UCF ‘Colors of baseball Greatness’ heats up, showcased,

Page 19 Volume 15, Issue 7 www.ValenciaVoice.com Feb. 29, 2012 Page 4 Counseling Latinos a dial away By Joy Inzitari celebrate [email protected] By Michelle Saddic [email protected] Do you feel pressured as if walls are closing in on you? Are you experiencing The anniversary of the Dominican Re- worry or stress over your classes, personal public’s Independence from Haitian rule issues, or both? If your answer is yes, then was celebrated this past Monday, Feb. 27. you should be aware that each semester The Valencia Latin American Student Or- Valencia College students are eligible to ganization, or LASO, at the Osceola Cam- get free help through three counseling ses- pus served food and drinks to students sions through BayCare Behavioral Service. going to class between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. By calling BayCare at 1-800-878-5470 stu- They also played music at the front of dents may meet free of charge with a profes- Osceola Campus and displayed posters sional psychologist or mental health coun- with quick facts for students to learn a bit selor. Students may also come to Valencia of history about the Dominican Republic Student Services office and request free ses- and to have fun. sions with campus professional counselors. Walking towards Osceola Campus on Valencia College Counselor, Jocelyn Monday, the first thing one would notice is Morales, presented a workshop last Tues- the moving sound of Bachata and Merengue day entitled “Learning To Maintain Person- music playing in the background as students al Balance In Today’s Economy.” She is one from LASO dance, and the air was filled with of the four counselors in Building 5-210 at the smell of the Dominican food being served. the east campus who see students for advis- “It’s nice that they’re celebrating Do- ing and career counseling, but they also as- minican Republic’s Independence,” said sist students who are distressed, depressed, / MCTTimes Angeles Schaben, Los J. Allen Apolinar Ramirez, a Dominican student troubled, confused or have anxiety. at Valencia, “I need more Dominicans in “In the past few years there has been a my life, that way I could celebrate today link to the troubles in the economy to the more officially.” higher incidence of students having prob- In the Osceola and Kissimmee area, lems with college. More students have Hispanics and Latinos make up a large been having issues of not passing classes. ‘The Artist’ speaks loud percentage of the population, according to Their issues have been due to not having the most recent survey of the U.S. Census — Continued on page 2 Jean Dujardin beats George Clooney and Brad Pitt for best actor at 84th annual Academy Awards. — Continued on pages 9, 11, 14 — Continued on page 2 L-R: Bryan Levine / Valencia Voice; Christopher Correa / Valencia Voice www.ValenciaVoice.com NEWS Feb. 29, 2012 2 Counseling at students disposal — Continued from page 1 personal balance,” said Morales. of your surroundings, so when there is a bump Since 2006 Morales has been seeing more students coming toward you can be better prepared. affected by the economy. Parents are losing jobs, homes 7. Reduce your time with negative people and and cars. Many people are distressed and suicide rates be a part of some type of positive support group. Nurses provide comfort and have increased. She emphasized that through all the 8. Look for solutions in spite of everything go- distressing circumstances it is vital to have “balance” in ing bad around you. care with compassion and grace. life. “Mental and emotional steadiness equal balance,” 9. Understand personal challenges by being said Morales. An effort to smile and feel happiness is honest with yourself; avoid denial of facts. Herzing University – Orlando offers a 3-year important in times of pressure. Morales also talked 10. Listen to meditation music. Bachelor of Science in nursing degree that can about how physical exercise is also important. 11. Seek appropriate resources. help you reach even higher! How about: The following are the tips she offered to help Other Resources & Services Offered: students gain better balance in their lives: 1. Essential Life Skills website: essentiallifeskills.net Personalized attention 1. Take care of and nurture yourself. 2. Striking a Balance website www.apa.org a 2. Know what your priorities are. 3. Bay Care, Behavioral Service -800-878-5470 a Hands-on learning 3. Re-evaluate yourself emotionally, mentally 4. Life Skills Class – SLS 1122 Student Success a Instruction from seasoned and physically at least every six months. Start from 5. Florida 2-1-1 Network- 3-digit telephone num- professionals who know your name the inside out. ber 2-1-1 for easy access to community human ser- 4. Find what kinds of things you can to make vice information. This is a United Way service; they yourself feel better. Can walking or writing relieve will give you information on events and resources. stress or set you on a more positive outlook? People in need may be eligible for funding for heat 5. Create an efficient mindset. Be positive. Posi- and other household necessities. The money comes At most schools you dont get the tive self-talk is very helpful. from donations and government funding. More in- “ ’ 6. Expect the unexpected. You need to be aware formation can be found at their website. one-on-one attention that you get at Herzing. It helps you get more clinical experience with patients.” Dominican independence celebrated Larry Whetsell, nursing graduate — Continued from page 1 Bureau. Not many people around the area have cel- music and teaching others how to dance as well. ebrated or even know about Dominican Republic’s Other random facts are that the average Do- You’ve almost earned Independence Day, so LASO came together to cel- minican meal includes stewed meat with plantains, your first diploma. Keep ebrate, and spread some history about a day that white rice and red beans. a good thing going! many may not have known about. The Dominican Republic has also been a huge A group of Dominican rebels finally seized the Oza- help in the relief of Haiti after they went through the Realize your career goals ma fortress in Santo Domingo on Feb. 27, 1844, and as massive earthquake in 2010, which also managed to with HeRzing UniveRsity the Haitians fled, the Dominican Republican was able relieve a lot of tension between the countries. to declare their independence from Haitian rule. It was Osceola Campus is not the only campus that a movement that brought an end to 22 years of Haitian LASO participates in, but every campus has their dominance and the beginning of a new country. own organization with different events to look 888-NEW CAREER Some facts that LASO talked about were about out for as well. Next time the Latin American (888-639-2273) how Bachata and Merengue are music and dances Student Organization puts on another event, one that are unique to the Dominican Republic. Many can be sure to have a good time and learn a bit of Herzing.edu/valencia members of LASO were dancing to this Dominican history as well. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at info.herzing.edu. HU_00222D_0112 www.ValenciaVoice.com NEWS Feb. 29, 2012 3 GOP candidates trade blows Romney, Santorum care for poor but would cut safety net

