A place for hope
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO Fla. – Students at VCC were educated about the incline in domestic violence when Robin Landwehr, a spokeswoman and shelter service manager for Harbor House; spoke on Tuesday, March 14 to students and faculty. Concerned about the growing population of domestic violence, spokeswoman Landwehr for Orlando’s Harbor House was invited to make a presentation about domestic violence by VCC Honor Society.
“As a nation, the abuse of women is on the decline; however, in our own backyard it is on the rise and Harbor House employees are there to answer the call.” Landwehr said, “Over 8,000 calls were made to police concerning domestic violence here in Orange County. “ Landwehr continued, “One in four women is slaves in their own home.”
Samantha Rogers, a student at Valencia East Campus said, “All people need more education on the topic of domestic violence. It is horrible to see my friend cry every night because of an abusive relationship.” She also said, “I wanted to see if I could get my friend some help and the meeting today gave me great information and places to go for help.”
Landwehr states their objective at Harbor House is to keep domestic violence victims and their children safe. “We have the best facilities in Orlando,” said Landwehr and it is a state certified institution. Harbor House does not discriminate, accepting anyone, in any situation. One of their missions is to educate the family about outreach programs that their staff has to offer each victim and their children.
The Orange County website on domestic violence indicates that, last year 3 million to 10 million children witnessed assaults against a parent by an intimate partner. It also states that most cases of abuse go unreported because of victim fears, including fear for their life.
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) secretary, Robert A. Butterworth said, “This past year, Florida Legislature appropriated 28 million dollars to promote and support programs the Governor believes will affect the change necessary to hold offenders accountable and support local organizations to make a difference and end this terrible crime.” Violence against women is an epidemic problem for our society. Orange County has the largest reported cases of domestic violence in the state of Florida.
Harbor House is a safe haven for abused woman and children. Their rule states no one is allowed on property and this includes: police officers, DCF case workers, and family members without prior notice. The shelter is an 88 bed facility, but they have seen as many as 113 residents in one night in some cases. The shelter’s staff provides legal assistance, outreach programs, and education to the women who have bravely sought out assistance.
“Our job at Harbor House is to attend to the needs of the less fortunate.” Landwehr said. They do not allow visitors in order to protect each person’s privacy. “The reason for that is the abused is already in a weekend state; we do not want to complicate it anymore.”
Ashton Owens, a student at Valencia said, “I have seen it firsthand; what abuse does to a family and I am glad there are organizations like Harbor House to help those that are in need.”
Stephanie Parenti, the president for Amnesty International USA, Valencia East Campus said, “The numbers are staggering. Already this year we have seen an increase of 25 percent of cases reported for domestic violence compared with the same time last year.” Unfortunately, the data for domestic violence is skewed because reporting it is uncommon for both the victim and the abuser.
Bernice Henry, a student at Valencia said, “The place where a woman is supposed to feel safe, at home with her partner and children, sometimes she feels like a slave because of the abuse. We need more sessions like the one today to educate the youth so domestic violence stops once and for all.”
Landwehr also confirmed the hardship for the children in an abusive home. She said, “Few options are out there for the children. We at Harbor House want to make the transition from their home to Harbor House as painless as possible.” We bus them to their school of record if they want, keep them with their parent in the same room, and give them some psychological help with counselors that are on staff.”
The average stay in Harbor House according to Landwehr is six to eight weeks; however they have seen people stay longer and others who recover in no time. The future is bright for Harbor House they are building a school for the children, recruiting legal assistance volunteers for the woman, and offering jobs to former residents that cannot locate employment.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Supporting the local community
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO Fla. – Mike Adkins, pastor for Grace Fellowship Church and a member of the board of directors for the Destiny Foundation, carved time from his busy schedule to speak in front of the journalism class about the programs he and his church members do for the local community and abroad.
“Our church is designed to bring people back to faith,” said Rev. Adkins, “We guide those people in their next step toward Christ.”
The Church members donated 500 bags of groceries to the working poor of Orlando at their ‘Easter at Eola’ celebration. Rev. Adkins said, “We had more than enough food and we would have liked for more people to show.”
Other organizations help the local committee, such as,The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida who are also helping the community with food drives and outreach programs. They predict with the economic downturn there will be twice as many people homeless this year than there were last year.
