Going Hard in the Paint

Reality TV: Try something new: Flawless victories: Our opinion writers face Reviews of local CSUB completes a off on reality TV’s value Basque restaurants three-game sweep Page 2 Page 3 Page 4

Feb. 19, 2014

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CAMPUS CAMPUS Gamers SpeakerBy Maggie Rodriguez “We’ll recounts be discussing racial seg- Depression, Motherracial Jordan, as “If you experiences can’t read, run. Those Jordan recalled her experience Staff Writer regation in class, [so] the profes- fellow churchgoers call her, was who trespassed were lynched, working in a convalescent home sor said it would be beneficial one of six children born to a beaten and had their life taken from 1945 to 1947. reach for Cora Jordan delivered an emo- for us to come … and it sound- family of sharecroppers. . away,” Jordan said. “I left Oklahoma to Dallas for tional and inspirational discus- ed interesting,” Moran said. “We were not our own, we had While in Texas, Jordan stayed nursing school. There were few voice of sion about race and politics for According to Executive to take what they gave us,” said with her aunt, who worked as a black people working there this month’s Brown Bag Assistant to the President Jordan, referring to her family’s domestic for a white family, but [and] the older people would not Discussion held in the Stockdale Evelyn Young, the idea to invite experience as sharecroppers. would see her once a week as want us to touch them. They Mario Room inside the Runner Café. Jordan came about on the heels Although Jordan grew up in the she lived in the servant quarters. would kick us, spit at us and ASI discusses The luncheon was an open dis- of the release of the movies midst of segregation, she didn’t It was during this time that poke our eyes. It was challeng- themes, Campus cussion between Jordan and the “The Help” and “The Butler,” see the difference between Jordan got an inside look at ing taking care of people who audience. which highlighted race relation- blacks and whites. what these domestics went did want us to take care of Gamers grant One of those students was ships in the U.S. through a It wasn’t until Jordan left to through. them,” Jordan said. By Stephanie Cox nursing major, Diana Moran, unique perspective. Dallas to attend nursing school “I was upset most of the time. After meeting her husband at Staff Writer 18, who said she heard about the Born in Harris, Okla. in 1929, that she experienced the realities I cooked for them, but I was not [See JORDAN, Page 3] event in her history class. in the midst of the Great of segregation. good enough to sit with them.” Associated Students, Inc. worked on two issues on Feb. 14. One, bringing the voice of SPORTS world-famous plumber and hero to princesses everywhere, Super Mario, to campus. And two, getting student feedback on a theme-based learning sys- tem as part of the big switch to semesters. GOING HARD IN THE PAINT Campus Gamers member Edward Webb approached ASI for a funding grant that would supply the club with enough money to bring the voice of Nintendo’s Mario, Charles Martinet, to CSUB for their annual Gamer Education Day. Gamer Education Day is Campus Gamers’ opportunity to present speakers from the gaming industry to broaden stu- dents’ educational scope to the idea of games for educational purposes. The event is always free and the club is getting help from a couple of different stu- dent organizations on campus. Webb said, “We’re working as many student groups into the program as we can.” ASI Arts and Humanities Director Ricardo Perez said, “I think this is an important event for the students to show them greater opportunities.” ASI President Hilda Nieblas said, “One of the goals of the campus is to bring individuals Diana Olivarez/The Runner of this caliber to our campus. Left: Redshirt senior guard Brandon Barnes drives toward the The event emphasizes on our net Saturday at the Rabobank Arena. goals and allows us to provide an event that students can relate Above: Redshirt senior Stefon Johnson gets blocked by a to.” University of Seattle defender on Saturday at the Rabobank Charles Martinet has been the Arena. voice of Mario for more than 20 years as well as many other For more analysis on the ’Runners’ victory over Seattle on Saturday and their undefeated home series, turn to PAGE 5. loved characters such as Luigi, Wario and Waluigi. His voice For more sports coverage, including the baseball team first appeared in 1995 in sweeping Milwaukee over the weekend, our sports editors Windows’ “Mario’s FUN- discussing the topic of paying college athletes, and the damentals.” Other games Athlete of the Week, turn to PAGE 6. Martinet’s voice has appeared in include “Animal Crossing: Wild World” and “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.” [See GRANT, Page 3]

