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News »Environment: New hydration stations placed in Glenn Hall. A3
»Aphrodisiacs: Food columnist Grace Kerfoot discusses meals that set the mood. B6
Opinion »PTSD: An opinion columnist discusses often unseen damage of veterans. A6 Sports: »Column: How the NFL commissioner dealt with a controversial season. B3 J.Q. Hammer/The Orion
Arts »Artist: Local “pro-doodler” and student works to make her business stick. B7
STD SURGE
Theorion.com | Wednesday, February 11, 2015 | Vol. 74, Issue 4 | First copy free, additional copies 50¢
Medical marijuana use limited by location Medicinal weed use allowed in state, but subject to restrictions William Rein
Staff Writer
A property manager who owns a house on West First Avenue has threatened to contact police to crack down on students who are using the backyard as a hideaway to smoke marijuana. On Feb. 3, a hand-written sign was posted on the fence of the property warning that the owner would contact police if there was continued problems with drug use. While medicinal marijuana is legal in California, no designated locations exist to be able to use it, as with pubs for alcohol or hookah bars for tobacco. On Dec. 13, the federal government officially stopped its active proscription of medical marijuana. States previously stuck between state legalization and federal prohibition — like California, which has allowed medicinal marijuana to anyone recommended since the passage of Proposition 215 in 1996 — are now free from government persecution. Today, 18-year-olds in California can see a doctor to get approval to purchase a green card for about $100 annually. This allows them to possess up to 8 ounces of marijuana legally. However, green cards still don’t protect the holder from smoking in public, driving under the influence and employer urine tests. Further, medical marijuana laws prohibit use: at or within 1000 feet of a youth center, recreational center or school, anywhere smoking is prohibited by law and in a moving motor vehicle or boat. The 1000-feet rule is illustrated by a map on the police department’s website that includes the area where the West First Avenue house is located. The guidelines surrounding enforcement have been full of contradictions and conflicts throughout the past few years. In 2011, the Chico Police Officers Association sent a letter to the Chico City Council after plans for the construction of two medical marijuana dispensaries were approved. The letter described that members of the police union “will not participate in any part of the medical marijuana ordinance that involves commercial
» please see WEED | A3
INDEX Corrections
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Weather
A2
Police Blotter
A4
Opinion
A6
Sports
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Directory
B3
Features
B5
Sex Column
B6
A+E
B7
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Increase in gonorrhea cases causes concern for sex safety, education in Butte County Whitney Urmann
News Editor
T
he number of gonorrhea cases being reported in Butte County has doubled during the last year and reached epidemic levels, according to a press release by the Butte County Public Health Department. Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can be spread through oral, anal or vaginal sex. It can cause infections in areas like
the genitals, throat and rectum. If left untreated, it can result in serious health problems, such as sterility. Three hundred cases of the sexually transmitted disease were reported throughout the county last year. Ages affected ranged from 13 to 62 years old. In 2013, there were 143 reported cases, which was more than double the 69 reported in 2012. The Public Health Department classifies the outbreak as an epidemic because of the high rate of increase that has occurred in a such a short amount of time.
Despite Chico having such a compact population of college students, less than half of the 300 cases were in people between the ages of 14 and 25. Less than half, however, still put numbers in the hundreds for the younger demographic. One in two young people will contract an STD by the age of 25, said Lisa Almaguer, communications director for the Butte County Public Health Department. County officials are working to get the word out about the epidemic and stop it from worsening. A couple of projects the department has in store include: public service announcements, social media outreach and radio and television notices, Almaguer said.
» please see STDS | A3
Housing adapts to increased enrollment “If I wouldn’t have got a place through incoming students this year, University the school, I don’t know where I would be Housing and Food Service moved the comStaff Writer living,” Short said. puter lab in Sutter Hall to generate more With enrollment on the upswing this Not only did student enrollment inbed space. It also added about 100 extra year, University Housing and Food Sercrease from last year, so did the waitlist beds overall, Stephen said. vices is having to adjust to the increased of students seeking housing through the But because the department thrives on demand. university. student demand, it is more than welcomChico State offers both Last school ing to the inon- and off-campus housing year, the waitlist About 85 percent of all creased number to its students. for University of students. first-time freshmen live But because the number Housing was 44 “Our only in university housing. of beds are limited, the students. This source of revenue amount of new students year the waitlist comes from the David Stphen, students that stay enrolling each year is a dejumped to 264 termining factor for people students, said Director of University in University that wish to live in UniverDavid Stephen, Housing,” SteHousing and Food Services sity Housing. director of Uniphen said, “We CHRISTIAN This semester, about versity Housprefer to open at SHORT 17,000 students are enrolled ing and Food full capacity each Freshman business at Chico State, said Sarah Service. semester.” administration major Langford, public affairs “Usually if University coordinator. you’re between 75 to 100 on the Housing offers 2,150 beds at full capacity. In the fall semester, there were about waitlist you might get in, depending on Currently, about 95 percent of the beds 16,000 students. how many people cancel,” Stephen said. are occupied, leaving only 99 beds vacant, “We felt prepared for the jump,” Lang“This year there were more than 600 Stephen said. ford said. “We want to serve as many cancellations.” “We expect next year to be just as students as we possibly can.” The high amount of wait-listed students crowded,” he said. The availability of housing through the this year is due to the larger class of firstuniversity is important to students who year students, Stephen said. Michael Arias can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or may have trouble figuring out a living sit“About 85 percent of all first-time freshuation on their own, said Christian Short, men live in University Housing,” he said. @theorion_news on Twitter. first-year business administration major. In reaction to the larger amount of Michael Arias
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What is the origin of Valentine’s Day? Find out what students think about the day of love and its dark roots. theorion.com/features
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Gypsy Jenn, right, and Anne Stanley celebrate the 25th MasQueerade Ball, hosted by the Stonewall Alliance, with face painting.
NEWS BRIEFS
Vandalism leads to chase down 3rd street At about 5:40 p.m. on Feb. 4, two men vandalizing Chico State property were caught by University Police, who alerted the Chico Police Department. After the suspects realized that they had been seen, one proceeded down Chestnut Street while the other turned down West Third Street, running across the front yard of the Alpha Phi sorority house. “A guy ran across our grass and threw something into our bushes,” Hailey Willingham, an eyewitness and member of Alpha Phi, said. “One guy kept running down Chestnut Street and got away, but police chased the other guy down West Third Street and handcuffed him.” Sgt. Bryce Davison of the University Police Department, who participated in the chase, later confirmed that the object thrown into the bushes of Alpha Phi was a can of spray paint.
fairs on campus cater more to business majors, Troy Cline, professor, said, and that biology majors need to be aware of possible employment positions. The opportunity to learn about their occupational choices can create a future disease epidemiologist like Linda Lewis. Her work has helped discover more than 300 cases of gonorrhea in Butte County. The reported age range of those who have contracted the sexually transmitted disease is between 13 to 60. It’s not just an issue that affects students; it impacts the county. In order to raise awareness and encourage preventive measures, informational packets that include condoms are distributed to the homeless population. A census count will be conducted in order to determine the necessary measures needed to stop the spread of this bacterial growth.
the returns for free. The program is offered for students who have made less than $53,000 in 2014. If students are qualified for these services, they would need to bring the following to the sessions: • • • •
A copy of last year’s tax return Social Security cards Wages and earnings statements Documentation for any deductions or credits • Valid check for direct deposit • Photo identification More free tax preparation sessions will be held on Feb. 14, Feb. 21 and March 7 in the Bell Memorial Union 008 between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. For more information contact Manvir Chahal, a member of Delta Zeta, at csuc.bap. vita@gmail.com.
