Clarion 2/18/15 by Citrus College Clarion

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diving in The women’s swim team looks to find success as they dive back into the pool . PG. 14

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015 | VOL. XCI, ISSUE 1 tccclarion.com f/ccclarion T@ccclarion

Free speech settlement costs district A recent lawsuit settlement bring changes to campus administrative policies BY EVAN SOLANO

Five months into its two-year process, the new Fine Arts Building beginning to take shape

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ESOLANO@CCCLARION.COM

After a recent lawsuit from a free speech advocacy group, on behalf of a Citrus student, the college has decided to pay an $110,000 settlement to the student and organization that assisted him in the suit and have been forced to change its free speech policy for the second time in a decade. Vincenzo Sinapi-Riddle, a computer science major and president of the Citrus College chapter of Young Americans for Liberty along, help of the free speech advocacy group, Foundation of Individual Rights in Education (FIRE), filed the lawsuit in July of 2014 after Sinapi-Riddle was threatened with removal from campus for solicit-

Turning out ‘fine’ BY STACY SLAUGHTER STAFF WRITER

SSLAUGHTER@CCCLARION.COM

YouTube / Huffington Post

Vincenzo Sinapi-Riddle, president of Young Americans for Liberty.

ing signatures outside the campus’ free speech area in September of 2013. “I wasn’t aware of how [the free speech area] was being enforced until that moment,” recalls Sinapi-Riddle when an administrator confronted him and threatened to kick him off campus. This recent lawsuit filed by Sinapi-Riddle as part of FIRE’s “Stand Up

fter much controversy over funding, the new Fine Arts Building is finally underway. This is after local media as well as open government figures disagreed with the type of funding that was affording the college to start the construction process. The main debate was over the Series 2014D Bonds.

SEE F RE E SP E E CH • PA GE 5

These bonds were the fourth set as part of Measure G, which was voted on in the March 2004 primary election. In essence, the funding comes from capital appreciation bonds (CAB) versus conventional bonds. Fortunately, the issue came to a resolution after California State Legislature passed Assembly Bill 182, thus lowering the interest on the CABs. Funding is one of the major hurdles that had to be overcome in order to break ground on the new Fine Arts Building. Now, the project S E E F IN E ART S • PAGE 5

SPORTS

OWLS UPSET ANTELOPE VALLEY 86 - 82 BY MICKEY ROMERO MANAGING EDITOR

Constructions workers welding the staircase to the frame of the new Fine Arts Building in early February 2015. The 37,000 squarefoot structure is expected to be open for students by summer 2016. (Evan Solano Clarion)

MROMERO@CCCLARION.COM

The men’s basketball team has begun to pile up the wins after a slow start to the season. The Fighting Owls (16-8, 9-3) picked up a big one on Feb.11 when they defeated Antelope Valley (23-5, 11-1) in a matchup of the top two teams in the Western State Conference South Division by a score of 86-83. Citrus seems to be fine tuning their game just in time for a late playoff push. Citrus’ resurgent defense was evident during the come-from-behind

Mickey Romero Clarion

John Roach, Dominique Walker and Ryan Wiley celebrating the Owls’ win against Antelope Valley.

win against 1st place Antelope Valley College. The Owls found themselves behind from the tipoff with some lackluster defense and offensive troubles, including SEE ME N ’ S • PA GE 13

a Pub quiz you can enjoy

Local watering hole Bread & Barley tests your wits while brewing some friendly competition. PG. 9

1935

THE YEAR THAT HAYDEN HALL, THE OLDEST BUILDING ON CAMPUS, WAS DEDICATED.

PAGE 2

LOCAL South Hills teacherstudent sex scandal The arraignment for two South Hills High School teachers was delayed to March 4. An Orange County Judge ruled the continuance on Tuesday morning. Melody Lippert, 38, and Michelle Ghirelli, 30, have both been charged with a misdemeanor count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Both teachers are on paid administrative leave while the district investigates the charges. Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

Ex-Pasadena employee bail reduced for embezzlement case

YouTube

A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge reduced the bail for Danny Ray Wooten, a former city of Pasadena employee. Wooten’s bail was reduced from $1.75 million to $650,000. Wooten, 51, has been accused of embezzling $6.4 million from the city’s public works department. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 25 Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

L.A. County requiring cat owners to spay and neuter pets On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County supervisors unanimously voted 4-0 to require cat owners to spay and neuter their pets. It was proposed by Supervisors Michael D. Antonovich and Hilda Solis in an attempt to minimize the number of feral cats. Statistics show that 29,000 cats were euthanized last year. While the mandate has been approved, the details still need to be worked out before the supervisors vote on the final proposal. Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

Clarion

CURRENT EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

STATE

NATIONAL

Assemblywoman receives backlash over tweet

Crude oil train derails in West Virginia threatening local water supply

YouTube

California Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez is receiving major backlash over her controversial tweet against Islam. The Council of American-Islamic Relations has said the tweet is a hate speech. Melendez, who represents southwest Riverside County, used the hashtag “#standupagainstIslam” in a tweet about the murder of American Kayla Mueller. Melendez has not apologized for the tweet. Source: Los Angeles Times

A train in West Virginia hauling crude oil has derailed and exploded displacing residents and threatening the local water supply. One home has been reportedly destroyed and one person was injured. Oil from the CSX train spilled into the Kanawha River, the source for drinking water for the Kanawha and Fayette counties. YouTube About 2,000 people were at risk of losing water service. Officials said testing showed no crude oil near a water intake valve in one plant. West Virginia American Water told its customers to boil water before usage. Source: CNN

Federal judge in Texas blocks Obama’s immigration executive action United States District Judge Andrew Hanen ruled Monday night to block the executive action Obama took to protect nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants from deportation. Hanen ruled that the administration had failed to comply with the Administrative Procedure Act. The executive action is drawing opposition from 26 state across the country. The Justice Department is expected to appeal the decision.

Labor Secretary to help settle West Coast port dispute U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez arrived in San Francisco in an attempt to help settle the labor dispute. The dockworkers union and maritime association of companies have stopped all negotiations. A total of 29 seaports from Southern California to Seattle have stopped movement of exports and imports include electronics, clothing, produce, and meats. The companies will not pay weekend and holiday wage premiums and accuse the workers of intentionally slowing work to gain bargaining leverage. Source: Los Angeles Times

Psychiatric medication in LA youth According to data obtained by The Times through a Public Records Act request, Los Angeles County officials are allowing the use of powerful psychiatric drugs on far more children in the foster care and juvenile delinquency systems that previously stated. The data show that along with the 2,300 previously acknowledged cases, 540 foster children and 516 children in the delinquency system were given psychiatric drugs. The are approximately 18,000 foster children and 1,000 in the juvenile delinquency system. Source: Los Angeles Times

Source: CNN

MCT Campus

GLOBAL North Korea’s biggest party to celebrate Jong II’s legacy

YouTube

North Korea will stage a military parade, patriotic chants and dance exhibitions in Pyongyang to mark the 73rd anniversary of the birth of the late Kim Jong II who died in 2011. Feb. 16, Kim Jong II’s birthday is known in North Korea as the Day of the Shining Star. Source: CNN

