Vol. 69, Issue 5 April 23 by El Camino College The Union

ARTS

SPORTS

‘Night of Resident Artists’ performs for audience, P. 5

Men’s volleyball head to state semis, P. 8

EL CAMINO COLLEGE APRIL 23, 2015

SPORTS

Pole-vaulter continues family legacy P. 8

THE UNION eccunion.com

TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA

Stabbing victim was promising musical talent

An El Camino student was killed at his South L.A. home on the night of April 6 Phil Sidavong

News Editor @ECCUnionPhil

John Fordiani/ Union An El Camino student was attacked in a home across the street from campus on April 10. Neighbors on Atkinson Avenue have rallied together and responded to the incident by keeping an eye out for the alleged attacker.

Student raped near campus Jessica Martinez

Editor-in-Chief @ECCUnionJessica

An El Camino faculty member sent an email to faculty, staff, managers and supervisors that said the victim of the alleged rape that occurred blocks from EC Friday was an international student at the college, on April 13. As reported first on ECCUnion. com: Pete Doucette, who teaches chemistry, said he lives in the area near Crenshaw Boulevard, north of Manhattan Beach Boulevard. Doucette said his neighbors, said the international student was followed home in broad daylight by the suspect, who kicked the door

in. Doucette said his neighbors said the student soon emerged from the house, fell on the sidewalk and was “devastated.” Doucette said his neighbors told him the student, described as Chinese or Japanese, yelled, “He’s in the house. He’s in the house.” Gardena police officers were going door-to-door in the neighborhood yesterday “wanting to know if we had seen anything or had any video cameras,” Doucette said. Many international students from El Camino live in that area, Doucette said. The incident happened on the corner of 156th Street and Atkinson Avenue, according to a Campus Advisory sent out by ECPD.

Mike Tumnt, who lives on the block of the alleged incident said he was the victim’s landlord and confirmed that she was a student at EC. However, Gardena Police Lieutenant Steve Prendergast said today he can’t confirm the victim was an El Camino student. “I can’t confirm anything,” Prendergast said. “I don’t know much about the victim.” Community Relations Director Ann Garten said she had no information on the incident. “We don’t confirm or deny rumors,” Garten said. Chief Trevis did not respond to multiple messages the week following the incident. ECPD Officer

Jan Caldwell said, “I can’t talk to you until (Garten) says OK.” “I’m sure it’s an ongoing investigation,” Doucette said, “but they should say something. That’s a pretty damn big thing to happen to one of our students.” He added that the Campus Advisory sent on April 10 said there was a search happening in Gardena. “It happened within probably 200 feet of campus,” he said. The man, Prendergast said, is described as black, 20 to 25 years old and is about 190 pounds with a muscular build. He was wearing a black hoodie. Rocky Rivera and John Fordiani contributed to this story.

Community reactions International reactions EC response in question Tips for preventCommunity members spoke out ing sexual abuse Four days after a woman was International students were givattacked in her home across the en the chance to speak up about the about the handling of Friday’s rape in Gardena, where the victim was and assault: street from campus, neighbors ral- incident. lied together and responded to the Jovielle Marantan, 20, com- an El Camino student. rape. Some residents said they saw the attacker in the area before. El Camino Police Chief Trevis confirmed in an email on April 14 that the victim is an El Camino student. Nick Garcia, resident of the area, said he’s seen the man riding his purple and orange-rimmed bicycle, before on his street. “I’ve seen that guy a few times digging through the trash in the alley,” he said. Residents said they look out for each other and call the police from time to time about suspicious activity in the area. “All the neighbors were like, ‘We’ve seen him before,’ Elena Young, a 16-year resident said. “Because of all the students, we see so many different people its kind of hard to be like, ‘You’re not from here.’”

puter science major, talked about the difficulties internationals face when they first get to California. “International students, especially females, have to be emotionally strong,” Marantan said. “Then something like this happens to them; it’s going to break their confidence. It’s like destroying their human nature.” Ana Chkihivadze, 22, fashion design major, said she was warned about the crime rate. “They used to tell me ‘don’t move there, it’s really ghetto,’” Chkihivadze said. Rachman highlighted the key contrast between an average student and an international student. “(International students are) victims of crime like everyone else and even more,” Rachman said. “If you’re a victim of a crime you run to your parents. They cannot, they have no one around.”

A neighbor of the victim said the crime happened Friday morning. The Nixle alert about the incident wasn’t sent until just before 3 p.m. that same day. One EC student said it’s not the first time there’s been a delay in letting people know about crimes in the area. “The school (doesn’t let us know things),” Gabriella Reyes, 29, music major, said. “It’s kind of sad. There was one student who wanted to do a mass murder. I think there was a teacher who said something, but no one listened to her. They called police and they didn’t let students know until a month later. During that period, anything could have happened.” Reyes was referring to an alleged threatened mass killing made on campus last semester. Students weren’t alerted about the threat until several weeks later.

NEWS LINE

Stories by: Jessica Martinez, Celine West, Rocky Rivera and John Fordiani

young man’s journey to becoming an aspiring musician and a lover of music began early. Tommy Cheatham Jr., 18, music major, had many inspirations in his life, beginning with his fourth grade class and years later, he ended up taking music classes at El Camino College. Never having formal training did not hurt his musical prowess. His talent even intrigued professors from the college. “He was phenomenal,” Suzanne Wong, adjunct instructor in music, said. “He learned how to play Chopin’s Fantasy Impromptu, by ear, which is difficult because you play with different rhythms on each hand.” Cheatham Jr. “listened” to the track and learned how to play it by ear and showed Wong. She asked him to slow down the music and figure out the difference between the “3 against 4 technique,” because he didn’t realize how amazing of a thing he was doing. “The next class,” Wong said. “He perfected it. I was amazed. That (Monday) was the last time I saw him in class.” That dream and great musical talent was ended, on the night of April 6 when Cheatham Jr. was fatally stabbed in the backyard of his South L.A. home. Cheatham Jr.’s love for music began when he first played the recorder as part of his class in the

fourth grade. The love for music came out after that. “He heard about all kinds of stuff and really loved music,” his father, Tommy Cheatham Sr., said. Cheatham Jr. was into a lot of music, chamber music primarily, but after high school he really found a love for the Beatles, his father said. “He loved them so much,” Cheatham Sr. said. “We’re going to put a Beatles plaque up for him.” Wong remembers that Cheatham Jr. would always play the piano during the warm-ups in her class and impress the rest of the class, because it was a “beginner’s piano class.” “He really wanted to be a music major,” Wong said. “But he never had the training and couldn’t read music, so he was learning how.” Cheatham Jr. had two classes with Wong, Beginning Piano and Music Fundamentals. “He did very well,” Wong said. “He had an A in both classes.” His musical talents impressed all who came into contact with him. Matthew Cruz, 21, audio production major, who met Cheatham Jr. this semester, had no problems honoring him. “When I first met him, he was chill,” Cruz said. “We had a project together for our class. He always pulled his weight. Never did too much or too little.” Cruz talked about Cheatham Jr.’s love for piano and his ability. “There was a piano in the front of the class we had,” Cruz said.

See CHEATHAM, Page 2

• Trust your instincts • NO means NO • Use the BUDDY system • Be AWARE of your surroundings • Be an ACTIVE bystander

Tips courtesy of Candis SimmonsDavis, Outreach Specialist at the YWCA, Young Women Commited to Action.

Sociology Club discusses rape culture

Open house showcases various talent

Coaches take on students

The Sociology Club invites all El Camino students to attend their “End Rape Culture” open discussion today at the Art and Behavioural Sciences Building in room 317. For more information contact the

The Fine Arts Division will be hosting its open house tomorrow from 5-8 p.m. in various spots around the campus. These areas will showcase various pieces and genres of work: such as dance, singing and artwork. For more information on the event, call (310) 660-3715.

The Center for the Arts will be presenting a performance of the speech and debate coaches versus the students on April 30 at 2 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. Tickets for the event are $15 and they can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at the ticket office. For more information, call (310) 329-5345.

