NEWS STREAM
OC gets muddy at Irvine Lake 6
Harlem Globetrotters return
Lariat
8
Jazz day grooves with Fedchock 6
Shooting spree pressures Uber 3
The student voice of Saddleback College since 1968
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
volume 48, issue 9
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DIVERSITY AT THE MOVIES “Is Hollywood racist? You damn right Hollywood’s racist, but you’ve grown accustomed to it. Hollywood is sorority racist. It’s like, ‘We like you Rhonda, but you’re not a Kappa.’ That’s Hollywood.” 4 twitter.com/lariatnews
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Guest professors share Latino American history
KURTIS RATTAY NEWS EDITOR
Saddleback College hosted the third lecture in the Latino Americans: 500 Years of History documentary series featuring Lisa Alvarez of Irvine Valley College and Dr. Marisela Chavez of CSU Dominguez Hills on Wednesday, Feb. 17. The series has been sharing “an untold chapter of the American Story” since Fall 2015 semester. In the third program titled “Building America, Civil Rights and Diversity,” professors Chavez and Alvarez discussed different aspects of history behind Latino-American activism including the rights of farm workers, high school walkouts and women in the Chicano movement. Although the program was open to the public and shared history behind the empowerment of Mexican-Americans during the Civil Rights period, one student attended. The final program of the documentary series will be May 4 at 7 p.m. in HS 145. An additional program will be held the following day, sharing the history of Cinco de Mayo.
“Activism saved me, kept me in college, gave me life-long friends and often landed me in jail,” Lisa Alvarez said. “At least one time with Cesar Chavez himself. Such experiences and such people taught me not to fear what would happen to me if I became an activist.” The movement began in the 1960s and 1970s when Mexican-American farmworkers, led by Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, began striking for livable wages and humane living conditions. Agricultural companies were profiting while laborers existed in extreme poverty, said a clip from “Pride and Prejudice,” one of the two documentaries shown at the program. During this time, sitting down to have a meal meant the vegetables and fruit were the product of exploited workers, most of which would die by age 49, the film said. “They are unseen, they are not usually considered American during this particular period,” said Dr. Chavez, chair of Chicano and Chicana studies at CSU Dominguez Hills. “People buy their grapes and buy their lettuce and don’t think about the connection
READING/SIMPSON/FLICKR COMMONS
FARM WORKER ACTIVISTS: 1973 UFW picket line urging
boycott of non-union grapes at Safeway in Langley Park, MD.
between what they are purchasing in the supermarket and where it actually comes from.” Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta moved away from the history of violence surrounding the unionizing of farm workers, and chose a path on non-violent resistance that would gain public support. Strategies included “huelga,” Spanish for “strike,” urging a boycott of California grapes and a 300-
mile pilgrimage from Delano to Sacramento led by Chavez. These tactics led to the United Farm Workers union. Dr. Chavez also discussed the student boycott of Los Angeles schools that began March 6, 1968, during the Civil Rights period. Although there was an estimated 130,000 Latino students, their graduation rate was among the lowest in the country.
While Martin Luther King organized in the South and Cesar Chavez organized workers in California, Lincoln High School social studies teacher Salvador Castro began organizing students in Los Angeles, the film said. Salvador Castro instilled a sense of pride in his students that led to the a two-week-long period of “walkouts.” School administrators began meeting demands of the students, which included Chicano and Latino studies, and Mexican-American administrators. Dr. Chavez also discussed women in the Chicano movement who were at “triple jeopardy” because of race, class and gender. “We have Chicanos shifting the way we think about gender and shifting the way gender roles have been laid out for them,” Chavez said while showing images of female paramilitary Brown Berets in miniskirts and leather boots. The Latino Americans: 500 Years of History was produced by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association. Saddleback College is one of three community colleges in the state to receive the
Limbless evangelist preaches at Crossline Church Nick Vujicic, a traveling speaker, shares a message through his ‘Unstoppable Faith’ series AUSTIN WEATHERMAN ONLINE EDITOR
People waited in line outside Crossline Church on Friday, Feb. 26, to hear Nick Vujicic, a limbless evangelist, speak about his life and the Gospel. It would be the second appearance the famous speaker would preach at the church, located in Laguna Hills. Although Vujicic had health complications, he powered through his struggles and spoke twice a day for the whole weekend. “Nick is a one in seven billion kind of guy,” said Kenny Luck, men’s pastor at Crossline. “His story glorifies God in every aspect. He connects to the young and old, anyone lost or hurting, bringing hope to the table like never seen. I’m proud to say he is my friend.” Vujicic, born in 1982 in Melbourne, Australia, was born with-
out limbs. Facing challenges such as school, social acceptance and everyday tasks, Vujicic suffered from severe depression and was on the brink of suicide. Then Vujicic heard the story in the Bible where Jesus had healed a blind man, Vujicic gave his life to Christ and devoted his existence to spread the word of God. “At one high school, just minutes into my story, I could see some of my audience starting to cry,” Vujicic said. “One girl was so touched by how God has used me, she stood up, walked on stage and gave me a hug whispering, ‘No one has ever told me that I am beautiful or loved me.’” Vujicic’s mission is to speak to all 7.125 billion persons living in this world. He has traveled the globe from high stakes teachings to tribes in Africa to visiting schools here in America. He has spoken over 3,000 times, receiving about 100 requests to speak a
walked to the front in celebration of gaining new members to the family of Jesus Christ. From toddlers to the elderly, they followed the prayer of Vujicic, and in Christianity, became “born again”. The crowd proceeded to exit to another building where counselors awaited them, ready to help. Carlos Becerra, just one of the many counselors set to guide the newly saved, was touched by Vujicic’s teachings. AUSTIN WEATHERMAN/LARIAT “I love him,” said Inspirational: Nick Vujicic, born Beccera. “God has giftlimbless, guest speaks at Crossline ed him to do what he Church, Laguna Hills, Feb. 26. does… it is really God working through Nick.” week. Individuals who came and sat During Friday night’s service, with volunteers received a Bible Vujicic held an altar call, which and other materials along with brings forth anyone who wants encouragement to pursue their reto accept Christ into his or her lationship with Christ. hearts. Over 120 individuals rose “You wouldn’t just leave a to the occasion and gathered near baby alone to survive,” Becerthe stage, teary eyed and sobbing. ra said. “As a church, we want The crowd cheered as the persons
to encourage them, love them, and help direct them to a good church.” Among the group, Greese Ramirez, an 8-year-old from Mission Viejo, accepted Christ for her first time that night. Although Ramirez was choked up about the whole experience, she managed to talk. “I live Mr. Nick,” Ramirez said. “I liked the things he said and now I want to love Jesus.” Vujicic heads to Florida to finish his “Unstoppable Faith” series with his family and supporters. ON THE WEB
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2
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
SADDLEBACK COLLEGE
POLICE★BLOTTER
The following are selected incidents as reported from the daily media log, courtesy of the Saddleback College Police department. ■ LOT 9B Tuesday, Feb.16, 12:27 p.m.
