The Connection Vol. 56 Issue 2 09/30/2010

Native American’s celebrate culture at the state Capitol

Men’s soccer struggles in a 2-0 loss

>> FEATURES, page 6

Is the Tea Party creating a rift?

>>SPORTS, page 4

>>OPINION, page 3

The Connection The student voice of Cosumnes River College since 1970

Volume 59, Issue 2

www.crcconnection.com

September 30, 2010

Voter turnout increases for student senate elections Demitri Fellines Connection Staff Sounds of music and chatter over a sound system were heard throughout the quad on Sept. 22 and 23, as the Associated Student Government elections began.

In an event that has struggled the past 15 years to reach 500 student voters, exactly 506 students at the Cosumnes River College campus came out and showed their support by voting for the candidates running for the open positions in ASG. “I feel like it is a great opportunity to allow those who want to represent us as a whole to get that chance,” said Jose Palacios, an 18-year-old fire technology major. “It is good experience for everyone here to see that they have a voice and should take the initiative to use it.”

Each candidate was given a chance to show the students why they would best suit the position they were running for in the speeches they gave on Sept. 21.

During the candidates’ Statements of Intent, they attempted to appeal to students by explaining their previous qualifications and background in their particular position, as well as impart their intent to better the educational experience of all students.

“I am a Political Science major which means politics and laws are my field of knowledge,” said Commissioner of Legislative Affairs candidate Ryan Lockwood. “I have been involved with state legislature and lobbying for the better part of three years.”

Each candidate ran unopposed.

The final results were as follows: Amanda Saelee >> ASG, page 8

Mikha Collins | The Connection

Students crowd around the Associated Student Government voting booth on Sept. 22 to cast their vote for the student senate elections, which had its largest voter turnout in 15 years.

State election overlooked by students

Financial aid system gets makeover

Alycia Lourim Connection Staff

Mikha Collins Connection Staff

Many students at Cosumnes River College delay their thoughts on voting in the upcoming gubernatorial election in November, waiting to inform themselves after the candidates have revealed their stance on issues.

In 19 interviews at CRC, 10 out of the 19 said they did not know who was running for governor, nor did they care to vote or be informed, whereas others said they don’t feel pressured to research the candidates until the last minute.

“Politicians switch around their views so much, it’s better to hold off till the end since they usually flip-flop,” said Reed Szymanski, a 23-year-old biological science major.

Dino Vajraca, a 19-year-old engineering major, said he is torn on whether or not to vote. He said he doesn’t want to be biased since he doesn’t know anything about the candidates and would rather know both sides. After being interviewed, he said it had given him motivation to be informed.

“I think it’s important to represent the society you are in,” Vajraca said. “People complain but they aren’t doing anything about it if they aren’t voting.

Other students said the campaigns of the candidates have affected their vote. Both Tyler Crump, a 21-year-old undecided major, and Jordan Adams, a 20year-old business major, said they usually vote republican, but do not like how Meg

“Welcome to the power of choice!”

Students may recognize this statement from the black and green flyers that have been mailed out in the last few weeks.

This semester Cosumnes River College is offering financial aid students the option to have their awards put on a student debit card instead of waiting for checks.

This new system is called the Los Rios Community College District, or LRCCD, OneCard, and it will be available to students in October. The purpose of the card is to make receiving funds quicker and less of a hassle.

The district has taken steps towards providing a solution to the delays the district has had in the past concerning financial aid.

“A questionnaire was sent out to financial aid students last year,” said Alice Kwang, the Financial Aid Supervisor for CRC. “60 percent of the students said they wanted direct deposit.”

In response, the school partnered with Higher One, a company that provides enhanced distribution and management services to colleges. Students will now have the option to continue receiving paper checks, set up direct deposit into an existing account or activate a OneAccount.

“It’s like a regular checking account, but no credit check is required,” Kwang said. Once the card is activated, students

>> GOVERNOR RACE, page 8

Mikha Collins | The Connection

The Saramento Mutual Housing Association’s display drew a crowd on Sept. 22 as students learned about internship opportunities.

Internship fair venues grasp student attention Jarrad Hicks Connection Staff With classic Michael Jackson hits blasting in the background and rays of sunlight illuminating the fountain quad, Cosumnes River College hosted an Internship Information Fair on Sept.

22.

CRC students had the opportunity of meeting with over 60 top professionals

from 30 companies throughout the greater Sacramento area.

The hundreds who lined the quad area were able to get job tips and career information, as well as the opportunity to apply for internships with companies ranging from medical leaders like the UC Davis Department of Surgery to broadcast companies like Univision and Access Sacramento. >> INTERNSHIP, page 8

>> FINANCIAL AID, page 8

Opinion

2

September 30, 2010

EDITORIAL

Free speech rights should be upheld San Diego’s award-winning Southwestern College’s campus newspaper, The Sun, faced the threat of ceasing publication of their print edition over the past few weeks due to violating policies that the advisors were unaware of.

Coincidently, controversy concerning the administrative elections on campus were to be published in their first issue when The Sun was informed they could no longer publish their print edition due to a policy that was dormant for more than 15 years.

The administrative board is also rumored to establish a publications oversight board that would be able to appoint and fire the editor-in-chief, according to a release by the Journalism Association of Community Colleges. There are a few universities that utilize this type of oversight, but no one has on the community college AT A GLANCE level in California.