Ukrainian service members continue to lose their lives According to the Ukraine’s Defense Ministry five more Ukrainian service members have been killed within the past 24 hours . The United Nations Security Council voted on a unanimous 15-0 resolution calling for all combatants to abide to a cease-fire which has been more effective on paper than on the ground. Diplomats were left confused as the truce between the Ukrainian government and pro-Russian separatist fell on apart on Tuesday leading to more civilian and combatant casualties. The Council has issued a statement expressing “grave concern at the continued fighting in and around Debaltseve, Ukraine, which has resulted in numerous civilian casualties.” Council members have also asked for a reform in the treatment of detainees to be treated “humanely.” Source: CNN

Clarion

ANNOUNCEMENTS

O W L B E AT

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

C L A R I O N

S N A P S H O T S

Wild art and random photos from our staffers taken around campus

PTK PRESENTS TELOMERE STUDY

Everything you need to know about current events in the campus community. If there is something you want us to cover, email us: contact@ccclarion.com

February 19

TED Talk Thursday: Black History Month

February 26

Speaker, Dr. Claudia Owens-Shields “Actively Combatting Racial Prejudice”

March 5

TED Talk Thursday: Women’s History Month Cameron Wisdom Clarion

March 10 & 11

PAGE 3

The Beta Nu Eta Chapter presented his research covering telomere studies on Jan. 26 to a room-filled audience. Presenters covered the possible age-defying solutions that are found at the tips of human chromosomes which could be the answer to slowing down aging. Look forward to seeing an extensive cover of PTK’s work in Issue 2.

L E T ’ S TA L K T E D TA L K S

Club Rush

Upcoming TED Talks topics showings/discussion in the Campus Center at 1:15 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Schedule TBA

Former Citrus College Athletic Director Dies: Former athletic director, track & field coach and cross country coach Ed Conly passed away on Feb. 8, 2015. Conly was born on Aug. 7, 1929 and served Citrus College for 37 years. Conly began at Citrus in 1952 as a teacher and then started his coaching career in 1953. In 1992, Conly was inducted into the California Community College Track & Field Coaches Association Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy into the campus and state forever.

THE 1000 BLOCK

Incident Reports Property Damage LOCATION: S9 Parking Lot REPORTED: 01/03/15 CASE #: 2015-001 Disposition: Closed

REPORTS ARE PROVIDED COURTESY OF THE CITRUS COLLEGE CAMPUS SAFETY DEPARTMENT. A REPORT IS NOT A STATEMENT OF GUILT.

Drug Law Violation (H&S 11357)

Grand Theft (487 PC)

Vehicle Hit & Run (CVC 20002a)

LOCATION: S5 Parking Lot REPORTED: 01/13/15 CASE #: 2015-002 Disposition: Closed

LOCATION: S4 Parking Lot REPORTED: 10/29/14 CASE #: 2015-003 Disposition: Closed

LOCATION: VT/ Little Theatre REPORTED: 01/15/15 CASE #: 2015-004 Disposition: Open

LOCATION: S4 Parking Lot REPORTED: 01/22/15 CASE #: 2015-005 Disposition: Closed

#whatstrending

LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT OR LIFE ON CAMPUS – FIND IT HERE

QUOTABLE: “I’m here because I want to become a better student. I want to learn how to deal with and balance all things in my life without feeling overwhelmed.” -Armando Mede, student attendee of the Mental Health Workshops

HOOT TWEETS: @WuvsYew: when does spring semester start? @kimchocolate: Is it weird that I actually miss #citruscollege? @StayyAdorablee: Faking-It is recording at #citruscollege again :D ugh I’m gonna die!! @daftendirekkt: Making my final decisions for classes before registration #citruscollege

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CLARION

Evan Solano Margaret O’Neil editor-in-chief Clarion adviser Mickey Romero Stacy K. Long managing editor Clarion adviser Dillon Cooper sports editor Pat Cordova-Goff features editor Staff Writers: Nestor Cruz, Jaclyn Spencer, Megan Bender

Use the hashtags: #CCClarion or #citruscollege to be featured on #whatstrending

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! Send your letters in at ccclarion.com/letters. All correspondence must include your student ID#, major and signature. Letters may be edited for content.

Citrus College Study Abroad Program

FALL 2015

Citrus College celebrates our 27th semester in London, England. This enriching experience enables you to enjoy historical surroundings, grow intellectually and enhance your overall knowledge of the world while making normal progress toward your degree objectives. Earn 12 units of Citrus College transferable credit in courses taught by faculty from Citrus College or one of the other community colleges in the Southern California Foothills Consortium. Theaters, major symphony orchestras, world-class operatic performances, concerts, recitals, ballet performances and an unparalleled range of live rock and ethnic music are just some of the cultural opportunities available. A wide variety of museums and galleries provide opportunities to view many of the world’s artistic masterpieces. • Most courses are CSU/UC transferable and meet general education requirements. • Accommodations, insurance, on-site student services support staff, and central London transit pass included. Group airfare is available. • British Life and Culture class features exciting guest speakers and field trips. • Optional tours explore the great cities and historic sites of Europe. For a brochure, application or more information call the Citrus College Study Abroad Office, 626-914-8560, or visit our website at www.citruscollege.edu/studyabroad FINANCIAL AID IS AVAILABLE TO ELIGIBLE STUDENTS.

INFORMATION MEETING SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2015 1:00 - 2:00 P.M. • CITRUS COLLEGE, CI 159 Early application is essential.

Study Abroad • 1000 West Foothill Boulevard, Glendora, CA 91741-1885 • www.citruscollege.edu

Clarion

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

PAGE 5

Free speech FR O M PA G E 1

For Speech” litigation project, marks the second time Citrus College has been embattled with the nonprofit organization. “Citrus College agreed to eliminate its restrictive ‘free speech zone’ in the face of a FIRE lawsuit back in 2003, but later reinstated its speech quarantine when it thought no one was watching,” the president of FIRE, Greg Lukianoff, said in a statement. The lawsuit was one of seven filed by the nonprofit as part of the project. Other colleges and universities targeted by FIRE were Modesto Junior College, Ohio University, Chicago State University and Iowa State University. In addition to the monetary settlement, which was announced on FIRE’s website on Dec. 3, there have been new revisions to three administrative procedures, AP 5450 “Student Clubs and Organizations”; AP 7102.1 “Prohibition of Harassment: Students and Employees; and in regards to the free speech zone, AP 3900 “Time, Place, and Manner.” “When we made the final agreement with the plaintiffs attorneys, [the changes] had to be implemented immediately, so we had to go before shared governance committees, so that they were aware of the changes” said Arvid Spor, Ed.D, vice president of academic affairs and interim vice president of student services. According to Spor, administrative procedures do not require the approval of the board of trustees. However, the practice at the Citrus has been to bring administrative procedures before the board of trustees to keep board members informed of changes. The Community College League of California (CCLC) is a nonprofit organization that provides legal advice on administrative procedures for most community colleges in California, including Citrus College “Most colleges subscribe to the

Fine Arts FR O M PA G E 1

appears to be hitting its stride. As many students may have noticed the Fine Arts Building has been under construction for the past few months. Since the very eventful demolishment of the original building in Fall 2014, the green fences have been surrounding the progress of the new structure. Director of facilities and construction, Fred Diamond along with Pinner Construction have played leading roles in the alterations taking place at the Fine Arts Building. “It’s going really well. They’re on schedule,” Diamond said. Pinner Construction is five months in to the 2-year-long project. According to the Pinner Construction website the scheduled date of completion is summer 2016.

