NIO U N
Serving the campus community since 1946
Where are EC Alumni now? Douglas Trumbull
Page 3
EL CAMINO COLLEGE
March 8, 2012
Football players practice between classes
Changes to CSULB admissions criteria Stephen Voltattorni Staff Writer Proposed changes to major-specific admissions criteria at CSULB for the 2013-2014 academic year will affect EC students, Sue Oda-Omori, Transfer Center coordinator and counselor, said. According to an article in the Press Telegram, one of the biggest proposed changes for transfer students would be that they are required to take more prerequisite courses under their major before they can transfer from a community college. David Dowell, CSULB vice provost for planning and budgets, said there are going to be changes that would help cut the time it takes for students to receive a degree. “Most important is the major-specific admissions criteria,” Dowell said. Dowell said the university will be standing behind its position as far as prerequisites for acceptance are concerned. According to the California Postsecondary Education Commission, in 2009-2010 14.4 percent of EC students transferred to CSULB. Omori said these changes will definitely affect El Camino College students. “It means that students will need to be even more prepared and take all the recommended prerequisites,” Oda-
Torrance, California
Omori said. “That’s what students should be doing, getting into higher division classes.” “It’ll mean that all transfer students will meet the same minimum transfer requirements,” Dowell added. “It’ll mean that they have to take major course requirements.” Students like Bradley DuVall, 20, photography major, said he is already feeling early transitional pains. “It’s already hard enough with everybody wanting to go there,” DuVall said. DuVall added how it was already hard to get into CSULB because it was such a good college, and now it will make it even more difficult for students. He said most majors at CSULB are already impacted, including his own major, and now it will be even harder for him to be accepted. Oda Omari, like Dowell, focused on the subject of prerequisites and how well the student follows through on being prepared. “They’re going to look at how wellprepared students are in their major for the purpose of emphasizing prerequisites.” Oda-Omori said. Omori said she was optimistic about these changes to admissions criteria at CSULB for some students. “I think it’s going to provide a little bit more access to students outside of the local admissions area,” she added.
Michael Williams/ Union Eric Bates, 20, business and kinesiology major, leaps in mid-air intercepting the pass thrown to Narrion Thompson, 20, accounting major, in between classes for some football practice on the Track Field.
Redrawn district boundaries may change board compostition Diane Vay Staff Writer District boundaries were redrawn at EC, which may change the composition of the board of trustees and alter the way elections will be held, according to an article in the Daily Breeze. William Beverly, president of the board of trustees, has supported the idea of the new system believing that the “unfair” elections were caused by the old system. Beverly said this decision will now “even out” the number of voters per trustee because voters will only vote for candidates in their trustee areas. “It wasn’t a fair way of electing people based on current standards and election laws,” Beverly said. He said with the new system, each trustee will have equal-sized districts opposed to the old system where districts were separated based on high
school districts. According to an article in the Daily Breeze, the new system, which takes effect in November 2013, dictates that the population of every trustee area will be about 108,000. He added not only will the new system effect the election for a trustee by size, but it will also change the number of voters. “The EC board of trustees wanted to vote for representatives in their own areas rather than a representative from another area,” Joshua Casper, student trustee, said. Casper said having representatives elected in their own area would benefit voters because the representative would have the same mentality as his or her voters. Casper added that with the representative having the same mentality as his or her voters, it might be likely that the representative will “know what is
best for their area.” According to an article in the Daily Breeze, the new map is based on a more complex formula that takes into
“It wasn’t a fair way of electing people based on current standards and election laws,”
—William Beverly President of the board of trustees.
account several factors, such as, population size, racial makeup and city boundaries. “Not only does the new system ef-
fect the way representatives will be elected, but certain areas as well,” Casper said. “The new system affects areas two and five right now,” Casper said. Casper said with Maureen O’Donnell, vice president of the board of trustees, leaving her area and Ray Gen, board of trustees member, finishing his term by the next election, areas two and five will become vacant. “New representatives will come from areas two and five,” Casper said. According to an article in the Daily Breeze, the new configuration increases the likelihood of a Latino board member because Area 2 will shrink to include only the vast majority of Hawthorne and all of Lennox. Casper added that while areas may be effected by the new system, it may “save money” during an election. “It should save the district $1.1 million per election,” Casper said.
“Every dollar we do not spend on an election will be used for something else,” Beverly said. Casper said that while most of the board approved the new system, some disagreed and were not persuaded by what the new system had to offer. “O’Donnell wasn’t very happy with the change,” Casper said. “She had an issue with a number of things.” Casper added that the new system may make changes for the EC district, but it will not affect other districts. “The Compton campus will not be effected by the new system,” Beverly said. “We are a separate district.” Beverly added even though some members of the board disagreed with the new changes, it was neccessary. “I believe we had to change and fix the system,” Beverly said. “It is an improvement for the college as well as the community.”
Successful turnout for March 1 walkout Thomas Schmit Staff Writer
NEWS LINE
Kyle Ward/ Union Robert DeWitz, 20, psychology and OECC organizer, leads chants at the March 1 walkout.
Carina Gomez
Students and faculty gathered together to protest the crisis in education by marching around campus during the March 1 walkout, Occupy EC organizers said. Occupy EC organizers said during the protest more than 60 students and faculty simultaneously collapsed onto the library lawn in order to protest the death of higher education. The protest began with a procession of more than 90 protestors marching around campus shouting, “Don’t just watch us, come and join us!” Occupy EC organizers added. The demonstration, while organized by Occupy EC, contained a sizable number of students who had never before been a part of the group, such as Jordan Zimbleman, business major,
and Jordan Saul, theater major. “We weren’t able to get into a lot of the classes we wanted to and none of the winter classes we wanted,” said Zimbleman about joining the demonstration. “I’m upset because the school isn’t serving the students anymore,” Saul added. While campus police were present at the demonstration, it was regarded as a matter of procedure, rather than concern. “El Camino College students have a lot of class, and are very respectful” police chief Mike Trevis said. “We’re just here to make sure everyone’s rights are respected.” Of course, not everyone carrying a sign did so in support of the protest. Shane Smith, math professor, followed the demonstration with a very different message. Bearing a sign that read “Teacher
unions lost billions in risky stocks, why bail them out?” Smith questioned whether public unions should even exist. “With a private union, you’re negotiating against some fat cat with three yachts for money; with a public union you’re taking money from your neighbor’s taxes,” Smith said. The demonstration’s organizers felt that the event was a success. “Overall, I think it was a success because we got people’s attention,” Alex Rodriguez, Sociology major, said. Mila Anhielo, journalism major, said the March 1 walkout was a success because it brought students together to fight for their educational rights. “I thought the protest was an amazing display of our rights as community college students,” Anhielo said. “I thought we shed some insight on how unfair legislative decisions can affect students.”
