The Corsair Fall 2024 - Issue 4

November 8, 2024 | Volume 127 Issue 4 | Santa Monica College

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Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Wolf Managing Editor Sophia DiDio Photo Editor Jake Crandall Design Editor Alexander Albao Copy Editors Phoebe Huss Katie Easterson Arts & Culture Editor Liz Corona News Editor Eva Love Jopanda Multimedia Editor Tarelle Butts Opinion Editor Isabel Lopez Luna Social Media Editor Alexandra Gorgij Sports Editor Adriana Brady Digital Editor Karen Lopez Newsletter Editor Antionee Jones

Corsair Staff Mary Funsten, Rebecca Villagracia, Alexander Lopez, David Rivera, Carmen Talavera, Gregory Hawthorne, Diego Kersh, Fernando Herrera, Jeffrey Berrios, Adriana Brady, Jenitcy Franco, Amelie Galzy, Jamie Garcia, Matthew Gonzalez-Valenzuela, Abiel Keli, Lilian Le, Isaac Lee, Catherine Lighton, Denisse Lopez, Brianna Minor, Jenna Tibby, Genesis Avila, Karina Movsesova, Isabel Lopez Luna, Zephira Marquez Franco, Karina Movsesova, Liam Rush, Macy Vargas, Chrissy Washington

Faculty Advisors Sharyn Obsatz Journalism Advisor Gerard Burkhart Photo Advisor Samantha Nuñez Social Media Advisor

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Front: Kamala Harris gives her final campaign speech on election eve. Harris spoke about not going back, protecting reproductive rights, and creating an opportunity economy. She said “I am not looking to score political points. I am looking to make progress. I pledge to listen to those who will be impacted by the decisions I make. And we are not going back.” in Philadelphia, PA. Monday, Nov 4. (Lex Lopez | The Corsair)

Back: Dodgers players and fans celebrate during the Dodgers World Series Championship parade on Fri., Nov. 1, 2024 on Spring Street in front of Los Angeles City Hall in Los Angeles, Calif. (Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Truth Conductor conducts truth outside of the White House in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, November 5th (Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

Turn the Page With every presidential election comes lots of division and disagreement. If there’s one thing that every American can agree on during election season, it’s that the other half of the country is dumber than a bag of bricks. Coincidentally, on Tuesday night I found myself locked into college hoops rather than the electoral college, so if you’re looking for the hard-hitting election coverage that The Corsair is known for, turn to page four.

Election Day 2024 was my first as a resident of Los Angeles after moving here from Michigan in the summer of 2021. When I go home, it’s almost like visiting another planet, and the stark contrast between life in the Midwest and here in California has not been clearer than during the last few months.

People in both places take what they see on the news or social media and use it to paint such an absurdly hilarious caricature of each other. Los Angeles has its issues, certainly, but it is a far cry from the dystopian hellscape some of my family and friends believe it to be. Conversely, the Midwest is not entirely populated with amorphous, brainless blobs (though you can find them if you know where to look).

No matter where you go in Los Angeles, there’s constantly something happening, something to do or see. The city tends to become the center of the universe, the pulsing light and noise drowning out the rest of the world. When in Michigan, I’m struck with how much slower everything feels, as if the whole state is coated in molasses.

America is a massive country, bridging two oceans and containing just about every biome on Earth. I didn’t fully grasp that until I drove through it during my move to Los Angeles and it’s easy to forget that inside the sun-soaked bubble of Southern California. Throughout the different regions are different groups of people, who all believe different things. The one thing that we can actually agree on is that America is our home and we should leave it better than we’ve found it.

Jeremy Wolf Editor-in-Chief

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A crowd of people leaving Howard University after watching Kamala Harris’ concession speech on Howard Yard in The United States Capitol, Washington D.C. on Wednesday, Nov 6, 2024. (Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

Time to Roll Up Our Sleeves Photojournalist | Lex Lopez

Vice President Kamala Harris formally conceded the 2024 presidential election, acknowledging her loss to presidentelect Donald J. Trump on Wednesday in an emotionally driven speech that urged her supporters to continue fighting for democracy and freedom. Harris gave her final presidential campaign speech at Howard University, her alma mater in Washington, DC. Harris emphasized the importance of accepting the results of the election as a “fundamental principle of American democracy.” Harris touted her allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, her conscience, and to God as the reasons she is “here to say: Harris spoke from the Howard Yard where, less than a day beforehand, she and her volunteers expected to speak in celebration of a victory. However, at an

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“While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign.” election night watch party around 1 a.m., a campaign staffer spoke to a now-somber crowd and announced Harris would no longer appear to speak. At 1:21 a.m., Decision Desk HQ and Fox News projected Trump winning Pennsylvania, getting him 270 electoral votes and making him president-elect.

Standing in the line to enter the venue, the mood was somber and mostly quiet, a stark difference from the energy and excitement that the audience described at her rally in Philadelphia just 48 hours

before. The crowd was mostly composed of Howard students and Harris volunteers, who expressed a range of emotions, from confusion and anger to fear and hope.

As she spoke, audible sniffles and visible tears were shed. Audience members told The Corsair that a feeling of hopelessness washed over them the previous night. One supporter, asking not to be named, said they were “struggling to wrap their head around the magnitude of our loss.”

Harris addressed this feeling of hopelessness in her speech by saying Wexpanding on the phrase “When we fight, we win”, that she’d repeated along the campaign trail. The future Harris described fighting for was one that protects women’s rights, protects streets and school children from gun violence, and protects fairness, equality and opportunity for all. Harris said,

A crowd of people leaving Howard University after watching Kamala Harris’ concession speech on Howard Yard in The United States Capitol, Washington D.C. on Wednesday, Nov 6, 2024. (Photos

by Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

“We did it with the knowledge that we all have so much more in common than what separates us.” “that is a fight I will never give up.”

