The Connection Vol. 57 Issue 1 02/10/2011

Exploring Global Culture

Professors promote global and cultural awareness FEATURES } Page 4

The Connection The student voice of Cosumnes River College since 1970

Volume 57, Issue 1

February 10, 2011

www.crcconnection.com

Counselors explore financial aid options

More budget cuts?

Theresa Moore Connection staff

Photo Illustration

Governor’s proposed budget raises concern Joe Conradsen Connection staff The recent budget proposal

by Gov. Jerry Brown intends to slash into community college funds, which may cause classes to be cut and raised enrollment fees.

According to a Jan. 11 article in the Sacramento Bee, Brown said, “We must now return California to fiscal responsibility…and get our state on the road to economic recovery and job growth.”

Brown intends to cut $1 billion from California’s UCs

and CSUs and $400 million from community colleges. In some cases, cuts will cripple California’s community colleges, and its ability to allow students to move on.

In response to the college not providing a necessary science course to move on, Celina Peterson, a 19-year-old anthropology major stated, “That’s my prerequisite for all my other science classes. I can’t go any further without that class.”

The proposal will cause a six percent decrease in the California Community College budget,

and fees will go from $26 to $36 per unit. Beginning in fall 2011 a student enrolled in 15 units will pay around $540 a semester, instead of $390. If this proposal is passed then further cuts will be made which may lead to less courses being made available.

Classes that don’t support transfer, job retraining, obtaining degrees, certificates and improving basic math and English skills may be cut first.

“If I had time, I would take them,” said Michael Lee, 19, a biology major. “I don’t, so I don’t care if they are out.” When asked

about how the budget is affecting him this semester Lee responded with frustration. Lee was upset about attending two schools just to get the classes that he needed.

Why two schools? Because one school is not able to provide needed classes in many cases due to the cuts.

Kristin Tyryggrason a 21-year-old pre-law major mentions a similar problem.

“I alternate semester between ARC (American River College) and CRC (Cosumnes River College).

Depending

See BUDGET, Page 8

Faculty announces scholarship winners Osay Ogbebor Connection staff

Students gathered around the Fountain Quad Area for the Textbook Scholarship Drawing on Feb. 3, eagerly waiting to see if their name was going to be drawn from the box.

During the day, students were able to participate in the drawing by filling out a sheet for a chance of winning a $250 gift card at the Cosumnes River College Bookstore, the Hawk’s Nest.

Later in the afternoon, 24 winning names would be heard from the microphone.

“The CRC Foundation was looking for a way to impact a lot of students that needed help,” said Kenneth G. Cooper, director of College Advancement. “So they agreed that textbook support would be very important being that the price of textbooks seem to go up.”

During the fall and spring See SCHOLARSHIP, Page 8

With California’s education funding becoming more and more scarce, enrollment fees are rising and the amount of classes available is being downsized by the semester.

“Financial aid is a life saver for some Cosumnes River College students,” said Kim Green, student financial aid assistant .“It helps students in dire need of money for school.”

Despite the state’s struggling economy, there are many opportunities available to students through financial aid.

To receive this assistance, students must complete a fee waiver application or must have applied for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) and be a California resident.

The Board of Governors (BOG) fee waiver is to assist eligible students by waiving the $26 per unit enrollment fees. All resident students are encouraged to apply at least 10 days prior to their registration date.

The Cal Grant is another way to get cash for college. There are several types of Cal Grants that See FINANCIAL AID, Page 8

Campus reacts to State of the Union Tracy Gilkerson Connection staff

Adam Hally | The Connection

CRC President Deborah Travis draws names while Director of College Advancement Kenneth Cooper announces winners at the Textbook Scholarship Drawing in the Fountain Quad, on Feb. 3.

President Barack Obama delivered his annual State of the Union where he addressed a number of issues facing the nation, on Jan. 25.

He laid out his plans for the future, stressing a need to reestablish the nation’s global competitiveness. The United States’ infrastructure, Obama Said, has fallen below satisfactory conditions.

“We need to out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world.” President Obama said. “We have to make America the best place on Earth to do business.”

There were mixed reviews among the Cosumnes River College’s community that were interviewed.

“I agreed with the assessment of our infrastructure - our infrastructure is aging,” said political See SPEECH, Page 8

Opinion

2

February 10, 2011

EDITORIAL

Proposed Tuition Hike Following his election victory late last year, Gov. Jerry Brown warned education leaders to “fasten your seat belt” and brace for impact as the deadline for the state’s budget proposal approached.

He wasn’t kidding.

As a part of his proposed budget, Gov. Brown called for the cut of $400 million from community colleges, as well as raising enrollment fees from $26 a unit to $36. The raise would soften the blow of the proposed cuts by $110 million – adjusted, the total cut would actually amount to $290 million.

California community colleges are expecting to turn away roughly 350,000 students in the next year, according to a press release issued by the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.

