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Wednesday Sept. 25, 2019 | Vol. 83, Issue 5
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Featured Artist: Karlie Heynneman
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CLIMATE
News
Locals gather for Climate Strike
Luxury housing is pricey for students
Three luxury apartment complexes sit on Nord Avenue and Walnut Street, proudly advertised as the height of student living.
See A4 Sports
Paradise Bounces Back
“Resilience” is defined as “the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.” The Paradise High School football team seems to be the embodiment of that word.
See B3
Art
Drag Show at the El Rey Performers and partygoers filled the El Rey Theater Friday night to celebrate Coco, a local drag queen’s, birthday.
Carolyn Allen & Julian Mendoza Staff Writers
Chico joins the rest of the world in the climate strike on September 20. Students of all ages and community members gathered for the Chico Climate Strike where they demanded a change in legislation and encouraged others to take action in the fight again our changing climate. Chico is one of many cities across over 150 countries participating in the climate strike. “Today is the first day of the international climate strike Greta Thunberg, who is a 16-year old Sweedish activist, who’s become this revolutionary leader in the climate movement called for this international climate strike,” said Sofia Lepore of the Climate crisis
club the Sunshine Movement. “So today along with millions of others we are striking for the climate.” Throughout the event different members of the community got up to discuss climate change and current laws surrounding sustainability. Many asked that future leaders be held accountable for their actions and find new ways to improve current laws. Student Emily Chiesa was outraged by the current state of our climate and those who reject that it is changing. “I’ve been seeing statistics everywhere about what could happen if we don’t start making changes. It horrifies me and should horrify everyone. How
Students crash Area 51 “raid” Staff Writer
Opinion
Reflections on virginity It’s a sticky subject: virginity.
See A3
CONSPIRACY
Emily Neira
See A6
THE ORION | MELISSA HERRERA
High school students joined other protestors at the downtown plaza in Chico on Friday for the Climate Strike.
Two million people signed up for the Facebook event to “raid Area 51” on September 20th. When that event evolved into a music festival called AlienStock 2019, over 30,000 people RSVPd. Nevada’s Lincoln County declared a state of emergency. The venue, a hotel and bar called The Little A’Le’Inn, could not provide food, water, and gas for all of the guests. The county combined resources even though they were unsure if people would arrive at all. When the date finally rolled around, they got their answer. Authorities estimate about 1,500 people were in Rachel, Nevada for the event on Friday. Visitors
See B5
in alien costumes, tin foil hats and Naruto gear parked their cars and pitched tents on either side of the long two-lane desert road. The owner of the inn, Connie West, was happy to see so many people show up. “I am on my highest high,” West said. “I don’t think there’s a word in the dictionary to describe how I feel.” Visitors came from all over the United States. A woman from Mt. Vernon, Ohio said that she wasn’t sure what to expect, but that she was definitely happy with what she saw. Other visitors felt that the excursion wasn’t worth it. Roland Pittman and his friend Asa Robinson drove for three days to get to Rachel from New Jersey. “There’s no one here doing anything,” Pittman said. Though, he had made a foil hat for himself earlier that day. Some extraterrestrial-seekers travelled overseas for the event. Chani, a visitor from Germany, decided to add Alienstock to his west coast tour. He enjoyed playing pick-up volleyball on the net somebody set up in the dirt field. From Australia, Jo Jamin and his daughters Bethany and Brooke
NATURE
Taking out the trash at Bidwell Park
THE ORION | MELISSA HERRERA
Volunteers brought their trash bags here to be sorted through.
Ricardo Tovar Staff Writer
A dump-truck full of trash and several bins full of recyclable items were picked up and sorted Saturday at Hooker Oak Park. The park was a meeting ground for the community of Chico. A wide range of volunteers including students and families all freed their days to make sure Bidwell stayed clean. The 32nd Annual Bidwell Park and Chico Creeks Cleanup, hosted by the Butte Environmental Council (BEC), had around 500 volunteers.
See A5
Index
Corrections Weather Blotter
A2 A2 A2
Briefs News Features
A2 A3 A5
A&E Sports Opinion
A6 B3 B5
Weather
Precipitation: 0% Humidity: 46% Wind: 8mph
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TheOrion.Com
The police blotter is a section of information cited directly from Chico Police Department and University Police Department
University Police
Chico Police
Call Type: DUI
Call Type: Assault
Friday, Sept 20th 1:49 a.m. Block of W 6th St/ Hazel St.
Tuesday, Sept. 17th 6:28 p.m. 600 Wall St.
Call Type: Larceny Theft
Check out Angel Ortega’s Movie Critique online at theorion.com
Possible death due to injury Call Type: Larceny
Friday, Sept 20th 11:05 p.m. 500 Block of Legion Ave
Monday, Sept. 16th 12:00 a.m. 600 Hazel St.
Call Type: Narcotics Violation
Call Type: Larceny
Wednesday, Sept 18th 9:01 p.m. 200 Block of Normal Ave
Tuesday, Sept. 17th 12:00 a.m. 1500 Springfield Dr
Call Type: Vandalism/Graffiti
Call Type: Assault
The best entertainment is free. Head Online and listen to The Orion Podcasts. theorion.com/podcasts
Friday, Sept. 20th 7:04 p.m. 1000 Columbus Ave
Tuesday, Sept 17th 7:11 a.m. 400 Block of Cherry St.
Call Type: Shoplift Friday, Sept. 20th 7:54 p.m. 1900 E 20th St. Call Type: Vandalism Saturday, Sept. 21st 5:43 p.m. 200 Normal Ave Subject attempted to gain access to Elite Barbershop by grinding off lock. Caller believes competing business-owner to blame. Call Type: Camping Illegal Saturday, Sept. 21st 10:43 a.m. 1500 Vallombrosa Ave Call Type: Juvenile Problem Saturday, Sept. 21st 10:35 a.m. 200 W 2nd St. Caller reported minors she knows purchased tobacco products illegally. Caller type: Stabbing Saturday, Sept. 21st 2:06 a.m. 300 Cedar St.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting arrest leads to struggle Angelina Mendez Staff Writer
On Sunday evening, the Chico Police Department (PD) responded to a call leading them to the Kohl’s store to arrest a suspect shoplifting from the store At around 6:54 p.m., an employee at the store pointed out the suspect to Chico PD, according to Chico PD’s news release. While the officer attempted to arrest and detain the shoplifter, the suspect reacted violently, which led to a
Corrections The Orion issues a correction in the previous issue for a story by Angelina Mendez on the “rape trail.” The previous story stated that the Annual Security Report reported 18 total rapes in 2019. This number was incorrect, the actual total is 9, which occurred only in campus housing. In addition, in our report on the death of student Lenon Padilla, we incorrectly reported his age to be 21. Padilla’s age was 20 at the time of death.
physical struggle. Eventually, the suspect was finally taken into custody and identified as a 25-year-old Mark Bailey. Bailey was finally arrested for shoplifting and resisting an officer. During the incident, both Bailey and the officer suffered from minor injuries. Bailey is currently being held pending further investigation. Angelina Mendez can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com.