Harris continued to encourage her supporters, saying, “Do not despair. This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves. This is a time to organize, to mobilize and to stay engaged for the sake of freedom and justice and the future that we all know we can build together.”

The speech marked the end of her historic candidacy, an unprecedented 107day campaign after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race. Harris thanked her supporters, volunteers, and Tim Walz for “building community and building coalitions,

A crowd of people leaving Howard University after watching Kamala Harris’ concession speech on Howard Yard in The United States Capitol, Washington D.C. on Wednesday, Nov 6, 2024.

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bring people together from every walk of life and background, united by love of [their] country.” Harris continued, saying “We did it with the knowledge that we all have so much more in common than what separates us.”

Ikram Mohamed, a student at Howard University, said it’s “obviously sad.

This meant so much more than woman as president.” She continued explaining her sadness surrounding the results of the election, then explained the hope she felt after hearing Harris speak. Mohamed continued by saying Harris “opened so many stories, for all women, for all women of color around the nation.” Nashwa Seliman, another Howard student, also said “We are still up, period.”

To end her speech Harris cited an old adage, “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”

Many attendees spoke about how they fear a dark time is ahead of the nation.

Those feelings physically manifested as she walked offstage and people began to leave. Aside from Beyonce’s “Freedom” playing, the walk out of Howard yard was mostly silent, with the occasional sniffle or “its alright” to comfort those who were crying. However, as crowds left, everyone’s eyes turned to an elderly woman walking among the crowd. As everyone was somber she was the only one who danced and smiled.

Earlier Wednesday, both President Biden and Vice President Harris called Trump to congratulate him and concede the race. The White House said they promise to fully help Trump’s team with its transition and engage in a peaceful transfer of power. When Harris mentioned Trump the crowd booed, but as she continued, they transitioned to applause.

Harris’ speech marked the end of her unprecedented campaign and historic election cycle.

A crowd of people leaving Howard University after watching Kamala Harris’ concession speech on Howard Yard in The United States Capitol, Washington D.C. on Wednesday, Nov 6, 2024. (Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

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The Final Rally Kamala Harris' 171-day campaign for president of the United States ended with a final rally at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Pennsylvania on Monday, Nov. 4. Harris took over the Democratic party ticket for president late in the campaign trail after Joe Biden dropped out of the race on July 21.

Photo Editor| Jake Crandall Kamala Harris held her final rally in Philadelphia at the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Monday, Nov. 4, with star-studded celebrity endorsements from the likes of Oprah to Lady Gaga and a message of unity and putting country over party. Philadelphia has been one of the heavily campaigned states in this election by both candidates, being a major milestone of success in the electoral college. Donald Trump finished his campaign with a rally in North Carolina, before traveling to Reading and Pittsburgh in Philadelphia, and a final rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan to close out his campaign.

The line began stretching hours before doors opened around 4 p.m., with the gates and security at 22nd Street and the line stretching back to Logan Square, meeting a crowd that reached 30,000 people. A small group of Party for Socialism and Liberation protesters arrived outside a side entrance protesting the BidenHarris administration’s handling of the war in Gaza and calling Harris’s response genocidal, with signs that said “No votes for Genocide.”

Cassidy Durango Milton Willy Podell, known as DJ Cassidy, acted as master of ceremonies, introducing the guest speakers throughout the night and playing music to keep the crowd energized. Ricky Martin; the Roots; will.i.am, former member of the Black Eyed Peas; and Lady Gaga performed during the night. Philadelphia mayor Cherelle Parker opened the event by emphasizing the importance of winning Pennsylvania to secure the White House.

She went on to state, “The eyes of the world are on our great Commonwealth and on our great city of Philadelphia. This is the birthplace of democracy.” Then, Pennsylvania senator Bob Casey delivered a speech that roused the crowd, stating, “All the work that’s being done, all the doors being knocked on -- it’s because of your work. And we appreciate that commitment to our country at this critical time.”

Throughout the night, the Philadelphia rally would virtually display

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Kamala Harris gives her final campaign speech on election eve. Harris spoke about not going back, protecting reproductive rights, and creating an opportunity economy. She said “I am not looking to score political points. I am looking to make progress.

I pledge to listen to those who will be impacted by the decisions I make. And we are not going back.” in Philadelphia, PA. Monday, Nov 4. Lex Lopez The Corsair.

Kamala Harris gives her final campaign speech on election eve. Harris spoke about not going back, protecting reproductive rights, and creating an opportunity economy. She said “I am not looking to score political points. I am looking to make progress. I pledge to listen to those who will be impacted by the decisions I make. And we are not going back.” in Philadelphia, PA. Monday, Nov 4. Lex Lopez The Corsair.

“All the work that’s being done, all the doors being knocked on -- it’s because of your work. And we appreciate that commitment to our country at this critical time.” other Harris rally speakers and performers from across the United States, live on stage. Notable speakers included Harris’ runningmate Tim Walz, who spoke from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He thanked the crowd for their support, stating, “You showed up here tonight because you love America. Thank you.” He emphasized the importance of the election and how its impact will shape the future of America in a new way under the leadership of Harris.

“What an incredible journey the last 107 days have been. Look at the movement Kamala has built in that short amount of time. Now imagine what she will do in four years,” Walz stated, reflecting on the campaign before the crowd erupted in cheers. He then went on to stress how Harris is here to serve and stand up for

the people of America, and work across party lines.

Ending his speech, Mr. Walz emphasized the idea that “we are not going back” before asking the crowd, “they are going to wonder, what did you do during that election when you protected the American experiment? When the rule of law held? When the Constitution was the law of the land? When dictators and division and darkness were thrown out, and unity and hope, and a new way forward are in?” He answered his own question by stating, “Every damn thing I could,” which the crowd responded to with cheers and applause. Walz called on voters with, “Wisconsin, win this thing for America.”