service the CCLC has, but in the case of AP 3900 some colleges have modified it,” Spor said. “[CCLC] have lawyers that work on all the administrative and board procedures (BP’s) that are out there.” All BP’s and AP’s are looked at and revised approximately every three years unless an issue arises, to which Spor claims that Shared Governance committees would then begin the process of reviewing the BP and AP to make the necessary changes. “Had there been any, then that would have been looked at and addressed,” Spor said. “There are free speech advocates that believe that anything that’s paid for by public dollars, should be able to have the right to free speech anywhere within that domain, whether that be a park or school, but the reality is, that doesn’t always occur.” According to Spor, since the 2003 lawsuit, the administration went back and forth on the idea, but eventually re-established the free speech zone to the Campus Center Mall located between the Hayden Memorial Library and the Student Center, which is one of the heaviest trafficked areas on campus. “Students come here for the educational process. They want to be able to learn. If someone is right outside their window or door causing a disturbance, that’s not really appropriate for the students,” Spor said. “I’ve seen it at other campuses where verbal altercations can arise, fist fights can arise, and where people feel threatened by the person by the way they’re being harassed.” As of September 2014, when a moratorium was placed on AP 3900, the district has ceased enforcing the provisions of the procedure that limited the exercise of free speech to the free speech zone to now include the entire campus with some restrictions. “In working with the plaintiffs attorneys we expanded the area greatly to pretty much include any

In the beginning of the project, it didn’t appear as if much is going on visually. However, according to Diamond, multiple things are now in the works simultaneously. The most prominent occurrence at the moment is the steel frame that towers over Student Services Building. “A lot of work in the beginning is under ground,” Diamond said. “The steel work alone on the project is over $2 million. If you think about that, the steel started fabbing (fabricating) out off site, ‘cause that’s how they do it. And that was about three months ago,” Diamond said. “A lot of the things run concurrently. The decking…that’s going on right now. They can’t do any framing until that is in place… most of the structural steel is up now.” Claudette Dain, CPA, vice president of finance & administrative services, has also

YAL Facebook page

Students were encouraged to sound off on the “Free Speech Wall” set up by Young Americans for Liberty during Club Rush on Sept. 16 - 17, 2014.

“It was unfortunate we had to go down that route, but we did it and we’re complying.” -Arvid Spor, Ed.D

vice president of academic affairs and interim vice president of student services

of the greenbelt areas,” Spor said. “It dramatically expanded the space with some limitations.” The administration will continue to enforce AP 3900 within 25 feet of doorways opening to outdoor areas of campus, all indoor areas and anytime free speech disrupts the normal educational process. According to Gabriel Nadales, 21, political science major who serves as vice president of YAL, SinapiRiddle and other members of YAL were collecting signatures for an anti-NSA resolution he was hoping to bring to the executive board of the Associated Students of Citrus College. “Vinny, along with other students in YAL, were strongly pushing for this and petitioning,” Nadales said. “Vinny was outside of the free

speech zone and he was confronted by an administrator to leave or get kicked out of campus.” Nadales, who was also serving as Legislative Liaison for ASCC at the time of Sinapi-Riddle’s clash with the administration, began drafting a resolution with the aid of FIRE to get rescind free speech policies on California Community College Campuses. “I worked with FIRE to draft the resolutions. They offered me legal advice, and pointed me to legal cases to strengthen the resolution.” The resolutions were to be presented to the Student Senate for California Community Colleges Region VIII assembly. After the resolution failed in the student senate, Nadales mentioned some of the run-ins he had with the

administration and Executive Board of ASCC in filing the resolution. Although FIRE advised him to pursue legal action, Nadales did not follow that course of action. “I mentioned this to Vinny, to which he took it upon himself to contact FIRE and sue for the mistreatment he had personally received from the school,” Nadales said. Spor argues that the situation could have been handled through a series of meetings between SinapiRiddle and FIRE rather than through litigation. “I think it was something that we would of like to have handled differently,” Spor said. “It was unfortunate we had to go down that route, but we did it and we’re complying.” Although it was never Nadales’ intent to go to court over the matter, he is ultimately pleased with the changes to the free speech area policy. “Its about time the policies were rescinded and we have some new policies that are consistent with the constitution,” Nadales said. “This does not benefit one side, but benefits anyone with an idea and the will to share it.”

Fred Diamond Citrus College Facilities

Arial photo of the plot of land in between the Student Service Building and the ED Building where the new Fine Arts Building will be located.

been at the forefront of the new structure. “The project is moving along nicely. We are on schedule and the structural steel phase is progressing swiftly. The building is beginning to take shape and we are excited

for what the future of this project will provide to our students and the community,” she stated. With the steel structure making quick progress, according to Diamond, the next phase to be expected is the framing.

“Very shortly you’re going to see framing going on which are all the interior, like the walls and stuff like that,” Diamond said. In just over a year, the new Art Building is expected to reach completion

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Clarion

FEATURES

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

PAGE 7

Speaker to address racial prejudice BY PAT CORDOVA-GOFF STAFF WRITER

PCORDOVA@CCCLARION.COM

In recognition of Black History Month, Citrus College will welcome a returning speaker to discuss actively combating racial prejudice on Thursday, Feb. 26. Born in the middle of the civil rights movement, the childhood of Claudia Owens Shields was just the beginning of a life dedicated to education, social justice and love. With politically active parents who marched alongside prominent black leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rev. Jesse Jackson, Shields found herself socially conscious at an early age. “When you grow up in that environment, it has an impact on you,” Shields said. “I’ve thought of race and race relations my whole life.” Today, Shields find herself constantly educating those around her; a role she says she did not always choose for herself, but enjoys. At Citrus College, she plans to open her forum for an honest discussion about racism, what it truly is, and how we can combat this system of oppression. Most people, when asked

what racism is, Shields said, will believe they understand enough to define it. Yet, when giving their definitions, most will unintentionally refer closer to racial prejudice instead. “One of the things that I am hoping [students] walk away with,” she said, “is the understanding that racism is typically much bigger, much broader, and much more systemic that [we] usually think.” The stigma behind racism, however, provides an inevitable obstacle in creating an open discussion. Individuals commonly find racism to be an uncomfortable issue they would much rather avoid. According to Shields, the importance of these talks is simple: “it is a matter of life or death.” To actively make an effort of improving the environment at Citrus College, students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and attend the forum. While Shields acknowledges that many students may struggle to honestly discuss this topic, she believes challenging our minds and what we think we know can change and save lives, regardless

of our own race identity. “This is not a finger-pointing exercise,” Shields said. This talk will not put white people and people of color in two separate boxes up for debate. She intends to explain the difference between blame and responsibility regarding racism. “We are all responsible for creating a better society,” Shields said. “This is a call to action.” From the UC Berkeley Free Speech Movement in 1964 to the Student Strike of 1970 in response to the Kent State shootings, college campuses have historically proven to be at the forefront of many social justice movements. Although discussions of racism may be uncomfortable, college students have great power in affecting the future of this nation, Shields said. The forum will allow students to openly reconstruct their mentality around racism. “It is an act of love, kindness,” Shields said. “It’s gentle.” “Actively Combating Racism” with Dr. Claudia Owens Shield will be held on Thursday, Feb. 08 at 10 am in the Campus Center East Wing.

Facebook

Dr. Claudia Owens Shields will be speaking Thursday Feb. 26 at 10 a.m. in the Campus Center East Wing.

presented by Dr. Claudia Owens Shields, Ph.D.

