Banner | Vol. 72 Issue 3

CBU debuts new study space, e Palm

BY GABI RIGGIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

California Baptist University unveiled a new study space and welcomed a new dining option to campus on Monday, Feb. 17. A long line of students eagerly anticipating the new space stretched down the sidewalk leading up to the building. A crowd of eager and hungry students gathered outside the doors of The Palm, which features Einstein Bros. Bagels, a popular chain offering freshly made bagels, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.

Inside, a large room was decked in CBU colors, from the chairs to the walls. The space bustled with students sitting along the counters outlining the study area, while various tables and couches filled the floor. Even the smaller backroom, as well as outdoor seating, offered a decent selection of chairs and spaces.

Einstein Bros. Bagels operated within the establishment as a coffee and food bar where students could easily order from self-ordering kiosks located at the front and outside of the building. A variety of options were available, from different types of cream cheese to a plethora of coffee and drink choices.

Ramiro Martin, assistant director of operations for Provider Contract Food Service, ex-

plained the project’s timeline.

“We started working on the project, I would say, about six months ago... [CBU] let us know this was going to be an office or study space, and they wanted us to offer some sort of coffee and food. So it came rather quickly.”

Excitement for The Palm was evident in students’ positive feedback at the opening and their enthusiasm for the new space, which not only provided a comfortable environment for productivity but also a convenient place to grab a meal on the way to class.

Mia Maspers, architecture graduate student, shared her excitement about experiencing the new area in her final year.

“I actually feel really lucky that this opened before I graduate so I could experience it.

But it’s nice, the lighting is really nice... it’s a nice place to study, there are outlets everywhere. It has a nice buzz to it.”

Maspers also mentioned her favorite food item.

“I like the cinnamon sugar bagel with the honey almond cream cheese; I’m from England, so they don’t do stuff like that.”

The response to The Palm was overwhelmingly positive, as students consistently lined up for their orders, eager to enjoy the new dining options on campus.

Wallace eatre presents e Book of Will

BY ALANNA RIVERA A&E EDITOR

Presented by California Baptist University’s Wallace Theatre, Lauren Gunderson’s “The Book of Will” will take the stage with an opening weekend set for Friday, Feb. 21.

The play takes place three years after the death of Shakespeare and followed Henry Condell and John Heminges. The two men, played by students Kaleb Bravo and Santino Alvarado, embarked on a complex journey as they compiled their late friend’s stories into the “First Folio” to ensure they were not lost forever.

Zachary Bortot, director and producer of this year’s spring play, gave audience members an idea of what to expect while keeping details of the production close to his chest.

“They can expect a ‘dramedy.’ It is based on historical events but takes great artistic license with how that story is told,” Bortot said. “Also, while this play is the one set furthest in the past of all our productions this season, it feels the most contemporary in style. This is not a stuffy history piece.”

As the third production of

this academic year, the audience could expect another performance that exemplified this season’s theme: “Artists Celebrated in Their Fields.” In addition to the unique storytelling of a seemingly well-known man, Bortot expressed themes of “love, loss and laughter,” as

performed by CBU’s talented and hardworking student actors. As the cast neared the play’s opening weekend, members spent most nights at the Wallace Theatre, whether taking promotional photos, trying on costumes or rehearsing.

On Feb. 11, the cast participated in the “Dress Parade,” a night when the actors tried on their Elizabethan-era costumes for the first time and the crew decided what alterations were needed before opening weekend. As actors poured out of the dressing room and parad-

ed down the stairs, gasps and cheers echoed in the theatre, exhibiting the cast’s camaraderie.

Just as the cast and crew supported one another backstage, the support remained onstage, where they learned from each other and built

their understanding of theater during rehearsals. Seth Suguitan, senior playing Richard Burbage, set the scene as he described how rehearsals typically ran.

“With rehearsals, there’s always gonna be some stops and goes, some choices you made that aren’t always gonna stick or land, so there’s always those, but then you have the directors and everyone around you kind of helping, giving suggestions” Suguitan said. This collaborative environment provided a safe space for the cast to learn from one another, grow in their careers as actors, and develop meaningful relationships.

Bravo, junior playing Henry Condell, described what the bonds audience members saw on stage looked like behind the scenes.

“It feels like family. Although they are our professors, and we do feel that, it feels more than that, so you get that connection, you get those teachings, those lessons, and it honestly makes it a joy every single day,” Bravo said. “It doesn’t go over my head that it’s truly a blessing.”

SEE A&E | PAGE 13

Arielle Rodriguez | Banner

The Palm, a new study spot located in Harden Square, features Einstein Bros Bagels and opened on Feb. 17, 2025.

Photo illustration by Arielle Rodriguez | Banner

The Wallace Theatre premiered The Book of Will on Feb. 21, 2015.

Arielle Rodriguez | Banner Students studying together at The Palm.

Natalie Tanaka | Banner

Einstein Bros Bagels now available at The Palm.

THE BANNER STAFF PRINT

Healing and Hope: A Faith-Based Approach to Homelessness in Riverside

BY ARIANNA BULTSMA NEWS EDITOR

Homelessness in Riverside County rose, yet so did efforts for stability within hope, healing and community. Faithbased organizations stepped up to provide not only resources but also restoration. From food pantries run by churches to formerly homeless individuals leading outreach efforts, faith and wellness intertwined in the recovery journey.

Asst Photo Editor Ami Nhawkar

Crossroads Christian Church, located in Corona, Calif., served those in need through its local outreach teams. The church helped stabilize individuals within these teams while showing God’s love, care and compassion. Joey Vargas, pastor of local outreach at Crossroads Church, worked closely with local communities.

To serve the community best, Crossroads adopted a partnership model. It partnered with experts in areas such as foster care and homelessness to best serve those in need. Vargas expressed how the church worked in a communal approach toward its service.

“We call it a wraparound approach. We have a partner with Path of Life out in Riverside; they help people move into apartments. What we do is we help them by supporting them with team members when they need it, as well as resources,” Vargas said.

Along with physically helping the community, speaking the word of God to those struggling helped many make the necessary decisions to get out of their situation.

Presenting hope that God was with all and that there was forgiveness with Him helped many nd sustainability in their lives.

Angela Hair, who once experienced homelessness and addiction, found freedom through her faith in God. With help from Crossroads and God, Hair and her husband saw the light at the end of the tunnel and launched a nonpro t called Angels Over Cliffs.

Hair recalled a night when she cried out to Jesus, sparking the start of her attending the Crossroads Church food pantry.

“The volunteers at that food pantry were loving us right where we were, in our mess and all. They started praying for us and teaching us how to pray,” Hair said.

After the Hairs attended church for the rst time on Dec. 1, 2018, they surrendered their hearts to God. With the peace of God, their depression and worry while being lost vanished. Soon after, they found a home. Even amid their homelessness and addiction, they knew they were going to do something to help others in similar situations.

Angela Hair later created Angels Over Cliffs, where the local community worked to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the homeless.

“Since 2019, we’ve connected over 300 people off the streets into housing of some sort. God is doing some amazing things. We have baptized over 60 people since 2019, close to 30 last year. God is using us in big ways,”

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Hair said. This faith-based approach to helping those experiencing homelessness shaped and healed many lives. Through the word of God, Vargas, Hair, and others within the church helped people feel loved and experience faith-driven healing.

For California Baptist University students and others locally, there were many ways to help serve people in need. Awareness was key in helping others. Knowing different resources, such as nonpro ts and homeless shelters, was bene cial in pointing those in need in the right direction.

Vargas also mentioned that as a faith community, praying was a signi cant way to get involved in helping the local community.

“Praying for these unhoused friends, saying hi to them. One of the biggest things people don’t realize is that homeless people feel invisible. Just saying hello, asking if they are having a good day—that could make a world of difference for somebody, that human connection,” Vargas said.

Angels Over Cliffs offers volunteer opportunities for those who wanted to help create change within the local community. More information could be found at angelsovercliffs.org.

As Riverside and other local communities continued working toward sustainable solutions to homelessness, faith-driven advocates reminded people that real change started not just with resources but with compassion.

Riverside’s historic landmarks, preserve city’s soul

BY GRACE BOUDREAU MANAGING EDITOR

Walking through downtown Riverside, past centuryold buildings and preserved districts, there was a distinct realization that these structures were more than just relics of the past—they were the heart of the city’s identity. But keeping them intact was no small feat.

Scott Watson, Riverside’s historic preservation of cer, played a key role in ensuring these landmarks stood the test of time.

“I think it’s important to understand that the city, in my role as a preservation of cer, we’re not actually out doing the work of the preservation, right?” Watson said. “We’re reviewing the work and making sure we’re going through the process of creating those landmarks, identifying them, taking them to the Cultural Heritage Board for review and approval.”

However, maintaining historic sites wasn’t just a matter of bureaucracy. The biggest challenge, according to Watson, was getting community buy-in.

“You have the property owners who own the historic properties. Some feel that they want to—you know, are absolutely proud to own a city landmark. Some are happy to maintain it. Others, when you’re talking to a home within a historic district, they may not necessarily see that their property is historic,” Watson said.

Riverside’s Title 20 historic preservation code outlined

what quali ed a site as a landmark, with criteria ranging from architectural signi cance to notable historical gures associated with a structure.

Some landmarks, such as the Mission Inn—the city’s rst designated landmark—were well known, but others, like the Chinatown archaeological site, preserved lesser-known but equally vital stories.

“So the way that we work, and my department works... we work a lot more based off of applications. We don’t actually create the projects. For the most part, we review them,” Watson explained.

Recently, his team reviewed the rehabilitation of the Cesar Chavez Center, a city landmark listed in the National Register of Historic Places. “Through that rehabilitation process, they had to go to the Cultural Heritage Board for review of their proposed modi cations.”

Dave Stilts, an advocate

for historic preservation in Riverside and president of Old Riverside, echoed Watson’s thoughts about the importance of education.

“Different people would give you different answers, but in my opinion, it’s awareness and kind of ghting against the cultural tide that values something new and shiny versus something that has a history,” Stilts said. “I believe that if people understood what makes these places so special and understood their value, they might feel more inclined to protect them.”

For Stilts, Riverside’s architecture was central to its character. “Culturally? I think our historic architecture, particularly in [the] downtown historic core, really helps de ne Riverside as a place,” he said. “A place that has a soul and has a history that we can talk about and share and is special.”

Watson agreed that preservation wasn’t about stopping progress but guiding it.

“Our job is not to stop change. It’s to help guide and direct change,” Watson emphasized. “It’s not about putting a glass bubble over things and preventing change. It’s how do we guide that change in a manner that’s respectful of history?”

Looking around Riverside, it was clear that historic properties created the city’s soul. Whether it was the iconic Mission Inn, the parent navel orange tree that shaped the citrus industry, or the structures that housed the stories of immigrant communities, these landmarks reminded people of the city’s roots. There was hope as Riverside continued to embrace its past, for future generations to walk these same streets surrounded by the echoes of history.

Courtesy of Angels Over Cliffs

Grace Boudreau | Banner

The Peter J. Weber House, located in Riverside.

California’s daylighting law aims to improve pedestrian safety

BY ELIJAH HERNANDEZ ASST. NEWS EDITOR

California’s Daylighting Law (AB 413) took effect on Jan. 1, 2025. The law made it illegal to park within 20 feet of a crosswalk or 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension. California has consistently led the way in environmental policies, and with its new daylighting law, the state took another signi cant step in transforming urban areas. The law aimed to improve safety by increasing visibility at intersections.

When discussing the new law, Cutter Rolfs, sophomore

mechanical engineering major, shared his thoughts on itspurpose and practicality.

“It seems interesting; there has to be a reason for it,” Rolfs said.

Safety was one of the law’s main goals, not only for pedestrians but also for drivers.

