Volume 24, Issue 7 (November 12, 2013) by The Breeze Paper

Volume 24. Issue 7

November 12, 2013

The Veterans Resource Center:

www.thebreezeonline.com

Three years of guiding veterans’ success

MICHELLE MENES

After being resinstated, ASCC President Kevin Coduto leads his first weekly meeting on Nov. 4 in MACC-208.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY JAKE BAYLOR

NANCY YEANG Since opening on Veterans Day in 2010, the Veterans Resource Center provides an array of services for about 400 veteran students. In just its third year, Chaffey College is listed as one of the top 20 percent of military-friendly colleges in the nation, according to G.I. Jobs. The center was formed to increase the number of veteran students to pursue an educational path, and to also provide more support and services to student veterans. The VRC has a full-time counselor, assists with Veteran Affairs communications, and provides a motivational and relaxing environment for students to study and socialize. “Transition from the military to college can be very daunting,” political science major Guillermo Lopez said. “You come to the Veterans Center and they make it easier.” Lopez completed his services with the Coast Guard last month and went to the VRC to help him continue his education. “It is a big task to transition out of the military,” Lopez said. “You stop getting paid. You stop getting life insurance

and health insurance. Then, you add on to that a college degree. If you’re moving from where you’re stationed back to your hometown, it’s like another add-on. The Veteran’s Resource Center gives you more support on what you have to do and take care of.” According to Lopez, the VRC digests the technical information and paperwork from the VA to help veterans understand the rules and regulations. The center also smooths out the process for veterans looking to have full advantage of their duty benefits while being a student. Fellow veteran student assistants are available to provide more personal guidance for completing degree plans. Criminal justice major and former Marine Thomas Troutman attended school before the VRC was available. “Trying to get things done was kind of a pain,” Troutman said. “If I had a question, I would have to go to one of the counselors, and if they didn’t know, I’d have to call the VA. I’d call the VA, and they’d say to talk to the counselors. Once this place started, it was good because it was one central location and then everyone would be able to get stuff done.” There were also a few misconceptions

that kinesiology major and former Army soldier Sam Wies wanted to clear about the VRC. “We are not a recruitment center,” Wies said. “Some people come in here and look timid and scared, like when family members come to collect service benefits.” To many of the veterans, the VRC provides a good environment for a melting pot of the armed forces. Through their services in different fields, they are still able to connect and maintain their camaraderie and brotherhood that formed most of their everyday life before becoming a student. “We’re like a family because we’re all veterans,” pharmacy technician major and former Army soldier Tyke Johnson said. “We stick together.” The total number of veterans or dependents using GI Bill education benefits: 2008 — 541,439 2009 — 564,487 2010 — 800,369 2011 — 923,836 2012 — 945,052 Source: U.S. Veterans Administration

Soundless Inspiration GLORY PIÑA

Trying to find direction in a world full of scandalous pop stars and news that seems to give more questions than answers is hard for any student. Angel Carranza is deaf. Despite his condition, he has dedicated himself to being an

No. 1 Panther football team can’t be stopped. Page 8

inspiration to all students. It only took the graphic design major two years to transfer, and he will soon graduate with a 3.4 GPA.

see INSPIRATION page 4

ASCC President reinstated RYAN GELUZ

Less than a week after the student body president was removed from office, Kevin Coduto was reinstated as ASCC President/ Student Trustee. Associate Superintendent Sherrie Guerrero released a memorandum on Oct. 25 stating that the ASCC governing body was indeed subject to the Brown Act, and all the closed sessions held by the council over the course of the school year were in violation of the act. While this finding restored Coduto to office, it simultaneously nullified the appointment of several ASCC senators, as well as former Vice President Carlotta Bohon. “The District has also been informed that the Campus Council attempted to remove Mr. Coduto from his position as President/Student Trustee in a closed session meeting on October 21, 2013,” the statement said. “The District cannot recognize the Executive Board or the Campus Council’s actions with regard to Mr. Coduto at this time.” Coduto was removed from office by a majority two-thirds vote by the ASCC on Oct. 21 in a session later determined to be illegal. According to an official statement released by the student government on Oct. 21, Coduto was in violation of Article III of the ASCC Constitutional bylaws – failing to act with integrity and allowing his personal views to be confused with that of the ASCC, among other possible allegations described in the article. The ASCC held an informal meeting on Oct. 28, publicly announcing Coduto’s reinstatement, as well as other actions reversed.

see ASCC page 3

News - Sexual assault suspect caught.

Page 3

/chaffeybreeze

Features - Hot sauce in hot water.

Page 5

@chaffeybreeze

Reviews - ‘The Counselor’ disappoints.

Page 6

/chaffeybreeze

Opinion - Drones shooting from sky.

Page 7

@chaffeybreeze

2 | Interest

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

JANET TRENIER

A display in the “Immortalized: A Tribute to los Muertos” exhibition, which will be in the CAA Student Gallery until Dec. 6.

