Cerritos College
Cerritos College • Norwalk, Calif.

Talon Marks
Cerritos College • Norwalk, Calif.

Talon Marks
Cerritos College • Norwalk, Calif.

Talon Marks
Fatima Durrani

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor

Fatima Durrani is the Opinion Editor & c0-online editor for Talon Marks. She is a Journalism major for Pre-law, and this is her last semester at Talon Mark before she transfers to a university. In addition to reporting, Fatima enjoys singing, editing photos, creating short films and reading poetry.

All content by Fatima Durrani
Being a mompreneur during the pandemic: a podcast

Being a mompreneur during the pandemic: a podcast

Fatima Durrani and Clarissa Arceo • May 22, 2022
We interviewed Maria Buenrostro, owner of Buenrostro Tax Consultants, who shared the challenges and rewards of balancing life as a mother and business owner during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wings Zine Page - Mompreneurs

Wings Zine Page – Mompreneurs

Fatima Durrani and Clarissa Arceo • May 13, 2022

As war continues on with the conflict between Israel and Palestine, many children are left with mental trauma and hardly have anything to eat. The world hardly speaks out on this issue regardless of oppression taking place. Photo credit: Courtesy of Pixabay

Why is the world silent on minority oppression?

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • May 12, 2022
Minorities across the globe are suffering and the entire world chooses to stay silent simply because they’re not White or Christian. Where’s the love for the people who are facing oppression worldwide, receiving little to no coverage?
Many mothers during the pandemic were burdened with having to keep themselves as well as their children safe from the deadly virus. Jaime Valladares was one of the many caring for a newborn, balancing a business and tending to her family.

Being a mom during the pandemic

Fatima Durrani and Clarissa Arceo • April 28, 2022
The COVID-19 pandemic paid everyone a rather unpleasant visit- more specifically, mothers and especially those balancing motherhood and owning a small business. We've interviewed some of the most hardworking mothers - who've become our heroes without capes.
April 27, 2022 – Page 8

April 27, 2022 – Page 8

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • April 27, 2022

April 27, 2022 – Page 7

April 27, 2022 – Page 7

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • April 27, 2022

March 30, 2022 – Page 10

March 30, 2022 – Page 10

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • March 30, 2022

March 30, 2022 – Page 9

March 30, 2022 – Page 9

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • March 30, 2022

Euphoria is a popular show on HBO Max following troubled teen life at Euphoria High starring Zendaya. Photo credit: Courtesy of: Creative Commons & Photo Credit: Nichelle Stephens

HBO Max pushes boundaries with hit show Euphoria

Clarissa Arceo and Fatima Durrani • March 28, 2022
Euphoria has sparked controversy amongst the public on what is considered to be ‘too much’ to show on television due to its dramatic portrayal of teen life, staring actress Zendaya.
Cerritos High School, home of the dons, has students left in fear after a shooting incident that occurred off campus and a fight that broke out on campus. Students, teachers and parents are worried for their safety- and they believe that the ABCUSD isnt taking proper actions.

[Photo] Gun threat causes panic at Cerritos High School

March 28, 2022

Cerritos High School, home of the dons, has students left in fear after a shooting incident that occurred off campus and a fight that broke out on campus. Students, teachers and parents are worried for...

Cerritos High School, home of the dons, has students left in fear after a shooting incident that occurred off campus and a fight that broke out on campus. Students, teachers and parents are worried for their safety- and they believe that the ABCUSD isnt taking proper actions.

Gun threat causes panic at Cerritos High School

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • March 28, 2022
A gun threat was posed at Cerritos High School on March 16 leaving parents, students and teachers are left concerned about the safety of students.
If one chooses to go to a community college and transfer to a university, they shouldnt get backlash. Community college is a blessing to education, and a wiser move. Photo credit: Courtesy of Acc3552

Community college is a life hack

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • March 28, 2022
People often go to community college and receive a heavy amount of backlash in society. Those people fail to realize that transferring after community college is a wise stepping stone.
This is an image of people who were protesting the death of Trayvon Martin with this amazing-looking sign. This took place in downtown Milwaukee and the image was taken on June 17, 2012. (Creative Commons) Photo credit: Overpass Light Brigade

Racism is here to stay

Samuel Chacko, Jaelyn Delos Reyes, and Fatima Durrani • March 23, 2022
Corruption within the world is something that happens on a daily basis. But why is there racism even during the midst of a war?
The following flyer was constructed by two anonymous people who are standing in support of CTE teachers. The similarities and differences are fully written out represent inequity amongst teachers who have the same credentials. Another attempt to convince the ABCUSD will take place at the board meeting on March 1.