-Brianne Mcevoy
Sorority recruits learn about charitable efforts
Victim stabbed on Nord Avenue A man was stabbed on Nord Avenue on Saturday night after an altercation. Chico Police Officer Scott Ruppel said that two subjects were involved in a dispute by Star Liquors. Afterward, they made their way to the 500 block of Nord Avenue where the altercation escalated and one of the subjects was stabbed. The victim, who is in serious condition, was taken to Enloe Medical Center where he is currently undergoing surgery for his injuries. “We didn’t hear or see anything,” Pawan Pabbi, owner of Star Liquors, said. “We have security cameras, but there wasn’t any footage of a fight or anything.” If anyone has any information regarding the stabbing please contact the Chico Police Department at (530) 895-4911. -Austin Redfern
Biology fair promotes STD awareness Students of the biological sciences department attended their first career day dedicated to their major on Friday. The science department has felt that job
CORRECTIONS
-Katherine Feaster
Delta Zeta offers free tax preparation for students Chico State’s Delta Zeta chapter of Beta Alpha Psi provided its first day of free tax preparation sessions on Saturday. According to a press release, the accounting club at Chico State, Delta Zeta and the IRS have partnered up to prepare taxes and file
CADEC hosts alcohol, relationship events Chico State’s Campus Alcohol and Drug Education Center prepares for two events leading into Valentine’s Day weekend, focusing on relationship and alcohol awareness. The first one is Sexual Responsibility Week, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 10, 11 and 12. Anyone can stop by CADEC’s table to learn about safe sex practices, alcohol and what it takes to be in a healthy relationship. The second event is entitled ROAR! +1. It is co-sponsored by University Housing and Food Services and Prime Time Productions. This event will be held Wed. Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m. at Sutter Plaza. This event is also open to anyone but will require reservations. There will be dinner held, so tables are limited. For every person who RSVPs, they are allowed to bring a date. During dinner there will a raffle as well as information on how to save a friend’s life during an alcohol emergency. They will also discuss how to speak to someone who is in need due to an issue with alcohol. Evan Thibeau, Senior Peer Educator, said ROAR!’s goal is to, “give fellow wildcats the tools to help each other in an alcohol-related emergency.” Learn how to be a part of the events by going to CADEC’s table next week and make your reservation. -Brittany Mcclintock
Mike Baca has been broadcasting Chico State athletics for 25 years. Read more of his story online. theorion.com/sports
Photo courtesy of Aaron Standish
The married comedy duo tours the North State with their diverse styles of sketch comedy. For their last stop, they spent time with The Orion. theorion.com/arts
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| College of Communication & Education | California State University, Chico | Chico, Ca 95929-0600 CONTACT | EDITORIAL Phone: 530.898.3138 Email: editorinchief@theorion.com
The Orion staff strives for accuracy in all its publishes. We recognize that mistakes will sometimes occur, but we treat every error very seriously. If you feel a correction needs to be made, please email the editor-in-chief at editorinchief@ theorion.com
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-Madeline Merlic
-Courtney Weaver On Saturday, the Panhellenic sororities of Chico State spent the day sharing their philanthropic efforts with the young women going through recruitment week. The day was dedicated to telling the women about what they do to give back to the community. Their charitable works involve organizations of all sorts: diabetes research, Alzheimer’s research, Ronald McDonald House, arthritis organizations, women’s cardiac health and Girls on the Run. According to the Panhellenic Council information brochure, the 2014 Interfraternity and Multicultural Greek council’s donated “over 640 pints of blood, 1,000 cans to Jesus center, $8,797 to the America Cancer Society, $1,500 to Up ‘Til Dawn and $1,400 to the Northern Valley Catholic Social Services.” Many of the chapters have also stayed local and give back to Chico elementary schools and volunteer their time to help repaint the playgrounds.
Opinion columnist Joe Rogers explains different body identifiers for gay men. Otters, foxes and bears are not just names for furry animals. theorion.com/opinion
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WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11, 2015
Student thought of as kind, ambitious Jenice Tupolo
Staff Writer
generosity.” The North State Symphony was created in 2001 following the merger of the Chico and Redding Symphonies. The group puts on performances both in both cities and participates in education outreach programs and chamber concerts. “The North State Symphony is truly a cultural gem benefiting the entire North State region,” Knight said. The North State Symphony celebrated its 100th anniversary recently and has roots dating back to 1905, with the first orchestra formed when the university was called Chico State Normal School.
Friends and family are remembering Melinda Driggers as a compassionate woman who was driven to devote her life to social work as a returning student at Chico State. Driggers, 49, was found unconscious by university staff in the Student Services Center on Jan. 20. Emergency personnel attempted to revive her before she was transported to MELINDA Enloe Medical CenDRIGGERS ter, where she died on Jan. 22, said Joe Wills, Chico State’s director of public affairs. Driggers was born Oct. 27, 1965, and transferred to Chico State as a social work major from Red Bluff. Driggers dealt with many obstacles in her life, including the death of her husband and the process of rebuilding her life and returning to school in her 40s, wrote Chico State sociology professor Marianna Paiva in a post on the website ethnography.com on Jan. 28. “Melinda When I think of never Melinda, I think of comsomeone who was plained very balanced ... and about was here to make a difference. anything though.” Vincent Ornelas, director of Paiva the School of Social Work wrote. “When I mentioned the expense of college, time management issues, difficulty with school schedules, she would watch me intently, smile in a knowing way, then would shake her head slightly, nod in agreement, and go back to writing her class notes. She had been there, done that before.” Memorial services were held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Red Bluff on Jan. 30. Half a dozen students and other attendees overflowed the church, using all available standing space, said Vincent Ornelas, director of the School of Social Work. “When I think of Melinda, I think of somebody who was very balanced,” Ornelas said. “Somebody who had compassion and was here to make a difference.” Driggers is survived by her son Christopher, daughters Isabel and Holly, fiancé Jim Nicholas, and his two children, Jimmy and Jenna. She also leaves behind her parents, June and Ray Mott.
Michael Mcclurg can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or
Jenice Tupolo can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or
@theorion_news on Twitter.
@JayTupolo on Twitter.
Zach Aucella/The Orion
Ali Merchant, junior, tests out the new hydration station in Glenn Hall. The stations have an LED readout that displays the number of plastic bottles that have potentially been removed from use.
Hydration stations quench thirst, sustain environment Elaine Knudsen
Staff Writer
Facilities Management and Services installed two new water bottle fill-up stations over winter break, with the goal of reducing the use of plastic water bottles and creating a more eco-friendly and sustainable campus. The project is in the pilot stage. Whether or not these stations become permanent will rely on feedback from the Chico State community. “Tons of people use reusable water bottles for class and the gym,” said Shea Bertsch, senior psychology major. “It’s a good idea.”
The stations were added to the second and third floors of Glenn Hall, replacing a set of old lockers. They include two new Elkay EZ Green bottle filler and water fountain combination units. Each unit has a high water fill-up rate, enabling students to quickly replenish water bottles during short breaks between classes. Another feature is an LED readout displaying the number of plastic bottles that have potentially been eliminated by using the stations. This gives students an idea of the positive impact that using these stations is having on the environment. Not all students were thrilled with the new
product. “I haven’t really had any thought on them besides the water doesn’t feel as cold,” said Jonathan Torres, business major. According to Facilities Management and Services, two more hydration stations will be installed in the Student Services Center before the end of the semester. The department is collecting feedback on the new stations in order to evaluate their effectiveness. Elaine Knudsen can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or
@theorion_news on Twitter.
Symphony receives $1 million gift Michael Mcclurg
Staff Writer
Two lifelong music lovers have shown their appreciation by giving a $1 million gift to the North State Symphony, a program within Chico State’s College of Humanities and Fine Arts. Robert and Ann Morgan, former owners of Crown Motors in Redding, were lovers of classical music and longtime supporters of the North State Symphony. After Robert Morgan retired in 1994, the couple looked to the North State Symphony as a way to give back to the city that they loved. Robert Morgan died in 2009, followed by Anne last year. Their nephew, Robin Hall, presented the symphony with the $1 million check in December and established
the Robert and Ann Morgan Endowment. “My uncle and aunt were no experts of classical music,” Hall said. “They were music lovers, but most of all they loved the idea that they could have something to do with the cultural nourishment of the city they came to love so much.” The endowment will do a lot to help keep the symphony in business, said Robert Knight, dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts. “This gift will ensure that the citizens of the North State will continue to have a professional orchestra, and that the orchestra can bring in wonderful soloists, perform outreach and bring joy to thousands of school children,” Knight said. “All of us that work to make the symphony a success are deeply grateful for Robert and Ann Morgan’s vision and
Weed: Student medical marijuana users restricted marijuana growing or selling operations,” which conflicted with (then) federal law. Chico officials might face federal repercussions for allowing medical usage, and thus the Chico Police Officers Association chose to disregard the new ordinance, still enforcing federal law prohibiting marijuana in all forms and uses, said Will Clark, spokesman for the police union. However, two months into the new year, the Chico Police Department’s website was updated to describe the intent to protect medicinal marijuana client’s rights, while emphasizing the place where use is prohibited. This leaves Chico students with the ability to smoke medicinal marijuana within their personal residences, so long as these
do not infringe within a 1000-feet perimeter of Chico State. For students living in residence housing, marijuana is prohibited within student halls, with a one-strike policy for getting kicked out. Alcohol follows a similar twostrike rule, even for 21-year-old residents. Medicinal marijuana laws allow people of a legal age to possess and use weed for health reasons, but the use can only occur in a personal residence. Conflicts between a student’s legal rights and location limitations in the law create a problem for those living within 1000 feet of campus. William Rein/The Orion
William Rein can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or
A sign posted at a house on West First Avenue warns marijuana users to not use the property to smoke weed.
