dudestock coming Murder Most Foul prepare for the inaugural end of the year performance called ‘Dudestock’. Read more about the band and the class dubbed ‘Dude Rock’. PAGE 9
million veterans in California as of 2013
source: United States Department of Veterans Affairs
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Deadline to run for student office nears By Jessica Soto News Editor • jsoto@ccclarion.com
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s the spring semester comes to a close, the Associated Students of Citrus College are preparing to elect a new executive board for the fall. According to Adrienne Thompson, supervisor of student life and leadership development, students should run for an executive board position only “if [they] truly want to commit to something bigger than themselves and help make a difference for other students. The wrong reason to get in-
ning for student government must go to the Office of Student Life and request an application for any of the following: president, vice president, legislative liaison and seven senator positions. “I encourage people to be a part of ASCC and actually have a voice in the student government,” said Gabriel Nadales, candidate for president of ASCC. “I like the fact that when I was legislative liaison the board was pretty diverse, we always had a lively debate and that’s good when dealing with policy.” ASCC President Tyler Hernandez The role of the president is to chair all executive board meetings and follow volved is because it looks good on a transcript or an application for trans- through on all business. The student body president is elected for two sefer.” Students who are interested in run- mesters.
The vice president assumes the responsibilities of the president in his/ her absence and is ex-officio member of all ASCC committees. The vice president position is one semester. The responsibility of the legislative liaison is to inform the executive board of events, actions and proposals that may impact the interests of the student body. This position is also a two semester position. Senators are responsible for handling specific aspects of the campus and serving as liaisons between the executive board and the academic departments in their areas. Applications are being accepted until May 23 at 2 p.m. Candidates are vetted - See ASCC Election, pg. 3
scorecard has citrus improving By Jessica Soto News Editor • jsoto@ccclarion.com
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he Student Success Scorecard has been released for the second year by the California Community Colleges Chancellors Office and this year Citrus gets an improved rating. The scorecard is required by the 2012 Student Success Act and provides the public with cumulative data of the state’s 112 community colleges through each academic year. A year ago, Citrus was advertising itself as a college of completion when the scorecard said otherwise, coming in at nearly 5 percent below the state average for completion in the 2012-13 academic year. However, the 2013-14 scorecard shows Citrus at only 1.7 percent below the state average, which is 48.1 percent. The numbers reflect a cohort of students from 2007-08 and tracks their progress over the course of six years. The cohort is given six years to achieve an outcome in terms of degrees, certificates or transfers. “Our own comparative studies of students availing themselves of the more recent success strategies have shown an increase in student performance and outcomes,” said Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D., superintendent/president of Citrus College. There are five categories shown on the scorecard: Completion tracks percentages of degree, certificate and/or
Joe Moreno Clarion
transfer-seeking students who complete a degree, certificate or transferrelated outcomes. 30 Units follows the percentage of degree, certificate and/or transferseeking students who achieved at least 30 units. Persistence records the percentage of degree, certificate and/or transferseeking students who enrolled in three consecutive terms. Remedial shows the percentage of credit students who started below transfer level in English, mathematics and/or ESL and completed a collegelevel course in the same discipline.
Career Technical Education monitors the percentage of students who completed more than eight units in courses classified as career technical education in a single discipline and completed a degree, certificate or transferred. In order to be a part of the cohort reflected in the scorecard students must have earned a minimum of six units with their first three years of college and attempted at least one math or English course. There were 2,225 students tracked for the 2014 scorecard. In the Persistence, 30 Units and
Completion categories students are broken down into two other sections: prepared and unprepared. This is determined by the students placement in their math and english classes. Persistance is the category in which Citrus has surpassed the state average by 0.3 percent with a 70.8 percent average, meaning the cohort from 2007-08 has continued to enroll consecutively for three semesters or more. “This metric is considered a milestone or momentum point. Research - See Scorecard, pg.3
financial aid site clarifies process By Joe Moreno Staff Writer • jmoreno@ccclarion.com
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nrollment in a California community college serves as an economical way to minimize the financial impact of the first two years of higher education. Yet a college degree still comes at a cost. To help students afford it, the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office has launched an updated and redesigned version of its financial aid awareness website. The site aims to help students navigate their numerous financial aid options. “Unfortunately, too many Californians do not apply for assistance because they wrongly think they can’t afford college, they believe it will take too long to complete the forms, or they are mystified by the process,” California Community Colleges Chancellor Brice W. Harris said in an emailed statement. “Isn’t it worth 30 minutes to potentially get thousands of dollars in aid to pay for your education?” The site will make the process “easier, faster and more convenient for students to find out about the types of aid for which they are eligible and how to apply so they can make their higher education dreams a reality,” Harris said. The newly revamped site is easierto-navigate, offers a clear picture of the many different types of financial aid available and directly connects students to the required forms or to one-on-one assistance at their local college, said CCCCO Director of Communications Paige Marlatt Dorr. “Financial aid advisors and directors from around the state participated in the development of the revised website,” Dorr said. Students who access the chancellor’s site may research the aggregated list of earnings of graduates to provide an estimate of potential wages, the Student Success Scorecard, which details student performance at all 112 colleges, and the Associate Degree for - See Financial Aid, pg. 3
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Wednesday, May 21, 2014
QUOTE
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ISSUE “You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.” ~Clay P. Bedford
Announcements Jan Daley: Where There’s Hope A tribute to the Love Songs from Bob Hope’s Legacy Jan Daley brings her nostalgic look on legendary comedian Bob Hope to the Haugh Performing Arts Center May 24 at 2 p.m. General tickets: $32. Student/Senior tickets: $30.
Spring Music Concert The Spring Music Concert will showcase the talents of the Citrus Singers, Concert Choir, Women’s Ensemble, and the Sierra Wind Symphony among many more. The musical event will take place May 31 at 8 p.m. in the Haugh Performing Arts Center. Tickets are sold for $5.
“Motion!” The Citrus College Dance Department presents “Motion!” Directed by John Vaughan. The faculty and students of Citrus have choreographed dances for fans of jazz, ballet, hip-hop and more. It will take place June 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. in the Haugh Performing Arts Center. Tickets: $5.
