Banner | Vol. 69 Issue 7 by Lancer Media Group

Volume 69 Issue 7 February 18, 2022

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Why don’t we step on the seal? The history of a campus tradition

Photo Illustration by Elijah Hickman | Banner BY AMANDA PALACIOS STAFF WRITER

A crowd of friends walks by a marble circle stamped into the ground. One begins to stray, inching closer toward it. The pack’s yells grow louder with each step their friend takes, but their fear doesn’t affect his decision. He steps on the forbidden stone. A few minutes later, a girl is looking down at her phone. Suddenly, her sixth sense kicks in and she finds herself tip-toeing around the outline of the seal to avoid dooming her fate. Each student shares the same knowledge of the Califor-

nia Baptist University seal in Stamps Courtyard but chooses to approach the situation differently. The seal holds so much power that an entire school knows the tradition it carries. Unless you kiss the ring on the other side of the courtyard, one foot on the crest and your graduation is toast. At least that’s what your tour guides said. To determine if the seal’s spell is real or not, it is important to know its history. It was 2003. The graduating class had recently gifted CBU with the infamous seal placed in the Courtyard. But when rush hour around classes hit, they noticed students would

mindlessly walk over the shiny new gift — something that represents CBU’s identity. Chris Hofschroer, assistant dean of students, witnessed the famous tradition start during his undergraduate years here at CBU in 2004. “A bunch of people were out in the quad area for a student leadership conference, and everybody was like, ‘Man, people are walking on the seal, people should be more respectful.’ It’s the thing that identifies us — it’s our symbol,” Hofschroer said. Hoping to lessen foot traffic over the seal, the band of students gathered to form a plan that would deter others from

2022 WINTER OLYMPICS Team USA Highlights

walking on the school’s identity. “I remember sitting there and someone stepped on the seal, and they said, ‘Oh my gosh you stepped on the seal!’ And they told him, ‘You have to run over and kiss the ring because you won’t graduate on time!’ It was a total off-the-cuff, random situation,” Hofschroer said. What may have been a joke to that student quickly became the new tradition on campus when news of kissing the ring spread and more and more people began to enforce the “rules.” Seventeen years later, the tradition still stands. Many students around campus believe that stepping on the

SEE CBU SEAL | PAGE 7

Photo by Kia Harlan | Banner

Students find inner artist through ceramics program A&E EDITOR

Emily McGinn | Banner

my life that I should graduate, then I will live that purpose,” Bankole-Wright said. Yet, she avoids walking over the seal when she can, out of fear that a CBU faculty member will call her out on it. “I am afraid they may pull me aside because I am breaking a long-held CBU tradition,” Bankole-Wright said. Even for the nonbelievers, the seal is embedded with a ritual that people like to honor. So, if the tradition is made up, why do we continue to walk around it as if it’s holy ground? CBU even blocks it off with rope

The ceramics classes at California Baptist University help students unlock their creativity.

BY ROWEN ZAMORA

Vision, p. 6-7

seal can lead to not graduating and don’t want to risk it. “I tend to avoid stepping on the seal just out of habit since everyone I know has always avoided it since freshmen year,” said Anthony Lulo, senior business administration major. “I’m graduating this semester so I don’t want to take any chances.” Some students, though, don’t fear the proclaimed destiny that lies under their feet. Morgan Bankole-Wright, sophomore communication sciences and disorders major, admits she has walked on it many times, unfazed by its potential jinx on her graduation. “If it is in God’s purpose for

There is a common misconception among people: They wholeheartedly believe that they are not creative. This, of course, is inaccurate as what they are truly picking up on is their lack of skill to implement their creative aspirations. The ceramics program at

California Baptist University can grant an individual those necessary skills while fulfilling a general education requirement. “Anybody can learn to work in clay and ceramics and most students here find it a very therapeutic experience,” said Amanda Santos, adjunct professor of ceramics. “We want to give students a chance to learn

technique, but the creativity is all on them. We want to leave it as open as we can so they have the best experience.” The one-on-one help that professors provide for students in developing their artistic style and ability is not unique to the ceramics program, but it is the fundamental key in all education that allows students to think critically and flourish as

Community Life and the Black Student Union collaborated for a Black History Month event.

Netflix video games —

Streaming service giant Netflix creates new mobile games for fans of television shows.

Sports psychology —

N e w s , Pg. 2

B & T , Pg . 1 1

S p o r t s , Pg. 14

Black History Month —

CBU offers graduate program that trains students in Sport and Performance Psychology.

NEWS

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

THE BANNER

staff PRINT

Editor-in-Chief Emily McGinn Managing Editor Aiden Hobson Photo Editor Elijah Hickman Asst. Photo Editor Tonia Ross Design Editor Emily McGinn News Editor Lauren Brooks Asst. News Editor Nolan Lamberth

Asst. Lifestyle Editors Valerie La Ponza Teddy Peña Sports Editor Aiden Hobson Asst. Sports Editor Maddy Gonzalez Asst. Design Editors Lauren Brooks Luis Menendez Jeremiah Wong Public Relations Director Megan Van Battum Social Media Director Cole Stillwagon

Business & Tech Editor Jasmine Severi

Distribution Manager Casey Maldonado

Asst. Business & Tech Editor Alexza Bahnmiller

Advertising Manager Wiley Lloyd

A&E Editor Rowen Zamora

ONLINE

Asst. A&E Editors Josiah Murphy Kassidy Blount Lifestyle Editor Emily McGinn

Editor-in-Chief Emily McGinn Website Administrator Jasmine Severi Photo and Video Editor Elijah Hickman

Asst. Director of Student Publications Sonya Singh Interim Director of Student Publications Dr. Mary Ann Pearson

We want your help! Write, take photos or design with us. Email us at BannerEditor@calbaptist.edu for more information.

About

THE BANNER

The Banner newspaper is an award-winning, bi-weekly campus publication that publishes 12 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. others in the university are encouraged to react to published material or to comment on matters of conern. The Banner retains the right to edit your letter upon publication based on grammar and word count. Send letters to Emily McGinn, editor-in-chief of The Banner at BannerEditor@ calbaptist.edu. If you have a story idea for The Banner, please let us know. If a business would like to advertise in the The Banner, please contact Emily McGinn at emilyanne.mcginn@calbaptist.edu. Thanks for reading!

@CBULancerMedia Keep up with CBU news and events.

CBU celebrates Black History Month BY LAUREN BROOKS NEWS EDITOR

The origins of Black History Month can be traced back as far as 1915. It became an official holiday in 1976 during President Gerald Ford’s time in office with the aim to honor the accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history. Before being acknowledged as an official holiday, Black History Month was celebrated by many universities to honor different aspects of Black culture, important figures and relevant topics that may be overlooked. In 2022, Black History Month is celebrated at nearly every college campus in America. California Baptist University has been celebrating Black History Month for over a decade with events that occur every February. The Black Student Union (BSU) of CBU and Community Life staff came together to put on a Black History Month celebration event on Feb. 8 in Lancer Plaza. The event consisted of a talent showcase, traditional soul food and an art gallery. Mia Tamayo, sophomore biomedical sciences major and Community Life intern, said the event is important to give Black students the space to express themselves freely and to educate others. She said that Community Life intentionally set out round tables for the event to emphasize unity and to encourage students to come together as a community. “Our goal was to provide an atmosphere for students to learn about Black culture and about Black history and to provide a safe space for our Black students on campus to showcase their talents,”

Elijah Hickman | Banner

Kweisi Samuel Grad program Kinesiology is with Josiah Davis, resident of Riverside, to do a traditional step dance for the CBU Black history event. Tamayo said. One of CBU’s Core Four principles is to be globallyminded. Jordan Hill, senior political science major and BSU president, said the event demonstrates this principle on a local scale, giving students the opportunity to learn from their peers and to be open-minded, and to expand their knowledge about topics everyone may not understand. Hill also said that it was neat for his friends to have a space to share their unique talents. “It is really cool to be able to give people a platform to share their experiences whether it is a song, step (dance) or a poem,” Hill said. “It is really cool to work with the campus of CBU and to bring everyone together

for an event like this.” Michaela Harrington, junior health science major, performed her poem “I Am Black and Beautiful” at the showcase portion of the event. “I wanted to perform to celebrate and give some recognition to Black History Month, and to inspire other Black CBU students with my poem,” Harrington said. “I think events like this are important to recognize Black History Month and just show the beauty and the talent and the creativity that us AfricanAmerican people have.” The event featured more than just singing and spoken word, with one student going on stage to talk about his custom shoe and clothing designs. Zion

Crockett, freshman pre-nursing student, said his decision to present was a last-minute decision. He showcased some designs and walked students through his process. “Where I come from, there are certain people that I know who have a lot more creativity and imagination than me,” Crockett said. “They just never got the chance to fully express it. I wanted to give the opportunity to everyone searching for something to express themselves creatively — to just show what a glimpse of an idea can do.” Black History Month events will continue in February with a showing of the remake of the Proud Family on the Recreation Center roof on Feb. 25.

COVID-19 test vending machines begin appearing on some college campuses BY IGNACIO DOMINGUEZ STAFF WRITER

COVID-19 testing continues to become more accessible to citizens through a variety of means. Some college students across California now have the option to get COVID tests available 24/7 on campuses. These tests are appearing in vending machines, mainly on campuses within the University of California system. The vending machines’ most recent debut has been at UCLA. The machines also began appearing at UC San Diego and San Diego State University in response to the return of students to inperson instruction at the three campuses. Throughout the pandemic, the UC and CSU systems have implemented strict regulations as a result of the Omicron variant to keep students safe, including requiring proof of vaccination to return to campus. Regular testing is also encouraged to keep spread minimal. “Anyone with an active BruinCard can receive up to two self-test kits each week using the vending machines available on campus,” said UCLA’s Arthur Ashe Student Health & Wellness Center on its website. “BruinCards automatically receive a complimentary $2 credit on a weekly basis to be used to purchase COVID-19 tests from these dedicated machines. Credits will not be valid at any other vending machines or for any other use.” Once students use the tests

UCLA is one campus beginning to offer vending machines with COVID-19 tests. from the vending machines, they can drop the specimens into collection bins located beside the vending machines for evaluation. The rollout of vending machines for COVID-19 testing kits to all students began early this semester. UCLA’s return of students to campus this year was welcomed with more than 15 testing vending machines around the campus for students and employees. The technology behind these testing kits originated from the UCLA Health Department called SwabSeq, a technology that is quicker than PCR tests and still as effective. The tests received emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration in

November 2020 with 24-hour turnaround test results upon lab arrival. “The machines make me feel safer because I know that we have access to tests and don’t have to go off campus to look for COVID testing locations,” said Eliobany Perez, junior political science major at UCLA. “I think the vending machines are a great way to make COVID testing more accessible. Students know where to find them and they’re free.” Perez said that she has not used the vending machines yet because dorms around UCLA supply students with testing kits at their front desk, but she frequently sees students using them around campus. “I do think more colleges

Photo courtesy of Logan Chin

should begin to implement them because it would encourage more students to test regularly because they know that they are available to them,” Perez said. Joshua Smith, freshman political science and philosophy double major, said he thinks it would be beneficial for California Baptist University to place COVID test vending machines on campus. “COVID is dangerous, and its variants are even more contagious than before, so timing is everything,” Smith said. “It’s in the best interest for the university to provide health services to their students and place COVID vending machines on campus that can be accessible to anyone.”

