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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014 VOL LXXXVII ISSUE 5
hammering it home The city of Azusa celebrates the merging of the Metro Gold Line to the new Citrus/APU stop of the Foothill Gold line extension with a completion ceremony.
BY LA’MESHA SIMPSON
Project stakeholders and elected officials, as well as many community members, attended the celebratory event staged where the future Azusa Downtown Station will be built. “It took many months and the hard work of many talented people to get to this point,” said Doug Tessitor, Glendora city council member and chairman of the Foothill Gold Line board of directors. “It is a
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ompletion of the 11mile extension to the Metro Gold Line connecting east Pasadena through Azusa on Oct. 18 drew a crowd of more than 300 people.
major achievement, and I am glad we took the time to celebrate.” The final e-clip of approximately 300,000, which is the part of the track connecting the rail to the concrete railroad ties, was driven into place by Foothill Gold Line crewmember Elias Avila. The track now connects Pasadena, Arcadia, Monrovia, Duarte, Irwindale and Azusa. S E E F OOT H ILL • PAGE 5
Foothill Gold Line crewmember Elias Avila holds the final e-clip that now permanently connects the track system for the Pasadena to Azusa segment of the Foothill Gold Line extension during the track’s completion ceremony on Oct. 18, in Azusa, California. Photo by: La’Mesha Simpson Clarion
A MONUMENTAL VISIT
President Obama uses an executive order to preserve the San Gabriel mountains amid protests from members of the community BY CAREESA CAMPBELL NEWS EDITOR
CCAMPBELL@CCCLARION.COM
The San Gabriel Mountains became the country’s 110th national monument when President Obama signed a proclamation Oct. 10 designating 346,000 acres of the Angeles National Forest to the monument. But this executive action is fiercely controversial. Dozens of protestors gathered outside the Frank G. Bonelli Park entrance where Obama spoke, waving American flags and holding signs with messages such as “Monumental mistake”
and “Save Mt. Baldy.” Speaking as a private citizen, Glendora mayor Judy Nelson was one of the protestors standing along the freeway overpass. Nelson said her biggest concern with the (Evan Solano Clarion) designation is what she President Obama addressing guests at Bonelli Park in San describes as the lack of Dimas on Oct 10. the democratic process in the decision. “I would like the voice of the people to be heard,” Nelson said. “There has been almost no public input on this. SE E M ONUM ENT • PAGE 5
Evan Solano Clarion
Protesters opposed to President Obama’s decision gathered at the entrance of Bonelli Park in San Dimas on Oct. 10, displaying their signs to cars exiting the 57 North freeway. Citrus student John Durden, pictured on far left in black, was among the protesters.
“Feeeed me, Seymour!” THE HAUGH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER TRANSFORMS INTO A “LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS”
PAGE 12
114 NUMBER OF DEGREES EARNED IN 1957
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
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Wild art and random photos from our staffers taken around campus
PSYCHOSIS:
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 TODAY (10/22)
THE HAUNTED MAZE
Oct. 24
Financial Literacy Meeting
Phi Theta Kappa Car Wash
The Citrus Business Association will be holding a financial literacy meeting Oct. 22 in an effort to help students avoid making common financial problems. Bruce Gray of Gray, Salt & Associates will be addressing the attendees in Lecture Hall 103. The meeting will take place from 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Phi Theta Kappa is hosting a fundraising car wash from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 at America’s Tire in Glendora. The proceeds will help the students in the club attend several upcoming organizational conferences. America’s Tire is located at 705 S Grand Ave., Glendora.
Oct. 27 Active Shooter Drill
The Gamer’s Guild, G.S.A., N.A.S.A., Anime Connection, Film and German Culture clubs are getting Citrus students in the Halloween spirit by presenting “Psychosis: The haunted maze.” The maze, which will be located in the Campus Center east wing, costs $2 for entry. Students may walk through the haunted maze Oct. 27 and 28 from noon until 8 p.m. Careesa Campbell Clarion
The Los Angeles County Fire and Glendora Police Departments, in collaboration with local law agencies, will be practicing current approaches to handling active shooter scenarios. The event will be held at the Church of the Open Door located at 701 W. Sierra Madre in Glendora from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Oct. 30
Oct. 30
ICC Trick or Treat
Halloween Hair Show
The Inter Club Council will be giving out free candy and having booth decorating contests for campus clubs to get students in the Halloween spirit. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Campus Center Mall.
Citrus College Cosmetology Club will be presenting its annual Halloween hair show Oct. 30 in the Campus Center. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. and the show will begin at 6 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $5.
L E T ’ S TA L K T E D TA L K S : Upcoming TED Talks topics showings/discussion in the Campus Center at 1:15 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
NOV. 6 “HOW TO TALK TO VETS ABOUT WAR” “Wes Moore’s heartfelt talk explains the shock of returning home from Afghanistan. He shares the single phrase he heard from civilians on repeat, and shows why it’s just not sufficient. It’s a call for all of us to ask veterans to tell their stories — and listen.”
NOV. 20 “AMERICA’S NATIVE PRISONERS OF WAR”
“Aaron Huey’s effort to photograph poverty in America led him to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where the struggle of the native Lakota people compelled him to refocus. His haunting photos intertwine with a shocking history lesson in this bold, courageous talk.”
Courtesy: TED Talks
THE 1000 BLOCK
Incident Reports
Reports are provided courtesy of the Citrus College Campus Safety Department. A report is not a statement of guilt.