@theorion_news on Twitter.
STDs: Gonorrhea cases doubled in last year in Butte County
2011 2012 2013 2014
“One method isn’t going to work,” she said. It is important to use different methods to get the word out to difof gonnorohea ferent age groups. It is shocking how little people know and how strongly some people believe they won’t contract an STD, Almaguer said. “People, especially kids, think they are invincible to stuff like that,” Alex of gonnorohea Horne, Chico State sophomore business major, said. Some students have received a limited amount of gonnorohea of sex educa-
49 cases
69 cases
143 cases
tion, in their own estimation. “I went to a private Christian high school,” Horne said. “Sex was wrong.” Some schools separate boys and girls and briefly cover the basics of sex education, but that often leaves students clueless about what contracting an STD like gonorrhea entails, said Jeff Guzman, sophomore. Gonorrhea will usually be symptom-free, which is why it’s important to get tested. Symptoms usually include a burning sensation during urination and abnormal genital pain or discharge. People who have had one or more partners are susceptible to gonorrhea. The Butte County Public Health Department recommends anyone at risk be tested and encourage any partners to get tested as well. In Chico, nearly 20 clinic options are available for people to receive low-cost to free testing. For example, the public health
300 cases
of gonnorohea
center on Oleander Avenue offers same-day tests that are confidential. When people are sexually active, wearing a condom is the best way to prevent contracting STDs. Outlets such as condomfinder.org help people find locations where they can get condoms for free based on their zip codes. Chico State’s Student Health Center and the Gender and Sexuality Equity Center provide condoms free of charge. It is important that people who test positive notify their partners. For those who are too embarrassed to let their partner know they may have been exposed to an STD, outlets such as dontspreadit.com will send a free and anonymous message, Almaguer said. Any clinics that test for STDs also offer a low-cost, one-time treatment method that usually is a single oral dose of antibiotics. “If you are a sexually-active person and you can’t wear a condom, talk with your partner and get tested,” Almaguer said. “You shouldn’t be having sex.” Whitney Urmann can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or
@WUrmann on Twitter. Map courtesy of Monica Fitch
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NEWS
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11
POLICE
Call Type: Welfare Check Monday, 11:56 a.m. Legion Avenue “White female wearing a hat laying down on Arcadian and Legion Avenue, decided to take a nap in that spot. No further assistance needed.” Call Type: Graffiti Tuesday, 8:00 a.m. Butte Hall “Found graffiti again on the third floor hallway. No further action was taken.” Call Type: Non Injury Hit and Run Tuesday, 10:49 a.m. Parking Structure 2 “A white Ford Ranger was hit on the fourth floor of the parking structure on Normal Avenue. There was damage to the right rear, but no one got hurt.” Call Type: Burglary Sunday, 4:22 p.m., Cherry St. “Occured in parking structure. The door of a white Dodge Charger was broken and a laptop and backpack were taken from the car.” Call Type: Suspicious Subject Sunday, 9:29 p.m., Arcadian Ave. “Reporting person says she was in Aymer J. Hamilton Hall and heard a male voice, but unable to locate.” Call Type: Narcotics Violation Sunday, 10:45 p.m., Whitney Hall. “Only smell, no actual proof of drugs. University Housing will handle it further.”
Chico Police
University Police
The police blotter is a selection of information cited directly from Chico Police Department and University Police Department.
Call Type: Suspicious Suspect Monday, 9:29 a.m. University Village “Two white female adults on foot near car with tires slashed, beige-colored coupe or sedan. Sedan had a blow-out and pulled into UV to change tire.”
BLUE and
BLOTTER Call Type: Graffiti Monday, 9 a.m. Physical Science Building “Southeast corner of Physical Science Building with silver spray paint “slick” “yoha$.”
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Call Type: Possible Drug Activity Monday, 10:51 a.m. Mangrove Avenue “Group of four transients at Radio Shack. Subjects on back loading deck, believed to be shooting heroin. Shipment coming in soon, employees not comfortable contacting group under these circumstances.”
! w e n s y a w l a d n a
THE BLOTTER JUST GOT BETTER.
Call Type: Suspicious Suspect Monday, 6:42 a.m. Cherry Street “Woman reports an unknown person standing by her front window. Believes they are using her cell phone to put images on her TV. Subject has been outside for last hour. Same call yesterday was determined to be unfounded.” Call Type: Assault/Battery Tuesday, 10:07 a.m. Amanda Way “Victim went to her mom’s house to ask for money for her popped tire. Her mother then swung at her and puller her hair. The victim told police to talk to her but that she wasn’t pressing charges. After talking to the police, the mother insisted that the victim tried to enter her house and she was only protecting herself. The police called the victim back to inform her to stay away from the house and the victim agreed commenting that her mother is crazy.” Call Type: Assault/Battery Tuesday, 2:42 p.m. Lassen Avenue “Victim reported that her niece beat her up after she was trying to keep her away from her brother. Niece became verbal and tried to leave upon abusing the victim. The victim is looking at putting a restraining order on her niece.” Call Type: Threats Wednesday, 2:48 p.m., Marigold Avenue “The father of a second grade student threatened to hit a 10-year-old boy ‘ten times harder’ than when the boy accidentally hit the man’s son with a basketball two weeks prior.”
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Wednesday, February 11, 2015
EDITORIAL
Gonorrhea epidemic should spur STD testing An epidemic has been declared in Butte County. Three hundred cases of gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease, were reported in 2014. This is more than double the number of cases that were reported in 2013. It is considered an epidemic because of the dramatic increase of cases in such a short amount of time. In 2012, only 69 cases reported. About half of those infected were people between the ages of 14 and 25. Given that the majority of Chico State students are between the ages of 18 and 22, it’s likely, if not probable, that some of these cases are Chico State students. What is this, the ’80s? Contracting the clap, a common slang term for gonorrhea, is completely preventable by abstaining from sex. But given the age of most Chico State students, abstaining from sex is unlikely, and for some, impossible. However, wearing a condom is a simple solution that can reduce, although not fully eliminate, the risk of transmitting STDs. And guess what? The Student Health Center gives them out for free. So does the Gender and Sexuality Equity Center. The center also provides non-latex condoms for students who may be allergic. That gives students few valid excuses to not use condoms. But don’t condoms make sex less enjoyable? No, they don’t. A nationwide American study found that men and women found safe sex to be just as “highly arousing and pleasurable” as unprotected sex. There is little reason why a person would forgo using a condom and risk contracting an STD, especially given that there are an estimated 19 million new infections in the U.S. every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Condoms seem like a much better alternative to genital, throat or rectum infections, all of which can be caused by gonorrhea. And if untreated, it can also cause sterility. Gonorrhea is largely symptom-free. So even if someone’s genitals don’t burn when they pee, they could still have gonorrhea. If students have had one or more sexual partners, they are responsible for getting tested and for encouraging their partners to get tested. Nearly 20 clinic options in Chico are available for students to receive testing, and some are free. It is important for Chico State students to be informed about sex education. It is always possible for a sexually active individual to contract an STD, even if they use a condom. No one is invincible. The unsigned Orion editorial is the collaborative opinion of the editorial board.
Trevor Moore/The Orion
Coming home but left behind Megan Mann
Opinion Columnist I’m just going to come right out and address the elephant in the room. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a real monster and big problem for members of the military. It is not battle fatigue or some screwed-up side effect of honor, but a horrible aftermath of war or other traumatic events. Victims of this mental health condition normally suffer in silence with symptoms such as reliving their traumatic experiences, negative changes in mood or attitude and feeling jittery. These symptoms continue until the afflicted person gets help. If they don’t, they may become violent and harm themselves or others. By now, everyone’s heard of Chris Kyle. “American Sniper,” the movie about his life, has been in theaters for almost a month now. Kyle was a Navy SEAL sniper who found himself having trouble adjust-
ing to life back home after four tours in Iraq. After writing the autobiography the movie is based on, he began helping fellow veterans with their transition back into civilian life. Unfortunately, he was allegedly murdered by one of the very men he was trying to help. This man, who goes on trial next week for the murder of Kyle and his friend, was reportedly suffering from PTSD when Kyle took him to a shooting range in an effort to help him deal with the side effects. While I hate to speak ill of the dead, that probably wasn’t the smartest decision on Kyle’s part since the noises and atmosphere of the shooting range is most likely what set the man off. While movies like “American Sniper” are opening more people’s eyes to PTSD, it’s often still a taboo subject for people coming home from the military. They’ve been taking care of themselves and their country for a long time, so it’s hard for them to ask
for help when they need it because they’ve always had to be the strong ones. As a country, America needs to try to break away from this idea of leaving its soldiers behind. Especially if they’re silently suffering in their own personal hells because it’s not considered strong to admit defeat and ask for help. This stigma needs to be eradicated so this country’s military veterans can get the help they need before it’s too late. Places like the Department of Veterans Affairs, the American Legion and even Chico State’s own Office of Veterans Affairs are there to help once soldiers are ready to come forward. But until America starts to take notice of this problem, its troops will continue to return home only to be left behind. Megann Mann can be reached at
opinioneditor@theorion.com or @meganisthemann on Twitter.
