Banner | Vol. 70 Issue 8

BY MEGAN MADRIGAL ASST. NEWS EDITOR

To celebrate Black History Month at California Baptist University, Community Life and the Black Student Union (BSU) collaborated to host a variety of events, including a new gala held on the evening of Feb. 8 in the Community

Homecoming weekend brings Lancers together

of generations of people.

Life Lounge. Students were encouraged to attend wearing semi-formal attire while enjoying food, music, raffles and the company of others.

The successful organization of the gala stemmed from the attendees’ interaction with cultural food, music and more. It represents more than just a community, but a convergence

“Events such as the Black History Month Gala provide an opportunity to showcase African American culture, through spoken word, music, food and fellowship,” said Charles Lee-Johnson, associate dean of the Division of Social Work.

Perspectives shift as COVID numbers fall, mandates end

BY CONNOR RYAN NEWS EDITOR

As the world moves through 2023, “COVID-19” has become a phrase uttered far less often by the public, even though it was considered a universal threat not even a year ago. Testing sites across the country have either decreased their hours or shut down. Masks are no longer required in most public and private establishments, and the occasional cough heard across the room no longer instills fear in people’s hearts. The pandemic is over. Kind of.

“In my opinion, COVID-19 has simply become part of our everyday experience, much like illnesses like the cold or flu,” said Dr. Chase Porter, professor of political science. “Due to a combination of widespread vaccination and infection, the virus is not nearly as deadly as it was at the beginning of the pandemic. It’s now very common to get COVID and to get it multiple times.”

The main reason COVID has become less of a talking point

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is that people are not as affected in their daily lives as much. People have not only developed stronger immunity to the virus due to constant exposure, but vaccine technology has become more sophisticated.

Long gone are the days when people were concerned about getting blood clots after taking the vaccine. Now, scientists look toward protecting against new strains and creating better ways to administer shots.

“The latest approved vaccine on the market in the U.S. is the mRNA-based bivalent booster, which targets both the original strand of COVID and the omicron variant,” Porter said. “One goal for vaccines includes wider development of a vaccine that can be delivered intranasally rather than through an injection. According to NBC News, there are 117 of these in development, with five approved in different countries and 20 more in clinical trials.”

Audrey Smith, junior creative writing major, argues that in addition to improvements in the medical field, the media has

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played a massive part in how the public perceives the virus. Both sides of the political spectrum have used television and social media to voice their opinions.

“I definitely think [COVID] has been used to try painting a picture of the other [political party],” Smith said. “Republicans will complain that Democratic efforts to give government support are ineffective, and Democrats will complain that Republicans aren’t doing enough to address the issue.”

“Not only have these parties pointed out each other’s flaws, but they also have switched their opinions on multiple occasions,” said Andrew Winslow, junior creative writing major.

“The Trump administration came up with the vaccine, and of course that made it evil for the Democrats, but as soon as Biden gets into office and starts endorsing it, they flip sides,” Winslow said. “All of a sudden, Democrats are all for it and Republicans are all against it.”

SEE

Photos by Josselyn Guillen | Banner Students enjoy the carnival festivities on the first night of Homecoming weekend. The carnival on Feb. 10 featured rides, a mirror maze, food trucks and games, followed by a basketball game and alumni gatherings on Feb. 11.

After serving as a popular form of entertainment during the pandemic, the podcast boom wanes.

Ticket issues through Ticketmaster raise questions about monopolies in the industry.

Pinterest still serves as a helpful tool for inspiring creativity and building boards.

Emily McGinn | Banner

Photos by Josselyn Guillen and Hannah Okamoto | Banner

onathan Mejia

THE BANNER STAFF

Editor-in-chief

Emily McGinn

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News Editor Connor Ryan

Asst. News Editors

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Podcast craze dies after COVID

BY CONNOR RYAN NEWS EDITOR

Podcasts are a unique medium, as they do not require as much concentration as a TV show yet are more involved than the average pop song. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people were especially hungry for non-visual content to supplement their remote work and hobbies. Hybrid music and podcast sites such as Spotify took advantage of people’s spare time by making deals with podcasters to host higherquality exclusive talk shows.

However, these investments may have proven premature, as Spotify reported podcasts accounted for only 7% of total listenership on their platform in 2022.

to assist in their predictions and interpretation of stats.

However, Parker voices his frustration that they have not yet “blown up” on Spotify, and attributes this to the oversaturation of the market.

He reported that he would often spend around four hours editing one episode, only for it to receive fewer than 200 streams.

familiarity and are opposed to finding new content in Spotify’s vast library of podcasts. Jillian Gutierrez, sophomore nursing major, said that she generally gravitates toward select shows and does not usually look for new ones.

media convergence of Spotify, which forces podcast hosts to compete not only with other shows, but also with music.

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The Banner newspaper is an award-winning, bi-weekly campus publication that publishes 10 issues a year at California Baptist University

The Banner, a student-run newspaper, serves the CBU community with accurate, timely and factual reporting on significant aspects of university life, Riverside life and subjects of interest or concern to its readers. The Banner ’s not necessarily reflect the opinions or interests of the university others in the university are encouraged to react to published material or to comment on matters of concern. The Banner retains the right to edit your letter upon publication based on grammar and word count. Send letters to Emily McGinn, editor-in-chief of The Banner at emilyanne. mcginn@calbaptist.edu.

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“Spotify is generalized as a music app, and I don’t feel like Spotify has done a great job promoting their podcasts as a platform,” said Logan Parker, junior finance major. “Unless you have background already — you know, a big platform that you’re basing o of — it’s tough to grow.”

Parker is the co-creator of Painting the Corners, a baseball commentary podcast he hosts with Johnny Neinstadt, a junior at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Both bring unique qualities to the show, with Parker being an experienced baseball player and Neinstadt bringing his understanding of mathematics

“It’s just gotten to that point where it’s less profitable for people to start new podcasts,” Parker said. “Now, just because there’s so many out there, it’s hard to get your own foot in the door and do that. There’s a lot of time to put into if you want to get products for seemingly very little reward right now.”

Spotify provides little assistance in promoting people’s shows, choosing to showcase their originals before any that lack lucrative deals with the platform.

Parker said that most of his audience was brought over from their Twitter posts, rather than anyone stumbling upon it while using Spotify. The listeners themselves have a role to play in this issue, as most listeners are drawn by

“There are so many di erent people and opinions and genres of topics for podcasts,” Gutierrez said. “For me, I tend to stick to the same podcasts I’ve been listening to from when I first got into it.” The vast array of topics and the shrinking attention span in younger generations means podcasts are becoming more compact to keep people engaged.

“More and more media seems to be moving toward short, quick content,“ said Nate Fister, sophomore architecture major.

This noticeable shift, done to capture the attention of younger audiences, comes at the expense of losing established listeners. Fister said that he dropped many of the podcasts he used to subscribe to due to their changed content and style.

Parker believes this alteration is partially due to the

“I think a big di erence between podcasts and music is a song is three to five minutes, where a podcast is half an hour to an hour,” Parker said. “People just don’t have that amount of time.”

Another challenge with podcasts is that many people who were previously working remotely are now back in the o ce setting.

“Now that most people are not working from home, I feel like it means they don’t have that time to listen to podcasts,” Fister said. “A lot of jobs implement a no-music policy while working, which could extend to podcasts.”

Despite dealing with these struggles, Parker remains optimistic about his predicament. Though he works hard to create a high-quality podcast, it was never about making money.

“We know this was a good episode,” said Parker, referring to his most recent episode. “It’s one of our better ones. And it just doesn’t see numbers, and you’re kind of like, ‘Is there a point?’ During this, I tried to remind myself that we’re doing it for fun, and we never really did it with the intent to go big. But even with that intent in mind, you know that you have good content, and you believe it.”

Riverside County Fair returns on Feb. 17

The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival is returning after a three-year hiatus on Feb. 17. The local fair, taking place Feb. 17-26, is set to be held at the Riverside County Fairgrounds in Indio, Calif.

The fair began as a festival celebrating the harvest of dates, Coachella Valley’s most popular fruit, in 1921. By 1947, fairgrounds for the festival were opened and have now become the home of the Riverside County Fair.

“There will be all kinds of amusement rides, and there will be all kinds of fair foods and all kinds of musical concerts every day,” said Merry Aronson, partner with MPower Media, the fair’s marketing team. “Entertainment and every food

booth will be required to have a dish based on date food.”

The fair sees over 250,000 guests annually and is a community-oriented event.

Some of the free attractions at the fair are pig races, a hypnotist named Mark Yuzik, balloonacy (balloon animals) and a sea lion splash show – a new attraction where guests can watch sea lions perform tricks. There will also be carnival rides, live music, datecooking demonstrations, Blue Ribbon competitions and fair food.

“I would recommend people to go because it is good to know your community,” said Edgar Gaspar, senior music composition major. “I would recommend them to try out the food, especially the funnel cakes.”

Those interested in going

to the fair can purchase tickets online or at the gate. There will also be an option online to buy a season pass for $30 to attend all ten days.

Children under 5 years old will have free admission, youth between the ages of 6-12 will be able to enter for $12 at the gate, and senior citizens will be admitted for $13 at the gate. For adults, the cost of admission is $10. Carnival wristbands will be charged separately, costing between $32-37 at the gate or $30 online.

Although the event is in Indio, which is a 90-minute drive from campus, the event has captured the attention of some California Baptist University students.

“I think being familyfriendly and having lots of rides and attractions and great food options is what makes a fair very memorable,” said Carissa Santoyo, freshman biochemistry and molecular biology double major.

The fair is set to have some musical events as well. Concert tickets will be sold separately and prices vary.

Some musical concerts and guests include a Tejano Fest on Feb. 18, Pancho Barraza on Feb.

19, Flo Rida on Feb. 23 and The Fray on Feb. 24.

“I am really interested in going to the fair,” Gaspar said.

“I normally want to go see live music because I am a music guy and composer. I want to see what is around me and what is around my area and school. I want to see my community.”

The artists were announced recently, so students may still be able to secure tickets to their favorite artists’ shows.

“It’s not too late for anything,” Aronson said. “Some of the [performers] have been announced. It is not too late to get those [concert tickets].”

“

Unless you have background already — you know, a big platform that you’re basing off of — it’s tough to grow.

Logan Parker, junior nance major and co-host of Painting the Corners Podcast

Photo Illustration by Giulia Decataldo | Banner

Due to an oversaturation of the market, it is no longer pro table for the average person to start a podcast. This has led to a decline both in the numbers of listeners and podcasters after COVID-19.

BY JONATHAN MEJIA ASST. NEWS EDITOR

“I think being family-friendly and having lots of rides and attractions and great food options is what makes a fair very memorable.”

Carissa Santoyo, Freshman biochemistry and molecular biology double major

Catholic archdioceses experience vandalism amid political con icts

Controversial policy decisions spark animosity toward religion

BY CONNOR RYAN NEWS EDITOR

Over the past few years, the melding of politics and the church has become inescapable, especially for those whose political ideologies clash with the ideals of a religious group.

“At least 239 incidents have occurred across 42 states and the District of Columbia since May 2020. Incidents include arson, statues beheaded, limbs cut, smashed, and painted,

gravestones defaced with swastikas and anti-Catholic language and American flags next to them burned, and other destruction and vandalism,” according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops website. The number of incidents has increased, with the number in 2022 being nearly triple that of 2020.

“In 2018, there were 50 incidences of hostility against churches; in 2019, there were 83, in 2020 there were 54; in 2021 there were 96; and between January and September 2022, there were 137,” according to a report by the Family Research Council.

With the increasingly volatile political climate in the U.S., archdioceses across the country have been targeted for

a variety of reasons.

Local faith leaders said the Catholic church has recently faced opposition from progressive groups who disagree with the Christian belief that life begins at conception.

Deacon John De Gano of St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church in Riverside said the overturning of Roe v. Wade caused his church’s leadership to worry for their safety.

“We’re across the street from Planned Parenthood,” De Gano said. “If there was some kind of a rally, it’s likely we would be the focus of their attention because we’re so close.”

Though De Gano’s church has only experienced occasional gra ti, the Queen

of Angels Church in Riverside was not so lucky. Reverend Beni Leu, the pastor of Queen of Angels Church, said that an unknown individual destroyed the church’s mailbox sometime in January.

This is not the first time they have experienced vandalism.

A few years ago, Leu said, someone sprayed various profanities along the outside of the building with gra ti.

De Gano also referenced an incident at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, where a group of people dressed up as characters from the Hulu show “The Handmaid’s Tale” and interrupted mass.