A spokesman for the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida said, “The Coalition is able to help nearly 650 people each day.” The employees at the Coalition are an all volunteer organization that help feed the homeless. “Last year, the Coalition served nearly 270,000 meals to the homeless.” However their mission is to not only feed the homeless but to, “Return our residents to self-sufficiency, through counseling, job training, and educational programs.”
The Department of Children and Families for the state of Florida admits due to the upturn in foreclosures, up 69% since last year, the homeless population is growing and in need of some serious help. Statistics from their web site show that all areas of assistance from the state and federal government are up. In February 2008, there were 436,315 applications form families applying for cash assistance it was an increase of 74,129 from one year before.
Rev. Adkins and the church members are also able to help the local community; by donating food, conducting outreach programs, and empowering people who are having difficulties. He also donates his time and money to places as far away as Africa, with contributions from the church members; Rev. Adkins and his close friends are able to visit and finance enough money for a drinking well system for the citizens of Rwanda.
Rev. Adkins praises the Destiny Foundation for their involvement in the community. To be eligible for the services at the Destiny Foundation you are pre-registered based on need. Rev. Adkins said, “There has been a dramatic increase of need because of the economic downturn, but we are thankful we can help.” He also said, “A lot of people at the Destiny Foundation help give back when they get on their feet.”
Rev. Adkins plans on extending his outreach in the future to other people in need. He would like to partner with other organizations to do more in helping, “assist battered women, serve the poor, take care of the fatherless, and help the widow’s.” He also plans to do more for the people of Africa; he plans a trip at least once a year to help them with medical issues and basic economic needs.
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO Fla. – Mike Adkins, pastor for Grace Fellowship Church and a member of the board of directors for the Destiny Foundation, carved time from his busy schedule to speak in front of the journalism class about the programs he and his church members do for the local community and abroad.
“Our church is designed to bring people back to faith,” said Rev. Adkins, “We guide those people in their next step toward Christ.”
The Church members donated 500 bags of groceries to the working poor of Orlando at their ‘Easter at Eola’ celebration. Rev. Adkins said, “We had more than enough food and we would have liked for more people to show.”
Other organizations help the local committee, such as,The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida who are also helping the community with food drives and outreach programs. They predict with the economic downturn there will be twice as many people homeless this year than there were last year.
A spokesman for the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida said, “The Coalition is able to help nearly 650 people each day.” The employees at the Coalition are an all volunteer organization that help feed the homeless. “Last year, the Coalition served nearly 270,000 meals to the homeless.” However their mission is to not only feed the homeless but to, “Return our residents to self-sufficiency, through counseling, job training, and educational programs.”
The Department of Children and Families for the state of Florida admits due to the upturn in foreclosures, up 69% since last year, the homeless population is growing and in need of some serious help. Statistics from their web site show that all areas of assistance from the state and federal government are up. In February 2008, there were 436,315 applications form families applying for cash assistance it was an increase of 74,129 from one year before.
Rev. Adkins and the church members are also able to help the local community; by donating food, conducting outreach programs, and empowering people who are having difficulties. He also donates his time and money to places as far away as Africa, with contributions from the church members; Rev. Adkins and his close friends are able to visit and finance enough money for a drinking well system for the citizens of Rwanda.
Rev. Adkins praises the Destiny Foundation for their involvement in the community. To be eligible for the services at the Destiny Foundation you are pre-registered based on need. Rev. Adkins said, “There has been a dramatic increase of need because of the economic downturn, but we are thankful we can help.” He also said, “A lot of people at the Destiny Foundation help give back when they get on their feet.”
Rev. Adkins plans on extending his outreach in the future to other people in need. He would like to partner with other organizations to do more in helping, “assist battered women, serve the poor, take care of the fatherless, and help the widow’s.” He also plans to do more for the people of Africa; he plans a trip at least once a year to help them with medical issues and basic economic needs.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
A visit from Mike Adkins
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO Fla. – Mike Adkins, pastor for Grace Fellowship Church and a member of the board of directors for the Destiny Foundation, carved time from his busy schedule to speak in front of the Journalism class about the programs he and his church members do for the local community and abroad.
“Our church is designed to bring people back to faith,” said Rev. Adkins, “We guide those people in their next step toward Christ.”
Rev. Adkins and the church members help the local community; by donating food, conducting outreach programs, and empowering people who are having difficulties. He also donates his time and money to places as far away as Africa, with contributions from the church members; Rev. Adkins and his close friends are able to visit and finance enough money for a drinking well system for the citizens of Rwanda.
