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CRC hip-hop artist strengthens community through music
See Page 7 Nicole Goodie| The Connection
Accreditation
What does this mean for our college? News, Page 3 ISSUE 2 Spring 2016 Student voice of CRC since 1970
‘Firewatch’ Review Video game has amazed players during its debut Features, Page 6
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Apple vs. FBI
The fight is not as clear-cut as it seems Opinion, Page 9
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2016 starts spring semester with new head coach Sports, Page 12
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February 25, 2016
>>News
Microbeads banned because of water quality By Nicole Goodie ngoodie.connect@gmail.com A new law was put into place that will prevent certain small plastic beads from showing up in your next sushi roll. The Microbead-free Waters Act of 2015 became public law on Dec. 28. The law prohibits the sale or distribution of rinse-off cosmetics containing plastic microbeads and is intended to protect the nation’s waterways. A plastic microbead includes any solid plastic particle that is less than five millimeters in size and is intended to be used to exfoliate or cleanse the body, according to the law. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology suggests that 8 trillion microbeads are introduced to aquatic habitats daily. The study also states that the banning of these plastic beads will ultimately protect water quality, wildlife and resources used by people. But why do people need to be protected from these tiny beads? “Plastic does a lot of weird stuff when it gets into the water anywhere,” said Biology Professor Eli Carlisle. “A lot of stuff will leach out of it and those can cause a lot of pretty negative effects on biological systems.” Carlisle said some plastics can be just plain toxic for the
body. “Some actually emulate hormones, so they alter the way your body functions,” he said. Carlisle said that although some chemicals that go in plastics are tested, most are not tested efficiently if at all. “We do a very poor job of actually testing [plastics] before we start using them,” he said. However, just cutting certain cosmetics out of your life isn’t enough. “It’s hard to find a human that doesn’t have some level of plastic or pollution in their bodies,” Carlisle said. He also said the impact of
plastics in the environment is even worse when it looks like food to some animals. “The funny thing about those beads, they’re very similar to fish eggs in size,” he said. “A lot of things will actively eat them thinking they’re food.” Carlisle said if these animals keep eating the beads, they will start accumulating in the food chain and eventually end up in our seafood products. So even though the small size of the beads are causing a huge impact, the plastic product is contributing to an already massive problem. “Plastic is one of the ma-
jor problems in this world and we have a shit ton of it in the ocean,” said 21-year-old marine biology major Connor Platt. Platt said it is good that the beads are being banned because they are just an accessory item that shouldn’t be in production anyway. Some people had no idea these microbeads are made of plastics. “I thought they dissolved, I really did,” said 29-year-old film studies major Sharifa Zaheer. Once she found out about the harms the microbeads are causing, Zaheer said she would stop using products
Courtesy Photo
that contain them. “Ultimately we have to think of the world as a whole, not just what it’s doing to us only,” Zaheer said. “Maybe it helps me exfoliate or it smells good or it feels good but then what is it doing to the environment as a whole?” Since filters can’t catch the beads, the law will now prevent companies from introducing more of the beads into the oceans. But Carlisle said people need to continue to be aware. “Think about what goes down the drain,” he said. “Everything you dump down the drain is going to get into the environment somehow.”
Scholarship opportunities still available for students By Kayleen Carter kcarter.connect@gmail.com Every spring, students at Cosumnes River College have the opportunity to apply for scholarships beginning Jan. 4 through March 4. The main requirement in order to apply for a scholarship is that students have to be currently enrolled in six units at CRC, or have completed six units in the time they have attended the college. Each individual college has their own scholarship program. A student attending Cosumnes River College, who attended a sister college, could still have the units apply to the CRC scholarships.
“It’s crazy the kind of debts students are carrying to get their degree,” said Director of College Advancement, Peter F. Bostic. “And this is one way that donors can help and students can take advantage of keeping their debt at a minimum. Because they’re grants, students don’t pay back this stuff.” Marisol Orellana, 20, a general education major, said that the scholarships were a good thing. “I think it’s good, because it helps you with school,” Orellana said. “And if you want to transfer, and you don’t have the money, they give you money to help you with school supplies.”
Scholarship season begins only during the spring semesters. Students apply in the spring for the following fall and the rewards are not reimbursed until that fall. The process of applying is mainly online. Students click on the link that says “apply for scholarships” on the website and the link takes you to the Los Rios Online Scholarship Application page. At the bottom of the page students click on their respective college out of the four listed and are taken to an information page. After creating an account, students are then asked to answer basic information such as GPA, and education goals.
“Then it asks you for your personal information, student ID, last name,” said Elizabeth Starbuck, college relations specialist for college advancement. “There are four questions you have to answer, then once you complete that click submit. The system comes back with a list of scholarships that you are qualified to apply for.” And the scholarships you qualify for are based on the information you listed such as your major,or GPA. In addition to the minimum unit requirement, students are required to have at least one letter of recommendation. This can come from an employer, teacher, staff mem-
ber at CRC or even a church pastor, provided this person has a thorough understanding of your talents and overall work ethic. However, students are not limited to one letter of recommendation and can have multiple letters submitted. Bostic explained that there are many different types of scholarships that students could qualify for. “Not all of them are academic based and some of them are,” Bostic said. “There are financial need based as well.” An awards night is held on April. 29 for those who have won a scholarship. Students, whether they have won a scholarship or not, are notified through email or by letter.
THECRCCONNECTION.COM
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Campus addresses Syrian refugee crisis By Kayleen Carter kcarter.connect@gmail.com A panel discussion met on Feb. 17, that addressed the components of the immigration crisis touched on aspects of the Syrian refugee crisis and why it was an issue. Anthropology Professor Shannon Mills began the idea of the immigration series while Professor Martin Morales, a political science professor, hosted that night’s event. The main focus of the event was to deter blame away from the refugees as the sole factors of the crisis problem, providing data and statistics to breakdown the reasons why refugees were emigrating from their countries and why other countries see this as an issue. Morales stated that the most important aspect he hoped the audience would go home with was a better understanding of the refugee predicament. “[Have] an awareness of the crisis, specifically how it’s being misrepresented by the media,” Morales said. “And how people who are only running from terrorism to get away from terrorism are being victimized as terrorists when in fact they’re not. Including Mills and Morales, Professor Anastasia Panagakos, Professor Gabri-
el Gorman, Professor Donnisha Lego, and Professor Beth Huffman were all apart of the panel discussion. Each of the professors spoke about a different topic that coincided with the issue of the Syrian crisis: A Historical comparison of the refugee crisis, culture, value, and refugees in Europe, Anti-immigrant parties and culture of fear featuring immigrants and refugees. There were many references to a lack of information surrounding refugees, as well as an acknowledgment of a growing fear against them. Amjad Anifan, a 24 year old economics major, lived in Syria for 20 years then moved to California where he has lived for 4 years and was present at the event. Anifan said that he learned a lot from the information presented and enjoyed getting another perspective on the issue. Mills said that the one of the problems involving the crisis was because of a negative perspective from the media. “Most people view Syrians as kind of a Muslim other,” Mills said. “And since there is so much Islama-phobia being put out there in the media right now that’s why people have this anti-Syrian, anti-immigrant stand.” Gorman compared the Jewish immigration crisis in World War II and the Syrian
Kayleen Carter| The Connection
Gabriel Gorman finishes his presentation at the immigration event . The panel spoke on concerns of refugees.