University Fair at the Libray Lawn
Last day to drop without ‘W’ is tomorrow
Last day to file for graduation for spring
Spring Blood Drive starts next week
Cash for College Fair at the EC Library
Over 30 universities will participate in the University Fair held at the Library Lawn today, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn about majors, financial aid and get motivated to transfer.
Students looking to drop classes without notation on their transcript must drop on or before tomorrow. To drop, log on to the myECC website portal.
Students completing requirements for a certificate or degree during the spring have until today to file a petition in the Admissions office. Late requests will not be considered.
Inter-Club Council will partner with the American Red Cross for its annual blood drive. It will be held in the Student Activites Center East Lounge next Tuesday and Wednesday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Learn how to find cash for college. Get free help with your FAFSA Application at the EC Library on Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
NEWS
2 El Camino College Union
POLICE BEAT By Daniela Messarina
Male falls face first injuring nose Feb 28, 1:30 p.m.—A male non-student, injured his nose when he slipped and fell face first on cement. Paramedics were notified and he was transported to an area hospital for further treatment.
Vehicles in parking lot F broken into Feb 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.— Four vehicles, three trucks and one Honda Accord in parking Lot F were broken into during daylight hours. Stereo equipment and a few items left in plain view were stolen and a report was filed.
Suspect arrested for drug use
March 8, 2012
Fund expected to expand training Thomas Schimt Staff Writer Due to increasing numbers in unemployment, President Obama proposed $8 billion for job training at community colleges last month, according to an article in BusinessWeek magazine. The fund, which will pay to expand training and certification programs at community colleges for growing employment fields, aims to place two million skilled workers in well-paying jobs, according to a White House press release. Naomi Tokuda, Career and Technical Center, Project Coordinator, said she believes the fund is exactly what America’s economy needs. “American workers cost more,” Tokuda said. “It’s because we’re highly skilled and productive.” Tokuda said that many em-
ployers come to EC looking for students to employ. “From the South Bay alone, we have many employers coming to EC saying ‘we need people, when are they going to be ready?’” Tokuda said. In addition, the fund will support paid internships for low-income community colleges. This will allow students to gain credit for work based learning and relevant employment experience in high-wage, high-skill fields. According to a White House press release, a central goal of the fund will be the establishment of “Pay for Performance” strategies, which will provide financial incentives to programs whose graduates quickly find quality jobs. Tokuda added the demand for workers has been so high that many employers have resorted to hiring students before they can even gain their certificate.
“Most of our welding students get jobs long before they finish,” Tokuda said. Tokuda said this practice makes figures regarding the school’s student population deceptive, and adds difficulty to
“I don’t think we’re going to see any benefit to the youth of the nation until we make learning the goal of education instead of a skill set.”
—Ed Keenan psychology major
predicting how funds will be allocated. According to the Foundation
for California Community College’s Web page, for every dollar spent on economic and workforce development programs at community colleges, there is a $12 increase in California’s business income and employee wages. Tokuda said she remains hopeful that the fund will quickly pass and take effect in 2013. “I think that there’s a strong bipartisan support to help manufacturing in the U.S.,” Tokuda said. David Green, automotive collision repair and painting major, also strongly believes in the proposal’s goals. “I want it to go through, with all the budget cuts we’ve had, we really need it,” he said. Miguel Martinez, autobody repair major, is also someone who is eager for the proposal to pass. “It’s about time they give
a break to the school board,” Martinez said. “I think with the demand for jobs, it’ll definitely pass.” While some students are hoping that President Obama’s proposed $8 billion does happen, some students can’t help but to be skeptical about it and have questions and concerns. “It’s all a PR thing, it’s about making face before the upcoming election,” Ed Keenan, Psychology major, said. Keenan believes that things must change in education before this proposal can take effect and for him to believe this proposal. “Despite whatever money Obama pledged to give community colleges, I don’t think we’re going to see any benefit to the youth of the nation until we make learning the goal of education instead of a skill set,” Keenan said.
ICC attempts to collect 345 Units of blood
March 1, 2:20 p.m.— A cadet observed a suspicious subject sitting near the bike racks by Marsee Auditorium. Officers conducted a search and located Jorge Maldonado a glass pipe near his waistband, Staff Writer where they discovered the suspect was under the possession of Students are needed at the methamphetamine. American Red Cross blood drive event sponsored by the InterFemale student rushed Club council starting on Tuesday, March 13 located in the East to hospital Lounge of the Activities Center. Feb. 29, 2:20 p.m.— OffiThe annual blood drive will cers responded to the first floor take place from March 13-14 of the Humanities Building re- from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and March garding an unconscious female 15 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. student. Although she regained “One pint of blood saves three consciousness, paramedics lives,” Breanna von Stein, stuarrived at the scene. She was dent service specialist, said. transported to an area hospital. Any persons 17 or older or 16 with parental consent, is eligible to donate, however you must Editor’s Note: meet certain eligibility which include weight restrictions and certain medical conditions, acIn a story last week, we cording to the American Red failed to give credit to the AsCross’ eligibility requirements. sociated Students Organiza“It’s a relatively easy way to tion for its efforts to help degive back to the community,” lay the board of trustees vote von Stein said. to eliminate winter session.
The Inter-Club Council and the American Red Cross have been partnering up since September 2000 and have an expectation to meet a goal of 345 units, von Stein added. Students are encouraged to register online, through the
American Red Cross website, for an appointment time to expedite waiting. “The key factor will be for students to make appointments ahead of time,” von Stein said.
Bookstore prices help fund groups on campus Thomas Schimt Staff Writer Attending college is one huge expense. With students paying for classes, parking permits and health fees among other items, one of the few options that students have to spend less on is textbooks. No longer are students given only one option when it comes to purchasing textbooks. With online sites and the textbook store located on Crenshaw Boulevard, right across from campus, students have many options. Although the Bookstore prices are not favorable among students, a portion of the Bookstore profits funds many of the campus groups. Those groups include the Auxillary Service Board, the athletic department and even the Union newspaper. With more students turning online for book buying and rentals, as well as the Bookstore located across from campus, the deficit in the Bookstore profits are going to make it difficult to fund various student activities on campus. “We give funding to various campus groups that don’t get adequate funds; clubs that can’t fund themselves,” Rebecca Cobb, director of student development, said. The Bookstore gives $276,000 that goes primarily to the athletic department, art department, dance performances, all of the plays and some to the forensics team. “I know that with the recession we are taking a huge toll and it’s even affecting myself because the ASB gets money as well,” Lawrence A. Moreno, ASB Promotions Specialist, said. The money that helps fund the groups will be reduced significantly with about $100,000 less than the overall budget. For groups and clubs on campus looking to get financial help for their clubs, they can submit information to hopefully get some assistance. “Groups can submit a special request to receive funding and then the request gets reviewed,” Cobb said. Other groups that the bookstore funds includes the Union Newspaper, the ASO, with other parts going to the First Year Experience and Honors Transfer Program. With textboook prices being cheaper than the prices at the Bookstore, more students are turning to their computers to purchase necessary materials. More students prefer online book buying and renting than going to the bookstore because the online bookstores provide a range of affordable prices specific to their own budget.