Some people in the crowd began to voice frustrations at Harris’ late arrival, many standing in place for hours to keep

their view of the vice president, with at least one person collapsing in the crowd before she took the stage. Some left early, dismayed by the presidential candidate’s delay.

The Governor of Philadelphia, Josh Shapiro, took to the stage announcing he was there to “advance the cause of real freedom and to get shit done.” He promised that Harris would fight for the crowd’s rights and freedom, drawing on Philadelphia’s history of being the first state in the Revolutionary War to declare independence and fight for America’s freedom. Gov. Shapiro spoke on America’s history of rising up for justice and progress, calling on Americans to continue that fight by voting for Harris.

After Shapiro spoke, Fat Joe, a Latino rapper, spoke to the audience because he

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A Philadelphia police officer watches Mayor of Philadelphia Cherelle L. Parker speak at Kamala Harris’s final rally held on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum, in Philadelphia PA, on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. (Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

“heard that they needed a Puerto Rican in Philly and was so happy to come out here and represent Puerto Ricans.” Fat Joe said, “it’s all about pride.” He talked about the times when Trump belittled the Latino population and their pride. He spoke about when Trump called Mexicans “rapists and drug dealers,” “threw paper towels as if they were basketballs” to Puerto Ricans after Hurricane Maria, and “told my Haitian brothers and sisters that they eat cats and dogs.”

Oprah was the final speaker before Harris. She was joined on stage by 10 first-time youth voters from Philadelphia.

Speaking to Phoenix, one of the firsttime voters, Oprah asked what led her to vote for Harris. Phoenix answered by stating, “Women’s reproductive rights and education equality are what led me to cast my ballot for her.” Another first-time voter, Eddie, spoke on his reasons for voting for Harris, citing that as an African American, it was an honor to exercise his right to vote which his ancestors fought for. He felt he had an opportunity to be a leader and do what’s right. He ended his statement by saying “Go Kamala,” raising his fist in the air.

Oprah thanked the crowd for showing up and encouraged the crowd to go vote. She referred to the famous John F. Kennedy quote, “Ask not what your country

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can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” This brought her to call on the crowd to vote for Harris to fight abortion bans, and for civil rights. Speaking to people who decided not to vote, she stated, “We do not get to sit this one out. If we do not show up tomorrow, it is entirely possible that we will not have the opportunity to ever

“we see our fellow Americans not as an enemy but as a neighbor,” cast a ballot again.” Oprah later went on to state, “We are voting for healing over hate.”

Oprah then introduced Vice President Harris as they walked on stage together, and the song Freedom by Beyoncé played. The speech began around 11 p.m., when Harris hyped the crowd up asking, “Are we ready to vote? Are we ready to win?” In front of the famous museum steps, she illuded herself as an underdog and drew on the symbolism of the movie “Rocky,” before dubbing this election the most consequential of our lifetimes and calling for a new generation of leadership in America, namely herself.

Harris called on the crowd to help finish the race strong, and stated, “This could be one of the closest races in history.

Every single vote matters.” She spoke on the importance of having your voice heard and encouraged dialogs with other voters to express why they are supporting her, expressing that Pennsylvania will determine the election. She emphasized there is still hard work to be done in the next 24 hours, but stated, “We will win,” spurring the crowd to chant the phrase back. She went on to speak about how the last decade of politics has been driven by fear and division, and how America is ready for a fresh start in which “we see our fellow Americans not as an enemy but as a neighbor,” promising to listen to her opposition and even give them a seat at the table.

Promising to keep fighting for Americans’ rights, Harris stated she plans to look at the list of the people’s needs that aren’t stewing on lists of her opponents, including cutting the cost of living, banning corporate price-gouging on groceries, making housing and childcare more affordable, cutting taxes for workers and small business, fighting gun violence, protecting reproductive rights, and lowering health care costs. She made a promise to “put country over party.” Addressing the crowd and repeating a popular campaign slogan, Harris ended her speech by

Joseph Antonio Cartagena a Latino known as the rapper Fat Joe, speaks the crowd of 30,000 attendees at Kamala Harris’s final rally on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum, in Philadelphia PA, on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, on the problematic behavior and statements Trump has made toward the Latino community.

(Left Photo) A member of the media waits to film Kamala Harris’s final rally at the Philadelphia Art Museum, in Philadelphia PA, on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024.

(Right Photo)Cassidy Durango Milton Willy Podell, known as DJ Cassidy, acted as master of ceremonies, at Kamala Harris’s final rally held on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum, in Philadelphia PA, on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024.

(Photos by Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

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stating, “When we fight, we win.” She held her hand high before embracing her husband Douglas Emhoff, turning to the crowd waving, and basking in the cheers of her 30,000 supporters as she walked offstage.

Abigail Valery, a first-time voter and college student from St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, spoke on her excitement about voting for Harris and what it meant to be voting for a Black woman president, stating that people “have voted for different people in all these different elections, and this one is just really powerful, because we have a really strong contender, and Kamala Harris, I’m really happy about it.”

When asked for her experience of what the rally was like, Valery stated, “I just feel so empowered just being at this rally and being able to be around like-minded people. It just feels so awesome being able to be connected to different people, like, from around here, from different places who are voting in this election.”

When asked what she was thinking about, going into election day, Ms. Valery stated, “I’m a little scared to go to the polls for the first time. I’m a little anxious, but I’m hopeful for a Kamala win. I’m hopeful for the future of freedom for women, freedom for people of color, freedom for everyone.

