Photos By Livia Wippich Corsair Garden Equipment Operator Julian Martin has being working at Santa Monica College more than 30 years. Julian is one of the employees at Santa Monica College who might be affected by the cutting of jobs in the winter session.Friday, Sept. 14, 2012. Santa Monica College, Santa Monica, Calif.
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Parking Enforcement Andrey Steele has being working at Santa Monica College for 11 years. Andrey is one of the employees at Santa Monica College who might be affected by the cutting of jobs in the winter session.
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volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
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Ground Man Sergio Cardenas works at Santa Monica College for 1 year. Sergio is one of the employees at Santa Monica College who might be affected by the cutting of jobs in the winter session.
Classified employees prepare for cuts andy riesmeyer & ruth mavangira News Editor & Staff Writer
Julian Martin started working as a groundskeeper at Santa Monica College more than 30 years ago. In 1982, the gas he put in his hedge trimmer cost $1.25 per gallon, there was no Bundy campus and Ronald Reagan was the President. Thirty years later, Martin, who has been tending to plants at the school longer than most of its students have been alive, still arrives on campus early and stays late. Martin is but one of hundreds of employees who perform the non-teaching and non-administrative functions of the school. From building technicians, to office staff, to parking attendants, together they are the “classified employees.” But their livelihoods could soon be in
jeopardy, as the college predicts furloughs and layoffs for classified employees if Proposition 30, a tax-initiative set to increase funding to California schools, fails in November. “It’s unfortunate that the timing is what it is. We are all waiting on pins and needles for Prop 30,” says Bruce Smith, SMC public information officer, adding that no decisions would be made until then. Building technician Kevin McAllister, 55, says a reduced classified work force at the school could have a big impact on the already stressed staff. “We have one certified plumber, one carpenter, two electricians and three HVAC technicians [who] are responsible for the maintenance of the over nine
SMC evacuates buildings alongside Pico after suspected gas leak
David J. Hawkins Corsair Fireman Wenger enters Drescher Hall with gas metering equipment as students wait outside the building.
million square feet covered by 27 buildings,” McAllister says. “[SMC] is my home. I feel confident that they can’t let the groundskeepers go,” he says. “But if Prop 30 fails right now, things are different, I’ve been doing this work for over 32 years and it would be very challenging to find a new job.” Fred Zimmerman, 70, who has has been an electrician at SMC for over 17 years, claims that attempts toward the privatization of the school system actually began in the 1970s. “It’s wealthy corporations who wanted to make public sector employees villains by saying that we are lazy and don’t do our jobs,” Zimmerman says. “We are going to keep fighting!” Even with a bleak future, some employees are still optimistic. Audrey Steele, an 11-year SMC parking enforcement officer says, “I’m not going
henry crumblish Staff Writer Students, faculty, and campus visitors were evacuated from the premises of Santa Monica College on Monday after the odor of natural gas permeated throughout the school. The odor allegedly stemmed from a teaspoon of mercaptan that was spilled by the Big Blue Bus company in the afternoon. Mercaptan, which is known for its putrid stench, is often added to natural gas for safety reasons, such as making gas leaks easier to detect. Big Blue Bus announced that the chemicals were released into the air at their Bus Facilities at Lincoln Street and Broadway Street, and that wind currents wafted the unpleasant smell to the school. Simultaneously occurring with the chemical spill was a power outage, which left Drescher Hall and the business building without power. The outage caused Drescher Hall, the business building, the administrative building and Admissions Complex to be evacuated. The buildings were evacuated for approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Backup generators were activated in roughly the same amount of time.
to cry ‘doomsday’ yet. I am going to be positive.” For 11-year custodian Pam Carter, 53, the future is dependent upon Proposition 30. “If it doesn’t pass, I’m losing a few months out of the year, and it will be hard on my family,” Carter says. “That is why I am going to vote for Prop 30.” Though classified employee Sergio Cardenas has worked at SMC for only a year, his sentiments are the same. “The way I feel is there is always a way and a solution,” says Cardenas. “We need to mediate things. This is my livelihood and I hope we can sit down at the table.” The college is set to begin talks with the union in the next few weeks, according to Smith. The Classified Employees Union could not be reached despite several calls from The Corsair.
However, classrooms as far as the science building were affected, as students could be seen covering their faces with jackets and t-shirts attempting to escape the rancid smell. At 1 p.m., bookstore employee Elease Juarez called for an evacuation of the building over the P.A. system after being advised to do so by campus police. “They told us if you feel it’s unsafe to be in the store then go ahead and leave,” said Juarez. “We were told to go where the gas was least prevalent, so we waited in front of the library.” John Rogers, who works in the cosmetology department, was unfazed by the abrupt commotion. “Students always escalate things,” said Rogers, who believes students in the business building may have exploited the apparent danger to get out of class early. “Students always want it to be a terrorist attack or something spectacular—it was a hot Monday afternoon and young people want to go home,” said Rogers. Rogers didn’t feel the abundant additive odor was ever an immediate threat to faculty or student safety. The incident illustrated SMC’s current or apparent lack of preparation in the event of an actual gas leak.
