Collegian Times: Apocalypse

Election 2012 A Right Turn For Youth?

Apocalypse: Survive the End of Times

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Letter from the Editor The arrival of 2012 is being felt like an earthquake across Los Angeles City College. The world speeds up around us as the Mayan calendar predicts the end of time. Students meanwhile, take strides toward their future.

With the buzz of the New Year, change is upon us, not the end.

We see the students more active than ever before, marching through the halls of City College with intent to make education free for everyone.

Students of the LACC Theatre Academy are winning national recognition as the future stars of stage and screen. Down in the darkroom, photographers—the visionaries—are wondering if their 200-year-old form of art can survive the digital age.

In the Child Development Center, students who are also parents are teaching their kids about how important it is to keep the earth clean. Upstairs at the Collegian Offices, so many different sides of student life this year are screaming for attention.

We are working every day to expose the truth about every issue that crosses the campus. If it means something to you, it means something to us. Now, I have a few questions for you.

What if the world does end on 12.12.12? What would be your last drink?

What would be your choice for a last meal?

Where does a student get a kick-ass outfit to wear to that fabulous end of the world brouhaha?

These are some of the questions answered in the pages of this magazine. Every page is another step in the complicated end-ofthe-world hokey pokey. We at the Collegian Times want to make sure we send you off with a bang of hard-hitting news, fun Cosmoesque surveys, in-depth features and fun, colorful fashion!

The end of the world may be upon us, but no one can deny us our future. Are you ready?

Matthew Mullins Editor-in-Chief

Collegian Times

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Contents FEATURES 6

E L E C T I O N : M a k i n g t h e R i g h t Tu r n

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DA R K RO O M : P h o t o g r a p h e r s S t i l l D o i t i n t h e D a r k

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L AC C E L E C T R O N AU T S : J o l t P o w e r e d C a r s C o m e t o C i t y

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S PA C E S H U T T L E : E n d e a v o u r C o m e s t o C a l i f o r n i a

REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK: Lessons from Tiananmen Square

By John Montano

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R E P O R T E R ’ S N O T E B O O K : B r y c e C a n y o n ’s A m p h i t h e a t e r R e a d y f o r S h o w B y S v e t l a n a Yu r a s h

Collegian Times

Illustration By Jose Tobar

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SURVIVAL MAPS 18

BEST OF MAP: Discover the “Best of” everything at or near LACC

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A P O C A LY P S E M A P : S o c i e t y ’s G o n e H a y w i r e ! N a v i g a t e t h e Apocalypse Here Editor-in-Chief

APOCALYPSE SPECIAL

Matthew Mullins Managing Editor Richard Martinez

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BEGINNING OF THE END

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L A S T D R I N K : To a s t t h e E n d o f t h e W o r l d a t T h e F a c u l t y

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DRINK GUIDE: One More for the Road

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L A S T M E A L : R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s f o r Yo u r L a s t S u p p e r

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LAST SONG: Music to Go Out to

Entertainment Editor

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A P O C A LY P S E FA S H I O N : T h e E n d o f F a s h i o n M i s t a k e s

Copy Editors

Art Director Josué Hernandez Photo Editors Claudia Alvarado Inae Bloom Lauren Arevalo Layla Fernandez Denise Barrett

GUEST COLUMNISTS

Graphic Designers

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GUEST COLUMNS: Standing Against Hypocrisy and Cynicism

By Sam Eisenstein

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Ve t e r a n s L o s e B e n e f i t s A m i d B u d g e t C u t s

By Andrew McGiver n

Luis Rivas Gerard Cole Reporters Anna Kamalyan John Montano Svetlana Yurash Emanuel Bergmann

SCHOOL FEATURES 36 37

Régine Simmonds Naomi Johnson

EOP&S: Fewer Students Receive Aid as Program Enrollment Drops

By Eun Ju Lee

Kenneth Jara

CELEBRITY REHAB: Drugs, Rock ‘n’ Roll and City College

By Luis Rivas

Eun Ju Lee

Byron Umana Bermudez David Tapia Josefina Nuñez Photographers

STUDENT INTEREST & LIFESTYLE 40

P O E T RY

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M AT I N G 1 0 1

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SEX COLUMN

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HOROSCOPES

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FINALS SCHEDULE

Seung Hyun Choi Patrick Chong Illustrators Jose Tobar Billy Monroe David Stamp Multimedia Dave Martin Adviser Rhonda Guess

Cover illustration depicts the presidential candidates vying for the White House in 2012,

by Jose Tobar. Concept by Gegham Khekoyan.

The college magazine is published as a learning experience, offered under the college journalism instructional program. The editorial and advertising materials published herein, including any opinions expressed are the responsibility of the student staff.

Under appropriate state and federal court decisions, these materials are free from prior restraint by virtue of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Accordingly, materials published herein, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the Los Angeles Community College District, Los Angeles City College, or any officer or employee thereof. © 2012 Collegian. No material may be reprinted without the express written permission of the Collegian.

Collegian Times

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FEATURE

Will the Young Make a Right Turn in November?

By Denise Barrett

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n 2008, President Barack Obama rocked the youth vote and handily won the election with students and young adults under 34. That year, 66 percent of that age demographic voted Democrat.

The road to the youth vote for the president may not be as obvious as it was

What have you done for me lately? Obama’s policies and the youth:

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Who do you “like”?

In an attempt to capitalize on the apparent slip, Romney is taking a page from the president’s playbook, using online communities like Facebook to engage the younger audience. The GOP has even established the Social Victory Center, an app and hub of all-things Republican Web 2.0. The message? Being financially successful himself, Romney may just have what it takes to create positive financial change for the county, including those new to the job market.

Barack Obama’s election was revolutionary in many ways. Among them was his use of social media. While roughly the same percentage of youth came out

to vote in 2008, and while the young generally tend to vote left, the election was astonishing for the way the election captured the youth vote –– the web.

Obama reached the tech-savvy culture with online platforms like Twitter and Facebook, digital ads and online fundraising campaigns. Clean, well-designed websites and QR codes made it easy to immediately connect with the latest information, making transparency as much of an issue as the candidate himself.

With the GOP’s foray into this world, pouring millions into online campaigns to catch up with Obama, social media will likely become even more of a battleground for capturing voters’ attention.

Although the gains have been modest— the Romney campaign has just under two million Facebook “likes” to Obama’s 26.5 million, for example—both candidates know there is a lot of time between now and November. They also know the web may not be enough. After all, nothing can replace the handshaking and baby kissing of traditional campaign strategy.

Recognizing that, President Obama is taking no chances. He has already made some high-profile visits to colleges and universities like University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and University of Colorado, using his proposed plan for student loan reform as one reason why he is the candidate to vote for in November.

And Romney is continuing to make the rounds, driving home his case as the reformed Wall Street alternative to an inexperienced Main Street man as he nails down his nomination. Only time will tell which road the youth will take.

Illustrations By Jose Tobar

»» Health care reform extended health insurance coverage for dependents on their parents’ plans up to age 26 »» Proposed student loan policies to consolidate loans with lower interests rates, cap repayment rates at 10 percent of their disposable income, and loan forgiveness after 20 years »» Expanded Pell Grant program with $40 billion investment »» Made $2 billion investment for community colleges over four years to be used on career development programs »» Pledged $2.55 billion in financial support for historically black colleges and minority-serving institutions

in 2008. Increasingly, many students and other young adults are asking what he brings to the table this time?

In the last general election, it was the promise of hope and change: relatively broad concepts that resonated with youth and many others after eight years of tough love, wild bravado and drawn out divisive wars. However, with a troubling economy seeing more than half of recent graduates out of work or underemployed, and with student loan debts averaging $23,000, this voting block may be considering their options.

The 2008 election saw Obama having a 34-point lead over the Republican candidate among voters younger than 30. According to a recent poll by Harvard University’s Institute of Politics, Obama leads assumed Republican nominee Mitt Romney by only 12 points among those 18-24, and 23 points among those 25-29.

Gay Rights

Where They Stand: Based on Sacramento Bee’s Obama vs. Romney: Where they Stand on 12 Issues

Energy and Environment

Obama

Economy »» High unemployment, a deep recession and gradual recovery »» $800 billion stimulus plan »» Wall Street and auto industry bailouts »» Proposes tax breaks for U.S. manufacturers producing domestically or repatriating jobs from abroad, and tax penalties for U.S. companies outsourcing jobs »» Lower taxes, less regulation, balanced budget, more trade deals to spur growth »» Replace jobless benefits with unemployment savings accounts »» Proposes repeal of financial-industry regulations and accounting regulation

Education »» Approves waivers freeing states from certain requirements of the No Child Left Behind law »» “Race to the Top” competition has rewarded states with billions of dollars for pursuing education policies Obama supports »» Supported No Child Left Behind »» Supports aspects of Obama’s “Race to the Top” competition, but does not support federal government’s expanded involvement in education

»» Favors constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage

»» Ordered moratorium on deep-water drilling »» Allowed more oil and gas drilling »» Instituted increases in fuel economy standards »» Achieved first regulations on heat-trapping gases blamed for global warming »» Funded green energy »» Supports nuclear power as a clean source »» Supports opening the Atlantic and Pacific outer continental shelves, Western lands, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and offshore Alaska to drilling »» Supports quicker access to drilling permits for coal, natural gas and nuclear energy development »» Does not support green power as a viable energy course and believes the causes of climate change are unknown

Romney

»» Supports the rights of gay couples to marry »» Opposes constitutional amendment to ban it »» Repealed the military ban on openly gay service members

Taxes »» Proposes higher taxes on the wealthy, 30 percent of their income at minimum »» Extends Bush-era tax cuts for those making under $200,000, or $250,000 for couples »» Provides for tax on highest-value health insurance plans with health care law. »» Reduce all tax rates by 20 percent »» Limit deductions, credits and exemptions for the wealthiest »» Eliminate capital gains tax for families making below $200,000 and cut corporate tax to 25 percent from 35 percent

Health Care »» Universal coverage »» Insurers will be banned from denying coverage to people with pre-existing illness, tax credits will subsidize premiums, people without work-based insurance will have access to new markets, small business gets help for offering insurance and Medicaid will expand »» Wants to repeal the law modeled after his universal health care achievement in Massachusetts because he says states, not Washington, should drive policy on the uninsured »» Proposes protections against losing coverage if they get sick, leave their job or need another policy »» Favors individual tax-advantaged medical savings accounts

Immigration »» Proposed legislation to create created a path to citizenship for young illegal immigrants enrolled in college or enlisted in the armed forces »» Favors U.S.-Mexico border fence, opposes education benefits to illegal immigrants »» Opposes offering legal status to illegal immigrants who attend college, but would do so for those who serve in the armed forces »» Proposes an immigration-status verification system for employers

Collegian Times

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Feature

Photographers Still do it in the Dark

By Matthew Mullins

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tells students to repeat the process. Any mistake in processing their film could require a re-shoot. Many hours and 8x10 pieces of photo paper later, a photography student might have a print worthy of a desirable letter grade.

In November 2011, professor Okamura changed her syllabus. Kodak, a world famous 127-year-old photographic film company, hit hard times after some poor business decisions, including a botched deal with Hewlett-Packard. It cost them around $25 million. Kodak recently filed for Chapter 11 and lost its CEO, Antonio Pérez.

In October 2011, they discontinued their line of KODAK PROFESSIONAL PLUS-X 125 Film, a medium-speed, continuous-tone, panchromatic film used commonly in analog photography classes. Kodak had begun to show signs of weakness in an ever-changing industry.

Sad as it was, it did not stop the darkroom from running.

Other companies such as Ilford have continued producing products for the darkroom, making the slow death of Kodak a non-issue. According to Eric Joseph of Freestyle Photographic Supplies, film photography will continue without Kodak because the art itself is still desired

within a growing market, fueled mostly by community colleges and universities that have film photography programs with active darkrooms.

City College is no different; many students are beginning to flourish as noteworthy professional photographers. A recent exhibit at Freestyle Photo called “Emerging 7” included the work of LACC student photographer, Elizabeth Delgado.

Her work is meticulous, sharp and beautiful. She explained the importance of beginning with film as a photographer.

“You see the picture come to life,” Delgado says. ”You are there developing it.

You watch the image you worked so hard on appear on paper. It’s kind of like magic.

You need to start at the beginning to develop your skills. It’s better because it’s not so fast as a digital SLR. It makes you think about what you shoot. [Shooting on] film is not cheap but definitely worth it.”

This semester, scores of students are focused on digital photography, but for some, their hearts pine for the darkroom.

There is a shared connection with other students in the darkroom that is more intriguing and gratifying than staring at a screen in a computer lab.

The darkroom creates a sense of community. Photographers make friends

From Left to right Photos By: Mirella Zepeda and Elizabeth Delgado

n the basement of the Chemistry Building at City College, students have been practicing an art almost 200 years old. It is a time consuming practice done with love, devotion and pure dedication.

It yields many varied results that can be viewed from all perspectives. These visionaries spend hours trying to perfect the art. It seems like magic as they do it, always in the dark.

The art of photography in its original analog form is a common interest among the students at City College. It is so popular that students scramble to get into the photo classes before they fill up. Many are in for a surprise when they realize how much work it is, but find that it is a discipline that is very rewarding and an important starting point for any serious photographer.

Students spend many hours each semester immersed in the details of how to develop and process film in a completely dark room. They learn to make a perfect photographic print and how to put together a perfect composition for all to admire and enjoy in the light.

It is no easy task.

Photography professor Linda Okamura

faster while working side by side in the darkroom, faster than anywhere else on campus. Some of those friends become like brothers and sisters. Students learn and grow together as artists in a dark personal bubble.

“The interest in historical process is greater than it’s ever been. One of the reasons analog photography is still continuing, is that digital photography is sterile,” Joseph says. “People love the environment of the darkroom. It’s their little temple. They enjoy creating things that are hands on. There’s a camaraderie that comes with it that is missing in a digital lab.”

With the digital lab process, the fun is still there, but slightly muted in some way. All the artists are engrossed in their personal image. The camaraderie is lost. It’s only social if you are out in the city shooting pictures with other digital photographers. If you work alone, you may begin to feel the isolation that is so often present in the world of digital.

Digital adds different values in the process and allows instant gratification for each photo, viewable immediately on the small LED screen, quite a contrast to the four-hour process for one picture in analog photography.

From top to bottom Photos By: Moses Park, Randi Bartisak and James Storm

Experience in the darkroom creates a broader understanding of the technical aspects of creating a perfect photo, digital or not.

“I believe and I think that a lot of my contemporaries in the world of photo education today, believe that when students study traditional analog photography with film and darkroom practices, it’s only going to make them stronger when it comes to the competency that they will have working as professional photographers,” says professor Daniel Marlos, Media Arts Chair at City College .

Experience in the darkroom creates a broader understanding of the technical aspects of creating a perfect photo, digital or not. The idea of combining the art of digital and film is a reminder that both arts are not mutually exclusive. They work together in different ways to create a harmonious field of artistic expression through different mediums.

