050218 by Cerritos College Talon Marks

TALONMARKS.COM MAY 2, 2018

@TALONMARKS

VOLUME 62 | ISSUE 20

Problems resurface in Fine Arts Building

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Jasmine Martinez Staff Writer @butchmartian

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Carmelita Islas Mendez

News Editor @talonmarks

ccording to the Director of Physical Planning and Construction Services David Moore “most users are very happy” with the Fine Arts Building at Cerritos College. However, instructors in the Fine Arts’ ceramics program expressed that some issues should be addressed in order to improve conditions with the room’s equipment and design. Various issues have been brought up within the program’s ceramic studio and courtyard which highlight the dissatisfaction with the building. These issues range from acoustics to lighting issues within the room making instruction difficult. As well as an inefficient dust collection system and technical issues with the kilns, which require additional measures to ensure a safer working environment. The ceramics department uses its kilns to burn, bake or dry clay into pottery pieces. Moore said, “As far as I know they’re operable and [the faculty are] able to use them. I don’t believe there’s any sort of hazard.” Director and Curator of the Cerritos College Art Gallery James MacDevitt elaborated on the issue with the kilns saying, “My understanding is that the kilns were somehow misaligned with the flukes on the top. When the kilns are actually being fired

https://bit.ly/2HENVPj

OPINION Free Speech Zone: Should adults have the choice to undergo gay conversion therapy or should the government ban it? CARMELITA ISLAS MENDEZ

Major issues arise: Head of ceramics Steven Portigal said, “This was a learning experience for them however there is no next time with the

building.” He hoped to have the issues resolved by the end of the semester, but knows that it is unlikely. up they pump out so much heat that they actually make the whole area uninhabitable.” The kilns were placed in the ceramics courtyard, which is an outside area and has passive ventilation according to Moore. However, he admitted that “there is an opportunity to improve the air circulation.” MacDevitt continued saying, “It’s unhealthy because it can get

up to 115 degrees.” Steven Portigal, head of the ceramics program, said that he has tried to have the issues resolved. Portigal explained that he is retiring by the end of the semester and would like to leave having had the issues resolved. However, with the end of the semester soon approaching, he doesn’t expect the issues to be

resolved. Portigal said he has taken others on a tour of the facility and told them “these things have to change.” Moore said that investigations into the kilns’ exhaust systems have been made, but that he thinks they are safe as the department has been using the kilns for over a year. Portigal said that he believes the responsibility to correct the

many issues lie with the architects and that the building was a new experience for the company. “This was a learning experience for them however there is no next time with the building.” Portigal concluded by saying, “If you talk to the painting faculty, if you talk to James [MacDevitt] and the gallery, [they] would all have a similar list of things that didn’t go right.”

Honoring the faculty Liz Corcoles

COURTESY OF DARYL PETERSON

Falcons’ victorious: Men’s and women’s tennis team went to the California Community College Athletic Association Dual State Championships and win titles.

Falcons’ men’s and women’s tennis teams make history by winning title Jah-Tosh Baruti Sports Editor @press1800tosh

erritos College’s men’s and women’s tennis teams made tournament history on April 25, for the first time Both teams won the California Community College Athletic Association Dual State Championship. Each team won with a final score of 5-0. Men played American River and women played De Anza College. It was only the second time in CCCAA history that both the

men’s and women’s Dual State Championship were won by the same school during the same season. The men’s team won their first Dual State Championship in school history, while the women’s team won their second title in three years. Sophomore Diviana Bravo, said, “It was really exciting for all of us to make this dream come true.” Head coach Quinn Caldaron, in his first year at Cerritos College lead both teams to a state title. It was also his first time coaching a men’s and women’s

team simultaneously. “Our last coach Alvin Kim.. recruited a really good team and when our new coach Quinn Caldaron came in, he made sure he kept us [up] with rhythm and motivation to keep fighting to achieve our goals,” Bravo said. “He also made sure we were always prepared for our games, not just in singles or doubles, but for both. Before the season, Petra Such explained her goals for the season, she said, “We would like to win the state this year.”

