Vol 49 Issue 7 (February 22, 2017)

Lariat WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22, 2016 // VOL. 49, NO. 7 LARIATNEWS.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/LARIATNEWS twitter.com/lariatnews | twitter.com/lariatsports

Getting your sh*t together isn't so easy. Get to know your astrological sign and what you're in for // page 12

the student voice of Saddleback College since 1968

"If you don’t vote democrat when you’re young you don’t have heart. If you don’t vote republican when you’re older then you don’t have a brain." PAGE 8

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Men's basketball loses OEC title but will still host playoff opener Saturday

SPORTS

Cassano's Pizza: Back on the streets of San Clemente feeding hearts and mouths.

LIFE

Trump's presence on Planned Parenthood and what that means for students.

OPINION

NEWS

Travel ban effects on International Students at Saddleback College.

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News

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017

Travel ban raises concerns for international students International student’s affected

by Trump’s executive order ALYSSA HAYES NEWS EDITOR

On January 27, President Trump signed executive order 13769 Protecting the Nation from Terrorist attacks by foreign nationals. This executive order forced the Department of State to provisionally revoke all valid visas of nationals from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

Saddleback college president Tod Burnett issued an email reaffirming the colleges commitment to all following the executive order.

“During this time of confusing rhetoric, and uncertainty, Saddleback College wishes to reaffirm our values of inclusiveness and diversity. Our primary job is to educate all students who stand to benefit from higher education. We continually strive to create a welcoming environment where all people can learn and grow” Burnett said .

Saddleback college has over 200 international students that are here on F-1 Visas. The students from the 7 countries listed in the executive order have come forward with concerns of how this ban affects them. Some students are concerned with what happens after graduation. As it is now, after graduation students are allowed to remain in the united states for 1 year after graduation while working.

“Students are concerned about what the next step is, and if this benefit will continue to apply to them” said Angela Yang, director of international students program for Saddleback college

SHAYAN EBRAHIM/COURTESY

WE THE PEOPLE, PROTEST: Protesters came out to Los Angeles international airport in response to President Trump’s international travel ban The international students office is the first place international students turn to for advice on how to handle the effects of the executive order. One student was is unable to see her family for spring break, and had to cancel her trip because not only is she not allowed to return to her home country, but her family member’s visas were also rejected and they are not allowed to visit her in the united states.

“These are families just visiting each other, her parents can’t even come here for a week to visit, and she can’t go there” said Jennie Mccue, director of Marketing and Communications for Saddleback College.

International students from Saddleback College contribute more to the college than just cultural diversity. The National association for foreign student advisers finds that of the 1,043,839 international students studying in the U.S. colleges and universities contributed $32.8

billion and supported more than 400,000 jobs during the 20152016 academic year, and the international students from Saddleback contributed $5.3 million to the local economy and supported 33 local jobs. International students pay a much higher rate for tuition, and very few of them have a sponsor, forcing them to pay the tuition fees on their own.

“You hear so much about what they are getting from us, but it really is a symbiotic relationship” Mccue said.

International students face a variety of challenges, language being the most difficult, but some of the international students also feel isolated being in a new country and learning new culture. In an effort to assist in social integration, the international students department has several activities and events to help keep them engaged in campus activities. Every Tuesday they have peer mentorship

“SEE YOU IN COURT, THE SECURITY OF OUR NATION IS AT STAKE.” President Trump

where domestic students and international students will meet in the quad and play games, and converse and try to build friendship. They hold a monthly workshop that helps with matriculation, and the adjustment adapting to a new culture.

Because there is not definite time frame of when or if the appeal may happen students may still have concerns. At this time Yang encourages international students to communicate their concerns and to continue to participate in campus events that encourage community, friendship, and diversity.

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vol. 49, no. 2

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Race, Sexism and Nicki Minaj Scholar speaks on the singer’s place in pop culture JOCELYN CERVANTES LIFE EDITOR

The Women’s and Gender Studies Advisory Committee and Sociology Department invited UC San Diego’s Dr. Jillian Hernandez to speak to Saddleback students on Tuesday, Feb. 14 afternoon about artist Nicki Minaj’s Rococo aesthetics. Dr. Hernandez began working with Women on the Rise! to help empower and mentor young girls, teaching them through contemporary art.

“I established Women on the Rise! to create a space for girls of color to express themselves and learn about the work of women artists of color, whose histories have been consistently erased” said

Hernandez, “The workshops provide a forum for discussion on issues like body image, relationships, and pop culture.”

