The Telescope 73.03

Vol. 73, No. 3

Monday, October 21, 2019

Friendly competition fuels dynamic duo Jordan Spurgeon STAFF EDITOR

The Comets football team has not one, but two talented wide receivers leading the way this season.

Kyran Griffin and Johnny Armentrout are tied for the team lead in receptions with 31. Neither of them envisioned being at Palomar just a few years ago.

Griffin grew up in New Orleans, Lousiana and was stationed at Camp Pendleton for three years in the Marine Corps. At 26 years of age Griffin decided he wanted to play football like he did in high school because he loves the game.

Armentrout went to El Camino High School in Oceanside, Calif. before

Palomar Football’s wide receivers Kyran Griffin and Johnny Armentrout pose for a portrait after practice. Kevin Mijares/The Telescope.

bouncing around playing football at Riverside Community College and Saddleback Community College. He took two years off before deciding to play at Palomar.

Their numbers are similar, but their playstyles differ. Armentrout is a slot receiver and is listed at 5 feet 10 inches and 170 pounds. Griffin is an outside play maker who is listed at 6 feet 3 inches and 165 pounds.

Griffin has 446 yards receiving and three touchdowns. Armentrout has 384 yards and five touchdowns.

The two have a friendly rivalry together on the field. They push each other in practice and in games, Armentrout said.

SEE DYNAMIC DUO ON PAGE 11

‘Well Seasoned’ performance celebrates the change of the seasons Alex Garcia STAFF EDITOR

The Palomar Performing Arts Department recently held the concert symphony “Well Seasoned,” which, in director Ken Bell’s words, was a “night to celebrate the change of seasons.”

The concert was held on Oct. 12 at Palomar’s Howard Brubeck Theatre, which was almost at max capacity.

The band was made up of about 70 people who played all kinds of instruments like flutes, clarinets, trumpets, saxophones, trombones, tubas and much more.

The performance also

included a special performance from Anna Piland on the cello.

“I want them to hear as always in any of our concerts the different combination of sounds that a concert band can make, because we will have about 70 individual instruments which can get very loud,” said Bell.

There was a total of eight pieces that were played, with two of the pieces which included dancers that performed along with the music.

One was a group of 11 dancers who were choreographed and lead by Dr. Molly Faulkner and the next were two Brazilian samba dancers.

NEWS

SEE PAGE 4

“The ability of our dancers to work with live music is a really important part of their education, and you need a level of artistry and sensitivity as a professional dancer and this really gives them an opportunity to develop that skill because the music will never be the same twice,” said Faulkner.

The symphony began with the “National Anthem,” then moved on to the first piece named “October” which in Bell’s words is very “atmospheric” and is written by Eric Whitacre.

SEE ‘WELL SEASONED’ ON PAGE 7

Faculty members express ‘sadness and anxiety’ over petition Ana Acosta STAFF EDITOR

Faculty will vote on their level of confidence in the future of President/ Superintendent Joi Lin Blake’s leadership.

The poll was distributed to full-time faculty members on Oct. 4, collected on Oct. 21, and will be counted on Oct. 28.

The Faculty Senate will present the results at the Nov. 12 Governing Board meeting. President Blake has chosen not to respond at this time.

Two faculty members, Barbara Kelber and Jerry Jenkins, presented the petition that requested the Faculty Senate to issue the poll at the Sept. 23 meeting.

In an email, Kelber expressed why Jenkins and herself decided to initiate the petition.

“My disappointment and discouragement had been building over a year’s time,” Kelber wrote.

“Like Dr. Kelber, my decision to create the petition came with extreme sadness and anxiety,” Jenkins wrote in an email.

The petition outlined three main concerns regarding President Blake’s three year tenure. The first being the dismissal or departure of “several skilled, qualified administrators.”

‘Well Seasoned’ is a musical performace intended to celebrate the changing of the seasons. Alex Garcia/The Telescope.

OPINION

SEE PAGE 6

SPORTS

Grand re-opening of arboretum

Staff Picks: Best TV streaming services

Arturo Soltero: Off the Field

The Edwin and Francis Hunter Arboretum grand re-opening displays new walking trail and naming stone.

With the release of Disney+, people will be searching for a the best streaming service platforms. Read our top picks.

A modest mindset has brought one young man to the front and center of Palomar’s soccer team.

SEE PETITION UPDATE ON PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 12

2 • NEWS

October 21, 2019

t BRIEFLY t UPCOMING EVENTS

Tuesday 3 p.m. Women’s Soccer v.

Southwestern

Wednesday 2 p.m. Women’s Water Polo v. Crafton Hills 3 p.m. Men’s Water Polo v. Crafton Hills 7 p.m. Wrestling v. Santa Ana

Friday 3 p.m. Men’s Soccer v. Southwestern 5 p.m. Women’s Volleyball v. Mira

FREE FARMER’S MARKET TUESDAYS SAN MARCOS --- The Palomar College Food and Nutrition Center will be hosting a Free Food Farmers Market every Tuesday at the Fallbrook, Escondido and Rancho Bernardo campuses.

The event will have an array of foods for patrons to try including breads, fruits and pastries, and the best part is, it’s all free, just remember to bring your student activity card and your own bag. If you plan on attending the event the dates and campuses are:

EVENT GIVES STUDENTS A ‘BITE OF REALITY’

Escondido Nov. 19 Fallbrook Nov. 5 Dec. 10 Rancho Bernardo Oct. 22 Nov. 12 Dec. 10 The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.. so students should get there early.

— Ripp Friesen

‘DREAMING OF MAGIC’ SYMPHONY EVENT

Will Finsterbusch and a fellow students learn how to buy clothes and necessities while remaining financially responsible. Kiana Teixeira/The Telescope.

Costa

Saturday 7:30 -10 p.m. Fall Choral Showcase San Marcos Lutheran Church

Sunday 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Dreaming of Music Howard Brubeck Theatre

Tuesday 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Breast Cancer Awareness TLC-112 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Café International Student Union Cafeteria

Wednesday 2 p.m. Women’s Water Polo v.

Miramar

SAN MARCOS --- The Palomar Performing Arts will be hosting a musical performance called “Dreaming of Magic: Palomar Music Performers Past, Present and Future!”

The event is open to the public. The performance will showcase music majors, people of interest, current students and other community members.

Classical performances by alumni Mary Jaeb, Robert Giracello and Emily Harrington will also be at the event.

The Cadencua ensemble, directed by Anna Pilad, will start off the event.

Shawn Jerge, a Palomar student and pianist, will perform Gershwin’s “Piano Concerto in F major.”

The Palomar Symphony Orchestra will also further entertain the audience with selections from Men-

delssohn’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

This event will take place from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 27 at the Howard Brubeck Theatre.

For those interested in meeting the performers and/or students in the program, doors will open 45 minutes prior for a preconcert chat.

Tickets are available at the box office and admission is $10 for students, $15 for non-students.

Parking is free in lots 1, 2, and 15 during this event.

If you have any questions regarding this event, you can call the box office at (760) 744-1150 ext. 2453 or check out the website www.palomarperforms.com.

— Natalie Lopez

3:30 p.m. Men’s Water Polo v.

Miramar 7 p.m. Wrestling v. Rio Hondo

Friday 1 p.m. Women’s Soccer v. San Diego CC C 3 p.m. Men’s Soccer v. Imperial Valley

Wednesday 5 p.m. Women’s Volleyball v. San Diego Mesa 3 p.m. - 5p.m. Resilience Film Screening

CLUB PREPARES STUDENTS FOR CAREERS IN LAW SAN MARCOS --Palomar’s Law Club allows students interested in law to meet legal professionals, to receive LSAT practice.