See Tennis story, Page 4

Staff Writer @evaporarrr

erritos College held its annual Outstanding Faculty Awards Ceremony on April 26 at the Student Center for the 2017-2018 academic year. The faculty were commended for their outstanding performance. The professor of honor, Carlos Mera, Physics instructor, was commended and received the Most Outstanding Faculty award. The event was put together by Chair of Profession Relations Committee and professor Joseph Van de Mortel. President of Cerritos College, Dr. Jose Fierro states there was a committee who chose the winning faculty and “there is a level of alignment of how the faculty select and perceive other faculty and how students perceive other faculty.” Mera gratefully accepted his award and made a speech. “I am very honored and humble about this,” Mera said. Given the news, Mera reminisced about how he got to be where he is now. “I remember starting here 30 years ago as a student and taking ESL classes,” he said. He continued on and says he learned that when it comes to teaching, it is not just about restating facts, it’s about bringing knowledge to life. “I had great instructors here. People that inspired me to achieve what I have achieved,” said Mera. “I think because of them, the people that came before me, the

ones that are coming after me, it is my job to help my students and help them succeed and achieve their greatest heights.” Mera thanks his students for making him better than he claims he could be, “I enjoy what I am doing and I think they feel that. They [students] feel that I am showing up to class not just because I have to, but because I like to and that helped me win.” Fierro stated, “Students are recognizing their professors for their success. Carlos Mera was the professor that stood out and was mentioned by almost every student.”

I am showing up to class not just because I have to, but because I like to and that helped me win. Carlos Mera physics professor

Adding, “Carlos is one of those people that are inspirational for many, including me,” said Fierro. “His story, the way he treats his students, work ethic and his outlook for the future is inspirational. He is a really good person and obviously a great instructor.” Michelle Lewellen, Faculty Senate President, presented the ceremony and announced other faculty as outstanding. Other who were awarded as Outstanding Faculty were Jason Foral from welding, Anthony Fortner from woodworking, Debra Johnson from Accounting and Finance among others.

Responding to a bigoted letter to editor It’s the job of the free market to end commercial practices, not the government

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COLLEGE LIFE ‘The Fantasticks’ lack creativity and uniqueness on stage Bianca Bitches: How to keep your cool and survive finals Avengers assemble! ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ review New falcons check out the college life at the Senior Preview Day

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SPORTS Shmackem: NBA Playoffs predictions for second rounds Tennis becomes first to sweep championships at Ojai Former Falcon signs with four-year university

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OPINION

Wednesday May 2, 2018

EDITORIAL

speech zone Gays can’t be fixed, good! Free Should adults have the choice to

RACHEL TULLY/FREELANCE ILLUSTRATOR

reedom to choose conversion therapy, which is rooted in hateful and harmful ideologies perpetuated by homophobes, should not be a choice offered to LGBTQ people in the first place. In a recent letter to the editor, Wayne Lela considered it an insult to the “intelligence of people” that California legislators are considering Assembly Bill 2943, which would make it illegal for adults to receive conversion therapy. Frankly, it’s an insult to intelligence that people still believe in the so-called effectiveness of this therapy, decades after the American Psychiatric Association ruled out homosexuality as

a mental disorder. Lela, founder of Heterosexuals Organized for a Moral Environment, classifies sexual and gender identities straying from heterosexuality as disorders and encourages people to ask their legislator to drop the “antichoice bill.” Also, if you haven’t already heard, the two new genders are officially “heterophobic homosexuals” and “normal heterosexuals” and a new sexuality, sadism. Obviously no skewed ideas of gender and sexuality there. People with these beliefs have no valuable input to offer people who are LGBTQ, let alone advise them to seek conversion.