“Girls Aloud!” The Citrus Women’s Ensemble presents “Girls Aloud!” Directed by Vonetta Mixon, the talented members of the Women’s Ensemble present their annual musical showcase in the Citrus Little Theatre. Tickets: $12. student/senior: $10. June 6 and 7 at 8 p.m. June 7 and 8 at 2 p.m.
Pop Rock Battle Presented by the Citrus Music Department, the Battle of the Pop Rock Bands will take place in the Haugh Performing Arts Center June 10 at 8 p.m. Pre-show starts at 7:30 p.m. Presale tickets: $7. $10 at the door.
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UCLA plans to raise $4.2 billion for 2019 cenntenial UCLA has announced they will begin a $4.2 billion fundraising campaign. This is the largest effort put forth by any state university in the country. The money raised would increase student financial aid, increase faculty hiring and research and also construct new campus buildings. UCLA has already raised $1.3 billion in what they are calling the “quiet phase” that began in 2011 and included several large donations. UCLA Chancellor Gene Block noted that recent rankings of universities have placed UCLA in the top dozen and it is often one of the only universities founded in the 20th century, while the others go as far back as 1636. Excess financial aid would allow UCLA to match offers of private colleges recruiting talented students. Additional funds would also be used for faculty salaries, labs and research.
Two men convicted in Colby fire Clifford Eugene Henry, 22, and Steven Robert Aguirre, 21, were convicted of starting an illegal campfire that sparked the Colby fire in January. A jury found these men guilty of one felony and three misdenmeanor counts of lighting and failing to control an illegal campfire, the U.S. Attorney’s office said. The trial for the third defendant, Jonathan Jarrell, 24, was set to begin May 20. The Colby fire, sparked the morning of Jan. 16, destroyed five homes and 17 other structures. At least three people, including two fire fighters, were injured. Henry said the fire may have been sparked by his “marijuana smoking,” the affidavit said. Jarrell threw a notebook into the fire as a gust of wind allegedly came out of nowhere carrying the burning paper into a bush, the affdavit said. The men told investigators they tried to stamp out the flames but couldn’t and they ran down the hillside.
Source: Los Angeles Times
Source: Los Angeles Times
STATE Unemployment rate falls below 8 percent California employers added a net 56,100 jobs in April, helping push the unemployment rate below 8 percent for the first time in nearly six years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. The last time the unemployment rate was below eight percent was in September 2008 when it stood at 7.9 percent. Education and health services had the largest gain expanding by 19,400 jobs. Leisure and hospitality was the second highest gain with 13,400 jobs added. Professional and business services added 11,900 jobs. Housing recovery also helped boost hiring in construction adding 7,100 jobs. California payrolls have expanded 2.25 percent faster than the U.S. overall. Since April 2013 California employers have added 340, 200 jobs to their work forces. Texas was the only other state that added more jobs growing by 348,000 over the same span of time.
Community College students and online classes The success rates of students taking online courses is below that of their peers taking the in-person courses, according to a report released by the Public Policy Institute of California, a nonprofit and nonpartisan think tank that focuses on the state’s public programs. During the 2011-12 academic year, nearly 20 percent of community college students taking credit courses were taking them online. According to the report in 2011-12, 79.4 percent of student completed online courses compared with 85.9 percent of student completing traditional courses. Only 60.4 percent of students achieved passing grades in their online courses while traditional courses had a completion rate nearly ten percent higher.
Source: Los Angeles Times
Source: The Chronicle
National Coaches make more than Presidents at top public colleges
Obama orders review of execution policy
The highest paid public employee is not the governor or the university presidents; It’s the public college football or basketball coaches. They aren’t just making a little bit more, the coaches getting paid the highest take home an average of $554,996 more than the university’s chief executive. That is more than double the president’s salary at the typical university. There is a caveat however. The coaches salaries are paid in part by athletic foundations, meaning it’s the alumni base and not the tax base that is supporting them. But as public support for universities decline, salaries for some presidents of the universities are also having their salaries paid in part by private university foundations. Of the 154 public college employees who crossed the threshold of $1 million, 70 percent were coaches and 20 percent were doctors.
The botched execution that occurred last month was declared by President Obama to be “deeply disturbing.” Obama has now directed the attorney general to review how the death penalty is applied at a time when it has become increasingly debated. The botched execution left the prisoner suffering in pain after sedatives were not fully delivered. The Justice Department outlined a relatively narrow review focusing on how executions are carried out rather than assessing the entire system. While half a dozen states have abolished capital punishment over the last seven years, others have imposed moratoriums or are exploring legislation to repeal it. There is still 60 percent of the American population that still supports the death penalty of those convicted of murder.
Source: The Chronicle
Source: The New York Times
Global
ASCC Candidates’ Forum The ASCC Candidates’ Forum will take place May 28 in the Campus Center Mall at 1 p.m.
Frustration continues with Nigeria’s response to kidnapped girls
India’s president appoints new prime minister
ASCC Elections
As American military and intelligence specialists joined the hunt for Nigeria’s missing school girls, U.S. officials are becoming increasingly frustrated with the country’s inability to act on new intelligence about Boko Haram extremists who took more than 200 girls and threatened to sell them into slavery. U.S. Defense officials believe militants with Boko Haram, a militant Islamic sect, split the girls into several groups. Parents of the abducted girls have complained that they reported the location of the militants and the girls days after the kidnapping but that security forces did not respond. In addition to U.S. drones and satellite coverage, the British government has pledged to send a surveillance aircraft. China, France and Israel have also offered to share intelligence and satellite imagery, officials said.
India’s president appointed Narendra Modi as the new prime minister of the world’s largest democracy, the presidential palace said in a statement. Modi succeeds Manmohan Singh, whose Congress party suffered it’s worst defeat in the recent general elections. In a traditional gesture of supplication to what Indians call their temple of democracy, he bowed down on the first step of the building’s entry stairs. After officially being named leader of his Bharatiya Janata Party’s parliamentary group, Modi made a speech in Hindi. Modi vowed to increase efforts to eradicate poverty, create employment opportunities for the country’s young workers and provide a safer work environment for women. The BJP has swept the five-phase national elections that concluded on may 12, winning 282 of the 543 seats of the parliament’s lower house on its own in what has been a historic mandate for any single party through decades in India.
