Proposal will be on the ballot for the election on March 29 and 30.
The ASG Student Senate proposed adding an optional $1 fee to narrow a funding gap due to budget shortfall. The money would be used for expenses of students who travel to speak on behalf of SAC at conferences statewide.
Santa Ana College spring 2011 student enrollment dropped 28 percent compared to last year.
A funding shortfall triggered by the slow economic recovery has prompted the college to offer fewer classes this semester. SAC offered 100 less class sections this semester due to state budget cuts.
Santa Ana struggles to stay ahead of vandals as resources are strained.
Hours of labor lost to cleanups with no end in sight. Taggers typically avoid confrontation. Their purpose is to advertise their identity and that of their gangs, although not all taggers are affiliated with gangs.
Dan Goldmann adds outrageous costumes and humor to help his students relate to biology
Before taking on his current alter-ego as one of the college's most beloved instructors, Dan Goldman has lived a life that has taken him around the world.
An overwhelming schedule of things to do piles on for students the first month of a new semester
Most people don't know the difference between normal stress and severe stress. Stress is a normal physical reaction that makes you feel vulnerable. Long-term exposure can cause serious health problems. Communication is key.
An Apple iMac computer was stolen from a department chair's office, along with 25 years of work stored on the computer.
The community college system would lose about $400 million more in new budget plan
Because of the austerity measures hatched by Gov. Jerry Brown in an attempt to bring California back from the brink of debt, community colleges may have to turn away about 350,000 students next year.
Annual Holiday Sale in the Main Gallery
Around campus: Students, faculty and alumni from the art department will sell their work at the Annual Holiday Sale in the Main Gallery from Nov. 30 through Dec. 2.
Personal struggle with MS spurred Guzman to start a non-profit to aids awareness of the disease.
It's hard to believe that at one point Steve Guzman's disease made him blind, numb on his left side, unable to taste food and maintain his balance. Now he stands straight with a broad smile on his face.
Courts OK In-State tuition for illegal immigrants
Illegal immigrants and returning students to the state of California may continue to pay the in-state tuition rate at state colleges and universities rather than the higher out-of state tuition.
Regents approve 8 percent hike
Only a few months after raising fees by more than 30 percent, California's higher education officials plan to increase tuition again because of lack of funding.
Alcoholic energy drinks remove caffeine
The Federal Drug Administration warned four beverage companies, including the makers of the stimulant-spiked Four Loko, that their products pose a danger to public health. As a result, Phusion Products are removing caffeine from its brew.
George Wright, Profile of a Distinguished Faculty Award recipient
A Secret Service agent must know the features of the presidential limousine, how to respond when an object is thrown at the head of state and how to move the him safely to another location — and all this without the protection of a bulletproof vest.
The welding technology department has received almost $300,000 in grant money
The welding program is now certified with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety and certifies welders and programmers.
George makes sure we have everything we need to succeed in the class
"Every time you get a new student that sends you an e-mail or gives you a call and says ‘Hey, thanks for helping me, Mr. Moreno. I got a real job,' it makes me feel good," Moreno said.
Around campus
Parents at Santa Ana College will get a break now that the Early Childhood Education Center opened its doors Oct. 26.
California state propositions
California voters rejected two controversial actions as the attempts to legalize and tax marijuana went up in smoke. The measure that would have suspended California's landmark clean air legislation failed. Voters, however, ended the two-thirds majority requirement to pass the state budget.
Brown wins gubernatorial race
Jerry Brown was elected governor of California, earning 54 percent of the votes. He follows the tumultuous tenure of incumbent Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and must preside over a state suffering from harsh economic times.
U.S. senate race
Sen. Barbara Boxer defeated former Hewlett Packard Co. CEO and Tea Party darling Carly Fiorina, helping her party retain, though barely, its majority in the senate.
47th Congressional District
Representative Loretta Sanchez beat back an invigorated challenge from Van Tran in the toughest 47th district race in years.
Some fast food facts: Density, lethargy, unwanted flavor.
Burgers and pizza make an easy fast-fix meal, but health dangers like weight gain lurk in the ingredients consumed in a fast food diet.
Campus deals
Save a buck with a Dons VIP text subscription. It offers discounted coffee at The Drip and reduced prices on snacks at the Don Bookstore.
Cultures came together at Santa Ana college
The aroma of spices floated in the air at Wednesday's International Festival, when students celebrated their cultures through costumes, traditional dishes and colorful displays.
Spend it or save it?
Some question fairness of vague guidelines that dictate how student aid money is being spent. Some people think that these grants should be audited.
California’s 2010 initiatives have the potential to shape the state’s political and legal future
In November, voters decide whether to legalize marijuana for those 21 and older, put an end to gerrymandering and end the two-thirds majority required to pass the budget.
Race for 47th Congressional District
Loretta Sanchez (Democratic incumbent), the moderate, Blue Dog Democrat has been in Congress since 1997, while Van Tran (Republican challenger), the self-styled Little Saigon kingmaker served for 10 years as a councilman and assemblyman.
