The voice of Sacramento State since 1949.
ISSUE 3, VOLUME 72
SEPTEMBER 13, 2017
WWW.STATEHORNET.COM
The DACA decision: One week later What Sacramento State — and the nation — stand to lose | News page 4 , editorial page 18
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DIAMOND DUO COME TO SAC STATE FOR ‘LIFE IS A DRAG’ SHOW page 16
WOMEN’S SOCCER BEGINS 5-GAME ROAD TRIP page 13
With the new Ramona Lot officially in operation this semester, we decided to ask a few students how they feel about parking there thus far. Subscribe to YouTube.com/StateHornet for move videos of campus news.
Our sports editor went to a practice session of Sacramento State’s football team three days before its first home game — and victory — of the season at the Hornet Stadium. Check out his coverage @AngelGuerrerooo and follow us @TheStateHornet for similar updates. A red balloon tied to the sewer drain outside Douglas Hall on Sept. 7 as an ode to the new “IT” film triggered many students’ curiosity. Sac State spokesperson Craig Koscho said it was most likely a prank by the movie’s fans. Check out the “IT” photo @StateHornet and follow us for features of similar campus stories.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Barbara Harvey editor@statehornet.com
SPORTS EDITOR
Angel Guerrero sports@statehornet.com
FACULTY ADVISER
DIGITAL EDITOR
OPINION EDITOR
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
Vu Chau digital@statehornet.com
Khanlin Rodgers opinion@gmail.com
To stay up to date with news, go to statehornet.com/news
Tyler McElmurry tylerjmcelmurry@gmail.com
CULTURE EDITOR
Sharlene Phou culture@statehornet.com
TITLE IX UNDER REVIEW: Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced last week her office is looking into the nature of how Title IX was changed by the administration of President Barack Obama when it comes to the reporting and follow through on sexual assault and harassment claims. The State Hornet will have more on this story, including how it may affect college campuses like Sacramento State, in the coming days.
DESIGN EDITOR
MANAGING EDITOR Kameron Schmid editor@statehornet.com
SAC STATE SAYS page 8
In Volume 72, Issue 2 of The State Hornet, there are no corrections listed.
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Cover photo by Joseph Daniels
all views expressed herein are the responsibility of the state hornet and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Sacramento state
NEWS EDITOR
Claire Morgan news@statehornet.com
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Matthew Nobert photo@statehornet.com
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The DACA response: ‘We need to stand with them’ A week has passed since the announcement that the Trump administration would end DACA, handing it off to Congress with a six month deadline to legislate a possible replacement. For the estimated 1000 undocumented Sac State students and 65 DACA recipients, six months is now a timer running down to the unknown. // By Claire Morgan
T
he Trump administration formally announced its plans to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on Sept. 5, a decision which inspired a host of reactions from members of the Sacramento State community, including protests and lawsuits. DACA provides amnesty on a renewable two-year basis for more than 800,000 undocumented immigrants. California has over 200,000 DACA recipients, which is more recipients than any other state in the country, according to the latest US Citizen and Immigration Services report. To be eligible for DACA, applicants must have arrived in the United States before the age of 16, and have lived there since June 15, 2007. Additionally, applicants must have been younger than 30 when the US Department of Homeland Security introduced the program in 2012. The Department of Homeland Security will stop reviewing applications for the program as of Tuesday, but will allow current holders to renew their statuses for
the next six months to allow Congress to deliberate if the program will be continued, and to what capacity. Sacramento State had 65 DACA holders last spring according to Elisa Smith, the previous communications director for Sac State. “That includes those on F-1 visas (they are seeking a degree) and permanent residents (they have green cards),” Smith said in an email to The State Hornet in January. Craig Koscho, the acting news director for the university’s public affairs and reporting office, said that there are around 1,000 undocumented students who attend Sac State. To many, the decision was not a surprise — it was an executive order made by then-president Barack Obama which Donald Trump spoke about changing, according to CNN. However, many DACA recipients like Gloria Del Aguila and Araceli Mancera felt a range of emotions when the decision was announced. “First is the denial,” said Mancera. “Then you’re like, ‘Oh man, I need an ID. I need this,
need that.’ Now I’m in between anger and empowerment.” Del Aguila reiterated that, like many other undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients living in America, coming to the country was not her choice, adding that she is glad to be here now. “Before, I used to blame my mom about it, but now, it’s like you know she risked her life to bring me here to give me a better future,” said Del Aguila. “So I’m actually thankful for that. I don’t blame her for anything.” On the day of the announcement, a group of students gathered in the library quad to protest the decision. Led by Rosa Barrientos and other members of Students for Quality Education, students chanted and spoke in favor of DACA programs before marching around the north end of campus. “Now more than ever, we need to stand with them and show the undocumented students that they have a family and that they have allies that are willing to stand with them during their times of need,” Barrientos said during the demonstration. Jorge Quintana helped Barri-
entos organize the protests, and said that it was important for students to help each other when faced with adversity. “We want to show the Sac State community that we’re vocal about these issues,” Quintana said. “Today it’s undocumented students, but tomorrow it could be black students, Muslim students. We want people to show solidarity.” Barrientos, Quintana and a few other students who work with the California Dream Network helped to organize another protest off campus, in front of the US Customs and Immigration Services field office on Capitol Mall. Martha Ancajas, a DACA recipient and Sac State student, attended the protest and said that she felt as if the dialogue was a positive part of an otherwise disappointing situation. Ancajas said the decision “breaks my heart,” but felt empowered by the resistance showed at the protests. “It just gives me hope to keep organizing, to keep fighting as a dreamer, as an activist,” Ancajas said.