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Image from Chico Police Department. 25 year-old Mark Bailey was arrested for shoplifting and resisting an officer.
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News
CLIMATE
Locals gather for Climate Strike
Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
PARKS
A3
Taking out the trash at Bidwell Ricardo Tovar Staff Writer
THE ORION | Melissa Herrera Volunteers grabbed cans, glasses, and other recyclable materials out of bags like these.
THE ORION | Melissa Herrera (Top) Greg Ginn (guitarist) and Mike Valley (vocalist) jam out on the stage. (Bottom, Left) Fans held their horns up high during the set. (Bottom, Right) Theo shredded on the guitar and moved all around the stage during his performance.
Continued From A1
bad this could get and how bad it is now,” Chiesa said. At the strike, there were also a variety of tables and booths promoting sustainable practices including the Butte Environmental Council. Sam Steadman, an intern for the council and Chico State student, was encouraging people to take up sustainable gardening practices. “We really want everyone in the Chico community to get involved in sustainability talks,” Steadman said. Many members of Chico State administration and faculty were also in attendance, including President Gayle Hutchinson. “I see this as a very important day - it’s a global strike but I’m happy to see Chico State and the city participate,” Hutchinson said. The plaza floor was drawn on with chalk by people who received them from a booth on the south side. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were handed out as well. “We are making peace, bravery and justice sandwiches here and giving them out to folks,” Mark Stemen said, a professor of geography and planning at Chico State. The sandwiches were handed out
around noon for break. governments and institutions, “I’m here today with the there’s either climate inaction or Extinction Rebellion - we don’t call not enough action done to stop our it climate change, we call it human climate crisis, that’s threatening extinction and we believe the only our ecosystems that are threatening way to stop it is to get in the streets,” our way of life,” Maggie Scarpa said, Stemen said. one of the Board of Directors at the The table Stemen used to make Butte Environmental Council. those sandwiches were next to one Scarpa ran the previous climate with a variety of books, flyers and a strike in March when she was partbox of chalk called the Disobedience time coordinator of Education And Kit - underneath it was a flyer of Outreach in the Associated student disobedient slogans. The chalk was body, along with Jared Geiser who free for anybody interested. was the executive vice president of “So we’re here advocating AS Sustainability at the time. non-violent civil disobedience She continues to advocate for in response to climate change,” climate change. Stemen said. “I came out here to mobilize A similar strike happened back in with others to ask and demand for March on campus, where students radical change with the way that walked out and voiced their we consume with the way that we concerns about the status of the transport things… I came out here climate. Stemen believes that this with all these people to hopefully movement is an extension of that demand more,” Scarpa said. continuing to spread further. According to her, only 3% of the “I think this is the wave that’s population needs to be involved in been building across the campus action like this in order to make and across the town and across the change. country,” Stemen said. “So I am hoping this will push us This time the strike is being in the right direction locally and organized by more than just globally,” Scarpa said. students. The town itself is able to take action along with the rest of the nation. One Chico State student is still advocating for climate Julian Mendoza and Carolyn Allen can be change after she graduated. orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com. “I believe that with our
ADMIN
As tuition skyrockets, administrators see pay raises Kimberly Morales Staff Writer
In one year, California State University system Chancellor Timothy P. White received a raise that brought his salary from $563,096 up to $619,640. In 2017, California State University approved its first tuition increase since 2011, aimed at increasing tuition revenue by $77.5 million. Tuition has nearly doubled in a decade. Where has the money from 484 million students across CSU’s 23 campuses gone? The California state auditor said: “The CSU Office of the Chancellor has failed to fully disclose financial resources that it holds in outside accounts, and it has not ensured that campuses fully explore options for alternate methods of transportation before investing in expensive parking facilities.” Despite this audit, the 2019-20 budget approved by the Board of Trustees proposed a $544 million increase. CSU has also collected $1.5 billion in surplus, generated partially from tuition. Other CSU administrators have also received raises. Among these, Chico State President Gayle E Hutchinson’s salary increased from $458,519 to
$474,108. In-state, undergraduate tuition for Chico State is $25,994 and will likely grow $270 annually. Suspicion over how tuition is used has brought the chancellor’s office into the spotlight. At Chico State, recent building projects show where some money goes, such as the environmental science building. Despite this, many are not convinced that tuition costs are being used for the student’s interests. “New buildings...I’m not opposed to that-- I’m glad that they’re getting around to that,” said Chico State political science professor, Craig Scarpelli. “I see the capital projects and I get that, but I still think that CSU should focus their money on what benefits students.” “College is expensive. My students have to work around 30 hours to make up for the cost now. As an educator, students need to be able to have the assets to get out of here in 4 years. I wonder if that is the priority.” Scarpelli said. Chico State explained some of the information released in the audit by saying that the money congregated in the surplus cannot be used in offsetting tuition because they are set as a statemandated reserve.
“Strategic reserves may not be used for ongoing expenses such as salaries, and money for employee salary increases would not come from tuition.” said Vice President of Business and Finance, Ann Sherman. There are three uses for strategic reserves: one-time capital projects, CalGrants and Pell Grants, and a hedge against economic uncertainty, Sherman said. Sherman acknowledged the rising prices for students. “There have been student fee changes, which are specifically earmarked for self-support programs such as the Health Center, Athletics, and Student Learning, but those are not tuition increases. These programs do not receive state support and must be completely self-sustaining.” “The audit this summer did not suggest that there was a surplus of money. Rather, it questioned the amount of and use of the CSU’s strategic reserves,” Sherman said.
Kimberly Morales can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.comor@ kimberlymnewson Twitter
Continued From A1 People gather their buckets, trash bags and trash pickers at 9 a.m. and spread around the park in search of debris until 12:30 p.m. “People need ways to feel a part of the community and that they can help,” said the General Manager of BCE, Danielle Baxter. “This event is one way that people can do that. One of the best ways people can do that here in town.” The goal isn’t to simply pick up trash and throw it in a landfill. After volunteers gather litter from across the park, BEC members sort the trash into separate bins by type: recyclables, glass, plastic, aluminum and scrap metal. They then wash the items and try to reuse them as much as possible. Mark Stemen, chair of the BEC, said that whatever is deemed reusable gets donated into the community to places like the Jesus Center. Even used bike tires, scrap metal and other salvageable items get donated to shops around town. People were advised to wear sunscreen, long pants and closed-toe shoes. Volunteers were taken care of with free coffee, bagels and water to
“
“In future years I’d like to explore the possibility of expanding it to Saturday and Sunday and potentially reaching 1,000 people,”
-Danielle Baxter.