By Alana Semuels government assistance, Michigan is dramatically Los Angeles Times cutting back state-funded benefits as it tries to work its way back to financial health. LOS ANGELES — Republican presidential can- Recently, the state has cut the number of weeks didates recently have found themselves battling of unemployment benefits to 20 from 26, dramati- over who cares most for the poor. cally limited its state-run earned income tax credit, But their demonstrations of empathy some- put a 48-month lifetime limit on cash assistance times collide with their plans to cut back the pro- programs and implemented an asset test that peo- grams on which many of the poor depend. ple must pass before receiving food stamps. It ap- After he appeared to dismiss the very poor, Mitt plied a means test for food stamps even as 38 other Romney was forced to backpedal from his politically states had removed theirs. perilous remarks. “There’s a lot of states that have made significant But he and other candidates stand by bedrock con- cuts to their basic safety net programs, but Michi- servative principles of cutting entitlement programs gan does stand out,” said Michael Leachman, direc- and government spending. tor of state fiscal research at the Center for Budget “We have to be concerned about those who are and Policy Priorities. at the very margins of society,” Rick Santorum told The nonprofit Michigan League for Human Ser- the Detroit Economic Club. “There’s another can- vices estimates that the cuts in the earned income tax didate in this race who suggested he didn’t care credit would reduce the amount families get from the about the very poor, who just cares about the 95 state to $140 from $430. percent. How about a candidate that cares about It says that 15,000 families, including 30,000 chil- / MCT Press Free Detroit H. Boone, Regina Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum speaks to members of the Livonia Chamber of Commerce in Michigan. 100 percent?” dren, lost their cash assistance between September Yet just minutes earlier, Santorum had pledged to and January. cut entitlement programs, which he said would “com- These cuts echo plans proposed by many of the unsustainable federal spending, such as subsidies for by people who base these decisions on an ideology pletely consume all revenues” if unchecked. GOP candidates. Romney would allow the expan- Amtrak and the National Endowment for the Arts, he that don’t necessarily mesh with some of the needs The safety net for the poor has expanded in recent sion of the earned income tax credit to expire, es- would examine the remaining federal programs. that we may have in the state,” she said. years, by some measures. sentially reducing the amount available to families, “I’m going to say, ‘Is this program better han- When federal welfare reform was passed, it Since traditional welfare was phased out in the something Michigan just did. dled at the state or local level than the federal lev- moved money in block grants to the states. mid-1990s, programs such as the earned income tax Santorum wants to put time and work limits el?’ “ he said, adding that Medicaid, food stamps That model alone might make politicians hesitate credit, cash assistance and food stamps have replaced on people receiving government benefits, which and housing vouchers are among the programs he about using block grant programs to help the very it as resources for families down on their luck. Michigan just did. would consider sending to the states. poor, said Leachman, of the Center for Budget and The government spent $7,374 per person on ben- Gingrich proposes a flat tax rate for corpora- Federal funding would be handed out as block Policy Priorities. efits in 2010, up 53 percent from 2000 when adjusted tions; Michigan eliminated the state’s major busi- grants and state leaders would decide how it would Though caseloads rose during the recession, the for inflation, according to data from the federal Bu- ness tax and replaced it with a 6 percent corporate best be spent. amount of money available to states didn’t increase. reau of Economic Analysis. income tax, costing the state $1 billion and forcing That makes people like Gilda Z. Jacobs, presi- Several other states have recently trimmed pro- Talk about cutting the safety net is especially some of the safety net cuts, according to the Center dent of the Michigan League for Human Services, grams for the poor. fraught in states like Michigan, where the Republican for Budget and Policy Priorities. more than a little nervous. Wisconsin and New Jersey cut the percentage they primary will be held Tuesday. Gingrich, Romney and Santorum also say they The theory behind block grants is that they contribute to the earned income tax credit. Washing- It had the highest unemployment rate in the na- would change means-tested federal programs such give states flexibility in administering the funds in ton froze enrollment for a state-run health care plan. tion in 2009 and is still recovering from the recession as Medicaid into block grant programs run by the ways that best suit local conditions. South Carolina wants to impose a drug test on people that saw the state lose more than half a million jobs. states. Romney, speaking at an economic round table “My concern is that sometimes, in the political cli- receiving unemployment benefits. Though many of the state’s poor benefit from in Monroe, said once he eliminated what he considers mate in our state, political decisions are being driven — MCT Campus www.ValenciaVoice.com NEWS Feb. 29, 2012 4 Bridges first ever fashion show ‘Colors of Greatness’ displayed with music, dance, poetry

By James Tutten Never forget the “cut” [email protected] in shortcut. Because when

The inaugural “Colors of Greatness” fashion you try to abbreviate an show was a cultural showcase for African-Amer- education, critical chapters are ican heritage, supported by Valencia’s Bridges to Success program. By focusing on more than just skipped. Preparedness suffers. fashion, those in attendance were treated to much And ultimately, so does your more than a clothing expo.

“We wanted to put on an event that was inspiring Christopher Voice Correa / Valencia pride. At Columbia College, as well as entertaining,” said event coordinator Andrey Fashion model showing off design from ‘Chunky Fine’. Alexander. The timing of the show honors the cultural we don’t cut corners, and additions of African-Americans and important figures use the mic, I’m just gonna sing” said Graydon. She neither do our students. of Black History Month such as Nelson Mandela. has performed live music at several venues over “Colors of Greatness” was attended in high the past two years, including Club 57 West. We simply open our doors numbers and had several models displaying ev- The fashion show then went underway with a erything from club attire to formal business-wear. wide array of brightly colored and practically de- every single day and help you The organizers also had different forms of artistic signed styles from local vendors like “Created 4 Go For Greater. expression featured thought the event including Fashion” and “Chunky Fine” offering clothing de- dance groups, poetry, spoken word speeches and signed to make a woman feel beautiful, no matter an acoustical musical performance. what size they are. Many in attendance were raving “The spoken word was awesome; that’s a great about the hot colored heels and other modern de- way to get the word out and still entertain,” said signer shoes featured along with the clothing. audience member Brianna Davis. Another highlight of the fashion show was a This spoken word speech, written by Jason Alex- showcase by Men’s Wearhouse of sharp and coor- ander, was a fast paced assault on the devastating is- dinated business attire for the young college gradu- sue of AIDS and it’s effect on the family and the com- ate looking to enter the workforce. They presented munity. While going through detailed statistics on the darker and more formal styles for a sharper look disease, he would say something controversial then for a big job interview, and also a looser look, with immediately sliding into a joke to break any tension. more earth tones for casual business attire, for when “I tend to have a message in my poems, have you have secured the position in the future. an overall theme and point out specific things that “I loved the modeling, I want to be a model my- Offering Associate, I’m talking about.” Alexander is a graduate from self so I was watching everybody,” said physical Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees. FAMU, and wants to be a motivational speaker therapy student Mideline Daceus. Online. On campus. Or both. helping young students make better choices in life. After the models did their final walk and the (877) 999-9876 • GoForGreater.org Despite a critical failure in her microphone, psy- show was over, Bridges founder and manager John chology student Khandy Graydon touchingly per- Stover presented event organizer Andrey Alexan- formed “Killing Me Softly” on her acoustic guitar. der with an award from the African-American cul- 2600 Technology Dr. • Orlando, FL Undaunted and unplugged, she didn’t skip a beat, tural society for her actions, and tying this event and the audience sang along softly in return with into cultural awareness with Black History Month. the catchy melody. Bridges to Success supports any student looking “I just thought to myself, I’m not even going to for help with their education, no matter the ethnicity.