NEWS

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

Culture and justice lecture series brings the world to helping profession majors LAUREN BROOKS NEWS EDITOR

For six years now, California Baptist University has hosted a Culture and Justice lecture series for its College of Behavioral and Social Sciences students. The series was originally intended for faculty but was opened to students due to the vision of Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, who focuses on giving students in the helping profession real world testimony from professionals. The lecture series went to a virtual format in 2021 due to COVID-19 regulations. As for 2022, the lectures have resumed an in-person format. Each academic year offers four to six speakers, but 2022 will have four speakers. The series has had an average attendance of 300, consisting of behavioral and social science students, faculty and community affiliates. Dr. Antonio Mejico, speaker recruiter and professor of social work, said that this series allows for students to “interact with local, global and national experts who are serving in the field of the helping professions.” “We’re very deliberate about who we invite to

campus because we also want professionals that are living their purpose and are ideal rolemodels for professional service delivery, as well as humble and inspiring individuals that are also connected with our Christian values,” Mejico said. With this careful deliberation comes speakers with a slew of accomplishments on their resume. The next speaker on Feb. 24 is Keri Lyn Coleman, who previously served as acting administrator for the Drug-Free Communities Support Program (DFCSP) at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). In addition to her time in the White House, Coleman started her business on consultations for data analysis to advise on issues such as substance abuse. “It could be a little scary (for students) to meet someone who’s worked in the White House and set national policy and wonder what they might say with their impressive bio,” Mejico said. “Our speakers come in very humble and say, ‘But we started as undergraduate sociology, social work or psychology majors’— that they were you. It gives students an opportunity to see really successful examples of professionals and realize that is

“

But we (the speakers) started as undergraduate sociology, social work or psychology majors— that they were you. Dr. Antonio Mejico, Professor of social work

them in the future.” Kaylee Porter, junior psychology major, said that the lectures applied to all different aspects of the “helping professions” to help prevent future societal issues and give insight as to ways to solve present ones. “From my experience, the Culture and Justice lectures are very informative and insightful with regards to certain realworld issues I never knew existed,” Porter said. “The lectures are led by passionate and ambitious individuals in search of a change to better our world. As a psychology major, it’s interesting to see the things we learn every day in class applied to the real world.” Selah Kelley, junior sociology major, said that the lectures are an important extension of her classwork.

She cited one of the lectures by previous speaker Damien O’ Farrell, CEO of the Parkview Legacy Foundation and CBU alumnus, on the sociological impact of the pandemic as an example. She said that hearing about how the pandemic affected things such as income and healthcare, and looking at it through the sociological lens of gender, race and ethnicity was important. “It gives us a chance to learn from different people in the field that we wouldn’t have the opportunity to learn from otherwise,” Kelley said. “The professors here at CBU are wonderful, educated and great, but it’s an awesome chance to learn from people active in the community and professors from other universities all over the country.” The last two lectures for the 2021-22 academic school year are taking place on Feb. 24 and March 31. The final speaker is Dr. Stephanie Baugh, a specialist in the field of diversity, equity and inclusion, who will be speaking about how this role is growing nationally as well as its importance in the current climate. Students outside of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences can attend by emailing Mejico at amejico@calbaptist.edu.

CBU received high rankings in several categories for 2022:

Online Bachelor’s Program:

Online Master’s in Computer Information Technology programs:

Online Master’s in Education programs:

Online Master’s in Business program (non-MBA):

Lauren Brooks | Banner

NEWS Briefs CA MASK MANDATE LIFTED The California indoor mask mandate came to an end on Feb. 15 due to a drop in Omicron cases, which triggered the reimplementation of the mask mandate on Dec. 15. As of Feb. 14, test positivity had dropped 72% in California. However, local health officials can continue to issue requirements due to location differences and individual jurisdiction. Schools throughout the state are keeping the mask mandate until health officials have deemed it safe.

RUSSIA THREATENS INVASION

The Spring Job Expo held in Van Dyne Gym, is full of many different companies that are looking to hire students from CBU.

Camille Grochowski | Banner

Spring Career Expo hosts employers and attracts crowds of hopeful students AIDEN HOBSON

MANAGING EDITOR California Baptist University hosted a multitude of different employers for their Spring Career Expo on Feb. 16. Organized by the CBU Career Center, the job fair brought in many different local companies and organizations, all of whom were recruiting for different majors and positions. “We get a lot of our summer staff from CBU, and they’re quality staff,” said Tom Raisbeck from Thousand Pines Christian Camps, one of the companies represented at the career fair. “They’re people you can trust are going to get the job done. They’re people who work hard and you don’t have to oversee them all the time. They’re quality people.” The entire Van Dyne Gym at CBU was filled with employers, and many students were able to mingle with the different

booths and evaluate the different opportunities. The CBU Career Center aided some students prior to the event, giving them help with their resumes and other preparatory materials. “Our Career Center is so stellar, with the way they helped us with resumes, LinkedIn, everything,” said Joel Williams, business administration major. “This event is huge, they put on so many career fairs for the students and even for specific majors and fields of work. It’s just a great opportunity for everyone.” The Spring Career Expo was open to all CBU students regardless of major or year. Some students remarked that they came to the event just to practice interviewing and networking in a professional setting. “I feel like this a great opportunity for practice as well, just to practice meeting

people,” said E.J. Arevalo, marketing management major. Due to the labor shortage seen in the U.S. currently, many employers are looking to acquire talented and educated staff. Students at the career fair had opportunities to network with many different companies and see what jobs they were most qualified for. “There’s a lot of employers here, a lot of people seriously looking to hire, which is super good,” Williams said. The CBU Career Center gives students many

“

opportunities to prepare themselves for the job market before graduation. In addition to the career fair, they offer mock interviews, resume reviews, LinkedIn workshops and other helpful resources. Many students remarked, however, that getting actual first-hand experience talking to employers is helpful. “It’s been great getting experience talking to recruiters, giving my resume to people and just being the best person I can be,” said Luke Bell, marketing major.

We get a lot of our summer staff from CBU, and they’re quality staff. They’re people you can trust are going to get the job done. They’re people who work hard and you don’t have to oversee them all the time. Tom Raisbeck, Thousand Pines Christian Camps recruiter

As of Feb. 17, Russia has added an additional 7,000 troops stationed at Ukraine’s border. The situation has escalated in the past few days with President Joe Biden saying that the U.S. will lead military actions and institute sanctions against Russia if President Vladimir Putin orders an invasion of Ukraine. Putin claims that he wants to avoid war, but he continues to insist that Ukraine should not join NATO and demand to relinquish Crimea. As of Feb. 15, diplomacy is still the end goal on all sides. Disputes on whether troops were truly removed is a current object of debate between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine.

NORTH HIGH TEACHER FIRED Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) announced that the John W. North High School teacher who went viral in October for mocking Native Americans was fired in early February. Shortly after the incident, the teacher was placed on paid leave, eventually transferring to unpaid leave while the investigation continued. RUSD voted 4-1 for the teacher’s termination. The announcement received favorable responses from local tribes and activists who have been protesting for removal since the initial event.

VISION

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

2022 WINTER Team USA

Jaelin Kauf earns a silver medal for the U.S. in women’s moguls.

The opening ceremony for the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing launches the games, with 91 teams participating in the ceremony. Julia Marino wins the first medal for the U.S. in the 2022 Olympic Games with a silver in women’s snowboard slopestyle.

Feb. 4

The U.S. figure skating team wins silver in the team event, trailing only the Russian Olympic Commitee.

Feb. 6

Nathan Chen wins gold in the men’s single skating.

Feb. 7

Snowboarder and returning gold medalist Shaun White finishes fourth in his final Olympics.

Chloe Kim wins gold in the women’s snowboard halfpipe.

Feb. 10

Erin Jackson wins gold in the women’s 500m speed skating race.

Feb. 11 Feb. 13

VISION

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

R OLYMPICS Highlights Skier Ryan Cochran-Siegle wins silver in the men’s Super-G.

Colby Stevenson earns silver in men’s freestyle skiing big air. Cross-country skier Jessie Diggins wins bronze in the women’s sprint.

Feb. 8

Lindsey Jacobellis wins the first gold medal for the U.S. in the women’s snowboard cross.

Feb. 9 Team USA Medal Count

Bobsledders Kallie Humphries and Elana Meyers Taylor win gold and silver respectively in the women’s monobob.

As of Feb. 17

Ice dancers Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue win bronze in the couples’ free dance.

Feb. 14

8 7 4 Designed by Emily McGinn

LIFESTYLE

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

Lancer Farms and Gardens open to students BY EMILY MCGINN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

California Baptist University has many greenspaces across campus. One of the lesser known garden areas is Lancer Farms and Gardens, located in the Colony Apartments around the Hawthorne House. The gardens include about 18 raised beds filled with plants ranging from lavender and sunflowers to kale and lettuce, as well as a citrus grove. The CBU Botany Club, Environmental Science Club and CBU Facilities work together to manage and maintain the gardens. “We wanted to provide students with access to organic vegetables, organic herbs, flowers and organic fruits because it is good for their health to be in God’s creation and in a green environment,” said Dr. Jacob Lanphere, professor of environmental science. “We also want to be good stewards of God’s creation by providing wildflowers to feed the local pollinators, which benefits our ecosystem here at CBU.” Lanphere said that he aims to model the gardens after natural ecosystems through a permaculture concept. “We have tried to create an environment where these plants can grow permanently without the help of humans,” Lanphere said. “When I go through seasons when I can’t be there all the time, I can always come back and hopefully it is healthy and thriving. To make sure it is

healthy and thriving, I rely on God’s systems, the way God created the earth for all organisms to work together.” Lancer Farms and Gardens provide a place for students to get involved with nature, both in and out of class. Lanphere teaches several courses, including Sustainable Agriculture, Soil and Water and Botany, in which he uses the gardens to teach students about topics ranging from plant growth in urban areas to the types of soil. However, students do not need to be enrolled in a class to enjoy the gardens. Students can get involved in Lancer Farms and Gardens by participating in Arbor Day, which occurs once each semester and allows students to come together to work on campus beautification. Students can also join the Botany Club and the Environmental Science Club. “Last Arbor Day, we had students at Lancer Farms and Gardens putting plants in the ground who had never planted anything ever,” Lanphere said. “We need to get back to that as a society. We should be able to grow our own food.” Callie Totaro, senior environmental science and sustainability double major, was the botany club president for the past year. She encourages students interested in the gardens to come to club events. “The gardens are important to campus because it is nice for the students to have a green space to go and get hands-on gardening opportunities while away from home,” Totaro said.

