The Arbiter Vol. 32 Issue 22

February 18, 2020

Vol. 32 Issue 22

I N D EPEN DE NT

S T UDE NT

V O I CE

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B O I SE

STAT E

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further than physical

EXERCISE PLAYS A KEY ROLE ON THE MULTI-DIMENSIONAL PATH TO MENTAL WELLBEING

NEWS

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Idaho representative proposes bill to ban conversion therapy in Idaho following similar legislation in Utah

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OPINION

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How a professor using a racial slur in class is an example of the professorial privilege problem arbiteronline.com

CULTURE

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Boise State’s resident assistants discuss their daily challenges and triumphs in their roles @arbiteronline

SPORTS & REC

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Club golf team is looking forward to expanding practice opportunities and attending first tournament

@arbiteronline

@boisestatearbiter

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Editor-In-Chief Logan Potter editor@stumedia.boisestate.edu Online Editor Emma Freitas onlineeditor@stumedia.boisestate.edu News Editor Celina Van Hyning news@stumedia.boisestate.edu News Reporter Taylor Rico-Pekerol news@stumedia.boisestate.edu Culture Editor Will Meyer culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu Culture Reporter Michelle Johnson culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu Sports Editor Delaney Brassil sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu Sports Reporter Autum Robertson sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu Opinion Editor Blake Hunter opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu Copy Editor Megan Mary Social Media Coordinator Trisha Kangas Digital Content Manager Mackenzie Hudson digitalcontent@stumedia.boisestate.edu Digital Content Producer Chandler Thornton Graphic Design Manager Maddie Ceglecki design@stumedia.boisestate.edu Graphic Designer Kacie Fromhart Illustrator Wyatt Wurtenberger Distributed Tuesdays during the academic school year The Arbiter is the official independent student newspaper of Boise State University, where student editors make all content decisions and bear responsibility for those decisions. The Arbiter’s budget consists of fees paid by the student body and advertising sales. The first copy is free.

Additional copies can be purchased for $1 a piece at The Arbiter offices.

Boise State students participated in Invent for the Planet, where participants designed solutions for global problems before prototyping and pitching them over the course of 48 hours.

Chandler Thornton | The Arbiter

ON THE COVER:

Because of its effects on the brain, exercise, along with other aspects of wellness, is often recommended to those looking to manage their mental health. While getting started can be difficult, incorporating physical activity and a support system into one’s life can be effective for improving overall health.

Cover design by Maddie Ceglecki.

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EVENTS BLACK HISTORY MONTH PANEL STUDENT DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION LOUNGE

FEBRUARY 20, 5 PM

The Multicultural Student Services is hosting panel discussions every Thursday. The panel will discuss topics including discrimination, backgrounds and cultural experiences and highlight how individuals can learn more about the key differences among cultures.

STOMP

MORRISON CENTER FEBRUARY 21, 8 PM

The eight-member group uses various instruments and everyday items to create unique percussion and rhythms.

Tickets can be purchased through the Morrison Center’s website as part of the 19/20 Broadway in Boise season.

ZUMBA PARTY

RECREATION CENTER FEBRUARY 22, 12 PM Bring a friend and try out the Rec Center’s Zumba Party, every Saturday for an energizing 45-minute dance workout full of various Latin rhythms.

This event is free for full-time Boise State students with a student ID.

STORY STORY NIGHT JUMP PIONEER LEVEL FEBRUARY 25, 6 PM For 10 years, Story Story Night has strived to create life changing connections through the act of storytelling.

The event features storytellers and story slam opportunities for anyone to partake or listen to.

UPCOMING SPORTS MEN’S BA SKETBALL AWAY

HOME

FEBRUARY 19, 8 PM

FEBRUARY 23, 2 PM

AT SAN JOSE

VS NEW MEXICO

WOMEN’S BA SKETBALL

HOME

VS SAN JOSE

FEBRUARY 19, 7 PM

AWAY

AT NEW MEXICO

FEBRUARY 20, 2 PM

VS UNLV

FEBRUARY 24, 7 PM

SWIMMING AND DIVING AWAY

AT MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. MOUNTAIN WEST CHAMPIONSHIP

FEBRUARY 19 - 22

GYMNA STICS HOME

VS UTAH STATE, UC DAVIS, SACRAMENTO STATE, FEBRUARY 21, 7 PM

NEWS

FEBRUARY 18, 2020 | ARBITERONLINE.COM

ERIC SCOTT TAKES ON THE ROLE OF ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS

With a focus on student success, Scott centers his work around hearing student voices Taylor Rico-Pekerol | News Reporter | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu

[cultural] conversations because he has been in a culture and a campus culture where that has been prioritized,” Hernandez said. “So in a way, it keeps us grounded in how to approach certain settings with land acknowledgment in mind. But as always, he wants to recognize the fact that it’s important to build relationships far beyond just acknowledging land; it’s about education.”

Traveling on the Alaska Marine Highway with his wife, dog and personal items on a barge sailing to meet him and his family in Seattle, Wa., Scott moved from Juneau, Ala. to Boise, Idaho in five days.

In Alaska, he spent time with the 3,000 students enrolled as the dean of students and campus life for the University of Alaska Southeast.

“It was a truly unique setting to be engaged in higher education work, and probably one of the experiences that I have the most gratitude for in my life,” Scott said. “It changed who I am. [It] changed everything about me, changed how I do the work, but probably most significantly, it made me really see the value of community.”

The position of associate vice president Eric Scott traveled from Alaska to fulfill his new role at Boise State.

for student affairs had not been vacant

Chandler Thornton | The Arbiter for 10 years, according to Leslie Webb, the vice president for Student Affairs and are in has been refreshing,” Hernandez hile sitting at the StarEnrollment Management. The position’s said. “And not only myself, but I know bucks in the Student entailments have adapted to compensate that there are other students on campus Union Building during for the growing student population and who definitely feel his support.” the fall 2019 semester, now has a lens towards student success, Waking up at 7:30 a.m. is not the ideal Vice President of Inclusive Excellence Lydia way to spend a Friday morning, but for Her- according to Webb.

Hernandez sat down with the new associWith Scott filling this role, Webb has nandez, it is her routine. During a regular ate vice president for Student Affairs, Eric seen firsthand how he interacts with executive team meeting for the Associated Scott, to discuss initiatives for the future. students and understands the processes of Students of Boise State University (ASBSU), “He’s very receptive to the ideas that making changes for the better.

Scott attended to see what he could do to students have, which has been, I guess, it’s “All the final candidates had lunch help them serve the student body. been refreshing to not only hear from him with a group of students and we had to “He’s been such a great help when it that he supports us but having him actualgo interrupt [them] during Eric’s visit. comes to learning how to navigate those ly show up and be in spaces that students

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They were so deep in conversation, talking about their experiences at Boise State,” Webb said. “That, to me, was an indication of how he was going to be part of this campus community.”

Building relationships with students and within the Boise State community is something Scott has prioritized and brought with him to campus. When meeting someone for the first time, Scott wants to understand them and the way they view the world so he can better serve the students.

The first thing Scott recognized when coming to campus was the strong work ethic people have for what they do. Scott’s father was a plumber and his grandfather was a steelworker, and hard work is something that he aligns with his personal philosophy.

“I think it begs the question, and I think our students are asking the question, ‘How do we take that growth and build on it to be even better?’ The entire field of higher education is in flux and it’s changing rapidly,” Scott said.

By training the leaders of the future, Scott believes a difference can be made in the work being done as long as students are being heard. Boise State’s growth from a community college to a strong, innovative research institute in less than 100 years shows and challenges students to be better and grow further, according to Scott.