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2 contents
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
E D I T O R I A L S TA F F Nathan Gawronsky······ Editor-in-Chief c o rs a i r. e d i t o r i n c h i e f @ g m a i l . c o m Amber Antonopoulos···Managing Editor c o rs a i r. m a n a g i n g @ g m a i l . c o m Amber Antonopoulos·· Health & Lifestyle c o rs a i r. l i f e s t y l e p a g e @ g m a i l . c o m Andy Riesmeyer·············· News Editor c o rs a i r. n e w s p a g e @ g m a i l . c o m Samantha Perez··· Arts & Entertainment c o rs a i r. c a l e n d a r p a g e @ g m a i l . c o m Muna Cosic················Opinion Editor c o rs a i r. o p i n i o n p a g e @ g m a i l . c o m David Yapkowitz············ Sports Editor c o rs a i r. s p o r t s p a g e @ g m a i l . c o m Ian Kagihara··········Multimedia Editor c o rs a i r. m u l t i m e d i a @ g m a i l . c o m Paul Alvarez··················Photo Editor Marine Gaste················ Photo Editor c o rs a i r p h o t o e d i t o r @ g m a i l . c o m Nathalyd Meza··············Design Editor c o rs a i r. d e s i g n t e a m @ g m a i l . c o m c o r s a i r s ta f f Fernando Baltazar, Nathan Berookhim, Kristine Bettencourt, Tiffany Bingham, Peter Cheng, Kou Collins, Samantha Conn, Henry Crumblish, Natalie Delfino, William Duggan, Rachel Duron, Tina Eady, Skya Eiland, Alberto Fernandez, Harrison Garcia, Amy Gaskin, Graham Gilmore, Ryonn Gloster, Jennifer Gomez, Esteban Gonzalez, Deandre Hamilton, David J. Hawkins, Sam Herron, Annjelicia Houston, Zach Johnson, Eugene Jones, Richard Lewis, David Madrid, Juan C. Martinez, Ariana Masters, Ruth Mavangira, Raphael Mawrence, LeAura McClain, Manuel Mejia, Elizabeth Moss, Wayne Neal, Mikaela Oesterlund, Daniella Palm, Molly Philbin, Syney Pitcher, Shawnee Potts, Scott Roush, Allie Silvas, Rachel Spurr, Alex Vejar, Anilec Vita, Merissa Weiland, Livia Wippich, Michael Yanow, Arezou Zakaria FA C U LT Y A D V I S O R S S a u l Ru b i n & Gerard Burkhart A d I n q uiries : co rsai r. admana g e r@g m ai l . co m (3 1 0 ) 4 3 4 - 4 0 3 3
Michael Yanow Corsair An unnamed girl plays in the water fountain on Sunday, Sept. 16 at Douglas Park in Santa Monica, Calif. High temperatures resulted from high pressure hovering over the Southern California and air from the Nevada desert flowing west blocking cooler from the Pacific Ocean. Santa Monica pier set a new record with 87 degrees on Saturday.
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This is a notification from the Associated Students of Santa Monica College - Your Student Government.
WE are here to serve YOU. As the Associated Students of Santa Monica College, it is our job to make your campus life richer, easier and more memorable. We are a Student Government comprised of students just like you that are dedicated to help their fellow students. There are still challenging positions available: Make a change and stop by at our office - you could soon be working in the A.S. too!
The A.S. Fee & What It Does for You When you enroll in your classes at SMC, there is an A.S. Fee of $19.50 on your receipt. This fee is used to finance those services and events that the Associated Students negotiate and organize for you. Because you pay the A.S. fee, you can:
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Associated Students Board of Directors now accepting applications for the following three vacancies: 1. A.S. Director of Activities 2. A.S. Director of Sustainability 3. A.S. Secretary Application Deadline Tues. Sept. 18, 2012 @ 6:30 PM Visit us online @ www.smc.edu/associated_students For instructions on how to submit your application. The A.S./ Student Life office is located on 2nd fl. of the cafeteria next to the Cayton Center. For more information related to Student Life opportunities feel free to contact our A.S. Director of Publicity, Jesse A. Ramirez at (310) 434-4965
Campus Committee Positions Available You represent the student body when making decisions on various committes that include: Curriculum, Budget Planning, Facilities Planning, Technology Planning etc. Come to the A.S. Office to submit an application! You can find us, the Associated Students , in the Cayton Center, 2nd floor.
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volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
AS, VP debate financial solutions molly philbin & william duggan Staff Writer Executive vice president of Santa Monica College Randal Lawson appeared before leaders of the Associated Students Monday to discuss possible solutions to the budget crisis and the elimination of winter session. Lawson said that the administration understands and sympathizes with students whose progress has been affected. “I think we’re all sad and disappointed that any classes had to be cut at anytime,” Lawson said. Lawson also emphasized that although winter session was originally designed to accommodate extra demand after removal of caps on enrollment, there are simply not enough resources to continue the program without jeopardizing spring, summer and fall sessions. Former AS president, Harrison Wills, attended the meeting and spoke during the public comments section. Later, he sat behind the board and spoke directly to Lawson as he addressed the officials. Wills, who is roommate to the current AS president, Parker Jean, has pledged to remain an active member in championing causes he from his administration. The former AS president challenged Mr. Lawson’s contention that the college did not have the funds to pay for the winter session. “We have extra money for a rainy day and it’s hailing out,” Wills said in an interview. Wills proposed using up to $3 million from both the college and AS reserve funds to pay for the shortened class sessions. SMC used reserves to pay for winter session last year. The exchange between Lawson and Wills recalled tensions that mounted between administrators and students over Contract Education. The program, which was designed to offer more classes at cost rather than at state-subsidized rates, led to student protests. Jean does not regret the opposition the program faced because he believes that it was a “step in the wrong direction” for the long term. “If they implemented the program it would have been terrible,” Jean said. “If students are paying it themselves, then the
Campus Happenings .
WORLD PREMIER of “Caesar’s Messiah: The Roman Conspiracy to Invent Jesus” will be at the Laemmle Music Hall Theater, 9036 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, Friday September 28, 2012 through October 4th. 310 478 3836.
Amy Gaskin Corsair Associated Students president, Parker Jean (right), listens to Executive Vice President Randal Lawson. Lawson addressed the AS Board to explain the history of the winter session at Santa Monica College and the decision to cut it this year on Monday.
government’s not going to.” Jean said that it’s a “shame” that the decision was made to cut winter session, but he believes that it reflects state budget and that there needs to be a collective focus on the future budget. At the meeting, Lawson pointed out that the college is running an operating deficit of $4 million, and only a set number of SMC classes are funded by the state. If the administration had kept winter semester, sessions from fall and spring would have offered fewer classes. London Tran, AS director of academic support and shared governance, believes that SMC could handle their budget better, alluding to salary raises among the faculty. “I just want a solution to be found that
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will better students and get rid of this downward spiral,” Tran said. Students, faculty and administrators are awaiting the outcome of Proposition 30, which would increase the state sales tax and income tax on the wealthy to fund public safety and education. The newly adopted budget is staked on the passage of the proposition, and should it fail to pass, deep cuts could take effect. If Prop 30 does pass, Lawson said that winter sessions could be restored relatively quickly, within two to three years. Beyond the cuts themselves, the AS leaders voiced their suspicion that most students on campus don’t really understand why winter session was cut, and that some simply don’t care. Without understanding the budget
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crisis, students eligible to vote may not fully grasp future consequences within the college if this Prop 30 is rejected. “I don’t really feel like it matters to me because I don’t take winter classes anyway,” student Steven Mayorga said. “Do I think it’s fair? No. But I think people can transfer without winter.” The AS has yet to propose any solutions to the cutting of winter session, but all are disappointed. Tran said that SMC is the most fortunate community college in California, but understands the school’s decision. “I’m disappointed that the opportunities are not there, but we can’t have everything all the time,” Tran said.