Lancer Farms stands in front of the Up house behind colony, available for students to use. “The garden promotes a sense of community through the events and combined efforts of the students to care for the farm.” Alie Minium, junior environmental science major, is one of two primary caretakers for Lancer Farms and Gardens. As a caretaker, she makes decisions about what should be planted and is involved in maintaining the farms and gardens. “Lancer Farms and Gardens is such a great place to go to get away from the busyness of life,”

Headphones can damage ear health over time BY EMILY MCGINN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Headphones, both in-ear and over-the-ear, have become integral aspects of most people’s lives, especially since Apple introduced AirPods to the market in 2016. Since then, Apple has continued to release new generations of AirPods and sales have continued to grow. In fact, in the holiday quarter of 2021, Apple reported to have sold 90 million units of AirPods. Headphones allow us to listen to music and videos, and have personal conversations easily, but are these pieces of technology harming our ears? Dr. Sherlyn Benois-Green, professor of audiology, said that both in-ear and overthe-ear headphones can lead to hearing loss when users go beyond a safe volume and duration. “Anything you use on your ears can potentially harm your ears, but it is more so time-weighted,” Benois-Green said. “Regardless of if you are using headphones or earbuds, it is the amount of time that you are using it and the volume it is set at that is going to take precedence. They both have the potential of creating damage.” Noise-induced ear damage results when loud or excessive noise damages outer and inner hair cells in the ear. Everyone is born with a certain number of hair cells, and these cells are essential in conducting sound through the ear system. While these hair cells naturally deteriorate with age, this deterioration can occur more rapidly due to acoustic trauma, which can stem from the use of headphones and earbuds.

Although Benois-Green stressed that time and volume are the most important factors in determining the potential for hearing loss, in-ear headphones can have greater potential to harm the ear because of the proximity of the headphone to the eardrum. “Potentially, anything in the ear is going to enhance sound probably louder than something over the ear, so if you had to choose one that is more potentially harmful, it is in the ear that can sometimes augment the volume because it is seated deep inside the ear next to the eardrum,” Benois-Green said. Benois-Green warned that ordinary headphones damage hearing when the volume level exceeds 80-85 decibels. In situations where someone experiences intense volume, ear damage can occur quickly. “Ideally, as a general rule, if somebody next to you knows what you are listening to, it is too loud,” Benois-Green said. In-ear headphones can also contribute to other ear issues such as ear infections when not sanitized between uses, although other factors such as susceptibility to ear infections play major roles as well. “Wearing headphones for long periods of time can cause humidity which can attract bacteria,” said Klarissa Valdez, senior communication sciences and disorders major. “This can lead to an ear infection, which can cause damage to the ear.” Hearing loss is often accompanied by signs such as tinnitus, a condition characterized by ringing or buzzing in the ear. Benois-Green said it is important to prioritize preserving the hearing capabilities someone has after hearing loss has occurred because it is often per-

manent. Benois-Green said that presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, used to be the main cause of hearing loss. However, there has been a shift in the cause of most cases of hearing loss. “Presbycusis is not the number one cause of hearing loss anymore,” Benois-Green said. “The No. 1 cause of hearing loss now is noise exposure. It is not uncommon anymore to see someone who is 30 or 40 who needs hearing aids. It is typically what we are doing recreationally or occupationally.” In fact, a 2017 study found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, found a correlation between listening habits and poorer hearing capabilities in young people. “The results indicated that longer lifetime exposure in years and increased listening frequency were associated with poorer hearing thresholds and more self-reported hearing problems,” the study said. “A tendency was found for listening to louder volumes and poorer hearing thresholds.” To prevent hearing loss, Benois-Green suggests keeping headphone volume under 50-60 decibels and taking breaks from wearing headphones when using them for long periods of time. Valdez also recommends using noise-canceling headphones to avoid the need to raise the volume to drown outside noises. Apple also offers a feature in the Health app that tracks headphone audio levels so iPhone users can ensure they are using headphones at healthy volume levels.

Minium said. “Students are welcome to harvest and enjoy the garden, as long as they’re respectful of others and the work that goes into the farm. All of the orange trees around the farm are in bloom now, so feel free to grab as many as you’d like.” The gardens are available for all students to harvest and plant. Lanphere encourages students to go to the gardens to develop a healthy, sustainable lifestyle, citing scientific health benefits of being in nature.

Photo Illustration by Charissa Graves | Banner

“Studies have shown you improve your cardiovascular health when you are in the garden,” Lanphere said. “The soil that gets under your fingertips increases the serotonin in your brain and calms you down. The bacteria that’s in healthy soil, when you are messing with it, it gets inside of you and replenishes your gut bacteria which helps you digest food.” The peaceful nature of gardens is especially important in high-stress environments such

as college campuses. “School can be stressful, but if you have a garden to go to, it helps you get through the tough times, and it has helped me personally,” Lanphere said. Lanphere encourages all students from every major to enjoy the gardens and get involved. “Anyone can go at any time,” Lanphere said. “Eat whatever you want. Plant whatever you want. It’s open. That’s the way I want it to be. It is not off-limits to anyone.”

Sustainable Living for college students Sustainability Tip

Thrift stores sell second hand clothes. When consumers buy these clothes, they are ensuring old clothes are not thrown away and sent to landfills.

Shop at thrift stores.

How does this help the environment?

When garbage decomposes in landfills, it releases methane gas, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Landfills can also contribute to pollution, which can harm people and wildlife. By repurposing and reusing clothes, we can minimize waste and save money.

Emily McGinn | Banner

Book of the Month subscription service offers new ways to read BY VALERIE LA PONZA

ASST. LIFESTYLE EDITOR

In the age of technology, libraries have become what many would describe as obsolete. To combat these changing times, companies have begun to revolutionize their business models to adapt to these changing times. A new service, Book of the Month, allows subscribers to choose one or more of the five hand-picked titles every month, which is then delivered to their houses for perusal. The range of books offered ranges from mystery whodunits to creepy stories, to inspirational reads. “I think it could be a cool idea,” said Kathryn Olsen, junior mechanical engineering major. “However, I think it should use some sort of algorithm to pick subsequent books similar to previous books you’ve liked. I’m also pretty picky about the books I read, so I’d be impressed if I could find a service that would supply new books that I find I enjoy for the most part.” Hannah Scholljegerdes, junior mathematics major, likes

the idea of expanding reading comfort zones and receiving the chance to explore genres one might not normally pick up. “I love the idea Book of the Month has of introducing readers to genres they generally shy away from,” Scholljegerdes said. “I love that the books sent out every month are a combination of new, up-and-coming writers, newly released books and books that are currently popular on social media. “I don’t see myself signing up for Book of the Month anytime soon, but I do think it’s a wonderful way for subscribers to build up their personal library and expand their reading journey.” Scholljegerdes said she is excited to see subscription services such as Book of the Month renew society’s focus on reading books. “There is currently a surge in reading that had bled over into social media,” Scholljegerdes said. “It is so refreshing seeing people my age share their new favorite books and authors with the world. There are wonderful lessons to be learned from books. Books offer

healing, wildest dreams and inspiration to anyone who opens them. My wish is for people to find joy in reading.” Morgan Rither, adjunct professor of modern language and literature, is a self-proclaimed avid reader. She sees both advantages and disadvantages to book subscription services like Book of the Month. “My only concern with these kinds of subscription boxes or in general is that it might just be a trend because I am sure there’s been other stuff that comes and gone by the wayside,” Rither said. “It might be maybe a bit too trendy and it might go away eventually. (However), it would allow me to also maybe read books that are a little outside of my comfort zone. This would help me get a little more variety than just browsing the general library or bookstore.” Book of the Month’s rates starts at $15.99 per month, but with the promo code BEMINE entered at checkout at Book of the Month’s website, your first book will be $9.99. You can subscribe at https://www.bookofthemonth.com.

LIFESTYLE

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

Teddy Peña | Banner Teddy Peña, senior public relations major, shares steps for cooking your own ramen noodles.

Lifestyle Tries: Make your own ramen for a home-cooked meal BY TEDDY PEÑA

ASST. LIFESTYLE EDITOR

It is popular among college students to want a meal that is quick and affordable. This is why many colleges, including California Baptist University, implement meal plans. An additional option to the traditional and popular on-campus meal plan is to prepare a home-cooked meal. However, this is oftentimes overlooked because of the natural tight schedules that many

students have. However, many food options are quick to prepare and easy to personalize. Ramen is a popular dish for people of all ages because of its affordability and accessibility. Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup that has many variations depending on the noodle, flavor and spice level. Ramen can be bought in packages that contain the dried ramen noodles and seasoning packets. This food can be found in virtually any store including Target, Ralphs and Stater

Brothers. More expansive options of ramen can be found in specialty Asian markets such as 99 Ranch Market. This meal is notable for its ease of customization. The noodle soup packages have directions on how to prepare it, usually on the back of the packaging. Typically, a specific amount of water is directed to be boiled in a pot. However, the amount of water boiled can be altered depending on how much broth is desired in the soup. The amount of time that the

noodles cook is also customizable because a longer cook time will result in a softer noodle texture. Additionally, one of the most customizable aspects of ramen is the ingredients that can be added to the soup. Some ingredients that can be added to ramen include spinach, green onions, cheese, bacon, ham, egg, bamboo shoots and mustard stems. Egg preparation for ramen varies depending on personal preference. For a boiled egg, boil water, then lower the stove

heat to let the water simmer. Carefully lower a washed egg into the simmering water and cook for approximately 6 to 9 minutes. A longer cook time will result in a more custard-like consistency of the egg yolk, a shorter cook time will result in a more runny consistency for the yolk. Another popular option for adding an egg to the ramen is frying the egg. To perfectly fry an egg to garnish your ramen, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil (vegetable, sesame, etc.)

Backpack differences can affect spine

Charissa Graves | Banner Many people have their own preferences on the type of backpack they like to use.

