Volume 103 Issue 11

VOLUME 103 ISSUE 11 MAY 9, 2012 FIRST COPY OF THE CORSAIR IS FREE. EACH COPY AFTER IS 25¢

Enter Parker Jean, new AS President.

"I had no idea I was going to win."

Andy Riesmeyer News Editor Incoming Associated Students President Parker Jean won’t have to go far for leadership advice from outgoing President Harrison Wills.

That’s because they’re roommates.

Even with a ringing endorsement from Wills, victory wasn’t always certain for Jean. “I had no idea I was going to win,” he says, earnestly. “If I thought I would have won, I wouldn’t have campaigned.”

The Texas native beat out Honor Society President Ernie Sevilla and outgoing AS Director of Sustainability Marjohnny TorresNativi in a heated election on the heels of tense controversy over the school’s attempted implementation of self-funded classes, a proposal Jean opposes.

Jean was commissioner for President wills and says he inspired him to run for office earlier this year. “I observed what he did and learned a lot from watching him,” he says. “He really went above and beyond in his position as president.”

Wills endorsed Jean and campaigned with him, which Jean credits as helping him win the election. The two appeared at recent Student Organizing Committee protests together, drumming up support for his platform, which he says is based on “activism and giving the students a voice.”

One of the ways Jean says he’ll help students is through an attempt to restructure the AS. “I’m thinking about rewriting the constitution to give more power to students.” he says. Jean adds that he’d like to delegate more power to the Inter-Club Council, a group that governs campus clubs.

“I’m a little less power-oriented and I think students sense that. I have ideas and goals but I want the students to be able to achieve theirs too.”

Jean says one of the biggest challenges he foresees is figuring out a way to unite the various groups at SMC, including students, faculty, administration and classified employees.

He says plans might include bringing a farmer’s market to the campus, made up of local growers and students. “It’s an opportunity to build community; we’d reach out to SMC clubs to try and get internships for students with the farms.”

Jean says he and Wills have been championing a “sustainable food policy” program for the school that would increase the amount of organic food available in the cafeteria. “It would be a program where we would ask the school to require the vendors to offer a certain amount of organic food,” he says. “If they didn’t adopt the policy, we’d ask the school to not renew their contracts.”

On the issue of SMC’s budget troubles, Jean wants to explore options other than the self-funded Contract Ed program. “It isn’t a solution,” he says. “It’s a bandage on a gaping wound in the crisis of education.” However, Jean says it could be a last-ditch effort to combat cuts only if it was approved through the shared governance [SEE PARKER JEAN ON PG.3] Marine Gaste Corsair Newly elected Associated Students President Parker Jean poses on Tuesday. Jean bested candidates Ernie Sevilla and Marjohnny Torres-Nativi with 49.3 percent of the vote. Jean, who is roommates with outgoing president Harrison Wills, vowed to continue the "student activisim" platform of his predecessor.

“Cheech” charms UCLA Roger Morante Corsair Alexandru Chechir, a former offensive lineman for the Santa Monica College Corsairs football team ('10-'11) received a football scholarship to play for the UCLA Bruins.

PAGE.4

Black Collegians attemp to break world record

Roger Morante Sports Editor It was the third quarter and Alexandru “Cheech” Ceachir, a six-five three hundred pound offensive tackle from Moldova, had blood on his football pants and a smile on his face that exposed his new blue and yellow University of California Los Angeles mouthpiece.

Ceachir had just stepped off the field, helmet in hand, in front of over 13,000 loyal off-season Bruin fans at the Rose Bowl this last Saturday, fulfilling a dream of one day playing on the field for a Division I school.

But the game was only a scrimmage; his true

PAGE.5

"Coincidental grounds keeping," or creative way to silence protesters?

test as a Bruin will come this fall.

“I just love his physical play,” said UCLA Offensive Line Coach Adrian Clemm. “I love his attitude. He’s eager to please and he wants to learn and do good, and he’s so physical.”

Ceachir, who played football at Santa Monica College last fall, committed to playing at UCLA after switching from his initial commitment to play at Utah last December, and the Los Angeles quarterbacks he will soon be protecting are happy to have him.

“I love knowing that he’s there protecting [SEE CHEECH ON PG.7]

PAGE.6

Cinco VaVoom!

PAGE.10

“Pet Lovers” seek to curb overpopulation and euthanasia

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2|CONTENTS

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

EDITORIAL STAFF

Nathan Gawronsky ··············Editor-in-Chief corsair.editorinchief@gmail.com Nathalyd Meza ·················· Managing Editor corsair.managing@gmail.com Andy Riesmeyer ······················· News Editor corsair.newspage@gmail.com Amber Antonopoulos ··Health + Life Editor corsair.lifestylepage@gmail.com Jacob Blackoff·························· A & E Editor corsair.calendarpage@gmail.com Mia Shilpi ······························ Opinion Editor corsair.opinionpage@gmail.com Roger Morante ························Sports Editor corsair.sportspage@gmail.com Paul Alvarez ···················· Multimedia Editor corsair.multimedia@gmail.com Michael Yanow ························· Photo Editor Anisa El-Khouri ······················· Photo Editor corsairphotoeditor@gmail.com David J. Hawkins ························Web Editor corsair.webeditor@gmail.com Nathalyd Meza ······················· Design Editor Alfredo Avila ····························· Design Staff Elham Sagharchi ·······················Design Staff corsair.designteam@gmail.com Jhosef Hern ·································Illustration corsaircartoon@gmail.com S T A F F W R I T E R S Yair Avila, Vanessa Barajas, Christian Carrillo, Peter Cheng, Chelsea Cobbs, Faye Crosswhite, Henry Crumblish, Sarkis Ekmekian, Melina Flores, Dylan Futrell, Chavi Gourarie, Erica Gunn, Robert Gutierrez, Justin Hinton, Tea Jovanovic, Luana Kasahara, Brigette Martinez, Zoryana Melesh, Samantha Perez, Mai Sims, Susanna Svensson, Christinia Sziatinszsky, Cinthia Vera, Israel Villacota, Sophia Villegas, Nadine Weiland PHOTOGRAPHERS Jose Balderas, Daniela Berzuini, Jeff Cote, Sydney Forneret, Marine Gaste, Adrian Galicia, Carrie Jesenovec, Ian-Thomas Kagihara, Asta Karalis, Linda Konde, Guy Mokia, Michael Price FACULTY ADVISORS Saul Rubin Gerard Burkhart AD INQUIRIES (310)434-4033 corsair.adconsultant@gmail.com

Adrian Galicia Corsair A woman walks in front of the SMC Main Stage on May 8.

SMC COMMUNITY! IF YOU HAVE PHOTOS, FEELINGS OR OPINIONS ON WHAT WE PUBLISH, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! E-MAIL, TWEET, OR FACEBOOK US. WE'RE LISTENING! CORSAIR.SUBMIT@GMAIL.COM @THE_CORSAIR CORRECTION: In last week's issue, an article about Van Jones, the article incorrectly states that Van Jones scored a 42 on the LSAT. That was his score on a practice test. On the actual LSAT, he scored in the 96th percentile.