The Church members donated 500 bags of groceries to the working poor of Orlando at their ‘Easter at Eola’ celebration. Rev. Adkins said, “We had more than enough food and we would have liked for more people to show.”
During his trips to Africa, Rev. Adkins has witnessed miracles. “When we first made it there they had many diseases because of dirty water. Now, drinking wells that provide fresh water have made a difference that helps the well-being of the villagers.”
Rev. Adkins praises the Destiny Foundation for their involvement in the community. To be eligible for the services at the Destiny Foundation you are pre-registered based on need. Rev. Adkins said, “There has been a dramatic increase of need because of the economic downturn, but we are thankful we can help.” He also said, “A lot of people at the Destiny Foundation help give back when they get on their feet.”
Rev. Adkins plans on extending his outreach in the future to other people in need. He would like to partner with other organizations to do more in helping, “assist battered women, serve the poor, take care of the fatherless, and help the widow’s.” He also plans to do more for the people of Africa; he plans a trip at least once a year to help them with medical issues and basic economic needs.
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO Fla. – Mike Adkins, pastor for Grace Fellowship Church and a member of the board of directors for the Destiny Foundation, carved time from his busy schedule to speak in front of the Journalism class about the programs he and his church members do for the local community and abroad.
“Our church is designed to bring people back to faith,” said Rev. Adkins, “We guide those people in their next step toward Christ.”
Rev. Adkins and the church members help the local community; by donating food, conducting outreach programs, and empowering people who are having difficulties. He also donates his time and money to places as far away as Africa, with contributions from the church members; Rev. Adkins and his close friends are able to visit and finance enough money for a drinking well system for the citizens of Rwanda.
The Church members donated 500 bags of groceries to the working poor of Orlando at their ‘Easter at Eola’ celebration. Rev. Adkins said, “We had more than enough food and we would have liked for more people to show.”
During his trips to Africa, Rev. Adkins has witnessed miracles. “When we first made it there they had many diseases because of dirty water. Now, drinking wells that provide fresh water have made a difference that helps the well-being of the villagers.”
Rev. Adkins praises the Destiny Foundation for their involvement in the community. To be eligible for the services at the Destiny Foundation you are pre-registered based on need. Rev. Adkins said, “There has been a dramatic increase of need because of the economic downturn, but we are thankful we can help.” He also said, “A lot of people at the Destiny Foundation help give back when they get on their feet.”
Rev. Adkins plans on extending his outreach in the future to other people in need. He would like to partner with other organizations to do more in helping, “assist battered women, serve the poor, take care of the fatherless, and help the widow’s.” He also plans to do more for the people of Africa; he plans a trip at least once a year to help them with medical issues and basic economic needs.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Sunday Divine Liturgy
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO, Fla. Father Sal Pignato, the priest at St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church, declares in his homily the significance of Jesus Christ as our savior as we continue to struggle in the tough economic times as Jesus struggled in the last days of his life.
“Bring your failures to the altar; Jesus will dissolve them, for when you receive the Holy Eucharist you accept Christ as your savior.”
The Divine Liturgy was presented to a crowd of 80 in St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church. The Divine Liturgy is the mystery of the Eucharist, the unbloody sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The purpose of the event is to prepare for the death of Jesus this being the forth Sunday of lent.
In 1984, Fr. Pignato was assigned the second pastor of St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church. In 1991, the church went from mission status to being a full fledge church. Today the church is a haven for travelers near and far because it is in a heavily populated tourist area, 5135 Sand Lake Rd. next to all the attractions.
Marcia Klinock, from Pennsylvania, says, “I am so happy my family and I have a place to worship while we are on vacation.” Then, Andrew Williams said, “My heart and soul is filled with happiness. The mystery and sacredness of the worship is why I go.”
The Divine Liturgy is free and open to the public every Saturday night at 4:30 p.m. and Sunday at 8:00 and 10:00 a.m.. The crowd was very calm and everyone departed with a smile on their face.
Fr. Pignato said, “We invite everyone to steep themselves in apostolic tradition and ancient liturgy and to be graced by the presence of the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We invite everyone to celebrate with us the mystery of the Eucharist of the Byzantine Catholic Church.
By Brian Cronin
ORLANDO, Fla. Father Sal Pignato, the priest at St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church, declares in his homily the significance of Jesus Christ as our savior as we continue to struggle in the tough economic times as Jesus struggled in the last days of his life.
“Bring your failures to the altar; Jesus will dissolve them, for when you receive the Holy Eucharist you accept Christ as your savior.”
