SMC Corsair Newspaper: Fall 2010, Issue 2

Corsair The Santa Monica College

Volume C, Issue 2

www.thecorsaironline.com

Informing Since 1929

9/11: Still in our hearts

Wednesday, Septemeber 15, 2010

The crashing conundrum continues to raise concerns The need to add classes has spilled over into violence, but what is the college doing about it?

By Jonathan Bue Staff Writer

Alexander Gallagher Soltes Corsair Guy Romero, 5, prays on Santa Monica Beach for the family of this soldier who was lost due to events after the 9/11 attacks on the United States. “I just want to make sure that the family is living in peace without this member being present on Earth anymore. I hope he lives on in Heaven.”

[See Remembering 9/11, page 8]

Four honored with awards of excellence Garen Baghdasarian, Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein, Marc Trujillo, and Saul Rubin recieve awards of excellence.

By Miles Arnold Staff Writer Every year, the Santa Monica College Foundation presents four SMC professors with the President’s Circle Chair of Excellence award

for outstanding work in four different academic spheres.

This year’s recipients were professors Garen Baghdasarian who is winning the award in Life sciences, Richard TahvildaranJesswein in Philosophy and Social Science, Marc Trujillo in Fine Arts, and Corsair newspaper advisor Saul Rubin in Communication.

Designed as an incentive for faculty members to try new, innovative avenues to

improve both their career as well as their student’s learning environment, the awards provide each winning recipient with $5,000 annually for three years to put towards their selected projects or research.

Tahvildaran-Jesswein, a current Political Science professor at SMC, is receiving the foundation’s award of excellence in Philosophy and Social Science.

With his $5,000 in annual

funds, Tahvildaran-Jesswein said that he plans to “re-invest it in the students” by working to start up and support a civic engagement program similar to the one over at the University of California, Los Angeles.

“This will allow students the chance to get out into the community and work with public policy makers to help them better understand what it is like to work in that field,”

[See Award, page 4]

On Sept. 2, a large crowd of students clustered around a classroom in the Humanities and Social Sciences building hoping to add a women’s studies course. With tempers already frayed, the stress of trying to add a potentially vital class proved too much, leading to the assault of a Santa Monica College student.

According to SMCPD officer Mark Kessler, a male SMC student struck a female student in the face, warranting his arrest and subsequent charges for “assault on school grounds.”

Paperwork has been drawn to remove him from classes and the city attorney will determine whether charges will proceed.

This is just an extreme example of the frustration students feel about what is being done to combat the problem. These days, the issue of crashing classes has rarely been more poignant, and the first week of the fall semester exemplified this, with long lines of students hoping to crash classes already full and SMC professors taking an autonomous approach to the problem of crashing.

Some students are critical of the fact that, in this economy, some instructors choose not to fill their classes to capacity.

“There’s definitely something wrong with that. There are all these people who want to get educated; I think that will stimulate the economy,” said Sarah Martin, 20. “We’re

[See Crash, page 3]

No way of transferring the problem Students find transferring difficult despite SMC’s effort to ease the process.

By Guiliana Dakdouk Design Editor Yes, it is that time again. It is a new semester with new classes, new students and the start of a new college application season.

The next five months will be filled with applications, seminars, meetings and the final decision as to where exactly you hope to apply.

Historically, Santa Monica College is one of the strongest transfer community colleges in the state, but depending upon how much initiative you take, the ease in transferring from SMC to whichever school you desire changes fairly drastically.

Think back to your first visit to the Welcome Center.

Depending on your luck, the average wait time was anywhere between five and thirty-five minutes. The walls were plastered with college flags and you had a glimmer

of hope that you could transfer to one of those schools in a relative time.

Rosilynn Tilley, a counselor at the Welcome Center, said that “students are very open with the counselors and are a blank slate ready to be written on.” However, Tilley finds that most students don’t transfer in the two years that they hoped for due to the English and math classes they test into.

“When you explain to students that [placing into classes is important], that

[See Transfer, page 3]

John Stapleton lV Corsair Santa Monica College student, Anna Berkey, examines an array of literature dedicated to the issue of transferring. Despite plenty of help available, some students still find the task of transferring problematic.

02

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

THIS WEEK

T

Wednesday September , 

able of Contents

Alexander Gallagher Soltes Corsair The LAX gateway pillars were programmed to show the nation’s colors of red, white, and blue to commemorate the planes that were lost in the 9/11 attacks. Three of the four planes that were hijacked on that day were destined for LAX.

More news @ thecorsaironline.com Fashion column - Dame

By Cristina Maxwell Staff Writer

News

Crashing conundrum Awards of excellence Transferring problems New Orleans looks back Cafeteria revamp

1, 3, & 4

A&E

Greek Fest “Still Here” Interpol review “Body Talk” review Weezer review Green Man art show

5, 6, & 7

Photo Story

9/11 memorial

8 & 9

Opinion

Two takes on the Westlake shooting SMCʼs new cafeteria Schoolsʼ invasion of privacy

10 & 11

Lifestyle

Environmental lecture series Juggling Barfly Taste of the World

12 & 13

Sports

Soccer Football Weekly Professor Breadown Opinion: USC Trojans

14 & 15

Tobias Deml is featured

16

Cristina looks for the cheapest threads for SMC students to take the everyday “what to wear” pressure off the everyday student, weekly.

Graham Dechter/Steve Cotter Quartet

By Cyndi Gomez Staff Writer A review of the intimate jazz performance at the SMC Performing Arts Center last weekend.

Opinion - Israeli Peace Talks

By Lauren Walsh Staff Writer Clinton-brokered Middle East peace talks are a step in the right direction.

“Buried” movie review

By Sean Hunt Staff Writer Can Ryan Reynolds act his way out of a box, let alone a wet paper bag?

Corrections: In issue 1, volume C the photo in “This Week” was credited to Kasey Stokes, it should instead have been attributed to Corsair photographer George Mikhail

Exhibit

Wednesday September , 

NEWS

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

03

Lack of classes leads to complex problems [Crash, from page 1] paying

for these classes, but I don’t know what we can do about that.”

According to Georgia Lorenz, director of Academic Affairs at SMC, the district has no policy regarding the methods in which faculty choose to add students so long as they meet the minimum, and do not exceed the maximum, enrollment number. This number varies depending on the class.

Dr. Tahvildaran-Jesswein, a socialscience professor at SMC, states that the real problems start in Sacramento and that class seats are limited because the funds just aren’t there.

According to the Los Angeles Times, course sections statewide were reduced by about six percent over the summer, and that 140,000 students were not able to enroll in any classes this year.

Tahvildaran-Jesswein makes the point that SMC still offers winter and fall sessions when other colleges have ceased to do so, despite an anticipated $5 million operating deficit for the upcoming year.

But what do the students make of the issue?

Alannah Konno, in her first semester at SMC, was amongst a crowd trying to add a speech course taught by professor Ogata. When asked how she felt about her chances of getting into the class, she said that she had “no idea.”

That is because at one point, the total number of students trying to add the course reached nearly 80. At least, that’s what Ogata approximates the number to be. He highlighted how classes offered at certain times prove to be more popular

amongst those hoping to crash.

“The later the time comes, the more popular the class,” said Ogata, “so 12:45 is silly.”

Students, like Konno, who try to endear themselves to Ogata’s roster, go through a process of attending subsequent classes - even writing papers on why they should get in. Ogata then chooses his students based on their academic needs.

“He tries to, like, make it fair and help other kids out. So I think it’s really good,” said Konno.

All over campus instructors employ various methods for adding students to their classes. Traditional strategies like drawing a lottery, first-come-first-serve, and having students linger until another drops are common ways.

However, there are now methods, in which crashing students must petition their enrolled peers, or even decide amongst themselves who stay and who go. Some instructors choose to test students’ dedication by requiring that they take an exam or write an essay before being added. Of course, there are those who choose to let a “No Adds” sign do all the talking.

Dr.Tahvildaran-Jesswein requires students who want to add his class to purchase their books and meet him on the track to get an add code. He believes that most instructors are sympathetic to the plight of students.

“Across the board, it appears that we faculty have added more students than what we are contracted to,” said Tahvildaran-Jesswein.

Meanwhile, instructors like Professor Ogata can empathize with the students

Transfer time for students

[Transfer, from page 1] g l i m m e r of hope changes,” said Tilley. “But this is a learning experience.”

The seamless way to transfer begins with students who are honest about their goals, and know where they want to transfer.

After a visit with the counseling staff, first year student Lauren Dunn, 18, said, “I feel like I now know where I am headed [in terms of transferring] and what I am reaching for.”

The number of sources provided to students are countless via the Transfer Center on campus or the Transfer Center’s website. Take a student who knows they want to transfer to the University of California, Los Angeles.

By simply selecting a few icons, they are directed to all the information necessary for being eligible to apply.

However, Dunn, like many other students found the website to be a little unclear when compared to her sessions with the counseling staff.

The difficult and not so seamless part to the entire transfer process would be getting the chance to meet with a counselor and getting the classes you need to fulfill your general education requirements.

While the wait is long to meet with the counselors, “The wait is worth the long term prize,” second year Ramona Pedoeim, 19, said. “Meeting with my counselor regularly has set me up to really understand and know how to transfer in a timely matter.”

Though the counseling situation may be difficult, for those who attempted crashing classes this year they found more rejection than usual prior to even stepping through the class doors.

Walking down the hallway, flyers were posted on many doors stating that the class is full and the professor did

not intend to add anyone. For students without priority enrollment, finding your ideal schedule is near impossible.

Although enrollment is down this semester, the number of classes cut was increased.