Story continues on page 6
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CLAIRE MORGAN - The State Hornet Hundreds gathered downtown on Tuesday, Sept. 5 to protest President Trump’s decision to end the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program.
Continued from page 5 Sac State President Robert Nelsen attended the afternoon protest, chanting along with the crowd on the same day he and ASI president Mia Kagianas sent out statements on the issue to the Sac State community. Nelsen urged members of the campus community to support and protect undocumented students, citing the decision to remove DACA programs as a “political statement.” Nelsen was one of 650 college presidents to sign an open letter which advocated for the DACA program. “This is both a moral imperative and a national necessity,” the letter says. “America needs talent – and these students, who
“America needs talent – and these students, who have been raised and educated in the United States, are already part of our national community. They represent what is best about America, and as scholars and leaders they are essential to the future.” -From the open letter signed by 650 college presidents, including President Nelsen, in support of DACA have been raised and educated in the United States, are already part of our national community. They represent what is best about America, and as scholars and leaders they are essential to the future.” Nelsen is not the only leader in the CSU system to denounce the Trump Administration’s approval — California State University Chancellor Timothy White sent a message to the CSU community in which he defended the rights
of undocumented students on campus. “We will continue to vigorously pursue the CSU’s commitment to advance and extend knowledge, learning and culture; to provide opportunities for individuals to develop intellectually, personally and professionally; and to prepare educated and responsible alumni who are ready and able to contribute to California’s culture and economy,” read the letter. “To that end, I will continue to
advocate for our current and future students and employees who are affected by this unfortunate development.” Chancellor White joined five other California university system presidents in signing a letter of support for the DACA program addressed to the California Congressional Delegation. Both the UC Regent and State Attorney General Xavier Becerra have filed suit against the Trump Administration in response to re-
scinding DACA programs. Becerra cited California’s economy as his main point of concern. Both governor Jerry Brown and lieutenant governor Gavin Newsom have showed support of these lawsuits. “President Trump has arbitrarily and unlawfully manufactured a crisis in the lives of fellow Californians,” Newsom said in a press release. “The U.C.’s DREAMers and its staff are integral to the academic and intellectual fabric of our campuses, and it is paramount that the University protects the future workforce and families of California.” Additional reporting by Joseph Daniels »» Follow The State Hornet on social media and at StateHornet.com for additional DACA coverage.
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DACA: The facts. Misinformation has permeated conversations about DACA. Here are some facts to help you better understand what’s at stake in the battle around DACA both nationally and at Sacramento State.
200,000 of the approximately 800,000 current DACA recipients live in California — more than any other state.
65 of those 200,000 attend Sacramento State, according to an estimate provided last semester by the college.
72 percent of DACA recipients are pursuing higher education, according to a recent survey from the Center for American Progress.
90 percent of DACA recipients were listed as currently employed in the CAP survey. The U.S. will lose an estimated $460 billion in GDP over the next decade without DACA.
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SAC STATE SAYS
How do you feel about the decision to end DACA?
Last week President Donald Trump announced that he would rescind the executive order by President Barack Obama issuing
the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), leaving it up
By Kameron Schmid
to Congress to legislate a replacement if there is to be one. We
@kameronschmid
asked Sac State students for their thoughts, and want to know yours too, so chime in using #SacStateSays on any social media
#SacStateSays
platform. Interviews have been condensed for clarity.
“I have a lot of Latino and Hispanic friends who have friends affected by this decision. It’s just like, why would you want to do that to someone who’s been here? ... These are great people who have lived here for their whole lives; they’re American.” - Christopher Kwon Mechanical engineering
“Personally I feel like it’s not really fair to them because they were brought here as children and it was their parents’ decision. ... As long as they’re being productive, I think we should try to find a way to make them citizens.” - Michelle Ciccarelli Accounting
“Everyone deserves a chance to succeed. If they made it this far, I don’t think they should (be deported). They were already protected.”
I feel like he’s just doing it to prove a point to his party, as a political move. Honestly, it’s bad integrity and ethics if you think about it, letting down all those students who are trying to get citizenship or a higher education.”
“I don’t think it should be repealed ... since those kids were here and it wasn’t their fault, they should be able to stay. If the government can figure out a way to replace it … I just feel like the kids shouldn’t have to go away.”