56396 • Columbia College - Ad 1Tyka • 8.5” x 11” • 4C • lb • V1-1/16/12 www.ValenciaVoice.com NEWS Feb. 29, 2012 5 Violence Death toll rises to 3 Gunman under arrest, questions unanswered continues By Thomas J. Sheeran students at the nearby Auburn Career The Evening Sun, Hanover, Pa. Center, a vocational school, and were Syrian forces retake waiting for a bus for their daily 15-min- Feb. 28--The death toll rose to three ute ride when they were shot. rebel town of Zabadani Tuesday in the shooting rampage in an The police chief would shed no Ohio high school cafeteria as school- light on a motive. By David Enders mates and townspeople grappled with "I feel sorry not only for that fam- McClatchy Newspapers the tragedy and wondered what could ily but all the families that are affected have set the teenage gunman off. by this," McKenna said. Characterizing BAALBEK, Lebanon — Syrian forces The teenager under arrest in Mon- himself as a "hometown boy," he added: loyal to President Bashar Assad have driv- day's attack, T.J. Lane, faced an after- "Chardon will take care of Chardon." en most rebel fighters from the town of noon hearing in juvenile court. A student who saw the attack up Zabadani, northwest of Damascus, in a vi- Shaken residents offered con- close said it appeared that the gunman cious assault that refugees reaching Leba- dolences and prayers to the fami- targeted a group of students sitting non’s Bekaa Valley say is similar to the one lies of those killed and wounded at together and that the one who was that’s now taking place in Homs, Syria’s 1,100-student Chardon High School killed was gunned down while trying third largest city. in suburban Cleveland. All three of to duck under the cafeteria table. “There is no water, no electricity, no gas, the dead were students. Lane's family is mourning "this ter- no bread,” said Ali, who crossed into Leba- "This gets more tragic, the whole rible loss for their community," attor- David Enders / MCTDavid non illegally three days ago on foot with his area is suffering, our prayers go up to ney Robert Farnacci said in a statement. wife and five children. “People are trapped Sunni Muslim fighters who have a long-standing animosity toward the Syrian government and Assad. God to give all strength, healing and Lane did not go to Chardon High, in their houses by snipers. Some are buried closure," said one of hundreds of Face- instead attending nearby Lake Acad- under their own houses. There are bodies in The offensive in Homs, which has been city of Grozny more than a decade ago. book postings on a memorial page. emy, which is for students with aca- the streets, and they don’t allow people to under constant bombardment for the past The intensification of the Syrian offen- "We're not just any old place, Char- demic or behavioral problems. reach them.” 20 days, claimed the lives of two journalists sive in Homs and elsewhere comes ahead don," Chardon School Superintendent Fifteen-year-old Danny Komertz, Ali, who asked that he not be identified Wednesday, including an American who of two key events: a referendum on a new Joseph Bergant II said. "This is every who witnessed the shooting, said further out of concern for his safety, de- was on assignment for Britain’s Sunday constitution that Assad has called for Sun- place. As you've seen in the past, this Lane was known as an outcast who scribed families burying their dead under Times. Another 60 people also were killed day and a conference Friday in Tunisia at can happen anywhere, proof of what had apparently been bullied. But oth- cover of night in their own yards, another in the city’s Baba Amr neighborhood, ac- which representatives of 70 countries are we had yesterday." ers disputed that. echo of the fighting in Homs. He also de- cording to Syrian activists. expected to discuss whether to provide A Cleveland hospital said Deme- Farinacci, representing Lane and scribed arrests and beatings by the military Marie Colvin was killed when artillery arms to the rebels. trius Hewlin, who had been in critical his family, told WKYC-TV that Lane to intimidate residents, and a 3 p.m. curfew and rocket fire struck the house where she The Homs offensive and the events in condition, died Tuesday morning. That "pretty much sticks to himself but enforced by sniper fire. was staying in Baba Amr. Zabadani show how crucial a decision to news came shortly after Police Chief does have some friends and has never A resort town with a population of A French photographer, Remi Ochlik, supply weapons and ammunition could be Tim McKenna said 17-year-old Russell been in trouble over anything that we about 20,000, Zabadani was billed in Janu- was killed along with her. Three journalists to the rebel forces. King Jr. had died. know about." ary as the first city to have fallen complete- also were wounded in the bombardment, Refugees say the rebels have largely Another student, Daniel Parmertor, Long before official word came ly under the control of the anti-Assad Free which Syrian activists in the city said had withdrawn from Zabadani, and one Leba- died hours after the shooting, which of the attack, parents learned of the Syrian Army. intensified in the last 24 hours. nese man who’s involved in smuggling sent students screaming through the bloodshed from students via text mes- But that status lasted less than a month, Human Rights Watch has reported medical supplies into the town said the Free halls and led teachers to lock down sage and cellphone and thronged the as pro-Assad forces undertook an offensive that the military is using 240 mm artillery Syrian Army’s supply lines had been cut. their classrooms as they had practiced streets around the school, anxiously that intensified three weeks ago, just as the rounds, the same as the Russian military “They ran out of ammo,” he said. doing so many times during drills. awaiting word on their children. offensive against Homs also was launched. used in its intense shelling of the Chechen — MCT Campus Both King and Parmertor were — MCT Campus www.ValenciaVoice.com OPINION Feb. 29, 2012 6 Hollywood accused too often Blame needs to be placed elsewhere By Jeremy S. Williams several awards that night and even won aired the award show, for supposedly glo- by shedding light on them. Movies like is the very reason why individual responsi- [email protected] for best R&B album, has not attended the rifying domestic violence. “Rebel Without a Cause” and “Boyz n the bility has been cast aside to make room for award telecast since the now infamous Society has always wanted someone else Hood” opened the door for society to see the “blame Hollywood” mentality. Hollywood is accused of a lot when night three years ago when he attacked to blame other then themselves. In 1999, two what was really happening to the youth. If you want to be outraged about what society goes astray -- sex, drugs, violence and beat then girlfriend Rihanna, putting students marched into Columbine High Television shows like “My So-Called Life” happened at the Grammys then do so, -- anything and everything that spurs out- the Grammy Award winning performer in School and opened fire on students and and “Freaks and Geeks” opened parents’ but place the blame where it is deserved. rage will unavoidably be linked back to the hospital. faculty, causing the deadliest high school eyes to see what their kids were really The music industry and Hollywood as something seen in a movie or on TV, or During the telecast Brown’s fans and massacre in our nation’s history. But when dealing with in school. a whole cannot govern the youth of to- something heard in a song, but it seems like supporters took to Twitter, tweeting their the smoke cleared we did not question the Whether through drama or comedy, sat- day simply because the parents won’t. If the finger is never pointed at the real cul- desire to be beaten by the performer and morals or upbringing of the perpetrators. In- ire or song, Hollywood is the window that an individual posts or tweets something prit when a situation happens: The parents. expressing how much they adored him. stead we blamed the music they listened to has allowed society to look back in on itself that is in poor taste then that person is to A slew of controversy has surrounded After this many stood up in protest, but and the video games they played. and question whether the morals and values blame for the comment. People must stop the recent Grammy Awards which aired not condemning the performer or his Columbine was a tragedy, but it was we are living by are the best interpretation using Hollywood as a crutch and start Feb. 12 about the center stage support bounty of fans who seem to want him not something that should have enraged of ourselves. For us to then turn around and parenting their children from the begin- thrown behind musical performer Chris to attack them, but rather to protest the people to take up arms against Holly- blame the very institution that only mimics ning. Now that would be a novel idea for Brown. Brown, whom was nominated for Grammy telecast and CBS, the station that wood. When did we stop expecting par- our own style is no more than shameless; it a Hollywood screenplay. ents to raise their children and start re- quiring television to be the morality altar that we should worship at? The tweets glorifying domestic violence were not the fault of CBS, nor the fault of the Grammy Academy. They weren’t even the fault of Chris Brown. They were the fault of the women posting the tweets. Social media has allowed everyone with a smartphone or a laptop to express their opinion and put a spin or comment on every social event that takes place, but we don’t need to blame the event plan- ner when a party crasher shows up and says or does something completely idiotic. These tweeters did not express their stu- pidity because Hollywood hasn’t provid- ed them with a proper role model. They did so because their parents were not be the role models they should have been. Even before movies and TV the world had its problems with younger genera- tions abusing alcohol and drugs, having premarital sex and becoming extremely violent with each another. These “trouble topics” are not the fault Red Huber, Orlando Sentinel / MCT Red Huber, of Hollywood. On the contrary, Hollywood / MCT Dallas Morning News Michael Mulvey, Chris Brown performs before the NBA All-Star Game at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. has helped society with these problems In 1999, 14 students and one teacher were killed at the school when two teenage gunmen opened fire. www.ValenciaVoice.com OPINION Feb. 29, 2012 7 Hollywood not accused enough Celebrities send wrong message to youth By Brittany Rose that you wouldn’t be ready to high five throats during their award show this road and gloss it over as if nothing ever cently made it seem completely fine for a [email protected] your friend with the sentiment of “eh, year, but Rihanna is now flaunting the happened? She made herself a role model man to dictate who the female could have two years is long enough.” two singles she recently recorded with by becoming some kind of spokesperson in her life and why. This was glossed over Picture it: your friend comes to you Chris Brown beat Rihanna to a pulp Brown on the Internet. against abuse, only to go back to publicly with an explanation of “he’s a prince” with a bruised face and tells you that her on the eve before The Grammys two It would be “their business” and a hanging out with her attacker. It makes and “he loves me.” boyfriend beat her up. Said boyfriend years ago, and the whole world was up non-issue if young girls weren’t stepping her look weak, and it makes it look like How is this acceptable in this day and is then arrested, sentenced to probation in arms about it. Brown was not only out because of this with Twitter posts she thinks it’s okay. age at all? An act of abuse should never and literally banned by the court system banned from the award show for the about how much they wish that Chris There are also television shows, such be excused, let alone in the eye of the pub- from seeing your friend for a set amount next two years, but also had to suffer the Brown would “beat” them, and Holly- as the CW hit “Gossip Girl,” that make lic or on a television show that is widely of time. many understandable legal consequences wood wasn’t advertising this situation as it seem glamorous or perfectly normal known for having a large teenage audi- Flash forward to two years down the for his actions. Rihanna did several inter- a “comeback” just for a the sole purpose to want to be in an abusive relation- ence. You don’t speak out against abuse road when the ban has been lifted and views speaking out against abuse, telling of selling some singles. ship. One of the fan favorite couples re- and then fan a later relationship with your friend comes to you with a smile her fans to stay out of relationships like Rihanna may not have any control cently had a moment in which the male your abuser for the world to see, and you on her face and story about how much the one she’d been a part of with Brown. over the fact that she is viewed as a role punched a window subsequently cutting certainly don’t gloss it over with “let it her ex-boyfriend has changed. Would Two years has apparently become model at this point in her life, but why the female characters face, and the mo- go! It’s been two years.” You don’t excuse two years be enough for you? Would an eternity in Hollywood, because not speak out against abuse and the person ment was brushed aside and excused as abuse on a television show just because you think that your friend was out of her only did The Grammys try to shove a who committed it to various news outlets a moment of passion. Another couple on the couple in question is a “fan favorite” mind? It’s likely a safe assumption to say Chris Brown “comeback” down our only to turn around two years down the the show (involving the same female) re- or because the abuser is a “prince.” Robert Gauthier, Los Angeles Times / MCTTimes Angeles Los Robert Gauthier, Red Huber, Orlando Sentinel / MCT Red Huber, Chris Brown wins best R&B album and performs at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards at the Staples Center in L.A., California. Chris Brown is facing a lot of criticism because is trying to make a comeback after he beat then girlfriend Rihanna in 2009. www.ValenciaVoice.com OPINION Feb. 29, 2012 8 Does Hollywood glamorize domestic violence? Photos by Christopher Correa / Interviews by Felicia Roopchand

