Clarion 12/8/2010

THECLARION CITRUS COLLEGE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2010

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INSIDE THIS EDITON

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CAMPUS Craig Stremel, 22, received an opportunity from NASA to participate in a three-day-pilot program at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala.

ENTERTAINMENT

PG 20 The ‘Christmas Is...’ student performance took place last weekend in the Haugh Performing Arts Center. ‘Christmas Is...’ has been an annual performance for the last ten years.

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CAMPUS The first annual film festival took place on Dec. 3 in the Handy Campus Center. Students enjoyed nachos, pizza and soda as they watched six films, which included four short films and two music videos, most of the work of Citrus college students.

Can’t get enough of the veggies versus meats battle? Check out the opposing views on our website at theclariononline.com.

>>VIDEO: RESOLUTION What’s your resolution for 2011? How has this year changed you? Check out what students had to stay in this video on theclariononline.com.

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2010

SPOTLIGHT PG 20

The Parousia, a local band, has just released their first self-titled recording: ‘The Parousia EP’

VOLUME LXIV, ISSUE 1

INSIDE THIS EDITION CAMPUS

ENTERTAINMENT

PERSPECTIVES

Superintendent/ President Geraldine M. Perri, Ph. D., led the fall convocation held on Aug. 27, when she delivered her third annual State of the College address.

Don’t know where to get your school supplies? Everything seem too expensive? The Clarion staff has done the research to figure out where to get you the best deals.

Classes are full. Parking is a nightmare. Books are expensive. The budget cuts are affecting the professors just as much as the students and it doesn’t seem to be getting easier. There isn’t a solution to our problem

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NEWS BRIEFS LOCAL

ANNOUCEMENTS SEXUAL BATTERY NEAR COLLEGE CAMPUS On Friday, December 3, 2010, at approximately 6:30 a.m., a female student reported that an unknown male approached her as she walked east bound on Foothill Boulevard near the Azusa Pacific University west campus.

The suspect grabbed the female inappropriately. The student was not injured as a result of the incident. Suspect Information: Hispanic male approximately 5’3" medium build Round face approximately 40 years of age thinning mustache short dark brown or black hair with product (either spikey or slicked back hairstyle) wearing a striped long sleeved sweater with different shades of brown blue jeans.

We strongly urge all members of the Citrus community to contact the Department of Campus Safety (626) 914-8611, Glendora Police Department (626) 9148250, Azusa Police Department (626) 812-3200 or Azusa Pacific University Department of Campus Safety (626) 815-3898 immediately upon witnessing any unusual or suspicious activity.

VETERANS HOLIDAY PROJECT The Citrus College Veterans Center has an annual tradition of putting together Christmas packages for our homeless warriors, a project started in 2007 at the Harbor Lights Shelter on Skid Row in Los Angeles. Items that are being seeked are hoodies, blankets, socks, gloves, personal hygiene products, Christmas candy and other comfort items.

Unwrapped items can be dropped off at our Veteran’s Center, located at ED 248. The deadline is Dec. 20. For further information call the Veterans Center at (626) 852-6421 or email bsolheim@citruscollege.edu.

FOSTER TO FAMOUS FUNDRAISER Foster to Famous is holding a fundraiser at Domenico’s Restaurant in Glendora on Thursday, Dec. 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Mention “Foster to Famous” Fundraiser and 20 percent of your bill goes to the club to help feed and support foster youth education and field trip expenses.

FREE SELF-DEFENSE CLASS FOR WOMEN Project Sister Family Services and Citrus College Student & Association Foster to Famous will be presenting a self-defense class for women. The event is free and will be held in the Citrus College Campus Center Mall on Friday, Dec. 10 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. To reserve your spot call Lilian Saldana at (626) 848-1324.

DECEMBER 8, 2010

Arrests made in Rose Bowl brawl

Fire in complex building

Police announced Tuesday the arrests of three more people associated with a brawl at the Rose Bowl Saturday that left five people injured.

Arrested on suspicion of attempted murder were Arthur Cisneros, 25; Anthony Cisneros, 22; and Akira Cisneros, 24. All were booked by Pasadena police Monday night and remain in custody in lieu of $1 million bail, Pasadena police Lt. Tracey Ibarra said. The additional arrests were the result of "some witness statements and a review of the video on YouTube, Ibarra said.

Authorities on Monday charged two men arrested in connection the drunken brawl both were charged with resisting an officer and other counts, officials said.

A blaze at an apartment complex caused residents to be displaced overnight, officials said.

Firefighters put out flames at an apartment complex in the 800 block of South Citrus Avenue near East Arrow Highway. The fire was reported just before 5:30 p.m. No residents were reported injured, but emergency personnel had to disable utilities to fight the fire, which knocked out power throughout the nine-unit complex, officials said.

Residents were housed overnight by the city and the American Red Cross. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Two other units received only minor smoke damage.

Source: SGV Tribune

Candidates for Glendora City Council The list of potential candidates for the Glendora City Council continues to widen. Cynthia Natalie Carrasco is the newest person to pull papers to run for the council. Those who pulled papers earlier are John Fields, Ed Brubaker, Erica Landmann-Johnsey, Joe Santoro, Jason Nagy and incumbents Ken Herman and Doug Tessitor. There are three council seats up for election in March. The deadline to submit papers to run for council is 4:30 p.m. Monday. Thus far, only Santoro, Fields and Tessitor have turned in their paperwork and officially qualified for the ballot

Source: SGV Tribune

Source: SGV Tribune

NATIONAL

Pearl Harbor ceremony

Elizabeth Edwards dies at 61

Conter is part of an aging and ever-dwindling contingent of survivors still attending the annual commemorations. About 120 of the estimated 2,000-4,000 Pearl Harbor veterans still alive returned on Tuesday. Sailors lined the deck of the USS Chafee and saluted as the guided missile destroyer passed between the sunken hull of the USS Arizona and the grassy landing where the remembrance ceremony was held. After the ceremony, the survivors, some in wheelchairs, passed through a "Walk of Honor" lined by saluting sailors, Marines, airmen and soldiers to enter a new $56 million visitor center that was dedicated at the ceremony.

Elizabeth Edwards, who closely advised her husband in two bids for the presidency and advocated for health care even as her marriage publicly crumbled, died Tuesday after a six-year struggle with cancer. She was 61. She died at her North Carolina home surrounded by her three children, siblings, friends and her estranged husband, John, the family said. The family asked that donations be made to the Wade Edwards Foundation which benefits the Wade Edwards Learning Lab. He was the Edwards' teenage son who died in a car accident.

Source: SGV Tribune

Source: MSNBC.com

Frank McCourt not sole owner of Dodgers A judge has ruled that a postnuptial marital agreement giving sole ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers to Frank McCourt is not valid, a spokesman for his estranged wife Jamie McCourt said Tuesday. Mark Fabiani told The Associated Press the decision means the Dodgers could be shared under California's community property law. Fabiani said he saw the decision issued by Superior Court Judge Scott Gordon but had not yet reviewed the entire document. The ruling came after an 11-day trial that focused on whether the signed pact between Jamie and Frank McCourt in 2004 should decide who owns the team. Frank McCourt contends the agreement gives the Dodgers to him.

Source: SGV Tribune

INTERNATIONAL Israel battles forest fire A rare outpouring of international support for Israel helped the nation battle its worst-ever forest fire Friday. According to Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld, the death toll was revised to at least 41 people. They included 36 prison guards whose bus was engulfed in flames Thursday as they rushed to help evacuate a nearby prison. The toll includes two police officers who were trapped in the same firestorm that ensnared the bus. One passenger car reportedly was able to escape only by speeding through the flames. Four rescue workers remain missing, Rosenfeld said. Nearly 7,000 acres have burned and 17,000 people have been evacuated from towns around Carmel Forest, near the northern port city of Haifa.

Obama Urges China to Check North Koreans A senior administration official said Monday that President Obama telephoned President Hu Jintao, president of the People's Republic of China and warned that China was emboldening its unruly neighbor by not publicly challenging its behavior, in a sign of mounting tension between the United States and China over North Korea. Mr. Hu did not offer any specific assurances to Mr. Obama, Source: New York Times

Talks begin on Iran's nuclear program Six major powers began talks with Iran in Geneva on Monday in their latest attempt to persuade Teheran to accept limits on the nuclear research program the other nations suspect is aimed at building a bomb.The meeting began about 10 a.m., after representatives of the European Union, Iran, China, the United States, France, Britain and Germany arrived in a heavy rain. The meeting began with the six powers presenting their arguments.

Source: Los Angeles Times

Source: Los Angeles Times

CITRUS COLLEGE CLARION Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Campus Editor Entertainment Editor Sports Editor Perspectives Editor

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Richard Morales Nancy Alkana Rachel Fuller Israel Mejia Jonanthan Petitt Jordan Ziegler Cheyenne Scharff

Emily Rios Frank Ram Stacy Long Margaret O’Neil Emily Rios Austin Paul Adamson

Susana Guitron Austin P. Adamson Breanna Simental Samantha Lopez Donna Davey Emilio Buenrostro Sydney Presley

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.

DECEMBER 8, 2010

CAMPUS

3 Kristin Lacuesta

News & Features Editor - kristin.lacuesta@gmail.com

Talent show scheduled this winter Kristin Lacuesta Clarion Campus Editor

The Citrus College Foundation and department of Fine and Performing Arts are hosting the first ever Valley’s Got Talent fundraiser on Sunday Jan. 30, 2011 at 2 p.m. in the Haugh Performing Arts Center.

Applications are currently being accepted until Friday Dec. 10. Only performers ages 10 and up are allowed to apply, and animal acts are not encouraged.

Auditions are scheduled to take

place on Dec. 15 and Dec. 16 and will be conducted by a panel of music and television industry professionals.

According to the Citrus College website, “20 acts will then be chosen to perform and compete for prize money of $1,000 for first place and $500 for first runner-up.

The 20 finalists will receive a one-on-one coaching session with a professional artist, video taping of the coaching session, a chance to perform on stage in front of 1,400 people, the opportunity to be judged by television and movie industry

professionals and the opportunity to perform at Citrus College in the future.

The money raised for this event will go to the Citrus College Foundation and will benefit students in the Performing Arts Department.

“What makes this most exciting is that it is similar to the shows on television,” said June Stephens, executive director of development and external relations.

“It is an opportunity for everybody to showcase their talent,” Stephens said.

According to Stephens the Foun-

dation has been soliciting businesses and individuals to contribute to the fundraiser and have been advertising on the San Gabriel Valley Tribune website.

Posters, flyers and announcements have been posted all throughout the Citrus campus to encourage people to either apply or purchase tickets to attend the show.

The Foundation offered sponsorship opportunities for business and organizations early this year in Oct. Some of the sponsors include, HMC Architects with a donation of $5,000 and Pepsi Cola with $2,500.

The Associated Students of Citrus College, Citrus College Alumni Association, Board of Trustee member Joanne Montgomery and the Citrus College Owl Book shop, all are sponsors of the event, donating $1,000 each.

One of the benefits of being a sponsor is featuring the logo of the business or organization on the stage at the event.

To print out an application visit www.citruscollege.edu/foundation.

To purchase tickets for Valley’s Got Talent visit www. haughpac.com.

Tickets for all ages cost $20.

