The Corsair Vol. C Issue 18

Sports

Online Exclusive

NATIVE

JUNE

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SMC student Martial Chaput and his band hit South by Southwest.

Read the story and watch the video online.

SMC Tennis is Smashing Page 12

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orsair C

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

www.thecorsaironline.com

No Cuts

By Nathan Gawronsky Staff Writer Thousands of students from all over the state of California gathered in Sacramento on March 14th, 2011 to march through the pouring rain towards the Capitol building.

Signs with bleeding ink read “CUTS HURT, ” “Save Our Schools, ” “TAX THE TOP, NOT THE BOTTOM, ” and another that read “Do Not Go To School, Go Directly To Welfare, Do Not Get A Future, Do Not Get Education Funding, ” designed to parody a Monopoly game card. The energized crowds worked themselves into an organized frenzy, with some people beating on drums and others bleating out frantic cries with plastic vuvuzelas.

“Education is going in the toilet, ” said Savannah Bethany Dowell, a 20-year-old college student of Modesto Junior College.

Her major was culinary arts, but due to recent budget cuts, those courses are no longer available to her.

“These cuts are affecting my ability to be employed, and employable, in the near future; they ’re affecting my ability to get into a career I ’m able to advance in. ” Dowell ’s story is only one example of just some of the human costs of the Californian educational system ’s budget cuts. She

[See Cuts, page 3]

George Mikhail Corsair Protesters gather in Sacramento to voice their concerns over the increase in educational fees threatening Cal State Universities and community colleges.

Inside . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Lifestyle .............5

Photostory . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

A&E . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Opinion Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Japanese students at SMC react

Krista Bonelli Corsair A customer donates five dollars to the tsunami victims in Japan at Nijiya Market in West Los Angeles.

By Jonathan Bue Editor-in-Chief Japanese international students and faculty members at Santa Monica College are still reeling in the wake of what is now being called the worst crisis to hit Japan since World War II. SMC, which serves a greater Japanese population within the Santa Monica and West LA communities, has 352 Japanese international students currently enrolled on its ’ campus.

“It ’s kind of a weird feeling, ” said Yusei Shimada, 21, a sophomore at SMC. “I watched video of the

[See Tsunami, page 2]

Money worries for KCRW No kicks for 66

News

. . . . . . . . . .10-11

Volume C, Issue 18

Jeff Cote Corsair Jason Bentley, hosts Morning Becomes Eclectic for KCRW at SMC’s main campus. KCRW is in high risk of a one million dollar budget cut.

By Nathan Gawronsky Staff Writer

By Muna Cosic Staff Writer

KCRW, the community radio station of Santa Monica College, has for many years stood as a model of original and innovative public broadcasting. With a blend of eclectic, commercial free music, National Public Radio and an assortment of talk radio programs, KCRW has become known for drawing in listeners keen on tuning into programming that stands apart from the vast

Student protestors from schools all over California fought through the rain to come to Sacramento and make a united stand against those who want to impose budget cuts on their education.

Santa Monica College was one of the schools attending the protest with 150 students, InterClub Council and Associated Students members included.

The increased tax extension must go on the ballot for voting and pass or California community college students will

[See KCRW, page 4]

have to pay $66 per unit. If the tax extension does pass, there will still be a fee hike to $36 per unit because of the $12.5 billion budget cuts.

Mike Tuitasi, SMC Vice President of Student Affairs, was one of the college ’s staff who came to support the students at the protest. “Either way is a disaster for SMC, but passing the tax extensions is a better case scenario, ” said Tuitasi.

The SMC Board of Trustees has created guiding principles because of the budget cuts, which Tuitasi conrmed is SMC ’s budget plan.

[See Budget, page 3]

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

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March 16, 2011

NEWS

Stein releases new book

By Moa Axelsson Staff Writer

Skylight Bookstore in Los Feliz.

The poems are put together in chronological order, organized like a Poetry writer, editor, SMC English play. They are from a variety of poets and professor and labor activist Julia Stein depict different aspects of the event. From held the rst reading of her new poetry the re until years after, the poems tell anthology “Walking Through a River of vivid stories about labor abuse.

Fire: 100 Years of Triangle Factory Fire “I grew up hearing about the res, ” said Poems ” at Beyond Baroque in Venice this poet Alice Rogoff. “I identied with the past Sunday. girls, it could have been me. ” Rogoff is one This year is the 100-year anniversary of the contributors to the readings and of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory re she nishes by emphasizing on today ’s that killed 146 employees at the Triangle sweatshop industry.

Shirtwaist Factory in New York. The Andy Griggs, who is a retired elementary victims were school teacher m o s t l y and helps immigrant organize L.A. women and Laborfest, points children who out how much were not able to of an issue labor make it out from abuse still is. the locked doors “A hundred of the factory years of labor when the re history, but it ’s broke loose. still happening S t e i n ’ s all over the r e a d i n g s place. Look at Krista Bonelli Corsair Wisconsin! ” are a part of Santa Monica College English Professor/poet Julia Los Angeles Stein herself Stein celebrates the publication her new book which Laborfest and contributes two highlights the Triangle Shirtwaitst Factory fire.

Remember of the 15 poems the Triangle Coalition, an organization in the anthology and Rogoff contributes that will arrange 50 events this year to one. A total of nine poets ’ works have remember the re. been put together for this anthology.

Stein ’s grandmother was a sweatshop Stein has been writing poetry for 40 employee in 1911, when the res took years, has published two previous poetry place. She explains how her grandmother books and has also defeated a lawsuit had been a teenage garment worker at brought on by Guess Jeans for her antia sweatshop in Pittsburgh. “There were sweatshop activism. four children and she supported the The owners of the Triangle factory were whole family, ” said Stein. never convicted but the re started a As an anti-sweatshop activist, she is a new level of labor activism in the United part of L.A. Laborfest which will hold an States, and the ght for labor rights is as additional reading of the anthology on intense today as it was one hundred years Friday, March 18, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at the ago.

theCorsaironline.com

Students respond [Tsunami, from page 1] tsunami but that ’s like watching an action movie that ’s totally unreal, even though it ’s a real situation. ” Shimada went on to express that until he returns to Japan, he probably won ’t realize the extent of the disasters currently plaguing his home country.

“Now, like I can ’t believe that and I don ’t accept that it is a real situation, ” said Shimada.

Many of the students interviewed did not undergo much personal loss or tragedy, but the anxiety suffered from the whole event has been enough to deter students from going about their normal lives.

In fact, watching and reading the news has been the only thing many Japanese students feel they can do.

“I want to help, but I can ’t. What should I do? I don ’t know what should I do, ” said Monyka Kawase, 20, a psychology major.

“I was writing an essay yesterday but I, you know, I want to check the news I want to see the video clips about it, ” said Takehiro Koyasu, 21. “It ’s kind of hard to focus on the school stuff. ” Hiromi Yoshikawa, 21, added that she couldn ’t “think about anything, just watching, ” as a cafeteria television screen ashed image after image of the devastation.

There are students like Eriko Fujita, 21, whose friend in Sendai, the coastal capital of Miyagi prefecture plowed in half by the tsunami, has been limited to one meal a day since the disasters occurred.

