Trump’s back, now what?
Andrew Pilani News Editor
As Donald Trump has secured his victory in the 2024 election against Kamala Harris, he brings with him a tidal wave of change – much of that force is aimed at reshaping immigration and education.
The question now is how will his second term in office affect education, and in our particular concern, higher education at Cerritos College.
Trump has stated several major changes that he aspires to make upon reassuming office – some of his plans regarding immigration and education will have massive ramifications for the college moving forward.
Immigration
According to CBS News, Trump plans to deport massive amounts of immigrants, end birthright citizenship for the children of immigrants living here illegally, suspend refugee admissions of people from the MIddle East and that he would deny entry to people based on their ideological beliefs.
This could spell disaster for Cerritos College – a Hispanicserving institution with nearly 70% of its student body being Latino.
The college’s UndocuFalcon Scholars Program, which “provides a safe space and support to Undocumented/Dreamer/ AB540 and mix-status students at Cerritos College. Its goal is to empower undocumented students and address their needs through resources and services that enhance and support their academic, career and personal journey,” according to its website, could be at risk.
In regards to immigration, Cerritos College President Dr. Jose Fierro, shared a statement from the state chancellor for all of the California Community Colleges:
“We do not participate in federal enforcement of national immigration regulations unless
Sports Leeya Rubio: one of one
compelled to by state or federal law.
“Our system does not capture information on undocumented students and our colleges will not release personally identifiable student information related to immigration status unless required by judicial order.”
The California Community Colleges website has a full statement about undocumented students on its website.
Fierro said, “This commitment extends to every department at Cerritos College, including our campus police, who are dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students.”
Education
Some of Trump’s plans for education, according to ABC News, for education include getting rid of the Department of Education, featuring prayer in public schools, making patriotism a central part of education, getting rid of diversity initiatives and cutting funding for schools or programs that promote “critical race theory, gender ideology or other inappropriate racial, sexual or political content.”
In regard to Trump’s plan for
the Department of Education, Fierro said, “It is still too early to comment on the Department of Education, as there is limited information available on this topic at the moment. We are monitoring the situation and reaching out to our partners to gain a better understanding of the potential consequences.”
As for the potential content restrictions on what will be promoted and taught in schools, Fierro said, “As the incoming federal administration’s policies unfold, we are closely monitoring discussions around public education.
“At Cerritos College, we draw strength from diverse perspectives and are proud of our commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment.
“We will continue to prioritize initiatives that provide equitable opportunities for all students and protect the value of diversity in higher education.”
Community colleges’ response
Fierro said, “We recognize the impact this election may have on our students and community, and we want to assure everyone that our mission at Cerritos College
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do you think about the election results?
Compiled by: Andrew Pilani
remains the same.”
“As we move forward, we must continue working together as a community to address challenges and seize opportunities. I encourage all students to stay focused on their academic and personal goals – completing your education opens doors to a brighter future and provides the tools to make a difference in our world. Cerritos College remains committed to supporting you every step of the way,” he added.
“... I wasn’t surprised that (Donald) Trump won... we’re going to probably see what they call (Project 2025) being enacted – it’s crazy.”
Political Science major Joshua Chazari
“I really agree with his (Donald Trump) policies... I didn’t feel moved by what she (Kamala Harris) was saying.”
Studio Arts major Fatima Ruiz
“I did my duty – California was blue, there was nothing we could do about it, it was just the rest of the states. It’s jarring to see the results...”
Computer Science major Zoey De Las Alas
“I guess I was kinda mad. Donald Trump – I don’t see him as a really good guy... It sucks because it feels like our rights will be gone...”
Arts major Jaymee Nava
The California Community Colleges Chancellor Sonya Christian, University of California President Dr. Michael Drake and California State University Chancellor Mildred Garcia also released a statement on Nov. 6 about the election.
“Following the presidential election results, we understand that there is a great deal of uncertainty and anxiety within California’s higher education community.
“The University of California, the California State University and the California Community Colleges remain steadfast and committed to our values of diversity and inclusivity.
“We are proud to welcome students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, and we will continue to support and protect all members of our communities.
“California represents a beacon of hope for so many, and we stand ready to support our state and its people as we all move forward together,” the statement reads.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LAURA BERNAL, PHOTO COURTESY OF GAGE SKIDMORE
An “I Voted” sticker in front of the American flag. President-elect Donald Trump won his second term on November 5, 2024.
Sexual battery investigation continues
Andrew Pilani News Editor
An alleged sexual battery occurred on the outside stairwell of Cerritos College’s Social Science building on Nov. 6 at approximately 11:30 a.m.
According to Brian Hill, the campus police captain, the victim claims that they were approached by a man who kissed her without permission.
The victim said that they didn’t know the suspect – the two of them had interacted for a few minutes and she was able to stave off the assailant.
This incident occurred in a public area and there were other people nearby, but no one else was close when it happened.
Hill said, “I’m not discounting anything from anyone’s end – the victim is truly a victim, she did not know the subject.”
He also said that, within his two years being at the college, he doesn’t recall anything like this happening.
As a response to this incident, the victim will have police escorts accompany her – Hill noted that anyone can call the campus police and ask for escorts on campus if needed.
Hill said the alleged suspect was identified and was cooperating with police as of Nov. 13.
Talon Marks reached out to Hill for an update on the situation, but has not heard back from him.
