October 15, 2007 - MiraCosta College
Transcription
October 15, 2007 - MiraCosta College
3|OPINION 4|ENTERTAINMENT 5|FEATURE Oscar goes X Robert Blayney: an American hero Halo 3 Sucks! thechariot October 15, 2007 volume 14/issue 9 MiraCosta College Bush approves increase in Pell Grant SHEENA GIBBS Content Editor Photo by Tyler Jones Student artwork echoes through the quiet Art Club President Marilyn Huerta (left) and Vice President Holly Eskew discuss their artwork in the Quiet Room. The two students are presenting True Colors, an exhibit of their earlier works, through October 19. TYLER JONES Editor-In-Chief The Art Club is presenting True Colors, a showcase of artwork by club president Marilyn Huerta and vice president Holly Eskew. The women are holding the show in the Quiet Room, in the Student Services building (3400) on the Oceanside campus. The Quiet Room was designed to allow students a place to escape the noise and bustle of other areas of campus. Students use the room to study, read and take a break from classes. However, because the Kruglak Gallery is booked through the end of the semester, Huerta and Eskew are using the Quiet Room because it is the only place available to them for displaying students’ artwork. “If students want to show their work, the Quiet Room is our play pen. What we need is a backyard,” said Eskew. INSIDE this edition MCC art students would like to see a students don’t want their work in the space designated solely for the display Quiet Room out of fear of it being of their work. Without a gallery stolen,” said Huerta. Thursday solely dedicated for morning, Eskew exhibiting students’ noticed that quarters artwork, artists miss used as part of a the experience of mixed media piece Art is not just learning to prepare were stolen. and host a show, price “Not having a place a picture on pieces for sale, and to exhibit student’s the generally gaining artwork puts people wall--it knowledge of the like Marilyn and business of art. “Art me in a position of connects us, is not just a picture on activist rather than Marilyn the wall—it connects artist,” said Eskew. Huerta us,” said Huerta. There are eight Unlike the Kruglak wall mounted pieces Gallery, which offers on display: “In Shut limited hours, the Quiet Room is open Down” 1993, mixed media on canvas; during the Student Center hours, and “Hour Glass Decision” 1992, mixed student artists wonder whether their media on canvas; “Jill” 1993, mixed work is vulnerable to theft. “Some media on canvas; “Blue Girl” 1995, oil OPINIONS 3 " REVIEWS 4 " JOBS on canvas; “Fruit” 1997, oil on canvas; “self” 1997, oil pastel on paper; “Collections of the Unknown” 1997, oil on canvas; “Banana” 1997, mixed media on canvas. There are also three table displays: “Conceptual Water” 2007, mixed media; “To Smoke or Not to Smoke” 2007, mixed media; “Time and Feathers” 2007, mixed media. Kruglak Gallery Director Diane Adams could not be reached for comment. Huerta and Eskew have plans for future exhibits of student artwork in the Quiet Room and at the “Blue Gate Gallery,” a display case at the art building. True Colors runs through October 19. 7 On September 27, President Bush signed The College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007. The approval of this legislation will increase aid for needy students attending California’s community colleges. Enhanced assistance will be provided to students in a variety of ways, including an increase of the maximum Pell Grant disbursement. The current maximum amount awarded to students is 4,310 dollars per year, but in the fall of 2008, the Pell Grant increases to 4,800 dollars. The grant will continue to increase each academic year until 2012, when the award reaches its cap of 5,400 dollars per year. The act will eliminate the provision of the Pell Grant known as "tuition sensitivity." This provision prohibits California Community College students from receiving Pell Grants equivalent to community college students from other states. “Tuition sensitivity is something that most of us have been fi ghting against for a long time,” said MCC’s Director of Financial Aid JoAnne Bernard. With the elimination of "tuition sensitivity," MCC students will automatically receive up to 134 dollars per year. The additional aid may be put towards books, daycare, transportation, health care and other student expenses. Bernard explained that students receiving the Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver, along with the increased Pell Grant, may no longer have the need to borrow money to cover the remaining costs of their education. “[This legislation will] be a huge help to MCC’s neediest students,” said Bernard. The Access Act will also reduce interest rates on federally supported student-loans. Once approved, studentloan applicants in 2008 will receive the reduced interest rate of 6.0 percent from 6.8 percent. There will also be greater flexibility on college-loan payments for active members of the military. NEW! Toes up, toes down 8 2|SPORTS October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College thechariot Spartan soccer “The liberty of the press is a blessing when we are inclined to write against others, and a calamity when we find ourselves overborne by the multitude of our assailants.” -Samuel Johnson Editor in Chief Tyler Jones Managing Editor Crystal Harris Content Editor Sheena Gibbs Asst. Managing Editor Aaron Durst Senior Staff Writer Byron Burke Staff Writers Billy Buster Nick Funk Chris Ahrens Jillisa Badaraco Jade Harrington Staff Photographers Randy Ommen Matt Gose Mike Landon Layout Alicia Juarez Distribution Manager Randy Ommen Faculty Adviser Jane DeRoche The Chariot is the official student publication of MiraCosta College and is published on a weekly basis. Articles, opinions, cartoons, letters to the editor, and advertising do not reflect the ideas or opinions of The Chariot staff, MCC faculty, staff, or administration. The first copy is free. The Chariot reserves the right to edit articles and items for space, and the right to refuse to print articles or items that contain libel. Letters may be sent to the editor by emailing The Chariot at charioteditors@gmail.com. All letters must be signed. Anything submitted to The Chariot becomes property of The Chariot. The Chariot reserves the right to cut letters for space or edit for libel. Every effort is made to print all letters in their entirety. The Chariot is a First Amendment publication Telephone: (760) 757-2121 x6254 FAX: (760) 795-6761 E-mail: mccchariot@yahoo.com Newsroom: MiraCosta College One Barnard