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volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
Financial Aid increases allie silvas Staff Writer
The familiar long lines outside the Financial Aid Office at Santa Monica College have grown longer in recent years, partly due to an unexpected jump in applicants greater than the rest of the nation, according to numbers released by the school and the federal government. From 2007 to 2012, applications nationwide have increased by 80 percent, but at Santa Monica College, they have more than doubled, according to the college. Financial Aid and Scholarships will provide more than $45 million to SMC this year, according to a report presented at a Sept. 6 Board of Trustees meeting. Many of the students applying for financial aid at SMC often stand in line for over an hour to turn in required paperwork or meet with advisers. In the first week of school, Kristi Leong was no stranger to the line outside the Financial Aid Office. She stood in several times and said she left the office feeling unsatisfied, knowing that she would have to rejoin the line again the next day. Even after a student has met all the requirements set by the Department of Financial Aid, it takes six to eight weeks for their file to be reviewed, according to the office. Students seeking Federal Work Study have to wait up to eight weeks for their official letter before they begin work. Although it seems that the gradual increase of FAFSA applicants would not come as a surprise to the SMC Financial Aid Office,
Amy Gaskin Corsair Joanna Anderson and Darius Fennell, both in their first semesters at SMC, wait in the long line at the Financial Aid Office on the Santa Monica College campus on Tuesday. At approximately 12:15 p.m., there were over 110 students waiting in line.
this year’s spike in students was unexpected according to Teresita Rodriguez, vice president of enrollment development. Applicants for FAFSA have been increasing at an average annual rate of 4.7 percent from 1997-98 to 2008-09, according to the financial aid website. However, in 2011-12, the number increased 13.8 percent. The increase in applicants at the SMC Financial Aid Office caused the office to
close its doors to the public for several days in order to make a dent in the paperwork. On the state level, the California Student Aid Commission reported that $1.5 billion of grants were awarded in 2011-12. The grant funds have been divided among 341,925 recipients. Not only are more students seeking financial assistance, there are also more people pursuing higher education. In October 2011,
68.3 percent of students who graduated high school earlier that year were enrolled in a college or university, just below the record high of 70.1 percent in 2009, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2007-08, 47 percent of students were receiving federal aid, and an additional 18 percent were receiving another form of financial assistance.
Does online education deal with budget cuts? tina eady Staff Writer Amid the ongoing talk of budget cuts and fewer class offerings, the lure of online education with virtual classrooms could offer a respite to vanishing seats in the physical world. But is it really saving academia money? Are the rumors that the school is turning to online classes to deal with the budget cuts true? A resounding no, according to numbers released by the state and Santa Monica College. In a report from the Board of Trustees, reduced availability in distance education at SMC mirrors the same trend of reducing courses and sections, yet the demand for online classes remains high. The college offered 725 online classes in the 2011 to 2012 school year, a drop from 779 the previous year. The drop is attributed to hybrid classes, where students take most of their classes online but still attend some class meetings. However, SMC’s distance education enrollment clocks in a little higher than the state at 12 percent of students attending classes on the Internet, said a report from the SMC Office of Institutional Research. According to the school, online classes provide more flexibility for students’ schedules, reduce traffic and parking volume at peak hours, and free up spaces in traditional classrooms. But the research also indicates a gap in the retention rates between students in distance learning and students in face-to-face classes, with many of the faculty and students skeptical about the value and legitimacy of the delivery method. “I took a music course online; I couldn’t really understand some of it,” said SMC student Brian Lee. “I don’t think that was a good class to take online, and I had to spend over 50 bucks on a CD that I haven’t listened to since.” However, some students like Alexa Buiton, who took
history, business, and counseling courses, enjoy the online option. “It’s more straightforward and less work for me, and you can communicate with the teacher better,” she said. “The classes are taught more direct and to the point.”
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According to the California Community College Chancellor‘s Office, distance education courses made up only 0.63 percent of all course sessions in 1995-96, with the trend jumping to 9.6 percent today. The state Legislative Analyst’s Office, which makes recommendations to the legislature on fiscal policy, found that students who complete distance education courses learn as much as those taking the same courses in person. Almost 19,000 online classes are available to California students at four-year, community college and technical college levels. At SMC, all but four departments offer online education: Theatre Arts, Cosmetology, Dance and Math. Although maintenance costs are reduced by the lack of physical classrooms, technology costs, according to the college, make up for the difference. “It is not the solution to the budget, because we’re funded by the state, and online classes comes out of that same budget,” said Trustee Louise Jaffe. School administrators say that teachers are paid an additional fee to set up the online delivery of the course. The budget crisis compels colleges to reduce expenses and online education allows instructors to carry more students by either increasing class size or the number of sections, or swap out more expensive teachers with less expensive ones, a report from the Chancellors Office said.. The report from the Chancellor’s Office suggests that the schools implement a fee for students who take online courses that would be used by the schools to conduct studies aimed at finding how to raise retention rates. The Legislative Analyst’s Office report indicates that instructional costs for distance education and on-site courses are similar, but that campuses can’t deliver the same quality of support services to online students as they do for students on campus, and that colleges need more uniformity to ensure academic integrity. /thecorsairnews •
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opinion 5
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
SMC’s Distance Education goes a long way henry crumblish Staff Writer
In today’s fast-paced world where technology rules, it is no wonder that online classes, otherwise known as Distance Education, has become a prominent part of Santa Monica College’s educational agenda, as a part of a growing technologybased environment. Within the past five years, the demand for Distance Education has more than doubled, and during the 2011-12 school year, 30 percent of enrolled students had taken an online course throughout the year, according to the Board of Trustees. “With more than 23,000 course enrollment seats, online education represents close to 12 percent of SMC total credit enrollment for 2011-12.” But learning is more potent by sitting in a classroom, staring at the professor lecturing while students are scribbling notes in their notebooks, rather than staring at a computer screen without the sound of the professor’s voice and pens meeting paper. Distance Education is beneficial to students because of the freedom it allots those who have multiple obligations such as work, childcare, and other responsibilities that keep them from attending an oncampus class. Distance Education is also a great option for students who have no means of convenient transportation, and therefore choose to stay home and take their courses. Students, who become unsuccessful in adding an on-campus class, can always take DE courses as a secondary option. “Online classes also provide the District with a nimble solution to adding additional classes if necessary without having to consider the logistics of classroom availability and room conflict databases,” states the BOT agenda. “The majority of my time goes to working. I’m very rarely on campus,” said Kaili Gregory. Gregory who has taken online classes at Irvine Valley College finds SMC’s distance education more intuitive.
