Spring 2016, Issue 15

OPINION Coping with stress is a serious issue for college students.

FEATURES

ARTS

Bilingual Skanking Reggae Festival features international bands.

Espacio 1839 presents Eres Poderosa in a night of art exhibition.

See page 3

Volume 73, Issue 15

See page 4

See page 5

Single copy free - additional copies 50 cents

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

www.elaccampusnews.com

Football coach resigns declined to comment and declined to disclose the fire alarm report.

The Sheriff’s Department was next to Marty’s office at Weingart Stadium.

Eric Marty resigned his position Instead, the sheriffs told Campus as football coach on Feb. 26 amid News the report was not available allegations of damaging fire alarms to the public and in order to in his office. receive the report, they would The Monterey Park Fire have to request it through ELAC Department was summoned to East administration.

Los Angeles College Feb. 6 on a Upon receiving the request for fire alarm response. access to the public report, ELAC Marty responded with his side of administration used what is called the story. the Public Records Act to withhold “People around ELAC can the report stating that under the say and will say whatever they Public Records Act, police records like. I resigned to pursue other cannot be granted to the public. professional opportunities,” Marty Thorough research was said. conducted on the Public Records Inside Marty’s old office at Act. It was discovered the Weingart Stadium was a fire alarm administration wrongly withheld box, which Marty described as the public report, claiming it as an constantly “exemption.” beeping.

This exemption According under the to Marty, California Public the proper Records Act protocols states, “Police were taken to reports, rap sheets remove the fire and arrest records alarm box. are exempt.”

“I put in the This fire alarm proper work incident was orders three thus protected by weeks prior administration (to Feb. 6). I under a police went through report exemption. the proper This raised protocol,” questions about Marty said. the reason A number behind Marty’s Eric Marty of the athletic resignation. Was department Marty forced out? personnel, who declined to be “I got paid $25,000 a year. I mentioned by name, all had the got paid less than these janitors same story about Marty and the fire on the campus. I ran this program alarm and said Marty pulled fire like USC, a division one program, alarms out of frustration due to a working over 50 hours per week,” beeping sound in his office.

Marty said.

“The beeping sound didn’t allow Many in the athletic department me to work in peace in my office. said a new coach was hired within In the month of January, I did not an hour of Marty’s resignation. get paid and I worked for free,” Bobby Godinez, formally a Marty said. defensive coordinator from Victor Marty worked for free in January Valley College, is now ELAC’s because the off-season did not new head coach. require coaching. Marty felt in order to progress the program, he had to work overtime, for free.

ELAC Sheriff's Department RESIGNATION Continued on page 3

BY DAN GUDINO Staff Writer

CN/DAN GUDINO

WE’LL BE BACK—East Los Angeles women’s basketball poses with state runner-up trophy at the south gym.

Women fall short at state

BY DAN GUDINO Staff Writer

T

he women’s basketball team was seconds away from winning its first state championship in school history, but lost to Mount San Antonio College 57-55 at Los Positas College on Sunday.

The Huskies had an opportunity with 1.4 seconds in the game for a final shot, but did not get a shot off before the buzzer.

East Los Angeles College, the state runner-up, lost to MSAC for the third time this year.

MSAC claimed its seventh state title in school history, matching Ventura College for the most in state history.

The Huskies went into halftime with a 17-point lead that was blown through the second half.

“We knew every team basketball, not just Mt. SAC can come back and make a run. A 20-point lead in the NBA means nothing, just like at this level. We answered when they came back and led, by seven again, then once again, we had the lead with 18 seconds.We fought hard,” ELAC head coach Bruce Turner said.

MSAC sophomore guard, Tahniya Sweatt, drained a jump shot with 18 seconds to go to give MSAC the lead.

"To be here five years in a row is already tough. To have the opportunity to get back and avenge a two-year period where we lost a (finals) game, it's a wonderful thing. I'm proud of these girls," MSAC head coach Brian Crichlow said.

The trip to Livermore for the Huskies came as a Tiffani

Martinez. They played like seniors at a four-year school.

It’s amazing because we just got them last August and for them to progress this far is truly remarkable,” Turner said.

After the game, Allissa Gomez and sophomore forward Jessica Sanchez were selected to join the final four “All Tournament” team.

“It feels good to be mentioned even though we didn’t get the win. I’m just so happy about our team. We’re hard fighters, we didn’t give up and we played as best as we can. I really want to be back in the championship,” Gomez said.

Gomez led the Huskies with a team-high 13 points.

Expectations for next year are high. For the returing players the talk was redemption and getting another shot at state.

“I do want another shot at the state championship next year. Coach and I have already talked about it,” ELAC freshman Anastasia Tsybaeva said.

Martinez this year made the All South Coast Conference North first Team.

“We’re going to win state. We’re only losing four sophomores and we’ll fill in those spots because we’re getting more talent,” Martinez said Yasmine Tweedy, Destiny Lea, Saray Rivera, Jessica Sanchez and Jasmine Gates finished their basketball careers at ELAC this season. .

“It was a five-star experience. The experience was second to none. Being two points away from a championship was intense. I’ll never forget this team, ever,” Jasmine Gates said.

Student Union elections off to slow start

BY STEPHANIE GARIBAY Staff Writer The Associated Student Union at East Los Angeles College has started to accept applications from students for the 2016-17 ASU board, although no applications have been turned in.

“We really need to spread the word about these elections. That’s why no one has actually applied because no one knows about them,” ASU president Romel Lopez said.

Although the elections are being promoted around campus, Lopez still does not believe that is enough to get students attention.

“We post flyers all around campus, we tell all the clubs who

News Briefs

are chartered in, but at the end of the day, it’s really about word of mouth and people actually talking about it and telling their friends about it,” Lopez said.

Any ELAC student is allowed to apply for the board as long as they meet the qualifications. Students who are qualified must be enrolled in five or more units, maintain a current GPA of at least 2.0, pay the $7 fee to be an ASU member and not have completed more than 80 units, although if they have, they can petition to have that appealed.