The club allows students interested in political science and law to discuss political topics that are controversial and not often talked about in class Students who are in-

terested in a career in the political field or are curious about current political topics, the club meets from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Oct. 23 in MD-303.

For more information or to ask questions, contact pmarlawandpolicyclub@gmail.com or call at (602) 574-0742.

— Natalie Lopez

Room D-10

CORRECTIONS SEPT. 30 THIS DAY IN HISTORY 1956

Actress Carrie Fisher was born.

She starred as Princess Leia in Star Wars.

In the story “ASG gains support for Parking Proposal,” it said that an upcoming administrative retreat will cost $400,000.

The $400,000 mentioned was in relation to the costs of campaining for a future construction bond, not in regards to a retreat.

We regret the errors made.

Cal Coast Credit Union volunteer Josh Antus advises Will Finsterbusch, a Palomar student, on how to make better financial decisions in the future. Kiana Teixeira/The Telescope.

NEWS • 3

the-telescope.com

Palomar College Governing Board members at the Oct. 8 Meeting, San Marcos Campus. Oct. 8. Adel Bautista/The Telescope.

Governing Board overview for Oct. 8 meeting Ana Acosta STAFF EDITOR

Faculty and administration members gathered in SSC-1 for the Governing Board meeting on Oct. 8.

Here are some highlights from the meeting.

Multiple faculty members arrived with signs that said, “We are here! Hear us!” and “Let Us In!” They displayed multiple signs from outside on the room’s windows and along the inside of the board meeting room.

Attendees who could not find a seat in the room were required to stand outside due to reaching the maximum capacity required for safety precautions.

President Blake’s contract renewal Before the meeting, Teresa Laughlin and Anel Gonzalez formally requested that the board trustees postpone the decision to renew President/Superintendent Joi Lin Blake’s contract.

According to the official renewal document, Blake’s cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) would increase by 3.26 percent when approved. Gonzalez wrote in an email to board trustees that “organizations do not increase the pay of their leaders when an organization is facing a fiscal crunch.”

During the meeting, Trustee Nina Deerfield and Student Trustee Linus Smith spoke about their disapproval of renewing the contract with the COLA increase. Smith and Deerfield mentioned that the District’s current financial crisis was a reason for dissenting.

“I think it would be appropriate if we led by example in terms of taking cuts together as opposed to taking cuts to departments,” Smith said.

Trustee Hensch asked Smith to clarify if his suggestion would be implemented for all contracts

or specifically for the President/Superintendent.

Smith responded, saying that the policy should be implemented for administrators to show that they are concerned for the current fiscal crisis.

“COLA for the President/Superintendent versus COLA for classified staff is a very different amount of money,” trustee Deerfield said. “That’s why I think top-down leadership would do this differently.”

The renewal of Blake’s contract was approved with a 3-1 vote. Deerfield voted against the motion, and Smith gave a similar advisory vote.

After the meeting, Laughlin responded to the decision that was made.

“She already has an inequitable and lucrative contract,” Laughlin said. “I think that Linus Smith also pointed out it’s $9,500, which would be three parttime faculty members’ health benefits. So, it’s already inequitable.”

Gonzalez also responded to the vote during her report to the board.

“We are disappointed that, despite our requests, the board moved J3 [the contract renewal] forward,” Gonzalez said.

“Trustee Evilsizer’s comment about being equitable with the COLA is misgiving due to the fact that you approved lifetime benefits for Dr. Blake which is something that no other employee receives here. If you want to be equitable, we are all open to lifetime benefits.”

Board trustees arrived fifty minutes late The meeting officially started at 6:20 p.m., 50 minutes later than open session was scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m. During public comment reports, some faculty members mentioned their dissatisfaction with this.

“You would’ve seen more than 100 faculty and

staff that came and participated in this board meeting,” Laughlin said. “We waited, but some people had to teach class.”

Smith also mentioned the tardiness.

“I hope that it was an extraordinary circumstance why we started an hour and twenty minutes late for the meeting,” Smith said.

“But it strikes me as being slightly disrespectful to all the people here who had to wait that amount of time.”

In response, attendees applauded Smith’s comment.

Smith requested that if the board is not dealing with an extreme circumstance in closed session, that trustees call the meeting in-session at the scheduled time.

President Blake responded to Smith’s comments, saying “we will take that under consideration.”

Newly appointed trustee positions At the beginning of the Governing Board meeting, board Trustee Mark Evilsizer called for a new election of officers for the remainder of 2019. Evilsizer decided to step down from his role as board president.

Nancy Ann Hensch called for nominations to take the role of board president and was unanimously voted for the position.

Hensch nominated Evilsizer for the board secretary position.

Evilsizer was elected for the position in a 3-1 vote.

Trustees John Halcón, Evilsizer and Hensch voted in favor of the nomination while trustee Deerfield voted against the decision.

Trustee Evilsizer’s ‘insulting’ remark Before the positions were appointed, Evilsizer noted multiple reasons why he decided to step down from the presidential position, saying that the District is facing “severe financial difficulties” and “civil

rights challenges.”

“We are in fact having trouble accepting our need for diversity,” Evilsizer said. “We do not need to be known as ‘Mississippi with palm trees.”

Multiple faculty members that were present took issue with this comment.

ESL Assistant Professor Lawrence Lawson opened his public comment speech by addressing Evilsizer.

“Trustee Evilsizer, I like you a lot. You’re smart, you’re fair, you’ve always been genuine, but that comment,” Lawson said.

“That rhetoric is divisive and it alienates your allies.

To juxtapose the history of Mississippi to what’s happening here at Palomar College right now is problematic.”

Gonzalez also responded to Evilsizer’s remark during her report to the board.

“As a woman of color, I find Trustee Evilsizer’s comment... incredibly insulting,” Gonzalez said. “As a matter of fact, using perceived bigotry as an excuse to not take accountability is alarming.”

Maintenance and Operations building receives two more design awards During public comment, Facilities Planning Manager, Dennis Astl presented two design awards for M&O building to the board.

The building was recognized by The Kansas American Institute of Architects for its sustainability as well as its “elegant detailing.”

The building received this award from a Kansas institute due to the project architect headquarters being located in Kansas City.

The building also received the Malone Grand Orchid award for “thoughtful design” in aesthetics and practicality.

According to Astl, the M&O building has now received eight awards in total.

AACOSTA@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Faculty standing outside due to the meeting reaching maximum capacity. Many brought signs to hold up to the windows.

San Marcos Campus, Oct. 8. Adel Bautista/The Telescope

Anel Gonzalez said she was disappointed by Trustee Mark Evilsizer’s comment regarding campus diversity. at the Oct. 8 Governing Board meeting. Justin Enriquez/The Telescope

Trustee John Halcón holds a recent design and architect award for the M&O building. San Marcos Campus, Oct. 8. Adel Bautista/The Telescope.

4 • NEWS

October 21, 2019

PETITION UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Kelber said that the resignation of Star Rivera-Lacy was the first reason why she decided to take action.

“VP Lacy was the latest of several highlevel administrators who represented talent and diversity and who resigned or were dismissed,” Kelber wrote.

“This is alarming, and the situation continues to damage our college.”

Another reason listed on the official ballot said that President Blake has failed to consistently follow shared governance policies, specifically regarding the establishment of the Middle College program in Fall 2020.

Kelber said that the program went without required shared governance discussion.

Instead, the Middle College program was announced in a published guest column piece for the San Diego Union Tribune that was written by President Blake.

“I was stunned and angry,” Kelber wrote.

“This had not been properly reviewed and discussed in our regular shared governance councils, and launching yet another initiative in these unstable times seemed foolish and lacking in careful consideration.”