Thursday, February 26 10 am Campus Center East Wing

Clarion

SPOTLIGHT

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

PAGE 9

Gastropub ‘crafts so hard’ on trivia nights Bread & Barley hosts a weekly trivia event while providing the best in craft beer, food and music. Evan Solano Clarion

BY NESTOR CRUZ

Travis Johnston, server at Bread & Barley attentlively tends to guests sitting at the bar area of the restaraunt on “Trivia Night.” Bread & Barley has six stools in the bar where guests get a close-up view of the electronic menu and freshly poured brews.

STAFF WRITER

NCRUZ@CCCLARION.COM

Gastropub Bread & Barley has brought life to the quiet streets of Downtown Covina on Trivia Nights with the intent to educate and expose the public to craft beer. Every Tuesday at 8 p.m., the Bread & Barley “Trivia Night” brews up friendly competition among locals, foodies and beer connoisseurs. Quizmaster Austin Floyd of bar trivia experts “King Trivia” provides the night’s entertainment making this freeto-enter experience both fun and informational. Trivia questions range from general knowledge, geography, celebrity facts and pop culture. The race to pub glory and prizes varying from gift cards to free rounds of beer, becomes much more interesting with some of the finest craft beer Bread & Barley has to offer. Beers not to be overlooked are the Houblon Chouffe Dobbelen Tripel, a well-balanced Belgianstyle IPA with an expressive fruitiness and Fall Brewing

Company’s “2 a.m. Bike Ride,” a coffee and vanilla bean stout, recommended for any coffee lover. Bread & Barley offers guests more than 20 beers on tap rotated frequently in addition to a number of bottled brews. From various types of barley wines, ales to stouts and porters to choose from, Trivia Night at Bread & Barley will surely change anybody’s idea of a typical Tuesday night, especially with the quality that can be savored in every sip at no more than $9. Bread & Barley not only caters to the beer snobs chasing after the hoppiest, richest or rarest brews to satisfy their palettes but it also offers a decent selection of red and white wines that would complement any of their gourmet dishes. Guests have the option to try various dishes like the “Bread and Barley Burger” made with house-made mustard aioli and Gruyere cheese starting at $12, to starters such

as the Papas Bravas, (sautéed potatoes served with chili paste & lemon) that are so satisfying they might as well be the main course item. Bread & Barley has a rustic ambiance that takes guests back to 1920s Old Town Covina with its interior of exposed brick walls and salvaged wood tables. The venue commemorates a piece of the United States’ history with Prohibition era propaganda such as the “Vote Against Prohibition” slogan, posters and a huge antique American flag that cannot be missed. No gastropub is complete without some great tunes and Bread & Barley does not fall behind on this. While contestants ponder on “King Trivia’s” questions,

guests can indulge in the sounds of the likes of Phantogram, Of Monsters and Men, Ratatat and MGMT, all the while three large television screens play the latest in sports and news. Since its inception in 2013, Bread & Barley has catered to beer enthusiasts while educating those new to the burgeoning craft beer culture and created a unique piece of Americana in the heart of Covina. Bread & Barley also hosts live music, monthly bottle shares and “tap takeover” events by craft breweries. They also plan on adding a Thursday college night where students may play board games and get discounts upon presentation of a valid student ID. Bread & Barley’s next event is “Abita Brewing Mardi Gras,” a New Orleans themed masquerade contest taking place on Feb. 19 at 6 p.m.

Evan Solano Clarion

The “B&B Fish Tacos” is a dish not to miss out on. Made with beer battered white fish, jalapeno lime cilantro aioli slaw, these tacos pair well with the Houblon Chouffe Dobbelen Tripel.

Bread & Barley is located at 130 North Citrus Avenue in Covina. Hours of operation are Mon - Wed: 11 am - 11 pm, Thu: 11 am - 1 am, Fri - Sat: 11 am - 1 am and Sun: 11 am - 10 pm (Evan Solano Clarion)

PAGE 10

Clarion

FEATURES

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

EASY AS A, B, C As one of the longest run, family-owned language schools in the country, the Foreign Language School at Citrus College looks to help international students learn and apply English BY MEGAN BENDER STAFF WRITER

MBENDER@CCCLARION.COM

Located between the Campus Center and the Physical Science Building is a portable office. It serves as the Citrus College campus site for Foreign Language Schools International, the mission of which is to help international students learn English. “When students come out here we are the only people they rely on as far as who they trust and want to talk to,” said Eddie Mejia, the Citrus director for FLS International. Mejia has been with FLS for over a year making strong connections with visiting students. FLS caters to students from all around the world; Mejia had 200 Brazilian students pass through recently and is expecting 100 Taiwanese and Japanese students in the near future. The company brings in groups of 100 to 300 international students, both short-term and long-term to learn and improve their English skills. “Instead of having all the students from one country in one class, we have mixtures of different students from all countries,” Mejia said. “The only language they would be able to connect through would be English and that really helps them out.” FLS is a for-profit program that rents facilities from Citrus College. It has eight locations in the U.S including Las Vegas, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Tennessee and Pennsylvania. All the students enrolled with FLS agree that learning English is important to their studies as well as to themselves. Some have made new friends at Citrus. FLS features nine levels of English speaking, ranging from low beginner to high advanced in which a mix of students from all nationalities must use English to communicate effectively.

Yousef Ghulam, 18, and Ahmad Alqurashi, 19, are both students from Saudi Arabia. They did not know each other before they enrolled in FLS International. Ghulam likes to practice English with Alqurashi and his other friends. “Sometimes we will listen to English songs and watch movies with subtitles,” he said. “English is the major language in the world. If you do not have English, you cannot study, you will not complete your education,” Alqurashi said. Alqurashi who has been with FLS International for a year wants to study industrial engineering. He is currently at an English-speaking level of eight He is unsure if he will attend Citrus after he completes his FLS studies, which students may do after completing seven levels of courses. The school serves as a steppingstone for international students looking to transfer to other colleges or to enroll at Citrus College once they have completed seven levels of study. The Citrus College FLS site provides homestay opportunities or apartments near campus so the students can enjoy being close by. FLS offers custom programs that are based on the time period you wish to spend in any one country, offering vacation programs and extracurricular activities in the area such as Disneyland, the beach or community sports. “We had a student come from Russia who was a huge soccer fanatic, so we talked to other students and got him participating in the soccer team those students had,” Mejia said. The curriculum is offered to students as young as 15. It is often attended by students straight out of high school looking to learn English and to experience college. Erin Fair, who has been teaching

Evan Solano Clarion

FLS English Teacher Erin Fair uses a word game to teach her level three students on Feb. 3. Fair uses “Board Race” to strengthen her students’ memories on verbs, adjectives, and nouns from different stories.

Evan Solano Clarion

Yousef Ghulam ,18, and Ahmad Alqurashi, 19, take a break from their studies outside on Feb. 3. The two became friends after meeting through the FLS program.

at FLS Citrus for four months, contributes to their experience by engaging her students in lively activities. Fair teaches classes with an average size of 13 students and is with them anywhere from four to six hours a day. Although the level varies per term, Fair’s classes include two level three classes, academic workshops, and two elective classes: beginning and advanced public speaking. “I really enjoy the energy of my students,” Fair said. “There

are trying days, but the students are wonderful, the staff and my coworkers are wonderful, and everything just comes together.” Mejia makes sure he reaches out to the students as well, making sure to offer help and provide them with a positive experience outside of their English studies. “Some students are here on their own arrangements, and for the first month or so it’s a little weird for them meeting new people. All it takes is a little bit of extra time and work to make sure the students

are happy outside of their studies,” Mejia said. Mejia believes having the FLS International site on campus provides these students with a positive college experience before they decide where to study. “Often times they decide to transfer straight to Citrus,” he said. “The international students get to interact with the students here,” Mejia said. “Having them be on campus and seeing how a normal day of college is like is one of the advantages of this location. They have access to a lot of the benefits that the local students have.” The Citrus location, which was established in 1986, is the longest standing site for FLS International. FLS International is America’s largest family-owned and operated network of language schools and extends their family bond to their students. “We have students that are here for short term periods, from two weeks to a month. We have some instances where students are saying goodbye to us and they start breaking down crying saying they are going to miss you,” Mejia said. “It’s a very touching moment since we’ve only seen them so many times, but since we were the ones they met on the first day, we have that connection with them.”

