The Telescope 62.10 by The Telescope

PALOMAR COLLEGE, SAN MARCOS, CALIF.

MONDAY NOV. 24, 2008

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR

VOL. 62, NO. 10

the-telescope.com

Staff bonus stalled by disputes

Students campaign against Styrofoam

MAGGIE AVANTS THE TELESCOPE

Several students and teachers have signed a petition asking that Palomar College Food Services consider using biodegradable plates in place of the Styrofoam ones it currently uses. Donna Cosentino, a Palomar photography instructor, started the petition this year when she began to do research on polystyrene, the substance found in Styrofoam. What she found was that because it is not biodegradable, it ends up in storm drains and in the ocean and it does not break down in landfills. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry lists polystyrene as a possible human carcinogen as well as a contributor to hearing loss in animals. It can also affect the nervous system of humans if breathed in high enough levels (more than 1,000 times higher than found in the environment), but animals TURN TO STYROFOAM PAGE 3

Black-tie gala raises more than $150k for Palomar SHAWNNA CLEARY THE TELESCOPE

The 17th annual black-tie gala, presented by the Palomar College Presidents Association, raised more than $150,000 on Nov. 15 at the Rancho Bernardo Inn. “It’s an amazing thing to be a part of,”Vice President Kerry Ross said. “We have already raised over $150,000 before even kicking off the event.” Kerry contributes the event’s success to all that were involved. In everything from the planning to the contributions received. The increase in contributions is over $50,000 from previous years. Contributions were not the only thing that has increased, attendance was up to 500 guests, gaining 180 from the 2005 Gala that had only 320 attendees. JESSICA ROBERTS | THE TELESCOPE Escondido Mayor Lori Holt Pfeiler, The actor Ben Stein attended the Palomar College Economist Ben Stein, and Governing board Presidents Association Black-tie Gala.

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

Education trumps health care

PAGE 4

James Bond is missing in new movie PAGE 9

member Nancy Chadwick attended the gala. “My ties with Palomar are strong,” Chadwick said. “I believe in this institution and am proud of its success.” This year’s gala presented the Comet award to three outstanding members of the Palomar College community. “This is our first year presenting the awards,” executive director of The Foundation Ricard Talmo said. “It’s a way of honoring those that have done outstanding work for the Palomar college community.” The award statute was designed by Palomar art student Rosilyn Schaeffer. She designed the comet to include the letters “P” and “C” in coincidence with a globe, to symbolize the relation between a Palomar education and unlimited opportunity. The award was presented in three categories: honored alumnus, community leadership in Philanthropy and Palomar College campus community.

TURN TO GALA PAGE 6

Palomar College and the Council of Classified Employees are disputing how a .72 percent bonus should be used, causing a legal impasse between the two. According to the CCE, arbitration could be the next step. The CCE would like the money to be spread between all classified staff, while the district would like to spend a portion of the money to fund an ongoing classification study. “What we want to do,” College President Robert Deegan said, “is complete a meaningful and valid classification study that will help the classified staff as a whole.” The goal of the classification study, which began in late 2007, was to reclassify several non-faculty positions at the college, such as administrative assistants, counseling specialists and other out-ofthe-classroom jobs. The reclassification would bring their salaries closer on a comparative level with similar positions at other colleges. In order to perform the study, a third party company was hired. Beginning in the fall of 2007, the Segal Company worked with a steering committee consisting of four classified staff employees, a district representative and an independent contractor. According to Neill Kovrig, president of CCE, the four staff members felt they had no choice but to resign from the committee on Sept. 29 after several failed attempts to have their voices heard. “We do not feel that we can participate nor endorse the process moving forward,” Kovrig wrote in a Sept. 29 memo. His complaints were that the committee had not followed the guidelines of being a steering committee by definition, but had instead become an advisory committee between the district and the Segal Company. He wrote that they had become aware of correspondence regarding the study between the district and the company that did not include the committee. “We are unable to defend the TURN TO DISPUTE PAGE 6

SPORTS

FOCUS Eat healthy during the holidays PAGE 10

Women’s basketball beats IVC PAGE 12

2 | CAMPUS BEAT

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008

CAMPUS CALENDAR

10 News holds memorial toy drive

Channel 10 News is honoring late anchorman “Captain”Mike Ambrose, by continuing the tradition of his holiday toy drive. The 2008 Captain Mike Memorial Toy Drive will have two drop-off days. On Dec. 5, donations can be brought to the 10 News studios at 4600 Air Way. The event will feature music and prizes. 10 News will also be highlighting groups that make the largest donations. On Dec. 17, there will be a festival to benefit the toy drive. Donations of new, unwrapped toys with a value of $5 or more can be brought to the Jingle Bell Kroc Christmas Festival at the Ray and Joan Kroc Center, 6845 University Ave. Admission is free to those who bring donations. There will be free ice skating, an ice show, games and cookie decorating. 10 News is also accepting donations Monday through Friday until Dec. 16 at the 10 News studios between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. All toys will benefit the Salvation Army. For more information contact 10 News Promotions Coordinator Autumn Doerman at (619) 237-6206 or e-mail her at autumn_doerman@10news.com.

Monday, Nov. 24 FOOD DRIVE This is the second-to-last day to donate nonperishable items such as canned fruits and vegetables to the 22nd annual Extended Opportunity Programs and Services Thanksgiving Day food drive. Donations can be brought to TCA-1. For more information contact Anel Gonzales at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2239 or e-mail at agonzalez@palomar.edu.

Tuesday, Nov. 25 FOOD DRIVE This is the last day to donate perishable items such as turkeys, rolls and vegetables for the Extended Opportunity Programs and Services Thanksgiving Day food drive. Donations can be brought to TCA-1.

FREE FILM SERIES In this French film from 2003, a Muslim shopkeeper, played by Omar Shariff, takes in a young Jewish boy after his mother dies and his father commits suicide. The screening will be from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. in Room P-32. Children will not be permitted at the screening. For more information contact Robert Sheppard at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2444 or e-mail him at rsheppard@palomar.edu.

Sergeant/professor dies of heart attack Adjunct faculty member and 27-year veteran of the Escondido Police Department Sgt. Geoff Galindo, died on Nov. 8 at the age of 53. Galindo’s death was unexpected; he had suffered a heart attack in October but had been expected to return to work within the next week or so. In Galindo’s 18-year history at Palomar, he taught Administration of Justice, health and has worked for workforce and community development. Galindo also taught at the Palomar and Miramar police academies. He was the primary field training officer for the Escondido Police Department for more than 20 years. In addition to his duties for the police department and Palomar, he also taught part-time at Mission Hills High School. There was a memorial service for Galindo on Nov. 15 at Emmanuel Faith Community Church in Escondido. Galindo is survived by his parents Pete and Betty, wife Joan, sons Adon and Dave, daughter Ashlie, brothers Patrick and Peter, and sister Leanne.

New television class in spring Palomar College Television is introducing a new Biology 101 series in the spring 2009 semester. “Biology, the Fabric of Life” will consist of 39 half-hour videos that will be broadcast on Cox and Time-Warner channel 16. The series will be brought to life in on community TV while also being available online. Life science instructor Dan Sourbeer helped create this program from the original that was made nearly 10 years ago. The bulk of this project would not have been possible without interns who were brought on by the school television station.

CAMPUS WEATHER

JEANETTE JOHNSON | THE TELESCOPE

The Gift of Life

THANKSGIVING DAY

Students from the Palomar College nursing program learn the procedures of drawing blood with a needle. As the tourniquet is removed from the arm, the blood is free to flow through the tube.

There will be no classes held in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. The campus will be closed through Sunday.

OPEN REGISTRATION These interns help tape, edit and produce as part of their hands-on training taking the project all the way to its final product. The cost to produce this technological series that includes video aides and graphics rounds out to about $20,000. Planning is done a year in advance and takes approximately six months to complete. Each week, the team of interns and three staff members would compile two or three of the halfhour episodes. Students are able to go back online to watch these videos as many times as necessary to fully understand each topic, something that is not possible in a lectured environment. In addition to being available on the television program and online, podcasting will be a feature also open for students to use. Palomar College TV is slated to start production of another series, “The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem,” in January 2009 and finish in May 2009.

