The Orion - Fall 2012, Issue 15

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volume 69 Issue 15

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WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12, 2012

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DUI arrest made after student hit by pickup truck

Party culture

Survey informs Chico State’s alcohol plan

35%

Freshmen reported binge drinking before starting college

Pedro Quintana Staff Writer

A Chico State student suffered life-threatening injuries after getting hit by a car about 3 a.m.

Saturday on the corner of Walnut and West First streets.

Brandon Fisher, 21, was transported to Enloe Medical Center after being hit by a pickup truck, accord“We’re all concerned ing to a Chico Police about Brandon, and Departwe’re all pulling for ment press release. The him.” driver then pulled over joe wills director of public affairs and into a nearby publications parking lot.

Police arrested the driver of the vehicle, Butte College student Matthew Lambert, 20, on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Police believe Fisher may have walked into the road in front of the vehicle.

Chico State’s thoughts and prayers are with Fisher’s family and friends, said Joe Wills, director of public affairs and publications. The administration is concerned about Fisher and hopes he recovers from his injuries.

Fisher works at Outback Steakhouse and is expected to graduate in the spring, according to his Facebook brandon fisher The Chico State page. student who was Anyone who may have hit by a car is witnessed the collision is seen here in this 2009 student ID encouraged to contact Chico photo. police officer Travis Johnsen at 530-895-4911.

Pedro Quintana can be reached at pquintana@theorion.com

additional copies 50¢

ALCOHOL STATS IN CHICO

342

Source: 2011 AlcoholEdu executive summary Deborah Stewart, Chico State Student Health Center Director

Marijuana

Alcohol use

use is above national average

is above

national average

Bars offer low-cost drink specials

1,344

41% 37%

take shots

students indicated being interested in planning these events and activities

77%

drink off campus

students are interested in attending alcohol-free activities

pregame

9%

drink in outdoor setting

the orion •INFOGRAPHIC BY Jenna Fujitsubo

Allison Weeks Staff Writer

Two Chico State health researchers have found that 35 percent of Chico State freshmen reported binge drinking within two weeks of orientation, which is higher than the national average of 22 percent.

Dr. Deborah Stewart, director of Student Health Service, and Trisha Seastrom, the Campus Alcohol and Drug Education Center program manager, are working on a preliminary recommendation plan to address alcohol and other substance abuse issues at Chico State, Stewart said.

“We’ve been working day and night,” she said. “This is really important to us.”

The recommendation plan is an opportunity to help, Seastrom said.

“If we work to help students have options, we work to change social norms,” she said.

The plans include having AlcoholEdu coordinated with other effective preventative education programming.

AlcoholEdu does not work by itself, Seastrom said.

Chico State is an isoDeborah lated, small residential Stewart campus with a history of Director of alcohol problems, which Student Health contributes to the curService rent drinking culture, Seastrom said. Bars that offer low-cost drink specials can encourage excessive drinking, and she thinks they

Safety

should be banned.

Other schools, such as University of Iowa, have worked with city officials to implement ordinances banning low-cost drink specials, and those laws have been effective in preventing abuse.

Chico State should also provide substance-free housing like that at Cal State Monterey Bay, Seastrom said. Students who live a substance-free lifestyle sign an agreement saying they do so in order to live in this type of residence.

Stewart and Seastrom plan to have a finalized draft of their findings by next week.

After Stewart’s 21-year-old nephew Ryan died from substance abuse 10 years ago, she made a promise to herself. >> please see Booze | A4

Suspension

University launches investigations of 9 Greek organizations Greek activities was based on the accumulation of events that have occurred over the More than one-third of the past academic year, Zingg social Greek organizations on said. campus are being investigated The university will evaluby the university for sexual ate the conduct of each chapter assaults, hazing, assaults and against the guidelines set forth violations of alcohol policy and in their charters to determine of the recently instated Greek reinstatement, Calandrella suspension. said. AccordNine of the ing to “We’re gonna start 26 universityCalandrella, right away examining the re-evalurecognized the truth of charters.” ation process organizations are under will look into: Paul Zingg investigation, • Incidents Chico State President wrote Drew that have been Calandrella, vice president for brought to light in the student affairs in an email to past several years The Orion.

• What remedies have been Of the nine, eight are fraestablished ternities and one is a sorority, • The recruitment processes Greek life coordinator Malcolm • Academic performance of McLemore said. individual members and the Chico State President Paul organization as a whole Zingg suspended the Greek • The community service system Nov. 15 following the provided death of Chico State student • Leadership development and Sigma Pi pledge Mason The organizations will also Sumnicht. face changes in university polSumnicht, a senior commu- icy if they return for the spring nication design major, died of semester, he said. a suspected alcohol overdose, Greek behavior changed according to the Butte County between six and nine months Coroner’s Office. ago, causing numerous policy The administration is also violations, Zingg said. looking into whether a frater“We’re gonna start right nity was involved in the events away examining the truth of that led to Sumnicht’s hos- charters,” he said. pitalization and subsequent death, Calandrella said.

Quinn Western can be reached at The decision to suspend qwestern@theorion.com Quinn Western Asst. Ne ws Editor

the orion • illustrative PHOTOgRAPH BY Brett edwards

Prowl The Chico Police Department and University Police are investigating separate incidences of sexual assault.

In September, police reported an investigation of a yearlong string of sexual assaults in areas surrounding campus.

Police searching for bicycle groper, looking into earlier sexual assaults Katrina Cameron Staff Writer

Police continue to investigate the rising number of sexual assaults against college-aged women near and on campus.

Chico police distributed a press release in September alerting the community about a series of linked assaults that occurred from August 2011 through Sept. 22, 2012. Most happened in the south-campus area.

“Each of those assaults had some sort of a thread that tied them together,” Chico police Sgt. Scott

Franssen said. “Some threads were looser than others.”

The number of sexual assaults in the Chico community continues to rise, but the most recent ones do not appear to be connected to those reported earlier this semester, Franssen said.

“How can a woman feel safe walking at night when she gets an email saying that 10 to 12 women have been assaulted?” said Sarah Sullivan, program coordinator for the Associated Students Gender and Sexuality Equity Center.

INDEX

On Campus The most recent attacks occurred on campus Thursday, when two Chico State students reported being touched on the buttock by an unidentified man riding a bike.

The students contacted police at 7:45 a.m. and 7:55 a.m. Thursday morning, University Police Chief Robyn Hearne wrote in an email to The Orion. The sexual assaults were reported on the west side of Ayres Hall and the north side of Modoc Hall.

University Police alerted the campus community to the incidences in >> please see ASSAULTS | A5

INSIDE

World News

A2

Sports

B1

Weather

A2

Directory

B3

Police Blotter

A4

Features

B5

Opinion

A6

Sex Column

B6

Sports

TODAY

84 54

high

Check out the recap of the weekend’s basketball games.

low

Story B3

full week A2 >>

Features Get crafty to take care of everyone on your holiday gift list without spending big bucks.

Column B7

Opinion What would Chico be like without Chico State?

Column A6

A2 |

WORLD

WEATHER >> Today | am showers

Thursday | mostly sunny

48 34

As of Tuesday, London police have still been unable to identify the man who fell from the sky in early September. His body was contorted on a sidewalk and was suspected to have fallen from a jet lowering its landing gear in its descent.

Source: The Huffington Post

India signed a nuclear safety pact with Ukraine Monday along with five other agreements ranging from science to commercial matters.

Source: New York Daily News

NATION

Two men were found dead at an alleged home-based pot farm on the day marijuana became legal in Washington.

The men are believed to be robbers and were allegedly shot by the homeowner.

Source: The Los Angeles Times

Source: The Washington Post

CALIFORNIA

Saturday | mostly cloudy

49 36

51 39

Shasta College football player keeps battling received a call from a nurse informing him his son was in Staff Writer surgery.

A Shasta College student “Tyler was fighting for his is fighting his way to recov- life,” he said. ery after his skull Two blood clots was fractured during were removed from Halloween weekend his brain, and part of in Chico. his skull was taken Tyler Burton, 21, out to make way for a was in town to celecatheter that removed brate Halloween with cerebral fluid from a group of friends the brain, Roger Burover the weekend ton said. preceding the holi- Tyler Burton Four days after the day, said Christina The Shasta Colincident, Tyler Burton student is Van Delden, a family lege suffered a stroke that recovering from friend. damaged his nervous an injury he sufHe was punched in fered Halloween system and caused weekend. the head and fell to a loss of movement the ground on West in the left side of his Eighth Street, causbody. ing a skull fracture that was Burton has since been treated at Enloe Medical Cen- moved to a facility in Oregon ter, according to a Chico Police where he has been in therapy Department press release. to help regain his movement, Minutes later, police arrested Van Delden said.

Andres Rodriguez, 20, of Cit“It’s a process that will take rus Heights, on suspicion a long time,” Burton said. of assault with great bodily “Tyler is seeing three therainjury. pists on a daily basis to help If convicted, Rodriguez him with his speech and physcould face up to four years ical movement.” in jail, Butte County district Tyler Burton had received a attorney Michael Ramsey football scholarship to Shasta said.

College and had hopes of Tyler’s father, Roger Burton, transferring to Chico State in

Sunday | showers

Nov. 1

Burton suffered a stroke and lost movement on the left side of his body.

Chico State President Paul Zingg visited The Orion staff and fielded questions from reporters Dec. 5. Here are Zingg’s thoughts on a wide variety of issues, including alcohol abuse at Chico State, the proposed Chico Compact for Student Success, the string of sexual assaults reported in the south-campus area and his decision to suspend the Greek system.

Dec. 6

Burton was transferred to Vibra Hospital in Redding to receive physical and speech therapy.

Zingg: More than one-third of our students arriving here are predisposed to binge drinking, which begs a whole bunch of questions. In particular, are they coming to Chico State because they think this is a place where they can continue to engage in binge drinking? Are they coming to Chico State because they think the conditions here support that? Alcohol is cheap in Chico, and it’s plentiful.

Jan. 28

Andres Rodriguez will face jury trial for battery charges with serious bodily injuries.

If convicted, Rodriguez could face four years behind bars.

SOURCE • Roger Burton and District Attorney Michael Ramsey

the future, Roger Burton said.

But this struggle is the greatest one he has had to endure.

“He knows this is the biggest game of his life,” Burton said. “No slacking off, no giving up.”

Since recovering from his head injury, Tyler and his father have bonded with >> please see THERAPY | A4

CSU requests 3 percent pay increase for faculty statewide

$86 million The additional amount the CSU would allocate toward faculty salaries if the proposed budget is accepted.

The number of years CSU faculty have gone without a pay increase.

SOURCE •Calstate.edu

of the CSU budget, Chico State President Paul Zingg said in a conference with The Orion.

After six years of frozen sala- Now the state only provides ries, California State University about 45 percent of the sysemployees could receive a pay tem’s budget. raise pending the approval of If Gov. Jerry Brown and the the state budget.

California Legislature approve The CSU the budget, it board of will result in trustees sent the first faculty “We’re trying to a request pay raise since remain optimistic to the state July 2007. that the governor will Legislature The Caliapprove it.” asking for fornia Faculty $372 million Association, infundingfor the largest Brian Ferguson the system’s union repreCFA representative 2013-2014 senting faculty budget. and staff of the The request asks for a CSU, encouraged the budget pay increase for employees proposal, said Brian Ferguson, and additional funding for a representative for the CFA. enrollment growth and the “The CSU management did maintenance of university the right thing asking for the facilities, according to a CSU 3 percent increase,” he said. press release.

