Clarion 9/30/09

www.theclariononline.com

The Bellydance Superstars performed “The Art of Bellydance,” at the Citrus College Haugh Performing Arts Center.

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Clarion Citrus

College

Wednesday, September 30, 2009 Volume LXIII Issue 3

A First Amendment newspaper

On-campus fight leads to arrests, charges, hearings Dustin Call Clarion News Editor An on-campus disciplinary hearing was held, Sept. 29, for at least one of two students who were arrested for fighting on school grounds on Thursday, Sept. 17.

Matthew Rice and Jason Baker were apprehended and then arrested

by Glendora Police near the Campus Center Mall, where Club Rush was taking place, shortly before noon.

According to Tony Giannone, campus security supervisor, the altercation was a result of a disagreement over speaking about another individual in a disapproving way.

Rice, a sophomore, is a wide receiver for the Owls’ football team. He was charged with misdemeanor battery, but was cited out by police on the same day.

Baker was also charged with misdemeanor battery, along with a felony charge for criminal threats. Bail for him was set at $50,000.

Eric Rabitoy, dean of physical and natural sciences, was the administrator on duty who responded to the scene. He could not, however, share any details about the incident.

As a result of the incident, Rice was suspended for 10 school days during which two football games took place that he was not allowed to play in.

Owls’ head football coach Ron Ponciano initially said he would not be issuing any additional discipline to Rice. He feels that the charges facing Rice are irrelevant since he was defending himself. Jody Wise, dean of physical education, would not comment on the issue.

Rice’s suspension has now been lifted and sports information coordinator Andrew Wheeler said Ponciano and Wise “will make a game day decision on whether or not there will be further suspension from the football team.”

No one has confirmed whether Baker also received a suspension or an on-campus disciplinary hearing. An off-campus hearing was, however, held for him at the Los Angeles County Courthouse in West Covina.

No information has been obtained or received concerning the outcome of the county court hearing or a possible disciplinary hearing on campus.

Dustin Call can be reached at clarion.news@gmail.com

Inside:

Chris Lopez Citrus College Clarion Jason Baker is apprehended by Glendora police officers after fighting with Owls football player Matthew Rice in the Campus Center Mall during Club Rush on Thursday, Sept. 17. Baker was later charged with a felony for criminal threats. See additional photo, Page 3.

Budget means hard times ahead for education system Andrew Vasquez Clarion Editor In Chief The financial challenges ahead are many for Citrus College students, as well as for the entire California public school system. The uncertainty includes the possibility of mid-year cuts, further shortfalls in the property tax revenue and other revenue streams, and structural imbalance in the state budget.

Mirroring the mood of the current economic climate in California, the status of the college budget is bleak, according to the CitrusCollege Superintendent/President

Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. “There is no hope for an increase in funds anytime soon,” said Carol Horton, vice president of financial and administrative services.

“When the state is broke, we are broke. There is just no money.”

Public colleges and universities have been hit with significant cuts in state funding, and some forms of income for the college Citrus College have been greatly reduced.

By the middle of the 2008-09 fiscal year the Cost of Living Adjustment was eliminated completely. The state of California had reduced its funding to community colleges by $4 million and deferred

more than $340 million in cash payments.

“We were fortunate, due to a strong ending balance, that we were able to withstand all of the deferments and be able to make payroll each month,” Perri said.

By the end of the 2008-09 year the apportionment, that is, allocated money from the state general fund guaranteed for community colleges, had been cut by $41 million, the property tax shortfall reached $32.1 million and the state had an additional $115 million in deferred payments to the community colleges.

“These cuts are what we really

base next year’s budget off of,” Horton said.

According to Horton, the college was only funded by the state for 11,974 full-time equivalent students, or the how many students are taking 12 units or more, however the college had more than 13,000 FTES last year.

“I don’t think we can help ourselves,” she said. “I think every dean realizes how many students are actually out there waiting and begging to get into classes.”

“Our census for fall has shown that we have 102 percent fill-rate

See BUDGET/page 3

Election race begins for BOT candidates Dustin Call Clarion News Editor

Andrew Vasquez Clarion Editor In Cheif

Ashley Broussard Kristen Lacuesta Clarion Staff Writers Four candidates for the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees shared ideas on serving students, weathering budget cuts and going green at a public forum in the Center for Innovation on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

The candidates are running to become the representatives for Area 1, which covers parts of Azusa, Cov-

ina, Glendora, and Irwindale, and Area 3, which covers parts of Duarte, Arcadia, Azusa, and Monrovia.

Both of the two available seats are currently filled by Gary Woods, of Area 1, and Edward Ortell, of Area 3, both of whom have served on the board for many years and are once again running for re-election.

The opponents are Richard Lugo, a retired aerospace employee who is running for the Area 1 seat, and David Hooper, a construction consultant and Citrus alumnus who is running for the Area 3 seat.

At the forum, candidates were asked both pre-issued and on-the-

See BOT/page 3

Life pg. 5 Sports pg. 11 A&E pg. 12

Andrew Vasquez Citrus College Clarion Area 1 candidates Richard Lugo (left) and Gary Woods answer questions about their bids for election to the Board of Trustees of the Citrus Community College District at an open forum on Sept. 29. Woods currently serves on the board while Lugo is seeking his first term.

Opinions pg. 14 Editorials pg. 15

September 30, 2009

News

Citrus College Clarion Page 2

News Briefs Campus Wire APU experiences possible swine flu outbreak, sick students isolated Over the past four weeks, nearly 40 students attending Azusa Pacific University may have contracted the H1N1 virus, otherwise known as swine flu, a school official said Tuesday, Sept. 29.

According to Dr. Todd Emerson of the Student Health Center at APU, all students who tested positive for any type of influenza have been isolated in places on and off campus until they are fever-free for 24 hours.

About 10-15 students have tested positive for influenza A, of which H1N1 is a type.

With APU being in such close proximity of Citrus College, a fear is that the virus could spread to this campus.

Citrus College Superintendent/President Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. has taken all necessary precautions in case of an outbreak and wants students to know there are ways to prevent contracting the virus, the most important being to practice good health habits.

Citrus staff members are committed to the students’ health and continue to provide updated information regarding the matter.

Special masks are available at the Health Center along with hand sanitizer, which is also available at various public locations throughout campus.

Updates and information concerning swine flu at Citrus College can be found on the school’s home webpage, www.citruscollege.edu.

Student assaulted at bus stop A female Citrus College student was the victim of an attempted kidnapping while waiting at a bus stop on the northwest corner of Foothill Boulevard and Citrus Avenue around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20.

The victim was reportedly punched and knocked out by one of the assailants. Upon waking up, she was able to fight off two attackers before any serious events occurred, causing both suspects to flee.

The victim described the assailants as a white male and a Hispanic male, both wearing ski masks. There is a possibility of a third unidentified suspect said to be driving the white full-sized van they attempted to force her into.

Azusa Police as well as the Citrus College security staff are working closely together to find these suspects, and are open to any information people may have.

Tony Giannone, campus security supervisor, advises everyone to always walk in pairs and to call campus security at (626) 912-8611 about any more supicious activity they see.

Local Local accident-prone intersection will receive new traffic light Plans are currently in the works to address the high level of accidents at a local intersection.

The intersection of Citrus Avenue and Baseline Road in Azusa has had 12 reported accidents in the last 12 months, according to police records. Six of these accidents were cars being broadsided. Eight injuries have been reported from these accidents.

The intersection gets much of its traffic from students at Citrus College and Azusa Pacific University, especially since freeway on- and offramps are nearby.

The city of Azusa has plans to install a new $50,000 traffic signal light to replace the old one, which currently does not have lights for the turning lanes.

Source-Daniel Tedford, SGV Tribune

Beyond

Courtney Mitchell Citrus College Clarion Crews work on the demolition of the old TA building on Thursday, Sept. 24. The building was used to house the automotive program.

All-campus forum to prepare school for approaching re-accreditation evaluation Shawnique Anderson Clarion Correspondent In preparation for Citrus’ re-accreditation, an all-campus accreditation forum will be held Sept. 30 in the community room of the Center for Innovation at 2:45 p.m.

It has been six years since Citrus College has undergone a complete accreditation review process. The college community is now preparing for an official visit by the accreditation team during the week of Oct. 12.

“The forum’s purpose is to inform the whole campus community… about what’s coming up, what the selfstudy document says, what we think the important points are, what recommendations we have for the institution and then what is going to happen when the self-study team comes,” explained Jeanne Hamilton, vice president of Student Services, cochair for the accreditation self-study process, and accreditation liaison.

