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Palomar College, San Marcos, Calif.

www. the-telescope.com

Vol. 59, No. 16

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An initiative that would roll back community college tuition to $20 per unit and limit future hikes may be on the Nov. 7 ballot.

The initiative, which is being pushed by community college advocates throughout the state, would roll back tuition, change how California's 72 community college districts are funded and restructure the top 13 positions at the Chancellor's office.

The initiative comes after years of friction between the state government and the community college system.

"We need long-term solutions to the problems facing our colleges," said Scott Lay, the initiative's co-sponsor. "After years of attempts to fix these problems we finally understood that we needed to go to the voters."

Stabilizing student fees

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE TOMBRINCK I Tl! E TEUSCOPE

In recent years community college budgets have become increasingly unstable, resulting in budget shortfalls and skyrocketing student fees. The governor 's office and the legislature have addressed the problem in a number of ways- none of which

Students and faculty make their way across a rain-soaked campus as the first heavy storm of the semester drenched Palomar Feb. 27.

Palomar's diverse plantlife (above) soaked up the moisture after months of below-average precipitation.

• SEE

INITIATIVE, PAGE 3

Holiday, flu season hamper blood drive turnout

By Stephanie Tombrinck THE ULFSCOP£

Vandalism, vacations and the flu season haunted the first blood drive of the semester on Feb. 21, 22 and 23.

The American Red Cross spent three days at the San Marcos campus collecting units of blood for the San Diego Blood Bank. The Red Cross set up the blood mobile in Lot 11.

This semester there was an estimated 63 donors compared to 100 last semester. Jenny Bivins, the charge nurse for the Red Cross said the flu season may have contributed to the drop in donors, as well as the drive being held after Presidents Day. On the second day of the blood drive the Red Cross had to use a smaller blood mobile because the large bus had been vandalized. The Red Cross is located in an area populated by gangs in Escondido, said Bivins. The night of Feb. 21 the windows to the blood mobile were smashed in.

Bivins said it was the first major act of vandalism the Red Cross had encountered in the neighborhood .

Bivins added that because they had to use a smaller bus they could not take as many walk-in donors .

Palomar student Jessica Hernandez waited two hours on Feb. 22 because she did not have an appointment.

Bivins said Hernandez was one of many forced to wait because of the smaller facilities. Hernandez, a first time donor, had to return on Feb. 23 because she did not pass an iron test, which is required for all donors.

Walk-ins donors are often unprepared because they may not have planned to donate that day, Bivins said. She added that may people see the blood mobile and decided to donate at the last minute.

"If they eat right and have a good experience (donating), the more likely they are to come back," Bivins said.

The Red Cross receives more walk-ins than appointment mostly because students see the bus and want to donate , Bivins said.

"This blood drive was the slowest one since I have been here" said Health Services nurse Pam Webb, who coordinator the blood drive. Webb, who has been ~t Palomar for about 16 years, said

STEPHANIE TOMBRINCK I THE TELESCOPE

Student Jessica Hernandez gives blood during the first blood drive of the semester on Feb. 23.

Hernandez failed the blood iron content test on Feb. 22 and had to return the following day.

Palomar is known for a high number of walk-ins and the college is very supportive of the blood drive.

Palomar only holds two blood drives per semester because a certain amount of time must be allotted in-between

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donations, Webb said. The next blood drive will be held May 2, 3 and 4 on the San Marcos campus.

Webb said she hoped the May blood drive will go more smoothly and will exceed this semesters donations.

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HOMELAND INSECURITY De•lto sell ports is ins•ne.

• PAGE 4

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• PAGE 6

2

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

campus CALENDAR

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• Free film series

• Governing Board meeting

"Palindromes" 6:30 p.m. in Room P-32.

5 p.m. in the Governing Board Room.

• Campus Explorations "Ethics and the Power of Rhetoric" Lecture and panel discussion from 2- 3 p.m. in Room ES-19.

1'1'!1

• Associated Student Government meeting

3/a

1 p.m. in Room SU-18.

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3115

• Women's History Day celebration In front of the Student Center.

• Career "how to" lecture

• Free STD testing

Patrick Dockery will speak about the hair care business.

11 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in the Governing Board Room.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Health Services. Call for appointment at ext. 2380.

• Study Abroad Spain Informational meeting for interested students. 10 a.m. in Room F-1 0.

JERRY HOLLIE I 'Iff

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the GJ Building.

1'1'!1 3115

• Graphic Communications Career Day

What belongs here?

Tell us. telescope@palolllar.edu or call (760) 744-1150, 1'11.1450

TELESCOP~

Student Art Rudman uses a disc sander during his CFT 180 Wood Bending and Lamination class Feb. 10. Palomar offers an extensive cabinet and furniture technology program.

Student gov't hosts Ghana dignitaries B John Asbury

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TELESCOPE

Palomar College recently became a worldwide destination as college officials and student representatives hosted an assembly of dignitaries from the African nation of Ghana Feb. 23.

Guests were given a tour of the San Marcos campu s, including t rips t hrough the Planetarium and t he Radio & Television Department. The five dignitaries also sat in on archeology classrooms to observe American teaching styles and the community college system .

Each person from the group is a Rotary member from several different schools in Ghana. Their trip was sponsored by the San Marcos Rotary club as part of a global Rotary exchange to the United States and throughout Southern California.

Palomar College governing board member Darrell McMullen, a San Marcos Rotary member, led part of the tour. McMullen said the dignitaries had a particular interest in community colleges because the system is not available in their country.

"International students and students in America can better understand the system and this will add to the overall goodwill," McMullen said. "This will offer a broad study in areas that they don't have."

The African visitors interacted with Associated Student Government members during a luncheon in the Faculty Lounge. ASG senators told the dignitaries about student life at Palomar while learning about education and youth lifestyles in Ghana.

ASG members said the insight into Ghana culture gave perspective to life at Palomar. Dignitaries told senators about the scarcity of cars for students and the growing popularity of cell phones.

Beginning in high school, most students go to boarding schools and live away from home.

"It really opened my eyes to how fortunate students in America are," said ASG Vice President Curtis Van Engel.

JOHN ASBURY I TilE TELESCOPE

ASG Vice President Curtis Van Engel (left) compares life at Palomar to life in the African nation of Ghana with Beatrice Larbi, a business professor from Ghana. Dignitaries are touring California community colleges to learn how to develop a community college system at home.

"In America it's a lot easier to go to college than in other parts of the world.

Hopefully they can take some information back so more people can go to college than they do now."

Ghana business professor Beatrice Larbi said this trip allows to better educate people about her country and international affairs.

"I wish everyone had the experience to see the will of the people . Some of the things you think are true are actually quite different," Larbi said. "Not all countries are having turbulent times. Ghana is quite stable and it's bet ter when you know people understand."

Formerly known as the Gold Coast, Ghana is a sub-Saharan country about the size of Oregon, located on the western coast of Africa and has a population of 10 million people. The country has five national universities and six to 10 private universities.

While observing community colleges, Larbi said a lot of work still has to be done to bridge gaps in education. She said she noticed significant differences in student resources through technology and libraries that aid learning.