The positions that will be elected include president, vice president, vice president of finance, treasurer, chief justice, chief delegate, historian and secretary.

ASU board members will recieve a stipend while they are in office.

“It’s honestly not that much. It comes out to be about two dollars an hour. You have to really enjoy what you do. You have to enjoy advocating for students,” Lopez said.

Executive board members are required to be in their office for at least four hours a week.

“We are required to attend at least one shared governance committee meeting and they are usually two hours long and they are twice a month,” Lynette Dolatre, vice president of finance, said.

Along with new board members, the Students Activities Office will also move to a new location after

Food giveaway Free food from“The Habit Burger Grill” will be given to ASU members. The food will be located at the Stadium Garden on Wednesday, March 23 from noon to 1p.m. while supplies last.

spring break in the Student Center.

The new offices will also have a new lay out.

“Right now there are eight executive board members. Six of them share offices. In this new building there are going to be four executive board members sharing one big office, the president will keep his own. I’m sharing an office with the treasurer, which is really important and the executive vice president gets her own office,” Dolatre said.

The new office will also include a separate room for clubs members who want to make posters.

“In this current office when club members come in we have to push all the tables together and it

gets really crowded, so with this new office it’s going to be great to have a separate room just for that,” Dolatre said.

After submitting an application, candidates must attend a mandatory orientation in the Student Activities Office.

Candidates must set up an appointment for the orientation.

The current application deadline to become an ASU board member is March 18, but may be delayed until the end of the month because of scheduling conflicts.

“March is just really busy for us right now. I had to change my budget affairs committee meeting a couple times. When we start school, we start getting notices for

other meetings, for other things that take priority so we reschedule as we go,” Dolatre said.

Voting will take place April 1920 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. by the northeast side of the ASU parking lot. Results will be posted in F5 212 on May 13.

This is Dolatre and Lopez’s last year on the ASU board since they are both transferring out.

“I learned a lot from being an ASU board member. It’s dedication, but you gain a lot from it. For the new board members I would say come in early during the summer and shadow who ever you are replacing. Get to know the board and ask as many questions as possible,” Dolatre said.

Blood drive

Black Dance Matters

Students are welcomed to donate blood at a blood drive on March 22 and 23 at the free speech area. The blood drive will be from 10 a.m. to 4.p.m. Students must bring an I.D. Students could register but walk-ins are also welcomed.

East Los Angeles College honors women in the Black and women’s history project 2016.

The dance will take place at the S2 Recital Hall today at 12:10 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. Enterance is free and food is also free.

2

Opinion

EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS

Depression gets a hold of Elans DIEGO OLIVARES Staff Writer Coping with depression is a serious issue that an East Los Angeles College student could be dealing with, or any college student for that matter.

This is an issue that hits close to home for me. Ever since high school, I’ve struggled with bouts of depression. I thought it might have been a temporary problem at the time. I was unaware that it would continue into my 20s.

Depression is usually due to low self-esteem, personal issues or mental illness.

Other reasons for depression include genetics and social alienation.

“The past history of trauma and history of abuse are strong reasons, as well as grief and loss,” ELAC Therapist Joyce Green said. “If these events are unresolved, it could manifest into depression.”

Depression is considered the main reason why college students drop out. According to an article from the University of Michigan, this is due to a loss of interest in educational studies.

With college being a stressful and drama-filled environment, it’s not a surprise that this could occur.

There are students who work hard to achieve perfect grades, sometimes for financial aid or transfer reasons.

Being unable to achieve this could be a stressful blow. It could cause students to feel like they’re unable to achieve anything.

“I would say at least 30% of my caseload suffer from depression,” Green said. “And sometimes it's along with other disorders. This is known as comorbid.”

Other causes include problems with loved ones, including friends and family. Clashes with family over career and educational goals factor into this.

College is a time when students begin to feel independent and want to follow their own plans. Some families believe this could go against set goals they have for their children. A student who wants to major in music, but is forced by their family to major in math is

one example. This could cause the student to feel trapped and cause depression.

Problems with friends and loved ones is another factor. Clashing with people who are as emotional and naive about life as you are is obvious.

Depressed students try to reach out to their friends in times of sadness.

Friends could be so busy with their own problems that they fail to realize their friend’s depression.This results in a depressed student feeling lonely and having nobody to turn to.

It creates feelings of rejection and loneliness.

The feeling of loneliness could sometimes be the result of a depressed student wanting to be alone. They may want to push away the friends or family members who do attempt to reach out.

“People might feel embarrassed,”

Green said. “They associate counseling like it's crazy, and that’s not true at all.”

As previously mentioned, I’ve had bouts of depression through much of my life. I had dreams of my own that I had to abandon due to personal reasons, which caused me to feel trapped.

I’ve struggled with my classes because I wasn't able to meet standards. This caused me to consider dropping out of ELAC for good. I’ve also had clashes with friends and loved ones that further my depressive bouts. Even loved ones who tried to help me were emotionally affected by my depression.

This is something that I failed to realize as they were struggling with their own issues. I’ve never noticed how my depression could negatively affect those around me. Students

who suffer from depression need to overcome this feeling. Depression worsens to the point that it could lead to substance abuse and even suicide.

Depressed students sometimes feel like there’s no hope for them.

However, there really is hope for anybody. “Seek help and talk to somebody. Don’t keep it a secret.”

Green said. “You might find that other people are feeling the same way.”

Students need to talk to counselors and professionals if they’re feeling sad. Anyone who’s feeling depression shouldn’t be shy about it. They must be as open about it as possible. ELAC’s Student Health Center has people ready to listen and aid. There are also call centers that help people dealing with depression.

“We have individuals counseling,

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2015

we also make referrals to get medication,” Green said. “With counseling, we could identify solutions and to get to the root of what’s making you feel depressed.”

Family members and friends who know loved ones dealing with depression should help as well.

They should be there for them no matter what.

“A lot of times, depression happens because you're holding your feelings in,” Green said. “Have supportive relationships and social interactions. Be around people you trust.”

Depressed students are going to need all the emotional support available.They should accept whatever emotional aid comes their way.