A report of a hit and run occuring in the dirt lot in Lot 9B was filed. The report has not been completed. ■CDC Friday, Feb. 19, 3:58 p.m.
A report of a white Ford Escort doing donut turns in front of the Child Development Center. ■ LRC BUILDING Monday, Feb. 22, 11:28 a.m.
A report was taken of a student being followed into the bathroom inside the Learning Resource Center ■ PE 100 Tuesday, Feb. 23, 11:01 a.m.
A report was taken of theft/larceny inside the locker room in classroom PE 100. ■ ON CAMPUS
Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1:25 p.m.
A report was taken of vandalism on campus, specifically a car that had been keyed. ■ LOT 9B
Monday, Feb. 29, 10:52 a.m.
A car was illegally parked out of stall in Lot 9B. The report has been completed.
CONTRIBUTIONS The Lariat gladly accepts contributions in the form of guest articles and letters to the editor from students, faculty, staff and anybody else involved in the Saddleback College community. Please submit any articles or letters to lariatnews@gmail.com.
ADVERTISING The Lariat offers advertisers many opportunities to reach a diverse audience through color or black and white ads. For rates, call 949-582-4688 or contact the advertising manager at lariatadvertising@gmail.com
News
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Irvine Lake may return to glory Recent drownings and plans for new renovations have caused temporary closer of lake JACOB TATHAM STAFF WRITER
The run down Irvine Lake is set to be temporarily closed, but a return to glory may be imminent. Irvine Lake has been a popular reservoir for fishing, boating, camping and public events in Santiago Canyon since 1941. However today, insurance difficulties and the severity of the drought have deteriorated it’s condition. Circumstances have only gotten worse after the 2012 drowning of Juan Flores and Thomas Rivera, followed by the 2015 drowning of Clarence William Brumfeld. The lifejacket controversy and lawsuits surrounding their deaths resulted in a recent prohibition of boating. Now the entirety of the lake’s fishing attraction may be stripped by the end of the month as well. As it stands now, the Irvine Company plans to transfer it’s 75 percent share of recreational rights over to Orange County. The complication involves the Serrano Water District owning the other 25 percent, giving them the rights to fishing, boating and camping regulation. “The County is working with the Irvine Company to take over all recreation opportunities on Irvine Lake,
JACOB TATHAM/LARIAT
STRUGGLING: What once was a completely filled reservior, now sits extremely dry on Feb. 25.
The Irvine Company is currently trying to take over 100 percent responsibiliy of Irvine Lake, so that they can “enhance” the experience for boaters and people fishing. including fishing, with the intent to enhance and expand them for boaters and other users,” said communications manager for Orange County Jean Pasco. Although the county’s negotiations with SWD are still up in the air, a pending offer is in the works that may bring life to the dying lake. Serrano has stated that they are open to a deal that will eventually transfer their 25 percent share over to the county, giving OC full control of the property and it’s operations. In return, SWD wants to retain their RV storage they have on the land as well as re-
ceiving a share of the annual income that the county takes in from the lake. For the time being however, no such settlement has been agreed upon and the revenue and popularity of Irvine Lake is seeing a downward trend. On top of this, the drought has brought the lake to it’s lowest water levels ever according to Serrano’s general manager, Jerry Vilander. Because of these conditions, Irvine Lake is set to be closed until the deal is made and drought’s effects improve considerably. On Feb. 23, the staff of the lake was cut down from 27 to three in order to accommodate
for the lack of activity they have been receiving. “County staff still hopes to be able to reach a mutually satisfactory solution with the water district regarding its 25 percent recreation rights which would be brought for consideration to the Board of Supervisors,” Pasco said regarding any progress in negotiations. The immediate future of Irvine Lake may be seeing some gloomy days, but Orange County has firmly expressed determination to restore with a long-term plan. Only time will tell if the lake will become the outdoor hot spot it once was.
Opinion
LARIATNEWS.COM
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
Will ‘Pablo’ get Kanye his $25M back?
3
ampus comments
Tell us about your strangest Uber experience.