Refusal leads to talk of new policies Erica Irigoyen Clarion Managing Editor

Efforts to improve a Student Health Center response protocol that has been in place for two years were prompted by a recent incident involving a student who fainted but then quickly recovered.

On Nov. 29, a student collapsed in a psychology 101 class taught by Kenneth Guttman, Ph.D. professor of psychology. Guttman was teaching a class in the Hayden Health building—the heath office is located in the same facility.

Guttman ran out of his classroom and into the health office and asked for help from the health center personnel.

Apparently according to protocol, the campus nurse, Shauna Bigby refused to assist citing risk of liability in helping students who are not physically inside the health office. For some time, Guttman struggled to find assistance for his student.

“I came in from my class that is literally 20 feet away from the health office and asked for help, and they replied with ‘we don’t leave the office to assist students,’” Guttman said. “I argued with them for five minutes, and I was barely able to get them to call 911.”

Health center personnel apparently called the campus Safety Office at approximately 8:36 a.m. A safety officer arrived at the HH building at 8:50. By that time, the

student’s mom had arrived to the scene to take her home.

According to Martha McDonald, dean of students, health emergency response protocol is as follows: Per student health center’s policy and procedure and campus safety emergency procedures, campus safety personnel are identified as first responders. As first responders, campus safety initiates contact with the fire department/paramedics and provides the exact location of the emergency. Campus safety officers are trained in first aid.

“Although the incident occurred close to the health center, policies are in place to ensure the welfare of students,” McDonald said.

As a result of this incident, the Student Health Center’s protocol on assisting students outside of the health office are now being evaluated for possible revisions, McDonald said.

Vice President of Student Services, Dr. Jeanne Hamilton believes that revisiting this protocol is necessary and a good idea for the safety of students.

“Although this policy looks good on paper, there are always ways to make it more effective,” Hamilton said.

According to Michael Hurtado, Ed.D., dean of social and behavioral sciences, the campus nurse’s decision was based on the policy which says that regardless of the situation, health center personnel are not to leave their office and go to

Austin Paul Adamson, Citrus College Clarion

On Nov. 29 just after 8:30 a.m., a student collapsed in a psychology 101 class, taught in the classroom attached to the health center. The nurses could not come out of the health center to help the student because of the current policy.

other classrooms because in doing so, they risk missing phone calls.

“I understand if a nurse can’t leave the office to go help a student on the other side of campus,” Guttman said. “But my student was 20 feet away from the office. And on top of that, there were two people in the office, so no calls would have been missed.”

Bigby declined to comment about the event or explain the liability limitations that she was not willing to risk.

Students who witnessed the event reacted strongly to the fact that the nurse did not take action to assist their classmate.

“I understand this policy, but the least that they could have done was come outside to give a quick assessment,” said 21-year-old Citrus College student Jason Peacock. “Putting myself in the situation, my mom would have gone crazy if that had happened to me.”

Students said they were relieved that nothing serious had occurred

because there would have been no qualified personnel to assist.

Guttman said that he hopes something will be done about what he considers a less-than-perfect policy.

“Discretion is really all I have to say,” Guttman said. “I wish that the nurses would just use discretion when deciding whether or not to assist a student outside of the health office.”

Child Development Center acts as Secret Santa Sydney Presley Susea Guitron Clarion Staff Writer

Orfalea Child Development Center is sponsoring an annual holiday program, to bring Christmas joy to families of children enrolled in the program.

“Adopt A Family” is designed to serve single parents who are students at Citrus College, to make sure Christmas happens in their homes.

Five families are selected from each child development center classroom and randomly adopted either by a campus department

or by individual staff member.

Information about the family is then provided to each adopter such as number of siblings, the family members’ ages and gender, parent information as well as guidance for gift shopping.

Adopters take on the role of a Secret Santa and gather Christmas presents for each family member.

Dr. Mickie Allen, director of the Child Development Center, said that this year she plans to give her two office staffers elf hats to be worn on the day the families pick up their presents.

“My office sits right outside where the families pick up their presents, and to hear how thankful they are is just an amazing experience,” Allen said.

“I remember this dad came in and just sat there and literally cried and thanked us for giving his family Christmas. He had to stay in the office while he pulled himself together before he picked up his child from his classroom.”

Program supervisor, Tena Pavehouse works with Allen to make this program a success.

“The whole campus actively

participates in this wonderful program,” Pevehouse said. “We even get emails from different departments wanting to adopt a family way before we send out the letter about the program!”

Secretary, Emmy Madrid will act as one of the Allen’s Elves along with Jennifer Mora, an administrative clerk, when the adopted families come in to receive their presents. “ I have seen it in the past… the emotions and reactions are incredible,” Madrid said. “It’s a true blessing to see how surprised these families are, and I’m just

honored to be a part of it.”

The children’s development center help more than 50 families have a special Christmas provided by a special Secret Santa.

Faced with financial constraints, some schools and other organizations have discontinued events similar to this one. Fortunately, Citrus has maintained this tradition and hopes to continue it for many more years.

More information about the program is available through the Child Development Center at (626) 914-8501.

DECEMBER 8, 2010

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College set to hire full-time faculty for spring Nancy Alkana

Clarion Staff Writer

This semester Citrus is extremely close to being out of compliance with state laws and could be facing fines if the number of full-time faculty required does not get hired, one of the challenges the college is tackling this year.

In Spring 2011 the college expects to hire eight full-time faculty members to avoid these fines.

Every year a mandatory Faculty Obligation Number is determined for each college by the state.

The California Community College system is required to maintain a full-time to part-time faculty ratio of 75:25.

This ratio represents a goal of having 75 percent of classes taught performed by full-time faculty to 25 percent by parttime faculty.

Failure to meet this obligation may result in a fine of $64,793 for each full-time faculty member below the required FON. The positions identified by faculty needs are in the following departments: nursing, English, mathematics, commercial

dance, microbiology, esthetician, and general biology.

Currently Citrus is undergoing the interview process to fill these positions.

Dr. Robert Sammis, director of human resources, explained that the hiring process is very complicated and many different committees are involved.

The interview process is taking place over the next couple weeks and in January the interviewees will have final interviews with Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D., superintendent/president of Citrus College.

“The hiring committees are getting very creative,” Sammis said.

“Some are having the interviewee conduct their own hands-on teaching styles by having them teach a class on the spot.”

The Fifty Percent Law (Education Code 84362) requires "there shall be expended each fiscal year for payment of salaries of classroom instructors by a community college district, 50 percent of the district's current expense of education."

According to the California Federation of Teachers organization website, “The Faculty

and College Excellence legislation is an effort to improve the quality of education in California's community colleges and state universities by reinforcing a strong core of regular, continuing faculty, and addressing the lack of equity in pay and benefits for the increasing numbers of part-time and temporary fulltime faculty.”

The law’s main intention is to make all districts live up to the 75:25 ratio and the fifty percent law but clearly with the state budget crisis it is difficult to enforce it in the states community colleges.

It is a huge issue across community colleges,” Sammis said.

“Regardless, hiring eight new faculty is something that should be done. It its the right thing to do to ensure we are prepared for following year. ” Roberta Eisel, full-time faculty member and Academic Senate member said, “ The College is being very thoughtful on the balance of hiring new faculty. Very cautious though as the process goes forward.”

Currently there are 169 fulltime faculty members and 71.83 part-time.

Courtesy of Citrus College

Geraldine Perri, Ph.D., superintendent/president of Citrus College will be conducting the final interviews with the candidates for hiring in Spring 2011.

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DECEMBER 8, 2010

Producer behind the music Emilio Buenrostoro Yusuf Ali Clarion Staff Writers

There’s a much greater meaning to music than the lyrics you hear. For one Citrus College student, music is a way to express himself through beats.

Chris Charles, 19, from Walnut, California, is a local music producer who has collaborated with and produced music for local music artists throughout the area.

What started out as a hobby during his sophomore year of high school in 2006, has transformed into a full time passion and dream.

“It was just something that I wanted to do,” Charles said. “To be honest, I saw other people doing it and it made me want to try it out.”

After graduating from Walnut High School in 2009, Charles enrolled at Citrus to take part in the school’s recording technology program.

“It was either here or Mt. Sac,” said Charles. “Although I live right

Emilio Buenrostoro, Citrus College Clarion

Citrus student Chris Charles, 19, has followed his passion and turned his love for music into a full time job as a local music producer.

next to Sac, I knew Citrus had a pretty good rep for its recording tech program.”

What makes Charles unique from other producers throughout the area is his ability to play the keyboard. Not to mention he also has his own studio in his house, where he spends most of his time making and mixing hip-hop, jazz, and reggae music.

“What many people don’t know is that he’s a highly talented piano player,” said Dennis Broderick, also known as “Waju”, a local rapper who has worked with Charles on many occasions. “It definitely carries over into his producing. He’s able to create his own unique flavor and sound in the beats he composes.”

“Chris Charles is a great pro-

ducer,” said Alonzo Butler, another local rapper who has worked in Charles’ studio. “I’ve been working with him for a year and he has great work ethic. He’s a great pianist and has great work ethic.”

Charles credits his adoration of music to hip-hop icons Kanye West and the late James “J Dilla” Dewitt Yancey.

Although his family is 100 percent behind him, Charles acknowledges the fact that his friends have helped make him the person who he is today.

“My friends push me to try the hardest,” said Charles. “They know that I have the talent to do something great in the world of music, and they’re just pushing me to go above and beyond.”

“He’s a great person who I really hope goes far with his talents,” said Butler. “He definitely has the potential for it.”

His friend, Christian Sanchez has noticed the hard work and determination that Charles has put in his music.

“I’ve heard the music that he’s produced. It’s awesome,” Sanchez said of his friend. “His passion is music. He’s working hard and it’s definitely going to pay off.”

Charles hopes to transfer to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, where he will continue to pursue a career in the world of music.

His main goal is to have people appreciate his music and have a positive lasting impression on his listeners.

“In the end, I just want people to be affected by my music – for the better,” said Charles. “Knowing that people are out there enjoying your hard work is a good feeling. Music lies in the ears of the beholder.” preciate his music and have a positive lasting impression on his listeners. “In the end, I just want people to be affected by my music – for the better,” said Charles. “Knowing that people are out there enjoying your hard work is a good feeling. Music lies in the ears of the beholder.”

Student spends weekend at NASA Robert Lucero Troye Waldron

Clarion Staff Writers

Hard work and dedication truly paid off for a Citrus student when he received the opportunity to take his academic skills beyond the classroom.

Applying mathematics major, Craig Stremel 22 received an e-mail one day from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration that pushed him to apply for the National Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program.

Of the 275 community college student applicants to the NCAS program, 175 were chosen to compete.

They were given four bi-weekly assignments which were to make an abstract proposal of their robotics mission to mars, timeline/budget for their mission, create a formal proposal of the mission, and draw their rover.

Stremel worked hard on the bi-weekly assignments while also getting a letter of recommendation from mathematics professor, Rick Nguyenhuu and writing a personal statement.

“I’m not even really that smart,” Stremel said. “I’ve never done that good at school.”

In the end, only 89 out of the 175 applicants, including Stremel, were invited to attend the program at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama from Nov. 3-5.

The NASA website described the National Community College Aerospace Scholars as a three-day-pilot program for community college students from all over the country who are interested in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

During the three days, students participate in team projects directed by NASA engineers, attend engineer, scientist and astronaut briefings, and tour the facilities.