U.S. Senate race
Incumbent Sen. Barbara Boxer cruised through the primaries with token opposition, but she faces a tougher general election against GOP candidate Carly Fiorina, a former Hewlett-Packard chairperson who plans on using her experience to create jobs for Californians.
The race for California governor
Jerry Brown pits his political experience against Meg Whitman's accomplished business resume as California seeks a new governor.
Cannon gears up for education
National GEAR UP Day, Sept. 30, encouraged middle and high school students to stay in school. The purpose of GEAR UP, Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, is to increase the number of low-income students that are about to enter high school and to help them excel.
SB 1440 guarantees transfer
A new law that realigns the transfer process now guarantees community college students a spot at a California State University.
District orders more video cameras
A wave of on-campus thefts and an armed robbery has prompted the district to expand its network of surveillance cameras to help safety officers secure the college.
Not everyone taking a shower in the men’s locker room is a typical athlete
While most encounters are non-violent, safety officers have gotten into physical altercations with drunks.
The primary traffic safety problem associated with cell phones is texting
Soon you might have to think twice before picking up calls when driving. Several states, including California, are considering a ban on cell phone use while driving, including hands-free devices.
The mission of the CSU is to educate California’s students
The CSU system will admit up to 30,000 new students for the winter and spring 2011 terms as a result of the State Senate approving a $126 million budget plan for community colleges this month.
Some fear flu vaccine despite strong evidence that it works in most cases
It's that time of the year again. At its worst, the flu virus kills thousands each year. Getting a vaccine, available at Santa Ana College's Health Center, is one of the ways to avoid getting sick.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and close contact with sick people.
Release of $9 million in reserve funds should will only tide the district over until November.
Despite record cuts in education spending, intensified by the inability of California's legislature to pass a budget, the district has saved millions, leaving its two colleges in better shape than others.
Students come together to celebrate Latino Diversity
Colorful booths drew a crowd of students to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, observed starting every September 15 throughout Central and South America to commemorate the independence of five Latin American countries.
Low quality locks are one of the reasons for the thefts
Two bikes were stolen in one day between the Drip Coffee stand and the library. About 10 bikes have been stolen this semester at SAC and the Digital Media Center.
The center helps SAC and CEC students attend classes without worrying about their children
Originally built to serve 45 children, the renovated Centennial Education Center Child Development Center unveiled Thursday will now accommodate 200 kids.
After 13 years, Raul Rodriguez takes over as new chancellor
When Raul Rodriguez stepped into his new role as chancellor this semester he took on several obstacles facing the Rancho Santiago Community College District, which operates Santa Ana College and Santiago Canyon College.
Previously, the Express was open all day.
The Don Express has adjusted store hours in order to compensate for budget cuts. The new hours are 7:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. Monday through Thursday
Institutions to provide textbook information to students during registration
The U.S. Department of Education enacted the Higher Education Opportunity Act in order to help students battle mounting textbook costs
Struggling economy hurts SAC attendance
Santa Ana College enrollment dropped by more than 1,000 students this semester. "The economy has definitely caused problems with students attending classes due to cost," said Norman Fujimoto, vice president of academic affairs.
Easy admission and quick degrees tempted many, but most learn the cost is more than its worth
A government investigation found that four for-profit colleges, including University of Phoenix, encouraged its students to make false FAFSA statements so they could get bigger loans and grants.
Central Valley community college president Raul Rodriguez chosen last month
After a months-long nationwide search for a new district chancellor, the board of trustees approved the hiring of a career education administrator from Stockton Calif.
Rhonda Wolf overcame personal Struggles to succeed
She holds the class assignment close to her face, but the words appear backward. Frustration colors her face pink as she struggles to read and pronounce the words correctly. She has the ability to give the correct answers, but she can't read the material.
Makeovers, clothes help women get ready for interviews during economic hardships.
For one day, sophomore Karla Alvarado felt like Rachel Zoe, the Hollywood "it" stylist to the stars. Her client, Flor Anorve, enters the stage to the pulsating beat of Lady Gaga's "Just Dance."
Passage of Title IX provides equal opportunities for males and females in college sports
Signed into law by President Nixon in 1972, Title IX of the Education Amendments requires all academic institutions that receive federal funding, with the exception of military and religious schools, shall not discriminate or exclude any individual from an educational activity on the basis of gender.
Resource programs provide counseling, financial aid, referral and employment assistance.
Campus: When veterans enter the VRC, they meet someone who's been in their shoes and can show them how to navigate the complicated process of developing an educational plan, applying for VA benefits and beginning their college experience.
Colleges see grim trends in transfers
The state budget cuts to higher education not only affect the cost of tuition and the number and variety of classes, it also influences how many transfer students four-year public universities accept.
Mummies, artifacts on display at the Bowers Museum
Nearly 4,000 years old, the flaxen-haired Beauty of Xiaohe lies wrapped in a finely-made woolen shroud above a boat-shaped coffin made of curved poplar flanks.
Former Phi Theta Kappa leader wears ankle bracelet for six months of home confinement
CAMPUS: Singh, 48, was convicted of two counts of second-degree burglary, two thefts with prior conviction and receiving stolen property.