When Hernandez overheard a conversation between a group of girls debating if artist Nicki Minaj was real, Hernandez’s interest in Minaj’s transformation as an artist before and after she signed to Young Money Entertainment led to her discovering a rococo aesthetics symbolized in Nicki Minaj’s performances and image.

Rococo is an artistic style that began in France during the 18th century.

The Rococo movement embodied what the Baroque movement could not, asymmetrical designs and curves, light colors, elegance, gold, beauty and scandalous women. Many would associate Marie Antoinette’s lifestyle with the Rococo style as the Rococo movement represented the lives of the french aristocrats.

During the lecture, Hernandez argued why

NICKI MINAJ TRANSFORMED/ FRANCESCO VEZZOLI

Minaj’s body image has been criticized by society and why many believe she is fake. When Minaj released the cover art for her single Anaconda, society criticized her for exposing her butt. However, when magazine Sports Illustrated released a similar cover, the magazine was

praised for it. Hernandez believes Minaj’s negative critics about the artist’s image is due to gender, race, sexuality, fakery and beauty. Minaj is a woman of color, while the supermodels on the magazine were Caucasian.

In 2011, photographer Francesco Vezzoli

captured Minaj’s Rococo aesthetics for W magazine. Dressing Minaj in french aristocrat dresses and wigs, Minaj looked to belong in Marie Antoinette Era. The photographs not only capture the beauty of Minaj but as well as how the Rococo movement still lives through Minaj’s image.

Rococo artists painted scandalous women showing their breast, putting on makeup, something that was forbidden to show women in the 18th century.

“Nicki Minaj’s aesthetic are in line with rococo style. She doesn’t purposefully use the term rococo, but her ornate styles and consistent use of pink can be described as rococo,” said Hernandez.

Hernandez draws the connection between 18th century french Rococo artists and Nicki Minaj, concluding the Rococo artist and Minaj receive negative critics due to race, sexuality, gender, beauty and the persona of fakery.

Who is the Supreme Court judge nominee?

ALYSSA HAYES NEWS EDITOR

President Donald Trump has made his selection for the new supreme court justice. President Trump’s nominee is Neil Gorsuch, an ultra-conservative who was appointed to the US court of appeals 10th circuit by George W Bush. Gorsuch is described as a “textualist” and an “originalist” meaning he interprets the constitution literally and without considering societal evolutions.

Here is a brief look at his stance on some of the issues Abortion- Gorsuch has yet to take an official stand on the topic.

Gorsuch and demand he clearly affirm his support for Roe v Wade, using the slogan ‘no Roe, no go’. Gorsuch favors religious freedom rights and in the case of Hobby Lobby v Sibelius he sided with Hobby Lobby.

Assisted suicide- Gorsuch is clearly against the practice of Euthanasia and from his 2006 book Future of Assisted suicide

and euthanasia, Gorsuch writes “All Human beings are intrinsically valuable and the intentional taking of a human life by private means is always wrong.”

EnvironmentGorsuch opposes federal agencies to interpret the law, however he did uphold the Colorado Renewable energy standards.

Guns- Another topic he has no clear record on. However, in 2013, he did side with the lower court’s ruling that no charges should be filed against a police

officer who used a Taser on and subsequently killed a 22-yearold student.

Education- There are 4 school related cases pending, including a case regarding whether a Christian school in Missouri is entitled to compete for the same dollars as non-religious schools. Gorsuch has repeatedly ruled against the rights of students with disabilities.

Gorsuch could be confirmed as early as mid-April pending senate approval.

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Opinion

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017

Lariat “Saddleback’s student-run newspaper since 1968” Editor-in-Chief Holly Bartlow News Editor Alyssa Opinion Editor Lesley Naranjo Life Editors Jocelyn Joseph Managing Editor Collin Faculty Advisers Tim Posada MaryAnne Shults Instructional Assistant Ali Dorri

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Mimi Walters: Not our Congresswomen LESLEY NARANJO OPINION EDITOR

Orange County residents and organizations protested outside of Mimi Walters office in Irvine Tuesday, Jan. 31. Orange County residents are upset that Walters has yet to hold a city hall meeting since she has been elected.

Democrats tried to stop Walters from running for office in 2012 because they claimed she was not a resident of the 37th district. Many residents are saying she’s currently not a resident of the 45th district, but Walters claims she has lived in Laguna Hills since 1999. Yet currently, Walters is nowhere to be found in Orange County.

Walters is not our congresswoman because she does not reflect Orange County’s progression, if anything she is a road block to the path of progress.

For example, Walters wants to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, is in favor of the Keystone XL Pipeline, and wants to defund Planned Parenthood.