Finding activities that interest depressed students is one form of aid. Keeping a journal that records all their moods helps improve a person’s emotional state.

Writing about how one feels and sharing it with others is a healthy way to express it. Students who work hard need to simplify their lives during school and work time.

Making their lives simpler takes away stress. Stress is one of the other causes of depression according to a study by Time.com. Other ways of getting help includes medication, support group and psychiatric help.

People can overcome depression because they have the strength within them to do it.

Depression is something that shouldn’t take control of a person’s life. While I struggle with my bouts of depression, I don’t allow it to take over my life.

During one of my bouts, one of my best friends told me that I could overcome it. That helped inspire me to take charge and try to overcome my sadness.

We are never truly alone, and help is always there when we need it, whether it’s from loved ones, or from within.

“Depression is very common,” Green said. “And we don’t have to face it alone.” If anyone on campus is suffering or knows someone who’s suffering from depression or other mood disorders, they can contact the ELAC Health Office at (323) 265-8651.

No free books for Mr. Flowers ROBERT FLOWERS Staff Writer Books are not free because books are not free and I found this out in quite the unusual manner.

While sitting on the new lawn, drinking Redbull out of a wine glass, I overheard a depressing conversation. One man told the other, “I don’t know why books aren’t free. I can barely afford to pay for my daughter’s braces.” The other man said, “Don’t even worry about it, bro. I meant to tell you that I’m sleeping with your baby moms, so I’ll pay for them. Don’t trip.”

I have never seen such utter violence in my life after that, but none of that mattered as I had come upon quite the story.

I started the investigation off by seeking counsel with one of the most reliable people on campus: a counselor.

I went to my counselor and asked, “Why are books not free?”

He answered, “What the hell are you doing here! Get out!” Rude.

Counselors tell us we can talk to them at any time, but when I break into their house and ask a simple question while they’re taking a shower, then it’s not ok.

And he had the audacity to call the police. Rude. On to the next stage of my investigation.

Next I went to the bookstore.

I asked the girl at the register, “Why are books not free?” She commented, “Because I need a job.

Now your total is $4,056.45. Cash or credit?”

I was so caught up in thought that I thought she said, “Everything is free, because you’re cute. Now run away!”

I did run and was caught soon after. How dare they arrest me for stealing only $4,000+ in erasers and sticky note pads? That’s the true crime!

In any case, after my court

date, off to the next stage of my investigation.

Once again I found myself stuck, trying to figure out my next move in the investigation, when I saw President Obama’s State of the Union speech on the television.

He was saying something about something, but I was more fixated on Michelle Obama in the back.

Sexy, beautiful and healthy. SBH. With that thought, I came to my next step in the investigation: try out for the next Hunger Games. Then, ask the president of ELAC his opinion.

My first task was finding his office. I started with walking around and kicking in every single door I saw. I was in the middle of an investigation, there was no time for pleasantries or knocking or common sense. Halfway through campus, I was starting to think it was impossible to find his office, that this “president” did not exist, until I kicked in a girl’s bathroom stall and felt the familiar sting of a taser. I had a dream of me telling myself to not give up and keep searching until the end. Also something about a map around campus that shows where his office is, but I really wasn’t listening. I was in the middle of an investigation that even I didn’t have time to interrupt.

After waking up in a dumpster, I continued my search. The smell of determination, urine and pride enveloped me. After finally kicking in every door, except one, on campus, I had reached the final one.

It read “President” on it, so I thought I was close, very close.

A receptionist was yelling at me and threatening to call the cops, but I simply told her, “Don’t worry, I work for the newspaper.” She then calmed down and brought me a cup of coffee and gently opened the door. I felt empty not being able to kick in the door. A single tear drop rolled down my cheek.

The President sat there, staring at me. Eyes blazing full of anger,

or gas from Taco Bell. Only the heavens knew. I sat down across from the President and asked the obvious question, “What is that smell?” the President answered, while covering his nose, “You. It’s you.” It was a good start. I asked him the next question, “Why are books not free?” He looked shocked by the question, but soon calmed down and answered, “Fine, I’ll tell you. Now listen well, because I’m only going to say this once. The reason books are not free is because…” he said some words soon after that, but I was too entranced by this beautiful woman outside the window. Simply reading a book only made her seem more like a fairy or an angel than a human. After a while, she got up and I could finally see what kind book she was reading. Engineering.

Obviously, she didn’t like men and that broke my heart, but I came to that realization right as soon as the president finished his speech.

He asked, “So you have your article now. Do you have any questions?” Obviously not, but I had to say something, because while I had been distracted, he had pulled out charts, PowerPoints, some random smart-looking lady and a dog. I could only think of saying, “You have made a powerful enemy today,” and storming off. At this point, I had no choice but to write this article.

So, why are books not free?

Maybe because loudmouth politicians choose to increase their own wallets and purses over setting aside money for education.

Maybe because college students tend to drop classes early on in the semester, taking books with them.

Maybe because it takes money to make books.

Or maybe, just maybe, books are not free because books are not free.

In any case, I have decided to change my name and move to Uruguay. This is Estevan Mercury saying goodbye.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Ivan Cazares MANAGING EDITOR Marcus Camacho ONLINE EDITOR IN CHIEF Julianne Obregon ONLINE EDITORS Stephanie Garibay, Diego Olivares Bryce Ronquillo ART DIRECTOR Jade Inglada FRONT EDITOR Stephanie Guevara

OPINION EDITOR Christopher Jimenez NEWS EDITOR Rogelio Alvarez FEATURE EDITOR Diego Linares ARTS EDITOR Megan G. Razzetti SPORTS EDITOR Dan Gudino PHOTO EDITOR Eddie Garcia COPY EDITORS Kristen Garcia Elizabeth Toy CARTOONISTS Kristen Garcia, Alitzel Rodriguez STAFF WRITERS Gustavo Buenrostro, Johanna Calderon, Fernando Cervantes, Cesar Gutierrez, Bryan Hernandez, Daniela Jalteco, Christopher Jimenez, Javier Lopez, Patricia Medina, Gil Milanes, Jose Rojas, Julie Santiago STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Diego Linares, Julie Santiago Mayra S. Ventura ADVERTISING Stefanie Arocha

LETTER TO THE EDITOR The last two Headlines in the East Los Angeles College Student Newspaper caught my feminist and ethicist eyes, although a scathingreport about Professor Johnson; it left me interested in attending his class and write in defense of his right to free speech, as protected by the first amendment and to remind you learning happens through exposure to various other views and a maverick, black Bukawski incarnate is the textbook definition of other.