- Vincent Pace Criminal justice
- Bianca Talamantes Nursing
- Amandeep Kaur Liberal studies
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FINISH IN FOUR TURNS 1: HAS IT BEEN EFFECTIVE? Vu Chau @vchau2020
Sacramento State President Robert Nelsen said in his fall address Aug. 24 that the Finish in Four initiative has positively affected the university’s graduation rates even when the program has only been enforced for one school year. “Finish in Four” began in fall 2016 as a Sac State commitment to help incoming freshmen earn their degrees within four or six years, and transfer students within two, by offering incentives like discounts on summer classes and campus products, as well as more academic advising sessions. In return, students must sign a pledge to enroll in at least 15 units per semester to be on track to reach 120 units to graduate — a plan that Nelsen hopes would raise the four-year graduation rate from 8.3 percent to 30 percent by 2025. Nelsen also mentioned in the address that 64 percent of freshmen signed the pledge during the program’s first year, while 84 percent signed this fall. The program also helped usher in at least six new academic advisors, 89 new faculty members, and more than 12,000 added seats in 658 new course sections throughout all departments. Executive Director of University Initiatives and Student Success Jim Dragna said that the plan is working and the university is progressing to reach that 2025 goal, as there was a 12.5 percent increase from 51.6 percent to 64.1 percent of freshmen enrolling in more than 15 units during their first semester. “The difficulty here at Sacramento State was over the last 30 years, we have really balanced between 8 and 10 percent of students being able to graduate in four years,” Dragna said. “And that needle hasn’t moved much in recent years.” He also said the university determined the effectiveness of Finish in Four by examining how many students enrolled in the program are on track for their second year and other data. One of the program’s main objectives is to be more proactive by using this data. Dragna, who is known as the “graduation czar” for his
focus on increasing graduation rates, said Sac State has always examined the rates post-graduations, and then complained about how low they were. Part of being more proactive includes shifting the “campus culture” by showing support at all times, such as academic advisors reaching out to students throughout the semester. A total of 2,347 freshmen committed to taking at least 30 units during the 2016-17 school year, and one of them was now-sophomore psychology major Gina Gargano, who said that she’s expecting to finish in four because of the pledge, in addition to being in the honors program. “I don’t take any more classes than I currently have or am required to so that’s a relief,” Gargano said. “I really don’t want to extend the amount of time that I’m here (at Sac State).” For freshmen like electrical engineering major Nicholas Johnson and pre-biology major Aliyah Penn, there’s a newfound pressure to get through college within four years by being bound to the contract. “The contract is like a reality check,” Johnson said. “Being to able to sign something physically kind of keeps it in the back of your head to follow the requirement every semester.” Penn also said that being a pre-biology major can make it hard to get classes, but with Finish in Four’s incentives, she could use the $1,000 discount on summer courses to take up more units to be on track for graduation. Even with the program’s rigorous assistance effort, Dragna said only 50 percent of the total freshmen enrolled completed 15 units for fall 2016, and there was a 10 percent increase in the number of those who are progressing into their second year this fall. Sophomore social work major Paula Melissa is one of the many students who did not complete the first year requirement and is no longer in the program. “Spring semester was tough,” Melissa said. “It was a hard first year especially with the whole transition, having to live away from home and dealing with financial problems. I failed a couple of classes as a result of that.” Melissa said she’s now working to finish this 12-unit semester with good grades to get back on the Finish in Four program and graduate within four years.
VU CHAU - The State Hornet
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FOOTBALL
Check out our football photo gallery at www.statehornet.com
MATTHEW NOBERT - The State Hornet Sacramento State junior receiver Andre Lindsey runs past University of Incarnate Word sophomore safety Chris Thomas for a touchdown Saturday at Hornet Stadium. Lindsey finished with four receptions for 176 yards and one touchdown in Sac State’s 56-22 victory over UIW.
Hornets down Cardinals 56-22 in home opener Angel Guerrero @AngelGuerrerooo
After losing its first game of the season, the Sacramento State football team bounced back with a 56-22 home opening victory over the University of Incarnate Word Cardinals Sept. 9 at Hornet Stadium. Sac State (1-1) began the game with an interception from junior transfer quarterback Kevin Thomson to UIW junior safety Jawun Jiles. However, after a fumble recovery by Sac State senior defensive end Ben Sorensen, Thomson hit senior receiver Isiah Hennie for a 44-yard touchdown with 11:02 remaining in the first quarter.