Pacheco reelected to Board of Trustees
Mariana Pacheco will retain her seat as a trustee on the Cerritos College Board of Trustees after defeating former trustee Martha Camacho Rodriguez. She will retain her seat in Cerritos Community College Area 1.
The board of trustees is a “policymaking board that ensures the College’s educational mission is achieved,” according to its resource manual.
“It’s important that they (the students) let us know their needs and how we can help them to be successful – that, to me, would be important for the students to know,” Mariana said.
Mariana was first elected to the board in 2020 – she said she
wanted to run for office after the pandemic started because she thought about the students at the adult school she was the nursing director for and wanted to help the students at Cerritos College as well.
She said that, since she’s been elected, the Falcon’s Nest opened, she’s worked to increase graduation rates, helped with Cerritos Complete and worked to make sure it was safe for students to come back to campus after the pandemic while working to make sure the faculty felt comfortable as well. – she says that student housing is the next project.
During this election, Mariana received endorsements from Cerritos College faculty, her fellow board members, Downey City Council members, The Downey
Patriot and the Downey Unified School District School Board.
Mariana is a registered nurse and spent approximately 35 years working for LA County before retiring. She obtained her position as nursing director for the The Downey Adult School Career and Education Center at the insistence of the school.
As a side note, Mariana’s daughter is California Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco.
Three of the other Board of Trustees seats in areas 2, 4 and 6 were also up for reelection, These other board elections were canceled as no one challenged the incumbents in those seats.
Cerritos College samples the military diet
Isaac Cordon Staff Writer
The Cerritos College’s Veterans Resource Center held its MRE, or Meal, Ready-to-Eat, tasting event on Nov. 5, to introduce people to the VRC and the food that veterans would use during their time in service.
MREs are self-contained food sources for people in the military to eat when they are deployed and will not have access to other food sources around them.
“I’ve been so used to eating the MREs and stuff when I was in, of course,” Andy Cervantes said, who is an eight-year military veteran who volunteered at this event.
“It’s just, a new way to get people who are not aware about the food of what we eat. It’s an opportunity to take a look inside and see what we do in a sense – or just like some of the basic things that we have occasionally done before,” Cervantes finished.
Another volunteer for this event and military veteran, Adrian Gutierrez, added on, “It is pretty much promoting the (student veterans) club and also getting people to know that we’re friendly and we’re not just mean ol’ people.”
The MRE packaging was on
Volunteers at the Veterans Resource Center gathering around samples during the MRE tasting event on Nov. 5, 2024.
display alongside another table that had samples of the food that the military would eat.
Some of these samples were beef stew, stir fry, chicken barbecue and beef tacos.
Andrea Wittig, the director, office of the president, trustee services, government relations & strategic initiatives, was at the event and tasted a sample of the barbecue chicken.
“It was surprisingly good… it tasted better than some of the fast food I’ve eaten before,” Wittig said.
Cerritos College President Dr. Jose Fierro, came down to the center to also partake in the event and try out the bread with the
beef taco sample.
“There are different flavors. There are some that are better than others, but it’s good,” Fierro said.
There was a variety of reactions to the tasting of the MRE samples.
“It’s a mixture you get a reaction of ‘oh you know, it’s actually good,’ Another reaction was like, ‘oh I kind of wish it tastes better’ but that’s how it is,” Cervantes said.
Cervantes continued to relate the food to how it is in the military, “it’s really a hit and miss on the food – for example, when it came to the food, the menus that we wanted were first come, first serve.”
Campus life
Get involved in upcoming events on campus
Falcon’s Nest Open House and Art Exhibit
As part of its Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month events, the Falcon’s Nest will host an open house next to the VRC to spread awareness about the basic needs services it provides to people on campus. Attendees will also be able to experience the interactive “Out of the Shadows Art Exhibit.”
Nov. 21, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Dance Concert
The Cerritos College Dance Department is hosting its Fall 2024 Dance Concert in the Performing Arts Center! Ticket prices range from $15 to $20.
For more info, scan the QR code below:
Nov. 21 - 23, 8 p.m. -10 p.m.
Blood Drive
The Red Cross is hosting a blood drive in the Cerritos College’s Student Center. Nov. 20-21, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank will distribute up to 40 pounds of food per person at Cerritos College’s parking lot 1 while supplies last.
Nov. 27, 9 a.m.
Gutierrez hoped that this event opened up peoples’ minds to the VRC.
“I feel like a lot of people are kind of shy and scared of like, they hear military veterans, or anything related, and they just feel like it’s restricted to those people.
“We’re just people, we’re just students, we’re just like everybody else. We just had a little different adventure and that’s it – we want to share that,” he stated.
This was part of a series of events hosted by the VRC as part of its Veterans Week celebrations which also featured a military ball.
Santa’s Village
Cerritos College is hosting a free Santa’s Village event for the community in its Fine Arts building.
All are welcome to come and take free photos with Santa and Franco the Falcon. There will also be face painting, arts and crafts, games, a food truck and sweet treats.
Dec. 7, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
a
ISAAC CORDON
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ANDREW PILANI, PHOTO COURTESY OF CERRITOS COLLEGE
The Cheryl A. Epple Board Room at Cerritos College on Nov. 15, 2024. Mariana Pacheco won her 2024 reelection race.
