theorion.com
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Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
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Vol. 80, Issue 2 |
print and online content free |
INSIDE Vol. 82, Issue 2 CONTACT | EDITORIAL Phone: 530.898.5627 Email: editorinchief@theorion.com
Managing Editor Natalie Hanson News Editors Josh Cozine Brian Luong Opinion Editor Rachael Bayuk Sports Editor Ricardo Tovar A+E Editor Alex Coba Visuals Editor Christian Solis Copy Editors Salma Reyes Christina Cahill Sam Rios
Spring baseball is setting high goals for the season. Read more on page 8.
MATHEW BOEW—THE ORION
PAGE 12
PAGE 6
CONTACT | BUSINESS Phone: 530.898.6919 Email: orionadvertisingmanager@gmail.com Website Fax www.theorion.com
Business Manager Brooke Martin
530.898.4799
Branding Coordinator Audree Hernandez
Social Media / PR Jacqueline Morales Ramirez
JOSH COZINE - THE ORION
Wildcats basketball springs into action on page 6.
PAGE 13
MELISSA HERRARA - THE ORION
A Santa Cruz artist’s 3-D exhibit got spotlighted on Saturday.
PAGE 15
CORRECTIONS
PHOTO COURTESY OF JANNA WEISS
“Kingdom Hearts” returns after 14 years.
Adviser Diego Aparicio
RACHAEL BAYUK - THE ORION
What do singles need to know about Chico nightlife? Check out our guide.
3 |BLOTTER / EDITORIAL Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL
Politics may be messy cesspools but they can’t be ignored
Trump or the US Government’s single-minded incompetence in solving today’s issues. You may be thinking “does this really matter to me－all this awful stuff－as an individual?” Would it be surprising if I told you that ignoring the situation entirely is exactly what is contributing to this whole mess in the first place? That, given everything, politics are impossible to avoid in general discussion. It’s halfwitted to not pursue the knowledge necessary to participate. “But politics don’t affect me!” you might hear people say. That’s not the point. If politics don’t directly affect you, why should you care about what policies are being passed? While isn’t it selfish to put your individuality above letting political issues affect you, these decisions are nonetheless important to know about. For instance, the government shutdown has caused a lot of rage in people who work for the government but in my general social groups, I have barely heard a word about it other
knowing about current situations are two very different things. It isn’t blissful ignorance, but given how popular the political atmosphere is as a conversation topic, choosing to stay out of it is foolish. The knowledge itself is inherently useful to have. As a side note, I have met many people who didn’t believe their vote actually counted. It would appear that their apathy (the belief that their vote is a drop in the bucket) is causing them to be more ignorant in turn. Of course, as of the 2016 election, the election of Trump, the rise of the term “fake news” and the role of social media in shaping the political climate, it would seem that the ignorance of the past decade is on display. Those of us who are younger people are now waking up to the idea that politics are ugly affairs, but we must participate in the process of voting and demonstrating for what we believe in.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Reed McCoy can be reached at opinioneditor@gmail.com or @ReedMcCoy6 on Twitter.
The police blotter is a selection of information cited directly from the Chico Police Department and the University Police Department. w Call Type: Disturbance Wednesday, Jan. 23, 3:19 p.m., Aymer Jay Hamilton Hall, Arcadian Avenue. Reporting party stated that a woman in a pink sweater beat her up two weeks ago and is now waiting in the area to fight her. All parties were counseled and agreed to leave each other alone. Call Type: Elevator Malfunction Wednesday, Jan. 23, 5:14 p.m., Meriam Library Reported elevator malfunction on floor three. Caller reported that he was trapped inside. Electrician came and serviced the elevator to get the caller out and fix the problem.
Chico Police
than “Oh, that happened.” This isn’t being ignorant per se, but acknowledging and
University Police
These days it is nearly impossible to watch the news without hearing a mention of President
Call Type: Suspicious Person Thursday, Jan. 24, 7:50 p.m., Bell Memorial Union An adult male with red scarf covering half of his face came up to the reporting party at the ATM asking the reporting party to look at his watch and for money. The suspect was last seen walking through the campus. No further problems reported. Call Type: Suspicious Person Saturday Jan. 26, 12:16 p.m., Parking structure on Cherry Street. An older woman in a black leather jacket took an item from the back of someone’s truck. She then went to sit on a motorcycle outside of the Student Services Center. The suspect was last seen going into the SSC.