Chorus performs holiday songs

The Palomar Women’s Chorus will be performing its annual winter concert with the theme “A Warm Winter’s Night” at 8 p.m. Dec. 4 in the Performance Lab, Room D-10. The chorus will sing traditional holiday songs from all around the world. A Warm Winter’s Night is a concert that tries to reflect holiday traditions from all cultures. The chorus will sing African folk songs for the time of year, Spanish Christmas

songs and other Christmas songs, as well as traditional Hanukkah songs. The chorus will honor the centennial of famed choral composer Leroy Anderson. The chorus, under the direction of Karen Bryan, has been doing this particular concert for years, but only recently made the name of the concert uniform to “A Warm Winter’s Night.” Ticket price will be $5.

Textbook buybacks may get simpler The Associated Student Government discussed making textbook buybacks easier, making “green rooms” and the $332 million state budget cut at their meeting Wednesday. The current buyback is in the bookstore, causing crowding and confusion. The student government is looking to move the tables behind the bookstore creating an area just for buyback. The proposal will be made at the next facilities meeting. The student government discussed reclaiming rooms in the old SU building for conversion into “green rooms” with energysaving features. Sen. Armando Telles, was elected the chair of the committee for this project. ASG members also raised concerns about the state’s proposed $332 million cut to California schools. The student government is looking to set up a table on campus where students can send letters to local

Tuesday, Nov. 25

Wednesday, Nov. 26

Thursday, Nov. 27

Friday, Nov. 28

72˚/48˚

70˚/48˚

64˚/44˚

68˚/45˚

68˚/44˚

MOSTLY SUNNY

PARTLY CLOUDY

RAINING

Monday, Nov. 24

Thursday, Nov. 27

Open registration for the Spring 2009 semester begins.

Monday, Dec. 1 FREE HIV TESTING North County Health Services and Palomar College Health Services will be providing free HIV testing between noon and 4 p.m. in the Health Services building. To schedule an appointment call Health Services at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2380.

Tuesday, Dec. 2 FREE FILM SERIES Based on the novel by Reidar Jonsson,“My Life As a Dog” details the life of a young boy who deals with the stress in his life, including his mother’s death, by pretending to be a dog. Eventually he is sent off to live with his uncle for the summer. This experience helps him to begin to cope with his life and be happy. The screening will be from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. in Room P-32.

Wednesday, Dec. 3 CONCERT HOUR Experimental Jazz group, Minsarah, was formed in 2000 when the group’s three members, Florian Weber, Jeff Denson and Ziv Ravitz, met in college. The trio will be performing their interesting brand of music at Palomar at 12:30 p.m. in the Performance Lab.

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.

NEWS | 3

MONDAY, NOV 24, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE

Social networking sites do double duty these days EVE HIGHTOWER MCT CAMPUS

The old adage “It’s not what you know, but who you know” is unapologetically obvious on such social networking Web sites as Facebook and LinkedIn, where users are working connections to find job opportunities. With job security on shaky ground, tech-savvy job seekers are using social networking sites to take advantage of their connections and their friends’ connections. Although MySpace and Facebook have had widespread success, newer, more professional sites such as LinkedIn are increasingly popular. Professional sites help job seekers find openings through friends and friends of friends. But that’s just one benefit, said

Krista Canfield of Mountain View, Calif.-based LinkedIn. “You can stay in touch with people who move around and switch careers. In this economy, people are moving around and looking for new opportunities,” she said. But if a job is really what you seek, there’s a right way to find it on social networking sites — be open and honest, Canfield said. “The first thing you should do is alert everyone you’ve been laid off and are looking for a job. Then forward your profile to people you think may be able to help you, like old bosses. That way they know what you’ve been up to,” she added. Stanford University Sociology Professor Mark Granovetter agrees. The more people who know you’re looking for a job, the

STYROFOAM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

may ultimately be more susceptible than humans to its dangers. The California Coastal Commission has long supported the removal of polystyrene products from restaurants near open waters because of the effect it can have on marine life, according to its Web site. Cosentino said she thought that a good place to start awareness of its harmful effects would be at Palomar, which is why she started the petition. Food Services Director Diane Lach, however, said she was not aware of the petition up until this point. “The only Styrofoam that we use are the plates for pizza and the specials.” Although Lach said she considers herself to be a Palomar employee, she ultimately works for Aramark, a company that is paid by Palomar to provide its food services to the school. In an effort to increase sustainability in the products it uses, Aramark employees conducted a survey last year at Palomar and asked students and staff if they would pay more for food served on biodegradable products. Lach said the responses they got indicated that most of their consumers would not want to pay more. However, she said Food Services has made several changes this year, including serving all grill items in paper boats instead of on Styrofoam

better your chances. Networking sites are the newest platform for an old practice, said Granovetter. Between 50 percent and 70 percent of jobs are discovered through networking, according to Granovetter’s research. “These sites help you keep track of people you might otherwise lose contact with, especially in today’s world. We move around more than we used to,” Granovetter said. Still, University of California at Davis career advisers urge students to network the old-fashioned way — face to face. But even that is changing. Last month, Davis students used a speed-dating format to meet several potential employers in one night. Students had a limited time

plates. Cosentino said she feels there are better alternatives to using Styrofoam, such as corn- or cane sugar-based paper products. Lach said she and her company have researched such products, and are not able to use them because they are more expensive and she does not want to pass this cost along to their customers. “We are trying to provide a service at minimal cost, but at the same time the health of our customers is of utmost importance,” Lach said. She said the consumer has choices to make on their use of Styrofoam. Her suggestion is if they are concerned with its health risks, they can ask for a napkin instead of a plate when they eat their pizza. Armando Telles, a senator for Associated Student Government and the chairman of Mission 2B Clean and Green @ Palomar, was not aware of the petition, but he is grateful that they are trying to be proactive. “I would like to see more biodegradable products used at Palomar,” Telles said. “It is an interesting idea and I would like to see what happens.” Cosentino said they currently have 75 signatures on the petition, which is hanging outside her office in U-14. “Eventually we would like to present it to the right people, who might consider a change for the better at this campus,” Cosentino said.

with each employer before organizers called time and had students move on to the next employer. This form of speed networking gives students enough face-toface time with professionals to learn how they got their jobs, said Marcie Kirk-Holland of UC Davis’s Internship and Career Center. When it comes to online networking, career advisers urge students to proceed with caution. “We encourage students to be careful about what they put on their accounts. More and more employers use them as an additional way of checking out applicants,” she said. Half of employers think information posted on social networking sites should be taken into account when making hiring

decisions, according to a 2006 AfterCollege Inc. survey of 750 employers. About 37 percent said they wouldn’t hire someone if they discovered something questionable about them. Although 40 percent of employers Google prospective hires, only 12.5 percent check social networking sites. With that in mind, LinkedIn developed a function that allows users to push their profile up on the list of hits that appear when people Google them, Canfield said. When it comes to landing a job, Kirk-Holland tells students social networks have limited power. “Who you know will only get you in the door,” she said. “You still have to have the skills to do the job.”