Gregory is currently taking a Music 32 class online. “I prefer to take this class online since I don’t need the professor constantly,” said Gregory. “There are some subjects such as math and English I would never take online.” According to the California Community College Chancellor’s office report: “In 2009-10, DE sessions increased by 93 percent to represent 9.6 percent of all educational sessions offered.” But, SMC’s best and brightest alumni forged their successes by attending oncampus classes, and SMC would not be such a successful transfer college if it didn’t offer a wealth of high quality on-campus classes. In fall 2011, SMC DE classes had an 81 percent retention rate compared to an 85 percent retention rate from oncampus classes, according to the BOT statistics. Distance Education courses had a 66 percent success rate compared to a 69 percent success rate for on-campus classes. Melissa Runalfson, a second-year psychology major, is taking her first online class, while attending SMC. “I like the structure and the way my professor has his classes planned. It’s very interactive,” said Runalfson. “I think it’s more responsibility to take an online class. You really have to discipline yourself,” said Runalfson. With winter session cancelled, students will be in a fight for more classes in the remaining semesters, giving DE classes more reason of importance for SMC students. Distance Education classes will enable more students to take courses they need for graduation, and take some burden off of their shoulders, should they be unfortunate to not be able to add oncampus classes. Distance education has come a long way since its inception, but still faces challenges relating to its constantly changing nature: Identifying student cheating, and calculating online professors’ skills and curriculum are the main points.
Illustration By Jhosef Hern
“The District continues to work with the Distance Education course management system Pearson (eCollege), to support a growing community of student and faculty users of online education,” states the BOT. While distance education is now a realistic option for students seeking higher education, it should be reserved for those who need it, and not be sought after by those who can’t be bothered to attend oncampus classes. Distance education is at its highest demand for SMC students, and with the absence of winter session, more students will
undoubtedly consider the rapidly growing program, making DE courses even more popular in the future. But SMC would be remiss to ever make distance education their primary focus for educating students. If faced with the decision between choosing an online or on-campus class, it is always recommended for students to take on-campus classes for the whole educational experience, unless certain circumstances and rational reasoning make online classes a better choice for a student.
Three strikes and you’re out All 112 California community colleges are mandated to comply with the newly developed course repeat policy, states the SMC website report. The new policy mandates Completing a required course at Santa Monica College with that California community colleges no longer allow more a desired grade is like hitting a home run for any student. The than three attempts at taking a class. Even getting a third blissful feeling of completing a course is always a welcoming attempt will be tougher than before because it will require one, but if the course is not completed satisfactorily the first a counselor’s approval. time, then that’s one strike against the student. If it’s not “At a time when we are having such difficulty in providing completed the second time, that’s another unwanted strike enough courses for students, we just don’t feel it’s right to and a third strike will set the student far back with their have somebody repeat a course four, five, six times, and educational goals. then individuals who are seeking it for the first time can’t get in,” said Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott to the California Watch. After failing to complete a course on the second attempt, the student will have to see a counselor and ask for special consideration in order to take a course a third time before things get really difficult. Depending on the students’ circumstances, permission can be given or denied. If permission is denied, then students will need to take an equivalent course at another community college in order to complete the needed course. No one wants to find himself or herself in that position, so it is vital to complete a course in the first three given chances. Community college regulations generally allow students to retake academic or vocational classes up to two times in an effort to make up for bad grades or withdrawals, according Illustration By Jhosef Hern Annjelicia Houston Staff Writer
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to the Legislative Analyst Office 2011-12 budget report, “In such cases, districts receive apportionment payments (general-purpose monies) all three times from the state. For “activity classes,” however, regulations allow districts to receive apportionment funding for up to four times (the initial enrollment plus three repeats) regardless of a student’s grade.” California Community Colleges Board of Governors President Scott Himelstein said in a statement that “budget cuts have forced us to ration education, and we are currently turning away hundreds of thousands of students from our campuses that want to pursue a degree, transfer to a four-year university or get job training so they can get back into the workforce or advance in their current career.” Trying to get a class at SMC is now harder than ever because of the budget cuts and a plethora of other cut backs. This policy makes it a little easier for those trying to enroll in a class for the first time to actually attain a class they need. This policy is fair and should be taken very seriously. Students will have to be extremely careful when deciding if they want to drop a class. They will also have to be aware that they cannot retake “activity classes” more than four times due to funding. The worst case scenario would be to take a failed or uncompleted course at another community college, which is inconvenient. This is the main consequence to keep in mind when selecting classes and making sure to complete the classes first time around. To be safe and avoid the unnecessary stress of retaking a course or asking for an appeal to retake a course for the third time, it’s best to plan ahead and really be conscious of the classes that must be completed to graduate and transfer. /thecorsairnews •
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6 photostory
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
Contestants participate in NerfWar TurfWar at Stan Lee’s Comikaze at the Convention Center in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday. Comikaze is a comic book, anime, gaming, Lee urged fans to “Join the Comikaze army! Earn your rank! Make your mark!”
