Volume 77, Issue 14 | www.elaccampusnews.com | Wednesday, March 3, 2021 | Single copy free - additional copies 50 cents
Black Lives Matter resilient in racial inequity AAOI encourages students of color to persevere despite COVID pandemic BY BREANNA FIERRO Staff Writer The fight for racial equity continues as students of color are disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Los Angeles Community College District Vice Chancellor of Educational Programs and Institutional Effectiveness Ryan Cornner, commended the African American Outreach Initiative (AAOI) for making it their goal to work toward students and communities. Cornner said people need to go beyond supporting the communities during times of crisis, at AAOI’s 2021 Black History Month Celebration. He said to set a goal to begin dismantling systems that have generated the inequities in times of crisis and in times of normalcy. He met with Chancellor Francisco C. Rodriguez, Co-Founder and Vice President of A2MEND Dr. Edward Bush, AAOI coordinator Nyree Berry, LA C C D s tudent s pea ke rs and staff from the other eight LACCD colleges. “The current struggles remain clear. The systemic and structural barriers that are in place have prevented us from being able to effectively serve our communities and achieve our equity goals,” Cornner said. LACCD student Da’Quinn Shepherd led the student
“Black people have to work twice as hard to get ahead or to be successful, and as a Black gay man, I felt that way, even within.” AIGNER ELLIS
LACC Student
CN/ANDREA CERNA
dialogue on deconstructing the black monolithic. He said he feels like those around him ignore getting to know him first. Instead, they judge him by his ethnic background, when those judging tend to culturally appropriate their culture. Shepherd also said students should do their research before making any decisions, especially
politics, not jumping to conclusions to conduct research to change the world. The speech was followed with a poetry reading by LACCD student Sherry Bradford on her life and journey as a young African American girl to the present day and a deconstruction of the black monologue by LACC student Aigner Ellis.
“Black people have to work twice as hard to get ahead or to be successful, and as a Black gay man, I felt that way, even within,” Ellis said. AAOI coordinator Nyree Berry introduced Edward Bush as co-author of the AfricanAmerican male theory before he took over to discuss the critical juncture in the African American
community and those of color. With the LACCD being the largest College district in the nation, Bush said he doesn’t take lightly the position of influence those of African descent and those of color have right now, nor should anyone else, to view it as an immense responsibility, and due to the complexities associated with the district if
they are able to figure it out. “One thing that drives me to do this work is not out of my own intrinsic idea, it’s because I recognize first and foremost that I have a debt that must be repaid. That when our ancestors died, they knew directly that they would not benefit from the struggle and sacrifice,” Bush said. “But they wanted to do the work because they knew at some point you were going to come along and wanted to make sure you were in the position you are now in order to make a difference.” Dr. Bush said to challenge the policies that stand, that the community of color knows to be deleterious, to understand that no matter what AfricanAmericans and those of color do, they are operating at a point of righteousness and that they are going to be okay.
Lack of unity, procedures leaves in person returns in disarray Future uncertain for in-person instruction BY PAUL MEDINA Staff Writer Many levels of East Los Angeles College faculty and staff failed to reach a consensus on the appropriate actions to take for the return for in-personclasses at the Shared Governance Council meeting (ESGC). The meeting on Zoom Feb. 22, brought together an array of ELAC personnel who reported and discussed pressing matters pertaining to the college’s governance. Amongst the several concerns, the topics of COVID-19, vaccinations and mask wearing were discussed. Dean Paulina Palomino said “some of us would choose to be immunized, some of us would not, but we all have this right for public health and safety. “We should all feel safe, whether we are staff members or students. I almost feel like it’s not enough to allow for a higher entity to make this decision without us making a recommendation. “We are a big entity, LACCD. It just does not feel appropriate. I myself am going to be vaccinated as soon as I can,” Palomino said. Despite the importance of the vaccine in helping to eradicate the COVID-19 virus, there are some personal reservations about the vaccinations.
News Briefs
ELAC’s American Federation of Teachers faculty guild chapter president Michelle Benjamin, who represents faculty’s union rights spoke about how a number of faculty will be opting out from taking the vaccine. Benjamin said many faculty “have reached out to her in regard to opting out of taking the vaccine. Some of them can’t take it due to medical reasons. Another reason was religious reasons and then personal.” “The union has not negotiated that at this point, so as I gather further information, I just want to say that it’s an individual thing and we basically stand by faculty based on their preference for vaccination,” Benjamin said. Albert Roman said that, according to general counsel, a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination would have to be legislated in order to be required. “I don’t think we can legally require them, but it's going to be an interesting situation to roll out if it's optional. As some people may just rather opt out not to get them, the exposure associated with that is obviously huge,” Roman said Vi c e P r e s i d e n t o f Administration Affairs Myeisha Strong reported to the LACCD Emergency Operations Center (EOC)/ Incident Command Center (ICC) to clear up confusion about employees returning to work after testing
Spring 2021 Virtual Club Rush
positive. With existing policies in place, proof of being cleared from COVID-19 is not required. “The district, the college, we cannot require that type of paperwork. It is going to be based off the word of that employee, coming back to campus, and I guess they would also speak to evidence that they are not experiencing or no longer experience symptoms,” Strong said. Roman stressed how the in-person education shutdown has been greatly felt “by many of our undeserved poor communities. Students have gotten so behind on their education. “It's going to be incredibly difficult for them to be able to recover what has been almost a year of education. That has to be balanced again with our ability to come back in a safe manner, where everyone feels that they’re going to be protected.” Roman said. Student Natalie Sanchez is concerned when in-person instruction returns. Sanchez said she is concerned whether she will be informed if someone tests positive and if the school is required to inform students if they become potentially exposed. “I would like to know whether I have been exposed to COVID19,” Sanchez said. Academic senate president
ELAC student association will hold a virtual club rush tomorrow from 5 to 7 p.m. on Zoom. To attend, go to https://laccd.zoom.us/s/97773143184
Jeffrey Hernandez said the district drew from a re-engagement grid based on county and state guidelines to determine whether or not masks would be required. The grid varies based on the level of spread, certain types of instruction and requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Hernandez said that he brought up the concern at the District Senate in the case if a student would not want to use PPE. Hernandez said he believes the district will end up developing some kind of statement which will allow professors to tell students to leave if they don’t have their PPE, refuse to wear it or are not socially distancing. “Whatever comes down in terms of the state, county guidelines, those are the ones that we follow, the EOC and the district. So you know some cities have put ordinances in place regarding masks requirements,” Roman said. A forum will take place on March 12, where ELAC’s students and staff can bring questions to district leaders. Roman said he encourages to be present at the forum to get answers from district officials. The link to register for the forum is http://bit.ly/forum031221 The next ESGC meeting is scheduled for March 29 on Zoom.
