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ISSUE 2
VOLUME 71
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Electrifying adaptation of ‘Frankenstein’ takes the stage BY NATALIE TANAKA STAFF WRITER
What makes a man and what makes a monster? On Oct. 13, the Wallace Theatre premiered its first production of the academic year, “Frankenstein.” Based on Nick Dear’s 2011 stage adaption of Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, “Frankenstein” features ominous music, dazzling lights and show-stopping performances. Zachary Bortot, associate professor of theater and director of “Frankenstein,” shared about the production. “Nick Dear’s script tells the classic story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant but troubled young scientist who, through horrifying means, creates a sentient human being referred to as ‘the Creature,’” Bortot said. “Initially innocent and longing for love and acceptance, the Creature attempts to pursue his creator, encountering rejection from society in the process.” Unlike the novel by Mary Shelley, this production tells the story from the perspective
of the Creature rather than its creator, Victor Frankenstein. Kaleb Bravo, sophomore film major, plays the role of the Creature. “I absolutely love the role,” Bravo said. “My favorite part is how much emotion is in every aspect of the character, making him such a challenge to play, which makes it overall better for me.” According to Bravo, one unique aspect of the show is that it is “acting-driven.” The production design took a minimalistic approach, instead focused on telling the story through imagination that was brought to life by the actors’ performances. “As an educator, I love it when I can direct a piece of theater that is not only character-driven but really challenges the actors in terms of what they are able to do with their instrument,” Bortot said. “This may include anything from unique physicality to navigating a dramatic range of emotions.”
SEE FRANKENSTEIN | PAGE 2
Lindsey Stumpf | Banner
Kaleb Bravo, sophomore film major, and Alexandra Kuebler, freshman theater major, act as the “creatures in a dream” for CBU’s fall play, “Frankenstein.” The production is based on Nick Dear’s 2011 adaptation of Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel.
CAVAD students discuss divine inspiration for art BY OLIVIA COX
BY GABI RIGGIN
Across all of human history, artwork and creativity has been a central and instinctive part of life. While secular art certainly has its place in modern society, visual and performance-based religious artwork has always had significant roots. Dirk Dallas, program lead and associate professor of graphic design, shared his insights on the intersection between spirituality, faith and creativity. He holds the view that human creativity is very much related to our spirituality and connection to God. “The beginning of Genesis teaches us that we were created in God’s image, meaning we are his and we are to reflect him,” Dallas said. “From these early verses in Genesis, we learn of who we are, what we are to do and what our purpose is. Since we are called to imitate God and fulfill his image, we should make in the way that he does.”
As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to an end, media representation for Hispanics is still working to make progress compared to other demographics represented in the media. According to an article by Vanessa Martínez and Aida Ylanan in the Los Angeles Times, “Despite sustained attention to the issue of diversity in film and television, statistics on Latino representation have been sparse and inconsistent and what data does exist paints a stark picture: for more than a decade, on-screen representation has hardly improved for Latinos.” While massive Latino artists have gained popularity recently, such as singers Becky G, Karol G, Bad Bunny and Peso Pluma, certain stars laid the groundwork, such as Shakira, Selena and Jennifer
FAITH & LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Kia Harlan | Banner
Joseph Suzuki, senior graphic design major, looks at film negatives from his photography classmates, collaborating with them and giving feedback on his initial reactions to the images.
Hispanic representation in media gradually increases
SEE CAVAD | PAGE 7
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Lopez. JLO and Shakira both performed for the Super Bowl Halftime show in 2020, one of the biggest broadcasts of the year, with about 103 million views, according to Fox. Recently, some well-known shows and movies have also placed Hispanic representation at the forefront, such as “Blue Beetle,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse,” “Encanto” and “In the Heights.” These four movies span from the 2021 until now, with “Encanto” and “In the Heights” both released in 2021 and the other two during 2023. There’s been a movement to be more inclusive. There is push coming from actors such as Jenna Ortega, who wants to give a realistic representation of the world. “The Latin community only takes up three percent of all representation shown across television and film media. The TV world, the film world, should reflect what the real world looks like,” Ortega said in an interview with Hola! Representation has been
lacking even in commercials, which may not be as apparent in the modern days of streaming, but according to the Association of National Advertisers, Hispanic representation in advertising and marketing is less than half of the population. Jennifer Alvarez, junior behavioral science and Spanish major and a first-generation Mexican-American and Latino Student Union representative, said it seems as though Latino and Hispanic people continue to be underrepresented in advertising. Additionally, there are also many harmful stereotypes that many in real life have tried to steer away from. “The first [stereotype] I can think of is that we are very loud,” Alvarez said. “Just in general, for example, our colors that we use are loud, or the music that we listen to is loud, or the way that we speak,” said Alvarez, who said she saw these depictions growing up. “So as a
SEE HISPANIC REP. | PAGE 12
WAYS TO LISTEN TO MUSIC
WATER POLO DIVES IN
MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE
A survey of students who attend the Rec Center shows the most popular way to listen to music at the gym.
Water Polo is already making a big splash, as CBU wins first official conference game against Santa Clara.
Gov. Gavin Newsom announces fast food employee’s minimum wage will be raised to $20.
Arts & Entertainment, pg. 13
Sports, pg. 9
Business & Tech, pg. 10
NEWS
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
THE BANNER
staff
PRINT Editor-in-Chief Alexza Bahmiller
Managing Editor Connor Ryan
Photo Editor Madison Sardana
Asst. Design Editor Vanessa Roaché
Asst. Photo Editor Charissa Graves Josselyn Guillen
Asst. Faith & Lifestyle Editor Valerie La Ponza
News Editor Connor Ryan
Staff Writer Natalie Tanaka
Faith & Lifestyle Editor Olivia Lenning
Sports Editor Michael Marks
A&E Editor Gabi Riggin
Asst. A&E Editor Sarah Murphy
Business & Tech Editor Alexza Bahnmiller
Asst. Business & Tech Editor Arianna Bultsma
Cartoonists Lauren Vincent Carly Brunner
Asst. Sports Editors Hannah Gordon
Asst. Director of Student Publications Casey Maldonado Director of Student Publications Sonya Singh
About
THE BANNER
The Banner newspaper is an awardwinning, campus publication that publishes 6 issues a year at California Baptist University. The newsroom is located in the James Building in Room 060 and can be reached at 951-343-4787. The Banner, a student-run newspaper, serves the CBU community with accurate, timely and factual reporting on significant aspects of university life, Riverside life and subjects of interest or concern to its readers. Students, faculty, staff, administrators and others in the university are encouraged to react to published material or to comment on matters of concern. The Banner retains the right to edit your letter upon publication based on grammar and word count. Send letters to Alexza Bahnmiller, editor-in-chief of The Banner at alexza.bahnmiller@calbaptist.edu. If you have a story idea for The Banner, please let us know. Thanks for reading!
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Keep up with CBU news and events.
Lindsey Stumpf | Banner Agatha, played by Ashley Fisher, junior theater major, and Felix, played by Matthew Furness, sophomore theater major, celebrate their sucessful crops.
Frankenstein Continued from Page 1 Bravo described the effort it took to personify his character. “The prep for this role was hefty but extremely fun,” Bravo said. “I studied the development of a person from birth into adulthood. I also drew from snakes, spiders, crabs and abused or homeless dogs for some animalistic interpretations. I also studied much of ‘Paradise Lost’ and how to integrate biblical aspects. I needed to expand my knowledge on Shakespeare and study every one of my lines to give meaning and learn how to give honest emotions.” Alec Abrahams, senior theater major, also had to prepare himself to portray Victor Frankenstein, the scientist. “I am a pretty goofy, funloving guy, and Victor is the exact opposite. He is serious and solitary,” Abrahams said. “In order to prepare for this role, I first created a complete caricature of what I thought a man like Victor would behave like. Then, with the assistance of my awesome director, Zachary Bortot, I reeled Victor back in to discover the truth in the character, playing more of myself in the role. “It’s a really fun challenge
Charissa Graves | Banner Frankenstein, played by Alec Abrahams, senior theater major, interacts with The Creature, played by Kaleb Bravo, sophomore film major, for the first time since he came to life. for me to play such a complex and serious character. Victor is a very layered character with a lot going on in his head, and I love the challenge of portraying his internal thoughts outward for the audience.” From a storytelling perspective, “Frankenstein” explores themes of morality, pride, sin and suffering. One key theme is that uncontrolled ambition and arrogance can cause chaos and destruction. “I start every production by finding the controlling idea that I base all of my choices around,” Bortot said. “For this play, I identified the following:
Cyclical alienation and suffering dominate personal experience when pursuing advancement without restraint. “Victor Frankenstein interferes with the natural order of life, taking the power to create life from God but he doesn’t even try to help others. Rather, he keeps the power for himself. We then see the destruction that transpires as a result of that,” Bortot said. From a Christian perspective, “Frankenstein” is a dire warning about sin. Audiences grapple with the idea that people’s choices
ultimately determine if they are a human or a monster. “We believe this is a story that Christian universities should be willing to undertake because of our trust in the goodness of God and our knowledge that what Victor does is truly horrific,” Bortot said. “In many ways, the play acts as a morality tale, warning us against the dangers of pride, unchecked ambition and social isolation. I pray our team has been able to draw out the idea that we are capable of monstrous things when we choose to distort God’s creation.”
Food additives outlawed by new ‘Skittles ban’ BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Tough news for candy lovers: Gov. Gavin Newsom has approved first-in-the-nation legislation that will ban four additives frequently found in sweets such as Nerds, gummies, cookies, boxed cake mixes and more. The ban, nicknamed the “Skittles ban,” prohibits red dye No. 3, titanium dioxide, potassium bromate and propylparaben, according to a news release from Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel’s office. Dr. Lindsay Fahnestock, associate professor of public health, explained why these four additives have raised health concerns. “Red dye No. 3 is a very interesting concern since it has been shown in some studies to increase the risk of tumors in rats, increase risk of thyroid issues and it has the potential to remain in the environment for long periods of time and bioaccumulate in the food chain,” Fahnestock said. Fahnestock remembered hearing her professors at Loma Linda discussing brominated vegetable oil, saying it should be considered a potential endocrine disruptor. “This makes sense, given that other brominated chemicals are already considered endocrine disruptors and it has been shown to have similar effects in research. Some health effects
include neurological problems, thinks that the ban is a good thyroid and reproductive opportunity for people to issues in rat studies, and even become more mindful about cholesterol and triglyceride what they consume. “[The ban] is raising more complications,” Fahnestock awareness for materials that said. According to spnet.org, are problematic,” Brown said. PepsiCo agreed to remove BVO “It causes people to question from all their beverages in what is in the food they consume, which in some ways 2014. Beginning with Gatorade, is good. California has always the drinks slowly made the been more health-conscious change, with the final beverage than other states and it’s containing BVO, Mountain probably a good thing.” Fahnestock also sees the Dew, removing the additive in benefits behind the legislation. 2020. “I do believe “I personally it will be a do not know new trend to as much about begin banning p o t a s s i u m chemicals, which bromate and are known to propyl pa ra b e n, cause deleterious however, I health effects… at have heard least I hope it will that potassium bromate, found Jack Brown be,” Fahnestock added. in bread products, junior creative writing Fa h n e s t o c k is a potential described going c a n c e r- c a u s i n g major to get milk with agent that can affect DNA mutations,” her husband and discovering Fahnestock said. “Being that that a common dairy-free [propylparaben] is a paraben, coffee creamer contained I would be concerned about its titanium dioxide. “I know [titanium dioxide] endocrine-disrupting effects as well. The Environmental has been used for a long time Working Group rated this in skin products (which helps particular chemical as a 9 on a with the prevention of skin scale of potentially hazardous cancer) however, I had not chemicals that should not be realized it had been used for years in food,” she said. utilized in products.” Fahnestock thinks the list of Both potassium bromate and propylparaben have been banned additives will grow. “I found out that Europe banned in Europe since 1990, has also just recently banned according to legislation.gov.uk. Jack Brown, junior [titanium dioxide] in food due creative writing major, said he to potential bioaccumulation
“
[The ban] is raising more awareness for materials that are problematic.”
and potential DNA damage. I believe CA has decided to add this to the list of banned chemicals as well, so I do believe this is starting a new trend.” Tania Brooks, sophomore film production major, said she thinks the legislation prevents personal responsibility. “I don’t think the ban is necessary because we all should have to the ability to choose what we consume,” Brooks said. “I think banning [additives] takes away our freedom and the nostalgia found in candies. I think people are already aware of what they are consuming and taking it away won’t make much of a difference but will just make people angry since certain candies and such have been around for so long already.” The law will take effect in 2027. Other states seem to be following California’s lead, with New York proposing a similar bill that would ban a total of five additives, according to a release from the New York State Senate. “We should always remember, we can never reduce our risks in life by 100%,” Fahnestock said. “However, we have the potential to reduce them to a tolerable level if we remain current on risk assessment research and have the willingness to continue striving for growth and never stop the learning process. We certainly do not want become complacent and end up causing more harm than good.”
