The Telescope 62.21 by The Telescope

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR

PALOMAR COLLEGE, SAN MARCOS, CALIF.

Photo class field trip PAGE 6

MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009

VO L. 62 , NO . 21

Spring Fest 2009

THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Death Valley Spring ‘09

Professor teaches with music JAVIER TOVAR FOR THE TELESCOPE

The first of two presentations of “The Music of Native Technical difficulties were no America” took place April 21 problem to Professor Alan in a nearly full Governing Board Aquallo, who Room SSC-1. The second was Lechusza April replaced 22, at technology t h e with Native Va l l e y American Center songs during Library. a special presT h e entation last presenmonth. — ALAN LECHUSSA AQUALLO t a t i o n The audiPalomar Professor t o p i c s ence listened ranged as Aquallo performed various from traditional to contempotunes from a variety of flutes, including one that was made of rary Native American music. It on included information Lemonwood,

“

This is a wake-up call to the importance and meaning of music.

”

Powwow music, bird singing, native hip-hop, native rock and other genres. Aquallo spoke of the different instruments used by Native Americans including drums, rattles, shakers, rasps and flutes, along with explaining the role of whistles and screams in the music. He described how Native Americans use symbolism in their music. An example is the drumbeat, which reflects a heartbeat. “This is a wake-up call to the importance and meaning of TURN TO MUSIC PAGE 3

Archaeology lab offers hands-on learning ROBERT HERMELING FOR THE TELESCOPE

Spring Fest is in the air

PAT CUBEL | THE TELESCOPE

Marco Martinez dresses up and joins in the festivities at Spring Fest last week.

ROBIN WITT THE TELESCOPE

Sunshine and live music made some students dance in the quad at the western-themed Springfest April 28 and 29. Springfest is one of many events sponsored by the Associated Student Government with help from the Office of Student Affairs. According to Melissa Talwar, activity director for the Office of Student Affairs, students had been asking for live music for a while so she wanted to provide it at some of the campus events.Talwar said the

Rules of the road PAGE 5

OPINION

response to both bands, the James Douglas Show and Jasmine Commerce, was very positive. KKSM helped with the concerts and promoted Palomar College’s radio station. Station Manager Zeb Navarro said he wanted students to know that a “real radio station” exists on campus meaning it is licensed by the Federal Communications Commission. Many campus clubs offered food and carnival-style games in an effort to raise money and awareTURN TO SPRING

FEST PAGE 3

Anyone stopping into this semester’s archaeological lab analysis class (ANTH 215) at Palomar College would most likely mistake it for an arts and crafts class. And for good reason. This semester the archaeology class is concentrating on artifact making and identification, an important part of any archaeology curriculum. The department tries to rotate between practical learning classes, field surveying and actual excavations, giving the students a complete and wellrounded experience in the field of archaeology, said Jim Eighmey, assistant professor of the archaeology department. Last semester, the department had two crews in the field. One worked the Sikes Adobe historic site at Lake Hodges while the other excavated the Luiseno Indian site in San Marcos. While working the Sikes Adobe site, student Dean Kaufman found a couple Indianhead pennies and a rare, abalone shell button. Instead of merely lecturing, Eighmey said he has his students involved in a hands-on method of learning. The students make artifacts from scratch, without any modern tools.This helps them learn to identify the processes used by ancient Luiseno Indians. “The classes are set up to give the students practical field experiences to be better able to identify certain artifacts when seen in the field,” Eighmey said. With folk music playing for ambiance, the students spend their Friday afternoons studying and crafting different artifacts. In one lab session, the students made atlatls, which are instruments used by the native Indians for launching spears. The lab included flaking, or flint napping, the spearheads out of obsidian and sanding the wooden atlatls with stones. After the class, the students went out to a field and launched their spears using the atlatls. “This is the most interesting class I’ve ever taken,” said student Marty Jorgensen, “because we’re actually doing it.” He added that what is important is learning what each artifact was used for. Recently, the students picked through owl pellets

ENTERTAINMENT

Every wife’s nightmare PAGE 8

SARA BURBIDGE | THE TELESCOPE

Student Danny Marrow participates in a Floral Analysis lab by separating seeds from dirt so he can identify which continent the seeds came from. to identify the remains of animals that the owls fed on.Then they sifted through chicken and fish bones, separating them to figure out the actual count of each. This line of study is important to archaeology because it can show the subsistence patterns of ancient people. It also gives clues to environmental changes of animals according to its habitats. In another lab, the students studied manos and metates, which are ancient grinding implements