In November 2016 on election night, Orange County flipped Democratic. According to the LA Times this was the first time the county went blue in 40 years. Although the county swung blue by only five points it was enough to cause a roar within the community causing residents to continue protesting until their voices were heard.

Under an administration like Trump’s the people have become the watchdog. Walters told MSNBC she felt that Orange County didn’t “get” Trump’s message.

Walters, what’s to “get”?

How could you say that to people who are surrounded by diversity? It is time Orange County’s progression is shown in our

LESLEY NARANJO / LARIAT NEWS

SILENCE IS INJUSTICE: College student, Guni Abeyseker, holds a sign outside of Rep. Walters’ office We reelected you and we hope you stand by with the statement you made to the OC Register back in 2015 stating:

“[The Muslim ban] does not represent conservative values nor the principles” upon” which this country was founded.”

Walters, it is time to stop hiding in the shadows of your Republican party, come out to Orange County, and address your constituents concerns.

Where do you stand with this “Muslim” ban? Do you think building a wall on the

Mexican border will actually keep illegal immigrants out of our country? Why have you yet to respond to the people who put you in office? Orange County is home to many immigrants, first generation born, and diverse students that could be directly affected by a ban or a wall.

“Walters is accountable and it is her duty to talk to us.” said Andrea Milne, co-founder of Feminist Illuminati of UC Irvine.

Among these protesters were medical students, teachers, and parents. These protests have been organized with the Democratic Socialists of Orange County who plan on protesting until Walters holds a town hall meeting.

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vol. 49, no. 2

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It’s my body and I’ll choose if I want to “We protect and promote the fundamental right of all individuals to make their own personal health” HOLLY BARTLOW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

President Donald Trump signed an executive order to defund Planned Parenthood internationally Tuesday, Jan. 27, with the United States in his sights next.w To exacerbate the negative aspects of the defunding, not only is Donald Trump’s executive order concerning, but his Supreme Court pick Neil Gorsuch is also a strong supporter of defunding Planned Parenthood.

“The future is grim and uncertain,” said Nichole Ramirez Planned Parenthood’s Vice President of Marketing Communications, “but we will fight so that we can continue to provide patients with affordable, high-quality care like we have for the past 100 years.”

This leaves many American women in panic about the future who rely solely on Planned Parenthood for their healthcare.

The majority of these women are mainly college students living on low-income wages or without healthcare, and defunding Planned Parenthood would dramatically affect them, Ramirez said.

“It would be detrimental to the 850,000 low-income women and men in California,” she said.

“For many people, Planned Parenthood is their only source of healthcare. Planned Parenthood medical visits make up one-third of all family planning visits in California.”

Planned Parenthood is one of the largest providers in reproductive health services within the United States. It offers sexual and reproductive health as well as sex education. This reaches out to nearly 5 million women, men and adolescents worldwide.

ILLUSTRATION | MILES MORALES

(DAVE BLESDSOE/FLICKR)

OUT, OUT, OUT: To protest the defunding of Planned Parenthood, a woman illustrates her rights.

“Every individual has the knowledge, freedom, and power to achieve reproductive health.”

Planned Parenthood

There is a misinterpreted stigma behind Planned Parenthood that its services geared predominantly towards abortion.

According to CNN, only 3 percent of all services are abortions, while the remaining 34 percent are for contraception, and lastly 45 percent for STD screening and treatment.

There is something to be said for this and the idea that Planned Parenthood is used mainly for abortions is a false accusation.

In fact it’s students like us that use Planned Parenthood as a source for birth control, with little to no cost at all.

With defunding about to be-

come a reality where does that leave us? It leaves women, especially students, with little to no access to reasonably priced birth control. Besides birth control, check up visits and screenings for women would now come with a heavy price if uninsured, leaving women unable to be seen or stay in optimal health.

Not only this but also confidentiality is at stake regarding young teens looking for a place to safely disclose sexual history and obtain birth control without parents becoming involved.

With less access to contraceptives come more unplanned births and more women having to sacrifice their ambitions and educational goals due to unplanned pregnancies.

“Our organization prevents an estimated 579,000 unintended pregnancies per year and provide sex education to 1.5 million young people and adults each year,” according to the Planned Parenthood website.

It is up to us to stand up and fight for what rightly belongs to us: a woman’s body is a woman’s choice. There are numerous ways for students to get involved. Join the community action fund newsletter, make a donation, go to a local center for treatment and call your local representatives. Mobilizing your campus and getting involved in promoting sexual health and to protect women’s health. Lastly social media is the strongest outlet, let your opinion be known!