Kayoko Nagaoka, 22, has yet to hear from her friend from neighboring Fukushima prefecture, where the current nuclear crisis is taking affect. And looking for a sign, Mayuki Moto, 23, anxiously awaits her friend to make an appearance on twitter.

Japanese language Professor Yasuhiko

Miura, whose family lives in Miyagi but is lucky enough to have avoided the tsunami, has only been able to contact his family by text message.

“Fortunately they are not in the evacuation area so they still are living at my friends house and they have water and also gas, ” said Miura. Although they currently have food stocks, Miura worries about the situation a week from now with the currently crippled commerce and transportation infrastructure.

Department colleague Makoto Nishikawa was able to hear news of his brother ’s safety the day after the disasters struck, and although fortunate to not experience a direct loss, he and his wife have heard news of friends ’ relatives who haven ’t been so lucky.

Though a majority of the news coming from Japan has been that of tragedy, Nishikawa points out the will of the Japanese people in light of such adversity.

“I really cannot help but notice the resilience and steadfast character of the Japanese people under such devastating circumstances, ” said Nishikawa, ”there ’s no riots … and most of them have remained calm and very cooperative and helping each other; I ’m really amazed. ” The despondent emotions felt by Nishikawa and others on campus have turned into immediate action with student groups such as JELA (Japanese English Language Association), Pray for Japan, and Neighborhood Fund meeting together to coordinate fundraising and donation efforts.

Commissioner of Publicity Hiroki Kamada ’s group, Neighborhood Fund, plans to fundraise at the 3rd street promenade Saturday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Efforts to raise funds on campus are pending AS approval although a tentative date is planned for next Tuesday.

March 16, 2011

theCorsaironline.com

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

NEWS

3

SMC goes to Sacramento: Budget Cuts [Cuts, from page 1]

[Budget, from page 1]

explained how her options were quickly running out, about how being unemployed and living off food stamps was taking a toll on her outlook on life.

When asked where she would have to go from here if things continued down the same path, she said, “probably the military. It ’s the last haven for anybody with half a brain who wants to get some kind of an education. And even that ’s iffy. ” Montrell Williams, a 20-yearold unemployed student at Santa Monica College studying construction management, explained how with very limited financial aid amounting to 1,000 dollars per semester, if not for his grandmother putting him up in her home, he ’d be in a very precarious situation. “I eat less, I budget more, and I am literally forced to have more of a solid focus on getting out of school faster, ” he said. “It ’s sad, that I ’m hungry a lot, but you don ’t complain about it; you just do your homework. ” Tobil Holmes, an unemployed and homeless 29-year-old film student of City College of San Francisco, lives without support from any family members or financial aid. “While going to school I was essentially in the shelter at 8th street, just struggling really hard to try and make it work, ” said Holmes.

But facing the reality of raised fees and living in poverty, the prospect of continuing his education is looking harder with every passing day. “It ’s very stressful being broke, ” said Holmes, “I have to worry about getting something to eat every day. ” Outside of the Capitol building, the massive crowd shouted “Let the people go, ” a biblical allusion to the struggle to break free from Pharaonic powers.

“Everyone deserves an education, ” said Holmes. “What they ’re trying to do is dumb down the youth. ”

One of the principles of their plan is to keep course offerings at SMC “that are responsive to student needs and consistent with the State priorities of transfer, career technical, and basic skills education. ” SMC will not reduce or cut programs without carefully reviewing them, but there will be courses and programs cut because of the budget cuts. SMC will also pursue spreading cost reductions fairly.

SMC will attempt to lower costs over time with “energy saving retrots, alternative energy sources, reduction or consolidation of facility usage, etc. ” Another way for SMC to reach its budget target is to cut staff and existing jobs where possible. SMC will avoid layoffs of permanent employees, focusing on the freezing of salaries, furloughs, and decreases in salaries.

David Stavis, the 20 year-old ICC ViceChair, was one of the dedicated leaders during the protest and his voice red up protestors to chant and decry the budget cuts.

Stavis was angry with the budget cuts targeting higher education. He agreed that the tax extension must pass, otherwise SMC faces the hardest times imaginable.

“Even the best scenario is a nightmare, ” said Stavis during the bus ride to Sacramento.

Chantelle Eastman, Associated Students Vice President, was one of the leaders and voices along with Stavis during the protest and she spoke out against the budget cuts and the effect it has on SMC. She also agreed that the tax extension must pass in order to escape the $66 per unit fee.

Benny Blaydes, Lead Counselor and ICC Advisor, was also on one of the three buses lled with SMC students going to Sacramento to protest and voice their thoughts on the budget cuts targeting higher education.

Rosilynn Tilley, SMC Counselor, was on the same bus as Tuitasi and Stavis. Her dedication to support student protestors was self-evident and appreciated by all student protestors who were riding the same bus as Tilley.

It is still unclear as to what will happen with the tax extensions and budget cuts, since the Democrats and Republicans haven ’t come to terms yet. However, it is clear that whatever they decide on, California ’s higher education will pay the price.

Governor Brown wants to make a decision on the tax extension by the end of this week and SMC students can only watch and hope that the decision will place the tax extension on the ballot for the June election or else the $66 per unit nightmare will be a reality.

Jennifer Martinez Corsair The rain stops as protesters begin to walk away from the state capitol building in Sacramento on March 14th.

Students in Sacramento

Thousands of students and faculty turn out in the rain in Sacramento to protest the recently proposed education budget.

By Moa Axelsson Staff Writer Thousands of students and faculty from California ’s community colleges gathered in Sacramento on March 14, to protest against proposed budget cuts that will not only increase student fees but also cut classes and eliminate several student services.

“Education is a fundamental right.

That is why I am here and that is why you are here. ”

“We cannot rely on private and out of state colleges to secure our education for tomorrow. ” These were the words and common theme of Monday ’s speakers outside the state capitol.

Three buses loaded with 150 SMC students were the rst to arrive Monday morning at the empty parking spaces where all participants were to meet before the march, When it became ofcial that SMC would send representatives to Sacramento, SMC Associated Students

George Mikhail Corsair

encouraged anyone with interest and engagement to sign up for the bus ride until the maximum of 150 students was reached.

The march was initiated by the Student Senate for Community Colleges in California. According to FCC Vice Chair David Stavis, 20, engaging students who care about the higher education budget cut debate was not difcult since it is a change that will affect each and every student at Santa Monica College.

[See Sacramento, page 7]

Jennifer Martinez Corsair Santa Monica College student, Diana Hernandez, 23, tries to keep dry during the protest in Sacramento.

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

March 16, 2011

NEWS

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theCorsaironline.com

Government threatens public broadcasting funds [KCRW, from page 1] majority of cookie-cutter commercial stations.

Lately KCRW has found itself in a fiscally perilous position due to the proposed federal budget cuts emanating from the Republican-based House of Representatives.

Included in the GOP ’s sweeping federal budget plan is a legislative bill titled H.R. 68. Introduced by Republican representative Doug Lamborn from Colorado, the bill is designed to amend the Communications Act of 1934, effectively prohibiting the federal government from funding the Corporation for Public Broadcasting after the fiscal year 2013.

This could mean big problems in the future for KCRW if H.R. 68 passes through Congress.