BY VALERIE LA PONZA ASST. LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Long before the sleek and fashionable designs of modern backpacks, knapsacks and rucksacks were the only way to transport materials over long distances. As recorded by Alyssa Mertes, a writer at Quality Logo Products, Ötzi the Iceman, a mummy preserved from the Copper Age, was the holder of the first backpack made out of animal fur. Backpacks continued to evolve over the years, from a small bundle thrown over the shoulder in the Civil War, also called a bindle, to a military backpack that made use of a head strap to keep it on the wearer. Backpacks soon began to boast sleek wooden frames

that not only helped keep the pack light but also easy to compress during a long voyage. The first modern backpack was created in 1938 by Colorado resident Gerry Cunningman, who created the bag after discovering his displeasure at how the rucksack slid across his back as he wore it. And so, taking his father’s sewing machine, some scraps of nylon and a couple of zippers, the modern backpack was born. Since then, backpacks have evolved as fast as the times have changed. New styles, shapes and capabilities emerged all in the span of less than a hundred years. Today, there are as many types of backpacks as there are people. But in all of these different types of backpacks, challenges arise, namely posture

and back problems which can form from a backpack with improperly distributed weight. “I think the best thing you can do is just find a bag that is comfortable for you to wear across both shoulders so that you’re able to distribute that weight optimally, and then also just doing your best to lighten your load, whether that be making more trips to your car or to your dorm room between classes to switch out books or anything else,” said Sydney Leisz, kinesiology professor. Liesz said that if bad posture caused by an uneven distribution of weight is left unchecked, the body’s normal posture will change. “Following that pattern over an extended period of time, your body is going to adapt that

Fantasy Book C.S. Lewis, the famous Cambridge literature professor and Christian lay theologian, is perhaps best known for his children’s fantasy series “The Chronicles of Narnia.” Depending on who you ask, the series starts with the novel, “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,” which opens with a family of four children living through the terrifying bombing of London during World War II. The Pevensie children, along with thousands of other children from the greater London area, are sent off to the English countryside where they find themselves housed in a massive farm estate owned by a reclusive professor and managed by a grouchy housekeeper.

new posture as normal, so the same with a backpack,” Liesz said. “If you carry it on one side, you’re going to hike your shoulder up to support the load, and over time, if you’ve always had a saddlebag and always carried it on your right side, you might experience tightness in your upper back or in your neck.” A 2017 study that looked into the consequences of heavy backpacks on students said that the weight of backpacks can lead to spinal consequences. “It can not only affect a child in the present but also have long-term effects on their body and render their spine vulnerable to injuries,” the study said. “Therefore the solutions can be either to decrease their workload, that is, decrease the weight of their backpack, or to

Review

As Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie explore the house, they eventually stumble upon a peculiar wardrobe that houses a gateway to another world, a mystical land called Narnia. While there, the Pevensies encounter all manner of fantastical creatures, such as talking animals, fauns, dwarves, centaurs and more. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy realize quickly upon entering Narnia that they are not safe; as “Sons of Adam” and “Daughters of Eve,” they are the subjects of an ancient prophecy that states that they will defeat the wicked queen who has locked Narnia in a magic, perpetual winter. Thrust into a war, the Pevensies flee the evil queen and find

constantly guide them to a better posture for the betterment of their spinal shape and thus their health.” Kylie Schreiber, senior liberal studies major, has a specific bag that she favors based on factors such as size and durability. “The backpack I use now is a black and grey Dakine backpack that I obviously use for school, so it’s a good size and quite durable,” Schreiber said. “I personally do not like the Fjällräven backpacks that are very popular among many due to the durability of these bags and their size.” Looking back at the history and invention of backpacks, it is a stark contrast against what backpacks once were, what they are now, and what they will one day become.

on a skillet over medium heat. Carefully crack the egg over the heated oil and let the egg whites bubble. If desired, spoon over excess oil over the cooking egg. Cook for about two to three minutes. Lastly, garnish your ramen with condiments you like. This can be chili oil, sesame oil, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, etc. Try your chopsticks skills and dig into your very own prepared ramen meal. Take photos of your ramen and tag @cbulancermedia to be featured.

CBU Seal Continued from Page 1 on tour days, engraving it into prospective students’ minds that walking on it is discouraged. Hofschroer said the answer is simple. “That’s how traditions are made across the country,” he said. “Students do something and it becomes immortalized. It’s passed down like a big game of telephone, and that’s why you do it.” Many schools uphold traditions like these for decades: Harvard’s custom is to touch the left foot of the John Harvard statue for good luck; Murray State University students nail shoes on a tree for a happy marriage; Baylor University’s undergrads toss tortillas onto an isolated concrete structure in the middle of a river so they can graduate within four years. Of course, the seal doesn’t possess the power to determine if you graduate or not. So, the rebel who boldly stomped on the seal might still graduate. Another may or may not have saved her future by catching herself before she fell. God may decide that Bankole-Wright will graduate if it is part of his plan for her life, whether she honors the tradition or not. No one knows. We do know that this tradition is now part of the university and will echo for generations.

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C. S. Lewis by Aiden Hobson| Managing Editor

safety with Aslan, a powerful lion who is said to be the true king of Narnia. While Narnia is typically considered a “children’s” fantasy series, many would argue that it speaks to readers of all ages. It is especially relevant for Christians, who can enjoy the very distinct biblical allegories throughout the series. In “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," we see themes of betrayal and redemption and a plot line that is remarkably similar to the Passion narrative recorded in the Gospels. As Aslan states, “The Witch knew the Deep Magic, there is a magic deeper still which she did not know … that when a willing victim who

had committed no treachery was killed in a traitor’s stead, the Stone Table would crack and Death itself would start working backward.” The allegory of Christ’s death and resurrection is just one part of the amazing biblical allusions throughout the entire series, but especially in “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.” Furthermore, readers should realize that stories like Narnia should not just be reserved for younger readers. As the book itself states, “Someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” People of all ages, but especially Christians, can benefit from reading a book series like “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

PERSPECTIVES February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

Alumni and students enjoy Homecoming weekend 1

4 5 1. On Friday, Feb. 11, students let loose to 3. Two hot air balloons are raised on the Front 5 Students and families helped fill the Events “Dyamite” by Taio Cruz at a concert during Lawn during the Homecoming event on Feb. 11. Center for the men’s basketball game against the Homecoming. University of Texas Rio Grand Valley. 4. Homecoming 2022 proved many free rides for 2. Community Life helped plan Homecoming, families, students and alumni. providing rides and food vendors for families and Photos by Elijah Hickman, Elijah Martinez, Roman Zozulia, Camille Grochowski students.

SPORTS

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

CBU offers degree in Sport Psychology BY AIDEN HOBSON MANAGING EDITOR

California Baptist University offers many degrees related to psychology and counseling, including the Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology. According to the official CBU website, this 16-month, 43-unit degree program prepares students, “to increase the quality of life of their client by helping them reach their performance and health goals.” While many people are familiar with the field of psychology, sport and performance psychology is not as widely known. “Sports psychology is this area that people will say, ‘Oh that’s really cool,’ and then they’ll pause and ask, ‘Wait what is that exactly?’” said Dr. Kristin Mauldin, director of the M.S. in Sport and Performance Psychology program and assistant professor of psychology. Sport and performance psychology is sometimes neglected by the general public because it tends to focus on those who excel, and those who already perform at such high levels that they don’t appear to need any help. “The fields of psychology have, historically, and even still currently, typically focused on dealing with problems,” Mauldin said. “And while we do deal with problems (in sport and performance psychology) we deal with problems that performers have, and good performers are usually not seen as those who are suffering so much. It’s hard to recognize, people have a harder time having some sympathy or empathy for them.” Practitioners who work in the field of sport and perfor-

Elijah Hickman | Banner

CBU’s STUNT team prepares to start the 2022 season off strong. mance psychology use their psychological training to help those who are facing problems performing at high levels; however, sport and performance psychology is not just for elite athletes. “Sport and performance psychology is really grounded

in the theories of psychology, and it uses what we understand about mental health and cognition and performance in general, and even the relationship between that and the body, and develops techniques that helps people push past barriers,” Mauldin added.

A day in the life of a student athlete Cross country and track athlete Florian Le Pallec A typical day as a CBU student-athlete is busy and challenging. 6:30 a.m. (Main session) - We run either on the track or at the canal, between 10 and 13 miles. 8:30 a.m. - After our workout we go straight to the Athletic Performance Center where we have a weight training session. Morning - Everyone has a different schedule depending on their classes. Personally, I am a graduate student doing an MBA, so my classes are only scheduled in the evening. This allows me to have breakfast and rest in the morning to recover from workouts. I also use this free time to do my assignments and meet some of my classmates to work on group projects. 1 p.m. - After a busy morning, I usually take lunch. Then I take care of my body to prepare for the next morning’s session. This consists of going to the trainers to optimize my recovery. After that, I go for an easy double run that takes about 40 minutes. Evening - I usually have dinner with my teammates before my class. 6-10 p.m. - Class Even though training that much requires a lot of time and energy, I enjoy college because our schedule allows us to do both. I am also happy to be part of this very diverse and international team. Emily McGinn | Banner

The CBU Sport and Performance Psychology program teaches graduate students how to use psychological theory to help anyone who needs help pushing past mental barriers and performing, whether it is a musician, basketball player or trauma surgeon.

“The main areas of research within sport psychology are imagery training, relaxation (breathing) training, motivation, socialization, conflict and competition, counseling and coaching,” said Taylor Ware, graduate student in Sport and Performance Psychology.

Sport and Performance Psychology graduate students learn to help people in tangible and concrete ways. Those interested in the Sport and Performance Psychology graduate program at CBU can contact the CBU Office of Admissions for information.

BUSINESS & TECH February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

3D printing is a great tool to use in schools BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER ASST. B&T EDITOR

3D printing has been around for the last 40 years, first produced by Charles Hull in 1983. The initial design involved an acrylic-based material called a photo polymer becoming exposed to an ultraviolet laser beam and thus producing a solid piece of plastic. According to 3dprintingindustry.com, this original 3D printer would have cost around $300,000. Luckily, technological advancements have allowed 3D printers to become more accessible and less expensive. Elizabeth Roe, freshman criminal justice major, said she prefers carbon-based 3D printers. “3D printer quality is based on plastics, but carbon printers are a lot more sturdy,” Roe said. Ben Sanders, professor of computer, software and data sciences, said 3D printers are useful for helping students express their creativity. “While printing, the 3D object is built up line by line,” Sanders said. “It’s not etched. This can be slow. However, it is a challenging and rewarding process. Students especially are able to take their creativity and turn it into something tangible. It’s an excellent learning tool.” Joshua Sears, sophomore electrical engineering major, said 3D printers are quickly becoming accessible tools. “3D printing is advancing

every year,” Sears said. “Features that used to only be available on massively expensive printers are now available on cheaper models. Currently, anyone could get a decent printer and start learning how to print for around $200, but I have seen printers as cheap as $100.” Like all technology, 3D printing has its pros and cons. “3D printing is not accurate, and it costs a good amount of time and money,” Sanders said. “On the other hand, it is a great learning tool for students as it requires upkeep and maintenance, and it is cheaper than injection modeling, a more precise process which costs about $5,000 per mold.” Roe said 3D printers are great for college campuses. Sears confirmed how essential 3D printers are for engineering students. “Engineering students at CBU use the 3D printers constantly for classes and projects,” Sears said. Sanders said he thinks 3D printers are excellent for a school environment. “Overall, from an educator’s viewpoint, 3D printers are worth it,” Sanders said. “Despite investment on actual product creation being low due to accuracy, the return investment on education is high.” While 3D printing may not be the most practical for precision, it provides an excellent tool to learn with and to make students’ ideas a reality.