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Clarion

FEATURES

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015 PAGE 11

Superintendent/President greets students

Courtesy of the Office of External Relations

Many believe that, in addition to a college education, a crucial element of success is being in the right place at the right time. If this is true, then you are definitely in luck. Spring Semester 2015 at Citrus College will be momentous. As you have undoubtable heard, Citrus College is currently in the process of celebrating its 100th anniversary. It has already been great fun commemorating this historic occasion with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and the many friends of Citrus College. And, believe it or not, our Centennial Celebration isn’t the only reason this semester promises to be remarkable! Citrus College will soon introduce the Institute for Completion. This innovative new initiative will foster a culture of college completion for all students, regardless of their level of preparedness. It will also support research efforts designed to measure improvement, and it will focus on student-centered services, retention, and success.

welcomE incoming STUDENTS A message from the ASCC President BY MANUEL RAMIREZ SPECIAL TO THE CLARION • ASCC PRESIDENT

Welcome Citrus Students, The spring has arrived, and seeing all friends and faculty throughout the semester is something I look forward to. All of the students here at Citrus College can engage in opportunities to learn. Throughout all of the different branches here at Citrus, you will find activities and classes that help us build on achieving our goals. Our Campus Activities Board has planned

File Photo

numerous events for students throughout the semester. Walk in to our monthly TED Talk viewings scheduled for discussion or listen in to keynote speakers informing students about current themes such as

At Citrus College, student success is our legacy. For an entire century, Citrus College alumni have regularly transferred to the colleges of their dreams, pursued impressive professional careers, and actively contributed to society. Most recently, our institutional achievements have earned Citrus College a stellar reputation throughout the nation. This past fall, Payscale Inc. recognized Citrus College as one of the nation’s top 10 public two-year colleges and fifth among California’s 112 community colleges, based on alumni earning potential. In addition, Victory Media selected Citrus College as a STEM Jobs Approved CollegeSM. This honor places Citrus College among the top 125 out of 1,600 U.S. colleges and universities surveyed. Not surprisingly, Citrus College’s achievements have led to increased enrollment. Because of this growth, Community College Week magazine listed Citrus College as the fifth fastest growing community college in the

“Actively Combatting Racial Prejudice”. From where we are in our educational experience, along the way there are new places to explore and improve in whatever we are good at. With all the brilliant athletic participation, STEM opportunities, Fine and Performing Arts shows and decisions to make; declare a major and see how working together can make it a success. Stop by and hang out at our 25th Annual Spring Fest celebration in May, where students can enjoy time outside of class while encompassing a variety of entertainment provided for all students. Make your way over to Club Rush in March when students are invited to join in and learn more about participation in club membership. Learn how campus clubs contribute to students through collaboration in campus events and camaraderie in a shared interest. Interests in whether it is cultural, educational, or all about popular entertainment, campus clubs plan fundraising events and activities too that garner appreciation in a common belief. While at Citrus, look up all of the available resources for students in the Student Services building, and work with a counselor to advise an educational plan for completion.

nation! Annual headcount data from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office indicates that 16,399 students attended Citrus College in 2012-2013, and that number grew to 18,018 in 2013-2014 – nearly a 10 percent increase in just one year. It has been said that success is, “being at the right place at the right time, and taking advantage of your opportunities.” This spring, the opportunities at Citrus College are limitless! I encourage you to embrace them and have them lead you to your bright future. On behalf of the entire Citrus College community, I wish you a wonderful and productive semester! Sincerely,

Geraldine M. Perri, Ph. D. Superintendent/President

Also, speak to one our student government representatives and get involved with Student Government. The Associated Students of Citrus College Executive Board works directly with faculty and administration regarding issues that may affect the student population in the future. ASCC works with students to grow amongst the college community, and to ensure student representation is available in the shared governance process. Election campaigning starts in May and appointed positions are available all throughout the semester. Above all things, work hard to achieve what you enrolled for and continue to ask why Citrus College is the number one choice. I am very pleased to welcome all students from around the world to Citrus College and may we all work together to succeed in making our campus the place to be.

Sincerely, Manuel J. Ramirez ASCC President mjramirez@citruscollege.edu

PAGE 12

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Clarion

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Courtesy of the Haugh Performing Arts Center

The Russian National Ballet Theater performed Swan Lake at the Haugh Performing Arts Center on Feb. 8 featuring a cast of over 50 dancers.

ATTENTION CITrus sTudENTs! Your ASCC card (with valid sticker) entitles you to

2 hAlf prICE TICkETs

the day of show at the Haugh Performing Arts Center

Saturday March

8PM

Columbia Artists presents

ORQUESTA SINFÓNICA DEL ESTADO DE MÉXICO Enrique Bátiz, Music Director and Chief Conductor Program: Turina, Danzas Fantásticas Op. 22; Rodrigo, Concierto de Aranjuez; Brahms, Symphony No. 1 The world-famous Orquesta Sinfónica del Estado de México is returning to the United States for the ﬁrst time since 2008. Joining the orchestra for this performance is Alfonso Moreno, one of the greatest interpreters of classical guitar known to the world. Tickets: $45/$35/$25 Student/Senior: $40/$30/$20 16 & under: $20/$15/$10

TEACHERS! Inquire about bringing your classes. For information call: (626) 963-9411. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd. Glendora, CA 91741

PERFoRmIng ARTS CEnTER

TICkETS: (626) 963-9411 www.haughpac.com

Box Office Open Tues - Sat 11am - 4pm & One Hour Prior To All Shows

Russian ballet captivates Citrus BY PAT CORDOVA-GOFF STAFF WRITER

PCORDOVA@CCCLARION.COM

More than a thousand guests filled the seats of the Haugh Performing Arts Center on Feb. 8 to witness the talent of the Russian National Ballet Theater perform the iconic “Swan Lake.” The cast of more than 50 remarkable dancers told the story of “Swan Lake,” a ballet that originally premiered in Moscow on March 4, 1877. With choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov and music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the performance begins in the garden of Prince Siegfried’s castle. A young man coming of age, Prince Siegfried is faced with the duties of war, as well as the expectations of finding a wife. Draped in a gold robe and sparkling jewels, with breathtaking Clarion Ad #1 hair fit for Hollywood’s red carpet, the Queen Mother of the Realm Spring 2015 presents the prince with an arbalest, a variation of a cross bow, as a gift. She reminds him of his fateful decision that he is to make at tomorrow’s ball: he has to choose a bride in true fairy tale style. As the guests arrive for the ball, each dancer demonstrated the diverse talent of the cast, bringing a different personality to routine protocols. The ballroom scene was transformed as the prince strolled by the lake during the course of his celebration. Using his arbalest, the prince had set out to shoot a swan until one had turned into a human; the swan queen, Odette. The prince and swan queen performed a pas de deux, which is a ballet duet, before the swans. Complementing each other’s talent beautifully, the swan queen informs the prince that they are under the mercy of sorcerer Rotbart. The dance itself was beautiful, demonstrating the love between the two characters just meeting for the first time. The passion between the two talented dancers foreshadowed a romantic connection that would be carried through

