Vol 50 issue 6 (February 14, 2018)

Lariat Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 • vol. 50, no. 6 Lariatnews.com | @lariatnews | @lariatsports facebook.com/lariatnews

ONE BOOK, ONE COLLEGE. Cubbage analyzes poverty in U.S. // page 2 DIY Valentine’s Day present

How to make a succulent planter, potting soil to decorating the pot // page 6

the student voice of Saddleback College since 1968

THE VALENTINE’S ISSUE

LIZZIE WILLIAMS/LARIAT

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Galentine’s Day is too exclusionary to men, nonbinary, transgender individuals

OPINION

College finally says goodbye to the last caricature of the Gaucho mascot, Adios bandito

NEWS

For love of the game or love or a special someone, the romantic lives of student athletes

SPORTS

LIFE

From Valentine’s Day on a budget to an idiot’s guide to love, we’ve got you covered for tonight

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Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 | News

lariatnews.com

ASHLEY HERN/LARIAT POVERTY: April Cubbage leads faculty and students in discussion at the One Book, One College event at TED Talk Tuesday, Feb. 6.

Annual college book program meets TED

ASHLEY HERN EDITOR

Saddleback College hosted its first One Book, One College event of the year at the Associated Student Government’s TED Talk Tuesday on Feb. 6 in the Student Services Center, room 212.

The 2017 through 2018 committee chose Dan-el Padilla Peralta’s “Undocumented: A Dominican Boy’s Odyssey from a Homeless Shelter to the Ivy League” as their spring 2018 selection.

“Undocumented” follows Peralta’s biographical account of growing up as an undocumented and homeless immigrant child in New York City.

Peralta establishes a personal connection with Jeff, a homeless shelter volunteer. Peralta explains in “Undocumented” how being homeless and undocumented contributed to his experience at Collegiate and Princeton University.

Saddleback sociology professor April Cubbage’s panel discussion included a presentation of statistics of homelessness in the United States, two TED Talk videos and a discussion of the connections between “Undocumented” and the TED Talks. The TED Talks that were presented were Martha Stone’s “You’re Homeless...Now What?” and Kristi Blakeway’s “Beyond HELLO: Changing the Perception of Homelessness.”

“The related issues that I want people to think about when watching the TED Talks is that poverty, addiction, abuse, mental illness and lack of resources are only some of the issues that coexist when we talk about the homeless population,” Cubbage said. “Just like in ‘Documented,’ they do not encompass every single person’s story.”

In her TED Talk, Martha Stone shared her experience as an executive director at a private homeless shelter, Cross Roads House, in New Hamp-

shire. Stone presented stories of a talented chef, a family of five and a veteran that received help from Cross Roads House.

“The TED Talks were really insightful about homelessness,” said Emily Sim, a student majoring in English. “I was surprised when the statistics were shown because I was not aware that around 40 percent of homeless people are actually employed.”

Kristi Blakeway, a school principal in British Columbia, showed how her social project Beyond HELLO began and has helped more than 600 homeless people relocate their family or friends.

HELLO stands for “Helping Everyone Locate Loved Ones,” in order to help homeless individuals to develop personal connections and establish a sense of community.

“One Book, One College is also doing Book To Action, which adds an action that individuals could potentially do

along with reading the book and engage with the community,” said Jane Horlings, a biology instructor at Saddleback College and part of the One Book, One College workgroup.

Book To Action is a California State Library program and community service project that collects children’s books.

One Book, One College will be collecting books from three drop-off locations on campus at the library, Faculty Center for Student Success and the Administration and Governance Building. The books collected from Book To Action will be donated to the students at the Title I school Kinoshita Elementary School in San Juan Capistrano.

The deadline for book donations is Feb. 23.

One Book, One College has planned eight future events for the duration of the semester which involve TED Talk Tuesdays, round table discussions, an author visit and Book To Action.

News | vol. 50, no. 6

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Bandit caricature covered in the SSC Faculty, students reign victory as Academic Senate aims to completely eliminate image of ex-mascot

COVER The gaucho (below), which is believed to be the last large image of the former mascot on campus, was removed from the left portion of the sidewall shown above.

AUSTIN WEATHERMAN CONTRIBUTOR

Saddleback College said goodbye to its long-time gaucho caricature in the Student Services Building after being painted over Jan. 4 by the request from the Academic Senate Equity and Diversity committee.