Conversion therapy, a discriminatory practice that aims to change a person’s sexual and/ or gender identity, can lead to depression, anxiety, drug use, homelessness and suicide as stated by the Human Rights Campaign. Nowhere in the gay agenda does it include converting people to a desired sexuality via electroshock therapy, nausea-inducing drugs and other violent methods, so they can’t be the deviant ones here. There is already enough trauma and self-hatred caused by internalized homophobia, sometimes lifelong, and people want to give others the choice to risk their health and well-being even

more? And for what? Wanting to fix someone that doesn’t need fixing? Queer love is beautiful and deserves support and recognition, not the alternative to “convert” for the sake of homophobes’ comfort. Instead of maintaining this glorified view of heterosexuality, acknowledge that being lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender does not indicate disease, illness or disorder. Give LGBTQ people the freedom to build a life rooted in selfacceptance and love, which is possible to achieve through plain ol’ therapy. Hold the conversion. Counseling for LGBTQ minors and adults does exist and is the healthier, better option than the “freedom” to learn how to repress your identity. It is already illegal for minors to receive conversion therapy in California by licensed mental health counselors, so there’s no logic in banning a violent practice for minors and then deciding that it is an acceptable practice available to adults. Young, legal adults can still be vulnerable to others in a position of power over them and who convince them to seek such treatment. The bill states that “courts, including in California, have recognized the practice of sexual orientation efforts as a ‘commercial service’ and therefore, conversion therapy ‘may constitute unlawful, unfair, or fraudulent business practices.’” Turns out the heterosexual agenda includes risking LGBTQ lives for not only personal views, but monetary gains as well. People deserve a chance to heal, especially the ones with the most internalized homophobia and hatred for themselves. Don’t buy into the supposed freedom of choice at the cost of other people’s safety.

undergo gay conversion therapy or should the government ban it? Explain why. Complied By: David Jenkins Jr.

Jaxx Mena

Editor-in-Chief @mr_sniknej

Staff Writer @ijackiemena

“Well I believe you can have a choice, but I don’t think it’ll do any good. It’s like trying to change the color of your eyes. But it’s a free country and people should have a choice.”

Casey Piotrowski Instructor, Theatre Arts

“I feel like it should be banned because I don’t believe you should be convinced about who you are as a person. And if you want to go to therapy for gay conversion or have second thoughts about it I don’t think gay conversion therapy would be the right place to go.” Danielle Pastor Kinesiology major

“I believe the individual should have the right to under go therapy treatment if they believe they want it or they don’t. I don’t think the government should necessarily have control ... if the person wants to they should have that option. I don’t think the government should take that away from them.”

The free market will kill conversion therapy David Jenkins Jr.

Editor-in-Chief @mr_sniknej

alifornia is trying to pass a law that would ban gay conversion therapy for adults and the moral police are having a cow. Though there are reasons to see the procedure as harmful, the practice itself should be done away with not through government intervention, but instead with better information. One of the things that makes America a country of liberation is the concept of economic freedom. The principle and value that two consenting parties can exchange money for services. If an adult who is a part of the LGBTQ community and feels that they want to go through this therapy, they should have the right to make a purchase for the services of the therapist. Some might be thinking of the well documented and harmful history that gay conversion therapy has.

Well, the thing is, the practice itself is dying out. That’s because better ideas and information will always defeat wrong and bad ideas in the scientific field and not to mention in the business world. Our society has been getting better information about homosexuality and transgenderism, that the practice of gay conversion therapy is fading away. The market place of ideas is suffocating the regressive notion that homosexuality is “curable.” No government intervention is needed here, the practice will die out on its own because no one will want to pay money to a procedure that has no empirical evidence whatsoever. The consumer can protect themselves with scientific information, without the help of the government banning business practices. These are how bad ideas diminish and pragmatic ideas get embraced. Take the flat earth theory for example.

Production and printing of Talon Marks is partially funded by the Associated Students of Cerritos College. Talon Marks is a First Amendment publication. Editorials express the views of the Editorial Board. Other opinions express the view of the author and are not to be considered opinions of the publication’s staff, the Editorial Board, the advisers, the Cerritos College Associated Students, the college administration or the Board of Trustees.