NEWS
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
NEWS BRIEFS WRITTEN BY CONNOR RYAN
ISRAEL AND HAMAS
Natalie Tanaka | Banner Natalie Rivas, sophomore political science major (left), dances enthusiastically at the Hispanic Heritage Fiesta with dance partner Rayleigh Rogers, senior graphic design major (right).
Israel and Hamas are currently locked in a brutal battle that has lasted for weeks. According to ABC News, the conflict was initiated by Hamas on Oct. 7, when the terrorist group launched a surprise attack on Israel. Israeli officials have confirmed that more than 1,400 were killed in the attack, and 4,500 were injured. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) called for citizens of Gaza to evacuate, signaling the start of a larger conflict. The IDF released a statement confirming that they plan to retaliate and have already killed more than 70 Hamas members during air raids. The IDF stated 222 citizens were taken hostage, including 20 that were under 18. Those who have not fled the country continue to seek shelter.
CBU’s Latino Student Union presents HOUSE SPEAKER OUSTED annual Hispanic Heritage Fiesta BY CONNOR RYAN MANAGING EDITOR
Community Life has shaken things up this year with the Hispanic Heritage Fiesta. The event offers a great opportunity for people of all backgrounds to celebrate and learn about Hispanic culture. Jamie Eriksen, Director of Student Activities, said that it was essential that the university worked closely with the Latino Student Union (LSU) to ensure the event was authentic and accurately representing Latinos at CBU. “We very much look to the Latino Student Union to give us direction on that,” Eriksen said. “We really wanted them to feel like they had ownership and input on the event. Before we made decisions, we would meet with the student leadership and kind of talk about what was important to them and what they would want to feature at the event.” Plenty of activities were available to students at this evening event, including a salsa dancing tutorial hosted by members of LSU. Natalie Cruz, senior environmental science major, shared how this event was an excellent opportunity for all students to come together
and celebrate a fun aspect of Hispanic culture. “My favorite element of the fiesta was when LSU officers taught other people how to do different dances such as salsa and cumbia,” Cruz said. “It is always fun to see people who are newer to Latino culture try to do something different, and it is something us Latinos always like to do. We like sharing parts of our culture with others.” Eriksen mentioned that one of the main goals of this year’s festival was to provide more educational opportunities to educate students on Hispanic culture. “The thing we are always going to be pushing for in these cultural events is really to teach people more about whatever culture we’re highlighting, and so I think we did that this year,” Eriksen said. Eriksen and LSU accomplished this through several ways, the most notable being a station where students could make their own paper flowers. Eriksen shared fond memories of her childhood and how this activity represented her heritage as a Latina. “I know when I grew up, we would always make them and put them on cars when people were leaving a wedding that
would say ‘Just Married’ with these paper flowers all over them,” Eriksen said. “So it was always something kind of special to our family growing up.” Another way they did this was through their well-placed decorations set up throughout Harden Square. Megan Madrigal, senior English major, said the atmosphere brought the event to another level. “I loved all the special details such as the cute banners hanging and, of course, the festive music,” Madrigal said. “Also, the décor and candy on the tables were a nice surprise to the guests.” Part of the challenge of educating outsiders on Hispanic culture was making the event accessible to all students. Eriksen said that part of the solution was picking a location that was more centralized. “We thought by moving the event closer to the center of campus we might engage with different students who are passing by, going to classes, that kind of thing,” Eriksen said. “So we moved to Harden Square, which we thought was a really beautiful backdrop to the event.” The event started at 5 p.m., two hours earlier than last
year, to attract more commuter students. According to Eriksen, many commuters struggled to make it to last year’s event because their classes ended hours before. The new time is just late enough to ensure most people have just finished their classes. It was also closer to dinner time so people could enjoy the free Hispanic food prepared by Provider. Students were offered chicken street tacos and a variety of Hispanic candy throughout the course of the event. While Cruz appreciated the fresh food and snacks, she was excited to see how CBU could partner with local vendors in the future. “Riverside is booming with Hispanic vendors all over, and I’m sure the students here would be more than happy to provide their support and help get some of these vendors onto campus,” Cruz said. “Many Hispanic vendors dedicate their whole lives to what they do, and being able to give them a chance to shine here on campus would be a wonderful thing.” Regardless of what future fiestas entail, LSU creates and will continue to create an inclusive cultural experience for all CBU students.
For the first time in history, the Speaker of the House of Representatives was voted out of his position. On Oct. 3, the House reached a final vote of 216-210, with 208 Democrats and 8 Republicans in favor of the “motion to vacate” House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. CBS News stated that McCarthy was accused of making a secret deal with President Joe Biden to pass a funding bill before an impending government lockdown. Republicans are still in the process of deciding on a replacement for the vacant position. According to the Washington Post, Republican politician Patrick McHenry has become the active speaker of the House of Representatives. Nine candidates announced they will run for office.
RIVERSIDE DEPUTY SHOT A Riverside County deputy was sent to the hospital on Oct. 18 after being shot by a suspected felon. According to the L.A. Times, the attack took place in Thousand Palms, where officers were investigating a hit-and-run case. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office stated that when the officers attempted to investigate a suspect’s car, someone in the passenger seat opened fire, hitting an officer in the stomach. The suspects were detained and the officer was hospitalized. The Desert Sun reported that the two suspects, Jose Eduardo Rosales Perez and Kristian Galeana, were charged with attempted murder.
California Senator Dianne Feinstein dies at 90 CBU community BY CONNOR RYAN MANAGING EDITOR
California Senator Dianne Feinstein died on Sept. 29 after 30 years of serving in the U.S. Senate. Feinstein was the first woman to serve on the California Senate. She tended to focus her efforts on gun safety, women’s rights, investigating CIA torture and improving the environment. Some of her most well-known accomplishments were leading the investigation that outlawed enhanced interrogation techniques by the CIA and writing the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban. After her death, many candidates are vying for her spot in the 2024 election. Surprising much of the California population Gov. Newsom chose Laphonza Butler, former president of Emily’s List, a political action committee, to act as interim senator until the upcoming election. Part of what makes this decision surprising is that Butler hasn’t lived in California for two years, having moved to Maryland in 2021 to become president of Emily’s List. According to Erick
Hernandez, sophomore political science major, this recent shift has caused people to reexamine the existing terms for senators. “Senator Feinstein died at a very old age for a serving congressman, and her death has sparked a conversation around term limits for serving officials,” Hernandez said. “I doubt we’ll get another case of this type of appointment. If another senator dies in office, the governor will appoint one per their duty. Their appointment will reveal a lot about their personal and political aspirations. The fact that Newsom chose a candidate not popular among California voters is a detail that should be taken into account.” Instead of turning to the primary candidates — Barbara Lee, Katie Porter and Adam Schiff — Newsom chose someone who has shown no previous interest in running for the position. Many wondered whether Butler’s time as interim senator would prompt her to run for the position again in March. “On one hand, being in the post and then running
as a candidate for it can be an advantage — name recognition,” said Dr. Beth Groves, associate professor of public administration. “However, it could also prove to be a detriment. The other candidates have not done the job; therefore, they can run on what they intend to do. The appointed person serving in the job has an actual track record of how she is handling the responsibility. Depending on the voter’s opinion of how she is doing will influence their vote.” Dr. Chris Porter, associate professor of political science, stated that Newsom may have done this to avoid showing favoritism to any of the candidates. “Gov. Newsom very clearly did not want to be seen as tipping the scales in the election,” Porter said. “The best way to avoid doing that is to appoint someone who was not a candidate in the election nor had expressed a desire to run prior to the appointment. If he had chosen one of the current primary candidates, then he would be expressing a clear preference in the election,” Porter said.
Nathan Noriega, freshman political science major, said the decision might also result from Newson trying to cater to the Democratic Party, which makes up the majority of California voters. “Newsom was under a lot of pressure to find a replacement candidate due to Feinstein’s untimely death,” Noriega said. “He looked for a candidate that would fit the Democratic agenda of diversity and cater to the lobbyists. It was a political decision made to garner support from minority voters.” However, Butler recently revealed in a statement that she would not seek another term as senator. Because of this, citizens are again focusing on the primary candidates. Hernandez claimed that the seat change may prove “inconsequential” partly because all three candidates were of the same party as the late Feinstein. Regardless, voters can research each candidate to understand their views and qualifications and use that information to vote for who they believe is the best candidate in March 2024.
mourns loss of Abraham Halvorson BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
A greatly loved young man of faith, sophomore Abraham Halvorson, 19, died on Oct. 6 from injuries sustained during a car accident. Halvorson was studying computer science and he was an exceptional student, wrote CBU president Dr. Ronald L. Ellis in an Oct. 7 email to the university community. Halvorson demonstrated his commitment to learning by earning a spot on the President’s List for his high academic achievement. He lived in The Colony apartments and built a network of friendships there, as well. To honor Halvorson’s life and impact, a memorial will be held in the Engineering Building on Friday, Oct. 13 at 11 a.m. During times of unexpected
loss, a variety of resources are available to students around the clock. The Counseling Center is on call at 951-6891120. The Spiritual Life Office can be contacted at 951-3435015, and Residence Life and Housing Services can be reached at 951-552-8111. Trained clinicians can be contacted at 1-800-854-1446. For faculty and staff, assistance is available through the CBU Employee Assistance Program. At the time of the accident, William Jackson, also a computer science major, accompanied Halvorson and was treated in the hospital for non-life threatening injuries. “Please join me in praying for the Halvorson family as they cope with the loss of their loved one,” Ellis wrote. “I pray for a complete recovery for William and that the families and friends of both students feel the comfort of God’s hand.”
VISION
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
K
Hispanic
Heritage Month
D
S
Natalie Tanaka | Banner Hispanic Heritage festival at CBU
Natalie Tanaka | Banner
Natalie Tanaka | Banner
Created by: Gabi Riggin
Spanish Playlist
Dreaming of You by Selena Ella Baila Sola by Peso Pluma & Eslabon Armado Shakira: BZRP Music sessions, Vol. 53 by Bizarrap Ella Es Bontia by Natalie Lafourcade 2NDO Chance by Becky G & Ivan Cornejo
About
A Mi Manera by Sindrome Time by El Gran Silencio Viento by Caifanes No Me Queda Más by Selena Tus Gafitas by Karol G
Hispanic Heritage Month spans from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 and provides time for additional appreciation and exploration of the impact Latinas and Latinos had and continue to have on the United States.
Design by Alexza Bahnmiller
Mile
Aug. 24, 1821 The Treaty of Cordoba establishes Mexico's independence from Spain. Devastated post-war, Mexico invites select anglo settlers to Texas.
P Lo A
Sept. 30, 1822 Joseph Marion Hernandez becomes the first Hispanic member of Congress. Sept. 30, 1822 Joseph Marion Hernandez becomes the first Hispanic member of Congress.
The MexicanThe Treaty of G war, setting River and givin
VISION
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
Si
Key figures
Cesar Chavez – A civil rights activist who was a leader in the fight to improve working and living conditions of farm workers. Dr. Ellen Ochoa – Dr. Ochoa became the first Latina to go to space in 1993 as she flew aboard the space shuttle Discovery. Olga E. Custodio – Custodio served in the United States Air Force for 24 years and made history as the first Latina US Military pilot. Sandra Cisneros - A National Medal of the Arts recipient, Cisneros is a leading Latina voice in literature. In 1995, she became the first Latina to be named a MacArthur Fellow. Willie Colón – Often recognized for his skilled trombone playing, Colón is a pioneer of the American Salsa music style. Sourced from latino.si.edu
5 Fun Facts
1) Day of the Dead originated a several thousand years ago
2) In 2008, UNESCO recognized the importance of Día de los Muertos by adding the holiday to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
M uer
4) Drinks to celebrate the holiday include pulque, a sweet fermented beverage made from the agave sap; atole, a thin warm porridge made from corn flour, with unrefined cane sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla added; and hot chocolate.
tos
3) Sugar skulls are part of a sugar art tradition brought by 17th-century Italian missionaries. Pressed in molds and decorated with crystalline colors, they come in all sizes and levels of complexity. Pan de muerto, or bread of the dead, is a typical sweet bread (pan dulce), often featuring anise seeds and decorated with bones and skulls made from dough. The bones might be arranged in a circle, as in the circle of life. Tiny dough teardrops symbolize sorrow.
5) Papel picado plays an important role in the holiday. Draped around altars and in the streets, the art represents the wind and the fragility of life. Sourced from National Geographic
D
ia
1846-1848 The Mexican-American War takes place. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the war, setting a border at Sourced from the Rio Grande River and giving America control of History.com select states. 1910-1917 The long and violent Mexican Revolution 1846-1848 causes a surge of Mexicans to cross the U.S. -American War takes place. border. Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the a border at the Rio Grande Dec. 7, 1928 ng America control of select Octaviano Ambrosio Larrazolo states. of New Mexico is sworn in as the country's first Hispanic senator.
los
March 6, 1836 After 13 days of siege, Mexico President and General Antonio opez Santa Anna,, storm the The Alamo "Remember the Alamo!" becomes a battle cry.
