Cross country and football teams bring home big wins See page 5
Volume 70, Issue 1
Single copy free - additional copies 50 cents
www.elaccampusnews.com
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
District taps into
ELAC reserve funds By MEGAN PERRY Staff Writer The budget situation at East Los Angeles College for the 2012-13 school year is getting worse and a new allocation model is not helping matters. This year’s budget is less than last year’s, requiring more dependence on the school’s reserved balance and more cuts to classes and supplies. The Los Angeles Community College District adopted a new allocation model, which affects ELAC in a negative way. The new allocation model takes five percent from the school’s income, money from the school’s undistributed balances and money from the school’s college reserve and balances. For ELAC, the total amount of money taken to be put in district reserve accounts was $25.2 million. Jeffrey Hernandez, academic senate vice president, said the district set up a general reserve fund. ELAC had money in a college reserve account the district set up, where ELAC could tuck away money for a rainy day. This money is no longer considered money that ELAC set aside, but is now considered money the district set aside for a general reserve account. The money in the general reserve account is to go untouched for the next year. On top of the district taking the college reserve money, the board of trustees increased the
News Briefs Reaching the dream Cal State University, Fullerton is to host a conference for AB-540 and undocumented students Sept 28 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call the LINKS Mentoring Program at (657)278-3488.
More parking now available
The new parking structure on Collegian Avenue and Floral Drive is now open and available to park in. The top level is daily parking, and the other levels are ASU permit parking. Parking permits are available in the Fiscal office for $27.
Renovated library open
The Helen Miller Bailey Library is now open. It is located in the F3 building and has more than 145 computers, private study rooms and a self-checkout machine. The library will be open Monday Thursday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
ELAC Campus News website down The Campus News website elaccampusnews.com is down, but should be back soon. For the latest news, follow @ELACCampusNews on Twitter or ‘Like’ the Campus News Facebook page.
contingency fund, which is part of thirds of the $5 million. The year the operating budget and may be after, one-third. The year after that, accessed throughout the year. none,” said Hernandez. Usually, all of the colleges The district has allocated $71 contribute five percent from revenue million to ELAC under the new and colleges may access the fund allocation model, which is about throughout the year. $10 million less than last year. Hernandez said, “The board of ELAC will also receive an offset trustees decided to increase the transitional fund of $5 million. contingency from five percent to Including remaining balances and 7.5 percent, and that extra money, revenue, ELAC’s budget is at about 85 percent of it, came out of about $86 million for the 2012-13 our (ELAC’s) balance.” school year. ELAC had money set aside and That’s roughly $3 million less would dip into it as needed. “The than ELAC spent last year, as only reason we have had the balance Hernandez said that ELAC’s over we have is because expenditure was we’ve run a very roughly $89 million. “East L.A. tight ship for a longer “Even if we College is in period of time than all didn’t have the new of the other colleges,” deep, deep trouble allocation model, said Hernandez. East L.A. College because of the The board found is in deep, deep that there was no other state budget cut... trouble because of money to cover the we’re going to be t h e s t a t e b u d g e t new increase, so they the biggest deficit c u t , ” H e r n a n d e z took the money from said, “and with the college in the district schools that allocation model, had the most money district,” for sure we’re going in reserve, ELAC and to be the biggest -Jeffrey Pierce College. deficit college in the Hernandez “The board of district.” trustees felt that if the Proposition 30 tax initiative does not may be the boost pass, they wanted to be in the ELAC needs. position to give away more money Prop 30 is the tax initiative that to other colleges,” Hernandez said. would increase personal income The district created a transition taxes on annual earnings more than fund to help the impact of the new $250,000 for the next seven years. allocation formula, which will “If the tax initiative does not shrink by one-third each year over the next few years. This year, ELAC see BUDGET, page 3 will receive roughly $5 million. “Next year, ELAC will see two-
CN/TADZIO GARCIA
ELAC’S NEW FACE — After 29 years at Long Beach City College, Farley Herzek takes a seat in the president’s office as East Los Angeles College’s new interim president.
ELAC’s interim president faces large budget deficit By BRIAN VILLALBA Staff Writer New interim president, Farley Herzek, was selected from a number of candidates to take on East Los Angeles College during a financial crisis. Herzek was among the candidates considered for the permanent ELAC president position. “Being the interim president gives the board of trustees the ability to see how I perform,” Herzek said. Herzek begins his term as interim president with 32 years of experience in education. He spent 29 years at Long Beach City College as the dean of academic affairs and three years as
vice president of academic affairs at College of the Desert. Here at ELAC, Herzek inherits a budget deficit, which is going to require institution-wide cuts. With the cuts, a freshman’s first college experience is to add a class with a crowd of other students. That is not the message Herzek would like ELAC to send. Enrollment is up from 27,305 last fall to 28,451 students. With the section cuts, there are more students competing for fewer sections. Herzek said, “We want to squeeze as many seats as we can out of a class.” The Los Angeles Community College District is projecting funding declines of more than 25
percent through 2017, assuming little to no economic growth over that same time period. Proposition 30, which would raise taxes on residents who make more than $250,000, and one quarter cent for sales and tax use with the purpose of preventing the steep cuts to education, is of great concern to Herzek. “If Proposition 30 doesn’t pass, the consequences to this community are going to be horrible,” Herzek said. Proposition 38, which is also on the ballot this November, is the alternative to Proposition 30. see HERZEK, page 3
VPAM remembers local muralist By JESUS FIGUEROA Staff Writer The exhibit reception for “Carlos Almaraz: A Life Recalled” at the Vincent Price Art Museum brought inspiration to the community last Saturday. The museum is named after the late Vincent Price, whose daughter, Victoria Price, attended her first exhibit opening at the Vincent Price Art Museum. “Inspiration” was the word Victoria Price used to describe the artwork being displayed at the exhibit. She said, “Welcome to a show that I think is going to transform a lot of students’ lives, and certainly all of us here tonight can see the power of this work.” Victoria Price said, “It’s exactly why my parents wanted to fund the museum. They really wanted to fund a place that was of service to the community, to show work that might not be shown in other places and may not have the opportunity as somewhere else.” There were many people in attendance from community members to faculty and staff at the large gallery of the museum. There were many colorful, creative and attention-grabbing paintings that showed the complexity of Almaraz’s way of looking at the world. Victoria Price said that her father believed that “Art can not only change your life, but it can save your life.” That is what Victoria
CN/LOURDES ESPINOZA
INNOVATIVE MINGLING— Crowds of people showed up for the opening reception of Carlos Almaraz: A Life Recalled on Saturday night and reflected on the messages this artist left behind. Price believes the community gains by having the exhibit in the museum. The master of ceremony, Dan “Eddie” Guerrero, got a big response from the audience by being witty and funny. Guerrero said “I wanted this to be here...in East L.A., because I wanted people to know we are not all just churros and low riders.” Along with being the master of ceremony, Guerrero was also the one who brought the idea for the
