Fall 2014 - Issue Four

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One Year Later After two seasons of use, athletes are happy with new fields but see room for a few improvements.

Crime by numbers

Newly-released statistics speak to campus safety News, Page 2 ISSUE 4 10/30/14 - 11/20/14 Student voice of CRC since 1970

Season of giving

Holiday season begins with annual campus food drive Features, Page 5

FACEBOOK /crcconnection

See Page 12 Ceejay Willis | The Connection

Election 2014

Jerry Brown is the only choice for governor Opinion, Page 8

TWITTER @crcconnection

Lack of attendance

Tickets to games are cheap, but the seats are empty Sports, Page 11

INSTAGRAM @thecrcconnection

Page 2

October 30, 2014

>>News

Clery report shows drop in campus crime

By Nick Valenzuela nvalenzuela.connect@gmail.com The Los Rios Police Department released the annual Clery report on Sept. 30, which details the crime statistics of all United States colleges and universities.

The report offers a comparison of criminal offenses, arrests and subsequent disciplinary action taken against offenders between American River College, Cosumnes River College, Folsom Lake College and Sacramento City College.

“You are a product of your environment,” LRPD Sgt. Brian Washington said of CRC’s safety. “Wherever the campus sits is generally the environment of the crowd that you are going to draw.”

According to the report, CRC’s incidents of crime on campus have seen the largest drop between the four Los Rios colleges, while FLC remains the campus with the least incidents last year and overall.

“I can attribute [the crime drop] to some of the officers, we have some damn fine officers here,” Washington said.

“They’re being more proactive, you can see us walking around on campus more.”

The amount of police pa-

trolling the campus does help some students feel more secure.

“I feel pretty safe because I usually see one to two police officers at any given time,” said Justin Alexander, a 22-year-old business major.

“They usually have a pretty good response time when something does happen.”

Julieanna Walling, 21, an undeclared major , said she felt similarly about her safety on campus.

“On a scale of one to 10, I feel generally safe,” Walling said.

“There are lots of lights and people generally keep to themselves.”

However, CRC does have the most reported incidents of domestic violence with five reported in 2013.

Prior to 2013, incidents of domestic violence were not recorded in the Clery report’s statistics.

“The Clery Center just announced the Final Regulations to the [Violence Against Women Act] Amendments to Clery for the domestic violence, stalking, and dating violence categories,” LRPD Capt. Chris Day said in an email.

Day said that with the changed regulations, all institutions involved with the Clery reporting system were

asked for a “Good Faith” effort, or an honest estimation, to report the number of domestic violence incidents in 2013.

Washington said that although the rates of violent crime have dropped, other crimes like theft have seen an increase.

“Next year, you’ll probably see a lot of petty thefts for bikes [from this year],” Washington said.

“The good thing is, we were able to catch one person

stealing a bike last week … we caught him with the goods, so that’s nice.”

Thefts were not among the crimes reported on the Clery report, though information on these crimes are available in the LRPD crime log on request, Day said.

Despite the relatively low amounts of crime on CRC’s campus, Washington said that students should still take measures to remain safe on campus.

“Like our slogan was be-

Ceejay Willis | The Connection

fore, ‘Do you like your stuff?

So do other people,’” Washington said. “Just be aware of your environment. What I see everybody doing is walking with their cell phones out, and I know this little electronic device is our world now, but take some time out from it, and just watch what’s going on. Put your head up.”

The full Clery report can be found on the LRPD’s website, police.losrios.edu.

Heather Kemp contributed to this article.

Student fees don’t necessarily impact campus

By Emanuel Espinoza eespinoza.connect@gmail.com Originally, education at community colleges in California was free, students only paid for fees for parking and other amenities based upon the tuition-free goals of the California Master Plan for Higher Education. Over the years, tuition has increased.

From 1984 to 1998, the tuition rose from $5 a unit to $13 a unit before dropping to $12 a unit in 1999 and $11 a unit in 2000 to 2003, according to the Community College League of California. Between 2003 and the present fees rose many times, from $13, to $18, $20, $26, $36 and finally to the current $46 a unit.

The latest increases that came in 2011, the rise from $26 to $46, were instituted by the governor in the belief that it

would leverage more federal funds for community college amidst the economic issues of the time, according to the California Legislative Analyst’s Office.

Cosumnes River College’s Public Information Officer Kristie West said that the amount of money being charged to students is not determined by CRC, but the state legislature. She said that she has not heard of any increases or decreases in the future.

“When the fees increased to where they are now, it hit many students hard, but financial aid was increased and when compared to the cost of other colleges and universities, especially when compared to those outside of California, it is still very cost effective,” West said.

Alongside deciding tuition fees, the state legislature

also determines the amount of funding awarded to California community colleges in any given year. West said that while it may appear that when fees go up that college resources go up as well, that

“Fortunately for me, I had my classes paid for. Sixteen units, so that was great because I obviously could not pay for all those units with a part-time job, plus the books. ”

-- Vanessa Hader

23, nursing major

isn’t the case as the sources of funding are different.

Vanessa Hader, a 23-yearold nursing major, said that she thinks that for most students in these tough economic times, it would be good to decrease fees.

“Fortunately for me, I had my classes paid for,” Hader said. “Sixteen units, so that was great because I obviously could not pay for all those units with a part-time job, plus the books.”

Hader said that if the fees decrease, it would be great for a lot of students as it would be easier to afford the fees for tuition and books. She said that if they do decrease, a lot more students would be going to school, possibly even full time.

Natalie Caldwell, a 28-year-old photography major, said she believes that tuition fees are very expensive.

She said that she thinks the amounts should decrease and college would be more affordable if the fees went down.

“As it is, I have my parents help me pay for school,” Caldwell said.

“As far as textbooks go, it was a big factor, as far as pricing went. I rent my books now so that makes it more affordable for me. I rent them through Amazon.”

Caldwell said that whether fees increase or decrease, it would have to depend on everybody’s situation and what they could afford.

West said that when fees go down, it affects students the most because more students are then able to attend college classes, which is a good thing for the community.

“Student fees don’t directly impact the financial stability of the college,” West said.

THECRCCONNECTION.COM

PAGE 3

Brown leading in polls in race for governor

By Heather Kemp hkemp.connect@gmail.com Current California Governor Jerry Brown will likely win a record fourth term in office as he is leading the polls by 19.5 percentage points in the upcoming Nov. 4 election, according to Real Clear Politics.

Running against first-time republican candidate Neel Kashkari, Brown is expected to win by a landslide, according to RCP. “The polls show Brown with a clear lead over Kashkari,” said political science Professor Elizabeth Huffman.