CLUBS

PsychologyBy Rachel Hill Dawn Oxford alone honors crafted 80 said money raised club throughout sells Valentine’s gifts Staff Writer more in order to continue sell- the year will pay for guest ing. speakers, dinners, snacks and The Psi Chi Club joined that Cody Whitson, a 22-year-old decorations for these events. loving feeling of Valentine’s senior psychology major and “Our first real successful year week with gifts made of customer, searched for the most was last year, but this year far Hershey’s Kisses. The purple-looking one for a friend. surpassed it,” Abramson said. International Honor Society in “I’m buying it for my best Hayley Roach, a 20-year-old Psychology raised more than friend. I buy her something senior and chapter president, $200 selling chocolate for the every year,” he said. said selling the gifts was a fun holiday. Club members made The Psi Chi Club hosts gradu- experience and the Psi Chi Club gifts that resembled long- ate workshop panels and induc- nearly sold out by Tuesday stemmed roses and set up in the tion events along with a afternoon. Angelina Perez, the Dorothy Donahoe Hall from research conference held annu- secretary of the club, agreed. Feb. 10 to 13. ally on campus. The conference “For me it’s been fun too. I get Sold for $1 each, club member allows for students of psycholo- to do something to help our Julie Hurley sold at least 60 gy and other social sciences to organization,” she said. walking around campus, mak- gain experience by presenting Psi Chi was founded in 1929. ing a large and welcome dent in research to their peers. Club [See PSYCH, Page 3] Schaelaur Smith/The Runner their inventory. Club member advisor Marianne Abramson A student inquires about PSI CHI’s fundraiser for Valentine’s Day on Wednesday, Feb.12. Opinion Feb. 19, 2014

Volume2 XXXIX, Issue 14 THE RUNNER The Runner California State University, Gay Byrights Alex Ripepi issuesbeen a little gay” appear onscreen. handled Instead of highlightingpoorly the athletic achievement of gay Bakersfield Opinion Editor Turning a sport that has loosely homoerotic positions athletes, they are singled out in an almost mocking way. 9001 Stockdale Hwy. for about five seconds into a caricature of gay sexuali- The other ad by XXL, a Norwegian company, high- Bakersfield, CA 93311-1099 The 2014 Winter Olympics have revealed how truly ty is hardly the proper way for anyone to showcase the lights the bumbling antics of male athletes trying to Telephone 661.654.2165 immature the world is in respect to issues concerning pride they have for their team. impress a woman walking through an airport. Fax 661.654.6905 homophobia. The men vie for her attention fervently [email protected] E-mail With the announcement of Russia as this until she reaches the runway and kisses a therunneronline.com games’ host, the controversy surrounding woman getting off of a plane (to the dis- editorialstaff the safety of our gay athletes immediate- may of all of the men). ly took off. While the ad highlights the hilarious EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The media addressed the problem rather and misguided attempts of the flirtatious Robin Gracia appropriately at first, questioning the male athletes, the woman, who is the [email protected] legitimacy of Russia’s anti-gay legisla- only obviously gay person in the ad is tion, passed in June 2013, respective to simply used for a sex appeal. Even so, MANAGING EDITOR the United States Olympic Committee the woman isn’t even implied to be an Steven Barker ban on discrimination based on sexual athlete. [email protected] orientation. This is not to say that we should bury However, some media outlets began to the issue, but a simpler, more serious NEWS handle the issue rather poorly after the approach to the issue would be more Michael Wafford, Editor initial bout of respectable concern. than enough to get the point across that Sandy Ornelas, Assistant Editor Instead of genuinely discussing the we as a country won’t stand for the mis- implications of sending openly gay ath- treatment of Olympians regardless of OPINION letes to a possibly dangerous environ- race, gender, orientation or otherwise. Alex Ripepi, Editor Brandon Mann, Assistant Editor ment, two ads in particular have shifted Image by instinctmagazine.com These depictions of gay people are not the focus from the well being of our gay Canadian LGBT allies attempt to show support through humor in this ad. appropriate ways of expressing support FEATURES athletes to their sexuality in particular. in the current hotbed of risk that is Athena Skapinakis, Editor An ad by the Canadian Institute of Russia. Shelby Parker, Assistant Editor Diversity and Inclusion depicts two male lugers in a In another circumstance where the safety of our ath- Although as a group of nations, the initial message is rather sexualized version of a launch set to The Human letes and others wasn’t at risk, this ad would be less that our athletes, whether gay, straight or otherwise, are SPORTS Leagues’ “Don’t You Want Me Baby,” and as they fin- suspect, but as it stands now, this depiction of the sport supported, the subsequent drift into satirization is Nathan Sanchez, Editor ish their launch, the words “the games have always is more damaging than anything. essentially mocking the gay community. Josh Bennett, Assistant Editor