To help drivers, the average length of an automobile in the United States is approximately 14 feet. The law required about oneand-a-half car lengths of space at intersections. This rule applied only to the side of the road leading to the crosswalk. Cars parked at intersections or mid-block crossings where the

law prohibited parking were in violation and could receive tickets.

Many drivers on campus viewed this as a logical and bene cial safety measure, including Nicholas Castano, freshman theatre major.

“I don’t think anyone should be parking near an intersection, period,” Castano said.

How was this enforced? Previously, law enforcement could only issue warnings. However, as of this year, they could now issue citations. The community had to recognize that they could face penalties for violating this regulation,

regardless of signs or postings indicating restricted parking zones. The rule applied to both private and commercial vehicles.

In an interview with “Patch News”, the Beverly Hills Police Department emphasized its focus on public awareness.

“Throughout 2024, only warnings were issued for violations to allow time for public education and awareness,” BHPD stated.

While it may have felt like a new change for Calif., 43 other states had already implemented daylighting laws, with many prohibiting parking within 20 feet of intersection.

California urges push for Styrofoam ban

BY SHAELYNN VOIGTS ASST. NEWS EDITOR

As of Jan. 1, plastic foam, commonly referred to as Styrofoam, was banned in California and Oregon.

Often used for insulation, packaging and food containers, Styrofoam became widely used following its public introduction in the 1960s. An estimated three million tons of polystyrene, a similar material to Styrofoam, is produced annually.

For those who valued its convenience, the ban put users at a disadvantage. The lack of substitute materials made carrying food and drinks dif cult.

Nicole Gonzalez, senior architecture major, questioned the future of packaging without Styrofoam.

“Styrofoam cups are better in general. They keep your drink cold but don’t make your hands cold and have a better grip,” Gonzalez said.

With the ban, consumers were given alternative plastic or paper options for cups and containers, though these materials also have drawbacks.

However, the shift away from polystyrene was intended to bene t the environment.

Current statistics show that 25 billion Styrofoam cups are discarded annually in the United States. As a nonbiodegradable material, Styrofoam lingers in the environment, harming wildlife.

Ocean Conservancy, one of the many groups advocating for the ban, reported cleaning more than 750,000 pieces of plastic foam from coastlines each year.

Miranda Eddins, senior architecture major, expressed mixed feelings about removing Styrofoam.

“While I am glad the ban will help the environment, I am worried about the new material of choice. There must be a replacement with equivalent insulation,” Eddins said.

The Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, which led to the ban, was introduced in Calif. in 2023 as an alternative to an outright prohibition. Styrofoam manufacturers had until 2025 to reach a 25% recycling rate.

In Oregon, the ban took effect the same day and for items such as single-use coolers. Calif. and Oregon are on track toward a greener future. However, the full impact of removing this material on the economy and daily life remains to be seen.

Trump becomes the rst sitting President to attend the Super Bowl

BY ELIJAH HERNANDEZ ASST. NEWS EDITOR

The 47th president of the United States, Donald Trump, became the rst sitting president to attend the Super Bowl, marking a notable intersection of sports and politics.

NEWS BRIEFS

WRITTEN BY ARIANNA BULTSMA

THE PALM - STUDY STUDIO & COFFEE OPENS ON CAMPUS

A new study and food spot opened on campus on Feb. 17. The Palm accepted meal swipes, dining dollars and Lancer Bucks. Students could get coffee, pastries and Einstein Bros. Bagels. CBU was excited about this new addition and hoped students took advantage of the study space and its late-night hours. Located at Harden Square, hours of operation included Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to midnight and Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. It was closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

RIVERSIDE CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Downtown Riverside celebrated its 45th annual Black History Expo & Parade on Feb. 8. This year’s theme was “Serving Our Community,” honoring Grand Marshal and retired Fire Chief Michael Moore. This was one of California’s longest-running Black History parades. Those who attended experienced classic cars, motorcycle clubs, dance and drill teams, award-winning food and more. Downtown Riverside celebrated its 45th annual Black History Expo & Parade on Feb. 8. This year’s theme was “Serving Our Community,” honoring Grand Marshal and retired Fire Chief Michael Moore. This was one of California’s longest-running Black History parades. Those who attended experienced classic cars, motorcycle clubs, dance and drill teams, award-winning food and more.

BACK-TO-BACK EARTHQUAKES IN THE INLAND EMPIRE

On Feb. 10, San Bernardino County experienced three earthquakes in under 24 hours. The first two occurred less than five minutes apart earlier in the day. The second quake had a 3.0 magnitude with a depth of around 4.5 miles. Later in the evening, at 9:58 p.m., the U.S. Geological Survey reported a 3.6 magnitude earthquake with a depth of about 5.1 miles.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STORMS CAUSE FEAR OF MUDSLIDES

Seth Wilson, freshman exercise science major, found it unusual that past presidents had never taken the opportunity to experience one of the biggest sporting events in the country.

“That’s crazy that no other president has gone to the Super Bowl,” Wilson said.

Before entering politics, Trump was involved in the sports and leisure industry, developing resorts with golf courses. His presence in the business world and interest in sports contributed to his public image before his political career.

Rachel Rogstad, freshman theatre major, considered the historical impact of a sitting

The Super Bowl takes place every year to determine the National Football League (NFL) champion. It was not just a sports game but a cultural event. Millions of people in the U.S. and worldwide tuned in to watch; an estimated 127.7 million viewers streamed Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, Feb. 9, according to Nielsen, making it one of the most-viewed shows ever. The Super Bowl was also a key opportunity for advertisers, entertainers and politicians to connect with the American audience.

president attending the Super Bowl for the rst time.

“I wonder what message he was trying to send by being there?” Rogstad said.

President Trump’s attendance at the Super Bowl received mixed reactions. Some viewed it as a notable moment, seeing it as a demonstration of a sitting president engaging in a major cultural event.

For some, it was a signi cant event re ecting the president’s visibility and engagement with a major occasion. Others viewed his attendance as a strategic move, with some suggesting it was intended to shift focus from political matters.

During a pre-Super Bowl interview, President Trump emphasized unity, stating

that success was the key to bringing people together.

“We have to come together, but to come together, there is only one thing that’s going to do it, and it’s massive success,” Trump said.

Trump’s presence at the Super Bowl drew varied reactions for a sitting U.S. president to attend a major cultural event and engage with the public in a widely viewed setting.

Whether seen as a moment of genuine engagement with the public or a strategic appearance, Trump’s attendance at the Super Bowl set a precedent that future presidents may choose follow in various ways, using highpro le, widely watched events to strengthen their connection with the public.

Southern California experienced much-needed rain. However, this also brought a risk of flash flooding and mudslides, especially in Los Angeles areas that had been burned by wildfires. Due to floods and mudslides, the Pacific Coast Highway was fully closed on Feb. 14 between Chautauqua Boulevard and Carbon Beach Terrace. In Riverside County, Market Street near the 60 Freeway onramp experienced heavy flooding, causing multiple vehicles to become stranded.

FISH POPULATIONS RISE IN CA’S MARINE PROTECTED AREAS

California’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) were essential to protecting marine life and promoting sustainability for future generations. Areas with MPAs were shielded from overfishing and other detrimental activities. Experts from UC Santa Barbara conducted research demonstrating the effectiveness of these protected areas. According to recent studies at UC Santa Barbara, MPAs significantly boosted the fish population.

Lindsay Stumpf | Banner

California has recently issued a ban of Styrofoam foodware.

Jack Lonac | Banner

California’s new Daylighting Law makes it illegal to park within 20 feet of a crosswalk or 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension.

Wellness

How Can I Maintain My Physical Wellbeing?

• Eat a healthy diet and avoid processed foods

• Exercise regularly, even if it's just a walk

• Take vitamins and probiotics for gut health

• Stay hydrated and limit caffeine and soda intake

• Get sunlight exposure for vitamin D

• Practice grounding and spend time in nature

• Maintain personal hygiene and take relaxing baths

• Aim for 7-10 hours of sleep (women may need more)

How Can I Maintain My Spiritual Wellbeing?

• Meditate on thoughts and emotions

• Practice breathing exercises

• Spend quiet time away from devices

• Visit a place of worship for spiritual reflection

• Do yoga or stretching for mindfulness

• Engage in self-reflection

• Pray and fast to focus on God

• Study the Scriptures

• Spend time with other believers for fellowship

Importance of Personal Without personal wellness, easily worn out and maintain healthy relationships, confident and healthy

Personal wellness is but about nourishment. we must also care for balanced methods.

How Can I Maintain My Recreational Wellbeing?

• Travel and explore new places

• Enjoy a spa or self-care day

• Have a fun movie night

• Engage in calming art activities

• Go on hikes or nature walks

• Read comics, books, or magazines

• Attend a dance class or try a new hobby class

How Can I Maintain My Financial Wellbeing?

• Understand the economic climate

• Invest and save wisely

• Set clear financial goals

• Budget and track your spending

• Avoid being overly attached to money

• Prioritize needs before wants

Source: Rocky Vista Health Center

What Does God Say?

Wellness did not appear idea was shown in several included Proverbs 4:23, sians 2:10 and Psalm 139:14.

As images of God, believers example. In Genesis, God Jesus took time away to stated to "love your neighbor people love others to such for themselves?

Source: Melissa Abello,

Wellness

Personal Wellness

wellness, individuals can become struggle to accomplish tasks, relationships, or uphold a healthy sense of self.

not about luxury or indulgence nourishment. Just as we care for others, for ourselves using holistic and

Say? appear explicitly in the Bible, but the several passages. Some examples 4:23, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Ephe139:14.

believers were called to follow His God rested on the last day, and to recuperate. Leviticus 19:18 neighbor as yourself." How could such a degree if they did not care

Abello, Masters in Counseling, LPC.

Wellness and Heart Month

• Some things to do during Heart Month:

• Wear red to spread awareness

• Join a heart walk

• Pray for and support victims of heart disease

• Learn CPR

• Take care of your heart through exercise and a healthy diet

How Can I Maintain My Mental Wellbeing?

• Learn a new skill or language

• Set goals

• Read literature or informational papers

• Take breaks

• Fast from social media or the news

• Play brain-engaging games

• Avoid dark media when in a negative headspace

How Can I Maintain My Emotional Wellbeing?

• Guard your heart from negativity

• Spend time alone for self-reflection

• Journal or try therapy

• Allow yourself to have a good cry or vent session

• Practice positivity

• Be kind and patient with yourself

How Can I Maintain My Environmental Wellbeing?

• Make your bed or tidy your space

• Get a change of scenery

• Declutter and organize

• Have a third place for nonwork time

• Discover new places

• Listen to music and light candles

• Turn off harsh lights, especially at night

• Keep a few sentimental objects

How Can I Maintain My Social Wellbeing?

• Form new connections

• Stay connected with a support system

• Limit time with negative people

• Ask for help when needed

• Spend time with friends or family

• Write letters to a friend or pen pal

Source: Rocky Vista Health Center

Written and

Illustrated

by Lorelei Delgado

e art of upcycling, sustainability

BY GABI RIGGIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The concept of upcycling in fashion was more than just a trend—it was a powerful statement about sustainability and creativity. By taking old clothes, fabrics, and materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, upcycling transformed them into new, unique pieces of wearable art. As the world grew increasingly aware of the fashion industry’s environmental toll, upcycling presented a refreshing solution, turning waste into treasure and reminding consumers that fashion did not have to come at the cost of the planet. It was a testament to the idea that true style was about reinvention, not consumption.

According to a “Business Insider” analysis, fashion production accounted for 10% of global carbon emissions, matching the total emissions of the European Union. The industry depleted water resources and contaminated rivers and streams, while 85% of textiles ended up in landfills annually. Additionally, washing clothes contributed to the release of 500,000 tons of microfibers into the ocean each year, equivalent to 50 billion plastic bottles.

A report by Remake revealed that 80% of apparel was produced by young women aged 18 to 24, while a 2018 U.S. Department of La-

bor study uncovered instances of forced and child labor in the fashion industry across countries like Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Turkey, and Vietnam. Rapid production often prioritized profits over human welfare.