Last Chance U: Basketball Premiere
ELAC basketball team are the stars of Netflix’s new series “Last Chance U: Basketball.” Season one will premiere on March 10 at midnight.
CN/STEVEN ADAMO
ELAC Theater Arts: Coversation with ELAC Alum Center Theatre Group and ELAC Theater Arts will
be hosting a seminar with ELAC alum Annie Gonzalez tomorrow from 7 to 8 p.m. on Zoom. For Zoom information go to: www.elactheater.org
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Opinion
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, March 03, 2021
Inmates deserve the Covid-19 vaccine they don’t protect those who are considered a high-risk population? Staff Writer It becomes a cycle, because once inmates begin to feel better, they Inmates deserve COVID vaccines may have already infected their just as much as other individuals. cellmate, who may have been in In fact, giving them access can close contact with an unsuspecting help slow the spread of the virus staff member, and the virus carries altogether and that’s the goal, right? on to additional hosts. The CDCR is following the During the current pandemic, the world rushed to create a vaccine to California Department of Public fight the COVID-19 disease. While Health’s guidelines, and as of Feb. the world awaited the results from 25, over 25,000 staff and almost the testing of many vaccine trials, 40,000 inmates have been given thoughts on how these vaccines their first dose of the vaccine. This should be distributed began form- means that almost 44 percent of California inmates are at least someing. Would the elderly or those with what protected. While there may be questions on immunodeficiency health issues be the first to be vaccinated, or should whether or not inmates deserve to frontline workers be the first to be be protected due to their past behavprotected? Many questions were ior, who gets to decide whether or floating around, but inmates may not human beings get some sort of not have crossed many peoples’ second chance during a global pandemic? If the state, minds. Inmates may or even the entire not be thought of as world, allows those worthy of receiving Of all the cases incarcerated to be a possibly life-saving vaccine, but aren’t in the state, 211 f o rg o t t e n , w i l l that not allow the they still human inmates and 26 virus to continue beings? within According to the staff members spreading the walls and onto California Departhave died due to CDCR staff, ultiment of Corrections mately lingering and Rehabilitation’s complications elsewhere? website (CDCR), related to COVIDAn additional as of Feb. 25, the concern is the fact current prison pop19 that many inmates ulation is 91, 322. have been released, Of those inmates, and continue to be there are currently released, as a way 379 active cases of COVID-19 within the state. Of all to fight the virus. Due to the virus being contracted the cases in the state, 211 inmates and 26 staff members have died when people are in close confined due to complications related to spaces, many inmates have been released to avoid the virus from COVID-19. Inmates are locked up in small spreading further inside the prisons. This means that these same confined areas. Therefore they cannot simply go outside and con- inmates are being released out to tract the virus. The only possibility the public, and it’s unknown if they of contracting the disease is through carry the virus unknowingly, further staff who are able to leave the pris- exposing others. From March through December ons/jails as they please. How else is of 2020, a total of 2,635 inmates the virus getting in? CDCR currently has 443 active were released in California alone, covid cases, with 167 new cases according to the Federal Bureau being detected within the last two of Prisons. How exactly sure can weeks. This does not place the CDCR staff be that none of these blame on CDCR staff, as they are released individuals had any exposimply doing their job, but how do sure to coronavirus? As of March 2, California has they expect to slow the spread if
BY BRENDA DE LA CRUZ
EDITOR IN CHIEF Erica Cortes MANAGING EDITOR Juan Calvillo ONLINE EDITORS Tatianna Velazquez Cynthia Solis FRONT EDITOR Cassidy Reyna OPINION EDITORS Brenda De La Cruz Zasha Hayes NEWS EDITORS Annette Quijada Jonathan Bermudez Annette M. Leaure ARTS EDITORS Gabriela Gutierrez Grace Rodriguez Paul Medina Alma Lizarraga SOCIAL MEDIA Daniella Molina Breanna Fierro COPY EDITORS Luis Castilla Ivan Cazares Diego Linares
3,481,611 confirmed cases of COVID-19, as well as 52,497 coronavirus- related deaths. According to covid19.ca.gov, the number of covid-related deaths increased by 0.6 percent from the day before. Taking into consideration the number of inmates being released daily, it’s a risk not having them vaccinated prior to re-entering society. Some inmates who are released
may have underlying health conditions, making them prone to contracting COVID-19 once back in society. These inmates may have made mistakes that landed them in jail, but they did their time and should be given a chance to redeem themselves, even during a pandemic. It only makes sense that in order to eradicate a global crisis, we pro-
BY IVANA AMARAL
tect all and not just those we feel are worthy. By helping those whom society has forgotten, we can help protect the rest of the public. The sooner society vaccinates as many human lives, the sooner we can possibly return to living our normal lives once again.