The Associated Students of Citrus College elections will take place June 4 and 5 in the Campus Center from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Memorial Day No school May 26
EDITOR’S NOTE
Incident reports encompassing the last two weeks were not made available to the Clarion staff by press time.
Source: Los Angeles Times
Source: CNN
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financial aid site available - Financial Aid, from pg. 1
Transfer website, which was developed to make it easier for students to transfer. Users can also connect with a California community college financial aid advisor via phone, email or through setting up a one-on-one appointment to get help with financial aid forms, locating financial aid events and accessing information about the California Dream Act. The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation with 112 colleges serving 2.1 million students per year. The California Community Colleges “I Can Afford College” campaign got its start back in April 2004, shortly after the state legislature increased system enrollment fees from $18 to $26 per unit, and is funded with Proposition 98 funds. Since the campaign launched, more than 2.5 million people have visited the icanaffordcollege. com website and the number of community college students receiving some type of financial aid has increased by 68 percent, Dorr said. Approximately 485,000 California community college students received Pell Grants totaling nearly $1.6 million and more than 1.1 million students received a BOG Fee Waiver, totaling more than $751 million for the 2012-2013 academic year, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The sites re-launch arrived just in time for April, which was Financial Aid Awareness Month. Citrus College held a Financial Aid Literacy Awareness Fair on April 10. The Financial Aid Department partnered with other college departments and community organizations to increase awareness of financial aid programs and services. More than 500 students participated in the fair, said Carol Thomas, Citrus College direc-
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tor of financial aid. “An overwhelming majority stated they found the fair useful, well organized, and indicated the - Scorecard, from pg. 1 fair increased their awareness of financial aid,” Thomas said. “Students indicated they would like to see even more information, more vendors, increased advertisement, and for us to keep doPercentage of degree and/or transfer-seeking students tracked for six years through ing it again and again, they really enjoyed it.” 2012-2013 who enrolled in the first three consecutive terms. Despite increased awareness many students still fail to take advantage of the multitude of financial aid resources available to them. The icanaffordcollege.com website features a step-by-step guide to finding and securing the right kinds of aid to fund individuals community college experience. The five step guide covers eligibility; application preparation; apply now, which assists with FAFSA, Cal Grant, Chafee Grant, the Dream Act and BOG Fee Waiver; get help, which helps locate workshops; and what’s next, which tells students what to expect after applying. The CCCCO hopes the site will help educate current and prospective students about the yearround availability of financial aid to help pay for fees, books, supplies and in some cases even rent. For more information visit the icanaffordcollege.com website. For those students who do not have Internet access there is a toll free phone number – 1-800-987-ICAN (4226) – that directly Percentage of degree and/or transfer-seeking students tracked for six years through connects students with their local community 2012-2013 who enrolled in the first three consecutive terms. college financial aid office. Students can also get updates, deadline reminders, news and more by connecting with the “I Can Afford College” campaign on Facebook and Twitter - www.facebook.com/icanaffordcollege and @icanafrdcollege.
ASCC Election - from pg. 1
Vice President Alejandra Morales and President Tyler Hernandez.
to ensure they are qualified to represent the student body. The vetting process requires the student have active enrollment at Citrus College and be a paid member of the ASCC and also have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. “It does take a lot of time and commitment,” Thompson said. “Students who may be struggling academically might want to rethink their priorities. While want to have students from all sections of campus represented . . . I don’t think a student should sabotage their academic career to be involved in student government,” Thompson said. The current president of ASCC, Tyler Hernandez, added campaign advice. “When you are going through the campaigning phase, make sure you are clearly detailing why you want students to vote for you. Make sure you are actually telling the students you want to have change . . . and that you have a clear goal [and
Evan Solano Clarion
know] what it is you are getting into,” Hernandez said. According to the changes made to the ASCC Constitution in March during the special election, each member of the executive board must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and must also be enrolled in a minimum of six units during the semester. Also, to run for president, vice president, senator positions or legislative liaison, candidates must have served on student government for a minimum of one semester prior in order to be eligible. The candidates who meet the requirements will participate in a Candidate’s Forum in the Campus Center Mall on May 28. The election will take place June 4 and 5. Each candidate will need a minimum of 50 votes to be elected. If multiple candidates for one position obtain 50 or more votes, it will be the majority vote holder who wins.
shows that students with sustained enrollment are more likely to succeed,” said Lan Hao, Ph.D., director of institutional research. Citrus trails the state average by 0.4 percent in 30 units with an average of 66.1 percent. “Credit accumulation, 30 units specifically, tends to be positively correlated with completion and wage gain,” Hao said. However, the numbers are revealing something different. The completion rate for Citrus is far below Citrus’ 30 units and Persistence percentages by almost 20 percent or more. This is the case for the statewide average as well as other community colleges such as Mt. San Antonio College, Pasadena City College and Chaffey College. “The students are different, what their differences are not reflected, and they may not be accurately reflected. So I think there are a lot of variables,” said
Mariana Vega, former student trustee. “I don’t think it’s fair to point out one thing, given that it is a scorecard that reflects such a broad population.” “In looking at our unique variables we also see that we have unique opportunities, so that two percent increase can be grown from that starting point,” said Steven Bluitt-Flowers, former legislative liaison of the Associated Students of Citrus College. With a completion rate of less than 50 percent for the state in the last two years, the college of completion initiative may have a hand in helping raise the percentages. Citrus pledged to be a part of the Community College Completion Corps (C4) in 2012. Supplemental instruction programs, the Writing Cafe and Early Alert/College Success Workshops give students a higher chance of passing classes. The addition of a waitlist for
registration in fall 2012 improved students’ ability to register for classes while still using the priority registration process. “This innovation improved course access for both new and continuing students and will decrease time-to-degree, thus increasing completion rates,” Perri said. Continuing efforts to improve completion rates, Citrus is planning to open the Institute for Completion (IFC). “The intent of the IFC is to identify gaps through research, implement proven completion strategies, secure external funding to support college completion, and to support professional development. I do believe it will contribute to increasing the college’s student completion outcomes,” Perri said. “I think it’s a great start to find out our opportunities and weaknesses. To find out where our weaknesses are and how we can turn them into opportunities for the college and for the students,” Vega said.