Beyond working conditions, the fashion industry was the second-largest consumer of water. Producing a single pair of jeans required 2,000 gallons of water.

The solution to the fast and excessive consumption in the fashion industry lay in slow fashion practices like upcycling. Upcycling was the process of transforming old, discarded materials into new, high-quality products, giving them a second life while reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. It challenged the traditional cycle of consumption by emphasizing creativity, sustainability, and a deeper connection to the items people wore.

Jaden Galvan, Chicana textile artist from East Los Angeles and NYU alumna, spoke about a project she worked on as a student at NYU focused on sustainable fashion. She was part of a team attempting to turn mycelium mushrooms into fabric, but in the end, the leathered mushrooms proved too fragile.

“As far as sustainability and fabric, that project taught and inspired all of us who were

a part of it to try something else out or to open our minds to new ideas. There are other things to work with in terms of sustainability, and we just have to keep pushing those boundaries—finding ways to make the industry less toxic and reverse years of damage done to the earth,” Galvan said.

Galvan’s work in the fashion industry focused on upcycling and repurposing already-used fabrics, both as a way to combat the industry’s pollution and to pay homage to her roots. From a young age, she was aware of not only the

environmental impact of fast fashion but also the working conditions in textile factories.

“Sustainable fashion was an interest of mine because I grew up with my grandmother telling me stories about the textile workshops she used to work in downtown LA. So I was always very interested in what these factories were like,” Galvan said. “Even though fast fashion, in a way, put food on my table because she was working in these textile shops.”

Galvan emphasized the importance of awareness of the fast fashion industry, explain-

ing why upcycling and secondhand retail were moral considerations when making fashion decisions. The knowledge of factory working conditions weighed heavily on her heart.

“If these hands are being put in danger, and these individuals’ nervous systems are being overworked in the conditions they’re placed in, it just doesn’t morally make sense to support these businesses. So what can we do?” Galvan said.

As a brand owner and upcycling textile artist, Galvan urged more people to embrace sustainable fashion.

“We just need to do better.

Like I said, continue to brainstorm, continue to trial and error these different ideas that may or may not work, and we can’t let it halt this line of advancement. We’ve got to keep up with the times, and we’ve got to keep up with the technology,” Galvan said. While sustainable fashion and fast fashion come at a cost to their clients and possibly their working conditions, Joanna Medina, senior public relations major describes the difficult balance of having to choose between the two.

“But in order for sustainability, if we want clothing that is more ethical. Then, we are going to have to cut off that arm to afford it. There are so many brands that are extremely sustainable, but you have to understand that sustainability comes with a price because it is hard work for fashion to not be an environmental problem. It really is a bittersweet moment,” Medina said.

Embracing a more ethical and eco-friendly approach to fashion demands a shift in both mindset and behavior, urging a commitment to not only creativity and sustainability but also to the welfare of workers and the planet. The future of fashion may depend on continued efforts to balance these complex challenges, ensuring that the industry can evolve toward a more responsible and conscious model.

CBU students share their passion of unconventional hobbies

BY KYLE CASON

Hobbies came in all shapes and sizes, from coffee tasting and surfing to collecting artifacts—common pastimes that many enjoyed. However, some hobbies, like tabletop games, stood out as more unique or unconventional. At California Baptist University, students have the opportunity to express and share their passion for these distinctive hobbies.

A hobby is a fascination with an activity to pass the time or expand one’s knowledge of a subject or skill. Where’d we get this definition?

An article published by Modern Recovery highlighted some of the health benefits of having a hobby. Hobbies provided a break from stressful everyday life, creating a stress-reducing environment.

strengthened his friendships, as he enjoyed bringing people together for quality time in his garage. This connection deepened when Shorts and his friends immersed themselves in a game, developing strategies together.

A hobby like his could come with a hefty price tag due to the cost of board games. However, Shorts noted that many of his board games had been gifted to him. Lately, he began investing in higher-priced board games.

childhood, where he grew up watching shows like “Seinfeld” and “Family Matters”. Torreyson’s love for sitcoms came from simply watching and enjoying the moment. He also noted that sitcoms had positively impacted his life by broadening his perspective.

Students at CBU expressed their love for hobbies, finding and creating deeper connections with others.

Alexander Shorts, freshman history and theatre double

Engaging in self-loved hobbies also helped form connections between people with shared interests. Choosing a hobby could seem like a challenge, but hobbies were ultimately about doing what one loved.

major, has a unique passion for tabletop games. His interest in board games developed through friends, passing the time while camping, and the support of those around him who introduced him to new games.

His love for board games stemmed from his friends and family. He mentioned some of

his favorites, including “Dungeons & Dragons”.

“My cousins love to play board games, and one of my best friends introduced me to my two favorite games, ‘Blood on the Clocktower’ and ‘Twilight Imperium 4th Edition’,” Shorts said.

Shorts’ love for board games brought him joy and

“I’ve started purchasing more expensive games, specifically ‘Blood on the Clocktower’, ‘Twilight Imperium 4th Edition’, and the ‘Prophecy of Kings expansion’,” Shorts added. Some hobbies extended beyond physical board games and tangible items.

Samuel Torreyson, junior business administration major, has an interesting hobby: watching sitcoms. His passion for sitcoms stemmed from

“They’ve increased my appreciation for the artistic medium of TV,” Torreyson said. To continue watching his favorite shows, Torreyson subscribed to streaming services for sitcoms like “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation”. Torreyson also enjoyed sharing his love for sitcoms with his friends and residents, making it a social experience. These unique hobbies helped form a sense of community within CBU’s diverse campus. Students like Shorts and Torreyson created bonding experiences, whether by physically gathering to play a board game or emotionally connecting over a shared love for sitcoms.

The strength of scripture and the art of memorizing the Word

BY EMMA LEON ASST. F&L EDITOR

If you grew up in the church, you probably remembered memorizing scripture. Usually, the Sunday school leader gave a verse, and the class came up with fun ways to remember it. But as people get older, they tend to memorize verses less and less. Memorizing Bible verses might only be something done in Sunday school; over time, it often fades as a steady practice. However, there is value in picking it up again.

courage the kids to memorize it and repeat it when they are having hard days or to mention it to their friends and family.”

Although children are encouraged to learn scripture because of its benefits, those same benefits can apply to young adults.

“ God calls us to write scripture on the tablet of our hearts.. Emma Workman, freshman psychology

Emma Workman, freshman psychology major, explained why memorizing scripture holds strong value.

major

Mylie Sharp, Children’s Ministry Leader at Impact Church, shared her perspective on the importance of memorizing scripture.

“I believe there is a lot of value in memorizing scripture,” Sharp said. “We en-

“God calls us to write scripture on the tablet of our hearts,” Workman said. “How can a person fight if they have no weapons of armor? In the same way, how can we fight spiritual battles if we don’t have the word of God, which is a sword to cut the enemy’s lies down.”

For Christians, memorizing scripture can become a valuable tool for faith. However, once the motivation to start memorizing scripture is there, a common challenge is finding effective ways to memorize and retain it. Workman shared some tips and tricks that helped her memorize and retain verses.

“Writing them down over and over again, and also saying them out loud helps,” Workman said. “Another thing I do is I got an app called Versify, which helps you memorize verses with different tools.”

Along with practical tips like repetition and apps, there are also creative ways to keep scripture in mind. Addie Reardon, freshman mechanical engineering major, shared her experience with memorizing scripture and offered new ideas to try.

“I know some people wear bracelets that have the first

letter of each word of a particular verse they are trying to memorize,” Reardon said.

“Personally, I like to make a verse or passage my Lock Screen on my phone.”

Another way to retain scripture is to involve friends. Having accountability partners

who try to remember the same scripture can make it more enjoyable while also providing support to stay on track and follow through. This can be fulfilling for each person and help strengthen friendships.

There are many ways to begin memorizing scripture, each unique to the individual. Regardless of the method, making an effort to remember the Word can be extremely beneficial not only for personal faith but also for daily life by revealing God’s truth and transforming the way in which we think.

Photo illustration by Natalie Tanaka | Banner

Watching sitcoms is a favorite pastime of many students.

Photo Illustration by Sumaya Khoury | Banner

There are many different ways to memorize Bible verses.

Photo Courtesy of Jaden Galvan

FAITH & LIFESTYLE

Cultivating a stronger faith and deepening your walk with God

BY EMMA LEON ASST. F&L EDITOR

Spiritual growth may look different for each person. While some experience growth by attending church, joining discipleship groups and engaging in community activities. Others may grow through personal reflection, individual Bible study and dedicated prayer time.

The first approach often appears more extroverted, while the second may be more introverted. Although these approaches contrasted with one another, they could still benefit different people.

An important aspect to remember is that everyone grows in their faith differently, and neither approach is better than the other. Each Christian has a unique way of drawing closer to the Lord. However, because everyone’s journey is different, finding specific ways to grow spiritually could be challenging.

To grow in your faith, the first step is to understand what

it truly means to grow spiritually and the significance of that commitment. Dr. Andres Vera, associate professor of New Testament, shared his thoughts on what it meant to grow in your faith.

“Growing in [your] faith can mean very different things for different people. For some, ‘growing in my faith’ might be tied to growing in my understanding of my faith or my understanding of the Bible,” Vera said.

A relevant piece of scripture that aligns with this concept is 2 Peter 1:5-7, which reads, “For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.”

Vera commented on this passage, “For Peter, it’s not even just growing in ‘my’ faith. It’s more like, ‘Okay, you have faith, but you need to

supplement your faith… and then you should see all of the things you should be adding to your faith.’”

The elements that could supplement faith were listed not only in 2 Peter but also throughout the Bible. Another key aspect of spiritual growth is not only reading scripture but also acting on it and finding ways to apply it in daily life.

Karson Wieser, freshman business administration and intercultural studies double major, shared his perspective on spiritual growth as a more extroverted individual.

“To grow closer with God, I love to spend time around gospel community—people who can direct me towards God and remind me of Him daily,” Wieser said. “Other people can tell me what I need to work on and help me through it!”

For Wieser, community played a significant role in maintaining and growing his faith. It provided different perspectives, accountability and consistency in his spiritual journey.

Kaylee Harwood, freshman interior design major, shared her approach to growing in faith as an individual.

“If you want to get closer to God and grow in your faith, community is a necessity,” Harwood said. “I also think that God designed all of us uniquely, and it’s important to know our limits.”

Recognizing personal limits

is crucial in spiritual growth because what worked for one person might not work for another.

Harwood continued by sharing her own practices: “I love taking part in SL nights, moments of worship around the fire pit, and Bible studies,” she said. “And we all need time alone with God in our rooms.”

The beauty of spiritual

growth is its uniqueness for each individual. After gathering insights from students and professors, the key takeaway is that all believers are imperfect humans and children of God, striving to know Him more deeply. There is never a point where spiritual growth should stop. No matter how spiritually mature one becomes, there is always room for growth and improvement.

Club of the issue: CBU Crochet Club

BY

Ever wondered how a ball of yarn could bring a group of students together? The Crochet Club at California Baptist University stitched students together through community and creativity. The Crochet Club carried a core value of building a community that provided a stress-relieving atmosphere for students to create and meet new friends.

It was a place where anyone was welcome to join, regardless of their experience in crocheting. The newly founded club became official in fall 2024. Heavenlee Suabnkauju Vaaj, president and founder of the Crochet Club, was inspired to start the club due to her love of crocheting and its personal impact on her life. She learned

how to crochet in summer 2023. What started as a small hobby soon became an activity that helped her discover new things about herself.

“...Many leaders at CBU were very encouraging and I also had the support and prayers of my family too.