During Dia de los Muertos, families and loved ones come together to pay tribute to the deceased. On Nov. 1, children are honored and on Nov. 2, adults are honored.
de
Historic estones
a n c i c e f i ng of Dia de los Muertos
FAITH & LIFESTYLE
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
Christian and secular therapy styles vary in techniques BY OLIVIA COX
FAITH AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR
One of the cornerstones of Western psychology is Sigmund Freud, an atheist. He drew a long line of followers, supporters and critics with postmodern worldviews. However, at CBU, the psychology programs “teach from a biblically rooted perspective enabling students to address mental, emotional and spiritual needs in the community," according to the description of CBU’s master of counseling psychology program. Dr. Jong Cheon Lee, professor of psychology, shared his knowledge concerning the difference between Christian and secular therapy. “Modern psychology is defined as the scientific study of human behavior,” Lee said. “The psychology and psychotherapy that arose in the late nineteenth century was built on the tenets of scientific inquiry and a naturalistic worldview that precluded spiritual and biblical dimensions. Secular counseling emphasizes self-actualization and personal happiness.” In contrast with secular techniques, Lee explained that Christian therapy revolves around a biblical worldview.
Christian counseling is defined Lee said. “Christian counseling as counseling that takes place is built upon the truth of God’s within the ideological context Word and operates under the illumination and direction of the of the Christian worldview. “Christian counseling re- Holy Spirit.” Christian quires a therapy priChristian oritizes loving p sy c h o l God and neighogy, a bors as the priChristian ority and modview of el in healing. human Hannah functionWoods, graduing and ate counseling the structures that Hannah Woods, p s y c h o l o g y student, said facilitate counseling psychology psychotherapy that funcgraduate student seeks to idention, a tify emotional Christian view of how to converse with and behavioral issues in a clipeople in order to help and a ent’s life and work to find the Christian view of what is help- root of that problem. Woods explained that secuful and what is not,” Lee said. He explained that in order lar therapy holds the view that to execute this skill, the therapist must have a thorough understanding of the Bible and its teachings regarding human nature. “While both secular and Christian counseling share some content and seek learning and change, Christian counseling rests on a separate and distinct foundation, with a significantly different purpose,”
“
In Christian psychotherapy, the issues are rooted externally but also internally with an emphasis on including spiritual guidence."
“
the power to change and grow is in the hands of the client. The Christian alternative places this power in the hands of God. “In Christian psychotherapy, the issues are rooted externally but also internally with an emphasis on including spiritual guidance,” Woods said. “As believers, we have the Holy Spirit living inside us, and this can aid in figuring out how to approach our issues and bring about a sense of peace that only one’s faith can provide.” Woods shared that as a student at CBU, her program teaches her how to approach therapy from a biblical perspective. She claimed one of the main differences is the perspective it is presented from. “The integration of scripture and a different standard of moral and ethical reasoning is
Modern psychology is defined as the scientific study of human behavior. The psychology and psychotherapy that arose in the late nineteenth century was built on the tenets of scientific inquiry and a naturalistic worldview" Jong Cheon Lee, professor of pyschology
what stands out,” Woods said. “I think that both approaches use the same strategies, techniques, and theories, but the integration of religion can be more outspoken with Christian ther-
“
One could say Christian therapy is more holistic because they look at all aspects of a person: social, psychological, biological and spiritual."
Jenna Westbrook, counseling psychology graduate student
apists where it is appropriate.” Many Christians prefer being under the care of a Christian therapist because the shared values facilitate a safer space and greater trust in their therapist. “There are alternative forms to therapy such as counseling through a church, non-profit organizations and even from
those individuals [who] define themselves as ‘elders,’” Woods said. “This form of counseling can be more beneficial due to costs, prior knowledge of the individuals providing the services, and the convenience of location.” Jenna Westbrook, graduate counseling psychology student, explained that one of the key differences between the two therapy styles is that Christian therapy focuses on both psychological and spiritual well-being, whereas secular therapy would solely focuses on psychological health. “One could say a Christian therapist is more holistic because they look at all aspects of a person: social, psychological, biological and spiritual,” Westbrook said. Westbrook shared that emotional regulation techniques may differ between Christian and secular therapy. “For example, if a client came in with anxiety, both types of therapists may utilize cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. However, the Christian therapist may also encourage the client to pray, meditate [and] reflect on scripture,” Westbrook said.
Goodness, Truth, and Beauty class teaches profound lessons about life and spirituality said. "And we’re currently the least emotionally healthy society in the history of the world, and I Goodness, truth and beauty. Individual- think that’s connected to it. And our response to ly, these three concepts seem to be relatively that is instead of embracing industry and beauty, simple. Goodness is merely the absence of evil. we just prescribe something.” Welbaum said he cannot overstate the imporTruth is the opposite of lies. And beauty is sometance of this class. thing nice to look at. “I think that it’s the single most important However, according to the professors who teach the "Goodness, Truth, and Beauty" course, class they take in their college career, and if I these three concepts are much more profound, had my druthers, students would take it as part of the first-year experience," defining our existence Welbaum said. "It would just as human beings. be a fundamental start thing Dr. Sam Welbaum, because I think it is probably associate professor of the most important class they Christian ministries, take.” has taught the class Faith Ellzey, sophomore since 2016. Since then, marketing major, took the he’s instructed hunclass with Dr. Tim Mosteller. dreds of eager students, She said her favorite part of integrating biblical the class is directly affected by principles and facts about life and society. Sam Welbaum, her upbringing and moral beliefs. She cited the traditional Welbaum described associate professor of Christian household she grew up in as the world as a desert ministries her biggest influence. and that students and “I have strong moral founhumans have fallen dations that I definitely build into the trap of a lack of my life around as a Christian. That really helps goodness, truth and beauty. “I think it’s important because the soul needs as well, but I love talking about my truth," Ellit, and I think when you take goodness, truth, zey said. "We had a paper on God last week, and and beauty away from a populace, you increase it was really amazing to just write a paper on my anxiety, depression and isolation," Welbaum thoughts on Jesus and God and Christ.”
BY VALERIE LA PONZA
ASST. FAITH & LIFESTYLE EDITOR
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The soul needs it, and I think when you take goodness, truth, and beauty away from a populance, you increase anxiety, depression, and isolation."
Flowers symbolising the beauty of God's creation on CBU's campus. Ellzey said she admired the class structure. “I like that it’s a lot of group discussion," Ellzey said. "I’m also in it with my friends, so I love that during the group discussion, I get to learn more about her. Then we get to solve these unknown philosophies and come up with our own personal discussion.” Sam Marino, sophomore aviation flight major, is currently taking the class with Prof. Keith Quan. Marino likes the class and compared the intense thinking during class to a workout. “My favorite part of the class is probably the professor and the way he really makes you think," Marino said. "He’ll point out these questions that
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just blow your mind. ...I must have burned a couple hundred calories just thinking like that in that class." Marino highly recommends that others take the class. “Absolutely, I would advise others to take this class," Marino said. "It also helps with good note-taking. if you’re somebody out there who is not the best note-taker, this will really improve your note-taking.” "Goodness, Truth and Beauty" is a class as intriguing as its name. The core ideas translate into concepts that can enhance and make the world a better, more truthful and more beautiful place.
Apologetics may bring individuals to saving faith in Christ BY OLIVIA COX
FAITH AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Apologetics is often considered a buzzword in Christian circles, but few evangelicals genuinely understand the purpose and meaning of Christian apologetics. Dr. Sam Welbaum, associate professor of Christian ministries, defined Christian apologetics. “Apologetics itself is just the art of intellectually defending something, so Christian apologetics is the use of reason and persuasion in defending the truth of Christianity,” Welbaum said. Welbaum explained that apologetics and evangelism go hand in hand. Any gospel presentation should include some form of reasoned defense for the faith and highlight the inherent truth of scripture. “The problems arise when someone wants to defend the truth of Christianity with no concern that the lost hear the gospel,” Welbaum said. “That's just wanting to argue or wanting
to be right, not defend Christianity.” According to Welbaum, apologetics may attract three types of people: those who are insecure, prideful or humble. “The insecure see it as a means of trying to help them drown out doubts, and they usually cover this in false confidence that eventually fails them,” Welbaum said. “The prideful see apologetics as a way for them to show how important and impressive they are.” He explained both types of people are more concerned with themselves than with Christ. “The Christ they are defending disappears, and the gospel becomes something of an idea or a postulate as opposed to historical and ontological fact,” Welbaum said. “The one who is confident and humble sees that God has gifted them to serve a particular role and that it is an honor to be able to serve God by using those intellectual gifts to clear the way for the gospel message.”
Welbaum shared how apologetics is an effective evangelistic tool and highly effective in discipleship. “The more firmly a person believes what they believe, the more likely they are to live it out,” Welbaum said. Welbaum explained that all areas of study can be used to support apologetic pursuits. “Since God made everything in the cosmos, everything in the cosmos points to him,” Welbaum said. “Philosophical, scientific, literary and more recently the behavioral science categories get the most attention.” Welbaum said that even our character and behavior as Christians is, in many ways, a form of apologetics because it testifies to the goodness of God. Adrian Jacobs, CBU alumna and double major in English and philosophy, shared some insight on the use of apologetics. She said that apologetics can be very helpful in building confidence in believers and strengthening their faith, as
well as bringing individuals to leaders in the local church and asking their advice,” Jacobs faith in Christ. “[Apologetics] can be one of said. “Classic books like 'Mere our best tools as we share the Christianity' and 'The Case for gospel, especially in a world Christ' can be great starting that is skeptical of those who points.” Noah Gauderman, senior apsupport objective morality and a true faith in Christ as the plied theology major, explained only way to heaven,” Jacobs the purpose and intention besaid. “When individuals have hind apologetics. “ T h e questions about Book of Acts belief in God, described being ready to how Paul answer those reasoned questions can with people be extremely in the synaimportant.” gogue in and J a c o b s through the stressed that Scriptures,” when using Gauderman apologetics, besaid. “The lievers ought effectiveness to approach people where Sam Welbaum, associate of this tool stands on the they are and be professor of Christian f o u n d a t i o n aware of what ministries of love. As evangelism reason is not tools and methods would best suit that indi- the only faculty humans possess, so should reason not be the vidual. “Apologetics research can only faculty we address in evanbe done in a variety of ways. I gelism, but the whole person — would recommend seeking out emotions, will, conscience.”
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Apologetics itself is just the art of intellectually defending something, so Christian apologetics is the use of reason and persuasion in defending Chistianity."
Gauderman explained that sharing apologetics and the gospel is the foundation for every genuine presentation of apologetic facts. However, bringing people to salvation should not be a burden that falls on the shoulders of humans, rather, it is a work of God, performed by the use of faithful vessels. “Different types of apologetic styles [minister to] different types of personalities,” Gauderman said. “Some may not care at all about the probability of our universe being constructed the way it is as having a near zero probability; others may find a direct correlation between that truth and the powerful work of God. Others may prefer hearing the testimony or experience of Christians throughout history or modern-day Christians, while others may listen to it completely unbothered." Gauderman said the main source of our apologetics and evangelistic efforts should be the word of God — the foundation of all reason, logic and defense of our faith and salvation.
FAITH & LIFESTYLE
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
CAVAD Continued from Page 1 Dallas said the purpose of art is to give God glory and to love others. This differs from the worldly idea that art is about self-expression and personal satisfaction. “I believe God is the ultimate creative being. Throughout the Bible, God is consistently shown to be the creator who meticulously shaped the universe with intention and artistry,” Dallas said. Dallas cited Genesis 1, Psalm 104:24-30, Colossians 1:16 and John 1:3 as evidence of this view. He also said that divine creative themes are shown in the book of Exodus through the construction of the Tabernacle. “All of these point beyond to goodness, truth and beauty, transcending the ordinary and reflecting the reality of God as the ultimate creator,” Dallas said. Dallas shared that his relationship with God is the most significant form of inspiration and motivation for all his creative endeavors. “[My faith] reminds me that my talents and abilities are a gift,” Dallas said. “It then shows me where my identity ultimately lies which can be a big point of struggle for many people working in the creative fields.” Dallas claimed he has learned the hard way that he is not defined by his artwork or achievements but rather by the fact that he is God’s creation. “This mindset also gives me a deep sense of how I should create and what my purpose with creating ultimately is," Dallas said. "At the end of the day, my relationship with God grounds and guides my creative energy, giving it purpose, inspiration and gratitude to him."
Courtesy of Christopher Kern Jenna Beekhuis, senior photography major, shares her photography and asks for feedback from her fellow graphic design classmates about how she can better convey her style through her personal branding.