AT A GLANCE The proposal is just the latest instance in a slew of budget cuts higher The Issue: Proposed budeducation has faced in the get cuts will have a signifipast few years. The situation cant impact on the future looks bleak, but this is to of higher education. be expected – no facet of the state’s structure will be Our View: Students must left unharmed in attempt to increase awareness regardremedy the overwhelmingly large budget deficit. ing budget cuts.

While the accessibility of college is Agree? Disagree? increasingly at risk due Send comments to to higher unit fees and connect@crc.losrios.edu shrinking enrollment, California community college students should consider themselves relatively fortunate.

Community college tuition within the state is still the cheapest in the country. Even if Gov. Brown proposed to raise fees to $46 or $60 per suggestion of the Legislative Analyst’s Office, that status would remain intact.

On the surface, such fee hikes can be daunting. That’s why it’s of the utmost importance, now more than ever, that students utilize the financial aid resources available to them.

If you’re a low-income student, look to the Board of Governors’ (BOG) fee waiver to absorb the majority of your education costs. If you don’t qualify for the waiver, research the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC), which was recently extended to the end of the 2012 tax year. The AOTC enables students to write-off up to $2,000 in college fees, including the costs of textbooks, for the first four years of college. There are numerous opportunities available to students of all income brackets, seize them.

Further, it is absolutely essential that students remain engaged in discussions and news regarding the state’s budget policy in the coming months. Brown’s budget proposal will be voted on in June during a special election, giving California’s citizenry the ultimate decision in determining the state’s socioeconomic future. The changes enacted will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of California’s higher education.

Education: An Issue for Civil Rights Cory Fong Connection Staff In defense of a stipulation of his budget proposal – one that would dispose of redevelopment agencies and divert, rather than cut, tax revenue to K-12 education – Gov. Jerry Brown labeled education funding as a civil rights issue.

Brown’s assertion is in regard to the underwhelming scholastic performance displayed by California’s Latino and African-American population – specifically pointing to the disparity between poorer and wealthier districts as a contributing factor.

It would be fair to assume Brown is arguing a decrease in K-12 education funding would exacerbate an already troubling situation. Further, it would also be fair to assume that most would agree with this diagnosis, even Brown’s detractors.

So what’s the problem?

There seems to be some controversy regarding Brown’s choice of words – civil rights. More specifically, is education a fundamental right? Are those who are denied access to, or experiencing a disproportionate level of education being denied of what everyone should receive equally?

The answer is a bit complicated.

According to the United States Constitution, the answer is no – there is no article or amendment that specifically indicates education as a fundamental right.

However, Amendment IX states the following: “The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain

Dr. King’s Dream Remains Unrealized Jarrad Hicks Connection Staff

The Connection

Staff

Co-Editors-in-Chief News Editors Opinion Editor Features Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor Online Editor Production Manager Faculty Adviser Antoine Allen Tashia Brantley Joe Conradsen Adam Hally John Hesselbein

Cory Fong & Branden Wiens Cory Fong & Branden Wiens Raynisha Taltoan Varsha Narayan Johny Garcia Unique Pierre-Cody Carlo Dela Cruz Tracy Gilkerson David Weinshilboum

Jarrad Hicks Dorian Love Theresa Moore Daniel Newport Alyssa Novak

David Obisanya Osay Ogbebor Vinita Singh Stephan Starnes

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).

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.

Telephone Fax Website E-mail Address Or drop by

916.691.7471 916.691.7181 www.crcconnection.com connect@crc.losrios.edu The Connection Cosumnes River College 8401 Center Parkway Sacramento, CA 95823 LRC 109 on the first floor of the Learning Resource Center

rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.”

Further, Amendment X states “the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.”

Essentially, just because you do not see certain rights addressed, that does not mean you are denied of it. Additionally, it is up to the states to decide the nature of unstated rights.

So how does California view it?

In 1971, in Serrano v. Priest, the California Supreme Court ruled in its interpretation of the state’s Constitution that, under the equal protection clause, education is indeed a fundamental right. The court also ruled that education funding must be equal as well – citing the equal protection clause again.

Brown’s assessment is correct in this regard.

Proper funding is necessary for our future generation’s ability to effectively participate in the political process. Inhibiting this necessity can be severely deterimental to our state and the nation as a whole – especially in the face of enormous budget deficits and rising costs.

Brown seems to contradict himself, though.

In his proposal, he elects to cut $500 million each from UCs and CSUs, with an additional $400 million cut from community colleges. These institutions will react as they have before – raising tuition and limiting enrollment.If higher education becomes less affordable and accessible young adults, Brown is, in essence, crippling the very institution he’s defending.

“I have a dream.”

Generally when those words are heard, visions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivering his famous speech at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington are recollected. It’s without question one of the most famous phrases in American history. In the time since he uttered those four words until, America has changed for the better.

C i v i l rights for people of all dif“I have a dream that ferent nationone day this nation will alities have rise up and live out the improved not true meaning of it’s only in this creed: We hold these America but truths to be self-eviin other coundent, that all men are tries around created equal” the world.

Even what Martin Luther King Jr was unimaginable just 50 years ago is a reality today, with Barack Obama as the nation’s first black president.