Heavenlee Vaaj, president of the crochet club

“I know it’s just crocheting and may not be as serious as people hope it to be, but it’s therapeutic and a skill that has improved my mental health,” Vaaj said. For the club to become official, it took a long process that Vaaj was unwilling to give up on. “The process was exciting but challenging,” she said. Last summer, she utilized CBU Confessions, a student-led Instagram account, to gather students interested in joining the club. From there, she had to find officers with leadership skills and an academic advisor willing to oversee the future club. Many steps and applications were sent and

The crochet club offers a fun, creative space for students to connect.

approved by higher authorities. Several faculty members, specifically Jamie Hutton, the club organizer, played a supportive role in the club’s founding process.

“It didn’t come to life on its own, but many leaders at CBU were very encouraging, and I also had the support and prayers of my family too,” Vaaj

said. Students quickly found community within the newly formed club. Kaylee Hardwood, freshman interior design major, joined the club last semester.

“Instead of doing [crocheting] in my room by myself, I can do it with other people; it’s been fun,” Hardwood said.

The Crochet Club met weekly for two hours, offering students a chance to advance their crochet skills while bonding with others. Advanced members, the officers, were assigned one day of the week to teach a new crochet pattern geared toward beginners. Some of the projects the club worked on included head-

bands, wallets, plushies and more.

Due to different skill levels, members often relied on one another during the learning process. Elise Craft, senior graphic design major, joined the club two weeks ago.

“It’s cool to see what people around you can do, so if you need help, they can teach you how to do it,” Craft said. Community continued even outside club meetings. Members communicated daily through a Discord chat, sharing pictures of their latest crochet projects. Vaaj and the officers met weekly to discuss goals and future objectives. They also reflected on what worked well and what needed improvement from the previous meeting.

Vaaj hoped to organize one social event each month where members could bring their peers. Students were welcome to join anytime, and no prior crochet experience was required. To get involved, students could connect through Instagram (@ crochetclub_cbu) or sign up through CBU Connect.

Photo Illustration by Sumaya Khoury | Banner

Bible study, prayer, and personal time with God are some ways to grow in your faith.

Sumaya Khoury | Banner

RIA SHARP ASST. F&L EDITOR

Illustration by Lorelei Delgado

Photos by Ria Townsend

Faculty Artist Series Recital showcases vocal excellence and artistry

1. Joshua Golden, assistant professor of music and director of choral studies, Joel Balzun, voice applied faculty, Julie Makerov, voice applied faculty, Amy Joy Stephens, voice applied faculty, and Bruce Sledge, tenor, perform together at the Faculty Artist Series, held on Feb. 13, 2025.

2. Amy Joy Stephens, applied voice faculty, and Julie Makerov, applied voice faculty, sing together during the Faculty Artist Series Recital.

3.

4.

5. School of Performing Arts faculty bow at the end of their performance at the Faculty Artist Series. 1 4

Photos by Sumaya Khoury and Elissa Garcia

Amy Joy Stephens, voice applied faculty, performs at the Faculty Artist Series.

Joel Balzun, voice applied faculty, sings at the Faculty Artist Series.

Does sleep hinder our productivity?

BY GABI RIGGIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Typically, as a professional sleeper, I would choose sleep over everything I do. Sleep is great, and if I could, I would sleep 17 hours a day.

Yet, I have to admit that getting more sleep or sleeping the recommended number of hours hinders my ability to get

BY GRACE BOUDREAU MANAGING EDITOR

If you know me, you know I love a good hug. Physical touch is my love language, and not just in a “this is my preferred way to receive affection” kind of way. No, it’s like my battery charger, my reset button, my

work done or be productive. That’s probably why the phrase “You’ll sleep when you’re dead” became popular — people realized there’s too much to accomplish in a day to spend at least eight hours sleeping.

In fact, I get the most work done when I get little to no sleep. If I woke up after two hours of rest and worked a full shift — lunch break and all — I would be able to pull through without question. Granted, I would probably be exhausted by the end of the day, but I would have still made it through on no sleep.

I often hear that taking naps, especially short “power” naps, can be helpful when running on little sleep. However, for me, taking a nap in the middle of the day doesn’t do any good.

For a nap to be useful and restful, it would need to last between 20 and 90 minutes,

according to Sleep Score Labs. They explain, along with the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, that the best time to nap is between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Ten to 20 minutes of sleep is enough to provide a slight energy boost. However, 30 minutes is too much and ironically not enough because it leaves me feeling more tired. This happens because, after the 20-minute mark, the body enters a deeper sleep cycle.

To fully benefit from a nap without interrupting REM sleep, I would have to aim for 90 minutes. But who has time for a 90-minute nap in the middle of the afternoon? The answer is virtually no one, especially if you work a regular 9-to-5 job, are a full-time student or have a busy day that doesn’t slow down in the afternoon. It’s just not feasible.

While napping or “siestas”

are customary in many cultures, it would be different if corporate America allowed for that kind of midday break without worrying about unfinished work.

If I lived in a country that encouraged long afternoon breaks, I would probably be the first one out the door, ready to enjoy a pleasant, full-length 90-minute rest.

However, I don’t live in a world that slows down for people. Whether it’s work, school or other activities, life keeps moving. Jobs are only required to give eight hours between shifts, which means in customer service, for example, you could work a closing shift and come back early the next morning. At that point, may as well have spent the night at work.

While sleep is enjoyable and peaceful, if humans didn’t require it, I would probably opt out of it altogether.

Power of a hug, why you should embrace more often

little piece of daily comfort that makes everything feel just a bit better.

It wasn’t until halfway through high school, I learned about love languages, and let me tell you, that was a game changer. Realizing that everyone gives and receives love differently helped me understand myself on a deeper level, but it also helped me understand my friends and the people around me. Some people feel most loved through words of affirmation, acts of service, gifts, or quality time. But for me? A simple hug says it all. Now, I know not everyone is big on physical touch, and that’s totally okay. But I’m here to make the case that maybe,

just maybe, you should consider hugging your friends (the ones who are comfortable with it, of course) a little more often. Why? Because hugs are magic. And science backs me up on this.

It’s been proven (by actual studies, I promise) that hugs reduce stress. They literally lower cortisol levels, slow your heart rate, and help your body relax. Maybe that’s why people always tell me I have a calming presence. I’d like to believe it’s just who I am, but honestly? It’s probably because I get a good amount of hugs throughout the day, and that constant connection keeps me grounded.

Hugs remind us we’re not alone. In a world that can

sometimes feel overwhelming, a simple, warm embrace can be the difference between feeling isolated and feeling supported. It’s a quiet way of saying, I’m here. You’re safe. You’re loved. And honestly, I think we all need more of that—more moments of connection, more reminders that we’re not facing life on our own.

So, consider this my friendly nudge (or better yet, my warm virtual hug) to encourage you to embrace the power of a hug. Hug your friends when you see them, hug your family a little tighter, hug yourself if you need it. Because the more we reach out–literally–the more we remind each other that we’re in this together.

e 2025 Grammys: Snubs & Successes

BY YEDID FUENTES

Music’s biggest night never failed to spark conversation, and the 2025 Grammy Awards were no exception. While the ceremony delivered unforgettable performances and well-deserved wins, fans and critics questioned some of the Recording Academy’s choices. From surprising upsets to wellearned victories, the night featured some of the most talked-about moments of the year.

Several artists walked away

with awards that felt like long-overdue recognition. Chapell Roan’s win for Best New Artist solidified their place as one of the industry’s most influential voices, while Beyoncé’s sweeping success across multiple categories underlined her continued dominance. The night also saw a historic moment in the Rap category with Doechii’s victory, marking a step forward for the representation of women in the genre.

One of the standout performances came from Chapell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish and Charli XCX, whose live rendition of their most popular song captivated the audience and quickly became a highlight of the show. Kendrick Lamar also took home five Grammys for his overnight hit song.

Of course, no Grammys discussion would be complete without addressing the overlooked artists. Fans were shocked to see Billie Eilish leave empty-handed despite being a frontrunner in Record of the Year and Album of the

Year.

One of the night’s most debated moments came when Album of the Year was awarded to Beyoncé, beating out artists whose albums were considered among the year’s best, including Billie Eilish’s “Hit Me Hard and Soft” and Sabrina Carpenter’s “Short N’ Sweet.” The decision reignited conversa-

Clairo, highlighting the Academy’s continued oversight. Another rising name that could have made the cut was The Marías, a soft-pop band known for seamlessly blending English and Spanish lyrics.

While Beyoncé’s win for Album of the Year was well-deserved for her exploration of a new genre, many believed the industry should also recognize new or emerging artists who make a significant impact. This sentiment reflected ongoing concerns about rewarding talent that showcases the true influence of music on today’s generation, not just those with commercial hits.

tions about how the Grammys determine winners and whether commercial success, critical praise or industry politics play the most significant role. Some notable albums and artists were noticeably absent from this year’s nominations, such as Kali Uchis’ “Orquídeas” and “Charm” by

The Grammys have long been a mix of celebration and controversy, and 2025 was no different. While many artists received well-earned success, others were left questioning what more they needed to do to secure a golden gramophone. As the music landscape continues to evolve, the Recording Academy must adapt to maintain credibility with both artists and fans.

What do you do to unwind after class?

“I usually come out and hang out with my friends or sit out in

“I

“I’ll either just sit in silence with my friends or watch TV and eat.”

Nathon Wasson Freshman Exercise science

“Normally just sit on my bed and take a nap.”

Katelyn Wong Junior Graphic design major

“I like to bed rot. I like to go on Instagram and look at memes, and I also like reading... I like to lay down on the grass.”

Matthew Dang Freshman Pre-nursing

like going to the gym.”

Maryann Garberoglio Freshman Pre-nursing

BUSINESS & TECH

Companies strategic marketing tactics for Valentine’s Day

BY SARAH MINER B&T EDITOR

Valentine’s Day celebrations raise questions like, “What do I get my significant other?” “Is this too much or too little?”

“What should I get her?”

“Would he even like this?” Then, a promotion appeared on social media, a flyer and so forth.

Companies took a holiday like Valentine’s Day and promoted the different deals they had to offer. Ulta Beauty’s website featured a Valentine’s gift guide filled with “Heartfelt beauty gifts, date night essentials, and self-care sweetness.” Target’s website had a page for Valentine’s Day gifts, stating, “Show the love” and “Get last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts with sameday delivery or free pickup.”

Luke Hall, sophomore architecture major, said, “It is extremely hard to avoid valentines stuff because it’s pushed onto consumers by being presented in high traffic areas of stores and website landing pages.”

merchandise, making substantial efforts for smaller celebrations.

Dr. Christina Gonzalez, associate professor of marketing, highlighted that this did not only happen with Valentine’s Day but with anything considered a big deal to specific target markets.

“Retailers love creating

opportunities like the Super Bowl or the World Series, but they also often focus on key holidays like Valentine’s Day. In fact, brands are very keen to consumer interest in holidays such as Valentine’s Day, as some of their largest audiences or segments are willing to spend even more during the month of February.”

“Companies often use an audience calendar to strategically plan for these holidays and will go to market with specialized products with bespoke holiday creative in an attempt to be more relevant and to create a competitive differentiator.

A classic example of this includes consumer packaged

immediately after Christmas,” Gonzalez said.

Since many consumers spent heavily during Christmas, February presented an opportunity for companies to promote deals and drive additional spending.

“The earlier brands can course-correct their sales in the year, the more they are able

Retailers like Ulta Beauty and Target catered to consumers by offering gift ideas and same-day delivery, even for a holiday that may have felt less significant than Christmas. They also maximized profits through bundles and themed moments in time to market to consumers to drive/increase sales. These moments can include buzzworthy

Companies took time to develop strategies that would benefit them during these buzzworthy moments.

goods companies that begin marketing their specialized products with Valentine’s Day-themed creative almost

to profit from recurring revenue and thereby become more profitable. Most brands no longer need to wait until Black

Friday to become net positive or profitable,” Gonzalez said. Retailers continue to find ways to make smaller moments profitable so they did not have to rely solely on bigger holidays or peak spending periods. This allowed them to maintain profit year-round.