November 12-17

November 18-24

Other Events

Tuesday, November 12 Veterans Day Event

Monday, November 18 Screening: “From Dog Tags to Textbooks” Featuring Chaffey veterans. Discussion after. 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Wignall

Thursday, November 14 Campus Explosion Concert

Hosted by the Christian Club. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Sports Center Yard

Wednesday, November 13 Peace, Love, & Vietnam: Two Vietnam-Era Veterans Speak

Monday, November 18 Screening: “Plastic Planet” (2009)

Saturday, November 16 Middle/High School Robotics Expo

Honor veterans at this recognition event. 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wignall

Ask questions of veterans. 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wignall

Thursday, November 14 Screening: “The Invisible War” (2012) OBOC hosts. Discussion after. 4 to 7 p.m. at the Wignall

Friday, November 15 Screening: “Platoon” (1986) OBOC hosts. Discussion after. 4 to 7 p.m. at the Wignall

Saturday, November 16 Games Day at the Wig

Documentary explores plastic’s impact. 12:30 to 2 p.m. in CAA-211

Wednesday, November 20 Food Pantry

Free food for students in need. Bring registration receipt. 1 to 3 p.m. at the Chino campus

Thursday, November 21 Coffee Night

Free coffee and discussion with ASCC members & clubs. 5 to 7 p.m. in the CAA Lobby

Friday, November 22 Artists Talk with Ehren Tool

Games will be played and discussed. Noon to 4 p.m. at the Wignall

Artist discusses studio practice and its relationship to experiences as a soldier. Veterans are encouraged to share stories at this event. Noon to 2 p.m. at the Wignall

ASCC

Crime Log

The ASCC student council has approved funds for the 2013 Night with Santa event. Applications are now being accepted at the Student Activities office and at the Chino and Fontana campuses.

Oct. 24 — Grand Theft Auto Oct. 28 — Defraud Innkeeper: $400 or less Oct. 29 — Vandalism: $400 or more Oct. 29 — Petty Theft: Bldg./Vehicle/etc. Nov. 1 — Petty Theft: Bldg./Vehicle/etc. Nov. 5 — Theft: Lost Property Nov. 6 — On Campus: No Consent

The Food Pantry provides food for current students in need. The motivation of Student Activities is based on a compassionate hand out and hand up as the dignity of each student served is respected. In order for Chaffey’s student government to accurately represent students, ASCC requires all members to be current Chaffey students with at least 6 completed units.

Free, interactive robotics experience for students and parents. Register at www.chaffeyrobotics.eventbrite.com. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sicosky Gym

November 19-20 International Education Week

The cultures of the world are celebrated. Nov. 19 — Noon to 1 p.m. at Student Activities Nov. 20 — 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Student Activities.

Tuesday, November 19 Censorship & the Arts

Professionals share experiences with censorship. 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wignall

Wednesday, November 20 The College Book in My Own Words

Students share writing inspired by the college book. 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Wignall

Member: Journalism Association of Community Colleges Editor-In-Chief Valeen Gonzales (909) 652-6934 thebreeze@chaffey.edu Managing Editor

Interest Editors

Design Editor

Andrew Coons

Danna Fakhoury Jake Baylor

News Editor

Kim Gonzales Genesis Zamora

Layout Manager Robert Ortiz

Copy Editor Baseline Magazine Editor

Reviews/Video Editor

Julie Cosgrove Visit the online magazine at; www.thebaselinemagazine. com

A&E/Photo Editor

Adviser

Co-Photo Editor

Journalism Coordinator

Jocabeth Salvador

Features Editor

The Breeze has received multiple reports of newspapers being stolen in large quantities from newsstands around campus. In addition to being unethical, it is also against the law. Witnesses to this crime are urged to contact The Breeze or Campus Police. Read more about it at www.splc.org/knowyourrights/law_library.asp?id=41

Member: California Newspaper Publisher’s Association

Janet Trenier

Hanajun Chung

Kimberly Johnson Michelle Menes

Doug Walsh

Neil Watkins

Staff Writers & Photographers

Jay Adamson, Gloria Arguinzoni, Dulce Balandran, CJ Caldwell, Eric Chavarria, Dominic Galvin, Eric Garcia, Ryan Geluz, Christopher Haidl, Manar Hijaz, Calvin Huang, Desiree Hallstrom, Mashayla Kizzee, Toinyetta LeSure, Erica Lmuth, Andrew Marquez, Kirk McConnell, Glory Pina, Olivia Rodriguez, Anthony Santiesteban, Melarie Solorio, Scott Stone, Nicholas Tito, Virginia Tuitavake, Michelle Weaver, Sean Urciuoli, Nancy Yeang

The Breeze is published up to eight times a semester by the journalism students and members of the Associated Press Club at Chaffey College, 5885 Haven Ave., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737. Telephone: 652-6934/6936. Opinions expressed in this publication are the responsibility of the student newspaper staff and should not be interpreted as the position of the Chaffey College District, the college or any officer or employee thereof. Letters and guest columns for or against any position are welcome. Letters should be kept as brief as possible (fewer than 300 words) and are subject to non-substantive editing according to guidelines established by the Associated Press. The Chaffey Breeze is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges, the California Newspaper Publishers Association and the Associated Press Club.