“I think that we’re poised to be on the leading edge of that,” Scott said. “One of the ways that I hope to be on the leading edge is by having a world-class student experience at Boise State where every student feels welcomed, acknowledged, seen and included.”

NEWS

LEGISLATION TO BAN CONVERSION THERAPY IN IDAHO DRAFTED IN HOUSE

Rep. John McCrostie’s bill will ban conversion therapy for minors in Idaho Celina Van Hyning | News Editor | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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onversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, is a series of practices aimed at converting a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity to conform with heterosexual, cisgendered identities.

According to studies conducted at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Williams Institute, close to 700,000 LGBTQIA+ individuals have been subjected to some form of conversion therapy.

On Jan. 22, Utah became the 19th state in the United States to ban conversion therapy practices. Following the statewide ban, Idaho Rep. John McCrostie introduced legislation that would ban the practice of conversion therapy in Idaho.

McCrostie’s proposed legislation will ban all forms of conversion therapy on people under the age of 18, with exceptions to be made for clergy and faith-based organizations in order to comply with the First Amendment. McCrostie explained that parents and grandparents of the child will also be exempt from this ban.

“If you’re a parent or grandparent and you’re also a licensed mental health professional, then as long as you’re acting within capacity as a parent or grandparent and not as a religious counselor, then this ban would not apply to you,” McCrostie said.

“Those are a couple of the unique aspects of the bill that I feel really good about.”

McCrostie previously introduced this bill in the House Health and Welfare Committee but did not receive a hearing until this session. He says he is hopeful that this ban will pass and ultimately become law in Idaho.

“I know that the next step for me, and for those who are advocating for a conversion therapy ban in Idaho, the next steps are to try to garner [the community’s] votes,” McCrostie said. “I feel very good about the fact that [the bill] represents the compromise and collaboration of all these disparate stakeholders. And so that’s what I would be hopeful with in advancing this in the legislature.”

Conversion therapy has been condemned by numerous states as an ineffective and dangerous practice.

Kacie Fromhart | The Arbiter The Trevor Project, a national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQIA+ youth, expressed their support for the legislature printing the bill and for McCrostie’s efforts.

“The Trevor Project applauds Representative John McCrostie and all fair-minded legislators in Idaho for taking the first step to protect the Gem State’s most vulnerable youth from the dangerous and discredited practice of conversion therapy,” said Troy Stevenson, campaign manager for 50 Bills 50 States at The Trevor Project, in a press release. “According to our research, LGBTQ youth who had undergone conversion therapy were more than twice as likely to attempt suicide than those who did not.

Implementing these vital protections will work to save young lives in Idaho.”

“When the therapies fail to deliver on the promise of change, severe depression and suicidality can be a result.”

Troy Williams, executive director of Equality Utah Equality Utah is an organization dedicated to securing statewide equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community, and executive director Troy Williams expressed immense support for the ban of conversion therapy,

specifically following the ban in Utah. He explained that the consequences of conversion therapy can be extreme. “[Conversion therapy] is a rejecting behavior that can put a client at odds with their family, faith and community,” Williams said. “When the therapies fail to deliver on the promise of change, severe depression and suicidality can be a result.”

Williams explained that young people may realize the therapy is not working, internalize it and feel like they failed. As a result, they lose hope and the results could be detrimental.

“Trying to force someone to change their sexual orientation is harmful,” Williams said. “The suicide rate is sobering.

This is something we need to stop.”

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NEWS

DINING SERVICES PRESENTS A POSSIBLE CHANGE TO ADD MORE FLEX DOLLARS

With the new school year approaching, Dining Services want to replace meal equivalencies with additional flex dollars Taylor Rico-Pekerol | News Reporter | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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ining Services presented a possible new plan at the Associated Students of Boise State University (ASBSU) assembly meeting regarding replacing meal equivalencies with more flex dollars.

Meal equivalencies give students the option to purchase a certain food item or meal from several locations on campus.

Flex dollars are considered to be additional money that students can use anywhere on campus, even if the place does not accept meal equivalencies.

Boise State freshmen living on campus are required to have a meal plan and other students oftentimes purchase one as well.

The three weekly meal plans available to students are the “True Blue,” “Orange 14” and the “Basic 14.”

The “True Blue” gives students unlimited meals throughout the week, 10 meal equivalencies per week and $200 in flex dollars. Aidan McConnehey, a freshman mechanical engineering major, has the “True Blue” meal plan.

“At first, I was kind of down with it because I liked the whole idea of having more options,” McConnehey said. “The way [the director of Dining Services] presented it made it sound like a really positive change. However, the more we kind of looked into it and the more we kind of talked about it and thought about it, the more we realized that it posed a lot of problems going forward.”

One of the main concerns expressed was the number of flex dollars students would be receiving. In the assembly meeting, it was discussed that in place of meal equivalencies students would be granted either $400 or $450 in flex dollars, according to McConnehey. This amount, as discussed by assembly members, is not equivalent to the number of meal equivalencies students are currently granted each week.

The number of flex dollars students would receive is not official yet. The Dining Services team is working with their

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providers to find meal plans equal or more beneficial than the current models that include equivalencies for students, according to Nicole Nimmons, the executive director of Campus Services.

“The average value of a meal equivalency’s price is just around $8,” Nimmons wrote in an email. “We do not have the recommended flex dollar conversion from our service provider. When we receive the survey results, and the recommendation of flex from our service provider, we will evaluate what is in the best interest of our students.”

Some students believed the plan to increase flex and eliminate meal equivalencies would be a good idea if the price of the meal plans were lowered. However, the opposite would actually be the case, according to Nimmons.

“We compare our meal plan pricing yearly to similar institutions and continue to be in the midpoint range,” Nimmons wrote. “We dedicate a lot of time and attention to the meal plan structure and pricing. We are not making this decision lightly and have sought out feedback from [the] current meal plan holders, students, staff and faculty.”

Nimmons is a part of the advisory board and is working with Dining Services to find a more inclusive way to incorporate people’s dietary restrictions. Eric Kline, a freshman business major, has the “Orange 14” meal plan with 14 meals a week, 5 meal equivalencies per week and $200 flex.

After reflecting on his usage of his meals, Kline believes the flex dollars would be more beneficial for him and would give him more dining options.

“As someone who doesn’t use my meal equivalencies, 250 more flex dollars in my account is just free money for me,” Kline said. “So for someone who doesn’t use most or all of their meal equivalencies, it makes more financial sense for them and it gives them more options.”

After Dining Services presented in the assembly meeting, a Food Services Adviso-

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A price for how many flex dollars will be added to meal plans has not been set yet.

Chandler Thornton | The Arbiter ry Board meeting was held with the director of University Dining Services and other staff members, according to Astrid Wilde, a junior Games, Interactive and Mobile Media (GIMM) major and member of the ASBSU assembly team.

In the advisory board meeting, the director mentioned statistics from a survey done in Towers Hall regarding the possible new plan. The director stated that the result was about half wanting to keep the original meal plans and half wanting more flex, according to Wilde.

Wilde has drafted a resolution that was presented in assembly outlining the wishes of assembly members and hopes that Din-

ing Services will listen to their opinions and take their suggestions into consideration.

“My personal opinion and what I’ve written in the resolution as well is if Dining Services and [the director of Dining Service] want to pursue changing the way that meal plans work for all students in the future, that they should actually take a vote by the current students who have a meal plan on whether or not they would have bought their current meal plan as it exists or the new meal plans as he’s proposing,” Wilde said.