Accreditation, according to www.communitycollegereview.com, is one of the main elements that differentiate colleges’ level of scholarly quality.

Citrus received re-affirmation of its full accreditation in January 2004 and filed a midterm report with the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges in October 2006. Citrus College is accredited by the ACCJC of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Accreditation is an essential factor in a student’s decision on which college or university to attend. In choosing to attend an accredited institution, students can be reassured that they

will be receiving a quality education recognized by other colleges and employers.

If a college or university is not accredited, its students may not be able to participate in either federal or state financial aid programs.

Another disadvantage of attending a non-accredited school is possible disqualification from employee-sponsored tuition reimbursement or assistance. Some employers who offer tuition assistance will not reimburse working students if they enroll in a non-accredited institution.

Transferring to an institute of higher education may also present a problem for students who have attended a non-accredited institution.

The prerequisite units or degrees acquired may not transfer appropriately, which may result in years of wasted time.

Full accreditation is an affirmation that a college provides a quality of education that the general public has the right to expect and that the educational community recognizes.

It is a voluntary process of selfregulation and peer review adopted by the educational community. Institutions of higher education voluntarily enter into associations to evaluate each other in accord with an institution’s stated goals.

Non-accredited institutions must be able to demonstrate that they possess certain “characteristics of quality” before they are allowed to become members of the association of accredited institutions.

Students, who seek to pursue professional careers, but have attended a non-accredited school, run the risk of being overlooked as employers may

select a candidate who holds an accredited degree instead.

Professor of Language Arts Roberta Eisel, faculty co-chair for the accreditation self-study process, explained that “each of the subcommittees had faculty, administrators, managers, staff, students, in some cases board members involved, and then they branched out and they interviewed people all around the campus, so if you look at that entire process, you’re looking at…at least a couple hundred people who have been involved in this self-study document in one way or another.”

A set of universal standards of practice for all community colleges, are examined in six basic areas: core functions, ethical standards, organization and administration, human resources, physical facilities, and new technologies.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, the purpose of accreditation is to certify that the education given by institutions meet each of the six national standards of quality.

Citrus College’s Institutional SelfStudy Report 2009 states that, among those students who clearly articulated their educational goals in their applications for admission to Citrus College, many hope to receive a two-year associate degree or transfer to a fouryear institution.

A full copy of the Self-Study Report can be viewed at www.citruscollege.edu/accreditation/Pages/SelfStu dyReport/aspx.

Shawnique Anderson can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Task force to colleges: Treat betting like booze LAS VEGAS — Colleges and universities should take more steps to curb problem gambling by piggybacking outreach efforts onto campaigns against alcohol and drug abuse, a national gambling task force said Tuesday, Sept. 29.

The Task Force on College Gambling Policies said in a report that schools should treat gambling as a health issue, and establish policies to restrict wagers on campuses and treat students who develop addictions.

While nearly half of college students surveyed reported gambling during the past year, a 2005 report shows only 22 percent of colleges have written gambling policies, said the group, which was established last year by the Cambridge Health Alliance and funded by the National Center for Responsible Gaming.

Source-Oskar Garcia, Associated Press

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News

September 30, 2009

Citrus College Clarion Page 3

BOT: Candidates dicscuss personal visions, policies Cont. from page 1 spot questions concerning their reasons for running, stances on issues, and what their plans are for the college’s future.

Elections will be held on Nov. 3 for all registered voters living within the district boundaries.

CANDIDATE PROFILES: AREA 1 GARY WOODS Gary Woods has served the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees since 1982, and has been an advocate for education and California community colleges throughout his career.

Throughout his years as a member of the Citrus College BOT he has held all board offices as well as several presidential terms.

He has been instrumental in several major events in the history of Citrus College. For example, he supported the 2004 campaign for the Measure G bond, which provided the campus with $120 million to implement construction of new buildings and renovation of existing facilities.

He is also a full-time professor at Pasadena City College.

“I never intended to be a teacher, but education has been such a big part of my life that it just seemed like a natural fit,” Woods said. “I have always liked teaching at a community college because I have taught such a wide variety of students.

“Students from 18 to even 90, a professor from Cal Tech to homeless people, my classes have always been diverse.”

Woods holds a bachelor of science degree in accounting and a master of science degree in education from the University of Southern California, a juris doctorate degree from Southwestern University School of Law, and a certificate from the Institute of International and Comparative Law at the University of San Diego School of Law. He is also a practicing law attorney in Pasadena. However, teaching is what he said gets him up in the morning.

“Education has always been a priority in my personal life,” Woods said. “Even though it was not my

original profession, it has become a dominant part my life and the part I most enjoy.”

Looking to the future, Woods sees hard times ahead for Citrus College.

“The big issue is the budget of 2010 because it is going to be a worse year than this is,” Woods said.

“The budget problems are not going away, and if I am re-elected I want to make sure we protect both the full-time and part-time faculty, as well as the students.

“I see community colleges as a way to give everyone a chance to be successful. Education is extremely expensive for many students, and if I can help a student get an interest in their education and finish, I have done my job.”

RICHARD LUGO Richard James Lugo is a retired aerospace employee running for a position on the Board of Trustees that has been held by the same person for almost 30 years.

He is running for a spot as a representative for Area 1, which covers the cities of Azusa, Covina, Glendora, and Irwindale.

Lugo, a life-long resident of Azusa, graduated from Citrus College 20 years to the day of graduating from Azusa High School.

He has worked for a publishing company, coached Little League baseball, helped with youth football programs, and is currently owner of Azusa Youth Boxing Club.

Lugo is running against Gary Woods, an incumbent who has been on the board since 1982.

Lugo said he would like to “bring a fresh outlook to this campus and hopefully move things forward into the 21st Century,” meaning he would like to see “more preparation for students in the growing green competitive sector.”

A priority he believes the college should focus on is the abilities of counselors to educate students about tutors, libraries, and resources available to them on campus.

Looking to the future, Lugo said the main challenge facing Citrus is the cutbacks caused by the state’s budget problems.

“We need to be progressive,” Lugo said.

Andrew Vasquez Citrus College Clarion Edward Ortell (left) and his opponent David Hooper, answer questions posed by faculty president Kathy Bakhit and the audience as each of them promotes their candidacy for the Area 3 seat.

For example, he suggested a solution is to “seek funding by looking for stimulus dollars.”

Although Lugo doesn’t have the trustee experience of a 27-year board member, he said his involvement with the community and understanding of youth will help him as he learns how the board functions as a group.

CANDIDATE PROFILES: AREA 3 EDWARD ORTELL Edward Ortell is the longestserving member of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, having been in office nearly four decades.

Ortell is a retired professor from Pasadena City College, where he served as president of the faculty union.

His educational degrees include a bachelor of science from the University of Dubuque in Iowa, a master of arts from Cal State Los Angeles, a master of science from the State University of New York, and a doctorate from U.S. International University, San Diego.

“I’ve always been involved in education and teaching, so it’s sort of my first love,” Ortell said.

A former president of the board, Ortell has played a key role in the

evolution of Citrus College, the oldest community college in Los Angeles County, into a modern institution.

Much of this evolution is due to Measure G, a $120 million board measure passed by community voters during his time in office.

Ortell feels that one of Citrus’ strengths is possessing equipment, buildings and surroundings that are conducive to learning.

He said it is vital for the college to maintain excellence and fulfill its important role of “being ready and prepared to be a part of the [economic] recovery.”

“If anyone can do that, Citrus can,” Ortell said.

Ortell said he values the connection between Citrus College and the local community it serves. He has been working to maintain that relationship and has even been actively involved in petitioning for the extension of the Metro Goldline to Citrus.

Ortell said that his job is to serve the students.

“In my mind that’s what we’re here for,” he said. Ortell said he wants to continue serving the students and, especially with large state budget cuts to education, make sure that Citrus is able to “keep the cuts as far away from the classroom as possible.”

DAVID HOOPER David Hooper, an Azusa resident, is a Citrus College alumnus.

Through the years he has been involved in the community, especially Area 3.

He is a construction consultant and has helped create new baseball fields and parking structures. He said he has planted many trees throughout the city of Azusa with Mayor Joe Rocha, and that he volunteers at several churches of different denominations. He is a member of the non-profit organization Habitat For Humanity.