“It’s an ambitious request, and The budget could increase if passed it will make up the salaries of CSU faculty, staff inequities for faculty over the and management by 3 percent, past few years.” or a total of about $86 milWith the passage of Proposilion, said Stephanie Thara, a tion 30, the state is in a better spokeswoman for the CSU. place to provide for state-supThe 2010, 2011 and 2012 sup- ported organizations, Ferguson port budgets each asked for a 3 said. percent compensation pool as “We’re trying to remain optiwell, but were all declined by mistic that the governor will the governor and Legislature, approve it,” he said.

Thara said.

Twelve years ago, state fund- Aubrey Crosby can be reached at ing made up about 82 percent acrosby@theorion.com Staff Writer

51 42

Zingg fields queries from Orion staff

Oct. 28

Aubrey Crosby

Tuesday | showers

53 42

POLITICS

The amount the California State University system is requesting from the state for its 2013-2014 budget.

Monday | mostly sunny

52 35

Shasta College student Tyler Burton’s skull was fractured after being struck Halloween weekend.

Pedro Quintana

6 A Clovis East High School science teacher was arrested on suspicion of having sex with a minor.

The student is now 18 but was a minor when the supposed incidents occurred in a private residence.

Friday | showers

51 38

$372 million George Zimmerman filed a defamation suit against NBC for portraying him as a racist in the 911 clip they edited and released to the public.

news all week @ theorion.com

NEWS

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

The Orion: In the beginning of the semester, we found out that the Taylor Hall bond sale was held up until the spring. Right now, what’s the current status of Taylor Hall?

Zingg: We’re pretty optimistic that, particularly with the improvement of the bond rating of the state, that this will be up for public referendum in March or April.

The Orion: What is the campus doing in response to Chico State’s the increase in sexual assaults president visited around the south campus The Orion staff to neighborhoods? answer questions and discuss Zingg: We do a lot of things. recent events on I think you know Safe Start, campus. He discussed the recent Safe Place, Campus ConGreek system nection and the mandatory suspension and orientation to these issues that sexual assaults near campus. all incoming students take.

How effective, for example, those AlcoholEdu might be? I think it’s a joke, to tell you the truth. No, don’t quote me on that. I can’t say that. I don’t think it’s taken as seriously as it could be, or as it should be. It’s an online test, and I’m really not sure what it accomplishes. I think there are great motives behind it, but we’ve got to come up with stronger ways in which to talk about issues including the sexual assault issue.

Assaults and, in particular, sexual assaults, are part of the reason why I took the step that I did with the Greek organizations. There are investigations of such with the Greeks as there are such across the campus. But we’ve got very good faculty and very good staff that understand these issues, and I think we’ve got to pay more attention to what their research tells us and what their expertise tells us.

Paul Zingg

The Orion: What changes are you thinking of making to the Greek system?

Zingg: At this point we’re relying upon Drew Calandrella and the Greek advisers – Connie Huyck, CC Carter, Malcolm McLemore – to really tackle that question and to do that in consultation with the Greeks. But I mean, my bottom line is live up to your charters. And what can we do in order to encourage that behavior?

The Orion: We wanted to ask about the student success website. There are some figures on the proposed areas where the money could be spent on the PDF that’s up there. But I understand you’re still soliciting feedback from students. So why are those figures up there?

Zingg: Well, on one hand, I think this is appropriate. Students want a lot more specificity. But I’ve told the folks who are managing this effort that more is better. Put as much specificity out there as you can, because students need something to react to. And if all you do is throw out a big category, “supporting academic success” – great. Who’s all for that? But what does it mean?

The Orion can be reached at editorinchief@theorion.com

Source: The Fresno Bee

| College of Communication & Education | California State University, Chico | Chico, Ca 95929-0600 CONTACT | EDITORIAL Phone: 530.898.5627 Email: editorinchief@theorion.com

A naked 21-year-old man was arrested Sunday morning in Red Bluff on suspicion of peeping and exposure. Dallin Edward Foster allegedly peeked into a bedroom while naked.

Source: The Red Bluff Daily News

CONTACT | BUSINESS Phone: 530.898.4237 Email: advertising@theorion.com

Editor-in-Chief Kacey Gardner

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Managing Editor Jenna Valdespino

Opinion Editor Isaac Brambila

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Art Director Lindsay Smith

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Chief Copy Editor Dan Reidel

Features Editor Juniper Rose

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Multimedia Manager Samantha Youngman

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Advisers Mark Plenke, Lewis Brockus

Copy Editors Emily Gonzales Miguel Rocha Leila Rodriguez Chantal Richards

Business Manager Kelsy Jehle Phone: 530.898.4237 Asst. Business Manager Lauren Swedenborg Phone: 530.898.6973 Account Executives Michael Kenny Phone: 530.898.6919

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Website

Fax

www.theorion.com

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NEWS

news all week @ theorion.com

Suspension

| A3

politics

Safe Rides benefit canceled following Greek shutdown Nov. 15, the IFC had not voted on the amount it planned to donate, wrote Staff Writer Connie Huyck, program coordinator of The suspension of all university-rec- student life and leadership, in an email ognized Greek organizations at Chico to The Orion.

State has postponed potential philan“It is my understanding that the cost thropy efforts that for Safe Rides would be would have ben$17,000,” Huyck wrote. efited a nighttime But even if the IFC safety program. had been able raise the Chico State’s Interfunds for the program, fraternity Council, the council would not an organization be able to donate the composed of repentire $17,000, Farnady The cost of running Safe resentatives from wrote.

Rides each night. The university-affili“To be honest, bringprogram, which provides ated fraternities, ing back a Safe Rides free transportation between had been planning program will take more the hours of 11 p.m. and 2 to adopt Chico Safe than a fundraiser,” she a.m., was Rides as philanwrote. “It would require canceled last fall. thropy, wrote Krista monetary contributions Farnady, Associated from university, A.S. Students commisand other programs. I sioner of community am currently looking affairs, in an email into those different vento The Orion.

The estimated cost per ues to find funding.”

“This would have year of resuming Safe The Greeks’ current been their first Rides. A.S. estimates inability to fundraise year donating to that bringing the program should not affect Chico that cause,” wrote back would require State’s record as a uniFarnady, a junior contributions from versity for students who exercise physiology A.S. and the university. are actively involved in student. the community, Chico SOURCE • Krista Farnady, A.S. Safe Rides was State President Zingg commissioner of Community Affairs designed by A.S. in wrote in an email to 1990 to ensure stuThe Orion. dents had a free and “There are plenty of safe ride home from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. on students committed to such service Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. besides members of the Greek organiThe transportation program was dis- zations,” Zingg wrote. “Their service continued in fall 2011 because it was is welcome, but its lack does not hold not utilized enough to invest the funds back the University’s record in these required to keep it running, Farnady regards.” said in a previous interview with The Chico State has logged more than Orion.

160,000 hours of community service It costs about $175 to run the pro- this year, Zingg said. gram each night.

When President Paul Zingg Katrina Cameron can be reached at announced the Greek suspension kcameron@theorion.com

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

Katrina Cameron

BY THE NUMBERS

$175

$17,000

1990

A.S. launches Safe Rides to ensure students have protected transportation between the hours of 11 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Fall 2011

The Safe Rides program collapses due to lack of funding and dwindling student use.

Fall 2012

Associated Students attempts to revitalize the program amid reports of sexual assaults in the southcampus area.

SOURCEs• Shauna Quinn, Director of CADEC Krista Farnady, A.S. Commissioner of Community Affairs

the orion •PHOTOgRAPH BY Alexandrea Archuleta

Solemnly Swear Sean Morgan, Ann Schwab, Randall Stone and Tami Ritter take the oath of office as they begin their terms as Chico city councilors. Schwab is a returning council member.

Newly elected City Council members begin office terms “There is a lot of work ahead of you,” he said.

Walker thanked his felThe Chico City Council said low peers for their work. He goodbye to outgoing council- wasn’t happy to leave but ors, embraced a new board of said it was the right time for fresh faces and voted Mary him to go.

Goloff as mayor at a meeting “There’s a lot of unfinished Tuesday. business, but it’s exactly how Former Mayor Ann Schwab democracy’s supposed to recognized parting col- work,” Walker said. leagues Jim Walker, Bob Being on the Council Evans and Andy Holcombe during the recession was for their deddifficult, he ication and said. But the service to the city wrestled “In these last two city. problems years, we have formed the “In these that came a close team.” last two along. years, we Walker Ann Schwab have formed named City Council member a close team,” achieveSchwab said. ments that Evans has been a leader helped Chico grow. These in analyzing the city’s bud- included improving roads, get polices and helping with protecting groundwater and the selection of the new city air quality and improving manager. He was appointed Bidwell Park’s Sycamore Pool to the Council in 2010 and with the installation of new came in seventh place in restrooms for visitors near the recent election, losing his the swimming area. spot by a slim margin.

Holcombe was honored for Evans thanked Chico res- his achievements as a counidents for their support cilman, including working over his past two years in with the homeless task force office, but cautioned the and his strong support for the new Council.

Stonewall Alliance during Pedro Quintana Staff Writer

his eight-year tenure.

After the former council members bid their farewells, the city clerk called the new members to the floor. Tami Ritter, Randall Stone and Sean Morgan were sworn into office.

Ann Schwab, who received the highest number of votes during the election, was sworn in for another term.

Stone is ready to tackle the growing problem of pension reform on public safety in Chico and to work on attracting developers to the town, he said.

Unanimous votes in the new Council’s first order of business selected Goloff as mayor and Scott Gruendl as vice mayor.

Schwab is excited to work with the Council and offer advice, she said.

She encouraged Goloff to pick areas in order to build a legacy and to treasure every moment of her time in office as mayor.

“This is a very unique and precious gift to have the bully pulpit,” Schwab said.

Pedro Quintana can be reached at pquintana@theorion.com

Success fee

University unveils proposed spending plan on website Laura Hass Staff Writer

Students got their first glimpse at how money from the proposed Chico Compact for Student Success could be spent when a university website went live Dec. 3.

The website includes a 48-slide presentation that describes how an estimated $14 million raised over three years from the new student fee could be spent, and includes possible spending on academic success, enhanced technology, learning resources and career and life success programs.

“Students want a lot more specificity,”

said Chico State President Paul Zingg, Students should have a voice in decidwho proposed the fee ing where the fee money is Sept. 24 at an Associspent, Chico State student ated Students board Gordie Mann said.

“If I had to pay this of directors meeting.

“I think it would be fee, I’d hope it would “More is better. Put pretty cool for the students somehow make the as much specificity as to be able to vote on what much as you can. Stuspecific things the fees pay classes not so large.” dents need something for, so that we can have to react to.” more say in what the money Declining state supwe are paying is going to,” Natalie Miller liberal studies major port over the years has Mann said. led the 23 campuses Other CSUs like San Jose in the California State University system State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal State to rely more on student fees, according to L.A. and Cal State East Bay have implethe website. mented their own student success fees.

Under the current proposal, students could pay $150 in the 2013 to 2014 academic year. Each year, the fee will increase by $150 until it costs $450 annually.

The fee is expected to raise between $2,092,500 and $2,325,000 from 2012 to 2014, assuming 15,500 students are enrolled at Chico State during that time.

“If I had to pay this fee, I’d hope it would somehow make the classes not so large,” said Natalie Miller, a liberal studies major.