“The Handmaid’s Tale,” based on Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel, is about a totalitarian society that tries to control women’s fertility, implying that these individuals blamed the Catholic Church for state abortion laws.

“There are also those who like to stir the pot like to cause trouble, and so they will create opportunities to put down faith or religion,” De Gano said.

Sarah Mandzok, sophomore pre-nursing student and a

Startup announces ambitious plans to bring the dodo bird back from extinction

BY CONNOR RYAN NEWS EDITOR

Various forms of media portray the concept of cloning as a futuristic figment of humanity’s imagination. However, an ambitious startup company thinks that they can make this a reality, and they are starting with the dodo bird.

Colossal Biosciences is a genetic engineering company that has garnered massive investments after claiming their intentions to reconstruct and clone the DNA of the dodo bird, the woolly mammoth and the Tasmanian tiger. Scientists involved in the project are using DNA recovered from permafrost and attempting to use DNA from the Nicobar pigeon, the closest living relative of the dodo bird.

Though the company has substantial support, Dr. Patrick Schacht, professor of biochemistry, is highly skeptical of the project’s plausibility.

“Even in permafrost, [DNA] is going to slowly decay over time,” Schacht said. “You’re talking about stu that’s so heavily fragmented that you present a lot of issues currently. And one of the things that’s debatable as to whether it will be ever surmountable is the errors and being able to interpret between the errors.”

Schacht used a metaphor to explain the imprecise nature of the cloning process.

“I always think of the ‘Jurassic Park’ scene where they tried to explain how all this would work,” Schacht said. “They give a hypothetical model of taking DNA from a frog and fill in the missing gaps because it’s adaptable. And the di culty is it’s far more

COVID-19

Continued from Page 1

Politicians themselves have claimed the virus not only changed the political atmosphere but also ushered in a new era for government policies.

Porter referenced Gov. Gavin Newsom, who said he could “see this [pandemic] as an opportunity to reshape the way we do business and how we govern.”

“At this point, I do not think that we have witnessed the fundamental reshaping of

complicated than that.

“Think of it as if you’re trying to put together a puzzle, and you don’t have all the pieces. Well, if you have the picture on the box, even if you don’t have all the pieces, you might be able to say, ‘I know this piece goes here, and I know that piece goes there because I’ve got the picture on the box.’ Well, if you take the picture on the box and run it through a filter that takes the photograph and makes it an impressionist painting, you can still kind of do that. You can get some information, but you’re not going to get 100% there.”

Schacht explained that in an animal with several billion nucleotides (units that form the basic structure of DNA), even a 0.001% error rate can be fatal, as that is equal to millions of missing or misplaced nucleotides.

Not only would these millions of nucleotides be in the wrong place, but without a living dodo bird as a reference, there is no way for the scientists to know which ones are creating problems.

Schacht said he believes that we are nowhere near this kind of technology and argues that many investors do not believe in it either.

“They didn’t get this out of an index fund — they got this out of a bunch of wealthy people who know there’s a 90% chance this fails miserably,” Schacht said, referring to Colossal Biosciences. “If it fails, they’ve got investments in 100 other places as well. So, they’re OK betting their money on it.”

Whether the process works, the moral ambiguity of the question is up for debate among the scientific community.

“A lot of people believe that this is wrong, and a few people

governance as that quote seems to imply,” Porter said. “But there have been ways in which the pandemic has created conditions for implementing policy changes, especially as it relates to fiscal policy.

“The American Rescue Plan is a $1.9 trillion spending bill that was implemented in 2021 in response to the economic challenges created by COVID but included a wide range of spending provisions seemingly unrelated to the pandemic,” Porter continued.

Thus, as parties began implementing the changes they wanted, the necessity to centralize the issue lessened.

believe it’s OK,” said Mirna Ramis, graduate biomedical major.

“I believe it is OK because you can use DNA from the entire species, which makes this much better than other methods. Also, DNA can be used to make new plants that can be used in a lot of di erent fields.”

Kobe Cortez, junior environmental science major, argued that though DNA alteration is nothing new, bringing back an extinct species is largely unethical.

“Human scientists have been altering DNA for decades to breed specific animals, so this is not an entirely new topic,” Cortez said.

“However, to bring an extinct species back to modern times? One would need to assume what it primarily fed on and its habitat to live healthily. Though, in all honesty, it would most likely be kept inside a lab. An artificially born creature forced to endure many experiments until it dies seems very unethical.”

Another issue is how these ancient animals can reacclimate to modern ecosystems.

While Schacht believes that a few dodo birds in zoos or enclosed habitats will likely have little e ect on the surrounding environment, there will probably be issues if they are released into the wild.

“Ecology has proven again and again that we don’t understand it,” Schacht said. “There’s this perennial issue of invasive species, and every time we try to do one thing, there are unintended consequences.”

However, Schacht does not attribute this environmental skepticism to the supposed

The number of cases and deaths was falling, and both politicians and civilians began to discuss the topic with less frequency unless they were more directly a ected by it.

Additionally, the economy has finally started to recover from the wide-raning e ects of a two-year lockdown.

“Some aspects of economic recovery have been stronger and faster than anticipated,” Porter said. “Gross domestic product and the labor market have had very robust recoveries that have exceeded expectations from the beginning of the pandemic. The primary impact we are currently experiencing

practicing Catholic, argued that these people falsely ascribe a political agenda to Catholicism, when their ideologies are instead rooted in morality.

“I don’t think people understand the Catholic church itself never takes a side in American politics,” Mandzok said. “The church calls for us to be informed voters. You can see the teachings of the Catholic church in both sides of the political spectrum. There is no left or right, just what the magisterium teaches.”

De Gano provided another outlook, saying that politics and the church have always been linked. However, instead of labeling politics as explicitly dangerous, he made the case that church members have a right to voice their ideals in a political context.

“Can you argue that we’re playing politics?” said De Gano, contemplating the role of politics in the church.

“Well, we’re standing up for our faith, standing up for what we believe, and this is what democracy is about. So we’re really not any di erent than someone who’s speaking out on any other issue.”

Another issue arises if lawmakers attempt to twist the ideals of Christian denominations and appear to use them for political ends.

De Gano referenced an advertising campaign in the Midwest funded by Gov. Gavin Newsom that referenced Matthew 22:39 — in which Jesus says “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” — to extend California’s access to abortion to those from out of state. De Gano said he did not appreciate the connection of Jesus’s words to the campaign.

He stated that his principles are a product of faith in the Lord and his teachings. He argued that politics are not the cornerstone of religion, as there is often disagreement even among members of the church regarding these issues.

“We’re supposed to leave our politics at the doorstep at the church,” De Gano said. “Because when we come, we’re coming to glorify God, coming to gratitude to God for what God has for us. And our communion service — our mass — is about coming together to unify. Politics is not about unity.”

NEWS BRIEFS

WRITTEN BY MEGAN MADRIGAL

weaker immune system and shorter lifespan of clones and instead refers to the commonly misinterpreted story of Dolly, a cloned sheep that lived only a few years.

“There’s a general issue that people misunderstand what cloning is and what the limits of cloning are,” Schacht said. “Dolly died of a virus that had an e ect of causing cancer that sheep throughout the research facility were also dying from that were not genetically modified in any way, shape or form.

“So we don’t know the results of how long she would have lived.”

Even so, Dolly was created using a living reference, and Ramis argues that our technology has not yet reached the point where scientists can recreate animals and plants.

Schacht speculates that rather than funding the dodo bird’s rebirth, investors are dedicating their money toward improving gene synthesis, the process of creating and assembling nucleotides to form genes.

“The technology that will be developed in the process will be very valuable,” Schacht said. “It will be interesting to see because gene synthesis has not accelerated as fast as gene sequencers because they haven’t had a need for it.”

Cortez argues that whether it is the technology or something else, there is an ulterior motive at play and that the product of their research will backfire. He stated that it is unethical for humans to try and resurrect these creatures.

“It was human ignorance that made the creatures extinct,” Cortez said. “Now we must live with the mistakes.”

is significant inflation that was caused by a variety of pandemic-related factors, including the government spending bills.”

Government o cials might avoid conversations about the pandemic, as the subject can lead back to their spending during an emergency and its e ect on the economy. Regardless of political and economic implications, people grow tire of rehashing the same issues.

“People want to get away from the politics of what happened during COVID at its height,” Winslow said. “People just want to move on.”

NEW VALLEY FEVER DISCOVERED

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have identi ed a new illness in the Southwest known as valley fever. The CDC de nes valley fever as a fungal infection caused by breathing in the spores of a fungus called Coccidioidomycosis. According to a report from Fox News, this fungus can be found on the ground, speci cally in the dirt of warm and dry places. This makes Arizona and California the states facing the highest risk. However, scientists predict heavy wind or construction activity in surrounding states can increase risk, as well. The most common symptoms include fatigue, chills and fever. The California Department for Public Health is focusing on the spread of the infection as new cases arise.

EARTHQUAKE IN TURKEY, SYRIA

Turkey experienced a magnitude 7.8 earthquake on Feb. 6 — one of only three earthquakes in the region to surpass a magnitude of 6 since 1970, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Heavy damage extended to northwestern Syria. Within 24 hours of the intial quake, aftershocks of at least a 6.0 magnitude occurred. Thousands of buildings collapsed, leaving more than 31,000 dead and more than 100,000 injured, according to a Feb. 14 statement from the World Health Organization. Because the main earthquake was relatively shallow, occuring at about 11 miles deep, the intensity of the rumbling was severe on the surface, according to the USGS. The World Health Organization released a statement that nearly 26 million people in both countries need humanitarian assistance.

REPORT ON POLICE VIOLENCE

The death of 29-year-old Tyre Nichols after a confrontation with Memphis Police on Jan. 7 has sparked another conversation about police violence across the nation. A new data analysis from Mapping Police Violence shows that U.S. law enforcement killed nearly 1,200 people in 2022. This made 2022 the deadliest year on record since 2013, the rst year that experts began tracking this data nationally. Memphis Police said Nichols was initially pulled over for reckless driving. When he attempted to escape, he was beaten by ve police of cers from a specialized street crime unit called Scorpion, and he died in the hospital three days later. The city of Memphis released body camera and street camera footage on Jan. 24 showing the encounter. During his State of the Union address on Feb. 7, President Joe Biden noted the incident and called for more accountability.

BHM GALA

Continued from Page 1

“The gala is a replication of the long-standing practice of African Americans using communal gatherings as a way to encourage, empower and equip one another with the love and support that is needed to combat the evils of oppression. Attending events like the Black History Month Gala gives participants the opportunity to connect with students and faculty of color, learn about African American culture and promote unity and oneness within the Christian community. ”

Through the addition of the gala, students received the opportunity to recognize and appreciate the Black culture in a fun and fresh way.

“When I heard about this event, I was really

interested in going because I’m always trying to go to the di erent CBU events like this one to learn more about di erent cultures,” said Isabelle Ray, junior creative writing major. “I try my best to enlighten myself to other people’s experiences and di erences. It’s interesting to learn about since culture really impacts the person you are and what you value. Especially because I have friends that are part of the Black community, I wanted to know how I could learn about their background and support them more.”

Students from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences came together at this event. Ray said she believes the best way to connect deeply with friends in the community is to celebrate and support them at any chance given.

Lee-Johnson is assisting in hosting the movie night for Black History Month, which will be held on Feb. 25 on the Recreation Center rooftop. The gala and movie night are just two of the main

events throughout the month through which students can celebrate the beauty of Black culture.

There are other events where Black History Month will be a feature, such as an artistic night. It was held on Feb. 8, which was similar to the gala, though it was a more casual event showcasing poetry and art relating to Black culture.

“We want to educate, bring awareness and celebrate black culture on our campus,” said Emilee Thompson, assistant director of Campus Activities for Community Life. “As we continue to grow in our diversity, we want to make sure that our student population is being seen and appreciated. When I see the student body come together to recognize and celebrate other cultures, it reflects the unity of Christ.”

Cultural events such as the gala and the artistic event put a spotlight on the diversity of CBU’s student and faculty population, ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds are noticed and appreciated by the community.

BY IGNACIO DOMINGUEZ CONTRIBUTOR

Just a few months ago, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter at California Baptist University looked ahead with uncertainty at their next steps and their future growth. Today, the chapter is making a name for the university at major levels.

The CBU chapter of NSBE has seen success since its inception in August 2021. Expanding from three members to 30 in only a little over six months, the club competed at a regional level “hackathon,” the 48th National Society of Black Engineers Convention in Anaheim, Calif., and placed second against schools including Stanford University, the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of California, Berkeley.

NSBE is a national organization dedicated to uplifting and increasing the number of Black engineers. It has 600 active chapters and more than 24,000 members across the country. CBU joined the list last year.