Despite such dreary chances of getting the classes needed to transfer, the person who best guides you through this transfer process is none other than your counselor. Unsuccessful transfers are often blamed on the counseling staff, but this can be misplaced anger.

Counseling staff should supplement the work that has originally been started by your self.

Researching your desired schools and majors allows you to better understand what exactly your school wants in their students. Setting appointments with your desired colleges as well as visiting the campus will put you in an advantage.

“We tell them to check back with us and go visit career centers and schools to help adjust to the college experience,” said Tilley.

Organizations such as ASSIST provide students with a unit-by-unit breakdown of classes that transfer from SMC to the school of your choice. Following a plan like the IGETC or one of the private school plans, will get you to take the right classes and keep you on track to transferring as soon as possible.

Keeping your questions to yourself only worsens the situation. Counselors encourage you to ask them about situations you are confused about as well as help deciding what is the next step.

Transferring is not a smooth process as noted by many students who have attempted to transfer before, but the Transfer Center reports approximately 3,000 students transfer per year proving that it is an attainable goal.

Ariana Masters Corsair The problem of crashing has prevented many SMC istudents from enrolling in often vital classes.

This has led to some classrooms accomodating more students than they are able to seat.

but believe that students in turn need to understand the problem from the faculties’ perspective.

“Once I think you understand why, and what, the professors are doing, and their philosophy of education, teaching, and learning, then you can understand that they have a right and responsibility to do what they need to do to make that class effective,” said Ogata.

Still, Ogata feels that there needs to be a discussion between all parties to clarify

the issue of admission policies, how many students can be admitted, and at what point. “It doesn’t help our credibility and reputation as an institution to have students who are unhappy,” said Ogata.

It is now three weeks into the current semester and 45 students are still hopeful in joining Ogata’s class. Konno was not amongst those who got in. “I’m kind of depressed but I’ll try again next semester,” said Konno. “His class is really good.”

04

NEWS

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Wednesday September , 

New Orleans still reeling Five years after Katrina, the struggle still continues to restore New Orleans to its former glory.

By Alexandra Ahneman Staff Writer When Katrina struck, Matt Anderson stayed. He promised a friend he would house sit, and that’s just what he did. The storm came, and the storm went. But, then came the flood, and Anderson was left without a home for over four years.

This February, Anderson was granted a free apartment after he received the mandatory two diagnosis of P.T.S.D., to qualify for a paid-for-by-thepublic shelter. “Tomorrow, there’s work to be done on termites,” Anderson says.

You wont find termites in The French Quarter which now boasts “more restaurants, more hotels and more stores than before Katrina,” according to Anderson. So,

while tourists enjoy the restoration and additional improvements, residents are still left wanting. And, many have yet to return There are those people who see the glass half full and others who see it half empty.

Then there are people like Peter Ricchiuti, who know that “the glass is just too big.”

Ricchuiti, 52, has lived in New Orleans for 24 years, and is assistant dean at the Freeman School of Business at Tulane University, and former chief investment officer for the State of Louisiana.

Along with many of the residents who have returned to their homes, Peter is pleased that they have built the population back up to 350,000 (pre-Katrina population was approximately 500,000), and says, “It’s very odd in that the city’s footprint is just too big.” The current population is quite different from the pre-Katrina crowd.

In Ricchuiti’s opinion, the demographic is now “a little

whiter, quite a bit more Hispanic, wealthier, younger, and more educated.” This is precisely what Steven Pearl, a prominent local television and film producer in Los Angeles, misses most.

“I miss the people,” says Pearl, who are still unable to return because “there’s still no home there for them to return to.” This, he believes, is a result of many insurance companies refusing to pay out on hurricane insurance on the basis that it was flood damage that destroyed their homes.

Additionally, “sales taxes and property taxes have risen each year since the storm,” said Ricchiuti, who added that New Orleans is “one of the very few municipalities to receive a bond rating upgrade.” The bond rating upgrade ensures that loans issued to the city will carry with them the lowest possible interest rates and costs. Is it the increase in taxation that has prevented many former residents of New Orleans to

return to their home?

Pearl has long enjoyed a love affair with New Orleans and recently returned to the city to oversee pre-production of his current feature film starring Miley Cirus. He hopes to have time to visit the 9 th ward to see the improvements made by the Make It Right NoLa foundation.

“The French Quarter looks great.” Pearl said, “It’s the lower 7 th and 8 th wards.” And, that’s the saddest part of this celebrated rebuilding effort, the still displaced residents.

Then there are the numerous charitable organizations that have helped, and continue to help, to rebuild the city, a perfect example of which is Teach for America, an AmeriCorps not-for-profit organization. Founded by Laura Arnold in 1990, wife of natural gas tycoon John Arnold, since its inception “over 150 Tulane alums have entered the classroom through [the organization],” said Kaitlin Gastrock, regional

director of communications for Teach for America.

Over the past five years, New Orleans has seen its graduation rate consistently rise by 10 percent, and with over 400 teachers reaching some 27,000 students in the area this year and 300 alumni living in New Orleans, Teach for America has proved a success. But Kaitlin would prefer some new corps members so they can reach the downtown areas that still haven’t been rebuilt.

“Teach for America is supplying New Orleans with 205 new corps members this year, and the organization is accepting applications from graduates “interested in improving students’ academic and life trajectories,” said Gastrock.

So, it’s not for a lack of effort, but the city still bears its wounds. And, perhaps the Big Easy will one day get her break, but today she still feels the aftershocks of the perfect storm.

Professors’ excellence recognized [Awards, from page 1]

Sal Guerra Corsair SMC Students (L to R) Jed Fuchs, Colin Curran, and Sarah Epperson converse over lunch September 14 in the newly remodeled Cafeteria, complete with several new flat screens and furniture.

New cafeteria on everbody’s lips

By Matt Gottesman and Adam Rubin Staff Writers Aside from the comings and goings of venue fasciae and some updated vending machines, Santa Monica College’s cafeteria has remained largely unchanged for the past twenty years. But during the summer, it underwent a complete renovation.

New eateries, television screens, cash stations and hardwood floors are just some of the recent additions. But the complete cosmetic makeover notwithstanding, the new cafeteria was designed with sustainability in mind.

Eat St., a new choice for students, only uses fruit and vegetables from the local farmers market, all their plates and silverware are approved as ecofriendly, and they also participate in the school compost program.

“The process is entirely different,” said Victor Cardet, the operations director for Eat St. “The cafeteria before used completely processed and frozen food. We, on the other hand, make our food from raw

ingredients which gives us total control of what you eat.”

Cardet explained that they had a green consultant for their previous restaurants so they knew exactly “what to go for” with the one intended for the college.

Another new vender, Homeboy Bakery, is a local charitable company that helps at-risk, disadvantaged, and formerly gang-involved youths by finding them employment through a local network.

However, student opinion regarding the recent changes to the college cafeteria seems to differ.

According to some, the summer-long project has come off as more of a $ 440,000 face-lift than a much needed renovation.

“It looks new but it’s the same thing,” said Bryan Zavala, 20, who believes that not much has changed save the prices, which have raised slightly. “The food is all right, but it’s not the best. It makes me want to bring my own food,” Zavala added.

Zavala also points out that the money used for the renovation could have been allocated towards relieving the overcrowded SMC

classes, saying, “I wish they would’ve spent the money on classes.”

“Why so many screens?” asked Eunbee Lee, 21, commenting on the brand new flat screen televisions scattered around the walls. “Instead of buying TVs, there could be more variety,” she added, indicating the lack of options in terms of food. She also said that the price increases resulting from the renovation deterred her from buying anything at the cafeteria this semester.

But in other corners, initial feedback was also positive. “I love it. Good quality food, more healthy options, and chicken curry wrap with grapes and apples. Just a lot nicer,” said Michael Nader, a sophomore, who appreciated the more health conscious selections now available.

Clint Stevens, a sophomore, was also satisfied with the changes made. “It’s better. I love the whole make over. It’s very well put together,” Stevens said.

Ultimately, it seems that the student consensus is split down the middle.

said Tahvildaran-Jesswein, who added that, “it gives me a chance to get back in the classroom and continue to work on a project that I’ve already put time and effort into for the students and the school.”

The Sam Francis/Martin Sosin Chair of Excellence award in Fine Arts went to ten-year SMC art professor Marc Trujillo.

As a Yale graduate and award winning artist, he plans to use the award money to attend workshops in New York that will allow him to better understand oil paints and the art of mixing them.

“It’s like cooking,” Trujillo said. “I’ve done it before but I’m not an expert.”

With the knowledge gained in the workshops he will then purchase the required materials and create a number of different charts that will better help the faculty and students understand and learn what he has gathered from the workshops.

Trujillo said that he will return with a better knowledge of the more environmentally safe paints that need to be used in the classrooms at SMC. In regards to receiving the award, he commented by saying that, “It’s nice to know that the college is supporting the field that I work in to improve the classrooms for the faculty, students and environment.”

SMC Corsair advisor Saul Rubin was the recipient of the newly established Chair of Excellence award in Communication.

Rubin, who has spent the last 11 years as a journalism professor here at SMC, and

the last year and a half as the Corsair’s advisor, was honored to receive the award saying that, “It’s great to know that the college is supportive of journalism here at the school, and of my career.”

With the funds Rubin will be receiving, he plans to work with Steve Hunt and Mona Martin in the SMC library to create a database for past, present and future issues of the Corsair, which go all the way back to 1929.

This comes as part of a recent national effort to digitize print newspapers.

“We are on the forefront of this project,” said Rubin.

