The Telescope 62.22 by The Telescope

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR

PALOMAR COLLEGE, SAN MARCOS, CALIF.

An ASG divided MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009

‘Star Trek’ not just for Trekkies

VO L. 62 , NO . 22

PAGE 9

THE-TELESCOPE.COM

During student elections, sides drawn around senator CRYSTAL EVANS THE TELESCOPE

The Associated Student Government has split into two factions over the current vice president, who is running for president of the Associated Student Government for the 2009-2010 school year. The rift escalated last week to claims of voter tampering that held up the ASG election results that were supposed to be released May 8. The controversy started two weeks ago with rumors that Vice President Claudia Duran was going to be impeached by senators at an ASG meeting. Sherry Titus, director of the Office of Student Affairs, said she had no impeachable evidence. “The information that I have does not warrant an impeachment,” Titus said at the meeting May 6. “If anything it warrants a criminal act.” Titus would not comment further, citing personnel matters. But she did caution senators about starting rumors. “You can set yourself up for slander, harassment and discrimination. Impeaching someone can’t be personal, it has to be business.”

As of press time, there is no bill of impeachment against Duran. For her part, Duran wouldn’t explain what caused the controversy. “My personal business is my personal business,” Duran said. “Just as any other senator’s business is their personal business.” Duran added that she is running for president because “I am all about the students.” On May 4, the polls opened and the tensions in the ASG hit an all-time high, with accusations of illegal voting practices being raised against Andrew Bissell, the other candidate for ASG president, and those campaigning for him. Shaun Briggs, a former senator, is an advocate for Bissell’s campaign and among those under scrutiny by the Office of Student Affairs, Briggs said. Briggs denied wrongdoing and said his goal is to get the best person in office. “It’s only anti-Claudia in one aspect: None of us support her,” Briggs said. “The president of ASG does not support her. None of the senators support her. That should tell you something.” For more on the elections, visit www.the-telescope.com.

KELLEY FOYT

Burning Down

| THE TELESCOPE

The San Marcos Fire Department had a controlled burning of a deserted house May 7, just off Autumn Road. The smoke, which had several worried there was another brush fire, could be seen from the southern end of Palomar’s San Marcos campus.

Palomar offers a variety of language courses JAVIER TOVAR THE TELESCOPE

The spring semester at Palomar College is now in its final week and students interested in learning an additional language can plan to enroll in a course next semester. Palomar College offers a variety of foreign languages that are

transferrable to four-year schools including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish. In addition, Palomar offers Native languages and American Sign Language. “Learning other languages altered gray matter — the area of the brain which processes information - in the same way exercise

builds muscles.” according to researchers from University College London, who studied the brains of 105 people — 80 of whom were bilingual. Palomar College student Geovanny Cuenca said, “The Chinese teachers at Palomar have very good techniques to TURN TO LANGUAGE COURSES PAGE 3

H1N1, more than just the swine flu CRYSTAL EVANS THE TELESCOPE

The H1N1 virus, also known as the swine flu, has been declared a pandemic stage five, meaning that a pandemic is imminent, according to the World Health Organization. As of press time, there are no suspected or confirmed cases at any Palomar College campus, however, Mission Hills High School, less than two and a half miles from the San Marcos campus, was closed on May 4-5 due to a possible case of swine flu. With the growing number of CHUCK BERMAN | MCT CAMPUS cases in San Diego County, some Swine flu is just one of three different influenza viruses found in the H1N1 virus. students are taking extra steps to

OPINION

Immigrant aid: pros and cons PAGE 6

FOCUS

STDs are on the rise PAGE 7

keep themselves safe. “I have been washing my hands more and have been more conscious of my health,” Palomar student Michelle Brown said. “I’m also not sharing things as much. Those affected are those who seem to already have weak immune systems, so if you’re healthy I don’t think you’ll be affected as much.” However, not all students seem to think it’s a big risk. “I don’t get sick fast,” Palomar student Taylor Sharpe explained when she said she wasn’t worried about the outbreak. No matter what one’s take on their risk of infection, it is important that people get educated

about the virus. “Meat sales have gone down because people are so quick to think they can get it that way,” Brown said.“People don’t do their research. Not being educated on what’s going on is the biggest concern.” The H1N1 virus cannot be contracted from eating pork, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Though cases of swine flu have occurred before, this epidemic is the first one to spread human-tohuman, making it a much bigger threat. According to the CDC, pigs

SPORTS

Comets end year as No. 1 PAGE 16

TURN TO H1N1 VIRUS PAGE 3

2 | CAMPUS BEAT

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009

Barona tribe to award scholarships

CAMPUS CALENDAR

There is a new scholarship opportunity available to students who are studying in the fields of horticulture, turf grass management, natural resources or environmental sciences. As part of the Environmental Sustainability Program, the Barona Band of Mission Indians has introduced the Barona Sustainable Environment Scholarship. The program focuses on energy efficient practices and programs like recycling, wildlife preservation and water recovery programs. Following an interview and a review of a student's application, the tribe will award four finalists with $1,000 with an additional $1,000 awarded to one of the four finalists. The scholarship can be used for tuition, books or living expenses. To be eligible students must be full-time students with a 3.0 grade point average or higher and be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits per semester. They must have completed 30 semester units at an accredited college or university. Fifteen of their units must be in horticulture, turf grass management, natural resources or environment sciences. The deadline for applications is July 15, and the winner will be announced on Aug 1. For additional information and to download the application, visit www.communityrelations.barona.com.

Monday, May 11 BLOOD DRIVE Phi Theta Kappa and Palomar College’s Health Services are sponsoring an American Red Cross on campus from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 11 and May 1315 in parking lot 11. All participants will receive an American Red Cross T-shirt and a chance to win a one-year gym membership. To make an appointment or for more information, contact Health Services at (760) 744-1150 ,ext. 2380.

Tuesday, May 12 FILM SERIES In keeping with its theme this semester, the Palomar College’s Communications Department’s final film “The Unexpected” will be a surprise. Rated R, it will be shown at 6:30 p.m. in room P-32.

HOW TO GET HIRED AT UCSD A free career workshop, in which a guest speaker will give pointers on how to get hired at UCSD, will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Student Services Center Governing Board Room. Community members are welcome.

Palomar’s police chief put on leave

Wednesday, May 13 CAREER FAIR

According to the Palomar College Police Department, Chief Officer Thomas Plotts has been on administrative leave since October of 2008. ROB BACON|TELESCOPE Plotts is allegedly on leave due to “ethical reasons,” according to a source inside Campus Police. Before becoming Palomar’s police chief, This chromogenic print, called “Zen Master,” was made from a 4x5” negative by Kevin Winter. This artPlotts was the Director of Public Safety work is part of the Student Art and Photography Exhibition at the Boehm Gallery May 2 - 16. Programs at Palomar and prior to that served a co-chair for the California Community College Association for Occupational Education. According to the Palomar Police Web site officer Anthony C. Cruz is currently filling in as chief officer. Administrators would not comment on The San Marcos Farmers Market opens May San Diego Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is Plotts’ leave, citing personnel issues. Whether 13 at 3 p.m. in parking lot B of Cal State San May 30 at Vista Grande Community Church in or not Plotts will return remains unclear. Marcos at 333 South Twin Oaks Valley Road, Tierra Santa. It is a unique opportunity for surSan Marcos, with an opening ceremony at 4 vivors of suicide loss to meet with other surp.m., according to a press release. vivors having a similar loss. The market will be open every Wednesday According to a press release, coffee and regfrom 3 p.m. -7 p.m. It will run year round, with istration begins at 10 a.m. and the program ongoing free parking for the event in parking ends at 2 p.m. It costs $10 per person, which lot B. includes lunch, but the fee can be waived if The purpose of the market is for local small needed. The Escondido Education Complex has a growers to get fresh food directly to the peonew bilingual career counselor on board. The morning starts with sharing the names Donna Carter, a first-generation college stu- ple, and SDCF sees it as a way to reach the of the loved ones and lighting a candle in their dent, received her master’s degree in counsel- community. There will be fresh fruits, vegeta- memory.After lunch they will break into groups ing psychology from San Diego State bles, herbs, flowers, baked goods, hot food and according to their loss. University and brings 14 years of experience as unique arts and crafts available to purchase. Teens between the ages of 13 and 18 are invitThe market is food stamp accessible; out of ed to participate this year and will have their a social worker, which includes working for the San Diego County Department of Mental 37 farmer markets in San Diego County, the own professional counselor-led group in the San Diego County Farm Bureau is the only one afternoon. Health. Carter also has 10 years of experience work- that allows customers to use food stamps. To register go to www.soslsd.org/home.htm, The SDCF is a private non-profit organiza- download the flier and register using PayPal or ing for the San Diego Community College tion that has been providing a voice for agricul- a credit card. May 26 is the registration deadDistrict. “Students spend more time choosing a car ture in San Diego County since 1913.It current- line. For additional questions, please contact versus choosing a career,” Carter said. She ly has 5,000 members. Camille Currier at (619) 482-0297. added that students should visit a career counselor at the beginning of their education. STUDENT CONDUCT CODE VIOLATION Currently Palomar College has 18 full-time counselors and 42 part-time counselors, A Palomar student accumulated $960 including counselors from the Extended worth of fines in a one month period. The Opportunity Programs and Services and TRIO fines, which were all parking citations, were Student Support Services. There are an estinever paid. Campus Police referred the stumated 10 counselors who are bilingual. dent to Student Affairs on April 17. Carter is available to meet with students all day on Wednesdays, Thursdays in the afterLOCKER BURGLARY RECOVERED VEHICLE noon and Friday mornings. Students who want to schedule an appointment can stop by the Bolt cutters were used to cut open a lock A stolen 1997 Saturn was recovered on Student Services Center building on the San and break into a locker at the F Building on April 21 by Campus Police. The vehicle had Marcos Campus or Student Services at the been stolen four days prior. No other infor- the San Marcos campus on April 16. Escondido site. One textbook valued at $250 was stolen. In addition, students can visit www.palo- mation is currently available. There are no known suspects. Anyone with Anyone with information on this crime mar.edu/counseling to make appointments information about this incident is encourand get further information on the counseling may contact Campus Police at (760) 744- aged to contact Campus Police at ext. 2289. 1150, ext. 2289. department.