refugee crisis currently with the way in which each group was pointedly treated, giving examples of different perspectives from the Republican and Democratic presidential campaigners on aiding them. Gorman said that United States has a subtle “face value” sympathy concerning the refugee crisis. Huffman said the idea of extremist parties that arose in different countries, especially after the Paris attacks, that made it extremely difficult for refugees to get into and or stay in their host countries. Sometimes even promoting extreme racism and Xenophobia. On the idea of the Syrian
emigration process, Lego ascertained that in a case such as the refugee crisis, a solution to solving the problem would be to identify the source of the conflict so that the problem could come to a staunch resolution. Mills said that the identity of America itself was one that was composed of immigrants. “The United States is an immigrant culture,” Mills said. “We are made up of immigrants.” Mills spoke about how immigrants posed an economic and social threat to those residing in the United States and that essentially, emigrating into our culture would induce
change that mills said was a “common fear” amongst people. In addition to the six professors, CRC student Kaven Toofen who would be transferring to UC Davis, also presented his data on immigration from his four years of volunteer service at the International Rescue Committee located in Sacramento, an institution that offers aid to refugees seeking asylum. Toofen recanted the staggering number of refugees received by the IRC institution, and reminded audiences to remember they were luckier than most of the people he worked with on a daily basis.
Local gas prices are still on the decline By Erica Trujillo etrujillo.connect@gmail.com The United States gas prices are declining significantly depending on where you live. The average California gas price is $2.30 according to Gasbuddy.com. Some California citizens are paying less for gas than in July. Where there are more oil refineries, the price of oil decreases, but where there are less oil refineries then the price of oil is higher than other states,according to the The New York Times. The main reason why gas prices are low is due to fracking. The
“We can drive to the same amount
of places for cheaper, or travel more for the same cost we were spending before. ”
-- Edwin Fagin
U.S. is looking for ways to rely on their own supplies to make things cheaper for the country, according to an article written by Ecowatch. com. People are happy about the decline but still apprehensive as to why gas is suddenly so low. “Having lower gas prices is a good thing,” said Danny Van Steyn, a 20-year-old history ma-
economics professor jor. “I am spending $60 less every two months and not as concerned with my gas usage. However, it is probably a bad thing on a global issue.” Other countries such as Saudi, Nigeria and Algeria suffer from the United States not importing oil from them. These countries make most of their money selling oil to the U.S., so when it isn’t being
bought, they have less income and are forced to sell it to Asian countries for less, according to The New York Times. Other countries aren’t the only ones negatively affected by lower oil prices. “It affects two sides of the economy, and oil companies are one of those sides,” said Economics Professor Edwin Fagin. “Since they are losing profits people can start to be laid off.” Some students noticed the decline in gas because of how inexpensive it is nowadays to fill up a full tank. Kahlil Williams, 18-year-old business major said, it is much
cheaper to fill up a gas tank. However the problems that may occur due to the decline of gas prices are concerning. Gas prices have declined “25.3 cents since last month’s average of $2.002,”according to GasBuddy.com . Filling up a gas tank today won’t cost as much as last year’s prices but it will affect the countries the United States buys from in the long run. “For consumers it’s fantastic,” Fagin said. “We can drive to the same amount of places for cheaper or we can travel more for the same cost we were spending before.”
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FEBRUARY 25, 2016
Campus Accredited
Report gives campus 18 months to address recommendations By Tyler Santana tsantana.connect@gmail.com
The college, along with the other three colleges in the Los Rios Community College District, have had their accreditation reaffirmed from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Cosumnes River College earned its reaffirmation, however, the school is being asked to provide a follow up report with improvements that the ACCJC has recommended by March 2017. This is the first time that the commission has implemented an 18-month reaffirmation, said Communication Studies Professor Georgine Hodgkinson, who is one of the Trichairs that helped in getting the college reaffirmed. “The college is fully re-accredited,” said College President Edward Bush. The ACCJC usually operates on a pass or fail kind of grade where colleges would be reaffirmed for three or six years or put on probation, Bush said. Eleven community colleges were up for the accreditation process this year, and 10 of the colleges received the 18-month reaffirmation while one of the colleges received a warning, Bush said. CRC was given two recommendations that needed to be worked on, while Los Rios, as a district, received four, Bush said. The first recommendation is for the college to improve the outcome of student success in multiple programs, according to the report from the ACCJC. “Are our students achieving what they are saying they want to?” Bush said. All of the departments at CRC are going through the process to determine what they think can be improved within them, said Vice President Whitney Yamamura. “The departments here have been asked to look at the most important things,” Yamamura said. The college already had plans before the commission’s recommendations to adjust some of the outcomes to better improve the student success rate, however those plans are now being streamlined. “We need to reduce and accelerate our initial plans that
we originally had in place,” Bush said. The second recommendation is asking the college to document all of the ways that they are going to improve and accelerate the outcomes of student success within its programs, according to the report. “It’s like a math problem and the commission is the teacher asking us to show the work,” Bush said. The district recommendations mainly referred to the ways that the colleges are able to communicate with the district. “All faculty have a survey they can fill out and send to the district chancellor,” Yamamura said. The ACCJC has taken some heavy criticism in the past couple of years, especially after the commission decided to not award accreditation to Community College of San Francisco in the Fall of 2013, according to an article from The San Francisco Chronicle. The school and its faculty sought legal action with help from the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office. The school was able to get their accreditation put on hold and eventually returned to them, according to the article. The attorneys claimed that the ACCJC focused more on what was happening at an administrative level within the college rather than quality of the education the students were receiving, according to the article. With the new 18-month reaffirmation Bush said that it is another step of accountability for the commission, and although he said he feels in some ways all the standards were met he agreed with the commission’s decision. “At the moment, there is nothing we can do, except deal with the recommendations we have been given by the commission,” Bush said. The 18-month reaffirmation with a follow up report does not worry Yamamura. “It’s kind of like a fix-it ticket,” he said. “We could have had a follow up visit, but all we need to do is submit a report to the commission by the deadline.” It also gives the campus a chance to work towards achieving something greater and improve collectively, which faculty tend to do naturally, Bush said. “I think the recommendations will give the college an opportunity to grow,” Hodgkinson said.