Laura Hass can be reached at lhass@theorion.con

Chico celebrates holiday spirit with tree lighting in downtown City Plaza town.”

The event included pre-show entertainStaff Writer ment by Chico holiday band The Yule Logs, Excited Chico citizens, students, children the Children’s Choir of Chico and the Sounds and parents crowded the chilly downtown of the Valley Chorus, as well as a speech by sidewalks awaiting Santa Claus’ arrival to the new Mayor Mary Goloff, who recited Robert Chico Community Tree Lighting Friday night. Frost’s poem, “Stopping by the Woods on a Santa skipped his sleigh this Snowy Evening.” year, opting to arrive in a clasThe Children’s Choir of Chico sic 1948 American LaFrance sang and used sign language “I love Chico. firetruck. while performing Christmas Things like this Hundreds of members of the carols like “Silent Night.” make it a cute Chico community attended the The Sounds of the Valley tree lighting, which was hosted Chorus, an all-women group, town.” by the Downtown Chico Business performed “Here Comes Santa Association.

Claus” and “Santa Claus is Meghan Sims The event was absolutely magComing to Town.”

Junior communication and ical, said Judy Alley,a KHSL-TV “My favorite part was when sciences disorders major Channel 12 news anchor who the group of little kids signed spoke at the event.

‘Silent Night,’” Sims said.

It was an honor to be a part of a Chico tradiGoloff’s appearance included her first time tion, she said. addressing the Chico community at a large The decorated 55-foot Blue Atlas Cedar tree event as mayor. at City Plaza was lit for the crowd shortly “I liked meeting the mayor for the first after Santa’s arrival about 7 p.m. Attend- time,” said Rachel Trine, a Chico State senior ees applauded in excitement as the tree was recreation administration major. illuminated with 8,000 individual lights on The tree will be lit at night and on display display. throughout the holiday season.

“I love Chico,” said Meghan Sims, a junior communication and sciences disorders major Katrina Cameron can be reached at at Chico State. “Things like this make it a cute kcameron@theorion.com Katrina Cameron

the orion •PHOTO courtesy Jordan Gore

night light Many came out to see the annual Chico Community Tree Lighting ceremony Friday night in City Plaza. The 55-foot Blue Atlas Cedar was decorated and lit for the crowd shortly after Santa Claus arrived in a firetruck about 7 p.m.

A4 |

POLICE BLOTTER Information cited directly from Chico Police Department or University Police Department.

University Police Tuesday, 8:24 p.m.: Transient problem reported in parking structure.

“Male subject and dog staying inside elevator, continue to ride up and down.”

Thursday, 12:49 a.m.: Medical aid requested in Whitney Hall, second floor men’s bathroom. “Resident adviser found male subject laying on floor, breathing but unresponsive.

Unknown if has been drinking.”

Thursday, 11:18 a.m.: Sexual battery reported near Ayres Hall. “Reporting party reports while walking to Ayres a white male, blond hair, dark jacket on a green bike rode past and fondled her.

Second victim reports at 7:55 this date, same male grabbed her while en route to Modoc Hall.”

Thursday, 1:04 p.m.: Possession of stolen property reported in Butte Hall.

“Stolen laptop indicating location in Butte. Laptop surrendered by possessor.”

Thursday, 3:25 p.m.: Report of threats made in Whitney Hall. “Reporting party met a male online last summer from out of town. They exchanged numbers but never met in person. He is texting and threatening to find her and harm her.”

Friday, 3:40 p.m.: Petty theft reported in Performing Arts Center green room.

“Reporting party set her phone down and it was taken while she was making a purchase from a vending machine.”

Saturday, 1:33 a.m.: Refusal to leave reported in Whitney Hall. “Nonresident male refusing to leave. Ran past resident adviser and currently standing by with his friend. Advised male running down northeast stairwell and fire escape.”

Sunday, 2:41 p.m.: Disturbance reported in Butte Hall second floor.

“Subjects wearing red shirts running up and down hallway playing capture the flag and bothering students who are trying to study. Group moved.”

Sunday, 6:56 p.m. Suspicious subject reported near Mechoopda and Esken halls. “Male has been drinking, standing in dark, approaching females as they pass by. Tries to talk to them.”

news all week @ theorion.com

NEWS

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

Chico Police Friday, 9:29 a.m.: Drunk in public reported on 1900 block of the Esplanade. “Subject was stumbling around the patio. Reporting party noticed vomit all over the subject, who has now walked into traffic on the Esplanade.”

Friday, 11:16 a.m: Harassment reported on 300 block of East Lindo Avenue.

“Ongoing problem with three neighbors that she believes are harassing her.

This morning when she arrived to her apartment, she found cardboard trash and broken plastic in her assigned parking spot. Reporting party is requesting personal contact.”

Friday, 12:29 p.m.: Resisting a peace officer reported on 1200 block of Park Avenue. Reporting party requesting check on subject who was recently released from employment from the Torres Community Shelter. Reporting party just spoke with his store manager who said subject had been in the store and was trembling because he was so upset. Subject had said something about having some rope in his car to hang himself and also that a friend had left a gun in the vehicle as well.”

Saturday, 10:06 p.m.: Noise complaint on 1600 block of Normal Avenue. “Very loud party with yelling and drunk subjects in front yard. Reporting party not sure of exact address. Reporting party attempted contact, and the group became hostile and made threats.”

Sunday, 1:45 a.m: Drunk in public reported on 100 block of Benson Terrace. “Subject at door trying to force entry. No knocking, no voices. Reporting party home alone. Reporting party in her bedroom, which is right near the front door. Subject still present, trying the door again, subject on the front porch.”

Sunday, 2:26 a.m: Suspicious subject reported on 100 block of Oak Street.

“Three subjects walking down Oak Street checking vehicle handles.

Three white male adults, collegeaged. Group is now entering parking lot near Rosedale School. Two-story apartment complex next to dance center. Reporting party was following at a distance but lost sight.”

-compiled by Laura Hass and Marisela Pulido

BOOZE: President planning summit continued from A1

“I would do everything I could as a pediatrician and a professional not to have anyone suffer the way our family did and Mason’s did,” Stewart said, referring to the death of 21-yearold Chico State student Mason Sumnicht.

Sumnicht died Nov. 15 after being rushed to the hospital for alcohol poisoning on his 21st birthday. He is one of four students who have died in Chico this semester from alcohol-related incidents.

Stewart’s promise inspired her to come to Chico State as medical director of Student Health Services.

Seastrom has also been personally touched by the effects of substance abuse and addiction.

Her brother died at 40 due to acute alcoholism,

33 Percent of Chico State students who are high-risk drinkers. The national average is 24 percent.

and her cousin lost the use of his left arm from an alcohol-related incident at Chico State.

Chico State plans to hold a summit to discuss alcohol abuse, but the exact date is still unknown, Chico State President Paul Zingg wrote in an email to The Orion.

The goals of the summit will be to meet with university and community members in order to understand the alcohol issues Chico faces, then develop strategies to solve the problem, he wrote.

“Understanding, though, is the critical first step to action and I expect that will be a principal focus of this event,” Zingg said.

Allison Weeks can be reached at aweeks@theorion.com

17 Percent of Chico State students who are light or moderate drinkers.

The national average is 14 percent.

50 Percent of Chico State students who are non-drinkers. The national average is 62 percent.

SOURCE • AlcoholEDU 2011 executive summary

THERAPY: Father is grateful for community support for his son continued from A2

great memories and their “Husky Handshake” that Burton taught his son when he took him to University of Washington football games as a child.

Van Delden created a Facebook page, “Praying for Tyler Burton,” which has attracted more than 12,000 “likes.” Roger Burton has been active on the page, giving updates on his son’s recovery.

Van Delden and a friend held a fundraiser last weekend in Redding at Dutch Bros. Coffee and raised more than $3,000 for necessities like a wheelchair to help Tyler Burton during

his recovery.

“The goal is give Tyler the best quality of life during his therapy,” she said.

Roger Burton is grateful for all the support he has received from the community and hopes to take his son back to Vancouver, Wash. for rehabilitation in the coming months.

For more information on Tyler Burton’s status and recovery, visit the “Praying for Tyler Burton” Facebook page.

Pedro Quintana can be reached at pquintana@theorion.com

NEWS

news all week @ theorion.com

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

| A5

Hmong general honored with new statue Ben Mullin News Editor

Chico’s Hmong community celebrated the unveiling of a statue of cultural leader Gen. Vang Pao Saturday near City Plaza.

Pao is known for having led an army against the People’s Army of Vietnam.

The dedication was inspiring for senior business information systems major Pheng Yang, who met Pao when he was in high school eight years ago.

Yang shared a shot of apple cider with the former general, who gave a speech about the importance of celebrating and preserving Hmong culture.

“Every time he spoke, the whole crowd listened in awe,” he said.

Pao inspired the Hmong community, and kept them together in difficult times, Yang said.

“It felt very inspiring to remember someone who put their heart and soul into their community to

make it better,” he said.

Butte County Supervisor Larry Wahl, who was a Navy pilot during the Vietnam War, strongly supported installing the statue of Pao near the Chico City Council Chambers because Pao represents

“It felt very inspiring to remember someone who put their heart and soul into their community to make it better.”

Pheng Yang senior buisness information systems major

a positive and historical figure for the Hmong community, he said.

“He was perhaps the strongest ally for our forces in Southeast Asia in the struggle for freedom in Vietnam and Laos,” Wahl said.

Pao helped rescue many

$40,000 The cost of the statue, which memorializes Vang Pao, a Hmong cultural leader. The statue was financed entirely by private donors, who could get their names engraved on the statue for contributing more than $3,000.

American pilots from enemy captivity at considerable risk to himself and his troops, Wahl said.

“So for that I am indebted to him and we as a country are indebted to him for his support to us in our quest for freedom for all people,” he said.

The Butte County Hmong Association requested space from the city and raised the funds for the statue, Wahl said.

After retiring from the Chico City Council, Wahl spoke to the council as a citizen in favor of the statue.

The granite statue cost about $40,000, according to a website dedicated to raising funds for it.

Pao’s son spoke at the dedication and reminded the crowd to keep his father’s memory alive, Yang said.

“One message that I got from his speech was remember his father’s words,” he said.

Ben Mullin can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com

82 Pao died at this age on Jan. 6, 2011. The statue dedication was held on Saturday to celebrate what would have been the general’s 83rd birthday.

the orion •PHOTOgRAPH BY Kacey Gardner

SOURCEs • Pheng yang, senior business information major gvpmonumentchico.com

in memorium Hmong Gen. Vang Pao was honored with a statue near the Chico City Council Chambers downtown Saturday. The statue, paid for by private donations, cost about $40,000 to create and is made from granite.

ASSAULTS: Sexual offenders frequently target acquaintences continued from A1

an email Friday.

Officers have no leads, but have checked the areas where the assaults occurred, University Police Sgt. Bryce Davison said.

“We’re doing everything possible to try and locate the suspect and welcome any additional information that will assist us,” he said.

Sexual assaults don’t occur on campus very often, and officials are taking these reports seriously, Davison said.

The suspect was described as an 18- to 25-year-old man with near shoulder-length blond hair, Hearne said. He was cleanshaven, wearing a green hat and riding a bicycle with a rack over the back tire.

These two recent incidents seem different than the string of attacks that occurred in the community, Davison said. University Police does not believe the recent and past assaults are related.

