The Telescope 59.20

the

NEXT STOP,

PALOMAR Six Comets look lor fresh st11rt 111 P11lom11r. • PAGE 19 www. the-telescope.com

District, faculty at odds over contract

By John Asbury

'1Ve'n 111111sklll to sh1111 the vision tJI hlom11r's lutun, but if the distritt tllnMt comply ••• tight now, then thlll vision is BIIWed Ill best 11nd disingenuous."

THE TEUSCOPI:

The Palomar College's faculty union challenged the governing board to hold administrators accountable after recent contract negotiations have gone stale.

Palomar Faculty Federation CoPresident Rocco Versaci delivered a report expressing the faculty's frustration over strained contract negotiations during the April 13 governing board meeting.

"We have serious questions about the direction that Palomar is going. As trustees you are ultimately responsible for what happens," Versaci told the board. "We're all asked to share the vision of Palomar's future, but if the district cannot comply . . . right now, then that vision is flawed at best and disingenuous."

John Tortarolo, the vice president of

"The flltulty hils ell/1111 for lrllnsp11renq in the budget 11nd we've put it out there for everybody to underslllnd. lfs not up to us, the gmnd provider, to come up with 11/l this money."

- Rocco Versaci

-

PALOMAR FACULTY fEDERATION CO-PRESIDENT

human resources who serves as the district's chief negotiator was absent and board members did not comment following Versaci's statement.

The main issues under debate are benefits and office hours for part-time faculty members. The faculty union, which represents about 300 full-time and 850 part-time faculty members, is requesting that the college provide part-timers with about $140,000 in health benefits and provide paid office

Michele Nelson

GOVERNING BOARD PRESIDENT

hours, according to a union statement.

After the meeting, governing board president Michele Nelson said the college cannot afford to provide what the union has asked for. She added that she was surprised by Versaci's criticism of the board and the lack of understanding from the PFF. "The faculty has called for transparency in the budget and we've put it out there for everybody to understand," Nelson said. "It's not up to us,

the grand provider, to come up with all this money. We're all colleagues and we can work to a mut ual solution.

Right now the funds aren't available - enrollment drives revenue and enrollment is down," Nelson added.

"There's no money to pay for areas (that need) funding, but there might be ways to work on it."

College president Robert Deegan • SEE CONTRACT, PAGE 14

Students lobby in Washington, D.C.

By John Asbm·y TilE TELESCOPE

Palomar student representatives took it upon themselves to address student issues with congressional leaders as Associated Student Government members traveled to Washington D.C. during spring break.

A group of 10 students journeyed to the nation's capital the week of March 16 to visit Congressional staff, lobby for student issues and attend a national conference for the American Association of Community Colleges.

"It's important for us to bring these issues to the table on behalf of the students," said ASG Sen. Stephanie Chen.

• SEE ASG, PAGE 3 PHOTOS BY DONNIE BOYLE / TilE TElESCOPE

EOP&S seeks food donations after rats raid pantry

Springfest

BOCKs

By John Asbury THE TELESCOPE

By Jason Dunn THE TElESCOPE

Live music permeated the San Marcos campus April 11 through April13 during Springfest, an annual event organized by the Associated Student Government.

Several Palomar departments, clubs and outside vendors had tables set up around the Student Center during the three-day event.

"I wanted it to be the biggest and the best ever," said Stephanie Chen, the ASG senator who was chairwoman of the organizing committee.

In addition to the tables, there were performances from live bands, Army recruiters brought a rock-climbing wall to • SEE SPRING FEST, PAGE 9

SMOKIN'

Top: Natasha Cox and Gordon Bash, the lead singer and bass guitarist for Mankind is Obsolete, played in front of the Student Center Aprilll during Springfest Above: Wor1d Drum and Dance Ensemble student Rachel Eng1and perfonns in the Student Center Aprilll

oun

Should smoking be bllnned on UJmpus?

Palomar's Extended Opportunity Program and Services is seeking donations after rats infiltrated its food pantry. The rodents ravaged the supply of non-perishable boxed foods after accessing the pantry through a one-inch space beneath an outside door, said Manager of Facilities Planning Kelley Hudson-Maclsaac. Nearly the entire food supply was destroyed except for canned goods and Palomar workers have since filled the gap, Hudson-Macisaac said.

To replace the shortage, EOP&S is accepting donations of non-perishable items, and the group is also in need of metal bins to store the food. The organization distributes food year-round for all Palomar students. For more information, contact EOP&S at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2236.

BLOODY JUSTICE lstondido tilt show runs through the summer.

l11test in V11mpire Hunter series tomes lull tittle.

2

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL24, 2006

~mpus GALENDAR

ARCHIVE PHOTO I THE TELESCOPE

1992

Scott SchoU, ~st for The Vagabonds, perfonns in front of the Sludent Union during Palomar's Earth Day Celebration in 1992. The celebration featured merchandise made from recycled materials and the Psychology Club's mascot, a three-year-old lama named Geoffrey.

Palomar

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Borden Road closed due to chemical spill Access to Palomar College on Borden Road was closed for several hours April 18 after a chemical spill at the intersection of Borden and Twin Oaks Valley Roads. A pick-up carrying 5-gallon tanks of liquid polyurethane spilled two of its barrels after turning westbound onto Borden Road, said San Marcos Fire Captain Tom Spencer.

Borden road was closed westbound from about 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. while a San Diego Hazardous Materials crew was called to clean up the spill. Access to Palomar was diverted to W. Mission Road while cars were still able to exit Lot 9 using eastbound Borden Road.

A San Marcos city crew closed the road because the polyurethane, which is used on playgrounds, could have been harmful to cars passing through it. Crews treated the spill with ammonia and used street sweepers before reopening the road.

Student gov't prepares for May election Students vying for Associated Student Government and vice president must file their paperwork by April 25 with the Student Affairs office in Room SU-201.

The ASG will also hold a candidates' forum April 26 at 1 p.m. in Room SU18 to introduce candidates and present their platforms.

As of April 19, only two candidates have filed to run for office. In order to run, candidates must complete an elec-

tion packet and collect 50 valid student signatures. They must also attend a candidates' meeting.

Palomar students will elect new officers during an online election May 2 through May 4 on the college's Web site.

Students will also vote on a proposed name change from the ASG to the Associated Student Organization. ASG meetings are held every Wednesday at .

1 p.m. in Room SU-18.

For further information, contact the Student Affairs Office at (760) 7441150, ext. 2450 or go to Room SU-201.

Students hurt in Mission Road rollover Palomar College Police officers and San Diego Sheriffs deputies responded to two separate incidents April 18 after reports of a foster runaway and a rollover car accident where five people, including at least two students, were seriously inured, Palomar Police Chief Tom Plotts said.

Shortly after 2 p.m., five victims were seriously injured inside a Mazda sedan that rolled over twice at the intersection of Comet Circle and W. Mission Road. As of April19, there were no reported fatalities after three people were taken by ambulance to Palomar hospital and two others were taken to Sharp Medical Center in San Diego.

No cause of the accident has been determined and the identities of the victims were not immediately released.

Plotts said at least two victims are Palomar students.

Palomar police also assisted deputies in the search for a runaway 18-year-old man reported missing by a state foster agency. Police were unable to locate the man during a two-hour grid search of the campus. Plotts said the man was not accused of any crimes, but was being sought to check on his safety and welfare.

Anyone with further information is being asked to contact the Palomar Police Department at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2289.

• Free film series "Priesf' 6:30 p.m. in Room P· 32.

• Associated Student Government elections May 2 through May 4 on Palomar's Web site at www.palomar.edu.

• All College Forum 2:30p.m. in the Governing Board Room. Administration will discuss the bond, budget, enrollment projections and faculty hires.

• Career Fair 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of the Student Center. Sponsored by the Career Center.

• Campus Explorations "Confronting Poverty" Interdisciplinary panel discussion from 2- 3 p.m. in Room ES-19.

• Financial Aid Awareness Day 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in fro~ 0f the Student Center. Info on grants, loans and scholarships.

• Arboretum Beautification Day 9 a.m. at the Palomar College Arboretum.

• Transfer Recognition Day 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Student Center. Event honors students who have completed the requirements necessary to transfer to a four-year university.

• Diversity celebration "Unity in Diversity - Keeping the Dream Alive" 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Room P-32. Event features keynote speaker, food, entertainment and panel discussion.

Federal criteria delays science building work The projected completion date for the new high-tech science building on the San Marcos campus is being tentatively pushed back three to four weeks from its March 2007 deadline, said Supervisor of Construction Activities Chris Miller.

Miller said crews from McMahon Steel are modifying structural beams in the interior of the building to meet Federal Emergency Management Agency guidelines set out to help ensure the safety of a building's occupants during a major catastrophe. The beams are being slightly reshaped in order to give the structure the ability to flex during an earthquake. He said the changes were not anticipated, but were suggested by the project's inspector, Kent Schafer of Consulting and Inspection Services.

"This was a problem that the project's inspector caught early on, and we had time to fix it," Miller said.

Crews from C.E. Wylie Construction also shrouded the first floor of the building in blue tarps while they spray the interior with fireproofing material.

Miller said the only sections of concrete left to pour are in the building's first floor lecture halls, where the built-in seating will feature an electrical duct for every chair allowing students to plug in laptops. Some seating

What belongs herel

Tell us. telescope@paiOIICir.eclu or cal (760) 744-IISO.Illf. 2450

areas will also include ports to connect to the Internet, though Miller said a wireless network will be available inside the building for students to use.

For more information, contact Chris Miller at (760) 744-1150, ext. 3333.

College forum set to address pending issues Palomar College President Robert Deegan will address a number of upcoming issues during an all-college forum April 25 at 2:30 p.m. in the Governing Board Room.

Topics planned for discussion will include an update on the college's pursuit of a $600- to $800-million bond measure on the November ballot.

Deegan will also present information on the college's budget and enrollment projections for the summer and Fall 2006 semesters.

This year's enrollment is down and summer enrollment figures will determine if the college meets its staterequired base and receives its full funding.

The hiring of new faculty members will also be announced at the forum.

The college approved 15 full-time positions for the 2006-2007 year including positions in the English Department, mathematics, automotive and Africana studies.

Students, faculty, staff and community members may attend.

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

3

Doing a good deed for Mother Nature • Arboretum ele11n-up seheduled lor Arbor D11y

By Leslie Simpson THE TELESCOPE

Palomar's sprawling arboretum offers a natural outdoor setting for classwork, exercise and lunch breaks.

But weeds have overgrown the benches, and trails are hidden beneath a layer of dead leaves.

Not for long. With free donuts and barbequed sausage fueling their labor, volunteers will weed, rake and chip branches to beautify the on-campus nature preserve. Students, staff and community members can join forces from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 29 for the Fifth Annual Arboretum Beautification Day, hosted by the Cabinet and Furniture Technology Department.