TURN TO ARCHAEOLOGY PAGE 3

SPORTS

Comets: Conference champs PAGE 11

2 | CAMPUS BEAT

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009

CAMPUS CALENDAR

Geology students heading to Big Sur

Palomar College’s Geology and Environmental Studies department is offering a field study course Geog/ES195 from May 27 to May 30. This one-unit field course gives students the opportunity to study firsthand the geology of Central California its landforms, biogeography and climate. Students will explore the Big Sur Coast, seeing California’s most dramatic coastlines and the wildlife that inhabit the area.They will then travel inland to the Arroyo Seco River and the Pinnacles National Monument, with its amazing landforms and other evidence of the San Andreas Fault. According to the Palomar Web site, the trip will be roughly 950 miles and include three nights of camping in California’s San Simeon State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Arroyo Seco Campground. “Our starting point is 345 miles away from the Palomar campus,” said Dough Key, who is a professor in the geology department at Palomar College.“The starting point for the trip is Washburn campground in the San Simeon State Park and takes about six to eight hours to get there depending on traffic.” For more information e-mail Professor Key at dkey@palomar.edu or call (760) 744-1150, ext. 2515 or contact Professor Patty Dean at pdean@palomar.edu or phone ext. 2519.

Monday, May 4 FREE HIV TESTING Palomar students can get a free HIV test done at Health Services from noon to 4 p.m. To schedule an appointment call (760) 744-1150, ext. 2380.

Tuesday, May 5 CINCO DE MAYO Student Affairs is hosting a celebration in honor of Mexico’s national holiday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Union quad.

FILM SERIES “Wool 100%,” made in Japan in 2006, is this week’s featured film. In it, Director Mai Tominaga uses puppets, animation and live actors to tell a modern fairy tale. While in Japanese, it is subtitled. The showing will begin at 6:30 p.m. in room P-32.

Wednesday, May 6

Ceremony to honor transfer students An event to recognize students who will transfer to four-year schools will be held May 13 between 5-7 p.m. Transfer Center Director Karan Huskey said students will have their names called and will be given a certificate. Palomar’s Transfer Center will host the event, which includes a catered meal and live entertainment, at the San Marcos Civic Center. Friends and family are welcome to attend. College President Robert Deegan will attend, along with faculty members and staff. Mary Cassoni,business administration faculty member will speak, as well as a student who will be transferring to UCLA. The event called, the Transfer Recognition Celebration, was created because all students do not choose to earn their associate’s degree or a certificate before being eligible to transfer to a four-year school. They are not allowed to walk at graduation. All students who have or will be transferring in 2009 are invited to attend, said Counseling Services Specialist, Lisa Galbreath. For more information contact the Transfer Center (760) 744-1150, ext. 2552.

Free skin cancer screenings offered May is National Skin Screening Month and Palomar College Health Services is offering skin screening exams through the month of May at the San Marcos and Escondido campuses. The exams are free to students who have paid the $17 student health fee, and cost $15 for employees of Palomar College. The exam is conducted by a physician or nurse practitioner. Patients can choose to have an all over body exam, or have specific areas of concern checked. The exam takes about 15 minutes. If further treatment is necessary, a referral to a dermatologist will be made. In addition to the exam,patients are educated by the physician about proper skin care, and the risks and types of skin cancer. After the exam, patients leave with educational materials on skin care and skin cancer, as well as skin care samples.

CAMPUS WEATHER Monday, May 4

CAMPUS EXPLORATIONS

Shopping ‘green’

RON WAY|THE TELESCOPE

Palomar student Jackie Carr-Clarke browses a homemade jewelry stand at the Student Affairs’ Earth Day event on April 22, which hosted environmentally-friendly vendors. Free packets of sun screen are available anytime at Health Services to ensure that everyone on campus has proper sun protection. An appointment is necessary for the skin screening exam and can be made by calling Health Services at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2380 for the San Marcos campus, or ext. 8105 for the Escondido campus.

EOP&S program holds registration The Extended Opportunity Programs and Services is currently holding fall registration through the end of semester. EOP&S students are generally known as full-time students, those with low income,and those students who are educationally disadvantaged. Other factors are students who are first generation college students, re-entry, students with disabilities, ethnic minorities and students whose first language is not English. The EOP&S gives out a variety of vouchers, certificates and provides a number of services. Some of these services include: book vouchers, counseling, priority registration, parking permits, tutoring, emergency food staples, student success workshops and graduation caps and gowns. Additional support includes social activities, referral and bilingual services, child care referrals, EOP&S club and registration assistance. In order to qualify for EOP&S students must 1) be a California resident 2) have completed less than 70 degree applicable college units 3) be a full-time student and 4) qualify for the Board of Governor’s enrollment Fee Waiver Method. In addition, the student must meet one of the following criteria as well: lack a high school diploma, have a high school GPA of 2.5 or less, be previously enrolled in remedial education,

Tuesday, May 5

be a first-generation college student, have parents who are not native English speakers, or, after taking the placement test, be recommended to either English 10 or 50, Math 10, 15, or 50, or Reading 30 or 50 or ESL. For more information visit the Web site palomar.edu/eops or call 760-744-1150, ext. 2449.