Dr. Room 3441 Oceanside, CA 92056 The Chariot is a member of: stringing losses together BYRON BURKE Senior Staff Writer Nobody ever said winning was easy. The Spartan soccer team is fi nding out the hard way. The start-up program that fl ourished in its fi rst few weeks has now gone a full month without a victory since edging out College of the Canyons on September 14. Perhaps spoiled by early riches, the team is in desperate need of a conference victory to keep pace in the Pacific Coast Conference. The month of October began with a tough road schedule. The Spartans traveled to Chaffey College and found themselves on the losing end in a 4-0 scalding. The loss was less indicative of the team’s performance than it was of Coach Camperell’s decision to rest six starters in preparation of the conference game to be played two days later. A loss outside of the conference has no consequence on the Spartan’s hopes of making the playoffs, making the decision to sit the starters an easy one for Camperell. The strategy unfortunately did not yield the results the team had hoped. The home opener on October 3 saw the Spartans derailed by Cuyamaca College who had come into the game at an overall mark of 2-6. Cuyamaca managed to post 3 goals, while the Spartan’s closest attempts only managed to kiss the crossbar and nick the goal post, rendering the team scoreless for the second straight game, and a second straight conference loss. The contest on October 6 was a tough one to swallow. While the Spartans clearly controlled the fi rst half of play, they were unable to put a goal away early on. With the game tied 1-1 and only two minutes left on the clock, the College of the Desert scored on a breakaway goal that appeared to be a clear offside call that went unnoticed. Having been outscored 9-1 in the fi rst week of October, the Spartans overall record has plummeted from 4-1 to 4-7-1, and a conference record of 0-2-1. While the team is struggling offensively, Mitchell Greene and Jason Belcher have climbed into the top five in offensive points in the Pacifi c Coast Conference. The conference schedule will repeat itself beginning October 19 against Palomar College. Despite the Spartan’s struggles, the conference is still within reach as each team has suffered at least one loss or one tie. Fantasy Corner The Bye-Week Bug has bitten all of us this week with another four teams getting a free pass. Not to mention the injuries…oh so many injuries. So this week, it’s about time we take a look at good waiver-wire moves to complete your roster in time for Sunday. Waiver Savior’s QB Jason Campbell (WAS)—Don’t look now, but Jason Campbell is becoming an enticing option week in and out. He is owned in only 30% of all leagues, and is cutting down on his INT’s and replacing them with touchdowns. He’s a solid start Notes from the nosebleeds BYRON BURKE Senior Staff Writer No Padres and no Chargers this weekend. That doesn’t mean we all have to sell out and actually have a productive Sunday. There are still plenty of sports to be played, so if you fi nd yourself with bye-week envy, here are some NFL storylines you may want to follow. Kansas City vs. Oakland. It sounds as interesting as a healthcare debate between Batman and Superman. Both teams have been a chronic nightmare on offense. But a strong defensive performance thus far has kept both teams in the hunt for the AFC West. The contusion to Chiefs QB Damon Huard has opened the doggy door for rookie Brodie Croyle to take over as the long-term starter. He looked great in the preseason, but a rookie is bound to make plenty of mistakes against a secondary as competent as the Raiders’. If we see the old Daunte Culpepper for Oakland, the Raiders can expect to walk away with this one at home. If we get bad Daunte, Kansas City is well capable of capitalizing on his makes. Regardless of the outcome, the loser of this game will fi nd it diffi cult to stay in the race for a division in which the Chargers and Broncos are still heavily favored. Arizona @ Washington. Twotime MVP Kurt Warner looks like he may take the snaps for the rest of the season in Arizona. Matt Leinart’s injury puts an end to any debate over the quarterback platoon the Cardinals had been successful with. Meanwhile, out on the East coast, D.C. fi nally has a football team. Jason Campbell has looked good, and halfback Ladell Betts is still well capable of stepping up if Clinton Portis’ knee stalls again. Arizona has an opportunity to make a run at the Seahawks for rulers of the NFC West, a division Seattle has gone unchecked in the last few years. Washington needs to win this game 2nd Annual MCC Tennis Tournament The Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles matches will be on October 20, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles matches will be played on October 21, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. A 10 minute warm-up is available at the scheduled start time. Forfeit if player arrives more than 10 minutes late after the start time. The cost is $10 for singles and $20 for doubles teams. against Arizona. RB Najeh Davenport (PIT)—Fast Willie Parker can’t seem to fi nd the end zone this season, and Najeh is not only getting carries in the red zone, but he’s getting looks in the passing game. A few yards and a couple of TD’s go a long way if you’re desperate for a running back. He’s high risk, but high reward. WR Nate Burleson (SEA)—With Shaun Alexander slowing down by the game, the ‘Hawks are going to have to rely on Hasselbeck and company more and more each week. With the injury to Deion Branch, Seattle’s number one target, Burleson looks like an enticing option. He’s bound to scatter points against a struggling St. Louis team. MCC Intramurals to keep pace in a competitive NFC West. Tennessee @ Houston. Vince Young still hasn’t forgotten about being snubbed by his home-state team. Houston had the opportunity to draft Young in 2006 with the fi rst pick, but opted to take defensive end Mario Williams instead. Williams, a bust in his rookie season, made the Texans front offi ce look foolish for drafting him over Young, who has been a one-man wrecking crew since day one in Tennessee. The tables have made only a 90 degree turn so far, as Mario Williams is showing the potential that made him the top pick, and quarterback Matt Schaub has done everything the Texans could have wanted to legitimize the franchise. Keep in mind, Young is 2 and 0 against Houston in his young career, the second win granted by his 39-yard touchdown scramble in overtime, reminiscent of his National Championship