Facilities and academic supervision are provided by the Journalism Program. Newsroom offices are located in the Fine Arts Building, Room FA245. Cerritos College is located at 11110 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650 Telephone numbers: (562) 860-2451, ext. 2618

Before, this was a wide-held belief and was approved by the church, with better information it is now being mocked on the internet for being an outdated and stupid idea. Gay conversion therapy is rapidly on that path and for good reason. It doesn’t need the help of the government to bury it, it will do that all on its own. People like Wayne Lela, founder of the Heterosexuals Organization for a Moral Environment will be laughed at when ever he speaks out his outdated and bigoted rhetoric. Though, Lela brought the legislation known as Assembly Bill 2943 to the attention of the staff by sending in a letter to the editor in opposition to the bill stating; “It’s fairly obvious that female minds in male bodies and male minds in female bodies and homosexual minds in heterosexual bodies are sure signs that something went wrong somewhere, in nature and/or nurture, are sure

signs of mind/body mismatches or disorders. “So, to put transgenders and heterophobic homosexuals on the same level as normal heterosexuals is absurd. “No rational person can deny that. This was the commonsense position of the American Psychiatric Association for years before it became corrupted by irrational, ever-so-trendy ‘political correctness.’” Look how Talon Marks responded, a cartoon of his goofy ass was drawn, not only to ridicule him but also to mock the backward ideas he puts forth. We’re confident enough to do this because we know the information and science is on our side. If Lela ever wants to have a public debate, let it be known that his ideas and outdated information will be torn to shreds and the help of the government will not be needed in anyway, shape or form. Let this be an open invitation to Lela.

Spring 2018 STAFF

Staff Writers John Chavez

Editor-in-Chief David Jenkins Jr.

Liz Corcoles

Managing Editor Bianca Martinez

Jackelynn Martinez

News Editor Carmelita Islas Mendez

Jasmine Martinez

College Life Editor Carlos Martinez Jr.

Jaxx Mena

Opinion Editor Alison Hernandez

Karina Quiran-Juarez

Sports Editor Jah-Tosh Baruti

Carlos Ruiz

Production Manager Jocelyn Torralba

Malik Smith Cesar Villa

Corina Rosas Kinesiology major

“I think it’s one of those grey areas, is this more of a medical procedure? Is this more of an actual psychotherapy? Or is it more of a religious angle or conservative agenda? I’m against it [conversion therapy], however this is America and people are free to have their religious practices.” Phil Herrera Culinary Arts major

Journalism Association of Community Colleges Pacesetter Award 2009-2010

COLLEGE LIFE

Wednesday May 2, 2018

‘Fantasticks’ is not as fantastic as it seems Bianca Martinez Managing Editor @BiancaMart1955

he Cerritos College Theatre Department’s production of “The Fantasticks” proved several things; they own a stock in confetti, saved money on costumes and can carry a tune for the most part. However, they came up short in proving the most important aspect of a successful production and that was convincing the audience. A black box theater holds a lot of potential to create a convincing set design. Due to the lack of a physical stage, the set-up was reminiscent of the previous play, Anton Chekov’s “The Seagull.” The plain and simple setup consisting of a stage, bench, prop crates and a curtain didn’t display the appropriate amount of whimsy an audience member would expect when watching a musical. Strobe lighting is utilized throughout the entirety of the “Abduction Ballet,” which is about over a minute. The novelty of the strobe effect is fun for about the first 30 seconds before the audience becomes irritated.

COURTESY OF BRADLEY LOCK

Onstage: Cast members of “The Fantasticks” acting out a scene during one of their dress rehearsals. The production runs from April 27-28 and May 3-5.

Due to the lack of creativity, the production required the actors to hold up their end of the bargain and sell the illusion of the production. Unfortunately, such a feat was poorly executed and resulted in confusion for people to deduce what exact role of each player portrayed.