According to the Faculty Senate Constitution, 10 percent of full-time faculty members must sign a petition to initiate an opinion poll regarding either policies or people hired.

Kelber and Jenkins created the petition and received 40 signatures to represent the required 10 percent of full-time faculty members.

Some faculty members also shared why they decided to sign the petition. April Cunningham, Palomar’s Instruction Librarian, shared her reasons for signing.

“There’s been a lot of talk for at least the past year about what most people call a ‘vote of no confidence’,” Cunningham wrote in an email. “I thought it was time to move us forward instead of keeping us swirling around the same rumors

and concerns.”

Beth Pearson, another faculty member who shared her reasons for signing the petition.

“My concern about the leadership at Palomar College has intensified in the last few months with the departure of several respected Vice Presidents and Deans,” Pearson wrote in an email. “And because of my own experience working with President Blake in which I observed behavior that I and my colleagues in the room considered disrespectful and unprofessional.”

Anonymous poll ballots were distributed through campus mail on Oct. 4 to fulltime and probationary faculty members. The ballots will be collected on Oct. 21 and counted at the Oct. 28 Faculty Senate meeting. An independent third-party member of the League of Women Voters will be present to witness the counting.

“I think there are many other faculty like me, who have not yet made up their mind about how confident they feel about Dr. Blake’s leadership,” Cunningham wrote.

“Even though calling it a vote of no confidence makes it sound that we already know the outcome, for faculty who are confident that Dr. Blake is leading the district well, the poll is a chance to have their point of view counted.”

Kelber wrote in an email that the goal of the petition is to reflect the opinion of all fulltime faculty members.

“I hope the outcome will be based on 100 percent voting participation among the fulltime faculty (the only group voting),” Kelber wrote.

“Whether the outcome reflects broad confidence in President Blake’s ability to lead us at this critical time, or no confidence at all, the Faculty Senate will report the results to the Governing Board and the Faculty will have had a voice in guiding the Board’s actions going forward.”

AACOSTA@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Grand re-opening for Palomar’s arboretum finally arrives

The new naming stone for the Edwin & Frances Hunter Arboretum Trails at Palomar College was revealed on Sept. 26, 2019 at the Grand Re-opening. Adel Bautista/The Telescope.

Cheyenne Cyr STAFF WRITER

The Edwin and Francis Hunter Arboretum had its Grand Re-opening on Sept. 26, where the refurbished walking trail and naming stone were revealed to the public.

“Palomar’s arboretum is one of the greatest concentrations of plant diversity within a relatively small area in San Diego County,” said Tom Pfingsten.

The event began with Superintendent/President Joi Lin Blake giving a speech about the event, emphasizing the arboretum’s importance in Palo-

mar’s history.

“Since it was created 45 years ago, this arboretum has given countless students and others in our community as a place to enjoy the beauty of our natural environment,” Blake said.

Construction and Facilities Planning Manager, Dennis Astl, said he was honored to work on rebuilding the trail and make sure the plants were not damaged in the process.

The arboretum’s trails were renovated to be wheelchair-accessible to meet ADA standards.

Along with these improvements, an older trail sec-

Newly renovated trails at the Edwin & Frances Hunter Arboretum Trails at Palomar College, Grand Opening & Dedication on Sept. 26, 2019. Adel Bautista/The Telescope.

tion was removed and then replaced with handicap parking lot.

Palomar officials also revealed the new naming stone for the arboretum.

Attendees were then taken on a guided tour of the arboretum, where tour-guides talked indepth about some plants, their origins, and their endangered status in the wild.

According to Tony Rangel, President of the Friends of the Arboretum, there will be another guided tour in late October.

The tour will cover the new walking trail, discuss the various plant species in the arboretum as well

as the new handicap parking lot.

Plants from all major continents are represented in the arboretum, because the mild climate enables many subtropical and tropical species to survive there.

In its 45-year-long existence, plants have been donated from Huntington Botanical Gardens, Los Angeles County Arboretum, San Diego Zoo, and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

For more information on what you can do to help the arboretum, you can call (760) 744-1150 ext.

2133.

CCYR@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

President/Superintendent Joi Lin Blake speaks at the Grand Re-Opening of the Edwin & Frances Hunter Arboretum Trails at Palomar College on Sept. 26, 2019. Adel Bautista/The Telescope.

OPINION • 5

the-telescope.com

The Telescope Focused On Palomar Monday, October 21, 2019 Vol. 73, No. 3 Palomar College, San Marcos, Calif.

VICTORIA PRICE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ANA ACOSTA MANAGING EDITOR NEWS EDITOR KATY LYNN OPINION EDITOR ALEX GARCIA ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR JORDAN SPURGEON SPORTS EDITOR SUMMER AGUIRRE ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR RIPP FRIESEN FOCUS EDITOR NICOLE VILLANUEVA LIFESTYLE EDITOR KRISTA MOORE SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR KIANA TEIXEIRA PHOTO EDITOR ERIN HIRO ADVISOR MAURICE THOMAS DESIGN MANAGER STAFF WRITERS

SOPHIA BAUDER, NICHOLAS CASADONA, CHEYENNE CYR, ENRIQUE DE LEON, KYLE DYER, HALEY HARDY, ERIK LENNOX, NATALIE LOPEZ, KEVIN MIJARES, KOLETTE MOREHEAD, DRE’AS SANCHEZ, KAINOA SCHREIER, SEBASTIAN VENEGAS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ADEL BAUTISTA, STEVEN BIRCH-ARAYA, BRAULIO CAPI BELLO, ALEXANDRIA CELESTIAL, TRUDY CLEVELAND, ELVIN DIEGO, LEVI DYLKE, JUSTIN ENRIQUEZ, ISAAC FIGUEROA, SEJI GAERLAN, PATRICK HARTLEY, LAZARO JIMENEZ, BENJAMIN KING, KURT LAPID, CHRISTOPHER MALAGA-LOPEZ, NAI NG, ASHLEY RUPP, ANA VIGIL, SHALEEN VO, DIANNA WEBB, MOHAMED ZUREIK

ADDRESS THE TELESCOPE PALOMAR COLLEGE 1140 W. MISSION ROAD, SAN MARCOS, CA 92069 PHONE / 760-891-7865 NEWSROOM / H-103 WEBSITE/ WWW.THE-TELESCOPE. COM FACEBOOK/ “THE TELESCOPE” TWITTER/ @TELESCOPENEWS EMAIL/ EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE. COM AD EMAIL/ ADS@THE-TELESCOPE. COM THE TELESCOPE WELCOMES ALL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. LETTERS MUST BE TYPED, UNDER 300 WORDS AND INCLUDE THE AUTHOR’S FIRST AND LAST NAMES, MAJOR AND PHONE NUMBER. PHONE NUMBERS WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. LETTERS SHOULD BE EMAILED TO EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE.COM. THE TELESCOPE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO EDIT LETTERS FOR SPACE AND GRAMMATICAL ERRORS AND NOT TO PRINT LEWD OR LIBELOUS LETTERS. LETTERS MUST BE RECEIVED ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE NEWSPAPER’S PUBLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED FOR INCLUSION.

We are losing confidence in ‘better together’ EDITORIAL TELESCOPE STAFF

Over the past year, The Telescope team has witnessed a rise of unrest within the campus community.

The hopes of reaching “Better Together” has turned into a loss of trust and division within the Palomar community.

Many have called for stronger and more honest leadership, and we have as well, but there has been a failure to meet requested standards on behalf of administration.

Campus community members have shared concerns and made repeated requests on situtations as small as changing a meeting room to situations as serious as hiring permanent custodial employees.

