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Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2019 Glendale Community College Student Newspaper
Consider
Volume 113 | Issue 1
Behind California’s Housing Shortage
just one of four Los Angeles County residents make enough to purchase a median-priced home in their area, suggesting that incomes have yet to catch up with the drastic spike in housing prices witnessed over the last decade. This doesn’t only pose a threat of economic instability for buyers and renters, but also creates a societal class imbalance. It has meant a significant delay in milestone events for millennials – some of whom end up chasing out-of-state housing opportunities. A general rule advises that no more than 30 percent of one’s monthly gross income should be spent on housing. That 1969 principle stems from the advocacy of Sen. Edward Brooke who called for housing affordability. Today, however, the idea of spending less than a third on housing costs is simply unfeasible. That is certainly true for 75 percent of Angelenos, as they do not earn nearly enough to fall into those less than “one-third” parameters. “Many Americans are [seeing] a theme that involves their income and wealth being expropriated through various channels,” said Richard Kamei, sociology professor at Glendale Community College. “The low pay they receive for their work, high mortgage or rent that they pay [and] the exorbitant interest on their credit card debt,” Kamei elaborated, are stifling middle-class Americans.
a staggering fact:
Leaving La La Land
Unable to decide which California home to buy? A mid-century craftsman or a ranch-style home? For most in L.A., they can’t afford either. However, opportunities are nearly boundless across the midwest and even some parts of the east coast. During the first quarter of 2017, over 19,000 Californians moved out of state to do just this. A large chunk of these migrants settled in cities boasting relatively affordable housing conditions. Las Vegas, Dallas, Austin and Kansas City are just a few regions marked by opportunity. Statistical data suggests that even though wages in Texas are lower than in California, purchasing a home within the Lone Star State remains far more feasible than in California. According to Zillow, the median price for a single-family home in Texas is currently $277,062 — less than half of what a median priced home costs in California, when comparing just prices and not condition or size of the property. This insinuates that a $500,000 price tag can get you a semi-mansion in a San Antonio, but a two bedroom apartment in Glendale. In addition, an average Texas resident earns a yearly income of $68,000. Simple calculations would suggest that a Dallas resident adequately falls within the 30 percent payment rule.
30 percent of Angelenos with $100k salaries now rent — rather than own
esigner
ris Graphic D
s-Mor Tobias Grave
By Marian Sahakyan Editor-in-Chief To put it into perspective, an individual can probably afford to buy a house as a single entity without a need to pool resources, assuming they earn an average income in Texas.
A change in the electoral map
The sheer volume of Californians unable to find housing in their own state has led many to flee its sunny beaches and seek residential opportunities in more affordable areas in the country. As a result, the blue-state diaspora has grown in neighboring states like Colorado, Nevada and Texas — once traditionally known for their
conservative ideologies. Now, these states are shifting toward a different hue: purple. “The gains made by Democrats in Texas at the various governmental levels during the 2018 midterm elections were interesting,” emphasized Kamei. “This is definitely a positive sign for progressives. On the other hand, there are some Americans who are feeling threatened by the rapid changes occurring in their states and the country.” Ultimately, Californians who relocate to other states and cities, causing a shift in migration pattern, do indeed, appear to effect a change in local and national politics. Pot is now decriminalized in Colorado and
Nevada. Just last November, Democratic candidates like Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona and Ben McAdams of Utah, were elected to represent their congressional districts.
To stay and to rent
Neo, an executive member of the Glendale Tenants Union, has lived in different Los Angeles neighborhoods and cities for 25 years, and says that he has seen how the increase of new luxury apartment complexes in neighboring areas, has degraded tenantlandlord relations in more, traditional “momand-pop” style apartment buildings, all across Glendale. [Continued on page 2]
In This Issue News. . . . . . . . . . . 1- 2 Features . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Opinion.. . . . . . . . . 5-7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 7 - 8 Entertainment. . . . . 8
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019
A common change, he said, is the constant “keep-up” game that landlords of small properties try to play with those of larger apartment communities. Seeing the excessively high rent in these luxury apartments, owners of smaller buildings become eager to make higher earnings out of their homes. What ends up happening, is that these property owners, raise the rent so much that one can no longer afford it. Left with no choice, many move out to more affordable areas which are further away from work. According to Neo, once the old tenants are out, the owner does small “surface” renovations, which will then call for a higher rent of 30 to 100 percent more than before. “Glendale Unified School District teachers who can’t afford to live in [the city] are now moving to places like Palmdale to afford a living, but end up having to commute to work,” would make it easier for workers expressed Neo. While it seems to live their American Dream. far-fetched, many teachers are This begs the question of earning far below $60,000 a whether an ordinary millennial year. The California Housing can actually make it alone in the Partnership recently announced city, where ironically “dreams that an individual in come true.” Sure, Los Angeles needs they can make it, “The California to earn at least $33 Housing Partnership but they must hold an hour – almost recently announced positions of a lawyer $69,000 a year – that an individual in ($104,249), or to afford renting Los Angeles needs to perhaps a software in the county. earn at least $33 an engineer ($82,669), Yet the median hour – almost $69,000 or they should at household income least be a marketing a year – to afford here is at an renting in the county.” manager ($66,538). insufficient $54,432 Even in those roles, per household. In individuals may addition, $33 an hour is more be burdened by an additional than double the highest minimum burden: student loan debt. wage proposed by Mayor Eric More common occupations Garcetti. When campaigning for in the city typically pay much the increase, he argued that this below that $33 mark. If you’re
NEWS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Marian Sahakyan SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Hayk Rostomyan PRODUCTION MANAGER James Ojano-Simonsson PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Samuel Reynolds GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tobias Graves-Morris
lucky to hold down the post of an office secretary, you’ll earn a whopping $17 an hour. If you work as a preschool teacher, guess what? You’re in for a treat of a solid $13.68 an hour. None of these numbers actually add up to cover basic needs, especially in a city where the cost of living is 43 percent higher than the national average, data firm payscale.com found.