Grand Theft (487 PC)
Vandalism (594 PC)
Drug Law Violation (H&S 11357)
LOCATION: PA East Lobby REPORTED: 10/05/14 CASE #: 2014-118 Disposition: Closed
LOCATION: S1 Parking Lot REPORTED: 10/09/14 CASE #: 2014-122 Disposition: Closed
LOCATION: S8 Parking Lot REPORTED: 09/25/14 CASE #: 2014-112 Disposition: Closed
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LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT OR LIFE ON CAMPUS – FIND IT HERE
T HOOT TWEETS:
@SandraBernhard: @wendimclendonco wait! are you kidding me! are you coming to #citruscollege i will be rolling out the red carpet for you lady Plotzing! @chavelitta11: I’m still pissed off at that ref-.- #citruscollege @Kir_rawr: Love my talented friends. Make sure you all come see MUSEUM at #citruscollege. @markmywords58: I think I can point out the JC students that has been there for 3+ years consecutively without a degree #citruscollege #rcc #nooffense
OWLSTAGRAM:
Battery Against A Sports Official (243.8(b) PC)
Student Misconduct (BP 5500)
QUOTABLE:
“Just as this region teaches us about our past, it has always offered us a window into the future...I can think of no better way to honor our past and protect our future than by preserving the San Gabriel Mountains.” -Barack Obama, the President of the United States of America CITRUS COLLEGE
CLARION Cameron Wisdom editor-in-chief Evan Solano managing editor / art director Careesa Campbell news editor Annemarie Guillen forum editor Staff Writers: Danielle Carlson, Dillon Cooper, Pat Cordova, Mercedes Del Real, Winter Dreschler, Katie Jolgren, Vanessa Maldonado, Macy Olivas, Melissa Peña, La’Mesha Simpson, Stacy Slaughter, Jessica Soto
Use the hashtags: #CCClarion or #citruscollege to be featured on #whatstrending
LOCATION: Library REPORTED: 10/16/14 CASE #: 2014-126 Disposition: Closed
LOCATION: Stadium Field REPORTED: 10/14/14 CASE #: 2014-125 Disposition: Closed
Margaret O’Neil Clarion adviser Stacy K. Long Clarion adviser 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.
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LOCAL
Pasadena to release report of teen shooting
MCT Campus
Los Angeles county Superior Court Judge James C. Chaflant ruled that the city of Pasadena should release a redacted version of the report of the fatal 2012 shooting of Kendrec McDade, an unarmed 19-year-old African American male. Chalfant ruled that rather than keep the entire report secret, he would redact sections of the report that rely on the city’s administrative investigation of the shooting. Chaflant has yet to decide which sections will be released. Source: Los Angeles Times
Arroyo-Seco left out of national monument A Pasadena-based environmental group says the Arroyo-Seco and fire-stricken portions of the Angeles National Forest were cut out of the newly designated 350,000 acres of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument at the last minute without an explanation. Tim Brick, managing director of the Arroyo Seco Foundation, asked for an explanation from U.S. representative Judy Chu and the U.S. Forest Service, but was met with no response. Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune
L.A. Kings player suspended by NHL The Los Angeles Kings defenseman Slava Voynov, 24, was suspended from all team activities after he was arrested Oct. 20 on suspicion of domestic violence in Redondo Beach. Voynov was taken into custody after he and his female companion were at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Torrance seeking medical treatment for her injuries. The woman involved requested confidentiality and information regarding her will not be released. Redondo Beach police and the NHL announced a pending investigation in the incident. Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune
STATE
Bullet train construction approved by Supreme Court The California Supreme Court denied an appeal last week filed by opponents of the state’s first high-speed bullet train in the Central Valley, allowing the first 130 miles of construction for the controversial project to continue. The $68-billion bullet train is supposed to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco in two hours and 40 minutes, traveling at 220-mph train speed. However, the appeals court ruled that the state law required two funding plans. The second plan, which is still being devised, will have to meet stricter ballot measure requirements. Source: Los Angeles Times
Bloomberg backs soda tax in Berkeley
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
NATIONAL Travelers from Ebola-stricken countries to use five U.S. airports Airline passengers flying from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea are required to only arrive at one of five designated U.S. airports for additional screening, the Department of Homeland Security announced Tuesday. Starting Oct. 22, travelers from the three Ebola-stricken countries must fly into John. F. Kennedy International Airport, Chicago O’ Hare International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, MCT Campus Newark Liberty International Airport or Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The five airports already recieve 94 percent of travelers flying from the three West African countries. However, House Republicans, who want a complete ban on travelers flying from the West African countries, criticized the restriction, saying it wasn’t enough to halt the spread of the disease. Source: Los Angeles Times
Man accused of scaling fence, entering White House due in federal court The man arrested for jumping a fence and running into the White House is due in federal court Tuesday. Omar Gonzalez, 42, faces two federal charges of assaulting officers and four other city charges relating to possession of weapons and ammunition. A judge has ordered a mental health evaluation to determine whether the Iraq War veteran is competent to stand trial. Gonzalez remains in federal custody. After being tackled by Secret Service agents, Gonzalez was found carrying a pocket knife at the time of his arrest and it was later found that he had hundreds of rounds of ammunition stored in his car parked nearby. Source: Los Angeles Times
MCT Campus
A campaign to persuade voters in Berkeley, Calif. to impose a 1-centper-ounce tax on sugary drinks is now being backed by billionaire Michael R. Bloomberg, former mayor of New York. The beverage industry has successfully blocked nearly every attempt to nationally levy such a tax by spending $1.4 million, compared to propenents of the tax, who have raised $135,000. To counter the soda industry, Bloomberg’s first donation was $85,000, but the amount he intends to donate over the course of the campaign was not disclosed. Source: The New York Times
Thousands of Californians could lose health care California state officials plan to cancel health care coverage for about 10,500 people with the state’s health insurance exchange because they could not prove that they were citizens or legal residents of the United States. Under the Affordable Care Act, those illegally living in the United States are not eligible for insurance. Last month, Covered California sent nearly 150,000 people notices asking them to prove their legal status. Of the 1.2 million Californians who enrolled for the health insurance, the Obama administration said it would end coverage for about 115,000 people. Source: The New York Times
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MCT Campus
GLOBAL Health agency confirms Nigeria free from Ebola
MCT Campus
Following a 42-day incubation period after the last reported infection in Nigeria, the World Health Organization announced Oct. 20 that the West African country was officially free from the infectious disease, Ebola. The W.H.O. upheld the Nigerian response as an example for Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, the three West African countries in which Ebola is concentrated, that similar action can be taken to stop the spread of the disease. During this epidemic, more than 9,000 people have become infected and more than 4,500 people have died, the W.H.O. reported. Source: The New York Times
Detained American released from North Korea North Korea released one of three Americans it was detaining, the White House announced Oct. 21. Jeffrey Fowle, 56, of Ohio, is on his way back to the United States after being held captive for six months. Fowle told CNN he was taken into custody in May after he tried to leave a Bible on his tour of the country. As a condition of Fowle’s release, the North Korean government asked United States authorities to get him out of the country, but Fowle has yet to face trial for unspecified hostile acts. American officials are still trying to negotiate the release of Americans Matthew Todd Miller and Kenneth Bae. Miller, 24, was sentenced to six years of labor on charges entering the country illegally and attempting to commit an act of espionage, the North Korean News Agency reported. Bae, who has been detained since 2012, is serving a 15-year sentence for “hostile acts.” Source: Los Angeles Times
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“Citrus and APU students said ‘build it and we will ride.’ With Habib and my colleagues, we were able to join forces. Look where we stand today.”