keep them well energized for the busy day ahead. “It’s our third year doing this and we go to college in separate places but we are both home for the weekend and it’s fun,” volunteers Elaina and Maya Noble said. “We’re with our family and just cleaning up the park because we grew up here. You get to see different parts of the park, you take it on a little bit slower and really appreciate it.” With the Chico population now over 100,000, that would make 500 volunteers half a percent of the population. Though the numbers were as strong as they have been in the event’s history, BEC wants to do better in the years to come. “In future years I’d like to explore the possibility of expanding it to Saturday and Sunday and potentially reaching 1,000 people,” Baxter said. “We’ll reconvene after this event, see what worked, what went well, see what we need to do better next time. I think that will be a good time to talk about expanding the event. See what that would look like for our community and for the locations for a larger-scale cleanup.” After the cleanup volunteers were treated to a free barbeque hosted by the Sierra Nevada Brewery Co. and burgers were given out by Madison Bear Garden. With Sierra Nevada beer also on tap for of age volunteers. “Incredible amounts of work go into today by a whole team of people,” Baxter said. “Our Board of Directors went out and got sponsorships from folks in the community that want to support a cleanup like this. We have some large corporate sponsors that support us year in and year out: Sierra Nevada Brewery, Klean Kanteen, Chico Bag, the City of Chico is a huge partner for this event. Something this large scale is not possible without that level of community support.” For more information on how volunteer to keep Chico clean, contact the Butte Environmental Council at 530-891-6424 or visit becnet.org.
Ricardo Tovar can be reached at orionmanaging@gmail.com or rtovarg13 on Twitter.
Features
Vol-83 Sept 25, 2019 Issue 5
A4
Taste of Chico celebrates food
THE ORION | JESSIE IMHOFF (Left) Upper Crust happily handed out cupcakes. (Right) Shubert’s employees are handing out ice cream to happy attendees.
Jessie Imhoff Staff Writer
There was much to see walking down the streets of downtown Chico on Sunday. The Downtown Chico Business Association held their annual Taste of Chico, hosting a variety of vendors, including local restaurants, radio stations and live music. The Taste of Chico has been an annual event since 1985. Celebrating its 34th installment, many Chico locals knew to make it to the event. Some Chico locals, like Sara
Haskell, have lived in Chico their whole lives without attending the event. This Sunday was her first time at Taste of Chico. Haskell described it as a fun scene. “People say the way to happiness is through your belly, so everyone here seems to be pretty happy,” Haskell said. Many downtown favorites lined the streets to treat attendees with their food. While Shubert’s was handing out their famous ice cream, Upper Crust Bakery was there with cupcakes ready. Jocelyn Valadez, an Upper Crust
employee, working at the booth, was enjoying her time there. It was her first time working for Taste of Chico, and it was going well. Valadez enjoyed Taste of Chico because it brings Chico together as a community. While there were plenty of local vendors, chain restaurants also set up their booths. Places like Red Lobster, Mod Pizza and Jamba Juice could be seen at the event. Many decided to volunteer their time at the event. Volunteers were placed in multiple booths around downtown at different water
stations to keep attendees hydrated. Chico State’s men’s rugby team were also at the event as volunteers. The team went around collecting trash to keep the event clean. Jack Hempel from the rugby team said volunteering is a good way to give back and get in touch with the community. If you missed Taste of Chico this year, you’ll have to wait until it comes back around next year to get your taste of the event. Jessie Imhoff can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @JessieReports on Twitter
Examining the value of luxury student apartments First generation
students welcomed
Jessie Imhoff Staff Writer
Three luxury apartment complexes sit on Nord Avenue and Walnut Street, proudly advertised as the height of student living. These apartments have different amenities that claim to cater to students’ needs, therefore making them the best living option for students on the market. They also come at a much higher price than other apartment options in Chico, which begs the question: are they really all they claim to be? Is the higher cost for a tailored lifestyle worth it for students? All locations are equipped with what they consider luxury amenities targeted toward students. While some amenities are aimed toward the bookish, grade-focused type, they also have amenities aimed toward the hardpartying, fun-loving demographic. The Post has multiple study rooms, including a study center with Apple and PC products, as well as a poolside lounge and outdoor courtyards with fire pits. They appeal to the more social side of Chico students by holding various events each month, such as pizza parties and karaoke. They also have some educational events for students, such as resume building classes. The Post’s website claims that “students who live in studentoriented housing get better grades.” This claim may be derived from a 2014 study that theoretically found evidence that students who live in dorms are more likely than students who live off-campus to get a G.P.A. of over 1.0. Campus Walk has a computer lab and study room for those students focusing on grades, as well as an outdoor jumbo movie screen for more social affairs. The Urban does not tout any designated study areas, instead focusing on fun amenities like a plunge pool/spa and arcade. Some units even have access to rooftop balconies and private decks. The Urban also has amenities that highlight a luxurious lifestyle. Units come with a 50 inch smart TV, USB charging stations in each room, and a monthly maid service
Angelina Mendez Staff Writer
Campus Walk is one of three “luxury” student apartments on Nord Avenue.
included in the rent. All of their units are two-story townhouses, meaning no one has upstairs or downstairs neighbors. Both The Post and The Urban are pet-friendly, but neither say whether or not students would have to pay more for this. While all these amenities are listed as a positives, they are only beneficial if they are used by students. “I use the free printing and I usually stop in the front office for breakfast,” sophomore Kaitlyn Glavee said. This is her second year living in Campus Walk. “I only use the study room for the free air conditioning in the summer. The workout stuff is pretty terrible so no one ever uses it.” Although the apartments advertise themselves as affordable options for students, they are some of the most expensive apartments available in all of Chico. None of these apartments list their rent prices on their main websites, which is enough to arouse suspicions. Because of that, students have to do a bit more digging to find out how much they will pay before they move in. The cheapest option for the Post is $650 per month for a student. This option is for sharing a room with another person in an apartment of six people. A single room in a six person apartment is about $850 per month. Rent for Campus Walk is around $800 per month for a two bedroom, two bathroom unit. The bigger four bedroom four bathroom unit is $100 more. Rent for The Urban, as listed
THE ORION | JESSIE IMHOFF
on apartmenthomeliving.com, is between $815 and $835. Other student-oriented housing is significantly more affordable. For example, The Timbers is listed at $1,050 for two students, or $525 each. They have similar amenities, such as a computer center and weekly resident activities. The Timbers is also around $400 cheaper than its luxury counterparts. Rent at the luxury apartments also include different utilities, which many apartments in Chico require to be separate. At The Post, rent includes water, sewer, trash pickup, electricity, cable and internet. Campus Walk includes all utilities except electricity, which is $25 per person according to Glavee. The Urban includes internet, trash, and a monthly maid service in their rent, while electricity and gas are billed back to each resident. All of the apartments offer individual leases, so students will not be responsible if their roommate does not pay rent for the month. “My first year one bed spot was not leased out so it remained empty,” Glavee said. Her rent did not increase with one less roommate due to the individual leases. Students looking to live at these luxury apartments have to make the decision of whether these amenities are worth the cost of living. “Overall I’d say my experience has been positive with a few hiccups,” Glavee said. Jessie Imhoff can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @JessieReports on Twitter.