Carlos Almaraz exhibit to Karen Rapp, head of the Vincent Price Art Museum. As an ELAC alumnus, Guerrero wanted to bring a different look to Almaraz and said, “I wanted this to be very personal, not just who or what he was as an artist, but who he was as a person, and then it grew from there.” Elsa Flores Almaraz, who would rather be referred to as the beloved of the late Carlos Almaraz as opposed to his widow, said, “We for
the first time get to see an intimate portrait of who Carlos was.” She was very happy to provide many pieces of Almaraz’s artwork that many people had never seen. The exhibit spans much of Almaraz’s life. Elsa Almaraz said it starts from his childhood which was wonderful, moves into his political period, then his domestic period and finally into his studio period in his last few years, which he’s so known for. Almaraz was born on Oct. 5, 1941
in Zocolo, Mexico. He later moved to Chicago, Illinois with his parents at the age of one. After staying in Chicago for nine years, his parents moved him to California. He lived in Wilmington, then Beverly Hills and later, East Los Angeles. Almaraz graduated from Garfield High School and went to New York’s Loyola University, but quickly came back to East L.A. to continue on with his art. see INSPIRATION, page 6
24
OPINION
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2012
Vote ‘Yes’ on Proposition 30 EDITORIAL California voters are being asked to make difficult decisions this November on a series of propositions that will have a profound effect on the state’s future. None of these propositions will affect East Los Angeles College students more than Proposition 30, the Temporary Taxes to Fund Education; Guaranteed Local Public Safety Funding Initiative, Constitutional Amendment. Proposition 30 promises to provide temporary tax dollars to fund state education for the next seven years by creating additional sales and income taxes that will offset an estimated $5 billion cut in funding in this and future years. ELAC students don’t need to look far to see the signs of the devastating budget cuts that the school has already suffered during the last few years. A quick scan of the fall, 2012 schedule will reveal dozens of cancelled classes from the Arts department to Theater; from Accounting to Spanish; online classes and the satellite campuses;
all denoted by red strike-throughs. The South Gate shuttle bus has been eliminated, making it necessary for many low-income students who depended on it to provide their own transportation between campuses. Adding classes, especially math and English, has become
a challenging venture for many students, and some department tutoring labs have disappeared altogether. Virtually all departments are cutting back in faculty, teachersaids, classes, labs and supplies in an effort to deal with the current
budget cuts. If Proposition 30 fails, more budget cuts will follow threatening the survival of departments that may be deemed non-essential. Now is the time for eligible students to mobilize to ensure the passage of Prop. 30.
Students hold the future, and the present, of the school in their hands and can no longer remain apathetic to the voting process. Yes, Proposition 30 is not without fault. State Republicans are opposed to the proposition primarily because of the language of the initiative. They would argue that the proposition does not exclude the possibility of these funds being misdirected, and may not be used for education as intended. Now is not the time to quibble about the initiative’s language. The state of California’s education system is in crisis; these funds will be used as intended. This proposition must pass. California is asking its wealthier residents to help save the future of its students, but all residents will contribute. The passing of Proposition 30 will create a one-quarter percent sales tax for all Californians, and will increase income tax, one to three percent, for those residents who earn more than $250,000 annually. This proposition must not fail; students must take action; the future of the school and its students must be preserved.
No shuttle, no problem By EDWARD SINGLETON
EDITOR IN CHIEF Lindsey Maeda MANAGING EDITOR Erik Luna ONLINE EDITOR Tadzio Garcia FRONT EDITOR Megan Perry OPINION EDITOR Alejandra Carrillo NEWS EDITOR Brian Villalba FEATURE EDITOR Amanda Mayberry
ARTS EDITOR Jair Fuentes Danny Vasquez SPORTS EDITOR Liliana Marquez PHOTO EDITOR Hugo Dominguez, Jr. COPY EDITOR Augustine Ugalde Rodolfo Trujillo Veronica Hurtado
Staff Writer
Students will miss shuttle service By JAIR FUENTES
said, “Without the shuttle service, Staff Writer I can’t take classes at the main campus. I don’t have a driver’s Budget cuts in the education license or money for the public bus.” Scenarios such as this puts system have been affecting schools students in panic mode and with nationwide. In a string of recent no solution, the reality becomes no changes at East Los Angeles College, classes at the main campus. it’s been announced that the shuttle Some will argue that students service has been cancelled for the should be able to find a way around fall semester. this. Cancelling the shuttle buses Of course, there’s always makes a difference in a student’s carpooling and public transportation. educational plans and can hinder However, with gas prices rising to students from their potential success. more than $4 per gallon and Metro The shuttle buses, which East Los bus passes costing up to $75 a Angeles College has month, it’s becoming been providing for a financial burden for years, were a free and some students to just convenient service “I depend on the get to school. for students taking shuttles because Student Stephanie classes in both the M artinez said, “I they saved me South Gate campus depended on the shuttle and the main campus. and my family a because they saved me Ta k i n g c l a s s e s lot of money and and my family a lot only at South Gate of money, and now I is tough considering now i don’t know don’t know what to the fact that the what to do,” do.” campus is small Some ways to fix and not every class this problem would - Stephanie is offered there. It be for students to can be the difference Martinez protest this change, between completing present their concerns courses on time for and demand the bring graduation or staying return of the shuttle. another semester. Another solution would be to Some students are in a position raise money that can be used to pay where one class is required before for shuttle services. they can transfer to a four year It is a very important service university. that students really depend on and If a South Gate student can’t find should be available. a way to get to the main campus, The school can also bring back they miss their opportunity to take the shuttle and charge students a the class. small one time fee. Through any With a limited amount of classes solution, this problem can be fixed. being offered at South Gate, many In the meantime, however, students have no choice but to students must adjust to the change commute to the main campus in and hope for the best. Monterey Park. Student Christopher Menjivar
East Los Angeles College South Gate educational center was forced to shut down the free shuttle service it provided to students this Fall due to budget cuts. The shuttle, which ran for five years between Elac’s main campus in Monterey Park and the South Gate campus, serviced approximately 25,000 students per semester. The only alert about the cancellation was a message on ELACS home website saying, “Shuttle canceled due to budget cuts, plan accordingly.” The unfortunate shutdown has caused certain students to delay their academic careers. The shuttle service began with a rough start. On its opening day Al Rios dean at South Gate, was the only person onboard to ride it. However more recently, the shuttle had grown in popularity and became an academic tool for thousands of Elans. At some point during the past semester the shuttle would get overcrowded that students were forced to stand side-by-side, often only inches away from one another. It had become a mobile student center in some ways that many students came to love. When the shuttle was cancelled, thousand of Elans immediately felt the impact. “It’s too expensive [to drive between campuses]. My dad has to drop off my brother at the main campus in his car and I have to pick him up in my car so that neither of us spend too much on gas,” said, Christian Noriega, a computer science major.