Hold it together

Farmer’s market opens at CSUSM

Suicide loss group brings hope to area

Bilingual counselor joins district staff

Police Blotter

Palomar College’s Career Fair will start at 10 a.m. and run until 2 p.m. on the sidewalk between the SSC Building, Clock Tower and Student Union Area. All students, staff and community members are welcome. Come out and talk to college representatives and company recruiters.

TRANSFER RECOGNITION CEREMONY The Transfer Center will recognize all Transfer Students for 2009. A catered meal and entertainment will be provided and friends and family are welcome. It begins at 5 p.m. in the San Marcos Civic Center, 755 Civic Center Loop, San Marcos, Calif.

Thursday, May 14 CONCERT HOUR Palomar music students will be honored, with varied performances by the semester’s most deserving students. Concert Hour is Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. in Performance Lab D-10.

Saturday, May 16 PRESIDENT’S CONCERT Palomar College’s Symphony, Chorale and Chamber Singers, three premier Palomar performing groups, collaborate to present Beethoven’s Mass in C in this annual spring event. Directed by Dr. David Chase, tickets can be purchased online at www.palomarperforms.com or by calling ( 760)744-1150, ext. 2453. Prices are $12 for general admission, $10 for seniors and staff and $8 for students.

What’s up? Do you know something we should cover? Let us know. To submit story tips or events for the campus calendar, e-mail us at telescope@palomar.edu or call (760) 891-7865.

CAMPUS WEATHER

Thursday, May 14

Friday, May 15

Saturday, May 16

Sunday, May 17

73˚/53˚

72˚/53˚

75˚/55˚

76˚/55˚

SUNNY

MOSTLY SUNNY

SUNNY

Monday, May 11

Tuesday, May 12

Wednesday, May 13

75˚/53˚

72˚/53˚

SUNNY

NEWS | 3

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE pus. Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Luiseño, Cupeño and Nahuatl are among those languages. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Rachel von Wistinghausen, a student at teach Chinese.” Cuenca expressed his Palomar, said the opportunities for practicdesire to learn Chinese comes as a result of ing the language outside the classroom having several friends living in China. were “pretty limited.” Wistinghausen is Cuenca knows English and Spanish, learning German at Palomar and at home with family members. Wistinghausen Chinese is his third language Among the extra curricular activities is added, “They definitely need German the French Club whose purpose is to pro- tutors here.” Garret Bishop, a student at Palomar, who mote interest in the French language and culture and the Japanese Culture Club is learning French said, “Rosetta Stone gets whose purpose is to participate in social a little boring after a while.” Rosetta Stone is a language-learning software that stuactivities. dents at Palomar use. Bishop Both are stuadded that he finds it a bit difdent organizaficult to practice his newly tions at Palomar learned foreign language on for those who campus. want to take an Cuenca said he hopes to active role on establish a Chinese club, where campus and are students can practice their tied to language — Geovanny Cuenca Chinese. and culture for Palomar student Wistinghausen said, “I feel I f u r t h e r know basics. I can carry on a enhancement. Carlos von Son, a professor at Palomar, simple conversation.” Wistinghausen is offers a summer theater class where stu- completing her second semester of German dents can participate in the play this spring. The native languages offered at Palomar “Espanglish.” The Spanish used in the play is relatively simple, thus making is easy for are Luiseño, Cupeño and Nahuatl. “It’s a whole different world and you beginners to practice and gain confidence. Students who enroll in the class can prac- learn about the culture,” said Martha tice their Spanish and the same time will Collins, assistant for the American Indian Studies Department, “but hardly anyone be exposed to others speaking it. Other then clubs and plays, opportunities wants to take.” referring to learning a are limited at Palomar for students to apply native language. With the recent budget cuts, the college their newly learned language skills on camrequires a minimum of 17 students in a classroom in order for a course to continue. Collins mentioned that finding 17 students at Palomar who are willing to enroll in a Nahuatl course is difficult. According to the Department of Foreign Languages website, “Beyond the immediate practical advantages of foreign-language study, there is also the profound personal enrichment that comes from the first-hand knowledge of other peoples and cultures.”

LANGUAGE COURSES

“

The Chinese teachers at Palomar have very good techniques to teach Chinese.

”

H1N1 VIRUS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

complicate the influenza virus, as they are able to contract both human influenza and avian influenza. The current outbreak is a mixture of the swine flu, bird flu and the human flu, according to the CDC. A pig that was already ill with swine flu was then infected with the bird flu. These two viruses mutated and then it was spread to a human who had

ILLUSTRATION BY YINGLING | MCT CAMPUS influenza. Because the virus is able to mutate, the genes from the three different influenza viruses mixed to become the H1N1 virus. The element of human influenza is what makes this strain so contagious. In order to avoid getting ill, the CDC advises that individuals wash hands regularly, get sufficient sleep and practice healthy habits. If you or someone in you household becomes ill, stay home for at least 14 days to prevent spreading the virus to others.

| OPINION

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY MAY 11, 2009

Thug rule in Washington RITUPARNA BASU UNDERCURRENT

JOSEPH BONNET | THE TELESCOPE

Economic crisis affecting obesity? CASEY OLAYA THE TELESCOPE

Obesity in Americans has been steadily increasing for the past few years. Poverty is fueling this epidemic. According to Director Jeffrey P. Koplan of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Obesity is an epidemic and it should be taken as seriously as any infectious disease epidemic.” Obesity accounts for more than 300,000 deaths each year, according to the CDC, with contributing factors going beyond the preconceived notion of personal motivation. The cost of living a healthy lifestyle may be the culprit. With today’s dwindling economy, it is no surprise that people are more likely to buy only what they can afford. University of Washington professor Adam Drewnowski released a statement stating that foods such as french fries and soda, which are produced from subsidized crops, cost nearly five times less per calorie than unsubsidized foods, like broccoli and fruit juices. If an American wanted to eat five dollars worth of vegetables they would only be consuming

MONDAY MAY 11, 2009

100 calories, while that same amount of money spent on a hamburger would result in an unnoticed 500 calorie consumption. If the cost of healthy food does not decrease, Denowski said that obesity will continue to be a problem for the working poor. According to a recent survey done by the American Psychological Association eight out of 10 Americans say the economy is now a considerable factor of stress that can lead to unhealthy stress eating. Dr. Elissa Epel of the University of San Francisco stated, “Being of low social status can put someone under chronic stress.” Other factors contributing to the excessive weight gain of Americans can be marked up as a cultural phenomenon, with specific ethnic groups strung in the middle of the debate. According to the Population Reference Bureau in 2006 for every eight white Americans under the poverty line, there are 20 people in racial or ethnic minority groups. The rate of poverty in these ethnic groups is comparatively high, and over 25 percent of Americans today are overweight. A national study showed 37

percent of black women in America are obese, 33 percent of Mexican women and a mere 24 percent of white women. In black women alone with 66 percent being overweight and 37 percent obese, only 30 percent are actually at or below the ideal body weight. Although the obesity epidemic is alive and growing, it’s not unstoppable: It can only grow if we buy into the “overweight market” of unhealthy foods. With fast food restaurants showing little effort to provide more nutritious meals the only other feasible option would be food stamps, which can be hard to come by. Barbara Berry, of the Produce for Better Health Foundation has created an organization which supports adding more fruits and vegetables to the federal foodassistance program Women, Infants, and Children. According to Berry the organization currently has very limited options. Battling obesity seems nearly impossible for those in poverty. Instead of pointing the finger at Americans for being overweight and obese, the government instead needs to step in and reform its programs so those who can’t afford better options can have hope.

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR

VOLUME 63 NUMBER 22

The Telescope is published 11 times per semester. Opinions expressed in the newspaper are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily represent those of the entire newspaper staff, Palomar faculty and staff members or the governing board trustees.