“In fact, some segments spend more money during holidays like Valentine’s Day due to the expected early receipt of income tax returns and disposable income. As a result, many brands increase their media spend in February to capitalize on this phenomenon,” Gonzalez said. Ruby Popp, sophomore Christian studies and early childhood studies double major, said, “It is sad that Valentine’s Day has become such a commercial holiday and has lost its original meaning.” Even if companies focused on profit, people could still hold onto the holiday’s original meaning while being mindful of spending. Gonzalez encouraged consumers to be cautious when shopping for Valentine’s Day deals.

“Ensure it really is a good deal and not just a marketing campaign. Right price, right value and right time to purchase,” Gonzalez said, emphasizing thoughtful spending when shopping for a significant other.

The value of Netflix’s on-demand services to college students

BY YASNA PETROVA ASST. B&T EDITOR

Netflix became a growing giant in the on-demand industry, offering streaming services ranging from movies to mobile games. Netflix Inc. started producing its own content in 2011 and experienced a growing demand for it.

Netflix changed the TV industry and had over 270 million subscribers who paid for its service worldwide, according to Netflix Investor Relations. Even a discount offered for college students created loyal consumers in the California Baptist University community.

Michael Eaton, professor of film studies/film production, had a mixed opinion on whether society benefited from the platform.

“It can be beneficial to students studying certain topics related to their major, particularly film majors, as there is just a lot of content on there about a lot of different subjects and some very good films about historical events and people too,” Eaton said.

However, he admitted that despite the vast amount of content, society did not benefit much.

“The movies and shows

Netflix Inc. produces on its own are often not great, and many famous filmmakers have commented on how the company’s emphasis on a big budget and popular productions leaves out gifted independent filmmakers with unique voices,” Eaton said.

On the other hand, Eaton acknowledged the platform’s affordability.

“I think the price point is still pretty cheap for access to so much content,” Eaton said.

Eaton also shared his personal experience with Netflix Inc., as it streamed his own documentary, “The Case for Christ”, which was a top Netflix title in the religious category.

“It was a top Netflix title in its category for many years until Lionsgate, the distribution company, pulled it off all together,” Eaton said.

“My documentary was released when DVDs were still being sent out to Netflix subscribers, and it has been distributed worldwide through Amazon and other streamers.”

He also noted that a pirated copy became available for free on YouTube, which was disappointing.

“My own opinion of Netflix is that there is a lot of content

that is just plain terrible, and they don’t seem to care, perhaps because their founders aren’t content creators,” Eaton said.

On the flip side, as a consumer rather than a filmmaker, Katelyn Marley,

major, said she enjoyed Netflix.

“It has a large collection of shows, and I especially love the collection of comedy shows it has to offer,” Marley said. Beyond entertainment, Marley also noted potential benefits.

beneficial for students if it is used correctly, as it has some shows that can teach important lessons to students about friendship, healthy romantic relationships, and much more,” she said.

However, as a believer, Marley highlighted her concerns and personal convictions.

“Sadly, our culture today is falling deeper into what feels ‘good’ versus what feels ‘right,’ and Netflix’s recent show releases portray this concept clearly, which makes it hard for believers to find shows that align with their beliefs... As Christians, we need to remind ourselves of what is true from God before we click ‘watch’ on Netflix or any other streaming service,” Marley said.

“Netflix is popular because it is affordable with its different packages,” Nafula Khaoya said. “It has diverse movie sets and undertones and allows you to download movies and watch them when you do not have internet access.”

Natfula Khaoya also shared how she used the platform personally.

“I watch Netflix when I need a break and to refresh my mind,” she said, noting that this could be beneficial for college students.

Netflix is popular because it is affordable with its different packages.

Favor Nafula Khaoya, graduate student

Netflix’s algorithm for selecting recommended movies was something that Favor Nafula Khaoya, graduate student, found appealing.

However, she said she did not like how predictable some of the shows she

“However, there are days when that one episode ends up being the whole series.

On those days, it is a distraction,” she said. Whether or not someone liked or supported

Netflix, the steaming platform remained a dominant force in the on-demand industry for the past decade. Many college students could find value in its extensive content for both educational and entertainment purposes, even though people with subscriptions might choose to be mindful of the specific material they consumed.

“I think that Netflix can be

Sarah Miner | Banner

Photo illustration by Sarah Miner | Banner

Valentine’s Day gifts are heavily marketed in February.

Illustration by Lorelei Delgado | Banner

Student aspiration: Colson Bosman

BY SARAH MINER B&T EDITOR

Aren’t we supposed to dream? A plan is good and stable, but a dream can mean the whole world.

Dreams shape more than buildings; they redefine how we experience the world. For an architect, it’s not just about blueprints and measurements—it’s about a vision that turns aspirations into structures that stand the test of time.

Colson Bosman, sophomore architecture major, loved architecture as a child.

“From a young age, I have always liked architecture. As a kid, I drew floor plans of our house for fun. I designed buildings for fun. When playing Minecraft or Lego, I would hand-draw plans for everything beforehand,” Bosman said.

Bosman explained what he liked about architecture and why he continued pursuing it

beyond childhood floor plans.

“I have always liked math, but I am also very creative. Therefore, meshing those two worlds is architecture,” he said.

Bosman’s parents worked in different fields than the one he was pursuing. His mother was a secretary at his high

“ But once I am a 50-year-old dad, I am going to want to be an architect.

Colson Bosman, sophomore architecture major

school, and his father worked as director of holding relations at Hume Lake. However, his father once aspired to be an architect.

His father chose not to

REVIEW

BY SARAH MINER

B&T EDITOR

There are many ways to learn besides sitting in a classroom. Podcasts are also a resource that people use to obtain information. That is why people, specifically students, could further their learning in a different way.

I took the opportunity to listen to a few episodes of “Marketing School –Digital Marketing and Online Marketing Tips” with Eric Siu and Neil Patel to assess its suitability for college students. The “Marketing School”

description stated, “Neil Patel and Eric Siu bring you actionable digital marketing lessons that they’ve learned through years of being in the trenches.” These two professionals offered marketing advice for beginners to people with their own businesses. They start their podcast episodes right away. There is no introduction explaining who they were, what they did or any type of engaging hook. They simply began the podcast with the topic at hand or by asking a question.

It was different from other podcasts I had listened to in

pursue the field due to the years of schooling required and other factors. Still, he encouraged Bosman to study architecture. When Bosman was creating his designs as a kid, his father suggested, “You should be an architect.”

“He wanted to be an architect in high school… but [decided due to the amount of schooling], ‘I am not doing that.’ Now, he realizes that those eight years of school would have been worth it.

I have that hindsight 20/20 from my dad. He saw the years as too daunting… I see the years as too daunting. I still have three years ahead of me, plus an internship and more. But once I am a 50-year-old dad, I am going to want to be an architect,” Bosman said.

Bosman did not want to carry the same regret his father had about his career. Because of this, he remained committed to his studies.

In a couple of years,

Bosman hopes to work at an architecture firm.

“The idea would be to work for a newer firm… A lot of firms nowadays have teams that work

A Podcast Review:

general. Most started with some kind of introduction and possibly a jingle. I had mixed emotions about this method. Maybe I was a cliché, but I liked the more traditional introduction to a podcast and an introduction to the host(s). While jumping in the way they did was different and impactful, it also felt off. It was like jumping into a conversation that the listener did not necessarily understand. I listened to a few episodes, including “The Unusual Way That We Give Feedback in Our Companies,” “How to Build a Community from Scratch,” and “What Is the Real Value of a Personal Brand?” All three episodes contained a lot of information.

There were moments when I was slightly confused. However, they included useful information and advice, such as explaining the importance of authenticity in feedback and discussing personal branding.

on a project the whole way, and I would love to do that. I do not want to be the only drafting guy or the design guy,” Bosman said.

Bosman also said he did not want to create parking structures or strip malls. Instead, he wanted to design something with meaning.

“I would like to design custom homes or large public spaces like libraries— meaningful spaces where every aspect of the building is thought out and connects to the clients and its surroundings,” Bosman said.

Bosman wanted to build something for the people. He kept the client in mind throughout the creative process, ensuring the space would be appreciated and have significance.

Bosman still had years of hard work ahead, but his aspirations and his father’s encouragement would continue to motivate him. His drive to finish his education, become a licensed architect and desire to continue to pursue his passion would ultimately, shape his future.

Marketing School

Throughout their podcast episodes, they wove their personal experiences into what they had learned and what they did. I liked the addition of a personal touch, as it helped listeners see that their tactics were ones they used as well. Even with quality information, the overall podcast felt boring. In some ways, this made sense, given that it was more of an educational podcast. However, I would have liked to see more variety in vocal levels to add interest and passion to their speech. Though it was educational, I hoped the hosts would be excited about what they discussed.

I found the “Marketing School” podcast informative and valuable for furthering learning. However, due to the lack of passion and variation in tone, I had to engage with the podcast intentionally. It remained a useful resource for expanding my knowledge through podcasts.

AI program comparision and the concern of proper prompting

BY SARAH MINER B&T EDITOR

Artificial intelligence is part of everyday life. People utilize AI to draft emails, aid in brainstorming ideas and more. There were multiple AI programs, including Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT and Gemini.

Dr. Mark Kim, associate professor of data science and computer science, first started the discussion by sharing how he used AI in his life.

“Yes, I use AI tools… that’s what it is. It is a tool. It was designed to help us accomplish some kind of task or work. In our case, as knowledge workers here at the university, AI is an effective tool that students benefit from. The idea is efficiency and an increase in productivity,” Kim said.

Students also can use this tool as an aid. Amelia Ratzlaff, sophomore architecture major, said, “Personally, I don’t use it, but I know people will use it to get ideas for projects or topics on papers.”

AI is a free resource, when used correctly for students

compared to other options. Katja Young, sophomore exercise science major, said,

“It is a helpful study tool. It is like a free tutor. Even professors use AI, it just looks differently to students use.” Kim utilizes AI to help him be more present in other situations.

“[AI] allows us to get a ton of tasks done faster, which means I can spend less time doing administrative stuff and more time meeting students on a more personal level,” Kim said.

He addressed that AI was a tool and that people should work with technology, expressing that humans and machines could work well together.

“We call this humanmachine teaming (or humancomputer interaction). The idea is that you should complement each other. Humans are good at being creative and innovative. Machines are good at automating repetitive tasks,”

Kim said. “We are at the first inning of AI. Right now, AI is changing so rapidly. We are still

trying to figure out the right way to use AI.”

Kim mentioned that no

AI program was necessarily better than another. However, effectiveness depended on how

one prompted the AI tool.

“Microsoft Copilot is simply going to be for coding, so

anyone who programs would want to use Copilot in that respect because that is what it is designed for… The act of giving instructions to an AI assistant is called prompting,” Kim said.

Kim encouraged students to learn the technology and how it worked, optimizing its abilities as a tool rather than a replacement for human effort.

“One of the things students should look at is learning how to interact with the machine to figure out what it is capable of doing… The true way to get a hold of that is learning how to prompt these large languages. We have, from private to public, large language models, hundreds of different types of ChatGPTs and others. I would encourage students to try to prompt and interact with these large language models,” Kim said. These AI programs depended largely on how users interacted with them. Their effectiveness varied based on proper prompting techniques and how they were utilized by users.

Front jump

Photo illustration by Sumaya Khoury | Banner

Gemini

in

Photo illustration by Sarah Miner | Banner Colson Bosmon, sophomore architecture major, shares his story about wanting to become an architect.

Illustration by Lorelei Delgado | Banner

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Hector Jimenez “MR.” EP debut: Falling, timeless take on love

BY GABI RIGGIN EDITOR IN CHIEF

From the lecture hall to the recording studio and full-time fatherhood, Hector Jimenez, assistant professor of music in the School of Performing Arts at California Baptist University, proved that even the most seasoned educators have a rhythm of their own—one that now echoed through the beats of his debut EP, “Falling”.