“It is beneficial to teachers, students and the community.”

Rubin added that, “It’s a project that has to be done.”

Prior to joining Santa Monica College in 1999, Rubin had fifteen years of journalism experience and has written for various newspapers and magazines including the Los Angeles Times and Variety.

Garen Baghdasarian, who has been a teacher at SMC now for the past nine years, was awarded the Avaya Inc. & Anixter Inc. Chair of Excellence in Life Science.

He said that he plans to use his funds by participating in a major research project in the South Atlantic Ocean that is believed to be a “garbage patch” for plastic micro-particulates that can have “devastating long term ecological and health effects on a global scale.”

Baghdasarian, who has been active in environmental issues at SMC over the years, has also taught and done research at UCLA. He is currently the head of the Life Sciences department at SMC.

A&E

Wednesday September , 

Fans at the opening gallery of “Trent Reynolds: Green Man Paintings” admire Mr. Reynolds’ favorite painting.

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

05

Jessica Mendoza Corsair

Trent Reynolds: the Green Man on campus Trent Reynolds, current featured artist at Emeritus College, discusses who the Green Man really is.

By Jennifer Ferrada Staff Writer Alter egos definitely can exist through the work of an artist. One alter ego, who exists through artist and teacher Trent Reynolds, is called the Green Man. To Reynolds, the Green Man is a metaphor for the things in life with which he has struggled.

“Trent Reynolds: Green Man P a i n t i n g s , ” the art exhibit which opened last Thursday at Emeritus College, took people through Reynolds’ elaborate journey with the Green Man. Reynolds, the fourth of six boys, grew up in a family of lawyers and businessmen. “I was trying to find my own place,” Reynolds said.

He has been loving and doing art since he was a child.

The Green Man appeared once to Reynolds only to just recently come back again as his reflection; the mirror through multiple representations in his life.

Reynolds elaborated more on the symbolism of the Green Man. He noted

how in general, the green skin color could be seen as mainly negative and dark, but also positive. The Green Man in Reynolds is the farthest thing from black and white one can get.

“At first he represented everything I struggle with; the devil on my shoulder.

More recently, I have come to recognize that his color is sickness, but also life.

His largeness, overindulgence, but also abundance and apathy,” he explained.

“The answer is usually not one or the other, but a little bit of both.”

Reynolds did not give everything away of what is behind his paintings in the art gallery. He gave some clues as to what some signify; the several portrayals of the Green Man through connections and relationships.

“Drawn,” which shows the Green Man lying in a shopping cart in front of a house in some neighborhood, represents family. Reynolds kept things interesting though. “I like people to have a chance to come up with their own conclusion about the art piece.”

All of the paintings were respectably different. “Floating Fast,” representing the Green Man against the universe, was a favorite among many. Another painting, “One Man,” was quite fascinating and ironic. It was embossed with sixteen faces of the same outline, but each with different hues and colors.

At first he represented everything I struggle with; the devil on my shoulder.

-Trent Reynolds

Jessica Mendoza Corsair Fans and students of art observe his work as they wait for Trent Reynolds to arrive to his gallery opening at the Emeritus College.

Associated with SMC through Emeritus College himself, Reynolds teaches a couple of art classes to the seniors in the program. Besides much praise about his art, some students had praising comments to say about Reynolds himself. Among one of them is Sun Lee. “He is such an enthusiastic teacher and artist.

He teaches us everything step by step very clearly,” Lee said. “Mr. Reynolds is very patient. We can ask him anything. His students here adore him.”

Likewise, Reynolds enjoys his students.

“I love teaching here,” Reynolds elaborated. “There is openness. The senior students are all very caring and they listen. Sometimes they parent me!”

Reynolds’ art techniques are a combination of several steps. He collects

significant images, personal or from the internet, and then combines them in the computer. “I print the resulting composition out on a black and white laser printer in small sections,” Reynolds described. “After gluing the sections onto a canvas I paint on top of them with layers of glazed and opaque oil paint.”

When Reynolds looks at the Green Man today, abundance and growth is what he feels stares back at him. He shared how in the beginning of the process he even hated the Green Man, in terms of the sort of philosophical relationship he had with himself. “However, the more I have come to paint him, the more I have come to just enjoy him,” Reynolds enthused.

The Green Man Paintings exhibit will continue throughout Oct. 15, and is on display at Emeritus College.

06

A&E

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Wednesday September , 

Joaquin Phoenix is “Still Here”

Interpol: Been there, done that

The new documentary involving actor Joaquin Phoenix is amusing, though that may not be a good thing.

By Jonathan Mendoza Staff Writer

By Neelofer Lodhy Staff Writer From Commodus in “Gladiator,” to Johnny Cash in “Walk the Line,” to… rapper?

Joaquin Phoenix finally graces the big screen once again in “I’m Still Here,” a documentary about Phoenix becoming a rapper and leaving the acting world entirely. The documentary was released on Friday, Sept. 10, only through limited release.

The documentary, filmed and directed by Phoenix’s brother-in-law Casey Affleck, goes in-depth from the beginning of his personal struggle to becoming what he truly believes he could be: a rapper.

Though Phoenix is recognized for his great achievements as an actor, especially after being a two-time Academy Award nominee, this whole new persona will wipe your memories clean of who you may have thought Phoenix really was.

The documentary has a running time of about two hours and has no rating, so come prepared.

There is full frontal nudity, foul language, and drug use for days in this piece of work.

In spite of the fact that Phoenix takes this rapper career entirely serious, this “act” will definitely bring the laugh-out-loud moments in the movie theater. Trust me, you won’t be the only one laughing. At one point, Phoenix actually jumps into the crowd during his performance at a club in Miami, when a clubgoer rubs him the wrong way.

The popularity of this documentary so far is due to Phoenix’s perseverance to try and become a rapper. It is the immediate appeal and amusement for the audience, but they also get to experience what Phoenix is really dealing with between the laughter.

The end of the film definitely takes a bit of a serious turn when Phoenix is left disappointed and lost after his club performance in Miami.

He returns to Panama where his father lives in search of some peace and serenity.

Joseph Campanelli, 27, a freelance artist, voiced his opinion on what he thought about the documentary stating, “I wouldn’t recommend it to the average person, but if you enjoyed his antics you might have seen on Youtube, you might get a few laughs out of the movie.

But other than that, it’s sort of a rambling unsatisfying film. It sort if feels like there’s a joke going on that you’re not in on.”

Though the reviews may be mixed, it was a well-put production and will somewhat serve its purpose. But will Phoenix be back, or is he still serious about becoming a rapper? The door is open for a sequel, but we’ll just have to wait and see what he has in store for us next.

Interpol’s fourth self-titled album is unfortunately nothing new.

Change is good. At least it’s supposed to be. By taking chances and exploring other ventures, an artist can display versatility in their own work. Interpol’s fourth venture, in their self-titled album, does not accomplish this feat.

It’s not that Interpol is bad; it’s just that we’ve heard it before. Paul Banks sings like he’s at a funeral, while the rest of the band supports him in creating a dark and dejected sound reminiscent of the post-punk sounds of Joy Division.

By the time you reach the middle of the album, it seems like all the tracks blend together as one. None of them really do anything to set themselves apart from the other in any way.

It’s like listening to white noise on multiple channels. After a certain point, you don’t know the difference between channels two and 12, and none provide a really captivating or memorable experience. And then it becomes apparent what was missing from this album: an actual attempt to take chances as music artists.

On their previous albums, Interpol implemented a variety of different

techniques to create a sound that wasn’t quite like anyone at the time, while staying true to the genre in a salute to the pioneers before them. Stylistic loops, powerful lyrics and a pummeling sound that made it feel like you were tossed in a black hole were just a few of the elements they employed to burst onto the scene and make their mark on an industry that was beginning to forget the post-punk sound in favor of a more modern tone.

“Turn On The Bright Lights” and

It becomes apparent what was missing from this album: an actual attempt to take chances as music artists.

“Antics” were both perfect examples of artistry in their craft. At the same time, they may very well be the apex of a band that provided so much depth and excitement to the genre.

Then came the release of the new self-titled album- that propelled Carlos Dengler to becoming the unlikely face of the band throughout the streets of New York, with his unique style and ventures into other enterprises.

While Dengler stuck around to record

and produce this album, it’s apparent that this isn’t some of his best work. It feels like he had one foot out the door while making it. Instead of staying and trying to perfect his last mosaic, it seems like the album was a rushed effort of a man who wanted to be known for something other than his cool bass lines.

Following a show at Apogee’s Berkeley Street Studio in Santa Monica last week the band was interviewed by KCRW, and when asked about Dengler’s departure the band stated that, “There are always signs. It’s really exactly kind of like that. I don’t think we were shocked.

Obviously, disappointed. He’s a great guy.”

While his replacements: Brandon Curtis, keyboard, and David Pajo, bass, both come from successful bands and are no strangers to the spotlight, it will take some time for the band to pick up the pieces and move forward.

Both are essentially playing and interpreting Dengler’s lines, but after becoming more comfortable with the band they could develop into something bigger than before.

And with a tour coming up alongside U2 in their future, they may be headed in just the right direction. Interpol will definitely be tested in the months to come, and while their most recent release didn’t quite stand up to their previous ones it will be interesting to see the development of this band and what the future has in store for them.

Robyn’s “Body Talk” has little to say Robyn continues her “Body Talk” series with a scintillating “Pt. 2”.

By Julie Newsome Staff Writer When electro-pop queen Robyn announced earlier this year she was releasing a three-part album titled “Body Talk,” fans and haters alike were keen to get their hands on it.