John Fordiani/ Union Christine Marie Chavez sets down pictures of her son Tommy Cheatham Jr. in the backyard of their South L.A. home. Cheatham was killed in the backyard of his home by an unknown attacker on April 6.

Speakers talk about mental health awareness A two-day mental health awareness fair will be presented by the Special Resource Center, Student Development, Staff and Student Diversity on May 6 and 7 at 10 a.m. on the library lawn. There will be various speakers and vendors for the event and it is free. For more information on the fair, call (310) 660-3593 ext. 3660.

G eccunion@gmail.com /ElCaminoUnion /ECCUnion /ECCUnion /ECCUnion

NEWS

2 EL CAMINO COLLEGE UNION

APRIL 23, 2015 CHEATHAM continued from page 2

“In the beginning (at EC) I didn’t see him,” Barrera said. “I saw him at a school play and talked to him “He always played it in the be- after. That was the last time I saw ginning and he was an amazing him.” Everyone that spoke about musician.” Cheatham Jr., including his father, “We never got the chance to jam aunt, cousin and professor, all had out together,” Cruz added. “I pray similar thoughts about him. that his family finds peace. “ “He was quiet, soft-spoken and An EC student that went to high had a passion for music,” they said. school with Cheatham Jr. said he Wong rememhad a differbers that although ent attitude he was soft-spoken once you got there were times he the chance to “We never got the was different. If he know him. chance to jam out had an interest or “Quickwitquestion in class, he ted,” Nohemy together. I pray would speak up. Barrera, stu- that his family finds “Debater,” Jandent, said. “He ice Cheatham, aunt, peace.” was funny and said. “That’s what — Matthew Cruz, 21, really sarcashe was, he loved to tic.” audio production major debate.” She thought Freddie Cheathhe was nice am, cousin, talked and “couldn’t about the way he saw others. believe” that it happened. “He didn’t bother anybody, he Barrera went to high school with didn’t see any bad in people either,“ Cheatham Jr. from 9th grade until Freddie said. 11th grade after he left.

POLICE BEAT By Sydnie Mills

Lunchtime happy hour leads to arrest April 6, 5:15 p.m. — An officer responded to the Student Services Center regarding a female student who was unconscious, but still breathing. According to the report, after the officer located the student inside the women’s restroom she was emitting a strong odor of alcohol, she then got up and vomited into one of the toilets. The student then said that she was OK but she drank a lot of beer at a local Wing Stop restaurant. Officers were unable to reach her parents, she was placed under arrest for public intoxication and transported her to Torrance PD jail for detoxification.

Privacy at the urinal isn’t private enough for one’s ‘private time’ April 7, 4:43 p.m. — An officer responded to the lobby regarding an indecent exposure report. According to the report, a male student told an officer that he was using a urinal inside the men’s restroom on the second floor of the Administration Building when he observed a male masturbating in front of a urinal. He then left the restroom and reported the incident to campus police.

When in doubt, just tip the vending machine April 12, 8:24 p.m. — An officer responded to the P.E. North Building regrading a vandalism report. According to the report, someone had tipped over one of the vending machines and took some of the products. The officer lifted the vending machine back up and closed the security gate to prevent further theft. The vending machine company was contacted and they arrived to repair the machine.

Girl, that’s my car April 15, 3:44 p.m. — Officers responded to a suspicious circumstances call near the tennis courts where a female student reported seeing another female getting out of her car which was parked in Lot F. According to the report, when officers located the female she was in possession of the student’s car keys and was seen sitting in the driver’s seat. At first the subject said the car was hers and then later admitted that it wasn’t. In addition, the vehicle was moved from where the student originally parked it. The subject, who was also a student, was arrested for auto theft and was transported to Torrance PD.

Hit-and-runs are all the rage these days, no notes needed April 16, 12:40 p.m. — An officer responded to the police lobby regarding a hit-and-run report. According to the report, a female student said she parked her car in the lower Lot F earlier that morning and when she returned around noon she noticed her vehicle had been hit. She also said that her vehicle had been pushed about eight inches in the direction it was hit. In the report, it was mentioned that there are no surveillance cameras in lower Lot F.

Corrections In the April 2 issue of The Union, it was reported that Christian Vergara’s major was psychology, but it is actually administration justice. In the April 2 issue, The Union put “# of hit-and-run since 2014” but it should have been “Number of hit-and-runs since 2014 on each campus. The Union regrets these errors.

Anyone with wishes to help the Cheatham family with services is encouraged to donate:

Visit the Greater Good News Church of God and Christ John Fordiani/ Union Tommy Cheatham Sr. and Christine Marie Chavez hold pictures of their son Tommy Cheatham Jr. in the backyard of their South L.A. home. Tommy Cheatham Jr., an El Camino student, was killed in the backyard of his home on the evening of April 6 by an unknown attacker.

5840 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90003. Make the checks for Tommy Cheatham.

‘The Union’ brings home awards from state journalism convention Phil Sidavong

News Editor @ECCUnionPhil

Editors and staff writers of El Camino’s newspaper program won seven honors at the state convention for the on-site awards ceremony on April 11. “The Union’s” staff and advisers attended the Journalism Association of Community Colleges (JACC) from April 9 to April 12. “The Union’s” lone photographer in the feature photo competition, Amira Petrus, came up big on the night; as they announced her name for the first place finish, the slideshow skipped to her photo, which was met in awe by the audience as they applauded. “Honestly I was shocked,” she said. “I wasn’t really expecting them to call me. I didn’t go in with high hopes.” Editor-in-chief Jessica Martinez took home the first place plaque for the copy editing competition and was awarded the JACC scholarship. “I wasn’t expecting to win copy editing at all,” she said. “After they said honorable mentions, I pretty much thought I had no chance.” Martinez was happy for the staff and their perfomance this year at JACC. “I was really proud because we have some new people here and a few of them did very well,” she said. “Everyone else was just excited for them.” “In my first year, I didn’t win anything,” she added.

John Fordiani/ Union “The Union” staff members pose with awards at the 60th annual Journalism Association of Community Colleges state convention in Sacramento, Calif. on April 11. Thirteen staff members of ”The Union” attended the convention.

Students expected to prosper after revival of historic academic program Instability within the Puente Project forced a hiatus last fall; professor in charge is happy about its return Eric Ramos

Staff Writer @ECCUnionEric

During a board of trustees meeting in November, President Thomas Fallo announced that the Puente Project will be back next fall. With the efforts of the campus and Dr. Rachel Lewis Ketai, cocoordinator of the program, the program has been back since the beginning of the spring. “President Fallo received a letter from Dr. Francisco Arce, our Vice President of Academic Affairs,”

Ketai said. “They basically recom mended that Puente come out of hiatus in the Spring of 2015.” “It has been on campus for 30 years,” Ketai said. “But there has been some instability in terms of our ability to have a full time

“It’s really easy to get lost in the crowd. Being in Puente, I really found a community of students who really want to advance.”

— Kevin Pizzaro, 18, sociology

team in place and for the program to receive all the support it deserves.” Puente, founded in 1981, provides services to students to help them transfer to fouryear colleges and universities. The program is open to all students. The only requirements is they have to be registered for Eng-

lish A in the fall and have a desire to transfer. Counselor Griselda Castro said she’ll serve for three years. “The other counselor will step in and continue to recruit, and of course I’ll help out,” Castro said. “That’s the way to help out with the burnout issue because there’s quite a bit of planning. We get reenergized, step down, re-group then come back.” Ketai believes that the future is going to be bright for the program. “We support the students until they transfer,” Ketai said. “The

goal is that they come back to the community as a leader and a mentor.” Kevin Pizzaro, 18, sociology, recently became club president of the program, said he’s happy he participated in the program. In Puente, everyone motivates each other. “Being in a community college, it’s really easy to get lost in the crowd,” Pizzaro said. “Being in Puente, I really found a community of students who really want to advance their education and that really motivated me to continue my education.”.