The CBU chapter was founded by Vanessa Roché, junior biomedical engineering major. As a high school student, she was motivated to pursue engineering thanks to spaces that uplift and represent communities like her own.

When Roaché first came to CBU from Maryland, she said it was a culture shock as she sat in engineering classes where, many times, she was the only Black student. She looked to cultivate spaces where students could feel welcomed and represented.

“Some people just want a community of people that look like them,” Roaché said. “They wanted a space to study with people who understand them.”

Black engineers make up roughly 5% of the entire field, according to data from the National Science Foundation. For Black engineering students like Roaché, outlets like NSBE have continued to helping her grow her potential in the field.

“When I was in high school, I was in NSBE and that type of environment really raised me up to be the person I am today — a leader — and to know what I’m doing academically, not just randomly getting put into the engineering world without having a clue what I’m doing,” Roaché said. “So I wanted to extend that same type of opportunity.”

Roaché also said she has been grateful for the support from the College of Engineering, which has allowed them to travel to two conventions in the last year.

They are now preparing to head to NSBE’s 49th National Convention from March 22-26 in Kansas City, where they will continue connecting and cul-

tivating their passion for engineering.

“To see the type of friendships and family that I’ve made, everyone in NSBE is like my family in some way now and for years to come,” Roaché said.

“Momentum is the word, and it’s just so amazing just how God really brought the right people into this club,” said Dr. Robert Shields, associate professor of computer information technology and adviser of CBU’s NSBE chapter.

Chapter members from CBU are now preparing to take their passion of engineering to open a pre-college initiative at a local high school in the desert allowing younger Black generations get involved in NSBE and engineering.

“I felt like we needed to do more and so the biggest part of giving back to the community, I feel like is to raise up the younger generation,” Roaché said. “[In] fall of 2023 there will be a new chapter at Adelanto High School in Victorville.”

Students within NSBE have not only found a spot for representation, but also a space for belonging as they continue to create strong bonds with one another.

“It feels like a family,” said Adonai Pearson, senior mechanical engineering major. “I think every one of us here are like brothers and sisters who try to accomplish greater things in life, and it’s something that I don’t want to miss.”

BY EMILY MCGINN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Most of us have heard of the typical advice to drink eight cups of water each day because water is necessary for life. In fact, monitoring water intake has inspired various forms of water bottles to encourage and ensure proper water intake. Options range from a 32-ounce Giotto water bottle with time markings and motivational statements priced at $23.99 on Amazon to a more intense bottle, such as the Hidrate Spark Smart Water Bottle, which glows to remind the user to drink water ($79.99 on Amazon).

But do these water bottles accurately monitor water intake, and are they worth the investment?

Before determining if these water bottles are helpful, it is important to establish the parameters for proper water intake. The eight-cupsa-day rule of thumb has a long history, rooted in an early study and eventually becoming a recommendation by the U.S. Food and Nutrition Board of the National Research Council in long-ago 1945.

“The truth is it came from a paper published almost 100 years ago where a guy measured his own urine and realized that he lost about eight cups a day and that is where the recommendation came from,” reads an article by the American Health and Well-

Do smart water bottles help regulate water intake properly?

ness Center.

Despite this rule’s outdated nature, it is not far o . Dr. Andrew Harveson, associate professor of kinesiology, said the eight-cups-a-day rule is “a fine place to start,” but guidelines now recommend about 3.7 L of fluids for adult men each day and 2.7 L for adult women, according to a study by the U.S. National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine.

However, unlike the former guidelines, these numbers include fluid from both food and drink during the day. Considering this, Harveson said that men should drink about 12 cups (3 L) of water each day and women should drink about 9 cups (2.2 L) of water each day, which parallels recommendations distributed by the Institute of Medicine.

However, water intake is more complicated than these cut-and-dry guidelines. Everyone is di erent and therefore has di erent needs. For example, Harveson said water needs will change based on exercise levels, sweat levels and environment.

“Athletes, those who sweat heavily and people living in hot or humid climates should certainly have greater intake,” Harveson said.

Since water needs vary, water bottles can only help so much.

“Without inputting your specific anatomy, activity levels and the heat index in your area, the water bottle can only go by general guidelines for the average person,” Harveson said. “This

is a good starting point, but it’s important to keep in mind that nutrition is highly individual, so for the person who is a heavy sweater, or exercises a lot, or lives in a hot or humid environment or someone with greater than average muscle mass — their needs will be different, so we always want to take that into account.”

However, Harveson sees positives in water bottles that prompt water intake because such prompts can help those who struggle with hydration.

“I have never tried one myself, but I think that they can be helpful for a person that is goal-oriented,” said Brittney Helget, senior biology major.

“I am an advocate for gathering what my body needs, which is going to be di erent everyday due to di ering environments, activity levels and metabolism.”

Helget makes an e ort to prioritize fluid intake. Her hydration routine starts with a glass of water right when she wakes up and she drinks water with nearly every meal and finishes a 32-ounce water bottle each day.

Harveson said hydration is vital for temperature regulation, as well as fluid and electrolyte balance, which influences cognition. In fact, electrolyte and sodium intake are so important that to drink nothing else but water would not be enough.

“Fluid replacement with only water can lead to hyponatremia (water intoxication),”

Harveson said. “Symptoms include dizziness, fainting, seizures and death. Symptoms mimic dehydration — dry mouth, dry skin, high body temperature — so we always want to be aware of proper electrolyte intake.”

Since resources to monitor water levels can only take people so far, one should monitor their own water intake to ensure proper hydration. There is one indicator that Harveson emphasizes as the most accessible way to determine your hydration levels: pee.

“While it always gets a laugh or two, urine color and volume is the easiest indicator,” Harveson said. “‘Clear’ or ‘light yellow’ are what we should be aiming for. Volume should be urinating every one to two hours during the day.”

Luckily, technology is also advancing to help monitor water needs in a more personalized way. Harveson points to integrations between smart water bottles and fitness tracking devices as progress to more customized hydration plans. However, ultimately Harveson encourages relying

MAKING A PLUSHY DOLL

on your body’s indicators to direct hydration habits.

“There are numerous apps and devices out there to help, but at the end of the day, our bodies are pretty good at telling us what they need, if we listen closely,” Harveson said. “Thirst is an important cue that’s worked pretty well for us for thousands of years, so I would start here. As your situation dictates, you may want to explore higher-tech options to find what works best for you. Just don’t overcomplicate it.”

MATERIALS

Scissors

Fabric (felt recommended)

Needle Thread

Stuff ing Marker (optional)

Using the scissors, cut the three shapes from your fabric.

T wo identical sides and one bottom piece.

Online program relieves traditional Chapel woes

BY VALERIE LA PONZA ASST. LIFESTYLE EDITOR

While returning to inperson Chapel after two years of the pandemic was exciting for students, they soon remembered what they had been missing. Many students, including commuters and residents alike, have found themselves running into logistics problems like work or class schedules and parking, leaving them wondering if alternative chapel is a better option for them.

Alternative Chapel, or online chapel, is a modern solution to connect Lancers who can not attend regular chapel on Tuesdays. If students have a class or work schedule conflict, commuting requirement or a personal or family obligation they may be eligible for the online program, according to the CBU website.

The online program accommodates a wide range of students by allowing them to watch from their homes, but it comes at the cost of the traditional method.

Lancers now must contemplate the e ects of inperson Chapel and weigh them against the accommodative, but virtual program. Do the benefits of attending Chapel in person outweigh the disadvantages?

Mikayla Williams, senior communications studies major and singer on the Chapel worship team, said that, for her, the benefits of attending Chapel in person come from the interactions you can have with your peers, as well as the added peer pressure to pay attention when you are in a group.

“In regular Chapel, you are able to engage more in person," Williams said. "Whether you’re regularly attending or just listening to the speaker or the

singers on stage, you’re able just to have a little bit more engagement with everybody and probably pay attention a bit more because you’ve got people around you that are watching and keeping you more accountable. Also, when you’re in person, watching the speakers, you get to read their body language and just see who they are a bit better when compared to watching them online.”

Brett Vowell, director of Chapel, said that while there are still some di culties with in-person chapel, he wants everyone to know that the Chapel team and those in charge are working on solutions.

Regarding the problems with the attendance policy and parking troubles, Vowell said that going back to an in-person [Chapel] transition would be challenging considering

how much CBU 's student population has changed. Those that last experienced in-person Chapel before it transitioned to online were only freshman.

Due to chapel’s online status for the past few years, Vowell said that CBU is still learning and growing to fit what students need and want, but it will only continue to improve.

“[We’re] just learning the di erences and the changes, and Chapel will continue to change and have some variations coming around, so we’ll just continue to do our best to communicate those,” Vowell said.

Ian Bell, senior applied theology major, said that the open communication around alternative and inperson Chapel is essential, as it encourages students to continue speaking up about concerns around Chapel. With time, the debate

could lead to fundamental changes within the way that Chapel operates, including the availability and o ering of di erent services, as many other Christian campuses, such as Biola University, o er.

Williams suggests that to help students with the chapel routine, CBU should switch up the chapel format slightly to give variation to their students and keep the message of Chapel the same, but with a di erent design to keepstudents engaged.

“In the past, they’ve done

more of a forum-type setting, where they have a panel of di erent speakers, and they’ll go around and have more of a conversation of a subject, whatever the topic is," Williams said. "I think that’s a nice way to break things up, so you’re not just being talked all out.”

While in-person Chapel still has some kinks to work out through the transition, the team behind Chapel is working dilligently to resolve these issues, and things will continue to change as the semester progresses.

written by Hannah Noel

STEP 4

Stitch the edges closed. Draw eyes if so desired.

STEP 3

TSTEP 1

STEP 2

Line up the edges of all three pieces. Using the needle and thread, sew all the edges together Be sure to leave space to f lip the frog inside out.

T urn the frog inside out and stuff it.

Design by Jameson Showers

Photo Illustration by Charissa Graves | Banner

While water bottles that track water intake can be beneficial, they are not the most reliable method of determining a person's hydration levels. It is recommended to instead focus on bodily cues to direct habits.

“[We're] just learning the differences and the changes, and Chapel will continue to change and have some variations coming around, so we'll just contine to do our best to communicate those."

Brett Vowel, Director of Chapel

Candle smoke contains toxic elements

BY OLIVIA LENNING ASST. LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Candles are a household staple used in just about every home. They serve as highly e ective air fresheners that provide unique smells and aesthetics. We keep them in our bathrooms, bedrooms and cupboards, but rarely do we wonder if they pose potential harm behind the candle flame itself.

C.J. Woods, senior chemistry major, shared her knowledge on the topic in regard to how the chemical properties in candles a ect not only humans, but also pets. Woods explained that the chemical in candles is only harmful to our health when lit and airborne.

“Harmful chemicals in candles are organic with alkene bonding, which are carcinogens —cancer-causing chemicals,” Woods said.

Woods said that these chemicals are primarily found in the wax of the candle but are also present in other parts.

“They are also found in the wick through the process of osmosis, which is the flow of a substance from a higher concentration area to a lower concentration area,” Woods said. “In other words, the chemicals seep into the wick and saturate it with carcinogens.”

Woods shared that even

small amounts of these chemicals pose a danger to our health.

“Since the airborne organic molecules are carcinogenic, it would cause lung cancer for people and animals when inhaled,” Woods said.

“There should be an open window nearby to allow some ventilation.”

Candles contain one of four main types of wax. These include para n, bees, soy and palm wax.

Dr. Bruce Prins, professor of biology, described the di erences between the waxes and their e ects on our health.

He explained bees and palm wax are the two healthiest options. However, the other two pose a higher risk in greater quantities.

“Para n comes from petroleum manufacture, so there are issues,” Prins said.

"However, these chemicals do not pose great risk at low levels."

Prins warned that candles that cause bodily symptoms are harmful and must be avoided. Even if the human body is quite resilient when it comes to fighting against harmful chemicals, he advised that we should be cautious not to breathe them in high doses.

“If your eyes, lungs or skin get itchy or sensitized by the candle, it is a sign to not use them,” Prins said.

Despite their household popularity, candles can pose significant danger to those that breathe in their

Prins explained the detox of harmful chemicals from the body and that the liver is the greatest defender against harmful chemicals. Unfortunately, this form of detox is not as e ective to airborne chemicals.

“Candles can produce toxins that first impact the airways and lungs before the liver can detoxify them,” Prins said.

Jade Adams, senior biomedical sciences major, explained the body detoxes chemicals in a variety of ways

depending on the form of entry. Since the human body is designed to remove these chemicals, small and quick doses may not cause any serious e ects. However, the same cannot be said for larger doses.