Volunteers should bring their own rakes, shovels, gloves, hats and sunscreen. They will meet at the arboretum entrance on Comet Circle, north of the Library.

The date corresponds with Arbor Day - the last Friday in April - set aside nationally for celebrating and cultivating trees. Russ Filbeck, event organizer and woodworking instructor, said he chose the date hoping that trees would be planted or at least cared for. Filbeck said there is an inherent connection between the arboretum and woodworking classes.

"It's a natural thing for us to nurture living plants and trees because that's what we work with," Filbeck said. "We make beautiful things from wood."

As many as 100 CFT students have signed up for the project, Filbeck said.

College president Robert Deegan, members of the board of trustees and staff members have also submitted RSVPs, said Filbeck. He asked that volunteers contact him ahead of time at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2812 so he can bring enough food .

STEPHANIE TOMBRINCK I THE TELESCOPE

Students, faculty, staff and community members will grab hoes, shovels and rakes during the Cabinet and Furniture Technology-sponsored Arboretum Beautification Day. Located on the north end of Palomar's San Marcos campus, the Arboretum features plantlife from all over the world, particularly Austrailia.

Rick Kratcoski, Palomar's grounds supervisor and president of the Friends of the Palomar College Arboretum, said he hoped more staff and students get involved this year. He said he would like to see students from various backgrounds participate, especially those in student government.

"It was the ASG's idea to put the arboretum there," said Kratcoski. "But in the past 16 years we have not seen a strong interest by the student population to do anything with it."

Many students do not realize that the arboretum exists. Tucked away on the north end of campus, some students park directly beside it unaware it is there. Palomar student Alice Lu

said she was pleased to learn it was there.

"I didn't even know about it, but it's a nice idea," she said. "It's nice to have a place to hang out with friends away from the classrooms."

The new science building, currently under construction, faces directly into the arboretum. Kratcoski said it's important to clean up the arboretum now, to enhance the view from the new classrooms. The beautification event will kick off a campus-wide effort to improve the grounds, Kratcoski said.

With commencement exercises slated for May 19, everyone has a vested interest in cleaning up the campus, Filbeck said. Visitors will converge

from near and far, and Filbeck said he hoped Palomar makes a good impression.

Concerned Palomar volunteers who are unable to help with the beautification day can still become involved through the Friends of the Palomar College Arboretum.

Meetings take place on the second Wednesday of the month, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. More information about meetings and the beautification day is available at www.palomar.edu/arboretum/.

"I hope people are interested in keeping our grounds nice and beautiful ," Filbeck said. "The trees don't clean up after themselves."

• ASG: Student reps push for more financial aid, community college funding CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ASG President Neill Kovrig said Palomar faces many of the same issues as other community colleges and by visiting Washington D.C. , students were better able to understand how to take action.

"The cost ofliving and the price of education h asn't been frozen, but the available money has," Kovrig said. "It makes it difficult to ignore this problem when there are sheer numbers behind it."

Prior to the trip, ASG members conducted an informal survey of 104 Palomar students and found that less than half received financial aid, while students averaged more than $1,100 in total expenses and an average monthly income of about $1,000.

"A lot of student aid h as been eliminated or kept frozen making it difficult to maintain an education," Kovrig said. "Education is a priority for students, but being able to live is more of a priority."

Student government members presented the findings and requests to increase gr ants.

The ASG also lobbied for student tax credits and an appeal to lower the student independence age from 24 to 21.

"This shows that both students with and without financial aid are both in dire straits when paying for education and the cost of living," Kovrig said.

ASG members met with other student leaders and office staff from Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif, Sen. Diane Fienstien, D-Calif and Rep. Darrell Issa RVista. Members of Congress were in recess when students visited, but ASG members presented congressional aides with information about Palomar and requests for greater focus on community college needs, such as more financial aid and college funding.

During the D.C. trip Palomar students also delivered a series of resolutions to Congress from the ASG and the college's governing board. Resolutions requested that Congress protect community college program funding and increase student grants.

Kovrig added that the experience also gave student representatives a chance to learn from other colleges that were lobbying for student interests. He said con-

COURTESY PHOTO

Associated Student Government Sen. Alex Mendoza meets with White House Press Correspondent Helen Thomas during the American Association of Community Colleges' National Conference in Washington D.C. ASG senators lobbied Congress for community college issues.

gressional leaders are willing to listen and would be more apt to taking action as more students voice their concerns.

"If students know wh at we're doing they might be more active and get involved," said ASG Sen. Kent Du. The Student Government is currently running a letter-writing campaign to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, asking to maintain community col-

lege funding on the state level. Students are also pushing for the National Tuition Endowment through the U.S. Department of Education, which would promise $50 billion annually in grants and student loans.

"We learned what it takes to facilitate change especially in D.C.," Kovrig said. "It was well worth the time and effort and it showed we represented Palomar well."

4

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

•0 •a.

I'm too emo for my mascara's latest blog entry

Life sucks [View more] Ode to blood [View more) 1 hate my parents (View more] [View a ll blog entries]

I'm too emo for my mascara•s blurbs

0

CHARLES STEINMAN I THE TELESCOPE

MySpaced out easily walk up and tell someone I'm not wearing underwear. But I fully accept the repercussions of this upon my social life.

Of course I'm tempted by the ease of forwarding a bulletin to everyone in my address book. Better yet, the guise of a survey. Do you drink coffee or tea? Coffee. Have you kissed someone in a Jacuzzi? Yes. Are you wearing underwear? No. I am a Power Ranger.

Yet I question the true purpose of these soI am also a jam cookie and a loyal friend.

This according to the flood of surveys and called surveys. Is this blatant grandstanding, quizzes that bombard my eor e-voyeurism? Why the sudden interest in underwear? mail inbox and MySpace They could simply ask me, or even take a bulletin board. As if compeek when I bend over. But it's just not the puters didn't suck up same, is it? I think somebody has a survey enough of our time, we now fetish. have the online version of Apparently a lot of people do. I receive sev20 questions to contend eral surveys every day. From friends, family with.

Find your inner superhero. How many lev- members, acquaintances and people I don't even know. els do you have?

Some were obviously written by a highEven worse, we must wade through other people's answers. Do we really need to know schooler. Certain questions make this unmiswhether they prefer closed-mouth or French takable: Do you like high school? Do you want to go to college? Do you look at people's underkissing? Isn't that a no-brainer anyway?

-wear in gym class?

Do they think we wonquizzes seem to be writder about their natural This is how we tonneet, by tenOther by a fifth grader: What's hair color, or if they wear your favorite color? Do you have underwear? Telling their spewing our intim11ties to deepest fears to acquain- everyone in our 11ddress a pet? Are you most like a Care Bear or My Little Pony? tances accomplishes Then, there are the X-rated • wh at? The fact that book or on our friends list. questions that I hope my fifththey've had hemorrhoids grade nephew doesn't receive in his inbox. Who is definitely too much information.

This is how we connect, by spewing our in the world would forward those to everyone intimacies to everyone in our address book or in their address book? Probably someone who's on our friends list. In the old days, people dis- sitting half-naked at their computer.

Let's peel ourselves away from our monitors cussed such matters over a cup of coffee or a beer. Is it so difficult to carry on an interest- for a few minutes and actually interact with flesh-and-blood people. Look someone in the ing conversation in person?

Before I make some enemies, let me say I eye, concentrate on their interests. Ask them if can relate. As a card-carrying member of the they're wearing underwear.

They may surprise you.

Society for Extraordinary Introverts, I cannot

• Surveys on llySp11te give its 11ddiets 11n exeuse lor voyeurism, 11voiding person11/ re/111ionships

Teliictpe

Monday, April 24, 2006

Volume 59, No. 20

FOCUSED ON PAI.OMAR The Telescope is published weekly on Mondays, except weeks containing holidays or exams. Signed opinions are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily represent those of the entire newspaper staff, Palomar faculty and staff or the Governing Board.

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS THE TELESCOPE, PALOMAR COLLEGE, 1140 WEST MISSION ROAD, SAN MARCOS, CA 92069 NEWSROOM ROOM TCB·l

EDITOR IN CHIEF DONNIE BOYLE NEWS EDITOR JESSICA HALSTON PHOTO EDITOR STEPHANIE TOMBRINCK OPINION EDITOR THOMAS MAY WIRE EDITOR JOHN ASBURY CO-FOCUS EDITOR KYLE HAMILTON CO-FOCUS EDITOR CHRYSTALL KANYUCK ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR KATY GOODWIN SPORTS EDITOR MATT NULL ASST SPORTS EDITOR JOHN SCAFETTA ONLINE EDITOR KYLE HAMILTON ASST ONLINE EDITOR IAN CLARK AD MANAGER DOREEN SCHULZ INSTRUCTIONAL ASST CHARLES STEINMAN INSTRUCTIONAl ASST TOM CHAMBERS

PHONE (760) 744-1150, EXT. 2450 FAX (760) 744-8123, PLEASE WRITE: "ATTN: THE TELESCOPE" E-MAIL TELESCOPE®PALOMAR.EDU WEB SITE WWW.THE-TELESCOPE.COM

District's dispute with facu-lty is ill~advised, poorly timed Last year at this time Palomar College was the picture of tranquility. Robert Deegan had just taken over as college president, Ralph Jensen had recently been voted off the governing board and a bitter four-year contact dispute between the faculty and the district had ended. All was good.

The honeymoon is over!

On the surface everything looks fine. But 1 underneath, things are ready to blow. With the iJi ' faculty's first contract ready to ~xpire, negot~a- ~ I tions for the new contract have hit a wall. While c. things may not be as bad as the days of college president Sherrill Amador and the old faculty-hostile governing board, the ingredients for another drawn-out, nasty standoff exist.

With the district pursuing a $600- to $800-million bond meas· ure there could not be a worse time for infighting and negative publicity. Deegan will hold an all-campus forum on April 25 to talk about the bond, the budget and other campus issues. If he cannot rekindle some of the optimism and good will that he brought to the college last year- a successful bond measure and all that goes with it will be little more than a pipe dream.

When officials began discussing the possibility of pursuing a bond they said the positive campus climate made now the perfect time to go forward. While that positive climate is not entirely gone, with each passing day, faculty and district negotiators move further apart and the situation seems more and more hopeless.

At some point district officials are going to have· to ask; "do we really want this fight right now?" Given what the faculty is ask· ing for - the answer should be no. The fact that the district has pushed the situation this far is mind-boggling.

The faculty's proposal would only cost the district about $500,000 per year. Even worse, the key provisions the district is fighting would benefit part-time faculty members - Palomar's bread and butter. About 800 of Palomar's 1,100 to 1,200 faculty members are part timers -nowhere near the 75/25 (75 percent full time/25 percent part time) ratio mandated by the state.