KAPOW!!! elizabeth moss Staff Writer
Stretching 35,000 square feet, the Zombie Apocalypse obstacle course, commanding the left side of the L.A. Convention Center, stood shrouded in dim light. Reaching the top of the wall, there aren’t many places to go. Flesh-eaten figures in blood-tainted rags staggered across the caged arena in search of civilians trying their luck over camouflage walls and down slides ten feet high. It was survival of the fittest at Stan Lee’s Annual Comikaze Expo, a pop-culture convention from Sept. 15-16 featuring special appearances by comic book and silver screen celebrities among a sea of booths catering to every comic connoisseur’s taste. The weekend opened with a panel featuring Lee, also known as Stan Lieber, the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics. Panels throughout the day veered from the silly to the psychological with subjects such as “Random Encounters’ Videogame Musicals”
Stan Lee’s Comi army takes over
and a discussion of the pros and cons of time travel. Lee, whose namesake is on the title of the event, was all fun and games when being interviewed on stage. He was all over the place, bouncing in his chair one moment, laying his head on the table to listen to a fellow speaker the next. He spoke in jest, most of the time. “It’s a lot like Comicon, in terms of the people here,” said Paul Roman Martinez, designer of one of the show’s advertising posters. Martinez refers to cosplay, a term used for folks who dress up as characters from their favorite movies or comic books. Doctor Who, Poison Ivy, Link, and others ran amuck most of the show. On the south side of the floor, Quidditch players from UCLA and USC feigned left and right in an effort to throw bludgers (dodge balls) through three vertical hoops on either side of the concrete field. The game, based off the sport with the same name from the Harry Potter book series, attracted large crowds. The most interesting people seemed to hang out in
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the food court, where a piece of p of chips cost ten dollars. That was Katniss Everdeen from “The Hun and Merida from “Brave” hung o inside to show off their costumes. “Cosplay people never buy a Winters, co-owner of Triptych Boo to ruin their costumes.” Winters of series Trigger Men, a self-publis best friends who are hit men. Lik artist there, he attends most othe “We’ve met a ton of amazing peop The main floor was jam packed w goers craning their necks while for $40 signatures. In one instanc Walking Dead” star Norman Ree a whole block of booths. After the last panel concluded crowd and teased, “You know, i maybe we’ll come back next year.”
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photostory 7
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
A zombie actor waits for humans on the Zombie Apocalypse course at Comikaze on Saturday. Zombie Apocalypse entails humans being chased and terrorized through a large snaking obstacle course by zombies.
Michael Yanow Corsair
Michael Yanow Corsair , sci-fi, fantasy and horror expo hosted by the legendary artist.
Michael Yanow Corsair A vendor sells comic books on Saturday.
ikaze r L.A.
pizza and a small bag s where a convincing nger Games Trilogy” out before going back . anything,” said Kyle oks, “They don’t want is also the co-creator shed comic about two ke almost every other er comic conventions. ple,” he said. with booths and Kazewaiting in long lines ce, a line to see “The edus wrapped around
d, Lee addressed the if everyone’s worthy, ”
Sam Herron Corsair Artist Stan Lee signs autographs for fans at Stan Lee’s Comikaze on Sunday at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Lee is known for being the creator wide range of comics which include Iron Man, Spiderman and The Incredible Hulk.
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+ Lifestyle 8 Health
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
826LA promotes creativity in young minds
Amazon now charges sales tax on California purchases elizabeth moss Staff Writer
Photo Courtesy Of 826LA Student Kimberly Coro receives homework help from tutor Britt Storrs on June 11 at 826LA in Venice.
merissa weiland Staff Writer Children arrive at the blue, art-deco style building from all over the region. Some take the bus from miles away. Others are dropped off by their parents from across town. Many walk directly from their nearby schools. These children are eagerly entering the Venice location of 826LA, a non-profit organization that provides a multitude of services to youths ranging from age six to 18-year-old high school seniors. This free program encourages students to tap into their creative sides. In addition to providing tutoring services, 826LA houses classrooms of students—some even from as far as Arizona—to go on field trips, take screenwriting lessons, and join various creative writing groups such as storytelling and book-making. 826LA, originally called 826 Valencia, was created by author Dave Eggers and educator Ninive Calegari in the Mission District of San Francisco in 2002. Eggers and Calegari became aware of the need for students to receive one-on-one help with homework and creative writing. “There’s writing throughout everything that we do,” says Lauren Humphrey, a Santa Monica College student involved with volunteer outreach. “[Programs] like this tend to only be available to those who can afford it. But we want everyone to fall in love with creative writing.” Humphrey says that although the program is funded by grants and private donations, the backbone is the volunteers. “We try to have at least 10 volunteers for every tutoring session,” says Humphrey. “If we didn’t have volunteers, we couldn’t do any of this.” Kelley Lonergan, a long-time volunteer, describes the atmosphere as both fun and rewarding. GAPCOM_SMCorsair_8_2012_Layout 1 8/29/12 10:36 AM Page 1 “I see the kids grow both physically and academically,” says
Lonergan. “I get to be kind of like a kid again. It really brightens my day.” The children enjoy coming to 826LA for tutoring as much as the volunteers enjoy providing it. “I was getting mostly C’s and D’s and no homework help,” says Kimberly Velasquez, a 14-year-old Venice High School student who began receiving tutoring help three years ago. “Now I’m getting A’s and B’s. I love coming here and expressing myself through writing.” Velasquez’s half sister, nine-year-old Citlali Rodriguez, agrees that the environment is conducive to learning. “It’s fun to have what I write be put into a book and read aloud in front of people,” Rodriguez says. “I have made friends with the volunteers here. Lauren [Humphrey] is nice and fun.” Volunteers and students are not the only involved members of 826LA. Some big names have contributed to the organization. Judd Apatow belongs to the program’s Advisory Board, along with J.J. Abrams and Fiona Apple. Apatow hosted a benefit in June, with all proceeds going to the program. The benefit included musical and comedy acts such as Paul Reubens, Peter Frampton, Ray Romano, and Bob Newhart. 826LA in Venice is one of two Los Angeles locations, with another facility in Echo Park. The organization also has locations in six other cities, including Boston, Chicago, Washington, D.C., New York City, Seattle, and the original 826 Valencia in San Francisco. With hopes to expand to even more cities, 826LA recognizes its unique position in promoting positive influences to students from all walks of life. “You’re not just a tutor, or someone who helps with homework,” says Humphrey. “You’re being a positive example of someone who cares about education. This has affected kids from other cities and states. This is something that’s long lasting.”