PHOTO Rebecca Grant, Editor Emily Cole, Assistant Editor Reality TV offers an escape for viewers WEB EDITOR Sometimes we just need to know our lives aren’t as pathetic as the ones on TV Casey Webb By Anthony Jauregui People need controversy in their lives There’s also a myriad of self-help [email protected] Staff Writer to make it interesting. We need to find shows that spark change in viewers. something to judge someone about to John Perritano of howstuffworks.com ADVERTISING/BUSINESS Teen moms, Italian accents and count- feel better about ourselves. said, “Although hoarders have been MANAGER less cooking shows: reality television We need to have a rotunda of events cir- around for centuries, shows such as Kassie Mullican comes in all shapes and sizes. Some culating to make our lives interesting ‘Hoarders’ and ‘Hoarding: Buried Alive’ [email protected] shows exploit drunken mishaps and oth- and when our personal lives do not have have increased public awareness about a ers show viewers how to bake cupcakes that, we look to reality TV. serious mental health issue.” DISTRIBUTION MANAGER in under a minute. Phil Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” was There are also shows about drug abuse Dayai Youn Though popularized by negative stig- banned from the show for saying anti- that examine what exactly goes on mas, reality TV brings awareness to gay comments. This resulted in freedom behind the doors of a rehabilitation facil- ADVISER societal issues like teen pregnancy and of speech backlash from the public. ity. Jennifer Burger stupidity. This is exactly what reality TV is good What better way to show that celebri- [email protected] When watching, I often find myself for: calling social issues to our attention. ties have issues just like us than showing thinking: “How can people be that way? According to Wellesley College econo- them on drugs? newsroomstaff I’m glad I’m not like them.” mist Phillip B. Levine and University of Reality TV has bad subsidiaries such as Steve Greene of Steve Greene Comedy Maryland economist Melissa Schettini “Jersey Shore” or “Keeping Up With the COPY CHIEF on YouTube, in his video ‘Why Reality Kearney, “Teen Mom” and “16 and Kardashians.” But the vast amount of Shelby Hagelstein TV Kicks Ass’ says, “The greatest reali- Pregnant” contributed to a six percent shows allows choices for everyone. STAFF WRITERS ty TV shows make you even more sure decrease in birth rates from 2009 to Yes, the shows exhibit stupidity among Stephanie Cox, Ileana Angulo, of yourself.” 2010. Hollywood’s stars. Yes, they give praise Rachel Hill, Anthony Jauregui, Reality television helps the viewer Sarah Brown, CEO of the National to Honey Boo Boo and her overweight Richard Garibay, Margarita appreciate what they have and realize Campaign to Prevent Teen and family. Rodriguez, Connie Hayes, Alma what they do not want to have. Bad Unplanned Pregnancy, said, “Reality Image from hollywoodreporter.com But, imagine a world where all we Sandoval, Jonathan Bradford, shows like “Real World: Some Random series like these two MTV shows and Phil Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” watched was news and sitcoms. It’d be Tony Baltazar City” shows viewers the consequences other constructive programs should be has come under fire for comments dry and boring. that drinking all night and sleeping all seen as key parts of 21st-century sex made during an interview with GQ. We need people to look at and think PHOTOGRAPHERS AND day cause. education.” “Damn, what’s wrong with them?” MULTIMEDIA I get reassurance and satisfaction know- The exploitation of these mothers ing you won’t be having a child any time We need to have a variety of shows on Fernando Miranda, Diana ing that my life is not as pathetic as the brings sexual awareness to viewers. Not soon, it’s great to know you won’t have TV. We need reassurance on how awe- Olivares, Schaelaur Smith, people on these shows. only is there a rewarding feeling know- to deal with the drama they go through. some each and every one of us is. Mateo Solano

ABOUT The Runner is a laboratory newspaper published weekly, in TheBy Richard harsh Garibay realityity TV is that it goes againstof thetelevisionwant to become rich and conjunction with the Staff Writer very essence of what TV should famous they should publish a Department of be. sex tape. Communications at California It’s been a long day; you sit It glorifies the lives of people State University, Bakersfield. down and turn on your televi- who get shit-faced drunk and The Runner believes all adver- sion set. What do you see as Reality TV has have a melodramatic fight with tising to be correct but cannot you flip through the channels? created a genera- their roommates. guarantee its accuracy or be Things like “Washed Up Is this really the type of people responsible for its outcome. Celebrity Looking for Love,” tion of people we want our society to wor- “Teenagers Who’ve Ruined who want to ship? LETTERS TO THE Their Lives” or maybe “Rich Imagine if an alien spacecraft EDITOR People Dealing With Their Rich become rich and landed on Earth at the same Send letters to the editor to People Problems.” famous but don’t time Kim Kardashian and [email protected]. All letters It’s the terrible excrement that Kanye West had their wonder- must be signed and verified want to work hard is reality TV. It’s everything fully named baby, North West. and be no more than 300 to achieve it. words in length. Letters may wrong with modern television. The aliens see the couple on be edited for clarity and Sure, it’s fun to watch people every newsstand and news length. being awful and living their Television shows aren’t sup- channel and ask, “Who are train wreck of a life in front of posed to force the ugliness of they? They must’ve done some- DISCLAIMERS millions of viewers, but at what everyday modern life down our thing great.” Views and opinions expressed cost? throats; they should distract us No, she had sex with a guy and in the Runner are not necessar- There was a time in the not- from it. I watch TV in order to videotaped it and he is a record- ily those of the editors, staff or too-distant past when the ‘M’ in escape reality for 30 minutes to ing “artist.” It’s pathetic. the Department of MTV stood for something an hour. Reality TV forces people to Communications. Each quar- called music. Now the only If I wanted to see pregnant watch the every move of people ter’s student staff determines music MTV plays is the open- teenage girls crying I could visit who have done absolutely noth- content/advertising choices, ing titles to whatever reality TV my old high school. I can’t, ing worth talking about. with advice only from the show it’s airing. however, walk out my door and Reality TV has created a gen- adviser. Content creation and It isn’t just MTV, either. Most watch a group of humans sur- eration of people who want to selection are all made by stu- networks are spewing reality viving a zombie apocalypse. become rich and famous but dent editors. The staff of the programs – even the History Not yet anyway. don’t want to work hard to Runner reserves the right to Channel. What’s worse is, in the eyes of achieve it. refuse or omit any advertising If I flip on the History Channel naive children, reality TV is It has blurred the line between or material which advocates illegal activity, or which many it’s because I want to see some rewarding stupidity and dis- fame and infamy and is slowly be considered libelous, irre- history, not “Pawn Stars.” gusting behavior. eating away at our collective sponsible or tasteless. The One of the problems with real- It tells children that if they intelligence. Runner does not accept tobac- co-related advertising. COPYRIGHT Share Your Voice Copyright belongs to the Department of To submit a letter to the editor, send an e-mail to: Communications at California State University, Bakersfield. runner@ csub.edu Your feedback and opinions are welcome Feb. 19 , 2014 News 3