There will always be a fight for progress. With all of the advances and battles won within the female community there is no turning back now. Moving forward and fighting for all with all people. Fighting for the most vulnerable and being aware of all forms of oppression will only strengthen the fight for women’s reproductive rights.

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Life

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017

Oscars finally not-so white for once?

JOCELYN CERVANTES LIFE EDITOR

For the past few years, The Academy has failed to nominate nonwhite actors and filmmakers for an Oscar but it seems this year will bring down the reign of white supremacy. Six African-American actors were nominated- Denzel Washington (“Fences”), Viola Davis (“Fences”), Octavia Spencer (“Hidden Figures”), Ruth Negga (“Loving”), Naomie Harris (“Moonlight”), and Mahershala Ali (“Moonlight”).

This is Davis’ third nomination, the most any black actress has been nominated for while Washington breaks his own record, as this is his seventh nomination, for an African-American male actor. Dev Patel’s (“Lion”) nomination for Best Supporting Role breaks the record of seven nonwhite acting nominations.

Other African-American nominees for non acting categories include Barry Jenkins (Moonlight), Alvin McCraney (“Moonlight”), August Wilson (“Fences”), and Bradford Young (“Arrival”). Joi McMillon (“Moonlight”) is the first African-American woman to be nominated in the Editing category.

Four of the five films nominated for Best Documentary were made by filmmakers of color and star nonwhite actors include Raoul

HOPPER STONE/SONY PICTURES

OSCAR SEASON APROACHES: Taraji p. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe star in hidden figures.

Peck’s I an nor your Negro, starting Samuel L. Jackson, Ava DuVernay’s 13th, Ezra Edelman’s “O.J.: Made in American miniseries,” and Rodger Ross Williams’ “Life, Animated,” based on the novel of the same name, the documentary focuses on the life on autistic man, Owen Suskind. Suskind stars in the documentary as himself.

Meryl Streep snagged a nomination for her role in Florence Foster Jenkins, breaking a record for most nominations, man or woman. This is Streep’s 20th nomination beating

Katharine Hepburn and Jack Nicholson, both received 12 nominations.

Although The Academy has nominated six African-American actors, breaking a record, it lacks any Latinos, Asian, Muslim and other minorities nominees in any of the acting and filmmaking categories. And women nominated in a non acting category are slim, almost non existing.

A new era for the Oscars has arrived to the red carpet and it is time these talented actors get recognition.

Cassano’s keeping tradition alive in San Clemente After 28 years of business, they’re back at the pizza-cutting board with its original menu choices JOSEPH BUTKUS LIFE EDITOR

Cassano’s Pizza has been around for nearly three decades bringing pizza to the hearts and mouths of fellow locals and tourists alike.

Owners Dave Cassano and Sharron Torres shop on Avenida Victoria was practically a historical landmark. Since then they have moved to 818 S.El

Camino Real and are still keeping the local pizza spot alive and well.

“It’s great to be back”, Torres said in an August 2015 San Clemente Times article. “The support from the community has been unbelievable. It’s great to feel part of the community again, we missed it.

When walking into the restaurant, employees kindly greet their guests making the

experience easy and comfortable. They sit them down in the dining room area or by the bar where they can have a number of drinks on tap and kind bartenders who are always there to take orders and provide excellent service.

The walls are lined with for sale art pieces, which brings the small town feel to the restaurant. This family owned restaurant also happily allows sponsorships with local organizations, keeping the sense of community first priority.

The food was excellent and affordable, even the eyes of a frugal man would be overjoyed

at the sight of these prices. One would think that the quality of the food would even make the place a high end restaurant.

The prominent menu item had to be their meatball sandwich which looked, smelled, and tasted authentic and created with integrity.

They make the sandwich with fresh ingredients putting in five generously sized meatballs per sandwich making it worth splitting between two people. For the starving, this sandwich alone would satisfy anyones hunger.

However, if there’s room left, they offer personal 8- inch

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vol. 49, no. 2

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John Wick’s 2nd coming lives up to the 1st The world has waited three years for the hero’s return AUSTIN WEATHERMAN CONTRIBUTOR

The world has waited 3 years for the second coming of “John Wick”, and it did not disappoint.

Stealing his car and killing his dog only lit the match to this glorious wildfire of a series, the ex-hitman is back with a higher kill count than before and a greater mission, kill everyone.

“John Wick: Chapter 2” sets the bar for action films to come.

Jumping straight into where the plot left off, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is still trying to retire his killer lifestyle and settle down with his new nameless dog, but that could never happen.