“It looks like a pretty safe bet to claim Brown will win. While I am not an expert on state-level politics, I don’t foresee any big changes in Brown’s agenda.”

His agenda includes supporting education at all levels and furthering moves to make California as environmentally

friendly and economically stable as possible, according to his website.

Kashkari wants to create more jobs, fix the public school system and make higher education more affordable, according to his website.

For the most part, Kashkari criticizes Brown for not doing enough for the state on all fronts and claims that he can do better.

One of their main points of friction is centered around Brown’s high-speed rail program.

Brown supports the project that would connect northern and southern California in a cleaner way than other modes of transportation, while Kashkari opposes spending the money on the “crazy train” and would rather direct the funds towards things like education, according to an article from CBS Sacramento.

“I think I say no on build-

ing the thing [high-speed rail], I think the money could be better used other places like education,” said 18-year-old landscape architecture major Emily Curtis.

Maddie Owens, 22, a mathematics major, agreed with Curtis.

“It’d be pretty cool to get to Los Angeles a hell of a lot faster, but it would be nice if CRC got some more funding,” said Owens.

The men both have lengthy resumes that include high power positions.

Kashkari was senior advisor assistant secretary to the United States Treasury Department from 2006-09, Vice President of Goldman Sachs and Managing Director of the Pacific Investment Management Company, according to The Sacramento Bee. Brown is the current governor, has served as attorney general, the mayor of Oakland

and been Secretary of State, according to the Sacramento Bee. Brown previously served as governor from 1975 to 1983 before starting his third term in 2011.

The next governor will be decided on Nov. 4 by the residents of California between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Before voting, Huffman said that it is crucial to be educated on the information appearing on the ballot.

“It’s very important that people inform themselves and then take part in the democratic system. It’s easy to claim that the government doesn’t listen. It’s a little harder to consider that maybe the public has abdicated its responsibility,” Huffman said. “If we as citizens don’t even attempt to inform ourselves and show up to vote, should we be surprised when the political system is not responsive to our

needs?”

Students overwhelmingly agree with Huffman’s sentiments.

“There is no point in voting if you are not educated because you have no basis to make your vote on,” Curtis said.

Owens shared an example of how uneducated attempts at voting can be difficult and confusing.

“My sister has the mindset of ‘if I see a slander campaign upon someone, I’m not gonna vote for them because everybody keeps slandering them,’” Owens said. “And then she gets all confused because she sees one for slandering and one for helping and then she doesn’t know what to do anymore.”

For information about everything being decided in the election, visit the General Election website at: http:// www.voterguide.sos.ca.gov/

Voters to cast ballots in key state races Propositions that are going to appear on the Nov. 4 ballot Proposition 1: This measure helps protect the environment and is intended to help restore wildlife in California. It creates new storage for California’s water supply and helps clean existing groundwater.

Proposition 2: This measure creates a rainy day fund and would require lawmakers and the governor pay off debts during times to of prosperity in California.

Politicians would be required to live within their means and reduce the need to increase taxes. This measure protects schools by making it clear that school’s will not have cuts in funding durings times of recession.

Democrat Jerry Brown (top) and his opponent Republican Neel Kashkari (bottom) are the candidates for Governor of California.

Democrat Doris Matsui (top) and Republican opponent Joseph McCray, Sr. (bottom) are the congressional candidates for District 6.

Democrat Ami Bera (top) and Republican opponent Doug Ose (bottom) are the congressional candidates for District 7.

All Photos are Courtesy Photos

Save The Date!

Nov. 3 Ninth Annual CRC-CPPE Ethics Symposium

Come to Sac State at 8:30 a.m. as they explore politics and how they impact our community.

Nov. 5 Resume and Cover Letter Workshop

This event will teach students the latest techniques to set themselves apart when applying for jobs at 11 a.m. in T-116.

Proposition 45: Companies are required to be transparent in the process of rate increases in healthcare and disclose the reasons behind it.

Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day

There are no classes being held on campus. Enjoy a day off and pay respect to those who have served in the armed forces.

Proposition 46: This measure would require drug and alcohol testing of doctors in hopes to deter them from practicing medicine under the influence. The measure is projected to increase the the malpractice cap.

Proposition 47: This proposition would reduce jail populations and lower prison sentences. It will fund preventative efforts for anti-truancy programs in grades K-12.

Proposition 48: Prop 48 would promote tribal self-sufficiency and allow a new casino to be built in Madera and prohibit one on Wiyolt tribal land. It is set to boost the economy through job growth.

Information compiled by Brittany Harden

Nov. 18 CRC Composer Ensemble Concert

Come support your fellow students and enjoy a night of music starting at 7:30 p.m. in the Recital Hall.

Page 4

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Skill based financial aid program gives students college payment options

By Brittany Harden bharden.connect@gmail.com Some colleges in the United States are now allowing students a new program for financial aid that measures how well a student is doing in their studies compared to the current standard of how long they have been in school.

This new way to distribute financial aid money would be based on the competency of the student rather than their time in school and would allow students to “move at their own pace,” according to an article from National Public Radio.

The program would “allow institutions to get student aid funding by creating programs that directly measure learning, not time.”

According to the same article, this kind of financial aid funding is called direct assessment or competency-based education.

Lord Ronnin, a 19-yearold business major, said he believes that it will help students who are serious about getting a higher education.

“I think it’s a good idea because people take advantage of the system,” Ronnin said. “People who get a lot of

financial aid will take a lot of classes and drop a month later once they have the money.”

Competency-based education programs give students the ability to learn, “skills at their own pace” and “competency-based learning systems help to save both time and money,” according to the U.S Department of Education.

“I think it will save money, people just sitting around won’t get any money,” said Will Harris a 25-year-old economics major. “I know of people that take a class and then just take the money.”

This program will help students because then they will be able to account for information that they previously learned from different colleges, according to NPR. The article said the program is meant to target the “working student,” and help give focus to those who are balancing life, work and education.

While Ronnin said he thought the competency-based program would be good for students, 41-year-old child development major Tina Bruner said she disagrees.

Bruner said that she believes the program may be discriminatory against students who have disabilities and that

financial aid should remain the same.

“I don’t like it at all,” Bruner said. “What does that have to do with financial aid.

Some people are not going for the money, but it helps.”

“There are tens of millions of adults in their early 20s through late middle age who need to complete their first degree, earn a second or simply update their skills,” according to NPR. “People that need it won’t stress about work and focus more on class,” Ronnin said.