But when thinking about those words, what does it really mean? Just how far have we come as Americans? In the time between 1963 and 2011, have we honestly achieved Dr. King’s dream?

From the outside looking inward, one might say we have achieved Dr. King’s dream. But as an American citizen, while we’ve made great strides, we as people are nowhere close to that high standard.

“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We

hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” King said.

His dream was embedded in the American dream, that regardless of one’s race, religion, or beliefs, we are all equals as human beings. And should be treated equally. A dream that having different color skin or coming from a different culture should not even be a factor in the way a person are treated or the opportunities that one is presented with.

If we were being honest with ourselves, it’s obvious that we are not living out that all men (and women) are created equal. Why should it be okay that we can send our soldiers over to fight for our freedoms and provide national security, yet the topic of our soldiers being able to openly be who they are while serving this country is up for debate?

While just a few decades ago, it would have been unheard of to see so multiple black head coaches and executives in major American professional athletics, today it is almost an afterthought. Blacks and other minority groups are being giving a plethora of opportunities outside of the playing field through many rules and protocols stemming from affirmative action.

Currently seven out of the 32 NFL franchises employ black head coaches including Super Bowl XLIII winning coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers. But with that said, do some of these rules hinder progress as well. The NFL’s “Rooney Rule” requires that teams consider minority candidates before hiring for positions such as head coach and general manager. But if a team has already chosen their person, then what does the rule do except use someone to meet a quota.

While our country is far from perfect, it is headed in the right direction. We have come a long way since August 28, 1963. But even though we are moving in the race of equality, we still have a ways to go before reaching the finish line and Dr. King’s dream.

Opinion

February 10, 2011

3

MTV’s under age actors spark controversy Stephan Starnes Connection Staff

MTV’s new show Skins has been in the news for having underage actors who portray sexual acts and drug use.

The Parents Television Council, an advocacy group concerned with informing parents of television shows that may be beneficial or harmful to children’s development, wants Skins to be looked into for being child pornography, according to CBSnews.com.

The problem with this claim is that porn is something that has no literary or artistic value beyond that of sexual satisfaction.

After viewing the first two episodes, I see no problem with underage actors playing the roles that they do. Shows like Gossip Girl use adults to play teenagers in similar situations. In my view, if it is alright for adults to play these roles, actual teenagers should be given the same right. It is a fictional work, and teenagers may be able to get messages across to their audience better.

While the first episode may have been over the top with just sexuality and drugs, the second episode tamed the initial portrayal and brought teenagers a way to learn about sexuality, and the effects of drug use.

The second episode went away from the pointless partying and turned into moreserious topics, which most shows tend to shy away from. Based on this, claims of it being pornography

could not be true. The show has brought new dimensions to its characters with them dealing with their sexuality.

In my view, teenagers would be able to benefit more from the lessons of the damaging effects of drugs, coming to terms with their sexuality, and other issues without the disconnect of having adult actors pretending to be teenagers. One of the main appeals of this show is that it has teenagers speaking to a teenage audience

Reality stars cash in with self promotion overload Varsha Narayan Connection Staff

Out of all the books being released, many of them happen to be self help books.

Mike “The Situation” With Reality TV stars gaining popularity throughout the past few Sorrentino released a workout book years, we have begun to see them use while Lauren Conrad released a their new found stardom to endorse book on Fashion tips and tricks.

It’s funny because there are various products and find different ways to add to their growing fortunes. dozens of books in existence that

The latest form of cashing in contain the same information, yet we on this new found fame are books. don’t see those being talked about.

The thing that seems to trouble me

In the past months, we’ve seen various reality stars add “author” to their resume. But the most is that these people are showing are these so called celebrities book worthy? up on the New York Times Best Seller list.

At one time this was a list of books

Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi recently released her first book cleverly titled written by notable authors, it is now “A Shore Thing.” The book is retelling being taken over by a bunch of “D” list what happens on the show but through celebrities whose claim to fame was either the eyes of a fictional character. being born into a rich family or getting

It is very similar to what Lauren punched in a bar while in a drunken haze.

What makes these books even worthy Conrad did last year with her L.A Candy books. What is the point of of the attention that they receive? Anyone that? This is obviously just their way of can write a book about their lives, it holding on to their 15 minutes of fame. doesn’t mean people would want to read it.

The same goes for these “celebrities”

What makes them or any other reality star book worthy? Personally, I don’t think if they weren’t reality TV stars.

These people picked up pens and wrote there is anything these people can write about that i can’t figure out from Google. their life stories down. Nothing about

If the Kardashians write a book that that deserves the praise that they recieve.

So if you need help fixing your pouf consists of two sentences, it will sell. or pairing up your outfits, be sure to check Same goes for any reality star.

They write these pointless “books” out the New York Times Best Seller list. just so they can call themselves authors. I’m sure you’ll find exactly what your That is definitely a title they don’t deserve. looking for.

HAWK TALK

about issues many shows are afraid to tackle.

A main focus of the second episode is on a character named Tea and her life as a lesbian. Today with so much bullying,suicides and otherissues,havingrolemodels, especially ones viewers can identify with, is important.