“It was a good (game) for sure,” Thomson said after becoming the first Sac State quarterback to toss five touchdowns since Garrett Safron in 2014. “We had a sour taste in our mouth after the Idaho game, especially from an offensive perspective because we played lights out on D last week and they played lights out again.” After the first quarter, Sac State still held onto its seven-point lead over UIW (0-2) and true freshman running back Elijah Dotson, who finished the game with one touchdown and 74 yards on nine carries, balanced his way down the right sideline and juked a defender for a 51-yard rushing touchdown. Sac State junior cornerback Dre Terrell, who tied the Sac
State program record with three interceptions, then grabbed his second interception of the game at the time to set up a seven-yard touchdown strike from Thomson to sophomore receiver Johnnie Rucker. UIW — which began its season with a 66-0 loss to Fresno State — experienced déjà vu as the Cardinals trailed 21-0 with 9:51 left in the first half. “Coaches drew up a great game plan and (UIW) came out here and did everything we expected them to do and it put us in a perfect position to make plays,” Terrell said right before roommate Hennie interrupted the press conference to shout congratulations to him. The Cardinals scored their first points of the season after Dotson
fumbled the ball and freshman kicker Jose Perez connected on a 19-yard field goal to bring the game to 21-3. The Hornets responded with a 35-yard pass from Thomson to junior receiver Andre Lindsey and then a two-yard rushing touchdown by graduate transfer Joseph Ajeigbe for a 28-3 lead entering halftime. The Hornets proceeded to enter cruise control as they allowed the Cardinals to score 19 points in the final two quarters of the game. UIW struggled to gather consistency as the San Antonio, Texas based team produced only 75 rushing yards, 231 passing yards and turned the ball over five times. Sac State added 28 more points to the scoreboard and fin-
ished with 535 total yards on offense to end the game with a 5622 win. Sac State will continue its three-game homestand with a matchup against Weber State (11). The Wildcats — who only lost 33-20 to Cal on Sept. 9 — will enter Hornet Stadium with a 13-8 advantage dating back to 1996 and a two-game winning streak in its last two contests against the Hornets. “They’re a good team and they’re very well coached,” Sears said in preparation to Saturday’s 6 p.m. kickoff against Weber State. “They’ve got a lot of talent and a very capable quarterback and it’s going to be a major challenge for us.”
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VOLLEYBALL
Student trades competition for coaching Fluette earns assistant role, offers ‘physical presence at practice’ Dayla Cook @daylapearl
Students are familiar with living life with a lot on their plates by way of balancing school, work, family, internships, relationships and teams — as Sacramento State student John Fluette is aware. Fluette has never known a life that didn’t involve a volleyball and a net. His parents played the sport while he was growing up and as soon as teams were available, he signed up to play. The Antelope native began his volleyball career in middle school and continued to play throughout high school. Afterwards he began to play for the men’s club volleyball team at Sac State. In his five seasons, he had been named a two-time All-American, four-time all league selection and served as team captain for two years. In July, Sac State women’s volleyball coach Ruben Volta announced that Fluette would be the team’s newest assistant coach for the 2017 season. Volta, who has led the team for the past nine seasons, is confident in the newest addition to his coaching staff. “Obviously he plays on the men’s club team here, so for us it was someone who knows the game of volleyball really well,” Volta said. “He’s a really good player. He’s someone who gave us a physical presence at practice, too. Someone that could facilitate drills for us (and) he just did a really good job of that for us.” With multiple seasons on the club team, Fluette is bringing his skill to the women’s volleyball court. Fluette receives high
MATTHEW NOBERT - The State Hornet Sacramento State assistant volleyball coach John Fluette instructs freshman setter Ashtin Olin during practice Sept. 6 at Colberg Court. Fluette is also a student at Sac State majoring in environmental studies.
praise from Sac State players such as senior setter and 2016 first team all-Big Sky Conference selection Kennedy Kurtz. “He was by far one of the best players on the club team for the past five years,” Kurtz said. “That’s why we respect him a lot because he as a player is really good himself.” Fluette said his two years as a volunteer helped cultivate his path towards his official title.
However, as a student, mentoring his peers from a faculty standpoint was daunting. The task of occupying a leadership position amongst those who he called friends brought recognition to the dynamic of the team. “The only concern we had coming into this season was that I was only a student the last couple seasons and we were friends outside of school,” Fluette said. “But it’s OK and it’s worked out
really well because they knew the situation (and) we all knew that we could handle it.” Although he has had a remarkable career as a club athlete, transitioning from player to coach was an eye-opening experience, Fluette said. “You see a lot of different things that you don’t see as a player because when you’re playing you don’t focus on a lot of things that you think you
should, or are told to,” Fluette said. “I’ve realized things that I did as a player that I never realized a coach would see.” Fluette said he doesn’t play very much anymore after almost breaking his ankle while playing last season, but with his environmental studies degree in sight and graduation just a few semesters away, Fluette’s got plenty to balance on his plate.