The bookstore prices are higher than those outside the store because there are “pricing standards in the industry,” Julie Bourlier, director of the bookstore said. Many students said they have a lot more things to worry about than stressing over the price of textbooks. “I get my books from either Amazon or Chegg,” Taline Searles, 19, sociology major, said. “They usually have all the books I need, way cheaper than the ones at the bookstore.” Chegg, Amazon, Half.Com and other textbook websites are the most common websites EC students visit to buy or rent their books. “Part of the problem is that we don’t have any adequate revenue to keep the sales going,” Cobb said. However, if all students bought an ASB sticker, we wouldn’t have to rely so heavily on the bookstore profits and it would “help keep a healthy account,” Cobb said. According the the EC website, the ASB sticker gives discounts to its very own from bookstore. The Bookstore profit is mainly where they receive the funds so they can get funneled into the departments that need it the most. However, with some students taking many classes and not receiving financial assistance, some students don’t have an option of where to purchase their textbooks that is why they must find cheaper alternatives for their budget. “I was denied financial aid so it’s already hard as it is to pay for my classes and textbooks,” Omar Castro, 19, business administration major, said. Castro also said he would consider buying textbooks from the Bookstore from now on to possibly help fund our college. Although students like Searles and Castro avoid purchasing their required reading material at the Bookstore, not everyone is buying their textbooks from an online source. “My parents give me money for books and the Bookstore is where my sister told me to buy my books from, so that’s where I buy them,” Mary Kate Underhill, 19, theater major said. Although Underhill is one of few who turn to the Bookstore for materials, she said she would consider buying textbooks somewhere cheaper if her parents ever stopped giving her money because that would “save a lot of money.” For students who would like to purchase their textbooks at the Bookstore, it also offers discount priced textbooks at a “used” price early on in the semester when textbook availability is greater.
The Red Cross will have the donor go through a four-step process. The process includes registering with your donor card, driver’s license, or other form of ID, a confidential physical, eight to 10 minutes of donating and finishing with a rest period of eating a snack and re-hydrating, according to the Red Cross website. The Red Cross recommends donors to be well rested, drink an extra 16 ounces of fluids and eat a healthy meal, avoiding fatty foods before donation. “Eat a nice big ol’ breakfast,” Ricky Gonzalez, secretary of the Inter-Club Council, said. In addition to donating, donors will receive a voucher for two tickets to a L.A. Galaxy game and will be eligible to enter into a regional drawing for a Disneyland annual pass.
Facts about giving blood • Donors must be healthy. • A person may donate every 56 days. • A donor must weigh at least 110 lbs. • A person’s blood pressure must be between 80/50 and 180/100 at the time of donation. • A person may donate if his or her tattoo was applied at a state-regulated facility that uses sterile needles and single-use ink. • Pregnant women cannot donate blood and must wait six weeks after the end of pregnancy to donate. • Persons who tested positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C at any age may not be eligible to donate.
FEATURES
Thursday March 8, 2012
Therese Murray, state legislator, first attended EC in the ‘80s before getting her management certification at the University of Massachusetts, Boston and was then elected senator of the Plymouth and Barnstable District located in Massachusetts in 1992. In 2007, Murray was elected as the first female President of the Massachusetts Senate, according to her official website, www.theresemurray.com. She supports a variety of issues, including affordable housing, education, environment, health care and public safety and has won many awards for her activism. According to her official website, in 2010, Murray was awarded a Legislative Achievement Award for her work on a law c o n cerning ethics with regards to f i n a nc ing lobbying and campaigning in 2009. Murray currently serves as the president of the Massachusetts Senate.
Where are they now? Eva Ziss-Patton Staff Writer
ctors, athletes and musicians all get their start somewhere. While some begin as childstars, many celebrities attend college. And with a notable list of alumni who attended EC, here are a few who have made it big! From being featured on the big screen to becoming senator, these oncecollege-students turned their aspirations into major accomplishments.
A
Filmm a k e r , Douglas Trumbull attended EC where he studied architecture, according to www.film reference. com. He began working at Graphic Films, creating animated films for the U.S. Air Force and NASA, to pay for his tuition. Then in 1968, Trumbull kicked off his movie career as a member of the special effects team for Stanley Kubrick’s film “2001: A Space Odyssey.” He is also responsible for the visual effects of films such as “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” in 1979 and “Blade Runner,” in 1982. Trumbull has also directed and produced films such as “Silent Running” and “Brainstorm.” He was nominated for several Academy Awards in the best effects and visual effects categories for his work, according to Turner Classic Movies. And Trumbull won many awards, including the Scientific and Engineering Award at the Academy Awards in 1993. He now resides in Massachusetts where he is working on various science fiction film projects, according to the website www.film-reference. com.
Marion Knight, also known as Suge Knight in the music industry, is the former CEO and co-founder of Death Row Records. But before he created a successful record label, Knight attended EC from 1982 to 1983 where he played football. “He was hardworking, respectful and very focused,” Eugene Engle, football offensive coordinator, said. “I think some of those same things made him successful.” Knight went on to play football at UNLV on a scholarship and then signed as a free agent with the L.A. Rams. But his career was short lived when he was cut from the team, Engle said. His career in the music industry began shortly after when he started working as a bodyguard for popular entertainers such as Bobby Brown and Tom Kline, according to the website hiphop.sh. Knight eventually founded the label, Funky Enough Records, where he is most known for discovering and signing Dr. Dre, the website hiphop.sh stated. Together, the two formed Death Row Records in 1991, which represented artists such as Snoop Dogg and Tupac Shakur, according to an article in the Washington Post. While he was accused of using ruthless tactics to get his way in the music industry according to the website hiphop.sh, this was not a side of him familiar to Engle. “He was very respectful, very appreciative of everything I did for him,” Engle said. “Not anything like the persona that was out there in the public.” Today Knight has been low key in the music industry, but is aiming to form a new record label with a “more positive spin,” the Washington Post said.
Known for his lead role in “Hunter,” a popular police drama in the late ‘80s, Fred Dryer attended EC from 1961 to 1962 where he played football for the Warriors. He eventually transferred to San Diego State University where he signed with the NFL, John Featherstone, football coach, said. Dryer began his career as a football player for the New York Giants and then played for the L.A. Rams. “Football-wise, he was a real smart, tough football player,” Featherstone said. “I think he was allpro at least five times for the New York Giants and the L.A. Rams.” Dryer played professional football for 14 years before he began his acting career in 1984 starring as Rick Hunter in “Hunter,” according to his official website. “He’s just a fun guy,” Featherstone said. “Plus, he’s a very talented actor. He has a great sense of humor and he’s got a great personality.” Dryer currently lives in L.A. where he produces films, continues to act and works as a product spokesperson, according to the website TMZ.com.
