Golden Gate Xpress Spring 2012 Issue 4

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// 02.15.12

6 VOLUME LXXXXII ISSUE 4

IF YOU COULD BUY

HAPPINESS A look into trendy spending speaks volumes about how learning to buy responsibly can lead to a satisfied life.

BY ANGELA RAIFORD | araiford@mail.sfsu.edu

ACTIVE: (From left) Will Nelson, Chris Torres, Kelly Corwin and Kaitlin Murphy meet during a stretch break of the Student Activism Course in HSS 201. The class is part of a resurgence in interest in the so-called Experimental College, first established in 1966. Photo by Sam Battles

A CLASH OVER CREDITS

BY ANGELA RAIFORD | araiford@mail.sfsu.edu

Will Nelson and Kelly Cor- The student-taught Experimental College Union and Third World Liberation Front in protest of win are not college teachers. claims to give units to its pupils, but a racial discrimination and lack They have long, sunny blonde lack of faculty could lead to its demise. of ethnic-centered curricuhair draping their shoulders; they wear tattered jeans and lum. However, despite the support of some faculty, the administration is not backing sneakers. However, every Wednesday night for two hours in HSS 201, these SF State students are teachers to roughly the college’s courses.

In order to get course credit for their class, Nelson and 20 students.

Corwin tell the students to fill out 699 independent study Nelson, 22, and Corwin, 25, teach a Student Activism petition forms, which require the signature of a faculty course, which explores social movements through commember. parative analysis, and for which some of the students are In an email sent Feb. 9 to deans of the six colleges, SF getting course credit.

State Provost Sue Rosser outlined the Experimental ColThe pair are working through the Experimental College, which was established in 1966 by the Black Student SEE COLLEGE ON PAGE 4

Money still can’t buy you love, but it might buy you happiness if you know where to spend it.

According to a recently-published study led

by Ryan T. Howell, assistant professor of psychology at SF State, spending money on experiences and not material possessions can lead to a more positive well-being.

“I’ve always been trying to figure out why people spend their money in certain types of ways,” Howell said. “From the research angle, we’re really trying to find out what motivates people to spend a certain way, in terms of where they are in certain situations, and how certain variables that we might not necessarily think connect, connect.”

The study, published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, analyzed data from more than 9,000 participants to explore the connection between material- and experience-based purchases versus overall life satisfaction. Would enjoying a nice dinner out with friends make someone happier than buying a new pair of shoes? In order to better predict consumer behavior, Howell and his research team developed the Experiential Buying Tendency Scale, which measures frequent experience-based purchasing, like dining or traveling.

Howell is now expanding on the elements of the study with his newest happiness endeavor, the website Beyond the Purchase.

The website, which he co-founded with Ravi Iyer, a graduate student in social psychology from the University of Southern California, and Tom Bowerman, project director at Policy SEE BUYER ON PAGE 2

MUSIC

Indie band goes back to basics STRIPPED-DOWN: Sean Sullivan (left), Kevin Sullivan (center), and Andrew SkewesCox, members of the band Rin Tin Tiger, at the Alley Cat bookstore, Feb. 9. The band was in the store for an indie band music event.

Photo by Hang Cheng

T

BY KIRSTIE HARUTA | kharuta@mail.sfsu.edu

HROUGH THEIR OWN INITIATIVE, THE ORGANIC, alternative-folk tunes of Rin Tin Tiger have reached listeners across the world. The band itself, however, has managed to keep its roots firmly planted in the Bay Area.

The dual act of the Sullivan brothers, Kevin, on guitar and vocals, and Sean, on bass and vocals, joined forces with drummer Andrew Skewes-Cox in 2010. They have performed as Rin Tin Tiger ever since, and have managed to stick to their stripped-down sounds and an indie approach to the music business.

“We all have a wide range of stuff that we listen to from hip-hop to clasSEE MOVES ON PAGE 9

02.15.12 | GOLDENGATEXPRESS.ORG

2 CAMPUS

SF SPEAKS OUT WHAT KIND OF PURCHASES MAKE YOU THE HAPPIEST AND WHY?

“I say music, like if when I purchase something on iTunes like a song or a good album. You can use that, versus clothes, I mean you can wear it; food, you can eat it right away; music, I mean you can listen as much as you want if it’s a good album.”

Buyer bliss: materials vs. experiences CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Interactive, a political marketing firm, launched Jan. 26. It works to not only question spending habits, but to provide tailored feedback to fit the current needs and desires of users. In contrast to Howell’s other studies, which drew upon volunteers that came into his lab, anyone with access to a computer will be able to be a part of the study. More engaging than a standard full-length questionnaire, the website hopes to get rid of the concern of people who begin to lose interest in studies because they don’t have the time or energy.

“It’d be interesting to see what kind of purchases are worth making and repeating because you know, through the questionnaires, certain types of things that are a good investment in happiness,” said Kenta Naoi, a visual communications major at SF State.

“I think it’s a very interesting website, and I think it would take people time to see the value in it, but I think it’s something that people will be willing to use.”

After considering the issue of keeping participants engaged taking standard print questionnaires, Howell moved the research online for his next study. He hopes to combat the struggle by taking a more personal approach. The online study will allow any person willing to participate a chance to sign up for the Beyond the Purchase website and both expand Howell’s research and learn more about themselves.

“A lot of the same questions are there, but it’s more of trying to have more of a person-centered approach as opposed to a variable-centered approach,” Howell said. “In many ways there’s a component of it that’s research-based, so you can learn a lot

about yourself from the surveys. It’s more about being able to give information back to specific people, as opposed to just talking in generality.”

A majority of the students in Howell’s personality and wellbeing lab at SF State are graduates working on their honors theses.

The website is basically like a class, in which students will be able to decide their own questions of research and access data from the website to find their answers. As a part of the lab, each graduate will be allowed to build upon the data in order to expand their knowledge of their own subjects of research interest.

“One of my students might look at impulse buying; another student looks at how people manage their money,” Howell said.

Kristopher Turner, a senior psychology major, was a member of the lab for three semesters. Turner recalls his time working in the lab as a very welcoming and friendly environment.

“I would have to say I am very much an experiential buyer,” said Turner, 22. “My interest of study during the lab was mostly regarding how one can spend their money in a way to increase their happiness. He has a great way of teaching and running a lab. He makes everyone feel like a part of a family.”

Howell admittedly favors buying experiences over material possessions himself, but has made his own recent material purchase an item that was useful for the whole family.

“My most recent material purchase that wasn’t a gift? We got a Le Cruset,” Howell said. “We got a dutch oven for the Howell household.”

MARCO NAVARRO

24, BROADCAST AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS MAJOR

“I think buying a good book for me it’s always a purchase that makes me really happy, that I’ve been wanting to get for awhile. And I feel like buying a book now is an important purchase too, like books have kind of become unimportant.”

JACLYN BURTON

21, ENGLISH EDUCATION MAJOR

Standards shift for finacial aid

S

IGNIFICANT CHANGES WILL BE COMing to financial aid and student loans next year including tougher GPA requirements and limited funding.

The new 2012-2013 budget proposal by Gov. Jerry Brown would increase the GPA requirements for the Cal Grant, a financial aid program administered by the State of California and the California Student Aid Commission.

The proposal would increase the Cal Grant A GPA requirement from a 3.0 to 3.25, the high school entitlement Cal Grant B GPA requirement of 2.0 to 2.75 and increase the Transfer Entitlement Cal Grant B GPA requirement from 2.4 to 2.75.

