THECLARION CITRUS COLLEGE >>>THECLARIONONLINE.COM
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
The football team remains hopeful regardless of their recent loss. The next game is away against San Bernardino Valley on Oct. 2.
VOLUME LXIV, ISSUE 3
CITRUS DAY EXTRAVAGANZA PG 10/11
SPOTLIGHT Citrus student and avid skateboarder David Compton shares his story while hanging out and riding his skateboard at his skateshop located in Covina. PG 20 Television networks have recently premired their fall line-up including new shows as well as old fan favorites. Check out what we had to say in our reviews on theclariononline.com
SPORTS
CAMPUS
ONLINE EXCLUSIVE
INSIDE THIS EDITION Despite recent game losses, the volleyball team have their heads held high as they get ready to face off against Fullerton tonight at 6 p.m. PG 12
PERSPECTIVES
ENTERTAINMENT Check out all the commotion in the Haugh Performing Arts Center this weekend at an always discounted price for students. PG 15
As are many clubs on campus, the Filmakers Club is eager to have more students join and participate in their love for film. PG 7
In light of Banned Books Week, the Clarion staff feels that it is important to not only take advantage of all the library has to offer but also start reading for fun. PG 18/19
NEWS BRIEFS
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LOCAL Glendora starts search for new chief Glendora hopes to find a new full-time police chief by the end of the year, according to city officials. Current Glendora Police Chief Charles Montoya, a retiree, works on a part-time basis but officially retires at the end of 2010. The chief would be in charge of a department with a budget of $14.8 million, 52 sworn personnel, 38 civilian personnel, 14 part-time positions and volunteers. The city's general fund budget is $22.5 million. Salary for the position is not yet determined. Benefits include a flexible health insurance plan and a city vehicle. The position also includes 96 hours per year of administrative leave, vacation time between three and four weeks a year, 12 days per year of sick time with unlimited accumulation and 10 paid holidays. The position requires the chief live within 65 miles of Glendora City Hall. Mayor Ken Herman said "we want crime to be down and high expectations of professionalism within the force." Courtesy of the San Gabriel Valley Tribune
STATE California allows sealing murdered children's records Autopsy reports of slain children could be sealed permanently under a bill signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in response to several murders of children and teenagers in California over the last year. Schwarzenegger spokesman Matt Connelly said Tuesday the governor signed the bill to protect the privacy of victims' families and prevent more suffering for them. The law lets family members request that autopsies and other evidence be kept private if their child was killed during a crime. The request could be made only after a conviction, under the bill by Senate Minority Leader Dennis Hollingsworth. The California Newspaper Publishers Association, opposed the bill, SB5. However, Jim Ewert, a lawyer with the association, said it was narrowed from a more sweeping original version that might have protected killers who murdered their own family members. The bill was amended to prohibit a family member from asking that the records be sealed if he or she has been charged with any involvement in the child's death.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
ANNOUNCEMENTS CITRUS COLLEGE SNAPSHOT DAY IN THE LIBRARY Citrus College snapshot day is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 4 in the Citrus College Library from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Snapshot day will help the California Library Association gather information and create a compelling picture of library services in California. The results will show how many people use California’s libraries on a given day. The CLA will use the information to advocate with legislators at the state and local level, and to demonstrate the value and importance of libraries to California’s citizens. HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH Award-winning author Victor Villasenor, whose novel rain of Gold is a New York Times Bestseller, will be on campus Thursday, October 14 at 10 a.m. in the Campus Center East Wing. Villasenor’s presentation is co-sponsored by the Associated Students of Citrus College, the Office of Student Life, and the Latina Leadership Network. This free event is part of the college’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. CAMPUS FIRE DRILL As part of the college’s ongoing emergency preparation, an all campus fire drill has been planned. This event will allow the college to include students in ourpreparation and training efforts. Prior to Wednesday, September 29, please review evacuation procedures with classes that meet from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Emergency flip charts are posted in all classrooms.
HAUGH DRUMLINE PERFORMANCE DruMLiNE LiVE is a show-stopping attraction created by the music team behind 20th Century Fox's hit movie Drumline, and brings show-style marching bands to the theatrical stage. The Columbia Artistspresented event will rehearse the show at Citrus College prior to beginning their national tour. They will perform on our stage onWednesday, October 6, 2010 at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $20 with a special $10 price for Citrus staff and students. Tickets are available through the box office at (626) 963-9411 or at our website: www.haughpac.com. Citrus staff purchasing online should purchase student tickets. Further information is available at www.haughpac.com
VALLEY’S GOT TALENT The Citrus College Foundation and the Citrus College Fine and Performing Arts Department will be presenting the first “Valley’s Got Talent” fundraiser at the Haugh Performing Arts Center on Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 2 p.m. Proceeds for the event will help support the Citrus College Foundation and the students of the Fine and Performing Arts Department at Citrus College. Modeled after some of the television’s most popular shows, local amateur singers, dancers and musicians of all ages will perform before an expected audience of about 1,400 people. Tickets are $20 per person and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, or for additional information, visit www.citruscollege.edu/foundation/talent.
Courtesy of MSNBC
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Oprah donates $6 million to U.S. schools TV talk show host Oprah Winfrey said on Monday she would give a total of $6 million to six educational organizations that help to turn around troubled U.S. schools. The award is the largest given by Winfrey's Angel Network during her show and came as Winfrey devoted two days of her influential TV program to the issue of public schooling. The winning organizations, announced on Monday's broadcast, are based in Philadelphia, California, Colorado, Illinois, Louisiana and Texas. Winfrey's Angle Network charitable organization described them as "ground-breaking leaders in the provision of quality public education." Winfrey on Monday hosted a panel of education reform advocates including Microsoft founder Bill Gates and Davis Guggenheim, the director of the upcoming documentary film "Waiting for Superman." The film follows the efforts of five children who enter a lottery to win a place in a high-performing school. According to the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, the performance of American students in science and math is consistently in the middle or lower than their international counterparts. Courtesy of MSNBC
INTERNATIONAL Afghanistan president questions mission President Hamid Karzai broke into tears Tuesday while delivering a speech in which he questioned the efficacy of the NATO military mission in Afghanistan and condemning an epidemic of violence gripping his country. In the same speech, the Afghan leader called on Taliban "compatriots" to lay down their arms. The government Tuesday named a nearly 70-member council to make peace overtures to the insurgency, whose leaders have rebuffed Karzai's appeals to come to the bargaining table. The presidential outburst was apparently prompted by the assassination of a deputy governor in Ghazni province, south of Kabul, which has become a hotbed of insurgent activity. A suicide blast aimed at the convoy of the deputy governor, Kazim Allayar, killed him and at least six other people, Afghan officials said. Courtesy of Los Angeles Times
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CITRUS COLLEGE CLARION Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Campus Editor Entertainment Editor Sports Editor Perspectives Editor Online Editor Photo Technician Lab Supervisor
Courtney Mitchell Erica Irigoyen Kristin Lacuesta Natalie Miranda Erica Irigoyen Courtney Mitchell Emily Rios Frank Ram Stacy Long Laura Gordon Adviser Margaret O’Neil Teaching Assistant Emily Rios
Staff
Writers Brandon Lozano Rob Lucero Anthony Giordano Joseph Thorne Yusuf Ali Daniel Rodriguez Rachel Fuller Photographers Donna Davey and Artists Brandon Lozano Natalie Miranda Courtney Mitchell Daniel Rodriguez CLARION MAILBOX 1000 W. Foothill Blvd. Glendora, CA 91741-1899 Phone: (626) 914-8586 Fax: (626) 914-8797 Email: ccclarion@hotmail.com
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 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 and length.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
CAMPUS
3 Kristin Lacuesta
News & Features Editor - kristin.lacuesta@gmail.com
College transfer degree awaits Governor’s signature Kristin Lacuesta Clarion Campus Editor
The Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act was passed by the California Senate and is now on its way to the Assembly Appropriations Committee. The Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act (STAR) would simplify the transfer process between the California Community Colleges and California State University systems by establishing a transfer degree option. The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation. It is composed of 72 districts and 112 colleges that serve approximately 2.9 million students annually. About 50,000 community college students transfer to the CSU system a year, according to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. Authored by Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Pacoima), SB 1440 might generate approximately $160 million annually in cost savings as well as increase efficiency. The money saved would provide access to an estimated 14,000 CSU students and 40,000 community college students each year, Padilla estimates. STAR is supported by California Community Colleges Chan-
cellor Jack Scott as well as California State University Chancellor Charles Reed. “[STAR] will ease transfer for community college students who want to continue their educational goals at a four year college,” Scott said in a press release. “I feel now is the time for this reform to take place.” This bill would require the California Community Colleges to grant an associate’s degree for transfer to those students who meet certain requirements. It would prohibit the California Community Colleges from imposing any additional requirements for a student to be eligible for the associate’s degree and subsequent admission to the CSU system. It would guarantee that a student who earns a transfer degree be admitted to the CSU system with upper division junior status. It would also prohibit the CSU system from requiring community college transfer students to repeat courses taken at the community college level that were counted toward the associate’s degree. In order to be eligible for a transfer degree, community college students would have to meet certain requirements. Students would have to complete and fulfill the CSU general education requirements (IGETC)
McClatchy-Tribune Services
California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has until Sept. 30 to sign or veto STAR.
and have completed a minimum of 18 semester units in a major or area emphasis, to be determined by the community college. “One of the primary missions of the college is transferring,” Counselor Rafael Herrera said. “That’s why we’re really hoping the governor will sign it so these transfer degrees can further promote transfer.” Arizona, North Carolina and Oregon have created transfer degree programs to help students
transfer easily and efficiently. According to a list compiled on USnews.com, of the top 100 colleges with the highest number of transfer students admitted each year, universities in Arizona topped the list. Arizona State University admitted 5,388 transfer students last year alone. Universities in North Carolina and Oregon also made the list. Existing law in California does not require alignment between the
California Community Colleges and the state universities. As a result, students are sometimes confused regarding transfer requirements. Consequently, costs continue to increase and access for students is being reduced. The governor has until Sept. 30 to sign or veto the legislation. “Regardless if [the governor] signs it, we are still committed in working closely with our local colleges, especially the CSU system,” Herrera said.