Courtesy of Haugh Performing Arts Center

A dancer performs at the Haugh Performing Arts Center on Feb. 8

the production. True love, Odette explains, is the only remedy that will lift the curse and free the flight of swans. Until the curse is lifted, Odette and the others, will be forced to endure each day as animals, instead of living in their human forms. Act II opens back at the ball with a collage of princesses from which the prince must a choose a wife. Each candidate for marriage performs a different style of dance to the overall performance, representing royal families from Hungary, Russia, Spain, Italy and Poland. The personality of each princess is on full display. A trumpet blast interrupts the celebration as fog fills the stage and the lights dim. There is a sense of amazement from the beauty of the incoming guests, but suspicion of their intentions foreshadowed by the scenery and music. Rotbart, the sorcerer who cursed the prince’s true love and her swans, enters the palace with a woman that looks strikingly like Odette. Intense and sharp music blares while the prince struggles to discover whether he is dancing with his true love or with an imposter. Dressed in a beautiful, but seemingly evil, black ballet costume, Odylle captivated the audience with her presence. Her beauty had the same effect on the prince. Visions of the lake appear in his

mind, as the audience watches the white swans try to enter the palace and prevent the prince from marrying the fraudulent Odylle, instead of his true love Odette. On the edge of their seats, viewers hold the breath as the prince begins to remember his true love, but is repeatedly distracted by Odylle. Toward the back of the stage, sorcerer Rotbart uses his strength to lock out the white swans from gaining entrance. The audience stands witness as the prince is eventually tricked into promising his love to Odette’s imposter. Realizing his mistake, the prince rushes to Odette’s side by the lake before the curse becomes permanent. In suspicious dim lighting, the sorcerer raises a raging storm that is accompanied with music that foreshadows battle. The audience watches as Rotbart tries to prevent the prince from reuniting with Odette. Once again, the audience is witness to the intense spectacle of the one-on-one battle between the prince and Rotbart while the prince fights to contact Odette. Love prevails, however, as the Prince overcomes all obstacles to be united with his soulmate. As the spell is broken, the audience applauds the beautiful work of the entire cast. The Russian National Ballet Theatre was founded in Moscow during the transitional period of Perestroika in the late 1980s. The company, then called Society national Ballet, was made of some top dancers from great Russian choreographic schools throughout Moscow, St. Petersberg and Perm. Many of the original dancers remain with the company today. Elena Radchenko, legendary Bolshoi principal dancer, was selected by presidential decree to assume the first permanent artistic directorship of the organization in 1994. Her work continues to amaze audiences throughout the world, as demonstrated at Citrus College.

Clarion

SPORTS

SCOREBOARD MEN’S BASKETBALL SAT WED WED 2/7 2/4 2/11 GLENDALE BAKERSFIELD ANTELOPE W, 73-67 L, 74-68 VALLEY W, 86-83

SAT 2/14 LA VALLEY W, 85-74

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL WED SAT WED 2/7 2/11 2/4 GLENDALE BAKERSFIELD ANTELOPE 74-68 W, 73-67 L, 67-54 VALLEY L, 60-53 OT W, 55-52

SAT 2/14 LA VALLEY L, 50-46

BASEBALL SAT 2/7 MT. SAN JANCITO W, 9-7

TUE 2/10 VENTURA W, 4-2

THURS 2/12 OXNARD T, 5-5 F/8

SAT 2/14 EAST LA L, 3-1

SOFTBALL FRI FRI 2/6 2/6 PALOMAR SANTA ANA W, 13-5 L, 8-4 F/5

THUR 2/12 CYPRESS W, 14-1 F/5

THUR 2/12 VICTOR VALLEY W, 17-0

Playing the role of spoiler Out of playoff contention, the women’s basketball team has not let it stop them from spoiling other team’s playoff hopes BY MICKEY ROMERO MANAGING EDITOR

MROMERO@CCCLARION.COM

A losing streak and a long season didn’t stop the Owls from playing the role of spoiler to playoff-hopeful Antelope Valley College. Citrus came up with a huge win to upset the Marauders 55-52 on Feb.11 Both teams came out strong and kept it close early in the first half before the Lady Owls began to pull away late for a 27-20 halftime lead.

“We were relentless, we were hungry for it and there was no way we were going to leave with a loss.” -Bobbie Johnson Citrus Guard

UPCOMING MEN’S BASKETBALL WED 2/18 WEST LA 5 PM

SAT 2/21 CANYONS 3 PM

NO GAME

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015 PAGE 13

Citrus guards Vanessa Garcia and Janae Chamois both lead the team with nine points in the first half. Defensive trouble allowed the Marauders back into the game as they outscored the Owls 8-2 early in the second half. “During the season, we lost our

center. So we have to play very small and in playing very small, we’re playing a zone that we don’t typically have to play,” said Tamara McDonald, Citrus head coach. However, the Owls were able to hold on in the end for the 55-52 win over then second place Antelope Valley. Chanois added 14 points in the second half to finish with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. “We were relentless, we were hungry for it and there was no way we were going to leave with a loss,” said Citrus forward Bobbie Johnson. “ We had to redeem ourselves, we knew we were better than the last game we played.” Shooting only 34.1 percent as compared to 43.4 percent for the Marauders, the Owls outscored them at the free throw line by a margin of 20-to-6 with the stripe turning out to be the difference. Even though the Owls are out of playoff contention, the game was a good experience for a young team featuring eight freshman players and five sophomores, who are seeing a large amount of minutes for the first time. “Our team is extremely young, even my sophomores are very young and they’re experiencing the game,” said McDonald. “A few

Mickey Romero Clarion

Citrus guard Bobbie Johnson helps guard Antelope Valley’s Savannah Johnson, 24, during their Feb.11 matchup. The Owls held on to win 55-52 during the Western Conference matchup.

games later, you’re a little bit more mature, and you know what you have to do. Now it’s just putting those things together into a completely 40-minute game.” The Owls came into the game on a three-game losing streak and on a 3-7 stretch of games dating back to early January.

The Marauders were in 2nd place and are currently sitting in 3rd place in the South division of the Western State Conference After a 50-46 loss against L.A. Valley on Feb. 14, the Owls have two games remaining beginning with a trip to West L.A. College tonight.