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Astronomy professor David Kary, Ph.D. carefully listens as one of his students speaks during his honors Planetary Astronomy class. Students in the class are challenged with engaging lesson plans and coursework developed by Kary in the effort to promote critical-thinking and problem solving proficiency.
Astronomy professor wins award By Cameron Wisdom Staff Writer • cwisdom@ccclarion.com
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he Distinguished Faculty Award recipient for 2014 is David Kary, Ph. D., professor of astronomy. The Faculty Learning Institute annually recognizes a member of the Citrus College faculty who has been nominated by their peers. The criteria considered by the committee for each nominee include service to students, contribution to his/her field and contribution to Citrus College. A faculty member since 1999, Kary has been deeply involved in various efforts to improve the quality and standards of education offered at Citrus. Kary is a former chair of the Curriculum Committee. During his tenure, he oversaw the implementation and transition to CurricUNET, a software program designed to organize and manage curricula. Kary also assisted the Curriculum Committee in developing the Associate Degree for Transfer curricula, a recent major success for the college. “We are way ahead of most other colleges in the state in terms of getting these degrees developed and getting them approved,” Kary said. “We did a lot of work to get those degrees put together in divisions all across campus.” Kary believes the transfer degrees developed during his five and a half years as chair of the Curriculum Committee offer students a considerable advantage when applying to CSU campuses. The curricula were designed so that transfer students would not have to repeat classes once they reach the fouryear level. In the field of astronomy, Kary has played a major role in redesigning the classes from focusing primarily on memorization of facts to courses that generate student engagement. In Kary’s classroom, students can be found working closely with the professor and with each other on lesson plans that encourage them to be thoughtful and creative. The students are often put into groups and instructed to create a plan to present to the other groups on how to adapt to a given theoretical or real-
world situation relating to astronomy. Charles Fisher, 29, a philosophy major, is enrolled in one of Kary’s honors astronomy courses. “He totally deserves this award,” Fisher said. “I’ve already taken three honors classes, and this class set the standards for what I expected an honors class to be as far as the rigor, the depth of research, and his expectations and standards.” Even with Kary’s high expectations for his students, his lessons are more challenging than they are intimidating, Fisher said. Denise Kaisler, Ph.D, professor of astronomy, has been working with Kary since 2004. During those 10 years as the only two full-time astronomy professors at Citrus College, Kaisler has worked with Kary to develop learning programs that benefit their students. “I’m actually really happy to follow his lead and learn from what he’s doing,” Kaisler said. “One thing Dave and I are really on the same page about is student-centered learning… we want the students to discuss with each other, to do work, and to give presentations all inside the classroom.” “In astronomy and a lot of the other sciences here [at Citrus] we have really moved ahead to where we require students to do some critical thinking and be to able to apply their ideas to things they may not have thought of before,” Kary said. Kary is known on campus for his diligent efforts to help students and faculty alike better understand certain aspects of the curriculum they might be working on. “He’s really generous with his time. So if somebody doesn’t understand something, whether it’s a student or another faculty member, he will patiently sit with them and explain to them in a way to help them better understand the topic,” Kaisler said. Kary is a positive, humble and dedicated teacher who consistently finds ways to make Citrus a better place to receive an education, Kaisler said. Kary is recognizable for his Indiana Jones-like attire, especially his hat that looks vaguely similar to the one worn by the iconic professor from the Hollywood movie series. Kary grew up in Vancouver, Canada. In the third grade he learned about the
solar system and became fascinated with the subject. As an undergraduate he studied at the University of British Columbia, and received his Ph. D. in astronomy from Stony Brook University in New York. “Until I was well into college, I don’t think I really knew what an astronomer’s job really was as far as the career options go,” Kary said. “It’s pretty common for astronomers to teach unless you are involved with a major lab.” After graduating from the doctoral program at Stony Brook in 1993, Kary began to conduct research on planetary mechanics. He also ran the Gladwin Planetarium in Santa Barbara before finally landing at Citrus 15 years ago. “During that time [at the planetarium] we were doing lots of shows and community events and it was a lot of fun,” Kary said. Kary enjoys tending to his garden full of plant species native to California. He decided to start the garden with his family to reduce the amount of water they use, a decision that reflects his environmentally conscious perspective. Kary has recently developed an interest in astronomy-related music and often plays some for his students before class. “Sometimes it even ties into the lesson plan for that day,” Kary said with a proud smile. He enjoys photography, and takes a great number of photos of his travels. He once planned a trip to take a cruise in the South Pacific to view a solar eclipse in the middle of the ocean. Kary has spent his time at Citrus College not only shaping eager minds but also helping the campus and community grow and adapt to an evolving digital age. His persistence and relentless diligence in the art of teaching has benefitted thousands of students along the way. His selection as the Distinguished Faculty Award recipient will be announced at the June 14 graduation ceremony, and his photo and biography will be printed in the commencement program. Kary will receive a plaque and his portrait and nameplate will be on permanent display in the Hayden Memorial Library.
Jan Daley:
Where There’s hope A Tribute to the Love songs from Bob hope’s Legacy Sunday May
25
at 2PM
Tickets: $32 Student/Senior: $30 Citrus Fine And Performing Arts Department presents
Spring MuSic concert Saturday, May 31, 2014 at 8pM Tickets: $5
Citrus Dance Department presents
Motion!
thursday, June 5, 2014 at 8pM Friday, June 6, 2014 at 8pM Tickets: $5
Citrus Women’s Ensemble presents
girlS Aloud!