A new committee has been arranged by Saddleback President Gregory Anderson, headed

by Interim Director of Marketing and Communications Julie Lanthier Bandy, to redesign the mascot logo and is set to meet early February.

Students have been protesting the caricature for 10 years now, saying that it misrepresents the Latino culture.

The drawing depicts a mustached-hispanic cowboy riding a horse, meant to resemble an Argentine gaucho.

The Associated Student Government and Consultation Council created the first resolution on Nov. 5, 2014, but nothing happened.

Co-chair Carmenmara Hernandez Bravo said that the committee created a new resolution to the removal of the image three years ago, but nothing had got done.

“The students have been pushing for the removal for 10 years now and we voted three years ago to remove the image but it was still here.” she said.

AUSTIN WEATHERMAN

“I decided to do something and that’s why it’s painted over now.”

Gregory Anderson

Saddleback College President

“It’s a terrible stereotype and has no room here at Saddleback.”

Hernandez Bravo has been with Saddleback College for 25 years, leading the Equity and Diversity committee for 20 of those years.

She is very intense about the removal of the image saying that if she sees another gaucho improperly representing the Latino community, she is going to continue her pursuit to remove the negative imagery.

The committee emailed President Anderson Dec. 16 saying: “Though the Associated Student Government and the Academic Senate have both passed numerous resolutions for many years calling for the gaucho image to be removed from the

entire college, it still appears around the campus (e.g. in the Student Services Building) and even in the College Communications and Graphics’ manual (on page 8).”

“For a number of years, there was pressure to remove the graphic year after year, and nothing had gotten done,” President Anderson said. “I decided to do something and that’s why it’s painted over now.”

Anderson had first noticed the caricature upon his arrival at Saddleback in October, describing the image as a “relic.”

He said he had a personal reaction to the “gaucho,” but his focus is more on how the school responds to the imagery.

“My reaction isn’t nearly as important as the work that had gone into discussing the impact

of that caricature and understanding as a college that this isn’t the way this college wishes to present itself to students and the community,” Anderson said.

Painting over the giant logo in the Student Services Building cost little to zero according to Anderson. They budgeted the job to fit into regular working hours, having staff use excess paint and new brushes to get the job done while faculty and students were on winter break.

Co-chair Ray Zimmerman was very excited to see the quick action by Anderson.

“President Anderson amazingly was able to get something done particularly overnight,” Zimmerman said. “I guess we just needed the correct leadership.”

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Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 | Culture

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Culinary arts inspires recipes for lovers ANDREA CLEMETT OPINION EDITOR

Walking into Saddleback College’s culinary arts department is like sitting in the audience of Top Chef. The atmosphere is lively with energy while aromas from the simmering curry sauces are intoxicating.

In less than two years an aspiring chef can earn a certificate in culinary arts. Students have an array of goals in the field such as chef, personal chef, catering entrepreneur, baker and restaurant owner. Some students have internships in hotel restaurants as line cooks in order put their skills in action.

The advanced culinary class is comprised of students of all ages and ethnicities who are sharpening their knife skills. Chefs practice production cooking, plating and the infrastructure of the kitchen, furthering their expertise in the major cuts from veal to halibut.

The enthusiasm from the chefs display an abundance of camaraderie as they work and learn from one another. The course prepares students in all facets of the restaurant, from ordering, to serving and cooking on the line.

“The Saddleback College has a diverse list of courses that teaches you fundamentals while working in a fast-paced environment,” said Mychal Curington, a 28-year-old culinary student. “Taking full advantage of the knowledge I have been afforded has allowed me to transition into the industry having high, but realistic expectations.”

For Valentine’s Day, the chefs suggested shying away from the cliched entrees like oysters that could easily go wrong with a single bad one. Instead, they recommended using spices and herbs as a romantic aphrodisiacs.

The head of the department, Lisa Inlow, indicated chef coats are available to all students even those not entering the culinary vocational field. Take the heat and stay in the kitchen.

The Culinary II course shared the following Valentine’s Day inspired recipes.

ANDREA CLEMETT/LARIAT

DELISH: Students prepare Chicken Curry, served on a bed of rice, as a suggested entre for those who want to save the expense of going out for a romantic dinner—make it themselves.

Griddled Scallops with Sweet Chili Sauce and Cream Sauce Makes 20 Ingredients 10 sea scallops salt and pepper to taste 4 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce 1 recipe croutes 6 tablespoons creme fraiche 20 cilantro leaves to garnish Directions Cut each scallop in half. Preheat grill pan over high heat. Sear scallops, 1 minute per side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and toss with chili sauce.