AcademicBy Connie Hayes Principles forSenate General Education As stated mulls in the handout, the role gen in the senate of NSM&Eedat large,amendments “does junior diversity major questions on soon to be Staff Writer Reform at CSUB. This included main problem with this amend- and needed further clarity on count for upper division?” and graduates minds. Are they pre- a General Education resolution ment is that “it may also sacri- Amendment C, she “disagrees Rush also asking “does pared? Opposing opinions and a tense ending with the hope that the fice the thematic emphasis that that (skills training) stops once Amendment C change diversity The ending statement came atmosphere were dominant at university can “send out gradu- was preferred by the faculty and you hit your major” and “diver- content?” from Paul Smith from the the Academic Senate meeting ates that hope to be successful in confirmed in this Senate’s sity should be integrated,” she Real world skills are what the Biology department and his sen- that took place on Thursday, life and in careers.” charge to GEIC and provides the also did not agree with number faculty members at the meeting ate role “at large” then stated to Feb. 13 in the Health Conference For the next hour and twenty coherence that students say is three on the Upper Division argued over the most. Can one the room, “no diversity in lower room on campus. The main minutes the meeting consisted of missing from the current GE Requirements, “A Thematic course affect whether or not a division. Basic skills taught in topic of discussion was the the senate members as well as program.” Area course to satisfy the student can graduate from this science. In favor of Amendment potential amendments to the other attendees trying to under- Andreas Gebauer, CSUB remaining Area.” university, and be prepared to be C.” New General Education stand Amendment C. The repre- Chemistry Professor and CSU The majority of the room made thrown out in the real world The ballots were distributed to Program. sentatives from different depart- Senator, is in favor of it clear that they were very con- ready to go into a career they are vote yes or no on Amendment C The meeting was opened by ments argued over whether or Amendment C. Gebauer made it fused about Amendment C, and not specifically trained for? Can with votes only distributed to the Chair of the Academic not a specific area of study very clear that he feels the sci- tense discussion followed as English majors be thrown into “voting members only”. The Senate, Jacquelyn Kegley from would be necessary for real ences cannot be gauged as a nec- they tried to make sense of it. the business world? Can a math- result was 10 no votes, five yes the Department of philosophy & world skills. essary skill by others, “can you From this point, the chair decid- ematics major be thrown into a and one abstention. Amendment religious studies. The chair then From here the chair stated that decide for scientists what they ed to move to Committee of public relations department at a C was repealed. asked that the interim vice chair she would like to “negate need; constrained by our obliga- Whole Open Discussion, the large corporate company? Is a Amendments A & B were then preside over the meeting while Amendment C,” which is “an tions of our study to learn motion passed. From here the course that trains students for the brought to the discussion, which the chair makes a statement; option to modify the upper-divi- skills?” He also stated, “I don’t floor was open and allowed any- business world required for contain one unit course for under copies of her statement were sion GE program to allow for a see any damage in one course.” one to ask questions for clarifi- every major to ensure they are 48 units and that capstone is passed around, and Kegley then full 3-unit capstone course with- Maureen Rush from the cation. prepared for whatever life more important with made an account of Guiding in every discipline.” Mathematics department has the With Gebauer asking the room throws at them? These are the Amendment A.

ASI ponders proposals for themes [GRANT, Page 1] ASI also met with Associate would like to see a leadership theme. Professor John Tarjan of management and mar- “Ethics in the World: Practice and Leadership” keting who discussed the approval of a theme- is one of the nine themes that would provide edu- based model for the CSUB campus. cation for leadership. There is a list of nine proposed topics including Tarjan announced that a survey from Survey sustainability, social and environmental justice, Monkey will be emailed to students for feedback food studies and quality of life. on which three of the nine themes appeal to them Nieblas stated in a previous meeting that she the most.

