Clarion 2/22/12

Citrus College

Clarion theclariononline.com

Nothing but net Men’s basketball prepares for playoff run pgs. 8/9

February 22, 2012 Volume LXVI Issue I Photo illustration by Frank Ram Photos by Ricky Lin, Photo Department

2

News Editor

theclariononline.com

Sydney Presley

NEWS

QUOTE

News In Minutes

of the

DAY “Life is nothing if you’re not obsessed.”

- John Waters

ANNOUNCEMENTS Azusa Pacific University Public Address Azusa Pacific University has informed Citrus that they will be conducting two evacuation drills this week. As part of this process, their public address (PA) system will be tested. Because of the proximity of APU's emergency communications speakers to Citrus, we may be able to hear the test, which will include a siren and a test announcement. The APU administration and staff have offered their apologies for any inconveniences.

Automotive Open House

Technology

The Automotive Programs will be giving students the opportunity to learn more about the programs offered in an Automotive Technology Open House on March 7 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Technology Engineering building room 114.

Registration is required; contact the TE office at 626-852-6401 for more information.

Black History Celebration The Student Life Office and the Associated Students of Citrus College will be hosting a Black History Celebration in honor of Black History Month on Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Campus Center.

ICC Meeting The Inter-Club Counsel, a club program for on campus clubs will have its first meeting on Feb. 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Executive Board Room.

Board of Trustees Meeting The Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, which establishes policies, approves current and long-range educational plans and programs, and promotes orderly growth and development of the college will be having their meeting on March 6 at 4:15 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Meetings are opened to the public in CI 159.

February 22, 2012

LOCAL

18-year-old man stabbed at West Covina Mall During a fight between two groups of teenagers who were described as members of a “tagging crew,” an 18-year-old man suffered a stab wound to his arm during a fistfight in the 1000 block of West Covina Parkway, at the southeast end of the mall.

One of the taggers pulled a knife stabbing the victim who was taken to a hospital for treatment, West Covina police Lt. Jerry Pearman said. The suspect, described as a Latino boy approximately 17 years old with a thin build and a shaved head, was not found.

Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

Pasadena hosts Rock ‘n’ Roll half marathon Thousands of runners made their way down a 13.1-mile route at the inaugural Pasadena Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon, with combined elements of a concert and block party into a single day of activities centered on the Rose Bowl. The goal was to raise money to benefit children affected by a little-known family of illnesses caused by mitochondrial disorders. The race is part of the 14-year-old Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon series held in 23 cities throughout the U.S., Europe and Canada.

Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

Covina teen center opens its doors The Man-E Moreno Foundation’s “212 Training Center,” a nonprofit athletic and academic training center for San Gabriel Valley teens, opened its doors Saturday in Covina, with an emotional ceremony. The center was opened by family members of Manuel Joseph Moreno, a 26-year-old young graphic artist who was gunned down on Nov. 10, 2007. The foundation has worked with local youths and comforted families of other murder victims with the goal to keep young people on a positive path.

Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

STATE CA leads nation in green-tech venture capital funding California accounted for $2.8 billion, or 57 percent, of the $4.9 billion in venture capital from the clean-tech category of funding nationwide last year, according to a recently released analysis from Ernst & Young. “It's a good indicator of the innovation that can be found here and of the opportunities available in California," said Mark Sogomian, an Ernst & Young partner and leader of its clean-tech group in Los Angeles.

Source: Los Angeles Times

CA has the highest sales tax in U.S. California has the highest statewide sales tax in the United States at 7.25 percent despite the decline of the sales tax with the expiration of a temporary 1 percent tax, according to data from the Tax Foundation, a Washington D.C. nonpartisan fiscal research group that favors low taxes. If Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposal to increase the statewide sales tax by 0.5 percent is approved, California will move fifth highest combined sales tax.

Source: OC Register

Proposed california law would ban Food trucks near schools If approved, a law introduced last week in the State Legislature would ban food trucks from parking within 1,500 feet of schools from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The law is aimed at keeping food trucks from competing with school lunch program. City regulations enacted in 2007 already prohibit trucks from parking near middle schools and high schools and this law would also include elementary schools.

Source: Mission Local

NATIONAL Washington avalanche kills 3 skiers Three skiers were killed while making their way through about 19 inches of fresh snow on the back side of Stevens Pass when an avalanche hit, authorities said. Steven Pass is in the Cascade Mountains, about 80 miles northeast of Seattle. All were buried to some extent, but the men who died were swept approximately 1,500 feet down a chute in the Tunnel Creek Canyon area, King County Sheriff’s Sgt. Katie Larson said.

Source: Los Angeles Times

Gangs blamed as riot kills dozens at prison in Mexico A Feb. 19 riot killed 44 people in a northern Mexican prison, apparently stemming from a confrontation between two inmates from two of Mexico’s most powerful criminal groups. The riot was later found to be a cover for a jail break of 30 Zeta gang members who planned and executed their escape.

This follows a massive fire that killed more than 350 people in a Honduran penitentiary last week.

Source: The New York Times / Los Angeles Times

NYPD monitored Muslim students According to the Associated Press, Muslim college students have been monitored by The New York Police Department far beyond the city limits, including Ivy League colleges Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania after arrests or convictions have been made on terrorism charges in the U.S. and abroad who had once been members of the Muslim student associations. Although professors and students had not been accused of wrongdoing, their names were recorded in reports prepared for Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly.

Source: Los Angeles Times

GLOBAL

Iran halts oil exports to Britain and France Iran cut off oil exports to Britain and France on Feb. 19 in response to the Europeans Union’s decision to halt Iranian oil imports and freeze central bank assets. The European Union made the decision in efforts to stop Iranian nuclear enrichment and also pressure Iran’s closest ally, Syria. Though Britain and France depend on Iran for only about 1 percent of their oil, exports to the European Union makes 18 percent of their total exports.

Source: The New York Times

New York Times foreign reporter dies Journalist Anthony Shadid, who voiced those wrapped by the turmoil around them, from Iraqi families enveloped in civil war to young Libyans spurred to take up arms against a dictator, died Thursday at 45. He was stricken by an apparent asthma attack while preparing to leave Syria with his New York Times colleague, photographer Tyler Hicks. Shadid developed breathing problems while walking toward the border with Hicks and guides who had helped the pair slip into the country a few days earlier.

Source: Los Angeles Times

Iranian Internet access disrupted, raising fears of censorship Internet access in Iran was disrupted on Feb. 20in the wake of the nation’s elections next week, distilling fear of possible future censorship. Any foreign websites beginning with “https” were unavailable. The new government rules have required Iranian users to present their photo IDs and use their full names in cyber cafes.

Source: Los Angeles Times

C O R N E R

C O M I C

Steve Saysanith, Citrus College Clarion

February 22, 2012

Seminar guides veterans David Tate Clarion Sports Editor

C

itrus College hosted an orientation for its incoming freshman class of veterans Feb. 15, providing information designed to help former and current service members adapt to the rigors of college.

This is the third year Citrus has held the veterans orientation.

Those in attendance received information about Veteran Affairs benefits, class schedules, and financial aid. Speakers included former Marine and current Dean of Students Martha McDonald and former Citrus student veteran Jose Martinez Pila. McDonald offered some insight to the reasoning behind the orientation’s creation.