Jimenez goes by the stage name MR. on all streaming platforms, where he released his newest EP, which he wrote and was produced by Lisa Town. It dropped on Feb. 14, 2025— Valentine’s Day—which he described as a project meant to inspire love.

people who love to love the one they’re with and get to just spread positive, good vibes this Valentine’s Day,” Jimenez said.

The smooth, soulful R&B melodies in Jimenez’s EP captivated its audience, evoking the feeling of falling in love. The EP consisted of four tracks: “Falling”, “Our Time Together”, “Everything I Wanted and More”, and “Only You and Me”. Each carefully crafted song was written by Jimenez over the past year.

“ It’s always the right time to follow what inspires you ... Hector Jimenez, Assistant professor of music

Drawing inspiration from the music he grew up with, Jimenez explained that the creative process had been smooth, allowing him to explore different genres.

“The EP is inspired by the music I listened to as a kid. I grew up listening to R&B music. And I’m in a season where I’m having a lot of fun writing R&B music and songs about love and relationships. And [Falling]—it’s a song to inspire love and be there for

“…As an artist, you know, exploring different topics of songs, different vibes, different genres, different sounds. Something that I kept coming back to in my writing were songs that were positive, vulnerable and honest about being in love with someone,” Jimenez said. “Nothing more, nothing less, no complica-

tions—just ‘I’m in love with you, and I want to say something to you.’”

As a professor, Jimenez had the unique opportunity to share his experience and teach what he wished he had learned as a young artist.

“It’s always the right time to follow what inspires you and what you love, and it’s also never too late to do it,” Jimenez said. “I think something that motivates me— probably the biggest motivating factor as a professor—is to be able to teach my students the things I wish I would have been taught as a student. And so being able to teach it, but then also being able to model it, is something that really means a lot to me for the students at CBU.”

“Falling” allowed Jimenez to step further into soul music, shifting his sound away from contemporary R&B. He shared the progression from his last release in August 2024, “Love You”, to now and the ease that came with live performances.

“I think this EP is kind of beginning the progression of me leaning more into soul vibes—so less contemporary R&B and more soul, neo-soul, R&B, soul… that can be per-

Courtesy of Hector Jimenez (Father of MR.)

formed live with a live band,” Jimenez said.

Through his music, Jimenez explored the complexities of emotions, connecting with listeners through an understanding of what it felt like to cherish a relationship. His songs offered an earnest

soundtrack of love and connection.

“For everybody who’s a creative, keep on creating and sending love to the world.

Hector Jimenez assistant professor of music

For Jimenez, his greatest inspiration was his wife. From high school sweethearts to now raising four daughters, Jimenez juggled duties as a father, husband, professor, mentor, and artist, all while cultivating timeless

music. Setting high standards for his daughters, he dedicated everything he did to his wife.

“Dedicating the project to my wife. I think any song I write is inspired by the love I have for her,” Jimenez said. While his dedication stemmed from his love for his wife, he also inspired the hearts of his children.

“That’s been fun to see as they’ve heard the songs— you know, the whole process through it. Yeah, they heard them when I first wrote them. They like to listen to them in the car… ‘put on that song last week.’ So they’re excited,” Jimenez said.

Jimenez encouraged his students and others in the creative field to keep pushing forward and to create with positivity and love.

“For everybody who’s a creative, keep on creating and sending love to the world,” Jimenez said.

To listen to the timeless, captivating love songs that Jimenez described on his Instagram page as “music that makes you want to slow dance in the kitchen,” the new EP “Falling” by MR. is now available on all streaming platforms.

Lancer under the spotlight: “Andi Parker,” Christian rapper

BY ALANNA RIVERA A&E EDITOR

The Shelby and Ferne Collinsworth School of Performing Arts at California Baptist University nurtures an environment where students can freely explore their creative minds. Whether studying music or theater, SOPA provides the tools for diverse artistic pursuits.

Andrés Guerrero Macías, sophomore studio production major who is better known as “Andi Parker,” was among the many performing arts students deserving of a spotlight. During his time at CBU, Macías was an avid performer in the commercial music program. He expressed gratitude for opportunities such as participating in Pop Ensemble, Global Worship Night, campus-affiliated bands, and more.

“I’m from Mexico, so back there, I didn’t perform at all. So here, just playing piano in front of a lot of people through the School of Performing Arts, that helped me a lot—like all the experience they’ve given me,” Macías said.

Emily Benford, associate director of commercial music, described how the Commercial Music program strives to support its students, including Macías.

“I think Andi’s talent and ability to write songs and rap and create his own music is what made him stand out, and we want that,” Benford said.

“We want people to bring their ideas and who they are, and we just want to enhance that

EDITOR’S REVIEW

BY GABI RIGGIN I EDITOR IN CHIEF

The release of Bad Bunny’s sixth studio album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos”, on Jan. 5, 2025, came just before Día de los Reyes, a widely celebrated holiday in Hispanic cultures that marks the end of the holiday season for many. The artist, global superstar Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, known as Bad Bunny, gave listeners a taste of his home with a collection of 17 songs that paid homage to the history of Puerto Rico.

Bad Bunny hit his ninth straight Billboard No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart, where, for the first time, salsa and plena reached the top spot. This album explored a narrative centered on preserving and protecting culture, focusing primarily on his home in Puerto Rico.

Bad Bunny expressed his love and pride for Puerto Rico through his music, igniting a wave of celebration on social media among his people. The album arrived at a significant

time for Puerto Ricans, and Benito used his music to make a statement and shed light on the issue of gentrification within Puerto Rico. The album starts with what was recognized as a love letter to New York and Latin culture. Benito sampled the song “Un Verano en Nueva York” by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico and Andy Montañez, a wellknown Puerto Rican salsa piece from the 1970s. Even in the opening track, Bad Bunny made multiple culturally significant references throughout the lyrics, including mentions of Juan Soto, Frida Kahlo, Big Pun, and Willie Colón, a Puerto Rican musician.

“It’s funny because it’s an album dedicated completely to Puerto Rico, but it starts in New York. That was kind of how the album started: Before, when a Puerto Rican would go to the U.S., they’d be like, ‘Me voy pa’ Nueva York!’ So New York would be like shorthand for ‘I went outside of the is-

and also expand on that.”

By fostering a safe, collaborative space for students, SOPA helps them reach their full potential as developing artists. In Macías’ case, this encouragement and guidance from his professors helped shape his understanding of

music.

“Through the classes [at CBU], I’ve learned how to record myself, how to mix it, how to produce it, how to master it, and then how to release the songs,” Macías said. “I didn’t want to rely on other people; I wanted to do it by myself.”

Macías’ ambition and passion for music went beyond the classroom as he pursued his goal as a Christian rapper. With the help of his professors and his creative mind, Macías independently created, released, and promoted more than 10 original songs, demonstrating his talent and drive.

As a mentor, Benford had a front-row seat in witnessing Macías’ dedication to his work and admired how he glorified God through his craft and character.

“Andi is not only creative and talented, but he’s a hard worker. He’s passionate about learning and growing and get-

ting better, and he is always just a ray of light,” Benford said. “He is positive; he’s encouraging to his classmates, eager to help where he can—I mean, he’s just all around the ‘dream student,’ if you will.” Macías used his voice not only for music but also to advocate for his classmates in SOPA, demonstrating his eagerness to help and his genuine character.

“Just know there are a lot of artists here at CBU. I’m one of them, but I have a lot of classmates that are releasing music …, so always be there to support the artists here at CBU because I want to make Christian music, but I want it to help people, but I need an audience to help,” Macías said.

Macías’ original music is available on all streaming platforms and students can support him and his classmates at this semester’s upcoming Commercial Music events.

“DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” by Bad Bunny

land’ back in the day. And at the same time, amazing things happened in New York when Latinos, Puerto Ricans were here — we teamed up with Cubans, with Dominicans, there was music, there was art, “Bad Bunny said in an interview done by the Rolling Stone. The tracklist transitioned from salsa, jíbaro, bomba, and plena to reggaeton. This album was also revealed through a Spotify promotional campaign, where coordinates

replaced the title, allowing fans to uncover and guess the name, similar to other songs on the album.

Bad Bunny fused reggaetón with traditional Puerto Rican rhythms like plena, a genre characterized by its percussive beats and storytelling lyrics, as showcased in “Debí Tirar Más Fotos.”

He also incorporated Afro-Puerto Rican influences and 1970s salsa, as heard in tracks such as “BAILE

INOLVIDABLE.”

The album also highlighted diverse voices, with tracks featuring visualizers that included writings by Latin American and Caribbean history professor Jorell Meléndez-Badillo, discussing Puerto Rico’s political revolutions and key activists. It also showcased the work of young Puerto Rican musicians who contributed to the salsa, jíbaro, bomba, and plena tracks. Arcadio Díaz-Quiñones, a prominent Caribbean intellectual, described the “rupture of historical continuity” in Puerto Rican society due to repression and cultural exclusion. On “Debí Tirar Más Fotos”, Bad Bunny sought to revive that lost memory.

The album tapped into a shared feeling of longing for roots in a world that often felt aimless and bleak. In one song within the album, Bad Bunny mourned the displacement and colonial struggles of Hawaii, hoping Puerto Rico would not face the same fate.

For years, activists have fought against gentrification, privatization, and displacement in Puerto Rico, themes that Bad Bunny previously addressed in his past releases. In “Debí Tirar Más Fotos”, these concerns were even more prominent, with lyrics that praised Puerto Rico’s beauty while warning of the dangers threatening its identity. This message was symbolized by the sapo concho, an endangered Puerto Rican toad, which was highlighted in teasers and a short film for the album. The toad’s near extinction, caused by invasive species and habitat loss due to development, mirrored the larger threats to Puerto Rican culture. The album provided a glimpse of hope, urging listeners to envision a different future. While “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” was indeed a love letter, it was much more. It carried a sense of caution,and nostalgia. It served as a call to action.

Photo illustration by Ami Nhawkar | Banner

Andrés Guerrero Macías (Andi Parker), sophomore studio production major, aspiring Christian rapper.

Illustration by Lorelei Delgado | Banner

The Grammy Awards: A platform for advocacy

BY EMILY AFFLECK ASST. A&E EDITOR

The Crypto.com Arena in L.A. hosted the 67th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, celebrating established and emerging recording artists for their finest works of the year. Among the nominees were Billie Eilish, Charlie XCX, and Sabrina Carpenter—all vying for multiple categories.

The night’s results surprised fans, with pop artist Beyonce winning Best Country Album and Taylor Swift losing all six of her nominations. Despite the wins and losses, one thing was clear: the Grammys have become a platform for advocacy.

As the winners were revealed, artists used their speech time to recognize various political and cultural issues.

Best New Artist winner Chappell Roan called for record labels to pay emerging artists like herself livable wages and provide decent health care.

“I told myself if I ever won

a Grammy,” Roan said, “and I got to stand up here in front of the most powerful people in music, I would demand that labels in the industry profiting millions of dollars off of artists would offer livable wages and health care, especially to developing artists.”

Alicia Keys, who received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, advocated for recognizing female producers and increasing diversity in the music industry.

“… this is for all the ladies that know the magic that they bring to the room,” Keys said.

“We’ve seen on this stage talented, hard-working people from different backgrounds with different points of view, and it changes the game.”

Rapper Doechii, who won Best Rap Album, directed her speech to young girls of color, encouraging them not to conform to society’s stereotypes.

“You are exactly who you need to be to be right where you are,” Doechii said. “And I am a testimony, praise God.”

These artists highlighted the influence of the Grammys,

transforming the award show into a culturally significant event.

Dr. Julie Goodman-Bowling, associate professor of anthropology, explained that

is it’s only given to you by the power of the people,” Goodman-Bowling said. “So if we decided tomorrow that we don’t care about what Britney Spears says about politics, we

prestige is why the Grammys platform exists. In anthropology, prestige is given to people or groups who hold power or honor in society.

