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A California Rape Story

Here it is, this is the story everyone wants to talk about but no one wants to hear. The story of a rape victim and the Stanford Swimmer who ruined her life. If you've only scrolled past the articles and news stories at this point, you might be wondering what all the hype is about. After all, this isn't the first college rape story to hit the headlines. What makes this stand out above the rest resides in (at least) two things: the boy was given a jaw-dropping-ly light sentence (6 months + parole to be exact) and the victim (who was found unconscious) wrote an intensely moving letter to her attacker that could and should move even the toughest soul to tears. You can read the letter to yourself on Buzzfeed, or you could listen to CNN's Ashleigh Banfield read it aloud (warning: this letter includes graphic details of the attack and examination afterwards). 

Judge Aaron Persky explained the reason Brock Turner was given such a "pass" was because he believed, "a prison sentence would have a severe impact on him... I think he will not be a severe danger to others." A great deal of this leniency has been attributed to convincing done by the attacker's father who emphasized the consequences these "20 minutes of action" have already had on his son. This decision by Judge Persky and the influence of Brock Turner's father caused a storm of outrage on the internet as men, women, mothers, fathers, and rape victims alike have voiced their displeasure with this light (but legal) sentence. Fathers have written letters to the father of the attacker, Vice President Joe Biden wrote an open letter to the 23-year-old victim... everyone has their piece to say (including a few sarcastic and hilarious videos by YouTuber, Philip DeFranco, posted on his Facebook page).

Many are demanding justice after such a decision and the current pledge to remove Judge Persky from the bench is gaining steam, receiving almost a million signatures. In light of all the disgust aimed towards Brock Turner, Brock Turner's father, Judge Persky, and (for some) the entire justice system, many have flocked to the aid of the anonymous victim. This includes the cast of GIRLS whose viral video gives a powerful message about assault.

Some have been rejoicing in the recent news that this former Stanford swimmer will, in fact, receive some "real world consequences" as he has just been banned for life by USA Swimming. This means that he will not be eligible to compete in any sanctioned events, including the Olympic Trials. Perhaps some justice will be seen after all as the overemphasis on this student's swimming ability has, from the beginning, been repulsively misplaced. 

Instead of letting this story be about Brock Tuner more than it already has, we should turn our eyes to the sobering fact that this 23-year-old victim was not the first, or the last, to be placed in a situation that compromised both their dignity and sense of worth. Now that this one incident has captured the world's attention, we have the opportunity to give voice and recognition to the other victims of rape that have before been silent. 

Every 2 minutes, an American is sexually assaulted while only 6 out of every 1,000 perpetrators end up in prison. Women 18-24 experience an elevated risk of sexual violence, but they often do not report to law enforcement.

According to a 2014 report released by the U.S. government, one in five college students experience sexual assault during their college years. Here's a few more campus trends discovered by Princeton Review and College Navigator. The data sets may be discovered on edsmart.org. 

Party schools experience 600% more on-campus sexual assaults than stone-cold-sober schools. 

The least religious schools experience 3400% more on-campus sexual assaults than the most religious schools.

The most liberal student schools experience 1800% more on-campus sexual assaults than the most conservative schools.

These facts may or may not surprise you. Statistically speaking, the bravery of this 23-year-old women is rare. But, if the victim was not assaulted in public and discovered by two witnesses, would she have reported it in the first place? Would the world ever have the opportunity to hear her letter and speak out against this unjust? Or, would she end up being another generic number found somewhere on the internet, posted somewhere in an article, that a handful of people might read?

No matter the events that lead up to this tragedy-turned-internet-controversy, lives were permanently altered on that day in 2014. And if there is any lingering confusion about sexual consent, maybe you will find this British Tea video helpful. 

Image Credit for Header: Flickr/Jason Rogers *B&W edits applied*

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A Weekend Spent in San Francisco

Where to go, what to eat, & how not to be a tourist in the iconic city by the bay. 

Let's face it, San Francisco is world famous and for good reason — it is pretty dang spectacular. However, its fame and size can cause even the local to sometimes feel overwhelmed. Not only can the long to do list and even longer lines cause a headache, it can often deter visitors from witnessing the true heart of the city.

As a California native, I have traveled to San Francisco many times. By now I have seen the sights, and while they are truly amazing, during my most recent trip to the bay I wanted to witness the San Francisco the locals see and share the experience with each of you. 

Coffee is much more than a beverage, as it basically keeps me walking and talking throughout the day, so let's start there.

Elite Audio Coffee Bar

Not only does Elite Audio Coffee Bar roast top notch beans, they'll add a fun surprise to your usual coffee order by throwing on some Instagram worthy coffee art. Make sure to visit during coffee art hours (see below), come with a creative idea in mind (or let the artist choose something for you), and smile and say thank you once they've finished. The only problem with this creative spot, your coffee may just look too good to drink. 

Coffee Art Hours: Mon - Fri : 1 - 3 pm, Sat : 12 - 4 pm

The Mill

Organic, hand-crafted, fair trade coffee from Four Barrel Coffee. Combined with freshly baked whole grain bread ground by Josey Baker with a stone mill on the spot (get the name now?). Both of these aspects work together to create a unique space for quality coffee and the people who love to drink it. 

Cafe Triste 

This historic spot first opened its doors in 1956 and holds the title as the first espresso coffee house established on the West Coast — do you really need another reason to try it out? 

A few other local favorites to add to your must-try list: 

Hollow

Craftsmen & Wolves - Try the Rebel Within

Black Point Cafe

Wrecking Ball Coffee

Blue Bottle

Reveille Coffee Rosters

Chai Bar

Food is a necessity, so why not also make it a luxury?