As a result of administrative nonresponsiveness, drastic measures have been taken to influence administration to listen and take action on these concerns.

Faculty unions have filed lawsuits against the district, classified employees have submitted formal complaints and recently, a poll was sent out to faculty members to determine the level of confidence that faculty members have in the future of President Joi Lin Blake’s leadership.

As students, we have recognized President Blake’s passion for supporting students through the establishment of fundamental learning programs, spearheading the establishment of satellite campuses, and advocating for essential studentfocused buildings.

We appreciate her passion and consideration in these matters, but we have noticed larger initiatives go without the require discussion for established shared governance policies.

At the Oct. 8 Governing Board meeting, we were disappointed when the majority of board trustees present voted against formal requests of the campus

unions.

We were filled with disappointment to witness Trustees John Halcón, Mark Evilsizer and Nancy Ann Hensch approve President Blake contract renewal, disregarding faculty voices once again.

It is extremely discouraging to witness this repeated pattern of approving policies that are harmful to the campus community.

When news of the vote to determine the confidence in President Blake’s leadership was announced, our staff was surprised.

We weren’t sure what had sparked the implementation of the petition at the time, but over the past few weeks we have heard from faculty members who have shared legitimate reasons for the call to action.

We are not sure what the results of the vote of confidence will reveal, but we will be waiting patiently to hear what faculty members have decided.

As a newsroom, we have

collectively agreed that we no longer have confidence that President Blake can lead Palomar into the “Better Together” utopia she advocates for unceasingly.

We also have no confidence that board trustees Hensch, Halcón and Evilsizer will change their habit of listening to concerns and then completely disregarding community voices.

We may respect your positions, but we certainly do not respect most of your decisions.

To faculty members: Take time and keep thinking these decisions through. We hope that the poll has not been rushed and seriously considered.

We appreciate the advocacy for the improvement of our college.

To Trustee Nina Deerfield: Thank you for voting in favor of faculty concerns at the Oct. 8 meeting. We appreciate your passion for this community, and it has not gone unnoticed.

To board trustees Hensch, Halcón and Evilsizer: Students are watching. We’re watching as you continue to disappoint the people who directly impact our education.

For those of us that have decided to pay attention, we know you all can do better. We are trusting all of you to be honest leaders.

To President Blake: Although your intentions at the start of your presidency may have been well intended, you have fallen short.

Promises upon promises of things to make our college a better place, and a better community and those promises have not been realized.

As a voice for the student population of our college, we want better, we want you to strive to reach those goals instead of letting them falter.

EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

There’s no need to inconveniently leave campus for food Haley Hardy STAFF WRITER Students at Palomar College need to stop leaving to get food between classes when they can very conveniently get their food right here on campus.

Many students choose to purchase food off-campus before or after school instead of supporting the businesses located on the college campus, where there is a good variety of fresh foods.

If you’re stuck all day on campus and feeling hungry or just hanging out with friends and want to grab a bite, there are some spots to eat on campus to check out. Keep in mind, some lines are longer than others so if you

want to eat on campus plan accordingly.

At the Comet Cafe Food Court you can pick up a sandwich at Subway, but you have to make sure you have time to spare, as this is a crowd favorite that is guaranteed to have a line if you come around lunch time.

Need to grab something quick? Get a slice of pizza at Bene Pizza- all you have to do is grab a plate, fill it with what you want, and pay for it in the check out line. If you’re not in the mood for pizza or Subway, the food court offers burgers and chicken at Grille Works or salads from Greens To Go. Just looking for a pick me up during your school day? Jamba Juice and Java City might be able

to provide you with what you need to carry on the day.

Java City has coffee ranging from hot to blended that will wake you up after a long night of studying. Jamba Juice will have the perfect smoothie to lighten your day. Both offer a variety of grab and go snacks to go with your beverage.

There’s usually a wait at these hot spots but the staff are fast and ready for your order.

By choosing to buy on campus, you’re not only supporting our school but the students who work there. If more students help support Palomar College’s food services, we might have the opportunity to get a bigger variety of choices on campus.

Jamba Juice is located in the student cafeteria, along with plenty of space to sit and eat. Lazaro Jimenez/The Telescope.

Next time you need food or a pick me up between classes try stopping by and seeing what Palomar

College has to offer before you leave campus.

HHARDY@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

THE TELESCOPE IS PUBLISHED 5 TIMES PER SEMESTER. OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THE NEWSPAPER ARE THOSE OF THE INDIVIDUAL WRITERS AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THOSE OF THE ENTIRE NEWSPAPER STAFF, THE EDITORIAL BOARD, PALOMAR FACULTY AND STAFF MEMBERS OR THE GOVERNING BOARD TRUSTEES.

ASSOCIATED COLLEGE PRESS

CALIFORNIA NEWSPAPER PUBLISHER’S ASSOCIATION

An assortment of pizzas to choose from at Bene Pizza, located in Palomar College’s food services building. Nadim Zureik/The Telescope.

Palomar College’s bookstore offers an array of snacks for those who need to hurry to their next class. Nadim Zureik/The Telescope.

6 • OPINION

October 21, 2019

In a world full of streaming services, here are our staff picks DC Universe Recommended by Jordan Spurgeon

Disney + is the new streaming service to add to your montly bank statement. Photo courtesy of Disney/TNS.

TELESCOPE STAFF

With Disney releasing their new streaming service on Nov. 12, people will be searching for a the best streaming service platform

to give their hard earned money in exchange for nightly entertainment. The Editors at The Telescope have put together a list of their top streaming services on the market today.

DC Universe is the comic book streaming service that allows subscribers to access DC comic books, animated shows and new exclusive TV shows.

The content on this streaming service reigns supreme because DC has full creative control on everything that is released. There are no ads, so it’s easy to binge your nights away.

DC Universe shows that are binge-worthy: “Titans,” “Doom Patrol,” “Young Justice,” “Batman: Hush,” and “Swamp Thing.” They offer a one week free trial, with an option of paying $7.99 a

month or $74.99 a year.

Hulu Recommended by Ana Acosta Hulu is the most convenient streaming service for college students. It has a wide variety of shows, movies and live sports. Although Hulu’s least expensive subscription has ad breaks, I have never found them inconvenient.

Hulu shows that are binge-worthy: “The Good Place,” “Single Parents” and “The Looming Tower.”

Students with valid identification can purchase both Spotify and Hulu for only $5.99 a month.

Amazon Prime Recommended by Krista Moore Amazon Prime is one of the best streaming services available because of its diverse selection movies and TV shows. In addition to the vast amount of TV shows and movies the platform also provides live streaming of a variety of sports including baseball, football and golf.

Amazon Prime shows that are binge-worthy: “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Jack Ryan” and “Sneaky Pete.”

In addition to the streaming, Prime also offers live sporting events like regular season baseball and football

games, making it one of the best services out there.

Netflix Recommended by Alex Garcia I recommend Netflix to students who need a good show to watch while eating some dinner or if they’re bored.

Netflix shows that are binge-worthy: “Shameless,” “Bad Blood,” “Scream” and “iZombie.”

These shows will keep you glued to your TV and wanting to find out what’s going to happen next.

EDITOR@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Donald Trump: the ‘greatest’ president of all time WHY I WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR CURRENT PRESIDENT Dre’as Sanchez STAFF WRITER

Donald Trump is the “greatest” president. At least greatest in my life; I’m just a millennial.

I know what you’re thinking though; you can’t just say Donald J. Trump is the greatest president three years into his appointed role to run the country.

You need some context, right? Well, let me break it down for you.

Trump has come a long way in the game of persuading people’s minds, ever since his placing of newspaper ads calling for the execution of five young black and Latino men accused of rape, who were later found innocent. “The Central Park 5” is an infamous documentary that was put on Netflix related to all of it.