win over USC as a senior at Texas. The guy knows how to win. With the Padres out of the playoffs for the fi rst time since earning backto-back division titles, GM Kevin Towers has to begin the long process of looking towards 2008. There are now questions that must be answered in the off-season. Is Trevor Hoffman still the same guy that took us to the big dance in 1998? If he isn’t, who can succeed his legacy as the number one stopper in the league? Inexplicably, Hoffman blew two opportunities to thrust the Padres into the playoffs again. The uncertainty of his contract status, and the fact that he was waxed by the Rockies in the wild card playoff may have Towers and Hoffman examining their options. If this is the case, walking in Hoffman’s shadow is no easy job. Heath Bell may be the immediate answer, especially after watching him dominate a loaded Rockies lineup to keep the Padres in the game. He’s tough, nasty and throws hard. He’s got all the makings of a stopper, up to and including a chin-devouring goatee. Aside from the bullpen, the Padres will have some holes to fi ll via free agency. Centerfi elder Mike Cameron may test the waters, and has expressed interest to return to his hometown of Atlanta. While there are some big names on the market to replace him, Andruw Jones being the fi rst in mind, Padres brass probably won’t offer a lucrative enough deal to lure a big name. Ditto for Torii Hunter. A pickup like Aaron Rowand, however, would be a dream signing. He’s a blue-collar guy who hits well and plays defense, and always plays tough. Let’s not also forget that Ken Griffey Jr. has likely played his last game as a Red, and trade rumors involving San Diego had been mentioned in the past. If the Padres were ever likely to pull the trigger on a name as big as Griffey, the time is now, considering he is 37 already and won’t demand a long-term contract. Assuming the Padres don’t re-sign Milton Bradley, left field will be wide open as well. Scott Hairston looks primed to take over the opening day spot in left. His bat has been white-hot since joining the Padres in a questionable trade that made GM Kevin Towers look like a genius. Should the Padres choose to move in another direction, Luis Gonzalez wouldn’t have to travel far, and he would probably only command a one-year deal. Adam Dunn, however, would provide power in a lineup without a big threat. It’s unclear as to whether or not the Padres will exercise a $4 million club option on second baseman Marcus Giles. He was a relative disappointment, and lost his starting job to injury. Though it was fun to have the Giles brothers batting 1 and 2 in the order, it seems imminent that the Padres will re-up elsewhere at second base. Bringing back Mark Loretta would be a popular decision with fans, and a relatively cheap option for a quality player. The pitching rotation may be the biggest question mark of all. With only two out of fi ve spots fi lled in the ’08 season (Jake Peavy and Chris Young), the Padres will probably look to a combination of the farm system and free agency to fi ll in the blanks. Let’s assume the Padres exercise the $11 million dollar option on Greg Maddux to keep him around. There are only two spots left to fi ll. Kevin Towers loves Blue Jays pitcher Josh Towers, but was unable to attain him through trade last season. There’s no reason he can’t work something out with the Jays in the off-season to bring him in. The fi fth spot in the rotation may be impossible to predict. Jack Cassel showed promise in his limited action. If his roll continues on through next spring, he may very well fi ll out that 4th or 5th spot in the rotation. Whatever the case may be, the Padres will probably use the same philosophy in the years past to build this year’s roster. A couple of old guys, a couple of young guys, no major signings and another year of leaving fans unsure if this team can contend. Women’s Soccer schedule Men's soccer schedule October 17 MiraCosta @SD Mesa 3:15 p.m. 10/17 -- 3:15 p.m. at Imperial Valley College 10/19 -- 3 p.m. at Palomar College 10/24 -- 1 p.m. at San Diego City College 10/26 -- 1 p.m. at Cuyamaca College 11/02 -- 3 p.m. at Southwestern College 11/07 -- 3 p.m. at San Diego Mesa College 11/09 -- 3 p.m. at Imperial Valley College October 19 MiraCosta @SD City 3:00 p.m. October 24 MiraCosta @IVC 3:00 p.m. October 26 Grossmont @MiraCosta 3:00 p.m. |3 October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College OPINION Halo 3 is the other woman SHEENA GIBBS Content Editor Since the release of Halo 3 on September 25, women around the world have found themselves seemingly “invisible” to their signifi cant others. I fi nd myself bewildered by how a guy can play Halo 3 all day and wonder why his girlfriend seems upset? Now before all of you “gamers” are offended, I would like to provide some insight to how ignored your girlfriend may feel. Last week I came home to fi nd my boyfriend and his three friends, all in their early twenties, huddled like children on the fl oor around the TV. Without any sign of acknowledging my presence, I was not at all surprised to fi nd that they were engrossed in the hypnotic trance of Halo 3. Worse than the highly addictive Myspace, Halo 3 operates as a social network where people can play simultaneously, either against each other or as a team. The ultra-popular online-gaming has driven players to spend over 650 million hours of online gaming, according to Microsoft. The lack of moderation has caused my frustration with Halo 3 “play-time” (PT) to mount, as my boyfriend and his friends play an average minimum of 14 hours per week. I do not have a problem with the game itself. I initially viewed nearly all video games involving weapons and violence as inappropriate past-times that in no way could have any positive effects. After a number of debates, I realized that I may have been a bit harsh with my judgment. In an attempt to appease my hostility toward video games and understand what is so intriguing about Halo 3, I decided to sit and watch my boyfriend and his friends play. After only a few moments, my astonishment of hearing the “Live” camaraderie shared by gamers from around the world was replaced with the shock of hearing what sounded like children using profanity. I then began questioning the importance of Xbox Live, as most of the verbal messages were complaints along the lines of “Stop f***ing ‘screenlooking’!” Apparently they have never heard of peripheral vision, as it seems impossible not to look beyond the perimeter of one screen. Aside from the vulgarity emerging from “Live,” the amount of time devoted to “PT” irritates me, and probably your girlfriend, the greatest. Countless times I’ve heard, “We’re only going to play for an hour, babe,” but of course that hour turns into three or four. Granted, Halo 3 is newly released so playing all day and night for the fi rst couple of days is understandable. But after nearly three weeks of close to daily “PT,” I am confounded by how I see those around me all-consumed by the sequel’s “interactive storyline.” I fi nd no value in going out of your way to “interact” with people across the nation when you have a room full of friends and loved ones being ignored, even if you just want to piss someone off by “corpse-humping” them. And don’t think that playing late at night will solve any problems, either. Waiting until your girlfriend leaves or goes to sleep before breaking out the controller will just make her feel like a chore, as if you are required to spend time with her before you can play. Plus, players will more than likely lose sleep and awake irritable the next day, making things worse in both their personal and professional life. After the Experience Points (EXP) Ranking System was explained to me, I have concluded that anyone who has the goal of becoming an MM Skill(ed) Offi cer cannot possibly contribute to a healthy, intimate relationship. There’s a reason those “hard-core” gamers who hang out at places like LanWorks all day do not have girlfriends, unless of course they are fortunate enough to fi nd girls who are as lame as they are. I do not doubt the devotion of the Bungie Studio staff, as the detailed and creative graphics are astoundingly realistic, and the originality of the story is surprisingly innovative. However, for those who think “inviting” your girlfriend or wife to play Halo 3 with you will pacify her complaints, think again. She may give in a couple of times, but understand that she will probably not enjoy it. I was only watching my boyfriend play and I could not care less about who had the latest “running riot” or “running rampage.” In my eyes, Hollywood has the “Elites” and the movie "300" has the “Spartans.” Let’s keep it that way. Fodder from the Spider’s Web SPIDER VERTIGO Commentary Notes on Room 101. November 21, 2521. Room 101--horrors beyond human comprehension thrive, fester and lie in wait for the next “patient” to walk through the door. Deception. “Where you at?” still tap dances across my temporal lobe, the migraine headache his partner. A male anatomy and sex drive enhancement jingle pounds in my head, the refl ection of some smiling lobotomized cretin, oblivious to the world around him, screams at me from beyond the grave that without his damned product, I am not a man. Friends, I am no longer a man, not even human. What happened in Room 101 has irrevocable altered my being, starting with my DNA. My appearance has morphed into something I no longer recognize. I used to think fi ghting for my right to speak freely, to communicate with you in the past about the future you are making, held some place of importance in me. Now there is nothing. A Nietzschesque blackness shrouds itself coldly around my soul. I have tried to read my old books, but the urge to go out and BUYBUYBUYBUYBUY until every cell in my body is satiated (and that can never be). I lay down my old friend Literature and spend some time with my new friend, Greed. However, I cannot escape the venomous tendrils of twenty-fi rst century marketing. I see half-naked people hawking foo-foo juice and hamburgers looking like people screaming in a house and cars being described as “exquisite” and “epitome of luxury” and I have heard every example of bad grammar possible—Where you at?-Chewphoria-Gotta have Sweet—echoing in my brain but I am fi ne, now I am fi ne, away from the sensory bombardment of your advertising. How can you tolerate such offenses on the mind? I am wondering if life is any better today than it was in your time. We don’t have the aggressive and mindnumbing marketing you do, but we SPENDSPENDSPENDSPEND more than you could imagine. We have substituted the desire to buy goods with the need to buy them, the need to belong, the need to be a part of Society, the need to not be left behind, the need to be on the cutting edge, but foremost, the need to be loved. The door to my cell is open and I am standing in the threshold wondering move to make next. Do I give into the marketing madness that I endured for more than a week, or do I try to salvage what is left of my humanity and individuality? Am I really a person, or a product of the media and marketing campaign wars going on around me? Is there anybody out there? 4|ENTERTAINMENT MCCArts calendar October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College Two Spoons stirs in Image by Randy Ommen Art “Boom Time” Mixed media by Irene Abraham, Moya Devine, Cheryl Griffi ths, Kathy Miller and Judith Parenio October 9 – November 1 Dance An informal dance demonstration Room 204 at MiraCosta College, San Elijo Campus November 5 at 7:30 p.m. Free admission An informal presentation by students in MiraCosta’s dance classes, showcasing ballet, jazz, modern, tap, ballroom, commercial, Latin and world dance forms. A demonstration of Pilates mat work will also be included. Theatre Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward Directed by Tracy Williams November 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 at 7:30 p.m. November 11, 18 at 2 p.m. Preview performance, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. General admission, $12; seniors/ staff, $10; students, $8 Preview night: All seats, $8 Tables rise, vases fl y, and doors bang in this masterpiece of witty repartee where the spirit world collides with the English drawing room. This perennially popular 1941 comedy tells the story of Charles Condomine, a novelist who invites a medium to hold a séance as research for his next book. The situation goes haywire when the eccentric mystic conjures up Charles’ dead wife, although she’s visible and audible only to him, a situation especially displeasing to Charles’ living second wife. Music “Defi nitely Dvorak” Saturday, October 20, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, October 21, 2 p.m. MiraCosta Theater, Oceanside campus General admission, $10 students and seniors, $8 Fans of Antonin Dvorak will be treated to a program featuring some of his symphonic music; the program will include his G Major Symphony (No. 8). “Frequency Sneak Peek” Friday, October 26, 7:30 p.m. Studio A, Creative Arts Complex, Oceanside campus General admission, $10 