ELAC opts for online enrollment
STAFF WRITERS Raymond Nava Leonardo Cervantes CARTOONISTS Daniella Molina Ivana Amaral GRAPHICS Andrea Cerna ART DIRECTOR Steven Adamo ADVERTISING Stefanie Arocha ADVISER Jean Stapleton
BY ZASHA HAYES Staff Writer Students who chose to enroll in East Los Angeles College’s spring semester have experienced a change in the enrollment process. In past semesters, students were encouraged to meet with counselors when it came time to enroll in new courses. By doing this, students were informed of what classes they needed and if they were on track in their educational plan. For this semester, students are allowed and must self-enroll in courses they need to graduate. Students can request and schedule meetings with their counselors through Cranium Cafe if questions arise about how to enroll or where they might be on their path to graduation. The new enrollment process is an easy and quick procedure that can be done in less than an hour, if the student knows what they’re doing. The steps for self-enrollment are as follows: The student should log into the ELAC website. Once done, their student homepage should appear. On this homepage, the student will see multiple boxes that will assist them on their path to graduation. The box to click for self-enrollment is the ‘Manage Classes’ box. This page will show a list of choices. The student should click the ‘Search Class and Enroll’ box. From there, the student can look up the classes they need and add them to their shopping cart or enroll in the course. There are also options to drop classes, swap classes, view enrollment dates and more that will help a student during this enrollment change. The only downsides to this new enrollment process are when students need to schedule an appointment with their counselors. At times, when logging into Cranium Cafe, certain counselors are offline. This results in the student not being able to make an appointment. Other times, when looking for a date to schedule an appointment, there would be no available dates. This is a minor change and inconwww.ELACCampusNews.com
Campus News encourages letters to the editor relating to campus issues. Letters must be typed and double spaced. Submitted material becomes the property of Campus News and cannot be returned. Letters should be limited to 300 words or less. Campus News reserves the right to edit letters for grammatical errors or libelous content. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Writers must sign submissions and print their names and a phone number where they can be reached. Letters should be addressed to the editor of Campus News. Submissions can be made at the mailroom in building E1 or the Journalism department office in the Technology Center in E7-303.
BY ZASHA HAYES
Any student who is enrolled at venience compared to scheduling ELAC is advised to be wary of drop appointments on campus. deadlines for their Students who courses. The first drop have successdeadline has passed fully enrolled during the first two this semester are The new weeks of the semester, currently taking enrollment and there is a second classes, however, deadline for those who some students who process is an wish to drop with a enrolled might be easy and quick W. Professors are not on waitlists for responsible for dropthose courses. procedure that ping students, so the Those who are, are can be done in student must drop the advised to consistently check their less than an hour, course if they feel they can’t complete the laccd.edu email for if the student course materials and any updates. There requirements. are late enrollknows what The new enrollment ment classes curthey’re doing. process also comes rently available for with a number of ELAC. services the students Students who can access. Due to choose to enroll the change from onlater have until April 12 and April 13 to enroll campus to online courses at ELAC, students are given access to online without a permission number.
workshops that are conducted via Zoom. These consist of assistance from the Transfer Center, Financial Aid workshops, and a number of affinity group workshops. Despite the common thought that online classes are harder to complete, ELAC has given multiple services to be successful during the pandemic. Because of this, the transition from on-campus courses has been a fairly straightforward adjustment. The courses available at ELAC are all online and separated into two categories, synchronous and asynchronous. Professors who chose to teach synchronous courses use Zoom in place of on-campus learning. For these courses, there is a scheduled meeting time for the professor(s) and students. During this time, professors will continue with their course curriculum.
Canvas is also used to complete the courses in synchronous and asynchronous classes. This platform is also something that can be used efficiently. Unlike synchronous courses, asynchronous courses only use Canvas as a means of communication and learning. Typically, professors post videos, lectures and exams on the platform. Students are then responsible for checking the platform for updates. Professors usually have their students download the Canvas app for quick and easy access to their course and its updates. Students can contact their professors via Canvas or email as means of communication. The new enrollment process should be easy enough for students to learn. It’s just as easy as meeting in-person to enroll for future courses.
East Los Angeles College Campus News 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez E7-303 Monterey Park, CA 91754 (323) 265-8819, Ads (323) 265-8821 Fax (323) 415-4910 The East Los Angeles College Campus News is published as a learning experience, offered under the East Los Angeles College Journalism program. The editorial and advertising materials are free from prior restraint by virtue of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The opinions expressed are exclusively those of the writer. Accordingly, materials published herein, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the Los Angeles Community College District, East Los Angeles College, or any officer or employee thereof.
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EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2021
Myths about Covid-19 Vaccines get debunked BY ANNETTE QUIJADA Staff Writer Health Educator from the Department of Health Alicia Martinez-Vargas, dismantled the myth that one can get COVID from the vaccine itself. Moderna and Pfizer both developed mRNA vaccines. “What happens is when the mRNA gets into the cell, it creates the spike protein. Our body recognizes that they don’t know what it is, ‘it’s foreign to me.’ and that’s when our body starts responding and makes the antibodies to combat that germ in our body,” Vargas said. “These mRNA vaccines can not give us COVID-19, it doesn’t have any part of the virus at all. None of the vaccines being developed in the U.S right now contain the virus.” Some people may feel unwell after getting the vaccine, Vargas said that symptoms like a headache, fever, or body aches are normal and are signs of the body building immunity.