KELLY RICHARDSON | THE TELESCOPE

Kenn Anderson, a sophomore fashion student, and Kate Derr, also a sophomore, eat their lunch off Styrofoam plates in the Student Union.

| OPINION

OUR VIEWPOINT

Budget cuts dangerous to the registration process Thanks to a proposed budget cut, California community colleges — Palomar included — are being forced to cut still more classes from their schedules. Recessions lead to unemployment. Unemployment, in turn, leads to an increase in demand for enrollment at community colleges. Despite this, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger wants to cut funding, even going so far as to revoke school faculty members’ Cost of Living Allowances and reducing apportionments by $292.4 million. The crisis may not necessarily be Palomar’s fault, but it is something that definitely needs to be taken into consideration more so than it has been. Not only are classes being removed from the rosters, but requests for adding previously available classes are being rejected, and opportunities to obtain the required classes for graduation and transfers are becoming slimmer. This wouldn’t be so bad if the administration would start better regulating new classes. Required classes are being reduced, which is a regrettable but not necessarily avoidable side effect of the economic situation. But does Palomar seriously have a dire need for, say, classes on “Cuban and Brazilian Drumming?” Meanwhile, Math 206 — a form of calculus — is only available as a four-days-a-week class, so anyone who needed that class for credits or transfers has extremely limited options. Students aren’t exactly known for having a lot of free time. Between work and their personal lives, not to mention other classes taking up their few remaining blocks of available time, the last thing they need is for classes to be unavailable at convenient times. Yet, for some reason, classes like that frivolous ethnic drum class are more readily available to students. When the administration realized they needed to start cutting classes, things like that should be the first to go, not core classes like math. At the press conference at which he proposed these budget cuts, Schwarzenegger emphasized that he expected districts to do their best to protect course offerings, especially for transfer students who are more likely to need specific classes. Why didn’t Deegan and company get that memo? And if they did, why are they ignoring it?

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008

Who cares about health care? TYPHANIE SHARFNER THE TELESCOPE

President-elect Barack Obama has made a promise of universal health care, but it would be more productive to focus on increasing funding for education instead. “There is a direct correlation between education and healthcare,” economist Jennifer Pakula said. “The more education a person has, the higher their productivity and therefore the healthier they are.” This is in reference to the assumption that a person who has a higher level of education can get a better job than someone who doesn’t. This could possibly include higher wages, health care benefits or the ability to afford private health care. This suggests that focusing on education would improve the health care of America’s citizens by default. Education has other benefits as well, such as an increase in life expectancy. “The one social factor that researchers agree is consistently linked to longer lives in every country where it has been studied

MONDAY NOV. 24, 2008

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. 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

ation we’re in right now is very slim.” According to the American Medical Student Association, the cost of universal health care would be at least $34 billion to $69 billion, plus whatever costs are associated with covering outof-pocket expenses and uncompensated care for the currently uninsured. With the economy currently in shambles, it seems highly unlikely that a universal health care plan will be successful. There are mixed feelings about Obama’s proposal, with some saying it’s a form of socialism. This is a very risky endeavor which could not only tarnish his presidency, but push America further into economic strain. However, if we spend the estimated billions of dollars on increasing financial aid, teacher salaries and improving schools, we would be giving a solution to the problem and incidentally enhancing the health and well being of American citizens. In doing so, we would cut longterm costs of emergency care, maintenance and health care in general.

Obama must tackle climate change — and quickly BOB FISHER MCT CAMPUS

Not long ago, all eyes focused on Nashville, where John McCain and Barack Obama engaged in the second presidential debate of the 2008 election season. The subject of the debate was largely centered on the economic crisis, with scarce discussion of, as Obama put it, “one of the biggest challenges of our times,” global climate change. These two issues, however, are more intertwined than either candidate indicated in the debate. Recent reports have shown that more than 2 million new “green jobs” can be created in coordination with efforts to tackle the climate crisis. We must embrace this challenge with creative and innovative ideas that continue to strengthen the economy with jobs here in America. In 2007, after a comprehensive review of the world’s best science, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found that the evidence documenting our changing climate and the role of human activity in climate instability is unequivocal. If left unchecked, global warming could threaten communities around the globe with more severe heat waves, drought and other extreme weather events by the end of the century. Former World Bank chief econJOSEPH BONNET | THE TELESCOPE

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR

is education,” health economist James Smith said as reported in the New York Times. According to the Children’s Defense Fund, individuals with low levels of education are more likely to engage in health-risk behaviors such as smoking and heavy drinking. They may not know about health risks or how to avoid them. To focus spending on universal health care is not fixing the problem — it is only putting a BandAid on the result. Education enhances a person’s overall well-being and goes beyond just those being helped. Those being educated are not only healthier, but can better contribute to the world around them. Therefore, education seems like a better long-term investment than universal health care. Instituting a universal health care system is more complex and possibly more expensive than giving more funding to programs, such as financial aid, that are already in place. “Universal health care is ridiculously expensive,” Pakula said. “The chances of something like that working in the financial situ-

VOLUME 62 NUMBER 10

omist Nicholas Stern estimated that the international cost of unabated climate change is already at least 5 percent of global per capita GDP. This could rise to 20 percent or more when accounting for a wider range of impacts. Obama clearly understands that the threat global warming poses to the world is so significant that the solutions must transcend partisanship. The candidates didn’t agree on the specific solutions during the election campaigns, but both acknowledged the economic benefits of reducing greenhouse gas pollution and ultimately solving the global warming challenge. Obama has stated that he will tackle the economy and energy within the first 100 days of office, which is likely to include climate change. The Presidential Climate Action Project sent letters to both candidates on Oct. 7, advising them to embrace energy efficiency and greenhouse gas restrictions as a way to stimulate the economy. That letter was endorsed by the Environmental Defense Fund, Environment America and the think tank Center for American Progress as well. The PCAP also published a “100 Day Action Plan” aimed at the 44th president, emphasizing goals of cutting greenhouse gas emissions 30 percent by 2020 and ultimately 80 percent by 2050. The Obama camp’s “New Energy

for America” plan lists these as goals, and that is an extremely encouraging start. What remains unclear is whether President Obama will invest the political capital necessary to turn our nation’s course on climate change after years of denial and delay. What this country and the planet needs is a president who is passionate about working with the 111th Congress to transform America’s energy economy _ as soon as possible. Beyond that, the United States must position itself as a leader in negotiating and implementing a worldwide global warming solution. If reducing U.S. greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050 sounds ambitious, consider that the scientific community posits the alternative as a cascade of natural disasters. Let us hope that the bipartisan discussion of climate change during the Belmont debate was only the beginning of a new chapter in finding the solution to “one of the biggest challenges of our times.” I urge President-elect Obama to make climate change a top priority, and regard the issue with the extreme urgency climate science suggests it requires. In the past we’ve issued similar pleas on behalf of endangered animal and plant species. The time has come for us to get selfish and to plead on behalf of future generations of humans, too.

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.

STAFF WRITERS |MAGGIE AVANTS, ALEX BREIDENTHAL, MELISSA CASTON, SHAWNNA CLEARY, NIGEL HARRIS, PETER KIM, CHRIS MEYER, EMILY MIKSAK, MELISSA RAYMOND, CYRILA RICHARDSON, TYPHANIE SHARFNER, MATT WADLEIGH, GRAIANNE WARD

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.

STAFF CARTOONISTS | JOSEPH BONNET

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS | JUAN ALVEREZ, ROBERT BACON, KATHERINE BUCHHOLZ, KRISTINE CHOY, JOSHUA GILLUM, MACKENZIE GRIMMER, ADAM HAAS, SHONA JACKSON, JEANETTE JOHNSON, CIARA KEITH, DAVID MACEDO, ANASTASIA MACGILLIVRAY, BART MAGOSKI, BRANDON MAGOSKI, THUCUC NGUYEN, CHRISTAL PASHAIAN, JACKIE PHILLIPS, LEILANI REED, KELLY RICHARDSON, JESSICA ROBERTS, HEATHER SNIDER, PETER TYLOR

ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS

CALIFORNIA NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION

CFAC CALIFORNIA FIRST AMENDMENT COALITION

JOURNALISM ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY COLLEGES

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE

Civil unions won’t cut it EMILY MIKSAK THE TELESCOPE

Thousands of people felt the hurt and sorrow that came along with the passing of California’s Proposition 8 this month. Thousands more had the dignity, responsibility and joy of being married taken away from them, as well as what should be one of the most fundamental freedoms for every American — equality under the law. Prop 8 was “a California State ballot proposition that amended the state Constitution to restrict the definition of marriage to a union between a man and a woman.” The official ballot title language for it was “Eliminates Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry.” It overrode a recent California Supreme Court decision that had recognized same-sex marriage in California as a fundamental right. Proponents claimed that the best situation for a child is to be raised by a married mother and father. They alleged that Prop. 8 is about preserving marriage, not “redefining” it. They claimed that if gay marriage was allowed, then the sanctity of marriage will be ruined.