“For detoxifying harmful chemicals that we breathe in, the lungs will primarily take part in doing so through gas exchange,” Adams said. “Being exposed to such a thing over time is when adverse health e ects will truly start to take an

Professors share dating tips

BY SARAH MURPHY ASST. A&E EDITOR

Valentine’s Day is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year. Whether you choose to celebrate by going to a favorite restaurant with your significant other or making cards for your closest friends, it is an opportunity to show your appreciation and love to anyone. But what do California Baptist University professors think of Valentine’s Day? Do they have any relationship advice for the college-aged generation?

Dr. Sam Welbaum, assistant professor of philosophy, met his wife through an online dating site. But when he messaged her, she did not respond for three days.

“She was in Big Bear with her friends celebrating her 30th birthday, and it was during the Dorner incident when there was a serial killer,” Welbaum said. “SWAT shut everything down, so she wasn't really thinking about a dating app. She was thinking, ‘We have a SWAT team outside and there's a killer on the loose.’

But the day before Valentine's Day, she messaged me and we started talking.”

Welbaum emphasized how crucial it is to be intentional and honest with your actions. Do not let the fear of ruining a friendship prevent you from letting the other person know you are interested.

“To all the people who are interested in somebody and say, ‘Well, I really enjoy our friendship. I don't want to lose that’ — the fact is you will lose that friendship,” Welbaum said. “Within 10 years that friendship is gone anyway because one of you is going to end up with somebody else.”

Couples also need to have the same set of beliefs. Any discrepancies can lead to complications in the future.

“Scripture says don't be unequally yoked,” Welbaum said. “If I can't say that I'm dating this person to the glory of God, then I should not be dating this person. If dating this person is not an

act of worship and if it wounds my spiritual walk, then it's probably problematic.”

Welbaum has noticed that seniors, in particular, face pressure with finding “the one.” When dating, try not to have ridiculous expectations, but also do not settle.

“The pursuit of perfection is a great way to end up perpetually single, but the pursuit of tolerating something that's not tolerable is a great way to be miserable,” Welbaum said.

Megan Elledge, adjunct professor of English, met her husband because another CBU professor convinced her to join an online dating site.

But for Elledge, Valentine’s Day is not always dedicated to celebrating romantic love. Instead, she suggested giving a box of chocolates to one of your close friends or sending flowers to a family member.

“Being single for so long, I would either do something nice for myself or I would hang out with the girls," Elledge said.

"I even got my parents gifts sometimes. It's just a day to love on people who support you.”

It is easy to feel lonely around Valentine’s Day, but learning about yourself before getting into a relationship is crucial. Being single serves as an opportunity to grow within yourself and with your faith.

“I know there are times you don't like being single," Elledge said. "But looking back now, that was so foundational for me. It was important to focus on that time bettering myself and growing closer to God.”

Dating can also be di cult. The possibility of spending the rest of your future with the other person can make it nervewracking, and disappointment may follow when it does not end up the way you hoped.

“I feel when it doesn't work out, it's like this ‘horrible’ thing,” Elledge said. “If you go on a date, you should have that mindset of ‘It's to go have fun,’ not ‘It’s the one maybe.’ That way, if it doesn't work out, you're just like, ‘OK, I'm closer to meeting my husband or my

wife.'”

Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of management and marketing, met her husband while they were serving as small group leaders for the young adult ministry at church. They prefer not to celebrate Valentine’s Day since they would rather invest in their relationship all year long than only on one particular day.

“Find someone who loves Jesus,” Winter said. “When you face challenging times, the foundation of you both loving Jesus will allow you to find truth in his word and commit to supporting and loving each other through whatever storms life brings your way.”

This helps to navigate any di culties you encounter. However, how do you exactly resolve the issues that arise in a relationship?

“Be the first person to seek resolution,” Winter said. “If you're racing each other to see who can be first to resolve an issue, you're going to resolve any type of conflict quickly and you're going to do it with the other person's best interest in mind rather than trying to fight for your perspective.”

It is important to deeply appreciate the blessings God has given you, including your significant other, Winter said.

“Marriage is a gift,” Winter said. “Apart from my salvation in Jesus Christ, my husband is the best gift that God has ever given me.”

Dr. Bruce Prins, professor of biology, has a favorite Valentine’s Day gift that he gave to his wife. He gave her a necklace with a pearl inside. He had gotten the pearl at an amusement park when he was seven and saved it for his future wife.

Prins and his wife met on a church river trip. They happened to sit next to each other during lunchtime and decided to share their food.

“I pulled out my Ritz crackers with peanut butter and jelly and she said, ‘Oh, I don't like jelly.’ So I licked o the jelly to be funny, but she took it and ate it. And I could hear the angels singing and

thought, ‘Wow, this is my kind of girl',’’ Dr. Prins said.

The following week, she attended his church, and their love only grew from there.

“The longer we're together, the more I see other remarkable things in her," Dr. Prins said. "I think that's one of the beauties of being together for so long.”

As relationships evolve over time, however, there are seasons of di culties that are bound to occur. Remembering the one thing your relationship is founded upon — love — can serve as a way to resolve issues. Prins recalled the specific time he learned this lesson:

“I don't know what we were fighting about, you can never remember,” Dr. Prins said. “We were both looking in the opposite direction, and it was clear to me that this relationship could end right now. But I felt God saying, ‘You love her.’ So I turned to her and said, ‘You know whatever is going on here, I love you. So let's work it out.’ And of course, God plays such a big role in that. Your love for each other just gets deeper as your love for God does.”

Because of that profound moment, Prins and his wife are together to this day. Putting e ort into a worthwhile relationship definitely reaps good results.

“God completely changed the trajectory of my life when I met her,” Dr. Prins said. “It's like, man, when you walk with the Lord, you never know what's right around the corner. It's amazing.”

Finding “the one” can seem impossible. Relationships can be complicated. However, whether it be your significant other, family and friends, or even yourself, Valentine’s Day is simply a celebration of those

e ect on your body. Even if it’s in small amounts, you’re being exposed to a harmful chemical for long enough where it can begin to become harmful to your body.”

Candles produce not only airborne chemicals, but smoke as well. Adams explained that candles often do not produce large enough amounts of smoke to cause any serious harm, but smoke is far from safe to breathe in, and larger amounts may have more serious e ects.

While many of us enjoy

candles, they come at a cost. Just like most things, they need to be enjoyed in moderation. Stay cautious of the health e ects and keep a window open next time.

Candles can produce toxins that rst impact the airways and lungs before the liver can detoxify them.

Dr.

by Viet Thanh Nguyen

by Jameson Showers I Lifestyle Editor

"The Sympathizer" by Viet Thanh Nguyen is an enthralling novel exploring Saigon's fall and the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2016, the novel follows the protagonist, a communist spy who works for a South Vietnamese general, as he navigates life in the U.S. after the war. Throughout the story, there are several valid critiques of American culture and the Vietnam War.

The novel is written in the first person, with the main character remaining nameless throughout the story. He is a complex character who is divided between his communist sympathies and loyalty to the South Vietnamese general and his best friend. The protagonist escapes to the U.S., where he continues his work as a spy. He gathers information and reports to his communist organization while also serving as the general's right-hand man.

The protagonist's struggle with his identity progresses throughout the story. As a communist spy, he feels ashamed of his work for the South Vietnamese government. He is also conflicted with his love and loyalty to Vietnam and his growing disillusionment with the communist regime.

The novel explores these emotions and o ers a powerful insight into the American exceptionalism that fueled the Vietnam War.

One of the most striking features of this book is its writing style. The protagonist speaks in a distinct voice that is both detached and personal.

He is acutely aware that his roles in the war and in the U.S. make him a walking contradiction. The writing style is sometimes dense, with the author embellishing on certain points, but the rich content creates a clarifying sense of the protagonist's world.

Another pro of the novel is the way it navigates complex but relatable relationships. The protagonist's relationships with his comrades are filled with tension and o er a look at the political intrigue of the 1970s. The readers also explore a budding love story between the protagonist and the general's daughter, which adds more humanity to the story.

What is most powerful about "The Sympathizer" is that it does not hesitate to critique American exceptionalism and its role in the war. The story challenges the idea that the U.S. was a positive force in Vietnam and exposes the hypocrisies of the country's foreign policy.

Nyugen's exciting dialogue between characters and inner monologues o er these insights in more depth and enriches the story.

"The Sympathizer" is a thought-provoking novel that hits on many key aspects of identity and di erences in culture. The 416-page e ort is a powerful critique of American exceptionalism and exploration of identity, loyalty and betrayal. I highly recommend "The Sympathizer" to all those interested in challenging their beliefs, or the intricacies of identity.

“The Sympathizer”

Photo Illustration by Charissa Graves | Banner

fumes in high doses.

“

Bruce Prins, Professor of biology

“ When you face challenging times, the foundation of you both loving Jesus will allow you to nd truth

Dr. Natalie Winter, Professor of management

Homecoming carnival welcomes students, family and alumni

1. A group of students take a photo at the photo booth provided.

2. Attendees line up for a variety of carnival attractions spread across the Front Lawn.

3. Friends have fun and make memories during Homecoming weekend.

4. Families, friends and couples get the opportunity to ride a Ferris wheel together.

5. Students and families have fun playing an array of carnival games.

Photos by Josselyn Guillen and Natalie Tanaka

Athletes push boundaries in weight room

BY MICHAEL MARKS SPORTS EDITOR

The weight room is where champions are made and great teams come to life. While much of what fans and spectators see is usually on game day, plenty of hard work is put in behind the scenes. Some athletes, however, prefer it this way.

Damian Lillard, an NBA all-star and star player for the Portland Trailblazers, understood the importance of training and weight room when he said in a tweet, “If you want to look good in front of thousands, you have to outwork thousands in front of nobody.” While it is essential to practice the sport itself, the weight room is an often underutilized and underappreciated aspect of sports that is crucial.

David Herd, a California Baptist University baseball alumnus and one of three strength and conditioning coaches for CBU athletes, understands what it takes to produce strong, competitive players. Herd tailors his training to the needs of the teams he coaches, focusing specifically on men’s and women’s swim, volleyball, women’s water polo, wrestling and softball.

These sports are intentionally grouped together, sharing many similar movements and motions. Water polo and softball focus more on throwing, whereas wrestling and volleyball are more about power. Herd said

that the weight room is an excellent place to fill in the gaps where regular practices and training do not. While “We try to look at everything as filling buckets. If we took baseball, for example, during their preseason — depending on where they’re at in their training for practice — they might not be doing as much hitting, throwing, sprinting (and) things like that,” Herd said.

Training in the weight room has an almost rotational aspect to it, balancing between two di erent parts of competing in collegiate sports: pre-season and in-season.

“In pre-season, what we’ll do is try to make sure all their buckets are filled, so we’ll fill in that strength, that power, focus on rotational power, maximum speed and running,” Herd said.

“So a lot of that happens in season, trying to build the body and conditioning and get ready for the demands of the season.

Once they’re in season, they’re playing their sport a lot. For example, in baseball, they’ll be hitting a lot, so they’ll be doing a lot more swinging, and they’re throwing a lot. So what we do in the weight room in season is focus a little less on things that are being covered in games every single day.”

While there are many benefits to the weight room to help improve an athlete overall, Herd understands that there are other benefits that are not immediately apparent, such as ensuring an athlete can handle the demands of the season in

the first place.

“With everything that we do as far as our workout and what we design, it’s to make their tissue stronger (and) more resilient, and have the ability to keep up with the demands of what their season is like,” Herd said.

It is not just ensuring that athletes can keep up, but that they train their bodies to resist and prevent injuries, as well.

“Everyone looks at the field of strength and conditioning as just lifting as much weights as you possibly can,” Herd said. “That’s kind of how it was back in the day. Now it’s a little bit more of a holistic approach when it comes to looking at the demands of the sport, what are the injuries that more likely occur in the sport, and preventing those. It’s work nonetheless but it’s not the work everyone pictures in their head.”

Aubrey Chavez, junior business major and softball player, said that athletes understand the importance of the workout process as they can feel the di erence on the field and can even tell when an opposing team member does not utilize the weight room.

“In the weight room, we work on power movements, taking o (running and) pushing o (the base) hard,” said Chavez. “Let’s say a girl hits a ground ball up the middle. The short stops feet are kind of slow on her first step but in our weight room, we work on explosivity training. That first

Devin Garcia, junior mechanical engineering major and wrestler, sees benefits in his athletic

from use of the weight room.

step is lagged.” Chavez said she has also seen how the weight room made a di erence in her game, improving the minute details that could be the di erence between a win and a loss.