"Excellence is beautiful in whatever you're doing and doing well is beautiful ," Larbi said. "Her e, r eality is brought to life and the best education is

what's closest to you."

Larbi added that staying with American host families this has given her and her colleagues a better understanding of American culture.

Ralph Mills-Tettey, an architect and former professor at the University of Ife in Nigeria, said Ghana Rotarians are looking to their national government to provide a foundation similar to Palomar and other community colleges for higher education.

"Palomar has a lot to offer and it gives a greater reach than what you'd find in Ghana," Mills-Tettey said .

"College has to be the training ground for many of life's skills."

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

3

• INITIATIVE: New law would limit fee increases and forbid mid-semester hikes CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

helped, said community college supporters.

When the state raised fees from $18 to $26 per unit, officials said they hoped it would bring more federal money into the system because students could qualifY for PELL Grants. However, a 136-percent tuition increase since 2003 resulted in the loss of about 314,000 students, according to a recent fee impact study conducted by the chancellor's office.

If passed, the initiative would roll back fees to $20 and limit increases to no more than 10 percent per year.

It would also prevent the state from increasing fees mid-semester, which it did in 2004.

"This should make students very happy," said governing board member Nancy Chadwick. "Not only because it lowers fees, but it limits how much they can be raised and when- it will provide a measure of stability for students who are worried about more hikes."

College president Robert Deegan agreed with Chadwick. He said students would benefit immediately.

"It would be a savings of nearly $20 per class," Deegan said. "Most of our students have a lot on their plates and this is just the kind of break they need."

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If passed, the initiative will: roll back fees to $20 per unit - cap fee hikes to no more than 10 percent per year - forbid mid-semester hikes

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- separate funds for community colleges from K-12 out of Prop 98 funds - guarantee community colleges their share of Prop 98 funds - allows community colleges to grow despite declining K-12 enrollment - allows chancellor to permanently fill top 13 positions at the California Community College Chancellor's Office rather than being filled by Governor's appointees

Community colletes would get fair share Proponents of the initiative said that while fee hikes are a key issue, they are merely a symptom of a larger problem - funding.

Lay said inequities in the state's education funding scheme and gloomy K-12 enrollment projections were the impetus for moving forward with the initiative now.

Funding for California schools is dictated by Proposition 98laws, which lump community colleges in with K-12 schools.

According to a report released by the Californians for Community Colleges, K-12 enrollment is expected to slow or decline during the next 10 years. The California Department of Finance estimates that community college enrollment will grow 2-3 percent per year during the same period. As a result, community colleges will not receive the funds to keep up with growth.

The report states that if Prop. 98 is not amended to separate community college funding from K-12, the state's community colleges will face a $300 million shortfall by 2014-2015.

Also, under Prop. 98, K-12 schools are guaranteed a certain amount of funding, while community colleges have had to fight for their fair share, Lay said. ''We have tried to fix this with legislation initiative many times without success," said Lay, who serves as the vice president of the Community College League of California. ''We have to go to the voters and make our case for a fair, predictable source for our funding."

Chadwick said the changes are long overdue.

"Every year it is a guessing game," Chadwick said.

"We are not asking for anything to be taken away from K-12 - we just want our fair share."

If passed, the initiative would provide further stability by allowing the chancellor to fill the top 13 positions at the California Community College Chancellor's office, by permanently hiring qualified

Community College Initiative

FACT

Since Fall 2003, California community college tuition has increased 136 percent and the community college system has lost 314,000 students.

SOURCE: CALIFORNIANS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGES INFOGRAPHIC BY JESSICA HALSTON I TilE TELESCOPE

applicants. Governor's appointees have historically filled these top positions.

Massive campaign needed Though the process is underway, proponents said they are under the gun to get the proposition on the November ballot.

The initiative was filed with the California Attorney General's office in early February and is under review.

Eugine Hill of the law firm Olson Hagel and Fishburn LLP, represents the Californians for Community Colleges. He said once the proposal goes through a formal 40-day process, it will receive an official title and summary prepared by the California Secretary of State.

After that, Lay said there will be a mad rush to obtain the 598,106 signatures required to place the measure on the ballot. He said there will be about 30 days to collect the signatures.

Lay added that a "paid" signature drive will be required because of the short amount of time proponents have to collect the signatures. The group will have to hire a firm to collect the signatures rather than relying solely on volunteers and grassroots organizing.

However, he said the group would rely on a grassroots campaign to raise funds to pay for the signature drive.

"Community colleges, at their hearts, are grassroots organizations," Lay said. "Especially when it comes to the support of college presidents and governing boards."

Palomar officials show support Proponents have asked Deegan and the other community college presidents throughout the state to donate $1,000 each - which Deegan said he has done.

All five of Palomar's governing board members have spoken out in support of the measure and said they expect to pass a resolution supporting it in the near future.

Board member Ruth Larson said she believed the measure comes at a perfect time for the college. She added that with Palomar seeking support for a $600 to $800 million bond measure, college officials have an opportunity to educate the public about community college issues.

"We need to let people know how important community colleges are and why we need stability," Larson said. "I think if people know about the issues they will get behind us. People value fairness and fiscal responsibility."

Abortion rights group ranks states on access to contraception • Clllilorni11 111kes lop spDI Dn 111nkings list

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-TopS WASHINGTON (KRT) - Abortions are not falling as fast as they might because sex counseling and contraception are hard to get in some states, a leading national abortion rights group said on Tuesday.

As a result, although teen pregnancy and abortion rates have declined sharply, the overall U.S. abortion rate dropped just 1 percent a year in 2001 and 2002, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which prepared the state-by-state analysis of contraception availability.

Guttmacher's president and CEO, Sharon Camp, warned that obstacles to contraception at the state level could derail efforts, dating from the Clinton administration, to cut the rate of unintended pregnancies by 40 percent by 2010.

California came in first in Guttmacher's rankings, which are based on ease of access to contraception, state funding for sex counseling and support from state legislatures. Alaska came in second in the Guttmacher review of 50 states and the District of Columbia;

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South Carolina was third. ''We need to be making contraception easy for women, but in many states we're actually making it harder," said Camp. ''When effective contraceptive use rises, abortion rates go down."

Of 6 million U.S. pregnancies each year, about 3 million are unplanned, according to the group, and half of those end in abortions. According to Guttmacher, the U.S. unintended pregnancy and abortion rates are the highest

among industrialized nations.

The Guttmacher Institute is pushing for more public funding, insurance coverage that includes contraceptives and improved availability of contraceptives and family planning counseling.

Anti-abortion and abortion rights groups sometimes find common ground when they advocate reductions in abortion, and they often agree that making contraceptives available helps to achieve that goal. At least one anti-abortion group balked Tuesday, however, at Guttmacher's linkage between the availability of contraception and unintended pregnancies.

"Handing out birth control and giving out tax dollars to (family planning) programs have not resulted in fewer abortions and fewer unintended pregnancies," said Wendy Wright, president of Concerned Women for America. Rather, she said, promoting contraception encourages sex outside of marriage.