Another aspect that resulted in the lack of believe-ability, was the fact that the characters wore the same costume throughout the play, even though it was established through dialogue that some time had passed. Musicals can be a tricky performance to sell since it may not be to everyone’s taste, yet only

two of the actors could deliver a performance that is vital to a good musical, one knew how to sing beautifully and both sold their characters exceptionally well. Long Beach Community College student Kathryn Mata, who played Luisa, gave us a lovelorn, strange, quirky teenager who

could belt out vibrato like Snow White calling to blue birds. Manuel Delgado, who played a fossil thespian named Henry, gave a compelling performance due to special effects makeup, mannerisms and idiosyncrasies typical of an elderly man. Erick Guijarro, who played Luisa’s counterpart, Matt, had

some trouble in harmonizing with her and pretty much portrayed Rick Moranis’s role as Seymour Krelboin in the musical, “Little Shop of Horrors.” Maya Hasiba Ohayon, who played Matt’s mother, Hucklebee, sold her character perfectly well, even without a husky tinge to her voice which would have coincided with Hucklebee’s brash comments directed to her son. Randy Calcetas, as Luisa’s father, Bellomy, also gave a good, standard performance. Isaac Simons-Araya as Mortimer delivered in a comical death scene, where he could not do a Cockney accent. Simons-Araya’s minute long death demonstration scene, which was intentionally overkill, did not drag on and maintained slapstick humor throughout. Melissa Ongko, Mute, kept scene changes and prop delivery seamless as her role at essentially being a stage hand, amplifying the comedic element in the musical. El Gallo, played by Zachary Balagot, was convincing as the suave con-ster with occasional smoldering glances, commanding voice and the smooth sauntering strides he takes on-stage.

Bianca Bitches: It’s the final countdown, kick stress’ ass and pass with class Bianca Martinez Managing Editor @BiancaMart1955

adies and gentlemen and those in-between, it’s officially finals season. Before you hitchhike down to Mexico to start your life over, consider these tips to keep that stress level down. Time management Time management is always important when pursuing a life of academia. If you haven’t developed a system by now, I don’t know how the hell you haven’t spontaneously combusted yet due to overload. DON’T PROCRASTINATE Once your professor assigns

you homework, do it immediately no matter how long you have until deadline. The amount of stress you avoid while doing work when assigned saves you sleepless nights spent in full-blown panic mode. Avoid distractions Avoid binge-watching shows or movies when doing homework, projects or essays. Don’t expect a good grade on your work if you are too busy distracted by Jim Halpert, saying, “Bears. Beets. Battle Star Gallactica.” Michael Scott isn’t going to get an A on that essay for you.

Self care Self care is for everyone and is not just limited to face masks and bath bombs. Take a nap. Eat a healthy lunch. Do anything that helps you recharge. If you don’t recharge then you wind up becoming burned out in your academic endeavors. Eat breakfast It sounds cheesy and reminiscent of your high school days. Especially when you use to get that call or letter home saying to rest up and eat breakfast before taking your finals but breakfast is tried and true.

Breakfast gives you energy, necessary nourishment and kick starts your brain. Devote some time to studying Make sure you are constantly studying. Your brain tosses out information that it feels isn’t useful or worth remembering but if you work constantly to commit certain subjects to memory, your brain won’t clean house right away. Get a good night’s rest Devote your bed for sleep, studying or working on your laptop can hinder sleep.

Your bed should be associated with sleep not stress. By not doing homework in bed you are creating a relaxing environment for your body and mind. Stay motivated keep your eyes on the prize, we have about two weeks until we blow this popstand, don’t blow your grades Be loyal to academics Another helpful tip is not to party or go on late-night adventures before finals week. You can dance topless on a bar counter after you pass the class.

Future Falcons attend Senior Preview Day Carlos Martinez Jr. College Life Editor @carlsjrmtz

Jaxx Mena Staff Writer @ijackiemena

erritos College opened its doors to high school seniors as learned about the campus, its highlights and the perks of becoming Cerritos students during the annual Senior Preview Day. Senior Preview Day gave students from neighboring districts such as ABC Unified School District and Bellflower Unified School District a chance to tour around campus and acquiring more insight on the student life,

services and programs from the academic and athletic departments. In addition, students were able to canvas Falcon Square and visit booths of various clubs, courses and services offered on campus. During the event, students were invited to a welcome rally where they received free food from Hot Dog on a Stick and watched performances by Cerritos College’s music and dance departments. Pablo Guerrero and Gilbert Sandoval, seniors at Norwalk High School, were one of the many high school students who attended the event. “There’s a lot of opportunities here for high school students,”

Sandoval said, “a lot of good programs and it’s a nice campus.” “The programs are vigorous,” Guerrero said, “and that’s a benefit. They help you out in your college education and help you out with your major.” Sandoval expressed that he has an interest in the auto-shop and woodworking programs. Guerrero said that he plans on participating the STEM and robotics programs. Amna Jara, the student activities coordinator, said that the all-day-event was design for students to get motivation to continue their education after high school, regardless if they choose Cerritos College or another local community college. “It’s very exciting,” she said.