foothill F RO M PA GE 1
Ara Najarian, Metro director, recognized Habib Balian, CEO of the Foothill Extension Construction Authority, as the biggest contributor for this project’s success. “Habib and the board, you are met with respect and dignity because your construction practices are true, your board of governance is true, and no other project in the country can say that,” Najarian said. The Metro Gold Line construction project is expected to create 7,000 jobs and $1 billion in economic benefits for the region, according to a Foothill Gold Line press release. The 11.5-mile Pasadena to Azusa line was fully funded by Measure R and is to be completed within the projected $751 million budget by September 2015. Commuters will not be able to
ride the Pasadena to Azusa segment until Metro completes testing. “The community is realizing that the dream of having the Foothill Gold Line in their town is quickly becoming a reality,” Tessitor said. “A project that has been nearly four years in the making is now less than a year away from completion. The on-time, on-budget project will forever change the transportation and economic landscape of the San Gabriel Valley and Greater Los Angeles region.” Mayors and city council members of cities from Pasadena to Azusa gathered together to unveil a sidewalk dedication marker, signifying the importance and historical significance of the light rail system project and its progression to date.
-Joseph Rocha Azusa mayor
La’Mesha Simpson Clarion
Azusa mayor Joseph Rocha addressed the audience during the Foothill Gold Line Extension ceremony Oct. 18.
“It’s been phenomenal,” Tessitor said. “We would not be here without the cooperation of each and every city in the San Gabriel Valley to get us to this point. We thank every city.”
Measure R will also offset the cost of the light rail system that will continue from Azusa through Montclair. This next phase of the Gold Line has been given clearance by
Obama’s visit draws protest F R O M PA GE 1
It was announced less than two months ago, and it’s happening.” This action marks the 13th time the President has used his executive powers and bypassed congressional approval to establish or expand national monuments. Nelson, who said she frequents the mountains often to hike, said that the public has been left in the dark on this decision, including senators Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer. “We have no knowledge of what the legal language will be because nothing has been written,” she said. “They [the senators] could not comment on it because there’s no language. We don’t know what it’s going to be.” By protesting, Nelson said she hoped the legislators would realize that there is “a public voice that is not happy about this process.” Judy Chu, U.S. representative (D-Monterey Park) disagrees with Nelson. Chu introduced a bill earlier this year that would designate 655,000 acres of the mountains as a national recreation area. She worked with the Obama administration to create this national monument. Chu said that the protestors appear to be uninformed. “They [the protestors] are saying that this is a land grab, but actually the monument can only be on federal land,” Chu said. “They are saying ‘Keep Mt. Baldy out of it’… Mt. Baldy is out of it.” In 2003 when former U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis was serving in the House of Representatives, she introduced a bill that would authorize a national recreation area. During the last decade, Chu said there have been 66 public stakeholder meetings
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Evan Solano Clarion
Citrus College student John Durden, pictured far right, holds a sign protesting President Obama’s executive order that designated 346,000 acres of the Angeles National Forest as the nation’s 110th national monument Oct. 10.
“If you are protecting and preserving, you are not allowing access to certain areas, and you are not allowing people to do certain activities. Those two things go hand-in-hand.” -Judy Nelson
Glendora mayor
Evan Solano Clarion
Glendora mayor Judy Nelson protests in front of Bonelli Park off the Via Verde Ave exit in San Dimas on Oct. 10. Nelson, along with other protestors, disagrees with President Obama using his executive order to designate the San Gabriel Mountains as a national monument.
and a public comment period that took in 16, 800 comments. “This process is a result of 11 ½ years of public input,” Chu said. “In every stage of this whole process we’ve had public input.” Citrus College student John Durden, 24,
of San Dimas was also one of the protestors outside Bonelli Park. He also said there was not enough opportunity for local residents to voice their concern. Durden said he spends time in the mountains enjoying the scenery at Burrow Canyon, practicing shooting and hanging out with friends. “Once this becomes a national monument under the Antiquities Act, it would restrict access,” Durden said. However, Chief of the U.S. Forest Service
the Foothill Board of Directors, but has yet to be funded an additional $1 billion. The Azusa-Citrus station will serve the eastern portion of Azusa as well as Citrus College, Azusa Pacific University, and the Rosedale master planned community currently under development. “Citrus and APU students said ‘build it and we will ride,’” said Joseph Rocha, mayor of Azusa. “With Habib and my colleagues, we were able to join forces. Look where we stand today.”
Thomas Tidwell said the purpose of a national forest is to expand recreational opportunities, not prevent them. “We see this as an opportunity to be able to honor the monument designation and to be able to enhance the recreational experience and increase the access to the population,” he said. “One of the things we want to make sure is that we connect with the communities.” Nelson objected, saying that increasing access while increasing regulations can’t work. “A national monument allows for increased regulations and restrictions,” she said. “If you are protecting and preserving, you are not allowing access to certain areas, and you are not allowing people to do certain activities. Those two things go hand-in-hand.” Those opposing the creation of a national monument are concerned that it may infringe on private property rights, emergency services, battling wildfires and flood control. Chu countered that the public has been repeatedly assured that extra fees, existing private property claims, recreational opportunities and water rights would not be affected. Tidwell also said that the response to wildfires will not change and that fees will not be implemented on places like camping grounds, unless the public approves. “When there is an area that deserves to be recognized as a national monument, it indicates that the historical cultural significance of this area is something that needs a higher level of management,” Tidwell said. “If you went up there today, you’ll see there’s more presence. We’ve already brought on additional crews to work on trails and clean up areas, especially in the San Gabriel River.” With 15 million people living within a 90-minute drive of the San Gabriels, Tidwell stressed the importance of community involvement. “There are so many people who live up and down the mountain range here that either don’t realize they can go up there or don’t know how to do that,” Tidwell said. “That’s what we want to change. We want to increase the access so its easier for folks to get up there and use all of the monument.”