@theorion_news, @theorion_arts, @theorion_sports
Call Type: Brandish Monday, Jan. 28, 5:11 a.m., West 8th Street and Walnut Street A 24-year-old male was driving and pulled up beside the subject who had stopped walking in the middle of the street. The two men stared at each other while the subject that was in the middle of the street pulled out a firearm. At this point the driver sped away. Subjects who had been in the area say they didn’t see or hear anything. Driver now says he is unsure if the subject had a gun. Call Type: Indecent Exposure Monday Jan. 28 12:44 p.m., 110 West 11th St. Students came in to class and an older, male subject was exposing himself to them. The suspect seemed to be urinating and his pants were pulled almost all the way down. There were kids on the soccer field where the subject was still visible. Subject was seen walking away and no other behavior was reported. Call Type: Assault Tuesday, Jan. 29, 9:13 a.m., 2500 Esplanade A male and female were getting physical in a Carl’s Jr. parking lot. The male was threatening the staff inside the Carl’s Jr. as well. Another male tried to separate the arguing couple, but then started yelling at them from across the street. All parties were separated and an arrest was made.
@theorion
TheOrion75
4 |NEWS
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
HOMELESSNESS
Red Cross shelter evacuation slows, as protests stall Julian Mendoza and Josh Cozine Staff Writer and News Editor
C
ars and trailers leaving the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds slowed towards the end of the day Thursday, the day slated as a soft deadline for emptying the grounds, as numbers of those staying at the shelter continued to reach lower numbers. According to Stephen Walsh, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross at the shelter, the numbers as 10 p.m. the night before were down into double-digits with only around 50 people staying in the shelters. A larger number, about 140, remained in parking lots at the fairgrounds in trailers and RVs. “No one is getting kicked out,” Walsh said, reiterating the speaking point echoed to The Orion by Red Cross spokespeople and volunteers over the past week. Even though the California Office of Emergency Services has renewed the lease of the fairgrounds for shelter use until March 15, that is just a contingency plan. The hope is to find everyone currently staying at the shelter stable, if not temporary, housing.
No one is getting kicked out. Stephen Walsh, Spokesperson for the American Red Cross When asked about how long he expects the Red Cross will remain Walsh said, “I can’t say for sure, but I think a few more weeks.”
According to Walsh the family dormitory at the shelter has been completely emptied out, with everyone who stayed there having a housing plan. The California Homeless Union held a picket line and rally in front of the Butte County Office on Memorial Way on the same day. There were only a few people in attendance; it had fewer participants than their first protest on Monday. Bryan Lee Brown, president of the California Homeless Union, explained the situation as wanting a demand letter to be served that day. “What we hope to accomplish is that they acknowledge what we are asking,” Brown said. “And what we are asking is not anything I don’t think they should adhere to.” In a handout provided at the event, there is a filing complaint of the following:
1. Disclosure of city owned property that can be used as shelter. 2. A moratorium on enforcement on all anti-camping laws. 3. Public hearings and full accounting of the millions in donations. 4. Re-opening the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds. “We want it in a humane manner, we want everybody to be on board with the same thing,” Brown said. “If you put your shoe
TRENT TAYLOR—THE ORION
California Homeless Union Members show their support by holding up signs on Memorial Way Thursday afternoon. on the other foot, you just gotta really realize that you can’t be just a point to where it’s done. It’s a catastrophe. so if it’s done well, then that means it’s complete, well we feel it ain’t complete - not when you have people still left in there.” The California Homeless Union entered the Butte County Building where they met with Tami Ritter, the Butte County District 3 Supervisor.
Julian Mendoza and Josh Cozine can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or @julianMTheOrion and @joshcozine on Twitter.
CHRISTIAN SOLIS—THE ORION
One of the last dormitories open as the American Red Cross consolidates housing on the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds.
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
EDUCATION
Students for Quality Education hosts its first meeting Nate Rettinger Staff Writer
• •
The Students for Quality Education hosted an open house and their first meeting of the year this week, giving students the opportunity to check the club out. About 20 people came to Thursday’s event to discuss key issues and meet the club members while socializing over food. About half of that number attended the meeting on the next day. The meeting went over the goals the club has for the upcoming semester. Its goals include: • Opening black resource centers on every CSU campus
demilitarization of campus police an increase in campus counselors of color
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a 5 percent decrease in tuition instead of the presidents receiving a 3 percent increase in pay The club isn’t just about accountability for the mismanagement of funds. Alejandro Alfaro Ramirez, an intern for the club, spoke on his beliefs of what the club stands for. “Quality education doesn’t just mean cheap college,” Ramirez said. “It’s also about making the campus a safe space for anyone to join.” Nate Rettinger can be reached at newseditor@theorion.com or @theorion_news on Twitter
BRIAN LUONG—THE ORION
SQE is a CSU-wide organization that focuses on better quality for education.