First off, gay and lesbian couples are more than fit to provide a nurturing home for children. It is hard to understand how people could be against bringing more love into the world. Civil unions do not allow lesbian and gay couples to adopt. How can we refuse to let gay and lesbian couples adopt children when it could be the one and only thing that would save a child's life? Why would we want to decrease the amount of loving and caring parents who are more than willing to sacrifice their time and hard-earned money into raising a child? There is absolutely no evidence that children who are raised by gay parents grow up to be gay themselves. If they were to grow up differently than their peers, I would assume they would have a great deal of tolerance and acceptance. If marriage had never been redefined in the constitution, black people would not be allowed to marry white people in 16 states across the nation. It is scary to think about where our country would be if marriage was not redefined to change that horrible, horrible law. Marriages

among slaves were not recognized, exactly as marriages between gay and lesbian couples in California are not now. As it is, the divorce rate in America is 60 percent. Our society condones spur-ofthe-moment marriages and marrying for the purpose of wealth and fun. Do you remember Britney Spear’s 24-hour marriage? What sanctity of marriage? Britney Spears is a role-model for millions of young children and teens across the United States. The messages they are being sent aren’t going to benefit them in any way. If two people, gay or not, are in love and are willing to make a lifetime commitment to each other, they should be allowed to. Civil unions are not enough and are not anywhere equal to marriage. Every citizen of the United States has the right to share equally in the rights, commitment and responsibilities of civil marriage. If we want our choices, we need to let others have theirs. Prop. 8 should have come down to this; the golden rule. “Treat others as you would wish to be treated.” Embrace diversity.

OPINION | 5

SPEAK OUT!

Have you had any issues with next semester’s registration process?

“

I couldn’t enroll in my statistics class, even though I took the prerequisite three years ago. Once I got that cleared up and went back to register, the class was full!

”

—John Manning,communications

“

I didn’t have any problems, but I have learned from past experiences that if you wait too long, classes fill up.

”

— Elizabeth Aymin,undecided

“

When I entered the course number I needed, it came up with a different class and teacher than were in the schedule, but I was able to get the same class, just in a different section.

”

—Jimuel Abiaro,undecided

“

I’m mostly taking general ed. classes, so most of my classes were available. Working around my work schedule is the hard part for me.

”

— Sariah Sanz,undecided

“

I wasn’t able to get into my Zoology Lab 101 for the second semester in a row. I maybe went on one hour after my scheduled time slot, and the class was already full.

”

— Kevin Anderson,undecided

JOSEPH BONNET | THE TELESCOPE

This Smokeout, butt out cigarettes to help humans and animals HEATHER MOORE MCT CAMPUS

The Great American Smokeout is Nov. 20, but I think it should be observed every day of the year. Not only is smoking harmful to humans, it also hurts animals.The next time you're dying for a cigarette, remember that your friends, your relatives, your animal companions and animals in laboratories all suffer when you smoke. That will help deaden your desire for nicotine. By now, we all know the health risks associated with smoking. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men who smoke are 22 times more likely to die of lung cancer than those who don't. Female smokers are 12 times more likely to die of lung cancer than female nonsmokers. Smokers also have a higher risk of getting at least

eight other cancers, two to four times the risk of developing coronary heart disease and twice the likelihood of having a stroke. About 90 percent of all deaths from chronic obstructive lung diseases are attributed to smoking. People who are exposed to secondhand smoke face equally grim consequences. Breathing smoke — indoors or out — for even a short time has harmful effects on one's cardiovascular system. Exposing your loved ones to secondhand smoke increases their risk of heart disease and lung cancer by up to 30 percent. Passive smoke can cause sudden infant death syndrome and serious respiratory problems in children. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts and Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine have found that passive smoke harms animals too. A case

control study showed that cats living with smokers are more than twice as likely to suffer from feline lymphoma, a deadly form of cancer. Other studies suggest that environmental smoke can cause lung and nasal cancer in dogs. Joe Camel might have taken a few drags, but real animals would never inhale tobacco on their own. Yet mice, rats, ferrets, dogs and primates continue to be mutilated, pumped full of nicotine and forced to inhale smoke in cruel, archaic laboratory experiments. In studies funded by the government, experimenters have cut holes in beagles' throats and made them breathe concentrated cigarette smoke for seven days a week for up to five years. They've inserted electrodes into dogs' penises to see if smoke affected their sexual performance and cut

living dogs' chests open to study how cigarette smoke causes airway irritation and coughing. They've also forced rhesus monkeys and baboons to breathe cigarette smoke daily for up to three years to determine how it affects their hearts and exposed pregnant monkeys to nicotine to observe its detrimental effects on their fetuses. In a recent experiment at a major U.S. tobacco company, more than 1,000 mice and rats were killed after being forced to breathe cigarette smoke to test the effects of adding high-fructose corn syrup to cigarettes as a flavoring agent — even though U.S. law doesn't require tobacco products to be tested on animals (American Spirit cigarettes are not) and even though everything we know about smoking-related diseases has come from population and clinical studies, not from

animal experiments. Different animals have different reactions to toxins and diseases, so they don't make good models for humans. The experiments are also inaccurate because animals in laboratories aren't normally exposed to nicotine in the same manner and on the same time schedule as humans. Nevertheless, millions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of animal lives have been wasted on experiments that are so inhumane and irrelevant that they've been banned in Britain for more than a decade and were recently banned in Belgium. That alone should convince you to butt out cigarettes for good. When you consider all the risks of smoking — to humans and animals alike — you'll surely find the strength to kick the habit once and for all.

6 | NEWS

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE

GALA

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Business owner Ray Lucia received the award for honored alumnus. He a former Palomar student who made his mark at Palomar as an outstanding quarterback and teammate. He had one of the top four passing yardage totals through the middle 1980s. Today, Lucia is the founder of Raymond Lucia Companies, Inc., which is headquartered in San Diego. The firm is one of the largest financial planning companies in the world with offices across the nation. He is also a best-selling author. He also hosts the Ray Lucia Show in over 70 cities and talks about business and finances. Among other talents, Lucia has a passion for music. He said he was able to pay his way through college playing guitar. “Music is a huge part of me, it’s in my blood,” Lucia said. “Ray is quite the musician, you should definitely ask him to play something,” friend and business associate Ben Stein said.

DISPUTE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

process to our peers, the campus community or the Governing Board,” Kovrig said. Deegan said that several attempts have been made to replace the four members with other members from the classified staff and continue with the study. It has not happened. “Right now, we are stalled,” Deegan said. “We thought we had an agreement. Hopefully this is a minor issue and we can move forward.” Unfortunately, CCE members are not taking this lightly, and have asked the district to enter binding arbitration. This type of arbitration would supply mediators to the college, and the final outcome would have

A T

JESSICA ROBERTS | THE TELESCOPE

Robert and Pam Deegan attended the $250-per-plate gala. The event raised over $150,000 for Palomar College. The community leadership was awarded to Donald and Darlene Shiley for their outstanding contributions to Palomar. Between the years of 1995-2007 the Shileys donated over $159,000 to Palomar College. Donald Shiley developed the BjorkShiley heart value and other other lifesav-

to be agreed upon by the district and CCE. Kovrig said that it is unlikely the district will agree to this, and that their problems stem from different definitions of a “metoo” clause in their contract. The district instead would agree to unbinding arbitration, which Kovrig feels would be a waste of money. Deegan stated that in February, the CCE agreed to a “me-too” clause when a final agreement was reached in a separate negotiation with the Palomar Faculty Federation. According to Deegan and Vice President of Human Resources John Tortarolo, the clause meant that any increase given would be used in the same manner for faculty members and staff members. In a letter dated July 15,

ing medical equipment. He was not at the ceremony, so the award was presented to his wife Darlene Shiley. “We donate over half of our income every year,” Darlene Shiley said. “We have set up a fund that all our money will go to charity when we die, but I really enjoy watching it work and seeing the impact it

has on others.” Next Joseph Madrigal was honored for his work on the Palomar College campus community. Madrigal has served as vice president of student services since 1996. Madrigal graduated from Chico state in 1969 and went on to obtain his master’s degree from Harvard University. Madrigal is an influential leader at the Palomar campus and continues to strive for excellence through out the campus. “The community college level is so important and is where most students build their skills to achieve greater things in life,” Madrigal said. “I hope to instill a sense of worth and respect in my students and encourage them that they can achieve anything.” The gala helps to raise money for student scholarships as well as other student services. Ticket prices ranged from $250 per person to $15,000 platinum sponsorship, which included premier seating at two tables of 10, among other perks. Guests participated in live and silent auctions as well as casino-style gambling. The evening was capped off with a gourmet dinner, student performances and dancing.