There is skepticism among students and some believe that this new competency-based program may not even help students graduate sooner or faster.

“It all depends on the student. If they are determined, they will graduate on time,” Bruner said.

Even though some students may think that this new program is not helpful to students, the program was made to help school work around the adult schedule.

“This is an opportunity to fit education around their life rather than ask them to fit their life around a standard academic calendar,” according to NPR.

Ceejay Willis | The Connection

Students waiting outside of the Financial Aid office to get their questions answered by the staff.

CORRECTION: In the Oct. 16 issue of The Connection, Carol Bernardo was mistitled. Her title is professor and coordinator of the Work Experience Education and Internship program. In addition, internships offered through Cosumnes River College are paid and unpaid.

Online office hours allow counselors to help more students

By Marcus Ellis mellis.connect@gmail.com Cosumnes River College’s counseling department is now offering students the opportunity to interact with them more frequently through their new online live chat services.

Spearheaded by CRC counselor Monica Cranston, with the help of Christina Ocrant, an educational media and web design specialist, the CRC live chat service is a platform that students can access to get immediate and timely answers to their questions, according to the 2013-14 Center for the Advancement of Staff and Student Learning innovative grant report form.

“Students have questions regarding all sorts of things like their careers goals, personal matters, juggling their work with school and other bureaucratic questions about the college. They worry about this stuff,” said Cranston. “So we thought, why not try out live-in real time-access to a counselor a few times a week where anybody from anywhere can access a counselor for general questions.”

Often times, students have trouble getting their questions answered through the campus counseling department, due to either overcrowding or the long waiting periods.

“Anytime I’ve ever tried to make an appointment, either I don’t go at the right time or there isn’t enough room available because they are so backed up and overcrowded,” said Cierra Gonsalves, 21, an English major. “Even when you do get to talk to a counselor, you have to realize they’re on a very tight schedule and will probably have to rush with you in order to see everyone available.”

Gonsalves said that the program will be good for the campus.

“I think it’s great that they’re making a program where quick questions can be asked and answered with a click of a button,” Gonsalves said. “This is definitely going to be a very beneficial tool for the campus.”

Questions and topics ranging from deadlines, prerequisites and other general inquiries and concerns can be addressed through this new

live chat service.

“Pretty much absolutely anything, except something that involves evaluation of actual transcripts,” Cranston said.

The students whose questions that are unable to be answered through the online service will be instructed to go to the counseling office for a more in-depth session.

Advertised on CRC’s web page in the news items column, this online live chat resource, though in the early developmental and pilot stages, has already begun to facilitate and aid students.

“We were capturing anywhere from nine to 14 people in one hour sessions,” Cranston said. “That’s a lot of students in one hour. When you do the face-to-face in person sessions up here, we don’t see nine students in one hour, there’s no way.”

“I think it’s great

that they’re making a program where quick questions can be asked and answered with the click of a button.”

-- Cierra Gonsalves

21, English major

This innovative live chat service is available to help students with common questions and concerns, for instances where it’s not really necessarily for them to come in or schedule an appointment with a counselor.

“Being a transfer student, I see this as a very helpful and convenient method of getting answers to simple questions.

This online assistance will also make them [counselors] more accessible and available to students and would encourage students to seek them out for help and guidance,” said Cynthia Mesa, 20, an international relations major.

Though there are only three counselors at the moment working the live chat service, the plan is to encourage all counselors to play a more integral role in assisting students via online services.

October 30, 2014

Page 5

>>Features

Does ‘Bro Code’ create sexist behavior in men?

By Emanuel Espinoza eespinoza.connect@gmail.com Sexism, misogyny and masculinity, these are some key elements that define what some people refer to as “The Bro Code.”

“The Bro Code” was a film shown at Cosumnes River College on Oct. 21, and was presented by CRC music professor Steven Coughran, who is also the campus sustainability chair of the Social Responsibility Committee.

The film is part of the SRC’s Fall 2014 series “Let’s Eradicate Hate.”

” Our actions have consequences and if we think about that and have a look at these images and our behaviors, we might realize that they do more damage than we realize.” ­­— Steven Coughran Music professor

The film talked about how contemporary culture creates sexist men, how womanizing is about power and privilege, and a sense of entitlement, and how women are taught to be submissive and men are taught to be in control in some situations.

Coughran said that from watching this film, people can learn to understand that they have behavioral choices, and that they don’t have to behave in ways that are modeled for them in the media.

“Our actions have consequences and if we think about that and have a look at these images and our behaviors, we might realize that they do more damage than we realize,” Coughran said.

The documentary had chapters on different forms of masculinity and misogyny. One chapter talked about rape culture and the jokes related to it. It also touched on how a man is stigmatized for doing anything considered remotely female.

Jamie Rivera, a 37-yearold nursing major, said that the film taught her to reassess her attitude and decide if there are any ways to speak up and be a force for change.

“I felt like some of the things we saw I recognized that were sexist and just looking at my own behaviors, I realized that there were a lot of things that I played into it by specifically talking about jokes, I found myself wanting to laugh a few times,” Rivera said. “Now just looking back, I realize that maybe that wasn’t the right thing to do.”

MTV was touched on in the film, particularly talking about “The Jersey Shore,” and how the men on that show make it a goal to sleep with many women, as if men are competing with each other for a person of the opposite sex, and how women are never equal to men.

Kids are copying what they see on TV with all these values that are being presented to them in these shows.

TJ Kim, a 19-year-old emergency technology major, said that the film taught him to put himself in a woman’s shoes and really see how differently they’re treated compared to men.

The film touched on how pornography can negatively affect relationships, like how a guy can habitually consume porn and the problems within

Courtesy Photo

the relationship arise.

Sarah Ahmad, an 18-yearold biology major, said that the film taught her how there are many groups of guys in one or two categories when they are not all the same, and it showed the bad aspects in guys, not the good in them.

“There are many bad people in this world who do stupid things to women, but not all of them are like that,” Ahmad said. “It [the film] did try to warn women in the room that it could happen to them, and it was a nice gesture.”

CRC’s donation drive is collecting from students

By Brittany Harden bharden.connect@gmail.com The season of giving has begun as the Cosumnes River College Social Respon-

sibility Committee kicked off the annual campus canned food drive on Oct. 9.

Dedicated to community involvement and promoting social justice, the SRC

Jelina Cortero | The Connection

The Hawks Nest Bookstore is one of several drop off areas on campus.

These large bins have been placed for students to donate canned food as well as other various items.

collaborates with non-profit and social service organizations, said English Professor Heather Hutcheson in an email interview.