If elected, Hooper said he would promote change. One of his goals, he said, is to partner with the community to increase green jobs and to help prepare students to work in the green technology sector.

He also plans to increase the number of students transferring to four-year universities. He said he also wants to aggressively seek funding for Citrus students in light of the recent state budget cuts. He said that his focus is on the students, and he plans to help them in any way he can.

Contributors to this article can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

BUDGET: Challenges continue Cont. from page 1

Dustin Call Citrus College Clarion Owls’ wide receiver Matthew Rice is loaded into a squad car by Glendora police officers upon being arrested for fighting on campus on Sept. 17.

for our classes,” Horton said.

“Every seat and every class is basically overloaded.”

For the current academic year, Horton said that the state of California has yet again reduced the FTES amount for Citrus College to 11,552 for the 20092010 academic year.

As far as the budget cuts for the 2009-2010 academic year, there has been a reduction to the general fund of $120 million, shortfalls of $553 million in property taxes, $21 million in student fees, all growth funds have been eliminated and a $333 million cut to the categorical programs.

Concerning President Barack Obama’s stimulus for the community college system, it is ex-

pected that California will only receive $37 million to cover the shortfall cuts to the categorical programs, but it is unknown when exactly those funds will come to the community colleges.

“Our budget is never really the final budget. The state can still take the funds we budget for,” Perri said.

“I appreciate everyone’s willingness to roll up their sleeves during this hard time,” Perri said. “If there any more sacrifices, we will weather them together as a family.”

Andrew Vasquez can be reached at clarion_eic@yahoo.com

Citrus College Clarion

Life

September 30, 2009

Dustin Call Clarion News Editor From my own experience, I have found that, more often than not, sequels to anything tend to be not as good as their originals.

Knowing this, when I started to think about what my subject matter would be for my second column, I realized that I had no ideas. I only knew that the second column had to be just as good, if not better, than the first.

Have you ever had one of those moments when you realize for the first time that you have a habit or something that you tend to do a lot?

Once I determined that I had no ideas for this second column, I

Page 5

Life Editor Courtney Mitchell - ccclarion@hotmail.com

decided to ask my wife for suggestions. Upon deciding this, I realized, for the first time, that whenever I am out of ideas, my next mental step is deciding to ask my wife what she thinks.

Now some people might see this as a sign of weakness on my part. I beg to differ.

When I was single, I, of course, made all of my own decisions without consulting anyone, just like any other young single person. Often times I made the right choice, but often times I didn’t.

Once I got married, I quickly realized that my wife is smarter than me. (All of you men who are married know what I am talking about.) If my wife and I are debating something, and I am absolutely sure that I am 100 percent correct, most of the time I eventually realize that I am wrong.

So, naturally, the smart thing to do on my part would be to ask my wife for advice, that way I have a much better chance of making the right choice.

As I shared in my first column, my wife was the one who helped me get back on the right academic track when I was heading down another path that would not have made me happy. She has always been there to set me straight and fill my mental gaps.

Ironically, this column was her idea to start with.

It is so comforting to be married to someone as intelligent as she is. I definitely married up. I am depending upon her to get me through intermediate algebra this semester. Math is far from being a

“

Once I got married, I quickly realized that my wife is smarter than me.

(All of you men who are married know what I am talking about.)

”

Dustin Call

strong point of mine, but my wife is brilliant at math — she wants to study engineering at UC Berkeley.

She is also great at being supportive.

As I am coming closer to transferring to a four-year university, I spend a lot of time researching which schools have the best journalism programs.

I enjoy traveling, so I like to consider schools that are somewhat far away. Each time I find a school I really like, I tell her about it. Then we start imagining what it would be like to live wherever the school is located.

Before you know it, I have my

mind made up that that is where I want to go, so she starts getting used to the idea and mentally plans on being there.

Then I find another school that I like, and we go through the whole process again. (I’ve done this to her at least three times.) At this point, she has given up getting used to anything I suggest because she knows that I am just going to change my mind again.

The other day I discovered the great program at the University of Washington, a big switch from my previous musings about Northwestern University near Chicago. I asked her if she could live in Seattle, and she texted me back: “Lol. I’ll adjust myself to anywhere. I like adventure as much as you do. That’s why I like you. =)” What a relief to hear.

If I were still single, I could go anywhere in the world and be able to call it home. Since I am married, I feel that I need to consider schools in areas that would be satisfactory for my wife and, eventually, children. Knowing that I have her support in any decision I make, especially what school I transfer to, is very settling.

Dustin Call can be reached at clarion.news@gmail.com

Page 6 Citrus College Clarion

Courtney Mitchell Clarion Life Editor When I started this column, I was hesitant to share my college experiences.

As much as I wanted the upper classmen to relate to the new freshmen, I didn’t want to share personal stories.

I only wanted to encourage beginning college students to strive for a successful education.

But it is the personal stories that make us relatable.

Some college freshmen are barely 18 and just out of high school.

Others have waited a few years before starting their education.

I, however, have a unique story, a story I was reluctant to share with readers.

The more students I meet, the more I understand that many have a story like my own.

I didn’t spend my first semester at Citrus, nor at any other community college.

I was determined to graduate from Cal State Long Beach,

Life where I majored in industrial design.

I ended up spending just three semesters there before deciding to leave.

I lived in the dorms on campus, had a roommate, and ate in the dining commons; I thought I was having the ultimate college experience.

I was living with 10 girls in a suite on campus.

We each had a roommate in our bedrooms, but we had a common room equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and study lounge.

We celebrated holidays and birthdays in that room.

Not only did we study in there, but also entertained guests.

If we weren’t playing a movie or sharing secrets, we all hung out in this common area.

I was so focused on making friends and living the dream that I completely ignored the real reason why I was even there in the first place: to get an education.

Three semesters and two roommates later, I willingly left CSULB. I had realized at some point in my last semester that I was unhappy with the way I was approaching my education.

Whether it was my roommates or the school in general, I’m still not sure what the problem factor

September 30, 2009

“

I was so focused on making friends and living the dream that I completely ignored the real reason why I was even there in the first place: to get an education.

”

was.

Looking back on my time in Long Beach, there were a lot of factors on my plate: school, work, boyfriend, friends, family.

I did know that I had to leave everything behind and start over.

At first, I was hesitant to start over at Citrus.

While most of my high school friends were away at universities, pursing their dreams, I was still at a community college.

But coming to Citrus was the best decision I have ever made for myself.

It gave me a chance to pursue my passions, while making up classes from my previous semesters.

When someone says, “I changed my major four times,” it

doesn’t necessarily mean they were indecisive or any less passionate about their education.

Most people need to take the time to figure out what it is they want to do.

Take an art class or a business class; classes that will challenge you or pique your interest might surprise you later.

I took a communications class at CSULB titled “Essentials of Argumentation.”

Translation: Speech and debate.

Public speaking was a huge fear of mine, as it is with most people.

But through this class, I learned that the communications department is where I belong.

Whether it is advertising, public relations, or journalism, I had finally found my calling.

Now entering my fourth year of higher education, I am finally on track to reaching my goals.

By the time I transfer to a four-year university, I know that most of my high school friends will have already graduated and started their careers.

But whether it takes you four years to graduate or seven, it’s OK to take the time to figure out what you want to do.

Courtney Mitchell can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Life

September 30, 2009

Citrus College Clarion Page 7

Don’t hate, checkmate Heaven Sanders

Clarion Staff Writer Three humans from the Citrus College Chess Club recently competed against 16 robots.

The competition, which pitted flesh-and-blood players against robotic chess pieces as large as two feet tall—took place in August at the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana. The humans won, Citrus students will be delighted to know.

So, other than battling against huge chess pieces, what exactly is so interesting about chess, and why would other students want to join the club?

To many people, the thought of playing chess brings on a big yawn.

For others, it can be just as exciting as jumping on that roller coaster with a 600-foot drop.

“I got involved with chess because the game itself is fascinating.

Instead of using physical prowess

like football or basketball, chess uses more brainpower and cunning than its physical counterparts,” said Michael Chen, vice president of the club.

The game also has tremendous appeal for Chess Club president Carlos Esparza. Esparza has two chess heroes: chess prodigy Bobby Fischer and his father.

“He deserves most of the credit for teaching me the game and for always encouraging me to learn more,” he said of his father.

In fact, virtually all of the club members say they learned to play at home when they were young.

Obviously, chess is a game that has been passed down for generations.