Tortarolo stated the district and trict’s plan to use the “me-too” the classified employees do not clause in this manner. disagree on the amount of com“It’s like comparing apples and pensation, they disagree on how kumquats,” Kovrig said. “Our it should be dispersed. salary schedule is set up com“The displetely diftrict sees no ferent than significant the faculty’s change to its is. Past pracposition in tice shows this matter,” that a classiTo r t a r o l o fied increase said. He said has never — Neill Kovrig been used to the “me-too” provision, as Council of Classified Employees, President fund a classiit was applied fication to PFF matrix equity, is akin to study.” how it should be applied to CCE’s Deegan said the study, once classification study. completed, will cost about The faculty agreement allowed $140,000, while the money in money to be used to complete a question is about $137,000 a matrix equity study for improve- month spread out among roughly ments to their salary schedule. 450 classified employees. CCE disagrees with the disAccording to Tortarolo, the dis-

“

We are the face of this campus. We are the first faces students see.

”

trict cannot guarantee that any additional funds above the .72 percent will become available to complete the classification study. In these economic times, however, Kovrig said he feels that classified staff could find good use for the small amount of money the increase would give. “It would mean a bag of groceries, or a tank of gas,” Kovrig said. He is also worried about students sensing the controversy on campus. He encouraged CCE members to voice concerns in union meetings, but said while on the job they should not show their frustration. “We are the face of this campus,” Kovrig said. “We are the first faces students see when they come here, and the last.”

Continue

your education without putting your life on hold National University’s unique one-course-per-month format, including onsite and online courses, lets you finish your degree at an accelerated pace—while keeping up with work, family, and friends. And, to make transferring even easier, qualifying California community college students are guaranteed admission! We have 27 campuses in California, and offer financial aid and scholarships. Classes start each month and you can register at any time. So why wait?

TRANSFER TO NATIONAL UNIVERSITY TODAY! 1.800.NAT.UNIV © National University 2008

w w w. n u . e d u / t r a n s f e r

The University of Values ™

14 convenient San Diego locations

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008| THE TELESCOPE

ENTERTAINMENT |

Faculty art and photography exhibit now open MELISSA RAYMOND THE TELESCOPE

Diversity of spirit and mix of experience is the sense one gets from the Palomar Faculty Art Exhibit at the Boehm Gallery, which runs through Dec. 13. This yearly event runs every fall and allows Palomar’s faculty to show off their work. Each full-time member shows two pieces and the part-time faculty exhibits one, with some of the pieces available for purchase and others only for show. Patrons to the exhibit will find photography, painting, sculpture and three dimensional pieces. They are varied in subject matter and media usage, from sculptures made from ceramic, wire, metal antennas and other such elements to traditional oil painting on canvas. Some students are impressed with the work displayed, such as Moran Nhel, both a student and sculptor. “The quality (of art) here. A lot of them (other schools) can’t compare to this,” he said. Regarding a piece by Brian Canfield, Palomar student Cassidy Fifielski said, “It is interesting. I like how it is a mosaic. It stands out more than the others.” The piece is a painted stained glass recreation of page 5 in the “Hulk” comic book, titled, “Hulk #1 Page 5,” which is mounted in a box with a light behind it. This new twist on an old media gives the viewer an enjoyable experience in colors and a spirit of invention. Another stand out in the exhibit was the mixed media piece called “Arrival” by Lilly Glass in collaboration with Madelyn Bryne, composer. The piece is a video projection

on the wall with a statute in front of it. The video displays a computer generated kaleidoscope of varying colors, while music plays. This piece compels the viewer to stand still and experience the entire cycle of the video and then YUKIE ZUILL | THE TELESCOPE some.The shifting patGuests enjoy diverse artwork and photography showcased at the Palomar College Faculty Art and Photography Exhibition. terns slid across the statute’s face to give a objects.005 (Trojan Horse)” and Carol Nye’s piece “Flora sense of “Arrival.” Colentes — The Destruction of Greenhouses.” The greenThe exhibit has some interesting pieces in the ceramic house piece drew the viewer in with its effective contrast and sterling silver. Each was its own experience in analy- of a clear and focused screen and a blurred but recognizsis and conveyance. Trent Berning’s piece “Thorax able image of a greenhouse through a tear in the screen. Aspect” was eye-catching and caused the viewer to look There were pieces that did not create a sense intrigue closer and with the closer look they saw more color and or a thought-provoking experience. One was Stephen detail. Curry’s oil on canvas titled “Constellation # 20.” The col“I really enjoy surrealism, so I throw in imperfections,” ors for this piece are inviting but it did not create a strong he said about his work at the exhibit reception on Nov. 6. reaction at first glance. Sasha Reibstein’s pieces “OSS1-31608BER” and Another such piece was the photograph “Rapid “Revival #2, #4, #5” done for a series in Berlin, Germany, Relapse” by Paul Stachelek; the initial image is striking also made the viewer look closer. An intriguing experi- with interesting colors, but it gives an impression of being ence in the mixing of electronic parts, antlers and ceram- over-worked. ic gave a sense of chaos and creation. The Annual Faculty Art exhibit provides a chance to see The photography pieces were diverse in their content many different artists. It also invites the viewer to briefly from nude to landscape and conception. Some were very experience the spirit of each artist and their very diverse strong in presentation like Ingram Ober’s backlit digital points of views. The exhibit allows one to see “what other prints piece “They seem to be attracted to shiny kinds of art there are,” according to Fifielski.

YUKIE ZUILL | THE TELESCOPE

Palomar faculty member Helen Wilson has a piece titled,“Charles and His Toy” on display at the latest the Boehm Gallery exhibition. This is just one one of the many pieces on display. This exhibit will be open from now until Dec. 13.

8 | ENTERTAINMENT

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE

Will Obama’s victory force hip-hop to change its tune? GREG KOT MCT CAMPUS

Barack Obama was in his last year of high school in 1979 when hip-hop broke out of the ghettos of New York on its way to becoming a national phenomenon. He is in many ways a child of hip-hop, but sometimes a reluctant one. Even as the president-elect claims to “love hip-hop” he has spoken out against its more explicit lyrics. When Ludacris released “Obama’s Here” a few months ago, the Southern rapper extolled the future president’s credentials while viciously putting down Obama’s rivals. An Obama spokesman issued a stinging rebuke: “While Ludacris is a talented rapper he should be ashamed of these lyrics.” Yet Obama has been embraced by the hip-hop community like no presidential candidate in history. Bill Clinton was the first president to forge a bond with the ‘60s and ‘70s classic-rock generation (even persuading Fleetwood Mac to reunite and perform at his inaugural ball in 1993). Obama now commands the respect of the voters who came of age when hip-hop transformed pop culture. The non-partisan group Hip-Hop Caucus and rappers T.I., Jay-Z, T Pain and others spearheaded the “Respect My Vote” campaign, which registered voters between the ages of 18 and 29, most of whom voted for Obama. Will.i.am wrote and produced no fewer than three songs in recent months extolling the Obama campaign, including the YouTube hit video “Yes We Can.” Rappers such as Common, a native of Chicago’s South Side, and New York’s Talib Kweli were dropping Obama references into

