Vol. 72, No. 1
Monday, September. 10, 2018
Palomar College Governing Board approves new contract for Superintendent Joi Lin Blake BETHANY NASH LINUS SMITH STAFF EDITORS
The Palomar College Governing Board recently approved an amended contract for Superintendent Joi Lin Blake that raised her base salary by $62,027 from her original contract. The amendment was approved at the July 10 Governing Board meeting during closed session, it was passed by a 4-to-1 vote. Nina Deerfield was the only board member to vote no. Student Trustee Amber Bancroft, who gave an advisory vote, also voted no to the proposed contract. Following the approval of the contract amendments, members of the Palomar community expressed discontent with the generosity of Dr. Blake’s extended contract. The community has also made known concerns regarding the lack of transparency from the Governing Board, due to their decision to make these approvals without having discussion in an open session.
Contract Details The amendments voted on by the Governing Board included raising the base salary of the Superintendent to $292,027, which is a $62,027 increase from her beginning salary of $230,000.
Dr. Joi Lin Blake gives a presentation during the Fallbrook Education Center groundbreaking ceremony. Oct. 13, 2017. Alexis Metz-Szedlacsek / The Telescope
Professors (left to right, Anastasia Zavodny, Lillian Payn, Steve Perry, Jackie Martin) from Faculty Senate board address concerns from Palomar Community during Faculty Senate meeting on Aug. 20. Justin Enriquez / The Telescope
However, Dr. Blake’s transportation allowance of $18,000 will be rolled into the $62,027 increase. In addition, Dr. Blake will now receive $15,000 annuity upon discontinuation of her services at Palomar, her contract will be extended by two years and she, along with any dependents, will receive lifetime health and dental benefits. Prior to the Governing Board’s approval of the amended contract, Palo-
mar professor of life sciences, Lesley BlankenshipWilliams sent an email addressed to the Board which asserted “extending Dr. Blake’s contract so early in her tenure offers no benefit to the College, only a benefit to Dr. Blake.” She later continued, “there is no benefit to the College in giving Dr. Blake a $62,000 raise compared to 2016.” In an email addressed to Faculty from Faculty Senate President Travis Ritt he
explained, “Like many of you my first instinct was to be angry … Once the anger passed, I knew that my next course of action needed to be to talk to people involved and gather information to understand the context of why the Governing Board made its decision.” Ritt concluded that Dr. Blake, under her new base salary is being “compensated at a commensurate rate with comparable perks to other Community College
Presidents/Chancellors at similar sized institutions.” Co-President Teresa Laughlin of the Palomar Faculty Federation, said over email in reference to the amended contract that although she understands part of the increase is the transportation allowance being rolled over in the raise, her concern is how it affects the cost of living adjustment and salary raises in the future. Because now the trans-
portation allowance is included in Dr. Blake’s base salary, future cost of living adjustments will be inflated by an amount equal to the $18,000 rollover. Governing Board President Paul McNamara stated during the August plenary meeting, “the Superintendent/President accomplished the goals and objectives established for her by the board, and exceeded many of the expectations over the last two years.” Governing Board Trustee and Secretary Mark Evilsizer, noted in an email a few of the accomplishments made by Dr. Blake he found impressive.
CONTRACT CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
HOW GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS VOTED ON THE AMENDED CONTRACT PRESIDENT
YES
PAUL MCNAMARA
The Telescope
VICE PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
YES
JOHN HALCON
Telescopenews
TRUSTEE
TRUSTEE
STUDENT TRUSTEE
YES
NO
YES
NO (ADVISORY VOTE)
MARK EVILSIZER
NINA DEERFIELD
NANCY A. HENSCH
AMBER BANCROFT
The_Telescope
2 • NEWS
September 10, 2018
t BRIEFLY t FREE SPEECH BALLS ON CAMPUS
FREE FOOD AVAILABILITY SAN MARCOS --- Students struggling with food insecurity, who may be uncomfortable going into a food bank, now have another option located on campus. Students struggling with a lack of access to food can go to any one of 12 fridges located around campus that Palomar’s Student Services has established. Each is stocked with water and produce provided by the North County Food Bank. The fridges are located at the following locations on the San Marcos Campus: - Counseling lobby, SSC counseling lobby - EOPS, ST first floor EOPS room via AA-141 -SEAL center, SU-19 - Pride center, ST-72 - Student Affairs, SU-201
- Student Activities, SU202 Basic Needs Hub, SU-22 There are additional fridges on the Escondido Campus in the main lobby, and on the Rancho Bernardo Center at Student Affairs. These fridges were purchased through funds received by a grant from Once Upon a Farm and the North County Food Bank. If you or anyone you know is struggling with food insecurity additional information on how to get assistance can be found on the Office of Student Affairs website, https://www2.palomar.edu/pages/studentaffairs/www.palomar.edu, or at their office on campus at SU-201. — Bethany Nash
PALOMAR GETS GRANT SAN MARCOS --Palomar has received a $100,000 grant from the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. The grant was approved and went into effect June 19, 2018. Palomar plans to use the grant money to help fund things like textbooks for incoming freshman through the Palomar Promise, a new police vehicle for the Fallbrook Education Center, a utility cart for the Nutrition Center opening soon on San Marcos Campus, and a cargo van for Palomar’s Camp Pendleton site. Dr. Joi Lin Blake, Superintendent of Palomar College stated “we deeply appreciate the ongoing support of our county government in serving the students of our district.” — Krista Moore
WOODLAND PARK CONCERT