Bank of America CEO Ken Lewis has sparked controversy in his recent testimony to regulators. Lewis has revealed he was threatened, by then-Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson and Chairman of the Fed Ben Bernanke, to buy Merrill Lynch, a company drowning in financial losses of billions of dollars. Lewis explained that Paulson and Bernanke presented him with an ultimatum: if he did not buy the ailing corporation, they would fire him and his Board of Directors. Recognizing that Bank of America, a company with its own financial problems, would not be capable of assuming Merrill Lynch’s financial woes, Paulson and Bernanke assured Lewis that Bank of America would receive TARP funds to compensate. Moreover, Lewis was forced to keep all this information hidden from his shareholders. Paulson and Bernanke’s stated goal in preventing Lewis from revealing the developments of the company to its own shareholders was to “restore financial confidence.” Now that their role has been disclosed (which was bound to happen), the exact opposite will occur. Indeed, this story is receiving so much press precisely because of the complete lack of financial confidence it inspires. How is financial confidence to be restored when the government is engaging in such shady deals? How can an investor trust he is receiving the information he is legally obligated to receive when he knows the government itself may be scheming in the back room to keep this information from him? How can the market stabilize in an environment in

ADDRESS | The Telescope, Palomar College 1140 W. Mission Road, San Marcos, CA 92069 NEWSROOM | Room MB-1 PHONE | (760) 891-7865 FAX| (760) 891-3401 E-MAIL | telescope@palomar.edu ADVERTISING E-MAIL | telescopead@palomar.edu STAFF WRITERS | SARA BURBIDGE, HEATHER CAMERON, PAT CUBEL, SHOKO HACHIYA, MELISSA SHANTE, SHAUN KAHMANN, BARBARA ANN MAC LAREN, CHRIS MEYER, CASEY OLAYA, TYPHANIE SHARFNER, JAVIER TOVAR, LESETTE TUNNELL, KARA VERMEULEN, MATT WADLEIGH, GRAIANNE WARD, ROBIN WITT STAFF CARTOONISTS | JOSEPH BONNET

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS | PAT CUBEL, CIARA KEITH

which insider trading, considered a crime when private individuals do it, is actively done by public officials under the pretense of “public good?”Why would people feel confident in the economy when their wealth might slip away at any moment because the decisions they made were based on information deliberately distorted by the government? Paulson and Bernanke have not only failed to restore any confidence in the American economy, they have actively worsened the lives of many, such as those of the stockholders of Bank of America who made purchases and investments under the false premise that Bank of America’s finances were much stronger than they really were. As with all government projects wrapped in the veneer of good intentions, Paulson and Bernanke did not hesitate to exploit the individual American to achieve their allegedly noble ends. Consider the choice they presented to Lewis: to either face the wrath of these politicians or commit fraud. It is abhorrent that our nation has come to the state in which thugs, masked as our political leaders, have no problem threatening to ruin people’s lives unless they agree to be complicit in a crime. Furthermore, they then later throw that same individual under a bus, evidenced by their silent endorsement of the intense criticism Lewis is receiving for deceiving his shareholders. Our government today is not a protector of our rights, like it was at the inception of this nation. Instead, Ken Lewis’ testimony makes it quite clear these days the government unashamedly sacrifices our rights to meet its own agenda.

GRAPHIC BY MCT CAMPUS

The Telescope welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters must be typewritten, under 300 words and include the author’s first and last names, major and phone number. Phone numbers will not be published. Letters can be e-mailed to telescope@palomar.edu or delivered to the newsroom in Room MB-1. The Telescope reserves the right to edit letters for space and grammatical errors and not to print lewd or libelous letters. Letters must be received one week prior to the newspaper’s publication to be considered for inclusion.

ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS

CALIFORNIA NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION

CFAC CALIFORNIA FIRST AMENDMENT COALITION

JOURNALISM ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY COLLEGES

OPINION | 5

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

SPEAK OUT!

What are your concerns regarding the H1N1 (swine flu) “epidemic”?

“

It makes people want to wear masks, but more people die of AIDS. No one is increasing condom use.

”

— Eric Patino,broadcast

“

I’ve read up on it, but I am not changing my habits.

”

Got a problem? Auntie G can help! Dating, money, school, whatever — send your questions to askauntgertie@aol.com.

Dear Aunt Gertrude:

I just started a job at a software firm and share an office with a woman in her 50s. She is very nice and very helpful but she has a daughter in Florida who is having marital troubles. They talk often on the phone, and it is hard not to overhear the conversation. Now mind you, I am no prude. But I really don’t want to hear about her daughter’s husband’s sexual shortcomings in details that would make a truck driver blush, or hear a 50-year-old woman instruct her daughter on ways she can achieve an orgasm without her husband. Frankly, it’s just creepy! When she is done with these conversations she just goes back to work as if nothing has happened. Am I overreacting?

In Cubicle Hell

Dear In Hell:

— Blaine Morrow, 3C Media Solutions administrator

“

I think it is blown out of proportion. My boss bought $400 worth of Purell hand sanitizer for employees. I think that is ridiculous.

”

— Melissa Celikel,sociology

“

I don’t think you are overreacting. Just for personal reference, people over 50 do have sex. But most of us have the good taste not to flaunt it in public. This is monstrously inappropriate in any work setting. Were I you, I would tell her that it is a very small office and her conversations containing sexual advice are making you uncomfortable. Tell her you would appreciate it if she could have them at home or when you are not in the office. If that doesn’t work go to your superior. California has very strong workplace sexual harassment laws, which this case falls squarely in. Believe me, the problem will be resolved. To all of you who wrote to Aunt Gertrude this semester, I would like to thank you. I hope you have a great summer — and if you should have any problems, Aunt Gertrude will be back in the fall. P.S. To the young man with the sores: I read your letter, and you need a doctor, not an advice column!

Socialism may cure what ails us SPENCER MEYER THE TELESCOPE

I think it is totally overblown. From what I have heard, it is an ordinary flu that has mutated and it has not proved to be any stronger.

”

—Tara Fetherolf,astronomy

“

I am a Christian and God’s word says to fear him, so I am not worried about the swine flu.

”— Tairrans Haynes

JOSEPH BONNET | THE TELESCOPE

Democrat, republican, fascist or communist. No matter what political ideology one subscribes to, most everyone can agree that the current economic state could be better. The cure could be socialism. I know I used the “S” word, but do not call the FBI just yet, Sen. McCarthy. Socialism sets aside greed in a time of suffering and places the emphasis on the welfare of the people, whereas with capitalism, business is unrestricted and the people are left to fend for themselves. Fending for one’s own welfare is not necessarily wrong, but the current state of the nation does not seem to be faring very well on these traditions. As unemployment continues to grow from San Diego to Detroit with inflation on its back, many citizens are wondering what the government is going to do about it. The problem with that statement is “government.” The current economic system in place in the United States is capitalism, which translates as private entities managed and produced by individuals, not the government. Many believe the government is at fault for getting us into this unhealthy state. In a sense it was, but only in that the government did not act enough and regulate before things proceeded as they did. The opposite of deregulation is more government intervention. The last time any American heard about socialism, they were listening to another European plot to control individuals as they recalled socialism being similar to the plan China was implementing on Vietnam: communism. Communism is the belief that everything should be shared and all shall be owned by the govern-

ment, which, contrary to popular misbelief, does not share the same definition as socialism. Sweden, a socialist country, is an illustrative example of the many advantages of the economic theory. Striving toward equality for all, regardless of economic, social or political standing, Sweden provides services for everyone and only accepts an equal proportionate amount of everyone’s income to provide these services. The Swedish economy is fueled by its technology sector, which is a result of its state-funded education. The United States only funds education through high school, which leaves its citizens to pay for their further education if they would like to continue.This limits many creative minds as economics stand in their way between their dream career and themselves. Instead, they settle for a debtless future at the local fastfood establishment. Named as the most creative country in the world by prominent United States Economist, Richard Florida, Sweden provides the world with well-educated and creative individuals. His index by which he ranked all of the countries was based on creativity most useful to business: talent, technology and tolerance. Recognizing the creative impact Sweden is having on the world, more than 1,200 United States corporations have established a branch of their company in Sweden. Populated by nine million citizens as opposed to our 300 million citizens, the Swedish unemployment rate is 3 percent lower than ours. Three percent does not sound like that much though, right? The amount of people unemployed in the United States is equal to the population in Sweden: 9 million. According to the Organization

for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States should follow in Sweden’s socialist steps as it would lead to less inflation. Higher pay and the social involvement of the government has been a fueling motive for the lack of inflation. Imagine lower gas prices. Now bring your socialist dream back to reality. The largest criticism of socialism is taxes, as Sweden pays almost double the amount that Americans do. What they pay the government in taxes comes back to the citizens in the form of services and equality. The Swedish government pays, as a result of taxes, education through college, healthcare for all, a stable economy — not controlled by business executives but by officials elected by the people — and a more stable and effective Social Security system, according to the Heritage Foundation. Democracy is a type of government, and is thus not mutually exclusive from socialism. Socialism is an economic theory, and it does not tell the government how to operate. Sweden has a parliament and a democracy. Their citizens elect representatives and a prime minister, similar to our president. Sweden has proved to have a more effective democracy as supported by the Economic Intelligence Index published in 2008. Before socialism is censored by the Federal Communications Commission, maybe we should give it a chance instead of yelling at Obama for raising our taxes. Maybe we should just sit back and pay a few more dollars for a while — and cutting taxes has not been shown to cure anything. Better democracy, better economy, more jobs and a business boost. Sweden might be on to something.