“The thing about prestige

would stop listening to Britney Spears about politics.”

In modern America, few authoritative voices hold widespread influence. Goodman-Bowling said people still

crave direction, which has contributed to the creation of a celebrity culture.

Society looks to celebrities to reflect its values. For example, the ongoing movement for equality in America has enabled and even expected artists like Alicia Keys to speak on related issues.

Caroline Houck, sophomore philosophy and English double major, explained that singers and celebrities gain even more influence because of their relatability. Many fans “identify themselves with one of the artists” and elevate them, often overlooking their flaws.

Houck pointed to Taylor Swift as a notable example of this. Swift grew up with her fans by writing about heartbreak and love through the ages. When Swift does something “wrong,” her fans vehemently defend her; the prestige the fans give can blind them from mistakes their role models make; they want to see their idols succeed.

Sarah Jenkins, sophomore songwriting major, discussed how modern artists reach their

peak of fame.

“I think [the Grammys] devalue music a lot,” Jenkins said. “People will start putting out what’s trendy instead of what actually means something.”

Jenkins, like Goodman-Bowling, believed the Grammys continued to thrive because people watched them. She noted that many modern artists rise to fame by aligning with cultural trends.

These dynamics keep the Grammys relevant each year, drawing larger audiences. This is why artists like Chappell Roan and Alicia Keys use the Grammy stage to share culturally relevant messages; people are eager to see their favorite idols discuss issues they care about.

The Grammys have evolved beyond celebrating music to becoming a platform where celebrities amplify cultural ideologies. Without the influence of cultural values, the Grammys might not hold the same significance.

Battling burnout in creative elds

BY ALANNA RIVERA A&E EDITOR

During college, many students experience burnout, facing challenges such as lack of motivation, decreased productivity and a sense of monotony in their work.

However, battling burnout as a student in a creative field of study could be uniquely debilitating. Whether they were artists, writers, designers or musicians, they were encouraged to consistently create original work that inspired innovation. With a full workload and various deadlines, this overwhelming demand for creativity often led to complete mental exhaustion.

Kristine Lippire, adviser of the Art Club and program coordinator for fine art, captured this feeling of creative block.

“The infamous blank canvas,” Lippire said. “Staring at a blank paper and starting something that is hard. Where to begin? Where to end? What colors do you use? What materials? What do you say? How big do you want it to be? We

are all waiting for that aha moment, that sudden realization of inspiration and insight that allows you to visualize what you want to make so that you can begin.”

This feeling of complete creative freedom could be daunting; sometimes, inspiration did not immediately strike. Lauryn Hall, sophomore art education major, experienced this waiting game and shared how burnout and cre-

ative blocks impacted her perspective on her work. “That’s why I wanted to go into this major—I’ve always done art. I found enjoyment out of it, but then when it becomes your workload, you kind of start to despise it, in a way,” Hall said. “It becomes difficult to find that connection to what you used to love.”

Hall’s explanation resonated with many other students in creative studies. Junior graph-

Stress to serotonin: Students use comfort movies to cope

BY MARIA LUIZA SILVA ASST. A&E EDITOR

Everyone loves movies, but especially comfort movies— those kinds of stories that give viewers butterflies in their stomachs, evoked no sense of fear or stress, or brought infinite laughter and a lighter mood after a busy day, pushing away all of life’s problems.

This realization posed an intriguing question: Why were college students so obsessed with comfort movies? It could be the constant feeling of safety, knowing that nothing bad would happen—the unimaginable romance. Even so, comfort movies were drastically different from the roller coaster of uneasiness that most students faced while transitioning from their teenage years to adulthood.

In the real world, even though there were many happy moments, life could surprise people with a simple turn of events, whether it was a breakup, a bad grade or devastating news. Meanwhile, in comfort

movies, stressful moments were almost nonexistent; the stories were filled with love, humor and a sense of safety. Could it be that most people, especially young adults, watched comfort movies to escape reality?

To gain a broader understanding of this topic, Jasmine Juaréz, sophomore business administration major, shared her opinion on the impact of these movies on students’ lives.

“I believe that escaping reality is a huge reason why people are obsessed with movies,” Juaréz said. “But I also believe that people are obsessed with it because of the thrill, excitement and the instant serotonin they achieve when watching their favorite show or movie.”

There was no doubt that comfort movies brought relaxation to those who watched them. However, a specific pattern emerged: most young adults preferred rewatching movies rather than discovering new ones. This raised a new perspective—many people

struggled with the anxiety of not knowing what might happen, breaking the predictable comfort movie formula.

With that in mind, why would young adults prefer to delay certain necessary experiences and remain in their comfort zones? Enrique Ibarra, sophomore film major, gave his perspective.

“I believe young adults choose to watch their comfort movies on repeat rather than new ones because it makes them feel comfortable within their preferred space,” Ibarra said. “That is until they are ready to experience something new that they may not have seen or experienced before.”

With the stressful routines most college students faced, it was natural to want to turn off their brains for a few moments and relax. However, some students used streaming platforms to procrastinate their responsibilities or even avoid dealing with daily challenges.

So, did watching comfort movies bring more benefits to daily life or not? When asked

ic design major Emily Hurtado detailed her experience with creative burnout as someone who created work for both her courses and internship.

“Experiencing creative burnout, I felt not very productive, and I just didn’t want to create anything,” Hurtado said. “Even for my job, I didn’t feel like creating anything, and I kind of felt stuck, to the point where I couldn’t find any other ideas.”

As a mentor for creative students, Lippire offered her perspective on why some experienced creative burnout.

“When students had a hard time, it was usually because they were overextending themselves,” Lippire said. “Our CBU students were so generous with their time and support of one another, but you also must make sure your cup is full before you share everything with others.”

Those experiencing the silent struggle of creative burnout asked the question: how could they stay inspired amid stress? Hall offered one solution in the form of CBU’s Art Club, where she served as the president.

“That’s what we’re trying to create [in Art Club], is a space where you can just come and relax and focus on art instead of your focus at school … which is hard finding that balance, but that’s what we try to achieve,” Hall said. “There’s no guidelines; just come as you are.”

CBU’s Art Club is open to all students regardless of their

this question, Dr. Carol Minton-Ryan, professor of sociology, shared her insights on the topic.

“It helps college students to cope, it gives them creative ideas and it certainly can help them to reinterpret their own journey,” Minton-Ryan said. “The bottom line is that it cannot be done excessively to impede one’s needed tasks to be successful at work and in their family life.”

The magic of comfort movies would always offer people, especially students, a

sense of safety, love and fantasy amid the chaos of life. They helped students understand themselves better, enhanced creativity and provided much-needed relaxation.

It was well known that students indulged excessively, which was unhealthy. To create balance and a better quality of life, students needed to learn how to use streaming platforms wisely—without compromising their daily responsibilities and mental growth—while still enjoying the peace that comfort movies provided.

artistic expertise, demonstrating that students who do not find themselves artistically inclined have opportunities to find a balance between work and life.

Following that concept, one piece of advice comes from Hurtado who shares the wisdom she gained from one of her mentors.

“My professor the other day said, ‘Worry about the things that you can control and don’t worry about the things that you can’t control.’ To me, the way I interpreted that is—life happens, sometimes you can’t meet a specific deadline and that’s okay. Taking time is usually for the benefit of the piece, not to negatively impact it,” Hurtado said.

While creative burnout and blockages persisted during challenging seasons, reminding oneself to care could only produce positive results. From spending time with loved ones to stepping away from the canvas and thinking freely, there were ways to unplug and reconnect with the creativity inside each person.

While the play seemed new to the audience, it was familiar to the cast and crew, who had “been studying the script for almost three months now,” Bortot said. Ready to share this touching true story with their audience, Shane Moser, CBU theatre alumnus and assistant director, shared the cast and crew’s goal in putting this production onstage.

“I think that we really want to show the audience how important art is and how impactful it can be to so many people and how universal it is,” Moser said. “Shakespeare is such a universal writer and author, and he writes about people and humans. When you really dig deep, you find these common human experiences and this love and this pain, and I hope that the audience can take away the beauty of that— the beauty of art.” As “The Book of Will” continues its run in the Wallace Theatre, those interested in supporting can see the play as they enter their second weekend of showings. Closing night is scheduled for March 2.

Photo illustration by Sydney Holloway | Banner

Emily Hurtado, junior graphic design major, struggles between creativity and burnout.

Photo illustration by Sumaya Khoury | Banner

Many people watch movies to relax and escape reality.

Illustration by Lorelei Delgado | Banner

CBU swimmer makes college history

BY GRACE BOUDREAU MANAGING EDITIOR

At California Baptist University, one swimmer defied expectations and set new standards for determination and resilience.

Braxton Wong, freshman health science major and a swimmer on CBU’s men’s team, made history as the first amputee swimmer to join a Division I program, not only as a competitor but also as an inspiration to his teammates and the wider community.

“Yeah, I think it’s the first amputee in program history, D1, D2, NAIA, just in general,” said Jim Bossert, CBU’s head swim coach. “So it’s a really cool thing.” Wong, who lost part of his leg at age five, trained as a para-athlete for several years, competing at a national level. Yet, his journey to Division I swimming was not always certain.

“During my time in high school, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to swim in college,” Wong said. “Not a lot of teams had reached out to me or gotten back with visits that were good academically for the things that I wanted to achieve.”

But CBU, under Coach Bossert’s leadership, saw potential beyond the water. The program’s commitment to supporting athletes of all abilities made Wong’s transition smoother than he had expected.

“I had known Jim for about a year before I came here,” Wong explained. “He coached our club for a little while, and just knowing that Jim already knew how I swim and the goals

I wanted to achieve made the transition easier. The team itself has been really good to me. I wouldn’t say I’ve ever noticed any disconnect.”

Bossert was just as enthusiastic about bringing Wong onthe team.

“When I got the job here, I said, ‘Braxton, we’ve got to figure out how to get you to CBU. You’re going to thrive here,’” Bossert said. “I knew that Braxton would be welcomed with open arms. Our guys love him. It’s not about winning races for him it’s about pushing everyone around him to get better. And he does that every day.”

“Bossert highlighted that Wong’s contributions went beyond swimming. “Braxton may not score points at conference or be on the scoring team, but he pushes everyone in practice. He shows them what it takes to set a goal and work relentlessly towards it. He makes others

better.”

Wong’s impact was felt both in the pool and beyond.

He teaches us all to think differently, to find better ways to push ourselves. His presence in the program is a gift to all of us.

Jim

Bossert, Head swim coach

Teammate Avery Easterling, sophomore criminal justice and forensic chemistry major and CBU swimmer, notes that Wong’s determination inspired the entire team.

Fitness for all, CBU’s group exercise classes

BY YEDID FUENTES ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Staying active in college isn’t always easy, but at California Baptist University, group fitness classes at the recreation center make it fun, social and accessible for everyone. Whether it is Zumba, yoga, spin or strength training, students show up to break a sweat, build friendships, relieve stress and stay motivated.

For sophomore architecture major Giselle Dunkirk, joining group fitness classes was about more than just exercise—it was about forming connections.

“I was motivated to participate in a group fitness class because I hoped to form a community in the gym,” Dunkirk said. The welcoming and uplifting atmosphere made her experience enjoyable and rewarding.

Senior interior design major Marisa Dunkirk had similar feelings, emphasizing the social benefits of group exercise.

“One of my good friends and I first began hanging out when we decided to go to work-

out classes together,” Dunkirk said. These sessions fostered friendships, accountability and shared motivation.

One of the biggest benefits of group fitness classes at CBU was that they were designed for students of all fitness levels. Marisa Dunkirk highlighted how instructors ensured everyone felt comfortable.

“The instructors were all super friendly and great at explaining different motions or techniques,” she said.

Giselle Dunkirk also praised the structure of the classes.