NEWS |5
Feb. 6, 2019 Wednesday Feb.Wednesday 6, 2019 6 |SPORTS12 |ARTS
RECAP
Wildcats lose overtime thriller to Humboldt State Matthew Ferreira Staff Writer
T
he Chico State Wildcats women’s basketball team lost a very close game in overtime Saturday night to Humboldt State. The Wildcats were a little slow offensively out of the gate and Humboldt took advantage of that, resulting in a 72-76 loss at Acker Gymnasium. Their junior guard Madeline Hatch was on fire from the perimeter and put up 17 first-half points. Hatch put up those points almost exclusively with the three ball, as she hit five shots from downtown in the first half. The Wildcats went on a decent run to end the half, fueled by a few clutch shots from sophomore guard Shay Stark and went into the break down by just four. After the Wildcats and coach Brian Fogel made a few halftime adjustments, the team turned it up on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Sophomore guard Vanessa Holland played a key role on defense as she was able to shut down Humboldt’s Madeline Hatch and helped keep her to zero points in the second half. The Wildcats’ defensive play led to things opening up on offense as senior forwards McKena Barker and Natalie Valenzuela applied pressure to the paint and created scoring opportunities for themselves and others. The tandem combined for 23 points, many of which came in the second half. Junior guard Madison Wong also got involved offensively as she made five three-point shots and provided the Wildcats with big baskets in big moments.
Madison Wong looking for a teammate to pass to in the game against Humboldt State Saturday.
Both teams had opportunities late to win the game but the three-point attempts from Wong and Hatch were blanketed by good defense. Humboldt state got out to a fast start in overtime and was able to get a little bit of separation. The Wildcats brought their lead down to just two with around 30 seconds left but gave up a foul that led to two makes from the line for Humboldt. After the game, McKena Barker said that their turnovers and Humboldt’s ability to capitalize
MATTHEW BOE—THE ORION
late on free throw opportunities was the x-factor in tonight’s loss. The four point deficit proved insurmountable and the Wildcats fell to 12-6 on the season. The Wildcats look to take their game to Turlock Saturday, Feb. 4, as they face off against Stanislaus State. That game tips off at 5:30 p.m. and can be watched on the Chico State women’s basketball schedule. Matthew Ferreira can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or @MattFerreira_ on Twitter
MATTHEW BOE—THE ORION
Natalie Valenzuela shoots the layup against Humboldt State.
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
Wednesday Feb. 6,|7 2019 SPORTS ART
RECAP
Wildcats send Lucky Loggers packing Lucero Del Rayo Staff Writer
Chico State faced unfair calls and Humboldt State’s aggressive defense Saturday night at Acker Gymnasium. It showed the team true capabilities as the Wildcats gutted out a 67-65 win over the Lucky Loggers. “Everyone stepped up. Everyone played well. It wasn’t a one person shine,” Malik Duffy said. After coming out victorious against California State University, San Marcos the previous weekend and ending their own losing streak, the Wildcats looked to keep the momentum going. The rivalry between both teams was evident as the score was tied nine times throughout the game. But that did not stop Chico State, as they dropped 12 three-pointers collectively. “We just have to be confident and shoot as many as we would if we were making them,” Spencer LaShells said. In the first half, both teams were on each other’s tails, not allowing either to have a lead larger than five points. Humboldt played aggressively, but Chico State refused to be pushed around and retaliated the intensity. It wasn’t until the middle of the first half that the officials started intervening and making calls that further upset the Wildcats. As the Wildcats fought their frustration, the Lucky Loggers used this to their advantage and were up three points at the end of the first half. “This whole week was a
tough week for practice and we emphasized defense and rebounding,” Duffy said. In the second half, Chico State was hungry for the lead and it showed as Isaiah Brooks started the half off with a three-pointer to tie the game. But Humboldt was out to prove themselves and followed with a three-pointer to reclaim the lead. This ignited the Wildcats as Duffy and Kevin Warren came back, scoring a three-pointer each within the same minute. Chico State was on a roll and created an eight-point lead, the largest of the night. The Lucky Loggers struggled to come back, gaining momentum until the last two minutes of the half. Slowly, Humboldt closed the gap to three points. Warren extended the Wildcat’s’ lead with a successful three-pointer in the last minute. The intensity in the last minute
As both teams were at each other’s throats, the Wildcats came out victorious through theirdominating defense and confident shots.