The game of chess originated in India in the 5th or 6th century. The game as we know it has been played since the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, players have used the same pieces—eight pawns, two bishops, two knights, two rooks, a king and a queen—in countless

permutations.

“What fascinates me are the endless moves one can make to beat an opponent,” Esparza said.

“Chess is fun and, though some may find it hard to believe, it can be addictive.

Chess is a historic strategy game played-one-on-one. Recently, Peter Shikli and Karan Kamdar of RoboTeamX created a set of robotic pieces with some remarkable abilities.

The robots communicate with each other by sending messages back and forth, allowing every piece to know exactly where the other is and what moves are available.

Kamdar said he hopes the oversized, super-smart pieces—which call to mind the game of Wizard’s Chess played in the first Harry Potter book and movie—will help engage young people in the game.

Chess Club faculty Adviser Brian Waddington, professor of history, is not as avid a player as some of the club members, but he

Time management skills Shawnique Anderson Clarion Staff Writer

College life is much different than that of high school.

While high school students follow the same schedule and see the same teachers and classmates every day, college students’ schedules indisputably vary from day to day.

Since most classes meet only once or twice a week, and may require lab hours in addition to the lecture, students do not always see familiar faces around campus.

In essence, high school students have been given a GPS road map while college students are left to fend for themselves.

Guidance counselors give orientations and general planning guidelines to be successful but it is up to each student to effectively manage their time to avoid being overwhelmed and burned out.

Effective time management begins before the semester does.

Hopefully, one has already done so, seeing how the semester is already well underway.

Be sure that you are reserving time each week for breaks, meals, homework, extra studying, social activities, and of course, rest.

It is also important that students do not neglect their personal responsibilities like family, work, and chores.

This may seem like a lot in one week, and it is, but if each task is allotted the appropriate amount of time and you stick to your plan, it will work wonders.

If there are many events scheduled throughout the week, carry a planner or use your smart phone (iPhone, Blackberry, etc.) to note all assignments, tests, quizzes, deadlines, and all other important dates.

It is essential to prioritize each week.

At the top of each week, use bullets or time slots to list each entry on your calendar.

Begin with the most difficult and time consuming assignments, then

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services follow those with assignments that thinker, and a person who can eascan be completed fairly easily and ily explain things. quickly.

Students are more likely to be It is very important to learn your organized while and after particilimits; take note of any missed pating in a study group. tasks that are habitual week after A study group can be your moweek. tivation if you begin to slack off or If you notice this happening in lose focus. one particular area, you should reGroup members can be very enarrange your schedule to have that couraging, and you will find yourparticular task at the top. self encouraged as well as offering One easy tip to remember is to encouragement. complete one task at a time, start to If you give your study group a finish. name, it will promote team pride Being task oriented will help you and a sense of unity. keep and clear and focused mind; If you are having trouble formtry not to procrastinate. ing a study group, go to your class Procrastination is one of the top a few minutes early and see if there reasons college students fail to suc- are any classmates who might be inceed. terested.

I was once labeled a chronic proLast but not least, as a college crastinator: I wouldn’t RSVP for student, always create and allow parties, put gas in my car until the yourself time for family, friends, las minute, and paid my bills only and social activities. when a 48-hour notice came in the Time management is a skill that mail. will not only help you while you are I still struggle with this but over in college, but as you begin life as a time it has become much better. working adult with a family.

Although each student’s learning style will differ, research shows that study groups can be a great help for students.

Your study group she be comShawnique Anderson posed of students with different can be reached at learning styles: a good note-taker, ccclarion@hotmail.com an analytical studier, an imaginative

The Chess Club faced off against a robotic chessboard at the Discovery Science Center in August. is most interested in the student players.

“I do like chess, but I really became adviser so the club would be able to continue,” Waddington said.

“Not only is chess an ancient game, but, as it was described to me, it’s the only game that doesn’t involve luck, Waddington said.

Students who have the skill, the craft or the cunning to play may join the group, which meets twice weekly (Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3 to 4:30 p.m.) in the Campus

Center Conference Room.

For more information on the Chess Club, visit http://citruscollegechess.proboards.com.

For more information on RoboTeamX, you can go to www.chessrobots.com or www.roboteamx.com.

Heaven Sanders can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Page 8 Citrus College Clarion

Life

September 30, 2009

DBNQVT! VOJUZ Every semester, students from Citrus College have the opportunity to study abroad in different countries.

What most students don’t realize is that every semester, students from different countries study here at Citrus. This semester, Citrus is hosting more than 100 international students.

Different worlds, one community Courtney Mitchell Clarion Life Editor Every student on campus has either been to a Dodger game, watched an episode of “The Simpsons,”or eaten hamburgers at their last meal.

So what? We are Americans living in Southern California. It’s what we do.

But not everyone on campus is as familiar with American culture as we are.

There are more than 100 international students this semester from more than 40 countries.

They might never have been to a professional baseball game, or

read “The Great Gatsby” in high school, or seen “Titanic.”

But they are in your classes and sit next to you every week, learning the same subjects as you.

However, they have overcome unique hurdles to study at Citrus as an international student.

These obstacles include several applications, a series of tests, and having the required finances.

In addition, they must get permission from their embassy, and then promise to return when their studies are complete.

And while students here pay $26 per unit, international students pay $246 per unit.

“The number comes from what the funding breaks down to,” Coe

Lamoureux, International Student Program supervisor, said.

When international students first arrive, they have an orientation to introduce them to the campus.

They are taken on a campus tour to familiarize them with buildings, offices, and services.

As part of the contract with Citrus, international students are not allowed to have any jobs outside of campus, but there are several job opportunities designed for them.

“The student workers are extremely helpful; they help break that language barrier,” said student worker Paige Miyabe That is crucial because communication is the greatest challenge faced by international students.

Above: Jung Jun Young takes a break from headphones and homework to spell check his essay on his Nintendo DS. Several other students like Jung also use computer programs to help them translate.

Far right: Rui Kobayashi and Ai Kataoka frequently study and hang out in the International Student Office.

“They are insecure and afraid to put themselves out there; afraid to do group work,” Miyabe said.

Although the international students have help adjusting to the American college lifestyle, they have a hard time getting acquainted with fellow students.

“Citrus is a very nice place, but we have a hard time making friends [in our classes],” Kahei Kato, an international student from Japan said.

All students are invited to join International Friendship Club, a club that unites international students and American students.

They engage in activities such as baseball games and movie nights to help mainstream international students.

If one cannot join the International Friendship Club, approaching the international students and being friendly is greatly appreciated by them.

It is incredibly difficult to make friends, but being an international student in an unfamiliar county is even harder.

While they have the support from each other, international students appreciate when American peers reach out to them.

Courtney Mitchell can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

My American experience so far Kazue Kate Fujii Clarion Staff Writer Almost one year has passed since I came to the United States from Japan.

I’ve picked up a lot about American culture during my short time here.

In Japan, I was a disc jockey before deciding that it was not working for me anymore.

I was suffering from depression.

So, my mother suggested that I go abroad to see a “new world.”

I had never been out of Japan before, so for me, America was the new world.

I’m 28 years old, so this decision to stay in California was a gamble for me.

Actually, I had been studying English in school for about seven years, but English education is horrible in Japan.

Most people study only grammar and reading without speaking the language.

Therefore, they can’t speak English well, even though they can understand written English.

When I first arrived, I shared an apartment in Azusa with a Japanese friend. Many Mexican people live in Azusa, so I made many Mexican friends. They are so kind and cheer-

ful, so I learned a lot of English from them.

At Citrus College, there are many students everywhere, but it is not easy to make friends. Most students don’t spend time hanging around after class. They might have part-time jobs or something else to do, so they are busy.

Generally speaking, Asian people love to gather and socialize with each other.

I really want to make friends with my classmates, but when I try to talk to them, they usually just walk out of the classroom.

What I really want to ask them is “What do you think about interna-

tional students?” This fall semester, more than 100 international students are enrolled at Citrus College.

Looking back to last year, I was so nervous in every class. Everyone around me spoke English so fluently, and I couldn’t understand 70 percent of what they said. Everyone looked so cool and blasé to me.

When I spoke to them in broken English, they usually said “Huh?” with raised eyebrows, and that response broke my heart.

Gradually, I became afraid to speak English. I thought nobody would understand. Now, after months of practice, I have chipped away my fear.

I am becoming used to speaking English. I still feel nervous in class when I speak English, but I hope I can bring some international students and Americans together.