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FEATURES
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
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transfer fair gives students plenty to ponder BY VANESSA MALDONADO STAFF WRITER
VMALDONADO@CCCLARION.COM
The Transfer Center offered students the opportunity to ask critical questions of representatives from a wide variety of universities at the College Transfer Fair event on Oct. 16. During this time of year, students need to know the resources available to them in order to successfully transfer to a four-year university. “Be honest and genuine in the transfer applications,” said Raul Sanchez, career and transfer counselor. His guidance, along with many other counselors in the students’ educational journey, is crucial before transferring to a fouryear university. The Transfer Center welcomed more than 40 state, private and outof-state universities including California State University Fullerton, UC Berkeley, Arizona State University and University of Southern California. Representatives were happy to answer questions from students. Brochures, banners and pens were also up for grabs for students to remember. After speaking to a representative of Arizona State University, Erick Rodriguez immediately applied online and submitted his application for a biochemical engineering major.
“They have a really good science department,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve been to Phoenix before, I like the area and I do want to apply and get to their honors program.” Selecting a college can be difficult for most students, Rodriguez said. He said he chose ASU based on its specialized programs, as well as the fun atmosphere surrounding the city. Grand Canyon University offers a state-of-the-art tour for aspiring students, offering hotel accommodations, food and dining to tour the campus for a weekend. Many schools look for an ideal GPA from applicants, but it also depends on the major to which the student has applied. A minimum of a 2.0 or higher is required, but it is important that students understand that universities seek students who are also active in extracurricular activities. “Throughout the entire application process students have to do well in their classes,” Sanchez said. “The fun is just beginning when the application gets submitted. Performance in the classroom is critical.” Sanchez said that this crucial opportunity for students can be difficult when approaching representatives. As a means to encourage students to speak to universities, Sanchez created a questionnaire that
Vanessa Maldonado Clarion
Seshmila Jayawardana, music major, discusses her transfer options with a representative from UCLA during the College Fair Oct. 16. Representatives from Cal State Fullerton, Cal Poly Pomona and Arizona State University were also available to answer questions for students.
poses questions for applicants to consider. For example, what scholarships and financial aid are available? What are the requirements in your certain major to transfer? What is the minimum GPA acceptable in your major? Darlene Buxton a representative from Cal State Los Angeles, said that students must carefully read all
the information that is given in the college website as well as the college portal available to students. “Our main source of information to our students is through email,” Buxton said. Along with the College Transfer Fair, the Transfer Center provides workshops for students who may be confused in the application pro-
cess and have further questions about transferring. The Transfer Center meetings take place Monday and Tuesday. Further information can be found at the Citrus College website. The fall deadline is approaching soon. The last day to submit CSU applications at www.csumentor. edu is Nov. 30.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
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Obama declares mountains national monument President Barack Obama spoke in Frank G. Bonelli Park, San Dimas, when he signed a proclamation designating 346,000 acres of the San Gabriel Mountains as the country’s 110th national monument. BY CAREESA CAMPBELL NEWS EDITOR
CCAMPBELL@CCCLARION.COM
President Barack Obama traveled to Frank G. Bonelli Park in San Dimas to sign a proclamation Oct. 10 designating 346,000 acres of the Angeles National Forest as the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. Stretching from Santa Clarita to San Bernardino, this region will be federally protected as the country’s 110th national monument. “It is not just the natural beauty of the San Gabriels that makes it invaluable,” Obama said. “Just as this region teaches us about our past, it has always offered us a window into the future...I can think of no better way to honor our past and protect our future than by preserving the San Gabriel Mountains.” Obama compared the journey of designating the region as a national monument to the nation’s enduring past. “The story of the San Gabriel Mountains is in many ways the story of America,” he said. “It is the story of communities exploring the Great West, of Native Americans, Spanish missionaries, colonialists and rancheros, merchants and landowners, the story of prospectors in search of gold, of settlers in search of a new life.” During his administration Obama has bypassed congressional approval and used his executive powers to establish or expand 13 national monuments, preserving more than 3 million acres of land. On Oct. 10, he said he is “not finished.” Obama said he would continue to preserve the nation’s lands, especially where communities are speaking up. “That’s what makes this particular destination so important,” he said. “We heard from the community that for a lot of urban families, this is their only big outdoor space. “Too many children in L.A. County, especially children of color, don’t have access to parks where they can run free, breathe fresh air, experience nature and enjoy their environment,” Obama said. The president continued saying his commitment to conserving land is not to “lock up” America’s natural wonders, but to open up the opportunity for the world to see. “It’s not enough to have this awesome natural wonder within your sight, you have to be able to access it,” Obama said. “We’ll keep working with you to make sure that everybody in this diverse community, no matter where they come from or what
Evan Solano Clarion
President Barack Obama signed a proclamation dedicating 346,000 acres of the San Gabriel Mountains as a national monument Oct. 10 at Frank G. Bonelli Park in San Dimas. The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is the country’s 110th federally protected region.
“We see this as an opportunity to be able to honor the monument designation and to be able to enhance the recreational experience and increase the access to the population.” -Thomas Tidwell
Chief of the U.S. Forest Service language they speak, can enjoy all that this monument has to offer.” Obama said that preserving these mountains is the first step in a broader effort to address the laundry list of maintenance issues affecting the region. Due to lack of funding, officials from the U.S. Forest service are unable to provide constant surveillance over the vast range and the mountains are bombarded with trash, wildfires, graffiti and crime. Advocates say the 3 million annual visitors to the range pose a risk to the mountains and themselves by littering, building illegal
fires and injuring or killing themselves on dangerous hiking trails. Thomas Tidwell, chief of the U.S. Forest Service said the purpose of a national forest is to expand recreational opportunities, not prevent them. As a national monument, the U.S. Forest Service will have the means to protect the mountain’s natural resources and wildlife, prevent the pollution and crowding problems and improve the ranges by installing new parking lots, restrooms and educational signs and trails, federal officials said.
“We see this as an opportunity to be able to honor the monument designation and to be able to enhance the recreational experience and increase the access to the population,” Tidwell said. “One of the things we want to make sure is that we connect with the communities.” Obama said that the 15 million people who live within a 90-minute drive of the mountains will be able to observe, explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the range for generations to come. “We are blessed to have the most beautiful landscapes in the world,” Obama said. “We have the responsibility to be good stewards of those landscapes for future generations.” The president called the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument a “geography of hope that is the birthright of all Americans.” “The notion of a national monument is interesting,” he said. “It reminds us that America belongs to all of us, not just some of us.”