As a result, the digital age has been good to the field of photography and has caused many people to take interest. Most people rely on technologies that are easy to use and at their fingertips at any given moment.

Everyone has a computer and camera in their pocket in the guise of a cellphone.

Companies like Facebook and Twitter teamed up with Instagram and Hipstamatic, popular cellphone applications that make it easy to create instant photographic replicas of popular old style cameras, such as the Holga used in the early 1980s.

“Everyone has been trying to copy the sensitivity and unique image quality of the Holga camera … ” Joseph says.

These commonly used phone applications have created an interest in the actual film Holgas, available at Freestyle Photo and many other camera shops across town.

Joseph says the company he works for carries the Holga in an attempt to keep film alive. “Anyone who buys that camera and uses it is shooting a roll of film.

The more film that is sold, the more film we can purchase from manufacturers to keep analog photography alive.”

Walking through the photo-lined hall of Freestyle Photo, the work of many student photographers comes into focus.

A statue of a mother and daughter seems to come to life, titled Blind Love by Ethan Edward. A few steps further a woman boxer seems ready for her next round, a sexy, sleek creation by Mirella Zepeda.

These photographers spent hours in the darkroom perfecting each image. They use many tools to slowly produce just one perfect print. After tirelessly working, they are gratified to know anyone can dive into the worlds they create, always there for anyone to enjoy and experience.

Society continues to become more involved and interested in digital photography, while silently throwing a rope to its analog predecessor. Photography is an art that shows no signs of slowing down.

In an age where things are expected

to happen quickly, the darkroom’s amber light is still glowing bright. People desire the slower process not only as a form of expression, but as a way to stop the constant motion of the world around them. In the darkroom, anyone can create something that they can call theirs from start to finish. Photographers will still be doing it in the dark for years to come.

Collegian Times

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Feature

Jolt Powered Cars As gas prices flirt with the $5 per gallon mark, some drivers are getting a kick out of a new way to save money on gasoline.

Enter the EV, which is short for electric vehicle, charging its way across the nation.

By Anna Kamalyan

The batteries are located in the trunk of the car. In order to travel 100 miles, the car needs to be charged four hours.

The side view of the new electric, 1-series, BMW coupe

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rideshare coordinator.

“Yes, I support electrical cars and it would be nice to have the stations here on campus and districtwide,” Tylecek said.

Many students say they would rather purchase an all-electric vehicle as opposed to a car that runs on fuel. A perceived benefit of electric cars is that they don’t use oil. Although they emit fewer pollutants, they are not eliminating them all.

“Now, we generate our electricity ... from nuclear fuel, solar, coal and natural

“I feel like I’m a pioneer and that’s the most exciting thing about this.”

–Dean Allison Jones

gas,” Knittel said. “The most common fuel used in the U.S. for electricity is still coal. So that means that electric vehicles don’t really get rid of all the emissions that you might think they do. We burn the coal to generate electricity and coal emits greenhouse gases and also what are called criteria pollutants. In principle, at least, electric vehicles can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move criteria pollutant emissions from the roads to where the power plants are.”

Dean of Academic Affairs at City

College, Allison Jones is no stranger to “going green” or driving electric vehicles.

She owns a Prius--which is a hybrid car--and she recently took delivery on a brand new BMW that runs on 100 percent electricity.

Jones was one of 700 candidates who received a futuristic, plug-in rechargeable, BMW 1-series.

“My husband has a BMW, and in the mail, addressed to him, came a flyer saying we have a new program for electric cars, and if you’re interested you can download an app on your iPhone or your Android and see if you are a good candidate,” Jones said.

“So, I did, I downloaded the app and I did a virtual test over a two week period to see if I was a viable candidate.”

Jones is now behind the wheel of an electric BMW 1-series, two-door coupe.

The physical appearance of the car is not the only advantage. The new BMW allows her to the drive in the fast lane, literally.

She is looking forward to receiving an High Occupancy Vehicle sticker.

BMW dubbed test drivers like Jones “electronauts.” 700 of them are located throughout the nation.

“It’s a 1-series, I never knew they existed,” Jones said. “And what’s different about it is normally, when cars are used, companies develop a new prototype, but this one, they decided to take an existing model and just dump everything in it.”

This program allows selected

Photos courtesy of BMW

ittle by little, the classic gas tank is making room for rechargeable batteries. Cars have evolved to a point where gasoline is no longer the only fuel option. Companies are developing environmentally friendly cars that are powered by electricity.

Batteries were once the choice only for remote controls, radios, toys, clocks and other small consumer products.

Now, batteries are used as a source of powering transportation.

BMW, Chevrolet Electric, American Honda Motor Co. and Myers Motors are a few companies that carry electric cars.

Some are affordable while others are high end.

“Tesla offers an all electric vehicle, Fisker, Nissan leases, GM-Volt, but it’s not all electric it has a gas tank, as well,” said Christopher R. Knittel, professor of applied economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.).

Even though electric cars are new and all the rage, Knittel says they will not dominate the road anytime soon. However, they may be powering their way to the Los Angeles City College Quad in the near future.

LACC will educate students about the eco-friendly aspects of electric cars at the Rideshare Fair on Oct. 3. The fair will showcase electric vehicles, according to Vera Tylecek, administrative aid and

consumers to test the car and give feedback before it is public for everyone to buy.

“The test is actually for us to get information from consumers on how the car is acting,” said Paul Liboon, a new car client advisor at Crevier BMW in Santa Ana, California. “[The car] is only for lease, it’s not for sale as a purchase. Basically, you are testing the car, but you are paying us a monthly payment so we get feedback and information from you as a consumer.

That just helps the product become more reliable and dependable.”

This BMW is not available to non-electronauts at the moment. The lease cost of $499 per month might be a little too steep for some students, but some seem intrigued. They say they recognize the benefits of electric cars.

“I, personally, would buy an electric BMW because of the fuel that I would save and it would be for a good cause,” said Argo Hymen, a student at LACC. Jones still owns a 2005 Prius which is the second generation. She gave her first Prius to her daughter. There have been 1.6 million hybrids like the Toyota Prius sold within the past six years, according to a report released by the Department of Energy.

The downfall of the BMW is the limited range and the lengthy 4-hour charging period, according to Dean Jones.

“There are things I like about both of them,” Jones said. “I love the BMW, but its limitation is it only goes 100 miles and that’s why the other companies are developing the hybrids, because they really aren’t practical unless you’re just staying within a certain radius around home. The Prius is a gas sipper, doesn’t use a lot. You don’t have to worry about the distance you’re going and it’s got a lot of really good features.”

There are students at City College who are planning to buy electric cars as opposed to cars that run on gas.

“If any electrical car were cheaper, I

Dean Allison Jones recently made the move from one green car to another. She parked her Toyota Prius and moved on to the BMW 1-series electric vehicle.

think anyone would want to buy [it] rather than wasting money on gas,” said Amaris Hernandez, a radiology technology major at LACC. “On top of that, we don’t have as many fossil fuels for gas. We don’t even have enough actual oil rigs to support half of the United States for gas. I mean, I would think more people should buy electrical cars.”

The number of wells or platforms are not important, according to Knittle, an expert at MIT, who says what really matters is the global supply of oil relative to global demand. He also says electric cars are not going to have an influence on global oil prices anytime soon.

“Fossil fuel oil prices are obviously high right now and what’s important to understand with oil markets is that it’s a global market,” Knittel said. “Given the high prices, the straightforward suggestion is that demand is growing and that’s increasing prices for oil and obviously for gasoline.”

Newly-minted electronaut Jones does not have to worry about gas prices escalating. She is more interested in

finding charging stations.

“I can get to work and back and do some side driving,” she said. “I understand there’s a move to try and get a couple of charging stations on campus. If that happens then I’ll have much greater range.”

Jones said she reduced her footprint about 50 percent. This car is not the only way she stays environmentally friendly.

“I try to use reusable bags when I shop now, but sometimes I forget, I go in the store, but I’m trying to do that more,” Jones said. “I try and minimize the use of electricity as much as possible, except for the car, I mean, that is using it. I just recently bought a coffee cup that’s reusable and I have larger plastic cups that I can reuse so that I don’t add to the landfill.”

Although most students who spoke with the Collegian Times prefer electric cars, there are some who prefer other options.

“I’d rather use my bike than buy any car and pay for gas, because you get the exercise and you save money throughout the long run,” said Jasmine Grajeda, a student at LACC. “You just got to watch out for cars not hitting you.”

Jones says that she still passes by gas stations and glances at the prices, then the electronaut realizes that she does not need gas for the BMW. “I’ll feel better when I get my license plates and I get the HOV sticker and I’m on the lane, then I’ll feel really great and I’ll be thankful,” she said. “I’m in that car because that’s the main point of why I started this search [which] was to get back on the HOV lane.”

Jones says she loves being part of innovative technology.

“I feel like I’m a pioneer and that’s the most exciting thing about this,” she said.

“So the fact that I’ve got to worry about how far I drive, that’s immaterial really, because it’s just a very exciting project.”

The classic gas tank has been replaced with rechargeable batteries.

Collegian Times 11

Feature “I really feel that the Endeavour will add to the many sites to see already here in California. I think it’s a really thing cool that we will be able to see something in person that we’ve always seen on television all while learning.”

–Nazila Mirzadjahromi

Endeavour Comes to California

LACC Biology Major

The space shuttle Endeavour is seen on launch pad 39a after the rollback of the Rotating Service Structure (RSS), May 15, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla.

By Naomi L. Johnson

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inexpensive for the construction of a space shuttle. Endeavour will be permanently displayed at the California Science Center (CSC), and people visiting the museum will be able to view the exhibit. There is no plan to charge an admission fee.

California has been a part of the ongoing research NASA engages in for

quite some time. NASA began operations Oct. 1, 1958. The California Institute of Technology manages the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, one of the top three of 10 centers located around the country where NASA operates.

NASA officials decided to give the Space Shuttle Endeavour to the CSC. It is

Photos Courtesy of NASA/Bill Ingalls

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umble beginnings: The Endeavour Space Shuttle was constructed using leftover parts from space shuttles Discovery and Atlantis. Construction for Endeavour cost $1.7 billion according to NASA officials. This is considered

one of four institutions selected to receive a Space Shuttle orbiter for permanent display.

“We believe that we best met NASA’s criteria,” said Kristina Kurasz, a CSC Communications Associate. “We are dedicated to science learning and education and have an international reputation for high quality exhibits ... California has a strong historic connection to the shuttles, as all of the orbiters were built in Southern California.”

The LACC Chair of Physics and Engineering Dr. Jayesh Bhakta has followed the space shuttle program since the age of 10. He says he remembers living in England and coming home from school to watch the first launch of Space Shuttle Columbia on television in 1991. He says it was then he realized the people of America had made a great achievement and there was no limit to the potential power of human beings.

“I was ecstatic when the shuttle successfully took off after the countdown and the experience greatly strengthened my interest in science and engineering,” Bhakta said. “... It was definitely a very inspiring moment. For the last 30 years the space shuttle program has represented the dreams of humanity while we struggled to live peacefully with each other on the Earth below. I am very excited that the Space Shuttle Endeavour will be coming to our city and I look forward to spending many afternoons with my young son at the exhibit and getting a little bit more inspired each time.”

Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-134) makes its final landing at the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) at Kennedy Space Center, Wednesday, June 1, 2011, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Endeavour, after completing a 16-day mission to outfit the International Space Station, spent 299 days in space and traveled more than 122.8 million miles during its 25 flights. It launched on its first mission on May 7, 1992.

The space shuttle has traveled 122,883,151 miles since 1992. It is the baby of the shuttle family and will make its last touchdown at the California Science Center later this year.

City College astronomy professor Dean Arvidson at says Endeavour coming to California is a wonderful opportunity for astronomy students and everyone in Los Angeles to learn about the space shuttle program, which is 30 years old.

“From putting the Hubble Space Telescope in orbit to carrying astronauts to and from the International Space Station, the space shuttle program led to a very rich history of discoveries, successes and a few horrific disasters,” Arvidson said. “LACC astronomy students in particular will have the chance to see a space shuttle up close, find out what’s involved in manned space flight and perhaps be inspired to carry those successes a few steps further in some way, not to mention they might earn extra credit for visiting the Endeavour.”

The arrival of Endeavour in California can mean a lot of things. It can generate revenue for Los Angeles. It is also an opportunity for Californians to be in the presence of an historical object that has orbited the Earth 4,671 times and has traveled a total of 299 days. It could also provide inspiration to many astronomers, future astronauts, students and children.

Space shuttle Endeavour is seen on launch pad 39a at night following a 14 day mission.

Collegian Times 13

Reporter’s Notebook

Lessons from Tiananmen Square

By John Montano

Light posts cover parts of the landscape in China. With cameras at every angle and multiple sets of fluorescent lights and listening devices, everything is seen and heard.

Minutes before being taken away by the police, a man sits outside Tiananmen Square, yelling out claims of being tortured years ago.

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iPhone and this was the case for many.

For Americans, most things made in China are cheaper, but for the Chinese, most of the products made there are shipped out and then considered “imported” if brought back into the country.

This has been happening for years. It should come as no surprise to the Chinese government that the people have grown reluctant to continue working.

It was my second day in China when my eyes were opened to an entirely new issue--human rights. As I walked along the outskirts of Tiananmen Square, I saw a man sitting on the ground singing. Half of his body was missing. The other half was scarred with thick, swollen burns. He rested himself against an old paint bucket, unable to stand or even fully sit, singing with a cup in front of him trying to earn a little change. After his song was finished, he began to speak loudly and aggressively.

He claimed to have been arrested, tortured and burned alive by the Chinese government for speaking out against Deng Xiaoping, a dictator from the late 1970s through 1989. Almost as soon as he started speaking, six men in uniform arrived. They picked him up by the arms and carried him to a police van. People walked by without

even turning their heads.

Once they were gone, I stood there shocked, and I wondered how the police were able to get there so quickly and if someone had actually called the police on this man. Then, I noticed the cameras. In and around Tiananmen Square, every few yards is a post with six cameras and four boxes used as listening devices.

I met up with some friends living in Beijing and seven of their friends who were born and raised there. They explained to me that in Tiananmen Square you could be prosecuted for speaking out against the government. You could be thrown in jail.

“And that may not even be the worst of it,” said Mei Liang, a student in Beijing.

People are apprehended at Tiananmen Square all the time for talking about the massacre in 1989. Even tour guides are forbidden from telling tourists while on the grounds.

It’s not as if I didn’t know the way the government worked in China, it’s just that I had not fully realized the impact not having certain rights has on people.

There is no First Amendment. There is no free speech. Seeing authorities pick up a wounded, scarred man by his arms, and taking him away with no explanation really

Photos By John Montano

As I stepped out of the plane and took my first step on Chinese soil, I had no way of knowing what was in store or the impact the trip would have on me. I had one objective: Research and report on the labor protests. I had done plenty of research on China, its history and the current protest. I knew I would complete what I came there to do. What I didn’t know was that I would come across an even bigger issue--human rights.