The school is also investigating Chico State’s Greek community for possible sexual assaults, Chico State President Paul Zingg said.

“Assaults and, in particular, sexual assaults, are part of the reason why I took the step that I did with the Greek organizations,” Zingg said. “There are investigations of such with the Greeks as there are such across the campus.”

In the Community The investigation of the connected sexual assaults that occurred between August 2011 and September 2012 is ongoing.

“There is no information right now that we are going to release,” Franssen said. “It is still an active investigation.”

No suspects have been identified, he said. Extra patrols have been on the lookout for the attackers.

Each of the attacks shared some similarities. Four involved reports of black cars, and in two of the instances, the suspects identified themselves as police officers.

All of the women attacked were alone, either walking home or waiting for someone, and most of them were intoxicated at the

time.

“It’s unfortunate because a woman should be able to walk around at night and feel safe, but unfortunately we are not there as a society yet,” said Sarah Sullivan, program coordinator for the Gender and Sexuality Equity Center.

However, the two recent oncampus assaults don’t appear to be connected to the previous cases, Franssen said.

“The number of sexual assaults on college-aged women has always been high,” said Rocky Cruz, assistant executive and program director for Rape Crisis Intervention and Prevention, which provides 24-hour

August 2011

The first in a string of sexual assaults is reported. A woman reported being pepper sprayed and sexually assaulted while walking home near the railroad tracks on West Sacramento Avenue.

counseling to survivors of sexual assault.

Police see a variety of circumstances for attacks that have occurred.

“We have these types of stranger kidnapping incidences, but we’ve also had acquaintance rapes that have happened since then,” Franssen said.

Acquaintance rapes Chico police have recently seen more sexual assaults reported by people who knew their attacker, Franssen said. Sometimes it’s someone they just met that night at a party.

“Stranger danger” only accounts for a small percentage

September

Chico police report a series of 10 sexual assaults that occurred over a year. Most of the survivors are reported as being college-aged women who were intoxicated at the time.

of attacks, Cruz said. The highest percentage of assaults are made by someone the person knows.

“It’s really friends raping friends,” he said.

These incidents are harder to prove because it becomes a game of “he said, she said,” Cruz said.

The important thing is that society doesn’t blame the victim, he said.

“It is never the victim’s fault, but we really want them to keep in mind that it’s up them to be aware of their own safety,” Franssen said. “They can’t rely on someone else to take care of them.”

Katrina Cameron can be reached at kcameron@theorion.com

Dec. 6

Two female students report being groped on the buttock by a male riding a bike. The suspect is described as an 18 to 25-year-old man with near shoulder-length blond hair and a green hat.

SOURCE • Chico Police Department University Police Department

I am a hunter of truth,

BUT IAM NOTALONE. It takes a team.

Our hunt is now a daily one

Visit theorion.com and follow us @theorion_news

opinions all week at theorion.com

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12, 2012

Chico State’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1975

editorial

Hello, goodbye from The Orion’s spring, fall managers

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We’ve almost reached the end.

It’s unlikely that Dec. 21 will mark the demise of life as we know it; however, it does mark the end of the semester.

But as much as the coming week is about endings, it is also about beginnings.

For some it’s just the start of another break from school.

For those graduating, it’s the beginning of their entire post-college life.

And for The Orion, it’s when the reins of leadership are passed off to a whole new set of managers.

This paper is the last product of the fall 2012 editorial board. Next week’s issue will be the first of 16 for the spring team.

It’s been a semester of big news at Chico State, and we hope that our coverage of the triumphs and tragedies, small and great, has been of some value to our readers. It’s been an honor to serve this community by doing the work we love.

And while it’s a bittersweet time for those of us who are leaving, we are excited to get to sit back and watch the group of hard-working and talented journalists taking the helm.

So without further ado, we’d like to introduce, The Orion’s spring 2013 editorial board.

Follow them on Twitter to get to know them, or drop them a line over break to let them know how they can improve upon the work done this semester.

Editor-in-Chief: Jenna Valdespino (@jenvald) Managing Editor: Ben Mullin (@benmullin)

Chico State image drenched in bitter beer

News Editor: Quinn Western (@quinnwestern) Opinion Editor: Carly Caumiant (@carlyyy_sarah)

unfortunately, the most common reason may be to party.

Before I ever visited Butte County, my brow raised when my cousin told me she would be fleeing to the north state.

Disappointment sat in my gut, because I felt that her innocence would soon be dripping in booze.

During a short visit to Chico with my cousin, I unexpectedly fell in love with the trees, creeks and brick walls that encompass the city. When I toured the campus, my attraction to the scenery and the calming aura was instantaneous. I was hooked.

I have been defending my future alma mater for some time now, saying the party reputation could be due to the town’s small size or maybe the college party atmosphere is more noticeable in such tight quarters. Alas, I’ve been defeated.

With the multiple alcohol-

Carly Caumiant

Sports Editor: Trevor Platt (@trainwreckkcsc)

Opinion Columnist

Features Editor: Katrina Cameron (@katcameron91) Chief Copy Editor: Leila Rodriguez (@yourvintagelife) Online Editor: Dan Reidel (@dan_reidel) Art Director: Scott Ledbetter (@lolbetter) Photo Editor: Brett Edwards (photoeditor@theorion.com) Video Editor: Nicholas Kinoshita (videoeditor@theorion.com) If you would like to join next semester’s Orion staff, fill out an application on theorion.com under the “about us” tab and bring it down to the newsroom (Plumas Hall Room 001) or email editorinchief@theorion.com.

When I tell people I go to Chico State, I usually get a raised eyebrow or a bucket load of assumptions.

“You guys really know how to party,” is usually the response.

As a student who not only takes my education seriously, but also enjoys the beauty and wonder of Chico, I’m offended by such comments.

I didn’t come to Chico to party my brains out or to get wild with endless nights on the town. I came to Chico to have picnics in Bidwell Park and sip coffee at The Naked Lounge while the rain patters against the sidewalks of West Second Street.

There are many reasons why people flock to Chico, but

related deaths recently, I am at a loss. I can no longer deny Chico State is a party school, and a raging one at that.

It’s easy to get away with the infamous underage drinking experience in this college town.

I’m not a saint either. I was 18 once, and I understand the attraction to the party life.

Being away from home and in your own apartment or dorm with peers tantalizing your senses with illegal liquor can dizzy your mind with thirst.

It makes me sad, and almost angry, that the actions of my peers have fallen on me before I even begin my professional career. Having Chico State on my resume means I must work that much harder to prove I’m not the stereotypical Wildcat.

Those who have never visited Chico have never seen the streets filled with golden leaves during the fall or experienced

a night’s rainfall surrounded

by Christmas decor downtown. They’ve never taken a jog through Bidwell Park or bought handmade soaps from the Chico Farmers Market.

This city has a charm that just doesn’t hit the newspapers outside Butte County, and it’s a shame. Where is the section of my resume where I can include photos and stories of my college experience? Where are the people who actually ask me why I go to school in this small town instead of just assuming I’m here to party?

I hope to one day make it clear there are more reasons than one to live and breathe Chico State, but until then, I hope my peers understand their actions influence the reputations of the people who surround them.

Carly Caumiant can be reached at ccaumiant@theorion.com

the orion • ILLUSTRATION BY chelsea ross

Absolute truth drowned in noise of political clamoring

Dani Anguiano Opinion Columnist

In our country, it’s hard to know much about anything.

Major issues are politicized beyond the point of recognition. They are morphed into campaigning weapons in the eternal struggle between the left and right. Discussing an

issue no longer involves looking for a solution, but rather a debate whether Republicans or Democrats are right in the eyes of voters.

Whether the topic is same-sex marriage, hybrid cars or science, nothing is off limits to politicians.

It doesn’t matter if issues are straightforward or based on factual data, they can become so diluted by public officials that it’s hard to determine what the truth is.

When American culture politicizes every issue of controversy, it takes away our ability to understand an issue. No longer do we have facts but also the liberal and conservative perspective. Although these perspectives are appropriate for issues like taxes, economic policies and health care, they are all too often applied unnecessarily.

For instance, many politicians have expressed they do not believe humans have contributed to climate change. Global warming is presented in a way that is open to interpretation. Our view of the issue is skewed by the lens we see it through, whether Republican or Democrat.

We aren’t dealing with Santa Claus. Climate change is either real or it is not, and it’s an issue whether one believes in it or not. This creates much confusion and can contribute to the sentiment no one is really right.

Truth is not plural but singular, so despite a multitude of perspectives, the truth is much simpler than we tend to think of it.

Republican Sen. Jon Kyl of Arizona claimed, “If you want an abortion, you go to Planned Parenthood, and that’s well over 90 percent of what Planned Parenthood does.”

The actual number of abortion services provided by the women’s health advocacy group was only 3 percent as of 2009, according to Planned Parenthood’s website.

But Kyl explained his statements were not intended to be factual. Essentially, he lied and excused his lies by saying he wasn’t intending to be truthful, but trying to prove a point. Politicizing issues not only blurs the

truth, it creates an environment in which people cannot be held accountable.

When Rep. Todd Akin talked about the legitimacy of rape and victims’ rights to abortion, the Missouri Republican drew harsh criticism.

“First of all, from what I understand from doctors, that’s really rare,” he said. “If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down.”

That comment was the source of much controversy, and Akin ended up losing his Congressional seat.

Unfortunately, it was only one of many inappropriate comments regarding rape made during this year’s election season.

Republican vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan defended his sponsorship of a measure that used the term “forcible rape.”

Rape is just rape, and the very word implies force. Hopefully, due to the outrage surrounding this politicization, government leaders have learned not to make up words or false theories to suit a political agenda.

The constant politicization of issues is dangerous and contributes to the overall ignorance of Americans. When this is done unnecessarily, it creates an environment in which no one is wrong and truth is just a matter of political opinion.

While our world and the issues facing it are not merely black and white, but have many shades of gray, sometimes facts are just facts.

Features Editor Juniper Rose Photo Editor Frank Rebelo Multi. Manager Samantha Youngman

Art Director Lindsay Smith Online Editor Lauren Beaven

Dani Anguiano can be reached at danguiano@theorion.com

| EDITORIAL BOARD | FALL 2012 Editor-in-Chief Kacey Gardner Managing Editor Jenna Valdespino Chief Copy Editor Dan Reidel

News Editor Ben Mullin Opinion Editor Isaac Brambila Sports Editor Blake Mehigan

OPINION

opinions all week @ theorion.com

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

City of trees lacks character without Wildcat paw print Ian Scerri-Martin Opinion Columnist

Chico has a certain charm that retains the college-town feel no matter how long you are away. Much of that is because the city is home to one of California’s oldest public universities.

While in line at the grocery store recently, I overheard a couple of middle-aged men complaining about college students being disrespectful and spoiled. It’s something many of us are accustomed to hearing. For one reason or another, there are locals who don’t seem to like us.

As I discussed the ongoing locals vs. students conflict with my peers, one of them proposed a very intriguing question: What would the city be like without Chico State?

I’ve pondered the question, and where do I begin?

For starters, the university is Chico’s second-largest employer with more than 1,800 staff members, according to the Chico State website. Many of them are highly educated. I’m sure the city can do without them.

More than 16,000 students attend the

THUMBS Thumbs up to the women’s basketball team for extending its winning streak. The ’Cats are 6-0 to start the season.

school and stimulate the economy. Chico advertisements. probably doesn’t need them either.