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NEWS|3

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE [FROM AS PRESIDENT ON PG.1]

Parker Jean

program at the college. “I’m battling with it.

It’s a difficult call,” he says. “At the end of the day you don’t want the doors to close but I’m worried about the long term effects a program like that would have.”

He says that he thinks the school will probably try Contract Ed again in the fall. “Community College Chancellor [Jack] Scott ruled it illegal.” he said. Though Scott didn’t actually rule on the program, he did publicly say it was not in line with the community college mission statement.

“If I’m not against it, who will bring it to student’s attention?” said Jean.

Jean says he’d support the program if it was structured to charge more for tuition and fees for students who could afford it. “We’d find out how much they make and take their tuition and redistribute it to students who can’t afford to go here,” he says.

Jean ran at the top of a slate called “Paradigm Shift” that was also heavily endorsed by Wills. Paradigm candidates won 11 of the 13 positions.

All but one member-Parker’s brother Grant

Jean, who ran for Student Trustee- was not elected. “He’s sad about it, but he’ll be around,” Jean says. “He’s not going to let something like this get him down.”

Instead, the position went to Michelle Olivarez, the only winner from the “Hope, Experience & Change” slate. Olivarez is one of three women elected this year, and is the only new member who is pro-Contract Ed. Ernie Sevilla, whose presidential bid found him at the top of “Hope, Experience & Change” ticket, spoke to The Corsair after the results were released. “I challenge them to do the will of the students who voted,” he said.

“Focus should be on tuition fees and classes.

They should keep their personal agendas to themselves.”

Jean distances himself from the accusations that he’s too much like outgoing leader Wills.

“I’d say come and talk to me, they’d know that I’m a lot different than Harrison,” he says.

“We’re different human beings. We’re both passionate about what we believe in, but we have different ways of doing that.”

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POLITICAL SCIENCE

SUMMER SESSION 2012 Open enrollment Full UC Course Credit

Black Collegians attempt to break World Record Tea Jovanovic Staff Writer In honor of singers Whitney Houston and Etta James, 240 people organized by the Black Collegians program of Santa Monica College attempted to break the Guinness World Record for largest "Soul Train" dance during last Thursday’s Club Row. Sunny weather and colorful stands on SMC’s quad representing various SMC clubs created a perfect setting for about 240 SMC students, faculty and other employees to attempt to break the record. The "Soul Train" dance was popularized in the 1970’s television program with the same name. The program was nationally syndicated for over 30 years, and featured prominent AfricanAmerican dancers and singers.

The previous record for the largest "Soul Train" dance is 211 participants. Members who participated wore vintage clothing with colorful patterns and oversized gold and silver jewelry referencing the classic "Soul Train" dances from the 1970’s.

Black Collegians are awaiting confirmation from the Guinness World Records to see if they broke the record.

College President and Superintendent Dr. Chui L. Tsang joined the students during Club Row, and said he enjoyed the carefree atmosphere of dancing and socializing. “Attending the college is not only about learning in class, it is also about students learning a lot from each other and working together, and today’s club row shows that. This is the real college experience,” said Tsang.

Even campus police joined the festivities.

“We are here for the students. We want

to keep them safe, see them graduate and make a difference in the community,” said Bryan Wilson, SMC police officer, after he joined students in the line to help break the record.

The Black Collegians Program at SMC currently has around 400 members. “We want minority people to be able to get together and gain a sense of community while pursuing higher education,” said Roderick Hunter, the president of the program. “We wanted to forget about recent activities at the campus, and have a good time within our community,” referring to protests at the college last month.

Club Row is an event held by the InterClub Council each semester in order for college clubs to spread awareness to recruit new members, as well as raise funding.

Outgoing Associated Student President Harrison Wills appeared at Tuesday’s event. “Santa Monica College is a really great and culturally rich campus,” he said.

“It is reflected in the clubs which all have a purpose and excitement in which they bring people together.”

Members of other clubs also participated in the attempt to break the world record. “This was probably the club that offered the most fun today,” said Jesse Ramirez, newly elected Associated Students Director of Publicity.

Ramirez added he enjoyed dancing at the quad with other students.

Participating clubs included Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance, I.D.E.A.S of SMC, Gender Sexuality Alliance, Red Cross Club, UNICEF at SMC, Students Against Sexual Slavery, various international clubs, honor societies and many more.

SESSION A

JUNE25-AUGUST3

LOWER DIVS

PS 10 Intro to Political Theory PS 20 World Politics PS 40 Intro to American Politics UPPER DIVS

PS 120A Foreign Relations of U.S PS 122A World Order PS M122B Global Environment & World Politics PS 135 International Relations of China PS 141B Public Opinion and Voting Behavior

SESSION C

AUGUST6-SEPTEMBER14

LOWER DIVS

PS 20 World Politics PS 30 Politics & Strategy PS 50 Intro to Comparative Politics UPPER DIVS

PS 140B The Presidency PS 150 Political Violence PS 157 Government and Politics in the Middle East

REGISTER NOW ONLINE www: polisci.ucla.edu email: summer@ss.ucla.edu

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4|NEWS

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Main street businesses see green Chavi Gourarie Staff Writer A gray Capuchin monkey with an orange apron and a face like an old man's was accepting money on the Third Street Promenade. Signs read: “$1 to shake monkey’s hand,” and “No photos.” A fearless toddler wearing pink Crocs held out a one-dollar bill. The monkey, restrained by a leash, hobbled over, took the dollar and stuffed it in the pocket of his smock. Then he held out his hand. The parents captured the moment on their iPhones.

A passerby quietly ridiculed the crowd.

“This is animal cruelty,” he said as he passed, not stopping to make sure he’d been heard.

To most locals, the promenade is the ultimate shopping destination in Santa Monica, with brick roads, street performers, and a huge variety of ways to spend money. But just one short block west and a few more blocks south to cross Pico is Santa Monica’s much quieter (and much greener) Main Street.

Home to the Santa Monica community gardens and a wealth of small businesses, some are hoping to make Main the green shopping destination.

Frank Angiuli owns Natural High Lifestyle on Main Street, where he sells clothing made from sustainable fabrics like bamboo, hemp, and organic cotton.

Near the register of the small shop is a farmer’s market bag with birds stenciled onto it and the words ‘Fly away.’ Angiuli wears light purple pants and a loose white pullover with unfinished seams.

He says the clothing and accessories he

sells are meant to inspire ‘simple living.’

Natural High Lifestyle was one of the first businesses to be certified green by the Santa Monica College Small Business Development Center (SMC SBDC). The SBDC Green Business Certification is administered by Sustainable Works, an active non-profit in Santa Monica.

Although the city of Santa Monica offers its own Green Certification (also through Sustainable Works), it is limited to businesses with more than 5 employees. The SBDC caters to any small business, and covers a larger area than the city of Santa Monica.