Giving the administrative The Issue: Southwestern board the power to control who College’s student newspaper, “The Sun,” was not al- is in charge of the student press or lowed to publish their first not is dangerous. Students are in issue due to a policy they charge of the campus newspaper were uniformed on. for a purpose, and limiting their authority is a step towards taking Our View: We should away their free speech rights. support “The Sun” beThis kind of situation reminds cause everyone deserves of the 1976 case Nebraska Press to right to free speech.

Association v. Stuart.

In the Nebraska Press AssociaAgree? Disagree? tion v. Stuart case, the publication Send comments to was ordered not to publish an articonnect@crc.losrios.edu cle concerning certain information about a man named Erwin Charles Simants, who was accused of murdering a family in Nebraska. The Supreme Court regarded the prior restraint to be unconstitutional.

This situation at SWC sounds a little too familiar. SWC administrators were suspected to be withholding the paper’s publication because of the information they would release about the administrative government elections. Although they argued they were not using prior restraint against them since they could publish their content on their online publication, there are too many elements that lead to suspect their motives.

Regardless of motivation, it still does not justify the fact that The Sun was denied access to their main source of publication.

Most students receive their source of campus news from the print publication rather than online, according to an article published on Poynter Online, an institute for journalists.

Although SWC has not directly violated student’s free speech rights, the procedures they have enforced are limiting.

Step aside and evaluate this situation. Put yourself in SWC’s shoes for a moment and consider how you would feel if you were in their situation. Every student has the right to speak freely, and that is why we will stand by SWC’s side in their right to be heard.

The Connection Co-Editors-in-Chief Opinion Editor Features Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor Online Editor Copy Editors Production Manager Faculty Adviser

Holly Sanderson & Cory Fong Alex Mosqueda Holly Sanderson Jarrad Hicks Alycia Lourim Cory Fong Maria Zavala & Kelsey Simpson Alycia Lourim Rubina Gulati

The Connection is an award-winning newspaper published bi-weekly by the Journalism 400 newspaper production class. Editorials and opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the students, staff or faculty of CRC or the Los Rios Community College District. The Connection is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges (JACC).

Staff Writers/Photographers/Graphic Artists: Mikha Collins, Troy Davis, Carlo Dela Cruz, Demitri Fellines, Johny Garcia, Tracy Gilkerson, Markie Jewell, Rodrick Lewis, Cynthia Mach, Varsha Narayan, Alyssa Novak, Unique Pierre-Cody, Drew Pitts, Alena Slater, Raynisha Taltoan, Jackie Tse, Branden Wiens Telephone Fax Website E-mail Send letters to

(916) 691-7471 (916) 691-7181 www.crcconnection.com connect@crc.losrios.edu The Connection Cosumnes River College 8401 Center Parkway Sacramento, CA 95823 Or drop by LRC 109 on the first floor of the Learning Resource Center

Letters to the Editor must be typed, signed and include first and last name and a phone number. They must be 200 words or less and may be edited for length, clarity or taste.

Companies now insure marriage For the doubters of the union, such as the father of the bride or even the taunting jealous sister who’s still not hitched can purchase a policy on someone There was a time when marriage meant so much else’s behalf.

However, there are some brides and grooms makmore to people than it does today. When that one girl ing purchases to WedLock. A contributing reason beon the block whose parents were getting divorced was whispered about in the hallways of school, or when sides doubting their other half is the policies in term the family completely moved so they wouldn’t be the seem pretty reasonable in price.

The policies generally start out at about $16 a talk of their small town.

It seems a little out of this century for people to month for every $1250 of coverage wanted. It does get through the hard times and not just give up. A lot not sound bad at all, probably the same reason some of couples, in this age, are making divorce a normal are paying more than a $1000 a month.

The stipulation is the purthing to do. chaser must pay out for the People are trying to find the loopholes in their Marriage is a minimum of four years before ex-spouse’s pocket books and accounts. It’s about cutunion between actually receiving payment on ting ties and trying to figure out what you can actually spouses promis- the policy, if the marriage does gain from it. ing themselves not work out.

A new trend has erupted for people slightly susto each other An added bonus for acpicious of their spouse to be or those who are curfor life. As most tually staying together which rently in marriage doubt. notice in more is generally the plan from the It is called “WedLock” which actually breaks traditional vows beginning. down to simply divorce insurance. After reading an it states “for The purchaser or benarticle in Time magazine about the new insurance on richer or poorer” eficiary receives an additional the market, it almost made me feel indifferent about not “to gain $250 premium for every year marriage. riches after I they stay with their spouse afMarriage is a union between spouses promising leave you.” ter the initial four. themselves to each other for life. As most notice in Is money reason enough more traditional vows it states “for richer or poorer” to leave or stay? A long time not “to gain riches after I leave you.” ago that wouldn’t have been a question.

Now it’s more Divorce insurance is almost the same as getting a prenuptial agreement, which pretty much implies di- about materialistic and financial gain. What you can vorce is an option. Not that a vow between two people get other than love in the relationship or what you can take from it. which was once so sacred, is frowned upon.

Hopefully we can get the leaches or so-called inThis insurance seems like a get-rich-quick methsurance agencies off our backs, out of our ears and get od insurance companies are using to get fast money.

Any person can purchase the insurance on behalf of back to simply loving each other. Not to try to destroy someone else as long as they make that person the a person financially because things didn’t work out. beneficiary.