In addition, Trump’s adamant conspiratorial

nagging about President Barack Obama “not being born in America,” otherwise known as the term creatively named “birtherism.”

By “greatest,” I mean having the most effect for the good on people. A recent study in a Reuters/ Ipsos polling of 4,436 U.S. adults in July revealed that “...people who rejected racial stereotypes were more interested in voting in the 2020 general election than those who expressed stronger levels of anti-black or anti-Hispanic biases.”

The report also showed that in 2016, this was the reverse. According to the report, “Trump’s narrow win came at a time when Americans with strong anti-black opinions were the more politically engaged group.”

The poll did not measure anti-Hispanic biases, but said that people who express those biases overlapped

with other groups who show biases against other racial minority groups.

“This year’s poll found that among Americans who feel that blacks and whites are equal…82% expressed a strong interest in voting in 2020.”

In other words, more people are paying attention to politics than ever before, but one might expect it from a reality TV star like Donald J. Trump running the show.

The congressional election in 2018 showed this as well.

That election saw the highest voter turnout since 1914, and the results were the most progressive members of congress the U.S. has ever seen.

The most women were elected to congress, the first Muslim woman was elected and the first openly gay governor and the first openly bisexual U.S. senator were elected.

I will confess I have never voted for a President before; I am 33 and a military veteran. I can say without a doubt, the people in my own life, including myself, are starting to feel like we absolutely have to vote.

Most of this change is due to President Trump and his actions so far while being the President of the United States. People are over it and want a change.

We all have to thank Trump for igniting a movement that is creating more concerned citizens. One can only imagine concerned citizens raising children that are concerned citizens as well.

Hopefully we have multiple generations to come of citizens who start caring about how our country is ran and where our taxpayer dollars are being spent.

Are you a concerned citizen or want to be one? The

Donald Trump speaking in Charlottesville, Virginia earlier this year. Courtesy of The Wrap.

first step is awareness- maybe find a podcast like “Political Gabfest” or “The Michael Brooks Show” to play in the car on your way to class.

The next step is to break the stereotype of “to taboo to talk about,” and start having more conversations

about how our government functions and where our tax payer money is being spent: locally and at the national level.

DSANCHEZ@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Photos by Kiana Teixeira

SPEAKOUT

How do you feel about overnight student parking?

“I think it would be helpful to have overnight parking, especially for athletes like me that have practice at six in the morning, and it gives the students that are homeless a place to sleep.”

“I think if overnight parking becomes an option for students, there should be two separate parking pass options. I definitely don’t think it’s safe, but if it’s the only option for students.”

“...It may not be the safest choice because Palomar is an open campus, so we will have to spend more money on security for student safety.”

“There should be two separate parking lots for over night parking to ensure student safety”

- Peter Higgs Kinesiology major

- Ela Hong Biology major

- Serah Rice Business Administration major

- Chat Rubiano Biology major

LIFESTYLE • 7

the-telescope.com

Snoozing on the job: tomorrow’s workplace Katy Lynn STAFF EDITOR

Almost every person learns at some point that they function better in daily activities when they have had a sufficient amount of sleep.

Workplaces and employers are starting to recognize the benefits of providing employees with a space to rest and take a nap in the workplace.

According to an article on Grasshopper Resources, a National Sleep Foundation study revealed an Photo illustration: Nap room/resting area for employees at a local annual $63 billion loss as business. Adel Bautista/The Telescope. a result of tired and burntout employees calling in Progressive social me- who need music or ambiand using their sick days. dia companies like Google ent sounds in order to fall Companies that have and Facebook have start- asleep. started to offer nap rooms ed to create and impleThese pods are perfor their employees have ment “nap pods” for their fect for people who need noticed an outstanding employees. a boost in the middle of a increase in productivity These “nap pods” are long workday. and revenue. an enclosed, sound-canIf these amenities reFurther, the article re- celing area designed for veal sigificant improvevealed that six percent comfortable sleep. ment in employee perof employers have estabThese spherical nap formance at work, there lished a space for an em- chambers are convenient, could be a possible chance ployee nap room in the and also have a built-in for them to improve stuworkplace. sound system for those dent performance at

‘WELL SEASONED’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Next up was “L’Automne” (Autumn) which celebrates everything the season has to offer. It was paired with a dance number choreographed by Dr. Molly Faulker and written by Alexander Glazunov.

Next was “Autumn in New York” a very famous Jazz piece by Vernon Duke followed by “Winter Carnival” which is about having fun and going out and playing in the snow.

This piece was composed by Hugh M. Stuart.

After the first couple pieces there was about a 15 minute break so that director Bell could take some time to speak with his audience about the show or to see if they had any questions for the featured composer.

After the break they

began with the piece “Outdoor Overture” by Aaron Copland which is not particularly about the change of seasons but about the outdoors in general.

After was “The Four Seasons” by Antonio Vivaldi, followed by an African Samba piece “Batucada” by Don Alfonso.

The performance included two Brazilian samba dancers that accompanied the music.

To end the night they performed “American Flourish,” a patriotic tune written by Robert W. Smith.

Each piece that was played was vibrant and well rounded and I would recommend the show to anyone if it was to return.

AGARCIA@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Photo illustration: Employers and companies have added nap room areas for employees at local businesses. Adel Bautista/The Telescope.

school as well.

According to Sleep.org, five universities in the United States now offer a nap room designated for their students, one being the University of Michigan.

Some offer rooms and

others offer “nap pods” located conveniently around the campus.

Palomar College student Jalia Lee said, “I think sleep pods are a great idea for our campus. I’ve heard that taking short naps throughout

the day helps to be alert, so having an area for tired students to rest would be perfect.”

KLYNN@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Spotlight: Upcoming movies to look forward to this fall Here is a list of new movies that will be arriving to a theater near you soon.

Alex Garcia STAFF EDITOR Black and Blue

Terminator: Dark Fate

Oct. 25

Nov. 1

An action packed thriler movie that features dirty cops and the justice in these crazy times. Naomie Harris stars as a rookie cop who comes across two corrupt police officers murdering a drug dealer and her body cam captures the event. The two cops make it their priority to find her and destory the footage. Will she survive or will they catch her?

This is the sixth film in the Terminator series. The difference with this movie compared to the others is that this is a direct sequel to Terminator 2: Judgement Day, begining the next day, the judgement day.

Another big thing to add is that the “original” Terminator Arnold Schwarzenegger reutns, as well as Linda Hamilton as the first Sarah Connor.

Midway

Charlie’s Angels

Frozen II

Nov. 8

Nov. 15

Nov. 22

Countdown Oct. 25 A psychological horror thriller, involving a killer application that claims it knows exactly when a person is going to die. A young nurse downloads the app and it says she has three days to live.

Can she race against time with her friends to find a way to overcome and beat the app?

An action packed movie about the iconic Battle of Midway during World War II known as “The Battle that Turned the War.” The battle lasted over three days in June of 1942, only six months after the Japaneese attacked Pearl Harbor. Who will win, us or them?

This is a fresh remake of the 2000’s action comedy based on the 1970s Television show with the same name. The movie is directed

by Elizabeth Banks, who also stars as one of the “Angels.” A young engineer blows the whistle on some dangerous technology and the “Angels” are called into action to save us. Will they be able to?

The highly anticipated sequel to the 2013 film Frozen The first movie was loved by not only the children, but also adults around the world. In this installment of the franchise, they venture into the “Enchanted Forest” where they learn of an ancient secret about their kingdom and the two sisters must work to solve the problem.

Will they?