A blood promise surfaces from past dealings, tossing him right back into the bloodshed. The actors’ performances

LIONSGATE ENTERTAINMENT

SO MUCH DEATH: Keanu Reeves plays on John Wick in the explosive sequel. throughout the film were just phenomenal.

High five to the writers for creating such a diverse cast to love or hate. A standout performance comes the main antagonist Santino D’Antonio (Riccardo Scamarcio), giving the audience the perfect villain we’ve all dreamed of killing.

Reeves stays stone cold through-

out the film, the perfect hitman we wished “Hitman” could have been. But in reality, if Wick and Agent 47 fought, Wick would definitely win.

Cinematography is a tough subject for most films, but director Chad Stahelski gets it right.

The camera keeps you up close and personal while Wick continues to fight through the seem-

JOSEPH BUTKUS/LARIAT

EYE FEAST: The peanut butter bacon pizza is available at Cassano’s, located in San Clemente.

and large 16-inch pizzas to share. They have the traditional cheese, pepperoni, and sausage pizzas along with some unique ones that are worth a try.

The peanut butter and bacon pizza oddly has a flavoring system that appeals to the palette and the St. Patty’s pizza, a slice of Ireland, includes corned beef, mustard, onion, sauerkraut, and mozzarella.

If anyone’s in the mood for Irish cuisine, this place could oddly satisfy the craving.

The more unique house pizzas cost $18.95 for the 16-inch and $8.95 for the 8-inch and a normal cheese

ingly endless enemies, but keeps you at a distance, not wasting any acrobatic moments of his fighting style: badass.

Extravagant plot lines are not the goal of the series, considering the first film was based off avenging his dog’s death and getting his car back. Stahelski and the team of writers keep enough of a story together to keep pushing Wick into diverse problems, but it’s John Wick. He can do anything. A very unique aspect of the “John Wick” films is the creative on screen text that pops up when he is on the phone or direct dialogue with other characters.

Ruby Rose plays Ares, a deaf henchman of Santino. When she uses sign language to talk, comic book like titles pop up translating the various signs. The text is such a small part of the production, but sets the film apart from the other action films. The film grossed $30 million on opening weekend, and respectfully so. “John Wick: Chapter 2” is definitely worth the $12 for the amazing cinematic experience. pizza costs $5.95. It is advisable to try their house pizzas though, as they really are something special and have been a part of their family’s recipe book for years.

Cassano’s delivers through their restaurant and multiple food delivery apps such as door dash. They also do pickups so anyone can come in, pay, and get out quickly.

Lunch is an especially great time to go as dinner can attract larger crowds, especially on weekends.

Next time you find yourself on the streets of San Clemente make it a priority to check this place out. Your tastebuds will not be disappointed.

ASG Takes D.C.

ASG visits the Urban League (main photo), attending the California State Society Presidential Luncheon at the Ritz Carlton (bottom left), the crowd anticipating Donald Trump in front of the Capitol (bottom right) Inauguration Ceremonies admission ticket (top left) (photos courtesy of ASG).

Student government spent the new year in the capitol, stopped by the inauguration, taking in the nation’s historical sites COLIN REEF

I

MANAGING EDITOR t was Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, when our very own Associated Student Government touched down in our nation’s capitol. A long, coast-to-coast flight was followed by dinner at Nando’s Peri-Peri, an afro-Portuguese fusion style restaurant, home of the African Bird’s Eye Chili. After a unique South African dining experience, the team rendezvoused towards American University on Embassy Road, where they would recharge for the night.

On Wednesday morning, the team awoke in excitement for the day’s activities. It started with a visit to Georgetown University and a trip down history lane at the National Museum of American History. The First Ladies exhibit was the first of many on the day’s agenda.

This particular exhibit explores the unofficial but important position of the first lady and the ways that different women have shaped the role to make their own contributions to the presidential administrations and the nation. The exhibition features more than two dozen gowns from the Smithsonian’s almost 100-year old First Ladies Collection, including those worn by Jacqueline Kennedy, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama.

After their tour of the museum the team was given access to the Philip A. Hart Senate Office building, which is the third U.S. Senate office building. There they saw Kamala Devi Harris, an attorney and politician who is the junior U.S. Senator from California.

She is a member of the Democratic Party and served as the 32nd Attorney General of California.

“The Senate office was fascinating and reminded me of the way an emergency room at a hospital operates,” said Alyssa Oliver, ASG representative and Director of Honors Student Council, “Staffers and interns were buzzing about, planning our nation’s future and making some of the most important legislative decisions. It really was very interesting to see such a juxtaposition of power and normalcy in the workplace.”