Phi Theta Kappa advisor Brian Waddington described Stremel’s achievement as a “clearly prestigious award.”

On the flight to Huntsville, Stremel felt

a bit intimidated sitting “next to smart girl,” who was one of the selected applicants for the same program. Stremel also felt nervous having to share a room with a complete stranger for the weekend.

For the program, Stremel along with the other selected students were divided into groups and their objective was to build a Mars Exploration Rover and present it as if they were trying to sell it to NASA. The rover would have to be able to pick up rocks and transfer them to different spots.

The rovers also had to go through two obstacle courses.

The highest score a group could achieve for their rover going through the obstacle course was 140 million. Stremel’s group obtained the highest number of points with a dominant 120 million.

Stremel was most proud of his group working together as a team and overcoming cultural boundaries.

With all of the students coming from multiple academic and cultural backgrounds, including about 40-50 students who were already in possession of their bachelor’s and or master’s degree, and he being only a pre-calculus student, Stremel didn’t expect his group to win.

Even with those odds against them, “in the end, we came out victorious, which was really cool,” the Stremel said. “We did pull off something pretty great.”

With this accomplishment, Stremel and his group became eligible for a lot more programs and gained authorization to do a lot more while at the Marshall Space Flight Center.

On the flight back home, Stremel said he was excited to tell everyone the good news.

Once they got off the plane and entered the airport, Stremel and the other students became aware of people taking notice of them by the t-shirts NASA gave them for completing the weekend.

Stremel compared the looks he received at the airport to same type of looks

Courtesy of Craig Stremel

Applying mathematics major, Craig Stremel takes a break during his weekend at the Marshall Space Flight Center for the National Community College Aerospace Scholars program in Huntsville, Ala.

one would give a soldier in uniform; what they were wearing brought attention to them because it made them look important.

“It really is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” the aerospace program alumnus said.

In an article published by public relations specialist for Citrus College, Stacy Armstrong, the superintendent and president of Citrus Dr. Geraldine M. Perri praised Stremel for working really hard and stepping up in his academics.

“Craig’s high standards and commitment to excellence are an indication of the success he will experience as he completes his education and establishes his career,” Perri said. “By qualifying for and completing this impressive program, he

has already demonstrated that he has acquired skills at Citrus College that will serve him well as he becomes a leader of tomorrow.”

With all of this behind him now, Stremel plans to graduate in the spring on June 11, and transfer to the University of California Berkeley.

From there, Stremel will be working on obtaining his master’s degree while working on a cooperation program with NASA. He also wants to recruit more students for the NCAS program and mentor them.

“I’m very proud of Craig,” said Lucia Riderer, his former calculus professor. “I hope to see him do more things with math.”

DECEMBER 8, 2010

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Psychology Club, back up and running Susana Guitron

Clarion Staff Writer

Although the Psychology Club is not a new campus organization, it has gone through inactive periods.

Now it is back in action for students; not only psychology majors, but anyone who is interested.

Gladys Morales, 23, student president of the Psychology Club, is a psychology major, but she encourages students of different majors to join.

Meetings are at 3 p.m. Tuesdays inside the executive board room in the Handy Student Center.

The Psychology Club has been working on getting involved with the local community, such as volunteering at Azusa Homework House, which is a program designed to help students K-5th grade who come from low income families.

Tutoring, playing outdoor sports and doing crafts with the children from the Azusa Homework House

are all ways members of the Psychology Club plans on giving back to the local community.

During meetings, when members are not planning community service events, they talk about featured presentations and controversial topics that arise within the world, and get to know each others thoughts and beliefs.

The club is currently working toward forming new ways to be able to give back to the community.

Members make friends with people who share the same interest.

Aside from focusing on psychology, the club is geared to help members transfer to a four-year university, helping build a strong resume, and obtain community service hours.

The main goal of the club is to direct its members towards success.

Dr. Rick Brown, adviser of the Psychology Club, has made a positive impact on club members.

“Dr. Brown is fun, cool and just such a good person,” Morales said.

Susana Guitron, Citrus College Clarion

Members of the Psychology Club discuss during a meeting new ways they can give back to the community.

“He’s always willing to listen to our needs and concerns and helps us out anyway he can.”

Members of the club are not the only ones who feel this way about Dr. Brown.

Christina Rubio, 19, a nursing major, has not joined the Psychology Club but plans to in the spring.

“I think it would be a great way for me to meet new friends. Dr. Brown is such a cool instructor that I know for sure the club is a reflection of his personality.” Rubio said.

Dr. Brown shares the same positive perception of his students, club and its members.

“I can’t say enough good things about Gladys Morales, our president, who literally took a dying club and infused it with so much energy that I want to tell all my students to join,” Brown said.

“We’ve made and continue to make an impact in our community, simultaneously providing awesome hands on learning opportunities for our students, our Psychology Club members are a great lively bunch and I’m very proud of them.”

Morales has already benefited from her seat as president. Although Morales intentions were not to be president, the opportunity presented

itself and she took it.

“Personally I really enjoy it. I am very afraid of public speaking, but thanks to Dr. Brown, he has always encouraged me to get past my fear.”

Morales said.

Meanwhile the area of interest of the club is psychology, students with different majors are encouraged to come to a meeting and see what the club is about.

Student interested can contact President Gladys Morales by email at moraleslady@hotmail.com or you can check out the clubs Facebook page under “Citrus Psyclub.”

Student faces the unseen Israel Mejia

Clarion Staff Writer

Citrus College student Javier Pena, 38, resident of Baldwin Park, has not always been blind.

When he was about 15 years old, Pena’s parents brought him, his five brothers and three sisters to the United States. They intended to work for a few years, then return to Michoacán, Mexico, but their plans changed over time.

When Pena started school his vision was blurry. He was given prescription glasses and didn’t think anything else about it.

When Pena left school, he decided to work very hard. He had three jobs: he worked at a hospital as a receptionist, as a supervisor at a local supermarket and started to work for the city of West Covina as an assistant and receptionist. Then, at age 33, he lost his vision.

Pena was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disease that attacks the photoreceptor cells of the retina and gradually leads to blindness.

His five brothers have it too.

They have stopped doing things like driving, but they can still see.

His sisters are not affected and Pena says it’s just bad luck, because his mother who is 86 years old has 20/20 vision and his father who passed away at the age of 70 had great vision as well.

At first, Pena didn’t know how to change his daily routine. He used to drive a lot, and he lost that privilege. He was a very independent person who never relied on anyone but himself.

“I had two choices, sit in the corner of my room, be the victim, wait for someone to help me or use the four senses that I have and progress,” said Pena.

Pena started calling community colleges that offered services for students with disabilities.

Eventually he determined that Citrus College was the right choice for him.

He chose to study psychology.

When he becomes a professional, he can help people who lose their vision or people whose lives change dramatically for other reasons.

“I may not see anymore, but I see life as everyone should,” Pena said. “People need to start seeing the necessity to progress.

People need to stop wasting time, stop misusing the opportunities that we have.”

During the three years here at Citrus he has concluded few students take school seriously, and many don’t fight to reach their full potential.

“I met Javier in the Fall of 2007 in my counseling class and I had to say he inspires and surprises me because even though he is blind he still helps his mother who is elderly and he is

always willing to help people around him when they ask,” said Citrus College student Kylie Sykes.

Pena has very good grades. To him a C is not good enough.

That attitude has helped especially when he could earn many scholarships.

“I was impressed by how he presented in my class. His subject was on his blindness and to me that showed that he is a very brave person,” said Citrus College professor Dr. Rick Brown.

“It isn’t an easy thing for anyone to talk about; he showed me the great strength he displays everyday.”

Pena insists that he is like every other sighted person, he could do many things like anybody else, slower perhaps but he gets them done. He says that he is no different; he washes dishes, cleans and takes care of himself.

Pena plans to graduate in two years, and transfer to Cal State Los Angeles. He wants to finish his bachelor’s, earn a master’s and possibly a doctorate in psychology.

Pena wants others to realize that the only obstacle that can stop us from achieving our goals is ourselves.

“Things get complicated,” Pena observed. “Your life will change in ways you could not imagine. We never know what will happen.”

DECEMBER 8, 2010

CAMPUS

9

Troye Waldron, Citrus College Clarion

Professor Henry A. Loya introduces himself to the students in Kulmbach, Germany at the first teleconference that took place in the fishbowl conference room in the library.

Students participate in transatlantic teleconference Richard Morales Clarion Staff Writer

A reading class of 15 students and a professor recently conducted a class-to-class teleconference call Nov. 29 from Citrus College to the Adalbert-Raps School in Kulmbach, Germany.

In what may well be a first for Citrus students, the international teleconference was accomplished by using Skype. The video call took place in the fishbowl conference room in the library and lasted two hours.

Professor Henry A. Loya, who teaches a Reading 099 class at Citrus, initiated the teleconference.

The teleconference was attended by his Reading 099 class. On the receiving end of the video was an economics class of 25 students taught by Professor Bertram Unger from Bavaria, Germany.

Unger and his students spoke English so the students at Citrus could easily communicate.

The students at Citrus presented on the subject of propaganda and how it’s used in our everyday life. The students of the Adalbert-Raps School presented lessons on Germany’s economy.

Several technical problems had to be overcome before the actual video feed had started. The library’s main Internet connection was not working first and took about 15 minutes to get back on track. The video quality for the first few minutes was poor but after the initial set up the teleconference went smoothly.

Loya met Unger’s predecessor, Claudia Renz-Kiefel, on a vacation in Maui in 2003.

“Claudia suggested it first in Maui, that was when we started doing these conferences,” said Loya. “Bertram emailed me about three months ago and asked if we could teleconference to Germany from Citrus. It turned out that it was fabulous!”

Loya was one of the first teachers to conduct a class-toclass teleconference from an American high school to a European high school.

He had previously executed the teleconference in 2006 with his economics class at Village Academy High Troye Waldron, Citrus College Clarion School in Pomona.

(Left to right) Tony Crespo, Stephanie Hall, and Brittany Pratt introduce themselves to an Economics class in Kulmbach, Germany.

Loya felt that This was the first teleconference that took place at Citrus College as the two classes discussed Economics and Propaganda. their first attempt went so well the first time that he has Tony Crespo, Stephanie Hall, This allowed the Citrus students to many as well.” been conducting teleconferences Jonathan Prado and Brittany see the slides as well as to still hear Students in the two classes also ever since.

Pratt. the audio of what the students in engaged in conversation, asking “Professor Unger e-mailed me “There are big differences in Germany were saying. questions about different lifestyles, and said the he wanted to set up culture. You always have to behave Tony Crespo, 20, an electrical sports, weather, leisure activities, [the teleconference] for a second in the right way if you don't want engineer major, was enthusiastic and even politics. time.” Loya said “I would like to to annoy a person belonging to about the shared learning experi“The robust exchange of ideas try to do one teleconference a seanother culture,” Unger said. ence. is one of the goals of education mester, if possible.”

