Warrior Life Spring / Summer 2018
El Camino College’s General Interest Magazine
coffee shops
burgers
Yo u n g m a n
churros
with elderly woman and they create an
sports bars
NEAR
EL CAMINO
moves in
unbreakable
bond
Personal trainer works to lose weight and
accept himself
Heartbreak and heartache
fuels musician’s
unique sound
CONTENTS On Campus
Acting and Activism ............................................. 50
Skills, Hobbies & Music
Passing of the Torch ............................................. 21
Up-and-coming actress Fredonia Dexter uses her voice to help create a club that acts as a space dedicated to supporting and empowering the women of El Camino.
Check out our website to read this story on history professor Arthur Verge who is a retired llifeguard and now trains El Camino students to become the lifeguards of tomorrow.
Campus at Night .................................................. 61
Pink Parlor ........................................................... 13
See the campus in a whole new light, at night, in this photo essay that shows the campus after dark.
The Custodian and the Groundskeeper ................ 9
Next time you see a clean bathroom or a spotless floor, you have Fernando and Rocio Vicente to thank. They are two of the college’s custodians who ensure that El Camino is clean each day and night.
El Camino’s Production Manager ........................ 54
Kaelin Francisco finds that there is an alarming lack of fashionable plus-sized clothing to purchase, so she channels her frustration into creating a fashionable and affordable plus-sized clothing line while she works as a piercer.
Professor visits 100 countries .............................. 15
Professor Kurt Hull knows a thing or two about traveling. After visiting 100 countries (and counting), Hull tells Warrior Life his top 10 tips for traveling on a budget.
Nancy Adler takes Warrior Life behind the scenes of not only what goes on backstage of a live production on campus, but her career that lead her to her current position.
The Craft ............................................................... 46
El Camino’s Super Hero ....................................... 32
Top 5 Record Shops .............................................. 20
EMT Professor Ryan Carey may not save lives in the field like he used to, but now uses his expertise to teach El Camino students how to be successful as paramedics and firefighters.
Cover Story
Giving it Everything She’s Got (35) Even with the uncertainty of success in the music world and the insecurities that the industry may bring, singer/songwriter Analiz Castillo uses the art to channel her emotions in a constructive and creative way. 2
Join automotive technology instructor Edward Matykiewicz as he tells Warrior Life about his fascination with craft beer.
Take some time off from studying to check out Warrior Life’s picks for the top five record shops near El Camino.
Q&As
Beyond the Campus
Go Figure .................................................... 12
Freedom in the form of a Golden Retriever ......... 23
skaters to follow in her footsteps.
Finding Wendy ...................................................... 57
Angel Sarkisova may have left her ice skating days behind, but that doesn’t stop her from preparing the next generation of ice
A New Home ................................................ 29
Political science professor Eduardo Munoz flees Nicaragua at 14 in the midst of a civil war. While it was difficult for him to leave his home, he has been able to create a new life and prosper in the United States.
Student shares the ins and outs of having a service dog.
Woman finds her identity and a thriving life after being trapped in an abusive relationship.
An Unbreakable Bond ........................................... 64
El Camino student Hunter Elam moves from a small town in Virginia to the South Bay, where he finds friendship in the unlikeliest of places - with an elderly woman named Helene.
Fashion Business Woman ............................... 43
Meet the fashion professor that not only teaches fashion classes at El Camino, but also has her own clothing line, a wedding service, is a marriage counselor and not to mention a published author.
Sports & Fitness
Taking Back Control One Pound at a Time ........... 5
Read about a student who shares his road to losing massive amounts of weight and now works as a personal trainer, helping others to do the same.
One Goal in Mind .................................................. 16
Whether it be helping to support his mother and brothers or keeping his grades up in order to transfer to UC Sata Cruz, Omar Solano uses soccer as a way to escape the stresses of everyday life.
Top 4 Gyms ........................................................... 44
Take some time to take a break off of school and check out these top four gyms around El Camino that have student-friendly offers or discounts.
Food & Drink
5 Burgers Within 5 Miles ........................................ 8
Craving a burger? Here are Warrior Life’s top five picks for the best burgers found within five miles of El Camino.
Cinco Cheers for Churros ..................................... 31
Cupcakes, move over. It’s churros’ time to shiine. Join Warrior Life as we traipse around the south Bay to find the top five best churros.
Top 5 Sports Bars .................................................. 56
Catch the lastest game or grab a beer with friends at one of these top five sports bars near El Camino.
Indie Coffee Shops near El Camino ...................... 60
Explore four coffee shops near El Camino that will warm your soul and body.
(23) 3
STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS* WRITERS
(staff) Alexa Mancilla | Email: alexadanielle98@gmail.com (staff) Justin Traylor | Email: justintraylor16@gmail.com (staff) Kailiokalani Davison | Email: kaili.davison@yahoo.com (staff) Kaylynn Myles | Email: kaylynnsmyles@gmail.com (staff) Leopoldo Navarro | Email: polokira3@gmail.com (staff) Melanie Chacon | Email: m.rosechacon@gmail.com (contributor) Michelle Ohia | Email: myraohia@gmail.com (staff) Patrick Quintero | Email: pctquintero415@yahoo.com (staff) Ryan Guitare | Email: Ryan.Guitare21@gmail.com (staff) Sarah Desmond | Email: sarahidesmond@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS (staff) Alexa Mancilla | Email: alexadanielle98@gmail.com (contributor) Darwyn Samayoa | Email: dsam_93@yahoo.com (contributor) David Gonzalez | Email: davidgonzalezlogan@gmail.com (contributor) Jack Kan | Email: muhazi@cox.net (contributor) Jaimie Woods | Email: jaimie_woods@elcamino.edu (contributor) Jorge Villa | Email: jorgevilla@gmail.com (staff) Justin Traylor | Email: justintraylor16@gmail.com (staff) Kailiokalani Davison | Email: kaili.davison@yahoo.com (contributor) Mari Inagaki | Email: shinriw7@tahoo.co.jp (contributor) Miyung Kim | Email: miyon34@hotmail.com (staff) Ryan Guitare | Email: Ryan.Guitare21@gmail.com (staff) Sarah Desmond | Email: sarahidesmond@gmail.com
EDITORIAL STAFF Assistant Editor: Kaylynn Myles | Email: kaylynnsmyles@gmail.com Photo Editor: Ryan Guitare | Email: Ryan.Guitare21@gmail.com Managing Editor: Alexa Mancilla| Email: alexadanielle98@gmail.com Editor-in-Chief: Sarah Desmond | Email: sarahidesmond@gmail.com
ADVISER Stefanie Frith | Email: sfrith@elcamino.edu *Staff refers to students who enrolled in the Journalism 9 magazine production course fall 2017 and spring 2018 who either stayed enrolled in the class till the end of the semester or till the published product. Contributors are students who were origrinally enrolled but did not stay enrolled. Contributers also refer to students from other journalism classes (particularly the advanced photography class). Warrior Life is a student produced magazine. This means that every part of this publication was either done by, directed by or at the very least decided by students. Two consistent assistance over the years include 1) Weber Printing Company Inc. who prints our maagzines, and 2) our advisor Stefanie Frith who is also the magazine production class’s assistant professor. To learn more about student-run publications, visit the Student Press Law Center’s website at www.splc.org.
FOLLOW US ON: Twitter: @ecwarriorlife Instgram: @ecwarriorlife Facebook: www.facebook/ecwarriorlife Check out our website: www.eccunion.com/ warrior-life-magazine/
3 Warrior Life Spring ‘18 4
ABOUT WARRIOR LIFE MAGAZINE & HOW to JOIN
W
arrior Life magazine is a general interest magazine that strives to showcase the diverse stories and individuals who make up El Camino College. This magazine is a student-run publication. If you are a student at El Camino and interested in being on staff for the spring/summer 2019 issue of Warrior Life, enroll in next semester’s Journalism 9 magazine production class for the 2018 fall semester or 2019 spring semester. Whether you are a student or not, if you would like to see where the magic happens, feel free to stop by the newsroom located in the Humanities Building, Room 113, and introduce yourself. We promise we don’t bite...unless it’s into free pizza. Which we often indulge in. See you around! E l C amino Journalism Depar tment: Contact: Stefanie Frith (310) 660-3593 x3327 sfrith@elcamino.edu Office: Humanities Building, Room 113A
Letter from the Editor Dear Reader, Finally, it’s here. Oh, yes, there were moments where fear struck me and I thought this magazine would never see daylight. Yet, here it is: 72 pages of blood, sweat and tears. If there is anything these pages represent, it’s the journey — the phases that take a person from one place to another and the changes that occur along the way. This is why I could not be more thrilled to have Analiz Castillo as our source for the cover story. She is a singer and songwriter whose lyrics put life and feeling into the journey. Whose lyrics itself tell a story; her personal journey. As you make your way through these pages, you will slide into the shoes of a weightloss trainer who once was overweight yet turned his life around. You will come to understand the positive and negative aspects of having a service dog. You will gain a newfound respect for custodians; the indiviuals who clean and keep this campus in shape. Along the ride, you will find yourself appreciating life altogether as young and old are juxtaposed in the bond between 23-year-old Hunter Elam and 95-year-old Helene Denton. When it comes to this year’s issue, I feel compelled to note that if there was one thing I could change, it would be the lack of representation of the many ethinicities, cultures, religions and preferences that make up our diverse campus and the United States as a whole. What you see in these pages is only a small portion of the many incredible people out there and the many incredible stories that are going untold. That being said, I am immensely grateful and pleased at how hard we here at Warrior Life worked to make this magazine what it is. It will always be a journey I will look back at fondly. I sincerely hope you enjoy this year’s issue of Warrior Life so much so that you share it with others.
Sarah Desmond Thank you,
THANK YOU NOTE:
As a Muslim, my gratitude sits first and foremost with God. All praise due to the Most High for all that He has granted me, such as the people He put into my life to make this magazine what it is. Grab some popcorn because this is going to sound like an Oscar acceptence speech. I’d like to first thank my parents, my seven brothers, and the rest of my family who were there for me since day one. They are everything to me and without their support, I’m not sure I could survive as an editor-in-chief. Second, I want to thank my adviser Ms. Stefanie who guided me and the staff through this process yet gave us the space to make our own decisions. Her strength and care are attributes that I strive to have. A big thank you goes out to the staff: Alexa, who stood by my side with her punctual and determined personality. She is the Andy Sachs to my Miranda Priestly. Justin, for his light teasing, hard work and growth of enthusiasm for this magazine. Kaili, who brought a sense of focus and calm to the room. Kaylynn, who’s undeniable creativity shines through the photos she has directed. Leo, for his kind demeanor and perseverence. Melanie, who took initiative, sought direction and wasn’t afraid to ask questions. Pat, who made us laugh and was a trooper when his story on a truck-driving ballerina fell through. Last but not least, Ryan, who’s had us let out a giggle or two and rolling our eyes many times. Nonetheless, he is a fantastic storyteller and gets his work done. I am extremely proud of my staff, many of whom juggled work and classes, sacraficing at times other obligations for the sake of this magazine.
I want to thank all the contributers, many of whom produced the incredible photos that really made this magazine aesthetically what it is. A special thanks goes out to journalism student Emma DiMaggio, who patiently helped me with technical problems I encountered with the designing software we use. I am forever grateful to Weber Printing Company Inc. and Bob Ruiz who worked diligently and patiently with us. In addition, I want to thank everyone in the Journalism Department and the Humanities Division, who behind the scences make sure we journalism students can exercise our rights. I also want to thank the administration who grants us the budget to produce these 72 pages. And to any other departments or faculty across the campus who have assisted us in one way or another. Las but not least, a humongous thank you to the sources who allowed us into their lives, trusted us to tell their stories and to take their pictures. Their vulnerabilty is one that I will admire for as long as I live But it doesn’t end here: I want to extend a thank you to YOU. To every single one of you, whoever you are, wherever you came from. If you’re holding this magazine in your hands and reading these words, browsing through these pages, know that we appreciate you and hold you in the highest regard. There is something to be said about a person who takes the time to read someone else’s work. It is rewarding for us writers and creators and makes us feel as if our time, effort and hard work has not gone to waste and is being appreciated. We hope that this issue brings you enjoyment and enlightenment. Now que the music to stop me from running my mouth.
5
Taking Back
Control One Pound
at A time
Personal trainer Jovan Newell had to struggle to take control over himself and lose the weight to reattain the body he once had Story by Kailiokalani Davison Photos by Jorge Villa
J
ovan Newell looked at his reflection in the mirror with disgust. His hips were falling out of his shorts. A protruding belly fell over his
hipbone, almost touching his thighs. Every part of him jiggled. He tried everything he could to achieve a temporary fix of the reflection he saw staring back at him. He attempted to stand taller. He tried sucking it in while holding everything together. But nothing worked. This was the first night Jovan decided to take back control over his life and get serious about fitness. Jovan was at his heaviest at 245 pounds and knew he had to lose weight. “The first step to losing weight is running,” he thought. That night, he quickly threw on red basketball shorts, a white tank top, and allwhite Air Force Ones. He began jogging down his neighborhood and decided to let the worst happen. His thighs started to rub together and jiggle. Cars drove by, whistling and honking their horns at him. This hurt his feelings, but he didn’t let that stop him. It made him want to push harder. And so he did. Now, the 31-year-old, 5’10” African American man weighs 189 pounds. His taught muscular physique suggests a rigorous workout regimen. One also cannot help but notice his contagious smile from a mile away and his
6
Jovan shows off his tattoo and toned muscles while standing behind a fence at Alondra Park. friendly demeanor that puts one at ease as if he was an old familiar friend. Which is no surprise because Jovan grew up with five other sisters, so he always had more personality than most Jovan says. He now lives in Los Angeles and is pursuing a degree in sports psychology at El Camino with hopes to transfer to California State University Long Beach. Jovan balances being a full-time dad, personal trainer, and part-time student with the help of Jesus Christ, strong time management, and allowing himself room to grow he says. He prides himself on not quitting when things get tough. But there were definitely some
“The biggest step to losing weight is getting over the fear,” Jovan says. struggles he had to go through in order to find this balance. “There were six kids, two adults, and there just wasn’t an abundance of food. My mom would take us to Arby’s and get five roast beefs, hand them all out, and hope everyone gets fed,” Jovan says. Since there were eight people to feed, money was tight for his family. Jovan also struggled in school as a child. He
received his first two Fs in the sixth grade and started skipping class in the seventh grade. This led up to him getting expelled from Narbonne High School during his freshman year. As a result of being expelled, he began homeschooling, but still lacked the discipline of doing his school work during the day. He became bored and needed something to do with his time. He picked up his dad’s weights one day and started lifting on a regular basis. Once he began working out with his friends, he noticed that he was stronger than everyone else. “That’s what kicked it into gear,” Jovan says. Later on, Jovan got married at 21. Things were working for him until he and his wife starting overeating and making unhealthy food choices. It was during his marital years that his physical fitness regime and goals came crashing down. While they were married, Jovan’s then wife attended a culinary school and became an excellent cook. They both lacked the discipline for eating healthy with moderate portions, so they quickly packed on the pounds. Jovan was unhappy with his weight and physical appearance and became discouraged and stopped working out. He had gained 60 pounds within six to eight months. His despair continued and eventually manifested itself in an extra-marital affair that brought his marriage to an end. Still, Jovan kept pushing. Today, Jovan is a certified personal trainer
at 24 Hour Fitness in Carson. He is currently training multiple clients and instructing classes, such as boxing boot camp and “Booty Blast”. You can find his fun and energetic workout classes posted by searching his Instagram handle: @personaltrainer_j_. “Ok Yvonne, you ready to get this workout in?” Jovan says. “Yes. Yes, I am,” Yvonne says enthusiastically as she smiles. “Ok, you know what to do. Let’s start off with some stretches,” Jovan says to her. Jovan demonstrates by pulling one arm across his chest while the other arm holds it in place. “Stretch out those arms. We’re about to work them out hard,” Jovan says. Yvonne copies his exact move. Jovan then pulls out a stopwatch and begins to time her stretches. “Okay 3, 2,1... other arm,” Jovan guides her. Yvonne Conerly, 56, is a social worker that started training with Jovan four months ago. “My body has toned up and I’m starting to build more muscle. I lost two inches in each thigh and my clothes are fitting different,” Yvonne says. Behind the improvement, Yvonne has a history of tendonitis, a severe muscle condition. However, ever since she bagn training with
“My body has toned up and I’m starting to build more muscle. I lost two inches in each thigh and my clothes are fitting different,” Yvonne Conerly, who started training with Jovan four months ago, says. Jovan, she hasn’t had any injuries. Yvonne says that Jovan wasn’t familiar with tendonitis at first. Once she told him about it, he researched the condition so he wouldn’t put her in a dangerous situation during workouts. In addition, she says he is patient, yet firm with her. Jovan wants to help other people achieve their fitness goals. He enjoys seeing his clients accomplish their goals in reaching their desired
body shape. “He can use his weight loss journey to be an example for others and his clients. To be a personal trainer you have to cater to other people’s quirks,” USC associate professor of kinesiology Robert Girandola says. “When I was bigger, if you would have told me I would look like this, I would say that you were lying,” Jovan says. He only thought celebrities could look good because they have the money and access to the best trainers and dietitians in the world. Jovan feels that if he can transform his body, then anyone can. He used to be scared of people seeing him workout because he wasn’t where he wanted to be. “The biggest step to losing weight is getting over the fear,” Jovan says. Jovan got over that fear the first night he looked at his reflection in the mirror and decided to take back control over his life. And now, Jovan looks at his reflection in the mirror with confidence. With his chest high and arms bulged and chiseled not to mention toned abs with rock hard legs to match, every part of him has muscle. Jovan stands tall and flexes. “Would you just look at those legs,” he says.