The bottom line is that part timers are cheap. The district doesn't have to pay for health benefits or office hours. The faculty union's proposal would provide basic health care to eligible parttimers (they would still have to pay half) and paid office hours.

About half of Palomar's "student contact hours" are with parttime instructors. It makes sense to provide students and faculty with office hours for half the classes taught at Palomar.

Again, this raises the question, ''why fight this?" And even more puzzling, "why fight this now?" Why alienate the faculty by denying a vital group of faculty members basic concessions? Why deny students contact with their professors - a key to success and retention? Even from a public relations standpoint, why risk having the college be perceived as not doing all it can to improve the quality ofthe education than it offers, or at the very least, try to prevent Palomar from being seen as dysfunctional at a time when it is going to ask the community for money.

The $800-million question is simply - why? Why fight over $500,000 per year and throw away $800 million? The district can cry poverty all it wants. The fact is that it has a projected budget surplus of about $10 million this year, twice the state-re_co~­ mended 5 percent of its $100 million annual budget. Agam, 1t does not make sense to fight over this issue.

Money may not be the key factor in this fight. Newly-hired Vice President of Human Resources John Thrtarolo is at the table as the district's chief negotiator for the first time. This may be nothing more than the new guy doing a little saber rattling to set the tone for future negotiations. But now is not the time. It is not worth throwing away a bond measure worth hundreds of millions of dollars and the college's future to gain the upper hand in later negotiations.

Deegan needs to step in and bring the two sides together. There is no need to speculate what may happen if this stalemate continues - everyone who is even vaguely familiar with Palomar's recent history knows where this road leads.

STAFF WRITERS KRISTINA BARTON, JOSH CHITICA, KONRAD CHOMIK, JASON DUNN, LINDA ECKERT, SHAHRAZAD ENCINIAS, BRIANNA HALL, JACOB KARP, ANDREA LACUESTA, CHRISTINE LUCAS, ABBEY MASTRACCO, SOPHIA NAVARRO, SCOTT NETH, MARWAN RAZOUK, MANDl REITZ·STEUDLER, JEREMY ROSEFELD, LESLIE SIMPSON, KRISTINA TORRES

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS HUGH COX, ELLIOT DE LISSER, JERRY HOLLIE, JARED LANSFORD, NANCY LARIOS, ANDI SANDOVAL, DOMINICK ULLOA, ANNAKA WICKSTROM

JOURNAliSM ADVISER WENDY NELSON JOURNAliSM ADVISER ERIN HIRO PHOTOJOURNAliSM ADVISER PAUL STACHELEK

The Telescope welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters must be typewritten (no more than 350 words), and must be signed with the author's first and last names, major and phone number.

The Telescope reserves the right to edit letters for space and not to print letters containing lewd or libelous comments. Letters must be received

by Monday at 3 p.m. to be considered for publication the next Monday.

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL24, 2006

5

Blowin Should Palomar College ban smoking on campus?

SOPHIA NAVARRO I THE TEUS(OPE

• Yes: Smoking is unhe111thy11nd 11nnoying to the rest ol us

By Thomas May

TKE TELESCOPE

One cigarette can really stink up the joint. Any non-smoker certainly can attest to this. We have all been in situations where somebody lights up in a crowd of people, creating a stench that everyone except other smokers are repulsed by.

The point is that designating places on campus to smoke, as Palomar College currently does, is not enough. In order to truly make the quality of life good for all Palomar students, the campus should be smokefree.

Palomar College received a "C+" from the American Lung Association in December for its performance in enforcing policies and laws to discourage tobacco use on campus. The grade was the second lowest among two-year colleges in the San Diego area. Palomar was given the grade partly because its smoking laws are not strict enough, and partly because the current ones are not enforced enough.

With problems like this, it is no wonder that so many places are instituting smokefree policies, including Petco Park in San Diego and Del Mar's beaches. If these very public areas that also facilitate thousands of people can ban smoking, so can Palomar College.

Smoking is not only a major annoyance to those who do not smoke, but also a health risk. The effects of smoking have been well-documented and well-publicized.

Most people who smoke know the risks of smoking and do it anyway. People who don't smoke also know the risks, and that keeps them from smoking.

Smokers argue that they should have the freedom to smoke the same way that nonsmokers say that they should have freedom to breathe. This seems valid, except there is a huge difference: Smokers voluntarily suck on carcinogens, while non-smokers who just happen to be in the path of cigarette smoke have no choice but to inhale.

There really is no connection between those arguments.

It's easy to say that smokers will respect

Should Palomar be a smoke-free campus~

non-smokers' wishes and only light up in parts of campus where they won't intrude on other people's territory. Many smokers probably do, but many do not. It's hard not to encounter the puffing of a few smokers while walking past the Student Center on the San Marcos campus on most days.

Again, not all smokers do this, but why give smokers a place on campus, anyway?

Smoking is addictive and smokers have uncontrollable urges to do it. ''We're going to do it anyway," they say. "So don't try to stop us." Lots of things are addictive and illegal- but that does not mean that we should provide a place for those things on a school campus.

We don't have accommodations for alcoholics or sex addicts, so why do we have ones for nicotine addicts? The argument can be made that between cigarettes and ''harder" drugs, tobacco is the lesser of two evils. Well, evil is still evil. Maybe cigarettes kill at a much faster rate than say, cocaine, but they still kill.

Student smokers have to respect the wishes of others and learn to control their habits while they are on the Palomar campus. Those who have classes close together and are on campus for long periods of time may suffer at first, but in the long run, they will save money and have healthier lungs.

If a smoker cannot control stop himself from having a cigarette while on campus, maybe he should schedule himself so he does not have so many classes in row. That way he will have time to leave the campus and have a smoke.

As for faculty and staff who smoke: If high school teachers and custodians can stay all day and not smoke on campus, so can college professors and administrators.

A smoke-free campus would make Palomar College a better environment for everyone to be in. Smokers need to come to their senses and realize that smoking is something that just should not be done around people they don't know - it's just rude.

As students, the largest group of people on campus, we need to express our desire for Palomar College to become smoke-free.

Write to the president of the college and let him know how you feel about this.

And if you are a smoker, get ready to cut back on your nicotine intake.

• No: Smokers h11ve the 111ml rights 111 non-smokers · By lan Clar·k

THE TELESCOPE

To smoke or not to smoke? That is the question that many Palomar College students may be asking themselves soon if certain people on this campus have their way.

In the past few years, various students, health professionals and college officials have been promoting a campaign to make Palomar's campus "smoke-free."

Such a law would take away people's freedom to smoke tobacco outdoors and would never work. There are much better solutions to this problem than trying to ban smoking all together.

In 2004, Jean Feeny of the Vista Community Clinic said 30 percent of students on college campuses smoke. Thirty percent of Palomar's approximately 30,000 students means 9,000 students.

That means thousands would be faced with the decision of either quitting smoking, figuring out how to avoid getting caught, or transferring to another school.

Because many students who smoke have more than one class on their schedule per day, they are bound to need to light up at least once between classes. This law would make it very inconvenient for the student who needs a smoke break before rushing off to their next subject.

Smokers already know how bad cigarettes are for their health. The reason that they continue doing it, despite these facts, is because nicotine is seriously addictive. If someone is going to quit smoking, they are going to do it when they are good and ready, not when someone tells them they have to.

The average cigarette usually takes about five minutes to smoke. The time that it would take to leave campus, smoke and come back would be ridiculously longer.

Even if the "No Smoking" signs were posted and the "task force" was on patrol, they would have trouble enforc~ ing the rules. Many would continue to smoke despite the signs and there would have to be some sort of punishment involved if caught.

If the designated smoking areas that are already in place on campus were greater enforced, this problem would be greatly reduced.

If someone told me six months ago when I used to smoke - that I couldn't smoke on campus, I would probably find a place where no one was looking and smoke anyway. The tight grip of a nicotine addiction will do that to a person.

If the idea of the smoking ban is aimed to reduce the number of students smoking on campus, there are already tactics in place to help with that issue.

One such tactic was the 20-foot rule.

This law, implemented in 2004, made students smoke at least 20 feet away from any building on campus.

Smoking cessation classes are also offered through health services if a student is having a hard time quitting on their own. These should be sufficient solutions.

The main argument that non-smokers pose is the issue of secondhand smoke.

There is an unspoken smoker's etiquette that most are aware of. If followed, it will reduce the reason for complaints.

For those who may need a refresher on the smoking etiquette, these are the main points: 1) Do not light a cigarette right next to non-smokers. Most people find it very unpleasant to unexpectedly inhale the last puff of someone's Camel Filter.

2) If you're going to smoke, properly dispose of your cigarette butt in an ashtray. This will probably require a five-minute walk, due to the lack of ashtrays on campus; however, it will clean up the campus, as well as the smoker's image.

Concerns about smoking indoors are understandable, but when a smoker cannot even go outside to fulfill the craving, the line has been crossed.

It's not like people light up at their desk while the teacher is lecturing. They do it outside in the open air.

If someone doesn't want to breathe secondhand smoke, don't sit next to someone who is smoking. It's really that simple.

Too many people are quick to condemn people who smoke tobacco. If a compromise can be made rather than simply banning smoking, we can come to a much better outcome that will satisfy both smokers and non-smokers alike.

ROBIN VOLZ ACCOUNTING

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NOOSHIN ASGARI MUSIC

DON OLSON UNDE(IDED

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''I would prefer it, but I'm not a smoker. I don't appreciate having to inhale other people's smoke when I'm at school."

"Smoking is a very hard habit to break. I think it's a little unrealistic to ask people to stop smoking here."

''Yes! This is a place of learning why should we even give them a spot on campus to smoke when we come here to study?"

''No. As a smoker, I think it's hard to tell where I'm supposed to smoke on campus. They need to work on that before banning it everywhere."

"I think so smoking is bad for you. We shouldn't put up with it.

Smoke whatever you want at home, but don't bring it here."

6

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

Stop staring, let the111 dance if they •nt to • P11lom11r's D11nee D11nte Revolution eorner g11rners riditule, deserves respett

By Jessica Halston

THE TELESCOPE

You've heard it. You've seen them. You've felt the beat pulsing in your veins while you scarf down a cafeteria cheeseburger in the Student Center. It's Dance Dance Revolution - the machine that to a large population of Palomar's student body is both an object of confusion and annoyance - and its curious patrons, a cast of characters with a penchant for costumes.

It's time other Palomar students appreciate the DDR culture for what its worth. Several students have badmouthed the crowd that hangs out around the machine, claiming on a MySpace message board that they are weird, annoying and appear to be having an orgy.

The MySpace post that started the topic said it all: "Is anyone else a little tired of all the garbage goin' on by the Dance Dance Revolution machine in the Student Union?"