JACOB TATHAM
“Saddleback’s student-run newspaper since 1968” editor-in-chief
Kseniya Taranyuk managing editor
Breanna Greenup associate editor
Nick Nendad news editor
Kurtis Rattay
opinion editor
Nick Alaimo life editor
Matthew Kirkland features editor
Sasha Baharestani sports editor
Angel Grady photo editor
Betsy Johnson online editor/advertising sales Austin Weatherland staff writers
Dominic Ebel Jacob Tatham Jordan Rangel Julia McCloskey faculty advisers
MaryAnne Shults Tim Posada
instructional assistant
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Shooting spree puts Uber’s background checks into question NICK ALAIMO
OPINION EDITOR
The next time you go to order an Uber, maybe think twice. An Uber driver in Kalamazoo, Michigan, has been arrested after a seemingly random series of shootings on Saturday, February 20th. The prime subject, Jason Brian Dalton, allegedly shot eight people Saturday night. Six were killed and the injured includes a nine year old girl. In between the horrific shootings, Dalton supposedly picked up passengers. After hearing of the atrocities on the news, one of Dalton’s passengers who wished to be anonymous gave a statement
to CBS earlier this week, saying “And I halfheartedly joked at him and said… ‘You’re not the shooter are you?’ And he said ‘No… and I said ‘Are you sure?’ And he said ‘No, I’m just really tired,’”. According to Michigan officials, Dalton had a rating of 4.73/5 and had completed over 100 rides. This has called the Uber background check process into question. Uber claims that in order to check their drivers, the drivers’ names are run through seven years of county and federal courthouse records, a multi-state criminal database, national sex offender registry, Social Security trace and motor vehicle records, anyone with a history of violent crimes, sexual offenses, gun-related violations or resisting arrest. This in-depth background check still may be for naught as crimes with active Uber drivers
are becoming quite commonplace. An Uber driver whom underwent a background check allegedly took a drunk female passenger to his home and raped her in Houston, Texas last April. The State of California filed charges that Uber’s background checks failed to find 25 drivers with criminal records including convictions for assault, sex offenses, child abuse, and murder. Uber is no stranger to the courtroom. A class-action lawsuit against the taxi-takeover mogul regarding its wording of “safe” rides in its app cost the company $28.5 million. If you’ve taken an Uber from 2013-2016, you may be entitled to your admittedly small settlement. If the judge approves the settlement, an email will be sent to any registered riders with an option to be paid via credit card or rider account. Maybe take a Lyft next time.
Is your voting a right or a myth?
BETSY JOHNSON PHOTO EDITOR
With the presidential election just around the corner, people are faced with a choice of who will become the next president of the United States. But is the person we are voting for going to be the next president? The United States Electoral College is the system used to vote for the president and vice president. Every four years people walk into a booth and select who he or she wants to run the country. But what most people do not know is that the citizens do not directly elect the president or vice president. What really happens is the voters directly elect designated intermediary, also known as the elector or mediator. They are selected by according to each states particular law. The Fifteenth Amendment say, “the right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.”
People are used to the “winner-takes-all” system, which is not required by the Constitution. It turns out that Americans are voting for electors who have pledged to support a nominee for the U.S presidency. When the Founding Fathers were writing the Constitution and deciding how to select a leader for the country, they came up with a plan that worked in their favor. They decided to select a group of people representing each state to make the choice for the people. Hence, making it so people are really voting for electors who vote for us, our individual votes don’t matter. This is why even when a president wins the popular vote and it seems like he has won the election, it is actually the votes of the Electoral College that truly make the decision. Electoral College is an undemocratic and ridiculous system that gives vastly more power to different voters depending on the state they live in. For those living in a small state like Montana where there is less
people they end up having more say then a place like California where there are more people. If your state has less people that state has more power, making the voting process completely uneven. Your vote can count for less just because of where you live with this unfair process. The Electoral College also creates swing states. This means that the presidential candidates can ignore most of the country since only a few small states make the ultimate decision on who will become the next president and vice president. Swing states like Florida, Ohio and Philadelphia have so much power that at least 80 percent of the states had no voting power outcome. Meaning people who want to vote might as well stay home. When voting day comes, you will be voting for electors of the state. They are supposed to represent whom the people of the state want for the next president. But really they are mainly a group of retired politicians and party flacks who choose who they want.
Thomas Thornburg, 20 Art
“We’re driving away from a place we’re going and a car crashes into us and drives away. We had to talk to the cops and try to explain what happened.”
Griffey Albaugh 19, History
Uber under fire for safety
“I told the driver I was a college student. He gave me a ride for free.”
Adrian Reyes 22, Fashion Design
Lariat
SEN. MARK WARNER/ FLIKR [CC BY 2.0]
HITCH A RIDE: An Uber can be called almost anywhere through the company’s mobile app. Ratings are shown for drivers who have experience, but is that enough to feel protected?
“It was New Year’s Eve and the Uber driver and I started singing “Hello” by Adele.”
Brooke Hovas 19, Nursing major
FOR FULL STORY VISIT LARIATNEWS.COM/OPINION
“Our friend on FaceTime was talking s**t on our Uber driver.”
“We were in Savannah and they took me to South Carolina and we got lost.”