8 • ARTS & CULTURE

October 21, 2019

Greta Van Fleet revels for one night only in San Diego

Greta Van Fleet performing at Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre as part of their March of the Peaceful Army tour on Sept. 29, 2019. Victoria Price/The Telescope.

Victoria Price STAFF EDITOR

Last month, American rock band Greta Van Fleet performed in San Diego as a part of their March of the Peaceful Army tour, bringing together fans young and old for a night under the stars.

The band, comprised of brothers Josh Kiszka (vocalist), Jake Kiszka (guitar), and Sam Kiszka (bass and keyboard), along with family friend Danny Wagner (drums), hail from small town Frankenmuth, Michigan.

Although the group has gartered negative attention from fans of classic rock, they can still sell out a show, and their fans are dedicated.

This was the second time the band had a San

Diego stop on their tour, playing at the Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre on San Diego State University’s campus, their first return after playing the Observatory in North Park last fall.

At 7 p.m. on Sept. 29, fans young and old entered the theatre, dressed head to toe in classic 70’s rock and roll fashion.

Pre-show music from artists such as Elton John, The Beatles and The Doors set the stage for a night from another decade.

Indie garage punk band Shannon and the Clams opened the show, giving fans a taste of a new and experimental genre while still putting on a fun and entertaining set.

At around 9 p.m., the house lights dimmed and smoke crept onto the sides

Bassist Sam Kiszka (front) and drummer Danny Wagner (back) performing at Five Point Amphitheatre in Irvine, Calif. on Sept.

30, 2019. Victoria Price/The Telescope.

of the stage, creating an aura of excitement with a hint of mystery.

In a surprising turn of events, the group took the stage and opened their set with their biggest hit, “When the Curtain Falls,” the roaring vocals of Josh Kiszka accompanied by the energetic guitar solos of Jake Kiszka.

The setlist followed any other average rock concert order- you start with the highs, put the lows in the middle, and end it on a high note to keep the crowd wanting more long after the show is over.

Although slower songs can sometimes be considered the “boring” part of the set, that isn’t the case with Greta Van Fleet.

The crowd is quiet, waiting in anticipation.

The stage goes dark, for

only a moment, until a single line shines down on twin brothers Josh and Jake, the latter swtiching out his electric guitar for an acoustic.

The soft tune rings through the theatre, as the brothers perform a cover of “The Music is You” by the iconic Bob Dylan, a complete but smooth transition from the loud and eccentric attitude of lead vocalist Josh.

The cover leads into their song “You’re the One,” as fans lit up the theatre with their phone flashlights.

Most artists talk to the crowd in between songs, and talk about the city they’re in or just how they’re feeling in general.

If you go to a GVF show without knowing anything about the band, don’t ex-

Lead singer Josh Kiszka performing at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV on Sept. 27, 2019. Victoria Price/The Telescope.

pect to leave with even just knowing the member’s names.

Instead of talking, the band chooses to fill their empty space with long, drawn out guitar solos (with transcendant keyboard solos by bassist Sam Kiszka and a heavy hitting drum solo by drummer Danny Wagner).

It’s something that may seem dull, and for some, maybe even boring, but their presence and attention to detail sends you on a spiritual journey, and truly takes you to another place and time.

The highly anticipated finale song was the six minute long (and even longer with additional intrumentals) “Lover, Leaver, Taker, Believer,” ending the concert on a high note.

It was easy to forget you

were on a college campus in the year 2019, but that’s the fun of it all.

To genuinely feel like you’re at some outdoor rock festival in the middle of nowehere in the 1970’s is an experience you can’t really find in a live music setting today.

If you allow yourself to forget the world of today, it’s a true immersion in a world so foreign to people born after the golden era of rock and roll.

Although Greta Van Fleet does receive negative attention from old classic rock fans, their live sets are incomporable to the acts of some of today’s modern artists.

VPRICE@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Guitarist Jake Kiszka performing at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV on Sept. 27, 2019. Victoria Price/The Telescope.

ARTS & CULTURE • 9

the-telescope.com

New rap star crowns himself the ‘king of the babies’ Enrique DeLeon STAFF WRITER

In the hip-hop community, shooting lyrics offbeat is widely known to be odd and sometimes cringworthy.

But for one hip-hop artist, his flow overcomes that, making it unique compared to most rap artists being known as charlottesville overnight sensation.

Rolling Stones Magazine has named DaBaby as the “King of the Babies” after releasing his latest album “KIRK,”named after his father who passed away the same day he was told his song “Suge” went platinum.

In the album he starts off with “INTRO,” express-

ing his thoughts between the two conflicts of his father’s passing and reaching fame the same year.

It’s the only time in the album where DaBaby isn’t rapping about sex, fame, and glory, making it the most impactful song.

Though he is a hip hop rap artist, DaBaby goes along the lines to say “I’m not rapping, I’m preaching,” during his intro.

DaBaby goes even further with the idea of preaching with “GOSPEL”, featuring Chance the Rapper, Gucci Mane, and YK Osiris giving a “Sunday morning service” feeling with a rhythm and blues piano beat.

The most popular song on the album is “POP STAR” featuring Kevin

Up and coming rapper DaBaby. Courtesy of Mctcampus.

Gates, telling his experience as a pop star who still lives life on the edge with lavish cars and women; screaming “f**k the police” with his significant sound word “Vroom!” heard through the rest of the album.

“KIRK” is coming off as one of the greatest albums to end the summer, but still DaBaby has his flaws

starting with flow.

Yes, he has a very unique flow that almost sounds old school, but never changes. It’s as though the song adapts to him.

But how long before people get tired of the same flow with no change of style?

Without the change, he will likely fade into the mainstream and sound

like every other rapper.

Secondly, his music is more geared toward hip-hop but features rappers that are often seen as “trap” artists, such as Migos heard in “RAW SHIT.” The album gets confusing with the sounds of hiphop in the beginning and “Trap” style toward the end, sounding like something you would play at

a house party. But not so much for a club.

Overall, DaBaby has came out from XXL Freshman year as the hottest artist of 2019. “KIRK” gives a taste of what it’s like to live a life between the love of family and the love of fame and fortune at the age of 27.

ELEON@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

(Left) Official cover for FIFA 20 with Cristiano Ronaldo. (Right) Gameplay demonstrating the new ball physics in the game. Courtesy of Electronic Arts Photos /Mctcampus.

FIFA 20 revamps gameplay and enhances fan experience Kyle Dyer STAFF WRITER

The latest edition of the video soccer game FIFA 20 came out last month to mixed reviews.

There’s a lot of good elements to the game, such as ball physics and better ball control, but other updates like new modes have upset some hardcore fans.

FIFA’s biggest problemlast year was the ball physics, which led to a lack of response when the player made a ground pass from

one player to the next.

This new version has fixed that so the new player responds.

The best thing about FIFA 20 is one of their most successful game modes called Ultimate team where gamers can spend money on big-time players such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala, and many more.

If you don’t want to spend the money, this version is still a drag to get good players. Once you get

there, Ultimate team is a great mode for players to play online with friends.

Over the past three years, FIFA has had an exciting story mode called “The Journey” where you play as a character named Alex Hunter, going from playing on a team in the Premier League to playing in the Champions League final with the pro soccer team Real Madrid.

This year the game replaced “The Journey” with a new story mode called “Volta,” which is basically

a mini version of an older video game called FIFA Street.

In the “Volta” mode, you create a player and start off by playing a group of random characters in a street competition.

Then you join with players you competed against at the start of the game and play more street soccer.

“The Journey” was a good mode and a lot of gamers were disappointed by the replacement “Volta” mode because you don’t get

to play field soccer. Many fans don’t want to go back to street soccer and would have preferred to stay on “The Journey.”