Andrew Pilani News Editor
Feline good in Long Beach
Adrienne Fajardo Community Editor
Just off of Atlantic Ave. in Long Beach awaits an oasis for all cat lovers.
Feline Good Social Club is a cat lounge that “provides a mutually-beneficial social interaction opportunity between humans and cats” all while finding permanent homes for the cats.
It all started with CFO Pam Leslie, who has dedicated over 20 years of her life to rescuing cats.
What sparked Leslie’s passion to open FGSC was an experience she had at a shelter.
“When I was in my 40s I visited a shelter and they had cats in small metal cages and they had just cleaned the cages so they were wet.. and the cats were just sitting in there all wet and I couldn’t believe it.”
Shortly after, she joined a kitten rescue group and eventually moved on to start her own group and after years of rescuing, finally, in 2019 Feline Good Social Club was born .
There are about 50 cats in the whole lounge, all of which are adoptable.
The lounge provides many cat lovers an opportunity to find their forever pet but that is not the only reason people choose to visit.
“What’s great about this place is you get to pet the cats, you get to see if there’s a connection between you and them and some people come in here because they can’t have a cat where they live,” she said.
of the effects it has on their friendliness and confidence.
They are partners with Long Beach Felines Cat Rescue, all of the cats in the lounge belong to them so they bring them in and go through the adoption process with interested adoptees.
Every cat at the lounge gets to live there until they are adopted, no matter how long it takes with the longest being over 1,000 days.
The lounge is filled with volunteers who help with day to day tasks such cleaning up after the cats, feeding them and providing assistance to guests who visit the lounge.
It’s very clean, there is a whole room designated for the litter boxes, a room for shy cats who are still getting used to being around humans and other cats.
“We also get a lot of travelers that come in just because they miss their cats at home, there’s all kinds of reasons that people visit us.”
All of the cats are freeroaming, which is very important at FGSC because
There is art painted all over the walls done by local artists along with a cat tree made specifically for FGSC.
“We are always looking for donations, even just showing up to hang out because it helps the cats to be more friendly and social, which makes them easily adoptable.” said Leslie.
South Gate bakery reopens after crash
Jonathan Diaz Co-Sports Editor
Evelyn’s Bakery located on the intersection of Tweedy Blvd and Otis St. in South Gate has reopened after a car accident damaged the building.
Evelyn’s bakery is owned by a mother daughter duo, Evelyn Vasquez (daughter) and Patty Vaquez (mother) who purchased the building on Tweedy Blvd formerly known as LULU’s bakery back in March 2024 but was closed for two months and was back in business in June 2024 after the annual Tweedy Blvd. fair.
“We were looking to buy a bakery a couple years back when I was making cakes in 2020” stated Evelyn.
Evelyn and Patty Vasquez had their grand opening in their new South Gate location on Saturday Oct 5. However on Oct. 9 at 4 p.m. , just days after the grand opening, the bakery experienced a turn of events when a two-car collision happened on the intersection of Otis St. and Tweedy Blvd resulting in one of the cars slamming into the bakery.
“From the Police report it seems like one of the cars ran a red light while the other one was turning,” said Evelyn Vasquez.
The accident caused the
entire left side of the store to be completely destroyed with the roof of the bakery even caving into the store
Not only did this accident destroy the entrance of the bakery, but Vasquez’s mother suffered in this accident as well.
According to her daughter, Vasquez was pushed back while standing right by the food preparator, when the food preparator hit her in the stomach that resulted in knocking her unconscious.
“It was really scary and I was more worried about my mom in the moment than after I knew she was okay and that everything was a really bad scare. I was just talking about the bakery,” said Vasquez.
But even with the building’s entrance being destroyed and her mother suffering injuries, the fear didn’t stop the dedicated duo as they opened up shop just two days later on Oct. 11.
“It’s been very stressful to be honest” Evelyn said when asked about reopening after the accident.
“Everybody says that it’s not a big deal and that you could easily rebuild.”
She continued, “They don’t realize that it’s not just about rebuilding it’s about all the time we put into the business, all the money we invested.”
The Bakery is boarded up but still open to the public.
Pixel posing for photo at Feline Good Social Club on Nov.17, 2024.
ADRIENNE FAJARDO
Somebody give Tyler a Grammy right now
“CHROMAKOPIA” is an amazing album. It’s raw, vulnerable and real. The project is a solid 10 out of 10 from beginning to the end. It’s a very well composed album.
Tyler The Creator released his highly anticipated 8th studio album called “CHROMAKOPIA” on Monday, Oct. 28. CHROMAKOPIA is fully written, produced and arranged by Tyler, The Creator.
“CHROMAKOPIA” is an amazing album. It’s raw, vulnerable and real. The project is a solid 10 out of 10 from beginning to the end. It’s a very well composed album.
The 14-track album features many artists like Daniel Caesar, Teezo Touchdown, ScHoolboy Q, Doechii, Glorilla and Lil Wayne.
The album opens with the first single from the album “St. Chroma” which was teased on his instagram on Oct. 16 to introduce the new project.
“St. Chroma” is a hard hitting song that gives you the anticipation for the rest of the album. The intro transitions into the second track “Rah Tah Tah.”
The second track starts off very aggressive and chaotic but as an avid listener of Tyler’s music it wasn’t very shocking to hear. Towards the end of the song he talks about how when he was younger he would get approached and “pressed” by people and how he’s paranoid now when interacting with his fans which transitions into the third track “NOID”.