“I think it’s [Rihanna’s] personal- “Professionally collaborating “It makes it looks like it’s okay to “It’s only news because they’re “I think they step outside the ity. I don’t think they should sing is okay, but not if they get back go back [to an abusive relation- famous.” lines to get more attention... it’s songs together.” together.” ship], when it’s not.” all for publicity.” ­— Joy Weaver — Nicole Neilson — Delia Figura — Sarah Elsherbeny — Krystal Stutz

“I was in a domestic relationship “Controversy sells, especially in “We put them so high on a totem “I don’t think he did it on pur- “I think celebrities like Chris for 3 years, it’s not easy. They make the Hollywood lifestyle.” pole, they don’t want us to know pose. Either way, he shouldn’t Brown are people too, and are it seem easy.” that they have a weak side.” have hit her like that.” able to learn from their mistakes.” — Vanessa Galett — Martin Lalanne — Marquise Humphrey — Hafsa Abrabar — Nora Davis www.ValenciaVoice.com OPINION Feb. 29, 2012 9 Robert Gauthier, Los Angeles Times / MCTTimes Angeles Los Robert Gauthier, ABC / MCT / MCTTimes Angeles Los Robert Gauthier, Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy watch as ‘The Muppets Movie’ wins Best Song. Billy Crystal dusted off the old tuxedo for his ninth time as the Oscar host. Elizabeth Taylor concluded the memoriam reel of Hollywood’s 2011 passings.

48th annual Academy Awards wrap-up ‘The Artist’, ‘Hugo’ Oscar nights big winners

By Jeremy Williams nomic problems like watching millionaires feeling I could hear half of America going, “You’re only two years older than me the network that airs the Oscars, because [email protected] present each other with golden statues.” ‘Oh no. Come on... Her, again?’ You know. darling, where have you been all my life?” of their status as the second most watched ‘The Artist’ and ‘Hugo’ were the big- But, whatever,” Streep said as she took to said Plummer to his new golden statue. show in America each year after the Su- Hollywood had their annual love af- gest winners bringing home five statues the stage to collect her award. ‘The Help,’ the most commercially per Bowl, but with The Grammy telecast fair with themselves this past Sunday with each, with ‘Hugo’ cleaning up in the tech- Woody Allen, nominated a total of 23 successful of the nine best pictures, was bringing in record numbers a few weeks the 84th Academy Awards with host Billy nical categories and ‘The Artist’ coming times collectively for acting, directing and nominated for four awards and only ago due to the return of Adele to a live Crystal emceeing for the ninth time. out on top in most of the major categories screen writing, won Best Original Screen- brought home one. Octavia Spencer, Best stage after throat surgery and the death A throw back to the past, Hollywood including Best Picture, Best Director and play for ‘Midnight in Paris,’ only his forth Supporting Actress winner, could barely of Whitney Houston it appears that they spent the night honoring movies about Best Actor for Jean Dujardin. Oscar and his first since 1987 when he get through her acceptance speech amidst may to settle for third place. movies and awarding Hollywood’s elite “It’s funny because in 1929, it wasn’t won for writing the screenplay to ‘Hanna tears after hearing her name called. The Academy Awards came to a close who have been acknowledged with nomi- Billy Crystal but Douglas Fairbanks who and Her Sisters.’ “I’m sorry,” repeated Spencer, “I’m just over three hours, which is on the nations, yet have not been given Oscar hosted the first Oscars ceremony,” said Allen famously does not attend award freaking out, thank you world.” shorter end of the shows standard air- gold in decades (and in some cases never). Dujardin in his acceptance speech. “Tick- shows and has never gone the Oscars except The Oscar telecast had more than 39 time and contained your typical award The show opened in typical Crystal ets cost five dollars and it lasted 15 min- once in 2002. After the 9-11 terrorist attacks million viewers, up slightly from last show fare, but the best moment from the fashion with a movie montage injecting utes. Times have changed.” he made an appearance to ask producers to year’s show in which ‘The King’s Speech’ Oscars came from a virtual unknown, the him into some of the best movies from The Academy did not forget to honor continue filming in New York City. won best picture and co-host’s Anne Ha- acceptance speech from Best Sound Edit- 2011, then his song and dance anthem their legends this year presenting Meryl Christopher Plummer accepted his first thaway and James Franco attempted to ing winner Philip Stockton, who won for honoring the nine films nominated for Streep with her third Oscar for her portray- Oscar at the age of 82 for playing a man gather up a younger audience but fell flat ‘Hugo,’ summed it up for all the winners. best picture. al of Margaret Thatcher in “The Iron Lady.” coming out of the closet late in life after the for most viewers. “I want to thank everybody who is Crystal moved the evening along with While Streep is the most nominated perform- death of his wife in the movie ‘Beginners.’ The uptick in viewership might be at- here tonight,” said Stockton, “and every- funny quips and light-hearted knocks at the er in Oscar history with 17 nominations, she Plummer, a Hollywood legend from tributed to the return of Oscar-favorite body who isn’t, and everybody who has Hollywood attendees. “So tonight, enjoy hasn’t won in 29 years when she took home such classic films as ‘The Sound of Music,’ host Crystal who put up sold numbers ever been born or may be born or be born yourselves,” joked Crystal, “because noth- the Best Actress statue for ‘Sophie’s Choice.’ acknowledged that he is not much young- each time he has hosted in the past. again or reborn. If I’ve forgotten anybody ing can take the sting out of the world’s eco- “When they called my name, I had this er than the Oscars themselves. Viewership was important for ABC, then you probably know who you are.” www.ValenciaVoice.com OPINION Feb. 29, 2012 10

Spring 2012 Editors Tweets of Editor-in-chief Mary Stevens News Editor James Tutten the Week Sports Editor Bryan Levine Editorial Director Jeff Shedden

Events Editor Felicia Roopchand

Copy Editor Fred Lambert

Advertisement Director Jeremy Williams

Web Editor Brittany Rose

Photo Editor Christopher Correa

Staff Mike Gramajo Lawrence Laguna

Sarah Flores Gabe Lozada

Juan Gallargo Shannon Metherell

Juan Gutierrez Edward Mueller

Neda Hamdan Jazmin Rodriguez

Shay Castle Michelle Saddic

Joy Irzitari Anisha Tandon

Member, Associated Collegiate Press

The opinions expressed are those of the Valencia Voice, its staff members and contributors, and are not necessarily those of Valencia College, its staff, faculty, or student body. www.ValenciaVoice.com FEATURES Feb. 29, 2012 11 Going home empty handed Opening March 2 ‘War Horse,’ ‘Moneyball’ among others with no Oscar ‘Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax’