None of the art and monuments left The colorful campus is possibly the behind by students would exist. The nicest area in the entire town. It’s hard Sacramento River would be deserted on to imagine Chico without it.

Labor Day weekend, and the neighborIt’s obvious the school brings a lot hoods would be quiet at night. Imagine of people, and their money, into the that. community.

Maybe downtown Without Chico State, would look more like Chico simply wouldn’t Oroville, or dare I say, Everywhere we look, be Chico.

Gridley. this town is covered Would the land the Everywhere we look, campus occupies be this town is covered in in our paw prints. covered with trees like our paw prints. Nothing Nothing has played a Lower Bidwell Park? Or has played a more intemore integral role in would it be a housing gral role in the history development? I always the history and culture and culture of Chico thought it would make a than this wonderful of Chico than this great golf course. school we are all priviwonderful school we Instead of working at leged to attend. are all privileged the university, maybe If you eat at a restauits staff members could rant in Chico, chances to attend. find jobs in a casino are a friendly student or the agriculture will serve you. business. What little We will never know diversity and culture Chico State brings exactly what Chico would be like withto the community would be a figment out Chico State, but we do know it of the imagination. The town would wouldn’t be the same town we know dissolve into the rest of the Northern and love.

California flatlands on a map.

Billboards for student housing Ian Scerri-Martin can be reached at would be replaced by farm equipment iscerri-martin@theorion.com

Disposable plastic freedom trumps hip environmental efforts

| A7

Thumbs down to assignments due during dead week. It’s not like we needed this time to study for finals or anything.

Thumbs up to Juan Manuel Marquez finally defeating Manny Pacquiao. One punch, lights out!

Thumbs down to finals ending right before the holidays. It doesn’t leave much time to indulge in the holiday spirit.

TALKING POINTS

Kevin Crittenden Opinion Coloumnist

I pity those who use Klean Kanteens. The disposable cup is a modern marvel stacked everywhere beverages are sold.

My favorite thing about disposable cups is they’re always new. The snug-fitting sippy lid is a joy to snap on, and I never have to wash a paper cup.

Sometimes I see propaganda that suggests reusable products like Klean Kanteens help “save the planet” by reducing the amount of waste that goes to landfills.

Some say our culture has negative consequences on the health of the planet, like the Earth has some kind of life force.

My forefathers did not oust the British for me to be forced into living responsibly. I refuse to tailor my freedoms to the whims of paranoid scientists and myths of an impending toxic environment.

I get to pursue happiness as I define it. Paper cups are convenient, and that makes me happy.

If there’s anything I have learned in college, it’s that if

The Orion • Photograph by Liam Turner

the orion • ILLUSTRATION BY Liz Coffee

I leave garbage alone for long enough, it disappears by itself.

A new plastic bag appears every few weeks – problem solved.

I don’t have time to be troubled with urban folklore about floating islands made of plastic debris in the Pacific Ocean.

If it’s not visible from satellite, then it must not exist.

That kind of thinking is for self-important douchebags who actually believe what they do matters.

All these bright-green environmentalists tote their Klean Kanteens smirking about their discount chai tea like money-

grubbing scavengers who would stoop for a quarter.

I will stop for nothing less than loose cash. Plus, I don’t want to be at the end of the line at Starbucks.

I see scruffy-haired geeks lug their own drinking vessel around, and I can’t help but think, “Oh, you’re real special. I bet that thrift store mug gets you lots of compliments from independent coffee-shop hipsters.”

A disposable cup is meant to be thrown away, and like most things in my life, I invest no sentimental attachment to small purchases.

I just like having stuff when I want it – it makes no difference to me what happens to the cup when I am done using it.

Just like the garbage in my kitchen, if it’s gone, I don’t have to worry about it. Not my trash, not my problem.

I will not be burdened with a Klean Kanteen, a mug or anything that might disrupt the flow of ordering a drink.

I require no more individuality than the chicken scratch on my Starbucks caramel macchiato cup. That’s all I need.

Kevin Crittenden can be reached at kcrittenden@theorion.com

WEEKLY TOP FIVE

Lies parents tell their children

Tara Miller the orion • ILLUSTRATION BY Liz Coffee

Opinion Coloumnist

Growing up, I believed everything my parents told me. No matter how unrealistic the lie was, I believed it. But as I got older, I began discovering devastating truths.

As kids, we’re all told some sort of lie from our parents. It’s just the way it works. And I guarantee you’ll end up being one of those parents too.

Fictional characters With Christmas coming up, this was the most appropriate lie to add to the list. Santa is probably the most popular character parents lie to their children about.

Seriously, how can a fat guy in a Christmas suit climb down the chimney? And what if there is no chimney?

Many children grow up believing in characters such as Santa Claus and the tooth fairy, when in reality, these characters turn out to be their parents. I found out Santa wasn’t real on my own, because the note he left me on the empty paper plate had the same handwriting as my dad. I was a little sad, but I accepted it.

How babies are made We’re all well aware of the birds and the bees, and if you haven’t, you’re missing out on a very interesting tale.

As kids, the story somehow makes sense.

It’s all about female ovulation (the birds) and male fertilization (the bees).

Let’s face it, the story doesn’t make any sense whatsoever, but at least it gives kids a boost of imagination. I understand the two parts, but how do they correlate?

I knew where babies came from before I

The Orion encourages letters to the editor and commentary from students, faculty, staff, administration and community members.

The administration is investigating nine Greek chapters on suspicion of alcohol abuse and sexual assaults.

Although these investigations and the suspension of university-recognized chapters will hinder chaos in Greek life, it will not address Chico State as a whole. These issues are not exclusive to Greeks, so it would also be helpful to step back and take a look at the greater issue in the community. More needs to be done.

Story A1

courtesy photo • Kaktuslampan via flickr

A Chico State Student sustained lifethreatening injuries after being hit by a car driven by a suspected driver under the influence.

At another time, an accident like this would be quickly investigated and left in the past, but Chico can hardly afford that at this moment. Much awareness has been raised on Chico’s drinking issue, but it does not seem to be enough. Along with city and university officials, the entire community battles to solve the drinking problem, like an alcoholic relapsing after a heart-to-heart talk.

Story A1

STUDY BREAK

Courtesy Photo • Su--May via flickr

heard this story, but it was fun just trying to hold in my giggles as I listened.

You can be anything you want when you grow up Parents usually tell their kids they can be anything they want to be when they grow up. Talk about overestimating our abilities.

But what they didn’t tell you was that your dreams might change as you mature, or that you might never realize what your dreams are. I always knew I wanted to be a magazine writer, and I knew it was possible. But even then, as a child, I had dreams bigger than I could achieve.

Telling the truth doesn’t get you in trouble No matter how honest a child is to his or her parents, they’re still going to get in trouble. It’ll be less punishment than if they had told lies, but they’ll still be grounded or put

• Letters and commentaries may be delivered to The Orion, Plumas Hall Room 001. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.

Letters are also accepted by e-mail and go directly to the opinion editor at opinioneditor@theorion.com

into the time-out corner.

I always got in trouble, no matter if I fibbed or not. But then again, as a child, I was quite the little liar. There was something picaresquely fun about dishonesty. And when I told the truth, the biggest consequence I got was being sent to my room.

Looks don’t matter because it’s the inside that really counts As much as the inside counts, looks can prove to be just as important. To parents, a child’s personality matters more, but once the kid is out in society, looks become a little more important, and as harsh as it sounds, the majority of people judge looks before personality.

Tara Miller can be reached at

Artist: Katy B Album: “Danger EP” After establishing her funky off-brand of vocally driven dubstep in 2011 with the debut of “On A Mission,” Katy B returns with her four-song “Danger EP.” Leading off with her strongest song to date, “Aaliyah,” Katy B, accompanied by the vocals of fellow Brit Jessie Ware, belts a true tribute to the pop musician of the same name that lost her life in 2001.

With layered in-house beats and driving synths, the EP is a strong danceable record that demonstrates how powerful lyrics do have a place in electronic music. Different from your traditional electronic artists, Katy B presents vocally driven electronic dance music focusing on lyrics and musicianship that allow for a unique experience.

tmiller@theorion.com

• Commentaries should be limited to 500 to 700 words and are subject to editing for length and clarity. Please include your phone number.

• Letters to the editor should be limited to fewer than 300 words, must include writer’s name and phone number (for verification) and are subject to condensation. Please include your year in school and major, or your business title.

-Compiled by Trevor Platt

• The Orion does not publish anonymous letters, letters that are addressed to a third party or letters that are in poor taste. The opinions expressed by The Orion’s columnists do not necessarily reflect those of The Orion or its staff.

A8 |

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

NEWS

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SPORTS

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WILDCAT OF THE WEEK B2 STAT ’CAT B2 GAMES SCHEDULE B2

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12, 2012

Chico State’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1975

’Cat retires after 33 years Freitas such a good coach over the years is how personable he has been with his athletes.

The Chico State athletic program “I have never seen him in a bad is losing its longest-tenured coach mood — he just always has a smile in Kirk Freitas. The men’s track and on his face,” junior decathlete J. field head coach announced his Patrick Smith said. “You don’t even retirement Dec. 4. need to say anything to him. He will Freitas has been at the helm of just walk up and start a friendly one the most successful programs at conversation with you.” the university for 33 years.

“There is a reason we call him He began coaching both the men’s ‘Papa Freitas,’” Sandhu said. “He and women’s track and field teams is always there, he really is what in 1979 before solely defines our team focusing on the and we will miss men’s team in 1998 being out here “It will feel like there is him when Oliver Hanf with us.” a huge piece missing at began coaching the Freitas graduated women’s team. practice and especially from Chico State In his tenure, Frehimself and had treat meets.” itas has coached mendous success 64 conference on the track as an Pardeep Sandhu champions, 47 Allathlete. senior pole-vaulter Americans and five In 1969, his relay national championteam won the West ship team.

Regional championship.

He was named the California ColHe also qualified for the national legiate Athletic Association Coach championship in 1968, 1970 and of the Year in nine seasons, and he 1971. Freitas earned all Far-West won the West Region Coach of the honors eight times as a track Year title four times. athlete.

A team meeting was held to notify In 1970, he set the Chico State the athletes that Freitas will not record in the 400-meter relay. That return as head coach. mark still ranks as the fifth-fastest The news was tough to hear, run for Wildcat runners. senior pole-vaulter Pardeep Sandhu Freitas earned his undergradsaid. uate and master’s degrees from “It was heartbreaking,” he said. the university in 1971 and 1974, “It will feel like there is a huge piece respectively. missing at practice and especially at meets.”

Adam Levine can be reached at One of the things that has made alevine@theorion.com

5

Adam Levine Staff Writer

Number of national titles the Chico State track and field team won under former head coach Kirk Freitas. The Chico State alumnus oversaw all aspects of the program for 19 years before women’s track and field head coach Oliver Hanf came aboard.

SOURCE • chicowildcats.com

MORE ON Kirk Freitas Coached 60 conference champions and 45 All-Americans in his first 32 years as a coach at Chico State.

Named Coach of the Year nine times in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.

Graduated from Chico State in 1971 with a degree in physical education and received his master’s in 1974.

SOURCE • chicowildcats.com

Photo courtesy of Chico state Sports Information department

STAFF COMMENTARY

Sports culture changes with infusion of forward-thinking athletes Trevor Platt A sst. Sports Editor

Sports are ever-evolving platforms.

More acceptance is being displayed in sports than ever before, and there is less of the overly macho hyper-masculinity that has been pushed on many enthusiasts in the past.