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” - Mahatma Ghandi Come to the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development in the Campus Center for information and an application or call us at (626) 852-6444 *Deadline for applications is 2:00 pm, Thursday, November 20 Elections will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 4 & 5
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
SPOTLIGHT
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•BR EAK ING DOW N THE CAN DIDA TES & PRO PS ON THE BAL LOT• “THE GOLDE N STATE ” BOOKIN G
Presents
SACTO SHOWDOWN CALiFORNIA MID-TERM ELECTION GUIDE
TUESTH.
04NOV.
NEeL
“THE NEW GU Y ” KASHKARI (R VS. )
D N U M ED
” Y R R “JE D) ( N BROW
WORDS BY: CAREESA CAMPBELL PHOTO ILLUSTRATION: EVAN SOLANO & MICKEY ROMERO
Mid-term elections are around the corner and it’s time to vote on the propositions and candidates presented on the Nov. 4 ballot that will affect our future. the six propositions, as well as the candidates for governor, have been broken down in objective pro/con explanations in order for you to make the best choice.
SPOTLIGHT
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NEEL KASHKARI 41, Republican degree from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and began working for the investment bank Goldman Sachs. Kashkari followed Goldman Sachs CEO Hank Paulson to the Department of Treasury in 2006 as a senior adviser and eventually rose to Assistant Secretary
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Edmund “Jerry” Brown 76, Democrat
Neel Kashkari was born and raised outside the
Running Mate: Ron Nehring Endorsers: Gov. Mitt Romney Gov. Jeb Bush Gov. Pete Wilson Education: MBA degree, University of Pennsylvania (2002)
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
prevented an economic collapse. The program he implemented, known as TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program), helped stabilize the economy and restart economic growth. Kashkari left the Department of Treasury in 2009 to work with nounced his candidacy for governor in January 2014. His top priorities as governor of California would be to create more jobs, improve public education and redirecting high-speed rail bond money toward critical water storage projects.
Edmund Gerald “Jerry” Brown Jr. is the incumbent governor of California. He grew up in San Francisco and was the son of former governor of California Edmund Gerald “Pat” Brown Sr. Brown attended college in the San Francisco area at the University of Santa Clara & University of California, Berkeley before attending Yale Law School. After graduating in 1964, Brown worked as a law clerk to California Supreme Court Justice Mathew Tobriner and went on to become governor of California has held numerous political positions in the state of California such as chairman of the state Democratic Party, mayor of Oakland, and California Attorney General. Among many accomplishments environmental protections that are now used as guidelines across the nation. Seeking his fourth orities would be to maintain the steady increase in
MCT Campus
Running Mate: Gavin Newsom Endorsers: California Police Chiefs & Sheriffs California Teachers Education: JD degree, Yale Law School (1964)
also said he intends to use new funds this year to improve the school system after years of budget cuts.
PROP 1
California is relying on outdated water storage and delivery systems. This prop would allow the state to use $425 million in approved bonds and sell an additional $7.1 billion in bonds to pay for the local and state projects for the improvement of state water systems. It would take the state about $360 million per year for 40 years to repay the bonds.
THE WATER INITIATIVE
PRO:
BEST WAY TO PAY FOR THE OVERDUE INVESTMENTS IN IMPROVING THE STATE’S WATER MANAGEMENT AND SUPPLY
AYERS’ MONEY WILL CON: tAXP BE SHIFTED FROM LOCAL
PROJECTS AND EDUCATION
Proposition 45
HEALTHCARE INS URANCE RATES yes: Healthcare insurance co sts w
Prop 45 would require health insurers to have changing rates or other charges associated with health insurance.
ill be contro
lled
VS
no: The elected insurance com
PROP 47
misioner would have m ore power an d would complicate s tate rules
Prop 2 State Budget YES
Reserve NO
Government new rules would be would make forced to it d v if f ic s u l t for save money s c h o ols to in good r e ceive years and adequate pay debts funding faster
PROP 46
MEDICAL
S AFETY A ND lAWSUITS pro: Import ant patie nt me asure s would be intro duced an d doct ors held account able for m alpr ac tice. con: DRUG TESTING AND DATAB ASE INVADE PRIVACY
2014
PRO: law enforcement would refocus on serious and violent crime. High prison spending on lowlevel nonviolent crimes will be reduced CON: Our jails will overcrowd and jam the courts with resentencing hearings
amount of money that can be reserve and how much of that money can be used. For 15 years, there would be less money to spend in the state budget, but long term, less money would be spent on debts.
Medical negligence lawsuits that involve non-economic damages known as “pain and suffering” is limited to $250,000. Prop 46 would increase this limit to $1.1 million and subject doctors to drug and alcohol testing. Health care workers would be required to multiple prescriptions.
nov. 4th
REDUCING CRIMINAL PENALTIES
NOV. 4
A “rainy day fund” has been set aside to balance the state budgets. Prop 2 would change
Proposition 47 would reduce the penalty for nonviolent felonies to misdemeanors unless the offender has prior convictions for violent and serious crimes. A convicted felon could get misdemeanor. This could save millions of dollars annually due to shortened terms in jail.
PROPOSITION 48
INDIAN GAMING AGREEMENTS pro: The North Fork Tribe casino
would create 4,000 jobs and has local support
CON: The agreements would change
laws about where tribes can operate casinos and could open up the door to more gambling
Indian Tribes are allowed to operate casinos on Indian lands if the tribe, state, and federal government agree. The North Folk Rancheria and Wiyot Tribes created an agreement to build a casino on property not connected to their reservation.