Jovan stares intently in the mirror as he pushes himself to continue dooing weight-lifting reps at 24-Hour Fitness Gym in Carson.
7
Jovan and Yvonne work to lose weight and get toned at 24-Hour Fitness Gym in Carson.
7 Warrior Life Spring ‘18 8
Top5 Re c o rd Shops
Top five independent record shops in the South Bay and Los Angeles area that sell vintage records
1
Story by Patrick Quintero Photo by Justin Traylor
I
t’s no surprise that college is one of the main factors of stress for many individuals, and many find that music is the perfect stress reliever. Music is also a common form of creative exprssion and listening to it is a universal activity. Here we give you the top five record shops in the South Bay that sell vintage records. You can explore them, relax and shop at reasonable prices as well as find music that helps you express you.
1
) DUDLEY’S VINTAGE VINYL RECORD SHOP
Dudley’s boasts a variety of new CDs, vinyl albums, cassette tapes, posters, t-shirts, and other collectibles from any genre of music, especially rock music from the ‘50s - ‘80s. They only provide new and sealed mint-condition albums as well as friendly customer service with a knowledgeable and chill vibe from the owner, Bill Dudley, himself. Dudley’s is only 5 miles away from El Camino College. Address: 4633 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503. (5.6 mi.) Hours: open Monday - Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday: closed. Contact: (831) 228-3170
2
) SOUNDSATIONS RECORDS
Located in Westchester since the 1970’s, Soundsations records introduces all kinds of genres to listeners new and old, and provides
new and used CD’s, DVD’s, vinyl, band t-shirts at a decent price. Even though it’s 9 miles away from El Camino, students can get a 10% discount with a valid student ID. Price matching is also offered; if you find a cheaper price for one of their products anywhere else, they will match it, no questions asked. Excellent customer service follows you throughout the store. Address: 8701 La Tijera Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045 (9.5 mi.) Hours: open Monday - Sunday from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Contact: (310) 641-8877
3
) PM SOUNDS
PM Sounds is the perfect record shop to find the best and most obscure albums. From the 1940’s classics to today’s jazz, the manager, Erv, is prepared to help customers find any piece of music. Students get a 10% discount with a valid school ID and on holidays customers can get up to 15% off jazz vinyls. PM Sounds boasts some of the sharpest sounding vinyls. True jazz enthusiasts will find immediate comfort in the store, especially with Erv’s vast knowledge of jazz music. PM Sounds is only 4 miles away from El Camino. Address: 1115 Satori Ave., Torrance, CA 90505 (4.7 mi.) Hours: open Tuesday - Saturday: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday - Monday: closed. Contact: (310) 787-8200
4
) RECORD RECYCLER
Record Recycler boasts vinyl’s from any genre, ranging from $1 - $19.99. However, most vinyls sell for only $5.99. Record Recycler specializes in classic rock, country, folk, blues, jazz, and rap vinyls. The shop is only 1 mile away from El Camino. Address: 17312 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90504 (1.6 mi.) Hours: open Tuesday - Saturday from 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday and Monday: closed. Contact: (310) 704-2320
5
) TOXIC TOAST RECORDS
Within 15 miles away from El Camino College is Toxic Toast Records in Long Beach. This record shop is known to have a vast variety of the most underground, obscure, and independent bands from heavy metal, punk, ska, psychobilly, to surf rock and vinyl imported from the U.K. and Japan. All of the vinyls are in excellent condition with their original year pressing on the album and with decent prices. T-shirts, DVD’s, buttons, and record players are also sold at the shop. Address: 757 Pine Ave., Long Beach, CA 90893 (14.6 mi.) Hours: open Tuesday - Saturday from 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.; Sunday and Monday: closed. Contact: (562) 999-2516
9
Custodian
THE
AND THE
Groundskeeper Married couple tend the grounds of El Camino keeping it in shape and clean for students and faculty
Story by Leopoldo Navarro Photos by Miyung Kim and Mari Inagaki
R
ough, calloused hands wrap their digits along the wheel of an azure golf cart. As it breezes by and its revving engine gets louder, a grey ponytail can be seen flowing out from the back of the cart. The person to whom it belongs is wearing a dark blue uniform, tinted glasses, and a black, fitted hat. The ends of his pants are stained with dirt, and an assortment of tools can be seen rocking back and forth on the cart. The driver of the cart is Gardena resident Fernando Vicente, 56, who is Groundskeeper 1 at El Camino College. Like every day, the Oaxaca, Mexico native is on his way to the Life Science building, the area to which he has been assigned. “We’re all assigned an area independently,” Fernando says. The custodian and staff are all in charge of a specific section on campus and must maintain that area until the end of the day. Then, the night custodians take over. The areas, however, vary in terms of workload. Some custodial staff members are assigned a larger or more difficult section to tend to. “Everybody has a run, a particular area. I don’t feel they’re distributed easily. Some of them have easy runs. For me? It’s huge,”
10
Fernando says. “They hired a new guy two weeks ago. He does all the cleaning around [the Life Science area] there now. Before that, I spent 66 percent of the day cleaning, weeding and trimming mainly the north side of the Cafe Camino,” Fernando says. “So that’s going to give me a lot
“I had come from Mexico with a degree in design, but it didn’t mean much here,” Rocio says in Spanish. “I can speak English, but I’m much more comfortable with Spanish.” more time to concentrate on gardening. I just like to do more gardening.” His love for gardening first started when he was attending Gardena High School. “I took a vocational agriculture class and I really liked it. In my senior year, a student owned a nursery in Oregon and asked the teacher if anyone was interested in working in it. I said ‘yeah, sure’,” Fernando says. He went out for the summer to learn how to bud trees, then went to Pierce College. During his first semester, he wanted to major in fruit science but later dropped out to work.
Fernando had started his own gardening business, Pro-Verde Grounds Maintenance, 20 years before applying for a job at El Camino. He and his team worked around the clock to do the same basic gardening -- trimming, weeding, and maintaining -- that he is doing now. “I worked all through the South Bay to San Pedro,” Fernando says. In 1996, Fernando left the business and sought out several different jobs. “I applied to [work at] Cal State Long Beach, Pasadena… When I applied [to El Camino] I wasn’t really looking. I really only applied here on a whim,” Fernando says with a light chuckle. When he first started working, he was assigned to the old Administration building before being sent to the athletic area where he was in charge of both the baseball and softball fields when they had a garden in 1997. It was not until 2008 that he encouraged his wife, María de Rocio Vicente, 50, to work for El Camino College as a custodian. She is from Mexico City, Mexico and came to the United States later in her adult life. She wears tinted glasses and has straight black hair that goes past her shoulders. The navy blue uniform she wears is labeled “FPS Division” on its upper-left chest pocket. Fernando and Rocio have been married for 25 years and had recently had a church
She says the custodians who work at night are more pressured to clean up after everyone. “They do everything,” Rocio says. The night custodians are in charge of more than one specific area and have to constantly rotate around campus. The workload has been too much in the past, for both the daytime custodians and the nighttime custodians, she says. Fernando says he has had trouble with management in the past, saying that sometimes there was too big of a workload for him. “The hardest part of my day is when I have to blow down [leaves]. I have to carry a backpack that weighs 25 pounds. And when I blow the leaves it takes around an hour and fifteen minutes. That’s the hardest part, physically,” Fernando says. He says that he has had to stand up for his rights in the past because of problems he had with the workload he was given, but what he does now is just fine to him.
Rocio puts on gloves as she prepares to clean the women’s restroom in the Humanities building. Photo by Mari Inagaki.
wedding on Saturday, March 11. They have three daughters. Cynthia, 27; Nightsky, 20; and Newbiae, 16. Nightsky attends El Camino College, but Fernando says she has chosen to keep her major a secret from him and Rocio.
The frustration that Fernando says he has is the feeling that managers don’t want to deal with anything. He says they would rather avoid a particular problem so they don’t have to deal with it and he believes this is true for the staff campus-wide.
Fernando drives his golf cart to the Life Science building, where he is expected to clean the building from top to bottom each day. Photo by Miyung Kim.
In contrast to her husband, who came to the United States in December of 1974 from Mexico City at the age of 13 and was able to learn English through the public school system, Rocio says she has always struggled with English. “I had come from Mexico with a degree in design, but it didn’t mean much here,” Rocio says in Spanish. “I can speak English, but I’m much more comfortable with Spanish.” Rocio wants to learn English in the summer and her motivation to do so stems from wanting to understand her daughters and her coworkers. She often feels out of the loop during meetings as well. She and three other custodians rotate around campus to clean specific parts of the seven main buildings. Rocio’s job is to clean the women’s bathroom in each building. “It takes around two hours to clean them all. Sometimes longer if the restrooms are full. Sometimes it takes up to two hours on one building alone,” Rocio says.
11
Rocio and Fernando drive in tandem in the vehicles that make trips across campus easy and quick. Photo by Miyung Kim.
Fernando and Rocio stare lovingly into each others’ eyes as they are reminded of their love for each other. Photo by Miyung Kim.
12
GO FIGURE
Put on your ice skates as you read about former ice skating competitor-turned-instructor, Angel Sarkisova, as she recalls Story and photos by Justin Traylor her time competing (and winning) in national circuts
A
ngel Sarkisova skids across the ice of the hockey rink, her long brown hair flying behind her. The 20-yearold communications major has been skating since she was 6 years old. She has competed in the U.S. Junior National Championships and earned a gold medal status in the highest level possible for the senior ladies division. Although Angel has stopped competing, she has become an instructor for the sport that she loves and realizes that this is her calling. Angel is currently working at the Lakewood Rinks while also being a full-time student at El Camino.
“I want to create a community within our generation
that appreciates
(ice skating) just as much as I do.” Angel says. Staff Writer (SW): How did you get into teaching? Angel: “When I was younger and still competing myself, I used to volunteer at my local rink by helping out with skating classes and assisting other coaches during their instruction. I fell in love with teaching kids to learn to skate, just as I once did, I told myself when I was done competing that I would start coaching. That’s how I first got involved. When I finally did retire from competition, I started teaching full time and have been coaching ever since.” SW: What is the biggest difficulty in teaching kids to skate? Angel: “The most difficult part of my job is getting students and parents to understand that learning a new skill takes patience, hard work, and consistency in practice. Learning a new skill can be discouraging at times, but my job as a coach is to make my students understand that process and [that] improvement is a lengthy one and its not always quick to come. Sometimes believing in yourself as a skater is the hardest part. My job is to make students believe in themselves first and foremost.” SW: Did you ever compete? Angel: “Yes. I have been competing since I was 6 years old. I started with local recreational competitions and from there went on to compete
Ice skater and instructor Angel Sarkisova glides across the ice as she shows young skaters the basics of ice skating. nationally throughout my career. My highest achieving performance has been placing fifth at the 2008 U.S, Junior National Championships held in Lake Placid, New York. I retired after competing at the highest level, Senior Ladies. I have achieved gold medal status in both Senior ‘Moves in the Field’ and ‘Freeskate’ categories.” SW: How do you balance work with school? Angel: “Balancing work and school are hard. My days start early in the mornings being in school full time, followed by work for the majority of the day, and then a few hours in the evening for either studying, or maintaining a social life. The hardest part of having a busy lifestyle for me is time management. When balancing social life, work, and other activities that you want to include in your day to day life, you start to battle things like fatigue and being mentally drained. The most important thing I remind myself is that the efforts and struggles you put yourself though now, will help you reap
rewards later.” SW: What do you get out of your job? Angel: “What I appreciate most about my job is the sense of fulfillment I got when teaching my passion. I look forward to the days I get to teach at the rink, and it makes me happy to know I am passing down my knowledge and wisdom to the next generation of skaters. I love teaching all the ages and levels.” SW: What are your plans for the future? Angel: “My plans for the future are to encourage more individuals to try ice sports! Whether it be ice hockey or figure skating, my job is to get ice sports more exposure, and my goal is to have as many individuals try it as (much as) possible. There are so many benefits to ice sports, and I want to create a community within our generation that appreciates it just as much as I do.”
13
Pink Parlor
Student star ts plus-size line while
wo r k i n g a s a
body piercer
Kaelin’s trusty pink box that she uses to hold her piercing supplies at Liberty Tattoo and Body Piercing in Gardena.
Story by Kaylynn Myles Photos by Darwyn Samoya
V
ibrant sample sketches coat both sides of the wall. A natural shade of light bamboo conceals the floor. There, an African-American woman with a septum piercing, unbuttoned red plaid shirt, and black tee shirt stands. She has on a pair of dark denim jeans and wears her hair in big curls that softly frame her face. Her eyelids are painted with black eyeliner, creating a cat eye that make her brown eyes pop. Bold, pink, matte lipstick coats her lips that outlines a welcoming smile. Her office is no typical college student’s office. Red on the middle wall, white on the left and right. The main attraction is the huge, black leather seat. This is where many customers get jabbed with piercing needles and ornamented with body rings. Kaelin Francisco, 28, is a sociology and fashion design major who attends El Camino College. She is also is a body piercer at Liberty Tattoo and Body Piercing in Gardena, just a five-minute walk from El Camino on Crenshaw Boulevard. In addition she, is starting a plus size line called “Pink Parlor.” The name of her line was inspired by the pink toolbox she’s had since the beginning of her piercing career. “Since I’ve always been around guys, I had to have something that stood out. So no matter what shop I go to, I have my pink box,” Kaelin says. When she was 17, Kaelin began her piercing career at a mall kiosk called Piercing Pagoda. She was offered an apprenticeship when she
14
was 18 after a piercer messed up on Kaelin’s medusa piercing (a piercing between the nose and upper lip).
rip them, and recreate the clothing for herself.
It took her seven months to learn how to pierce in order for her to get her license. She learned how to pierce by doing three of the same piercings on her friends.
This was before more plus size options were available as they are now.
“I had to bring in three friends of each. Three friends to get a belly button, three friends to do tongue. First time ever. I couldn’t do anything on the public first,” Kaelin says.
“Since I’ve always been around guys, I had to have something that stood out. So no matter what shop I go to, I have my pink box,” Kaelin says. Kaelin’s first job was at a plus-size store called Torrid. She says the store was limited in the styles that plus-size women could wear. Being plus size herself, Kaelin didn’t like the options the store offered. The store sold mostly gothic clothing and there was always something she didn’t like about the fabric, colors, or design. She used to take some of their clothes, seam-
“This is way before Forever 21 put out plus size,” Kaelin says.
This inspired Kaelin at an early age to create a variety of styles for women who wore plussize clothing. She stopped creating her clothes for a while but ever since she got to El Camino, Kaelin has been working on creating plus-size clothing. “I have a few pieces of the collection put together,” Kaelin says. “I’m just kind of piecing stuff together because honestly going through school, I was just doing stuff for assignments [in fashion class] so I have stuff that doesn’t even really match or it’s not cohesive, yet.” She has created swimsuit cover-ups, skirts and bodysuits so far. She has also purchased fabric and plans on doing a plus-size swimwear line, cover-ups, and two outfits, as well. Her designs will be modeled in El Camino’s 36th annual fashion show. She is on the modeling and designer committee, which means that she sees all the pieces coming in and decides which model will look good in what has been made so far by the designers. “I’m trying to determine if I’m gonna do a two-piece jumpsuit type thing. I don’t know. I’m kind of nerve-wracked about making the pattern of it, making sure it fits right for the fashion show,” she says. Kaelin has had a few jobs previously that she
KAELIN’S FIVE MOST POPULAR PIERCINGS
1) SEPTUM
2) EAR CARTILAGE 3) NIPPLES 4) BELLYBUTTON Kaelin explains the piercing process in the shop hat she works at, Liberty Tattoo and Body Piercing in Gardena. didn’t like but has settled in at Liberty Piercing and Tattoo Shop. An artist from Liberty reached out to Kaelin on Instagram and told her that Liberty was hiring.
5) GENITALS Kaelin begins cutting fabric for her plus-sized clothing line in the fashion room in the ITech Building.
Kaelin will celebrate a year working at Liberty in May. Vitor Matera came to Liberty about three months after Kaelin. They have been working together for one year. “Kaelin? Best piercer ever,” Vitor says confidently. “She’s a good coworker.” Vitor is originally from Brazil and has been in the USA for two years now. He moved for a “new experience.” His English has improved since Kaelin has been teaching him. “Everyday, she does everything on this floor right here,” Vitor says. Kaelin works on her designs on the floor of the tattoo shop. She brings her sewing machine, lays her fabric out on the floor to sew and cut fabrics. Kaelin hopes to own a beauty studio that does body waxing modifications, piercings and own a plus size boutique. “Beauty to me is universal. It even comes from piercing. I have pierced people that have crooked noses and crooked body parts. Let alone if they’re big or small. I see beauty in everything,” says Kaelin. “I feel like everyone is beautiful, not to sound weird or cliche. You know what I mean? Everybody’s got something.”
15
To p 5 B u r g e r s within 5 Miles
Bite into these top five sensational burgers that you can grab on the go while staying within 5 miles of El Camino College Story and Photos by Ryan Guitare
I
t’s hard to turn down a good burger. Imagine you’re sitting in class daydreaming about food, making yourself hungry. Maybe you’re tired of food on campus, but don’t want to go too far. Maybe you don’t have much time before class to go grab a bite. If you’re craving burgers, here are five burger joints all within five miles of El Camino.