“The primary step is to protect the Cal Grant Program,” said Miles Nevin, executive director of California State Students Association. “We feel those essential Cal Grant programs need to be maintained.”

CSSA is an independent, non-profit student association that addresses issues affecting students within the California State University system at the statewide and system-wide level.

“It’s ridiculous because it’s another ploy by the state to cut down enrollment,” said Gwen Kelley, a double major in studio art and earth science. “It’s a suppression of the uneducated and preventing them from getting an education.”

Current students and those starting college in the fall will also be affected by changes being made to the Pell Grant. The government spending bill passed by Congress Dec. 17 places new

CRIME BLOTTER “I think buying material stuff for my passion, which is art, like spray cans for graffiti or markers for my pieces on my black book.”

MARK DEMESA

18, KINESIOLOGY MAJOR

REPORTING BY ANGELA RAIFORD PHOTOS BY HENRY NGUYEN

BY KRISSA STANTON | kstanton@mail.sfsu.edu

Erratic Housing Stroll

restrictions on those eligible for the Pell Grant, money provided to students by the federal government based on financial need.

Each full-time student who receives the grant will now only be eligible for funding for 12 semesters instead of the previous 18. However, the maximum award amount will be maintained at $5,550.

“With all these changes financial aid has just become a line item in the budget,” said Stephanie Thara, CSU spokeswoman.

Also, the previous six-month grace period on interest charged on federal student loans has been suspended and interest will begin accumulating immediately after a student graduates. These changes to financial aid will go into effect starting July.

The state legislative analyst’s office released a report last week on the Governor’s Higher Education Proposal for the 2012-2013 budget.

“We agree with several aspects of the Governor’s financial aid proposals, including the need to refine some eligibility criteria and to phase out some unproductive programs,” says the report.

“However, we believe some of the strengthened academic requirements, as well as reductions to Cal Grant awards for needy students at private institutions, would unreasonably harm access.”

According to Gov. Brown’s budget proposal, the GPA requirements “will focus limited financial aid resources on those students who are most likely to complete their degrees.”

It is estimated that 26,600 fewer students will make the cut for financial aid with the new requirements, saving the state $131 million.

02.08 through 02.14

Police received a call Feb. 10 about a suspicious man lurking around the Towers at Centennial Square, behaving very strangely. The fire department responded and determined that he was mentally altered. The man was transported to San Francisco General Hospital following the incident. If you see someone loitering suspiciously anywhere on campus, be sure to call University police.

High Tech Theft

A man reported the theft of his $3570 laptop from his home in Parkmerced Feb. 9. The police responded and filed a report, but the case was closed with no leads. Remember to lock your doors and put your property in a secure location when leaving it unattended, even in your own home.

Compiled by Cassie Becker

Life Threatening Danger

An officer spotted a man walking around campus the night of Feb. 9 near 19th Avenue with a knife.

When questioned, the man told the officer that he wanted to kill himself. He was immediately transported to San Francisco General Hospital for mental health detention. If you witness a person with any kind of weapon, do not hesitate to notify University police.

CAMPUS 3

| 02.15.12

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Ethnic studies prof recalls strike

H

BY BRIAN BALISI | bbalisi@mail.sfsu.edu

E CAN OVERWHELM YOUR BRAIN WITH endless amounts of information, but he would probably rather tell you a good joke straight from his unfiltered, fast-talking mouth.

Associate professor Dan Gonzales, who teaches Asian American and American Ideals and Institutions as well as Pilipinos in America: Problems of Transition, is currently awaiting the approval from for his promotion to full professor.

Gonzales came to SF State at the onset of the 1968 student-led strike, which fought for the establishment of the College of Ethnic Studies, the first of its kind to concentrate its curriculum on the history, culture and struggles of ethnic minorities.

“I was at a crossroads at that time,” Gonzales said. “I was making decent money at a good job, but I didn’t want to be someone who was stuck at a job they didn’t like for 20 to 30 years, and now I’m here.”

The strike, led by the Black Student Union and the Third World Liberation Front, lasted for five months and is still known as the longest campus strike in United States history.

“I’m all for the protesting and picketing, but I’m not a front line picketer so I’m not going to go out of my way to get arrested, man,” Gonzales said. “Some protestors today that resort to violence are just giving the ability, to the police, to shut them down.”

Gonzales likes to write creatively, but sparingly, work on music when he gets time and take pictures as a hobby. He spent a lot of time at the Kearny Street Workshop, the nation’s oldest Asian Pacific American multi-disciplinary arts organization, where he got to know many brilliant minds and artists from the Bay Area.

“These people, such as the poets and writers, they were the most influential in constructing the Asian American studies experience because they lived it,” Gonzales said. “Now, I liked writing and doing all that other stuff, but these people were better than me at everything so what are you going to do. My stuff took a backseat to theirs.”

Gonzales said he has no plans of slowing down, even after 43 years at the University.

Alex Fabros, Gonzales’s newly-discovered cousin, said Gonzales has a good heart and he loves to teach, there is no one better to teach Filipino history or Asian American struggles in the community. He also noted that Gonzales often mentors students and pushes them to learn.

“Other professors may skim the top of the water, but Dan will go below the surface of the water and discover facts you didn’t know about,” Fabros said.

“He is an important individual in the community and he has set the standard for research now.”

Richmond Gali, 21, kinesiology major, said he enjoyed his experience in Gonzales’s class.

“He was very informative about Filipino history and his sense of humor is a huge icebreaker, especially when the class gets quiet,” he said.

GOING STRONG: Dan Gonzales, a professor of Asian American studies, first started at the University in 1968, during Some of Gonzales’ biggest achievements are serving on the Academic Senthe student-led strike. He served in the Academic Senate when the ethnic studies curriculum was established. ate in 1978 and establishing the curriculum for ethnic studies, as well as helping Photo by Nelson Estrada put together a collection of stories from the founding members and current members of Asian American studies.

“Attribute my stubbornness, wonderful spouse and strong friendships to some of the Gonzales said he’s able to teach this long because he is always playing catch up, but reasons I keep teaching,” Gonzales said. “I have a love of learning and a fear of what the students are not much different from when he taught years ago; they still don’t like will happen if those of us who understand some of the real problems of the world stop to read. teaching about them.”

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Students revive college created in 1966 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

lege as inappropriate use of an independent study course. Rosser also reminded faculty members that students can’t teach courses without faculty present, nor determine final grades for other students.

“We created a course curriculum, a full syllabus and requirements. So it was very easy to get teachers to say, ‘Well this is obviously very well thought out,’” Nelson said. “Them signing off is them approving of your course so they shouldn’t sign off if they have questions or are hesitant.”

According to the policies for 699 independent study courses, students are to do intensive research under the supervision of their selected advisers. The Experimental College tells students seek out their own professors to sign off on the form. Prior to Rosser’s email, Nelson and Corwin had already garnered support from a professor, who was not present in the Feb. 8 class. This goes against university policy for independent study.

The college restarted in 2009 with help from Connell Persico and Roger Alvarado, two former SF State students who were involved in the ‘68 protest, and has since increased momentum due partly to the Occupy movement.

“It wasn’t very big for a long time until last semester when we decided to teach, and we’ve been working to resurrect it ever since,” said Nelson, a senior environmental studies major. “This semester, it’s actually fairly large.

We’re finding what really went on in these social movements, and how we can apply it to our situation here on campus or in San Francisco with the Occupy movement. It’s very comprehensive.”