The certification program helps businesses green their operations, like energy and water usage, lighting, and waste management. “Our focus is to help small businesses operate more efficiently”, says Michelle King, director of SBDC. Steve Sedlic, a Business Advisor at the Small Business Center, has a background in finance and marketing and believes that being green is in the best interest of businesses. According to Sedlic, many small businesses don’t have the capital they need to invest in energy-efficient products and systems, even if it will save them money in the long run.

Although there are some additional costs that the certification demands of small businesses, such as using at least 30% post-consumer materials for all their paper, “In the end they wind up saving more than they spend,” says Sedlic. “We always save people on water and energy.”

Fresh Lunches, a small business certified by the SBDC, was able to cut energy costs by 25 percent simply by installing plastic curtains in their freezers.

At Natural High, receipts are sent by email, the furniture is from replanned wood, and the bags for your purchase are 100 percent post-consumer material.

Angiuli is working together with some of the merchants on Main Street to coin the area ‘The Green Light District,’ and hopes more of the businesses will join the certification program.

“Green means eco-friendly, but it also means safe, family-friendly. It’s going forward,” says Angiuli. He hopes the green branding will attract visitors who don’t know the area.

On the corner of Main Street and Strand are the Santa Monica community gardens, and just across the street is RAWvolution, a cozy and popular raw food restaurant who state on their menu, “As you eat our food, waves of intention ripple out the doors of our café into the larger world.”

Two doors down is another sustainablefabric clothing store with a sign over the front door that says, “Hemp! Hemp!

Hemp!” The man behind the counter is Daryl Snyder, a Santa Monica College student who is back in school training to be a registered nurse.

He speaks knowledgably about the need to legalize the growth of hemp in the United States.

“They used to make ropes and sails out of hemp,” he says, explaining how durable and strong it is. However, it was outlawed in the U.S. because of its

close relation to marijuana. According to Snyder, corporations who preferred cotton to hemp largely influenced that decision.

Sedlic supports the Green Light District project. He says that even before he started working at SBDC, “just living in the area and hanging out on Main Street, I learned that it was called the Green Light district.”

Right now he’s focused, together with the SBDC, on greening small businesses in the food industry. “There is so much waste in restaurants and in groceries,” says Sedlic. On May 2, the SBDC organized a workshop called “The Simplicity of Sustainability: Green Restaurant Operations made easy,” to educate food-service merchants in the business of going green.

“To me, green is really about intelligent design,” says Sedlic. “It’s about longevity and quality.”

Back on Main Street, passerby Andrea Davidson would agree. “You can make 25,000 products out of hemp!” she says.

She says that in comparison to her native Kentucky, Main Street is at least a 9.75 in terms of eco-friendliness.

Walking with her is Martin Dunkerton, who wears a beanie and a plaid shirt.

He also thinks the area should rate highly on the scale of eco-friendliness.

“Right up the street is Urth Café,” he says in an Australian accent. “Did you know that every time you buy a coffee from them you’re saving a baby gorilla?

Did you see those baby gorilla faces?”

“That’s a ten right there!”

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OPINION|5

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Contract Education and SMC

by Penh Tor - SMC Student It all started a few months ago with the idea of offering private classes at Santa Monica College to help students get the classes that they need to assist them in transferring.

Since these classes are private and supplemental to the current curriculum, these classes would be regulated by a foundation separate from the college. They would cost $180 per unit, so an average three-unit class would cost about $540. These classes would be offered in addition to the classes already offered by SMC. Notice the phrase “in addition.” That’s because these classes are supplementary, which many people don’t understand. They seem to think that these classes will eliminate the state funded classes already offered, and that is not the case. State funded classes are funded by the state. When the state runs out of money, like now, SMC loses funding, and we lose classes. In a time when every college is cutting back classes because our state government cannot balance the budget, my college has decided to find a solution to an existing problem to help students. The solution may not cheap, but it is still a solution.

Most colleges have eliminated their winter and summer programs. SMC is one of the few colleges that still offer a summer program, but it’s only a matter of time before those funds get depleted too. So they came up a solution that will generate the funds to provide classes that aren’t being offered elsewhere. Once SMC runs out of public funds for the summer session, there won’t be a summer session.

Contract Ed offers a way around that. It will generate the funds to provide for classes that we need. But very few

understand this.

When students at SMC protest the “two-tiered” program, most don’t understand what they are really protesting.

Students are being fed a one-sided story by other students that only understand one side of this issue, which became a vicious cycle of misinformation. When you don’t completely understand an issue, it’s hard to make an informed decision, so it’s usually just easier to go with the masses.

Private classes are a great idea. Students can expedite their education, if they want to. There are also scholarships to help those that need it. You can also use financial aid to pay for the classes.

The important thing to consider is that the private classes are optional. You don’t have to take them. For those that can’t or don’t want to take them, you can wait until the next semester to get the classes you need. We already do it.

The community college system in California is one of the most undervalued resources that our state offers. We offer some of the most inexpensive in-state-tuition at the junior college level in America. It’s been this way for so long that the system is being taken for granted. The budget for California’s community colleges is being slashed away, and yet we don’t have a solution to make up for the shortage except to cut classes, which in turn affects the transfer rates and the success of the students.

Recently, the California attorney general’s office has deemed this solution to be illegal, because it violates the state’s education codes. The state’s education code was written at a time when we didn’t have the crisis we are

currently facing.

I would encourage the California attorney general’s office to come to SMC during the first week of any semester and see the crisis students face, and experience firsthand how the budget cuts affect every single student. The conditions we face are not right. The system is dysfunctional and needs to change. There is too much demand and not enough supply or funds for the supply to meet that demand.

This innovative solution offers an alternative to meet that demand.

I am a single mom who works 40 hours a week while taking 14 units at SMC. My cumulative GPA is a 3.58. I have been on the Dean’s Honor List for two consecutive semesters. I finished last semester with a 14 unit load and a 4.0 while holding down a full-time job. You can’t say I don’t know what I’m talking about, or that I’m someone who has money to burn, and doesn’t care about or understand the average student. I am the average student. I’m broke like most college students, but I’m making it work; and if given a chance to take private classes so I can move forward in my educational goals, I will figure out a way to get the money to pay for my education.

A lot of students feel this way too.

I admit that the administration did not do the best of jobs on educating the students on what the program really means and how it will benefit them, so a lot was lost in translation.

But this idea can work, and if everyone understands the complete picture, they will know that this program is very beneficial.

Coincidental grounds keeping or creative way to silence protesters?

Henry Crumblish Staff Writer On Monday, April 30, Santa Monica College groundskeepers spread manure across the grass on the quad and kept the sprinklers running for most of the day.

The intensive lawn care that was displayed was an intentional move by the administration to deter the Student Organizing Committee and avoid further conflicts with campus police and student activists.

After April’s pepper-spraying incident, SMC has received a lot of negative press regarding whether or not the force used by campus police was warranted. SMC was obviously anticipating the presence of student activists on May Day, and successfully managed to hold a Trustees’ meeting without anyone getting hurt.