students and seniors, $8 MiraCosta’s new vocal jazz ensembles will be featured in one of the fi rst concerts in the recently opened Creative Arts Complex. Come get an exclusive fi rst look at the exciting music these talented students will present under the direction of Matt Falker! AARON DURST Asst. Managing Editor On a Friday night with not much to do near MiraCosta College, the 2Spoons Coffee house emits a warm glow at College Plaza. The atmosphere is so relaxing that any thought of productivity is quashed by fresh roasting coffee and the buzz of blenders. Table top games and books are strewn about, taking up residence where the last user left them. The furniture is fashionable. The art is appealing. The service is satisfying. Offering free Wi-Fi Internet access brings in the laptop loungers, while the lattes lure in the coffee connoisseurs. Entertainment varies by night, but starting at 8 p.m., expect music from MCC bands or endure the open-mic night. Outside the café, tables and chairs form an audience seating area while the performers set up closer to the shop with their instruments and amplifi ers. With prices ranging from $2.50 to $4.75 per beverage, 2Spoons Coffee serves up strong coffee and sweet smoothies. Muffi ns, cookies and pastries line the display case at the front counter while the espresso machines sit austerely at the back with the ever-ready blenders. Parents and children enjoy the environment with plenty of carpet and beautiful images hung on the walls. “I tried to make it look like a living room,” said owner Derek Caputi. Reviews Photo illustration by Alicia Juarez "Lifeline" thrives More than macaroni with soul jam on the “Grill” MATT GOSE Photographer TYLER JONES Editor-In-Chief In a decade where music is over saturated with overdubs and synthesizers, it’s nice to hear an album like Ben Harper’s “Lifeline.” The latest offering by Harper and his band, the Innocent Criminals, delivers another semi-acoustic, soul jam gem. Each of the album’s eleven tracks exudes a feel reminiscent of the golden days of Motown echoing the likes of Marvin Gaye and Wilson Picket. With its many catchy rhythms, it’s easy to overlook the lyrics. Covering a wide range of subject matter, from the Dylan-esque preaching in “Fight Outta You” to the downhearted lover’s lament in “Put it On Me,” one may hear something not commonly heard in most modern music—integrity. Despite its many similarities to the classics, the album somehow maintains a fresh sound rivaling today’s chart toppers. If simplicity and sincerity is what you’re into, give Ben Harper’s “Lifeline” a listen. relaxation T h e Macaroni Grill breaks from the conventions of a chainoperated Italian restaurant. The first noticeable difference is the restaurant’s atmosphere. The Macaroni Grill is dark and lends itself to an intimate dining experience not found at the Olive Garden.The food, though, is where the Macaroni Grill saps all other Italian chains of their olive oil. Appetizers are fresh and use simple flavors to enhance the food rather than bombard the taste buds with twenty fl avors in one dish. Entrees consist of pizzas, pasta (my favorite is the create-your-own pasta using a selection of more than 21 ingriedents), and Garfi eld’s favorite, lasagna. The appetizers go from $2 for a salad to $13 for the seafood sampler, and entrees are no more than $20, with the Boursin fi let mignon reigning supreme. Reservations are not required and casual attire is appropriate. All who enjoy good Italian food need to go out to Escondido and see why the Macaroni Grill is my favorite restaurant. X-rated fi lm voted as If only scars can kill year’s Best Picture CHRIS AHRENS Staff Writer T h e Academy of Arts handed over three Oscars to “Midnight Cowboy” (1969). Picking up an additional two Oscars, one to Best Director John Schlesinger, the other for Best Screenplay to Waldo Salt, still leaves room to boast three more nominations for performances by Jon Voight, Dustin Hoffman and Sylvia Miles. With classic lines like “those rich women are begging for it, paying for it too!” and “I’ll snatch you bald headed,” you may even chortle. Schlesinger’s genius in artistically framing and illustrating each scene allows viewers to experience the reality of the movies “issues.” Filming techniques brilliantly clutch the feel of the underground New York fi lm movement, concentrating on the importance of strong human connection, sexual or not. Although the same film is now rated “R,” it remains in the original text. Those who appreciate directors who don’t cop-out to censorship will enjoy this fi lm. NICK FUNK Staff Writer Does anyone remember that movie “Scarface” and the spectacular shootout at the end of it? The video game takes place where the movie left off, where Tony Montana is having a big shootout with gangsters at his home. First of all, the writers should have never rewritten the ending or even try to make the movie into a game, even though the game answers such questions like what happend if Tony Montana survived. It might have been a cool sequel to watch if he did survive, but in this game he does, and his empire is taken over by a rival mob. He wants to take back what is rightfully his, creating an interesting take on Scarface. The game is like Grand Theft Auto where a person goes on missions, but the missions of this game are boring, a real yawn. The action for this game could have been more challenging and I found myself wanting to go sleep right after playing it. Gamers, if you see this game on the shelf don’t even bother with it. Spend your money on something that's a little bit more entertaining. |5 October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College FEATURE Who's the hero here? MCC icon memorializes Robert Blayney JILLISA BADARACO Staff Writer On a warm afternoon I found myself under an impressive tower marooned with rust. I was told it used to chime. Closing my eyes, I tried to imagine its sound. A robust ringing fi lls my mind. Silly as it may sound, this tower provides solace. Absentmindedly brushing off a cobweb, I ponder about the young man who was the reason for the assemblage of such a structure. Who was Robert Monroe Blayney? According to a letter from his high school principal (on display in the library lobby) he was a “fi ne scholar” and “gentleman.” Also an awardwinning artist--a hero. Bob Blayney was honored with a purple heart medal during World War II, the war he never lived to see come to an end. It happened in France, 1944. Robert Blayney died in combat. Chances are Blayney might have attended MiraCosta College