was felt throughout the crowd and a few bad calls prolonged the game. Humboldt gained possession and scored four more points, putting Chico State in a tough position. As both teams were at each other’s throats, the Wildcats came out victorious through their dominating defense and confident shots. “Defense definitely made sure
Chico State attempted a layup against Humboldt State.
MATTHEW BOE—THE ORION
that we won the game tonight,” LaShells said. The Wildcats look to keep their two-game win streak alive next week as they take on Stanislaus State in Turlock. That game tips off at 7:30 p.m. and is viewable on the Wildcat Schedule. Lucero Del Rayo-Nava can be reached at sportseditor@theorion.com or @del_rayo98on Twitter
MATTHEW BOE—THE ORION
Kevin Warren dribbles the ball in against Humboldt State Saturday.
8 |COVER STORY WednesdayFeb. 6, 2019
Wildcats baseball springs into the new season
Brandon Downs Staff Writer
T
he Wildcats baseball team looked to get back into the swing of things after they headed down for a series against Fresno Pacific to start the 2019 campaign. Aside from a rain delay that canceled their Saturday game, the Wildcats could not have asked for a better start to the season taking two out of two from the Sunbirds on Friday. The Wildcats look to continue the momentum from this great start throughout the 2019 season as they hope to build off their 2018 success. The team had a good 2018 season as they won 31 games and got third place in the West Region. The team also reached the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) championship but did not come out with the championship win. Moving into the 2019 season, the team has set a goal to be the top seed in the West Region. If they are the top seed the Wildcats will able to host the Super Regionals. Due to graduation weekend being May 16-20 for Chico State, hotels in the City of Chico reach maximum capacity. This has prevented the Wildcats from being able to host the Regionals at Kettleton Stadium. “This year they changed it, so there are regionals and super regionals,” Grant Larson, starting pitcher for Chico State said. “So our top main goal for the team right now is to get that number one seed so we can host the Super Regional.” This year there will be a Regionals tournament and the winners will move on to Super Regionals. If Chico State is able to get the top seed and advance to Super Regionals, the Wildcats would get home field advantage throughout the tournament. The Super Regionals will take
ALL PHOTOS BY BRIAN LUONG
Baseball team captains from left to right top row: Grant Larson and Alex DeVito. From left to right bottom row: Tyler Stofiel and Brandon Hernandez place May 22-24 and the winner will be heading to the NCAA Division II Championship tournament. The team just announced captains: pitcher Grant Larson, catcher Tyler Stofiel, designated hitter Alex DeVito and outfielder Brandon Hernandez. These four will look to lead the team to the Super Regionals. Larson led the team in strikeouts (71) and was tied for wins (6) during the 2018 campaign. “I learned a new pitch this year,” Larson said. “I throw a cutter now. My v-lo (velocity) is up too.” Larson looks to continue his success this year. He pitched with a pitch limit of 75 against the Fresno Pacific Sunbirds on Friday. He threw six shutout innings and collected a win. Larson also wants to put together another strong season as he hopes
to get drafted in this years MLB draft. The remaining captains look to get their bats off to a hot start. Stofiel started 38 games behind the plate for the Wildcats in 2018. He collected eight multi-hit games throughout the season. Stofiel had a clutch double in the 12th inning on Friday and eventually scored the gamewinning run in the 12th, allowing the Wildcats to complete their comeback in game two of the doubleheader. DeVito is the teams’ slugger. He led the Wildcats with 63 hits, 7 home runs, 47 RBIs, and a slugging percentage of .472% during the 2018 season. He put together a 10-game hitting streak and had a batting average of .462 during those 10 games. DeVito had four hits in eight
at-bats on Friday, including two doubles and a game-tying RBI in the eighth inning of game two. Hernandez is a transfer student from the University of NebraskaKearney, where he rewrote the record book collecting the most hits, doubles and games on base consecutively in school history. Head coach, Dave Taylor, has to be happy with the fight and energy that the Wildcats displayed on Friday. Coach Taylor has had great success leading the Wildcats. He is in his 13th season as head coach, recording a 438-227 (65.9 percent) record. Taylor has lead the Wildcats to 11 CCAA Championship Tournament appearances, with the most recent championship wins coming in 2016 and 2017. Coach Taylor has also lead the