Recently, many Chinese citizens, particularly those from Beijing and Shanghai have begun to protest labor. They work 12-hour days in factories anywhere from five to seven days a week making products like iPhones, cars, electronics and clothing.

Though they spend most of their day making these things, they are denied the ability to purchase and use the items for themselves. iPhones for instance, are made in China piece by piece and are assembled, boxed and immediately shipped out of the country to be distributed by Apple. If a Chinese citizen would like to purchase an iPhone, they will have to order one from the U.S., as well as pay an import fee. Jean Zheng, a young woman I was introduced to in Shanghai, paid almost $2,000 for her

This woman is one of the few remaining workers in a Shanghai silk factory where more than half of the stations are empty.

opened my eyes to the darker side of the country I was visiting.

When asking questions geared toward rights as opposed to labor, it came as no surprise that people did not want to speak to me. The only information I was able to get was from the friends I had been introduced to after arriving. They told me stories of things they had seen, corruption, people disappearing, and more interestingly, a movement of rebellion among the youth. The younger generation of Chinese has had more exposure to a different way of life and different values than the generations before. Ultimately, they’ve been able to form their own beliefs, which isn’t easy when given limited information.

The Chinese government is even in control of most major websites. At first this seemed implausible, so I looked it up myself. Sure enough, when I looked up Dec. 21, 1989 online, the massacre was not described. In fact, I could not find one negative thing written about China at all.

The explanation that was offered to me was that websites are controlled by certain people and the government is able to influence what that site publishes.

Still, the internet is vast and Chinese

citizens are able to access websites of other countries. However, each time you search something on any search engine, whoever runs that engine controls what you see first. So unless people want to scroll through a couple thousand pages, reliable information is hard to find. Even social media sites like Facebook are prohibited; you can’t even access it through most American smartphones.

People are subject to being filmed and recorded everywhere they go. Innocent people are arrested with no explanation and most of this goes unnoticed. No one shows any interest. It was not until I reviewed my notes that I connected the dots between the protests I was researching, with the overall lack of rights. These people were not just fed up with being deprived of the fruits of their labor. They were not just complaining, or demanding more money like many protestors we see in the U.S. They were summoning the courage and bravery to stand up and defend something they felt they deserved. They were exercising rights they have not been granted by their government.

They may not have these rights on paper, but they are rights each person has

engrained in their soul. These people are quietly taking a stand on something they believe in. These men and women have the strength to risk not only their jobs, but also risk incarceration and their safety. This protest is not just about money, it is about freedom.

Many agree that China has made dramatic improvements over the past few years, which is great. But as I witnessed first hand, there is still a disruption in the community. These courageous men and women have taken a big step in making a change. Whether their voice is heard and a change is made or things stay the same, they should be acknowledged and admired for their hope and bravery.

We cannot change the government’s decision to hear their voice or not, but we can listen. Maybe if enough people listened, we could help make that change possible. I do not claim to know the answers. All I can hope to do at this point is share my story and encourage others to find ways they too, can take a stand. If these people are brave enough to speak up, the least we can do is let them know that thousands of miles away, someone can hear them.

Collegian Times 15

Reporter’s Notebook

Amazing is so close Bryce Canyon Amphitheater Ready for Show

By Svetlana Yurash Hoodoo in Bryce Canyon, Utah. Photo Courtesy Google.

It was a few hours until sunset when we finally entered Bryce Canyon National Park, after five hours of driving from Las Vegas.

“Where is the Canyon?” I asked looking out the car window at the dense forest that surrounded us. Nobody answered, because everybody had the same question.

We went to the information center, grabbed some maps and information brochures. According to the map, the canyon was somewhere to the left. We drove, following the signs to the first viewpoint. When we got out of the car and looked at the huge canyon from the edge, it was breathtaking.

The unique, spectacular landscape seemed different from anything that I’ve ever seen on Earth. There were a lot of different colors like red, yellow, orange Hoodoos are pillars of rock, formed by wind, water and ice erosion of the river and lake bed sedimentary rocks.

Anasazi an ancient Native American cultural groups.

Paiute refers to three closely related groups of Native Americans — the Northern Paiute of California, Idaho, Nevada and Oregon; the Owens Valley Paiute of California and Nevada; and the Southern Paiute of Arizona, southeastern California and Nevada, and Utah.

The Fremont culture or Fremont people is a pre-Columbian archaeological culture which received its name from the Fremont River in the were discovered. The Fremont River itself is named for John Charles Frémont, an American explorer.

16 Collegian Times

Photos By Svetlana Yurash

U.S. state of Utah where the first Fremont sites

and white. There was magnificence and it Nothing stays in impressed me. The landscape looked like memory as long as Mars, even though I’ve never been there. traveling with great Wonderful natural shapes reminded me of gigantic stalagmites in a huge open wild company to wonderful cave. The clearest air and refreshing breeze places. The best filled my lungs and I screamed “E-he-hej!” vacation is active and I heard the endless echo in response.

There are many natural wonders of the recreation. world; Bryce Canyon National Park should be one of them in my opinion. It is located in Southwestern Utah. Bryce Canyon, turned to stone for misbehaving. You can famous for its unique geology, consists of a see them there now — some standing in series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters rows, some sitting down, some holding created by erosion and carved from the onto others, just as they were before they eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. became rocks.

At Bryce Canyon National Park, A brochure from the Visitors Center erosion forms an array of fantastic shapes offers background information on the called hoodoos. Bryce sits at a much higher canyon. Bryce Canyon has an interesting elevation than nearby Zion National Park history. Capt. Clarence E. Dutton and and the Grand Canyon. The rim, or the John Wesley Powell explored this area in highest point at Bryce Canyon, varies from the 1870s and gave it many place names 8,000 to 9,000 feet. like Pink Cliffs; place or home of the People have lived in the Colorado Plateau region for about 12,000 years, according to literature from the Bryce Canyon Visitors Center, but only random fragments of worked stone reveal their presence near Bryce Canyon.

Artifacts from the Pueblo-period, Anasazi and the Fremont culture add details of human use at lower elevations.

Paiute history says the hoodoos are the “Legend People” This Hoodoo seems like a lonely man looking thoughtfully on the sunset in Agua Canyon Point of Bryce Canyon, Utah. who the coyote had

From top to bottom photos by: Google Images, Svetlana Yurash

beavers; Paria, muddy water or elk water; Panguitch etc.

In 1875, Ebenezer Bryce, a Mormon pioneer, came to the Paria Valley to live and to harvest plateau timber. Neighbors called the canyon behind his home Bryce’s Canyon. Soon after 1900, people were coming to see the colorful geological sights, and the first accommodations were built along the rim above Bryce’s Canyon.

In 1923, President Warren G. Harding proclaimed part of the area as Bryce Canyon National Monument under the Powell (now the Dixie) National Forest.

In 1924 legislation established the area as Utah National Park, but the legislation provisions were not met until 1928.

Legislation passes that year changed the name to Bryce Canyon National Park.

A lot of visitors drive around to the 15 viewpoints over the amphitheaters.

Bryce Canyon has eight marked and maintained hiking trails that can be hiked in less than a day. The park also has two trails designated for overnight hiking: the 9-mile Riggs Spring Loop Trail and the 23-mile Under-the-Rim Trail. Both require a back-country camping permit, which costs $5 and only a limited number are available.

In total, there are 50 miles of trails in the park.

The air in the area is so clear that on most days from Yovimpa and Rainbow Points, Arizona Peaks, Navajo Mountain

and the Kaibab Plateau are visible 90 miles away. The night sky is so dark that stargazers can see 7,500 stars with the naked eye, while in most places fewer than 2,000 stars are visible.

Park rangers host public stargazing events and evening programs on astronomy, nocturnal animals and night sky protection.

The Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival, typically held in June, attracts thousands of visitors.

There are two campgrounds in the park: the North Campground and the Sunset Campground. The 114-room Bryce Canyon Lodge is another way to overnight in the park. There are hotels next to Bryce Canyon for people who do not like camping.

Another exciting way to view Bryce Canyon is by horseback. In spring, summer and fall, Canyon Trail Rides wranglers lead 2-hour and 4-hour horse and mule rides into Bryce Amphitheater along a dedicated horse trail and the Peek-a-boo Loop Trail.

For people who have never ridden a horse, it’s a good place to start. During the ride, they will be informed by local cowboys of the history and geology of Bryce Canyon, they can also take pictures and experience the Canyon.

For more information go to: http://www.nps.gov/brca/ planyourvisit/index.htm

Formations of hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, Utah.

How to get there?

By plane: The closest airport with regularly scheduled service is at Cedar City, and also fairly close is the airport at St. George. In addition, you can fly to Las Vegas, Nevada, and rent a car; or take a shuttle from there to St. George, where you can also rent a car.

Bryce Canyon Airport (tel. 435-834-5239; www. brycecanyoncountry.com/county/airport.html), Charter service is available from Bryce Canyon Airlines (tel. 435-834-5341; www.rubysinn.com/brycecanyon-airlines.html).

By car: From St. George, travel north on I-15 10 miles to exit 16, east on Utah 9 for 63 miles to U.S. 89, north 44 miles to Utah 12, and then east 17 miles on Utah 12 to the park entrance road.

From Las Vegas, NV, travel north on I-15 209 miles, exit Take exit 95 for UT-20 toward US-89/ Panguitch/Circleville, Turn right onto UT-20 E, Turn right onto US-89 S, Turn left onto US-89 S/E Center St Continue to follow US-89 S, Turn left onto UT-12 E, Turn right onto UT-63 S, Turn left onto Bryce Point Rd. By bus: Greyhound buses from L.A. to Parowan or St. George, UT, and take a tour bus, rent a car.

The best way to go there by car, you can compare 4 states: California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah.

Collegian Times 17

Best Automated Java: Coffee machine behind Da Vinci Hall.

Closest withdrawals: ATM located at the Business Office.

Best Women's Rom: Located in Da Vinci Hall

Best Connection: Full wifi bars at the Quad.

Best of City: Navigate College Life

Illustration By Jose Tobar

Best Food Truck: Harry's Catering Truck behind Franklin Hall.

Best Men's Room: Located in the Child's Development Center.

Best Bang for Your Buck: Little Ceasars across the street from campus.

S o c i e t y ’s Gone Haywire!

Navigate the Apocalypse Here

Illustration By Jose Tobar

22 Collegian Times

the Mayan calendar will coincide with the end of the Earth is possibly just as foolish.

In fact, the Mayans themselves never saw it this way. December 2012 is simply the end of their b’ak’tun, or era – not very different from how we treat each new, promising decade.

The Collegian has compiled a guide to thrive and possibly survive should the apocalypse really occur. There’s a drink

guide to go down swigging and swinging, some last meal suggestions, a means of training to outrun zombies if necessary and many other things.

If the planet happens to survive to see the dawn of 2013, it will be a reminder that everyone ought to live every day with impending doom, just to live it fully.

Illustration By Jose Tobar

It seems every once in a while, the people of Earth entertain the idea of the world going up in a funereal nuclear pyre. Yet the world made it through Y2K, life persists even though Heaven’s Gate followers do not, and the self-proclaimed prophet, Harold Camping, whose many predictions of the rapture have not come to fruition, must also deal with the fact that he is still alive. The belief that the end of

Training for the Apocalypse

By Kenneth Jara

Photos By Seung Choi

Some historians, philosophers and scientists are not sure what will happen on Dec. 21, 2012, the supposed end of the world according to the Mayan calendar. This belief can be traced back to the days of the Mayans. Some people think this was the first civilization to begin keeping track of days.

It is also believed that they invented the calendar. The Mayan calendar sparked the 2012 theory, which has scared some of the world for more than a thousand years, and has some believing the world will end on 12-21-12.

In Mesoamerica, the Mayans worked out, because they had to fight to stay alive. The dead lift is a workout that has been used since the time of the Mayans. It involves taking heavy amounts of dead weight to help increase muscular fitness and burn calories.

This technique is part of the routine at Cross-Fit City of Angels, a fitness center on the corner of Heliotrope and Melrose, adjacent to City College. The fitness instructors as well as students who go to Cross-Fit would be the best people to have around you, if the Apocalypse were to arrive.

How would you survive and stay fit on “Judgment Day?” “Nutrition is the key to staying fit,” said Peter Roulete, the owner and a trainer at Cross-Fit City of Angels. “Without the right diet, even when you exercise a lot, you will not get that body you’ve been wishing for, because you will just continue gaining weight. The exercise that would be good when the apocalypse arrives, is running.”

Roulete says people need to be able to run to evade predators in an Apocalypse.

“On top of this, it is a great cardiovascular exercise. The more you run, the more endurance you build,” Roulete said.

Rose Bachtel is also a trainer at Cross-Fit. She explained her method of survival.

“The exercises I would do are intervals, as well as long distance running, push ups, sprinting, and gymnastics, also take anything you can find on the streets and lift it,” she said. “For my diet I would definitely eat meat, mostly healthy fat, and of course vegetables, because you need to stay healthy.”

Students say they have found benefits from going to Cross-Fit. They had a lot to say about how they would survive the end of the world.

“Running, push ups, sit ups are the core exercises you need, because these exercises are going to allow you to run fast and also be strong for when the zombies are trying to attack you,” said Cross-Fit member Jason Bergh. “The best diet in the world is made from plants, seeds, and pure protein. You want to be as healthy as you can when the Apocalypse arrives.”

The tips provided by the trainers can help you in many ways even if the apocalypse does not happen. If it does happen, it could be just the help that you need to kick the asses of the “predators” trying to attack you.

Cross-Fit City of Angels is located at 4314 Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles, CA. To get more information on the Athlete Training Programs, call (323) 284-8906 or email pete@crossfitcityofangels.com.

Collegian Times 23

1

More for the Road

The Collegian Drink Guide

By Emanuel Bergmann

Can’t make it out of the house for the end of the world? Too much shooting and looting going on outside?

Relax! You can make do with what’s left in your kitchen. After all, what were you going to do with the leftovers from last night’s party, anyway? And why not die drunk? Here are some perfect cocktail recipes so you don’t have to sit through Judgment Day sober.

Ernest Hemingway’s favorite cocktail, consisting of white rum, lime juice, and sugar. Simple and elegant, just like Papa’s writing. Oh, and did we mention that Papa blew his brains out?

3 fluid ounces light rum 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon white sugar 2 cups cracked ice

Jack Daniels, straight, no chaser 24 Collegian Times

The Martini Perhaps the greatest drink of all time and without a doubt the perfect drink for the end of time. A touch of vermouth is offset by a lot of gin (or vodka, depending on what’s left on your sofa table).

Ideally, drop an olive or two in the glass, or a bit of lemon peel.

Don’t you love the name? We thought it the perfect send-off.

About 1 cup ice cubes 1/4 cup (2 ounces) reposado tequila 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) ginger beer or ginger ale 1 teaspoon crème de cassis 1 lime wedge

Champagne Wouldn’t you want a nice, cold sip of Taittinger or Perrier-Jouer to be the last thing you taste before you kick the bucket? A glass of champagne makes dying so much more fun!