“That's the reason why exchanges “Being able to talk to students everywhere. It made sense,” Loya Following the introductions, between students are very imporin Germany and able to undersaid. several students from each country tant. A teleconference is a simple stand the economic situation that “The students all learned a lot. presented a slideshow to effectively method.” they are going through made me But this overlooks a very basic fact: teach and demonstrate what The students from Germany realize how things are in different communication between young they’re currently learning. broadcasted their informative parts of the world,” said Crespo. people in distant countries carries The four students who preslideshow through a new feature “I now know how life is not only its own high interest level.” sented on behalf of Citrus were on Skype called “Screen Sharing.” in the United States but in Ger-

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CANDIDATES

SENATOR Thania Lucero Age: 20 Major: Political Science “I would like to further enhance my leadership skills to help my fellow classmates get involved and informed of what is going on at Citrus College.”

Patricia Gonzalez Age: 19 Major: Political Science/ Criminology “I want to become a commissoner at large to be part of committees. I want to involve students in campus programs and activites.”

Eric Freischlad Age: 19 Major: Commerical Music “I seek to assist in communication between clubs and the ASCC [board], and voice the opinions of the common student.”

Jessica Foyil Age: 19 Major: Psychology

DECEMBER 8, 2010

MEET THE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR SPRING POSITIONS ON THE ASSOCIATED STUDENTS OF CITRUS COLLEGE EXECUTIVE BOARD

VICE PRESIDENT Erick Sanzou Age: 19 Major: English & Pyschology “I am seeking office to continue my development as a leader and deal with issues concerning the students. I will add responsibility, preservance, experience, ideas and character to the ASCC Executive Board. I have served as ASCC senator for two semesters, formed part of two honor societies and have served as chair for the Campus Center Furnishing Committee.”

Complete this statement: “In my opinion, a leader is someone who can maintain a consistent work ethic. I think a leader must be prepared for obstacles and make important decisions without emotions.”

What are your career aspirations?

“I would like to receive a Ph.D. in psychology in order to become a child psychologist. If possible, I would like to become a sports journalist.”

Paul Arredondo Age: 19 Major: Business Administration “I am seeking a position as vice president because I feel I would enjoy being part of an organization that further enhances the experience that students receive from Citrus College. I believe having students engage in various educational and social activities can help them to create a positive image of the college experience that they are fortunate to be receiving; hence, helping them want to be in school and encouraging them to want to succeed.”

Complete this statement: “In my opinion, a leader is someone who takes the task assigned to him/her and executes it with minimal stress.”

What are your career aspirations?

“I aspire to become a police officer for the Los Angeles Police Department, and once my two years of probation are up, I want to apply for the SWAT team and move up rank.”

STUDENT TRUSTEE

“I seek to become more involved in school and I feel I can contribute my organizational skills.”

Andres Navarro Age: 22 Major: Political Science Steven Borgogna Age: 24 Major: Undecided “I am interested in improving my community in the political process.”

Omar Aabouelnasr Age: 23 Major: Undecided “I would like to give back to the school that I have been going to for the past year and a half. Also, I believe this would be a great opportunity for me to expand on my leadership skills.”

“I am seeking office because I would love to be part of the governing board of my college and represent my peers. I can bring a realistic and pragmatic perspective to the board while still lobbying for the average student. I was Editor-in-Chief of my high school yearbook for two years and a corporate representative in trade shows for my employer.”

Complete this statement: “In my opinion, a leader is someone who knows what his consitutents want and need and does everything in his power to fulfill them.”

What are your career aspirations?

“I am studying to eventually become a defense attorney and open a law firm with my brother.”

Nohemi Camacho Age: 18 Major: Theater “I am seeking office to represent Citrus College students and know their needs as students. Also, to gain positive life experiences. As student trustee elect, I can add input on decisions that are being made in our school and inform our ASCC executive board and also our students. I served as commissioner at large this semester which helped me gain further knowledge of what a leader is.”

Complete this statement: “In my opinion, a leader is someone who knows the needs and wants of consituents and strives to accomplish with integrity.”

What are your career aspirations?

“I want to major in theater and I don’t know exactly what I will do with that major but I know it will be something I enjoy.”

DECEMBER 8, 2010

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The Associated Students of Citrus College candidates come together for a photo after the election forum on Thursday, Dec. 2.

Robert Theys, Citrus College Clarion

Robert Theys, Citrus College Clarion

TOP: Julie Henderson, commissioner of public relations, and candidates Steven Borgogna and Jessica Foyil listen to fellow candidates talk at the election forum on Dec. 2.

LEFT: Paul Arredondo, Erick Sanzou, Eric Freischlad and Andres Navarro sit on the right side of the podium and listen as Freischlad prepares to answer a question at last week’s election forum.

Robert Theys, Citrus College Clarion

Check out our video interviews on our website with this QR code.

What has 2010 taught you?

What are your new year resolutions?

Kevin Figueroa Age: 22 Major: Theatre

“2010 has been a year of transition for me, a year of a lot of thought. It has taught me to keep my head up in certain situations no matter what is thrown at me because nothing is for granted.”

“[To me] it was about learning about relationships with my family and my friends and about the bigger picture.”

“[This year] has taught me that life is always going to be the same stuff, but it is about how you deal with it.”

o

Gloria Un Age: 23 Major: General Education

o

Matt Sanchez Age: 25 Major: Vocal Performance

THEHOOT

>>VIDEO: 2010

12

SPORTS

DECEMBER 8, 2010 Erica Irigoyen

Managing Editor - erica.irigoyen91@verizon.net

Volleyball celebrates season progress Kristin Lacuesta Jonathan Pettit Clarion Staff Writers

Since ending the fall 2010 season with a conference record of 66, the volleyball team has shown improvement and is confident about next year. Their overall record was 8-13.

Coach Shin Jung said that his team has improved and will continue to do so.

In 2008, the team finished 3-9 and in 2009, the season ended with a 4-8 record.

“We’ve progressively gotten better from the first year that I took over in 2007 and we have accomplished a lot more in a short period of time,” Jung said.

The team has certainly shown changes in their play and Jung believes this change could be due to “the understanding of the volleyball system itself, coming in with a new coach there are different systems.”

“Another good change could be

Courtesy of Andrew Wheeler, Sports Infomation Officer

The Citrus College volleyball team ended their conference season with a 6-6 record but remains confident for the next season.

due to having more intelligent volleyball players.”

During the season outside hitter, Lindsey Mitchell, suffered a minor concussion causing her to miss some crucial games.

Her absence caused some hardships for the team, forcing some

players to step up their competitiveness.

“Even though one of our players went down with a concussion this year, the players stayed resilient and played well,” Jung said.

Jung cited middle blocker and right side hitter Karina Jones as

promising.

“She has shown great improvement and has helped us a lot when Lindsey was out,” Jung said. “She was the key player that we hope we can build the team around next season.”

“I think the season went well,

setter Lauren Walsh said. “We had a lot of talent on the team and I believe we could have made it to the playoffs this season but we just came up short in games we had to win.”

With the graduation of Lindsey Mitchell, next season could be tough.

Mitchell led the team in the categories of attack, kill, serve, defense and recept.

Marsh was the most prolific in setting and Mirielle Juarez led in blocks.

“This season was super fun, and I’m sad this was my last year with Shin,” Mitchell said. “I love my team but I am also excited to transfer.”

The team now has to rally around each other, Jung said. “We have a lot of key returners such as Karina Jones and Isabel Pardo that we could build a team around.”

Football coach, players reflect on season Natalie Miranda Robert Theys Clarion Staff Writers

It was a disappointing 2010 football season with 22 players derailed by injuries and ineligibility.

With a final record of 2–8 in the Central West Conference, the only direction the Owls can go is up.

“It was a little more than disappointing,” said head coach Ron Ponciano. “We got caught in a perfect storm with injuries.”

Due to the number of students who were ineligible to play this season because of their academic performance, the Citrus College athletic department has a new policy in place to help students struggling with eligibility issues. If a player has a GPA under 2.5, he or she is required to participate in study hall.

The highlight of the season for the team was defeating Moorpark College 20-15 on Nov. 6. Moorpark was ranked ninth in Southern California when Citrus pulled off the big upset.

The win was a much needed morale boost for the team.

Citrus started off the season with a rousing victory over West Los Angeles College on Sept. 4 with a final score of 36-25, raising expectations of the season.

However, Citrus lost the next

seven games.

“As a team, our football IQ was low this season,” Ponciano explained. “You aren’t going to win games without good fundamentals. If you can’t tackle in space and can’t catch a football, you aren’t going to be a successful team.”

On the other hand, Ponciano said the 2010 team never gave up and never stopped fighting.

“Despite our losing season, our team learned to play for each other,” said defensive lineman Josyah Okeefe-Lopez, 22 a kinesiology major. “I felt that the team cared about the player next to them. We kind of put our record aside and still played the game to the last second.”

Defensive back Lawrence Finch agrees and said that working hard with new players and coming together as a team is what they did best.

“This has been a good season not as far as our record, but as far as building a better team,” Finch said.

Ponciano said that kicker Eric De Lira was the most improved player.

“We lost about three games last year because we couldn’t kick the ball through the uprights,” Ponciano said “Eric had the highest field goal percentage and was

IN OTHER

SPORTS...

See athletics website for the highs and lows of each team’s season...

Natalie Miranda, Citrus College Clarion

Although the football season ended in disappointment, coach Ron Ponciano is preparing for next season.

named Second Team All Conference. He’s an incredibly hard worker and did just a phenomenal job.”

De Lira’s field goal stats for the season were 8-11.

Ponciano expressed optimism about next year and said he is looking forward to the off-season.

“I’m most excited about just getting back to work. Most don’t know, but football is a year–round

sport. I just want to get started again, get back into shape, and improve from where we were last year.”

Ponciano says he plans to work the team on physical and mental toughness during the off –season.

“This sport will expose you,” Ponciano said. “If you aren’t tough enough, if you can’t take a hit or a make a hit, it isn’t for you.

You can’t give up just because you

feel the player lined up in front of you is better.”

Ponciano expects his team to bounce back and play up to the potential they flashed on several occasions this season.

“I’ve been coaching at a college level for 20 years,” Ponciano said.

“I don’t take losing very well. I’ve already put on 30 pounds from eating ‘comforting food.’”

Football Volleyball Women’s Water Polo Win-loss record: 2-8 Win-loss record: 8-13 Win-loss record: 15-13 Men’s Soccer Win-loss record: 0-18-2

Men’s Water Polo Win-loss record: 10-18

Women’s Soccer Win-loss record: 11-5-5

DECEMBER 8, 2010 COLUMN

PERSPECTIVES

Matt Deason Clarion Correspondent

After 10 life-changing weeks in London, I am happy to be back on American soil.

My semester abroad experience was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to go.

Throughout my stay in London I was able to experience different cultures, lifestyles, foods, beliefs, etc.

It has opened my eyes to new ways of living and a greater appreciation for the U.S. When I first got to London, needless to say I was blown away by all the architecture and history that existed around me in every direction.

I was excited to take the bus and the Tube throughout London and view famous parks, theaters and museums, eager to see everything.

In my adventures and tours with the school program, I was able to meet people, taste new foods and get comfortable with living in the fast pace city with people from all over the world.

My first month in London was like a dream, filled with adventure, curiosity and excitement, however, as I settled in I found myself missing things that we have in the states.

I knew once I got to London I

Jennifer Young

would grow as a person and increase my knowledge of how other cultures live, but I didn’t know a large part of my growth would be in recognizing the things that I take for granted everyday living in the states.