“We’ve been able to separate and outline in more detail all the resources available for veterans,” Mcdonald said. “We don’t leave anything out that’s offered in the regular orientation, but we’re able to go more in depth about the specific things veterans need to know.”

McDonald also announced the inception of a new Math 130 class specifically designed for vets. A $100,000 dollar veteran’s education grant donated to the school in 2009 by the Walmart foundation will be used to help fund the program. That same grant was used to help build the Veteran’s Center, located on the east side of campus adjacent to Hayden Hall. “[The Veterans Center] kept me active in the campus life. In that, I found other resources, like tutoring. I actually became a math tutor myself,” Pila said. “Being active in the campus helped me with my goals.”

Army reservist Gloria Lyles was pleased with the warm reception veterans receive upon enrollment at Citrus.

“I really like it,” Lyles said. “I actually got my associate’s from another school after I finished with the Army. I went to a private school and they had something like a veteran’s center, but it was run by students and nobody really helped us out a lot. This is really good to see how much support we have here.”

CLARIONnews 3 Reforms restrict access to higher education theclariononline.com

Daniel Hernandez Clarion Features Editor

S

tudents enrolled in California’s community colleges may soon be impacted by proposals to reform the system.

The California’s Community Colleges Board of Governors unanimously approved the 22 recommendations made by the Student Success Task Force on Jan 9.

The goal of the statewide overhaul is to increase the number of student transfers, degrees and certificates awarded.

The SSTF final report, includes plans to improve community college success rates by aligning classes based on the needs of students, increasing college readiness by collaborating with K-12 and improving the basic skills of first-year students.

“At a time when resources are scarce, our system must implement solutions that improve student outcomes, deliver an educated and trained workforce and ensure the efficient use of state investment in higher education,” said Jack Scott, California Community Colleges Chancellor, in a press release.

According to the final report, California’s community colleges are in fiscal crisis as a result of recurring state budget cuts, which have reduced spending for community colleges by 10.88 percent since 2009.

There are 2.6 million students enrolled in the California commu-

File photo by Natalie Miranda

Students who await in line for Admissions & Records, in the new Student Services Building, can soon become affected by new priority registration recommendations made by the Student Success Task Force.

nity college system, the largest in the nation. The system includes 112 community colleges as well as 71 off-campus centers.

Among them, only 53.6 percent of students successfully complete a certificate program, earn a degree or transfer to a four-year institution.

One suggestion made by the task force, which is comprised of 20 members, is to require students to create an education plan that outlines required courses.

Nohemi Camacho, Student Trustee at Citrus, said that the SSTF has great ideas to improve the success of students, however, they should consider all types of students since it is open access.

Another recommendation is that students be required to declare an area of study by the end of their second semester.

Kenneth Guttman, Ph.D., president of the Citrus College Faculty Association, said he is opposed to the SSTF recommendations. The SSTF is a knee-jerk reaction to a larger societal problem, he said.

“The Community College Master Plan is an open access policy.

This means people attend a community college for transferring, various programs, technical skills, additional educational and many other reasons,” Guttman said.

“We have the most diverse students in the state, and we now want

to push one kind of student?” he asked.

With the exception of certain state order mandates, priority registration is assigned according to the students with the most units. However, the task force has concluded that this procedure is a disservice to first-time students who are the most likely to be turned away because of lack of space.

The recommendation is to give top priority to first-time students and current students in good academic standing who have followed their education plan and declared a major, giving lower priority to students who have not achieved academically.

Camacho agrees that first-time students who have a career goal should be granted the opportunity to be able to have access to classes the same way continuing students have.

The final report has to be presented to and reviewed by the California Legislature no later than March 2012. If passed, the recommendations could be implemented within the next two years.

To access the complete final report with all the recommendations and updates by the California Community College Chancellor’s Office, visit http://californiacommunitycolleges.cccco.edu/PolicyInAction/StudentSuccessTaskForce.a spx

No imminent plans for strict smoking policy Sydney Presley Clarion Editor in Chief

A

smoking ban is not yet planned for Citrus Col lege, unlike the 10 UC campuses, and our community college neighbor, Mt. San Antonio College.

Carol Horton, Vice President of Finance and Administrative Services, said Citrus College had no present plans to implement such a ban.

She said she was not aware of this action being taken at these other schools.

In a letter to chancellors, UC President Mark G. Yudof called for a ban of all tobacco products, both cigarettes and smokeless products, as well as unregulated nicotine products.

These items will be banned on all UC property including residence halls and parking lots.

Mt. SAC’s stricter smoking policy is awaiting approval in which smoking on the campus would be outlawed, with exception of the designated smoking areas.

If passed, these rules would begin being enforced in June, with citations being issued for violations of the policy.

Sandy Samples, the director of health services and the head of the committee that proposed this policy, explains that Mt.SAC’s approach is much less strict than the UC’s smoking ban, but still has the health of the students in mind.

Many Cal State Universities have also adopted a similar “designated smoking area” policy, for example, San Francisco State

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

University, which began citing violating smokers a $58 ticket in April 2010.

Citrus implemented its first designated smoking area last semester, which is located on the east side of the Technology building.

This area was established after complaints from faculty and the need to comply with the state law requiring smokers to light up their cigarettes a minimum of 20 feet away from a building entrance.

Whether or not Citrus will take a more severe stance on smoking is unknown at this time.

“I think smoking is the least of students’ worries,” Jose Reyes, 20, undecided major said. “Even as a nonsmoker myself, it really doesn’t bother me anyway.”

February 22, 2012

theclariononline.com

Features Editor

THE SPOTLIGHT

Danny Hernandez

5

New year, better opportunities, better you Martin Cabrera Clarion Managing Editor

M

any students try to speed through their community college years, coming to campus only to attend class and complete their general education requirements.

However, Citrus offers many other opportunities to get more out of the community college experience than just transfer units.

“Community college is a great place to make connections and to grow your social skills because it’s a smaller population and more like a family,” said Lorry Williams, circulation coordinator in the Citrus College library.

“I, as well as other faculty and staff, am more than willing to write recommendation letters for students who volunteer and are involved.”

The active student starts with researching organizations and activities that fit their passions and interests.

Several campus clubs focus on specific causes.

For example, the Foster to Famous Club supports emancipated foster youth now enrolled

at Citrus. Other clubs focus on a hobby, such as the Anime Connection and Gamers Enter Any Realm [G.E.A.R] club.

“Whether it’s the Earth Club or gaming [G.E.A.R] club, all of them are intent on giving back to the community through fundraisers and community service,” said Art Corral, former student body senator on the executive board of the Associated Students of Citrus College.

The Inter-Club Council is sponsoring its annual spring Club Rush on March 7 and 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Campus Center mall.

Members of various campus clubs advertise and recruit new members.

ICC meetings are scheduled every Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. in the Campus Center’s executive boardroom.

Students seeking more information on current clubs or how to start a club can access that information in person or online at www.citruscollege.edu under student services and student affairs.

Student involvement beyond the classroom instruction is required for certain majors, such as performing arts and journalism.

“

We have a responsibility for each other as citizens and what we do now will affect future generations.