CARTOONIST Kien Ha Bryan Pedroza STAFF WRITERS Carlos Alvarez, Sergio Berrueta, David Bilbao, Oliver Blanco, Dulce Carrillo, Jerry Casarez, Jane Fernandez, Jesus Figueroa, Cristina Galvan, William Hernandez, Shannen Jack, Edgar Lopez, Yesenia Martinez, Anthony Merjanoff, Tierra Oliver, Vivian Ramirez, Gregory Reyes, Alfonso Rivera, Edward Singleton
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Hugo Dominguez, Jr., Tadzio Garcia, Freddy Monares, Bryan Pedroza
His example of what students are doing just to get to school is only one of the approximate 25,000 students who were affected by the shuttle shutdown. However, its safe to say, “it could be worse.” The fact is, if students want academic success they must overcome obstacles, not only in academics, but in life. There are alternative forms of transportation between Monterey Park and South Gate that make it possible to find a way from one campus to another. Starting a carpool with fellow students is probably the most convenient way of getting around. If students don’t have a car to carpool perhaps waking up a little early to catch. The metro is best- the metro trip between campuses is approximately an hour and a half long. Cycling between schools is also an option with the added health
benefit of getting a great cardio workout. For Elans the road to success may not offer free shuttle service between campuses anymore, but lets not forget that success is only for those who want it. As budgets have been getting tighter, with school fees ever increasing it seems that students have been dealt the short end of the deal. In an ideal world students would have free shuttle service, smaller class sizes, affordable books and the latest in technology. Well, ideal world or not, one thing is certain, success depends on the effort of the students. Although the shuttle service has been cancelled this semester, true students are not left stranded. Those who want a better future will find ways to navigate themselves between schools.
Elans should change inequality at school By JERRY CASAREZ Staff Writer The beginning of the semester is always a crazy time for returning and new students on campus. Dealing with parking and lines everywhere is something that is expected for everyone during the first week of school. What has come as a surprise to everyone is the number of students being turned away from classes due to insufficient space. It seems that this semester more than ever before, students are being forced to wait for seating and an opportunity to add a class. This was the experience for me and others who were trying to add classes in order to meet graduation requirements. The crowding is the result of budget cuts by the state forcing many students to look for alternative classes to work into their schedules. In some cases there is no other choice than to try and take the class the next semester. With the threat of more budget
cuts to come that could weaken the current amount of classes offered, we have to ask for a better structure to assure students the opportunity to get the classes they need. Some instructors put a limit of 45 students per class making first come, first serve sound ideal but it really isn’t. The priority should go to students who are closest to graduating or transferring. While those in charge seem to point the finger at budget cuts they say are out of their control, they must start to implement changes to things they do. The current format is lacking structure and must be revised to help those students in need. There must be alternatives to the current system of vying for a seat based on a lottery. Why not implement a waiting system where those students can be evaluated and sorted based on their seniority and how close they are to graduating? Many students have turned to Friday and Saturday classes and online classes, which are at their
www.ELACCampusNews.com
highest demand. While many would expect the budget cuts to have an instant effect on the Math and English classes offered, the shortage of available seats has now spilled over to other departments including Science and Arts. More and more classes are looking like a refugee camp rather than a classroom during the first couple weeks of school. In some instances overcrowding became the issue where the number of available seats were empty instead of being filled by live bodies. If students are exhausting all possible options to try and add a class to their schedule, the administration should do the same when it comes to helping students in need. Wi t h o u t t h e i r h e l p a n d a restructuring of the current model, students will fall through the cracks and will be delayed from advancing their college education. This is an educational environment, so isn’t it time to learn from the past mistakes to assure they don’t happen to future students?
PODCAST TEAM Lourdes Espinoza Michael Price ADVERTIS0ING TEAM Stefanie Arocha Jonathan R. Diaz DISTRIBUTION TEAM Augustine Ugalde ADVISER Jean Stapleton Campus News encourages letters to the editor relating to campus issues. Letters must be typed and double spaced. Submitted material becomes the proper ty of Campus News and cannot be returned. Letters should be limited to 250 words or less. Campus News reser ves 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. 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) 265-8875 The East Los Angeles College Campus News is published as a learning experience, of fered under the East Los Angeles College Journalism program. The editorial and advertising materials are free from prior restraint by vir tue 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. PRINTING BY NEWS PUBLISHERS PRESS
NEWS
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2012
3
Budget: District seizes ELAC reserve
Continued from page 1 pass, there is going to be even more classes cut,” Hernandez said. “And even if it does pass, what we have planned for the spring is still a reduction from what we had last spring, because we’re over the number of students the state gave us money for.” President Farley Herzek said that California has never valued education. “California has always ranked in between 43 and 48 in public school funding.” The money would be allocated to temporary tax revenues. Eighty-nine percent would go to K-12 schools and 11 percent to community colleges. “If Proposition 30 doesn’t pass ... the cuts would be draconian,” Herzek said.
CN/HUGO DOMINGUEZ, JR.
Open for business— Library chair Choonhee Rhim and librarian Randall Gust at the research desk of the Helen Miller Bailey Library at its new location in the F3 building on Aug. 30, 2012. They host a plethora of workshops that include smart Google searching and how to cite your sources and avoid plagiarism.