“I want students to realize the power we have as a large campus, and that one person can make a tremendous difference,” said Hutcheson.

The food drive will continue until Nov. 20.

Hutcheson said she is not only looking for canned food, but she is also looking for people to donate clothing, books, toys, disposable dishware, toiletries for women and much more.

Students on campus said they are looking out for the boxes to donate and have a positive outlook on the drive.

“Everyone should participate. I gave 10 cans last week,”said Symphia Jackson, a 23-year-old liberal arts major. “It’s hard out here, especially during the

holidays.”

In addition to the canned food drive, there are many events, on campus that are geared towards getting students and faculty to donate, such as the Share Fair events which will take place on Nov. 18 and 19.

The Annual CRC SHARE Fair is a three-day celebration of philanthropy and the recognition of the non-profit organizations in Sacramento, according to the CRC website.

Items are also donated and delivered to various organizations and representatives from many local non-profits came to campus to speak to students, staff and faculty about the community services they offer.

The drop off areas, where large bins have been placed for donations, are in the Hawks Nest College Bookstore, the Rio Bistro cafe, the library foyer, southeast office complex and the

reading and writing center.

Carl Jones, 20, a business major, said he had a positive outlook about the drive’s success.

“Yes, it will be successful,” Jones said. “Depends on the location [of the boxes].”

According to a press release, volunteers for these events are needed and many community programs have decided to help out, such as the Sacramento Area Citizens Climate Lobby, Relationship Skills Center, My Sister’s House and Volunteers of America.

If students are interested in helping out the social responsibility committee, please contact Heather Hutcheson at hutcheh@crc. losrios.edu.

thecrcconnection.com

Page 6

T.I. releases his ninth album

By Emanuel Espinoza eespinoza.connect@gmail.com T.I., the self-proclaimed “King of the South,” has come out with a new album and shows that he is one of the finest rappers to come from the South, though there are a few songs that could have been better.

“Paperwork,” T.I.’s ninth album overall, was released on Oct. 21. It opens with the song “King,” not to be confused with his fourth album of the same name, released in 2006. T.I. unleashes a series of verses with quick rhymes, proving that he is still one of the greatest lyricists to come out of Atlanta.

The song also has a good beat to back the lyrics.

One of the album’s standout tracks would have to be the lead single of the album, “About the Money,” which features Young Thug, who has the first verse and does the post-chorus. The song had a good beat, as well as some good lyrics from both T.I. and his guest artist.

Speaking of guest artists, there were some that shined. The song “New National Anthem” featured

Skylar Grey, who provided the vocals for the chorus in a song about police brutality.

Another guest artist on this album was none other than the executive producer himself, Pharrell Williams.

The first song Pharrell appears on was the album’s titular track, which was as decent as it was mellow, but there was something about it that kept it from being a good song. For example, T.I. spits some lyrics about serious issues, but Pharrell’s singing on the chorus did not really the fit song that well, but it wasn’t unbearable in the least bit.

Iggy Azalea appeared on the song “No Mediocre,” which had a fun beat to it, but it came off as misogynistic in some ways, with Azalea’s verse being a counter-argument of some sort. It had a nice beat, but the song was rather basic.

That isn’t to say that any other songs that are somewhat raunchy and sexist weren’t good. The songs “Private Show” and “At Ya’ Own Risk,” which respectively featured Chris Brown and Usher, had better beats, and performances done by the guest artists and the

main artist, himself.

One of the other standout songs on this album was “Light Em Up (RIP Doe B),” which T.I. rapped about an old friend of his who was killed, and reminisced about the times he had with him while he was alive, and how he was supposed to join him to record but was killed before that could happen.

It was one of the album’s darkest tracks and the emotion in T.I.’s voice and in his rhymes.

Overall, this album is actually decent, but there were some songs that could have been done better.

While this album doesn’t compare to T.I.’s classic albums like 2003’s “Trap Muzik,” 2004’s “Urban Legend,” 2006’s “King” or 2008’s “Paper Trail,” it’s still an exceptional listen.

Author’s score out of 5 For more music reviews, visit thecrcconnection.com or follow the Connection on Twitter @ crcconnection

Courtesy Photo

To shave or or not to shave?

By Jelina Cortero & Scott Redmond jcortero.connect@gmail.com & sredmond.connect@gmail.com

She Said:

He Said:

When it comes to looks, image and appearance leave a major impression.

For girls, we have a variety of ways to make sure we look our best. So it is in everyone’s best interest to be shaved, men included.

Clean shaven men are always more attractive.

A clean shave says a lot about the man. Clean shaven men tend to take more time on their appearance because who wants a man who looks like he doesn’t take care of himself. Some men think that shaving off their facial hair makes them “less of a man” or feel that having no facial hair makes them have a “baby face,” but I’d rather have a baby face than a bearded grizzly.

Facial hair also makes intimacy unenjoyable, it always gets in the way. Just shave it all off, including the downstairs. There’s nothing more unappealing than a man who doesn’t manscape.

Sex is the main reason why men should shave, especially for oral sex because who really wants to go down through a jungle to give pleasure while choking on pubic hair, not hot at all.

It’s understandable to not want to shave because of the whole “manly” essence of it, but if us girls shave down there for your guys pleasure the least men can do is shave their privates for a girl’s peace of mind.

I mean I don’t know about you but a wooly mammoth downstairs is a major turn off. Just shave.

There’s nothing hotter than a man who doesn’t need a beard to feel like a man.

Out of all the things that can be found on the surface of the human body, it’s hair that seems to ignite many debates. To shave or not to shave, that seems to be the question.

The answer is no, in case you were wondering.

Beards are in again. Not the type that is just a tangled forest of dirty hair though.

Beards come with the commitment of washing, trimming , and maybe putting some beard oil on there to keep it soft. No need to shave it all off.

The same goes for body hair in more private areas.

Does catching a piece of hair in the mouth during oral sex suck? Sure, but demanding that a person shave off their natural hair just for your own convenience is wrong.

According to an article from The Telegraph, shaving of pubic hair can cause itching, ingrown hairs and an increased chance for infection through abscesses.

In fact, a 2012 study by the Department of Dermatology at Liège University Hospital in Belgium suggested that the removal of pubic hair can increase the chance of contracting STI’s because the removal of hair affects the skin membrane and makes it easier for bacteria to enter the body.

Putting sharp blades near such a sensitive area is enough to make me shiver and cringe just at the thought. Besides, honestly I don’t really want my partner to look like they haven’t hit puberty yet.