NEWS

IDAHO REPRESENTATIVE PROPOSES BILL TO REPEAL PROPERTY TAX STATEWIDE If passed, this bill would raise state sales tax to 11% in order to make up for the deficit Madi Jones | Staff Writer | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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epublican Rep. Jason Monks, assistant majority leader in the Idaho House of Representatives, proposed a bill that would repeal property tax statewide. In order to do so, Idaho must increase state tax from 6% to 11%. The bill argues that property tax is unconstitutional and should be abolished.

“I think, fundamentally, property tax is an inherently evil tax. Simply because they prevent property right ownership,” Monks said.

Should this bill pass, Idaho will have the highest sales tax in the nation.

According to the Idaho Statesman, people of Ada County, specifically seniors, are being forced out of their homes due to the rise in property taxes. In early 2000, the average cost of property tax in Ada county was $1,116. In 2018, property taxes rose to an average $1,996, a 79% increase.

This increase in property tax motivated Rep. Monks to draft this legislation.

However, Monks does not believe the bill will become law this year.

“This was designed as a... thought exercise to have everybody understand how much property tax we’re collecting and what it would take if we wanted to get rid of it.”

Rep. Jason Monks

“This was designed as a thought grenade, or a thought exercise to have everybody understand how much property tax we’re really collecting and what it would take if we wanted to get rid of it,” Monks said. “It’s a more complicated solution

owners,” Bageant said. “Not to simply shift the tax burden to our lowest-earning neighbors, as this bill would do.”

Bageant understands that many people are being priced out of their homes and change needs to happen. However, he is also considering how this new bill would affect students. Most students do not own property, so property tax is not seen as an important issue.

“Shifting the tax burden away from property owners and to a sales tax, means that students would pay a larger percentage of the tax pie.”

Patrick Bageant, city council member

Should this bill pass, Idaho’s sales tax will increase by 5%, making it the highest sales tax rate in the nation.

Photo courtesy of Rep. Jason Monks

than just a simple thing of, ‘Hey, let’s raise sales tax so we can get rid of property tax.’ We could do that, but there’s a lot of ramifications and this bill helps flesh out those issues.”

Not everyone is in favor of this proposed bill. City council member Patrick

Bageant believes this bill is counterintuitive and does not have Idahoans’ best interest in mind.

“The reform that is needed is to raise the homeowner’s exemption and to right-size the allocation of taxes between home-owners and commercial property

“I think [this bill] would have a significant effect on students,” Bageant said.

“Shifting the tax burden away from property owners and to a sales tax, means that students would pay a larger percentage of the tax pie.”

Tavian Phonasa, a junior media arts major, believes that repealing property tax and increasing state tax would cause more problems in the future. As a college student, Phonasa says it is difficult to be financially stable in Boise’s current economic state.

“An increase on [state tax] would be like a slap in the face,” Phonasa said. “I’d have to rethink my budget. Essentially it would make a lot of things harder. I already don’t have a lot of money for things as it is, and if I have to pay more money for the things I need, it’s going to be very difficult.”

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OPINION FEBRUARY 18, 2020 | ARBITERONLINE.COM

REMEMBERING A RACIST HISTORY OF WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE A CENTURY LATER

White Americans are responsible for reframing history after centuries of whitewashing women’s movements Blake Hunter | Opinion Editor | opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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hite supremacy will be strengthened, not weakened, by women’s suffrage,” said white suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt in 1919, the year that Congress sent the 19th Amendment to the states for ratification to give women the right to vote.

Not all suffragists agreed with Catt or lobbied their politicians the way she did.

Prior to the abolishment of chattel slavery, famous suffragists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony supported abolition efforts. But when the 15th Amendment offered suffrage to black men and not women, white women began to lobby their cause to white men.

In celebrating the centennial passage of the 19th Amendment, and thereby suffragists and even the feminist movements of the 20th century, we are responsible for reframing how we educate our youth and ourselves. Effectively, black men could not vote even after the passage of the 15th Amendment. Similarly, black women were denied the vote well after the passage of the 19th Amendment through the oppression of Jim Crow. We are whitewashing if we tell ourselves that was unintentional.

We are whitewashing if we tell ourselves it is not happening today.

However, it is unfair to say that white suffragists and white women in general have been both the total engineers and benefactors of white supremacy. White men have always held the majority of political power in the United States and been the highest perpetrators of racial and sexual violence.

Suffragists exploited race as a critical divide to determine who holds power and access to that power. They helped construct the multiplicity of oppressions that

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The erasure of women of color and other groups has stained women’s movements for centuries. characterize being a woman and a person of color in America, which was defined in the 1990s by race scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw as intersectionality and has since moved to the forefront of social justice.

For those who know the racial history of the white women’s suffrage movement — which directly formed the feminist movements — the white supremacy and exploitation of white privilege is undeniable.

For some, it is easy to say, “That was back then,” and “Everyone was racist in those days,” which are veritable non-excuses that incorrectly assume that all people now possess equal levels of rights and access to prosperity. Whitewashing the critical movements made by black women, however, continues to this day.

Bronx-based activist Tarana Burke cre-

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ated the #MeToo movement on MySpace in 2006 to create online communities for people affected by sexual assault, harassment and violence. In 2018, the nation was riveted as millions of people took to Facebook and Twitter with the hashtag. In the following months, the focus became whitewashed as it began to increasingly shift towards white and rich people — mostly men — in Hollywood as they were accused by the women they worked with for sexual bias, harassment and assault.

That same year, Burke wrote a piece in Variety trying to shift the focus back to healing, and not just for rich white women.

“In 2006, I launched the #MeToo movement because I wanted to find ways to bring healing into the lives of black women and girls,” Burke wrote. “But those

Kacie Fromhart | The Arbiter

same women and girls, along with other people of color, queer people and disabled people, have not felt seen this year.”

Burke and many other activists and advocates working to end sexual violence are not trying to devalue the experiences of white women. They are, however, trying to disrupt the sexual violence where it is most pervasive.

As a white person, I grew up in “colorblind” spaces where each and every person knew when it was polite and appropriate to discuss race. Whitewashing is a tool of oppression. This Black History Month, the least we can do is stop whitewashing American history. Then maybe the rest of the year we can work collectively to ensure we stop doing it today.

OPINION

A DOCTORATE DEGREE IS NOT A PASS TO USE A RACIAL SLUR

Non-black professors have a responsibility to dismantle anti-blackness, not promote it senselessly Sarae Simpson | Guest Writer | opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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enrolled in a class about the history of human rights and race in America last fall during my last semester at Boise State. I was excited to analyze America’s history regarding racial justice and hoped it would be a class fostering crucial conversations about how far, or how not far at all, we have come. I expected us to examine the long history of racial injustice through conversations mediated by a professor who is well educated on the topic and capable of guiding the class in dismantling preconceptions or prejudices.

One of the first lectures focused on Idaho’s history of blackface and Ku Klux Klan rallies through a PowerPoint of images showing multitudes of instances where white people, including university professors, engaged in blackface. I understood the importance of accurately showing history as it occurred and not downplaying the foundational and systemic racism occurring. Soon, an image showed Idaho State University professors performing blackface with the title of the play captioned, including the “N-word.”

As its authentic title, I understand the importance of showing the picture and how blatantly the professors used a slur in the title. However, I was stunned as my professor, a white woman, breezed through the title, enunciating the “N-word” with no hesitation and the utmost boldness, and further disturbed that I seemed to be the only student fazed. The class lecture continued without her even bothering to explain why she would use the word herself, no matter the pronunciation, or even break down the volatile semantics and history of the slur.