So that’s what I’m hopeful for. I’m going in there. I’m going to put in my votes. I’m voting blue all the way, so I’m excited, and I’m ready to vote.”

Tired campaign staffers, many of which who have constantly been traveling from state to state door-knocking, handed out the last of their Kamala Harris signs as the crowd left, with messages like, “We Choose Freedom,” “Republicans for Kamala,” and “Harris for President.” When asked for their final thoughts going into the election and how the work they contributed going into the election made them feel, they expressed a sense of fulfillment from the exhaustive work they completed, with hope held strong for a Harris victory. The weekend leading into the election, 90,000 volunteers had knocked on three million doors in battleground states.

Attendees of Kamala Harris’s final rally await the vice president’s Arrival at the Philadelphia Art Museum, in Philadelphia PA, on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. An estimated 30,000 people were in attendance. (Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

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Voters wait in line to cast their ballots at a polling location for the 2024 Presidential election on Tue., Nov. 5, 2024 at Santa Monica College in Santa Monica, Calif. (Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

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On a Deep Exhale Santa Monica College resettles after tense election, some more quickly restored than others COPY EDITOR | PHEOBE HUSS

A voter bill of rights at a polling location for the 2024 Presidential election on Tue., Nov. 5, 2024 at Santa Monica College in Santa Monica, Calif. (Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

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ednesday, the Associated Press called Donald Trump’s presidential win at 5:34 a.m. Within hours, Santa Monica College (SMC) students were primed for life’s resume.

Many students admitted to, at minimum, light disappointment. As dust resettles, the emotive responses among students are strikingly varied in saturation.

Enclaves of the extremely concerned supplied the campus with dynamics.

“I don’t have much hope,” a student of initials M.D., who claims no doctoral pursuits. “It sounds overdramatic but I feel like a part of me died.”

“People on social media are like, oh, America is reaping what they sow,” he continued. “And I’m like, no, half of us don’t want this.”

“I knew I was probably going to cry if it didn’t go the way I was hoping it would go. So I stayed up. Three o’clock. Saw it,” said another student, anonymous. “Yeah, this is life now. I cried, I tried to cry as much as I can, and I’m like, okay, tomorrow, no crying. And so I’m not crying.”

This student predicted social change, and consequent interpersonal struggles: “I don’t like the idea of going back into the closet.”

Another student of initials J.M. concurred about the closet. “I haven’t even come out of the closet. I might not even have the option to do that now.”

He reflected, “When Trump won the first time, I was in fifth grade. I don’t think I had any sort of political sense back then.” But now, “when I look back at what happened in 2016, I’m just really concerned

that it’s just going to all happen again. Just worse.”

Along with immediate emotional provocations, students identified political fears.

“I’m concerned about prison reform,” said J.M. “I’m worried about the economy, it’s going downhill even more, (and) people who are in other countries don’t realize that if America’s politics get bad, it affects everything on a global scale… We’re going to be ending up in another global conflict, and then, you know, that’s going to wake people up.

“I just need to go take out my frustration on something. I’m going to the gym.”

Charlotte Massey, second-year student, offered a doomed perspective on global affairs.

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Voters wait in line to cast their ballots at a polling location for the 2024 Presidential election on Tue., Nov. 5, 2024 at the Civic Center Parking Structure in Santa Monica, Calif. ( Photos by Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

“Trump winning means a death sentence for Ukraine, for a lot of different reasons, and (for) Gaza,” said Massey. “Every decision that’s made is going to be not for the people but these companies, for themselves, for Republicans, whatever.”

“Trump winning means a death sentence for Ukraine, for a lot of different reasons, and (for) Gaza,” said Massey.

“Every decision that’s made is going to be not for the people but these companies, for themselves, for Republicans, whatever.”

Massey anticipates the country will lay their faith in the next election. For her, this is too late. “In terms of climate change, there’s zero time to waste; in terms of wars going on, if we waste time, people are dying,” she said. “In terms of reproductive rights, people have already died and are going to continue to as more of these laws get passed.”

Outside the concentration of hypervigilant politicos, the campus retained a deep-welled ambivalence. The daily humdrum rose and settled over the campus as typically as any Wednesday.

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Any chance of long-term solemnity or mourning or contemplation is outcast by the neverending grind of the Machine. But even Orwell might relent.

Student Daniela admitted she was “disappointed,” but in terms of projected impact, “it’s kinda a wait-and-see.”

“I’m not really into politics,” said student Angel Lopez. “So I don’t know how I feel about it. It’s something. It’s unexpected.”

One student confessed she has no idea how to feel.

Carlos Martinez corroborated slight disappointment, but clarified “either way I wasn’t set on who I wanted, y’know? I wasn’t decided on who, because both of them had flaws.”

Only one student was off-guard “hav(ing) to go to school today (and) work today.” Others were more resolute. The ceaselessly bustling campus reaffirmed.

Clustering by the science buildings, some groups of comrades found solace in mathematical analyses, comparing statistics and money lost on predictions.

Others yet demoed excitement. One proclaimed, “I’m going to the inauguration!”

Therapist Michelle Pereira of the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing investigated the burden of the election upon students, generally. She found it to be “a collective grief, like something died, something disappeared.”

As a coping stratagem she encourages physical grounding with routine muscle exaltation.

Voters cast their ballots at a polling location for the 2024 Presidential election on Tue., Nov. 5, 2024 at Santa Monica College in Santa Monica, Calif. (Photos by Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

Voters cast their ballots at a polling location for the 2024 Presidential election on Tue., Nov. 5, 2024 at Santa Monica College in Santa Monica, Calif.

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Abdo: A Firebrand’s Endurance Former mayor Judy Abdo, known for progressive advocacy, offers an informed perspective on the election.