June 6 & 7, 2014 at 8pM June 7 & 8, 2014 at 2pM
Tickets: $12 Student/Senior $10 Citrus Little Theatre Citrus Music Department presents
BAttle oF the pop rock BAndS
tuesday, June 10, 2014 at 8pM pre-show starts at 7:30pM Tickets: $7 presale
$10 at the door
1000 W. Foothill Blvd. • glendora, cA 91741 Box office open: Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 4 pm and One Hour Prior To All Shows
tickets: (626) 963-9411
www.haughpac.com
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Campus newspaper website wins at state By Cameron Wisdom Staff Writer • cwisdom@ccclarion.com
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ver the weekend of April 3-5, a group of Citrus journalism students involved in producing the Clarion attended a statewide community college journalism convention and brought home several awards. The annual state convention sponsored by the Journalism Association of Community Colleges was held at the Burbank Marriott. More than 500 students and faculty from community colleges across the state participated in a variety of bring-in and on-the-spot competitions that pertained to key aspects of journalism. Editor-in-Chief Evan Solano secured a meritorious award for a live tweeting competition that took place during a tour of the Autry Museum in Los Angeles. Participants were instructed to document their experience on the tour through their Twitter accounts to be judged by a committee upon completion of the competition. Staff member Joe Moreno took home 2nd place for the on-the-spot sports game writing competition. The competition required participants to attend a women’s water polo match between Occidental College and Whittier College, and write a game recap within an hour. “I feel like the experience translated into a real world environment, because I only had one hour to write the sports story and make corrections for the competition.” Moreno said. “It was [set up] like a real newsroom environment, but it was actually fun working under that deadline pressure.” Moreno also won a meritorious award for on-the-spot video journalism along with Anne Marie Miranda and Devanie Davis. Katie Jolgren received an honorable mention for her work in a broadcast news writing competition. The Clarion fell short in its annual bid to be recognized for Newspaper General Excellence, but managed to come away with an award in the same category for its online edition. “There’s a lot of things that go into winning General Excellence,” Solano said. “It goes beyond the quality of the news stories in every issue. It’s also the
Clarion staff photo
Clarion staff from left to right: Justin Williams, Sylvia Aparicio, Dillon Cooper, Eric Burger, Jessica Soto, Joe Moreno, Devanie Davis, Katie Jolgren, Anne Marie Miranda, Evan Solano and Fannya Cordova at the Journalism Association of Community Colleges award ceremony.
look and design, the overall structure of the paper.” Solano also noted that aiming for recognition in General Excellence required extensive studying and research to understand what the judges look for and applying the findings to implement strategies that play off the strengths of the staff. Students were encouraged to attend workshops led by industry professionals during the convention. These were geared towards improving their understanding of various topics and styles such as sports writing, news reporting and social media, and the connections between public relations and journalism. “It was a privilege to hear professionals that have been exactly where I’ve been,” said Dillon Cooper, managing editor of the Clarion. “They went through the same journey that I went through and to see them succeed, it’s inspiring.” The Clarion team said that they enjoyed the experience of meeting likeminded students from all over the state, and building connections while competing with potential future colleagues. “It’s a great opportunity to network with other students from colleges in
the area, and to share our experiences to see what we are doing differently that might help us improve our own work,” Solano said. Prospective students interested in the communications and journalism programs offered at Citrus can begin to start their journey during the summer session by enrolling in Comm 101 (Reporting and Writing News). The course is an introductory overview of the basics of writing news stories along with discussions pertaining to the responsibilities that journalists have to their communities and readers. Students do not have to be majoring in communications or journalism to participate in the program, and can anticipate the added value that being involved in student publications will bring to their resumes when applying for transfer to preferred colleges and universities. “We want to build from this experience and keep improving on the progress we have made this semester, and we are always looking to add highlymotivated people to our staff,” Solano said. “The better we are as a team, the more likely we are to receive recognition going forward.”
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Teenager runs for state senate position By Fannya Cordova Staff Writer • fcordova@ccclarion.com
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hile the typical college student is preoccupied with academics and extracurricular activities, Marc Rodriguez, an 18-year-old student from Mt. San Antonio College is not only handling school but also running for political office. Rodriguez, a public relations student, is the only Republican candidate for the California state Senate seat from District 22. His main motivation is, “to give people more than one choice, and offer a new kind of leadership,” he said. Rodriguez’s interest in civic life comes from his concern for politicians, he said, who are not doing a good job at representing the average citizen. “Certain people say they dislike how the government is, but we need to stand up and change it,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez says his love for debating is what made him follow politics while in high school. For Rodriguez being involved in politics and voting is very important. He says his first time registering to vote was on his eighteenth birthday. “I wanted to make sure that I was registered to vote. People fought and died for the right to vote,” Rodriguez said. “We should at least spend a little time to register.” Even though Rodriguez has a great passion for politics and is excited to run for office, his least favorite thing when running a campaign is raising money. “It’s hard raising money; because I’m young people think I’m not going to win,” Rodriguez said. Currently, Rodriguez’s only monetary source for his campaign comes from his family and friends. One of the people who has greatly influence Rodriguez’s political views is former U.S representative Ron Paul. “Ron Paul played an important role in my life, he sticks to his positions, even when others say they are wrong . . . he tells us what we need to hear and not what want to hear,” Rodriguez said. Although Rodriguez’s family are Democrats, he says they have greatly influenced his political views. “My family has influenced me by giving me somewhere to debate,” Rodriguez said. Rodriguez is running on the Republican ticket he said he wants voters to see him as someone who is representing all citizens and not just one party. “I want people not to see me as Re-
publican, Libertarian or Tea Partier I want people to see me for my message,” Rodriguez said. “We need to have politicians that stand up for their principles and not their party and are willing to go against their party.” Ana Mendoza, a close friend of Rodriguez, feels inspired by his decision to run for the California State Senate. “He inspires me because this is something that has always interested him, now that he is going for it, now I think I can do it too,” Mendoza said. Mike Gomez, Rodriguez’s high school English teacher, says he has a great future in politics. “I’m proud that he is willing to get out there and discuss important issues, he’s shown me that there are young people that are interested in politics,” Gomez said. Rodriguez’s mother, Martha Rodriguez, said she feels proud and inspired by her son. “He is a young man with an old soul . . . he is a go getter who is not afraid to take on challenges,” she said. The issues he said that concerns him the most are jobs and education. “We need a senator that will be fighting for good jobs . . . not just minimum wage jobs,” Rodriguez said. Rodriguez stands against affirmative action and believes California needs educational reform. “If we want our colleges to be diverse we don’t work at the college level we work at the local level by giving them better access to education,” Rodriguez said. If elected Rodriguez says he plans to present a bill that would reduce the
Wednesday, may 21, 2014
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Courtesy of Marc Rodriguez
Marc Rodriguez, pictured above, is an 18-year old Mt. San Antonio College student who is running as a write-in candidate for state Senate. Rodriguez gave a stump speech for “America Day” at Citrus College on May 1.
salary of state senators to the average wage of the district. Whether he wins or not, Rodriguez plans to stay in college and finish his education. He has not ruled out running again but he says he will remain active in his community. “I still plan to fight for what I believe in,” he said.