6 | OPINION

MONDAY, MAY 11 | THE TELESCOPE

We must embrace diversity MELISSA LERAY THE TELESCOPE

No room for those that are not the same, what a shame! People tend to group together and avoid those that are not in their group or those that do not share their interests. This hurts society on many levels. This shows the need for diversity and the great importance of students at Palomar, along with everyone else, to make sure that they encourage diversity everyday. Diversity is “fact or quality, of being diverse; difference. A point of respect in which things differ.” Respect for individuals causes people to stop and listen when someone else is talking or sharing. Those moments lead to understanding and acceptance, or at least let people “agree to disagree.” Either outcome is a learning experience. According to the American Psychological Association’s Web site, a psychological study was done in 1950 on 30 heterosexual males and 30 homosexual males, who were tested without reference to sexual orientation. It evaluated that two-thirds of both the heterosexual and homosexual males were among the three highest levels of adjustment. This caused the A.P.A. to state that homosexuality “implies no impairment in judgment, reliability or general social and vocation-

al capabilities.” This study was a learning experience showing how wrong the long-held assumption was that homosexuals were mentally unhealthy and maladjusted. This knowledge was only gained because those administering the study learned about those individual men. Life is the ultimate learning experience, from birth to death, from learning to walk to learning how to live on social security. The quality of that life can be measured by many things: kids, money or knowledge. Knowledge is defined as, “the fact or condition of knowing something with familiarity gained through experience or association.” How is an individual going to become more knowledgeable if they limit their experiences or associations? They don’t, and the individual — and society — lose out. According to the Pew Research Center in the 2007-08 school year enrollment of a city school by typical black or Hispanic students was in a ratio of 20 percent white to 80 percent minority, with the minority students being of the same ethnicity. When a person encounters another, there is a chance for knowledge to be gained and shared, should the individual make the choice to take advantage of the opportunity. A lesbian reading a magazine. A homosexual man working in

the next room. A black woman playing with four children. A young man 200 pounds overweight sitting on a park bench. A transgendered individual leaning against a bicycle. Who are these people? Taking advantage of the opportunity reveals that the black woman was recovering from cancer, and studying how different chemical agents can trigger the disease. The lesbian was leaving the next day for a humanitarian mission around the world. The homosexual man was working on a new artificial intelligence model that would revolutionize robotics. The young man who was overweight was working on a new symphony that would rival Mozart. And the transgender individual was taking a break from writing a new book, which would win a Pulitzer Prize. Had people taken the time to encourage diversity by engaging these individuals, they would have gained knowledge which would help them form and refine their own opinions and their own diversity.They would then be able to share that knowledge with those that are close to them causing a ripple effect in society, and as a member of society it is everyone’s responsibility be an active participant.

GRAPHIC BY MCT CAMPUS

Financial aid for illegal immigrants JOSEPH BONNET | THE TELESCOPE

Is college education a fundamental right to all Americans or just a privilege? MARK NOTARIAN THE TELESCOPE

With a special election coming up May 19 we are told on a daily basis California is running out of money. The state assembly and Senate are cutting programs and funding. In turn the college system is raising tuition, cutting classes and cutting back on admissions. On the surface the idea of adding benefits to non-citizens seems unwise and unfair to legal residents. A recent study showed that undocumented workers and their families are receiving 28 times more in benefits than they are paying in taxes. But we can’t blame the undocumented for the economic problems brought on by their presence. The undocumented are here because employers are enjoying the benefits of cheap labor. The employers see this underground work force not only as an exploitable labor pool but a reason to keep wages down for everyone and thus keep profits high. The hope of a better life attracts an expanding group of economic refugees, but they are unskilled and poorly educated. Unable to financially add

enough to the tax base to cover their combined cost to the state the financial numbers on the undocumented cannot be argued with. For some the solution would be mass deportation. Frankly, I am very uncomfortable with the idea of the government rounding up millions of people in the middle of the night, herding them on to buses and shipping them across the border. The whole idea just seems un-American and really short sighted. I prefer the tried and true method of success via education. The DREAM Act offers financial aid benefits to academically qualified students. Education is the best investment any government can make for future revenue and the numbers are simple. Educated people make more money, people who make more money pay more taxes and when formally poor people pay more taxes the tax base grows and the need for aid decreases. For every dollar in financial aid the government gets $50 back. We should not be withholding aid from any qualified student. We should come together as students and demand the state do the right thing for everyone.

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POLLING PALOMAR

Do you support giving financial aid to illegal immigrants? • They deserve a fair share like everyone else • Criminals like them don’t deserve the money • I don’t care To participate in polls, go to www.the-telescope.com.

PAT CUBEL THE TELESCOPE

Illegal is illegal and a criminal is a criminal. Let’s not confuse a college education with amnesty programs or absolution. Children of illegal immigrants are allowed to legally attend public schools that offer K-12— so what? Education is wonderful for anyone whether they are a citizen or not. Education for citizens should be the first priority in the U.S. The College Board, which is comprised of approximately 5,000 schools and is known for the SAT college admission tests, released a report that cited a need for federal legislation that would open up in-state tuition fees, financial aid and legal status to many illegal immigrants living in the U.S. The DREAM Act, a piece of proposed federal legislation introduced to the Senate in 2001 and reintroduced this March, offers children of illegal immigrants an opportunity to apply to the Homeland Security Department for conditional legal status after graduating from high school, as long as they were under the age of 15 when they arrived in the United States and have resided here for five years. Such legal status would make immigrants eligible for in-state college tuition rates and some forms of federal financial aid. If they attend college for two years or participate in military service for at least two years the immigrants would qualify for permanent legal residency and ultimately citizenship.

Is the DREAM Act really about education or is it another way to grant amnesty for a criminal act? It’s not the children’s fault that their parents immigrated here illegally, but until that student can make things right for themselves with the federal government then they should not receive any other benefits. The parents of these kids realize that they have nothing to gain and nowhere to go by living in the country of their origin. They want something better for themselves and for their children, but the DREAM Act that is on the floor in the United States Congress is a very thinly disguised attempt at amnesty for illegal immigrants. Some people interpret the Constitution’s famous lines, “All men are created equal… with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” to mean that all people residing in the United States should have equal rights. This would lead people to thinking that a college education should be available to all equally. But that doesn’t make college an afforded right. We already have a public education system that is over-burdened. With the larger class sizes and costs associated with educating illegal immigrants, why do we need to do this to colleges, too? California colleges are in tough times because of state budgets cuts and a $40 billion deficit that has resulted in

increased taxes. We have seen positions eliminated after a professor retires, we have had courses cut and fees increased in an effort to save and raise money. This makes it more difficult for everyone of us to reach our goals. Our federal government is trying to get on top of budget gap in the trillions of dollars and is in the middle of recession that is quickly becoming a depression. With the economy in the tank, taxes being raised to fund basic government services, where are they going to find the money to help fund college educations for illegal immigrants? According to the financial aid office at Palomar College there are already programs in place that allow these children the opportunity to receive financial aid and attend college. The only difference that I can see is that the current programs don’t allow these students amnesty for their illegal status in the U.S. The College Board cites that many of these illegal immigrant children are valedictorians of their high school classes, athletes and class leaders and they have a right and need for college educations. Every person should be allowed to attend college, but college is a privilege, not a right. These students need to apply for help through the federal government and become legal citizens of the U.S. When they do, more opportunities will open for them.

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FOCUS | 7

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

STDs are growing epidemic among students percent increase from 1996. “There are approximately 2.8 million new cases of Each year, statistics show Chlamydia in the United that one in four teens will con- States each year, indicating tract a sexually transmitted dis- that more than half of new ease or infection (STD/STI). cases remain undiagnosed and Also, 50 percent of sexually unreported,” estimates an STD active individuals will contact surveillance report from the an STD/STI by age 25, accord- Centers for Disease Control ing to the American Social and Prevention (CDC) Web site www.cdc.gov. Health Association Web site. African American females, STDs do not discriminate against income, education, ori- ages 15 to 19 have the highest entation, gender, ethnicity, dis- rates of both Chlamydia and ability, geographic location or gonorrhea, the CDC said in a January press release. age. “Studies have shown that As a result, STDs continue to be a public health problem to one of the most important individuals and society. There social determinants of sexual are 25 estimated STDs that health is socioeconomic staspread through vaginal, anal tus,” experts wrote. There is no simple solution and oral sex. to this “Despite epidemic, education, s i n c e we still have approxinumbers of mately 75 STDs going percent up,” said Dr. of women Kathleen — DR. KATHLEEN GROVE and 50 Grove, a proPalomar Professor p e r c e n t fessor of of men both human sexuality and sociology at with Chlamydia never have symptoms. Palomar. “As far as symptoms, every The amount of infections is STD is different, especially for increasing, but the challenge of getting people tested is even the male,” said Sue Mayfield, a registered nurse at Palomar. greater. Painful or frequent urinaFrom all STDs, Chlamydia is the highest reported infection tion, redness of genitals, dull in the United States; standing pelvic pain, bleeding between at over 1 million diagnoses periods, rash or white patches reported in 2007, an increase of on moist tissue and/or severe 7.5 percent from 2006 and 125 itching are a few of several STD symptoms for females. Males may experience Instructors $12-19 / hour painful urination, Customer service $10 /hour cloudy or watery discharge from Contact Brett at (760) 744-7946 JAVIER TOVAR THE TELESCOPE

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Despite education, we still have numbers of STDs going up.

Swim Instructors Wanted

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the penis, mild discomfort upon urination and intense itching are among STD symptoms. If you experience any of the symptoms, consult a physician right away. “Left untreated, Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause infertility, affecting a woman’s chance to bear later in life. Such a severe consequence is entirely avoidable, if as a nation we work together to increase the use of proven prevention tools and make them widely available to those who need them,” said Dr. John M. Douglas, Jr., director of CDC’s Division of STD Prevention. In terms of avoiding STDs, Kay Clark wrote: “After abstinence, using condoms correctly is the best way to help avoid getting a STD. If both partners get tested for STD, then have sex only with each other, their risk is much lower. Talking with a partner before having sex is also a big part of avoiding STD.” Every individual that takes care of themselves improves the health of the overall society. The community can change the sex-centric society by taking an active role in community education. “Open discussion between parents and their children and between sex partners, balanced messages from mass media, education and counseling activities of health care professionals and community activism regarding STDs” are necessary actions to reduce the spreading of STDs, according to the report The Hidden Epidemic: Confronting Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

BILL HOGAN | MCT CAMPUS

Chhlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. The symptoms are usually mild or absent, but irreversible damage can occur, such as infertility. According to CDC, STDs cost by the year, but students at the health care system as Palomar can make a differmuch as $15.3 billion annually. ence by sharing the informaIt’s a burden that is increasing tion with their peers.