Raynisha Taltoan Connection Staff

Smokers light up despite signs Unique Pierre-Cody Connection Staff On the steps, or leaning against the buildings, or even walking down the walkway, smoke is smoke and you are going to smell it or come in close contact with it. No amount of signs, rules or laws can change that only people can.

There is the “No smoking within 30 feet of this building” sign that we have on campus. Some don’t recognize the signs, or they just don’t care for them.

Either way students are not listening, no matter what the signs say or what the rules are behind them.

I don’t think the school has enough power to get everyone to listen, so why bother trying when all you will get in return are cigarette butts everywhere.

No one really even knows where exactly 30 feet from each building is. I am going to take a wild guess and say there isn’t at least an 80 foot differences between every building on campus. So these signs are a sneaky way of saying “do not smoke on campus.”

Maybe that’s why no one listens to them.

If you take the signs down, nothing changes. If you keep them and enforce them, more people break the rules.

Although I don’t smoke myself, smoking right outside the door must be very convenient I am guessing. Yet it’s illegal. The law is that school boards can adopt policies prohibiting the possession and use of

tobacco. Schools, public and private, that are receiving money from the government must have some sort of rules, visible or not.

Meaning that if the school board wanted to take them down, they could. The only problem is that the school board doesn’t know that people are not listening to their adopted signs, however the school knows and yet they do nothing. That gives students more of a reaSome don’t son not to listen.

If the school won’t get recognize the these meaningless signs taken signs, or they just don’t care down then they could at least for them. Either make a smoking section. So instead of telling these grown way students are students were they can’t smoke, not listening, no tell them where they can. matter what the That might make it a little signs say or what bit easier. Then they can rethe rules are be- place the signs we have now hind them. with a “Smoking Section” sign.

Most people will use the sections for a while and some will stick to their usual spots, but this is an improvement.

If you are smoking against one of the buildings on campus you will either be stared at until you get the hint or be asked to walk away from the building. You can’t technically call it a rule/law if it isn’t enforced and there are no consequences.

Opinion

September 30, 2010

3

Republican divide caused by Tea Party Branden Wiens Connection Staff All throughout politics, there has always been a third party. You know what I’m talking about, the party that is kind of there, but really isn’t.

You hear their voices, but you don’t pay much attention.

A good example is the Green Party, with Ralph Nader being their primary figurehead. The man has run for president twice with them (1996, 2000) and twice as an Independent (2004, 2008). Nader never wins, nor does he expect to.

But what if a third party candidate, or at least a candidate backed by one, started winning? Enter the Tea Party.

While not technically a “third party” by definition, they are a strong force that opposes the new tax system being put in

place by the Obama administration, and they call for a return to more conservative values.

According to their website, “The Tea Party is a grassroots movement that calls awareness to any issue that challenges the security, sovereignty, or domestic tranquility of our beloved nation, the United States of America.”

The effect that the party is having on the midterm election cycle is astounding.

Politicians that were backed by the party have actually won several elections.

Most notably Republican Scott Brown won the Senate seat that Massahcusetts Democrat Ted Kennedy held for 47 years in the special election that followed Kennedy’s death in 2009.

I think that, while the Tea Party is a great thing, we must be wary of divisions in a political party.

As long ago as 1912, when incumbent Republican President, William Howard Taft won the nomination, former President Teddy Roosevelt formed the Progressive Party, nicknamed The effect that the Bull Moose the party is party, after one of having on the Roosevelt’s many midterm election famous quips. He cycle is astound- managed to split ing. Politicians the vote, giving that were Democrat Woodbacked by the row Wilson an easy victory. party have actuI fear strongly ally won several that this will hapelections. pen here. Opinion polls are all over the place right now when it comes to politics, and this doesn’t help much.

I think that what the Tea Party stands

for is awesome, and I totally applaud what they are doing.

As a Republican, I feel strongly for it, as someone is finally doing something about issues that are affecting the American people, instead of whining from their recliners, but I also don’t want to see my party get torn apart over a few colorful protests.

It’s just not worth it. I’d rather see the party, rather than take sides, convene, and begin to work together.

Already a few of the defeated Republican candidates from the primaries have openly stated that they would not support their chosen party mates.

This is not a good sign, and we may end up with a similar scenario in 2010 that we had in 1912. Abraham Lincoln said it best farther back in 1858 when he said famously, “a house divided against itself will not stand.”

Faux celebrities don’t deserve their fame Jarrad Hicks Connection Staff We Americans love famous people and love the gossip that follows them. It’s fair to say we love a spectacle, something we never seen before.

So when news broke that “OctoMom,” Nadya Suleman, was offered $1 million to do a porno, according to TMZ or that she is in danger of losing her home. She and her 14 kids are even going on welfare, according to the Associated Press, naturally people will pay attention.

And despite the fact that she has done nothing to earn her 15 minutes of fame, she’s working on her 16th because she knows someone will pay attention.

It’s become annoying to watch these reality TV creepers and old silver screen has-beens (or in some cases, “never-

were’s”) fight, scratch, claw and kill to keep their names in the public’s mouths.

No matter how irrelevant or out of touch they’ve become with the American public or reality.

There’s nothing unusual reading about some Z-list celebrity having the opportunity to do a porno, only to turn it down or go on some reality show to boost their “image.”