“When I got here in the fall, not only do I see the di erence, but in myself as well,” Chavez said. “When I look back at it, I definitely feel my first step is more intentional. My first step is more powerful with the stu that we do in weight training.”

Devin Garcia, junior mechanical engineering major and wrestler, explained how

he sees the benefits of the weight room transcending the di erent NCAA collegiate levels, with the benefits of a DI program versus a DIII program being especially evident in the sport.

“Especially in the BIG10s and the BIG12s, like Iowa (and) Arizona State, they are huge on their weight training, so they definitely have a di erence in their competition — a lot more competitive, a lot more tougher,” Garcia said. “Same thing goes for the D-III programs. They don’t have the strongest weight training

programs, so that’ll a ect their performance.”

While technique matters for all sports, the weight room plays a significant role.

“Technique is huge in wrestling, but if someone is just really strong, they can just overpower you,” Garcia said. “I would say wrestling, on a physical aspect, is 50% physical ability and 50% technique.”

While some athletes may not take the weight room seriously, with others shunning it entirely, it is clear that there is a benefit to the weight room no matter the sport.

PRE-GAME RITUALS

BY FLORIAN LE PALLEC ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Referees play a vital role in sports by providing leadership and guidance to players. In many sports, referees can have significant power and influence on the final outcome of a game as they are responsible for enforcing the rules, validating goals and sanctioning fouls and misconduct. It can also be a point of contention at times.

“The world of sports would not be possible if there weren’t referees,” said Herica Handley, assistant women’s volleyball coach. “They determine every call and initiation of each play or rally. In theory, they determine the outcome of every game, but we must remember that they spend so many hours of their lives learning the rules and training before they can ref an event.”

While referees’ decisions help maintain the standards of the game, they often lead to controversial discussions.

“I remember the situation when we lost a match because of the wrong referee’s decision,” said Michalina Rola, member of the women’s volleyball team and junior exercise science major. “In situations where you cannot quite tell whether someone scored correctly or made a mistake, referees decide who gets the point.

“When I played in the Polish national team against Russia at some tournament, the referees misjudged the most important action of the match to our disadvantage and there was no way to use the video challenge.”

Although referees’ decisions are controversial, Georgia Kehoe, member of the women’s volleyball team and master’s of business administration student, does not blame referees for their bad calls.

“Even if I have lost games because of referees’ calls, they have a system in place to make sure calls are fair and

consistent,” Kehoe said. “I think someone is always going to have a problem with the way a referee calls fouls, but the biggest part of the game is to be able to move past bad calls and adjust to how they are refereeing.”

Coaches and players can always talk to the referees about what happened with a controversial call. When a team still does not approve a decision, they can also ask for the use of technology to judge the action fairly.

“The players themselves know best what happened, so they feel whether the referee’s decision is correct or not,” Rola said. “You can usually see from the reactions of players and coaches if the call was wrong. Fortunately, at the Division-I level, we have the possibility to take a challenge and check the action in slow motion to be able to regain a point after a misinterpretation by the referee. In such a situation, a video challenge is very useful, where you can replay the situation and see exactly what happened.”

When referees make a bad call, Handley stresses the importance of rebounding by moving forward.

“Everyone will react to calls di erently, but it is something that can be trained within a team, both consciously and subconsciously,” Handley said.

“This is a team’s — or even a player’s — specific answer. If you have a reactive coach that yells at the referee every other play, then the players may learn to get frustrated as well. The more you teach your players that when you respect them and give them the freedom to make the correct calls, then there will not be as much tension, and the players can focus on their match and not let it bleed into their future performance.”

Referees are a part of the sport many athletes play and are here to stay, good or bad.

Even though I do not have specific pre-race rituals, I do have some habits that help me focus on the competition. Before I go to bed the night before my race, I always do 10-20 minutes of relaxation to fall asleep more easily. In the morning, when I get up, I like to go for a walk while listening to my special motivational playlist. Then, before my race, I like to spend time preparing and putting on my make-up because it helps me feel more confident. Finally, one hour before the start, I warm up while focusing on myself. I repeat positive and motivating thoughts to myself to feel good and increase positive adrenaline.

Massimiliano Berti, member of the men’s cross country and track team and sophomore environmental science major

I try to make my pre-race routine simple. The day before the race, I like to prepare my backpack with everything ready, put the bib on the racing singlet and make sure that the spikes of my shoes are all right. Then, on the day of the race, I go for a walk or a short shakeout, and one hour before, I drink some caffeine. Overall, what matters the most in my routine is spending some time with my teammates and my loved ones from Italy. This way, I can stay relaxed and approach the race with a smile but also with confidence.

I have two pre-game routines: one for the home games and another one for the away games. Before home games, I usually eat Brisco’s for lunch, so it is pretty filling. Around 2:30-3 p.m., I do my hair. After that, I get Shake Smart at 4:30 p.m., because our games are usually at 7 pm. My ritual there is to get a Raw PB with extra yogurt, banana slices and peanut butter. At 5 p.m., I get to the locker room and listen to my playlist while doing my other teammates’ hair. For away games, I have pretty much the same routine, but instead of getting Shake Smart, I bring my Yerba Mate drink to be ready for the game.

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performance

Maelle Porcher, member of the women's cross country and track team and freshman marketing major

Scherine Dahoue, member of the women’s volleyball team and master’s of business administration student

Athletes must learn to cope with o cials

Emily McGinn | Banner

BUSINESS & TECH

AMC Theatres changes pricing system for seats

BY MIKEALA ALDREDGE ASST. B&T EDITOR

Starting Feb. 10, AMC Theatres changed their ticket prices in select cities and will continue to do so across the country by the end of the year. The new change is called “Sightline,” and it involves pricing tickets based on the seat location in the theater. This allows viewers to pay varying prices for di erent viewing angles, similar to concert or theater seating.

‘Standard Sightline’ is the title of the ticket that encompasses the seats in the back. These tickets will be sold at the traditional ticket cost and are projected to be the most common choice. ‘Value Sightline’ encompasses the seats in the front of the theater and select seats within the auditorium.

The ‘Value Sightline’ seats are only available to AMC Stubs members, including the free tier membership. ‘Preferred Sightline’ is in the middle of the theater and is labeled as premium seats. AMC Stubs A-list can reserve seats in this section at no additional cost.

Sightline will be available after 4 p.m. with a detailed seating chart. Eliot Hamlisch, executive VP and CMO at AMC Theatres, provided a statement in a company release on the AMC Theatres website.

“Sightline at AMC more closely aligns AMC’s seat pricing approach to that of many other entertainment venues, o ering experience-based pricing and another way for moviegoers to find value at the movies,” Hamlisch said in the statement.

Hamlisch wants to ensure that Sightline will give AMC viewers the best experience possible.

“While every seat at AMC delivers an amazing moviegoing experience, we know there

are some moviegoers who prioritize their specific seat and others who prioritize value moviegoing,” Hamlisch said. “Sightline at AMC accommodates both sentiments to help ensure that our guests have more control over their experience, so that every trip to an AMC theater is a great one.”

Michael Eaton, professor of film, said he does not have much faith in this new strategy.

“I honestly think this strategy will backfire,” Eaton said. “I also believe that it is likely being driven by investors and board members of the company who nearly declared bankruptcy a few years ago during the pandemic.”

Tania Brooks, freshman film production major, does not agree with the new system as she thinks it will negatively impact moviegoers’ experience.

“This could ultimately a ect how many people want to go to the theater,” Brooks said. “As a person who really loves going to the theater, I know that one ticket is already more expensive than they used to be. I do not see why there should be an adjustment in cost. Everyone has a di erent opinion for which seating area is the best, so to make someone pay more or less based on locations seems unreasonable.”

The new seating arrangement will change how we see movies and how much we are willing to pay for the best seat. With massive box o ce-earning franchises like Marvel and Avatar, what will it look like in the future for those ticket sales?

“I think that they are really banking on the fact that Avatar and the Marvel franchise movies are going to bring in full houses,” said Dr. Melissa Croteau, professor of film studies and literature. “Do I think it

will a ect the ticket sales of big blockbusters? Probably not.”

While big franchise movies most likely will not be hit by this new Sightline system, the smaller, independent movies may not fare well.

“I think the movies that are not very popular would have more of a problem with people wanting to see it in the theater because of the location seat prices,” Brooks said.

With the new seating arrangements, is it a good idea to have tier-level seating?

APP OF THE ISSUE Forest a

KEY FEATURES

“While it seems like it might work to use the concert ticket model of di erent pricing for movie ticket sales, it’s a major adjustment for the consumer in an already struggling industry,” Eaton said.

According to Investor Place, it is possible that AMC might go bankrupt. Through the pandemic, it has been di cult for movie theaters to bounce back. This new system could help them stay further and further away from shutting the doors.

“Already there was a step

WHY I LIKE IT

I

toward this hierarchy of pricing when most of the major theater chains including AMC started to have patrons choose their seat when they purchased their tickets,” Croteau said. “I think this step ladder to where AMC is at with establishing this new pricing structure was the ‘choose your own seat’ model, which has become more popular.”

The Sightline system is just an extension of the “choose your own seat” model but with a tier system of di erent prices.

“I think it’s not good for customers,” Brooks said. “It will be good for AMC Theatres, but I do not like the change they are trying to make.”

This change to how movies are viewed at AMC could change the future of how other theaters function across the nation.

“If AMC does this and it works, then everyone will follow suit because they are the biggest chain in the country,” Croteau said. “If it makes them able to keep the doors

Justice Department sues Google over online advertizing monopoly

BY JASMINE SEVERI B&T EDITOR

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against Google for allegedly monopolizing digital advertising technology as of late January.

The complaint claimed that Google has been deliberately dominating the digital advertising technology market by buying out competitors to neutralize or eliminate them.

In the DOJ’s statement issued Jan. 24, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said the DOJ will do everything it can to ensure that the free market is free for all and not controlled by a monopoly, no matter what the industry in question is.

“(The Jan. 24) complaint alleges that Google has used anticompetitive, exclusionary and unlawful conduct to eliminate or severely diminish any threat to its dominance over digital advertising technologies,” Garland said. “No matter the industry and no matter the company, the Justice Department will vigorously enforce our antitrust laws to protect consumers, safeguard competition and ensure economic fairness and opportunity for all.”

Some of Google’s alleged conduct in dispute includes buying out competitors, forcing website publishers to adopt Google’s tools, distorting auction competition and manipulating the auctions, according

to the statement.

“(Google has been) limiting real-time bidding on publisher inventory to its ad exchange, and impeding rival ad exchanges’ ability to compete on the same terms as Google’s ad exchange,” the DOJ said in its statement. “(They have also been) manipulating auction mechanics across several of its products to insulate Google from competition, deprive rivals of scale and halt the rise of rival technologies.”

ness administration major said he thinks it is not surprising that Google would monopolize the digital advertising market, or any market it can.

Merrick B. Garland U.S. Attorney General

“Sounds like a power move to me,” Daniel said. “From a moral standpoint, it’s not good, but from a business standpoint, it’s good in that sense.. A lot of people don’t have moral lines anymore. When you get that big in the business, things like that are obviously going to happen. But if you can do something about it, cool.”

Jessica Dreschler, junior civil engineering major, said she thinks Google should sponsor small companies instead of completely taking them over.

“That makes me lose a lot of trust in Google,” Dreschler said. “I think they should be supporting small businesses and helping small businesses grow. Google already has a name for itself and it will be successful no matter what.”

Rhett Daniel, senior busi-

This is not the first lawsuit against the tech giant for monopolizing online advertising, as a similar but distinct suit was filed in 2020 for monopolizing search and search advertising.

In addition to the DOJ, the attorneys general of eight states will be participating in the lawsuit, including the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, New York and Tennessee. The trial will take place in September.

Photo by Charissa Graves | Banner

Sightline, AMC’s new pricing model, is meant to provide viewers with more control over their movie experience, although it is facing some criticism from customers who do not wish to pay a premium fee.

“

(The Jan. 24) complaint alleges that Google has husd anticompetitive, exclusionary and unlawful conduct to eliminate or severely diminish any threat to its dominance over digital advertising technology

Ticketmaster parent company sued after Taylor Swift concert debacle

BY MIKEALA ALDREDGE ASST. B&T EDITOR

Taylor Swift announced in November her long awaited Eras Tour, a five-month cross-country tour with multiple musical guests. Along with this announcement, dates for pre-sale code registration were announced by Ticketmaster.

More than 3.5 million fans registered for a verified fan code, according to Ticketmaster, but on the day of the pre-sale, it all came crashing down.