Place 1 scallop half on to each croute.

Top with 1 tsp creme fraiche.

Garnish with cilantro leaves.

Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Sear and sauce scallops up to one day in advance. Cover and refrigerate.

Top croutes up to 1 hour in advance.

Curry Chicken Serves 8 Ingredients 8-ounce onion (small diced) 2 teaspoons garlic (crushed) 1 ounce clarified butter (or ghee)

Masala (wet) 2 ounces ginger, fresh 1 ½ teaspoons turmeric, ground 1 ½ teaspoons coriander, whole 1 teaspoon cumin, ground 1 teaspoon pepper, cayenne ½ teaspoon fenugreek, ground 20 ounces coconut milk 1 ea chicken, whole 2 ½ -3 ½ pounds (cut into 8 pieces) 1 teaspoon salt 3 each pepper, green chile (split lengthwise) 1 ounce lemon juice (fresh) Directions Stir-fry the onions and garlic in the ghee or butter until the onions are golden brown.

To make the wet masala, mix the ginger, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper and fenugreek; add just enough of the coconut milk to form a paste.

Add the wet masala to the onions and stir-fry for 8 minutes. Add the chicken pieces and cook, turning frequently, for 6 to 8 minutes.

Add the remaining coconut milk, salt and chiles. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 45 minutes.

Just before serving, stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasonings to taste. Serve with saffron rice and a chutney.

Culture | vol. 50, no. 6

@lariatnews Cherry Almond Fluorines Serving Size ½ Use a Sheet Pan Ingredients 1 pound, 8-ounce sweet dough 6 ounces sugar (make sure it’s granulated) 2 ounces glucose 3 ounces water 5 ounces butter (cubed) 2.5 ounces honey 3 ounces cream, heavy (brought to boiling) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 11 ounces almonds, sliced (toasted prior and let cool before use) 2 ounces cherries-(dried) Chocolate added as desired Directions Line a half-size sheet pan with parchment paper. Roll the chilled sweet dough 1⁄8 inch (3 millimeters) thick and slightly larger than the half-size sheet pan.

Line the bottom and sides of the sheet pan with the dough. Prick the dough with a fork.

Bake blind at 375°F until blond in color, approximately 8 to 11 minutes.

Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Boil the sugar, glucose and water to a golden caramel, approximately 325°F (160°C). Add the butter and honey to the caramel, then add the boiling cream.

Bring the mixture to a full boil. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract, almonds and cherries. While still warm, spread the mixture onto the prebaked crust in a thin, even layer.

Bake at 375°F for approximately 20 minutes or until the center has set and is golden brown. Cool completely, trim the edges then cut into 2-inch-squares.

Dip one corner of each piece in tempered semisweet chocolate.

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Staff picks 9 best romantic films “Princess Bride” A Rob Reiner classic from the ’80s canon, “Princess Bride” remains a favorite of many as it truly features everything: “fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles.” “Inconceivable!” you say? Perhaps you would like to see for yourself? “As you wish.” Make an evening of it and “have fun storming the castle!”

Holly Broxterman “Love Actually” Richard Curtis brings us the “It’s a Wonderful Life” equivalent of romantic comedies in “Love Actually.” Beginning as a poignant look at how love has uniquely inconvenienced the lives of several characters, the tale transforms into a pensive look at how love also connected them and changed their lives for the better.

Holly Broxterman “Enchanted” “Enchanted” is a diversion from the infamous Disney princess movie formula which lovingly pokes fun at the tropes we’ve grown to see. Amy Adams is warm and charming as a Disney princess trapped in the real world in search of real love. Fuzzy feelings and laughs abound. Marissa Yocham “Beauty and the Beast” “Beauty and the Beast” is the best of the Disney Renaissance, hands down. From the stunning hand-drawn animation to the sweeping music and memorable characters, this movie is a masterpiece. It may be a “tale as old as time,” but it never gets old. Marissa Yocham “Moulin Rouge” The movie musical “Moulin Rouge” is a favorite among many with its creative film style, music, and memorable story. It may feel like an acid trip at times but you can’t help but find yourself caught up in the emotion and heart of the movie. Marissa Yocham “Zack & Miri Make a Porno” Hilarity ensues in “Zack and Miri Make a Porno” when two lifelong friends in dire financial straits