MEGAN HANS ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

”

“I encourage students to take classes in the different programs…not only is it a way to get involved but it’s also a great opportunity to explore avenues in your educational career,” said Megan Hans, administrative assistant in fine arts.

As a Citrus student, she began her studies as a music major but later switched to math.

Hans believes that your involvement around school aids in what you learn in class.

“You should apply to the real world what you learn in class,” she said.

Other students get involved by volunteering.

The library always welcomes volunteers to clean up the study

areas and shelve books.

Other students volunteer to help peers at the Tutoring Center and Writing Café located in College Success Center in the ED building.

“Volunteering is as easy as facilitating a study group in your classes and it benefits other students and yourself,” said Corral.

The Associated Students’ Campus Activities Board (CAB) provides students with many opportunities to volunteer.

CAB sponsors popular events such as Welcome Back, Rock the Vote, and the annual Food and Toy Drive.

It also co-sponsors cultural events, such as Black History Month and Hispanic Heritage Month. CAB meets every Monday at 2:30 p.m. in the Campus Center’s conference room.

This semester ASCC is recruiting students for their Volunteer Corps, a new project that assigns its members to educate their classmates on the various resources Citrus has to better their education such as the Tutoring Center, STEM program and other resources.

Students have to apply for the Volunteer Corps and will go through an interview process by ASCC representatives according

to Andrea Zapata, ASCC commissioner at large.

“We are looking for students who really care about their education and who will be committed to helping others,” said Zapata.

To apply or receive more information, visit the ASCC office in the Handy Campus Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondayThursday and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays, or call (626) 9148610.

ASCC Executive Board meets every Tuesday at 1:20 p.m. in the Executive Board Room of the Campus Center.

Students who participate in campus organizations and who volunteer often list these activities on their resumes and college transfer applications.

Those connections may have long-lasting benefits.

“I’ve grown up so much in character here and I’ve established so many friendships and connections that I know will help me in the future,” said Walter Galvez, ASCC vice president.

“We have a responsibility for each other as citizens and what we do now will affect future generations,” said Hans.

February 22, 2012

CLARIONspotlight

theclariononline.com

ASCC president prepares for challenge

“

David Tate Clarion Sports Editor

M

ichelle Mockler did not expect to become president of the Associated Students of Citrus College when she did. Regardless, she is ready to take on the new responsibilities after being thrust into the role.

In Fall 2011, the ASCC president, vice president, and a student senator were removed from office.

In accordance with the ASCC constitution, the remaining board members held a secret ballot, and former commissioner of public relations Michelle Mockler became current ASCC President.

“The transition from Commissioner of Public Relations to presidency was a large one… [but] it’s an experience I’m excited to have the opportunity to engage myself in,” she said.

It’s an experience I’m excited to have the opportunity to engage myself in.

MICHELLE MOCKLER ASCC PRESIDENT

Michelle Mockler

As president, Mockler is now responsible for scheduling all ASCC meetings, appointing committee members and helping to recommend a budget to the other members of the board.

Her peers saw her leadership qualities from the beginning.

“She had great ideas,” said for-

Job opportunities made

”

mer ASCC vice president Megan Bruins. “She really just stuck out to me.”

An issue Mockler will have to deal with is one many former ASCC presidents have faced— low student interest in ASCC measures and elections. When Mockler was first elected senator in June 2011, only 78 students voted of nearly 13,000.

Clarion OP/ED Editor

T

he unemployment rate for California is reportedly dropping, yet college students continue to rush to get a job to pay for tuition and living expenses. Finding a job certainly isn’t easy but a trip to the Student Employment Center can facilitate the process for students and alumni.

Located in the Student Services Building, staffers are dedicated to helping students find schedulefriendly jobs, both on and off campus.

Viewing available job opportunities includes visiting the Citrus website and clicking on “employment opportunities.” From there you can search postings and create an application. The website is updated regularly and employers are called every 10 days to make sure the jobs posted are still open.

Students who are interested in obtaining a job are welcome to come in during office hours and proceed through an informal

screening process to gather the student’s information. If the student meets the qualifications for a job, the Student Employment Service issues you a referral and gives advice on how to land the job.

“Be persistent and don’t get discouraged,” advises Tedd Goldstein, Student Employment Services supervisor.

Besides relying on the student employment center to help you find a job, going into general shopping areas, malls or wherever you would like to work is also helpful for finding a job.

Ashley Warren, child development major, found an employment opportunity at Citrus .

“I like it,” Warren said. “I get to meet new people.”

The Student Employment Services website offers tips and guidelines to create a resume as well as a cover letter. The website also offers helpful suggestions before, during and after a job interview.

The Student Employment Center is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

of our students,” Mockler said.

“These feelings should be listened to.”

At least one member of the student body wants to make sure Mockler backs up her words with action.

“As long as they’re planning to make more of a presence, I just hope they stick to that.

Being a student leader [means] you have to make a few sacrifices and one of those sacrifices is your time,” said former ASCC president Stefano Saltalamacchia.

“I would hate for them to make all these promises and not follow through with them,”he said.

“I would like to encourage Michelle and her board to actually service students this semester as opposed to just sitting in a leadership class,” said Saltalamacchia. “[But] I happen to think Michelle and her board are going to do a good job.”

Letter from the President

available to students Shannon Vigil

“We’re going to go through and let people know that elections are being held, [about] who’s running,” Mockler said.

“It’s also going to be up to every board member to go the extra mile to talk to students, classes, and make appointments with professors to come in and discuss upcoming events and legislative actions with their classes.”

Mockler also plans on using the new influx of cash from the Student REP Fee to possibly help establish set up meetings with local and state government leaders.

Students are given the option to pay an additional dollar at registration time to help the ASCC lobby and campaign for “legislative issues that affect and benefit community colleges and community college students,” according to the Citrus College website. “[The meetings] are to. . . explain the thoughts and feelings

7

Courtesy of Roy LaBomme

Welcome to Citrus College!

This spring, Citrus College will continue its 97-year tradition of providing outstanding academic programs that will enable you to earn an associate degree, transfer to a fouryear institution, or launch a career. Whatever your aspirations, our capable faculty and staff are eager to assist you in reaching your educational goals.

Citrus College provides access to a variety of outstanding academic resources that ensure academic success.

These include the Hayden Memorial Library, which houses more than 50,000 books, publications and audio-

visual materials and the Learning Center, where you can receive tutoring in a variety of subject areas.

In addition, the STEM Center offers tutoring in science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects, as well as information and support to students who are interested in STEM majors and careers. Study Abroad presents an opportunity for students to attend Citrus College in Spain, London or Italy, while earning units that can be transferred to a University of California or California State University campus.

Citrus College also offers new and improved student services programs that will facilitate your educational journey.

For example, the Counseling and Advisement Center provides both in-person and online services, such as orientation, verification of prerequisites and checking assessment test results.

The Admissions and Records Department has streamlined its processes, mak-

ing it easier for students to enroll and register.

While you are pursuing your academic goals, I also urge you to become involved in the extracurricular activities offered by the college.

The Office of Student Life and the Associated Students of Citrus College sponsor a variety of activities that will enable you to become involved in community service projects, meet new people and develop the leadership skills that will contribute to your future success.