El Camino College Union 3
Attending EC in the ‘60s, members of The Beach Boys, an American rock band made up of brothers Carl, Brian and Dennis Wilson, Mike Love and Al Jardine, found great success in the music industry. Jardin was studying to be a dentist at the time when he met Brian Wilson at EC, according to a 1962 article printed in the Warwhoop, EC’s student newspaper. Together, the band produced the best selling album “Surfin’” in 1961 and before long, The Beach Boys signed a music deal with Capitol Records, according to the website www.thebeachboys.com. While the band continued to make hits, Jardin returned to EC to finish his college career, but rejoined the band in 1963. The Beach Boys had some of America’s bestselling hits and the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. While band members have gone their separate ways, this year marks their 50th anniversary as a band and they plan to reunite with a world tour starting next month.
Lauren Sanchez, a broadcast journalist and TV personality, was known as Wendy Sanchez while attending EC in the early ‘90s. While a student on campus, Sanchez wrote for EC’s newspaper. She has since become popular in the broadcasting world as an entertainment reporter for “Fox News” and anchor of “Fox Sports News,” “UPN News 13,” and “Good Day LA,” according to her official website. “She was very driven and no one was going to stop her from reaching her goals,” Lori Medigovich, journalism professor, said. “She did exactly what she said she would do.” Sanchez was nominated for an Emmy for a news report on the dangers of metal baseball bats that was aired on Fox Sports News. Sanchez also gained fame as the host of the popular TV series, “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2005 and 2006 and was recently featured as one of “People’s 50 Most Beautiful.” Sanchez also appeared in a variety of movies including “Fight Club,” “Fantastic Four,” “Akeelah and the Bee,” and “We Bought a Zoo.” She is currently the co-host of the entertainment news series, “Extra,” according to her official website.
Still the current record holder at EC for the 1500-and 800-meter dashes, Sharette Garcia, Olympian, attended EC from 1988 to 1990. Garcia, who eventually graduated from Arizona State University, participated in the 1996 Summer Olympics representing her native country of Belize. She competed in the women’s 800-meter event, where she placed seventh overall, according to www.sports-reference. com. She is described as “one of the most dedicated and nicest people” to come through the track and field program, Dean Lofgren, track and field coach, said. Recently, Garcia was an inductee into EC’s Athletic Hall of Fame. “She was a multiple event state champion for us,” Lofgren said. “She was one of the best to have ever come through the community college ranks.”
Photos Courtesy of Fanspix.net and theresemurray.com
EDITORIAL
4 El Camino College Union
March 8, 2012
Requirements leave tranferees concerned
Illustration by Dan Baldonado
Competing for admission to colleges is becoming harder each year. With forecasted budget cuts for the 2013-2014 academic year, many colleges are proposing a change in their admission policies that would force students to re-evaluate their college education plans. The challenge that students face is becoming more real as some colleges in the CSU and UC systems have already orchestrated strict changes to the entrance requirements that are in place. Possible new guidelines proposed would require transfer students to complete more prerequisite coursework toward a major at the community college level before applying for admission at a four-year university. California State University, Long Beach, which this year received a “record number of undergraduate applications” according to a Daily News article, is contemplating adopting these new transfer admission requirements. While an official at CSULB
said these changes would create a more “streamlined path to graduation” by pushing students to declare a major sooner and therefore eliminating unnecessary coursework, it would put many transfer students’
The Issue • Changes to admission will effect students in the long run.
Our Stand • It’s difficult enough transferring; with these changes, it will prolong a students education.
education plans in jeopardy. With fewer courses being offered at the community college level, it will take students longer to meet the prerequisite requirements proposed by CSULB. This would decrease student
transfer rates and prolong the next step in their college education plans. On top of competing for courses, the proposed admission requirements would force students to take other measures in order to advance their graduation plans. According to an article in the Daily News, students who meet CSULB’s minimum admission requirements but are in the bottom 10 percent of the applicants will have to take remedial classes before being admitted into the college. The Transfer Center also has a number of scheduled workshops designed to help students fill out applications and understand the requirements of different academic programs. Students are encouraged to educate themselves on the college’s admission requirements before applying and confer with a counselor for a better chance at competing for a spot, which become more limited each year. As colleges continue to face budget cuts, higher-education is no longer a privilege, but a matter of survival.
Empowered students take stand for education Students gathered all over campus and joined together as they made their way through the hallways chanting “Don’t just watch us, join us,” in hopes of getting students to walk out of their classes. Waves of protests spread across the globe over the last year from Egypt to Greece, demonstrating the strength of the human spirit. Refusing to be outdone, the U.S. began participating in this new-age movement of empowering the common man and fighting for social justice through Occupy Wall Street. Most recently, a new movement, Occupy Community Colleges, branched off of this upheaval. While many students have sat by and watched budgetary
issues increase, Occupy EC hasn’t just watched. They’ve taken things farther with a walkout last thursday and it was time for that. We should not underestimate the power of these “Occupy” grassroots movements. Our youth could channel their anger into a potent political force. Like Hosni Mubarak, the elites run the risk of underestimating the power of a large number of unemployed and underemployed educated young citizens armed with social media weapons to inflict significant damage. This occupy movement could be 2012’s answer to the Tea Party revolution of 2010. The Ocupy EC walkout showed support for the “Occu-
py” movement’s principal criticism that budget cuts nationwide have thrown the state of education into a crisis. Students will no longer stand for the increasing level of debt they are accruing from college loans and poor job prospects. Students from low-income families, students from the upper class and college professors aiming to focus the movement in an effective direction are participating in this organization. These forces are gathering together to protest the 9.1-percent unemployment rate for 2010 college graduates, which is among the highest levels in history. According to The Project on Student Debt, a research and policy nonprofit organization, claims that class of 2010 stu-
dents graduated with an average of $25,250 in debt, a 5-percent increase from 2009. That’s no surprise given that billions have been cut from higher education over the past three years, leading to wait lists for classes that are thousands of students long, particularly in California. Also according to research, approximately 150,000 California students were turned away from community colleges last year because of cuts. With a state unemployment rate of 12.1 percent—the second-highest in the nation— and employers adding a mere 11,000 net jobs this year, California students in particular are feeling the jobless pinch. So it’s not surprising that more than 20 percent of the
colleges participating in occupy colleges are in the Golden State. Many students are angry that their money and prosperity are largely affected by decisions or lack of decisions made under EC’s administration. Wouldn’t you be angry if you were graduating in the fall of 2012 with more than $30,000 in debt and fearing that you may not be able to find a job? These student protests are a call for help from our leaders. Will our leaders hear them, understand them and help them? The EC students involved are willing to do anything to make a difference. Yes, a campus walkout and an urban tent in front of the Schauerman Library may seem
crazy. Another way of making a difference would be to write a letter to the board of trustees letting them know how much it has affected students as a whole. Regardless of method, however, the importance of this movement is the solidarity shared between colleges. Across the country, students are rising up together to fight for a cause they believe in and they want their voices to be heard, so we must support their struggle. It’s their goal to go straight to the top and focus on our lawmakers. The only way students will see reductions in fees among other things is to take stand. —See related article on Page 1