Debate team continues to impress after raking in several awards at state competition Jerome Casio

Staff Writer @ECCUnionJerome

Every year, debate teams from around the country gather and compete in Phi Rho Pi Nationals, a tournament where teams battle head-to-head, with words, in a series of speech and debate events. El Camino’s debate team often finds much success in such competitions, including Phi Rho Pi. Last year the forensics team took home the honor of being the National Champions in Debate.

This year was no exception, as the team took home over 15 awards from the national event hosted in Cleveland. Arielle Stephenson, 18, business economics major, placed first in three of her events and third in recieving the highest amount of gold medals. Stephenson said she prepared for Phi Rho Pi by researching topics that might be discussed, by finding pieces of evidence to use, and by practicing her individual speech events in front of coaches to fix minor things before nationals.

“My philosophy is (that) there is no such thing as too much research,” Stephenson said. Stephenson, who is transferring to a four-year university next semester, said she prepared for Phi Rho Pi for two years and is “extremely grateful” for the debate program. “I was extremely relieved,” she said. “I felt as if all my work (has) finally paid off. And, since I’m transferring, it was nice to win my last rounds as a Community College debater and to represent the (EC) debate team.”

A list of the winners: • Brittany Hubble — first in Parliamentary Debate • Kelly Hutchison — second in Parliamentary Debate • Rayanna Marable — second in Impromptu Speaking and Parliamentary Debate • Mason Jones — second in Parliamentary Debate • Shea Adair — second in Parliamentary Debate • Orion Gould — the top speaker for Parliamentary Debate, second place in Parliamentary Debate and third in Extemporaneous Speaking and Lincoln Douglas Debate, and the winner of the Fish Nelson Award for Lincoln Douglas

FEATURES

APRIL 23, 2015

EL CAMINO COLLEGE UNION 3

Professor takes students around the world without leaving campus Eric Ramos

Staff Writer @ECCUnion_Eric

Ebiner ran the Boston Marathon in 2013. He won the 50+ age group in 2 hours, 32 minutes. It was fastest time by an American runner over 50 since 2009.

Ebiner has traveled to the Amazon Rainforest in Peru and has held a sloth (pictured), a snake, and a monkey there.

Ebiner has climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa.

All above photos are courtesy of Matt Ebiner.

Learning about countries and cultures around the world is an adventurous experience in Matt Ebiner’s World Regional Geography class. The maps and globes that decorate his classroom are only a glimpse into the wildlife of Tanzania and the nature of Iceland. Ebiner, 54, has traveled to more than 100 countries and has visited various historical monuments. He incorporates his photos in his PowerPoint presentations in his classes and shares many of his experiences. In addition, he teaches students about the major countries and regions of the world, including the environment, people, cities, resources, history and economics. “A lot of people have never been exposed or haven’t heard of certain countries and don’t realize how interesting or magnificent they are,” Ebiner said. “I enjoy sharing my love for the different cultures and environments of the world.” Jake Molchan, 19, history major, said Armando Zelaya/ Union Ebiner’s class is one worth taking at El Matt Ebiner, a geography professor at El Camino, holds one of the many globes in his classroom. He is also the founder of GeoTours, a Camino. travel company made to take both students and non-students on trips abroad during school breaks, according to his website. Ebiner teaches “It’s a very informative class and it’s World Regional Geography courses every semester. easy to come to,” Molchan said. “You can tell he cares about what he is teaching.” second fastest marathoner in the world there. Born and raised in Southern according to the GeoTours website. “People are usually surprised by “I decided to start these trips that were above the age of 50, Ebiner said. California, Ebiner attended Bishop Amat “I started running in high school and everything that’s out there once they High School and earned a B.A and M.A separate to the college but similar to in geography from UCLA. He began study abroad,” Ebiner said. “They don’t I’ve kept at it most of the time since then learn about it,” Ebiner said. “People teaching part-time at El Camino in 1986 have the classes but I still try to have a lot but it’s been up and down because of might not travel to these places, but I of variety of places and experiences that various injuries,” Ebiner said. “I kind of think it’s enriching to learn about other and became full-time in 1991. got remotivated when I turned 50 a few places.” Furthermore, Ebiner led study are educational.” Giova Molina, 19, history major, said years back because that put me in a new abroad programs for 10 years until it Editor’s note: This semester, Matt was postponed in 2010. That’s when he he would like to take a GeoTours trip in age group.” Ebiner won the Boston marathon for Ebiner’s teaching five sections of started GeoTours. The trips he leads to the future. “He showed us some beautiful places 50+ age division in 2013, the year of the geography courses: Cultural Geography, different countries are designed and led World Regional Geography and Physical by Ebiner and focus on nature, culture, and islands I want to travel to,” Molina bombing. “I had finished well before the Geography Lab, according to the course adventure, and off-the-beaten track said. “There’s a lot about the world I bombing,” Ebiner said. “I was in a schedule. Next semester, he’s teaching attractions, according to the GeoTours didn’t know.” Physical Geography, World Regional Besides traveling, Ebiner is a world- restaurant eating when I heard about it.” website. Ebiner said it’s important to broaden Geography and Physical Geography Upcoming GeoTours trips this year class distant runner who has competed in are to Central Asia, Iceland, Ireland, Peru marathons all over the world. In 2013, he people’s perspective and show them that Lab, according to the fall 2015 course schedule. there are so many beautiful places out ran 13 marathons and finished as the and Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands,

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FEATURES

APRIL 23, 2015

EL CAMINO COLLEGE 4

John Fordiani/Union

El Camino’s Concert Choir practices under Joanna Nachef’s instruction for their upcoming performance on May 3 in Marsee Auditorium.

El Camino’s Concert Choir open to all students Jay Bamba

Opinion/Editorial Editor @ECCUnionJay

s his choir classmate accompanies with a piano tone, Kyle Katano, 19, music major, harmonizes and sings in the practice room. This is just another regular Tuesday afternoon for Katano. Although Katano’s focus in music is not vocal performance, he is required to take Concert Choir, a non-auditioned choral class. Harmonizing in high-pitched tones is not exclusively for music majors. The introductory music class, Concert Choir, is designed for students with little to no formal singing experience. Concert Choir is a non-auditioned class that has no pre-requisites. Concert Choir emphasizes the improvement of students’ performances, rather than their actual singing skills. The entire semester is dedicated to practice for the end of the semester show, which traditionally takes place at Marsee Auditorium. The concert choir meets twice a week in Room 134 in the Music Building. However, the class also functions as a team of individuals who love music. Concert Choir is designed for “students who enjoy singing in the car and the shower can come in and sing,” Joanna Nachef, instructor of Concert Choir and director of the choral department, said. There are all levels of students, from beginners to advanced. Anyone of any age can join as long as they can stay in tune, she said. The non-audition stance not only allows getting a diverse collection of people, but also lets the students feel secure. It is so that students do not “feel threatened by auditions, because it can be difficult to people for stand up in front of others and sing solo,” Nachef said. The class’ focus on vocal performance contributes n strengthening all kinds of music majors, including students who mainly play string instruments. Katano is one of the students. “It’s definitely a good class to take if you’re a music major,” Ka-

tano said. Katano credits the class as an entry point to “be able to sight read,” as it is a skill set that aids every musician. “It’s a fun class and bonding with other members are great,” Katano said. “Practicing with them and performing with them at the end of the semester makes us better musicians.” Katano spends time in the practice room almost every other day of the week when he has classes. “I’m also in the applied music program so I have to practice six hours a week in the practice room,” Katano said. Using these hours, Katano practices guitar, which is his focus in the applied program, and ofcourse, singing. “It’s tough to put in all these hours but I like to believe that it will all be worth it in the end,” he said. “Sometimes not enough time are spent in class to learn and memorize everything,” Katano said, the bass section, which Katano belongs to, occasionally gathers up and practices as a group before or after class. Concert choir also functions as an eye opener for students. There have been cases where numbers of undecided students “choose the path of music after concert choir,” Nachef said. “Perhaps it could be your vocation in life,” she added. Arif Shakir, 20, music major, is a case example of this. “Taking this class is like a journey for all of us, whether you are already adept in music or not,” Shakir said. “She helped me ignite an interest in a field different than my own that I had no idea that I possessed.” Students who have interest in music and vocal performances are encouraged to join Concert Choir. “The majority are not independent choral singers, I teach them what the rhythms are and work on blending and balancing, to really understand what it means to create entertaining musical experiences for audiences,” Nachef said.