A non-black professor using the most racialized and volatile slur in any form, especially in an academic setting, normalizes the use for white students and fails to engage in a learning dynamic to dismantle ignorance. Non-black people do not receive a pass to use the “N-word,” and the lesson would have held the same mean-

ing if replaced simply with the “N-word” when spoken.

A white professor showing the history of the Ku Klux Klan and blackface in Idaho holds a valuable opportunity to blatantly depict Idaho in its full racialized history.

However, a white professor sharing an identity with the white women in blackface does not come close to explaining why a professor still finds it appropriate to reassert the same oppressive verbiage in a modern university classroom.

The lesson did not include disassembling the semantics of the word, instead merely dropping the “N-word” nonchalantly and continuing the lecture. The word was written on the slide. All of the students present saw it and read it.

Professors need to portray what happened in the past, but this does not warrant invoking a slur. Good teaching does require talking about the richest, nastiest and most complex ranges of meaning in the English language.

Boise State is grotesquely lacking in racial diversity and most classrooms are white-dominant. Students of color — especially when they are the only person of color in the room during discussions on race — should never be subjected to faculty and staff using racial slurs during the process of their education.

We should not avoid holding these crucial conversations, discussing the power of words or learning about the context of certain language and diction. The “N-word” in context does hold explanatory value.

The usage of the “N-word” should not be complicated. As white people, we need to accept that perhaps in all of our privilege, in our dominant social position and power, there is one word we do not get to participate in using, and that is OK. A university professor using a racial slur utilizes the very same tools of oppression used historically to maintain oppression and deny agency.

We do not need a white professor to

19th and 20th century vaudeville and minstrel shows commonly included blackface and racial slurs.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons/Library of Congress enunciate a slur for the “shock factor” or a “chilling effect,” and it is demeaning to believe that is necessary. As Ta-Nehisi Coates stated, “When you’re white in this country, you’re taught everything belongs to you.”

That includes language.

A professor teaching a class on human rights and race in America holds a unique position, especially in a white-dominant classroom, to break down and dismantle the normalization of slurs, but instead, I experienced a professor with a doctorate degree displaying that she has the privilege to selectively dabble in volatile language for “honest context.”

White people and especially white professors supposedly fostering the space to engage with and dismantle flawed logic fail

their students when they refuse to confront their own racist behaviors or consider criticism toward the power of even subliminal racial bias. I am advocating for a space where white fragility, especially in white women, can be examined and critiqued, from one white woman to another.

HAVE A COMMENT OR REBUTTAL? EMAIL US AT: OPINION@STUMEDIA.BOISESTATE.EDU

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MAKING MOVES TOWARD MENTAL WELLNESS

F E AT U R E

HOW PHYSICAL ACTIVIT Y AND SUPPORT SYSTEMS CAN FORGE A PATH TO IMPROVED MENTAL HEALTH DELANEY BRASSIL | SPORTS & REC EDITOR | SPORTS@STUMEDIA.BOISESTATE.EDU

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hen senior visual arts major Sabrina Sergott was a sophomore in high school, she thought it was normal for her to be as stressed as she was.

She frequently skipped class because she felt anxious and distracted. One day, with the eyes of her entire school on her, Sergott collapsed in the middle of a halftime performance at a basketball game, unable to breathe and terrified that she was having a heart attack.

“My mom rushed me to the doctor and it turned out it was just a panic attack,” Sergott said. “I knew right then I needed to make changes in my life because I was tired of being so scared.”

Sergott was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety. She met with doctors and ther-

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apists who gave her the tools to prevent panic attacks, including an anti-anxiety medication. After slowly going off the medication following an allergic reaction, she continued to attend weekly therapy.

Sergott’s therapist suggested physical activity as a remedy.

“My therapist recommended I find a way to naturally release my anxiety. She told me about a patient she had who would dance in her room when she felt anxious,” Sergott said. “That inspired me to go to the gym and join local sports like ultimate frisbee and kickball. I even joined the BSU ski club.”

Exercise is only one aspect of living a healthy lifestyle, but its impact on the brain makes it a commonly recommended tool. This “prescription,” paired with

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support and accommodations, can be an effective solution for managing and improving mental health.

Exercise as medicine Nate Fauntleroy, a licensed social worker for Boise State Counseling Services, suggests exercise to all of his patients.

“I do recommend it to everyone, especially folks who are considering going on medications,” Fauntleroy said. “Everyone’s body is different, but I’ve always kind of, as a general practice knowledge, told people that if they can get themselves to sweat three times a week on three different days, that’ll have the same psychological effect as an introductory dose of an antidepressant or an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor).”

David Rosenberg, a professor of psychiatry and neuroscience at Wayne State University, cited research in 2018 showing that close to 1 in 5 college students struggles with anxiety or depression. Exercise can help those with anxiety because of the effect it has on the body, according to Fauntleroy.

“It forces the mind’s attention to be on the body, which pulls it away from ruminating or erasing thoughts about the future or the past,” Fauntleroy said. “Which is why exercise is normally helpful for creating patterns in which we’re more thoughtful about the way that we feel now and less thoughtful about the things that are coming or the things that have already happened.”

Sergott has found that bikram yoga has proved the most beneficial for managing her anxiety. She enjoys the heavy breathing and challenging poses, as well as the mind-clearing meditation.

“After I leave the studio, I feel like a stronger, calmer woman,” Sergott said. “I definitely think exercising has helped me become a less anxious person. Ever since I started working out again, I sleep easier, study and work harder and I make healthier choices when I eat. I also find myself being more sociable.”

Like Sergott, it is crucial that students find their remedy before internal tension builds. Dr. Eric Martin, an assistant professor for the Department of Kinesiology, teaches several classes on sport and exercise psychology, which focus on how physical activity influences a range of consequences.

“We know that a lot of mental health issues start as more acute things, so things like stress. If we never deal with that stress, it can build until we don’t have the capabilities to handle them and they develop more into that mental health issue,” Martin said. “...So if we can use exercise in that way to eliminate stress, we can hopefully move back towards that more healthy aspect on the continuum.”

While exercise is among the most common recommendations for those working on their mental health, it is just one piece of the puzzle.

Building support For those seeking wellness and balance, BroncoFit has worked to develop the all-encompassing “Dimensions of Wellness” featuring eight key components: emotional, physical, financial, occupational, social,

spiritual, intellectual and environmental.

“We know we want people to find community and so we offer programs in all types of wellness areas,” said Holly Levin, assistant director of BroncoFit. “But the main purpose is that we’re connecting students with things that interest them and with others, and hopefully keeping them well while they’re here.”

Because there is no universal definition for physical activity, fulfilling this particular dimension of wellness can be accomplished in many ways.

“Sometimes when we think ‘exercise,’ our mind maybe has a certain picture,” Levin said. “But really just walking can be a great place to start. I think sometimes people think that walking is not enough but if somebody isn’t exercising, walking is a fantastic place to start, especially if you enjoy nature and you can combine your physical activity with being outside.”

Five years ago, sophomore pre-business major Morgan Hett was diagnosed with adrenal fatigue, meaning that her adrenal glands were exhausted and not producing enough hormones. According to Hett, adrenal fatigue is usually caused by chronic stress or infection; in her case, it was due to anxiety and a poor diet.

Hett sought treatment from an applied kinesiologist, who suggested a change in diet and to go on walks or runs any time that she feels sluggish. While this may seem like a simple solution, the act of training her body to respond to fatigue with exercise was not an easy task.