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THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009

Being trendy doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket CASEY OLAYA THE TELESCOPE

With the economy in a rut, keeping up with fashion trends has been in the back of a lot of people’s minds. A smart shopper just might be able to find a way to uncover spring deals without guilt. There are many stores in San Diego county and online that sell entire outfits for under $50. Palomar Student Uki Yamazaki said she likes to shop at stores like H&M (www.hm.com) and Forever21 (www.forever21.com). Both stores have locations at various malls around San Diego County. Yamazaki’s friend, Kazusa Eto, agreed by adding that items from those stores are “very cute, and cheap.” Forever21.com sells summer dresses for around $20 and tops for around $15. For those students who are accessory-oriented, Palomar student Danielle Honeycutt has a solution. Honeycutt likes to shop at Palomar’s main campus in San Marcos. Vendors’ kiosks can be found right in front of the school cafeteria on certain days. Honeycutt explained that she bought her favorite sunglasses for only $7 from Palomar. “I buy things from the merchants at school — they sell things for really cheap,” Honeycutt said. Student Inderjit Bhatti agreed that the vendors were CASEY OLAYA | THE TELESCOPE the place to go to find good deals. He also suggested making your own clothes in order to Danielle Honeycutt (top left) bought her sunglasses for $7 from a Palomar vendor kiosk. Inderjit Bhatti (right) is sporting hand-made clothes. Palomar students Seiro Iida, Kazusa Eto and Uki Yamazaki (bottom left) are all dressed in bargain clothing. There are numerous opportunities available around North County for smart shopping. save money. “I like to sew my clothes and add on a bunch of patches,” have no money” community. on the site for around $30. on a budget is local thrift Temecula’s The Promenade Bhatti Web sites Other places to shop online stores. Amvets Thrift Store, mall. said. such as are www.ebay.com. From located in Escondido, and the At this store a shopper can Bhatti w w w . a n g r y designer purses to motorcross Salvation Army and Boutique buy knitted tops for as little as suggesty o u n g a n d gear to microminis, eBay has in Poway are both great places $10. There is also a Papaya ed going poor.com offer what a shopper is looking for. to find recycled clothes on the located at the Mission Valley on differvarious punk The site is user generated cheap. mall. ent Web clothing for and a user can sell either new For those who live in North Don’t be afraid to dress to — INDERJIT BHATTI under $50. sites that or used products sometimes for County and the Temecula area impress this spring. By no Palomar Student encomThe ever- half of what an individual who like the Forever 21 style, means does a shopper have to passed popular black would pay in a designer store. there is the clothing store sacrifice style just because of the “do it yourself” and the “I skinny jeans can be purchased Another great place to shop called Papaya located in the recession.

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I like to sew my clothes and add on a bunch of patches.

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Smart shopping stops in North County • Fabulous Finds - upscale thrift shop in Poway • Amvets Thrift - Escondido • Forever 21 - Escondido and Carlsbad malls • Papaya - Temecula and Carlsbad Mall • Carlsbad Premium Outlets - Carlsbad • Bacio Boutique - Escondido • Old Navy - Vista, Escondido and Temecula • Blu Echo - San Marcos • Fashion 5 - San Marcos and Escondido • Plato’s Closet - Escondido • Buffalo Exchange - Hillcrest • Boot World - Escondido and Carlsbad • Gen X Clothing - Oceanside

ENTERTAINMENT | 9

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

CRYSTAL EVANS THE TELESCOPE

Whether or not you are currently a “Star Trek” fan, you are sure to come out of the new movie a Trekkie. The film, which was released May 8, is a remake of a television series. It has computer-generated imaging that is out of this world and believable. Despite the emphasis on the battle scenes, the strong story line never falters. The movie opens in the middle of a frenzied battle scene between citizens of two different worlds, and quickly escalates into a touching scene that will have patrons wiping their eyes before they even see the title of the movie. And the excellent writing doesn’t stop there.“Star Trek” is a journey that will travel through space and time as well, in such a well-crafted manner that even those who haven’t seen an episode of the television show will be able to follow. And those who did watch endless hours of the different “Star Trek” series will not be disappointed. Both the writers, casting directors and actors did

Photos courtesy of Paramount Pictures and Bad Robot

their homework and made sure to stay true to the original. For example, Spock, played by Zachary Quinto of “Heroes” fame, is almost a dead ringer for Leonard Nimoy in the original, just with a few less wrinkles. And his acting skills are not lacking. He is able to pull off the self-control that is expected of a character with a Vulcan ancestry on his father’s side and a human ancestry from his mother. Actor Chris Pine is another well-cast character. Despite his history of performing in secondrate romantic teen comedies such as “Just My Luck,” Pine delivers an amazing performance as the rebellious, withouta-cause kid who quickly realizes he can do a lot more with his life. The costumes and makeup also add a lot to the movie. Other than Spock’s pronounced brow bone, no flaw can be seen in any costume or makeup jobs. So whether it is your first or thousandth time immersed in the “Star Trek” universe, enjoy the movie, live long and prosper.

| ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S HAPPENING Monday, May 11 Who: The Shins w/ guests What: Indie Where: Soma Cost: $28 More info: www.somasd.com

Wednesday, May 13 Who: Lucero w/ Black Joe Louis What: Alt Country Where: Belly Up Tavern Cost: $15 More info:

Wednesday, May 13 Who: Green & Wood w/ The Roller What: Rock/ Psychedelic Where: The Jumping Turtle Cost: $8 More info: (760) 471-7778

Thursday, May 14 Who: Doves What: Indie Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $17.50-22.50 More info: (619) 299-BLUE

Thursday, May 14 Who: Gretchen Wilson What: Country Where: Viejas Concerts in the Park Cost: $35-45 More info: (619) 659-2426

Friday, May 15 Who: Mogwai w/ Dead Meadow What: Rock/ Psychedelic/ Metal Where: Belly Up Tavern Cost: $20 More info: www.bellyup.com

Saturday, May 16 Who: Nine Inch Nails w/ Jane’s Addiction What: Industrial/ Rock Where: Cricket Wireless Amphitheater Cost: $20.50-99.50 More info: (619) 671-3500

Sunday, May 17 Who: Kevin Devine w/ Wild Light What: Indie/ Ambient Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $10.50 More info: (619)299-BLUE

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009

Students strut stuff in fashion show KARA VERMEULEN THE TELESCOPE

Palomar College hosted its own version of “Project Runway” as students from the Fashion Department put on their spring fashion show May 1 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. The theme of the show was MODA, meaning fashion in Italian. The show offered a venue for designers to get exposure to industry professionals and allowed prospective students to see what the fashion program is all about. Upon entering the arts center, attendees browsed a boutique featuring local vendors selling fashion accessories, jewelry and salon services. Still models wearing pieces from the designers lined the lobby giving guests a sneak peak of what was to come. M o d e l Av a r r a Ponto wore a period piece reminiscent of something from t h e 1800s featuring a corset and bustle. When asked if wearing the garment was comfortable she replied, “I can’t

bend, but I can breath.” Students were given the freedom to create a collection from whatever inspired them. Collections ranged from casual sports wear to bathing suits to period costumes. The eye-catching men’s underwear line opened the show and had many ladies in the room swooning over the scantly clad models. Fashion Club president and student designer Dezi CadmanMendoza’s collection was inspired by Egyptian influences, she said. The beauty of Egyptian necklaces c a u g h t C a d m a n Mendoza’s eye and she incorporated the style lines into her collection. She described her collection as having bright colors, geographic shapes and silhouettes with very feminine lines. Natalie O’Brien’s collection was also inspired by ancient Egypt. She credits the theme coming from her irresistible impulse to travel and the possible feeling of having been an Egyptian queen in a past life. C a d m a n Mendonza thinks it is no coincidence that Egyptian influences are show up in so many

ROB BACON | THE TELESCOPE

A design by Melissa Beck debuts on the runway at MODA, the Palomar fashion show held at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido on May 1. places and foresees it as an emerging trend. Vivid colors were and bold prints were seen in many of the collections. Interesting use of lace, ribbon, and imaginative garment structure made each collection stand out. The show was put together over an eight-week period and students organized all components of the show. “Students coordinate everything from lighting to music to entertainment,” Campo-Griggs said. In all, over 40 students were involved.

The department created a program for the show in the vein of a high-end fashion magazine. Articles offered advice for creating a budget-friendly wardrobe, the best colors for one’s skin tone, and instructions for do-it-yourself purse. The high fashion photo spreads featured models cast by the designers. To borrow a line from Project Runway: “In the world of fashion, you’re either in or you’re out.” Palomar College designers are on tract to be the future of the “in” in fashion.