No one should be forced to conform to what others find aesthetically pleasing.

Go natural, leave the hair.

For more No Strings Attached columns, visit our website thecrcconnection. com. Do you think exes can still be friends? Let us know your thoughts.

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PAGE 7

Gambino delivers with second half of new dual album

By Emiliano Martin emartin.connect@gmail.com Independent rapper Childish Gambino continues to expand on the term concept album with his newest double album “STN MTN / Kauai.”

It continues the story of The Boy, the through line to Gambino’s albums since last year’s “Because the Internet,” a character who was presumed dead by the end of his last album’s story line. This assumption drives the belief that “STN MTN / Kauai” takes place earlier in The Boy’s story.

“STN MTN / Kauai” is split into two parts, each side’s theme reflecting their respective title. The “STN MTN” side is a hip-hop oriented mixtape centering on The Boy’s dream of running Atlanta, hosted by DJ Drama, the title referring to the Stone Mountain area where Childish Gambino grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. While the “Kauai” side is an R&B and pop inspired EP, featuring Jaden Smith as The Boy, named after Kauai, Hawaii.

In an interview with Childish Gambino, Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg said Gambino’s mixtape collaboration with DJ Drama was “an unlikely pairing” and likened it to the uniqueness of Pharrell’s 2006 release with DJ Drama, “In My Mind (The Prequel).”

Rosenberg is correct, as Childish Gambino takes full advantage of the mixtape format with “STN MTN” by selecting an unexpected set of songs.

More than half of the mixtape sees Gambino rapping over other artists’ beats and reworking songs that would, in any other context, cost too much to license.

Gambino maintains his sense of authorship by making each song his own while retaining elements of the songs being used.

His best reworking on “STN MTN” is a cover of Usher’s Neptunes produced “U Don’t Have to Call.” It begins with Childish Gambino singing

Courtesy Photo

a cappella until a keyboard reworking of the beat comes in, courtesy of Gambino’s frequent production collaborator Ludwig Goransson, and builds from there. The song ends with a spoken word verse where Childish Gambino describes his personal story and heritage.

The puns and double entendres are toned down here in favor of one-liners which puts more emphasis on the few, poignant moments of “STN MTN.” Moments whose impact are darker than expected, like on the chorus for “Nextel Chirp” where he discusses the setbacks of his cousin, “yeah, my cousin used to serve him,

now he learning how to walk.”

What endures “STN MTN” is Childish Gambino’s delivery. It’s his energy and vocal flourishes that carry the mixtape through the occasional, uninspired line.

But, the “Kauai” side of “STN MTN / Kauai” is the opposite of the former in theme and execution.

Prior to the EP’s release, Childish Gambino told Rosenberg, in the same interview, that he felt hip-hop has evolved to fully incorporate pop music. This sentiment is evident across “Kauai” and was likely reaffirmed by his success with “V. 3005” from “Because the Internet.”

The “Kauai” side has a more coherent sound and theme than “STN MTN.” It feels aesthetically like Hawaii, something that you’d play at the beach, with catchy chorus to match.

Childish Gambino’s development as an artist since he hit his stride with his 2010 mixtape “Culdesac” is emphasized on “Retro,” which is a reworking of his own song, “Love Is Crazy,” off of his debut 2008 mixtape.

The new lyrics, over the song’s original beat, show more maturity in his writing and confidence in his singing ability.

The presence of Jaden Smith, who delivers two poems on “Pop Thieves (Make It Feel Good)” and “Late Night in Kauai,” is the only weak point of the seven tracks that make up “Kauai.” His presence as The Boy works as a concept, but fails in its execution.

Smith’s two poems never quite connect.

But, the latter track does see Childish Gambino delivering his most focused rap verse across all of “STN MTN / Kauai.”

Overall, “STN MTN / Kauai” is an interesting concept with unique execution. Had the mixtape and EP been released separately, the former’s flaws would be so glaring, as the clarity of what the “Kauai” side is trying to accomplish makes “STN MTN” look hectic. But, this too could be a conscious decision from Childish Gambino as he said in the same interview with Rosenberg, “being young and black in America is schizophrenic,” which he wants “STN MTN / Kauai” and the story of The Boy to reflect.

Author’s score out of five Read the full review and let us know your thoughts at www.thecrcconnection.com.

#TrendingNow Compiled by Ceejay Willis All photos are courtesy photos

“I think it’s awesome, there’s more diversity and opens it up to more cultures to identify with,” said Nicole Pedroso, a 20-yearold food science major.

Starbucks has announced their new fallthemed drink, which will be available on Nov. 12, the Chestnut Praline Latte.

“Starbucks rules the world,” said Samuel Smith, 26, a sociology major. “That sounds like a good mix and that is a creative combo.”

hots

Flu S

Disney announced their new movie “Moana,” which will feature the company’s first Polynesian princess of the same name. It is expected to release in 2016.

ks Latte

Starbuc

New Dis

ney Princess

With flu season beginning, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people recieve their flu shots.

“Yes, I get a flu shot because I think preventative care is key,” said Heather Ly, a 21-year-old art major.

PAGE 8

OCTOBER 30, 2014

>>Opinion EDITORIAL

Re-election of Gov. Jerry Brown would continue streak of education advances On Tuesday, Nov. 4 students will face a simple choice when they cast their ballot for the 2014 General Election.

A choice between two men vying for the position of California Governor.

That choice is quite clear: Jerry Brown should be re-elected for his fourth term in office.

While Brown has a great many accomplishments to his name during his first two terms in the late 70s and early 80s, it is what he has done since entering office in 2011 for education that makes the choice clear who should be our next governor.

Others might have written and proposed many of the education bills, it is Brown’s leadership and focus on education that has helped the bills pass through the senate and assembly so that he can sign them into law.

The state’s Cal Grant scholarship program received a boost, with the governor approving bills that are intended to increase the amount of some awards, as well as remove what one lawmaker called a procedural “flaw” that unfairly blocks some students from receiving the awards, according to an article from EdSource.

During the last election cycle in 2012, it was Brown’s support of Proposition 30 that helped the bill pass bringing much needed financial support to colleges that suffered during the economic downturn.

In a move to confront issues with sexual assault on campus, Brown signed SB 967 which has become known as the “yes means yes” bill.

It holds schools responsible for improving how they handle sexual assaults on campus, changes the meaning of consent to only count if a person actively says yes to any sexual encounter and requires schools to provide support services for the victims of sexual assault.