Herzek: New interim president faces crisis Continued from page 1 According to the state of California Attorney General, personal income tax rates would increase a minimum of .4 percent for people making more than $7,316, up to 2.2 percent for people making more than 2.5 million, for 12 years. Of the two propositions Herzek said, “I prefer Proposition 30.” If Proposition 30 does pass, according to the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, ELAC will face over 60 percent cuts for winter session and sixteen percent cuts for spring session.
The cuts for this fall have been six percent. In spite of the significance of the upcoming election that will determine the future funding of ELAC, Herzek does not have an official position. Herzek said, “I don’t feel comfortable suggesting positions for people.” “People need to do their own research and make the best informed decision they can make,” he said. Herzek attributes his political neutrality to both personal and professional preference. Even if Proposition 30 passes there may still be some budget shortfall based
on the LACCD projections. Herzek advocates student voter registration and student awareness of political issues. “Yes, we are having a general presidential election, but it is the local elections that have the most impact. The President of the United States is not going to affect the amount (sic) of sections we offer next semester. Proposition 30 will.” About the professors at ELAC, Herzek said, “Community college professor positions are highly coveted. I think a community college professor is one of the best occupations there is, hands down.”
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
®
INFORMATION SESSION AT WESTFIELD SANTA ANITA
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 NOON – 2 P.M.
CN/HUGO DOMINGUEZ , JR.
A Fresh face— The entrance to the Helen Miller Bailey Library at its new location in the F3 building on Thursday, Aug. 30, 2012. The library’s doors are finally open for students to utilize the upgraded facilities which include 145 computers, a self checkout machine, a children’s corner private study rooms and library workshops.
South Gate shuttle victim of budget cuts Staff Writer Students commuting from the main campus to and from South Gate can no longer rely on the East Los Angeles College shuttle for free transportation. According to Al Rios, ELAC South Gate Campus Dean of Academic Affairs, the shuttle was cancelled this fall due to the school’s budget cuts. It cost the school about $58,000 to maintain the shuttle for two semesters, and given competitive interest in the school, it was decided to discontinue the shuttle services, Rios said. According to Rios, an increasing number of ELAC students and faculty used the shuttle last fall. Furthermore, the number of trips the shuttle made over the years, dwindled down from 16 daily trips to nine. “The shuttle helped folks from here to get to campus to get additional services the center does not provide,” Rios said.
In addition, Rios said that the shuttle also gave students the opportunity to attend college and have a shot at becoming marketable for a job. Students who used the shuttle saw other benefits to using its services. Gabriella Lopez, South Gate Librarian and shuttle rider, said the shuttle service was open to all ELAC students. They didn’t need to be taking a class at the South Gate Campus to use the services. Second-year student, Gabriela Bojorquez, used the shuttle during the spring semester and said that it gave her the opportunity to take classes at the two campuses at the same time. Lilia Ledezma, a third-year student and South Gate resident, said, “ I’d use the shuttle to get from the main campus to South Gate.” She would commute with her friend from her house to the main campus, but didn’t have a ride back home at times, so that would be when she used the shuttle. Other students like Bojorquez, also saw the economic and time
saving benefits to riding the shuttle. She said that her commute to the South Gate campus without the shuttle would cost about $3 daily. If she had to take an extra bus to the main campus, she would have to spend $6 daily. It would also take extra time to travel. The shuttle was free for students and made exceptions for people who were about to enroll, saving money and time, Rios said. Given the current state of the school budget, Rios also said that it is hard to tell if the shuttle will come back into service. Bojorquez hopes they bring the shuttle back next semester for good. Some students will not have the opportunity to ride the shuttle, like Stephanie Villanueva, a firstyear student who is taking all her classes at the South Gate campus and eventually may have to purchase a public bus pass. She said, “I would have loved to have the opportunity to take the shuttle because it would have given me the chance to take classes at the main campus.”
- A nonprofit, WASC-accredited university - Online and on-campus associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs - Talk with an advisor and create the right education plan to meet your goals - Experience the flexibility of taking an online class - Learn about financial aid options
Learn more at the National University Online Information Center in Arcadia © 2012 National University 11145
By VERONICA HURTADO
www.ELACCampusNews.com
Westfield Santa Anita 400 S. Baldwin Avenue Arcadia, CA 91007
www.nu.edu 626.254.5800
The University of Values An Affiliate of The National University System
FEATURE A new hope for women’s volleyball 4
By DULCE CARILLO Staff Writer New East Los Angeles College women’s head volleyball coach Elliott Walker has his Huskies looking forward to the new season through optimistic eyes. Recommended by former head coach Trisha Marx, he admits that this will be a difficult season, but feels good about the team’s future. “This season will be a transition season,” says Walker, who wants his team to develop the skills they already have, and to discover new skills in the process. Marx is a personal friend of Walker and wanted him to take over the team while she takes a break from coaching and welcomes her newborn daughter. Walker graduated from Verbum Dei High School, an all boys’ catholic school, where he didn’t play volleyball primarily because there was no team, but that didn’t stop him. He played in a recreational league and also in elementary and junior high. He’s been coaching volleyball for more then 25 years now, most recently at Bishop Mora Salesian High School in Boyle Heights.
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2012
He managed to make playoff history while coaching at Salesian, another all boys’ catholic high school, leading the team to the CIF championship. Walker was able to get the most from his players at Salesian, even though the team was undersized and played against much larger competition. According to Los Angeles Times on-line video, “Salesian High’s volleyball team plays above its head,” mentioning that the boys were not your average 6’3 volleyball players. The team averaged about 5’9” but still made history with their skill, desire and with the support of their coach who believed in them from day one. Walker takes everything that comes in his life in a positive manner. He has been teaching the team how to encounter everything with courage and to thrive to become the best. “The ladies will be competing with other teams who will have the height and training as professionals but I want them to learn that skills and having the passion to play, will give the other teams a good competition,” said Walker. He also got the team to follow his “commitment to excellence,”
philosophy. “I want the ladies to first dedicate themselves with school and volleyball. Discipline by understanding the tasks and to finish with being trustworthy on the court and outside the court,” said Walker. Walker considers himself a coach and an educator. He believes that everyone is expected to take risks and stay positive at all times, even when things don’t turn out as expected. He earned his masters degree in Education in Curriculum and Technology from the University of Phoenix and his bachelors degree in Liberal Studies from California State University Los Angeles. “Education is the key,” said Walker. Without the education he earned in life, he wouldn’t be the person he is today. He encourages all of his studentathletes to chase their dreams. Nothing is impossible and negativity should be taken as a challenge that will motivate his players to compete. Walker trusts his athletes and describes them as dynamos. He also hopes that by the end his first season, the Huskies will continue to follow his philosophy of commitment to excellence and use it in their life after volleyball.