But, It is important to note several hundred volunteers. that you can still contact COVID-19 Phase 3 is 1000+ volunteers. even if you received the vaccine. And phase 4 is the authorization of Continuing safety guidelines the vaccine. is essential. “The only difference is that Another some of the common myth steps were done Vargas discussed at the same time “Every step that was is the rumor that instead of one the vaccine was required to make sure after the other. not developed Also, when they the vaccine is safe correctly started doing because of the There’s four phase.. and the trails, they speed in which also started none of those phases manufacturing it was released. It is common the vaccine, were skipped.” knowledge that mRNA is vaccines usually also faster to take years for produce because ALICIA MARTINEZ-VARGAS development. materials needed from the department Scientists Health Educator to produce of Helath were able to have are already a head start due available,” to the previous Vargas said studies of mRNA vaccines. The safety of the COVID-19 “Every step that was required vaccines are a top priority, as the to make sure the vaccine is safe and FDA and CDC continue to monitor effective was followed. There’s four their safety. phases...and none of those phases Vargas introduced a new were skipped,” Vargas said. text message app called V-SAFE Phase 1 consists of 20-100 that is being used by the CDC healthy volunteers. Phase 2 is for vaccinated individuals who
News
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volunteer to sign up. One would get daily messages asking to submit a questionnaire on how they’re feeling and what symptoms they’re experiencing for the next two weeks after being vaccinated. To register for the V-SAFE app, visit: https://vsafe. cdc.gov. On March 1, Los Angeles County will enter the next phase of vaccine availability which will include the education sector, this will include a lot of people/staff from the ELAC community. For more information about who is able to get the vaccine next visit: www. VacinateLACounty.com. “Be aware of the myths. This vaccine can’t be forced. We have the right to decide if we want to take it or not. But I tell people, don’t make a decision based on what you hear from others. Really take the time to educate yourself about it, so that you can make an informed decision for yourself,” Vargas said. Information about COVID19 is the vaccination are constantly changing, for up to date information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. CN/ DANIELLA MOLINA
ELAC Workshop helps students with FASFA university at least half-time in 2021-2022. “The California Chafee Grant program provides up to $5,000 annually to current and ELAC’S latest work-shop former foster youth for college on Financial Aid covered how to or vocational training at any apply for Financial Aid in 2021- accredited college in the U.S. 2022 and answers many questions based on available funding. To be eligible foster youth students often have. Josephine Tang presented the must be a current or former foster workshop covering the different youth who was a dependent or types of sources of financial aid ward off the court, living in foster and the required financial aid care for at least one day between the ages of 16 and 18 and not application forms. She also explained how to having reached their 26th birthday complete the free application for as of July 1 on the award year,” Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), CA Pang said. Current or former foster Dream Act application and the Cal youth are encouraged to apply Grant GPA verification form. during their senior year of high This March 2, the 2021school as early as October 1. 2022 FAFSA application was the The current FAFSA deadline to application cycle be submitted. started Oct. 1and A 2021-2022 ends June 30, Cal Grant “The California Chafee 2022. The Cal verified GPA needed to be Grant program provides Grant deadline was March 2. submitted by The tax up to $5000 annually to the school year that was be before the current and foster youth utilized are 2019 deadline a s w e l l . T o for college or vocational Federal Income Tax returns. submit a training...” The mandatory F A F S A documents to application file FAFSA are students Social Security need an FSA cards, 2019 W-2 ID and can and 1099 Forms download the and records of FASFA app JOSEPHINE TANG money earned to make the Finacial Aid Techinician and other taxable process fast. benefits. Gift aid 2 0 1 9 is a grant or federal income scholarship tax forms a\were that does not need to be earned or repaid. Loans are borrowed also required as well as records of money to be paid back, usually untaxed income. Current bank statements, with interest. The sources of Financial Aid Business, farm and other real estate come from the federal government, records and records of stocks, state government, colleges and bonds, and other investments were universities, private agencies, required. Undocumented students are companies, foundations and not eligible for federal aid, but employers. they can inquire in elementary and Cal Grant A is for high high-school to see if it possible school seniors, recent high school for them to become a permanent graduates and transfer students. Their GPA must be at least resident. These students can consider 3.0 for high-school students and applying for a federal Deferred 2.4 for transfer students. The student’s family income Action for Childhood Arrival and assets must be below state (DACA) which allows for work authorization. ceilings. Students can also check Cal Grant B is for highschool seniors and recent high- with colleges and universities to school graduates. Their GPA must see if institutional financial aid is be at least 2.0 for high schools available. In order to keep financial students and 2.4 for transfer aid, students must maintain at students. Family income and assets least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, must be below state ceilings and and maintain at least half-time must come from disadvantaged or enrollment for federal student loans. low income families. Students must also pass For a student to be eligible enough classes to graduate within for a Cal Grant, the students must 150 percent of the normal timealso be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizen, be a California frame for the degree.