Rodriguez encourages other college students to vote in the California primary June 3 and highlights the importance to get involve with politics. “Our generation thinks our vote does not matter, but I’m here to say, yes we do matter. This is why I’m running to inspire other people,” Rodriguez said.
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Baseball: Joe DeFazio -- Cal State East Bay Matt Reynoso -- Cal Poly, Pomona Nathan Virgen -- Lindsey Wilson Victor Garcia Lindsey Wilson Michael Bradley -- University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Dani Schlarmann -- Cal State San Bernardino Brandon Castataneda -- Colorado State Pueblo Jonathon Reynoso -- West Texas A&M
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Wednesday, may 21, 2014
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OWLS FLYING AWAY WITH SCHOLARSHIPS
Football: Herman Akins -- Texas A&M Commerce Braxton Brown -- Florida A&M Charles Flowers -- North Dakota State Blake Luevano -- Tennessee Tech Byron Smith -- Southeastern Louisiana University Vincent Gardella -- Missouri Southern State University Joseph Henderson -- Missouri Southern State University Kenyatta Johnson -- Harding University Christian Licciardi -- Adams State University Joshua Lowden -- Seton Hill University Philip Romano -- Northwestern Oklahoma Ryan Solomo -- Missouri Southern State University Women’s Basketball: Jasmin Longtin -- Biola University Jaelyn Wilson -- University of California, Riverside Olivia Montgomery -- University of California, Irvine Men’s Basketball: Chris Reyes -- University of Utah Women’s Soccer: Kacie Licata -- Colorado State Pueblo Chelsie Kent -- University of La Verne Volleyball: Kimberly Nevarez -- University of Redlands Wome’s Water Polo: Lora Marquez Salgado -- University of La Verne Kendra New -- University of La Verne Joe Moreno Clarion
Owls baseball comes to an end on a promising note
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who was unanimously named to the WSC 1st team, appeared in 17 games and started six of them. Patton posted a 5-4 record on the season with an ERA of 2.07, striking out 62 batters in the process. The Owls went on
Nicholas Sergi tossed in 18 games for the Owls this season going 5-1 in the process. Sergi struck out 38 batters this season and has an ERA of 1.99.
Joe Moreno Clarion
three of which were hit by freshman outfielder By Dillon Cooper Taylor Grace. Managing Editor • dcooper@ccclarion.com Grace, who made the WSC 1st team, had a solid freshman campaign, wls’ freshmen stepped up hitting .336, having an this season in the baseball on-base percentteam’s push for a playoff age of .380, berth, but they ended the season with 23 coming up short. RBIs For the first time since 2010, the Citrus College baseball team finished and 11 stolen above .500. The Owls completed the bases. season with a 20-16, 13-8 record. He Although the Owls improved on their 14-21, 8-16 from last season, they only struck out 14 times in 134 finished fourth in the Western State at-bats. South Conference. On the mound, freshLA Mission won the conference title men Nicholas Sergi with a 16-5 record throughout the and Sean Patton were conference. Home-field advantage did not apply a revelation for the Owls. to the 2014 Owls, as they finished Sergi tossed 68 with a 9-9 record at home and a 11-7 innings over 18 record away from Citrus College. Pitching was a key factor in the Owls’ games, striking out 35 batters improvement this season. The team had a combined ERA of 3.01 and had while allowing only one home run. Sergi opposing batters hitting just .247. had a team-best 1.99 At the plate, the Owls averaged just ERA and posted a 5-1 over five runs a game and the Owls record. hitters hit .281 on the year with a Patton, combined total of just five home runs,
a seven-game winning streak in the middle of the season, starting at West LA with a 12-4 victory on March 20. During the streak, the Owls would outscore their opponents 53-18. Their streak would come to an end April 5 with a 9-6 extra inning loss to Antelope Valley. The Owls had several players sign scholarships to continue their playing careers at the four-year level. Outfielder Nathan Virgen and pitcher Vic-
tor Garcia will be playing for Lindsey Wilson. Sophomore Michael Bradley will be heading to the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff. In total, the Owls will have eight players moving on with scholarships. The Owls will look to build on the momentum generated on the diamond this season and will head into next spring hoping to win their first conference title since 2011.
A&E
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Wednesday, May 21, 2014
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Anne Marie Miranda Clarion
Murder Most Foul, left to right, Yuri Oatis, Raiden Ikeda, Joe Moller, Miguel Camarenas and Don Peña. The band is comprised entriely of students in Introduction to Ensemble Performance, otherwise known as “Dude Rock.”
