The Connection Vol. 60 Issue 5 11/15/2012 by The Connection

Opinion

Features

Sports

Disney's purchase of "Star Wars" is not the end of the franchise. The films will pull through.

Students turn tables on professors: Popular website lets students grade professors. >>Learn more on page 7

Men's basketball is taking the court. Young but talented group looks to start the season off right.

>>Hear our writer's reasoning, page 3

Volume 58,Issue Issue Volume 60, 5 1 Volume 58,Issue Issue5 1 Volume 60,

>>Hear their expectations, page 4

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November 15, 2012 November 15, 2012

Programs on campus aid veterans adjusting to college life Mozes Zarate mzarate.connect@gmail

Britni Alford | The Connection

Members from Post 521 of American Legion were one of the many who were honored in the Elk Grove Veteran's Day Parade on Nov. 11. American Legion works to unite veterans and provide support for families of veterans.

California “comes to its senses” San Diego Community College Chancellor Constance Carroll says passage of Proposition 30 marks a turning point Stephan Starnes sstarnes.connect@gmail With Proposition 30 being passed by voters in the election, California community colleges will be able to avoid $338 million in budget cuts and will gain $210 million in revenue. Voters said “Yes” to increasing taxes on individuals who earn an annual income of more than $250,000 for seven years, as well as increasing sales tax for four years by one quarter of a penny starting on Jan. 1. “Cosumnes River College and the Los Rios District are grateful to those who voted yes on Proposition 30,” said CRC President Dr. Deborah Travis. “While we are celebrating its passage, we also understand that many challenges lie ahead and we will need to rebuild the student access that’s been lost over the last few years. “However, I am confident we will face those challenges together and the college, its students and the community will begin to see

Campus crime occurring less; still affecting students Josh Slowiczek jslowiczek.connect@gmail Based solely on campus appearance and location, one might not expect that

the benefits of Prop 30’s passage soon.” In a teleconference on Nov. 7, California Community Colleges Chancellor Brice Harris said that California schools will be able to add 20,000 students statewide. Harris said that Proposition 30 "gets the state’s commitment to higher education back on track,” and “makes good on funding the state has deferred.” Harris also noted that Proposition 30 passing will not restore schools to “pre-recession” level. Cosumnes River College Dean of humanities and social sciences Ginny McReynolds said that her department was faced with cutting over 25 classes over the next year if Proposition 30 had failed. McReynolds said that cuts to courses would not occur, and “there could be some addition, but it could stay flat.” “Our goal is to work with the district to see what their plans are,” McReynolds said, adding that the district is currently assessing the proposition’s passage. She described Los Rios as a “smart and frugal district.” McReynolds has served at CRC for the past four years. She previously worked at Sacramento City College and said she has never seen education is such bad shape. “For me, what the relief is, is that people understand the importance of education, the importance of community college education,” McReynolds said. Communications, Visual and Performing Arts Dean Torence

students enrolled here at Cosumnes River College have been subject to property damage, harassment and grand theft. These crimes, while sporadic in nature, are nothing new to the Los Rios district and on Sept. 22, the Los Rios District Police Department notified students that it had published its annual Clery Report. Originally known as the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, the Annual Clery Report “requires colleges and universities to publish an annual report every year by Oct. 1st that contains three years’ worth of campus crime statistics and certain security police statements,” according to the LRDPD notification.

The Huffington Post cited a prediction that 88 percent of the Afghanistan and Iraq war veterans that have returned home and begun attending college in the United States will drop out by next summer. Peggy Ursin, Cosumnes River College Outreach Specialist at admissions and records, clarified that it is a tough calculation to make for our campus. “The college knows what veterans are enrolled who are taking advantage of educational benefits,” Ursin said. “But we have never had a handle on how many veterans are going to school here because some of them >>See Veternas' Center, Page 2

Obama reelection no surprise to students Brittany Patrick bpatrick.connect@gmail

In comparison with the ten other campuses and centers CRC ranks second for criminal activity. However within the past three years the campus has seen a decrease in all forms of criminal offenses and arrests with the exception of drug related instances, where the average number has held at 17 violations annually for the last two years according to the Clery Report. While decreasing in frequency the severity of these crimes have not followed suit. On Oct. 12 an unidentified group of

Of the Cosumnes River College students interviewed many were “not surprised” by President Barack Obama’s re-election over Republican candidate Mitt Romney. President Obama won the Electoral College 332 votes to Romney’s 206, as well as the popular vote by about 4.35 million votes. The race was predicted to be a close one, but the president appeared to have won by a landslide. Sacramento County contributed to the president’s re-election; 57 percent of the population darkened the bubble next to his name, according to the New York Times. In a previous poll, conducted by the Connection, CRC students’ votes lay with Obama 3-1, but in a sample done the day after the election the preferences between the two candidates were fifty-fifty. “I wasn’t surprised, I had a very strong feeling that he (Obama) was going to win,” said Lauren Mulvany,