Valley 63-40 in the second half on 61.3 percent shooting (19-of-31) for the 86-83 win. Citrus forced the Marauders to commit 11 turnovers in the second half and committed only four turnovers themselves. “We went into the locker room after the first half and decided we needed to come out in the second half with a lot more intensity, have the bench talk more, and pick up our communication.” said Ryan Wiley, Citrus guard, who finished with 24 points and 15 rebounds. “Ryan Wiley had a great game. He played well, he rebounded the ball, he was tough and he was finishing his shots,” said Chris Victor, Citrus head coach. Citrus started out the 2014-15 season losing four of their first six games in November but have been on a 14-4 streak since early December. “Hopefully we can keep the momentum, keep our attitude and effort at the same level,” said Victor. “You play that well together , and that hard, and you can live with the result.” Defense seems to be the key to

this recent surge. The Owls are now averaging 73.8 points per game, down slightly from the 74.8 points they were averaging in November, but allowing only 68.05 points, a significant drop from the 76.1 points from early in the season. After their 85-74 win against L.A. Valley on Feb 14, the Owls have two games left in the regular season but they are likely to be playoff contenders in the 2015 CCCAA Men’s Southern California Regionals. They have picked up big wins against state ranked #9 Southwestern (Dec.19, 88-87), #5 Mt. San Antonio (Dec. 21, 62-57), and #7 Antelope Valley while narrowly losing against #14 San Diego City (Nov. 30, 66-64) and #9 Southwestern (Nov.15, 78-70). The CCCAA Southern California Regionals will take place between Feb 25 and March 7 with the Final Four playing in the State Championships at Cerritos College on March 13 and March 15. The Owls play at West Los Angeles College (15-8, 6-6) today.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL WED 2/18 WEST LA 7 PM

SAT 2/21 CANYONS 5 PM

NO GAME

BASEBALL SAT THURS 2/21 2/19 SAN BERNA- VENTURA 1 PM DRINO 2 PM

THURS TUE 2/26 3/3 PASADENA BAKERSFIELD 2 PM 2 PM

SOFTBALL FRI FRI 2/20 2/20 LONG BEACH CUESTA 7 PM 2:30 PM

TUE WED 2/24 2/25 RIO HONDO MT. SAC 2:30 PM 2:30 PM

HOME

AWAY Mickey Romero Clarion

WOMEN’S SWIMMING

• Fri, Feb. 20 at Mt. San Antonio Invitational (Day 1) • Sat, Feb. 21 at Mt San Antonio Invitational (Day 2) • Fri, Feb. 27 at WSC Meet #1 at L.A. Valley College

MEN’S GOLF

• Wed, Feb. 18 at Mt. San Jancito Tournament • Mon, Feb. 23 at WSC Bakersfield • Sun, Mar. 1 at Point Conception Open (Day 1)

8:00 AM 8:00 AM 2:30 PM

Dominique Walker, Citrus guard, goes up for a shot against Antelope Valley during the closing minutes of their divisional matchup. Citrus pulled off the 86-83 upset of the #7 state ranked Marauders.

Men’s Basketball F RO M PAGE 1

11:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM

nine turnovers. Citrus shot 27.3 percent (9-for 33) in the first half. “To be honest, from the start I thought we were going to be ready to go,” said Citrus guard Dominique Walker who finished with 12 points, 6 assists and 3 rebounds.

“We got down by that much and it kind of just shocked all of us. We had too many turnovers and just played soft with the ball in the first half,” he said. Down 43-23 at halftime, the Owls seemed like a whole new team in the second part of the game. They outscored Antelope

PAGE 14

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Clarion

SPORTS

SWIM:

Diving into a new season BY JACLYN SPENCER STAFF WRITER

JSPENCER@CCCLARION.COM

Women’s swimming may be an individual sport, but head coach Andrew Silva and his team strives towards developing a strong and competitive swimming program at Citrus College. Spring semester typically begins on the first day of school; however, spring season began for women’s swimming in January. “A jump on an early season allows the team to get the yardage and high intensity practice they need”, said Silva. Silva is excited to have the largest team of swimmers, since he took over the program three years ago. Crossover, athletes playing on both teams, typically occurs between players from women’s water polo and women’s swim. This year the seventeen water polo girls and seventeen freshman swim recruits have doubled the team’s size. With a balance between new and returning swimmers, the team is expected to perform at a high level. “I see improvement week after week, whether it’s in the weight

room or yardage in the pool” said sophomore Christina Tereszczuk. Silva sees the girls’ grow individually and bond together during their practices sessions. “First season girls bring a new energy and excitement, while the returning swimmers have the experience and knowledge they bring to practices,” said Silva. The practices may be intense, but the team always finds time to keep a light atmosphere. “Even though they have their heads 90 percent of the time underwater, they can joke around and have fun at the same time” said Sarah Zandihn, assistant women’s swim coach. Two weeks before the team’s first competition, they participated in a yoga session. Yoga is not a typical part of the team’s conditioning, but the coaches felt this would help mentally and physically destress the team before they start competing. “We were able to stretch out and enjoy some team bonding,” said returning sophomore swimmer Kimberly Torres. She went on to emphasize that little gestures, like a team yoga day, makes her feel

Mickey Romero Clarion

Women’s swim team practicing in the Citrus Aquatic Center on Feb. 10. The team is looking to build on the strengths of last year.

valued and cared for by her coaches and teammates. “On this team I am not just another number. I would rather be coached by [Silva] because he cares about us” said Torres. Tereszczuk sees how both of her coaches really know each girl. “Coach Silva can read his team, he goes out of his way to ensure they are cared for like his own kids,” said Tereszczuk. “Coach Zandihn helped a lot and pushed us to do 6,000 yards at practice. She encouraged us by saying [she] wouldn’t do anything

Coop’s corner A new era of sports journalism BY DILLON COOPER SPORTS EDITOR

DCOOPER@CCCLARION.COM

I really don’t care for what the label “sports media” has become. I believe, while they may be entertaining some of the time, programs such as SportsCenter, FirstTake and many others on ESPN and its wide array of channels infiltrating your T.V. have lost meaning of what it means to be a sports journalist. While I am aware that being a journalist comes with the responsibility of reporting all things associated with your beat or area of profession, the sports media world has gone too far. What was the nation talking about in the week prior to the Super Bowl? “I’m just here so I won’t get fined.” Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch was a topic for almost all talk shows and radio stations. Journalists started putting the man under fire the whole week, labeling him as a bad example and berating him in columns across America. Journalists put people like Seahawks corner

back Richard Sherman, Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook and forward Kevin Durant and many other athletes under a microscope, but what about the suits of the businesses these players represent? The Roger Goodells of the world, why doesn’t he have to talk? See, I originally set out for this column to be about the hype that led up to the Super Bowl and how it should have been about the Xs and Os of the game, instead the media placed the importance of that week upon a player not cooperating with them. I wanted to know what types of plays the Patriots were going to use if they came across a certain set or what adjustments they’d make if they read a safety blitz. I wanted to know the ins and outs of what makes this Seahawk defense so good. All I got was jargon, jargon aimed at the athlete. Journalists all around the world screamed freedom of speech when Charlie Hebdo was attacked. May I inform you that Charlie Hebdo is a satirical publication that aims to humiliate and disgrace many different religions, especially religions that have a huge person of color following. Marshawn Lynch carries a football and runs over defenders for a living, but no one came to his aid. These athletes are out here to do a job, a job that is put to the wayside so pens and pencils can focus on things that really matter to them, the drama off the field.