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CAMPUS College to meet ASCC budget deadlines,
Beat
What you missed at the Sept. 28 meeting - $4,000 for General Assembly approved. - Sponsorship of Citrus College’s Valley’s Got Talent fundraiser in the amount of $1,000 from Public Relations has been moved to next week. - CAB/Office of Student Life will host the 12th Annual Volunteer Fair in order to expose students and staff to the various volunteer opportunities available in the local community. The fair is scheduled to be held in the Handy Campus Center on Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Kitchen repiairs, money needed to fix refridgerators in the amount of $3,500 - ASCC gets money from cafeteria and bookstore. - Nov. 16 dedication to the new security building at 3 p.m. - Citrus College receives two awards at a luncheon with the American Red Cross. - Pyschology Club will have a “Movie of the Month” for club members only. - The Photography Club will have a Family Portrait Night to fundraise for the club. The event will be Dec. 3- 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in an on compus location.
state legislature sets record for delay Robert Theys Kristin Lacuesta Clarion Staff Writers
The state of California and Citrus College are facing many challenges, but none more serious than adopting a budget. Currently, the Finance Committee at Citrus is preparing a budget for the 2010-2011 fiscal without knowing how the college’s needs are going to be accommodated by the state. On Sept. 21, Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D., superintend-
ent/president of Citrus College and Carol Horton vice president of finance and administrative services, hosted an all-campus forum on the budget. “We will get through this, but it won’t be easy,” Perri said. “One day at a time is the mentality right now.” The current 2010-2011 Citrus College budget is $59,612,197. Salaries account for about 45 percent of the budget, Horton said. The Finance Committee, which Horton chairs, uses the number of full-time equiva-
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010 lent students (FTES) to help formulate the budget plan. The number of FTES for 2009-2010 fiscal year was 11,444 even though Citrus was only given funds for 11,343. For the 2010-2011 fiscal year there was no change in the number of FTES funded. Citrus has seen a growth in enrollment the past two fiscal years, so the college is not being reimbursed by the state for all the students it serves. California’s state budget, or lack thereof, is making the Citrus plan even harder to develop. Midterm elections are scheduled for Nov. 2 and state legislature set a new record for missing the deadline for adopting a budget. In addition, Perri stated that Citrus College would be hiring 8 to 12 new full-time faculty members for the 2011 year with or without a determined budget. Citrus may be fined $66,000 for every faculty member who is not hired.
Horton said that hiring eight new faculty members for spring 2011 would cost approximately $360,000. “We have been carefully monitoring our expenditures to ensure we are in compliance with the 50 percent law and the fulltime faculty hiring obligation (75/25),” Perri said. “We’ve been fined before, and it’s not something that I would want to do again,” Horton said. Horton even mentioned the possibility of not having a budget in place until January 2011. To pay the staff and keep construction going without a budget, it could mean that Citrus would borrow money from the Los Angeles County Treasurer to pay its bills. The budget plan is expected to be presented to the Board of Trustees in its regular meeting on Oct. 5 at 4:15 p.m. in the Administration Building. The meeting is open to the public.
Republicans filibuster DREAM Act Kristin Lacuesta Clarion Campus Editor
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid brought the Defense Spending Bill to the floor, which included the repeal of the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy as well as the DREAM Act on Tuesday Sept. 21. As the voting proceeded, the Senate Democratic leaders fell short of the 60 votes they needed to debate the amendments added to the 2011 defense bill. A Republican filibuster led by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz) denied the motion to bring the amendments to the floor for debate by a vote of 56-43. The Defense Spending Bill would have authorized $726 billion in defense spending, including a pay raise for American troops. Included was also an amendment authorizing the repeal of the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy enacted in 1993 during former U.S. President Bill Clinton’s tenure in office. The policy restricts the military from asking questions to re-
veal a person’s sexual orientation, while barring those who are openly gay, lesbian or bisexual from military service. Reid, who is facing a close reelection challenge on Nov. 2, has pledged to use the Defense Spending Bill as a means to implement an immigration reform proposal: the DREAM Act. The Act would provide approximately 65,000 undocumented students with a pathway to citizenship if they meet certain criteria. Candidates would have to be younger than 35, have graduated high school or earned a GED, have been living in the United States five years prior to the law’s taking effect, was 16 years old or younger when they first arrived in the United States, and have demonstrated “good moral character.” Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor, Democratic senators of Arkansas, voted no with the Republicans. The Senate is expected to take up debate of the Defense Spending Bill after the midterm elections on Nov. 2.
McClatchy-Tribune Services
Sen. Majority Leader Harry Reid brought the Defense Spending Bill to the floor which ultimately was filibustered by the Republicans.
AB 540 being challenged in California Kristin Lacuesta Clarion Campus Editor
The constitutionality of California’s AB 540 is being challenged in court on Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 9 a.m. at the California Court of Appeal, Fifth Appellate District in Fresno. Enacted in October 2001, AB 540 allows qualified undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at California’s public colleges and universities.
Latino Justice filed an amicus brief in October 2009, titled Martinez v. Regents of the University of California. It was signed by more than 20 educational advocacy organizations, immigrant rights groups and individual professors and academics. Under AB 540, students who have attended at least three years of high school in California, graduated from a California high school, and provided an affidavit stating
that they will apply for legalization once he or she is eligible, are allowed to pay in-state tuition rates The New York Latino Research and Resources Network, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, Hispanic National Bar Association and the California Faculty Association were among those who signed the amicus brief. The brief is looking to persuade the court to dismiss a legal challenge to California
AB 540. The outcome of this case could affect not only California’s high school graduates but also students in the nine other states including Kansas, Illinois, New Mexico, Nebraska, New York, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin, all of which have enacted similar statutes.
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Writing Café assists students with writing Kristin Lacuesta Clarion Campus Editor
Students can get help with all their writing assignments at the brand-new Writing Café, a learning center with a cozy atmosphere located in the College Success Center, ED 224. English professors Rebecca Rudd, Gina Hogan and Lisa Telesca have created a place where students can ask for one-on-one assistance with writing assignments in any course. Funded by the Title V Bridges to Success Grant, the pilot version debuted in summer 2010. Preliminary results have shown that the Writing Café has been “really successful so far,” according to Rudd. So successful in fact, that the only real negative is that too few spaces available to accommodate the number of students seeking help, Rudd said. “Professors are referring their students to come and visit, and many students have decided to receive the help the Writing Café provides,” Rudd said. Students with Writing Café appointments receive help from a combination of peer tutors, students who have passed an English course with a grade of “B” or better, or a lab supervisor. “I come here at least once or twice a week,” Citrus College student Erika Flores said. “I get help with my English assignments and the [Writing Café] is really helpful to me.” The Writing Café also provides help to students filling out job applications, letters and resumes. “I meet with students to help them with
Daniel Rodriguez, Citrus College Clarion
Students receive help from lab supervisors and peer tutors while in the Writng Cafe, located in the College Success Center in ED 224.
any of their writing assignments they may have,” said writing consultant Pat Monaster said. “The Writing Café is going good, it’s real busy.” Students are limited to two half-hour appointments per week, which cannot be scheduled back-to-back. To make an appointment for a session in the Writing Café, students may log onto the Citrus College website and click on the WCOnline Appointment Center link on the
page. To cancel an appointment, students log into the WCO system and cancel at least 12 hours before a scheduled appointment time. If a student fails to keep more than two appointments, he or she is no longer allowed to schedule am appointment. If a student is more than five minutes late for an appointment, that session time slot will be made available to a walk-in.
Students are reminded to bring along their Citrus College ID cards to their appointments and scan in and out at the front desk before entering the Writing Café. The Writing Café is open Mondays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit www.citruscollege.edu/success or call the College Success Center at (626) 914-8533.
APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED
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SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Honored guests at the Sept. 22 unveiling in Monrovia watched as the panels of art work were uncovered for guests to see. The project took six weeks to complete.
Citrus artists unveil stellar mural
Joseph Thorne
Clarion Staff Writer
Once there was a bleak, white wall on Shamrock Avenue. There is now a kaleidoscopic mural, painted by some of Citrus College’s own. The 54-foot-long mural, on the side of the ITT Systems Corp. building in Monrovia, depicts a transmission of binary data from a satellite at the edge of our solar system to DSN’s antennas in Canberra, Australia, set across several large panels. The mural was unveiled on Sept. 22 in seven parts by the special guests at the ceremony, including a representative from Rep. David Dreier’s office, Mayor Ann Lutz of Monrovia, Citrus College Superintendant/President Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D., and officials from Jet Propulsion Laboratories.
Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Program operator and process manager for ITT, Dawn Medeiros, left, introduced the artists (second from left to right) Citrus professor Mark Wessel, Kathryn Ennis, Helen Espinoza and Irum Navarro.All the artists are from Citrus College and were chosen by Wessel.
The project was a collaboration between the Citrus College art department and NASA/JPL/ITT’s Deep Space Network (DSN). DSN has three 70-meter (ap-
proximately 230-foot) antennas: one in Canberra, Australia; one near Madrid, Spain; and one in the Mojave Desert. Dawn Coy-Medeiros, program
operator and process manager for ITT, submitted a grant nomination for the project in January. She won the grant and decided to team up with Citrus. Art department Professor Mark Wessel was given the task of heading the project and choosing the students who would participate: Helen Espinoza, Kathryn Ennis, Ilya Galitskiy, and Irum Navarro. “It was an easy choice,” Wessel said of the student
artists. “Art is my passion,” Espinoza said. “Coming home at the end of the day, not being able to move
my hand…that was fun.” After ideas were brainstormed, the students sketched the concept for the mural, and a graphic artist overlaid it on the side of the building. This was used as the template for the huge panels, which were completed in six weeks over the summer. “Each of us came into this project not knowing each other,” Ennis said. She added that the reason the project was so successful is that once the artists had gotten acquainted, they “complemented each other’s strengths and weaknesses.” If you would like to see the mural, it is located at 1400 Shamrock Ave. in Monrovia.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
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Filmmakers club is the reel deal Samantha Lopez Clarion Staff Writer
Samantha Lopez, Citrus College Clarion
Filmakers Club members Joe Hefferon, David F. Borunda, Alex Rodriguez and Brandon Lozano man th club’s table dring Club Rush.
Club Rush at Citrus College is a two-day event that generates excitement as students come together around a shared interest or hobby. Fall 2010 Club Rush took place in the quad Sept. 14 and 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with tables, movies, posters, video game consoles and other memorabilia were set up to illustrate the particular interest of each club. The Filmmakers Club was set up both days, and had Alfred Hitchcock, along with other classic movies decorating there tables as they recruited fellow students interested in film and production. The Filmmakers Club was established several years ago, and continues to pique the interest of many Citrus students. President of the Film Makers
Club this semester is sophomore David Borunda, 20, is majoring in Fine Arts. As with many of the clubs on campus, the Film Makers club has undergone quite a few changes this semester. In its previous semester, the club was known as the Film Club, which geared more towards the appreciation of film, as club members gathered for weekly screenings of new movies, and meetings in which they discussed great classic movies and directors. Of course there is no making films without any prior knowledge of film, which is why film appreciation and movie watching continues to be an important underlying element of the clubs current direction, which is actually scripting, producing and shooting movies. “This semester, were running it more like a business; we have camera people, actors, writers,” Borunda said in speaking of the current direction of the club and its members. For those interested in learning the aspects of film production and development, there is always a place for you. So if writing a script, or shooting a video seems a bit intimidating, Borunda assures students that learning and working together is really what the club is all about. Although Citrus does not offer film studies as a major, one of the clubs goals is to educate students about the various courses that are available. As president of the club, Borunda has taken many of the courses Citrus offers on film studies and production, and is currently enrolled in Theresa Villenueve’s movie appreciation course this fall. “Networking is the key to success in Hollywood. It’s all about who you know,” Borunda said. The club is already putting its networking into motion in allying with other clubs and groups on campus. On day one of Club Rush, Borunda began talking with prospective members of the club who coincidentally are members of a band and are interested in shooting a music video. Talk of teaming up with the band and shooting a music video have led Borunda and fellow members of the club to consider having a music video contest this semester. Borunda is also considering a short film contest, along with a film festival here on the campus. to get more students involved. In the words of Filmakers Club advisor, communications professor Villenueve, the club “is what you make it.” With a new name, a new president and a new direction, the Film makers club is definitely one worth keeping an eye on. If you’re interested in becoming a member of the Filmmakers Club, stop by the conference room in the campus center, where meetings are held every Thursday at 2:30 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
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Librarians talk about their new jobs at Citrus
Sarah Bosler Public Services Librarian Q. Why did you choose Citrus over any other colleges? A. I like the family feel of the Citrus community. Everyone is so warm and welcoming. They make me want to stay a very long time.
Q. How has your experience at Citrus been thus far? A. Ever since the day I got the call to accept the position, I continue to be impressed with the warmth and friendliness of the Citrus Community. The campus is beautiful, the faculty and staff are helpful and welcoming, students are polite and ambitious and the library staff is amazing! I have been so pleased too at the diversity of the campus community and the support services that are in place. I feel confident that the faculty and staff at Citrus (including myself) believe that every student can succeed. Q. Some people say that the library of the future will have fewer books, what do you think? Q. What was the hiring process like for you? A. After already working here nine months as a librarian in a temporary position, I was comfortable with the interviewing process. Q. How long have you been a librarian? A. I have been a librarian for seven years.
Lanette Granger Systems Librarian
Q. Prior to becoming a librarian, where else have you worked?
A. In the library world, this is an issue we discuss often. I believe overall, yes, libraries of the future may have less books and more online resources; however, it doesn’t mean I think that should happen. I’ve been working in high schools for the past 11 years, and not everyone has access to computers at home. Therefore, offering print books students could carry around with them for research or recreational reading was key to their success as a lifelong learner. In a society that is saturated with commercial ventures, it’s kind of nice to be in the “business” of libraries where patrons don’t have to “buy anything” per se. If we have fewer print books and magazines, etc. we limit the public’s access to information and
that goes against all things libraries stand for. On the other hand, I live on the internet. I am constantly amazed at the info-nuggets at our fingertips. I think there is great value in being able to access information online. It’s convenient, it saves paper and physical space. However, this easy access to information is often compared to a fire hydrant. When you turn it on, you may just drown in a huge wave of information. Since anyone can post on the Internet, users really need to be more critical in order to decipher quality versus crap (excuse my candor). Quality online databases help users navigate the vast information landscape, but at a cost. Luckily Citrus College students have many great databases at their dis-
posal. I also encounter many students who do not feel confident navigating around these complex databases and the web in general. They often lack the skills to find the best sources online. And that is what has drawn me to work in libraries, to teach students how to access, evaluate and use information effectively and ethically.
A. Prior to becoming a librarian, I worked for my husband’s business at Granger’s Air Conditioning & Heating Co. and as a library aide IV at Glendora Public Library.
have fewer books, what do you think? A. With eBooks available, I would not say the future will have fewer books.
A. My family consists of my husband, Roger A. Granger, and three daughters, Laurie, Kari and Kristy Granger. Kristy is attending Citrus for her second year.
Q. How has your experience at Citrus been thus far? A. Presently, my experience at Citrus has been making a lot of decisions now that there are two new librarians here.
Q. How have libraries changed since you first became a librarian? A. Since becoming a librarian, I have noticed the popularity of electronic resources and the change in format of audio-visual media. Q. Tell me about your family?
Q. Is there anything else that you would like to share with the students on campus? A. I would like the students to know the library staff is always willing to help them, and to come to library to learn what we have to offer them to succeed here at Citrus
Q. Some people say that the library of the future will
Q. Tell me about your family? A. My husband Adam and I enjoy hanging out with our two Whippets (dogs), Phoenix and Mojo. My husband works in home renovation and is a musician and former high school English teacher and graphic designer.
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L.A. COUNTY FAIR
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
Guests have a wide variety of games and attractions to choose from upon entering the L.A. County Fair, and dozens of different prizes to win.
Students, staff enjoy annual county fair
Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Above:Among the popular games and activities going on at the L.A. County Fair, the Coca-Cola bottles at the ring-toss appeared as a neverending sea of glass. Right: One of the many interesting foods at the LA County Fair is the fried Oreos. They are deep fried and drizzled with chocolate syrup and sprinkled with powdered sugar, they’re perfect for those who have a sweet tooth, and those who want to branch out and try something different.
Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Students and staff from Citrus College were admitted into the Pomona fairgrounds free of charge on Sept. 15 as it was “Citrus College” day at the LA County Fair. An afternoon parade featured the Glendora police and fire departments, Glendora High School cheerleaders and many other organizations representing the city. Included in the parade was Geraldine M. Perri, Ph. D, Citrus College’s superintendent/president. Also in attendance was the Citrus College Night Shift Pop Rock Ensemble, directed by Geno Munoz. Students and staff strolled around, enjoying every aspect of the fair riding any of the 70 rides, playing carnival games, shopping at the more than 600 vendors, checking out the many interesting exhibits or eating fried food specialties. “[The LA County Fair] was pretty fun,” Owl Bookshop worker Nelson Hua, 23, said. “We got some good music from the Night Shift Pop Rock Ensemble. The food was also really great.” The Los Angeles County Fair is located on the Pomona Fairplex grounds on Arrow Highway and is open until Oct. 3. Regular adult admission (13+) is $12 and kids (6-12) get in for $7.
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Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
The fair mascots engaged with onlookers during the Glendora Day/Citrus Day Parade, while tossing beaded necklaces to adults and children alike.
there is still time...