First-generation students were welcomed to campus with a special event last week thanks to the First Generation program. “Being a first-generation student means that I am the first to make it out of my family and have a chance and many new opportunities,” second-year student and psychology major Philip Krusemark said. The event made first-generation students feel more welcome, Krusemark said. “The first-gen student welcome is our first big event,” faculty diversity officer and nutrition professor Michelle Neyman Morris said. Morris said volunteers support these events. “These are all staff and faculty who are outside of their regular job duties and care so much about firstgen students and their success,” Morris said, adding that this is the event’s fourth year. Morris said there will be future events for the first-gen students such as the winter clothing drive, care package giveaway and pizza parties. “We think these things help in many ways,” Morris said. “We also know that beyond academics, there is your living situation, your access to food, your housing, advising, and mentorship as well as building communities so that you have a social support network here on campus of other students who know what you’re going through,” Morris said. Morris’s advice for students is to remember that university life is often about what goes on outside of the classroom. “Take advantage of the fact that there are so many wonderful things to learn about, to experience on campus, and it’s all for you. You belong, you are welcomed, and you deserve to be here. Step outside your comfort zone.” For more events, the Office of Diversity & Inclusion is located in Kendall Hall room 109 and on the Chico State website. Angelina Mendez can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com.
Features A5 Nevada towns invaded by Area 51 Vol-83 Sept 25, 2019 Issue 5
THE ORION | EMILY NERIA (Top) Many people at the Area 51 “raid” just played music and hung out. (Bottom, Left) Invader Q-tip and Invader Stink enjoy Area 51 festivities. (Bottom, Right) Two million people signed up for the fictional Facebook event to “raid Area 51” on September 20th.
Continued From A1 stopped by the festival on their road trip across the U.S. “There’s no reception, which is really sad, cause I wanted to show all my friends Area 51,” Bethany said. “But other than that, it’s quite fun.” Some folks saw the event as a business opportunity. A retired chemistry teacher from Memphis made and sold T-shirts upon his granddaughter’s request. His granddaughter had wanted to go to the Alienstock festival to see a band she liked, but the band apparently pulled out so she did, too. “It was her idea to have the alien on the shirt Naruto running like that.” A trio of graphic designers from Massachusetts
drew a crowd to the back of their van by selling posters and handing out free chicken burritos. They managed to sell out by the end of the night. “I don’t know about you guys, but I came, I conquered and I saw,” said their frontman, Ali. “I swear to god I touched the Area 51 gate.” Fortunately, the event seemed to be a peaceful success. A local property owner commented that most people are just having fun and buying drinks and as long as it stays like that, everything will be fine. Authorities said on Friday there were fewer than ten arrests and that each was only a misdemeanor. When night fell, there was no raiding or storming to be seen. Instead, people crowded around the two different stages and danced to remixes of Star Wars theme songs and Pokémon battle music.
DVDDY, a DJ who headlined the event, said that he hopes they can do this again next year. “This is such an organic event, you know?” He said. “This isn’t like a big business thing. You don’t see these huge sponsors out here. This is all a bunch of people from all across the world.” The first-ever Alienstock and Area 51 “raid” went down without major consequences. It’s not decided if the festival will turn into an annual occurrence, but perhaps this year was the start of an extraterrestrial-themed tradition.
Emily Neria can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com
Karlie Heynneman enlightens Chico’s yoga scene
THE ORION | MELISSA HERRERA (Left) Karlie showed students her perfect form in each pose. (Right) The visuals, in the background, made the whole night spectacular and would change during songs.
Emily Neria Staff Writer
A Wildcat Recreational Center instructor led Chico State students through yoga exercises at a glowing yoga (Gloga) event in the BMU Auditorium on Tuesday night. Gloga took place in a dark room with blacklights where participants were encouraged to decorate themselves with glow-inthe-dark body paint and glow sticks. Karlie Heynneman, a Chico State student and dedicated instructor, teaches at three different local venues - the WREC, Chico Sports Club and a new, infrared-heat yoga place called Hothouse.
“My foundation is growing,” Heynneman said. “I want to keep going with it. It’s actually pretty addicting.” The student has been obsessed with yoga for seven years. She started doing yoga because of a breakdancing injury where she had a back spasm at a dance competition. “I pretty much couldn’t move for a few hours,” Heynneman said. Heynneman’s interest in instructing began at a yoga studio in San Luis Obispo. She loved how the classes made her feel. When she moved back to Chico a few months ago and heard about an instructor training her friends were doing, she decided to go for it.
Heynneman highly recommends Gloga. “It’s fun and it’s beginner-friendly, you don’t have to do yoga to come,” she said. “Yoga is for everyone. There’s always modifications to do so don’t be scared.” To learn more about future Gloga events visit the Chico State event calendar webpage. For information about yoga classes taught at the WREC, check out the WREC schedule online or ask at the front desk. Emily Neria can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com
A+E
Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
A6
Local native culture celebrated
THE ORION | MELISSA JOSEPH (Top) Mastering basket weaving took years for each family member. It took not only artistic talent, but a mathematical thought process to understand where each stitch should lie and how to balance a pattern (Bottom Left) The exhibit showcased handwoven baskets and accessories from four generations of Mountain Maidu Weavers of the Meadows-Baker Family. (Bottom Right) “I never know what the design will be when I start. It just happens… It is the Maidu in me coming through my fingers. - Lilly Baker”
Melissa Joseph Staff Writer
The Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology at Chico State has a new exhibit called “Unbroken Traditions.” The installation serves as a reminder of the violent history between Native Americans and Chico’s colonizers. Chico State sits on land that belonged to the Mechoopda tribe. The campus has acknowledged its transgressive roots and during this exhibit, the museum partnered with the campus tribal liaison as well as other local organizations to broaden the awareness of indigenous injustices.
The exhibit showcased handwoven baskets and accessories from four generations of Mountain Maidu weavers from the MeadowsBaker Family. These handmade baskets symbolize the decades of oppression the Mountain Maidu generations endured. Museum visitors are regaled with the story of Lilly Baker and her ancestors as they read small informational plaques around the installment. The plaques detail how Baker began her life long passion for basket weaving. Lilly’s mother, Daisy Meadows-Baker, learned
how to weave baskets from her mother and passed the tradition down to nine-year-old Lilly. Mastering basket weaving took years for each family member. It involves a combination of artistic talent and mathematical thought processes to understand where each stitch should lie and how to balance a pattern. A wall in the museum reads: “‘I never know what the design will be when I start. It just happens… It is the Maidu in me coming through my fingers.’ - Lilly Baker.” This quote shows that even with the best techniques and practices, the real trick to basket weaving is
having the spirit of her ancestors to guide her inspiration for each piece. Without the endurance of her predecessors, Baker’s craft and culture would be extinct. “Unbroken Traditions” spotlights this facet of Native American history, recognizing the hardship each tribe has had to bear witness and overcome. More information about “Unbroken Traditions” can be found on Chico State’s website. Melissa Joseph can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @Melisstweetz on Twitter.