"If you subsidize an activity you get more of it," Wright said. "It's encouraging the behavior that leads to more clients for abortion clinics."

Wright's group wants more parental involvement in sex education and contraception decisions. It opposes allowing minors to get contraceptives without parental consent, which Guttmacher's study used as a standard for good state policy.

4

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

Z Port security shouldn't have price tag 0 u~~~~~~~~~~~-----0-~--~~,-u-~----------------~---------~ 1 land security, President George W. Bush is virtu~y .o ~ / opening the door to potential attacks.

In a proposed deal to transfer con::1 trol of six of our nation's ports to an Arab country, Bush is threatening c U.S. security for economic gain. A $6.8 billion deal by the Treasury I Department would transfer control of 0.... the ports to a government-owned company in the United Arab Emirates. A British shipping company currently operates the ports in New York, New Jersey, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Miami and New Orleans.

This move reaches far beyond xenophobia or Muslim prejudice and is an attempt to sweep a corrupt deal under the radar. There is a distinct difference between a European nation with proven support and a MiddleEastern nation with a reckless diplomacy record.

While Bush has defended the sale as an amicable gesture to a friend and ~y, the administration has neglected to recognize that the same nation was ....-- _ responsible for producing two of the hijackers on 9/11. '"" Former panelists from the Sept. 11 Commission have ......-.condemned the deal, calling it a danger to U.S. security and citing the UAE has been a pathway for terrorists in the past.

Though U.S. Customs officials will continue to monitor security of the ports, what security does exist is minimal and pathetic. If anything, this should fin~y be a wake-up c~ for bureaucrats to examine the ports likelihood of dangerous materials getting in will system as a whole. R certainly doesn't help when a forincrease and pose an even greater eign country of any kind is overseethreat to the American people. ing operations. Especi~y to one of Even though our These reckless moves should be the only countries that sill recogenough for members of both parties in nizes the Taliban in Mghanistan government does not Congress to halt the deal from going eontrol business, while while refusing to recognize Israel. through. Politics aside, this deal just The U.S. cannot turn its back on dHiing with something as doesn't make sense. Even with any its borders, leaving the nation vulfuture investment payoff, the potential nerable for possible destruction by sensitive as this, maybe protection risks and sacrifices aren't outsiders. Outside contractors they should. worth any stock dividends or saving a aren't ~owed to control airports, few extra bucks. why should coastal ports be any different?

What is so frustrating is how obviously wrong this This flys directly against the rationale of fighting the deal is. R seems so clear to everyone but Bush that war abroad rather than fighting the war at home. If moving forward with these plans is bad for the nation's anything, Bush is inviting the war to U.S. soil. As it is, well being. Members of Congress were completely shut Homeland Security agents inspect less than 10 percent out of the decision-making process as the sale was of cargo entering the United States through ports. By being negotiated. Even Bush wasn't notified until the opening ports further to a hostile nation, the risk and deal was finalized. Even though our government does

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not control business, while dealing with something as sensitive as this, maybe they should.

Both Republican and Democratic leaders have come out strong against the proposal, vowing to do everything necessary to block the deal from going through. Some members of Congress even threatened to pass legislation to halt the transfer of power.

With such vehement opposition, it would only make sense for Bush to back down and reevaluate the sale in the interest of national security. Instead he threatened to veto any legislation and only recently bent under public pressure to agree with the Dubai company to add a 45-day review.

This absolute arrogance and disregard should be enough to elicit caution and outrage by any observer.

Congress and the American public can't sit idly by while Bush once again sells security short and continues to ignore obvious preventive measures that should be enforced in the first place.

All hype, little substance with biofuels 8

Edward Lotterman

K T NEWS SERVICE

When discussing economic policies it is important to not let rhetoric overpower reality. That happened in a recent, much-reprinted New York Times article that argued "endless fields of corn in the Midwest can be distilled into endless gallons of ethanol ... that could end any worldwide oil shortage ... and free the United States from dependence on foreign energy."

The story went on to discuss how much energy goes into producing ethanol. But it failed to substantiate its lead assertion of "endless gallons of ethanol" that might "free the United States" from oil imports.

The United States is an agricultural powerhouse, but even common crops like corn are not endless. In 2004, we

e Monday, March 6, 2006

Volume 59, No. 16

FOCUSED ON PALOMAR The Telescope is published weekly on Mondays, except weeks containing holidays or exams . Signed opinions are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily represent those of the entire newspaper staff, Palomar faculty and staff or the Governing Board.

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS THE TELESCOPE, PALOMAR COLLEGE, 1140 WEST MISSION ROAD, SAN MARCOS, CA 92069 NEWSROOM ROOM TCB-1

harvested just under 12 billion bushels of corn, the most in several years. One bushel of corn yields about 2.7 gallons of ethanol. So if we processed all the corn we produce, we would have 32 billion gallons of fuel alcohol.

That sounds like a lot, but we also have a large country with many vehicles. We burn approximately 14 million barrels per day of petroleumbased "motor fuels." That is about 588 million gallons per day or 215 billion gallons per year. It sounds like a lot in absolute terms, but with a population nearing 300 million, it averages less than 2 gallons per person per day.

Processing all corn grown in the U.S. into alcohol would cover about 55 days' worth of driving. That is a significant amount, but it is far from a level that "could end any worldwide oil shortage."

EDITOR IN CHIEF DONNIE BOYLE NEWS EDITOR JESSICA HALSTON PHOTO EDITOR STEPHANIE TOMBRINCK OPINION EDITOR THOMAS MAY FOCUS EDITOR KYLE HAMILTON WIRE EDITOR JOHN ASBURY ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR KATY GOODWIN SPORTS EDITOR MID NULL ASST SPORTS EDITOR JOHN SCAFETTA ONLINE EDITOR KYLE HAMIIJON ASST ONLINE EDITOR IAN CLARK AD MANAGER DOREEN SCHULl INSTRUCTIONAl ASST CHARLES STEINMAN INSTRUCTIONAL ASST TOM CHAMBERS

PHONE (760) 744-1150, EXT. 2450 fAX (760) 744-8123, PLEASE WRITE: "ATTN: THE TELESCOPE" £-MAIL TELESCOPE@PALOMAR.EDU WEB SITE WWW.THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Yes, corn acreage could be expanded. Yes, other crops such as barley and wheat can also be used to produce ethanol. Yes, crop yields will continue to increase with improved technology.

And yes, nongrain crops such as pasture or range grasses could go into ethanol production.

The point is, however, that even with massive increases in alcohol production and substantial increases in vehicle mileage, it is not likely that biofuels will replace fossil fuels for decades, if ever.

While biofuels are less environmentally harmful than petroleum fuels, they are not benign. Even at current acreages, corn production consumes fuel and fertilizer and entails soil erosion. Extending fuel crop production onto marginal land would exacerbate these problems.