The machine may be annoying because of the noise it generates, but stop painting its patrons black. There's nothing wrong with free expression, and college campuses are traditionally where young people are the most free to do so.

The dancers have their own sense of fashion and attitude, and frankly, that game is hard. Watch them on the machine for a moment- they're pretty damn good, and TREY BANNON I THE TElESCOPE it's certainly a workout. The college should even consider offering a physical education class where the only dent wears chain mail. He doesn't need to worry about their antics funny in a certain light: "They've brought being stung by a bee, and it's like lifting weights while their samurai swords to fight each other with .. .I'm not activity is Dance Dance Revolution.

Each class period would involve practicing on the walking -:- his muscles have to be pretty toned. The girl joking."

The posts also used exaggeration to inflame the sitslow songs, and then students can be tested on the fast who wears a cat tail is just plain cute. Who doesn't like uation: "I'm sorry... it might just be me ... but whenev.numbers. The game develops foot-eye coordination, kittens?

And these costumes weren't bought in a plastic pack- er I go to the Student Union it seems like there's an timing, reflexes and it's a cardio exercise.

Think of the good the DDR kids are doing age at Rite Aid - they looked either orgy goin' on by the Dance Dance Revolution machine ..." very expensive or homemade. for their bodies while the cafeteria workers Their shenanigans are also amusing.

There are students making out all over campus and serve you greasy fries and sugar-loaded The m11thine m11y be One week this semester, several of the DDR corner is hardly the worst spot. If you don't soda. Join them- you'll save money on a 11nnoying bet11use ol the DDR crowd dressed as knights and want to see people kissing, then mind your own busigym membership. It's only 50 cents to play. the noise it gener11tes, gypsies.

This is free entertainment, ness. They're spreading the love - you're spreading The costumes seem to attract the most ladies and gentlemen. It was just like gossip. scrutiny, but this festive garb is more practi- but stop p11inting its Next time you're in the Student Center, show some being at Medieval Times- and people cal then you think. p11trons bllltk.

Take the guy who wears a cape everyday. pay good money for that. The girls appreciation. Most of the naysayers probably wouldA cape would be great for keeping your danced in between tables, the bells on n't have the guts to be as daring as the DDR kids.

After all, this is college. Now is your time to go crazy books dry in the rain and it wards off harmful uv rays their skirts jingling as they skipped.

Even the doubting MySpace poster seems to find - and wear a cape. that could ultimately cause skin cancer. Another stu-

Saddam~s trial nothing more than a sham B Jason Dunn T E TELESCOPE

America will stoop low for international support.

After invading Iraq for no apparent justifiable reason, the U.S. wants to gain some favor with countries that oppose the invasion. Luckily, it has Saddam Hussein under lock and key and can trot him out onto the international stage in a court room.

Hussein's trial is nothing more than a show trial. The U.S. is making sure the trial is very public, and they're going to make sure Hussein is found guilty.

The purpose of the trial is to expose to the world all of Hussein's misdeeds and to help justifY the invasion of Iraq. It's not about due process of law; it's propaganda.

Hussein is being charged with involvement in the execution of around 140 men, women and children after a failed assassination attempt on him in the town of Dujail, 40 miles north of Baghdad. There are more charges against him to follow.

Does anyone doubt the outcome of the trial? Either from believing that Hussein is clearly guilty or from knowing that the U.S. can't afford. to allow any other verdict? Why is this trial even being held when the U.S. thinks it's good enough for other people to be anonymously locked away in Guantanamo Bay? In an attempt to appear fair and impartial about Hussein's fate, the U.S. gave custody of Hussein to Iraq, and he is being tried in Iraq under a panel of Iraqi judges.

According to a July 2005 article in the 1-ew York Times, the prosecution is using

U.S. lawyers and forensic officers from a department called the Regime Crimes Liaison Office. This office is financed by the U.S. Justice Department and is housed inside the U.S. embassy in Iraq.

So much for impartiality.

The U.S. also wants the trial to be very public, otherwise there's no propaganda value. According to an October 2005 article in the same newspaper, the U.S. built courtroom has booths for journalists to view the trial behind bullet-proof glass and an expensive audio and video system installed.

If the U.S. gave custody of Hussein to Iraq to be fair and impartial, why are they investing so much in the trial? The U.S. has a vested interest in everyone seeing Hussein found guilty and they're going to try and make it happen.

Unfortunately for the U.S., Hussein has to co-operate with the proceedings for the trial to be a public relations success, and he is not co-operating. All that the U.S. has invested in the trial is not giving any returns because the one man at the center of it all refuses to be crushed by America's might.

On the stand, Hussein claims the court has no legitimacy, he argues with the judges about who has the authority in the room and uses his time in front of the international media to denounce the invasion of his country. None of Hussein's claims or arguments are unreasonable.

I do not applaud Hussein's past actions, but I do applaud him for openly defYing the kangaroo court he is in. The trial is a cheap attempt by the U.S. to gain popularity, it's a waste of American taxpayer 's money, and it makes a mockery of courtroom proceedings.

think I'm crazy? Check ut this guy!

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DONNIE BOYLE AND THOMAS MAY

HE TELESCOPE

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

7

Seminar weighs racial implications

By Thoinas May THE TELESCOPE

What would Americans do if they could acquire technology that would dramatically improve their quality of life- for a price? What if that price was trading all the blacks in America to space aliens for these goods?

A video with this plot was part of the topic of discussion at "Ethics and the Politics of Race," a seminar in the Campus Explorations program held April 12 on the San Marcos campus.

The discussion was led by Palomar College English professor Jerry "Rafiki" Jenkins, who showed the audience of about 75 people the show "Space Traders," a 1994 episode of the HBO program "Cosmic Slop."

Jenkins said the video helped show that race is only skin deep, something that many do not understand.

"Science has proved that race cannot be defined biologically, but people are still searching for a timeless and universal definition of race," Jenkins said.

"The Congress and the courts have tried to do what science cannot; define what makes a certain race."

In the episode, the American government meets with a group of space aliens for the first time. The aliens say they can give technology that would eliminate smog, cure diseases and turn any metal into solid gold, among other things. In exchange, the aliens ask for all of the country's black population.

The President supports making the deal, and leaves the decision to a vote by the American people. A conservative black man within the administration tries to rally support to strike the deal

down, but ultimately fails and Americans vote to send away black people in e~change for the technology.

"The referendum passes because of the constant pursuit of a better life more than hatred for black people," Jenkins said. "The struggle for 'the good life' is one that often dictates the decisions we make."

Jenkins pointed out a scene in the episode where caucasian business men oppose the referendum, but only because of the loss in profits that would occur as a result.

"The social reality of race will only disappear when the economic value of race no longer exists," Jenkins said.

Jenkins said "Space Traders" often upsets whites, and the show faced pressure from HBO to not broadcast the episode on TV. Jenkins said the video was even more relevant now that immigration reform looms in Congress.

"I hope everyone learns a lesson from this video before we jump into sending away illegal immigrants here in the United·States," Jenkins said as he ended the seminar.

Many of the audience members were students.

"I thought it brought to light a lot of i;rnportant topics and observations about race that I hadn't thought of before," said Palomar student Alex Messina.

Another student, Andrew Huffman said he did not like the video.

"It was racist," Huffman said.

"Saying that white people would be willing to get rid of black people is like comparing them to Nazis. This is not a racist nation anymore."

DONNIE BOYLE I THE TELESCOPE

English professor Jerry "Rafiki" Jenkins fields questions about social versus biological definitions of race during a Campus Explorations seminar Aprill2. Discussion about current illegal immigration issues followed Jenkins' lecture.

After the seminar, several professors stayed and discussed the video.

"After seeing that, I thought, 'It could happen.

It happened in Nazi Germany,"' said English professor Teresa Laughlin. "It comes down to the fact that people do benefit from another race's downfall, and that's what we're seeing with this new immigration debate right now."

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Jenkins said he was happy with the way things went, but was not sure how people responded to it .

"This issue of race is such a touchy and complex subject, and it's always hard to tell what people are thinking about it," Jenkins said. "Hopefully, they learned something that they've never thought about today and maybe they will investigate it deeper."

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Program extends hand to adult students they help recruits fill out applications and register for classes.

For participants pursuing a high school diploma, the support staff examines their strengths and weaknesses to get an idea which subjects need attention, said EOC support staffer Willita Wright. Students are then referred for tutoring and given practice testing mateBy Leslie Simpson rials to work with at home.

THI THESCOPI EOC staff members will make appointLow self-esteem, financial troubles ments for recruits with a career counand personal issues can keep adults from selor, Wright added, or register them for pursuing an education. Responsibilities Counseling 165, or Career Search, a can overwhelm someone trying to return Palomar class designed to narrow stuto school. dents' career goals. Support staff memThe Palomar College North County bers can sign participants up for a comEducational Opportunity Center (EOC) puterized assessment that asks a series helps participants navigate the informa- of questions and generates ideas for postion necessary to continue their school- sible careers, Wright said. If students ing. EOC targets adults who are over 19 already have career skills, these years old, considered low resources can show how income and have already to broaden them. attended some high "They helped me through The center's outreach school. Many will be the the b11by steps of geffing involves visiting commufirst in their family to into 11 diH11entlife." nity organizations as well graduate from high school as setting up booths at or college.

- Candace Smith swap meets, fairs and EOC STAff MEMBER even supermarkets, Gen Roberts, EOC support staffer, said many Wright said. She said participants don't know where to begin.

EOC staff members actively seek They receive direction at the EOC office, recruits to the program because their low she explained, where staff members will income, minority target base is not likely write out a to-do list for each student. to search out assistance.

Regardless of their challenges, Roberts EOC staff members recruited Candace said, the center gives participants a Smith, communications major and EOC starting point. staffer, at a North County rehab center. ''We make it easy for people who are Smith said she was in recovery, trying to intimidated by the educational setting," find a new life. EOC members introshe said. ''We hold their hands and liter- duced her to opportunities she hadn't ally lead them." considered, Smith said.

EOC staff members walk participants ''They helped me through the baby to their classes, the tutoring center and steps of getting into a different life," she the library, Roberts said. They sit down said. "I went from a life on the streets at the computer with students and show with drugs, to becoming a college student them helpful Web sites. Step by step, with goals."

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Smith, recruited by the EOC two years ago, said she planned to get a certificate at Palomar and then transfer to a university. She said she took a job at the EOC so she could help make a difference in other people's lives. Her life-altering experience with the EOC is a favorite

topic at her old rehab center, she said.

"EOC held my hand long enough through the process to where I was confident to stand on my own two feet," Smith said. "Now I can give something back by helping others in the same situation, and that's the best."

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

9

• SPRINGFEST: Live music, food, activities draw students to three-day event CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

campus, Palomar dance students performed, DJs played music, and the ASG hosted a barbecue lunch the first two days, and gave away free kettle corn on the third.