Copy Editor | Phoebe Huss In 1990, Judy Abdo rocketed to local stardom by becoming the first outof-the-closet lesbian to serve as Santa Monica’s mayor. Decades later, her local involvement is off-the-charts, spilling into the current election cycle.

Abdo rooted herself in Ocean Park in the 1970s. She offered The Corsair personal access to her abode, a tawny masterclass in 19th-century construction.

Over the years, Abdo and friends have fashioned a freeform boardinghouse, having embraced many a traveler. The house sings of Abdo’s accomplishment, in sprawling photo collages, recognitive plaques, votives, and smiling housemates.

Abdo’s was a rare case. She mused, “Before rent control, people would move into Santa Monica, would just live here for a little while, and then move on in their lives. They didn’t feel like they could stay here, because they knew their rents would just keep going up.”

Ambling solo isn’t in Abdo’s style.

After setting up in Santa Monica, she trekked the activist cirque, including the establishment of a domestic violence shelter, a coalition against AIDS discrimination, and an alliance with Santa Monicans for Renters’ Rights (SMRR).

Her endeavors reached the wholly unreligious Church in Ocean Park, which Abdo describes as “a sort of progressive neighborhood-based community organizing group.”

The church’s unorthodox approach, reportedly “not about faith (or) religion at all,” allowed its founder, Rev. Jim Conn, to simultaneously minister the church and mayor the city without sparking concerns over church and state separation.

Together, he and Abdo initiated and executed rent control, limiting landlords’ ability to charge abysmally high rents or increase rents once established.

When Abdo decided to enter local governance herself, the transition was natural.

The margins between her community organizing and government work were slim. She reflected, “I didn’t

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Judy Abdo reminiscing on her proudest moment as former Santa Monica Mayor, in an interview with Corsair staff on Friday Nov. 1 2024 at Santa Monica, Calif. (Tarelle Butts | The Corsair)

even think about being a politician; it just wasn’t part of what I was thinking about. I was just being myself and running for city council.” Besides, the progressives had already secured the majority of the city council, and Abdo, model citizen, was a regular attendee of the meetings.

“I was moving into that progressive group of electeds. So, it felt really comfortable, I knew them very well,” Abdo said. “I knew what was expected.”

By this time, her community-serving reputation was established, including her work with lesbian activism. “A lot of people had told me that it was probably not a good idea to run as an ‘out lesbian’ (but) I was already out. People knew that I was out,” said Abdo. “They thought that I was gonna be attacked.”

To her surprise, retaliation was minimal. Curious, she reached out to one of her less-progressive opponents.

He assured her the city universally disregarded sexuality as a political concern. With those worries alleviated, she celebrated her mayoral victory in 1990, then again in 1992.

Despite her centralized base in Ocean Park, Abdo pursued citywide representation. “One of the things I’m most proud of is that we expanded the

whole idea of the city funding nonprofits,” she said. “That’s really important, not only because the nonprofits do wonderful work, which they do, but it also involves a whole lot more people into the city process… because each of those organizations has a whole constituency of people they serve.”

Overall, Abdo continually deflected individual commendation for her successes, referring instead to the strength in unity.

For instance, building upon her background in grassroots, Abdo oversaw the inauguration of an environmental task force, a legislative risk when “it was not a given; climate change was not a thing. I brought together some people who really wanted to organize around environmental issues. That (task force) is (presently) the sustainability commission.”

Never breaking ties with SMRR, Abdo continued to implement rent control.

Now that housing payments were more reasonably fixed, Abdo perceived change as the resident community expanded, including activist movements. The seed of renters’ activism renewed itself.

Abdo left office in 1994. In 1995, the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act was ratified, banning local governments

from passing rent caps. From then on, with respect to rent control, Santa Monica bends towards the will of the state.

“What’s gonna happen with rent control is all about Prop. 33,” said Abdo.

Proposition 33 on the Nov. 5 ballot offered to repeal Costa-Hawkins, enabling the relinquish of housing power back to cities.

On election day, Californian voters rejected the proposition, and city politicians remain unable to reinstate rent control measures. Still, Abdo, experienced in housing advocacy, maintains practicality in her prediction that “who(ever) wins the election for local city council members makes a huge difference.”

In the process of achieving reforms, Abdo suggests council members comprehend the history of the city’s legislative decisions, including the laws that are frequently subject to pushback.

Facilitating camaraderie is also important. “The Brown Act doesn’t allow

you to talk outside of the public meetings,” said Abdo. “But two or three council members can have an agreement and hope they get others’ support.

“For all that work, both before I was on the council, while I was on the council, and actually after, it’s all about building

affirming what already is.

The proposition passed easily, which is something of a statewide milestone for gay activism, but Abdo finds an equally pressing concern at home.

“I can talk about what LGBTQ things are going on in the city,” Abdo said.

“This election, we have the first out person running again. I ran in ’88 and Dan Hall is running now.

Nobody has been an out LGBTQ in between.”

Even Santa Monica is beholden to systemic exclusion. If Proposition 3 weren’t passed, the Californian Constitution wouldn’t face alteration. The fear still hasn’t dwindled.

In the case of a judicial ban on same-sex marriage, Abdo retains faith in community uprising, predicting “people would respond, all over the country.” But community necessitates participants.

Abdo implores: “You must vote. No matter what. You must vote.”

It’s all about building relationships with lots of people, and working together. relationships with lots of people, and working together. It’s not about one person having an idea and then just making it happen.” After the election, the fresh city council will demonstrate whether the council’s cooperative is a relic of the past.

Tastes of Abdo’s activism arose elsewhere on the ballot; Proposition 3 upholds the security of same-sex marriage. Rather than introduce novel legislation, this proposition removes the possibility of marriage restriction on the basis of race or sex in California law,

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The Final Fright: Ursula’s Costumes to Close after Halloween By: Adriana Brady, Staff Writer

After almost 30 years of serving the Santa Monica community every fall, local costume shop Ursula’s Costumes, is planning on shutting their doors in early November.