Local news leaders to speak at college On May 5 the Communications department will host “Media Studies Day: ‘Exploring the Future’” from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Palomar College. The event features local media professionals discussing the future of news in San Diego. “Our department wanted to host this event to introduce our students to experts working in the industry,” communications professor Wendy Nelson said. “Hopefully, our students will have an opportunity to learn first hand what it is like to work in the news business.” Palomar’s radio station, KKSM, will broadcast from the student center as part of the event. Print journalism and television broadcast professionals will be speaking throughout the day. Steven Cohen, news director of KUSI, will speak from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in room Pew. David York, senior editor/visuals from the San Diego Union-Tribune,will speak from 11 a.m. to noon. At 12:30 p.m., North County Times Editor in Chief Times Kent Davy will speak in room MB10. From 1:30 p.m.to 2:30 p.m.Eric Yates,deputy managing editor of the San Diego News Network will speak in SSC-1. The final speaker, which is TBA, will present from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in SSC-1. For more information, contact Wendy Nelson at wnelson@palomar.edu.

The semester wrap-up “Language Death: Threat of Extinction of our World Languages” by Marty Furch, a Palomar ESL faculty, will be presented from 2 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. in room P-32. For more information on Campus Explorations visit www.palomar.edu/campusexplorations, or contact Linda Morrow at (760) 744-1150, ext. 2617.

Thursday, May 7 CONCERT HOUR Spectrum Jazz Singers, a Palomar sensation, will deliver ensemble and solo selections. Directed by Janet Hammer, the concert is an hour in length and begins at 12:30 p.m. in Performance Lab D-10.

PALOMAR WOMEN’S CHORUS The Palomar Women’s Chorus will perform folk songs along with contemporary selections from musicals such as South Pacific, Mamma Mia and Chicago. Directed Karen Bryan, the theme is “Ladies in Love.” The show is at 8 p.m. in Performance Lab D-10. Tickets are $5 per person for open seating, and can be purchased online at www.palomarperforms.com or by calling (760) 744-1150, ext, 2453.

Friday, May 8 FACULTY DANCE CONCERT Palomar dance faculty will perform a live dance extravaganza in a variety of styles. Directed by Patriceann Mead, it will take place at 8 p.m. in the Howard Brubeck Theatre. General admission is $12, seniors and staff are $10 and students can see the show for $8.

ASG ELECTIONS MAY 4-8, VOTE AT PALOMAR.EDU CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT: •

Andrew Bissell

• Claudia Duran

CANDIDATES FOR VICE PRES.: • Ji-Hye

Ann Hong • Bobby Shuster • Ed Solis

Wednesday, May 6

Thursday, May 7

Friday, May 8

Saturday, May 9

Sunday, May 10

76˚/53˚

74˚/51˚

79˚/54˚

77˚/54˚

75˚/54˚

74˚/52˚

PARTLY SUNNY

SUNNY

| OPINION

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY MAY 4, 2009

OUR VIEWPOINT

Textbook costs too high, updates too common As students get close to the end of the semester, many get excited to sell their books back, not only because it means that they are finally done with the course, but also to get a little cash back from the small fortune they spent on the books. However, more often than not, the student is sorely disappointed when they realize they are getting back only a small percentage of what they paid for books they, to be honest, probably didn’t even read. Every year the textbooks seem to get a little more expensive, and the cost is a little harder to bear. There are several factors that lead to the high price of textbooks. First, the bookstore has a great deal when it comes to buy backs. They sell the book for full price, making a handsome sum off of it, and then they buy it back for a fraction of the cost and resell it for two or three times what they bought it back for. Thus they are able to make a huge profit off of each book. Another factor that drives up costs is the professors using the books. As they do not have to foot the bill for the books, professors rarely, if ever, take cost into consideration when picking their books. Also, professors constantly require the latest edition of the textbook when one edition older is almost exactly the same and costs significantly less. No matter why textbooks cost as much as they do, they have reach a price that is ridiculous for any college student to be expected to afford. However, there are several things students can do to help bring the cost of textbooks down. Probably the easiest step is simply to talk to professors. Many instructors are unaware of just how much the price of textbooks affects students. If they are made more aware of the financial hardships that are brought on by textbooks, especially new versions, they may be more willing and able to help students out. Students should also express their concerns on the cost of textbooks to Palomar College President Robert Deegan. He can be reached at (760)7441140, ext. 2106 or you can send him an e-mail at rdeegan@palomar.edu. Until the textbook problem is fixed, students are forced to find alternative places to buy their textbooks. Half.com, Amazon, Craigslist and other Web sites are a good alternative to find textbooks at cheaper prices. Students should also ask their professors if they can use an older version of the textbook to save money.