“They had different levels and different rules that allowed many different opportunities,” she said. Whether students were just starting or looking for a challenge, there was a class that fit their needs.

Karolina Iznerowicz, group fitness coordinator, highlighted the importance of variety in programming.

“We offered classes like deep stretch, kickboxing, Pilates, cycle, or dance styles like ballet or hip-hop,” she said. “That way, each student could find something they en-

joyed that kept them engaged in physical activity.”

For many students, these classes served as an escape from the demands of college life. Marisa Dunkirk found relief in the sessions. “I thought that the classes with fun lights and music stood out most to me. It was very stress-relieving from school,” she said.

CBU’s fitness instructors recognized this dual purpose.

“Group exercise programs provided students the opportunity to take a break from schoolwork and relax through physical activity. All they needed to do was show up, and we set the atmosphere and provided the programming,” Iznerowicz said.

While students loved the current offerings, they also had ideas for new classes. Giselle Dunkirk suggested a trampoline fitness class, while Marisa Dunkirk expressed interest in a yoga class that blended deep stretching with Pilates.

CBU gave students a place for intense workouts, a way to de-stress and a good time with friends through fitness classes.

“He trains just as hard as everyone elseaand doesn’t make excuses. He makes the intervals and he doesn’t see his disability as a disability,” Easterling said. “It’s inspiring to see someone set a goal, no matter how unreasonable, and fully believe in themselves to achieve it. It makes you think, ‘If he can do it, I can too.’”

Wong’s achievements spoke for themselves. In October, he set an American record in his first dual meet at CBU, swimming in the S9 classification. “It was incredible,” Bossert said. “For Braxton to set an American record in his first

meet– it just speaks to the level he competes at.”

His goals are far from over. Wong set his sights on breaking more American records this spring, including competing for the Para World Swimming Championships in Singapore later this year. In December, he earned four medals in the National Championships, and his next big goal is to make the World Championships team. His relentless commitment to both academics and athletics, including maintaining a high GPA while studying pre-physicians assistant, showed that Wong’s strive for excellence extended well beyond the pool.

Despite his impressive accomplishments, Wong remained humble and focused on his teammates and personal growth.

“I just think it’s really important for people with disabilities to be seen on rosters,” Wong said. “Being on a team like this brings more recognition, and that’s something that can really inspire others.”

Bossert agreed. “I’ve learned so much from Braxton,” he said. “He teaches us all to think differently, to find better ways to train and push ourselves. His presence in the program is a gift for all of us.”

This spring, Pursuit Magazine is set to feature an indepth profile on Wong’s life, faith, and journey, spotlighting how his resilience inspires those around him and beyond. Until then, Wong continues to break barriers, motivate his teammates, and make history at CBU as a swimmer who demonstrates that the only limits are the ones we impose on ourselves.

HOMECOMING headlines

STANDOUT PLAYERS

Leading the team with a standout performance, hitting a two-run double and a home run in the first game of their doubleheader, helping secure a 7-1 victory over San Diego.

Scoring a game-high 36 points on 11-of-19 shooting, including 4 three-pointers and 10 free throws. His key clutch shots down the stretch, securing the Homecoming victory.

Led CBU to an 81-75 win over Utah Tech, scoring 24 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter to help secure the victory despite a late rally from the Utah Tech Trailblazers.

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Grace Boudreau | Banner

Braxton Wong training for his upcoming competition, wearing his American Games swim cap.

Josselyn Guillen | Banner

The Recreation Center’s group exercise classes are a fun way to workout while also building community.

KALENA BURNS DOM DANIELS JR. KHLOE LEMON

Balancing books: how college athletes excel academically

BY CAYANNA LIGON ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Through the fall 2024 semester, student-athletes took on the challenge of excelling in both athletics and academics. Together, they competed and achieved a notable team GPA.

Although balancing studying and practicing simultaneously was difficult, these individuals proved it wasn’t impossible. Their accomplishments did not go unnoticed, thanks to their hard work and focus. At the same time, they adjusted their schedules to ensure they got the rest they needed.

Men’s golf earned a team GPA of 3.5 through dedication and effective time manage-

ment.

Bryden Brown, junior accounting major on the men’s golf team, excelled both on the course and in the classroom.

“Time management can be very difficult as a golfer due to our long days of many hours on the course and in class,” Brown said. However, he maintained a relatively consistent schedule.

While golf was not the only team with an impressive GPA, women’s soccer boasted a strong academic GPA of 3.69. The team studied on the way to games to prioritize academics while also maintaining their rest.

Lauryn White, senior elementary education major said, “Everyone worked just as hard in their studies as they did on

the field.”

As she prepared to graduate in the spring 2025 semester, White set high standards for herself. “My academic goal for this semester was to have a 4.0 GPA so I could go into my student teaching with the highest GPA possible,” she said.

Setting personal standards has become a common practice in CBU sports, but setting team standards is considered even more effective. Lisa Siregar, coach of the women’s swimming and diving team, ensured that every other week her athletes maintained at least a 2.5 GPA by increasing study time in the study hall.

These academic habits helped the women’s swimming and diving team achieve

a team GPA of 3.5. Looking ahead, Siregar hoped to reach even greater goals. “Like a national [championship] or even top eight in [our] conference,” Siregar said.

Siregar added, “They study

before they swim because they are students before they are athletes.”

The swim team’s discipline played a crucial role in its overall success, in and out of the pool.

Although balancing athletics, personal commitments and academics was challenging, these student-athletes did not give up. Instead, they worked hard to achieve their goals as student athletes.

e rise of Pickleball: Why everyone is playing America’s fastest-growing sport

BY GRACE BOUDREAU MANAGING EDITIOR

Pickleball, the sport that blends elements of badminton, tennis and pingpong, exploded in popularity across the United States, and California Baptist University students caught on. With its accessibility, community-oriented play, and appeal across generations, pickleball drew players from all backgrounds.

Marnie Kavern, assistant director of Intramurals and Esports, saw firsthand how students gravitated toward the sport.

“A few years ago, when pickleball started booming, we hosted a few one-day tournaments, and they always maxed out. Now, we have many CBU students that have been checking out pickleball sets and playing on the outdoor courts on their own time, which is so fun to see,” Kavern said.

The sport’s popularity was attributed to its low barrier to

entry. Unlike sports that required large teams or years of training, pickleball was relatively easy to pick up.

“Much of the pickleball community is so welcoming and inviting and wants new players to come and experience it. I think there is a lot of appeal because it comes off as nonthreatening for people who may have less of an athletic background, so it can feel safe to try. It is relatively quick to learn for people who have not played before,” Kavern said.

“It also requires fewer people to play! All you really need is one additional person, and you can get a game going.”

For students interested in playing, CBU offers open recreational hours at the Rec Center on Tuesdays from noon to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, a new two-week pickleball league—offering both competitive and noncompetitive play— will take place on the outdoor courts, with sign-ups running

from Feb. 24 to March 18.

Beyond CBU, pickleball’s rise in popularity spanned gen-

erations. The average playing age was 41, yet college-aged players quickly embraced the sport, enjoying its competitive and social aspects.

Emme Buhl, CBU alumna, was first introduced to pickleball by her grandparents during a family trip to Cambria.

“The first time I played was with my grandparents in Cambria. They played regularly, so during a trip, my family joined them at the courts, and we all fell in love with the game,” Buhl said. “My dad and I had experience playing tennis, so for us, it was really easy to

“Much of the pickleball community is so welcoming.

Emme Buhl, CBU Alumna

because they have agility on their side. I [sometimes] play pickleball with my grandma at her retirement community, and it’s fun to beat old people at the game (especially when they are really serious). The only reason I’m better is because I can run,” Buhl said. According to Expertpickleball, pickleball was named the fastest-growing sport in America for the third consecutive year, as reported by the Sports & Fitness Industry Associacatch on. And then during COVID, more of my family started playing it, so when we would have family events, it would be pickleball and dinner.”

Buhl noticed an increase in young players, especially at the college level.

“I think it’s becoming more popular among younger players

tion. With its easy learning curve, low cost, and ability to be played at any skill level, pickleball proved to be more than a passing trend. As pickleball grew, CBU students could expect even more opportunities to get involved, whether for friendly competition or to join the ever-expanding community that made the sport unique.

What it’s like to transfer as an athlete

BY GRACE BOUDREAU MANAGING EDITIOR

Transferring colleges brought a mix of excitement and challenges as students adapted to new environments, classrooms and communities.

Eliana Posada, senior public relations major and volleyball player, knew firsthand what it meant to switch schools as a college athlete. Born and raised in Texas, Posada’s path took her from the University of Pittsburgh to California Baptist University, where she encountered both challenges and blessings.

“Transferring, in general, is an extremely unique experience for each individual,” Posada said. “I chose CBU because of its location in Southern California and the trust I’d built with the coaching staff at the time.” Despite her excitement, Posada quickly realized the transition would be harder than expected.

“CBU provides a great foundation where I have been able to grow from a holistic perspective,” Posada said. “I value the interpersonal skills I’ve gained from transferring here.” For many student-athletes, transferring felt like stepping into the unknown. Adjusting to a new school environment could be academically and socially overwhelming.

“Socially, it’s really hard to transfer to CBU. There are plenty of school events, but having a student-athlete’s schedule makes it hard to meet other athletes,” Posada said.

Balancing academics, practice and travel left little time for building new connections outside the team. Despite the hurdles, Posada’s time at CBU proved to be rewarding.

“Like any transfer story, there was plenty of culture shock, but now, after attending school here for two years, I can confirm that CBU has become a huge blessing in my life.”

Her experience reflected a

reality that many student-athletes faced. According to the NCAA, transferring was a crucial decision requiring care-

““Like any transfer story, there was plenty of culture shock, but now, after attending school here for two years. I can confirm that CBU has become a huge blessing in my life.

Eliana Posada, senior

public

relations

major and volleyball player

ful consideration of academic goals, athletic opportunities,

it also brought new opportunities. The NCAA reported that

transfer students often took longer to graduate, but those who approached the transition with the right mindset gained a newfound opportunity to grow.

Posada’s experience aligned with this perspective.

“Transferring can be a critical turning point,” the NCAA guidelines suggest, “but when approached with the right mindset, it can also be a time for personal growth, new relationships, and a renewed sense of purpose.”

Posada found this to be true, experiencing academic growth and a stronger sense of community at CBU. Look-

ing back, she reflected on how much she had grown throughout her college career.

“I’ve grown in ways I never thought possible,” she said. Her journey from Texas to Pittsburgh and now to Southern California had been anything but easy. Yet, it shaped her into the person she was today—a dedicated student, an intentional friend and a driven athlete.

As Posada prepares to graduate from CBU, she embodied the resilience of many student-athletes. Her story attested to the challenges and rewards of transferring schools and served as a reminder of the strength and growth that came from stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

CBU’s Athletics Department, in line with its mission to “honor Christ through excellence in athletics” (Romans 12:1), remained committed to helping student-athletes thrive academically and athletically.

The department’s mission emphasized building a successful university that prepared athletes to compete for championships while simultaneously serving and growing as individuals. The support provided by CBU’s athletics program aligned with Posada’s personal experience, equipping her to excel both athletically and academically in her collegiate journey.

Photo illustration by Sydney Holloway | Banner

Student-athletes must find a balance between academics and athletics.

Photo illustration by Natalie Tanaka | Banner

Photo Illustration by Ria Townsend | Banner

Pickleball is a sport for any and all ages.

Lanc Life

Cartoons by Lorelei Delgado

ACROSS

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” - Psalm 139:14 (NIV) • VERSE of the ISSUE •

Fun & Games

4. Something you should show yourself and others

5. Something you should guard your heart from

7. You should get 8-10 hours of this 8. Opposite of Spend

DOWN

1. Important pauses to take while working

2. Communication with God

3. What links people or things together?

5. The environment around us

6. A color you can wear during Heart Month