their songs as early as 2007. The video for Common’s ‘07 hit “The People” flashed on an “Obama ‘08” bumper sticker. At the time, it seemed like wishful thinking: A black man in the White House? But hip-hop, at its best, has always functioned on two levels: as a reflection of what’s happening now (“the black CNN,” as Public Enemy’s Chuck D once called it) and as a window into the future (rap songs by Ice Cube and Ice-T, among others, presaged the riots that broke out after the 1992 verdict in the Rodney King beating). Though hip-hop initially emerged as an art form primarily developed by African-Americans, it soon became a shared language for youth that cut across racial lines. Just as rock ‘n’ roll galvanized teenagers in the ‘50s, hiphop in the ‘80s and ‘90s linked inner-city b-boys with listeners living in soccer-mom households in the suburbs. By the end of the last decade, together with contemporary R&B, hip-hop had become the biggest selling genre in the $14 billion-a-year music industry. Obama has embraced hip-hop whenever he has been asked about the subject in interviews, specifically citing Jay-Z, Kanye West and Common as personal favorites. But he also has been outspoken in his disgust for rap lyrics that go too far. “There are times, even on the artists I’ve named, the artists that I love, that there is a message that’s sometimes degrading to women, uses the ‘n’ word a little too frequently,” he said in an interview on BET. “But also something that I’m really concerned about is (they’re) always talking about material things, about how I can get something; more money, more cars.”

In the wake of racially charged remarks by talk show host Don Imus last year, Obama said rap wasn’t blameless because it too contained derogatory language. Hip-hop pioneer Russell Simmons called Obama “a mouse, too, like everyone else,” and urged him to take a closer look at the social conditions that made such lyrics commonplace. In the wake of Obama’s victory, Simmons struck a more conciliatory tone, calling it a “glorious” affirmation of “the hip-hop generation and its young people.” “I was just defending hip-hop,” he said of his earlier criticism of Obama. “It’s good for politicians to say they’re against hip-hop. But hip-hop’s job is to tell the truth, and the truth can be shocking.” Though many older activists didn’t believe Obama could win the presidency, convinced that his race was too big of a barrier, the “hip-hop generation said, ‘Why not?’” Simmons said. “It’s like when Run-DMC first appeared on MTV. There really hadn’t been any black artists on MTV offering a real depiction of inner-city life, and hip-hop broke that barrier. Hip-hop’s attitude has always been, ‘Why not?’” But activist Rev. Al Sharpton said Obama’s victory will force hip-hop to change its tune. “You can’t be using the ‘b’ word, the ‘n’ word, the ‘h’ word when you have Barack Obama redefining overnight the image that black people want to have. Here’s the greatest political victory in the history of black America, and the thug rappers can’t come near it. They will have to change or become irrelevant.” Simmons says that’s hogwash. “Young people will use their language the way they want,” he said. “If it’s in their heart, they will express it.”

‘Call of Duty:World at War’ won’t disappoint

points, which place the first player as the target for the A.I. and leaves the second player able to easThe “Call of Duty” fran- ily flank computer oppochise has become a power- nents. house in the first-person The graphics, although shooter genre offering play- good, are only a slight ers games with decent stories upgrade from “Call of Duty 4.” One of the and great multiplayer. “Call of Duty: World at biggest flaws of the game is the invisible walls that War” is no different. “World at War” comes one plague players. In one of the beginning year after “Call of Duty 4: Modern VIDEO GAME REVIEW stages of the game there is a camp of Warfare” and offers Japanese soldiers enough new features to keep players and there are a engaged. couple of buildOne of the most ings, none of which exciting features is can be entered for the cooperative camcover. “Call of paign, where players Duty 4” handled have the option to this by closing the play split screen or ‘Call of Duty: doors. The amount over XBOX Live. The of cover that is World at War’ cooperative mode is penetrable by bulHHH reminiscent of Halo 3 lets is also OUT OF FOUR STARS COURTESY PHOTO | MCT CAMPUS where players are decreased making working toward the for awkward situ- “Call of Duty: World at War” is the fifth game from the “Call of Duty” franchise just released for the XBOX gaming system. The new “World same goal but are trying to ations where players will at War” provides players with realistic weapons that give gamers the feeling of really being in battle. get the most points. think that something This mode is great at points would work well for “Call of Duty” they once are amazing. For instance, this game. “World at War” but also has its flaws. An cover and it is not the case. knew. The overall tone of the the addition of a flamethrow- also uses the same system of example would be that the The game definitely earns game is more serious than er will have players sitting gaining experience to rank back enjoying it. The game up. players are the same person its mature rating, as players previous installments. until players reach trigger will notice that it is not the Some changes have been The weapons in this game also adds vehicles that are fun to use. made to multiplayer. The The single player level cap has increased, story puts players in which means more perks have the Pacific Theater been added. Players also where they will fight gain perks for the vehicles. battles not commonly Players have the ability to seen in World War II prestige after achieving the shooters. highest rank. Going into Another part of the prestige resets the rank of campaign will have the player and gives them a players playing the mark to show that they have part of a Russian who, achieved the highest rank with his unit, is march- one time and are going ing to Germany. The through the process once story is decent and the more. The game is worth the voice acting is also money if players are looking good. As was the case with for an updated version of “Call of Duty 4,” the “Call of Duty 4,” or if players multiplayer will keep are looking for a new World players coming back to War II shooter this season. NIGEL HARRIS THE TELESCOPE

ENTERTAINMENT | 9

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008| THE TELESCOPE

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Friday, Nov. 28 Who: Jonny Lang w/Jason Eskridge What: Blues/Rock Where: House of Blues Anaheim Cost: $40-$42.50 More info: (714) 778-BLUE

Saturday, Nov. 29 COURTESY PHOTO | MCT CAMPUS

The latest James Bond film,“Quantum of Solace,” finally hits the big screen. Daniel Craig reprises his role as James Bond and Olga Kurylenko co-stars as one of the new Bond girls, Camille.

‘Quantum of Solace’scraps tradition MONIQUE GARCIA THE TELESCOPE

Jason Bourne films. The action shows depth and gives insight shots are too shaky and chaot- to how Bond came to be. ic; it’s difficult to make sense “Quantum of Solace” was of what’s going on. Many of the Craig’s chance to solidify his role as the MI6 secret scenes are chopped agent. Instead, this up and replaced with MOVIE REVIEW of portrayal sort blurs of bright colors makes it difficult to flashing on the ‘Quantum of distinguish “Quantum screen, a departure Solace’ of Solace” from any from the previous H other shoot’em up, Bond films. OUT OF FOUR STARS action movie released “Quantum of to date. Solace” simply does- STARRING: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Giancarlo However, it’s hard to n’t hold up to the clas- Giannini, Mathieu Amalric, blame Craig for this sic James Bond fran- Olga Kurylenko, Gemma Arterton less-than-adequate chise. Bond movie. He does Bond is a charismatRATED: PG-13 a fantastic job acting, ic, extremely smart, as do his other co-stars humorous and unbelievably skillful secret agent. It Mathieu Amalric, Judi Dench, is Bond’s charm and dry wit, Olga Kurylenko, Giancarlo along with his never-ending Giannini and Gemma Arterton. expertise in anything that has They simply didn’t have much carried the Bond franchise into to work with. Clearly, the director and screenwriters are to its 22nd film. The James Bond portrayed in blame for this debacle. Haggis, “Quantum of Solace” is a socio- Forster, pathic, cold-blooded killer. Purvis and Wade Craig’s portrayal of Bond is seemed to ignore completely devoid of any of the what has given the characteristics that are synony- Bond franchise an mous with the 007 agent. Craig unsurpassed track shows Bond as a heartless, record and instead were hoping to rugged and brash hit man. What’s upsetting is that change James Bond Craig gives us a taste of what into a completely he is capable of in “Casino different character. “Quantum of Royale.” Craig’s first portrayal of the well-loved James Bond Solace” threw out

anything that we have come to know as James Bond, the MI6 007 secret service agent. Amazingly, there is only one, almost non-existent romantic escapade with a lady, there is no Moneypenny, Q and his gadgets are missing and there is nothing at all eccentric or quirky about the film’s villain. But the worst cardinal sin is that there is not one single time that James Bond delivers the famous line, “The name’s Bond. James Bond.” “Quantum of Solace” is a slap in the face to the classic character that is James Bond. For those looking to for a quick thrill of an action packed movie, “Quantum of Solace” is it. However, for those who already know who Bond is and want see his latest adventure, stay home and put in your favorite Bond DVD.