ILLUSTRATION: TIGHTEN THE KNOT
Madison Holmes/The Orion
Thumbs up to the Chico State men’s basketball team for maintaining their position at the top spot of the conference following their defeat of the UC San Diego Tritons with a final score of 72-64.
Thumbs down to Valentine’s Day. The only good part about this consumerist holiday will going to Walgreens on Saturday and buying all of the discounted, heart-shaped Reese’s.
Thumbs up to the Grammy awards. It’s the best time of year to be critical of celebrites. No matter that they are better looking and have more money than us little people watching.
Thumbs down to Brian Williams lying about being shot at in Iraq. Maybe “the fog of memory” will cause NBC viewers to forget about this little incident. Good luck filling in his tiny shoes, Lester.
theorion.com/opinion | Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015 | A7
COMIC
Being single not a deadly disease Allison Galbreath
Opinion Columnist
With Valentine’s Day approaching, there’s a lot of pressure to find that special someone. Nagging reminders pop up constantly, from all the pink and red that’s slathered everywhere to all the deals on flowers, chocolate and gifts for your partner. And even to friends that all seem to be in relationships. How could anyone stand to be single during such a time? It’s the season of love. And it’s everywhere. Yet, the pressure doesn’t go away once Valentine’s Day does. It seems all year there are reminders and pressures, especially from friends and family that always ask if there’s a special someone yet. And a mixture of shock and horror crosses their faces when you tell them “no.” Why is there so much pressure to always be in a committed relationship? Such a stigma attaches itself to someone who is single or just dating around, or perhaps isn’t interested in finding someone. Just think of all those chick flicks where the entire goal of the movie is for the girl to finally find the guy. And once she does, her life is complete. These female characters are so unhappy the entire time they’re single. And if they’re not? They just don’t yet know how miserable they really are. It feels like people are constantly defining others by their relationship status, especially women. It’s like someone’s worth is attached
to whether or not someone else likes them. And if there’s not that special someone? They must be lonely, sexually frustrated or repellent in some way. Personally, I choose to be single. And I enjoy it. Actually, I prefer it — especially during college. As a full-time student with a part-time job, I barely have enough time to get all my work done in a week, let alone the time to maintain a healthy relationship with someone. In all honesty, I’m selfish right now. I don’t want to compromise my free time. At least the free time that I actually get. Since I have so little of it, I want to spend it how I want. And if I ever get lonely and want to go out? Well, that’s what my friends are for. Besides, being single has allowed me to really understand myself, which I think is really important to know before entering a relationship. It sounds cliche, but it’s true. I’ve had time to really understand what I like and dislike — what I do and don’t want. I know who I am and what my goals are. I’m happy for those who have found that special someone. I think it’s great. But being single should not be treated like an affliction that needs to be fixed. Some choose to be single, and some just casually date and enjoy it. They shouldn’t feel defective because of it. Allison Galbreath can be reached at
opinioneditor@theorion.com or @agalbreath19 on Twitter.
Darian Maroney/The Orion
Invest in students to survive water woes Dylan de Wit
Opinion Columnist The California drought is so bad. “How bad is it?” Oh, no, this isn’t a joke. It’s just really, really bad. Matter of fact it’s only getting worse. Sorry, no punch line here. Just sad depictions of California’s worsening water crisis. Despite a stormy December, Northern California experienced its driest January in history. Wells across the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys have gone dry, where entire agricultural communities find themselves with little to no water. And with the snowpack in the Sierra Nevada at about 25 percent of its normal amount, this drought won't be going away any time soon. What does that mean? California is the nation’s top agricultural state, the world’s fifth-largest supplier of food and the ninth-largest economy in the world. Butte County is no different, with agriculture being a $7.1 million business. So without water, we have an issue. So why has California only employed shortterm answers for this long-term problem? Voters in last year's midterm elections passed Proposition 1, which authorized the state to sell $7.1 billion worth of bonds for water projects across the state. Seems like a lot, right? The only problem — that probably won't be enough. The recent water bond falls short when
it comes to real solutions, said Barbara Barrigan-Parrilla, executive director of the conservation campaign Restore the Delta. “Proposition 1 really doesn't do anything to address the problems in the current drought," she said. "It shortchanges sustainable water programs.” Approaching the current drought means committing to implementing long-term efforts through innovation in agriculture. That can be a daunting task, but nobody is better poised to make a difference than our state’s college students. I met with some agriculture majors on campus and asked them: “With the education you’ve received, are you going to be prepared to enter agriculture in our current drought?” After I asked, there was an obvious air of uncertainty. The group members hesitated.
methods the agriculture deion partment and Or e its faculty have h /T an taught to prepare m uff students to succeed sH ile M with a drought at hand. “I feel like the instructors are trying their best to turn in the direction of sustainability and conservation,” Maupin said. “But they just don’t have any specific programs for it yet.” You know why? Because there’s no funding for that. Expanding university programs is an expensive task. Even if Chico State’s College of Agriculture wanted to create a curriculum that was research and project-based so that students and professors could focus on creating inno-
vative ways to grow in a severe drought, they most likely wouldn’t be able to afford it. That’s why California and the CSU system need to move away from funding battles and increased tuition threats and instead cooperatively work toward providing students with the opportunity to make a difference in California’s agriculture economy. To curb the nation’s shortage of primary care physicians, scholarship programs were created to help medical students get the education they needed to serve in a demanding market. So with a drought that continues to devastate communities across the state, why should California’s future farmers and agricultural researchers be treated any differently? The state needs to commit itself to investing in the future. That means the students and faculty of California's colleges. Research grants, program expansion and scholarships will ensure that students are prepared to make a difference in agricultural communities. As of now, our state’s future is bleak, and the only way for California to survive is to invest in the passion and abilities of the members of college agriculture programs. Dylan de Wit can be reached at
opinioneditor@theorion.com or @DylanTdeWit on Twitter.
COMMENTS OF THE WEEK
TALKING POINT
Miles Huffman/ The Orion
“I really hope so," said Harlee Maupin, a member of Chico State’s agricultural sorority, Sigma Alpha. Me too. I asked what
It’s time for Chico State students to start looking for housing for next year. Check out The Orion’s special insert where writers weigh in on the good, the bad and the ugly of off campus housing. From sucuessfully living with a best friend, to no longer having a best friend, The Orion has it covered.
In response to the features story “Let’s be frank: Chico State relishes Crazy Dog” by Claire Martinez: “Best Hot Dog in town!” -David Spiers on theorion.com
In response to the opinion column “Millennials transcend their entitled reputation” by Miles Inserra: “When parents don’t allow thier kids’ hands to get dirty or egos to get bruised a little they help establish a bubble of entitlement. They are not doing the kids a favor. ”
-Mel Cooley on theorion.com
A8 | Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015 | advertisements
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ONLINE: Full recap of the weekend’s games for both Chico State basketball teams.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
B1
theorion.com/sports
BASKETBALL
Keepin’ it Fresh
39% 10.1 29.3
3-point shooting
POINTS PER GAME
MINUTES PER GAME First-year guard excels on court, seizes chance to lead offense Nick Martinez
Staff Writer It might seem intimidating to lead a team’s offense as a newcomer, especially playing a different position, but first-year guard Whitney Branham is making it look easy. Branham played shooting guard in high school but made the transition to point guard for the ’Cats this season. She has been a nice surprise for the Wildcats and is succeeding the way the team hoped she would, said head coach Brian Fogel, Branham has started all 18 games this season and is tied for the most assists on the team. She is also second in three-pointers and tied for second in points. “She’s done a really nice job of growing and developing,” Fogel said, “I just think she gets better every time she takes the floor.” Learning a new position presents new challenges. Playing point guard is by the far is the hardest position to play, and it requires physical and mental toughness, Fogel said. Branham is a quiet person and being vocal is one of the challenges she needs to overcome, she said. “I’m always going to have more to learn and more things to improve on,” Branham said. “ But I’m really proud of myself for stepping up and finally getting the idea of being talkative.” Another thing that she needs to get better at is reading the defense and creating more opportunities for her teammates, she said. In addition to all the pressures, Branham is also stepping into the spot left by former Wildcat standout, Courtney Hamilton. Hamilton graduated last spring, finishing second in all-time assists and sixth in the most blocked shots in Chico State’s history. Branham has the potential to fill the shoes she left behind, Hamilton said. “It’s a really big deal being a freshman and starting on a college team,” she said. “Point guard on the court really runs everything so (Branham) could definitely be great at that.” Branham’s ability to take Hamilton’s place is not a concern, but the goal is for her reach her own full potential, Fogel said. Branham’s work ethic is what stood out to Fogel while he was recruiting her, he said. In her senior year at West Ranch High School in Santa Clarita, she averaged 27.7 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. After graduating high school, the community and philosophy of the Chico State team is what appealed to her when choosing what college to attend, Branham said In a season where the ’Cats find themselves with a losing record, the future success of the team will be largely dependent on the young players who are gaining experience. Branham is one of six first-year players on the team. This core group of young players will grow together and develop a strong chemistry, Branham said. “It’s always going to take time when you have new players come in,” she said, “It was definitely an adjustment and a learning curve we had to step up to.” Nick Martinez can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or
@THENickMartinez on Twitter.