Ticketmaster distributed more codes than expected, and as a result its website crashed and stadiums sold out before the general sale had even begun. The situation left fans who had codes but did not receive the chance to get tickets devastated. It also left no chance for fans who relied on the general sale to get tickets.

Amelia Brenes, junior political science and Christian studies double major, was one of the fans attempting to snag tickets with a pre-sale code.

“It was the most stressful experience in my life,” Brenes

said. “It felt unorganized. They sent out too many codes. When you were in the queue, it would kick you out. When it happened, Ticketmaster gave up.”

On Jan. 24, the Senate began a hearing questioning Ticketmaster and its parent company, Live Nation Entertainment, after many Taylor Swift fans began to protest and sue Live Nation over the pre-sale fiasco, according to The New York Times.

A CNN article about the hearing stated that Live Nation president and CFO Joe Berchtold said he blames the situation in part on bots. He said the website got hit with three times more tra c than it normally has. However, CNN reported that there is no evidence of bots being the problem.

“In this specific instance, the interference of the bots as described by the CEO in hearings held in Congress recently could have been an uncontrolled variable,” said Dr. Greg Bowden, professor of organizational leadership. “We have noted that the malware epi-

demic online has a ected us all. With the increase in spam, phishing and DDOS on the various web services we have experienced recently, all online vendors are struggling with the validity and authenticity of the digital communications they receive.”

Ticketmaster is known to dominate the ticketing industry, as they are larger than other ticket companies, such as SeatGeek. CEO of SeatGeek Joe Groetzinger told Congress what he thinks about Live Nation Entertainment.

“Live Nation controls the most popular entertainers in the world, routes most of the large tours, operates the ticketing systems and even owns many of the venues,” said Groetzinger during the hearing. “This power over the entire live entertainment industry allows Live Nation to maintain its monopolistic influence over the primary ticketing market.”

Groetzinger also said that venues are afraid to lose Live Nation’s partnership if they do

not use Ticketmaster for their ticket sales. Although Groetzinger said that venues are afraid to lose such a powerful company, Berchtold said that they do not place a number of tickets and how much the tickets will be, it is up to the venues.

Dr. Kenneth Minesinger, professor of law, shared his opinion on whether Ticketmaster and Live Nation are a monopoly.

“That’s really for the courts to decide, assuming the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) determines their conduct violates the FTC Act, Sherman Act or Clayton Act,” Minesinger said.

The Federal Trade Commission Act prevents unfair methods of competition and creates rules to prevent that.

The Sherman Antitrust Act outlaws monopolization and the Clayton Antitrust Act prohibits mergers to prevent the creation of a monopoly. All of these acts could be used in court against Ticketmaster and Live Nation Entertainment.

Bowden said that Ticketmaster and Live Nation’s hold

on the industry has taken the power of the music industry away from artists.

“With the development of the internet and the free distribution opportunities of digital files, performing artists have lost control of their artistic creations, and the chance to perform live concerts has been monetized to the benefit of the production and talent companies,” Bowden said.

In the end, consumers are the ones paying the price. Presale code holders were not guaranteed tickets, but with such a demand for a popular artist like Swift, too many codes were given out.

Toward the end of the hearing, no easy answers emerged about how this situation can be fixed and what to do to prevent it from happening again. However, Minesinger o ered some potential solutions.

“The performers could demand change to protect consumers, or Congress and the FTC could enact additional regulation,” Minesinger said.

“I’m not sure how e ective either would be and might have the unintended consequence of driving up costs.”

The hearings are still continuing with no verdict for Ticketmaster and Live Nation yet. This problem could continue in the future, with other high-demand artists and tours like Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour on sale during February. This fiasco could determine the future of ticket sales not just for companies but for consumers as well.

“This example mirrors the model of Je Bezos — to look at complex systems and use the power of technology to automate and create savings from an economy of scale,” Bowden said. “So it comes down to this: Are the fans more willing to lose convenience and have more sites and steps to access their favorite artists’ performances, or will convenience take the day and require regulation to ensure an equitable access experience for all? I think we are all waiting for the answer to that question.”

*Information according to Billboard

The monopoly of Live Nation Entertainment and Ticketmaster has brought in record high revenue sales.

OUTCOME

Consumers cannot get tickets to the artists they want to see. There is an unlevel playing field for ticket companies trying to make it to Live Nation and Ticketmaster’s level, but they can not reach it.

Emily McGinn | Banner

These laundry detergent pods use non-toxic, fully-dissolving polyvinyl alcohol to clean clothes. While some detergent pods use plastics that do not entirely dissolve, Dropps pods do, which ensures no microplastics are produced. The Dropps packaging is also made of cardboard that is entirely compostable and recyclable.

BY KRISTIE WISEMAN ASST. B&T EDITOR

It is estimated that over two billion people across the world su er from vision problems, according to an article from healthnews.com. Additionally, 14 million people have been diagnosed with a neuromuscular disorder and struggle with mobility impairments, and chronic pain has been reported by more than 50 million people.

What do all these things have in common? Each has been positively impacted by bionic technology. Dr. Seung-Jae Kim, professor of bioengineering, said bionic technology can be described as the application of engineering in medicine.

“We use technology and engineering to develop something that can restore, assist or augment the functions of the human body,” Kim said. “The objective is to improve motor or sensory functions for people with disabilities and to enhance general human performance.”

One recent advance in the realm of bionic technology is neural prosthetics. These devices use our natural neural pathways to return sight to those with vision problems.

electrodes that are implanted in the brain, optic nerve or eye. The electrodes then stimulate the functional visual pathway, allowing the individual to perceive light. At this point, the technology is unable to allow the individual to see in color. Their sight will be limited to shades of black and white. However, it is still enough to provide a meaningful image.

As the field of bionic technology continues to grow, new advances could allow color perception in neural prosthetics. It could also improve the use of exoskeletons, a wearable device for people struggling with movement impairments, such as neuromuscular disorders or spinal cord injuries. Movement becomes much more feasible with an exoskeleton reminiscent of the beloved Iron Man suit.

beyond helping those with disabilities.

“Advanced robotic technology will be integrated into the development of the exoskeleton, which can be used not only for the purpose of restoring lost body functions, but it also makes industrial labor much easier to do,” Kim said. Bionic technology has great potential to improve motor and sensory functions for people with disabilities. It can also ease the strain of manual labor, preventing associated injuries.

Where to buy: for a subscription to a 64-pack of stain and odor detergent pods

dropps.com, Amazon

Emily McGinn | Banner

“Retinal implants provide means to electrically stimulate the remaining nerve cells in the retina,” Kim said. “An external camera mounted on glasses converts the visual image to an appropriate electrical stimulation delivered to an array of electrodes implanted in the retina. The stimulation makes the brain perceive patterns of light, but not color.”

Bionic eyes consist of small

Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California are working on just that. Their design would allow the individual to not only walk again, but also feel each step, according to an article in Trojan Family Magazine. These suits are currently being tested on a select group of volunteers. If successful, this suit would give people the chance to do something we often take for granted: walk.

The uses of the suit extend

“As (bionic technology) is further developed, it has the potential to limit risk factors associated with systems that require a physical operation,” said Josiah Norrie, senior mechanical engineering major. “This would particularly be true for the manufacturing industry.” This is just the tip of the iceberg. Bionic technology is being used to make artificial limbs more sensitive, cochlear implants — an implant to help with hearing — more e ective, chronic pain more manageable and much more.

“As bionic technology continues to develop, its limits will continue to grow,” Kim said. “With this technology, we should make clear standards for what to do and what not to do. I hope that Christians will contribute and help set a noble standard for this.”

“

We use technology and engineering to develop something that can restore, assist or augment the functions of the human body.

Dr. Seung-Jae Kim, Professor of bioengineering

Black representation evolves in Hollywood

BY ZERENITY LOPEZ A&E EDITOR

For decades, America has found entertainment from many media sources. As the country adapted socially to monumental events like the Civil Rights movement in the 1960s, film and television followed suit.

African-American representation in film has made strides, especially in recent years with films like “Black Panther” (2018) and “The Hate U Give” (2018) or even television series like “Raising Dion” (2019-22).

However, even with this increase in representation, there is still room to improve by representing the many aspects of the Black community. Representation of Black characters was 65.8% in TV series pre-pandemic and 70.5% post-pandemic, according to diversityinc.com. Roles for Black actors in films also increased from 56.1% to 58.7%.

Black representation in the media is integral for the youth of the community as young minds may struggle to relate to characters portrayed on

screen. It was rare to see a television series or film with a Black actor in a lead role instead of the supporting sidekick for much of cinematic history. For Dr. Kenya Davis-Hayes, professor of history, that all changed for her in the 1980s.

“My first, if not the strongest, would be ‘The Cosby Show,’ coming out in the ’80s,” Davis-Hayes said. “It was the idea of a well-o Black family. When ‘The Cosby Show’ came out, I think their youngest, Rudy, and I were the same age. It was interesting to watch a show with someone who I felt looked like me as a small child. Growing up alongside her for so many seasons is my first strong memory.”

Growing up watching blockbuster films made it apparent that, for a long time, Hollywood was not always for everyone. As the industry has progressed, we have seen more representation emerging in various ways. At the same time, there are still “Black films,” as Davis-Hayes refers to them, like “Think Like A Man” (2012) and “The Color Purple” (1985), which are geared toward a specific audience. The industry

has transitioned from placing Black actors in these categorical roles outside the Black film industry. There has been a rise of Black actors taking to the screen in films produced by companies like Marvel or Disney. It seems as though it is no longer a question of whether this role can be played by a Black actor, but will it?

TV shows with Black actors as the lead–without the plot’s main focus being their racial struggle– can be rare.

One of the most recent and shocking castings to the Black community in memory is the casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel in the not yet released live-action “Little Mermaid” (2023). There was much controversy surrounding the casting choice of this role, considering that Ariel is portrayed as Caucasian in the animated film.

“I feel that Hollywood hasn’t done the best job in representing Black actors in film and TV,” said Jasmine Burks, freshman business major. “I do think that as time progresses, there are a good amount of Black actors, but the representation is not at yet at the high-

est standard.” Another avenue that films tend to take when casting Black actors is, of course, in movies about African-American history. Films like “12 Years A Slave” (2013) and “Harriet” (2019) highlight and tell the story of slavery, and “Hidden Figures” (2016) shows the struggle that women in the workplace faced during segregation. These films are considered to be under the umbrella of Black film since, more often than not, they are created from the visions of Black folk.

“We have the Black historical drama — so ‘12 Years A Slave,’ ‘Glory,’ ‘Harriet’ — you know, all of these movies that I would argue probably go back to ‘Roots’ in the 1970s, and then all of a sudden, there is this market for a Black historical film,” Davis-Hayes said. “So when we look at those films, I think about them in two ways. On the one hand, I think that a lot of people behind those projects are Black, at least to a certain degree. And so you’ve got Black folks saying this is a part of our history, this is a part of our national legacy and people need to be reminded of that.”

“My rst, if not the strongest, [memory] would be ‘The Cosby Show,’ coming out in the ‘80s. It was the idea of a well-off Black family. When ‘The Cosby Show’came out, I think their youngest, Rudy, and I were the same age. It was interesting to watch a show with someone who I felt looked like me as a small child. Growing up alongside her for so many seasons is my rst strong memory. Dr. Kenya Davis-Hayes, Professor of history

Although representation in Hollywood has increased over time, there are still gaps where parts of the community are not being represented to the fullest extent.

Even now, a majority of lead roles for Black women are fulfilled by light-skinned Black actresses.

While that does represent an aspect of the community, Black actresses of a darker skin tone are often less represented. Davis-Hayes said it is rare to see actresses such as Regina King or Viola Davis play the softer roles of a princess or main love interest in a romance film.

“Instead, Black female actresses of darker skin are often categorized as “strong Black women.”

“Even though there are a good amount of Black actors and actresses, the representation is not necessarily to the standard to which it should be,” Burks said. “For example, Zendaya is one of the main [source of] Black representation in Hollywood, but she does not carry all of the traits that represent the Black community.”

As the media continues to learn and adapt alongside the Black community, there is a plethora of content to be produced.

Pinterest app acts as a digital diary

BY ZERENITY LOPEZ A&E EDITOR

pictures. Pins are created and re-pinned to speci c boards created by each user. e search page makes it easy for users to nd speci c pins and similar posts. e platform creates a personalized home feed by using previous pins and nding similar content, according to the Pinterest Help Center. ere are also settings that can be used to ne tune your home feed.