>>See Clery, Page 2

>>See Romney supporters, Page 2

>>See Proposition, Page 2

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Clery: Petty theft at CRC No further information suspects snuck into the CRC was available on the matter but parking structure, currently in Kristie West, the CRC public inthe process of development, and formation officer, commented stole up to $20,000 worth of via email on the subject going high-capacity power cable, ac- on to say that “professors are in charge of their classroom and cording to a police report. While the “acquisition” of if they suspect anything or if a copper on such a scale is note- student comes to them with a worthy, most students are af- complaint of bullying, they are fected in a much more direct encouraged to report it.” A daily crime log for all manner when crime occurs. Petty Theft, or theft under campuses and centers is available on the LRDPD website. For $950, is nothing new to CRC. On Sept. 28 a student’s students who might like to learn backpack was taken from the more about a criminal activCRC library and charges were ity on campus, the California placed on their debit and credit Public Records Act “requires cards, according to a police re- the District Colleges to make public records available upon port. request for inLast year spection,” acZamir Omaid, cording to the a 21-year-old “I kept walking back Los Rios disbroadcast jour- and forth trying to trict website. nalism major, believe it didn’t get The website had his bike also goes on stolen from stolen, like it would to state that in front of the appear somehow.” “insp ections campus theater. performed “I didn’t check until biZamir Omaid during norbusiness ology class at 9 Broadcast Journalism mal hours are free p.m. and then Major of charge.” it was just gone,” C a p t . said Omaid, John McPeek, the CRC interim who remembers the night clearly. “I kept walking back and police chief is developing a plan forth trying to believe it didn’t to have a station set up in the get stolen, like it would appear lobby of the police station that will be open to those who wish somehow.” The effect of crime on stu- to view the Clery Report and dents does not limit itself to fi- public records, according to an email from West. nancial repercussions. If you have been subject or A mother of a student contacted the LRDPD on Sept. 28 witness to a crime and wish to wishing to file a report “re- file a report you may contact garding females threatening the CRC station at (916) – 691 her daughter on campus and – 7393. To do so in person the through twitter,” according to a front counter hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. police report. Continued from page 1

Editors

Editor in Chief: Zach Hannigan News Editor: Stephan Starnes Features Editor: Ashley Boucher Sports Editor: Zach Hannigan Opinion Editor: Alex Mosqueda Online Editor: Stephan Starnes Production Manager: Brittany Patrick Faculty Adviser: Rubina Gulati

Staff

The Connection Takara Campbell, Emanuel Espinoza, Kevin Frodahl, Mary Garcia, Latisha Gibson, Victor Macias, Osay Ogbebor, Jonathan Rich, Simon, Mozes Zarate Editorial Assistants: Britni Alford, Cody Durham, Ariel Hevesi, Scott Redmond, Josh Slowiczek

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 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 the first and last name of the author and a phone number. They must be 200 words or less and may be edited for length, clarity or taste. The Connection Cosumnes River College 8401 Center Parkway Sacramento, CA 95823

Telephone: (916) 691-7471 Fax: (916) 691-7181 Website: www.thecrcconnection.com E-mail: connect@crc.losrios.edu

It is the duty of The Connection to report all news with the highest accuracy, brevity and clarity as possible. All feedback regarding stories and photos should be sent to connection.crc@gmail.com

Proposition: “small price to pay” Continued from page 1

economy.” Powell said it is hard to estiPowell said that school officials were “more invested in building mate how many cuts his departscenarios if it [Proposition 30] ment was facing because it had more performance and lab classdidn’t pass.” Powell said that he stayed es, and it was hard to find equivaup until midnight watching elec- lents. He said it wouldn’t have tion coverage, and was hopeful been as large as the humanities that Proposition 30 would pass. and social science department, When he was watching, Proposi- as communications isn’t as large tion 30 was hovering around 48 a department. Powell said the only drawpercent “Yes” votes. The next morning, Powell back he could think of is that awoke to a text message saying the quarter of a penny sales tax that Proposition 30 passed, and increase would affect everyone, called it “a good precedent for and those with lower incomes would be affected disproportionCalifornia.” “I was very grateful to Cali- ately. “It’s a small price to pay for fornia and to voters for prioritizing,” Powell said. “An investment higher education,” he said of the in students is an investment in “very small drawback.” History professor and CRC ourselves, our future and our

campus President of the Los Rios College Federation of Teachers Jason Newman was worried that

“An investment in students is an investment in ourselves, our future and our economy.” Torence Powell Dean, CVPA the proposition would not pass. “The efforts of students in particular in campaigning pushed it over the edge into victory,” Newman said.

Romney supporters disappointed Continued from page 1

an 18-year-old English major. “Forty-seven percent of America was neglected by Romney.” Mulvany said that Romney’s stance on abortion was a key factor as to why she voted for Obama. “It’s not like I am for abortion, but health is totally personal and should not be brought into politics,” Mulvany said. Two students in favor of Obama’s re-election stated hopes for a better economy and financial aid in school as the main reasons they supported the president. “I voted for Obama,” said Nick Quiro, 21, a broadcasting major. “I’m hoping he starts

bringing the economy back up, like he said he is.” Justin Barrels, 18, a business major, said he expects more jobs, more financial aid for college students and for education to be “pushed up” in priority for the next four years. The Romney supporting students also expressed a lack of surprise in regards to Obama’s victory. “I was indifferent, I already knew Obama was going to win.” said Levi Brown, a 20-year-old pharmacy technician major at Asher College. “I watched Obama fail for the past four years and triple the debt that the other presidents made,” Brown said. “I expect the worst

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economic downturn since the great depression.” Samantha Whitt, a 19-yearold undecided major, appeared slightly more optimistic about the outcome of the election. “I’m honestly not surprised people wanted to give him (Obama) one more chance,” Whitt said. She expects these next four years to be like the last and that the issues the country is facing will stay the same. While some are pessimistic about the outcome of the election, others are looking forward to what the next four years will bring. “I was stoked, so stoked,” said Quiro, over Obama’s victory.