1
) BURGER CITY GRILL
Burger City Grill, also known as BCG, is where you can find the Santa Monica burger. The Santa Monica is a signature burger that comes with applewood smoked bacon, avocado, dill pickle chips, tomatoes, green leaf lettuce, red onions and BCG spread. They have a wide option of cheeses from which you can choose from. The Santa Monica is recommended with American cheese. Along with the burger, you also get french fries that are fried to perfection. The signature burgers cost $6.95 and for an extra 70 cents you can add a cheese of your choice, and for $3 you can add another patty to make your burger a double. The restaurant is clean and the burger is high-quality. Address: 3605 Artesia Blvd., Torrance, CA 90504 (1.6 mi.) Hours: open Sunday-Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Contact: (310)-819-8468
2
) STEVE’S CHARBROILED BURGER
Steve’s Charbroiled Burgers, established
2 16
3
1
in 1971, is a quick and easy place that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Steve’s has a California burger on their menu, served with shredded lettuce, tomato, bacon, avocado slices, onions and Steve’s special sauce. The burger is well-balanced and flavor-packed in every bite. For $9.50 you can get a full meal including the burger, fries and a drink. Address: 18202 Prairie Ave., Torrance, CA 90504 (2.5 mi.) Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Contact: (310)-542-9600
3
) RASCALS TERIYAKI GRILL
For $6.25, Rascals Teriyaki Grill offers the teri-chicken burger with avocado, with options of a white or wheat bun. The restaurant offers a lot of space and lots of tables. Known for their teriyaki dishes, Rascals put a flair on their teriyaki chicken by making it into burger form. The burger comes with a thick cut of chicken breast, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, thin slices of onions, avocado, mayo, and Rascals signature teriyaki sauce. The sweetness of the teriyaki sauce, along with the juiciness of the grilled chicken breast, pickles and onions really bring out the flavor of the burger. Address: 1540 W Artesia Blvd., Gardena, CA 90248 (2.7 mi.) Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday: CLOSED Contact: (310)-516-8814
4
) B&R’S OLD-FASHION BURGERS
family-owned restaurant since 1994, serving fries, shakes, burgers, and breakfast. The B&R burger has a 1/3 pound patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese, guacamole, onions, bacon, and ranch. The ranch dressing, along with the guacamole, adds a nice flair to the burger and the cheese was melted just right. Also included in the meal is a side of fries with B&R seasoning. The burger with fries and a strawberry lemonade will set you back $12. Address: 3512 W Rosecrans Ave., Hawthorne, CA 90250 (1.6 mi.) Hours: Monday-Saturday: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday: 7:30 a.m.-9p.m. Contact: (310)-679-4474
5
) SHAKE SHACK
For $9.50, Shake Shack offers a single cheeseburger and their famous crinkle cut fries that were crispy on the outside and fresh, soft and hot on the inside. Their Shakeburger consists of a bun, lettuce, tomato, patty, their special sauce, and cheese. In the first bite of the burger, you really get the hints of charbroiled flavor. Their atmosphere brings a modern feel with stools and high tables. The burgers are wrapped in paper which gives off the vibe of a retro 1950’s style burger, and their paper bags are rectangular which makes it looks as stylish as their burger. Address: 2171 Rosecrans Ave., El Segundo, CA 90245 (4.5 mi.) Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11a.m.-11 p.m. Contact: (424)-397-2170
B&R’s Old-Fashion Burgers has been a
4
5
ONE
GOAL IN
MIND
Student carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, and soccer helps him cope
Story by Melanie Chacon Photos by Jack Kan
Omar kicks a soccer ball as he shows off his undeniable soccer skills.
17
S
eated next to his father Omar Sr., a younger Omar, then just 10 years old, beamed at the thought of finally bringing his dad back home. But, as his uncle Miguel’s Lincoln pulled away from one of the many prisons that detained Omar Sr., for the past three years, an uncomfortable silence betrayed the joyous occasion. Omar, along with his dad, grandparents, uncle Miguel, aunt Maritza, and younger brother Jason, sat quietly as they continued onto the freeway to an unfamiliar destination. “He was released to us and we took him straight to the airport. I thought he was coming home, until he told me he had to go away (again),” Omar says. Omar Solano is a 21-year-old student at El Camino College and an avid soccer player. Born and raised in South Central, Los Angeles, life for Omar has not always been easy. Omar’s father was incarcerated when Omar was just seven years old, for reasons that he did not know. “I didn’t know what happened to him. I honestly didn’t understand it. I was just lost. I was stuck trying to figure out why he wouldn’t
come home at night,” Omar says. Unable to comprehend what had happened to his father, Omar and his younger brother Jason would stay up late waiting for their dad to get home from work, where they presumed he was all day and night.
“When I step on the field, I feel like I forget everything. All of the stress that I have on my back leaves. All I focus on is the ball. And the game.” Omar says. Eventually, Omar’s mother Rocio, explained to him that his father was imprisoned. Soon afterward, they began visiting him almost every weekend. Once Omar Sr., was released from prison
over three years later, he was deported to Mexico via jetliner that same day. Before Omar Sr., stepped onto the plane that would take him away from his family once again, he explained to 10-year-old Omar that he was very sorry. He told Omar that he was now “the man of the house,” as Omar recalls. “It was a lot of pressure for me...having to be responsible for everything,” Omar says. He was only a child, given the responsibilities of an adult. Expected to not only protect his single-mother and little brother, but take care of them as well. His brother now looked up to him as a “father-figure,” Omar says. Omar didn’t fully understand the hardships he faced until he was about 16. “There was a lot of responsibilities that landed on my shoulders, like getting a job, helping around the house, cleaning, making food for me and my little brother, walking him to school and picking him up, doing chores and helping him with his homework,” Omar explains. Without his father in the picture, the obligations that he had to his mother and brother left Omar feeling very frustrated. Soccer was a way for him to release his stress. Soccer distracted Omar from the anxieties he felt from not having his dad in his life.
Omar and his friend, Gustavo Rosales, share a laugh as they recall memories from their childhood.
18
Omar does an impressive kick as he maneuvers to get past the goalie in a soccer scrimmage.
“When I step on the soccer field, I feel like I forget everything. All the stress that I have on my back leaves. All I focus on is the ball. And the game,” Omar says. Despite growing up without his father, and navigating through the Los Angeles suburb notorious for the Watts Riots of 1965, Omar has stayed focused and driven. He credits his mom Rocio, his brother Jason, his teachers, his high school soccer coaches Flavio and Victor, and his favorite sport, soccer for keeping him on the right path. In high school, Omar made sure to get involved and stay on top of his studies. He knew that if he didn’t keep his grades up, he wouldn’t be allowed to play soccer. Already a member of Jordan High School’s Associated Student Body, Omar was elected class president his junior and senior year of high school. “Honestly, I feel like it was popularity,” Omar says coyly. “I knew everyone at Jordan. I would talk to all the students and interact with each grade at pep-rallies. I would get involved with everyone,” Omar says. It’s that same outgoing personality and friendly vibe that stood out to his friend, and goalkeeper, 21-year-old Gustavo Rosales.
“I had to think about my brother. He already lost a father, and an older brother? He would be alone. So he actually motivated me to do a lot of things. Stay focused. To stay on the right path. To make a path for him,” Omar says. “(Omar) didn’t like the fact that I was quiet. He got me out of my comfort zone and I liked that about him,” Gustavo says. Gustavo and Omar met at a school dance their senior year of high school where, coincidentally, Gustavo was on a blind date with Omar’s god-sister. The two bonded over their love of batman,
comic books, childhood shows, and of course, soccer. “We kind of grew up the same, only I understood that his background was different than mine,” Gustavo says. “When Omar first told me that when he was younger his dad got deported, I kind of see that as a struggle. I never went through something like that in my life. I can’t really imagine a life without my father,” Gustavo says. Knowing this brought Gustavo closer to Omar. He feels a “brotherly bond” with him. And now they support each other on and off the soccer field. Having the support of his friends, his teachers and his soccer coaches was a blessing for Omar. “They shaped me a lot. They showed me that without an education, I would end up in the streets,” Omar says. Omar knew many friends from high school that ended up pregnant or even worse, dead, “because they stopped going to school,” Omar says. He has lost friends due to gun violence, a hit-and-run, and overdose. Omar was helping these same friends come back to high school. “Once I heard what happened to them, it was devastating. It broke my heart. I tried so hard to help them come back (to school). I showed them
19
that actually, somebody does care about you,” Omar says. These unfortunate events showed Omar how easy it is to go down a dangerous path when not focused or not involved in sports and school activities. “I had to think about my brother. He already lost a father, and an older brother? He would be alone. So he actually motivated me to do a lot of things. Stay focused. To stay on the right path. To make a path for him,” Omar says. Omar had his brother in mind, and the words of his father from so long ago, when his mother Rocio lost both of her jobs his senior year of high school and the summer that followed. After getting accepted to multiple colleges such as, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, San Diego State University, and California State University, Northridge, and offered scholarships to all, Omar made the unselfish decision to stay home, get a job, and help provide for his family. “I was stressed. I was depressed because I really wanted to go to Pomona and San Diego State. But now that I’ve started (at ECC) I’ve opened up a portal to U.C. Santa Cruz, and so did my brother. He got a letter from (U.C. Santa Cruz) saying that as long as he keeps up his GPA, they will give him a full scholarship,” Omar says. Omar knows that this is his path now and it has already opened up new doors for him. He plans to double-major in social work and psychology and he is excited for his future. These days, you can find Omar and Gustavo on the soccer field at El Camino College playing the sport that has changed both of their lives. Dressed in a gray t-shirt and navy soccer shorts, Omar sports a stylish haircut, with a hard part and a clean low fade. His thick jetblack hair rests on the right side of his head. His Nike cleats kick up black rubber turf pellets as he volleys the ball between his feet, back and forth, left to right. He’s focused. He wipes the sweat from his brow with his shirt and stares daringly through the net as he sets up for his shot. Goal!
Omar stands proudly with a soccer ball as he recalls his childhood without a father at home.
20
Accounting
Professor Counts the Days Until
His Next Trip
And we count his tips that ensure the best travel experience for all Story by Alexa Mancilla Photos by Justin Traylor
P
rofessor Kurt Hull, an accounting professor at El Camino, is an avid traveler who recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro with virtually no preparation or training. Tanzania was his 92nd country visited in 20 years, and he hopes to have been to 100 countries by the end of 2018. While traveling to 90-plus countries may not be attainable for students on a budget, Professor Hull shares his top ten tips for anyone who may want travel to a new country on or off a budget.
1
) Don’t be afraid
All around the world, people are very similar. There is very little to fear about the people around you.
2
) Be flexible
Things won’t always go your way while traveling abroad, and you need to be okay with adjusting your plans.
3
) Travel light and pack only what you need
“You don’t need to bring 30 outfits if you are traveling for a month. Bring three and find a laundromat” Hull says.
4
) Bring Cipro
(Also known as ciproflaxin, which treats bacterial infections.) If you get sick while abroad, Hull says that Cipro can cure virtually anything.
Professor Hull poses in front of the music building as he recalls stories from one of his favorite destinations.
5
) Don’t book all of your flights and rooms in advance
If you make a change to your itinerary while traveling, booking spur-of-the-moment will ensure that you don’t lose money on pre-booked stays.
6
) Set different start and end points
“For me, this way of traveling is a blast. Several years ago, I flew into Sofia, Bulgaria and out of Helsinki, Finland. Getting from Budapest to Finland one city at a time was so much fun,” Hull says.
7
) Ask for help
“People are generally willing to help strangers. So, if you are lost, don’t be afraid to reach out.”
8
) Get lost
Don’t always play everything by-the-book. Finding things off of the beaten path can create lifelong memories. The worst that could happen is you’ll have to refer back to tip number seven.
9
) Stay in hostels
“You will meet like-minded people from around the world, and grow your social circles. While I’ve outgrown staying in them, I made great memories while staying in hostels,” Hull recalls.
10
) Don’t be the “Ugly American.”
Cultures all around the world are vastly different. Attempt to learn as much as you can about the culture and respect the differences in customs while traveling.
Bonus Tip!
Hull says that thanks to the internet, planning trips have never been easier. Websites like tripadvisor.com make booking flights, hotel, and transport an ease, while sites like lonelyplanet.com and nomadicmatt.com give travelers destinations to visit and tips to travel on a budget. Travel.state.gov gives information on entry and exit requirements, as well as any other important information that one may need before traveling out of the country. Be sure to check out Hull’s blog, taosabi.com to see photos and read about his experiences while traveling across the globe.
While Hull says that all of his trips are unforgettable, he obviously has his favorites. Some of his top destinations are: Angkor Way, Cambodia; Began Region, Myanmar; Serengeti National Park, Tanzania; Maasai Mara National Park, Kenya; Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania; Galapagos Islands, Ecuador; Merida, Venezuela; Taganga, Colombia; Luang Prabang, Laos; and Kruger National Park, South Africa.
21
PASSING THE
THE
OF
TORCH
History professor and former Venice Beach lifeguard Arthur Verge prepares some of his students to live a life filled with action and excitement as lifeguards Story by Justin Traylor and Sarah Desmond Photos by Justin Traylor TO READ THIS STORY AND OTHER WARRIOR LIFE CONTENT THAT DID NOT MAKE IT TO PRINT, CHECK OUTOUR WEBSITE:
www.eccunion.com/warrior-life-magazine/
THE UNION
newspaper
Join the staff or intern for El Camino College’s student-run newspaper Ryan Guitare, photo editor for Warrior Life magazine, also took on the positions for photo editor and sports editor for The Union paper. Here he is photographed (right) with ASO candidtae Joseph Mardesich (left) who asked to take a photo with Ryan. This could be you. Enroll in Journalism classes today, you never know if an editor position will fall into your lap.
22
Sit Back & Relax If you’re looking for a place to get mouth watering food, to relax and catch the game, then you should check out this list of top five sports bars Story and photo by Justin Traylor
A
re you looking for a place to wind down or enjoy the game? If so, here are the top five sports bars of our chouce around El Camino College. Sit back and relax as you read about what offers are available at these sports bars.
1
) COACH’S CORNER BAR & GRILL
This bar is a great place to come enjoy the game with friends. it’s a friendly environment for all sports fans. This bar comes with 9 overhead TVs so customers won’t miss any of the action. Coach’s offer comfort food if your team is losing and you need something to help the pain. And then on the other hand they also offer victory food when you’re on top of the world. Coach’s bar is a great place to have a good time.Accepts all types of payments Address: 1308 S Inglewood Ave., 90250 Hours: Monday-Friday: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Contact: (424) 456-4849
2
) FLIGHTS BEER BAR
This is a little bar that packs a big punch. it’s a very intimate setting at Flights everyone can sit together and enjoy the game. they also get to enjoy some amazing food. The bomber burger is a great selection to chose on the big payload burger menu; it cost about 15 dollars but its worth it. Flights also offers a 7 dollar weekday
food special from 3 p.m.- 7 p.m. Overall this is another great palce to go. Accepts all types of payments Address: 5119 W El Segundo Blvd., Hawthorne, 90250 Hours: Monday-Thursday: 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Friday-Saturday: 12 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: (310) 676-8228
3
) GRUNIONS SPORTS BAR & GRILL
This almost hidden sports bar in Manhattan Beach is a gem. Grunions offers a cozy atmosphere everyone makes you feel like family. TVs are located all around the Bar so no one has to ask for a specific game and if you do they are more than willing to accommodate you. Grunions is one of the fews sports bars the actaully serve breakfast not just wings and burgers. If you happen to find yourself alone abd you want to catch the game this is a perfect palce to go. All payment types accepted Address: 1501 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 90266 Hours: Monday-Friday: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Contact: (310) 545-9910
4
) BROOKLYN BAR
Brooklyn bar offers a very chill and laidback atmosphere to its customers. Customers
are surronted by little muiticolored lights on the ceiling giving it a real hangout vibe type of palce. at every table there’s board games like Uno and Jenga so theres never any down time. they also have pool tables around the bar for pick up games. On friday nights the bar has taco night night for its customers. All payment types are accepted Address: 16618 Hawthorne Blvd., Lawndale, 90250 Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m to 11 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Contact: (310) 370-0022
5
) ROADHOUSE BAR & GRILL
If you want to catch one of the earlier games and get out the house this place for you. This bar grill opens at 6 a.m. every day and its equipped with several TVs for all the sports your heart may desire. Roadhouse offers great bar games for its customers. They have 2 pool tables, along with dart games to play, and they even have a juke box to play some good music while your kicking butt. its a pleasant atmosphere it gets pretty crowed but its worth it. All payments types accecpted Address: 3103 W St, Torrance, Ca 90504 Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Contact: (310) 323-6603
23
Dani poses with her service dog, Luca, in front of the ITEC building.
24
FREEDOM in the form of a
Golden Retriever The benefits, the perks, and the downfalls of being a student with a service dog
Story by Melanie Chacon and Photos by Jack Kan
L
aying comfortably on the grass outside of the Humanities Building, Luca waits patiently for a treat from her handler, Dani Lindeman.