Wildcats to 11 NCAA tournaments and is aiming to get back this season. Having not won any titles last year, the team is hungry to win this year and host the first Super Regionals tournament game at Nettleton Stadium. The first pitch this season at Nettleton Stadium is Friday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. against the Simpson Red Hawks. A doubleheader is scheduled for Saturday starting at noon. Due to the rain, the series could be moved to Redding and the dates will change. There would be a game Thursday, Feb. 7 the doubleheader would take place on Friday, Feb. 8. Check out the full Wildcat baseball schedule here. Brandon Downs can be reached at theorioneditor@theorion.com or @theorion_news on Twitter
Feb. 6, 2019 10 |SPORTS 12Wednesday |ARTS
Chico State softball faces highs and lows in Vegas tournament Noah Andrews Staff Writer
T
he Chico State Wildcats Women’s Softball team opened up their season this weekend at the Desert Stinger Tournament in Las Vegas. The tournament, which was celebrating its 10th anniversary, has been historically good to the Wildcats since they first entered the 24 team field in 2017. Going undefeated in last years tournament, the Wildcats looked to continue their display of dominance in the desert. Of the five scheduled games this weekend, Chico would only end up playing in three. Although the tournament staff had scheduled two of the games to be played Saturday, Mother Nature had other plans. With constant rain storms throughout the day, the fields were deemed unfit for competition and the games against Northwest Nazarene and Concordia Irvine had to be canceled. Despite the weather inconveniencing play on Saturday, the Wildcats came out ready to prove why they’re considered the front-runners for the CCAA championship this year. The first of their three games played was Friday afternoon against the Azusa Pacific Cougars. A team that is far more talented and competitive than their lackluster 22-28 record from last year would lead one to believe. For although many experts predicted a swift and decisive win from the Wildcats, the Cougars were able to hang around and make the game a nail biter till the very end. Chico walked away
CAITLYN YOUNG—THE ORION
Wendy Cordial concentrating while at-bat where she finished Friday’s victory with 3 RBIs including a home run against Cal State San Bernardino in an archived photo from May 5, 2018. with a 3-2 win, thanks to standout performances from Angel Lopez and Brooke Larson. Chico State’s second game of the day saw them face the Vikings of Western Washington, a team that has struggled in recent years. The Wildcats were set to use this game to demonstrate why they are the favorites to win their conference, they did exactly that. It won the game by mercy rule in the fifth inning with a score of 12-2. Refusing to play down to their opponents level the Wildcats
feasted on a bevy of errors committed by their opponents in the fourth inning, thus opening a sixrun lead. They followed it up with a strong fifth that completed the 12 run bludgeoning and forced the umpire to call the game early.
Chico walked away with a 3-2 win, thanks to standout performances from Angel Lopez and Brooke Larson
Chico’s third and final game was on Sunday against the Western Oregon Wolves. A team considered the underdog in the game ended up soundly defeating Chico by a score of 7-2. Perhaps the long weekend had finally caught up to the Wildcats, or perhaps they simply underestimated their opponents. Whatever the reason, Chico came out flat and their opponents didn’t miss the opportunity to take down one of the most dominant teams in Division II softball.
Chico State will be back at home with a chance to get back on track this upcoming Friday, taking on San Francisco State in a mini two-game series. Noah Andrews can be reached at theorioneditor@theorion.com or @SPORTSFROMNOAH on Twitter.
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
ARTS |11
EXHIBIT
‘Broken Open’ gallery highlights Chico artists Pieces included in the 1078 Gallery are clay plates, dishes and sculptures
Rayanne Painter Staff Writer
“Broken Open,” an art exhibition focusing on sound, words and objects, is open at 1078 Gallery on Park Avenue in Chico. Featuring Chico artists, the gallery collaborates between three different art forms. Clay plates and oval dishes portraying colorful scenes, often of political discourse, hang on the walls of the gallery. Ceramic master, Chico State art instructor Cameron Crawford, created these meticulous pieces of clay by no easy task. “They’re made out of terracotta clay and then they’re covered in a white slip,” Crawford said. “Then, I draw through the slip, almost like a scrwatchboard technique, and the drawing unfolds as I do it. I see something and think “that’s an interesting image, I might want to put that down,” and then once I have that character or scenery down, I respond to that.” Crawford explained that he often takes inspiration from other art that he comes across. This is the case for many of his pieces displayed in the gallery.