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CITRUS COLLEGE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
CLARION
FEATURES
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Honorary Degrees awarded 70 years later BY DANIELLE CARLSON STAFF WRITER
DCARLSON@CCCLARION.COM
Two former students, whose lives were disrupted by forced relocation during World War II, received honorary degrees in a special ceremony conducted yesterday by Citrus College officials. During World War II, 127,000 United States citizens were sent to internment camps. What was their crime? Being of Japanese descent. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 on Feb. 19, 1942, authorizing the relocation of all West Coast Japanese-Americans. Americans of Japanese ancestry were forced to sell their homes and most of their belongings when they were relocated to the internment camps in scattered locations around the country. At a historic ceremony yesterday, Citrus administrators did their best to right that wrong. “[Roosevelt] authorized the U.S. Secretary of War to remand certain areas of the United States as military zones and gave the military power to ban any citizen from a 50mile to 60-mile wide coastal area stretching from Washington state to California and extend it inland to Arizona,” said Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D., superintendent/president of Citrus College. As a result, two first-year Citrus Junior College students, Toshio Asano and Masako Muki Kusumoto, were unable to complete their degrees. During the ceremony Gerald Sequeria, dean of admissions and records, explained what happened to Asano and Kusumoto. “Mr. Asano’s education was cut short by Executive Order 9066 when he and his family were forced to evacuate to the Heart Mountain Camp in Wyoming,” Sequeria said. “While in the camp, Mr. Asano was drafted into the U.S. Army and became an interpreter, serving in the Philippines and Japan.” Sequeria went on to say that the U.S. Army also recognized his athleticism, which lead to Asano playing softball in the Army Olympics. After being discharged in 1945, Asano returned to Monrovia. He continued to play softball for 20 more years until he was in his early 50s. He worked for MidWay Ford until his retirement. He was married in 1949 and has two daughters. Asano attended the ceremony and accepted his honorary degree. Next, Sequeria went on to narrate what happened to Kusumoto. “In 1942, during her fourth semester, Ex-
Melissa Peña Clarion
President of Board of Trustees Patricia A. Rasmussen (left) and Joanne Montgomery, vice president (right), pose with Toshio Asano (center) as he accepts his honorary associate degree.
ecutive Order 9066 interrupted her studies,” Sequeria said. “Her permanent record card states that she left in March 26, 1942.” Kayle Matsushima, Kusumoto’s grandniece, said that her great aunt choose to go to Iowa during her relocation. Matsushima explained that the transfer from California did not stop her great aunt from receiving her education. Kusumoto attended Iowa State Teachers College. She moved to Hawaii in 1945, where she taught school on a sugar plantation in her childhood neighborhood and later specialized in reading and teaching grade school. “I believe she also went to Columbia and got her masters in education,” Matsushima said. “I know more about her as a kid where she was my private educator. Ultimately it worked out very well. She got to travel the world a couple of times.” Kusumoto died in 1980 in Wailuku, Maui. Matasushima received her honorary degree in her aunt’s honor. “This is awesome,” Matasushima said. “It’s something that a lot of places are doing. It does seem a little overdue, but it is great that it’s happening. We are more than happy to accept this on behalf of my great aunt.” In 2009, then California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law AB 37, which requires public colleges and universities to confer honorary degrees upon persons, alive or deceased, who were forced to
Melissa Peña Clarion
Kayle Matsushima (left) accepts an honorary associate degree on behalf of her great aunt Masako Mukai Kusumoto from Patricia A. Rasmussen (right).
leave their studies due to Executive Order 9066. Asano and Kusumoto were found through a records search conducted by Sequeria and ERP Coordinator Joyce Miyabe. Miyabe connected to the students’ stories personally. In a phone interview, she said that both of her parents were mandated to move to internment camps. She said that her family was seen as enemy aliens because of their Japanese ancestry. Miyabe’s father was relocated to a camp
in Wyoming while her mother was relocated to Idaho. Miyabe said that she discovered that her father and Asano had similar stories because both men were drafted into the U.S. Army. It is significant that the United States is finally recognizing the wrong done to Japanese Americans so many years ago, Miyabe said.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
11
For chills and thrills:
Knott’s Scary Farm fears and ‘a-maze-s’ BY DANIELLE CARLSON STAFF WRITER
DCARLSON@CCCLARION.COM
Demonic spirits, creatures witches and ghosts lurk out of the fog to revisit to the most anticipated horror experience this Halloween season: Knott’s Scary Farm. With the haunt industry growing exponentially, Knott’s has stepped up its game to spook the competition. This year the haunted amusement park introduced two new mazes: “Tooth Fairy” and “Voodoo” bringing a scary total of 10 mazes. “Tooth Fairy” casts a light on a harmless childhood fairytale by transforming it into a blood and gore fest. The story adaptation is that the real Tooth Fairy has been captured by a demented look-alike who attacks anyone who places a tooth under his or her pillow. The maze features gory scenes in which children are wounded by the Tooth Fairy. Dentist chairs are scattered throughout the attraction to give it a real “dental” feel. A creative twist on a classic tale, “Tooth Fairy” is definitely worth experiencing. Striving for innovation, Knott’s has created a second new maze: “Voodoo.” Unlike the other labyrinths within the park, Voodoo contains no walls or hallways, leaving visitors to roam where they please. Throughout the open attraction, visitors enter a Deep South area located in New Orleans where zombies roam and witchcraft is used to posess innocent souls. This maze is unlike any other this Halloween season, causing Knott’s to have a spooky edge on its competitors. However, with no walls or pathways and no signs pointing out the proper route, confused guests wander with no sense of direction. The result is awkward encounters
In the Tooth Fairy maze, individuals are greeted by the Dentist that fills children’s nightmares. Knott’s Scary Farm is from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Sunday until Nov. 1. Photo courtesy of Knott’s Berry Farm
with other equally lost groups. Back by popular demand, the Scary Farm brings you the ever clever “Elvira: Mistress of the Dark.” In a circus-themed show titled “Elvira’s Big Top,” the mistress plays the part of a ringleader introducing acts that follow a carnival theme. Queen Elvira enters the stage singing a parody of Iggy Azalea’s hit single “Fancy” with lyrics such as, “I’m so freaky/ Welcome to my show,” causing her fans to riot.
The first act features a patient from an insane asylum. His performance was a circus standard: a sword swallower. The entertainer would swallow up to three long swords at a time perplexing the audience with his technique. The second act is a female contortionist. Although her act is amusing, nothing was more exciting to the onlookers that Elvira’s witty, inappropriate jokes and her musical performances. The mistress concludes her
freakshow with a rendition of Jessie J’s song, “Bang Bang,” as the audience calls out for more. Perhaps the best thing about the spine-chilling park this year is the overall feel. Zombies, ghosts and other horrifying creatures terrify visitors leaving them on edge while as they roam around the amusement park. Dense fog released throughout the area and dark, gloomy lighting give the demonic monsters an easier time to hide. The result is hair-
raising suspense for the spectators. Though it may lack the professionalism of Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, Knott’s Scary Farm has managed to maintain the overall fun atmosphere that makes thrill seekers return every year. Knott’s Scary Farm is from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Sunday until Nov. 1. General admission is $39 and the unlimited terror season pass costs $75. Parking is $20.