Are you connected?
SAVE THE
DATE ART GALLERY CRC’s Art Gallery opens March 5 at 6 p.m. for its new exhibit, “Chromatic Distortion.” The art show will feature large-scale abstract paintings by artists Susan Aulik, Cherie Hacker and Kathleen Thompson. The exhibition will run Monday -Thursday from 11 to 5 p.m. until March 28.
FAFSA DEADLINE
The deadline to complete the Free Application for Student Aid in California is March 2. The campus financial aid office will be available to help fill out the FAFSA on Feb. 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on March 11 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Student Access Center in room L-125.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH KEYNOTE
Women’s History Month starts in March and the campus will have a keynote speaker on March 2 in the recital hall from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Political Science Professor Martin Morales will show a film “Eastside Sushi,” which highlights the connection between ethnicity, expectations and economic opportunity.
FREE TAX HELP
Receive updates of our online coverage to your e-mail inbox by subscribing at thecrcconnection.com or follow us at facebook.com/crcconnection Instagram: @crcconnection Twitter: @crcconnection
Cosumnes River College is offering free tax preparation for those that have earned under $54,000 in 2015. The preparations happen in room number BS140A and occur on Feb. 27 and every Saturday in March from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Bring the required materials which are photo identification, Social Security card and tax information.
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THECRCCONNECTION.COM
>>Features
Counseling office now offers live chat option By Brennan Smith bfjsmith.connect@gmail.com Students at Cosumnes River College now have an opportunity to chat with counselors via an online chat room on the CRC Website. Counselor Monica Cranston and human services professor Hoyt Fong said that the counseling department has been testing an online service that would help quickly answer students’ counseling questions without having to be on campus. The online chat room for counseling, which recently kicked off its continuation last week, can be found on the CRC website. “Students can check the Counseling page for times, schedules, and advertisements for Live Chat,” Cranston said. Some students said they hope that the live chat will make the counseling office more efficient and easy for the students. “I think it’d be helpful,” said Christine Garcia, a 27-year-old communications major. “I mean I’ve been at CRC for a while and the counseling office has kind of been a pain in the ass.” “I think it’s really hard to get a hold of counselors on this campus, like really hard,”
said 30-year-old sociology major Nick Rabon. “So if they actually use the system and it’s something that can be legitimized, then absolutely. I mean anything that helps me figure out something without having to make six appointments.” Fong also said that this digital venture is “an extension of the services provided in the counseling office on campus.” However, this isn’t the
“We’re totally open to any feedback or suggestions, or any new ideas for communication amongst counselors and students,” Cranston said. “I think this will improve with time and additional staff for additional hours,” Fong said of the online chat room. One issue that occurred in the trial run was that too many students were signing up, which caused the technology and the CRC website to crash
“So if they actually use the system and it’s something that can be legitimized, then absolutely. I mean anything that helps me figure out something without having to make six appointments.” -- Nick Rabon sociology major
first time the counseling department has attempted this platform. Cranston said that one of the issues during the trial run in the fall 2015 semester, was a limited amount of staff members. “Before holiday break, we were running, but in January, we took two to three weeks to look at staffing and scheduling in order for the venture to be successful,” Cranston said.
a few times. There was also a need of increase in internet speed, according to Fong. “There was a need of increase of staff and technology, especially when it came to speed,” Fong said. Even with some bugs, the counseling department received an 80 to 90 percent approval rating from most students during the trial run. Fong said the chat gives students another avenue to get
answers besides just the campus site. Cranston said that the chat produces more access for students who are struggling and need quick help with college-related situations. “It’s something that has become very common in the business world like online shopping, and we wanted to move forward in technology,” Cranston said. But just because the counseling department has added this online option, it doesn’t mean that students can use it instead of a full appointment. “It’s mostly for students who only have a quick question, but it’s not a replacement for a full appointment,” Fong said. Cranston said that students who don’t have time in their personal schedule for a full appointment are encouraged to use it. Although Cranston said that students can have their questions answered instantly, it is only when the live chat is in schedule. As of now, the chat is only open for one hour at a time, sometimes only once a day. The counselors also want students to know that the live chat is in no way a replacement or option for mental health counseling.
The live chat schedule can also be found on the CRC counseling website.
#TrendingNow A shooter in Kalamazoo killed six people in between giving Uber rides. The shooter had negative driver reviews on multiple occasions. “I think they should definitely look more into negative reviews because Uber’s not controlled, the drivers have the ability to pick up whoever is near them. There’s no control around it,” said Kendall Clifton, 21, a biology major.
a Ruling
Kesh
Uber
Shooter
The New York Supreme Court ruled that Kesha’s recording contract with her producer will remain. The producer allegedly raped Kesha verbally and sexually. “That’s sickening honestly. What’s gonna happen to her now behind closed doors? Now that she tried to open her voice who knows what the producer might be thinking now that he has that much power,” said Rork Crusto, 18, communications major.
Apple
Compiled by Oksana Barrios All photos are courtesy photos
vs. FBI
A federal court ordered Apple to create a new software in order to unlock the iPhone used by one of the San Bernandino shooters. Apple has since denied the request due to privacy issues. “I have an iPhone and I love security but honestly when it comes down to it, I think they should check his stuff. Yeah my security might be on the line if a hacker got it but I rather them prevent terrorism,” said Christian Zuniga, 21 a business management major.
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FEBRUARY 25, 2016
‘Firewatch’ captures beauty of Wyoming wilderness By Ashley Navarro anavarro.connect@gmail.com A simply stunning environment and a story that will drive the player to finish the game in one sitting, wanting more. “Firewatch,” the debut video game released by developer Campo Santo, captures the essence of the the Shoshone National Forest wilderness in 1989. “Firewatch” follows the first person perspective of a character named Henry, voiced by Rich Sommer from drama series “Mad Men,” who takes up a volunteer summer job working as a lookout in the Shoshone National Forest after the tragic Yellowstone fires of 1988. While doing his job, the player learns more about Henry’s background while also unraveling a mystery involving previous lookouts. The game first opens up letting the player learn about Henry and his life before taking up the job through a series of plain text. Players choose little things to add to his back story such as how he reacts to relationship situations and even choosing what kind of dog Henry adopts. Warning though, this introduction gets emotional pretty fast. After the rollercoaster of
emotion of an introduction, the journey as a volunteer lookout begins with Henry finding his lookout post and the player exploring the wilderness through Henry’s eyes.