Shows that feature adults prominently, or have actors whom are adults seem unreal and disconnected from the viewers.

Skins is a show for teenagers to know that

people understand their side of things.

Tea’s character has shown that there is more to her than her partying lifestyle. She has had to deal with not only hersexuality, but also her strange family dynamic and her grandma who suffers with Alzheimer’s.

Teenagers in real life go through these issues, and they should be shown that they aren’t alone. Skins is a show that can do that unlike any other show out there right now.

Zodiac signs should not be changed Unique Pierre-Cody Connection Staff The one month bump in the stars alignment can’t change how and what people have been going by their entire lives.

The new zodiac sign is named Ophiuchus, which means healer of men and doctor in medicine or science.

What makes the sign so hard to believe is that the other zodiac signs have real traits such as: emotional, controlling and charismatic. The traits that come with Ophiuchus is “expected to achieve a high position in life” and “it’s the only zodiac sign that attaches to a real man.” According to Times magazine, those aren’t even real traits.

Even though Ophiuchus is the last zodiac sign, number 13, it was put right in between Capricorns and Sagittarians with the dates Nov. 29 through Dec. 17. So the sign affects all 12 signs and all 12 months. Which means everyone is affected by it, yet Capricorns and Sagittarians are the only people and or signs getting news and blog attention from Time magazine and The Washington Post.

Most people believe in the sign they have grown to know and love has not or cannot be changed whether it’s just from 2009 and on or if the 12 zodiac signs and dates change within themselves.

It’s going to take more than a guy named Parke Kunkle and his board members of the Minnesota Planetarium

Society to change the minds of millions of people, and get them to honor that there is a new zodiac sign.

Why is man representing a zodiac sign.

Why not a woman?

Why not Women are a woman? zodiac sign Women are worthy; there zodiac sign are women who worthy; there are have achieved women who have a high position in life. Maybe achieved a high a man and position in life. woman, side by side with both their hands on the snake dividing it.

Something that shows Equality between both men and woman and what they can accomplish in life.

Ophiuchus’s picture and representation is a little different than the other signs, like the zodiac sign Cancer is represented by a crab, Leo’s belong to the Lion and Libra’s has the scales. The new sign represents by a man wrestling a serpent, dividing a snake’s body into two parts.

Some might say it’s not up to us to decide what the zodiac sign means and looks like, yet some guy can come in and tell the world that there is a whole new sign and our signs changed. Next they’ll be telling us there’s a new month.

What was your favorite commercial from the Super Bowl?

Compiled by Stephan Starnes and Daniel Newport. Photos by Carlo Dela Cruz

“I liked the Doritos, with the pug.”

Brianda Dominguee, 18 Undecided

“I liked the Eminem car commercial’.”

Claire Gibson, 19 Physical Theraphy

“The one with Justin Bieber and Ozzy Osbourne.”

Mohammad Zaman, 20 Biology

“Probably the Doritos with the finger sucking.”

Mark McMillen,19 Political Science

Features

4

February 10, 2011

CRC campus brings global culture to students through film Cory Fong Connection Staff In an effort to promote global and cultural awareness, a number of departments have combined forces to present a series of events for students to attend on campus.

Both the Global Studies and Humanities/Social Sciences departments, as well as the Social Responsibility Committee, are showing a number of films as part of the Exploring Global Culture Film Series.

“The purpose is to present films and bring knowledge from outside our community onto campus and expose students to perspectives they may not have access to in their classroom or textbooks,” said Sandra Carter, an English as a Second Language (ESL) and Spanish professor.

Maureen Moore, humanities professor and coordinator of the film series reiterated Carter’s sentiments.“We believe in the idea of students engaging in the life of the campus outside the classroom,” Moore said. “We want to build a community and have a conversation around these issues. That’s what education is all about.”

Carter showed a short film on Jan. 31, portraying the hardships endured by an Indian tribe, the Achuar, indigenous to Ecuador. In recent decades, the tribe has had to combat persistent efforts of an oil company attempting to drill, which had catalyzed environmental issues within the region, Carter explained.

Martin Morales, chair of the political science and global studies department, presented the film “The Motorcycle Diaries,” on Jan. 26, which depicted a pre-revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevara traveling Latin America with his closest friend.

“There’s a moment in every person’s life when a light goes on and it changes the direction of their life,” Morales said. “You get to see that in the movie for him.”

Morales added that is important to understand Guevara’s rise to a revolutionary icon was the result of life experience, education and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.

In conjunction with the Exploring Global Culture Film Series is the OneBook program, also founded by Moore.

“Everybody on campus, in a perfect world, would read the same book,” Moore said. The hope, Moore said, is for students and faculty to facilitate discussion that everyone can participate in.

“We’d all have a common conversation on the themes and topics in the book,” said Moore.

The book selected is “The Latehomecomer” by Kao Kalia Yang. It narrates the struggles of a Hmong family moving from Laos to a refugee camp in Thailand to finally immigrating to the United States and attempting to assimilate to a vastly different culture.