Toast Eatery

This neighborhood favorite has two locations within the city, both of which continue draw in the local crowd. And no wonder, their menu boasts of 20 different types of egg dishes alone (including one titled the "godfather"). 

Ike's Place

A local favorite, Ike's Place was opened up on Halloween of 2007 and offers its customers a choice of 78 different sandwiches. If the variety alone doesn't convince you that this spot is a must try, then the fact that they use their secret (and soon to be patented) "Ike's Dirty Secret Sauce" a whopping three times on each sandwich should having you running to get in line. 

Tosca Cafe

Ever since I was lucky enough to spend time in Italy this past year, I jump at any chance to get my hands on authentic Italian cuisine (perhaps in the hopes that by closing my eyes, chewing three times, and taking a sip of wine I will be magically transported back to the Piazza Navona). First established in 1919, Tosca Cafe has recently revamped itself and now stands as one of San Francisco's top food destinations and a true Italian experience. 

A couple more mouthwatering options: 

Kitchen Story

Sparrow Bar and Kitchen

Bars & Brewery's, because as the saying goes: No good story ever started with someone eating a salad. 

Anchor Brewing Company

What's more San Franciscan than the California gold rush you ask? Not much. Anchor Brewing Company offers its customers a chance to connect with the long history of San Francisco as the brewery's origins date all the way back to 1849 when German brewer Gottlieb Brekle first arrived in the city. 

To learn more about the brewery's past and enrich your visit click here.

Amelie Wine Bar

It wouldn't be right to visit the city and not try out a wine bar, after all, San Francisco is smack in the middle of wine country. This particular place boasts a large list of wines and champagnes from both local and foreign origins. Whether you're craving a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, a Pinot Noir from France, or a Malbec from Argentina, you'll be sure to find what you're looking for at Amelie.

Bourbon and Branch

Reminiscent of the 1920's, Bourbon and Branch offers you a chance to step into the days of prohibition — that is, if you can find it. That's right, today Bourbon and Branch continues to operate as a Speakeasy, just as it did (on the same location) over 90 years ago. 

Tip: Be sure to follow the house rules as well as make a reservation in advance in order to be allowed into an especially secret room inside the speakeasy. As for the address, well, you'll have to find that one for yourself.

Two more places to spice up your evening plans in the city:

Playland Bar

Smuggler's Cove

We all know about Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39, but don't forget to explore the many ways SF locals choose to spend their time.

Yoga to the People

Start your day the right way by spending your morning in the mission with Yoga to the People. Not only does the studio come with a fantastic view of the city, the practice is donation based, so pay what you can (a true lifesaver for a broke college student such as myself). 

Tip: Craftsmen and Wolves is located just two blocks away. So head on over and grab some guilt-free coffee and food (after all, you just worked out — you deserve it).

Mission Dolores Park

While you're in the Mission District, why not walk over and enjoy a picnic with friends or a good book by yourself at Mission Dolores Park? You'll not only experience the beauty of nature (a nice break when you're in a city), but you'll also witness firsthand some local color (not always good, but usually entertaining). Bonus: It's free!

Alamo Square

Located directly across from the Painted Ladies, this park will have you singing the Full House theme song the entire time you're there.

Tip: Mojo Bicycle Cafe is located just a few minutes away and is well worth the short walk.

San Francisco Museums

The De Young, Legion of Honor, SF MOMA, and California Academy of Sciences are just a few of the many museums the locals of San Francisco enjoy. While they will most likely be busy, they are busy for a reason and worth any wait you may have.

Conservatory of Flowers

A beautiful greenhouse and botanical garden that houses rare and exotic plants, located within Golden Gate Park.

Tip: Visit in the late summer in order to experience the Dahlia Garden. 

San Francisco Beaches

It wouldn't be right to not mention at least a few of San Francisco's spectacular beaches, this is California after all.

Baker Beach

Go for a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge (one that's farther away from the crowds).

Fort Funston Beach

200 foot tall bluffs overlook the Pacific Ocean, giving you a great spot for some whale watching during the winter months.

Ocean Beach

A long stretch of beach that provides the perfect place for a sunset walk and sea glass hunting.  

Other places & activities to add to your SF To Do list:

Thrift Shop in Haight-Ashbury

Experience the Lands End Labyrinth

Visit some of the many art galleries in SoMa

Picnic at the Palace of Fine Arts

Hike Lands End Trail

Stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden

Let's face it, in the end we all want a good Instagram picture.

Grove High School

While the Princess of Genovia has long since left the building, it's no less amusing to grab a photo in front of Grove High School. Fun Fact: The site used to represent Grove High School in the Princess Diaries is actually someone's private residence!

Grove High School: 2601 Lyon Street

Princess Mia's House: 724 Brazil Avenue

Clarion Alley

Add some color to your newsfeed by taking a few shots in front of the numerous murals that line the walls of Clarion Alley.

Billy Goat Hill

This spot overlooking the city offers both spectacular views and photo ops to prove it. Bonus: There's a swing!

Marin Headlands

Get that iconic Golden Gate Bridge photo you know you've always wanted. 

Top of the De Young Museum

Enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view of the city. 

Something to help you remember San Francisco by.

I am both a minimalist and a book lover, I also hate tacky souvenirs and think that adding a new piece to my library is one of life's greatest joys. So of course, I will recommend that you grab a book from City Lights Bookstore to help you remember your time spent in the city (maybe a book about San Francisco?). 

Finally, I would like to give a huge shout-out to all the SF locals (you know who you are) for showing me your city and making sure I saw it right.

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