Elijah Hickman | Banner

Engineers use the 3D printers in the Engineering Building for their projects.

Spotify adds new guidelines for information about COVID-19 BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER ASST. B&T EDITOR

Spotify is the latest major media platform to add guidelines about sharing correct information and spreading misinformation about COVID-19 and COVID vaccines. In response to the COVID pandemic, many of the top media platforms have decided to release updates on the virus, as well as links, guidelines or other forms of information to their audiences. For example, in early 2021 Instagram created two new COVID features: a link to local health authorities at the top

of feeds for audiences in areas with surging case numbers, and a link to credible health sources appearing when users are searching for COVID information. In addition, Instagram also began blocking hashtags that contain any vaccine misinformation. Now Spotify, with 381 million monthly active users, is jumping on board. On Jan. 30 Spotify made some changes to the platform. First, Spotify decided to publish its platform rules for the first time. Spotify plans to highlight the

platform rules so that creators understand their accountability for the things they post, as well as to raise awareness about what is acceptable to post. Second, Spotify has added content advisory to any podcast that includes the topic of COVID-19. The advisory will link to Spotify’s COVID-19 Hub, where up-to-date facts and information will be posted. Spotify declares on its website that this Hub is “the first of its kind by a major podcast platform.” “Major media platforms largely influence the entire

population,” said Viola Lindsey, professor of social work. “These large platforms have an obligation to share information on things such as the pandemic because they can reach so many. It makes it all the more important that the information they do choose to share, no matter the kind of platform, is always accurate and has integrity.” Media platforms sharing information on COVID-19 can be controversial, with many people wondering why news on the pandemic is showing up on places such as their music app. Masha Sowell, sophomore psychology major, said she believes

this to be the case. “Spotify doesn’t need to release COVID information because most people will skip or ignore it anyway,” Sowell said. “Platforms should only share information about the subject the platform is being used for. Spotify can share information about artists or music news, but it should stick to that.” However, Sarah Mandzok, freshman nursing major, thinks it was a good move that Spotify released more COVID-19 information. “Spotify includes podcasts that discuss COVID, so there should be a way to access more

information on the subject through Spotify,” Mandzok said. “It’s not the company’s purpose, but if the podcast is providing information, they should too.” Lindsey said it is important for popular platforms to be responsible with the information being shared on their platform. “Either way, no matter what type of popular platform, it is their job to release information that they have with integrity,” Lindsey said. “Then it is on the consumer to decide if it is accurate or not. Users and viewers can interpret the facts and data they are given or shown.”

BUSINESS & TECH

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

Netflix adds mobile games to its app for smartphones and tablets BY JASMINE SEVERI B&T EDITOR

Netflix has been expanding its entertainment experience for its members, as it launched worldwide, mobile-specific games for its mobile apps for smartphones and tablets using either Android or iOS systems in November 2021. It currently offers 14 games, from arcade games to strategy, role-playing, sports and more, including two games based on the Netflix Original show “Stranger Things.” Mike Verdu, vice president of Netflix’s Game Development team, said in a press release on Nov. 2 that Netflix is hard at work expanding its gaming selection to provide a variety of games for its users. “Whether you’re craving a casual game you can start from scratch or an immersive experience that lets you dig deeper into your favorite stories, we want to begin to build a library of games that offers something for everyone,” Verdu said. “We’re in the early days of creating a great gaming experience, and we’re excited to take you on this journey with us.” Kara Uhlinger, sophomore software engineering major, said she thinks Netflix making games for their original shows will encourage people to rewatch it. “I think that would be really cool, especially with their own content, like for ‘Stranger Things,’” Uhlinger said. “I think that would be fun. I would definitely enjoy something like

that, and I think it will really help (encourage people to) rewatch the shows, to understand the games more and the references. I think that would make me want to watch it again.” Uhlinger said she thinks the Netflix original shows that already have games in them would be excellent choices to make into actual games. “I think (they could make one for) ‘The Queen’s Gambit,‘” Uhlinger said. “They could do something with a chess game, and maybe play some of the characters from the show or something like that. Or for ’Squid Game,’ I feel like they could definitely do something really easily for a video game. They could do virtual versions of the competitions, and they could do some for the reality shows that they have, and they could make it interactive.” Uhlinger suggested Netflix should add icons to the menu for when someone clicks into a show to show that they have a game based on it, but she also likes the idea of a separate games tab. Uhlinger said she likes the idea of more interactive, choose-your-own-adventurestyle games, such as the 2018 game, “Black Mirror: Bandersnatch.” “I think it gets you interacting more with the show and even expanding your interest in it,” Uhlinger said. “I remember when ‘Bandersnatch’ came out I thought it was the coolest thing. You could interact right with the show as you go. So I

think that’s a great idea but I also think it’s a good idea to have them separately, like the actual games or anything interactive as something you can opt into.” Since Netflix is currently focusing on games centered on their mobile app, Uhlinger said she would like to see them do more with virtual reality games. Emey Yossef, sophomore health science major, said she agrees Netflix should have more games like “Bandersnatch.” “I think it’s really fun,” Yossef said. “Honestly, I played ‘Bandersnatch’ at least four times to try to get the different endings.” Yossef said she thinks the best shows for Netflix to make into games are the horror shows. “I think horror ones would be the best ones to do out of it because then you’re in suspense and you want to like click the option, but then you’re like, ‘Wait, what if I die?’” Yossef said. “I love the chooseyour-own-adventure type because I like being in control of things. I think maybe if they had a time limit for the chooseyour-own-adventure ones, that would give it a little more excitement.” Although the games option is not available on her app yet, Yossef said she is excited for when it is out on a wider scale. “When it does come up, I’m gonna be doing that instead of studying,” Yossef said. “I’m excited. I can’t wait to waste my time on it.”

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Learning to invest money properly is an investment in the future, and California Baptist University offers an introduction to the world of finance through the CBU Investment Club. Mason Steele, sophomore finance major and president of the CBU Investment Club, explained the purpose of the club. “The Investment Club here at CBU is really a place of learning,” Steele said. “Our objective is for anyone who attends our meeting to leave with applicable knowledge that they can actually use in the real world. Investing is a skill, just like a sport, that requires determination and a willingness to learn, but anyone can become proficient at it if they have those two traits.” Dr. Adele Harrison, professor of finance and the adviser for the CBU Investment Club, discussed the founding of the club. “The club was started over 10 years ago with the goal to give all students access to understand what investing is all about, so they gain (a higher) comfort level and will be willing to (invest) and understand more,” Harrison said. The investment club closed for a while, but was started up again in 2015. “When I got here in 2015, one of the students who had been a freshman probably when it stopped came back and said, ‘Hey, can we start up again?’” Harrison said. “So it has been going since the fall 2015, and our main objectives are to spend the fall semester getting students comfortable with terminology and concepts around investing. Then, in the spring, we usually focus on having a portfolio competition where they actually create. It’s fake money, but they get to practice

trading without losing their real Nelson said. “Like, if there’s a big flood, how would that affect money.” One of the biggest activities the US stock market?” Harrison went into more dethe Investment Club does is tail about the game. their portfolio competition. “One of the games we play is “The portfolio competition is something my predecessor we give them X amount of monstarted,” Steele said. “(The ey and — we make it simple, obviously — they portfolio compebegin with cash, tition is) creating bonds or stocks,” a paper trading Harrison said. group in which the “After you’ve club members can described what create their own bonds and stocks portfolio and act are, then they put as if they are partheir money in. ticipating in the Then we came market.” up with world Steele said beevents that could cause they are not happen, some seusing real monrious, but mostly ey in this, it is an silly. Then we excellent way to have this spinlearn about the Mason Steele ning wheel that stock market and understand what sophomore finance chooses, maybe, positive for it is like to parmajor and president stocks or negaticipate in this of the CBU Investment tive for bonds, without the risk of losing their monClub then people see how their portfoey when they are lio could react based on what’s learning. Steele said he enjoys the going on in the world.” Steele said he encourages meetings the most, during which he gets to meet new peo- students to join the club if they ple and introduce them to the want to learn about investing. “My advice to anyone who world of investing. “The meetings are my favor- wants to learn is to come to the ite part,” Steele said. “I get to club,” Steele said. “Investing see and meet all the new people is a practice that is extremely who attend and are just like me, difficult to master and gaining love investing and want to learn a strong foundation is the best more about it. We have free piz- way to start, which is what we za at 5:30 and then I lead a dis- provide.” The CBU Investment Club cussion and lecture on the topic for that day. Usually, I’ll incor- meets twice a month, every porate a game for a few minutes first and third Tuesday of the month in Room 103 of the as well.” Zachary Nelson, senior fi- Business Building from 5:30nance major and secretary of 6:30 p.m. Investing is an important the CBU Investment Club, described the kind of games they life skill that anyone could use, play at their meetings that and every student is invited and demonstrate the process of in- encouraged to join the CBU Investment Club at any of its vesting. “We did a game that shows biweekly meetings. The CBU how different things that go Investment leadership say are on in the world impact prices always open to more students of stocks and bonds and cash,” joining their meetings.