SF State political science lecturer Kathy Emery knew about the Experimental College through students in the 2009 resurgence, and suggested the idea to teach an experimental class to Nelson and Corwin. She taught both HANDS UP: Students enrolled in the student-run Student Activism Course take a yoga and stretch break during their students in her Introduction to Critical Thought course in Spring 2011 and class. Administrators say classes taught by students cannot receive course credit. Photo by Sam Battles helped them understand how to use their own course curriculum to achieve their educational goals. said that the issue of students who have received credit for past courses would be dealt “I don’t understand why the administration would want to discourage with by the deans of each college. students from asking and answering their own questions, whether it is how to create a “I’m taking 19 units this semester so I’m just taking it for fun,” said Lauren Saintsustainable economy or how to be effective advocates for social justice,” Emery said.

Erne, 21, a geography major. “I took it for course credit last year.”

“Creating and implementing their own courses, with experienced advising, is the most Henry York, 23, a graduate student in political science, has been a part of the Experieffective way for students to learn how to think critically.” mental College since it restarted in 2009.

College of Arts and Humanities Dean Paul Sherwin first heard about the college In the college that year, he facilitated his own two-hour course with SF State art maJan. 20 and said he was unsure of how much involvement any one department had with jor Andrew Cardoza. Maintaining six or seven participants through the semester, they the Experimental College. Unaware of any faculty member of the College of Arts and focused on expanding world views and some students received course credit, according Humanities who had taken part, Sherwin said the use of the 699 form to receive credit to York. He believes that the continuation of the Experimental College is a testament to was not in accordance with established policies. the legitimacy of the college’s model.

“There are some variations of 699s, but typically they involve an individual student “It’s really cool to honor that history at SFSU, to resurrect it now in the face of a undertaking intensive investigation of a topic under the supervision of a faculty memnew challenge: the budget cuts,” said York. “We’re not getting the education that we ber,” Sherwin said. “In any event, the descriptions of the two ‘Experimental College’ deserve, so we’re making it happen for ourselves.” courses I have seen indicate that they are not in compliance with long-established The Experimental College’s ability to give course credit is in jeopardy, but the enpolicies at our University. Students are not teachers and they do not assign grades for joyment that comes from facilitating the course was apparent. courses, certainly not for credit-bearing courses.”

“I really enjoy this, as most of you can tell,” said Corwin during the closing remarks Despite a number of fliers posted throughout the campus about the Experimental of the second activism class. “I really enjoy learning and being in both roles.”

College, administrators seem to have only just found out about it. In an email, Rosser

E T A T S F S IN IH STORY

FEBRUARY 3, 1966: The SF State Experimental College opened in 1966 and involved between s

ive From ress arch p the X

150 and 200 students. Students developed the “college within a college” because they believed that college should be relevant to what is currently happening. SF State administrators and professors evaluated and assisted students during the college’s infancy.

At the time, students were able to choose from four areas of study. These areas included community involvement, artistic expression, psychological learning and conceptual focus.

SEPTEMBER 2, 2009: When the Experimental College was resurrected in 2009, there

were about 50 students in attendance. Although many of the students who attended were there to earn up to four units, others were interested in becoming activists and fighting budget cuts.

Researched by Tamerra Griffin & Carolyn Copeland

Student input wanted for new food venue

BY BRITTNEY BARSOTTI | bbarsott@mail.sfsu.edu

FOR RENT: An interior shot of West Plaza Alcove B, next to the Cesar Chavez Student Center, which was the home of Jesse’s Hot House. The empty space is now flanked by Carmelita’s La Petite and the newly opened hot dog restaurant Underdog.

Photo by Gil Riego Jr.

S

HEETS OF WHITE PAPER have been plastered in the windows of the vacant space between Carmelita’s La Petite and the Bookstore since summer 2011, but now the search for what type of food establishment will fill the void left by the former tenant, Jesse’s Hot House, is underway.

According to Travis Northup, chairman of the student center governing board, while the board gathers more data about what type of food current SF State students are looking for, the process of actually filling the space has been placed on hold.

“All of the data we have is outdated,” Northup said. “Right now we are going through the process to get the type of food that is what students want.”

The board is currently conducting surveys through OrgSync and the student center’s annual survey to ensure students have a voice before making a final decision on the type of food establishment that will fill the space.

According to Northup, the largest and only push to the vendor services committee has been for another soul food restaurant. Liberal arts major

Tachelle Herron, 31, has been working on a petition for a new soul food restaurant since November 2011, after she heard from several freshman that it was no longer available on campus.

“When you’re on campus all day, you get hungry,” Herron said. “And you need something that’s going to keep you full.”

The Black Student Union, along with several other student organizations including La Raza Student Organization, Students for Quality Education, Leadership Engagement Action Development, Educational Opportunity Program, Educational Opportunity Program Student Organization, Fashion Institution and Gator Gospel Choir, have been compiling a petition that has a little more than 200 signatures in favor of another soul food restaurant, according to Herron.

According to the student center’s Retail Commercial Services Manager Leonard Corpus, the student governing board should make the decision on what type of food vendor will occupy the space during their meeting in March where they will take the petition into consideration.

He hopes to have a new vendor in place by Fall 2012.

CITY 5

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A WEEKLY SEX COLUMN s THE NS & OUTS BY CASSIE BECKER

I

Talk dirty to me, baby

Using your words to put heat between your sheets can be sexy, but there are a few guidelines to making it fun for both of you.

record it, but it could add some amazing fuel to the fire and the anticipation. And if ’M GOING TO GET ON TOP OF YOU AND HOLD YOU DOWN, you’re running out of ideas, look up an erotic story online and take turns reading it to your wrists above your head and my mouth at your ear, whispering every each other. juicy little thing I love about what I’m doing to you. Do you like that?

DO pay attention to the tone of your voice and word choice. “People are drawn in Of course you do. Everyone loves a little dirty talk. by adjectives - juicy, wonderful, moist words to describe anything you are talking about.

“I think that’s considered some of the most dirty talk is when you just Use sensual words; this draws their attention to their body and their describe exactly what you’re going to do to somesenses,” Chey recommends. one or what you want to do to someone pertaining Since breaking up with her inner DON’T start without doing your background research. Nothing to a sexual act,” said physiology major Brianna prude, Cassie Becker has done it all. will kill the mood faster than talking about someone’s biggest turnWilliams, 21, a peer sexual health educator at SF State.

Her interest in sexual exploration offs and using language they don’t like. Not asking beforehand is no A lot of talking dirty boils down to pure creativity, but there has lead her to write several blogs excuse. are some clear DOs and DON’Ts on the subject, according to and break even more beds. She’s extensively researched and written DON’T only talk about what you like. If you’re talking dirty to dirty talk expert Chey of StefanosandChey.com, who teaches about it - all with a sexy smile. your partner, both parties need to be equally engaged and that’s not workshops on the subject: going to happen if it’s one-sided. No one wants to hear all about you.

DO get to know your partner. Ask what your partner likes DON’T overdo the repetition. Repeating a phrase like “I know and doesn’t like in terms of language usage and fantasies. If he you like that” can be sexy, but hearing it 30 times in a row is just gets turned on at the thought of being blown by a trucker, you plain annoying. If you’re out of fresh material, do something else with your mouth. have to know! Just knowing what to say already puts you in a great position to start.

Most importantly, DON’T take it too seriously! This is supposed to be fun for DO engage in storytelling. Giving blow-by-blow descriptions of what your partner everyone involved so DO have fun with it. Get creative. Make threats or promises, ask is about to experience is what talking dirty is all about! But don’t be afraid to tell them explicit questions, use different languages or just experiment. It’s up to you. their most outlandish and dirty fantasy in explicit detail, either: You both know you’re And remember: Practice makes perfect. not going to be surrounded by hookers and forced to have sex in the middle while they

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6

4

KNOW THE LAW

GET TO KNOW YOUR TENANTS’ RIGHTS HOW MUCH SHOULD MY DEPOSIT BE?: Landlords don’t get to decide how much to charge you for a security deposit.