What now?
What happens to the teachers, secretaries and paramedics of L.A.? They once epitomized the middle class, but that section of society is shrinking and becoming poorer. This middle class cross-section of society has seen a “decrease” that “was often substantial” in the last
COPY EDITOR Yesenia Thomson FEATURES EDITOR Sam Decker OPINION EDITOR Hayk Martirosyan SPORTS EDITOR Michael Dumansky SPORTS REPORTERS Jonathan Vargas Elone Safaryan ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Selena Reyes
PHOTO EDITOR Dylan A. Bryant
ENTERTAINMENT REPORTERS Saryana Nazarian Eduardo Carreno
WEB EDITOR Alin Pasokhian
LIFESTYLE EDITOR Kylie Shannon
BROADCAST MANAGER Tyler Greene
Tobias Graves-Morris Graphic Designer
BROADCAST ASSISTANT Jordan Henry
STAFF
ILLUSTRATOR Matthew Spencer
three years, according to a Pew Research Center report. Some of those numbers have stabilized in the last year, but there is no denying that the middle class is losing ground, two different Pew Research Center studies showed. A study from the Census Bureau earlier this year suggested that millennials are earning more than ever before, promoting many headlines that appeared to cheer the apparent end of financial hardship for this cohort of Americans. However, a New York Times report noted that the gains were “driven by increased employment, rather than increased pay.” In fact, the Times piece pointed to data in the Census survey which found that “both male and female full-time workers actually declined last
STAFF WRITERS Allazhar Duisenbek Jake Denne Gabby Duga Afroditi Kontos Tatiana Pak Lilit Sedrakyan STAFF REPORTER Paul Kim
www.elvaq.com year, but that drop was offset in the national data by the increase in the number of people with jobs.” In addition to that, collegeloan debt balances in the country have jumped to an all-time high of $1.4 trillion, according to a recent report by Experian. “We have seen a tuition at the UC’s CSU’s and California Community Colleges increase by about 400 percent,” noted Kamei. “Even in the time that I have been teaching at GCC, I have seen the cost go from $11 [per] unit in 2001, to hitting $46 in 2012.” This very fact has taken a big toll on the mental health of those in debt – possibly made worse by the fact that millennials are also contending with a tough job market, which has yet to see much of a gain. Moreover, payscale.com data suggests that despite being “overconfident,” only 37 percent of millennials have actually asked for a raise. Just 43 percent of those who asked received the pay increase they wanted. It is presumed that the ultimate cause of this is the fear of jeopardizing or losing one’s position in the case that they simply ask. The competitive market only adds to the anxiety, once again reminding workers of the “easily replaceable” philosophy. “We know from research that financial stress is a major factor in conflicts that occur within the family,” explained Kamei. “I believe that the problem itself is big enough to eventually cause a shift in attitude on society as a whole.” Marian Sahakyan can be reached at manehsahakyan@gmail.com.
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FACULTY ADVISER Rory Cohen rcohen@glendale.edu (818) 240-1000 ext. 5214
Letters to the Editors El Vaquero accepts story ideas in news, features, profiles, sports and entertainment from the public. Send an idea or article to the editor at elvaquero@glendale.edu or call (818) 240-1000, ext. 3211.
Letters may be reproduced in full or in part and represent only the point of view of the writer, not the opinion of El Vaquero or Glendale Community College and its district. All letters must include the full name, address and phone number of the writer. You will be contacted before publication. El Vaquero is a First Amendment publication.
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019 FEATURES
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Academic Reminder: Scholarships GCC applications are due on March 22 By Yesenia Thomson Copy Editor Known as “transfer season,” the spring semester can be a time of great stress for college students. Burnt out from fall and broke from the holidays, the last thing most of us have in mind are scholarship deadlines popping up throughout March and April. If only there was an easier way. To make the process much more manageable, El Vaquero has done some research to supplement and simplify your scholarship experience. A common question is, where do we even find scholarships to apply to? There are many opportunities offered by Glendale Community College, for any student that attends the school. A common misconception among students is the thought that they don’t qualify for these grants, which often results in them not even trying. “Every so often, students are unaware of the different divisions in the GCC website,” said Aida Avanessian, Student Affairs Manager. Avanessian is referring to the GCC General Scholarship Application, a mass forum that any GCC students can complete and submit before March 22. The applications can be edited, as you go along and submitted whenever you’re ready. In
order to qualify, one needs to at least have a 2.5 GPA, have completed 12 units at the school, and have a letter of recommendation written by a professor. That’s it. Everyone, including AB540 and international students can apply. “The scholarship office would like students to know that every student has an equal opportunity of receiving a scholarship,” assured Avanessian. She also noted that students who take their time to write descriptive personal statements often have a higher chance of receiving these awards. Of course students shouldn’t just stop at applying for scholarships within the school. On page 4 of this issue of El Vaquero, fellow reporter Kylie Shannon has compiled a list of websites and mobile apps where students can apply for a mirriad of scholarships with plenty of categories to choose from. With that in mind, everyone, from the single working mom, to the first generation immigrant, can start investing in their future by simply applying. Find scholarships at https://bit.ly/2TCuxYL. Yesenia Thomson can be reached at Thomsonyesenia@gmail.com.