Whether you are beginning or continuing your higher education at Citrus College, it is very important to remember that this institution offers the elements that are vital to your achievement and success. On behalf of the college community, I hope this semester will be productive and enjoyable, and I wish you the best in your endeavors.

Sincerely, Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. Superintendent/President

8

theclariononline.com

CLARIONsports

February 22, 2012

ROAD TO FINAL FOUR GOES THROUGH OWLS’ NEST

*Games to be hosted by higher seed at 7 p.m. In the event of a doubleheader, game times shall be 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Men’s basketball on the playoff road to redemption David Tate Clarion Sports Editor

A

86-75 victory against the Santa Monica Corsairs last Saturday capped a stellar regular season for the Owls’ men’s basketball team (25-1, 12-0 WSC) and secured a No. 1 seed for the upcoming California Community College Athletic Association playoffs.

With their top seeding, the Owls will maintain home-court advantage throughout the regional round of the playoffs. Head coach Chris Victor was named Western State Conference South Coach of the Year and sophomore guard James Walker was awarded WSC South MVP. “It’s a great accomplishment to get [the MVP]. I’m looking forward to help continue a great season and bring back a state championship for our team,” Walker said. He finished third in scoring for the WSC during the regular season, averaging 19.4 points per game.

The season has been an exciting one to say the least, with the Owls finding ways to win in every way imaginable. They came back from a nine-point deficit with 61 seconds left in regulation against Mount San Jacinto for an overtime win Nov. 19. On the road at West LA, Brandon Woods’ halfcourt buzzer beater gave the team a 9896 miracle victory. And just to show they can keep leads as well as come back from them, the Owls won their next home meeting by a

massive 22 points in a 96-74 home win. Coach Victor believes this will give the team a competitive advantage come playoff time.

“We’ve been in every sort of situation, down at the beginning of games, down at the end of games,” he said. “The experience we’ve gained in all those situations … definitely will help us when we enter the same situations in the playoffs.”

The Owls are peaking at the right time, closing out the season with three double-digit victories against Bakersfield, West LA, and Santa Monica. The win over Bakersfield also secured the Owls’ fourth conference championship in the last five years.

The playoffs are split into northern and southern regions. The top two teams from each region then advance to the CCCAA Final Four in Sacramento, where the north teams will play south teams in the remaining two games.

The regional round of playoffs could contain some intriguing matchups. If they advance far enough, the Owls could possibly face the LA Valley Monarchs in the regional semifinal. The Monarchs finished second to the Owls in the final conference standings.

The Owls said they set two goals for themselves before the season started: to win both a conference and state championship.

Owl freshman guard Kerry Carter had a solid rookie season, averaging 12.4 points per game en route to a WSC 2nd-team selection. He didn’t want to dwell on the award. Instead, he’s focused

on the bigger picture.

“The award wouldn’t mean anything without a state championship. It’s just a symbol of hard work,” Carter said. “I want that championship. It’s all I think about.”

If the Owls advance to the championship game there is a good chance they would see the City College of San Francisco Rams there. The Rams beat the Owls 83-81 in last year’s championship game thanks to a tip-in with just 2.1 seconds left.

Victor was noncommittal in choosing a hypothetical opponent for this year’s championship.

“Right now we’re not even thinking about [the finals in] Sacramento yet. We have to win three games to get there,” he said.

“Every game we play over the next three weeks is going to be tough.”

Sophomores Tyree Harrison and Brandon Parga both played in that championship game. Parga was second on the team in scoring and was honored with a WSC 1stteam selection of his own.

In the 2011 championship, Parga had an and-one opportunity waved off at halftime which might have swung the final tally in the Owls’ favor. When asked whether he would like to face off against CCSF for the state championship, his answer was decidedly more definitive than that of his coach.“You never forget a team that takes you out in a championship game,” he said.

The Owl’s first playoff game is at home on Saturday Feb. 25 at 7 p.m.

STATS LEADERS POINTS/GM

REBOUNDS/GM

James Walker . . 19.4 Kendrick Thomas . 8.3 Brandon Parga . . 18.2 Tyree Harrison . . . 8.1 Kerry Carter . . . . 12.4 James Walker . . . 4.7

ASSISTS/GM

BLOCKS/GM

Brandon Woods . . 5.3 Tyree Harrison . . . 1.5 Nolan Abernathy . 4.5 Kendrick Thomas . . 0.8 James Walker . . . . 3.0 Kerry Carter . . . . . 0.7

3-PT %

STEALS/GM

Brandon Parga . . .461 Kerry Carter . . . . . 2.0 Keyon Sayles . . . . 402 Nolan Abernathy .. 2.0 James Walker . . . 353 Brandon Parga . . . 1.5

WSC AWARDS Coach of the Year . . . . . . . . Coach Chris Victor Most Valuable Player . . . . . . . . James Walker 1st-Team Selection . . . . . . . . . . Brandon Parga 2nd-Team Selections . . . . . . . Kendrick Thomas, Kerry Carter

February 22, 2012

CLARIONsports

theclariononline.com

9

Ricky Lin, Photo Department

The 2011-12 Men’s Basketball team from left to right: Keyon Sayles, Royal Matthews, Brandon Woods, Brandon Parga, Kerry Carter, Brent Watkins, Nolan Abernathy, Kendrick Thomas, James Walker, Tyree Harrison.

Ricky Lin, Photo Department

Owls forward, Tyree Harrison, drives against East LA’s Rafael Morelos.

Ricky Lin, Photo Department

Owls’ point guard Nolan Abernathy takes the ball up court.

Quiet determination keeps athlete grounded David Tate Clarion Sports Editor

H

e would be easy to miss if he wasn’t 6-7. Even on crutches, he moved quietly. His presence is calming, rather than intimidating. “I don’t remember a time I wasn’t playing basketball,” he said. “I don’t know what I’d do without it.”

These are the words of Tyree Harrison, 19-year-old forward for the Citrus College men’s basketball team. At the time of the interview, he was on crutches, having suffered a broken leg in practice on Dec. 17, 2011.“Basically I just thought it was like another soreness you get by being an athlete,” he said.

Three games after the injury, he

Tyree Harrison

scored the game-winning basket on a tip-in at the buzzer against the Glendale Vaqueros, sealing a 78-76

victory. After collecting a game-high 14 rebounds in another road win at LA Valley, X-rays confirmed that he had fractured his tibia.

“It’s amazing,” Owl assistant coach Patrick Johnson said. “The guy’s playing on a broken leg and we didn’t even know about it. You wouldn’t have known it from his play, he was playing just as hard as he ever has.” The Owls missed Harrison’s skills during his absence. Before his absence, he was averaging 8.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game—both team-highs. In the five games he played prior to his injury, the Owls held a halftime lead against all five opponents. However, in the five games afterward, the Owls trailed at halftime.

Harrison is also the only member

of the team who finished the season averaging more rebounds than points, but that’s just fine with him.

“The defensive end?” he asked.

The corners of his mouth twitch upward. “I love it. I feel like I want to be that presence a team has to watch out for.”

The Owls also feed off the work Harrison does for them defensively.