“It gives us [Cerritos College] an opportunity to showcase what we have.” She also expressed that of many of the Cerritos College students that are involved in clubs have attended the open-house event in their last final year of high school which gave them the motivation and the open mindedness of portraying an active role in campus life. “I’m not so worried that the crowd was less,” Jara added. “Even if they go on and still spread the word to their family, friends and neighbors, we are still making a huge impact. “ Angel Teutli, cosmetic major was one of the Cerritos College students that were showcasing the Behind the Scenes Wardrobe

CARLOS MARTINEZ JR. Future falcons: High school students from surrounding districts walk along Falcon Square to see club booths. Senior Preview Day was held on April 27.

and Makeup class on campus. “We got to inform students about things they can do in the class,” Teutli said. “Show them that they have free will on creations such as making a rose out of trash or using old age make-

up.” Teutli expressed that Senior Preview Day worked best students who still wonder about life after high school. “They know what they want to do now,” he said.

‘Avengers: Infinity War’ stands tall as fan favorite heroes fight Thanos Carlos Ruiz Staff Writer @thecarlosruiz

Movie Review Avengers: Infinity War Starring: Chris Hemsworth Director: The Russo brothers Rating:

he Marvel Cinematic Universe has finally brought an ending to a 10-year connection within the MCU films, which began in 2008 with

“Iron Man.” “Avengers: Infinity War”, Marvel’s most recent installment to its cinematic universe, undoubtedly deserves a 4/5 star rating because this movie embodied great artistry, had funny, thrilling, shocking and spinechilling moments. The buildup to this longawaited movie revolves around six infinity stones, that the movie’s villain Thanos is on a mission to acquire. Thanos, played by the actor Josh Brolin, brings an outstanding performance to the screen, one in which was not expected and holds this movie high with his infinity gauntlet.

“Avengers: Infinity War” included an abundant amount of your favorite superheroes on screen at once. This movie serves as a crossover introducing new heroes into the mix with the veteran heroes. It’s always nice to see new hero interactions you would’ve never imagined taking place on the big screen. “Infinity War” makes that dream come true for the Marvel fanatics. You may assume that with so many heroes and with so much action all happening at once, it would ruin the movie. On the contrary it worked well with the story of the movie.

The story ends on a must-see gasping moment, that was unexpected by those in the audience. It seemed to have an emotional impact on the audience throughout the runtime with certain events in the movie hitting home for some viewers. Although there were new interactions in the movie, it would’ve been nice to see longer interactions between some of the established superheroes. The interactions between some characters were great, but for others it seemed like the communication was too fast paced, for a viewer to intake correctly. For some moments of the movie, it seemed as if some were

even out of character, or were just not acting like their usual self. “Avengers: Infinity War” has you sitting for two hours and 29 minutes, that may rest well for some movie goers and not so much for others. Although the film runs for such a long time, it passes well with the storytelling the directors Anthony and Joe Russo provide. The Russo brothers brought a interesting and very different idea to what we normally expect from Marvel films. They will also direct the film’s sequel, which is set to release sometime next year in May.

“Avengers: Infinity War” set a box office record, grossing in $630 million worldwide, in the movie’s opening weekend alone. It is now the second highest grossing film of 2018 behind the MCU’s “Black Panther” which released in February. It’s safe to say the ending has everyone hungry for what’s next. It will truly have you at the edge of your seat, throwing unexpected moments at your eyes. Everyone in the world should witness the Avengers’ most tenacious battle yet. You may think you know, but you have no idea what “Avengers: Infinity War” has in store for you.