conspire to pull themselves out of debt by producing a porno to sell to classmates of their graduating high school class. Writer/director Kevin Smith delivers his usual brand of satirical humor and inappropriateness. If the title offends you, so will the film. Holly Broxterman “Titanic” How could we not put “Titanic” on the best romantic movie list? First, let us take a moment and bless James Cameron for directing this film. Second, let us thank Leonardo DiCaprio’s parents for birthing such a beautiful specimen. During this movie, Leonardo was at his prime and everyone envied the lovely Kate Winslet who played Rose. We shall never forget the romance between Jack and Rose. My heart will go on. Lizzie Williams “The Empire Strikes Back” A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away existed the timeless

space romance of Han and Leia in “The Empire Strikes Back.”

They name-called, “laser brains” and bickered like grandparents.

Leia even attempted to make Han jealous by kissing her own brother; that’s commitment. It is a heart-wrenching ending when the princess professes her love, as she witnesses her man being frozen in carbonite. Andrea Clemett “500 Days of Summer” In “500 Days of Summer,” Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel portray a nonlinear account of a failed relationship’s 500 days of existence. Summer and Tom’s relationship shows that reality and expectations in a romantic connection can broadly differ.

Tom’s unrealistic expectations of Summer show that you cannot change a person into loving you, while Tom truly needed to love himself first, before being able to love someone else. Ashley Hern

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Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 | Culture

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Surprise your Valentine with a DIY succulent planter A tutorial on how to create and care for a succulent planter ASHLEY HERN EDITOR

After holiday shopping, buying books and supplies for a new school semester, finding the perfect yet affordable Valentine’s day gift for a friend or partner can prove to be difficult. Opting to build a DIY succulent flower pot as a present can create a heartfelt and thoughtful offering without breaking your wallet or budget.

A poll conducted by Harris Poll concluded in the 2016 National Gardening Survey that in 2016 six million new Americans took up gardening. These statistics come to no surprise when exploring through plant related hashtags on Instagram. The hashtag #plantlovers has approximately 102,000 tagged posts; whereas, #plantstagram contains around 401,000 posts. These posts include a vast array of species classification, horticulture based care tutorials and fashion style pictures of different flowers.

“If I received a plant for Valentine’s day, my reaction would depend on the plants attractiveness,” said Marissa Smestad, 24, undeclared. “However, I would prefer to be gifted a potted plant than a bouquet of flowers because it would last longer than a couple of days.”

The items needed to create a DIY succulent planter can be found at any local garden nursery for less than $20 based on the type of planter, succulent species and potting soil that is used. In order to create two gifts, I chose to use two six inch clay planter pots, two 6.4 inch clay pot saucers, Gardner and Bloome’s organic

ASHLEY HERN/LARIAT

SUPPLIES: To create a DIY succulent, you need planter pots, organic potting soil and your choice of succulents.

potting soil, a Pearl Echeveria succulent and a Moon cactus.

The planter with the teal hued Pearl Echeveria succulent cost approximately $13 to make.

Whereas, the Moon cactus with an orange hued flower was a more expensive plant species option, resulting in the planter with it costing around $18.

California native flora species can be chosen as a more affordable option as well. Some local nurseries also have the option of checking in on Yelp and receiving a specific free type of flora. The San Juan Capistra-

no and San Clemente farmers markets also have vendors with selections of flowers and plants.

Before potting your selected succulent of choice, one can decorate the flowerpot with the use of colorful acrylic paint or paint markers in order to add a more creative approach. When selecting a pot, chose a planter pot that is larger than the plant being used in order to stimulate positive, comfortable growth.

“The pot chosen needs to have a drainage hole so that the extra water can run out,” said Quinn Bork, owner of Shore Gar-

dens nursery in San Clemente. “If the pot has no hole it will usually cause problems down the line, because if it stays wet too long the succulent with rot.”

After selecting the perfect potting material, it is time to move the succulent into the flowerpot. Keep in mind that the plant should not be placed at the bottom of the pot or have too much soil underneath it when applying soil. The plant’s roots should be protected from damage when being moved in order to preserve optimal health.

“For watering, they just like to dry out between each time that you water,” said Bork. “They should get just enough water to run through the soil. The big thing to remember is that succulents need a lot of light, so in the house is usually not a good idea unless it is super bright or placed close to a window.”