Dani has just finished exercising the nearly 2-year-old golden retriever who pants heavily in anticipation for Dani’s next command. Dani Lindeman is a 19-year-old psychology student at El Camino who has an undiagnosed heart condition as well as post-traumatic stress disorder. Her service dog and companion Luca has many duties, but the biggest one is called “alerting”. Alerting is a service dog’s physical response, such as pawing, nudging with its nose, or other signals to the outwardly visible cues their handler is unaware of. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. “I have a heart problem, and (Luca) will alert when my heart rate gets really high really quick. And I can either take medicine to calm down or do whatever I need to do obviously before it gets worse,” Dani says. “(Luca) prevents me from passing out.” Dani says that she first noticed this condition about four years ago. Her father died when she was a freshman at South High School in Torrance. Soon after, she dropped out and began independent studies. “I had dropped out of school because I was
struggling a lot because I would get really, really dizzy, and I didn’t know what was going on,” Dani says. Dani talked with her mother, Lisa, about what she was experiencing, and they went to see a doctor. That’s when they figured out that her heart rate was accelerating too high too quickly, and Dani says she’s still undergoing testing for a clear diagnosis. Dani describes the next few years of her life as “isolation.” After her father died, she felt like everything came crashing down on her all at once. Though she says that her friends did their best to reach out to her, she thought that shutting everyone out was the best way to deal with her life at the time. “I didn’t talk to some of my closest friends for two to three years. I spent most of my days in my room…and ignored everyone’s existence,” Dani says. She didn’t think that anyone else could understand what she was going through. It took a while, but Dani says, “I realized that I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life at home and being scared of the world wasn’t how I wanted to live.” So she talked to her doctor and he told her about service dogs and what one could provide in her case. When Dani learned that having a service dog could help her go back to school, she was elated and immediately began looking into programs. After she found out that getting a dog through a program could take anywhere from
25
two to six years, she decided to “owner train,” which is owning a dog and training it yourself to be your service dog. Enter the young, spunky, intelligent and adorable Luca. Dani got Luca when she was just 12 weeks old. The two have been inseparable ever since. Luca is a cardiac alert dog. Since Dani suffers from a spontaneous accelerated heart rate that can lead to her passing out as well as anxiety which has the potential to produce panic attacks, Luca’s job is to alert her right away. “Essentially, (Luca) forces me to recognize that something is affecting me, given I freeze up and need to remove myself before I end up having a panic attack,” Dani says. Luca alerts by pawing at Dani’s leg. Dani will then sit down and do some breathing exercises
“Essentially, (Luca) forces me to recognize that something is affecting me, given I freeze up and need to remove myself before I end up having a panic attack,” Dani says. to calm herself, ensuring that the situation doesn’t escalate. According to the Center for Canine Behavior Studies website, it states, “Canines can detect rising cortisol levels in our sweat or breath.” Humans have 12 million smell receptors in their nose. At the lowest estimate, dogs have 800 million smell receptors. When Dani’s heart rate is elevated, she says that Luca can essentially smell the hormone called cortisol, otherwise known as the “stress hormone,” which our bodies secrete naturally when our heart rate increases rapidly. Luca will alert when she senses this. “She’s sniffing a lot. She’ll lick at my mouth, which is really gross but that’s where the smell is coming from,” Dani says. Luca has the alerting down and Dani says she’s still working on “retrieving” with her. “Bringing medicine, picking up her leash for me. I’m also teaching her nightmare interruptions so if I’m having a nightmare she’ll wake me up,” Dani says. “She does other things like psychiatric tasks like interrupting (nervous]) scratching, crying, stuff like that.” With Luca’s help, Dani was able to return to high school in the second semester of her senior year. It was an adjustment for her and hard at
26
first, considering that having a service dog on campus was not typical for a student there. “I went from being ‘Dani’ to ‘the girl with the dog.’ So, people would talk to me and I was like, you never talked to me before,” Dani says. Dani’s high school teachers loved Luca. One of her teachers joked that she wanted to get Luca a dog bed. Another teacher would bring Luca dog treats. “I had a really good experience with the teachers there,” Dani says. As for her experience at El Camino, Dani says that “the students have been a lot more difficult to deal with.” She explains that in high school it was all the same kids. At least everybody recognized her and Luca because they would see them every day. “Then we come (to El Camino) and it’s like, if I show up 20 minutes later it’s a different crowd of kids that are coming out (of classes). So, it’s another 10,000 people that I have to talk to and deal with every day,” Dani says. Students and others tend to approach Dani and pet Luca multiple times throughout their day. In some cases, Dani is OK with it, but she would prefer people ask her first. Dani wants people to know that if you approach a handler and pet a service dog without asking, it distracts the dog from working, which can potentially be dangerous. If Dani isn’t feeling well, she needs Luca’s full attention in the event that her heart rate does rise. “I think a lot of people think they (service dogs) are just here for fun. Like, if I didn’t have to bring her everywhere, I definitely wouldn’t. She’s here for a reason, not just to look pretty and follow me around,” Dani says. On Luca’s black vest, in white embroidery with a pink stitched border, it reads “KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF; I’M WORKING” and “NOT HERE FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT.” Dani decided to stitch this onto Luca’s vest prevent verbal arguments with people who tend to overwhelm her or Luca. For example, once at Disneyland, a child crawled under one of the rows while in line for the Disneyland Railroad and began petting Luca. Dani said to the child’s father, “Excuse me, sir, can you get your kid because (Luca’s]) working right now?” To which the father replied, “Well you shouldn’t have brought your dog to Disneyland if you don’t want kids petting it.” Dealing with these types of people is really hard for Dani, but she explains that it is these situations that have forced her to learn her rights and defend herself and she is now considering a future at USC Gould School of Law.
Dani feeds Luca a treat as a reward for focusing and keeping Dani safe.
27
According to the ADA, there are only two questions employers/staff may ask: 1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and 2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform. Staff cannot ask about the person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task, according to the ADA. Luca goes everywhere with Dani. From her babysitting job to the beach. From Disneyland to her classrooms. Luca is always by her side. In her free time, Dani enjoys photography and focuses mostly on taking photos of Luca. She’s even created a personal Instagram account for her service dog, @theteenygolden, which features portraits of the adorable golden retriever. Dani says that Luca loves to pose for pictures and believes that she’s quite photogenic. It was through Luca’s Instagram account that Dani met her best friend Leslie Silva who had a service dog herself named Odin. Leslie reached out to Dani and they quickly bonded over their services dogs and mutual love for Disneyland. “Sharing a friendship with Dani has been one of the best experiences in my life. The more time we spent together, the more I got to know (Dani) and love her,” Leslie shares. “Often times when you have a disability and need a service dog, people become very distant and prefer not to hang around you. So the fact that Dani and I were so similar made things perfect for us,” Leslie says. The quartet share a unique friendship. Dani and Leslie are able to enjoy themselves and have fun together, while “the pups keep us safe,” Leslie says. “It’s really cool having someone that understands you. ” Dani says. Dani makes a point to share that her friends that don’t have service dogs are understanding and accepting of Luca. Yet they can’t understand like another handler does. Dani says that the biggest thing that Luca has brought to her life is freedom. Dani still struggles with the passing of her father. That is why Luca does a lot of psychiatric tasks for her.
Luca looks adoringly up at her owner and trainer, Dani.
28
“So, being able to go places again, I mean I hid away in my room for like three years. So, just having independence again is the biggest thing. Independence to go to school, wanting to pursue law. Like, things that never would have been possible before. So, (Luca’s) really given me my life back,” Dani says.
BONUS INFORMATION R E G I S T E R I N G YO U R S E RV I C E D O G AT T H E S T U D E N T R E S O U RC E S CENTER: If a student has a service animal, they need to bring the proper paperwork from their physician to the Student Resources Center. Once they have shown the documents to the SRC, they can now proceed freely around campus and in class rooms. It is then up to the student whether or not they wish to divulge information to their teachers. Teachers may not ask a student handler about their condition or the presence of a service dog. Information courtesy of Alex Trujillo, senior clerical assistant at the Student Resources Center.
Luca, the two-year-old golden retriever is tasked in making sure that Dani is safe.
29
A
N E W
H O M E Q&A with political science professor
Eduardo Munoz, who fled Nicaragua’s civil war in search of a
better life in the U.S. Story by Sarah Desmond Photos by Mari Inagaki
A
Professor of political science at El Camino College, Eduardo Munoz, 47, fled Nicaragua at 14 in search for a better life. Back when he was a college student, he studied as a pre-med student. He decided to transition to a political science major when he realized the lack of individuals at his school were aware of the political situations in countries outside of the U.S., specifically, about the civil war that took place in Nicaragua. Eduardo experienced the nation had transitioned into a nation under communist rule. Below is a Q&A that delves into his experience there and then his decision to immigrate to the United States.
Eduardo Munoz wears a suit, which is his usual attire when he teaches, as he stands outside of the Social Science Building (left image) and in the hallway of the Behavioral and Social Sciences Division Office (right image). Sometimes he gives himself a break on test days and sports a pair of jeans and a blazer.
Editor-in-Chief (EIC): Tell me a little about the civil war you experienced? Eduardo: “In some ways, I think it was political indoctrination so people understood the government, the revolution, the goals. They were drafting people at a young age.”
our house, we” Eduardo elaborates about losing someone during this time. “My grandfather -- (a) rocket fell next to his house and he was in the hospital for three days and passed away. It was hard.”
EIC: What are some particular things you remember during this experience? Eduardo: “During the war, you’d have curfews during 1978 and 1979. The next morning, you would go out and see the bullet holes (and) the walls of blood. You could see literally through the keyhole (from inside) your house the tanks and the soldiers on the street, and the airplane bombs dropping and stuff. In
EIC: How did you come to decide to move to the United States and what was the transition like? Eduardo: “...We couldn’t all come at the same time. My dad, you know, was a law professor. So he couldn’t just pick up and go... my brother came a year earlier (than I) and he was living with an uncle, my mom’s brother. And then I would go to Texas and live with my
30
dad’s brother for a little while before my parents were able to come. So it was hard, because the reality was I didin’t know if I was ever going to see them again...” EIC: How many years after you came did your parents come? Eduardo: “A couple years after. Yeah, we could talk on the phone and stuff, but I mean you never knew the times, the situation, as the country was fighting a war” ... “I used to have nightmares of the war. You’d hear the airplanes dropping bombs. The bullets, the machine guns, and stuff.” EIC: What was it like growing up the
rest of your life in the United States? Eduardo: “I knew I had come here for a reason and that was to get an education. I would have opportunity to do that freely in the sense that if I wanted to take a class on Marxism or philosophy, I was free to do that. I would have the choice to pick and choose. Whereas if I had stayed (in Nicaragua), that choice wouldn’t have been given to me, you know.”...”I played baseball. I played sports.” EIC: What was it like going to high school in the United States? Eduardo: “It was a change initially because in Texas, the town where my uncle lived -- nobody spoke English except my Uncle and his wife. She was the Spanish teacher at the high school. And the town (Carthage, Texas) was so small that the high school, middle school and elementary school were all together. That’s how small it was. But I think it helped me pick up the language. Because I was forced to be immersed fully.” EIC: Are you an American citizen? If so, when did you become one and what was that experience like? Eduardo: “I am now. I became one in 2003. That was touching. I mean, I cried, in all honesty. Because after 20 years it was a culmination of something big. I remember it was at the Pomona Fair Grounds back then and there were thousands of people and you raised your right hand swearing the constitution. The whole ambiance. Wow, I finally got here. I finally became a citizen.” EIC: And what did that mean to you? What went through your head in those moments? Eduardo: “To me, becoming a citizen in many ways meant I had made it...There used to be a show in the 1980s, it was called “MacGyver” and the opening scene of the show, they showed
3
tipsfor t h ene w politic ally e n g a g e d s t u d e n t : Political science professor Eduardo Munoz gives his advice.
an American passport. So that was around the time after I came (to the United States). And I used to always say ‘one day, one day, I’m going to get that passport’. And about 20 years later, I did. It was a great feeling. And again, it had been a challenge, fear, leaving family behind, leaving your country, but when you got to that point... yeah, I cried. It was very emotional. I was 33 then when I became a citizen. And 2004 was (the) first election where I could vote.”
“Becoming a citizen in many ways meant I had made it,”
Eduardo says. EIC: And you have a son, is that correct? Eduardo: “I have a son who is 14 now. It’s interesting...that’s the age that I came (to the United States). The challenges of growing up, the friends, the school, the environment and the experiences that he’s had have been completely different. I haven’t gone back to Nicaragua. I want to go back...I want to take him (there)...so he can get a deeper sense of our roots.” EIC: Have you talked about your experience with him? Eduardo: “He knows. Just a little bit. When we get together as a family with my parents, sometimes we talk a little bit about that, too. So
1
) Ask questions
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Come to faculty, come to professors and ask. Ask questions and gather information as you take a variety of courses (about politics),” Eduardo says.
2
) Don’t become disillusioned
“Try not to get disillusioned because change doesn’t happen overnight. You have to put in a lot of work. It’s an effort.
I think in the near future, we’re going to make that trip.” EIC: What is your opinion on the current situation of the United States regarding immigration? Eduardo: “This country was made up of immigrants. Immigrants contribute to the very fabric of this society in so many ways. But sometimes the bad apples, because there are good apples and bad apples in everything, come to the lime light and is exploited in the sense. But I think immigrants make a very good contribution to this society. People want to come to America. They want to have an opportunity. They want to contribute...If we think we have it tough here, in other countries, it’s even tougher. It is sad. It is very sad that the government has not been very successful in creating an immigration policy in the last decade and a half that will serve and better our society. There’s a lot of people who came here illegally, and it’s not like you’re going to give them a free pass, but there needs to be a immigration reform. You can’t just start deporting people. And it’s a failure on the part of the government.” EIC: What kind of solution would you propose? Eduardo: “There are people who have fears... if you have people. If you have have people who have been living in this country, who have been working, you have people serving in the military that there needs to be a process that will allow them to become citizens, become legal, even if they have to get at the back of the line, even if they have to pay a fine. It’s, again, politicians, they want their support, they go to their base of the party and that’s what makes the differences between Democrats and Republicans, they can’t agree.”
Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Sometimes the candidate you voted for will win the election, sometimes they won’t. But you know you’ll have another chance. Down the road, there will be another election,” Eduardo says.
3
) Get to know people
“Try to understand as best you can to get a well rounded knowledge of what it is that drives you (politically). The more you talk to people, the more you are going to enhance that,” Eduardo says.
31
Cinco Cheers
for
Churros
There is very little in life that is better than fried dough covered in cinnamon and sugar, which is why Warrior Life went on a “churro crawl” to find the best ones in the South Bay. Read on to find our winners.
1
Story and Photo by Alexa Mancilla
W
arm, soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside, coated in cinamon and sugar, churros is the Mexican Mexican dessert Southern Californians are raving about. Below, we share top five standalone churro shops around the South Bay all within a 20-minute drive of El Camino.
1
) CHURROHOLIC
While this churro is on the pricier side, it is worth every penny. At times, the wait is long and parking can be difficult to find, but all that is forgotten as the warm, fried pastry is handed over. Served in the shape of a large loop with a heaping scoop of homemade ice cream, the dessert can serve as a full meal. The churro is warm and has the perfect amount of crunch and the vanilla ice cream melts to create a delectable mix of sweetness. What to order: Original Churro with vanilla ice cream, $7.50 Address: 552 East Carson Street, Carson 90745 (7.6 mi.) Hours: open Sunday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. ; Saturday and Firday from 11 a.m. to midnight Contact: (310) 500-2558
2
) REDONDOUGH
While Redondough doesn’t offer the classic churro as a sweet treat, they do offer a delicious churro doughnut -- something that can pass as both breakfast and a dessert. The bakery’s unique take on the churro offers the perfect mixture of crunchy and soft. It tastes good fresh out of the oven or at room temperature
32
and adds an extra layer of flavor with a mix of cinnamon, sugar, cloves, nutmeg, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. What to order: Churro doughnut, $2.75 Address: 1218 Beryl Street, Redondo Beach 90277 (4.7 mi) Hours: open Monday - Saturday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
of ice cream or a side order of Spanish espresso (which are both offered, for an additional cost). What to order: The Grail Classic Churro, $4.50 Address: 1808 South Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach 90277 (7.5 mi.) Hours: Monday - Thursday: 2 p.m. to10 p.m.; Friday: 2 p.m. to midnight; Saturday: noon to midnight; Sunday: noon to10 p.m.
Contact: (424) 304-2773
Contact: (310) 908-8200
3
5
) PIER BAKERY
The Pier Bakery’s sign boasts that they offer the “world’s best homemade churros” and that proclamation definitely rings true. Made fresh to order, each churro is guaranteed to be warm and with the perfect amount of crunch and chew. A large scoop of cinnamon sugar is dropped onto the churro as it leaves the deep fryer, and as soon as you hand over your payment, your churro is ready to be eaten. What to order: Classic churro, $2.50 Address: 100 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach 90277 (6.4 mi) Hours: open Monday - Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 or 8 p.m.; on Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Contact: (310) 376-9582
4
) THE GRAIL CHURROS & ICE CREAM
The Grail Classic Churro may seem unassuming at first, but the warm and crunchy churro lives up to its namesake. Drizzled with a salted caramel sauce and sprinkled with a heaping helping of cinnamon sugar, the only thing that could make it better would be a scoop
) COSTCO WHOLESALE
While it may not be a “new” churro shop (and it is definitely not a stand-alone store), Costco churros are an understandable fan favorite. As the least expensive churro on the list, it is difficult not to enjoy a warm pastry while doing some shopping (or while chowing down on some frozen yogurt, because the two sweets mixed together are pretty great). Although the churros are pre-made and simply warmed in the Costco kitchen, it is difficult to tell the difference between this and a homemade churro. The presentation is nothing special (it is served wrapped in a piece of foil), but the churro is warm and soft, and it is close to impossible not to feel happy while exploring the super-store while chowing down on the pastry. What to order: Twisted Churro with cinnamon and sugar, $1 Address: 14501 Hindry Hawthorne 90250 (3.2 mi)
Avenue,
Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact: (310) 727-0403
El Camino’s
EMT professor Ryan Carey stares at the sun in front of the ITEC building.