A few drops vermouth A glass of gin Two-three olives What more do you need?

For those of us who take their drinking seriously and don’t want to mess about with measuring cups at the end of times. It gets the job done.

Photos by Matthew Mullins , Drinks mixed by David Lebarron, Bartender at Akbar 4356 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029 » (323) 665-6810

The Daiquiri

El Diablo

Photo By Matthew Mullins

The Faculty

* Uninteresting, uninspired ** Decent $ Under $10

*** Worth your time **** Excellent

$ $ Under $20

***** Superb

By Emanuel Bergmann

If you’re going to die (and you are), it might as well be at The Faculty. No, not the LACC faculty, dummy! Do you really want to run into your professor as you prepare to meet your maker?

And how do you prepare for death anyway? Fall on your knees and pray?

So dramatic! One last screw in the bathroom stall? So dirty! Perhaps it’s best to meet your end with a glass of good wine raised in a farewell toast, a long goodbye to all that.

The Faculty serves specialty wine and beers, as well as snacks and sandwiches, in comfortable, laid back surroundings. Yes, images of the apocalypse might be playing on the flat-screen TV, but other than that, there are worse places to go. The room is calm, friendly and inviting. The food includes brisket sandwiches, Reubens and many others. For veggie-lovers, we recommend the homemade egg salad sandwich or the Ratatouille wrap in a wheat tortilla. Among the choices of meats and cheeses are Genoa salami and Mortadella, as well as Camembert, sharp cheddar and Humboldt fog. Mike Neufeld, one of the three proprietors of The Faculty, is dedicated to fresh, organic fare.

“We’re dedicated to craft brews as well as boutique, artisan wines from all over the world,” Neufeld says. “We have a global concentration rather than a local concentration.”

Indeed, sampling global cuisine might be the perfect way to wave the globe goodbye. At the very least, your last meal at The Faculty will be unique.

“Here you get something that you can’t find in stores,” Neufeld says. “A lot of the families that we buy from, we actually buy most of the production of their wineries.” There are plenty of beers on draft, as well as a wide variety of reds and whites.

“We have four to five different breweries representing the different styles of beers, mostly American craft beers,” Neufeld says.

Specifically, Neufeld recommends a pale Ale. “We have a beer called 11-11-11,” Neufeld says, “from Stone Brewery. It’s a Belgian style pale ale, with a hint of cinnamon. On your deathbed, that’s the beer you want.”

You better hurry though! “They produce a different beer every year,” Neufeld says. Until, of course, there are no more years. For those of us who always wanted to dine and die in style, The Faculty is the perfect spot.

*** $$

$ $ $ Big Spender $20+

Collegian Times 25

The Last Meal Elf Cafe

2135 Sunset Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90026 213.484.6829 FOR RESERVATIONS Wednesday-Sunday 6:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.

By Lauren Arevalo Baked sheep’s milk feta and tomatoes, tahini avocado puree, and baked mushroom tarts, fragrant with thyme and garlic: these and other creations are what make Elf Cafe stand out from the pack of brazenly uninspired vegetarian restaurants.

Located on the busy intersection of Sunset and Alvarado in Echo Park, Elf charms with its unique Mediterranean flair and mouthwatering menu. It is not even obvious until you sit in its warm interiors with wooded, Moroccan-influenced décor and leafy potted plants that you’re in a top-tier vegetarian and vegan establishment. If you like the sensuality of candlelit dinners, Elf has this mood in spades; all while offering patrons an ideal spot to wind down with a hearty, plant-based meal

and your own bottle of wine for a $5 corkage fee.

The restaurant offers plenty of choices for the health-conscious, and vegan options for their popular dishes. The roasted beet with braised fennel and pappardelle with an exquisite saffron cream sauce ($16) is both vegan and gluten free. Savory crepes fashioned out of chickpea flour, filled to the brim with spinach and cheese gratin ($18) are lovingly arranged and harmonious in flavor. The starters are indulgent enough to tempt even the most hardened carnivore, with an assortment of plates so varied it is difficult to choose from. The cornmeal and herb-dusted buffalo oyster mushrooms ($11), served alongside a freshly made harissa with

some great, peppery heat and a bleu cheese cream reduction that is nothing if not decadent.

Secure a reservation, as Elf has limited hours and is frequently packed.

Reservation hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., by way of email only. They are unfortunately unable to seat very large groups and can accommodate parties as large as four indoors and a group of six outdoors. Street parking is occasionally difficult. This is the ideal place for a date with your vegetarian sweetheart or if you’re looking for an upgrade from the usual salads and faux-meat victuals the uninformed Angeleno will suffer through.

**** $$

Photos By Patrick Chong

26 Collegian Times

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Collegian Times 27

By Lauren Arevalo

Music to Go Out to Up and Coming Artists

Ryder Bach of the Body Parts

Ryder Bach is the songwriter behind the experimental pop band, Body Parts. We met at Fix Coffee in Echo Park to discuss musical indecision, the experience of performing at the South by Southwest festival and his plans for the future.

Collegian: How hard is it to be a band in L.A.?

Ryder Bach: It’s really horrible! Inevitably, if you do it for more than two or three years it starts to get much more complicated. Once the sheen of newness wears off, a very tedious thing, but I tend to enjoy very tedious things. The way Body Parts is structured; it’s very deliberate. There’s spontaneity in it but not like normal bands. I think in normal bands it’s less planned out.

Collegian: How is Body Parts different than a “normal band” that way?

Ryder Bach: There is a lot in the arrangement process and songwriting process and rehearsal process. I guess it’s more mechanical or scientific in a way. It’s not literally scientific, but the way I tend to do it is like, well, there are these three options – it could be this or this? Which one is the best?

I take those decisions very seriously, sometimes a little too seriously and that’s when it gets tedious. Like, this air drum hit could be on the “for” or the “and,” and that’s a life or death decision sometimes, as opposed to other bands where it is fun [laughs]. It still is fun!

Collegian: In spite of this your music has a really lighthearted, sort of funny quality to it. What has been the inspiration for this?

Ryder Bach: I think that quality you’re talking about is probably just unintentional. I think it comes about because of the way that I am, probably. I couldn’t get rid of it if I tried to. I think that’s my personality coming through regardless of how much I try to squash it.

Collegian: What do you have planned for the future?

Ryder Bach: I am working on this project called “Fire Dream” right now. All of the music that I am writing can fall under this heading. Sort of like the name “Body Parts,” “Fire Dream” can also mean a lot of things. I picked the name “Fire Dream” to categorize this feeling of dread about the way the world is and the way people are right now – the feeling I get from people in my generation; the obsession with principles and religion and cults a little bit.

I think everyone has certain cult-like qualities in certain aspects to their lives. Not that specific cults intrigue me, but I think that families are, in a way, like a cult. I think to have a group of people doing anything in an orderly fashion has qualities of a cult. I feel like families or religions or organizations are a symptom.

I think there’s something about them and how people become obsessed with things right now. Maybe it’s been like this always, but that’s sort of what “Fire Dream” is about.

“It’s a very tedious thing, but I tend to enjoy very tedious things.”

http://bodypartsband.com/ http://bodyparts.bandcamp.com/ http://twitter.com/bodypartsband

Photos By Inae Bloom

28 Collegian Times

I’m using it to take my songwriting to a larger scale and to deal with broader issues. I am using it as a justification to deal with obsession, depression and sadness. We’re going to record an EP this summer. It will be the first part of “Fire Dream.” I don’t know how many parts there will be but this will be part one. We’re [also] releasing a video for our song, “Doing Things.”

Collegian: What’s a good place to eat after practice?

Ryder Bach: Forage is the best. My friend calls it “Oily Vegetables.” It’s just super-fresh vegetables in olive oil. It’s so good. After practice – if practice goes really horribly or really well – that’s the place to go. If it went so bad I had to get my mind off it or if we had a breakthrough, we go there. That’s actually where we found out we got into SXSW (South by Southwest). It’s just a good place. Good things happen at Forage.

Collegian: Tell me about your SXSW experience.

Ryder Bach: It was really weird and really crazy and overwhelming. You hear stories that there are a lot of things going on and a lot of bands, but when you’re there it feels like an alternate universe. It feels like all of the rules of the world have dissolved and like, something really sinister is happening! You walk down the street and there were like, thousands of people and if you had to guess, like 85 percent of them were drunk and like, the drunkest they could possibly be and had been drunk for the past couple of days. You’re like, this isn’t a good thing that’s happening here! This is bad for the world! It didn’t feel like a positive thing.

On the other hand, we saw some great music and played nine shows, which is crazy. One day we played three shows. Our official show was really good. It was at Maggie Mae’s Gibson Room. We played first in the night with some bands from Portland and Oakland. This band Foxtails Brigade from Oakland was amazing. It was kind of a folky night, so we didn’t particularly fit musically but it was still really fun and everyone was good at what they did. It’s probably more fun too if you’re not playing nine shows. We saw Chairlift, man. They are so good. It was like, terrifying. This girl Caroline (Polachek) is a superhuman from like, another world. She’s a goddess. It was nuts.

Collegian: One question you could ask yourself. Answer it.

Ryder Bach: Can you just say that your question reduced me to nothing? That I opted not to answer out of concern for my health?

1. Scan this code with your smartphone.

2. Click “Download Folder” 3. Enjoy the Collegian Music Compilation

Batwings Catwings

Batwings Catwings makes a very listenable brand of noisepop and recently opened for the Brazilian rock band, CSS. Dana Poblete’s powerhouse vocals found their match when she met drummer Clay Johnson. Soon they tacked on a few more members, bassist Josh Crampton and guitarist Ray Santillan III, to make the close-knit foursome. They took a moment to talk to the Collegian after writing some new songs in their Atwater Village studio about the band’s origins and a tour mishap.

A Monday Night Interview

Collegian: How did Batwings Catwings get started?

Clay Johnson: The original beginning of the band was, well, we were in two separate bands and our bands were finishing and breaking up, pretty much, at the same time. There was this band called Foot Village and they’re a drum band that are our good friends. They were playing at the Smell and Dana was on stage with them because one of the singers from the band handed her a megaphone because they use megaphones to sing. Everyone was on stage and it’s really high energy and I saw her screaming her a** off through this megaphone with this really heavy, drum-beat band. It was really tribal and crazy. I’m like … she’s rad! She was yelling and screaming bloody murder. I’m like, I want her to be in my next project or my next band, so I just asked her and we just started it with two other members, and these guys came in later [gestures to Josh and Ray]. Josh has always been a friend and we needed a bass player and he jumped in. Our other buddy was playing guitar and he had to move away, so Ray jumped in and he was a mutual friend, too, so. [It’s been] a couple years now, yeah.

Collegian: So what are some aspects of your live show that you can’t really capture on a recording?

Clay Johnson: Josh’s hip thrusts. [Laughs all around.] Ray’s hair.

Dana Poblete: My hair.

Clay Johnson: Dana’s hair. My lack of hair.

Ray Santillan III: I think that live there’s definitely a lot of energy.

I mean, you do get it on the recording but when you see it live, it’s way more fun. You can just see we’re just having fun up there.

Dana Poblete: Yeah, I think it’s really obvious that we’re good friends and we hang out all the time and when we’re on stage together … this sounds kind of cheesy, but it’s just another chance to hang out together.

Clay Johnson: It’s funny. We just always look at each other like, hey, there’s Ray! He’s playing guitar with me right now … that’s crazy [laughs].

Dana Poblete: And we haven’t even known Ray that long, but he’s like our best friend now.

Ray Santillan III: We definitely had like, a bonding moment, that I think solidified it.

Collegian: What was the bonding moment?

Ray Santillan III: My first show with them when we went to Mexicali and our van broke down. I really didn’t know them. I only knew them through certain friends. It was just kind of strange joining the band.

Normally, I play with buddies and stuff so it was weird. [I thought] I don’t know if I’m going to get along with them and this is my first road trip with them. Our van broke down. We were like in the middle of the desert and it was like a million degrees, and it was just one of those things like, this is going to show whether we get along or not on a real level, rather than just playing music together … and it was fun! As dreadful as that whole experience was, it was awesome.

Dana Poblete: You had a great attitude.

Ray Santillan III: You had to, during that.

Collegian: How did you guys make it out?

Clay Johnson: Randomly, somebody was coming through that exact same road to come back to L.A. Ray Santillan III: About eight hours later…

Clay Johnson: We had to ditch the van and we just got in the people’s cars and busted back to L.A. and I think the van’s probably still sitting out there.

Josh Crampton: We borrowed it from our other friend.

Clay Johnson: It was just a crappy, crappy, crappy van.

Collegian: They didn’t care?

Clay Johnson: It was chill! I called him up and I’m like … “Uh, Martin … your van is still stranded in the desert and we’re not gonna go get it and it’s kaput,” and he was like, “It’s cool man!”

Ray Santillan III: We ended up playing with him that Monday too, so it just shows that he was so cool about it. Most people I think would have a cow.

Collegian: So, how difficult is it to be an L.A. band?

Dana Poblete: Well, I think it’s easy because there’s a lot of opportunities to play live. There are a lot of cool venues and it’s pretty easy to socialize with other bands and book shows with bands that you’re actually a fan of.

Clay Johnson: In the same token, it’s hard to stick out, because there are so many bands.

Ray: Everybody’s in a band in L.A. Clay Johnson: And people get tired of bands. You see so many bands. It’s kind of hard to rise above it and not worry about just being an L.A. band. We loved our scene and our community of bands, but we also wanted our music to persevere in this area. So we tried to keep that in mind, but being an L.A. band is also awesome because it is supportive.

Collegian: What are some things you have planned?

Dana Poblete: We’re recording some new songs right now and hopefully try to put out a 7-inch or something, later this summer, maybe.

Ray Santillan III: A little mini-tour. [We’re] talking about going up North.

Clay Johnson: We’re writing a lot. We put something out on a label, you know. We’ve put out things on like, four or five different labels but they’re all super-small labels, and they’re all basically because they’re friends. We’re trying to get support from different labels that can maybe reach out to more people than the smaller labels that we’ve been on can.

Josh Crampton: And we’re talking about doing a “Jem and the Holograms” video.

Dana Poblete: Oh, yeah! We’re shooting a new music video … it’s going to be really cool. It’s going to be an ‘80s surf [and] summer romance kind of thing.

Collegian Times 29

Dobrega “I’d rather make one good song than 20 beats”

Charlie Domingo was once a self-described “snooty instrumentalist kid.” Growing up, his intense interest in jazz led him to discover groups like jazz fusion band Weather Report, and in particular Joe Zawinul, who incorporated synthesizers and the Fender Rhodes electric piano into jazz. Now, Domingo is working on balancing acoustic textures with the broad, new sounds of electronic music. He released an EP in December 2011 called “The Rebuild,” and most recently, experienced success raising funds for his first music video through the online crowd-funding program, Kickstarter.

Collegian: What kind of music do you make?