MONDAY MAY 4, 2009

JOSEPH BONNET | THE TELESCOPE

Voters need to vote: MAGGIE AVANTS THE TELESCOPE

After a highly publicized 2008 presidential campaign, the number of Americans who actually turned out to vote was barely more than 61 percent of eligible voters. That’s only 1 percent above the 2004 turnout, according to a report released by American University’s Center for the Study of the American Electorate. Exit polls also showed that the percentage of Republican voters decreased while the Democratic percentage went up. If you don’t vote, don’t whine about the outcome. Now with the statewide special election scheduled for May 19, the question looms: Do the voters care enough to vote? No one seems overly enamored with the state budget deficit at this time, but when it comes time for voting and having a say in how the legislators can dig us out of this hole, will anyone show up? This is a crucial time in our state. Never before have we seen a deficit this big. There are six propositions on the ballot that could make or break the current financial situation. Proposition 1A, if passed, will limit state spending and increase our “rainy day” savings fund from five percent of the General Fund to 12.5 percent. Proposition 1B, which should be of particular interest to com-

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR

VOLUME 63 NUMBER 21

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.

With turnout for elections down, voters have no right to complain

munity college students, would require supplemental funding to local school systems and community colleges in light of the recent budget cuts. Proposition 1C is pushing for increased marketing of the state lottery, which would in turn raise state revenue. Propositions 1D and 1E deal with reallocating funding for early childhood development and mental health services, in order to alleviate the impact of the programs on the state budget. These programs will not disappear, but will simply be receiving funding from other areas such as tobacco taxes. Proposition F will eliminate pay increases for elected officials during budget deficit years. Just as an employee gets a pay raise based on merit, so should elected officials. If they are not doing their job in balancing our state budget, a pay raise is not in order. With so much at stake for the state, it is hard to fathom what

POLLING PALOMAR

excuses one could have not to vote. Some prefer not to vote in presidential elections because they feel the Electoral College decides the outcome, not the voters. Others have no trust for politicians. Even so, what could it hurt? In this election, California voters will have the opportunity to help ease the burden of the state budget, regardless of how they have felt about voting in the past. Despite hopes of a record voter turnout in the recent presidential election, 40 percent of registered voters still stayed away from the polls. Voting is your right and your duty as an American citizen, a Californian and a taxpayer. Find out more about the upcoming statewide special election and register to vote at the Secretary of State’s Web site www.sos.ca.gov. The voter registration deadline is May 4 for the May 19 election.

Do you think teachers should update texbooks annually? • • • •

Yes, it’s helpful and keeps information up-to-date No, the books rarely change very much It’s nice, but too expensive I don’t care either way

To participate in polls, go to www.the-telescope.com.

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

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS | PAT CUBEL, CIARA KEITH

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

ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS

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CFAC CALIFORNIA FIRST AMENDMENT COALITION

JOURNALISM ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY COLLEGES

| ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S HAPPENING Tuesday, May 5

Who: Sammy Hagar What: Rock Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $60-85 More info: (619) 299-BLUE

Tuesday, May 5 Who: The Devastators and Dub Traffik Control What: Roots/ Reggae, Funk/ Dub Where: Belly-Up Cost: $8-10 More info: www.bellyup.com

Tuesday, May 5 Who: Manic Hispanic w/ Youth Brigade, and Vick and the Vengents What: Punk/ Rock/ Alternative Where: House of Blues Anaheim Cost: $17 More info: (714) 778-BLUE

Friday, May 8 Who: Black-Eyed Peas w/ All American Rejects and Flo Rida What: Hip-Hop, Rock/ Power Pop/ Rap Where: Cricket Wireless Amphitheater Cost: $20.25 More info: (619) 671-3600

‘Obsessed’ provides lackluster thrill BRIDGET ASKELSON THE TELESCOPE

A tale of every wife’s nightmare, complete with sex, alcohol, betrayal and madness, ‘Obsessed’ delivers an enjoyable thrill but includes every possible cliché and falls short of the impact of the similar movie ‘Fatal Attraction.’ “Obsessed,” starring Beyonce Knowles, Ali Larter and Idris Elba, is directed by Steve Shill and opened April 24. With frustrating scenes and moments to make the audience gasp, the film is never short of classic thriller pitfalls and plot lines. The story involves a young couple, Derek (Elba) and Sharon (Knowles) who move into a new house with their toddler son. Derek is vice-president of a high power investment firm and Sharon was his old assistant. They have a loving marriage, a comfortable lifestyle and the type of honesty that most couples work toward. It changed the day Lisa (Larter) the temp entered their lives. Lisa and Derek share a few looks, smiles and laughs MOVIE REVIEW at the office ‘Obsessed’ resulting in a whirlwind HH OUT OF FOUR STARS obsession that Derek could have STARRING: Beyonce never imag- Knowles, Ali Larter, Idris Elba i n e d . RATED: PG-13 Meanwhile his wife Sharon is left in the dark. Idris Elba delivers a confident and secure performance, as does the successful Derek, pushing him toward a dominant position in Hollywood. Most recently