The biggest change that didn’t make it into this version that players were looking for on the career mode was more real lifelike PES (Pro Evolution Soccer).

PES has more cutscenes such as when you play as manager at a press conference and interacting with players in conversations.

FIFA did manage to add the press conference scene

but didn’t do much else.

They promised more cutscenes such as players getting off the bus for pregame and post-game interview, and didn’t deliver.

That made gamers unhappy because they want more of a real-life feel.

Overall, the game seems good from most reviews.

Forbes rated it 8 out of 10. If they make more upgrades either for FIFA 20 or FIFA 21 then gamers would be impressed.

KDYER@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

10 • ARTS & CULTURE

October 21, 2019

Drama, not comedy: a review of the new ‘Joker’ film Sebastian Venegas STAFF WRITER

Joaquin Phoenix always goes above and beyond in his roles and “Joker” is no exception.

When watching “Joker” you don’t see an actor, you see the embodiment of the psycho killer that is the notorious comic book villain Joker.

The plot isn’t too concerned with changing up the classic three-act story structure or even delivering a mind blowing plot twist.

This is not that kind of movie. It’s a small scale story that takes a close look at Arthur Fleck and his descent into madness.

Although many moviegoers might be expecting an over-the-top comic book movie.

Once again, this isn’t it, this is a Batman-flavored crime drama.

Many see this movie as a “diet Taxi Driver” and for good reason.

Director Todd Philips definitely took a lot of in-

Joaquin Phoenix stars as the titular character in “Joker.” Photo courtesy of Niko Tavernise/Warner Bros. Pictures.

spiration from the classic film by Martin Scorsese, a director that has never held back in making a movie about the disturbing nature of morally corrupt people.

It makes for entertaining cinema.

This movie is in a way a love letter to those ‘70s and ‘80s crime films.

Movies like “Drive” or “Nightcrawler” are also in the same vain and joker is

a great new addition.

The movie even goes as far as casting Robert De Niro, who starred in many early Scorsese films like “Taxi Driver” and “King of Comedy,” two films that were used as thematic and visual inspiration for “Joker.”

This movie has very mature themes and impactful graphic scenes, earning it an R rating, and it really

shows.

Unlike most comic book movies, “Joker” has a bit more of an artful approach, so it feels like a real movie.

The film is complemented by not only a great and disturbing sounding score but also a very ‘70s inspired soundtrack that adds to the overall atmosphere.

We also see Gotham portrayed in a vastly different way than we have seen

before. This Gotham is definitely based on the crime filled streets of 1970s New York, the perfect setting for a villain film.

The bright colors and dark tones and colors that also help sell the grimy run down aesthetic of the movie.

Something that is much needed in this age where every, if not most, movies are super polished, high

definition, and flat looking because of it.

Although the film is a slow burn up close character study, the last act is what everyone enjoys the most.

This rendition of the “Joker” is unlike anything we have seen before.

He dawns a burgundy red suit and a smart, intimidating, unhinged, and flamboyant personality.

One of the most important things is that “Joker” reminded a general audience that good movies do not have to be big budget blockbuster film with highly computer edited filled spectacles.

Instead, stylistic and grounded movies driven by characters and great performances are ideal.

The reviews are split.

Many people are either loving or hating the film.

Despite many people and critics saying the film was cliche, the music and cinematography in addition to Joaquin Phoenix’s performance really do make it a movie worth watching.

SVENEGAS@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

‘Hustlers’: not just another stripper movie Haley Hardy STAFF WRITER

Some people hear “Hustlers” and think, “Another stripper movie?” However, it is a pleasant shock that the movie is much more than stripping.

It’s also based on a true story, which makes for a more interesting plot line.

While stripping is a main focus in the film, it is also about a woman’s struggle for independence, dealing with single parenthood, friendship, loyalty and abandonment.

It has been a long time since I have seen a movie where the women are not pitted against each other, and sisterhood and friendship is really what this movie is truly about.

Actress Constance Wu plays Destiny, a young stripper struggling to support herself and her family, who seeks guidance from the older more experienced stripper Ramona, played by Jennifer Lopez.

Other well-known stars in the film are Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer, Lili Reinhart, Lizzo and Cardi B. The movie starts off glamorously, with more than enough money to go around in the main strip club, but that all changes when the 2008 recession hits.

Destiny realizes that she can no longer make enough money to support herself and her family while working as a stripper at the club.

After reuniting with Ramona and her crew, they find a new way to bring money to the club working together.

Although their choices could be seen as unwise and are also illegal, the women work together as a unit to get the money they need for their families.

The love and support the women show throughout the movie for each other is refreshing in a society that likes to act like all women are on their own teams.

Here a team of women work together and even when they make mistakes and show poor judgment they end up valuing their friendship more than the money.

“Hustlers” is the perfect girls night movie and worth the watch. I give this movie a 5/5 for being fun and touching.

Be sure to grab a ticket and some popcorn with your friends while this hit is still in theaters.

HHARDY@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Official movie poster for movie “Hustlers.” Courtesy of STX Entertainment/Mctcampus.

SPORTS • 11

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DYNAMIC DUO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“We almost have an unspoken bond, they always know where the ball is going to be when I’m throwing to them.”

-Rodney Thompson Palomar College Quarterback

Palomar Football’s wide receiver Kyran Griffin laughing after practice.

Kevin Mijares/The Telescope.

“It’s definitely competetive but it’s not to the point where it’s aggressive, Armentrout said, “If I’m not open I’m going to get you [Griffin] open.”

Both have high praise for each others’ skill sets.

They understand how they play well together. “Johnny is a shifty guy. The way he gets open and makes his cuts is amazing,” Griffin said.

Griffin may be taller but Armentrout knows that Griffin can be just as shifty.

Armentrout said, “He’s fast, he’s got good routes and he’s got exceptional hands. He knows how to get open.”

The competition between the two and their ability to get open have helped quarterback Rod-

ney Thompson find more success in the passing game this season.

When they’re on offense together they have an unspoken bond that helps them make big plays.

“They’re just very versatile guys and very reliable,” Thompson said.

Griffin and Thompson clicked over the offseason.

They hang out in their free time with other guys on the team as well.

“He’s very mature and funny, he’s just fun to be around,” Thompson said, “He’s always smiling and laughing. He brightens up the room.”

As one of the older guys on the team, Griffin knows he’s expected to be a leader. He wasn’t sure what that would look like,

NBA SEASON PREVIEW Alex Garcia STAFF EDITOR

We are just days away until the start of the highly anticipated NBA season, and here’s some of the things that you should know.

Over 40 percent of the players in the league were free agents this offseason. Many of them were expected to leave their teams.

And they did just that.

Many big name superstars such as Anthony Davis, Kawaii Leonard, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving decided to leave their teams and go and join a new one.

For years now, the league was filled with two super teams known as the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers, who dominated their respective conferences and battled it out in the NBA championship for four straight years.

Now there is more parody in the league. Most teams in the league now have two superstar names like the Brooklyn Nets, who are led by Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, and the Los Angeles Lakers who are led by Lebron James and Anthony Davis,

instead of few of the teams having all the star players.

It is the first year in a long time that the Golden State Warriors are not predicted to win the NBA championship. Especially, after that the Warriors lost the NBA championship to the Toronto Raptors led by the leadership of their newly acquired superstar Kawaii Leonard last year.

After previously winning the two years before, they will be coming with a vengeance to capture the title.

The new champions, however, lost superstar Kawaii Leonard to free agency after he decided to leave the team after helping them capture a championship and defeat the superteam of the Warriors, following the devastating injury to Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, and join the Los Angeles Clippers. But he did not go alone, he got fellow friend and teammate Paul George to join him to create a powerful duo.