"It's not boring like it usually is during the day when it's quiet," student Jason Pangalangan said.

"There's energy."

"It gives everyone more entertainment," said student Andrew Duley, "and it makes the place more lively."

"It seems like more of a campus" Pangalangan added.

Student David Wysocki agreed. "It gives it more of a college feel," he said.

KKSM, Palomar College's radio station, broadcasted live from Springfest on April 12, including the bands' live performa_nces.

Radio and Television instructor Joan Rubin hosts the show "Locals Live," which focuses on local bands.

The live broadcast coincided with the show's timeslot.

Rubin said she saw Springfest as an opportunity to promote KKSM. "We just want to get a lot of people to come up and say 'we didn't even know there was a radio station on campus,"' Rubin said.

Other Palomar departments were self-promoting during Springfest. The Foreign Languages Department promoted its trips abroad and cadets from Palomar's Public Safety Program, which trains police officers and firefighters, answered students' questions.

Outside vendors had tables set up and were offering their services to students.

Students could buy paintball tickets, jewelry, shoes, cosmetics and sign up with various gyms or with Washington Mutual.

"They get discounts on things which is important for college kids not making a lot of money," student Ryan Beason said. "Last time they had one of these is when I signed up for my 24 Hour Fitness membership."

Some of Palomar College's clubs were also at Springfest. The Geoscience Connection, the Pre-Med club, the Palomar College Republicans and Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society were all represented. Each used Springfest as an opportunity to recruit new members.

"It's good all around to promote all the different clubs and organizations on campus," said Ivan Reed,

DONNIE BOYLE I THE TELESCOPE

Bass guitar player Sam Johnson of the Michaellieman Trio performs in front of the Student Center during the Springtest celebration on Aprilll.

Palomar's radio station KKSM broadcasted live from the event that included a barbecue, rock climbing wall and campus organizations.

chairman of the Palomar College Republicans.

"It gives me a general awareness of what's actually here," said student Bernadette Rodriguez, "what the · school offers."

EOP&S, TRIO and Financial Aid were all at Springfest, letting students know what services they offered. The Counseling, Transfer and Careers Departments shared a table.

"It gives it more of a college feel" said Theresa Hogan Egkan, Transfer Center director.

Palomar counselor Elvia Nunez-Riebel agreed with Egkan.

"We find that students who find a connection, they're more likely to stay in college," Nunez-Riebel said.

"I was supposed to go home," student Vy Pham said, sitting during one of the band's performances. "But I just stayed to watch them perform and talk to the people at the tables."

Rubin said she felt the event created a sense of community.

"Palomar is such a commuter school," Rubin said.

"It's really nice to have something that brings the students together. It gives it more of a campus feel."

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By Scott Neth THE TELESCOPE

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For many students, Algebra instructor Bahram Alidaee gives the ultimate math solution- to either love math or learn to live with it.

Take one of Bob's (his students and friends call him Bob) classes, and you are likely to learn a lot.

"I love my job. I have a passion to teach, and I love to see my students succeed," Alidaee said. "It makes me happy when I hear them say, 'I got it Bob."' While other teachers may enjoy their jobs and seeing students succeed, Alidaee does whatever it takes to give his students the best chance to learn.

Regularly dedicating more than . 14 hours per day to his lectures, notes, exams and tutoring, Alidaee remains upbeat. ¡ ''When you're a teacher, you have to be optimistic and positive," Alidaee says. ''You have to have a passion to teach, or don't teach at all."

Alidaee may be optimistic, but teaching isn't the only thing that keeps him smiling.

"If I have time, I like to play golf and soccer, and watch American movies," Alidaee said. "But my real favorite

DOMINICK ULLOA I THE TELESCOPE

Algebra professor Bahram Alidaee, better known to his students as Bob, said he is wllling to do whatever it takes to help his students understand the material.

hobby is playing with my kids and being with my family- that's my number one choice. Nothing else comes close."

Spending so much time on his work, Alidaee is away from his family more than he would like. But he said it's something that he and his family have come to live with and work around.

"He's dedicated to his work and loves what he does," said Alidaee's wife Carrie. "He works so hard, I worry about him sometimes. He does everything in his heart to help students, especially those who are struggling."

Though she doesn't see her husband as often as she would like, she said she takes consolation from her husband's motivation.

"Knowing that a student was helped makes any of our sacrifices worthwhile," Carrie said.

Sacrificing for his students is something Alidaee said he is proud of. Born a foreigner, he won't tell students where

he is from but said that he sees teaching as a way of repaying the country for all that he has received.

"America was good to me, and I want to be good to America," Alidaee said. ''This country gave me a green card, a college education, citizenship, a job, a beautiful wife and two wonderful kids, a car, a home - everything I could ask for. I want to put something back into this country. The best way to contribute to this country is to be a teacher and to educate America."

Alidaee said he also chose to become a teacher because he loves to help people, a lesson he took from his father.

"My father taught me to help people, no matter what," Alidaee said. "No matter whether you're black or white, male or female, Christian or Buddhist, skinny or fat, young or old, whatever. I just want to help."

Alidaee's mentor and hero, Ricardo Fierro of Cal State San Marcos, was

also a major influence on his teaching.

Fierro taught him to spend as long as it takes to help a student understand.

Alidaee said it was Fierro who taught him to break down the wall between students and teachers, teaching him that it was okay to be friends with his students. This is something that his students are truly grateful for.

Though many students wouldn't choose math as their favorite subject, Alidaee said it was his choice to teach it.

"I love math because it's a mystery, and because it's solving problems," Alidaee said. "And because I speak with an accent in English and not in math, I chose to teach math."

Alidaee teaches Math 15, 50, 60 and 110 - different levels of algebra.

"Of course I'd like the opportunity to teach at another college, but I'd rather teach for Palomar College than anywhere else."

ForiDer gang IDeiDber guides troubled students By l\1andi Reitz-Stendler THE TELESCOPE

If you have ever had an appointment with a counselor at the Career Center, chances are you have come across Frank Puchi. He has been a counselor at Palomar for 17 years and he said he would not have it any other way.

However, there is more to Puchi than giving career advice to students. He is a former gang member that made the choice to leave his former life of crime and despair for a chance to make something of himself.

"I chose the road that hasn't been traveled often to change life in the right direction and did it," Puchi said.

Primarily, Puchi said he works with very at risk students who are in gangs, live in high poverty areas and are high school dropouts. He gives them incentives to get out of their¡current situations and make something out of their lives.

"We show them every part of the world they don't know and once we capture their hearts, we capture their soul," Puchi said. "We make them choose between the old world, and the new world we have introduced them to."

Puchi continues to improve the lives of high-risk students and provide them with what he hopes is a better future.

"Little by little, going down his road has gotten me here," said former gang member and student John Arellano.

"Through the good and bad, he has been there the whole time."

Puchi is a widowed father who lives in San Marcos, but is originally from Oceanside. Growing up, he found it difficult to fit in and fell into the harsh life of Oceanside gangs.

But in high school, there was one man who gave Puchi the opportunity to escape his life of crime. His name was John Paul Jones, and he became one of Puchi's closest friends and his ultimate role model.

As the head football coach, Jones provided Puchi the choice to remain living his previous lifestyle or to take advantage of his athletic potential.

Puchi ended up attending the University of Hawaii and Loyola University in Los Angeles, supported by numerous football scholarships. He graduated with a degree in psychology.

While in college, Jones, whom Puchi was still in contact with, insisted he come back to the high school and work as a probation officer. Next, he took a teaching job at the high school. He later became a counselor for troubled students on the verge of suicide and in need of assistance.

In 1989, Puchi came to Palomar as a counselor. Then in 1990, he was elected by George Boggs, Palomar College president at the time, to be the project coordinator for the Future Teachers Diversity Corps program. It is a program recognized as a leading support group of gang prevention and assistance.

Puchi said he has high hopes for at-risk students who attend continuation schools throughout North County.

"My hopes are to get them out of their world and into Palomar's," Puchi said.

He gives these high-risk students the opportunity and aid to attend college in exchange for regular counseling visits and 200 hours of volunteer work per year. The students must also keep on track of their chosen

educational plan. ''When working with strangers that have had similar experiences as you, it opens up the gates for communication," Puchi said. "I know what they are thinking because of that common ground. I reveal my secrets and tell them I understand and know what they are feeling."

Aside from counseling, Puchi teaches two Chicano Studies classes. He said he brings the history of the Latino population into today's world. These classes, CS 101 and CS 102, delve into the political and cultural history of Latinos. Puchi said many of his students have difficulty understanding English and he teaches them American culture as well as a better

understanding of the English language.

Once motivated in high school by his football coach, Puchi said he strives to make the same impression on his students. He said he plans to stay at Palomar until retirement and maintain his position in the Future Teachers Diversity Corps.

"I will continue to take the responsibility of counseling to develop an ambiance to the student to where they feel comfortable in their new environment," Puchi said.

Not only does Puchi appreciate the life he has been given, but he said he wishes to share it with others he comes across so that they can change their own futures, too.

DOMINICK ULLOA I THE TELESCOPE

Frank Puchi, center, talks with students Alan Estrada, left, and John Arellano. Puchi has been on staff at Palomar as an instructor and counselor since 1989.

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

11

Left: A family investigates a 1932 two-seater, also called a 'deuce coupe.' Below: A 1930s Ford Model A. Like many cars at Cruisin' Grand, both are customized.

PHOTOS BY DOMINICK ULLOA I THE TELESCOPE

• Cl11ssit tillS line G111nd Avenue in Estondido lo1 11 l1ee pub/it till show

By Je1·emy Rosefeld THE TELESCOPE

For many, the numbers 427, 429 and 442 have nothing in common.

However, for some, these numbers signify a time in American automotive history when power was measured in cubic inches instead of liters.

Every Friday night from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. through the end of September, auto enthusiasts can revisit auto history at the seventh annual Cruisin' Grand car show on Grand Avenue in Escondido.

This year's season of Cruisin' Grand kicked off April 7. American-made cars lined Grand Avenue between Juniper Street and Centre City Parkway. This year there are two DJs blasting music from the 50s and 60s through city-installed speakers that run down the center of Grand Avenue.

Festivities also include car trivia competitions, hula-hoop contests and an awards ceremony at 8 p.m. on North Broadway for event-era cars.

Many shops on Grand stay open later to accommodate attendees.

"It doesn't matter how old you are, if you like cars, Cruisin' Grand is a great place to be on a Friday night," said Matt Sadnick, a student at Palomar College. Matt drives a 1973 Mustang.

"I love the cars and the atmosphere."

The Downtown Business Association of Escondido came up with the idea to line Grand Avenue with various collectible cars in 2000. They estimate that more than 400, pre-1974, American-made vehicles are displayed each week. Anyone from the public can bring in hotrods, customs, vintage, classic cars or trucks from works-inprogress to museum-quality show cars.