By Ben Fritz Several films that were respected Los Angeles Times enough by Oscar voters to garner multiple nominations went home empty-handed. For a moment, it looked as though “Moneyball” and “War Horse,” with six “Hugo” could sweep this year’s Acad- nominations each, including best picture, emy Awards. didn’t win a single prize. Martin Scorsese’s 3-D family film “The Descendants,” which received five snapped up five trophies in technical cat- nominations and early in awards season egories, including surprise wins for cin- looked like a viable contender for Oscar’s top ematography and visual effects. honor after winning best motion picture dra-

But as the more prestigious prizes were ma at the Golden Globes, received only one Pictures Courtesy of Universal handed out later in the night, momentum trophy Sunday night, for adapted screenplay. Pictures Courtesy of Columbia Directors: Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda shifted to the expected favorite, “The Art- Another movie that once seemed to Moneyball was nominated for Best Picture, Best Actor (Brad Pitt), but didn’t take any Oscars home. Starring: Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, ist,” which won for best picture, best direc- have a shot at best picture, SAG award win- Danny DeVito, and Betty White tor and best actor among its five awards. ner for ensemble cast “The Help,” only cap- Bourne Ultimatum” won for editing. more impressed by “Hugo’s” eye-popping The only upset in the highest-profile tured one win out of four nominations, best Baxter and Wall are also the first film 3-D effects, which included a mechanical ro- Rated: PG categories came near the end of the show, supporting actress for Octavia Spencer. editors in Hollywood history to win bot and a dramatic train crash. Running Time: 94 minutes when Meryl Streep won the lead actress The film editing category has often been Academy Awards two years in a row. Traditional Oscar-ology also held that Genre: Animation, family, fantasy statue for her portrayal of former Prime a good predictor of the best picture winner, They won last year for “The Social Net- Terrence Malick’s “The Tree of Life” was Minister Margaret Thatcher in “The Iron as the two went together in seven of the work,” which, like “Dragon Tattoo,” was a favorite in the cinematography category, Lady,” beating out Viola Davis for “The prior 10 years. But “The Girl With the Drag- directed by David Fincher. given its spectacular shots of sun-drenched ‘Project X’ Help.” Many thought Davis, who had on Tattoo” editors Kirk Baxter and Angus With its win for visual effects, “Hugo’ de- nature. This year, however, it was a movie won the Screen Actors Guild over Streep Wall pulled off the rare feat of winning for a feated a film that many considered ground- that takes place largely in a Paris train sta- for her role as a maid in Mississippi in the movie that wasn’t even nominated for best breaking for its lifelike motion-captured ani- tion and was enhanced by digital 3-D ef- early 1960s, had a good chance of repeat- picture. The only other time that happened mal performance: “Rise of the Planet of the fects that took the prize. ing that victory at the Oscars. in the last decade was in 2008, when “The Apes.” But Oscar voters showed they were — MCT Campus Box Office ‘Act of Valor’ ‘Tyler Perry ‘Journey 2’ Good Deeds’ Rated: R Rated: PG-13 Rated: PG Bros. Warner Courtesy of Director: Nima Nourizadeh Starring: Thomas Mann, Oliver Coo- This Weekend: $24. 8 million This Weekend: $15.6 million This Weekend: $13.4 million per and Jonathan Daniel Brown

Total Gross: $24. 8 million Total Gross: $15.6 million Total Gross: $76.6 million Rated: R Running Time: 88 minutes Courtesy of Relativity Courtesy of Lionsgate Courtesy of Warner Bros. Genre: Comedy www.ValenciaVoice.com FEATURES Feb. 29, 2012 12 Navy SEALs grace big screen Real warriors don’t need to act when killing an enemy

boosts the known styles used to portray elite — America’s toughest razor-edge modern conflict in film. human weapons, the SEALs. Just getting Other contemporary war films have these special forces gurus in between By Fred Lambert utilized active duty military person- their actual forward deployments made [email protected] nel for the sake of realism; Paul Green- the filming portion last over two years, grass’s “Green Zone” used Matt Damon according to Waugh. “Act of Valor” is a realistic and fresh as the lead role but cast actual soldiers Much of the equipment featured in view of the war movie genre. Using real between tours to Iraq for the men in his the film is accurate and some of the battle Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, Land), spectacular team. HBO’s “Generation Kill” had Rudy scenes were shot using live ammunition cinematography, and a meticulous por- Reyes playing himself as the “fruity” to blast vehicles and dazzle the screen trayal of tactical technology, this film di- apex Recon Marine. with tracer fire. rected by Scott Waugh and Mike McCoy But “Act of Valor” has the elite of the The story is simple and complex at the same time. Two CIA agents (Nestor Serrano and Roselyn Sanchez) are com- Courtesy of Relativity Special forces operative silently emerges from water while sneaking up on a sentey in Costa Rica. promised in Costa Rica while on a mis- sion to link a gun smuggler named Christo (Alex Veadov) with a Chechen it is breathtaking to watch; the visual ele- rounds through sentry skulls, glide un- jihadi (Jason Cottle) bent on shedding ment is a work of art and is probably the derwater in scuba gear, drop from the American blood. movie’s strongest suit. sky in HALO (High Altitude Low Open- This scene is just as hard-wired as the But amid the impeccable portrayal ing) jumps or deploy model-airplane- rest of the movie, and shows how brutally of real-world missions and techniques, like UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), isolated many intelligence personnel are. some may find the lighter scenes a bit it becomes quite obvious that the men It also reveals the mythical stereotype that disconcerting because of the acting. It aren’t acting at all, but doing as they al- CIA agents are one-man armies; when must be noted that the SEALs train to ways do. Serrano’s character answers the door for a kill, not act. This being said, some of the “I can overlook it,” said audience Chinese food delivery, his head is blown dialogue scenes, like one in a California member Jeremy Hawkins about the mea- off while Sanchez is overpowered by bar between the Chief and Lieutenant ger dialogue scenes. “At times you could her abductors. Then the real-world cav- concerning family life, seem contrived tell it was scripted, but for the most part it alry rolls into action when the SEALs get and unnatural. was good.” briefed for the rescue mission. “The acting was okay, but it wasn’t “If real life is anything close to that,” A wider plot to implant suicide bomb- the best,” said Kevin Ford after watch- he said of the action, “then those guys are ers in America is discovered, and follow- ing the movie. “They were real Navy pretty serious.” on missions see the team pulling recon- SEALs, though, so I think they did a “Act of Valor” is one of the most hon- naissance duties and raids in Somalia pretty good job.” est portrayals of what some of America’s before confronting drug cartels and Fili- While these scenes are necessary elite warriors are faced with, and more pino terrorists on the US/Mexico border. in humanizing certain elements of the complexly, the secretive scenarios that Much of the cinematography is in a characters, they are so few and far be- America is threatened with regularly. The documentary style familiar to films like tween that it doesn’t detract from the mixture of real-world personnel, gorgeous

Courtesy of Relativity “Saving Private Ryan.” Other shots range film much at all. camera-work and skillful editing make U.S navy provided active duty SEALs to fill the roles of soldiers during production of ‘Act of Valor.’ from indoor helmet-cam views to grand, As soon as the professional warriors this film an instant classic among top por- sweeping, helicopter-borne angles. All of snap into their gun-sights, put sniper trayals of searing conflict. www.ValenciaVoice.com FEATURES Feb. 29, 2012 13