Glendale Community College
Offers Over Scholarship s
500
for its Students
Glendale Improvement Association Courtesy Photo
“Glendale – A Place For Homes:” The Harris House as it appeared in 1904. From the brochure produced by the Glendale Improvement Association.
Chasing Paranormal Activity: The Harris House This Glendale home is haunted by dead dogs
By Paul Kim Staff Reporter Hey guys, my name is Paul Kim and I am a reporter for the El Vaquero News. I will be doing a podcast about Paranormal Activity in the City of Glendale. Having previously experienced some paranormal activity in certain places, I quickly became fascinated by the idea of it, turning myself into a paranormal junkie. I especially love to explore through places that have been abandoned or haunted, but never wanted to go to these sites alone. At some point in my young adult life, I wanted to be a paranormal investigator. However, I am limited at this point, as I do not have the right equipment for ghost hunting, which makes me more cautious and scared to be there. For real! I went to my first paranormal hub in Glendale and it was at the historic Harris House and it was amazing. It was built in 1902 — before Glendale was even a city! You may have been there before and we promise that after this episode, you will never see it the same again. How often do I watch the ghost hunter video? I watch it all the time and it does creep me out but
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it’s cool to watch just not in a dark room and alone. The first time I watched it I felt uneasy, scared, and amazed, all at the same time. In conclusion, there will be more of the paranormal activity interviews and I am thinking of going to the Charlie Chaplin mansion next and other haunted places here in Glendale. Honestly, I want to experience the paranormal during the interview. Coming soon to you is the podcast of the paranormal in Glendale Community College’s El Vaquero News. Paul Kim can be reached at paulk221@gmail.com.
Scan this QR Code to check out Paul Kim’s Video Report from the Harris House on YouTube.
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019
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Martin Luther King’s Legacy Lives On at Glendale College GCC’s fourth annual interfaith breakfast brings lessons to students, staff By Marian Sahakyan Editor-in-Chief In efforts to honor Martin Luther King’s legacy, the Glendale College Foundation hosted its fourth annual Martin Luther King Jr.Interfaith Breakfast on Jan. 15, the same day the great leader would have turned 90. The agenda was full, as speakers of different backgrounds shared their take on the importance of love, tolerance and perseverance—things that MLK actively advocated. “We use the word ‘interfaith’ because there’s a common denominator, common thread that runs through all of this, which is love,” emphasized Robert Hill, dean of student services at GCC. “This is about faith, love and community.” To kick off the grand birthday celebration, comedian and master of ceremonies Aisha Alfa, directed the audience to “Turn to [their] neighbors and tell them ‘I love you.’” A powerful notion, this did not only force a group of strangers to let loose, but also emphasized King’s greatest philosophy of love. With a meaningful message underway, Rana Singh Sodhi took the stage as the keynote speaker. Sodhi’s one-of-a-kind story left
many speechless and wondering how he survived through the darkest of times. Sodhi lost his brother in what is known as the first hate crime related to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He proudly wore a turban, which was ultimately the reason why his brother was killed some 18 years ago. “I will not take off my turban,” he said. Despite dealing with depression and sadness due to the loss of his ‘best friend,’ Sodhi knew that he had a bigger mission in life; to educate. Since the very day of his brother’s murder, he has dedicated his life to educating America about his religion, Sikhism, and its teachings. Healing took a lot of courage, but Sodhi ultimately attributes his strength to the power of forgiveness. As he sat across from his brother’s killer, with only a glass window separating the two, Sodhi told the man that he forgives him. “Not forgiving wasn’t an option,” Sodhi added. As the event progressed, more speakers shared their insight on the concept of creating and holding a strong, supportive community. Glendale City Clerk Ardy Kassakhian, for example, reminded the event-goers that racism and injustice happens everywhere, even in the Jewel City and
Hayk Rostomyan Staff Photogtapher
AN INSIPIRING STORY: Rana Singh Sodhi talks about the murder of his beloved brother, in what is known as the first hate crime related to the 9/11 attacks in 2001.
surrounding areas. In a presentation, Kassakhian revealed the presence of American Nazis rallying in La Crescenta Park. He also discussed former mayor George Wickham, and how in the 1950’s Wickham placed restrictions on rental properties, only allowing Caucasians to reside in them. Gospel singer Chris Hawkins kept the mood light as he sang the “Happy Birthday” song in a unique, gospelized version. Lo-
cal Buddhist monks read their blessings for those who attended, spreading an overall mood of bliss and appreciation. Later in the afternoon, a panel of students gathered in the Student Center for a community town hall, where they discussed topics regarding the AfricanAmerican student experience at Glendale College. Organizers once again reminded the student body of the many resources and success strategies
that the college offers, bridging the way for students to get involved— despite race, ethnicity or beliefs. All in all, the event instilled a genuine theme of unification, by highlighting all the ways the Glendale community has come together to address and eliminate injustice, stigma and violence. Marian Sahakyan can be reached at manehsahakyan@gmail.com.
Scholarship Seeking? There’s an App For That Students can access opportunities at their own convenience with various options
By Kylie Shannon Lifestyle Editor Scholarship season is upon us, and yet most students have little-to-no knowledge about the plethora of outlets available to them regarding possible free money. The whole process of searching for scholarships can easily become frustrating and time consuming. Luckily, there are multiple apps and resources out there for students to take advantage of. Apps such as Scholly succeed at just that. The $2.99 subscription app is designed to narrow down scholarships with over 20,000 opportunities available. This app is basically a scholarship database. According to their website, not only do college students benefit from the app, but it is also applicable to graduate students and high school seniors. From tracking down deadlines, to finding new scholarships, Scholly has it all. To begin, one must become a member and subscribe, which incurs a monthly charge. A few extra details are also needed to begin, such as information regarding current major, inspirations, goals, GPA and more. The app was invented by students for students, making them a relevant alternative to online databases.