According to an email sent from KCRW General Manager Jennifer Ferro, “Federal funding is one of three

main funding sources for KCRW and by the recent debacle at NPR which all other public radio stations. The resulted in the resignation of NPR ’s sources are: membership, underwriting president Vivian Schiller. Schiller (corporate and other business stepped down last Wednesday, March sponsors) and the Corporation for 9, after a series of damaging comments Public Broadcasting. CPB funding made by NPR ’s senior vice president of amounts to 9% of our operating budget fundraising Ron Schiller (no relation).

-- $1.2 million In a secretly a year. ” t a p e d If KCRW meeting in The real hit will be absorbed by loses federal which Ron f u n d i n g , local stations like KCRW Schiller was they will in duped into essence be believing -Jennifer Ferro, KCRW General Manager he forced to find was alternative meeting with methods to potential make up that $1.2 million gap in their donors from an American Muslim budget. This is a precarious situation, group, he made disparaging comments because if KCRW is unable to secure about American conservatives and those funds, it would, according to said “It is very clear that we would Ferro, “result in a paring back of our be better off in the long run without operations, ” federal funding. ” All of this is further exacerbated For KCRW, this means that the

threat to the station ’s economic survival is now on two fronts. “One of them is political, no doubt, and is making NPR a target, ” said Ferro. “The other force is deficit reduction. Even though CPB funding makes up .0001% of the federal budget, many programs will have to justify why they should keep their funding. ” And in such dire economic times when federal deficit reduction is the item of the day, justifying KCRW ’s continued financial support from the CPB could be a daunting task.

“The truth about the NPR issue is that zeroing out the funding for CPB will only hurt public broadcasting stations, not NPR. NPR charges us for programming and will continue to do so regardless of our budget issues, ” said Ferro. “The real hit will be absorbed by local stations like KCRW who employ local people and have an important relationship with local communities. ”

come to the paper shred instead of doing it at home is because it is more convenient.

While many residents do have paper shredders, it ’s of little help when you want to shred a mass amount of documents.

The center has the ability to mass shred documents in a matter of minutes.

“This event gives residents a sense a security. A lot of people do not own shredders and they want to make sure important information isn ’t used against them, ” said Braun. She also says it gives them the feeling that they ’re doing something good for the environment.

As far as the electronic recyclables go, the recycling center works with the Alianza Electronic Recycling and Recovery.

According to Braun, Alianza takes the materials inside the electronics such as CRT tubes, copper wiring, metal chips, and electrodes. For instance, they could take four different wires out of an electronic device, including the chips and reuse these parts. They then sort them out and send them off to different markets for remanufacture; that way nothing is trashed or ends up in a landll.

Alianza does make money off of the electronic recyclables, with some of it going back to the city. According to Braun, for the previous scal year the city received $13,750 in total revenue from the electronics. So far for the 2011 scal year, the city has received

said Jones.

The Resource Recovery and Recycling Division is also looking for volunteers to help with a separate project that they simply do not have enough manpower for.

It involves Assembly Bill 32, passed by the state, and it requires any business in the state of California that generates more than four cubic yards of trash a week to put a recycling program in place by July 2012.

“We ’re taking one-on-one surveys with owners or managers of local businesses to determine if they currently have a recycling program in place, ” said Braun. She adds, “If they don ’t know what types of materials are generated, we can come back with some data to see what types of programs we can establish for their businesses. ” The project requires an eight question questionnaire to be administered to over 1,500 local businesses. This is where the help would be needed. Braun says that they could use volunteers to come in once or twice a week to help with the questionnaires.

The next free document shredding and electronics recycling is tentatively scheduled for July of this year. The recycling center holds monthly diversion programs such as a compost giveaway coming in April.

Visit www.smgov.net/r3 for more information.

“

”

Santa Monica residents recycle

By Oscar Castillo and Latasha Edwards Staff Writers Santa Monica residents lined up in their cars full of sensitive documents and recyclable electronics at the City Yards on 2500 Michigan Ave. for the monthly recycling diversion program offered by the city this past Saturday.

The document shredding and electronics recycling, held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., was free to all Santa Monica residents and attracted large crowd.

“You should have seen the line of cars before we opened. It was all the way out to Clovereld Boulevard, ” said Santa Monica Resource Recovery and Recycling Operations Manager Kim Braun.

According to Braun, the major environmental benets that come from this program include less trash in landlls, reduced carbon emissions, reduced greenhouse gases, and a multitude of products coming back as paper.

This is the second time this specic program has been offered, with the rst being in November of 2010. “We had such an overwhelming call for this to continue on that we decided to try again. We ’ve at least quadrupled our attendance this time around for the paper shred and electronics recycling, ” said Braun.

Braun says the reason why residents

$12,200 from the electronics in what is an increase in the popularity of the electronicsrecycling program.

Residents can conceivably sell the recyclable electronics themselves and receive the money, but it is more benecial to the city to recycle it through the recycling center. The city uses the money they get to help pay back for some of the diversion programs.

“Believe me, the money we receive on these materials is not nearly what it costs to be able to run programs such as this, ” said Braun.

The whole idea of going green is not only geared towards major businesses but also colleges such as Santa Monica College.

SMC ’s sustainable works program opens doors for students who want environmental careers.

One of the Santa Monica city employees at the event, Myesha Jones, is also taking a class at the Bundy campus. Jones shared that these classes are funded by the California Resource Recovery Association (CRRA). The CRRA was given a grant from the federal government to do required job training in sustainability.

According to Jones, this started with the city about three years ago. “My classes are very benecial. I am covering a lot of material, for someone who has very little experience in recycling I am learning a lot, ”

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

March 16, 2011

LIFESTYLE

theCorsaironline.com

ia d. .

S e H

“I ’m moving to South America in June to join the Peace Corps. I don ’t know what my girlfriend of two months and I are going to do. Do you think long distance can work? ”

By John Stapleton Web Editor Not a chance. And here ’s what you and your girl are going to do: break up.

I would really, truly love to give you something more uplifting than “you ’re screwed, ” but you will both appreciate the honesty and clarity of curtailing it now, instead of taking the next couple years to drift painfully apart as you inict agonizing misery on each other in a childish attempt to preserve your long-distance (read: imaginary) relationship. I ’d love to wax poetic about how, if your love is real and strong and true, then “distance makes the heart grow fonder ” and that “love knows no bounds. ” But in reality, your longdistance (read: imaginary) relationship has far less tender proverbs of its own: “Out of sight, out of mind, ” “time heals all wounds, ” and “a bird in the hand is worth two in the opposite freaking hemisphere and is signicantly warmer to the touch. ” No Hallmark-card, candy-ass sentiment will save you from your solitude – that the heat of another human body will always trump the warmth of fond memories.

You ’re an adult: There ’s no such thing as

You ’re fat. Your parents are fat. Even your cats and dogs are fat. Well, maybe not you and your loved ones, but if we look at obesity in this country in a statistical manner, there is a big chance that you are.

It has been proven by simply observing people dining at your favorite mall ’s food court, waiting in line at an amusement park, or at the last Laker game you scored tickets to. This country is in the middle of an obesity epidemic, and this is not revelatory news. However, exactly how we got to this point and whether or not we can ever go back is.

There are many theories roaming the research world, a big one being that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is the main contributor to what led us down the path of destructive health.