The Divine Liturgy was presented to a crowd of 80 in St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church. The Divine Liturgy is the mystery of the Eucharist, the unbloody sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The purpose of the event is to prepare for the death of Jesus this being the forth Sunday of lent.
In 1984, Fr. Pignato was assigned the second pastor of St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church. In 1991, the church went from mission status to being a full fledge church. Today the church is a haven for travelers near and far because it is in a heavily populated tourist area, 5135 Sand Lake Rd. next to all the attractions.
Marcia Klinock, from Pennsylvania, says, “I am so happy my family and I have a place to worship while we are on vacation.” Then, Andrew Williams said, “My heart and soul is filled with happiness. The mystery and sacredness of the worship is why I go.”
The Divine Liturgy is free and open to the public every Saturday night at 4:30 p.m. and Sunday at 8:00 and 10:00 a.m.. The crowd was very calm and everyone departed with a smile on their face.
Fr. Pignato said, “We invite everyone to steep themselves in apostolic tradition and ancient liturgy and to be graced by the presence of the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We invite everyone to celebrate with us the mystery of the Eucharist of the Byzantine Catholic Church.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
WWII Hero Dies
By Brian Cronin
North Dakota Governor Will Ranklow announced the death of former North Dakota governor and WWII hero, Joe Voss, on Wednesday.
“I thought, ‘Someday I’m going to trade these horses for an airplane,”’ Voss said.
A highly decorated WWII, and Korean War veteran, Joe Voss shot down 26 enemy planes. He Won the “Metal of Honor” and Distinguished Flying Cross as a Marine Pilot during WWII, and he served as a colonel in the Air Force during the Korean War.
“I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to fly.” Joe Voss said in the opening sentence in his 1993 autobiography, Proud to Be an American.
He also served his community as a Republican in the state Legislature for five years before becoming governor in 1955. Voss served as governor for 2 consecutive 4-year terms.
Voss was born on a farm east of Wogansport, North Dakota, on April 17, 1915. He died in a hospital near his Scottsdale, Arizona home. Voss had not regained consciousness after he suffered an apparent aneurysm this summer. He suffered cerebral bleeding and collapsed before a public appearance in Beaverton, Michigan in June.
Voss spent time with sports after his stint in politics, he was the third commissioner of the Canadian Football League form 1965-75, hosted the television show “The Great Outdoorsman”, on ABC from 1973-78, and he was chosen president of the National Outdoorsman Association in 1988, serving through 1990.
“I always had the attitude that every day will be a great day,” Voss said in a 1987 interview. “I look forward to it like a kid in a candy store, wherever I am.”
By Brian Cronin
North Dakota Governor Will Ranklow announced the death of former North Dakota governor and WWII hero, Joe Voss, on Wednesday.
“I thought, ‘Someday I’m going to trade these horses for an airplane,”’ Voss said.
A highly decorated WWII, and Korean War veteran, Joe Voss shot down 26 enemy planes. He Won the “Metal of Honor” and Distinguished Flying Cross as a Marine Pilot during WWII, and he served as a colonel in the Air Force during the Korean War.
“I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to fly.” Joe Voss said in the opening sentence in his 1993 autobiography, Proud to Be an American.
He also served his community as a Republican in the state Legislature for five years before becoming governor in 1955. Voss served as governor for 2 consecutive 4-year terms.
Voss was born on a farm east of Wogansport, North Dakota, on April 17, 1915. He died in a hospital near his Scottsdale, Arizona home. Voss had not regained consciousness after he suffered an apparent aneurysm this summer. He suffered cerebral bleeding and collapsed before a public appearance in Beaverton, Michigan in June.
Voss spent time with sports after his stint in politics, he was the third commissioner of the Canadian Football League form 1965-75, hosted the television show “The Great Outdoorsman”, on ABC from 1973-78, and he was chosen president of the National Outdoorsman Association in 1988, serving through 1990.
“I always had the attitude that every day will be a great day,” Voss said in a 1987 interview. “I look forward to it like a kid in a candy store, wherever I am.”
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Police Chief Motivates
By Brian Cronin
“God will lead us in the right direction if we let him.” Chief Demings cried out.
Police Chief Val B. Demings took center stage preaching the word of God like a preacher at Sunday Mass, encouraging the student body and everyone else who attended the public service to get involved with community involvement through Christian based values.