Last year, an estimated 130,000 people attended Cruisin' Grand. This breaks down to between 5,000 and 14,000 visitors per Friday, according to the DBA. Those numbers are anticipated to grow for the 2006 season. ''We were pleasantly surprised with the first night's turnout - more than 10,000 guests," said Deborah Rosen, the Chief Executive Officer of the DBA. "It's really a sight to be seen."

Late model PT Cruisers are some of the more recent model cars on display at Cruisin' Grand.

These newer vehicles usually park on the streets adjacent to Grand.

Cruisin' Quick Facts

as well as the body.

• When: Friday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. April through September • Where: Grand Avenue between Juniper Street and Centre City Parkway in Downtown Escondido • Cost: Free to bring a car or to view the cars

12

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

Student expresses talent in new CD Bv Kristina Barton

TlfE TELESCOPE

There are few musicians who are singers, painters, poets and are skilled in drawing and graphic design. Palomar student Paige Aufhammer possesses these skills and more. Aufhammer, who describes her music as modern folk, said she is hoping for success with the release of her first compact disk in Paige Aufhammer April.

LMC Records UPCOMING SHOWS: describes Paige as 8 P.M. APRIL 29 ATLA CANTINA, SAN "the kind of person PLAYA MARCOS that doesn't need to 7 P.M. MAY 6AT ELKS CLUB ENCINITAS utter a sound for 8 P.M. MAY 16 AT THE JUMPING TURTLE, you to be aware and SAN MARCOS know they have 'it.'

Somehow that 'it' factor just seems to envelop and permeate the people they come into contact with.''

Aufhammer, an Encinitas native, said she became interested in music in junior high school when she started guitar lessons. During her freshman year in high school, Aufhammer recorded her first three songs in a friend's garage. During high school she played in h er church's youth band. Aufhammer said the experience facilitated her ability to perform, though she admits "I still get nervous every once in a while."

Aufhammer said she has been writing songs for the past three years but it took encouragement and experience before realizing she wanted to make singing and song writing her career.

"In the last year and a half I have become more of a performer and I realized this is what I want to do,"

COURTESY PHOTO

Palomar student Paige Aufhammer released her first album in April. She plays guitar and sings modern folk music. Aufhammer performed in Ireland in October 2005.

Aufhammer said.

Aufhammer writes songs she describes as not only being about her experiences and passions, but also those of other people.

"I feed a lot off other people,"

Aufhammer said. "A lot of my songs are written in other people's shoes.''

Aufhammer said she finds inspiration in her fellow musicians, which further brings her artistic qualities to life. A year ago

Aufhammer performed with a harmonica player. While some might find playing with this type of instrument an unusual or daunting task, Aufhammer said she embraced the opportunity and wrote a blues song.

"I wanted to facilitate an environment where he could play," Aufhammer said.

Aufhammer lists two of her influences as Alison Krauss, a bluegrass musician and Patty Griffin, a wellknown guitarist and singer.

Aufhammer describes them as "the best ever.''

"I listen to a lot of female artists and just respect them so much," Aufhammer said.

Now beyond the realms of her friend's garage, Aufhammer performs at coffee houses and festivals, sharing her love of performing in intimate settings.

"I love writing songs, I love singing and playing for people," Aufhammer said.

In October of 2005 she spent two weeks performing in Ireland. She said it was a milestone in her career.

Aufhammer said experiences gained in her travels, performing in Ireland and studying abroad in Florence, have undoubtedly enriched her music.

She describes her style as "new acoustic folk, with influences from rock, jazz and blues.''

Paige Aufhammer's 11-track, selftitled CD was released in April and is available, along with performance schedules, at www.lmcrecords.com.

To learn more about Aufhammer, visit www.paigeaufhammer.com or check out her music page on Myspace.com.

Career Fair Palomar College Main Campus At the Clock Tower

May 3rd (WEDNESDAY) 1O:OOam to 2:00pm "FREE" TO THE PUBLIC

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

IN BRIEF

fiY

Palomar play gives in-depth look at women during war "Necessary Targets" by Eve Ensler is set to run April 27-30 at the Howard Brubeck Theatre.

The play is about women who dealt with war and its problems. "Necessary Targets' is directed by Dana Case and performed by members of Palomar's Performing Arts Department.

Show times are 4 p.m. April 27, 8 p.m. April 28 and 29, and 2 p.m. April30. Tickets are $12 for the general public, $10 for seniors and staff and $8 for students. For more information, call the Box Office at (760) 744-1150 ext. 2453, or go to the performing arts Web site www. palomarperforms.com.

Free concerts performed every Thursday Palomar will wrap up its Concert Hour season with three original performances: On April 27, Susan Barret plays oboe and Randy Pyle plays guitar in their performance "Duo Cantilena," a mix of Renaissance and contemporary pieces.

On May 4, Palomar's Computer Music Ensemble performs a show of computer-generated music.

On May 11, the last Concert Hour, student talent is showcased in the "Music Student Honor Recital."

Concert Hour is a series of free concerts offered from 12:30 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. every Thursday in Room D-10.

Carlsbad gallery opens new exhibit featuring African Art "Asking for Eyes: The Visual Voice of Southeast Africa," openedApril23 at the William D. Cannon Gallery in Carlsbad.

The exhibit features Zulu walking sticks, beaded fertility dolls, Nguni puppets, native clothing, and other cultural artwork from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, Lesotho and South Africa.

The items, on loan from the Escondido SANA Foundation, will be on display through July 9. For more information, call the Cannon Gallery at (760) 602-2021.

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Just when I thought the Anita Blake Vampire Hunter series would need to start getting shelved in the "steamy romance" genre, "Micah" saved a: the day.

'Micah' The latest S: book in the :; series takes :.= ,oJiOffOJR STARS!

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HAMILTON it back the, O. BOOK13ANITA way it to started - it's a BLAKE, VAMPIRE HUNTER fast-paced, action-packed novel about a badass woman who raises the dead for a living and moonlights as a vampire executioner. I read all 245 pages in one 90-minute sitting.

"Micah" is no. 13 in the series, written by Laurell K. Hamilton. It was released on Feb. 28 and is no. 17 on the New York Times bestseller list for paperback fiction.

It has the usual Anita storyline- she gets called in to handle a complicated zombie-raising job. Also, as usual, once she gets there, Anita learns the job is even more complicated than she thought.

This time around, the zombie-to-be is being raised to give legal testimony for a high-profile mob trial. Anita survives two attempts on her life and an attack by an out-of-control zorn-

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The book also tells the back story of Micah Callahan, Anita's live-in boyfriend. Though Micah was introduced about four books ago, until now, readers knew very little about him.

Like the fact that he turns into a leopard every full moon, but not how he came to be one.

The story is emotionally engaging, which balances nicely with the nail-biting action of the graveyard gunfight.

As much as I honestly could not put the book down, there was one major thing missingvampires!

The Master Vampire of St. Louis and his underlings or rivals have always played major roles in the past books, but they are nowhere in "Micah."

Even if this is the Micah book, Jean-Claude, as Anita's other boyfriend, deserves to at least make an appearance.

In fact, the book was altogether too short. Two hundred and forty-five pages seems like enough to make a decent-sized novel. But when compared to earlier books in the series, this one has been padded with a lot of wasted blank space.

Each chapter begins on a new page and the lines are more spaced apart vertically than her

COURTESY PHOTO

previous books. The publishers should have stuck with the usual format instead of wasting paper to make the book seem longer than it is.

As the series progresses, balancing the increasing depth of the characters with the action and intrigue of Anita's jobs becomes more difficult, but Hamilton manages it well.

The book may be undersized, but the awesome fight and chase scenes more than make up for it.

• I fi SLI!

14

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

-

• CONTRACT: District claims funding short CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

said negotiations on both sides are not too far apart to reach an agreement and the college will work to examine the costs of benefits.

"We certainly do not see the situation at an impasse," Deegan said.

"We have to look at what the college would like (to have) and what the college can afford. All the money is on the table and we'll work to reach a resolution that will satisfy everyone," he added.

However, based on a May revise of the state budget and a series of proposed legislation, additional funding might be on the horizon.

During her report, governing board member Nancy Chadwick said the college could receive up to $2.86 million beginning next year if state equalization funds are approved in June.

While college officials wait to see if the equalization funds promised to under-funded colleges are included as part of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's May budget revisions, Chadwick said the college would aggressively pursue two proposed state senate bills that would modify how the college receives funding for equalization and growth.

The proposed bill, SB 361, would lend an additional $31 million from the state chancellor's office to all 72 com-

munity college districts to offset a new funding formula which would reallocate funds throughout the state rather than to the primarily intended underfunded schools.

"If this bill (SB 361) doesn't pass, this will be a wreck to our financing," Chadwick said. "We have a lot of work ahead of us."

Palomar currently ranks 63rd in state funding out of the 72 community college districts and is fighting for its share of $80 million in equalization funds promised in the initial draft of the 2007 budget.

While the college originally hoped to get $3.5 million in equalization funds, Deegan said the figure was based on old data and the college would more realistically gain $2.8 million.

Another senate bill, SB 1709, is also being proposed that would guarantee funding, despite a college's enrollment or growth.

Under SB 1709, the college would . stand to gain $3 million each year from the state for general operations, regardless of the number of full-time students attending, Chadwick said.

"The need of having a college is not linked to growth," Chadwick said. "If this bill passes, we would have that money every year."

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THE TELESCOPE â&#x20AC;˘ MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

. 15

Jewish group emphasizes community

By Chrystal! Kanyuck THE TELESCOPE

Palomar students will soon be able to socialize and learn more about Jewish culture by joining Hillel- the Jewish Student Union. The Palomar branch will join other Hillel groups at colleges and universities around the country, including Mesa College, San Diego State and Cal State San Marcos.

Club founder Benjamin Nejathaim said that the club is mostly for social interactions and networking among both Jewish and non-Jewish students.

Social events are geared toward college students, and include bowling nights, beach bonfires and pizza nights.

"It's mainly to help students make new friends," Nejathaim said. He added that the group tries to keep student finances in mind.

"Our events are generally either

as the annual celebration i~ Balboa Park.

Besides socializing and cultural inter action, Nejathaim said he would like to see the club give back to the community through service projects.

In the past, Bebchick said, other Hillel groups have had days of community service where students could choose a project such as playing with sick children in a hospital or making food for the homeless.

"I would organize events like a beach clean up or painting over graffiti," Nejathaim said. He added that he would want these events to focus on the needs of North County San Diego.

Upcoming events for Hillel include a Padres game on April 29. For more information, stop by Nejathaim's table in front of the Student Center on April 26 or e-mail him at Benjamine40@hotmail.com.

"Almost every university already has free , or they only cost $5," Nejathaim a Jewish Student Union," Bebchick said.