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
A Living Daylight
Poptronic is the perfect name for the debut full length album of this Los Angeles based group, combining hooky electronic elements with traditional pop formulas. A Living Daylight is surfacing from their yearlong recording experience in the dark, wet undergrounds of downtown LA into the bright, life giving sunlight which is their own creative interpretation of the future of their music careers. Looking ahead, the blue sky of deserved musical success, we will all have one eye tightly squinted , and the other blissfully focused on the bright glare of the right-brained, high conceptual life that A Living Daylight represents; they’re a confident pick for the next blow up group of 2010. Showtimes: Wednesday, September 29; 7, 8, 9, and 10 p.m. www.alivingdaylight.com
Barnyard Racers Pig Racing Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
The enormous but beautiful Clydesdales horses strolled down the parade route at the L.A. County Fair.
Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Superintendent/President Geraldine M. Perry, Ph.D., of Citrus College and Dr. Patricia Rasmussen, Citrus College trustee, drive down the parade route at the L.A. County Fair and wave to onlookers.
Come see the most unique racing show presented in today’s market! All Creatures Barnyard Racers has the fastest racing pigs in North America, who will race snout to snout and slab to slab, slippin’ and slidin’ and kickin’ up mud as they streak down the “ham stretch” to reach their ultimate goal – an OREO cookie! Don’t miss the exciting element to our swifty swine competition – racing chickens! Watch these cluckers as they chase each other around the track and try not to “fowl” their opponents as they vie for the position of top bird. You’ll have a squeal of a good time Sept. 4 – Oct. 3 in FairView Farms, presented by Ralphs. Showtimes: Saturdays-Sundays & Labor day; 11 a.m., 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays; 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 p.m. Fridays; 1, 3, 4:30, 6, 7:30, and 9 p.m.
C.G. Ryche National PBS Artist and Master Percussionist, C.G. Ryche has been called a “visionary composer” and a “modern day Roger Waters” and for the first time brings his world-class band to perform live at the L.A. County Fair. C.G.’s live concerts have been called “Pink Floyd meets Stomp” and his live concert DVD was called a “must see for the whole family” by PBS and currently airs nationwide on public television. Ryche's live performance is a multicultual journey that introduces people of all ages to the beauty & the "X-Factor" of percussion from around the world. Feel the beat Sept. 30 at the Coca-Cola Stage. Showtimes: Thursday, Sept. 30; 7, 8, 9, and 10 p.m. Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion
Attendants of the fair, young and old, enjoyed walking through funhouses like Mardi Gras (above). Mazes, funhouse mirrors and a slide at the end are sure to offer guests a fun time.
Courtesy of: www.lacountyfair.com/2010/entertainment/shows
SPORTS
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SEPTEMBER 29, 2010 Erica Irigoyen
Sports - erica.irigoyen91@verizon.net
Soccer player thrives on friendly competition Brandon Lozano Clarion Staff Writer
As she was growing up, Lauren Reyes tried gymnastics, volleyball, and tee ball, but she always came back to soccer Reyes, now a 19-year-old sophomore at Citrus College and a resident of La Verne, started playing with the American Youth Soccer Organization when she was 5 years old. Reyes loved the sport, and by time she was 12, she was competing in club soccer. At San Dimas High School, Reyes added four years of varsity soccer to her resume. In her junior and senior years, Reyes was awarded 1st team All-Valle Vista League honors. She was also recognized as All-Valle Vista League honorable mention as a sophomore. “After trying other sports, for some reason I always wanted to play soccer,” Reyes said, “I always came back to it.” As an art major she was not planning play at Citrus but she changed her mind when she met head coach Tim Tracey. He made Reyes feel welcome, she said, giving her a tour of the campus and talking to her about the women’s soccer program. Now in his eighth season with the
Western State Conference South, with a five the fundamentals of the game. record of 4-9-1, 6-12-3 overall. With 20 She also coaches the girls’ junior varsity players, 7 of them returning this season, the team at Claremont High School during team has positive outlook with the goal of winter; a position Tracey offered her last making playoffs. year. In her first season at Citrus, Reyes played Tracey, who is a graduate of Claremont, and started 15 games as a center defender, has been the head coach for the Claremont missing some because of two convarsity girls’ soccer team cussions she suffered. In her first since 2000. Lauren is a good season, she also contributed two Reyes plans to transfer to goals and one assist. the University of Redlands leader and her “I felt accomplished starting, or another D-III university, maturity is inspir- play soccer and graduate seeing as how I wasn’t originally going to play,” Reyes said. with a degree in art to puring other girls to The 5-foot-3-inch center desue a career in illustration work hard. fender goes out to every game in drawing or painting. with resolve “Win big or go She also enjoys watching Tim Tracey Arsenal, her favorite soccer home,” she said. Head Coach team in the English PreReyes’s presence on the field has been inspirational for new mier League on television. players such as freshman Jasmine Williams, “I like playing the competition because it who plays forward and has two goals and makes you as an individual and the team two assist this season. better,” Reyes said. “Lauren works hard and plays good at The women’s soccer team played Santa her position. That inspires the other girls to Monica in their first Western State Conferplay better,” Williams said. ence game at home that resulted in a 1-1 Reyes also loves working with children; tie, to improve their record to 4-1-3. her job at the Arena in Upland allows her to The Owls’ next home game will be do that. She teaches kids under the age of against Glendale on Oct. 1 at 3 p.m.
“
Brandon Lozano, Citrus College Clarion
Lauren Reyes, 19, center defender is one of seven returners this season.
women’s soccer team, Tracey describes Reyes as “one of our most stable defenders on the team.” “We build our defense around her and our other center back, Alex Vitiello,” Tracey said. “Lauren (Reyes) is a good leader, and her maturity is inspiring other girls to work hard. I’m looking at a very strong season this year,” Tracey said. Last season the Owls finished sixth in the
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Despite loss, volleyball shows flashes of brilliance Upcoming Volleyball Games (Home only) Oct. 1 Santa Barbara 6 p.m. Oct. 5 LA Pierce 7 p.m. Oct. 15 Bakersfield 7 p.m. Oct. 22 Glendale 7 p.m. Oct. 26 Canyons 7 p.m. Nov 2 West LA 7 p.m.
Zachary Crehan Clarion Staff Writer
Despite being swept in three sets by the Cuesta College Cougars on Friday, and falling to 2-4 for the season, the Citrus College women’s volleyball team displayed flashes of brilliance in its most entertaining home game yet. The crowd, some donning face paint to show support for the Owls, were eagerly awaiting what promised to be a good game as the two teams appeared evenly matched in both intensity and athleticism early into the first set. “The energy from the crowd really helps energize our players,” coach Shin Jung said. Despite the contribution from the home crowd, lapses in the Owl’s defense allowed the Cougars to take a 20-16 lead and ultimately win the first set, 25-20. In the second set, outside hitter Lindsey Mitchell scored three separate kills on setups from Lauren Walsh to put Citrus ahead 25-24 with a chance to win the nail-biting set.
In the following rally the Cougars sent the ball out of bounds, leading many in the stands to believe the Owls had won. The crowd erupted into a chorus of boos after referee Don Duran called an attack error and ultimately gave the Cougars the chance to battle back and win the set, 27-25. The strain of the second set appeared to have an effect on the Owls, who struggled with rotation errors throughout the third set. “That’s just poor volleyball,” athletics trainer Steve Handy said as he watched the Owls struggle with mental mistakes, allowing the Cougars to sail to a 12-25 win in the final set. “Aside from the third set, this game really illustrates how competitive the junior college level is,” Cuesta head coach Roche Nystrom said. The next home game for Citrus volleyball is scheduled for today against Fullerton.