Respected, spiritual, and motivational speaker, Police Chief Demings, invited by Faculty Advisor for Campus Crusade for Christ, Joe Marek, to speak about leadership and how God should influence our lives. The event also celebrated African American History month and honored Christ. Chief Demings is the first woman Police Chief in Orlando with well over 25 years of service to the community. Very well educated and much loved by her co-workers, she is a woman of faith.
Lights went down at 1 pm on a crowd of 80, when a loud voice emitted from the podium, “To God be the Glory for the things he had done.” Shortly after being introduced on Wednesday, Chief Demings turn the podium in the Performing Arts Center on the East campus of Valencia Community College into a preachers stand on a Sunday morning exulting and praising the word of God. The mood in the Auditorium was energetic with a few outbursts of applause.
After praising God, Chief Demings continued with her story. She enlightened the crowd with stories from her rookie years, the boundaries she had to breakthrough being a black woman in a predominant white male occupation, and having the courage to lead both mentally and physically in dire economic times, all the while inserting a few Bible scriptures that support her life story.
Ending her personal story, she took a few questions from the audience. An audience member who did not identify himself asked, “What will best help law enforcement to be better?” Chief Demings replied, “In law enforcement we need three things to better ourselves leaders in the community, well trained professional police, and citizen involvement and support.” Another question was fielded, “Will you incorporate the local churches and their following to help out the police?” She responded with a gleeful yes and went on to say, “The Orlando Police have instituted Operation Amoral where church goers and police go to the worst parts of town for forty days and pray.” Surprisingly, this actually worked she said. There was no crime in the area when these groups were present.
As the crowd was exiting, the audience explained. Jennifer Bittel said, “I am very motivated, it was encouraging to hear a woman succeed and understand that God was with her through all the challenging times.” Then Veronica Villalobos stated, “The part that touched me the most was when Chief Demings talked about her mission trips to other countries and the way children are treated in third world countries.”
Chief Demings continues to praise God for all of her achievements and ask God to grant her mental and moral strength so she can do her best at the job she is most passionate about. She eagerly invited all to volunteer and, “fear nothing, be a leader, [and] don’t let boundaries stand in your way.” Her primary concern is to reduce violent crime here in Orlando through Christian based law enforcement.
By Brian Cronin
“God will lead us in the right direction if we let him.” Chief Demings cried out.
Police Chief Val B. Demings took center stage preaching the word of God like a preacher at Sunday Mass, encouraging the student body and everyone else who attended the public service to get involved with community involvement through Christian based values.
Respected, spiritual, and motivational speaker, Police Chief Demings, invited by Faculty Advisor for Campus Crusade for Christ, Joe Marek, to speak about leadership and how God should influence our lives. The event also celebrated African American History month and honored Christ. Chief Demings is the first woman Police Chief in Orlando with well over 25 years of service to the community. Very well educated and much loved by her co-workers, she is a woman of faith.
Lights went down at 1 pm on a crowd of 80, when a loud voice emitted from the podium, “To God be the Glory for the things he had done.” Shortly after being introduced on Wednesday, Chief Demings turn the podium in the Performing Arts Center on the East campus of Valencia Community College into a preachers stand on a Sunday morning exulting and praising the word of God. The mood in the Auditorium was energetic with a few outbursts of applause.
After praising God, Chief Demings continued with her story. She enlightened the crowd with stories from her rookie years, the boundaries she had to breakthrough being a black woman in a predominant white male occupation, and having the courage to lead both mentally and physically in dire economic times, all the while inserting a few Bible scriptures that support her life story.
Ending her personal story, she took a few questions from the audience. An audience member who did not identify himself asked, “What will best help law enforcement to be better?” Chief Demings replied, “In law enforcement we need three things to better ourselves leaders in the community, well trained professional police, and citizen involvement and support.” Another question was fielded, “Will you incorporate the local churches and their following to help out the police?” She responded with a gleeful yes and went on to say, “The Orlando Police have instituted Operation Amoral where church goers and police go to the worst parts of town for forty days and pray.” Surprisingly, this actually worked she said. There was no crime in the area when these groups were present.
As the crowd was exiting, the audience explained. Jennifer Bittel said, “I am very motivated, it was encouraging to hear a woman succeed and understand that God was with her through all the challenging times.” Then Veronica Villalobos stated, “The part that touched me the most was when Chief Demings talked about her mission trips to other countries and the way children are treated in third world countries.”