STAFF WRITERS KRISTINA BARTON, JOSH CHITICA, KONRAD CHOMIK, JASON DUNN, LINDA ECKERT, SHAHRAZAD ENCINIAS, BRIANNA HALL, CHRYSTALL KANYUCK, JACOB KARP, ANDREA LACUESTA, CHRISTINE LUCAS, ABBEY MASTRACCO, SOPHIA NAVARRO, ROBERT NETH, MARWAN RAZOUK, MANDl REITZ-STEUDLER, JEREMY ROSEFELD, KYLE SALNERS, LESLIE SIMPSON, KRISTINA TORRES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS HUGH COX, ELLIOT DE LISSER, JERRY HOLLIE, JARED LANSFORD, NANCY LARIOS, ANDI SANDOVAL, DOMINICK ULLOA, ANNAKA WICKSTROM

JOURNALISM ADVISER WENDY NELSON JOURNALISM ADVISER ERIN HIRO PHOTOJOURNALISM ADVISER PAUL STACHELEK

As petroleum becomes scarcer and we seek effective ways to limit pollution, biofuels are likely to play an increasingly important role in our economy. If we implement prudent policies, increases in biofuel use can be economically efficient and make our society better off. Such policies would include incentives to reduce energy use and to develop energy saving technology. They would not mandate arbitrary levels of any specific technology including ethanol or diesel fuel derived from soy or other vegetable oils.

But we should not get carried away with our own rhetoric. Grain-derived fuel alcohol is not a panacea for all energy and environmental problems.

Deluding ourselves into thinking that it is will lead us to policies that will harm our society rather than help it.

The Telescope welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters must be typewritten (no more than 350 words), and must be signed with the author's first and last names, major and phone number.

The Telescope reserves the right to edit letters for space and not to print letters containing lewd or libelous comments. Letters must be received

by Monday at 3 p.m. to be considered for publication the next Monday.

EJ::I

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CFAC

ASSOCIATED COllEGIATE PRESS

CAlifORNIA NEWSPAPER PUBliSHERS ASSOCIATION

CAliFORNIA ARST AMEHOMENT COAUJIOH

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JOURNALISM ASSOCIATION or COMMUNITY COLLEGES

THE TELESCOPE â&#x20AC;˘ MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

5

Iraq on the brink of civil war 8

Pierre,

S.D.

South Dakota legislators passed the first state-wide ban on all abortions. The law still needs approval from the state's governor before it goes into effect June 1. If the ban is passed, it would directly conflict with the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Roe v. Wade that protected a woman's right to have a legal abortion. The case would likely go before a state court and possibly the Supreme Court if justices agree to hear it.

New Orleans More than six months after Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, Mardi Gras returned to Bourbon Street in the Big Easy.

The French Quarter, where Mardi Gras is held, was untouched by the floods that destroyed most of the city. Partygoers returned to the city to celebrate the French holiday commemorating the start of Lent.

New York - Radio shock-jock Howard Stem is accused of breaching his contract with CBS and its former radio division of Viacom. Stern recently left CBS to launch a new program on Sirius satellite radio. CBS claims that Stern improperly used his remaining time at CBS to promote his new show and did not fulfill obligations of his contract. Stern refuted the lawsuit and said he is being unfairly attacked.

Washington -

The Supreme Court agreed to hear a a variety of cases for its upcoming session, including a lawsuit by former Playmate Anna Nicole Smith. Smith argued her right to her late oil tycoon husband's $4 74 million estate in court Feb. 28. The court will also rule on controversial redistricting measures that led to a majority of seats for Republicans from Texas.

Chicago - A group of student journalists from Governor's State University fell short in an attempt to argue freedom of speech before the U.S. Supreme Court. The high court declined to hear a case questioning students' rights to publish material without university interference.

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BAGHDAD - Sunni Muslims from across central Iraq, alarmed by how easily Shiite Muslim fighters had attacked their mosques during last week's clashes, said Monday that they were sending weapons to Baghdad and were preparing to dispatch their own fighters to the Iraqi capital in case of further violence.

While no central Sunni group appeared to be coordinating the movement of weapons and people, the widespread claims were seen as the first evidence that Sunnis are organizing to combat Shiite militias, which had mustered thousands of armed men to control many Baghdad neighborhoods after last week's bombing of one of Shiite Islam's holiest shrines.

Iraq was calmer Monday, but the Sunni preparations suggested that the country is still in danger of descending into civil war.

Violence peaked last Wednesday and Thursday, after the bombing of the shrine in the predominantly Sunni city of Samarra touched off reprisals against Sunni mosques in Baghdad. Sunni leaders who pulled out oftalks aimed at establishing a new government in the wake of the violence said Sunday that they'd HASSAN lBDULRlllK I KRT NEWS SERVICE rejoin the negotiations.

While outright civil war has been avoid- Shiites demonstrate on the streets of Najaf, Iraq in support of religious leader Ayatalloh al Sistani. The ed for now, tensions remain high, and country is on the verge of civil war after a Shiite Mosque was destroyed by Sunni extremists.

Sunnis throughout Iraq were vowing to be better prepared should violence break out among provinces last week in part to stop complained since that government forces again. residents and weapons from entering have targeted their communities with Sunnis in several Iraqi cities said Baghdad from his city. death squads. last week's clashes showed that they Sunni politicians confirmed that many Shiite militias have been visible weren't as prepared for civil strife as Sunnis outside Baghdad had volunteered throughout Iraq since Saddam's regime their Shiite rivals. to join the battle in the capital, but said ended. Among the most prominent are "I will be the first to go to Baghdad ... they'd discouraged such activities. the Badr Organization, which is aligned and help defend the mosques," said "I received phone calls from women with the political party the Supreme Mustafa Adnan, 27, a graduate engineer- and men alike offering to defend Council for Islamic Revolution in Iraq, ing student from Fallujah, west of mosques. They are driven .... We asked and al-Sadr's Mahdi Army, which battled Baghdad. "It will not happen again. If the our people to calm down. They kept say- U.S. forces on many occasions before a Shiites want to do that again, it will be ing, We are not weak. We want to cease-fire last year. over our dead bodies." fight,"' said Harith Obeidi, a Sunni and True Sunni militias have yet to make an Residents expressed similar sentiments newly elected Parliament member. appearance. While the insurgency is preIn Diyala province, north of Baghdad. Some Sunnis in "the provinces offered dominantly Sunni, its leadership remains "There is tension all over Diyala," said us tens of men. But we rejected it largely invisible and its organization Dawood Salman, a 38-year-old mechanic because it might lead to civil war." unclear. from Baqouba. "Once we hear of any Historically, the Sunni-dominated Observers said the formation of Sunni attack in Baghdad, we will immediately regime of Saddam Hussein bitterly armed groups to combat Shiites would be take our weapons and head there to fight. oppressed Iraqi Shiites, even though an ominous development.

Even if the Iraqi forces close the roads, we they account for two-thirds of the "If this happens, Iraq will stay under the will find a way." country's population. control of armed camps. And the governSunni leaders claim that more than Since Saddam's toppling, Shiites have ment will never control anything," said 100 Sunni mosques in Baghdad were moved to the fore. Shiite-dominated polit- Judith Yaphe, a former CIA analyst and vandalized or destroyed in retaliation ical parties were victorious in both gener- Iraq specialist at the National Defense for the explosion Wednesday at the al elections in 2005, and Sunnis have College.