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Creativity allows us to express ourselves and to extend our faiths into a physical medium. Art comes from the soul and allows us to tell our stories in beautiful ways." Mackenzie Head, sophomore graphic design major
Dallas encouraged students to remember that their creative talents, no matter what they are,
are a gift from God given for the purpose of loving our neighbor. Grace Ellzey, sophomore graphic design major, shared how her faith experience fuels her creative energy. “I believe art is an extension of God and his creativity and I believe he can touch people through art, music, dance, light, and touch which can be spiritual,” Ellzey said. Ellzey echoed Dallas, explaining that God uses people as creative instruments to serve or to touch others. “God is indeed a creative being, 'In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth’
… he created everything, so that means he created art,” Ellzey said. Mackenzie Head, sophomore graphic design major, explained that God is not only our artistic creator but is the complete source of her personal creative efforts. “Creativity allows us to express ourselves and to extend our faiths into a physical medium,” Head said. “Art comes from the soul and allows us to tell our stories in beautiful ways.” Head said she is often awestruck by nature and its artistic design. “Even something as simple
as my fingerprints, I’m overwhelmingly reminded of how creative God is,” Head said. “Ephesians 2:10 is a great explanation of God’s creativity.“ Head explained that her relationship with God and seeking him in the creative process often proves to be very helpful in producing ideas. “God has given me the skill sets and talents I have and when I use them to honor him, my relationship with him grows,” Head said. “God is the ultimate artist and when we take the time to acknowledge what he has made, it can help our creativity to flourish.”
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[My faith] reminds me that my talents and abilities are a gift. It then shows me where my identity ultimately lies, which can be a big point of struggle for many people working in creative fields." Dirk Dallas, associate professor of graphic design
Technology contributes to the artistic world BY VALERIE LA PONZA
ASST. FAITH & LIFESTYLE EDITOR With technology existing in nearly every area in the world, it is no surprise that the art and creative world would follow suit. However, will technological advances be as beneficial to this world as it has been for other industries? Amanda Santos, professor of ceramic arts, said that ceramics and technology interact in a few ways and that technology has helped open the world of ceramics to those who might not be able to throw pottery on a tradi-
tional wheel. “I know in the 3D world in general, there is the possibility of 3D printing using clay," Santos said. "So instead of like a filament or a plastic, the machine can be retrofitted to work with clay, which is really beautiful. So then you can get some very interesting, elegant forms. It's also sort of like a passive way to create.” Kristi Lippire, professor of visual art, brought up the availability of technology through Pinterest, which can help students with their creativity and inspiration.
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Lippire said that this technological availability is both a benefit and a drawback for students' creativity. While the algorithm can help inspire students to create new things, it can also lead students to become stuck in the same algorithm, turning all their creative works into recreations, as there is nothing new or inspiring being added. “There are going to be things that are missing [from the algorithm] that I just hope people
don’t only rely on this. Right, truly developing your ideas and
What are those trade offs going to be? Is that good? Is it making us more human?" Dirk Dallas, associate professor of graphic design
doing research about many different ways of creating [is important]. The computer is just one tool,” Lippire said.
Dirk Dallas, program lead and associate professor of graphic design, was a beta tester for Dall-E, Chat-GPT’s art counterpart, and said that he was highly impressed by the technology and its possible applications. “When I first used Dall-E, I was blown away, but I also think that I have my concerns, too," Dallas said. "So there’s this line I’m always walking, where I’m like: There’s cool things about technology, but I also know there’s always trade-offs. What are those tradeoffs going to be? Is that good? Is it making us
more human?" Even though Dallas teaches graphic design, he often takes his students off technology and lets them get hands-on, allowing them to make markups of projects on paper or use tactile items such as berries and nails in order to create graphic design-like pieces. Lippire said that while technology is an amazing tool for the creative mind, it is important to keep the human in the art, the thing that makes it compelling. “We have to, as a culture, remember to privilege the human," Lippire said.
Lifestyle Tries: Fabric ghosties perfect for spookiness BY VALERIE LA PONZA
ASST. FAITH & LIFESTYLE EDITOR
This is a quick, easy and cute Halloween decoration that can be put in your window, strung up on a string or even put on your front porch to greet guests. With only six ingredients, this craft is as simple as it is adorable. Step 1: Gather ingredients Wide-mouthed jar (Can also use a disposable cup) Balloon Disposable bowl Black Felt White Glue Water Fabric Step 2: Make the Glue Mixture Stir the glue mixture with equal parts glue and water until thoroughly mixed. (Tip: If you are using the whole bottle of glue, fill up the bottle of glue with water and mix). Step 3: Saturate Fabric with the Glue Mixture Start by measuring the fabric and cutting it into shape. You want the fabric to drape and reach the jar's base. It can be cut into a rectangle or a square. Once the fabric is cut to shape,
soak the fabric in the glue mixture until the material is wholly saturated. Squeeze out excess back into the bowl. Step 4: Drape Fabric and Put Out To Dry Put the balloon on the mouth of the jar, drape the fabric over the balloon and the jar and arrange the folds. Once the folds are arranged, take the jar outside to dry in the sun. Step 5: Cut Eyes and Mouth Once the ghosts are dry, pop the balloon and remove the jar. Cut out eyes and mouth for your new ghost friend using the black felt. Step 6: Decorate. You can use the felt circles for the eyes and mouth or googly eyes for your ghost. Customize your ghost as much as you want and enjoy! Extra: You can thread fairy lights into the ghost to produce an inner glow for extra spooky fun.
Valerie La Ponza | Banner Valerie La Ponza, assistant faith & lifestyle editor, shares the steps to create little ghost decorations for the fall season.
PERSPECTIVES
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
Students celebrate season at Fall Festival
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1. Students make memories while taking photos in a corn cutout at the Fall Festival on Oct. 24 on the Van Dyne Gymnasium lawn. 2. Students choose from a variety of paint colors for their pumpkins at the Fall Festival.
3. CBU students wait under the lights to pick out 5. Dahlia Ford, freshman pre-nursing student, paint for their pumpkins. jams out to the DJ’s music while painting pumpkins at the Fall Festival. 4. Students participate in a variety of activities at the Fall Festival, including bungee jumping. Photos by Hannah Okamoto and Natalie Tanaka
SPORTS
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
Water polo sinks Santa Clara in historic win BY MICHAEL MARKS SPORTS EDITOR
A rematch happens often in sports, but not every rematch lives up to the hype. Oftentimes our expectations do not line up with reality and a would-be spectacle turns into disappointment. That was not the case, however, with this rematch which pitted the CBU men’s water polo team against West Coast Conference counterpart Santa Clara in the team’s first official conference game since joining the WCC. It did not fail to defy expectations, with the team winning 15-14 in triple-overtime, with senior team captain, Caleb Teraoka, netting the final goal to seal Santa Clara’s fate in the final quarter. The team was able to compete consistently throughout this slug match with Santa Clara, not just because they have a deep bench they can pull from, but because of the unselfish nature of the players. “We want to have a team game. We normally don’t want to have one person to score seven goals, it’s always gonna be spread out, so we wanna use our depth and a little bit more motion,” said Head Coach Kevin Rosa. “The motion isn’t necessarily to get that guy open, it may be to get that next guy open. They have to know, hey, I may have to work really hard and I’m not gonna get the stat but the team is gonna get the stat and that’s the most important thing.” It is not just a new year for the team, however, but the advent of a new conference that brings with it new opportuni-
ties and challenges for both the coaching staff and the team. However, they are more than confident that they can handle what lies ahead. Had the team stayed in the WWPA, they would have been playing against only Division Two schools and this was what partly led to the decision to switch conferences. “When the WCC decided to form a conference, we figured we needed to go with the other division one schools. We decided to step up to the plate and go to where the competition was going,” said Rosa. “[We’re] still with Santa Clara, LMU, and Air Force, which we’ve been very competitive with those three schools if you look back in the past, it always seems to be a onegoal game one way or another. So right where we need to be, in terms of competitive games, Caleb Teraoka, senior nursing major, takes an outside shot from the perimeter. we lost UC Davis and San Diego, who were the perennial kind prepare before a major confer- polo player. “We gained confiof WWPA champions, but we ence game such as this was an dence against it and were more gained Pacific and Pepperdine, opportunity not lost on Terao- comfortable when we saw it in who were the perennial kind of ka or the team, who had an es- the game. It felt very good being pecially personal able to beat them at home. In GCC champions.” grudge against my time at CBU, I had never lost Having this the team. kind of a line-up to Santa Clara before, so after “The first time we lost the first time, I did not with both new and we played Santa want to have the same feeling old faces, it was Clara, their de- again. I especially did not want important for the fense caught us to lose in front of our home team to stand out off guard. It is a crowd.” and make a stateunique defense ment, a concept Since the men’s water polo that only a few teams moved from the WWPA which the team teams in colle- to the WWC over the summer, certainly underKevin Rosa, giate water polo Santa Clara is merely a sample stood the importance of in their head water polo coach use, so we did not of what the team is expecting necessarily know to face off against this season in rematch against Santa Clara, especially after how to attack it effectively. In their new conference. having already played and lost the days leading up to the game, “Every team in our conagainst them once at the Over- we practiced different strate- ference is good, so we cannot night/MPSF Invitational in gies against this 4-2 defense,” overlook anyone,” said Bodhi September. Having the chance said Caleb Teraoka, senior Bowden, senior kinesiology to study your opponent and nursing major and men’s water major and water polo player.
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We decided to step up to the plate and go to where the competition was going.
Elijah Hickman | CBU Athletics “We can expect all games to be a back-and-forth struggle. It’s going to be a tough battle every game to win this season.” Bowden, who has seen this team grow and change through the different conferences the team has participated in, understands the importance of starting off strong. “Going into our first WCC game, I think we were more mentally prepared as a team. We knew this was a big game and we had to get the win. For me, I just try to stay positive, focused and keep my head in the game. It felt great being able to play Santa Clara again and being the first team to win a WCC match,” said Bowden. “I think the message it sent to other teams in the WCC is, ‘We’re ready to win the WCC Championship.’”
The “golden goal” of the game was a demonstration of not just the man who took the shot, but of the team’s determination and mental fortitude as a whole as they fight their way through the WCC to the top. Teraoka described those critical few seconds at the end of the game by saying, “Just before the beginning of sudden death, I looked over to the packed crowd and felt their energy and focus on the game. This gave me energy and motivation to finish this game as quickly as possible. Once we got the first possession, I knew this game was going to be done after the first 30 seconds. That shot I took, I have practiced many times. I was not nervous, but calm and confident that it was going to go in and the rest is history.”
Men’s and women’s swim season steams ahead BY HANNAH GORDON ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
The CBU swim and dive team consists of multiple teams, each putting in the work to create something incredible when they come together. Preparation for this season has involved more than just practice hours; the team has built strong relationships, grown individually and remained dedicated to personal responsibility. The CBU swim and dive team started the season with an impressive showing from both newcomers to the team and familiar faces. The four-team duel on Oct. 13 and 14 saw the CBU square off against Seattle University, GCU and Denver University, showcasing the team’s hard work in the off-season. This season the team has big goals with their eyes set on the NCAA Championships. While this goal is ambitious, the Swim and Dive team is up to the challenge. “[Our] biggest goal is to qualify athletes for the NCAA Championships at the end of
March,” said Jim Bossert, associate head coach for the swim and dive programs. “Last season we had our first two athletes, Remi Fabiani and Gael Jimenez, represent CBU at the NCAA Championships. We look to continue that going forward.” While the NCAA Championships have taken precedence in DI competition, the team still focuses on great performances in every WAC match they’re involved in. “A top two finish at the WAC Championship for our men is in the forefront of their mind as well as a top five finish for our ladies,” said Bossert. The CBU swim and dive team prioritizes their goals both in and out of the water. The captains of each team are taking personal responsibility to create relationships that make the team a supportive and uplifting environment. “As captain, I hope to build more team pride,” said Paul Rasoumoff, senior chemical engineering major, sprinter and captain of the men’s swim team. “I want the team to feel more
like a team than ever before, major, sprinter and captain of and I hope to see as many peo- the CBU women’s swim team, ple as possible put Christ at the who starts her preparation way center of their lives. We have a back in the spring. “Preparation for this season close group of guys, and I hope for me personally to build those starts as soon as relationships. I I finish WAC. Bewish to leave the ing international, team, having imwe swim all year proved the team round. So, reflectatmosphere and ing on how the set the men up season went and to dominate at taking all of that conferences this going forward into year and in years the long course to come.” [summer] season These goals not only makes me are reflected prepared for the across the board in the program Paul Rausoumoff, next season at CBU but also keeps me and demonstrate senior chemical in check,” Maspers the players’ comengineering major said. mitment not just With all this to winning but to preparation going into the seaeach other. As the CBU swim and dive son, the players and coaches team prepare for the season, alike are anticipating the upthey reflected on their previous coming competition. “Any time there is a chance training. Maintaining a consistent schedule year-round to race conference opponents is essential, especially when is a great meet that we look you have someone like Mia forward to,” said Bossert. “We Maspers, senior architecture have two invitationals this fall,
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I wish to leave the team having improved the team atmosphere and set the men up to dominate at conferences this year and in years to come.