had his life not been so regrettably short. Parents Dana and Eleanor highly valued education. Both left to serve as petty offi cers in the Navy when World War I was declared. Twentynine years after the passing of their son, the benevolent Blayneys decided to bestow a gift upon MiraCosta College’s campus. A skilled designer, Dick Young, was employed to craft a 44 foot carillon. $25,000 later, the Blayney Tower was born. A service was held on June 1, 1973. There were 300 spectators at the event. “To us this tower is our gift of love to MiraCosta College. It symbolizes not only the very deep love we have for our son, Bob, but it stands for much more love involving many people. We hope it will infl uence the young and old for years to come. This is our way of expressing lasting affection and respect for our talented son…a true American,” said Eleanor. What a number of students and staff do not know is the Blayney Tower’s current location is not its original one. At fi rst, the tower sat smack dab in the middle of MiraCosta College. Obviously, things have changed since the groovy times of the seventies. Only a few years ago, Blayney relocated to the front of the administration building. Blayney Tower was rededicated on Veteran’s Day 2004. At the rededication, a recording of Eleanor’s emotive speech was played. Now, a giant clock tower is the school’s main landmark. Maybe a clock is an upgrade? After all, the clock tower is very practical. Who needs a watch when a larger than life clock sits atop a perch that is visible from nearly every part of the campus? Memorial Schemorial! Little known fact number two: MCC’s clock tower is also a cell phone tower in disguise. Under pounds of plaster and ceramic lay wires and waves. We traded in Robert’s chimes for potentially tissue warming rays. Try not to worry too much. There still is no proof that links towers and power lines to cancer…yet. At least it did not come out of our pocket. Cingular paid for “all upgrades and improvements, plus $600 dollars a month for using the location” according to MiraCosta College Classified Senate Council Minutes September 10, 2002. Eleanor compared her son’s memorial to the Statue of Liberty, stating her wish for Blayney Tower to stand for the freedom for which he died. Are not memorials supposed to stay where they are? The Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial and the Statue of Liberty are special, treasured and a source of pride. They are symbols of something honorable. At MiraCosta College, we are privileged enough to have such a piece of our own. Are towers built to be moved f r o m location to location as if they were some seasonal decoration? As if they were Christmas lights, strung for a few months, then back to the garage when the weather changes? Robert’s legacy deserves dignity and respect, not to be tossed about from location to location like some ugly painting you wish you could trash but cannot on account of it being a gift from a loved one with questionable taste. Photos by Matt Gose 6|STUDENT LIFE They sure schooled me on that! JILLISA BADARACO Staff Writer I make my way around this hilltop haven of a school, I cannot help but overhear odds and ends of the conversations around me. Common topics of discussion: the great weekend so-and-so had or gossip about the scandalous actions of some brazen female that shocked us all. (“Oh, NO she didn’t!”) But the majority of the chatter is whining about poor grades in a class where the teacher really “sucks.” P e r h a p s students simply do not know the myriad resources available to them. My favorite is the Tutoring and Academic Support Center (TASC). For most students, that passing grade is not going to fall into your hands or manifest itself onto transcripts without honest effort, so supplement lessons with students who are just like me and you, but you know, smarter. Ever heard of the 80/20 principle? “The Pareto principle (also known as the 80-20 rule, the law of the vital few and the principle of factor sparsity) states that, for many events, 80 percent of the effects come from 20 percent of the causes.” Find more info at About. com. I have visited the Tutoring Center a couple of times and every tutor I worked with was very patient and friendly without a sliver of October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College Need money for your education? Visit the Scholarship Office condescension. That study session with Ben (utterly charming fellow) and later Erika (sweeter than saccharine) turned out to be surprisingly effective. Because I did not have to scour my 20 pound book and re-teach myself all the problems that mangled my mind in math class, my study time for the week was diced in half! What I am getting at is I changed my actions so that the 20 percent of the time I spent studying accounted for 80 percent of my results (great test grades and a more profound understanding of the material). Walking through the doors of the learning center reminds me of a scene in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”--the one where all the spoons and forks perform a sort of cabaret dance for Belle before serving her dinner. Like the singing silverware, college is packed with math, anthropology and science whiz kids who are so ready to serve, so eager to help you kick ass in a tough class. Though the Principle of Least Effort seems more appealing, why not push yourself a little more? Few sights are sweeter than a giant red A on an exam or paper you gave everything you had to write. The natural high induced by high grades is all MiraCosta College students ought to know. Stop reading this and go make a tutoring appointment. MiraCosta Foundation scholarship The deadline is approaching for the MiraCosta Spring 2008 Scholarship. The application deadline is October 23. Over $500.00 in awards is available. Applications are available on both campuses or can be downloaded from the Scholarship website: http:// www.miracosta.edu/StudentServices/ ScholarshipProgram/index.htm. Genentech Scholars Program For eligibility and application, visit: http://www.gene.com/gene/about/ community/education/scholars.jsp. The application deadline date is November 30. Awards up to $7,500. SEMA Scholarships are available for students interested in a career in the specialty automotive industry. To find out more about SEMA Scholarships and to download an application visit: www.sema.org/scholarships. The application deadline dateis April 18, 2008. Help Scare Away Hunger The MiraCosta College Service Learning Program will sponsor the 2nd annual food drive, “Scare