CN/erik luna
DIG IT—Head Coach Elliot Walker explains to one of his players the importance of being agile while setting the ball at volleyball practice in the East Los Angeles College’s Women’s Gym last Thursday, September 6, 2012.
ELAC legend returns as new basketball coach By ALFONSO RIVERA Staff Writer
CN/Hugo Dominguez, JR.
shooting hoops—Head coach John Mosley coaches the men’s basketball team at the men’s gym during practice on Thursday, September 6.
ASU rental helps student afford books By JANE FERNANDEZ Staff Writer Book prices are only going up, but ELACs Associated Student Union is making books available at affordable rental prices throughout the semester. ASU offers student members the facility of renting books and other scholastic materials, such as calculators, they might need throughout the semester at low prices. Some of the books students can rent include Math 115, Biology 3, and Sociology. Book rental prices range from 10 to 25 dollars depending on the subject. This year ASU purchased 35 thousand dollars worth of books. Some of the books were either newer editions, which include Spanish 1, while other books such as Psychology 1 were of higher demand in the school campus. “Teachers need to make a commitment on using a book two to three years for us to be able to buy the book”, said ASU President
Jennifer Estrada. According to Estrada, ASU is trying to get more teachers to participate and make contracts with them so they could improve book rental services for upcoming semesters. ASU will only buy a book if enough teachers agree on using a book for a certain amount of semesters. Once the faculty members make that commitment, ASU will be able to increase the book rental system as they make sure that the money will be spend properly. During the first week of school ASU started their book rental program with around 1,400 books, by mid-day Thursday they were down to about 100 books according to Estrada. ASU membership fee is $7 during fall, other benefits students get from becoming members include discounts, chances to win giveaways and free snacks during finals week. For more information about the book rental program or to rent books and other materials visit the ASU office located on G8-119.
Mosley serves as a career coach who coordinates and assists former athletes. There is a familiar face on the Husky hardwood this season at East Los Angeles College. His name is John Mosley, and he is the new head basketball coach at ELAC. Mosley replaces Rob Rivera, who stepped down after 23 years at ELAC. Rivera served 16 years as assistant head coach and seven as head coach. Mosley is a 1991 Washington Prep grad and a former starting point guard for the Huskies from 91 to 93 seasons. While at ELAC, Mosley had a stellar career. In his sophomore year, Mosley not only led his squad, but the state as well, in assists, averaging 11.1 per game. That figure is an ELAC record. Mosley also has the record for most assists in a game at ELAC with 13 during the 91-92 season. Mosley earned All-State Honorable Mention his sophomore year on a Husky team that is considered by many to be one of the best ever in ELAC Basketball history. After his time at ELAC, Mosley
C A M P U S
VOICE:
“ I was actually in the fourth grade when it happened, and I was confused because at that age I didn’t know what was going on. But, I remember that when I went to school, my teacher made us color this big flag and I was coloring the strips. Then, she put it outside of our school,” Stephanie Santiago said.
lives,” stated Mosley. Mosley coached at Bakersfield through the spring of 2011. He was hired by ELAC on July 1, and has already made a huge impact recruiting kids from the inner city. “It is a pleasure to have John aboard leading our basketball program. He brings a very disciplined and no-nonsense approach that the kids will like. East Los Angeles College is very fortunate to have him coaching our kids,” said Al Cone, ELAC Athletic Director. “I am excited about being back, this is a community that has enabled me to be where I am at today, and I am here to give back, “ said Mosley. In addition to his coaching endeavors, Mosley has also found time to give back to the community. He founded “Saved Through Hoops,” an organization that focuses on inner-city youth and provides counseling and basketball clinics for elementary and junior high students. Mosley is also heavily involved in Athletes 2 Business (A2B), which focuses on college athlete’s career pursuits, after sports and also prepares them for what they will encounter in the working world. “I appreciate the opportunity that Al Cone and the hiring committee have given me. My passion is to see my players graduate to the next level and matriculate to the four year level,” said Mosley.
What were you doing on Sept. 11, 2001 when the planes crashed into the Twin Towers?
“I was playing kickball in grammar school and I remember the national tragedy.” Brian Figueroa said.
www.ELACCampusNews.com
went on to star at The Master’s College, an NAIA school from 1994 to 1996. There he had the opportunity to play alongside Mike Penberthy, a former NBA player and Los Angeles Laker. Mosley led the team to an NAIA Elite Eight and a Sweet 16 berth while running the point and distributing basketballs to his teammates at Master’s. Mosley gained his bachelor’s degree in Kineseology at The Master’s in 1996 and his masters degree in education from National University in 2000. He was inducted into the schools Hall of Fame in 2004 because of his accomplishments on the court. After finishing his collegiate playing career at The Master’s, Mosley played professionally in Brazil and Australia. He returned to the states to teach and coach at Inglewood Christian School in 1997-98 before returning to The Master ’s as assistant basketball coach. .Mosely coached at The Master’s College for eight seasons then went on to Cal State Bakersfield, as an assistant coach and lead recruiter. “My preparation and vast experience against that level of competition has prepared me not only to coach, teach and lead but to have a hands on effect on student’s
“I was actually at work, trying to get in contact with my New York sales representatives.” Kimberley Combert said.
“It was my first semester teaching here. My sister called me on the phone to wake me up… watched the plane hit the second tower… not understanding what was going on.”Professor of Geology Robert West said.