Askariya shrine in Samarra, a revered Shiite holy site. The blast destroyed the shrine's golden dome.

No group claimed responsibility for the explosion, but Shiites quickly blamed Sunni insurgents and retaliated against Sunni mosques, setting some afire and shooting at others.

Many Sunnis blamed Shiite militiamen for the destruction and said they were ashamed that they hadn't done a better job of defending their mosques.

Residents in Tikrit, Kirkuk, Fallujah and Baqouba, all predominantly Sunni cities, said they either were shipping weapons or preparing in other ways to protect Sunni mosques.

Several residents in Anbar province told Knight Ridder they were sneaking weapons into western Baghdad by back roads to avoid checkpoints. They asked not to be named.

The government denied that Sunnis were moving weapons to Baghdad, but evidence of such movements came elsewhere.

A spokesman for Muqtada al-Sadr, whose Mahdi Army militia controls Baghdad's predominantly Shiite neighborhood of Sadr City, said some Sunnibound weapons shipments had been captured, including a weapons-packed ambulance that was stopped at a checkpoint Thursday.

In the Sunni stronghold of Fallujah, a police officer, Mohammed al-Dulaimy, said he thought that the government had imposed curfews and a ban on travel

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

.... New movies cater to divene audiences

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The<e is a good variety of movies coming to theaters March 10. "The Hills Have Eyes" is a remake of a great horror cla s si c, "Failure to Launch" is a wellintended original romantic comedy, and another remake, "The Shaggy Dog," is sure to be a family favorite.

There is something new at the movies for everyone to enjoy this week .

"The Hills Have Eyes" In "The Hills Have Eyes," a family road trip goes sour when the travelers become stranded in a governmentowned atomic zone. Miles from nowhere, the family car breaks down and family members are forced to fend for themselves with no cell phone reception and no way to contact anybody.

They soo11 discover the seemingly uninhabited nuclear wasteland of New Mexico is actually the breeding ground of a mutated family... and they are the prey.

Atomic fallout has mutated a family who refused to evacuate during nuclear testing.

In almost 30 years, the tagline for this movie hasn't changed: "The lucky ones die first ... " Similar to many of the newer movies coming out, this movie is a remake. It is rigidly based on Wes Craven's 1977 film by the same title.

Unlike other remakes, this

one might just do justice to the original and stay true to its roots.

If you have ever been on a cross-country road trip through New Mexico, this movie is for you.

It takes a simple family road trip, which most people have been on at some point, and adds an element of histori cal irony.

This movie is rated R for strong violence and Ianguage.

"Failure to Launch" The next film is "Failure to Launch." A man in his 30s (Matthew McConaughey) who still lives with his parents, falls in love with the woman of his dreams (Sarah Jessica Parker).

But he begins to suspect she has been hired by his parents as a way to get him out of the house.

I'm not a Sarah Jessica Parker fan, and this movie doesn't look to be much better than her other work.

I've watched a few episodes of "Sex and the City," more than one so as not to judge too hastily, and I'm still not at all impressed with her acting ability.

The plotline of "Failure to Launch" is basic and boring.

I'm all for a good romantic comedy once in a while, but after having viewed the trailer for this movie, my money could be better spent on something else.

As boring as this movie will be, as long as there is a guy out there who wants to impress a girl, I foresee this

COURTESY PHOTO

Tim Allen stars in the remake of "The Shaggy Dog," which is set to open in theatres on March 10. Allen plays a man who turns into a dog after being injected with a genetic mutation serum.

movie making money in theaters. This movie is rated PG-13 for some sexual content and language.

"The Shaggy Dog'' "The Shaggy Dog" is a story about Deputy D.A. Dave Douglas (Tim Allen) who takes on a case involving an animal laboratory.

When Dave is infected with a top-secret vaccine, everything he thought he knew changes .

Dave gains a whole new perspective into his family's feelings toward him as he becomes the family dog.

This movie is a remake of the original "Shaggy Dog" movie of 1959, which was also made into a made-forTV movie in 1994.

In the original, an ancient spell changes a boy into a sheepdog and the spell is only broken by an act of bravery.

The new plot is more modern, changing the magic

spell into a genetic mutation serum. Every kid and fanatic dog lover in the country will be clamoring to get tickets to see this movie, but I'm a cat person.

This movie doesn't appeal to me because the preview portrays it as very childish rather than funny or interesting.

The movie is rated PG for some mild, rude humor.

For more information, visit www. imdb.com.

~

~ ~

IN BRIEFa;t

Auditions to be "Necessary Targets"

held

for

Auditions are being held for the next Palomar production "Necessary Targets" on March 7 at 7 p.m. in the Howard Brubeck Theatre.

There are seven parts available for women of all ages.

The play is directed by Palomar professor Dana Case and is about women, war, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Free concerts Thursday

offered

every

Concert Hour is a free concert series that features diverse local artists and talents.

Concerts are held every Thursday in Room D-10 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:20 p.m.

The next performance is on March 9 and features Larry Karush, a solo pianist who specializes in jazz.

For a full list of Concert Hour performances, visit www.palomarperforms.com.

Boehm Gallery celebrates Cesar Chavez' birthday with exhibit The Boehm Gallery will host an exhibit to commemorate the birthday of Cesar Chavez, the founder of United Farm Workers.

The exhibit is made up of 40 photographs of Chavez that were taken during the farm workers movement.

The exhibit runs from March 15 through April 15 with an artist reception on March 31 from noon to 3 p.m.

;_;!..,;. .~. .~.~--~·.~. ~. .;..;_~·. in theatres

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THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

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PALOMAR COLLEGE

The Palomar College GEAR UP Program is looking for outgoing and energetic students who are seeking a leadership role.

We're currently accepting applications for the following positions: Tutor/Mentors (Provide academic assistance in-class and after school))

Office Assistants (Perform computer work, data analysis, phones, planning/organizing)

Program Assistants (Assist with evening and weekend programs/trips; activity planning)

Here's what you can expect as a Palomar College GEAR UP employee: • Excellent direct experience for future teachers/educators • Give back to your community and younger students • Work in San Marcos or Vista Middle/High Schools • Participate in fun activities, events, and field trips • Start working right away ($ for the holidays) • Get great work experience for your resume • $9.00 per hour, starting salary • Or, volunteer/serve!

For information on how to apply

Joe Vasquez, Outreach Coordinator (760) 290-2526 JVasquez@palomar.edu

Calvin One Deer Gavin, Director (760) 290-2521 onedeer@palomar.edu

8

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

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THE TELESCOPE â&#x20AC;˘ MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

9

LiCJhl and briCJht to be 'in' this sprint B Abbe Mastracco

T E rmsc PE

The saying "history always repeats itself' has never rung truer than in the world of fashion. This year's spring trends are a jumbled mix from the 40's through the 70's, but with a modern spin.

The style rules are changing this spring. Bright colors are in, pastels are out; brown is the new black and prints are replacing solids.