The Student Online Personal Information Protection Act, SOPIPA, signed by Brown in September prohibits online educational services from selling the data of students to third party organizations that would use that information to target advertising as well as create a profile on students for non-educational purposes.

Senate Bill 850 is the latest of bills that Brown signed into law.

The bill’s passage sets up a pilot program allowing up to 15 community colleges in California to offer bachelor’s degrees in vocational subjects not available at local four-year schools.

Brown’s father, the former Gov. Edmund G. Brown Sr., served two terms and was instrumental in the formation of the California Master Plan of Higher Education which has guided the educational system in the state since the 60s.

While his father laid the groundwork, it is Brown that has helped expand past the over 50-year-old plan to move education forward.

Brown has accomplished so much for the education system since his election, it only makes sense that if given another term that he’ll do so much more.

The system is on more stable footing but there is more work to be done to make sure that education moves back to the ideal of being available and affordable for everyone.

Education is one of Brown’s highest priorities and if students want to continue to progress, then Brown must be re-elected.

If your education is important, your voting decision is already made.

Go Brown.

HAWK

TALK

What piece of technology could you not live without?

Alvin Adamafio 18, Kinesiology

“One piece of technology I can’t live without, honestly it would have to be my cell phone. I have a girl that I like and I have to keep tabs with her every day.

Without my cell phone I feel like I am cut off from the socializing world.

I feel like without my cell phone I am blocked off from everything, but mostly my girl.”

Brian Fernandez 23, Music

“I have to say my phone because I text friends and family and I just can’t live without it. When I don’t have my phone for about five minutes I go crazy.”

“My cell phone, because it’s something that I use everyday and it’s how I connect to people. Without it I feel lost.”

Ray Amini 23, Health Care Admin.

Scan this QR Code with your smart phone to view the Hawk Talk video.

“For me it’s the cell phone. I am a music major and there are so many different apps you can use, specifically for tuning.

There are many conveniences for the cell phone; it makes life so much easier.

You can contact people when you have to be somewhere.”

Kamilla Acuna 19, Art

Compiled by: Naqshe Tahirkheli, Brittany Harden & Ceejay Willis

Editor in Chief: Scott Redmond Features Editor: Jelina Cortero News Editor: Heather Kemp Online Editor: Nick Valenzuela Opinion Editor: Nick Valenzuela Sports Editor: Scott Redmond Copy Editor: Emiliano Martin Faculty Adviser: Rubina Gulati

The Connection is an award-winning newspaper published bi-weekly by the Journalism 410, 411, 412 & 413 media production classes. 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 and California Newspaper Publisher’s Association.

Staff: Bobby Bishop, Emanuel Espinoza, Brittany Harden, Ariona Percelle, Naqshe Tahirkheli, Ceejay Willis

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 www.thecrcconnection.com connection.crc@gmail.com

Facebook.com/crcconnection Twitter: @CRCconnection Instagram: @CRCconnection Storify.com/TheConnection

thecrcconnection.com

Page 9

Pro:Woman exercising Con: Cancer battle not a right to ‘die with dignity’ reason to commit suicide

By Heather Kemp hkemp.connect@gmail.com Constant headaches, nausea, vomiting, seizures and more are all things that 29-year-old Brittany Maynard are dealing with on a daily basis.

Maynard recently grabbed headlines by announcing her bold plan to end her life and battle with brain cancer by way of euthanasia pill on Nov. 1.

This is one of the most brave decisions a person could possibly make.

Saving yourself and your loved ones the agony of watching as you waste away in unimaginable amounts of pain and succumb to the disease is a thoughtful way to leave this world.

In a CNN opinion article that Maynard penned herself, she recalled the “heartbreaking” moment that she and her family realized that there was no saving her and she was unwilling to go through torturous treatment.

That decision was made last April, and Maynard has since spent time crossing items like visiting the Grand Canyon off of her bucket list.

What Maynard is preparing to do is referred to as “death with dignity.”

It is only legal to do in three states,

according to the Death with Dignity National Center.

Some have argued that Maynard’s decision is selfish or have the audacity to compare what she is doing to traditional suicide.

She is not some mentally unsound person looking to take the easy way out instead of confronting her problems.

Doctors go through great care to make sure that the patients they approve to die with dignity weigh all options, according to the Death with Dignity National Center.

Deciding to die before you lose all quality of life is not an easy way out.

Maynard did not choose to have terminal cancer.

The average survival rate for healthy adults with glioblastoma who go through the painful tumor removal is only 14 to 15 months, according to Everyday Health.

Why spend the rest of your life doing treatments and surgery and prolong suffering when you could spend your final memories feeling as good as possible?

It is Maynard’s prerogative, there should be no questioning or condemning her decision.

By Brittany Harden bharden.connect@gmail.com Many people have heard of a woman named Brittany Maynard. A woman who has decided to end her life because she has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of glioblastoma stage four, also known as brain cancer. She has made it clear that this is not her choice and that she is not attempting suicide.

I believe that she is.

The very definition of suicide is the killing yourself intentionally, and I don’t understand how taking medication to kill herself is not suicide.

With her definition of suicide, everyone should kill themselves today at this very moment.

Every person that is of sound mind knows that they are going to die one day, but that does not mean that they would want to kill themselves just because they are are going to die sooner than later.

We live with hope and faith that we may get through another day.

I understand that she wants to “die with dignity” and that she does not want to experience that horrible experiences that come with battling cancer,

but I think that this is wrong.

I have to say there are many people that have lived through stage four cancer and that are living, walking testimonies to life today.

A woman named Peggy Kessler was given two months to live when she was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer and today she is a survivor, according to Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

She is now a 12-year survivor and is a volunteer for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

I believe that Maynard is letting fear of dying get ahead of her chances of survival. A defeatist attitude is the first step to failure.

Maynard says in People magazine that there is no cure for her disease.

My reply to that is that there is no cure for cancer, but that does not stop men, women and children from fighting it everyday.

I feel that she is just giving up.

In an article with People magazine, Maynard says that she wants to live.

Personally, if you really wanted to live and someone gives you a death sentence why wouldn’t you fight tooth and nail to stay alive if you are in fact going to “die” anyway?

Community college still offers ample opportunities

By Heather Kemp hkemp.connect@gmail.com In their junior and senior years of high school, young minds are forced to make a life-altering decision, where they want to attend college.

Deciding where to further your education is a terribly difficult choice to make. For some, it depends on where their friends are going, a family legacy or a dream school.

For those of us with little to no financial backing, the choice comes down to one thing, whether or not accumulating mounds of debt is worth going to a university right away versus attending community college first.