Different costume masks are shown on Tue., Oct. 8, 2024 at Ursula's Costumes, 2516 Wilshire Blvd, in Santa Monica, Calif. After opening in 1976 in Culver City and spending the last 30 years in Santa Monica, owner Ursula Boschet, 90, is retiring and closing Ursula’s Costumes, a speciality year round costume rental shop.

Nestled along Wilshire Boulevard in the heart of Santa Monica stood Ursula’s Costumes, a specialty costume rental shop that has served the area for almost 30 years. The main driver for business was the costume pieces for rent, specially handmade by owner Ursula Boschet.

The store has been a pillar of the Santa Monica community, serving a wide demographic of customers, ranging from affluent locals to international buyers in countries like Australia and England.

After continuously working at the store every day, Boschet has decided to close her doors to be able to retire, but also as a result of competition with other well-known retailers, including corporations such as Spirit Halloween and online retailers like Amazon. The struggle to stay present is especially due to the lasting effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Boschet originally retired at age 75, but did not retire from her store and continued to work. “It’s just not possible anymore,” Boschet said. “(With) sickness and all that kind of stuff, I can’t do it anymore.”

Boschet, who is 90 years old, has been working tirelessly in the costume design industry for many years. She learned the dressmaking and tailoring trades in Germany when she was 14 before immigrating to the United States while working in the theater industry.

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Before opening her store, Boschet worked on costume alterations for “Disney on Parade” while also working for the Theatrical Wardrobe Union, providing alterations and costumes.

Customers have been drawn to Ursula’s Costumes due to the unique handmade pieces that Boschet worked on, and the ability to have costumes altered and customized. The store made many of their available ensembles rentable. However, now as the store has closed its doors, Ursula’s sold these pieces at reasonable prices. “People don’t have money right now,” Boschet said. “We just have to sell.”

The store itself is rooted in the history of serving many famous Hollywood stars, including Tina Turner, John Travolta, the Pointer Sisters, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Bette Midler. After many years, the business is still in full swing, especially as Halloween draws closer. “(I) wanted a piece of history,” said customer Sharlene Choy of East Los Angeles. Choy collects vintage pieces and tried on several costumes at Ursula’s after hearing that the store was closing.

Customers of Ursula’s have been especially surprised to hear that the store would be closing, with local and longtime customers calling the store in an attempt to get the business to stay. “When they found out, a lot of them called me saying

‘How can you go out of business? We need you here!’” said Boschet.

But even as the foot traffic has picked up at Ursula’s due to the closure, many customers weren’t as willing to make a purchase in-store. “They’re coming in, but they don’t buy nothing,” said Boschet. “Not as much as we thought would happen, but they’re still coming… they all want me to stay until I’m 100, I guess.”

Despite this, staff members, including Boschet’s son and daughter, continued to help find the right costume and fit for every customer that came through the door. Even at 90, Boschet continued to work on every aspect of the store, tagging costumes and observing fittings.

“She’s a working girl!” staff member Bill said regarding Boschet. As he continued to serve customers, whom he described as “real serious costumers… most people aren’t thinking about Halloween yet.”

Business at Ursula’s was expected to pick up during the true Halloween season, closer to the holiday. As of now, Ursula’s has appeared to have closed its doors after what was their final Halloween. Customers can check if the store is still open by calling their number, (310) 582-8230.

Owner Ursula Boschet, 90, poses for a portrait on Tue., Oct. 8, 2024 at Ursula’s Costumes, 2516 Wilshire Blvd, in Santa Monica, Calif. After opening in 1976 in Culver City and spending the last 30 years in Santa Monica, owner Ursula Boschet, 90, is retiring and closing Ursula’s Costumes, a speciality year round costume rental shop.

Boschet has continued worked full time in the store and is retiring after this Halloween season. “It’s just not possible anymore,” Boschet said. “Sickness and all that kind of stuff, I can’t do it anymore.”

Inside Ursula’s Costumes, 2516 Wilshire Blvd, on Tue., Oct. 8, 2024 in Santa

Owner Ursula Boschet points out a signed photo of Cindy Crawford on Tue., Oct. 8,

Monica, Calif. After opening in 1976 in Culver City and spending the last

2024 at Ursula's Costumes, 2516 Wilshire Blvd, in Santa Monica, Calif. After open-

30 years in Santa Monica, owner Ursula Boschet, 90, is retiring and closing

ing in 1976 in Culver City and spending the last 30 years in Santa Monica, Boschet,

Ursula’s Costumes, a speciality year round costume rental shop. ( Photos by

90, is retiring and closing Ursula’s Costumes, a speciality year round costume

Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

rental shop. Boschet has created costumes for many Hollywood actors, artists and models over her career.

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Is Ryan Murphy the Real Monster?

Ryan Murphy is the internet’s new target after the release of Monster: The Lyle and Erik By: Jeffrey Berrios, Staff Writer Menendez Story.

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yan Murphy has always been labeled one of throughout the series. Despite Murphy Hollywood’s most polarizing and thought- attempting to show the multiple layers of the provoking television writers and directors. brothers, many viewers were still displeased Murphy has been praised for his innovative with the way Murphy handled their sexual work, specifically his hit show American Horror abuse claims. One X (formerly Twitter) user Story. Murphy uses the horror genre as a mask wrote, “Murphy’s insistence on portraying but at their core, his projects always incorporate Lyle and Erik Menendiz as evil completely social commentary. overshadows the important issue of SA.” Despite this, some claim that Murphy’s In a shocking turn of events, Erik work has zero thought behind it and only Menendez’s wife shared a statement from him in consists of torture porn and graphic sex scenes. which he addresses Murphy and the telling of Even though critics and audiences don’t always his story, stating “I believe Ryan Murphy cannot understand Murphy, it always seemed like the be this naive and inaccurate about the facts of writer had a core audience that would eat up our lives so as to do this without bad intent… It anything he served, until now. is sad for me that Netflix’s dishonest portrayal Netflix released the sequel series to of the tragedies surrounding our crime have Murphy’s hit show Monster, which was based on the infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. The sequel is titled Monsters and based on Lyle and Erik Menendez, two brothers who were convicted of killing their parents, José and Kitty Menendez.