‘American Horror Story’ is back in classic 80s horror fashion
Danielle Kessler Staff Writer
Spoiler warning: This article contains spoilers for “American Horror Story: 1984.” “American Horror Story” premiered its ninth season “1984” and there is a lot to discuss. In celebration of the first episode and in hopes that this season doesn’t disappoint, I wanted to take this moment to share what I thought, and what I hope is in store for fellow “American Horror Story” fans. First, let’s talk opening credits. I thought it was perfectly cheesy and nostalgic of the ‘80s. Although it was sad to see that some of the show’s iconic actors; Sarah Paulson, Jessica Lange, Evan Peters and Kathy Bates didn’t appear in the credits, I’m hoping that season nine stays afloat without them. The season does, however, include some returning actors, like Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Cody Fern and Leslie Grossman. The first episode, “Camp Redwood” captures the ‘80s horror genre by combining tropes from classic 1980s horror films. As a fan of cheesy horror from the decade, I was really excited to see them portray this. The episode starts when a young group of people, Xavier,
Montana, Ray and Chet ask their new friend Brooke (Emma Roberts) to join them being camp counselors at a summer camp that was previously closed due to a massacre that happened 14 years prior. Now I know what everyone is thinking, yes, this pretty much mirrors the plot of “Friday the 13th” (1980), but as a horror fan I really appreciated the homage to the franchise. “Camp Redwood” also includes several other references of ‘80s slasher flicks. When “Mr. Jingles” the killer of camp Redwood breaks out of a mental institution (a very dated concept) and returns to terrorize the camp, it was a pretty clear reference to Michael Myers’ backstory in the “Halloween” franchise. Along with the illusions to the slasher genre, there was an added historical twist to the episode when the infamous “Night Stalker” Richard Ramirez, played by Zach Villa, made an appearance. Seen breaking into Brooke’s apartment, terrorizing her, and claiming that he would follow her wherever she went, it was a pretty good scare based on real events. Also, as a fellow “American Horror Story” fan, it was exciting to see Ramirez reappear, as we’ve seen glimpses of him in a past season, “Hotel”,
and I’m really excited to see if any connections will be made between the two seasons. As far as a first episode goes, I’m really hoping for the best from this season of AHS. There were lots of little references that I personally
COURTESY BY | FX
loved and that I hope keep going throughout the season. My fingers are crossed that “1984” won’t disappoint. Danielle Kesler can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @reserv0irpups on Twitter.
A+E
Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
B1
Drag Queen Coco’s Birthday Bash
Melissa Joseph
Staff Writer
Performers and party-goers filled the El Rey Theater Friday night to celebrate Coco, a local drag queen’s, birthday. The show, called “Coco Wonderland” started slowly as DJs took the stage to perform their sets. The night quickly revved up as queens took the stage to lip sync and dance their hearts out. The first performer was electric and fierce, donning a black lace leotard and dancing to “On a Roll” by Miley Cyrus. This sensual track set the mood for the rest of the night. Throughout the performance, she strutted across the stage and made sure her bright red heels flashed across the room. When she finished her set, the audience’s enthusiasm heightened in anticipation of who would perform next. The next few drag queens that graced the stage played on the tropes of school girls, divas and other fun, fierce characters. An audience favorite was a performance delivered by a tattooed brunette dressed as a nun, wearing nothing but black lingerie and a headpiece. She twerked her way across the stage and delivered an electric performance. Her ecstatic energy and
expressions kept the crowd entranced, knowing that she was enjoying her performance just as much as everyone else. The last performance of the night was delivered by Coco herself, dancing to Todrick Hall’s “Nails, Hair, Hips, Heels.” Coco was dressed in knee high platforms, a red leotard and black angel wings, that bounced to the beat of the song with every move of her hips. After her passionate performance, Coco’s friends joined her on stage and all of the queens twerked and grinded until a cake was brought out for Coco. The crowd sang “Happy Birthday” as she was handed a bouquet of flowers and finger fed frosting. Overwhelmed with the support she received from friends and fans, Coco hugged and thanked everyone on stage then reassured everyone that the party wasn’t stopping there. The birthday bash carried on throughout the night and reminded everyone of just how prevalent community love and support is in Chico. For more information on Coco and events at the El Rey, flyers can be found on their website. Melissa Joseph can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @melisstweetz on Twitter
PHOTOS BY | MARY VOGEL ILLUSTRATION | JACOB COLLIER
A+E
Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
B2
‘Ad Astra’ is an immersive drama with thematic depth
ILLUSTRATION | JACOB COLLIER
Angel Ortega Staff Writer
“Ad Astra” is a compelling scifi drama with stunning visuals, a cohesive narrative and great performances from the lead actors. Clifford McBride (Tommy Lee Jones) leads a voyage called the “Lima Project” into space in search of intelligent life. However, the ship and its crew disappear and are never heard from again. Three decades later, his son Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) learns that his father may still be alive. This is revealed when it is discovered that the power surges attacking Earth, one of which almost killed Roy, have been traced back to the Lima Project. Now, Roy sets out to the outer rim of the solar system in hopes of finding his father and destroying the technology threatening humanity. On a technical level, “Ad Astra” is a masterpiece. The cinematography and special effects created stunning, visually compelling scenes. On top of that, the set design and color schemes complimented the cinematography in creating aesthetically pleasing visuals.