Working with the first person perspective can usually make character development limited but “Firewatch” does a great job of letting the player decide how they want
to develop. The main form of conversation is through a walkie-talkie to his supervisor, Delilah, voiced by Cissy Jones of “The Walking Dead” games. Players get to choose their dialogue and it helps both characters open up about their past. The walkie-talkie bit of it seems like it was heavily inspired by “The Walking Dead” game series from Telltale Games. Which makes sense since developers from Campo Santo previously worked for Telltale Games. The way the characters develop a relationship solely from a walkie-talkie seems to have also gathered inspiration from “Bioshock.” Regardless of who it was inspired by, Campo Santo successfully made conversations seem realistic. Apart from the interesting choice of communication between characters, the game has truly amazing graphics. I don’t mean the game looks real but the color palette chosen along with the setting of the Wyoming wilderness is enough to make any player invested in the game. The colors give a nostalgic feel as if you were looking through photographs from a 1980’s summer in the wilderness. There are also sporadic posters throughout the game,
specifically in Henry’s lookout post that give into the nostalgic look. When the game was first released many were expecting it to be more gritty and full of crazy plot twists or maybe even the supernatural. Although there isn’t a crazy supernatural plot twist, it doesn’t take away from how great the game is. The game does have some unexpected turns that make the player question what is really going on but you shouldn’t go into the game expecting to have your mind blown or scared. The best way to put it is that “Firewatch” is a truly realistic adventure game. As the story develops, however the player chooses, the characters grow on you and make you feel as if they are real. That is what makes this game shine and explains why it has gotten such high reviews.
Score out of five stars For more reviews, visit thecrcconnection.com or follow the Connection on Twitter @CRCconnection
‘Deadpool’ breaks records along with fourth wall By Ebenezer Arreola earreola.connect@gmail.com Full of action-packed fun with a side of violence, “Deadpool” kicks off this year’s superhero movie genre in a notorious way. Deadpool, played by the stunning Ryan Reynolds, is the “Merc with a Mouth” anti-hero based off the Marvel comics of the 90’s. Much like his original Marvel background, in the film Deadpool, as known as Wade Wilson, is a former special forces operative-turned-mercenary. After he is diagnosed with cancer, he is offered hope to cure his illness by enrolling into the Weapon X Program. There, he is given regenerative healing powers and super reflexes but not without the price. The mutation also makes him mentally un-
stable and disfigures his entire body during the process, making him look like Freddy Krueger’s long lost brother. With a much deserved R-rating, this is not the type of superhero movie parents should take their children too see. Mirroring the comics, “Deadpool” is a bloody, violent and comedic twist in the superhero genre. Somehow, “Deadpool” is not a comedy, romance or revenge story, but a combination of all three. With non stop humor, fourth wall breaking and, let’s not forget, the violence, this movie will keep you laughing in your seat throughout the entire film. “Deadpool” is the best comic-to-movie adaptation of all time. From his signature red and black outfit to his wisecracking personality, this was the movie all superhe-
ro and comic book fans have been waiting to see. Morena Baccarin gave a superior performance as the love interest Copycat, once a call girl that falls h e a d over
heels for the wisecracking mercenary. With her attractiveness, toughness and facetious personality, she is the right kind of crazy and
smart that Wilson is attracted too. Reynolds gave an outstanding performance wasting no time on screen and the perfect candidate for Deadpool. Reynolds is Deadpool the same way Robert Downey Jr. will always be Iron Man, the perfect man for the role. After some big time flops, Reynolds hacked and slashed his way back up into his acting career with the box office success of “Deadpool,” including breaking R-rated opening weekend records with 132.7 million dollars, according to an article from The Hollywood Report. Director Tim Miller made this film true to its comic book source that all fans will appreciate. Miller himself is an avid fan of comic book heroes, which brings a perfect blend of fandom and directing. With his cunning
aspects and his love of comics, Miller took his first feature film and took it straight up Hollywood’s biggest hits. For those comic book nerds out there, there are handful of cameos and clever easter eggs throughout the movie. My advice is to keep your ears tuned to Wilson’s peculiar quotes and statements. Since it is a Marvel film, there will be a post credits scene so hold onto your tickets before you leave. “Deadpool” is a must watch in theatres, with a new refreshing twist to the superhero genre.
Score out of five stars For more reviews, visit thecrcconnection.com or follow the Connection on Twitter @CRCconnection
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Student artist shows true self in new album and I said ‘I don’t know what that is,’ but I like the vibe here, it’s just calm.” Without the time or social grouping he was used to in Oakland, Ewing “My deepest fear is being average,” is just one lyric that embodies said he had put the idea of the hipthe ideals and lifestyle of up-and- hop club on hold until now. He said coming rapper and Cosumnes River everything just started falling perfectCollege student DeWayne Ewing Jr., ly into place. His goal for the hip-hop club is to also known as Consci8us. build a community that is conscious Some have said that Ewing uses and thought-provoking, he said. his passion for hip-hop, poetry and “His idea of starting a hip-hop hard-work to better his community and motivate and inspire those club here is a perfect one,” said psychology professor James Frazee. “It’s around him. “He really stood out to me as going to fit into our multicultural and somebody who is talented, as some- diverse community that we have of body who we’re really fortunate to our students, faculty and staff. It can have as a student here and as some- be inclusive across the board because body who has the potential to create it’s a genre of music that people easily change both on this campus and, I get acculturated to.” Professor Hodgkinson said in would say, in the community,” said one of her communications classes, communications professor Georgine Ewing spoke eloquently about hipHodgkinson. hop culture and how it can build a Even though he moved here from Oakland only two years ago, Ewing sense of community. Although Ewing said he is dedihas only continued to expand his cated to the hip-hop club and what it presence in the Sacramento commucan be, his music itself is something nity. He teaches hip-hop workshops at that is completely beyond him. He the Oak Park Community Center and kept repeating the phrase “it’s bigger is also a motivational speaker for kids than me.” Ewing’s big project this year is and teens. “I’ve always been an inspiration- an album called “#Day2Day: Still al person, like a motivator, even as a Dreamin’” that he will be releasing kid I was always the positive person,” in March. He said this project shows so much of him as an artist and as a Ewing said. He said he is excited to start person trying to get through life the branching out to the entire city and best he can. “When I first started making mubegin doing his workshops at local sic there’s a lot of stuff I didn’t even schools. He has also recently started a understand that I used to talk about,” hip-hop and poetry club at CRC. Ewing said he wanted to start the Ewing said. He said that the struggles he has hip-hop club because he has loved the faced has shaped his music and lyrics indefinitely. “Every line has so much significance,” Ewing said. “Every artist may not be like that but I put so much energy into my raps and what I’m saying.” He said the meaning of his album started to form when he began focusing on the right things, surrounding himself with positive ideas and forcing himself to deal with his thoughts. He said he had to start living a day-to-day lifestyle and that is what inNicole Goodie |The Connection spired a lot of his lyrDeWayne Ewing Jr. gets in the mindset to practice his lyrics. ics. Ewing will be dropping his album some time this March. “The whole concept with “#Day2Day” was just focampus since his first day and wantcusing on living each day rather than ed to leave some part of him behind. “There’s a unique energy here looking at the big picture,” Ewing and I felt it like the first time I came said. “Just do one thing at a time.” By Nicole Goodie ngoodie.connect@gmail.com
Ewing said his inspirations naturally flow from his conversations and his music. “His music said something and I think that’s the rare commodity that he is.” Frazee said.