Trailblazer Invite at Utah Tech have a phenomenal team chemNov 16-18 and the UNLV Invite istry and push each other every Dec 17-19, that we really use as a day to be the best they can be. stepping stone towards the con- The accomplishments throughference championships at the of out our program history rely on strength of our divers. On February.” The team has done well in the men’s side we have trementhe past and continues to per- dous depth in each event,” said Bossert. “For our form in-peak women’s swim conditions. Mia side, our strength Maspers reflected lies in the amount on this success. of talent and po“Our sport tential and trust sometimes gets our ladies have underappreciatMia Maspers, with themselves ed and forgotten senior architecture and one another. about. We have some great athmajor No women are left behind and letes on our team everyone is workwith some amazing talent. Swimmers and div- ing together towards the team’s ers made NCAA’s last year and common goal.” Though the team has many many of our swimmers break school and WAC records. It’s parts — swim, dive, men and CBU history being made, and women — they are one body. All parts function separately, down nobody recognizes it,” she said. Despite the challenges to the individual, to create a ahead, the swim team has a successful unit of a team. “There are no events where variety of strengths they hope to capitalize on this upcoming we see cracks or a weakness,” Bossert said. “Our roster is full season. “Strengths definitely in- of versatile and hungry athclude our diving team. They letes.”
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It’s CBU history being made, and nobody recognizes it.
BUSINESS & TECH Minimum wage for fast-food employees rises to $20, marking highest in nation 10
October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
BY CONNOR RYAN MANAGING EDITOR
Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed a bill to raise the minimum wage for fast-food employees to $20, marking the nation’s highest minimum wage, according to the Associated Press. The bill was signed Sept. 30 and will take effect in April 2024. The new law will be implemented throughout all California large fast-food chains (there must be at least 60 locations nationwide), according to a release from the governor’s office. Dr. Adele Harrison, professor of finance, said this law takes away the power of the corporation to decide wages based on their business model. While she expressed the importance of allowing existing fast-food workers a more sustainable income, she noted that raising the wages of newly hired fastfood employees is bound to create a chain reaction. “If I’m paying my person in the back that’s frying the burgers $20 an hour, then what am I going to have to pay the manager, the shift manager, and then the store manager?” Harrison said. “So every time you raise the wage for the lowest level on the rung, you effectively raise the rates for everybody.” Preston Thompson, junior civil engineering major and Provider employee, agreed that this hourly rate is similar to
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In-N-Out is one of the many fast-food chains that will be implementing the minimum-wage rise for employees in California. what managers receive. “Making $20 [at fast food] would be better than working jobs like retail or anything that pays minimum wage,” Thompson said. “Your payroll is pretty much like a manager’s pay.” Michael Meenan, senior software engineering major and supervisor at Provider, shared the same sentiment. He said that higher positions in fast food establishments should receive
higher pay since they require more effort and responsibility. “I would definitely advocate for my pay to increase as well as a supervisor,” Meenan said. “Having worked for four years to earn this title, I would still like to see my wage be higher than other coworkers, who haven’t earned the position and proved themselves to be as strong as a supervisor.” With the wage increase,
Harrison predicted that the price of fast-food items will do the same. If people need more money to work at these establishments, chains must implement changes to remain profitable. “They might start offering smaller portion sizes,” Harrison said. “Maybe instead of a quarter-pound burger, it’s just under a quarter-pound burger, but they’re going to charge you
the same amount.” Another byproduct of higher wages could be that chain restaurants will accelerate their integration of machinery instead of hiring more workers at a higher rate. “They’ve already been experimenting with more automation,” Harrison said. “In other words, not even really having anybody at the front to take orders, you just use a kiosk. Now
you’ve eliminated a worker after you’ve paid for that expense of the machinery.” However, this change may be what restaurants need to bring in more employees. Since the COVID-19 lockdown, many fast-food restaurants have struggled with labor shortages. “There’s been less interest in [fast food jobs] recently because people feel that there’s other ways they can provide for themselves,” Harrison said. “An inducement to get them to come back to the job would be to increase the wage rate or other benefits.” Harrison examined the dilemma from a Christian perspective, sharing how it relates to a skewed sense of morality that makes it challenging to regulate hourly rates. “Since you’re dealing with the fall of man, then that’s why the government comes in and tries to put parameters on behavior, because of the inclination to want the best for yourself,” Harrison said. “It’s really hard to make sure that happens and goes across the board.” As April draws closer, Harrison hopes that chains will find a way to implement this new law to benefit both customers and employees. “People just need to be prepared that things are only going to get more expensive over time,” Harrison said. “And so I would hope that they’re planning to budget appropriately.”
California loses $1 trillion within three years as major banks, big tech firms and businesses leave the state BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The impact of COVID-19 on the economy continues to be calculated, as recent reports from the Internal Revenue Service show that California has lost over $1 trillion in managed assets since 2020, according to an analysis by Bloomberg News. This loss for California comes as a result of businesses including Wall Street banks and big tech firms such as Oracle, HP Enterprise, Vrbo, Chevron, Charles Schwab and more moving to other states, especially Texas and Florida. Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of business administration, said that rising costs are an important factor businesses take into consideration. “The most common reason that businesses take the California exit tends to be to save money. California’s tax code is not considered to be busi-
BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Located 10 minutes from campus in the Magnolia Town Center, P.S. I Crepe You is the perfect spot for a sweet break. Latina owner Patricia Rodallegas opened the crepe shop only seven months ago, in April. Easily distinguishable, the shop serves an experience that starts immediately when you drive PHOTO CREDIT: PSICREPEYOU.COM
Texas, a popular destination for many of the migrated tech companies, has no income tax.
In comparison, California’s income tax rate ranges from 1% up to 13%, according to taxfoundation.com. Mia Pollock, sophomore marketing major, agreed that the pandemic played a role in our economy. “California is very expensive on its own. It is hard to live here without a strong income, therefore, to run a business out here is definitely difficult,” Pollock said. “Real estate, rent and living expenses are high, so our minimum wage is high. Inflation is a main contributor to these expensive prices. And the pandemic only added to this. People weren’t working, so they cannot afford to live here.” Lexzy Foroozandeh, junior business major, suggested that while rising costs can be a motivator, moving out of the state is not the solution. “Most likely businesses are moving because, as of now, other states are cheaper. However,
up and spot the pink sign and the pink seating out front. Once opening the door, guests are greeted not only by the servers but by the cloud-like marble flooring, a wall covered in pink flowers, pink tables, chairs, decorations and a pink telephone booth for photo ops. The menu steals attention as well, with eight sweet crepe choices at $11.95, five savory crepe choices at $13.78, and more than 15 choices of toppings and sauces if you want to build your own, starting at $8. The customer favorite is, of course, the Pink Crepe (Strawberry Crunch). Deserving of
the title, strawberries and lechera are stuffed into a pink batter-made crepe and topped with pink vanilla ice cream and strawberry crunch toppings. The ice cream balances the sweetness of the crepe and there are plenty of strawberries to pair with every bite. Other flavors of crepes include Churrisimo Cheesecake, S’mores, Bananas Over You and a Pizza Crepe. Additionally, specialty crepes are changed monthly. The current one is the Witches Brew crepe, a crepe made with purple batter, filled with Oreo cream cheese, green condensed milk and topped with chocolate
ness-friendly, and, in addition, there are high costs associated with running a business in California, including a high minimum wage,” Winter said. “All these costs add up. Of course, many observers note that the move was accelerated by the pandemic when many employees did work remotely. If businesses can have the same access to a talent pool (due to remote work) but can be headquartered in a more cost-friendly state, this is a win-win for the enterprise.”
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Inflation is a main contributor to these expensive prices.”
Mia Pollock, sophomore marketing major
if businesses keep migrating over to places like Texas and Florida, they’re going to find nearly the same issue as we have in California of insane pricing,” Foroozandeh said.
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Many observers note that the move was accelerated by the pandemic when many employees did work remotely.” Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of business administration
Foroozandeh added that she believes the loss in California’s assets is only temporary. “California has a huge population and much of the younger generation, especially millennials, are trying to create up-andcoming businesses,” Foroozan-
ice cream and sprinkles. To pair with a crepe, the drink selection is extensive. From an iced mazapan latte to a strawberry horchata latte, there is something for those who may want to experiment and for those who just want a regular black coffee. The varied and personalized menu allows customers to make their experience specifically tailored to their tastes. The customer service at P.S. I Crepe You is just as great as the menu. The servers are patient and accommodating and drinks and crepes are prepared quickly and usually served
deh said. “There’s always one of these businesses that stands out and provides more benefits than the others and that’s how a mainstream business is born. It’s a long-term process.” Winter also said she sees hope on the horizon. “It should be noted that there are some indications that the exit of residents is slowing, and I suspect that the exit of businesses will slow, too, Winter said. “Many organizations are finding that there is some benefit of employees being in the office, at least some of the time, which means they need to be located where they have access to the talent that they need for their business. If less people exit the state, fewer businesses will, as well.” Winter used Tesla as an example of a business that has already moved back. Tesla moved its headquarters to Texas in December 2021 but came back to California in February 2023,
according to Forbes. “Tesla was drawn back to California due to government incentives, but I am sure there is a tradeoff between how much businesses are incentivized and whether the additional tax revenue generated is worth it,” Winter said. There are plenty of other reasons California’s economy will be quick to recover, Foroozandeh pointed out, such as the draw of tourism. “We definitely make a lot of our income in California from anything in regards to the motion picture [industry],” Foroozandeh said. “However, there is day-to-day stuff that California provides, [like] a lot of trade services alongside transportation. Not to mention, our theme parks bring in immense amounts of income. Also, California is an amazing tourist state so a lot of businesses win from that alone, even small ones.”
within 10 minutes. However, the place can get busy, and finding seating can be difficult, as there are just two bar seats and four tables, so if you are getting your order during rush hour, it might be best to take it to-go.
day from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Find them on social media with accounts just as pink as the shop. On Instagram, they can be found at @psicrepeyou with a following of 8k and, under the same username on TikTok, they have 4k followers. Plus, they have a rewards app and if you sign up, you can buy one crepe and get another 50% off every weekday from 3–6.
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The varied and personalized menu allows customers to make their experience specifically tailored to their tastes.” P.S. I Crepe You is open Monday–Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday–Sun-
BUSINESS &TECH
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71· Issue 2
Musical experience for Deaf community enhanced by use of haptic vest technology BY ARIANNA BULTSMA
ASST. BUSINESS & TECH EDITOR Nearly 20% of the global population is deaf or hard of hearing, according to the World Health Organization. At the same time, music has a substantial positive impact on others across the globe. Music helps people form connections and bonds and should be able to be experienced by everyone. Deaf and hard-of-hearing inividuals have had different forms of consuming music. These forms include feeling vibrations in a variety of ways sign, language interpreters and performers who paint the picture of the music and song. Ways for the Deaf community to experience music existed since the 1990s, according to an article in Sunny Extra. However, in recent years, technological advances have developed in how they can experience sound even further. One of these new forms of hearing sound is called a haptic vest. This vest transmits different sounds as vibrations on the skin. Haptic vests will provide uses with physical stimuli, vibrations or motions. “This technology could be helpful for the Deaf and Hardof-Hearing (DHH) community if the vest has a differep-
place for each instrument, riff, rhythm, etc., to show a cohesive melody that hearing individuals would hear displaced by feeling vibrations,” said Prof. Jaclyn Long, adjunct professor. Music is a universal language that assists people in expressing themselves and understanding those around them on a deeper level. Music’s impact on a person’s life can change their life in a beneficial way. Madison Robinson, freshman music education major, said the haptic vest can give the Deaf community a more personal connection to music. “Music has had an incredible impact on my own life, and I think the more people it can reach, the better,” Robinson said. “With the invention of this vest, I really think the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community will be able to experience music in a much more personal, effective way through this creationand look forward to hearing specific occurrences of how this invention assists the community in experiencing music at a larger capacity.” A haptic vest can give deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals a new way of experiencing music like never before, as the vibrations of music are felt closer than ever before.
“So much of what makes music beautiful is the emotion it conveys, a sensation that is hard to achieve from the very basic fundamentals of music that can be experienced by the deaf and hard-of-hearing community without assistance, such as bass, percussion, and other vibration-based instruments and elements, without the use of specific technology, such as this vest,” Robinson said. Individuals can learn a variety of things from music. People can learn more about themselves, others and the world around them through music. “I also feel this could be helpful from an educational standpoint,” Long said. “It gives another opportunity for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals to learn about music.” Music is a beautiful way of showing emotion and connecting with other individuals. With the haptic vest, anyone can experience that feeling on an intense level. For the Deaf community, this is a long-term investment that will help give the community a connection to music that is greater than past known ways for their community to experience music as a whole and increases inclusivity.
The Van Buren Drive-In Theatre in Riverside is one of the few remaining of its kind in the area. Elon Musk plans to introduce a new drive-in theater in Los Angeles with a ’50s-style diner and Tesla Superchargers.
Lindsey Stumpf | Banner
Tesla begins construction on its first electric drive-in theater in Hollywood BY ARIANNA BULTSMA
ASST. BUSINESS & TECH EDITOR Tesla is branching out from electric vehicles and into the places where their drivers park — and charge — them. The idea of a Tesla drive-in theater and diner was brought to the public in 2018 after CEO Musk tweeted about it. “Gonna put an old school drive-in, roller skates, and rock restaurant at one of the new Tesla Supercharger Locations in Los Angeles,” Musk tweeted in 2018. Recently, the project got approved for construction. Tesla announced on their website that construction began at the end of September.