They can learn a lot from each other.

I’ve picked up a lot of American culture. I also have become fond of going to hamburger shops.

I’ve picked up a few pounds, too, but maybe that’s part of the American experience.

Kazue Kate Fujii can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Life

September 30, 2009

Citrus College Clarion Page 9

International Friendship Club

First meeting: Oct 1 @ 5 p.m.

International Student Office (located on the 2nd floor of the ED building)

CAMPUS

CULTURE CoLLAGE

JAPANESE NEW YEAR “Oshogutsu is the biggest holiday in Japan. We celebrate the New Year by getting together with each other.”

— Kazuyuki Kinjo

CHINESE DISHES “We eat a lot of Kosher.

Everything is cooked and fried.

There aren’t many saladeaters.”

— Stephanie www.latimes.com Song

Citrus College brings a variety of cultures together on campus. The Clarion would like to share the individuality of some of them.

INDIAN TRADITIONS In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, elephants are seen as symbolizing a strong mind and calmness. www.goworldtravel.com

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL Although baseball originated from other countries, it has become a McClatchy-Tribune Media Services beloved American ITALIAN CUISINE past time for Italy is known for their risotto or generations. pasta, as well as their traditional deep dish pizza that is loved by so many.

www.goworldtravel.com

KOREAN SHOPPING “There are two kinds of malls, one of which is open all night. Some only open at midnight and on the weekends, we go there to shop, go bowling, and play computer games.”

— SangKyu Park FRENCH FASHION “We like reading lots of fashion magazines like Vogue and Cosmopolitan.”

— Anonymous McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

ENGLISH BANDS England has produced a number of musical sensations, including the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Elton John and the Spice Girls.

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

Citrus College Clarion

Sports September 30, 2009

Sports Editor Erica Irigoyen - ccclarion@hotmail.com

Page 11

Men’s water polo goalie shows promise Kristin Lacuesta

Clarion Staff Writer unging and diving, treading water for long intervals, and maintaining constant vigilance, all in hopes of preventing a ball from making it into a net might not be your idea of fun.

One Citrus College student, however, said this form of underwater exertion is his favorite way to make a splash.

Meet Covina resident and sophomore Stephen Dohner, 19, the goalie for the Citrus College men’s water polo team.

Dohner has played water polo at the collegiate level for two years. As a freshman, coach Steve Smith named Dohner the starting goalie, and he played in all 31 games of the

L

2008 season. He blocked a remarkable 256 shots and had a .422 blocking percentage, earning second team All-WSC honors.

“I was really excited when my coach announced that I was going to be the starting goalie,” Dohner said.

“Being a freshman and all made it that much better.”

Despite his enthusiasm for the sport, playing water polo was not originally in his plans.

At first, while he was attending Charter Oak High School, Dohner only wanted to be on the swim team.

He was friends with some of the guys on the water polo team there, and eventually he got to know the coaches. With a little persuasion, he joined the team — and loved it. During his junior and senior years, he played extremely well, earning first team All-Miramonte League honors.

The Citrus College water polo

team practices on average four hours a day Monday through Thursday, two hours in the morning and two in the afternoon. On Fridays, the team might practice three hours when they don't have a tournament.

“To be honest I was actually worried when he first came in. I didn’t know if he could do it,” said coach Smith. “But he is dedicated and very hardworking and has established himself as one of the best goalies in the conference.”

During both morning and afternoon practices, the players scrimmage and run drills. Water polo is a demanding sport, so they condition hard. Practice sessions aren’t too hard physically because players have to save their energy for the games.

The players and coaches are more focused on making sure all 16 players know what they are supposed to do.

Dohner plans to transfer to Cal

Standout player motivates team Robert Lucero

Clarion Staff Writer

A

mong this generation of Citrus College athletes, women’s water polo team goalie, Amelia Huss, is a standout.

Her stats for the last four games say it all.

She has a goal average of 25 with 40 saves, as well as a .615 save percentage.

Huss leads her teammates in all three of these categories.

“When the team needs to get bailed out, I want to make sure I’m there. I’m the last line of defense,” she said.

So how does she like playing goalie?

“I enjoy what I do because I don’t have to swim much.” she joked. “I like to swat the shot and diminish the other team’s hopes.”

In addition to intimidating opposing teams, Huss takes it upon herself to make her presence felt by her own teammates as well.

She does her best to inspire them all to strive to be better players.

“I want nothing more than for the team to succeed,” Huss said.

When Huss sees a player not giving her all, she’ll call her out and verbally scold her.

She reminds her teammates that they are all good players, but can do way better when they put forth the effort.

“I don’t accept ‘I can’t’ or ‘I’m sorry’ in the pool,” she said.

Huss' teammates describe her as a leader.

“She is the most motivating person ever,” said fellow utility teammate Meghan Turner.

Utility Brittany Orduno agrees.

“When I’m feeling down during a game, Amelia brings me up.

Whenever I’m doing something wrong, she corrects me. She makes me better,” Orduno said.

“To become a good water polo

Amelia Huss player, an athlete needs to be a strong swimmer, have natural talent, be aware of the game, and anticipate the action,” Huss said.

“A water polo player is like any other athlete who should be hardworking, dedicated, driven and have a desire to become a student of the game,” she said.

Huss began her career in the pool by competing on Pacific Sands’ swim team.

Her swim coach, Anthony Iacopetti introduced her to water polo when she was 13 and in the eighth grade.

On Fridays, Huss and her swim teammates would go off and play water polo together for fun.

After observing her play, Iacopetti suggested that she join a water polo club team.

The coach noticed a natural talent as he watched her play with her friends.

During the next for years at Edison High School, Huss averaged a career 261 saves and earned the team’s MVP, the Most Inspirational Award and the Coach’s Award.

She broke the record for saves in a single season, tied the school record for the most saves in a single game and was inducted into the Edison Water Polo Hall of Fame in 2007.

After playing all four years at Edison in Long Beach, Huss thought she was done with water polo for good.

“I didn’t think I would ever pick up a ball again,” she said.

As a freshman at Azusa Pacific University, she discovered that there was no women’s water polo team, but many different coaches tried to convince her to play for their teams.

She declined each of them.

She was simply finished with water polo, or so she thought.

Citrus College women’s water polo coach, Tim Kyle, told Huss about the Owls.

Huss decided she could help out, and give water polo another try, but a year out of the pool left her out of shape.

After working out a lot, she regained her conditioning and rebuilt her skills.

Last year, she helped lead the Owls to second place in the Western State Conference.

Huss found out that she still had a knack for water polo, collecting 214 saves, as well as recording a .586 block percentage for the year.

Aside from her love of the sport and her natural talent, Huss had other reasons for returning to water polo.

“These girls are the reason I’m here,” she said. “They gave me my passion back for the sport. If it wasn’t for them, I’d be long gone. I dig my teammates.”

Huss will be graduating from APU in May 2010 with a degree in business.

Her goal is to get a job in corporate management or real estate.

Huss said she does not plan to pursue a professional water polo career, but will forever enjoy the sport.

Robert Lucero can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

State Fullerton in fall 2010, but unfortunately the university does not have a men’s water polo team.

“I wish I could play at the next level,” Dohner said, “but I really want to go to Fullerton, so having no water polo team isn’t going to hold me back from going there. I’ll probably play at Citrus for fun and maybe even go back to my high school and help out the team there.”

After he is finished with college, Dohner hopes to join the Air Force.

After doing military service, Dohner, who is working toward an associate’s degrees in political science and history plans to pursue either politics or teaching.

His goals are what keep Dohner focused and on track— qualities he puts to use in the pool as well as the classroom.

Dohner said his job as a goalie is to follow the ball and know what

everyone else is doing. His quality of play depends on how well his teammates play defensively.

“The hard work he puts in during the off-season has definitely shown this season. I’m happy to know Dohner; he’s a good teammate,” said Justin Carmody, a driver for the team.

In the team’s first game of the season against Chaffey College, Dohner had 13 saves and helped the team obtain a victory of 17-10. The men’s water polo team currently holds a 3-6 record.

The Citrus men’s water polo team’s next home game is Friday, Oct. 2 at 3 p.m. against Miramar College.

Kristin Lacuesta can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Citrus College Clarion

Arts & Entertainment Page 12

Arts & Entertainment Ashley Broussard - ccclarion@hotmail.com

September 30, 2009

‘The Informant’ full of action, extremely comical Matt San Pedro Clarion Staff Writer “The Informant,” directed by Steven Soderbergh, is a good choice for the student looking for more than just a quick escape into the typical fictional comedy.