Darius Toussi, President of Young Americans for Liberty, stands by one of the free speech balls his chapter has brought to Palomar College’s SU-Quad, Aug 22. Savhanna Vargas/ The Telescope
SAN MARCOS --- On Aug. 20 Young Americans for Liberty (YAL), a proliberty organization that is spread out on college campus throughout the United States, came to Palomar with giant blow up beach balls. The representors stood in the SU-Quad with the giant beach balls and sharpie markers, calling for students to come over and
exercise their right to free speech and use the sharpies to write something. YAL works to cultivate youth activists by training and mobilizing them to win on the principle of the rights they have as Americans. Every college apart of the YAL is considered a chapter in the every growing organization. They currently consist of 754
chapters across America. YAL has internships, fellowships, and jobs available for like-minded individuals. If working in the organization is not right for you, but you still want to be apart you can find out more and contribute to YAL on their website www. yaliberty.com. — Bethany Nash
UPCOMING EVENTS THIS DAY IN HISTORY 1950
New York Yankees player Joe DiMaggio became the first Major Leauge player to hit three home runs in one game
- Effective Note Taking Strategies. 11 a.m. - noon, Sept. 10. TLC-112 - Career Center Hiring Event for Robert Haft. 9 - 11 a.m. SU-17 - Getting Your Zone, 3 - 4 p.m. Sept. 12 TLC-112 - Know Your Rights, Use Your Voice. 4 - 5 p.m. Sept. 12. TLC-112 -Do, Does, and Did for ESL. 10:45 - 11:45 a.m. Sept. 12. Escondido TLC-500
Fridge located in SU-202. Linus Smith / The Telescope
BLACK MINDS MATTER SAN MARCOS --- Black Minds Matter will be hosting a series of professional development workshops from 5 - 7 p.m. beginning Oct. 8 and running nine weeks until Dec. 10 in room AA-140. Students, faculty and staff are welcome to attend. Black Minds Matter is an organization working to develop the next generation of African-American youth leaders. This organization develops their young and upcoming leaders in art, education, and political activism. Black Minds Matter develops inspires the youth leaders through speaker presentations, cultural events, and the Black Minds Matter Concert Series which emphasis Gospel, Jazz, and Blues music. The Black Minds Matter motto states, “Black Minds
Not Only Change Lives, But Save Lives.” It is supported by many musical artists including Erick Walls, Karen Briggs, Keb Mo and Canton Jones to name a few. Scholarships are offered to youth African-American leaders presenting them with the opportunity to attend college. Their website lists ways to get involved and help their mission such as sponsoring an event, volunteering support, a letter of endorsement or donating funds to the organization. To find out more about Black Minds Matter and their mission to help underprivileged youth attend college or donate to the cause check out their website www.blackmindsmatter.com. — Bethany Nash
SAN MARCOS --- On September 15th, Woodland Park will be hosting the next installment of their “Summer Concerts In The Gardens” series at 6 p.m. The concert will feature James Kruk, an Elvis Presley tribute artist. Admission is $6 for presale and $8 at the door, and children under the age of 12 are free. Presale tickets are available for purchase at the San Marcos Community Center, the San Marcos Senior Center, or online at www. san-marcos.net/register. — Victoria Price
COASTAL CLEANUP SAN MARCOS --More than one million sea birds die each year due to ocean pollution, according to the organization “Ocean Crusaders.” The City of San Marcos is hosting a coastal cleanup day from 9 a.m. to noon on Sept. 15 at the vacant parcel along San Marcos Boulevard, between Las Posas Road and South Pacific Street. Team up with thousands of San Diego residents to beautify 100 coastal and inland sites across San Diego County. Online registration for this event is open at cleanupday.org. — Samantha Cox
NEWS • 3
the-telescope.com
Table created by Palomar Professor Lesley Blankenship-Williams comparing superintendent salaries from local colleges in relation to years of service and total full time equivalency students. Data for enrollment provided by California Community College Chancellors Office.
CONTRACT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Such things included the opening of the Rancho Bernardo and Fallbrook Educations Centers, establishing the Palomar Promise program, expanding Palomar’s food pantry and creating new information systems and processes for enrollment management. “She is both a visionary and entrepreneurial leader, and has a great team that helps her accomplish her goals. Dr. Blake has done many impressive things,” Evilsizer said. Dr. Blake said in an email Together in the last two years, we have introduced a number of exciting new initiatives including the opening of two new centers to extend our access throughout our District. We have the largest Promise
Program in North County that includes over 1,500 students, more than double the size of last year’s program. To date, our Fall enrollments are up approximately two percent.
Transparency Concerns regarding transparency have also been a subject of discussion among Palomar community members. “My main problem with transparency is with the Governing Board,” Laughlin said in an email. “For example, they voted on the President’s contract without ANY discussion in open session. This is troubling.” However, as the nego-
tiations for the amended contract was an employee matter, the Governing Board has a legal obligation to not discuss the reasons pertaining to the amended contract. Their only obligation, as per the Brown Act is to announce the resulting decision of the discussion made in closed session. “While we might not like the fact that the Governing Board did not openly discuss the terms of the President’s contract, they were with in their legal right, as well as responsibility, not to,” Ritt said in an email address to Faculty.
Moving Forward Aside from the issues of the amended contract and concerns of transparency,
Palomar faculty is looking to improve community moral.