[she] knew [we] couldn’t do,” said Tereszczuk. Coach Zandihn led the off-season practices, finding the best training and techniques for the team. “I want to see everyone making the goals they had set at the beginning of season. We make you suffer, but there is a reason to why we make you suffer,” said coach Zandihn. With their next competitions taking place this upcoming weekend, Feb. 20-21 at Mt. San Antonio College, Silva anticipates seeing the team’s times and

But when an athlete doesn’t want to talk, do journalists come together and cry freedom of speech? No, there is no cry for freedom of speech because it doesn’t benefit them. It doesn’t benefit the mainstream media so of course they aren’t going to rally around the athlete. Instead the media will twist their hairs and go deep into the thesaurus to make an athlete seem uneducated and a villain. I understand some sports journalists are just trying to do their job and ask those analytical questions. I also understand that these journalists hate being told “No” to and will do whatever they can to slander and demean the name and brand of the person that did so. I’ve been told “No” from numerous athletes and have always been completely ok with it. It’s their decision if they want to talk to me or not, it’s their right to do what they please. They stampede to their locker at the end of a game with a dozen microphones, sticking them in their face. That’s not something you do to a human. It’s been a terrible year already for sports journalism, but if we the media stop treating athletes as quote robots, we can gain some respect back. We need to get back to having conversations with the athlete, relevant conversations pertaining to the sport, not off-the-field drama. I believe there’s a mutual respect between the athlete and the media. I also believe that upcoming athletes are more wary of the media because they’re afraid their quotes will be taken out of context. It’s ugly. It’s all very ugly. It’s ugly that an athlete, who has the most important game of his life to prepare for, is forced to sit in a chair in front of thousands of journalists and talk, even when it’s apparent he has no interest in doing so. It’s ugly that an NFL commissioner, who had possibly the worst season in all of sports, isn’t forced to say a word about it during his sport’s biggest week.

identifying their areas of strength and improvement. While the teams’ big goal is to qualify for state, the main focus is still on building up the swimming program. With the reality of studentathletes playing within a two-year rotation, Silva wants alumni and current athletes to stay connected and always be a part of the program’s success. “[Even though] we’re not a team, from season to season, we’re [still] trying to make a [lasting] program” said Torres.

Did everyone forget about the Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson problems or did they just vanish because the athletes stepped away from the sport for a year? Whatever the case is, the media will still criticize and keep these athletes under the long scope of the pen while letting “leaders” of these businesses slide free. Sports journalism no longer is about the analytical side of the game, it’s no longer about the strategy of the upcoming match or the mid-game adjustment that won it. Sports journalism is becoming a mockery and the laughing stock of the sports industry. ESPN and other major sports networks are now comparable to TMZ and E! We need to change that.

Clarion

FORUM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015 PAGE 15

EDITORIAL

Obama’s proposal: worth the investment T

he thought of having two tuition-free years of college is ultimate happiness for any struggling student. With education becoming an increasingly expensive investment, students all too often find themselves stuck between a mountain of debt and a low-paying job pit. That is why President Barack Obama’s call for free community college is so appealing. In his recent State of the Union address, Obama proclaimed that community college should be “as free and universal as high school.” We agree. Our country needs a college-educated workforce to meet the challenges of the global market. As more and more jobs require candidates to have at least an associate’s degree, Congressional approval of this plan would go far to help students from low income families qualify to compete. The idea is to make a two-year degree accessible for all students who could benefit in all 50 states. To qualify, responsible students would have to be enrolled half-time student, maintain a minimum 2.5

GPA, and make steady progress toward program completion. If this proposal becomes law, as many as 9 million students could benefit from the savings. Some people reject the notion that free community college would actually help California’s students achieve success. Others object to the estimated $60 billion cost to taxpayers over the course of ten years. At $46 a unit, California’s fees are the lowest in the nation. In addition, loans, scholarships and financial aid options are available for those who qualify. At Citrus College, many students who come from lowincome households already pay no tuition. However, in other states like Arizona the cost of community college is double that of resident students and triple for out of state students. Obama’s plan would also require all public community colleges to develop more programs that fully transfer credits to local public fouryear colleges or universities and/ or lead to in-demand degrees or certificates. Improving community college outcomes would be good

for the entire country, including the California community colleges with its 2 million students, the largest such system in the world. Forty percent of American students begin their studies at a community college. The diversity of the student body is striking. People from every race, ethnicity, age group, ability and socio-economic background are represented. We are not just a bunch of kids. We are adults striving for a better life. Of course, free education is not a panacea. Paying tuition is only one part of the struggle faced by today’s community college students. Balancing work and family obligations, committing to a major field of study, dealing with personal and cultural obstacles, and overcoming the unforeseen pitfalls of daily life can be formidable barriers to success. Developing pride and ownership of one’s education takes time. Nevertheless, making the America’s College Promise a reality could shine a much-needed light for students trying to find their way through the dark educational tunnel. The investment is worth considering.

whitehouse.gov/facebook

On Air Force One, President Obama addresses the nation in a video statement regarding free tuition for community college campuses.

OPINION

‘Sniper’ Reveals American Truth BY PAT CORDOVA-GOFF FEATURES EDITOR

he 2015 biopic “Selma” set out to recall a nonviolent march led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., that was met with violent opposition. The march was a factor leading up to President Lyndon Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Yet it is Clint Eastwood’s film “American Sniper” that has Americans marching into the nation’s movie theaters. After the last few months of our nation’s uproar over alleged police brutality against unarmed black men, I was under the impression that America was beginning to recognize problems with the continuing racist culture. Like a constantly moving spotlight, infuriated citizens brought focus to each person of color who died at the hands of white law enforcement. Awareness was rising with hashtags #BlackLivesMatter and #ICantBreathe being used to unite Americans who saw 2014 as a radically troubled year. For this reason, Selma seemed to be the perfect opportunity for our nation to acknowledge that our history is far from polished, yet an act of unity can bring about incredible change.

The profit margins between “Selma” and “American Sniper” however, show something different. Earning over $258 million more than Selma as of Feb. 16, 2015, Eastwood’s war hero film based on the story of American SEAL Chris Kyle threatens to erase the recent progress we have made against this nation’s racism. “American Sniper” capitalizes on celebrating our fire power to decimate anyone targeted by our armed forces, always in the name of “liberty” and “freedom.” While Selma revisits the story of MLK’s nonviolent resistance movement that pressured whites to recognize blacks as equal, “American Sniper” casts brownskinned Iraqis into the generalized group of terrorists which turns American soldiers into heroes for murdering. Meanwhile, both Eastwood and Ana DeVernay, director of “Selma”, have been criticized for lack of accuracy. These political decisions behind both director’s choices however, reflect the historical reputation of Hollywood not prioritizing accuracy in film. What cannot be attributed to Hollywood’s focus on profit at the expense of historical fact are the voluntary actions of American viewers. As “American Sniper” earns

more than $300 million within a month after its release, it appears that moviegoers prefer a film that highlights Islamophobic “victories”, instead of laying out the facts and flaws of our history. The danger of a movie like “American Sniper” is the simplistic viewpoint it offers of American involvement in Iraq, or any international conflict. Eastwood’s film portrays Chris Kyle as a respected Navy SEAL sniper, prompting viewers to applaud his actions without question, as commendable.

Multiple scenes place bombstrapped Iraqis into Kyle’s sight, each new murder adding to his “impressive” record of kills. This film contributes to the mindset that brown-skinned Islamic men are all terrorists capable of repeating 9/11. This is a dangerously appealing propaganda, not art. Threats against Muslims and Arabs have soared following the release of American Sniper, according to the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. “American Sniper” viewers have

taken to social media to express islamophobic viewpoints after watching American Sniper. “Nice to see a movie where the Arabs are portrayed for who they really are - vermin scum intent on destroying us,” was one of many hate-filled comments offered on Twitter. While some may argue that an individual’s movie choice is not a political action, the implications are undeniable. In order to combat this nation’s system of racism, Americans need to reject media that perpetuate this ingrained mentality. As a nation, we must recognize that movies do affect our attitudes on social issues. Choosing to watch a film about a march instead of a so called war hero, will not erase racism overnight. To recognize that “American Sniper” unfairly stereotypes a foreign nation as evil is to take a stance against racism. To recognize that “Selma” illustrates a struggle in our past, but sheds light on a lesson that is valid today, is to push back against racism. To have the right of choice that other nations do not, is to be American. This is a call to action to choose wisely and actively think responsibly.

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