The movie is based off the nonfiction book by Kurt Eichenwald. It is a true story about a corporation hotshot who gets caught up in his own lies, a situation which ultimately leads to his demise.

The corporation is Archer Daniels Midland, a worldwide enterprise that transforms crops into animal feed, bio fuels, and various food ingredients.

While ADM scientists are working on a project to develop a new type of food, they find a poisonous virus. The problem is then dumped on Mark Whitacre (Matt Damon), the president

of ADM’s bio product division. He is subsequently contacted by a competing company demanding $10 million in return for the cure. Meanwhile Whitacre seems lost in his imagination, which brings the comedic element into the picture.

Whitacre reports the blackmail to ADM executives, who call the FBI to discuss the case. ADM instructs Whitacre to say the calls from the incoming competitor are coming on the business line located in his home.

ADM explained that saying this would prevent the FBI from finding out about ADM’s own extortion and price fixing taking place.

His first interview with the FBI is in front of an ADM executive inside ADM’s board room. [It seems to go well, as the FBI decides to tap the business line in his home.] FBI agent Brian Shepard (Scott Bakula) comes to the house later that evening. When

Shockya.com he is about to leave, Whitacre, with encouragement from his wife Alexander Whitacre (Lucas McHugh Carroll), blows the secrets of ADM’s extortion and money laundering.

From this point, “The Informant” takes off. All the while, Whitacre con-

tinues his comical narratives describing the most pointless things.

When the FBI finds out about ADM’s extortion, Agent Shepard and Agent Bob Herndon (Joel McHale) begin to pressure Whitacre into becoming an informant for them. In a funny remark, Whitacre comments that his code name is Double-O-14 because “he was twice as smart as 007.”

Over the course of almost three years, Whitacre, Shepard, and Herndon collect hundreds of tapes and hours of video of ADM and other corporations working together as extortionists. Eventually, Whitacre is driven to the edge as ADM retaliates with records of Whitacre’s own participation in their affairs.

The ensuing trial is the turning point that changed Whitacre’s life for the worse and my perspective for the better.

His first attorney, James Epstein (Tony Hale), claims that Whitacre was not willingly the way he was but that the government “created him” and that the help he provided to the FBI outweighed the crimes that he was accused of and therefore he deserves a reduced sentence. It was granted to Whitacre, but due his belief that he was innocent he fires his attorney.

He then hires a second attorney, who doesn’t help him very much at all.

This movie amazed me not only because it was funny, but because it compelled me to consider specifically what Whitacre had thought while committing the crimes and why he always believed himself to be innocent.

Matt San Pedro can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Chris Lopez Citrus College Clarion Death Punch packs a powerhouse of punk in VT 117 on Sept. 18. L to R: Marc Polanco on lead guitar, Ron Vest on rhythm guitar, Ike de la Torre on lead vocals, Damien de la Torre on drums and Drew Smith on bass.

Band strays from conformity Sandra Lopez Clarion Managing Editor Going to college while managing a band can be tough. In addition to booking gigs, rehearsing and performing, Damien de la Torre and Ron Vest are taking on the challenge of being full-time Citrus students majoring in music.

“It has a lot to do with time management,” de la Torre said. “I try to balance school while still making progress with the band.”

He and his brother, Citrus alumnus Ike de la Torre, founded the punk rock band Death Punch in 2002.

At San Marino High School, they met basssist Drew Smith, and Marc Polanco, one of its two guitarists.

Vest was recruited from another band that was falling apart at the time.

Together they have written songs about stopping mind control and being your own person.

“I want us to be in a position where our voice is actually heard,”de la Torre said.

Earlier this month Death Punch rehearsed in the VT Building while

Alan Waddington critiqued them.

Waddington is a well-respected lab technician in the music department at Citrus College.

“They’re really energetic and driven to become more efficient and resourceful in their pursuit of their career,” Waddington said. “I think they have a good chance of doing what they want in the music business.”

Their message to the world is: “Wake up, make your own decisions and swim against the current.”

Death Punch recently played three shows on the Vans Warped Tour in Pomona, Ventura, and San Francisco.

Former Citrus student Kevin Lyman, founder of VWT, described Death Punch as “straight up punk rock. I like it. It’s the kind of stuff I grew up on.”

Their dynamic songs, passionate lyrics and fast beats get crowds going wild, especially when they invite their fans to mosh and sing along with them on stage.

“It’s more than just a punk crowd,” Ike de la Torre said. “We embrace all of our fans and appreciate all of the support.”

Not to be confused with the heavy

metal band Five-Finger Death Punch, Death Punch derived their name from the drink rather than a physical punch. Plus, Vest added, “We’re way sexier.”

The band derived its name from cult leader Jim Warren Jones (aka Jim Jones), the founder of the “People’s Temple,” who led more than 900 people to commit suicide.

Jones’ followers were given KoolAid mixed with cyanide and tranquilizers to drink. The power of Jones’ “death punch” fascinated the band and led them to think about the dangers of mind control.

“We have been so fascinated at the thought of how people can be so blindly influenced by leaders, religions, and governments, even to a point of sacrificing one’s own life for their beliefs…” said Death Punch on their website.

Death Punch is scheduled to play Friday at The Blvd in Boyle Heights.

For more information on the band visit www.myspace.com/deathpunch.

Sandra Lopez can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

A&E

September 30, 2009

Citrus College Clarion Page 13

Annual fall event to fundraise for student success Andrew Vasquez

Sponsors for this year’s “A Taste of Autumn” include:

Clarion Editor In Chief Citrus College is going to be having its annual fall fundraiser and food and wine-tasting event, “A Taste of Autumn” on Oct. 4 in the Campus Center Mall from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.

The fall scholarship benefit was started in 1985 as a dinner auction.

Then, in 1996, former Foundation President Jane Braun and current Board of Trustees member Patricia Rasmussen created “A Taste of Autumn,” an outdoor party where local restaurants and wineries offer gourmet food and wine to the community.

Since then, “A Taste of Autumn” has grown to become one of the more well-known events in the San Gabriel Valley.

This year’s event is expected to be of the same quality as it has been in past years, despite the state of the economy.

Live entertainment at “A Taste of Autumn” is scheduled to include performances by The Citrus Singers, the local music group Night Shift, and The Blue Note Orchestra. A fine arts exhibit and sale will showcase student artwork and sculpture.

This years event will have different silent auction items that like every other year, people will come to the event to fulfill all of their gift giving and travel needs, said Paula

Green, Citrus College director of communications.

“I have always seen that people come to the event to do their Christmas shopping,” Green said.

“We have everything from a pair of LA Kings tickets to gift baskets.”

“Also, we have tons of vacation packages, like a seven night stay in Hawaii, that is featured in the silent auction, so if you like to travel, the silent auction is it,” she said.

One travel prize that she said is their newest and perhaps going to be the most sought after will be the “Casa Bella Getaway.” It is a seven night stay at Casa Bella which is a four-bedroom house located in Antigua, Guatemala, just minutes away from the Mercado and Parque Central with a clear view of Volcan Agua.

Green said that the amount of participation from the local community is still strong, and that the tough economic times have infact made them more giving.

“I was pleasantly surprised and gratified by the amount of support by the community in support of the students,” Green said. “Because

of what is happening in education this year, because of the budget cuts, I feel that they saw that there is a heightened need for supporting our students.”

Sponsors for this year’s “A Taste of Autumn” event include Pepsi, Best Buy, Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt, and the Citrus Alumni Association.

“It is always the people that help support us by coming out to the event that give it a different flavor every year and make it as successful as it has been,” she said.

Tickets are available for this year’s “A Taste of Autumn” event and will be sold at $80 a piece. A reservation form can be purchased by calling the Citrus College Foundation Office at (626) 914-8825. To reserve by credit card, call the Foundation Accounting Office at (626) 852-8008.

All guests must be 21 and older to attend. Dress is casual.