There never has been a movement toward a vote of no confidence from the PFF - Teresa Laughlin
“One of the follow ups that we are going to be doing, is we will be sending out a survey to all faculty part time and full time with questions about campus culture and the atmosphere,” Ritt said during
Paul McNamara, President of the Palomar College Governing Board gives presentation during Ceremonial Groundbreaking for the Fallbrook Education Center on Oct. 13 2017. Alexis Metz-Szedlacsek / The Telescope
the Faculty Senate meeting on Aug. 20. “To get at asking [faculty’s] ideas of where we want to move.” The Faculty Federation is also hoping to foster positive attitudes in regards to campus culture. Laughlin discounted rumours going around that suggested the Faculty Federation was considering making a vote of no confidence. “There never has been a movement toward a vote of no confidence from the PFF before or since the the Plenary,” Laughlin said in an email. “The PFF is concentrating its efforts on positive things for our members such as an ombuds program for the centers, professional development funding, and a scholarship.” Governing Board Vice
President John Halcón expressed during the Faculty Senate meeting that the Board and faculty won’t always agree on everything, but the discussion is what was important. “There were some very eye opening comments made this afternoon that have struck me in a particular way,” Halcón said. “We are in a place now where I think we can move forward.” Dr. Blake noted at the end of her email to The Telescope “The college has a dedicated administration that has the college’s best interest, particularly the students’, at the core of all decision-making,” BNASH@THE-TELESCOPE.COM LSMITH@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
BLOG SPOT
Impossible burger provides meat lovers a vegan option SAMANTHA COX STAFF EDITOR
Vegans are taking over the world one step at a time. What once began as a diet consisting of only pure fruits and vegetables, is now a diet that consists of hundreds of meat and dairy substitutes that not only taste as good as the real thing, but do not kill animals and damage the environment. The main goal of the impossible burger, as stated by the founder, Patrick Brown, is to create “uncompromisingly delicious and nutritious meat and dairy products that do Vegan Burger. Photo courtesy of SharonaGott / Flickr Commons
not require vast expanses of grazing and feed crop lands.” The impossible burger has skyrocketed in demand since its release in July of 2016. What once was available only at whole foods, is now available at dozens of restaurant chains, including burger joints. Fatburger released the impossible burger early this year. Fatburger CEO Andrew Wiederhorn said to QSR Magazine, “fatburger pioneered the development of the ‘better burger’ industry. Now we’re pioneering menu development with the Impossible Burger, and are excited
to offer it to our customers.” The impossible burger is one of the few meat substitutes that benefits the consumers health. Rather than being made of soybean, the impossible burger contains three key ingredients: wheat protein, coconut oil, and potato protein. Wheat and potato protein have been proven to be more beneficial than beef protein, since beef is high in cholesterol. But Fatburger isn’t the only burger joint that serves it. Pure burger, a San Diego based chain, serves the impossible burger alongside another veggie patty. Contrary
to belief that vegan options are far more expensive than real meat, the impossible burger is just about the same price as real beef. The standard burger at pure burger costs $10, while the impossible burger costs $13. Both are loaded with lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, and ketchup. It is quite odd to see vegan options being brought into burger joints - and even vegans are not sure how to feel about this. However, we can all agree that it is good to have an abundance of options that cater to everyone’s needs. SCOX@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
The Telescope publishes on its website blogs that cover a variety of sections the are not included in the print edition, to see more articles like this visit our website at www.the-telescope.com and search under the “blogs” tab.
4 • OPINION
September 10, 2018
We are watching our Palomar community corrode into tribalism EDITORIAL
the telescope Focused On Palomar Monday, Sept. 10, 2018 Vol. 72, No. 1 Palomar College, San Marcos, Calif.
LINUS SMITH
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
BETHANY NASH
MANAGING EDITOR NEWS EDITOR
JUSTIN ENRIQUEZ MONICA NAVARRETE
OPINION EDITORS
SKYLAR MILLER VICTORIA PRICE
ARTS & CULTURE EDITORS KRISTA MOORE
SPORTS EDITOR
GEHRIG ROSEN SAMANTHA COX
BLOG EDITORS
SAVHANNA VARGAS TAYLOR HARDEY
PHOTO EDITORS ERIN HIRO
ADVISOR
MAURICE THOMAS
OFFICE MANAGER
STAFF WRITERS
ANA ACOSTA, SUMMER AGUIRRE, ANGILI BEHARRY, BRIAN BELTRAN, CHEYENNE CYR, RYAN DAVIS,ALEX GARCIA, PUCHIE GRUPEE, PAT HARTLEY, GERALD LIGERALDE, NATHAN NAVIDA, JOSEPH RENTERIA, ASHLEY ROMERO, JEREMIAH TATOLA, ERIC CANTU, RHEA MARSALIN, LUCIO ALBERGO DI PACE
PHOTOGRAPHER AUBREE WIEDMAIER,
ADDRESS THE TELESCOPE PALOMAR COLLEGE 1140 W. MISSION ROAD, SAN MARCOS, CA 92069 PHONE / 760-891-7865 NEWSROOM / H-103 WEBSITE/ WWW.THE-TELESCOPE. COM FACEBOOK/ “THE TELESCOPE” TWITTER/ @TELESCOPENEWS EMAIL/ EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE. COM AD EMAIL/ ADS@THE-TELESCOPE. COM
THE TELESCOPE WELCOMES ALL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. LETTERS MUST BE TYPED, UNDER 300 WORDS AND INCLUDE THE AUTHOR’S FIRST AND LAST NAMES, MAJOR AND PHONE NUMBER. PHONE NUMBERS WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. LETTERS SHOULD BE EMAILED TO EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE.COM. 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. THE TELESCOPE IS PUBLISHED 5 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, THE EDITORIAL BOARD, PALOMAR FACULTY AND STAFF MEMBERS OR THE GOVERNING BOARD TRUSTEES.