Starting off at a community college is undoubtedly worth it.

It is the best choice anyone with bleak resources can make for their future.

In the 2012-13 school year 45 percent of 7.7 million undergraduate students were enrolled at community colleges, according to the Community College Research Center.

Since the economy took a turn for the worse, many students have had to sacrifice going away to college and in turn, community college enrollment has risen. This is not a bad thing at all.

Despite what some may think, going to a community college can be just as real of a college experience as going

to a university.

Community colleges provide the exact same education, with smaller class sizes and more one-on-one interaction with professors for a fraction of the cost of universities, according to the College Atlas Organization.

There are still clubs and sports students can get involved in, and as good a shot of making friends as attending any school.

If family situations allow it, students can live at home or move out with roommates or friends if they crave a dorm-like atmosphere.

The financial strain is not as strong when upwards of $10,000 a year is not being thrown at tuition.

One of the only downsides of attending a community college is the chance of getting caught up in the system for more than the expected two years.

Honestly, making it to a university after two years at a junior college can be achieved by anyone if they properly plan and stay committed to their education.

Even if they do end up spending a third or fourth year in the community college system, there is no shame in that. That is one of the many beauties of community college, you can work at your own pace and not have to pay for it.

Plus, with most colleges being impacted, students who start at universi-

ties have no guarantee of finishing in four years either.

More than 60 percent of students who start at junior colleges transfer and get a bachelors degree, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.

And, according to the Community College League of California, students

who transferred into University of California or California State University Systems graduated with grade point averages equal to or better than students who started at four year schools.

College is a rocky road no matter what way you choose to navigate it, so you may as well pick the trail that will set you up for a better economic future.

PAGE 10

OCTOBER 30, 2014

>>Sports

Athletes keep up fitness routines on and off the field

By Naqshe Tahirkheli ntahirkheli.connect@gmail.com

Bandwagon jumping doesn’t make you a fan

By Scott Redmond sredmond.connect@gmail.com So you’re wearing a Giants cap on your head, got on your shiny new Buster Posey jersey and have a Hunter Pence bobble head nearby all ready to root for the Giants.

The only thing wrong with this scenario is that most folks either just purchased the merchandise or did not wear it until after the team got into the post-season and especially once they became the National League Champions and secured a spot in the World Series.

In fact, for many that chose to don themselves in Giants colors after their winning games, they probably haven’t watched any Giants games, or any baseball game at all the entire season.

These fans are referred to as bandwagon fans, and they seem to pop up in every single sport when the big games come around.

You’re not a Giants fan.

You’re not a Seahawks or Broncos fan because you watched them in the Super Bowl earlier this year. Definitely not a fan just because you watched and rooted for the L.A. Kings to win the Stanley Cup. Sporting events are not just some trending now topic to get all excited about when it happens. People can, but don’t call yourself a fan when you’re not really a fan.

True fans of a team are on the edge of their seat during tense moments, throwing things when a bad call is made or leaping up and screaming in joy when the team pulls out a win.

When a team loses, fans are crushed. When the team is at their best, fans are right

there cheering them every step of the way, even if from a distance.

They follow the team through their ups and downs, even if they know that their team is really sucking at the moment.

When the organization makes bad calls and tosses good players or rewards bad players, fans take it personally in many cases.

Sitting on the weekend to watch a game isn’t just something to do to pass the time, it’s a ritual of sorts. One that needs to be repeated.

Hell even the superstitions that athletes hold, wearing the same socks or eating the same food before a game in belief that it’s good luck, go over to fans.

They’ll wear the same hat during every game, or sometimes they’ll even not watch a game because the last time they didn’t watch their team actually won.

It’s good to be happy for a local team, as their success is usually good for the area.

Just don’t go out and grab a bunch of stuff to blend in and pretend to be a fan.

Someone pretending and only jumping in when the going is good is not fair. Real fans fight through an entire season to get the satisfaction of seeing their team succeed.

It’s just as bad as leaping onto a television or book series that is popular once it is popular and acting as if you have been a fan all along.

It’s disingenuous. It’s not some horrible thing to do, but it’s just best if you just stick to being the fan you are of other things. There is no need to fake it and jump on the train.

Those seats on the train are better left for true fans.

Trying to stay healthy and keep a solid fitness routine in everyday life can be a struggle for many. Not everyone has time to go to the gym.

Being an athlete brings many new challenges with health and fitness. Outside of playing in matches, practices and conditioning are essential to keeping in playing shape throughout the season.

“Our routines are pretty intense,” said freshman defender Vanessa Curtis. “We have basic conditioning and we try to get in shape for the rest of the season.”

While how an athlete works out on the field counts towards their health and fitness, there are other factors to consider.

Like with most other physical activities, staying hydrated is essential. There are more ways than drinking water to stay hydrated.

“I eat lots of fruit,” said freshman forward Kelsey Jant-

zen. “Fruit is good for energy and lots of water.”

Many of the athletes said they try to eat a lot of protein and carbohydrates before taking part in a game. They recommended food like pastas as acceptable for a healthy diet.

There is a lot that is required of any athlete to stay prepared for games, but freshman forward Nicole Sanchez said sometimes taking time for your self is just as essential as any other routine.

“I try to rest as much as I can on a weekend,” Sanchez said. “I take the weekends to my full advantage.”

Since athletes try to stay healthy and fit, whether they are on the field or not, a healthy balance of rest and activity is important even on their off days, much the same as for anyone that wishes to stay in shape.

Most of the women from the soccer team said that if fitness is involved even when not preparing for the big game, it is a good thing.

Many of the players also

said that they lift weights and run a few miles to try and keep in shape. The gym is almost like a second home to most over the weekends even if it is a short session.

Freshman midfielder Kate Burkhart said that there aren’t any special diets that she follows. She said that she just eats clean and trades the sodas for a water bottle which is enough to stay in shape.

Burkhart said that the main point to staying healthy and fit is to have good eating habits, and limit foods like Taco Bell for the weekend.

Staying healthy and fit can be difficult, but can be an easier path to walk when the right routine is found. Just like with non-athletes, every athlete has her own routine or ideas about health and fitness.

Burkhart said she feels staying healthy is necessary off of the field, but not to overdo it.

“On the weekends, I am just chilling at home,” Burkhart said. “I’m trying to rest.”

MEN’S SOCCER Oct. 31

vs American River*

4 p.m.

Nov. 4

vs San Joaquin Delta*

3 p.m.

Nov. 7

@ Modesto*

3 p.m.

Nov. 14

@ Santa Rosa*

3 p.m.