Deposits are capped at the equivalent of two months rent for an unfurnished apartment, and up to three months rent if the unit comes furnished.

If your landlord is trying to charge you more, call them on it, but also beware that it could be a sign of shadiness in the future.

WHEN CAN A LANDLORD COME INTO MY APARTMENT?:

Just because your landlord owns the building doesn’t mean he can traipse into your apartment anytime he wants to.

Unless there is an emergency, landlords must provide at least 24 hours notice if they plan to enter your residence.

DO I NEED A NEW LEASE WHEN MY CURRENT ONE RUNS OUT?:

Unless it is specified in the original lease, you don’t have to move to another apartment when your original lease runs out. When the term of your original lease is up (most are one-year agreements) your tenancy becomes a month-to-month arrangement with the same terms as stipulated in the original agreement.

CAN I SUBLET MY APARTMENT?:

You cannot be evicted for subletting your apartment unless it is specifically prohibited in the original lease. Many landlords do include these prohibitions, so read your lease carefully if you think you might be subletting in the future.

DO I HAVE TO BE COLD IN WINTER?:

Your landlord is required to provide adequate heat for the unit, which means you’re entitled to a balmy 68 degrees in any of the habitable rooms.

your

GUIDE to HOUSING GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR

Finding an apartment in San Francisco is difficult; being a college student doesn’t make it any easier. The limited number of available units in this city creates competition and being a student doesn’t exactly get your application to the top of the pile.

Here are some tips that will help you land your dream pad: KNOW WHAT YOU NEED Take a look at a standard rental application on the web. Make sure you have all the information that you will need to fill it out completely. Having to go back and dig through your records to find the address of your previous landlord can eat up valuable time and when you do find it, someone else might already be moving in.

Entrance from street

BRING ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS TO THE SHOWING This includes a driver’s license, your references, a credit report and pay stubs or student loan/financial aid verification. A landlord will require all of these things, and bringing your own credit report may get you out of paying application fees, which can run between $30 and $50.

LOOK THE PART Landlords want to rent to someone responsible, and writing “student” in the occupation box on the application doesn’t exactly scream responsibility.

Leave your ripped-up jeans and flip-flops at home and dress like someone that you would want to rent out an apartment.

PRACTICE FULL DISCLOSURE If you have had housing problems in the past, tell your soon-to-be landlord about it. They are going to call your references anyway, and honesty can earn you bonus points.

GET A CO-SIGNER If you have bad/no credit or don’t have a ton of verifiable income, don’t be afraid to get a co-signer.

There’s no shame in asking mom or dad to sign off on your new place.

MAKE AN IMPRESSION Apartment showings can often be crowded affairs.

Don’t be just another face in the crowd. Seek out the landlord and start a conversation. Ask about the history of the building, or the neighborhood, or the other people living in the building. Try to make the landlord remember who you are, so that when they are reviewing applications, yours will stand out.

FOLLOW UP A few days after you’ve turned in your application, give the landlord a call to see if there has been any progress. Even if no decision has been made, it never hurts to develop a rapport with a landlord.

USE THE SHOTGUN APPROACH Don’t apply for just one spot, assuming you will get it. Cast your net far and wide, applying for numerous places in case your first choice doesn’t come through.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE EVICTED If the worst happens and you end up on the wrong side of an unlawful eviction, don’t panic. Tenants have more rights in San Francisco than in many other cities and there are numerous agencies that are available for help.

COMPILED BY KALE WILLIAMS | kale@mail.sfsu.edu

BY KALE WILLIAMS | kale@mail.sfsu.edu

WHAT DOES MY LANDLORD HAVE TO FIX?: Landlords are required to do routine maintenance to keep the unit habitable.

Dire problems, like a sewer backup or heat outage, should be fixed within one or two days. Other problems may take as long as a month to fix. Make sure you record and keep all correspondence between you and your landlord. If the problem persists beyond a month, it’s probably time to call the building inspector.

BY KALE WILLIAMS | kale@mail.sfsu.edu

WATER IN THE WIRING: A HOUSING HORROR STORY

M

BY LISA CARMACK | lcarmack@mail.sfsu.edu

ORGAN SHINGLING KNEW SHE HAD A BIG problem on her hands when her apartment on the first floor of a two-story building started leaking from the ceiling the Saturday before classes started at SF State.

"It just started with a leak," said Shingling, a sophomore sociology major. "It was coming down through the light fixtures in our house. So the fluorescents filled (with water) and then slowly it just started

spreading."

In fear that the water in the wiring of the light fixtures and throughout the apartment would short and cause damage to the circuit breakers, Shingling called the fire department; they told her she and her roommates should leave the apartment immediately.

"They were going to have to strip the place down to the drywall to get all the mold out and mildew," said Shingling.

What she and her roommates didn't know was that this was the fourth time

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7

GOLDENGATEXPRESS.ORG

TIPS : NAVIGATING CRAIGSLIST TO FIND AN APARTMENT

Emergency Exit no. 1

Assumed north

FIGURE OUT YOUR NON-NEGOTIABLES: Before you even open your internet browser, make a note of things you are not willing to compromise on your search for a new apartment. The longer this list, the more challenging it will be to find exactly what you are looking for -- try and keep it as streamlined as possible. Some factors you might consider: • Price • Location • Length of lease • Living arrangement: who your roommates are, how many there are • Access to public transit or availability of parking • Landlord’s expectations: limitations on pets, visitors, noise levels ROOMS/SHARES: Where you would look if you are trying to find a room for rent in a house that already has people living in it or in any other kind of shared housing situation SUBLETS & TEMPORARY: If you’re looking for a short-term lease or sublet, this group of listings will probably be your best bet. Even if you’re looking for a six-month lease, it’s worth your time to look in this section.

Exit

to garage

HOUSING WANTED: Where you can post an ad about yourself and what you are looking for in a new apartment for people who have housing or rooms available.

BE WARY OF SCAMS: If you familiarize yourself with what a scam looks like, you are less likely to fall victim to one. Here are a few tell-tale signs that you are dealing with someone less-than-legitimate. The person who posted the ad: • Says he or she is out of the country or not available to meet in person • Asks you to wire money • Says that any transactions you make or money you pay is guaranteed by Craigslist • Asks you to provide financial information like your bank account number or social security number over the Internet • Asks you to drive by the apartment or house rather than meeting you to show you the interior • Asks for a background check or credit check without meeting in person first BROWSE LISTINGS BY CITY OR REGION: Apartments or houses with “SF Bay Area” listed as the neighborhood are oftentimes fake or scams, so be careful.

Emergency Exit no. 2

IF IT LOOKS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS: Apartments or houses that are seriously underpriced for what they offer are usually scams. Generally speaking, you are not going to find a garden cottage in downtown San Francisco with a yard and a picket fence for $700 dollars a month.

COMPILED BY SARA DONCHEY | sdonchey@mail.sfsu.edu

WHEN YOU GET THE FIRST EVICTION NOTICE The first action you take should be to ask yourself “Do I deserve to get evicted?” If you haven’t paid your rent, frequently host of all-night dubstep dance parties or cook illicit substances in your bathtub, you probably deserve to get the boot. If you feel that your eviction is unlawful, your next step should be to contact a lawyer or one of the numerous agencies that specializes in tenant disputes.