John Fordiani/Union

Kyle Katano, 19, music major, plays his guitar in a Music Building practice room.

Concert Choir will represent El Camino at Carnegie Hall in New York City The Concert Choir will take part in two performances this semester; one on May 3 in Marsee Auditorium. It will also feature Chorale, the advanced choir group of El Camino. The second performance will take place at New York’s Carnegie Hall, which features dozens of other choir groups of community colleges performing. The trip to New York has taken place after the end of the spring semester for the last

several years. The members who are performing will mostly consist of Chorale, and “only a handful from Concert Choir,” Nachef said. Due to the trip being a “costly endeavor,” it is difficult for many of the Concert Choir members to go to New York. However, the team is cooperating to send its president to New York by conducting a fundraiser. The members are selling a variety of items, such as handcrafted goods, See’s Candies, and others.

CHOIR INFO

Kyle Katano, 19, music major, practices guitar and sings in the practice room in the Music Building.

Class Information

Upcoming Performance

Other choir classes at El Camino

El Camino’s Concert Choir is a non-auditioned class that anyone can join. Emphasis is placed on development of the choral voice skills and musicianship. Classes will meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:40, every Tuesday and Thursday, in MUS 134.

El Camino’s concert choir will be performing at Sunday, May 3, at the Marcee Auditorium. They will be performing alongside with the advanced choir Chorale, and a gorup of instrumentalists. Tickets will be sold for $10 and is available online. Discounts for ASB stickers are also available. The show will start at 8 p.m.

El Camino’s Choral Ensemble consists of four choir classes: Chorale, Community Choir, Concert Choir, and Women’s Chorus. Concert Choir and Community Choir is non-auditioned. Chorale and Women’s Chorus requires audition for membership and will be held at the first class meeting. Non-credit participation for Community Choir is also available.

John Fordiani/Union

For more Information Dr. Joanna Nachef is the Director of Choral Activities at El Camino. For more information regarding Concert Choir or the Choral Ensembles, contact 310-660-3593, ext. 3713 or jnachef@ elcamino.edu.

ARTS

APRIL 23, 2015

EL CAMINO COLLEGE UNION 5

On The Scene ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ by El Camino Theatre Department

El Camino’s Sadie Black showcased her number called “Edge at the Night of Resident Artists” at the Marsee Auditorium on Saturday night.

Jorge Villa/ Union

‘Night of Resident Artists’ feature faculty work Ryan Decker

Staff Writer @ECCUnionDecker

The performers sprinted into the center of the stage, their arms cradling what appeared to be dozens of shoes apiece. Each participant scattered the shoes in every direction until the floor was littered with boots, sneakers, and high heels. The group then broke out into a game of “Simon Says.” “Night of Resident Artists” featured performances choreographed and danced by EC professors Michelle Funderburk, Hiroshi Hamanishi, Jamie Carbetta Hammond and Jennifer La Curan on Saturday at Marsee Auditorium. The master of ceremonies was EC professor Daniel Berney. Hamanishi’s pieces included dances to music ranging from Foo Fighters’ rock anthem “Everlong” to the ‘30s hits “Tuxedo Junction” and “Fine and Dandy.” Hamanishi and dancer AJ Moore performed a synchronized tap tribute to the late tap dancer Bob Carroll, who passed away last year. La Curan also showcased her versatility by performing her eerie dance “Shadows From Within” as well as her more whimsical pieces “Thoroughfare” and “Le Train Bleu.” The creation of the piece “was probably about a year and a half process in the studio before it actually was ever performed,” La Curan said regarding the process of creating “Shadows from Within.”

Two of the most powerful performances were choreographed by Funderburk. The dance to a musical rendition of Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise,” which Funderburk titled “Rise,” alternated grace with strength in the movements of dancers. Funderburk also choreographed a four-part piece titled “Grounded.” The juxtaposition of African tribal music, orchestral instruments, rock music and synthetic sounds along with the subtle changing of the background added complexity to the storyline. The most elaborate performance of the night was the final act, “Edge,” presented by Hammond. The power ballet told the story of a woman struggling with indecision on who to love as well as the struggle between multiple men to be the one for her. The variety in the pieces presented at the “Night of Resident Artists” helped everyone work toward their goal of entertaining and enriching “I really don’t go to these types of concerts but it was really amazing to see them perform,” Ingrid Camales, 20, biology major, said, “There were a few pieces that almost made me cry.” Jorge Villa/ Union While some students enjoyed the concert, others left confused El Camino’s dance performers showcased about the meanings of the works. their number called “Rise at the Night of “For me, I just cannot understand some (of the) dance pieces,” Resident Artists” that included a variety of Snow Park, 23, psychology major, admitted. dance acts at the Marsee auditorium on Saturday night.

Take your education beyond the classroom.

EC remembers talented music professor Aryn Hicks

Your university education shouldn’t be confined by classroom walls. At CSUDH, you’ll have the opportunity to learn in the lab, in the field and alongside outstanding faculty who see your potential. And who mentor your success. What will you find @CSUDH? CSUDH.EDU/FutureStudents

Learn about the El Camino College and CSUDH Pathways to Success Enrollment Partnership and view upcoming visit dates at CSUDH.EDU/CCPartnershipsVisits.

HandsOnLearning@CSUDH

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CSU Dominguez Hills | (310) 243-3422 | 1000 E. Victoria Street | Carson, CA 90747

Piano Performance by Polli Chambers-Salzaar and Christopher Brennen

Pianists, Polli ChambersSalazar and Christopher Brennan will be performing in a duet concert on Saturday at 8 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. Some of the pieces featured in their performance include “Dolly Suite,” Op. 56 by Fauré, “Blue Horizon” by Brennan and Piazzolla’s “Tangos for Two Pianos.” Tickets are $15 and may be purchased online, by phone, or at the ticket office. For more information call 1-800-THE-ARTS.

The Concert Band at El Camino, Directed by Dane Teter The Concert Band at El Camino, led by Director Dane Teter, will be performing on Sunday at 3 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. Tickets for the event are $10 and can be purchased online, by phone, or at the ticket office. For more information call 1-800-THE-ARTS.

Staff Writer @ECCUnionAryn

El Camino College students and faculty share their memories of dedicated music professor, Chris Mello, who died from cancer June, 19, 2014. As the director of the guitar program and the jazz studies program, Mello contributed his talents as a musician and scholar to the campus. His passion for teaching and his dedication to his students and his craft inspired many of his students to pursue music. “He was the one who actually motivated me to be a music major. He was really pushing me hard every night in rehearsal and making me work as hard as I could. It just made me realize this was something I wanted to do and I enjoyed working hard for this,” Tyler Johnson,21, music major, said. Described as passionate and dedicated, Mello demanded excellence from his students. “Guitar was his religion. It was his instrument so his standards were much higher. He was always pushing his students to really excel,” Professor William Doyle said. “He wanted you to push so that when you were out in the real world you would be able to handle what was out there,” Jon Menei, music professor said. “He never really settled, from every student that came to him he expected that they were capable of a professional level of effort.” Some of Mello’s accomplishments at El Camino included the implication of the Student Learning Outcomes (SLO), the redirection of the Jazz Band and the applied program, and his annual guitar festival that is now in his name. In order to celebrate his life and love of music, the recent Dr. Chris

The El Camino Theatre Department is putting on a performance of the classic musical “Bye Bye Birdie” on tomorrow at 8 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. The play tells the story of Conrad Birdie, a popular singer who arrives in Sweet Apple, Ohio, where he is to give one of his fans a kiss before he joins the army. The tickets are $25 for adults and $18 for children 12 and under. For more information call 1-800-THE-ARTS.