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WOMEN’S GOLF
Sac State looks to recapture Big Sky title Thomas Frey @ThomasFreyRP
Winning the Big Sky Conference women’s golf tournament did more than bring back a trophy to Sacramento State — it brought along a sense of confidence and motivation to repeat as champions. The Hornets return four of their five starters from a year ago in senior Astha Madan, junior Julia Becker and sophomores Sofie Babic and Nishtha Madan. “Those are the four best players we have ever had,” said David Sutherland, the Hornets head coach. “We have the ability this year to win events we haven’t won
in the past, to beat teams in the Power 5 Conferences. It’s the best team I’ve ever coached.” Babic played as an amateur on the Swedish Skandia Tour over the summer while Astha and her sister Nishtha returned to Sacramento early from their home in India to work with Becker, freshman Corinne Viden and the rest of the team in an effort to recapture the conference crown. “I have worked with a swing coach and made swing changes,” Astha Madan said after averaging a score of 75.28 per round last season. “It is much better than it was a year ago.” The practices and qualifying rounds have gotten competitive to the point that last year’s starters
— who all averaged a score under 76 per round — have competition to keep their starting spots. “I think everyone on the team can play in the top five,” Babic said. “Last year it was the same five who went to every event. This year, it could be anyone.” The main competitors for the top five starting spots are junior Katie Dunaway, sophomores Danielle Lozano and Amelia Hicks, and Viden, a freshman from Sweden. While there may be competition, it will be difficult to take any of the incumbent four out of the starting lineup. Becker is coming off a season where she was named to the Big Sky first team, while winning the Rainbow Wahine
Invitational and finishing in a tie for first at the Wyoming Cowgirl Classic. The Madan sisters were both named to the Big Sky third team. Astha posted three top 10 finishes and an average score of 75.28, while Nishtha averaged a 75.55 and had the highest score on the team in the NCAA Regionals. Babic was also named third team all-conference after finishing the season with a 75.41 average and three finishes in the top five as a freshman. Aside from playing on the professional tour in Sweden, she spent at least four hours per day working on all aspects of her game and lifted weights to add power to her drives. “I really focused on my swing
and tried to fix it a little bit,” Babic said. “When you don’t have school, you have so much more time to practice.” Babic said she liked how the Hornets gelled as a team last year and how each member of the team is a better player then they were a season ago. “The best part of it was that everyone was contributing to it,” Babic said after her first year in the United States. “We are all very solid players and I think we will be even better this year. Winning conference, I think that is big.” Sac State will open its season Sept. 18 in the Cougar Cup hosted by Washington State in Pullman, Washington.
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WOMEN’S SOCCER
JOSEPH DANIELS - The State Hornet Sacramento State senior forward Kylee Smith attempts to dribble the ball past Cal Golden Bears forward Miranda Nild Friday at Hornet Field. Sac State lost to the Golden Bears 2-1 in double overtime.
HORNETS BEGIN 5-GAME ROAD TRIP WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM EMBRACES ADVANTAGES, SETBACKS OF AWAY CONTESTS Carlo Marzan @SultanKoY
The Sacramento State women’s soccer team began its fivegame road trip, stretching from Sept. 11-24, with a win Monday at rival UC Davis’ Aggie Soccer Field. Going on an extended road trip can be grueling as players partake in long bus drives, uncomfortable study sessions and the intense games themselves. The Hornets (4-3) have already experienced
three overtime matches and all seven games all decided by one goal, so it’s easy to see how these student athletes could be overwhelmed. “It’s tiring for them, they miss class and they’ve got to bring homework on the road,” said Randy Dedini, the Hornets head coach. “We just got to manage our time, but sometimes going on the road is not a bad thing because we can totally focus on what we have to do.” However, none of these setbacks stop senior defender Chelsea Arnold from enjoying her time
on the road. Arnold said keeping up with her school work is doable and she’s able to enjoy her trips thanks to help from others. “I love being on the road, honestly,” Arnold said. “I like to just chill in the hotel room. As long as you keep up with your homework and everything, usually professors are pretty cool about rescheduling any quizzes or tests you missed. When your professors are accommodating, it works out OK.” Another factor to this dynamic is the Sacramento community, or lack thereof, during these
away matches. Despite last year’s positive 4-2-1 road record and an undefeated away standing this season, freshman goalkeeper Aaliyah Fesili is quick to note what she misses during away games. “Definitely the community support,” Fesili said. “It means a lot to us players on the field. We get to support our boys, too, usually, but if we’re on the road then we can’t, so we’ve got to support them in spirit.” During this upcoming fourgame stretch, Sac State will visit San Luis Obispo, Bakersfield,
Washington and Idaho. However, Dedini said he is confident with his group due to their showing against UNLV and Power 5 programs Texas and Cal. “Those are the toughest games on our schedule so we feel like we’re in a good place right now,” Dedini said. “We just got to get a little bit healthier and go in with confidence on the road and get it done.” Sac State will next play at Cal Poly at 4 p.m. Friday at Alex G. Spanos Stadium in San Luis Obispo.
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TYLER MCELMURRY - The State Hornet
Five podcasts you should be listening to Sharlene Phou @sharlenephou
It’s time to turn down whatever pop song you’ve been listening to on repeat and try something new: podcasts. Podcasts offer a different listening experience because listeners can choose from a variety of subjects that spark their interest. From sports to politics to relationship advice; podcasts have it all. Impress your friends by listen-
ing to The Daily every morning and being up to date with current events. Or, tune in to 2 Dope Queens on your way to your most dreaded class and find yourself laughing as you enter the classroom door. Unlike reading, podcasts don’t require any effort past pressing play. But, you’re still getting stimulation within your brain, unlike
when you binge watch Friends for the third time. Listen on your commute to work or while you’re sitting in the morning traffic trying to find a parking spot on campus. Or even listen to This Is Why You’re Single for dating advice while shopping at the grocery store. Podcasts can be downloaded to smartphones through a podcast
app like Pocket Casts, the podcast’s website, or streamed through Spotify. Iphones have a pre-downloaded podcast app that allows users to subscribe to a huge selection of podcasts. It can even be programmed to delete episodes when you finish them, so they doesn’t clog up your phone storage. Unlike most audiobooks, pod-
casts are free to download. And most podcasts focus on a different topic each episode, allowing listeners to skip the ones that don’t appeal to them. Podcasts, such as S-Town or Serial, tell a story throughout the season. These podcasts connect one episode to the next, taking the listener to distant places to uncover mysteries.