Away Hunger," October 15, through October 31. The program is seeking donations of cash and $5.00 grocery store gift cards (submitted to The Foundation Office in building 1000). Canned food items will also be collected (drop off containers will be located in the library, bookstore, wellness center, cafeteria, and service learning office). Students will sell tickets for an opportunity drawing and Halloween goodie bags during this time. All proceeds will benefit the MiraCosta Emergency Food Pantry for students. Study Abroad in Florence, Italy Spend most of your spring semester studying in Florence, Italy with other MCC students. The program costs $4895 and covers the cost of air fare, transportation, accommodations, cultural activities, and medical/ travel insurance. Eligibility requirements are: completion of 12, GPA of 2.0 or higher by the end of Fall 2007, and at least 18 years old at time of departure. Contact the Institute for International Perspectives in Room 3443 or at 760.795.6897 for registration materials. 2007-08 Community College Real Estate Education Endowment Fund A scholarshipis available for students majoring in Real Estate. Download the application at www.cccco.edu/ divisions/ss/financial_assist/real_ estate.htm Application filing period: September 6, 2007 – March 14, 2008 The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities This organization is offering a scholarship for students planning a career or working in the field of child development, developmental disabilities or a related field. A maximum of $3,000 per applicant may be awarded. Application: www. sdrc.org\sdicdsf and tab on “Peterson Scholarship.” The application deadline is November 16. For more information, visit the Scholarship office in building 3000 on the Oceanside campus. CSU Application Workshops for Fall 2008 Transfers Oceanside Campus October 16, 10-11:30 a.m., Room 1201 October 24, Noon-1:30 p.m., Room 1201 October 29, 4-5:30 p.m., Room 1201 November 21, 4:30-6 p.m., Room 1201 San Elijo Campus October 15, 1:30-3 p.m., Room 112 October 23, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m., Room 108 November 5, Noon- 1:30 p.m., Room 107 UC Application Workshops for Fall 2008 transfers Oceanside campus November 1, 4-5:30 p.m., Room 1201 November 9, 12:30-2 p.m., Room 1201 November 21, 4:30-6 p.m., Room 1201 San Elijo campus November 19, 1:30-3 p.m., Room 112 November 27, Noon-1:30 p.m., Room 107 MCC Chariot October 15th edition October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College the FUZZ MCC Officer Rebecca Arnold answers your questions Dear Fuzz, I was wondering if you could tell me what happens if I get a ticket on campus. Is it a “real” ticket or just a warning that stays within your department? Tickets on campus are “real” tickets. Tickets issued by police officers from Mira Costa College Campus Police are no different than if you receive a ticket from an offi cer of any other department, such as Oceanside Police Department, Carlsbad Police Department or California Highway Patrol. If you are stopped by a police offi cer on campus, you are to do the same thing you would when getting pulled over by any offi cer. Pull over to a safe spot on the right side of the roadway and be prepared to show the offi cer your driver’s license, insurance and registration. If you receive a ticket, the offi cer will ask you to sign it. This is not an admission of guilt, but a promise to appear in court. The ticket will have your information, the violation of the vehicle code and the date and location of the court where you are to appear. Some of the violations you may get pulled over for on campus are: crossing a double yellow line (yes, this means if you chose to crossover the line to go around a speed bump, you can get pulled over and cited), not wearing your seatbelt, speeding (the speed limit is 25 miles an hour on campus and 10 miles an hour in the parking lot), expired registration (yes, even if you need to get to class and have no other transportation), and failing to come to a complete stop at stop signs (this means a full stop, not just a tap on the brakes or what some call “California” stops or “1-2-3-4 go!” stops). Be very alert while driving on campus as staff and students walk about campus getting back and forth from classes and to parking lots. Pedestrian traffi c can be very dangerous. It is best if you prepare ahead of time for your day’s journey, so you can obey the traffi c laws that will save you and someone’s life, time, and money. Lives and tickets are costly! If you have any questions for “The Fuzz” contact Offi cer Rebecca Arnold (760757-2121 x6519 or rarnold@miracosta.edu NOW HIRING!!! Permanent Part-Time Package Handler Must be 17 1/2 years old, lift up to 70lbs, Be available to work Monday-Friday Shifts: 3 a.m.- 9 a.m. 5 p.m.- 10 p.m. Pay Rate: $8.50/hr-$9.50/hr Seasonal Driver Helper Must meet UPS Driver Appearance Standards Able to meet driver in delivery area Available to work during the day, Mon-Fri (on call basis) Hours will vary with delivery area Must be at least 18 years old Must be available to help October 1st-December 31st 2007 Pay Rate: $8.50/hr Apply Online at www.upsjobs.com |7 COMMUNITY University Transfer Center Did you know??? • The top three transfer major to UCSD fall 2007 were: - Biology - Political Science - Visual Arts • UCSD has new Transfer Fridays… These special events are designed to introduce transfer students to UCSD. To reserve your space go to: Question: Does it really matter what 4-year university I transfer to if I hope to be competitive in the job market? Answer: According to Wall Street Journal article titled “Any College Will Do” the nation’s top CEOs say that succeeding as an executive “has more to do with leadership talent and a drive for success than it does with having an undergraduate degree from a prestigious university.” They go on to mention that it is “a person’s capacity to seize opportunities, immersing themselves in their interests, becoming campus leaders and forging strong relationships with teachers.” Question: How much will it cost to transfer to a CSU or UC campus? Answer: The costs vary depending on which campus and the type of services you will need. The current cost for tuition only at CSU campuses is approximately $3,144 per year. The total estimated cost for CSU campuses which includes housing, books, and other fees is about $17,318 per year (living off campus). For UC campuses, tuition is about $7,521 per academic year and the total estimated cost is about $22,090 per academic year (living off campus). Please