Chief Demings continues to praise God for all of her achievements and ask God to grant her mental and moral strength so she can do her best at the job she is most passionate about. She eagerly invited all to volunteer and, “fear nothing, be a leader, [and] don’t let boundaries stand in your way.” Her primary concern is to reduce violent crime here in Orlando through Christian based law enforcement.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
NBA All-Star Weekend
Rookies versus Sophomores
Will this be the year for the rookies?
Starting off All-Star festivities will be the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam. A game consisting of nine rookies and nine sophomores, chosen by the NBA’s assistant coaches, will play against each other on Friday night kicking off one of the many events unfolding this All-Star weekend. A rookie team consisting of three players, all at least seven feet tall, will shot for the impossible, a win over the sophomores. The rookies are coached by Dwayne Wade and sophomores coached by Dwight Howard two respectful players in their own right.
Dwayne Wade, coaching Greg Oden, Brook Lopez and Marc Gasol will challenge a sophomore team for bragging rights, in favor of the rookies in this game. The last seven years were dominated by the sophomores, however, this year the rookies appear to have chance with a more physical rooster.
Abandoning the normal way other games are played, this game will have two twenty minute halves, player fouls count, but they cannot be fouled out and in the event of a tie, overtime will consist of two minutes that will determine the winner.
Key match ups will include Kevin Durant against Greg Oden two powerhouses in their own right but the rookie Oden has the height and weight advantage of the match up. Another match up, Clippers rookie guard Eric Gordon will be pitted against L.A.’s sophomore forward Al Thornton. This match up goes to the sophomore Al Thornton with a five inch height difference.
Recent history of the game has dire consequences for the rookies. Last year the sophomore Daniel Gibson gave the rookies 11 reasons why experience pays off. Gibson scored a record 11 three points that forced a lopsided victory over the rookies by the score of 136-109. In 2007 David lee the MVP of the game that year shot perfect against the rookies scoring all of his 14 field-goal attempts incurring another lopsided victory for the sophomores. In 2006 a game won by the sophomores but the rookies kept it close eventually relinquishing the game to the sophomores when Philadelphia’s Andre Iguodala, MVP of the game, scored 24 of his game-high 30 points in the second half. Seven straight years the same story sophomores win.
Along with talent, physical appearance, and pure determination the rookies have their best chance in a long time to win the game.
Will this be the year for the rookies?
Starting off All-Star festivities will be the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam. A game consisting of nine rookies and nine sophomores, chosen by the NBA’s assistant coaches, will play against each other on Friday night kicking off one of the many events unfolding this All-Star weekend. A rookie team consisting of three players, all at least seven feet tall, will shot for the impossible, a win over the sophomores. The rookies are coached by Dwayne Wade and sophomores coached by Dwight Howard two respectful players in their own right.
Dwayne Wade, coaching Greg Oden, Brook Lopez and Marc Gasol will challenge a sophomore team for bragging rights, in favor of the rookies in this game. The last seven years were dominated by the sophomores, however, this year the rookies appear to have chance with a more physical rooster.
Abandoning the normal way other games are played, this game will have two twenty minute halves, player fouls count, but they cannot be fouled out and in the event of a tie, overtime will consist of two minutes that will determine the winner.
Key match ups will include Kevin Durant against Greg Oden two powerhouses in their own right but the rookie Oden has the height and weight advantage of the match up. Another match up, Clippers rookie guard Eric Gordon will be pitted against L.A.’s sophomore forward Al Thornton. This match up goes to the sophomore Al Thornton with a five inch height difference.
Recent history of the game has dire consequences for the rookies. Last year the sophomore Daniel Gibson gave the rookies 11 reasons why experience pays off. Gibson scored a record 11 three points that forced a lopsided victory over the rookies by the score of 136-109. In 2007 David lee the MVP of the game that year shot perfect against the rookies scoring all of his 14 field-goal attempts incurring another lopsided victory for the sophomores. In 2006 a game won by the sophomores but the rookies kept it close eventually relinquishing the game to the sophomores when Philadelphia’s Andre Iguodala, MVP of the game, scored 24 of his game-high 30 points in the second half. Seven straight years the same story sophomores win.
Along with talent, physical appearance, and pure determination the rookies have their best chance in a long time to win the game.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Wakeboarding Student
By Brian Cronin
Nick Foren, a 19-year-old, Semi-Professional Wakeboarder, wakeboarding is a water sport where a boat pulls an athlete by ropes and handles and the athlete does tricks, who attends Valencia Community College, has his plate full. A native of Detroit, Michigan, he moved to Central Florida to take advantage of the weather to train almost everyday and still have time to attend a great school like VCC. Along with his studies and grueling practice schedule, Foren also finds time to work because wakeboarding is an expensive sport.