Accessories are bigger and better than before. Pile them on - the more the merrier.

Throw out all the old style rules because this spring, fashion is all about creating your own set of rules.

Many of the new styles reminiscent of seem menswear. Mens' style vests and Bermuda shorts are popular this year. Pinstripe vests and herringbone shorts are being seen all over stores. Some shorts have taken on a knicker-like quality by being cinched under the knee. These are coming in as a more tapered and fitted alternative to last season's gauchos.

The preppier look is taking on a new twist this season. Think of sailor-type clothing: red, white, and navy blue, thick broad stripes, white pants, and brass buttons. This look is

no longer restricted to Maryland yacht clubs.

The biggest trend right now has to be big, bright, prints. There is one to suit everyone's taste, from hippy and bohemian, to psychedelic, to simple polka dots or stripes. fall's Different . than Indian-inspired prints, these prints seem to have lost the ethnic touch for spring. Opposed to fall's deep, rich, jewel-toned colors, these hues are as bright as spring's flowers. Also, the sequins and beads used to embellish every last item of fall's clothes are gone.

Instead, shiny fabrics are used to make these colors stand out. People will spot you from a mile away but you won't leave a mile-long trail of sequins and glitter.

Purple was fall's new "it" color and this season it is just as popular. The shade has lightened up for spring and is accompanied by variations such as magenta, burgundy and maroon. Instead of looking like an Easter egg, you'll look like an orchid.

On the other end of the color spectrum, brown is no longer just a fall color. It complements the subdued earth tones of tan and olive that are being seen in the bohemian prints. Black can often be too harsh for spring,

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DOMINICK ULLOA I THE TELESCOPE

Kristi Knrthaup models a ruffled bubble skirt Bubble skirts and ruffles are two of the spring fashion season's biggest trends. brown is a much better alternative. Brown also complements most skin tones and brings out a range of eye colors.

Fall's popular peasant skirts have gone out in favor of spring's new bubble skirts. Lighter, and yes boys, shorter, these skirts are simple and much easier to wear.

Without a hemline, these skirts are a creative new twist on an old favorite.

Similar to those are bubble

shirts. Both these skirts and shirts were seen in Betsey Johnson ahd BCBG runway shows during New York Fashion Week.

Similar to last year, wedge-heeled espadrilles are still the reigning footwear trend. Wood, cork, or crochet wedges in all colors, heights and styles.

Purses and accessories are going big this spring. Large crocheted bags and equally large bangle bracelets have

carried over from fall. Big, chunky beads help accentuate a low neckline, and long necklaces are being mixed and matched and piled on.

Overall, spring's fashions are comfortable. Light, breathable materials are much easier to wear, and practical for warm San Diego days. Comfort is key, because if you aren't comfortable in what you are wearing then why wear it at all?

Former student donates bronze sculpture B lan Clark T E TELESCOPf

COURTESY PHOTO

Former Palomar student Claudio De Rungs sculpture of Kazi, a juvenile giraffe at the San Diego Wild Animal Park was delivered to the park Sept. 21.

z

Former Palomar studentturned-artist, Claudio De Rungs delivered "Kazi" through the gates of the San Diego Wild Animal Park on Sept. 21. De Rungs made a bronze sculpture of Kazi, one of the juvenile giraffes at the park.

The idea came to De Rungs about a year and a half ago while he and his wife were enjoying a day at the Wild Animal Park. At the Heart of Africa, Claudio was able to feed the giraffes. There is a rule at these areas, that people can feed, but can't touch, the animals.

"I had a strong urge to feel the nose and tongue of the giraffe," De Rungs said. This was when the idea of creating a sculpture of one of the giraffes came into De Rung's head.

"The sculpture would make it possible for me to touch it as much as I want," De Rungs said.

Using his knowledge from the Palomar Foundry Department, De Rungs was able to make this dream a reality.

He picked out a young giraffe named Kazi, which means ''work" in Swahili. He then took four rolls of pictures of Kazi to use as reference.

De Rungs decided that he would create this life-like sculpture of Kazi and donate it to the Wild Animal Park.

He began sculpting the 4foot-tall work of art in wax.

After completing the wax version in 2004, De Rungs took it to the Wild Animal Park where it was inspected for accuracy.

"He drew a lot of attention, just in wax," said Claudio's wife, Laura De Rungs. "Even when it was behind the scenes."

Soon, it was on to the final process of casting it in bronze.

When finished, Kazi stood 6 feet tall on its granite base and weighed 160 lbs. It was colored using special life-like Patina coloration; the process of using chemical reactions in order to make color on bronze.

De Rungs donated the project that was appraised at $19,500, but held a fundraiser to put a second version of Kazi up for sale at the Natural History Museum.

Deborah Stanley, Foundation director at Palomar, was able to assist De Rungs with the fundraiser.

"I helped him connect with the right people at the Wild Animal Park in order for "Kazi" to get recognized as the great project it is," Stanley said. "It is a joy to see the children play with Kazi."

Though the fundraiser covered one third of the cost of the project, De Rungs said he didn't care. ''This is a labor of love. If you do it out of financial motivation, then you won't be successful," De Rungs said.

Kazi is on display at the giraffe feeding area on the Heart of Africa walk at the Wild Animal Park and at The Natural History Museum.

De Rungs' interest in art began after moving to America in 1993.

De Rungs came from Switzerland where he decided to wait for spring before he started his trip to South America. While waiting, he came across a problem with his motor home and came to San Diego. After waiting for his order he ended up meeting his wife Laura. Needless to say the trip never happened, and San Diego County became his new home.

De Rung's English was very poor and he knew that he needed to take some English classes. He came to Palomar College and began to learn how to speak English, but soon he was taking classes in many subjects.

He earned an associate degree in Graphic Design and Multimedia.

Since then, De Rungs has created several other sculptures such as animals, mermaids and human torso sectionals. He has a Web site that showcases he work at www.claudioderungs.com. ''Without Palomar College and the foundry program, I probably never would have arrived where I am today," De Rungs said.

THE TELESCOPE • MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

10

= Despite ratings, Olympics packed punch •0 a. "' E

0

Lately I've been reading about how the Olympics are no longer what they once were , with references to plummeting television ratings as an indicator of declining interest.

Ratings are at an all-time low for several reasons, none of which is a lack of appeal. In the hightech age, low ratings are inevitable, with the popularity of reality viewing, expanded cable and satellite dishes. These digital factors assure that Olympic ratings will never again reach the heights that they once had.

But not to worry, interest is still NBC (National healthy as Broadcasting Company) is reporting an estimated profit of $50-75 million from the Winter Games.

And we all know what makes the world go round-money, honey.

With that said, the Olympics were a great watch because they were full of action, great competition and some fascinating storylines.

Here are my picks for most fascinating storylines (with an American twist) of the 20th Winter Olympic Games from Turin, Italy:

American athletes to strive for Winter Olympic gold, while at the same time reminding all of us that nothing is impossible. Davis was also involved in the biggest media controversy of these games, participating in a war of words with fellow U.S. speedskating gold medalist Chad Hedrick. However, as time passes by, Davis' exchange with Hedrick will become nothing more than a footnote in history.