“I like it better than the typical social media app, if you can call them that,” said Alden Plunk, junior anthropology major. “ ere is no pressure behind posting because the odds of someone seeing your content are slim to none.” e rise of in uencers has made posting on social media sites competitive by nature. With Pinterest’s ambiguity, users nd it to be a haven where they can pin photos and ideas that encapsulate the lives they have imagined for themselves in

Among all social media platforms, Pinterest is the least mentioned. is hidden gem of a social site is a hub for creativity and is rarely used to its full potential. Pinterest has collaboration aspects that allow a broader scope of the content. e application provides the feel of a digital diary that was not achieved on sites like Instagram or Facebook.

While, at its core, Pinterest has similar qualities to Instagram, the latter has transformed into something more performative than personal. Instagram tends to create an atmosphere where its users feel the need to create content for their audience rather than for themselves.

Pinterest allows its users to create and view other pins in the form of

their heads.

One of the best attributes of Pinterest is how it encourages its users to romanticize life. Taking photos of everyday events like lunch or the out t of the day can seem trivial to most, but for the average Pinterest user it is gold.

Sharing these simple pleasures is what makes Pinterest such a special social media site: there is no judgment in what you post. Repinning other posts and organizing them into boards is a therapeutic pastime that makes users view their pro les as a digital vision board. Seeing one’s interests through the lens of their Pinterest home feed can make life feel more vibrant.

Pinterest is most popularly known for the

Film students and their favorite lms

inspiration it provokes. It is the go-to social networking site when planning events, decorating apartments and even getting dressed in the morning. e content is endless as each user’s home page is netuned based on their niche interests.

Ambar Williamson, senior nutrition and food sciences major, has had Pinterest since 2013. She said she uses the app almost daily, drawing inspiration for her daily life. Most recently, she was able to use Pinterest to help her gain inspiration for arguably the most important day of a person’s life–her wedding.

Pinterest’s many uses and adaptability is the main appeal of the app. e idea of a digital diary is o en misinterpreted. e romanticization of life through social media is rare phenomenon only possible

"I believe CBU students should watch it because the set design is incredible, the film shows the strength that film has to help us see the truth in ourselves."

Junior Alexis Miller

“Surprises are revealed along the way, but the main message is always to have faith in God.”

Sophomore

Christian Contreras

“The film is truly a beautiful story of overcoming trauma and abuse and learning to be vulnerable with people who genuinely love and care about you.”

Junior Alyssa White

“I’d highly recommend the watch for anyone who appreciates realism in film.”

Senior Michael Metzler

Jr.

“I love this movie because it is just breathtaking to look at. The animated film is one of few that’s just eye candy which I feel like animation doesn’t capture that often.”

Senior Ian Carson

Zerenity Lopez | Banner

Photos courtesy of Zerenity Lopez | Banner

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Trader Joe’s art sets store apart

BY SARAH MURPHY

The atmosphere inside grocery stores can greatly affect the shopping experience. While most stores may have bland, white walls, Trader Joe’s is the exception. Funky artwork decorates the walls and creative signs enliven the produce shelves. Although shopping may seem boring, it is a fun adventure for Trader Joe’s customers.

Grace Letherer, sophomore art education major, loves Trader Joe’s because the cheerful artwork and friendly workers make shopping a relaxing activity.

“The overall style and vibe of Trader Joe’s is very summery and it helps you to take a load o and enjoy shopping,” Letherer said. “I feel like a lot of other grocery stores have gray walls and basic shelves, but all of the little signs Trader Joe’s has are decorated and the employees are so fun.”

This theme extends to the helpful product signs on the shelves. Colorful signs point out the price or name of the product and are decorated with personalized artwork. A team of artists does this at each store location.

Daniel Kaufman is the lead sign person at Trader Joe’s in Riverside, along with two more

trained sign artists on his team. He majored in fine art in college and always loved shopping at Trader Joe’s. He has worked at three di erent Trader Joe’s locations in the last 16 years and has been making sign art at the Riverside Plaza location for the last year and a half.

“Every day, we are making more signs,” Kaufman said. “Usually the first thing we do in the morning is walk through the store sections and make sure all products have their proper sign. The store products constantly shift, so signs will get lost or just go missing. It is our job to either find the missing signs or make a new one.”

Each product in the store requires an accurate handdrawn sign with a large, discernible price listed. However, Trader Joe’s designers will reuse templates and boards for the bigger signs.

“Signs for these displays are drawn, displayed, then erased when they come down so we can reuse the same boards for the next display,” Kaufman said. “It is best that we do not get emotionally attached to the display signs we create because they are all temporary.”

The quick turn around can add pressure to store designers, however. This job requires flexibility around time constraints and a limited workspace, so organization is crucial. Despite

these stressors, creating sign art can be relaxing.

“There is a bit of monotony to doing signs that I find comforting,” Kaufman said. “The job requires a good eye for detail and the ability to come up with innovative solutions for signing products.”

There is a tremendous amount of e ort put into making Trader Joes’ atmosphere special. The imaginative artwork of the design team ensures that each store stands out.

“Traders Joe’s loves the hand-drawn style of signs,” Kaufman said. “In this day and age when computers have taken over, that is a rare thing indeed. I hope they never get rid of that unique element.”

Allie Stoner, freshman psychology major, said she prefers shopping at Trader Joe’s because of its lively atmosphere, which other stores do not have.

“There is a community that shops at Trader Joe’s,” Stoner said. “It is a specific community like you have the Walmart community, you have the Target community, you have Vons and then you have Trader Joe’s. Trader Joe’s feels more personal. The art is just very unique to them.”

All Trader Joe’s stores have a similar theme, but each adds personal flair that reflects the creativity of its store designers.

Van Buren Drive-in stays standing

filmmaker Bart Johnson, better known for his role as Coach Bolton from “High School Musical.”

Drive-in movie theaters have been around since about 1910, but the first patented drive-in was established in 1933, according to the New York Film Academy. Driveins are popular as go-to places for families to take their little ones, couples to go out for date night or friends to have a fun outing.

Mission Tiki Drive-In Theater and Swap Meet in Montclair, Calif., closed on Jan. 23.

The Mission Tiki Drive-in posted on Instagram to announce their closure and encourage their loyal customers to visit the Van Buren Drive-in Theater and Swap Meet on Van Buren Boulevard, which is a 12-minute drive from CBU.

Fans of Mission Tiki Drivein flooded their post with comments expressing sadness about its closure. Among these commenters was actor and

TREND ALERT

BOOTS

As winter slowly transitions into spring, students are wearing boots in all di erent fashions. On campus, the typical indie-hipster rocks a Doc Marten with the occasional platform. For a more Western motif, Lancers bring a taste of Texas with cowgirl and cowboy boots. Emerging from the basement of Old James where Communication Arts students linger, tall leather boots help weather the storm.

tice isolation and social distancing.

“This is one of the treasures of Los Angeles!! It can’t close!” Johnson wrote in his comment on the post.

This leisurely activity is an experience many students on campus may not have had. Luckily, for students who live on campus or in the vicinity, Van Buren Drive-in Theater is still up and running, o ering newly released films and older movies alike.

Tristan Ryan, sophomore biochemistry and molecular biology major, had not been to a drive-in theater in years after the first couple of times he had gone with his family.

“It is cool to go back now,” Ryan said. “It is nostalgic.” Drive-in theaters are not the typical place to go to catch a quick flick, but coming out of the pandemic, drive-ins were a great spot for people to prac-

“I did not know that drivein theaters were still a thing until COVID-19,” said Emme Buhl, senior English major. “I heard about drive-in theaters because I would see them in old movies. During COVID, I wanted to go to drive-in theaters because it was one of the only open things you could do.”

Southern California lost a drive-in theater famous to the area, but the experience is not gone yet.

For those looking for a fun and private experience of nostalgia and comfort, the Van Buren Drive-In has the potential to deliver for students looking for activities to do around the area after 7:00 p.m.

While drive-ins may seem obsolete when competing with the usual sit-down movie theaters, it is a funky alternative that local students can still take advantage of. For more ifo visit the Van Buren Drive-in website.

EDITOR’S REVIEW

BY ZERENITY LOPEZ I A&E EDITOR

The 57th annual Super Bowl Halftime Show was headlined this year by none other than Rihanna. The Barbadian singer performed on Feb. 12 in Arizona– for her first live performance since 2016.

Rihanna shocked viewers not only with her monochromatic red outfit, but also with the announcement of her pregnancy. She began her stellar performance with her hit song “Better Have My Money,” which was accompanied by dozens of backup dancers. The set list for this performance was impeccable. She followed the song with an array of her top hits, including “Rude Boy,” “Work,” “Umbrella” and “Diamonds.”

Rihanna’s performance was memorable, especially since it was her first performance in a while, but some factors did not make it all I had expected. Presumably ue to her pregnancy, there was minimal choreography. While still dynamic, performances like the Super Bowl usually warrant a little more razzle-dazzle. However, what was lacking in dance performances was supplemented by a majority of the performance being on suspended

LVII Super Bowl Halftime Show

platforms with a complicated light show to match.

The combination of lights and an interesting set made for a performance that could send chills down the spine of any viewer at home. Rihanna shined brightly like a diamond as she took the stage and delivered when it came to vocals. She pushed through any physical fatigue as a pregnant woman and made any of her discomfort unapparent. The little choreography that she was part of shocked viewers as she moved with so much energy it made me wonder if her unborn child was dancing along with her.

Rihanna also made it a point to make a small nod toward her brand, Fenty Beauty, making a quick touch-up to her face in the middle of the performance. She later referred to this action as her “special guest.”

Rihanna’s performance was a great comeback after being away for so long. Her pregnancy announcement stole the show from the beginning and made her performance even more impressive.

4 out of 5 stars.

Charissa Graves | Banner

The Van Buren Drive-In offers a touch of nostalgia to Riverside residents, providing a fun and affordable alternative to traditional movie theaters.

Photo: Apple Music via superbowl.com

International student-athletes confront homesickness

BY FLORIAN LE PALLEC ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Leaving home and moving to a new city or country can be challenging for athletes as they must adapt to di erent factors such as social practices, cultural norms and climate. Since many athletes come from di erent places worldwide, they often have to deal with homesickness. One of the main consequences of homesickness is that it increases stress levels both on and o the field.

Karolina Iznerowicz, fitness graduate assistant at the Recreation Center, believes that the type of family athletes come from and how close they are to them determines how much they miss them.

“I know a lot of international athletes who are fine being here for (a long time) without seeing their families,” Iznerowicz said.

“Even though there are few foreign athletes I work with who are struggling with the distance, they would usually find a community of friends to not feel lonely.”

Some athletes want to return to their home country because it is hard for them to handle the distance without the direct support of their families. Other athletes simply miss the comfort of home. Iznerowicz knows how to interact and have friendly conversations

with them since she was also a international student-athlete.

“When it comes to interacting with international students, they have some sort of ‘easy flow,’” Iznerowicz said.

“We all know our struggles and di cult situations we face away from home. Therefore, we usually can understand each other well. Since I work in a place where all students are welcome — the Recreation Center — and my role is to serve others, I often meet international athletes with whom I can interact.”

Even though some athletes struggle with homesickness, some of them quickly adapt to their new environment with no di culties. Scherine Dahoue, a player on the women’s volleyball team and master’s of business administration student, said that she handles homesickness well, as she left home when she was 12 years old to play volleyball and pursue her education four hours away from home.

“It is easy to interact with family and friends,” Dahoue said. “I FaceTime my mom three to four times a day since she is my best friend. I call my friends and other family members weekly to keep them updated about my life. I also use social media to post pictures and videos such as Facebook and Instagram, so people can

feel part of my journey and stay in touch with what I am doing daily.”

Roman Zozulia, a member of the men’s cross-country and track team and master’s of business administration student, struggles with being far away from home.

“To tell the truth, I really miss my friends and family,” Zozulia said. “As I was born and raised in Ukraine, I have gone through many di cult moments in the past months. The more I stay here, the more I realize how important this state and country are for me and the people that I have.”

Home is on the mind even more for Zozulia, whose family and friends are facing the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“Realizing that my hometown is being bombed and knowing that my family is constantly in danger while I am having a fresh breakfast is terrifying,” Zozulia said. “I am trying to call my family at least once every two weeks, but it is sometimes hard to reach out to them because they do not always have a stable connection.”

Even though it can be di cult for athletes to be far away from home, they said they are grateful for the opportunity to study and compete at the highest level.

LANCER OF THE ISSUE

VIANNEY ALFARO, SENIOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE MAJOR AND MEMBER OF THE CHEER TEAM

Q: WHEN DID YOU FIRST START CHEER?

“I started cheerleading at 8 years old. It seemed fun and all the skills included in a routine were impressive, which made me motivated to try it out.”

Q: WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE CBU?