“NOID” perfectly explains how Tyler feels when interacting with his fans and how people have parasocial relationships with celebrities or public figures.
Towards the middle of the album, with track 5 “Hey Jane” he explains how he’s afraid of his significant other having a child and the complications that will come with that both from his point of view and his significant other. “Hey Jane” is also
‘The Healers’ perform intimate blues show
The Downey Arts Coalitions hosted an intimate blues concert from the band The Healers at Epic Live!, a bar and restaurant located in Downtown Downey on Nov. 10 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The performance was opened by the Mike Malone and Friends Vibe Combo featuring Mike Malone on the vibraphone, Ed Mann on the congos, Dave Deforest on the upright bass and JR Lozano on drums.
The headliners of the show were The Healers.
The band is a collection of talented musicians including leader of the band, Chef Denis Depoitre on harmonica, bassist John Bazz, from The Blasters, JR Lozano from Los Lobos on the drums, Tommy Eliff from the Mighty Mojo Prophets providing vocals and Joe Conde from Abby Girl on electric guitar.
The Healers’ performance was dedicated to Henry Caravajal, their late guitarist who died two weeks prior.
a New York based healthcare company that provides healthcare services that are abortion related.
CHROMAKOPIA is probably one of Tyler’s most vulnerable projects to date. Throughout the project, he has very
intricate moments where he speaks on his childhood, relationships and issues with his father.
With track 10, “Tomorrow” he explains how he’s getting older and how his peers and close friends are all having children and getting married. Meanwhile, he hasn’t made any major movements in his life like having children or getting married.
“My brodie had another baby, that’s like number two. My homegirl, her knot tied, she like thirty-two. They sharin’ pictures of this moment, shit is really cute And all I got is photos of my ‘Rari and some silly suits. Mhm, will I flip the switch and finally settle down?”
Tyler The Creator did an amazing job of depicting what his life has been like since being famous and how that has affected his personal life.
In track 12, “Like Him” he speaks on his issues about his father, as he has before on previous albums like “Wolf”. In the intro of the song, his mother talks about how Tyler looks like his father.
Tyler also speaks on how he doesn’t know who his father is and not having a good relationship.
“Mama, I’m chasing a ghost I don’t know who he is. Mama, I’m chasing a ghost I don’t know where he is. Mama, I’m chasing a ghost. Do I look like him?”
This is his first initial album release since the release of his deluxe album “CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST: The Estate Sale” in 2023.
The band was lead by harmonica player Chef Denis Depoitre, who fell in love with the blues in 1996 after hearing William Black play on KJazz radio.
He explained the importance of keeping blues music alive as it was a long lasting genre.
“It’s important, because when you listen, it’s very upbeat all the time, and everything is based on it anyway…I mean, anybody from age to one to 100 or whatever, is going to be moved by [it], and it’s gotta stay alive,” Depoitre said.
Depoitre said, “We started the band because we were jamming together, and we knew each other for quite a while, and we decided to create the band, The Healers.”
Eliff said, “I was never into any other kind of music. I grew up in Compton, Long Beach so I knew all the oldies. You know all the old cholos, they all know Jimmy Reed…when I got old enough to
Both bands were a collection of artists who took time away from their main groups to perform with each other.
10, 2024.
put something together, it was always blues, always blues.”
The band was met with a packed house of blues enjoyers who would rise from their seats throughout the show to leave a tip in the band’s jar or get up to dance with their partner.
Andrea Serna, an attendee of the event, said, “Well, you know, Mike Malone is just magnificent on the vibraphones. If you’ve never heard him, you’re in for a real treat tonight. And so these guys are just really professional
musicians… it’s just nice to be with real music people.”
“I started when I was 13. I was a drummer for a long time and then I switched over to keyboards,” Malone who has been playing for 50 years, said. “That’s mostly what I do now is play keyboards and then during COVID, I got that set of vibes and just had a ton of fun playing them and put together a band. Normally, the band that I do the vibes with is called Alias Smith and Malone.”
The event was hosted by
Alistair Hunter and Pat Gil from the Downey Arts Coalition.
Any profits made from the concert were donated to the DAC’s college scholarship program that provides scholarships for Downey, Warren and Colombus High School.
The Downey Arts Coalition is a non-profit organization that works to bring the arts to the community through art exhibits, festivals, music, scholarships and more.
Laura Bernal Editor in Chief
Shaniah Campbell A & E Editor
Tyler The Creator releases his eighth studio album CHROMAKOPIA” on Oct. 28, 2024.
COLUMBIA RECORDS
LAURA BERNAL
Blues band, The Healers perform at Epic Live! in Downey on Nov.
Music is political
Music has always been a reflection of the political state of the world and constantly draws inspiration from or outright calls out injustices. So, in light of the recent election, if we have nothing else to look forward to, at least we have music, not only for comfort but as a historical marker of what came from this time.
Let’s break down how music has reflected different political issues.
Race:
Music as we know it today would not exist without the work of so many artists who documented their experiences with systemic powers and oppression.
When talking about modern examples of political music about racism, there is a topic that spreads across decades, police brutality. From NWA’s “Fuck tha Police,” “Changes” by Tupac, “This is America” by Childish Gambino, and of course “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar, these songs are evidence as to how long the problem has lasted. This is what I mean when I say that music is a historical marker.