Robyn, who now has her own label called Cherrytree Records, seems to be finding herself in music more and more now that she has power over what exactly she’s putting out there.

“Body Talk pt. 1,” which debuted at #1 in her home of Sweden, is the mellowest of the three, with experiments in reggae and slower beats.

“Body Talk pt. 2,” however, debuts with the spunk and attitude that Robyn is famous for, sounding like something out of a discotheque videogame. And although the energy level of the album is off the charts, the songs never seem to live up to the meaning behind them.

With lyrics like “Stockholm syndrome

and misery is your penalty for love crimes,” one gets the feeling that these are not just your average bubblegum pop songs. Yet with all the intensity, the songs are missing a level of maturity.

Perfect for your typical club scene, the album lacks intimacy with the single listener. Straddling the line between

Although the energy level of the album is off the charts, the songs never seem to live up to the meaning behind them. heartbreak and empowerment, “Body Talk” falls short of achieving legendary status.

The debut single from the album “Hang With Me,” sounds like a cross between old-school Madonna and a more relaxed Lady Gaga. Robyn, who could be called the antithesis of Lady Gaga, is arguably one of the most talented women in her genre of music

today.

She has consistently come out with the most original and heart pumping music. Yet she has struggled to find the immortality of A-lister fame such as Britney Spears and Gaga.

It becomes apparent though that Robyn herself has been labeled as an outsider to where her music appeals mostly to indie and offbeat electro fans. If Gaga were to come out with the single “Hang With Me,” it would immediately be a smash hit.

Regardless of state or stature though, it is apparent which singer exceeds in talent.

Releasing three albums in one year is not a common thing for artists to do, but it does seem to work. The hype behind the “Body Talk” collection has been phenomenal, raising Robyn to the kind of stardom she’s never had. If anything, “Body Talk pt. 1” and especially “Pt. 2” make listeners that much more pumped for “Pt. 3,” which arrives later this year. Expected to be the most explosive and entertaining of the bunch, getting caught up on the first two parts of Robyn’s electro chic-ness is probably a good idea.

Weezer goes one step forward after two steps back “Hurley,” their new release, is okay -- but just barely.

By Sean Hunt Staff Writer If one were to mash together Weezer’s great “Pinkerton” with their terrible “Raditude” album, one would probably get something very similar to “Hurley:” an album that is smack-dab in the middle.

After last year’s terrible release (“Raditude”) and 2008’s lukewarm “Weezer”(The Red Album) many fans were continuing to lose faith that Weezer would ever achieve the greatness of their older music. What we got from “Hurley” was a definite step up for the band, but

only after several steps down.

The first single, and the best song on the album, “Memories” is an ode to the awesomeness that was pre-millennium Weezer. The song is fun and catchy, but doesn’t make itself stand out from other pop rock songs.

Most of the album really fluctuates from the garbage similar to “Raditude,” to fun tunes that lack the special spark, like “Memories.” The second track, “Ruling Me,” showcases Weezer’s ability to still play the high school underdogs.

“Trainwrecks” is a fairly good loser’s anthem; “Unspoken” starts out simple, but later picks up into a fuller song.

“Hang On” is a song that is lyrically simple, but sometimes simple can be okay. It also contains added guitar and

vocals by Michael Cera.

For all the good songs on the album, there are also the terrible and forgettable ones. “Where’s My Sex?” is the most embarrassing song on the album. In trying to capture some of the magic of “Tired of Sex” from “Pinkerton,” Weezer has created the worst song to ever contain the word “sex.”

The song was originally about something else and was changed to “sex” as Rivers Cuomo told Spin magazine. “First, I wrote it all about socks, like the song is all about trying to find your socks and how terrible it is when you’re not wearing socks. And then I just went back and changed a few letters in the word and it became a totally different animal.”

“Run Away” doesn’t stand out at all.

It sits there for three minutes before moving on to “Hang On.” “Brave New World” is another song that fills up time on the album before moving on to the next song. “Smart Girls” sounds like a cheesy knock-off of “California Girls” by the Beach Boys.

The album, however, does end on a high note with “Time Flies” that sounds like a spontaneous group-camping song in a good way.

Does this album signify a change in Weezer for the better? Hopefully yes.

Weezer has made their best album in years with “Hurley.” But the bar was set so low. Even simply releasing an album of constant screaming is still considered better than “Raditude.”

A&E

Wednesday September , 

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

07

Greek Fest

Anisa El-Khouri Corsair The Greece flag, along with several others, wave in front of St. Sophia Cathedral. The Greek Fest took place both in and around the cathedral.

By Michael Santana Staff Writer It’s not unusual to find traffic backed up clear across Normandie Avenue on a Friday afternoon. But upon closer inspection, one would have realized the annual Greek Fest was back in town.

That’s right. Los Angeles’ annual festival, which is now in it’s 12th year, gave way to three nights of Zorba dancing, authentic Greek cuisine and delicious pastries. Kicking things off last Friday at 5 p.m., the festivities continued the whole weekend and boasted attendees of all ages and backgrounds alike.

With loud music coming from the stage upon arrival, people danced and cheered for the performing band while others watched from tables as they ate. On the menus, there are Gyros (beef and lamb served on warm pita bread) and Kalamari, among other things (I ordered Souvlakia - skewers of lamb, pork, or chicken, and opted for the lamb, a first time for me).

Served nice and warm, it was an overall marvelous experience of Greek cuisine.

Once finished with the food, your eyes catch a glimpse of a Ferris wheel at a distance. Walking closer toward it, you

see other carnival rides like the spinning teacups and a giant slide. Parents watch as their young ones’ faces light up.

Meanwhile on another side of the fest, adults without children are at Tunics, a Greek sports bar and tavern, mingling with friends and colleagues. Others are at the wine tasting booth sampling the different kinds of wines. Later that night, people from the audience got up to dance on stage, which was the Zorba Dance Contest part of the evening.

“I love coming to the Greek Fest. The Baklava is to die for,” says Jacqueline Eaton, an attendee standing in line to buy one of the Greek pastries to which she was referring.

On the same menu there is a list of over ten other pastries to choose from, each with a description of what they are. Diples: Pastry puffs drenched in honey, topped with cinnamon and nuts.

Galaktoboureko: a finely prepared Greek custard pie. Above it all, the top of the menu read “Mediterranean delicacies that are truly ‘the best of the best!’”

Vendors selling jewelry politely smiled as one passed their merchandising booths. One of the booths is for a Grand Prize Drawing. Being raffled off: a $2,000

Dream Vacation Package among other prizes, such as a pair of courtside tickets to a Clipper’s game and a large flat screen TV. On the far south side of the festival grounds, St. Sophia Cathedral is open for the public with audio presentations conducted hourly during the day. A beautiful, lavish church filled with chandeliers and paintings along the wall, no wonder it is regarded as “the most brilliant gem in the proud diadem of Orthodoxy,” according to the official Greek fest pamphlet. A sense of serenity fills the large church, a feeling much different yet not less thrilling than that of the celebration going on outside. A few people sit scattered throughout the rows, listening to a presentation of the Cathedral’s history and breathtaking architecture.

Opening night of L.A. Greek Fest seems to be an all around success. With Greek dance workshops and cooking demonstrations lined up for Saturday and Sunday, the following days surely kept the entertainment going. It may be “chic to be Greek,” like the shirts of some attendees read, but it’s also incredibly fun.

Anisa El-Khouri Corsair Music written in Greek is on display as people dance on the main stage.

08

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

P H O T O S T O RY

Wednesday September . 

Remembering September 11 “At the time I was in the military, and was scared by the attacks so close to home, no one saw this coming”

Alexander Gallagher Soltes Corsair “At the time I was in the military, and was scared by the attacks so close to home, no one saw this coming,” said Santa Monica firefighter Jason Frebe. (Left to right) Frebe and fellow firefighter Erik Himler, Rob Edmann, and Ernie Flores stand in front of their fire unit at the Santa Monica Pier during the tribute to fire fighters lost in the Sept. 11 attacks of 2001.

-Santa Monica Firefighter Jason Frebe

(Below) Santa Monica Fire department uses one of their ladder trucks to wield a large U.S flag to remember the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the parking lot of the Santa Monica Pier.

Sammy Soliman Corsair A child poses for a picture taken by his parents on the front lawn of Pepperdine University’s flag display in Malibu.

Sammy Soliman Corsair Uniforms representing police, fire and military personnel were lined up in the sand near Santa Monica Pier, and stand as a mute memorial to the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

Sammy Soliman Corsair

Flags and uniforms were on display at local events to commemorate 9/11

By Zach Frank Contributer

Last Saturday marked the nine-year anniversary of the catastrophic collapse of the Twin Towers, damage to the Pentagon and the hijack of flight 93.

Sympathy for the families of the victims of 9/11 was plentiful during the early years following the disaster, but in recent years the celebration of the lives of those killed and support for their remaining loved ones has decreased.

Patriotism gripped the nation during the aftermath of 9/11. This was evident in the form of the multitude of American flags that were hoisted from government and public buildings to personal dwellings. Red, white and blue ascended over the entire country and businesses came to a stand still.

While it has not even been a decade, this domestic disaster that once produced worldwide attention took a back seat to the Iraq war and party politics in the years following the catastrophe.

This week’s recall of the event reveals less mourning for the victims and more controversy about the cause of the disaster, the legal ramifications of the situation, and ethnic and racial tensions over the establishment of a mosque near Ground Zero.