so good, and I think he did it before Macklemore came around a couple years back,” said Fagin. “It’s got almost everything that that record has, the catchy hooks, the great music in the back, the great lyric, so it’s got all of that stuff but didn’t reach the public.” Fagin said a lot of it has to do with getting it to the right people at the right time. But it’s not like someone can just wake up and make it big, it takes a certain level of dedication and work. “Most of us can’t get by on our innate intellectual abilities alone, it also takes hard work and I think DeNicole Goodie |The Connection Wayne really embodies Ewing and his producer and DJ, Ajani Rabb, are working that balance,” Hodgkon adding some background music to Ewing’s lyrics. This is inson said. “He’s cerRabb’s second project with Ewing. tainly talented, there’s Ewing said at this point, his mu- no doubt about it, but he also works sic has a universal message that any- hard and that’s the other really imone can take away from. Though, he portant part of the equation.” said he does like to motivate children Ewing’s producer and DJ, through his lyrics. 22-year-old Ajani Rabb, said he “I write it for kids a lot because wants people to really hear the effort I feel the younger generation needs that they put into “#Day2Day: Still people to listen to that have a positive Dreamin’.” message,” he said. “I like to say a con“I want people to understand scious message because conscious- how much work we put into making ness is not always positive because the music,” said Rabb. “So when they the world is not always positive.” hear it, they understand just off of Frazee said he could actually sit hearing it.” and listen to Ewing’s music with his But besides the amount of work children. that went into producing the album, “Many of the songs were not Ewing said he wants his audience to something I would find inappropri- understand his message. ate,” Frazee said. “In fact, any “in“You never know how something appropriate words” that were used is going to turn out for you,” Ewing said. “Even if it “Every line has so much significance. Every artist seems so negative, even if it may not be like that but I put so much energy comes off like it’s bad or even into my raps and what I’m saying.” something that comes off like -- DeWayne Ewing Jr. it’s good, you don’t know. So Musician it’s kind of going with the flow, there were used in a way that I actual- because you don’t really know.” ly respect. They weren’t used in ways What Hodgkinson said makes to diminish, they were used in ways Ewing unique and someone “we to highlight.” should be watching” is his ability Ewing seems to already be form- to actually initiate positive change ing a fan base among some of the fac- through his music and his actions. ulty at CRC. “He’s not just a musician. he’s “He reinforces the great thing not just an artist. He’s an artist with about teaching which is the oppor- real clear intent that involves comtunity to work with creative, smart, munity building and social activism,” talented people,” Hodgkinson said. Hodgkinson said. “Sometimes I think “The chance to get to be apart of their it’s difficult to bridge those two pools. academic journey is one of the great- Just producing the art can be arduous est gifts of this job.” but then to be so committed to using One fan, economics professor the art to make positive change is inEdwin Fagin, even said Macklemore credibly admirable.” sounds like he mimicked Ewing’s Ewing’s music is available on music from his first album. SoundCloud and Bandcamp under “I told him his first record was the name Consci8us.
FEBRUARY 25, 2016
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>>Opinion EDITORIAL
Students deserve free college tuition Most students would jump for joy if free community college tuition actually became a reality. Between rent, living expenses and transportation, many people give up on the idea of going to college, believing that incurring debt from tuition costs isn’t worth it. In January 2015, President Barack Obama unveiled the America’s College Promise proposal to make “two years of community college free for responsible students,” according to the White House. Students enrolled at least halftime and working steadily towards a specific program while maintaining a 2.5 GPA or higher would be granted free tuition, according to the White House. What would have saved students an average of $3,800 per year in tuition fees, failed to gain the support needed to make it work and has since been unheard of. Meanwhile, community college students are still faced with the same financial burdens. Back to square one. Though university tuition fees are much higher than those at community colleges, many community college students still take out loans. With high interest rates and deep penalties for late or non-payments, student loans can contribute to more financial woes. In a national study by the Center on Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University, students who took out student loans at the commu-
HAWK TALK
Rosalia Adams 19, biology
“I feel like using the bathroom is a human right, and we shouldn’t separate it by what gender you are, or what you identify as. It goes right back to segregation.”
Courtesy Photo
nity college level defaulted at a nearly 21 percent rate, compared to public four-year colleges that default at a 9 percent rate and 7 percent at private universities. Free or even reduced community college fees may open doors for more students to attend, which may be just what California needs. If the goal is to instill confidence in populations that currently can’t even consider pursuing education after high school because it seems so unaffordable, then let fees be cut. On the other hand, it probably
won’t do much to help graduation rates. The Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver has been waiving enrollment fees for low-income students since it was introduced in 1984, yet student success is still an issue. According to an article by The New York Times, only 20 percent of full-time community college students seeking a degree get one within three years, citing poor college preparation among students as the dominant issue. To be fair, there are students who can genuinely claim financial issues as
dominant reasons to why they failed classes or dropped out, and they will benefit from a release of tuition fees. For many others it just comes down to more college preparation, sheer hard work and persistence. So free tuition won’t solve every problem that every student faces, but it will definitely take a load off. Allow us to save money so we can worry about what we need to, passing our exams. Additionally, perhaps baby steps towards reducing fees at the community college level gives students a bit of hope, because when facing the monster of fees that higher education at a university will bring, hope is needed. Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders said he plans to make tuition free at all public colleges and universities, according to the Sanders campaign. According to an article by the Washington Times, the first things people think about when Sanders is mentioned are, “old” and “socialist.” On a brighter note, “Americans mention that he cares about people and the middle class, that he is personable and that he is intelligent,” according to the article. Now if he could carry these strengths into the November election, the idea of free tuition may show promise. But, for now, there is little hope for the checkbooks of college students. That being said, all other politicians must take notice: Students still need free tuition, even if Bernie loses.
How do you feel about the local use of public, gender-neutral restrooms? Compiled by Courtney Fong and Sky Vue
Mauricio Camacho 22, film studies
“We need to protect our women. Intertwining women and all these type of people that come through here, some people that use our bathrooms don’t even go to this school.”
Colin Williams 39, broadcasting
“The gender part is such a big spectrum. The rest of the human body to me is just your standard functioning system. We’re getting way too obsessed with it.”
Evan Nguyen 20, sociology
“Although it’s little steps one-by-one, this movement along with Black Lives Matter and along with Yes to All Women, and so on and so forth, it’s all more moving towards progression.”