Photo by Gustavo Ornelas/The Orion
B2 | Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015 | theorion.com/sports
Wildcat Week
of the Tanner Giddings
Giddings, who is playing in his first season with the ’Cats after transferring from Fresno State, has been one of the team’s most serviceable big men this season. He matched his career high last Friday with 16 points to help Chico State get a win against UC San Diego. Giddings has slowly increased his productivity the last few weeks and is averaging a respectable 7.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per game.
TANNER GIDDINGS
Class: Junior Major: Economics
Sport: Basketball Position: Center
Caio Calado/ The Orion
Tanner Giddings tips off against a UC San Diego opponent Friday.
STAT ’CAT
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT Men’s Basketball
0
WEEKEND PERFORMANCE
2-0
(Baseball and Softball) Both the baseball and softball teams played no games this past weekend, after both teams’ season openers were canceled due to the storm.
1 (Men’s Basketball) The ’Cats beat Cal Poly Pomona to take sole possession of first place in the conference on Saturday.
The Chico State men’s basketball team is now the conference’s top dog after going 2-0 for the weekend. The ’Cats beat UC San Diego on Friday, with a final score of 72-64. Junior center Tanner Giddings scored 16 points for the game to match his career high. The ’Cats may have won their biggest game of the 2015 regular season after beating Cal Poly Pomona on Saturday to decide who would take the conference’s top seed. Sophomore guard Robert Duncan scored 19 points in both games. Chico State is now 13-3 in the conference with a 16-5 overall record. Both wins have extended the team’s winning streak to nine.
Gustavo Ornelas/The Orion
Point gaurd, Robert Duncan, maneuvers around UC San Diego opponents. The team has fought hard for its top spot in the conference this season and continue to improve.
Women’s Basketball WEEKEND PERFORMANCE
1-1
19 (Women’s Basketball) Whitney Branham matched her career high on Friday with 19 points against UC San Diego.
20.4 (Men’s Basketball) Robert Duncan has been averaging 20.4 points in the past three games to help the ’Cats’ extend their nine game winning streak.
Malik Payton/The Orion
Chico State player Annie Ward charges forward to the basket in the second half of the game Friday Jan. 30 in Acker Gym.
The Chico State women’s basketball team went 1-1 over the weekend and is currently sitting eighth place in the conference. The team kicked off the weekend on a high note, beating UC San Diego on Friday to snap a two game losing streak. The ’Cats registered their highest scoring first half of the season against the Tritons. First year guard Whitney Branham scored 19 points to match her career high during the game. The following night, the ’Cats had to go against Cal Poly Pomona and the team’s All-American senior, Jada Blackwell. The Broncos dominated the ’Cats, with a final score of 72-57. The team will have to find a way to right their ship when they go on a four game road trip that starts against Cal State Bernardino on Thursday.
-Compiled by Jose Olivar
MORE ON THEORION.COM/SPORTS For live updates, follow along on Twitter @theorion_sports.
STANDINGS
MEN’S BASKETBALL
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
CHICO STATE Cal Poly Pomona Cal State Sanislaus UC San Diego Cal State San Bernardino Humboldt State Sonoma State Cal State Monterey Bay Cal State L.A. San Francisco State Cal State East Bay Cal State Dominguez Hills
CCAA 13-3 12-4 11-5 10-6 10-6 9-7 8-8 6-10 6-10 6-10 3-13 2-14
Overall 16-5 16-5 14-7 12-8 10-9 15-7 11-9 10-12 8-12 8-12 5-17 6-16
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Humboldt State Cal State Dominguez Hills Cal Poly Pomona Cal State San Bernardino UC San Diego Cal State East Bay Cal State L.A. CHICO STATE Cal State Sanislaus Sonoma State Cal State Monterey Bay San Francisco State
CCAA 14-2 14-2 13-3 11-5 10-6 9-7 8-8 5-11 4-12 4-12 4-12 0-16
Overall 18-3 19-5 15-5 15-5 12-9 14-8 9-11 8-12 6-14 6-14 6-15 0-20
UPCOMING GAMES
MEN’S BASKETBALL WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Thursday. Feb. 12
Cal State San Bernadino 7:30 P.M. in San Bernadino
Saturday, Feb. 14 Humbolt State 7:30 P.M. in Arcata
Friday, Feb. 20 Sonoma State 7:30 P.M.in Rohnert Park
Thursday, Feb. 12
Cal State San Bernadino 5:30 P.M. in San Bernadino
Saturday, Feb. 14 Humbolt State
5:30 P.M. in Arcata
Friday, Feb. 20 Sonoma State
5:30 P.M. in Rohnert Park
BASEBALL Friday, Feb. 13
Fresno Pacific University 2 P.M. in Nettleton Stadium
Saturday, Feb. 14 Fresno Pacific University 11 A.M. & 2 P.M. in Fresno
Friday, Feb. 20
Cal State Stanislaus 6 P.M. in Turlock
SOFTBALL
Thursday, Feb. 12 Hawaii-Hilo
12 P.M. & 2 P.M. in Acker Gym
Sunday, Feb., 15 Southern Oregon
12 P.M. & 2 P.M. in Acker Gym
Friday, Feb. 20 Cal State East Bay 12 P.M. & 2 P.M. in Acker Gym
Saturday, Feb. 21 Cal State East Bay 12 P.M. & 2 P.M. in Acker Gym
theorion.com/sports | Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015| B3
Scandals abound in NFL as Goodell flounders Kevin Lucena
Staff Writer
Christina Saschin/The Orion
Riders pedal on in this year’s Paskenta Ride that takes place every year on Super Bowl Sunday. Riders bike 100 miles of gravel and asphalt towards the finish line, some riding leisurely while others vie to be the first across the finish line.