I see something and think ‘That’s an interesting image, I might want to put that down Cameron Crawford, Chico State art instructor
“There was a picture of some guys I saw walking quickly
Ceramic art by Cameron Crawford will be featured at the 1078 Gallery until Sunday. through the halls of power, so I put them into a situation where you see them as walking through a flood,” he said. “They’re walking up on this protected boardwalk, but others are not too fortunate to have those types of protections.” While he is influenced by other artists, social issues are also a large theme within his work. “The current political climate is constantly giving me new inspiration,” Craword said. “Probably more environmental issues than anything, and then also the current political climate. Almost every day there seems to be a new environmental policy being
rolled back. What you may see in some of my images are little kids peeking in from the outside, wondering what’s happening to their futures.” Evelyn Ficarra, a composer and sound artist, was also featured within the gallery. Her pieces seemed to be mere sculptures, objects or a collaboration of visuals
What you may see in some of my images are little kids peeking in from the outside, wondering what’s happening to their futures Cameron Crawford, Chico State art instructor
wand solids but made noise and sound in unexpected ways. These sounds correlate to the visual pieces but imply that they may be breaking or already broken. The final installation of the exhibition were words or, for Elise Ficarra, poetry. Ficarra writes in response to visual arts and, within this gallery, her work is hung up for all to see. Her poem “Vessel” appears to be her main work of the collaboration. “(The piece) offers images of the essential wholeness, which survives and surpasses the attempts to break and crack both vessels and the women who carry
RAYANNE PAINTER—THE ORION
them,” according to the 1078 Gallery’s press release. The poem also touches on the Earth “breaking open” in humans’ attempts to extract fossil fuels and trees. The art will remain up until Sunday. Select pieces of Crawford’s ceramic art will be transferred to display cases on the outside of the Arts and Humanities building at Chico State for any of the public to view. Rayanne Painter can be reached at artseditor@theorion.com or @rayphenomenon on Twitter
12 |ARTS Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
Long-awaited “Kingdom Hearts III” lives up to 14 years of hype Ricardo Tovar Staff Writer
“
Kingdom Hearts III” is here, as hard as it is to be-
lieve it. The last numbered title was in 2005－the same year Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl” was number one on the Billboard charts. Was the 14-year wait worth it? Yes, yes it was. The “Kingdom Hearts” series has won four titles since “Kingdom Hearts II” and released a mobile game and movie in 2017, but a main series title for consoles has been a long time coming for fans. A definitive end to the “Dark Seeker Saga” that has had a combined 11 titles spread across nine gaming devices to make sense of the oftentimes convoluted plotline about friendship, hearts, nothingness, light and darkness. You know, typical Japanese role-playing game stuff. The Square Enix series which mixes Disney, Final Fantasy and Pixar characters really shines in the gaming era of 4k resolution. “Kingdom Hearts III” is as visually impressive as any next-generation console that has been released. A parade of colors and seamless combat emerges from the combination of magic powers, summoning Disney characters and rides from their amusement parks, three “Keyblades” with transformations that can be equipped at a time and “flow-motion” to zip across the battlefield.
It’s a lot to grasp at first but after a few hours, it becomes second nature. Enemies are varied and nextgen consoles allow for as many as 20 enemies to be fought at a time. The only downside to combat is if you stay in a world for too long enemies can become repetitive and more of a chore to fight. While the gameplay is gorgeous and fun to look at, the story is what will satisfy hardcore fans of the series. It’s all one could have wanted for an end to this trilogy; one that seeks to fix a lot of the plot holes that the series is infamous for. Disney movie favorites like “Rapunzel,” “Frozen,” “Hercules” and “Monsters Inc.” are all represented and recreated from their old character models. Their individual worlds are vast and overwhelming at times. The cutscenes are often recreations of famous Disney scenes and are even better than their movie counterparts. The writing has been seriously upgraded. It went from cheesy at times to a narrative that drives your emotions to so many different places. When the game wants to be funny it can make you laugh, when it wants to be emotional it makes you tear up and it never fails to hit on the emotion it wants you to feel. “Kingdom Hearts III” is a joy to play and a fantastic title to kick off the 2019 gaming year. It is not without its minor flaws, but mainly in its repetitive combat.