‘Ghosts’ recycles tired formula KELLEY FOYT THE TELESCOPE

There’s not much new that Hollywood can offer when it comes to romantic comedies.The tired and tried formula of boy meets girl, boy falls for girl, unknown disaster puts boy/girl relationship in jeopardy and then boy gets girl anyway has been used time and time again. “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past,” starring Matthew McConaughey and Jennifer Garner, brings a “new” twist to the recurring approach while managing to keep the audience laughing. The premise of the movie is based around the foundation of Connor Meade’s (McConaughey) realization that being a player may not be the optimal lifestyle. The plot plays out as ghosts of Connor’s past relationships haunt him at his younger brother’s wedding (a concept as old as Dickens himself). Connor is set up as a character who lives his life by a “whoever cares the least is in control” motto, and absolutely never stays at the girl’s house the morning after to cuddle, or worse: spoon. (Imagine the horror). At his brother’s wedding rehearsal, a ghost from his romantic past visits him in an Ebenezer Scrooge-like moment. The ghost, who is the girl that he lost his virginity to, takes him on an humorous journey through his past relationships.

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Matthew McConaughey (left) and Jennifer Garner star in “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past.” Connor is quickly able to realize that his childhood best friend Jenny Perotti, played by Garner, is the girl for him (which will hardly come as a big surprise). It’s then up to Connor to untangle his feelings and fix his mistakes in order to get the girl. While not a new idea, “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past” is a witty and entertaining movie. The script plays out Connor as the protagonist, so the movie is told through a guy’s perspective, keeping the typical “gushiness”

of a romantic comedy to a minimal. Girls can drag their boyfriends to the theater confident that their man won’t be squirming in his seat and counting down the minutes to the end of the film. While the main attraction of “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past” is the humor, there is another pleasing aspect of the movie that makes it worthwhile. Surprisingly, the chemistry between McConaughey and Garner is both believable and

likable. Sparks fly every time that the smart, sassy and attention-to-detail Jenny is in the room with the overconfident and egotistical Connor. The two have a romance similar to a tango dance, with strong counterweights and a powerful tenacity on each character’s side. While Garner has a tendency to pick roles with diversity (she’s taken a page from her Alias character Sydney Bristow’s book), McConaughey seems to be lacking in that department. (Haven’t we seen that same laidback charm in “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days?”) McConaughey seems to be having difficulty finding the distinguishing line between the characters that he plays and his reallife roles. “Ghosts of Girlfriends MOVIE REVIEW Past” has ‘Ghosts of some serious flaws, which Girlfriends Past’ are mainly HH reflected in OUT OF FOUR STARS Hollywood’s inability to STARRING: Matthew produce a McConaughey, Jennifer Garner one-of-akind movie, RATED: PG-13 but it offers enough entertainment to be described as “pretty cute.” With summer just around the corner, the movie offers an escape from the heat and a quick form of entertainment that will keep it from becoming a box office flop.

ENTERTAINMENT | 11

Action star lives childhood dream MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

CRYSTAL EVANS THE TELESCOPE

In 2007 Tyrese Gibson starred in the box office hit based off one of his favorite childhood cartoons, “Transformers,” as a member of the U.S. Air Force who attempts to fight off the Decepticons attacking the earth. On June 24 he’ll be back in theaters in “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.” Gibson said that acting in “Transformers” was more than just a job, it was a childhood dream come true. “I was that kid in my drawers with a Lucky Charms bowl of cereal watching the Transformers every time they came on,” Gibson said. “And for me, it’s almost like a childhood dream to be a fan of a cartoon and the toys and then grow up and actually be acting in the same movie. It’s kind of surreal.” Tyrese isn’t the only one that grew up

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being a fan of the Transformers, thus there was a lot of pressure to deliver on this film, especially after the success of the first one. “It wasn’t necessarily fun to deal with the pressure,” Gibson said. “You can’t just say because somebody’s spending a lot of money to do a film or you got a certain director attached that a film is going to do well.” But Director Michael Bay made sure that they all worked hard to make it the best film possible. “Michael Bay is demanding all across the board, it’s definitely not a — TYRESE GIBSON rumor,” Gibson Actor said. “But I’ve been on the set when I’ve dealt with directors that are very relaxed, trying to be everybody’s friend, and you never get anything done… I respect how [Bay] keeps everybody on edge because it makes you perform at the highest level.” Despite setbacks that are bound to hap-

And for me, it’s almost like a childhood dream to be a fan of a cartoon and the toys and then grow up and actually be acting in the same movie.

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Tyrese Gibson will reprise his role as Tech Sergeant Epps in the movie,“Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen.”

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Tech Sergeant Epps (Tyrese Gibson) protects himself against alien robots in Dreamwork’s film “Transformers.” pen, Gibson said the movie was done ahead of schedule, thanks to Bay’s persistence. “We were filming a big huge firebomb explosion scene and a big important piece of the set caught on fire,” Tyrese said. “Michael flipped out and we were all rushing to put the fire out. They had the fire department and everybody rushing, like, hurry up, save it, save it… it’s all about continuity, and so everything has to look the same or the whole shot is ruined.” But Bay didn’t let the accident get in the way of filming. “When we came back to the set the next day after they put the fire out, they had built the thing overnight,” Gibson said. “It was right back to looking the way it did before it caught on fire.” Being a fan of the show growing up, Gibson has a favorite Autobot. “Optimus is my favorite,” Gibson said. “When I had seen him on the first one and he said, ‘I’m Optimus Prime,’ I was like, ‘yo.’ You’re talking about chills going through my body.” However a lot has changed from the car-

toon he watched growing up and the film that he stars in, in particular the advancement of computer graphics technology. “The big action scenes and drama in films back in the day had so many limitations compared to now. Sometimes you can’t tell the difference from explosions in the film that’s live action over what’s in CG. The special effects are going to be mind blowing.” Though the overall effect of computer graphics is amazing, the acting done with elements that will be added digitally can be difficult. “The robots that were on the set were actually a big tall stick that was like 15 to 30 feet high and it had a green tennis ball on the top of it,” Gibson said.“That was the robot.” However, acting with a tall stick and a tennis ball isn’t always a bad thing. “Sometimes it’s better to do a scene with a pole and a tennis ball than it is to do it with some of these actors I’ve had to work with in the past,” Gibson said. “Sometimes you’re doing the scene it’s like, ‘Man, could I get a stick and a ball right now?’”

Roth shows promise on ‘Asleep In The Bread Aisle’ MELISSA LERAY THE TELESCOPE

Asher Roth’s debut rap album, “Asleep in the Bread Aisle” is straightforward and unrefined. It is not for the language sensitive including liberal amounts of sexual references along with a large amount of marijuana references but it is totally fun and refreshing. Even before hearing the CD, the listener knows that the album will be entertaining just by looking at the cover, where Roth is passed out on a grocery store bread aisle shelf. Inside the cover another image shows him surrounded by MUSIC REVIEW students made out to be comical “party animals,” wearing fuzzy ears and smoking out of bongs. Roth tells the listener in his first song that the lyrics are Asher Roth offensive, by saying ‘Asleep In The Bread “like the blonde Bob Aisle’ Saget, Ash can get nasty,” then proHHH OUT OF FOUR STARS ceeds to talk bluntly of his sexual escapades. For the most part, the album would be good to listen to at a drunken party or for a laugh. One song “Blunt Cruisin,” talks about smoking weed while cruising around town and the different events that can happen during the escapade. Many of the songs can be repetitive in their form, though there are a couple songs that show the lyrical promise of

COURTESY PHOTO | MCT CAMPUS

Rapper Asher Roth’s debut album “Asleep in the Bread Aisle” went straight to No. 1 on iTunes. this new artist and his depth. An example is “Sour Patch Kids” that addresses poverty, war, the environment and the willingness of people to do nothing; it is effective in its lyrics and supplemented with a strong bass. Roth will hold his own if this album is an indication of what his style will be, a curious mix of a techno with rhythm and blues. The beats are easy to move to and the lyrics make you smile and say, “Yea that’s so it.” The feel of this album is refreshing for a rap CD. It causes the listener to like it, while not being quite sure what to make of it at first. If Roth maintains the honesty of tracks like “As I EM,” where he talks of the comparison of himself to Eminem and “His Dream,” that talks of his father and the sacrifices made for his son to pursue his dream, this young artist might become a powerhouse in the industry.

12 | ENTERTAINMENT

Summer Blockbusters: What to watch while escaping the heat at the theaters this summer CRYSTAL EVANS THE TELESCOPE

The Proposal “The Proposal” is a movie about a high-power book editor who is faced with losing her job when she finds out her visa has expired and she will be deported back to Canada. In order to stay in America, Margaret decides to marry her assistant, Andrew, whose life she has made miserable for years. After the impromptu proposal, Margaret travels to Alaska with her soon-to-be husband to meet his eccentric family. There Margaret faces one mishap after another, requiring the in-control city girl to loosen up. This romantic comedy, starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds, is sure to be one of the feel-good comedies of the summer. The movie will be in theaters June 19 and is rated PG-13 for sexual content, nudity and language.

from their village and embark on an epic journey through the ancient world. In their travels they encounter Cain and Abel , played by David Cross and Paul Rudd, respectively, and some other historical figures This comedy is sure to have moviegoers laughing in the aisles as Black and Cera make prehistoric jokes. The movie will be in theatres on June 19

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE Sandler plays George, a comedian who is diagnosed with a terminal illness. For the first time in his life, he begins to live in the moment and tries to recapture what he has lost, including the girl who got away. Judd Apatow (“The Forty Year Old Virgin,” ‘Knocked Up”) directs the film that stars Seth Rogan, Leslie Mann and Jonah Hill in their third comedy together. The movie will be released on July 31 and is not yet rated.