Superhero Professor An EM T professor
s h a re s h i s h e ro i c journey and his lair that
i n c l u d e s c h i c ke n s Story and Photos by Justin Traylor
T
he dark knight roams the halls of the Industrial Technology Building. Dressed in all black with a tip-top physique, his presence is unforgettable as he roams the halls with his impeccable stature. His full beard, matched with a goatee, gives off a sense of wisdom as though he has seen a lot of things in his lifetime. His one-of-a-kind electric personality and unforgettable laugh makes anyone feel welcome. If Bruce Wayne had another alter ego, his name would be Ryan Carey. But things weren’t always perfect for the 6’5” knight. Growing up in San Gabriel and attending Gaberielino High School was its own challenge. “There were gangs everywhere,” Ryan says. He says he grew up ironically a minority because San Gabriel’s student body was mostly African American and Latino and he is white. To stay out of trouble he and his brother, Shawn, would make as many friends as possible. They also played sports including basketball, golf and volleyball. This is where he learned the Golden Rule: treat people how you want to be treated. This is a rule that Ryan lives by every day.
“If you give them a little piece of something and they have the motivation to succeed and attain their goals, it’s a beautiful thing to see,” Ryan says.
screech as students take their seats. He looks toward the class and scans the room with his light blue eyes.
“It’s fundamental,” Ryan says.
One and a half years later, he finally got his master’s degree from Grand Canyon University with an emphasis on disaster preparedness and effective fire leadership.
But Ryan, a 34-year-old EMT program director at El Camino, is ready to teach his students everything he knows about saving lives. On a normal day, the knight walks into Room 222 with one purpose and one purpose only: to get the next generation of heroes ready for the world ahead of them. Ryan walks in front of the class as the chairs
“Good morning guys. It’s time to begin,” Ryan says. Ryan’s journey began like most of his students; he started his college education at a community college. Ryan went to six different community colleges to get his associates degree, where it took him a total of seven years to attain. “I would just grab units everywhere I could,” Ryan says. He would take any class related to fire tech and “I would finally smash them all together and it was just like ‘yes, I got an associates degree from Bakersfield College,” Ryan says. Two years later he obtained his bachelor’s in fire administration at Waldorf University in Forest City, Iowa.
Money was a big issue for Ryan, but he was able to take out a loan and achieve his goal. “It changed my life,” Ryan says. He gives credit to his mother, Tina, and sister, Ali, for being strong role models. They
33
were hard-working and kind, so Ryan admired that and tried to implement that in his life.
was able to train students from all over the world about doing the job he loves.
undecided major, Joseph Romero, says that Ryan is determined and hardworking.
Ryan took this path because he wanted to be promoted in the leadership positions in the fire tech industry. He wanted to be a planning section chief or insect chief so that he could plan large-scale operations.
Now, Ryan has brought his talents to El Camino. He started in 2014 and he absolutely loves being a professor.
“He really made a point to get to know me on a personal level. I wasn’t just another student,” Joseph says. “He really pushed me.”
“I always start [the semester] off by asking four questions,” Ryan says, “I ask each student what their name is, where they grew up, what motivates them, and what do they want to get from taking this class?”
However, Ryan says that he still misses being a firefighter.
Matthew Crane, the director of USC Emergency Medical Services says that “working in a field like this requires the ability to concentrate under pressure, and deal with inherent challenges of prehospital care.” EMTs must “adapt to changing circumstances and provide high-quality patient care no matter the circumstances,” Matthew says. As a 13-year veteran in his field, Ryan has done pretty much everything in the industry. Early in his career, he worked for the United States Forest Services as a firefighter chief for three years. But in 2012, Ryan blew his back out during his time as a Wildland Firefighter for the United States Forest Service. While Ryan was on shift he was doing fuel clearance behind the station, which involves clearing all the brush and trees up to about 8-feet tall. Ryan was standing on the tips of his toes cutting the limbs of the trees with his chainsaw. He was working on that about three to four hours. Then, as he was cutting, “I pinched my chainsaw bar in the tree,” Ryan says. He misread how thick the tree was which caused his chainsaw to get stuck. “I couldn’t pull it out, but I thought I could,” Ryan says. “So I tightened up my muscles, and ground my teeth and tried to rip it out.” The chainsaw stayed there in the tree as he fell immediately to the ground. The disc in between Ryan’s vertical column in his back combusted. “The doctor said it was like [when someone steps] on a ketchup packet,” Ryan says. “It really messed me up for like eight months. I had multiple spinal surgeries. The last one I had was a spinal fusion, so they rebuilt the lower part of my back,” Ryan says. After the surgeries, he was left with a 14-inch scar on his back and a loss of feeling in his right leg and the bottom of his foot. “It essentially took me out of the game entirely,” Ryan says. Later, Ryan was placed on light duty and was about to embark on a new journey. Ryan began to work in the national training center as a training coordinator for the United States Forest Service in Arcadia. There, Ryan
34
“From being a firefighter to a fulltime teacher, I love it. I love teaching. I feel like I was born to do it. I love the energy,” Ryan says. “Before, I would help one person at a time. Now I feel like I’m helping 30 at a time. The feedback feels great. That, alone, keeps me motivated.” Ryan tries to do everything in his power to help his students. He tries to stay connected with them so it’s easier to get them closer to their own goals. “From being a firefighter to a full-time teacher, I love it. I love teaching. I feel like I was born to do it. I love the energy,” he says. “Before, I would help one person at a time. Now I feel like I’m helping 30 at a time. The feedback feels great. That, alone, keeps me motivated.” One of Ryan’s former students, 21-year-old
“It’s like being on a big winning team; it just feels good,” he says. Ryan stays pretty busy. When he’s not at El Camino he’s at home or, as he calls it, his “little quarter acre of land” in Claremont spending time with his wife, Laura. They also take care of 10 chickens, three dogs, four cats, and three children (13-year-old Naia, 12-year-old Griffin, and 4-year-old Owen). “Life is relaxing here out here,” Ryan says suited with his black “super dad” shirt and black shades as he watches Owen feed the small flock of chickens. Owen throws handfuls of feed in random directions as he runs back to his dad, smiling and covered in feed. Dressed in a black polo shirt and green and grey striped with blue shorts, Owen matched his dad’s energy ten-fold. “Are you ready for more, little buddy?” Ryan says. Owen shook his head profusely with a KoolAid smile, and Ryan gave him a reload. “I feel like being out here keeps all of us grounded,” Ryan says. Owen runs over to his father and says, “Can you jump with me?” “Sure buddy, let’s jump,” Ryan responds. They both entered the blue netted trampoline where they both began to jump higher and higher. You could hear the laughter and enjoyment for blocks away from the backyard. Soon after, Ryan and Owen get out to enjoy a nice cool glass of water. It was now time to round up the chickens and call it a day. When he is not at El Camino or in Calremont, Ryan volunteers for Tulare Unified School District to give free CPR and first aid training. His class is mainly people in continuation school. They are students who are going through tough times; sometimes his students can’t even afford a pair of boots. “If you give them a little piece of something and they have the motivation to succeed and attain their goals, it’s a beautiful thing to see,” Ryan says.
One of Ryan’s many hens that flock around on his piece of land.
Ryan carries one of his ten chickens as he helps his son feed their animals.
Ryan and his son Owen share quality time in their trampoline at their hometurned mini farm in Claremont.
35
Giving it
Everything She’s Got
Even with the uncertainty of success
in the music world and the insecurities that the industry may bring, singer/ songwriter Analiz Castillo uses her music to channel her emotions in a constructive and creative way
Story by Alexa Mancilla Photos by Jorge Villa 36
Analiz warms up in Saint Rocke’s greenroom before performing in SoundCollective’s artist showcase.
37
A
naliz Castillo picks up her dark brown acoustic guitar and begins lightly strumming the strings as she explains the background behind the original song that she is about to record. “’Everything I’ve Got’ is a soulful song about a relationship gone sour,” Analiz says. “I didn’t want to face the fact that it was the end, so I wrote those lyrics instead.” Her raw emotion while singing incites vulnerable feelings in the listener. Analiz’s sultry vocals, calming guitar chords and emotional lyrics transport the listener to the place in time where Analiz realized that her relationship was over as if they themselves were in her shoes. Analiz Castillo is a singer/songwriter and a 22-year-old jazz music major at El Camino College, who writes and records music, which she shares through SoundCloud and YouTube accounts. She plans to soon release her first fulllength album, called “Sentimental Mood” on iTunes and Spotify. Despite her strong voice and lyric-writing abilities, Analiz wonders whether this is enough for her to gain success in the music industry today; a music industry that seems to heavily place value on physical appearance. Analiz’s powerful voice and vulnerable, yet thought-provoking lyrics are talents that take many years to perfect. So when she begins to sing her songs, it’s hard to imagine that Analiz wasn’t born with the ability to create music that makes listeners feel Analiz’s pain, anguish and vulnerability. Lyric writing and songwriting is very important to Analiz and crafting her songs is a balance of skill and allowing herself to feel. “We’ve taught ourselves to have calluses, to build thick skin, rather than to just shed that skin and show the world who you truly are: to let it hurt,” Analiz says. Her empathetic nature and her ability to feel deeply about things and people fuel the words and melody that make her music raw and real. “When I sing my songs, it’s the only time I truly show people what my soul looks like,” Analiz says. When she’s out on stage singing to an audience, especially an audience she doesn’t know, she says, “it’s a very take-it-or-leave-it situation.” “Like here’s a piece of my soul, you either like it or not,” Analiz says. Analiz takes inspiration also from many artists and musicians. Amy Winehouse, Lauren Hill, Corinne Bailey Rae and Fleetwood Mac to name a few.
38
She also enjoys listening to jazz singers. But songwriters are the ones who draw her in and lyricists who can captivate their audience with the words they put together. “Not all singers are songwriters and not all songwriters are singers. Like, you’re not gonna find Johnny Cash next to Adele, because Adele will fuckin’ sing Cash out of the water. But Johnny Cash will write one of the most amazing and thought-provoking country songs you’ve ever heard,” Analiz says.
de Mel, and her best friend, John Quimbayo, decided to make something to show off their musical talents, as well as their friends. When explaining the desire to create a YouTube channel, Analiz says that “we wanted to start a YouTube channel to release new music. make music videos, and most importantly, showcase our friends who are also up-andcoming musicians in the area.” Along with a YouTube channel and SoundCloud account, Analiz started the Black Cat Collective, a Facebook page that serves a community of artists allowing them to use the page to throw fundraisers, plan jam sessions, and bounce ideas and new music off of each other, along with sharing future musical endeavors.
“We’ve taught ourselves to have calluses, to build Despite the strong group of supportive thick skin, rather than musicians in her corner, Analiz still has fears about her uncertain future in music. to just shed that skin “You have to have this certain look, to adhere to this certain sound. I’m not always sure about and show the world my future. It’s pretty scary. It’s intimidating,” Analiz says. However, music producer and composer for who you truly are: to let Skidoo Records, Craig Hartley, says that “the only way to break into the music industry is to it hurt,” Analiz says. stay in the race,” and that one’s looks do not As an artist struggling to make ends meet, Analiz works seasonal jobs at retail stores and at Camp Awesome, a summer camp in Marina del Rey, and lives with her parents in Hawthorne. Analiz explains that she has a scholarship to help pay for school, and that she hopes to move out of her parents’ house once she receives her masters’s degree in music at USC.
“You should never feel content or like you have arrived. Always strive and grow. That in itself is breaking through,” Craig says. Analiz performs her original songs at coffee shops and open mic nights around the South Bay and Los Angeles area. Her SoundCloud and YouTube accounts have hundreds of listeners and views. Her desire to start a YouTube channel became a reality when her boyfriend, Srimal
necessarily help or hinder one’s success in the industry. Her long brown hair, warm brown eyes, and comforting smile, however, are not things that individuals would say would hinder Analiz’s success in the music industry. Her insecurities are warranted, with “these people online with thousands of followers...who are posting half-naked photos or aren’t even writing the music that they’re performing,” she says. “I can’t help but think that maybe I don’t have the looks for it. It’s a lot of insecurities that come along with being an artist. There’s no way to hide behind your music when you’re performing. It’s all so vulnerable.” Craig says that as long as “you keep honing your skills, creating your art, keep inspired, and stay motivated you will break through (the music industry).” “You should never feel content or like you have arrived. Always strive and grow. That in itself is breaking through,” Craig says. Although Analiz says that her insecurities prevent her from reaching her full potential as an artist, her soulful vocals seem to make her insecurities disappear. At her best friend’s Palos Verdes mansion, Analiz sets up her guitar and recording equipment in his makeshift recording studio. As a camera begins recording, Analiz
Analiz tunes her guitar to perfection in Saint Rocke’s greenroom before going onstage.
39
Analiz Castillo has always loved performing but, but was nervous about the uncertainty of the profession, until she realized that she wanted to live life with no regrets.
40
Analiz performs one of her original songs in Saint Rocke’s green room before she goes on stage to perform.
41
introduces herself, why she makes music and what the song she is about to play is about. “I just want to write music that people can relate to, I was to create music that people can feel the same way that I felt when writing the song,” she says to the camera. She begins to belt out her original song, “Everything I’ve Got,” and her musical influences are clear; her voice is as soulful, strong, and jazz-like as Amy Winehouse, and her skillful lyric writing and guitar playing would make Joni Mitchell proud. Analiz is a perfectionist. As she finishes the song, however, she lets out a grunt of anger. “Crap. We have to start over. I was off-key and played the wrong chord before the bridge. This recording has to be perfect. I don’t care if people can’t tell that I messed up. I know I did, and that’s gonna bug me.” After re-recording the song, Analiz trots across the tile floor, her long, black skirt flowing around her, and explains her excitement for upcoming shows and planned album recordings. Analiz explains that “the hardest song for me to write is the one that I haven’t written yet. Between the last song I’ve written and the one that I haven’t written yet, there is always this fear of failure. I’m scared that I can’t do it and that it won’t be so possible for me to write another song that’ll be just as good as my last one.” “Analiz is willing to share (her experiences) with her listeners and has already had a wealth of personal experiences that she is able to put into music,” William Doyle, Analiz’s mentor and
current music studies professor at El Camino says. “She has a very charming way of singing that is both very disarming and very genuine.” Analiz worries that the music industry is too difficult to break into, and that she may not find success as a musician. However, Doyle defines “success” as something different than the typical definition.
“Both her words and her music have power — time will tell which direction she wants to go in music,” William says. Doyle says that being a successful musician simply means making your music heard. Being a part of the music world is worth the struggle, alone. He says that her music easily resonates with listeners, and that he is excited to see where her music will take her. “Both her words and her music have power — time will tell which direction she wants to go in music,” Doyle says. Despite her fears of not making it in the industry, Analiz is taking a step forward with plans to release her first full-length album. “I am thinking about releasing it on June 21st, the summer solstice, because I love astronomy and because that’s the longest day of the year,” Analiz says.
Analiz says that the album follows her previous breakup and all of the emotions, happy or sad, that she felt through the relationship and breakup. “All of the people on and involved with creating the album are El Camino students and alumni,”Analiz says. “(The album) is very much a product of the music building at El Camino.” If Analiz can’t make it in the industry as a songwriter, she says that she “would want to write about music or be in the music field.” She says that she could see herself working at a music venue, teaching music or curating music books. Whatever it is she may be doing, it is apparent that it will be in the world of music. “Being creative is just a way of life for me,” Analiz says as she walks up the stairs to the foyer. Analiz moves to her friend’s grand piano, sits down and casually taps a few keys, explaining that she recently wrote a love song with Srimal, her current boyfriend. “The song is called ‘I Could Be the One’,” she says. “It’s about the growth of our relationship and the love that we share for each other.” Analiz beckons Srimal over to the piano to play and record the song. Even if the relationship doesn’t work out, she says she wants to be able to look back on the song and their relationship and reminisce about the memories that they shared together. “Music wakes me up in the mornings. I love music and that love keeps me alive, new and refreshed every day,” Analiz says.
The spotlight is on Analiz as she performs an emotional ballad about a relationship that she didn’t want to see end.
42
Analiz stares out the window of Saint Rocke’s greenroom as she tries to calm her nerves before going onstage.
43
Q & A with a
Fashion
Professor Fashion design professor uses her expertise to teach students about the industry
Story by Kaylynn Myles Photos by Darwyn Samoya
F
ashion professor Priscilla Ratcliff shares with Warrior Life about her journey to becoming a fashion designer, and her exciting life as a businesswoman. Assitant Editor (AE): What is your career outside of El Camino? Priscy: “So, I’m a designer. I do evening, bridal, and prom wear. I’m a high fashion couture designer. All of that [and more] is incorporated in my business and it’s called Priscy’s House of Design, Inc.” AE: When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in fashion? Priscy: Oh early on! Five or six years old. I started with doll clothes. My uncle was married to a Japanese lady, even though she was a nurse, she taught me Japanese art and the creativeness. The interest was always there. I did a lot of piano recitals and made my costumes. I was very active in the church. I did church uniforms, choir uniforms, usher uniforms, and did all the prom dresses for my friends and people that were in our church.” AE: How important is fashion week to you? Priscy: “You have to go. It’s almost like a Christian with a church. You ain’t a Christian if you don’t go to church. You may be, but you don’t know the full extent of it.” AE: What is the highlight/defining moment of your career?
44
Priscy stands in front of her design sketches, while wearing an original piece. Priscy: “Oh God, I’m a Gemini; there’s never one. It’s always two. When I did my tour to Japan to open my store, I toured 19 different cities to find the one store in Fukuoka, Japan. I met a lot of other people that were like me. It was so many different people trying to find their talent and find the right market to explode their talent. It was like I found my place.”
AE: What are your plans for the future? Priscy: “Oh my gosh! Well I’m working on book number five. I’m taking my students to Japan in December. And I’m working on a new collection. Designing a new collection for fashion week but I’m doing Dubai Fashion Week.”