Yes, the reporter finds the Professor an annoying old hound dog besides an author, his extra credit work though is the norm in the academic world where instructors use their own publishings and sometimes share revenue with publishers of others. It is my first semester at ELAC and LATTC; on one campus my instructor’s book is the sole material in this open book midterm course bought directly through him or the bookstore, no notebooks on exams, a definite incentive for over $100 purchase; meanwhile the other instructor accepts homeworks only through the publisher's online portal, costing over $100 for access.

I agree, it looks like a mafia business tactic and it stinks! But it's of the real world to which this education is supposed to better equip students. These professors besides teaching, are mariachi band leaders, pastors, perverts, republicans, vegans the list of labels can keep going. When your puritan sensibility is offended it is your right to write about it in the paper, growing from your civil discourse while making the case for your views.

- Abiy Yacob, ELAC

Editor's note: This letter to the editor refers to the stories “Professor exchanges grades for likes, follows, reviews” and “Students say professor’s conduct was inappropriate” about Communication Studies adjunct professor R. Steven Johnson.

The articles focus on violations of school policies by Johnson.

www.ELACCampusNews.com

DISTRIBUTION Ivan Cazares ADVISERS Jean Stapleton Sylvia Rico-Sanchez 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 reserves the right to edit letters for grammatical errors or libelous content.

A n o ny m o u s l e t te r s w i l l n o t be printed. Writer s 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) 415-4910 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 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.

PRINTING BY NEWS PUBLISHERS PRESS

News

EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2016

3

ELAC succeeds accreditation Local theater campaigns

BY IVAN CAZARES Staff Writer East Los Angeles College was commended for being the cultural, social and educational hub of this community by Representatives of the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges on Thursday.

Representatives of ACCJC evaluated all nine colleges in the Los Angeles Community College District and the District Office.

ACCJC is one of several private educational associations that accredits colleges in the United States.

These associations must apply for approval from the United States Department of Education.

ACCJC will be evaluated in 2017 after being declared noncompliant by the United States Department of Education on Jan. 4. The department's decision was based

on a review conducted by the Dean of the School of Business National Advisory Commission for and Technology at San Diego Mesa College Danene Brown.

Institutional Quality and Integrity.

Luster said it is important to keep Accreditation is a way to ensure that institutions of higher education accreditation a peer review. She explained that she is provide their able to provide ELAC students with a quality education.

Accreditation is with feedback because of her experience Diplomas and a way to ensure running a similar certificates issued by unaccredited that institutions campus and could what she learns schools are not of high education take at a different campus recognized by most provide their to help with her own employers. school's evaluation.

F a c u l t y students with a ACCJC will review Accreditation Chair Barbara Dunsheath quality education. its representatives’ and President findings and publish a final report in late Marvin Martinez June. called the process a peer review.

T h e t e a m The team evaluating ELAC that evaluated ELAC was led gave nine commendations, three

by President of San Diego Mesa recommendations for improvements College Pam Luster, included and six recommendations to meet President of Santiago Canyon compliance.

College John Weispfenning and “We expected most of these

recommendations,” Dunsheath said.

She said the areas highlighted for improvement had already been recognized by administration.

The majority of recommendations focus on improving the school's financial planning and the way it analyzes Student Learning Outcomes.

“We are playing catch up on SLOs,” Dunsheath said in earlier stage of the accreditation process.

She explained that SLOs are hard to keep track of.

“The goal is to continually improve. We are trying get faculty to think more about what students are taking away from class,” Dunsheath said.

The other eight LACCD colleges received similar recommendations and the District Office received recommendations that focus on improving the District's process of evaluating personnel. It is the first time ACCJC accredits an entire district at the same time.

ELAC’s Accreditation Commendations 1. Creating a welcoming environment 2. Robust dialog between all constituent groups 3. Commitment to institutional effectiveness, especially review of all Program Reviews 4. Beautiful, student-centered facilities and grounds 5. Being the cultural, social and educational hub of this community 6. Outreach to K-12 students, especially at early levels 7. GO East LA program partnerships 8. Dedication to student life and remarkable student leaders 9. Creating lifelong student relationships as evidenced by the number of alumni working at ELAC

for fundraiser

BY ROGELIO ALVAREZ Staff Writer CASA 0101 Theater, located in Boyle Heights, is undergoing a fundraising campaign to raise $30,000 to help fund classes for youth, teens and adults from the surrounding communities.

The deadline to raise $30,000 is April 30.

Former East Los Angeles College student, Josefina Lopez founded the theater in 2000.

The non-profit organization uses money from grants and donations to fund an art education program, theatrical productions and art galleries to the surrounding communities.

The fundraising campaign began February 23. Casa 0101 staff members sent out individual emails to previous donors.

Some of the money goes toward funding CASA 0101’s free classes on acting, dance, playwriting, scriptwriting, voice, filmmaking and art for youth and teens.

The classes are taught by professionals with years of experience in theater arts and film.

Classes are held at Casa 0101 theater or at it’s smaller venue down the street, Little Casa.

“If we’re unable to meet the goal, we might have to charge for the classes,” Casa 0101 communications and outreach coordinator Guadalupe Arellanes said.

The small theater provides residents from Boyle Heights and the surrounding communities free writing and acting class all year long. Although students enrolled in the classes are not charged a single cent, donations are welcomed to help support Casa 0101 theater.