Danielle Carlson Clarion
Horror seeking visitors begin their spooky adventure by entering the gates of CarnEvil. The CarnEvil scare zone features evil clowns and freaky side shows.
The Voodoo Queen greets onlookers entering the Voodoo Maze. Be careful, she might take your soul. Photo courtesy of Knott’s Berry Farm
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CLARION CITRUS COLLEGE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
A&E
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‘Little Shop’ to deliver big laughs and A few scares The flesh-eating Audrey II sets the stage for Halloween at the Haugh Performing Arts Center. BY KATIE JOLGREN STAFF WRITER
KJOLGREN@CCCLARION.COM
Over The Rainbow A Musical Tribute to the Artistry of Judy Garland featuring Hilary Kole and Big Band Sunday October
26
at 2PM
Tickets: $34 Student/Senior: $32
Citrus Fine and Performing Arts Department Music Theatre Workshop presents
Little Shop of Horrors Fri I Oct 31 @ 8PM Sun I Nov 2 @ 2PM Tickets: $22 Student/Senior: $20 16 & under: $15
Saturday November
1
1:30PM & 3:30PM
Presale Single Tickets: $8 Day of Show: $10
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
There is no better way to spend Halloween night than by watching a campy, gore-filled musical about a flesh-eating plant that poses a deadly threat to the human race. So goes the delightfully gruesome tale of “Little Shop of Horrors,” written by Howard Ashman and composed by Alan Menken. A hapless florist shop worker on skid row accidentally raises a flesh-and-blood eating plant. Dazzled by the possibility of fame and fortune, the shopworker leads many unsuspecting individuals to their untimely deaths. The story takes the audience through the life of Seymour Krelborn, a down-and-out orphan working in Mushnik’s flower shop with Audrey, his tacky-yetpretty love interest. Seymour has no hopes for a bright future until the day he stumbles upon a strange looking plant and decides to raise it, naming it Audrey II. “Seymour is very self-conscious and a geeky stereotype who doesn’t want to step on anyone’s toes,” said Brandon Jenkins, a third-year Citrus Singer who plays Seymour. “But as the show progresses, we see Seymour gets backed into a corner.” This dark comedy plays off the gritty vibe of its setting with doo-wop inspired musical numbers, including “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Skid Row (Downtown)”. The show opens with Chiffon, Crystal and Ronnette, the street urchin members of a 1960s girl group trio. Perhaps the most interesting part of the show is when the use of the puppets as Audrey II, start growing. Operated by several puppeteers during its growth stages, the plant eventually becomes large enough to swallow a man whole. Actor Jeramiah Calhoun, third-year Citrus Singer, is the voice of Audrey II.
Audrey II is the “star” of the Clarion hit musical “Little Shop of Horrors.” The people-eating 2014 Venus flytrap belongs to plant shop employee, Seymour Krelborn. (Photo courtesy of prime-movies.net)
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While he plays one of the most significant characters onstage, the audience never sees Calhoun. “It’s weird to be singing for a puppet, to be the voice of something else,” Calhoun said. “You don’t need to be shy, the audience doesn’t see you, only the plant. “You really need to put all your passion and focus into your voice,” Calhoun continued. “It’s not easy. You have to do the part justice.” With fewer than 30 members in a cast comprised solely of Citrus Singer students, professor John Vaughan, the show’s choreographer, said the quality of the performance will be top-notch. “I was very lucky in that I was able to secure the Broadway set and costumes for this show,” Vaughan said. “We’re really saved by the Broadway set. In 2003 there was a Broadway revival where everything got bigger and better so it fits perfectly on the Haugh stage. Production value is going to be out of the ballpark.” The show delivers its fair share of laughs, and the actors appear to be enjoying themselves onstage. “Despite the endless dark references and the negative aspects of the show, it’s truly fun and funny,” Jenkins said. “It’s been a really cool experience to be a part of.” To round out Halloween weekend, catch “Little Shop of Horrors” on the Haugh stage Friday, Oct. 31, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 2, at 2 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the Haugh box office or at www.haughpac.com for $22 for the public, $20 for students/seniors and $15 for ages 16 and under. “This show is over-the-top, campy and fun,” Vaughan said. “Even though it has a dark story line to it, it’s perfect for your Halloween.”
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CLARION CITRUS COLLEGE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
13
Photo courtesy of Universal Studios
Universal studios tears and terrorizes Universal Studios of Hollywood presents the anticipated Halloween Horror Nights event, filled of frightening monsters, adventurous rides, and satisfying food. BY PAT CORDOVA-GOFF
Left: Frightened visitors are sent shrieking away from chainsaw swinging zombies throughout the “From Dusk til Dawn maze.” Halloween Horror Nights will continue every Thursday through Sunday until Nov. 2 at Universal Studios. Photo courtesy of Universal Studios
STAFF WRITER
PCORDOVA@CCCLARION.COM
From the “Walking Dead” “terrifyingly apocalyptic” maze to the “Despicable Me” Minion Mayhem ride, Universal Studios annual Halloween Horror Nights doesn’t disappoint. Like Citrus College, Universal Studios is celebrating its own centennial year, having been established as a movie studio on March 14, 1915. This time of the year, Universal opens Thursday through Sunday from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. to thousands of visitors anticipating the scare of a lifetime. As visitors enter through gates draped in webs and blood, they see a petite woman auctioning off a close-to-death victim, and thus begins this spine-chilling experience. With a witty tongue and blood-curdling laugh, similar to Effie Trinket of “The Hunger Games,” she sets the mood for a night full of fear and fun. As crowds wander from attractions to mazes, costumed zombies explode from dark corners with blaring chainsaws shocking the underprepared. As if the scene could not be more intense, smoke machines generate dense fog in the walkways, limiting visitors’ ability to see even a few feet ahead. The maniacal laughter and screams continue throughout the park’s seven frightening mazes. The “From Dusk Til Dawn” maze features an ancient temple, set under a nightclub scene, where snake-like “culebras” drink human blood to satisfy their thirst. The six other mazes are spin-offs of popular shows and movies, including “The Walking Dead”, “Alien vs. Predator”, “Dracula”, “Face Off”, “Clowns 3D”, and “An American Werewolf in London”.