After successfully transferring the plant onto the planting material, the project is essentially complete. The next step could include purchasing or making a handwritten card to go with your newly established plant child.

Opinion | vol. 50, no. 6

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Take the ‘Gal’ out of Valentine’s Day

An exploration of how “Parks & Recreation” Galentine’s Day leaves out men, non-binary and transgender folks ASHLEY HERN A & E EDITOR

The beginnings of Galentine’s Day can be traced back to 2010 in Greg Daniels and Michael Schur’s second and sixth season of “Parks and Recreation.” Protagonist Leslie Knope introduces the holiday’s main focus, which is celebrating female friendships and relationships on the day before Valentine’s Day. After the television series aired, the concept of Galentine’s Day has gained a large following and become an established holiday trend.

Publications like Bustle, The Atlantic and Buzzfeed have covered Galentine’s Day as a holiday multiple times. On Instagram, the hashtag #galentinesday has approximately 230,000 tagged posts that vary between Galentine’s Day gifts, Galentine’s Day inspiration posts and actual women celebrating the fictional celebration.

Although celebrating women’s friendships and relationships is a positive activity, the problem with this fictitious holiday becoming an established holiday and trend is that it excludes individuals on the basis of gender. Female connections are important, but are they more important than men’s connections? Where do people who identify as non-binary and transgender find themselves in the spectrum of this idea?

The Statistic Brain Research Institute conducted research of Valentine’s Day based on online and direct response mail in Sept.

2017. The research found that 73 percent of all flowers bought

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Lariat

“Saddleback’s student-run newspaper since 1968” Editor-in-Chief Marissa Yocham Managing Editor Holly Broxterman Editors Ashley Hern Andrea Clemett Nael Elsewehy Lizzie Williams Faculty Advisers Tim Posada MaryAnne Shults Instructional Assistant Ali Dorri Contact Us

phone 949-582-4688 email lariateditor@gmail.com web www.lariatnews.com address 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92692

For The Record

NBC

GAL PALS: Leslie (Amy Poehler) gives toasts on “Parks and Recreation” to her female friends as they celebrate Valentine’s Day. were purchased by men. It also discovered that 85 percent of Valentine’s Day cards were paid for by women.

From the research the Statistic Brain Research Institute acquired, it can be assumed that both women and men play an integral part of Valentine’s Day. Thus, women and men should both be able to participate equally in celebrations of friendship like Galentine’s Day. Men’s relationships with other men and with members of other genders are equally as important and integral in a celebration of friendship and love.

GLAAD, a LGBTQ acceptance media monitoring organization in the United States explains in its Valentine’s Day media resource kit that LGBT couples and individuals often find themselves excluded from media coverage and representation on Valentine’s Day. Following a gender-based

holiday like Galentine’s Day further excludes individuals in the LGBTQ community from being able to participate.

I understand the gist of Galentine’s Day as a movement of inclusion for women as a time for them to reflect on their friendships with other great and strong women. It is admirable that women are using a show like Parks and Recreation to create a feminist holiday that represents the multi-dimensionalities of women.

However, the hypocrisy of Galentine’s Day as an inclusionary holiday is that it excludes other people that do not fall within its constraints of gender, proving to not be intersectional whatsoever. Perhaps changing Galentine’s Day into another National Friendship Day would remove the negative and exclusionary connotations that it presently contains.

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Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 | Feature

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How to V-Day without going broke Travel getaways for under $200 ANDREA CLEMETT OPINION EDITOR

Bridging the anxiety of midterms or celebrating Valentine’s Day, budget getaways exploring the desert, beach, and city can be done for under $200. Time to scrounge coins from the pockets of those favorite jeans laying bedside, t h e car's cup holders and head to Coinstar in CVS to change pen-nies into dollars.

Driving two and half hours northeast from Orange County, travelers can retreat to Joshua Tree National Park. The park is interfaced between two eco-systems, the Mojave and the Colorado. The distinctive Joshua Trees bordering the community appear to have numerous twisted branches and small spiky palms, which could resemble a land out of a Tim Burton movie.

The national parks day-use pass is free for backcountry hiking ranging from short walks and natural trails to moderate and challenging hikes. 'Skull Rock,’ as seen on Instagram stories, worldwide is short. A 1.7 mile hike exploring natural border piles that resemble a skull bearing large hollowed-out eye sockets.

Beyond hiking, the 1,235 square miles of park offers four camping areas, from the open scenery of the trees in Black Rock to the secluded area of Indian Cove where cell phone reception and water are limited. Holding 386 campsites, extended stays may be a must when priced for $15-20 per night.