Cyclists flock to annual Paskenta Ride, speed on Karsten Kaufmann
Staff Writer
The first Sunday of February was about more than just football for many Northern California cyclists. Hundreds of riders flocked to the One Mile Recreation Area parking lot on the morning of Feb. 2 for the the annual Paskenta Ride. What started in 1981 as a way to burn off calories in anticipation of Super Bowl Sunday grub has evolved into a tradition for hundreds of cyclists throughout the North State. The bike race is just over 100 miles in length and contains 1,400 feet of climbing. Riders start in Chico and head north towards Corning, then west through the small town of Paskenta. After a five-mile gravel section, those still on their bikes make their way to Highway 32, where they ride into Chico through Orland. Karsten Kaufmann/The Orion The finish line, marked by a thin strip Racer Matt Abrahamian said he grew his “skenta stache” so the goddess of the of pink tape, sits on West Sacramento gravel (Hilda) would grant him safe passage over the rougher terrain in the race. Avenue, about two miles west from Nord Avenue. to kick off the racing season, Cox said. platform with “skenta” engraved on the The ride costs nothing to the partici“It’s just developed a reputation,” he side. pants and serves as a good training tool said. “Riders think it’s a great way to Despite it’s long history, the winner’s for the competitive racers. start off the season.” trophy made it clear that this was not a The event started out as a small group This year’s winner was Chris Harlandtraditional cycling race. of people wanting to do a long ride during Dunaway from the Herbalife p/b Marc-Pro the morning beStrava team, one of the Karsten Kaufmann can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or fore settling down most established amaPaskenta is pretty and watching teur cycling clubs in the @theorion_sports on Twitter legendary as far as the football game country. NorCal lore. later in the day, He conquered the 100said Rodney Cox, mile course in just under coordinator of the Chris Harland-Dunaway, four hours and 18 minGo online to see a video highlighting ride. race winner utes, averaging 24 mph. cyclists on the day of the Paskenta Ride. Since then, it’s “Paskenta is pretty only caught wind. legendary as far as NorCal “It’s just a good lore.” Harland-Dunaway ride” said Andy said. “It has this gravel Garzoli, a junior at Chico State. “It’s one section that’s technical and really hard to of few free centuries you can do. It’s also ride. It has that ‘spring classics’ feel like very flat, which is a rare thing. You really the cobbles in Belgium.” can’t get a hundred miles in without havAfter Harland-Dunaway caught his ing tons of climbing in it.” breath, Cox presented him with the winThe event attracts a wide variety of ner’s trophy — a small mural made up of skill levels. Some people see it as a leisure old bike cogs, rocks from the gravel and ride, while others use it as a training tool broken pedometers glued onto a wooden
ON THEORION.COM
You know what really sucks? That was a great Super Bowl and a great end to the football season. In the aftermath of the game, fans were questioning Pete Carroll’s decision to throw the ball, which resulted in a last-second interception by the Patriots. The play took the focus off the NFL’s troubled commissioner, Roger Goodell, for a brief moment. All the media could seem to talk about in the two weeks leading up to the Super Bowl was Deflategate. Who would have thought that we would see ESPN analysts going on about subjects like pounds per square inch, shrinkage and the proper inflation of a football. The NFL’s “in-depth” investigation found a lead suspect, one of the Patriots’ ball boys. From that, we also know that it takes roughly 90 seconds to disappear from camera and deflate 11 out of 12 game balls. Or maybe the time it takes to stop and take a piss on the way to the field. Goodell has been leading the NFL as commissioner since replacing Paul Tagliabue in 2006. He also may be a robot, built by the owners to act as their puppet and face the media. His year of hell started when the NFL made a mess of handling the Ray Rice domestic abuse incident. Questions still remain unanswered as to what Goodell knew, and when he knew it. When questioned by reporters on the subject, Goodell said he was not aware of what happened inside the elevator. It’s hard to believe the leader of a billion dollar industry couldn’t make a phone call and get that video before making his decision. It was the same kind of defense Goodell said was unacceptable when he suspended the New Orleans Saints’ head coach Sean Payton for his role in the Bountygate scandal, when team members were awarded money for injuring opposing players. Who knew a robot could be so hypocritical? Then in a true example of his power, Goodell and the NFL had the NBC broadcast crew read a prepared statement on the Mueller report. During a suspiciously long timeout in the AFC divisional-round playoff game, the camera focused on Goodell and his wife in the crowd as Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth both commended Goodell’s handling of the Rice incident. Going forward, Goodell and the NFL have many questions to answer. Are the people who cover the NFL nothing more than puppets for Goodell to speak through? Why was there more coverage of Deflategate than there was of the Rice scandal and other domestic abuse issues? Did Jed York and the NFL just con the citizens of California into building a new billion-dollar stadium right before cutting costs on the team and raking in the revenue? Are Jerry Jones’ eyes too far apart? Who really knows what a concussion is — does Julian Edelman? Kevin Lucena can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or
@klucena824 on Twitter.
Giants’ trophy tour swings by Chico, draws big crowds Dariush Azmoudeh
Sports Designer
Thousands of San Francisco Giants fans gathered at Aaron Ray Clark Memorial Field House on Jan. 31 to bask in the glory of the team’s three recent World Series trophies. The event brought out clusters of fans dressed in orange and black from around the Chico area to take part in the Giants’ World Championship Trophy Tour. Spectators covered the outside parking lot of the building and stretched far into the nearby grass field, doubling the number of attendees from the last time the trophy was in town. “Last time we didn’t even make it to the grass, and we’re well past that grass section,” said Erin Gonzales, recreation supervisor at the Chico Area Recreation and Park District. About 1,500 people were present the last time the Giants came to Chico, but this year the number of attendees reached about 3,000, Gonzales said. The doors of the gymnasium were set to open at 2 p.m. to allow fans in, but people started lining up outside as early as 6 a.m., according to Gonzales. Chico State senior Kyle Fales said that he arrived at noon to wait for his chance to see the trophies for the first time.
Trevor Ryan/The Orion
The San Francisco Giants’ World Series championship trophies on display at Aaron Ray Clark Memorial Field House in Chico on Jan. 31. Thousands of fans showed up at the event to get a glimpse of and take photos with the trophies. “I’m excited,” he said. “I went to the actual NLDS game when they clinched (the Series). So it was pretty exciting to see the entire process run out. And now I get to see the trophy here in Chico.” The tour came to Chico because of the city’s Junior Giants program, Gonzales said.
The program provides free summer baseball to kids ranging from kindergarten through the seventh grade. Fans at the event who donated a minimum of $2 to the program received a commemorative Giants button. The tour marks the third time in five years that the World Series trophy has
come to Chico, mirroring the Giants’ championship success. The previous trophy visits were in 2011 at the City Plaza and in 2013 at Aaron Ray Clark Memorial Field House, the same location for this year’s visit. The tour makes its way throughout various cities in California with one stop each in Nevada, Oregon and New York. While this marked the first time most fans got to see the trophies in person, some make a point of never missing one of these stops. “It gets better and better every single time,” Chico State first-year Genevieve Erisman said. Erisman was a high school students when she attended the trophy tour stops in 2011 and 2013. “It went real quick, but I could feel the magic in the trophies,” Karen Erisman, Erisman’s mother, said. Genevieve Erisman said she expects to be back in two years, following the trend the Giants have set in recent years of winning the World Series every two years. Her mother hopes to see a break in the trend and be back to see the trophy next year. Dariush Azmoudeh can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or @dari_d on Twitter.
B4 | Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015 | theorion.com/sports
Wildcats change up the terrain ’Cats trade dirt, hills for smooth ground with transition to track Breanna Barnard
Staff Writer
Runners on your mark. Get set. Bang. The switch over from cross-country to track and field season is quickly creeping up. With both the Wildcat men’s and women’s cross-country teams placing in the NCAA Championships this past fall, the ’Cats are ready to bring their energy into track and Zach Aucella/The Orion field competition. Julie Finn, Chico State junior, sets up for the 1500 meter during practice. Wildcat athletes change with the All the work the team accomplished in the fall will hopefully follow through into the track season, making seasons as they get ready to make the switch from cross-country to track and field this spring. for more capable and stronger athletes, said Gary Towne, head distance and cross-country coach. “It’s so nice to see the athletes shine and the opportu“Both are fantastic,” she said. “Cross-country is a little The differences between cross-country and track are nity to merge,” he said. more team directed because we’re scored as a team. With the numerous amounts of laps around the track, while Runners can be seen practicing at Bidwell Park track, we mix in with the throwers, sprinters, jumpers. cross-country has different courses for runners to race on, throughout cross-country season. While preparing for Our team is one big unit.” Towne said. track and field, the team spends time on Participating in cross-country has helped Watt prepare Sophomore Falco DiGiallospeed-related workouts to focus on the for track season because she has the advantage of having nardo, who runs the 1500- and shorter distances they compete in. competed in the fall, she said. It’s going to be exciting 5000-meter races, said that he The team has also been spending more “Cross-country gives you a good base,” Watt said. to see what we can agrees with Towne on the diftime in the weight room, Towne said. “Going from super-high mileage, we come into the track accomplish both ference between the two. Assistant coach Sean Smith put toseason with a lot more behind us.” individually and as we “It’s smoother on the track, gether a weight training program with The cross-country runners had just a two-week break begin to pull things and you don’t have to worry the athletes that they have been working once their season was over in December to begin training about hills,” DiGiallonardo on to prepare for the season. for track. The team has been practicing for the past couple together for the team. said. Sophomore Ryan Rampoldi was of months to prepare for spring competition. Different terrains play a big injured during his cross-country season, Towne said he is looking to help his athletes develop Gary Towne, cross-country coach part when it comes to running. as was DiGiallonardo. Injuries prevented and become stronger. He wants to bring the accomplishTrack athletes can go faster the two runners from competing during ments from cross-country onto the track. due to the flat surfaces, DiGialthe cross-country season, but they are “It’s going to be exciting to see what we can accomplish lonardo said. excited for the track season and the opportunity to break both individually and as we begin to pull things together In cross-country, a top seven runners stand out on both some personal records, they said. for the team,” Towne said. the men’s and women’s side and represent the team in School record breaker for the 800-meter race, junior Olmeets. The athletes who are not in the top seven have the ivia Watt, who finished off her cross-country season with Breanna Barnard can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or opportunity in track and field to showcase their skills, the 5k and a personal record of 18:09, said she enjoys the Towne said. different aspects cross-country and track have to offer. @beeebarnyardd on Twitter.
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ONLINE: Four things single people can think about other than being solo on Valentine’s Day.