War:
There have been many songs that criticize the act of war.
From Bob Marley’s “One Love” to “Imagine” by John Lennon, artists have been advocating for peace for a long time.
There’s also the opposite end where artists call for a revolution such as “P.L.U.C.K.” by System of a Down about the Armenian genocide.
“Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. The song was in response to the murder of four Kent University students that were killed by the National Guard during an anti-war rally on campus. The rally was a protest against the United States’ involvement in the Vietnam War..
History repeats itself.
Sexism:
Let’s talk about the Riot Grrrl movement. In the ‘90s, we saw the emergence of girl punk bands that took feminism and politics head on in their music.
The formation of these bands was a direct response to the punk music scene being male dominated and not providing a space for women to express their anger and rage.
With songs like “White Boy” by Bikini Kill that calls out men who excuse rape as the song literally opens with “I don’t think it’s a problem ‘cause most of the girls ask for it. Uhhuh,howdo theyaskforit?The way they act, the way they— I, I can’t say they
way they dress because that’s their own personal choice. But some dumb hoes, slut rocker bitches walking down the street, they’re asking for it. They may deny it, but it’s true.”
From owning your sexuality, to not steering away from their emotions and personal experiences, despite backlash or being called a “cry baby,” women are held to a higher standard and have higher expectations just for being a woman.
LGBT+ Community:
The reality is that the general public is much more accepting of LGBT+ artists now then they were 30 years ago. The fact that Chappell Roan can get on stage and openly sing about being queer, is a political statement, even if that’s not her intention. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come in the acceptance of the community.
The next time you hear someone complaining about artists talking about politics on stage or in their music remember that music is political and can be a historical record.
Politics affect us all and music brings people together so if music can combine the two for a cause that is a good thing and not something we should want to end.
the UNDER RATED
Madeline Kelson While I Was Away
The debut album from this country artist gained a lot of traction on tiktok for the song “The Way I Do,” a love song for her partner.
The long awaited album from this artist after five years, did not disappoint.
Medium Build Country
Another country indie album for the fall vibes. The album reflects on the artist’s push and pull between his faith and identity.
Durand Jones & The Indications Private Space
If you don’t know who this group is, you’re doing yourself a disservice. From “Witchoo” to “The Way I Do,” the album delivers hit after hit of funk and soul tracks.
System of a Down Steal This Album
A classic album calling out the destructiveness of capitalism. With “Chic-N-Stu” that confronts overconsumption and “A.D.D.” about the delusion of the American Dream
Erykah Badu Mama’s Gun
This album is a classic R&B album from the 2000’s. With the hit single “Didn’t Cha Know,” you’ll be inspired to take deep dive into yourself.
The Paper starring Michael Keaton
With star-studded cast featuring Glenn Close, Robert Duvall and Marisa Tomei, this 1994 movie brings you into the life of a journalist and the addictive nature of the job.
Down with the System by Serj Tankian
A memoir written by the lead singer of System of a Down and his venture into music and activism.
Laura Bernal Editor in Chief
Protestors playing music at the Occupation of Trafalgar Square on April 2, 2011 in protest of UK budget cuts.
GARY KNIGHT
NFL cut the double standard
The NFL needs to cut the bullshit. There is a clear double standard occurring with their reaction to Nick Bosa’s appearance on the field – crashing an interview and pointing to his Make America Great Again hat.
Bosa didn’t even have the guts to stand ten toes down on his stance. He stoodd at the podium and dodged the question.
He knows what he did was a clear violation of the NFL rule that prohibits players from displaying personal messages on the field and in locker room interviews– and the NFL knows that, too.
So why did they hold back on announcing their decision on whether or not to punish him and how? Is it fear of backlash or is it outright racism?
In 2016, former San Francisco 49ers quarterback, Colin Kaepernick took a knee during the national anthem as a form of protest against the ongoing police brutality committed against the black community.
He was essentially blacklisted from playing after making the decision to leave the 49ers and having no team reaching out to sign him.
Roger Goodell, NFL commissioner, responded by claiming the action was unpatriotic.
He said, “I support our players when they
want to see change in society... On the other hand, we believe very strongly in patriotism in the N.F.L. I personally believe very strongly in that.”
What exactly was unpatriotic for Kaepernick to stand up for the rights and protection of Black Americans?
Goodell has since backpedaled and said he “should have listened sooner.”
Artists are not responsible for your children
With the spotlight that many rising artists are in, we are seeing major discussions about how certain albums and tours are not made for young children.
One particular artist who seems to have some recent backlash amongst her ongoing tour is Sabrina Carpenter.
With her ongoing tour, there are many people online concerned on how appropriate she may really be for children. However, she is not responsible for what young children are listening to.
Many lyrics off her newest album, ‘Short n’ Sweet’ include
lyrics that have a part of the internet thrown for a loop, as well as the choreography and set design of her tour.
A major talking point regarding is her choreography during the outro for her song ‘Bed Chem,’ where curtains fall leaving shadows of herself and a male dancer in a sexually suggestive position.
To many fans, it is a highly anticipated and humorous moment on tour, along with her “juno position.”
The “juno position” refers to a section in her song ‘Juno,’ where she sings, “Wanna try out some
Goodell said, “And that’s where we should have been in there with them, understanding and figuring out what we can do as the NFL.”