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Opinion | November 15, 2012

EDITORIAL

Voters establish new social norms in election Regardless of one’s feelings towards the outcome of the U.S. presidential election, the success of pro-marijuana and pro same-sex marriage ballot initiatives show that Americans today are becoming more progressive. This election proved that when equipped with the proper forward-moving mentality, Americans have the ability to progress the nation. With a 54 percent and 55 percent majority, Colorado and Washington voters approved recreational use of marijuana, reported by NBC News. Although both face legal ramification with the federal government since the possession of marijuana is still a federal crime. Despite the legal guidelines of the national government, the approval of the legalization of marijuana shows that the people of Washington and Colorado no longer see marijuana in the negative light it once had. Since the late 90s, nearly 32 states have held votes on samesex marriage and it has been opposed every time, according to the Huffington Post. Addressing this matter in a press release over AT A GLANCE the summer, Brian Brown, presiThe Issue: Five states make dent of the National Organization landmark laws in regards for Marriage said, “The American to same-sex marriage and people know in their heart what marriage is, and they have exmarijuana. pressed that in the form of over 70 Our View: Voters celebrate million votes cast in 32 consecutive state elections to preserve change and analyze marriage as the union of one man initiatives for the and one woman.” betterment of the people. It would be interesting to Agree? Disagree? hear how Brown would approach Send comments to the issue now after three states, connect@crc.losrios.edu Washington, Maine and Maryland, legalized same-sex marriage in this election. Although joining the likes of New York and Iowa, what makes these initiatives truly victorious is the fact it is the first time marriage equality has been legalized via popular vote. Despite opponents like Brown, other events during the election showed that an individual’s sexual orientation is no longer an issue with many Americans. Along with three states settling the status of marriage, Wisconsin voted in Tammy Baldwin, the state’s first openly-gay senator. While the state continues to debate over marriage,the people of Minnesota voted down Amendment 1, a constitutional amendment that would have defined the union of marriage as solely being between a man and a woman. Thus, becoming the first state in the country voting against such an amendment. As great as these victories are, exactly how does our state of California fit in? Even if the state was silent about such popular issues, there was a small landmark victory for the people with the passing of Proposition 30. As stated in the San Francisco Chronicle, Californians haven’t voted in favor of a tax hike since Proposition 13 in 1978. So with the approval for Proposition 30 it shows we are confident in our current leaders in office, and that they are sure to put the additional revenue to a good purpose. And that education is something that is sacred in this state, so with previous cuts to the educational budget, we finally stated enough was enough. There is much wonder exactly how such an open-minded state like California can keep dragging its feet in moving forward with particular political topics, but with the achievement of Proposition 30 it shows that it’s not too far behind. Many Americans are opposed to or uncomfortable using the term “progressive,” but when seen through a different perspective it has nothing to do with whether a person leans left or right. The election on Nov. 6 proved that U.S. citizens in any state are capable of extended efforts to bring pressing issues to statewide and national attention. To make a stance on the definition of marriage, the legalization of marijuana, increase taxes in order to deflect from cutting from the educational budget, shows that we are fully capable of contesting policies we find to be unjust. Whether people agree on “progressive” or not, to be able to live in a democratic country where the citizens are capable of change is what truly makes the United States great.

CORRECTION: The Nov. 1 Hawk Talk incorrectly attributed a comment to Colleen Crews. The student pictured was 21-year-old communications major Dominique Bouza.

Scan the QR Code with your smartphone to hear CRC students discuss what three things they'd take with them during a hurricane evacuation.

The Disney empire strikes back By Scott Redmond sredmond.connect@gmail A long time ago in a galaxy not so far away a man named George Lucas created a little movie called "Star Wars," which went on to spawn an expansive universe and franchise. You might have heard about it. In the same galaxy an even longer time before, there was another man by the name of Walt Disney that started a little park called Disneyland and a media empire that is a dominating force in the entertainment world. What could happen if those two billion dollar entities were to come together in a financially backed marriage? Well we’re poised to find out just that. In news that seemed to surprise many, Lucas sold Lucasfilms, the studio behind Star Wars and other projects, to Disney for $4.05 billion, according to an article from the Hollywood Reporter. With this deal comes news that Star Wars Episode Seven through Nine will be produced and distributed by Disney with goals to release Star Wars movies every two to three years. On the day this was announced, to paraphrase the great Obi Wan Kenobi, many could feel a great disturbance “as if millions of voices suddenly cried out in terror.” Words have been thrown around by fans--most of them relating to despair and outrage at the idea of further movies that might deter from the extended universe that grew out of the movies. Death of the franchise was a favorite one used by many around the net. After the release of the original trilogy of movies the world of Star Wars continued. Novels, comics

and various games were included in this extended universe. I’m one of those who loved just about everything Star Wars that came out. I have shelves full of the novels that have told the continuing stories of Luke, Han and Leia and even various offspring and other characters. I’ve read many of them cover to cover repeatedly and would do so again in a heartbeat. I’ll admit that there were many nights I often wished those books could be turned into movies. Yet if Disney does not go that route and choses to do something else based off the treatments for a new trilogy they got from Lucas in the deal, I won’t lose any sleep. Would I prefer to see the extended universe adventures I know and love continue? Of course, but just because Disney is making a new trilogy does not change the extended universe’s place in my heart and mind. I don’t see the franchise dying because of some new movies that are made by Disney. If the franchise could survive the prequel trilogy and the whining of Anakin Skywalker and the walking abomination called Jar Jar Binks, it can survive Disney having a hand in the movies. Will this truly turn out to be the worst decision that could be made when it comes to Star Wars? Perhaps, but until things move further ahead we’ll never know. If Disney could purchase Marvel and stay true to the core of Marvel’s properties and chose Joss Whedon to bring to light a billion dollar grossing Avengers movie, there is still hope for Star Wars. May the force be with us. We’re going to need it.