SPORTS ARTS
5 Volleyball opens non-conference play splitting double header
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2012
25-21, lost the second set 25-23, and came back to win the third and Staff Writer fourth sets, 25-21 and 25-17. In a close match all around, The volleyball team started non- ELAC had to take some time out conference with a double-header after they allowed a four-point-run with a 3-1 victory against Mt. San for the Eagles during the first set. Minutes later, serve receiver Jacinto and a 3-0 defeat against Santa Monica College on the road Lorena Cibrian passed to setter Nissa Gamez, who set the ball to last Saturday. The Huskies next game will be the outside hitter Jessica Delgado. Delgado was able to hit down on the road against the California Lutheran University Regals next the line to the opponent’s side of the court to bring the Friday at 7 p.m. Huskies back in the According to returning player Claudia Mosqueda, “Discipline, game. After that, the the Huskies played their best and showed their work determination, Huskies were able dominate the first as a team on the court. and trustworthy to game. “We did better against Jessica Delgado Santa Monica than we had character were in the past,” Mosqueda said evident in the had 18 kills, five blocks and two serve ELAC gave the Corsairs a court.” aces. good rally losing close sets, Claudia Mosqueda 25-21, 25-15, and 25-23. - Elliott Walker knocked down During the first set the 12 kills, had three Huskies led 6-2, but SMC blocks, six digs and a turned the momentum and serve ace. rallied to take back the lead. Gamez slammed According to first-year Head Coach Elliott Walker, the down six kills and had a whopping Huskies seemed to be a stronger 36 set assist kills. She also had three blocks, and two digs. team compared to other seasons. Cibrian added one dig, three assist They were composed with defense and were able to transition kills, two kills, and four service aces. well when attacking offensively. For Walker, Michele Valencia had “Considering the talent and abilities of our players, they were an outstanding performance. “The Husky performance award able to put together the things goes to Michele Valencia, who we practiced. In time, they will stepped it up with a consistent and understand the game and the stellar serving strategy that helped strategies that we employ. the relentless defense with 16 digs “The match against Santa Monica and four saves,” Walker said. proved to be a great learning “The Eagles, like the Corsairs experience and one that helped to proved to be a little taller than the build the confidence of the Lady Huskies, but that didn’t stop them from their efforts to acquire the win, Huskies,” Walker said. “Discipline, determination, and ELAC had a more strategized trustworthy character were evident game against Mt. San Jacinto. The Huskies won a close first set on the court,” Walker said. By DULCE CARRILLO
CN/TADZIO GARCIA
CHASING VICTORY—Megan Magdaleno records a personal best, 19.47 while out-sprinting Karla Gadea from Southwestern by two seconds for third place at the 2012 Rio Hondo Invitational in El Monte, Sept 7.
Women’s cross country wins Rio Hondo Invitational title By TADZIO GARCIA
Staff Writer The women’s cross country team won the 2012 Rio Hondo Invitational while defending its 2011 crown. The men’s team took second place Friday morning at Legg Lake in El Monte. Head Coach Louis Ramirez said the teams ran well. “The season is off to a good start. The kids are hungry. The men’s team looks very strong and we train to finish top 5 in the state. The women’s team also looks good,” Ramirez said. Megan Magdaleno placed third in 19:47, running a personal best. Magdaleno returns from the unranked 2010 team, which took 15th place at those state finals, upsetting ten teams in the process.
Johana Ceja and Magdaleno led the team that year. Ceja placed first in last year’s Rio Hondo invitational. Vanessa Martinez of Oxnard College won the women’s title this year in 19:22. “Martinez is an outstanding young athlete whose hard work paid off,” Oxnard Heach Coach Geno Sharp said. Rounding out the Huskies that scored were Linda Alvarado who ran in 20:54, also a personal best and Kattie Padilla with a time of 21:00. Magdaleno, Alvarado and Padilla were named in the All-Top 10 women’s team. They were followed by Gloria Hernandez who clocked in at 21:13, also a personal record. Briana Lewis was in the final, scoring spot for the Huskies,
running 22:13. The men’s team had the task of facing No. 2-ranked San Bernardino Valley College, who won state titles from 2006 to 2010, and Southwestern, who finished No. 14 at last year’s state finals. The Huskies held tight with SBVC in each scoring position but were eventually outscored by 21 points. In turn, ELAC bested highly touted Southwestern by 18 points. Tops for the Huskies were Kris Chacon who placed sixth in 20:29 and Andres De La Cruz (20:47), who placed eighth. Both were named to the All-Top 10 men’s team. “My teammates push me when we train. We pull the best out of each other and I did better than I thought I would,” Chacon said.
Husky Andres Rosas clocked in at 21:21. Rosas missed the All-Top 10 team by two seconds but edged host Rio Hondo’s top runner, Charlie Gonzalez, by two seconds for 11th place. Gonzalo Ceja and Oscar Jasso closed out the scoring for the Huskies. East Los Angeles competes in the SoCal Preview Sept. 15 with the results showcasing most of the top teams in the state. Both Husky teams will compete against more than 500 athletes. The top seven runners from each college compete in the women’s 5-kilometer race at 9:30 a.m. and the men’s 4-mile competition at 10:15 a.m. Overflow races, including several Huskies, begin at 11 a.m. for the women and 11:45 a.m. for the men.
Women’s soccer falls in upset home opener By ERIK LUNA
CN/MEGAN PERRY
HUSKY BALL— ELAC’s defensive back Clayton Gerald, No. 17, just makes it out of bounds in the first quarter after catching his first interception of the season at Saturday evening’s home game versus Santa Barbara Community College.
Staff Writer Despite their 3-2 victory against Santa Ana College last Wednesday, the women’s soccer team suffered a 3-1 home loss against the San Bernardino Valley College Wolverines last Friday. The Huskies will host Taft next Tuesday at 5 p.m. in their last preseason game. As a result the Huskies are now ranked 20th statewide and hold an overall record of 2-2-1, while the Wolverines dropped to No. 25 with an overall record of 2-1-1. “We just came out flat in the second half of the game,” ELAC’s Head Coach Tessa Troglia said.
Things looked up for the Huskies early on, when Brianna Ramirez zipped one through Wolverine goalkeeper Jennifer Keats to score the first goal at 33:38, in the first half. “I was shocked when I made that first goal. I was also disappointed with how we played in the second half. That was not our team,” Ramirez said. Soon after, Wolverine Braelyn Tirella answered right back with a goal of her own at the 29:30 mark. “In the first half we put some good things together. We had many chances, quality chances, but unfortunately we didn’t score off them. “We probably just came out too
confident in the second half, because we were dominating the game,” Troglia said. After the second half kicked off, things took a turn for the worse for the Huskies. Wolverine Milan Galloway managed to get Belen Rodriguez, ELAC’s goalkeeper, by herself to score the tie-breaking goal. “The second half went well for us. We were winning balls in the middle. At that point we capitalized our speed,” SBVC Head Coach Kristin Hauge said. The final goal that cemented the Wolverines’s victory was made by Stephanie De la Torre. At that point the SBVC fans started chanting for their team.