BY LEONARDO CERVANTES Staff Writer
residents, and attend an eligible, accredited California college or
COURTESY OF CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT
Academic Senate discuss risk of returning to campus BY ERICA CORTES Staff Writer Ideas on ensuring a focused learning environment on campus during risk of COVID-19 Infections was the main topic of the Academic Senate meeting. The Academic Senate meeting was held on Feb. 23 via zoom. While there was no notion to this discussion, members were opinionated on the subject. California has a fourcolor tier system. Based on being affected by COVID-19, each county has a color representing them. The California Color-Coded County tier system depends on the average of COVID-19 cases in over a week. Purple being the worst in widespread, meaning more than 7 people per week to yellow as the best with just less than 1 per week. Currently Los Angeles County is still purple. jeffrey Hernandez, President of the Academic Senate said that it may be possible to go
from purple to red, meaning they that home “ Hernadez said. New protocols into can change the protocol to have some in-person access to courses transitioning in-person would mean making classes hybrid, in the upcoming semesters. reducing in 50% R e d capacity and 50% is the below maximum hours. Purple as “As a Chair, I don’t Another Substantial feel ready to have question arises between on whether or four to seven this conversation. not the Working cases a week. I don’t know what Environment T h e parameters we will be Cw oi lml m imt at ke ee concern for recommending, under recommendations the Academic for all employees. Senate was what circumtances T h e y whether discussed ideas my faculty will be transitioning as keeping to a partial comfortable coming such hand sanitizer in-person in the classroom, c o u r s e back .” i n d i v i d u a l would affect checkpoints where students they take students’ SHERRIE DAVEY focus from Chair Council of the Academic temperatures and learning. Senate health surveys of whether students “Students are have symptoms. converting in This would give the faculty person in context in which it might be hard to focus on what they the liberty to have their own need to learn if they are worried agendas when it comes to dealing about either becoming infected or with their students when the time becoming a carrier and bringing comes for in-person courses.
The question was asked if the faculty would have the hands on every individual class or giving all trust to the professors to do it. Nohelia Canales, a member of the Academic Senate, said, “It is absolutely essential for the senate to take position to support our chairs as they are navigating uncharted waters” It has been almost a year since East Los Angeles College went completely online due to the pandemic. Going forward into transitioning to in-person also brought up concerns in the meeting Sherrie Davey, Chairs Council of the Academic Senate, “As a chair, I don’t feel ready to have this conversation. I don’t know what parameters we will be recommending, under what circumstances my faculty will be comfortable coming back. I don’t know how the department or the college is best served by saying ‘let’s have class caps or a limit on the number of hours that can be scheduled in person just for the sake of ensuring we are in-person.”
www.ELACCampusNews.com
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Arts
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3 2021
Billie Eilish documentary gets real with fans Eilish is even harder on herself because of the hate that she faces. Viewers can see how it is hard for her to do something freely, because as an artist she wants to be proud of it. Fans are shown how she tends
BY CASSIDY REYNA Staff Writer Apple TV+’s new documentary, “Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry” gives a raw look at the life of Billie Eilish and the road leading to her last album, “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” Viewers are automatically brought into Eilish’s life three years after her song, “Ocean Eyes,'' put her on the map. Eilish is candid about how she feels and how she views her fans. She explains that she can see her fans and know that they’re all going through something, they’re not just fans to her, but family. Eilish grew up in a household based around music, since she was home schooled, it’s all she’s known, along with her brother, Finneas, who is also an artist. The audience is shown Billie and Finneas’ creative style when it comes to writing the album and her plans for future music videos. Director R.J. Cutler is not trying to paint a pretty picture of Eilish. It shows who she truly is, a sarcastic
MUSIC IN STEREO—Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas discuss their work on the song they just completed, right before doing their secret handshake. teenager that is just trying to navigate her life as a huge star. It shows the stress she faces going into making “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” Despite the fame she has, she still lives her life as a normal teenager, from getting
her driver’s permit to dealing with a toxic relationship and graduating high school. The documentary is so powerful, that it can make the audience become very emotional. That is what makes the
documentary great, because Eilish is so raw with her feelings. Fans can see how hard she is on herself as an artist because she wants to do the absolute best and not let her fans down. Due to being on social media,
Director R.J. Cutler is not trying to paint a pretty picture of Eilish. It shoes who she truly is, a sarcastic teenager that is just trying to navigate her life as a huge star. to feel about herself and how her mental health takes a very strong toll on her. She explains the fact that she knows her music is sad, but it’s
exactly how she feels. She is not going to write songs that don’t say what she’s feeling because it’s not authentic to who she is. Her music helps her from doing anything rash and keeps her sane. Many fans may relate to this sentiment especially since, life in this day and age is very depressing. It’s great to have artists truly display their emotions in their music and be their true selves to their audience. The documentary is very similar to other artists' documentaries, like Lady Gaga’s “Gaga: Five Foot Two” and “One Direction: This Is Us.” It shows who Eilish truly is, as it’s emotional, raw and powerful. Since Eilish has been in the spotlight at a young age, being in the scene can really take a toll on a person's mental health. Overall, Cutler’s documentary does a great job of showing who Eilish truly is along with shining a light on mental health. Eilish is a role model for many and this just shows that she earns that role in being so true to herself, her fans and loved ones.
Cross-Smith’s novel vocalizes mental health BY CYNTHIA SOLIS Staff Writer
PIECE OF A PUZZLE—The much anticipated album cover is here. Previous album cover left theorists speculating a sequel to “K.G.” “L.W.” marks the third installment in King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard’s “Explorations Into Microtonal Tuning.”