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Paranoia and distrust has begun running rampant at Palomar in recent months, and it is corroding the foundation of our college community. Palomar’s “Better Together” theme is a notion that’s been endorsed by various groups on campus as a way to describe the college’s atmosphere and culture as one of unity and togetherness. Now, however, that theme increasingly seems more like a facade. A pound and a half of makeup to cover divisions between groups on campus that have succumbed to an “us versus them” mentality. In this case, it is faculty
that has expressed deep concern in the way administration and Governing Board members have been managing the college. Over the summer break, several events transpired that brought about this concern, one such event being the Governing Board’s approval of a newly amended contract for Superintendent Joi Lin Blake. There were several in the community who felt the new contract, which among other things raised Dr. Blake’s salary to $292,027 (which is $32,027 more than what she began earning in 2016) was an unreasonably generous renegotiation of the con-
tract. Several believed it to be more unreasonable still, the lack of an explanation by the Governing Board as to why they amended the contract in the manner they did. Professor Lesley Blankenship-Williams wrote to the Governing Board before the contract approval, noting “the timing and presentation of this controversial amendment is highly suspicious. Why is this amendment being presented in July? The faculty are off contract and a lot of people are on vacation.” Co President of the Palomar Faculty Federation Teresa Laughlin said in an email regarding
transparency “my main problem with transparency is with the Governing Board. For example, they voted on the President’s contract without ANY discussion in open session.” We understand that it is well within the legal right, and even responsibility of the Governing Board to have made their decision in closed session. We know also they’re under no legal obligation to provide any more context to their decision than they have already. However, as questions continue to loom over the decision, we believe there is a social obligation to provide further insight and dialogue as to why they felt
this new contract was appropriate, so that we can return to the “Better Together” model. Increased communication can only propel a better college community environment. At the Aug. 20 Faculty Senate meeting, Governing Board members John Halcon and Mark Evilsizer were both in attendance. Both were seemingly receptive to faculty concerns and both expressed a willingness to maintain consistent dialogue. That is the type of administrative initiative that Palomar needs in order to foster a sense of collectiveness. EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
Frat hazing is a dangerous college tradition ASHLEY ROMERO STAFF WRITER
The dangerous underground of college fraternities unleashes the fatal consequences of an untamed male hierarchy. Whether you or someone you know has been a part of Greek life, it is impossible to run from the ominous call of the fraternities’ dark doors. Fraternities have been associated with hazing for several decades, making its shocking appearance on various media platforms. However, the consequences these brothers encounter are fatal. This Panhellenic associations are advertised as being a “brotherhood” that engages with the community and creates an inviting home for those that choose to join. Instead, hostile environments are emerging sending these students to the hospital with severe injuries and others to their death. In 2016, San Diego State University welcomed Sigma Nu fraternity back to campus following a four-year expulsion including misuse of alcohol and unauthorized hazing activities. On Sept. 2, 2017, a student required medical attention after being highly intoxicated coming from the Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity at San Diego State University. The fraternity was put on a minimum expulsion after six years of violations having to do with drugs, violence, and alcohol.
The fraternity’s past presidents and pledges have been linked to deaths caused by narcotic overdoses, vehicular man slaughter and psychological isolation. A former Panhellenic member from Penn State University recently pleaded guilty to nine misdemeanor charges that were found in connection to a hazing related death of a pledge. The 19-year-old victim was forced to drink around 18 drinks in a time-span of 90 minutes. The young pledge was refused medical attention for 12 hours before being released. Videos show the men attempting to revive him, but there was no hope. In order to reduce, if not eliminate, the cruel acts of hazing on college campuses, fraternity boards and schools have been working closely to take action in removing any fraternity that is guilty for the harming of any of their students. Most colleges have the same process in which they go about handling hazing. It is critical that colleges continue to take firm actions in removing fraternities when necessary in order to eradicate the mistreatment of young college students. There have been incidents reported where the administration of a school has protected fraternities due to the reputation and contributions it brings to the colleges. If the fraternity has a good history
with their philanthropy, there is a chance the violations could be overlooked and no punishment will occur. The fraternity will immediately be put on interim suspension and revoked from many privileges until the investigation is complete. The school and fraternity council then decide if the chapter will be removed from the university. Many of these young pledges overlook the horrors of joining when reeled in with unlimited alcohol, parties and of course the girls. The comforting idea of having a group of “brothers” who share the same desires, ignites this want to be apart of their association. However, the terrifying truth follows when they wake up on an ambulance. Many videos, emails, and text messages have surfaced leading us to see a 50 percent increase in hazing over the last decade. Administrations have zero tolerance policies against hazing however, they can be persuaded to lighten these punishments through financial compensation. The problem is that colleges and universities romanticize the party atmosphere and “brotherhood” of Greek life but do not realize there is a heavy price to pay, and it is not the dues you owe your chapter every month. AROMERO@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
(Top) Fraternity Photo courtesy of Kyle Sillivan / Flickr Commons (Bottom) St. Luis Ambulence. Photo coutresy of Paul Sablemen / Flickr Commons
OPINION • 5
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There is no competing with Marvel’s storytelling VICTORIA PRICE STAFF EDITOR