If spring-breakers have amusement have fun. It’s not as upscale as Miami, but parks and attractions in mind, Orlando it does offer great nightlife, with a legend- Time for a spring break is the right place. The city is well-known ary-to-Florida two-story party bar includ- for Islands of Adventure, which features ing a deck and patio called the Elbo Room. Florida has a lot to offer for vactions on a budget the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Uni- Surrounded by water and endless versal Studios Orlando, Seaworld and the beaches, Key West is also an attractive By Neda Hamdan tion is of course Panama City. Especially waterpark known as Aquatica. There are place for spring break. Once tired of spend- [email protected] with St. Andrews Park which has 1.260 an abundance of places to have fun. Those ing a day at the beach, Duval Street is the acres of beautiful beaches, wetlands, and who want to tap into their inner-child go place to let loose, and guarantees a night It’s every college students favorite natural coastal dunes. There’s also 18,000 to Disney World; it’s not too far from Co- of interesting stories to tell the next day. time of the year, spring break. It’s also one hotel rooms prepared for any college stu- coa Beach, and Church Street in down- The Florida Keys and Wekiva of Florida’s favorite times of the year, as dent that wants to visit. town Orlando is perfect to find a great Springs are enjoyable destinations that colleges students across the nation fly or With the help of MTV, Daytona has party or club. offer time to spend in the sun and enjoy drive down to have fun at one of the many grabbed attention as a spring break get- South Beach Miami has become a great night-activities. cities the peninsular has to offer. away. Not only is the coastal community a spring break destination. Not only is the Florida is a state that offers a variety Over 1.5 million students go on spring hot spot, there’s nightlife like clubs Razzles beach one of the most noticeable in Flor- of places to go and ways to have fun. break each year. With that, there are a va- and Ocean Deck, along with half-a-dozen ida, Lincoln Road is rimmed with trendy The most important thing about spring Mary / MCT Anderson Ann riety of ideal places to spend spring break concerts in mid-March which are located shops and restaurants, and has nightlife. break is to be safe. Have fun, but also “World’s Most Famous Beach” since the ‘20s, in Florida. The most well-known destina- at local bars in the area. Ft. Lauderdale offers a different way to act responsibly. Daytona Beach extends miles on Florida’s coast.

App of the Week: Where’s My Water

By Neda Hamdan Courtesy of iTunes [email protected] pipes to control where the water ends up. Your score “Angry Birds” was the most popular app last is based on the amount of time it takes to finish the year, but it might be time for it to step down from level, the amount of ducks obtained and a bonus for the thrown. “Where’s My Water?” was released by water overflow. Disney this past September and the name itself is In each level there are three ducks to pick up us- compelling enough to try the game out. ing diverted water. This can unlock bonus levels and In “Where’s My Water?” there’s an alligator rewards that are hidden in dirt and other places. Re- named Swampy, and being more like a human than wards can include a loofah or a toothbrush. There an actual alligator, he enjoys being clean and taking are also obstacles like acid that turns the water toxic See what Webster University has for u! baths. As a result, Cranky (another more terrifying (making it unusable for Swampy), mines and even alligator) and friends’ motives are to sabotage the plants that can steal the precious H20. EARN YOUR BACHELOR’S DEGREE water pipes in an attempt to stop the supply of fluid ”Where’s My Water?” gets tougher as the levels • Business Administration • Human Resources Management • Management • Psychology for Swampy’s house. increase, forcing players to calculate and measure destination: Generous Transfer of Credit Policy • Terms begin in January, March, June, August or October With 80 challenging levels spread out into four the best way to allow the water to reach Swampy’s Small Classes Meet One Evening Per Week • Convenient Free Parking different worlds, the objective is to find a way for pipes. A benefit of the app is that it is family-friendly a better u and available for any type of audience. Available for the water to reach Swampy’s pipes, which eventu- webster.edu/orlando North Orlando: Sanlando Center • 407-869-8111 ally reaches his bathtub. The player uses gravity, the iPhone and Android systems for 99 cents, this South Orlando: Westwood Corporate Center • 407-345-1139 momentum, angles and even scratching dirt off the game will not disappoint fans of puzzle challenges. 1-888-302-8111 • webster.edu/orlando

EC-2143 CC UG ad2.indd 1 1/31/12 2:19 PM www.ValenciaVoice.com FEATURES Feb. 29, 2012 14 And the Oscar goes to ... Best Picture Best Director Actor in a Leading Role Actress in a Leading Role Allen J. Schaben, Los Angeles Times / MCTTimes Angeles Schaben, Los J. Allen / MCTTimes Angeles Schaben, Los J. Allen / MCT Landov Specker, Francis / MCT Landov Specker, Francis “The Artist.” Michel Hazanavicius, “The Artist.” Jean Dujardin, “The Artist.” Meryl Streep, “The Iron Lady.” Actress in a Supporting Role Actor in a Supporting Role Best Adapted Screenplay Best Cinematography Francis Specker, Landov / MCT Landov Specker, Francis / MCTTimes Angeles Schaben, Los J. Allen / MCTTimes Angeles Schaben, Los J. Allen / MCTTimes Angeles Schaben, Los J. Allen Octavia Spencer, “The Help.” Christopher Plummer, “Beginners.” Nat Faxon, Jim Rash, Alexander Payne,“The Descendants.” Robert Richardson, “Hugo.” To view all winners click here: oscars.com www.ValenciaVoice.com FEATURES Feb. 29, 2012 15

V a March 1 March 1 March 2 March 4 March 6 March 7 March 7 l Staying Safe on How to Get Into a Meet the Deans Start Right Campus Crusade for Campus and Email Test Taking 101 e Campus Professional Medical Valencia College Convocation Christ Etiquette Winter Park Campus East Campus Related School Skillshop Winter Park Campus West Campus Osceola Campus Rm. 123 n 3-113 Osceola Campus Winter Park Campus PAC 5-253 3-230 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. c 2:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. 3-230 Rm. 107 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. i 1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. a

Community On-going Concerts

3/1 Bicycle Dreams 3/2 Garden Theatre Romeo Santos 7:00 p.m. Amway Center 8:00 p.m.

Courtesy of flstrawberryfestival.com Courtesy of amwaycenter.com 3/1-3/11 3/3 Florida Strawberry Festival NEDA Walk. Save a Life. Cranes Roost Park The Strawberry Festival Grounds 3/3 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Guns N’ Roses

Courtesy of nationaleatingdisorders.org House of Blues 3/1 - 3/11 9:00 p.m. Artists-in-Residence #144 Atlantic Center for the Arts 3/4 Courtesy of houseofblues.com Tuesdays-Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 33rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m Winter Park Country Club 2:00 p.m. 3/3 3/1 - 3/25 The Lighter Exchange Hedda Gabler 3/5 Son Of A Bad Man Mad Cow Theatre Film Night hosted by SDS The Social Thurs - Fri. 8:00 p.m. Natura Coffee & Tea 7:00 p.m. Sundays 3:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m Courtesy of thesocial.org

3/3 -3/4 3/6 The Best of Times John Leguizamo Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre 3:00 p.m. 3/5 8:00 p.m. Lotus The Beacham 3/7 7:00 p.m. UCF Baseball vs. Florida State Jay Bergman Field Courtesy of thebeacham.com Courtesy of wdpac.com 6:30 p.m. Feb. 22, 2012 www.ValenciaVoice.com SPORTS Feb. 29, 2012 16

All-Star weekend invades Orlando

Game recap, story on local fan festivities in sports section Gary W. Green, Orlando Sentinel / MCT www.ValenciaVoice.com SPORTS Feb. 29, 2012 17 Hesitation leads to East’s loss Despite allowing 80 at half, game ends on LBJ turnover