Not because I’m jealous of their “fame” nor have an axe to grind with any particular person, but because whatever they did to “earn” the acclaim they seek in the first place and why are they so persistent in your attempt to hijack my attention away from something more constructive or deserving.

The very people that we tend to highlight are the ones that deserve it the least.

It’s right there in front of our faces, every

time we turn on the TV. You don’t have to watch on some cable channel like MTV to find these undesirable fame-seekers, all you have to do is tune in to ABC at 8 p.m. Monday nights.

“Dancing with the Stars” has two of the biggest offenders fox-trotting right into our homes every week. Audrina Patridge, whose claim to fame is chasing JustinBobby around and tanning poolside with Lauren Conrad on The Hills, and “Jersey Shore’s” Mike Sorrentino, better known as “The Situation.”

And while “The Situation” has been making sure all Americans go to the gym, tan and make sure to do their laundry, his claim to fame is being a marginal “actor” at best on one of TV’s most controversial reality shows.

These are people being marketed nationally on network television as “stars”

and “role models,” yet at best, what have they done to prove they are either title?

While it’s inspiring every time you find a Susan Boyle, for every one of her there is a William Hung, or even an Antoine Dodson (yes, the same Antoine Dodson who became a viral celebrity by telling viewers to “hide your kids” and “hide your wife” on YouTube and parlayed that into having a hit “Bed Intruder Song” peaked at 89 on the Billboard Hot 100) out there.

I know times have changed and reality stars are the big attraction now. All I’m saying is that your claim to fame should have to do with a talent or a skill you have.

Not that fact that you gave birth to octuplets or that you like to show your abs every 10 seconds while dodging “grenades.” Your 15 minutes ran out a half hour ago. Now you can run and tell that, homeboy.

District attorney sexting scandal is overrated Kelsey Simpson Connection Staff The newest and greatest form of “phone sex” turns to the form of text messages, “sexting.” This makes it easier for the youth to sexually interact with there significant other, or someone otherwise attractive, during school hours or even right before bed.

As fun as that sounds, I’m not really one to condone such behavior, even if said behavior comes from a district attorney who is meant to help others.

Wisconsin District Attorney Kenneth Kratz has been accused of “sexting” at least five woman, according to CNN. One woman who even hired him to help her he sexually harassed with those kinds of text messages.

Take a moment to consider that this

HAWK TALK

man probably doesn’t do very well with the ladies.

Even as a district attorney, clearly he has become a little desperate in the love department.

I feel bad for the guy, to be honest. If the only way he can find some loving is to attempt to successfully “sext” other women, I say just let him.

Besides, who is he really harming in this situation? The women accusing only feel a little violated, but it wasn’t like he got down and dirty with them For someone who offers his services for exchange for sex, Kratz probably hasn’t had much experience. But that’s just me trying to connect the dots here.

Though, if he was that in need of a sexual experience, I’m curious to know why he just didn’t buy himself a prostitute. They don’t run to the police with allegations that

could potentially ruin your career When I had first heard about all of this, I stopped to think, after I finished laughing, of course.

There must have Though, I have been some reato give the guy sons behind why some credit, he would simply taking a girl out dive into sending on a date to an sexual texts to these autopsy; genius. women. Surely they This guy has must have provoked some serious it, right?

Knowing the game. average manipulative woman, I can only take a gander at what the actual circumstances were during the exchange of texts, but, I can’t just assume it was all of Kratz fault.

Though, I have to give the guy some

credit, taking a girl out on a date to an autopsy; genius. This guy has some serious game. I would have never thought to do such a thing, especially if I had access to a morgue or anything otherwise.

And since he was refusing to step down from his position, my only guess is that he believes there was nothing wrong with his actions.

And, aside from the sexual harassment aspect of it, I think he should just be left alone.

The poor guy just wants someone to love, and to be loved by someone else. Isn’t that what we all really want?

I’m not supporting Kratz or his actions, but I think there are some missing pieces of evidence that we all could take a look at. A desperate, loveless guy who had an opportunity for some sex and he took it.

To me, it doesn’t sound that bad.

Do you agree with Sesame Street cutting the Katy Perry clip due to her outfit?

Compiled by Carlo Dela Cruz and Photos by Unique Pierre-Cody

“I didn’t think it was too revealing, It could have been worse.”

“I believe it’s inappropriate for children to see.”

Drinian Pursell, 18 Undecided

Danica Geronimo, 18 Nursing

“Shame on Katy Perry for wearing the dress, but shame on Seasame Street for having her on.”

Haley Hauder, 20 Art / Anthropology

“I blame the stylist for picking the dress.”

Megan Warmerdan, 18 Nutrition

Sports

4

September 30, 2010

Midfielder Daniel Ramirez (9) races ahead of the opposition before halftime on Sept. 17 at CRC’s home game against the American River College Beavers.

Men’s soccer plays hard, but falls short Story By Unique Pierre-Cody Photos By Mikha Collins Connection Staff

The men’s soccer team fought on their home field against rival American River College but came up short in 2-0 match Sept.17.

Cosumnes River College dug themselves a hole as ARC defender Mason McCann scored the game’s first goal off of a penalty kick.

Head coach Ron Preble said his team had to adapt to the game’s physical style.

“The referees were giving away fouls early in the game so we had to readjust early to win the game,” Preble said.

ARC defender Brian Duran scored the second goal.