SPORTS

Wednesday May 2, 2018

Soccer star signs with LMU Jah-Tosh Baruti Sports Editor @press1800tosh

first team All-American soccer player for Cerritos College during the 2017-18 season, Itzel Ballesteros signed her national letter of intent on April 16 with Lincoln Memorial University, located in Tennessee. Ballesteros will be receiving a full-ride scholarship to the NCAA Division 2 school, to which she said she is “grateful.” The scholarship will cover the entire cost of tuition, plus dorm and meals for two years and she noted that her scholarship will continue to cover tuition until she attains her bachelors degree. A native of Huntington Park, CA, Ballesteros has been playing soccer since she was just threeyears-old The 5-foot-4 forward played in 47 career games (42 starts) for the Falcons throughout two seasons. Ballesteros started 22 games for the 2016-17 Falcons’ state championship team, helping them win their fifth state title in a row in just her rookie season. During the 2016-17 season she scored 22 goals, to go along with 15 assists. She was crowned Offensive Player of the Year in the South Coast Conference-South Division as a freshman. Ballesteros was also named to the second team All-West Region, All-Southern Region during her first year. She will be reunited with her Falcon teammate Maria Hernandez, she commented on the impact Hernandez had on her signing, “I think we both wanted to receive a good offer and once we realized we had achieved that

JAH-TOSH BARUTI

Former Falcon signs out of state: All-American soccer player, Itzel Ballesteros holds up her letter of intent to Lincoln Memorial University. She will now hang her cleats in Tennessee for two years.

from the same school, going together was a plus.” Ballesteros talked about Hernandez signing with the same school, she said, “She has been my best friend since I got here to Cerritos and I am so happy that I get to experience this with her. “We work really good together on the field and just having a piece of home with me makes it exciting.” Hernandez was named AllSouthern Region and she was a two-time first team All-South Coast Conference selection In her second year, Ballesteros lead her team to another postseason berth, while looking to secure a sixth straight title to catapult the team further into rarefied air. Ballesteros, in her final career game as a Falcon played in the Elite Eight against San Bernardi-

no College, where the defended champs lost 1-0 on the road. Ballesteros summed up her career being a Falcon athlete as her best soccer experience so far. “I grew so much as a player and a person. I was able to learn many different ways of how to play the game from the unique talent we had on the team. I think it prepared me very well and worked as a stepping stone to further my soccer career,” she elaborated. Ballesteros received offers mostly from out of state colleges, her offers included: Ottawa University (Arizona), York College (New York), Eastern Oregon, Western Oregon and several other programs. Most offered to pay her tuition. Ultimately, she chose LMU, citing her parents as her “biggest influence” in her decision.

“They always reminded me that all these years of hard work were paying off and a full ride

was something I couldn’t reject.” She said her coach, Ruben Gonzalez, “played a huge role” in her decision. “He was always looking out for me and we both explored the best possible decision. I thank all the coaching staff for always believing in me and opening doors for me.” For Ballesteros this will be her first time away from her family for an extended period of time. She talked about being away from family for two years, “The biggest challenge of playing will be not having my support system present with me. “My parents and sisters have never missed a game, so I think having to adjust to being alone will be a bit difficult for me.” Ballesteros ended with what she hopes to get out of this program, she said, “I have always been very shy and dependent on my parents so I hope this makes me grow as an individual and prepares me for what life has to offer.”

JAH-TOSH BARUTI

All-American baller: Ballesteros dribbles the ball down the field in a soccer match. She played for the Falcons from 2016-18, Ballesteros signed with Lincoln Memorial University on April 16.