Amazon.com Inc. began charging sales tax Saturday on orders made in California, following legislation pushing the popular online retailer to do so. Along with other online companies, Amazon is now required to charge sales tax to California residents pursuant to the new law, following on the heels of recent debates regarding the even playing field of e-commerce. Before the tax law went into effect, out-of-state online retailers were not required to charge tax on purchases made in California. “Retailers are very handicapped by tax,” said Mark Yoon, owner of A&R Textbooks on Pico Boulevard. “These days, students are going to Amazon in the first place.” Similarly, the Santa Monica College bookstore has felt the sting of online buying. “We’ve lost a considerable amount of business to online retailers,” said David Dever, the store’s manager. Dever also noted that he considers the new law “fair commerce,” and thinks that now, “people might consider the regular, local bookstore.” However, the difference in price is not so large that Amazon is expected to be reeling. “Buying a book off of Amazon versus buying a book at the store is still cheaper,” said Rocio Fernandez, a fourth-year SMC student. “For the most part, people will continue [buying from Amazon].” Following suit, Joy Tucker, chairperson of the business department, said that consumers will likely continue to use online purchasing services. “A lot of people shop at Amazon because of the convenience,” Tucker said. “I don’t think students will stop.” Part of the deal struck between Amazon and state officials—which included postponing the advent of the added sales tax date by a year—was that Amazon will set up shop in California, opening two warehouses in Patterson and San Bernardino. “That’s more money coming into the state,” said Tucker, adding that the new facilities would also create jobs. California is not the first or the last state to be taxed by Amazon. Seven states including New York and Pennsylvania have already been taxed, and more states are expected to come under taxation in the next few years. However, whether or not California will draw in extra revenue is difficult to predict. According to The Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan tax research group centered in Washington, D.C., states that have already adopted the “Amazon” tax have received no extra revenue. Amazon spokesperson Scott Stanzel said that the new law should allow the company to “expand our investment and job creation in the state.” Stanzel declined to comment when asked about Amazon sales, but stated that Amazon is “thriving” in the areas where tax is collected. The company has built a reputation among customers for low prices and fast service. For students like Fernandez, these reasons are enough to continue shopping with Amazon, even with the new taxes. “I trust Amazon,” Fernandez said.
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Health + Lifestyle 9
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
Club Grow is growing rachel spurr Photos + Text
The summer heat has set in, there are tomatoes to harvest, and the pole beans are abundant at the Santa Monica College Organic Learning Garden. The garden is in full swing, and so was Club Grow last Tuesday during their first week in session this fall, as members gathered to introduce themselves and connect with one another through food, knowledge and nature. Club participants hailed from as many diverse backgrounds as the plants in the garden—some freeform, others tied back and manicured. Bradley Tucker, an SMC student taking general education classes, said that he arrives on campus early, “to sit in the garden.” “It was the smell of the basil,” Tucker said, that had always attracted him, and interested him in Club Grow membership. Shirley Smith, who noticed the garden on her way to yoga class, has worked in India and Africa to present better growing practices, and currently participates in other garden programs throughout Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. Art major Karn Ashimyan, who “couldn’t Club Grow member Ibrahim Khatib gathers onion get into two different classes,” said that he “was seeds for fall planting at the Organic Learning Garden passing by, and decided to do this instead.” at Santa Monica College on Sept. 12. Club Grow president Zhenya Kechina, a theater arts major at SMC, said that she never imagined she would be “interested in gardening and and she is interested in helping others lessen that gap. educating people about health and the food industry.” “I felt that this is how I’m going to contribute to the Kechina said that in Kazakhstan, where she grew up, world, besides acting,” Kechina said. “I want to help people tend to have a stronger connection between people, open their eyes, [and] wake them up from a food and health than she has witnessed in America, deep sleep.” As the meeting came to order, chairs were overflowing as many new members signed up, and future Club Grow activities and topics were discussed. The club’s agenda included organizing to share knowledge, pumping collected rainwater from the 22,000-gallon cistern in the garden, and having fun while learning about gardening in the coming months. Genevieve Bertone, director of sustainability at SMC, was present to help coordinate efforts. Missing from the week’s activities was Dana Morgan, tenured English professor at SMC and adviser to Club Grow, as she was representing SMC and the Organic Learning Garden in Sonoma County at the National Heirloom Exposition, which celebrates “heirloom agriculture,” and “pure food.” As the meeting adjourned, gardeners moved on to weeding and planting. Some gathered together while others concentrated alone in particular areas of interest. In the small yet bustling 3,200-squarefoot garden space, it is now time for sowing onion seeds and smelling the basil. Visiting hours at the garden are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and it is open to anyone. Club Grow meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Matt Van Diepen, Club Grow member, spreads mulch around 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the onion seeds planted for the fall season.
Organic or conventional? anilec vita Staff Writer
The rising popularity of organic food has been fueled by the perception that it is healthier, and that it has greater nutritional value and fewer toxic chemicals than conventionally grown food. Raising controversy by refuting this widespread notion, a highly publicized Stanford University study has recently stated that organic food is not actually more nutritious, but many supporters still stand by the growing organic industry. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, organic products “have been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.” The Stanford study, published by the Annals of Internal Medicine, was a systematic review of 237 studies of organic produce compared with conventionally grown food. Although the study concluded that organic food is not considerably more nutritious than regular food, the study did show that organic produce has a lower level of pesticide residue than conventional produce. The abstract states that the study was “heterogeneous,” “limited in number,” and that “publication bias may be present.” Consequently, the limitations of the study have led organic food supporters to question the results. “Personally, I do believe that there are benefits from eating food that is not treated with pesticides or herbicides,” said Westwood nutritionist Martha Pájaro. According to Pájaro, the results of the study were inconclusive. “The body of evidence is small; it only shows seventeen studies with humans, and the
longest one lasted two years,” said Pájaro. “It is irresponsible to insinuate that there are not benefits from eating organic food after reading the study. It will require years of study and observation to really understand the properties of organic products.” For Zhenia Kechina, president of Club Grow at Santa Monica College, the decision of buying organic is a matter of being healthy. “People need to pick their food very carefully; food for less does not work,” said Kechina. “If more individuals will stop to think where the food they are eating comes from—how the cows have been slaughtered or the greens have been grown—they will stop chasing cheap food.” Kechina said that people should plan their budgets carefully so that they may be able to include healthier options in their diets. For other students, like SMC business major Roman Klein, the price tag makes a difference. “The price difference is too big,” said Klein. “Why should I spend more for the same product?” Beyond the economic and health issues, organic food represents a better choice for the environment for students like SMC dance major Megan Wood. “The amount of chemicals released into the atmosphere is a factor that should be considered when individuals purchase food,” said Wood. “Everything is connected, and we keep sending this trash back to the soil and destroying the planet.” Juan Garcia, a farmer who sells his organic products each week at the Santa Monica Farmers Market, assures that the quality and the taste of organic food makes the difference. “The hormones and the chemicals will never be as good as the food that grows naturally,” said Garcia.