Discussion of race touches students [JORDAN, Page 1] a church in sociology major, Jordan’s pres- entation was hard to listen to. Texas, Jordan became “You read about this and you an evangelist and traveled for “You read about study it in class but to actually Schaelaur Smith/The Runner eight years and got to experi- hear someone‘s experience it Money Psi Chi raised during the chocolate sale will go toward promoting scholary excellence. ence prejudice in different this and you study was definitely an emotional dis- states. it in class but to cussion. She serves as an inspi- Moving to California in the actually hear ration to everyone,” Gutierrez 1960s brought on a new chal- said. [PSYCH,Club Page sells 1] It was estab- chocolatesare to provide academic recog-for dents,fundraiser may apply for member- lenge for Jordan, who became a someone‘s experi- The next Brown Bag lished “to encourage, stimulate nition of scholarly excellence ship. The club plans to foster parent, as she was over- ence it was defi- Discussion will be on Thursday, and maintain excellence in and to offer a climate of cre- fundraise again next year for looked because of the color of Mar. 20 at noon with guest scholarship and to advance the ative development to its mem- Valentine’s Day. They also skin but she challenged the sys- nitely an emotion- speaker David Conarroe dis- science of psychology.” Also bers.” have an upcoming event tem and changed that. al discussion.” cussing sectarian conflict in according to CSUB’s website Undergraduate and graduate planned for spring selling See’s For Eleazar Gutierrez, 22, a Eleazar Gutierrez Northern Ireland. “the two main goals of Psi Chi students, including transfer stu- Candy. Features Feb. 19, 2014 4

LucyBy Shelby ParkerHale entertains19-year-old fan of Hale. “I liked that she was a atThe room eruptedthe in cheers fromCrystal young girls all Sound Good ToPalace Me,” which the audience was Assistant Features Editor familiar face, after having seen her on Disney over the room. more familiar with. Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place.” What many fans don’t know is that Hale began “The show was short, but sweet,” said Reveles. Phones were ringing off their hooks at Buck Reveles began giving Hale’s music a listen when her career as a singer. “Lucy is a talented girl on and off the stage and Owen’s Crystal Palace on Wednesday, Feb. 6, as she heard she was coming to town. She was one of the contestants on the short-lived definitely has a sweet charm about her.” fans of ABC Family’s “Pretty Little Liars” “I found it very cool she was coming, since we American Idol spin-off, American Juniors, which Reveles also added that she’s “really looking attempted to reserve a free seat at actress Lucy don’t get a lot of celebs, and I knew I would aired in 2003. forward to hearing her full album coming out and Hale’s musical regret not going,” said Reveles. When it came to which genre she would pick, hearing more of her stuff.” debut. KUZZ deejay Toni Marie announced Hale, country has always been her favorite. Due to time constraints, Hale did not have time Local radio station explaining that the singer hadn’t yet made her “I love the stories and to answer questions from the KUZZ announced debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage, though she how nostalgic a song can audience, but she did pose for that Hale, 24, would on Feb. 21. make you feel,” said Hale. “I love the stories and photographs with fans before would be promot- Hale took the stage in a black flowered dress, The title of her upcoming how nostalgic a song leaving the venue. Being close to ing her new single, greeting the crowd and throwing a “y’all” in album will be “Road her fans is extremely important “You Sound Good there, revealing a bit of her southern twang. Between.” can make you feel.” for Hale. To Me” and other Hailing from Memphis, her country roots run She explained to the Lucy Hale During an interview in January, songs on deep. Alongside her were several band members, crowd that she was on the Hale told Teen Vogue that many Wednesday, Feb. playing the box and guitar for a few acoustic fence of whether or not she fans know her as her character 12. She is current- tunes. should have a self-titled album. from “Pretty Little Liars,” but her album will give ly on a radio tour. Hale kicked the show off with “Goodbye Gone,” After much deliberation, she decided to name them a chance to see who she really is. “I first became a which is like most country songs in the sense that her album after her song of the same. Hale might not be the next Carrie Underwood or Shelby Parker/The Runner fan of Lucy’s from it has a message of female empowerment and The album largely deals with the journey of life Martina McBride, as far as vocals go, but she has Actress Lucy Hale watching her on quite a bit of sass. and finding yourself, which seems to be the most the potential of being someone that girls can click debuted her country ‘Pretty Little When the song ended, Hale took a sip of water relatable for the demographic of her fans. with, like Taylor Swift. album at the Crystal Liars’,” said and asked the crowd, “Are any of you a fan of the Hale played five songs in total and was on stage It will be interesting to watch her evolve as an Palace on Feb. 12. Amanda Reyes, a show ‘Pretty Little Liars?’” about 25 minutes, singing “Kiss Me” and “You artist in years to come.