“It was very difficult for me to find the motivation to go out and work out when I felt exhausted and depressed for most of the day,” Hett said. “Some days are still harder to motivate myself to go out.”

Hett has enlisted the help of her friends and dogs to motivate her on those harder days.

“I found if I had someone relying on me, I could be more motivated than if it were just myself,” Hett said.

A commonly recommended solution for overcoming those feelings of apprehension is to utilize a support system like Hett has. This could mean getting a gym buddy, joining a team or finding someone who can help make reminders of short or long-term goals.

“Having a support system in place, people in your life who encourage you to be active, people in your life who are

concerned about your health and your welfare, including your mental health… that awareness, or the awareness of a community, of all of the benefits of physical activity helps provide that social support that we all need to stay active,” said Dr. Bob Wood of the School of Allied Health Sciences.

Campus Recreation is working to help students find that support system. Rodo Leone, Campus Recreation’s associate director of programs and student development, strives to make the Rec a diverse and inclusive space.

Roughly a month ago, all group fitness classes at the Rec became free for anyone with a membership. The Rec is also offering fitness classes at Towers Hall, one of the furthest dorms from the center. By training their fitness attendants on inclusion and sociability, the Rec is seeking to make patrons feel more comfortable.

“The purpose of having that position is to kind of bring [down] the level of intimidation that this place can cause by having people who are visible and identifiable,” Leone said. “We are training them to be social and to try to help people without being invasive.”

Another way the Rec is aiming to help its student patrons to gain confidence and feel included is by modeling their staff after the student population, such as hiring fitness attendants of many different majors and experience levels.

Of the many ideas Leone has to accommodate the gym’s population, some include adding braille and QR codes to exercise machines, turning a fitness room into a stretching space and creating a feedback form for reporting needs or suggesting improvements.

By alleviating the concerns of intimidating spaces, the Rec is on its way to supporting students in their pursuit of the dimensions of wellness. Whether it is at a gym, on a running trail or even in the comfort of one’s own home, having a support system is a key to accomplishing the sometimes daunting task of tackling your mental and physical fitness.

“It is very daunting to set out with a goal of ‘I am going to cure my mental health,’” Hett said. “Start small with ‘I am gonna change my outlook on today by working out.’ Bring a friend so you don’t feel as alone and you have someone to keep you motivated. It is always easier with someone but once you get in that routine you can start to rely on yourself and your body will expect it.”

F E AT U R E

Exercise means different things to everyone, so even going on a simple walk can benefit your mental health. Thus, some physical activity is better than none at all.

Mackenzie Hudson | The Arbiter

C U LT U R E FEBRUARY 18, 2020 | ARBITERONLINE.COM

STUDENTS WITH MIGRATORY FAMILIES FIND RESOURCES THROUGH CAMP

The program helps first-generation students with added difficulties throughout their college career Will Meyer | Culture Editor | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu

Students have access to a variety of support systems designed to help them succeed.

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ustling around the Bishop Barnwell room inside the Student Union Building, a mixed group of students moves around tables with large orange signs scattered across them, blazoned with various large companies.

The group has gathered for a career success class composed of the newest members of the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP), an organization that assists migratory and seasonal workers, as well as children of such workers, in transitioning to college.

The career success class is one of many ways that CAMP works with students on skills that will eventually allow them a smooth transition into the professional world.

“We provide counseling/advising services, tutoring, some of that tutoring is done by adjunct professors at Boise State,

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and some by former CAMP students,” said Maria Gonzalez Mabbutt, follow-up and career counselor for CAMP. “We have seven peer mentors that meet with the students once a week, so basically students consider CAMP ‘home base.’”

CAMP, which is a national organization funded by the federal government, works with primarily first-generation students who have either done farm work or have parents who do so, according to Mabbutt.

“I always feel very blessed having the opportunity to work with these students,” Mabbutt said. “My work follows them until they graduate whether from this university or any other university.”

Mabbutt said that CAMP is built to ensure that students who have added difficulties upon entering college have the specific support they need to succeed, as well as offering a communal space where they

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Will Meyer | The Arbiter

can mingle amongst other students with similar backgrounds. As well as supporting students already in college, CAMP travels to communities to speak with students who may be interested in attending college without the means or understanding of how to do so.

“I think specifically the population that we work with can be a very vulnerable population, and they can miss out on opportunities to even start that journey into higher [education],” said Michelle Kelley, director of CAMP. “Families that are needing support in knowing how to send their son or daughter to school, and helping to explain that process is really important [sic].”

Kelley said that CAMP staff will attend various events at different high schools and talk to students as early as their freshman year. By doing this, they make a connec-

tion to ensure that students understand that college is a tangible option for them, and establish CAMP as a resource if they decide to take advantage of it.

“There’s a lot of assistance that’s needed in just helping the students acclimate to the college environment and getting all that figured out,” Kelley said. “One of the things that I think is very important is that our students will complete the first year of college at rates usually beyond what our institutional averages are.”

After students finish their first year with the CAMP program, many will come back to work for the program and provide assistance to the incoming cohort. One of these students is Gerardo Herrera, a junior studying electrical engineering. “[CAMP] kind of helped me get my foot in the door since most of the people they target are first-generation college students,” Herrera said. “And so they help you a lot with the applications, the application fees, FAFSA, all the important stuff you need to know for college.”

When first arriving, Herrera said that CAMP made sure he was well-informed about his options before making any decisions that would affect his college career.

“I think one of the best things about it would be how they really focus on your academics, so they really want you to be successful and they give you all the resources,” Herrera said. “You make a big network of family, so everyone helps each other, and everyone’s got your back. That’s something that’s important when you first come to college and you don’t know anybody.”

C U LT U R E

NEW CLUB CONTINUES TO EXPAND CULTURAL COMMUNITIES ON CAMPUS

Arabic Club seeks to educate and bring awareness to students about Arabic culture Michelle Johnson | Culture Reporter | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu

W

hen Grace Hall began her first semester at Boise State University, she felt lost and unsure of where to find a community to which she felt connected.

While adapting to campus life and various day-to-day activities, she soon thought about the many clubs that are active at Boise State.

While looking into a club that could potentially be a great fit, she realized that there were not many students sharing the same interests as her. As a freshman global studies major, Hall is also studying the Arabic language, which prompted her to start the Arabic Club.

“My first semester at Boise State, all of my friends were at other schools, I didn’t know anybody and I wanted to major in Arabic, but Boise State doesn’t have that, so I felt lost,” Hall said. “So I looked at the clubs and ended up in like four clubs and a club sport, which helped make me more comfortable. But I ended up creating the Arabic Club so people with the same interests could find it and be a part of it.”

Dalia Elgamel is a professor teaching the Arabic language and Arabic novels, as well as the club’s adviser. As the adviser, she helps think of new ideas that the students can implement into the club and ultimately gave the students the extra push they needed to create the organization.

“I was just throwing ideas out to students one day. ‘What do you think about an Arabic Club?’ Because we want to do some cultural activities,” Elgamel said.

While the club is still in its formation stage, the vision is strong. Bringing cultural awareness and the understanding of Arabic culture to campus is one of their main focuses. Liam Carter, a freshman global studies major, is the vice president of the club and works with Hall to ensure their objectives remain as the foundation of the club.

“The main thing we are trying to push out there is the cultural understanding of the Arabic culture,” Carter said. “Because, in general, there is a lot of misunderstanding surrounding the culture and that’s

Cultural diversity grows throughout campus within new clubs such as the Arabic Club. kind of where I came from, my family not understanding this culture.”