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thecrcconnection.com
Women in politics objectified By Courtney Fong cofong.connect@gmail.com Women have played an essential role in American politics from the beginning, both behind-the-scenes as influential wives and directly as policy-making senators and governors. But in 2015, only six of the nation’s 50 governors were women, despite the fact that the first female governor took office nearly 100 years ago, according to a study from the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University. Women still have yet to break the glass ceiling to presidency. In September, Donald Trump watched then-opponent Carly Fiorina on television and said, “Look at that face! Would anyone vote for that? Can you image that, the face of our next president,” according to Rolling Stone magazine. These types of judgments seem to fall more heavily on women, with media focusing on female candidates’ stature, outfit and overall physical appearance. Trump’s remark shows that even when a qualified female candidate runs for office, she will be attacked for not being the ideal female. The presidency has only been occupied by men, so it’s no surprise that media and voters rely on gender roles that have been instilled in our culture for centuries. Fiorina dropped out of the presidential race this month, leaving Hillary Clinton the only female candidate in this year’s election. The media has been much more subtle than Trump, though only a little bit kinder. Many journalists have described Clinton’s speaking style as “yelling” or “screaming,” much like how one would describe a volatile, overbearing mother. A woman’s success in the political sphere is often described with masculine traits, according to a study by Kaitlyn Ryan, a student at Xavier University in New Orleans. Female traits used to describe women generally had a negative connotation, such as being emotional. “[Clinton] shouts,” said Bob Woodward from the Washington Post on MSNBC’s The
Morning Joe. “There’s something unrelaxing about the way she communicates.” Clinton’s fervor and enthusiasm are indeed a far cry from the calm, polished and poised woman society has traditionally lauded. It is likely that we find Clinton’s passionate way of speaking unnatural because society still only sees and values its female prototype. If male politicians yell, no one bats an eye. One could even say that men are expected to express power and passion through aggression. Political positions are positions of power, guidance and leadership. The people in these positions must be confident and charismatic. This image has traditionally fit men. Clinton and Obama received almost the same amount of media coverage in the 2008 election, but Clinton had more negative press, according to a study by Regina Lawrence of University of Oregon and Melody Rose of Marylhurst University in Portland. In 2012, 95 percent of the public would have voted for a generally well-qualified woman, according to a study by Gallup. But with the media and Clinton’s opponents capitalizing on ingrained gender roles, voters should recognize that their perceptions of a candidate are, in fact, twisted by sexist expectations. Media portrayal and social perceptions are both heavy influences on political elections. They manipulate our discomfort at seeing a woman campaigning to enter America’s highest position of power, highlighting Clinton’s negative attributes with unseemly female traits. To judge a person’s leadership abilities by her sex is just as judgmental, illogical, and morally wrong as assuming one’s intellect based on race. Stereotypes cheapen our political discussion. Don’t let gender detract from real discussion about candidates’ stance on issues, communication skills, ethics, core values, and experience - the real gauges of presidential success we should be looking at. Let’s evaluate candidates based on the strength of their political platforms, rather than the height of their platform heels.
Cracking Apple FBI challenges Apple user privacy By Matt Johnson & EJ Aguayo mjohnson.connect@gmail.com & eaguayo.connect@gmail.com News of Apple’s non-compliance to the FBI’s court order to bypass encryption of an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino shooters has caused an uproar, sparking arguments of privacy versus limitations of national security. The case reintroduced a growing debate: should personal privacy be sacrificed in order to satisfy government needs? The justification for electronic surveillance has long been a measure of preventing terrorism, however, the issue is also whether technology companies should have the right to block the government from accessing private communications of their users. Especially, when those communications concern threats of national security. The FBI intended to gather information that would help to determine if the San Bernardino shooters communicated with the Islamic State in preparation for the attacks. As a way to possibly prevent future attacks, it is understandable how authorities could benefit from accessing that kind of information. Unfortunately for the FBI, getting into someone else’s password protected iPhone is no easy task, and Apple’s software currently has a system in place that wipes out all data after 10 failed passcode attempts. Even after a federal court order was issued on behalf of the FBI, Apple rejected requests to bypass the software that would erase data and allow the iPhone to be fully accessible. To many people Apple may seem like the bad guy but, the truth is, Apple is within its own right to protect the security of its customers. It wouldn’t make sense to jeopardize the security of many, for a few. With promises of privacy to their customers, Apple is requested by the FBI to break those promises for reasons that haven’t even been proven to be of much help. Of the 225 terrorism cases in the U.S. since 2002, American telephone metadata initiated only 1.8 percent of investigations, according to a 2014 study by New America, a nonpartisan think tank group that specializes in public policy issues including national security. Following the study, President Barack Obama’s appointed review board also determined that the National Security Agency’s data collection program, “was not essential to preventing attacks,” according to an article by Washington Post. Additionally, Apple can’t currently break into the phone themselves, software
would have to be developed to do so. From Apple’s point of view, once that software is out of their own hands it would have the potential to end up in the wrong ones, possibly those of hackers and foreign governments. In a statement on Apple’s website, Apple CEO Tim Cook stated, “Building a version of iOS that bypasses security in this way would undeniably create a backdoor. While the government may argue that its use would be limited to this case, there is no way to guarantee such control.” Cook is right about the precedent that can be set if Apple allows the FBI to get through security to access all of the data, and the FBI is likely to demand more phones be accessed in the same manner if granted. While some may argue that it’s a one time thing and national security should come first, its been continuously proven that the government oversteps its boundaries, disregarding the rights of anyone they deem necessary. While it may start with one iPhone, it can spiral out of control quickly, just as the Patriot Act did following 9/11. What began as a measure for the NSA to track and find potential terrorist attacks, led to the data collection of over 800,000 financial transactions, more than 110,000 names and almost 200 million text messages per day, according to documents released by former NSA employee Edward Snowden. Data collection started as a safe measure to try and foresee another 9/11 type of attack, but the program was exploited and the privacy of citizens was violated. Power corrupted those in charge and personal privacy was blatantly disrespected. Apple opening up this backdoor for the FBI will undoubtedly lead to the backdoor system being exploited in the future. With more than 1 billion active Apple devices in use worldwide, according to an Apple quarterly report from January 2016, Apple would be risking its own reputation and the security of personal data among its entire customer base. People have a right to their privacy and to not have government agencies track and store all of their communications, invade their private lives and strongarm through privacy policies of companies that are earnestly upholding those policies. Protecting this country and its people should be a priority, but privacy among citizens should not be completely sacrificed in order to do it.