The day ended with dinner at the Old Ebbitt Grill, a famous oyster bar and favorite spot of past Presidents Grover Cleveland and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. It’s Beaux-Arts decor, velvet-lined booths, and mahogany rich furniture makes this a perfect spot for business moguls, politicians, and journalists alike.

The team was able to sleep in on the following day until about 10:30 a.m. After a much needed night’s rest, they made their way to the California State Society Presidential Inaugural Luncheon at the Ritz Carlton.

It’s goal was to bring entrepreneurs, young philanthropic businesses, and politicians of California together.

Mission Viejo’s very own Mayor Wendy Bucknum sat at the same table with our Associated Student Government.

“She was incredible, very articulate and seemed really excited to be talking with us,” said Oliver, “She discussed with us her concerns about affordable housing for young adults in the Southern Orange County area. She reiterated that housing costs are simply way too high and it ultimately detracts younger people from coming into the city.”

After a truly eye-opening experience, the team was invited to attend the National Republican Club on Capitol Hill for representative Mimi Walters, where a gang of republicans and conservatives gathered to discuss policy implementation.

“The room was mostly republicans, hence the name of the event. Many people there assumed we were right wing party members and were shocked to find out that most of us were indeed democrats,” said Oliver, “One person I spoke with said something I will never forget… He said, ‘You know if you don’t vote democrat when you’re young you don’t have heart. But if you don’t vote republican when you’re older than you don’t have a brain.”

Although ASG was surrounded by people with conflicting ideologies, the republicans there were enthralled to be conversing with students so committed to politics.

That following Friday was the big day.

The day a new President would be crowned.

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ashington D.C. - Donald J. Trump became the 45th President of the United States on Jan. 20, 2017, capping off one of the most polarizing and media-driven elections to date. The world tuned in on their laptops, smartphones, and television sets to hear what the new President of the United States had to say about the future of the United States. Others, such as Saddleback College’s very own Associated Student Government, attended the inauguration and have first hand accounts of the many attitudes and feelings that surrounded President Trump on his election day.

“Today’s ceremony has very special meaning because today we are not merely transferring power from one administration to another, or from one party to another,” said President Trump, “but we are transferring power from Washington D.C. and giv-

ing it back to you, the people.”

In a time of transformative change and political opposition, Trump made it clear that returning power to people was of top priority. He promises to balance and restore the nation by creating new jobs and wealth for American citizens alike. He promises to alleviate our streets of poverty, crime, drugs, and failed businesses. He seeks to enrich American industry and give rise to its infrastructure that he states has fallen into disrepair and decay. His voice speaks to countless Americans who feel as if our nation has been ignored or disregarded them.

“For too many of our citizens, a different reality exists: mothers and children trapped in poverty in our inner cities; rusted out factories scattered like tombstones across the landscape of our nation,” said President Trump. “An education system flushed with cash, but which leaves our young and beau-

tiful students deprived of all knowledge; and the crime and the gangs and the drugs that have stolen too many lives and robbed our country of so much unrealized potential.”

There is no doubt that people feel somewhat let down by the previous administration. Hence, the “Make America Great Again,” slogan that Trump’s campaign has been piggy-backing on for quite some time.

So, one would think that in order to make America great again there would have had to be something clearly wrong with it in the first place. Trump’s inaugural speech was riddled with grim generalizations of the country’s well-being that painted a picture of a nation in shackles, which to many seemed promising and to others a blunt exaggeration.

Throughout the day, over 200 people in opposition of President Trump were arrested near downtown Washington D.C. because of rioting and violent protests. Democrats and liberals in opposition of President Trump were galvanized for taking to the streets, but what about the attitudes of conservatives at the actual inauguration?

“Whatever our race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, whether we are immigrant or native-born, whether we live with disabilities or do not, in wealth or in poverty, we are all exceptional in our commonly held, yet fierce devotion to our country, and in our willingness to sacrifice our time, energy, and even our lives to making it a more perfect union.” said Chuck Schumer, an American politician, the senior United States senator from New York and a member of the Democratic Party, during his speech on behalf of the president.

Ironically, Schumer’s speech was continuously interrupted by many Trump supporters. A barrage of insensitive chants made it next to impossible to hear most of what

Schumer had to say.

“During that time, chants of ‘Cut the mic, cut the mic’ persisted,” said Alyssa Oliver, ASG representative and director of Honors Student Council, “The chants continued and gained enough momentum to the point where you could no longer hear his speech.”