“He’s real supportive,” said Owl guard Brandon Parga said. “[We miss] his presence and his energy. ” Parga, who is also Harrison’s roommate, benefits from his presence both on and off the court.

Johnson also emphasized Harrison’s versatility on the court. “He’s our only player that can literally do everything,” he said. “He’s very selfless. He’s all about the team.

During the Feb. 15 sophomore night Harrison put that versatility on display against the West LA Wildcats. In only his second game back from injury, he led the Owls in blocks and assists while posting an 11-point, 11-rebound double-double. The Owls’ decisive rebounding advantage helped propel them to a blowout 96-74 victory.

Having overcome his injury, Harrison and the Owls have an even bigger obstacle to face—bringing back a state championship to the Owls’ Nest in the CCCAA playoffs. The Owls lost in last year’s final to the City College of San Francisco.“Our main goal at the beginning of the season was to win state [playoffs],” he said. “Anything other than that would be a failure.”

CLARIONsports

February 22, 2012

theclariononline.com

11

Women’s basketball team forced to forfeit wins Martin Cabrera Chris Floch Clarion Staff Writers

T

he women’s basketball team forfeited 13 wins from their 2011-2012 season after the discovery of a clerical error.

The athletic department inadvertently failed to include the name of a returning sophomore on form 3, the official team roster, a violation that resulted in disciplinary action.

When the athletic department discovered the mistake, they informed the California Community College Athletic Association, which ruled every game she had played in as a disqualification, according to Jody Wise, dean of physical education and athletics.

In the first step of determining player eligibility, Citrus College athletic directors are required to fill out Form 1 for each potential student athlete. Form 1 includes information about a player’s general identity,

Citrus College Sports Information Office The women’s basketball team from left to right: (Back) Aysia Randall, Kristine Reyes, Jasmine Cox, Brianna Barfield, Antoinette Conwell; (Front) Wendy Caneles, Laura Guerrero, Julia Tani, Yyvonne Sanchez, Sarah Rebibo.

the school(s) they are attending, the sport(s) they are participating in, and proof the student is enrolled in 12 units and has at least a 2.0 GPA. Prior to the player’s participation in his/her first contest, athletic department officials then send the form to Citrus College’s conference commissioner.

The women’s basketball player in question met these eligibility requirements and her Form 1 was sent and received in time, Wise said.

The athletic department is then required to fill out the Form 3, the official roster, and send it to the CCCAA before the team’s first contest.

Softball team season starts Daniel Hernandez Clarion Features Editor

The softball team eagerly started the Spring 2012 season on Feb. 1 with a loss against Golden West, 4-5 and a win against San Diego Mesa, 9-5.

As of press time, their record stands at 7-3 with a Citrus roster of 19 players, three of them returners.

“Because they're so new it's almost like starting from scratch,” head coach Jackie Boxley said.

“They are very talented; however, they are just lacking experience right now.”

Last year's team finished the 2011 season with a record of 2315, (14-4, WSC).

This year's team has already shown dedication and “a whole lot of maturity,” Boxley said.

Boxley said in their first game, the Owls got a taste of the field. As the team wasn’t doing too well, the girls began to show team effort by standing behind each other through words of encouragement.

“We came back from behind four times last night. Had we started without the jitters, Golden West would’ve never touched us,” Boxley said.

“We actually had nine freshmen in the game, so there were a lot of jitters, but now we’re over them.”

Lauren Vargas, infield, said she wants to improve her hitting and fielding.

“By the end of the year, I want to leave saying I felt good because I did everything I could in the field,” Vargas said.

“I learned a lot from the girls last year on leadership that helped me bring the girls together as a team this year.”

Boxley said she's learned this year's team holds a golden key: unity.

“One of our goals, we feel, is

Daniel Hernandez, Citrus College Clarion Head coach, Jackie Boxley, left, advises her team on defining opportunity moments and to “roll with them,” making each stand out in the field.

“

One of our goals we feel, is that if we can play together as a unit, that’s going to work out JACKIE BOXLEY SOFTBALL HEAD COACH

”

that if we can play together as a unit, that’s going to work out.”

Boxley said.

“If they can come together, and push each other and get behind each other, it's going to make all the world of a difference.”

This year the team has shown to be more solid as the new players have demonstrated talent in their hitting and pitching, Boxley said.

Mercedes Menchaca, outfield, who played for Northview High School in Covina, planned to go to a community college in Nebraska, but said the

more she got to know Citrus, the more she began to like the facilities and appreciate the focus on academics.

“I'm actually hitting better since I've been here,” Menchaca said.

“I think we're all going to come together as one. We are all a bonding team.”

The team hopes to out-play top competitors such as Canyons and Bakersfield in Western State Conference games and make it to the playoffs.

“If we finish strong everyday, we'll be ok,” Boxley said.

Boxley said their approach in taking it game by game has allowed the program to grow.

The Owls' next home game is Feb. 23 against Santiago Canyon, who holds a record of 4-8, as of press time, at 3 p.m. at the softball field.

The following game will be on Feb. 25 at 3 p.m. against Antelope Valley, who, as of press time, holds a record of 3-2.

Admission is free.

Form 2 is only required for student athletes transferring schools.

After they corrected the error, the player was cleared to play in the remaining 10 games of the season.

The small error turned what would have been a 19-8 season to a 6-21 season.

“There should have been four or five more people double-checking and going over the forms,” Wise said.

Head coach Tamara McDonald turned the events into a teachable moment.

“We teach honesty, integrity and hard work…if you teach a certain way you need to live it, so we needed to turn ourselves in,” McDonald said.

The news was devastating for the eight returning sophomores who were playing their last games as Owls.

“It hurts to have all your hardfought wins erased,” sophomore guard Antoinette Conwell said.

“I’m doing my best in taking the most out of my sophomore year.”

Despite disqualification of 13

wins, the team remains a positive.

“It was a horrible way to end the season, but it doesn’t change who we are as a team, and in our hearts we have a 19-8 record,” sophomore guard Laura Guerrero said.

This is not the first time a Citrus team has been forced to forfeit games. In the fall 2011 semester, the football team fielded a player who played out of state, making him ineligible.

That team was forced to forfeit three games, turning their 6-4 record to 3-7 and costing them a Western State Conference title and a playoff appearance.

Although the two events are not related, the athletic department agrees it needs to do a more thorough job ensuring players’ eligibility status and reviewing all paperwork before submitting it to the CCCAA. “We have added a couple steps to ensure that all the correct information is on form 1 and 3 before they get sent to the CCCAA,” Wise said.

12

Entertainment Editor

theclariononline.com

Lauren Emery

February 22, 2012

ENTERTAINMENT

What will YOU do with your leap day?

Shannon Vigil

close 24 hours later.

Regular theme park admission is required.

Clarion Op/Ed Editor

A

tradition that started 2,000 years ago by Julius Caesar, leap year occurs every four years, giving us an “extra” day at the end of February.

This oddity in the calendar gives us an extra 24 hours to partake in topsy-turvy activities we might otherwise not when February only has the run-ofthe-mill 28 days.

Here is a list of things one can do in order to best take advantage of this leap day before having to wait until 2016.