Twins share more than just looks CAMPUS INSIGHT Having a twin is no different than having a sister that you are really close to, with the exception that you share nearly everything with her. Growing up, my Miriam Malik biology major twin Sarah and I always had the same set of friends, had the same taste in music and TV shows, played the same sports, did the same activities and somehow grew to have distinctively different personalities. Looks are not everything, but when it comes to being a twin, sometimes they are. I have lived through funny situations where a random person will run up to me screaming “Sarah!!” and ready to hug me only to find out I am Mariam. People will have full conversations with me and later tell me that the whole time they thought they were speaking to my twin. There are many ups and downs of being a twin. My parents, for example, dressed us alike when we were younger, which was nice, except Sarah always had the pink outfit, while I wore the blue one. Sarah has always been amazing at school and my parents were always confused as to why I was not just as good. I have always been shy while Sarah was outgoing but while Sarah takes matters to heart, I could eas-
NIO U N EL CAMINO COLLEGE
Vol. 65, No. 11 March 8, 2012 E-mail: eccunion@gmail.com Newsroom: (310) 660-3328 Advertising: (310) 660-3329
ily brush off an issue and in general I am more relaxed while Sarah is opinionated. Sarah and I do have an older sister, and when it comes to certain issues, I feel like Sarah can relate more to me because she can see a situation through my eyes, while Kinza, our other sister, looks at it through an older sister perspective. We did once try to switch classes in high school and while the teachers did not notice, it backfired when I had to take a pop quiz that was meant for Sarah and ended up failing it. We still do the same things together, we still lean toward the same set of friends, but we each have our preferences, such as how we dress and our interest in guys. There definitely are more positives than negatives to having a twin, because when my friends turned their back on me and I had no one, I could always rely on Sarah to be there for me. The kind of bond that we share is stronger than any friendship. I can say that if Sarah and I were not twins, we would for sure be close friends. The views expressed in Campus Insight are those of the authors. They do not represent the views or opinions of the Union, its staff, editorial board or advisers. This column is available to students and faculty. All articles may be submitted to eccunion@gmail. com. Please note that articles may be edited for content and length.
Editor-in-Chief ........................................ Viridiana Vaca-Rios Co-News Editor................................................. Santina Wolfe Co-News Editor.............................................Viridiana Vaca-Rios Co-Opinion Editor ........................................... Carolyn Ayton Co-Opinion Editor........................................Viridiana Vaca-Rios Features Editor .................................................. Ashley Curtin Arts Editor .......................................................Eman Elshiyab Sports Editor.............................................................Candice Criss Photo Editor ......................................................... Kyle Borden Online Editor-in-Chief .....................................Eman Elshiyab Advertising Manager....................................Stephanie Alcorn Adviser ..........................................................Lori Medigovich Adviser .........................................................Kate McLaughlin Photo Adviser............................................................Gary Kohatsu Technical Support ....................................................Don Treat
Reach out to local government officials COMMENTARY It’s time for students to get involved with local governmental issues. Standing-up and speaking out is an American right. Jorge Maldonado So why do many people Staff Writer fail to voice their issues to government representatives? After all, they are elected officials, paid by tax-dollars, and it’s their job to listen to the people in the communities they represent. And with all of the cutbacks to California’s educational system, it is time for students to confront the issue and make their voices heard by state representatives. But there are many options to consider before sending a letter to congressional leaders. First and foremost, people should know who their senators and state representatives are and have their proper contact information. A great place to find this information is www.usa.gov. From there, a search can be conducted for local senators or members of the House of Representatives. U.S. representatives hold two-year terms and are divided into districts within each state. And each state, regardless of its population, has two senators, which are elected to serve sixyear terms. The Union is published Thursdays by Journalism 11 students at El Camino College, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance, Calif. 90506, and one copy 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, the staff or the 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.
Next in the writing process is constructing a well-thought-out letter. The letter should be simple and address a single topic or issue. According to the U.S. Government website www.usa.gov, which list tips on writing to congressional leaders, the letter should define an issue and describe reasons that support the issue; provide details that are factual. The U.S. Government website also lists key things to avoid in a letter and some of those avoidances include gushing vulgarity, profanity and threats. When ending the letter, propose a solution to the issue. It is best to recommend a way to help provide a course of action and always conclude with a thank you. With many of the congressional leaders having their own websites, it makes it easy for people to submit online letters or traditional postdated letters sent through the mail are just as effective. The state representative within the EC district is Maxine Waters and serves the 35th District, which includes greater South Los Angeles and the cities of Westchester, Playa Del Ray, Gardena, Hawthorne, Inglewood and Lawndale. While the senators representing California are Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein. Our congressional leaders are in office to serve the community. So it’s time to make a difference and be part of a movement.
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OPINION
March 8, 2012
El Camino College Union 5
UP FOR DEBATE
Do music competition shows launch careers? Music competitions help artists launch their careers.
Matt Simon Staff Writer agents or to live in Los Angeles and go to auditions, these shows provide them with the publicity they need to jump start their careers. The popularity of music competition shows just keeps growing, which is a testament to their success in making their winners a hit.
With singing competitions on the rise, the question, “Do these shows really find America’s next biggest star?” comes to mind. The answer is a resounding “NO.” In the last 10 seasons of “American Idol,” only three winners have won Grammys, according to grammy.com. That means that a show that allows
its winners to be chosen by the fans has failed seven out of 10 times. Yes, these winners have received $1 million contracts, but when those contracts are up, these “American Idols” crash and burn more than racers do at the Daytona 500. After about a year, the winners of American Idol lose their hype and turn into “Where are they now?” stories. The biggest argument against these shows is that sometimes the fans don’t get it right and people who were runner-ups end up being far more successful than the winners. For example, Jennifer Hudson, who finished third in voting behind winner Fantasia Barrino, has gone on to win one Grammy and has won best supporting actress at both the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes. “The Voice,” which is on its second season, is another weak attempt to spice up the singing competitions by having judges pick a team of singers without seeing them perform.. While the process brings a little fun to the program, the result is the same. Last season ,winner Javier Colon’s hype died out before it even got started. Colon has received a resounding one nomination for Breakout Artist at the 2011 Teen Choice Awards, which he lost to non-reality star Bruno Mars. So if you’re looking for America’s next big thing, stop watching these over-the-top singing competitions and look somewhere else, you may have better luck.