Letters to the Editor RE: “The Cheap Seats” by Zach Hannigan Issue date: Oct. 4 Dear Editor, As a person who follows sports, I could not help but feel dismay when I learned that the NHL had undergone a lockout. Needless to say, it is sad that other sports leagues have locked out their players for a ridiculous amount of money. Your article to why community college athletics deserve attention has given me an opportunity to see sports on another level. Being raised with the television set to professional league sports, I never witnessed the excitement college sports brought. Thanks to your article, I am happy to announce that the television is now set to record college sports games. I am amazed with the performances these young athletes bring to our community. While the athletes on television show off their skills, the Cosumnes River College athletes have skills of their own and are not far from making their way to fame. Not only have these athletes amazed me, but everyone in my family can’t help but watch these games. It brings me much joy to see everyone in the family coming together to bond over these games. Although I eagerly anticipated the start of the NBA season, my desire to watch community college sports have greatly

rose. Thanks to the Cosumnes River College athletes, we will never have to worry about another lockout again. The athletes have my attention and support all the way! -Priyanka Parmar, 20 Biochemistry RE: “CRC students take a stand in presidential election” by Brittany Patrick Issue date: Nov. 1 Dear Editor, This letter is a response to the article, "CRC students take a stand in presidential election" by Brittany Patrick. I felt it was really cool to get a look on how my fellow students feel about the presidential election. Never have I seen so many people 50/50 on a presidential election, especially in California. It makes me happy and relieved that people are not only talking about who they would vote for, but actually voting. The CRC Connection did a good job obtaining great information from fellow students and I was very happy about the outcome of the article. Keep up the good work! -Rob Loa, 23 Communications

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Sports

‘Brothers’ make basketball their lifestyle By Ariel Hevesi ahevesi.connect@gmail

Straight out of the gym doors from basketball practice, returning Cosumnes River College men’s basketball player Shauwn Brooks stands both proud and humble as he takes on the leadership role as one of the two returning players of the 2012-2013 team. “We want to win and prove a lot of people wrong,” Brooks said. This year features a group of young and talented athletes who plan to take on a whole new meaning of the word speed. “We’re all unified, we’re all on the same page and we all want to win,” Brooks said. Although they are a team of eager players, they have big shoes to fill after last year’s wicked season in which they finished fourth in the Big 8 Conference and advancing to the sweet sixteen. With only two returning players, Brooks and Orion Kidd, the upcoming season poses complete unpredictability with a roster of unfamiliar faces.

Lead assistant coach Nicholas Podesta critical this season. expressed his excitement towards the enThere needs to be a lot of help-side on tirely new team. the defensive team, with five guys defend“It’s a good mix of kids we recruited as ing the ball, Podesta said. freshmen and kids who transferred from Head coach James Giacomazzi also reother schools,” Podesta said. iterated the importance of aggression and Returning player Orion Kidd also proper execution. shared his enthusiasm “We need to for the upcoming season. eliminate dribble “I’ve never been on a “Every single player brings penetration and team that clicks like this something that makes the force teams to beat one does,” Kidd said as us from outside,” he described the daily team better.” Giacomazzi said. jokes and laughter in Regardless of the locker room. “We’re the team’s smaller —Nicholas Podesta a bunch of goofs,” he size, they pose a Assistant Coach force to be reckoned chuckled. All jokes aside, Podwith. esta predicts a competi“We’re only as tive season this year as he emphasized the strong as our weakest link,” Kidd said as teams up-tempo and athletic style. he emphasized the importance of staying “Every single player brings something healthy outside the court. “Your whole lifethat makes the team better,” Podesta said. style has to be basketball.” In order to bring home the win “we need Both coaches and team players are to embrace the philosophy of playing to- ready and anxious to start competing. gether.” The team plans to “come out like a Team defense and rebounding will be pack of wolves” and “go undefeated,” Kidd

said. The fans should expect to see the team play hard every single night and be entertained by coach Giacomazzi screaming his head off, Kidd said with a laugh. “He’s much more than a basketball coach, he’s a good person outside of the court,” Kidd said. When the team breaks the huddle they always end on the word “family” because it’s such a close knit group of players. “We’re all like brothers,” Kidd said. It’s clear the team has a strong work ethic and a winning mindset that will bring home the points. “If we see a big mountain, we think how we’re going to prepare to climb over it,” Kidd said. In order to progress as a mature team, there needs to be consistency among players, dedication and hard work, said Brooks. Ultimately “I want to start this season off on a good note and really make this school a winning college,” Brooks said.