“

Investing is a practice that is extremely difficult to master and gaining a strong foundation is the best way to start, which is what we provide.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

February 18, 2022· Volume 69 · Issue 7

Annie Gabriel Library features student artists BY KASSIDY BLOUNT ASST. A&E EDITOR

Until recently, there has been alumni art hung in the library for student enjoyment. However, many art majors and creators on campus make pieces daily, and their hard work deserves to be noticed. Robert Diaz, access service manager at Annie Gabriel Library, has been working on this project of getting current students’ art displayed for about three to four years because he believes the students’ art deserves to be shared. “I think we have a lot of talented students, and I figured they would also want to participate in this project,” Diaz said. Current students Emma Limtiaco, Skye Jimenez and Marisol Murillo are some of the many artists who have their work newly displayed in the library. Their artwork is hung on the first level of the library and are some of the first aspects of the room visitors see when they walk in. All were happily surprised to discover that their talents were being displayed for all to see. Skye Jimenez, junior fine

“

I had no idea that this was happening, but I am happy that the library is appreciative of the art and allowed my art to be hung in the library. Skye Jimenez, Junior fine arts major

arts major and creator of her self-portrait, was shocked when she was told her art was displayed. Jimenez’s assignment was to create a self-portrait of herself by looking in the mirror. “I had no idea that this was happening, but I am happy that the library is appreciative of the art and allowed my art to be hung in the library,” Jimenez said. Emma Limtiaco, senior fine arts major, was given a similar assignment to Jiminez’s and took on her own approach. Most of her pieces were created for class assignments, such as Drawing II. “As a creative twist, we were allowed to add a color-based el-

Editor’s

Claire Grimes | Banner

Photos printed on sheets hangs around the room that houses the More Dreamers of the Gold ement, and I chose a monarch butterfly because I was always drawn to them in my childhood,” said Limtiaco. “Butterflies are a symbol of hope and transformation, both themes I try to live by.” Creating art is a personal task and incorporating yourself into the work is what

Reviews

By Rowen Zamora | A&E Editor

“Atlas Shrugged” The classic American book “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand is her fourth and final novel. It is a mystery imbued philosophical romance novel published in 1957. The story follows Dagney Taggart, a genius industrialist in a sea of incompetence and bureaucracy. Amidst the romantic rollercoaster and thick plot is a puzzling mystery built on the haunting personal question "Who is John Galt?” Before the book reaches climax every reader develops an answer and application for Rand’s ethereal “John Galt.” In addition to the significant nature of the work, it is also a beautifully written narrative perfect for any growing intellectual who enjoys a compelling story. The story is written in such a way that it showcases Rands own personal philosophy of the moral superiority of pure, unadulterated, selfish intentions. Rand makes you fall in love with her protagonist’s tenacity and raw ability while maintaining a steadily earned distaste for the antagonists. While old and long this narrative is still worthwhile as it displays the strength of human agency in a world plagued by apathy, turning the work into a philosophically powerful artifact for the ages. Although brilliant by design , “Atlas

Shrugged” falls short in its baseless slander of all religious ideology. Unlike her other claims, Rand seems to refute religion without any reasoning in her philosophy. Rand truly disappoints in this field and acts out of personal prejudice rather than any desire for truth. Despite its oversights, “Atlas Shrugged” is a timeless work that abstracts and elevates the heart of capitalism, innovation and free trade, giving it the potential to show any reader insight into the inner workings of the capitalistic ideal that many Americans strive for.

makes it beautiful. With the new artwork on display, students can hopefully gain some inspiration while focusing on their assignments. Marisol Murillo, senior entrepreneurship and marketing major, believed similarly and hoped that students would learn to love themselves when

Claire Grimes | Banner

Photos printed on sheets hangs around the room that houses the More Dreamers of the Gold looking at her art. “During the time I created this piece of artwork I had the opportunity to meet amazing and very talented artists and never did I think I would be selected among so much real talent,” said senior entrepreneurship and marketing major Marisol Murillo. “I am honored

and feel absolutely blessed.” While each piece was not made with the intent to be displayed for all to see, each piece provides a sense of originality to the library’s atmosphere. The new art pieces will highlight the work of student artists across campus, including many art majors.

Is your music moral? An ethical consideration BY ROWEN ZAMORA A&E EDITOR

Entertainment is riddled with controversy and ethical questions. From Cardi B’s “WAP” to Hillsong’s “Oceans,” there is a wide spectrum of content with a wider scope of messages. These content choices leave the modern consumer with the moral question: What should I consume? Dr. Greg Cochran, director of applied theology, speaks to this morally ambiguous dilemma. “Christianity offers us something that the tribalism of our world dismisses outright, namely, the ability to interact with other human beings on the basis of being created in the image of God,” Cochran said. This means that as Christians we can look past controversial media and see it simply as the imperfect creation of a fellow fallen human in need of saving. “We should have our guard up and we should learn how to think critically about what we take in and recognize that even though it may be emotionally or intellectually moving, it is not necessarily true,” said Noah Gauderman, sophomore applied theology major. Gauderman explains that regardless of what content is being consumed when one looks at something critically,

they can categorize parts of it as good and redeemable and other parts as bad and unredeemable.

“

We should have our guard up and we should learn how to think critically.

Dr. Cochran, Director of Applied Theology

The consensus that Gauderman and Cochran came to is that every thought should be taken captive and seen through the lens of Scripture. This necessarily means that there is no intrinsic ethical precedent on what should or should not be consumed in the realm of mainstream media. “If my mind belongs to Christ then I do not need to be threatened by ideas contrary to Christ,” Cochran said. “I know that Christ reigns and rules over all heaven and earth, so whatever these other people are singing, painting or writing, they are not dethroning Jesus, even if they desire to do so. I’m not dethroning Jesus when I am listening to other human beings who are created in his image.” While there is clear freedom in Christ that allows us to consume all manner of things, this does not validate all media consumption in Cochran’s eyes. “The thing Christians

should not do is listen to anything including ‘Christian music’ if they are doing so uncritically,” Cochran said. “What I think is not allowed in Christianity is an unengaged mind or unengaged affections. Frankly, if you think that you are going into things neutrally and imbibing in them for some neutral entertainment value, then you are doing wrong because then you are unwittingly giving yourself over to something and you don’t even know what it is. You are supposed to be taking every thought captive in obedience to Christ, and you are not doing that if you are passively letting other people shape your thoughts and affections.” While these are all important things to consider when making a decision, it is crucial to understand that every ethical decision is the responsibility of the individual. This reality is exemplified by Pablo Leiva, senior architecture major, as he describes his personal approach to entertainment ethics. “Everything we take in is a conversation of greater truth and through that language, we understand God,” Leiva said. “So to put it plainly we should set ourselves up with a good vocabulary.” When we are in “conversation” with anything, it is more beneficial to engage with God.

Review: “Moonfall” never becomes interesting, not worth watch BY JOSIAH MURPHY ASST. A&E EDITOR

When entering into a theater to watch a movie called “Moonfall,” one has to know what they are getting into, and if one is expecting anything less than the filmic equivalent of a “Mad Lib” written in a drunken stupor — seemingly by a toddler, no less — one can only be disappointed every single time. The “Citizen Kane” of movies about the moon falling into the Earth’s orbit, “Moonfall” does what it says literally in the title to the very end, never veering into anything less insane than the title suggests. It knows it is crazy, stays crazy and nev-

er tries to further the insanity. But it is never the good kind of craziness, insanity, or lunacy. Just the boring kind. And for those reasons alone, Roland Emmerich’s latest disaster movie is a disaster of a movie. If these characters, who are astronauts, had been replaced by monkeys then the movie would be exactly 100% more enjoyable. In fact, adding a monkey as the third character instead of conspiracy theorist K.C. Houseman (played by John Bradley) would make “Moonfall” an inherently more interesting movie. Not a better movie — just more interesting. And that’s all anyone could ever ask of a movie named

“Moonfall” to be: interesting. And this movie called “Moonfall” is anything but, especially when it comes to the character Houseman. It begs the audience — in my screening there was no audience, just me — to consider that conspiracy theorists MIGHT be onto something. If you cannot make that logical nosedive, as no one should, you can see “Moonfall” for what it is: pure, unadulterated lunacy from start to finish. The whole movie is dedicated to its insane premise while never giving in and having fun with any of it. “Moonfall” treats every moment like it is some earned, dramatic triumph, when really

“

If you cannot make that logical nosedive, you can see “Moonfall” for what it is: pure, unadulterated lunacy from start to finish.

all of the dramatic and emotional beats whiff it when they are at bat. After a while, it just becomes offensive in assuming anyone would care about any single thing happening on the big screen. Characters do things solely because they need to for the

movie to function as a movie. Never at any point will anyone gasp in shock or drop their jaw in wonder. This was meant to be his salvation for audiences stuck in the trenches of IPdrenched weekends with superheroes coming at the screen one after the other. Instead, audiences will be left with a movie that teases a sequel one would pay not to see and it all winds up feeling like a relic. It makes sense: Emmerich cut his teeth with ‘90s disaster-movie extravaganzas. “Independence Day” (1996) is a solid popcorn flick, “The Patriot” (2000) is red-whiteblue propaganda at its most melodramatic and overtly

multiplex accessible, and he was even somewhat ahead of the curve with “The Day After Tomorrow” (2004) and its climate-change basis (popularized last year with the allegorical “Don’t Look Up”). “Moonfall” was not made in the ’90s, but sure plays like it was with cheesy dialogue, clumsy plotting and cardboard-cutout thick characters that do things solely because a movie called “Moonfall” needs them to do those things so that the movie called “Moonfall” can end. And one can only end a review of the movie “Moonfall” in much the same way. By just ending it. 1 out of 5 stars.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

Ceramics

Continued from Page 1

Just when it seemed like the class was too good to be true, we can come to understand the spiritual and emotional benefits to the ceramic arts. “Ceramics is the most revealing art form, especially throwing (a technique used to make clay mugs and pots that requires centering a lump of clay on a wheel),” said Sara George, ceramics teaching assistant and senior fine arts and art therapy major. “We always talk about if you are not centered, you are not going to be able to center.” George expanded on the therapeutic nature of working with clay. “We hold tension, we hold trauma, we hold everything in our physical bodies,” George said. “All that stress is directly translated into clay when you are working with it. The clay doesn’t lie. “The clay is going to tell you what is going on. It’s a great mirror for yourself to reflect when you are having those moments where you are just stuck on something or really frustrated step back and ask what’s going on with me.” While the reason for the therapeutic nature of ceramics is hard to pin down, it is theorized that it is related to the

“

Most students just miss the feeling of being able to work with their hands and express really complicated emotions. Amanda Santos, Adjunct ceramics professor

fulfillment found in working with one’s hands. “Most students just miss the feeling of being able to work with their hands and express really complicated emotions,” Santos said. If the benefits of this class

During the semester, students are taught different techniques to perfect their projects. seem to come across as specific to only the “artists” and “creatives,” then consider the opinion of Baily Berzansky, freshmen accounting major and current ceramic student. “I think it’s a nice stress

Most Anticipated Movies for 2022 "The Batman" (dir. Matt Reeves)

“Ambulance” (dir. Michael Bay)

“The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” (dir. Tom Gormican)

The Northman”

(dir. Robert Eggers)

“Nope”

(dir. Jordan Peele)

“Thor: Love and Thunder” (dir. Taika Waititi)

“Blonde” (dir. Andrew Dominick) “Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse (Part One)” (dir. Joaquim Dos Santos)

“The Fabelmans” (dir. Steven Spielberg)

“Babylon” (dir. Damien Chazelle)

Luis Menendez | Banner

relief, getting away from class and (not) worrying about all the work I have to do, just being able to focus on one thing,” Berzansky said. While the class is intrinsically therapeutic and fun, it

Photos by Kia Harlan | Banner

Ceramics students can express themselves through working with clay.

does require the student to complete work. Some of the tasks students will be assigned include learning to throw (the process by which mugs and pots are made on a wheel), learning to hand-

bill (the process by which a piece is made without the use of a wheel and relying on pinching and smoothing clay) and learning to glaze (the process by which a finished piece is covered in a thick sand based

chemical mixture). The student will additionally be pushed to develop their artistic process and exercise the full spectrum of their inner creativity through the media of ceramic art.