Zachary Crehan, Citrus College Clarion
Lauren Walsh, sophomore setter is setting the ball during Friday’s game against Cuesta College.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
SPORTS
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Water polo player stirs up excitement Nancy Alkana Clarion Staff Writer
Dylan Rudy, a 19-year-old, 2-meter diver from Covina, recorded 31 goals and 10 assists in 2009 for the men’s water polo team. Rudy played in all 28 games, starting in 25, and continues to step it up in the 2010 water polo season. Rudy began swimming at age four, but later wanted to play a more competitive sport. Rudy started his water polo career at Charter Oak High School where he played all four years, including three on varsity. Clearly he loves the sport. “What is more perfect than treading water, trying to throw a ball, while fighting off the opposing team,” Rudy said. Rudy’s goal for himself and for the team is to step it up. “I want to be a threat to the other teams,” he stated firmly. “Dylan is a very aggressive player,” said newly appointed head coach Brandon Rivas. “Not only does he have leadership qualities, but is bringing a new level of intensity to the team.” Assistant coach Tony Pearson, 21, has high expectations for Rudy as well. “I am excited to see what Dylan does this year,” he said. “If Dylan was a
To prep for a game, Rudy does intense drills that require a lot of physical stamina. One exercise requires the players to hold a 1-gallon Arrowhead jug above their heads, and tread water, until the jug is empty. “Many of the players struggle with this drill and often can not complete it,” Coach Pearson said. Rudy admires Tim Kyle, the women’s water polo head coach. “Kyle works hard in everything he Yusuf Ali, Citrus College Clarion does,” Rudy said. “Even though he is not New head coach Brandon Rivas is getting our coach, I look up to him for always prepped and testing out the waters of his new offering a helping hand to anyone who is team. need.” Rudy hopes to transfer to the University of California, Berkeley to major in business. “I enjoy math and would say it is my Yusuf Ali, Citrus College Clarion favorite subject. Anything with numbers 2-meter diver Dylan Rudy, 19, is ready for the is good,” Rudy said. water polo season. The season began Sept 8 at home against Chaffey College, with a win 19celebrity, I could picture him being Rus10. sell Crowe, like in ‘Gladiator.’” Rudy recorded three goals and three The 6-foot, 165 lb sophomore pracassists. tices everyday and constantly encourages The next home game is scheduled his teammates to strive harder. Rachel Fuller against the 4-6, LA Valley College, “I am very vocal and believe it is imClarion Staff Writer today at 3 p.m. portant to be hard on my teammates to As the 2010 Citrus College men’s water ensure a strong team,” Rudy said. polo season unfolds, the team’s new head coach has already dived into his new role. Although he is new to the position, the Citrus College Aquatic Center is not an unfamiliar place for Brandon Rivas. Before playing for the Owls in 2007, Rivas had a successful water polo career at Charter Oak High School. However, the events that led to his affinity for water polo were somewhat coincidental. “It happened by chance and circumstance,” Rives said. “In high school, I started out playing football, but it made my asthma worse. A few of my friends were on the water polo team so they suggested I try it out.” And with that, Rivas splashed into a successful career that would flourish, and ultimately lead him to finding his soul mate, record-breaking owl, Crystal Fabela. The two are now married and have a one-year-old son. With only a few returners on the team, Rivas is still testing the waters with his approach to coaching. Nevertheless, the team members are beyond satisfied with Rivas’ coaching tactics. “He makes practice more fun,” returner Andrew Gallegos said. “But he still pushes us hard and retains a good work ethic.” Returner Greg Yokomizo agrees. “Brandon really breaks down the fundamentals of water polo with his coaching style,” Yokomizo said. “He simplifies the Daniel Rodriguez, Citrus College Clarion game and pushes us to focus more on our defense.” Fighting Owls running back no. 24 Brandon Stansell dodges a tackle and carries the ball for a Although this is Rivas’ first year as a Citrus College first down. head coach, responsibilities of coaching score to 17-6. Citrus running back Brandon Stansell are not completely foreign to him. Rivas has spent the past three years as Everything went downhill for the Owls had 101 yards on 18 carries. the top assistant coach for the Citrus after that as the entire second half was “The running back [Stansell] was a women’s water polo team. dominated by Bakersfield. dynamic player,” said Bakersfield head With a new wife, a new son, and a new Bakersfield running back Dean-Johncoach Jeff Chudy. “He made a lot of career, life seems to be working out quite son finished the night with 101 yards on yards with unbelievable runs and broke a fruitfully for Rivas. 11 carries and two touchdowns while fel- lot of tackles. He made us look pretty With a relaxed yet authoritative disposilow quarterback Negron completed 11 of foolish.” tion, it is clear that Rivas was the right 20 passes for 222 yards and two touchCitrus College head coach Ron Ponchoice for head coach. It seems as though downs. ciano had little to say after the game. “I he didn’t choose water polo, but water “We could have put a lot more points can’t really say anything positive right polo chose him. Some of the most imporon the board then 17 in the first half,” now; we didn’t have that fight in us,” he tant blessings in his life might never have Negron said. “The second half we said. “It’s always tough when you play happened as they did if it weren’t for that started getting it together and just played someone better than you.” first dive into the pool many years ago. a whole lot better.”
Owls find themselves defeated by Renegades The No. 2 team in the conference shows up the Fighting Owls during the most recent home game. Daniel Rodriguez Clarion Staff Writer
After a tough 38-24 loss to No. 12 College of the Canyons a week prior, The No. 19 Citrus College Owls (1-2) looked to bounce back against undefeated No. 2 Bakersfield College (4-0) on Sept. 25 at Citrus Stadium. Both teams struggled at the start of the game until Citrus quarterback Blake Loncar completed a pass to wide receiver BJ Oyefeso that set up a 31-yard field goal by kicker Eric De Lira to take an early Owl lead. Celebrations didn’t last long as the Bakersfield offense marched down the field and set up a 3-yard touchdown by running back Julian Dean-Johnson to regain the lead and end the first quarter. On the opening drive of the second quarter, the Citrus offensive line gave up a momentum killing sack that later forced the Owls to punt the ball away. On the following play, Bakersfield quarterback Lyle Negron completed a 42-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Leandre West to take a 14-3 lead. The Citrus offense responded by getting into Bakerfield’s red zone but could only do so much as an illegal procedure penalty held the Owls to another De Lira field goal. With 12 seconds left before the half, Bakersfield kicker Josh Gallington nailed a 21-yard field goal that brought the
New water polo coach makes a big splash
ENTERTAINMENT Natalie Miranda
Entertainment Editor - mirandanatalie@ymail.com
Dancing with the Stars 8 P.M. on ABC
With more than 21 million viewers tuning into ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” premiere Monday, Sept. 20, it’s evident that America is still in love with the show. On its 11th season, the show has a new cast of stars being judged by how well they cha-cha, tango and glide across the dance floor each week. The buzz from Monday night’s premiere revolved around Jennifer Grey, whom many may recognize as Baby from the movie “Dirty Dancing.” Despite her breakdown during dance rehearsal, she managed to dance her way to the top, receiving the highest score of the night. Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, is another “star” that received buzz. It wasn’t for his dance moves, but rather for his lack thereof. In only being able to rehearse five days prior to the show’s premiere, it became evident to America that “The Situation” has little dance talent aside from fist pumping. The real question a lot of viewers share is why Mike “The Situation,” of “Jersey Shore” and Audrina Patridge of “The Hills,” have been cast as stars on the show. When did airing your dirty laundry on a reality show grant someone stardom? Maybe “DWTS” has become a little desperate this season in casting, but looking at Monday night’s success, it doesn’t seem to matter. With “DWTS” only real competition on Monday nights being “Two and a Half Men,” the show can take a bow, as it continues to be ranked among America’s favorites this fall. McClatchy-Tribune Services
2010 Hawaii Five-O 10 P.M. on CBS
Move over all you sexy “CSI” and “Without a Trace” cast members. CBS’s new hit series “Hawaii Five-0” is here. The show aired Monday night, after weeks of preview teasers that were packed with sexy, funny action. Although the show is a remake of the original “Hawaii Five-0” in the late 60s, the plot and the theme song are still the same. The pilot opened up with Det. Steve McGarrett (played by actor Alex O'Loughlin) returning home to Oahu to investigate his father’s murder he witnessed through a phone call. Determined to find the person who
murdered his father, McGarrett’s arrives to his hometown greeted by Hawaii’s governor, who in return of keeping the island clean of terrorist gives Det. McGarrett her full support to do things his way. McGarrett meets Det. Danny “Danno” Williams played by actor Scott Cann, who also moved to the island in hopes of keeping Oahu streets clean for his 8-year-old daughter. The dynamic duo’s chemistry starts off on the wrong foot, but flourishes into a funny and sexy bro-mance the streets of Oahu aren’t ready for. McGarrett and Williams decide they need locals to join their team in order for the investigation to be a success.
Chase
10 P.M. on NBC
“The Chase” an NBC television series which debuted on Sept. 20, follows an elite team of U.S. Marshalls who fervently hunt down America’s most wanted and dangerous fugitives. Set in Texas, the show brings to the screen all the true American grit of the Lone Star State, not only in its setting, but in its characters. Kelli Giddish, known for her roles on “All My Children,” “Damages,” and her starring role in the series “Past Life,” plays the sharp-witted, cowboy boot-wearing, tough and focused U.S. Marshall Annie Frost. She is always thinking about the case. Before the opening scene, a black screen states that the U.S. Marshalls apprehended 90,000 fugitives in 2009. The show opens with a chase through a Texas rodeo and ends with a karate-laced fist-fight. The opening basically sums up the episode. The action is fast and intense; however, the dialogue seems forced, even interjected, between the chase and fight scenes. An attempt is made to display the process of catching fugitives. The marshalls have to think and work one step ahead of their prey. This element of the show is the most interesting. The team must learn about the fugitive and anticipate his or her movements in order to catch them. The show’s award-winning producer
Jerry Bruckheimer is known for the “CSI” franchise, “The Amazing Race,” and the blockbuster “Pirates of the Caribbean” trilogy. Jennifer Johnson was an executive producer of “Cold Case” and “Lost,” and produces along with Bruckheimer. David Nutter, of “X Files” fame, executive produced and directed the pilot. Cole Hauser takes the supporting role as Frost’s partner, U.S Marshall Jimmy Godfrey, a good old boy and genuine All-American. Fans might recognize him from his film roles in “2 Fast 2 Furious,” “The Break
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Chin Ho Kelly, played by Daniel Dae Kim a wrongfully accused ex-detective gets the chance to get back the job of his dreams and invites along his younger hot cousin Kono, who recently graduated from the police academy. With this new fresh and hip team, the show promises to bring everything a viewer wants in a TV show. “Hawaii Five-0” is definitely bringing sexy back with this action-packed drama that takes place on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii. If these are the things you look for in a TV show, then catch “Hawaii Five-0” on Mondays at 10 p.m. on CBS.