According to “Understanding Nutrition, ” the textbook used to educate Santa Monica College in the eld of nutrition, HFCS is “a syrup made from cornstarch that has been treated with an enzyme that converts some of the glucose to the sweeter fructose made especially for use in processed foods ” hence the name, “high fructose corn syrup. ” Companies that use HFCS as a top ingredient for their products (such as sodas, ice cream, baked goods, fruit juices, candy and cereals) have been ghting to keep the reputation of HFCS clean since research found a correlation between the spike in obesity and the increased use of the ingredient in common foods.

Despite these enduring allegations, the research that has been done on HFCS thus far does not provide enough evidence to support these claims, keeping the relationship between HFCS and obesity a simple correlation.

Advertising campaigns, founded by the Corn Reners Association, have kicked off defending the product by

She S

aid. .

Santa, there ’s no such thing as unicorns, By Alessandra Catanese and there ’s no such thing as long- Multimedia Editor distance (read: imaginary) relationships that work.

Suffering through a long distance What are you, ve? relationship is never worth it. How well Now that we ’re not playing established can your relationship be if make-believe, it ’s only two months old? Probably let ’s get very not well enough to last through real here, cabrón: I don ’t a 27 month-long separation. know what excuse you told How well do you know Each week we will be accepting questions Stacey-Stuck-Stateside to this person?

Have for our relationship, and justify leaving her in your you two established a love advice column. Please self-righteous dust while strong enough level of send your questions to you went gallivanting trust to not be worried corsair.website@gmail. around the planet for about someone being com consecutive years at a time unfaithful? These are the – voluntarily! – but you ’re kind of questions you should not volunteering to dig irrigation be asking yourself before you ditches for poor families in Jordan, make this decision. you ’re spreading your humanity in South You are very courageous for joining; America, the Fertile Crescent of caliente, don ’t make it harder on yourself by and your “charity work ” consists bringing along your excess of private English lessons for baggage. Communication will ambitious, young Latinas who will be be hard because your resources and muy agradecida to have you help develop time will be limited. At some point the suavidad of their lengüetas. during this time both of you are going The question isn ’t whether or not you to crack, it is just a matter of when. can make your relationship work; the In my honest opinion, long distance question is why would you want it to? relationships never work. It usually

has something to do with the lack of physical contact from the other person, but it could be for a number of reasons.

Talking on the phone can only do so much, and even if you can video chat, the paranoia of not knowing whether your partner is being faithful or not is enough to drive anyone crazy.

You are going to meet some awesome people and go on some incredible adventures. Whoever is waiting for you at home will only feel left out and alone while you are gone. The best thing the both of you can do is put your relationship on hold. Enjoy yourself while you are gone, and agree on a time or place to meet when you get back. That will be the perfect time to reevaluate where you both are in your lives and decide what you want to do from there.

Other than that, the Peace Corps website offers a lot of information from past and current volunteers about how they communicated with their family and friends, as well as how the experience changed their lives. The best advice you can get for this question will probably be from them.

claiming that “the human body cannot tell the difference between high fructose corn syrup and sugar,vv ” causing much confusion and questioning amongst the public. Their website, http://www. sweetsurprise.com, states that glucose and fructose levels in HFCS are identical at 50 percent each, rebutting the claims of most advocates against HFCS. “Understanding Nutrition ” declares that there is nothing wrong with consuming sugars, even HFCS. The problems that arise in regards to this staple sweetener occur when consumption levels grow to magnicent levels, as they have in the last two decades. Consuming empty calories, or calories with no nutrient value, contributes to an endless list of health complications.

The highly acclaimed documentaries “Food, Inc. ” and “King Corn ” unveiled the manufacturing techniques and issues surrounding the industry of corn.

HFCS is used very commonly due to its cheap and massive production rates, with 30 percent of all the land in the United States used to plant and grow inedible corn that must be processed to be consumed.

“I believe the advertisements promoting the safety of HFCS are trustworthy in that, at this time, there is not a lot of evidence that an intake of HFCS is harmful to health, other than an excess intake contributing to weight gain, ” says Professor Deborah Novak, MS, RD, a nutrition expert and professor at Santa Monica College. “There is no reason to be afraid of HFCS, but rather for overall health, better to choose foods that are more nutrient dense, which typically do not contain HFCS. ” Though there seems to be two schools of thought surrounding this topic, as with most major dilemmas, the fact that we are in a state of unhealth is evident.

Above all dietary stigmas and fads, one belief seems to overcome all barriers in the world of nutrition: eat your fresh fruits and veggies to be healthy.

inside and outside of the store by singing, dancing, instrument playing, and otherwise boisterous celebrators.

Heads bobbed and hands clapped in agreement when Vaud and the Villians stepped onto the stage. The 19-piece orchestra and cabaret captivated the crowd with a musical performance like no other.

Andy Comeau, otherwise known as Vaud Overstreet, and his wife Dawn Lewis (Peaches Mahoney), headed the cast of Vaud and the Villains and dove deeply into their roles while on stage. “It ’s kind of like an old school variety show, ” said Lewis, “we keep it interesting as much as we can. ” Vaud and The Villains brought cohesion to the charity event which raised money for both Tipitina ’s Foundation and the New Orleans Musicians ’ Clinic.

“It started as old americana songs with a New Orleans feel to them, ” said Comeau, “and now we ’ve added so many other inuences to what we do. ” No single individual commanded the show; instead, each member took his or her turn basking in the spotlight.

Backstage at Amoeba, Vaud and the Villains enjoyed fat Tuesday just like everyone else. “It ’s great, ” said Lewis, “everyone is so excited! ” “Everyone is in great spirits, ” added Comeau, “It ’s real festive and just great. ”

Fever for the flavor of the high-fructose

By Cathy Arias Staff Writer

5

Michael Miller Corsair Ameoba music played host to many excited Mardi Gras celebrators this past Tuesday. A parade was conducted outside the store as people wore costumes and carried miniature floats.

Ameoba celebrates Mardi Gras

By Michael Miller Staff Writer

New Orleans is exactly 1,908 miles from Los Angeles, but one could hardly tell if they were at Ameoba Music in Hollywood celebrating Mardi Gras.

In a tradition lasting nine years, the Los Angeles Amoeba Music store celebrated the New Orleans tradition of fat Tuesday with a pot-luck, prize wheel, music, and parade.

2011 is the rst year Amoeba Records has hosted a live band for Mardi Gras. “We ’ve never done a band before and it has given it a nice avor, ” said Amoeba part owner Karen Pearson.

A DJ kicked off the festivities around 3 o ’clock with upbeat New Orleans themed music, which led guests straight to a modest parade an hour and a half later. It started within the store eventually spilling out onto Sunset Boulevard. The procession lacked street packing numbers, but participants were energetic and strident nonetheless.

Honking drivers were rewarded with colorful plastic beads.

Handmade oats accompanied the parade goers. “The oats are in honor of and in tribute to someone who has passed away that year, ” said Pearson.

Three or so hand-pushed miniature oats were escorted several times around the

March 16, 2011

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

PHOTOSTORY

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Taking it to the Capitol [Sacramento, from page 3] Students who previously were not informed about Gov. Brown ’s proposition found it frustrating and upsetting when they realized what impact it would have if they would have to pay a $66 unit fee, according to Stavis.