Campus News | 3

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

Closed sessions nixed, Coduto back in office

ASCC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

MICHELLE MENES

NHRA champion Antron Brown passes out hats during a discussion hosted by the Auto Tech program on Nov. 6.

Racecar driver inspires students Just hours before the start of the qualifying rounds for the 2013 Auto Club NHRA Finals, NHRA World Top Fuel Dragster Champion Antron Brown visited the Rancho Cucamonga campus. “Fifteen years ago, I was in the exact same place that they are,” Brown said. “Glad to see these kids out here today.” The 41-time NHRA winner spoke to vocational students about education and career planning in three separate discussions on Nov. 6 in ATL-115. “I thought it was true what he said,” automotive major Diego Trejo said. “To be successful, you’ve got to go after your dreams.” Brown’s visit to Chaffey College was

the last of seven vocational school visits this year as part of Matco’s TechEd program. Brown’s experiences as a community college student at Mercer Community College in New Jersey made his speeches especially relevant and relatable to the room full of students, faculty and staff. “It’s great to see all these kids out here have an interest in what I do and this profession,” Brown said. “I’m here to inspire these kids and get them interested in racing, but also to give them life lessons to help them get where they want to be in life.” -Andrew Marquez & Valeen Gonzales

Brown is the first African-American to win an NHRA world championship and major U.S. auto racing championship title. He holds the national elapsed time record with a 3.701-second pass at 328.78 mph.

14 FINANCIAL AID W E B I N A R THURSDAY, NOVEMBER

During the webinar you can:

• Learn how to access federal & state financial aid options and scholarships • Get answers and assistance from financial aid professionals • Receive a comprehensive Financial Aid Guide for attending • Application fee will be waived for attendees

PROMISE YOURSELF SUCCESS Thursday, November 14 at 5:30 p.m.

“This was the first time in my 22-year tenure that removal was sought,” Director of Student Activities Susan Stewart said. Stewart described the situation as a “learning experience” for everyone involved. Coduto described the preceding events as “one step back, two steps forward.” He also accepted responsibility for the recent turn of events. “I would like to publicly apologize for what’s going on,” Coduto said. “As president, when good things happen or when bad things happen, I do take the blame for that.” Though ASCC Adviser John Machado and the Campus Council initially defended their allegations against Coduto, no public action has been taken to remove the reinstated president in open session. “At this time, there are no allegations [against Coduto],” Senator Corey Stevens said. “There is no investigation.” Machado declined to elaborate on the matter. “It’s a small challenge because I’m only president on a technicality, and that makes it difficult for us as a group,” Coduto said. “I would encourage that if the ASCC feels I must be removed from presidency, that they act on it within the next month.” While no official allegations have been made against Coduto in formal session, in a public forum posted on Coduto’s Facebook page, Senator Stevens appeared to accuse Coduto of admittedly regretting his decision to endorse governing board candidate Zafar Inam. Coduto denied this. “You lie like a rug,” Stevens wrote. Coduto called the accusations false, but commented further. “I’m a bit confused, because whenever I’m with Corey [in person] we seem to be on good terms,” Coduto said. “I’m not sure how to address that.” In a statement reported by the San Bernardino Sentinel on Oct. 25, Coduto called Superintendent Henry Shannon’s statements against him “hypocritical” for attacking Coduto’s engagement in political activity, while he “has himself made financial contributions to the college board members.”

Public records show that Shannon made a financial contribution to a campaign to elect governing board member Katie Roberts in August 2009. In statements made to the Daily Bulletin, Roberts and Governing Board President Kathleen Brugger denied any involvement in the recent events involving the ASCC. “I wasn’t a part of any of that,” Brugger said. “I have no comment on that at all.” Roberts also declined involvement. “As far as them blaming the administration and the governing board for starting it, we had nothing to do with it,” Roberts said. On Oct. 7, Superintendent Shannon commented publicly that governing board members called him regarding Coduto’s telephone endorsement of Inam. “I’m disappointed with the reaction from President Brugger when she said it’s not an issue with the board, especially since it involves the student trustee, who is a board member,” Coduto said. “I still do feel the board put pressure on Dr. Shannon to take action on the case. I fully believe that the board was fully aware of what was going on.” Philosophy Club President Patrick Jimenez demanded action be taken to remedy the Brown Act violation. “As a concerned student, I feel that the entire student body is being ignored and shunned by its own elected and appointed representatives in the ASCC,” Jimenez said. “The ASCC’s fear of scrutiny has prevented us from achieving the clarity on this very important issue that we deserve.” “This will not keep us from insisting that we have the right to know and that we will continue to insist that Kevin Coduto remain our President and that John Machado steps down as the ASCC Advisor,” he said. Though she did not have a direct response to the student directive, Stewart apologized for the Brown Act violation. “We are working to correct this,” Stewart said. “Everything will be done in open session.” Stewart is focused on moving forward. “Let’s fix it. Let’s do it right. Let’s learn from it,” she said. Meanwhile, Coduto also expressed eagerness to return to serving students. “I’m sick of the bullshit,”Coduto said. “I want to get back to work.”