According to Harrison Wills, the outgoing Associated Students president, “The administration doesn’t care about the student’s voices.” Yet on May 1, the Board heard over two and a half hours of public comments from a myriad of speakers expressing their opinions on the Contract Ed measure.

If the administration didn’t care about what students have to say, they wouldn’t have spread manure on the quad. Whether they were conscious of it or not, they were acknowledging the power that the SOC and student activists’ voices have on campus.

SMC Trustee Judge David Finkel, who attended the meeting on Tuesday May 1, told the audience, “I used to be a civil rights attorney, an old radical—I know what it is to fight.” Based on their actions on Tuesday, the SOC clearly does not.

May Day was supposed to be the SOC's big trump card; the escalation that they

.

promised to bring to the administration was ultimately foiled (read: soiled) by water and manure, which discredits the dedication of the student protesters.

The SOC accused SMC campus police of intimidation tactics on Tuesday, but had they done any research they would have known that setting up tents is against Santa Monica city laws, and is out of the college’s hands.

One must sincerely question the motives of the protesters on Tuesday. What did they expect to accomplish on May Day? Did they really think the campus would allow them to set up a camp right on the quad unopposed?

What would they have done if SMC allowed them to stay? After a couple days, they would have gotten just as dirty as they would from sitting on fresh, moistened manure for one night.

If this is what the student protesters have been planning since April 3, they need a new strategy—or at least they need to decide if they are as dedicated as they say.

The administration responded cleverly and appropriately to the May Day protests.

No one was hurt, and at the end of the day only one tent was confiscated and later returned with no disciplinary action.

The failure of student protesters to anticipate adversity to their causes left them disorganized and frustrated on a day where they believed they had an element of surprise.

Preparation is the key to any victory, and the SOC was woefully unprepared.

Everyone knows the SOC’s stance on Contract Ed, and they say they will not stop until the issue is forever stricken as an option for education at SMC. We all know what the SOC wants, but no one knows what they are willing to do to achieve it.

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6|PHOTOSTORY

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Photography by Michael Yanow Corsair Wrestlers perform during Lucha VaVoom's 'Cinco de Mayan' show at the Mayan Theatre lin Los Angeles. Lucha VaVoom is a two-night variety show of masked Mexican wrestling and burlesque.

Lucha VaVoom: Drinko de Mayo!

HEAVYSET MEN WEARING OUTRAGEOUSLY TIGHT TIGHTS AND ELABORATE MASKS

A remarkable dancer, Karis shook her rump to a lively tune and drove all the men in On the 1000 block of Hill Street attendance (and some of the in downtown Los Angeles is the ladies) wild. Her skills with historic Mayan Theater. The a simple hula-hoop and her once grand movie palace is now unbelievable hip gyrations a nightclub, and plays host to presented this ‘Buxotica’ as a the infamous masked Mexican classic sex symbol. wrestling and striptease known Between burlesque acts, fans as ‘Lucha VaVoom.’ were treated to the main event This Cinco de Mayo, Lucha of heavyset men wearing VaVoom presented ‘Cinco de outrageously tight tights and Mayan,’ a show complete with a elaborate masks, concealing raucous crowd, sexy burlesque their identities.

These were the acts, wrestling matches, and men waging the battle between plenty of tequila. good and evil the bad ‘Rudos’ However, before being allowed and the good ‘Tecnicos.’

The to partake in the festivities, one men smacked each other around had to agree to some terms and the ring for viewers’ pleasure, conditions. The audience took an putting on a fantastic show. oath: “I do solemnly swear that I The Tecnicos - Dirty Sanchez, will not believe what I am about Crazy Chickens and Li’l Chicken to see,” and every time hosts Jeff were priceless acts of Lucha Davis and Blaine Capatch said VaVoom.

With their high-flying “LUCHA,” the audience had to maneuvers, these luchadores respond with “VAVOOM!” protected the audience from the Once the rules were set, the fiesta The Wau Wau Sisters close the night’s performances with an aerial burlesque act followed by a Rudos. sweet and sour striptease in a pool of lemonade to the roar of the crowd. began.

On the other hand, the Rudos The show kicked off with a little Chupacabra, Los Calaveras, and Mexican flare, in the form of Shamu overcame the good forces and Buxoticas (burlesque dancers), good and evil, folklorico dancers in flamboyant a couple times in the ring, but let their wrath be costumes. With a story always attached to these all leading up to the absolute gems of the show, the known when they were defeated. dances, the night’s performance fell in line with Wau Wau Sisters.

Though the show ended at 10 p.m., the party New York natives, The Wau Wau Sisters closed the theme of the night - good vs. evil, with sex continued until 2 a.m., as the theater turned back the show and brought the house down with their intertwined. into a nightclub.

Seeing as it was Cinco de Mayo, In the folkloric dance, the ladies were bunnies, magnificently risqué acrobatic routine that had Lucha VaVoom took advantage of the night. and the men were the coyotes, hungry and ready to audience members gasping and cringing, but Taking the oath (to not believe anything seen) at feast on fresh bunny meat. The dance served as the never looking away. The Wau Wau Sisters used a the beginning of the night prepared the audience, perfect precursor to all the sexy acts that followed. trapeze and their limbs to excite the crowd, and only slightly, for the experience.

The talents of the For about two hours, the audience went back and at the end of their routine, the sisters bathed in Buxoticas and the daring stunts of the Luchadores forth between “lucha” and “vavoom,” wrestlers liquor to “quench the audience’s thirst.” brought out the Cinco de Mayo spirit in full force.

Samantha Perez Staff Writer

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SPORTS|7

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE [FROM CHEECH ON PG.1]

Former SMC lineman stars in UCLA game

me because I know that he’s not going to let anyone through,” said former Loyola High School Quarterback Jerry Neuheisel. “He doesn’t speak that much English, but he’s playing his butt off.”

Clemm was “excited” that Ceachir signed a two-year contract to play on the offensive line at UCLA this last February, and believes that UCLA will have a great season with newly appointed Head Coach Jim L. Mora.

“There is a lot of energy here and Coach Mora has brought an intensity that hasn’t been here in a while,” said Clemm. “We want to have something strong here and leave a legacy.”

Neuheisel, an upbeat and positive-styled quarterback, believes that this “legacy” will come to fruition this fall and that if UCLA has a winning season, it will all start with the offensive line.

“I think we are a lot better than people think we are,” said Neuheisel. “I think we are going to surprise some people with how well we are going to manhandle the line of scrimmage this year. I think when it comes down to it there is nobody in the world that can get by our guys. I trust them with my life and I know all the other quarterbacks do too.”

According to a Bruin sports report published in January of 2012, “the Bruins needed a player who could come in and compete for playing time, and one of the first things that offensive line coach Adrian Clemm did when he arrived on the scene was revisit a player he was recruiting when he was at Southern Methodist University.”

This player was Ceachir who played tackle last fall for SMC. “He was instrumental in our success last year,” said SMC Football Head Coach Gifford Lindheim. “Cheech led the offensive line with his toughness and competitiveness.