“I chose CBU because of its Christ-centered values. I was interested in close community when searching for schools and CBU felt like the perfect t. I chose the CBU cheer team because of its family atmosphere and dedicated, hardworking athletes. My teammates encourage me to become the best athlete I can be.”

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM CHEER?

“Winning our eighth national championship title. Not so much for the title but the feeling of sharing that moment with my teammates and knowing how hard we’ve worked all year to become the hardest working team in the nation.”

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD BEFORE A COMPETITION?

“I am more of a snacker on competition days. Gold sh and CheezIts are my go-to snacks to settle my nerves.”

WOMEN’S WATER POLO WINS TWO, LOSES TWO

The women’s water polo team played at the University of California, Davis Aggie Invite Tournament this past weekend. The Lancers played University of California, Berkeley and La Verne on Feb. 11. They played San Jose State and UC Davis on Feb. 12. The Lancers would fall to Berkeley in their first game of the tournament 5-19, but the Lancers won their second against La Verne, 25-13. However, the Lancers lost to San Jose State in their third game of the tournament 7-11, but they bounced back in their final game of the tournament against UC Davis.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR MUSIC OF CHOICE FOR A WORKOUT?

“Whatever genre Fall Out Boy is. Love that band. I like listening to rock music mostly so it feels like I’m training for an action movie.”

Q: WHAT IS AN OBSTACLE YOU HAVE OVERCOME IN YOUR ATHLETIC CAREER?

“The toughest obstacle to overcome is mind chatter. The mind is the greatest weapon in sports, but it can also be the biggest downfall if not trained. Throughout my athletic career I have struggled with a lot of self-doubt and negative talk. Learning to be mentally tough has helped me grow as an athlete and become more con dent in my abilities.”

WRESTLING PINS DOWN CAL STATE BAKERSFIELD

The CBU wrestling team avenged a loss earlier this season against Cal State Bakersfield, a PAC-12 team, with the score ending in a 23-17 win for the Lancers on Feb. 12. It was the Lancer’s third win this season and their second victory on the road this season. Some highlight performances were Chaz Hallmark, with three seconds on the clock, tying the match at eight by securing his riding time point. Frank Almaguer and Peter Acciardi dominated their competition to earn a technical fall and a significant decision for CBU, both achieving season highs for match points.

SOFTBALL KICKS OFF SEASON WITH NO-HITTER

The softball team started the season strong, playing at the Puerto Vallarta College Classic in Mexico from Feb. 9-11. The Lancers played North Carolina and the University of Wisconsin on Feb. 9, losing to North Carolina 2-3 in the tournament’s first game and beating Wisconsin in their second game of the day 2-0 in a historic no-hitter. The Lancers lost to North Dakota State in their third game on Feb. 10 with a final score of 0-4. On the last day of the tournament, the Lancers finished victorious in the final game of the tournament on Feb. 11, beating Maryland 2-1.

Elijah Hickman | Banner

Scherine Dahoue, women’s volleyball player and master’s of business administration student, says that she calls her family and friends often to fight homesickness.

Emily McGinn

LANCER ON THE STREET

Do you think general education classes are helpful? Why or why not?

Christian Vejar Kelly Jordan David Machado Taylor Wheatley Connor Bragg Freshman Sophomore Doctor of Psychology student Creative writing major Doctor of Psychology student Criminal justice major Business administration major Graduate student Senior Graduate student

“I would say it’s not useful because a lot of the classes are very similar to the classes you take in high school.”

DUELING

“Yes, I do because I feel like it’s a refresher of everything, and it’s the core that keeps everything together.”

“I do not because that’s what high school is for. By the time I’m moving into college, I already know what subjects I like.”

“Yes, I think they provide a lot of insight to a lot of people that might not know what they want to do.”

“I think it really depends on what you’re doing and if you know what you want to do.”

Co ee shops are worth it, even amid in ation

morphed into a valuable aspect of our lives.

Colleges should review effectiveness of GEs

and work more e ciently — coffee shops o er this ideal working environment for many of us.

BY EMILY MCGINN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As a college student, co ee has — for better or for worse — become a habit. I visit co ee shops around campus regularly and have, along with many others, witnessed the price of co ee-based drinks creeping up into the $5-6 zone, even for 12-ounce beverages. In 2022, a cup of co ee cost $4.90 on average, mainly due to inflation. While a leap in costs like this is far from ideal, co ee will still hold onto its portion of my budget because co ee culture has

DUELING

OPINIONS OPINIONS

Co ee culture, driven in large part by local independent co ee spots, has exploded in our generation. While the culture is relatively new, the principles that drive it are not. Humans are social creatures and, in every generation, they find ways to connect, though what this entails does change. Now, co ee has become an activity in which to participate more than a beverage to drink. You are not just paying for the drink; you are paying for the experience.

The importance of co ee shops in our culture is perhaps best displayed through what has been dubbed “the co ee shop e ect” — the idea that working in an environment like a co ee shop increases creativity and productivity, according to an article at Trello. I, along with many other people, tend to find my way to co ee shops over the weekend to finish work and study because of this phenomenon. The buzz of activity and the change of scenery can motivate people to complete tasks

Co ee shops also o er a much-needed social atmosphere, which I learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Until we were in a lockdown, it was di cult to comprehend how valuable it is to hear people conversing around me and to chat with the barista as I ordered. Now, co ee shops have once again become hubs of activity that can provide these simple yet much-needed social interactions.

Independent co ee shops are especially valuable in fulfilling this social need. Hearing my local barista ask if I want my “usual” and integrating co ee runs into my weekly routine help me organize my days and start o on the right foot.

Sure, I could brew my own co ee — which I sometimes do — but doing so takes the fun out of the journey (and the handcrafted beverages, unless I decide to invest in an espresso machine that costs hundreds of dollars). Focusing on the price

hike of co ee and blaming coffee shops for it is like blaming your local grocery store for the skyrocketing price of eggs — most of these businesses cannot help raising prices in the current economic climate. The prices might have increased, but you are receiving a much larger return on your payment than just a drink: valuable social interactions, the energy boost of going somewhere new and perhaps the best possible work environment. Isn’t a productive, happy day worth an extra dollar or so?

Of course, some will always argue that — even with all the perks — the co ee will never be worth the price. But if you go to Twee down the road from campus, you know sometimes the co ee really is that good.

Coffee shops are successful scams due to consumerism

BY JAMESON SHOWERS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Completing general education (GE) courses in college is something we know we must do. While some of these classes are helpful, many are similar to what students have learned in high school. Though GE courses help broaden the knowledge of the student population and develop critical thinking skills, the prices for those classes and the time to complete them add to the mountain of student debt. Universities across the nation should consider how GE requirements a ect students.

do not align with their destination can increase both their stress and loan costs.

On the other hand, GE classes give students the opportunity to explore subjects they did not think they would try or did not have exposure to in high school. The idea that an 18-year-old is supposed to choose a career field that will be a central feature of their lives for decades is unrealistic given their limited exposure to these fields. GEs o er that exposure and flexibility, allowing students to pivot in another direction. While this is advantageous, the classes still have a price tag attached to them, and it would be easier on a student’s finances if they took time o to figure out what they really want to do.

BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER MANAGING EDITOR

One of my favorite childhood memories is going to Starbucks. When I was little, my mom used to wake up my brother and I at the break of dawn, shu e us downstairs in our pajamas and drive us to Starbucks before we hit the best deals of the year at garage sales. My order was always the same, and it is one I still cherish to this day: an iced, unsweet green tea and a piece of banana bread. Before I knew how important co ee would be in helping me function on a day-to-day basis as I grew older — let alone even knowing what it tasted like — I had a soft spot carved out for Starbucks, the most famous co ee shop in the world. However, I soon began to

realize that this co ee shop was something that should be considered a luxury. I distinctly remember reading in some teen drama novel that the main character was teased by her friends for throwing away her expensive cup of Starbucks without finishing it. As a result of this, I started paying attention to prices. The next time we went through the line and I ordered my strawberry frappuccino, I made a mental note of the price and cherished every last sip. After all, there was no way that I would be able to a ord this $5 drink when I was older.

But then I got to high school.

Side note — I firmly believe that co ee culture kicks in during high school. This was the case for me. Getting a co ee and bringing it to school was as much a part of your look as your Uggs. Every high school is di erent, and at mine, Dutch Bros was the Chanel of the coffee brands. People would swarm to find out what flavor of co ee slush someone had gotten that day. The catch? It was an expensive accessory. Whereas I had considered a $5 Starbucks to be a pretty penny, Dutch Bros ranged from $6-9. I didn’t really understand the hype, but I figured it must just be that people really love their co ee. It wasn’t until I was out delivering an Uber order that I

realized buying co ee is about so much more than the co ee. I was picking up a $20 Uber order consisting of just one co ee from Dutch Bros and trying to wrap my head around how anyone could justify the buy when I came to the conclusion that no one really wants co ee that bad — they want the satisfaction.

Although this answer might seem obvious, my next question would be: why co ee? It seems like such a random item to give so much weight and purpose. “I need my Starbucks.” “Have you tried Peet’s?” “The Dutch Bros line is so long but so worth it.” Of course, there’s the reason that co ee is something most everyone has in common, so it makes for an easy conversation starter. But would you really pay that much to have a discussion topic ready to go?

People pay the price for their co ee, no matter what it is, because it speaks about who they are. Are you a go-getter who orders their Starbucks on the app, or are you a small-business supporter who goes to the local family-owned cafe even though it costs an extra $1.75 for one shot of vanilla? I admit, on days when I’m feeling down, I almost always buy myself a drink. Sure, my hair may look awful and I may be on the verge of a breakdown, but if I have my vanilla latte in my hand, I am ready to

take on that breakdown. If I’ve had a good day? Let’s go get an iced co ee to prove to myself that nothing can stop me, as these two extra shots have my back.

Sure, you could make the argument that you pay the price you pay because you enjoy the environment of co ee shops. But I’d point out that there are lots of beautiful parks and libraries that are free. You could make the argument that the co ee really just is that good. But I’d point out that if you loved the co ee that much, you could ask for the beans that they use and brew it yourself.

I’m not making the argument that we shouldn’t go to co ee shops and use them as ways of making us feel or look good. If there was an Urth Ca é next to my house, I’d probably be broke. I’m making the argument that no matter what, coffee is just beans and water, and paying $6 for it is never justifiable for the co ee alone. Let’s stop trying to come up with excuses for paying that price because it’s ‘just that good,’ and admit that co ee prices are a scam. They are a scam that works and will always work because we are humans. We will pay for things that make us look good or feel good, especially if they are socially acceptable and commendable.

I recently came back from living in Germany for three years, and throughout my time there, I befriended a few of the locals. Often, they would bring up American education and how we require our college students to take a myriad of general education courses to graduate, as this was not the case in the European system.

After doing some research, I found that it is standard for German universities to o er significantly fewer GE courses in their degree programs. In addition to paying lower tuition for public universities, these students also graduate in less time. I wondered what this might look like in America.

How many transfer students have you met that went to a community college for GE classes? Going to community college is a common practice to reduce tuition expenses and eventual student loans. In fact, more than three of every four community college students plan to transfer to a university, according to The Public Policy Institute of California.

And tuition is not getting any cheaper. Over the past 20 years, tuition has increased more than any other service besides hospital care, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Soaring expenses make students think twice about what degree path they want to pursue, especially if they must also work jobs outside of coursework, and courses that

Restructuring GE requirements would make it possible to obtain your bachelor’s degree in two years instead of four. The extra two years would push graduates into the workforce sooner and allow them more time to scale up in their career field at a younger age. Working earlier would also benefit those who have accrued student loan debt and do not want to spend the rest of their lives paying it o . Students may become more specialized and lose the broader knowledge they would have picked up in GE courses, but the trade-o could work well for those who have direct ambitions in their career field.

Shortening the degree path can also help with student burnout and dropout rates: It is much easier to get through the papers, presentations and homework if students know they only have to get through two years and if they enjoy their courses. The current national college dropout rate is at 32.9%, with California residents 46.5% more likely to drop out during their undergraduate program due to financial sacrifice and stress, according to Education Data Initiative. Reducing the size of degree programs across the board could o er a win-win situation for students and universities.

If a student wants to take extra classes to extend their education, that should be their choice. It should fall on the high schools to o er general education. It’s also true that everyone’s high school education is di erent, which is a debate for another time, but mandating knowledge and financial redundancies with GE classes should be reevaluated. Going back to the drawing board and reexamining America’s educational priorities would help to fix some of the issues we are experiencing today.

“ The prices might have increased, but you are receiving a much larger return on your payment than just a drink.

Black History Month

Cartoons by Carly Brunner and Santos Garcia