Huskies stun Vaqueros in late rally thriller By ANTHONY MERJANOFF Staff Writer
The football team, ranked 20th statewide, scored a wild, come from behind victory by scoring 15 points in the last 8:20 minutes over Santa Barbara City College, 28-27, last Saturday at Weingart Stadium. The comeback began with a 62-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Aaron Cantu to Willie Udofia, which cut the Vaqueros’s lead to 27-19, in front of a vocal crowd. Hector Cazales tackled Jared Evans, SBCC’s quarterback, in the end zone scoring a safety for East Los Angeles College. As a result, the Huskies scored a safety cutting the lead to 27-21, with only 7:23 remaining in the game. Facing fourth and two at 3:29, Cantu converted a 7-yard pass to receiver Carlos Portillo. The big first down play set up a rushing touchdown for running
back Preston Oliver who scored his second touchdown of the game. It was up to kicker Allan Infante to kick the PAT and give the Huskies the lead. Infante was on one out of three PAT’s during the game at that point. The PAT was good giving the Huskies their first lead of the game, 28-27. “Feels good to get that kick in; we needed it to win,” Infante said. SBCC had time for one last drive when quarterback Evans marched them down the field. A big 22-yard pass from Evans tight-end Tyson Heller near the end of the game left the Vaqueros in field goal range. Evans stepped back and got swarmed by the Huskies defense. Cornerback Breeon Moreno forced a fumble, which was recovered by defensive back Kenneth Moore. With 47 seconds remaining, ELAC had the game wrapped up. “Our kids deserve all the credit.
They didn’t give up and it just goes to show that they are hungry and they have a lot of heart,” Head Coach Steve Mojarro said. SBCC Head Coach Craig Moropoulos said that the game left the Vaqueros heartbroken. Despite winning, the Huskies see room for improvement said Cantu and Mojarro. “The win is definitely great for us because we overcame a lot of adversity. Just the feeling of getting that ‘W’ in front of your home crowd definitely means a lot to us,” Cantu said. “We are looking to get better. It definitely was not out best game,” Cantu said. ELAC will travel to West Los Angeles College Saturday. Game time is 1:00 p.m. “I think West L.A. College is going to be very tough team. We need to work harder and correct all the mistakes that we did today in order to beat a team like West L.A College,” Mojarro said.
CN/VERONICA HURTADO
battle for the ball—Husky Brianna Ramirez (left) and Wolverine Diana Hernandez, No. 13 rub elbow to elbow going after the ball during last Friday’s soccer match at ELAC.
www.ELACCampusNews.com
6
ARTS
EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2012
Justo Almario Quartet kicks off Friday jazz series By VIVIAN RAMIREZ Staff Writer
CN/Lourdes Espinoza
A Blast of Inspiration—Carlos Almaraz: A Life Recalled includes photographs of himself during his many art ventures as well as untitled oil paintings on canvas and pastels on
Inspiration: Almaraz died at age 48 on Dec. 11, 1989. Along with the exhibit, there will also be a solo show written and performed by Guerrero, master of ceremonies. The show is inspired by Guerrero’s lifelong friendship with Almaraz. The first show will be free of charge to students with ID at the P2 Proscenium Theater on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 1 p.m., followed by a second performance on Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. There will be two panels. The first, The Artist as Friends, is on Nov. 10 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the
VPAM hosts Almaraz’s art
lecture hall of the Vincent Price Art Museum. The second, The Artist in Context, is on Dec. 1 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the lecture hall of the Vincent Price Art Museum. The panels are free and open to the public. Victoria Price, said “We want to be the center of this community. We want people to really feel like our doors are open, and this is for everyone.” All the activities that the museum offers bring the new facilities to the public eye. ELAC Interim President Farley
Herzek thanked all who shared their works of art by Carlos Almaraz. Herzek said that the event gives ELAC exposure, and that it brings out people who may have never experienced ELAC or East L.A. before. “It’s just a great opportunity,” Herzek said. Mark Guerrero, Dan Guerrero’s brother, sang a “corrido” about Carlos Almaraz in which he said, “We pose a toast and raise a glass for Carlos Almaraz,” which concluded the guest speakers at the reception. The exhibit has been on display since Aug. 25 and will end Dec. 8.
along to. Almario came up with the idea of using 14/8 meter during his youth. He was easing into his music education and wanted to do something more abstract than the standard 4/4 meter. Equally impressive was Fats Waller, “Jitterbug Waltz,” which featured a cajon solo by Rodriguez. The cajon is a wooden, boxshaped percussion instrument native to South America. It produces different pitches, depending on the area where it is struck. The sound from the cajon, accompanied with snippets of bass and guitar, echoed off the back walls of the recital hall, producing the
sensation of being inside a box. It was a wonderful solo and even felt a little sad. Rodriguez also attached a thin chain of beads to one of his drum set cymbals, creating a sizzle effect. He would sometimes tap the cymbal with his finger while playing the cajon or bongo, blending the sounds. The quartet performed other tunes such as Rafael Hernandez’ “Lamento Borincano,” and Almario’s original composition “Born to Love.” Almario is on the East Los Angeles College advisory board of commercial music and constantly works on community outreach.
The First Friday Jazz Series kicked off the new semester with a performance by the Justo Almario Quartet in the S2 Recital Hall on Friday. The group is composed of bassist John Pena, guitarist Ramon Stagnaro, drummer Walter Rodriguez, and extensively features saxophonist Almario. A well-known musician in the industry, Almario has shared the stage with Tito Puente, Charles Mingus, and Queen Latifah, in addition to working on the “Happy Feet” motion picture soundtrack. The quartet opened the concert with the popular jazz standard “Autumn Leaves.” Almario’s version of the tune was more upbeat than the original and featured a saxophone and electric guitar solo. Competing for most popular tune of the night was an original composition by Almario titled “Seventh Avenue.” The piece w as written in the complex meter of CN/oliver blanco 14/8, yet is easy for FIST PUMP— Filled with joy, Justo Almario (left) pumps up the crowd while the audience to clap
Walter Rodriguez drums away during the First Friday Jazz Series last Friday in the S2 Recital hall.