Sure, that’s a great statement to make, but the NFL’s actions differ. If they cared about systemic racism and what they can do, they would not tolerate racism at all and they certainly would not wait more than two weeks, after the
election, to fine a man donning a hat that is synonymous with racism.
The NFL’s fine for Bosa is nothing more than a slap on the wrist as it is a mere $11,255. I’m sure that’s likely to have the defensive end with a $170 million dollar contract shaking in his Louboutin sneakers.
On Nov. 6, after the election, and in response to the possible fine, Bosa said, “Yeah, it was well worth it. I don’t think my position on speaking about it is going to change. Clearly the nation spoke and we got what we got.”
To be honest, I don’t think the NFL cares at all. If we allow room for hate speech, that hate will spread and grow. So does the NFL stand for doing what is right –or whatever is right for their image at the time?
The NFL needs to do better. There should be zero tolerance for racism, violence and hate speech in the league on and off the field.
Compiled by: Alejandra Guerra and Natalie Gonzalez Thanksgiving or Christmas?
“I love Thanksgiving, I love eating so much. Honestly, seeing all the Christmas stuff is cute and all but I love Thanksgiving.”
Leslie Hernandez
Computer Science major
freaky positions? / Have you ever tried this one?”
After singing that line, she drops into a sex position.
People have taken a point to bring up the fact that she is an ex disney star, as if it should automatically force her to be more kid-friendly.
“I’m 900 inappropriate jokes away from being a Disney actor, but people still see me that way,” Carpenter said in an interview with Variety.
She evolved and grew as an artist as many other artists do, she should not have to “tone herself down” for her younger audience.
“I don’t like when Christmas comes too early, so I like to enjoy fall first and I really like Thanksgiving.”
Sergio Hernandez
Biology major
“I'm definitely letting Thanksgiving pass by first. I’m a really big fan of autumn.”
Mariana Castillo
Psychology major
“I definitely love Thanksgiving because you get to wear orange and brown still, things you can still wear on Halloween."
Alorah Alarcon
Psychology major
before they
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY DERRICK TELIX
Melanie Salguero Opinion Editor
Sabrina Carpenter faces criticism online
Michael Delgado Contributor
Leeya Rubio is the setter for the Cerritos College volleyball team, and is essentially, in basketball terms, the point guard on the court.
Her first season at Cerritos ended with being selected second at the All-South Coast Conference, but let’s go back to where it all started.
The origin story of Leeya’s volleyball career began when she was in 6th grade, after being inspired to play because of her two older sisters Lannette and Lupita.
“I grew up watching my sisters play, me and my family were always at their games, and I would go to their club games, I was always in the environment and it wasn’t really any other sport for me it was just volleyball,” Rubio said.
Leeya played for a volleyball club called Commerce Crush around this time, and this was the beginning of her growing stage in volleyball.
“Definitely learned resiliency, confidence, friendship, and attitude. My first year, my attitude was terrible. I didn’t really know how to handle my emotions. I had my coaches and teammates tell me that it’s not the best look on players.”
“It’s really easy to lose your shit completely because as soon as something doesn’t go your way,
SPORTS RECAP
you just wanna break out and do what you want but in this case you really can’t because one person can affect so much,” Rubio said.
After her days in Commerce were finished Leeya began her tenure in Shurr High School where she played on the varsity team as a freshman.
She faced some challenges at Shurr with one of them switching from a setter to a libero and adjusting to a higher competitive level.
She was able to overcome those obstacles as she found great success in high school, earning 2nd team honors as a freshman and was named 1st Team allleague as a senior and junior.
Going into college, she wasn’t sure if she wanted to continue playing but after her coaches in High School advised her to continue her volleyball career, she committed to Cerritos College.
It was an up and down season during her freshman year in Cerritos.
During the indoor season, the team finished 13-9 and made the playoffs but where Leeya struggled the most was transitioning from indoor to beach volleyball.
“Conditioning was for sure a problem but it wasn’t even the main thing, I did play beach in high school with friends but the competition wasn’t as strong as it is here, we were playing people who have been playing beach for years so they have experience and the vision on the court and it was
WOMENS VOLLEYBALL NOV. 15
Who are the NFL rookies of the year
Writer
The NFL is past the mid-way point of the season and it's time to look at what rookies will win the offensive and defensive rookie of the year awards.
The rookies who have stood out so far this season are quarterback for the Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels and edge rusher for the Los Angeles Rams, Jared Verse.
According to Fox Sports, both players are favored to win these awards.
Daniels was selected 2nd overall in the 2024 NFL draft and he has paid back their investment thus far..
While Daniels is coming off back-to-back losses against the Philadelphia Eagles on Nov. 14,
so much easier for them,” Rubio said.
When
Leeya is off the court, she is a family person, the majority of her time away from the sport is spent with her family which is something she always cherishes.
"I would say I was a very fortunate child, I didn’t grow up in the biggest house ever but what I did have was way more than enough for me and my family,” Rubio said.
She added, “Everything was fine, my mom was a stay at home mom so I spent a lot of time with her and if I wasn’t with her I was with my sisters, and my dad worked a lot but he would always try to make as much time as he could for him and his family.”
She’s very close with both her parents, Leonard and Rosie Rubio as she is able to be open and vulnerable with them no matter the situation.