Women’s soccer finishes season with disappointing loss By Emanuel Espinoza eespinoza.connect@gmail Cosumnes River College went head-to-head with the Santa Rosa Bear Cubs on the frigid night of Nov. 8, marking the last women’s soccer game of the season. The game was tied 0-0 for the majority of the first half. Both CRC and Santa Rosa struggled to mount any offense throughout the first half of the game. Santa Rosa scored an accidental goal when Hawks’ freshman defender Ashley Briglia tried to pass the ball but inadvertently kicked it into CRC’s net, which resulted in Santa Rosa’s first goal of the match. The first half ended with the Bear Cubs leading the game 1-0. The second half kicked off with Santa Rosa controlling the ball first but CRC gained possession back. The Hawks and the Bear Cubs kept on going back and forth with the ball. Freshman midfielder Jessica DeAnda tripped and fell during a passing attempt to one of her teammates. The ball was then intercepted by Santa Rosa. The Hawks had an attempt on goal, but the ball sailed over the goal post. The goal posts were hit several times, but neither team could cash in on a goal. Freshman goalie Joana Hernandez successfully blocked a couple of goal attempts from Santa Rosa, but the Bear Cubs ended up scoring a goal after their third attempt, resulting in their second goal of the game. Less than nine minutes left in the match, both teams still struggled to make goals. In the final few minutes, Hernandez blocked a goal attempt but was hurt in the process. She was carried out of

Confidence a focal point for volleyball team after another loss By Mozes Zarate mzarate.connect@gmail The volleyball team was unable to claim victory in any of the three sets and lost to Sierra College on Nov. 9. “We’re being tentative at times,” Hawks’ Head Coach Natalie Wells said. “Because we’re a young team, we’re not as confident as we could be in situations where we can take games and close out. If we just come out confident and knowing that we’ve got this skill base, I think that’ll help.” In game one, Sierra College freshman

Mary Garcia | The Connection

Freshman defender Ashley Briglia agonizes after scoring an own goal, giving Santa Rosa a 1-0 lead. The Hawks lost the game but managed to squeak into the playoffs. the game and freshman goalie Oliana De La Torre took her spot for the rest of the game. The game ended in 2-0 Santa Rosa victory. Head coach Cesar Plasencia said that the team could have done a lot better. “It was typical of how we played this season,” Plasencia said. “We just can’t seem to find a goal when we need it.” The players were down by their loss as well, but some

said that they gave it their all out there. “I feel like we gave it our all and 110 percent effort,” said freshman center midfielder Sydney Miller. “We knew it might be our last game together.” Plasencia also said that the team still tried their best out there. “My team always competes,” Plasencia said. “I’m really proud of what they do. They give it their best.”

setter Madisen Macauley took advantage her opponents when she patted the ball of a vulnerable Hawks’ defense with sev- over the net and scored a point. eral point-winning serves. The team also appeared to recognize With Sierra leading 14-5, an extended Sierra’s strongest players in the previous rally that could have changed the momen- match, with Hawks’ sophomore outside tum in favor of the Hawks was ended by hitter Hoang Nguyen often venturing outa strike from another strong opponent, Si- side her position to intercept McElhaney’s erra freshman outside hitter Ashley McEl- strikes. haney. Freshman setter Candace Boehman “We have a hard time sticking to our and Hinz managed to win several extendpositions and not interfering with our ed rallies during the course of the second teammates,” said Hawks’ freshman outside match. hitter Gabrielle Hinz. But Sierra persisted, and McElhaney A spike from Sierra sophomore mid- landed the set point, winning the set 25-20. dle hitter Julia Dorsey concluded the first “We had a slow start,” said Hawks asmatch at 25-7. sistant coach Chris Banks.“But we came in But the game wasn’t over, and the on the second and third game with a little Hawks’ spirits were unhindered. During more energy and our hitting took off.” the break, Wells participated in an inspirHawks freshman setter Laura Villano ing rendition of “Gangnam Style” for her initiated the third game. Again, the match team. started out closely contested. “We’re having fun,” said Hawks’ sophoKoloamatangi’s powerful strikes almore middle hitter Rose Koloamatangi. lowed the team to gain some leverage, and “During the whole season, we were just go- Sierra’s focus appeared to weaken with ing through the motions, but today we had many out-of-bounds shots. fun and we played as a team.” Soon after, Nguyen destroyed Sierra The second match saw the Hawks in- College’s momentum with a quick strike. A tensify their game. Hinz battled back with five-point streak followed, and the match

was closing in at 21-19, with Sierra leading. The streak was stopped dead after Hinz failed to intercept another hit from McElhaney. Sierra College fought back, and the match ended at 25-9, with an out of bounds hit from Hinz. Banks is confident that the team can fix its communication for the end of the season. “We were a little quiet on the court. We struggle with it. We have a couple more practices to improve.” Nguyen, a noticeable presence on the court that night, was optimistic about the result. “Compared to what we have done with them in the past, we fought our best today,” she said.

>> Check out the photo gallery at www.thecrcconnection.com

Sports | November 15, 2012

Hawks battle through three games, win CRC Invitational

Mary Garcia | The Connection

Game 1— CRC freshman guard Samantha Reeder scores a layup off a long pass from a teammate. The Hawks won the game against Yuba College 96-49.

Jonathan Rich | The Connection Game 2—Freshman guard Jade Sowell-Hundon drives through the American River College defense for a layup.