B5
theorion.com/features
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
HOLIDAY MEMORIES
Valentine’s Day Expectations vs. Reality
Blaine Ball
Staff Writer
As Valentine’s Day nears, Chico State students prep themselves for the holiday by reflecting on some of their past experiences. Dating back to the fifth century, Valentine’s Day has challenged many to provide their significant others with flowers, chocolate and memories. We asked Chico State students to highlight the expectations some have for the holiday and the inconsistent realities that may follow by sharing their stories.
Taylor Severino, first-year undeclared major, had a dramatic experience during her last Valentine’s Day. This year, she hopes that she and her boyfriend learn from that mistake, she said.
2014 VALENTINE’S DAY EXPECTATION: “Last year I didn’t expect much from my boyfriend, but I knew he was going to do something special for me, or at least try,” she said.
REALITY: “After school, he brought me to his house, and I was immediately flattered by the decorated table full of flowers,” she said. “Despite never tasting anything he had personally made, I realized he wanted to stay in and cook for me, which seemed like a great idea.” “He proceeded to go into the kitchen to cook while I played some music in the living room. The food smelled delicious at first, but I began to smell and notice smoke expanding throughout the house. I yelled to my boyfriend but heard no response. “Apparently during his bathroom break, a towel he had been using caught fire on top of the stove. “My first reaction was to scream his name, and while doing so my boyfriend ran out of the bathroom to see what had happened. He grabbed the fire extinguisher from the garage and luckily took care of the minor fire. “Once we calmed down and realized the food had been completely ruined, we ordered Chinese food and called it a night.””
2015 VALENTINE’S DAY EXPECTATIONS: “We always laugh about what happened last year, and it’s a fun story to tell. But he and I are definitely going out to eat this time,” she said.
Maxwell Sciarini, first-year political science major, had a Valentine’s Day experience last year that didn’t go as well as he expected. However, this year, he hopes to live that experience again, he said.
2014 VALENTINE’S DAY EXPECTATION: “All I expected (for Valentine’s Day) was a nice night with my girlfriend,” he said. “I had planned for us to go see a movie and head to dinner after. She and I hadn’t been dating for very long, so I wanted to make a good impression on a day I considered important.”
REALITY: “My girlfriend’s parents apparently had their own special night planned and left her with babysitting duties,” he said. “We stayed in with her little brother and watched “Frozen” for the 100th time in three months. We sang along to the catchy songs until they fell asleep together on the couch. “Despite the night not going as planned, I had a good time and made a great impression.”
2015 VALENTINE’S DAY EXPECTATION: “Now I’m single and just looking for a movie buddy,” he said. “If anyone is interested in sharing a pizza and watching ‘Fifty Shades of Grey,’ hit me up.”
Michaela Leonard, sophomore physical education major, has many bad memories associated with Valentine’s Day. This year, she hopes for the best as she enters the holiday with a new boyfriend, she said. .
2014 VALENTINE’S DAY EXPECTATION: “I just always hope for a good day,” she said. “I have bad memories of the holiday, and when it comes around every year I hope for the best.”
REALITY: “Unfortunately, I’ve been broken up with three times, on three different Valentine’s Days,” she said. “The first guy I had been dating was pretty immature and gave me a CD full of breakup songs. That one hurt. “The second time, we almost made it the whole day, but right before midnight he sent the text that I really hoped I wouldn’t receive and ended our relationship. “Finally, the third guy at least called me to do so, and gave me another reason to hate the holiday.”
2015 VALENTINE’S DAY EXPECTATION: “I currently have a boyfriend, so I’m praying it goes well,” she said. “Just in case something happens between us, I made him pinky promise he wouldn’t break up with me on that particular day.” Blaine Ball can be reached at
featureseditor@theorion.com or @BlaineHBall on Twitter.
B6 | Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015 | Theorion.com/features
Campus cupids crush Valentine’s Day norms DJ Morris
Staff Writer
J.Q. Hammer/The Orion
THE O-FACE: THE ART OF USING PICK-UP LINES Sophia Xepoleas
Sex Columnist
Men and women are very different, and no matter how hard we try there is a good chance that we will never fully understand each other. So when it comes time to intermingle and make impressions, is there really a right way to go about it? In a world of diverse personalities, I would say that there really is no by the book way to initiate a conversation between the two sexes. Some have come to the conclusion that you can plan out what you are going to say before you make the approach, which leads to cheesy pickup lines. I find this to be a skewed notion and can honestly say the only time I have ever dabbled in the pool of pickup lines was when I was being blatantly ironic. The one thing that I have learned is that if you’re going to do it you better do it with confidence, even if that means dropping a poorly written Taylor Swift lyric in an attempt to make your eye candy swoon. Take me for instance. I’m a sarcastic asshole and for some reason, men love it. I’ve come to realize that my particular allure actually lies in my confidence and the way I carry myself. I never pretend to be someone I’m not. I sure as hell don’t hide my inherent case of weird. I let my freak flag fly proudly. I can sympathize with people who have a hard time putting themselves out there. The truth of the matter is, rejection isn’t fun. I would be lying if I told you that I’ve never been rejected, and that it wasn’t a blow to my ego. The real challenge is being able to brush it off and get right back on the horse. Wayne Gretzky said “you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” Be yourself and have fun with it because you really have nothing to lose. Sophia Xepoleas can be reached at sexcolumnist@theorion.com or
@soph_mxx on Twitter.
The cool wind pounded against the thighs of two halfnaked best friends as they ran through campus. Cupid wings and 160 Valentine’s Day cards accompanied them on their journey to spread love on Chico State’s campus. Tony Munoz, senior microbiology major, and Steven Huff, senior math major, reminisced about last year’s escapade and how they challenged the norm of what a stereotypical man should do on Valentine’s Day. “I haven’t had a valentine in three years,” Munoz said. “So instead of picking one person to show love to, I decided to show love to everybody.” Sarah Sullivan, senior health science major and director of the Gender and Sexuality Equity Center, thinks Valentine’s Day turns into a competition revolving around consumerism and stereotypical gender norms and social roles, she said. In most stores, all of the Valentine’s Day gifts target women, she said, with items like flowers, teddy bears and chocolate for sale. “There aren’t many (if any) aisles in the store geared toward men,” Sullivan said. “If a man were to show interest in receiving the stereotypical feminine gifts, his masculinity would be put into question, which is problematic in itself.” Munoz and Huff both agree that Valentine’s Day should be for everyone. For some, Feb. 14 is the day people take the opportunity to show love and appreciation to their crush, significant other or, for Munoz and Huff, the entire campus of Chico State. When Munoz came up with the idea he knew he could not do it alone, so he turned to his
Photo courtesty of Tony Munoz
Tony Munoz, left, and Steven Huff spread love to Katrina Cameron as she promotes “The Vagina Monologues” last year. Munoz and Huff plan to repeat their on-campus Valentine’s Day spree with better costumes this year. partner in crime, Huff.
“kiss me” boxers and pink tank tops to wear during their escapade. Instead of picking one person to After filling out 160 show love to, I decided to show cards individually, they were ready to love to everybody. start their adventure the next day. Tony Munoz, senior microbiology major They hit every spot on campus by sprinting through the Bell Memorial Union, food “When he asked me, I courts and all the offices. thought he was joking,” Huff They received free food and said. “I was down. So we sweets, he said. stayed up the night before and “It was so fun,” Huff said. got prepared.” “I figured people would be acHuff scanned and printed cepting here more than from a doodle of wings he made my hometown, Lodi. Two men in class. The men purchased dressed up in pink and with
wings would not have been their idea of Valentine’s Day.” However, society’s view of Valentine’s Day did not stop Munoz and Huff from going around and giving heart stamps and cards to faculty and students on campus. “I got nervous at first,” Huff said. “But as I started walking out I got hyped. People loved it and we stamped them with ‘Can I kiss you?’ stamps.” While running around campus they found a booth tabling for the center’s annual showing of Eve Ensler’s award-winning play, “The Vagina Monologues.” Once they saw the woman in a vulva costume, they immediately stopped and asked for a picture. The play brings awareness to many different experiences that people with vaginas and people who identify as women go through — both positive and negative, Sullivan said. Sullivan advises students to not spend money on unnecessary or expensive gifts, but instead to go buy tickets to see the show. All of the profits of the show benefit local organizations working to end violence against women and girls. Along with The Vagina Monologues, this Valentine’s Day, Huff and Munoz again plan to descend on the campus on Friday. They had so much fun last year, and they plan to make an even more epic performance, Munoz said. “Friday at 12 o’clock,” Munoz said. “It’ll be the busiest time. We are going to do it live.” Huff does not plan to be timid this year. He plans on having different stamps and better outfits this time around. “Have no fear,” Huff said. “Love is here.” DJ Morris can be reached at
featureseditor@theorion.com or @djthejournalist on Twitter.