For years, hardcore fans have argued over one seemingly simple topic: which franchise is better, Marvel or DC? The answer is simple: it’s Marvel. Marvel started in the late 1930s. The first Marvel superhero to become universally known was Captain America, who was first seen in Captain America Comics #1, published in March 1941, in the middle of World War II. Captain America remained as the most popular comic book character during the wartime period, and became a hero in pop culture. Sorry Superman, your time as a war hero will never come, even if you were here first. Marvel began their cinematic mastery of bring comic book characters to life with the first film of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Iron Man”. That was then followed by The “Incredible Hulk” (2008), “Iron Man 2” (2010), “Thor” (2011), and “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011). In 2012,
Marvel merged the four properties to create the A”vengers” film series. While DC did release films earlier than Marvel, they didn’t really fully enter the cinematic sphere until the release of “Batman Begins” in 2005. Every installment created in the MCU has been a worldwide hit, where the only recent successes DC has seen was with “Wonder Woman” and the recent “Batman” films. And that doesn’t include Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, arguably one of the most bland, horrible superhero movies I’ve ever seen. It really does deserve that 27 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. DC movies just tend to become forgettable, and it seems as though they aren’t really sure what kind of style they want, or essentially how to present themselves, making their releases a bit more out of tune with one another, while Marvel tends to stay more coherent and the cinematic style tends to stay in the same realm. Marvel also has a way with creating characters
in a way that DC doesn’t have. Marvel explores the depth of those characters way more than DC. In the DC comics and films, the characters seem to only be defined by their superpowers. Marvel characters inspire ordinary people to do extraordinary things, while DC characters just show off their powers without giving us anything to relate to. Wonder Woman isn’t really Diana of Themyscira, she’s just Wonder Woman. Not only that, but she’s essentially a carbon copy of Captain America (she didn’t make her first appearance in the DC universe until October of 1941 in All Star Comics #8, six months after Captain America Comics #1 hit the shelves). This is the biggest reason that Marvel is better than DC. Marvel characters are more relatable, and we get to see and experience their personal lives. Marvel doesn’t center their characters or their focus on just their powers or their alter ego, but them as regular people, and not as just superheroes. Yes, we do see the story of Batman’s ori-
“Captain America: Winter Soldier” Photo coutresy of BagoGames / Flickr Commons
gins portrayed in Batman Begins, but that’s really all we ever see of Bruce Wayne and any kind of backstory, making him a less relatable and personable character. Marvel also lets their heroes be the focus of the story. With the exception of Batman, the majority of any promotion or merchandising for DC characters are for villains, namely the Joker and Harley Quinn. As a comic franchise based on superheroes, shouldn’t you
focus on your heroes, and not on your villians? While both franchises have made interesting casting choices, Marvel still remains superior. Marvel casts actors to represent those characters as they were intended to, perfectly. Actors like Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, and Tom Holland bring those characters to life, and those roles have brought them into the spotlight as major A-list actors.
Whoever decided to cast Ben Affleck as Batman really made a bold choice, to say the least. The same goes for Jared Leto as the Joker in Suicide Squad (2016). Marvel really does climb miles above DC, and it seems pointless to continue this debate for so long since Marvel truly is far more superior, not only in comics, but in movies and merchandising as well. VPRICE@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
Marvel owns the screen, but DC owns the comics BRIAN BELTRAN STAFF WRITER
While the current climate in the world of cinema is oversaturated by comic book films and star studded casts, casual and dedicated moviegoers alike can agree that the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) reigns supreme. But who cares? While their main competitor, DC Comics, lingers in the shadows of Marvel’s immense success on the silver screen, many dedicated fans continue to support DC’s print and television entertainment over the box office juggernauts. Iron Man kicked off the MCU in 2008 to the tune of $585.2 million in box office success. Since then, with 20 installments to date, the franchise has amassed almost $7 billion in ticket sales alone. However, not long ago did we look at DC Comics as the unrivaled king of superhero entertainment. The global phenomenon that was Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy is still regarded as some of the greatest films, not
only in the genre of action heroes, but in cinema history as well. Since then, the World of DC, or so the studio calls it, has failed to match the cinematic success that Marvel boasts with every blockbuster hit. Despite the obvious shortcomings of DC’s movie making revenue and popularity, the company is far from worried about their success and influence. Popular television shows like The Flash, Arrow, and Young Justice are all licensed and distributed by DC. Marvel lacks severely in this area. Comic book fans that tune into their favorite superhero tv shows are watching these DC titles, not the forgettable ones that Marvel has to offer such as Agents of SHIELD (which was briefly cancelled). While DC continues to rally in the field of cinema, they comfortably sit upon the top of the tv market. DC Comics also dominates the purest form of this genre of entertainment-- comic books. Fans of superhero print media flock overwhelmingly to characters like Superman,
Batman, and the Teen Titans. Most of this lopsided consumer support comes from Marvel’s social and political commentary in their comics. Readers have protested the rebranding of some heroes that Marvel has used in their efforts to portray a more modern society where racial and gender equality are normalities. DC, however, remains neutral on most issues, and instead focuses on the truest version of their characters as possible. This has resulted in the aforementioned upper hand that DC Comics holds within the colorful panels of comic books. With superheroes being as popular as ever, the endless debates of which company is superior are always discussed. Marvel’s performance in theaters is shadowed by DC’s brilliance in television and print. As the two compete for dominance of the genre, us as consumers can only look forward to the very best each company has to offer. VPRICE@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
(Top) “Man of Steel” Photo courtesy of SITS GIRLS / Flickr Commons. (Bottom) “Wonder Woman” / Flickr commons
6 • ARTS & CULTURE
(Top) Michael Mufson addresses his cast of “O Beautiful” during the first rehearsal on Aug. 27 at Howard Brubeck Theatre. (Bottom) Actor Austin Williams looks over his script for the first time. Bethany Nash/ The Telescope.