Music album ‘L.W.’ raises money for Australia BY LUIS CASTILLA Staff Writer Never one to leave anything unfinished, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard have released “L.W.” as a follow-up to last year’s “K.G.” “L.W.” is the third installment in King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard’s “Explorations Into Microtonal Tuning.” The trilogy has seen the band modify their instruments to play music notes hidden between standard-tuned notes. Like “K.G.,” ”L.W.”dissects the political and environmental issues the band’s native Australia, and the world for that matter, is facing. Fans speculated the arrival of “L.W.” after the release of “K.G.,” noting that there was a sliver of yellow on the album cover’s right border. The band denied its existence, until a tracklist and pre-order page was leaked, revealing that the cover of “L.W.” lines up perfectly with the cover of “K.G.” and subsequently, proving theorists correct. Both covers were designed and sculpted by the band’s long-time artist and collaborator, Jason Galea. Not only are the album covers meant to connect seamlessly, the closing track from “K.G,” “The Hungry Wolf of Fate,” flows right into the opening track of “L.W.” This is not a new concept for King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard as their 2016 album, “Nonagon Infinity” saw the band create a www.ELACCampusNews.com
never-ending album where each song is connected and the last track sends listeners right back to the beginning for another go-around. “If Not Now, Then When?” opens the album with an atmospheric
“Human race deserves its steaming fate on a plate. We did exploit the fish of the sea and the birds of the heavens and the bugs in the ground and every creeping thing that creeps the Earth.” STU MACKENZIE Artist
instrumental reminiscent of something a band would play at a show before they actually start playing their setlist. This transitions into groovy keyboards while singer Stu Mackenzie warns of the dangers of complacency toward environmental protection and governmental monitoring.
It is a no-brainer why Elle magazine deemed, “This Close to Okay” by Leesa Cross-Smith, “One of the most anticipated books of 2021.” “This Close to Okay” is a novel that explores fragility, grief and the effects of mental illness on two broken people who find love again. Tallie Clark is a divorced, childless therapist who encounters a man about to jump off a bridge. She pulls over and begins to talk to him to try and talk him down. She is eventually successful and invites him for a cup of coffee at her favorite coffee shop. They both quickly agree that they will not have any small talk, and although the man barely reveals his name, Emmett, he doesn’t say much else. This doesn’t stop Tallie from inviting him to her home in an attempt to provide a safe space for him. Emmett ends up spending the night. Throughout the emotionallycharged weekend, they reveal their deepest feelings- each other’s divorces, deaths, infidelities, and heartaches that have shaped the people they are today.
Interestingly, although they share such heavy stories, they neglect to share the fact that Tallie is a therapist for a living. Emmett emails Tallie’s ex-husband in an attempt to get her the answers he thinks she needs. Although Tallie is enthusiastic about trying to help Emmett heal from his past traumas, she doesn’t realize he’s not the only one who needs healing. This can be seen with how insecure she felt about her ex-husband leaving her and having a baby with his mistress. Tallie still logs into her ex-husband’s social media accounts to cyber-stalk his new wife and essentially look at the life he wanted, but she could not give him. The novel alternates between Tallie and Emmett’s perspectives as they inch closer to why Emmett went to the bridge that rainy October evening and other identity-revealing stories. Tallie refers to danger as a “frothing aphrodisiac,” which allows the readers to understand why she placed so much trust in a stranger, knowing it could have ended poorly. However, it goes to show how positive Tallie tries to be. Overall, the two characters fail or learn to cope with sorrow and depression.
Cross-Smith places mental health at the heart of this story, bringing attention to the importance of asking for help when navigating the complicated twists and turns of life. “This Close to Okay “is a very fast-moving, drama-filled roller coaster that keeps you guessing the whole time as they sort through their fears and disappointments. It is very dark and tense, yet flirty and humorous making it a great book, full of surprises. All that being said, there are some flaws with the character Tallie. Tallie can be seen as nosy with how she stole Emmett’s notes and consistently tried to analyze Emmett as a patient rather than a potential friend. She broke many professional boundaries by giving him a very subtle form of therapy. Although he gets her back, by emailing her ex-husband posing to be her, Tallie should have known better as a practicing therapist. Either way, both characters are developed nicely throughout the novel. Cross-Smith portrays mental illness and not being okay beautifully, while encouraging its readers to understand that it is okay not to be okay as long as you find someone to talk to.
“O.N.E.” begins with a lullabylike melody, perfectly in line with the song’s theme of having to wake up and live with the guilt that comes with the devastation of the planet at the hands of humans. “Human race deserves its steaming fate on a plate. We did exploit the fish of the sea and the birds of the heavens and the bugs in the ground and every creeping thing that creeps on Earth,” Mackenzie sings in the song’s verse. “L.W.” has the same problem “K.G.” had, its songs are so similar, they melt into each other, making for a muddy, boring listen until something new breaks through the noise. Half the tracklist is underwhelming. “Static Electricity,” “East West Link,” “Ataraxia” and “See Me” all feel like the same song with only slight dynamic shifts. Listeners may find themselves wondering when a song ever ended and a new one began. There’s nothing remarkable until the closing track, “K.G.L.W.,” not to be confused with the opening track off “K.G.” of the same name. Closing just as “K.G.” did, this is a slow-burning sludge-metal track that makes sure listeners leave “L.W.” with their faces thoroughly melted off. For a band that gained notoriety for its originality and sonic exploration, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard have fallen into a microtonal rabbit hole.
A SAFE SPACE—Leesa Cross-Smith’s emotionally charged novel attempts to normalize asking for help while destigmatizing the issues that surround mental health.