By K.C. Johnson In another show of competitiveness, and Dwight Howard shimmied and Chicago Tribune Celtics forward Paul Pierce yelled from smiled during starters’ introductions. the bench at Bryant as he attempted Rose started slowly, scoring just ORLANDO, Fla. — Often, the NBA two critical free throws with 18.1 sec- two first-half points and then getting All-Star Game is far more about style onds left, reminding all that Bryant stripped by Durant for a breakaway than substance. missed two late free throws recently dunk on the first possession of the sec- That changed Sunday night at Am- during a regular-season victory over ond half. way Center with 8 minutes, 48 seconds the Mavericks. But Rose heated up later in the third remaining in the third quarter. Bryant missed the second of two, quarter, scoring 12 points in 7:57, in- That’s when Dwyane Wade deliv- allowing Thibodeau to draw an out- cluding two 3-pointers. ered a hard foul on Kobe Bryant that of-bounds play that gave Deron Wil- “This is an honor being here,” Rose actually drew blood. liams a wide-open 3-point look that said. “Of course when you’re here, this Bryant being Bryant, he focused on he missed. game usually is for the fans. You want chasing history, surpassing Michael James, whose 36 points led the to be exciting when you’re out there. Jordan as the all-time leading scorer in East, rebounded but turned it over, al- But you also want to win.” All-Star Game history. lowing Blake Griffin to split two free While recognizing the significance Wade’s foul energized the East, throws with 1.1 seconds left. of the game for the fans and appreciat- which rode LeBron James’ comeback Wade’s 3-pointer at the buzzer ing them voting him as a starter, Rose effort before eventually succumbing drew air. consistently has talked about how un- 152-149 in a defensive performance that Before Wade’s foul on Bryant, the comfortable he feels playing in basical- had to make coach Tom Thibodeau’s only true competition centered on ly a glorified exhibition. skin crawl. whether Deng or Thibodeau provided “I’m like a loner, stay to myself, Kevin Durant captured the game’s the most shocking moment. be in my own little comfort zone,” most valuable player award for his Deng pulled a surprise during pre- Rose said. 36-point, seven-rebound performance game player introductions, eschewing Deng’s excitement all weekend has for the West. the league-mandated warmups and been palpable. Derrick Rose finished with 14 proudly displaying a T-shirt of his na- He has clearly reveled in the expe- points and three assists in 18 minutes, tive Africa. Deng’s family was exiled rience and honored his homeland as a sitting the entire second and fourth from war-torn Sudan when Deng was last-minute expression of his excitement. quarters and playing the least of the a toddler, and Deng has spoken elo- “That day, seeing my parents,” East starters. quently and emotionally of South Su- Deng said of South Sudan’s indepen- “I know with my back I didn’t dan’s newfound independence that dence in a recent interview with the Tri- want to play that much to be careful,” was achieved last year. bune, “it’s something I’ll never forget.” Rose said. “Of course I wanted to be And Thibodeau? Well, the Bulls Bryant won’t forget passing the in there at the end, but I think (coach coach sat down while coaching, until player he is always closely compared Thibodeau) was just being safe.” late in the fourth quarter. to, doing so with style on a third- In his first All-Star appearance, Luol “The game is for the fans,” quarter dunk. Deng played the final 5 minutes, 51 sec- Thibodeau said. “My job is to dole out Jordan scored 262 points in 14 All- onds of the first quarter and didn’t re- minutes and get out of the way.” Star appearances. Bryant now has 271 turn, missing two jumpers and posting For the second straight year, Rose points in 13 games. Orlando Sentinel / MCT Green, W. Gary one assist. did his stone-faced routine while James ­­— MCT Campus All Star Game MVP Kevin Durant floats the ball over East All Star defender Dwight Howard during the All-Star Game. www.ValenciaVoice.com SPORTS Feb. 29, 2012 18 Knights’ Soph. Players visit fans in Orlando excells this year NBA stars greet people during weekend’s festivities By Lawrence Laguna ing the weekend. Isaiah Sykes has MVP year [email protected] Retired hall of fame NBA player Dennis Rodman in just his 2nd season at UCF showed up to sign autographs at a store named Field The 2012 All-Star weekend made its mark at the of Dreams at the mall as well. Florida Mall, with many NBA All-Star’s making their Other celebrities also made appearances at the By Anisha Tandon way into stores, including Russell Westbrook, Jeremy mall to randomly heighten the excitement of the [email protected] Lin, Derrick Rose and Orlando’s hometown favorite, weekend and headline parties in the city. Dwight Howard. The event-filled weekend made it possible for As a sophomore Isaiah Sykes has made a name Stores like Champs, Foot Locker and Foot Action the NBA, its players, fans and Orlando businesses to for himself on the UCF men’s basketball team, espe- each featured the players throughout the weekend to benefit to a high degree. cially since he does it all. sign autographs for fans. Sykes joined the team right after graduating from “This event is good for the community. Everyone Denby High in Detroit, Michigan in 2009. has a great chance to get a autograph from one of their He made his collegiate debut on Nov.12, 2010 favorite players,” said NBA fan Erick Medina. against West Florida University. He scored nine Hundreds of fans crowed the mall, making a points in 13 minutes, as the Knights put up 115 points line to meet the superstars and buy new releases of over the Agronauts. All-Star apparel, including limited edition shoes that Sykes played in 32 out of the 33 games of the reg- customers literally rioted over. ular season, averaging four points per game during Due to the riot, Nike wouldn’t release the new his 16 minutes of play. Voice Valencia Bryan / Levine Lebron James and Kobe Bryant Nike Galaxy Air Now in his second season, Sykes has been making Isaiah Sykes drives to the net during a game against UTEP. Foamposite sneakers going for $220, which left many the best of his opporunities during this season. He’s Sykes went on to score 23 points and bring down 11 boards. shoe fanatics angry. Others thought it was the right averaging 12.9 points in league games, and ranks call to make. third in the Conference-USA in field goal percentage. making threes, he’s making me look like I’m a good “The constant fighting over a pair of shoes that Saturday night, Sykes accomplished the 6th double- coach or something,” said Jones of Sykes’ improve- release at midnight is pathetic,” said Orlando na- double of his college career. Sykes put up 23 points and ment in his 3-point shot. tive Nick Brown. “I don’t understand how someone 11 rebounds in his 32 minutes against the UTEP Miners. C-USA honored Sykes as the player of the week would riot over a pair of shoes when there are other His first career double-double was earlier this on Feb. 13 after averaging 21 points and 10 rebounds priorities more important to pay attention to.” season against Hartford with 22 points and 11 re- against Marshall and Southern Mississippi. The Since the All-Star game hasn’t been in Orlando in bounds, leading the Knights to a win. sophomore was able to become a key player in all twenty years, fans made sure they took full advan- His performance against the Hawks led Sykes aspects of the game for his team. tage of all the festivities, like the Jam Session at the to become the Bright House player-athlete of the “He needs to continue being the player who he Convention Center. week on Dec. 6. is,” said Jones of Sykes skills. “From rebounding, Some even headed to the local Walmart to see an- Sykes gained national attention with his Feb. 8 to offensive rebounding, to getting out and getting other All-Star. Kevin Love agreed with the NBA to set chase-down block against Marshall, and has since been buckets in transition, to getting fouled free throws.” up a station inside the Walmart on Kirkman Road to nominated for the Geico play of the year. The block was The Detroit native has made his name in Orlan- sign autographs and take pictures. also featured on Sports Center’s top ten plays. do as a Knight, and will continue to do so with two “It means a lot to me to be out here in Orlando,” Head coach Donnie Jones started his UCF coach- regular season games left before the start of the post- said Love. “It’s obviously a little bit different than Gary W. Green, Orlando Sentinel / MCT Green, W. Gary ing career during Sykes’ first season, and has been season in Memphis on March 7. last year’s all star in L.A. I’m going to have time to impressed with how he has been improving. “I’m very proud of him and his effort really set enjoy it and especially in a warmer climate.” Minnesota Timberwolves All-Star Kevin Love celebrates after he won this weekend’s 3-point shooting contest. “He’s starting to shoot threes now, when he starts the tone for the team,” said Jones of Sykes. Kevin Love won the three-point contest dur- www.ValenciaVoice.com SPORTS Feb. 29, 2012 19 Sweeney’s walk-off wins series Knights need consistency By Bryan Levine better,” said Rooney. “They need to UCF shortstop hits 2-out bases loaded double in 9th inning [email protected] pitch more efficiently. Brian Adkins got into too deep of counts, so he was By Mary Stevens Staring pitcher Chris Matulis pitched Ben Lively allowed three runs and The UCF baseball team is the no. getting hit around.” [email protected] four innings allowed two runs and struck struck out a career-high 11 batters, over six 19 ranked team in the nation, and de- Matulis threw a mediocre outing out three Eagles during Sunday’s game. innings during Friday’s game. servedly so. Sunday afternoon, in a game where Trailing in the ninth inning with bases “We need to pitch more efficiently. “We need a starting pitcher. I am going When their pitching is good, its his pitch count hit 94 with just one out loaded and two outs UCF shortstop Dar- Matulis was at 94 pitches going into the to shake this up a bit in the next couple of one of the best staffs in the nation, but in the fifth inning, which meant the nell Sweeney delivered a two walk-off sin- fourth, that’s too many,” said Rooney. games,” said Rooney. the problem is, you don’t know al- game was put in the hand of the bull- gle during Sunday’s game against Boston Pitcher Joe Rogers also aloud two runs UCF left the bases loaded three times ways know what you’re going to get pen early on. College, resulting in a series win. and struck out three during the two innings. and left a total of 12 runners on base dur- out of the Knights’ pitchers. Roman Madrid, who threw an in- “Darnell obviously had the big hit,” Pitcher Roman Madrid stacked up better ing the third game of the series. Throughout this weekend’s series ning to forget Friday night, was noth- said head coach Terry Rooney. “We hope during Sunday’s game than in Friday’s game “We still have to tighten up in a lot of against Boston College, seven differ- ing short of brilliant on Sunday. In 2.2 that it will become some kind of catalyst after he struck out five and aloud no runs. areas fundamentally,” said Rooney. ent pitchers threw for the Knights, innings, Madrid allowed just one hit for us moving forward.” “Our staring rotation they have to The Knights haven’t accomplished a se- two of which pitched both Friday and struck out five eagles, but most The Knights, the No. 19 baseball team had go deeper,” said Rooney after the game. ries win over an ACC opponent since 2004. and Sunday. importantly he kept the score tied for a 5-4 victory, and a 2-1 series over the Eagles. “Brian went into the fourth inning, Chris Rooney hopes a tough second week The weekend starters for the Joe Rogers. “We left them on the field and that is went into the fourth inning, and obviously rival will help set the tone for the season. Knights are Ben Lively, Brian Adkins, Rogers, the Knights’ closer, threw what you want to do when you are a home the highlight of the week from a starting “It’s the second week and I want it to be a and Chris Matulis. Through the first 3.2 innings during the weekend, team,” said Sweeney after the game. Swee- pitchers point is Ben Lively.” tougher weekend,” explained Rooney. two weekends this season, it’s clear struck out four and allowed just two ney had a total of four runs during the series. that Lively is the ace of the rotation. runs. Both runs came in the ninth in- The Knights briefly had the lead in the Lively has allowed just five hits ning of Sunday’s game, following one sixth inning after four runs were scored. and four earned runs in 11 innings of of three very questionable calls by the “What a series. That is college baseball work. He also struck out 15 batters, umpires on the afternoon. at its best. Three one run games. All three and fanned a career-high 11 batters “You never want to make excuses, going down essentially to the last three in- Friday night. but it was unfortunate how it all hap- nings,” said Rooney. “They [Boston Col- “I thought that was Ben Lively’s pened,” said Rogers. “There’s going lege] have a great club. They have some best start of his career, to be quite to be times when I’m off, or someone really good arms. Some experience in their honest with you,” said head coach is off, and I’m just glad my teammate line up so a lot of credit goes to those guys.” Terry Rooney. could pick me up.” The Eagles were delivered their first After Lively, it’s unsure whom one The Knights clearly have loads loss 6-5 on Friday. would consider as the number two of talent on the mound, if they man- The Knights lost 8-7 to Boston College starter. Entering the season, Rooney aged to stay consistent. In order to be in the second game of the series on Satur- was hoping Adkins would step up successful this year, they’ll need their day making it the first home loss. and fill the role, but he hasn’t been starters to step up and eat up more in- able to cease that position. nings, without letting up more runs. Adkins has allowed 15 hits, and The starters won’t be lights out ev- UCF vs. USF eight runs in only eight innings. At ery night, and it is unrealistic to expect Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m. one point in Saturday’s game against them to be. On the nights the starters at Jay Bergman Field BC, Adkins allowed four consecu- fail, they’ll need the relievers like Ma- tive singles, which led to four runs drid, Jimmy Reed and Eric Skoglund Check valenciavoice.com Tuesday that inning. to manage the game so that Rogers