from dude rock to death metal By Evan Solano Editor-in-Chief • esolano@ccclarion.com
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he members of Murder Most Foul didn’t meet in the typical way most bands do. Instead of forming in a garage or studio, they were brought together by guitarist and founding member Don Peña, 33. He is a Citrus College music major who enrolled in Introduction to Ensemble Performance or as the students call it “Dude Rock”. “It was about two years ago that Alan Waddington told me to sit in on the class and see if I liked it. Alan asked me if I wanted to play and a few guys and me just started playing. It gave me an idea of what the class is,” said Peña. “Murder Most Foul was already an idea in my head,” Peña said. “I wanted it to be a progressive metal band. I had an idea to try to find people at school, but I didn’t really think that I could find anyone here with the same style as me.” Eventually Peña would round out the line up with drummer Joey Moller, 21, guitarist Raiden Ikeda, 21, bassist Miguel Camarena, 20 and vocalist Yuri Oates, 25, are all music majors. The class was the brainchild of professor Alan Waddington, “I started teaching the class about 10 years ago. The idea being that the top pop group was super established, we wanted a class that allowed people to work their way up and some alternative concepts,” Waddington said. “It started to turn into this thing within a few years, it was more of ‘dude thinking.’ The reason the class got its name is that we had a lot of guys that started to join the class that fit the definition of dude and be involved and passionate about the class.” Singer Yuri Oatis, who goes by the
stage name Pariah Roulette, got involved with “Dude Rock” in its initial phase. “I was here the first experimental semester that Alan decided to launch the class. It was broken down. There were only about 13 of us, the class had no structure, no theory. Alan was still trying to figure out the class.” Since then, Waddington has developed “Dude Rock” into what it is today, a class that teaches the fundamentals of performing in a band. “The whole point of this semester has been about rhythm, how a rhythm section functions.” Waddington said. According to guitarist Raiden Ikeda, the freedom to perform music that isn’t Top 40 or jazz is the main reason he decided to take the class, “Here, we get to do what we want, act how we want on stage and all the critiques are mostly suggestions about how to go about our performance.” Ikeda said. “The way Alan teaches the class, it doesn’t feel like you’re being demanded to do anything.” Oatis explains how the class is not only about performance techniques and theory, but its also about expression through more aggressive music. “Pop rock teaches you how to master your craft and master like a million songs in like a week and then go out there and play. This class is for the kids who wont tuck their shirts in,” Oatis said “This is for the kids that are loud, proud and rowdy but if you ask us a question, we’ll be able to give you an intelligent answer. We’re smart. We just like to have fun. I think this class is exactly what this music department needs.” Murder Most Foul have played a handful of shows around Southern California but are getting ready for one of the most important shows they have
played, the inaugural “Dudestock” at the end of the semester. Unlike the pop/rock bands who host their annual “Battle of the Pop/Rock bands” competition at the end of the year, and the Citrus Singers, who have an end of the year performance, Dude Rock has never had the opportunity to host their own concert, till now. The concert will take place in the Student Center on June 4 and feature 13 bands, all from the Dude Rock class and will have Murder Most Foul as the headlining act. According to drummer Joey Moller, the concert is an opportunity to not only show the rest of the performing arts ensembles what the class is about, but also for many students, it’ll be their first time performing in front of a crowd. “There’s no better way to get better at doing a performance other than performing, you have to go up there and screw up and make mistakes before you can look good,” Moller said. The free concert is a bittersweet occasion for the bands, because it will also mark the end of Waddington’s involvement with Dude Rock. According to Waddington he cannot teach as an official teacher of record because the administration would have to pay time and a half which is not only expensive to the school but also the adjunct teachers union. “It’s not a crazy notion, I understand it,” Waddington said. “They brought me in and explained it to me. I’ll be on campus helping other classes, but I can’t have the title of an official teacher of record.” For Oatis, the prospect of life in Dude Rock without Alan is both exciting as it is nerve-wracking, “Its going to be different and I think its going to be a challenge for those who stick around,” he said “I don’t mind the change as long as
Anne Marie Miranda Clarion
Don Peña, guitarist and founding member of Murder Most Foul practices with the band in PA 159. Peña also came up with the concept for the end of the year “Dudestock” concert on June 4.
the ethic of the class doesn’t change. The professor can change ten thousand times.” Moller will wait to see how the class looks like before enrolling again, but admits that Waddington, who is a fellow drummer himself, has been a big influence on his technique. “He’s turned me around from a high school drummer to someone who really works hard and has a chance at being a professional,” Moller said “My first couple years here, I was kind of a lazy bum and [Alan] would chew me about it. I really started working and I can honestly say I wouldn’t be where I am, with this band, playing wise, any of the things I’ve done, without Alan.” He said “He’s been a life changer in a musical sense.” Ikeda is also considering what next year will bring for the class, but will more than likely be returning in the fall “Its so much fun I might not know how to stop,” he joked. For Peña, this class and Professor
Waddington have a special place in his band’s history, “Murder Most Foul was born in this class. Literally, this is where I found the members,” he said. “It’s not dude rock without Alan.” Ikeda agrees with his guitarist’s sentiments, “I feel like the environment created in this class, a lot of it comes from Alan’s personality and the unique way he teaches. He wants to let people do what they want to but show them how to be entertaining and successful and become better performers.” Ikeda is looking forward to Dudestock not only for the performing aspect but also as a way to show other students what the class that Waddington has nurtured, is all about “I’m hoping that a lot of people will show up and that it will get a lot of exposure for the band. Its a great sort of send off for Alan,” he said. “I feel like originally the idea just came out for fun. But we can show that this is a serious class and that we’re doing serious work in here.”
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Wednesday, May 21, 2014
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Yes on Prop 41 and 42 Editor-in-Chief Evan Solano
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ropositions 41 and 42 will be on the ballot in the June 3 California Primary Election. Vote yes for both. Prop. 41, Veterans Housing and Homeless Prevention Bond Act of 2014, would authorize $600 million in general obligation bonds for affordable housing to relieve homelessness for veterans and their families, as well as fund programs dedicated to aid veterans with physical and mental health care, counseling for drug and alcohol abuse and job training. Those opposing the bill are concerned that the money will fall into corrupt hands and not be used for its intended purpose. However, the proposition also requires annual evaluation of the effectiveness of the programs, thus allowing the people to be constant watchdogs over the way this bond money is being spent. Passing this proposition will not raise taxes or add to California’s debt because the $600 million are previously approved, unspent funds. In January 2013, there were 15,000 homeless veterans out of 137,000 homeless Californians, according to a federal government survey.
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The study also showed that California veterans are more likely to be homeless than non-veterans, making California home to more than onequarter of all homeless veterans in the United States. This number is appalling and with close to 45,000 more veterans returning soon to California, the best way to help resolve the problem is by voting yes on Prop. 41. Ten years ago, Proposition 59 already made access to open records a civil
right under the state constitution. However, Prop. 42 will amend the Constitution of California to require local - not state - government agencies such as cities, counties and school districts to fund the agendas of local government bodies, as well as records of the government officials. It will also ensure the right that allows any person to obtain copies of the meetings’ agendas, allowing the people to know what the government is doing and how they are doing it.
Passing this proposition will eliminate local agencies’ argument that providing this information is too expensive and therefore deny a person’s request for information. Transparency in government is essential for a true democracy and this starts by keeping government meetings and records open to the public. Both propositions were unanimously passed by the Senate and Assembly and now it is up to us to make them law.