AE: How did you go about networking with these people? Priscy: “So I attend all the casting parties from the OMNI Awards, for the NAACP Awards, the Vibe Awards, the Oscars, the Grammy’s. I attend all the award shows.”
AE: Do you have any advice for the up and coming? Priscy: “You need to shadow someone that you really admire that has been or going where you [want to go] before. And you have to learn how to help them. You can’t be in the way. You can’t be the one that’s getting coffee and tea. You can do that at Starbucks. If this is your talent, then you need to share your talent with that person.”
AE: How would someone trying to get into fashion get invited to places like that? Priscy: “To be invited NAACP Awards, you would be a member of the NAACP. They tell you what events that go on that you go to... being a seat filler. You sit in a seat of a celebrity you look like. You sit there until they show up. If they don’t show up you get to sit there all night. And then after for the after party you meet them. So I go and that’s how I meet them. They’ll come right up and talk to you. I give them my card, I wear something that I made.”
AE: What inspires/motivates you? Priscy: “I would definitely have to say color. I would say the ocean. Driving down Sunset [Boulevard]. Driving up and down the hills. Just looking at window displays. Going on Rodeo Drive. Looking at Saks Fifth Avenue window. Flying to New York, and going to Bergdorf Goodman. And looking at their clothes for the weekend.”
Priscy’s homemade designs are ornamented by a hand-made tag with her company’s name and website. In the images on top of the page and below the page, she poses for the camera in her natural habitats.
45
4
TO P 4
1
) LA FITNESS
) SOUTH BAY TRAINER
Student-Friendly
You can find this little hidden treasure behind the Del Amo mall. Show your student ID and become a member with a zero-dollar enrollment fee and pay only $34.99 a month. You will have full access to exercise machines, free weights, basketball and racquet ball courts, a swimming pool and exercise classes.
Feeling bogged down by homework and studying? Take your mind off from school and work out at these picks for the top gyms with student-friendly offers
Address: 3550 Carson St., Suite 404, Torrance, CA 90503
GYMS
Story and photo by Kailiokalani Davison
W
hether it’s a break off from school or a need to get back in shape and get your body into its healthiest state, working out is the remedy. Yet, as a college student money can be tight and you may be reluctant to spend your dollaea on a gym membership. Never fear. Warrior Life is here with the top four gyms in the South Bay that offer either student discounts or/and studentfriendly offers. Let the grind begin.
46
Hours: open Monday - Thursday from 4:30 a.m. to midnight; Friday from 4:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Contact: (310) 921-9890
If you are looking for a small, intimate and inviting gym, then this is the place to be. The owner of the gym, Dave Fisher, is willing to work with students to provide a student discount, so have your student IDs ready. You will feel inspired by the ambiance and the atmosphere of the gym. Be prepared for a motivating workout. Blvd.,
Hours: open Monday - Friday from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact: (424) 206-1596
Address: 3865 Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance, CA 90505 Hours: open Monday - Thursday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: (310) 341-8559 ) UFC GYM
2
Hawthorne
On a budget and need a personal trainer? Look no further than South Bay Trainer. Starting at only $21 to $26 a session you can get a oneon-one workout with certified trainers. If you feel like a typical gym is a little bit intimidating or you need a push, then this is the place for you.
4
) POWERHOUSE GYM
Address: 22715 Torrance, CA 90505
3
MMA Fight Fit classes is what they are popular for. They however also provide a variety of other workout classes, such as Yoga Flow and Killer Cycle. With a student ID, get the Fitness membership discount rate with a $49 enrollment fee and $39 monthly fee. This gives you access to everything inside the gym except the boxing and fighting classes. The Ultimate membership gives you access to everything at the cost of $49 for the enrollment fee, plus $69 a month. Address: 19800 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 420, Torrance, CA 90503 Hours: Open 24 hours every day Contact: (310) 697-8090
The
CRAFT
Automotive instructor Edward Matykiewicz has hopped onto the craft beer wagon
Story and Photos by Ryan Guitare
I
t was the day of liberation: the soft opening of Liberation Brewing Co. on Atlantic Avenue in Bixby Knolls, Long Beach.
The brewery doors were shut with a sign taped to the door, “closed for private event.” Liberation Brewing Co. was available only for members of the craft beer meet-up group, Craft Beer Long Beach. Members of the group congregated at the front door conversing about how excited they were to taste the new beers that Liberation had to offer. The doors swung wide open with punk rock music blasting inside as Craft Beer LB members flowed in. Edward was excited to taste the new beers Liberation had on tap. Each beer had distinct flavors that hit a wide variety of notes, from something light to something dark even adding in the coffee flavor, with more to come. Taking a sip, letting the flavor pallet of the creamy ale spill over his taste buds, Edward begins to describe the flavor of his Mostly Harmless Creme Ale, Edward’s first choice of the three. Gulp. The bitter notes hit the back of his tongue. Within seconds Edward’s eyes open wide. “There it is,” Edward said, the creamy after notes soothe his mouth as the beer spills down the throat. Edward, a craft beer enthusiast who teaches automotive technology at El Camino, was excited to try the other beers they had to offer. There are many hobbies that a person could take part in, ranging from collecting antiques, traveling, extreme sports and even photography or Edward Matykiewicz stands in front of beer kegs as he explains his fascination with craft beer at the soft opening of Liberation Brewing Co. in Long Beach.
47
filmmaking, but one that is exploding is craft beer consumption and brewing.
LB consists of people from “all walks of life,” Edward says.
Just like someone can be a coffee or wine connoisseur, there is an ever-growing society of hobby craft beer drinkers who take tasting to the next level.
“We are always getting new people in (Craft Beer LB), and it is really nice because it’s a chance to not really leave my comfort zone, but to (still) get out and meet new people,” Edward says.
Edward Matykiewicz, 35, is a professor in the Automotive Technology Department at El Camino, has found his hobby in the craft beer scene, visiting breweries all his local area trying all different types of beers and perfecting his craft. During the day, you can find Edward teaching students the nuts and bolts of the car industry at El Camino But by night, Edward is a craft beer enthusiast who takes part in a craft beer meet-up group called Craft Beer LB, that go to breweries all over the Long Beach area, like Liberation Brewing Co. “There has been an exponential growth in the craft beer industry, from 300 breweries in 2012 to over 900 breweries in 2018,” said Leia Ostermann, the Managing Director of California Craft Beer Association, “eleven percent of craft the craft beer industry comes from California.” Craft beer and breweries have exploded all over California, creating craft beer meet-up groups and tasting rooms all over the state. “Within the first week 100 people signed up,” says Dennis Trilles, the founder of Craft Beer LB. Edward was one of the first few members of the group when it was founded in 2016. “It is a gathering of everyone’s hobbies, and passion for the art and craft of brewing,” Edward says. People come from all over the Los Angeles area to take part in the meetups. Craft Beer
Lineup of the beers that liberation Brewing Co. had to offer at the soft opening.
48
In many ways, the craft beer club Edward is apart of also relates to a classroom in a sense that people come from all over to learn about a subject, can bring their own ideas to the table,
“We are always getting new people in (Craft Beer LB), and it is really nice because it’s a chance to not really leave my comfort zone, but to (still) get out and meet new people,” Edward says. and are always wanting to learn. “I am a teacher so I am always dealing with new people, but going in and meeting new people and seeing what they have to bring to the conversation is really, really neat,” Edward says. “There’s so much stuff that comes in and it’s kind of a nice exchange of ideas, and you get to meet really interesting people coming through,”
Being able to share the craft of brewing and the science behind crafting is something Edward enjoys. The meet ups take place at breweries all over the Long Beach area where members of the meet-up group get to taste samples of the beers in a flight, which is a selection of several beers that the brewery offers. Recently, at Liberation they were offering half pours for $4, full pours for $6, and a flight for $5. The beers they had to offer were Mostly Harmless Creme Ale, Learning Curve Coffee Ale, and an Amber Ale called Autonomy. “We want to know what inspired everything of the beer, where did it come from, and what was their thinking and dialogue behind it,” Edward says. The members in the Craft Beer LB Club, including Edward, are not only interested in the product that breweries have to offer, but are also interested in the science and techniques and all the different aspects that go into brewing a craft beer. “We want to meet the brewers, we want to talk to them. They are always wanting to bring the product, but what we want is the brewer,” Edward says. Edward was curious to learn about the beers, while at the same time he wanted to be able to appreciate the hard work that went into making the beer. Before Edward joined the craft beer scene, “drinking was just a social thing after work, or on the weekends with friends and family,” Edward says. After joining the club he had noticed that the meetup aspect really brings the organization to the process of visiting breweries with friends. When Edward was in his 20s, he worked a 9-5 in the automotive industry. Originally from
Automotive Technology teacher, Edward Matykiewicz stands before the beer fermentation takes place at the soft opening of Liberation Brewing Co.
Chicago, going out with his friends to find the good beers was something he did after work or on the weekends.
to co-teach automotive tech with him for almost a year and a half at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, Illinois.
He was in search of the good beers including Blue Moon and Shock Top, along with other wheat beers. “Those were heavy hitters back in the day,” Edward says.
“I knew a lot about auto repair, but I didn’t know a lot about teaching,” Edward says. “It’s a whole new nuance.”
Edward has always had a passion for finding those “heavy hitters,” that really gave that wow factor. He was always looking for new tastes and new opportunities. “I was in the corporate world, I love working the corporate world, I had lots of cash money. I was doing some really crazy projects at the time,” Edward says. He got into what he called “a 5-year rich” where you kind of get settled into the job. He got really good at what he was doing, but was “looking for a way to work [his] way up, or into something new.” Edward was getting interested in opening up new opportunities that could take him further in life. “I got curious about teaching, I really liked a lot of the aspects of teaching,” Edward says. Edward contacted one of his past teachers, William McGrath, who gave him the opportunity
Edward ended up developing and writing some curriculum at Moraine Valley Community College in 2008, and he was able to teach the classes he wrote. “It was a lot of fun,” Edward says. Later he landed a full-time gig at KennedyKing Community College, in Chicago, Illinois to teach automotive technology. But Edward was still looking around for more opportunities and a change of pace. “I was very much in love with the city of Chicago, I would never leave. It was a really great place for me, but I knew that I really needed to expand myself and grasp new opportunities, and try new things,” Edward says. Edward scored a part-time job teaching automotive repair at the College of the Desert in Palm Desert, which started his journey in California, where he was able to continue the crafts of the automotive industry at a college with a “powerhouse” program, Edward says.
It was a really good opportunity for Edward because he said while at a community college in Chicago it was like, “here, is your rock, here is your stick, let’s make auto repair happen,” Edward says. “It was pretty insane how little we had, and what we got done.” He learned a lot but wanted to go back to teaching full time. “I saw a job opening here [at EC] for a full time, I really wanted to go back to full time,” Edward says. “I like part time but it didn’t give me the chance to develop and do as much as I can do.” Two years later, he landed a full-time gig at EC. Edward has now been working at EC for nearly four years now, teaching Automotive Technology. Edward is now focusing on honing in the craft of the automotive industry and helping students fulfill the dream to make the automotive industry a hobby, or even a lifelong career. At the same time, he continues to expand his knowledge of the craft beer industry and stays active with his hobby of consuming craft beers. “It’s been quite a trip getting here, but it has been a lot of fun,” Edward says.
49
Acting and
Activism
Fredonia
Dexter
utilizes
her voice on campus to work toward
gender
equality
and women empowerment through the establishment of the S.H.A.D.E.S. club
Story by Alexa Mancilla Photos by Darwyn Samoya
In a time when supporting and empowering women, no matter what, is vital, Fredonia Dexter undertakes the task of uplifting her female peers--from all walks of life--on the El Camino campus.
50
A
s Fredonia Dexter calls the first-ever S.H.A.D.E.S meeting to order, it is apparent that her positive demeanor is able to command a room.
Her laid-back fashion sense is largely contrasted by her excitable personality; her rally cries for change are quickly heard by all who listen. Her inviting smile makes those around her feel at home and her hearty laugh brings an air of ease and familiarity into any room that she enters. Yet she is a force to be reckoned with. Fredonia is a 22-year-old acting and language/culture studies major at El Camino. Born and raised in Hawthorne, Fredonia grew up close to the entertainment industry and could not help but be attracted by it. But while acting is Fredonia’s dream, many say that her passion is empowering and lifting up women on campus. “I want every woman to know that someone cares, someone’s listening, and we’ve all been (in a similar situation),” Fredonia says. She feels that with today’s political climate, it is vital to support women, especially since “support and positivity for all seem to be on the decline.”
University of British Columbia, wholeheartedly agrees with Fredonia’s outlook on life and appreciates her action to create a space for women, by women.
“Women aren’t the only ones who can be feminists. Anyone who believes in equality and empowerment for all is a feminist,” Fredon ia say s. “The stereotype of the humorless, manhating feminist ... is tired and usually false. Feminists and other social justice activists need to have a good sense of humor,” Janni says. Fredonia says that the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements have also been huge sources of inspiration for her. While she is unhappy to hear the injustices that these men and women had to experience for a dialogue to begin, she is motivated to use her voice for good along with those involved in the movement in Hollywood.
In order to fulfill her desire to support women from all walks of life on campus, Fredonia help found the S.H.A.D.E.S (Supporting Highly Ambitious Divas & Empowering Sisterhoods) club with El Camino’s adjunct counselor Lateaira Boyd.
She understands what the women and men behind the movements are going through; she has experienced sexism and racism in her dayto-day life, and the harsh words take a toll on her. “I think the micro-aggressions (against me) are the ones that sting the most. I know that if it happens to me it is most definitely happening to other women, and I find that quite cruel and unfair and disgusting,” Fredonia says. Some of the micro-aggressions she would experience would be backhanded comments about being beautiful, despite her skin color or “having better grammar than what is stereotypical of black people.” Janni believes that there has always been a trope in society where women are pinned against each other and cannot have genuine and supportive relationships. Creating clubs like S.H.A.D.E.S can not only dispel these incorrect ideas, but it can create a place for different types of women to share their stories and learn more about different experiences.
“S.H.A.D.E.S is necessary for campus life because it provides a safe haven for women to speak on shared issues that (direct) them in their own community within El Camino College and home.” Lateaira Boyd, the club’s adviser, cofounder, and adjunct counselor at El Camino says.
“I wanted this club to act as a safe space for women on campus ... inviting all women no matter their race, culture or background is the most important aspect of the club,” Fredonia says. “I want everyone to see, hear and understand the different points of view on the issues that we are facing as women today.”
Lateaira further expands on the subject of explaining the importance of empowering women on campus, while echoing Fredonia’s viewpoints regarding the club.
While feminism is becoming more and more mainstream with celebrities proudly claiming their involvement in the movement, Fredonia still feels as though it gets a bad rap.
Janni Aragon, an adjunct professor of political science and women’s studies at the
“I hope with the acceptance (with the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements), people will start opening their eyes to all of the injustices of the world. It may seem like a daunting task, but even the smallest step to make a change can help those less fortunate,” Fredonia says.
The club may be small, but the impact is already quite large. With no less than 30 El Camino students at each meeting, Fredonia’s electrifying energy and desire to support other women on campus has spread throughout El Camino.
She desperately wanted to have somewhere for the women of El Camino to share their grievances (or to simply have a place to meet new people). She had never seen anything similar to it on campus and wanted to help change that as quickly as possible.
“Women aren’t the only ones who can be feminists. Anyone who believes in equality and empowerment for all is a feminist,” Fredonia says.
Janni Aragon says that the movements “are part of a reckoning. We are fed up with the status quo and are trying to make a difference.”
“Having the opportunity to address and bring light to issues on campus will ultimately empower and help young women seek change and be the change for young girls and women that follow behind them,” Lateaira says. Fredonia flips through “Ms.” Magazine, a magazine dedicated to getting the public educated in and engaged on women’s issues.
The club leaders hope to do outreach to clubs similar to S.H.A.D.E.S. on other campuses as well as outreach with women’s shelters and schools to speak to young girls about
51
"We all have a voice and we all have things to say, We just need to be loud enough for someone to hear us," Fredonia says.
Fredonia channels Rosie the Riveter as she explains her passion for empowering women from all walks of life. empowerment.
Fredonia says.
The S.H.A.D.E.S. club hopes to create outreach programs with underprivileged women and give them outlets to share their stories as well as provide necessary items for their livelihoods.
Fredonia says that her mother is also one of her greatest inspirations.
“I did research on clubs like S.H.A.D.E.S. on other college campuses and found that they all had very different outlooks on empowering women. I want inclusion in all facets of empowerment for women at El Camino in our club,” Fredonia says. Fredonia hopes that outreach with women’s shelters can bring a sense of understanding as to what those less-fortunate are going through, and a sense of hope to those suffering. As an up-and-coming actress, Fredonia focuses solely on school and works as an extra or on commercials on TV in her free time. When thinking about what type of actress she wants to become in the future, Fredonia looks up to actresses including Emma Stone and Jennifer Lawrence. “In terms of money distribution in Hollywood, there is a huge disparity. Jennifer and Emma use their platforms to spark a change for themselves, and for other women in the industry, as well. It’s very empowering,”
52
“Ever since I can remember, I knew that I wanted to entertain and make people laugh and smile. My mom always took me to plays, which inspired me to want to do the same thing.,” Fredonia says. Fredonia reminisces about times when her mother would take her to plays and movies as a child, and how her mother’s experience and stories about acting in plays made her want to
"I want every woman to know that someone cares, someone's listening, and we've all been (in a similar situation)," Fredonia says. become an actress. Fredonia grew up in a loving, two-parent household in Hawthorne, but her mother is her biggest supporter. “My mom simply wants me to be happy wherever I end up career-wise, but my dad has always wanted me to pursue a career with a more secure schedule and salary,” Fredonia says.