The notice will give you a period of time to respond; three days for correctable infractions, 30 days for tenants of less than a year or 60 days if you’ve been there longer.

You will want to start rigorously documenting all correspondence between you and your landlord. Take pictures of any disputed damage to the unit, talk to other tenants in your building and contact a lawyer. Gather any evidence that might bolster your case if you end up in court.

WHEN YOU GET A SECOND NOTICE Once the period noted on your first notice expires, you will receive a second notice that must be responded to within five days.

Failure to do so will result in automatic forfeiture of your case and there will be a sheriff at your door within five days.

The answer to the second notice must adhere to strict legal criteria.

Evicting someone is a long and complicated process, but there are organizations that specialize in evictions, and they exist solely to help people in your position. If you can’t afford your own property lawyer, contact the San Francisco Rent Board, San Francisco Tenant’s Union or the Eviction Defense Collaborative.

SETTLEMENT HEARING Once you respond to the second notice, you will be scheduled for a settlement hearing before a judge. This gives both parties the opportunity to settle without having to go through a jury trial.

JURY TRIAL The trial should be pretty straightforward.

Both sides present their cases and any evidence that backs them up. A jury then decides who wins. If you win, you get to stay. If you lose, the sheriff will post a five-day “notice to vacate” and it’s time to get a moving truck.

Unless you have overwhelming evidence in your favor, this is probably your best bet. A jury trail is likely to be a long process and lawyers aren’t cheap.

The whole process, from the first notice to the sheriff’s knock on your door can take between four and eight weeks, or even longer if you have a strong case.

Source: San Francisco Tenants Union http://www.sftu.org/eviction.html

the roof of her apartment building had leaked and been repaired by unlicensed workers hired by their landlord, who denied any accountability for the damage.

"I think because students can come from all over California or all over the country, they aren't necessarily familiar with their rights specifically in San Francisco, and they may or may not be in their own housing for the first time," said San Francisco Rent Board Supervisor Jennifer Rakowski.

The San Francisco Rent Board fields calls from confused tenants every weekday explaining basic tenant's rights. Damage to the rented unit can be delegated in a few ways, but Rakowski said there's one basic question to answer before taking action.

"Anyone renting in San Francisco should know whether the unit they're renting is subject to the rent control. Knowing whether you have a rent control unit versus a non-rent controlled unit is the key starting

point," said Rakowski. "Your rights and avenues flow from there."

In the event of a flood, if the landlord doesn't address the issue in a timely manner, the tenant can ask for a judgment in small claims court that reduces their rent for the time the tenant is living under those conditions, Rakowski said.

"I contacted the rent board and they were really helpful," said Shingling's roommate Amelia Shelton, a sophomore political science major at SF State. "They told me everything that I’m entitled to because he broke the lease for failing to provide a living situation until the time we agreed."

Shelton is compiling a list of costs to serve her landlord, including the damaged furniture, storage space where she and her roommates had to move their possessions and the bill for the hotel she's been staying for two weeks, amounting to around $2000. If her

landlord disputes these costs, the case will be taken to small claims court, where the law favors the tenant.

As for the smaller complaints about pervasive mold in the building, which undoubtedly appeared after the first several times the roof leaked, there's little more they can do than file a complaint for public record.

"I was a little disappointed," said Shelton. "He can patch it up, but there's nothing we can do about it.

We could get the building condemned if we took it to court, but we're just a bunch of college students."

With limited resources, it's unlikely that anything more than minor compensation will come out of this debacle for Shingling and Shelton.

"You want to believe that your landlord is going to do what they're supposed to do," said Shelton. "He has to sign the list of costs when he gets it and if he doesn't, there will be legal action."

02.15.12 | GOLDENGATEXPRESS.ORG

8 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Actors turn producers

BY DEVERY SHEFFER | dsheffer@mail.sfsu.edu

JAPANTOWN Though it only consists of six square blocks, Japantown packs in a bevy of pan-Asian cuisine offerings. Its nuanced food scene reflects a deeply embedded culture that’s influenced by its everchanging demographic. Even through countless makeovers over the years, Japantown’s cultural and culinary identity still remain intact.

SWEET TOOTH

BELLY GOOD CAFE & CREPES

HINT: This little cafe definitely does the belly good. With a broad range of ice cream flavors and fruit fillings, you can pick and pair to your heart’s content. Nothing beats their green tea ice cream with apricot jelly wrapped together in one irresistible crepe.

1737 Post St.

CHEAP EATS

CINEMA CAFE

HINT: This cafe specializes in serving light and portable snacks you can take on the go.

Located inside New People, the neighborhood’s go-to spot for food, art, fashion and film, it’s difficult to pass up their Japanese gourmet rice balls. Flavors range from Hijiki (seaweed) to Ume (plum), but it’s their spicy shrimp rice ball that takes the cake.

1746 Post St.

ROMANTIC

MUMS

HINT: Located inside Hotel Tomo, this contemporary Japanese restaurant sports an elegant design and specializes in an East meets West type of cuisine. Their most notable dish, the shabu shabu - thinly sliced meat and vegetables cooked at your table - is served with a selection of homemade dipping sauces.

1800 Sutter St.

WILDCARD

PLAYGROUND

HINT: If karaoke is your thing, this is the spot for experiencing nightlife in Japantown. This fullservice restaurant and bar also offers a menu of authentic Korean cuisine. If the food doesn’t pull you in, the laid-back ambience and music will.

1705 Buchanan St.

AN XPRESS GUIDE TO DINING IN THE CITY. COMPILED BY EAST BAY DWELLER AND VORACIOUS FOODIE MATT MAXION, WHO ENJOYS WRITING ABOUT THE BAY AREA FOOD SCENE. HE IS ALSO THE SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR FOR GOLDEN GATE XPRESS.

Commitment, hard work and friendship are three elements that helped one SF State student and two alumni create and maintain their own theater company one year ago, Do It Live! Productions.

It was more than four years ago, in Fall 2007, when three SF State freshmen met in the school’s production of “Troy: The Gates of Hell.” Little did they know they would spend the rest of their college years directing and acting in school plays together.

William Hand, 22, plans to graduate from SF State this May with a degree in theater arts. He recalls what it was like on the set of that first play when he met the other two co-founders, Kenny Toll, 23, and Shay Wisniewski, 23, who both graduated from SF State in 2011.

“It was a load of fun. It got us integrated into the department pretty quickly, but mostly it it brought three freshmen together,” Hand said.

Starting their own theater company wasn’t easy; none of them had much experience running a business before, but it was the skills they learned at SF State that helped get their momentum

going. In particular, the Brown Bag Theater Company, a class at SF State where theater students work together to direct, act and produce hour long plays to show during lunch hours.

“Doing Brown Bag really teaches you how to produce,” Toll said. “You go in and you can be a writer and a director and you have access to everything in the department.”

This fall, they will end their season with a play they originally performed for Brown Bag Theater their junior year called “The Crimson Hotel.” The desire to do this play again was one of the main reasons they started the company.

“It was very successful, and we really loved the show and we really wished we could expand the show and make it bigger than what is was,” Wisniewski said.

Since they started the theater company a year ago they have produced and profited from two full-length plays, “King Henry VI” and “Bad Hamlet.”

Ben Landmesser, 23, studied theatre at SF State through Open University in 2008 through 2009. He did multiple

Sidewalk sonnets

plays, including Brown Bag productions, with the three co-founders, which led him to be cast in both of their plays.