Illustration by Dan Baldonado
Rising costs drive students to public transportation options COLUMN
Daniela Messarina Staff Writer
My alarm goes off on a Monday morning and I am still dreaming about wearing my gold tassel, cap and gown while my name is called at the podium. But before I reach out to receive my diploma, I open my
eyes and think about how early I have to get up for school just to take the bus. Dream over! The same routine goes on until Thursday — breakfast, getting ready for the day, making my lunch and going through my jar of coins searching for 50 cents. There are incidents where I press the snooze button and sleep for a couple more minutes. Great! I missed the bus and now my morning is off just because I have to rely on some punctual bus schedule. Traffic can get heavy some mornings, so I luck out at least twice during the week and barely make it in time at the bus stop. While I am still sav-
By Mayu Kataoka
Music competitions are just temporary hype for artists.
Stephen Voltattorni Staff Writer Could you imagine being a contestant on “American Idol,” “The Voice” or “X-factor,” being successful and becoming No. 1? Well, it could happen to you if you have the skills and a little bit of experience. Some people long to be famous and these shows help them gain the publicity they need. With winners like Susan Boyle, who sang, “I Dreamed a Dream,” and 6-year-old Connie Talbot, who sang, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” some dreams do come true and there just might be a pot of gold where the rainbow touches down, no matter how old or young, big or small you are. Boyle and Talbot were both runners-up and they are both becoming millionaires. These talent shows serve as a platform for prospective stars. This is not to say that each person becomes successful, or it wouldn’t be a contest. It works for a select few and at the discretion of the judges and fans. With the driving factors being fame and fortune, the show contestants strive to line their wallets with big money and a camera in their face at all times, so the hype could last if you go big and hit the high notes. Could this actually happen to one of our own rising stars? Some students do indeed have the experience and the skills for entertaining if they are participating in any of the arts programs here. For people who can’t afford
CAMPUS CORNER
ing up for a car, every one of my friends and students attending EC has their own transportation. But what I noticed for the past semesters is the amount of students taking the No. 5 bus. Carrying books in my arms and my smart phone in my hand, I couldn’t find a place to sit this morning. The majority of passengers are students, carrying their backpacks, listening to music, drinking coffee or reading material for an upcoming exam or lecture. The Metro red bus makes a stop across the street and I see more students getting off. With gas prices skyrocketing, more students can’t afford to drive to campus and instead
rely on buses to get them there. In a world of budget cuts, $5 per gallon gas and drivers that make bicycling as thrilling as cliff jumping, it seems like it’s just getting harder to go to college. Thankfully, the bus system exists for students who are limited on transportation options. Life would be much easier if Los Angeles had a system like San Francisco’s BART, but at least we can rely on Metro. Taking the bus to school has not only taught me to be more appreciative of what I have, but has helped me become more independent. Students like myself who cannot afford a car at the mo-
ment or can’t keep up with rising gas prices are flocking to public transportation.
Diane Lee President Society of Music Club
Diane Lee is the president of the Society of Music Club. The club meets every other Tuesday from 1 to 2 p.m. in Room 125 of the Music Building. How did you get involved in the club? I was recruited my second semester as the secretary and I stopped after a semester to focus on my studies. What activities does the club participate in? We do three main things as a club. First, we out reach out to the community. So we play for communities and we’ll play at schools. Basically we increase awareness of our music program. Second, we try to do campus stuff; we’ll hang out, get to know each other better as a music department. And third, when our classes are getting cut, we advocate. We go to the board of trustees meetings and try to get involved in the politics of what’s going on. What kind of fundraisers does the club do? Our biggest fundraiser is every semester we’ll have a student recital and this is everybody’s chance to get out and perform. Come out of the closet and take out the guitar and show what you’ve got. It will be in May, mostly likely on May 18th in the Haag Recital Hall and we’ll have a different variety of music. When was the club started?
Please connect with me by email at daniela.messarina@ gmail.com
It was a few years ago, the administration was threatening to close down our Music Library, which is the core of our music department. A couple of people rallied and built the club in order to save the Music Library.
Follow me on Twitter @ECCUnionDaniela
What is your goal as president?
Join the conversation online at www.eccunion.com
I would like to see this club reach a new height. Not just in the school, but in the community. Music has such a low influence level right now like it’s not anywhere near it should be.
The views expressed in this column are those of the author. They do not represent the views or opinions of the Union, its staff, editorial board or advisers.
CAMPUS VIEWPOINTS
Do music competition shows launch careers? By Carolyn Ayton and Kyle Borden
Zakyia Zardes, 19, Public relations
Donovan Glenn, 18, Business
Ruth Ake, 19, Photography
Drake Defries, 19, Communications
Keshawn Thompson, 19, Art
Michelle Miranda, 19, Communications
“No. I think sometimes the people who don’t win end up more successful. It just depends on their drive.”
“Yes. For some people it can be a door that will lead them. If they have the drive, they’ll make it big.”
“No. It depends on their personality. Fantasia is doing a reality show because she can’t promote her album.”
“No. They say it’s all based on talent, but I think it’s also about looks. They have to fit a certain look to be successful.”
“Yes. It depends on who they know and what their connections are, but if they have an agent they can make it.”
“Yes. “American Idol” works if they’re a favorite. As long as they’re a favorite of the people, they can be successful.”
ARTS
6 El Camino College Union
ON THE SCENE
March 8, 2012
Music Library provides help to all
By Jorge Maldonado
Music Guitar Practice Labs Practice labs are being offered specifically for those in beginning and intermediate guitar. Both labs meet in Room TH155 and are led by Karina Arizmendi. Beginning guitar lab meets on Monday from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and the intermediate guitar lab meets on Thursday at 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Film “Along the Royal Inca” Travel on a journey through the descendants of the Inca. Discovery Films presents “Along the Royal Inca Road” at the Marsee Auditiorium on March 12 at 3 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 and may be purchased online. For more information, interested persons may go to the Ticket Office.
Theater “Once on This Island” Love brings two people from opposite worlds together in the musical, “Once on This Island” at the Campus Theatre starting on March 17 at 8 p.m. and select dates through March 27. Tickets are $25 for adults, children 12 and under is $18 and tickets can be purchased online. For more information, interested persons may go to the Ticket Office, or call 1-800-832ARTS.