Daniel Ra dcliff

(left) and Emma Wa tson

star in “H COURT ESY PH arry Potte OTO r and the Half-Bloo d Prince.” As he trys to figure Transformers 2: out what the symbols mean, the war between the Autobots Revenge of the Fallen and the Decepticons returns to “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” is the long awaited earth again after Skorpinox sequel to the 2007 film steals Megatron’s body from the “Transformers”. Shia LaBeouf U.S. Military and revives the and Megan Fox are back as Sam body using his own spark. This movie promises to be and Mikaela. The film starts a few years packed with action and amazing after the first one left off, with CG technology. The movie will Sam heading off to college and be in theaters June 26 and is not yet rated. making his and Mikaela’s relationship long distance. Shortly Harry Potter and the after he begins classes, Sam Half-Blood Prince begins seeing ancient symbols. Another long-awaited sequel coming out this summer is the sixth installment of the “Harry Potter” series. With Lord Voldemort gaining power, it is up to Harry, as the chosen one, to fight the dark side. Dumbledore takes Harry on journey of discovery to undercover Voldemort’s past and is pushed forward to bring down the plot the Dark Lord began putting into action before Harry was born. The original cast returns to the journey Harry and his friends began in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in 2001.The movie will be in theaters July 15 and is rated PG for scary images, some violence, language and mild sensuality. and is not yet rated.

Year One Jack Black and Michael Cera star in the movie “Year One.” The lazy hunters get banished

COURTESY PHOTO

Brad Pitt stars as Lieutenant Aldo Raine in the new film set during WWII “Inglourious Bastards.”

Funny People In “Funny People,” Adam

G.I.Joe: The Rise of Cobra Paramount Pictures is teaming up with Hasbro to bring another childhood favorite to life on the big screen with the help of a staff of computer graphics artists. “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra”, directed by Stephen Sommers, will follow the story line of the Cobra fantasy that was created through action hero figurines, comic books and an animated series in the early 1980s. The team of military elites are back to save the world from the Cobra Corporation with Duke as their leader. “Rise of the Cobra” will explore Duke, played by Channing Tatum, and Ripcord’s, played by Marlon Wayans, beginnings with the team. The film will be out in theaters on August 7 and has not yet been rated.

Inglourious Bastards Quentin Tarantino is the writer, director and producer of a new movie set during World War Two. The “Inglourious Bastards” are a group of Jewish-American soldiers who are out to seek revenge on the Nazis in Germanoccupied France. Their leader, Lieutenant Aldo Raine, played by Brad Pitt, directs his men to use extreme violence on any Nazis they find and to bring him back the scalps of at least 100 Nazis each. This film will be out in theaters Aug 21 and is not yet rated.

13 | DIVERSIONS

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009

Horoscopes By Linda C. Black

May 4 - May 10

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

A shared experience brings you and your teammates closer together. This is the kind of thing you can joke about, and you probably will. Don't lean too hard on whomever makes the error, and ask forgiveness fast if it's you.

In your perfect world, there's always enough money for luxuries. In the real world, that may not be the case, but you can improvise. You can also build some luxurious items. Get busy.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

You always watch for coupons in the paper. Other businesses, even the government, also offer incentives. It's up to you to find these goodies, to assist in stretching your money. Look around.

Make your home more comfortable, and your work will get easier, too.You need to rest completely when you're off, so you're full of energy when you're on. You take care of others, of course, but you should also take care of you.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) You may be feeling pressured, but you're not alone. You have a person nearby who can help, and would love to do just that. If you're not sure who, ask friends for a referral.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) You know how security is achieved: one bit at a time.You're also excellent at stashing away food and useful items. That's why you always have plenty after the others have run out.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Sagittarius (Nov.22-Dec.21) You should be in a pretty good mood. You see light at the end of the tunnel. There will be an end to the drudgery once you develop new skills. It's not going to be that hard to do, either. It'll be fun.

Capricorn (Dec.22-Jan.19) Finish a project you've been working on and have something to sell at a profit. If you decide to keep it, you can count it as money saved. That's the same as money earned, as if you didn't know.

Aquarius (Jan.20-Feb.18)

A person who owes you a favor can help you connect with the perfect partners.With these folks on your side, your chances of success improve. You haven't won the war yet, but you do have reinforcements.

Your team looks to you for leadership, and you look to them for support. It's a good relationship, but it does need attention. Make sure they know how much you appreciate their efforts.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Are you working out of your home? That could be a way to allocate your resources more efficiently. Come up with a plan and make your presentation. Your odds of acceptance are good.

Don't express all your reservations, although you can take notes. Jot down possible solutions to the problems you identify. Offer those to the people in charge and you'll profit nicely.

| COMET SPORTS

POST-GAME

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009

COMET SPORTS WRAP-UP Spring 2009

ROB BACON| THE TELESCOPE Palomar’s Matt Bruner won third place with a time of 2.01.01 in the men’s 200 butterfly during the Pacific Coast Conference championship at Palomar College on April 18. The team placed third at the conference meet at Palomar.

Softball JAVIER TOVAR THE TELESCOPE

The 2009 season for the Palomar College’s softball team was a return to grace by recovering the 2009 Pacific Coast Conference championship on April 17 after losing it last year. Coach Mark Eldridge said there weren’t any low points this season. “It’s a work in progress to steadily get better and clinch the championship.” Eldridge said he knew from the start that the team could reclaim the title they had kept for 22 years before last year’s defeat. His goals this season were “win the conference, get to the state finals and get every sophomore placed at four-year schools.” Eldridge has accomplished all three. Catcher Andrea Nedden, third baseman Shawna Barrow, shortstop Andi Anti, pitchers Chelsea Blackman and Alex Hutchinson are recipients of scholarships and transferring to four-year universities. This year’s Alex Hutchinson and Mark Eldridge were named Pitcher of the Year and Coach of the Year by the Pacific Coast Conference. The goal for next year is to try and top this year. “To do better than we did this year, continue our standards and try to exceed them. Always trying to get better,” Eldridge said.

Men’s Golf ROBIN WITT THE TELESCOPE

After taking first place in the regular season, the Palomar College men’s golf team won the Orange Empire Conference on April 27 at Los Serranos Golf

Course in Chino Hills. The team scored 720, 10-under par, with a 20-stroke lead over the secondplace team. Palomar College men’s golf coach Jonas Crawford said he had high expectations and was not disappointed. “We had a goal to win the Orange Empire Conference and we did,” Crawford said. Another high point this season was when the Comets beat Cuyamaca at Cottonwood on March 30. Palomar broke a school record with a team score of 15under par. According to Crawford it is unusual to see that kind of scoring at the community college level where the teams generally draw from a smaller pool of experienced players and the programs are not as well funded as they are in four-year colleges. The next competition for the Comets is the Southern California Community College Championship at Marshillia Ranch Golf Course near Vandenberg Air Force Base. The top four teams advance to the State Community College Championship on May 11 at Sierra View Country Club in Roseville, Calif. Although Crawford cautioned that he cannot predict the future, he said the team has the confidence to succeed. “Our final goal will be to win the state championship,” Crawford said. “But of course we must not get ahead of ourselves. My athletes understand that.”

finished the year 10-4 (8-2 conference) and the women finished 143 (11-1 conference). Both teams were the Pacific Coast Championships and coach Ronnie Mancao was named coach of the year. The women won the Ojai Valley Tournament Championship. They were led by freshman Arina Polovnikova, who was the Pacific Coast singles champion and player of the year. She was also the doubles champion with Shoko Hachiya. They made the playoffs as the number four seed and won their first round game against Bakersfield 5-2 on April 14. “This is the first playoff game we have had since I have been here,” Mancao said during the playoff versus Bakersfield. The team went on to lose to No. 1-seed College of the Desert 5-3 on April 21. Polovnikova would end up finishing second at the Southern California tournament and along with Hachiya would also finish second in doubles. D.J Jaehnig would lead the

men’s team and win player of the year honors in the Pacific Coast Conference. Along with Louis Holladay, he would also be the doubles champion. The team didn’t qualify for the playoffs, but would make the round of 16 at the Ojai Valley Invitational Tournament and the Southern California Regional Tournament.

Women’s Basketball PAT CUBEL THE TELESCOPE

Proud and wonderful are only two of the words that Palomar women’s basketball coach Sheri Jennum used to describe her teams 2008-2009 season Repeating as the Pacific Coast Conference Champions and going undefeated, 14-0 in conference play for the second straight year. Even though the season ended early for the lady Comets with an

opening round loss in the state playoffs, to San Bernardino, Jennum said she was happy with the squad’s performance this year. The score “26-4 is pretty darn good and going back-to-back undefeated champions in the PCC is remarkable,” said Jennum. “Considering we lost two starters, I am extremely pleased with how well we stuck together and played hard.” With six sophomores on the 2008-09 team, five of Coach Jennum’s players will be moving on to four year schools. “Katie Girten and Kristin Marquardt just signed with Chico State,” said Jennum. “They were the only returners from last year’s team.” Girten and Marquardt went 5110 during their careers at Palomar College and 28-0 in conference. “I will miss them terribly,” added Jennum “They are amazing talents.” Three players were named to the All Pacific Coast Conference team, Kiara Stinson, Kristin Marquardt and Katie Girten. Girten was also was named to

Men’s and Women’s Tennis JARRED POWELL THE TELESCOPE

This was a banner year for the tennis teams at Palomar.The men

ROB BACON| THE TELESCOPE Arina Polovnikova hits a forehand smash. She ended her freshman season as the Pacific Coast singles champion and player of the year.