The crowd was harboring tones of resentment and hostility making it hard to be confident in the latter statements regarding a return of power to the people. If a presidential inauguration feels more like a sports rally or a riot then how in the world can peaceful protests in other places ensue?

How can constructive criticism in a democratic system ever flourish if opposition is so rampant?

When Hillary Clinton came out on stage a plethora of angry chants were also voiced throughout the crowd. Oliver recalls hearing people shouting, “Lock her up, lock her up!”

She even saw Trump supporters wearing shirts with Hilary on the front with a quote bubble that read “Hillary in chains.”

Between the angry left luding and rioting in downtown Washington D.C. and the bewildered right slandering names of important United States officials as well as being disrespectful of speakers at the inauguration, I’d say this immediate return of power to the people does nothing but inflate the minds and hearts of both parties; creating more separation rather than less, rendering feelings of intolerance.

It truly is up to us to show our new administration and the world that we can indeed govern ourselves. But, first we must prove to each other that we can accept change, we can tolerate each other, and we can think constructively to better ourselves and our neighbors, for the benefit of our country as a whole.

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Sports

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017

The Harlem Globetrotters A Brief History

Beyond the antics is a lasting basketball heritage COLIN REEF

MANAGING EDITOR

The world famous Harlem Globetrotters returned to the Saddleback College gymnasium on Monday, Feb. 13, 2017.

The Harlem Globetrotter dazzled the crowd with their iconic basketball routine that combines theatrics, comedy, and pure athletic skill. They showcased their mesmerizing basketball abilities for the second year in row and it was nothing short of captivating.

“I am excited to celebrate 90 iconic years of providing smiles, sportsmanship, and service to millions,” said Howard Smith, CEO and President of basketball operations.

“The Harlem Globetrotters are a worldwide icon, synonymous with one-ofa-kind family entertainment and great basketball skills.”

Since their very first game in Hinckley, Illinois, on Jan. 7, 1927, the Harlem Globetrotters have wowed as many as 144 million different people in over 120 countries worldwide. They have successfully pioneered rim rattling dunks, savvy

ANGEL GRADY/LARIAT ARCHIVE

SLAM DUNK: A close-up shot of a Harlem Globetrotter receiving

and finsishing an alley oop, electrifying the entire audience.

and well-orchestrated fast break strategies coupled with an up-tempo style of basketball unparalleled by any other professional teams seen today.

After their swift defeat of the world champion Minneapolis Lakers in both 1948 and 1949 the Harlem Globetrotters became a notable figure head in the basketball world..

Nathaniel “Sweetwater” Clifton was one member of that world renowned team to defeat the Minneapolis Lakers. That prominent victory and his exceptional ball-handling abilities propelled him to become one of the first African-Americans to play and be drafted into the National Basketball Association. His time with the

“She raised me and 12 other kids and was always able to take us out to do fun activities.”

Kris “Hi-Lite” Bruton New York Knickerbockers in 1950 set the precedent for the continued integration of African-American basketball players alike.

Among the exceptional and talented members of the Harlem Globetrotters is crafty veteran and crowd favorite Kris ‘Hi-Lite’ Bruton who is characterized by his outgoing personality and high flying slam dunks. He was originally drafted by the infamous Chicago Bulls

in 1994, but became sidelined by a range of injuries. He signed a contract with the Harlem Globetrotters in 2001 and since then never looked back.

“My grandmother is my hero,” Bruton said.

“She raised me and 12 other kids and was always able to take us out to do fun activities.”

Bruton to this day uses his grandmother as inspiration and motivation to be the best Harlem Globetrot-

ter he could possibly be.

Another iconic member of the team is 6’9” forward from New Orleans, LA, Big Easy Lofton. His fun-loving and easygoing nature amounts to much short of exciting and entertaining fun when he is in the game.

Big Easy was a twotime all-Southland Conference selection from Southeastern Louisiana University and led his team in blocks, steals, rebounds and assists. During his reign at the school his team won consecutive conference titles and even made an NCAA tournament appearance his senior year.

When asked about his favorite basketball memory he recalls his last home game. It was the first game my parents ever came to watch me play; they were always working so hard to pay the bills, they’d never had the chance before.”

Lofton said. “That was my best basketball memory every.”

These two incredible performers along with their other awe-inspuiring teammates dazzled the crowd with incredible finesse. It was refreshing to see the Harlem Globetrotters continue to inspire and entertain fans. Hopefully they can continue their reign as the most fun and exciting basketball team in the world and perhaps they will find an annual home here at Saddleback College.

lariatnews.com

vol. 49, no. 7

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Gauchos lose Fullerton rematch, conference Poor free-throw shooting, mental mistakes, and a fight lead to a blowout loss in season finale COLIN REEF

MANAGING EDITOR

The Saddleback men’s basketball team drop the rock at home 74-54 on Thursday evening in their conference championship game against the Fullerton College Hornets. They finish the season with an impressive overall record of 24-4, but place second in the Orange Empire Conference for the first time since the 2010-2011 season.