Saturday, May 9 Who: OK GO w/ IO Echo and Jaguar Love What: Rock Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $15-1750 More info: (619) 299-BLUE

Saturday, May 9 Who: Iration What: Reggae/ Rock / Dub Where: House of Blues San Diego Cost: $$12.50-15 More info: (619) 299-BLUE

COURTESY PHOTO

Idris Elba (left) and Ali Larter (right) star in the thriller “Obsessed.” Larter plays a temp who forms a dangerous crush on her boss, Elba. known for his role as the tough new boss with a heartbreaker exterior on ‘The Office,’ Elba shows he can conquer the big screen as well as the small. Ali Larter is successful at convincing the audience that she possesses crazy and controlling tendencies behind her beautiful exterior. She shows emotion, a confident sexuality and a vulnerability that causes men to lower their guards. The role of Sharon has the potential to be an emotional and turbulent character, but lifeless writing drained the role and Knowles had little to add. While delivering her ‘major’ scene

Earth Day celebration connects to students BRIDGET ASKELSON THE TELESCOPE

Friday, May 8 Who: Get Back Loretta w/ Scarlet Symphony, Bedford Grove, Goodnight Caulfield and The New Archaic What: Rock / Indie/ Soul Where: Soma Cost: $9 More info: www.somasd.com

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009

With environmental issues and “go-green” messages on the rise, Earth Day’s spirit seemed at an alltime high this year. On April 22, Earth Day celebrations were held all over San Diego and at Palomar College. Palomar’s radio station KKSM, the associated student government and the honor society Phi Theta Kappa created a fair-like atmosphere to educate students on ways to help the environment. The day-long event, held in the Student Union, was created through help from Palomar’s clubs and county-wide companies. Mecha, Palomar Pre Med Club, Encuentros Leadership and the bookstore were amongst the Palomar organizations that participated in the celebration. Recycling bins, diagrams and helpful programs were brought by county-wide companies and associations who showed their support. Mission Federal Credit Union, San Diego County’s Department of Environmental Health, Saturn, Apple and a variety of recycling agencies were present. The atmosphere allowed students to enjoy themselves with live music and retailers selling clothing and accessories, but kept the real message behind the event appar-

with vivaciousness and emotional connection, the rest of her performance remains forgettable. Her few intense lines left the audience snickering rather than connected. Although the film brings enough thrill and drama to enjoy oneself on a Friday night, there is no grit or soul within the plot. Filled with every terrible movie cliché, the well-known story of the attractive female secretary and a crazed girl-ongirl fight, there are no secrets to what would happen next. Quotes which appear to be used to increase tension, such as, “You think you’re crazy? I’ll

ent through educational booths. “We wanted to educate students and bring awareness to what Earth Day really means,” said Todd James, a member of the KKSM radio station. He added that they were lucky when one of their disc jockeys was able to book the Max Carpinelli Quartet to play at the event. James said that the band helps make the event light-hearted while still allowing the information to be available. Students both on their way to or leaving class stopped by the event to listen to the music, talk to the organizations and drop their soda cans into the recycling bins. Alex Rojas, a student who is taking classes at Palomar through Escondido Charter High School, said that the music fit the event great. “They have a really easy going and relaxing vibe which is perfect for Earth Day,” he said, adding that he was impressed by how many people were legitimately interested in the different booths and what the organizations had to say. When asked what he does to help the environment he said, “I ride the Sprinter to school.” Whether peering under the hood of the new eco-friendly Saturn, enjoying the free food, bobbing their heads to the music or learning something new, the event had all students smiling.

show you crazy, bitch” brought more laughter than anticipation. With the expectations of a thriller that would have one gripping their seat and dropping their tub of popcorn, the film possessed merely a couple hair-raising moments. of Although strong moments are scattered within the film, dull stillness fill the void. Thankfully with a cast of growing stars, like Elba and Larter, and a major pop icon, Beyonce, the film will be appreciated by some. The pure fan base and intense trailer is sure to bring crowds.