Cosumnes River College invited seven other teams to compete in the annual tournament from Nov. 8-10. In the first game, the Hawks took on Yuba College, and blew past them. CRC eventually defeated Yuba 96-49 and moved on to the second round. Game two proved to be a tougher test. The Hawks squared off against American River College on Nov. 9. After a four quarter battle with the Beavers, the Hawks squeaked out a victory with a score of 77-70. Finally CRC moved on to the championship game to take on Modesto Jr. College. The Hawks soared past Modesto and took the tournament championship.

Game 3—Sophomore guard Brooke Fletcher attempts a free throw after being fouled by a Modesto Jr. College player. After Modesto kept it close, the Hawks were able to pull away in the fourth quarter and win the game 7658. The win sealed the tournament for CRC and allowed them to hoist the trophy. Mary Garcia | The Connection

Jonathan Rich | The Connection

The women's basketball team prepares to take on the American River College Beavers with a pre-game ritual before the second round of the annual CRC Invitational.

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Arts & Entertainment

Bond is back: Lines are blurred between hackney and tradition By Mozes Zarate mzarate.connect@gmail

“I’m frightened because our enemies are no longer known to us. They do not exist on a map, they’re not nations. They’re individuals.” “Skyfall” opened this weekend, the twenty-third film in the long-running James Bond: 007 franchise. Britain’s Central Intelligence Agency, MI6, is being sabotaged by one man (played by Javier Bardem) and his technological prowess. The old ways of espionage are being tried against the digital age, where terror runs without flags or borders. In this new arena, Bond struggles as an old dog with his Walther PPK and some quick feet. The opening scene provokes a far more vulnerable Bond, played by Daniel Craig. A bullet wound has destroyed his marksmanship. His stamina has weakened from drink. Most importantly, his loyalty to king and country isn’t what it used to be. Throughout the film, there are consistent thematic elements that are sure to keep the literary types enthused. Tones of resurrection, of struggles with change and tried and true good vs. evil are all here. There’s even a bit of social commentary that attempts to make the film more important than it is, but not with the same vomit-inducing melodrama contained in the “The Dark Knight.” This film knows how to be subtle. There are plenty of Bond traditions that fans will be quick to catch. There’s a musical introduction performed by a famous singer, Adele. There are your chase scenes, shoot outs, gadgets, vodka martinis and yes sir, beautiful women. The tantalizing Bérénice Marlohe plays the bond

Fall events, personal enjoyment with the added spirit of giving Compiled by Brittany Patrick bpatrick.connect@gmail

Local Events News 10 Coats for Kids

When: Nov. 1 – Dec. 14 What: Bring new or gently used coats to any Swanson’s Cleaners, Tri Counties bank or News 10 studio to help keep local people warm during the cold winter. To find out more about where to drop off or pick up coats please visit: http://www.news10.net/life/ community/events/coatsforkids/

Cal Expo’s Sacramento Harvest Festival Original Arts and Crafts

Courtesy Photo

Bond, played by Daniel Craig, appears shaken and stirred during a firefight with minions of the villon Raoule Silva in Sam Mendes's directed movie "Skyfall," the twenty-third 007 film. girl, Sévérine. The film has some brilliantly rendered moments. One night scene has Bond tailing an assassin in Shanghai. He follows him to the top floor of a high-rise building illuminated by the city lights. Bond allows the assassin to kill his victim, then comes my favorite part: old fashioned fisticuffs. Craig has a body type that is perfect for hand-to-hand combat (can’t say the same about his awkward running), and it’s tastefully shot in one continuous take, which you don’t see often in the cut-up, music video approach to modern filming (See “The Dark Knight Rises”). Shanghai looks beautiful in the backdrop, creating a silhouetted struggle between two “men of the shadows.” It’s poetic, it’s choreographed wonderfully and it’s a blast to watch.

Another scene, again weaving itself tightly with the struggles of old and new, has Bond and his allies shacked up in an abandoned estate on the countryside of England. Using homemade explosives and a hunting rifle, Bond and an old friend are at odds with a platoon of fully armed gunmen and a fancy new helicopter. It’s a Die Hard approach to action scenes, where the hero is weakened, outnumbered and outgunned. Witnessing how the old man manages to kill everyone anyway is an expected surprise. The location is equally surprising, as exotic cityscapes or secluded military bases are the usual locales in a Bond film. Skyfall is a sophisticated study of the spy archetype (with explosions), but it’s not perfect.

I felt fatigued with a lot of the material here. From the vehicular chase scenes, to the villain who’s always one step ahead of the heroes (I meant for you to capture me all along!), to the last-words from a dying central character. Many of scenes will make you aware of how often Hollywood likes to use the same cut-outs to stencil their films. Insert Judi Dench here, they might have said. There’s even a part where both Bond and the villain defy death after a large explosion, just so they can have one last confrontation, which I’m sure you’ve never seen before. Regardless, it’s all done well, and if you’re thinking of dipping your feet in the longest running franchise in cinema history, you’ll get your money’s worth. Every penny of it.

"We are trying to get into the habit of pot locking but it never seems to work. It’s a day of having too much to eat and playing games. We have a large family, so from the biggest to the middlest of all the generations. We have a great day and we are thankful.” Gennell Sires, 63 human services major

"Sometimes my extended family comes over but not very often. We use traditional recipes from back in the past, like my grandma’s Jell-O salad, we always make that." Ashley Gallenstein,18 animal science major

“We actually fight. We go and we rent a big jump house and get padding and everything and everybody settles there family disputes on Thanksgiving. Then after everything is done, we just sit and eat for the rest of the day." Jeff Mack, 23 kinesolgy major "We always gather as a family and we usually do watch football. We actually go to different houses, like we’ll have dinner at one house then we have dessert at a different house. It's always very hectic, lots of kids running around, lots of food." Michael Yarbrough mathematics and statistics professor

Festival of Trees feat. A Taste of Northern California

When: Nov. 18, 4 p.m. What: Portion of proceeds goes to Birth Connection, with start costs at $25, which helps keeps kids out of foster care and helps mothers in crisis. There will be live entertainment, holiday music, food and activities for kids.