“It is about activism and advocacy. ” SMC student Jessica Chuan, 18, explains as her main reasons for going on the trip.

“We need to do these kinds of things, use the democracy, to be able to have a strong society. ” After thousands of participating students and faculty, from various

California community, city, and state colleges, had arrived; the crowd began the march towards the Capitol.

The rain poured down and smudged many of the messages that were written on signs, but the energy of the growing number of students was high with secure prepping and encouragement from the student leaders.

Upon arrival at the State Capitol, the protesters were greeted by CSSA President Chaves.

The speakers made an effort to inspire and promote the right to education and democracy, specically directed to the legislators ’ choice on whether or not to

allow for the tax cut to be on the ballot for special elections in June.

“I want a chance to vote. Let me vote! ” Said Nicole Andersson, one of the CSU Board of Directiors, in her speech. “Let us vote! ” When the loud but peaceful rally was over the students who had protested together towards a common goal separated and went back to their buses to go home..

Jessica Chevez, 18, felt that it had been a good experience, not just to engage in a cause that affects her but “it is important also for future students that we do things like this. ”

A protestor, whom didnt want to disclose his name, shouts vigorously voicing his opinions and rallying up the crowd.

Thousands of protestors representing many different colleges showed up to the California state Capitol on Monday, to voice their opposition on the proposed budget cuts on education.

George Mikhail Corsair

Sal Guerra Corsair

Sal Guerra Corsair

Carolyn Radcliff demonstrates her opinions against the budget cuts by writing on the Capitol’s wet steps with chalk.

“

Education is a fundamental right. That is why I am here, and that is why you are here

Sal Guerra Corsair

As protesters approached the Capitol building, a sense excitement spread throughout the crowd with chants like, “what do we want - education - when do we want it - NOW.”

”

Protesters gather at the California state Capitol building as they combat the rain and chilling weather.

George Mikhail Corsair

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SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

March 16, 2011

A&E

8

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Fishtank Ensemble graces SMC Broad Stage

Krista Bonelli Corsair The Fishtank Ensemble played The Broad Stage at Santa Monica College’s Performing Arts Center, with a special guest belly dancer, to students and music lovers abroad on Saturday March 12, 2011.

By Naomi Gambucci Staff Writer As she prepared to sing the opening song with her band already in play, Ursula Knudsen of the Fishtank Ensemble carefully adjusted the mic, and then froze as it fell into her hand.

“Look at him, not at me, ” Knudsen said, pointing to her bassist.

The group performed for the rst time at the Santa Monica Performing Arts Center on Saturday March 12, 2011.

Fishtank Ensemble consists of vocalist Ursula Knudsen, French ddler Fabrice Martinez, double bassist Djordje Stijepovic, and master of 21st century amenco guitar Douglas “Douje ”

Smolens, along with Dan Cantrell on the accordion.

The band has gone through a change in members since rst starting, including current members of Estradasper Kevin Kmertz, Adam Stacy, and Tim Smolens.

Formed in Oakland, California in 2005, Fishtank Ensemble ’s style comes from traditional Eastern European music, gypsy jazz, amenco, Japanese folk music, and Klezmer inuences.

The group has released 3 albums, and their most recent, “Woman in Sin, ” was released in 2010. They have performed across the USA and Europe, from the streets to top LA clubs.

The gypsy inuence was clearly present as the band played, adding in unique

melodies consisting of tongue clacking, hand clapping, and shouting.

In addition to vocals, Knudsen also played the violin and musical saw, which she mastered on her own.

“I sing songs in French and Japanese, sometimes in English, very rarely, ” Knudsen said.

The band played songs from a wide range of countries including traditional Spanish, French, and Turkish songs.

A woman and a hula-hoop added visuals to the fast melodies of the group with a dance performance. The dance was meant to be comical, physically and bettingly reecting the lyrics of the song titled “Cuckoo. ” Opening for the group was LA-based

chanteuse, songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Jessica Fichot. Fichot ’s style, similar to that of Fishtank Ensemble, comes from gypsy jazz, Chinese, Latin, and American folk music inuences.

“What I have for you tonight is a very international set, ” said Fichot as she prepared to sing a song, “Velvet Silk ”, in French, Mandarin, and Chinese.

A full change in instruments took place as the opening act came to an end, and the Fishtank Ensemble brought out their double bass, ddle, violin, accordion, and musical saw.

Fishtank Ensemble will be performing in Hollywood on June 17th with Rachel Rice.

has created countless opportunities and school graduation. opened doors for young people who may Boyle said that at the time, he nearly have been out of options otherwise. To dismissed Lisa ’s presence in his ofce many, he is like a saint. because she had previously made it clear Upon taking she did not want the stage, to be helped.

Boyle shared For the rst time anecdotes with in her life, Lisa the audience of admitted to her his experiences struggles with throughout the addiction, gangs years. He opened and prostitution, with a statement: and that she had “You ’re exactly wanted to quit what God had from the very in mind when start, but could God made you, ” not nd the will reecting his to do so. Boyle sentiments. helped Lisa Immediately, gain strength Boyle drew the and gave her an audience in with opportunity to Reynal Guillen Corsair get back on her the stories he shared, one of Father Gregory Boyle, founder of Homeboy feet.

Industries and author of Tattoos On the Heart. which was about Another short a prostitute and drug addict he referred anecdote he told was about a former to only as Lisa. gangbanger who came to Boyle for help.

Lisa had been resistant to any help, but Father Boyle made arrangements for the one day decided she could no longer live enthusiastic teen to be an apprentice at the way she had been living since her high a computer establishment asking the

woman who worked there to teach the boy everything she knew about computers. In addition, Boyle would pay the boy a salary each week for going to his lessons.

The boy was learning quickly and even sent a fax to Boyle during one of his lessons saying how he was learning to use a fax machine and how thankful he was to Boyle.

One morning, Boyle received a call from the boy ’s mother that a rival gang had shot him and that he was in the ICU. He passed away a week later. Stricken with grief, Boyle said he was glad that the boy had realized that he had become exactly what God had wanted him to be when God made him.

“There are a lot of things worse than death and not knowing that happens to be one of them, ” said Boyle.

Boyle ’s goal for everyone is kinship “obliterating the idea that we are separate ” from each other.

From the massive successes of his Homeboy Industries, Homegirl Bakery — with over four hundred employees, and “where enemies bake bread together ” — and his motivational and uplifting lectures, Father Gregory Boyle has been a source of hope to many.

Father Gregory Boyle, an inspiration to all

By Breanna Balisteri Staff Writer When it comes to gang bangers, most people run in the opposite direction, but not Father Gregory Boyle. Through his work over the past twenty-ve years, Boyle has embraced a subculture of misguided youths that most would not have the courage to even talk to.

On Thursday, March 10th, Boyle spoke to a full house inside the Main Stage at Santa Monica College. In fact, so many showed up that there was an overow room that broadcasted a large video projection of live coverage from the Main Stage located next door.

Dubbed the “Ghandi of the Gangs ”, Boyle was introduced by SMC professor Jaime Cruz of the history department.