Courtesy of the Fine Arts Department

Mello Jazz Festival was performed in remembrance of Mello. The event featured a professional jazz ensemble that included worldclass musicians who performed on Chris’s last album, “Global Village.” The festival brought students from other schools together to come together to preform and participate in workshops and meet people. “For being here for a short amount of time he already got a jazz festival named after him,” Doyle said. “You can’t talk about the student learning outcomes without mentioning (Chris) or that we were taken off probation without talking about Chris Mello,” Mello leaves behind legacy, hard work, tough love, and most importantly, music. “I think one of the things that Chris had was just an unbelievable desire to not only excel on his instrument but to inspire other people to excel in music,” Doyle said. The El Camino College photography department’s annual exhibit, “Truth and Beauty,” on display until April 30, is on display in memory and honor of Mello.

The Concert Choir/Mixed Chorus, Directed by Joanna Nachef The Concert Choir/Mixed Chorus, led by Director Joanna Nachef with pianist, Kenner Bailey, will perform on May 3 at 8 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. Tickets for the event are $10 and can be purchased online, by phone, or at the ticket office. For more information call 1-800-THE-ARTS.

The Jazz Two Big Band The Jazz Two Big Band, led by Director David Sills, will be performing on May 4 at 8 p.m. in the Robert Haag Recital Hall. Tickets for the event are $10 and can be purchased online, by phone, or at the ticket office. For more information call 1-800-THE-ARTS.

EDITORIAL

6 EL CAMINO COLLEGE UNION

APRIL 23, 2015

Campus Insight

Kelly Janke Communication studies lecturer

A social change from EC

Illustration by Eugene Chang/ Union

EC conceals vital information to community Alert system not in help when alerts are sent out days after

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The “Don’t ask, don’t tell” seems to be El Camino’s college was aware enough of that to hold a sexual asway of thinking for the past year or two. sault awareness workshop earlier this week, almost The most recent example of this played out earcoincidentally days after one of our own students lier this week, after the police chief confirmed the was allegedly raped blocks away. victim of an alleged rape, which reportedly took The issue: A Nixle alert went out about the search for a rape place a few hundred feet away from campus, was a suspect in Gardena last Friday, where the search student at the college. But for three days in a row, El Camino not issuing involved bloodhounds scouring an EC parking lot, the college’s PIO didn’t answer our requests for a alerts within appropriate but it went out hours later. Some students received a comment. Campus Advisory via an email hours after that. Other big crimes that have happened on campus timeframe At the same campus forum mentioned earlier, in the last year and a half include a star athlete getschool officials encouraged people to sign up for ting arrested for having marijuana and loaded guns Our stand: Nixle. One faculty member spoke up and said even in his car, an alleged threatened mass killing and a Have a better way to get if 40,000 people in the community sign up for the shooting on campus. No notification was ever sent people informed, or come alert system, it doesn’t help if alerts are being sent out by the college about the first incident, an email was sent out a month after the fact for the second up with another way for our out much after the incident, especially when we’re getting news elsewhere. incident and notification for the shooting went out safety Have a point person from the Community Relahours after it happened. tions Office or police department whose sole job One vice president said at a campus forum earis to send alerts. Have a better way of getting the lier this semester that the delay in notification afword out about Nixle. Or come up with another way ter the officer-involved on-campus incident was for people can be informed. Have professors announce “crowd control.” We’re just spitballing, but if we news in class or have a campus-wide PA system. took a poll, the number of people claiming they’d Then, everyone will know right away. run toward a shooting probably wouldn’t be too high. Crimes happen here, but for far too long has El Camino’s way of So, we beg the question: Why not tell students, faculty and staff members are those in the community about crime? At least in a timely dealing with them has been not saying anything. It’s not going unnomanner? Is it because it’s believed no news is good news? Or that those ticed by students and those employed here. El Camino is ranked highly in many categories, but response time to crimes probably isn’t one of on campus and close by just aren’t aware? People here are not lacking awareness. Crime happens everywhere. them. Why act like it wouldn’t happen to us?

As a faculty member here, I find it especially important that we continue to share the meaningful work that we the faculty are doing outside of the classroom. Here I would like to inform our community about one of my passions outside of the classroom; social change. When I am not educating our amazing students about the wonderful world of Communication Studies, I am working with InterACT Performance Troupe for Social Change. I have worked with InterACT since 2005, educating people about various sociopolitical issues at locations such as juvenile detention facilities, domestic abuse shelters, housing projects, college campuses, academic conferences, and naval bases. InterACT was created by my colleague, Dr. Marc Rich in 2000, and we have since reached thousands of audience members through our “proactive” (highest level of audience involvement) shows. These performances allow audience members a safe space to rehearse assertive communication strategies and inspire social and political change. Our goal is to use real-life behavior experienced by college students so that audiences may discover the will to change. Our program has been proven effective in multiple quantitative, qualitative, and longitudinal published studies. Our presentations seek to combat rape myths, manage male defensiveness, create empathy for survivors of sexual assault, and prepare audience membershow to communicate when a friend discloses to them of a sexual assault. Early in 2014, InterACT was awarded a three-year contract from The Department of the Navy, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, to serve as the primary sexual assault prevention program. Between July and April, we performed for over 35,000 troops throughout the United States, as well as Italy, Greece, Spain, Japan, Guam, Guantanamo Bay, and Bahrain. During our spring break I traveled with InterACT to Djibouti, a country on the Horn of Africa, to present six interactive sexual assault prevention presentations for the U.S. Navy and Marines. My experience at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, Africa was similar to other trips to U.S. Naval bases but definitely felt different being half way across the world. Even though I was not able to leave the base and see much of natural beauty Djibouti has to offer, I was reminded of the enormous amount of privilege we gain by living in a first world country. It saddens me to think how much we take for granted in this country and how little people have in countries all over the world. This trip was also a reminder of the incredible courage and sacrifices our troops give for our country every day. Traveling to Camp Lemonnier has been a tremendous honor full of enriching, thought provoking, humbling, and inspirational interactions. Overall, this work has humbled me, given me a profound respect for the brave people of our military, and given me the great honor of serving my country by combating sexual violence within our military.

Not all transfer programs are worth the cost Puente Project supports Latino students to transfer but numbers disprove effectiveness

Are you familiar with the Puente Project? Puente Project is a transfer program that helps community college students with their academic plan. They offer “counseling and mentoring program” to help transfer to a four-year university. Last semester, the El Camino Puente Project was removed from a hiatus that was announced by President Tom Fallo in the last board of trustee meeting. According to the EC Puente Project website, the mission of the program is to “increase the number of educationally undeserved students who enroll in four-year colleges and universities, earn degrees, and return to the community as leaders and mentors to future generations.” The missions of the program sounds good on paper, but is it getting anything accomplished? With 30 years of helping EC students, the number of students involved in the program has decreased every academic year, according to a letter from Vice President of Academic Affairs Francisco Arce and

Jeanie Nishime last September. During the 2012-2013 academic year, 22,401 students were enrolled at EC, according to the 20132014 Final Budget. The Puente Project only had 25 students last semester and when the project was on hiatus, these students were transferred to First Year Experience (FYE), according to a letter from Arce and Nishim e last September. During the academic year of 2013-2014 the Puente Project had 106 students enrolled in the program and the budget of this was $70,601, according to a letter from Arce and Nishime last September. The actual staff that is in charge of running this program is getting a new method to have better results in this program, according to a past article of the “The Union.” It’s good that they want to change their work methods so that the project can get better results but the cost of maintaining the project is too much.