Diane Vay Staff Writer As the double doors of the Music Building open, sound coming from musical instruments echoes throughout the hallways. A sign at the end of the hallway reads, “Music Library, 126,” with a bold black arrow pointing to the right. The Music Library serves all students, faculty and staff. Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It exists as a specialized branch with many of the services offered by the Schauerman Library and Learning Resources Center. Anne Palmer, 32, library media tech said EC is one of the few community colleges in the state that dedicates a library to music. With eight computers and three study tables and some may consider the library small. However, it possesses a collection of sheet music as well as equipment that may not be found in any library. Palmer said that unlike the Schauerman Library, the music library provides textbooks, audio recordings and a collection of DVDs of operas, musicals, jazz, and ballet. “We have a full-time Music Library along with more than two thousand CDs and sheet music,” Dane Teter, coordinator of the Applied Music Program said. “Our Music Library has an enormous amount of materials.” The Music Library also provides rooms for music majors to practice. “We offer practice rooms to play any instrument and to
Mike Botica /Union Brittny Peterson /Union Top: Students at the Music Library using the computers and studying silenty. Jerry Hernandez, 18, music major, plays the Euphonium in one of the practice Bottom: Lord Byron Scott, left, music major and Karyn Kerkhoff, right, music rooms next to the music Library. tutor, discuss questions about his music sheet together in the Music Library.
practice vocals,” Palmer said. “These rooms are provided for a limit of thirty minutes if there are other students waiting to use the rooms.” Palmer said the practice rooms are equipped with a piano and a speaker that can connect to portable devices and CD players. The Music Library also provides free music tutors who specialize in tutoring for specific instruments.
Student loves making jewelry Mayu Kataoka Staff Writer Carefully selecting the brightest colored stones, she grabs her pliers and begins bending the wire. Delicately placing each stone right after the other she begins hand crafting an elegant necklace. Silvia Peluso, 46, art major, is a jewelry maker in her sixth semester at EC who hopes to make her jewelry passion into a career. Peluso makes every piece of her jewelry with a story behind each item, emphasizing that she wanted to send a message with intention. “I want to send a message out to people that’s going beyond the beautiful piece of jewelry,” Peluso said. “You wear it for a purpose.” Her work has recently been paid off when she was featured in a jewelry magazine called Bell Armoire. “In order to be successful, you have to be passionate about something,” Peluso said. “Once you know your passion, you have to know what you want.” As a teenager, Peluso said she pined for unique pieces of jewelry with a mystical, other worldly feel. Years later, she became a part-time assistant in a metaphysical store where they introduced her to the power and energy of crystals. “I developed an intimate attraction to these stones, finding them much too beautiful to carry around in my pockets,” Peluso said. So she taught herself how to wire wrap the stones and wear them as jewelry. “Soon after that,” she said. “People began asking me to make jewelry for them.” Peluso has many dreams and goals ahead of her. “My goal is to become so good that I can showcase my work in galleries,” Peluso said. From teaching classes to
Amira Petrus /Union Silvia Peluso, 46, jewlery maker, holds her hand-crafted necklace.
doing shows, Peluso wants people to be happy with her jewelry and know that she has different intentions other than just selling them. She said her challenges as a jewelry maker, was that she wishes she had more time to make everything. “A day only has twenty four hours,” Peluso said. “I have so
would she consider using machines to get the job done faster. “I bring out the energy, my vision, and spirituality into it so I don’t want to have a machine make it,” Peluso said. Classmates of Peluso have also seen her determination and hard work during class. “I’m inspired by her work,” Bonnie Pio, jewelry maker, said. “I like her work because it’s aesthetic.” Even Peluso’s jewelry professor, Irene Mori, has seen the incentive work she puts into her creations and is often surprised at what she comes up with. “I give her an assignment and she does twice the work,” Mori said. “She totally takes the ball and gets it rolling.”
RISING
STAR much in my head and I stress out because I can only do a certain amount when there is much more to create.” However, Peluso said she would not consider hiring people to make her work nor
“As much as it is used by students of the Applied Music Program, it is available for all students on campus to use for free,” Palmer said. “We make sure there are tutors around for anyone who needs help.” Some students who have gone to do research, study, or practice for music classes are stunned by the service offered in the Music Library. “I was so shocked when I found out that I could download
audio recordings and practice my voice here,” Masood Mokhils, 18, music major said. Although the Music Library may offer much more music-related material to students compared to other colleges in the state, some think it still needs improvement. “It is an amazing resource for music students,” Ivan Alcantar, 19, music major, said. “But I think it needs a selection of music.”
While there are some students who weren’t aware of the Music Library, those with a slight interest in music are given a possible opportunity to take advantage of the resource, Palmer said. “I feel that a lot of those on campus do not realize what they have here at EC,” Palmer said. “Most schools don’t have Music Libraries at all.”
SPORTS
March 8, 2012
ON DECK Ian Schmidt
MEN’S AND WOMEN’S TRACK AND FIELD Saturday at 10 a.m. Cal State Long Beach Invite
WOMEN’S TENNIS Today at 2 p.m. at Mt. San Antonio Tuesday at 2 p.m. at EC vs. Cerritos
MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SWIMMING/DIVING Fri – Sat all day at Cuesta Invitational
BASEBALL Today at 2 p.m. at EC vs. East LA Saturday at noon at CSLA vs. East LA
SOFTBALL Today at 2 p.m. at EC vs. Pasadena
El Camino College Union 7
Warriors take on double dual Santina Wolfe News Editor
With so many athletes sick last week, the Warriors couldn’t quite pull off a victory in Pasadena last Friday. The men’s swim team lost to Pasadena City College 170-90 and to Chaffey College 204-72. The women’s swim team lost to Pasadena City College 156-75 and to Chaffey College 218-44. “We have been training really hard,” Corey Stanbury, men’s and women’s swimming and diving coach said. “During practice they swim about seven thousand yards in two hours.” Stanbury added that it has been hard keeping everyone on track with so many people being ill. Feb. 24-25, the Warriors went to an Invitational at Mt. San Antonio College where there were several teams and about 700 athletes. “There were a lot of good swims, some life time bests for some of our swimmers,” Stanbury said. The Invitational at Mt. Sac was very tiring, with each day lasting about 12 hours, Stan-
bury said. Even though the Warriors didn’t win at the double dual meet in Pasadena last Friday, some of the swimmers still placed well in their events. Sophomore Brandon Gregory placed third in the 1,000yard free relay, 11:13.79, and second in the 500-yard free relay, 5:30.73. Freshman Sean Bartlett placed seventh in the 1,000yard free relay, 11:54.61, and fifth in the 100-yard backstroke, 1:09.49. Freshmen Erica Bender placed second in the 200-yard free relay, 2:10.67, and third in the 100-yard free relay, 59.93. Bender, freshmen Karina Vint, sophomore Shanese Douglas and freshmen Alexis Solaro, placed third for the women’s 400-yard free relay,4:19.36. Vint placed third in both the 100-yard butterfly, 1:11.40, and the 50-yard butterfly, 32.53. Freshman Stephen Sorbom placed third in the 200-yard free, 1:56.45, and fifth in the 100-yard free relay, 53.66. Candice Criss/Union The swimming and diving team listen to instructions from Vincent Fiamengo, assistant coach, during practice.