BakersfieldBy Kristen Garza is a hotspotBenji’s is definitely a popular for destination. the The wait timeBasque on a According to Britannica.com, culture the Basque lineage can be traced Staff Writer Saturday night can be over an hour, whereas at Chalet I have never as far back as the first century. The society originated in the waited more than ten minutes for a table. One would assume this is Pyrenees Mountains between Southern France and Northern Spain If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience any of the due to the community’s preference for Benji’s fare over Chalet’s, and is reportedly still thriving in the very same foothills today. Basque food here in Bakersfield, I encourage you to do so. but I believe it is simply the Rosedale location of Benji’s restaurant There is said to be an astounding 18 million people of Basque Bakersfield is reported to have one of the largest concentrations of that makes it a hot spot. descent in the world. Basque restaurants in the country. From Wool Growers and Chalet The service at both restaurants was above standard and we Basque culture is alive and thriving, especially here in Basque to Benji’s, Basque restaurants offer a truly unique experi- received all eight courses in a timely manner. Bakersfield. Our obsession with the Basque culture extends further ence. Whichever location you choose, prepare to pay for what you get. than just the cuisine. Basque food, also known as French cuisine, is presented much Benji’s is more expensive than Chalet For instance, Kern County has a Basque differently than other restaurants. The menu appears minimal, but Basque, with prices averaging $22 an club whose sole mission is to preserve the once you have made your selection, the food immediately starts entrée. Basque culture is alive and Basque culture and traditions here in our rolling in. Do remember, however, that the entrée is thriving, especially here in county. Entrée options range from seafood, steaks and chicken to delica- actually more like an eight course meal. Bakersfield. Our obsession Local authors Steve Bass and George cies such as duck, lamb and veal. In my experience at Benji’s, my son’s Ansolabehere also perpetuate the history of Each dinner comes with salad, cabbage soup, beans, bread, mar- tri-tip and my filet mignon were both with the Basque culture Basque culture in Bakersfield in their novel, inated tomatoes, french fries, green beans, and pickled tongue. The undercooked and had to be placed back on extends further than just “The History of Basques in Kern County,” wait staff will continue to load your table with all of the refillable the grill. So, stressing to the server exact- which can be found at Basque restaurant food as per your request. ly how you want your food cooked is the cuisine. Wool Growers and online. I visited Benji’s and Chalet Basque. Chalet’s atmosphere is much probably a good idea. If you’re feeling adventurous and want an more intimate whereas Benji’s seemed more frantic. After experi- Both locations have an active bar. The bar at Benji’s appeared to entertaining night out, I highly suggest exploring the tastes of the encing both restaurants, the general consensus among my friends be the preferred location to wait the hour until your table is ready. Basque culture. I would recommend Chalet Basque at 200 Oak and family is that Chalet’s food is better. For myself, I’d have to say Conversely, Chalet’s bar plays popular music and is known to hire Street or Benji’s at 4001 Rosedale Highway. The food is filling, the they were too similar to choose. an occasional guest DJ. ambiance is memorable and you’ll definitely want to visit again. Feb. 19, 2014 Features/Sports 5

CSUBBy Ileanainvites Angulo youthe promising to events ‘Abut it is notNight the main purpose. At lastUnderto class. Make experiences the and make Stars’ memories to look back Staff Writer year’s homecoming game, 1,151 people attended. at,” said Smith. An event like homecoming takes a lot of time to organize. In order to get the full college experience, students need to An exciting night full of fun, mingling and dancing is “It is not something put together in a couple of weeks. It’s a get involved. The lack of a football team creates an absence expected at this year’s homecoming ball. The ball will take beast in itself. We have been working on it for seven to eight of school spirit among students. place downtown at the Marriott Hotel. Campus clubs and stu- months,” said Smith. Coordinators strive to get more students “We lack in school spirit. Going to events will help increase dents chose the theme, “A Night Under the Stars.” In order to attend each year. In order to do so the location this year school spirit,” said Ricky Perez, ASI director of Arts and to live up to student expectations, the coordinators, such as was changed to the Humanities the Associated Students, Inc and Programming, considered Marriott Hotel. Last “I believe homecoming In order to insure student involvement the week of home- student input and are doing their best to make those expecta- year homecoming was coming a series of events are held. One of the events students tions a reality. at CSUB’s Icardo week brings a very pos- look forward to is voting for the homecoming court. Many students such as freshman Patty Jaramillo ask, “Why Center, so not many itive vibe and an ener- Depending on their status students can run for freshman, do we have a homecoming when we do not have football?” students wanted to getic atmosphere on sophomore, and junior prince and princess while seniors run The answer, which Spirit Program Coordinator Arthur Smith attend. for queen and king. Voting will take place Feb. 25 at the says everyone agrees with is, “We do not want to lose the campus.” “I did not attend last Dhiraj Kumar Student Union. Students can vote with a valid CSUB ID. opportunity for student involvement. Having homecoming is year. We look forward “I really like to participate and be involved in events that are a way to capture school spirit in lieu of not having a football to dressing up and going on around campus, especially during homecoming team.” feeling like we are going to an event – not just get dressed up week. I believe homecoming week brings a very positive Most universities initiate their homecoming at a football to walk across campus,” said junior psychology major Thalia vibe and an energetic atmosphere on campus,” said Dhiraj game but at CSUB basketball is used to get people excited Martinez. Kumar, ASI director of Business and Administration. for homecoming. So far it’s worked well. Students are eager “Involvement outside of regular school academic require- Tickets are now being sold at the cashier’s office for $10 for to attend the basketball game and many alumni also attend. ments is vital. Student involvement outside of the classroom students and $15 for guests. Only one guest per student is Coordinators strive to have alumni come back each year to ties students more to campus. College is more than just going allowed.