Charlie Domingo: Actually, I finally got a good explanation for it last night while I was at a friend’s show … It’s influenced by the worlds of hip-hop and electronic music, but isn’t really either. It’s trying to go in a new direction and kind of build upon those two.

Collegian: Tell me what inspires you.

Charlie Domingo: A lot of things inspire me. I started as a bass player; I love playing bass, but it can be limiting.

The thing that inspires me most is being able to create a full sound. I really look up to a lot of composers. There are a lot of people especially in L.A. who are big into beat music, so I think that beat music is a big part of what I am doing. I’d rather make a full song. Those cats are like, “well, you gotta pump out 20 beats a day,” but I’d rather make

Maston Soundtrack to Lucid Dreaming

Frank Maston is a one-man psychedelic pop tour de force releasing EP’s “VOYAGES” and “Opal.” He is currently working on a full-length venture under the moniker Maston when he is not busy with the band So Many Wizards.

30 Collegian Times

“If you’re going to really commit and get a tape, it becomes an experience at that point, versus having a CD just so you can import that into your iTunes.”

dobrega.bandcamp.com www.dobrega.com

where you kind of realize that you’re dreaming for a second, because then you have an element of control, but you don’t really because it’s still a dream.

Collegian: I purchased “Opal” on cassette tape some time ago.

Can you tell about the resurgence of the cassette and why you chose that medium?

Frank Maston: Well there’s a couple reasons. Probably the main reason is because I had only released things on CD before and I thought it would be good to have my music in a different format that I’ve never heard it on before and there’s a lot of nostalgic value for me, because I’ve had a lot of cassettes before I was old enough to turn to the CD player.

They were actually really inexpensive to produce compared to CD’s and I could make more of them and distribute them out more freely than I had done with a CD. It was just a better package. I think it was more of a special thing.

Collegian: So you’ve been getting a lot of press in the blogosphere. Do you think this kind of coverage is just as powerful as say, a magazine interview?

Frank Maston: Oh yeah, definitely yeah. I still think that print media holds a little more value, personally. Blogs are also a little bit more accessible, but they’re not really equals.

Collegian: What music blogs do you read?

Frank Maston: I read this blog called “The Rising Storm” a lot – it’s kind of like a vintage music blog. They have older, forgotten-about bands. I also really like Aquarium Drunkard.

Collegian: What are your hopes and dreams?

Frank Maston: I want to just make music forever. http://maston.bandcamp.com http://soundcloud.com/maston http://www.somanywizards.com

Photos By Inae Bloom

Collegian: As we conduct this interview, where are you and what are you up to?

Frank Maston: I’m in a house about 45 minutes north of L.A. in a little town that’s called Santa Rosa and I’m actually recording a full-length Maston record for the next couple months here. I was actually just mixing vocal tracks just as you called.

Collegian: What sort of dreams would your music be the soundtrack to?

Frank Maston: That’s a great question. I think lucid dreams

one good song than 20 beats.

I went to school at UCLA … took a composition class and I didn’t know what I was doing at all. I tried to compose this piece for a 15-piece ensemble; a large jazz ensemble. I remember being in this class and the professor, James Newton, who was a mentor of mine said to pick a visual artist to follow in conjunction with your music.

I picked Jamel Shabazz. He is this awesome photographer from New York. I bought two of his books. One is called “A Time Before Crack” and the other one is called “Back in the Days.” He saw crack completely destroy the community that was in Brooklyn at that time and degrade the whole scene. It has a ton of beautiful portraits of all these folks from Brooklyn. From that, I wrote a piece about the compassion of God for people.

Collegian: So … cassettes. That’s kind of a thing right now, right?

Charlie Domingo: Yes, they are kind of a thing. Strangely, they are more popular for sale on the Internet than in person for some reason. People feel like it’s cool to buy something on the Internet and then have it sent to them. I just told myself: this is my first official release, I want to have physical copies and there’s got to be something different between the digital copy and the physical copy.

So if I made a CD – CDs actually have a lower resolution than the recording, so I’d have to degrade my audio to record it on a CD. It would sound like the same thing but just a little crappier than if I just had you download it. It’s easier to download than to send a CD and no one uses a CD anyway. In the other situation, if you’re going to really commit and get a tape, it becomes an experience at that point, versus having a CD just so you can import that into your iTunes.

Torches

on Dead Bodies on the 110 and Phillip Seymour Hoffman TORCHES is a three-piece band comprised of Azad Cheikosman (guitar, vocals), Bridgette Moody (bass, vocals) and Eric Fabbro (drums). They have been playing around Los Angeles since they were at an age when they wouldn’t have been allowed to attend their own shows. Their music has been played on such stations as KCRW, KPFK, KXLU and many more across the U.S. They are releasing their first fulllength album, “Heads Full of Rust,” on May 20.

Collegian: What are some exciting things you have planned?

Azad Cheikosman: We’re doing some “label shopping” and we have a northwest tour in July. So far we’ve booked dates in Olympia, Portland and a good amount of Seattle dates. [We] should be locking in Santa Cruz, San Francisco and more Portland, Olympia and Seattle dates. I guess you could say we’re hoping to push this record and reach out to as many folks and places as possible.

Collegian: What makes “Heads Full of Rust” different than other things you’ve done?

Azad Cheikosman: “Heads Full of Rust” is a record that I believe people will be able to relate to. There’s a lot of singing and vocal interplay on it. We had to learn how to play as a three-piece, but now we’re quite comfortable with where we are. It’s nuts because Bridgette first learned how to play bass when we started becoming a three piece; she picked it up really quick. I can honestly say I like bass more now that she’s playing it.

From what I’ve been told a lot of our friends and also new faces

The Devil Inside

Joe Fraley Bottom left photo courtesy of Joe Fraley

King Devil is the stage persona and the cumulative labors of one Joe Fraley. He is currently working on releasing a self-titled, full-length album of indie pop with a blues bent. We met up with him at Vroman’s bookstore in Pasadena and ran into some recording device snafus in a string of bad luck, finally recording this interview in his car. He talks to the Collegian about superstition and working for the man.

Collegian: Tell me about your beanie and your stage persona.

Joe Fraley: King Devil is the dark side of me. It’s a character I’ve created. I use the beanie as a helmet or a crown, so I can become this character. I think that it adds mystery – without it I am Joe Fraley – but put it on and I become the King Devil.

Collegian: What are your favorite venues in Los Angeles?

Joe Fraley: I like playing the Troubadour and the Satellite. I used

have been connecting really well with these songs. I don’t think we ever had that before. Our sound might be cloudy and hazy around the edges, but it’s a much more clarified sound. […] It’s important to feel a pulse within the music and also be able to pull out words and melodies. More people are singing along, downloading our songs and saying the songs get stuck in their heads. I’d like to think we’re on the right path to something better.

We’re growing as people and as artists.

Collegian: Tell me about your greatest misadventure.

Azad Cheikosman: One night we were driving back from a show and almost ran over a bloody, dead body on the 110 north [freeway]. I don’t think any of us talked the rest of the way home.

Bridgette Moody: I definitely had nightmares about that for a few months after. More so, I was disappointed that I had a perfectly good dead body feet from me and I didn’t get to poke it.

Collegian: Do you feel like an L.A. band? What, if anything, does that mean to you?

Azad Cheikosman: Sometimes you feel as if you’re in a huge ocean surrounded by so many other fish and other times you feel like you’re in a fish bowl. Can anyone see or hear me? It’s easy to go unnoticed. I used to hate L.A., but I’ve grown to appreciate it. You really just have to get out there and explore. This feels like the right place for Torches to develop.

Bridgette Moody: 2012 has been a great year for us, connecting with new bands and building stronger relationships with bands we’ve worked with for years. It’s been great to feel like we belong in a “scene.”

Collegian: One question you want to be asked. Answer it.

Azad Cheikosman: When do I get paid?

Azad Cheikosman: Soon?

Bridgette Moody: Would you like to star in a nightly performance of nautical-themed adaptations of current Billboard charttoppers on a three-star cruise with Phillip Seymour Hoffman? Answer: Yes, please, and thank you. http://torchesmusic.com http://facebook.com/torchesintrees http://soundcloud.com/torchesintrees http://twitter.com/torchesintrees

to love playing at the Knitting Factory. I like smaller, intimate venues, but I am sure I would love big ones too.

Collegian: Before you knew you were a musician, what other childhood ambitions did you have?

Joe Fraley: I wanted to be an actor and a filmmaker and a screenwriter. Then, I discovered music. That drove me just as much as filmmaking. I would like to still make films. Films are such an ambitious thing to do and it’s so difficult and I would like to do that one day. Right now I can’t, so I make music.

Collegian: Have we had bad luck today?

Joe Fraley: Last night I was at a graveyard and someone I was with dropped a tombstone and somehow he made a tombstone fall over.

I had to pick it up and put it back. That is bad luck, isn’t it? I think the dead are going to come back and terrorize everyone that comes around me.

Collegian: Tell me about your day job.

Joe Fraley: Right now I work in reality television. I go into a building and stare at a machine for eight hours and it sucks essence out of me. It takes part of my soul away from me with each frame that I watch. I get paid for that. I get paid for my soul.

Collegian: We all have one day left on this planet; what’s your soundtrack?

Joe Fraley: That’s too hard of a question. I would like to listen to so many things. I would like to listen to all of “Kid A” (Radiohead), many Beatles albums, many Pink Floyd albums; many albums, many songs, many, many songs.

Collegian Times 31

“Be yourself, be bold and don’t compromise for anyone, you’ll gain respect for being yourself.”

Fashion Survival

By Régine Simmonds

Belle N. Matisse by Alexandria Norman Alexandria Norman is a 19 year old Los Angeles native.

She launched her first collection, Belle N. Matisse. The collection was inspired by her mom; the line exudes strength and independence. THIS PAGE: Dress, geometric with leather detail, with winged shorts, angel wing top and scull embroidered pants, Belle N. Matisse, necklaces, Safia.

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Photos By Seung Hyun Choi

Credits Makeup: Debora Herrera / 213.663.8555 / deboraherrera026@gmail.com Hair: Régine Simmonds Models: Sara Rosenkrantz / Dorothy Wms-Kohlmeyer Wardrobe: Belle N. Matisse / www.bellenmatisse.com / Elaine Marie / www.elainemariestyle.com Accessories: Safia www.safiaday.com / Lisa George www. lisageorgedesigns.com / Bijou Ginou Production and location scouting: Régine Simmonds Fashion Director: Régine Simmonds Special thanks to Kim Goodnight Pure Consulting/www. pureconsultinginfo.com

Only the boldest use it and survive: FASHION. In 2012, people are stirred up about evolution, apocalypse, armageddon, global consciousness and, of course, DNA perfection.

Although the Mayan calendar is calling attention to a new era along with some cryptic predictions, now is the time to wear what you want without apology.

Now is the time to stop living vicariously through the pages of your favorite fashion magazine. Time to stop pretending you are on a sleek fashion runway in Paris. Now is the time to live fearlessly.

Here are some secrets to fashion survival: Make a statement without saying a word.

Choose clothing with details.

Choose to stand out and never blend in.

With black as a primary selection, it has become a sort of religious commandment. If you do not want to wear all black, strengthen the allure of the look with funky, evocative prints and bright colors.

Opt for unique pieces with details, textures and even accessories such as rhinestones.

With the prediction of the end of the world and end of days, so follows the end of fashion mistakes.

This is the launch of a NEW WORLD FASHION ORDER. In April, L.A. Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2012 unfolded at the Concept Ace Gallery.

New fashion designers Belle Mattise and Elaine Marie stood out with unorthodox combinations. Belle Mattise introduced her loud ensemble of fallen angel wings on a top and rebel shorts. Elaine Marie went for a collection with a brighter and more colorful approach.

When in doubt, choose your statement piece to pull together a look that makes you feel comfortable. Whatever you do, channel your inner rebel. Make the statement that you want to make, not the one you’ve been taught. Try it before it’s too late.

“I wish that women would learn to dress a little more fearlessly with what they wear.”

Elaine Marie’s designs are for the everyday young L.A. working lady. Her style focuses on fine fabrics and fun prints. THIS PAGE: Textured tiki blazer and tiki tops.

Blazer wing-enforced shoulder, with shorts, angel-wing top and scull embroidered pants, Belle N. Matisse, necklaces, Safia.

Double-stranded tank and skirt, two-piece linen, Elaine Marie.

Necklaces, Lisa George (left) Safia on (right).

Collegian Times 33

Standing Against Hypocrisy, Cynicism

Sam Eisenstein

T

his month I enter my ninth decade of life and the 50th year as an instructor at L.A. City College.

I believe I owe both my life and my career to the first Gov. Brown, who managed to convince a sometimes-reluctant set of legislators that California’s future depends on educating its young, particularly those who could never afford it without subsidy or some kind of aid.

My immigrant parents couldn’t have dreamed of paying for a school like USC, Claremont or Pepperdine. At that time the state colleges didn’t exist. Their mother campus, like UCLA, was L.A. Junior College, renamed L.A. Community College.

Nobody expects that tuition will ever be as cheap as it was in 1951, when I matriculated at the Westwood campus. It was $42 a semester, a bargain even then. But California voters weren’t so greedy that they would prefer to nickel and dime the system that Pat Brown fought to put into effect. An educated workforce is one that innovates and pays higher taxes. It’s a population that stays

out of jail. It’s a sound investment in the future.

Something the Jarvis people and republicans in the state legislature ignore or cynically fight.

Or is the better word hypocrisy? Those backward-looking people claim that lower taxes and greater subsidies to business mean more industry. At the same time cutting back on services to the poor and disabled, which does not augment the state’s coffers, it merely demonstrates selfishness and greed and shortsightedness on the part of people who will never vote themselves anything but higher pay and benefits.

Aimless, jobless and lacking education – the precise recipe for the augmentation of street gangs, career criminals, pimps, prostitutes and drug pushers. What else do you do without the hope of a decent job that comes with skills learned in public school?

Greater numbers of junior college students are dropping out before achieving their Associate of Arts degree, partly, I believe, because many of them see no way of paying for a bachelor’s degree in a four-year college. Or, they blanch before the crushing weight of student loans, the decrease of which republicans in Congress are cynically pinning to a further hit in aid to the helpless.

I have seen a heavy atmosphere of hypocrisy creep into my college, which has a long and proud tradition of graduating people who have learned well what information their instructors impart. In these impoverished times, adjunct teachers have little hope of achieving tenure, so some of them stoop to passing on students who demonstrate little ability in their classes, in hopes of currying favor with the powers that be. An excuse is often the totally disproved notion that self-esteem is the most important aspect of education.

I’ve been in the classroom for half

Guest Columnists

a century, with the staunch backing of a teachers union, the AFT, an organization not afraid to criticize its own ranks. My institution is an inclined plane for a rising middle class, taking in immigrants, natives, aliens from every country on earth in what is arguably our best possible melting pot.

When I was born, Social Security, health insurance, free (or close to it) higher education and longevity were either non-existent or in short supply. Big business was happy to not have to contend with minimum wage or eight-hour work days.

These improvements have been hard-fought against entrenched greed. They are today in danger of erosion or complete collapse.