“The continuity and the longevity of his works speak volumes, ” said Cruz. “He loves these young people unconditionally. ” A former gang member who had been aided by Boyle was quoted by Cruz in his introduction as saying, “If there were more priests like Father Boyle, I ’d go to church more often. ” Boyle ’s impact on the gang community

THIS WEEK AT SMC

For ticketing information on events at the Broad Stage, visit thebroadstage.com

LECTURE SERIES

DANCE

MUSIC

“Dr. Richard Delerins: Genes, Peoples, and Cuisines ”

“Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company ”

“Emeritus Concert Band: Come Hear the Band! ”

Science 140

HSS 165

The Broad stage

Airport Avenue

Tuesday March 22 11:15 a.m.

Friday & Saturday March 18 & 19 7:30 p.m.

Sunday March 20 3:00 p.m.

Saturday March 19 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENT “Santa Monica Airport Artwalk ”

March 16, 2011

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SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

A&E

9

The Return of R.E.M.

By Shanon Culiner Staff Writer

Courtesy Warner Brothers Pictures

Red Riding Hood fails to impress

By Nick Lotz Staff Writer

The story of Red Riding Hood is something we all know. Girl meets wolf, wolf eats grandma, wolf acts like grandma, woodsman kills wolf, Red Riding Hood makes a fashion statement. So what happens when one takes the classic tale and translates it into a hackneyed romance adventure lm? Nothing special.

The story begins with a young girl named Valerie, played by Amanda Seyfried, who is also known as Red Riding Hood. She is in love with a woodsman named Peter (Shiloh Fernandez), however her family has promised her hand in marriage to the local blacksmith, Henry. To complicate matters, a werewolf kills her sister, and preys on their village, which horries the whole town. After mourning for her sister, the men in the town gather up and go hunting, determined to nd and slay the savage beast.

The townspeople think they ’ve killed the beast until Father Solomon, played by Gary Oldman, shows up. He informs them that the werewolf still lives among them. The townspeople scoff at him and celebrate their victory. However, they are interrupted by the beast, a large CGI wolf that kills several villagers without breaking a sweat.

The directing by Twilight ’s Catherine Hardwicke is weak. What genre is this movie going for exactly anyways? It ’s too tame to be horror, too mundane

to be fantasy.

The only genre it really ts into is romance, fullling its reputation as a relative of the tried and true supernatural love formula found in the Twilight movies.

The two male leads are boring, and the love triangle is sorted out by a “love conquers all ” Hollywood ending, which leaves one yawning and counting the ceiling tiles.

The acting in this lm is sub par at best. Even seasoned veterans like Virginia Madsen, playing the character of Suzette, and Oldman can ’t hold together the mess left by the three competitively boring leads.

Oldman maybe turns out the best performance in the lm as a fanatical werewolf stalker driven mad by the hunt.

His performance stands out as separate from the sappy acting of Amanda Seyfried and Shiloh Fernandez, something both actors should take note of. However, this is not nearly enough to save this deeply awed and ultimately boring lm.

The thing about “Red Riding Hood ” is that it ’s not just a bad movie; it ’s an awful movie, one that inspires not hatred in its audience, but a tired indifference. By the time the werewolf was revealed, enough interest is lost in the redundant plot line as to whether anyone in the movie lived or died. Maybe next time someone wants to remake a fairy tale, they ’ll stick with “Goldilocks ” and leave the werewolf action to the experts.

The long awaited R.E.M. album, Collapse Into Now on Warner Bros. Records is anything from a collapse.

R.E.M. has nally released their 15th album on March 8, 2011.

Yes, 15 albums – and it ’s a wonderful time machine back to their success in the late 80 ’s to the early 90 ’s.

The band was formed in 1980 in Athens, Georgia and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. R.E.M. is known for mega hits like “Get Up, ” “Losing My Religion, ” “Shiny Happy People, ” “Everybody Hurts, ” and “Man on the Moon. ” The band includes guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Michael Mills, and front man Michael Stipe.

Michael Stipe ’s voice is emotionally charged and wonderfully blended into songs with other music greats like Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam) on “It Happened Today, ” Patti Smith on “Discoverer ” & “Blue, ” and Peaches on “Alligator Aviator Autopilot Antimatter ”.

Their new single, “Mine Smell Like Honey ” alone makes the album worth every penny. Stipe slowly works the verse till he charges forward into an ear-catching chorus. Mike Mills brings the best in the hook, backing Stipes ’s vocals, while Peter Buck shows off his intricate guitar playing.

Behind the mixing board, Grammy Award-winning producer Jacknife Lee shows his full producing range, blending a perfect recipe of in-your-face songs like “Discoverer ” and “Alligator Aviator Autopilot Antimatter, ” to the softer songs “Me, Marlon Brando, Marlon Brando and I ” and “Walk it Back. ” “Uberlin ” is a reminder of their previous 1987 hit, “The One I Love. ” With metaphorical lyrics like “I am ying on a star into a meteor tonight. I will make it through the day and then the day becomes the night, ” creates a chorus you not only want to bob your head to, but listen to intently.

Overall, Mills ’s smooth bass lines and backing vocals push the music towards the promise land, cutting no corners. Buck ’s mandolin and guitar playing adds a more expansive sound than any of their previous albums. Stipe ’s catchy, obscure lyrics and whaling melodies gives R.E.M. followers a familiar air.

R.E.M. uses Collapse Into Now as a spear, piercing all who doubt that they still have what it takes and have proven that they ’re not just alternative-rock icons, but still a driving force in today ’s hit music.

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

10

March 16, 2011

OPINION

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Republicans looking for the least Obama-like option

By Nathan Gawronsky Staff Writer With every passing day, the question of who the Republican Party will select for their presidential candidate for 2012 becomes all the more elusive. At the present moment, there has been no ofcial selection; all that one can claim to know at this point are merely hearsay and rumors.

Mitt Romney, the Governor of Massachusetts, by all intents and purposes seemed an extremely viable candidate, but with his close associations to President Obama ’s healthcare policies through healthcare reforms he enacted in the state of Massachusetts, the dreaded phrase “Romneycare ” has decidedly begun to uncomfortably stick to him, and republicans are beginning to doubt the efcacy of this once hoped for candidate.

Sarah Palin, who ran for vice president in 2008 alongside John McCain, has kept quiet about any plans to run in 2012. It wouldn ’t be any surprise, however, if she did end up deciding to run. The fact of the matter is a great deal of conservatives admires her and would vote for her again given the opportunity to do so.

Curious to see what students on our campus think of this issue, I took to the quad and started asking questions.

I asked a student named Amir Motamedi who he thought would run for president on the conservative ticket, and why. “Probably Mitt Romney, ” he said, “because he probably has a more economical view of things. I think we

need a president who can handle some scal issues better. ” Beyond scal issues, Motamedi expressed some concern for Romney ’s social stances. “I wouldn ’t say his social outlook is the best, ” he said, “but out of all the republican candidates, he ’s probably the most honest. ”

Moments later I met Timothy Ooley, 29 years old and a former Marine who served for two years in Iraq and six months in Afghanistan. A member of the Veterans Club on campus, he told me that for the last presidential election he voted for McCain, and usually votes for conservative candidates. “But right now, ”

he told me, “I don ’t see a lot of candidates I would want to vote for. ” Asked what kind of candidate he ’d like to see, Ooley said “I ’m looking for someone like a Reagan conservative.