WOMEN’S SOCCER Oct. 31

vs American River*

3:30 p.m.

Nov. 3

@ Modesto*

3 p.m.

Nov. 7

vs San Joaquin Delta*

3 p.m.

Nov. 13

vs Sierra*

7 p.m.

* Designates Conference Games

thecrcconnection.com

Page 11

Teams suffer low attendence as season continues

By Scott Redmond sredmond.connect@gmail.com The roar of the crowd during any sports match is just as much of the whole experience as the the game itself, the athlete and even the snack bar food or drinks.

Professional and college football, baseball, auto racing, college and professional basketball and hockey are the most popular sports in the United States, with pro football coming in as the most popular sport for the thirtieth straight year, according to a Harris Poll. The Harris Poll has been asking adult fans about their favorite sport since 1985.

According to a poll by Gallup, an average of around 60 percent of individuals interviewed considered themselves fans of sports.

The excitement surrounding the World Series or the Super Bowl is an example of the popularity of sports.

With sports being so popular around the country it’s interesting that the crowds at Cosumnes River College

sporting events are so small.

Lack of knowledge of time and location is what Adriana Mendez, 19, an early childhood education major, said is the reason she doesn’t go.

“I don’t ever know when they are, and I don’t really know anyone on the team,” Mendez said. “I would go just to meet new people and to have fun, but I don’t ever go.”

Mendez said that advertising could help bring attention to the games.

“They should post flyers or have the game schedules spread out around school just so everyone knows about them,” she said.

Mendez is not alone, as Mark Evangelista, 22, a linguistics major, said that advertising would help with knowledge of the games.

“They should advertise on television, local television, where more people can see it,” Evangelista said.

Liz Belyea, the athletic director at CRC, said that since the campus is not a residential one, such as Sac State or UC Davis, it has been hard getting students interested in going to games out-

side of the playoffs. She said that larger crowds are more fun and they do see those at playoff games, which adds to the excitement.

“We run promotional games such as ‘Dig and a Dog,’ for Volleyball, where we give away hot dogs and a Pepsi to all who come to the game. We also run similar events for the other sports,” Belyea said. “The communication class on campus has also been involved in promoting athletic events.

Regardless of what we do, it is still hard to get students out to events.”

Belyea said that most students come to class and then leave before most athletic events start at 3:30 p.m.

She said that basketball and baseball games tend to draw the largest crowds.

“We normally get approximately 50 people to home games, mostly parents, family and friends of the players,” Belyea said. “We also have CRC groups such as the dance team do halftime shows at basketball, which brings in more people, maybe up to 200 in a game where we draw locally from the other team’s fans as well. We invite

high school and junior high teams to events as well, free of charge.”

While student support of athletics might be low, Belyea said that there is support between the various programs.

“Our teams often support each other as well, recently Volleyball has been coming out to soccer games,” Belyea said.

Compared to local major league sports, or even local college level sports, attending a sporting event at CRC is quite a deal since with a student ID card it’s free. For those without a card it’s $6 to attend, much cheaper than a Sacramento River Cats or Kings game.

On top of the fact that the cost is cheap, Belyea said that the games on campus are exciting.

“I personally think that it is more fun to watch our basketball teams than the NBA because of the spirit and love of the game that they have,” Belyea said. “Lots of unexpected gutsy plays.

We have had some incredibly close games and they are fun to watch.”

Ceejay Willis | The Connection

Small crowds are quite common at soccer games this season, including the slightly smaller crowd that attended this women’s soccer match against Sac City on Sept. 30. Extra bleachers were added this season to provide more seating for the fans but so far have gone mostly unused at this point in the season.

Page 12

thecrcconnection.com

Ceejay Willis | The Connection

The women’s soccer team plays on their new fields against the Sacramento City Panthers on Sept. 30. This is the second season the team has used the fields since their completion in 2013.

Athletic fields are holding up after two seasons

By Rukayat Yusufu Ryusufu.connect@gmail.com Over the last few years, Cosumnes River College has undergone numerous changes with new buildings and fields being constructed to bring new life and opportunities to the campus. In the fall of 2013 the men’s and women’s soccer teams gained new fields as part of that construction, supported by taxpayer supported Measures M and X. The completed project came with two 120 feet by 80 feet hybrid bermuda grass fields and a seating capacity of 200 people per field and new parking lots at both entrances of the complex for greater accessibility.

Previously, the teams had played and practiced on fields on the north end of campus, far from the athletic facilities.

These new fields were also used to host the 2013 California Community College Athletic Association Men’s and Women’s State Soccer Championships.

Crystal Vega, a midfielder for the women’s soccer team in the 2013 season, said she had the opportunity to play on

the new and old fields.

“The women’s soccer field is holding up really well, unlike other fields the women’s team have [had] to play on,” Vega said.

She said that other school’s new fields have been messed up fairly quick, but when CRC’s new field was completed the team wasn’t allowed to play on it as they had to wait for the soil to fertilize.

“The field is holding up pretty good, even though the guys who run the facility do not know how to handle the grass,” said Dominic Eslamian, a sophomore defender for the men’s soccer team. “[However] I think they’ve learned how to handle this specific type of grass, and they’ve done good, it’s one of the best field I have ever played on.”

Alexander Herman, a former forward for the 2013 men’s soccer team, also played soccer at American River College, and said that their field is “definitely a step down” from CRC’s field.

The men’s soccer team assistant coach Brandon Evangelista said he thinks the field is terrific.

“I think they, [the fields], are holding up very well,” Evangelista said. “The two soccer fields are about a year old, but they held up outstandingly even with having [the] Sacramento Republic training on them as well.”

Before moving to play at Sacramento City College’s Hughes Stadium and gaining their own stadium at Cal Expo, the Sacramento Repub-

lic used the facilities at CRC as their practice fields in spring 2014. The team paid a rental fee in order to gain a permit to use the fields.

While both former and current players and athletic staff said that the fields are very good, they did say there were improvements that could be made. Vega said that the lack of shade over the bleachers was an issue.

“They should make a tent or something because fans are dying in the sun, because our games are when the sun is just shining [right] on the bleachers,” Vega said.

Evangelista had his eye on the size of the section set aside for the fans.

“If there were to be improvements, they would add more seating,” Evangelista said.

Ceejay Willis | The Connection

Fields for both the men’s and women’s soccer were just two of the upgraded facilities that Cosumnes received through taxpayer supported Measures M and X. A field for the baseball team and another for the softball team, through the same measures, were completed and dedicated alongside the soccer fields in March 2013.