Nonetheless, these apps are still accessible through the web. Another app available is called Fastweb. Whose “swipe” method was modeled after dating apps. The layout was designed after the popular notion of swiping left for no and swiping right for yes. After a user inputs their current academic data, the app will specify needs based on skills and interests. This helps narrow down results for a more tailoring fit based on the student’s current state andor preferences. Fastweb includes over $3.4 billion in scholarships alone, according to their website. Another enhancement Fastweb includes is how they allow you to keep track of your progress and and access your scholarships as you apply for different kinds of aid regularly. Best of all, their app is free. The last app El Vaquero scouted is called Niche. What makes Niche unique is how it not only helps students with scholarships, but also provides them information with college profiles, admission calculators and even college rankings, all in one hub. This is a game changer, because it allows prospective students to view their options in one place. Niche is constantly updating their data to stay relevant, which is also useful, as tuition and college admission criteria are
constantly changing. Not to mention, their service remains free at no extra charge to begin. Let’s face it, with already so much to focus on, many students easily fall behind on keeping track of deadlines or seeking out resources that can help aid with scholarships. Today’s students are often in the market for convenience and that’s where these resources can be helpful. Regardless of the type of funding a student is seeking, these apps serve as a good starting point. Importantly it is still crucial to do one’s own research regarding particular scholarship apps and making sure they are reliable. Traditional modes of searching for opportunities shouldn’t be dismissed either. Students should visit their school’s Financial Aid office to find out information on scholarships or grants they are eligible for. Although Glendale College doesn’t have their own app available, they do, however, have an office that seeks to meet the needs of students. It is located on campus in room SC202. The last day to apply for GCC scholarships is March 22. Kylie Shannon can be reached at kshanno124@student.glendale.edu.
Tobias Graves-Morris Graphic Designer
Wednesday, March 13, 2019 EDITORIAL | SATIRE
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Sexual Violence in the Age of #MeToo Singer R. Kelly’s outburst during interview speaks volumes By El Vaquero Staff American R&B singer R. Kelly pleaded not guilty to 10 counts of aggravated criminal sex abuse in February and sat down to talk about the allegations against him in an explosive March 6 interview with CBS’s Gayle King The 52-year-old singer faces sex abuse charges over misconduct with four women, three of whom were reportedly minors at the time. All of the Class 2 felony counts convey a maximum of seven years in prison. The singer was also recently the subject of a Lifetime documentary series, “Surviving R. Kelly,” which allowed Kelly’s
victims to talk about what they endured at his hands. Referenced in the documentary is the R&B star’s relationship with the “Princess of R&B.” In 1994, at the age of 27, Kelly wed late singer Aaliyah who was only 15-years-old at the time. It was later revealed that Aaliyah falsified the information she provided and listed her age on the marriage certificate as 18. Yet it is doubtful that the R&B star didn’t know Aaliyah’s age, especially because other videos suggest he knew her age when he began producing music with her. R. Kelly’s potential wrongdoing with women comes as no surprise, as his escapades have been well-documented for years. It’s only now, in 2019, that
well-liked person. we are finally taking notice and While he still has people paying attention to the true cost who defend him, Kelly has been of sexual violence. criticized harshly in the media. Just over 10 years ago, a jury His conduct during the interview absolved R. Kelly of blame. It’s with King seemed to solidify the hard to imagine that happening notion that the today. During Kelly’s “Kelly’s reactions singer does have 2008 child pornography are reminiscent of something to hide trial, which involved the outrage over and is outraged a 13-year-old girl, he late singer Michael anyone would dare pleaded not guilty. The Jackson, who, despite to question him. evidence against him abundant evidence In the interview, was considerably strong suggesting child the singer blamed and included eyewitness abuse, seemed to walk social media for testimonies and video. away from it during the accusations As in the Michael a different era of made by the Jackson child molestation understanding abuse.” women in the trial in 2005, the jury in documentary, who, the Kelly case seemed according to him, are “lying.” to be willing to look the other Kelly’s reactions are reminiscent way when sexual violence is of the outrage over late singer perpetrated by a famous and
Michael Jackson, who, despite abundant evidence suggesting child abuse, seemed to walk away from it during a different era of understanding abuse. The media and the #MeToo movement have created a platform for victims such as the women in the “Surviving R. Kelly” documentary to come forward with their past sexual abuse stories easily. Today’s generation is forcing us to rethink issues. We’re forgiving, but we also hold people accountable, and we give praise to reporters like Gayle King who shine the light on truth and give a voice to abuse survivors. Send your opinions and response about this editorial to elvaq.gcc@gmail.com.
SATIRE
7 Tips For Success This Semester El Vaq has the lowdown! Practice Self-Care Making time for activities that relieve stress is essential to your mental health. Take a goat pajama yoga class, talk to yourself out loud on the street, pay to have a thousand needles stabbed into your pressure points, blast death-metal music in your cramped apartment and even dress up as a deranged clown to scare the living daylight out of people after dark. Whatever keeps that boat of yours afloat. Enlist Help from a Student Tutor
STUDY BREAK: Ramirr Moseley, a culinary arts student, lounges on the floors of the GCC Library between classes.