ABCUSD refuses equal pay amongst teachers

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor, Online Editor • March 3, 2022
For over two years now, the ABCUSD has denied paying Career Technical Education teachers a fair salary. CTE teachers express their concern for job security, cost of living in southern California and are left feeling disrespected by their own district.
America has been under a global climate crisis for a long period of time - chaos is now interfering with our livable climate and if we dont do anything to preserve it, parts of California could submerge as soon as 2040.

California is becoming an unlivable state

Samuel Chacko, Clarissa Arceo, and Fatima Durrani • March 3, 2022
Due to various factors such as global climate change, California is becoming a burdensome state with an unpromised future.
NASA is currently offering their program called NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars, which is open to community college students interested in establishing a STEM career with NASA. With engaging activities to help students achieve authentic job shadowing opportunities and internships, Cerritos College is excited to introduce the NASA program.

Cerritos College offers NASA career opportunity

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor, Online Editor • March 3, 2022
Are you interested in a career at NASA regardless of your major? NASA has designed a program specifically for community college students to open the doors of many opportunities for them.
February 23, 2022 – Page 8

February 23, 2022 – Page 8

Fatima Durrani and Lily Marmolejo • February 23, 2022

February 23, 2022 – Page 7

February 23, 2022 – Page 7

Fatima Durrani and Lily Marmolejo • February 23, 2022

President of Cerritos College, Jose Fierro, hosts an Instagram live event to communicate with participants virtually and safely.

President’s hour on Instagram live

Fatima Durrani and Samuel Chacko • February 22, 2022
Cerritos College president Jose Fierro hosted an Instagram live to chat with viewers about the College's return to campus in March.
With only a success rate of 24.4%, AP classes leave students with a poor mental health with factors like anxiety, fatigue and are left overwhelmed. We need to put an end to these classes that cause emotional damage for the sake of the youth. Photo credit: Courtesy of CC0 Public Domain & Courtesy of Mohamad Hassan

AP Classes: Are They Worth It?

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor, Online Editor • February 16, 2022
The Advanced Placement program, run by the College Board, allows high school students to take special courses that qualify for college credit. However, the pressure of studying rigorous introductory college courses as a high school student simply isn’t worth the pressure and here’s why.
The Me Too movement is a social movement against sexual harassment. Many women had the courage to share their story during this time, but sadly women continue to get sexually harassed. Its time to put this to an end by educating the youth (specifically men) about how to treat a woman the right way. Photo credit: Courtesy of Pixabay & Courtesy of Surdumihail

Men need to stop over-sexualizing women

Fatima Durrani, Jaelyn Delos Reyes, and Kara Alexander • February 15, 2022
Women all over the state of California, young or adult, are being oversexualized by men in school, work or in every day routine. Not only are women being oversexualized, but they’re being held to conventional beauty standards they’re pressured to meet.
The ABCUSD will be holding a board meeting on Feb. 15 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. Those who care and are able to make it should show up and demand a higher pay for CTE teachers.

ABCUSD neglects equal pay for CTE teachers

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor, Online Editor • February 15, 2022
The ABC Unified School District refuses to take action in updating a contract enables Career Technical Education teachers to adjust for California’s cost of living. ABCUSD fails to realize that this could ruin the future of students who enjoy artistic or technical pathways.
Cerritos College offers numerous support programs through Student Health Services as well as Student Accessibility Services. Cerritos College welcomes those who are in need of physical and mental health to these programs.

Benefits of joining support groups during tough times

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • February 10, 2022
Grief is a response to loss whether that's in the form of a loved one's death or departure from your life. Although everyone reacts to loss differently, it's important to reach out for help to prevent falling into major depression.
Feb. 14 is just weeks away, and time is running out to get her something meaningful to express your love for her, which is why we put together a list of favorites shes bound to love.

Valentine’s Day gift ideas for her

Fatima Durrani, Opinon Editor • February 9, 2022
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it can be hard to make the decision of getting your Valentine a gift that she’ll never forget. Whether it’s a romantic poem or a meaningful dinner for her, we’ve put together a list based on things she’ll be grateful for - that aren’t just classic red roses.
Valentines Day is around the corner, so dont stall to get him something meaningful to express your love for him. Photo credit: Courtesy of Creative Commons Zero - CC0

Valentine’s Day gift ideas for him

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • February 9, 2022
It can be difficult finding a gift that'll make the man in your life feel special. To help you find the perfect Valentine's Day gift for him, we've created a list of best-selling, thoughtful presents that he will love- especially if it’s from you.
Valentines Day is the holiday where people rush to show appreciation towards their partner or a loved ones. Its time to normalize showing that love as much as possible - not just on a holiday.