1. Leap at the opportunity February 29 is the exceptional day for girls to pop the question, whether it is asking the man of your dreams out on a date or to marry you. If the man in your life is taking too long,

Can’t get enough of us?

Check out our online exclusives!

“Red Tails” movie review “Read Across America” info ...and much more!

All at theclariononline .com

Let’s be friends:

add us on Facebook follow us on Twitter for the latest updates @CCClarion Email us at ccclarion @hotmail.com

3. Leap into action Take advantage of your extra day.

Catch up on homework or get around to the to-do list that has been tormenting you for the past few months.

There is always something that must be done, even if it’s catching up on some sleep.

Don’t let your extra day slip by.

Shannon Vigil, Citrus College Clarion

take advantage of the opportunity. There will not be another chance until 2016.

2. 24-hour Disney Day The Disneyland Resort in

Anaheim and the Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando will be open for 24 hours in celebration of leap day.

The California amusement park will open at 6 a.m. and will

4. Birthdays Birthdays on February 29 are the most difficult to celebrate.

This extra day only comes around once every four years so make this birthday worthwhile.

Whether it’s your birthday or a friend’s birthday, celebrate this day in your own special way and have a blast.

5. Take a leap of faith Take a risk this leap day.

Do something out of the ordinary, conquer a fear or do something wild.

Climb a mountain, bungee jump or go somewhere unknown.

Whatever you do this leap day make sure to seize the day and live without regrets.

Find something we missed?

Tweet your best leap day ideas to @CCClarion #leapday

February 22, 2012

CLARIONentertainment

theclariononline.com

13

Female heroes are on the rise Lauren Emery

Clarion Entertainment Editor

H

ollywood is increasingly becoming a woman’s world.

Books, movies and television shows are being developed to focus on physically strong female protagonists.

No longer are lead women sitting back and watching the men do all the heavy lifting.

They are standing up for themselves and taking on the role of the woman warrior.

Female characters who were once characterized as weak and delicate are being cast in a whole new light.

For example, Snow White is typically known as the whimsical, animated princess who needs the help of a huntsman, seven dwarves and a prince to escape the clutches of a jealous evil queen.

But times are changing for the fairest in the land.

Two films will be coming out this year about Snow White, and none of them will be the typical story of a damsel in distress.

“Mirror, Mirror” starring Lily Collins, Julia Roberts and Armie Hammer scheduled for a March 30 release and “Snow White and the Huntsman” with Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth which will be released on June 1 will reveal a side of Snow White

with strength and sword fighting.

And what would a fairy tale be without a little romance?

Snow White, played by Ginnifer Goodwin, is also a character in the new television show “Once Upon a Time” in which fairy tale characters are transported into the modern world by the evil queen.

The rest of this year’s top heroine stories take place in the not-too-distant future.

In the film, “Underworld: Awakening” released in January, Selene, a rogue vampire played

by Kate Beckinsale, goes on a journey that requires her to fight both werewolves and humans.

“She's my favorite because she's a kick-butt vampire who can take care of herself, yet she is vulnerable. But it is that hidden vulnerability that makes her do the kick-butt things she does,” student Rachel Walker, 20, said.

Selene is a strong character and fights for what she believes in just like the next hero.

The “Resident Evil” film series is based off of the same-titled video game about a bioengineering pharmaceutical company that accidentally unleashes a deadly virus that turns most of the world’s population into flesh-eating zombies.

The virus also infected Alice, played by Milla Jovovich, a former employee of the company,

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

but somehow her cells bonded with the virus making super strong and super-fast with accelerated healing.

This makes her the perfect weapon to take down the major company, who not only destroyed the world but her human side as well.

Her mission is to help as many people as she can and keep them safe from the corpo-

rate executives who are in hiding from the diseased world while trying to harness her power.

Alice will be back in theaters this September in “Retribution.”

“I love watching movies that are action-packed with guns blazing while also having a chick in there that can fight,” said communications major, Kelley Oas, 21.

The youngest of the new

heroines is from the popular book series, “The Hunger Games,” which has been made into a film hitting theaters March 23.

The books follow sixteenyear-old Katniss, who is from a world on the verge of a revolution.

In this book series, Katniss played by Jennifer Lawrence, takes the place of her sister, who is chosen to take part in the Hunger Games, a battle to the death developed by the controlling Capitol, the chief city of government, in which they choose one boy and girl from each “district” to fight each other until only one remains, while the whole world watches.

But as she fights to stay alive she realizes how far the Capitol has gone and that it will never stop striving for power. She must win the game in order to stop the madness of the Capitol.

“I think that a hero is when something bad happens and you overcome it,” said Jacob Davis, 32, psychology major.

“Don’t whine and cry for someone to save you, get up and fight for what you want. This is a new time for women to show people what they’ve got.”

Books and films with strong female characters have seen a massive growth and the audience is not complaining.

14

OP/ED Editor

theclariononline.com

Shannon Vigil

February 22, 2012

THE FORUM Should I stay or should I go?

Obama proposes for students to stay in school until high school completion

Patricia Pena Clarion Staff Writer

D

uring President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address on Jan. 24, he floated a proposal that would require students of every state to stay in school until they graduate high school or turn 18.

While the majority of the states have enforced the law already, there are some that have overlooked the intentions of state legislators while attempting to do so.

Alaska, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland and Rhode Island were among those states where this legislation was considered last year. Only Rhode Island administered the law successfully.

According to the Pew Partnership for Civic Change, a civic research organization, 1.3 million students decide to drop out of high school before graduating every year.

Dropouts typically happen in households where parental encouragement is scarce or absent, and in which employment is preferred over education. As a result, a student’s odds of graduating are poor.

The individual, communities, and our nation as a whole are largely affected by the decisions of these dropouts.

The PPCC found that the average high school dropout makes 27 perecent less in income per year than the average high school

graduate.

David Tate “We also know that when Clarion Sports Editor students don’t walk away n President Obama’s from their education, more State of the Union of them walk the stage to get speech Jan. 24, he their diploma,” Obama said advocated a federal manduring his speech. date that would require all Besides the effect that students to stay in school high school drop outs have until the age of 18. While on themselves, they affect not this sounds like a great idea only their communities but on paper, the stark reality is the entire nation as well. that true education reform Almost 80 percent of is not so simple. drop outs will end up deThe dropout age varies pending on the government from state to state, but most for healthcare assistance, and allow students to drop out of course that money comes without parental consent at from us, the taxpayers.

Each time a student drops Shannon Vigil, Citrus College Clarion 16.

According to Obama, the out and becomes involved with drugs and crime the nation spends $1.7- rationale behind this nationwide reform is the 2.3 million dollars in crime control and health idea that students who are forced to stay in school do better academically than those who expenses.

If today’s dropout rate were to be reduced by are allowed to drop out. This is not the case.

A study conducted by the Rennie Center only 1 percent, crime in our nation would defor Education Research and Policy found there cline by 100,000 crimes annually.

Not only will Americans benefit from this was little to no impact in graduation or new proposal but students will also advance in dropout rates for schools with compulsory attendance to the age of 18. life.

In his address, Obama said, “When stu“When students are not allowed to drop out, dents don’t walk away from their education, they do better,” Obama said. more of them walk the stage to get their

I

diploma.” If this were the case, schools that already enforces his desired policy would be represented.