Caitlin Cross 24, Communications
Kanye West has never had trouble making headlines in the past and due to the recent release of his new album, this week has been no exception. Shortly before his Saturday Night Live performance on Saturday, the massively successful rapper shocked the world with the claim that he is currently 53 million dollars in personal debt. I found this information very hard to believe due to the popularity of Kanye’s high selling albums, concerts and merchandise, however he explained that he got to this point through failed moves in the fashion industry. In 2013, he collaborated with Adidas to manufacture his own line of sneakers among other products that have not sold as well as he hoped. Despite the massive debt he is in, I wouldn’t expect Kanye to be out on the street any time soon. He explained on Twitter that he and his family are still living comfortably, yet he is concerned about his freedom as an artist. “I need access to more money in order to bring more beautiful ideas to the world.” said Kanye. “If I spent my money on my ideas, I could not afford to take care of my family. I am in a place that so many artists end up.”
Brandon Pacini, 19, English
STAFF WRITER
“It was almost like he was playing a video that had like nine different types of music in it and it would change every 30 seconds to a different kind of music.”
Chris on #OscarsSoWhite ww
ply don’t trust them—their perception is that women can’t handle funds.” Actor Bill McGuire who teaches in the college’s theater program, references friends in the industry who have fallen victim to perception. “I have friends that are people of color in the industry, they are called to do the criminal roles, to do the gangster roles, and they always have to have an accent,” McGuire said. “These Yale trained actors can speak beautiful verse, and if they can’t do ghetto, they don’t get work—because that’s the perception.” Ultimately, McGuire said once the negative perception changes, so will the attitude in Hollywood. “There is a lot more commonality than there is difference. It’s really the perception of difference is much greater than the actuality of difference,” McGuire said. “If we can be-
John Boyega, left, as Finn Right: Oscar Isaac as Poe Dameron. “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” faced controversy when the first trailer premiered depicting black man and a woman in leading roles.
Chris Rock made the most noise at the Oscars, with his cut and dry monlogues that put the Academy in their place.
“The film industry still functions as a straight, white boy’s club.”
“Welcome to the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the White People’s Choice Awards! You realize, if they nominated hosts I wouldn’t even get this job. You’d be watching Neil Patrick Harris right now.” “Not everything is sexism, not everything is racism. They ask the men [on the Red Carpet] more because the men are all wearing the same outfits. If George Clooney showed up with a lime green tux on and a swan coming out his ass, someone would go, ‘What you wearing, George?’” “If you want black nominees every year, you need to have black categories. You already do it with men and women. Think about it: there’s no real reason for there to be a men and women category in acting … It’s not track and field. You don’t have to separate them. Robert De Niro’s never said, ‘I better slow this acting down so Meryl Streep can catch up!’” “Is Hollywood racist? You damn right Hollywood’s racist, but you’ve grown accustomed to it. Hollywood is sorority racist. It’s like, ‘We like you Rhonda, but you’re not a Kappa.’ That’s Hollywood.” “But why are we protesting this Oscars? It’s the 88th Academy Awards, which means this whole no-black nominees thing has happened at least 71 other times.”
ten times when it becomes a conversation in the media, minorities and women are often lumped together. You don’t hear one without the other and it’s shameful because both are separate entities and both are under represented,” Brady-Jenner said. “It’s an insult to both parties. A conversation is always good if it leads to some type of action and follows a productive path, but honestly, this has been going on for decades and Hollywood is not only well aware of the double standard, it fosters it.” However, some conversation is better than no conversation. “The film industry still functions as a straight, white boy’s club,” the study said. The controversy has sparked responses from organizations like the SAG/AFTRA union, whose “It is a core value of SAG-AFTRA that our strength
USC report, “Inclusion or Invisibility”
DISNEY PICTURES
#HollywoodSoWhiteMaleStraight Following #OscarsSoWhite, a USC study finds that all major studios earn a 20 percent diversity rating. Sadddleback instructors and students speak out, saying perception is a key component in Hollywood’s lack of diversity.
Y
By Breanna Greenup our heart is racing, you’re nervous and you walk into a room full of people. It’s a room full of emotionless faces and blank walls. You introduce yourself and you’re told to start whenever you’re ready. You recite your lines, you may or may not receive feedback and then you leave. This all happens in less than five minutes. In those five minutes you are judged on a number of factors. All factors central to the cast in a role. However, along with the talent, your “look” is central in the decision process. Often times this is tied to race, ethnicity and gender. At least this was the experience of former actress, Britney Vargas, 22, a student at Irvine Valley College.