Freshman forward John McNerney said his team is making great progress and he can see the change.

“It’s like climbing a hill, if you don’t get to the top fast enough you start to slide backwards,” McNerney said.

Defender Marshall Ayne (27), top, sends the ball downfield to waiting teammates to escape ARC’s defense.

Goalkeeper Jorge Martinez, bottom, blocks practice shots before the game.

Defender Marshall Ayne (27), left, guards the ball, dribbling downfield to attempt a goal.

Sports

September 30, 2010

5

Hawks suffer tough loss against Fresno City 1-0 Jarrad Hicks Connection Staff The Cosumnes River College women’s soccer team faltered at home as they lost 1-0 to Fresno City College Sept. 14. Fresno City midfielder Carley Griffin scored the game’s lone goal late in the 38th minute on a breakaway down the middle of the field. Head coach Cesar Placensia said his team “didn’t have enough energy� to beat Fresno City. “They controlled all areas of the game,� Placensia said. “And when you can’t match their effort, you can’t get involved in the game.�

Fresno City continued on the offensive the entire match, while the CRC Hawks were unable to match the same level of play. “This is a young team,�

Placensia said. “We haven’t learned how to compete or win yet. And that’s the process we’re going through right now as a group.�

Center striker and team captain Christina Gomez said chances to score presented themselves for her team, but the Hawks were unable to capitalize off those situations. “We did have some opportunities,� Gomez said. “Unfortunately, we just didn’t finish them.�

Opportunities like Gomez missing a one-on-one attempt against Fresno City goalkeeper Stephanie Wininger before halftime hampered CRC from

Demitri Fellines | The Connection

In an attempt to protect her goalie, Cosumnes River College right-back Stephanie Vega, right, clears a ball out of the Hawks’ side of the field. The game ended in a 1-0 loss against Fresno City College on Sept. 14. establishing any rhythm.

Wininger also kept the Hawks from stealing back momentum with save after save.

Gomez said while the effort wasn’t a bad one, the Hawks still

need to improve and raise their level of play as the season moves forward. “I think we could have played a lot better than we did,� Gomez said.  “We could have won more

balls, we could’ve taken more shots and won a lot more 50-50 balls.�

The Hawks’ season continues Oct. 5 at home against American River College in conference play.

Goodwill’s new Cosumnes River Blvd. Store in the “College Square Marketplace� offers over 10,000 square feet of clothes, household goods and other great stuff. With prices so low, you might consider a bigger shopping bag.

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION # ! $ " % !

7441 West Stockton Boulevard

(intersection of Bruceville and Cosumnes River Blvd.)

“For the most part, the effort wasn’t bad,� Gomez said. “I just thought we could raise it up to another level and we didn’t. So hopefully we’ll do that next game.�

Features

6

Native American culture honored through festivities

September 30, 2010

FILM REVIEW

Branden Wiens Connection Staff In a world where we all have iPhones and Blackberries, updating our status every ten seconds, it can be easy to forget who we are, where we live.

Sept. 23 may have just seemed like another Friday to you, but to the many tribes of California Indians, it was a very special day. It was a day of observance, culture and remembrance.

In 1968, Ronald Reagan asked for a resolution to create the holiday, and in 1998, it was decided that every fourth Friday in September would be the state holiday referred to as “Native American Day”, according to AB 1953.

A celebration was held on the South steps of the State Capitol in Sacramento, and featured Native American traditions, most notably, traditional tribal dances performed by the Sheep Ranch Rancheria MeWuk Dancers and the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians Dance Group.

One of the larg- “The event honors the est aspects highcontributions made by lighted were the different cultures that Native Americans to the Native people society, and I think the have. event accomplished “We aren’t one culture,” said Al that.”

Striplen, a docent at the California State Al Striplen Indian Museum in California State Indian Musem Docent Sacramento.

“Within the Amah-Olone region, that ranges from South San Francisco to Monterey, a total of 13 different languages are spoken,” Striplen said to exemplify the variety of Native American culture.

While cultural differences are important, the theme of this year’s event was tribal justice.

“The takeaway message is that tribal justice is a positive thing for California’s Indian country,” said Olin Jones, the director of the Office of Native American Affairs.

Among those honored at the event were the Native American veterans that had served in the armed forces during World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the current conflicts in Afganistan and Iraq, as well as any other minor conflict the United States has taken part in over the years.

The celebration was opened and closed with the Tule River Color Guard presentation of the flags.

“We’ve been posting the colors for five years,” said Louie Espinoza, a member of the Tule River Post 1987 of Native American Veterans. “We go in a circle with the flags when we enter, and we go in a circle when we leave according to tradition.”

The event. which was designed to honor Native Americans, had a pretty fair turnout.

“A pretty standard crowd,” Striplen said. “The event honors the contributions made by Native Americans to society, and I think the event accomplished that.”

Courtesy Photo

‘Devil’s’ sinister twist captures audience Varsha Narayan Connection Staff With so many scary movies failing to deliver this year, “Devil” takes the cake as one of the most intriguing horror films released yet.

Written by M. Night Shyamalan, “Devil” has the basic suspenseful elements of any Shyamalan film along with a clever plot, shocking twist and a surprising ending. Known for his epic twists within the story line, Shyamalan didn’t fail to keep his audience guessing until the end.