This is the game fans of the series have been waiting patiently for. It more than lives up to the hype and gives momentum for the future of this series.
Ricardo Tovar can be reached at artseditor@theorion.com or @rtovarg13 on Twitter
Kingdom Hearts 3 characters look on at the horizon. Image from know your meme.
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
ANGEL ORTEGA—THE ORION
Elijah Pfotenhauer, a muralist from Santa Cruz, poses in front of his piece, “Lit City 5”. Angel Ortega Staff Writer
C
hico Idea Fab Labs hosted a gallery featuring artwork from Santa Cruz muralist, Elijah Pfotenhauer, on Saturday. Daniel Govan, co-founder of Idea Fab Labs, says the art gallery, entitled “Terraform,” is one of a handful that they host throughout the year. “We throw galleries quarterly, about every three to four months,” Govan said. The goal for Idea Fab Labs is to help artists, both amateur and professional, learn and expand their skill set to evolve their artistic style by giving access to tools and resources. Pfotenhauer is a “muralist by trade,” according to Govan, but was able to evolve his work by using Idea Fab Labs’ creative work-
shops and gaining the ability to have his art gallery curated. “Terraform” features a variety of wooden sculptures and 3-D murals. Pfotenhauer wanted to visualize the harmonious relationship between people and their environments while also emphasizing how we, ourselves, are our own environments. “[The environment] affects us and we affect it,” said Pfotenhauer. “We have environments inside of us, and in our minds, it’s a landscape in there, too.” When discussing the pieces that were displayed, Pfotenhauer said he liked “building off the canvas and into the 3-D plane.” “I like to play with space and not get limited by a rectangle or a square or, if I’m doing a mural, consider the environment around it.” “Terraform” has been in the
making for many years, according to Pfotenhauer. As he walked into his workshop, Pfotenhauer showed off a tub of wood in which he’s been saving pieces of wood for 10 years, hoping to one day create something with them. “Even before I came [to Chico], for years I’ve been saving pieces of wood wanting to do this,” Pfotenhauer said. “Terraform” was originally slated to be showcased last November but was postponed to February due to the Camp Fire. Pfotenhauer credits Idea Fab Labs for giving him the ability to evolve and learn how to create and improve his 3-D murals sculptures. “It’s kind of like water,” he said. “There’s potential energy that’s waiting to go somewhere and when you work through different barriers or learn certain things, all of sudden that water
ARTS |13
The center piece of “Terraform,”, “Broken Bridge.” can pour into new channels and I feel like my art is doing that here.” After Chico, Pfotenhauer plans on traveling to Arizona and possibly Mexico, creating murals and embarking on new artistic endeavors.
ANGEL ORTEGA—THE ORION
You can follow Elijah Pfotenhauer on Instagram @PaintedLadder.
Angel Ortega can be reached at artseditor@theorion.com or @AngelOrtegaNews on Twitter
14 |OPINION
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019
LETTER TO:
Letter to: Slow walkers, what is your deal Are you a slow walker or have you encountered a slow walker, might want to read this Janette Estrada Staff Writer
D
ear you, Disclaimer: If you easily get offended, please
feel free to stop reading this open letter to all the slow walkers who mess with my tranquility. And no, this rant is not for those who have a legitimate reason to travel by the step (a.k.a the elder folks. I like you.). I am talking about the ones who stand in front of my runway with their sluggish catwalk. Let me begin by asking: Who do you think you are? I know you notice me from the corner of your eye. Do not ignore me and continue to slow-walk — it’s rude.
Time is money and you are taking it from me. What’s your deal? Seriously, what goes through your head the moment you decide to cut someone off ? You are ruining my slight chances of actually showing up to class on time. As if it was not enough, you are taking away my non-refundable time. Time is important, Linda. Unless you can return the seconds that could have lead me to meeting the love of my life, I do not like you. Where do you come from? You are everywhere I go. You are there in the most unexpected places at the most unexpected times. Rain or shine, you manage to stand in front of my yellow brick road. The urge to step on the back of your shoe is there, but
DIEGO RAMIREZ—THE ORION
instead I am forced to give you a fake smile implying “you’re fine,” when in reality, between you and me, the tightness of my smile conveys my rage. You weren’t hired to interrupt public peace, were you? I sometimes imagine how nice it must be to have your kind of time. Life must be picture perfect for you to be walking with so calmly. I hate to burst your bubble, but I have places to be and people to meet. Time is money and you are stealing it from me. Think of the many places you could be besides here, with me. So I have an idea — leave my path!