There are powerful pocketbooks that desire nothing more than to destroy, eradicate the vocal middle class. They would have had me working as a taxi driver or stevedore rather than as a college professor.

I try to instill in my students the thrill of learning, the ability to resist the bullying and blandishments of advertising, the critical thinking necessary to make intelligent decisions.

Cynicism and hypocrisy are the twin demons of our era, both leading to hopelessness and a sense of futility.

Education is the way out of the pit in which many contemporaries find themselves mired.

We must find ways to continue to make it available to all who seek it out.

Sam Eisenstein, Ph.D., MFT, has been a professor in the English Department at LACC since 1961. His novels are published by Red Hen and Green Integer Press, among others.

He is also a licensed marriage and family counselor.

Veterans Lose Benefits Amid Budget Cuts

M

Andrew McGivern 34 Collegian Times

ilitary veterans have a lot in common. There’s a sense of acceptance binding us, regardless of who we are, or what we look like. We’ve all been through a lot together, if not always literally, then certainly figuratively. But a different type of common thread is cropping up among veterans of our armed forces; one that we’d rather not share, or in fact, experience at all: A loss of benefits.

I recently attended a meeting at the Los Angeles City College Veterans Affairs

office, where I met “Ken,” a student veteran who had moved to Southern California after his honorable discharge from the Army. He quickly picked up work, but then the Great Recession hit. School was one of the only viable options available to him. He could continue to afford to pay rent with the housing allowance from the GI Bill, and further his education at Los Angeles City College at the same time. After all, that’s what the GI Bill was all about. That’s what it was designed to do; support veterans as they furthered their education.

But recent changes to the Post 9/11

Veterans Assistance Improvement Act have forced student veterans all over California to try and adapt to a new set of regulations.

Among a host of bill changes, one of the most disquieting is the elimination of “break pay.” This means that during the time when classes are not in session, no money will be paid to veteran students for their housing. A break can last two weeks between terms, or three summer months.

“When you’re in the Army, you’re told that your time in school will be paid for, that you don’t have to worry about anything while you’re in school. That’s now incorrect,” said Jose Barrientos, a second-tour Iraq war veteran and student at LACC. Why would a student’s promised housing allowance not cover “breaks” while they’re enrolled? Fiscally, it may make sense.

But realistically, to veterans attending school, it doesn’t make any sense at all, and it’s detrimental to their remaining enrolled. It may even force some to drop out.

“It’s hard now to even focus on study, because you’re worried about the summer, or the break. What are you going to do?

How are you going to pay the rent and bills,” Barrientos said.

The laceration of break pay is just the first crack in the proverbial glass wall; spreading out due in large part to the lack of academic funding at LACC, and nearly every other school in the California community college system. Prior budget slashing, and proposed future cuts are forcing schools like LACC to drop courses offered in the summer.

Not just some, but possibly all.

“I understand the reason behind the cuts, but it doesn’t change the fact that veterans rely on their GI Bill for housing and essentials. I’m lucky enough to have work study income; without it I wouldn’t be able to afford [going to] school at all,” said Fred Garza, a freshman and Navy veteran.

Without class enrollment, benefits are not paid and work-study becomes unavailable. This means that student veterans like “Ken,” Jose Barrientos, and Fred Garza, who both depend on the GI Bill for their rent and essentials, will suddenly find themselves without any source of income for the entire summer.

Something about the situation doesn’t seem right, and something needs to be changed.

There’s more to CSUDH than the classroom.

You come to CSU Dominguez Hills for an excellent education.

But once you’re here, you’ll stay for the outstanding experience. Be a part of CSUDH’s dynamic campus community. Learn more at CSUDH.EDU/FutureStudents.

With the CSUDH/Los Angeles Community College Enrollment Partnership you’ll get accurate information, guidance and tools from CSUDH and LACC counselors. Call the Los Angeles City College Transfer Center (323) 953-4000 ext. 2215 to learn more. more.

(310) 243-3696 | 1000 E. Victoria Street | Carson, CA 90747

Collegian Times 35

Tracking EOP&S by the Numbers

Students check their phones and listen to music while waiting in line at LACC’s Extended Opportunity Program and Services (EOP&S) on a sunny afternoon.

By Eun Ju Lee

The program was an outgrowth of the Civil Rights Movement, but at LACC, numbers have dipped and the program is losing steam. Statewide enrollment numbers are declining as well.

Students enrolled in LACC’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOP&S) have dropped dramatically over the last two years.

According to data released by the Student Services Programs at the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, EOP&S participants dropped almost 30 percent between spring semester of 2009 and fall of 2011 at LACC. EOP&S enrollment topped 3,067 in spring 2009 at Los Angeles City College, but decreased to a low of 1,478 during spring semester of 2010. That is more than a 50 percent drop in the number of students in the program.

In the spring of 2012, a total of 1,750 students enrolled in the EOP&S program.

Students seem satisfied with the program, but staff members who are unwilling to discuss the problem on the record say they

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According to data from the Chancellor’s office, state appropriations for EOP&S decreased 40 percent in funding between fiscal years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. Despite the funding drop, students with fewer resources say they appreciate the funding voucher and other benefits of the program.

“I love this program. It gives guidance and counseling assistance to schedule for classes,” Figueroa said. “Counselors gave me helpful tips. It makes me think of the academic work that I need to do for transfer. I did not have any problems staying in the program so far.”

According to the official website of the EOP&S program at LACC, students that participate in the program are to receive the personalized support and services including priority registration, social activities, field trips, individualized tutoring, fee waivers, registration and textbook assistance, cash grants and cap and gown purchases for graduates if funding permits.

Nursing major Kimberly Lopez, a first year student at City College, expressed satisfaction.

“They helped me plan my classes,” Lopez said. “I was able to get priority registration, financial aid and a voucher. I am happy to be in the program.”

Criminal justice major Kevin Puig said that the more he was involved in the program, the more he was able to get help with services.

“They offer field trips to universities and tutoring,” Puig said. “If you are full-time students, TRIO program will let you borrow laptop computers and calculators.”

Despite all the benefits, only 18 students will graduate from the program in spring semester 2012. Another reality students must cope with is reduced funding for textbook vouchers. They have been cut from $450 to $265 for each student per semester.

With fewer services and the implementation of stricter rules for the appeals process, the shrinking of the EOP&S program has become inevitable.

Photo By Inae Bloom

A student is considered educationally disadvantaged if their high school GPA is less than 2.50, or if the student does not have a high school diploma, or GED. If college assessment scores on math and English placement tests are below 112 and 28, they will qualify for the program.

The budgets for the EOP&S program at LACC have been slashed 45 percent from $3 million a few years ago to $2.1 million this year. Some staff members say it is more difficult to get into the program now, due in part to funding cutbacks. Others at LACC say they feel frustrated that they are no longer able to offer outreach services to recruit quality students from high schools as they did a few years ago.

Sources at the college told the Collegian that many applications at the EOP&S office sit incomplete because students experienced difficulties providing documentation, like transcripts from high schools overseas or assessment test scores.

The Collegian attempted to contact Corey Rodgers, associate dean of EOP&S, three times, but was not able to speak to him and he did not return calls.

The Community College However, all of the students that the Collegian interviewed had positive Chancellor’s Office states experiences with EOP&S, although some that the primary goal of disagree with the 12-unit requirement.

“I personally did not have difficulty to EOP&S is to encourage the get into and stay in the program,” Jaman enrollment, retention and Aktaruz, a radiology technology major, said. transfer of students.

“But, my friend from Bangladesh was not able to get a high school transcript. I was find the statistics alarming.

OK, because I brought it from my home EOP&S is a state funded program country.” whose roots go back to the 1960s Civil The California Community College Rights Movement. California Senate Bill Chancellor’s Office states that the primary 164 was introduced by State Senator Al goal of EOP&S is to encourage enrollment, Alquist in January 1969 and signed into law. retention and transfer of students. The It was created to enable “low income, program is provided to facilitate the and educationally disadvantaged students successful completion of students’ goals that are affected by language, social, and and objectives in college. economic handicaps” to obtain a college “Budget cuts have significantly education. impacted the colleges’ ability to serve The purpose of the program was and these students. The chancellor’s office is still is to provide academic support and extremely active in advocating for proper financial assistance and encouragement to funding of California Community Colleges, eligible and educationally disadvantaged including EOP&S,” wrote Paul Feist, students, according to LACC’s official web vice chancellor of communications in a page. statement to the Collegian.

Drugs, Rock ‘n’ Roll and College The Story of Bob Forrest

By Luis Rivas

Bob Forrest walks around Los Angeles City College in April reminiscing about when he went to school in the ‘80s. After a life-threatening problem with drugs and alcohol, Forrest got sober and joined Dr. Drew Pinsky on Celebrity Rehab as a drug counselor.

Photo By Luis Rivas

“I

was drinking and doing coke and meth when I was going here,” he says as he points to Los Angeles City College while walking down Heliotrope Drive.

But heroin eventually became his drug of choice. Hands down.

“You keep finding better and better drugs until you finally find the one that you’re going to throw away your life for,” he said.

Bob Forrest’s pockmarked face is a map that tracks the life of a young boy who grew up in a middle-class family out in the calm and comfort of Palm Springs and Huntington Beach, then moving to Los Angeles to attend City College, an area his literary heroes fondly wrote about. Here he abused drugs and alcohol, enjoyed success with the post-punk band Thelonious Monster and eventually died only to come back to life as a substance abuse counselor on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew Pinsky.

Forrest has died a handful of times, and overdosed several more times over. But one particular death sticks out as the worst.

“When you’ve released all of your bodily fluids, that’s when you’re really dying,” Forrest said. “I was very disillusioned because I thought I was getting it together and then it was worse than ever. That happens with the downward spiral of drugs.”

Forrest is a 51-year-old sober ex-punk who still has a tendency for going over the edge, who isn’t shy or ashamed of using expletives in every other word in his sentences. He has been in jail a handful

of times and drunkenly orchestrated an attempt to kill President George H. W. Bush. Forrest has done it all. And a lot of it started with books and drugs.

LITERATURE AND DRUGS Bukowski. Fante. Writers such as these whose fame have propelled them into last-name-only status are just a few of some of Los Angeles’ legendary resident novelists that wrote about the real life of the city, in all of its ugliness and beauty, courageously without a flinching moment of pretend or glamour. This was something that influenced Forrest as an aspiring writer and musician in his early 20s.

Literature at a young age instilled a zeal for creativity and human connection.

“Mostly, I was obsessed with books,” Forrest said. “I lived in this kind of retirement world in Palms Springs. So there was nothing to do but read. So I lived through Chandler and Bukowski. Through Bukowski I found John Fante. That whole world was where I wanted to live and why going to L.A. City College was so important because that’s where you could really go somewhere and could experience a life of the urban environment that you couldn’t [experience] in the suburbs. It was just my first experience of real life, and it was so beautiful.”

But as a young man exposed to the city’s nightlife, the sex-drugs-and-rock-nroll culture of the early ‘80s, it was only a matter of time before young Forrest got in trouble. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on the view point, money was

not a hard pressing issue.

Forrest received a regular social security check that was left to him by his late father. The only stipulation was that he enroll in college.

To supplement his income he worked at a book store across the street from City College on Vermont Avenue where the video game arcade, the women’s clinic and the newer off campus text book store now stands.

Forrest has always been an avid reader, something he attributes to his mother’s voracious appetite for books.

“My mom was a crazy reader,” Forrest said. “She reads all the time! Really horrible books like those salacious novels.

It was the ‘70s, just terrible. It was just one step above Harlequin, but she always read.

Just being around a reading mother has real influence on you.”

But once the drugs started running out, Forrest would heavily discount the books, buy them and take them back to his place.

His apartment was a virtual library. Forrest and his long-time buddy and lead singer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Anthony Keides, would start selling the books to support the drug habit.

“Every morning we would get up and get a stack of books and go sell them on Hollywood Boulevard then go buy drugs,” Forrest said. “I was selling the most important thing to me. And I couldn’t see it. I was 21-22 years old. The most precious thing to me, the only thing that mattered to me was books, literature and stories, and I’d sell it in seconds for some cocaine.”

One of the reasons, if not the most Collegian Times 37

important one, that compelled Forrest to even attended Los Angeles City College can be blamed on cult-literary-hero Charles Bukowski.

“I was a huge Bukowski fan when I was a kid,” Forrest said. “I drove up specifically to L.A., back when I was about 17, to see L.A. City College because I [had] read about it in Charles Bukowski[’s books].”

It’s ironic to say the least, that a recovering drug addict, alcoholic and counselor reads Bukowski—but Forrest has gained perspective over the years.

“Yeah, I’m a fan, but it’s funny,” Forrest said. “Once I got sober I kind of grew up and I went back and read all my favorite books when I was a kid in my 20s and you read those books with new eyes and you see kind of the immaturity, the one-sidedness and the black-and-white-world type vision that once you kind of emotionally grow up, you don’t see the world that way.”

“Do I love Bukowski?” he asks himself.

“Yes. Do I hold him in the regard I did when I was 19 and I went to L.A. City College because I loved him so much? No.” BOB THE COLLEGE STUDENT As a young boy growing up in a sheltered suburban, upper-middle-class life, Forrest was frustrated. He didn’t want any of it. Shortly after moving to Los Angeles and attending City College he

was introduced to punk bands, such as The Clash, Public Image Limited, The Weirdos and Black Flag. In addition to literature, music was something that was always inspirational to Forrest.

City College was where for the first time in his life he was able to regularly socialize with people of color and with different ethnic and national backgrounds.

“I learned that there was a world outside of the white, Republican bullshit idea of what the world is,” Forrest said.

Politics was another facet to young Forrest’s growing identity. City College was where he heard about the Salvadoran Civil War and the U.S. government’s role in supporting the Salvadoran National Guard and administration.

“We were very involved in protesting the military in El Salvador—that’s where I got inspired politically, artistically and spiritually, really—at L.A. City College,” Forrest said.

On an average day Forrest would stumble from his bed, immediately battling an intense drug-and-alcohol hangover, in his Heliotrope Drive apartment right across the street from City College, take a long shower and walk across to get coffee and soak in the early morning sun in the Quad.

Another fond memory is a particular City College psychology professor, who unfortunately is now nameless because Forrest can’t remember his name, a

consequence to drug and alcohol abuse.

The professor had a confrontational approach to education where he would challenge preconceived notions of how the world truly was or how people, particularly young and cocky college students, perceived it.

“He was teaching elementary psychology to a bunch of know-it-all students, and really showed us the folly of our thinking! I think I got a C in the class and I was really pissed off,” Forrest said.

Forrest was a good student who always did well in English classes, despite staying up late at night in the rock clubs and bars talking about Nietzsche, literature and music. But it was only a matter of time before the drugs started wearing him down.

And back in the early and mid ‘80s there wasn’t as many substance abuse counseling and programs as there are now.

“Back then there was no drug treatment you went to,” Forrest said. “You were just a f**kup! They would snag you up and throw you in Malibu and get you a leave of absence from school.”