In this supernatural thriller, a group of strangers are stuck in an elevator with no way out. Lights start to flicker and ,one by one, the people die. Although it sounds a bit overdone, Shyamalan cleverly puts in a few twists and turns to keep the audience on their toes. While “Devil” doesn’t showcase his best work in comparison to his critically acclaimed debut, “The Sixth Sense,” it is the best we have seen from him in recent years.

Although the movie is only 80 minutes long, Shyamalan does the best he can with every minute in the film. The movie was filled with overly dramatic language to emphasize and create tense moments. Despite its lack of excitement in the beginning, Shyamalan makes up for it with the dramatic ending.

Director John Erick Dowdle combined elements from Alfred Hitchcock’s films and modern day scary movies to create an original and surprisingly well-done Starring: Chris Messina, Jenny O’Hara Logan Marshall-Green, Jacob Vargas Directed by: John Erick Dowdle Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 1:20

film. The whole movie plays out like a classic murder mystery. The audience is being strung along, trying to figure out who the killer is. The detectives and security guards trying to get victims out of the elevator are watching the murders play out on the security screens in front of them. While the detectives are trying to rescue them, they are also trying to figure out who the murderer is.

The story gets even more interesting when we realize all the characters are connected in some way. “Devil” does a good job at keeping tension throughout the movie. The performances in the movie were all fairly decent.

The characters were all well developed and the audience got a sense of who they were. However, the acting was very one-dimensional and could’ve used more emotion.

With a screenplay written by Brian Nelson, and a story written by Shyamalan, Shyamalan has faced a great deal of criticism for his more recent works.

He hit gold with his 1999 thriller, “The Sixth Sense”.

However, he has failed to reach the same level of success with his following films.

He did have some success with his 2002 sci-fi thriller “Signs.” But his highly anticipated film, “The Last Airbender,” failed to please both critics and viewers earlier this year.

Overall, “Devil” is one of Shyamalan’s better recent films. With an interesting plot and killer ending, it fails to disappoint.

Author’s score:

-Author’s score is 3 out of 5 stars.

Consul General speaks about violence and immigration Johny Garcia Connection Staff Carlos Gutierrez, Sacramento’s Consul General for Mexico, spoke at Sacramento State University on Sept. 20 regarding what he is in charge of, California’s relationship with Mexico and some issues in Mexico.

Over 150 people gathered inside of an auditorium to listen to Gutierrez’s speech.

Gutierrez’s duty as Consul General is to protect the interests and rights of Mexican immigrants in his jurisdiction, which spreads over 24 counties in Northern and Central California and includes about 830,000 people.

Gutierrez said his department provides legal assistance to Mexicans by representing them in court, helping with funeral arrangements and by making sure they receive appropriate legal treatment in jail.

“I can marry people, but I can’t divorce people,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez said California’s residents link the state to Mexico.

“In California, almost one out of every three people

have Mexican blood in them and can trace [their ancestry] back to Mexican origins,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez said Mexico is still being built and is full of opportunities.

“Half of the 107 million people in Mexico are under 30 years old,” Gutierrez said. “Mexico is expected to grow by 4 percent this year and by 5 percent in 2011.”

Gutierrez discussed the drug trafficking problem in Mexico, which he said is going through a self-destruction process.

“The increase in drug related violence by criminals in Mexico is a direct response to the Mexican government cracking down on drug trafficking,” Gutierrez said. “Yes, 28,000 people have died since 2006, but we must understand that it [the drug trafficking problem] can only be defeated with force by the Mexican government.”

Gutierrez argued that the stereotype about Mexico being chaotic is wrong.

“Mexico has a promising future,” said Gutierrez. “It has a stable government and a strong legal framework.”

Paramo Hernandez, a 53-year-old member of the

Union Civica Primero de Mayo, a group dedicated to defending the rights of Mexican immigrants, said Gutierrez wasn’t being entirely honest.

Hernandez said the Mexican government is not “Mexico has a stable because people who promising future. try to speak out against the It has a stable government are silenced.

“In 2006, when the government and a teacher’s union [in Mexico] strong legal went on strike, the Mexican framework.” government sent troops to kill 24 of the teachers, inCarlos Gutierrez cluding one American jourConsul General nalist Brad Will,” Hernandez said. “The Mexican government is destroying civil liberties, yet spending millions to celebrate this.”

Although Hernandez was in disagreement with Gutierrez, they both agreed on one thing: Mexican immigrants need help when it comes to defending their rights.

Features

September 30, 2010

7

Students speak out about hispanic heritage Johny Garcia Connection Staff Cosumnes River College always takes pride in the diversity of its students by celebrating each and every cultural month.

From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, CRC’s focus will be on Hispanic Heritage Month.

According to Biography.com, in 1968, the U.S. government created a weeklong event in order to celebrate Hispanics’ major involvement in U.S. history.

It was then lengthened to a month long event in 1988.