This won’t be the first time Murphy encounters criticism.

Just two years ago, he was accused of exploiting the victims of Dahmer. Even the victims’ families spoke out against Murphy, accusing him of using Illustration of Menendez brothers by Jenna Tibby, Corsair Staff their stories without permission and retraumatizing them with the taken the painful truths several steps backward release of the show. The writer refuted these – back through time to an era when the claims and stated that he contacted 20 of the prosecution built a narrative on a belief system victims’ loved ones and not one responded. that males were not sexually abused, and that Despite the negative response that Dahmer got males experienced rape trauma differently than backlash for, the reaction to The Lyle and Erik woman.”

Menendez Story seems even greater.

Murphy responded to Menendez’s Unlike Dahmer, there is a large crowd statement in an interview with Entertainment that believes the Menendez brothers are not Tonight (ET), saying “I think it’s interesting that cold-blooded killers, but victims. The Menendez he issued a statement without having seen the brothers spent seven years in jail and endured show… The thing that I find interesting that he two trials and a mistrial before they were doesn’t mention in his quote and that nobody convicted for murdering their parents and sent from that side of the aisle is talking about is that, to prison for life without parole. Throughout if you watch the show, I would say 60 to 65% the trial, both brothers claimed their father of our show and the scripts and film form (a) had sexually abused them and remain adamant center around the abuse and what they claim about the abuse to this day. happened to them.”

The sexual abuse claims made by the Murphy isn’t only being criticized for his Menendez brothers are a consistent theme “mishandling” of sexual abuse victims stories

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but also for addressing alleged incest rumors revolving the brothers. This outrage was sparked when a user on X screen-grabbed a scene from the show of the brothers, played by Cooper Coch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez, kissing on the lips with the caption, “Of course, it’s a Ryan Murphy production.” The tweet caused an outrage of tweets with one user on X posting, “Creating some sort of incest storyline between two brothers that suffered sexual abuse at the hands of their father for 20 years is so beyond sick and twisted it makes me want to throw up.”

Murphy addressed the backlash to this particular scene in his interview with ET, stating, “If you watched the show, what the show is doing is presenting the points of view and theories from so many people involved in the case.” In spite of this, the internet has continued to condemn Murphy and the series.

The backlash has almost become bigger than the show and has shifted into the questioning of Murphy’s character.

In one post on X, a user said “Ryan Murphy is an evil man and he needs to stop making shows about people with trauma.”

Another user stated, “The Menendez brothers were victims of sexual abuse who finally retaliated against their abusers and this disgusting piece of trash has turned their story into an incestuous fanfic. Hell is not hot enough for Ryan Murphy.”

Although the backlash is loud, it has not stopped casual audiences from watching the show. Variety reported that Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story was the number-one most-watched series on Netflix and hit 12.3 million views in its first four days; still, it didn’t surpass the opening numbers of Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story.

The negative response from social media has not deterred Murphy from tackling these stories. He’ll be coming together with Netflix for the third installment of the Monsters series where he’ll be covering the Ed Gein murders.

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Dodgers players and fans celebrate during the Dodgers World Series Championship parade on Fri., Nov. 1, 2024 on Spring Street in front of Los Angeles City Hall in Los Angeles, Calif. (Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

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Bleeding Blue

Dodger Fans flooded through downtown Los Angeles in support of the Dodgers victory as they parade through the city, their first since 1988 Sports Editor | Adriana Brady

Los Angeles(LA) Dodger’s fan wears the 2024 World Series(WS) LA hat before the start of the Dodgers WS trophy parade on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 at Los Angeles, Calif. (Danilo Perez | The Corsair)

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hortly after their World Series victory, the streets of Downtown Los Angeles were filled with a sea of Dodger blue on Friday, Nov 1st as the Dodgers celebrated with a parade that brought the city together. This celebration was particularly memorable.

This is now the Dodgers eighth World Series title in franchise history, it was also their first parade since 1988. While the Dodgers won in 2020, there were no celebrations due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Dodger fans arrived downtown bright and early, some camping out overnight or waiting in front of City Hall as early as 5 am. Even in the early morning, the fans maintained good energy and high spirits, cheering as they flooded through Gloria Molina Grand Park, with a crowd of almost 250,000 people. The support for the Dodgers had no limits, as fans traveled from afar to celebrate alongside the team.

“My grandmother is a big Dodgers fan, she’s 94 years old - she became a Dodgers fan during the Jackie Robinson

days,” said Dale Martin, a fan who traveled to Los Angeles from Phoenix, Arizona. “My whole family are Dodger fans…the Dodgers do spring training in Phoenix, so sometimes my grandmother comes out and we go to about three or four spring training games a year.”

Fans continued to cheer and show their support, some blasting music from their own speakers, dancing and chanting for the team. Fans were also watching clips from the World Series that were being displayed on screens in the park. The crowd continued to play “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar, a song that has become the anthem of the World Series victory, as the parade anticipation continued to build.

“It came at a perfect time because it became our hype song,” said Cici Hernadez, a Los Angeles native and diehard Dodgers fan. “It represents us Los Angeles people… it means a lot, he represents us just as Fernando (Valenzuela) did for us Hispanics as well.”