One of the things I took for granted is simply space.

In London it is so busy that it is hard to get anywhere without being bumped, or smashed up against someone on an elevator, Tube, bus, etc.

When I got back home it felt like I had more space then I knew what to do with, and I can honestly say I appreciate California, now more than ever.

Another luxury I missed while in London was transportation. Despite the fact that the public transportation in London is awesome, it is often crowded and it takes a fair amount of time to get around.

During my stay in London, I found myself missing being able to drive and get where I needed to go within minutes.

In fact, after arriving at LAX, on my way home I was in traffic; for the first time with a smile. Drivng, I realize now, is a privilege and I appreciate being able to drive down the street now more than ever.

Hands down I realize now that we in America have the benefit of

Opinions & Editorials - jennayou22@gmail.com

CHEERS!

FROM LONDON

McClatchy-Tribune Services

large food selections and portions.

As far as stores go, we in the states have supermarkets, while in London they just have markets.

The stores are about a third to half the size of ours and have far fewer options for food.

Finally, I wanted to say I am thankful for the warmer and more animated personality of people in the states, verses those in London and the value of the dollar.

We in the states are much more social with one another and polite and we take it for granted everyday.

We also take for granted the cost of living in the U.S. Our prices for food, rent, etc. are far cheaper than the extremely expensive city of London and I now realize how fortunate I am to live in a place where I can actually afford to survive.

Without a doubt my study abroad experience in London gave me a greater understanding of cultures, beliefs and myself. I am truly grateful to be an American, where I feel we have a little of everything and the best of everything.

Stop bullying before it starts It is time to present a new by his classmates. He was a strong mindset, be respectful and mind person, he defended himself but your own business. he reached a point where he Over the years, we have heard could defend no more. On the about the causes and possible soday he committed suicide he was lutions for bullying, but instead we humiliated during lunch as some should have a solution for a new students pulled his pants down generation where bullying could and poured chili all over him. cease to exist.

Students said that they saw the Bullying happens because a bullying and did nothing. School person has a problem, that probofficials say they didn’t see the lem could be against themselves bullying happening and some or whatever is around them, we people just simply don’t know have let those problems escalate to how to deal with these types of the point that it becomes someone situations. else’s problem.

Schools all over this country To many, this would seem abadvocate for respect and tolerance surd because there’s the belief very early on but some parents that bullying will always exist, but don’t advocate anything or the why do people wrong things and think that way? we get students THE ISSUE Maybe beand people who Bullying is a continuing cause society has have to pick on problem not only on seen this for as others because of the playgrounds but long as they their beliefs, their also in the classrooms. could remember, likes or dislikes. but the real belief We need to OUR POSITION that should be put a stop to this Citrus College has a spread is that if by setting into zero tolerance policy and we believe all you have a probthe minds of schools should follow lem with somepeople that we this model. thing or someone don’t care about you need to eiwhat you hate, ther talk to somewe don’t care one about it, learn to be tolerant about what you like and we ceror go somewhere that fits what tainly don’t care if you just care you want. about yourself, because you’re not This issue is being re-evaluated the only one in the world. because of Project 51; an organiWe all have an inner bully, we zation founded by Jeff Lasater make little comments and we after his son shot himself in his don’t realize that they get bigger school bathroom for being bullied. every day. For example, we can all Jeremiah Lasater was 14 years say we have heard people say, old, he stood at 6’6” and weighed “that’s gay,” “Ew, what is she 275 pounds, he played on his high wearing,” “That is so wrong.” school’s JV football team and Believe it or not those little every day he faced being bullied comments are disgusting. How

13

could anyone make comments like that and not think about how they are affecting society? It makes people look ignorant, intolerant and poisonous to this society.

Children aren’t the only ones who do this. Adults do many things too, we all gossip. That gossip leads to closeted bullying, the bad thing is that nothing could be hidden in this world. We have to learn to be honest and face the consequences of what we believe.

Guess what?

Our beliefs are not almighty, they are what we believe not what everybody else does.

We need to start being brave.

When was the last time anyone told someone that what he or she is doing is wrong?

We are talking about laying the truth on the table, our inner and outer bullies need to realize that our intolerance will no longer be accepted, we have entered a new era where children are being more self destructive, people are no longer united, and we no longer trust in ourselves.

A survivor of bullying would want people to know that they need to be strong and that one day things will get better but it’s very hard when all you can do is

Thanks to everyone who made this trip possible: Lynn Jamison, Mike Hurtado, the Financial Aid department, Gilman Scholarship Donors, and AIFS. Thank you to the Clarion as well for allowing me to share my experience with everyone at Citrus.

If anyone has any questions about how the study abroad program works please feel free to contact me.

Until, next time, we should all be grateful; because we Americans are truly blessed.

LETTER TO THE

EDITOR

Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion

fear when your feelings will be struck again.

Every child, every adult, every person is different. People get bullied for the dumbest reasons and we need to teach people to be tolerant. If not they could leave because no one has to change for their intolerance.

Citrus has a zero tolerance policy but we need to spread it everywhere, we need to communicate and have everyone be heard.

Let’s remember the past when we witnessed bullying, were bullied or were a bully ourselves and stop it now.

Go out there, say what is bothering you, get help, get educated, become a leader and together we can end the social injustice that people face everyday.

Being a WWII B29 Celestial Navigator, I was looking through some community college newspapers with a ho-hum attitude looking for some Veteran’s Day news – but I was ever so surprised.

Your paper was filled not only with pertinent articles but also with subject matters. Your vet coverage was great, but I was especially touched by your article on bullying.

As bad as school bullying is, it points out sibling bullying is much worse – the victim is forced to go home with the bully. No escape there.

No parent acknowledges the bullying: peace at any price, even though it may be a broken back or a twisted mind.

The experts do not have an answer to sibling abuse. Keep up your good work in this area.

Sincerely, Dr. Edward Ortell I Astronomy Professor Emeritus El Camino College

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PERSPECTIVES

DECEMBER 8, 2010

EDITOR’S EDITORIAL

In the event of an emergency 18 bucks for what?

The health emergency response protocol at Citrus needs to be revisited, reconsidered and revised in order to better suit students’ needs.

On Nov. 29, a student in a psychology 101 class fainted outside the Hayden Hall classroom steps.

After nurses refused to assist the student in need 20 feet from the health office, it is clear that whether the campus nurse cares or not, she will not risk the possible liability that comes along with helping students who are not physically present in the health center.

The health emergency protocol, according to Martha McDonald, dean of students, is as follows: campus safety personnel are identified as first responders. Campus Safety initiates contact with the fire department and paramedics. They are trained in first aid.

Nowhere in this protocol is the health center mentioned.

Generally, a nurse’s job is to assess initial medical needs of patients and determine treatments. As the head nurse on campus, Shauna Bigby possesses these skills. And the same goes for the rest of the nurses on campus.

Seeing as these nurses have the skill set to assess health situations, it would also seem they have the skills to walk outside their office to give a quick assessment of a student’s situation and determine if emergency assistance is truly needed.

Being aware the campus nurses will not risk a possible liability, a few questions have surfaced. These questions include: What is the point of the health center? Where is our $18 health fee that student pay every semester?

Our $18 is being wasted.

Other than condoms, cramp tabs, Pamprin and Tylenol, along with other various medicines, the only thing our nurses can do for us are give flu shots, Band-Aids and free HIV testing—that’s what our health fee pays for.

If you are in need of urgent medical attention and need more assistance than campus security can provide while waiting for paramedics, you are out of luck. Needless to say, the nurses will not step out of their office to help out while you are waiting.

So here is what needs to be done: Our nurses need to determine when risking that liability may in fact be worth it. They need to assess each situation on a case-by-case basis.

The nurses would still be helping students on school grounds so why is it a liability? They are school nurses and the only few people on campus who have the knowledge and are being paid our tax dollars to help in a serious situation.

Heaven forbid something more serious had happened to that student who was only 20 feet away from the nurses’ office. It would seem that the nurses would have then been liable for not using their skills to assist the student to the best of their ability.

Although this protocol may sound good on paper, it isn’t realistic.

So, please Citrus College, revise the emergency protocol because the current one isn’t working for us.

Editor’s Note: This editorial was written by the editors. It is not a reflection of the entire staff.

Citrus College should switch cult for students to check their to a more effective way of alertphones during class. ing students and faculty in the The most likely emergency sitevent of an emergency by inuations are earthquakes, fires, stalling digital emergency alert storms, shootings and bomb clocks. These clocks allow stuthreats. dents to see an alert when a poLast month there was a bomb tential threat or disaster occurs. threat called in to Citrus College, Currently, Citrus’ plan is to aimed at the Cosmetology Buildnotify students who have signed ing. It was dealt with successfully up to receive alerts of a situation by the security department and via text, phone call and e-mail. local police authorities, but it But some students fear that serves as a reminder of what is this is not enough in situations possible on the campus. where students need to be notiIf there actually was a bomb fied en masse, and immediately. on campus, casualties could be Phone calls and e-mails may not lessened or eliminated by immebe effective in these instances. diately notifying everyone with an An emergency clock is the emergency clock. The digital safest and clock gives presmartest way cise information to alert every about where the THE ISSUE building of a threat is and Citrus College has done a good job of alerting dangerous sitwhat students students about emergenuation. need to do to stay cies on campus. HowThey are safe. ever, it isn’t enough similar to the For example, when disaster strikes. digital clocks in the event of a currently on shooting, the OUR POSITION the walls of emergency clocks We should invest in the library. would advise that emergency clocks for the They normally doors stay locked classrooms to alert us quickly and effectively. display the and students stay time, but in close to the the event of an ground. In the emergency they will display a text event of a fire, it would inform alert. students of where to go and what Unlike phone calls, texts and to do. e-mails, these alerts will reach alVirginia Tech, in the wake of most everyone on campus imme- the 2007 shooting that left 33 diately. There is no concern that people dead and 25 wounded, someone will not answer their has installed digital notification phone. Not to mention it is diffiboards throughout the campus.

Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion

The use of digital emergency alert clocks isn’t the only way to notify students of potential dangers though.

Our neighboring college, Azusa Pacific University uses an intercom system on both of their campuses in selective positions around the school to effectively alert students of threats and disasters.

Social networking also plays a large role in notifying students in a timely matter. The websites Twitter and Facebook are not as ideal a notification system as intercoms or digital emergency clocks, but students do tend to be on these sites frequently.

Adding the college you attend to your friends or followers may be a life saver as colleges frequently post important messages to their walls and blogs.

These alerts can be seen not

only on campus, but in the community as well and can be spread to local police and safety enforcers.

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh has already installed digital emergency alert clocks in every building on their campus and don’t foresee any major problem with their new alarm system. Although they estimate the cost between $300,000 and $375,000, they have set a precedent for other colleges to take these precautions in keeping the community safe.

Citrus should follow the model that the University of Oshkosh Wisconsin and Virginia Tech by taking initiative and investing in these clocks.

This would be a good thing that ASCC can invest in for the future because the cost of safety is priceless.

Passing the torch, the desk, the ship Courtney Mitchell Clarion Editor in Chief

I usually do not like too many holiday songs, but lately, I have been obsessed with “Glee: The Music – The Christmas Album.”

Lea Michele, Chris Colfer and Matthew Morrison, among others, know how to make my little heart sing with their vocal gifts.