Moore stressed the importance of learning about cultures outside of your typical worldview. Adding that it’s necessary to develop a respect for other cultures rather than a toleration.

Students who aren’t attending the events are missing out on a valuable learning experience, added Morales.

“Expand your horizons,” Morales said. “You’re only going to enhance your experience by incorporating different perspectives.”

>>Upcoming film dates Wednesday, February 23 1:30PM SOC Conference Room Favela Rising Hosted by Maureen Moore

Thursday, March 3 3:00 PM L111 Mexico: The Frozen Revolution by Raymundo Gleyzer

CRC alumni return to teach Unique Pierre-Cody Connection Staff

Former students are back in action as professors here at Cosumnes River College.

They reflect on what it was like attending this college and some of the things they learned and picked up from being here.

Nyenbeku George, a social science professor attended CRC from 1996-2000 and majored in dance and physical therapy.

Coming back to work here at CRC, George has designed two different courses, Introduction to social science and African American Experience.

Attending CRC was like George’s home away from home and his professors were like family. “Patience, sacrifice, dedication, integrity and a positive outlook on life are all elements of a good work ethic.

CRC gave me the first opportunity to use these work ethics in a collegial form.” George said Mark Hunter, an Mathematics and statistics professor here, attended CRC in the fall of 1992 through the spring of 1994 as a Mathematics Major.

While attending CRC, Hunter was very introverted.

He played basketball, studied, and worked two jobs and became a parent during the summer between his first and second years at CRC. While being a student at CRC, the thing Hunter most remembers is having the ability to express opinion as a student and athlete.

Hunter admitted he did not always agree with people, including some of his instructors, but did appreciate being able to offer suggestions without being ridiculed.

“What I was able to grasp was the ability to learn how to study,” Hunter said. “It is so important for students to learn how to play the game, that includes learning how to study and how the instructor wants you to study.”

Hunter left CRC with the ability to work independently which was beneficial when he moved on to the University level, but he is not sure how.

Professors grasped many different things while attending CRC, not just from the professors but from the whole atmosphere of the campus.

Tuesday, April 12 10:30 AM SOC Conference Room Hugo Chavez Hosted by Thomasina Turner

Wednesday, April 27 10:30 Am M 300 Crude Hosted by Steven Coughran

Published poet flows onto rap scene Johny Garcia Connection Staff Twenty-three-year-old hip-hop artist Wardell Davis has always enjoyed writing. As a child, he would write poems and short stories as a way to express himself.

Davis, whose rapper nickname is “Nom”, even had a poem published in the book “Twilight Muses” when he was 12 years old.

The next step in Davis’ musical career was putting his stories to a beat.

“Once I started doing that it just became like clockwork,” Davis said. “Music, it is poetry.”

Listening to the radio, Davis realized he had a knack for writing music.

“I would hear the radio and think, ‘dude I wrote stuff like that when I was twelve,’” Davis said.

However, unlike many artists on the radio, Davis said he would not sacrifice the integrity of his music in order to make money.

“People that make music to sell records, to get ring tones, that’s what I don’t like,” Davis said. “It’s not about the money for me. My goal is to tell artists of every genre, not just rap, but say don’t confine yourself.”

For Davis, the love for music and the feeling he gets from recording tracks are far more important than money.

“I wish I could do that all day. I could literally be in the studio all day,” Davis said. “When I’m in there I feel like an architect. You feel like a star, you feel important.”

One way Davis breaks the stereotypical mold of a rapper is by telling the stories that mainstream artists often avoid, the dark stories that connect to listeners on a deeper level.

“Sometimes I may tell a dark story, but people will say, ‘I’ve felt that low before,’” Davis said. “I try to touch each subject because a person doesn’t always feel positive or negative.”

“Blaq holes,” a song that will be on Davis’ newest album and is already on YouTube, achieves this goal by describing the daily pressures that people are forced to deal with. By describing troubles in his own life, Davis is able to connect with many of his listeners who are experiencing similar pressures.

Although some of his methods may be labeled as unconventional, Davis believes he is at the forefront of a new genre, with a completely new way of thinking.

“At the end, when it’s all over, people can say, ‘man, the guy, he touched it. He hit it right on the nail,’” Davis said.

Features

February 10, 2011

5

Civil War re-creation kicks off Black History Month Varsha Narayan Connection Staff In honor of Black History Month, Cosumnes River College reestablishes the days of an era long ago, when African American soldiers contributed to the northern efforts to defeat the south. A group of re-enactors gathered outside the college center on February 1 dressed in Civil War era clothing and showcased various artifacts from the war. “We do events all over Northern California but this is our first time at this college,” said reenactor Jeff Polover. They showcased black inventors and their inventions, while showing why they were so significant.

Unique Pierre-Cody | The Connection

Actors show Cosumnes River College students what they used to make it through the Civil War on Feb.1

Unique Pierre-Cody | The Connection Re-enactors of the Civil War, with their great clothes and amazing acting, caught students’ attention on Feb. 1

Sports

6

February 10, 2011

Coach Schroeder brings experience to CRC Daniel Newport Connection Staff Kristy Schroeder has been playing competitive softball ever since she was 12-years-old.