The money being raised for the campaign also goes toward funding

Resignation: ELAC football

ONLINE

coach resigns amid allegations “I told administration I did why I came here. He’s the one not want to know what happened w ho recruited me. I feel it with the old coach. We’re trying wasn’t fair about how this situation to move forward with a this team. w a s h a n d l e d b y t h e b o s s e s We’re all about getting better and (administration). He did so much for preparing these students in the the program,” freshman defensive classroom and on the field. We’re back Corie Railey said.

Many suggested his age and a ready to move on. Again, I don’t disappointing 2-8 record helped know what happened,” Godinez push Marty out. said.

“They (administration) didn’t like Players from the team responded him.

He was too young for them with their own side of Marty’s and (his) record didn’t help at all,” resignation. sophomore wide receiver Iheanyi Some said they will transfer, Obinna said. some said they would give Godinez Marty’s age was a chance, some were consistently brought not sure whether up by seven different they would stay and play for ELAC. “I was shocked players.

“Marty is 29. He’s One hundred when I heard too young. We have percent of over the Marty was p l a y ers who are two dozen players around the same age spoken to said he leaving. He’s as Marty.

I never had was forced out the reason why a coach that young because of pulling in my whole life. fire alarms.

I came here.

When I spoke to him, Pulling a fire alarm He’s the one who it never felt like a without any reason is recruited me.” p l a y e r t o c o a c h considered a felony conversation, (but) under California CORRIE RILEY instead, a player-tolaw. Penal Code ELAC football Defensive player conversation,” 148.4, Chapter 7 Back defensive lineman Other Offenses freshman Francis Against Public Bongwalanga said.

Justice, states: Marty also failed to connect with Willfully and maliciously sends, many players. gives, transmits, or sounds any “This new coach (Godinez) false alarm of fire, by means of understands us. His wife is Black. any fire alarm system or signal He gets us all because we’re all or by any other means or Mexican and Black here. Marty methods. understood the X’s and O’s of (b) Any person who willfully football, but didn’t get our adversity and maliciously sends, gives, with personal problems.

He would transmits, or sounds any false say push through and make alarm of fire, by means football number one.

That wasn’t of any fire alarm system or signal, or by any other means enough. It’s not all about football,” o r m e t h o d s , i s g u i l t y o f a Bongwalanga said.

Marty felt he did so much for felony and upon conviction is the ELAC football program but punishable by imprisonment conditions for football players were pursuant to subdivision not up to winning standards in his “I was shocked when I heard eyes.

Marty was leaving. He’s the reason

“This job was not about rebuilding.

It was building a program. The conditions for the players are poor.

We have a locker room that is older than I am and then some,” Marty said.

New lockers are currently being constructed at Weingart.

Many are uncertain of their future at ELAC, whether to transfer or not.

All but one of Marty’s assistants remains on the new coaching staff.

“It’s not what I’ve expected so far.

It’s definitely a more mature staff that has taken over, we have more people focused on the players, yet I’m 50-50 about my future here at ELAC. I might stay. I might leave to play somewhere else. I don’t know.

I’m waiting till later in the year to find out what’s up,” freshman wide receiver Trey Adkins said.

For those who are Marty’s recruits they feel they are left in limbo about the resignation. The uncertainty comes from what Marty sold recruits on.

A trio of transfers from Los Angeles Harbor College. Freshman Kyeree Wallace, Cemaj Douglas and Tyler Frey all transferred together from Harbor with the intentions to play under Marty.

Marty sold the players on playing at the a higher level and getting scholarships.

From the 2015-2106 season only five players so far have officially signed to a four-year college or university.

“It’s unfortunate that Marty is gone. I need to make sure to take care of my sophomore year in order to go play at a four-year,” Wallace said “I can’t afford to play around and mess up my last year. Its not funny at all for those of us who came here.

I might just transfer back to Harbor.

Marty genuinely cared about us.”

For more updates on t h i s d e v e l o p i n g s t o r y, v i s i t elaccampusnews.com

the adult classes held at the theater.

Adults can choose between beginning, intermediate and advanced acting, introduction to playwriting and singing classes.

Casa 0101 also has seasonal classes on puppetry, filmmaking, scriptwriting, dance, improv “For the fundraising campaign, we have a multi-pronged approach,” Casa 0101 Executive Director Emmanuel Deleage said. “We use our Facebook page to promote the campaign.”

Deleage says that the fundraising campaign can be very difficult.

CASA 0101 also has an upcoming comedy night fundraiser to help raise funds for the campaign.

The comedy night takes place tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. at Casa 0101 theater. Tickets are $25 dollars with proceeds going towards the fundraising campaign.

“We also have another fundraising event on April 16. The theme is the connection between neighborhood communities in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights,” Arellanes said.

The upcoming event will have live music from Japanese-American and Mexican artists. Local artists will also be having an art auction.

Author Ruben Funkahuatl Guevara will be reading from his short story, “Yuriko and Carlos.”

The money raised helps fund the different theatrical productions CASA 0101 hosts throughout the year. Many former and current ELAC students appeared and volunteered at CASA 0101.

“ELAC is a great partner. Casa benefits from the partnership with ELAC. There’s always been a supportive atmosphere from ELAC,” Deleage said.

Anyone interested in donating t o w a r d C a s a 0 1 0 1 T h e a t e r ’s fundraising campaign can donate on through their website casa0101.org

ON

YOUR SCHEDULE.

“The value and convenience is a big factor in why I chose Mount St. Mary’s Online.

I’ve had a great experience in all my classes.”

:: Log in and learn at your convenience

:: 6 start dates per year; 8-week terms

ON YOUR BUDGET.

—Adina, Pre-Health student

ON

TRACK FOR SUCCESS.

:: A personal Success Coach

works closely with you from orientation to graduation

:: Financial aid available

:: No text

:: One-on-one enrollment

book fees

and financial aid advising

Online classes and accredited two-year degree programs with easy transfer options.

ON

TARGET FOR TODAY’S WORKPLACE :: Nations only college to

report your mastery of the six Core Capabilities employers care about most on your transcript

ON THE RADAR

Mount St. Mary’s College is:

:: The No. 1 “Value-Added College” in the U.S. (Money Magazine, 2014)

:: A top-23 regional university (U.S. News & World Report, 2015)

“It’s not a crazy price that’s way out of reach for me. It’s something I can pay—it’s really workable.”