The issues facing an upcoming republican candidate are clearly some of the most contentious social problems our

costly wars in our country ’s history, what to do about education, massive unemployment, and so on.

Beating an incumbent president has never been easy to accomplish either, and though President Obama ’s once nearly universal admiration amongst democrats has suffered as a result of just some of the vast problems we face, there is little doubt that he ’ll have any trouble winning the vote of the country ’s democrats once again.

If the GOP wishes to have any semblance of a ghting chance in the next presidential election, they ’re going to need to select a candidate who is not just a new face, but someone who can speak to the American public without alienating those who lean left. If we face the facts, the country is in a very conservative mindset. Last years elections conrm that, with the republicans winning a landslide victory in the congressional elections.

But the lynchpin here is the crisis the country faces over balancing the federal decit. If a deal cannot be struck and a federal shut down happens, the republicans could face a massive defeat to their public image, even more so than what has already occurred with the massive blow to Jhosef Hern Corsair against the unions in Madison, WI. country has seen in decades. Whoever The democrats will want to exploit the decides, or is selected to run for the perceived stiff-necked nature of their GOP, will have to nd a way to convince republican congressional counterparts. the American public that they possess But that could be a double-dged sword, the know-how and political nesse to in which a republican candidate can deal with the biggest federal decits possibly convince America that their in our country ’s history, how to nally democratic leaders are on a mission to turn the page on the most economically spend the nation ’s wealth into oblivion.

Understanding mental illness

By Carla Wilson Staff Writer Anguish runs deep for a soul troubled with a broken psyche. The sufferer of a disengaged mind often feels not only the torment of living in an abyss, but also the heartache of indifference from people who don ’t understand the profound distress of being mentally ill.

An Individual who experiences serious mood or mental disorders like depression, anxiety, panic, bi-polar depression or even obsessive compulsive disorder often feels isolated and estranged from family, friends and co-workers.

These diseases of the mind are debilitating and emotionally crippling conditions, and a person often endures them alone and needlessly in silence.

In the summer of 2009, a co-worker of mine killed himself. He was plagued with anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.

I often spoke with him about my own experiences with melancholy and had hoped my words would bring him comfort.

For weeks after his death I wondered why he chose to give up on his life and the loved ones he left behind. From the many conversations I had with him I came to the conclusion that he must have felt ashamed of his illness and did not want to be a burden on his family and friends.

Shame, embarrassment and guilt are common features of a person struggling with mental illness. We walk past people everyday and rarely, if ever, give thought to what may be going through a person ’s mind; or maybe we don ’t have the stomach for understanding the magnitude of disordered thought.

Mental illness, in its various manifestations, is a frighteningly lonely condition and the stigma of living with such ailments can be more than many who are aficted can bear.

“Mental illness is a little different from

biological illness in that it is probably the most private illness there is, ” said Dr. Jakub Juros, a psychiatrist working for the County of Los Angeles. “People don ’t want to share the fact that they have it. ” Add to the isolation and a sense of being marked or stigmatized and sufferers are more likely to withdraw from everyday life activities, creating an even more profound sense of loneliness.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in a given year approximately 26 percent of the adult population in the United States is diagnosable with some type of mental disorder; that ’s about 78 million people who are living with serious to severe mental illness.

Chances are someone you know may be struggling to cope with mental illness.

What ’s important to realize is that mental illness is not something you catch, like the cold or u; nor does it mean the person is decient in some way.

“On campus we often hear from students that they have been thinking about coming to Psych Services but didn ’t come sooner because they didn ’t want to be seen as crazy, ” said Dr. Sandra Rowe, Coordinator of Psychological Services at SMC. Awareness about diseases of the mind as well as empathy must be employed if we want to eliminate the misconception that people living with a mental disorder means they are somehow “different ” or “weird ”.

Dr. Rowe believes this can be accomplished through teaching. “We spend a lot of our time educating students and dispelling some of the myths, ” she said.

“Mental illness often makes people feel hopeless, so most importantly we try to instill hope. ” What ’s needed right now is for attitudes towards people, who with profound courage are battling an invisible enemy, to change and to reach out to those you may feel need the most help, without judgment and fear.

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

March 16, 2011

OPINION

theCorsaironline.com

11

Facebook channels Cyrano de Bergerac

By William Courtney Staff Writer Facebook is the norm in social networking these days. What starts as slight procrastination to avoid the dreadful task of homework, can veer towards addiction where hours are spent scouring the innite depths of Facebook, and can ultimately affect how we see ourselves.

Who can blame us though? After logging on, we are hit with enormous amounts of information like friend requests, wall posts, messages, and even pokes. Facebook is used to talk with long distance friends, joke about what happened that day in class, or friend request the crap out of people you barely know.

What we might not realize is that

Facebook is an extension of ourselves.

In other words, people make proles that include or omit information to their liking. A recent study in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, discussed this and also identied that going on Facebook can actually improve your self-esteem through selective self-representation.

Jordan Gunnett, a student here at SMC, believes selective self-representation isn ’t a problem, but said, “People use Facebook to build their lives how they want them to be. ” She mentioned that Facebook is almost like an imaginary world. It is true; Facebook exists in a cyber world, thus making self-judgment and appearance a whole different process.

The study identied that in some cases, “people are prone to self-evaluations

based on broader social standards and norms. ” It continued to explain that moments of heightened self-awareness like looking into a mirror, hearing your own audio, or seeing pictures, can actually hurt self-esteem. Except Facebook allows you to edit your prole to become more likeable to yourself and others. This is also seen on dating websites and blogs.

Users might be adamant in putting their best foot forward because everybody uses social networking sites.

Of the all people I asked at SMC, all 10 of them had a Facebook. Even though their time spent Facebooking varied from once a week to a couple of hours each day, all said that going on boosted their ego, especially when they had more likes, notications, and/or friend requests. You can ’t deny it; people like

it when other people give them positive attention, but what about the negative?

Nikki Benoit, an activist for the Vegan Outreach Program who has recently been spending time on the SMC campus said, “Facebook is absolutely an ego booster or ego crusher depending on the situation. ” What happens when you eagerly log on, only to nd that the most recent activity has been your status update? It can suck the life right out of you.

This should be a wake-up call to Facebook users. Self-esteem should not be dependent on what goes on in the Facebook world. Because Facebook is just that: another world, an alternate reality. It is scary to think how much of an impact Facebook can have, and we should realize how inconsequential social networking sites are in life.

Editorial Cartoon

Sabine Gallas Contributor

Corrections for Volume C, Issue 17: Last week, an article titled “Campus sees stars ” mistakenly dubbed the science of astronomy as astrology. The event covered centered on the science of astronomy and was part of a recent planetarium series that has taken place at the John Drescher Planetarium. The Corsair would like to acknowledge that astrology is not a science and that there are no “astrology students ” here at SMC. Astrology deals with horoscopes, which foresee the future with no scientic basis. Astronomy is a well-recognized science that is studied at SMC and has helped man navigate the ocean and explore the world throughout the millennium.