Sammy Soliman Corsair Emily Frigo and Jeffrey Jarvi stand at ease in uniform at Pepperdinde Universitys’ flag diplay, one flag for each of the nearly 3,000 victims lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

09

10

OPINION

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Wednesday September , 

Headshot a no-brainer LAPD justice: Swift, lethal, efficient, and justified.

By John Stapleton IV Web Editor

Jhosef Hern Corsair

Death by LAPD LAPD, too quick to unleash lethal force in Westlake shooting.

By Zuleima Alvarado Staff Writer While most of us enjoyed our three day weekend, the Westlake community was confronted by a tragedy that sparked anger, violence and protests. But what is all the ruckus about?

On Sept. 5, police shot and killed 37-year-old day laborer, Manuel Jamines. Jamines was allegedly armed with a knife and threatening people in a busy shopping district near downtown Los Angeles.

According the Los Angeles Times, three police officers from the bicycle unit of Los Angeles Police Department’s Rampart division were flagged by a pedestrian near 6th and Union Street. The pedestrian reported that a man with a knife was threatening people in the area. The officers responded immediately and ordered Jamines to drop the knife. According to the police report, Jamines failed to comply with the orders and was ultimately shot and killed.

In the aftermath of the incident protesters have been camped out at the scene with signs reading “asesinos!” or “killers” in Spanish. While public opinion seems to be split, many protesters believe that Jamines was unarmed at the time of the shooting. But

why would an officer shoot a man for no reason? LAPD had to be sure that Jamines in fact did have a knife in order for them to shoot him, right?

The police officers were simply trying to protect themselves. According to the police report, Jamines lunged at the officers, and that's when he was fired upon. What I am against is the LAPD's flagrant use of lethal force. They could have just shot Jamines in a non-fatal area such as the arms or legs. Instead, they resorted to the last option first, which ultimately resulted in the death of Jamines.

Another way this tragedy could have possibly been avoided is through the use of non-lethal weaponry, such as a baton or a stun-gun. While I understand that police are faced with many difficult situations and split second decisions on a day-to-day basis this still doesn’t justify such liberal use of lethal force.

According to the LA Times, an internal investigation is underway to determine what really happened that fateful Sunday. The question remains, however, will that investigation simply be conducted to assuage the concerns of the protesters, or will it perhaps uncover some new and meaningful information. Is there more to the story here? Could it be that the police are hiding something from us, perhaps in the interes of protecting their officers? Unfortunately, we may never know.

Corsair The Santa Monica College

1900 Pico Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90405 Room: Letters and Science 172 Phone: (310) 434-4340 Website: www.thecorsaironline.com Email: corsair.editorinchief@gmail.com First copy of the Corsair is free, each copy after is 25 cents.

Riots, demonstrations, and protests are being organized across Los Angeles over the unfortunate death of one Manuel Jamines, 37, who was shot and killed after being (allegedly) drunk and (verifiably) armed with a knife, and (certainly) threatening the lives of others – I mean, that’s why the cops were called in the first place.

It would seemingly be a no-brainer that if you are walking around in public, carrying any kind of weapon, and making people feel threatened enough to call the police – intoxicated or not – that you’re kind of asking for trouble.

And I’m pretty sure there are policies in place that protect citizens from rogue cops doing drive-bys just for the fun of it. In fact, the officer that effectively neutralized the situation, which he was called in to neutralize, was Frank Hernandez, a 13-year LAPD veteran who, according to the Los Angeles Times, has used lethal force in two other reported situations. Essentially, the cop knew exactly what he was doing.

There were enough lives on the line for him to decide that lethal force was indeed necessary.

Yet, despite the fact that this

officer did exactly what he was supposed to, exactly by the book, people want to throw rocks at the LAPD for being “mean.”

There are two arguments fueling these protests, neither of which makes any sense. One is that Guatemalan immigrant Jamines didn’t speak English, and so he didn’t know that when UNIFORMED OFFICERS were POINTING GUNS AT HIM and telling him to STOP SWINGING A KNIFE AT THEM, the wrongfulness of his actions may have been lost in translation.

Look, it doesn’t matter what

and Police Chief Charlie Beck, they were all speaking Spanish when Jamines lunged at them with a knife raised over his head.

So what’s the next argument?

They were mumbling? I think we can all stop pulling the language barrier card.

Then there is the “they should have just winged him” argument.

If a police officer has to draw his weapon, it is not to look scary or seem intimidating. It is because he intends to use lethal force. He has evaluated the situation, and decided he is prepared to kill a person in order to protect the lives of others. When a cop decides to use lethal force, it is with the intention of LETHALLY FORCING a person to stop doing something dangerous. Not to slow them down. Not to scare them into submission. Not to clip them so they know “no seriously, you’re not allowed to do that.” You don’t empty a clip trying to hit a flailing arm or leg – can you imagine if an innocent bystander was hit while trying to hit a 4” moving target?

Or worse, if the woman that was being threatened by Jamines and her 4-year-old daughter were stabbed as officers took pot shots at the assailant’s limbs? When lives are in jeopardy, and your job is to protect those innocent lives, you don’t take chances.

You aim center mass. You aim head. You put the threat down – immediately, definitely, lethally.

“You aim center mass. You aim head. You put the threat down – immediately, definitely, lethally.” you’re doing, if someone is pointing a gun at you, and you don’t feel like getting shot, the safest bet is to stop doing whatever it is you’re doing.

Beyond the obvious warnings Jamines received, it doesn’t take an ESL class to understand that threatening people with a weapon is probably not something California citizens tolerate. Hell, I’m pretty sure that’s even against the law in Guatemala.

Common sense aside, this is Los Angeles people: the cops speak Spanish. The attending officers were Frank Hernandez, Steven Rodriguez, and Paris Pineda. According to witnesses,

Editorial Cartoon

Fall 2010 Staff Rebecca Slawter Brandon Quin Brian White Sal Guerra Jennifer Martinez Daniel Ross Tieg Slattery Kevin Duron Ingrid Rosales Alica Forneret John Stapleton IV Jeremy Biglow Guiliana Dakdouk

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Photo Editor Photo Editor Photo Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor Calendar Editor Lifestyle Editor Online Editor Exhibit Editor Design Editor

Faculty Advisors Saul Rubin and Gerard Burkhart

Reporters Alexandra Ahneman,Zuleima Alvarado, Miles Arnold, Kylie Blaber, Jonathan Bue, Alessandra Catanese, Emma Dantoft, Kevin Duncan, Rebecca Elgebra, Nathan Endow, Alvaro Escalante, Jennifer Ferrada, Stephanie Forshee, Sharon A. Fox, Khalil Grier, Cyndi Gomez, Wendy Gonzalez, Matt Gottesman, Zineb Hafiz, Danny Henson, Vaimiti Herlaud, Vera Hughes, Sean Hunt, Aasiya Jones, Alexandra Lazar, Neelofer Lodhy, Julie Massecis, Ariana Masters, Cristina Maxwell, Sarah McIntosh, Jonathan Mendoza, Michael Mendoza, Brandon Minikwn, Natalie Miltcharek, Malika Moore, Julie Newsome, Ayla Pound, Audrey Roberts, Adam Rubin, Laysa Quintero, Michael Santana, Stephanie Sommer, Caitlin Trinkle, Vienna Urias, Lauren Walsh

Photographers Anisa El-Khouri, Luana Kasahara, Albany Katz, Danyale Kotur, Konstantin Marowitz, Jessica Mendoza, George Mikhail, Ted Olsson, Michelle Ponder, Alex Rogers, Jarrad Rosson, Alex Soltes, Terrence Timmins

Advertising Consultant Lisa Anderson corsair.admanager@gmail.com Computer Consultant Agnius Griskevicius Graphic Design Jhosef A. Hern Classified Ads: Daily Bruin (310) 825-2221 Letters to the editor are encouraged. They should be no longer than 250 words and must be signed by the writer. corsair.editorinchief@gmail.com

Wednesday September , 

OPINION

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Jhosef Hern Corsair

11

Private lives open to peering eyes

By Ariana Masters Staff Writer Imagine a world where students graduate high school with 4.0 grade point averages, 2400 SAT scores and perfectly met academic requirements, and yet are still declined by universities simply because of content on their Facebook or Myspace pages. This is the world we live in today.

It is becoming an increasingly common practice for universities and colleges to conduct web searches and background checks on prospective students. It’s not just grades and extracurricular activities that count these days when applying to schools, but social networking and criminal histories! Shooting for a scholarship?

Don’t even bother if you’ve been involved in any kind of online tomfoolery.

In a 2008 interview with The Wall Street Journal, Thomas Griffin, director of undergraduate admissions at North Carolina State University, said that schools will resort to checking social networking sites if deemed necessary.

“The school will do an internet search, including Facebook and other sites, if an application raises ‘red flags’ such as a suspension from school,” said Griffin.

“Several applicants a year have been rejected in part because of information on social-networking sites.”

In that same WSJ interview, Nora Ganim Barnes, director of the center for Marketing Research at the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, said that it’s simply a matter of corporations attempting to insulate themselves against liability.

“Everybody is trying to protect their brands,” said Barnes.

“Brands,” a term so boldly used by Mrs. Barnes to describe an academic institution, is ironically proving a massive point, that in this day and age, a university is nothing more than a business.

A major concern for any moneymaking establishment, or business, is liability, and it just so happens that checking up on “status” and “about me,” can help keep those institutions protected.

The most ridiculous aspect of this entire “check up,” is that in the majority of the United States juvenile records are sealed and therefore online checks for incoming high school students are the only sources of character reference.

The only way around this would be for the institutions to engage in a criminal act by obtaining such information on a minor.

SMC student David Feldman believes that this type of background check is frankly unjust.