49ers select a Former Falcon in NFL Draft Sports Editor @press1800tosh

Kent Hunter said, “Having a successful season was a great experience for me and the team as a whole. Men’s doubles: Kent Hunter and Victor Castro def. Mikey Vizcarra and Sam Hall, 8-3 Alex Prokopchuk and Marcos Paulo Silvestre def. Paul Bhatia and Pete Gibson, 8-2 Dario Rico-Altozano/ Kwangeun Lee def. Andres Anderson/Robert Kendall, 8-3 Men’s singles:

Kent Hunter def. Paul Bhatia, 6-2, 6-2 Victor Castro vs. Mikey Vizcarra, 6-3, 4-2, DNF Alex Prokopchuk vs. Pete Gibson, 6-4, 1-2, DNF Biel Roca Carreras vs. Sam Hall, 6-4, 1-1, DNF Dario Rico-Altozano def. Andres Anderson, 6-2, 6-4 Kwangeun Lee def. Robert Kendall, 6-5, DNF Women’s doubles: Lisa Suzuki/Kseniia Prokopchuk (Cerr) def. Sandra DeFrancescu/Maria Zimmerman, 8-1 Petra Such/Moa Lindstrom def. Carlee Ellis/Angelica Gagliano, 8-1

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARYL PETERSON

Champions again: The Cerritos College women’s tennis team won their second state title in three years on April 25.

Itzi Torres/Diviana Bravo def. Sharon Cao/Sakina Khawari, 8-0 Women’s doubles: Lisa Suzuki vs. Sandra DeFrancescu, 6-3, 0-1, DNF Petra Such vs. Maria Zimmerman, 5-5, DNF Kseniia Prokopchuk def. Angelica Gagliano, 6-0, 6-0 Moa Lindstrom vs. Carlee Ellis, 6-4, 3-0, DNF Itzi Torres def. Sakina Hhawari, 6-0, 6-1 Diviana Bravo vs. Sharon Cao, 6-1, 2-2, DNF Caldaron spoke about what’s next for both tennis teams going

Jah-Tosh Baruti Sports Editor @press1800tosh

he second round of the NBA playoffs started are currently taking place as teams look to advance to the Conference Finals.

Golden State Warriors versus New Orleans Pelicans

Jah-Tosh Baruti

Continued from Page 1

NBA playoff predictions round 2

Western Conference:

Tennis sweeps championships

First timers: The Cerritos College men’s tennis team won their first ever Dual State Championship on April 25.

SHMACKEM:

into next season, he said “Next year I’m hoping we can repeat with a couple of them championships. He elaborated on the men’s side saying, “We had many players returning and I think we could still be considered the favorites.” Caldaron also spoke on the women’s team, he said, “We are graduating five out of seven players and hopefully we’ll be able to reload for next year. “We definitely have hard work ahead of us and we need to continue to push as I know many teams will train that much harder to catch us.”

Former Falcons’ cornerback, D.J. Reed was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round (No. 142 pick overall) of the NFL Draft. The 5-foot-9 188 lbs football player previously played for Cerritos College during the 2015-16 season He played in 11 games for the Falcons, throughout those games he recorded 42 total tackles and two interceptions. Reed’s journey to the NFL includes red shirting at Fresno State in 2014, then playing for Cerritos College, after Reed’s stint with the Falcons, he played for Kansas State University for the 2017-18 season.

The Golden State Warriors with a fully healthy Stephen Curry are virtually unbeatable. The Warriors just got Stephen Curry back from an MCL sprain on May 1. Also, they have Kevin Durant. Game three will be played on May 5 Warriors win in a sweep (4-0) Houston Rockets versus Utah Jazz The Beard also know as James Harden, is set to be the leagues ‘MVP and he’s playing like it in the playoffs. With Chris Paul on his side, they’ll reach the Conference Finals, which will be the first time for Paul in his career. Game two will be played on May 1. Rockets will win series in a sweep.

The Golden State Warriors with a fully healthy Stephen Curry are virtually unbeatable. Jah-tosh baruti Sport Editor

Eastern Conference: Cleveland Cavaliers versu Toroto Raptors Cavs have the best player, but Raptors have the better team overall. Plus LeBron James looks exhausted out there on the court. Game two will be played on May 3. Raptors will win in six. Philadelphia 76ers versus Boston Celtics

CERRITOS FALCONS

Falcon in the NFL: D.J Reed is shown here with a Cerritos College practice jersey. He played for the Falcons in 2015-16 and was drafted in the 2108 NFL Draft

The Sixers have two young superstars in Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, plus a lot of talent around them, that should be enough to beat the Celtics, who are missing its two best players. Game two will be played on May 3 Sixers will win in six games.