There was also the electrifying draft class of rookies who had decided to leave college and move on to the NBA. One of those big names was Zion Willamson.

When Williamson declared for the draft, it was

expected that every team was going to be fighting for that number one pick so that they could be the ones to draft him. The New Orleans Pelicans were the lucky ones who got the first pick and took him number one in the 2019 NBA draft.

Other big names include Ja Morant, who went to the Memphis Grizzlies, R.J. Barret who went to the New York Knicks, De’andre Hunter who went to the Atlanta Hawks, and Cam Reddish who also joined the Hawks.

Las Vegas currently has the Los Angeles Clippers as the favorites with a 3-1 chance to win the NBA championship.

Second, is the Milwaukee Bucks who have the odds of 4-1, and finally the third is the Los Angeles Lakers whose odds are 6-1.

The NBA offseason was one to remember with all the superstar shake ups and teams receiving their newly acquired draft picks.

How will the new superstar duos and new draftees play? Will they be what everyone was expecting or will they be a let down?

Make sure to tune in.

AGARCIA@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

but the high maturity level of others on the team has made it easier and more enjoyable.

“Every good leader is a great follower,” Griffin said.

When Armentrout isn’t at school or football, he likes to go to Stampede in Temecula to get his country on. His favorite movie is Animal House and his favorite NFL team is the Dallas Cowboys.

Griffin enjoys spending time with his four-yearold son, Karo, and hanging with his teammates off the field. His favorite movie right now is Madagascar and roots for his hometown team the New Orleans Saints.

Palomar Football’s wide receiver Johnny ArmenJSPURGEON@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

trout smiling after practice.

Kevin Mijares/The Telescope.

NHL SEASON PREVIEW Kyle Dyer STAFF WRITER

Intensity, excitement, cutthroat, three words that accurately describe the NHL. Another season of hockey is upon us.

In the Western Conference, the biggest team to be the contender for the Stanley Cup would be the reigning champion St. Louis Blues. They finally got their first cup in franchise history by beating the Boston Bruins in game seven last year.

Most of their core is back, including the winner of the Conn Smyth Trophy, Ryan O’ Reilly.

He was their leading goal scorer during the playoffs. Jordan Binnington was the main piece of last year. If he can keep that form like he did in the postseason, the Blues could go back and defend their title.

Another contender is the Vegas Golden Knights. Last year they lost to the San Jose Sharks in the first round of the playoffs. They still have some good players, like forwards Max Pacioretty, Jonathon Marchessault and William Karlsson. With the majority of the core still in Vegas,

they could look to be cup contenders again.

The final team from the west that could be a contender is the Colorado Avalanche. They made a good run last year during the postseason, but lost in the semis to the San Jose Sharks.

What will help them is their youth, with players like Nathan Mckinnon and Mikko Rantenen leading the forward first line.

The goaltending is different now that Semyon Varlamov is with the New York Islanders. They will have to rely on Pavel Francuoz, who was good as a back up goaltender.

From the Western Conference now to the Eastern Conference, the first team that should be mentioned as contender for Lord Stanley is the New York Rangers. They made the biggest move during free agency by signing the “bread man” Artemi Panarin, who was a free agent after last season for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

His contract is seven years long with 11.5 million dollars per year and a no-movement clause.

Another thing that would help them is youth, in

particular Kappo Kako.

He’s only 18 but has talent, so like Colorado what New York needs to rely on is youth. Even though last year they finished 12th in the East, the time for them to strike is now.

The second team from the East is the Carolina Hurricanes. Last year they got to the conference finals but lost to the Boston Bruins.

What is going to help them is goaltending.

Last year, Peter Mrazek seemed to be a good fit and they picked up James Reimer from the Florida Panthers who could be good as back up.

The final team from the east is the Tampa Bay Lightning. Last year was a disaster for them because they were the first Presidents’ Trophy winner to be swept in the first round, losing to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The Lightning still have some of their key players, but they’re in a tight cap situation and might get rid of some of these athletes next season. This means it’s their last chance to win the cup.

KDYER@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

12 • SPORTS

October, 21, 2019

Top left: Kyran Griffin makes the mid air catch for Palomar. Sept. 29, 2019. Lizaro Jimenez/The Telescope.

Bottom left: Palomar Women’s Water Polo goalie Julia Miller makes a stop during Palomar’s match against San Diego Mesa College. Kevin Mijares/The Telescope.

Middle Top: Palomar Women’s Volleyball player Carsyn Emerson pushes the ball over the net during Palomar’s match against Southwestern College. Kevin Mijares/ The Telescope.

Middle bottom: Christian Bahena dances around a Cuyamaca defender. The Palomar College Men’s Soccer Team tied Cuyamaca College 1-1 on Oct. 4, 2019.

Benjamin King/The Telescope.

Top right: Palomar’s Alyssa Jackson challenges a Mesa defender early in the first half. Palomar College Women’s Soccer lost to Mesa College 8-0 on Oct. 4, 2019.

Benjamin King/The Telescope.

Bottom right: Kevin McCollum looks to score a goal in the men’s water polo team’s game against Mesa College. Photo Courtesy of Hugh Cox.

Arturo Soltero: living life on and off the field Nicholas Casadona STAFF WRITER

A modest mindset has brought one young man to the front and center of Palomar’s soccer team.

Arturo Soltero has been playing soccer since he could remember, and now at the age of 20 he still is seeking the big moments he has always dreamed of. Wearing #9 for the first time ever, Soltero has earned this often soccer superstar’s number.

Scoring seven goals so far this season for the Comets, along with five assists, Soltero is second in the PCAC with 19 total points.

The Comets have a record of 5-3-4, which is already a better record than last year.

Soltero was born in Commerce, Calif. and moved to Escondido when he was five years old. Two years later, he was driven to the field, starting in his first ever organized league.

Soltero’s close friend at the time, Kevin G. convinced him to play soccer, probably seeing what many see today, a star in the making.

Soltero transferred to Palomar College last year from Taft College, a public community college located north of Los Angeles. “I didn’t have the right mentality at Taft, even my overall fitness was poor but now I do. I had to make a change for myself,” Soltero said.

Since the summer tryouts of this year, Soltero has seen the potential of his squad here at Palomar.

He hoped for a chance to win the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference and the team has done just that.

He said, “We have had amazing chemistry this year, all the way from the start of summer. I believe in this team. I want to win, and I think we can.”

One of the most prolific athletes in history is Lionel Messi. A soccer phenom of Argentinian descent and Soltero’s favorite player also often has a quiet leadership on and off the pitch.

When talking to Soltero’s coach, David Linenberg, about this same thing, he had this to say, “Arturo is a leader among the team. Just like Messi, Soltero does so by example. Players have respect

for what he can do on the field. He is gifted and this game seems to come easy to him.”

Things have not always been easy for Soltero.

Switching schools to even deteriorating injuries, Soltero has had his setbacks. His senior year, in a very crucial time of his life, he broke his arm. This forced him to stop playing for almost the whole season. Soltero knew how important these games were and said, “That injury brought me to tears.

It was hard, I didn’t know if I’d get the chance to play again.”

Off the field, Soltero really enjoys listening to Trippie Redd’s music and spending his time with friends. Often, Soltero goes to the beach in Carlsbad to swim but only when he doesn’t have homework to do. His favorite thing to do though is play Fifa 20 on his Xbox One, often playing as his favorite player’s team, FC Barcelona. Whether its real life, or a video game, Soltero is always playing soccer.

NCASADONA@THE-TELESCOPE.COM

Soltero pictured on Oct. 9, 2019. Lazaro Jimenez/Telescope.