Students said the month long event continues to be important. “Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it reminds us (Hispanics) of where we came from and what we went through as a people,� said Ray Garcia, a 20year-old digital media major. “If everything that was done in the past never happened, then we probably wouldn’t even be here.�

Students also said Hispanic Heritage Month gives them a sense of pride. “It allows people to have that sense of pride for their culture that is necessary in being able to proclaim where your descendants are from,� said Jesse Rodriguez, a 19year-old economics and business administrative major. “Personally, I feel that every day our culture’s beliefs and traditions clash with those of the American culture, so we sometimes forget or lose what our parents have raised us with.�

Jessica Damian, a 20-year-old Latin American studies major, said the goal of Hispanic Heritage Month should be a lifelong mindset. “The good intentions of Hispanic Heritage Month should be incorporated into our daily lives because the images we see (of Hispanics) aren’t always positive,� Da-

mian said. “My culture is just an ongoing thing that I live everyday, not something that I can sum up and celebrate just in one month.�

Deva Chopyak, who has taught sociology at CRC for over six years, said Hispanic Heritage Month should be educational and fun. “I would like to see their areas of contribution, and how they have added to the (American) mosaic,� Chopyak said. “Often times we only see the stereotypes, but there’s so much more they have to offer.�

For Hispanic Heritage Month, students currently involved in activities on campus want more students to get involved. “I would like to see the students, especially the Latino students, come out and participate in (events) on campus, and become active in creating “Personally, I feel events on that every day our cul- c a m p u s ,� ture’s beliefs and tradi- Rodriguez tions clash with those of said. “Curthe American culture, so rently, there only we sometimes forget or are lose what our parents a handful of people have raised us with.� who are atJesse Rodriguez t e m p t i n g Economics and Busi- to organize ness Administrative memorable events for major all the students, and if more students get involved, we would likely have big festival things happening.�

Students said they usually celebrate the month with their families and friends. “For Hispanic Heritage Month, my grandma always comes and cooks something homemade for my family,� Garcia

said. “She usually makes something like pozole, tacos, chile rellenos, or torrejas, with some horchata on the side.�

Professors said although the separate cultural celebrations are a good step in the right direction, they’d rather see one big united celebration of all cultures. “Ideally, it would be so nice to have one day of celebration to celebrate everybody’s culture, including people who are not represented by the major groups,� Chopyak said. “There are still groups asking, ‘What about me?’�

>>Did you know?

In 2008, the United States’ Hispanic population ranked 2nd largest in the world In 2000, the surname Garcia was the 8th most common surname in the U.S. The U.S. Hispanic population grew 3.1% between July 1, 2008 and July 1, 2009 16 states in the U.S. have at least half a million Hispanic residents 50% of all hispanic citizens voted in the 2008 presidential elction 1.1 million hispanics ages 18 and older are in the U.S armed forces -All from the U.S Census Bureau

LOCAL EVENTS Bad Company 10/1 7:30 p.m Thunder Valley Casino Despised Icon, Misery Indeex, and Revocation 10/1 7:30 p.m The Boardwalk Brightmillion 10/1 8:30 p.m Fire Escpae Bar and Grill Maroon 5 10/15 7:00 p.m.

Arco Arena $40, $50, $60

CAMPUS EVENTS “All I Do Is Play,� How to FindQuality Child Care 9/30 12:30 p.m - 1:30 p.m.

L 313 Student Workshop: Study Skills 9/30 12:30-1:30 CAC 230 Exploring Global Culture Film: “Crucible of Empire: The Spanish-American War�

10/13 5:30 p.m.

LRC 102

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Luigi’s Slice and Fun Garden provides fun entertainment Mikha Collins Connection Staff

PAY OFF

YOUR EDUCATION Tuition costs shouldn’t stop you from reaching your goals in life.

By joining the Army National Guard, you’ll receive the money you need to help pay for college as well as the skills and training you need to get the career you want. If you’re looking to get through college, with the Army National Guard, you can!

C ALIFOR

NIA

After a rousing night of dancing in midtown, you step into the cool night air, adjust your clubbing shoes and navigate your way to Luigi’s Slice.

The neon-green sign may be hard to find at first, with the many food choices available on 20th Street, but once inside it is easy to see it’s a popular night spot.

On my visit late Friday night, the tables were full with well-dressed patrons, who had obviously taken a break from the night life to munch on their favorite pizza slice.

The modestly sized restaurant had a simple layout consisting of an ordering station and dining area, which promotes what I suppose is the main idea: to get your pizza and eat it.

While not being particularly stylish, though they did have some funky art displayed on one wall, the place was truly designed to sit and relax with friends over a slice.

And what a slice it was. The greasy slice of ham and pineapple I ordered was delicious even though I’m not usually a fan of premade pizza.

The bulk of Luigi’s reputation comes from its original-tasting pizza, which caters to meat lovers, vegetarian and anyone in between. The menu was fairly priced and

offered pizza, whole or by the slice, salad, sandwiches, beer and wine.

Along with a good meal, Luigi’s offers fun and entertainment at Fungarden, their venue conveniently found next door.

Featuring a small, well-lit stage at the back of the narrow room, the Fungarden hosts events like live music or private parties. I stumbled into a live show, performed by the band Be Bold Brave Robot, who were drawing a decent crowd of rowdy beer drinkers from the restaurant with their folk rock music.

They also had some arcade games and air hockey available but they were awkwardly placed behind the stage, along with the bathroom, which made navigating through the crowd to “handle business� a bit difficult.

Unfortunately, the restaurant and venue are separated by a wall, so you can’t eat and watch at the same time but, all in all, the intimate venue was a cool place to see a show and being rowdy with everyone was fun.

Luigi’s is a great choice to make when enjoying the fun of midtown on a Friday night.

This popular hole-in-the-wall seems to be exactly what night-goers need; a cheap, fun place for friends and food. And they’re open late on weekends so the party can keep going till two in the morning.