Empowering women into taking STEM classes By Fannya Cordova Staff Writer • fcordova@ccclarion.com
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mong college students, men greatly outnumber women in science, technology, engineering and mathematical careers. I came to this sad realization when I noticed my math class was made up of mostly men and only one-quarter was female. As I dug deeper, I found that the lack of STEM female students was not just happening in my classroom but it had become a national issue. Even though more women graduate from college than men, women hold less than 25 percent of STEM jobs, according to the Department of Commerce. Although this recent study is discouraging, it has not only given me more reason to pursue a STEM career but also to motivate other female students as well. More women need to get involved in STEM careers. Not just to foster diversity and an open science community but because our country is in great need of scientists, engineers, programmers and mathematicians. There are many intimidating factors that discourage women from joining STEM fields. These false perceptions keep potential students from taking on a STEM career. You do not have to be the best and brightest to be a STEM student and you do not have to be ‘naturally’ talented in order to be successful or competitive in STEM fields. Just like in any other career, you have to work hard, and sometimes fail but
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that is just part of any learning process. Gender stereotypes such as false assumptions of women and men belonging in certain areas of study, should not influence our life choices or impact our confidence. In fact I was one of the many students who thought math was boring and intimidating. However, once I recognized the valuable use mathematics has on economics, I fell in love with numbers. Do not be afraid to challenge yourself from taking STEM courses such as higher-level math and science classes. After all, science and technology are part of our everyday life and we have the opportunity to make contributions
that will ultimately shape the future. Even if you are a social science major, you have plenty of opportunities to also be a STEM student. You can choose to double major or minor in a STEM field. Becoming a STEM student opens the doors to careers that pay higher wages, have a lower unemployment rate, provide more benefits and are more secure Currently Citrus College offers programs that aim to encourage more women to join STEM careers such as Women for Mathematics. This program forms a community of women interested in math, where they encourage and support each other. The Encourage and Engage Women
in Engineering program is designed to increase the number of women engineers by providing guidance, support and activities that inspire women to pursue an engineering career. Although women role models in STEM fields are scarce and it may discourage women from attempting a STEM career, we can make a difference. We can become those leaders and role models for future generations of girls. While I have met the most talented and brightest men and women in the STEM community I would love to see and meet more women who share the same passions as I do.
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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Wednesday, May 21, 2014
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Jessica Soto Clarion
The third-year Citrus Singers stepped to the front of the stage to take their bows before performing their emotional final song, “Thank You For The Music,” accompanied by director Doug Austin on piano.
singers debut broadway By Jessica Soto News Editor • jsoto@ccclarion.com
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t was a show that seemed to end too soon. The Citrus Singers performed their first ever “Broadway” inspired concert accompanied by the Citrus College Blue Note Orchestra. From the opening number, “Magic to Do” from “Pippin” to the final song, “Raise You Up” from “Kinky Boots,” the Singers showcased their vast range and capabilities. One of the more memorable moments of the night came as quite a surprise. The audience was thrown for a loop when a little girl appeared on stage, who was clearly not a Citrus Singer. 8-year-old Tessa Barkley soloed “When I Grow Up” from the musical “Matilda.” Joined by Karyn DeAndrade, Andy May, Timothy Jackson and Delia Trear, this musical number practically forced the inner child of every audience member to come out. More than twenty Singers were whirling around on skateboards, scooters and rollerblades on the stage while Barkley and Trear finished the song hand-in-hand. The men were off to a rough start when Max Droegemueller, Andrew Limon and Edward Little took the stage to perform, “Not My Father’s Son.” Limon seemed to carry the trio to the end while Little and Droegemueller sounded like they were playing catch up, at one point even beginning a verse at completely separate times.
Micah Tangermann opened “Oklahoma,” loud and proud making it look fun and effortless to dance and solo center-stage. Tangermann soloed two more times and each time seemed better than the last. Quincey Hinton was more than just a Citrus Singer; he showcased his talents as an awe-inspiring dancer while solo dancing to “Novacain,” sung by Zach Bondoc. Hinton achieved flawless form while performing barrel roll jumps, back flips and aerial cartwheels along with contemporary dance styles. The “Dogfight” Medley opened with five Singers portraying the roles of Vietnam-bound soldiers in the 1960s who are out for one last night of fun and games. When Eddie, Robbie Johnson, meets Rose, Brittany Tangermann, the rules change. Tangermann was one of the stand-out women Singers of the night. Her voice was captivating and the chemistry between her and Johnson was phenomenal. Their duet was passionate and their harmonies were beautiful. “The Will Rogers Follies” launched with Andy May singing the part of the ultimate cowboy performer Will Rogers. The female Singers graced the spotlight in red and blue skintight suits that were slightly revealing and vibrantly colored. The girls performed a hand jive with May singing joyfully in the middle, later turning it into what could only be compared to a sitting can-can girl performance with legs high-kicking in perfect unison. Opening the second act was a tap dancing number that was brilliantly timed and showed there really was “No Business Like Show Business” for these singers. Garrett Smith proved himself to be quite the theatrical character
Jessica Soto Clarion
Delia Trear duets with 8 year old Tessa Barkley singing, “When I Grow Up” from the musical “Matilda.”
while singing “Cabaret.” Speaking in a foreign language is hard enough, but for Smith singing in French and German didn’t seem like much of a challenge. Smith showed more of his raw talent when he sang a duet with Madison Lefebvre titled a “Song That Goes Like This” from “Spamalot.” From the moment the song began Smith and Lefebvre had the audience laughing with their parody of “Camelot.” The comedic aspect of this song was a pleasant break from the other classical Broadway tunes. Garrett Holder was also one of the stand-out males of the evening with a voice that was bold and unique. His solo from the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel” was seemingly unbeatable until his duet with Joshua Tangermann. Holder and Tangermann performed “Lily’s Eyes”with a passion that was unlike any other during the performance. There harmony was breathtaking and their pairing couldn’t have been better. Tangermann later opened “One Day More” from “Les Miserables” and along with Brandon Jenkins, Taylor Barbata, Audrey Nieves and Jeremiah Calhoun the beauty of the song had an impact that was unforgettable. The final song was sang by the 12 third-year Citrus Singers in their final performance with the group titled, “Thank You For The Music.” Accompanied by director Doug Austin on piano, the third-year singers said their goodbyes in an emotional finale that literally brought tears to my eyes.
Jessica Soto Clarion
Robbie Johnson and Brittany Tangermann, playing characters Eddie and Rose from the musical “Dogfight,” finish their duet at the end of the “Dogfight” Medley hand-in-hand.