Andrew Vasquez can be reached at clarion_eic@yahoo.com

Retha & Chris Champion/Covina Center for the Performing Arts; FLS International; Pepsi; tBP Architecture; Adolph Ziemba, AIA & Associates, Inc.; Citrus College Managment Team; Citrus Alumni Association; Follett Book Publishers/Dick & Janice Douglass; Gary & Barbara Gilde; Monrovia Growers; Northrup Grumman; Orbach, Huff & Suarez LLP; R2A Architecture; Wells Fargo Foundation; America’s Christian Union; Apollo West; Associated Students of Citrus College; Athens Services; Atkinson; Andelson, Loya, Rudd & Romo; Best Buy; C&L Concrete; Citrus Valley Florist; Citrus Valley Heath Partners; City of Azusa; Crestview Cadillac; Criterion Catalysts; Ferrari Brothers Body Shop; Foothill Family Practice Medical Group, Inc; Rancho Vasquez, Schools First Federal Credit Union; SEHI Computer Products; Stanley Steemer Carpet Cleaner; Strata Information Group, Inc.; The Gas Company; The Hat No. 6/Glendora; Three Valleys Muncipal Water District; Vizual Symphony Inc.; Western A/V, Coldwell Banker Millennium; Comfort Suites; Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt; L & B Foods, Inc. / McDonalds, Mercury Fence Company, Inc.; Passion Crafted Comfort; Seidner’s Collision Centers; The Shredders; Verizon; A-1 Event & Party Rentals; The Flower Shops in Forest Lawn; Azusa Community News; Glendora Community News; San Gabriel Valley Newspaper Group.

Citrus College Clarion

Opinions Page 14

Opinions Editor D.K. Heller - ccclarion@hotmail.com

September 30, 2009

Coffee dilemma: cost vs. quality Courtney Mitchell Clarion Life Editor Whether we brew it at home or purchase it from a Starbucks, McDonalds, or 7-Eleven, many depend on coffee to get through the day. And now, more companies than ever are jumping on the coffee craze.

Because the economy is in such a crisis, every coffee company is fighting for your dollars.

In today’s society, low price and convenience outweigh taste. No longer is it a question about who serves the best coffee, but about where coffee is cheap.

In terms of convenience, McDonald’s is an obvious contender. With many locations and speedy service, it’s a one-stop shop for coffee and breakfast. McDonald’s “made-to-order” burger and fries strategy has created one of the world’s most successful companies.

Though the McMuffin might be tasty, the McCafe is just average. Their iced or hot drinks are not custom-made, but there are several different variations, including sugar-free syrups and nonfat milk.

After tax, a small coffee is $1.53, and a medium regular iced coffee is $2.07. Fast service and a low price. Can you beat that?

Another popular convenience store, 7Eleven, also offers a variety of coffee.

While 7-Eleven lacks the convenience of a drive-thru, it makes up the difference in selection.

All of the different coffees, sugars, and creamers are spread out on the counter.

Making it easier to create your own coffee quickly.

Brewed coffee runs from $1.09 to

Anazarry Danganan Citrus College Clarion $1.69. However, this low cost comes with a cheap taste.

On our quest for coffee, let us not forget the local donut shops. The Donut Man and Class One Donuts, both located in Glendora, rely heavily on the loyalty of regular customers.

However, they have also stepped up, adding latte and cappuccino machines.

Now they steam the milk and pull the espresso shots. But pushing a button on a

machine is all the same, I suppose.

What all of these stores focus on is breakfast first, coffee second. But none of these coffee options compare with my all-time favorite.

With 87,000 different drink combinations and many tasty pastries, Starbucks is my first stop in the morning.

“I need a Starbucks” has become a synonym for “I need coffee.”

Although Starbucks specializes in cof-

fee, the company offers a selection of pastries and sandwiches.

A tall coffee costs $1.60, but refills for the rest of the day are just 50 cents, as long as you bring your own cup back.

Of course, when you add on extra shots of espresso or soymilk to your drink, it will cost you a little bit more.

Starbucks also offers a variety of custom-made iced coffee, blended coffee, blended crème, and tea drinks.

It’s no wonder that society is spoiled by Starbucks every morning. Yes, good taste is addicting.

However, it is worth it to pay the extra dollar to have your drink made to perfection? Some customers pay $3.80 for a venti mocha every morning before work. If they work five days a week, the cost of a 20ounce latte every morning adds up. You do the math.

So is it worth the high cost? Well, that’s up to you to decide. As a Starbucks customer and partner, I understand the equation from both sides.

Being behind the counter making a triple venti, nonfat, extra hot, no whip zebra mocha can be a lot of pressure.

But I, too, pay the top price for my drinks when I am not working and I expect my drink to be made perfect just like everyone else.

In the end, it’s all about the taste, but compromising quality for price just doesn’t seem worth it to me.

Courtney Mitchell can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com

Health Care Reform = Insomnia For The American Dream Dustin Call Clarion News Editor The American Dream: Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These ideas, the foundation upon which this great nation was built, are once again in danger as the battle over healthcare reform trudges on.

Americans have come to desire the very thing that their founding fathers fought for and died to get away from: too much government control.

The main argument behind reforming the healthcare industry is that big, greedy, HMO-providing corporations are charging too much for quality care so that many people cannot afford it, and that the government should take over the industry so everyone can have equal, quality treatment.

Another notion the founding fathers intended for this country was free enterprise. With so many opportunities here, anybody can have chance to succeed. What Socialists such as Obama want is to distribute everything evenly and rid the country of prosperity.

It is true that with free enterprise, not everyone finds themselves in prosperous situations.

There will always be someone who is less fortunate.

So while healthcare reform would provide everyone with basic care, or so they say, it will disenable individuals from attaining something better by forcing out the private companies, thus killing the American Dream.

Government should never take away opportunities from individuals just so everything can be even. That is not what America is about. That is Socialism, Marxism, not liberty.

I agree that something does need to be done to provide those who truly cannot afford it with healthcare. But the plan that Obama is conjuring up will be little more than a handout for those who choose not to budget their finances or work harder to get what they need; a handout that will be paid for by taxpayer money, of which trillions has already been wasted by the current administration.

Luckily, the Senate Finance Committee, which helps to oversee government spending, has already voted against the idea of government-run healthcare.

In further argument, John Stossel of ABC’s “20/20” has produced a special report on the

Anazarry Danganan Citrus College Clarion healthcare reform, stating, “when government takes charge, innovation stops.”

His report explains how healthcare will be in greater demand than the government will be able to pay for, meaning that the delusion of quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare will be little more than just that.

Britain and Canada both have a universal healthcare system; they have people lining the sidewalks waiting to see a dentist.

For a country whose approval of Congress is currently around 30 percent, citizens are pretty brave to be putting their health in the hands of their government.

Americans need to fight to keep healthcare out of the hands of the government and in the hands of companies that can afford to invent new technologies and ways to provide care for Americans.

No situation will be perfect, but the Socialist agenda that

Obama is pushing in the fluff media will take America down the road to disaster.

Stossel’s “20/20” report can easily be found by visiting www.youtube.com/AmericasNewsToday1. Search for “John Stossel health care” in the channel’s video box.

Dustin Call can be reached at clarion.news@gmail.com

Citrus College Clarion

Editorials September 30, 2009

Plan for parking relief now Citrus College should begin the planning process now to build a parking structure in the lot by the football stadium.

Limited parking at Citrus affects not only its students, but also the college’s residential neighbors.

Last year, neighbors complained that they had nowhere to park and that cars blocked their driveways.

For these reasons, parking is now prohibited on streets surrounding the campus, particularly in the neighborhood near Barranca Avenue, as well as in the college center north of the football stadium.

If you park on these streets you will recieve a parking ticket or your vehivle may be towed. An alternative for this situation is a short walk or shuttle ride from Citrus Annex lots 1 and 2 located on Foothill Boulevard, this will save you time and money since parking in the annex lots is free.

Nevertheless, parking still seems to be an issue with the neighbors and students.

These facts are the reasons why we need a parking structure in the lot by the football stadium. Of course the principle obstacle is cost.

How would we pay for something like a parking structure? Particularly because of how the economy is and all the budget cuts toward education.

The planning, structure, maintenance, employees, electricity and elevators won’t come cheap.

Citrus College

Clarion

EDITOR IN CHIEF Andrew Vasquez

MANAGING EDITOR Sandra Lopez

NEWS EDITOR Dustin Call

Life Editor Courtney Mitchell

Sports Editor Erica Irigoyan

A&E Editor Ashley Broussard

Opinions/Editorials Editor D.K. Heller

Online Editor Emily Rios

Design Editor

Courtney Mitchell Art by Matt San Pedro To get an idea of how much it would cost, Mt. San Antonio College who is recently in the stages of constructing a parking structure’s project budget is $44,875,000.