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FEBRUARY 25, 2016
>>Sports
Softball team suffers loss to San Mateo By Oksana Barrios obarrios.connect@gmail.com The women’s softball team lost 9-5 to the College of San Mateo Bulldogs on Feb. 20. After the Cosumnes River Hawks started the season strong with a 10-1 record, riding a nine-game winning streak into the match up, they dropped a tough one against a San Mateo team that entered 11-1, coming off a 43-2 record last season. “I wasn’t expecting them to come out as hard as they did, they’re also ranked number one and that gave me a lot of determination to try and put it past them,” said freshman pitcher Aimee Hutchinson. Cosumnes River started the game with a lot of excitement taking on a San Mateo team that was ranked No.1 in the state by the California Community College Fast Pitch Association’s coaches poll. The Hawks got off to a fast start, taking a 3-0 lead in the first inning to gain early momentum. Sophomore catcher Raechel Hooper came through first with an RBI single for the first run of the game. Freshman first baseman Makenna Noya lined an RBI double, followed by an RBI single by freshman left fielder Courtney Beatty. But Cosumnes River was not able to add on to their lead when the chances were there. They had a chance in the third inning with runners on second and third to start the inning with no outs. But they stranded the runners thanks to
LeShea Munoz | The Connection
Freshman pitcher Aimee Hutchinson in the wind up on the mound Feb. 20. Sophomore second baseman Kaitlin Pires sits ready.
two strikeouts and a groundout. “We kinda just sat there and didn’t really go after them as hard as we should have,” said head coach Kristy Schroeder. The Bulldogs, took advantage, cutting the lead down to 3-1 in the third inning. They took a 4-3 lead in the fifth inning and added four more runs in the sixth to make it an 8-3 game. CRC got back on track in the seventh inning, scoring two runs to cut
the score to 9-5. But the deficit proved too much and their rally was cut short. “We just have to play more consistently,” Schroeder said. “We had some good opportunities that just fell through the cracks and our energy was up and down, so we need to stay energetic throughout the entire game,” Schroeder said. Cosumnes River faced San Mateo in the first game of a doubleheader, later losing to Fresno City College 5-3 in the second game.
“We’re gonna come out as hard as we can right now. Coming back from a loss like that we have to come back hard,” said Hutchinson. Cosumnes River played a doubleheader on Feb. 21, winning both games against Lassen College. The Hawks won the first game 8-0 and the second game 5-4. The Hawks (12-3) next game will be on Feb. 26 at home against Lassen College. The first game starts at 12 p.m. and the second game starts at 2 p.m.
Women’s Softball
LeShea Munoz | The Connection
Hawks freshman outfielder Mickaela Robertson takes off from second base. Cosumnes River lost 9-5 to San Mateo on Feb. 20
Feb. 26
Lassen
Feb. 26
Lassen
Mar. 4
@ Feather
Mar. 4
River @ Feather River
Mar. 13
Santa Rosa
Mar. 13
Santa Rosa
THECRCCONNECTION.COM
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Women’s basketball team gains experience in tough season By Erica Trujillo etrujillo.connect@gmail.com The Cosumnes River College women’s basketball team entered the season with a young roster. The Hawks had 12 freshmen and one sophomore on the team this season, presenting a challenge for everyone. Women’s basketball coach Coral Sage knew this season would be tough, but would also provide a chance for her young team to develop and gain experience. “The girls grew a lot during the season. To be able to be competing with top teams in the conference is a success,” Sage said. Having such a young team that has to learn the coach’s system can be challenging, but Sage knew the hard work would be worth it in the end for building the program. “A lot of new freshmen and teaching a new system can be challenging, but it has its rewards to see them continue to grow and keep fighting,” Sage said. While a lack of experience in the system was an obstacle for the Hawks, the young team showed they could overcome it. The Hawks won five games this season, including three conference games. With a 5-20 record, it would be easy for a team to get discouraged. Sage constantly encouraged the team to keep pushing on through the season despite the losses. The team kept fighting, especially at the end of the season with some close, hard fought losses to Sacramento City College, American River College and a one-point overtime loss to Diablo Valley College. Now with the season over, Sage can look back at all the improvements the team made on the court and their ability to come together through the difficult season. “I am proud of how the team came together at the end and to see how the girls have rallied together,” Sage said. Being on the basketball team is not just about the team’s final record, but also about the bonds that develop between teammates
Editor in Chief: Tyler Santana News Editor: Tyler Santana Features Editor: Nicole Goodie Opinion Editor: EJ Aguayo Sports Editor: Matt Johnson Faculty Adviser: Rubina Gulati
Staff: Ashley Navarro, Brennan Smith, Courtney Fong, Eb Arreola, Erica Trujillo, Evan Pacheco, Kayleen Carter, LeShea Munoz, Oksana Barrios, Quincie Pruitt
and the ability to grow together as players. While this year’s outcome may not have been what they were hoping for in the standings, they became a closer group.
“A lot of new freshman and teaching a new system can be challenging, but it has its rewards to see them continue to grow and keep fighting” -- Coral Sage
Head Coach
“The best part of the season was getting to know my team,” said freshman guard Jill Peters. The Hawks were able to grow together and established friendships with some people they did not know before the season started. The girls also took this season as an opportunity to learn and pick up on mistakes they made this year, to make sure they don’t happen again next season. “As a team, we could have listened more earlier on in the season to the coach and start to apply it, “ said freshman guard Taneisha Dyer. “I would change the amount of effort we put in as a team,” Dyer said. The lessons the players have learned from this season and the experience they have gained, can help them put it all together next season to become a more polished, experienced team. Now looking ahead to the offseason, the Hawks know where they can improve and enhance their on-court abilities and enter next season with plenty of experience in the Hawks system With the help of the close games at the end of the season and the strides they made as players and teammates, the Hawks should have plenty of confidence to build on heading into the offseason. “Confidence was a big thing all year for the team,” Sage said.
The Connection is an award-winning newspaper published bi-weekly by the Journalism 410 & 411 media production class. Editorials and opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the students, staff or faculty of CRC or Los Rios Community College District. The Connection is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges and California Newspaper Publisher’s Association.
Letters to the Editor must be typed, signed and include the first and last name of the author and a phone number. They must be 200 words or less and may be edited for length, clarity or taste.