“It came at a perfect time because it became our hype song,” said Cici Hernadez, a Los Angeles native and diehard Dodgers fan. “It represents us Los Angeles people…it means a lot, he represents us just as Fernando (Valenzuela) did for us Hispanics as well.”

Alongside celebrating the World Series victory, fans commemorated legendary Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela on what would have been his 64th birthday. Valenzuela had recently passed away only a week earlier, on Oct. 22nd.

At around 11 am, the police escorts arrived in front of City Hall awaiting the Dodger’s arrival as the streets erupted with cheers. Those waiting by City Hall continued to celebrate with each other; dancing

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“We all root for the Dodgers…we always bleed blue,” said Aaron Im, a Los Angeles native. “We are all from LA and we all root pretty much for the same team and this is really about the community because we all have the one common team that we root for.”

Dodgers players and fans celebrate during the Dodgers World Series Championship parade on Fri., Nov. 1, 2024 on Spring Street in front of Los Angeles City Hall in Los Angeles, Calif. (Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair)

around, speaking with television hosts and even drinking to the victory.

The Dodgers then arrived in their blue buses and stopped in front of City Hall for a moment. The Dodgers waved to fans, as the crowds cheered for their favorite players, especially celebrating Dodgers’ hitter Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani’s beloved dog, Decoy, made a special appearance and the crowd went wild.

“We all root for the Dodgers…we always bleed blue,” said Aaron Im, a Los Angeles native. “We are all from LA and we all root pretty much for the same team and this is really about the community because we all have the one common team that we root for.”

Confetti filled the air as the Dodgers embarked on their parade route. As the fans made their way to Grand Park to continue the celebration, everyone came together as a community, with kids playing in the confetti, fans waving flags and signs, playing instruments, and dancing to music in the park. The celebration continued all over Los Angeles, fans sharing the moment with each other. This win meant something special to everyone.

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“It means a lot because my husband was a diehard fan but he passed away, so that’s why I am here and I feel like he’s with me,” said Maria (Letty) Mosqueda, a Los Angeles native speaking on what the celebration meant for her. “...I hope that they win it again, it would be nice to do it back-to-back…that was like history made, I absolutely love it.”

The parade concluded at Dodger Stadium, with a special event following shortly after. The Dodgers were able to speak to fans and continue the celebration, bringing the series trophy home. The streets of downtown Los Angeles were still flooded with Dodger blue, as fans continued to show their support throughout the day. The anticipation for next season still lingers, many fans are hoping for a back-to-back victory in 2025.

Los Angeles Police Department officer looks the opposite way from the fans while wearing the LA Dodgers hat ahead of their Championship Parade on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 at Los Angeles, Calif. (Danilo Perez | The Corsair)

Crowd of Los Angeles(LA) Dodger fans raise their phones to take photos of players and manager Dave Roberts who holds the Commissioner’s Trophy, better known as the World Series Trophy, in the air for the Dodgers Championship Parade on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 at Los Angeles, Calif. (Danilo Perez | The Corsair)

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Corsairs Sweep Renegades in Conference Showdown Corsairs maintain their winning streak as they sweep their Western State Conference opponent, the Bakersfield College Renegades.

Sports Editor | Adriana Brady

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anta Monica, Calif. - On Wednesday, Oct. 30, the Santa Monica College Corsairs women’s volleyball team (157) promptly defeated the Bakersfield College Renegades (12-9) in three sets.

The Corsairs maintained strong leads early, and were able to force mistakes out of the Renegades.

Outside hitter Sadie Town led the Corsairs’ offense with 12 kills and a .391 hitting percentage. Corsairs’ middle blocker Nicole Lankton, opposite hitter Reese Luke, and outside hitter Allison Horin followed with seven kills each.

Corsairs’ libero Annah Legaspi led the defense, totaling 22 digs as Lankton and Luke led with three blocks each. Setter Stella Moritz earned two aces for the Corsairs as well.

The Corsairs are currently in first place in Western State Conference South standings, and are in a prime position to take the conference title. The Corsairs need a victory over the College of the Canyons Cougars to share the title, but may be able to take the solo title if the Cougars fall to the Renegades again.

The Corsairs are also in the running to make the playoffs in late November, with a possible bye. Their next match is on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at the College of the Canyons.

The Corsair mascott and cheerleader watch the Santa Monica College women’s volleyball game on October 30, 2024 at The Corsair Gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0. (Mary Funsten | The Corsair)

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Santa Monica College’s libero Annah Legaspi (7) and teammates celebrate on October 30, 2024 at the Santa Monica College gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0. (Photos by Mary Funsten | The Corsair)

Santa Monica College’s libero Annah Legaspi (7) and teammates celebrate on October 30, 2024 at the Santa Monica College gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0.

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Fans dress as pirates at the Santa Monica College women’s volleyball game on Wednesday October 30, 2024 at The Corsair Gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0. (Mary Funsten | The Corsair)

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Santa Monica College’s opposite hitter Zoe Horner (13) after the team made a point on October

The Corsair Cheerleaders cheer for the Santa Monica College Women’s volleyball team on

30, 2024 at the Santa Monica College gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College

October 30, 2024 at the Santa Monica College gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica

Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0. (Photos Mary Funsten | The Corsair)

College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0.

(Middle Photo) Santa Monica College’s middle blocker Nicole Lankton (5) and opposite hitter Reese Luke (8) block a ball on October 30, 2024 at the Santa Monica College gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0.

(Bottom Photo) Santa Monica College’s Libero Annah Legaspi (7) digs the ball on October 30, 2024 at the Santa Monica College gym in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College Corsairs defeated Bakersfield College Renegades 3-0.

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