But the group is not officially at said. She said that by joining Hillel at Palomar yet. Nejathaim has 10 mem- Palomar, students will have a base of friends and acquainbers lined up, but is tances already when still waiting to find a "A lot of times, you'll see they transfer to a local faculty adviser.

"It's important to Jewish students at services, university.

But Hillel does not find an adviser that and they bring non-Jewish will be a good fit for the ignore the religious friends." group," said Amy aspect of Judaism.

Bebchick, San Diego - Benjamin Nejathaim Bebchick said San Hillel program and JEWISH STUDENT UNION FOUNDER Diego State and UCdevelopment coordinaSan Diego have weekly tor. Bebchick's job is to coordinate Shabbat services, and the San Diego events between the different campus Hillel Web site states that the organization also holds holiday services for groups in San Diego, and to help raise funds for Hillel outings. She said she students.

"A lot of times, you'll see Jewish stuwould like to see more Jewish Student Unions at the community college level dents at services, and they bring nonto help students adjust when they Jewish friends," Nejathaim said. He added that the group also participates eventually transfer to a four-year in Middle Eastern cultural events such school.

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL24, 2006

Study findS relition influences students

By Jennifer Martinez KRT NEWS SERVICE

WASHINGTON- A majority of U.S. college students say religion is important in their lives and that they're concerned about the country's moral direction, a finding that could influence the way they vote in upcoming elections, according to a Harvard University Institute of Politics poll that was released Aprilll.

In a telephone survey of 1,200 American college students, 7 out of 10 said religion was somewhat or very important in their lives, and 1 in 4 said they would become more spiritual since entering college.

Fifty-four percent said they were concerned about the moral direction of the country.

Students who were surveyed said abortion policy, stem cell research and gay marriage provoked questions of morality. In a finding that surprised the institute, 50 percent said the U.S. government's response to Hurricane Katrina raised questions of morality.

Sixty-two percent of students who identified themselves as Republicans said religion was losing its influence on American society, while 54 percent of Democrats said it was increasing its influence. Most agreed, however, that a candidate's religion wouldn't affect how they voted.

Jeanne Shaheen, the director of the Institute of Politics, said in a statement that the findings showed that "religion and morality are critical to how students think about politics and form opinions on political issues."

"Students have gone from the 'me' generation, Generation X, to the 'we' generation," Shaheen said.

The poll results make it hard to define college students as liberal or conservative, based on the traditional definitions of those political views, the institute found. While 44 percent of the student population could be considered traditional liberals and 16 percent traditional conservatives, 25 percent could be considered religious centrists and 13 percent fall into the secular centrist category.

American college students could play a major role in upcoming elections.

Eighteen- to 24-year-olds cast 11.6 million votes in the 2004 presidential election, 3 million more than in 2000, according to the institute.

"We do care, we are involved and we do vote," said Caitlin Monahan, 20, a Harvard government major who helped formulate the poll questions and collect data for the survey.

The institute also found that: • College students' opinions about potential 2008 presidential candidates Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., and John McCain, R-Ariz., are split.

Forty percent said they'd vote for Clinton, and another 40 percent favored McCain. The remaining 20 percent said they were unsure which candidate they liked best.

• Only one-third approved of the job President Bush was doing, while 59 percent disapproved. Eight percent were unsure.

• 59 percent said they thought the country was on the "wrong track," 30

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percent said it was on the right track and 12 percent said they didn't know.

• Seventy-two percent said the United Nations, not the U.S., should lead in international crises and resolve conflicts, Sixty-six percent said the U.S. should deploy troops in cases of

genocide or ethnic cleansing.

• Sixty percent said the U.S. should begin to withdraw troops from Iraq.

To see which political classification you'd fall under, go to www.iop.harvard.edu and click on lOP Political Personality Test.

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Full time & part time positions available in Rancho Bernardo for energetic gymnastics coaches.

Experience preferred. Benefits & .401 k possible.

Preschool through levels 1-6 boys and girls. Please e-mail resumes to gkgymnst@aol.com or fax to (858) .451-021.4. Salary commensurate with experience and references. Questions, call (858) .451-020.4.

We're looking for writers, photographers, graphic designers and cartoonists to work under real deadlines creating Palomar College's student-run newspaper. Call (760) 744-1150, ext. 2450 or stop by the newsroom in TCB-1 by Lot 9.

Gymnastics Coaches

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

Co111et~

Win prepares

17

for playoffs

"I thought we were going to get them when we were up 8-7, then In the last conference game of the they came back and beat us out," season, the Palomar women's tennis Dutra said.

Dutra and Nissinoff have played team defeated San Diego City College 8-1, as a tune-up before the together since they were freshman at La Costa Canyon High School. playoffs.

"We play well together, me and The.victory was the last match of the season before the Comets par- Mara. We were just off today," Dutra said. ticipated in the Pacific During the singles Coast Conference tourna- KNIGHTS 1 match sophomore Anne ment on April 20 through COMETS 8 Petit, who is undefeated 22. As of press time, in the conference in the results were not available.

The Comets finished the season past two seasons, continued her 11-2 overall and 8-2 in the Pacific dominance winning 6-1, 6-2.

"There's not much competition.

Coast Conference with both losses coming to No. 1 ranked Grossmont That's where we meet for the real (at the PCC College. Palomar is currently competition Tournament)," Petit -said. ranked second in the PCC. Petit said she is confident and Normally during a game, three doubles matches are played and six ready for the playoffs and is at the singles, but San Diego City College top of her game.

The Comets No. 5 singles player only had five players, which made one of the doubles and one of the Beth Sharatt, swept her singles singles a walkover; similar to a match against Angelica Pinon 6-0, 6-0. default.

"It was an easy match, Sharrat Though Palomar beat City College, coach Ronnie Mancao said said. "I've been working on my game it wasn't easy because City College a lot." made them work for it.

Sharatt said she is looking forThe Comet's only loss came when ward to the playoffs, adding that Mara Nissinoff and Melanie Dutra, she believes the Comets are one of · the team's top players, lost their the stronger teams heading into the doubles match. During the begin- playoffs.

"The girls really had to play, ning of the match Dutra and structure their points and hit a lot Nissinoff were down 5-0.

The game took a turn when the of balls," Mancao ·said, adding that pair worked their way back, tying the team will work on returning the the match at eight a piece. The ball quicker to the opponent for the match went into a tiebreaker, but playoffs.

"We'll be working on more consisthey could not handle the Knights, tency, short angles and stepping losing the tiebreaker 7-5.

HUGH COl I THE TEUSCOPE This comeback mentality was vis- inside the baseline to shorten the ible when Dutra yelled in disgust, lapsed time between the opponent's Sophomore Anne Petit prepares to return a ball during her final league match at Palomar. In tw.o hits," Mancao said. as she hit the ball. years, Petit is undefeated in the Pacific Coast Conference. Palomar beat San Diego City College 8-1

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

Loss could come back to bite Comets

By Marwan Razouk

the state championship game.

With the game tied 2-2, the The Palomar College base- Comets missed an opportunity to ball team lost 3-2 in 11 innings win in the bottom of the ninth inning, squandering a to Chaffey College on bases-loaded, no-out April 13 at Meyers PANTHERS J situation.

With Field.

COMETS 1 Chaffey right-hander Comets manager D a v i d Buck Taylor said McCarthy in for the game, which s t a r t e r was the last nonUP NEXT Brandon conference Villalobos, matchup of the Comets second season, could baseman Tim end up being Deering led of more important with an infield when the playoff single. seedings are Who: San Diego City College What: Pacific Coast Conference game Mter shortannounced later stop Jason When: Noon, Apri129 this season.

Ednoff walked, "Chaffey is a Where: Palomar baseball field center fielder good team," At stake: The Comets continue to Perkins, Tyler Taylor said. "I have ahealthy lead in the PCC, and have reached first on thought it was a defeated the second-place Knights in well-played two of their three matchups this season. an error.

Chaffey mangame. We had \Wit avictor) versus City CoDege on ager Jeff our chances and Aprill/, the Comets could win the PCC Harlow stayed didn't convert." title for the second straight year. with McCarthy The Comets and two pitches (27 -9) split the Easter Series doubleheader, later it paid off. Switch-hitting defeating Mt. San Jacinto third baseman Jeff Tezak, batCollege 15-1 in the game one. ting from the left side for the first Chaffey (22-13) did not play time all game, grounded the first pitch right back at McCarthy, earlier in the day. who started a rare one-two-three The loss to the Panthers mir(pitcher-catcher-first baseman) rored last season's Easter Series, when Palomar lost in double play.

Outfielder Ben Caple groundextra innings to Mt. San ed out to the shortstop on the Antonio College during the final game of the series. The next pitch, ending the inning.

"That might happen to you Comets followed that loss with one-out-of-20 times," Harlow a seven-game conference win"I told our guys, said. ning streak en route to becoming the first San Diego County 'Somebody wants us to win."'

Another solid pitching perteam in 31 years to go as far as

TilE TELESCOPE

formance by Comets starter Andres Esquibel (seven innings, two unearned runs) kept the Comets in the game, who led 1-0 and 2-1. Palomar also received outstanding pitching from losing pitcher Jose Hernandez (3-2) who retired the first nine batters he faced before allowing a go-ahead RBI single to Villalobos in the top of the 11th.

Villalobos was a one-man gang for the Panthers, throwing eight strong innings and going 3-for-4 at the plate, including the game-winner.

"We got a huge game out of Brandon Villalobos," said Harlow of his left-hander. "His effort superceded the effort of anyone else, with respect to their efforts, on our club today."

Comets Outfielder Nick Burke took advantage of a spot start with three hits.

"He's been in and out of the lineup, going in against lefthanders," Taylor said of Burke.

"I'm pleased with what I saw."

In the top of the seventh Burke relayed a throw to Tezak, who fired a strike to catcher Kurt Wideman, which saved the potential go-ahead run from crossing the plate after the Panthers had tied the game earlier in the inning.

"That was instinct," Burke said. "I see a ball, and go down and get it and throw it. Good relay by Tezak, good catch and throw by Kurt."

Taylor said he was also pleased with how the team hung in during the second

MATT NULL I TilE TELESCOPE Sta~!ng pitcher Andres Esquibel threw seven strong innings, but recieved the no dec1s1on. The Comets lost the game in extra innings by the score of 3-2.

game of a doubleheader on one of the warmest days so far this year and despite the disappointing loss, will turn the attention back to the Pacific Coast Conference schedule.

Palomar has a five game lead

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The Palomar College GEAR UP Program is looking for outgoing and energetic students who are seeking a leadership role.

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PALOMAR COLLEGE

We're currently accepting applications for the following positions: Tutor/Mentors (Provide academic assistance in-class and after school))

Office Assistants (Perform computer work data 1

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in the PCC with seven games remaining and could clinch its second straight PCC title when the Comets play San Diego City College, who is in second place, in a two-game series starting April27.