LADIES' FIGURE SKATING

The flagship event of the Winter Games experienced some history of its own, albeit much less significant.

By winning the gold at the age of 24, Shizuka Arakawa became the second oldest ladies' figure skating champion since 1920. Arakawa walked through the door left open by the falls of American Sasha Cohen and Russian Irina Slutskaya to capture the title with a conservative but clean performance. To their credit, Cohen and Slutskaya salvaged silver and bronze and didn't act like divas on ice despite the obvious disappointment ofletting Olympic gold slip away.

SOAP OPED ON ICE In Ice Dancing, the Italian team of Maurizio Margaglio and Barbara Fusar Poli (mostly her) provided a worldwide audience with some unplanned reality television. Only six seconds away from completing the "Original" dance, the second of three Ice Dancing segments, Margaglio dropped Fusar Poli during a lift.

When the program ended, Fusar Poli engaged Margaglio in a 31 second stare down that would make any man fear for his very life. It didn't end

HISTORY The single most important storyline to come out of Turin is the gold medal won by American speedskater, Shani Davis. The 23-year-old Davis made history when he became the first black athlete to win an individual gold medal in Winter Olympic history. By winning the 1,000-meter race, he opens doors for African-

\

tl1£ R N

BARBARA L. JOHNSTON I KRT NEWS SERVICE

Shani Davis skates through a turn during the Men's 1,500-meter speed skating competition on Feb. 21, 2006 at the Oval Lingotto in Turin, Italy, during the 2006 Winter Olympics. there, as Fusar Poli never took her what most of us would do, capitalize eyes off him, while he could not bring on 15 minutes of fame. According to himself to look at her. This continued people closest to Miller, he was simply into the third and final segment, being his quirky self in Turin. He was where the Italians skated beautifully. not, however, being himself on the When it was over, Fusar Poli slopes, failing to medal in all five of embraced Margaglio, who could no his events. longer contain his emotions, making Unfortunately, the expectations it a true Italian "soap opera on ice." It bestowed upon him by the media, should be noted that Americans fair or unfair, made his performances Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto look more like "Booty" Miller instead became the first American team since of Bode Miller, who we were told would be winning medals for the 1976 to medal, capturing silver.

Stars and Stripes.

I'll eagerly await the 2010 Winter AMERICAN HYPE MACHINE Olympics from Vancouver, hoping to Hands down, the biggest disappointment of the games was witness history and desperately hopAmerican skier Bode Miller. I feel ing to see the next "Italian soap sorry for him because he only did opera."

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11

Comets roll in conference opener "It took us a couple of innings to get rolling, but once we got rolling, we did what we were If the first conference game supposed to do," said head was any indication, the coach Buck Taylor.

Palomar College I'"A_R _A _B _ S_ _ __, "We executed offenbaseball team is well sively and that's what COMETS 12 on its way to a strong we should do against a Pacific Coast club like this."

Conference season, following a Palomar (11-5, 1-0) was led 12-1 blowout of Imperial Valley by a strong outing from pitcher Joe Cates. The freshman went on Feb 25.

By John Scafetta

THE TELESCOPE

seven innings, while giving up no earned runs, striking out seven and walking one. The victory moved his record to 2-0 on the season.

"I was happy (with the start)," Cates said. "The team came out behind me and played great defense. I felt confident in all of my pitches, and for the most part hitting all my locations."

Cates did not give up a hit

.· ELLIOT DE LISSER I THE TELESCOPE

Starting pitcher Joe Cates delivers a pitch versus Imperial Valley on Feb. 25. Cates pitched seven innings in a 12-1 win for the Comets.

until the fourth inning, and kept from the Kansas City Royals in Arab hitters off balance and last year's June draft. "We were behind his fastball for most of hitting, getting guys on, and moving them over." the game.

Palomar tacked on another "It was a great job," Taylor run in the fifth, with an RBI sinsaid. "He got ahead of hitters gle from Chavez. The Comets and he got lead outs." then put the game E v e n out of reach in the though the sixth, when score was lopChavez came to sided , the plate once Palomar was again, this time held scoreless with the bases until the botWho: Palomar versus San Diego Mesa loaded. With a 1-0 tom of the What: Conference game count, he ripped third when When: 2p.m., March 7 his second offering first baseman just inside the Where: Palomar baseball field Cameron right field foul Penny (2-forAt stake: The Comets take on the pole for the grand 4) drove in Olympians for the first time this season, slam . The ball second baseas the Pacific Coast Conference season traveled an estiman Travis begins to heat up. Palomar dominated mated 400 feet, Boucher with Mesa last season, winning all five meetgwmg Palomar an RBI single. ings by acombined score of 31-9. the 12-0 lead.

The Comets "It was a beautithen broke it open in the bottom half of the ful thing," Chavez said, referring to his mammoth blast. fourth, scoring four times on a Chavez finished the game two-run double off the bat of shortstop Jason Ednoff (1-for-2, going 2-for-4 with five RBis, along with his sixth home run of two RBis), which was followed the season. by a check-swing, two-run single "I think you need to stay at from center fielder Tyler Perkins even keel," Taylor said. "It was a (1-for-4, three RBis).

"Sometimes it takes one great job and he's been doing a time through the lineup ," great job for us. I hope he can Taylor said. "You would like keep it up."

With the start of the conferfor it not to , but it's an adjustence season, the Comets head ment period, and they did a into a tough month, facing rival great job of adjusting. " Grossmont three times within The Comets only connected for nine hits , despite scoring three weeks.

"It's going to be a battle, we're 12 runs.

"Mter the first couple of preparing for a battle," Taylor said. "From what I understand, innings, everybody got around to everyone's a little better. It's just doing what they do," said desigone game at a time, and we're nated hitter Zane Chavez, who was the 19th round draft pick just going to go after guys."

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Palomar sweeps doubleheader with strong pitching know why, but after that I always r egroup , get things together The rest of the Pacific Coast and everything is Confer ence be warned. With a little okay." more work in pracIt took the Comets a tice, the P alomar GAME ONE few innings t o get softball team feel s PIRATES started versus the they will be r eady to Pirates, but once they COMETS 7 defend th e conferdid in the fo urth GAME TWO ence title and possiinning, th ey put the PIRATES 0 bly more. game out of reach.

They showed wh at COMETS 1J "We started slow, they are capable of they gave us a lot of in a non-conference doubleheader Feb. outs and th at helped," 25 against visiting Orange Coast Eldridge said . "We College, as the Comets took game one, still have a lot of work 7-3 and game two, 13-0 . to do . We show our Strong pitching performances was the upside and then we theme for the seventh-ranked Comets, show our inexperias Janielle Nickels pitched a six-hitter ence." in the opener and Melissa Lerno threw In the fourth inning, a three-hit shutout in the second game. the Comets sent 14 "She's getting better, she is really players to the plate, improving," said head coach Mark scoring nine runs. At Eldridge.