Pat Griffin, the former director of Changing the Game, the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network Sports Project, recently spoke on campus about the issues of heterosexism and homophobia in sports.

I hope that as a nation, we will someday truly become accepting and loving people. You know, the country so many Americans

like to pretend we are already a part of.

But I worry it may never happen.

When I look back at the history of sports, the clear bigotry and hyper-masculinity are saddening. Being a sports fan used to come with the burden of this type of judgment and close-mindedness.

But things are changing. We see athletes growing as role models and making progress toward a better society more and more often.

A few months ago, Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo openly voiced his support for a Maryland ballot initiative that legalized same-sex marriage in the November election.

When I hear about acceptance like this I become excited for a future in which people let others do things that make them happy. This could be the start of the future in which people stop trying to control others as heatedly as they do today.

I like seeing actions like Ayanbadejo’s in sports because in many ways, it has always been, “you throw like a girl,” or you’re a “sissy” if you aren’t the

biggest and strongest athlete.

The culture of sports has always been overly zealous, masculine and testosterone-filled. It is also one many people watch and respect.

I can’t imagine how many girls and boys dream of someday becoming basketball, soccer, baseball or football players. Professional athletes are idols for kids. Seeing the pros heading in the right direction brings me hope.

Then I read the responses to Ayanbadejo’s statements from politicians.

Maryland Delegate Emmett C. Burns responded by writing a letter to Steve Bisciotti, the owner of the Ravens football team, urging him to control his employees.

“Many of my constituents and your football supporters are appalled and aghast that a member of the Ravens football team

would step into this controversial divide and try to sway public opinion one way or the other,” Burns wrote.

It is a curious situation when society often deems athletes solely as meatheads playing a game but the same players have an easier time seeing what is right and accepting a progressive, forwardthinking point of view. There are athletes voicing their opinions and standing up for what is right. Yet there are public officials, elected to protect the people, promoting bigoted ideas.

Following this incident I once again found hope, but not in politicians. My optimism came from another football player.

Chris Kluwe, the Minnesota Vikings punter, caught wind of Burns’ letter and decided to take a stance with some strong language.

“Your vitriolic hatred and bigotry make me ashamed and disgusted to think that you are in any way responsible for shaping policy at any level,” Kluwe wrote to Deadspin.com in response to Burns.

Kluwe continued by using some colorful language and tearing Burns apart for his comments.

As younger and younger athletes enter the level of professional sports, I hope they continue to push the fold. It really will be these players who have a big impact on young people, no matter the support.

I find more hope for change from two football players than I do from countless politicians. And yes, there are still a lot of things that need to be fixed about sports, but this is certainly not a bad place to start.

Trevor Platt can be reached at tplatt@theorion.com

the orion •ILLUSTRATION BY liz coffee

B2 |

WILDCAT of the

WEEK

BLAKE MEHIGAN sp o r t s e d i t o r

The Benchwarmer Blake Mehigan Sports Editor

Getting the ball rolling After starting the season ranked 16th in Division II in the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the Chico State men’s basketball team now sits in eighth place of 12 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.

This is unlike the fast starts we saw the Wildcats make in the past two seasons, 7-1 in 2010 and 5-0 in 2011, with last season culminating in an NCAA tournament win in the first round.

Annie Ward #20 sophomore guard

Year Games MPG PPG 2012

6

16.2

Total

26

9.3

RPG

APG

7.2

0.3

1.2

3.8

0.4

0.5

Chico State

#

20

Annie Ward Position: Guard Class: Sophomore Height: 5 feet, 10 inches

With her first starting gig of the season, the Lafayette native shot 6-9 from beyond the arc and an impressive 9-16 overall.

Ward posted 25 points, three assists, one block and a steal during Saturday’s win over Seattle Pacific University.

W i l d C a ts STAT ’CAT

6

(women’s basketball) Wins the team has this season. The Wildcats still stand undefeated.

17

(men’s basketball) Points scored by junior guard Sean Park in the Wildcats’ Thursday night loss against Cal State Stanislaus.

46

(WOMen’s Basketball) Seconds left in the game before senior guard Monnie Davidson-Mays’ layup that gave the ’Cats their first lead of the night in their win against sixth-ranked Western Washington University.

58.8 (WOMEN’S BASKETBALL)

Shooting percentage of the team from three-point range in its win over Seattle Pacific University and final game of the Coslet Classic on Saturday night.

sports all week @ theorion.com

SPORTS

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

Starting with a 3-3 overall record is no reason to freak out, but it looks like the departure of graduate Jay Flores may be affecting the team more than initially thought. While I don’t want to hit the panic button this early in the year, adjustments will likely need to be made for the team’s post-winter break games.

Thursday’s home loss to Cal State Stanislaus came at the hands of Warrior Sam Marcus’ 18 second-half points. The junior guard nailed a jumper at the buzzer to beat the Wildcats.

Chico State will get a chance to improve its record with Simpson University on deck this Friday, a team that comes in with a paltry 3-10 record for the year. The ’Cats may also be able to redeem themselves at Cal State Stanislaus on Dec. 29, their last game of 2012.

Even though the men’s team is sputtering early on, Chico State’s women’s basketball team has taken a different route.

With a blistering 6-0 start, the ’Cats have been impressive. The win Friday over Western Washington University came with a hard push after an early deficit. The sixth-ranked

Vikings fell in the closing moments to Chico State.

Despite senior Synchro Bull playing limited minutes after coming back from an injury, juniors Jazmine Miller and McKenzie Dalthorp have played huge for the Wildcats.

The team’s run-and-gun style of play has been one reason why it has done so well, averaging 73.3 points per game this season.

Dalthorp has scored in double figures in five of six games, and Miller scored 10 points or more in all six games of the season. It’s easy to imagine that once Bull is back to full strength Chico State will only become more potent.

With winter break approaching, both squads have something to work for. Coach Greg Clink’s men’s squad can play up to the preseason hype, and coach Brian Fogel’s women’s team can strive to continue its success.

Blake Mehigan can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com

Athletics, beer pong sport likeness can’t beat” may cause tiebreakers the next week, Henning said.

Staff Writer “It’s the same rivalry with a sport but with Music beats pumped through the house, smaller teams,” he said. students stumbled from room to room and Players use strategies like bouncing the junior business major Josh Henning concen- ball into a cup, which is worth two cups, or trated on throwing a white plastic ball into trying to shoot for a single cup isolated from the game’s last beer-filled cup. the others. In this case, the shooter calls Similar to sports, beer pong is a col- “island,” telling the other team the isolated lege pastime that has earned fame among cup is targeted. students and beer drinkers alike for the ded“People will wave their hands in front of ication, skill and teamwork infused into the the cups and try to distract the other playgame. ers,” Henning said. “Or say you’re on a roll Beer pong is made up of as the first player to shoot, 20 cups, four players, two making every cup. You’ll be Ping-Pong balls, beer and “You have a teammate the first one to shoot every one table, usually borrowed whom you play better time.” from the neighbor’s house To build morale with his with, chemisty is when Henning holds tournapartner, Henning created a imporant.” ments. The cups are equally special handshake. divided, with 10 shaped into Despite what can sometriangles on each side of times be seen as a laid-back Josh Henning junior business major the table before players are vibe, strict rules apply to drafted. beer pong. Every household “You have a teammate whom you play has a set of rules that largely factors into the better with,” Henning said. “Chemistry is outcome of the game. For example, many important.” beer pong players extend rebuttals to give After teams are selected, the beer is the losing team the chance to extend the poured. game.

As he squares up to the table, Henning “You’re either going to play with a onetakes into account contextual factors, he cup rebuttal or you have to make all the said. cups, which is completely different,” Hen“If I’m playing on a certain type of table ning said. “If a house plays with a one-cup I’m not used to, I don’t do as well,” Henning rebuttal, you have a good chance of consaid. tinuing and maybe possibly winning, as The same can be said about Chico State’s opposed to if you have to make four or five volleyball team, which struggled away from cups per rebuttal.” home with five consecutive losses, two Another rule held in most games is the against teams previously beaten in Acker finger and blowing rule. If a player makes a Gym. cup and the ball circles the rim before touchThe players of the winning beer pong ing the beer, the defensive team can either team stay at the table for the next team to “blow” or “finger” the ball out of the cup. compete against.

Beer pong is usually played Thursday, Other players usually have a difficult time Friday and Saturday as a pre-game before beating the rallies of the defending winners, parties, but it’s also played during large parHenning said. ties, Henning said.

“Winning streaks help to a point, but then “College students could definitely live you might get too drunk to continue to play without it,” Henning said. “But it is somewell,” he said. thing that’s gonna be around for generations When two teams play well, rivalries can to come.” develop, like the one between the Chico State and Humboldt State basketball teams.

Paul Smeltzer can be reached at Continuously losing to a team “you just psmeltzer@theorion.com Paul Smeltzer

STANDINGS

MORE ON beer pong 1983-1985 — thought to be the formative years of the early version of beer pong, commonly known as Beirut then.

Lehigh University and Bucknell are widely considered to be the two colleges where the game was originally played.

SOURCE • beer-universe.com

GAMES SCHEDULE

Men’s Basketball CCAA

Cal Poly Pomona 3-0 Cal State San Bernardino 3-0 San Francisco State 3-1 Cal State Dominguez Hills 2-1 Cal State East Bay 2-1 Sonoma State 2-2 Humboldt State 1-2 Chico State 1-2 Cal State L.A. 1-2 Cal State Stanislaus 1-2 Cal State Monterey Bay 0-3 UC San Diego 0-3

Overall 7-0 3-1 5-3 5-4 3-3 3-3 4-2 3-3 2-3 2-3 3-6 1-5

woMen’s Basketball CCAA

Chico State 3-0 UC San Diego 2-0 Humboldt State 3-1 Cal State Monterey Bay 2-1 Cal State L.A. 2-2 San Francisco State 2-2 Sonoma State 2-2 Cal State San Bernardino 1-1 Cal State East Bay 1-2 Cal Poly Pomona 1-3 Cal State Dominguez Hills 1-3 Cal State Stanislaus 0-3

Overall 6-0 4-5 6-3 5-1 5-2 3-3 3-4 2-3 3-4 2-4 2-6 0-6

*bold indicates CCAA game

men’s basketball

women’s basketball

Friday, 7 p.m.

Today, 7 p.m.

@

VS.

SimpsoN University

Norte Dame de Namur

Dec. 29, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 7 p.m.

Conference 0-0 (3-10 OVERALL)

Conference 0-2 (1-5 OVERALL)

@

VS.

CAL State Stanislaus

CAL State Stanislaus

CCAA 0-3 (0-6 OVERALL)

CCAA 1-2 (2-3 OVERALL)

Jan. 4 Jan. 5 Jan. 11 Jan. 12 Jan. 18 Jan. 19 Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 31 Feb. 2 Feb. 8 Feb. 9 Feb. 15

Sonoma State San Francisco State @ UC San Diego @ Cal State San Bernardino @ Cal State L.A. @ Cal State Dominguez Hills Cal State Monterey Bay @ @ @ @

Cal State East Bay Humboldt State Cal Poly Pomona San Francisco State Sonoma State Cal State San Bernardino

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Jan. 4 Jan. 5

7:30 p.m.

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Jan. 11 Jan. 12 Jan. 18 Jan. 19

7:30 p.m.