If what the White House desires is true education reform, more emphasis should be made on overhauling the inner workings of the education system.

A 2006 study founded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation revealed that one of the main reasons students drop out is because classes were uninteresting.

Students need to be motivated and it starts with providing more alternative education programs—and teachers that are capable of engaging their pupils.

Students also often drop out to help support their family. If the President is concerned with improving education, he should consider ways to improve the weakened economy first.

The financial strains which would inevitably result from the Congressional passage of such a law also raises some concerns. New money is needed to fund new policies, yet the President did not indicate federal funds would be used, which suggests states would be forced to bear the new costs.

Funds that should be used for improving the classroom would instead be diverted to upgrading new truancy policies. Harsher enforcement of laws already in place won’t improve students’ educational experience.

Financial aid is a priviledge, not a right Emily Rios Clarion Correspondent

C

lasses are being cut.

College costs are rising. as a result, students are faced with the dilemma of not only trying to add classes but also trying to find a way to pay for them.

Financial aid is a main source of revenue to pay for college, but this system was created to help students who are struggling financially is being abused. The financial aid system needs to be reformed.

In 2008, 66 percent of undergraduates received some type of student aid, according to a 2009 report released by the National Center for Education Statistics.

While most students who receive aid need it to fund their higher education expire tires, we

all know people who accept the money then use it for non-school related expenses. One form of student aid is the Pell Grant, a federal need-based grant awarded to undergraduate students. Students can receive Pell Grants for up to 18 semesters, according to the Department of Education.

At Citrus, if a student is eligible, it is possible to receive a $5,000 Pell Grant per academic year.

Chances are good that a student who qualifies for a Pell Grant will also receive the Board of Governors Fee Waiver that covers the cost of per-unit fees.

If a qualifying student's fees are paid with the BOG, there is no reason why he or she should need that much extra money.

Many argue extra money is needed for books and supplies Citrus student recieving the Pell Grant can now charge their text-

books and supplies to their Pell Grant balance in the Owl Bookshop from Feb. 22 amd Feb. 29.

But instead issuing the extra balance to students by check, the remaining money should go back into the Pell Grant pot to ensure that more money is available for more students.

Students receiving financial aid should also have to submit to grade checks. They should be put on academic probation and lose some access to financial aid dollars if they are not achieving satisfactory grades.

Some may argue that students from low income backgrounds need the extra money to help support themselves while they are going to school full-time.

If that is the case there needs to be a regulation that controls how money is spent and guidelines that students must adhere to to ensure

that funds are actually being spent to pay for housing, food or transportation costs.

For students who struggle financially, it can take longer to complete college. But 18 semesters, which could equal nine years, is a long time to offer financial aid awards of that amount.

Although information regarding income level and financial need are submitted when applying for financial aid, a tighter system is necessary. This will ensure that this information is accurate and will establish more appropriate amounts of aid awarded according to need.

Students, if you are accepting money that you do not honestly need, take a moment to think about those who do really need it for school.

In an economic climate where states are being forced to make drastic cuts to public education,

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

the financial aid system needs to be reevaluated to ensure that aid money is going to people who do need it to pay for school, not those who want some free spending money or a down payment for a car.

Check out our blogs!

-Games and food: Gamers’ Cafe by Austin Paul Adamson: foodandgames.wordpress.com -Reading and writing: Write. Read. Repeat. by Shannon Vigil: writereadrepeat.wordpress.com -Sports: Full-sports Press by David Tate and Martin Cabrera: fullsportspress.wordpress.com -Fashion: Collegiate Catwalk by Lauren Emery: collegiatecatwalk.wordpress.com

All blogs can be accessed through theclariononline.com

February 22, 2012

CLARIONforum Editorials

T

McClatchy-Tribune Media Services

day when people would “not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

By celebrating Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, or Asian-Pacific American History Month, we create an environment in which we continue to draw attention to the differences between us rather than eliminating them.

Continuing such observances based on race could translate to younger generations that some groups are worthy of celebrating while some are not, thus continuing the cycle of prejudice.

It is not to say that we should ignore racial strife, but if we

truly want to live in a color-blind society, our primary task should be to leave our segregationist monthly celebrations behind.

Educators should be encouraged to incorporate the teaching of African history within the context of American history.

Otherwise children may be confused as to why they are given assignments in February to learn about a person simply because he or she is black.

We should be celebrating all people who contribute to society year-round, regardless of gender, race, or religion.

We should not have to wait for Hispanic History Month to learn about the legacy of Cesar

Chavez or Jewish History Month to commend the accomplishments of Albert Einstein.

In order to create a more perfect society—which we are still far from— we need to come together as Americans first.

Actor Whoopi Goldberg once said: “I dislike this idea nowadays that if you’re a black person in America, then you must be called African-American.

Listen, I've visited Africa, and I've got news for everyone: I'm not an African. The Africans know I'm not an African. I'm an American. This is my country.

My people helped to build it, and we've been here for centuries. Just call me black, if you want to call me anything.”

When actress Michelle Rodriguez, who starred in the film “Avatar,” was asked about her Hispanic background, she replied that the question was irrelevant because we are in an age where it doesn’t matter what ethnic background she belongs to.

Instead she should be acknowledged based on her acting roles.

Such questions occur when we as a society still think of ourselves as divided into separate groups.

It is time to leave February as just another month and celebrate great Americans for who they are and what they have accomplished, not for what they look like.

Teams deserve better; go to games

O

ur sports teams need more support at games from our stu-

dent body.

The women’s and men’s basketball teams recently held their 2nd Annual Cancer Awareness Night during their games against LA Valley College.

On a Saturday night when you might expect there to be a busy gym full of fans, the crowd struggled to fill up one side of the bleachers.

It seems that the only people who come to games are family members, girl/boyfriends, and a few close friends.

The average attendance for men’s basketball home games in the regular season was 176 in a gym that seats approximately 2,000.

You would think that the basketball program was producing a bottom-feeder team by looking at the crowd. But it is quite the opposite.

After playing in the state championship game last year, this season the men’s basketball team ranks No. 2 in California and No. 5 in the nation among community college teams with an exceptional record of 25-1.

“The games are always electrifying, and they put out a championship-caliber team every year, so why would you not want to come support with a such winning

Shannon Vigil, Citrus College Clarion

team,” asked Martha Parga, mother of Owl guard Brandon Parga.

Regardless of their records, all of our sports teams should get more support from students.

Maybe the low turnout should be attributed to the fact that Citrus is a community college and that the Owls do not play on nearly as a big a stage as the universities that play on a national level.

“When you watch college games on TV the stadiums are always packed and you see nothing but student body…it should be the same here,” a fan said.

It also does not help that most students don’t appear to know anything about our Citrus teams.

There is not any advertising around campus, so the few students who do care how their teams are doing have to go online to the athletics website or read the Clarion newspaper, which is published only once every two weeks.

Bruce Barnes, who graduated from Citrus in 1956 and was a student when the Citrus gym was built and has supported the Citrus sports program ever since, attributes the lack of student support to the times.

“There was a different student attitude back when I was in school.” Barnes said. “Students really cared about what other students were doing, and the team was talked about all over town.