Vargas is a first-generation American whose parents come from Columbia. In high school she found her passion for theater and decided to pursue acting at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts. After graduation, she landed an agent and began auditioning. Vargas recalls that she knew when she chose this career path that the industry would be tough. However, what she didn’t realize, her ethnicity would have a heavy impact on her getting the role she was after. “I realized that getting into this industry would be very hard and I knew my ethnicity would be a factor,” Vargas said. “But I didn’t think it would have such a heavy impact on being casted.” Often times Vargas would walk into an audition and they would tell her that she didn’t look right. “I didn’t fit the stereotype of what
they were looking for—you either have look very Hispanic or very white,” Vargas said. “There really was no grey area.” After almost a year, of disappointment, Vargas decided to take a hiatus from Hollywood and pursue a degree in psychology. She plans to possibly pursue acting in the future, but decided it was in her best interest to take another path. Stories like Vargas’ are not unheard of—considering that in a recent report done by USC on diversity in Hollywood, only 5.8 percent of speaking characters on screen Latina, compared to the 71.1 percent that were white. With numbers like that, it is no wonder why Vargas might have chosen to leave the industry. In terms of race, USC’s report, titled “Inclusion or Invisibility” finds that Hollywood is very still very
whitewashed. And considering that the report was done over the course of the last 10 years, displays that Hollywood has not taken the steps to change this statistic. Despite these facts, there are still thousands of actors and actresses who still live this reality every day, still working to get their opportunity to be seen on screen. USC’s study analyzed race, gender, hypersexualization and sexual orientation. Aside from race—women are already at a disadvantage. The study said that out of all the speaking roles in film, only 28.7 percent were women. Saddleback College’s April Cubbage, sociology and women’s and gender studies instructor, said the USC report did not include the type of speaking roles these women played, which makes an interesting point considering that women are often cast in stereotypical, hypersexualized roles. “It would be interesting to see of the 23.7 percent, what those actual speaking roles were—it would give us more insight on how we view women,” Cubbage said. However, Cubbage praised the study for doing the report in proportion to the population, making these
statistics even more impactful. “They did this report in proportion to the population—they compared the number to the US census. That is really powerful because it is showing true invisibility on the screen,” Cubbage said. This issue is not just limited to the people in front of the screen, but behind the screen as well. Only 3.4 percent of all directors in film are female. Julie Brady-Jenner, who teaches Women in Cinema at Saddleback, said these numbers have only decreased. “You have to remember that these numbers have been declining for a long, long time and the power players are not terribly interested in changing it,” Brady-Jenner said. “The people who green light films and decide what will be brought to the screen, are young Caucasian men.” She also said that diversity is tied to perception, something women have to overcome. Perceptions make decisions. “Dr. Martha Lauzen, the go-to researcher from SDSU for this topic, has confirmed that many men who ‘run the business’ don’t want to give women large sums of money to direct a film,” Brady-Jenner said. “They sim-
gin to see that, then I think we can begin to see things start to change.” And change often starts with a conversation—a conversation that was recently started by the hashtag #oscarsowhite, when for a second straight year, no persons of color were nominated for an Oscar in acting categories. The hashtag sparked controversy with actors like Jada Pinkett-Smith making the pledge that she was going to boycott the Oscars. The actress also posted a video on Facebook talking about the issue. “The Academy has the right to acknowledge whomever they choose, to invite whomever they choose,” Pinkett-Smith said in the video. “And now I think that it’s our responsibility to make the change.” Chris Rock host of the 2016 Academy Awards was even pressured to boycott the Oscars, but stuck to his commitment. The comedian took no liberties this past Sunday in addressing the issue head on. “Why are we protesting this Oscars? It’s the 88th Academy Awards, which means this no-black nominees thing happened at least 71 other times,” Rock said on the show. Despite the recent controversy, this is an issue that has been going on for years. Sociology Instructor Allison Camelot said this issue is not unique to Hollywood, and society still has a long way to go to make lasting changes. “I will say that this has been an issue discussed in academics for many decade and is only now gaining some attention from the media,” Camelot said. “Minorities are underrepresented in all leading areas and positions of power in our society. This further indicates that we still have a long way to go to achieve equality in our society.” Professor Julie Brady-Jenner also says that another problem is that of-
is in our diversity. The union president stated in a press release that would take those in power to create change. “There does seem to be momentum now towards inclusiveness,” added SAG-AFTRA Executive Vice President Gabrielle Carteris. “But we won’t really see change happen until those in authority take responsibility and choose to make decisions based on authenticity. These decisions directly impact which stories and people are present and, more importantly, which are missing.” To keep the conversation going, to work to change perception and strive to overcome this lack of representation in Hollywood is the goal of this movement. THE BECHDEL TESTING OSCAR For a film to pass the Bechdel test, it must: 1) have at least two women in it 2) who talk to each other 3) about something besides a man Fail “The Big Short” “Creed” “Bridge of Spies” “The Revenant” “Sicario” “Straight Outta Compton” Dubious
(they past but the subtext is about men)
“Danish Girl” “Ex Machina “The Hateful Eight”
Pass “Brooklyn” “Mad Max:Fury Road” “The Martian” “Room “Spotlight” “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” “Inside Out” “Steve Jobs” “Carol” “Cinderella” “Joy”
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
Life
LARIATNEWS.