Love shouldn’t just be shown on Valentine’s Day

Fatima Durrani and Samuel Chacko • February 2, 2022
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s important to remember that your valentine deserves appreciation 365 days a year. Although this holiday is specifically for admiration, why not make almost everyday feel like it’s Valentine’s Day?
Cherise Charleswell, development manager of Journey Out, educated about twenty participants on how sex trafficking involves vulnerability. Charleswell said its important to notice red flags such as signs of discomfort within the victim.

The fight against sex trafficking includes vulnerability

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • February 2, 2022
Journey Out, a nonprofit organization for victims of sexual exploitation & trafficking, was invited by Cerritos College to educate viewers of how victims of sexual trafficking continue to have their lives destroyed. On Jan. 26, advocate Cherise Charleswell spoke to participants about the vulnerability victims experience and how to help.
Cerritos College aims to provide financial relief by forgiving the debt of unpaid students in the hopes of keeping them enrolled in schools. Statistics show a large decline in enrollment - specifically in community colleges.

Cerritos College forgives $1.3 million in unpaid student fees

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • January 20, 2022
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, community college students have been hit hard financially, physically and mentally, which resulted in a major enrollment decline. On Jan. 6th, Cerritos College forgave 2,400 unpaid student accounts from summer 2020 to fall 2021.
The following steps here are listed to take preventions in stalking that a victim is experiencing. This informative slide was shared during the Stalking Must Stop/Speak Out Zoom meeting at Cerritos College on Jan. 18. Human Trafficking and Stalking Awareness Month will continue to have events from Jan. 19 - 20 & Jan. 25 - 27.

Stalking must stop. Speak out.

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • January 19, 2022
According to the CDC, about one-in-six women and one-in-seventeen men experience stalking. It's a common form of danger - which is why prevention is crucial.
Food delivery drivers work hard to provide an excellent service to their customers, only to get paid less than minimum wage and rarely any tips. Customers should realize the risks these employees take, and have the common courtesy to tip them ranging from 10-20% of their order. These jobs are the only source of income for many of the workers which means they rely on tips by customers of the platforms.

Delivery drivers deserve a better wage

Fatima Durrani, Opinion Editor • January 13, 2022
Making up 95% of COVID-19 cases in the US, Omicron has hit the pandemic record. During this dangerous time, delivery drivers are risking their health for the convenience of customers only to get paid less than minimum wage for their effort which is unjust considering the hard work they do.
Charles Ellis helps customers Stephen Clark and Melissa Enright of Valley Glen with a Christmas tree they picked out while shopping at Santa & Sons Christmas Trees in Los Angeles Sherman Oaks neighborhood. (Mel Melcon/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

How to survive family toxicity during the holidays

Roman Acosta and Fatima Durrani • December 7, 2021
How to handle family members political differences for the holidays
Dr. Jose Fierro, president of Cerritos College, expressed how important student retention is. Dr. Fierro said that it will take a long, collaborative effort to address the concern of enrollment decline.

Enrollment for the spring 2022 semester declines dramatically

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • December 7, 2021
Compared to previous academic years, the student enrollment statewide has dropped about 17% in the spring 2021 semester. On Dec. 7, the academic affairs hosted an enrollment forum to discuss resolutions to enrollment challenges that arose due the pandemic.
27-year-old musician Harry Styles presented his album, Fine Line, during his tour. Styles cracked jokes with the audience encouraging them to have fun, dance and sing their heart out.

Harry Styles leaves fans starstruck at The Forum

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • November 23, 2021
The Forum was shaken by screams of passionate fans as singer Harry Styles came to stage after the opening by Jenny Lewis. Styles' "Love On Tour" ran from Nov. 17 - Nov. 20 with sold out seats and a fashionable crowd.
Singer Harry Styles performed in Los Angeles for three sold out nights from Nov. 17 - 20. Styles fanbase was moved by the way he performed his incredible falsettos, choreography and with his hard working instrumental team.

Harry Styles melts hearts after giving stunning show at The Forum

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • November 23, 2021
27-year-old singer Harry Styles performed at The Forum from Nov. 17 - 20, ensuring that he lights up our world like nobody else. The former vocalist from One Direction used his angelic voice to stir the crowd, leaving his fans starstruck.
Icelandic artist Björgúlfsson displays his masterpiece called Artics Are Not For Everyone. This display represents various themes such as evolution, nature and humanity. The exhibit runs from Oct. 24 - Nov. 6 at Cerritos College in the fine arts buildiing.