The sound editing and mixing delivered audio so pristine that there were moments where I truly felt immersed in the film, as if I was on the voyage with Roy. Because of how much effort and attention went into the production of the technical elements of this film, “Ad Astra” must be seen in theaters to get the full visual and audio experience. As far as performances go, Jones portrays Clifford with an intense complexity. Jones’ character’s obsession with his mission and subsequent descent into madness is the primary focus in the film even though he does not have as much screen time as Pitt. In the short amount of time that we do see Jones, it’s clear that his ability to deliver a compelling performance is as powerful as ever. Pitt’s performance as Roy was incredible. Though I wouldn’t say this performance is the best out of his considerable filmography, it is an exceptional one nonetheless. While I enjoyed his performance in Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood,” Pitt’s performance
in “Ad Astra” is absolutely a step up both in dialogue and physical presence. I think it also helps that “Ad Astra” is a film with superior writing and a thorough, cohesive narrative. Pitt’s ability to capture the emotions of a man so used to focusing solely on his work, suddenly confronted by a nolonger-absent father emphasizes Pitt’s range as an actor. SPOILERS The most striking thing about this film is how much it reminded me of the Joseph Conrad novel, “Heart of Darkness.” There are uncanny parallels between the two. Both “Ad Astra” and “Heart of Darkness” are narrated stories about a man going on a voyage deep into remote areas in search of another man who has gone “mad.” Also, both the novel and film have overarching themes of humanity, mortality and righteousness. Roy, after confronting his father, questions whether focusing all of his energy into his career as an
astronaut is a good thing or if he is heading down a similar road as his father. I’m not saying using the plot of “Heart of Darkness’” to create a movie is a bad thing. In fact; I think “Heart of Darkness” is a perfect source of cinematic inspiration, especially when done as masterfully as in “Ad Astra.” END SPOILER With its depth, pristine performances and technical execution, “Ad Astra” is an exceptional film that has quickly become one of my favorites of the year. There are a plethora of thematic elements of this film that, I think, require multiple viewings to fully grasp. This is a good thing in my opinion. “Ad Astra” is a must-see. I look forward to watching it again. Rating: 4/5 stars Angel Ortega can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @AngelOrtegaNews on Twitter.
Chico State student gallery displays unique interior architecture
THE ORION | HANA BEATY (left) Amazing display of a wooden table and chair at the art exhibit. (top right) This was an outdoor furniture design that excited the crowd. (bottom right) Local art fanatics came to the BSO Gallery to witness all the extraordinary art pieces.
Danielle Kessler Staff Writer
Interior architecture students got a chance to showcase their work on Thursday in the BSO gallery of Ayres hall. Focusing on student-made furniture designs, the gallery emphasized the hard work and talent that these majors bring to the table. The gallery featured models of furniture designs created by students in the interior architecture department, each focusing on different thematic elements. Graduating senior Tymberline Bealer explained how her piece was created and what the inspiration was for it. “The theme of my tiny house was that it was on the edge of a waterfall, so I was making a chair that would resemble a waterfall,” Bealer said. She described how each individual piece of wood had to be glued together and sanded, to keep
the surface from sliding and make the finished chair look polished. Bealer also explained how choosing interior architecture as a major was easy after she took an introduction class. “I saw interior architecture, and I was super interested in that my whole life,” Bealer said, adding that after she took the introductory class, she knew design was something she wanted to pursue as a career. Rouben Mohiuddin, professor of interior architecture, also shared how his students’ work reflects the practices of the major. “Our program is separated into a series of different studios,” Mohiuuddin said.“Each studio increases the level of technical know-how and a level of intensity.” Mohiuddin described how students in interior architecture learn to work with simple materials
like plywood, and turn them into elegant furnishings. A big part of the classes he teaches is “creative thinking, being artistic, and learning how to work with materials.” Throughout the gallery, visitors could see, up close, the values interior architecture students learn during their time in the program. Different furniture pieces, like chairs and lamps of all sizes, upon inspection revealed perfected details meticulously crafted over the course of the semester by these creative students. Events such as this gallery provide valuable spaces for interior architecture students to present and feel proud of everything they’ve accomplished in their journey within the program. Danielle Kesler can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @reserv0irpups on Twitter.
Sports
Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
B3
Paradise high school football bounces back Matthew Ferreira Staff Writer
“Resilience” is defined as “the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.” The Paradise High School football team seems to be the embodiment of that word. After losing most of their town during the Camp Fire, the Paradise Bobcats have banded together as a family and community to start their season, and have dominated their opponents along the way with a record of 4-0. Head Coach Rick Prinz attributes part of the team’s success to their collective mentality. “We’re just trying to stay focused on one game at a time, it’s a lot of effort for the kids to get here everyday, but we have a long season ahead of us and need to stay focused,” Prinz said. The team has outscored their opponents by a total of 201-40 through their first five games, including two shutout wins against Williams High School and Sparks High School from Nevada. “Our first game was incredible, and then we have had two home games since then that have been just amazing crowds, and the kids have been performing well but we know we still have a job to do,” Prinz said. The wins have Paradise High School feeling confident, but this season still has a long way to go. “I think we’re happy that were 4-0 so far but I don’t think were satisfied yet, not until we have a trophy in our hands,” said Senior right tackle Kasten Ortiz. Paradise nearly accomplished that goal last season and had an excellent run, finishing with an 8-3 record while being 5-1 in league. Their finish earned the team a spot in playoffs, but due to complications from the Camp Fire, the game was ruled a no-contest in Red Bluff High School’s favor after Paradise made the hard decision to concede. Despite all of the negatives that this team has been through, the Bobcats have been doing their best to stay strong and united as a family. “Even since before the fire, football has always been a huge part of this town,” Ortiz said. “So this is an opportunity for us to put the community on our shoulders, which is something that we take a lot of responsibility in and that we’re very proud of.” The community and the team have provided eachother mutual support this season. In the first home game of the season, nearly 5,000 supporters came out to cheer on the team in a 42-0 blowout win in the Bobcat’s favor. “My favorite part of playing for Paradise is that even before the fire, this town has always supported us and rallied around us,” said Senior left guard Elijah Gould. After week one’s blowout win, the Bobcats haven’t slowed down. They’ve won their last three games, thanks in part to the team’s unique brotherhood and motivation to bounce back from adversity. “If I could describe this team in one word, it would have to be resilient,” Prinz said. The team’s resilience and drive to win for their school and town has been evident this year on and off of the field. “These kids really give a lot of effort to get out here everyday and come to practice and then are giving even more effort when they get here,” Prinz said. The Bobcats take great pride in the role they play in their school’s community, on and off the field. “On campus, I feel like we stick out and are the leaders of the campus which holds us to a bigger standard which we take as a good thing,” Gould said. When all of the hard work and support that the team and community of Paradise comes together, something truly unique happens. That’s what defines Paradise High School football.
THE ORION LUCERO DEL RAYO-NAVA
(Top) Running back faced defensive linemen in a 3-on-1 tackle. (Middle) Paradise running back getting blocked off by defensive player. (Bottom) Paradise High snap the ball during practice.
Matthew Ferriera can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @MattFerreira__ on Twitter
Paradise Football Schedule Date
Week 4 Week 5 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9
9/27 10/4 10/18 10/25 11/1
Opponent
Shasta Oroville Willows Paradise (Homecoming) Red Bluff Red Bluff Enterprise Paradise
Location
Shasta Oroville Paradise (Homecoming) Red Bluff Paradise
Level
JV/V Charter JV/V Bus JV/V JV/V Bus JV/V
Time
5:30/7:30 5:30/7:30 5:30/7:30 5:30/7:30 5:30/7:30
Upcoming Games Women’s Soccer
Sports
Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
B4
The meaning of being an athletic trainer
Chico State
V
S
CSU, Dominguez Hills
Head athletic trainer Scott Barker working with an athlete alongside his assistant, Halie Hall.