By Samantha Decker Features Editor It’s the time of the year when we all board the big yellow struggle bus and head off to another semester of higher learning. In 16 fun-filled weeks, we will do things like work on important projects in dysfunctional groups, learn math but not the kind that will help you count cards in Vegas, and write 20-page papers on the life stages of fungi while not being able to cite Wikipedia as a credible source. Here are some tips to help you survive: Get Plenty of Sleep The sweet sensation of shut
eye will be scarce as soon as the semester gets underway, so get as much of it as you can now, before the heap of homework is so large that it takes up most of your bed. Unfortunately, the campus renovations didn’t include any progressive office-style nap pods, so you’ll have to get creative when catching a short snooze. Manage Your Energy Level Caffeine is a great way to patch the holes in your sleep schedule. You’re always just a measly $5 and a few slurps away from being intoxicated with motivation. Need to level up your artificial energy game even more? Energy drinks like Red Bull coursing through your
veins will power you through your studying and still leave you energy to vacuum the curtains. Bonus: this is the time to accumulate coffee rewards quickly and cash them in, to score free drinks. Ditch Netflix Biggest lie you tell yourself: “I’ll just watch a little Netflix and then I’ll get started.” The popular streaming service is the arch enemy of all productivity. Entire intellectual breakthroughs have been lost to an unharnessed Netflix addiction. The only way to release its tight grip on your attention is to use hypnosis to push it into the depths of your subconscious. Have it set up so when some-
Dylan A. Bryant Photo Credit
one says “Thank God finals are over,” you’ll suddenly remember Netflix exists and you can happily binge watch your summer away. Eat Foods That Lower Stress Everyone knows the food pyramid for college students is different from that of the rest of society. When your focus is on developing your mind, your body will make certain changes to allow foods it would normally reject. Luckily, in these extreme circumstances our bodies will naturally derive nutrients from traditionally unhealthy foods. For example, ketchup and relish are basically the same thing as a leafy green salad.
Get all of your questions answered by someone who is just as stressed and lost as you. Tutors are conveniently available at a low cost or for free by the school, due to their very recent knowledge of the coursework and their absence of teaching credentials or formal training. Nevertheless, it’s help you cant refuse. You may even form a bond with this person over your mutual suffering. Everything’s easier when you’re in it together! Break Up With Your Gf/Bf, You’re Busy Getting that degree is your only love now. But don’t worry about being lonely, your studies will always be close by your side. You homework will accompany you on fancy dinner dates, late candle-lit nights (please refrain from burning your notes indoors), and on any weekend getaway. Channel all your leftover hormones into scouting for a summer fling instead.
Samantha Decker can be reached at samantha.l.decker13@gmail.com.
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019
MOMO
Understanding the threat
By Lilit Sedrakyan Staff Writer When my 10-year-old boy came from school very scared and started to tell me about “Momo,” I thought he was acting. I assumed that this was another stunt to get me to leave him alone with my endless lectures. However, when I noticed that he was really scared and was afraid to stay in his room alone, I started to worry. As I found out from his words, he hadn’t even seen Momo on YouTube. His classmate told him that there is a scary creature that pops up on YouTube videos, hypnotizes, making kids harm or kill themselves. My son’s friend had shared what his mother had told him. For several days, I was reading everything about Momo, trying to find out if it was a hoax or a real threat to my kids. My continuous
research looped back to the same points. In the viral internet culture, Momo, which originally began as a piece of Japanese art, was a scary half-woman and half-bird creature that has been frightening kids. Parents were cautioned that this viral Momo character can give dangerous tasks and instructions on how to do “bad things,” including committing suicide. It appears that bad people tapping into fears used Momo to create apprehension in children, which translated into concern of parents. It was recently announced that Momo is “dead,” as the creator of the sculpture destroyed it. This put me at ease, however, something still disturbed me. It wasn’t Momo that had been stuck in my head during this time, but how deeply technology has invaded our interpersonal connections, extruding all “traditional” form of communication. Bored internet forum users encouraged the creation of fear
The Mueller Report A highlight reel of the investigation into Trump’s involvement with Russia By Hayk Martirosyan Opinion Editor Nothing illustrates the divisiveness of the modern political climate like the ongoing Special Counsel investigation. This investigation began with the identifying Russian interference in American elections, and will be two years old on May 17. While many have argued that the election is a waste of money or a method to undermine Donald Trump’s presidency, it is difficult to argue that Russia possibly interfering in American politics is not a troublesome thought, with terrible global ramifications. The investigation was set off in January 2017, when the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence made a claim that the Russian President,Vladimir Putin, ordered a publicity operation during the 2016 election, to undermine the Clinton campaign and increase political instability within the United States. A special
investigation was called forth, and as the law dictates, it was to be overseen by the Attorney General. Conflict arose soon after Jeff Sessions was appointed to the post of the new Attorney General, as he was accused of having contact with Russian ambassador Sergei Kislyak in 2016. To avoid a conflict of interest, Sessions recused himself from the investigation, stepping down as the overseer. The position of overseeing the investigation fell to Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who was newly appointed for the position by President Trump. In turn Rosenstein called for a special council to oversee the investigation, appointing the exdirector of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Robert Muller, as the head of the special council. Prior to the establishment of the special council in May of 2017, the investigation was
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in children — many of whom were too afraid to even tell their parents about what was going on. Do we really know what our kids are doing on their phones? Parents should limit screen time, as indicated in recent studies. Consider a 2018 study from Common Sense Media and a Survey Monkey Poll that found 47 percent of parents are concerned their children are addicted to their smart devices. The real threat isn’t Momo. It’s hidden in estrangement, when kids lose connections with parents and one another. Even worse, they lose the need to communicate in natural modes. Today it’s Momo, yesterday it was the Blue Whale Challenge, tomorrow it can be the negative influence of drugs and alcohol. There’s a common theme that we need to tap into, and that’s keeping in touch.