Heimir Björgúlfsson’s unique habitat at Cerritos College

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • November 3, 2021
Heimir Björgúlfsson's exhibition “Arctics Are Not For Everyone," calls attention to the effects of urbanization and climate change.
Muslims fear going to their place of worship because of previous hate incidents against their religion. Its heartbreaking for them to deal with this struggle on a daily basis. Muslims experience a large amount of verbal and/or physical harassment for practicing Islamic faith. Photo credit: Fatima Durrani

Muslims shouldn’t fear going to their place of worship

Fatima Durrani • October 21, 2021
A 7-year-old Black girl was forced to remove her hijab by her own teacher, leaving her traumatized the same way most Muslim women are discriminated in the workplace. According to New America, there have been a rise in anti-Muslim activities from 2012 to 2018.
President Jose Fierro discusses the requirement of vaccination cards starting Nov. 1. The vaccine and mask mandate will remain effective throughout the spring 2022 semester. COVID-19 cases have decreased at Cerritos College and Dr. Fierro hopes to keep them down by implementing guidelines in accordance to CDC.

President Fierro discusses vaccine requirement for spring 2022

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • October 21, 2021
Cerritos College President Jose Fierro conversed with viewers on Instagram live with questions regarding the vaccine mandate for the spring semester. The requirement for proof of vaccination or weekly COVID-19 testing starts Nov. 2021.
Proven ways to reduce stress podcast

Proven ways to reduce stress podcast

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • October 20, 2021
In this podcast are proven methods by psychologists on how to relieve stress or anxiety.
A Field Guide To The Timelessness of Now can be seen on the fine arts building at Cerritos College from Oct. 10th - 23rd.

Jason Jenn displays a metallic masterpiece at Cerritos College

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • October 20, 2021
Jason Jenn shows the symbolic divinity within nature in his beautiful work titled "A Field Guide To The Timelessness of Now."
Gobi Ice Cream has delicious and unique flavors with a variety of options for toppings. The flavors displayed in the image (left to right) are coffee, chocolate and strawberry.

Cerritos’ hidden gem dessert place

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • October 14, 2021
Offering 14 different ice cream roll flavor options, Gobi Ice Cream lives up to the hype of being both delicious and unique. Gobi Ice Cream offers fresh, handcrafted ice cream rolls with 18 different topping options in addition to whipped cream & drizzle.
As menstruation occurs, painful symptoms such as cramps, bloating, fatigue, dizziness and weakness affect individuals. Its important to take time to rest during the process.

Young girls should get excused absences for menstrual pain

Fatima Durrani and Lily Marmolejo • October 14, 2021
It’s time to give more attention to young women’s health issues and excuse their absences for menstrual pain.
Sindy Arzate, 20, is excited for spectators to see her team blow away the audience with stunts. She adjusts to returning to cheerleading after a year of remote learning.

Sindy Arzate readjusts to cheerleading as events resume

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • October 9, 2021
After a year of remote learning, Cerritos College cheerleader, Sindy Arzate, 20, readjusts to in-person practice.
Soldiers of the 79th Infantry Division Combat Team participated in the San Diego Pride Parade. Attendance of the pride parade including 79th IBCT Soldiers and other service members signed the California National Guard’s banner on July 13, 2019. Photo credit: California National Guard

Biden administration rewards shunned LGBTQ heroes with benefits

Matthew Espinosa, Gustavo Olivares-Molina, and Fatima Durrani • September 30, 2021
Ignored for years, LGBTQ service members finally receive government aid from Department of Veteran Affairs.
Samantha Curameng listens to viewers about their experiences related to stress. Future sessions on the Lets Talk About Stress Group will be held every Monday of October.

Mental Health therapists explain ways to manage stress

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 30, 2021
The student health department at Cerritos College hosted a meeting on Sep. 27, where viewers were taught how to balance stress to better their mental health.
Be prepared to binge watch TV shows as Netflix begins to release new seasons of many TV shows. You is set to premiere on Netflix on Oct. 15th, 2021. Photo credit: Deepak

Psychotic couple comes back to Netflix

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 27, 2021
The hit psychological thriller series, "You", released a trailer for their upcoming season. Season three premieres on Oct.15 on Netflix and is expected to start conversations.
President Fierro of Cerritos College acknowledges every viewer as they join onto his Instagram live. Fierro informed viewers about athletic games resuming, cases getting under control and the vaccine mandate which will occur on Oct. 1. Photo credit: Fatima Durrani