Musk tweeted in the beginning of August that Teslas futuristic diner should be open later this year. Teslas’s Diner will replace the Shakey’s Pizza Parlor on Santa Monica Boulevard near West Hollywood, and the design will be similar to a classic ’50s diner. Since it will be located in Los Angeles, the diner can bring in locals as well as tourists. From Tesla’s filed construction plans with the city, expect to see a semi-circular, two-story structure with two movie theater screens and 32 Supercharger stalls. Tesla can bring in those who own Tesla vehicles as well as those who are looking for the nostalgia of an old-school diner
and drive-in theater. Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of business administration, pointed out the positive aspects that might bring in customers. “The appealing aspect of the drive-in theater is that it ties into what their brand is known for, since you can charge your electric car while watching a movie, dining, etc.,” Winter said. Combining Supercharger stations and something extra like food and entertainment increases convenience. Freshman marketing major, Jasmine Hernandez, said she is intrigued by the concept. “The marketing aspect really stands out to me,” Hernandez said. “Tesla made an exclusive
product with benefits to their consumers. This is an exciting way to get more people to join the Tesla nation, and it’s fascinating.” Opening a drive-in theater is a good business move for Tesla, according to an article from CNN, as drive-in theaters regained popularity as social distancing became important during COVID-19. However, Winter wondered how the company would keep customers returning. “Can Tesla create a significantly unique experience for people that will create a sustainable and lasting appeal for this new enterprise?” Winter said. “In other words, once the newness has faded, what will
keep people coming back?” One of the ways Tesla is planning on doing this might be leaning on the popular appeal of nostalgia. Those who lived through the boom of drive-in theaters can re-live that moment, and those who have not can experience it with this diner. Hernandez explained how the diner will combine oldschool and modern aesthetics. “The car users get to come to a place full of fun and charge their vehicles while they’re at it. It’s a great idea,” Hernandez said. “Tesla is bringing back an old-school idea with a futuristic twist.” Winter agreed that nostalgia is an important aspect.
“I think Tesla is counting on a nostalgia appeal for this venture,” Winter said. “My guess is that Elon Musk was to create an association between people’s memories of ‘simpler times’ with the innovation normally associated with the brand.” It is important for Tesla to have the experience of the diner to create a lasting appeal for consumers. It is more than likely many people will come in during the first few months. But if Tesla is able to create something where people return again and again, it could be the next big spot for entertainment and food, especially among those who are already looking to charge their Tesla vehicles.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
12 Hispanic rep. Continued from Page 1 kid, I feel like that’s what I tried to do — to not be noticed.” While there are individuals and organizations within the Hispanic community who are actively working to improve representation, according to a study by Nielsen, “Hispanic audiences are 19% more likely than the general population to
October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
say they feel underrepresented in TV and films.” Data from Gracenote Inclusion Analytics show Hispanics had an 8.5% share of screens in streaming content in the first half of 2023, which is well below their representation in the U.S. population. Jessia Espinosa, junior Spanish major, considered the effectiveness of film and TV remakes that recast the leads
as people of color, as opposed to telling original stories about communities of color. “I feel like it’s changing the story just to represent people, but it’s not done in the best way,” Espinosa said. “It could be way better if they just made their own storyline, their own characters, own princesses, because you can do it in a wonderful and beautiful way that just represents Hispanics.”
“I’m very proud to be Hispanic,” Alvarez said. “I feel [it’s] a necessity that CBU educates and caters more to the Hispanic portion of its student body, because it’s going continue growing.” CBU has noted the increase of the Hispanic population on campus and among the commuter population, and the university received a grant of $3 million on Oct. 18 from the U.S.
Department of Education that will aid in Hispanic student success. According to CBU’s website, “The goals in this plan include closing equity gaps in student learning and success; obtaining funding to address the Hispanic student achievement gap; implementing faculty training and resources; and increasing under-represented minority students’ perceptions of be-
longing on campus,” according the statement. As of fall 2022, CBU’s student population is just over 40% Hispanic and Latino, with steady increases in recent years, according to the university’s office of Institutional Research. “CBU does a good job of involving different cultures,” Espinosa said. “So far, they are doing an awesome job.”
Preparation for upcoming theater productions in full swing GABI RIGGIN A&E EDITOR
The pressures of preparing for a production is no match for the California Baptist University’s theater program. Students and faculty involved in putting on productions for the student body face many challenges while preparing for their shows. Directors and the cast and crew go through a week of rehearsals and time is spread thin, especially for the director. “I think as a director, you get used to an expected level of stress as you near opening,” said Zachary Bortot, associate professor of theater and director of “Frankenstein.” “In theater, we refer to ‘tech week’ [the week of dress rehearsals prior to opening a show] as ‘hell week’ because the process can be slow, tedious, and keep us late into the evening. But I think if you plan and prepare, this process does not have to be chaotic or painful. I’ve been very blessed by the ‘Frankenstein’ cast, crew and designers who have made this process painless.” Preparation for the show can look different for each role that goes into making a production run smoothly, from the director and actors to the tech team and costume and makeup team. The work that gets put in behind the scenes makes for a good show. “Research for a theater practitioner can be very enjoyable,” Bortot said. “I started by reading the script but then dove into the history of Mary Shelley and all the works that were inspired by her novel. I read the novel and watched the classic horror movies, as well as more recent takes. I consumed music from the time period, as
well as works of art that connected to the piece.” For actors, the workload is different when preparing for a show. “The audition consists of a monologue, usually around a minute to a minute and a half in length, and a song, I think it’s 16 bars of a song,” said Alec Abraham, senior theater major. “And for each season that we do it, there are different requirements. So, for instance, when we were doing ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ the required song had to be from a Disney movie or a Disney musical.” Abraham explained the audition process and how the prep for it differs according to the play. Some shows would require an actor or actress to change their hair color or even the length of their hair. “A lot of the time for shows, you have to change your appearance, whether that’s getting a haircut or growing out different facial hair than you usually have,” Abraham said. Backstage actors and actresses practice for their scenes by getting into costume and preparing to bring their characters to life. “It’s hard to do a show and make it entertaining if you are tired. So we do energy exercis-
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I pray that we remember that we’re doing this for an audience of one, and that’s for God. Alec Abraham, senior theater major
es together. Once I’m fully in costume and in character, waiting to go on, I just pray for ev-
Charissa Graves | Banner
A camera operator takes video footage of Kaleb Bravo, sophomore film major, and Alexandra Kuebler, freshman theater major, dancing as The Creature and Female Creature in CBU’s production of “Frankenstein.” eryone...I pray that we remember that we’re doing this for an audience of one, and that’s for God,” Abraham said. CBU’s theater is transforming the landscape of both theater and community in the way it engages with an entire production team for a show. Not only do the students have the support of the faculty but they also have the support of each other. “One thing that is really, really nice about CBU theater, specifically, that I haven’t experienced in all other theater companies and schools and stuff that I have performed in is CBU theater does something called community time every Tuesday before rehearsals,” Abraham said. “Even the people that aren’t in a show, we all still get to know each other. There’s maybe like 30 to 40
theater majors at CBU.” Students are not limited to being actors and actresses in a CBU production. They can be a part of the backstage crew and work in places such as tech and costuming. Aside from his performing roles, Nicholas Hernandez, senior theater major, has participated in many other roles across several productions and experienced different aspects of a show’s overall production, including lighting for “Cinderella” and “The Wizard of Oz,” as well as costuming for “Godspell.” Some stressful aspects of production, he said, are the moments between scenes when the setting shifts. “I would probably say the one that was most stressful for me was costumes and the lighting board,” Hernandez
said. “So costumes is [stressful] because when you have to deal with quick changes. It’s scary because you need to hurry up and get them into costume before they get on. [With the] lighting board, you have to click a button. It’s super easy, but if you click the wrong button and change the lights to something else, it could mess up the whole thing.” When preparing for roles, Hernandez said he had a different approach to getting into character, with the help of the director. “When I was performing, I would try and read whatever play I was doing, and then find an actual performance, whether it was like a movie or a performance on YouTube or a professional performance,”Hernandez said. “And then, normally, the director
will give out a sheet that you could fill out that will get you to answer questions about your character.” One of the unique things about preparing for a show at CBU is that they take the time to pray with one another before heading on stage. “Zach [Bortot] is the director and he’s also a professor. He prays for us while we’re all in a circle holding hands,” Hernandez said. “And then, while he’s doing that, we also do a breath prayer. We inhale and we say ‘God,’ and then we exhale.” Behind the scenes at CBU, there is a community working hard to put on a successful show for the audience, all while glorifying God and being in fellowship with one another. The next production, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” will premiere in April.
Artist faculty series highlights musicality of professors BY SARAH MURPHY ASST. A&E EDITOR
Music appreciation is a crucial part of our culture. While walking through campus, students typically have earbuds in their ears, listening to their favorite tunes. However, nothing compares to live music, especially when CBU’s own professors perform. CBU presented its first Artist Faculty Series, which featured a piano performance by Dr. Andrés Jaramillo, director of Keyboard Studies. The recital consisted of various works by Bach, Haydn, Rachmaninoff and other composers, as well as Colombian works from Jaramillo’s home country. Gabby Vivona, junior instrumental performance major, attended the recital to show her support for Jaramillo as her professor. “I’m always surprised by just how many lives Dr. Jaramillo has touched. He had family, friends, students, mentors, peers, and faculty in that recital,” Vivona said. “It was a packed house, so much so that there had to be chairs set up behind him on the stage used for another rehearsal so that more people could fit in the room.” To prepare for the Artist
Faculty Series, Jaramillo had to play complex pieces by memory for almost two hours. “I tried to prepare all three things: body, mind, and heart in different ways,” Jaramillo said. As expected, he practiced for a few hours every day, but his heart preparation had a unique element to it. “When you are an artist and you have Jesus Christ as Lord, you have a double advantage,” Jaramillo said. “He is my creator, but he’s the creator of the composer as well. So I can talk to him on that level, like, ‘Lord, what was Beethoven thinking when he wrote this, or Chopin, or Bach?’ So that’s how I prepare my routines usually.” The second half of Jaramillo’s recital featured “Pictures at an Exhibition” by M. Mussorgsky, which lasted 35 minutes. Jaramillo decided to showcase this piece because it reflected aspects of his life. “Those pieces that I chose describe very well my journey of life with my wife and kids, and all the struggles that they had when they were babies with their health,” Jaramillo said. “My own challenges in life, the fact that I am an immigrant, a Colombian person coming to the US to live here and develop my career and
Madison Sardana | Banner Dr. Andrés Jaramillo, director of keyboard studies at CBU, performs at CBU’s piano recital. studies here — each piece has a little bit of that.” Ten years ago, Jaramillo was teaching at two universities in Colombia but moved to the US to complete his master’s at Eastern Washington University. He then earned his DMA degree n Piano Performance at the University of Southern California. In addition to teaching at CBU, Jaramillo
has performed internationally in South America, South Africa, Spain and China, as well as throughout the US. “I always share with my students that I’m not at the center of the concert — I’m just one instrument,” Jaramillo said. “The center of the concert is the creator of the music. He pours below his spirit through the pianist or the artist, and
I just give to the people what they need to hear. In other words, I’m the spoon and he’s the soup.” Jaramillo chose to combine both of his passions — performing and teaching — and it paid off in how students and non-students alike came to the recital to enjoy a powerful live performance. “His love for his students is
shown through his music,” Vivona said. Marissa Norheim, senior biology major, attended the Faculty Artist Series since she enjoys listening to classical music performances in her free time. “Anyone who is looking to broaden their horizons or their likes for music would enjoy it, or even just to go for the free hang-out on campus with good music,” Norheim said. There will be a total of five performances put on by professors in the Faculty Artist Series this year. The second performance will be Nov. 4, and other dates are to be announced. These upcoming recitals will consist of different instruments, which is the perfect opportunity for students to become more well-rounded in the musical world. “Every time I play for students, I feel that I’m teaching as well as sharing,” Jaramillo said. “I like to demonstrate all those elements of music that I try to teach in the classroom, but in real life through music, not through words only. And that’s the best reward for me — observing them, how they enjoy the recital, their feedback and their comments afterward. They make me feel I’m living my purpose.”