Mt. San Antonio College is building a parking structure due to the problem of traffic in the lots that spills out on to the public streets. They have the same reason that we do for building a structure.

The funding for their new parking structure came from a bond passed by local voters that live in the district.

We believe that Citrus neighbors would support a bond measure to

build a parking structure, since it would most certainly make the lives of neighbors and students easier.

Therefore Citrus College must write a bond measure to fund construction of a parking structure When the economy gets better and college students start enrolling again it is guaranteed that the parking problem will still be here if nothing is done about it now.

So why choose to ignore this idea if it will always be a problem in the minds of students and neighbors of Citrus College?

Why don’t we start planning now? So that when the economy

improves we will be ready to start building.

This is not impossible, it just takes someone to step up and say something. We need to stop procrastinating and stop pretending that this is just a temporary dilemma.

Begin the research and planning now. The community will breath a sight of relief when the parking problem is solved.

who were both out of line and out of position.

Another instance of disrespect was shown at the 2009 Women’s Tennis U.S. Open.

During the Semi-Finals of the Tennis U.S. Open, the referee called a foot fault against the defending champion, Serena Williams.

Williams responded by taking a tennis ball and walking towards the referee.

She then threatened the referee by stating, “I swear to God I’m [explicitive] going to take this [explicitive] ball and shove it down your [explicitive] throat, you hear that? I swear to God.” After the game, Williams told reporters, “I didn’t threaten her. I don’t remember anymore what I said, to be honest. I was in the moment. And, you know, everyone’s fighting for every point. It was a really crucial point.”

When asked about apologizing to the referee, Williams said, “An apology? From me? Well, how many people yell at lines people? Players, athletes get frustrated. I don’t know how many times I’ve seen that happen.”

It’s bad enough the whole world, including numerous children who look up to Williams as an inspiration, had to witness her lose her compo-

sure earlier by slamming her racquet down and breaking it.

It’s even worse that we all had to witness her threaten the referee.

It is also sad to know that her arrogance keeps her from apologizing.

Williams was fined $10,000 for her outburst that day, but fined or not, this does not make things ok.

As if those events were not bad enough, just last week on the Citrus College campus, while a man was evangelizing to a crowd of students, a student in the crowd yelled at the evangelist, “F*** you and the Bible,” and then stormed off.

Is this the type of world we have come to?

A world where you can go about saying whatever you feel, and doing what ever you want, without the thought for anyone else?

We all know that the First Amendment of the United States Constitution grants all American citizens the right to freedom of speech.

As much as the freedom of speech is a right, it is also a responsibility.

It is our responsibility to use the First Amendment, but we also have to remember to use it with responsibility.

We all know the purpose of the First Amendment, and that is to exercise our freedom of speech; to freely express ourselves.

Photo Technician Frank Ram

Instructional Assistant Emily Rios

Adviser Margaret C. O’Neil

Staff Writers Anazarry Danganan

Correspondents Rene Lewis, Chris Lopez

Photographers /Artists

R-E-S-P-E-C-T, where art thou?

We are a civilized society, but our civility has been called into question.

In recent weeks, there have been many occurrences of unacceptable behavior involving American sports stars, musical artists, politicians, and even a student from our very own Citrus College.

The most notable event was on Sept. 9, during President Barack Obama’s speech on his proposed healthcare plan.

President Obama was rudely interrupted by an accusation from Republican representative Joe Wilson, who yelled out “You lie!”

On the 2009 Video Music Awards, Taylor Swift won an award for the “Best Female Video of the Year.”

As she was reciting her acceptance speech, Kanye West came up to her unannounced and interrupted her speech by snatching the microphone from her hand.

He then went on to say, “I’m sorry.

I’m going to let you finish but, Beyonce` had one of the best videos of all time! One of the best videos of all time!”

West later admitted that what he did was rude and apologized to Swift over the phone.

One man trying to help and lead the nation, one woman trying to thank the world, both rudely and unexpectedly interrupted by individuals

Page 15

Editorials Editor D.K. Heller - ccclarion@hotmail.com

But when we use that freedom foolishly, and harmfully, we are not using the freedom of speech responsibly.

Our forefathers fought hard to achieve this constitutional freedom, and their efforts should not be in vain.

Freedom of speech should not be abused by interrupting someone’s finest hour, threatening somebody, or putting someone down for what they believe.

Instead, we should all honor the efforts of forefathers by embracing our freedom of speech through well thought out, articulate, civilized expression.

We should use our speech to inspire people instead of putting them down.

Let us all concentrate on freeing the speech of everyone else around us, instead of telling everyone to “shut up.”

Like a choir coming together in harmony, we should unify all of our speech and voices, so that we may be heard clearer and louder.

As a whole, we will make our significance more known throughout the world.

“You should respect each other and refrain from disputes; you should not, like water and oil, repel each other, but should, like milk and water, mingle together.”

----Epictetus

Jessica Bravo, Dustin Call, Sandra Lopez, Courtney Mitchell,

Andrew Vasquez

Page Designers Dustin Call, Courtney Mitchell, Emily Rios, Andrew Vasquez The Clarion is produced by journalism students and is distributed every other Wednesday during the semester.

Ads are not endorsed by the Clarion.

Editorials are the opinion of at least 75 percent of the Editorial Board. All other opinion is that of the writer.

Views expressed do not represent those of the adviser, faculty, administration, Associated Students of Citrus College and/or the CCCBOT. Libel will not be published.

The Clarion welcomes feedback from our readers. If you have any gripes, questions, or comments ... we want to hear from you! All correspondence must include your student ID#, major and signature. Letters may be edited for clarity or length.

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Page 16 Citrus College Clarion

September 30, 2009

The Bellydance Superstars ignite the stage of the Haugh Performing Arts Center with colors of pink and red as they perform the title and opening number to their performance, “The Art of Bellydance,” on Sept. 26.

Sonia (front) and Sabah let the music move them as they build the crowd’s anticipation for the crescendo of the opening number, “The Art of Bellydance,” at Citrus College.

‘Art of Bellydance’ mystifies audiences in Haugh Performing Photos and story by Arts Center Andrew Vasquez Lauren (left) and Kami wow the crowd with their fast-paced dancing during the third performance of “The Art of Bellydance.” Their performance was titled “Tribal Fusion Part I.”

Sonia sways sensually to the beat of Issam Houshan’s melodic drumming during the number “Art of the Drum Solo” during the “The Art of Bellydance” show in the Haugh Performing Arts Center.

The Saturday night audience in the Haugh Performing Arts Center was drawn into a world of mysticism and sensuality, as their eyes followed the dancers’ swaying hips and their hearts pounded to the beat of the drums.

Titled “The Art of Bellydance,” this magic was performed by the Bellydance Superstars.

At the forefront of the current craze that is bellydancing, this troupe has performed more than 600 shows in 20 countries. From small clubs to symphony halls and opera houses, the Bellydancing Superstars have gained critical acclaim.

Consisting of two acts and 18 performances, the 13 bellydancers, along with Issam Houshan on drums, put on a show that ranged and carried sounds of the ancient world to that of the modern world.

The first number was extravagant, mystifying and utterly beautiful. Dressed in costumes that flowed through the air, the dancers created a kaleidoscope of shapes and colors.

The music was intoxicating as well. This opener showed what the art of bellydancing is all about.

“Ya Raitone” carried with it a more technoMiddle Eastern feel. The troupe’s dancing was more robotic rather than the smooth, faster movements of more traditional bellydancing.

In the routine “South Pacific Bellynesian,” the women took the audience on a mini-vacation to

Hawaii. They donned Hibiscus flowers in their hair, vibrant ruby red pa’u and assorted headpieces and jewelry.

The music was also reminiscent of the islands, so much so that their hips swayed like the tide of the ocean.

The four acts—“The Art of the Drum Solo,” “Party Drum 2009,” “Tribal Drum Solo” and the finale, “We are One,”—featured Houshan on the drums.

He continued playing even after the dancers had finished, and everyone sat there in awe, listening to the intricate beats.

It must also be noted that Houshan, although born in Damascus, Syria, grew up in Glendora.

So he announced to the crowd at the beginning that the show was like a homecoming for him.

The Haugh Performing Arts Center was almost filled to capacity, and much of the audience chanted and clapped along with the music throughout the performance.

The show was one that will remain in the minds of the audience for a very long time. It was an enthralling meeting of the ancient world and the new.

Andrew Vasquez can be reached at clarion_eic@yahoo.com