Program Assistants (Assist with evening and weekend programs/trips; activity planning)

Here's what you can expect as aPalomar College GEAR UP employee: •Excellent direct experience for future teachers/educators •Give back to your community and younger students •Work in San Marcos or Vista Middle/High Schools •Participate in fun activities, events, and field trips •Start working right away(~ for the holidays) •Get great work experience for your resume •~9.00 per hour, starting salary •Or, volunteer/serve!

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For information on how to apply

Joe Vasquez, Outreach Coordinator (760) 290-2526 JVasquez@palomar.edu

Calvin One Deer Gavin, Director (760) 290-2521 onedeer@palomar.edu

THE TELESCOPE •

2006

19

• Six Division I tr11nsfers gr11te P11lom11r's btlsebllll roster, 111/ looking for 11 fresh st11rt 111 the tommunity to/lege level Story by John Scafetta • Photo Illustrations by Matt Null THE TELESCOPE

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Tezak, a Mt. Carmel alum, said he decided he needed a fresh start When a Division I athlete transfers to a community college, and a different environment, so he chose Palomar.

11. many think of it as a step down. It means the "It was close enough so I could live at a home for a semester," athlete couldn't cut it playing at the highest Tezak said. ''We're obviously pretty good and it's been great." level of collegiate competition or he couldn't In his first season with the Comets, Tezak has excelled handle it academically, because they were just with a .397 average and 27 RBis, along with playing stellar there to play sports. defense at third base.

But for the six Division I transfers "I think he's one of the better hitters in community college on the Palomar Comets' baseball right now," Taylor said. "It shows it by the amount of schools roster, that couldn't be furthat are offering him scholarships and taking him on ther from the truth.

Second in a four part series trips."

Tyler Perkins, Jeff Tezak, Tezak said he is currently looking into a few schools, Andres Esquibel, Ronnie Loeffler, Nick including Santa Clara, UCLA and Long Beach State, but hasn't Burke and James McLaughlin have all ruled out the possibility of the Major League Baseball draft. played pivotal roles in the Comets quest for "I would have to see how much money I would get and make sure yet another Pacific Coast Conference title.

I would get an education," Tezak said.

The recent barrage of transfers from the top collegiate rankings isn't a surprise to Comets head coach Buck Taylor, because he said most of Unlike Tezak, Palomar relief pitcher Ronnie Loeffler transferred the players were recruited by Palomar out of high from the University of Hawaii where he red shirted his freshman year. He said he decided to take the community college route, school.

Taylor said most four-year schools recruit freshman because it was the best opportunity to receive playing time. to develop, so their playing time is limited.

"I played for Tyler Kincaid (pitching coach) two summers ago," ''To be away from home for the first time, first time in Loeffler said. ''When I heard he was coaching here, I wanted to play college, and not playing, it can wear on a kid," Taylor said. for him again."

"So after a year they might say 'you know what, I need to Loeffler said that the experience has been good so far, and the complay to get better. I'm not going to play here for another petition and coaching staff is strong. two years."'

"I didn't expect the competition to be as good as it is," Loeffler said.

That's when Taylor said they look toward the com- "I was figuring D-I ball players coming to community college, it munity college level to gain experience on the field, would be a big difference, but it isn't." while receiving an education at a lower cost.

He said this experience has taught him to be a better pitcher by ''We're a successful program," Taylor said. getting the necessary innings and work.

"Four-year schools recruit from programs "You don't get better from bullpen (work) at a four-year school," that win and we've been successful."

Taylor said. ''You get better in pitching in games and getting at bats, we offer that to them and give them an opportunity to be seen by other schools."

Perkins, the Comets center fielder who transferred from the University of Portland, played one season as a Another transfer that has bolstered the Comets' pitching staff is full-time starter for the Pilots in 2003. No.2 starter Andres Esquibel, who transferred from San Diego State ~'tf., While Perkins worked hard to be able to start after just one season with the Aztecs under head coach and future 1,~ as a freshman, he had a terrible experience as the MLB hall-of-farner Tony Gwynn.

Esquibel, who has a record of7-2 this season, has been a large part team finished the season with a record of 9-47.

"My experience in Portland was so devastating that it of Palomar's success this season - which has opened up other doors kind of turned me off from baseball," said Perkins, who took for him. two years off from baseball after his freshman year. "I wasn't havFollowing in the footsteps of several past Palomar players, ing fun and I worked really hard. We didn't get any results from Esquibel has committed to the University of Kansas next season and the work we put in, and it didn't seem worth it anymore." will continue the Palomar to Kansas pipeline.

The losing, coupled with the unfamiliar rainy weather was too "He's a big game pitcher, and that's the beauty of community colmuch for the Hawaiian native to endure, so he looked to Palomar for lege," Taylor said. ''You have to rebuild every year, you can't sit back a better experience. After hearing about the Comets' success from his and wait for your guys to develop and have them for two to three summer ball coach, Keith Koneji, Perkins decided to take a chance years." and play at the community college level.

"I heard that they (Palomar) were one of the top JC's in California," Perkins said. "So I thought instead of staying in As for the other two Division I transfer's, reliever James Portland where it was freezing cold, try something that's like Hawaii McLaughlin (U.C. Irvine) and reserve outfielder Nick Burke (U.C. and a little warmer."

Riverside), Taylor said they continue to improve as they get their Following the two seasons off, Perkins is now the leadoff hitter and chances to shine. the main catalyst at the top of the Comets' lineup with an average of "In James's situation, every time he pitches he gets better, which .333 and an on-base-percentage of .452. is what we want," Taylor said. ''Nick has been playing, but playing kind of late."

Taylor said that Burke is strong both offensively and defensively, Much like Perkins, Comet's third baseman Jeff Tezak was also which has opened up the opportunity of starting. Taylor added that searching for a school that would give him a great environment to Burke has the ability to start at any other school.

As the season winds down these six players continue to improve play. "(Palomar's) close to home," Taylor said. ''They can come back and will look toward their future - either heading back to a top colhome and get their school taken care of at a reasonable cost and get legiate school or move in a different direction. They know that their a great baseball experience, preparing them to transfer academical- experience at Palomar will be beneficial for them in whatever direcly and athletically." tion they take.

After having a successful freshmen season at Cal State "I'm trying to end on a positive experience," Perkins said. "To be Northridge, with an average of .317 as the starting second baseman happy and have fun playing baseball." for the Matadors, Tezak looked back to North County.

"Sometimes you have to do what makes you happy," Tezak said.

The Starting Over series profiles current athletes who have attended ''You go to people who want to have a good time, you try to better a four-year college and have transferred and are now continuing their yourself and then where you are brings you down." athletic careers at Palomar.

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IMPROVING WITH TIME

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20

• MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006

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;._,wm~,1f :tt-Wr. Bringing" patien~e and maturity to' t he golf course is not m).ly key, but also crucialfor success.

This has never been exercised or illustrated more than it has been in Palomar College's own golf stand-out Lyndon Barril.

Barril not only shows poise and intensity for his own game, but he also brings a certain maturity that proves to be paving the way for his younger teammates.

Barril is on.e of the only sophomores on Palomar's nearly all-freshman team.

"He's more mature, so the freshman feed off that and improve our own games," said teammate Alberto Pesqueira, who said he has become close friends with Barril this season. "We always go to him and ask more about the game, making it more understandable."

Pesqueira is one of the many freshman golfers on the team and said sometimes in golf you blow your fuse, lose focus and are unable to escape the moment. But maturity comes in to play, when your pulse is running high and you are still able to regain that needed focus on the next shot.

"It is a lot easier for the younger kids to get all hyped up and worry about the score, but he calms us down," Pasqueira said. "He is older than all of us."

Although the team is young, Barril described them as having a very close-knit relationship.

"This is the closest group of team members that I've gotten with than any other team I've , played on,~ Barril said.

Barril sa~dthe team's goal is to win the regional and state title.

"Our team has the potential of being the best in our conference," said Barril who currently has an average par of 74 in the 14 matches this season.

Barril has a list of awards under ''his belt, including being the four-time Most ~Valuable Player for varsity golf at his high school. Last season B;nril earned AU-Orange Empire Conference honors. He has also played ·as an amateur in two professional events held in Asia, as well a~ competed for four consecutive years in the Junior World Championship at :forrey Pines.

Lyndon, 22, was introduced to the g~me at the young age of 8, around the same time his father, Joseph Barril, picked up the game. Joseph, who is a cardio vascular surgeon, was on a routine

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Philippines when he was 10 years old. Ten yeats later Lyndon moved back to the U.S, speci.fica!,ly to San Marcos, where he has lived ever since.

Lyndon described the golf scene in the Philippines as not having as much talent as 1n America. With the island being so small, Barril said he was not exposed to experienced players and the knowledgeable coaches that he has encountered in America.

"I was a big fish in a small pond," Ly11don said.

"When I moved over here I was a big fish in a very big pond."

Palomar's head coach Jonas Crawford said the experience of living in the Philippines and America has not only helped Lyndon with his golf game, but also helped his understanding of people and how the world works.

"His maturity comes from the time he has spent in different cultures," Crawford said. "He has a better perspective of where people live, how they act and how to maintain a good person~· ality."

Maintaining a level of patience on the golf course is very important to Lyndon.

"He is very consistent and it comes from the fact that he is able to keep his wits about himself by not blowing up," Crawford said. "He stays in ' the present and focuses on the task at hand."

Lyndon described golf as more of a mentally~ challenging game than physical, teaching him about life along the way.

"It shows what kind of person you are, when you play," Lyndon said. He added many people c are quick to loose their temper when they hit a bad shot. Some throw clubs and others yelL "Most of the time I just shrug it off and move Sophomore lyndon Barril is one .of Palomar's top golfers and on to the next shot," Lyndon said. "There's no ltas led the team to a.l0-3 Orange Empire Conference record point in dwelling on it." and averaged a par 74. Barril hopes to trai!Sfer to a four-year Lyndon plans to transfer to a four-year college eoflege after Palomar and to one day play in the PCA. after Palomar, and would one day like to qualifY business trip to the Philippines when a fellow for the Asian Tour and after that, the PGA Tour.

"If all else fails then I will get into the business group of surgeons invited him to play golf. After refusing several times, Joseph joined and was of golf, such as working for one of the big golf, companies," Lyndon said. hooked.

Lyndon still gets•on the co~rs.e with the man After returning ~ome Joesph decided to ~ry hls hand out l;lt iih,e.local driving range and Lyndon who was responsible for introducing him to the tagged along. From that day forward, Lyndon sport - his father. '"He feels good on the course, and then feels bad because I'm always beating interest in golfbegan to blossom.

Lyndon was born in America, but moved to the him," Lyndon said. "He's proud of me."