Arts
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2021
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Documentary showcases Brazilian soccer legend’s career BY JUAN CALVILLO Staff Writer “Pelé’’ chronicles a portion of football player Edson “Pelé” Arantes do Nascimento’s life while showing his lack of involvement in Brazilian politics during his World Cup playing years. The Netflix produced film depicts Pelé as a hero of the people of Brazil and sports enthusiasts around the globe. It also doesn’t shy away from critiquing the sports icon for not taking a true stand in his country’s political issues. The documentary is directed by Ben Nicholas and David Tryhorn. The pair worked together on another sports documentary in 2016 called “Crossing the Line.” Their keen eye for telling a good story is proved in “Pelé.” The movie uses old footage from multiple World Cups, news reports from Brazil and interviews done with Pelé to round out the football player ’s years. A current interview for the Netflix movie
is interwoven to show an aged Pelé talking about what it was like during his career’s early years. The archival footage shows Pelé during his time with the Santos Football Club, during his time at four different World Cup matches and behind the scenes footage of the entire Brazilian national team during breaks in the World Cup. Watching a sports phenom like Pelé in both his element and simply lounging around is impactful. Everything seems like second nature to Pelé, and his character is almost as impressive as his skill on the pitch. Showing both the young and older versions of Pelé makes the pivotal moments in the movie that much more solid. The movie covers times in his life where he was both at his best and at his most indecisive. If anything, this contrast shows that despite being an amazing football player, Pelé was still very much a man. “Pelé”
World Cup win made him the only player to ever win the World Cup a record three times. “Pelé” uses the four World Cup events to show the progression of not just Pelé’s stardom and skill as part of both the national football team and the Santos Football Club, but also the political changes in his home country of Brazil. During the 1958 and 1962 World Cups, Brazil was not under the rule of a dictatorship. In 1964, that changed when a coup, using the stopping of communism as justification, changed Brazil into a dictatorship. A newsreel shows COURTESY OF NETFLIX a young Pelé saying that he had been asked to speak on politics, GOALLL!—A young Pelé shows affection at the World Cup Trophy.but that he wasn’t interested in delves into his personal demons and 1970 World Cup matches. it because he didn’t understand and the insecurities of being Pelé shows the struggles of not politics. In the documentary, journalist not only a football player, but a meeting expectations during Paulo César Vasconcellos said symbol of hope for his country. the 1966 cup, so much so that that after the coup, things really During the sections focusing it momentarily changes his didn’t change for people like on Pelé as a football player, the views on playing the sport. But Pelé. His status and symbolism documentary shows just how it’s the elation during the 1970 allowed for his life to go on like fragile a player’s self esteem and cup that shows how hard work normal. Pelé confirmed what the inner strength can be. The movie and determination can help a journalist said, by saying that covers the 1958, 1962, 1966 person’s self esteem. His 1970 football didn’t really change for
him after the coup. “Pelé” does not really hold the footballer’s feet to fire on his position, but there is a bit of a resolution on why he chose not to be as active in politics. Documentaries are not commonly known for inventive cinematography, but directors Nicholas and Tryhorn used inventive ways to show the lifestyle Pelé lived versus the unrest Brazil was experiencing. When Pelé said things really didn’t change for him, the directors used jump cuts between scenes of him playing football with scenes of the uprisings and riots going on in Brazil. The technique shows how outlandish it may be for someone to not acknowledge the change in government of their country. “Pelé” is an informative and inspiring documentary. It shows how grit and determination can help a person overcome how they start in life. It shows how individuals can be used as a symbol of hope, but asks if symbols should do more than just exist.
‘Firefly Lane’ features aging friendship BY GABRIELA GUTIERREZ Staff Writer Polar opposites, Tully and Kate, develop what seems to be an unbreakable bond in Netflix’s new show “Firefly Lane.” The show’s first and only season takes the audience on a three-decade journey through the lives of Tallulah “Tully” Hart and Kate Mularkey. Tully, who is played by actor Katherine Heigl, and Kate, played by “Scrubs” actor, Sarah Chalke, are bound by secrets almost immediately into the show– creating the foundation for the friendship that they develop.Both actors play protagonists as the show is primarily about their personal connection as friends. While all other characters play important roles, it is easy to see they all live in Kate and Tully’s world. The show takes place in the present, but quickly intertwines with Kate and Tully’s teenage and childhood years. Kate and Tully’s pasts take place between the ‘70s and
now and are distinguished by a warm filter. Alissa Skovbye plays Tully’s teen self, and her youngest self is played by London Robertson. The audience rapidly learns that Tully is the rebellious and risktaking crazy friend. Kate, whose younger counterpart is played by “The Magicians” actor, Roan Curtis, is known as the sensible, kind-toa-fault, responsible one. A peak into their younger years give the audience an understanding of both character’s modernday roles. However,Kristin Hannah makes sure to give both characters more spunk than meets the eye. Both protagonists find themselves working in the field of journalism. Tully makes a name of herself by becoming the host of her own TV talk show, “Girlfriend Hour,” and Kate puts her passion for broadcast and writing on hold to pursue motherhood and marriage. Tully and Kate depict a real, heart-felt friendship on-screen. They are so evidently different and fight often because of it,
but they are always there for each other. Much like many lifelong friendships, it is through their struggles, losses, milestones and other life-changing experiences that they can be vulnerable with one another, which ultimately brings them closer. Because the drama show goes back-and-forth between decades, it is easy for a wide-ranging audience to relate to the characters at any given time. This is the type of show young girls can watch with their moms, or that girlfriends can watch together, and have tons to talk about. The show is based on New York Times Best Seller, “Firefly Lane,” written by Hannah in 2008. “Fly Away,” also written by Hannah, is the book that follows “Firefly Lane,” for fans who would like a closer look into the characters’ lives. The show was filmed September 2019 through January 2020 and was released on Netflix early last month. The filming took place in various lcations in Canada, but the show takes place in Washington.