TikTok: Social media app offers platform for emerging artists BY KASSIDY BLOUNT ASST. A&E EDITOR

There is one app in particular that everyone knows about, even if you do not have it yourself. That app is TikTok, which has quickly taken over the eyes of 1 billion users worldwide since its launch in September 2016. TikTok is a place where many people like to post or watch funny and creative videos. TikTok is one of the few platforms that allows you to become popular by doing any talent, not just singing or dancing, but comedy, acting and many others as well. When you are swiping on the “For You Page,” you have likely noticed that the same song can appear multiple times. A song from decades ago or a song that came out yesterday can go viral in an instant, and everyone on the platform will know about it. Some people make dances for the songs, some create a trend for others to follow and some try to make the song their own through singing or playing it themselves. “I would recommend students to post their musical talents on TikTok, but I do think you need to be cautious with TikTok,” said Debra

White, communications pro- est song, “Fingers Crossed,” fessor. “I know people get re- currently has 14 million ally famous from it, so if it is a streams. In the months leading venue you can use to promote up to the release of the song, she posted clips of the song on your talent, why not?” Currently, many users uti- TikTok to create buzz around lize TikTok and its power to the song. Now, her music even expand their popularity. Many gets played on the radio. “I heard the song, ‘Fingers artists hoping to create interCrossed,’ on est in their TikTok and music post was extremesongs on Tikly happy when Tok. In fact, it was remany wellleased,” said known artAmelia Motists launched ley, freshman their careers pre-nursing on TikTok. student. “I reLauren lated to that S p e n c e r song from Smith is an past experiexample of ences, and I TikTok fame. was glad to She got her hear a song start by goDebra White, that resonates ing viral on YouTube and Communications Professor with me.” Whether then went on you are a muto “American sic major or Idol.” Even though she did not win the just someone gifted with mushow, she gained a large follow- sical talent, your music can being. That inspired her to start come just as popular as artists posting covers of already pop- like Dixie D’Amelio and Priscilular songs, and she went viral la Block if you post your songs on TikTok for her cover of “All I on TikTok. “Some of my favorite music Want” by Olivia Rodrigo. Now she is currently releas- comes from the people that ing her own music, and her fans really push their songs on Tikcould not be happier. Her new- Tok, which inspires me to do

“

I think because so many people are on TikTok and it’s so popular, I think that’s probably a good venue to get your music out there.

the same,” said Isaac Reinherz, sophomore applied theology major. “I’ve been making music since the start of high school and have been posting on TikTok since summer 2021.” Sudents like Reinherz can put their music out on TikTok and get noticed. So far, he only has 157 followers, but that is enough to start getting noticed. It only takes one song to go viral in order to gain a name for yourself and your music. TikTok and the “For You Page” are all based on algorithms. What type of hashtags are posted in the videos you like, and what song is in the background of the video is what makes things go viral. When enough people repeatedly like the same song or hashtag, it will show up on more people’s pages. That’s why getting recognized is so easy on TikTok. By utilizing TikTok and its effect on society today, artists’ gifts can be shared in the world, and they can receive recognition for their hard work and talent. The more you post and use popular hashtags and songs, the more you will be recognized and the quicker you will go viral. So if you are a talented student wondering how to get noticed, start posting on TikTok and share your gifts with the world.

SPORTS

February 18, 2022· Volume 69 · Issue 7

Women’s basketball jumps through hoops to finish season

WAC headlines

A review of the women’s team’s season: So far, so good

ACU 6-GAME WIN STREAK

Abilene Christian University men’s basketball beat Tarleton State 77-76 on Feb. 12. Starting halftime at 13-1 (ACU), several players including Coryon Mason, Cameron Steele, Tobias Cameron, Reggie Miller and Airion Simmons increased the lead through foul shots, three pointers and scoring inside. On top of that, closer to the nine-minute mark, #23 scored some points on two straight possessions. In the end, ACU won with a 14-point win. Abilene Christian remains ranked sixth in the WAC with eight conference wins and five losses. ACU is now on a six-game winning streak.

BY AIDEN HOBSON MANAGING EDITOR

The California Baptist University women’s basketball team has been continuing to build on its unprecedented 2020-21 season, with a strong showing against conference and non-conference foes all season. The Lancers opened the season with a game Nov. 9 against their cross-town rivals, the University of California, Riverside, Highlanders. They played hard and finished the game with a win of 62-59. The CBU women’s basketball team then traveled to Corvallis, Oregon, on Nov. 17 to play the then No. 15 team in NCAA college basketball, the Oregon State Beavers. The Lancer women fought hard but ultimately lost to Oregon State, 72-80. The team then returned home to Riverside to play the University of California, Irvine, Anteaters in the CBU Events Center. After an exciting match that went into overtime, the Lancers came out on top with a win, 93-88, on Nov. 20. The CBU women’s basketball team traveled to Moraga, California, to play the University of California, Santa Barbara, Gauchos and the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs in the Saint Mary’s Thanksgiving Classic tournament on Nov. 26 and 27. The Lancer women took home both wins against their opponents, winning 68-56 and 91-77, respectively. The Lancers competed at

AGGIES’ FIRST SIGNING Elijah Hickman | Banner

Ane Olaeta, graduate student, passes to her teammate Britney Thomas to help them win against Chicago State. home against Pepperdine University and San Diego State University on Dec. 2 and Dec. 8, respectively. CBU beat Pepperdine 63-57 but fell to the SDSU Aztecs 77-78 in a nail-biting game. On Dec. 11, the Northern Arizona University Lumberjacks hosted the CBU women’s basketball team. The Lancers won with a score of 89-73. A few days later, on Dec. 14, the University of California, San Diego Tritons lost to CBU at home, with the Lancers winning by one point, 74-73. The CBU women’s basketball team continued their travels and went to Santa Clara for a game against Santa Clara University on Dec. 18; the Lancers beat their opponents 58-54. Finishing up their final game of 2021, the team journeyed to San Luis Obispo to complete California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo on Dec. 21. The CBU Lancers closed out the year with an exciting win in

Softball goes to bat against top teams this year BY AIDEN HOBSON MANAGING EDITOR

The California Baptist University softball team has had a tough schedule to open the 2022 season. The Lancers have faced some of the top teams in the country in their first campaign, with a tournament appearance in Arizona at the Kajikawa Classic and a game against local competition in the cross-town showdown against the University of California, Riverside. On Feb. 10, the Lancer softball team played their first game of the spring 2022 season against Arizona State University, a top-25 ranked team and member of the competitive PAC-12 conference. According to a press release by CBU athletics, the CBU softball team played hard against the ASU Sun Devils but lost 0-8. The next day, the Lancers played another top-25 ranked opponent, battling the No. 15 Duke University. The CBU softball team scored four runs against the Blue Devils in the top of the first inning, according to a CBU press release, but Duke responded decisively, and the Lancers lost, 4-15. The CBU softball team played a double-header on Feb. 12, facing No. 2 Oklahoma State University and unranked Missouri State.

The Lancers fought hard against one of the highest-ranked teams in the country and played a very successful game. After Oklahoma scored one run, the CBU team responded with a run of their own. The Lancer defense fought hard to keep the tie, but ultimately fell to the Oklahoma State onslaught, according to a CBU press release. The final score was 3-1, Oklahoma State. After playing a difficult game against Oklahoma State, the CBU softball team quickly refocused and played against Missouri State. The Lancers opened the game in dominant fashion, scoring six runs in the top of the first, according to a CBU athletics press release. The Lancer softball team eventually went on to win the game, 8-2, marking their first win of the 2022 season. The Lancers finished their first tournament of the 2022 season against the University of Utah Utes. As a member of the PAC-12 conference, Utah was poised to offer stiff competition and did not disappoint. The CBU softball team fought hard and scored one run, but ultimately fell to the Utes, 1-11, according to a CBU press release. The CBU Lancers will play another tournament in San Diego starting on Feb. 18.

overtime, 66-64. Now in the new year, the CBU women’s basketball team has played a slew of games against Western Athletic Conference foes. Starting with Chicago State on Jan. 8, the Lancers beat the Cougars at home in Riverside, 73-60. They then played the Dixie State Trailblazers in St. George and won again, 88-60, on Jan. 13. The Lancers stayed in Utah to play against Utah Valley in Orem on Jan. 15. CBU took the win, 83-68. They then traveled to Seattle, to play against Seattle University on Jan. 17; the Lancers won again, 76-66. After coming home to Riverside, the CBU women’s basketball team hosted Tarleton and Abilene Christian, new additions to the WAC, on Jan. 20 and 22, respectively. The Lancers won against both opponents, beating Tarleton 85-69 and Abilene Christian 77-71. The team went on the road to Texas, where they faced new

WAC opponents in Sam Houston and Stephen F. Austin on Jan. 27 and Jan. 29. The Lancers dropped both games, with scores of 65-73 and 62-79, respectively. The CBU women’s basketball team returned home, where they hosted New Mexico State and Grand Canyon University. The Lancers decisively beat the Aggies on Feb. 3, 92-64, but lost against GCU on Feb. 5 with a score of 52-61. On Feb. 10, the CBU team traveled back to Texas to play against Lamar University. The Lancers won against Lamar, 7156. They then stayed in-state to play University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and decisively defeated UTRGV with a score of 94-78. The CBU women’s basketball team will play against GCU again on Feb. 17, Seattle on Feb. 19, Dixie State on Feb. 24 and Utah Valley on Feb. 26. The Seattle, Dixie State and Utah Valley games will be at home.

New Mexico State head football coach welcomed the newest selections for the 2022 football season on February 2, 2022. Three student-athletes from around the nation signed their National Letter of Intent for the 2022 season and beyond. Coach Kill’s has a class of 24 signees as of Wednesday. Nineteen individuals finalized their intent to join the Aggies in December while 5 more committed in January. This is Jerry Kill’s first class of football signees.

TARLETON SOFTBALL WINS Tarleton State softball finalized the win against North Dakota on Feb. 13 with a score of 5-3. TS has a clean 5-0 mark to begin their season. Austin Germain worked a bases-loaded walk that gave the Texans their 3-2 lead. Two innings went scoreless when Brady Rowland worked a one-out walk and two batters later, Capell changed the final lead. Senior right-hander Julia Wernet allowed three unearned runs on five hits and five walks while striking out five in her seven innings of work.

SUPER BOWL LVI

1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Rams vs. Bengals 6:22 0:28

Matthew Stafford connects with Odell Beckham Jr. for a 17-yard touchdown.

12:51 5:47 Cooper Kupp receives an 11-yard pass from Stafford for a touchdown.

The Bengals score a 29-yard field goal to put their first points on the board.

3:54

The Bengals Beckham suffers score their a noncontact first injury, reportedly touchdown an ACL tear, with a during a pass six-yard pass. from Stafford.

14:48

14:44

The Bengals score a The Bengals touchdown, creating intercept the ball, controversy due to a face resulting in a mask non-call. 38-yard field goal.