Leeya said her mother, Rosie,
MENS SOCCER NOV. 14
2024 and the Pittsburgh Steelers on Nov. 10 2024, he still has a good resume to win the offensive rookie of the year award.
The amount of impact Daniels has had on the Commanders is a huge reason why he is heavily favored to win the award.
This was evident in his break out perfromance against the Bengals Sep.23 where he threw for 254 yards 3 total touchdowns.
The Commanders have a current record of 7-4 and are placed 7th in the NFC playoff seeding as of week 11.
Daniels has brought Washington from a bottom-tier offense to a top tier as they are ranked third in expected points added per passing play, while last year they ranked 27th EPA per passing play according to pro.nfl. com.
To understand why EPA is important I will refer to Pro Football Focus explanation.
Their explanation is that "EPA is a measure of success which defines the value of each play by the effect it has on the offense's likelihood to score."
Daniels is leading rookie quarterbacks in passing yards and is 14th among all quarterbacks while also being 11th in quarterback rating according to pro.nfl.com as of Nov. 18, 2024.
taught her so much throughout her life and continues to do so everyday.
“She allows me to be vulnerable and continues to be such a blessing in my life, of course she has her weaknesses but she is the strongest woman I know and no one can do it like she can,” Rubio said.
When it comes to her dad, Leonard, she views him as an inspiration, mentor, and most importantly, her best friend.
“He’s my best friend, he’s taught me so much, I’m very open with him and I feel like I could talk to him about anything, I have a very close relationship with my dad and it’s something I cherish a lot, If I have any trouble with anything or need advice he’s right there and will listen to anything I have to say,” Rubio said. What made this relationship as strong as it is, was the most challenging obstacle thrown at her and her family, was her father’s liver transplant operation when Leeya was only 10 years old.
“I was there and I saw it all, I saw all the trials and tribulations
Since the retirement of Rams 8× first-team all-pro, defensive lineman Aaron Donald, fans wondered how good this Rams defense would be without him.
The Rams addressed this issue by drafting Verse in the first round at pick 19 of the 2024 NFL draft.
While no player can really replace Donald due to how big of a game-wrecker he was, Verse is still keeping this Rams pass rush strong.
LA leads the league in quarterback pressure rate with 41.9% and is ranked 5th in total quarterback pressures with 145 according to pro.nfl.com.
Verse is about 34% of those pressures with 50 pressures on the season after the victory against the New England Patriots.
He is now ranked 4th in quarterback pressures in the league throughout week 11 according to pro.nfl.com.
Verse also ranked 12th in pass rush win rate among NFL edge rushers as of Nov. 12, according to ESPN.
Pass rush win rate is a metric that shows how much a pass rusher can beat their block according to ESPN.
That is the highest win rate compared to all 2024 rookie edge rushers.
Next Gen Stats tweeted that
Leeya Rubio: ne of ne
and I think for him to stay strong and push through that every single day was hard on me but it just showed me what type of person he was.”
“It was difficult seeing my dad like that because it was one of his closest moments to not being here anymore, but he’s strong, he’s healthy, and he’s here now,” said Rubio.
As Leeya’s time at Cerritos is nearing an end, she still has questions about her future in volleyball. She is exploring her options and is considering a future as a social worker for
God said it wasn't my time.
substance abuse.
Leeya on how she would like to be seen, said: “Leeya Rubio…. I am someone who is for one, who doesn’t see the world as this big, dangerous evil place, I kinda see it as the more positive side of things. Obviously she is very hard working, she doesn’t take things for granted, she takes any and every opportunity she can get and… she has God by her side.”
FOOTBALL NOV. 16
Verse is top three in pressure rate among rookies since 2018 being in company with Micah Parsons '21, Josh Hines-Allen '19, Nick Bosa '19 and Will Anderson Jr. '23.
Verse ranked second in sacks among rookies from this 2024 draft class with four and a half, right behind his teammate Braden Fiske who has five.
Both Daniels and Verse are having outstanding rookie years having direct impact on their teams results, expect to see them walk the stage this Febuary.
Leeya Rubio's Father Leonard Rubio
Isaac Cordon Staff
STORY IMAGE BY MICHAEL DELGADO
MUHAMMAD HADI
Jayden Daniels drops back to pass against the Dolphins in his first preseason game Aug. 17.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY PEYTON OLIVEIRA
A graphic showing the stats of Jayden Dnaiels and Jared Verse have 11 weeks into their careers
Cerritos Falcons swept in conference by Long Beach
Jonathan Diaz Co-Sports Editor
Isaac
Cordon Staff Writer
The Falcons volleyball team falls against conference rivals Long Beach City College Vikings by a score of 3 sets to 0.
The Falcons came into this game with an undefeated conference record of 6-0 while the Vikings came in with a conference record of 5-1 with the only loss being from the Falcons on Oct 16.
This game decided who the champion of the South Coast Conference.
The tension was at an all-time high with the Vikings wanting their revenge and for the Falcons to run away with the conference without a loss.
The game was played in a very noisy environment and when Long Beach City put the first point of the game on the board the crowd roared.
Cerritos head coach, Kari Hemmerling, spoke on the noise from the Vikings fans, “Hopefully once we go to the playoffs we understand this is a playoff environment and if we want to win the big moment it will be like this.”