Kung Fu Tea Bar brings retro decor to Monterey Park By LOURDES ESPINOZA Staff Writer PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDEDMOVIE.COM
‘Branded’ aims to confuse audience By ERIK LUNA Staff Writer Advertising might not always be intriguing, but in the new mysteryaction movie “Branded” it takes on a whole new life. The movie, which is a half love story, half confusion incarnate, takes place in Moscow where advertising controls what people eat, watch and drink. The protagonist of the movie Misha Galkin, portrayed by Ed Stoppard, is an advertising specialist who goes mad once he discovers the truth behind advertising. The first half is of Galkin getting into the advertising game with Bob Gibbons, portrayed by Jeffrey Tambor. The second half showed Galkin trying to destroy monsters that no one can see. It is a complete 360 degree turn from the beginning of the film. Tambor, who is one of the more main stream stars of the movie, doesn’t put that much into his role. He has few comedic moments, but that’s about it. Random moments make this movie a bit more enjoyable. Some of these moments resemble “Family Guy” jokes, which is a nice change from the mass confusion
this movie causes. The dialogue in the movie is quite entertaining, especially from Galkin. His descent into madness makes for a awkwardly-hilarious moment of clarity, in which he delivers a psychobabble speech to his onscreen girlfriend Abby, portrayed by Leelee Sobieski. This movie will either speak to viewers, or completely confuse and lose them. It is a perfect combination of a confused plot. Some of it is in Russian, so if reading subtitles isn’t a desirable way to spend the night, this movie is not recommended. The movie, which was directed by Jamie Bradshaw and Aleksandr Dulerayn, was originally named “The Mad Cow,” which plays into one of the more bizarre scenes in the movie – those who are squeamish beware. The graphics are mediocre, at best, and the camera tends to shake constantly during the “monster” scenes. The concept is surely original, yet it will definitely receive some peculiar responses. The movie runs for 106, long and confusing minutes and has an R rating for foul language, sex-related humor and partial nudity.
Dream Act/ Deferred Action Special Student Rate: $325 There are no appeals, reconsiderations or second tries— Do it Right the fiRSt time! • Legal Status • Work Permit • Eligibility for Driver’s License • Eligibility for Social Security Number • Eligibility for Government Grants & Student Loans!
finnegAn & DibA lAw coRpoRAtion 3660 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 710, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 480-0292 • info@fdlegal.com
The grand opening of Kung Fu Tea Bar has already welcomed many with its retro decor, Asian pop music and a menu that offers affordable meat dishes ranging from the Taiwanese Minced Pork Bowl ($4.99) to the Enoki Beef Bowl ($5.99). Curious customers entered this new location enjoying its free Wi-Fi, outside dining and student specials. Although the music may be distracting for studying, its comfortable setting offers a great place for students to socialize, catch up on homework and eat. Their double-sided menu had both desserts, teas, snow ices, rice plates, stir-fried plates and even brick toast. The drinks are creative and appealing to both the eye and sweet tooth. Their red bean smoothie ($3.58) was deliciously refreshing with its sweet undertones. During this heat, the chilly texture blended perfectly with the flavor of red beans as they sat under the slush. The mango milk smoothie ($3.58) was mellow and contained hints of vanilla. Its creamy texture is what sets this treat apart.
Smoothies and iced milk teas are reasonably sized and their plastic cups are fun to hold. They are short and fat making you feel as though you’ll never finish your drink. The sweet cream brick toast ($3.85) was simplistic at first sight as one lingering piece of brick toast was adorned with one sliced strawberry and what seemed to be a
ladle of sweetness. It seemed almost too sweet to finish. This place is well suited for students and people who enjoy a variety of sweet drinks and coffee. Students might be attracted to the $2.50 BBQ chicken bento student special which combines white rice and steamed vegetables. The $4.99 student specials carry BBQ chicken,
a fried fish fillet and vegetables. Another key attraction for students would be the free Wi-Fi and ability to print for $.10 a page, away from campus and the crowded local Starbucks. Kung Fu Tea Bar is located on 2215 S. Atlantic Blvd., Monterey Park, CA. 91754. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
CN/LOURDES ESPINOZA
SIMPLY SWEET—The Fresh Fruit Green Tea (left) and Honey Pudding Milk Tea with Boba (right) are among Kiung Fu Tea Bar’s creative drinks offered for under $4.
‘Lawless’ expresses true life tales By JAIR FUENTES Staff Writer Based on actual events and inspired by the true-life tales of Matt Bondurant’s prohibition era novel, “The Wettest County in the World,” “Lawless” tells the story of three moonshining brothers from Franklin, Virginia. The film stars Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, and Jason Clarke as the Bondurant brothers, Jack, Forest and Howard. The three brothers run a successful bootleg liquor business from their bar, when Forest hires a new waitress, Maggie, played by Jessica Chastain, Maggie is searching for a new place away from the big city. At the same time, Jack is pursuing his love interest, Bertha, played by Mia Wasikowska who is a preacher’s daughter.
All seems well until special agent Charlie Rakes, played by Guy Pearce, demands a cut of the town’s profits, putting the operation in danger. Many townspeople eventually give in to the intimidating Rakes. The Bondurants refuse to pay, thus becoming primary targets who must now defend what they have built resulting in an actionpacked and bloody finale. The performances, which require a certain persona and accent, are very good, especially LaBeouf who delivers a powerful performance in an unusual role that audiences have not seen in the past. Hardy also delivers a subtle, yet strong performance as Forest, the eldest Bondurant. The female characters, played by Chastain and Wasikowska, do their best with their limited amount of development. Pearce plays the perfect villain with his malevolent
www.ELACCampusNews.com
manner who manages to bring a sense of class to the character. However, the real star of the film is Cricket, Jack’s best friend, played by Dane DeHaan. Cricket is an endearing character who emotionally connects with the audience through his friendly and innocent personality. The best element in this film is the look. Set in the 1930’s, the director does a nice job of placing key details such as cars, signs and even soda bottles that seem straight out of that era into the film. The sets and details immerse the audience into that world. Of course, no film is perfect. There were some problems, one being the script. It was written by Nick Cave and co-written by Matt Bondurant, author of “The Wettest County in the World” and relative of the Bondurant clan. Surprisingly, the writing is very choppy and
vague. Some of the dialogue is not clearly explained and because of that, the film can be hard to follow at times. Another problem is the transition between scenes. Some scenes are left unexplored as the film moves on to other situations. However, the biggest problem lies in the lack of character development, particularly with the female leads. There’s no background, no depth,and therefore no connection with these characters. They show up with no proper introduction. “Lawless” is an enjoyable film with minor imperfections, while at times very violent, it fulfills its purpose in telling the story and gives some insight to life during the prohibition era. “Lawless” is directed by John Hillcoat and is rated R for strong bloody violence, language, and some sexuality/nudity.