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE the All State team and named the PCC player of the year. JaDawn Holler and Lauren Matheney received All Conference honorable mention honors. Feeling very optimistic for next season, Jennum has seven players returning to the team next year and a recruiting commitment from Escondido’s outstanding guard Amanda Rawlings. “I am excited,” Jennum said. “Lots of pressure trying to threepeat, but I know this group can do it.”

Men’s Basketball JARRED POWELL THE TELESCOPE

The Comets had higher expectations when the season started. Those expectations turned into disappointment. The basketball team ended the year 15-14 and 9-7 in conference, ranking third. Theo Overstreet and Richard LaFleur were first team all conference. Kevin Deeb was an honorable mention all conference. To be fair, Palomar had a young team. Overstreet and LaFleur were the only returning starters. Eric Johnson was the only returning player who played significant minutes the year before. To top things off, three players who saw significant action left the team for various reasons in the middle of the season. There were some bright spots on the team last season. They defeated two ranked teams this

season, then state-ranked No. 8 Irvine Valley and then No. 7 Cuesta. The Comets were competitive in every game this season and look to improve next season. Kevin Deeb and Kristoff Thande will be the returning players that saw significant action this season and will be the leaders next year.

Track & Field JEREMY LEAL THE TELESCOPE

The Palomar women’s track and field team finished second in conference this season, and missed first place by 30 points. Southwestern took first. Although strong showings throughout the season led them to second place, the season is not yet over. The regional finals will take place this Saturday at Mt. San Antonio. Overall this season was not a disappointment for Palomar. They have fewer girls than the average track team and still managed to finish in second place. “Our goal was to beat Southwestern, but we only lost by 30 points,” Paz said. “That is good since we had fewer girls than teams like San Diego and Southwestern.” Standouts this season for Palomar have been Kiara Sherman, Tenicia Taylor and Adriana Paz. Sherman takes part in the discus event, Taylor runs in the 100-meter hurdle and Paz runs the 400-meter hurdle. Sherman, Taylor and Paz all qualified for the regionals and

hope to qualify for state finals. “We practice everyday at Cal State San Marcos and have meets on weekends,” Paz said. “I have school in the morning, then practice, then work.” Coach Jennifer Williams agreed and said there were great performances at every meet.

COMET SPORTS | 15

Swimming CASEY OLAYA THE TELESCOPE

With multiple school records beat, and countless personal records shattered, the Palomar Swimming and Diving program have had one phenomenal season. Both the men and women displayed their athleticism with four collective school records this season. Beyond that, nearly every swimmer on the team shaved off massive amounts of time off of their records. At the state championships this year, freshman Ryan Krause took home a gold medal in the men's 100 butterfly at 49:19 seconds. Krause broke a school record at a Palomar home meet earlier this season. Freshman Rachel Lutz also took home a gold at state, with 58:51 on the clock for the women's 100 IM. Lutz was part of the recordbreaking women's relay during the Pacific Coast Conference Swimming & Diving finals earlier in the season. Overall, the swim team has had a great season ending with women are in ninth place days with 102 points at state finals and the men in 11th place with 86 points.

ROBERT BACON| THE TELESCOPE Palomar’s Ulrich Von Son (middle) used his head at a in a home game win against Riverside College Sept. 19.

ROB BACON| THE TELESCOPE Theo Overstreet was the unquestioned leader of the Comets this year. He led the team in scoring and ranked in the top five in rebounding, steals, assist and blocks on the team.

16 | COMET SPORTS

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

Comets fall to Grossmont 6-3 heading into playoffs JEREMY LEAL THE TELESCOPE

Palomar’s No. 1-ranked baseball team lost to No. 8-ranked Grossmont 6-3 in the last home game at Myers Field this year. The game started off ugly for the Comets. Grossmont got out to a 1-0 lead after two errors and a hit surrendered by the starter Sam Jew. Palomar did not

respond until the bottom of the fourth inning. Tyler Saladino, Alfonso Casillas and Brenden Webb each got hits that allowed Palomar to tie the game up on an error that scored Saladino with two outs. Grossmont put in Zach Anderson to get the last out of the inning. Although Palomar tied the game, Grossmont was quick to

put more runs on the board. A double and single put runners in scoring position for Grossmont, with no one out. One of the runners scored off of a sacrifice fly and another off of a fielder’s choice to make the game 3-1 Grossmont. Saladino made a fantastic backhand play at shortstop to end the inning. But Saladino was taken out in the bottom of the sixth inning

ROB BACON| THE TELESCOPE Sam Jew opened for Palomar in a game with Grossmont at Myers Field on April 28. Jew pitched six innings and struck out two in a loss.

after being hit on his throwing ball and we were only down by hand while trying to lay down a one, so I figured with the pitching bunt. that we have, and the hitters that “He’s going to get an X-ray we had coming up, I thought that right now and the index finger on we definitely had a chance to get his throwing hand looks really one run in,” Webb said. bad,” Head Coach Buck Taylor Palomar’s hopes were dashed said about Saladino in the next inning. after the game. Grossmont hit backCOMETS 3 Later in that GRIFFINS to-back home runs to 6 inning, the Comets give the Griffins a 6UP NEXT had runners on base 3 lead. but weren’t able to Palomar was not Southern California score. able to respond in Regional Playoffs In the seventh the bottom of the inning, Palomar put ninth and ultimatelyMay 8-10 in Travis Strong to gave Grossmont a 6-3 replace Jew. Another win. AT STAKE error in the inning Coach Taylor said cost Palomar a run, he was disappointed The Comets are the No.1 making the score 4-1. after the game. seed and are attempting Palomar stayed “We just didn’t to win a championship quiet in the bottom show up. We were of the inning. not ready mentally Another pitching and I think it came change came for Palomar in the back to bite us,” Coach Taylor top of the eighth inning. Shawn said. Sanford came in to pitch for The Comets ended the season Strong and pitched the first two as the top ranked baseball team outs of the inning, while Aaron in the state and on the west coast. Edwards pitched the last out. Palomar opened up the In the bottom of the eighth Southern California regionals inning, Palomar seemed to come May 8 against Citrus as the No. 1 alive. The dugout was louder and seed in the playoffs. more enthusiastic, and it resulted This means the Comets will in two runs for the Comets. Matt host every playoff game for as Hubbard led the inning off with a long as they are in the playoffs. single. After a fielder’s choice Should the Comets advance and a sacrifice fly, Hubbard was and win the super regionals, they on third with two outs. Brenden will travel to Fresno for the final Webb stepped to the plate. Webb four May 23-25. smashed a two run homerun that The Comets team members put Palomar within one run of said they are up for the challenge Grossmont. and hope to bring a champi“I was excited because I hit the onship home.

COMET SPORTS IN BRIEF

Saladino, baseball team honored with conference recognition

Three days after the Palomar baseball team clinched the No. 1 seed in the Southern California Baseball Regional tournament, 10 Comets received first-team all Pacific Coast Conference honors May 6. Tyler Saladino, one of the 10 players named, was also voted by the coaches as the conference’s player of the year along with defensive player of the year. Saladino had a PCC-leading .616 batting average with 45 hits, 16 RBIs and 34 runs during conference play. A .952 fielding percentage backed up his defensive player of the year honors. Bobby Shore (starting pitcher), Sam Jew (started pitcher), Casey Edelbrock (relief pitcher), Alfonso Casillas (first base),

Terrence Buchanan (second base), Matt Hubbard (third base), Matt Carvutto (outfielder) and Brenden Webb (outfielder) joined Saladino on the conference’s first team. Eight other Comet players received honorable mention for the conference, which included Leland Sisco (designated hitter), Mitch Ferguson (second base), Victor Martinez (outfielder), B.K. Santy (catcher), Aaron Edwards (pitcher), Travis Strong (pitcher), Sean Sanford (pitcher) and Matt Strom (pitcher).

Seven women athletes commit to playing for 4-year colleges

Palomar women’s basketball co-captains Katie Girten and Kristin Marquardt signed letters of intent to Chico State April 29. Girten and Marquardt were members of

last season’s and this season’s teams that went undefeated through the Pacific Coast Conference along with winning conference titles. Girten was named the PCC Player of the Year and a first-team member for the conference following a season where she was third in the conference in scoring with 222 points and second in assists with 54 during conference games. Marquardt Was also named to the first-team all conference team. The Palomar softball team also had five athletes commit to playing for four-year schools April 28. PCC softball pitcher of the year Alex Hutchinson accepted a scholarship to Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi. Hutchinson had a 13-7 record with a 0.95 earned run average and 82 strikeouts this season. Fellow pitcher Chelsea Blackman also will be moving on as she committed to Jamestown College of North Dakota. Abeline Christian will have the benefit

of two Palomar players on their roster next season as shortstop Andi Anti and third basebam Shawna Barrow accepted scholarships. Catcher Andrea Nedden rounds out the list of softball players moving on, heading to Cal State University Monterey Bay.

Taylor, Eldridge named coaches of the year

Comets head coaches Buck Taylor and Mark Eldridge were named men and women’s coaches of the year respectively for all sports. Both coaches led each of their respectives teams to conference championships. Taylor directed the baseball team to the No. 1 ranking for the regular season and in the Southern California regional playoffs. Eldridge emerged from retirement to lead the softball team to its 24 championship in the last 25 years and a playoff berth.