September 10, 2018
“O Beautiful” shows society through the eyes of women, hardships BETHANY NASH STAFF EDITOR
2018 has been named the year of women, and Palomar Theatre Arts is on board. Every year Palomar’s theatre department highlights a specific theme throughout their production season, usually relating to something relevant in society. With recent influences of women’s rights, the 2018-2019 season will be focused on works by women. “The idea that this semester and next semester all our plays are done with one thing in mind is to reflect what is going on around us,” Ingrid Trovão, Palomar Alumni and part of the production team explained. “A great opportunity right now is how we see gender and we look at individuals around us…to create a space where we can empower women.” On Aug. 27 the cast of the first production of the season, “O Beautiful” gathered together for their first table reading. The play will be directed by Faculty Advisor
Michael Mufson, alongside Colette Culbertson who will be making her directing debut with Mufson. “O Beautiful” is a play written by Theresa Rebeck, and is centered around a female who contemplates having an abortion, and then decides to go through with it. Rebeck had felt this was a rare, but relevant outcome portrayed in the entertainment industry. After being turned down by various entertainment platforms, Rebeck received a grant from the University of Delaware, which enabled her to write a play highlighting historical and contemporary themes. The play “O Beautiful” was created highlighting various difficult social issues such as date rape, s uicide, gun rights, as well as incorporating aspects of American history from a women’s perspective. Mufson addressed the cast stating, “this play has some really tough, raw, emotional situations…We need
to create an atmosphere where those actors feel safe and brave.” “O Beautiful” played a part in inspiring Culbertson to take up directing. She feels it is a way to approach her peers that one cannot do when acting alongside them. As a pro-women activist and Rebeck being one of her favorite playwrights, Culbertson encourages audiences to come see “O Beautiful.” “I think it is a story that everyone needs to hear especially if you are interested in hearing about the women’s perspective, kind of the outsider’s perspective in general in our society,” Culbertson said. “It will make you laugh, it will make you cry, and it is going to be a lot of fun.” Cast member, Omar Fox, who will be playing the role of Jesus Christ and considers himself a feminist, explained being part of a play and theatre season geared towards hearing the woman’s voice is empowering. “I think it is very important that as men, we are there
to support, but not to hinder, not to take the attention away, but to give to it ... to give to stimulating the idea of women empowerment,” Fox said. Rebeck worked to create a play built upon perspective, compassion, raw emotion, and striking up an honest conversation. The character Benjamin Franklin states at the end of the play, “what we really need right now is compassion, real debate, and working together for solutions.” Performances will begin Oct. 5 and run through Oct. 14 at the Howard Brubeck Theatre. The Friday and Saturday shows will be at 7 p.m. Sunday will be at 2 p.m. Thursday will be at 4 p.m. and will be followed by Coffee Talk in order to discuss the ideas and concepts portrayed in “O Beautiful.” For more information regarding “O Beautiful” and the upcoming season consult palomarperforms.com. BNASH@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
That’s What She Said The Boehm Gallery is hosting its “That’s What She Said” art exhibit until Sept. 26. The exhibit contains the work of four artists: Raheleh Filsoofi, Michelle Montjoy, Helen Redman and Sien Collective. The exhibit centers around the theme of empowering women. The Boehm Gallery is open to the public on Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., and on Wednesday and Thursday from 12:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Michelle Montjoy’s hand-embroidered handkerchiefs hang in the Boehm Gallery at the opening of the exhibit “That’s What She Said” Aug 30. Savhanna Vargas/ The Telescope
ARTS & CULTURE • 7
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A Crazy Summer of Movies GERALD LIGERALDE STAFF WRITER
The Summer of sequels may be over, there are many summer movies that you may have missed so it is time to recap and reminisce about summers hottest hits and biggest bombs. With the Russo brothers’ “Avengers: Infinity War” the bar was set high for movies during the summer to follow. This marked the beginning of the “summer of superheroes” as many quality rated films such as, “Incredibles 2,” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp.” Even DC’s animated movie “Teen Titans Go! To the Movies,” continued to carry the superhero momentum that Avengers: Infinity War started back in April. Among all these superhero films secret agents and spies also dominated much of the summer season with films like “The Spy Who Dumped Me” featuring the comedic duo of Mila Kunis and Kate McKinnon, “Ocean’s 8” with its impressive female cast ranging from Sandra Bullock to Rihanna. “Mission: Impossible Fallout” also managed to sneak its way into positive audience reception. Direc-
tor Christopher McQuarrie may have created the best film in the M.I. franchise as it was one of the best received summer movie with audience and critics praising its edge of the seat, heart pounding, mind bending action. Summer was not a great year for prehistoric animals however, as reception for Juan Antonio Bayona’s “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” and “The Meg” were both lukewarm among critics and the general audience. Dog movies this summer also had a hard time with films like “Dog Days” only strong suit being its canine cast and A.X.L. boasting a robotic dog flexing its CGI bark but no bite. Films such as “Skyscraper” having a poorly “constructed” narrative, The “Darkest Minds” being a weak adaption of its novel, and “Slender Man” going from game to garbage are just a few more movies that fell short this summer season. Among the summer superheroes and secret agents there were also a few sleeper hits that did well with the audience and critics alike. “Crazy Rich Asians” directed by Jon Chu and its all Asian cast was a huge hit with its delightful spin on