POLITICS ON DRUGS—HOW BOB ALMOST KILLED THE PRESIDENT

38 Collegian Times

Photo Courtesy of blog.zap2it.com

Although Forrest labels himself as a liberal, his political awakening and leanings were once extreme and even radical.

He pulls no punches in how he views the country at the present.

“Here’s the thing about America I know: It’s racist. It’s homophobic. It’s overly religious.

It’s ignorant,” Forrest said.

“Nobody gives a f*ck about poor people. Nobody gives a f*ck about anybody anymore. It’s a vicious, hostile United States right now. And it’s because of the Recession. It’s because of Bush.

It’s because of Cheney. How that guy keeps living, I can’t f**king imagine. Somebody gave him a heart? I wonder if you were to ask that person if they wanted the heart to go to Dick Cheney if they would’ve been so happy about it.”

He recalls a time when he had a house in Joshua Tree and on one hot summer day with temperatures into the triple digits, he witnessed a group of demonstrators holding up signs of Obama with a Hitler moustache protesting, saying, “We want to keep our health care.”

Forrest remembers feeling anger but also sympathy.

“These are poor people,” Forrest said. “They’re so f**king stupid and hateful. And the right stirred them up with a bunch Bob Forrest (left) and Dr. Drew Pinsky (right) sit on the set of Celebrity Rehab, a reality TV show that documents celebrities with addictions during their stay in an in-patient facility in Pasadena, CA. of Jesus Freak stuff—a bunch of

Photo Courtesy of lapunkandhardcore.wordpress.com

ridiculous nonsense—and Fox News.”

Most people are concerned with the way the country is going, he says, but progressives and liberals have to pick and choose their battles strategically if they are to win white, Middle America over to their side.

Win them over with compassion, compromising and issues at their own terms, says the man that once tried to kill the president.

Forrest was arrested in 1992 for trying to kill then-President George W. H. Bush during the first Iraq War. Even as a musician in his 30s, Forrest was still very outspoken against war. During '92 he was not hopeful that those running against Bush were going to stand a chance.

He succumbed to what he saw as the last-resort: killing the president. Luckily, it didn’t get too far—with Forrest being drunk or on drugs most waking hours of the day.

“I was arrested for solicitation to kill the president,” Forrest said. “I [first] said it at Washington, D.C., at a concert. I didn’t know it was illegal to say. So I was very drunk at the time and high on drugs.”

Shortly thereafter the Secret Service started pursuing him. He says that it always struck him as unusual that he had garnered so much attention for something so lightly and drunkenly said. Why did they view him as a serious threat?

Eventually Forrest was taken to a closed-door hearing in Westwood to resolve the matter. After the judge and all lawyers were witnessed to Forrest and his obvious insanity, the pursuits stopped.

But why the initial fervor in tracking down Forrest?

After the hearing, Bob recalls, a Secret Service agent answered that very question by saying, “Well, I think the background check on you is really what got the ball rolling. It’s in your file.”

Forrest took a look at his file.

Back in his early days at City College, a curious and left wing Bob Forrest joined the Communist Party of the United States.

“And I voted my first time in 1980 for Gus Hall and Angela Davis. They knew that. The Federal Government knew that!”

Forrest said. “They thought through me making some drunken threat that the Communist Party was alive and well in America!”

Forrest truly does support radical political organizations. He is a big fan of the Black Panther Party and quotes Huey P. Newton on special occasion. Forrest

admires how the Panthers used the same repressive system to get their message out.

They were experts in getting attention and using it to showcase the issue of racism, repression, discrimination and police brutality in a direct and radical way. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. used religion as a vehicle for change and mass movement and the Black Panthers used the Constitution, specifically the Second Amendment, which gives citizens the right to keep and bear arms.

“I am an extreme liberal,” Forrest said. “But I know we live in the real world. What growing up and maturing and becoming emotionally resilient, becoming a fully realized self—what it’s called in psychology—you start to realize, you know what? Just because I would want the world to be a certain way doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to happen.”

Poster of local rock bands, including Bob Forrest’s Thelonious Monster, appearing at the famous ‘80s Stardust Ballroom in Los Angeles

ADDICTS AND ABUSERS Forrest knows perfectly well that many college students are experimenting with drugs and alcohol. City College is no exception, with the majority choosing marijuana as their drug of choice. However, Forrest is more concerned with what your father or mother is taking for pain than some pot.

“The gateway drug is no longer marijuana; it’s the pills in your mother’s medicine cabinet,” Forrest said. “The leftover Vicodin from when she hurt her knee.”

Although excess is a very real problem with virtually anything, especially drugs and alcohol, prescription drugs are now

more dangerous for young people than any other drug, more so than crystal meth, cocaine and even marijuana.

To make this case more clear, Forrest feels the need to clarify the difference between an addict and someone who is abusing drugs or alcohol.

“Most people who get into trouble with drugs and alcohol will steer themselves into a different direction,” Forrest said.

“But addicts won’t.”

According to Forrest, addicts are the ones that need counseling, a program and rehab. The reason so many young people that are over-indulging with drugs and alcohol are making it into rehab is due to the recovery industry.

“If you’re doing poor in school and you smoke weed, you meet criteria to go to rehab—if you got $50,000. To me, you don’t [meet the criteria],” Forrest said. “To me, you need to stop smoking weed for a while and get back on track in school.

Because throwing in abusers into rehab mucks up the whole f**king process. You spent most of your time [as a counselor] arguing with people about the problems, where they started.

Where 15 years ago, you didn’t have to argue.”

Addicts, Forrest goes on to explain, once in rehab are convinced of themselves that they are addicts and it’s up to that individual to try to change.

It’s incredibly hard for addicts to remain sober. Forrest knew at the age of 18 that he was an alcoholic who was looking to become a drug addict.

And why do so many people, including young people, abuse alcohol and drugs? Forrest has a theory: American’s don’t know how to drink. “[We’re] overly religious, Victorian, secretive, lying society,” Forrest said. “So the idea that a 17 year old is not allowed to have a glass of wine when, if you go to another culture, they are. They’re taught the value of alcohol, the sociability of alcohol, the purpose of alcohol. The relaxation of alcohol. Here you’re taught, ‘Don’t do it! Don’t do it, bad, bad, bad!’ And then, ‘Ok, you turned 21? Ok, do all you want! Get a beer bong!’”

Forrest, much like his current politics, is bound to present day reality.

He understands the real world and the difference between idealism and reality. He is for the decriminalization of marijuana.

There needs to be a more mature relationship with children and drugs and alcohol in the country, Forrest concludes.

The most important thing is not abstinence, but communication.

Collegian Times 39

poetry .

By Lauren Arevalo My bones are stannic; The hope of modern science Only years prior now marked by obsolescence.

I’ve minded my peas and carrots, cellophaned meals and the severance of time From clock to couch.

It is foretold in the shelves, The human fiction is in digital forms, A future calling out /In undulating tinnitus/ It recoils to me Like a siren’s Doppler In the technic age Of inhumane practices A Glaring Green

By David Stamp The city stole the pigment from my skin.

And now I fill my days with the turning rage of the gamble, slow sink-hole with coin-shaped paw marks around the brim.

Full face, parasitic smile Silent machines Still graceful husks of buildings Smashed glass and rotted food.

A silent figure hunched in and among, Touching through Sliding fingers along many objects, Objects slowly being wiped away.

Background bracing for a new wave For fresh electricity and clouds of sex.

I know you, but do I know you?

I know you but should I still know you?

I know you but our knowing is quickenedA mad, sickened friendship Of unabated claustrophobia.

Clicking you, clicking me, You there but not here.

I grew a wall, a stony buttress Built up from the onset of misgivings Passed on to me at birth In the analog fashion It will be pervaded Only by the force of age; An implosion Of myself.

I knew it in the first moment A fly dried on the sill.

The world had ended for him.

Illustration By Jose Tobar

40 Collegian Times

Time Clock

By Byron Umana-Bermudez Seconds, minutes, days and days go by Months and now years.

Where are you? Where were you? Are you there? Do you even care? I’m here waiting and waiting and waiting every moment of the day. Waiting for you; where are you? I remember waiting.

Seeing the cars go by and the faces of those people. People who aren’t you.

Then I see the children walk by holding the hands of their father so closely and…and wishing we had that, love; Instead of the rage and anger between us.

Why? Why are you so mad? Is it because I’m not what you wanted me to be. Is it because I am who I am…me I remember you never being there for me. I remember seeing my mother’s face as she begged and begged for you attentions so you can be there for me, so you can take care of me. I remember her crying when you took me away…away on the holidays. I remember seeing her just cry and cry. Cry because she wasn’t going to see her hijo open the presents for the first time, crying because the person she loves so much in the whole world, someone who she would die for was taken away from her. And you, all you did was laugh at her, at her face. Why? Did you think that was funny? Did you think I like seeing my mom cry? Huh? Answer Me! I remember memories that still haunt me to this day. Memories of calling you one day and hearing you say, “don’t call me dad, I’m not your dad…”

Daddy, Daddy I’m sorry, I’m Sorry…

Bruises, scars, pain after pain those were my seconds, minutes, and days.

Whispers Rising to Shout

By David Stamp There’s an offshoot chance that nothing happens, absolutely nothing and you’re left blinking; left with a frog in your throat … question mark in your chest and eyes exclaiming outward.

If that were to happen, would you panic and pour yourself into a cup? Would you gnash your teeth at tiny little threads? Or would you sleep? Wide-eyed sleep and fill your mouth with millions of marigolds?

If that nothing hit me over the head, if I were to die and then nothing. I would sharpen my teeth and haunt the dreams of every, crafting myself horns and wings. I would laugh, a laugh like crispy paper held close to the ear. Laugh, until the sun shouting shadows, threw me and God onto a pyre, mixing our hair and bone and fevered cries with a long metal stick.

But still I would laugh and laugh.

Birth-life-death

By David Tapia Loud crying like nails screeching on a chalk board.

As the light glares into the unused eyes.

Like the sun’s rays in the morning.

A new world of adventures are bound to be opened life is quick and also short.

It gets worse with no support.

So open your arms to your faith and hope for the best.

Because life doesn’t last forever.

Collegian Times 41

Mating 101

Find out what LACC students look for in a partner. The Collegian Times went face to face with various students across the campus to find out what they think. Psychologists say that people make these choices instinctively.

By Anna Kamalyan

What do you like in a male?

[13% Long hair 87% Short hair] [89% Taller than you 11% Shorter than you] [25% Piercings 75% None] [96% Dark hair 4% Light hair] [26% Spicy scent 74% Fresh scent] [86% Adam's apple 14% Front gap tooth] [17% Submissive 83% Dominant]

What do you like in a female?

[82% Long hair or 18% Short hair] [16% Taller than you or 84% Shorter than you] [34% Tattoos or 66% None] [40% Piercings or 60% None] [20% Blonde or 80% Brunette] [27% Floral scent or 73% Fresh scent] [92% Feminine or 8% Tomboy]

Males 44% Tattoos 56% No Tattoos 38%Sensitive 62% Tough 60% Shaved face 40% 5 o’clock shadow

42 Collegian Times

professor of psychology at LACC, and licensed marriage and family therapist. “If we were to go back 10,000 years ago or 50,000 years ago in human evolution or primate evolution, if you’re a female it would make sense to choose a partner who was dominant but not dominant, in a sense of controlling you, but maybe dominant in terms of going after resources, protection, these kinds of things. And it would makes sense because it would be an advantage for that mate to do that.”

Other professors also explained various reasons as to why people prefer a dominant man.

“If I am a woman who is strictly concerned with the health, vitality, and future survival of my offspring, I would want a partner whose genetic material would enhance mine to increase survival and success of my genetic line,” said Dr. April L. Pavlik, a psychology professor at LACC. “Another thought is that men who are taller tend to have higher status in groups, especially at the time of puberty.

Think about it, boys who matured earlier than their classmates were taller moving into more dominant roles in social groups. These dominant males with the trait of “tall” could be more desired due to their status in the group.

There are a few things to think about.”

There is evidence that suggests some of the stereotypes about what men and women prefer in a mate are true. In a worldwide mating preference survey, women chose men with ‘resources and social status,’ while men chose women with attractive features suggesting ‘youth and reproductive potential,’ according to “Exploring Psychology” by David G. Myers.

“I choose submissive because I think it would be easier for us to understand each other,” said Jennifer Mendoza, a nursing major at City College. “He won’t be that pushy and

we will have a better connection to come to an agreement.”

A whopping 82 percent of students favored women with long hair, while 18 percent chose short. According to experts, the reason that most students prefer women with long hair is, because it represents a healthy person.

Instinctively one wants to procreate with a healthy mate.

“From biblical references, Samson’s head of hair was a sign of his strength, said Mary Andres, associate professor of clinical education at USC Rossier School of Education and licensed clinical psychologist. “If we look at advertising, women’s hair products and shine are a sign of health and wellbeing.

When one is ailing or aging, their hair thins out and loses its shine.”

There are reasons for individual’s preferences in partners. Evolutionary psychology explains why we find certain qualities attractive, according to officials.

“Evolutionary psychology argues that some of our behaviors are related to behaviors of our ancestors, that maybe our ancestors behaved a certain way because it was an advantage for them,” Sedghi said. “And if you buy into that idea, those behaviors are passed down in essence genetically over time so that you and I still possess some of those traits that our ancestors might have possessed.”

Professor Sedghi accurately predicted the results of each question of the survey, he says, by applying evolutionary psychology.

It is a theory that fuses behaviors of ancestors to modern time. These behaviors develop into instincts that every human carries.

People no longer need to think consciously about some of their behaviors, because they come naturally.

Illustrations by Billy Monroe

What do Los Angeles City College students prefer: a tall, slender physique with dark hair or a short, curvier figure with fair hair? Who lives for a muscular and active man or one that is not so chiseled? Outgoing and bubbly or reserved and timid?

More than 100 students at LACC took an attraction survey in which they were asked to choose the physical qualities and personality traits that appealed to them most in a man or a woman.

After collecting and analyzing the data, the Collegian Times spoke with psychologists who interpreted the results. They said that students’ preferences today are dictated by what their ancestors preferred thousands of years ago.

Sixty-four percent of students surveyed at LACC wanted a submissive woman, while 36 percent preferred a dominant woman.

On the other hand, 83 percent of students preferred a dominant man, while 17 percent wanted a submissive one.

Both female and male students who prefer a male companion, chose a dominant one.

Some of the students elaborated on their preferences.

“Typically I am attracted to dominance in a long-term partner. The characteristics that mostly appeal to me [are] a sense of security, protection and a higher value of success,” said Rebecca Breitburg, a theatre arts major at LACC. “However, the paradox is, I don’t like taking orders from a man.”

It took students less than five seconds to pick a characteristic they prefer in a mate.

Experts explained that people instinctively choose their partners. They also explained why the results were easy to predict.