The club is open to anyone, no matter their level of knowledge of Arabic culture.

Hall discusses what they are pushing to introduce and what they hope to grow into as the club expands.

“Right now, we’re focusing on certain aspects of the culture, like art, food and movies, and laying out easier stuff,” Hall said. “But my goal eventually is to get more involved with educating people on

the origins of Middle Eastern conflicts or getting conversations started between Muslim students and other students in a very healthy and proactive environment.”

As a new club, the importance of events to draw students in is a key factor. A few of their ideas include experiencing Arabic cuisine, movie nights and visiting a local mosque.

“One of the things we are looking at doing and we are actually working with another professor is going to the library,” Carter said. “We would read Arabic books to kids there, and we

Chandler Thornton | The Arbiter are also looking into visiting a local mosque to see and understand what it is like.”

Cultural clubs can bring a great amount of knowledge and diversity to campus and the Arabic Club is hoping to do just that.

Clubs such as this can have great impacts on both students in and outside of them.

“I think clubs have a very important role on campus,” Elgamel said. “It’s important to know more and bridge that cultural gap between Americans and every other region because cultural diversity will really enrich us.”

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C U LT U R E

A LOOK INSIDE THE WORK OF BOISE STATE’S RESIDENT ASSISTANTS

The student employees seek to provide resources and connections to students who reach out Paige Wirta | Staff Writer | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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rom freshmen living on campus to seniors living in their own houses, most Boise State students have interacted with a resident assistant (RA) in one way or another. RAs have a range of responsibilities and experiences, making them great resources for students.

Natalie Magnus, a sophomore computer science major, became an RA this semester in University Suites.

“It’s been so great getting to know everyone. We really try to make it like one big family,” Magnus said. “I just want to make the best of it, try to make as many connections as I can.”

Oftentimes, RAs themselves inspire younger students to apply for the position in the future.

“My freshman year RA was super nice, and she always was willing to reach out and connect with us,” Magnus said. “I met up with her and talked with her about applying for the role, and she really encouraged me to go for it. I think having a good RA that you’re connected with kind of makes it so you can see what it’s like to be in their position and see yourself doing it.”

It’s not always easy to put oneself in a position of responsibility for others’ safety. While anyone can apply for the job, Magnus thinks there might be certain qualities in a person that can make it a better experience.

“You need to be confident and be able to put yourself out there,” Magnus said. “You need to be willing to connect with others and inspire your own confidence in others.”

Good training is a vital part of any successful job. Training at the beginning of the school year is typically two weeks long.

“Training was definitely something that was impactful. There were some tough situations that we as RAs have to get trained for, and those are not necessarily easy to talk about,” said Riley Anderson, a sophomore kinesiology

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Lynda Tieck, associate director of Housing and Residence Life, works closely with RAs and helps connect students with their accompanying RAs.

“RAs are available to their students beyond expectations. They have literally saved people’s lives. They are creative and try to connect with students in so many different ways.”

Lynda Tieck, associate director of Housing and Residence Life

“RAs are available to their students beyond expectations,” Tieck said. “They have literally saved people’s lives. They are creative and try to connect with students in so many different ways. It is hard to enforce policy and be considered the bad guy[…] when, in reality, we just want people to be safe and things can go sideways quickly.”

There are about 90 RAs working at Boise State, giving residents many opportunities to get involved and connected on campus.

“Don’t be afraid to reach out,” Magnus said. “We have connections and can share resources that can help make your experience a lot better. I don’t think a lot of people tend to take advantage of that.”

Student residents have a plethora of Housing staff undergo extensive training to ensure that they are equipped to serve resources available, but it can be difficult a variety of student needs. reaching out to someone not very well

Photo by Paige Wirta known. By creating good relationships major. “The training was pretty long, but “I believe I have a great relationship with residents, RAs can connect students I do believe it was worth everyone’s time with all of my residents on my floor,” Anwith resources they might not have had and was very educational.” derson said. “My goal is to make their first access to before. RAs work to maintain a Additionally, making goals helps RAs semester a little easier when I can, whethsafe, comfortable environment for resiensure that they are in check with their er that be connecting them to resources or dents through connecting with them. job and supporting their residents. being someone to listen when needed.”

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C U LT U R E

DANCE MARATHON RETURNS WITH BIGGER GOALS THAN EVER

Concentration on funds earned continues to inspire the club to make the event better Haylie Juelch | Staff Writer | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu

The club is preparing for another year with even more participation and more donations.

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he Dance Marathon team exceeded a large fundraising goal on Jan. 16 by raising over $26,000 in a single day. By hosting small fundraising events leading up to their main event of dancing for 12 straight hours overnight, the club raises funds for St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital every year.

The student-run organization was created in 2013 in which they raised $5,000. Just five years later, in 2019, they raised just over $208,000. This year, the group’s total goal is $216,000, which will put the fundraising total for the past eight years at $1 million.

The total raised will be revealed on Feb. 29 at 10 a.m after the Dance Marathon concludes.

“I feel pretty confident. We have a good team this year of people who are dedicated to the kids, not even to raising our goal, but they are very dedicated to helping as

much as they can,” said junior psychology major Megan Pfohl, vice president of Dance Marathon.

The organization starts its fundraising and recruitment early in order to raise money before the event. Raising money in one day is a larger event that Dance Marathon does, along with their Grilled Cheese Feed on Jan. 17. They also partner with businesses in the community for givebacks, like Dutch Bros Coffee.

Additionally, Greek life holds a great impact on the success of Dance Marathon.

Executive team members often go to Greek chapter meetings and talk to members about the importance of their involvement. Since this community is one of the largest on-campus and focuses on philanthropy, it is utilized to spread the word of Dance Marathon in a significant way.

“We had kind of an unspoken ‘compe-

tition’ between the frats and sororities to see who could raise the most,” said senior biology major Tessa Steele, a former Alpha Gamma Delta member.

Although the majority of Dance Marathon participants are in Greek life, everyone is welcome.

“Any student attending Boise State is highly encouraged to get involved and attend the event,” said senior health science major Anna Welsh, Dance Marathon president. “Although a lot of Greek life attends, it is most definitely not just for Greek life. I’m not in a sorority, but found my home, my best friends and my passion in Dance Marathon.”

This year, students have the option of texting “camp dm” to 51555 to register. They will then be sent a registration link. Students can sign up as individuals or with a team.

“Teams are big for Dance Marathon,”

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Mabbutt Pfohl said. “It’s a lot easier to be like, ‘All your friends are signing up, why don’t you sign up?’”

Dance Marathon is a way to meet new people, have a new experience and raise money for a local cause with a passionate group of fellow students.

“I loved it. I am amazed by the people who can do it all night. When you’ve been dancing all night, the last hour or two is rough. But, you’ve made it through the night, you need to push through and stay until the end. It is so worth it when you see how much money you raised for all the kids,” Steele said.

This year, the event will begin at 6 p.m. on Feb. 28 and end at 10 a.m. on Feb. 29.

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SPORTS & REC FEBRUARY 18, 2020 | ARBITERONLINE.COM

SOPHOMORE HURDLER DAFNI GEORGIOU BREAKS 60-METER SCHOOL RECORD Georgiou brings a competitive edge to Boise State’s track and field team while adjusting to life in America

D

Autum Robertson | Sports Reporter | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu

afni Georgiou had always dreamed of coming to the United States to continue her education and track career.

Originally from Cyprus, over 6,000 miles separated Georgiou from America.

Georgiou’s mother helped make her dream come true. She emailed Georgiou’s results from her track career in Cyprus to coaches all around the United States and she soon heard back from Boise State. That was the start of Georgiou’s college career.