visit the Mira Costa Financial Aid offi ce for further assistance. Question: I’ve heard fellow students mention using ASSIST? What is it? Answer: ASSIST is an online studenttransfer information system that shows how course credits earned at one public California college or university can be applied when transferred to another. ASSIST is the offi cial repository of articulation for California’s public colleges and universities and provides the most accurate and up-to-date information about student transfer in California. Go to www.assist.org to check it out! Scholarships Need money to attend school? Apply for a spring 2008 MiraCosta College scholarship, available to continuing full-time students and parttime students, transfer students, and high school students enrolling for the spring 2008 semester. Applications are available in the Scholarship, DSPS, EOPS, and Financial Aid offi ces located in building 3000 on the Oceanside campus and in the administration building on the San Elijo campus. The application deadline is Tuesday, October 23. For more information, call (760)795-6751, www.miracosta.edu/StudentService/ ScholarshipProgram. Tidbits Students need to help canvas and distribute local paper. Appointment setters needed. Hourly plus commision. Call for recorded information 1-800-651-4707 ext. 1505 stay HEALTHY Need Help Staying Healthy? Take advantage of MCC’s Student Health Services (760)795-6675 Walk-ins welcomed Flu Shots! San Elijo- 9:30-1:30 Oceanside- 8:30-3:30 $15.00 /No appt. needed Give the Gift of Life Blood Drive Oceanside Oct 18—10 am to 3 pm Parking Lot 1B Health Services Hours: Oceanside Campus Bldg 3300 M/T/W/F 8 am -4 pm Th. 8 am- 7 pm 760-795-6675 San Elijo Campus Adm Bldg. M, W, Th. 9 am - 2 pm. 760-944-9444 x7747 Free Confidential Personal Counseling is available at Oceanside & San Elijo For information or to set up an appointment Call Health Services (760)7956675 STUDENT Clubs Monday InterVarsity Christian Fellowship 8:30 a.m., on the East Patio, Anime Club, 4 p.m., Club Room Tuesday InterVarsity Christian Fellowship 8:30 a.m., on the East Patio Wednesday InterVarsity Christian Fellowship 8:30 a.m., on the East Patio, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship 12:00 p.m., Room 3601 Thursday InterVarsity Christian Fellowship 8:30 a.m., on the East Patio Kung Fu Movie Night, 7:30 p.m., Club Room, Friday InterVarsity Christian Fellowship 8:30 a.m., on the East Patio, Student Ambassadors, 12:00 p.m., Temescal Fencing Club practice, 1 p.m., Gymnasium BACK PAGE |8 Don't let Tyler and Byron have all the fun. Join the Chariot staff Toe jam The Tyler and Byron Show This week: the new season of "South Park" Tourette’s Syndrome may not be a laughing matter for those who suffer from it, but for Eric Cartman, it is just another day in South Park, Colorado. Of course anything from Cartman is going to be tasteless, that’s the point of his character. The second episode of the season killed me with a giant turd shown on an ultra sound machine like a baby. However, some key characters missed the fi rst two episodes, such as Kenny, Kyle and my personal favorites Timmy and Jimmy. I give “South Park” one toe up. Making fun of Tourette’s syndrome and Bono is no way to enter a new season for "South Park." "South Park" obviously peaked a few years back and is avalanching back towards mediocrity. Last episode saw no Kenny, Kyle, Cartman or Mrs. Garrison. That’s pitiful. When was the last time "The Simpsons" left Homer out of an episode, or "Family Guy" ignored Peter and Stewie? I give this part of the season two-big toes down. Like to write? Think taking photos is fun? Are you artistic? Want to make new friends and learn about your college? Come to Room 3441 on the Oceanside campus or email mccchariot @yahoo.com October 15, 2007 MiraCosta College Upcoming October events Institute for International Perspectives Mid-term Ice Cream Party, Wednesday, October 17, noon to 2:00 p.m., IIP offi ce Language Conversation Cafe, Wednesday, October 31, noon to 1:00 p.m., Aztlan A International fi lm series October 26 “Mostly Martha” (Germany, 2002) Friday 1 p.m., San Elijo Campus, Room 204 Friday 7 p.m., Oceanside Campus, Room 3601 (Little Theatre) Service Learning Events Wednesday, October 17, TERI Inc. is looking for crafty volunteers to help decorate holiday wreaths for the re-grand opening of their Oceanside thrift store on Coast Highway. Contact Lori Piccirillo at (760) 721-1706 Ext.122 or send email to lorip@ teriinc.org. Saturday, October 20: Girls Incorporated is having a symposium focusing on Hispanic Awareness. Three to four volunteers are needed to assist in various ways. Volunteers must be available from approximately 9 a.m.-1 p.m.. For more information contact Connie Pongyoo at (760)643-4067 ext. 2566 or email to conniepongyoo@msn.com Saturday, October 20, the City of Oceanside Parks and Recreation and Oceanside Police Department needs you! They are looking for volunteers to participate in a Community Painting Day. Volunteers will help paint a mural behind John Landes Recreation Center located at 2855 Cedar Road in Oceanside. Genentech is sponsoring the painting party. Painters should participate from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free lunch will be provided to all that attend. Please wear old clothes. All supplies will be provided. HELP BEAUTIFY YOUR COMMUNITY!! Meet by the baseball fi elds. For more info call Eileen Turk (760) 4355529. Bookstore Hours Enjoy a FREE soda or coffee on us! Take this coupon to the cafeteria and receive a small soda or coffee courtesy of The Chariot Newspaper. Offer valid 10-15-07 through 10-19-07 Oceanside Campus Bldg. 3400 (760) 795-6630 October 1-Nov 30 Mon-Thurs 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays closed San Elijo Campus Bldg. 300. (760) 634-7830 October 1-Nov 30 Mon-Thurs 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays Closed Introductory Meditation Workshops Meditation & Mindfulness Saturday, October 27 10:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. THE PERFECT“MEET “MEET YOU THERE PLACE”! THE PERFECT YOU THERE PLACE”! Come celebrate your “Inner Admission: $5 Bean” at the 2Spoons Coffee (Students with valid student ID: Free) House! MiraCosta College, San Elijo Campus, 3829 Plaza Dr Room 407 Oceanside CA 92056 Please e-mail meditationforjoy@yahoo. 760-724-1220 com to sign up. FREE WIFI INTERNET Come celebrate your “Inner Bean” at the 2Spoons Coffee House! 3829 Plaza Dr Oceanside Ca 92056, 760-724-1220 Located adjacent to TJ Max and Performance Bicycle less than 1 mile from the College