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TOP FIVE
Comedy
2 Dope Queens
Podcasts
Sports
A live comedy show hosted by friends Jessica Williams, former correspondent for The Daily Show, and comedian Phoebe Robinson. These two talk about everything from relationships to pop culture. Each episode guest stars about 2-3 up and coming comedians, giving listeners a variety of comedic stories.
Mystery and Thriller
Around the NFL
S-Town This podcast gives listeners the latest football news. Get ready for bickering and bantering between co-hosts Gregg Rosenthal, Dan Hanzus, Marc Sessler and Chris Wesseling as they take listeners through NFL highlights. The podcast steers clear of in-depth interviews and fantasy football picks to give listeners insight on players and teams. A word of warning: co-host Marc Sessler’s has an undying devotion to the Cleveland Browns which is constantly being brought up, but nevertheless his loyalty is inspiring.
Politics and News
The Daily
It’s important these days up to date on political news. The Daily, a podcast created by The New York Times and hosted by Michael Barbaro, dives into 1-2 current political issues each episode. The episodes are supplemented with in-depth analysis and interviews with political leaders. The podcast airs every weekday morning, for 20 minutes each episode. Related articles from The New York Times are linked to each episode for listeners who want more insight.
From the producers of This American Life and Serial, comes a seven episode story about a man named John B. McLemore living in a small Alabama town. John thinks a murder took place in his town and asks host Brian Reed to investigate. Reed encounters quite a few colorful characters in the town and finds himself facing a lot more than he expected.
Relationships
This is Why You’re Single If you’re looking for dating advice, your search is over. This podcast is hosted Laura Lane and Angela Spera, co-authors of the book This Is Why You’re Single, which became the title of their podcast. Each episode tackles a different dating topic including how to deal with ghosters and dating as an introvert. Though Lane is married and Spera is in a relationship, the two offer a funny and insightful look into dating in the 21st century.
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The State Hornet
Shine bright like a Diamond Diamond Duo makes Sac State drag show debut Sharlene Phou @sharlenephou
Sacramento State fraternity Delta Lambda Phi will present its semi-annual “Life is a Drag” show that will feature seven drag queens, including Sacramento’s own “Diamond Duo” Tatianna and Adriana Diamond. Those familiar with the local drag community may recognize the two Diamonds from their sixyear residency at Faces Nightclub in Midtown. The pair host variety and competition shows every second and fourth Sunday of the month. Competitions at Faces called “The Gig,” welcomes drag queens in the community to show off their individual talents. The queen who receives the loudest applause from the audience wins a $300 grand prize. DLP member Brian Ratto said that drag is the art of illusion, where drag queens are typically males who create the illusion of a woman with help from makeup, wigs and an elaborate wardrobe. Some drag performances include lip syncing, dancing and acrobatic movements. “(Drag is) the act of any male, female or non-binary (person) giving off the illusion of a gender they are not typically defining themselves as.” Not only are they partners on stage, Tatianna and Adriana are also a real-life couple of eight years. The two became the Diamonds after discovering they both shared a love of drag.
“I was just getting out there in the Sacramento community, doing little shows and auditions every now and again,” Adrianna said. “Then I found Tatianna and I just fell in love with her. We just brought up, ‘Do you do drag?’ Ever since then, I was just really open about (drag). I was really comfortable about it and we became the Diamonds.” Adriana Diamond previously danced in high school and spent five years as a color guard in the Mandarins Drum and Bugle Corps. Diamond said that drag is another way to express herself as a performer, something she has been doing most of her life. Tatianna Diamond, known off stage as Tati Garza, started dressing in drag when she was 19 and has been performing in shows ever since. Garza described herself as a very quiet person and prefers to keep to herself when she is not performing in drag shows. Garza said that her alter ego, Tatianna, is a more outgoing and glamorous girl. Garza fully embodies that character in her mind to go along with her appearance when she is on stage. “It’s literally like a switch,” Garza said. “If you have anything bad or going on in your life, you have to shut that off and you have to completely take on a different mentality to get through the show. That’s how I do it. ” The Diamonds design their own clothes for drag events and find most of their materials at thrift shops and fabric stores. Clothes, wigs, makeup, shoes, and other drag accessories are
Photo courtesy of Adriana Diamond Tatianna Diamond, left, and Adriana Diamond, right, wear matching red dresses for a Christmas Day show they hosted at Faces Nightful. The event was a benefit held for LGBT families in the community who did not have a place to go for Christmas, Dec. 25, 2016.