Sponsors provide Foren with the necessary funds to play the sport. He explained, “This sport is so expensive I could not make it without help.” The company that sponsors Foren is Helium a premier distributor of life jackets, vests, ropes, handles, and neoprene tops. They provide funds for Forens wakeboard, boat, ropes and handles, gloves, cloths, and accessories. With wakeboards starting at $100, boats at more then $4,000 and countless other necessities, the sponsors don’t deny it takes money to compete according to the online website Ski Pro. Some of the gear that Foren uses is a Hyperlite wakeboard. Hyperlite wakeboards are a manufacture of wakeboards and the pioneers of the sport since its inception in 1991. They proudly craft their wakeboards to the standards set by their customers, athletes and themselves on the shores of Lake Sammamish in the United States
Starting at age 11, Foren worked at his craft, earning a few awards at local events. He developed into a Semi-Professional in the Junior Men’s Division when he received payments to participate in certain events. Last year he attended the first two stops of the Pro Wakeboard Tour. His dream includes moving on to becoming a professional wakeboarder one day. Hard work and dedication and a good education from Valencia give Foren the tools to make this dream a reality.
Staying in shape is the key to his success, says Foren so he trains daily. His workouts include: cardio three times a week, upper body twice a week and lower body workouts the other two days, “The whole body needs to be in tune for a person to succeed in this sport.” clarified Foren. Practicing at the local Lakes, Clear Lake and Lake Holden, put Foren above his competition. He rides twice a day and goes to Orlando Water sports Complex three times a week.
Eight years of experience, a good education, and continued countless hours of training, Foren knows the maneuvers, or tricks as he put it, in his sport, do not come without risk. Able to do a 720 (spinning his body in the air a full two rotations), Foren acknowledges he must still work at his tricks. “I do not want to put my life in jeopardy.” He is aware that a good education can eventually give him the edge on his competition when it comes down to the becoming a professional Wakeboarder and he is proud to say that he started his college education at Valencia Community College.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Governor Speaks to Town at VCC
By: Brian Cronin/Valencia Voice Reporter
Osceola Campus--Florida Governor Charlie Crist spoke at a town hall meeting to address the concerns of the public, January 26, 2009, 6pm. More than 160 people attended this meeting to address concerns ranging from property taxes, to foreclosures, to education, and finally the economy. The crowd was energized to see the Governor and ask their questions but a time constraint allowed for only a few to be heard.
After the introductions of the state and local government officials, Governor Crist spoke informally by leaving the podium to address his constituents, “we are all in it together.” His opening comments focused on the unprecedented economic instability we are all experiencing. He continued to express that even though times are tough and worry is real, “the sun will come up in Florida.”
Before arriving at Valencia, Crist visited a workforce center in Central Florida to address the growing unemployment rate. He recommended visiting employflorida.com as an aid for all residents. Like many others, he is unhappy with the 8.1% and rising unemployment rate.
Jerry Lee Jackson, Kissimmee, the first to ask a question addressed a concern, several attendees had regarding property taxes. “This is a question from my mom, her property taxes have gone from $25,000 to $50,000, why?” Governor Crist replied they should not be doing that with the amendment that was passed last year, and an appeal to the county can be made. This would allow a new appraisal to be made and taxes adjusted.
A part time realtor, native to Florida, asked the question, “What is the state planning to do to decrease the foreclosure rate?” Crist responded by saying he and the members of the government have asked banks to work out negotiations and to free up money so the working class can afford housing. He further asked the public for their help by going to their state senators and representatives to put policy into laws that would specifically address those issues.
The podium was turned over to the Lieutenant Governor Jeff Kottkamp. He fielded the education question from Marion Carrol, a Florida PTA representative. How does the stimulus plan effect education? He replied by answering, “All this has to play out.” As an advocate and believer that education is the great equalizer to the economy, he realizes that funding is a critical question.
After addressing a few more questions, the Governor concluded by quoting President Lincoln, “a government of the people, by the people, for the people,” saying that this is the type of government he wants to be a part of by continue to be invited to forums, like this, that grant him the opportunity to interact with the people elected him to this job.