“I think it’s important to see who is coming to your university and to have an idea of the type of people you’re around, but nevertheless, if I was arrested three years ago for something, it’s none of my professors business.

Your past shouldn’t haunt your education. It’s a human rights violation,” said Feldman.

The only justification for such a ‘human rights violation,’ would be if colleges and universities were getting the information legally and without breaking past account settings. They would technically have the “right” to obtain information made public by the user, a.k.a. “prospective student.”

It is the students’ responsibility to remember that when they put information up online, it is no longer private and other people do have the right to see it.

That said, “character judgment” gained from social networking websites should have no impact whatsoever on a university or college’s determination whether to accept or deny applicants.

In other words, personal content online is in no way a representation of intellectual capabilities or academic potential, and educational institutions should therefore stay out of students’ private lives.

12

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

LIFESTYLE

Wednesday September , 

Steps toward sustainability prove steady

The lecture allowed the community members and students in attendance the chance to take a look at their lifestyles, many of which include never ending coffee cups, plastic water bottles by the thousands, and the act of taking a car a few blocks in place of walking.

After this meeting, it is evident that changing the ways of SMC as a whole campus is a step in the right direction towards changing not only our campus but the world as a whole. The addition of more recycling bins and the restrictions placed on plastic water bottle distribution are those steps already being taken in the right direction.

The lecture stressed the

urgency of applying many changes at the college to address the harmful impact that it’s practices are having on the earth.

Genevieve Bertone, Sustainability Projects Manager at the CEUS, has implemented many sustainable projects throughout SMC. She explains that sustainable development “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations”.

Bertone stressed that it is important for our campus to adapt to the ways of sustainable development in order to make a better future for everyone.

Ultimately we are the ones who should care, for as she says,

“Who’s using the worlds natural resources? It’s us”.

The lecture highlighted Sustainable Works, an environmental education program that was created twelve years ago out of the sustainable city plan for Santa Monica.

It’s purpose is to help people and businesses save money by saving resources. They have been influencing students to get involved as well as to save the environment and have a new outlook on environmentally friendly living.

One of the programs offered by Sustainable Works is Sustainable Crews, which is comprised of 1015 students and one crew leader.

Members meet once a week to learn about environmental issues, get involved in the community, and make new friends. They also receive three hours of community service credit for involvement with the program.

In addition to the lecture series and Sustainable Works programs open to the public, the school has created the Clean and Green Campaign and is attempting to “brand SMC as one of the greenest community colleges in the state” according to Burton.

The American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), is an additional help to the college as a task force within SMC attempting to completely eliminate greenhouse gases being released by the college as a whole within two years.

New solar panels have recently been installed on top of the parking structure as well,

there for three years, but doesn’t really work there.

“I don’t really work here,” he said. And while the history is interesting, and the bar is a landmark, it isn’t what the bar has done that makes it famous – it’s what the bar does.

What Tiki-Ti does is draw huge crowds into a space roughly equivalent to an over-accessorized closet. It brings them from all corners of the US (and keeps them coming, as almost every patron I talked to was a regular). Miami native Denise Contreras said this bar alone is worth the trip she makes to Los Angeles every year.

“I love the Bloody Tiki!”

Contreras said. “I like it because it’s spicy – and bloody! I don’t like a fruity drink. To me, this is the only place in LA where I feel like I’m on an island. I was like oh my God – I’m in the keys!”

No matter what your drink preference, Tiki-Ti’s got your poison. Amid the lava lamps and palm fronds you’ll find a menu boasting over 90 tropical cocktails to lei your tongue with. But one of the best bar-top surprises you’ll find isn’t a plethora of

drinks, but the availability of ash trays. Because the entire staff of the bar also owns the bar, TikiTi skirts the no smoking policy most California bars are forced to enforce. This is handy for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that it actually FEELS like it’s a post-war theme bar, and at the very least, it allows patrons to enjoy the simple pleasure of having a cigarette without vacating the premises.

Imer Vigil has been coming for three years. “It was close to my house before I moved. But I still come for the vibe, the smoke.

Drinks are pricey, but they’re not rippin you off. Everyone here is family. You don’t find bars like this anymore.”

In April, Tiki-Ti will have been creating this kind of allegience for 50 years, which is no small feat for a Hollywood bar. The secret, according to Mike Jr. isn’t the insane drink list, it’s family.

“It’s a neighborhood bar,” he says, “They come here for the drinks, but mostly it’s the friendly atmosphere. I mean, I get moms comin’ in here for when their kids turn 21.”

An appreciation for tiki themed bars runs in the Buhen family, as Mike Buhen (above) inherited the love of the theme from his father Ray, and in turn the devotion to keep the spirit alive was taken on by his sons, Mike Jr. and Mark.

Laysa Quintero Corsair After a summer’s worth of construction on top of the main campus parking garage, the college continues their move toward making SMC a greener and more susitainable campus by utilizing solar energy.

By Ayla Pound Staff Writer In a crowded classroom filled to the brim with Santa Monica students and community members alike, individuals gathered to discuss the many changes occurring at SMC to make it a more sustainable campus.

On Sept. 7 the Center for Environmental and Urban Studies hosted “Making Santa Monica College More Sustainable,” the first lecture in their Environmental Lecture Series. The program is organized to bring to light the many environmental issues affecting everyone on the planet.

By John Stapleton IV Web Editor Fun Fact: Tiki bars – those tropical, Polynesian-themed bars filled with wooden Tiki masks and fruity, umbrella-laden cocktails – are a purely Hollywood invention. Beginning with Don the Beachcomber, which opened in 1934, the trend became a pop culture sensation in the 40’s, as evidenced by the number of Tiki bars still surviving today. But unlike those spinoffs riding the Tiki tidal wave, Hollywood hole in the wall Tiki-Ti is just keeping it in the family.

When Ray Buhen opened Tiki-Ti in 1961, it was after a long career that started as one of Don the Beachcomber’s original bartenders. When Ray finally decided to retire from the bartending business, the ownership of Tiki-Ti was passed down to his son, Mike, who currently shares his shares with sons Mike Jr. and Mark. In fact, the entire operation is familyowned and operated, a point confirmed by volunteer doorman Barnaby Chiong, who’s worked

allowing our school to take the road toward solar energy use.

Aside from the student clubs and school run projects that are being created, professors have begun to push for sustainable additions to the campus as well.

“I’d rather be in my garden than anywhere,” said Dana Morgan, an English professor at SMC. And so began her battle for The Peoples Garden, which is to be created the spring of (this year...what year?) on the Main Campus.

The idea of a community garden at the college was developed by Club Grow. As Morgan says, gardens are an important part of the new sustainable living lifestyle, by allowing individuals the opportunity to grow their own food.

Aside from focusing on the bigger changes made to the school, the lecture offered simple solutions to those who want to help create a greener tomorrow in their daily life. Save money and a tree by bringing your own coffee mug to campus seeing as coffee is only 75 cents with your own reusable mug.

SMC students can also take “Any Line, Any Time” of the Big Blue Bus for free. Refilling water bottles instead of buying new ones, and looking for school supplies with recycled products are more ways to start living a greener life.

With so many ways to make the world of tomorrow a greener place, there is no reason to not get involved. Start making a difference today! As Justine Rembac, AS director of Sustainability said, “Now is the time to make a change.”

Brian White Corsair

13 LIFESTYLE SMC student, Reece Jones, keeps his future up in the air Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Wednesday September , 

President of SMC’s Circus Club, Reece Jones, finds himself in the company of like-minded enthusiasts.

By Vera Hughes Staff Writer Before the camera’s even rolling, 18-year-old Santa Monica College student Reece Michael Jones tosses five juggling balls simultaneously into the air, continuously, with the slightest of ease.

He catches them sequentially, and looks up to the videographer expectantly. As she gives him the cue that the camera is ready, he smiles for the hundredth time, and happily restarts what he calls a “5 ball cascade.”

Jones is of average height, and a happy demeanor but what really sparks attention about him is his hair. As noted by a friend of Jones’, Njoki Gachoka, “this kid has big hair”. He laughs at her remark, and it’s clear that he receives plenty of comments about his luxurious coif.

Beneath his dirty blonde locks rests a constantly smiling face.

Jones has a friendly laugh and gives off an approachable vibe, probably explaining how most of the members of the Santa Monica College Circus Club, of which Jones is now president, became members simply by approaching Jones or other jugglers and performers in the college quad.

Born on Oct. 18, 1992 in Wisconsin, Jones actually spent a recent portion of his life living in Whangrei, New Zealand and that was where he picked up his skill for juggling. Jones explains that his involvement in juggling and circus arts began entirely by “happenstance”.

He took a course within the

Laysa Quintero Corsair Reece Jones can be found on the campus quad, easily identified by many by of his massive bundle of curly locks atop his head. Aside from his unique appearance the hobby that he practices makes him stand out even more.

Home School Group he was When asked how this name was juggling in the quad as early as a part of in New Zealand and chosen Jones simply says, “we the third or fourth day he even learned the tricks of the juggling were idiots being ‘French’ in the stepped foot on campus and trade there. He also picked up first place, so we thought we’d that he’s been involved ever unicycle riding, plate spinning pick a name to match.” since. Now he’s one of the main and other activities as well.

Soon after, Jones came to teachers of juggling at SMC, and His talent for juggling Santa Monica after finishing has become the new President and these of the SMC other skills Circus Club. eventually lead “Even before the club started, he was here [in the F e l l o w to the creation quad, juggling] every day. Just hanging out, seeing m e m b e r of a circus show and SMC in Ireland with who was around. He even posted about joining s t u d e n t , a close friend the club on Facebook!”