Below: The blood-drenched and zombie-filled path of the horrifying maze inspired by the Walking Dead series awaits vistors seeking an adventure like no other. Halloween Horror Nights guests can explore many more mazes throughout their visit at Universal Studios. Photo courtesy of Universal Studios
The “American Werewolf in London” maze, a continuous sequence of petrifying turns and surprises, proved to be particularly effective. Although visitors brace themselves in anticipation of the next creature who will leap at them, the maze’s blood-drenched werewolves and corpses provided a horrifying adventure. Across the park, thrill-seeking visitors can ride Halloween Horror’s various attractions, including “Despicable Me” Minion Mayhem; “Transformers: The Ride- 3D”; “Jurassic ParkIn The Dark”; and “The Simpsons” Ride. “Revenge of the Mummy”: The Ride, in particular, is worth the wait. Riders find themselves shot through the dark as ancient artifacts and frightening creatures are hurtling their way. After soaring at what seems to be perilous speeds, riders come to an abrupt halt only to encounter the creepiest of sensations as what feels like spiders crawl over their feet. Once visitors take a break from bone-chilling mazes and adrenaline-rush rides, what is left of their stomachs can easily be satisfied at the park’s restaurants and snack stands. For $10 to $15, enormous turkey legs and slices of chocolate cake, as well as countless more options, can kill your hunger pangs.
Universal Studios provides visitors with a sensational horror movie Halloween experience. Visitors fear for their lives only to wish for a second runthrough once they leave the park. Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights continues through Nov. 2. Prices are listed on the Universal Studios website, www.halloweenhorrornights.com. Citrus College students with ASCC sticker, are eligible for discounted student tickets available in the Cashier’s Office located on the first floor of Student Services.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
15
EDITORIAL
VOTING: Why Owls should give a hoot A
s Americans we are blessed to have the right to vote for our leaders and legislation. It is a right that citizens in other countries fight and die for, yet here we are taking it for granted. The misguided notion that one vote won’t make a difference plagues the millennial generation and it will continue to do so if we remain sitting idly by while the older generations dictate our future. The midterm General Election is Nov. 4. It is time to educate ourselves, not just because we are students but because we are Americans. A 2013 study by the International Center
for Media and the Public Agenda found that college-age students discuss and consume political topics less than ever before. The same study also suggests that the reason for this behavior is because students are feeling disconnected and don’t see the direct influence voting can and will have on their lives. Proposition 2, which is on the Nov. 4 ballot along with five other initiatives, would establish a rainy day fund so that the state of California can meet its financial obligation to public schools in bad tax revenue years. For those of you who are not economics majors, that description probably made little to no sense. But here is why Prop 2
YOU HEARD WHAT WE HAD TO SAY, NOW LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK! SOUND OFF AT: CONTACT@CCCLARION.COM OR ON TWITTER: @CCCLARION
The Clarion staff recognizes its role as a conduit for the expression of opinion. We will accept all letters addressed to the editor, but reserve the right to determine and edit the content of the publication for space and grammar. The decision to publish a letter shall not be based on the letter’s agreement with the editorial positions of the Clarion staff. Letters should be limited to 350 words or less. Letters that are obscene, libelous, incomprehensible, or racially/sexually/religiously offensive will not be published under any circumstance. Letters to the editor can be addressed to Editor-in-Chief:
CAMERON WISDOM CWISDOM@CCCLARION.COM OR CONTACT@CCCLARION.COM
should matter to you. Current state law requires that local school districts maintain a reserve that is no less than one to five percent of their annual budget depending on the size of their district. If the new school reserve is funded, courtesy of Prop 2, then these local school districts can reserve a maximum of 10 percent of their annual budgets also depending on the size of their district. Citrus College already has a reserve fund, but if Prop 2 passes, the balance on that account could not exceed 10 percent of the annual budget. The purpose of this proposition is to
help prevent schools from reserving more money than they are spending on students and staff. This proposition directly affects Citrus College and yet a majority of the student population has no idea what this proposition could have in store for them. If you can binge watch a whole series on Netflix and cast your vote for the next American Idol, then you can spare an hour researching the issues and candidates on the Nov. 4 ballot. We are the future of this country and we need to grab hold of that power. Go out and vote or live with the consequences of your inaction.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
R
acism is despicable and by no means should it ever be accepted. Every day unarmed blacks are shot and killed. This is abhorrent, but it speaks to a violence problem, not racism. There are daily black on black, and black on white shootings, but are ignored because white on black stories captivate the public. The media’s heavy emphasis on race makes the problem bigger than reality. Just recently, an opinion column was published in this newspaper that read, “Racism: An American Tradition.” The implications of calling racism an American tradition are first, that America is a deeply racist country; and second that racism somehow affects America in a special manner like no other place. This is classic race-baiting. The column continues, “turning a blind eye to the truth of racism jeopardizes the much needed growth.” America is not a racist country. To say that Americans turn a blind eye is plainly false. There certainly racists in America, but American society doesn’t tolerate bigotry, so much that whenever a racist person makes a headline there is such a huge uproar against them and they lose their jobs. If America does have a race problem, race-baiters are not the one’s with the answer. All they want to do is point at white people and say “It’s only you, not us.” Race-baiters ignore statistics and push the narrative that whites are out to get blacks, and will say, “You can’t be racist against white people, because white people are the ones in power,” but again statistics are not on their side. A study conducted by Rasmussen found that “Among black Americans, 31 percent think most blacks are racist, while 24 percent consider most whites racist and 15 percent view most Hispanics that way.” The truth is if there really is a problem of racism in America, it is not just “white people’s fault.” There are racists in the Democratic, Republican, Green and Libertarian Party, but they are not racist parties. Similarly, there are some racists in America, but that doesn’t make America racist. Best, Former Legislative Liaison for ASCC Gabriel Nadales
D
ear Editor-in-Chief Cameron Wisdom & Staff Writer Pat Cordova-Goff, Thank you so much for talking about racism in America! Too often, people refuse to talk about racism because it makes them feel uncomfortable. It means so much to me that my school would talk about this issue in a serious and enlightening way. As a queer woman of color who holds two different leadership positions at Citrus, I often find myself helping others who identify in ways similar to my own. I find that acknowledging race, socioeconomic class, and the privileges or disadvantages that come with those things, is the only way to truly help or understand the unique struggles of other people. People of color struggle every single day, in ways that people who experience white privilege cannot understand unless it is brought to their attention. Racism is not over in this country and I’m glad that somebody finally said it. -Sara Acevedo, 26, sociology major
NOV 7
TH