The Gauchos and Hornet were locked in a stalemate for most of the first half with no considerable edge favoring either team.

The Gauchos hot shooting streak from Tuesday’s game against Santa Ana College was stifled Thursday when they missed their first five shot attempts from the field.

Starting point guard for the Hornets, Ian Fox, was relentless on the glass, pulling down five of his seven first half rebounds within the first eight minutes of the game. This made it next to

COLIN REEF/LARIAT ARCHIVE

STUNG: Fullerton defenders swarm Saddleback sophomore point guard TJ Shorts

as he attempts an off balance runner in the second half of Thursday’s 74-54 loss. impossible for the Gauchos to score any second chance points or establish any kind of presence in the post.

With 8:41 left in the first half, Josh Feitl hoisted up a deep three knotting the game at 20-20. The rest of the first half would be a barn burner, ending with two ties and seven lead changes.

Starting point guard for the Gauchos, TJ Shorts, wowed the crowd with an acrobatic floater as time expires to give the Gauchos a one point lead going into halftime. He played all 20 minutes and shot 5 of 8 from the field,

scoring 14 of the Gauchos 36 first half points.

Twenty minutes of back and forth basketball from the first half seemed to carry over in the second half. In the first three minutes we had 1 tie and three lead changes. But, after a couple made layups by the Hornets, the momentum completely shifted.

Starting center for the Gauchos, Braeon Brady, found himself tangled up with one of the Hornets underneath the opposing basket midway through the second. Two technical fouls were issued to players from both teams

after a heated skirmish following the foul on Brady.

It was at this point when the outcome of the game seemed inevitable. The Gauchos ended up shooting 20 percent from the field while the Hornets shot 45.5 percent outscoring the Gauchos 39-18.

The Gauchos weren’t able to capitalize in this game but that doesn’t mean they’re out for the count. The Gauchos will be seeded third for the upcoming state playoff tournament, and will host a team to be determined, Saturday at 7 p.m.

Get your sh*t together

February is the month of Aquarius which brings emotions. By Feb. 19, we enter Pisces, the wisest sign, so hold onto your hats, shit is about to get real.

Aries: I hope you’re as tough as you seem this month, get ready for an emotional month of truths.

Pisces: Time to jump into all of your feelings (again) but try not to do anything too dramatic. Just remember, it will be okay!

Taurus: Try not to be too stubborn this month but do cut off anything (or anyone) you don’t need.

Gemini: The drama will follow you in this short month, just know you’re not the bad guy!

Show everyone all your good sides.

Cancer: Not everyone is out to get you, well some people maybe, so watch your back and watch your pinchers, little crab.

calendar Up next at the OC DIY Feb 24: Uniform, The Side Eyes, Raukous, Blivet Feb 25: Free Weed, Adult Beverage, Playdate, Uniform Mar 2: Terminal A, Sashcloth & Axes, Flesh (NYC), and Meow Twins March 3: Clit Kat, Nightmares Enterprises, G-Spot, and Bumble Gum Mar 4: Artist Enclave #01 Open Reception Mar 8: I’m Glad It’s You, Hemingway, Iris Jupiter, Blythe

LESLEY NARANJO/LARIAT

BUFFALO LIGHTS: Avi Buffalo performs at OC DIY. More acts are scheduled to appear at OC DIY in the next months.

Obsevatory in Santa Ana: Upcoming shows Feb 25: BADBADNOTGOOD

Mar 2: Hayley Kiyoko Mar 3: Post Malone

Mar 7: Isaiah Rashad

Mar 16: Metro Boomin

Mar 10: STRFKR

Mar 17: Elvis Depressedly

Mar 12: Tchami

Mar 19: Wu-Tang Clan

Leo: You’re always looking for attention from someone but this month, give yourself some attention. Give self love the spotlight.

Virgo: It’s been an emotional month hasn’t it? It’s time to get your shit together.

Scorpio: Stay grounded this month because you might get a bit impulsive this month.

Sagittarius: Something seems to be holding you down this month and it’s time to break away from it.

Capricorn: This is an exhausting month for you so it’s okay if you need to kick back and relax.

Aquarius- It is your month! I suggest practicing self-care (It’s okay to need help!)

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