5:00 Kupp makes a crucial 4th & 1 conversion for the Rams.

1:25 After a series of major penalties against the Bengals, Kupp scores.

7-3

Rams

2:10 13-10

The Bengals intercept a long pass by Stafford. but fail to score.

5:58 The Rams make a 41-yard field goal.

0:43 The Rams defense solidifes victory by ending the Bengal’s drive.

Rams

16-20 Bengals

23-20 Rams

RAMS WIN 23-20

Emily McGinn | Banner

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

LANCER ON THE STREET

How do you feel about the new Recreation Center dress code?

Seth Corvera Sophomore Entrepreneurship major

“It seems like people have mixed feelings about it.”

Jessica Morales Sophomore Psychology major

“It was taking away what people can wear, which is kind of sucky for people (because) it’s a way of expressing yourself.”

Wendy Torres Sophomore Communication sciences and disorders major

“I think it’ll make it more comfortable for those new to the gym or aren’t used to it.”

Brianna Stahl Junior Social work major

Jermaine Martin Freshman Architecture major

“I respect it since we are a “People are right to be unhappy Christian school but it does with the changes, but there needs get really hot in some of those to be some sort of understanding upstairs exercise rooms.” of why they changed it. “

Colleges should not serve fast food Film industry must adapt quickly or die

BY EMILY MCGINN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

You are walking across campus on a beautiful, sunny morning. The air is crisp and fresh. You breathe deeply and then you smell that familiar stench of excessively salted fries and fried chicken. Yes, it is Chickfil-A ramping up for another busy day of serving hundreds of meals to students on campus.

Fast food is a phenomenon that has surged on university campuses across the U.S. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Food Distribution Research in 2015 found that more than 70% of college students eat fast food daily. It is clear even according to the most basic standards that this habit is not healthy. Yet we as college students seem to gravitate toward fast food on campus. As a society, we need to take steps to prioritize the health of college students and provide healthier options for students on campuses. Before we can learn how to fix this issue, we must first understand the appeal of fast food on campus. First, it is convenient. When students are grabbing food in between classes or trying to work meals into tight gaps in busy, stressful schedules, fast food can seem to be the best option, especially when schools locate fast food in cen-

tral areas on campus. The second reason many of us enjoy fast food is more scientific. Fast food contains large amounts of sugar, additives and fat, which we crave. As a result, these elements cause the brain to release pleasure-inducing neurotransmitters such as dopamine and oxytocin when we eat fast food. Thus, fast food can fulfill the desire for “comfort food,” which can be appealing in a high-stress environment such as a college campus. Although we cannot necessarily change the scientific makeup of our brains, we can improve college dining options. Since one of the main draws of fast food is convenience, we need to make health convenient on university campuses. Instead of placing fast food dining options at centralized places on campus, we should replace these options with quick, efficient options that have healthier ingredients. With healthier

options in convenient locations with quick turnaround times for meals, students will find healthier options appealing. However, we as students cannot solely blame schools and society for the prevalence of fast food on campuses. As individuals, we must put our health first and become intentional about pursuing healthier options. We must take responsibility for our bodies and what we put in them. The change has to start with us, the students. As a society, we must realize that it is a mistake to ingrain the fast food craze into the daily lives of young people. As citizens blessed to live in a nation with access to many healthy options, we should take advantage of the resources we have and make them more accessible on college campuses. If we replace fast food with better options, we can live better and feel better as we move forward.

Dear future pastor: please read

BY AIDEN HOBSON MANAGING EDITOR

Modern Christianity, at least in the U.S. and other Western countries, is based primarily on the written accounts of Jesus’s life contained in the four Gospels, along with the other texts contained in the Christian Old and New Testaments. The en-

tirety of the religion is based on a collection of texts, a book. Yet many Christians, especially of the evangelical Protestant variety, love reading the Bible but decry the “academic” study of the Bible, theology and church history and the dense academic tomes that accompany those disciplines. Why do “people of the book” seem to hate books so much? In my experience as a Christian Studies major, I have heard many of my classmates complain about the reading assignments in some of our classes. Despite the helpful encouragement of our professors, my fellow School of Christian Ministries majors constantly whine and grumble about having to read a four-hundred-page book in two weeks. To all my classmates, especially those who plan to become pastors, missionaries and other

leaders in our churches, I would like to say: You need to stop complaining and start reading. Reading is not just for the scholars and theologians; all Christians are called to meditate on God’s word and study the Bible. Yet why we do stop at just reading the Bible? Living in the U.S. in the 21st century, we have unprecedented access to vast academic resources about all manner of topics relating to our faith. All Christians should take the time to utilize these resources. “I don’t like reading,” one might say. Then maybe you should reconsider your vocation, because if you are committed to ministry then you should be committed to learning about Jesus (who is primarily revealed to us through Scripture, a book). “I don’t learn much when I read,” another might object.

Well, unfortunately, gaining knowledge via osmosis has not been perfected yet so you are going to have to read. For the past 2000 years, every saint who came before us learned more about their faith primarily through studying the Bible and other texts related to the Bible and theology; I can guarantee you will learn a lot more from reading than you will from watching another minute-long Instagram clip by the latest trending young mega-church pastor. Let us be thankful for the opportunities we have been given to learn about God and our faith from passionate academics who have spent their lives studying the subject they have written a book about. So again I say: Future pastors, missionaries and church leaders, stop complaining and start reading.

Brilliant Rule of the Week On Oct. 15, 1982, The Banner staff wrote a column titled “Brilliant Rule of the Week” in which they point out one of the brilliant rules enforced by the university. I felt the need to bring it back when I saw that beginning Feb. 14, the Recreation Center would begin to require a dress code. It would be wrong not to acknowledge the brilliance of this rule. The dress code cites “safety and hygiene” as the chief reasons, and I cannot think of a greater danger within the gym than crop tops, sports bras and certain types

of tank tops. Sure, there are 45-pound plates and barbells, but crop tops and short-shorts have the most potential to cause harm. I would also like to recognize the dazzling logic of this rule. Especially after recent health crises, we know there is nothing more valuable than hygiene. It is a brilliant idea to force students to wear certain outfits instead of taking other, much less logical steps such as placing more disposable wipe dispensers in accessible places around the gym, or promoting the practice of wiping down

equipment. I have some suggestions that I think could help us advance “safety and hygiene” even further. Here is my proposal: We start with the Recreation Center, and then in a few months, we ramp up the dress code to encompass the whole school. After all, I think we need to ensure “safety and hygiene” everywhere on campus. Every couple months, we can gradually lengthen the requirements for shorts (for example, we can add an inch more to the length requirement each month), and in about a year or so, I think we

could ban shorts altogether. It might take a year and a half to reach a stage when we can only wear pants or skirts, but I think we can get there if we are strategic about it. In about three years, I believe we could transition to full uniform, for the sake of “safety and hygiene,” of course. The Recreation Center was a great first step, though. Sheer brilliance. For more installments of Brilliant Rule of the Week, check out The Banner’s archives online at the Annie Gabriel Library website.

BY ALEXZA BAHNMILLER ASST. B&T EDITOR

Growing up, going to the movie theater was an all-out event. Where should we eat beforehand? Are we going pajama casual or fancy? Should we buy a large popcorn or splurge on a bucket? (Tip: Large buckets hold just as much, and they often are also refillable and cheaper). However, movie ticket sales have decreased almost 70% since 2002, according to movie data provider The Numbers. In 2020, AMC Theatres alone lost $4.6 billion and Regal Cinemas lost $3 billion. ArcLight announced on April 13, 2021, that it would be closing down its cinemas for good, including the beloved Cinerama Dome in Los Angeles. If movie theater ticket sales have been on the decline, there must be somewhere else people are getting their movies. A common alternative to the theater used to be rentals such as Blockbuster and Red Box. Unfortunately, Blockbuster filed for bankruptcy and closed in 2014, and Red Box reported a 34% decline in revenue in 2020. The next answer would be streaming services. Currently, the largest streaming service is Netflix, with a net worth of almost $180 billion in 2022, according to Market Cap statistics. But, Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos stated in a CNN interview that viewing statistics confirm television content is viewed far more than movies on streaming services. Annual reports from Viacom and Time Warner display that their TV shows drive more than 80% of their profits. As film consumption decreases, the film production business runs into trouble, as studios begin to close, too. In 2021, Blue Sky Studios, the 20th Century Fox animation division, closed its doors due to “economic realities.” Even the Oscars, an award ceremony for the film industry, had a 51% viewer drop between 2020 and 2021.

The real question isn’t “Where are people watching movies?” but, “Are people watching movies anymore?” Streaming services have helped TV shows blossom, giving audiences the ability to marathon entire seasons in days. Reality shows like “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” and “The Hype House” give viewers a peek into the lives of influencers. Game and reality shows make for great get-togethers, such as “Bachelor” nights. Yet, I would argue, TV shows’ purpose is to entertain. In contrast, films aim to be artistic. TV shows depend on you to click the ‘Next Episode’ button. They depend on you to tune in next week. More often than not, the plot that will win the audience over is the plot many TV producers choose to go with. Shocking and scandalous are the key words. In contrast, many films are art pieces, even masterpieces. Historically, films have been used as ways to inspire citizens, send political messages, and advocate for change. For example, in the 1940s, France used film as a way to rebel against Nazi occupation during WWII and maintain their cultural pride through film symbolism, such as in “Children of Paradise” by Marcel Carne. Films can also be controversial and can focus on the message that needs to be told, because, unlike TV shows, usually the end of one film is the end of the viewing experience. With no airing deadline, more time can be invested into production. Directors can spend their lives on a singular script, making sure every part is perfected. Small things can be carefully curated every step of the way (the script, lighting, acting, sound, tone, etc.) In contrast, TV show scripts run through weekly, or even sometimes daily. Plus, going to the movie theater offers an experience that our couches often don’t live up to. Gasps by the audience when a huge plot twist occurs, staying until after the credits to see ‘extra scenes’ and even just showing up early to see ‘Trivia’ questions are theater experience exclusives. I remember when the Twilight franchise had ‘midnight premieres,’ (2008-2012), and I did indeed dress up in my Twilight merch and debated with fans in line over why Team Edward is better than Team Jacob. Those premieres are core memories of mine. Though it can be tempting to jump on the couch and reopen “Grey’s Anatomy,” perhaps switch it up by checking out your local theater or putting on a new indie film. It’s up to us to save this dying art form.

February 18, 2022 · Volume 69 · Issue 7

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OLYMPICS CROSSWORD CLUES

Across 1. Sport of Julia Marino and Red Gerard 2. Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue won bronze in this 4. Lay down and go fast to win 5. Sport of Chloe Kim and Shaun White 7. Go fast on ice: _______ skating

Down 1. Nathan Chen won gold in this 3. Kaillie Humphries and Elana Meyers Taylor went one-two in this 5. Hit the puck 6. Ice shuffleboard