ENTERTAINMENT | 9

MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

The Audition hope to make it big with new album ALEJANDRA JACKSON THE TELESCOPE

Fresh off a less than successful tour in support of Kevin Rudolf, Chicago rockers The Audition, aren’t letting the recent failure keep them down. With a string of UK tour dates lined up with Medina Lake and the release of what front man Danny Stevens calls their best album to date, the band is looking to make the most out of the rest of 2009. Shortly after dropping off Rudolf’s “Let It Rock” tour, a tour marked with lackluster attendance, Stevens sat down for a phone interview to talk about the new record, the Chicago connection, Mick Jagger, and waiting for the next “big break.” The genesis of The Audition is similar to many other bands on the scene today. Born in the Chicago suburbs, the band was the brainchild of drummer Ryan O’Connor and bassist Joe Lussa. They later rounded out the band with Seth Johnson and Timmy Klepek on guitar. Meanwhile Stevens was in Detroit at the helm of another band. His path would first cross with O’Conner and Lussa when his band played several shows with them. They would cross again when a month after being signed to Victory Records, The Audition lost it’s lead singer. In the search for a new singer, Stevens name came up. After a call from O’Conner and a trip to Chicago to audition, Stevens had cemented his place in the band. On the band’s third studio album, “SelfTitled Album” which came out April 28, Stevens said the band is the best it has ever been. “I just want people to hear it. We finally all know what we want and how to say it” Stevens said. From the lyrics to the music itself, he is excited for people to hear the record.This excitement is also what led to the decision not to go with a flashier title for the album. The members did not want people to have preconceived notions about the band or the album. The Audition’s sound, a mix of pop, punk and dance rock, is a product of the music the band members like listening to.

COURTESY PHOTO

Seth Johnson (from left), Danny Stevens, Joe Lussa and Timmy Klepek make up the band, The Audition. Their new album “Self-Titled Album” came out on April 28 on Victory Records.

“Our record is a portrait of what we are listening to at the time,” said Stevens who is a fan of hip-hop, Motown and Jason Mraz. Their sound also stems from that they saw as a void in the music industry. When they first hit the scene in 2003, Stevens said that there weren’t many other bands out there making that kind of music and they knew that was the kind of music they wanted to hear. With an obvious penchant for synthesizers and electro-pop it’s hard not to draw parallels to similar acts like Cobra Starship but Stevens insisted he’s never heard the comparison. Instead his on-stage bravado and unmistakable swagger have lent themselves to

“

comparisons to musical icon, Mick Jagger, seemed very natural and, as a result, so one he is proud to have. did their success. He hopes that “SelfIn recent years, Chicago has been the Titled Album” will catapult them into the breeding ground same level. No matter who for some of the “No matter who you biggest alternative are, even if you are acts of recent mem- you are, even if you U2…you are always waitory like The are U2... you are ing for that break,” Academy Is… and Stevens said. Fall Out Boy, bands always wait As for the band’s that were the onefuture, in addition to time tour mates of their tour with Median The Audition. Lake, they will then be — Danny Stevens touring in support of Although their The Audition lead singer Forever The Sickest Kids success hasn’t been on the same level and then they will be of their peers, Stevens said that coming back in the United States looking for a up in the industry with these bands summer tour.

”

ing for that break.

10 | DIVERSIONS

THE TELESCOPE | MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009

Horoscopes By Linda C. Black

Aries (March 21-April 19) Luckily, you're an avid reader. You devour the newspapers and magazines and other things to which you subscribe. This is an excellent habit, and it's producing results now.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Your persistence and good advice pay off, as you get a tidy bonus. This could be winnings from a competition or cashing in a coupon. Every little bit counts. Celebrate.

May 4 - May 10

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You and your sweetheart need to get away for a little while. Can you afford a vacation? If so, get outa here. If not, have a nice dinner out at a great foreign restaurant? Or have it delivered.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) The money is available for domestic improvements now.This could include a marvelous deal on real estate. Keep watching for those, of course. Meanwhile, fix up what you have.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) FOR RELEASE MAY 3, 2009

THE TV CROSSWORD by Jacqueline E. Mathews

You've had a difficult couple of days, but you emerge triumphant. New opportunities are opening up, because of your willingness to keep your word even when it's not fun. That's very important.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

Sagittarius (Nov.22-Dec.21) Creative ideas are encouraged now, and you should be full of them. Don't be discouraged if some don't work out; that's to be expected. Don't run away; your input is very important to others.

Capricorn (Dec.22-Jan.19)

Something in your stack of stuff You can buy, trade or sell and is just about coming due. You'd come up with a profit. It doesn't better go through those papers happen every time, but often one more time.You abhor getting enough to keep you afloat. Never penalties and fees for being late. worry about that; you have natural talent.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

There are certain things you need to do to make sure the money comes in. Do that, but then you can accept a wonderful invitation. If you don't follow these priorities, there could be trouble.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) 1 5 8 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 20 21 22 25 28 31 33 34 35 36 38 39 41 43