THE UNION

Vol. 69, No. 5 April 23, 2015

Email: eccunion@gmail.com Newsroom: (310) 660-3328 Advertising: (310) 660-3329

Editor-in-Chief ��Jessica Martinez Assistant Managing Editor...............................................................Sydnie Mills News Editor �� Phil Sidavong Features Editor ��Jessica Martinez Opinion/Editorial Editor �� Jay Bamba Arts Editor...........................................................................................Celine West Sports Editor �� Rocky Rivera Photo Editor �� John Fordiani Distribution Manager ��Lorenzo Gutierrez Advertising Manager �� Jack Mulkey Adviser ��Kate McLaughlin Adviser �� Stefanie Frith Photo Adviser...................................................................................Gary Kohatsu

Clearly it is a better choice to reduce the budget and use the extra cash to support other programs on campus that have more registered students. An alternative is to spend more time and money to promote the program so that it appeals to a larger mass of students. If this program is properly promoted, the results will be different and the money spent maintaining this program will be more worthwhile. Last semester, Puente Project’s former co-coordinator, Margaret Quinones-Perez, said that a lack of faculty at the Puente State Office had affected their work here and she did not understand why the project was on hiatus, according to a past article of “The Union.” However, the future of this program is not very encouraging, seeing how well known it is to the students. No matter what the mission states or Fallo says, the college is spending a lot of money on a program that does not have a convincing result.

The Union is published Thursdays by Journalism 11 students at El Camino College, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance, CA 90506, and is free to the student body and staff. Unsigned editorials and cartoons are the opinion of the editorial board and do not reflect the views of the student body, staff or administration. Letters to the editor must be signed and must be received one week prior to publication in the Union office, Humanities Building Room 113. Letters are subject to editing for space, libel, obscenity and disruption of the educational process. Single copies of the Union are free; multiple copies can be requested through the Union.

Illustration by Eugene Chang/ Union

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OPINION

APRIL 23, 2015

EL CAMINO COLLEGE 7

Campus viewpoints

Column

By: Monique Judge @ECCUnionMonique

Which is better for the students: Online or in-class education?

Monique Judge

Columnist ECCUnionMonique@gmail.com

How to prevent rape in a rape culture

Over the next few weeks, a lot will be said about the rape that happened near campus. There will be further reports from this paper on developing information in the investigation. The students who are aware of the situation will discuss it among themselves. They will talk about whether or not they know the victim. There may be an arrest. There may be a trial. There may even be a verdict. No matter the outcome of this situation, there will always be the victim who suffered the trauma. Each time she has to answer a question about it, she will have to visualize the experience over and over again. Her fellow female students and other women in the community will be cautioned. They will be given all kinds of advice on how not to be raped. Some of it will be good advice. Some of it will be misguided. All of it will be targeted at the very victims of this potential crime. None of it will be directed at potential suspects. Why don’t we teach boys and men not to rape? Why aren’t there classes telling men that no means no? Why aren’t there classes explaining that a woman’s body is her own? Where are the speeches about the violence involved in a sexual assault? Why aren’t we given character profiles of what a rapist looks like? It is 2015, and each time a situation like this happens classes, speeches, and workshops take place advising women on how to be aware of their surroundings. We are encouraged to take self defense classes and carry pepper spray and mace. We are advised to walk in groups at night. Why aren’t the men taught to keep it in their pants? Why aren’t the men taught to better handle their inner aggression so rape doesn’t happen? Why aren’t we as a community taught to look out for one another? Why do we say things “she shouldn’t have been by herself” and “her dress was too short” and “if she had been wearing pants this wouldn’t have happened” when the sad fact is that if it is going to happen, it’s going to happen no matter what she is wearing and no matter where she is? In this instance, the victim came forward and reported the crime, but how many times have incidents like these gone unreported for fear of victim blaming and shaming? When do we stop making victims accountable for being raped? I propose we stop stigmatizing victims. Let’s make it OK to come forward and point out your assaulter. Let’s stop pandering to patriarchy and recognize that women have value in this society that goes far beyond their beauty and sexual objectification. Let’s stop trivializing rape. No one has it coming. No one deserves to be violated. Let’s work to reverse misogyny. Let’s stop focusing on the woman’s sexuality and start educating men on their own sexual self-expression. Let’s stop being rape apologists when it comes to athletes, celebrities, and other people idolized in the media. Let’s admit that street harassment is in and of itself a form of sexual aggression and sexual harassment. Let’s put an end to it. Let’s take victims seriously when they report sexual crimes. Let’s focus on ‘how not to rape’ vs ‘how not to be raped.’ Let’s get it right next time.

THE UNION

For more from The Union, visit eccunion.com. Do you have story ideas for the newspaper? Send us an email at eccunion@ gmail.com.

Lizette David, 19, biology “I prefer on ground classes because you get one-on-one time with your teacher.”

Illustration by Eugene Chang/ Union

Pubudu Gunasekera, 19, transfer studies “Online. It’s easier timewise, and I wouldn’t have to drive anywhere.”

UP FOR DEBATE Which is better for the students: Online or in-class education? Online classes do more harm than good

Online degrees deserve the same recognition

When registration time comes along, be wary of the appeal of online classes. Distance education may mean staying home on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but the convenience may not be worth it in the long run. A 2011 study showed that “students were more likely to fail or withdraw from online courses than from face-to-face courses,” Rocky Rivera according to Columbia University. Sports Editor The causes for this can vary from @ECCUnionRocky technological barriers to an increase in distractions while online. Lack of social reinforcement to perform can also play a role in the lack of success of distance education. Some online classes require pre-installed software or an adequate Internet connection that not everybody has. While they may not be a problem for younger, some older students might struggle to adapt. And while many schools do have fully-equipped computer labs to serve the students, going to the college and using the equipment will contradict the point of distance education. The infinite number of distractions found on the Internet are sure to take away from online education, too. While each student is different, some more disciplined than others, the fact is every student will be tempted at least once to scroll through Facebook for a couple of minutes, watch a quick YouTube video or see what friends are up to on Instagram. Suddenly, minutes turn into hours and the time set apart to study and finish one’s online work has to be postponed. Social factors are also a possible culprit for the high drop rate in online classes. When an actual lectured course is taken, there is a higher chance of joining a study group with classmates. There are also some fields of study that simply cannot be taught without face to face interaction. Classes like public speaking, medicine, athletics and journalism are not teachable online. Even for subjects which are mostly text-based such as math and science, an online class still lacks the sense of communication that real life classroom lectures provide. College students can be a busy bunch. Education must often take a back seat to work, family obligations and simply having a social life. However, community colleges have adapted to meet the demands of the multitasking student. Evening and weekend classes are available to meet student demands and an online course should really be the last option for someone in order to get the full college experience.

A lot of people look down on online education. In my experience, people think that the only way to get a “real” degree is by physically moving into a dorm or apartment on campus and going to a class surrounded by other students. But online education is becoming more of a common thing and is something that people should Patrice Moore consider when it comes to college. Staff Writer Online education helps the @ECCUnionPatrice students who have jobs and internships. Nowadays, most students work part-time in order to take care of their basic needs or even to go to school in the first place. In reality, not all jobs are flexible in terms of scheduling. Unless the student has a campus job (and even then it can be tricky), it will more likely be difficult for someone to work while attempting to complete their degree. However, with online coursework there really is no designated check-in time and the student can do the work as he/she pleases from the comfort of their own homes, on their schedule, thus alleviating stress which can better help the student succeed. What people do not consider is that there are a fair amount of students who have families. It is hard enough trying to juggle a family, bills, and everything that comes with it, but to add the stress of attending school makes it more challenging. Another advantage to online coursework is the fact that assignments can be graded quicker. A lot of online coursework is tests and quizzes so by doing all the work on the computer, students can figure out their class standing at a much quicker pace and do what is needed to raise their grade if need be. With traditional education where a lot of the work is graded by hand, either by a professor or their teaching assistant, the grading process takes longer than it would if the instructor were using online quizzes and tests that grade things instantly. Cutting that out helps everyone because not only can the instructor input the grades quicker, the student can know how they’re doing in the class quicker without having to wait for a professor to hand grade a long test. While it may not seem as glamorous and prestigious as actually being an on-campus student, there are a lot of benefits to taking online classes. At the end of the day, you are still receiving a degree and doing the same work that on-site students are doing. It really does not matter how you go about it. Being an online student does not mean that your work is any less valuable or credible.