Obviously when you lose your best offensive linemen to UCLA you have some replacing to do.”

Clemm has a new role for Ceachir this upcoming football season, and that is playing the role of guard instead of tackle.

Clemm switched Ceachir’s position on the offensive line

CAN CASILLAS DO IT?

SMC Men's Track Team advances to So. Cal Finals Roger Morante Sports Editor The Southern California Track and Field Championships ran at San Diego Mesa College this last Saturday, and Francisco Casillas led the pack for Santa Monica College by qualifying for the finals in both the individual 400 meter and with the rest of his 4X100 meter relay team.

“I was very proud of them,” said Head Track Coach Larry Silva. “It was very competitive here in track and field especially at the junior colleges, it’s incredible. There are a lot of Division I scholarship times and every single weekend they have been posting records like crazy. Francisco had to post a record to qualify and he posted it.”

“We did well in the 4X100 and we advanced to the Southern California Finals,” said Casillas, captain of the SMC Track team. “We didn’t run as well as we should have but we still advanced which is the main goal.”

Anchor leg Marcus Johnson believed the team could have done better in the 4X100, as precious time was lost during the passing of the baton.

“As far as our 4X100 goes, we could have run

out of “necessity,” but switching positions from tackle to guard hasn’t been easy for him.

Ceachir is finding out that he is at the same level as everybody else in the Pac-12 and will have to work hard to stay at the top of the game.

“I need more work,” said Ceachir. “I am not used to this tempo. It’s a huge difference from everywhere. From practice, to film, studies, exercises, lifting, it’s all a new life.

It’s really fast and intensive and there is no one that is special, so you need to work hard to be better then everyone.”

Clemm agreed with the difficulties surrounding Ceachir’s adaption to Division I football.

“Sometimes I can’t coach him on the run like other guys, so it’s a little slower process for him to pick up things because we have to wait until we get off the field to go over certain things,” said Clemm. “There are a few things we need to polish. He has some rough edges in terms of technique and all that, but as we work at that and he picks up on things, I think he’s going to be a really good player.”

The question everyone seems to be asking is, will Ceachir be ready come fall?

“He is just a natural, physical guy but it’s hit or miss with him,” said Clemm. “Some things he understands right now and some things he doesn’t. But I am keeping in mind this is a new position for him and a new system for him and there is a little bit of a language barrier at times.”

Contrary to the popular belief of many, including Clemm, that UCLA acquired a “big Russian bear,” according to a tweet sent by Clemm when they acquired him in February this last year, Ceachir is from Moldova (a former Soviet state between Romania and the Ukraine), and his native language is actually a dialect of Romanian called Moldovan.

But even though his first language is Moldovan, Ceachir has worked hard to understand English in order to fulfill his childhood dream of coming to America to play football, and now that he has his chance to work with his new coaches and teammates, he is quickly winning them over.

“You know what? He’s the man,” said Neuheisel. “I love Cheech. He was a little slow at first, but he’s picking it up

Roger Morante Corsair Alexandru Ceachir will compete for a starting position on the UCLA offensive line during spring practice and into the fall. Cheachir’s natural position is tackle but will be competing for a spot as guard.

better then anyone I’ve seen, and I can’t wait to see him play.”

Ceachir’s excitement at being given the opportunity to play at UCLA bled over to his new offensive line coach and all the friends he was making on the football field.

“Clemm is really good and he knows what he’s doing,” said Ceachir. “He’s tough. He’s explosive. He’s awesome. He is just great and everybody likes him. He is our friend but also our coach in the meetings.”

Perhaps a “tough” coach is what Ceachir needs to keep him at the top of his game and help him rise up to the Division I challenge.

“I feel comfortable,” said Ceachir. “I am going to try and do my best and work hard to show coaches, to prove myself, and we’re going to see what’s going to happen.”

a much better time,” said Johnson. “I took off early because they put blue tape on the blue track and that kind of bothered with my vision a bit.”

In his individual 100 meter, Johnson was actually looking to go faster than his time of 10.66 that he had clocked the week before, but he only posted a 10.80 at the meet, placing fourth in his heat.

“We didn’t run as well as we should have but we still advanced which is the main goal.”

“In the 100, we didn’t have that much luck due to a technicality,” said Casillas. “Our 100 meter, Marcus Johnson, didn’t qualify. He ran fast enough, but they only take the top three in each heat, and he wasn’t able to make it.”

Casillas was able to advance to the final round of the individual men’s 400 meter clocking a time of 48.1, placing second in the heat, and having the fifth best overall time in the individual men’s 400 meter.

According to Silva, Casillas is ranked 7th in the State and most of the fast runners are coming from Southern California.

In order for Casillas to continue, he’s going to have to take at least a fourth place at the Southern California Finals.

“I know he has the capacity to do it,” said Silva.

“He’s run a 46.2 in practice and that would be the 2nd fastest time in the state.”

The Southern California Finals will be held at San Diego Mesa College this Saturday with the top qualifiers advancing to the State Championships at Cerritos College the following weekend.

Marcus Johnson (center) competes in the men's 100 meter. Johnson places fourth in the heat with a time of 10.80 but does not advance to the final of the 100 meter. Johnson will anchor the 4x100 relay in the finals on the second weekend of the Southern California Championships.

Photos by Carrie Jessenovec Corsair Francisco Casillas competes in the 400 meter at the Southern California Championships for track and field at San Diego Mesa College last Saturday in San Diego, Calif. Casillas qualifies for finals with a time of 48.1 seconds in the 400 meter, and currently ranks 7th in the state.

.

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8| HEALTH + LIFESTYLE

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Standard student stress or anxiety disorder?

Nadine Weiland Staff Writer Sweating. Heart palpitations. Dry mouth. Butterflies.

Worrying. Difficulty concentrating. The midterm period is already over, but final exams are only a few weeks away, and these symptoms are common among students.

“Some anxiety before and during exams is natural,” says Dr. Kate Wolitzky-Taylor, research psychologist at UCLA Anxiety Disorders Research Center, and owner of a Westwood private practice specializing in anxiety disorders.

“Some research indicates that a little bit of anxiety or stress is not only normal, but possibly useful in these situations.”

The line between stress and anxiety is very thin, according to Dr. Sandra Rowe, licensed psychologist and coordinator of the Santa Monica College Psychological Services Center.

“When we talk about stress, it’s usually because we feel anxious,” says Rowe. “We can be stressed and anxious at the same time and it would be OK; it would be about good things. But we can also be stressed and anxious because we are not handling our life situations as well.”

Symptoms vary among individuals and depend on the grade of anxiety, according to Rowe. Some people have physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations or sweating, while others have more psychological responses, such as difficulty concentrating or a flood of confusion.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, around 40 million adults in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders, and they are

among the most common mental health problems for college students.

Generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD, is a widespread anxiety disorder, according to the ADAA. Typical symptoms include excessive and uncontrollable worry, muscle tension, fatigue, and irritability. The exact triggers of GAD are unknown, but a family history of anxiety disorders or difficult life experiences might play a role. Other anxiety disorders are related to panic, obsessions and posttraumatic stress.