Every time we hear a new “Glee” song, we have this saying in my house and we say, “Glee always does it better!”

The way they compose and sing the songs really help me bring my soul back to the holiday spirit and what it is all about.

I had a minor stress attack thinking about what I was going to get everyone for Christmas, let alone when I was going to find time to shop.

I usually drive a suburban but I somehow, in a string of bad luck, managed to drive over a nail and blow my tire. While my dad was driving on the spare and getting me a new tire, he let me borrow his car, which ultimately led to my revelation.

So on my way to Target in my dad’s new Chevrolet HHR, I

started to jam out to my “Glee” holiday tunes on my iPod. Anyway, I started thinking about the songs and the lyrics and each one brought back to memories of my childhood, my friends, my family and all the blessings in my life, especially this year.

As this chapter of my life comes to an end, I reflected some McClatchy-Tribune Services on all the events that happened in 2010. that's another story.

As I share with you, reflect on Favorite memory with my some of your highlights of 2010. boyfriend: We always get the Favorite memory with my question, “Where did you two family: Going to Disneyworld meet?” And every time, it's a difthis summer. We spent seven ferent answer. We can never dedays in Florida — two traveling cide whether to say “through and five cruising the parks. Each mutual friends” or “at a baseball day, we packed our lunch, water game” or “at BJ’s and he doesn't and ponchos, shoveled in breakremember” or any other form of fast that dad made for us every ridiculousness. But each time the morning, piled in the rental car question is asked, we simply and made it to every park to smile and look at each other and watch the opening ceremonies. try to awkwardly figure out My mom bought a book at where to start.

Barnes & Noble, which had Favorite memory with my felexact plans of where to go and low framers: I was so unsure what to do each day, down to the how the semester was going to minute. We followed it, almost turn out with my best friends as perfectly, and ended up doing al- my associate editors at the Clarmost everything we wanted. I’m ion. It ended up being better still bitter I couldn't watch the than expected and we walked Block Party Bash parade but away from the experience with

from the editor several inside jokes. Most of them have been written down, so we don't forget, and they are all hanging above my desk. My absolutely favorite, however, was when our lab supervisor, Stacy Long, jokingly said she is hoping to marry rich. Erica Irigoyen, our managing editor, looked up at her and asked, “Who’s Rich?”

I will forever have my photos and memories to remind me of all the good times I have had this year.

As I am beginning to close my Citrus chapter with a little bit of sadness, I open my next one with a bit of hope and eagerness.

Thank you “Glee,” once again, for shedding an ever so hopeful light on my transition.

DECEMBER 8, 2010

PERSPECTIVES

2010: a year in review As college students, 2010 may seem like the seven year war has finally come to a just any other year. close.

We may be far too busy in the “rat We came face-to-face with the reality of race” that is community college to really the effect our oil consumption has on the stop and notice what is going on outside of environment, with the 86 day BP oil spill, Barranca and Foothill Blvd. as we watched as the seemingly-hopeless Another year at war, another year of situation spread to areas of the Gulf of people swearing “The Big One” will hit Mexico. us, and another year of watching Lindsay Arizona signed one of the strictest antiLohan deal with her immigration laws, spurring legal troubles. political interest and stirTHE ISSUE This all seems like old ring up controversy across This year has been full news. the U.S. of intense high’s and However, 2010 did deIn the same spirit, we emotional lows. liver some learning opsaw Americans come toportunities. gether for the ongoing OUR POSITION We believe that we fight to repeal the “Don’t Be more proactive next can learn a lot from Ask, Don’t Tell” military year. Make a resolution some of the unfortunate policy. to come together as a occurrences of this year Regardless of whether community and make 2011 a better, more and instead turn them or not you personally eventful year. into beneficial examples. agree with these political We saw a true examacts, it is comforting to ple of teamwork in the know our fellow Ameriefforts to save the 38 Chilean miners that cans do take an interest in taking action were trapped for 69 days, an event wittowards what they think is right. nessed worldwide.

The same unity was seen when bullying Only to then see one of the rescued was brought to our attention with the sudminers, Edison Pena, finish the New York den outbreak of suicides by homosexual City marathon just weeks after being resteens. cued, in an inspirational feat.

For example, the It Gets Better Project, The last American combat troops were had a wide variety of people ranging from removed from Iraq, giving us hope that public figures and everyday people, send

out encouraging messages to people who have been victims of bullying.

This is what we hope to see in 2011.

We should take away the lessons to be learned by the events of 2010, and apply them in the upcoming year.

Let us see more people working together to help one another, whether it be against hate or in support of any cause that is beneficial to society.

Everyone needs to take action in their community instead of just going for what is considered “safe” or being stuck in a rut.

It should not take a disaster or unfortunate event to push us to do something. We should be proactive.

We wish we could not be so focused on celebrity antics and instead focus on the long-lasting issues.

Let us not forget to put those Blackberries away and be in the moment.

As students, we wish for us to take our studies seriously because as we are continuously seeing, education is becoming more and more difficult to acquire.

Every year is a fresh start and a new opportunity for change.

This year make a goal not to abandon your goals by Jan. 2.

Thank you 2010, it has been great knowing you.

2011, please, do not let us down.

Dating in the age of Facebook Jennifer Young Clarion Perspectives Editor

In today’s dating world, guy meets girl, they scope out each other’s Facebook page, converse via text, and then, if all goes well they go out on a first date.

Back in the day, the whole point of a first date was to get to know someone, but thanks to social networking, there isn’t much that we don’t already know about each other when we go out for the first time.

It is like a virtual speed date.

It has become standard practice to check out your love interest’s Facebook profile or Googling his or her name to see if you have anything, or anybody, in common.

And if your online profile is subpar you could potentially be cut out of their dating pool even before spending actual physical time together.

Our social network profiles and persona have so much power over our social lives.

They are the predetermining factors through we connect or not.

Our social networking pages are our resumes for anyone who might want to date us.

So if your profile picture up from last summer’s Vegas adventure that could have been considered the sequel to “The Hangover” is still posted on your site, you probably won’t be getting a call from Mr. Church Volunteer whom you met at Sunday service.

We students are now learning how to brand ourselves to prepare for entry into the corporate world.

This image building process also applies to our social lives.

Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion

There was a time, not too long ago, when all you had to do to set up a date was exchange telephone numbers.

The fun of getting to know each other began through actual face-to-face social interaction.

Now we scroll through the photos and status updates of that cute guy/girl in English 101 to decide if we even want to say “hi.” That prescreening process takes all the fun out of everything.

So exactly what we are all looking for? It is difficult to get a real take on who someone is by looking at things they chose so carefully to post for the world to see.

Maybe it is the voyeur in all of us, but we like being able to find out as much as we can without having to even ask.

And then there is the issue of poking.

Most people are uncertain about the exact meaning of this term. A virtual poke could mean a flirty gesture is being ex-

pressed; it could be a simple hello or can even be perceived as something negative.

But how are we supposed to respond to a stranger who is virtually poking us? A virtual poke is too awkward for my taste; I’ll leave the pokes to the Pillsbury doughboy.

So now you’ve taken down all those unflattering pictures and the “I’m sooo drunk” status updates.

Now it is time to stop reading between the lines and giveup the cyber-stalking.

It is time to be you.

Step out from behind the shield of the computer screen and share who you really are, with a real person.

In the grand scheme of things, all that is going to matter is the real person that you are. It is the face-to-face interaction That is what is going to motivate that special someone go from “single” to “in a relationship.”

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Year with no regrets Erica Irigoyen Clarion Managing Editor

The holiday season is here at last and it is during this time that we all begin to reflect on our year, think about every moment that we are thankful for, and determine what we can do or improve on in the coming new year.

So here are my reflections.

During 2010, I have done a lot. I have felt both achievement, and failure at one time or another. I have learned valuable lessons and given help to friends in need.

And with everything that I have done, learned and lost in 2010, I regret nothing.

I started out 2010 in a relationship that was definitely stable but not for me. I really cared about this person but couldn’t seem to find anything in common with him.

When I started my summer internship at Southern California Edison, I decided that maybe a relationship would be too much to handle with my newfound ridiculously busy schedule that I now acquired.

So I decided to end the relationship—and I never looked back.

Throughout the rest of my summer at Edison, I told myself, “no boyfriends! I have way too much to do to be bothered with a relationship.”

But that didn’t last very long. It was the end of July when I met Brian—who would soon become my boyfriend. He was great.

He had a great personality, he was cute, and we were alike in so many ways.

It was finally after hanging out with him for a month, that a fellow intern told me to stop making the excuse of being too busy and to just go out with him if I really wanted to that I decided to turn my hanging out with Brian into a relationship.

Since that time, our relationship has been through a lot in a short amount of time. In the four months that we have been together, Brian has temporarily moved to New Mexico for work—I am now in a long-distance relationship.

In all my life, I never thought I would be in a long-distance relationship. They are hard and they definitely take more work than a regular relationship. But I am, and even though it seems so difficult at times, I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Although I would much rather have him here with me, I always look forward to every text I receive and every phone call and Skype call I get to make at night—and what I am looking forward to the most is Christmas Eve when Brian comes home for five days.

So here is what I am thankful for in 2010. I am thankful for the relationships I have lost and I have gained. I am thankful for the lessons I have learned. I wouldn’t change anything in 2010 because every bump in the road and every small failure I have faced have helped me to become a better student, daughter, girlfriend and person.

Bring on the new year and the new challenges that I will have to overcome. Let the lessons be learned and let my relationships grow stronger.

PERSPECTIVES Sorry cow, but you’re delicious

DECEMBER 8, 2010

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Israel Mejia Clarion Staff Writer

Being an animal activist and for animal’s rights doesn’t mean we have to give up meat.

This statement would be strongly rejected by animal activists who are vegan or vegetarian, but I am sorry to say some of us just will not give up meat especially when our culture will not let us.

Many people would give the excuse that they won’t go meatless because they need their protein; there’s many ways to get protein besides meat. They include foods like spinach, mushrooms, sprouts, soybeans, oatmeal, tofu, and brown rice.

The problem is that these foods don’t sound appetizing to many people, especially me. I want some tacos full of carne asada and awesome hot sauce with a side of rice and beans.

I have tried going vegetarian and for a week even vegan.

Sorry animal lovers but I love meat. I am from a Mexican and Salvadoran family and we eat a lot of different types of dishes that include meat. I will not give up the delicacies of my culture, which would include “pupusas” and “menudo.” I feel bad but, my stomach doesn’t.

I consider myself an animal activist because I do not like the

way animals are treated. Be it for experiments or how they die to be our meal.

All I can do is avoid places that are said to be cruel to animals. Undercover investigators went to Kentucky Fried Chicken facilities and found that they are very cruel. Their chickens do not live long or well. The chicken cages they are housed in are meant for five chickens but instead there are twelve living in them. Some of those chickens may die in the cage but remain there for days until the others are picked up to be slaughtered.

If we knew the way different types of food were made, we wouldn’t want to pick them up again, but my mother would tell me to stop worrying because animals are born to die for our meal.

Nonetheless, this cruelty doesn’t mean that we need to stop eating meat.

It is very scary writing this because I would have everyone that is against it planning to have me skinned or would want me to feel the pain animals do when they get slaughtered but its not my fault.