—Makayla, Liberal Arts student

www.msmconline.la.edu :: 310.728.2099

www.ELACCampusNews.com MSMC East LA College.indd

1

9/12/14 10:21 AM

4

Arts

EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2016

Reggae festival goes bilingual

BY MEGAN G. RAZZETTI Staff Writer The 6th annual Skanking Reggae Festival will feature a selection of international ska and reggae bands on March 20.

Originally held at the Pico Rivera Sports Arena, the festival will be hosted at the Shrine Auditorium for the first time this year.

Also for the first time, the festival will feature bands singing in English.

Headlining the festival is Reel Big Fish, who have been in the ska scene since the early ‘90s.

According to lead singer Aaron Barrett, Reel Big Fish is one of the bands that will be performing in English only. “It’s also really cool that this usually exclusively Spanish-language-speaking ska festival is having us,� Barrett said. “So we’ll be one of the odd bands there to mix things up,� Barrett said.

Barnett says music in the ska world has stayed the same in the 24 years Reel Big Fish has been performing, but the way people are discovering new music and bands has changed. “The Internet really changed everything, I think for the better, because when we first started, we were searching the record stores for any new ska bands to listen to,� Barrett said. “Now it’s so much easier to discover new music.�

Also playing the festival is Mexican ska band Panteon Rococo. The band is set to play the festival in preparation for a tour that is planned for later this year.

Established in 1995, Panteon Rococo has incorporated a blend of musical genres to maintain their creative self-expression.

According to lead singer Luis RomĂĄn Ibarra, who goes by the name Dr. Shenka, their influences range from punk to merengue and electronic music. “Fans can find all kinds of music in one band,â€? Shenka said. “There are lots of different styles for everyone to enjoy.â€?

The nine-piece band first came together during their high school days in Mexico City, starting with only seven members. Â They started as a group of guys who enjoyed music, says Shenka, and eventually it

grew into something more. By 1995, they finalized the lineup.

Their lyrics not only talk about love, but also incorporate political messages based on events happening around them. “Around this time, there was conflict between the Zapatistas and government,�

Shenka said. “We found a special place to come together and spread political awareness.�

However, according to Shenka, fans interpret the band’s lyrics differently. People can find something they’re interested in through the music and can relate to them.

Shenka also says that the shows are always full of energy, especially in places like Los Angeles where there are a lot of fans who have migrated from Mexico. “The festival is really special to us because it’s going to be with people who have influenced us,� said Shenka. “We have toured with Reel Big Fish and the Skatalites so it’s going to be a party.�

According to Barrett, the audience at ska shows in Latin America are very passionate about the music, and large ska shows tend to attract lively crowds. “They all sing extra loud and dance extra hard and things get really exciting.� Barrett said. “ But we’ve found that most ska fans all over the world love to dance and sing and go crazy.�

Another band that is set to play is Orange-County-based band 8 Kalacas.

Comprised of eight members, their music incorporates genres such as metal and funk into traditional ska sounds. “For them, they pretty much do what feels right,� says U.S. manager of 8 Kalacas Azel Hernandez. “They are open to all different genres.�

The festival is also giving the band a chance to perform with bands that they grew up listening to and admired. “These are the bands we idolized growing up,� Hernandez said. “The crossover of fans will give us a chance to play for new people too.�

The bilingual music festival will also include bands such as The Skatalites, Voo Doo Glow Skulls, El Gran Silencio and many more.

Singer shares new book and album

BY JOSE ROJAS Staff Writer

Lead singer and co-founder of the punk rock band, The Bags, Alice Bag, celebrated Women’s History Month last Thursday at East Los Angeles College by sharing fragments of her latest book “Pipe Bomb for the Soul.�

Alice Bag is one of the few women and Latinas in punk, and The Bags are one of the earliest L.A. punk rock bands that have heavy influence in modern hardcore rock.

Besides being a rock star, Bag is also an educator, author and a feminist.

Her book, “Pipe Bomb for the Soul� is a post-punk look at life in a post-revolutionary socialist society.

The book, published in 2015, is based on Bag’s diary during her trip to Nicaragua. It explores capitalist, racial and gender assumptions and proposes a new model for growth. “‘Pipe Bomb for The Soul’ is a self-published book that is based on a journal I kept when I visited Nicaragua in 1986. I was a teacher at the time, so I volunteered, helping with literacy in Esteli, Nicaragua. “I lived with a family there and did solidarity work. Back home, I was an elementary school teacher. I worked in Los Angeles at a school with a large Central American population so I also wanted to learn more about the culture. The experience really changed me. I think I went in pretty naive and had my eyes opened during my stay. ‘Pipe Bomb for The Soul’ chronicles that journey of self-discovery,� said Bag. Bag also mentioned she is very excited about her new and first solo album, scheduled to be released this summer. Bag’s new album is a collaboration with different

musicians from Los Angeles. “This is my first solo album and I’m thrilled to be recording it now at the age of 57. I’ve been playing and writing music for decades, but it never occurred to me to record a solo album until last year. Some friends of mine from the group FEA, who are on the Blackheart Records label, invited me to produce some songs on their record. “As I was getting ready to go into the studio with them, I started thinking about how much fun it would be to record my own songs.

One thing led to another and after I finished working with FEA, I started planning my solo album.

It was funded through Kickstarter and I’m happy to say that I received overwhelming support. I asked some of my favorite L.A. musicians to play on it. I’m very pleased with the results. It will be out this June.

Get it!� Bag said.

During her trip to Nicaragua, Bag experienced many things that changed her point of view about life. “Many things I saw impacted me,� said Bag. “There seemed to be a high level of interest in social and political philosophy across the nation. People lived their lives working and supporting the revolution. It was beautiful to watch.�

Growing up in East Los Angeles, Bag was influenced by multiple cultures, different types of music, food and religions. However, Bag, besides being a proud Chicana, is also proud of being a Latina. “I love my Mexican heritage, from learning about pre-Hispanic civilizations to learning what’s happening on the latest telenovela. I love that I can speak two languages, especially when the Latin roots of my native tongue can make other languages and scientific terms easier to understand. Need I mention the food?� Bag said.