Wolitzy-Taylor points out that a feeling of anxiety does not necessarily indicate a disorder. However, if the anxiety causes distress and interferes with daily life, a disorder might be a possibility, she says.

“The two main features that most anxiety disorders share are fear and avoidance,” says Wolitzky-Taylor.

“Students who have excessive fear of a situation, object, thought, or image, and who might go out of their way to avoid it in order to reduce their fear and anxiety, may have an anxiety disorder.”

She stresses that a diagnosis should only be made by a mental health professional.

“Most of us know how to handle our anxiety enough to be able to do the things that we need to do in our lives, but some people can't manage it,” says Rowe. “They are so anxious that they can’t, for example, understand what they are reading on a test.”

According to Rowe, more SMC students come to the Psychological Services Center to talk to a professional during exam periods.

“The frustrating thing, I think, for a lot of students, is

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they come in, they are already stressed, and they want to be fixed,” she says. “We can teach some techniques, but these things take time.”

The center helps students with stress management training, and offers tips on how to reduce stress level.

Students can learn breathing and relaxation techniques that might alleviate anxiety, through listening to calming music, attending yoga classes, or learning how to meditate.

“That’s really the best approach,” says Rowe. “You learn how to manage your stress now, so that when you become stressed, you are prepared for it, and it becomes a part of your normal activities.”

According to Rowe, people should discover what kind of relaxation techniques work best individually. She also claims that regular exercise, healthy food, and adequate sleep can all help to reduce anxiety. If natural remedies do not work and anxiety prevails, Rowe recommends consulting a professional to identify effective treatments.

Wolitzky-Taylor states that a common treatment for an anxiety disorder is cognitive behavioral therapy. The therapy involves identifying anxiety-provoking stimuli, and then confronting them.

“This is a life lesson,” says Rowe. “There are always going to be experiences that are stressful—in school, at work, when you have a family—so you have to learn how to manage yourself.”

For more information on different kinds of anxiety disorders and tips on how to cope with them, visit www. helpguide.org.

SMC students unaware of available medical care

®

Susanna Svensson Staff Writer Free stuff always seems to catch people’s attention. Condoms and candy did the trick for eight Santa Monica College speech students who conducted a survey on campus in the beginning of April. In a little over an hour, the group, named Team Awareness, got 187 students to fill out an anonymous survey about the SMC Health Services Center.

The survey showed that most students know the location of the Health Services Center, but are unaware of the services offered.

“A lot of us in the group didn’t know about the health center to begin with,” Team Awareness member Emily King said. “I’ve been here for two years, and I had no idea that there is a health center here.”

Of the students surveyed, only 21 percent had taken advantage of the center’s services.

“Every single student is paying the health fee, so they should be aware that they are paying for it and that it is there for them,” said Georhanna Cabrera from Team Awareness.

The required health fee gives SMC students access to all services offered at the center.

Effective this summer, the health fee will increase by $2 per semester, to $16 in the summer, and $18 in the fall.

“We are here for the students,” said Gloria Lopez, registered nurse and coordinator of the Health Services Center. “Our main mission is students’ success. You can’t succeed if you’re sick.”

Included in the health fee are over-thecounter medications, emergency treatment, first aid, nursing assessments, medical referrals, personal counseling, and brief therapy.

“A thing as simple as Tylenol—instead of buying it from the bookstore, you can just walk in,” King said.

“The fee pays for the medication,” said

.

Lopez. “Our focus is illness prevention.”

The Health Services Center also provides students with free birth control and condoms, blood pressure screenings, blood sugar tests, tuberculin skin tests, and HIV/STD testing.

“We’re going to promote the HIV/STD testing days,” King said. “We want to post flyers and have snack tables and kind of feed people through the direction of the health center.”

Administered by Common Ground Clinic, the HIV testing is offered every Monday between 2 and 4:30 p.m., and on some additional days. The testing is performed using an oral method, and is completely anonymous.

“Kids think that they don’t need to get tested, [and] that it will never happen to them, but you know, it does happen,” said King. “So it’s just a regular thing to keep track of.”

Conducted by the Westside Family Health Clinic, limited gynecological services, including pap smears, are also available at the center. According to Lopez, the services are limited in that they are offered only on two Thursdays a month to students who do not have health insurance. Those with insurance are referred to the clinic.

“We also have immunizations that we give at cost, like the flu vaccine,” Lopez said. “When you get ready to transfer, if your admitting school says you have to have measles, mumps and rubella vaccination, then we have that too.”

Lopez also explained that the Health Services Center does not charge students extra for the immunizations. Students pay what the vaccines cost, and the center does not profit from them, according to Lopez.

The Health Services Center is located at the northeast corner of the Cayton Center next to the cafeteria, and is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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HEALTH + LIFESTYLE|9

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Battling the deadliest form of skin cancer Vanessa Barajas Staff Writer At the age of 25, Hillary Fogelson did not know that she would soon have cancer.

Fogelson is a melanoma survivor who was just diagnosed for the third time last summer. She now makes it her mission to inform the public about the dangers of overexposure to the sun through her organization Pale Girl SPEAKS. Melanoma is the “most dangerous form of skin cancer,” and out of all cancers, skin cancer is the most common, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

“From 1970 to 2009, the incidence of melanoma increased by eightfold among young women and fourfold among young men,” states a recent study by the Mayo Clinic.

When Fogelson first discovered that she had melanoma, she documented that year in her life as a way to cope with the stress and collect her thoughts. She then published those thoughts in a book entitled “Pale Girl SPEAKS: A Year Uncovered.”

“I want[ed] to know everything there [was] to know,” says Fogelson. “I want[ed] to know that I [could] make educated and informed decisions. I was in a place where it was difficult to meet people who were going through what I was going through, let alone people my age.”

Melanoma occurs within the cells in the skin that produce pigmentation, according to the Mayo Clinic.

“Approximately 70 percent of these cancers arise from normal-appearing

skin, while the remaining 30 percent arise from an existing mole,” states the Mayo Clinic.

Existing moles that change in color, shape or size, or those that begin swelling or bleeding, should not be ignored, according to the Mayo Clinic, as these changes could be signs of melanoma, which could spread into deeper layers of the skin, and ultimately into the organs.

Although vitamin D deficiencies are sometimes associated with a lack of sun exposure, doctors do not recommend direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

“Not much [sun] is really recommended,” says Kasey DrapeauD’Amato, a physician’s assistant at the Santa Monica Dermatology Medical Group. “People should really avoid direct sun exposure. All sun exposure leads to damage of the skin and potential skin diseases. You really don’t want to get sun, especially during 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest.”

D’Amato says that tanning lotions with an SPF of 30 or higher are recommended.

“A person should apply about the size of a golf ball for the entire body,” says D’Amato. “It should be reapplied after swimming or sweating almost immediately.”

Fogelson believes that it is important to begin safe sun practices with young children.