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
Pink on Parade raises funds for breast cancer awareness BY SARAH MURPHY ASST. A&E EDITOR
Every two minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. That means every 1 in 8 women in the US will be diagnosed in their lifetime. On Oct. 21, Mt. Rubidoux turned pink as people dressed head-to-toe in the color and attended Riverside’s annual Breast Cancer Awareness walk, known as Pink on Parade. This is the 12th year that the event has been hosted and its popularity has skyrocketed as crowds came to honor those affected. According to
pinkonparade.com, in last year’s walk there was a total of 700 participants, with 15% of those participants being breast cancer survivors. Jenny Lee, an attendee at the event, hiked with her co-workers who are also nurses that sponsor Neighborhood Healthcare. They perform preventative screening at their clinic to detect breast cancer early enough so those affected can get the treatment that they need. “We wanted to be a part of this event even if we don’t have a family member at home who is suffering from breast cancer,” Lee said. “But we do have a new member of
our clinic who actually does have a history of breast cancer and we’re here to support.” The walk was only a few hours but it made a differencfor those in need. Many indi-
The Pink Ribbon Place. This program provides free wigs, breast prostheses, education and counseling services to help those directly affected by cancer in the community. Pink Ribbon Place is a part of the Riverside Community Health Foundation and has helped those impacted by cancer Rosemary Wick, in Riverside and Pink on Parade attendee surrounding areas by providing these services at no cost. viduals and teams fundraised Crystal Valenti, an attendfor the event, with 100% of ee at Pink on Parade, chose to the proceeds going towards walk for her grandma, who has
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“Anything we can do now to improve our ability to someday find a cure for this is a worthy cause.
been diagnosed with breast cancer. “They raise funds for research and helping families that need resources for when they’re struggling or when their family is struggling with cancer,” Valenti said. “And it’s not just for breast cancer, it’s for all cancers.” Some unexpected friendships were formed as women joined together to support other women who are suffering. Rosemary Wick, an attendee at the event, was with a group she had just met. “So this is my first time meeting these ladies, and this forum creates an avenue for camaraderie and the ability to
come together for an awesome cause,” Wick said. “Anything we can do now to improve our ability to someday find a cure for this is a worthy cause.” In the month of October, millions of people, including various types of cancer survivors, raised money for the American Cancer Society through events similar to Pink on Parade. Funds from these kinds of events are lifesaving. According to Local 10 News, due to the amount of awareness that was spread about breast cancer, more women are encouraged to get annual mammograms for early detection and diagnosis of the disease.
Lavender fields illuminate the night GABI RIGGIN A&E EDITOR
Lavender Nights is open at the 123 Farm, which is about about 45 minutes away from campus, and it has already caught the attention of California Baptist University students. Aug. 24 to Oct. 29, Thursdays through Mondays from 5-10 p.m., Lavender nights are open. Students on campus took advantage of the opportunity to pile into their cars and head out for a night filled with lavender bliss. During the autumn season and following their summer festival, the lavender blooms
come to an end and 123 Farm ensures that the harvest is not wasted. Lights fill the fields for Lavender Nights. “We’ll be lighting up a part of our lavender fields and our century-old olive grove so you can stroll through the romance and history of our farm. We’ll have lavender sweets and drinks available, as well as a full dinner menu with items fresh off the grill,” 123 Farm stated on its website. During Lavender Nights, the farm lights up their fields with over 300,000 lights. They also have dogs roaming the fields who interact with the guests and a tractor ride that takes visitors to their 1000-year-old
oak tree. “So I kind of figured it was going to be one of those things where you show up, and there’s beautiful lavender and you walk through and then you call it a day,” said Peyton Bell, junior English major. “When we pulled up for the first time, there was live music playing and lights everywhere and so much good food and just so many fun things that you could do. I was almost overwhelmed,” Bell said. The trending farm caught the eye of many CBU students and kept them engaged in the experience upon their arrival at the lavender farm. “It just felt very magical,”
said Mckenna Williams, sophomore public relations major. “It felt like a different world. I can’t even explain it, but it just felt like a fairy tale. And yeah, I just loved all the lights that
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It just felt very magical.
Mckenna Williams, sophomore public relations major were coming through. Every part of it was lit up.” The lavender-filled experience immersed the visitors with string lights and activities around the event, which in-
EDITOR’S REVIEW BY GABI RIGGIN I A&E EDITOR
Arctic Monkeys performed at the Kia Forum in Inglewood on Sept. 30 for the second of three sold-out nights in the city. The highly anticipated “The Car” tour finally made its rounds towards Los Angeles, as cars flooded the arena’s parking lot hours before the event began. The Arctic Monkeys merchandise booth and quotes posted on pillars had fans lined up for photo ops and purchases until their opening act, Fontaines DC, a band from Dublin, Ireland, took the stage. Their sound and style are similar to the Arctic Monkeys, considering they also play alternative punk and indie rock. Their act lasted until 8:45 p.m., with the Arctic Monkeys finally arriving on the stage at 9:10 p.m. The anticipation ate at the crowd as the figures of each band member appeared through the darkness. Arctic Monkeys started the concert with “Sculptures
of Anything Goes.” The music blared out in the stadium with just the beat and then the guitars and at that moment, the crowd knew that Alex Turner and his bandmates Matt Helders, Jamie Cook and Nick O’Malley were about to serenade them. The band transitioned between their songs smoothly and turned the lights down low while playing instrumentals of the next song, leaving the fans guessing what would come. Arctic Monkeys played a few of the songs from their newest album, “The Car,” such as the opening song “Bodypaint” as well as “There’d Better Be a Mirrorball.” Along with these songs, the band played a mixture of their most beloved songs from multiple of their older albums. As the band performed each song, the audience’s excitement continued to escalate. Songs like “Snap Out of It” from the album “AM,” “Crying
Lightning” from “Humbug” and a personal favorite, “Arabella,” which is also from “AM,” along with “Knee Socks,” were accompanied by vibrant stage lighting that filled the room with color. This lighting set the tone for the performance, allowing the audience to witness Turner and the band in largerthan-life proportions on the big screens. The guitar solos for “Crying Lighting” and “Brianstorm” were even more surreal to hear in person. One of the most significant moments of the show was when they played “There’d Better Be a Mirrorball” and toward the end of the song dropped an actual mirrorball that spun and lit up the crowd with lights. The disco ball stayed down for the following few songs. The following tracks were “505” from the album “Favorite Worst Nightmare” and “Do I Wanna Know” from their album “AM,” two of their most popular songs everyone recognizes from the first note.
cluded a walk through the trees and a gift shop with everything lavender. Bell discussed the yearly traditional visit to the lavender farm after her initial experience. “I think it’s always good to get off campus and do things with your friends because it’s just really cool to explore the surrounding area of Riverside and San Bernardino,” Williams said. “I remember when we were driving there, I was looking at the mountains, and I was like, wow, it’s just so pretty around here.” The lavender farms are seen as a place for photo ops and Bell was pleasantly surprised
that her experience turned out to be far greater than just a few pictures. “I kind of viewed it more as a prop than anything else,” Bell said. “Like, oh, well, I go and get dressed up and have a nice time and take pictures with the beautiful flowers. And so again, I think I was not expecting it to be more of an experience than a photo op. And so that’s what has brought me back every year since.” Whether it is for relaxation or simply a break from the academic routine, this charming lavender farm offers an enriching experience that can leave an impression and create lasting memories.
Arctic Monkeys “The Car” Tour 2023
While everyone in the Forum was singing along, Turner, true to his style, decided to put his unique spin on it, causing the crowd to temporarily lose their sense of harmony. This humbling experience reminded us that, like always, he will interpret the songs in his own way, yet our affection for him remains unwavering. After all, he is the lead singer, and that’s precisely what makes him special. The show was about to end as Turner told the fans how much he loved them and thanked them for the night. The lights went off and the band walked off stage. Cheers from every direction began filling the stadium. Fans, left in awe of the soulful indie rock band, cheered, screamed and cried for five minutes until the encore finally began. Alex Turner said “This one goes out to Amelia,” and blared the iconic intro of “I Wanna Be Yours,” which felt
Zackery Michael via Black Arts PR like one of those slow-motion grand entrances only seen in movies. As the introduction to the next song “I Bet You Look Good on The Dancefloor,” a beloved track from their earlier album “Whatever People Say I am, That’s What I’m Not,” Turner announced the song with the phrase “Lock it in.” Instantly, vibrant lights burst forth, perfectly complementing the electrifying punk energy of the song. They ended the night on a high note with “R U Mine,” also from “AM.” The upbeat song
didn’t take away from one of the saddest parts of the evening: saying goodnight to the Arctic Monkeys. The crowd cheered and waved them off the stage one by one. The band left their fans feeling joyful and satisfied as they left the Kia Forum. They truly put on a show and cause the following days after seeing them to feel different, a post-concert nostalgia. In the car, you’ll be blasting the music and increasing the bass to get that feeling of seeing them live again. Trust me.
SPORTS Soccer looks ahead to repeat greatness 14
BY MICHAEL MARKS SPORTS EDITOR
Soccer is a tough sport for a variety of reasons, but especially because players have to run constantly, day after day, mile after mile, in games and in practice. To have a team compete time and time again in the season is truly special and the CBU women’s soccer team is one such team that goes above and beyond this standard, as they are currently undefeated in the Western Athletic Conference. “I’m really impressed with our team’s grit and heart this season,” said Head Coach Kristin St. Clair. “Those two qualities, coupled with a high work rate, has helped us overcome adversity and earn the points we have needed this season. Additionally, our players have done a tremendous amount of work off the field to better themselves and our team. From strength and conditioning with Coach Jason Quan in the APC (Athletic Performance Center), extra voluntary work with the coaches and spending time refining their skill set outside team training.” Sometimes there are factors out of the team or coach’s control that can affect play, most notably the uptick in ties across the board in the WAC this year. “No, it’s not typical to have so many ties, however, many of our attacking players have gone through a lot of adversity with injuries this fall,” St. Clair said. “Last year, the NCAA changed the rules that games no longer go to golden goal for player safety and overall better periodization, which is one of the
October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
main contributors to the increase in ties across the entire soccer landscape. I believe this year alone, there have been 33 across the entire WAC Conference.” Any sport, especially a long and grueling one like soccer, can be punishing on the body. It is just as important for a team to have a support system for the players as it is to recruit the right kind of players. With good support in place, players can focus on other, more pressing issues with their game. “As a coaching staff, we try to manage the players’ workload during the week in between games. We have a good schedule rotation of training days, game days, rest and recovery days. We want to maintain the routine we’ve set up to help us prepare for each upcoming game and continue to prepare to compete Elijah Hickman | CBU Athletics for the WAC championship,” St. CBU’s women’s soccer team pours buckets of water over their coach after their Aug. 17 win against the University of California, Riverside. Clair said. Both the coaching staff and the team have worked to main- the group we have this season, the sole standout scorer on the beyond soccer. ing ways to close the gap and tain this upbeat, positive atti- so we all use that to motivate team. “When a team isn’t united overcome ties that have plagued “We have a very talent- and doesn’t trust each other, their season. tude towards the season and each other and hold each other to high stan- ed group this year, which has it shows,” said Summer Allen, its success. Most “We just need to clean up dards, which been seen through not only our sophomore business admin- some little details. Making sure importantly, the leads to our suc- starting 11 but also through the istration major and women’s everyone refines their 1v1 deteam made a point cess,” said Raine depth of our team. We have had soccer player. “I really appre- fending, touch, passes, shots, to start off strong Clark, sopho- so many different people step ciate everyone this year and etc. The game of soccer is not and hold each othmore health sci- up this year and make a differ- how much work people put into complex and the best teams win er to that higher ence major and ence when we needed it most, making this team a good and because they can play a simple, standard that they women’s soccer which I think shows the resil- safe environment. You can see it clean game. It really is about goknow they are caiency and determination of this in the way this team plays self- ing back to the basics and solidplayer. pable of. Part of the program,” said Clark. “To start off lessly. As a defender, I have to ifying the style we want to play,” It is not enough to just mo- trust my other defenders to get said Allen. reason for this the season, our Kristin St. Clair, success is the tivate teammates or even to be the job done. Without that, we team came toThe team is more than prea talented player. As shown in unselfi sh nature gether and made pared as they ready themselves wouldn’t be successful. I have women’s soccer head sports time and time again, no so much faith in my fellow de- for the Western Athletic Conof the players, goals that we coach a quality that matter how good a team is, they fenders and goalkeeper that it ference Tournament, where wanted to accomplish every day throughout our seems to be harder and harder will inevitably fail if they lack gives me confidence to perform they will have the home-field time together. Everyone on the to find in athletes, especially at good chemistry. What this team and focus on my job.” advantage for the duration of team knows the potential of a time when players want to be has built with each other goes The team is constantly seek- the playoffs.
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We have a good schedule rotation of training days, game days, rest and recovery days.