Author’s score:

SSG Javier Machado 916-320-8459 .!4)/.!,'5!2$ COM s '/ '5!2$

-Author’s score is 3 and a half out of 5 stars.

News

8

September 30, 2010

Internship: venues provide opportunities Continued from page 1

Working at Entercom Radio, the parent company of radio stations 107.9 The End, 98 Rock and ESPN 1320, Program Assistant Celina Spencer said having such a large turnout was a great way to interact with students and inform them about the internship and career opportunities available.

“At Entercom Radio, we’re hiring for spring interns in our promotions department,” Spencer said. “But really it’s a great way to get your foot in the door, kind of like a general internship. You get the opportunity to see all the different departments.”

Bryan Wells, a 19-year-old communications major, said he was a little intimidated at first. But Wells said as soon as he approached the various booths and found out how knowledgeable and helpful the company professionals were he wanted to take full advantage of the moment.

“There are a lot of people out here looking for student interns, paid or unpaid,” Wells said. “It’s just a great opportunity if you were looking for a job, so to speak.”

Big companies weren’t the only ones out presenting opportunities to students.

Lisa Riddle, a 39-year-old photography major, helped operate the photography department table, as they were also showing off student work and informing students about their programs, no matter their level of experience.

“We’re just trying to show that you can come to CRC with no knowledge of photography at all and get to an advanced level,” Riddle said. “We also have internships and so many photo opportunities.”

Arnel Wiliams, 40, a business major, summed up

Mikha Collins | The Connection

Students eagerly explore radio marketing opportunities at the Entercom Radio booth among many others on Sept. 22 at the Internship Information Fair. the day’s atmosphere as he operated the construction department booth and informed students about becoming more energy efficient.

“I’ve met a lot of interesting people,” Wiliams said.

“It’s always good to network and to share information.”

Governor race: student turned off by ‘slam campaigning’ Continued from page 1

Whitman is representing herself.

“I’d rather vote for Jerry Brown, Meg Whitman is not personable in the way she talks to the press,” Crump said.

Adams said although he supports Jerry Brown on what he stands for, he feels the GOP party is leaning more towards “slam campaigning,” which caused him to change his vote.

Since all he sees Meg Whitman do is slam Jerry Brown, Adams said, he has no idea what exactly she wants to do for California.

For one student, this is the first California election she will be participating in.

Judy Annsantos is a 19-year-old biological science major who moved to California from Saipain.

Annsantos said she wants to wait until the election to vote as well. She said the end is when it all sums up, and then she will know whom she will choose.

Annsantos also said she is proud to vote.

“I have an opportunity to pick our

leader,” Annsantos said. “I think they are missing out. I don’t think they realize how much of an impact our leaders have on us,” she said about people who don’t participate in voting.

>> Election Information Future gubernatorial debates: 10/2, 10/12 Senate Candidates: Incumbent Democrat Barbara Boxer v. Republican Carly Fiorina Ballot Initiatives: Prop. 19 - Medical marijuana legality Prop. 21 - $18 charge on vehicle registration towards state park and beach access Prop. 25 - Legislative voting requirements changed from 2/3 to simple majority

Mikha Collins | The Connection

Newly instated Commissioner of Public Relations, Eartha Williams, is sworn in and welcomed to the Associated Student Government on Sept. 27.

ASG: student government canFinancial aid: students approve didates welcomed in ceremony of new debit card alternative Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1

will be able to make deposits, send money and manage their account with online banking, Kwang said.

The site, LRCCDOneCard.com, also has tips on how to manage and save money. Students receiving financial aid said they are excited about the promise of faster service.

“It’s a fantastic idea. After weeks of agony waiting for my papers to be processed, I’d want my money as soon as possible,” said Briana Kramer, 21, a nursing major.

Students said they are also looking forward to having new delivery options available.

“It’s really great to go paperless,” said

Dino Vajraca, 19, an architecture major.

“Direct deposit sounds helpful to get your money faster. You’d have more control over your money.”

All of the community colleges in the Los Rios district will be switching to the LRCCD OneCard, which means individual schools will no longer be responsible for distributing financial aid to their students, Kwang said.

Once the debit card comes in the mail, students must go online and activate their individual accounts to receive their benefits.

“I hope with the card there will be no delays like before,” Kramer said. “It would be nice to have my books on time.”

was elected as the Commissioner of Activities; Ryan Lockwood was elected as the Commissioner of Legislative Affairs; Eartha Williams was elected as Commissioner of Public Relations.

Additionally, Tony Toledo was elected as the Commissioner of Environmental Affairs; Greg Mitchell was elected as Senator of Athletics and Physical Education; and finally, Veronica Bryant was elected as Senator for Business and Family Services.

With the results in, the victors were officially inducted during the Oath of Office Ceremony on Sept. 27, where students and other ASG members were in attendance.

Newly anointed Senator for Business & Family Services Veronica Bryant stated

her rationale for running.

“It is never my intention to just exist, but to make a difference and be a positive impact on my community,” Bryant said.

“Now, 10 years later, I’d like to help guide others to focus on the same things that helped me and made my stay here much more pleasant.”

>> Vote allocation Amanda Saelee Ryan Lockwood Eartha Williams Tony Toledo Greg Mitchell Veronica Bryant

427 410 416 392 419 315