Thanksgiving Food Pantry distributions Student Activities and the ASCC will be co-sponsoring the Food Pantry on each of the Chaffey campuses in November. Lowincome students will have the opportunity to receive a full bag of grocery essentials. Student Activities is accepting donations of new non-perishable food items and grocery store gift cards until Nov. 14 at the Student Activities office. Food Pantry Dates by Campus: Fontana: Nov. 19 Chino: Nov. 20 Rancho Cucamonga: Nov. 21

For those interested in donating to help students in need, the following items are needed: Canned chicken breast, canned tuna, spaghetti/marinara sauce, cereal, canned fruit, soup (larger cans), macaroni and cheese, oatmeal packets, spaghetti noodles, tomato sauce, canned vegetables, beans, peanut butter and Stater Brothers or Trader Joe’s recyclable bags. The Food Pantry will also accept: Hygiene items such as toothpaste, deodorant, soap and toilet paper

Sexual assault suspect arrested on campus

Sponsored by:

A female student was allegedly sexually assaulted on the Rancho Cucamonga campus on Oct. 17, according to a press release from the Chaffey College Police Department. Campus police identified the suspect as Jacob Robert Martinez. Martinez was arrested on campus

without incident on Nov. 1. There have been no similar incidents reported. The Chaffey College Police Department can be reached by phone at (909) 652-6632 or at their office on campus. -Robert Ortiz

4 | Features

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

Angel Carranza, English and graphic design major, with educational sign language interpreter Connie Martinez.

GLORY PIÑA

Deaf student’s success inspires others INSPIRATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

When asked where his strength and dedication comes from, he said that his family and mentors pushed him to succeed. But he has also fought for himself. “I am a person who has a disability, but I defend my rights,” he said. “I like to challenge myself. I won’t let other people decide my limits.” He got into graphic design because his mother decorates cakes. Her work inspired him to be creative and come up with designs of his own. She

did everything she could to support him. “My mother did the best she could,” Carranza said. “My first year in college, she drove from Hesperia to Rancho Cucamonga and waited in the parking lot for my classes to be over. She wanted me to be happy, and she had dreams of me graduating with honors.” His academic achievements are enough to lead people to expect and give more of themselves, but what really makes him special is his heart for others. “I hope to be a positive inspiration to people with a disability in pursuing their education,” he said. “I hope that someone

will hear my story and know that I am hearing impaired and inspire them in a positive way. If I can do it, they can do it as well.” He also explained how Connie Martinez, educational sign language interpreter for the disability program and services, helped him the most by pushing him to succeed and encouraging him. “Out of 20 years of interpreting, Angel is only the second deaf student to graduate with honors,” Martinez said. “He is very determined. If he takes five classes,

he will succeed in all five classes. We help each other when it comes to education and goals. “He inspired me to pursue my Master’s degree at the University of La Verne,” she said. “He is a role model for every human being. Every professor here adores him. They don’t forget his name. I am amazed, and I know he will be very successful.” Angel hopes to transfer to Cal State Fullerton and double major in graphic design and English.

It’s never too late to get a college education GLORIA ARGUINZONI

The days where most college freshmen are directly out of high school are long gone. Today, older students are returning or beginning college to finish their education. These students often juggle family life, school, work and their own fears without missing a beat. “With my daughter, I worry about what she is doing. Sometimes that is distracting. I have to wait until she is asleep to do my homework, which is usually after 9,” business office and technologies major Angela Ybarra said. Ybarra takes complete advantage of all the resources Chaffey has to offer. “I believe since I am an older student, I have to use all study habits and resources combined,” she said. “I was afraid I wouldn’t retain info because I am older, but they should have more workshops, especially math at different times. They should have activities on campus for us so we feel more like a part of the school community.” Chaffey offers students help in their success centers. Homework help and one-

on-one tutoring are offered in the Math Success Center. Writing help and workshops are offered in the Multidisciplinary Center. “Initially, it was very intimidating and overwhelming after a 20-year gap,” business office management major Dorothy Nevarez said. “Not knowing if I could keep up the pace with the new technology. I think requiring students to take a workshop to help them learn what to expect [is a good idea], because it is a mental and emotional challenge.” However, Nevarez feels that she is one of the lucky ones. “I have been fortunate that my teachers have been there for me and that the younger students in my class have been willing to help me,” she said. Not all students share this same experience. “Half the time, I am afraid to raise my hand because I feel like an idiot,” child development major Joann Loguydice said. “I go to the DPS and they help me. If you have something in your heart and you want to achieve, just do what you have to, no matter what. Don’t give up.”