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NFL’s highest-paid employee cashes in from the luxury box By Matt Johnson mjohnson.connect@gmail.com In recent years, the National Football League has seen a boom in profits and the driving force behind that is the players. But the highest paid person in the NFL isn’t a player, it’s commissioner Roger Goodell. In 2014, Goodell made $34.1 million, which is $11 million more than quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the NFL’s highest paid player. Even more staggering, in Goodell’s nine years as commissioner, he has made $180.5 million. The 2014 season was a public relations nightmare for the NFL. Star players like Greg Hardy and Ray Rice were arrested for domestic violence and Adrian Peterson, the NFL’s most valuable player in 2012, was indicted on child abuse charges. While the player arrests hurt the league’s image, Goodell’s complete botchery of their punishments and the lack of investigation drew the most scorn. Rice was suspended for just two games before TMZ obtained video of him hitting his wife. Goodell then changed his ruling and suspended Rice indefinitely. It was later reported by the Associated Press that the NFL saw the video before TMZ released it, a report Goodell denied. When Rice appealed his suspension, Baltimore Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome testified that Rice told Goodell exactly what happened, which went against Goodell’s claim that he did not know Rice punched his wife before TMZ released the video. Goodell was presented a chance to put his foot down and take a stand against violence against women and children from the start, but instead he showed his incompetence in a major way. But Goodell has also made himself look out of
touch and floundering in a different area. His responses to the revelations by doctors about Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, brain damage to football players’ brains as a result of repetitive hits to the head. After Boston University researchers revealed that 87 of the 91 deceased players they’ve tested have CTE, and even the NFL’s admission that one in three players will suffer long-term cognitive problems, Goodell showed his true colors once again. When asked by reporters about the risks of playing football, Goodell said, “There’s risk in life. There’s risk in sitting on the couch,” according to the New York Times. To put the risk of football and sitting on the couch in the same sentence takes an incredible amount of ignorance. Maybe Goodell makes over $34 million per year because of the risk he takes sitting on an easy chair. If anyone had as many cases of incompetence on such a public stage, they would be out of a job. But Goodell continues to enjoy being the highest-paid person in the NFL and the attention that comes with it. Meanwhile, he fights desperately to keep retired players with physical, mental or emotional issues from receiving financial support for health care for the remaining years they have remaining in their life. Goodell is looking forward to next year though, when his salary will no longer be public record after the NFL withdrew from their non-profit status. While the NFL continues to make profits, they are doing it off the backs of the athletes on the field, the same athletes putting their bodies and brains on the line each week, while making less than Goodell.
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February 25, 2016
Tennis teams bring enthusiasm to new season By Courtney Fong cofongo.connect@gmail.com The Hawks’ men’s and women’s tennis teams kicked off their seasons this month. Even though the teams are young, the range of experience is vast, ranging from Freshman Taylor Galya’s 13 years of experience to freshman Yasmin Elsayed, who played for the first time in November. But what the Hawks lack in experience as a team, they make up for with passion, enthusiasm, and hard work. “These are young people who really have a desire to learn the game of tennis,” said assistant coach Edmund Carter. “They work very hard in learning their craft. We are a very young team, but they are a team that’s learning on the fly,” Carter said. Quinn Dobbins, a freshman, said he has seen a lot of improvement since the fall. Freshman Kevin Thai also saw improvement since he began practicing with the team this semester. “Our motivation got better,” Thai said. “We all strive to get better.” Head coach Brandon Ellis said that Dobbins went to a Sacramento State match last week to analyze the game, and had heard that Dobbins
LeShea Munoz| The Connection
Cosumnes River College’s Yashneel Krishna goes to swing at the ball against Sacramento City College on Feb. 19. The Hawks lost to SCC 5-4.
was up against the fence because he was so excited. “That kind of enthusiasm people have for tennis makes the coach’s job easier,” said Ellis. “You just sort of tap into that enthusiasm that they have. That’s fun.” Many players, including sophomore Niko Lacerna, attributed their improvement to Ellis and Carter. But the players’ own determination and
love for the game is evident. “Playing games is what I like to do,” Lacerna said. “When I’m on the court playing tennis, it’s just like playing a game. A game that I think I’m getting better at, and I want to be better at,” he said Freshman Kyleigh Carpenter said she is looking forward to becoming a better athlete and establishing
strong friendships “The one thing that’s nice about this group is that they like each other a lot, they help each other work hard, they help each other get done what they need to get done,” Ellis said.” Galya said this season she wants to take better care of her body, have fun, and try to learn everything she can from her matches.
The players and coaches seem to thrive in their positive environment. Players from both the men’s and women’s teams eagerly support each other’s growth. “My goal for our team is to just be competitive,” Carter said. “To always give their very best in every single match. And the outcomes will take care of themselves.”
New tennis coach ready to establish team culture By Courtney Fong cofongo.connect@gmail.com The men’s and women’s tennis teams began their 2016 spring season with new head coach Brandon Ellis and his plans to establish a new team culture. Ellis first started working with the men’s and women’s tennis teams during the 20142015 season as an assistant coach, before he was rewarded this year when he was named head coach. “Head coach is a lot more rewarding because you get to establish the culture and create an environment that embodies the kind of coach I want to be, the kind of person I am,” Ellis said. “I feel like that involves developing a culture that is community-oriented, cooper-
ative with each other, works hard, plays fair and treats the game as well as the opponent with respect,” he said. As the head coach for both the men’s and women’s teams, Ellis has created an environment where players feel supported by the coaches as well as from teammates. “He knows that we have to establish a bond with not just the team, but with the coaches,” said freshman Kyleigh Carpenter. “And it’s just like a really friendly environment.” Carpenter said that Ellis understands the players and how important it is to not put too much pressure on them. Ellis developed his coaching style from personal experiences with coaches in the past. He played a variety of
sports, including college basketball. “I’ve had both negative and positive coaches in the past,” Ellis said. “Ones that were more punitive [and] punishing if we did something wrong, and what I wanted to establish was not that.” But Ellis said that doesn’t mean that the players and coaches aren’t accountable, or that they don’t work hard. He uses positivity rather than negativity to encourage player development and personal growth. It’s the two things that make coaching rewarding for him and it’s what his players respond well to. “I’ve learned a lot,” said freshman Quinn Dobbins. “My footwork has gotten a lot better, my ground
strokes have gotten a lot better, thanks to coach and the workouts we do,” he said. Ellis said that his job as a coach is to offer guidance and train players to overcome obstacles. Whether it is emotional or psychological, supporting them as they balance school and tennis. “I feel like as community college coaches, our main role is to have a positive impact on the people that we have contact with,” Ellis said. “Being involved in that process is very rewarding,” he said. Freshman Clare Fernandez said she hasn’t had a tennis coach before Ellis, but she knows his willingness to connect with the players is unique. “He actually wants you to enjoy the game, to learn
from your mistakes, and just keep going, don’t give up,” Fernandez said. Ellis enjoys working with and helping others, whether they are students in his adaptive physical education class or players on the tennis court. “I don’t feel like I delude myself that I can change someone or help someone much, but I can contribute a small amount to their happiness,” Ellis said. “I’m very happy that I’m here.” Freshman Taylor Galya has been playing tennis for 13 years, but her passion for the sport has increased thanks to the support she received from Ellis and assistant coach Edmund Carter, she said. “It’s awesome to have someone care that much and really be there for you,” Gayla said.