Bag strongly believes that Women’s History Month should

serve as inspiration for all those young ladies who have dreams and goals they want to achieve.  “Never give up your dream, and ignore anyone who tells you to give it up. Our lives are powered by dreams. If we give them up, we will lack the incentive to keep going.

Work toward what you want, no matter how outlandish it may seem.

Slow and steady, you’ll get there!�

Bag said.

Bag also believes that there is still a lot to be done to eliminate the gap that still exists between men and women in society. “I absolutely believe a gap between males and females still exists. Women still face discrimination and are held to different standards. When we do get the job, we still make less than our male counterparts for the same positions. We have to deal with a glass ceiling that keeps the jobs at the very top, out of our reach, because most heads of state, CEOs and ultimately decision-makers, are still male. “Plus, we still live in a society where people can joke about rape, and violence against women is considered by some domestic, rather than a criminal issue. Yeah, there are still plenty of inequalities that need to be addressed.� Bag said.

After Bag performed, she took pictures with attendees of the event and also autographed copies of her book for her fans, which were very happy and excited to talk to her. “I think there couldn’t be a better way to celebrate Women’s History Month than with Alice, I love her.

She is my inspiration,� ELAC student Jocelyn Alvarez said. “Her lyrics are always full of inspiration. I read her book ‘Violence Girl: East L.A. Rage to Hollywood Stage: a Chicana Punk Story,’ and it has inspired (me) to always fight for what I want and to always be myself, no matter what,�

Bag’s fan Janet Mendez said.

Where earning a bachelor’s degree meets

“I want to transfer today!�

“With year-round enrollment and access to faculty Ζ NQHZ 1DWLRQDO ZDV IRU PH 0\ DGYLVRU WUDQVIHUUHG P\ FUHGLWV DQG QRZ I’m on my way.â€? ~ Michael, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology One Course Per Month • Financial Aid • Year-Round Enrollment

Los Angeles Campus 3DFLČ´F &RQFRXUVH 'ULYH Č?

k 1DWLRQDO 8QLYHUVLW\ 18 B

www.ELACCampusNews.com

$ 3ULYDWH 1RQSURȴW 8QLYHUVLW\ Serving the Public Good™

nu.edu/transfer

Arts

EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2015

PODEROSA—Members of the Fandangueras de Sur de Califia perform before a crowd at the art exhibit Eres Poderosa at Espacio 1839 on Friday.

5

CN/DIEGO LINARES

Artists celebrate empowerment

BY DORANY PINEDA

E

CN/DIEGO LINARES

REACHING HIGHER—Performer Xela de la X recites her hip-hop tracks at Espacio 1839 for the Eres Poderosa gallery on Friday.

Theater springs into comedy

BY JOHANNA CALDERON Staff Writer “Run for your Wife” presented by the East Los Angeles College Theater Art Department will open March 18.

“Run for your Wife” is the story of a selfish man and touches on the themes of betrayal and lies. The comedy is written by Ray Cooney, and co-directed by Tom Atha and Laura Rhi. The story revolves around a taxi driver named John Smith who is secretly married to two women.

The wives have two completely different personalities with Mary Smith, played by Charter High School of the Arts Multimedia

and Performing student, Genna Weinstein, who is the more reserved type and Barbara Smith, played by Alexis Tapia, who is the sexy and goofy, crazy wife.

Smith, played by Cesar Carbajal, lives a double life until a chain of events reveals his secret and the two wives end up finding out about each other.

“It's just a crazy thing of lies and just confusion throughout the whole play,” Tapia said.

The cast and crew's dedication to staying in character during the more comedic scenes is challenging at times,Weinstein said.

Tapia said she had to bite her cheek before bursting out laughing because one scene was so funny.

The play is well-developed and

Staff Writer

spacio 1839 hosted Eres Poderosa, a night exhibiting art and performances by local female creatives on Friday in Boyle Heights.

In honor of Women’s History Month, Espacio 1839 brought together female poets, musicians and artists from throughout Los Angeles who use art to empower and inspire their communities.

Former East Los Angeles College student, hip-hop artist and founder of the Ovarian Psycos Bicycle Brigade, Xela de la X, who goes by stage name Cihuatl Ce, was one of the performers that night.

Ce’s music is raw, unapologetic, angry and selfdescribed as “feminist revolutionary indigenous hip hop.”

The music focused on themes about social and environmental issues, feminism and political corruption, to name a few. When asked what makes her poderosa, the Spanish word for powerful, she said, “having my sisters and knowing that I’m not here alone.”

Chicana poet, playwright and activist Gloria Enedina Alvarez, whose poetry has been taught at ELAC by Chicano Studies Professor Ruben

Mendoza, also performed.

Mendoza started off the night with a spoken word performance about what being a woman means to her.

“Woman who does not back down/I am the woman of the divine/that examines and searches/I am saint woman,” she recited alongside accompanist violin player Learsi Marie Marting.

Other performances of the evening included East Side Cafe Jaraneras, an all-female musical group that brought together musicians from the San Fernando Valley, Santa Ana, El Sereno and others from East Los Angeles.

Art work from Crystal Galindo, Andi Xoch, Eddika, Alfie Numeric, Roxy Arana Art and Adriana Carranza covered the walls with painted uteri and vibrant portraits of women from all cultural backgrounds.

Eres Poderosa was organized by Myra Vasquez, who wanted to feature, exhibit and honor women’s work in hopes that it would empower women.

“Being a community member, a mother, a friend and a runner are what empower me,” Vasquez said.

For more information about Espacio 1839, visit www.facebook.com/Espacio1839.

they have been working hard to get the play ready for the last five weeks.

“The actors are much more dedicated,” Weinstein said. “We have five weeks and I’ve never been in a production that had less than a month to rehearse.