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

Features/Arts & Entertainment | 5

Sriracha hot sauce causes hot mess cause Sriracha is really good,” nursing major Natalia Carrillo said. “I think the locals are suing the company just to make money because I saw a report on the news that took place in front of the factory and the reporter commented that there was no smell.” While Sriracha sauce is offered at the Chaffey Dining Commons, food and service director Maria Earlywine is not concerned about any possible shortages. “We don’t use it in our cooking,” Earlywine said. “We can break it down and make our own version of Sriracha without the preservatives, like our fresh salsas.” Many students expressed their preference of alternatives to the Sriracha hot sauce. “Honestly, I never use Sriracha, and I didn’t even know Chaffey offered it,” nursing student Julian Zarate said. “I prefer Tapatio [hot sauce] over any other sauce.” “[A shortage] doesn’t bother me because I use Tabasco hot sauce,” graphic design major Anthony Torres said. “I prefer fresh jalapenos over preserved hot sauces and spices,” accounting major Miguel Benitez said. Eventually, the shortage was temporarily avoided when a judge denied the locals’

attempt to shut down production of the popular chili sauce. Judge Robert O’Brien rejected Irwindale’s bid to halt operations at the Huy Fong Foods plant until the company creates a solution to reduce the odor from sauce production. Following Judge O’Brien’s decision, a Philadelphia city council member wrote a letter to the Huy Fong Foods CEO expressing 10 reasons why the factory should be moved to Philadelphia. “We [Philadelphians] are never embarrassed to be seen at a public restaurant doing what appears to be a ceremonial rain dance just to squeeze the last drops of Sriracha left inside the bottle,” Kenney said in the letter. When asked about the letter, Kenney expressed the important need to bring jobs to the city of Philadelphia and boast the city’s vibrant immigrant populations. Even in full production, supply of this popular chili sauce is tight. Last year, 20 million bottles of Sriracha sauce were sold. Huy Fong Foods struggles to keep up with demand even as it packs over 200,000 bottles of its chili sauce everyday.

by over 200 visitors throughout the five his semesterly zine-making assignments, hour time span. Nestled into the alleyway the culture has infiltrated campus life in adjacent to popular art hub/coffee shop, various shapes and forms. Art major Jaime “Flan” Munoz recently Augie’s, the fest welcomed zineists from released the third installment of his zine every corner of the California landscape. Defined by photography major Lu- series, “Hello There, How's Life.” Volume cia Robles as “mini literary and art jour- III looks at the unexplored realm of hobo ethical codes. nals,” she says their Munoz utilized his prominence and impact zine (zēn): 12-page endeavor to ilis found in their “raw noun lustrate signs and symtone.” bols used by early 20th Raw is probably one an independently made, century train travelers, of the more precise ways short-run mini-magazine also giving a history of to truly identify the confocusing on niche subjects. their often ignored past. tent of most zines. They While the craft of often explore topics rezine-making originated lating to the youth experience, bypassing censorship or any form as early as the 1930s, the style and content of current zine culture resembles what of creative suppression. Chaffey College students and faculty seems to be a direct response to the late have now found themselves among the grit 1970s punk rock phenomenon. In the ‘70s, and grime. From the Chaffey Review’s un- zines were often dispersed with the intent derlying essence as a maximized version of of giving social issues or taboo subjects, a zine, to art professor Alex Sanchez and quite like the informal ethical codes of ho-

bos, a platform to stand upon. Anti-pop music, substance abuse, feminism, LGBT activism and mental health are all topics that have driven zine content since the art form's inception. “A zine is a homemade magazine that pretty much consists of self-published work,” Jason Hunter Harris, vice president of (u)ntitled, said. “I started checking out the whole DIY zine culture a few years back after talking to a friend of mine about getting my work out for others to see,” he said. “The first zine that I helped coordinate and contributed artwork to was titled ‘Vague Person;’ it featured artwork from other students who attended Chaffey as well.” Harris’s efforts with “Vague Person,” in addition to the new zine he has in the works, are just the tip of the iceberg for Chaffey’s overall relationship to zine culture. As the trend of print news and tangible art and information continues to resurface, campus enthusiasts are sure to follow suit.

MANAR HIJAZ

MICAH RHODES

If Huy Fong Foods would have decided to close down their Sriracha plant, this bottle, photographed in the cafeteria on Nov. 7, may have been one of the last.

Hot sauce lovers panicked over reports of a possible shortage of Sriracha hot sauce last month. Production of this sauce in the Irwindale California factory was threatened when city locals filed a lawsuit against the company in a Los Angeles court. The suit included complaints about the smell the factory produced, claiming it caused burning eyes, throats and headaches. It also demanded that production of the hot sauce be halted until the factory could come up with a less odorous means to produce its product. Huy Fong Foods founder and CEO David Tran told the Los Angeles Times that if the California factory was forced to shut down, there would be a shortage of the hot sauce. “If the city shuts us down, the price of Sriracha will jump up a lot,” Tran said in the article. Several students do not want to see this poplar hot sauce off the shelf. “I love Sriracha and I use it a lot,” nursing major Ian Ericson said. “I don’t want the factory to stop producing it.” “They shouldn’t close the factory be-

The Zine Community Takes Hold in the Inland Empire

KIMBERLY JOHNSON Zine culture has come back on the art circuit with a gritty and evocative vengeance. Presumably halted by the cultural transition to digital information sharing over the last decade, the do-it-yourself art form of zine-making took a backseat to the impatience of immediate uploads and an insatiable thirst for visual gratification. It was apparent the ‘90s were long gone and the desire to hold tangible evidence of one's local art culture had passed. Swept into an inscrutable underground arena for the better part of 10 years, zine culture has now finally managed to resurface both globally and locally in a major way. One instance of this phenomenon’s revisitation to the community’s soil is the recent IE Zine Fest, held in downtown Redlands. Ray Duran, owner of Redlands comic book store, A Shop Called Quest, hosted the festivities on Nov. 2, attended

Photos courtesy of the “NIGHTED LIFE THREE” series of zines.