Grammy nominated artist inspires students
John Fedchock and the Saddleback Big Band raise money for the jazz department MATTHEW KIRKLAND LIFE EDITOR
World class trombonist John Fedchock took center center stage with the Saddleback Big Band for Jazz Day on Saddleback’s campus Saturday, Feb. 27. The sound of jazz was ringing through the theater, and Fedchock’s own piece, “Havana,” had the crowd tapping along. Fast rhythms and long solos seemed to be the mood of the night, inspired by the career of Fedchock. Fedchock’s Grammy nominated composition “You and the Night and the Music” was the lasting impression of the concert, providing some inspiring trombone play both by Fedchock and the Saddleback students. It was the perfect way to end Jazz Day 2016. “Damn. Its like the only word that comes even close, besides the ones I know definitely can’t go on the paper,” Ramsey Hampton, a Saddleback Big Band Trombonist, said. “He is just world class. There is only a few people at that level and he is definitely one of the guys.” The concert was impressive and raised money for Saddle-
MATTHEW KIRKLAND/LARIAT
GROOVIN’: World renowned trombonist John Fedchock feels the music and performs with the Saddleback Big Band during Jazz Day 2016 at the McKinney Theater. This event showcases student talent and provides funding for the jazz department. back’s Jazz department, but Fedchock believes that these types of events serve a greater purpose. “You hope you give them some valuable information that they can use, but I think the main thing you really hope for is that you inspire them, and theres no guarantee you are going to inspire all of them, or even a large portion of them. It might just be one kid out there,” Fedchock said, “But I was that one kid many years ago that got inspired by something like this. So it is a special thing
and you don’t even find out about it until years and years later.” Saddleback’s Big Band started off the night by playing “Barbecue and Breakfast” by Thad Jones, “Peacocks” by Jimmy Rowels and “Let’s Fall in Love” by Arlen and Koehler. Each band member was introduced by performing a solo within the songs during the first half of the show. The second half of the concert started off with “Caravan,” a piece written by an amazing
Dog days of winter MATTHEW KIRKLAND LIFE EDITOR
Owners and their dogs enjoyed warm weather and clear skies as Tara Berro, a trail guide and nature specialist, led them on paths along the cliffs of upper Newport on Sunday, Feb. 28. Many different dog breeds were in attendance on the hike including pugs, chihuahuas, pit bulls and German shepherds. All sizes and shapes of dogs could be seen and the mood was friendly. The hiking group was as diverse as the dogs ranging in age and where the people traveled from. People came from southern and northern Orange County and some dedicated dog owners, who had hiked with the group before, made the trip down from Los Angeles. The hike can be very rewarding for both the owners and the dogs. Spending time with nature, exercising and meeting new people are all positives that come out of the hike for the people and the dogs. “I think its just people wanting to get out and socialize in the community, outside, in nature, with people and their dogs,” Berro said. “Its a great thing to do because most people have gotten a little bit stuck behind their computers.” The hike around the back bay of Newport is challenging, span-
big band trombonist named Juan Tizol. Fedchock followed it with another original piece of his own titled “Big Bruiser.” The energy between Saddleback’s Big Band members and the renowned Fedchock was a joy to see. Having the chance to meet someone of such high stature with similar goals can sometimes be nerve racking or even intimidating but the band members stepped up to the challenge. “I try not to focus on the nerves and I look forward to the work we
2,000 get down, dirty at Irvine Lake mud run KSENIYA TARANYUK EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MATTHEW KIRKLAND/ LARIAT
GET ACTIVE: Owners and dogs experienced warm weather and clear skies as they hiked the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve with trail guide Tara Berro on Sunday, Feb. 28. ning a little over an hour in total time and tiring out most of the dogs, but was completable by all. Berro and volunteers from, The Healthy Spot, assisted any owners or dogs who needed help on the slightly more treacherous parts of the path. They were able to provide knowledge on both their products and the surrounding area. The Healthy Spot, a dog wellness company that provides pet owners with organic food and eco-friendly toys, sponsor the Howls and Hikes events and provides volunteers. Their mission is to inspire healthy pet lifestyles by creating authentic experiences and fostering community, one pet at a time. “The Healthy Spot is basical-
ly like the whole foods of dog food,” Berro said. “It is organic, it is whole, it doesn’t have all the crappy byproducts and things that dogs should not be eating.” Howls and Hikes plans different hikes all around Southern California with dozens of people showing up on average for each location. “[The Healthy Spot] is getting lots of response to these. So I think last time was about the same, thirty or forty people.” Berro said. Multiple animal websites and blogs have events all over Southern California aimed at networking dog owners and helping them and their dogs achieve healthy lifestyle.
get to do with [Fedchock], because in everything he does there is a bunch of wisdom coming out of what he’s got to say, through his mouth and through his horn.” Hampton said. “Its just a thrill and an honor to work with a world class person like that and get to be immersed in their presence, because every time that happens you just get better.” This year’s Jazz Day was hosted by jazz department chair Joey Sellers and was made possible by Angels of the Arts.
People from all over Orange County got muddy this past weekend at Irvine Lake’s annual mud run for their Spring Break at the Lake series. Sponsors included Shock Top and KROQ radio. “Spring break at the Lake is our first mud run of a two race series here at Irvine lake,” said mud run director Paul Rudman. “We moved it up to February this year and then we have another one coming in the summer called Summer of Mud.” The run is an approximate 5k course beginning and ending at Irvine Lake. The course is partially on the road and partially on trails, including hills, water, professionally built obstacles and over a dozen mud pits. Participants may compete as individuals or as part of an open sized team with an unlimited number of runners. The start of the race consisted of separate “waves” with the first wave of individual timed runners at 9 a.m. and then timed teams at 10 a.m. Then untimed individuals at 11 a.m., untimed teams at noon, and then the kids run at 1 p.m. The race brought out many vendors and volunteers spread
out all over the lake grounds help attendees stay safe and full. “Today’s race we’re helping raise the South Bay Spartans Woman’s Rugby Club,” Rudman said. “They provide a bunch of volunteers and they’re all out here.” The volunteers were wearing bright yellow and could be found at multiple tents, at the start and finish line and all over the course itself. “As the volunteers they go out on the course move people on, hand out water and if someone is having trouble getting over an obstacle or something they help them over,” volunteer Tammy Irizarry said. “Then we also have volunteers at bag check so when you check your bag its in a secured spot and they make sure everything is safe over there.” The race brought out approximately 2,000 people this last Saturday morning but has brought out as many as 8,000 people three years ago. The race started in 2009 with only 800 people attending the first race rapidly growing into something much larger. It started in the front part of Irvine lake and eventually had to move further back to were there was more parking and space available to meet the needs or the events growing popularity.