Lilit Sedrakyan can be reached at lsedrak810@student.glendale.edu.
handled by the FBI. This came to an end when President Trump fired the then director of FBI, James Comey on May 9 of 2017. Theories began cropping up, accusing Trump of covering up the truth by removing Comey, and the demand for the Special Council grew louder. By January of this year, the Special Counsel has initiated legal action against 34 people, including seven Americans, 26 Russians, and one Dutch lawyer. It has also indicted three Russian organizations, including subgroups belonging to the Russian intelligence agency GRU, which is directly under the jurisdiction of Putin. George Papadopoulos, a Trump advisor, was found guilty of withholding information from the FBI, Paul Manafort, a lobbyist, was found guilty of fraud and withholding information from the FBI, Rick Gates, a lobbyist, was found guilty for conspiracy against the US, Michael Flynn, US National Security Advisor, was found guilty of withholding information from the FBI Michael Cohen, Trump’s personal lawyer, found guilty of fraud and campaign funding
Matthew Spencer Staff Illustrator
Tomorrow can bring a new terror.
violations. Due to the many arrests during this investigation, the Counsel has been provided with dozens of witness testimonies and documentation handed over by the House Intelligence Committee, controlled by Democrats. Its latest arrest was made on Jan. 25 of this year, when an FBI raid led to the detainment of long time Trump advisor, Roger Stone. The latter was charged with obstruction of justice, lying to investigators, and tampering with evidence. Previously led by the Republican Party, the House Intelligence Committee had a big impact on the arrest of Roger Stone. In the past, this committee was led by the Republican party, which repeatedly insisted on not cooperating with the Special Council. Further dissatisfaction of the Special Council extended throughout the Republican Party, primarily amongst Trump appointees. One of the greatest threats to the Special Council is Matthew Whitaker, the Trumpappointed Attorney General who replaced Sessions. The president was publicly critical of Sessions for recusing himself, instead of handling the investigation directly, which lead to him
dismissing Sessions. Prior to his new position, Whitaker,, repeatedly criticized the Mueller investigation, calling it a “mob” that is out to “overthrow the President.” For these comments, congressmen suggested he recuse, and though, resistant at first, he left the Justice Department on March 2. William Barr took the post of Attorney General. In a conference with Congress, Whitaker stated that he has been briefed regarding the Mueller Investigation, and that it is coming to an end very soon.Upon his choice, Barr will present the Congress with an omitted summary of the final case. In the event that the Congress is dissatisfied with Barr’s presentation, they may demand the full Mueller report. Whichever case it may be, the implications of the Mueller case are astronomical, leading to possible global scale conflict between the United States and Russia. Furthermore, if proven true, the Report indicates conspiratorial corruption in the highest echelons of the American government. Hayk Martirosyan can be reached at haykm212@gmail.com.com.
TRUMP AND PUTIN COLLUSION: Propaganda on the streets of Washington DC, implicating Trump of cullsion with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Mark Maguire Creative Commons
Wednesday, March 13, 2019 OPINION | SPORTS
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Addressing the ‘Wall’ Trump’s farcical national emergency becomes a major insult towards the undocumented By Gabby Duga Staff Writer When I heard that President Donald Trump was going to declare a national emergency, my first thoughts were, “You’ve got to be kidding me!” But then again, I was not surprised that he would call a national emergency on an issue that was irrelevant and distant from the reality of things in the southern border. “Trump’s recent declaration of a national emergency to appropriate funds for his socalled wall may backfire on him,” said Richard Kamei, assistant division chair of the social science department. The National Emergencies Act of 1976 (NEA) was passed by Congress, giving the president the ultimate power to declare a state of emergency in an executive order, during a time of threat to the nation. In addition, the president would be able to declare such a state, bypassing the approval of Congress. However, an abuse of the usage of the NEA can face a severe rebuke from Congress and the federal courts. Brennan Center of Justice,
a non-partisan law and public refugee status in the future,” policy institute within New York explained Hoover Zariani, University, reported that a total manager of the Multicultural & of 58 national emergencies have Community Engagement Center been declared since the passage at GCC. of the federal law, 31 of which To give a sobering perspective, are still in effect. The most recent Cameron Hastings, a political and perhaps significant national science professor at GCC emergency was one relating mentioned that “the positive to Transnational Organized outcome of this is that the status Crime, declared by quo will probably “Of the prior President Barack remain the same for executive orders, Obama in 2011. right now,” Trump Of the prior President Trump’s is further neglects that executive orders, the most divisive. Six this unsubstantiated President Trump’s “national emergency” is the most out of 10 Americans is nothing more than a divisive. Six out of are against President political stunt because 10 Americans are Trump declaring a the efficiency of the against President “national emergency” wall is questionable at Trump declaring its core. Zariani argues over the southern a “national that “there will never border [...]” emergency” over be a wall like the one the southern border, most people imagined according to a survey conducted (all the way across the border).” recently by PBS NewsHour, NPR Furthermore, in light of the and the Marist Poll. current national emergency, a And yet, President Trump is precedent can be set that may still insisting and persisting that result in future administrations a wall will “guarantee” safety using the NEA for their own against criminals and “caravans” political interests and advances. filled with asylum seekers. Kamei theorized that due to “how “The whole concept of dysfunctional our political system national emergency and a wall are is at present time; the application fear tactics to stop those seeking of the National Emergencies
Act will increase in the future for matters, such as acts to expand rights for undocumented immigrants.” Declaring such frivolous national emergency, affects not only the relationship between immigrant communities and the federal government but also harms the negotiations behind closed doors between Congress, DACA recipients, stakeholders and communities on passing any new and comprehensive legislation on immigration reform. Furthermore, many political pundits and analysts “are asserting that it sets a precedent for Democrats to declare national emergencies, such as catastrophic climate change and gun violence, when a Democrat regains the presidency,” Kamei noted. Documented or not, immigrants are vital to the fabric of American society. A report conducted by the Center of American Progress, a public policy think tank in Washington DC, that 18 percent of the current immigrants are entrepreneurs and 7.5 percent of the foreign-born population are self-employed. Immigrants show that diversity embodies strength in our communities. Sharing
and learning about different cultures and heritages makes us sophisticated and refined. Our future is hanging in the balance and if the federal government could have done something about immigration reform sooner rather than later, this situation would have not gone to the pits of hell. “Actually, I don’t think the emergency executive order itself will have much effect on DACA,” Hastings added. She prefaced her statement by saying that “it creates a situation where there will be little to no movement on immigration policy as a whole, at least until we see the 2020 election.” Congress, immigration groups, and organizations must begin negotiations on what legislation should be introduced to Congress for the better future of undocumented immigrants. It is up to us as voters and citizens of this country to vote for our future representatives and senators who will represent our districts and our state in the 117th Congress.