CSUB By’Runners Nate Sanchez take“He’s oneout of the top Seattleplayers in the league,” Grayson University said. Redhawks Sports Editor “One of the biggest keys was to contain ‘No. 1.’” The outcome of the game was a tug of war on both sides. The CSUB men’s basketball team beat the Redhawks of Before the ’Runners took their final 18 point lead, the Seattle University by a score of 83-63 on Saturday, Feb. 15 ’Runners had a 13 point lead whittled down to four points in at the Rabobank Arena. a matter of three minutes. “Our guys played with a lot of confidence,” said Head “They are a good team,” said sophomore center Aly Ahmed. Coach Rod Barnes. “It was probably our best game in “All of the teams we play are pretty good, so we’re not going defense. Hopefully we can stay humble.” to have an easy game.” The ’Runners went into Saturday’s game with positive Ahmed finished the game with 15 points and eight rebounds momentum from a 9-point win over Idaho on Thursday. With for the ’Runners. the two victories last week, the ’Runners have moved into a The ’Runners, in addition to playing a good game defen- current tie for fourth place with two other schools. sively, recorded 20 assists, 12 of which were in the second “It was a big-time win for us,” said redshirt senior guard half. Issaiah Grayson. “When we get that monkey off our back, “We’re trying to play as unselfishly as possible,” said jun- can’t nobody beat us.” ior guard Tyrell Corbin. “I think we’re able to close out The ’Runners were pressured by the Redhawk defense from games more that way. We’ve figured out that just one guy the start of the game. The first half of the game only saw a can’t just win the game.” combined 55 points from both teams. The ’Runners hit the road on Thursday, Feb. 20 to take on The ’Runners brought the pressure on defense as well, the Kangaroos of the University of Missouri, Kansas City. despite a size disadvantage. The ’Runners kept the Western With five games remaining in the regular season, the Athletic Conference’s leading scorer Isaiah Umipig to a 25 ’Runners are looking for a final push of momentum to launch Diana Olivares/The Runner percent field goal percentage and only three points in the first them into the WAC Tournament. Redshirt senior guard Issaiah Grayson takes flight against half. Seattle on Feb. 14. Grayson went on to score 22 points. Sports Feb. 19, 2014 6

StudentStudent athletes are a major part of manyathletes a side dealers are selling theshould merchandise he 41 percent. be Athletics helpcompensated university’s financial success. The Runner signed. Mario Williams, the No. 1 pick in the advertise the school, and these Sports Guys feel that you can’t spell NFL Draft in 2006, made his money working athletes are the advertise- exploitation without NCAA. at Subway. South Park compared the NCAA ments. They need to be com- to slave labor. While this case is not that pensated for essentially By Nate Sanchez and Josh Bennett extreme, the athletes are being used to make “pimping out” the school to Sports Editor and Assistant Sports Editor the school and their programs look good. The the public. only thing they get out of this is a degree, if NS: Okay, so should student athletes have they choose to actively pursue one, or the NS: The NCAA tournament is the right to unionize? And if they get that slim chance of playing professionally. another thing. March Madness right, should they be financially compensat- is all month. That means that ed? NS: Slavery might seem pretty extreme, but these student athletes are miss- you’re definitely on the right track. Arian ing a month of classes. To pull JB: Yeah they should. If they unionize, they Foster said it was more like indentured servi- a student out of class for a become employees of the college. Many col- tude. And while the only thing they get out of month and not pay them just leges are already profiting off these kids, it is a degree, that’s the crux of many an argu- for the glory of the university whether it be ticket sales, jersey sales, or sell- ment against this. It’s tough to argue with a is asinine. Especially while the ing them off to video games. All these kids free or discounted college education. That’s universities, corporate spon- get is tuition and nothing else to live with. pretty valuable, right? sors, television stations, arenas They are not getting compensated from this. and venue owners reap the While a free education is nice, they still have JB: Yeah it is valuable, but the average stu- fruits of labor they didn’t even to work for extra money, and food and gas dent is not advertised or marketed like the do. and everything. athletes are. The NCAA made $11 billion in average yearly revenue, according to Forbes, JB: Exactly right. Another NS: Even then, not all athletes get a full which was more than the NBA and NHL example is this year’s BCS scholarship. Some student athletes only get combined. Alabama created $143 million in Championship game on a partial scholarships and others are only invit- athletic revenue, more than 25 out of 30 Monday night. The Florida ed to walk on. NBA teams and every NHL team. The major- State players missed their first ity of this money is pumped through the ath- days of spring semester class- Alma Sandoval/The Runner JB: Jadeveon Clowney said in an interview letic systems, athletic director, select admin- es because of this. The NCAA as an entity has become a titan of American athlet- with Jim Rome last week that he would stay ics. Its financial success has been reached on the efforts of istrators, and coaches. The University of wageless laborers. in college if he got paid, but he’s going into Alabama in Tuscaloosa, who is paying foot- NS: Now I’ve gotta play will be the same, but they all should get the NFL Draft because “having to take care ball head coach Nick Saban over $7 million devil’s advocate. There are a lot of issues sur- something for the time they dedicate to it and of my family” is more of a priority. Many of a year, and do not even go to improving the rounding the topic. For starters, without a set for representing their schools. these guys are trying to make their families classrooms. amount given to each school to pay their ath- better off, and they either have to wait while letes, the system would create a monopoly NS: Jay Bilas said that it’s ridiculous that an in college, or never get the chance at profes- NS: There’s the unfairness again. Coaches for schools like Alabama, taking away any English major wouldn’t be denied profits sional ball. live well, while the students live like peas- real competitive balance. Also, would all from a book they write, but athletes aren’t ants, which really isn’t fair. Ask anyone in sports be paid the same? Football makes way compensated for their work to bring their NS: Good point. A lot of big Division I ath- America who Ban Ki Moon is, and they more money than tennis; does the allotted school into the public eye. Alabama’s numer- letes come from low-income families who probably couldn’t tell you. Ask the same peo- money get split evenly among the athletes or ous national championships have earned mil- wouldn’t normally be able to afford an edu- ple who Johnny Manziel is and they’ll tell would schools be free to offer professional lions of dollars for the school. Withholding cation for their kids. Giving them a piece of you who he is and where he plays college style contracts with a salary cap? payment to the athletes who earned it is the pie would be good for the well-being of football. Without these athletes, most univer- unethical. To give the ASI president a finan- the students who, in the case of most univer- sities lose their main attraction. JB: I think it should be a percentage of the cial stipend with perks and let his fellow stu- sities, are the biggest magnet to the school. generated revenue for all athletes, then if a dent ambassador go without pay is simply JB: Exactly. Would anyone know about particular athlete is in an ad campaign, or on ridiculous. Change won’t come immediately JB: You’ve got Johnny Manziel getting in Gonzaga, Boise State or Butler if it wasn’t a billboard, or has a jersey or shirt with their and the system won’t be without flaws in the trouble for signing autographs, yet Texas for athletics? Not at all. After Butler went to number sold on it, then they get the revenue beginning, but unionization for student ath- A&M sells his No. 2 jerseys, and other out- the Final Four in 2010, admissions rose by from that on top of it. Of course not all sports letes needs to happen.