STATE: The once praised master plan turns out to be a failed blueprint for Californians
Fifty years ago California became the first state in U.S. history to promise an affordable college education for its young people. Today the golden state is faltering under the weight of a near $20 billion deficit, and the hope for a reasonably priced public education is rapidly slipping through the grasp of most of California's college-age citizens.
Demonstrators nationwide claim the bill encourages racial profiling
When Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer signed the nation's toughest immigration bill — the "Support Our Law Enforcement and Safe Neighborhoods Act," approved April 23 — this gave law enforcement greater power to enforce immigration law.
Local strike settlement could foreshadow pay reductions for other California school districts
After more than 32 hours of closed-door negotiations the Capistrano Unified School District settled on a tentative agreement to end a three-day teacher's strike in Orange County's second-largest school district.
Failure to monitor spending and not balancing checkbooks can lead to fraud
Everyone feels robbed at the gas pump sometimes. For Amy Caterina, it was more than sticker shock. Her purchase nearly cost her entire checking account balance.
Election proves to be a success with music, food, candidate interaction and voter participation.
After two days of voting, and five hours of tallying votes after polls closed, Nadia Lopez was elected new Associated Student Government president.
CAMPUS: Participants must now complete a list of prerequisites before being added to waitlist.
A requirement for potential nursing majors to meet new standards is causing some students to look elsewhere.
Brought here at a young age, AB 540 students face hurdles in higher education.
Eight years after California's Legislature adopted a tuition break to help undocumented immigrants afford college, these students account for 1 percent or less of all students at the state's three higher education systems.
State: As budget cuts crumble, higher education students unite in a statewide rally.
In a show of solidarity, students from Santa Ana and Santiago Canyon colleges joined protestors statewide Monday decrying California Legislatures' slashing of higher education budgets and skyrocketing tuition costs.
IN DEPTH PART 2: For some, cyberspace is a hideout from real-world problems
At 24 years old, Casey has more friends online than he does in real life. He surfs the web until four or five in the morning. He's never met any of his best friends in person.
$150 ticket price goes toward fund to save classes
"I'm trying to backfill money that we're not getting because our budget's been cut. The Republicans don't want to raise taxes, and the Democrats don't want to relax regulations to cut costs. We have to start thinking differently. We have to stop the politics and do what's best for students," Hanna said.
Universities shrink time spent attaining four-year degree
A new initiative is expected to increase graduation rates at the California State University system within the next six years. The initiative announced by the Board of Trustees is also meant to raise the graduation rate across all 23 CSU campuses by 8 percent by 2016.
IN DEPTH PART 1: Recovery is a daily struggle for those trying to kick alcohol addiction.
Pat doesn't know what normal is, so he drinks to try to feel that way. He struggles with sobriety every day. This is his third try and he hopes it will work this time. His relationship with alcohol began when the drinking age was still 18 — the same age at which he had his first blackout.
Parking. It’s a problem. For everyone.
Long waits, fewer stalls and increased fees lead to frustration missed classes, tardies.
SAC losing more students than community colleges statewide
To make it even more difficult for students to go to a four-year university and graduate on time, universities no longer accept mid-year transfer students.
College expenses taken into consideration for tax returns
Grants, scholarships and student loans aren't always enough to fuel a college education but there may be an easier way to attain financial assistance: filing your taxes.
Shop caters to diverse believers in downtown
Tucked away in the hipster-infested streets of Santa Ana's Artists Village, Yerba Mex Botanicals is a shop for the health-obsessed and superstitious alike. Shelves are lined with candles meant to bring good fortune or stave away bad vibes.
COUNTY: Transit Authority Budget cuts mean fewer routes, slower commutes for riders
Changes include increasing the time between buses, eliminating certain trips and routes, ending the bus schedule early or starting later and creating more short turn trips where buses do not cover the entire length of the route.
Warning lifted after task force groups address issues
Accreditation is necessary for colleges to grant degrees and receive federal funding. It is also needed for students to receive credit for classes when transferring to a four year college or university.
Campaign employees continue to mislead students into signing petitions around school
Campus officials and student leaders are working on new ways to deal with aggressive petitioners who make their way on campus and attempt to register students to vote without consent.
Pilot program benefits students
Textbook costs keep rising but now students can save money by renting books, an emerging trend in college stores across the nation. Competing companies also offer text book rental services via the Internet.
Witnesses say man registered students under wrong political party by offering free sunglasses
A solicitor for the Republican Party was pressured into leaving campus by student protesters after they began to yell warnings at students, saying that he was illegally registering them to vote.
STATE: Budget woes lead to rise in fees, furloughs and fewer classes
For the first time since its inception, the Board of Regents voted last month to raise tuition another 32 percent, placing the original 1960 Master Plan for Higher Education in jeopardy.
A 12-year-old with pulmonary hypertension spends her days helping others
Loralee is not a staff member at the facility nor an official volunteer. She simply spends her days at the center before leaving to get home schooled. She's been a TFYC regular for about five years and is considered a member of the family.
is a member of the 
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