“They have a lot of big projects they want to do, they dream big and they might not know how to pull it off, but they just figure it out as they go,” Landmesser said.

This year they will be starting off their season March 13 with a murdermystery piece entitled “Suicide in B Flat” which will be showing at the Boxcar Theatre on Hyde Street.

The company is still young, so for now they are accomplishing one goal at a time.

“That first goal was to create a theatre company that can exist as a small business, which was the thing we had absolutely no idea how to do, and now we are slowly becoming experts of it,” said Hand. “The goal for us in the upcoming year is to connect with what we learned at school, which is to produce good, honest work that’s dangerous and deadly and that holds itself up to a standard that we feel kicks the crap out of theatre as we know it.”

BY HUNTER MULICH | hunter@mail.sfsu.edu

On a rainy night, fewer than a dozen people huddle under umbrellas outside the 16th and Mission Street BART station. Bottles of wine and whiskey are passed around while anything from a solemn poem about a passed away Grandpa, to spitfire raps about guns and murder are expressed. Everyone gets snaps and claps.

In the world of literature, poetry is hailed for its free form. But every Thursday, a fluctuating group of rappers, wordsmiths – anyone really – comes out to the station to test those boundaries.

The Poetry Slam, as it’s affectionately referred to, is a forum open to poets of any type.

There is no venue, no sign-up sheet and no rules. However, there are loyal followers who make this event happen, rain or shine.

“When I first came here and sat down I loved it. I didn’t know it wasn’t a one-time thing,” said Brandon Loberg, a weekly regular at the event who runs a website devoted to the SLAMMING: Bonnie Nobile reads a poem to an attentive group outside the 16th and Mission Street slam. “I kept coming back like a junkie to the BART station during Poetry Slam. They gather every Thursday night to express themselves through needle.” spoken word. Photo by Andrew Lopez Loberg can be dubbed as one of the unofficial leaders of the slam, but is modest about the “Every week is different and has its own flavor,” said Stellar title. He manages a website bearing the event’s name and image, Cassidy, a creative writing major at University of San Francisco and has to tone down and set the mood from time to time, but the who is familiar with the history of the event. “You can’t go with show is overwhelmingly democratically run. any expectations because you never known what’s gonna hapThere is no sign in, no agenda and no wait lists. Anyone who pen.” is ready jumps in the middle of the sometimes artfully, sometimes The crowd’s participation and the weather will effect the mood haphazardly chalked circle drawn outside the station - and lets of the night, according to Cassidy, who said that rain makes the loose. circle especially intimate.

This guerilla art event has been running for about eight years.

A sunny summer day, Loberg said, can attract as many as 200 Its roots were planted in 2004 when four students of the nowpeople that night.

The crowd fluctuates, of course, between burrito defunct art school New College of California needed a venue to and bottle runs to nearby liquor stores and taquerias. No matperform their live talents. After burning out their welcome in a ter what the scene, the one constant seems to be a community of friend’s living room and a few coffee shops, the group decided to open-minded poets who want to express themselves and grow. take it to the streets.

“It allows a person to express themselves in an unrestrained From there it exploded. More people came each week, and fashion,” said Mike Walshner, a San Francisco resident who has it eventually became a weekly sermon. The crowd evolves from been attending the slam a couple times each month for the last time to time. Hippies, crust punks, out-of-towners, bar hoppers, year.

“There are no judgements here, everything is accepted. It’s folk rockers and brown-baggers all graze the scene from time to just positivity and fun.” time.

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COMMUNITY ART WALK FRIDAY, FEB. 17 6 P.M. - 9 P.M 9TH AND IRVING STREETS

DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION PARTY FRIDAY, FEB. 17 9 P.M. FREE 518 VALENCIA STREET

FITNESS FAIR AND CLASSES SATURDAY, FEB. 18 11 A.M. - 3P.M. FREE WARREN HELLMAN MEMORIAL CONCERT SUNDAY, FEB. 19 11 A.M. FREE GOLDEN GATE PARK

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT 9

Vintage moves, new tunes CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Kevin’s songwriting,” said Sean. “And we just throw a lot of rhythm on it, but it’s still pretty stripped back.”

Students may have caught Rin Tin Tiger performing on campus last semester. Sean, a 2011 graduate of the SF State creative writing program, said that the band enjoys sticking close by. They have close ties to The Depot and with fellow musicians here like broadcast and electronic communications major Derek Schultz of the band Owl Paws.

“They’re a new take on folk with a classic sound, new energy and really good lyrics,” said Schultz, who has shared the stage and recorded with Rin Tin Tiger. “They have a great energy and it definitely comes through in their music.”

But Rin Tin Tiger isn’t just bringing that energy to local stages.

While the band guarantees that their best shows take place at Bottom of the Hill, they said they’ve been the most successful in getting their music out through good old-fashioned busking.

“We, hands down, sell more CDs playing on the street than at shows or on iTunes, or anything,” said Sean. “It’s the street hustle.

People love it.”

Through playing on the streets, usually at Powell and Market streets during the spring and summer months, the band has gained a wider audience than internet presence alone ever could have achieved.

“We’ve sold CDs to people in Denmark and France and Spain and England and Germany,” said Sean. “Probably one of the coolest things that happened was we were playing on the street near the BUSKING: (From left) Sean Sullivan, Kevin Sullivan and Andrew Skewes-Cox, also known as Rin Tin Tiger, perform at local mall and someone bought a CD, and then they gave it to their friend venues, but say they sell more CDs during street performances than all other methods. Photo courtesy of Jacklyn Snook in Alabama, who’s like a DJ, and now they play one of our songs on Alabama public radio, which plays across the whole state.” release a brand new, eight song recording.

While the band knows that Facebook and iTunes are helpful tools for indie artists Recently completed at the Tiny Telephone studio, this new release was recorded like themselves, they also know that nothing beats persistence and real-life interaction. completely live to two-inch tape, without the use of editing software. This reflects the “(Sean is) great at pestering people and being shameless,” said Kevin, in reference band’s personal preference for live, raw, classic albums. to how the band landed a Noise Pop gig last year opening for Max Bemis.

“It’s something we’ve all sort of romanticized about being able to record on a tape Some of their best opportunities have come through performing at Bottom of the machine,” said Sean. “When you’re in a room with a computer, there’s all this temptaHill, where they have formed a solid relationship with Ramona Downey, who is in tion to look at things, to look at files, to pull other things up, to get super into it. When charge of booking the talent for the venue. you’re with a (tape) machine, all you have is, you wait for it to rewind. And that’s all “We liked them so much, they became a main supporting act,” said Downey. “They you hear, just music and tape noise.” are so good on those alternative-rock bills.”

The band has the release date for their new recording set tentatively for this summer.

It’s Sean’s initiative that gets them on those bills, which tend to draw impressive Fans can visit their Kickstarter page to help fund the release, get updates on the recordcrowds who stick around and stay enthusiastic for all the acts. ing process and pre-order the new recording.

“Sean is one of those people who must check our website daily,” said Downey.

“We’re kind of inviting fans to come along with us on the journey of recording “He’s very proactive. It’s doing half of my work for me!” through these exclusive updates on the Kickstarter,” said Sean.

This persistence has paid off. With 2011 Noise Pop, 2010 Left Coast Live, an EP Next up for Rin Tin Tin Tiger is a live show Saturday, Feb. 18 at Art Boutiki in San and several Bay Area appearances under their belt, Rin Tin Tiger is getting ready to Jose.