Gabby Duga can be reached at nduga808@student.glendale.edu.
GCC Victorious Against El Camino Women’s basketball makes history in the first round of the CCCAA State Playoffs By Michael Dumansky Sports Editor TORRANCE, Calif. - Being in unfamiliar territory, the Glendale Community College Women’s Basketball team (22-5) has made tremendous strides this season to get to the CCCAA (California Community College Athletics Association) state playoffs. After claiming the Western State Conference championship in the East Division, the Lady Vaqs found themselves playing on the road against the El Camino College (ECC) Warriors (23-7), a familiar foe they faced off earlier in the season and had previously lost to in a 62-58 game. “Every day we’ve been going over their offense, figuring out how to get through the cracks,” said sophomore guard Cheyenne Jankulovski when asked about the team’s preparation. Although this was first playoff appearance in 16 years, this game would be a major cornerstone for the future of the program. The Lady Vaqs began the game on the shakey side with having only Sophomore center Sylvia Vartazarian scoring the team’s first six points to keep them in the contest for a majority of the first quarter. Although she held the team, early foul trouble forced her to sit. At the end of the first quarter, the score was
Talking Strategy: The team comes into the huddle to talk strategies before heading into he final quarter”
10-9, Glendale merely staying in the game. At the start of the second quarter, Cheyenne Jankulovski began to gain confidence as she made all five of her attempts from the field to put up 11 points and help the team to extend the lead to double digits. Glendale went on a 11-2 scoring run to start the second quarter before the Warriors cut the deficit 21-16, with 4:31 left in the first half. Fortunately for the Lady Vaqs,
Sophomore forward Marlene Salazar hit a crucial three-pointer to close out the second quarter and extend the lead for Glendale 26-17. “We went over the game plan endlessly,” Salazar said. “We knew what we had to run offensively. We knew who had to have the ball in their hands, so I guess execution was really what helped us. When coach called a play, we were able to run it and get it to the person’s hand and just trust it.”
As the second half was underway, El Camino began to inch closer to the lead and were only down 35-30 with 5:19 left in the third. The Warriors didn’t stop there and came within three, as at the 4:23, mark GCC lead 37-34. Glendale was able to maintain a small lead but several fouls by the Lady Vaqs kept ECC in the game for a majority of the third quarter. Glendale was able to keep a tight lead, 47-38 with a consistent effort going into the fourth quarter.
Elena Perez Photo Credit
As the nerves flew in at the start of the fourth quarter, GCC played their best quarter of the game, outscoring the Warriors 24-17. Glendale didn’t take their foot off the gas pedal and came away with a 71-55 victory. Overcome with emotion and pure excitement, the team embraced themselves just as they did when they began the game. They were together as one on a journey through the toughest road yet. Michael Dumansky can be reached at Mdumans011@student.glendale.edu.
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019 8
Eyes on the Prize
Steven Hubbell is set to transfer and continue his basketball career By Dylan A. Bryant Photo Editor As the men’s basketball season comes to a close, the first team All-Conference point guard and second-year player Steven Hubbell looks to life after Glendale Community College (GCC) as he plans his next chapter. Hubbell plans to transfer to a fouryear university and continue his basketball career while getting a degree in business marketing. He could not confirm the school he will be attending because he has yet to make a final decision, but expressed excitement about the future. Hubbell grew up not too far from GCC in Burbank, where he starred as a varsity quarterback and starting point guard for John Burroughs High School. As a multi-sport athlete in high school, the now 21-year-old point guard felt that being able to lead by example in both sports had made him a better basketball player and teammate. Football and basketball translated so well for the sophomore as they can be attributed to his play making ability
and being able to create something out of nothing. “Making reads during a play is similar to a point guard running an offense,” Hubbell said. “Seeing what the defense gives you on a set play.” Hubbell’s love for the game began as a three-year-old, shooting hoops in his backyard, to eventually playing organized basketball at the local YMCA at the age of six. Hubbell says his family was very supportive throughout the years, being at every game and cheering from the sidelines. To this day, as games carry him further and further to different cities, his family still makes every effort to be in attendance. Hubbell started learning and playing basketball before most players do. The athlete’s dad, Darren Hubbell, played and coached basketball at the college. Hubbell Sr. even received the “Most Improved Player” award in back-to-back seasons while playing between 1984 and 1986. Hubbell Sr. even made his way back to GCC to coach in 1997 until 2000. Hubbell Jr.