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Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 31 Feb. 2 Feb. 8 Feb. 9 Feb. 15

Sonoma State San Francisco State @ UC San Diego @ Cal State San Bernardino @ Cal State L.A. @ Cal State Dominguez Hills Cal State Monterey Bay Cal State East Bay @ Humboldt State @ Cal Poly Pomona @ San Francisco State @ Sonoma State Cal State San Bernardino

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SPORTS

sports all week @ theorion.com

| B3

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

in Case You MIssed it

Women’s basketball team stays undefeated; men’s team suffers close loss Chico State men’s team falls to 1-2 in conference, women’s squad jumps to 6-0 start

standings at 4-0. Chico State’s next game is on the road against the Notre Dame De Namur Argonauts today.

Men’s basketball The Chico State men’s basketball team lost a close game, 68-66, Thursday against Cal State Stanislaus.

Jake Martin The Wildcats seemed in control durStaff Writer ing the first half but struggled down the Women’s basketball stretch to contain 5-foot-8-inch guard The Chico State women’s basketball Sam Marcus, who scorched the ’Cats for team extended its winning streak to six 18 of the Spartans’ second-half 35 points. in this weekend’s 40th Coslet Classic Junior guard Sean Park led the WildTournament. cats with 17 points, Winning back-to-back shooting 6-11 from the games, the Wildcats field. Center Jason ConVisit theorion.com downed sixth-ranked rad contributed 11 points for coverage of Western Washington Uniand nine rebounds, and tonight’s women’s versity, 75-74, and Seattle Rashad Parker scored 13 Pacific University, 89-77, points, had two rebounds, basketball game to remain undefeated on two assists and two steals. the season.

After Thursday’s loss, The team strugthe Wildcats fell to 3-3 gled early in Friday’s game against overall and 1-2 in the CCAA. Western Washington, and the Vikings The team’s next game is at home Friday out-rebounded the ’Cats 24-6 in the first against Simpson University. half.

After falling into a 17-4 deficit, junior Jake Martin can be reached at guard Jazmine Miller sparked an offen- jmartin@theorion.com sive run with back-to-back baskets and closed the Vikings’ lead to 21-14.

MORE ON Senior Monnie Davidson-Mays scored men’s and women’s basketball six points, leading the Chico State frontcourt to score 13 of the team’s 26 first-half Annie Ward’s points per game average points. doubled on the season from 3.6 to 7.2 folDuring the second half, the ’Cats’ lowing her 25-point performance in the guards combined for 41 points to close Wildcats’ 89-77 win against Seattle Pacific the deficit. With 46 seconds left in the on Saturday. game, Chico State took its first lead of the night off of a Davidson-Mays steal and Sean Park led the ’Cats in scoring with 17 layup, helping to seal the 75-74 victory. points Thursday in the team’s 68-66 loss to Cal State Stanislaus. Park was one of three The Wildcats bested Seattle Pacific players to score in double digits on the 89-77 Saturday. Sophomore Annie Ward night for Chico State. scored 25 points, dished out three assists, SOURCE • chicowildcats.com swiped the ball twice and swatted one shot during her first start of the season.

Over the weekend, Miller had 29 points, 11 assists, six rebounds and three GAME 1 (men’s basketball) steals as one of the team’s best all-around Cal State Stanislaus 68 players. Junior McKenzie Dalthorp had Chico State 66 23 points and nine rebounds while sophomore Analise Riezebos lead the team GAME 1 (women’s basketball) with 11 boards. Junior Courtney Hamilton Western Washington University 74 was named the tournament’s MVP with Chico State 75 20 points, 13 assists, eight rebounds and four steals.

GAME 2 By sweeping the tournament, the Seattle Pacific University 77 team’s record improved to a perfect Chico State 89 6-0, and the ’Cats are first in the California Collegiate Athletic Association

Photo courtesy of Sam Mich - Chico state Sports Information Department

On the attack Sophomore guard Annie Ward poured in 25 points in the Chico State women’s basketball team’s 89-77 win against Seattle Pacific University on Saturday. Ward led the Wildcats in scoring on a night that saw three other teammates also score in double figures.

SERVICE DIRECTORY CALENDAR

CAMPUS

TODAY

T h u r sday

F r i day

Unexpected Identities

@ The Turner Print Museum 10 a.m. - 4p.m.

Free

A culminating exhibition of a fine arts student’s works of art.

See prints that portray social, political, and gender issues in the Turner exhibit.

COMMUNITY t h u r sday

Follow @theorion_sports for live coverage of the games

f r i day

Bah! Humbug Festival of Crafts

Kreayshawn

Come to the 32nd annual festival with crafts, jewelry, holiday spices and more.

Kreayshawn will perform with Rye Rye, Honey Cocaine and Chippy Nonstop.

@ 869 East Avenue 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Free

@ The Senator Theatre 8 p.m. $17.50

Come watch the Chico Community Ballet’s 33rd season performance of The Nutcracker to kick off the holiday.

The North State Symphony is putting on their Christmas concert, Experience the Season.

Su n day

Turner Print Museum Exhibit

@ Laxson Auditorium 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. $16 for students

@ St. Johns Catholic Church 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. $10 for students

The Chico State Religious Diversity Association will have a photo booth to breakdown stereotypes in the community.

12 - 3 p.m. @ B-so Space Gallery, Ayres Hall 5-7 p.m.

Free

The Nutcracker

Experience the Season

@ Bell Memorial Union Auditorium 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Free

Kellen Dyer: Build-up

Sat u r day

mon day

Cross-Cultural Leadership Center Pancake feast @ Cross-Cultural Leadership Center, Meriam Library Room 172 9- 10:30 a.m.

Free Stop by the Pancake Feast to start off your finals week with food to help you focus.

TODAY:

sat u r day

“August: Osage County” @ Southside Playhouse 7:30 p.m. $10

“August” is a dark comedic play by Tracy Letts about a family whose secrets come out.

Su n day

Dan DeWayne Retirement Celebration @ Public Events Office 2 - 5 p.m.

Free

Help celebrate Public Event DIrector Dan DeWayne’s retirement and pass along best wishes.

Shane & Shane/Phil Wickham

El Rey Theatre 7 p.m. $20 Come watch Phil Wickham play tonight for the 2012 Christmas tour with Shane & Shane.

Su n day

Mon day

Chico Chai Holiday Open House

Sierra Nevada Brewery Tour

Come to Chico Chai for a chai tea tasting and treats in the restaurant.

Take the tour to learn all about the brewing process and try some award-winning ales.

@ 1919 Park Avenue Noon - 4 p.m.

Free

Noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m.

Free

WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

Visit theorion.com and follow us @theorion_news

Our hunt is now a daily one

BUT IAM NOTALONE. It takes a team.

I am a hunter of truth,

B4 |

SPORTS sports all week @ theorion.com

Sex column B6 Food Column B7 Savvy Saving B7

features all week at theorion.com

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12, 2012

Chico State’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1975

Sleep on it

Psychological effects of skipping slumber

Risa Johnson Staff Writer

Editor’s note: As final exams approach, The Orion surveyed readers to find out how lack of sleep affects academic performance and interviewed a clinic professional and psychology students who recently completed a study on sleep patterns.

Senior psychology majors Robert Liedtke, Jenna Allen, Mario Morales and Maretta De Venuta studied how sleep affects the brain for psychology Professor Martin Van Den Berg’s cognition course.

Here’s what they found: Sleep impacts mood. Loss of sleep causes irritability, drowsiness, inability to concentrate, interference in personal relationships and nervousness.

Keeping a regular sleep schedule is best. In a study the students performed, some students were deprived of sleep for 48 hours. Those who performed best had

a regular sleep schedule and went to bed about the same time to get about the same amount of sleep each night.

Using light before bed confuses the brain. Having a laptop or lights on within an hour of going to bed causes the brain to interpret the light as sunlight and feel it needs to be awake.

Memories are formed during sleep. The sleep-deprived cannot perform as well, recall information or filter out distractions. All those formulas students spend time trying to learn the night before finals are gone in the morning.

Advice from a sleep doctor: Don’t pull an all-nighter. One night’s loss of sleep greatly affects people. Not getting needed dreamsleep will cause you to fall asleep during the day without realizing it. The cognitive part of the brain is also affected, especially in younger people. You may eventually fall asleep at the wheel or in class.

Resist coffee. During finals, and as a general rule, people should not drink caffeine after noon or six to eight hours before sleeping, because it will take longer to fall asleep.

Treat yourself to a bubble bath. Taking a hot bath before going to bed will help you sleep because melatonin is produced when the body is heated and then cooled down.

A 15-minute power nap early in the day can be refreshing, but an hourlong nap will disrupt your sleep.

Do not consume alcohol before bed. Drinking alcohol before bed causes interrupted sleep, making it difficult for the body to get deep sleep, or REM sleep, during which memories are formed.

Don’t smoke. It is known that smoking cigarettes is bad for general health, but it is especially bad for your sleep cycle because nicotine is a stimulant.

Turn off your iPod. Turn off lights, TV, music and any source of noise before bed. When holding sleep studies, the Sleep Diagnostics of Chico lab uses a totally noise-free environment to induce deep sleep as fast as possible.

Nap wisely. A 15-minute power nap early in the day can be refreshing, but an hourlong nap will disrupt your sleep.

Did you know?

Going without sleep will make you crazy. After about three days with no sleep, hallucinations begin and the brain has dreams during waking hours.

Adults perform at their psychological and academic best with nine to 10 hours of sleep a night. Thirty-two percent of adults get six hours or fewer on average.

Everyone dreams. People have about four to five dreams a night. A dream is remembered if you wake up toward the end of it.

The rapid eye movement cycle makes up 20 to 25 percent of a person’s sleep. The amount of REM sleep a person gets stays the same throughout their whole life.

The mark previously recognized by the Guinness World Records for longest time without sleep is 11 consecutive days. Randy Gardner set the record in 1964, but it has since been removed from Guinness’ recognized categories. Going without sleep for that long can cause irregular heartbeats and increased blood pressure.

Those all-nighters won’t affect you in the long run.

The sleep people get in college won’t affect them later.

The most common sleeping disorder is sleep apnea.

The disorder, which causes abnormal pauses in breathing while sleeping, is the greatest cause of excessive daytime drowsiness.

Do you think lack of sleep affects your level of productivity?

Yes No

48 respondents

8

Do you get four hours of sleep or fewer more than once a week?

Yes No

18

38

Do you expect to get four hours of sleep or fewer more than once during dead week and finals week?

Yes No

22

34

How many hours of sleep do you usually get during dead week and finals week?

8 or more 4 7 to 8 6 to 7 5 or fewer

13 15

23

How many hours of sleep do you get on an average school night?

8 or more 8 14 7 to 8 6 to 7 5 or fewer 11

25

How many hours of sleep do you get on an average weekend night?

8 or more 7 to 8 6 to 7 5 or fewer

11 7

25

15

Results from an unscientific online survey at theorion.com.

SOURCE • Michelle fehling, Respiratory Care practitioner and registered polysomnograpic technologist at Sleep diagnostic of chico

Accessibilty Resource Center assists with student success Corey Bruecker Staff Writer

Every day, Chico State students with disabilities face challenges that others are unaware of.

The Accessibility Resource Center provides help on campus for those with any type of disability.

“The students know their limitations, so hopefully when they come to us, they can say what they need help with and we can provide them the resources.” said Van Alexander, a learning disabilities specialist.

The ARC’s staff members commit themselves to working with students to develop solutions for whatever they may be struggling with.