Adventure welcomes all-abilities to the world-class destination for climbing. Offering 2,000 boulder problems and 8,000 climbing routes. The desert is acclaimed for the vertical cracked slabs of rocky terrain. Daily guides or classes are available with certified individu-

ANDREA CLEMETT/LARIAT

TWENTYNINE PALMS: Hikers trek 3 miles to the Fortynine Palm Oasis. als who have the highest level of rock guiding.

Early spring is ideal, revealing the picturesque desert blooming of wildflowers with mild temperatures for hiking and climbing. For guides, parking, and a supply list, refer to the park's website at National Park Service.

To achieve the essence of community, Airbnb hosts numerous refurbished Airstreams from the 1970s. Most can accommodate two, equipped with gas grills and half bathrooms starting at $69 per night. These desert hideaways have backdoor wildlife: roadrunners, jack rabbits, and coyotes.

Hide your snacks.

Heading into the town sightseers can indulge in fresh, soulful-style pizza at Pie for the People. It’s known for New York size

slices and creative customized pies. “The Wookie" is decorated in pineapple, pepperoni, jalapeños, and finished with gorgonzola. Speciality large pizzas for $25 can feed three with leftovers for breakfast.

A few miles west, adventurers can head to Pioneertown, stopping at the rustic decor of Pappys and Harriets. Patrons enjoy free live music sets while sipping on spirits out of mason jars. The spot is recognized for their Tex-Mex fare and guest performances by artists such as Paul McCartney.

Instead of gazing at yucca trees, excursionists may head northwest to Los Angeles to eat fried yucca at Cafe Brasil. It's a vibrant cafe that serves small plates of Brazilian cuisine such as empanadas, plantains, and collard

greens; starting at $2 for appetizers.

From the cafe heading west on Washington Boulevard leads into Venice Beach. The Venice canals deliver a quaint atmosphere for quiets strolls near the water, concealed between the chic shops of Abbot Kinney and the character of the Boardwalk.

Sitting within a five-minute radius within the three boroughs, Airbnb offers “tiny houses,” starting at $140 per night for two.

The spaces can range in the 400-square-feet size and evoke a cottage-like feeling of rest and relaxation. Unlike hotels, these charming studios have kitchens to provide one’s own food or cooking. Hang up the car keys and bring bicycles to hop on and get around the town.

With the spin of a compass, "staycationers" head an hour south to San Diego for a day trip to Mission Bay. It is the largest man-made saltwater lagoon in the country occupying 54 percent of the Mission Bay Park. Scenery of vanilla cream sandy beaches, miles of paths for running or skateboarders and boats water abound.

The calm surf conditions permit Duffy boat ventures. These boats are electric, silent, luxurious cruisers that suit all ages. Duffys can be comparable to the Telsa of the marine industry, first designed in 1968.

Groupon advertises 90-minute cruises with cheese, wine, and crackers for 2 to 6 persons for $45 each. Aboard these rentals patrons may encounter wildlife such as sea lions, seals or dolphins. Each Duffy has a trained escort crew while the group can enjoy scenery and music.

Southern California offers an array of new experiences in neighboring cities that weekenders can celebrate, explore, and relax. With planned research, these exciting trips do not have to break the bank.

Life | vol. 50, no. 6 9

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An Idiot’s Guide to Valentine’s Day Practical suggestions for V-Day regardless of your relationship status HOLLY BROXTERMAN MANAGING EDITOR

Valentine’s Day can invoke a sense of dread or excitement, depending on whether you find yourself coupled up come the holiday. Regardless of your status or orientation, peruse the following ideas to ensure you have a night to remember.

For the unnattached, the best way to enjoy being single on Valentine’s Day is to find things that are especially satisfying to do alone, or just more fun to do alongside platonic companions than a date.

Are you looking for a conventional dinner with friends, or a rowdy place to boycott the

holiday? Happy hour may not be happening on this popular holiday, but a casual lounge or bar might offer the setting you seek.

There’s also no rule that says you have to go out. Nothing says camaraderie like coming together with your posse at home and gouging on heart-shaped chocolates and good wine.

It’s becoming increasingly popular to see “Galentine’s” movies debuted around Valentine’s Day, but some of your favorites might already be streaming from home via Netflix or Hulu, so double-check before dropping your hard-earned cash at the cinema.