the romantic comedy genre presenting a unique taste on Asian culture yet preserving the comedic flare and fun that is to be expected of a love story. “Christopher Robin” directed by Marc Forster and its loving cast of childhood friends such as Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, Eeyore, and of course Christopher Robin played by Ewan McGregor reminded audience how much fun it was to be a kid. The movie with its earnest and somber tone reminds parents just how hard it is to be a working adult by connecting Pooh and Christopher back together in the real world just like before in the hundred acre woods. One film in particular stood head and shoulders above the rest, Disney Pixar’s “Incredibles 2.” When it comes to Pixar films, quality is to be expected, especially when audiences waited eagerly for 14 years to see their favorite superhero family return to the big screen. “Incredibles 2” distinguishes itself from other, more traditional superhero movies by having a heavy emphasis on family and how important it is to character development. Family is what drives this movie, it’s the foundation of why this film is so effective.
Image courtesy of Center for Asian American Media, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
Despite them being animated, characters have so much realism and depth. “Incredibles 2” takes place right where the first film left off 14 years ago with the Underminer wreaking havoc on the city. “Supers” are still deemed illegal in the eyes of the public and it is up to Mrs. Incredible to set the narrative as she sets out to change the public view on “Supers.” While Mr. Incredible is reluctantly forced to take up the task of caring for the kids’ school and boy troubles back home. Things take a turn for the
worse as a mysterious villain known as the Screenslaver attempts to keep “Supers” illegal and it is up to the Incredibles to save the day once more. “Incredibles 2” is accompanied by one of the best composers in Pixar history, Michael Giacchino, who composed the soundtrack for other Pixar films such as “Ratatouille” and “Up.” Its jazzy soundtrack really emphasizes the design and aesthetics of the era, setting a perfect tone with faced paced action and and a sense of urgency that com-
bines superhero with secret agent to create a whole new sound fit for a movie as incredible as this. Director Brad Bird delivers not just quality but goes above and beyond what he started back in 2004. “Incredibles 2” delivers edge of the seat action sequences along with heart felt comedic moments blended seamlessly into a film that both children and adults would enjoy at any age. GLIGERALDE@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
Say goodbye to punk rock summer camp VICTORIA PRICE STAFF EDITOR
For the last 24 years, Vans Warped Tour has travelled across the country every summer, bringing local bands to the spotlight and reviving punk and rock icons for every generation to enjoy. This year, Vans Warped Tour graced the country for the final time. Vans Warped Tour started in 1995 as the brainchild of Kevin Lyman. During his college years at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, he spent time booking bands to perform at various events on campus, and continued to work as a production manager. However, Lyman had a vision to create something bigger. Lyman, also an avid fan of skateboarding, wanted to fuse music and skateboarding into a festival that featured musical performances as well as skate competitions. Thus, Warped Tour was born. After the first run in 1995 that featured performances by Sublime and No Doubt, Vans decided to sponsor the tour, the name officially becoming Vans Warped Tour. Most popular festivals, like
Coachella and Lollapalooza, take place over a span of multiple days, and cost upwards of $400. Vans Warped Tour was different. The festival only lasted one day, and cost around $40. Vans Warped Tour has also aided in bringing local bands to the forefront, giving them the chance to reach a larger audience. Prior to the festival, every year, Warped Tour would host a local battle of the bands in all of the major cities where the festival was hitting. The winner would then go on to perform at their city’s date. Well known bands like “A Day to Remember” performed hometown dates after winning the annual Battle of the Bands. In 2013, Vans Warped Tour first started the “reverse daycare.” This was created by Lyman after he received feedback from attendees, saying that there were kids who were too young to attend by themselves, but many parents didn’t want to pay the attendance fee. For the next few years, Lyman offered free tickets for parents bringing their kids, and they set up a lounge in the middle of the festival that offered air conditioning and food, giving
parents a place to relax while their child is out at the festival, earning the title of “reverse daycare.” Vans Warped Tour has also become involved with many charities and organizations. Over the years, many foundations like “To Write Love On Her Arms” and Music Saves Lives were allowed to set up tents at the festival to advocate their cause. In 2006, Warped Tour teamed up with Feed Our Children Now, and they remained partners until the end of the festival this year. Festival attendees were able to bring three cans of food and skip the line into the festival, and in 2013, Vans Warped Tour collected 330,000 pounds of food. On Nov. 15, 2017, Lyman announced that the 2018 Vans Warped Tour would be the final cross country run of the tour. It was a devastating loss to the punk, rock, and alternative communities. Vans Warped Tour was truly something special and unique in the festival world, and every fan that attended will remember seeing their favorite bands at punk rock summer camp every year. VPRICE@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
(Top) Born of Osiris at the Vans Warped Tour in Shakopee, Minn, 2012. Photo courtesy of Derrick Austinson Photog / Wikipedia Commons. (Bottom) Simple Plan getting the crowd excited at the beginning of their set in Denver, during the 2018 Van’s Warped Tour. Photo courtesy of jenniferlinneaphotography / Flickr Commons