“We don’t really have a laundry list of programs or resources that we offer,” said Sandy Parsons-Ellis, director of the center. “We coordinate a set of

accommodations based on of freshmen mechatronic MORE ON their individual needs.” engineering majors said the how to access the ARC The ARC does provide center played a large role Go to csuchico.edu/ cart service, which allows in their decision to come to arc and fill out a form students to request rides Chico State. to register with the to and from class if they “The program is just very ARC and request have a disability that friendly,” Arnett said. “It accommodations. makes it difficult to get felt more personal, like I from place to place. wasn’t just another number Provide disability docThe Chico State atmoor another paycheck to the umentation from a sphere makes the ARC school.” qualified professional. stand out, Alexander Both Draper and Arnett said. have found the private study Meet with an ARC adviser.

“There’s a real conrooms provided by the ARC in nectivity on campus,” he Meriam Library to be instruAccomodations can said. “The campus is so mental in their success at begin two weeks after friendly and everyone is school. The rooms allow them requesting services. so approachable, it makes to get away from the loud students feel welcome.” dorm environment and to SOURCE • csuchico.edu/arc Two students who work in a quiet place. agree that the ARC takes “They’ve helped me a lot a personalized approach are cousins this semester,” Draper said. “I’m really Jimmy Draper and Eric Arnett. The pair grateful for everything they’ve done for

me.”

Scott Quade, a senior criminal justice major, works as a proctor for students who require longer testing times or quiet rooms to study in, but he also uses the services.

Quade injured his shoulder and now gets his books converted to CD so he can carry them on his laptop, which is lighter than textbooks, he said.

The ARC continues to help students with disabilities not only while they’re attending Chico State, but also after they graduate.

“When students leave here, they’re taking their disability with them,” Parsons-Ellis said. “We’re preparing them to manage their disability in relationship to their career and family and life in the future.”

Corey Bruecker can be reached at cbruecker@theorion.com

B6 |

O-FACE: Conditions of consent

Aubrey Crosby Sex Columnist

In this world there are instances when we’ve been told no and continue anyway. And in some cases this is OK. Who’s going to notice that one extra cookie missing from the cookie jar?

But in college, it doesn’t usually work that way.

When I went to a party with some of my sorority sisters a few weeks ago, a guy I had just met that night was trying everything to get into my pants, and I told him no. Rather than stopping like a rational person, he told me I was drunk and didn’t know what I was talking about.

When he stuck his hand down my pants and tried to finger me, I was done.

I’ll admit, I’d had my fair share of drinks that night, but that was still no excuse for his actions.

It’s not easy to say why people act this way.

Maybe it’s the alcohol or the raging hormones. A big part of the problem is that we live in a world where sex is around us 24/7. It’s not always a bad thing, because it leads people to be more open to sexual identities and ideas.

But on the other hand, shows like “Jersey Shore” highlight how awesome it must be to have drunken sex with a stranger you met at a party.

When people try this on their own, they don’t often realize it’s rape. They’re just doing what they’ve been taught through pop culture.

But there are some other interesting theories out there.

In a blog post on Feminspire.com, writer Rachel Kay Albers states why playing hard to get, another notion taught over and over to collegeaged women, leads to the same issues.

When we play hard to get, we teach our partners that when we say “no” or “I’m not sure,” even if it isn’t in the fun and flirty context, we want them to continue anyway.

Some things need to change. Not just with me or you, but with everyone.

Consent is more than just a cookie from the jar. It’s permission given without coercion or pressure. Unfortunately, pressure is something people are all too willing to give into, especially at our age. Losing your virginity and being sexually active are glorified everywhere we look.

Not only do perpetrators not realize what it means to get consent, victims of sexual assault don’t often know that having sex when they don’t want to, whether they said no or not, is rape.

I gave into peer pressure in middle school. I never outright said no, but I didn’t say yes either, and I was nervous about what everyone else would think.

It took four years for me to realize I had been raped. It never felt right, but I thought that because I was unclear with him, it didn’t count as sexal assault — that it was my fault for putting myself in the situation.

Too many other people have been in the same situation, and it is never OK. In order for things to change, sexual confrontations need to be free of pressure and fear. Stand your ground if you decide against having sex. It’s not easy, but when you find the courage to speak your mind, you make a difference.

Aubrey Crosby can be reached at sexcolumnist@theorion.com

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WedneSday, DEC. 12, 2012

Punk legend shares insight on file-sharing Nicole Gerspacher Staff Writer

Global music piracy loses the United States economy $12.5 billion every year.

That totals 71,060 U.S. jobs lost, $2.7 billion in workers’ earnings lost and $422 million in federal tax revenues lost, according to an analysis by the Institute for Policy Innovation.

Dead Kennedys guitarist and punk legend East Bay Ray visited Chico State Thursday to address what he considers to be misuse of music.

Anita Rivas, a music industry lawyer and Chico State’s record label and production program adviser, joined East Bay Ray and discussed, in talk-show fashion, the harmful effects of piracy and the influence “big tech” has on the music industry.

Big tech companies like Google, Pandora and MTV exploit and oppress musicians and their work, East Bay Ray said.

In 1985, the Dead Kennedys sang a song called “MTV — Get Off the Air,” and that sentiment hasn’t changed for East Bay Ray. Big tech and recording artists are the equivalent of pimps and prostitutes, he said.

“Pimps are not cool, especially when they don’t pay their hookers,” East Bay Ray said, receiving applause and laughter from the audience.

There is a distinction between sharing a couple copies of a CD with friends or family and mass-producing someone’s content for the general public to earn money from others’ work, he said.

“The difference is that we do all the work and they get all the money,” East Bay Ray said.

There has been a 45 percent decrease in the number of independent musicians since 2002, he said.

The people who really have to worry about the piracy problem are future generations of creators, he said.

His warning resonated with Hugh Hammond, a senior music composition and recording arts major.

“It’s confusing. You want to get your music to people, but you don’t know how to do it so that it is fair to everyone,” he said. “I hope that we will all be able to figure it out.”

Big tech companies are able to control much of the music industry by gathering content, putting it on their websites and getting paid advertisements, East Bay Ray said. If caught, companies sometimes claim to be responsible hosts under the 1998 amendments to the Online Copyright Infringement Liability Limitation Act. After promises of removing content and blaming users, the companies cash their checks from ads placed on the pages.

The amendments to the act protect the hosting websites from being sued for copyrighted material if a customer puts the material up, rather than the host.

Big tech companies are looking to make all the creative content free and to almost eliminate the copyright law all together, East Bay Ray said.

Google is the biggest offender of big tech exploitation, he said.

Rivas also blames the Internet giant.

“Google likes to pretend like they are our friends,” she said.

East Bay Ray considers Spotify, a music streaming application from Sweden, to be corrupt.

Lina Falk, a Swedish foreign exchange student involved

the orion •PHOTOgRAPHs BY Alexandra archuleta

piracy East Bay Ray speaks about illegally downloading music and big tech companies to students from Chico State and Butte College as well as members of the Chico community Thursday.

spreading the word Anita Rivas, Chico State’s record label adviser, collaborates with East Bay Ray onstage in Rowland-Taylor Recital Hall to raise awareness about the issue of big businesses taking profit away from independent recording artists. with KCSC radio and SOTA Productions on campus, disagrees with East Bay Ray, and supports Spotify and what the program has to offer.

“How we view Spotify and how it is used in Sweden is that people really pay for the service,” Falk said.

The music industry can cut its losses to piracy by creating and offering a variety of music services online, she said.

“The situation is what it is, and you cannot just rewind it,” Falk said.

At the close of the night, Rivas and the punk musician received a standing ovation from the audience before East Bay Ray answered follow-up questions, posed for pictures and signed autographs for fans.

Nicole Gerspacher can be reached at ngerspacher@theorion.com

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FOOD COLUMN: Fast fuel for finals

Nine-can soup

Annie Paige

PREP 5 minutes TOTAL 1 hour SERVING SIZE 16

food columnist

As the semester comes to an end, it’s safe to start preparing for the chaos of finals.

Having a few meals made in advance for this head-rolling, busybody week is one of the wisest choices you can make.

Nine-can soup involves a recipe that takes as much effort as opening a bunch of cans to heat over the stove, and it will stay fresh in the fridge for the remainder of the semester.

Get rid of one less stress in your dayto-day life and stock up on this satisfying soup.

WHAT YOU NEED 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15

Annie Paige can be reached at foodcolumnist@theorion.com

15

ounce can of corn ounce can of green beans ounce can of diced tomatoes ounce can mixed vegetables ounce can of Campbell’s old-fashioned veggie soup ounce can of sliced potatoes ounce can of chili with beans ounce can of chili without beans ounce can of chicken

HOW TO MAKE IT OPEN all of the cans.

EMPTY items into a large pot.

SIMMER for an hour until heated all the way through.

the orion •PHOTOgRAPH BY annie paige

SAVVY SAVING: Crafty gift-giving

Samantha Youngman savings columnist

The weather outside is frightful, but your bank account doesn’t have to be.

The holidays are a time for giving, but presenting amazing gifts can be done on a budget without leaving you feeling like Scrooge.

I’ve scoured Pinterest for some of my favorite do-it-yourself holiday gifts.

What are your ways to save? Let us know!

Food One popular idea involves a mix in a jar. Common ones are brownie mix, hot chocolate mix and cookie mix. Add a cute ribbon and a tag with directions, and you are done.

These are good when you have a lot of people to buy for because the ingredients can be bought in bulk to make it a bit cheaper.

Drinks For the fans of alcoholic beverages, make candy cane vodka. Again, this works well in something like a Mason jar. Soak a cup of candy canes in vodka for two days and you have a great party gift. The price of vodka ranges depending on quality and quantity, but you can get a handle of Smirnoff at Safeway for $18 and it can be divided into smaller containers to make more than one gift. Candy canes can be found at any dollar store.

Photos Find your friends’ photos on Instagram or use your own, and print them out about 1 inch by 1 inch. Leave a little white border around each one.

Print 12 to a sheet and mount them on foam board.

Cut the photos out to make them look like Polaroids and add a magnet to the back of each one.

Your friends will love the personalized magnets. You can find 25-foot magnet strips and foam board for less than $10.

Dishware Buy plain plates from a dollar store and use a permanent marker to decorate them however you want. You can use a friend’s initials or try out holiday symbols. Bake them at 350 F for 30 minutes. Your design will be permanent and safe to eat from. This is also a good idea for a potluck.

Make peppermint cookies and bring them on your matching plate. The guests will think you are Martha Stewart.

Candles I recently made my friend a Mason jar candle holder for her birthday.

She loves big books, so I ripped out two pages from one of my dad’s old books and cut out a heart in each of them. I glued them together and put them in the jar with a small candle. I wrapped a bow around the top, and she loved it.

This is another present that costs next to nothing and can be made in bulk. I got the book from my dad, some tea lights from my mom and found some ribbon at home. The jar I bought cost me less than $3 with tax. If you don’t have books you want to rip up, go to the Salvation Army on Broadway Street for books as low as $1.50. Tea lights can be found at the dollar store in 12 packs.

As with any gift-giving occasion, know your audience and aim to please. Add personal touches to these gifts to make them more special than something you found in a savings column.

For more gift ideas visit my Pinterest page at pinterest. com/samanthalari/gifts.

Samantha Youngman can be reached at multimediamanager@theorion.com

B8 |

WEDNESDAY, DEC.12, 12,2012 2012 WedneSday, DEC.

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