ACROSS Role on “Brothers & Sisters” Bernie, for one Harris and O’Neill Diminish gradually Guadalajara gold Tom Hanks’ age __ Ryan “Little Women” author’s initials “Land’s __” (1995-96) “Desperate Housewives” role “__ Spies” (2002-04) Go quickly 1995-2005 crime drama series “__-12” (1968-75) QR forerunners “Jane __”; ’96 Anna Paquin film FBI crime lab evidence Pierce “__ John” (1988-92) “The Longest __”; 1974 Burt Reynolds movie Units of time: abbr. Prefix for taste or trust “Viva ___ Vegas” Role on “NCIS” Solution to Last Week’s Puzzle

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 18 19 22 23 24 26 27 29 30 32 37 40 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49

__ Thompson Bob Hope’s age at death Green fruits “Dog __ Dog” (2002-03) Slip up “Let’s Make __” “Day __” (1993-95) “__ It Now” (1951-58) Mail DOWN __ a one; none “__ House” (1989-90) Actor Auberjonois and others “Queen of Soul” “The __”; reality series since ’01 “Brothers in __”; 2005 David Carradine movie 1989-97 series set at a school “__ Hour” Pet for the Flintstones Caesar, for one “’__ Death” “The Famous __ Z” (1989-90) Goals Role on “The West Wing” Certain vote “The __”; ’67 Dustin Hoffman film Santa __, CA Actress Gibbs Boatman’s item Network for “Bill Moyers Journal” Mr. Close Most-watched series of the 1983-84 season “Dark __” (1996-97) Piece of playground equipment Martin, for one Times past “Hit Me, Baby, One __ Time” 1986-91 series for Clifton Davis “__ It and Weep”; ’06 TV movie High-speed Internet letters “George & __” (1997-98)

Here come a lot of new assignments. Some of them are quite interesting. Some are confusing. Make sure you get the deals in writing before you start doing the work.

Aquarius (Jan.20-Feb.18) You know somebody who understands what's in your heart. Take comfort in discussing your hopes and dreams. You don't need criticism now. Seek out support and agreement.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) You have what you need to make home improvements, if you can find it. You've been carefully saving for such an occasion. Don't worry, you put it in a safe place, right?

COMET SPORTS | 11

MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

SPORTS Palomar drops Jaguars 4-2,win conference crown ON DECK

Monday, May 4 MEN’S GOLF So Cal Championships 7:00 a.m. at Marshallia Ranch

Tuesday, May 5 BASEBALL Regional Play In Game TBD

Thursday, May 7 MEN’S TENNIS State Dual Team Championship Final 2 p.m. American River

WOMEN’S TENNIS State Dual Team Championship Final 2 p.m. American River

Friday, May 8 BASEBALL Regional Playoffs, Best two of three TBD

Saturday, May 9 BASEBALL Regional Playoffs, Best two of three TBD

MEN’S AND WOMEN'S TENNIS State Tournament at American RiverTBD

For updated Comet scores, go to www.the-telescope.com.

JARRED POWELL THE TELESCOPE

The No. 1 ranked Palomar baseball team won the second part of a home series with the visiting Southwestern Jaguars 4-2 to become the undisputed Pacific Coast Conference baseball champions. For the Comets, it’s their seventh conference championship in the last 12 years. The Comets were led by the pitching of Matt Strom. He pitched six innings, struck out four and gave up one earned run. “Matt was on his game today,” head coach Buck Taylor said. “He had command and great control of his pitches and gave us what we needed to win.” With the win, the Comets improved to 32-9-1 overall and 19-4 in conference while Southwestern drops to 22-12-1 and 13-10 in conference play. The win was significant for Palomar because it comes in the middle of a stretch for the Comets. The Comets play a home and home series against Grossmont to end the regular season. The loss is a tough one for Southwestern. They had just beaten the Comets a day earlier. The Jaguars, last year’s runner up in the state tournament, started the year ranked high in southern California. They still have a chance at reaching the playoffs as the third team from the conference. Palomar will make the playoffs by virtue of winning the conference and Grossmont looks top make it as an at-large team. This is Taylor’s second Pacific Coast Championship. His first came in 2006. “This feels great and I’m just so proud of these guys,” Taylor said.

KELLEY FOYT| THE TELESCOPE

Palomar's Victor Martinez connects during the Comets’ 4-2 win over the Southwestern Jaguars at Myers Field April 25. With the win, the Comets assured themselves of the outright Pacific Coast Conference title. “We worked these guys hard and they battled and they hung in there and they got what they deserved today.” Comets played The

Grossmont last tuesday and lost 6-3 to end the regular season at 32-10-1 and 19-5 in conference. They will get home field throughout the playoffs,

but it’s doubtful that they will be the number one overall seed after a 6-3 loss to Grossmont April 28. The Comets still awaiting to get seeded.