From there, it took off fast.

In her sophomore season at the 2020 Ed Jacoby Invitational, Georgiou broke the Boise State record for the women’s 60-meter hurdle with a time of 8.50 seconds. The previous record of 8.52 seconds was set in 2009 by Megan Olivetti.

“I was expecting to break it because, before I came here, I had [a] personal best of better than the record,” Georgiou said.

“So I was hoping that it will happen this year because it didn’t happen last year. I was really happy about it. My first race went really good.”

When Georgiou broke the 11-year-old record, she only looked the slightest bit impressed with herself when she reflected on it. Georgiou was quick to say her goal this season is to break her personal best, which she said is 0.01 seconds faster than the university record.

Georgiou’s nonchalant response eluded to what her coach and teammates call her strength: competitiveness.

“She’s uber-competitive, like uber-competitive, and especially with herself,” said assistant coach Gavin O’Neal. “I think that’s good for the group, for people to see her [and] her competitiveness. I think it raises everybody else up a little bit.”

Sophomore MaLeigha Menegatti is

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Georgiou broke the women’s 60-meter hurdle record at the 2020 Ed Jacoby Invitational.

Georgiou’s teammate, roommate and best friend and was there to watch the record-breaking run. Menegatti says she was warming up but stopped when she realized her friend was about to race.

“I knew from the beginning. She got out super well and I knew she was going to run fast because [she was] disappointed the day before,” Menegatti said. “[She said] ‘I’m just gonna have fun and compete.’ I was screaming and jumping up and down and then she saw the time and then she went crazy she was like ‘Yeah!’ and said some Greek words.”

Georgiou’s competitiveness and motivation to refine her skills is clear even when she is not racing. Georgiou is always looking to improve with everything she does.

“She’s really worked on her English,” O’Neal said with a smile. “She really likes living here and being here which is very different from being from Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean [that has] beau-

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tiful weather all the time. She’s adapted really well here to those kinds of things.”

It is clear that Menegatti and Georgiou’s bond is strong. The two say they do everything together. Menegatti was even able to take Georgiou to her hometown of Pueblo West, Colo. so she could experience her first Thanksgiving.

When asked how she had watched herself grow over the past two years, Georgiou did not know how to respond, coyly saying her mindset was different. But when Georgiou turned to Menegatti, she lit up and immediately began listing the little differences she had noticed.

“I feel like you were different at how you approach situations. Now, you’re more outgoing and your perspective on things [has changed],” Menegatti said to Georgiou. “I feel like you’ve learned a lot about how America works, like grocery shopping and tipping.”

The two laughed when Menegatti

Photo courtesy of Clay Hendricks

mentioned tipping, but Georgiou admitted that it was really one of the hardest adjustments for her. Georgiou says she was most surprised by some mannerisms Americans have.

“People here are always welcoming, and hold the doors and are just so kind to you, even when they don’t know you they smile to one person just because,” Georgiou said.

Though Georgiou has enjoyed her time in Boise, she plans to go back to Cyprus to pursue a professional career in track after graduating.

“Living without my parents, living in the country 10,000 miles away, is so different and we have a different culture,” Georgiou said. “Boise is so much different than Cyprus.”

Georgiou’s next chance to break her personal record is the Last Chance College Elite Meet in Seattle, Wash. that will take place on Feb. 21 and 22.

SPORTS & REC

GIVING THE OUTDOOR PROGRAM A TRY BRONCOS DEFEATED BY NO. 4 SDSU

Student staff encourages peers to join the Rec’s spring trips

The Aztecs held the Broncos to a season-low 55 points

Manny Garcia | Staff Writer | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu

Autum Robertson | Sports Reporter | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu

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ith the semester in full swing, weekly schedules have become routine for students. For many students, breaking those habits often comes from seeking leisure and new activities.

The Rec Center has become a notorious place for students to detox from the stresses the semester brings. Under the umbrella of the Rec Center, the Outdoor Program provides options for students to enjoy nature with experts and fellow students.

White water rafting, snowshoeing, visiting hot springs and weekend backpacking trips are just a few of the activities the Outdoor Program is offering this semester.

When looking at a wide selection of activities the Rec Center provides, it is easy to understand students’ confusion on where to begin.

“Anyone can talk to student staff and they can inform you about any of the resources and activities that are coming up,” said Jared Cox, associate director of programs and communication at the Rec Center. “The great part about this as well is that all the trips are student-led, and many of the same student leaders have gone on these same trips as well.”

Jordon Frank, the Outdoor Program coordinator, has seen great growth in student confidence after they try brand new activities, such as kayaking, for the first time. He has seen firsthand how students can change their attitudes once they show up and enjoy the experience.

“The biggest advice I ask from students doing events is showing up, our staff will greet you with a smile and they will provide everything you need,” Frank said.

“Being spontaneous and creative can help make your experience a memorable one.”

Many of the same students that have taken part in Outdoor Program trips in the past have now joined the student staff team.

Dani Ruffing, a senior in global studies, has been part of the Outdoor Program student staff team for over two years.

“The growth I’ve had while working here has shown in many areas of my life,” Ruffing said. “I’ve become a different person, both personal and professional, and I also have been supported by many encouraging and awesome people.”

Another member of the student staff team is Hamad Alkhaldi. He is currently in his fourth year of the electrical engineering program. Before he started working as a climbing gym assistant and trip leader, he spent his first 18 years living in Qatar.

“So two years ago, I had zero experiences with the Outdoor Program. Once I began working for them, I came with an open mind, which helped me grow in this environment,” Alkhaldi said. “Since working here, I feel I am at home. I’m basically working all the time, whether it’s early morning and late nights and I can build relationships with the people who use the Rec, which has been one of my favorite parts of this job.”

Both Ruffing and Alkhaldi mentioned that numerous students go on outdoor trips alone, and leave with future best friends and even future roommates.

“The most amazing thing I saw was people going from not knowing one [another] at all, to later discussing becoming roommates the next year,” Alkhaldi said.“That all happened in seven days and that still amazes me.”

UPCOMING TRIPS

FEBRUARY 22

INTRO TO CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

MARCH 7

SNOWSHOE & HOT SPRING

MARCH 19

WHITEWATER KAYAK BASIC

MARCH 21

CALIFORNIA COAST BACKPACKING

APRIL 5

SPRING BRUNEAU SAND DUNES HIKE

APRIL 11

YURT YOGA BACKPACKING

Mackenzie Hudson | The Arbiter

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he Broncos were looking to split their series with the No. 4 San Diego State Aztecs when they came to ExtraMile Arena on Sunday, Feb. 16. This did not happen.

In front of a sold-out crowd, Boise State was defeated 55-72.

“The crowd showed out,” said Justinian Jessup. “We really appreciate that and just didn’t get it done, straight up. They outplayed us in pretty much every facet so it’s disappointing for sure.”

The Bronco’s came out shooting against the Aztecs, but most of those shots were misfires. As the shots continued to go in and out of the basket, Boise State went 0-3 to start the game.

The Broncos first made basket came with 17:23 to go: Derrick Alston got things going by using the board to assist a layup to himself.

Despite Alston’s layup, the Aztecs were too much for the Broncos. San Diego played excellent defense, shutting down the Broncos’ chances at scoring by holding them to 11 for 27 on field goals in the first half.

“I just saw pressuring really in the gaps forcing us to kind of kick out and a couple

of times [we were] kind of over penetrated,” Alston said. “[San Diego] kind of jumped in there [and we] didn’t know what to do, so credits to their defense.”