Men’s Tennis team gain a victory Softball team loses to LA Harbor Edwin Arredondo Staff Writer With a 7-2 win against Cerritos College on Feb 28, the men’s tennis team improves its record. Although the Warriors did not have great first sets, they warmed up for the second sets and demonstrated their talent, making them win four out of six singles games. “They showed a strong mentality,” Steven Van Kanegan, coach said. “Sometimes they just want
to do too much,” Van Kanegan said. This was a significant victory for Tomoaki Takatsu, freshman, who won both of his sets (6-3) (6-0). Performances like that one are what Van Kanegan says he wants to see from his players. “I have to work really hard to get to the top six,” Takatsu said. He added that the team’s goals come before his personal goals. Andrew Sarawasi, sophomore, played a difficult game in
which he lost the first set (4-6), but came back for the second set (7-5) finally taking the victory in the third set (10-6). This is the second victory in a row for the men’s tennis team. Jonathan Cipiti, sophomore, lost his game, but said that he noticed an improvement between this game and the last one against Orange College. The Warriors will be competing against Cerritos College again on Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Cerritos.
Eva Ziss-Patton Staff Writer Competing against L.A. Harbor College, the Warriors walked away with a 6-0 loss on Tuesday, Feb. 28. In the bottom of the sixth inning, Yasmin Antonio, outfielder, stepped up to bat. Antonio made a huge play when she hit the ball to right centerfield to score a double. Kendall Roles, outfielder, hit a fastball toward third base. It bounced out of the opponent’s glove, giving Antonio the op-
portunity to advance to third, while Roles made a double. Jacklyn Peyrefitte, third baseman, hit a groundball to short. Roles, between second and third, was called out for interfering with the defender, thus ending the sixth inning. “I felt disappointed because I knew that’s not what we were,” Peyrefitte said. The Warriors have had a good season, with “big wins against good teams,” Elaine Martinez, coach, said. Now the Warriors need to
focus on beginning the game with the same fight they exhibited at the end of the game, Melissa Sanchez, assistant coach, said. “It takes a couple innings for us to get going and that’s been our downfall,” she said. The Warriors have not let this defeat get in their way, and they maintain a passion for the game. “Heart is something we can’t teach them. Heart is something that they have to find, and they’ve found it.” Sanchez said.
SPORTS
8 El Camino College Union
March 8, 2012
Warriors place in Beach Classic Aryn Hicks Staff Writer
Vanessa Adams/ Union Clayton Mingo sprints around the bend in the men’s 200-meter race with a final time of 24.39 during the Beach Classic.
The Warriors battled some of the best universities and community colleges during the Cal State Long Beach Invitational on Saturday. The Long Beach Invitational was held at Cerritos College. The competition included Mt. San Antonio, Orange Coast, Long Beach City, Cerritos College, USC, Cal Poly Pamona, Cal State Long Beach State and Cal State Dominquez Hills. This meet was the first for a lot of newcomers to compete with top competitors, Dean Lofgren, coach, said. “It’s a great opportunity to compete against high-level competitors and high-level people,” Lofgren said. The Warriors placed in most of the events during the Beach Classic. Defending state champion of the triple jump, Rukayah Bent- Mikail, sophomore, placed 2nd overall, and first among the junior colleges, in the Triple Jump with her 38-11 ½ mark. Salina Rapiti, sophomore, finished third overall in the shot put with a distance of 40-1 3/4. The women’s 400-meter relay, which includ-
ed Ruby Davis, Araya Dixon, Isis Garland and Ronisha Vallery, ran a solid 48.72 for fifth overall and second among junior colleges. The men’s 400-meter relay ran a season best at 42.97. Distance runner David Rosales, freshman, ran a personal best: 4:00.23 for 11th overall with sophomore teammates Anthony Lewis also running a personal best: 4:04.07 and Victor Martin placing fifth overall and second among junior colleges in the shot put, as well as a new personal best 49-11. The program has had success off the field as well with most of the team members transferring or getting a degree, Lofgren said. “This is a progressive training program, there is always seasonal development,” Lofgren said. They all cheer each other on when they are not doing an event, and even in practice, Lofgren said. “I like being part of a group and being together,” Julissa Vaca, runner, said. “I like meeting the girls and racing against the competition,” Brailon Brown, runner, said. The Warriors will be competing at CSU Fullerton on Saturday, March 10 at 10 a.m.
Men’s Volleyball team get big win
Baseball team get two straight wins
Ian Schmidt Staff Writer
Jorge Maldonado Staff Writer
With a 3-2 score, the men’s volleyball team took the win against Moorpark College on March 2. Their strategy going into the game was simply to win, Richard Blount, coach, said. “We had a very confident mindset after the last few wins, and even more so now. A win on the road is always a hard thing to accomplish,” Blount said. The starting lineup consisted of Hunter Hovland, Ri-
ley Theunissen, Keven Burrell, Dustin Ihde, Joseph Tanuvasa, Trevor Butler and Brandon Hiehle. The bench is really coming through this season as well, and that’s one of the team’s biggest strengths, Blount said. Another of the Warrior’s strengths is having Burrell, middle blocker, at the net. “He puts more pressure on the other team’s hitters and setters,” Blount said. Burrell had 9 kills out of 18 attacks, and 15 blocks during the game. Hovland made a huge im-
pact on the game with 20 kills out of 42 attacks, and 4 blocks. Butler helped with 44 assists. Blount is not afraid to address the team’s weaknesses. “Now and then we’ll miss the serve and they’ll go on a 3 or 4 point run. This is something you’ll see on every team at some point,” Blount said. “Our guys are in pretty good shape, and their minds are strong,” Blount said. The Warriors are set to play on Wednesday, March 14 against Santa Barbara at 6 p.m.
Earning a back-to-back blowout of the season, Santa Barbara College failed to come close to the Warriors on Feb. 28. The Warriors’ victory gave the men a win-loss record of 10-2. The team’s pitching is one of its strengths, Austin Watters, catcher, said. Alex Mistulof, pitcher, currently has an innings pitch score of 29 with 25 total strikeouts.
In the first two innings, the Warriors led 1-0. “If we’re not putting up runs right away, (pitching) gives us an opportunity to put runs on the board,” Sean Isaac, pitcher and first baseman, added. Cole Trezek, pitcher, and Watters led with most RBIs at three each, adding to the team’s total RBI’s of 16. During the sixth inning, the Warriors got an extra seven runs. At the end of the ninth inning, the Warriors led with a score of 17-4, 18 hits and three errors. The Warriors played Santa
Barbara on March 1 earning their 11th win of the season with a score of 7-2. “Alex Mistulof went six innings, scattered some hits, but only gave up two runs,” Isaac said. The last two wins against SBCC are the last games before the Warriors begin the South Coast Conference. The Warriors lead 11-2 over seven other teams in the South Coast division. Winning the conference championship is a goal Nate Fernley, coach, said the team will hope to accomplish this year.