ON THEORION.COM The sex columnist puts her pick-up lines to the test with students around campus in an Orion video.
READERS, DIGEST: REACHING CULINARY CLIMAX WITH APHRODISIACS Grace Kerfoot
Food Columnist
Whether it is going out to enjoy an expensive dinner with your sweetheart or deciding to stay home and flirtatiously make a messy pizza together, what you eat on Valentine’s Day has an undeniable power for setting the mood — especially aphrodisiacs. In short, aphrodisiacs are substances that increase sexual libido upon consumption. The list of aphrodisiacs is long, and most lack any scientific proof of actually working — kind of like some relationships we know. Fortunately, many aphrodisiac foods are common, delicious and easy to cook with. Follow this guide to incorporate some love foods into any or all of your Valentine’s Day cooking plans and experience the magic for yourself.
Fruit
Start the morning off easy. Share breakfast in bed — a bowl of fruit — with your
lover. Make sure you include a banana because its suggestive shape should not be overlooked on this holiday of romance. You may also want to include a few juicy figs as they yield a sensual eating experience and deliver mind-blowing flavor.
Chocolate
Dip everything in dark chocolate — even your lover. Chocolate is a pleasure-inducing food. It releases endorphins and will surely set the mood for any romantic occasion. Let there be no limits.
amino acids don’t trigger sex hormones, the sheer luxuriousness of them will surely make your loved one swoon. Few foods speak more of commitment than a plate of oysters. Just make sure to get them from a good source. Nothing says “I love you” quite like a bout of food poisoning.
Vegetables
Next, turn up the heat. Spicy foods will not only make your honey’s heart beat faster with adrenaline but will also make them more inclined to wear less clothing. Add one tablespoon of chili pepper (or five) to whatever you’ve got cooking and prepare to sweat.
Finally, for a vegetarian option this holiday, buy your lover an artichoke. Eat it together, slowly. Experience the tension of peeling back the leaves of a vegetable that clearly does not want to be eaten. Take turns and reach the center heart together. You’ll find the intimacy to be almost unreal. Reaching new levels with your partner on Valentine’s Day can be more than a dream. By adding a few aphrodisiacs to the pot, it is sure to be a recipe for love.
Seafood
Grace Kerfoot can be reached at
Spicy foods
Oysters are also a well-known romance-inducing culinary delight. If their
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featureseditor@theorion.com or @gracekerf on Twitter.
ANSWERS FOR THE SUDOKU AND CROSSWORD CAN BE FOUND ON
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Arts & Entertainment
The Russian Ballet stuns at Laxson Auditorium with its rendition of “Swan Lake.”
theorion.com/arts
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
THU
CALENDAR
12
MUSIC
Chico State School of the Arts presents Chico Unplugged: the acoustic songwriting competition. Local singers and songwriters will perform two original songs in hopes of winning a chance to record with the Chico State Recording Arts program.
B7
ART
Hazy
s n o i t Krea
Photo courtesy of SOTA Zach Aucella/The Orion
WHERE: Madison Bear Garden WHEN: 7 - 9 p.m.
FRI
PRICE: FREE
Kayce Tynan, junior graphic design major, jumps into the business world with her budding sticker company.
Professional doodler gets sticky with it
13
DANCE
The weekly underground dance club will have Eyere Eyes, ALO and Robot pumping out a variety of bass music. People will be able to get their party on under black lights and lasers.
Erin Vierra
Staff Writer
J
Trevor Ryan/The Orion
WHERE: Peking Chinese Restaurant WHEN: 9:30 p.m.
SAT
PRICE: $3
14
PERFORMANCE The Associated Students Gender and Sexuality Equity Center is putting the “V” in Valentine’s Day with its annual spring production of “The Vagina Monologues.” The humorous and powerful play is based on playwright Eve Ensler’s interviews with women about sexuality and strength.
unior graphic design major Kayce Tynan is sharing her love of art via Hazy Kreations, which she will soon showcase to Chico. Normally after studying abroad, students might want to take some time to relax and get back into the swing of school. One student chose to take on the responsibility of starting a design company. Kayce Tynan, a junior graphic design major, has recently found herself entering a new part of her life. Not only is she a full-time Chico State student and traveler, but she has also added entrepreneur to her list of accomplishments. Tynan is the founder of Hazy Kreations, a sticker business on Etsy. Tynan entered Chico State as a sociology major, unsure if it was the right path for her. She then tried her hand at computer graphics since it was more up her alley artistically. But because it was too narrow, Tynan found her way to graphic design. Tynan doesn't consider herself an artist, but more of a pro-doodler, she said. She likes to design little doodles more than huge art pieces. She never knew what to do with that passion until entering the graphic design program.
“I could put that into designs and incorporate my art that way,” she said. Tynan’s doodles stand out because of a mix between the pretty and the ugly, the colorful and the dark. She’s passionate about the theme of her art as embracing entropy. “Entropy is a deterioration of everything over a period of time,” she said. “I think it's important to embrace that; embrace that life isn’t permanent, like everything is in a state of chaos. Normally it’s thought of as a negative thing, everything is constantly dying. It's important to keep that in mind and make the most out of everything.” Last summer, Tynan decided it was time to take her art to another level by creating Hazy Kreations. It is through this business that she is able to showcase her doodles and offer them for sale. Hazy Kreations stems from a nickname given to Tynan by her friends. “My friends used to call me Hazy K as a joke,” she said. Tynan wants to change it sometime, but for now, it is her artistic name. Art has always been part of Tynan’s life and for a while, she wasn’t sure how to proceed with it. But with the shop, Tynan is inspired to get her artwork out.
Hazy Kreations was on its way to becoming successful, but the timing wasn’t quite right for Tynan, who studied abroad in Italy the past semester. Now that she's returned to Chico, she plans to open her shop as soon as possible. Once the Thursday Night Market returns in April, she will be setting up a small booth to sell her stickers and some prints. She is in the process of getting her seller’s permit and as of now, she is trying to price everything. The important thing is sharing her art with the people of Chico, Tynan said, and if that means losing money in the process, it will be OK. Tynan hopes that majoring in graphic design will help her gain confidence and learn the skills that will help her become successful on her artistic path. “I think (I’d like to) just fine tune my art skills, that’s something that’s really important,” she said. “I never really learned the importance of that before getting into this major.” Tynan hopes to design for skateboarders or skate brands one day. “If (companies) like my stuff and they would want to sell it for skateboard brands," she said. "That would be really cool." Erin Vierra can be reached at artseditor@theorion.com or
@gingersmurf85 on Twitter.
PREVIEW
Photo courtesy of AS Productions
WHERE: BMU Auditorium at Chico State WHEN: 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
SUN
PRICE: $10 - $15
15
PERFORMANCE The Chico Theater Company brings to the stage “Mary Poppins,” a musical based on the P.L. Travers literary series and Walt Disney film that follows the dysfunctional Banks family and Mary Poppins, the magical nanny who helps them reform.
Photo courtesy of Chico Theatre Company
WHERE: Chico Theatre Company WHEN: 7 - 9 p.m. PRICE: $15
Stop-motion monsters to come to life in sci-fi short ‘The Spaceman’ At the end of the event there will be a Q&A with the filmmakers and others who contributed to the movie.
Tom Sundgren
Staff Writer
A short film titled “The Spaceman,” which is part stop-motion animation and part live-action, along with animatronics and a miniature set design, is fit for any sci-fi or action movie fan out there. The film will have showings at the Pageant Theatre on East Sixth Street on Feb. 21 and 22. The epic story of “The Spaceman” deals with a man who builds a cardboard spaceship and travels to another planet to end up battling with an alien monster. The monster is a stop-motion puppet, which the filmmakers for the movie had to animate frame by frame. “You take a picture of it, then you move it a little bit and then take another picture,” Josh Funk, director, said. “It took two years for us to do this.” The people involved with the movie also made a gigantic spaceship. The cockpit took up almost all of a garage studio Funk has in the backyard of his house. Other styles and elements that were used in the movie were green screens
Tom Sundgren can be reached at artseditor@theorion.com or
@tomsundgren on Twitter.
DATE: FEB. 21 - 1 P.M. Photo courtesy of Josh Funk
and actual live-action filming in areas of Forest Ranch and in Fern Canyon in Humboldt County. Funk told his brother Jordan, the star of the movie, to “Pretend that you are Bruce Willis, but all they could afford is cardboard.” At the movie premiere for “The Spaceman,” the puppets that were used in the movie will be displayed and the audience will get to see a behind-the-scenes video of how the film was made.
FEB. 22 - 6 P.M.
LOCATION: THE PAGEANT THEATRE
PRICE: $5
B8 | Wednesday, feb. 11, 2015 | Arts & Entertainment
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