I am not the type of person that will stop eating meat and just sit at the table while everyone enjoying it.

People need to face the fact

that there will always be meat eaters. Animals will be killed for food but that doesn’t mean we can’t reach a compromise.

My family’s compromise would only be to not eat meat on Friday’s during Lent.

I don’t believe in there is a way to define the ethical treatment of animals, because what is ethical?

Killing isn’t ethical and we can’t say that we will kill an animal with respect or honor, it just doesn’t sound right.

What could we really do?

The whole world isn’t going to be vegan or vegetarian. Especially when vegan and vegetarian food is expensive. Why would anyone want to pay six dollars for fake meat when we could get a pound of steak for four dollars?

So, putting ethicality and

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morality aside, I think that the only thing we can do as meat eaters is demand that animals not be tortured, drugged, or abused before they become our food.

I’m sorry my veggie friends but we must face the fact that people love meat, animals will have to die for our meals everyday, but we’re not bad, we just have to eat.

Choosing a compassionate lifestyle Daniel Hernandez Clarion Staff Writer

I am an animal rights activist and a vegetarian/vegan.

There are many misconceptions as to why people like me choose this lifestyle, which is not only about not eating meat, but also about commitment.

People choose to become vegetarian for many reasons that include ethical, religious, health and some just because it’s trendy.

In the end what these people have in common is they find themselves learning about the cause and become more passionate and committed in the process.

Regardless of what the reason may be, in the end it benefits the animals.

You may ask, what about the animals?

The abuse that animals suffer at human hands is heartbreaking, sickening, and infuriating. Around the world animals are fighting for their very lives.

Cows and pigs are mutilated and confined to tiny cages so that people can kill and eat them.

Elephants are beaten, enslaved, tortured and kept in chains to make them perform for human entertainment.

Cats, dogs and monkeys are burned, blinded, poisoned, and cut up alive all in the name of science and experimentation.

Rachel Fuller, Citrus College Clarion

Animals that can provide leather, wool or fur are electrocuted, strangled and skinned alive so that people can parade around in their coats.

Five years ago I finally realized that the everyday choices I make, such as what I eat for lunch and the kind of cosmetics I buy may directly support this abuse, I knew I had to say “no more.”

Animals are counting on compassionate people like me to give them a voice and be their heroes by learning about the issues they face and by taking action.

Everyone has a cause they become passionate about, whether it

is fighting for AIDS, cancer or civil rights.

This is the cause I chose to support, and I want people to understand the seriousness of it.

We all grew up eating meat, wearing leather and going to circuses.

I never considered the impact of these actions on animals until I gave myself the time to consider the vegetarian/vegan lifestyle.

Today I am a participant in challenging the traditional view that all animals exist solely for human use.

Author Peter Singer states that the basic principle of equality does

not require equal or identical treatment; it requires equal consideration.

I took the time to learn about animal rights, and that is what I’m asking others to do also.

Prejudice allows us to deny other living beings the rights that we expect for ourselves.

Whether that prejudice may be based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or species.

Regardless, our human history has taught us that prejudice is morally unacceptable.

So consider this question: “If you wouldn’t eat a dog, why eat a pig?”

Dogs and pigs have the same capacity to feel pain, but it is human prejudice based on species that prompt us to think of one animal as a companion and the other as dinner.

To attack this issue and to call me crazy won’t have much effect on me just as it won’t have much effect for me to attack you for eating meat.

Instead of labeling me as a fanatic, take a step back and reflect.

Perhaps you may find yourself understanding things you didn’t want to understand just because you never gave yourself the time to truly try.

If you already have taken the time to study vegetarianism and have decided this lifestyle is not for you, then I respect you for it.

All I ask is for the same respect from you.

My dream is to have everyone give up meat.

If that goal is too idealistic, why not reduce consumption instead?

Eating fruits and vegetables is beneficial for your health.

It is a myth that if you stop consuming meat, your body won’t be able to get enough protein from other foods.

Don’t let anything or anyone discourage you from understanding a lifestyle choice you are not accustomed to.

Get out of your comfort zone.

Maybe it’s time to try a new way of living.

DECEMBER 8, 2010

ENTERTAINMENT Natalie Miranda

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Arts & Entertainment Editor - mirandanatalie@ymail.com

Winter movie sneak peek Kristin Lacuesta Brandon Lozano Clarion Staff Writers

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Clarion holiday playlist

>>CODE: PLAYLIST Check out our holiday playlist featuring some of our favorite holiday songs.

“Frosty the Snowman” – Lester and The Gang “Let it Snow” – Frank Sinatra “Why Couldn’t It Be Christmas Every Day” – Bianca Ryan “Everything Is Going To Be Cool This Christmas” – The Eels “That Was the Worst Christmas Ever!” – Sufjan Stephens “Christmas Tree” – Lady Gaga “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey “Jingle Bell Rock” – Bobby Helms “Santa Baby” – Madonna “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” – John Lennon “Last Christmas” – Glee Cast

Holiday must-reads Jennifer Young Joseph Thorne

Clarion Staff Writers

Winter is the ideal time to read a good book in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa. Here are some reading choces from 2010 that the Clarion staff and literary critics recommend. We have included both fiction and nonfiction selctions, with some to be published later in December that promise to be exciting.

“Full Dark, No Stars”

by Stephen King Published Nov. 9, Scribner 368 pages What is it? This is the master of horror’s third collection of four novellas that British writer Neil Gaiman calls “powerful” and “profoundly nasty.”

Why you should read it: King’s novellas are always brisk and exhilarating reads. Five of his eight previously released novellas have been made into feature or TV films, including “The Shawshank Redemption” and “The Body,” which was adapted into the film “Stand by Me.” “Full Dark” promises to be just as exciting a collection.

“Freedom”

by Jonathan Franzen Published Aug. 31, Farrar, Strauss and Giroux 576 pages What is it? In the works since 2001, this is Franzen’s fourth full-length novel. It follows his acclaimed “The Corrections,” a selection from Oprah’s Book Club. “Freedom” follows the struggles of a typical middle-class American family in modern times.

Why you should read it: Oprah says it is the best novel she has ever read, and President Obama, who read it over the summer, calls it “terrific.”

Literary critics give it almost universal acclaim, and it is popping up on “Best of 2010” lists everywhere.

“Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang”

by Chelsea Handler Published Mar. 9, Grand Central Publishing 256 pages What is it? A collection of humorous essays by

Christmas is near and the holiday movie season is upon us. This winter Reese Witherspoon gets caught in a love triangle, Disney gives Tron a major upgrade in the anticipated sequel and picnic basket-stealing bears are on the loose.

Here are 10 selections for Citrus College to enjoy during the next few weeks.

“THE KING’S SPEECH” DEC. 10 Oscar watchers: are you ready? Early reviews for Tom Hooper’s “The King’s Speech” scream Best Picture.

A favorite and winner at the 2010 Toronto International Film Festival, the film explores the historical true story of King George VI (Colin Firth), who tries to overcome a speech impediment with the help of Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush).

Rated R for some language.

comedian and late night host Chelsea Handler.

Why you should read it: Because it’s funny. If you are a Handler fan or just love to laugh, this book is for you. Its outright vulgarity has caused some controversy, but fans say that it is her straightforwardness that makes it such a good read.

“The Autobiography of Mark Twain”

by Mark Twain Published Nov. 15, What is it? It’s the first volume of a three-installment autobiography of the famous author who died 100 years ago. What makes it new and fresh is that it was just now released; Twain made it clear that his memoirs were not to be released until 2010.

Why you should read it: Twain decided to delay the release of his work by a century because of some controversial content in the book. The fact that Twain is still a beloved American literary figure after all these years, combined with the controversy, should make this a fascinating read. Plus, Twain was noted for his humor, so it should be a very entertaining read as well.

“Room”

by Emma Donoghue Published Sept. 13 What is it? A novel told from the perspective of a five-year-old by who is being held captive in a room with his mother.

Why you should read it: It’s a fairly simple concept, but it is executed very well. You are given a limited perspective and limited information, and it really keeps you guessing. It’s the perfect thriller, and you won’t put it down until you’re finished.

Coming Soon “The Gift” (Book 2 of Witch and Wizard Series)

by James Patterson and Ned Rust Publication date: Dec. 13 “What the Dog Saw: And Other Adventures”

by Malcolm Gladwell Publication Date: Dec. 13 “What the Night Knows”

by Dean Koontz Publication date: Dec. 27

“YOGI BEAR” DEC. 17 Yogi (voiced by Dan Aykroyd) and Boo-Boo (voiced by Justin Timberlake) get a CGI upgrade in this family adventure directed by Eric Brevig.

One can only picture what everybody’s favorite bear has in store for Jellystone Park and Ranger Smith (Tom Cavanagh). This should be a fun winter picnic trip to theaters, especially for children.

Rated PG for some mild rude humor.

“THE FIGHTER” DEC. 17 This is a boxing film based on the true story of Boston native and welterweight boxer “Irish” Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg) whose relationship with his family stands in his way of becoming a champion. That includes his troubled half-brother Dickie Ecklund (Christian Bale), who once went the distance against boxer Sugar Ray Leonard. Ecklund serves as his brother’s trainer and is a drug user in this boxing drama directed by David O. Russell (“Three Kings”).

Rated R for language throughout, drug content, some violence and sexuality.

“HOW DO YOU KNOW” DEC. 17 A young woman (Reese Witherspoon) is pulled into a love triangle in this romantic comedy from James L. Brooks (“As Good As It Gets.”) Paul Rudd and Owen Wilson star as a corporate executive and Major League pitcher who compete for Witherspoon in what looks to be a hot winter film.

Rated PG-13 for sexual content and some strong language.

“GULLIVER’S TRAVELS” DEC. 22 Jack Black and director Rob Letterman (“Shark Tale”) bring Jonathan Swift’s 18th century novel to the modern age in this family adventure. The trailer suggests laughs and presents tiny people on the island of Lilliput where writer Lemuel Gulliver (Black) ends up. Jason Segal (“How I Met Your Mother”) and Emily Blunt (“Sunshine Cleaning”) are two of the big name actors cast as the tiny civilians of Lilliputin what looks to be a sure delight.

Rated PG for brief rude humor, mild language and action.

“THE TOURIST” DEC. 10 A-list celebrities Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie star in their first collaborative film in this thriller from director Florian Henckel von Donnersmark. Set in Italy, Frank (Depp) is an American tourist visiting the country in the hopes of getting over his recent heartbreak. Meanwhile, Elsie (Jolie) is in the country attempting to escape from those who are after her ex-boyfriend, who is a criminal, and deliberately involves Frank to mislead her followers. This film looks to be a contender in the Oscar race.

Rated PG-13 for violence and brief strong language.

“LITTLE FOCKERS DEC. 22 This holiday season get ready for the third installment of the “Meet the Parents” series with “Little Fockers.”

The Byrnes and Focker families are back on the big screen, this time with double the hilarious antics and funny misunderstandings with the addition of Greg (Ben Stiller) and Pam’s (Terri Polo) new twins. This comedy is sure to be a family favorite.

Rated PG-13 for mature sexual humor throughout, language and some drug content.

“TRON: LEGACY” DEC. 17 Walt Disney Pictures finally presents the sequel to the 1982 film “Tron.”

Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund) investigates the disappearance of his father, Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) and finds himself in the intense and fierce cyber universe his father has been living in for 20 years. This sci-fi flick is sure to bring the action in visually compelling scenes perfect for audiences of all ages.

Rated PG for sequences of sci-fi action violence and brief mild language.

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ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 8, 2010

Wrapping up a year in student fashion Sydney Presley Clarion Staff Writer

As 2010 comes to a close, we say a loving goodbye to certain fashion trends of the past year.

On the other hand, we cannot wait to see some of those trends disappear–hopefully forever.

This is a look back at the highs and lows in men’s and women’s styles.

For the ladies, it was all about vintage.

Lace was everywhere: on shirts, dresses, and even leggings.

Shoulder pads from the 1980’s reappeared in dresses and jackets.

High-waisted bottoms were another blast from the past that resurfaced in 2010.

As for accessories, everything from rings, earrings, and necklaces were covered in crosses.

For men, it was all about cleaning up their styles and becoming more fashion-conscious this year.

Most men also took on vintage-inspired look, such as clean-cut hairstyles, dress shirts for everyday use, and pea coat.

Salvaged denim was a hot item, as were native American-inspired prints in jackets and shirts.

Last year’s flannels were dressed up with leather jackets, military jackets, and especially, denim jackets.

“Hipster” fashions became more widespread and accepted.

An odd fashion accessory that

Sydney Presley, Citrus College Clarion

caught on with some men and women alike were fox and raccoon tails, now seen hanging off purses and belt loops everywhere.

Of course, not all of 2010’s trends are destined to be longlasting hits.

Ladies, start growing out the shaved side of your head.

Haircuts that required females to shave half of their

long, beautiful hair, has lost its novelty and its adherents now face a long road back to recovery.

As far as huge, oversized bows, let’s leave the craziness to Ms. Gaga.

One fashion faux pas to blame Ke$ha for are the furry hats with wolf-like ears and mittens attached.

Comfy? Yes. Warm? Maybe.

Cute? Definitely not.

Furry hats belong on the heads of the kind men who chop down our Christmas trees.

Novelty trends do, thankfully, go away.

Citrus students will surely be sporting fresh, new looks in 2011.

We are looking forward to fashion’s next Big Thing.

Got finals? Check out these tips Troye Waldron Clarion Staff Writer

There are several factors that are preventing some students from fully engaging with their studies and achieving academic success.

So here are five tips to help students through finals week.

1. Limit the amount of time you spend on the Internet.

Checking your Facebook messages every five minutes while doing your homework never works out well.

As far as surfing the web while cramming for an exam, just forget about it.

Resisting the urge to Google your favorite celebrity is the best choice for a serious student striving to excel.

London’s Daily Mail revealed studies done by a team of psychologists showing statistics of college students who spend long periods of time on Facebook.

According to the studies students who use Facebook have an average GPA of 3.06, while those who don’t use the famous social network earn a GPA of 3.82.

2. Never watch more than two hours of TV a day.

Watching television is a relaxing way to wind down after a long day, but overusing the tube is unacceptable for anyone planning to become a successful student.

That episode of “Grey’s Anatomy” or “Glee” may be entertaining, however, the real question is will it help you finish that math assignment or a re-

McClatchy-Tribune Services

search paper?

In order to make sure that you are getting the most out of your TV watching time record your favorite shows and watch them later.

3. When doing homework or studying, turn off you phone.

This is one of the most important rules in achieving academic success.

Anybody with a cell phone can recall a time when they were trying to do something important, but they were constantly disturbed by their phone.

Sometimes it seems as if our phones own us rather than the other way around.

The simple act of turning them off relieves most students of the stress that tends to build up toward the end of the semester.

4. Save all serious gaming for the weekends.

Sometimes that extra game of Madden, or that extra round of “Call of Duty” can destroy your grades.

Student gamers need to learn to resist the urge to turn on the Playstation or Xbox during the middle of the week when assigned a heavy load of homework.

Students need to focus in order to achieve and maintain academic excellence.

So, while studying for a final exam, do yourself the favor: shut off the video games and clear your mind.

5. Choose your study locations wisely.

Bedrooms and comfortable couches can sometimes turn into danger zones, especially for a tired student.

Try studying at a table or a desk where you can fully focus.

Also, always remember that while blasting music is good for some students, others would flounder in a loud environment.

Don’t let yourself fail this semester.

Your own personal entertainment can wait, it’s time to focus on your future now.

DECEMBER 8, 2010

ENTERTAINMENT

19

FAVORITE

HOLIDAY

ACTIVITES

GO ICE SKATING AT A LOCAL ICE RINK Daniel Rodriguez, Citrus College Clarion

Citrus singers sing and dance to christmas tunes during the “Christams Is...” performance on Dec. 4.

‘Christmas Is...’ too long Susea Guitron Sydney Presley Clarion Staff Writers

“Christmas Is…” produced by the fine and performing arts department is a large production.

However, whether or not this holiday tradition at Citrus College is directed towards the right demographic is a topic for discussion.

This year’s “Christmas Is…” opened with solid performances by the Citrus Singers, the Women’s Ensemble, and the Men’s Choir.

The Citrus Singers, conducted by Douglas Austin, performed Christmas classics such as, “Silent Night,” “Silver Bells” and “Let It Snow.”

Followed by the Women’s Ensemble conducted by Keely Milliken, who delivered among many powerful performances, a beautiful rendition of “O Holy Night.”

The Men’s Ensemble, conducted again

by Douglas Austin, returned for a haunting

performance of “Prayer of the Children.”

Vocal Director Martin Green and Orchestra Conductor, William Hoehne, led the Concert Choir and Orchestra in closing off the first half of “Christmas Is…” with two last songs: “Christmas Bells Are Ringing” and “Christmas Medley.”

Citrus College has many talented student performers who put on a beautiful show, but as a start to what is supposed to be an upbeat event, this 23 song set list was too lengthy, despite the quick transitions between songs and singing groups.

After intermission, the show took a complete 180-degree turn with a storyline that follows the Santa Claus narrative.

Out came costumes and large background sets.

The same singers who were previously robed in dark colors were now singing and dancing in Technicolor outfits.

This is where the show got the blood pumping through the hearts of the audience.

Act Two tells the story of a young baker

who is looking for the recipe for “The Perfect Christmas Treat,” a trek that leads the audience on a journey through his imagination.

The story was heart-warming with many comical moments, although some of the jokes were a bit out of place.

Arizona’s controversial immigration law was referenced, and an appearance from “Jersey Shore”-inspired characters seemed inappropriate.

Though these jokes might be considered an effort to reach out to the college student demographic, unfortunately, few students were actually in attendance.

The audience included mostly small children, parents and grandparents.

Of course, the children were there to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus, whereas the adults were there most likely to listen to classic Christmas carols.

Nevertheless, the production was a whole-hearted effort by students in the fine and performing arts department, and an appreciated one at that.

MAKE A GINGERBREAD HOUSE

MAKE HOLIDAY COOKIES AND APPLE CIDER

Star shines in ‘Holidance’ Natalie Miranda Clarion Entertainment Editor

Even though a dance performance may seem like a bunch of random steps, twirls and jumps thrown together with some jazz hands, it is much more than that.

For Jairus Pecson-Aquino, 20, a theater and dance major, choreographing a piece for the upcoming Holidance performance is anything but easy.

“I think the hard part is you always want to top your last one [performance],” Pecson-Aquino said. “You don’t want to regress.”

Yes, this is his fourth time choreographing for “Holidance,” but he still faces the challenge of standing out from the other student choreographers and adjusting his material to his dancer’s abilities.

One factor that helps Pecson-Aquino is the mentoring he receives from his dance professors, he said.

“Jairus is incredibly creative,” said John Vaughn, director of “Holidance.” “He does such very different modern based movement and he wants to do this for a living. He’s got a really nice future ahead of him.”

Michelle Shear, a dance instructor at

Citrus and mentor to Jairus describes him as “my ideal student.”

“He is committed serious about dance, pushes himself on his own, takes corrections, creative, a positive role model in the classroom, has a passion for the art of dance, and has a hunger to be the best withing himself. He will be a contribution to the dance world as he continues to grow as an artist.”

“Holidance” is being presented on Dec. 17, but his piece is not yet complete.

Every rehearsal calls for experimentation and “something different,” Pecson-Aquino said.

“It’s always changing. It’s never finished,” he said.

Pecson-Aquino’s piece in “Holidance” is a modern/contemporary dance. The dancers depict falling snow, he said.

“We [choreographers] choose the music. I think it was the music that really inspired me,” he said, when asked about his inspiration.

Aside from choreographing and rehearsing for “Holidance,” Pecson-Aquino is also a dancer in “Christmas Is…,” taking classes and working.

Even though he is exhausted at the end

of the day, “you got to do what you love.”

“My mom always tells me I have to prioritize. My priority is not making money, my priority is performing and dancing,” said Pecson-Aquino. “It feels so good because you’re doing what you love, and other people can’t say the same. So I’m lucky.”

Pecson-Aquino also considers himself lucky because his parents support his goal of becoming a choreographer on the professional level.

“Once they saw me perform for the first time, they saw how much potential I have and how much I love it,” he said. “They support me no matter what. There’s others that don’t get supported as much and I’m so lucky.”

While he loves performing, PecsonAquino sees himself as a professor or a choreographer, not a professional performer, he said.

“My main goal is to be a professor of dance,” he said.

“Holidance” will be presented on Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. in the Haugh Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $12 for general admission, and $10 for students and seniors.

GRAB SOME OF YOUR CLOSEST FRIENDS AND GO CAROLING IN YOUR LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD

BUILD A SNOWMAN Photos courtesy of McClatchy-Tribune Services

20

SPOTLIGHT

DECEMBER 8, 2010

Kristin Lacuesta, Citrus College Clarion

TOP: Students in the upcoming “Holidance” performance practice the difficult dance routine involving a lift during the “Nutcracker” scene.

LEFT: Students in the performing arts department rehearse for the upcoming holiday show, “Holidance,” taking place on Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. in the Haugh Performing Arts Center.

Jonathan Pettit, Citrus College Clarion

Students perform mash up of spirit, dance It’s that time of year for performing arts students to grace the stage of the Haugh Performing Arts Center for the annual holiday dance production, “Holidance.”

Under the direction of dance professor John Vaughan, the third annual “Holidance” takes on a different approach by showcasing the winter holidays, not just Christmas.

The 22 dancers in the show will be

performing 16 works, each highlighting a different cultural holiday, including Hanukah, Kwanzaa and Christmas.

Classics such as “The Nutcracker” and “Dreidel Song” exemplify different takes on the holiday season celebrated in this production.

A Hawaiian themed dance, a tap dance solo, and a Rockette-style finale guaranteed to entertain.

Some of the dance numbers are even

choreographed by students.

Student choreographer Jairus PecsonAquino said that the music is what inspires him to create the dance routines.

“Jairus is incredibly creative,” Vaughan said. “He does such a very different modern based movement.”

The performers started rehearsing their “Holidance” numbers in early September.

The dancers, costumes and choreog-

raphy, as well as musical selections are sure to be a real holiday treat for audiences of all ages.

“Holidance” will be performed Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. in the Haugh Performing Arts Center. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for seniors or students with a valid Citrus ID. To purchase tickets, visit www.haughpac.com