When: Sept. 27 Time: 4:30 p.m. Where: Carson
Upcoming Games Volleyball Team
Chico State
V
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CSU, East Bay
Karina Cope Staff Writer
Behind the scenes in the world of athletics, there is a group of hard working, dedicated individuals that keep the athletes we admire in top physical health. They are the athletic trainers and they serve as the backbone of any athletic department. Chico State is lucky enough to have Scott Barker as their head athletic trainer. Barker has been working with Chico State athletes since 1990. Barker developed an interest in athletic training when he was in high school. He went to the athletic training office at University of Arizona and spoke with their head athletic trainer at the time. Barker remembers that when he told the trainer that he wanted to be an athletic trainer “He just stopped writing, and he looked up at me, and he kind of looked me up and down, and he said, ‘Do you even know what the heck an athletic trainer is?’ And I said, ‘No, but I think I want to be one.’” To this day, Barker says he doesn’t know why Lee gave him a chance, but Lee offered Barker the opportunity to water the grass for the entire spring football season. After the season was
over, Barker returned for the fall, whereupon Lee took Barker under his wing and exposed Barker to the field of athletic training. As Chico State’s head athletic trainer, Barker’s job is to help evaluate athletes, their injuries and any emotional problems that may arise as a result of their physical issues. Barker helps individuals deal with their injuries and puts them on a recovery plan, whether their estimated recovery time is two months or two years. “The most important part for me is (that) every single day, someone’s going to walk through that door that I didn’t plan on when I showed up to work today, and some un-anticipated event is going to happen today,” Barker said. Most athletic training revolves around the treatment process. The process is both physical and mental, as players are deprived of the sport they love while recovering. “As athletic trainers, we get to work with our student athletes at the whole range; from their highest high to their lowest low and that injury that happens takes them away from their passion and what they love to do,” Barker said. “We get to help them through that process. Far and away,
THE ORION | KARINA COPE
the best, most satisfying thing as an athletic trainer is when you get all the way through that, we get to watch them play again the sport they’re passionate about and know that we helped them through this whole cycle.” Barker and his newly hired assistant Halie Hall travel across the country for Chico State road games. “Something severe could happen at any moment,” Barker said. “Then it’s our game day where we must be on point to do the right thing at the right time.” Both Barker and Hall are former athletes who have always had a passion for sports. When their athletic careers came to an end, they knew they wanted to stay involved in sports. Athletic training provides the perfect combination of medicine applied to sport. “Athletic training is about the medicine, it’s just that our patients are athletes,” Barker said. With stellar athletic trainers like Barker and Hall, our Wildcat athletes are undoubtedly in good hands.
Karina Cope can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @KarinaICopeon Twitter
Tai Chi: It’s Great For Your Health When: Sept. 27 Time: 7:00 p.m. Where: Hayward
Stat’Cat
Men’s Soccer THE ORION | MELISSA HERRERA
2019 Season Record
Overall: 4-0 Streak: W-4 Home: 3-0
Away: 1-0 Notable Athletes Garrett Hogbin 4•G 2•A 10•PTS 7•SH 6•SOG
Jacob Chong 2•G 1•A 5•PTS 9•SH 5•SOG
Matt Hafizi 2•G 0•A 4•PTS 6•SH 4•SOG
(Top) Grandmaster Azad is the Instructor for the Tai Chi class offered at Chico State. (Bottom) Students move their arms and bodies during class.
Matthew Ferreira Staff Writer
The stress and anxiety of adulting can take a serious toll on a person’s mind and body. Grandmaster Azad, a Chico State instructor and owner of Azad’s Martial Arts Center, helps students practice self care by using the art of Tai Chi Chuan. Azad has a tenth degree black belt in Tai Chi Chuan and Hapkido and has been teaching Tai Chi at Chico State for over 10 years. “Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise that really helps you balance yourself mentally, physically and spiritually,” Azad said. When doing Tai Chi, the practitioner performs slow and controlled movements to achieve balance. While Tai Chi is used by most as a relaxing activity, the skills learned can also help with self defense, wrestling and handto-hand combat. “The founder of Tai Chi aimed to create an internal system of martial arts that was fluid, soft and gentle, but yet at the same time useful as an absolutely
vicious method of self defense,” Azad said. Along with learning self-defense, Azad’s students also gain mental and physical benefits from practicing Tai Chi. “When practicing Tai Chi, you get to really understand what’s going on inside of you; in your mind, in your spirit and your emotions; to give you an immense depth in understanding what your part is in this world,” Azad said. On top of the mental benefits, Tai Chi works wonders for your body and physical wellness. “Tai Chi can help you get in great shape,” he said. “It’s is a no-contact, very low-impact, internal system of martial arts that is designed to help boost your physical and mental health regardless of age and/or ability.” Azad’s class enables students to work toward personal health and wellness goals. “It helps with breathing and makes you feel really centered and calm,”
student David McCarr said. “It feels like a whole body healing process.” “It also helps with anxiety and stress. For example: if I feel anxious at night, I can just practice my Tai Chi and find some relief.” The class has helped McCarr and many like him who have taken the class for their personal well-being. “I love what students get out of my class,” Azad said. “My entire purpose of teaching at Chico State is for students to benefit.” Matthew Ferreira can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @MattFerreira__on Twitter
Opinion B5 O-Face: Reflections on virginity Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
DIGITAL ART | JACOB COLLIER
Rayanne Painter
Arts and Entertainment Editor It’s a sticky subject, virginity. There’s only one way this is supposed to happen, right? A man lays a woman down in missionary, strokes a few times, blows his load and suddenly your virginity vanishes like the ghost you thought you saw slinking down the hallway at 3 a.m. Then, much like the ghost, you’re left to wonder if what just happened was reality. We, as a society, are preconditioned to believe that this is the only normal way to have sex for the first time. And, for a time in our lives that valued so highly, these are exceedingly low expectations. As a woman, I was incessantly taught that the first time was supposed to
hurt and it was expected that I would bleed. Contrary to this belief, if you bleed during sex it typically means that something was not done right. Yes, even if it’s your first time. This isn’t a case of the hymen being punctured. Most people with vaginas who have used a tampon or ridden a bicycle have torn it long before their first sexual encounter. Hymens are not indicators of sexual activity. In spite of the scientific fact that the body, or a person, doesn’t necessarily change due to sex, female virgins are extremely sexualized. You’re called a slut if you lose it too young and are considered to have more value by men with it in tact. When I was 18, an older man on the internet offered me money in exchange for my virginity (never mind I wasn’t a virgin at a time)
because he fetishized it so much. What form does virginity really come in? What constitutes losing it? Did I lose it when I was 6, curiously laying naked under my bed with a friend? Was it my first time doing oral as a teenager? No? Then maybe it happened while I was first exploring my sexuality with women. Or was it the man who begged me until I gave in? That man who wanted to buy my virginity did not fantasize about my virginity. Not really. He wanted my penis-into-vagina virginity. The only virginity that counts to so much of society. We are conditioned to believe that virginity is one thing only: Heterosexual. No other sexual experience matters if a penis hasn’t yet taken the most valuable thing about
you. Sexual first-timers: your experience does not require labels or even expectations. The concept of virginity is fluid. It is up to you to write your own narrative of sexual maturity. And if you decide sexuality isn’t even something you want or need, that’s valid, too. Do what feels right to you. It’s your prerogative. Our society’s definitions of sex are not rooted in inclusive, scientific reality. With luck, education and effort, maybe we can eventually untangle all of the unfair stigmas we’ve plagued ourselves with.