Aura Arana, 20, psyhcology “I prefer coming to campus. I feel like with online classes I’d get lazy.”

Reisden Myvett, 19, business management “I prefer to come on campus because I’m not going to take it seriously online.”

Lizabel Lozano, 20, psychology “On campus. If you don’t understand any topic, it’s easier to talk to your instructor.”

8 EL CAMINO COLLEGE UNION

Men’s volleyball team triumphs over Lasers Phil Sidavong

News Editor @ECCUnionPhil

The men’s volleyball team led 2-0 in sets. In set three, the Lasers had a 25-24 lead needing only one point to alleviate the possibility of being swept. The Lasers served a long ball that went out of bounds and El Camino was back in action with the score tied at 25. The Warriors served, and the Lasers’ attacker smashed the ball into the hands of sophomore middle blocker Peter Nordel. The ball went straight down on the Lasers’ side of the court, and EC took a 26-25 lead. With Lasers fans hoping that the visitors rallied back, EC served another ball, but the Lasers’ receiver went up and the attack went long. The crowd was cheering for EC, while those supporting the Lasers were making sounds and comments of disbelief. The No. 2 seed of the Western State Conference, EC, hosted the No. 3 seed of the Pacific Coast Conference, Irvine Valley College (IVC) for the first round of playoffs. The Warriors took out the Lasers in the first set. “We played them before,” coach Richard Blount said. “We had a fair understanding of what they would bring.” Losing 22-25 in the second set, IVC tried to come back, but the Warriors quickly dealt them a 2-0 set deficit heading into the third set. However, the Lasers did not go down without a fight. The Lasers pushed to an 11-6 lead, and Blount

SPORTS

APRIL 23, 2015

called for their second and final timeout of the set. “I usually talk about shoving my foot up their (expletive),” Blount said. “But this time, I said that we need to take this slowly. We need to crawl back.” The third set was very close and although the set score shows a sweep, by no means was it so easy for the Warriors. “We played well the first two sets,” Nordel said. “I think, had we lost that third set, it might have gone to five.” With the win over the Lasers, EC will head to San Diego on April 23 to face the No. 1 seed of the Pacific Coast Conference, Grossmont College. Earlier in the season, the Warriors beat Grossmont in four sets. “That was the beginning of the season,” Blount said. “They’re a different team, and so are we.” Freshman middle blocker Peter Sarmiento said previously that he was hoping for Grossmont to come to EC for the first round of playoffs. IVC was the third seed instead. “They were good,” Sarmiento said about IVC. “They were stronger in the beginning of the season, or maybe we just got better.” Captain and sophomore outside hitter Casey Wood felt that IVC player Cole Murray was a good show-up for the Lasers. Murray, who is coming off of a knee injury, had nine kills and two block assists on the night. “There was one hit that basically went over my head,” Wood said. “Doing that with a bad knee is intense. If I had to say one thing about him (I’d say) he was ‘studly.’”

• The Warriors will face Grossmont College tonight at 7 p.m. in the final four of the state championships. • Follow @ECCUnionPhil for live updates on Twitter and ECCUnion on Snap Chat

Jorge Villa / Union

Warriors outside hitter Casey Woods successfully spikes the ball against Irvine Valley’s Cody Hermanson last Friday night. The Warriors defated the Lasers 3-0 in the first round of the Southern California Regional playoffs. The Warriors advance to the next round as they play against Grossmont College in San Diego on April 23.

Beach city pole-vaulter reaches new heights Swim and dive teams Jed Fernandez Staff Writer @ECCUnionJed

The El Camino track team has had its ups and downs heading into the halfway mark of the season. Many players have been playing key roles consistently earning points for the team as a whole. But one freshman pole vaulter in particular has been dominating meet after meet this season and her name is Sara Curran. Curran has been one of the few stars in the track team that has been on a roll, placing in the top three in the majority of meets. She grew up in Manhattan Beach as a child, then moved to Redondo Beach later in her life, Curran said. As a South Bay native, Curran loved the coast and she immersed herself in water sports such as surf and swim, she said. Curran’s athletic ability became apparent in high school by representing Redondo Union in swimming, water polo, and surf. “I didn’t start pole vaulting until my junior year. I was a water polo player and swimmer at the time,” Curran said. Curran’s love for the sport quickly developed into a constant strive for perfection and nothing less. Curran’s toughest critic was herself as she said that it is a battle with yourself when it comes to pole vaulting. “It’s in her blood,” track coach Dean Lofgren said. “Her dad’s one of the best pole vault coaches around.” Pole vaulting runs in Curran’s family since her uncles and dad all practiced the sport. The transition

for her was very smooth compared to brand new beginners Curran said. “My dad’s whole family were pole vaulters, so it seemed appropriate,” Curran said. “I knew the terminology already and had good base for it because I did gymnastics when I was younger.” Curran’s dad, Anthony Curran, has been her pole vault coach since her career started in high school. Both Curran and her brother are very fortunate to have a dad mentor them in a sport the whole family loves. The credentials of Curran’s dad are top notch as he is the current pole vault coach at UCLA. “(Sara’s) been doing great. She’s has been very consistent and is always striving to be better,” her father said. Curran’s talent shined early on in her pole vault career in high school and carried it on in college representing EC. She said she picked up the sport quickly even though she started in her junior year of high school. Curran said her future plans involve transferring to SDSU or Concordia University for track and graphic design in advertising. When Curran’s not working on pole vaulting, she said that she enjoys surfing on her down time with the rest of her family. Curran’s skill on a surfboard is well known, as she is sponsored by Wellen Women and Savor Surf. Curran’s athletic ability and mental toughness is what makes her great on the field. “You always have to roll with the punches and perform under pressure,” Curran said. She just placed second in conference finals and is competing in the SoCal Championships.

compete for titles Phil Sidavong News Editor @ECCUnionPhil

Going into day three, the swim and dive teams were trying to take the conference title and end their season on a high-note. At the end of the final day for the South Coast Conference title, Mt. SAC took home the honor of first in both the men’s and women’s finals. The men’s team took home third place in the SCC standings for the conference dual meet points with 516.5 while the women also took home third with 513 total points. Jonathan Diaz, from the men’s

team, was named one of the two SCC Tri-Swimmers of the Year for the second time. He took first place in three events: * 500 M Freestyle, 4:38.26 * 400 M Individual Medley, 4:06.64 * 1,650 M Freestyle, 16:13.90 Christy Villasor took home the Co-Diver of the Year award for the women’s team. Villasor also won the 3-meter diving competition with a total of 158.40 points. Diving coach Jose Bahena won Co-Diving Coach of the Year for women’s and the Diving Coach of the Year award for the men’s team. The team took home second place in the combined mens and women’s team standings.

Softball team wins season-finale Aryn Hicks

Staff Writer @ECCUnionAryn

Gilberto Castro / Union

Freshman pole vaulter Sara Curran has been on fire for the El Camino Track Field. Her current highest jump of 3.59 meters in the women’s pole vault event.

El Camino bounced back after the loss against Mt. San Antonio College and defeated the L.A. Harbor Seahawks. The Warriors battled against the L.A. Harbor Seahawks in its final game of the regular season. Sophomore short stop Tori Garcia had an impressive game, and earned one RBI, stole two bases, and hit three doubles. Sophomore pitcher Reina Trejo had five strikeouts on the mound. The Warriors defeated the Seahawks 6-4 in seven innings which put them at 17-4 in their

conference. The Seahawks grabbed the lead early when they scored two runs in the first inning and one in the second. By the top of the third inning, the Warriors trailed 3-1. EC had a big sixth inning; three big runs scored by sophomore second baseman Marissa Padilla, sophomore first-baseman Jacqueline Gonzalez, and sophomore center-fielder Kathy Orozco clinched the lead for the Warriors and made the score 5-4 at the bottom of the sixth. The Warriors scored one more run in the seventh inning and ended the season 11-4 at home and 30-10 overall.