Some couples, on the other hand, are more keen about celebrating anniversaries than

Valentine’s Day, while others thoroughly enjoy the romantic red-themed day. For many, this holiday might also represent one person in the relationship scrambling at the last second to ensure their significant other has a happy holiday.

Reservation availability is typically a scarce commodity on Valentine’s Day. With so many couples dining out on the same night, you might find the wait service to be so slow that you wish you had stayed at home.

Don’t set your evening up to fail.

Enjoy a romantic meal at home together, or consider dining out the day before or after Valentine’s Day. In fact, you may even be able to utilize a homecooked meal as one of your gifts to your

significant other.

Ultimately, you don’t need to drop a fortune at Tiffany & Co. to make Valentine’s Day special. Sentimental or homemade presents are often a more sincere (and cheaper) way to show you care. Mix-tapes are a thing of the past, but a Spotify playlist accomplishes the same without tracking down a cassette deck.

Get creative and get going.

However, if you do treat your significant other to a real Breakfast at Tiffany’s, complete with a signature blue box, you won’t be met with disappointment. Just make sure you don’t use a fancy Tiffany’s box to gift a candy Ring Pop if you intend to see another Valentine’s Day.

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Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 | Sports

lariatnews.com

COURTESY OF SADDLEBACK ATHLETICS

GIVE ME THE PITCH: Student journalist Richard Eldridge interviews Saddleback College’s president Gregory Anderson, dressed in Gaucho colors, at the grand opening of the renovated baseball field on Thursday, Feb. 8. Anderson threw out the ceremonial first pitch of the season.

Fritz Field gets a major-league makeover

Renovations bring the stadium into ADA compliance RICHARD ELDRIDGE AUSTIN WEATHERMAN CONTRIBUTORS

Saddleback College President Gregory Anderson officially opened the recently renovated Fritz Field Thursday, Feb. 8.

Wearing no. 55, Anderson threw out the ceremonial first pitch to Gaucho’s catcher Alex Kent, officially opening the field for the 2018 spring baseball season.

Fritz Field received a new pitching mound, press box and a regraded infield. The field’s

renovation is apart of the campus-wide effort to update athletic facilities. Along with Fritz Field, Saddleback is also getting an updated football and track stadium and gymnasium.

Anderson said the cost of the field’s renovation was within the budget and “not considered a very expensive project considering the high cost of today’s labor.”

He also said this is for the athlete students. It is his responsibility to give “the highest quality learning environment for all students, whether a classroom or a baseball diamond.”

With Saddleback’s 50th anniversary this year, the history of the men’s baseball field is as

old and storied as Saddleback College.

Named after Doug Fritz, the Gaucho’s first men’s baseball coach in 1969, Fritz Field was originally located at a temporary campus where The Shops at Mission Viejo is now located.

The current stadium has gone through numerous renovations dating back to 1997 costing $1 million to bring the stadium up to professional baseball standards.

The last renovation was completed in September of 2005 at a cost of $475,000. The field was in need of repairs and renovations to bring the stadium up to current Americans with Disabilities standards and meet Califor-

nia Community College Athletic Association requirements for college sports curriculum. The current renovation was approved during the 2015-16 fiscal year budget at a cost of $850,000.

The baseball team is responsible for field maintenance. Players chalk the lines, set the bases, groom the infield and maintain the dugouts and equipment.

The Gaucho’s went 26-17 during the 2016 season, falling to Long Beach City College in the first round of the Southern California Playoffs. The team is off to a 7-2 record, scoring 53 runs in the nine games. Saddleback faces off with Glendale Community College in Glendale Thursday, Feb. 15.

Sports | vol. 50, no. 6

@lariatnews

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Student athletes navigate dating Romance is hard when you’re trying to balance school, playing on a team and having a love life. Two singles and two couples tell their story. Lizzie Williams

Collette Halloran, 18, captain, womens soccer “Since it’s spring semester my schedule is less busy but I’m still in five classess and I’m in the offseason soccer class.

I don’t necessarily think that being an athlete makes dating harder.I think it makes things more interesting for sure. Dating as an athlete just means. I may have less free time than the normal student, but I will cherish the time with my significant other or boyfriend.”