By: Brian Cronin/Valencia Voice Reporter
Osceola Campus--Florida Governor Charlie Crist spoke at a town hall meeting to address the concerns of the public, January 26, 2009, 6pm. More than 160 people attended this meeting to address concerns ranging from property taxes, to foreclosures, to education, and finally the economy. The crowd was energized to see the Governor and ask their questions but a time constraint allowed for only a few to be heard.
After the introductions of the state and local government officials, Governor Crist spoke informally by leaving the podium to address his constituents, “we are all in it together.” His opening comments focused on the unprecedented economic instability we are all experiencing. He continued to express that even though times are tough and worry is real, “the sun will come up in Florida.”
Before arriving at Valencia, Crist visited a workforce center in Central Florida to address the growing unemployment rate. He recommended visiting employflorida.com as an aid for all residents. Like many others, he is unhappy with the 8.1% and rising unemployment rate.
Jerry Lee Jackson, Kissimmee, the first to ask a question addressed a concern, several attendees had regarding property taxes. “This is a question from my mom, her property taxes have gone from $25,000 to $50,000, why?” Governor Crist replied they should not be doing that with the amendment that was passed last year, and an appeal to the county can be made. This would allow a new appraisal to be made and taxes adjusted.
A part time realtor, native to Florida, asked the question, “What is the state planning to do to decrease the foreclosure rate?” Crist responded by saying he and the members of the government have asked banks to work out negotiations and to free up money so the working class can afford housing. He further asked the public for their help by going to their state senators and representatives to put policy into laws that would specifically address those issues.
The podium was turned over to the Lieutenant Governor Jeff Kottkamp. He fielded the education question from Marion Carrol, a Florida PTA representative. How does the stimulus plan effect education? He replied by answering, “All this has to play out.” As an advocate and believer that education is the great equalizer to the economy, he realizes that funding is a critical question.
After addressing a few more questions, the Governor concluded by quoting President Lincoln, “a government of the people, by the people, for the people,” saying that this is the type of government he wants to be a part of by continue to be invited to forums, like this, that grant him the opportunity to interact with the people elected him to this job.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
sports news
Obama Supports Changes to BCS
President Barack Obama supports a controversial playoff system in the Bowl Championship Series (BCS). A playoff system in college football will allow the top teams to truly compete regardless of what league they belong to. The BCS Presidential Oversight Committee neglects to believe that anything is wrong with the current selection of bowl candidates; while a majority of the college viewing audience believe that a playoff needs to be put into place for a champion to be crowned. As President, Obama will use his influence to have a playoff system. Obama made his opinion clear at his appearance on Monday Night Football, November 12, 2008, one of the biggest stages for American sports fans. “I think it’s about time we had playoffs in college football. I’m fed up with these computer rankings and this, that, and the other. Get eight teams—the top eight teams, right at the end. You got a playoff. Decide on a national champion.” Days later in an interview with 60 Minutes, Obama also stated, “he will use his influence as president to create such a system.” With all of President Obama’s involvement on this matter, the situation looks bleak. BCS Presidential Oversight Committee has the final say. They have discussed the future of postseason football on numerous occasions and believe that it would not be in the best interest of the sport to have a playoff. Continuing with a computer ranking system, in many fans eyes, will only lead to a show down of BCS picks, instead of a real showmanship of the best of the best in collegiate football.
President Barack Obama supports a controversial playoff system in the Bowl Championship Series (BCS). A playoff system in college football will allow the top teams to truly compete regardless of what league they belong to. The BCS Presidential Oversight Committee neglects to believe that anything is wrong with the current selection of bowl candidates; while a majority of the college viewing audience believe that a playoff needs to be put into place for a champion to be crowned. As President, Obama will use his influence to have a playoff system. Obama made his opinion clear at his appearance on Monday Night Football, November 12, 2008, one of the biggest stages for American sports fans. “I think it’s about time we had playoffs in college football. I’m fed up with these computer rankings and this, that, and the other. Get eight teams—the top eight teams, right at the end. You got a playoff. Decide on a national champion.” Days later in an interview with 60 Minutes, Obama also stated, “he will use his influence as president to create such a system.” With all of President Obama’s involvement on this matter, the situation looks bleak. BCS Presidential Oversight Committee has the final say. They have discussed the future of postseason football on numerous occasions and believe that it would not be in the best interest of the sport to have a playoff. Continuing with a computer ranking system, in many fans eyes, will only lead to a show down of BCS picks, instead of a real showmanship of the best of the best in collegiate football.
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