took advantage and learned from the benches at a young age as his dad coached the Vaqueros. This experience is something he says he will cherish for years to come. During his final season at GCC, Steven Hubbell was tasked with leading the team, as he was the only returning player from the previous year. It was the 21-year-old’s turn to make his mark, as his father did before. Despite the season having its ups and downs, the young athlete felt that the team ended on a good note. He hopes everyone on his team and those who aspire to continue playing basketball, will still have the opportunity next season with GCC or a four-year university. Hubbell finished the year earning first team All-Conference honors, continuing his father’s legacy and establishing his own. The path to success is far from over, as there is still more to write for Steven Hubbell’s story. Basketball is something he plans on playing for years to come, as he is set to transfer this year. The motto he lives by, is perhaps the reason this point-guard will have an immediate impact on his fu-
ENTERTAINMENT
Dylan A. Bryant Photo Credit
NEXT UP: Steven Hubbell is looking forward to his basketball career at a four-year institution.
ture team. Kobe Bryant once said, “I’ll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it’s sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting
Illustration by Matthew Spencer Staff Illustrator
Guilty Pleasures What embarassing songs are on your playlist? By Selena Reyes Entertainment Editor A large variety of song are blasted through speakers and some only through the secrecy of headphones. Everyone has got a song, perhaps a couple of them, that they are secretly obsessed with but are too embarrassed to share. Stepping out of your comfort zone is challenging. Be it through your fashion sense, trying out new food, or sharing personal information with anyone besides the reflection in the mirror. Vaqueros were put in the spotlight when asked, “What song are you secretly listening to at the moment?” Within their responses, it was obvious most of the songs selected were only secretive because it’s taboo for men to be fans of feminine music or even women being fans of songs that may be interpreted as degrading to them. The campus playlist features artists Nicki Minaj, Banda MS, Aqua, The Weeknd, Mais Shirvanyan, Ciara, Yg, and plenty more. https://soundcloud.com/glendale-newspaper/sets/gcc-guiltypleasures Selena Reyes can be reached at sreyes401@student.glendale.edu.
Netflix’s ‘Paddleton’ is Both Poignant and Honest New offering from streaming network touches a taboo topic By Jake Denne Staff Writer Coming off the last weekend of awards season and the hangover from major studio self-aggrandizing drama, Netflix quietly released the independently produced “Paddleton.” It stars Mark Duplass (“Safety Not Guaranteed,” “The League”) as Michael; a quiet, middle-aged man diagnosed with terminal cancer in the film’s opening scene. There to accompany him closely through the diagnoses and its aftermath is Andy, portrayed painfully honest in a dramatic shift by Ray Romano (“Everybody Loves Raymond”). The relationship of these two men is close but largely never defined beyond the fact that Andy is Michael’s upstairs neighbor. Faced with this incurable illness (cancer of the stomach and liver), Michael decides that rather than wither away slowly and agonizingly, he will obtain a prescription for life-ending medication from
his doctor. Michael and Andy are close. Neither are seen socializing with anyone else and the only mention of family is a brief comment Michael makes about not wanting his sister to know about his decision to end it. The two men spend their free time eating frozen pizzas, obsessively watching Kung Fu movies, and playing a made up racquetball/basketball hybrid they’ve named Paddleton. Michael asks Andy to be there with him when the time comes because he doesn’t want to be alone. Faced with this unfair and unwinnable circumstance, the two embark on a roadtrip to fill Michael’s prescription at the nearest pharmacy that has no moral objection, a short six hours away. The film chronicles the two men and their emotional navigation of a battle that they know will end in a loss of the worst kind, the loss of someone you love. Some films use a grand scale to tell their story. They create worlds far separate from our own and envelop the audience into something that feels bigger,
almost beyond comprehension. Some choose to tell their story more intimately; in a proximity so close that it hurts you with its truth. “Paddleton” captures the latter method superbly and conveys emotional depth and heartache, with a level of subtlety and honesty that is rarely seen. The last decade has seen an explosion of the “bromance” genre of cinema that more often than not tries to ease the socially uncomfortable idea that two men can be emotionally close while maintaining their heterosexual machismo. However superficial many of those stories have been, what they have done is open the door for a film such as this to be taken seriously. The setup of the film makes the audience question the nature of the two lead’s relationship but then dispels the notion of romance and allows the story to continue without the cloud of uncertainty. This creates an out of place feeling when their relationship is questioned on a couple of occasions along the way because it seems like an
the game-winning shot.” This has become a philosophy that many basketball players have adopted, including Hubbell. Dylan A. Bryant can be reached at dylanbryant97@gmail.com.
irrelevant bit of information. Duplass and Romano’s chemistry is understated and heartwarming. They play like Matthau and Lemmon in “The Odd Couple” if both were socially anxious and neurotic. These two men have no one except each other which makes the inevitable doom all the more heartbreaking. Their discomfort and the way they keep things at arm’s length is what makes them relatable. How are you supposed to handle such a situation? More importantly, it asks the audience, “how would you handle it?” Grief and pain have no guidelines and are infinitely subjective. What sorrowful films often try to illustrate are worlds where everyone says what they need to say, when they need to say it. People blow up at each other. Things are hashed out. Tension is resolved, and the only thing left to be sad for is a neatly-packed death at the end. What “Paddleton” does differently is illustrate how rarely people are actually like that. They are scared, quiet, and unsure of when to say what they feel. The reality of death is that no one is ever really prepared when it comes. Whether its arrival is known and expected or sudden and jarring, when someone is gone, there is no getting them back. “Paddleton” has no plot surprises, it ends as was promised from the start. What is surprising is the genuine pain it inflicts on an audience that may not have seen it coming. 3.5/4 Stars Paddleton (2019), Directed by Alex Lehmann, Runtime 89 minutes, Rated TV-MA, Available to stream exclusively on Netflix. Jake Denne can be reached at jakedenne@yahoo.com.