Cosumnes River College’s new softball coach Schroeder, pronounced “ShRAY-der,” played softball in high school, was shortstop on University of California Los Angeles’ softball team, where she helped lead the Bruins to four consecutive College World Series appearances.

She also was a four time All-Pac 10 player, according to University of California Santa Barbara’s profile of her career.

Although Schroeder loves athletics in general, she especially loves softball because she’s been playing it for so long.

“It’s just a part of me I guess,” Schroeder said. “I would have to say it’s a part of my identity.”

After her stellar playing career she continued her success as a coach.

Schroeder coached at Stanford and UCSB, consulted the University of the Pacific’s women’s volleyball team, consulted with high school players in the Stockton area and even coached UOP’s men’s tennis team for one semester.

In 2004 she led her UCSB softball team to their first ever NCAA tournament experience, according to UCSB’s player bio.

With a laundry list of experience like that, it is obvious why, “Schroeder has

demonstrated an ability to guide programs from mediocrity to national prominence,” according to UCSB’s online profile about her.

Now she is entering her second semester as CRC’s softball coach.

In addition to coaching, Schroeder also teaches physical education classes at CRC, some of which are Cardio Kickboxing and Health.

Morgan Pease, a 19-year-old art major, said she really liked having Schroeder as a teacher last semester because she pushed the students to do better.

“As a teacher, she’s fun, upbeat and made sure you were doing things correctly in class,” Pease said. “I really liked having her as a teacher.”

Schroeder said she is looking forward to coaching the season, and said that the softball team has some real “top quality” players.

Despite some setbacks with player health and some fluctuating numbers on her team, she feels she has a good core group of players.

And with the coaching philosophy that got her through the past, this obstacle shouldn’t prove to be a problem for Schroeder now.

Coach Schroeder’s philosophy is about focusing on the things that you can control, and she is really big on the fundamentals of the game.

She feels if they can perform both the fundamentals of the game and focus on the things they can control then the team will be successful.

Carlo Dela Cruz | The Connection

Kristy Schroeder, CRC’s new women’s softball head coach, at the season opener against Solano College on Feb. 5.

Women’s Softball Opponent San Jose City College Stars & Stripes Tournament Fresno / San Mateo Ohlone Diablo Valley College

Location

Date

Time

San Jose Visalia Fresno CRC CRC

2/12 2/18 2/26 3/5 3/10

12 p.m.

TBA 10:30 a.m. / 12:30 p.m.

12 p.m.

12 p.m.

Lady Hawks soar over competition at home

Johny Garcia | The Connection

Sophomore Morgan Hayes (4) hits a baseline drive and makes it to first base during the first game of the season on Feb. 5.

Carlo Dela Cruz Connection Staff The first game for the Cosumnes River College softball team landed them a very close game against the Solano County Lady Falcons on Saturday.

With new Head Coach Kristy Schroeder, the Lady Hawks were able to overcome the pressure at home.

CRC ended the game with a last minute point to win 2-1 in their season premiere.

“The team played really hard and did the best to avert any opportunities from them,” Schroeder said. “Solano worked hard though to step up their game even if we had bases loaded.”

The first inning had Solano putting pressure on

CRC’s defense, which eventually earned the visiting team a run and plenty of momentum.

However, during the Hawks’ first chance to bat, catcher Kelsey McCarthy was able to turn the game’s overall momentum around by hitting a home run.

“The home run made us pumped and motivated for the rest of the game,” said freshman second baseman Gina Luiz.

The following innings were filled with many opportunities for both teams to score. However, the pitching and catching of both teams would prevent any points to be scored.

In the fourth and fifth innings CRC pitcher Alejandrina Rafael kept the pres-

sure on the Falcons. And, though she forced Solano to resort to bunting, the Falcons remained inneffective.

“Alejandrina pitched a superb game and came through when we really needed her,” Schroeder said.

Rafael said the long training is what led to her “superb game” against Solano County.

“We practiced before the seasons for a very long time so now playing with great synergy, it feels amazing,” Rafael said. “In the future I hope to maintain a high amount of energy .”

In the fifth and sixth innings each team came close to getting a run, but failed to do so.

It wasn’t until the final inning that a team would

break the tied game.

It was up to CRC to either score a run and win the game, or battle Solano in an extra inning of play.

The first to bat for CRC in the seventh inning, Rebecka Schnieder, would narrowly slide to second base.

Then, after a base line drive by a teammate, she would rush home to give the Lady Hawks a win.

Coach Schroeder said overall it was CRC’s ability to stop “any mishaps from occuring” that led to the win.

“If the energy stays up and we focus on what we can control, we can have a consistent ball (game) and give ourselves a chance in the next games,” Schroeder said.

Johny Garcia | The Connection

Sophomore Alejandrina Garcia (1) keeps Solano County from scoring in the final inning.