stored away in just two closets of their shared home. A signature of the Diamonds is their trademark sparkle, something they incorporate into their outfits by using rhinestones or crystals. “When you see me, I want you to be blinded by all the diamonds,” Diamond said. “Just showgirl, big hair, glamorous, queen diva is here ready to destroy the stage and perform for everyone.” Both Diamonds are scheduled to perform for “Life is a Drag” that will take place on Sept. 19 in the University Union Ballroom where Garza will also serve as the
host of the show. Tickets will be $10 at the door and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Sacramento Gender Health Center. “I think people should just enjoy (the show) and have fun because that’s what drag started out as,” Garza said. “It started out as entertainment. I think people have taken it a little too seriously to the point where there’s a lot of misconceptions as to what drag really is, when it’s just supposed to be enjoyment for the people watching and the people performing.” Editor’s note: Brian Ratto was once a member of the State Hornet staff.
WHEN:
Sept. 19 WHERE:
Union Ballroom TICKET:
$10.00
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www.StateHornet.com
Review: ‘Insecure’ Season 2 Soundtrack
HBO releases soundtrack for the hit series two days before season finale Khanlin Rodgers @khanlibear
Spoiler Alert: Review contains spoilers for Season 1 and the first half of Season 2. Season 2 of the HBO Original Series “Insecure” opens with the main character, Issa Dee, reeling from the events of the Season 1 finale and, in the process of trying to take matters into her own hands, only ends up torturing herself with ideas of things she knows she can’t have. Issa finds herself out on a date with her ex as “Scared Money” by NxWorries plays softly in the background. The smooth beat and ‘80s style synths help set a
romantic tone and atmosphere to convince the viewer that things are going to work out for Issa. Then, reality sets in and the audience learns that Issa is actually out on one of many Tinder dates in a futile attempt to get over her last relationship. She becomes increasingly frustrated with herself and the background music changes to samples of forks and knives banging on a table as “Cheater for One” by Issa Rae begins. The song is a made to resemble a freestyle rap and is performed by the main character as an internal monologue that voices her frustration of the current situation. This practice is a staple of the series that allows the audience
to get a look at Issa in her rawest, truest state and relate with her. “Insecure” is a complex show with complex characters and most of the world-building successfully comes to life through the soundtrack. As one of the music consultants for the series, Solange Knowles has a lot of say in which tracks make the cut for the show and which don’t. A lot of the most effective song choices enhance Issa’s personality traits and reflect how she feels in any given situation. “Attitude,” an upbeat, bassy song about self love and confidence by Leikeli47, plays when aspects of Issa’s work and social lives start to work out in her favor and gives the audience the feel-
ing of hope that her situation is improving. “Supermodel”, a song by SZA that tells the story of a woman who doesn’t see her own selfworth and relies on others to find it, plays in the background when Issa is at her lowest and seeks validation and happiness wherever she can find it. However, these connections and relationship between the music and the character don’t translate so well when viewers are only provided with only half of the equation. As amazing as the soundtrack is in conjunction with the show, their relationship becomes a bit of a crutch when the two are separated.
The soundtrack loses a lot of meaning and feels a lot more like a “Friday Night Kickback” mixtape you would play when you’re hanging out with your friends. Albeit, a mixtape curated by Solange Knowles, but a mixtape nonetheless. On their own and when played on their respective albums and EPs, the individual songs are still well done. Having individual titles by separate artists make the soundtrack more fragmented than a score primarily produced by one group of people. If you’re looking for more fluid, cohesive listening experience, you’re better off looking elsewhere. Go to StateHornet.com for samples of the album.
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The State Hornet
EDITORIAL
CLAIRE MORGAN - The State Hornet Rosa Barrientos, center, leads a chant while walking with a group of protesters around Sacramento State after the DACA decision was announced on Sept. 5.
Stand with them, Sac State As America approaches the paper anniversary of President Donald Trump’s election victory, it has been clear since he gained power that directive number one for his regime is to serve the interests of the strong at the expense of the weak. Not weak at heart, to be clear. Someone weak of heart would, for example, bar transgender individuals from serving their country in the military, deny political refugees entry into “the land of the free” or seriously endanger the lives of generations to come by ignoring the colossal evidence of climate change’s catastrophic effects on the planet. Remember those things? They all happened, this year. Don’t forget. And civil rights? Don’t get us started on civil rights. Or do. Interested in a job securing our border? Have minimal qualifica-
tions and you’re in. Brought here as a child and known nothing else your whole life? Beat it, kid. Better luck never. Political refugees — and temporarily, U.S. citizens travelling as normal — were barred from entering the country, and many refugees remain so banned. Almost every country in the ban is majority Muslim, but it isn’t a Muslim ban, apparently. Planned Parenthood, and the 97 percent of its patients cared for who did not seek an abortion, had federal funding stripped away, as did every abortion providing service, despite the many other services provided by PP that federal funding did help. Workers — that includes every race, gender, sexuality, political and religious belief — will soon see workplace condition regulations drop, as well as their positions like temps and contractors weakened.