Baseball sweeps season opener

Diana Olivares/The Runner Sophomore right fielder Chance Gusbeth slides into home plate Friday, Feb. 14 against the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

By Josh Bennett hit. looked to build off some mis- Assistant Sports Editor Along with the pitching suc- takes that were made, such as cess, the hitting was also pres- leaving the based loaded three The ’Runners baseball team ent. After the ’Runners scored times. beat the Milwaukee Panthers 8- one run in the first inning, cour- “We had some times when we 4 Friday at Hardt Field. Junior tesy of an RBI single from could have made it a lot higher designated hitter Logan Trowbridge, CSUB exploded score. I think we were OK Trowbridge led the way for for four runs in the second. defensively,” said Kernan. “I CSUB, going 2-4 with three “I wasn’t as nervous as I felt that we were under control. RBIs, in his first game as a thought I would be, actually,” We came out and did what we ’Runner. said Trowbridge. “Being a DH, had to do in the beginning.” CSUB received seven innings I got to sit back, relax and watch The ’Runners were also with- of solid pitching, four from sen- the first inning unfold, and I got out sophomore third baseman ior Taylor Aikenhead who also my chance in the first.” Mylz Jones, who is currently had five strikeouts and only Senior shortstop Oscar Sanay suspended for six games by the allowed two hits in an abbrevi- and freshman second baseman NCAA for an error in his paper- ated start. David Metzgar each got an RBI work. His brother, freshman “He was good, but he wasn’t with a double. Trowbridge Mahlik Jones, replaced him in really pounding the strike zone drove in two more runs with a the lineup. like he can,” said Head Coach double of his own. On Saturday, the ’Runners Bill Kernan. “I was anxious, never nervous. defeated Milwaukee again 8-3. “I wasn’t very happy with my You’re only nervous when you Gusbeth led the team with his fastball command. I fell behind don’t know what you are first career home run and two a lot of batters, but my change- doing,” said Sanay. RBIs. Sunday, CSUB complet- up was really good and they had The ’Runners would extend ed the sweep of Milwaukee, a tough time with that,” said their lead to 8-0 following an winning 9-3. Aikenhead. RBI single from Sanay in the Gusbeth and Sanay each drove The ’Runners also got three fifth and a two-RBI single from in 2 RBIs. quality innings from junior sophomore right fielder Chance CSUB will return home in a 3- James Barragan, who had three Gusbeth in the seventh. game weekend series against strikeouts and only allowed one Despite the win, the team Towson. Athlete of the Week Sophomore right fielder Chance Gusbeth was named the Western Athletic Conference Hitter of the Week. Over the weekend, Gusbeth hit .583 with a home run and six RBIs. He also scored three runs and drew two walks. He had a .917 slugging percentage and a .667 on-base percentage. Photo courtesy of CSUB Sports Information