“With [my kids], we get dressed, brush our teeth, and put on sunscreen every morning,” she says. “My girls are very

fair, so when they go swimming, I give them long-sleeve rash guards to wear.

It’s important for them to know, not in a scary way, but to have the knowledge to protect themselves.”

Fogelson, who infrequently used tanning beds throughout high school and college, believes that tanning beds are harmful to young people.

“Tanning beds have UV lighting, and it’s damaging to the skin,” says D’Amato.

“It exposes the skin to radiation, causing cells to change, and can potentially affect existing moles. Any UV radiation exposure is damaging to the skin.”

According to the SCF, ultraviolet radiation is a proven human carcinogen.

A media report from the International Agency for the Research on Cancer states that melanoma risk is 75 percent higher when ultraviolet tanning beds are used before age 30.

Tanning lotions and instant spray tans are methods of obtaining a “summer glow” without ultraviolet radiation exposure. Jergens offers a line of lotions that give skin a “natural glow.”

“The great thing now is that there are so many alternatives, such as spray tans, and other options,” says Fogelson. “The spray tans are quick, easy, and look more natural, as opposed to tanning beds, which I think don’t look as great, giving you that orangey-reddish color.”

Treatments for melanoma include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and experimental procedures such as immunotherapy, according to the Mayo

.

Clinic.

The SCF states that the survival rate for melanoma is 99 percent if caught early, but only 15 percent if the cancer has progressed. Melanoma can often be effectively removed by surgical excision if detected before it has spread, according to D’Amato.

“There still isn’t a cure for melanoma, but there are some medications that have recently become approved to help aggressive stages of it,” says D’Amato.

“Melanoma can be deadly, but now with some of the newer treatments, people are becoming more aware and getting checked more often.”

Fogelson continues to spread her advice about sun protection through social media, offering product and clothing suggestions on Twitter. To her, education and prevention is key.

D’Amato recommends that people get checked at least once a year.

“If someone gets a lot of sun exposure, then it should be at least twice a year,” D’Amato says. “If there is a history of melanoma in family genetics, or if there appear to be unusual moles, those people should get checked every three to four months.”

May is melanoma awareness month, and Fogelson hosted the Miles for Melanoma at Universal Studios event with the Melanoma Research Foundation on Sunday.

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10| HEALTH + LIFESTYLE

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

"Pet Lovers" seek to curb animal euthanasia â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is the most humane thing to do for animals born into a world that has no room for them,â&#x20AC;? Huling says.

Animals that live in shelters too long often suffer from malnutrition, disease and trauma, which are more painful results, according to Huling, that are generally associated with a feeling of neglect. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our average length of stay was over seven days the last time we calculated it,â&#x20AC;? says Barnette. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We do not kill for time, only for space, to avoid overcrowding and other problems, such as dog fights.â&#x20AC;?

According to the ASPCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, three to four million animals in the U.S. are euthanized, more than half of sheltered animals overall.

The society also states that of all cats and dogs currently under ownership in the U.S., only 20 to 30 percent were adopted from shelters and rescues.

The California Pet Loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license plate will contain the phrase â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spay & Neuter Saves Lives,â&#x20AC;? as well as a painting

Christina Sziatinszky Staff Writer

of a dog and cat. The artwork displayed on the plate was created and donated by former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan, whose inspiration stemmed from the dog and cat that he and his wife adopted.

According to its website, 7,500 plates must be preordered before July 1, 2013 in order for production to begin. As of May 4, 4,870 spots have been filled. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the main things the [license plate] will do is raise awareness,â&#x20AC;? says Huling. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People who are driving will see these license plates, and understand that neutering is a lifesaving necessity for pets.â&#x20AC;?

Other organizations also do their part to save animals from being euthanized. Kitten Rescue finds volunteers to house rescued cats and some dogs until they are adopted.

Every Sunday from 12 to 3:30 p.m., Kitten Rescue partners with Petco, located on Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica, to showcase several of their rescued animals at an adoption event.

Dexter is a five-year-old pit bull that was left by his owner at a local Los Angeles City shelter just over a week ago.

Along with many others like him, Dexter now spends his days sharing a kennel with other dogs, leading a relatively tedious life.

When entering the West L.A. shelter, it is impossible not to notice the overwhelming smell of animal feces, and the sounds of barking or crying dogs hoping to catch the attention of a passer-by.

These are the living conditions of many abandoned, abused and stray animals like Dexter that are brought into local shelters. Due to limited space and overpopulation at many of these places, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;putting downâ&#x20AC;? of animals is a common occurrence. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is estimated that there are about 17,000 healthy, adoptable and treatable pets killed in our L.A. City shelters each year,â&#x20AC;? says Brenda Barnette, general manager of several L.A. City shelters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are working to end that unnecessary killing.â&#x20AC;?

In an attempt to help stop the euthanizing of sheltered animals, several animal organizations have been trying to launch the new California Pet Loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s License Plate, available for purchase at the DMV. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The proceeds from the license plate will go into a fund to increase statewide spay and neuter to prevent so many pets from entering our shelters,â&#x20AC;? says Barnette.

Involved organizations include the California Veterinary Medical Board, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Humane Society, among others.

According to PETA, shelters cannot humanely house and support all sheltered animals until their natural deaths. The animals would be forced to live in cramped cages or kennels for years, where they would likely become lonely and stressed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The answer is easy and practical,â&#x20AC;? says Ryan Huling, PETAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manager of college campaigns and outreach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Neutering prevents more animals from being born; therefore less animals will end up abandoned in shelters. It is life-saving.â&#x20AC;?

Huling, who believes euthanizing is currently Roger Morante Corsair necessary, claims that though animals experience Kiki, a one-year-old domestic shorthair cat, waits to be adopted at a Petco on Wilshire Boulevard on May 6.

Though it was warm at the adoption some discomfort during the process, it is less event, Kiki was shivering inside of her cage because "Kiki does not like cages," according to volunteer Ie Hineno, who hopes this friendly lap cat will be painful and less dangerous than the alternative. adopted soon.

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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT |11

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Restaurant workers’ organization advocates labor rights Emilia Reyes Staff Writer The sound of knife blades being sharpened weaved in and out of interview and conversation sound bites, as a discussion was held on Thursday, May 6 at the Pete and Susan Art Gallery on the current conditions of restaurant workers in Los Angeles.

Two long sheets of metal were nailed across the wall of the gallery, and directly below them, a steel cart held pots and pans of all sizes. On the metal sheets were scattered pieces of paper with different quotes.

Meant as a revelation of restaurant workers’ thoughts, one of them read, “You can’t ask for a raise. If you ask, if you demand, they’ll show you the door."

After seeing her partner go through wage theft, discrimination, and indifference for many years as a restaurant worker, Christina Sanchez was motivated to create "Break/ pausa," an innovative artistic project meant to be a “dialogical investigation” into the lives of immigrant restaurant workers living in Los Angeles.