Up,” and “Paparazzi.” Godfrey is quick with a cowboy quip and always at his partner’s side. Amaury Nolasco fills out the team as Marco Martinez, the intelligence guy. Nolasco was seen in the series “Prison Break.” Rose Rollins is featured as Daisy Ogbaa, the weapons and tactical expert of the group. Rollins played on “The L Word.” Jesse Metcalfe rounds the tvsquad.com team as Luke Watson, a fresh, young U.S. Marshall from Washington, D.C. Metcalfe appeared on “Desperate Housewives.” Watson is clued in on how the team works, and how things work in Texas. It’s a fairly decent plot-device to inform the viewer as well. “The Chase” is far from ground-breaking. If fans of “Law & Order” are looking for less drama, and fans of “CSI” are looking for more punch, “The Chase” might be right up your alley.
Grey’s Anatomy 9 P.M. on ABC
fall favorites
FALL TV SHOWS
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
After 11 murders at Seattle Grace Hospital and a group of surgeons left to recover from the horrifying event, “Grey’s Anatomy” kicked off last Thursday leaving no viewer disappointed in the first episode since the tragic season finale. On May 20, ABC aired the most dramatic season finale in “Grey’s Anatomy” history, and viewers knew the season premiere had a lot to live up to. Last season, Seattle Grace Hospital was left in shambles when a former patient’s husband, Mr. Clark, returned to the hospital on a quest to kill every surgeon who participated in his late wife’s surgery. His wife was pronounced brain dead and after the surgery was signed off by the chief, Derek Shepherd, to be taken off of life support. While on his pursuit to “take out” Dr. Shepherd, Dr. Lexie Grey and Dr. Webber, Mr. Clark goes on a killing spree, shooting anyone and everyone who gets in his way. The premiere of Grey’s consisted of bringing us back to the season finale and the after-math of how the doctors are attempting to cope with such a dramatic time in their life. Although each doctor has a different way of coping with such a dramatic incident, their near-death experiences have left them all thinking about what is most important in their life. What seems to be like an exciting, dramatic and everything-but-disappointing new season, “Grey’s Anatomy” airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. on ABC.
Glee
8 P.M. on FOX Now in its second season on FOX, “Glee” continues to captivate audiences instead of falling into a sophomore slump as some shows tend to do. This season, McKinley High welcomes several fresh faces. Filipina singing sensation Charice steps in as Sunshine Corazon, giving Glee Club’s lead female vocalist Rachel Berry (Lea Michele) a run for her money. Also joining the cast is Dot Jones as Coach Beiste the new female football coach. Beiste rivals the ferocious nature of Cheerios coach Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch), laying the foundation for future confrontations. Instead of performing usual show tunes in the first episode, the group sang contemporary hits such as “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, in honor of the national competition to be held in New York City this season, and Lady Gaga’s “Telephone.” With the new additions and slight songchoice changes, the aspects of “Glee” that audiences loved in the first season, are still ever present. Sylvester’s verbal barbs are as cutting and witty as ever, and with the addition of new enemy in Coach Beastie, the sarcastic oneliners viewers have come to love will surely be the highlight of many future episodes. Spanish teacher and Glee Club adviser Will Shuester (Matthew Morrison) is as noble and dedicated to his students as ever, a sane counterpoint to the chaos that goes on around him. This season, the show is sure to spotlight more Billboard hits and feature more A-list celebrities. Britney Spears was this week’s special guest star. Gleeks rejoice: “Glee” is back and better than ever. So watch “Glee” on Tuesday’s at 8 p.m. on FOX.
ENTERTAINMENT
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Haugh Performing Arts Center Season Performances Bayanihan Philippine Dance Saturday, Oct. 2, 8 p.m. Tickets: $28 Student & Senior: $26 16 & under: $14
www.haughpac.com
Cultural dances from different nationalities are sometimes the most enlightening. On Oct. 2 at 8 p.m., the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company is coming to the Haugh Performing Arts Center to bring an ancient tradition from the Philippines that signifies working together.
Drumline Live
www.haughpac.com
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 8 p.m. Tickets: $20 Student: $10
Jack Jones Sunday, Oct. 10, 2 p.m. Tickets: $32 Student & Senior: $30
www.haughpac.com
Most remembered for his rendition of The Love Boat theme song, Jack Jones returns to Citrus along with Fame songwriters Alan and Marilyn Bergman. With a career of more than 50 albums, Jones will showcase songs such as “Yellow Bird,” “The Way We Were,” and “Windmills of Your Mind.”
Guitar heaven indeed Jonathan Pettitt
Clarion Staff Writer
Carlos Santana, the Latin king of guitar, recently released an album titled “Guitar Heaven, The Greatest Guitar Classics Of All Time.” In this album Santana pays homage to some rock ‘n’ roll legends are: Def Leppard, Rolling Stones and AC/DC to just name a few. When I was first told that Carlos Santana was due to release a new album I was ecstatic. After further research I learned that Carlos was covering songs that he believed were great. It must be an honor for the artists who wrote the songs to have Santana put his own twist on it. One would imagine that he would do justice to the songs covered, and he does just that.
Keep in mind Santana has been playing guitar and writing his own music for more than 40 years and has sold more than 100 million records. The first song rightfully is Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.” The opening guitar sounds as if Jimmy Page was playing it himself. On the vocals is the great Chris Cornell (former Audioslave, Soundgarden). Cornell’s vocals hold perfect rhythm with Santana’s guitar riffs. Many bands have attempted to cover this song properly but Santana and Cornell nailed it. Track two is the wildly familiar Rolling Stones song “Can’t
santana.com
You Hear Me Knocking.” As with all other songs on the record Santana has special guests. This song triumphs with the help of the Velvet Revolver and Stone Temple Pilot’s lead singer, Scott Weiland. Weiland takes the vocals to another level, as expected, while Santana throws in bits of his style with a great solo. All in all this song is perfect and is one of the better songs on the album. Next, the song that the “God” himself, Eric Clapton could be proud of. He wrote it. Santana with the help of Matchbox 20’s Rob Thomas cover Cream’s “Sunshine Of Your Love.” If you are unfamiliar with the song you will be reminded quickly with the opening guitar riff. Thomas offers great vocals but still cannot compare to Eric Clapton. The song is still decent. Another catchy song is “Photograph” made famous by 80s hair metal band Def Leppard. Provid-
ing vocals on this song was American Idol contestant Chris Daughtry. Personally I’m not a fan of Chris Daughtry or his band but his voice stands out on this song. Daughtry brings out a little side of country in this song that is new and surprising. Finally, you can’t possibly title an album the “Greatest Guitar Classics of All Time” without a Jimi Hendrix song. Joe Cocker and Santana make this song with a more bluesy/gospel feel. The organ and guitar blend perfectly to the mood of the album. Santana reaches as great quality as Jimi would have done himself. From one guitar legend to the other this song is all around good. The only complaint I have about this album is Carlos and Nas’s version of one of the most recognizable rock song of all time, AC/DC’s “Back in Black.” If you are going to cover an AC/DC song please don’t turn it into a hip-hop song. The styles of AC/DC and Nas just don’t coincide very well. I can respect Santana for trying something new, but unfortunately it doesn’t work for me. Other than the mishap with “Back in Black,” Santana’s “Guitar Heaven, The Greatest Guitar Classics Of All Time” is worth the time and money. It is definitely different from Santana’s usual Latin structured rock but his guitar is very strong and hasn’t downgraded. Santana pays homage to past artists perfectly and the guest performances are great as well.
‘Wall Street’ hits the box office with a bang You don't have to be a business major to understand what is going on here and how it is relating to past/current market situations, banks are going bankrupt due to false rumors or are legitimately going broke, and the government is having to bail out the banks. This movie is well worth the money spent in a theater viewing this, may take some time to soak in your minds but all in all it was a good movie.
‘Gossip Girl’ falls short of “OMG”s Hopefully this season will improve upon “Gossip Girl’s” recent past dry season and go back to the original drama before all of this “baby mama drama” and before everyone took off for parts all over the world. As per usual, “Gossip Girl” launched with an hour long display of upcoming fashion trends such as Paris-inspired hats, jewelry, and overall ensembles. “Gossip Girl” does not play all its cards in the first episode, so there is still hope for the pace to pick up, surely there will be plot twists as well as surprise guest stars.
online exclusives
Audiences are sure to enjoy this 90-minute performance of high energy drumming and step dancing by Drumline Live, featuring music from Earth, Wind and Fire, Tower of Power, and today’s hip hop and R&B.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
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SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
PERSPECTIVES Courtney Mitchell
17 Opinions & Editorials - clarion.eic@live.com
Wean off technology; read a book Have some spare time? Maybe Books Week (Sept. 25 - Oct. 2), we grab the remote and watch some should be taking advantage of the TV; maybe surf the Internet, freedom we have to be able to catch up on Facebook. read and write whatever kind of Waiting for class to start? Bust genre we so desire. out your iPod for a quick game of Other parts of this world are Tetris. not as fortunate and students Do you ever think of the times should appreciate this luxury by when we didn't have the media embracing the books available and technology to entertain us? and engaging themselves. Back in the day, they had The Banned Books Week books. ProclamaAnd guess tion from THE ISSUE what? We the AmeriReading books for fun still do. can LiFewer brary OUR POSTION and fewer Association We should take advantage of young states, “inthe opportunity we have to be adults actutellectual able to read all different types ally read freedom is of books. We are given the for fun simessential to feedom as others are not, and ply because the presershould embrace it. they do not vation of a like it. free society However, reading is essential to and a creative culture.” the development of young minds. Every year, hundreds of people In elementary school, we wrote attempt to remove books from the book reports on a reading of our shelves of libraries and classchoice. In high school, we were rooms. given books to read through the You have the freedom. Emassigned curriculum. In higher brace it. education classes, we are assigned There truly is a book for everyto do chapter readings of all subone. Many choose to read books jects. because they are inspirational. But what happens when we are Others chose to read books for done with our “assigned” reading? pure imagination. Why do many young minds refuse Each story, whether fictional or to pick up a book and engage true, has a different lesson to be their imaginations? learned; books can help readers There are many different kinds escape into different characters of genres, so we feel it is virtually other than their own, escape into impossible for one person to say, another era that they never expe“I don't like to read.” rienced and escape into a life they Really? There isn’t one book in wish they could attempt. the whole world over the decades It’s like watching TV, only betof years that interests you? ter: you get to use your imaginaIn celebration of Banned tion.
Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion
Donna Davey Clarion Staff Writer
Fear of failure is the greatest obstacle facing today’s community college student. This is especially acute for those of us who are over the age of 30. After being laid off from my human resources job for a bank. I was faced with starting my career all over again. So I gathered up my courage and re-enrolled at Citrus College. The thought that I might fail in meeting my new goal of becoming an educator haunts me. Everyday I face the question: Will I be successful? I never thought the first day of school, I walked on campus with a renewed passion for learning and the hope that the next chapter in my adult life would be amazing. As I walked around campus to re-familiarize myself with classroom locations, I experienced a sense of pride. Finally I was putting my education first.
By then the luminous joy of being a college student again was quickly marred when a young male student looked me over and mumbled under his breath: “Oh God.” Apparently he judged my general appearance as well as my selection of back-to-school clothes less than appealing. Caught in a moment of peer criticism, my heart sank, but I managed to smile at him, shook my head, and in disapproval of his rejection, responded, “How sad.” I briefly looked down at my favorite rock artist T-shirt and my well-worn black-and-white checkered Vans. His rejection was probably based on the judgment that they did not appear age-appropriate to him. As the layers of my adulthood piled on, I let go of youthful concerns about politically correct aesthetics. Later this unpleasant encounter was followed up by a less-than-receptive encounter with an instructor who seemed to write me off as if I were per-
haps not as much in need of her vast wealth of knowledge as students entering college fresh out of high school. As the day wore on, I was beginning to question whether if returning to college had been a wise decision after all. Both of these disheartening experiences had me wondering: would being an older student comfortable in my own skin present a whole new level of obstacles for me for which I was unprepared? I am a 48-year-old returning college student. To get to this point, I have faced the life challenges of working in the corporate world and raising a family. I am eager to re-learn the art of serious studying, even though I struggle with aging eyesight and hearing loss. However, I was not prepared to encounter a hypercritical assessment of my lack of fashion sense or to be disregarded by an instructor. My experiences on opening day could have easily discouraged me from returning to
school But I didn’t let that happen because I want to succeed in reaching my personal goals.ol. Though I was frustrated, I was determined to not be defeated. I think it is normal for us to feel alone, even like outcasts, in an environment that is foreign to us. So now, every day when I am at school, I make an effort to make eye contact with other students, young or old and smile at them as a way of opening the possibility of understanding between us. No matter what our age is, we are all in college to move forward on our own personal journey, to explore a deeper level of thinking, and to discover a greater understanding of life’s mysteries that we had never explored before. We will succeed when we learn to face and overcome our fear of failure.
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Re-entering college: a personal journey
18
PERSPECTIVES
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
COLUMN
America’s College is a long-term investment forgotten treasure from Courtney Mitchell
Clarion Editor in Chief
Take a trip down to your local library; you’ll be glad you did. As a generation who is fast becoming solely reliant on technology and instant access to knowledge at the touch of a button, taking time to use the Dewey Decimal System to find what you are looking for has lost its appeal. Words in print have lost their luster in a world of i-this and i-that. The great advancement in technology has unfortunately overshadowed the importance of what a library is. A library is a quiet place to study, a resource for literature and media, and, most importantly, a seemingly THE ISSUE unlimited Utilizing our libraries space to absorb knowlOUR POSTION edge Sudents should make through the use of our local liwritten braries as well as word. our Learning ReOur very source Center beown Hayden cause they offer Library and more than just books Learning and computers. Resource Center offers a multitude of services and resources free to all Citrus students. Our library is home to approximately 51,000 titles and also carries a wide variety of newspapers, magazines and journals. Textbooks are quite expensive as we all know, but the reserve desk carries copies of many of the textbooks used on campus and are available for use in the library. For those of you who despise lugging books to and from your car throughout the day to get your books and supplies, our library has lockers for a mere 25 cents per use. This could save some aching muscles. Citrus College even offers access to several large databases online that transform our modest library into a never-ending, upto-date source of information. Even for those of us who are tech junkies and prefer the digital world, there are options, too. There are plenty of places to hide out and cram for that big test, media rooms to check out the latest audio and video and rooms specifically designed for study groups to be held on a first come first serve basis. If you are looking for a break from studying, you can check out one of the several faculty and student art shows on display this semester. Oct. 4 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. is California Library Snapshot Day, project of the California Library Association. Every patron of a California Library will be asked to have their photo taken and give a testimonial about why they use the library and how it is important in their lives. All the information that is gathered will be used to advocate the value and importance of libraries to the residents of California. Let’s show lawmakers in Sacramento how important our libraries are to us and to future generations. Libraries are treasure troves of knowledge; explore one today, you will not be disappointed.
My mother has recently become obsessed with The Week, a news magazine that covers the best of the U.S. and International media. Naturally, I have become obsessed with it too. Not only do they cover news, reviews, gossip, opinions and cartoons from all over the world but also put in the best columns from newspapers across the country. One in particular from The Washington Examiner caught my attention: “Is college really worth the cost?” The writer, Michael Barone, said it is impractical to go into debt of “$100,000 or more, only to find that in our new economy, graduates can’t find the high-paying jobs they assumed would be there…” He goes on to state that going to a community college first or getting “training in a specific profession such as plumbing or electrical work, may provide a more secure future.” Michael—may I call you Michael? I really seem to disagree with you on this one. Going to a private school and going into debt seems completely illogical. However, having a degree, regardless of where we get it from and how much money we spend
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on it, will help us in our futures. How can you say we aren’t getting our money’s worth? Long-term payoff is completely worth it. The New York Times recently wrote an article that explains how the value of a college degree is actually growing. Yes, it might take longer to pay off but the statistics don't lie. According to the report, “Education Pays: the Benefits of Higher Education for Individuals and Society,” the average “earnings of full-time workers with bachelor’s degrees were $55,700 in 2008, $21,900 more than those who only finished high school.” Being at a community college, many
Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion
Attack on violent videogames violates free speech rights Austin Paul Adamson Clarion Staff Writer
Violence is prevalent in every form of mass media, whether it is in the descriptive text of a crime novel or in the gruesome account of a murder depicted in an R-rated film. Displays of violence across all artistic channels in communication are protected speech under the First Amendment. In October 2005, however, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger placed a ban on the sale of violent videogames to anyone under the age of 18 in the state of California. This prohibition is a direct violation of freedom of speech. This is why Judge Ronald Whyte (United States Dis-
trict Court for the Northern District of California) ruled that “games are protected by the First Amendment”. As a result, the law has not yet gone into effect. Even if the violation seems minor in the grand scheme, if the Supreme Court rules in favor of California’s ban, restrictions on other existing forms of artistic media will likely follow. On Sept. 14 2010, Stan Lee, creator of countless comic book characters, including Spider-Man and Iron Man, wrote an open letter to all gamers encouraging them to stand up and defend the rights of video game artists. He also mentioned a “national hysteria” that broke out during the 1950s in relation to comic books. The state of Washington passed a law making it illegal
students here are either working on their general education requirements or going into a specialty field such as cosmetology or emergency medical training. Going into a field “such as plumbing or electrical” or even working for your parents might be settling to some people. Just because it might be hard to find a job right now doesn't mean it will always be. My hope for the generation, in which I am proud to be a part of, is that we keep fighting for our dreams and don't settle on a job that isn’t our first choice. Keep going to school, keep advancing your education, and keep pursuing your dreams. It will payoff in the end.