“Quantum of Solace” is the latest legendary James Bond adventure to hit the theaters. Being the 22nd Bond film and following the huge success of “Casino Royale,” there were big expectations from director Marc Forster to bring the Bond franchise to a new level. Unfortunately, the new chapter Forster brings to the big screen is no different than any other action flick, making it forgettable at best. “Quantum of Solace” picks up where “Casino Royale” leaves off. After the death of Bond’s (Daniel Craig) great love, Vesper Lynd, the 007 agent is now out for revenge on the secret organization that is responsible. It is Bond’s quest for vengeance that leads him to the film’s villain, Dominic Greene (Mathieu Amalric). Beyond that there isn’t much more plot. The storyline doesn’t gain momentum until about halfway through the film and by that time you’re done caring. From start to finish “Quantum of Solace” is an endless string of explosions, gun shots, car chases and plane crashes. There is hardly any dialogue. In fact, it seems as if M (Judi Dench) has more lines than the famed 007. Forster and screenwriters Paul Haggis, Neal Purvis and Robert Wade fail miserably when it comes to the storyline. It appears as if they have decided to skimp on the plot and put more focus on special effects and editing. The editing does have its high points. One heavy action scene in particular intertwines the violence and mayhem between Bond and his villains, with the action scenes of a musical production. The back and forth play between the two events is very artistic, making it interesting to watch. However, the bulk of the camera work is too close to COURTESY PHOTO | MCT CAMPUS COURTESY PHOTO | MCT CAMPUS the action. The film work is Daniel Craig plays the famous James Bond for a second time. similar to that seen in the Joaquin Cosio (left) and Mathieu Amalric (right) play villains in new 007 film.

Who: The English Beat w/Self Made Men What: Reggae/Soul/Pop Where: Belly Up Tavern Cost: $18-$20 More info: (858) 481-8140

Sunday, Nov. 30 Who: Bell BivDevoe What: R&B Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $30-$50 More info: (619) 299-BLUE

Monday, Dec. 1 Who: Raine Maida What: Rock Where: Belly Up Tavern Cost: $6 More info: (858) 481-8140

Friday, Dec. 5 Who: Wu-Tang Clan What: Rap/Hip-hop Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $42.50-$52.50 More info: (619) 299-BLUE

Saturday, Dec. 6 Who: Telsa w/Cinder Road What: Heavy Metal Where: House of Blues Anaheim Cost: $30-$32.50 More info: (714) 778-BLUE

Sunday, Dec. 7 Who: The Mar Dels What: Swing/Rock Where: Belly Up Tavern Cost: $7 More info: (858) 481-8140

Monday, Dec. 8 Who: Bad Brains What: Punk Where: House of Blues Anaheim Cost: $25-27.50 More info: (714) 778-BLUE

| FOCUS

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008

Thanksgiving healthy style Six ways to adapt your favorite holiday traditions to meet a healthy lifestyle KRISTINA MORENO THE TELESCOPE

Start your day off right

only way to maintain your weight is to keep the balance between exercise and your calorie intake. Deanna Latson, an award-winning keynote speaker and health educator, estimates that the average person consumes 4,500 calories on Thanksgiving. “That is about the equivalent of eight greasy hamburgers,” Latson said. to According caloriecontrol.org a healthy diet consists of consuming 2,000 calories a day. This means on average most people consume over twice the daily recommended calorie intake on Thanksgiving. Do yourself a favor and get some exercise. Instead of watching TV, get some friends and family together and play a game of football or go for a walk.

Many people think that by skipping a meal it will help them lose weight by saving calories. While in theory this may sound like a good idea, things tend not to work out that way. According to weightwatchers.com, skipping meals — especially breakfast can slow down your metabolism. When you skip meals your body goes into starvation mode, which means it slows down your metabolism to compensate. Skipping meals also alters your body’s blood sugar levels which can cause you to crave more food than you actually need, which usually leads to over eating at the next meal. This Thanksgiving try a highSometimes downing fiber breakfast like oatmeal cocktail after cocktail is and peanut butter. This should the only safe way to keep you full and prevent you make it through a holiday with from craving fatty foods. the family. But when it comes to being healthy, a few drinks can really drive up your calorie intake way. to According Even though it may be tempting to plop down caloriecounter.com a 3.5 ounce on the couch and watch glass of red wine contains 88 calories, and lets be honest — football all day, don’t. Get outside and be active. The no one is drinking only 3.5

Go easy on the booze

Don’t be a couch potato

ounces. Alcohol also lowers your blood pressure. When this occurs signals get sent to your brain that can be confused with hunger, according to the University of Rochester health services promotions Web Site. Try limiting yourself to two drinks, one while socializing before dinner and one during dinner. Also remember to drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated. Drinking water will also help you to feel full and avoid snacking throughout the day.

Control yourself Thanksgiving is a time for everyone to prepare their favorite dishes and share with the whole family. Variety is always a good thing when eating but when there are 10 types of potatoes and you want them all, variety can become your worst enemy. To prevent yourself from overeating check out the entire spread before you start filling your plate. Then pick one type of the less healthy options such as meats, breads, potatoes and cream of anything. Once you have picked those out you can let loose and pile your plate as high as you want with grilled and steamed veggies. The rule of thumb is usually eat until you don’t feel hungry anymore. Don’t feel the need to over eat chances are there will be leftovers for weeks to come. Limit yourself to only one serving, and when it comes to

dessert only have a half a slice of pie, or one small scoop of ice cream.

Take your time Dinner is not a marathon. Eat slowly and enjoy your food. “It takes the stomach 20 minutes to tell your brain it’s full,” Latson said. So instead of rushing through your dinner and darting back to the kitchen for seconds, slow down and take your time. Catch up with family and friends and engage in conversations while eating. The longer you take to eat your food the more accurate your body will be in letting you know if you are really still hungry. When you are finally done with your meal, leave the room. Getting the smell and sight of food away from you should help you to not eat when you really don’t need to. Out of sight—out of mind.

Go low-fat when possible Many of the staple Thanksgiving recipes are traditionally loaded with fatty ingredients that you really don’t need. Most dishes that require heavy cream can be made just as well by substituting low-fat or non-fat milk. When using condensed soups always substitute for the fatfree or low-sodium versions. They taste just as good and are way better for you. This goes for chicken broth as well. Using these healthier alternatives will allow you to enjoy more of your favorite dishes without all the calories. As for desserts try no-sugar added ice creams and pies and use fresh fruits instead of canned syrupy fruit whenever possible. Jello is also a great, fat-free dessert along with pudding made with Splenda — and it’s Bill Cosby approved.

Helpful tips According to healthcastle.com, a Web site dedicated to good nutrition, these are some substitutions that can be used in many Thanksgiving recipes to lighten the calorie and fat load. RECIPE CALLS FOR...

LIGHTEN UP WITH...

1 egg

2 egg whites

Sour cream

Low fat plain yogurt

Ice cream

Frozen yogurt

Whipped cream

Fat free Cool Whip

Butter

Low fat butter or olive oil

Cream of mushroom

Fat-free cream of mushroom

Drink of the week KRISTINA MORENO THE TELESCOPE

such as Captain Morgan, and two ounces of vanilla vodka into an ice shaker.

The martini has long been a favorite cocktail for just about any 3. Add 3 tablespoons of pumpkin occasion. puree. But with fall in full swing nothing spices things up like adding pump4. Add one splash of half-andkin to just about anything. The pumpkin martini is a fun half and triple sec. drink that can be enjoyed on its own 5. Place lid on shaker and shake or served as a dessert during your vigorously for 60 seconds. holiday get together.