15

citrus college

Black History Month, a done deal he celebration of Black History Month should be eliminated because it creates segregation in itself. Instead black history should be incorporated yearround—into American history.

Carter G. Woodson, a student at Harvard University who in 1912 became the first person of enslaved parents to receive a Ph.D., is considered to be the founder of Black History Month.

The celebration was first established in 1926, after Woodson recognized the need to teach the history of African Americans in public schools.

He wanted to ensure that this part of history would not be forgotten.

Fast forward to 2012. Barack Obama is the first American President of African descent.

Blacks are widely represented in government, literature, film, athletics, and education.

Now, it would seem out of place to still implement an idea that was not common during Woodson’s time.

The fact that observances of racial and ethnic history are now divided by months is ironic.

Rather than celebrating our history as Americans, we are continuing to divide groups of individuals living in the United States.

Martin Luther King, Jr. said in his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, that he longed for the

theclariononline.com

These days, all students care about are their cell phones.”

Fan support is one of the major factors in giving athletes a home court/field advantage.

“When there are more people in the stands and you have more people cheering, the boys really respond to them by playing with more energy and intensity,” said Parga said.

Who knows if maybe just a little more student support could have propelled the men’s basketball team to victory last season in the championship game, which they lost by just two points.

Students have plenty of opportunities to support Citrus sports teams this semester with competitions scheduled in track and field, baseball, softball and men’s golf.

For all sports, regular season games are free, but there is a fee to attend playoff games.

So let’s get the spring sports season off to a rousing start by supporting the men’s basketball team.

Now is our chance to witness a special team that could very well end up with a state championship.

The Owls will play their first playoff game against the winner of Hancock vs. Imperial Valley.

Tip-off is at 7 p.m. at Citrus, on Saturday, Feb. 25.

General admission is $8 and for Citrus students, faculty and staff, children under 12 and seniors it is $5.

clarion Editor in Chief Sydney Presley

Managing Editor Martin Cabrera

Online Editor Sydney Presley

News Editor Sydney Presley

Features Editor Daniel Hernandez

Sports Editor David Tate

Entertainment Editor Lauren Emery

OP/ED Editor Shannon Vigil

Adviser Margaret O’Neil

Staff Writer Ashley Helm, Patricia Pena

Photographers/ Artists David Tate, Daniel Hernan­ dez, Ricky Lin

Page Designers Sydney Presley, Danny Hernandez, Martin Cabr­ era, Emily Rios

Photo Technician Frank Ram

Instructional Assistant Emily Rios

The Clarion is produced by journalism students and is distributed every other Wednesday during the semester. Ads are not endorsed by the Clarion. Editorials are the opinion of at least 75 percent of the Editorial Board. All other opinion is that of the writer. Views expressed do not represent those of the adviser, faculty, administration, Associated Students of Citrus College and/or CCCBOT. Libel will not be published. The Clarion welcomes feedback from our readers.

If you have any gripes, questions, or comments ... we want to hear from you! All correspondence must include your student ID#, major and signature. Letters may be edited for clarity and length.

First copy is free. Any subsequent copies are $1.00

CLARION MAILBOX 1000 W. Foothill Blvd.

Glendora, CA 91741-1899 Phone: (626) 914-8586 Fax: (626) 914-8797 Email: ccclarion@hotmail.com

16

theclariononline.com

February 22, 2012

CLARION

‘Dog’ sees Utah

File: Summer Stratton, who plays CB’s sister, strokes her brother’s face during dress rehearsal for “Dog Sees God.”

File photo by Natalie Miranda File: Jason Francescon, who plays CB in “Dog Sees God” puffs on a cigarette, during dress rehearsal in the Little Theatre.

File photo by Natalie Miranda

File photo by Natalie Miranda File: Chelsea Brynd, who plays Tricia in “Dog Sees God,” sneaks some alcohol into her milk during dress rehearsal in the Little Theatre.

Student director’s production invited to nationals Ashley Helm

Clarion Staff Writer

H

undreds of schools in the Western region of the country vied for the opportunity to perform at this year’s American College Theater Festival. Of these hundreds, only 10 productions were invited.

Citrus College student director Chris Aranda’s production of “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead” was one of them.

Ironically, Aranda was not interested in applying for the position of student director when it became available in spring 2010. It was not until he read the script that he grew eager to become the person who got to make “Dog Sees God” come to life.

Aranda, 23, got his start performing at a young age, when his parents overheard him having a phone conversation in which he was mimicking his grandmother. It was not until high school that he gave performing a second chance.

“I took theater basically just to fulfill a requirement and I realized that I loved it, but I fell in love with acting in front of actual people as opposed to a camera,” he said.

Aranda began performing at Citrus College in spring 2007 when he was cast as the lead in a production of Rhinoceros. He has since been in 10 main stage Little Theatre productions, including “Grapes of Wrath”, “Lysistrata” and “12 Angry Jurors.”

Although he describes the transition from actor to director as tough, it was a challenge that Cherie Brown, director of theater arts in performance, knew he was ready for.

“Chris, I thought, had a very clearly defined concept. He was ready to take on a challenge like this and it was the next natural step for him as an artist,” she said.

In order to keep the performances genuine and grounded, Aranda, with the help of his assistant director Kevin Figueroa, worked one on one with the actors, exploring parts of their real lives that they could apply to their characters.

His goal was not to alter them, but rather to amplify them. One of his biggest objectives was to create emotional truth.

“He works in a more naturalistic and raw manner. He doesn’t look for super polished, streamline actors,” said student Jason Franceson, who landed the lead roll of CB. The show opened in April to a three night sold out run, but it was not until eight months later that Aranda received the news that “Dog Sees God” had been accepted as one of the 10 plays invited to perform at ACTF. “I just laughed for about a couple of minutes.

I had nothing but laughter,” he said in his response to the news.

Aranda himself is a veteran of the festival, however this was his first time attending with a full-scale production.

One of the biggest challenges in this endeavor was putting the show back together in preparation for Utah, where the festival was held this year. With nearly a year having gone by, Aranda and his cast had to restructure their lives to accommodate a month long, four-daya-week rehearsal schedule. They also had to evaluate how they have grown and changed as people and how that might have an affect on their performance.

“It has been a challenging process, but work-

ing with Chris was the least of it,” said assistant director Kevin Figueroa. “It has been a labor of love from day one.”

“Dog Sees God” went on to perform for two full houses at ACTF and received critical acclaim from its audience and official respondents.

After ACTF, Aranda plans to put theater on the backburner while he focuses on other priorities. In addition to focusing on school and working towards transferring, he is currently a character performer at the Disneyland Resort.

“If an opportunity presents itself I’ll take it, but I don’t think that I’m going to be actively seeking out theater for a while, at least not before those other two priorities are taken care of,” Aranda said.

“Dog Sees God,” written by Bert V. Royal, is a dark satire that uses parodies of the popular Peanuts gang, now teenagers, to display the growing pains brought on by adolescence. The story follows CB who, after the passing of his dog, begins to question the existence of an afterlife and winds up finding solace in the last person he thought imaginable. The story contains mature subject matter dealing with drug use, teen violence, sexual identity and suicide.