February 10, 2011

Sports

7

Men’s basketball falls short from Santa Rosa Johny Garcia Connection Staff

The Cosumnes River College men’s basketball team put on a close game against Santa Rosa Junior College at home on Friday. And although CRC fought until the final minute of the game, they were unable to complete their comeback and lost with a final score of 71-64.

One of the main downfalls of the Hawks was their game play during the first half, said head coach James Giacomazzi.

“Well, we don’t even really talk wins and losses. What we talk about is how we played,” Giacomazzi said. “The fact that we didn’t really play or show up in the first half was a major concern.”

During the first half of the game SRJC made few mistakes and repeatedly scored close range shots, specifically Santa Rosa center Henry Gill.

Henry Gill was able to get past CRC’s defense multiple times within the first half, landing both layups and dunks for his team.

However, before halftime, CRC’s forward Tony Gill was able to start the comeback that would continue into the second half.

CRC’s Tony Gill blocked Henry Gill, landed multiple layups, drew some fouls from Santa Rosa and even sinked some 3-pointers for his team.

As time ran down in the first half, SRJC’s guard Sama Taku beat the buzzer by landing what was nearly a half-court shot and sent the game into halftime 49-28.

CRC’s sophomore guard Mike Elliott said his team realized that SRJC was “no joke” at haftime. Fellow teammate freshman guard Kerrick Metoyer agreed that halftime brought changes.

“Halftime we just made adjustments,” Metoyer said. “We told everybody we need to step up and win this game.”

CRC’s Tony Gill led the comeback

Vinita Singh | The Connection

Fred Mobley (31) a freshaman forward dribbles to the paint to set up for a easy layup agaisnt Santa Rosa on Feb. 4 after halftime.

Within a minute he grabbed multiple rebounds and even landed a couple of 3-pointers for his team.

As the end of the game grew closer, CRC gained momentum by landing two

slam dunks in a row.

Unfortunately, a missed rebound during the last minute of the game allowed SRJC to guarantee their win.

Although CRC fans voiced their displeasure for the referees’ calls, CRC

forward J.J. Mina didn’t blame the loss on the game’s questionable calls.

“A few calls didn’t go our way but we should still play harder,” Mina said.

“Defense, that’s the thing that was really killing us. Defense.”

Dr. King’s dream not met in sports world Vinita Singh Connection Staff Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream that one day men would not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. The United States has gone through dramatic changes since King walked the streets of the United States.

However, after looking at statistics in a survey released by ESPN in January regarding race in sports, there are clearly still large differences in the sports world that revolve around one’s race as opposed to the content of one’s character.

Students at Cosumnes River College were asked about their thoughts toward the differences stated in the survey.

Josh Mireles, an 18-year-old sports management major, said there are physical differences among races and that the physical differences may explain why only 17 percent of quarterbacks in the National Football League are African American.

“Im not a racist, but I believe people go for the position they are qualified for,” Mireles said. “For example, African Americans have great abilities in speed so they go for positions that will challenge their speed.”

However, students and staff members felt that although there is currently only one African American who is the majority owner of a professional men’s sports team, the difference can be explained in other ways besides race.

Race doesn’t matter, “It depends on whoever can afford to buy the team,” said Jno Shular, the CRC baseball team’s pitching coach.

Michael Solari, a 19-year-old business major and member of the CRC men’s

tennis team, agreed with Shular.

“I’m not against any race, but if they can’t pay for it then they are obviously not qualified,” Solari said.

Jasmine Morales, a 24-year-old music production major who saw and participated in the ESPN survey, said some ownership differences are due to different work ethics, not different races.

“They mentioned that there were five (minority) CEO’s in the sports world out of 92 teams,” Morales said. “That is sort of a low number, but in my opinion those who have those positions deserve it because they got there with their skills and achievements.”

Students had mixed feelings about the NFL’s Rooney Rule.

The Rooney Rule, established by the NFL in 2002, requires an NFL team to interview at least one minority coach when it is searching for a new head coach or assistant coach.

Teandre Cooksie, a 20-year-old social science major, said, “The rule helps, but you can still see the issue.”

Other students said the Rooney Rule is a bit outdated.

“The Rooney Rule is a good rule, but I have to say it is sort of ridiculous that we should have to make a rule of that sort,” said Domanique Coronado, an 18-yearold early childhood development major.

“It should just be a given.”

Overall, students agreed that King’s dream has not been reached, and that the survey released by ESPN clearly shows this.

“Although we are getting better at equality we should stop procrastinating and view and treat others how you want to be treated,” Morales said. “There are still racial differences.”

BOOKBYTE.COM/CRC

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8

News

February 10, 2011

Scholarship: winners express Budget: Chancellor’s office excitement over prize addresses proposed budget Continued from page 1

on what classes I can get into.”

Despite the difficulties, enrollment is high.

“These enrollment reports are confirming what college leaders have been saying from the beginning,” stated Jack Scott, Community Colleges Chancellor.

“The demand for community college education and training is surging.”

Scott touched on the issue of a required higher education in today’s workforce.

According to Scott, displaced workers look to community colleges to help get back into

the job market. But with more students being turned away, the possibility of them getting back into the workforce decreases.