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+ entertainment 10 arts
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
$10 Tuesday:
Sushistop marine gaste Staff Writer On a mission to find good food on a tight budget, I came across not one, but two Sushistop restaurants on the same boulevard. Their signs posted along the sidewalk announced, “All items $2.75,” and without any hesitation, curiosity lured me inside. A server welcomed me and asked me to write my name and the number of people in my party on a piece of paper provided at the entrance. Inside the spacious, single room there is a sushi bar encircling the chefs. There is enough seating for 24 to 28 people around the bar, while more customers can wait inside the dining room or outside, where some chairs are placed along the window. It does not take long to be seated; you can even take the time to pre-order your food so it will be ready soon after you sit down. Soy sauce, napkins, and chopsticks are placed in front of you, and the servers are ready to bring what you need. Other than eating, you really have nothing to worry about. At Sushistop you know you’re being taken care of. Your table space is enough for two to three dishes, and if you order more, servers will continually clear the empty dishes. They also constantly refill your cup of water, so you don’t even have time to get thirsty. Last but not least, the place is pretty quiet. Some music is played in the background but if you don’t pay attention to it, it’s not bothersome. Santa Monica College student and server Hana Paz, 20, informed me it is always an employee’s playlist. “We understand the young generation lives on a tight budget. Low cost attracts more customers and brings more income,” explains Kazuo Kīshīguchī, a busser at
Sushistop. Thanks to the low fish market prices in Downtown Los Angeles, the chain can serve top-quality sushi to its customers. “The more you buy, the less expensive it gets,” Kīshīguchī says. The fixed price includes everything from two pieces of sushi and sashimi, to eight original rolls and four specialty rolls. For those with bigger appetites, there are mini bowls of rice with meat, udon noodles, salads, appetizers, and even desserts. For $1.60 you can buy bottled or canned drinks, miso soup and sodas. “I like the variety of food you’re getting for the price!” said Rita Lima, a fellow customer who works nearby. If you are not sure what “Aburi Sushi” is, look on the wall, and a sign will be displayed with a description of the plate. The proximity of the sushi chefs also allows you to ask questions so you do not waste your time wondering if you should take a risk trying something new. That being said, what is there to lose when you get to experience new tastes without emptying your wallet? Two Sushistops are located on Sawtelle Boulevard, north of Pico Boulevard. One is just before Olympic Boulevard near the mall where Marshalls and Starbucks are, and the other is at the cross street with Mississippi Avenue. The restaurants open at 11:30 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. everyday. Note that it is cash only, but there is an ATM on site. If you drive to the restaurant, be aware of the street parking, and bring quarters to feed the meter. You can also pay the valet or park your car in a public parking structure. If you go by bus, the Big Blue Bus line seven will take you there in twenty minutes from Santa Monica College.
Marine Gaste Corsair Lord Mesa, 39, enjoys a quick lunch at Sushistop in Santa Monica, California on a Friday afternoon. He says he’s come here more times than he can remember because he appreciates the affordable price for the quality food Sushistop serves. He also likes how it’s near other social places like Volcano Tea House.
Fires can’t touch you Poolside Arezou Zakaria Staff Writer Twenty-four hours before Poolside played at the J. Paul Getty Museum, there was a nearby fire that blazed across 70 acres of land. The roads to the Getty were shut down, and trapped visitors were shuttled out to safety. But this was a new day. It was the perfect Saturday afternoon for the Getty’s summertime concert series, “Saturdays off the 405.” The sun was blazing and people of all ages and ethnicities sat around, waiting for the show to start. The mood was mellow as people lounged on the travertine sitting area, drinking beer and taking in the view. Fans ranging from their mid twenties to late forties and fifties were excited to see Poolside perform. Jacqueline Landry, a fan since she first heard Poolside on Sound Cloud, was looking forward to the show and was happy to see a good turnout despite the recent fires. In attendance were hipsters, parents with young children, and carefree teenage couples. Erika
Bischoff, who had never heard of Poolside, enjoyed their sound, loved how the band mixed and sampled music, and particularly liked front man Filip Nikolic’s voice. Jeffery Paradise and Nikolic, Poolside’s frontmen, have exceptionally down to earth and relaxed personalities, which is reflected in their work. Their music is best described as easy to listen to daytime disco. “When you think of disco you think Studio 54 style, upbeat with an undertone of darkness,” Paradise explained. “We deal with soulful artists like Bill Withers, as well as the more upbeat part of disco.” As the night went on, the concert was in full throttle, wherever you looked people were bobbing their heads and swaying to the sweet beat of the music. There was an air of unison in the crowd as everyone danced and just had a good time. As the band played their last song, the crowd shouted, “Encore, encore, encore!” Poolside obliged them and played two more songs before they officially bowed out for the night.
Rachel Spurr Corsair Poolside duo, Philip Nikolic, on lead vocals and bass guitar, and Jeffrey Paradise, on electronics, perform live at Saturdays Off The 405 for The Getty Museum on Sept. 15.
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volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
arts + entertainment 11
Steve Lockwood and friends jam at the Edye Stage David Madrid Staff Writer With the fluorescent lights dimmed, purple and blue stage lights illuminated the scene as Steve Lockwood’s band entered the room. High keys hit the piano, a wind chime in the background. The score sounded like a 1950s police drama, very sudden and nerve wracking. Then, without warning, the drums kicked in rigorously. Steve Lockwood dazzled listeners, played the Baldwin piano with his eyes closed, his hands knowing exactly where to go. The Friday Night Jazz Series at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center is a musical ritual. Students come to listen, bands come to play. “I come to these jazz shows for class purposes,� said audience member Amanda Hughes. She said she loved every song, particularly all the different melodies, tunes and volumes. Saxophonist Kim Richmond played smoothly, articulating all the right notes. Doubling on the sax and the clarinet is no easy feat, but Richmond achieved this with competence, displaying a great level of technical skill in the jazz idiom. On the double-bass was cool guy Mike Merritt, in his quirky pattern shirt, playing the cello oh-so-smoothly. The strings on the cello made the room reverberate with such intensity that the audience felt every note he hit. According to drummer Dan Schnelle, jazz is very expressive. “It’s a genre of improvisation, one can really be oneself.� Indeed, the experience of listening to a great jazz combo only confirms the freedom of jazz improvisation. Overall the night was positive and entertaining; the music was easygoing and engaging. Lockwood’s eclectic style of jazz blends old school sounds with a modern style. The next installment of the Friday Night Jazz Series is October 12, with two shows at 7 and 9 p.m. The featured artist is Adam Schroeder. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the SMC Theater Arts Box Office.
Scott Rousch Corsair The Steve Lockwood Quartet plays Friday, Sept. 12 at the Edye Theater in Santa Monica, Calif.