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Spring 2011 Staff Jonathan Bue Guiliana Dakdouk John Stapleton IV Sal Guerra Brian White Anisa El-Khouri Stephanie Forshee Vera Hughes Miles Arnold Neelofer Lodhy Ayla Pound Alessandra Catanese

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Online Editor Photo Editor Photo Editor Photo Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor A&E Editor Lifestyle Editor Multimedia Editor

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SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

12

March 16, 2011

SPORTS

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Consistency and condence fuel Corsairs

By Miles Arnold Sports Editor With last year ’s state championship loss in the rear view mirror, SMC women ’s tennis is staying focused this season with aspirations to return to the championships and bring a title to Santa Monica College.

They understand that it will take hard work, perseverance, and a strong team bond throughout the season to get back to that point and continue their winning ways.

“If we are going to win it all, we are going to have to act like a team, ” said co-captain Gwendolyn Kauffmann.

“We can ’t have any drama. ” As a team, the Corsairs are confident in their ability to win, but Kauffmann stresses how the team must stay strong, focused, and together.

Sophomore co-captain Jutta Collet, who has played tennis her whole life, agrees that being strong as a team is important even in an individual sport like tennis and finds that having her teammates around helps motivate her.

“As team captains, we have to lead by example and keep the team together, ” said Kauffmann. Both captains have been playing tennis for most of their lives, and since playing at Santa Monica College, have developed a strong bond with their teammates.

Head coach Richard Goldenson has been at SMC for the last 11 years building the winning program; he feels that he has found a group of

“smart, self-disciplined, competitive athletes ” to represent SMC. As a former tennis player himself, Goldenson has had many coaches over the years which is what he says has helped him develop his own style of coaching.

Robert Lansdorp, who has coached tennis stars Pete Sampras and Maria Sharapova was one of the coaches that influenced Goldenson during his playing days.

“You take a little bit from each teacher, ” said Goldenson, “Lansdorp is just one of the coaches I model myself after. ” This year, one of Goldenson ’s methods involves stepping back and giving his players more responsibility to come to work motivated. “There is no perfect system to make things run smooth, ” said Goldenson. “I ’ve had no rules this year. ” Alluding to the trust he has in his players, Goldenson believes “They are self-regulating, knowing what they need to do to reach the top of their game. ” At this point the season is more than half way over, and although the Corsairs got off to a dominant start, they understand that there are still a lot of important matches coming up beginning this Friday with their match at Santa Barbara.

“It ’s very important, ” said head coach Goldenson. “They are a tough team to beat. ” Santa Barbara is currently second in

George Mikhail Corsair Coach Richard Goldenson reviews the upcoming schedule with players Hanna Sacher and Jutta Collet before a practice at Memorial park in Santa Monica calif.

the conference behind the Corsairs, and a loss could mean a possible tie at the end of the season and lower seeding in the playoffs at seasons end.

“We want to get the highest seed possible, ” said Goldenson. “These practices are more important than the games themselves, we have to bring our A game. ” Hanna Sacher, a freshman from Agoura Hills, understands the importance of the upcoming match.

In her first year with the team, Sacher feels there is added pressure on her

to perform well down the stretch. She understands that the team had great success last season and doesn ’t want to be the one to let her teammates down.

“It ’s motivation for me because I ’m new, ” said Sacher, “I don ’t want to let anyone down who was here last year. ” After Santa Barbara, the Corsairs will have just 5 matches left before playoffs begin on April 15. “The competition is good in conference, ” said Kauffmann.

“Even if you play a 5 or 6,that are still good, we can ’t let up. ”

Lockout puts NFL season in jeopardy

By William Courtney Staff Writer For the rst time since 1987, the NFL has a work stoppage threatening its ’ season.

Last Friday, the NFL Player ’s Association decertied and led an antitrust suit against the NFL, which marked the beginning of a lockout.

While the war between the players and owners over money may be resolved by the time the upcoming season rolls around, it will effect the rest of the spring and summer off-season.

The impact of a lockout would certainly affect the players. The NFC West Blog on ESPN explained that a lockout would prevent players and their organizations from having any contact with one another. This would effect conditioning, cohesiveness, and rhythm in a sport where all three are key to winning.

The real problem with a lockout is that the

NFL is more than just players, coaches, and owners. It will also affect people who work for the organizations or work at football stadiums. Merchandise sales will plummet, beer sales will fall, and without football people will be wondering why FOX and CBS still exist.

A recent USA Today article explained, the NFL makes $9 Billion a year and would lose around $400 million a week, each week during the lockout. People would probably watch less SportsCenter, NFL Live wouldn ’t exist, and many reporters would be temporarily out of a job.

Take for instance bars, which love the NFL season because it equates to huge prots on Sunday ’s and Monday ’s.

O ’Brien ’s Irish Pub, on the corner of 23rd and Wilshire here in Santa Monica is just one of the bars that would take a hit if games were not played this year. Owner of 18 years, Willy O ’Sullivan, said “losing the NFL could be the last straw for a lot of businesses. ”

While O ’Brien ’s is more than a sports bar, they still brought in 40 percent more business on NFL Sunday ’s compared with regular Sunday ’s. O ’Sullivan expects to lose money because bars are a “squeezed industry ” and people these days don ’t have a lot of extra money to spend.

Bars are a huge source of revenue for communities because they attract business and also offer numerous jobs. Another example taken from the Santa Monica tourism website, show that there are some fty bars in the Santa Monica area alone and that ’s just a tiny fraction of bars that exist in the Los Angeles area.

Is this going to be the end of hamburgers, beer, and drunken conservations, as we know it?

Even for those of us who prefer to watch out of the comfort of our own home, will not be participating in special Sunday or Monday night rituals. This dip in excessive splurging will inuence grocery stores,

merchandising companies, and even the homeless people, who will probably nd less cans to go through.

Even worse, NFL fans will nd a huge chunk of their time available to do other things. I and other students might actually spend a Sunday doing homework instead of watching football. Monday might actually become the most hated night of the week.

Fans might have to start spending time with family, cleaning the house, or even resort to mingling with people outside their group of friends.

Church and ESPN Bowling might be the new thing to do on Sunday ’s. Imagine a bunch of educated, religious people talking about politics at the bowling alley, while enjoying a club soda.

Am I the only one who is freaked out by that picture? Some people resort to music, others art, but many rely on the comfort of sports, and life without the NFL would change the very essence of who they are.

SCORES & SCHEDULES MEN ’S VOLLEYBALL March 9 Long beach def. Santa Monica 25-23, 13-25, 22-25,13-25.

March 11 LA Pierce def. Santa Monica 21-25, 26-24, 24-26, 23-25

Upcoming: Wed, March 19 vs SMC Alumni @ SMC - 6 p.m.

SOFTBALL

SMC 8, Mission 7 SMC 14, Mission 17

Upcoming: Thurs, March 17 @ Canyons - 2:30 p.m.

Thurs, March 22 @ Bakerseld - 2:30 p.m.

SWIMMING

Upcoming: Fri, March 25 vs LA Valley/Ventura@ Canyons - 2:30 p.m.

TENNIS March 8

Santa Monica def. Bakerseld SMC 7, AHC 2

Upcoming: Tue, March 15 @ Allan Hancock - 2:00 p.m.

Fri, March 18 @ Santa Barbara -2:00 p.m.