“My partner has worked in the restaurant industry for 14 years and has experienced overtime pay violations, shifts without rest, and split shifts without compensation,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez explained that her project is aimed at engaging the most hidden and marginalized people of this workforce, the workers behind closed doors, “through informal interviews, performative interventions, and dialogue.”

In collaboration with the Restaurant Opportunities Center of Los Angeles (ROC LA), she plans to expose unethical employers and assist the lives of restaurant workers who aren’t aware of their rights.

The voices heard during the discussion were sound bites from interviews taken from restaurant workers who volunteered to have their voices heard while at work. At the

event, ROC LA members were not shy to share their experiences in the restaurant business. One member stood up in front of the podium to speak of his experience, saying his life had taken a different turn since he joined ROC LA. Hugo Aleman said he had gained a lot of knowledge and Michael Price Corsair understanding of the workplace from the Christina Sanchez, founder of the Break/pausa project, gives intructions training he has received for the collaborative performance piece at the Break/pausa project and through ROC LA. Restaurant Opportunities Center of Los Angeles joint-show held at the Pete & Susan Barrett Art Gallery last Thursday. Break/pausa and ROC LA put on According to Aleman, the show to raise public awareness about restaurant workers rights. he has learned through his education that caring workers’ surveys, 30 workers’ interviews, 33 for others doesn’t mean you can’t care for employers’ interviews, and government data yourself as well. analysis - all resulting in the following: “I have enriched myself with a different The median wage among L.A. restaurant experience. I saw the opportunity to care workers is $9.24 per hour. Forty four and about someone else, and how they can move one tenth of a percent of workers have up, without going through the same struggle experienced overtime violations, and that I have gone through,” Aleman said. 89.4 percent of restaurant workers do “There are many people like me that don’t not receive paid sick days; white workers know of their rights.” disproportionately hold the higher paying According ROC LA National High Road restaurant jobs in L.A. Immigrant workers Coordinator Cathy Dang, ROC went make a median wage of $9.50 per hour, national after the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. while white workers have an average wage of During that time it had become difficult for $12.91 per hour. many in the restaurant industry to find wellAccording to Dang, ROC LA has about paying jobs. Dang became part of the staff 400 members, and they plan to gain more of ROC LA after working in the restaurant by approaching workers on the street and industry and being unhappy with her informing them of bartending and fine working conditions. dining classes offered for free through ROC “I experienced the hardship of the worker, and LA to low wage workers. Meanwhile, ROC now I want to change the industry,” Dang said.

LA members continue to attend meetings According to ROC LA’s website, a and special events to help spread the word comprehensive study was conducted in about the services provided to restaurant 2011 called ‘Behind the Kitchen Door.’ workers and the change they aim to achieve The research consisted of 502 Los Angeles in the restaurant industry.

$10 TUESDAYS

Falafel King Karolin Axelsson Staff Writer In Westwood Village, at 1059 Broxton Ave., lies a little joint called Falafel King.

Being a fan of Middle Eastern food, I decided to take this week’s $10 budget to check out their schwarma’s secret recipe that I recently heard great things about.

Walking in, I was hoping to get someone to spill the secret ingredients in the spice blend on the spot, but of course that did not happen; I just got suspicious looks when I asked about it.

I gave kudos to the little restaurant for having a few tables outside in the sun, on their rather nice and not too busy street as the inside was not a hit. The place was somewhat bare and rigid, quite unlike the food they were serving.

On the interior stood a counter with different sides to accompany your order, and on the wall behind, a vertical spit was rotating their acclaimed grilled meat.

Some white tables were placed inside, with nothing but salt and pepper on them.

As the interior didn't have much to offer, this restaurant did serve tasteful falafel and schwarma, a Middle Eastern dish where lamb, beef, or chicken is grilled on a rotating spit, usually served in pita bread with salad and dressings, or on a plate with traditional sides.

A schwarma pita sandwich cost $7.50, and was served inside pita bread, with

salad, meat, and tahini - a mild tasting sauce made from sesame seeds. The dish was served in a simple basket with deep fried potato chips on the side. Unless you have a soft spot for deep fried, the chips were just plain greasy.

The meat made Falafel King a place to revisit. With their secret mix of seasoning, the meat is given a deliciously distinct taste that has a hint of cinnamon and cloves.

If having your food served in a basket is not your thing, go for the schwarma plate.

At $8.95, it came with the secretly seasoned schwarma, a pita bread on the side, and the choice of three additional sides. Among the sides were rice, vegetable mixes, pickled turnips, hummus, bulgur salad, Israeli salad, and more.

If asked nicely, the men behind the counter will give falafel instead of one of the sides. I recommend this; after all, the place is called Falafel King. Their falafels justified the name, with a mix of grounded garbanzo beans and vegetables, and a thinly fried surface - soft and not too spicy, just as a falafel should be.

Yay! – Their hummus was creamy and homemade.

Nay! – Should have skipped the greasy fried potato chips.

Stay tuned folks, next week I will continue the tradition, taking my $10 student budget on a new culinary adventure!

CORSAIR CALENDAR Masters of Dance Zippora Karz will host the final free lecture and dance class of the ‘Masters of Dance’ series. Karz was a former NYC ballet soloist, and will lead SMC students in an advanced class in the Balanchine tradition.

A discussion of her memoir, ‘The Sugarless Plum’ will follow.

May 10 @ 10:30 p.m.

SMC Gym 104 first come, first serve (wear comfortable clothing) (310) 434-3467 www.smc.edu/academicprograms/dance ‘Cosi’ fan tutte’ The SMC Opera Theater and SMC Symphony presents Mozart and DaPonte’s classic, in Italian, with English subtitles.

Starring Gregorio Gonzalez as Guglielmo, and directed by Shana Blake Hill. Artistic director, Gail Gordon, and symphony director, James Martin will lead the ensemble.

May 10 – 12 @ 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

May 13 @ 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Broad Stage $35 ($20 with SMC student I.D.) (310) 434-3005 www.smc.edu/eventsinfo ‘The Renaissance of Mata Ortiz’ Screening of Scott Petersen’s documentary about an American anthropologist, Spencer MacCallum who discovers a hidden gem in Deming, NM. MacCallum buys three pieces of pottery in a second hand store in Deming, and goes on to discover the artist, Juan Quezada, who creates an ancient form of ‘Paquimé’ ceramics. A discussion with Petersen will follow.

May 12 @ 3 p.m.

SMC Airport Arts Campus 2800 Airport Ave., ceramics arts building, Rm. 170 Free Admission

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12|ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Black Collegians aim to break the Soul Train world record

Jose Luis Balderas Corsair Santa Monica College police officer, Bryan Wilson (left), and student, Russel Brown, dance across the Soul Train line.

Ivan Feign, Mui Wo, Hong Kong, B.F.A. photography student

Marine Gaste Corsair Members of the Black Collegians Program attempt to break the world record for the largest Soul Train line during Santa Monica College's Club Row event. The record is awaiting confirmation from the Guinness Book of World Records.

You still have time.

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Jose Luis Balderas Corsair Students dance during the Soul Train line record breaking attempt.

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