6 | Reviews

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

‘The Counselor’ is a bland, tasteless venture

Courtesy of 20th Century Fox. Copyright Scott Free Productions.

Michael Fassbender in “The Counselor.”

HANAJUN CHUNG “The Counselor” has the ingredients for something wonderful. First, there’s director Ridley Scott, the legendary filmmaker behind masterpieces such as “Alien” and “Gladiator.” Second, there’s the finest gathering of A-list talent filling out the cast, names such as Michael Fassbender, Cameron Diaz, and Brad Pitt. Finally -and most exciting -- is the first original screenplay by Pulitzer Prize Novelist Cormac McCarthy. “The Road” and “No Country for Old Men” were proof that McCarthy’s novels could be adapted for the big screen, but his strengths as a novelist are unfortunately carried into his screenwriting, ultimately damaging “The Counselor” immensely. The film centers around a crooked counselor with no name (Michael Fassbender)

as his one-time forray into a Mexican drug-trafficking deal turns into a decision that results in consequences he confidently thought he’d avoid. More could be said about the plot, but it would be postulating and guessing, because McCarthy doesn’t really write plot in this script. The film’s few set pieces might suggest some kind of story, but McCarthy’s screenplay is too interested in the themes and ideas behind the actions of the characters, ignoring what’s necessary in providing “The Counselor” the weight to match its subject matter. In the film’s 111-minute runtime, the majority of it consists of conversation. The topics — whether about consequences, deviancy or greed — are quite interesting to hear from the hands of someone experienced with prose, and most of the acting is solid to get the point across.

Doctor of

Physical Therapy Earn your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in just 31 months from Azusa Pacific University, and gain a solid, generalist perspective of patient care. All you need is a bachelor’s degree in biology, physical education, applied health, or a related field.

Program Benefits Prepares you for entry-level positions in orthopedics, neurology, cardiopulmonology, clinical electrophysiology, pediatrics, geriatrics, and sports medicine. Qualifies you for leadership positions in hospitals, private clinics, sports clinics, rehabilitation centers, pain clinics, government agencies, home and community health care programs, and research projects. Enables you to join one of the fastest-growing sectors in health care. CALL // (626) 815-4570 CLICK // apu.edu/dpt EMAIL // graduatecenter@apu.edu 14951

However, as a film, it falls again into the trap of saying and not showing. The deepest, most relevant conversations pale in comparison to Scott’s scene work: beautifully shot and memorable in execution. Despite the film’s shortcomings, “The Counselor" has several truly memorable or unforgettable sequences. But when characters start talking for long stretches in the scene, it mostly falls short. Cameron Diaz is usually a great screen presence, but she’s miscast as the femme fatale, unremarkable in her performance on top of struggling with an accent. The problem with “The Counselor” in relation to its director is that it doesn’t feel like a Ridley Scott film. The filmmaker is usually excellent at building worlds that are fit to tell large-scale stories. Recently, he hasn’t been receiving the most positive press regarding to previous

releases (“Prometheus,” “Robin Hood,” and “Body of Lies”), but those films at least carry the polish and craftsmanship of a veteran hand. The bigger moments within “The Counselor” seem to operate on Scott’s level of talent, but there’s so much of the film that just feels uninspired. A director’s cut might fix things, but this film is already too long on top of all its pondering. Most of the performances, however, are quite fun to watch. Javier Bardem and Brad Pitt are fearless in playing the quirky accomplices to the titular character. Fassbender especially does a great job as he takes the audience through his short, explosively tragic journey into crime. It’s one of those films in which the audience can easily follow the protagonist’s psyche, but it’s also one of those films that doesn’t really explain what exactly these people are actually doing. If “The Counselor” was a “too many cooks” scenario, then it would at least suggest that everyone involved actually wanted to see the film realized in a particular way. The ingredients were all there; it’s just that the master chef should’ve known better than to rely too heavily on instructions. The Good: The acting. Some memorable set pieces. Beautifully shot. The Bad: The script — while compelling — is cripplingly weak. The Weird: “No Country for Old Men” is probably the best adaptation of a McCarthy story, also featuring Javier Bardem. Overall: C-