"She ELLIOT DE LISSER I TilE TELESCOPE one point, pitched real well Palomar had Freshman pitcher Melissa Lerno pitched five shutout innings versus Orange Coast on Feb. 25 to give the Comets a 13-0 win. again and I think seven conshe is gaining a lot Maldonado also had a triple and will be a force to be reckoned with. secutive hits to build the 13-0 of confidence out three RBis in the first game. Despite "We are starting to work together now lead. there." going 3-for-5 with five RBis on the day, and getting our hits together, instead of Comets Clarissa After a rough Eldridge said his clean-up hitter didn't scattering them," Lerna said. "We are Maldonado (3-for-3, two first inning where RBis), Alicia Vicencio (2-for- have her best day at the plate, but still doing a lot, working hard in practice Lerna gave up found a way to get it done. and it is paying off in the game.

3, triple), Jerrica Faa'sua (2three hits and Who: Palomar versus Grossmont "She really wasn't in sync today," "It's all of us, not just the pitchers, for-3 , two RBis), Jade What: Conference game walked one, the Faa'sua (2-for-3, stolen base), Eldridge said. "In my opinion, she was- not just the hitters but we are all workfreshman settled When: 3 p.m., March 13 Nikki Cordova (2-for-2 , dou- n't getting in her best swings, but she ing together as a team." down and did not Where: Palomar softball field Eldridge, however, said the team has ble) and Sipau Lee Noa (2- found a way to do it. She is in a position allow another hit, in the order where you need to do that." a bit more work to do. for-2) had multiple hits in the At stake: The Comets take on the retiring the next Griffins for the first of two conference In the first game, Nickels pitched a "We are in a different class right now second game.

13 batters, five of matchups this season. Grossmont complete game six-hitter, striking out but we have some different levels to "It's really contagious, ifthe them by strikeout. three. Noa went 3-for-4 with a home reach, " Eldridge said. "We have to get first batter can get a hit then failed to score a run in three games "I had a bit of a run and Lerna and Katie Soulders both better, so we are going to keep working our team usually picks that shaky first inning," versus the Comets last season, as the on that. There is a higher standard up and everybody gets into it were 2-for-2.

Comets blew out the Griffins by a comLerna said. "I usuLerna said she feels the team is just that we want to have and we are lookand gets hits one after anothbined score of 42-0. ally do, I don't getting in its groove and said the team ing for that. " er," Maldonado said.

Bl Malt Null -, T.•ESCOPE

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12

THE TELESCOPE â&#x20AC;˘ MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006

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By Matt Null THE TELESCOPE

Once G.P. Wells and E.J. Ross graduated from high school, the best friends of seven years never thought they would play basketball together again.

Three years and 2,614 miles later, the Orange, Virginia natives came to Palomar College with one thing in mind, a reunion on the basketball court.

"We never thought we would be playing together in college," Wells said. "That was the last thing we thought of. It was like one of those questions, 'What if?"'

Ross added that playing together was mentioned after the two graduated, but the two 21 year olds didn't actually think it would happen.

And it almost didn't. One week before school started, Wells said both of them were sitting in their apartment, making phone calls home. The two were suffering from home sickness, and were contemplating returning to Virginia.

"We got here a week before school started," Ross said. "All we did was sit in the house, we didn't know nobody and we were ready to go back."

Ross said their daily routine consisted of walking to the gym, playing basketball and walking back home.

"We stuck with it, we wanted to see what it was going to be like the first day," Ross said.

PHOTOS BY HUGH COX I THE TElESCOPE

E.J. Ross (left) and G.P. Wells led the Palomar College men's basketball team to a 13-1 conference record. It was the Comets' first Pacific Coast Conference title since the 2002-2003 season.

"After the first day it was alright, I kind of like it out here."

The two hail from a small town with a population of about 4,000 that's located 83 miles from the nation's capital. With such a small population, the duo said their exploits at Palomar have made the local paper several times.

"Our town is so little, everybody in the whole town knows who we are.

It is that little," said Ross, who sports several tattoos in honor of his family. and speaks to his mother at least once a day. "Just hit one back road for 20 minutes and you are home. All you have to worry about is deers and skunks."

"It's a small enough town where everybody there knows us," Wells said.

The teammates said one reason they came to Palomar was because neither of them had been to California and both wanted to experience something new.

"Our AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) coach asked if we wanted to go to California," Wells said. "He set it up for us and sent our tapes in and coach O'Neill liked what he saw and he told us to go out there."

O'Neill said he received a phone call from Wells before the season started and told the freshman what he would have to do to attend Palomar.

Despite the lack of familiarity, O'Neill said he was happy to have the two on the team.

"I had no idea who they were, I didn't know anything about them," O'Neill said.

"But I think it has worked out wonderfully."

O'Neill said this past basketball season, which ended Feb. 22 with a first round loss in the Southern California Regionals, was a dream season and Ross and Wells were key contributors.

Ross was named first-team All-Pacific Coast Conference and was the second leading scorer in conference with a 17.3 point per game average. Wells was right behind him, scoring 16.6 points per game and was named to the second team AllFCC.

Wells and Ross both said the awards were nice, but this season was all about winning something they did a lot. Despite starting the season 2-9, the Comets won 12 straight games and went 13-1 in conference play to get their first conference title since the 2002-2003 season.

"Then when we won the championship together," Wells said.

"That just put the icing on the cake right there," O'Neill added , "This was a special season. This is one of the top three or four teams I've ever coached in over 30 years of coaching."

The two said playing together helps them with their individual games.

"You can find out what you can do by looking at what somebody else does ," Ross said. "If he is shooting and he keeps making it from the same spot, well maybe if I do that same shot then it will pretty much go in, it will make you better by watching someone else."

After high school, Wells moved to Illinois to play at another junior college, but quickly left because he didn't get along with the coach and he didn't know anybody.

Now that they have been reunited, Wells said playing with his best friend made the transition much smoother.

"Its easier on me. When I was at the other school I didn't know the people, I didn't feel comfortable playing around them, I was by myself, I didn't know what they did or nothing," Wells said. "But with me and him, we don't even have to say nothing. We can give a look and we already know what we are going to do."

Ross said the tough loss to Mt. San Antonio College in the playoffs was a tough one for the team, but with only two players leaving, the duo said they are excited about next season and what it might bring the two - another conference championship.

"I can't wait for the season to start.

Just because of how close we got in our first try," Ross said.

O'Neill agreed, saying the Comets should be the favorites. ''You never know, we've got a good chance for next year," O'Neill said.

"We've got all these guys back who are used to winning now, so we've got the best chance of anybody to win our league."

"First time this has happened since I've been here to have this many guys back off a winning team," O'Neill said.

O'Neill said the two bring more than skill to the basketball court.

"The thing I think they contributed was a non-selfish attitude to the team," O'Neill said. "They could have been selfish thinking stats are the only important things .

"It would have disinterested the team.

But it didn't. That's not their character; they are very high character kids. They get along so well with everyone."

Even though the two didn't plan life after high school together, they already know where they want to go after Palomar. They said they have interest in Cal State Fullerton but will look to go back home to play if the opportunity presents itself.