Sports
LARIATNEWS.COM
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
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Gauchos ‘beat up’ Spartans, advance in playoffs Saddleback had major production from eight players and they never gave up the lead after gaining it early in the game NICK NENAD
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The No. 1 seeded Saddleback College basketball team continued on their quest for a second consecutive state championship by defeating MiraCosta College, 79-54 on Saturday. The Gauchos came into the game as the Orange Empire Conference champions, after going undefeated in conference play, holding a 27-1 overall record. In front of a packed house at Saddleback that saw a mixture of loud MiraCosta fans and the usual hometown followers, the Gauchos never lost the lead after going up 4-2 very early in the game. Although never regaining the lead, the MiraCosta faithful were into the game the entire time and some of the Saddleback players noticed the rowdiness of the opposing crowd. “I try to cancel that out, I didn’t really hear [the fans],” Saddleback guard TJ Shorts said. “I think they might have been calling my name out a little bit ... that doesn’t really affect me.” The Gauchos grabbed a quick lead, going up, 10-4 in just less than five minutes into the game. The Spartans defense was on top of its game though and they eventually almost tied the score with 9:42 remaining in the first half, the score being 15-13. From that point, Saddleback gradually increased their lead and played better defense. Going into halftime, the Gauchos had a 3420 lead. MiraCosta’s first half defensive strategy was to disallow Saddleback’s big men to get into the paint. They executed this strategy
NICK NENAD/LARIAT
CUTTING: Saddleback guard Devonte Klines (No. 24) drives towards the basket, as players look on, against MiraCosta College in Saturday’s playoff game. Klines had 17 points, which led the Gauchos for the night. Saddleback will play Bakersfield College in the third round of the playoffs. successfully, causing the Gauchos to shoot more three-point shots then they normally do. “The change of their defense bothered us a little bit and we were settling for [three-point shots],” said Saddleback head coach Andy Ground. “It was out of the ordinary, we took 12 [three-pointers] in the first half and you usually want to shot about four or five.” When the second half started, the Gauchos and Spartans each went on small scoring runs for around eight minutes. The score was 47-35, with 12:05 left in the game, MiraCosta having only cut Saddleback’s halftime lead by two points. One of the big reasons for the Spartans inability to mount a comeback was Saddleback’s game plan to stop MiraCosta’s top scorer, Buddha Boyd, who was averaging over 22 points per game. The Gauchos’ guards Devon-
“We definitely started out shaky, we weren’t rebounding the ball and we were taking a lot of [three-pointers]. [Coach Ground] told us he wanted us to pound it in the paint when the second half [started] and that’s exactly what we did.” T.J. Shorts, point guard te Klines and Charles Trotter had the responsibility of doing so and when the game was over, Boyd only had 15 points. “Devonte Klines and Charles Trotter did a great job taking turns on him, wearing him down, denying him the ball,” Ground said. “That was our game plan defensively.” After the midway point of the second half, Saddleback took over control of the game and never looked back. The Gauchos moved
their lead up to 25 points at one point and they cruised to victory, 79-54. Saddleback pounded the paint in the second half—something the coaching staff stresses every game and stressed at halftime. This was a big reason for the solid second half of play from the Gauchos. “We definitely started out shaky, we weren’t rebounding the ball and we were taking a lot of [three-pointers],” Shorts said. [Coach Ground] told us he want-
ed us to pound it in the paint when the second half [started] and that’s exactly what we did.” Multiple Gauchos contributed to the win in a big way. Klines led Saddleback in scoring with 17 points and he contributed five rebounds and four assists. Forward Breaon Brady had a double double, gaining 16 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Shorts and guard Josh Mishler led the team in assists, five and had 12 points and 11 points respectively. Guard Maurice Jones contributed 13 points and got seven rebounds. Ground believes his team’s depth, which he says goes 12 players deep, will be a key part to their continuing playoff run. In Saturday’s contest, nine players got solid playing time and five players were in double digits in the point category. “That’s helped us all year long and that’s a goal of ours every year, to have ten guys that can play,”Ground said. “I’ll be honest with you, we probably got more guys that can play, but it’s too hard to play them in a game.” Saddleback will now defend home court against Bakersfield College (23-5). BC beat Moorpark College in their first playoff game. The Gauchos have not played BC this season. “We just know that they’re a good team, they live in the paint and they’re probably gonna be the best team we’ve faced this year,” said Saddleback forward Brandon Fagins. Ground thinks Bakersfield will be a tough opponent, because their style of play contrasts with Saddleback’s style of play and they have size. “It’ll be very difficult. What they do well is stuff that we don’t [do well]. They really drive [the ball] well and we have trouble defending the drive,”Ground said. “They’ve got a good big guy, that can really score, he’s one of the better players in the state, and they got some guys that can shoot it, so it’s gonna be a difficult task.” Saddleback plays Bakersfield, Wednesday at 7 p.m. at home.
Women’s softball has winning conference record Despite losing record, Gauchos show promise during Orange Empire JULIA MCCLOSKEY STAFF WRITER
JORDAN RANGEL/LARIAT
FULL SWING: Sadddleback softball infield Drew Moore, 19, chemistry, follows through during practice. She gets ready for the next OEC game.