Opinion | 7

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

Pros & cons of warfare from the sky

Obama’s new order: live like drones or die like civilians ERIC GARCIA

Obama holds your life in his hands, and he wants you to know it. Since the president’s inauguration in 2008, the Obama administration has relentlessly bombarded the American people with radical policies, ranging from health care reform to deficit spending, leaving a once great nation tattered and spiraling into socialism. This has all been a part of a grand vision to change the silly outdated line in the Constitution from “We the People” to “We the Subjects.” It comes as no surprise then that, after a successful domestic campaign, a power-hungry president would eventually want to expand his empire, and set his sights on the rest of the world. However, instead of turning to sluggish and decrepit weapons, such as “Democracy,” the administration opted for a more direct approach that would better fit the image of King Obama: Drones. Capable of relaying high resolution images from 18,000 feet, operating autonomously by GPS, and carrying hundreds of pounds of supplies, the drone is the ultimate tool for scientific research and search and rescue missions. Of course, all of that is inconsequential

as its primary use by the Obama administration is as an unmanned air combat vehicle in targeted killings. In an era where modern warfare consists of RPGs, roadside bombs and suicide attacks, it is easy to see the merit of precise unmanned weapons warding off terrorists and fighting evil in place of precious human troops. However, missiles and explosions are never a truly exact science and regardless of how much planning and technology goes into coordinating a drone strike, there still remains a significant risk of wounding innocent civilians. Unfortunately, in areas where drones are frequently utilized, such as Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen and Libya, the strikes often result in significant civilian casualties, many of whom tend to be children. In fact, in recent years, the strikes have become so frequent and imprecise that sentiment against the United States has filled the very regions that the United States attempted to liberate. While Middle East leaders have pleaded with the Obama administration to halt counterintuitive drone strikes, the administration has instead responded by denying civilian casualties, increasing the frequency of strikes, bombing areas outside of war

zones and in some instances even targeting American citizens in foreign countries, further driving home the administration’s viewpoint that terrorism is the most viable means of combating terrorism. While drone usage has been widely publicized as being restricted to foreign deployment, recent events have forced Obama and other security officials to admit to domestic drone implementation in spying and tracking programs. This highlights a disturbing trend. Not only is drone usage within the Unit-

ed States completely unregulated, but also, in an era of mass media and instantaneous information, the American public is less informed than ever about the actions of their elected leaders. With so little accountability and so much unmediated power, the Obama administration will continue to exert its iron thumb upon not only the American people, but the rest of the world as well, until its message is understood loud and clear by all. You can either live like a drone or die like a civilian.

which have stirred up an ethical debate regarding modern warfare. As in most decisions of warfare, there is no black and white on this situation. The debate is not whether these drones in use are wrong or right. It is whether or not it is the safest, easiest, most effective way to pull off an operation while keeping our soldiers safe. Many have certainly heard of the horrors of innocent or presumed innocent victims hit by these strikes. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) has been quoted as saying that we’ve killed 4,700 people. “Sometimes you hit innocent people, and I hate that, but we’re at war, and we’ve taken out some very senior members of alQaida,” Graham said. The numbers cited by Graham are simi-

lar to a tally by the London-based Bureau of Investigative Journalism. It states that the number killed in drone strikes in Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia is between 3,072 and 4,756. It is sad that there are innocent victims in these attacks, but in doing the strikes, the safety of United States citizens and those engaged in combat in the Middle East is ensured. Traditional combat should only be considered when there are no other routes to pursue. “The physical distance between the drone and its shooter makes lack of precision unavoidable,” the Anti-War Committee said. However, to adapt a commonly used phrase from the NRA, drones don’t kill people, people kill people.

It is better to utilize an unmanned aircraft than to put a kid that is probably right out of high school in the middle of a dangerous operation. Just because they signed up to be a protector of our country doesn’t mean they should be thrown in harm’s way when another avenue can be used. According to secret diplomatic cables leaked by Wikileaks, Pakistan’s Army Chief Ashfaq Parvez Kayani not only tacitly agreed to the drone flights, but in 2008 requested that Americans increase them. People who want the troops home and out of harm’s way are now attacking the prime resource in solving that problem. More advanced technologies are keeping mothers and fathers, husbands and wives enlisted in the military safe on United States soil.

ILLUSTRATION BY KIRK MCCONNELL

Use of drones helps keep loved ones in military safe CHRIS HAIDL

There was once a time when war was defined by human beings with weapons marching to battle. This was the case until modern technology was developed to deploy robots, such as the Dragon Runner, a military robot built for urban combat, to replace human beings in highly dangerous situations. The robots are utilized in areas that are too dangerous for or inaccessible by human soldiers, particularly in urban environments. There are also remotely controlled explosive ordnance disposal robots used to disarm bombs and improvised explosives from afar. However, it seems that the hot topic right now is unmanned drone aircraft,