Stefanie of his. He says - Stefanie Brilliant B r i l l i a n t , he and Louis believes that McDonald he will do decided, randomly, to take on secondary school in New very well in his new position. the persona of Frenchmen in Zealand to spend some time She says, “even before the club their show. with his dad. It was by mere started, he was here [in the They dressed up in berets and coincidence that he found, and quad, juggling] every day. Just other typically retro French ultimately befriended, a group hanging out, seeing who was attire, spoke in fabulous French of students equally as enthralled around. He even posted about accents and called themselves by the Circus as he was. joining the club on Facebook!” and their show “Les Plonkers.”

Jones says he saw people Stefanie trusts that Jones has

enough passion and enthusiasm for the Circus Club for him to organize and run it smoothly.

Watching Jones juggle is an experience in itself. He manipulates both the juggling balls and the clubs with grace, even if they tumble to the floor.

He is capable of controlling up to five balls and three clubs at a time.

There is obvious concentration written on his brow and expressed in his firm body language as the clubs fly through the air above him, but an immediate smile breaks out across his face anytime he falters or stops by request of the videographer.

The complexity and technicality of the different ways to toss the five juggling balls into the air quickly becomes apparent to any audience.

There are times when he catches two in each hand, with one ball remaining airborne, and others where all but one ball are in the air.

This is exactly what enthuses Jones the most about his hobby. He says that most of all he “enjoys the complexity and creativity” of juggling. He likes to challenge himself with new additions to old tricks, and mentions that he’s nowhere near the world record of number of balls juggled.

Jones is self-deprecating about his obvious talent, even though the surrounding students are all sneaking glances at the show.

“I’m out of practice,” Jones says sheepishly. “I left the juggling balls in Oregon. I haven’t had them in three weeks.”

His humor is infectious, and you can’t help but laugh with him as he loses control of the clubs and gets embarrassed.

With subtle determination, he begins again.

A Taste of the World: Khuushuur Mongolian Dumplings This week Ale brings to the table a traditional Mongolian dish: Khuushuur

By Alessandra Catanese Staff Writer It’s a new week which means a new recipe from a new country. Where did we travel to this time? A country known for being a China-Russia sandwich filler: Mongolia! So grab your ushanka and brush out your beard, we’re cooking some dumplings!

After talking to Khailiun Chinbat, a Santa Monica College student from Mongolia, I found out that fried dumplings, or Khuushuur, is one of the most popular and traditional dishes of the country. Historically, Mongolians would hold them in the palm of their hands «centering» themselves to promote balance and healing.

I had to do some serious mental preparation for this meal, considering it required the difficult task of making dough. Not only do you have

to knead and fold, but you must also keep in mind the proper ratio of water to flour.

The recipe called for four cups of flour, and then water to mix. I started with two cups of flour, added about one cup of water and the salt. Slowly, while mixing, I added the rest of the flower until the dough became thick enough to knead with my hands. Warning: your hands will get very sticky!

The meat is pretty easy to cook. Ground beef can be seared straight out of the packet, with the spices sprinkled ontop and mixed in.

However, I prefer to mix the meat and the spices with my hands before cooking it.

I broke off pieces of the dough, rolled them in my palm and then rolled them out with a rolling pin. After trying a few different techniques, the dumplings went from looking like large empanadas, to being almost the exact size of my palm, and tasting delicious.

Stuffing the dumplings with vegetables instead of meat is always healthier, and tastes just as good!

INGREDIENTS Dough: 4 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt Water to mix Meat: Ground beef Mashed garlic 1/2 teaspoon salt One onion chopped Garlic salt to taste Teaspoon of oil 2 cups oil For the full recipe and an instructional video check out A Taste of the World online at, www.TheCorsairOnline.com.

Don’t forget to let us know what country we should choose next!

George Mikhail Corsair

George Mikhail Corsair After learning from her mistakes with this recipe Ale’s finished dumplings varied in size and texture, but thanks to the flavorful meat filling in the dumplings her tastebuds were satisfied.

14

S P O RT S

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Wednesday September , 

Weekly Professor Breakdown: Steve Carrasco Prof. Carrasco relives his days as a teenage tennis superstar in Mexico

By Ashli Townsend Staff Writer “It feels like another life,” Professor Carrasco uttered quietly as he struggled to remember when tennis first became such an integral part of his life. He opts to sit on top of his desk, eyes closed and face scrunched as he tries to find the path to memory lane. It wasn’t long before a smile reappeared on his face and he said, “Six. I was six years old when I first began playing tennis competitively in Mexico City where I was born and raised.”

Growing up as the youngest to three older sisters who all played tennis competitively, it seemed natural that he would follow suit. “It wasn’t even a choice really,” he joked. But

what started out as an afterschool sport quickly turned into an all out, rigorous training program to go pro.

It wouldn’t be long before he was sponsored by both Pepsi and Adidas. He was that good.

“Eventually I ranked number one in the 14 and under category.

I even won the national singles and doubles championship.

In my age category that is,” he added with an overwhelming sense of modesty.

At a very early age he would travel both nationally and internationally, with frequent trips to the United States. It was then that he would begin to truly feel and completely grasp the scope of his responsibility representing his country.

At the tender age of nine, he understood that representing his country internationally was more than just playing well. “I remember looking at my father’s map of Mexico

and feeling responsible for truly representing my country through my behavior and attitude. I understood the many biases against Mexicans and I felt like an ambassador,” he remarked.

Professor Carrasco realized that for some, he would be their first contact with someone of Mexican descent and he was determined to make the best possible impression. “You know, I still feel that way, 25 years later. This is one of the reasons I teach Film 7, Representation of Ethnic Minorities in Cinema here at Santa Monica College.”

However at age 14, his budding tennis career came to a sudden halt. Despite his international success, Professor Carrasco made the very mature decision that he would not go pro at age 15. “It was a very difficult decision and came as a shock to everyone who knew me,” he remembered about

his life changing choice. He expressed gratitude towards the fact that his parents allowed him to make his own decision, even though it would also greatly affect them as well.

Had he decided to become a professional athlete, he would’ve had to leave school and learn through private tutors. But as he meditated on his decision, he showed wisdom beyond his years by thinking realistically of his future as an athlete. “I’m in my early 40’s now and my career would’ve been over by now. I didn’t want to dedicate my life to something that would be over in a few years.”

One of the things Professor Carrasco loves about his current occupation as a film director is that he could make his best film in his 80s, or in other words, he enjoys the longevity.

For him, the solidarity of film directing parallels that of

a singles tennis champ, and is one of the aspects that drew him into this profession. “I have a son who plays soccer and loves being apart of a team.

That is new to me and I enjoy learning through him.”

Professor Carrasco only plays tennis socially these days and currently lives in Santa Monica with his wife and three children.

Although he and his wife chose not to push a particular sport on their children, interestingly enough they have started to gravitate towards karate.

Regardless of what the sport is, he strongly encourages exposing children to sports at an early age because it teaches core values such as discipline, maturity, learning how to handle pressure. The skills he learned while on the path to athletic success help him in his everyday life, and he encourages all to take up a sport and reap the benefits.

SMC Women’s Soccer takes a loss in their home opener vs. Santa Barbara

minutes than they did in the entire first half. However, it was Santa Barbara that would take over and host a goalscoring clinic throughout the rest of the game. The Vaquero’s substitute Anna Doone started things off with a goal in the thirty-seventh minute, executing off of a corner kick.

Even down one to zero, the Lady Corsairs continued to fight and attempt to tie the score, creating some opportunities that were thwarted with spectacular saves from the opposing goalie.

These included a nearmake by freshman Sarah Barrington on a breakaway and a beautiful outside shot by freshman Olivia Patterson that ricocheted off the crossbar.

The Vaquero’s were apparently impervious to the Corsairs’ early second half offensive surge. With eighteen minutes left in regulation, the opposition scored off an excellently placed cross and followed with another goal that found the side netting.

Catching up with Coach Benditson after the game, he explained that he thought that the first half was a good display of soccer although the second half was something different.

“We need to be more aggressive and stronger physically and mentally,” he commented. His ideal goal for the team this season is to guide them to the playoffs and go deep in Conference.

When on the subject of team philosophy, Benditson replied saying, “Always do your best and show a lot of effort.”

“We just need to score goals, because that’s what you need to win games.”

Look for the Lady Corsairs to bounce back in their home game on Friday at 3:00

Soccer falls at home

By Kevin Duncan Staff Writer

Kostya Marowitz Corsair Sophomore Caitlyn O’Neil (right), wcarried the defense on her back by controlling the middle of the field. The effort would not be enough however, as the Santa Barbara Vaqueros came out on top 3-0.

The Santa Monica College Lady Corsair soccer team learned on Tuesday that you must experience failure to appreciate success. In their third game of the season versus a tough Santa Barbara squad, they gave an encouraging show of hustle: it’s a shame hustle alone does not win games. That unfortunately was the case as the Corsairs fell victim to a 3-0 route yesterday afternoon.

The Lady Corsairs looked impressive in the first half, with the defensive squad matching Santa Barbara’s shutout. Sophomore Caitlyn O’Neil and freshman Cassidy Ragus held down the right defensive side of the field like your favorite pair of paperweights. O’Neil especially showed veteran awareness when she stopped the ball from going into the net after the Corsairs’ keeper was beaten near the conclusion of the second half.

But even the solid defense wasn’t enough to satisfy head coach Aaron Benditson, as he knew they needed to step up their attacking game in the second half.