While Fredonia’s mother can’t help but worry about the uncertainty of jobs in the entertainment industry, she understands the appeal of the spotlight. “(The industry) can also be rewarding and fulfilling like a wild but fun roller coaster ride and I’m well aware that if one is bitten and smitten with the performing arts bug, performing (or the pursuit of it) is needed like the air we breathe. We can’t do without it until we’re ready to let it go,” Louvetta says. Fredonia feels that positivity is vital, and the being positive toward oneself and toward others will simply create a happier, safer environment for all. “As humans, it’s our instinct to survive and thrive off living, yet we constantly find ways to bring each other down and harm one another when just living peacefully should be the goal for everyone. I hope as the years continue to go by we will all feel safe and deserving,” While these movements may not be rooted in the most uplifting of topics, Fredonia finds a way to shed a positive light on those affected by it. “Lifting people up and empowering them is so, so important,” Fredonia says. “We all have a voice and we all have things to say, We just need
Fredonia stands behind a fence that symbolizes the wall that she struggles to break through as an African-American woman in society.
53
Behind the Scenes
El Camino’s production manager shares her journey working backstage on various forms of live productions throughout her life Story by Michelle Ohia and Sarah Desmond
R
ain was pouring in a desert location somewhere in California. Nancy Adler found herself in the yellow slicker and rain pants she was required to wear. Over the radio signal, a request was put in by James Earl Jones for a breakfast burrito and coffee. It was Nancy’s duty to trot all the way to the catering area, grab a burrito and a warm coffee, and somehow manage carrying these items along with a walkie talkie to James’ trailer while sheltering them all, and herself, rom the rain. The second assitant director for a major TV movie with an all-star cast, who was in her 20s, finally stood in front of the legendary actor’s trailer door. She knocked and he opened its door. She did everything she could do keep her composure as she handed James his food. He thanked her and closed the door. Nancy stood there and something came over her. No, she was not starstruck by the actor, although she found him quite charming. Instead, Nancy, as she stood there in the rain, thought to herself, “for this I went to college.” Nancy came to realize that she was not fond of the television and film world as she craved to feel as if she was contributing to the art, yet didn’t feel as if she did in her current position. It was then she realized she just had to go back to ther first love: theatre. Years later, Nancy, who is now 62, did just that. She crawled up the ladder in her career working on the backstage happenings of theatre production that include plays and musicals. Today, she is El Camino’s Center of The Arts production manager and has produced over 50 shows here at El Camino. Before acquiring this position at El Camino, Nancy not only had experience in theatre, but was somewhat born into it. She was born in New York City, the city
54
Photos by David Gonzalez
that takes pride in Broadway, the mecca of musicals. A year after she was born, her family moved to London. There Nancy was exposed to children’s theatre. She fell in love with one play in particular and that was “Peter Pan”. Nancy also had a puppet theatre where she would put on shows for guests at the house.
“The average person doesn’t know this. They just think, voila, there’s a show on the stage,” Nancy says. “Months, in fact years, of preparation can go into a play.” When she was 12, the family moved back to New York and Nancy finished her schooling there, where she got the lead role in the high school’s musical. Nancy first started as a drama major in hopes of one day becoming a professional actress for the television screen or theatre, even snatching some acting gigs and roles in her early days. However, as time passed, Nancy became
fascinated with directing and decided to pursure this. After her realization that the TV and film industry was not her cup of tea, Nancy ran back to theatre. She began to add to her experiences by working in the backstage of a theatre as freelance stage director. Before long, Nancy acquired a job at the Shubert Theatre in Century City that no longer stands today, which was a big break for her. Her job was to call the popular musical “Cats” as a substitute stage manager. This meant, that while the main stage manager was on vacation, Nancy’s job was to take over and run the show in his absence. “Calling the ques” or “calling the show” is the stage managers role in the production — the goal is to que evey part of the show at the proper time. “You tell the lights when to go, the sound when to go, the special effects when to go,” Nancy says. The stage manager usually sits in a booth, sometimes in front or on the side of the theatre, watching over the entire show. “You’re kind of like an air traffic controller, people say,” Nancy says. “And you’re running everything. You start the show, you finish it.” “You deal with emergencies,” Nancy continues. Nancy recalls a moment where she had to stop a show becuse the curtains had gone down and the actress was standing a tad bit too far front that the curtain fell on her. It was a learning experience for Nancy. Eventually, Nancy was asked to go on tour all over the United States calling “Cats” where she enjoyed the perks of visiting many states and cities. She found Miami Beach a lot of fun. Later, she as stage manager for shows at the Shubert, such as Les Miserables, as well as others. And later became a production stage
manager at the Long Beach Civic Light Opera. After all this, the opportunity to become production manager fell into her lap when a friend of hers met up for lunch one day. He previously had this job and had told her about it. She was impressed by the opportunity to still work on backstage happenings while acquiring a steady income. Being a freelance backstage manager was a rough road, so the production managing position at El Camino sounded appealing to her. When her friend had retired, he contacted her letting her know that position was available. She applied and got the job. It all happened ideally for her because it was around the time she got engaged and few years later married and had her daughetr. Nancy has now been the production manager for El Camino’s Center of the Arts for 23 years and is thriving. Nancy says that the backstage elements and planning are just as important as the actors on stage. “The average person doesn’t know this. They just think, voila, there’s a show on the stage,” Nancy says. “Months, infact years, of preparation can go into a play.”
At El Camino, the Center of the Arts division hosts one musical and three plays every year. Nancy’s job is to produce the play with the budget given to the division by the school. She also helps in coordinating a team to work on each production with the help of faculty. Nancy says she would not be able to do her job without her fellow full-time colleagues Ron Scarlarta and Bill Georges. Together they all come up with titles, in other words, original plays or musicals that they would like to reproduce. “In choosing titles, I want to make sure we can afford it. I want to make sure we have the rights to do it. I have to apply for the royalties,” Nancy says. However, sometimes the rights do not get approved for one reason or another. “For instance, we wanted to produce “‘Chicago: The Musical’ last year, but we were denied the rigths,” Nancy says. So it’s back to the drawing board, Nancy says, and they have a few titles in mind and are hopeful. When things go well and a title is finalized, Nancy then works with faculty to put a team together.
The first person to be picked is the director of the production. After that, all the designers, from prop designers to costume designers, are picked and the casting calls begin. Nancy says when putting a team together it she always hopes to bring together a group of people that work well together and who is compatible to the type of production and genre they are putting on. “It’s a little bit psychology and weighing personalities of people in their specific skills,” Nancy says. “Some light designers are better at lighting darker gloomy pieces. And others do well doing a happy show for instance. It doesn’t mean they (both) couldn’t do both, but I try to weigh all those factors.” After this, they enter into pre-production mode, which is crafting and preparing for the play or musical. Nancy can finally breathe once all is done and the first show is put on. She says that the final product all thanks to team effort. Nancy could not tell you what her favorite show she has produced on campus is. “It’s like saying who’s your favorite child,” Nancy says.
55
Finding Wendy
A woman loses herself in an abusive relationship and rediscovers herself once she leaves it, testifying there is life after abuse Story by Sarah Desmond Photos by Jaimie Woods
J
ust like that, the empty whisky glass went flying and hits the wall behind her. 20-year-old Wendy Mata finds herself stunned in place, on her feet,
with shards of glass shattered over her body and tacked into the wavy strands of her hair. Suddenly, a physical fight breaks out between her and her then boyfriend, Lewis. It’s now been over 10 plus years since this day, so she has trouble rehashing the details. Yet she distinctly remembers the ringing in her ears and the vibrating of her head that ran through her body instantly following this: Whack. He slaps her on the side of the head. She attempts to fight back. He hits her again. And then leaves. He leaves her there, alone, with her worth feeling just as shattered as the glass that crumbled over her. “I couldn’t believe I was someone who just got hit by a guy,” Wendy, now 33, says as she recalls the incident. Wendy is among the many women in the United States who find themselves in an abusive relationship and have trouble leaving it.
56
Wendy poses at Redondo Beach Pier, a place she used to come as a child that she now goes to with her boyfriend and son.
However, Wendy has survived the abuse and is now pursuing child development at El Camino College in hopes of becoming a teacher.
She says that the first year of their relationship was a “rollercoaster” and that it happened “really quickly”.
Although she doesn’t look fondly back at her past relationship, she has learned from it and hopes that others can learn from her story as well and discover that there is life after abuse.
It all began after she had found a piece of paper in the glove compartment of her car. He had written his number on it and had given it to her a couple months earlier when they had bumped into each other at the DMV.
“I couldn’t believ e I w a s someone who just got hit by a guy,” Wendy says. It took many, many years and ups and downs fr Wendy to reach the place she is now. Yet in the beginning, it all began innocently. Wendy had met her ex-boyfriend, who we will call Lewis to respect his privacy, when she was 13 but didn’t begin dating him until she was 20.
She decided to call him and that lead to them hanging out. It then had them eventually hooking up. This was the invitation to spend every waking moment together. They were inseparable, Wendy says. Wendy was head over heels in love with him. However, Wendy’s parents didn’t approve of her relationship with Lewis. Yet she ignored their warning calls and within a year of dating Lewis she moved out. She did not want to deal with their disapproval of him and their relationship. The couple moved in together in a friend’s house, occupying one of the rooms. This is where the abuse began. Although the relationship went uphill as fast as it went downhill, it took a long time for Wendy to exit the ride. This only prolonged the abuse. “It’s one of those things where I just felt powerless,” Wendy says.
There was a time when Wendy did want the “white dress” wedding. Yet, her past relationship still haunts her she says.
Lewis not only abused her physically, throwing punches and such, but he also verbally put her down. He told her that no one would love her and that he was doing her a service being her boyfriend.
then made the decision to go back to school for this reason.
Wendy admits that she was blinded and could not differentiate between true love and obsession.
Wendy watches Andrew now, as he holds hands with their 6-year-old son, Anthony Cadiz, and walks him down the Redondo Beach Pier. They point at animals and other interesting things along the scenery of the Pacific Ocean.
Wendy and Andrew have a strong bond despite her fear. And he feels he can understand Wendy in that regard because he grew up in a household where his stepfather physically beat his mother.
She strolls along the pier a little ahead of them, the wind hitting her face causing her
“I find her (Wendy) strong that she went through all that stuff,” Andrew says. “To me, the guy (Lewis) is scumbag. I don’t condone it (the way he treated Wendy). To me, you’re the lowest form of a human being if you hit a woman. I can’t stand that.”
But there was something else that held her back from leaving the relationship: Wendy had given up her virginity to him. “I was really torn between the intelligent part of me and the really dumb part of me. I just wanted to make this relationship work because I (gave) my virginity to this guy.” Wendy says. “I grew up in a family where my parents had been together forever and I wanted that.” Their friends referred to Wendy as “his old lady” and they told her everything she was experiencing was “normal” when Wendy learned that Lewis had been cheating on her. She knew something wasn’t right with this. But Wendy could not help but stay with Lewis because of how she felt that she loved him as well as the guilt of giving up her virginity to him. Her friends solidified this decision by telling her that she was his “main girl” and the others were just “side chicks”. They made her certain that she was the one who he was going to marry. But in the midst of it all, her identity was lost. “Wendy didn’t exist,” she says. “I didn’t (exist). All I was, was his girlfriend. That’s it. And that’s how people knew me. That’s how I knew myself.” As the physical and verbal abuse prolonged, Wendy grew to hate Lewis. Yet a large part of her was convinced she still loved him. Finally, after various attempts of realizing that a perfect relationship would not happen between them, she left the relationship. Being kissed by another guy made her realize that she wasn’t “unwanted” as her ex would tell her. Since then, Wendy has thrived and has discovered who she is and says that it has been a long process finding herself. In some ways, it was a rediscovering of herself. Wendy had always wanted to help people in one way or another and had considered going into the medical field. However, being a teacher became appealing to her. Wendy never went to college, yet many of the job offers for being a teacher required that the applicant have a bachelor’s degree. She
Wendy is not only succeeding in this area of life, she has also found her soulmate, 30-yearold Andrew Cadiz.
“Wendy didn’t exist,” Wendy says. “I didn’t (exist). All I was, was his girlfriend. That’s it. And that’s how people knew me. That’s how I knew myself.” vibrant colored-red hair to fly through the air. She smiles fondly as she turns her head and body to face them. There was a time when Wendy’s parents would take her and her six siblings to the Redondo Beach Pier to eat churros at Pier Bakery. She says it “feels good” to visit the pier now with her son and boyfriend and buy as
“I’m a little terrified of ‘forever’,” Wendy admits. many churros as she likes. When asked how she feels, she says, “happy”. In October, Andrew and Wendy hit the 8 year mark of their relationship. Andrew, like Wendy, is also a student at El Camino and studies air conditioning. When looking at them, because of how they have been together over 7 years and have a child together, one might mistake them for a married couple.
“I’m a little terrified of ‘forever’,” Wendy admits.
The one thing that made Wendy stay with Andrew is that he has a chill demeanor and they can sit and be content with however their day goes; even if it’s just sitting in bed all day. Their opposites in many ways, Wendy says, yet they balance each other out. “I don’t think we have the perfect relationship, but it’s perfect for us,” Wendy says. The couple each have their son’s name tattooed on their bodies. Andrew has its letters A-N-T-H-O-N-Y going down his arm vertically and Wendy has it printed on the back of her shoulder. Wendy is content with her status in life and feels grateful finally being Wendy. She looks at her past as a lesson, yet some part of her can’t believe that that girl who was in an abusive relationship years ago, was her. Wendy recalls the last night she spent with Lewis as his girlfriend. The last night she experienced abuse from Lewis. She drives the car, Lewis sitting shotgun, as they make their way home after hanging out with some friends. He was upset because he learned that Wendy had been seeing another guy the last time they were on a break from their relationship. He’s drunk as he goes off about other girls he’s involved with and saying he shouldn’t have gotten back with Wendy. He threatens to grab the wheel. Wendy firmly responds. “Tomorrow...tomorrow, you won’t remember this, but I promise you, I will,” she says to Lewis, tears in her eyes and pain in her heart. “Tomorrow things will be different.” She drops him off on a curb somewhere because she could not handle it any longer. And that’s when Wendy drives off down the road. A road to re-discovering herself. A road to finding Wendy.
57 Warrior Life Spring ‘18
57
Life after abuse does exist. Wendy, who is an affectionate woman enjoys the day eating churros at the bakery where her parents used to take her as a kid. Now she visits the bakery on the Redondo Beach Pier with her current boyfriend Andrew Cadiz and son Anthony Cadiz.
58
Detect if you’re i n a n a bu s i ve relationship:
E
very relationship is different and abuse in one relationship can differ from another. Absue also comes in various forms, such as physical or sexual. It can also be emotional in the form of verbal abuse. Below are only a few of the many signs that one can look for to tell if you are in an abusive relationship and how you should go about matters to get out of one. The information below was given to Warrior Life by one of El Camino’s psychologists, Dr. Victoria Kwon.
Signs you’re in abusive relationship
drives recklessly while you are in the car or forces you to drink and/or do drugs. SEXUAL ABUSE • Your partner doesn’t respect your wishes to use contraceptions. • Your partner forces you to engage in physical intimate practices when you do not wish to. EMOTIONAL • Your partner criticizes or insults you. • Your partner wants to know what you are doing at all times. • Your partner isolates you from friends or family. • Your partner controls your appearance and behavior.
Steps to take after the realization that you are in an abusive an relationship
COMMON SIGNS to look for when questioning if you are in an abusive relationship are: PHYSICAL ABUSE • Your partner puts you in harms way: Example 1) If your partner pushes you, kicks you, hits you with or without an object. Example 2) If your partner purposely
1
) is to secure one’s safety.
This includes yourself and children (if you have any). You can do this by removing yourself from the situation by going to a friend’s house or calling authorities.
2
) is to seek support.
This comes from professionals as well as friends and family. One of the goals is to have a community to be a support and to
prevent oneself isolation.
3
)Contact resources and assistance. Here are a few:
NATIONAL LEVEL • Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 (800) 799-7233 is available 24/7 and offers help to the victim including the abuser. Provides help in English and Spanish and for deaf or the partially deaf individuals. LOCAL to EL CAMINO • 1736 Family Crisis Center Contact: (213) 745-6436 •
Women’s Shelter of Long Beach: Contact: (562) 437-4663 Both offer a 24/7 helpline, seeking support, emergency housing and financial and vehicle aid. In addition, El Camino College also provides assistance from the Student Health Services at the Health Center on campus. The Health Center can give a student in an abusive relationship the medical attention, depending on the severity if the abuse, that they need or direct them to someone who can. The Health Center also has a staff of psychologists who provide six free sessions per year to not only students in an abusive relationship, but students in general to help foster a healthy life.
59
Latte to... It’s Never too
...explore these four indie coffee shops near El Camino Story and Photos by Sarah Desmond
M
aybe you’re a student and you’ve got an exam coming up and need to find a new place to study or perhaps you’re a professor looking for a nice spot to grade the stack of papers you just recieved. Or it’s possible you’re neither of these and you simply wish to relax and drink some heartwarming coffee. Here are a four independent coffee shops near El Camino that you may have not explored yet. Enjoy.