Campus Events

Campus community shares Thanksgiving traditions and celebrations By Osay Ogbebor koogbebor.connect@gmail

When: Nov. 16 – 18, 9a.m. – 6 p.m. What: Hundred of vendors, hand made arts, crafts, jewelry, clothing, blankets and more, as well as entertainers and festive food. A KidZone for eco friendly hands one arts and crafts activities for kids. Adults $9 Seniors $7 Youth (1317yrs) $4 Kids 12 and under are FREE receive $2 off if you bring a non perishable food item to the gate. Ticket is good for the whole weekend.

CRC Share Fair

"I don’t have a big family so usually just me, my brother and my mom go out. Don’t usually cook, but the last couple years we have gone to Wine and Roses, or something, that’s a restaurant in Lodi and in Sacramento." Kayli Sessions,18 undecided major

“We go camping. We go to the coast and we deep fry turkey. We usually go for three days. So we have the whole family out there all together for Thanksgiving. We play games, cards, board games, hike, sometimes we take bicycles, cook and eat around the camp fire." Marjorie Duffy computer information science professor

When: Nov. 15-16, 10a.m. – 1p.m. What: This event benefits nonprofit, social service entities and philanthropic entities. Shows opportunities to work and giving time and money to the community. Can drop off new toys, note pads, pen, calculations, gifts cards, gently used childrens clothing, canned food, cat and dog food. diaper, gently used children’s books, toiletries and much more. Located in the campus cafeteria.

CRC 2nd Annual Tellabration: International Storytelling

When: Nov. 15, 10:30p.m. 1:15p.m. What: CRC’s second annual Tellabration, an international celebration of oral storytelling. Located in the recital hall.

CRC Oregon Shakespeare Festival Performance

When: Nov. 15, 6:30p.m. - 9p.m. What: An annual performance free to all playing in the recital hall

Features | November 15, 2012

Enrollment choices swayed by students' opinions With registration approaching, students begin to search potential professors on ratemyprofessors.com By Ariel Hevesi ahevesi.connect@gmail

It’s that time of year again, Cosumnes River College students glue themselves to their laptops and smartphones as they strategically plan next semester's schedule. It isn't just a matter of choosing classes, it’s choosing one's destiny. Luckily, between tomorrow’s technology and today’s cyberspace-addicted generation, students have the luxury to sample any class they wish before nailing the coffin shut with enrollment. The website ratemyprofessor.com provides an inside look at professors and their courses through anonymous studentbased reviews. Simply type in a professor’s name and a novel's worth of comments appear at the tip of your fingers. “Really great professor,” wrote one of the reviewers for CRC film and media Professor Rick Boeck. “Lectures that would have been boring, he made hilarious and interesting.” Another student shared advice after taking English Professor Norman Hom’s class, “P.S. Don't walk in front of him while he’s talking...eek.” Before committing to 16 weeks of un-

familiar territory, liberal studies major Grace Bramlett is just one of many students who check the site before choosing next semester courses. “I like how you can rate and discuss their [professors] strengths and weaknesses,” Bramlett said. With a click of a mouse, students can rate a professor’s overall teaching quality with either a blue sad face or a yellow smiley face. For those seeking eye-candy along with education, there’s even a “hot” chili pepper icon to rate the professor’s overall attractiveness.

"I think it's hilarious. Some of the comments are really creative."

-Paul Zisk Sociology Professor

For many students, the professor ratings can either make or break enrolling in a course. Last semester, reviewers warned administration justice major Maranda Dean, 19, of a professor's heavy accent and disorganized teaching style. To Dean’s dismay, the comments turned out to be completely accurate. “I ended up switching to an evening class and she turned out to be my favorite professor,” Dean said. Engineering major Berenice Cervantes, 24, also used the website for insight on a public speaking course she signed up for. “I was able to see that people thought my teacher was an easy grader and the exams were helpful,” Cervantes said. Cervantes emphasized the site’s cred-

ibility when her personal experience matched the comments she read beforehand. “What the students say is true,” Cervantes said enthusiastically. Although the site can provide keen information on courses, comments can also leave viewers torn and conflicted. Since students use the site to voice their admirations and vent their frustrations, it’s no surprise comments can range from happy to hurtful. After referencing the websites comments “I found out some of the professors weren’t up to social standards of politeness” said 19-year-old psychology major Scott Miller. With over 200 comments to his name, sociology Professor Paul Zisk chuckled at the mention of the student-led website. “I think it’s hilarious,” Zisk said. “Some of the comments are really creative.” One Zisk reviewer wrote,“Quite a character! This guy pushes the limits each class. Crazy stories and many jokes.” However, Zisk mentioned the website’s potential danger when students biased opinions determine their future courses. “Usually students with good grades leave good comments and students with bad grades leave bad comments,” Zisk said. Students must navigate the site like a ship when it comes to judging credibility. “Everyone has their own opinion,” said 19-year-old social work major Kayalne Pearson. But at least with ratemyprofessors.com, “I know what I’m getting myself into,” said Cervantes. From praise to patrony, chili pepper to blue sad face, any comment is fair game with a website “led by students, focused on students,” Dean said.