COURTESY OF NETFLIX
RIDE THE BUS OF LIFE—Alissa Skovbye (left) and Roan Curtis (right) potray the teenage friendship of the main characters Tully and Kate. Throughout the course of its making, the show went through five different directors. Each director worked on two episodes for a total of 10 50-minute episodes, making the show an easy-to-binge-on-
a-night-in type of show. The first director to have a go at the show was Fred Gerber who is known for his work in “Prison Break.” Despite the handful of directors, the show remains consistent in its story and with
its character development. There is talk of a sequel, but no release date has been confirmed.
Comedian gets personal on Netflix special BY GRACE RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer
COURTESY OF NETFLIX
COOL UNCLE—Comedian Brian Regan takes the stage in his new Netflix comedy special discussing mental health.
Brian Regan’s comedy special, “On the Rocks” seems to be an allusion to what someone would order at a bar – nothing new or exciting. Unfortunately, this would also perfectly describe this comedy special. The special is everything the title suggests, a stand up comedy show featuring a laid back older gentleman named Brian Regan. The opening is scenery of what appears to be the Grand Canyon, with a punk rock track playing in the background. It sets the mood and foreshadows Brian Regan’s appearance, but can be misleading as his style of comedy is starkly mundane. Automatically acknowledging his appearance and age in a comedic fashion, he addresses what’s on everybody’s mind. He is the antithesis of what you would expect a stand up comic to be, that is, young and eccentric. But, his first jokes do loosen up his audience well. After the beginning though, there is not much substance. With a style that is all too familiar, he tends to mimic Jim Carey’s absurd faces and is easily comparable to Jim Gaffigan. But, unlike Jim Gaffigan, not all his jokes land well. He is better suited for a more mature audience, not because his comedy is vulgar,
but, because the content does not seem relatable to anyone under the age of 25. His fashion choice comes off as a cool uncle who is clearly going through some things, as does his comedy. White hair, black leather jacket and brown dress-up shoes show a fashionable side, but are also a stark contrast to his age. Although, he does make it look purposeful and also seems to definitely be self aware. Thus, Regan is likable and is clearly comfortable performing, all things expected from a stand up comic. He touches on his OCD and social anxiety, and does a good job at making these jokes relatable and funny. However, it also brings to light the fact that he is at his funniest when he talks about real stories. That is not to say other comedians only use real stories, but Regan’s punchlines are not as hard hitting in his made up scenarios. Regan resorts to a weird “Dumb and Dumber” sort of talking a lot, and it comes off as a bit over the top. He talks about the many things he dislikes and is able to make them somewhat relatable. His cynical personality comes out in his comedy and it actually works for him. If he took the time to channel his energy into mastering and balancing this schtick, it could have helped him land a few more jokes. All things considered, his love
for words is apparent. The jokes are often well written and his play on words show he is more than comfortable criticizing and celebrating language. But again, he lacks a wide range of emotions and impersonations – this automatically is a negative trait for any comic. There are not any new or controversial ideas in the show and it was rated G for General Audiences. The rating is not surprising, except for the fact that this is not what comedy enthusiasts expect of a comedy show, as the norm for comedy is to challenge ideas, even go as far as making people uncomfortable for the sake of having substance. But, this would probably explain why it was taken on by Netflix. The special was directed by Troy Miller. And at 58 minutes long, viewers might expect a condensed superb hour full of fun, but they get the exact opposite. This show should not have been longer than 15 minutes. Overall, Brian Regan is definitely funny, but his style of comedy seems to better suit him as a comedy writer as opposed to a stand up comic. The title is fitting for what the show is. However, for the younger generation, Brian Regan would most likely not be at the top of their lists.
www.ELACCampusNews.com
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News
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, March 3, 2021
March 2021 Upcoming Events March events focus on Women’s History Month and campus activities. Plus, the premiere of Netflix’s “Last Chance U: Basketball” docu-series featuring, ELAC’s Basketball team.
EVENT
DATE/TIME
Intersectionality and Feminism
Wednesday, March 2
Spring 2021 Virtual Club Rush
Thursday, March 4
LINK 10:30 am-Noon 5:00-7:00 pm
http://bit.ly/wgs030221 https://laccd.zoom.us/s/97773143183
CN: ERICA CORTES/ANNETTE LESURE
Student Life Workshop
Thursday, March 4
12:15-1:15 pm
student@elac.edu
ELAC Theatre Arts: A Conversation with Annie Gonzalez
Thursday, March 4
7:00-8:00 pm
www.elactheatre.org
Campus Forum on COVID-19
Friday, March 5
Medical Racism: A Film Screening & Panel Discussion
Wednesday, March 10
3:30-5:00 pm
NETFLIX: LAST CHANCE U BASKETBALL
Wednesday, March 10
Midnight
When they Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Dialogue
Friday, March 19
A Migrant’s Story by Reyna Grande: A Panel Discussion
Thursday , March 19
Sylvia Mendez: Fighting for Racial Equity www.ELACCampusNews.com
Tuesday, March 30
9:00-10:00 am
Noon -1:00 pm
http://bit.ly/forum031221 http://bit.ly/wgs031021 netflix.com
http://bit.ly/townhall031921
Noon-1:30 pm
http://bit.ly/wgs032521
Noon -1 pm
http://bit.;y/ElacTHSylivaMendez