“Don’t be hitting balls through the air, we need driven balls on the ground that find player’s feet!” stressed head coach Aaron Benditson at the half as he talked strategy with the team.

“Fight for the ball, you have to scrap for it!”

The Corsairs did in fact look more polished when taking the field after the intermission, looking more aggressive and attempting more shots in the first five

S P O RT S

Wednesday September , 

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

15

SMC football hosts block party up four sacks as a group, suffocating the Huskies’ quarterback all night long.

Freshman Brian Hawthorne also shined for the second week

By Michael Mendoza in a row as he pulled down a and Daniel Laget stellar three interceptions for Staff Writer the night. and Contributer “The defense played very well for a second straight week, they On a night where the beads of just rose to the challenge, and moisture on the end zone turf they kept giving our offense remained undisturbed, the rest opportunities. of the playing field at Corsair They don’t complain, they just Field was being torn up in the continue to work, and they’re midst of a dogfight. a reflection of their defensive The dust settled after the coordinator,” said Lindheim.

Corsairs’ kicker Trevor Dionne After holding the opposition drove home a field goal with to under 60 yards passing, 1.9 seconds left on the clock to the Corsairs’ defense forced a steal one against the East L.A. three-and-out late in the fourth Huskies in a thriller. quarter that resulted in East The entire game was a battle of L.A. having to punt with their defenses, as neither team scored backs against the end zone and until late into the third quarter. a scoreboard reading 3-3.

Some say defensive games “East L.A. called a timeout are boring. For Santa Monica so we called in our punt return College, because of defense, team to put something together. this game will I told them be remembered let’s get a as one of the “I told them let’s get a block, recover most exciting, block, recover it, and it, and go even celebrated home,” said go home.” finishes in SMC Lindheim. football.

Corsairs - Coach Lindheim e The With stellar xecuted defense came perfectly, as a stuttering offense, however. freshman Brian Hawthorne laid The ground game was stymied out to get the block and the ball and only tallied up 27 carried was recovered by freshman for only 43 yards on Saturday Brandon Tillis. Giving the night, while the passing squad the ball at East L.A.’s game could only manage to three-yard line, it guaranteed compliment with a 15 for 33 the Corsairs a shot at ending the effort through the air with one game with a field goal. interception.

With the victory, the Corsairs “We’ve got a lot of work to are in first place in the Southern do, we’ve got to sit down and California Football Association figure out what we can and Pacific Conference. can’t do and find a way to Moreover, they are one of put points on the board,” said three undefeated teams in the Gifford Lindheim, head coach conference. of the Corsairs.

However, the team will meet But the real story lied on their toughest rival of the year other side of the pigskin, as the in Santa Ana at home this Corsairs’ defense played like Saturday, in a matchup that is studs. shaping up to be just as eventful The defensive linemen racked as the first two spectacles.

Santa Monica starts the season 2-0 as they top the Huskies of East L.A.

Ted Olsson Corsair (above): Corsairs Running Back #48 Brandon Tillis catching the ball after a punt that was blocked by freshman Brian Hawthorne (not pictured) with less than 3 seconds left of the game in the game versus East LA College. (below): Corsairs running Back #34 Rasheed Omonibeke trying to find an opening in the defensive line against the Huskies.

Ted Olsson Corsair

USC Trojan Football: The burning of the Bush Trojans handed serious sanctions following player violations

By Stephanie Sommer Staff Writer The empire of Trojan football was called into question this past summer, when the evidence mounted that running back Reggie Bush received financial benefits from prospective agents.

From 2001-2009, the University of Southern California regained its status as an elite football powerhouse.

The investigation that had been in progress for years finally yielded evidence confirming that Bush did, in fact, receive financial benefits in violation of NCAA rules. Bush and his family were well aware of the regulations, but ignored them, leaving the Trojans quite a mess to clean up.

Due to this direct violation, the Trojan’s were hit with a two-year ban on post-season

games, placed on four years of difficult fall. This punishment L.A. Times reporter, Bill probation, lost 30 scholarships, seems unfair in that it is an Plaschke, suggested in his and were forced to forfeit their overreaction due to the success September report, “Instead 2004 victories. The Heisman of the program. This penalty of being remembered as an trophy Bush won in 2004 was enforced to prove and arrogant villain stripped of after the Trojans’ national emphasize a point, rather than the most famous award in the championship is has also been just a mere enforcement. Now sport, he can be remembered as stripped. New USC Athletic I understand rules are rules a flawed human being who had Director, Pat Haden, quoted and if not enforced all respect the dignity to admit he didn’t Bush in a recent article by USA and structure will be lost. deserve it.” Bush needs to step down from his high Today, “He told me, ‘If I could turn the clock “If I could turn the clock back, I horse and accept the back, I would. If I responsibility for the could give the Heisman would. If I could give the Heisman chaos he has brought Trophy back, I would,’” Trophy back, I would.” upon the Trojans.

But Haden said he The NCAA saw this -Reggie Bush as an opportunity to never once has heard an open apology.” He prove a point on a large later continued, “ I would say it Technically, the ruling may be scale. If USC had not been such was a conversation of him being just, but why punish a school a football powerhouse, this contrite, not an apology.” The for something one man did? violation would not have been question is, in whose lap does Yes, together we stand, united so harshly carried out. Sure, you this violation lie in? Should the we fall, but there is a point of may say that’s a speculation, institution be penalized for the personal responsibility; why but think about it rationally. No impatient acts of an ambitious strip a program of its pride, post-season games for current college athlete? students of their scholarships, seniors who were looking The higher you are the harder athletes of their dreams and for their chance to shine, the fall. For an empire such as staff of their jobs? Why should incoming athletes counting on the USC Trojans, a hit like this everyone suffer for one man’s the scholarships because they cannot afford the $50,000+ caused their program to have a deliberate act?

yearly tuition, and the athletes who played the 2004 season and fought for their victories.

How is this fair?

Some may insist this punishment is well deserved and Bush and the Trojans deserve to pay, but the punishment seems excessive. In an interview with USA Today, Lane Kiffin told reporters, “We’ve got to many good things going on here, with this team and what they’re doing this upcoming season.

Unfortunately, we end up talking about the past a lot. I’m moving forward.”

In his L.A. Times article, Bill Plaschke proposed an idea for Bush to try and fix what he tore apart, “While Bush is currently banned from associating with the Trojans, he can nonetheless plant his flag in their future by being the only Trojan willing to sacrifice his past.”

The acceptance of the “extra benefits” of Bush, took away the benefits of being a Trojan for past and future players.

16

EXHIBIT

Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College

Wednesday September , 

Albany Katz Corsair Tobias Deml, SMC student, came to America with a dream in mind and it took one film that unexpectanly changed his whole outlook on life as he knew it.

Tobias Deml: The Accidental Director

By Sharon Fox Staff Writer People who know the Santa Monica College film student, Tobias Deml, call him “The Austrian,” just as the wellknown countryman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, was known as “The Austrian Oak.” They both share similarities, as in: both were born in Austria, both are extremely charismatic individuals with highly charged enthusiastic “can do” attitudes, and both chose SMC for their education.

Today Schwarzenegger appears to be living his dream.

On the other hand, “Toby,” as he likes to be called, is just getting started on his journey, happily driving his 1992 lemon yellow Pontiac Firebird towards his dream.

As a teenager in Austria, Deml’s dream was to be animator and work for Pixar. “I love animation because it seems to have its own laws. Learning how to create from nothing, is amazing,” Deml said.

“I was not academic at all. By accident, I discovered a computer program that enabled me to build landscapes and from there I took it to 3D.” He came to the United States to perform his mandatory Austrian military service as a volunteer at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles, where he was a guide and helped digitize library books.

His dream of becoming a 3D animator quickly vanished in the middle of sitting through a screening of “Valkyrie,” a film that changed his life forever. During the film he said he had an epiphany. “I finally found something that brought everything I loved together,” Deml said. From then on he only wanted to direct films.

“I ended up making a film by accident. I came here. I’d never made a movie before. I always wanted to. I was always too stubborn to spend the money on a camera,”

Learning how to create from nothing is amazing...

- Tobias Deml said Deml. “I made a friend, Joshua Knaus, who had a camera and made a movie together that was basically a practice. We went to Venice Beach to film vignettes on all the characters we met.”

SMC Film Club member, Gregory McKraus, ended up editing the footage which produced “Faces Of Venice,” the first of five films Deml has made so far.

“All of my films have been made with zero budgets, except for ‘Faces of Venice’, We paid a homeless man with

a hotdog but, his interview didn’t make the cut,” said Deml.

Soon after, Deml ended up making another film that was made by accident. He and his friend set out to do location for a photo shoot in the desert and instead ended up making a quirky little film that centered the attention on his bright Firebird.

The SMC Film Club has been a great resource for Deml and he’s been a great resource for the club. Film Club member, Larry Skuse said, “He’s one of my favorite people in the club personally and as a professional. He’s really outspoken and very helpful. As my dad says, he’s going to go far.”

What kinds of film does Tobias see himself making in the future?

“Definitely, ‘The Matrix.’ It’s my favorite movie and the kind of movie I want to make. I want to make films that make a difference, that help change peoples lives, and inspires them to take some sort of positive action; the movies where you don’t have family drama or something but they just drive thru with a really strong concept that conveys a completely different world and blows people’s minds,” Deml said.

Some masterpieces come about from epiphanies and interventions but, for Tobias Deml his work was created by accidents and in return transformed into films that impacted the lives of the people around him.

Tobias Deml Contributor From left to Right : “ Ungebremst ins Vergnuegen,” “ Red n’ Wet,” and “ Kingside Beauty”