The Top 5 Hot Chili Peppered Professors Melanie Lewis, English Shannon Mills, Anthropology Paul Zisk, Sociology David Weinshilboum, English Martin Morales, Political Science

Other professors on campus who have been hot chili peppered Jason Newman, History

Patty Felkner, Photography

Annmarie Beasley, Anthropology

Kathryn Mayo, Photography

November 15, 2012 |

8| www.thecrcconnection.com

News

Five propositions will change California law YES YES YES YES YES Proposition 30

Proposition 35

Proposition 36

What It Means: What It Means: What It Means: Proposition 35 will increase Proposition 36 revises the Propostion 30 will increase taxes for those making over prison sentences for human traf- California three strikes law. The $250,000 for the next seven years. ficking convictions. It will also new bill revises the law to impose Sales taxes will also be increased require human traffickers to reg- a life sentence only when the new felony conviction is serious or by a quarter of a penny for the ister as sex offenders. Furthermore, the bill will re- violent. next four years. The legislation may allow reThe revenue from these taxes quire these registered sex offendwill go towards maintaining and ers to disclose their Internet activ- sentencing if the third strike was not serious or violent. creating public education in Cali- ity and identities. Proposition 35 could cost Proposition 36 would double fornia. The taxes will increase fund- California a few million dol- the usual sentence for that third ing to community colleges in lars but because fines will be in- crime. The bill saves the state corCalifornia by $210 million. The creased on human trafficking state will be able to add 20,000 violations, the potential revenue rectional institutes $70 million additional community college could be the same as the cost, ac- annually, according to the official cording to the information guide. voters guide. students.

Proposition 39

What It Means: Proposition 39 closes the loophole that multi-state businesses used to escape paying certain taxes to California. The bill requires these businesses to pay income taxes based on their percentage of sales in California. Proposition 39 would increase state revenue $1 billion annually. Half of the new revenue will be dedicated to clean energy projects for the next five years. The other portion would likely be spent on state schools, according to the official guide.

Proposition 40

What It Means: The state senate approved boundaries for the districts of California to continue to be used. These district boundaries were certified by the the Indepent Citizens Reistricting Commision. By adhering to the current stucture of the districts, the State of California will save $1 million in revenue. If Proposition 40 had failed to pass the California Supreme court would designate a new commision with the sole purpose of re-designing the district boundaries.

Veterans Center: plans to help returning military personnel Continued from page 1

may not want to use their benefits until they get to the university.” This semester Los Rios changed their enrollment application form to ask if a student is a veteran or in active duty. “What we’re seeing is an influx of students definitely coming in,” Ursin said. “Students that have just retired from the military, that are young and want to go to school. They’re not in a mindset of dropping out.” Ursin has 20 years of experience in helping students at CRC, including veterans of all ages. “My personal observation is that the students who are in the military have a commitment to finishing what they’ve started,” she said. “They’re not inclined to drop out just because they don’t get along with the teacher. They will put up with a lot of garbage from students who are less mature.” The college currently provides many opportunities for vets struggling to transition. Ursin refers to it as a “threearmed” conglomerate of resources. The first arm is the newly opened Veterans Center, located on the second floor of the Learning Resource Center. It’s a place where students like Lester Stone, a veteran discharged in 2009, find solace in interacting with likeminded individuals. “It gives the vets an opportunity to come in and hang out and share experiences,” Stone said. “They need help, and we’re here to help them.” The second arm comes from the counseling department. Counselors like Ralph Hendrix and Teresa Aldrege

specialize in dealing with soldier’s needs. Soon, a group counseling effort provided by the VA will give veterans on campus that are affected with posttraumatic stress disorder an opportunity to seek help from professional psychologists. The third arm is the admissions office, where folks like Ursin are “jumping through the hoops” to get all the paperwork in so that soldiers returning home can retrieve their benefits, including giving priority zero enrollment to veterans. It is a benefit that is sure to cut down the frustration level for vets needing a minimum number of units in order to continue to receive benefits. Veteran Tony Dunns acknowledged the availability of resources and stressed the importance of being proactive to seek them out. “There are areas here that all students can connect to,” Dunns said. “People are willing to help. It’s upon the individual to have the courage to ask.” Setting aside the resources, not all veterans have the same career ambitions or circumstances. “There’s a possibility I might be deploying,” David

Hayes, in the army reserve, said. “It might be a long time before I’m ever back here.” Hayes is a mechanical engineering major working to transfer to a four-year. If he is deployed overseas next year, he intends to finish his education when he returns. “Some veterans are not looking for the four-year experience,” Ursin also clarified. Many soldiers receive technical training during their service, so when returning home, she says, they are looking to utilize that experience in a job that would require a certificate. These career paths may not amount to a traditional diploma, which could skew the prediction. “If I were to just, out of the air, pull a number,” Ursin said, speaking in terms of CRC, “it would be less than 10 percent, and that’s not substantiated with data. It’s just based on what I see.” “It’s been non-stop students who have been saying, ‘I want to get in,'" she said. “‘Here are my military discharge papers. What do I need to do next? Where do I go? Who do I see?’ The desire is too strong to have people say ‘Forget it. I’m going to bail.’”