The Falcons seemed to struggle with the crowd noise, “A
lot of us were ready for it, but I think it was the crowd that caught us off guard,” Middle Blocker for Cerritos, Brisa Cortez said.
“Even though we were expecting the crowd to be big we weren’t expecting it to be that loud so we just didn’t prepare for that,” Cortez finished.
Libero/Defensive Specialist, Priscilla Castillo, added to this issue “I think it was the environment. We were more nervous than we were last time we played them.”
“We weren’t doing good under pressure in our home we had a lot of supporters that’s what got us hyped up,” Castillo continued.
The Vikings started the game hot with a 10-4 lead in the first set.
The Falcons started to close the gap with the score near the tail end being 20-16, but they couldn’t finish strong losing the set 25 to 19.
This was a recurring theme throughout the three sets played.
Sophomore setter, Leeya Rubio said, “We didn’t do a great job executing.”
She later stated, “Obviously we did really good. We could’ve done a better job serving and running a better offense on my part.”
During one of the Falcons timeouts, Hemmerling said to her players that Long Beach wasn’t going to “give them points.”
That was a big difference from this match compared to the
last one as the Vikings weren’t committing a high amount of errors.
The Falcons were not able to capitalize on errors like before and had to go get points on offense.
“They just came in stronger,” Rubio said referring to the Vikings, “They knew what we had, they were prepared for what we were going to bring. They were the better team tonight.”
Rubio shared her final comments on how the team will try to improve heading into their next game. She said, “Definitely blocking, staying disciplined making sure we are in our spots… we were playing a little hectic as long as we just calm it down we will be fine.”
The Falcons bounced back with a win against Los Angeles Harbor college with a 3-0 sweep sharing the conference with rivals Long Beach City College.
The Falcons ended the regular season with a more improved record of 18-3 and a conference record of 7-1 compared to last season's record of 13-9 and a conference record of 8-8.
Now the Cerritos college Falcons are looking to improve their run into the playoffs after losing to the first round last season.
The Falcons start their run in the playoffs on Saturday November 23.
Cerritos Falcons beats Rio Hondo Roadrunners
Duran Ventura
Staff Writer
In the South Coast Conference Tournament, the Cerritos College Falcons defeated the Rio Hondo Roadrunners 4-3 on penalty kicks.
The last time both teams met, the Falcons won convincingly 5-1, but in a tournament it’s a whole different story.
At the start of the game, both teams looked for the opening goal with the Falcons getting the better chances.
Ariana Rivera made well timed runs on the left wing to get the ball in to the box for her teammates.
Lissette Saucedo ran the right wing and beat three Roadrunner defenders to break in to the box but was pulled down.
Saucedo said, “I don’t know, they just couldn’t handle the whole body, I’m sorry. I was playing clean.”
Jenna Santos took the free kick and shot it into the box and was cleared out.
In the second half, the Falcons came out strong. Jessica Arroyo made her presence known by finding ways into attacking positions near goal.
Arroyo broke into the box and fired, but the effort was saved by goalkeeper Marleen Cabrera.
Arroyo jumped on the rebound and put it away, but was called offside.
Samara Gonzalez tested Cabrera taking a long range shot that didn’t yield much for Cerritos.
Alexis Bakalar, Trinidad Arizmendi and Marleen Cabrera formed a formidable trio. Soon however, the referee blew for full time and sent the game into a penalty kick shootout. Bakalar made two saves for
the Falcons to give them the edge in the shootout.
Genesis Mendoza come up to the spot and beat Cabrera on the left side, winning the game and finishing fifth place in the tournament.
Mendoza said, “Honestly, I don’t usually take PKs, but as a captain I felt like it was my responsibility to the team and to myself. So as soon as I stepped up, I knew if I make this, we win. So I knew I had to put it behind the
net and that’s exactly what I did and I’m forever grateful for that as this was my last home game playing here for Cerritos.”
Bakalar on what was going through her mind during the penalty kicks, said, “Honestly, I was just praying a lot and would just kind of remember everything that my coach Rapa taught me and I would kind of look to him almost before every shot and he just gave me the confidence that I needed and the rest of the girls
too, just hearing them in my corner just gave me everything that I needed to block the shot.”
Yvette Vascones on her teams play in the game, said “I thought it was good. I mean, we had our moments, but I don’t think it should have gotten to PKs, but it is what it is.”
Vascones on Bakalar performance in the penalty kicks shootout, said “She stepped up big for us, and it’s good. She did good. I’m proud of her.”
The Falcons now wait for their first round opponent to be announced.
However the Falcons barely fell short of a playoff spot with the Falcons needing to sneak in the 24th spot however ended up falling short in the 25th spot.
The Falcons ended the season with a record of 7-9-5 .
Cerritos College Falcons volleyball head coach Kari Hemmerling giving a pep talk to the volleyball team during a timeout in last set of the Long Beach City College vs. Cerritos college match on Nov. 13 2024.
MICHAEL DELGADO
Sophomore setter Leeya Rubio before serve during the Long Beach City College vs. Cerritos College match on Nov. 13 2024.
DURAN VENTURA
Madi Jones (left) and Sariah Sanchez (right) on the wing against Rio College Roadrunners on Nov 12, 2024
JONATHAN DIAZ
Cerritos College Falcons Volleyball regrouping after scoring against Long Beach City College on Nov. 13 2024.
JONATHAN DIAZ