Grocery List: •Spiced rum •Vanilla vodka •Pumpkin puree •Half-and-half •Bols Triple Sec Preparation: 1. Place 1/2 a cup of ice in martini shaker. 2. Pour one ounce of spiced rum,

6. Strain into chilled martini glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and dollop of whipped cream. For those who aren’t big on drinking or are underage but still want to enjoy a tasty pumpkin beverage you can replace the vanilla vodka with vanilla extract. Instead of triple sec try orange flavored coffee syrup, and drop the splash of half-and-half in favor of a 1/2 cup of non-

fat milk. Shake over ice and strain into a martini glass, or throw it in the blender and enjoy. While these pumpkin martinis may be delicious, try to limit yourself to just one, each martini contains about 350 calories.

Editors note: Please remember the drinking age in California is 21. If you are under 21 and caught drinking the fine is $1,000. Always drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

DIVERSIONS | 11

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE xkcd

Brewster Rockit: Space Guy

by Tim Rickard

by Randall Munroe (xkcd.com)

Horoscopes By Linda C. Black

Aries (March 21-April 19) If one door closes, don’t worry. Another will open soon. Make choices based on your long-term objectives. If you don’t have any of those, make up something, fast!

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Share the load with a person who’s always ready to lend a hand. Even if you have to pay, it’s a luxury you can afford. Besides, it’s always good to spread the wealth around.

Nov. 24 not have had much time to indulge that passion lately. You can do it now, however. You can make the time.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) You have a lot on your mind, and that’s perfectly OK. You’ll have to make some decisions soon, so do the preparation. You already know some of the things you want to check, and you’ll think of more as you go along.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Continue to give your friends guidance; they depend on you. It’s just about time to get back They also like you to cheer them to work. Today won’t be that bad, up when they get miserable. You but there’ll be tons to do tomor- love to do that, of course. It’s one of your natural talents. row. Prepare as well as you can.

Gemini (May 21-June 21)

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

You’ll have to be directive. If you want them to stay out of your kitchen, for example, make sure that’s perfectly clear. If you need workers to help, don’t wait for volunteers, draft them.

Review your plans in light of recent changes. Make sure you pick out the right course, especially if others are following you. That’s just one of the jobs you take on when you agree to be a leader.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Read the fine print, so you know Meetings should go well. what you’re getting.Also be careful what you say, so you’ll know what You’ll inspire each other. you’re giving. Actually, you can You’re on the team that figures out if these ideas will work, or afford to be more generous now. you should be. Don’t let your idealism cloud your analytical thinking. Invest in a new tool to make your workplace more efficient. It’s OK to make it more comfortYou’re at that awkward phase able, too. Making yourself happy in a business where you have to always makes things go better. figure out what to do to bring in money later. Do the numbers. Also, consult people who have You’re an avid reader. You may successful businesses.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

|COMET SPORTS

MONDAY, NOV. 24, 2008 | THE TELESCOPE

COMET SPORTS IN BRIEF

Palomar beats Knights, loses first conference game this year to Mesa

Furthering its dominance in the Pacific Coast Conference, the Palomar women’s volleyball team defeated San Diego City (25-13, 25-20, 25-16) Nov. 7 at the Dome. With the win, the Comets extended their winning streak to 13 and remained ranked No. 4 in the California Colleges Athletic Community Association’s polls. The Comets improved their record 183 on the season and 9-0 in conference play staying atop the PCC standings. Alex Barsotti led the way for the Comets, recording 11 kills. Audrey Green contributed eight kills and six blocks. Aimee Bird had 30 assists and 10 digs. Five days later on Nov. 12, the Comets lost their first conference game at San Diego Mesa (16-25, 17-25, 22-25). The Comets dropped four spots in the Nov. 18 poll after the loss. Audrey Green had 10 kills and Audrey Bird recorded 28 assists in the loss.

Men’s basketball goes 2-1, places third in Knights Invitational

The Palomar men's basketball team went 2-1 to place third in the Knights Invitational at San Diego City College which wrapped up Nov. 16. Palomar advanced to 3-1 on the season. The Comets opened up the tournament with an 83-72 win over Napa Valley Nov. 14. Sophomore guard Theo Overstreet led the Comets with 20 points. Richard LaFleur contributed 14 points and seven rebounds, while freshman guards Ross Williams and Kevin Deeb each scored 11 points. Down two points late in the first half Nov. 15, the Comets lost to defending state champion and No. 1-ranked Citrus 94-69 in the tournament semifinals as the Owls pulled away in the final 10 minutes.

PETER TYLOR | THE TELESCOPE

Alex Barsotti had 11 kills to help the Comets defeat San Diego City Nov. 7 at the Dome. The Comets extended their winning streak to 13 games and improved to 9-0 in conference. Williams led the Comets with 18 points against Citrus. Richard LaFleur scored 16 points. Robinson grabbed nine rebounds. The Comets closed out the tournament, defeating Santa Barbara City College 7657. Freshman wing Jonathan Allen led the Comets with 13 points against the Vaqueros. Cory Leitzke and Neiko Robinson dominated the boards with eight rebounds each. Williams passed for five assists. Williams was named to the all-tournament team.

Comet football players receive All-SFCA honors

Five Palomar football players were named to the All-SCFA National Division Southern Conference first team Nov. 18. Five others made the second team while 11 players received honorable mentions for their performances. Players receiving first team honors were center Mike Tuimavave, guard Sam Tapua tackle Brice Schwab and linebackers David Motu and Nate Paopa.

Wide receiver Martavious Lee, running back Tyler Lavea, quarterback Matt Christian, cornerback Anthony Young and kick returner Orenzo Davis were named to the second team. Palomar’s honorable mention honorees were guard Tom Berry, tackle Justin Klingerman, receiver Paul Moore, tackles Jordan Peiler and Jonathan Mitchell, end Andrew Sugg, linebacker Shane Melbo, cornerback Chris Calvert, safety Brett Wininger, safety Loa Madon and punter Briton Forester.

Women’s basketball defeats Hornets with ease at home

the game with 12 points. Kristin Marquardt had 11 points and Nicole Pedrotti had 10 points, generating most It might not have been pretty, but the of the offense. Despite ball control issues in the first Palomar women’s basketball team got it done defeating Irvine Valley 70-45 half, the Comets led the Lasers by 10 points at halftime. Nov. 12 in their home open70 COMETS “She was angry about our er at the Dome. 45 communication, not talkThe Comets, ranked No. 3 LASERS ing, intensity and not in the state by the UP NEXT forward rebounding,” California Community Fullerton at Palomar JaDawn Holler said about College Women's Jennum at halftime. Nov. 21 Coaches Basketball The Comets regained Association, improved to 46 p.m. some of their composure 1 on the season. and worked hard to make The first minute of play AT STAKE sure their lead never disapwas anything but positive peared. Midway through for the Comets as Megan The Comets face the the second half, the Comets O’Farrell went down with Hornets at home, a team really started to come an injury. ranked No. 14 in the state together making less mis“She’s going in to get xtakes while maintaining rayed and twisted her knee and No. 8 in the south. ball control. pretty bad,” coach Sheri “You see glimpses of it tonight, but Jennum said. O’Farrell was helped off the court we’ll get it all together by the time conand taken to the locker room for treat- ference rolls around,” Jennum said. Palomar appeared to have issues with ment and was on crutches following the stamina after competing in the Mt. San game. Kiara Stinson replaced O’Farrell and Antonio Tournament three days prior. “I think they were still a little bit contributed with six points while doing a majority of the ball handling at point tired from opening weekend and they are not quite in basketball shape like guard. “I just like playing her at the off- they will be at the end of the year,” guard spot,” Jennum said. “The bum- Jennum said “ I think tonight was a litmer about a situation like this is she tle bit of rusty residual tiredness so I had to stay at the one (point guard) all think that contributed to why we didn’t do as well, but we’ll get better.” night. She is a really good scorer.” Nicole Wilhite was the lead scorer in CHRIS MEYER THE TELESCOPE