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12 sports
Second half surge propels Corsairs to victory
volume 104 issue 3 • september 19, 2012 • santa monica college
Women’s soccer unable to pull away, ends in tie
rachel duron Staff Writer “This is how we do, this is what we do. Give us hot, give us cold,” said head coach Gifford Lindheim, after proudly ending a two-year losing streak against San Bernardino Valley College. The Santa Monica College Corsairs got their act together after the second half, and left San Bernardino with their heads held high Saturday night, winning 45-34. The Corsairs had a rough first half, unable to break the Wolverines offense, which ran the ball 499 yards. They also had a difficult time penetrating through the holes in the Wolverines defensive line. The line didn’t do a good job of protecting their quarterback Alfonso Medina, who was sacked five times, and took a couple hard hits. By the end of the first half, the Corsairs were looking like they had already lost the game. The high temperatures in the San Bernardino Valley had taken the energy out of the team, as they trailed SBVC 19-14. “Tonight we were on the ropes, and this team found a way to come back,” said Lindheim, adding that the team did a much better job of running the football in the second half. After halftime, the Corsairs came onto the field looking reenergized and hungry for a win. They went into the fourth quarter trailing SBVC 34-21, but after Ethan Hillyer caught a 73-yard scoring pass for the Wolverines, the Corsairs responded with three unanswered touchdowns and a field goal. The entire atmosphere changed; the fire had been put back into the team, and the energy was palpable. Myles Johnson ran the ball 17 yards into the end zone for SMC, and shortly after, kicker Jose Esquivel made a 27-yard field goal, increasing SMC’s lead to 38-34. With 1:39 left, SMC abruptly ended the Wolverines’ final comeback attempt, when defensive back Aaron Rogers recorded his second interception, returning it for a touchdown with 25 seconds remaining in the game. “As soon as I saw him drop his shoulders, [the Wolverines’ quarterback] looked right at me,” said Rogers. “I knew where he was going to throw the ball, and it was my job to step up and make a big play, and I did it.” Rogers brought the momentum the team needed. “Aaron has a high football IQ ,” said Lindheim. “That last interception to close the show was a great way to end the game. I’m very pleased. When you’re up against a wall, how do you respond? Do you fold your tent or do you fight back? We were up against the wall several times, and I thought we responded every time the challenge came.” The Corsairs, as a whole, came out in the second half confidently, and knew what they needed to do in order to beat SBVC. By blocking more effectively, and working as a team, the holes in the Wolverines’ defensive line opened up, and SMC used that to their advantage. “We didn’t limp out of here—we sprinted,” said Lindheim. The Corsairs will have to tough through practices this week to tighten their defensive and offensive strategies before they go up against conference rival West L.A. College this Saturday at 1 p.m.
David J. Hawkins Corsair Santa Monica College forward Mahshar Zargar (left) is dragged down by both defender Diana Hernandez (center) and goalkeeper Sierra Golding. While there was no call made against San Bernardino Valley College, the ball was stopped by the keeper before reaching the goal line, preventing the Corsairs from scoring. SMC and SBVC finished 0-0 after 90 minutes of play on Sept. 14.
eugene jones Staff Writer The Santa Monica College women’s soccer team came out of their match against San Bernardino Valley College with a 0-0 tie, their second of the season. “I was very happy with the team’s performance today,” head coach Aaron Benditson said. “We went against a battle tested, very highly committed group in San Bernardino. We have nothing to hold our hats on.” The game suffered from inconsistencies from both teams. SBVC was on the attack early in the game with multiple shots taken against SMC. But the Corsairs maintained strong defense and goalkeeping by Cindy Godina, who prevented San Bernardino from scoring. “I thought we held strong,” Benditson said. “I thought we did a good job on getting back and defending as a group.” The Corsairs faced a difficult opponent, adding to Benditson’s pride over the results. Benditson said that SBVC was athletic, fast on the break, and that their transition from defense to offense was flawless. As SBVC continued to be aggressive on offense, SMC was not able to counter with the same intense play. The Corsairs did not record their first shot on goal until the opening minutes of the second half. “I want to create more opportunities to score goals—as many
Raphael Mawrence Corsair Santa Monica College sophomore Rosie Potts (left) and San Bernardino Valley College freshman Braelyn Tirella (right) in action at the Corsair Field.
as possible,” Benditson said. “I think that’s going to be our biggest challenge throughout the year is finding goals.” Benditson was happy that the Corsairs generated some opportunities to score goals, even though the team did not display a strong offensive presence.
Men’s soccer all tied up kou collins Staff Writer The Santa Monica College men’s soccer team continued their undefeated streak with back-to-back away games against Oxnard College on Sept. 11 and Moorpark College on Sept. 14, both resulting in 2-2 ties. Even though they have not lost a game, there were plenty of opportunities for SMC to pull out wins, according to head coach Tim Pierce. “We don’t come out thinking that we’re in a game until we go down,” Pierce said, about the early giveaway points in both games. “For some reason, the last couple of games, we’ve come out a little flat.” In the opening minutes of the game against Moorpark, SMC allowed a goal in the fourth minute to Brandon Lara, and another in the sixth minute to Emanuel
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Munguia. In both games, the Corsairs found themselves down 2-0 early , but came back strong, scoring before the end of the first half. “I think we were the aggressor and took it to them,” Pierce said. “We played with some urgency and forced the game and forced the issue a bit. I think we were the better team the second half.” A key turn-around moment for SMC was when freshman forward Rafael Silva scored his first goal of the season at the 30 -minute mark. “It was my first goal; I was so happy,” Silva said. SMC forward Alessandro Canale scored a goal in the beginning of the second half to tie the game. The Corsairs had enough time to take the lead, but they were not able @t h e _ c o r s a i r •
to capitalize. Although pleased with the team’s overall effort and impressed that the team was able to come back from a 2-0 deficit, Pierce was not too excited about the 2-2 tie. “I was a little disappointed that we weren’t able to win the game,” Pierce said. SMC controlled much of the second half by being the aggressor. The Corsairs repeatedly could not find the back of the net, but no shot came closer than Canale’s, which bounced off the goal post in extra time. Freshman Alessandro Canale continued his stellar play, scoring all four goals in a 4-1 SMC victory over Allan Hancock College on Tuesday, Sept. 18. Freshman Eric Fakhourian left the game in the first half with an ankle injury, but is not expected to miss any time. The Corsairs continue their road swing against Palomar this Friday Sept. 21
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