02.15.12 | GOLDENGATEXPRESS.ORG

10 O P I N I O N

Raise your rental standard KELLY GOFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF kgoff@mail.sfsu.edu

SARA DONCHEY

ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR sdonchey@mail.sfsu.edu

SCOTT GRAF

PRINT MANAGING EDITOR sgraf99@mail.sfsu.edu

GODOFREDO VASQUEZ

MEDIA EDITOR gvasquez@mail.sfsu.edu

NATALIE YEMENIDJIAN ART DIRECTOR nataliey@mail.sfsu.edu

MICHELLE OLSON

ONLINE COPY CHIEF maolson@mail.sfsu.edu

CASSIE BECKER

PRINT COPY CHIEF cassbeck@mail.sfsu.edu

TAMERRA GRIFFIN

CAMPUS EDITOR tgriffin@mail.sfsu.edu

LISA CARMACK

CITY EDITOR lcarmack@mail.sfsu.edu

HUNTER MULICH

A&E EDITOR hunter@mail.sfsu.edu

KC CROWELL

OPINION EDITOR kcrowell@mail.sfsu.edu

KEALAN CRONIN

SPORTS EDITOR kealancronin@mail.sfsu.edu

KRISSA STANTON

BREAKING NEWS EDITOR kstanton@mail.sfsu.edu

HENRY NGUYEN

PRINT PHOTO EDITOR nenhenry@mail.sfsu.edu

GIL RIEGO JR.

ONLINE PHOTO EDITOR griegojr@mail.sfsu.edu

JUAN DE ANDA

ASSISTANT CAMPUS EDITOR juand@mail.sfsu.edu

ELISSA TORRES

Housing in San Francisco can be a nightmare, but that doesn’t seem to stop many apartment seekers from rushing into lessthan-ideal situations. From tyrannical landlords to sociopathic roommates, everyone has a tale.

In a city as small and densely populated as ours, there is a real pressure created to jump into the first available opening.

This is a damaging attitude that has no place in the decisionmaking process surrounding something as important as housing.

Of course, approaching any living situation in San Francisco is going to be challenging, so you’ve got to come prepared not to be a victim. By just being your own advocate you can avoid getting wrapped up in your own housing horror story.

For new renters who are just beginning to take hold of the responsibility of living independently, there is no reason anyone should unknowingly end up in a bad situation. By using some basic common sense, as well as the numerous resources available to San Francisco renters, it is easy to set yourself up for a rewarding living situation.

It can be tempting to rush into things.

Apartments go fast in this city, and the ones that are open attract crowds of qualified applicants. That said, it is important to ask yourself what is worth compromising on or sacrificing when changing your housing situation. This is especially true when approaching the nearly inevitable situation of living with roommates. Moving in with people who have different interests or beliefs is one thing; but if you’re a vegan who knowingly moves into a household full of butchers, you only have yourself to blame.

Make a list of specific questions to ask of your potential roommates. Rank them in

ART BY SARA DONCHEY | sdonchey@mail.sfsu.edu order of what to live in? Do I want a is most to least quiet haven or a social important for hotspot? you. For example, if you can’t stand cigarette 2. How am I going to communicate with smoke, one of the first questions you should people like my roommate(s) and landlord? ask should pertain to your roommate’s smok3. How long do I see myself living here? ing habits. If you don’t like pets but don’t 4. How much do I value traits like cleanmind if your household includes one, that liness and organization? question should be lower on the list. Being 5. What kind of relationship do I want specific is imperative. with my roommates? Is it important that you Even if you aren’t moving in with other be close friends with these people, or are you people, you have to treat moving like starting just sharing a space with them? a relationship. It is a relationship with your When you answer these questions, take landlord, a relationship with the physical them seriously. They will have a real impact space you’ll be occupying and a relationship on your happiness. with your happiness as long as you’re there.

In the end, it is not only beneficial for you Here are five questions you should ask to take control of your housing situation, but yourself when embarking on that new relait is your responsibility. Yes, it might mean tionship: that the search for housing takes longer and is 1. What kind of household do I want more difficult. It’s worth it.

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR elissat@mail.sfsu.edu

MATT MAXION

SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR mmaxion@mail.sfsu.edu

RACHELE KANIGEL

FACULTY ADVISER kanigel@mail.sfsu.edu

KEN KOBRE

PHOTO ADVISER kobre@kenkobre.com

JUSTIN OROZCO

CIRCULATION jaorozo@mail.sfsu.edu

ARUN UNNIKRASHNAN I.T. CONSULTANT arun@mail.sfsu.edu

EVA CHARLES

ADVERTISING & BUSINESS echarles@mail.sfsu.edu

MONICA QUESADA

PRODUCTION ggxads@mail.sfsu.edu

WRITE US A LETTER The Golden Gate Xpress accepts letters no longer than 200 words.

Letters are subject to editing. Send letters to KC Crowell at: opinion@ goldengatexpress.org

ABOUT XPRESS The Golden Gate Xpress is a student-produced publication of the journalism department at San Francisco State University.

For more information or comments, please contact Kelly Goff at: editor@ goldengatexpress.org

Black history should be celebrated year-round

E

BY CAROLYN COPELAND | carolync@mail.sfsu.edu

ACH YEAR, PEOPLE AROUND THE nation anxiously wait for February to roll around to celebrate the triumphs in black history. For this one month, stores across America advertise Black History Month sales, the History Channel runs dozens of specials about the Civil Rights Movement and teachers gear class discussions toward the topic of significant African-American

figures.

Although it is crucial to educate people everywhere about the importance of black history, we don’t need to designate just one month to acknowledge it anymore. Not only have we separated black history from U.S. history, but this month is often used as an excuse to ignore important black figures the rest of the year. Separating black history from American history also discredits the many contributions AfricanAmericans have made to our country.

A recent article by Shane Wade in the Commonwealth Times said, “It is nonsense to devote a separate month to a conjoined history. The best method of teaching history is to teach it as a chronological, inclusive story. Not as segmented parts divisible for monthly discussion.”

Slavery and the fight for civil rights are two of the most vital aspects of U.S. history. During these struggles, African Americans contributed greatly to business and the economy. Relegating one month out of the year to acknowledge this undermines this fact and redivides

CORRECTIONS FOR XPRESS PRINT EDITION

the nation.

Carter G. Woodson, a black historian, established Negro History Week in 1926 as a way to bring hope and self-worth to AfricanAmericans during their struggle for equality. It wasn’t until 1976 that this celebration was expanded and renamed as Black History Month.

Today, however, Black History Month is not as effective as it once was. Using February to celebrate black history may be more important for those who were alive during the Jim Crow era, but there is now a generation gap.

Although the proposal to end Black History Month will likely offend those who have lived through segregation, African-Americans may benefit from its demise. Since the U.S. is known as a land of diversity, it is crucial to recognize the struggles each race has gone through. Having a Black History Month does not integrate the U.S.’s complete cultural history.

Actor Morgan Freeman has pushed to eliminate Black History Month for years, claiming that it only encourages racism. He says that in order to beat racism, we need to simply “stop talking about it” and avoid identifying people as “black” and “white.”

There is no longer a need to have one month dedicated to any particular race. The role black history has played in America is far too monumental to be watered down 11 months out of the year. Since each nationality has in some way played a significant role in our society, they deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated equally.

The story headlined “Biblical turncoat goes to player’s court” on page 6 of the 2.01.12 issue incorrectly described the book “The Gospel of Judas” as an agnostic text. It is a Gnostic text.

The story headlined “Rain overwhelms city sewage system” on page 4 of the 2.08.12 issue misidentified Jean Walsh. Walsh is the spokeswoman for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.