Reality check: you do not own the sidewalk, honey. Sure, let the 21-year-old educate you on a life lesson. Share the sidewalk, the aisle, the space or whatever you want to call it. I am a college student and I am tired. There is also a good chance that I have not eaten, which increases the chances of me having a bad attitude. Please do not make me use my last bits of energy to make my way around your sluggish walk. Move aside. Do not get me wrong — I am not asking you to run, either. I’m simply saying a nice little power walk won’t hurt you. In fact,
there are health benefits that may motivate you to take this matter into serious consideration. Power -walking has physical and mental benefits such as improving circulation, endurance and posture. It also reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, depression, weight gain and other chronic diseases.
Reality check: you do not own the sidewalk honey. So, what is the big deal? Let me help you become a better person.
Do not get offended if I push you along. Let’s do each other a favor and let me lead my catwalk in a synchronized manner. Is that too much to ask? It is a “win-win” situation. Be happy. The next time you see me working my runway, move. A girl needs her shine. Please and thank you. Sincerely, Janette Estrada Janette Estrada can be reached at theorioneditor@theorion.com or @theorion_news on Twitter
LIFESTYLE |15
Wednesday Feb. 6, 2019 Wednesday Jan. 30, 2019
ADVICE
Tips on how to find the perfect cuddle buddy Cuddle season is here and if you haven’t found someone here are some tips Kendall George Staff Writer
I
t’s cuddle season. That is, it’s cuddle season if you have someone to cuddle with.
However, for a large portion of us cuddle-less Wildcats, “single” is a word familiar to our vocabulary that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon. But worry not! Being single has its benefits and if you’re looking to rock the social aspect of being single, we’ve got you covered. Here are some tips for those looking to put themselves out there, whether or not you’re looking for a lifelong bae.
The nightlife in Chico has a way of bringing people together in intense romance and flirtation. Dating Apps: Dating apps are great because you can control how other people see you and it’s easy to put your objectives out in the open so there are no awkward “what are we?” talks on the third date. If you are looking just to have some fun, upload pictures that show off your casual side, like sports pictures or you out with some friends. Also be sure to keep your bio short and to the point. The mystery is sexy (at least in my opinion). If you’re looking for something more serious, upload pictures that speak more to your professional side, like you in a fancy suit or reading at a coffee
GETTY IMAGES PHOTO BY BETSIE VAN DER MEER
shop. In your bio, tell a bit more about yourself because you want to attract people who have similar interests as you. Animal pictures and cute selfies are always welcome, no matter what you’re looking for on dating apps.
You’ll have a cuddle buddy in no time. Fun Classes: If you’re looking to find someone to date in your advanced chemistry class, you might find it harder than if you’re enrolled in something a little more social. Kinesiology and art classes
are great for not only getting a moment to de-stress during the week, but also to vamp up your social life without all the awkwardness of going to parties or bars to flirt. We have found success in yoga classes, ceramics classes and creative writing where people can show off their flexibility, strong hands and deep brains. Trust in the process and you’ll be meeting people in no time. If there’s no time in your schedule for these classes during the day taking up a class at The WREC or joining an intramural sport are other great options for meeting people.
Night Life: The “classic” way to go and meet other singles is going out. The nightlife in Chico has a way of bringing people together in intense romance and flirtation. However, there is a finesse to the art of partying like a single person. If you are looking for a casual encounter for the night, head to more popular bars or frat parties. It may seem like a stereotype, but these places usually have loud music, lots of dancing and sometimes cheap drinks. If you want to meet a lot of people in a short amount of time, these are the places for you. Places like Oasis bar or The Hub on campus
have a more relaxed vibe with an opportunity to get a good conversation in over a game of pool or Mario Kart. Even hanging out at your house for a movie night can have potential because your roommate’s boyfriend might bring their cute friend over and you can smoke weed, watch nature documentaries and steal flirty glances. You’ll have a cuddle buddy in no time. GOOD LUCK OUT THERE! Kendall George can be reached at opinioneditor@theorion.com or @kendallmgeorge on Twitter.