8 • SPORTS
September 10, 2018
New coach hopes for continued success RYAN DAVIS STAFF WRITER
Ben Adams, the new head baseball coach for the Palomar Comets, Aug.30. Savhanna Vargas / The Telescope
Water polo teams young, optimistic KRISTA MOORE STAFF EDITOR
Poolball, wapo or water polo, whatever you call it, it’s back in full swing along with the rest of the semester. The men and women of the Comet’s water polo team are ready to get back in the pool and compete for another chance at a Pacific Coast Athletic Conference (PCAC) title. The women are looking to build on their success in the pool after finishing second in the PCAC last fall. First year head coach Mandy Simon will be looking to veteran players Kelly Rowan and Emma Thomas to help guide first year players. With only 11 girls on the squad this season Coach Simon is working with a limited roster. “Ideally, I’d want 14 in order to run a full scrimmage, but we don’t have enough for that.” Simon said, “We’ll work with what we got.” With goals to work on communication, defensive guard Rowan is hoping they can build a stronger team to take them further into the season that will hopefully end in a PCAC title. On the other side of the pool the men are equally as
eager to take their season a step further after winning the PCAC title last fall. The men’s team is freshman heavy this season with only a handful of returning players. Early on they are working on finding the balance of the team. “The freshman are experiencing college water polo for the first time,” Head Coach Kody Moffatt said. With almost a whole new list of players, the Comets are working to find their identity as one unit. “Winning conference again.,” returning player Tommy Preston said when asked about goals for the season. The seasoned player is comfortable with the team’s talent, joking that his biggest challenge for the season is going to be, “showing up to morning practice.” The biggest challenge for the men this year is going to be improving upon what they did last season after losing to Long Beach Community College in the second round of regionals. With long seasons ahead of both the men and women of Palomar water polo, the team are ready to take on new challenges with the common goal of returning to the PCAC finals this fall. KMOORE@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
Comet’s baseball new head coach is looking to build upon the successes of his predecessor. Coach Ben Adams, who was appointed as the Comets’ new head baseball coach has been a staff assistant at Palomar for 14 years. He hopes to continue to build upon the successes of the previous head coach, Buck Taylor, who over the summer accepted a position as the new pitching coach for Kansas State University. Both Taylor and Adams were brought to Palomar as assistants to former head coach Bob Vetter, who was entering his final season as head of the program, and who later became a Hall of Fame inductee for the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association. This will be Adams’ first time operating as the head of a collegiate baseball program in his career but Ath-
letic Director Scott Cathcart believes him to be more than up for the job. Citing the longtime Palomar assistant’s experience in all facets of coaching at the collegiate level, Cathcart said he looks forward to “the continued success of Comet Baseball under Coach Adams’ direction.” It doesn’t seem as though Coach Adams plans on shaking things up. “As far as how the system works and what we’ve done or haven’t done I don’t see that changing all that much, I think it’s been pretty successful,” Adams said. “If it isn’t broke don’t fix it.” Consistency seems to be the key for Adams as he has been coaching at Palomar long enough to see what works and what doesn’t. “I think there will be some nuances I’m sure, or different emphasized points I find are important to me as we go along but as far as the character of the program, that won’t change.” Probably the most significant change Coach Ad-
ams would like to make, is a simplification of the team’s current system. “I would rather do some things very very well than do a lot of things average.” In recent years Palomar has made multiple post season runs brought about by strong recruiting and player development. Coach Adams believes this year to be no different. “I think the incoming group is good, it’s talented. We lose a lot (of players) every year so it’s more about reloading than rebuilding. “Adams said. “It’s just a matter of putting all the pieces in the right place.” With the team losing about 21 players from their 2018 roster, Adams has his work cut out for him. There is certainly a program wide emphasis on getting student athletes into four-years which is a clear reflection of Palomar baseball’s long history of successful recruiting. “Just how the background of the program has been as far as transferring students out
is more so the backbone of the recruiting than the wins and losses.”He doesn’t seem the least bit worried as he handled all recruiting efforts in the previous years. The Palomar baseball team is regularly a top three finisher in the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC). Just last year the team was able to secure a spot in the playoffs on the strength of a 28 - 17 overall record and a 17 - 7 conference record, good for a first place finish in the PCC. This year, Coach Adams expects to be right back in the post season as he explained how the expectation every year is to win games and advance as far as possible. Palomar’s baseball program has tried to hold itself to a standard of excellence that each team should live up to. Ben Adams is no stranger to these expectations and has a strong belief in the program’s current system. RDAVIS@THE-TELESCOPE.COM
COMET SOCCER Men’s and women’s soccer preview can be found on our website at www.the-telescope.com
MEN’S RECORD
Wins: 1 Losses: 1 Ties: 1 WOMEN’S RECORD
Wins: 0 Losses: 3 Ties: 0
(Man) Tony Girgis #20. Photo by Linus Smith / The Telescope. (Woman) Samantha Kaye-Toral #2. Photo by Krista Moore / The Telescope