An open letter in response to faculty member’s defamatory remarks ANDREW COONS

The role of an adviser, in its simplest form, is to provide expert-level advice and guidance. It could be argued that such advice and guidance resulting in repeated blatant violations of law would stem from anyone but an expert. However, some degree of understanding should be afforded. People make mistakes after all. It’s the actions after mistakes are made that help to form the perception of a public employee. For many, that perception of ASCC adviser John Machado is not favorable. His decision to hold multiple closed session meetings, although in violation of the Brown Act, seemingly originated from a respect for student privacy. Yet, his actions after being confronted on the violations have shifted the perceived motivation from one of respect to one of obstinance and self-preservation. This sentiment has been apparently adopted by portions of the administration as well. From an unofficial statement released on the ASCC Facebook page containing various legal fallacies, to multiple written

and verbal statements on the record attacking the credibility of The Breeze, all without specifics and in a verbiage that would suggest only a skimming of published articles, Machado has portrayed himself as one interested not in what is right, but rather what is self-serving. At a Pizza with the Presidents event last month, then acting ASCC president Carlotta Bohon was asked about the level of involvement that faculty had on the operations of the ASCC, and the extent to which the organization was run by students. Her response that the body is entirely run by students without outside influence almost directly contradicts the assignment of Machado as the only point of contact for those with questions or concerns. That assertion is made infinitely more troubling with Machado’s refusal to communicate with a reporter or even respond to emails from concerned students. During the same event last month, Superintendent/President Dr. Henry Shannon explained that we live in a litigious society, and that silence was a result of a desire for non-incrimination. While Shannon’s message is under-

standable, the situation provided a perfect opportunity for the administration to demonstrate to its students a lesson that is often missing in today’s world: accountability. Instead, there has, apparently, been a troubling display of influence and intimidation that runs counter to any resemblance of justice or intellectualism. By allegedly contributing to the squelching of those he’s been tasked to merely advise, Machado has given some students the appearance that their government does not represent them, and that it’s acceptable for their concerns and questions to go unanswered. To add insult to injury, Machado has made slanderous remarks about The Breeze both in emails to faculty members, and during a recent faculty Senate meeting. These remarks are unprofessional and seem to originate either from naiveté or willful ignorance of the details. All attempts to tarnish the reputation of The Breeze have strengthened and reinforced the publication’s resolve to presenting information in a factual and unbiased manner, both for the sake of integrity and out of a dedication to supporters.

If Machado feels his side of the story is not being accurately portrayed, he, along with any other faculty member or student, is encouraged to discuss their concerns with the editor-in-chief, who is always available for such talks. It is disingenuous of him to claim that only one side of the story is being presented while simultaneously declining to comment after multiple requests. This conflict has ballooned far past the importance of individuals. The attitudes of the collective group of those in positions of power is wrong and perpetuates an atmosphere of coercion and covertness, which is ultimately damaging to students. The staff of The Breeze stands firm in their commitment to ensuring the voices and rights of all students and faculty are protected. Through recent actions, some in the administration have proved why this commitment is so vital. But the fight is worth fighting. Perhaps Finley Peter Dunne said it best. He said the purpose of newspapers is to “to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”

8 | Sports

thebreezeonline.com | November 12, 2013

Football team’s winning streak continues

MICHELLE MENES

Wide receiver DeAndre Williams makes a catch to score the first touchdown against East Los Angeles College on Nov. 2. The Panthers went on to win 41-0 in their last home game of the season.

The Panther football team has risen from the ashes like a phoenix. In all honesty and cliché lines aside, this 2013 team is currently sitting at No. 1 in the American Mountain Conference with a 7-1 record simply by playing fundamental, balanced and quality football. The Panthers have drastically improved on both sides of the ball since last year’s 2-8 season. This is a new team, with a new coach in Rob Hadaway and new determination. The D line is stout. With a total of 21 sacks, no team has been able to find an answer to the solid West Coast offense led by a strong rushing unit and stellar quarterback play. Starting QB Dimitri Morales has piled up some impressive statistics, including 108 completions in 172 attempts with

13 touchdown passes and no interceptions. Led by Morales’s four TDs, the Panthers trounced East Los Angeles College 41-0 on Nov. 4 for their seventh straight win. Cameron Davis rushed for 97 yards, Quincy Jones scored two TDs and the defense was led by Jerome Smith’s six tackles. That win followed victories over Mt. San Jacinto, San Bernardino, Citrus, Compton, Victor Valley and Antelope Valley. The only loss came in the first game of the season against Santa Monica College. After traveling to San Diego Mesa on Nov. 9, the Panthers will conclude their regular season play on Saturday, Nov. 16 when they face conference rival Southwestern in San Diego. Game time is 6 p.m. -Micah Rhodes

MICHELLE MENES

Quarterback Dimitri Morales, center Nathan Goltry and offensive tackle Kaige Lawrence line up in the Panthers’ last home game of the season against East Los Angeles College on Nov. 2.

14 FINANCIAL AID W E B I N A R THURSDAY, NOVEMBER

MICHELLE MENES

Quarterback Dimitri Morales runs with the ball in the Panthers’ last home game of the season against East Los Angeles College on Nov. 2.

MICHELLE MENES

Jordan Ah-honi sacks East Los Angeles College quarterback Alek Barrera causing a turnover which led to a Panthers touchdown on Nov. 2.

Soccer Conference Champions

During the webinar you can:

PROMISE YOURSELF SUCCESS Thursday, November 14 at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by:

The Lady Panthers have clinched the Foothill Conference Championship with several shutouts throughout the season. They will be hosting a game against Imperial Valley on Nov. 14.