Rayanne Painter can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @rayphenomenon on Twitter
Paper straws are dumb and here’s why.
Alex Coba
Features Editor Starting school at Chico State marked my initiation to the world of paper straws. I remember the first time I encountered this monstrosity like it was yesterday: It was a hot summer day during the first week of school. I had just come out of my first journalism class here at Chico State. I was thirsty--it was 90-degrees out and it had been a long, intense class. I walked into a campus store and, after buying my beverage, went to grab a straw only to realize it was made of flimsy paper. I felt shocked and betrayed. I even asked the cashier if he had any plastic straws, already knowing the answer was no. But then, a plot twist. The cashier let me know that they
had metal straws. Metal straws. I have never felt more angry and confused. The thought alone of cold, metallic metal clanking against my teeth sent shivers down my spine. I later found out that this was something that Associated Students at Chico State had enacted into policy. The official statement reads: “Starting April 23, 2018, Chico State became the first CSU campus to eliminate plastic straws. Steel straw kits were also made available to purchase.” I’m all about saving the planet, but here’s my issue with papers straws: They’re useless. Paper is not known for its durability around water. These straws get soggy within minutes, giving you a sense of urgency when you are trying to enjoy your drink. You can’t just sit for a study session and hydrate because within minutes, that straw will turn to mush. Then, you’ll have to drink it with the top off, and
we all know that’s a dangerous game to play if you’re clumsy. Most arguments for paper straws are that they are eco-friendly and they also #savetheturtles (the catchphrase of every eco-hipster and VSCO girl alike). I hate to break it to you, but paper straws are harmful to the environment as well. The word “biodegradable” is used a lot when talking about paper straws. According to biomasspackaging. com, in order to be considered “biodegradable,” the carbon material of a product has to break down by 60% after 180 days. In real-world situations, the paper could last a lot longer than 180 days. Well paper straws are recyclable, right? Wrong. According to Netwaste. org, most recycling facilities will not accept food-contaminated paper products. Since that paper straw has been sitting in your soda for the past 15 minutes, it’s been absorbing liquids.
DIGITAL ART | JACOB COLLIER
Let’s be real; most people throw the straw in the trash along with the cup. So what’s the solution? While I also hate metal straws, even I can’t deny they offer a more permanent solution to the straw problem. The average person isn’t going to carry around a metal straw everywhere they go. Starbucks has found a compromise. They have eliminated plastic straws by implementing new lids that are essentially sippy cup lids. Starbucks plans to eliminate the use of plastic straws by 2020. Does this solve plastic waste? No, of course not. I believe we’ll always have a need for plastic products; we’re too dependent on it. But hey, at least they’re not made out of paper. Alex Coba can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @ThatOneGuyCoba on Twitter
Ameer Vann makes solo album after scandal Angel Ortega Staff Writer
Ameer Vann, former member of pop collective Brockhampton, has returned to the music industry following his sudden departure from the group over a year ago. Vann was one of the founding members of Brockhampton and played a huge role in the production and release of their first three albums. In May 2018, many women previously involved with Vann, either romantically or sexually, went to Twitter and accused Vann of sexual misconduct. Vann apologized to his accusers on Twitter and the group was adamant in their support for Vann. However, on May 27, 2018, Brockhampton announced via Twitter that Ameer was no longer in the group, saying, among
other things: “We were lied to, and we’re sorry for not speaking up sooner.” Since Vann’s departure from Brockhampton, many fans have taken to Twitter and other online forums voicing their opinions about the matter from both sides. Brockhampton themselves were also torn by the situation, causing them to cancel the remainder of their tour dates and scrapping any progress made on their upcoming album. As a Brockhampton fan myself who has been following the boys since the days of their second album “Saturation II,” I had no idea what to make of the scandal at the time. I wanted to support Vann because it was clear in his lyrics that he was trying to overcome his inner-demons and redeem himself from his wrong-doings. At the same time, I understand and support Brockhampton’s decision to
remove Vann from the collective. They are a group that embraces progressive ideas, such as gender inclusivity and tackling toxic masculinity. Keeping someone like Vann in the group would contradict those foundational ideals. To this day, the situation with Vann causes me inner conflict. I support the women that came forward against Vann. But the fact that other artists, like Chris Brown and Drake, can continue to have successful careers in spite of comparable allegations infuriates me to my core. It’s almost as if people support the #MeToo movement when it’s convenient to them, but back out quickly when it starts catching up to their favorite icons. But I digress, with Vann releasing a new EP (“Emmanuel”) on September 18, it has caused me to reflect on the situation once again. I never expected
Vann to come back to music, let alone return to social media. This new EP was quite the surprise. The way I see it, while I think his actions were wrong and he deserved to be kicked out of Brockhampton, I think Vann still deserves the right to continue a career in music. He no longer has the support of a major label. If he releases music on his own dime and accord, so be it. Furthermore, if Brockhampton can openly criticize Vann in their music following his departure, Vann should at least be able to respond to them. I will follow Vann’s newfound solo career and I’m interested in what he has to say well over a year after his departure. Angel Ortega can be reached at orionmanagingeditor@gmail.com or @AngelOrtegaNews on Twitter
Calendar B6 Sept. -Oct Vol-83 Sept. 25, 2019 Issue 5
Wed. 25 • Tue. 1
25 Business Career Fair
10 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Bell Memorial Union Auditorium The Business Career Fair is open to students and alumni from all majors seeking businessrelated career positions and internships.
28
Habitat For Humanity 7:45 a.m.–2:30 p.m., The Boys and Girls Club 856 E. 20th St. Chico, Ca Partner with Habitat for Humanity to build and improve places to call home in Butte County.
1
International Welcome Reception
3 p.m.–5:00 pm, Colusa Hall - 100A All faculty, staff, and students are invited to honor our anew international students, . visiting scholars, faculty, and staff
Champagne Brunch & DIY Bloody Mary Bar
Every Saturday & Sunday 9 AM - 2 PM