1
) HI-FI ESPRESSO
Jeff Paul and his wife Karen recentlu openend this coffee shop on a stretch in Hermosa. They pride themselves in selling high quality coffee, or high fidelity coffee, which is where the name for their shop was born from. The bright walls give off a modern feel and a clean environment. They are a shop that strives to be environmentally friendly, using straws that are made of recycled items. Although small, it is a clean environment to do some studying or have a chat with a friend. It also has free Wi-Fi. Address: 227 Pacific Coast Hwy Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Hours: open Sunday - Monday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: message them via Yelp
2
) CHU THONG COFFEE SHOP
Looking for some authentic Vietnamese
60
A warm cup of latte served to please with the coffee art at Hi-Fi Espresso. coffee? Here, at Chu Thong, you can order a variety of milk coffees and teas with the option of tapioca balls also known as boba. It’s a small coffee shop that has character with the beckoning cat sitting on the counter to greet you and other decorations including an aquarium adding to the decorative elements. They serve their coffees and teas in a glass bottle just like how they do in Vietnam. It’s sustainable and it allows the customer to shake the bottle and mix the milk and coffee together at her/his own leisure. Free Wi-Fi available. Address: 14770 Crenshaw Blvd Gardena, CA 90249 Hours: open Monday - Saturday from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Contact: (310) 780 - 9284
3
) TWO GUNS ESPRESSO
This quaint coffee shop has the whole kaboodle of choices of coffee. What makes this place a little different from others is that the wife of the couple who owns the coffee shop also has a gallery next door that offers seating for the coffee shop. There is jewelry, art and other things on display such as hand crafted items that inidvisuals may purchase. It’s a great place to come have coffee and have a chat with friends. Free Wi-Fi available. Address: 351 Main St. El Sugundo, CA 90245 Hours: open 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Sundays, which opens at 7 a.m.
Phone: (310) 640-7681
4
) OLD TORRANCE COFFEE AND TEA
Quaint and a coffee shop with character, this little gem located in Old Torrance, a little area that holds on to the history of Torrance, is the ideal place for solitude and a cup of warm coffee. The walls are decorated in intricate pieces of art. Cozy sofas are arranged, the cieling tall giving the impression that there is more room than there is. On Thursday night, they have an openmic night outside in front of the coffee shop. Free Wi-Fi aalso available. Address: 1413 Marcelina Ave, Torrance, CA 90501 Hours: open Monday - Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact: (424) 558-8050
Coffee and milk served in a glass milk bottle, Chu Thong’s label pasted oon the
CAMPUS at
NIGHT A photo essay by Justin Traylor
61
T
he day is coming to an end. As the studnents begin to shuffle to their cars, leaving behind piles of work and stress for another day, the campus is sits sliently that one could hear a pen drop from a mile away. The cats are running free and the custodians are getting classrooms ready for the next day. this is the campus of El Camino College at night.
62
1. A top view from parking Lot C over looking the once-crowded Student Services Building. 2. Parking Lot C’s El Camino emblem illuminates the night sky. 3. The tinted black windows make Marsee Auditorium look very mysterious at 10p.m. 4. Nothing but echoes surround the Communications Building at night. 5. A panoramic shot of the now-deserted El Camino campus. 6. The Pathway of Freedom is lit heading toward the front of campus. 7. A top view from parking Lot H looking over the sand courts and the soccer field.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7. 63
An Unbreakable Bond
Young man moves across the U.S. to be a companion to an elderly woman who makes him look at life in a new light along with a circle of individuals who lives in her estate Story by Sarah Desmond Photos by Jack Kan and Jorge Villa
64
Helene and Hunter sharing a moment as they fist bump eachother over breakfast. Photo by Jorge Villa.
65
E
agerly yet reluctantly, a young, blonde-haired man steps through the gate of the Palos Verdes estate. He surveys the house in front of him and eyes the glass door that sits partially open. He doesn’t think twice and walks straight to it. The glass door was the entrance to the estate’s kitchen. His shoes make contact with the hard, cold kitchen floor. He notices a walker propped up next to the counter. Inside the walker sits a small womn whose hair was colored a light brown, yet her skin was decorated with age. She faces the counter with a bowl of steaming oatmeal before her and her arm lifts with a spoonful for a bite. A rush of anticipation runs over Hunter as he abruptly picks up pace and makes his way next to the woman. He extends his hand out to introduce himself. Startled, she looks up at him taking in his 6-foot frame and deep blue eyes. At this point, the warm mushy texture of oatmeal goes down the wrong way and Helene Denton begins to choke. The 18-year-old Virginian, who had left everything he had ever known on the other side of the country to find himself standing standing next to the woman who has opened her home to him, freaks out. “Oh my God, she’s dying,” Hunter thinks as he pats her on the back to bring her relief. It has been three years since Hunter and Helene’s initial meeting, and the two of them have developed an unbreakable bond. Hunter, now 22 and studying political science at El Camino College, is still uncertain about the course of his life. However, he learns from Helene, 95, and the circle of people who lives in her estate that what is more important than the destination is the journey. In addition to studying at El Camino, he is on the debate team and a member of student government. In Helene’s house, Hunter sits to the left side of Helene as she sits at the head of the kitchen table in her wheelchair. Hunter curls his fingers into a tight fist and holds it out to Helene. She obliges by curling her tiny, frail yet dainty fingers mimicking his fists. Mustering all the strength a woman her age could and more, she hits him with her best jab. A fist bump -- this is how the two greet each other. Hunter says that he and Helene hit it off since they were both talkers. They could spend
66
hours chatting from about anything from sports, particularly football, to the stories of her past, like her marriage to WWII bomber pilot, William J. Denton, who later became an airline pilot. Hunter and Clarita Ong, the main caregiver, sometimes bring out pictures to get her to talk
A rush of anticipation runs over Hunter as he abruptly picks up pace and makes his way next to the lady. He extends his hand out to introduce himself. Startled, she looks up at him taking in his 6-foot frame and deep blue eyes. At this point, the warm mushy texture of oatmeal goes down the wrong way and Helene Denton begins to choke. about her life. In the kitchen of Helene’s estate, just enough light cascades across the plain kitchen table, where books and pictures were stacked about. There a scattered visual timeline of Helene showcases the long 95 years of her life. Helene, who is couched in a wheelchair as her hooded eyes run over the timeline in front of her, does not say much. At first. Suddenly a flow of memories and moments escape Helene’s lips. In a low, raspy, yet melodious tone she begins to share her experiences. One photo in particular grabs her attention.
She pinches the paper image with her tiny, shaking fingers and brings it up to her face to take a better look at it as her elbows stable themselves on the armrest of her wheelchair. In this black and white time capsule, she is standing with her groom on their wedding day. Her slender body is draped in a satin-like gown that had been sewn by her mother. Alongside the bride and groom were the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Hunter, who sits to Helene’s right side, faces her and notices the image. “(Was) his mom a Texan and she wanted him to marry a Texan girl?” Hunter asks. “Yes,” Helene replies. “She wore a black dress to our wedding.” “She wanted him to marry a Texas girl, a Texas girl.” Helene continues, “But he told her ‘sorry, mom, I don’t want to marry her, I don’t want to marry the Texas girl, the Texas girl, the Texas girl, the Texas girl. I just want to marry, marry, marry, marry...’” Helene trails off as she attempts to find the right words to finish her thought. “Helene,” Clarita offers. “This gal,” Helene says, referring to herself. Hunter and Clarita laugh affectionately towards Helene. “This gal...it’s like somethin’ out of a movie,” Hunter says. Hunter, too, lives something out of a movie, such as the “picturesque town” of Mechanicsville, Virginia where he had grown up. He left the familiar sounds and souls he grew up with in Mechanicsville to enter into the diverse, congested world of Los Angeles county, inhaling the Pacific Ocean breeze from the balcony of Helene’s Palos Verdes estate. On the bottom living spaces of the estate, before Hunter’s arrival, individuals had already been a part of the Helene’s household. The individuals include a couple who are both U.S. tour guides. The girlfriend, Ria, is from Germany, and she came first in the early ‘90s and used the bottom living spaces of Helene’s estate. Later her boyfriend, Eric, who’s from Guatemala, joined her. In addition, the main caregiver for Helene, Clarita Ong, also brings spirit to the home whenever she’s around. Another occupant, James, who is Helene’s
Helene and Hunter enjoy a morning together. Helen has a heavty breakfast of toast, ham, strawberries and ccumbers and reads the LA Times as she usually does. Photo taken by Jorge Villa.
Helene and Hunter hold hands as she chatters away with him right outside the glass door of her estate’s kitchen. Photo by Jack Kan.
67
Helene Denton on her wedding day with late husband William J. Denton, U. S. veteran and bomber pilot who served in WWII. They are surrounded by family and friend who were present as their bridesmaids and groomsmen. In the photo, Helene is wearing a satin-like gown sewed by her mother. Photo by Jorge Villa.
The United States flag that was folded in honor of William J. Denton’s funeral who served as a bomber pilot during WWII. It is now encapsed inside a glass case and sits on a table to the left as you enter Helene’s estate through the front chocolate bar-like doors. Photo by Jorge Villa.
68
60-year-old nephew, holds partial responsibility for bringing these people and Hunter into the household. “Quite honestly, I feel like I try to maintain a good quality life for her (Helene) because I was out of the country and I couldn’t (be), and I wasn’t, there for my mom when she needed it,” James says. Helene and James mother were sisters. James believes that the elderly should have people they can connect with often. Therefore, he brought into the house Ria in the 90s. But because Ria was a tour guide and was often not around, and with himself being busy as well, he believed that Helene needed a more attentive and available companion. One day Helene found herself in a hit-andrun accident. She was driving when she got hit. She fortunately didn’t suffer any injuries, but this ceased her driving days. Around the same time, Hunter was finishing up high school. He says he didn’t take his studies seriously and that he was the class clown. “I was in all kinds of trouble,” Hunter says. “I would just do stupid stuff and goof off.” He thus let his grades drop. By the time graduation came around the corner, Hunter realized it was too late to turn things around. He had no idea what he wanted to do next; what direction he should take. With James’ encouragement, Bill, Helene’s son who lives in Richmond, got in touch with Hunter and asked him to come out to California and take community college courses here while being the chauffeur to his mom. “In my wildest dreams, I never envisioned myself flying out to California,” Hunter says. “But all of a sudden, there’s this chance.” Out of the blue, the opportunity to come out to live in California, a “mystical place” as he says, appears and Hunter accepts it with no hesitation. Hunter recalls the view of “unbelievable sights of nothing” as he and his father drove across the country from Virginia to California. “I did not try in high school. I was a troublemaker. I liked to goof off and have fun. I did not care about my grades. And so I let my grades slide,” Hunter says. During his senior year, Hunter came to two realizations: one, that he enjoyed school; and two, he can speak in front of people.
Hunter says that in Virginia, the main mindset of the people there are conservative. “I move here, (and the) ideologies are mainly
It’s a faster life here, but a life he has gotten used to quickly especially because of the people he has met. Especially the people who live in Helene’s estate. “I consider them my second family,” Hunter says. liberal,” Hunter says, “I find myself in the middle of (stance) of many things. It’s because I’ve known people on one side and people on the other people.” Hunter finds that in LA people live a faster pace of life than in Mechanicsville. Although he feels blessed to be here in California, nothing can compare to where he was raised. It’s a faster life here, but a life he has gotten used to quickly especially because of the people he has met. Especially the people who live in Helene’s estate. “I consider them my second family,” Hunter says. Hunter says that it’s very much like a TV show and that there’s always an anecdote to tell. One “hilarious” account is the time Helene had began using her walker, Hunter recalls. Her son Don who was visiting at the time had made some changes to the home to make it easier and safer for her to use it round the house. Helene didn’t like change and she wasn’t too happy when she saw her rug missing one day. Then the next, her bedroom doors went missing. Yet her son would not budge and put the doors back on when she made it clear to him that we wanted them back. Then one day, when the son was out of the house, Hunter was in his bedroom on the phone with his dad, when he hears a… Tap...tap...tap
He makes his way to his bedroom door and opens it, and who should he see but Helene Denton herself standing there. She looks up at him and says, “young man, I need to get my doors.” “What, Ms. Denton,” Hunter fumbles over his words, uncertain if he should listen to her or uphold her son’s orders. “Now, help me get my doors back,” she demands. With hesitation, Hunter finds Ria and tells her, “she wants me to put the doors back and I don’t think we’re supposed to.” Both Ria and Hunter were bewildered. “If you don’t help me, I’ll bring them myself,” Helene says. “I think it’s that feistiness inside of her,” James says. “If you don’t help me, I’ll bring them myself,” Helene says. This independence in Helene is something that Hunter strives to have. Taking the step to come out here and start going to school at El Camino has opened the doors to that. Back in Mechanicsville, it was hard for Hunter to be an individual he says. People back home know what a good person his father is. And they know his twin brother and what an ambitious football player he is. Hunter had this part of him that wanted to live up to their greatness; a battle that he was losing he says. A way out of this battle was what he needed. “I was kind of living in a dual shadow. And all (of) a sudden I can move somewhere and I can be the only Elam.” As much as Hunter is glad that he can now explore his individuality, he says that he wouldn’t be the man today if it wasn’t for his father and the rest of his family. “I’m blessed to say Rodney and Sandy Elam are my parents,” Hunter says. Yet he never knew “true responsibility” until he was acquainted with Helene Denton. Hunter became more than just a guy who was brought out to drive a lady around. He was there to be a companion and to be sensitive to the needs of a lady who had lived a long life. In return, she awakened something in him that his life would be over before he would know it. Hunter says that he recalls when Helene
69
once told him “it feels like I was your age just a blink of an eye ago” and how that has stuck in his mind. “I think I feel young, but before I know it I’ll be in her situation,” Hunter says. Although Helene is 95 years old, she is striving for her age. Clarita, the caregiver, came in full time just in the nick of time to help improve Helene and her health and to keep her active. Back here in California, Clarita sees Hunter as somewhat a son to her and Hunter sees her as a motherly figure. “She stays on me about school,” Hunter says. But Hunter looks up to Clarita in other ways, such as the selfless being she is and the life she brought out of Helene. Clarita has been Helene’s caregiver for over a year now and stumbled onto the opportunity by covering a shift for her friend. She met Helene on Helene’s 93rd birthday. It happened that her friend who was a part-time caregiver for Helene needed someone to cover her shift for three days, so Clarita offered herself. She took care of Helene for six hours for each two days, and 12 hours for the third day, and by then Helene’s son knew that he wanted to hire her. “Dealing with human lives – it’s very important,” Clarita says. “And taking care of (the) elderly is my first love.” Clarita recalls the first time she ever felt the “heart warming” feeling of taking care of someone. When she was in the fifth grade, she went to visit her grandfather who was living alone because he was ill. She stayed there that day and cooked and fed him. She says that since then she knew this is what she enjoyed; taking care of people. It began when she was young in the Philippines. Carita has helped Helene in ways that they could not imagine. Before Clarita was introduced into the home, Helene went through a tough time where she began to fall ill and was taken to the hospital and then the rehabilitation center. At the rehabilitation center, no one had Helene walking and they simply confided her to her wheelchair with the mentality that this was her fate. When Helene was put into hospice. Her sons had her come home she was weak and didn’t walk at all and didn’t talk much. When Clarita came, she not only took care
70 Warrior Life Spring ‘18 70
of Helene, but she knew that somewhere in Helene there was still more in her. So Clarita had Helene sing to help her speak. And she had Helene walk little by little everyday with a walker, until Helene had more strength. “If anybody deserves a VIP (pass) to heaven, it’s that woman,” Hunter says. “You have to love your job and you have to be patient,” Clarita says.“Dealing with human life is everything. And I love to do it. I really do.”
Hunter says that in Virginia, the main mindset of the people there are conservative. “I move here, (and the) ideologies are mainly liberal,” Hunter says, “I find myself in the middle of (stance) of many things. It’s because I’ve known people on one side and people on the other people.” One of the exercises that she does with Helene to improve her speech that Hunter often participates in is singing. Back at in the estate, the entire kitchen is filled with melodious vocals of “Que, Sera Sera,” by Doris Day. Clarita and Hunter sing as they encourage Helene to participate. Helene obliges and her little voice starts to sing along. From time to time, her voice carries and rises above the room. They sing another song where Clarita and Hunter say, “the little ducks go…” and Helene finishes the line with “Quack, quack! Quack,
quack!” They also sing another song called “Father Emily” and “Pick up the Piece of Love”. Music seems to be a big part of the house. Clarita, who has a son around Hunter’s age is studying to be a nurse back in the Philippines who also sings as a hobby. A little after the singing session, Hunter starts to feel hungry and decides to go to Trader Joe’s. He goes for the sandwich wraps. He says that his routine is to go to school and Trader Joe’s and to drink a lot of coffee. He commutes back and forth to El Camino to PV. He doesn’t mind the 30-minutedrive. He uses that time to listen to the radio and then argue with it to keep himself entertained. Hunter is a political science major and identifies as an independent although he would easily identify as a Republican as well. He spends much of his time in student government where he serves as senator of behavioral and social sciences as well as being a part of the debate team on campus. Both of these experiences Hunter says he is passionate about. Hunter would love to one day be president of the United States, but has not solidified any plans to get there. He is more interested in taking things day by day and really soaking up the moments in life. If there is anything that Hunter feels he has learned from Helene during his stay here is that she has taught him patience. “Let me tell ya something,” Hunter says. “When you’re dealing with a person in their 90s, when they say 5 minutes, you better add an hour to that 5 minutes.” Hunter explains that he would call out to her when they’d have to go somewhere and say, “Ms. Denton, are we going to leave any time soon?” And Helene would respond, “Just five minutes.” And hours or so later he would say the same thing and she would respond in the same way. And this determined for Hunter that that moment at the kitchen table, when she had choked on her oatmeal on that initial meeting, that there was something to benefit Hunter in his life. “What seemed like a bad omen, was that (moment). Hunter says. “But it wasn’t.”
Helene waves at the camera as she hits in the glassdoor doorway of her estate. Photo by Jack Kan.
Hunter pose on a sofa in Helene’s sitting room chanelling the U.S. president in him. Photo by Jack
71
72