We regret our errors.

S P O R T S 11

| 02.15.12

GOLDENGATEXPRESS.ORG

PLAYER

LUISA MUSIKA

WEEK

TRACK AND FIELD

of the

Senior Luisa Musika of the women’s track and field team has been chosen as the Xpress Player of the Week. Musika placed 16 in the weight throw competition and top five in the shot put at the Flotrack Husky Classic Saturday. Her performance in shot put led Musika to beat her indoor school record by more than two feet and hit the NCAA Division II indoor provisional qualifying mark for nationals.

PHOTO BY TYLER DENISTON/SF STATE SPORTS

GATORS’ SPORTS SCHEDULE

Team progresses against the odds

SCORES FROM THE LAST WEEK OF GATOR SPORTS

BY SEAN DUFFY | scduffy@mail.sfsu.edu

THURSDAY, FEB. 16 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL SF State vs.

Humboldt State University at 5:30 p.m. (San Francisco, Calif.)

MEN’S BASKETBALL SF State vs.

Humboldt State University at 7:30 p.m. (San Francisco, Calif.)

FRIDAY, FEB. 17 BASEBALL SF State vs. CSU Dominguez Hills at 1 p.m. (Carson, Calif.)

SOFTBALL SF State vs.

Cal State San Bernardino at 12 p.m. (San Bernardino, Calif.)

SATURDAY, FEB. 18 BASEBALL SF State vs. CSU Dominguez Hills at 11 a.m. (Carson, Calif.)

SOFTBALL SF State vs.

Cal State San Bernardino at 11 a.m. (San Bernardino, Calif.)

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL SF State vs. Sonoma State University at 5:30 p.m. (San Francisco, Calif.)

MEN’S BASKETBALL SF State vs. Sonoma State University at 7:30 p.m. (San Francisco, Calif.)

SUNDAY, FEB. 19 BASEBALL SF State vs. CSU Dominguez Hills at 11 a.m. (Carson, Calif.)

For a team largely overlooked in recent work out with her and follow her; you know she’s years by coaches and opposing schools alike, the going to be doing big things.” women’s track and field team has quickly become a The team had three other girls achieve provileader in Division II. sional qualifications during the same meet. Meagan Despite limited funding, head coach Terry Moiola, 21, finished fifth in the high jump, and Burke has the group participating at higher levels teammate Tiana Wills finished ninth, placing them of competition. The team has proven diligent this in the top two for the event in school history. season as several athletes have broken records and Senior Luisa Musika, 21, also earned a provisional achieved the possibility of attending the national qualification in the weight throw, achieving a perchampionships. sonal best of 57 feet, 3 inches.

The team is working with minimal scholarship “Luisa broke her own school record,” Thomas funding. The few athletes who do receive scholarsaid. “Luisa Musika is an amazing athlete, I look ship money get anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, up to her every day.” which is far below the California Collegiate AthThe women’s track and field team has greatly letic Association’s average. Cal State Los Angeles improved over the last decade due to the commithas about 10 full scholarships up to $10,000 each ment shown by the coaching staff, evident in this for their women’s track season’s achievements. and field team.

Burke said when he “We have (scholarcame to SF State, it was ship money) spread out a struggle to give the over 12 or 13 people. program the attention it Typically schools in our desperately needed, but conference have 20 to had rarely been given 30 people on scholarfrom previous coaches. ship,” Burke said.

“We had a men’s “We’re toward the botteam, and one of the tom of the conference coaches that was here in terms of scholarship in the ‘90s put all of his (money).” energy into the men’s In addition to a team and the women’s limited scholarship budteam was just kind of get, SF State does not an adjunct,” Burke said. have an indoor track.

“The team didn’t get the Competing primarily level of coaching supin out-of-state events port it needed.” proves taxing over the Burke recalls that course of a season for when the current class the student athletes. of seniors, Thomas, Despite all this, the GaMoiola, Musika and tors have risen to the 19 Alicia Chambers, came spot in the most recent to SF State as freshUnited States Track and men four years ago the Field and Cross Counteam was at an all-time try Coaches Association low. As the season Division II rankings, comes to a close and the earning multiple proviseniors move on, Burke sional qualifying marks acknowledges the in the process. This is importance of restockno small feat for a team ing talent and finding that failed to send a recruits to maintain the single athlete to nationteam’s success. als in recent years, but “SF State had years will potentially send and years of bad teams, GOING THE DISTANCE: Maya Cabiness warms up at track five this season. some talented people In the Gators’ recent and field practice. She completes the 4x400 relay team that but not good teams,” recently placed fifth at the Flotrack Husky Classic and hopes to Burke said. “The girls trip to the New Mexico Classic, Keenya Mcwho came in fall 2008 attend nationals. Photo by Jeff Sandstoe/Special to Xpress Daniel, a 19-year-old are really the core of sophomore, broke the what we’re doing.” year-old school record in triple jump with a leap of Though the team now has money to travel, 39 feet, 5.75 inches. McDaniel finished fifth and the area in which the program is most affected by earned a provisional qualification for nationals in under-funding is the lack of scholarships it can afthe process. ford to dole out.

“I think I’ve improved a lot. I was held back “As costs have gone up, my scholarship num(last year) because of an ankle injury. It was tough bers have stayed the same. We have to convince because I wasn’t as prepared as I could have been,” people to come here and pay out of their pocket, McDaniel said. “This year, me being healthy has take loans, hope they get grants,” Burke said. made a difference. I feel I get stronger as a runner, “They get a lot more funding than a regular student with more experience.” gets, but considering the amount of sacrifice and McDaniel’s injury limited her improvement, but time they put in, it’s not a lot.” hasn’t prevented her elevation to one of the team’s Even though SF State faces challenges that leaders this year, earning provisional qualifying mitigate the recruiting process, Burke hopes to marks in three events: the triple jump, the 60-meter focus on the accomplishments of past athletes as dash, and the 4x400 relay. a means to attract future recruits and maintain the Senior Carrie Thomas, 21, runs on the 4x400 success of this season. relay team with McDaniel, and views her cool “We have a thrower (recruit) who got sixth in demeanor as a comforting factor before big races. the state. She came and visited us the second week “(Before a race) I’m really nervous, and she’s of school and had an amazing time. Luisa made an really calm and serene. She claims to be nervous incredible impression on her,” Burke said. “She’s but it doesn’t show,” Thomas said. “Her perforperpetuating the program. A kid sees her and says mance helps set the tone for the team. You want to ‘I could do something like that!’”

BASEBALL WIN

Feb. 8 vs. Central Washington University 7-5

LOSS

Feb. 10 vs.

Fresno Pacific 1-6

LOSS

Feb. 11 vs. Fresno Pacific University 5-9

LOSS

Feb. 11 vs. Fresno Pacific University 1-8

WRESTLING WIN

Feb. 8 vs. Menlo College 23-9

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL LOSS

Feb. 10 vs. Cal State East Bay 41-46

LOSS

Feb. 11 vs. Cal State Monterey Bay 57-76

MEN’S BASKETBALL WIN

Feb. 10 vs. Cal State East Bay 78-71

WIN

Feb. 11 vs. Cal State Monterey Bay 81-78

SOFTBALL LOSS

Feb. 10 vs. Cal State East Bay 1-9

LOSS

Feb. 10 vs. Cal State East Bay 2-13

LOSS

Feb. 11 vs. Cal State East Bay 3-6

WIN

Feb. 11 vs. Cal State East Bay 4-3

12 12

02.15.12 | GOLDENGATEXPRESS.ORG

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