The rehearsals were a great experience for Weinstein to get to work alongside other students in the theater department.

“As a high school student, it was fun being around people who really cared and worked really hard,” Weinstein said.

The show opens on March 18 and will run through to March 26 in the P2-205 Upstairs Theater. Tickets are $10 general, $12 at the door and $8 for ASU members.

COURTESY OF JAKE ONE

Seattle producer drops new tape

BY DORANY PINEDA Staff Writer

CN/IVAN CAZARES

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT—Assistant stage manager Cesar Carbajal, center, helps

actors Genna Weinstein, Tim Valdovinos, right, and Frank Soria, left, recite their lines during rehearsal for “Run for your Wife” in the P2-205 Upstairs Theater on Monday.

Jake One’s new instrumental album entitled “#PrayerHandsEmoji” is full of eclectic sounds that merge samples of heavy bass, funky piano, horns and rich vocal orchestras.

The album is mix of songs that inspire a drive through the streets of Los Angeles with the beats turned up and the windows rolled down.

One of the most explosive tracks in “#PrayerHandsEmoji” titled “Lou” has a cosmic element to it.

The beat’s gradual increase in

www.ELACCampusNews.com

volume propels the gospel tracks through the deep bass and drum instrumentals and stops abruptly.

The track only continues on, after some bass riffs, with full force into a rhythmic chant. It is intense, frenzied and feels like a march of soldiers.

“Hunter” is also a great standout track for its amplified bass and synthesizer work.

It opens with several seconds of harmonious gospel samples and is soon taken over by a sultry, amplified bass that carries the song to a fading finale. Though one of the smoother and more repetitive songs,

the synthesizer that accompanies the heavy bass makes “Hunter” an airy and pleasurable experience.

The 24-track whole of “PrayerHandsEmoji” is sometimes strange, sometimes unexpected, but always interesting and groovy.

It reels the listener into an entrancing, funky experience, inviting them to rap over the beats as the music sways their skull into a continual head bob.

Jake One is a Seattle-based hip hop record producer who has provided instrumentals for famous rappers like Jay Z, Drake, Wales and Rick Ross.

6

SPORTS

EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE CAMPUS NEWS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2016

Baseball stumbles in extra innings ROGELIO ALVAREZ Staff Writer Baseball lost 3-4 to South Coast Conference rivals El Camino College last Saturday at home after a series of errors in extra innings.

“Other than our pitchers pitching well again like we’ve done all year, there’s zero positives. We struck out 16 times. We made four or five errors. There’s zero positives in that,” East Los Angeles College head coach James Hines said.

The Huskies are now 1-2 in conference play and 6-9 overall.

ELAC won the first game of the three-game series against El Camino but lost the remaining two games.

“It’s all experience. I’m a sophomore on the team so games like this just mature you. As a leader, you need to express to the freshmen that every fight is never over until the last out,” sophomore second baseman Johnny Salgado said.

El Camino had a 2-0 lead in the top of the fifth inning.

In the bottom of the fifth, ELAC sophomores shortstop Shun Tsunoda and first baseman Larson Anzaldo combined to hit a double and single, respectively.

ELAC freshman right fielder Alex Carrillo and designated hitter Travis Macfarland kept the momentum going and batted in Tsunoda and Anzaldo to tie the game at 2-2.

Carillo and Macfarland each had one RBI. Sophomore starting pitcher Seve Romo scored an RBI to again tie the game at 3-3 in the bottom of the eighth.

After reaching extra innings, the Huskies produced three errors in the last inning, giving El Camino freshman second baseman Kyle Henmi the chance to capitalize on the poor defending and record an RBI. “We put a lot of time into hitting and still can’t hit. We need to flip

Softball ELAC beat Long Beach City College March 9, 6-3.

Sophomore first baseman Ashley Day in extra innings hit a three-run home run to give ELAC a victory.

The Huskies lost its next home game against Pasadena City College, 5-1.

It’s game against Moorpark College was rained out and cancelled.

Softball lost its next game against Mt. San Antonio College 9-2.

The Huskies travel to Santa Barbara to compete in the Santa Barbara Softball Tournament from March 18 to 20.

Badminton The badminton team won a South Coast Conference matchup, 11-10, against El Camino College with a come from behind rally on Feb. 26.

Then continued its success against El Camino Compton Center 20-1 on March 4.

ELAC will play at Pasadena City College on Friday at 2 p.m.

Swimming and Diving

CN/ROGELIO ALVAREZ

STRIKE—Husky sophomore designated hitter Travis Macfarland (42) swings and misses the

ball in the bottom of the 5th inning. Macfarland grounded out to third base and recorded an RBI after sophomore shortstop Shun Tsunoda (14) touched home base. the script and put more time into playing defense. Guys can go to the park and hit on their own,” Hines said.

Romo pitched for seven innings and allowed five hits.

“We made a play or two in the outfield. Those are the things that

we expect to make but we also dropped a fly ball in right that we probably should’ve caught, which led to an unearned run,” Hines said.

Hines was not happy with his team’s performance and sounded upset while talking to his team after the game.

The Huskies’ losing streak continued last night after losing to Los Angeles Harbor College, 7-1.

ELAC can break its losing streak when it host Harbor tomorrow at 6 p.m. and concludes the three-game series at Harbor on Saturday at noon

YOUR MOMENT

TO GROW IN UNEXPECTED WAYS Plant the seeds of social justice, respect for diversity, and individualism in the classroom. Master new approaches in curriculum and development theories at Pacific Oaks’ SCHOOL OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND SCHOOL OF EDUCATION.

Learn more at startpacificoaks.com

www.ELACCampusNews.com

The Swim & Dive team outscored four South Coast Conference rivals at the 2016 Chaffey College Invitational at Riverside City College on March 11-12.

SCC teams ELAC defeated included Chaffey College (7th place/237.5 points), Rio Hondo College (8th place/177) El Camino College (9th place/125) and LA Trade Tech (11th place).

ELAC’s next meet will take place Friday at home at 1 p.m. It will be a three-way meet against Rio Hondo College and Mount San Antonio College.