“For an evolutionary psychologist it makes complete sense,” said David Sedghi, assistant

Females 54% Attractive eyes 46% Beautiful smile 30% Thin 70% Curvy 64% Submissive 36% Dominant

TO BE OR NOT TO BE SAFE? THAT IS THE QUESTION

By Gerard Cole Let’s be real for a second. Condoms are a bit annoying, but definitely necessary.

As a 21-year-old sexually active bisexual male, I find that condoms are even more important. I won’t say that I’ve used a condom with every sexual partner I’ve been with, or even that I haven’t encountered a pregnancy scare or two. But, I’ve always found it interesting that regardless of gender or sexuality, everyone has a different viewpoint on how important being safe really is as well as on how many people actually use condoms.

Before I wrote my column, I asked some of my closest friends and students around campus some general questions about condoms: »» Do you use them? »» How long do you have to be with someone to not use a condom? »» Favorite brand of condoms? »» Why don’t you use condoms, if you do not?

For the most part, I got the same answers from all the gentlemen. “I don’t use them as much as I should.” “It’s usually just how I feel about where the other person’s been.” “I don’t use them purely because they make sex less enjoyable.”

Trojan Ecstasy condoms seemed to be the guy’s favorite. I’m more of a Trojan Fire and Ice type of guy myself, but I always recommend the pleasure pack, which includes the crème de la crème.

I asked the ladies the same questions, along with “Do you buy condoms or do you expect the males to have one?”

For the first set of questions, I encountered an array of answers, from “I practice unsafe sex with my boyfriends but not with a random stranger,” to the shocking “I’ve never used a condom, because I’m on birth control.”

Although the majority of the ladies also said that they didn’t have a preference for a particular brand, I do want to say that I heard good things about Trojan Twisted Pleasure condoms.

When talking about how long they would be with someone before they decided to not use a condom, the women gave varied responses. Everything from, “I expect them to have some if we’re at their place but not on them, because that plays with the chance of rips,” to “I’ll buy condoms if I’m frequently having sex,” to “I’ve never bought a condom before.”

Interestingly enough, two people actually said that they would only stop using a condom if there was another form of birth control. I think that it is really important for people, especially our generation, to know that it isn’t only about STDs—what about unplanned pregnancy?

Maybe it’s just me, but at my age I’m not ready to have a kid and I doubt many of us really are. So why do we take that risk? Are those 15 to 25 minutes really worth the next 18 years of your life? Not for me.

Unless you’re in a committed relationship and you know that you are absolutely ready to make a family, you should not have unprotected sex. With that being said, STDs are something to be worried about, but it is not the only surprise that can come from having sex.

You never know someone’s complete sexual history and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Let’s be real again. Will we get drunk and make a careless mistake? Yes. But don’t let that one summer fling determine the rest of your life. As hard as it is (that’s what she said) none of us, including myself, should be having unprotected sex until we’re ready for the consequences of our actions.

The Collegian staff discussed sexual preferences, fetishes

and fantasies. Scan the code below to join in on the conversation.

Collegian Times 43

HOROSCOPES

44 Collegian Times

ARIES: Some think you are acting like a baby right now, and someone older will help you through an unforeseen problem in June. Don’t be surprised if taking the lead in a work relationship helps get you that promotion you really deserve. Be optimistic. No one likes a ram that has no initiative. In late May, the planet Venus is retrograde. Your love life can go south quickly.

Keep your head up and your heart will follow.

The sun goes into Libra midsummer changing your love life at the beginning of fall. This may bring a stronger commitment from a loved one and put your mind at ease.

TAURUS: Happy Belated Birthday. You have a lot going for you. Give more and don’t try so hard to make everyone like you. Money may be tight throughout May but just after your birthday ends, June brings Jupiter and with that planet comes success, money and an unexpected gain financially. Hang onto your money, there is a summer love coming your way. Be nice to your nearest and dearest, they have feelings too. Mercury will be there to support you with positive mental energy through summertime into fall. This will help you accomplish any plans you might have to up your game in career situations.

GEMINI: Be careful in your love life through May. It's easy to be infatuated with anyone with your libido. Just because you think they are the right choice doesn’t mean they are. Venus may blind you but keep those senses sharp, she is retrograde in June. Watch out for those signals you tend to try and ignore, they do matter just as much as your reflection on your birthday. You have made strides in your career and this is just the beginning. Stay the course and don’t get distracted. In July, Saturn is going to be directly in your 1st house of self. You will need to really think before you act this summer. Fall brings tidings of love and romantic entanglements.

CANCER: This is a great time for you to call that old buddy of yours and go out and have fun.

The sun is in your 11th house bringing energy into your life that makes you want to celebrate.

People will take to you quickly, if you are single you should go mingle. It could change your perspective. You just passed a blockade and the sun is shining on you. Go for a jog, clean up your house and prepare for a great summer.

Careful with your mouth in July. Something you say could have you looking for a new job by fall. Avoid gossiping. Easy for you right? Right.

LEO: You have worked so hard lately. Toward the end of May, there will be a lot of good things falling into place as Jupiter is conjunct with the Sun. You may feel like life is dealing you some harsh blows in your workplace in the beginning of June, but just stick it out. You aren’t the quitting type, and this summer you will get that advance in your career that you have been waiting for. Don’t get too egotistical about it. With gloating comes bloating in the fall.

Illustrations by David Stamp

HOROSC OPESHO ROSCOP ESHORO SCOPES HOROSC OPESHO ROSCOP ESHORO SCOPES HOROSC OPESHO ROSCOP

VIRGO: Concentrate on the larger picture. The devil is in the details and he’s ready to strike you down. Rise above it! You are not a conventional thinker, but when has being conventional ever been your forte? A sexual endeavor is not always the way to relax your busy, busy mind.

A Taurus will lead you to a very important resource. Don’t sign anything you receive in early June. It’s a bad idea. The Sun and Mars will be in your 1st house in July causing you to think a lot about finances and getting a better job.

What's wrong with the one you have? Enjoy the fall as it brings warmth and a close friend you have been distant from comes to warm your heart even more.

LIBRA: You have had a hard time with a loved one lately. Venus is in your 8th house and will be causing you some grief for the next month, but remember that these moment can only lead to better ones. Take time to connect with your family, they can support you in this time more than any intoxicant ever could. Steer clear. If you are led to the drink, you might sink. Mars will be causing you to have some low energy moments through July into August. Venus is in the 1st house mid-summer, this may bring chances of romance. That should help you with the laziness summer might be bringing this year.

SCORPIO: Focus on that relationship that has intrigued you like no other before. The sun is shining brightly on your 7th house. So much

can happen for you if you stop to listen and don’t shoot off your mouth too much. Mercury is in your 8th house. You are ultra sharp and your senses are RIGHT, so believe them. You are picking up on things before others. Take the lead and show them the way without the usual fanfare. In July, Venus brings the temptation of a love interest ... Big surprise, right? Follow your intuition into the fall. It will guide you in the right direction.

SAGITTARIUS: You are so very social, aren’t you?

This is a good time for that so go out and make some new friends. You will be surprised how many people take to you. You should go out and have fun but don’t forget to call your family every once in a while. The social butterfly often forgets where they came from. Remember because time is precious and goes fast. Venus is retrograde so maybe being alone isn’t such a bad thing sometimes too. July brings happiness to a new level as the Sun and Mars line up with your 11th house creating dreams of a grand future ahead of you. You can materialize whatever you want. Keep dreaming.

CAPRICORN: It's hard to get you to break out of your work mode lately. Be an extrovert; it could free you from your very rigid mindset lately. Go outside and try to do something different. It may lead to some chance fun! Friends pop up where you least expect them, but make sure not to tell them too much. A friend could tell your secret to someone you admire. Maybe you should express how you feel directly instead.

With July comes a planetary jolt of energy from Jupiter, Mercury and Venus. It could be a great month for you financially. Don’t spend all your money too quickly. When fall rolls around, Neptune may be causing some surprises. We all like surprises when they are in our favor. Don’t worry, they will be in yours.

AQUARIUS: You have been so ready to jump at a new investment when an old one is about to pay off. This is a good time for you to check out some real estate with your love. Why not make the jump? You are so busy overthinking your next move that you don’t see how perfect the timing is for it. Don’t miss the boat … you will not be able to get on late. A Gemini will teach you an unexpected lesson in patience. In July, Jupiter enters your 7th house. You will expect a lot from someone who is close to you. As the summer closes, a road trip would be a good idea for you to clear your mind.

PISCES: Finances may have been going quite well for you, but June is going to be a tight month. Focus on your family and friends and it will be easy to deal with. Just because you are cash poor doesn’t mean you aren’t rich in other ways. The days may be long but the nights make it worth it. You are thinking of everyone else but yourself and it's time to focus on yourself for awhile. You are treasured by those around you. In July, the Sun and Mars enter your 7th house (the relationship house).

Committed relationships are what will pull you through. Don’t worry, finances will be headed in the right direction at the end of summer into fall. Say thanks to Venus and Mercury for the support.

Collegian Times 45

Spring 2012 Final Exam Schedule TIME

DAY Tuesday May

29

7:00-9:00 a.m.

31

Friday December

1

Saturday December

2

Monday December

4

2:30-4:30 p.m.

5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Classes starting between 1:00 – 2:55 p.m. Tue/ Thurs or starting between 1:00-3:15 p.m. Tuesday only

Classes starting between 1:00 – 2:55 p.m. Tue/ Thurs or starting between 1:00-3:15 p.m. Tuesday only

Classes starting between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tue/Thur or Tuesday only

Mon/Wed, Wed/Fri, or starting between 7:00-8:55 a.m.

Wednesday only

Classes starting between 9:00 – 9:55 a.m. . MTWTh, Mon/ Wed, Wed./Fri, or starting between 9:00-10:55 a.m. Wednesday only

Classes starting between 12:00 – 12:55 p.m. MTWTh, Mon/Wed, Wed./Fri, or starting between 11:00 a.m.-12:55 p.m.

Wednesday only

Classes starting between 1:00 – 2:55 p.m. Wed./Fri, or starting between 1:00-3:15 p.m.

Wednesday only

Classes starting between 5:00-5:55 Mon/Wed or Wed Fri, or 3:20 – 5:55 p.m.

Wednesday only

Classes starting between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wed/Fri or Wednesday only

Classes starting between 8:00 – 8:55 a.m. Tue/ Thurs, or starting between 7:00-8:55 a.m. Thursday only

Classes starting between 9:00 – 9:55 a.m Tue/Thurs, or starting between 9:00-10:55 a.m.

Thursday only

Classes starting between 12:00 – 12:55 p.m. Tue/Thurs, or starting between 11:00 a.m.-12:55 p.m.

Thursday only

Classes starting between 1:00-3:15 p.m.

Thursday only

Classes starting between 5:00-5:55 Tue/Thurs or 3:20 – 5:55 p.m.

Thursday only

Classes starting between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday only

Classes starting between 7:00 – 7:55 a.m. Wed/Fri or starting between 7:00 – 8:55 a.m. Fri/ Sat or Friday only

Classes starting between 10:00 – 10:55 a.m. Wed/Fri or starting between 9:00 – 11:55 a.m Fri/ Sat or Friday only

Classes starting between 11:00 – 11:55 p.m.

Wed/Fri or starting between 12:00 – 2:55 p.m. Fri/ Sat or Friday only

Classes starting between 1:00 – 2:55 p.m. Fri/Sat, or starting between 3:00 – 4:55 p.m.

Fri/Sat or Friday only

Classes starting between 5:00 – 5:55 p.m. Fri/Sat or Friday only

Classes starting between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Fri/Sat or Friday only

Classes starting between 7:00 – 8:55 a.m.

Saturday only

Classes starting between 9:00 – 11:55 a.m Saturday only

Classes starting between 12:00 – 2:55 p.m.

Saturday only

Classes starting between 3:00 – 4:55 p.m.

Saturday only

Classes starting between 5:00 – 6:55 p.m.

Saturday only

No exams scheduled

Classes starting between 7:00 – 7:55 a.m. MTWTh, or Mon/Wed, or starting between 7:00-8:55 a.m.

Monday only

Classes starting between 10:00 – 10:55 a.m. MTWTh, or Mon/Wed, or starting between 9:00-10:55 a.m.

Monday only

Classes starting between 11:00 – 11:55 p.m..

MTWTh, Mon/Wed, or starting between 11:00 a.m.-12:55 p.m. Monday only

Classes starting between 1:00 – 2:55 p.m.. MTWTh, Mon/Wed, or starting between 1:00-3:15 p.m.

Monday only

Classes starting between 3:20-4:55 MTWTh, or Mon/ Wed, 3:20 – 4:55 p.m. or 3:20-5:55 Monday only

Classes starting between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. MTWTh, or Mon/Wed, or Monday only

Please note: »» Each examination is scheduled for two hours. Final exams for short-term classes shall be administered during the final two hours of the last class period. »» Every instructor is required to give a final examination following the schedule above.

Deviations from the final exam schedule ARE NOT PERMITTED because of the potential conflict within students’ schedules. If students indicate that a conflict is occurring, instructors are advised to contact their supervising dean immediately. »» Every student is required to take a final examination. »» Final examinations are held in the room in which the class is regularly scheduled. »» In case of a conflict, please consult your instructor.

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46 Collegian Times

7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Classes starting between 11:00 – 11:55 p.m. Tue/Thurs or starting between 11:00 a.m.-12:55 p.m.

Tuesday only

Classes starting

Thursday December

12:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Classes starting between 10:00 – 10:55 a.m. Tue/Thurs or starting between 9:00-10:55 a.m.

Tuesday only

Classes starting between 7:00 – 7:55 a.m. Tue/ Thurs or starting between 7:00-8:55 a.m. Tuesday only

Wednesday between 8:00 – December 8:55 a.m. MTWTh,

30

9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, May 29 - Monday, June 4, 2012

Thoughts on the End of Times

By Josefina Nuñez Astrologers around the world believe there is a possibility that our lives could end within a few months.

The date is Dec. 21, 2012. I highly doubt this will happen. There is no way of telling the future. No once can predict what will happen next month, next week or even tomorrow.

The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15:52, “In a moment faster than an eye can blink, at the second of the last trumpet. Indeed, that trumpet will sound, and then the dead will be raised never to decay, and we will be changed.”

You might not believe in God or anything at all, but the truth is, anything can lead to the end of the human race. Global warming, changes in climate, earthquakes, nuclear threats and even volcanoes can threaten our existence.

There has been a lot of speculation about 2012 being the end of time—the final year. Some call it doomsday and there is plenty of media attention, including a movie about 2012.

This year marks the end of a 5,125-year cycle of the Mayan calendar, which is called the Great Cycle or the 13 b'ak'tun Cycle. At the end of the cycle, humanity is said to reach the next stage. It is a continuous cycle of birth to death to rebirth. Some believers anticipate natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis and floods.

Let’s face it: Humans themselves can create their own near destruction through social, economic, chemical or nuclear warfare. I am skeptical about the end of the world drama. We can leave the earth at any time without warning. The most important thing is to realize that you are here for a special purpose. Find it and never settle for less.

Collegian Times 47