to sell comic books without a license, and the city of Los Angeles outlawed selling “crime comic books” to anyone under the age of 18. Now the Supreme Court has to decide whether videogames are in fact equal with other forms of artistic media and if the same artistic freedoms should be allowed. For example, there are no legal restrictions on the sale of movies to minors. Anyone under the age of 18 has the legal right to buy an R-rated film from a store, or even purchase a ticket to see one in a theater. The movie rating policy is completely voluntary and carries no legal penalties for any organization that doesn’t follow the guidelines. The video game industry has a similar rating system to that of the movie industry. The Entertainment Software Rating Board was established to give consumers information as to the content of the game before it is purchased. On the front of every videogame box is a letter rating with a brief description of what qualified the game for that rating. These ratings are already voluntarily enforced by most retailers who have a policy not to sell a “Mature” M-rated game to someone who is under 17 years of age. Most retailers chose not to stock or sell the 18 and older rating of “Adults Only.” Likewise, mainstream movie theaters voluntarily adhere to a set of rules barring specific age groups from attending certain films, per the recommendation of the Motion Picture Association of America. Instead of fighting artistic, animated interactive violence, California, along with the rest of the country, should be fighting ignorance by informing parents of the ESRB’s rating system rather than chiseling away at the freedom of speech.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
PERSPECTIVES
19
I love you, but I have chosen my Blackberry Sydney Presley Clarion Staff Writer
“There’s an app for that” is Apple’s slogan for its newest iPhone 4 campaign. Steve Jobs is not just a face poking out of a black turtleneck, he means what he says. Cell phones are no longer limited to good old-fashioned games such as “Snake” or must-have AOL messenger capabilities. Nowadays, there are 50,000 applications for the iPhone, 2,000 for the Blackberry, and 10,000 applications for the newest competitor: Android. Many of these applications are fun and or convenient. However, our obsession with cell phone technology is leading us to neglect our human-to-human relationships in the real world. Applications such as “Baby ESP,” which keeps track of your child’s schedule and signals you when it is time to feed your child, worry me. We depend too much on electronics. Some of us rely totally on speed dial and cannot even remember our own home phone number. I worry that in the event of a disaster where our cell phones are unavailable or will not work, we humans will be unable to function. Smart phone owners are not the only ones to be rendered nearly dysfunctional when their digital lifelines are severed. I own what many would call a “not-sosmart” phone and, yes, readers, in the interest of full disclosure, I am hereby acknowledging that I, too, suffer from texting addiction. I used to cuddle up with stuffed bears and dogs in bed. Now they have all been replaced by my cell phone. I check the phone multiple times each hour. Sometimes, I even feel “phantom vibrations” in my pocket, automatically
reach for my phone, then experience a wave of lameness when I discover that no call or text is waiting for me. I am also surrounded by enablers: my mother, who might as well have her Bluetooth device transplanted into her ear; my sister, whose phone is constantly going off with Twitter and Facebook notifications; and the worst of all: my boyfriend. To put his addiction into perspective: in the past six months he has owned two Blackberry phones and three Android phones. He dedicates many of his Thursday nights to downloading new operating systems to one or the other of his phones, or rather trying to get them to turn back on if that process did not go as planned. His only complaint about coming over to my house is that my Wi-Fi connection is weak. Furthermore, when he steps away from his phone to his computer, he is either looking for a new OS, new applications, or new customer reviews on the phone he plans to buy next month. Now do not get me wrong: he is an amazing guy, and I understand his obsession. I have learned a great deal about phones by just being around him. However, I worry there are even worse addicts out there. He sure knows how to make a girl feel special by assigning me my own LED light color when I call him. He used an app for that as well. But this device that for a handful of years has put people in touch with each other might at times be used to tear them apart. When people are focused on their phones, they find it very difficult to refocus their attention to something or someone who may be important. For example, I see couples at dinner both busy on their phones and therefore not speaking to one another This problem extends beyond family re-
Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion
lationships to school, work, and safety on the road. While I was in high school a couple of blocks away from Citrus College, I witnessed countless collisions at the intersection of Barranca Ave. and Foothill Blvd., all because the drivers were texting. No text or call is more important than one’s own safety, or the safety of others, so let those calls go to voicemail and concentrate fully on the people around you. While cell phones are highly convenient, we cannot lose sight of the fact that we were perfectly functioning human be-
ings before mobile devices were first invented. So, dear readers, engage in face-to-face conversation that does not include typing “LOL” or “OMG.” Your Facebook and Twitter can be updated when you get home. So put down your Blackberry long enough to hold your special someone’s hand instead. Make eye contact. Listen. Be in the moment.
COLUMN
Let them know before they go: show your appreciation Erica Irigoyen Clarion Managing Editor
There has been a lot of change in my life between the end of summer and now. Although I had a fulltime summer internship at Southern California Edison, I find that now with a 17-unit schedule I am even busier. Trying to keep up with school, family, friends, and my boyfriend is a tough balancing act. Since getting in the groove of my new classes and learning how all of my professors operate, I have had to cut back on time spent with my boyfriend. He has also had to adjust to the little time we have to see each other and talk throughout the week. He is extremely supportive. He understands that when I am working in the newsroom or studying for a psychology test that I just don't have any time to talk or text him. But even when he knows that I am too busy to text him back, he always sends me a couple of thoughtful texts throughout the day, saying that he hopes I am having a great day and that he can’t wait until the next time he gets to see me.
paging
dr. l ve
Granted, when I stress out about making deadline for a story or have a mini panic attack while thinking of all the things I have to complete before the end of the day, giving up my focus to look at a text message is the last thing I want to do. I think to myself: “I have other things to worry about. I am not going to open my phone and read these messages.” But once all the stress is gone and I take the time to actually read my messages, I am thankful that I have a boyfriend who lets me know that he is thinking about me. I am really grateful for his thoughtfulness
but, I sometimes find it hard to make the effort to reciprocate. Sure, I can just shoot him a text back saying, “thanks for the text, I miss you too,” but does that really show him that I appreciate all of his thoughtfulness and whatnot? No, it really doesn't. If only he could just read my mind and know that I always appreciate everything he does for me. But, unfortunately, he can’t. We are not mind readers. No matter how well we get to know our significant others, we will still never be able to know everything that he or she is thinking at every moment of the day. Which is why we must always make
the effort to communicate. Communication is the key to any successful relationship, even if we are just communicating the fact that we care. Here’s the thing: if you don’t let your boyfriend/girlfriend know that you appreciate the little things that he or she does for you, then how are they supposed to know you care? Do a little something to show them that you are always thinking about them, too, and that you really do value the relationship. It will show your significant other that not only do you notice and remember the things that they do for you but that you value everything about it. So go ahead and mail that sentimental card, send some flowers or even send a sweet text message letting them know how appreciated and important they really are to you. I can guarantee that your loved ones will love it. If you have a questions that you need answered from Dr. Love, email me at: paging.dr.love@hotmail.com.
SPOTLIGHT
20
SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
Courtney Mitchell, Citrus College Clarion
Above: Outside The Pawnshop Skateshop, located in Covina on San Bernardino Rd., hangs old painted on skateboards that draw attention to all that pass by. Left: David Compton, avid skateboarder and architecture major, shows off his tricks on his mini ramp in the back of his shop located in Covina.
“Go back to school. You’ll be five years older in five years, with or without an education.” – David Compton
Right: The Pawnshop Skateshop offers a variety of different skateboards, including a new limited collection of Andy Warhol inspired designs. Courtney Mitchell, Citrus College Clarion
Q&A
Courtney Mitchell, Citrus College Clarion
Q: What is your inspiration? A: My oldest son has spina bifida. Every time I see him, I’m inspired. I’ve seen him overcome so much and I draw my strength from that.
Q: What motivates you? A: The desire to create, it’s more than money or a career. I have a desire to create, an obsession for it. Q: What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue their dreams? A: The only failure is not trying. Thomas Edison or Elbert Hubbard said that. Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received? A: Go back to school, you’ll be five years older in five years, with or without an education. Q: What would you do different? A: I would have been more confident in my abilities when I was younger. But, honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing because all of that has made me who I am. You can visit Compton and support local business at The Pawnshop Skateboard Shop located in Covina at 335 San Bernardino Road.
In the business of pursuing dreams Sonny Giordano
Clarion Staff Writer
Citrus College student David Compton is back in school 18 years later to follow his dreams. A major decision to return to school, and some excellent timing have awakened desires, drive, and passion in this father, fiancé, skater, carpenter, business owner and student. Compton, 33, is now in his second semester in the honors program and majoring in architecture with an emphasis on historical buildings, restoration and repurposing. Compton, who is engaged to be married, is the father of four boys who lives in Covina where he also co-owns and operates a small business which opened in August, The Pawnshop Skateboard Shop. Compton has returned to school after 18 years to achieve something he put off for more than a decade: higher education. He graduated high school at 15 years old, with a California High School Proficiency Diploma. He briefly traveled through the western United States and soon after began work in the construction field, holding jobs off and on at a warehouse, as a garage door
production manager and tow truck driver. Born in Riverside in 1976 to a conservative home consisting of his father, mother and sister; Compton was a latch-key kid while his father worked and his mother pursued her Master’s Degree. He learned carpentry at a young age from his father, and eventually found work in framing and carpentry. He and some friends opened a small screen-printing shop in 2004. Compton soon learned that friendship and business don’t mix. The shop was closed in 2007, “because it was unfulfilling,” he said. He returned to construction, but by that time the economy was weakening and he wanted more from life. Early last year a construction job fell through and David realized he had no job. He decided to return to school after the advice of his mentors spurred reflection on his past and future. On the academic tests he scored high in English and reading comprehension. An appointment with
a Citrus College counselor revealed that he had scored high enough to be eligible for the Honors Program. In honors history, Compton discovered that he had a passion not only for that subject, but also for writing. He combined his knowledge of carpentry with his passion for
history, and he has begun to pursue an architecture major with a focus on the restoration and repurposing of historical buildings.
Courtney Mitchell, Citrus College Clarion