Mental endurance keeps athletes ahead of the curve BY MICHAEL MARKS SPORTS EDITOR
Endurance, skill, strength. These among various other physical qualities are often times believed to be the only things needed to make a great athlete. It would be a fatal mistake for any athlete, however, to disregard the mental aspect of sports. Many pro athletes utilize mind games to gain an edge, even if it was something as simple as Lance Stephenson blowing into Lebron James’ ear during game five of the 2014 NBA Eastern Conference Finals. Understanding the role psychology plays behind our wins and losses can make all the difference in a season that has either hit a wall or risks falling from greatness. By understanding ourselves better we can make necessary adjustments in our mentality, whether in practice or a game. This is where the concept of control theory and motivation meet. “This would be based on control theory,” said Dr. Kristin Mauldin, director of the masters of sport and performance psychology program. “It’s this idea that when it feels like it’s within our reach, we’re more motivated to go towards it so that would lead to an increase in motivation. When you get far away enough from it, you can almost become despondent. You can get angry and frustrated. You see those erratic plays. They’ll take risks sometimes: the hail Mary comes out of that. That’s true on both an individual and team level.” The complexities of the mind can affect players even in the middle of a game. “If you exceed the goal or you feel like you’ve already reached it, we actually become demotivated,” Mauldin said. “Sometimes you’ll see that in
a game too, where a team feels can happen at any given time like they’re doing fine and during the match,” said Colton they’re almost unable to kick Silva, junior nursing major their motivation back into and wrestler. “I just take the gear because they’ve become match one point at a time. demotivated. That’s what When you are down in score, control theory would say about you just really have to keep your composure and not let the that.” Seeing just how much the opponent get in your head.” Remembering the people mental aspect is involved in sports, having practical ways who helped get athletes to for athletes to strengthen this point in their sport can themselves mentally is key to also be a great motivator and having a successful year overall. is a perfect example of playing “It’s really focusing on for something bigger than growth versus a fixed mindset. themselves. “Swim is a unique sport as it It’s really focusing on how their performance ties to their own is more of an individual sport,” past performance,” Mauldin said Tania Brooks, sophomore said. Not focusing so much on film major and women’s the overall win but on how good swimmer. “Only one person they can do at their individual races in a lane at a time but we roles and even if they need to have a whole team and school within that, like, I’m gonna we represent and supporting really work on this particular us. Every time we dive in for a throw, or I’m gonna see if I can race we are not only swimming for ourselves but for the team really get this one [shot] in.” How do the athletes on our caps.” With such long seasons themselves tackle the challenge of dealing with the mental side at the collegiate level, it can of their sports? After all, many be hard to stay focused all games move fast in the moment the time. Knowing who you and it can be tough to keep up can rely on can be almost as with making adjustments on important as the training itself, as no one wins the fly. Each sport a championship offers pros and alone. cons in regard to “Sometimes, this concept. when you get “An edge that to that rough wrestling has patch in the over other sports season, you have is that I know I’ll to reach out to only be on that your teammates mat for seven and have them minutes and lift you up,” Silva knowing, I just Colton Silva, said. “I think that need to give it all for seven minutes Junior nursing major if you constantly can be a relief and wrestler put yourself in tough positions, compared to some you will become other sports that might have a longer game,” said more comfortable with being Chaz Hallmark, senior finance uncomfortable, building your mental toughness. What I do in major and wrestler. Pushing forward is a wrestling to keep up mentally all the time is just do my best; hallmark trait of any athlete. “You can’t let the little there is nothing to be mad mistakes bother you, especially about or upset about if you give in wrestling because anything it your all.”
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When you are down in score, you just really have to keep your composure and not let the opponent get in your head.
OPINION
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October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
LANCER ON THE STREET What is the best advice you have ever received?
Izzy Franco Freshman Christian studies major
Justice Eriksen Junior Electrical and computer engineering major
“Don’t worry about tomorrow for today is worry enough for itself.”
“Sleep is the cornerstone of a good day.”
Amberly Garcia Senior Creative writing major
Emma Totaro Senior Creative writing major
Alejandro Rueda Jr. Sophomore Pre-nursing major
“When learning a language, do something small every day.”
“God is going to use me wherever I go.”
“Don’t change who you are for the people around you.”
You don’t need to have an opinion
BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
America is a heavily divided country. According to Pew Research Center, “Republicans and Democrats are more divided along ideological lines than at any point in the last two decades.” NBC News released an article titled, “Americans are divided over everything but division.” Division doesn’t only mean politics. People get into strong debates over whether pineapple should belong on pizza, who should’ve won the
Oscar, if SATs are truly effective and whether “the dress” was actually blue or gold. Many of these controversial topics are fueled by social media, illustrated by a study by Research Gate titled “Social media contributes to greater division.” Social media creates an illusion that people are correct in any and all of their opinions because it gives the user control. If you post that green is the best color, and someone comments that green is the color of vomit, you can simply delete the comment or block the person. No further discussion is necessary; you are correct. Additionally, you can choose only to follow accounts such as @GreenisSuperior and @NoColorBetterThanGreen. The green haters are out of sight and out of mind. However, my point isn’t that social media is bad. My point is
that social media is like a cherry on top of our ice cream sundae culture. As long as you are persistent and loud enough when ordering, you can get whatever ice cream sundae you want. Isn’t that what we’re taught? If you stay quiet and wind up with a different flavor, that’s on you. Next time, be bolder. But what if next time comes and, oh no, you’re indecisive? The horrors. Well, if you are indecisive, that just means you clearly have no idea who you are. You should go home and do some soul searching and come back when you know and are so sure you have not an ounce of hesitation in you about what flavor you will enjoy. This is the status quo. I disagree. The pushing for and the appraisal of having definite, strong opinions about absolutely everything is hinder-
ing our society and it is what is causing our division. Instead of being incentivized to have an opinion about everything immediately because it says something about who we are as a person if we don’t, we should be pushed to learn. There are many studies that have been conducted that find a correlation between social media and depression, such as those done by HelpGuide.org and ChildMind.org. According to apnorc.org, almost 60% of social media users have needed to take a break at one time or another from their platform. I am one of these people. I have gone through multiple accounts because I get overwhelmed and tired of people just using platforms to get a pat on the back, saying things like, “I believe this, and if you don’t, unfollow me,” or, “If you agree, swipe up.”
People don’t want to interact with you if you are unsure of something. In other words, if you don’t strongly have an opinion one way or the other, you don’t matter. It’s time to normalize saying, “I don’t know.” It’s time to normalize being quiet. Why? Because we are capable. We are capable of being able to listen to and process millions of ideas, thoughts, concepts, and beliefs and still remain true to our own identity. Holding back, even temporarily, allows us the ability to grow. It can be hard to hear something we don’t like. It can be hard to hear something that we’ve never heard before. But we are smart beings made in the image of God, which allows us the capacity to learn endlessly. Proverbs 18:15 says, “The heart of the discerning acquires
knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” Opinions are good — to a point. It’s when the concept of having an opinion is more important than the reasoning behind the opinion that it becomes a problem. And not having an opinion about everything does say something about you. It says that you trust yourself and have so much confidence in who you are that you don’t need to broadcast a thoughtless opinion to the world to affirm it. You can simply sit and listen to others, learn, and blossom into becoming a person who one day does have a lot of varied opinions — all curated over time with care, education and patience. If we all tried this, we could genuinely change the world — or at least make it a little less divisive.
Social media is killing Everyone should know how to cook our attention spans BY CONNOR RYAN MANAGING EDITOR
If you say you have never engaged with short-form content, you’re probably lying. Almost every college student has had TikTok downloaded on their phone. Even if they do not, they have been exposed to Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts at some point. According to a recent survey by BestColleges.com, 82% of college students use TikTok on a regular basis. Over the past few years, online content has dramatically shifted toward shorter content. Because of this, we are constantly exposed to this short-form content, which is taking a toll on our attention span. Short-form content is content that can be consumed within minutes or seconds. The medium first became popularized back in 2013, when the popular video-sharing site Vine was created. Vine stood out from other platforms because it only allowed users to post videos that were six seconds long. Over time, this model proved unsustainable, but it would set the precedent for TikTok’s online takeover in 2018. TikTok built a name for itself with its simple user interface and sophisticated “For You” page that would show each user videos based on their niche interests.
This concept is what I believe has led many to become addicted to short-form content. These apps know exactly what we like, meaning we constantly receive dopamine when interacting with content on platforms like TikTok or Instagram Reels. This hyper-personalized form of engagement is designed to keep users on the site for as long as possible.
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Short form content can become a crutch, making it difficult for people to focus on essential tasks.”
Thus, short-form content can become a crutch, making it difficult for people to focus on essential tasks. This can be visualized in the scientifically proven instant gratification cycle. The process always starts with a difficult task that needs to be accomplished. However, when one hits a roadblock, they feel the urge to do something else. They then turn to something that will provide them with instant dopamine, which will make them feel rewarded. One way this applies to students is when they have a homework assignment that must be done but don’t enjoy working on it, causing them to open up TikTok. I believe that most young people turn to short-form content in these situations. TikTok is perhaps the most
low-effort resource for instant dopamine. As soon as you open the app, a video starts playing without the user having to do anything. The app already provides dopamine before the user is even aware it is happening. This is often true of YouTube as well, as occasionally the mobile app will automatically open on the Shorts tab. These apps encourage people to spend less and less effort engaging with content, which many users will translate to other areas of their lives. If one is constantly engaging with short-form content, they will eventually become dependent on that constant flow of dopamine they receive. Because dopamine is a hormone associated with motivation, this overload of dopamine dulls our receptors and makes it more challenging to feel motivated to complete everyday tasks. Thus, since we are not receiving dopamine, it is harder for people to concentrate for prolonged periods of time. Not only does it lower attention spans, but it can also serve as a social substitute. In a recent study released by ScienceDirect, researchers examined the relationship between TikTok users and their social environment. They found that there was a strong correlation between social anxiety, social isolation and neuroticism in users who were addicted to TikTok. I believe these statistics indicate that TikTok has become a way for people
to avoid getting out of their comfort zones and meeting new people. Similar to how shortform content can lower one’s attention span, it can also reduce one’s willingness to participate in social situations. This is because TikTok creates an artificial social environment where users can feel connected directly with their favorite creators. While this is not entirely untrue, prolonged exposure to these apps can result in stunted social interaction and higher anxiety levels in public environments.
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If you say you have never engaged with short-form content, you’re probably lying.”
This is not to say that one should entirely avoid short-form content. While the medium has many negative connotations, it can be an excellent way for people to quickly learn about current events and stay current on what is happening in their communities. However, one must be mindful and use these apps in moderation. Shortform content can quickly become addictive, leading many to develop bad habits with their work, schooling, and social life.
BY NATALIE TANAKA STAFF WRITER
“Anyone can cook.” This famous line from the Pixar classic “Ratatouille” is not just a throwaway cliché. Cooking is a skill, and by definition, a skill is something that can be learned with enough practice. Despite this, I have come across people convinced they cannot cook. Whether it is because a parent always cooked for them in the past or because they consider themselves “too clumsy,” these individuals come up with many reasons why they “don’t belong in the kitchen.” However, to these individuals, I say: Cooking is not an optional skill, but rather a life skill that every able-bodied person needs to have. Before I explain why you need to know how to cook, I must include some clarifications. By cooking, I do not mean buying pre-made food. Heating up a can of soup in the microwave does not qualify. Real cooking is knowing how to prepare dishes from scratch, like soups, curries, roasts and more. Cooking almost always involves cutting things up, combining them, adding spices and heating them in various ways. So, boiling pasta or ravioli and pouring a jar of spaghet-
ti sauce over it is not cooking, either. That is, again, just reheating. I’m not saying that everyone needs to have Gordon Ramsey, MasterChef or Michelin Star cooking abilities, but I am saying that everyone should have basic knowledge and skills in the field of cooking. Food is one of the basic human necessities. Since we eat multiple times daily, knowing how to prepare food for yourself is synonymous with knowing how to care for your body. Cooking can also save you money. Making dishes at home from scratch is much cheaper than eating out at restaurants. In addition, cooking your own food is a healthier option as homemade food contains less harmful additives frequently found in restaurants, storebought or pre-made food. As the chef, you can decide exactly how much oil, salt, sugar or other potentially unhealthy ingredients to add. Lastly, cooking is a skill you can share with others; it is not just for yourself. Knowing how to bake a cake for someone or prepare a dish for a family member is one tangible way to show love and care. There is a sweet and indescribable feeling of satisfaction when someone enjoys the food you made. Seeing their faces light up as they say “It’s good!” is so rewarding that it makes up for the time and effort spent cooking the dish. I challenge you: Take the time to learn to cook. As for any new skill, learning will take time. It may come easier to some more than others, but that is no reason to give up. And trust me, the results will be worth it — and delicious.
16 October 27, 2023 · Volume 71 · Issue 2
Comic Strips
Día de los Muertos Crossword 1
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Día de los Muertos Cros 9
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by Carly Brunner
Dia de los Muer tos Crosswor d Día de los Muertos Crossword by Valerie La Ponza
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Down: 2. The place where the dead are laid to rest
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8. Marigolds, the flower of the holiday 9. A grand celebration 11. A decorated skull for Día de los Muertos 12. Bright colorful pieces of paper strung all
Across: 1. A special treat for the occasion
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To light the way and bring life to the celebration 4. Bright, colorful, fantastic creatures 5. The place4 where offerings and pictures of
over the town for decoration 9
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Hint: answers in Spanish, and remember your articles – el and la 7
the deceased are placed 6. A symbol of Christianity
7. Shaking spooky bones all over the place 10. The offerings placed on the altar for the deceased to enjoy 6
8 9 10
Down: 2. The place where the dead are laid to rest
Across: 1. A special treat for the occasion
11. A decorated skull for Día de los Muertos 12. Bright colorful pieces of paper strung all
4. Bright, colorful, fantastic creatures 5. The place where offerings and pictures of
8. Marigolds, the flower of the holiday 9. A grand celebration
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3. To light the way and® bring life to the celebration
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Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator © 2007 - 2023 Education.com
the deceased are placed 6. A symbol of Christianity
7. Shaking spooky bones all over the place 10. The offerings placed on the altar for the deceased to enjoy
By Lauren Vincent
Finish the Face By Lauren Vincent
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Where Will Lance Lunch?
Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator
© 2007 - 2023 Education.com
by Valerie La Ponza
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