From Palomar to Petco: Nick Vincent on his way KARA VERMEULEN THE TELESCOPE

When Nick Vincent came to Palomar College he wasn’t planning on playing baseball. His friend had an offer to play for the team so he decided to try out. That decision shaped the next four years of his life, and led to the San Diego Padres selecting him in the 18th round of the 2008 firstyear player draft. A 2004 graduate from Ramona High School, Vincent came to the team without any expectations. Palomar College head baseball coach, Buck Taylor, said they thought Vincent was the lesser of the two pitchers who came in that year. The transition from high school to college brought a whole new level of play, but Vincent’s hard work has paid off. “I started working out and was able to gain 3 to 4 miles per hour on my fastball,” Vincent said. His coaches noticed also. “Before Christmas break Nick was throwing 83-84, but he came back throwing 87-88,” Taylor said. Taylor credits Vincent with having good command of his pitches and always giving the team a great opportunity to win. Vincent finished his career at Palomar second all time in wins and strikeouts, and third in ERA. After pitching in the junior college allstar game,Vincent had over 20 offers from colleges. He decided to go to CSU Long Beach, where he served as a reliever. In his one season with the CSU Long Beach,Vincent posted a 1.76 ERA and a 4-

0 record. He was moving out his apartment when he heard his name had been called by his hometown Padres in this year’s draft. Only a junior,Vincent had one year of eligibility left, but after negotiating his contract and signing bonus, he decided to begin his career. “This gave me the opportunity to make some money and pay for school,” Vincent said. “It’s going to take hard work at any level, so I figured I might as well see what I can do now.” Vincent spent the summer at the Padres’ single A affiliate in Eugene, Ore. and had a spot in the starting rotation with the Padres triple A team in Portland. Taylor said he believes Vincent will be successful as a Padres prospect. “Nick is a competitor,”Taylor said. “He knows what it takes, and doesn’t give in.” His versatility is also his strength as a pitcher. Vincent has had success as a starter and reliever, so the Padres will have options in finding a role that suits him and the organization. Vincent was assigned to single A Lake Elsinore upon the closing of spring training. In his first three relief appearances Vincent tossed scoreless innings and has a 4.22 ERA on the season. Life in the minor leagues is filled with long hours on a bus and low salaries, but Vincent welcomes the opportunity. For him, the biggest transition has been getting used to playing every day. Even though Lake Elsinore is farther Petco Park than Palomar College, Vincent is one step closer to being a Padres major league pitcher.

12 | COMET SPORTS

MONDAY, MAY 4, 2009 | THE TELESCOPE

ROB BACON| THE TELESCOPE Amanda Avila hits a double against Southwestern at Palomar campus on April 17. Palomar won 8-3 to wrap up an undisputed Pacific Coast Conference championship. The Comets opened the regional playoffs May 2 versus Riverside.

Comets battle back and win title 8-3 over Jaguars JARRED POWELL THE TELESCOPE

Palomar and Southwestern played a game of the hare and the tortoise. Southwestern was the hare and jumped out to an early lead. Palomar was the tortoise and scored six unanswered runs in the six inning after a slow start to beat the visiting Jaguars 8-3. “It’s inevitable to have a letdown after the big win we had last week,” head coach Mark Eldridge said of the slow start. That big win was against Grossmont last week.The Comets

won 8-5 and secured at least a tie for first in conference. “We got a lot of pats on the back because it was such a big win and it affected us today,” Hutchinson said. Palomar becomes the outright Pacific Coast Conference softball champion. It’s the 23rd title the Comets have won or tied in the last 24 years. “This was a redemption year, “ pitcher Alex Hutchinson said. “We weren’t sure how it was going to turn out and we finally turned around as a team and kicked butt.” The Comets got off to a slow

start. Chelsea Blackman, who usually comes in to relieve Alex Hutchinson, started the game. Southwestern struck first with a two-run homer in the first inning for a 2-1 lead. Things got a bit out of hand and Palomar was unable to score and left runners in scoring position. “I was never worried,” Hutchinson said. “We never believe that we’re out of a game.” The Comets didn’t panic, but seemed to be a little nervous. “With our backs to the wall, we responded like a championship team,” Eldridge said.

Things turned around for the Comets in the fourth inning. Amanda Avila got on base with a double. She later scored on an RBI fly out by Melissa Elliot to bring the Comets within one run of Southwestern. Hutchinson began to warm up in the bullpen. Hutchinson came in and pitched Southwestern to a standstill, the Palomar bats suddenly started to make contact with the ball. At the start of the sixth inning, Kristen Dahl and Andrea Nedden doubled. Melissa Elliot singled in a run that brought the Comets

even with Southwestern 3-3. The Comet bench had new life and Hutchinson could be heard saying, “ that’s all I needed.” Indeed, the team went on and scored six runs to win the game 83 and win the conference title outright. The Comets next step is the playoffs, which start this month. Palomar is 6-12 versus opponents out of conference and losers of their last three. Something that isn’t good when your about to enter the playoffs. The Comets end the regular season 21-17 overall and 13-2 in conference.