SPORTS

APRIL 23, 2015

Postseason on the horizon for sand volleyball team Mario Sosa

Staff Writer @ECCUnionMario

The wind arrived to say goodbye and blow the regular season away, as the sand volleyball team played its final games against Antelope Valley College and Fullerton College on Friday. The volleyball team split its doubleheader sweeping Antelope Valley 5-0, and then lost to Fullerton 3-2. “Everyone’s just on a different level,” Ka’ili Napoleon said. “We just didn’t play as we should and weren’t on the same level as anyone and we were just worried about the other side of the court rather than our side.” Last time the Warriors played Antelope Valley, they swept them as well. The Fullerton loss comes a week after beating them 4-1. The weather was also a factor in the loss later in the day as the winds only kept getting stronger. Laynie Thompson said that they did not really utilize the wind.

“The weather took a toll on us,” Thompson said. “We didn’t play smart today.” Now with the regular season behind them, the Warriors can look forward to the playoffs. Napoleon said that she expects the team to be a lot stronger in the postseason “We take usually the toughest games more seriously,” Napoleon said. While it may be tough, Thompson also expects the team to enjoy the challenge. “It’s fun being in the playoffs and it’s a really fun competition,” Thompson said. “I’m hoping that we’ll stay calm and just play our own game.” Although the regular season of the new sport has ended, there are things that coach LeValley Pattison would still like to see from the team before the commencement of the playoffs. “They’ve drastically improved from the beginning of the season with limited sand experience,” Pattison said. “I would like to see us be mentally tougher, a little

feistier maybe, (and) have a little more fight.” Pattison also has high expectations knowing how talented the team is. She said it’s a one shot deal and believes that the individual playoffs are fun for the team. “When you compete against the best, you see where you stand and hopefully move to the championship round of that bracket,” coach Pattison said. Pattison also believes the team has a shot at competing in the final four if they can put it all together. “We need three wins and Suka and Darlene have been very consistent,” Pattison said. “Nickeisha and Brooke have been playing very well. We need solid performances from Laynie (Thompson) and Sadie (Fraker) and a win from our fourth and fifth teams.” The Warriors ended the season with a final regular season record of 10-4. Six of those 10 victories were sweeps, while they conceded only one sweep. They finished with a record of 3-2 in their conference.

For the latest sports updates on the El Camino Warriors follow us on Twitter @ECCUnionSports or visit eccunion.com/sports.

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SPORTS

10 EL CAMINO COLLEGE UNION

APRIL 23, 2015

John Fordiani / Union

Sophomore setter Chris Griebenow is the leader in overall assists in the Western State Conference this season with 423. He is also the leading setter in the WSC with 666 overall assists and he led in assists per set in the WSC with an average of 10.58.

Volleyball star sets himself up for success

Phil Sidavong

News Editor @ECCUnionPhil

The ball is held by an opposing player. Once the whistle blows for the go-ahead, the player throws it up and serves a massive spin. An El Camino defender receives it and pops it up. The setter runs toward the ball and sets it up masterfully, while an EC attacker smashes the ball in between defenders. The Warriors huddle up in excitement as they gain a point.

It all started with the pass and ended with the spike, but it went to the setter’s hands halfway through. The setter on the court, the leader that every play usually goes through is sophomore setter for the men’s volleyball team Chris Griebenow. “I started out young,” he said. “I’m still lacking in defense, but I’m working.” The 21 year old has been an important addition to this year’s men’s volleyball team. He ended the season leading in overall as-

sists in the Western State Conference with 423, is the leading setter in the WSC with 666 overall assists and he led assists per set in the WSC with an average of 10.58. Coach Richard Blount sees Griebenow as an improvement to previous players on his team. “He’s taller (than our last guy),” Blount said. “The block is better, and the numbers don’t lie. He’s great.” Blount compared Griebenow’s job to one of the focal positions in baseball. “He’s like the pitcher of a base-

ball team,” Blount added. “He does a lot of the work in-game but he gets more of the blame if we lose.” Captain and sophomore outside hitter, Casey Wood, had a similar comparison of Griebenow. “He has a huge job,” Wood said. “He’s like a quarterback, and he does a great job of executing like one.” Wood and Griebenow have coached for the SCVC Quicksilver team together and have a special connection. Wood is the coach and Griebe-

now is the assistant coach of the young volleyball team. “He’s a great leader,” Wood said. “He has a high volleyball IQ.” “We click on and off the court, so it’s easy to get along with him,” Wood added. Griebenow’s mother, Tina, said there were a number of reasons why he’s so “great.” “His dad played at UCLA,” she said. “(Griebenow’s) been playing since he was 8, it was mostly his father’s decision.” Tina Griebenow feels wonder-

ful being able to watch him play. “It’s always nice when your child doesn’t come (off the floor),” she said. Griebenow wants to be a high school chemistry teacher when he finishes his studies. “I love helping people improve,” he said. “It’s what really makes my love for coaching. Seeing the progress of people is great.”

Baseball team opens final series strong against ELAC Grant Hermanns

Staff Writer @ECCUnionGrant

Freshman right-fielder Jonathan Pasillas took off from second base the instant freshman first baseman Jake Sahagian made contact with the ball. He rounded third and made it home as the ball landed in left field. The Warriors baseball team hosted the East Los Angeles Huskies on Tuesday in the first game of the final series of the regular season, and defeated them 10-4. EC followed up the RBI double with an RBI single by sophomore short stop Fred Smith that brought in Sahagian for the score. The Warriors earned one final run in the bottom of the first inning when sophomore catcher Joey Notch ripped a ball to rightcenter field for a double that also brought in Smith for the early 3-1 lead. Sophomore second baseman Joseph Cortez thought that the first inning was really the turning point in the game and got his team in the right mindset. “They’re not really fighting for anything,” Cortez said, “but we’re still battling to make it into playoffs.” After a scoreless second in-

ning, the Huskies had a solid third inning. They earned three runs and took a 4-3 lead over the Warriors, the biggest inning for the Huskies. Warriors’ assistant coach Jeff Miera said one of the main things his team needs to work on is preventing these kinds of defensive innings. “(We need to work) on limiting those really big innings,” Miera said, “and just having no mental mistakes.” EC followed up the Huskies’ strong third inning with a powerful bottom of the fourth inning with six runs scored, which gave them a big five-run lead over East L.A. The first was earned when second baseman Cortez doubled to center field that brought in freshman third baseman Ricardo Serrano and catcher Notch for two RBIs. The Warriors earned two more runs on a throwing error to first base that brought in second baseman Cortez and sophomore leftfielder Alex Turner. They earned another run when first baseman Sahagian hit a single that brought in right-fielder Pasillas. EC earned one final run in the inning when short stop Smith was able to reach first base on an error by the Huskies’ second baseman that brought in first baseman Sahagian.

John Fordiani / Union

Warriors second baseman Fred Smith tags East Los Angeles player out at second base in the bottom of the fourth inning. El Camino fell to the Falcons 7-6 on Tuesday afternoon.

Left-fielder Alex Turner felt the fourth inning was the real turning point in the game that helped his team to relax a bit. “(The fourth inning) really put a little cushion on it for us,” Turner said. After three more scoreless in-

nings, the Warriors were able to earn one final run in the game in the bottom of the eighth inning. Second baseman Cortez singled to left field which brought in right-fielder Serrano and put the final nail in the coffin for the 10-4 victory.

Miera said that his team’s offense was really on point all day “Our offense really stepped up,” Miera said. “10 runs is really something to be proud of.” The Warriors had an impressive day at both the plate and on the mound, earning 11 hits

against the Huskies and sophomore Dalton Erb threw eight innings before being relieved by sophomore Josh Norwood. Miera felt that the turning point in the game came “when Erb settled down and really got into a groove.”