Based off of past cuts to the budget, the budget proposal may further limit students in their educational pursuits.

“At minimum, it will most likely take longer for students to complete their education programs,” said Associate Vice Chancellor of Communications and Research Susie Williams in an e-mail regarding the budget proposal.

Speech: divided government may inhibit domestic progress Continued from page 1

Adam Hally | The Connection

Director of College Advancement Kenneth Cooper congratulates a winner during the Textbook Scholarship Drawing in the Fountain Quad, on Feb. 3.

Continued from page 1

semester, students that are enrolled in at least nine units and are present at the event have a chance to win.

Even though some students have to go to work, or have to hurry to their next class, the amount of participates has gone up each year from 899 entries in fall 2006 to 1,030 entries in spring 2011.

“There have been a couple semesters where it’s been a hard sell and I finally got the students to sign-up for it and their name was drawn and they won,” said Lynn Demirer, administrative assistant of the Office of College Advancement.

A long line formed around the fountain area as students had a chance to enjoy free hot dogs and soda as they waited for last minute entries while they listened to music coming from the speakers.

Faculty and students in the audience clapped their hands while each of the winners came on stage to receive their prize and have their picture taken.

Alex Greene, 21-year-old biological psychology major expressed his feelings

towards his win.

“This was my first time putting my name in the box and I was very excited that my name was called,” Greene said. “I’m really appreciative that CRC gave out this scholarship.”

Some students can agree that with budget cuts and textbooks increase it’s been hard trying to continue their education.

“Yes, with this economy its already difficult getting classes,” said 20-year-old winner Chai Saetern, a business entrepreneurship major. “BOG help a little bit but even that it’s not enough for books because they’re really expensive when you use and reuse them.”

Cooper also wanted to thank everyone that supports the annual fund because it’s through the giving that occurs on this campus and community that CRC is able to offer this textbook scholarship.

The foundation board has said that as long as they’re around they’re going to continue to support and grow this studentopportunity.

science Professor, Beth Huffman via e-mail interview.

She agreed with the President in regards to a need to remain competitive through research, development and technological innovation.

“I think that it was a very good speech, especially given the state of things right now,” Huffman said.

Christine Garcia, a 22-year-old music major, agreed with the below-average assessment, and his stated approach to the nation’s situation and his concept of offering solutions.

Garcia suggests that we eliminate the debt by reducing spending. This coincides with the President’s suggestion of freezing the annual domestic spending for the next five years.

Kristen Butler, a 30-year-old photography major expressed a similar sentiment.

“Lowering taxes is a good thing,” Butler said. “If the government didn’t take so much money, things would balance out.”

Butler also agreed the American peo-

ple need to further educate themselves.

However, Obama needs to spend more time fixing the nation and less time on television, she said.

“I think that he is always on television all the time being pretty,” Butler said.

“There are a lot of things that need to be fixed in our government and our government is taking our money instead of fixing the problems.”

Professor Huffman assessed the state of affairs differently.

“We are facing a divided government,” Huffman said. “There is very little evidence of bipartisanship, or ‘cooperation.’”

Some bipartisan progress has already been seen concerning ending earmarks and reforming the tax code, Huffman stated.

However, she believes it will not be enough.

“Even if the Democrats and Republicans could agree on major policies, such as investing in infrastructure, the problems with the budget deficit and national debt limit the ability of the government to take action,” Huffman said.

Financial: available options may assist students in need Continued from page 1

are offered at Cosumnes River College you just have to find the one for you.

Cal Grant entitlement awards can be used for tuition and fees at public and private colleges, which helps towards lowincome students with living allowance and help pay for training cost at occupational or career schools. There are also Cal Grant competitive awards A and B for students with a minimum 2.0 and 3.0 GPA depending on the program you qualify for, according to the California Student Aid Commission.

Students entering college who have completed rigorous high school curriculum with at least two advanced placement courses with scores of three or higher, on the College Board Exams are entitled to the Federal Pell Grant. The award is up to $750 for year one and up to $1,300 for year two students respectively.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants is limited funds that are awarded by the school. Awards for FSEOG, offered to low-income students only, range from $100 to $600 depending on availability of funds.

You can also earn money or pay back a student loans through volunteer time in local, state, or federal government aid programs with AmeriCorps.

Federal Work-Study provides jobs on and off campus to undergraduate and graduate students who are paid an hourly rate at minimum wage or above.

If you don’t receive enough money to pay for college there is also student loans that have to be paid back. “So go for the Grants and scholarships,” said Shareena Velasqez student financial aid assistant.

“Our school is on a first come first serve basis,” said Alice Kwong, financial aid supervisor, “Since it’s free, make it a point to apply as early as possible.”

“Don’t get discouraged as it can be a complicated process,” said Kathy F.Degn EOPS & coordinator at CRC Student Support Center. “Be patient and persistently consistent. Don’t give up.”

Apply early as you can with deadline being March 2nd. More information can be found on the campus website or at the Financial Aid Office in the library building in room l-107.

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