night for a complete game recap. Voice Valencia Bryan / Levine “Our starting pitchers have to get has a chance to close it out. Travis Shreve slides safely at home to score his first of two runs on Friday night against BC. www.ValenciaVoice.com SPORTS Feb. 29, 2012 20 Jeff Siner, Charlotte Observer Charlotte / MCT Jeff Siner, Above: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Matt Kenseth (17) defeats Dale Earnhardt Jr. (88) and Greg Biffle (16) to win the Daytona 500 . Below: A fireball erupts from a track dryer truck after it was struck by driver Juan Pablo Montoya Monday night.

and released. He had an X-ray on his left foot, but said it’s “just a scratch,” and that he Fright night at Daytona is OK. He was not limping or wearing any kind of boot while leaving the care center. The truck driver was taken to the Hali- Rainy weather, deep burn extends race by 2 days fax Health Center, where, according to Fox TV, he is resting comfortably and under ob- By Matt Murschel and Brentley Romine of the sports’ biggest stars were eliminated servation. “It just felt really strange and as I The Orlando Sentinel from contention almost immediately. was talking in the radio the car just turned Five-time NASCAR champion Jimmie right,” Montoya told the Orlando Sentinel. Matt Kenseth won the Daytona 500 Johnson was bumped by Elliott Sadler and Montoya rode in the ambulance with early Tuesday morning. lost control of his car on the race’s second the driver of the truck.“I’m sure he’s pretty Dale Earnhardt Jr. finished second and lap, running into the wall and causing a shaken and is going to be sore, but I think Greg Biffle third. chain-reaction wreck. Among the other driv- he’s OK,” Montoya said. The race, which began around 7:15 ers caught up in the accident were Danica The vehicle has been described by Fox p.m. Monday, finally ended at approxi- Patrick, defending Daytona 500 champion commentators as “a jet engine that is used mately 12:56 a.m. Tuesday. It was marred Trevor Bayne, David Ragan and Kurt Busch. to dry the track.” It uses jet fuel, which by 10 cautions and a long delay after Juan All drivers were OK, and Bayne and caught fire. After several minutes and mul- Pablo Montoya ran into a track drying ve- Patrick later returned to the race although tiple attempts, the track crew was able to hicle during a caution. they were out of contention for a win. extinguish the fire. They removed the truck But through it all Kenseth ran near the Later, former NASCAR champion Jeff from the scene and track officials are exam- front, ultimately using one of the fastest Gordon blew his engine and left the race ining the extent of the damage to the track. cars on the track to bring home the trophy. and Martin Truex Jr. won a $200,000 bonus There is concern about the racing sur- The race was originally supposed to be for leading at the halfway point. face around turn 3, which has had a large run on Sunday afternoon, but was delayed The vehicle was out on the track blow- amount of jet fuel spilled on it. And, while several times during the day because of ing off debris. Montoya, who was running NASCAR has said it hopes to finish the rain and then finally postponed until Mon- by himself trying to catch up with the pack race, there is also rain in the forcast. day. The postponement was the first in and was getting ready to pass the vehicle, Landon Cassill is in second place, Tony race history. The race was then supposed lost control, possibly because of a transmis- Raines third and David Gilliland fourth to start at noon Monday, but was pushed sion problem, and smashed into the vehicle Montoya’s crazy wreck is just one of several back to 7 p.m., again because of rain. near turn 3, causing it to burst into flames. nutty events during this long race weekend. Joe Burbank, Orlando Sentinel / MCT Once the race did finally begin, a couple Montoya was taken to the care center — MCT Campus