The Aztecs forced the Broncos to make a couple of gut-wrenching turnovers including Jessup, who had a bad pass turnover with a little under 10 minutes to go in the first half. This resulted in a fastbreak layup from the Aztecs.

The Aztecs ended the game with 11 steals and 15 forced turnovers, holding the Broncos to a season-low 55 points.

At the half the Broncos were down 40-26.

The second half showed some promise from the Broncos who had a 10-0 run about 10 minutes in and momentarily shut down the Aztecs. But the Aztecs are 26-0 on the season for a reason and had an answer for everything the Broncos would serve.

“They answered, with some great plays and deep shots...,” said head coach Leon Rice. “Good teams you can make a mistake, and [say], ‘Oh we screwed that up but they missed the shot.’ Great teams, every mistake you make they make you pay and I saw that tonight. Every mistake we made, they made us pay.”

Jessup led the Broncos with 22 points and Alston followed with 12. Every other Bronco that saw action combined for 21 points. Not a single Bronco outside of Jessup and Alston scored over four points.

“You can’t just have one or two guys play a great game,” Rice said. “To beat the number four team in the nation, you got to have everything clicking. But again, like I said, you got to give them a lot of credit for their defense.”

The Broncos were outperformed in every phase. The poor defense allowed for five different Aztecs to score in double-digits.

The Aztecs were led by their leading top scorer Malachi Flynn who had 22 points.

Boise State has fallen to fifth place in the Mountain West and will travel to San Jose to take on the Spartans on Feb. 19.

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SPORTS & REC

GROWING CLUB GOLF TEAM TO ATTEND FIRST TOURNAMENT IN APRIL

A new semester for Boise State club golf brings noticeable team growth and more practice opportunities Emily Lamb | Sports Reporter | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu

In September 2019, club golf became the 21st club sports team to come to campus.

W

ith their first semester behind them, the Boise State golf club has reached new growth and is gaining more opportunities as spring begins. Since the club’s creation in September, the team has gone from five to 10 members.

After doubling the roster, the team is looking to continue growing and attend more tournaments as they become available. Carson Inglin, the golf club president, is hopeful and excited for this coming year.

“Our goal is to play more, practice more

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FEBRUARY 18, 2020

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and participate in two tournaments this semester,” Inglin said. “For this semester, our main goal is to attend a tournament because we haven’t done that yet and we want to start to consistently participate in them.”

The golf club was not able to compete in any tournaments last semester in the National Collegiate Club Golf Association (NCCGA). However, this did not hold them back, as they have their first official tournament on April 18, 2020.

The location of the tournament is still being determined, but will most likely be played in northern Utah or southern

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Idaho. The Broncos will be competing with clubs with colleges such as University of Utah, Utah State and BYU. For Inglin, the chance to compete against other schools and strengthen the chemistry of the Boise State team makes the club opportunity immensely more beneficial.

New members of the team include Dylan Brajevich and Bailee Zanone.

Cameron Tafoya, the vice president of the golf club, has continued to be an involved leader as well.

“I joined the club as soon as I learned about it,” Brajevich said. “I felt like it would be a good way to stay active with

sports and there will be less opportunity to do something with golf after college.”

Curtis Posner, another new member to the organization, confirmed that the club is open to all players of any skill level, from casual to competitive.

“I joined the golf club right after winter break,” Posner said. “I played all throughout high school, and so instead of playing just for fun I wanted to play competitively and meet more people.”

The team currently practices about once a week, depending on the weather, at Warm Springs Golf Course. They have played at Indian Lakes Golf Club, Quail Hollows Golf Course and a small nine-hole course.

“Once the weather becomes more consistent, we will practice twice a week,” Inglin said. “There is also a good deal at local courses where, if you go after 4 p.m., you only have to pay $10 to play and the carts cover the rest, so this will make it more affordable.”

When the weather becomes more consistent, the team expects to play on the weekends and practice as much as possible.

The team is focused on continuing its growth in numbers and going out and having a good time while playing competitively still.

Club golf will be participating in one more local volunteer opportunity this semester at the Idaho Food Bank sometime in April.

The team has doubled since the fall, but in order to reach their goals of competing in more tournaments with a solid team, they are still searching for more members.

“You can expect us to go out and have a good time and represent Boise State well,” Brajevich said.

ARIES

MARCH 20 - APR 20

You have been stuck in your head lately, Aries.

You have been contemplative and getting lost in a dream world, but beware when your thoughts are only inward. It is easy for you to become trapped in self-criticism, issues in identity and problem solving.

Right now, others are waiting for your attention. Be presently aware of your wandering thoughts.

TAURUS

APR 20 - MAY 21

You do not have to feel bad about purchasing something you need this week, Taurus. There is a possession or item that can be seen as a tool which will contribute to your personal success. Do not let yourself be over-indulgent or dangerously impulsive, but do give yourself that thing you have been wanting for some time.

GEMINI

CH

20

MAY 21 - JUN 21

8 FEB 1

PISCES:

-M

AR

You have been so confident in your communication and how easily problems were rushing past you, Pisces, that you may have let a few key things fall to the wayside. Take a detailed look at how you have been handling things and make room for improvement. Now is the time to be reflective and think about the self. You may raise some good, but large personal questions.

Focus on your perceptions this week, Gemini.

There is something off-kilter in your life that is hiding just beneath the surface. This issue relies on your honesty and perceptive mind to uncover it and address it accordingly.

CANCER

JUN 21 - JULY 23 You realize this week, Cancer, that you have been resisting change in some ways. There is a transformation waiting for you beneath the surface, but first you must train yourself to be receptive to it.

LEO

JUL 23 - AUG 23

You are going to feel deflated this week, Leo. It is easy for you to be very hard and critical of yourself. However, that is not conducive to the momentum of progress you have built. Try to understand that occasional road blocks are going to happen.

VIRGO

AUG 23 - SPET 23

You have seen others being taken over by issues of vanity and personal gain. Applaud yourself for recognizing those same behaviors in yourself.

Take time to address those areas in your life which you feel have slightly gotten away from yourself.

LIBRA

SEPT 23 - OCT 22

There have been eyes on you lately, Libra, but you have not been feeling great about it. You feel like you want to blend into the background a bit and fit into the workings of the world. You want to feel useful and as if you are contributing to a larger mechanism for other’s happiness and yours as well.

SCORPIO

OCT 23- NOV 21 You have had some items of interest in the back of your mind for a while now, Scorpio, but you have not felt confident enough to go get them.

Do not indulge in avoidance. Execute stepping stone plans that bring you closer to your goal.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 22

You are coming to realize that it is possible that the way you process events is different than others around you and now is the time to be sensitive to that. It is easy to deal with things as they come to you, but also think about being a bit more proactive in addressing bigger problems.

CAPRICORN

DEC 22 - JAN 20

You are overwhelmed right now, Cap. You are having a hard time keeping up the confidence to handle your busy life. With the big projects you have on your plate, you are doing a good job handling them but you feel just a second away from dropping it all. Do not let yourself become discouraged. You will come out the other side knowing you did more than you ever thought possible.

AQUARIUS

JAN 20 - FEB 17

Areas of your life, which previously felt more pressing, have gotten out of the way for you, Aquarius. You can no longer ignore the nourishment you need. Are you taking care of your health in the best way you can? Getting enough sleep?

Having those deep and meaningful interactions with those close to you that you want? Treat yourself kindly by doing these things.

TRISHA KANGAS SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

TRISHAKANGAS@BOISESTATE.EDU

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