President Fierro discusses vaccine mandate, spring semester via Instagram Live

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 23, 2021
President of Cerritos College communicates with viewers on Instagram Live regarding updates such as next semester and the vaccine mandate starting Oct. 1.
Customers walk to the new Daves Hot Chicken location which opened on Sept. 12. There were busy lines inside the red-lit store with customers eager to try spicy chicken. Photo credit: Fatima Durrani

Nashville-style chicken spot opens in Lakewood for Spice Lovers

Fatima Durrani • September 18, 2021
Daves’ Hot Chicken comes to Lakewood-bound to impress those who want an enjoyable burn. Offering halal chicken burgers, tenders and more, the fast-food chain opened on Sept. 12th.
LA County is reporting that COVID-19 cases are rising in K-12 schools. Students return to Norwalk High School and follow safety restrictions such as wearing a face mask and social distancing on Aug. 12, 2021 Photo credit: Vincent Medina

Local K-12 students express fear as COVID-19 cases rise

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 16, 2021
As the Delta variant of COVID-19 spreads at an alarming rate, K-12 students in LA County and Orange County are worried schools may shut down again.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks ahead of Vice President Kamala Harris at a rally against the coming California gubernatorial recall election at the IBEW-NECA Joint Apprenticeship Training Center on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 in San Leandro, California. Photo credit: Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times/TNS

Vote for Newsom, even if you don’t like him

Jazmin Taha, Vincent Medina, and Fatima Durrani • September 9, 2021
Governor Gavin Newsom is the best candidate for California as we continue through the pandemic vote no on recall to help protect our state.
Christopher Anthony Velascos art titled Forbidden Photos Of A Doctor Above Suspicion is displayed in the windows of the Fine Arts building at Cerritos College. This exhibit runs from Aug. 30-Sept.11 2021.

Christopher Anthony Velasco displays masterpiece at Cerritos College

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 9, 2021
A window dressing on-campus shows artist Christopher Anthony Velasco's masterpiece "Forbidden Photos of a Doctor Above Suspicion," displayed in the Fine Arts building from August 30 to September 11.
Simu Liu in the Marvel Studios film, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Photo credit: Jasin Boland/Marvel Studios/TNS

Marvel Releases Shang-Chi & the Legend of Ten Rings

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 2, 2021
Shang-Chi and the Legend of Ten Rings, a new Marvel film, is set to release Sept. 3 2021 and is expected to be a hit movie.
A vaccinated person leaves the FEMA operated vaccination site at Miami Dade College - North Campus in Miami on Monday, April 5, 2021. Florida is now seeing a record number of deaths as the delta variant continues to surge through much of the U.S. Photo credit: Daniel A. Varela/Miami Herald/TNS

California Community Colleges should mandate COVID-19 vaccines

Fatima Durrani, Lily Marmolejo, and Gustavo Olivares-Molina • September 2, 2021
California Community Colleges are the largest academic institutions in our country, but with few colleges require COVID-19 vaccines, a unified call for leadership is necessary to mandate all 116 campuses require proof of vaccination in order to protect students and faculty staff.
Afghans, Afghan Americans, and allies march on Willshire Blvd in Los Angeles, Calif. demanding Congress members and President Biden to extend the evacuation of Afghans until Aug. 31st. Protestors on Aug. 28th hold a poster saying Zindabad Afghanistan which translates to long live Afghanistan.

Afghan Americans protest for refugee aid in LA

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 2, 2021
Afghan Americans from SoCal march towards the U.S. Federal Building in Los Angeles in efforts to aid Afghan refugees in America.
President Fierro acknowledges viewers as they join his Instagram live for Presidents Hour. Students, staff, parents and visitors ask questions regarding any updates Fierro has about Cerritos College on Aug. 31, 2021.

President Fierro elaborates on upcoming mask, vaccine mandate

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • September 2, 2021
Cerritos College President, Dr. Fierro, goes live to answer questions about the college.
Sophomore student Khoa Nguyen waits with other students to enter a classroom on the USC campus Monday, August 23, 2021 for the first day of in-person classes. USC and California State University campuses start in-person classes on Monday, serving as a test case for whether vaccine mandates, masking, regular testing and other protocols can minimize spread of the Delta variant even as thousands of students congregate in classes, dorms and social events. Photo credit: Al Seib/Los Angeles Times/TNS

Cal State University students adjust to vaccine mandate

Fatima Durrani, Staff Writer • August 26, 2021
Students at surrounding universities are getting prepared to adjust to the mask mandates and safety rules protocols.
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Cerritos College • Norwalk, Calif.
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11110 Alondra Blvd.
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