Jordan Fitzgerald, 20, baseball Michelle Solt, 18, volleyball “We mainly met because I’m friends with a bunch of her friends and I thought she was beautiful. We have been talking for six months and dating for three months. With being athletes it’s hard to schedule time outside of school but also it’s easier since we both know each

others schedules.We know when the other has a chance to hang out or spend time with each other. Often most of our dates come on days when we don’t have class or late during the week or even on the weekends.

I would say that dating as both athletes is easier than dating as non-athletes because both of us have our own separate passions.

We have our time together, but

also have time with friends, and some alone time because one of us has practice, work, or homework to do. It could be easy to think since we are both busy that it’s a hard relationship but actually this has been the happiest I’ve ever been. When we’re together it just feels right and we seem to truly understand each other, and it makes the relationship stress free.”

Emily Druckrey, 20, soccer Joe Babros, 21, football “We met in the athletic training room and have been dating for one year and three months.We find time by doing things we might do alone together. Like working out, doing our homework, making food. It feels easier because we both are able to understand each other’s priorities and support each other’s goals on a personal level.”

Luigi Gonzalez, 21, alum of Saddleback track and field “I’m currently single. If I were to make it work I would have a mutual understanding between me and the other person. I would try my best to work around my schedule. I think it is harder to date while being an athlete because most of your day is spent in school and on the field. As long as you and your partner can communicate well then it shouldn’t be a problem.”

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Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018 | Calendar

calendar

lariatnews.com

Your guide to what’s up over the next 3 weeks

FEB. 14 ■ Men’s Golf @ Tukwet Canyon GC, 11 a.m.

■ Softball @ Saddleback College, 3 p.m.

■ Lunar New Year Celebration, 5:30 p.m. in BGS 326; reception begins at 6 p.m. in BGS 325 FEB. 15 ■ Groovin’ on the Grass, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., at the Quad, featuring Rocky Salazar and Marine Lair ■ Deadline for WALL Literary Journal submissions ■ Men’s Basketball @ Copper Mountain College, 7 p.m.

■ Women’s Basketball @ Fullerton College, 7 p.m.

■ Men’s Baseball @Glendale College, 3 p.m.

■ Men’s Basketball @ Copper Mountain College, 7 p.m.

FEB. 16 ■ Day 1, Softball @ Wheatfield Park Field No. 2 in Menifee, MSJC President’s Day Tournament, 12 p.m.

■ Men’s Baseball @ Saddleback College, 2 p.m.

FEB. 17 ■ Day 2, Softball @ Wheatfield Park Field No. 1, 12 p.m.

■ Softball @ Wheatfield Park Field No. 1, 2:30 p.m.

FEB. 20 ■ Men’s Baseball @ San Diego Mesa College, 2 p.m.

FEB. 21 ■ Softball @ Saddleback College, 3 p.m.

LIZZIE WILLAMS / LARIAT

BATTER UP: Spencer Heinsius (3B) up to bat against Santa Barbara City College on February 1 at home.

The final score was 5-1.

■ One Book, One College discussion @ HS 145, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

FEB. 22 ■ Men’s Baseball @ Southwestern College, 2 p.m.

FEB. 23 ■ Men’s Track and Field @ Golden West, 1 p.m.

■ Softball @ Riverside Community College, 2 p.m.

■ Questival Orange County @ Orange County Great Park in Irvine, 5 p.m.

FEB. 24 ■ Men’s Baseball @ Compton College, 1 p.m.

■ Trumpeter Ingrid Jensen performs with the Saddleback College Big Band @ McKinney Theatre, 7 p.m.

FEB. 25 ■ Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant Week 2.0 begins @ City of Long Beach, 4:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.

FEB. 26 ■ Men’s Golf @ Victoria GC, 11 a.m.

■ Softball @ Palomar, 2:30 p.m.

FEB. 27 ■ Men’s Baseball @ Chaffey College, 2 p.m.

FEB. 28 ■ Softball @ Fullerton College, 3 p.m.

MARCH 2 ■ Speech & Debate Showcase Fundraiser @ McKinney Theatre, 5 p.m.

■ Softball @ Orange Coast College, 2 p.m.

MARCH 4 ■ OC Restaurant Week @ all throughout Orange County, 4:30 p.m.

MARCH 5 ■ Jazz Lab @ McKinney Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

MARCH 6 ■ One Book, One College TED Talk @ SSC 212, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

■ Men’s Baseball @ Irvine Valley College, 2 p.m.

MARCH 7 ■ Men’s Golf @ Candlewood Community College, 8 a.m.

■ Softball @ Cypress, 3 p.m.