The Saddleback softball team achieved another victory last Wednesday at Trani Field, earning a 5-3 victory against Fullerton College. Saddleback is now 2-1 in conference play, placing them third in the Orange Empire Conference standings. This was the Gauchos second consecutive victory. Saddleback’s game on Friday, Feb. 26, versus Orange Coast College was not as victorious. Orange Coast
managed to score four runs while Saddleback shied in at two. Then on Saturday, Feb. 27, Saddleback only managed to score two runs, while Palomar got nine for the win. Gauchos head coach Nick Trani was upbeat about the win, despite the two losses Saddleback suffered. “I thought the team played well and took advantage of Fullerton’s errors by coming through with some clutch hitting,” Trani said. “It was an important conference win against a very good
Fullerton team.” Wednesday’s game was hallmarked by a slow moving Saddleback team initally. Then, in the bottom half of the fifth inning, the Gauchos managed to find their pace and ended up tallying three runs and score two more in the sixth to snag a 5-1 lead. Fullerton aided in Saddleback’s quest for victory by committing three errors, qualifying the Gauchos for three unearned runs. Saddleback now has a 6-7 overall record after all three games, and only conference games from here on. Saddleback will play Cypress College next Wednesday, March 3 on the road.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
Sports
LARIATNEWS.COM
ANGEL GRADY /LARIAT
FOOLING AROUND: Harlem Globetrotters teasing the referee behing his back by dancing to foul call. In their retro uniforms the Globetrotters each had their own dance and style while moving up and down the court making fun of the referee. This was another part of the show that earned lots of laughs from the crowd.
Harlem Globetrotters returned with fun to Saddleback Globally-renowned comedy basketball show fills gym with laughter ANGEL GRADY SPORTS EDITOR
World famous Harlem Globetrotters played their final of two games at Saddleback College on Monday night. Fans filled the gym and nearly sold-out seats to watch the Globetrotters take on the World AllStars. The game was loaded with comedy and basketball skills. Fans awed the dribbling, dunking and
the way players moved the ball across the court. “Oh it was just fun,” said Harlem Globetrotters fan Lorna Hixon. “Just the razz ma dazz, the boys loved it.” The tricks performed, as well as the humor involved had the audience anxious for what to expect next. Players spun the ball on their fingers, head, body and even face. Constantly making the long distance 4-point shot, created by the Globetrotters helped them keep the lead throughout the game. The battle between the two teams was not the primary focus of the game. Involving the community and making sure those in the stands had a great time was more important to the Harlem
Globetrotters. “What you see on the court is only a small percentage of what we do off the court,” said Globetrotter guard Scooter Christensen. “For us, we love that so much cause it makes it more personable for our fans, you never know who’s life you’re touching and I think that’s probably one of the best parts of being a Globetrotter.” The comedy basketball team involved several fans at random from the stands in their show. When doing so, they made the audience laugh and gave away signed jerseys and other Globetrotter memorabilia for participating. Those who purchased a Magic Pass had the privilege of meeting
players, getting autographs and learning basketball tricks. They also have the chance to shoot with the stars and takes photos before the game. The Globetrotters sold-out seats for their first and only appearance last year at Saddleback. Their arrival received such a positive response from the community, that this year they pursued the college for the two shows. “They kept bugging me all year because it had such a great turnout,” said dean of kinesiology and athletic director Tony Lipold. “So they wanted to do two this year, so we did two.” The Harlem Globetrotters came out in their throwback uniforms as they continued to celebrate 90
years of touring, this time with the fans gathered at Saddleback. Over the years the players have changed, however, first Globetrotters left legacies behind. “If you ask anybody in the world about the Harlem Globetrotters, there’s two names that you will hear,” Christensen said. “Meadowlark Lemon and Curly Neal were the peers that came before us. We’re dedicating our season to those two guys that paved the way for us.” The Globetrotters show combines comedy, family entertainment and amazing basketball skills. The Harlem Globetrotters will continue celebrating 90 iconic years of providing smiles, sportsmanship and service to millions.
Saddleback ends losing streak with conference win NICK NENAD
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Saddleback College women’s tennis team defeated Orange Coast College, 5-3 on Thursday. After a four-game losing streak before Thursday match, the Gauchos finally got the win they needed and it was in conference play. Saddleback’s head coach, Jay Amos, attributed the losses and poor play to injuries that caused him to move players up to spots they weren’t necessarily ready for. “We went on a losing streak, because we were missing a couple of players.” Amos said.w Saddleback played well to start the season, before they went on their losing streak. The Gauchos got two close victories against Grossmont College
and Santa Barbara City College and they blew out Cuyamaca College, 9-0 to start the season 3-0. The Gauchos lost their first singles match, which involved team captain Ashley Glick, 6-2, 6-2, but went on to win four consecutive matches after that to take a big early lead. OCC won the final singles contest 6-2, 6-3 to end the winning streak, but Saddleback had 4-2 lead after all was said and down. Moving on to doubles, the Gauchos again lost the first contest badly 8-2, but came back and won the next match, 8-3 and the rubber match, 8-5 to secure a victory in doubles and a win in the overall match. During the match, Amos said that the reason the team had a chance to win was because they
APU SPORTS INFORMATION/COURTESY
NICE HIT: Saddleback’s team captain Ashley Glick hits a serve toward her Orange Coast College opponent in Thursday’s matchup. were very balanced between their doubles and singles players. He ultimately believed that doubles had a slight edge. “It’s a pretty balanced team, but I think that our doubles is
really strong though,” Amos said. “We should be strong all the way down [the lineup] in doubles.” Amos also said that Saddleback’s No. 1 doubles team,
Glick and Dominique Willette were ‘”going to be a tough out for anybody they play.” Ironically, Glick and Willette lost their doubles match against OCC. The Gauchos followed up the OCC victory with a 5-4 loss to Ventura College. From here on out, Saddleback will play conference opponents. When asked about if he stresses winning conference games over non-conference games, Amos gave an interesting response. “I never talk about winning, I talk about getting better,” Amos said. “I tell the girls that the only player that they have to be better than, is the player they were yesterday.” The next opponent the Gauchos will face is Cypress College on the road at 2 p.m.