Financial and environmental regulations are consistently being stripped from corporations. The Paris Accord, hailed by scientists as humanity’s first true attempt to ensure a future for the planet as we know it, pulled out of faster than you can say Al Gore. Flint, Michigan still doesn’t have clean drinking water. North Dakota’s indigenous Native American tribes may soon join them, courtesy of the Dakota Access Pipeline underground flow of oil. Banks will fare well under Trump, just like they did under George W. Bush. Less regulations will open them up, fingers crossed this time they don’t collapse. Historically black colleges and universities, many of which had leaders summoned to the White House early this year for a lovely photo-op, may lose a key source of funding. Because, you know, they serve a group of people systemical-
ly disenfranchised by this nation, and that’s the newest no-go. Some things didn’t catch. We still have the Affordable Care Act, for now. Treasure it while you have it, debt-riddled 20-somethings with a college degree, and all those reading that will soon be exactly that. You too, laid-off members of Generation X. Fingers crossed Medicaid will exist when you retire, and then when we do. And some things have yet to be seen. But if you had stock in Russia or South Korea’s political power, you’re fortunes are looking up, as the doomsday clock ticks down. It’s time to recognize the pattern of preying on the vulnerable that the Trump administration has established. And it is time to remember that though Trump is on the chessboard, he is not the real king. Meaning the game isn’t over once he’s gone.
If you believe that the rights of every citizen should be guaranteed (i.e., the rights that white American men are afforded without question), then it’s time to step up and pay attention to what’s happening, and do whatever you can to mitigate. Let’s be frank. As college students, we don’t often get a lot of say in the policy decisions that have been made. What we do have, however, is the ability to support those who have been affected by those policies. And that is exactly what is needed now. Stand by your fellow students. Be cognizant of their struggle. Use your voice to help make theirs louder. Recognize that the actions taken now in the White House will have long consequences for the whole country, and make an effort to improve the lives of those less fortunate than you as a result.
www.StateHornet.com
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OP-ED
Be an advocate for suicide prevention The time to be afraid of awkward conversations is over. It’s time to talk about mental health and depression. Carlo Marzan @SultanKoY
In May, a friend of mine had ended his own life. By the end of June, I had seen the entire first season of 13 Reasons Why, a Netflix Original Series revolving around the aftermath of a teenage girl’s suicide. In July the lead singer of Linkin Park, Chester Bennington, killed himself. Needless to say, suicidal thoughts were on my mind throughout the summer. Suicide is a sensitive subject that many people deal with, no matter which stance we take on it. September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day and it also marks the beginning of the National Suicide Prevention Week. During this time, and for the foreseeable future, it is our duty as Sac State students to put more effort into looking out for the wellness of our peers. 1. We can’t continue to perpetuate the negative connotations of suicidal thoughts and depression. My biggest concern when dealing with depression (both my own and with others) is whether I was legitimately depressed or if it was all in my head. Individuals can get mixed emotions trying to convince themselves that they aren’t or shouldn’t be depressed, sometimes even making the person feel worse in the process. The reason some people do this is because they don’t want to look weak in the public’s eyes. Depression and mental illnesses are associated with weakness and instability. This often leads to the individual attempting to avoid the situation all together. We shouldn’t have to be afraid to admit that we are feeling depressed and we shouldn’t look to others as lesser for doing so. 2. Every person has their reasons for their depression and suicidal thoughts.
One of the biggest things going against ‘13 Reasons Why’ is its depiction of suicide as a justifiable response to certain life events. The reality of suicide is the fact that it isn’t always taken to an extremes. Sometimes the smallest reasons can set something off in person, and we have to help them deal with it. There doesn’t need to be justification for a person’s actions when it comes to dealing with suicide. You can never truly understand what another person is going through; each person’s experiences are unique to themselves. You can empathize with them, but you can never fully understand how they think and feel. As an advocate to prevent suicide, you shouldn’t have to question their motives. They are hurting and you need to be there for them, regardless of the ‘why’. 3. It comes and it goes. It really is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Understanding this can help both people dealing with their own depression and those helping others with their depression. Depression doesn’t go away with a single treatment. Being aware that your depression and mental state can come back at anytime can help you prepare yourself for what’s to come. There is no stopping it, but anticipation for it helps in waves. It can be hard to learn that a close one is dealing with depression/ suicidal thoughts and even more difficult to open up about your own. Whatever it takes, people are ready and willing to help. I would rather be the one to stay up at night listening to your thoughts than finding out the next day. Call (916) 368-3111 for a 24hr Suicide Prevention Crisis Line or (916) 278-6461 for the Student Health and Counseling Center.
CARLO MARZAN - The State Hornet The Health and Wellness Promotion office is located on the first floor of The WELL. Here, students can seek the help they need, schedule counseling and attend wellness workshops.
Your first job after college can look like this. Do the unexpected. Apply by October 1: peacecorps.gov/apply
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