Issue 7, Nov.1

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: HOMECOMING: THE GAME AND MORE...

NIO U N

FEATURES: PAGE 3: SEASONAL COFFEE BLENDS AND SPECIALTY DRINKS

EL CAMINO COLLEGE

November 1, 2012

Torrance, California

Superstorm Sandy prompts concern over disaster preparedness Viridiana Vaca-Rios Editor-in-Chief

MAJOR Images of destroyed homes found floating in millions of pieces atop a river of gushing waCALIFORNIA ter, gusts of strong powerful winds and video teams lifting people out of EARTHQUAKES ofthesearch-and-rescue water were shown in millions of TV screens across the country this past week, all chronicling SINCE the extensive damage caused by Superstorm Sandy.

1900

1

5 7

3 3

1) 1906: An 8.3 earthquake killed 700 people in San Francisco 2) 1933: A 6.3 earthquake in Long Beach killed 115 people 3) 1952: A 7.7 earthquake near Bakersfield killed 12 people 4) 1971: A 6.5 earthquake killed 65 people in San Fernando 5) 1980: A 5.8 earthquake damaged a nuclear weapons laboratory in Livermore 6) 1987: A 5.9 earthquake in Whittier killed 8 people 7) 1989: A 7.1 earthquake in the San Francisco area killed 63 8) 1994: A 7.5 earthquake in L.A. killed 61 people

4

4

88

66 2

2

Information and California map courtesy of Geology.com

Student robbed at gunpoint on campus

As people all over the country watched the storm unravel and cause mass destruction in the East Coast, it made some wonder if their own plans in case of a disaster would be enough to save them.

Unlike the millions of people on the East Coast who are enduring Hurricane Sandy’s aftermath, those living in Southern California have no way of knowing when the big-one will hit.

“We are trying to prepare as a society for disasters. In the case of earthquakes, we do not know when they are coming, unlike the warnings of hurricanes and tsunamis,” Joe Holliday, geology professor, said.

According to the Discovery website, the last big earthquake before the year 1900, was a 7.9 magnitude earthquake and hit in 1857, making that 153 years ago.

This means that the next “Big One” could happen at any time.

“I’m worried of what situation I am going to face if the big one happens,” Sang Tran, 20, nursing major said. “So my family is preparing for it by saving water in big bottle containers and storing them in the garage so that when it happens we have a water supply.

We also have a lot of instant food just in case it

Karen Garcia

Four juveniles, who had been on a spree of illegal activities, allegedly robbed a male student at gunpoint on campus Oct. 17, Sgt. Dale Toruno said.

The male student was walking on a campus road near Parking Lot D when he was approached by a white, four-door vehicle with four occupants, Toruno said.

Toruno also said that one of the subjects who got out of the vehicle, allegedly brandished what appeared to be a Beretta 9 mm gun and demanded the student’s property.

“If somebody points a gun at you, give them what they want,” Toruno said. “Give them gas money; give them a piece of gum (and) get’em the hell outta there.”

After the student complied, the subjects got back into the vehicle and exited onto Manhattan Beach Boulevard, Toruno said.

The student went to his car in Parking Lot F and exited onto Manhattan Beach Boulevard, where he flagged down a Gardena police officer at the McDonald’s on the corner of Manhattan Beach and Crenshaw boulevards, Toruno said.

“They (the four juveniles) took his phone Toruno said. “Gardena (police) called us (and) we responded to McDonalds.”

In preparation for a last football game before renovation, Murdock Stadium celebrates with Murdock Madness Saturday, Nov. 3, according to a press release October 19.

“It’s going to be different,” Royshaun Lewis, 20, defensive back, said. “It also feels good. I can leave EC knowing I played in one of the greatest college stadiums in the nation.”

The historic Murdock Stadium will be torn down to make way for phase two of the Kinesiology and Fitness Complex project, scheduled to be open the summer of 2014, according to the press release.

The $37.2 million project includes the reconstruction of a new stadium that contains a field for both football and soccer, as well as a running track. The renovation of the field will definitely benefit the athletic program. “The field is in rough shape” Rafael Guerro, sports information associate said. “The field slants on the edges. I’m surprised there hasn’t been any injuries. It is in need of a face lift.”

The idea of Murdock Madness, in light of commemorating the stadium was Tony Barbone’s,” Guerro said. It was “his brain child.”

“This isn’t your stereotypical tailgate,” Tony Barbone, athletic director said. “We

Staff Writer

NEWS LINE

- See “ROBBERY” on Page 2

By Victor Liptzin

Hot water heaters store 20 gallons of water, which is safe to use in case of an emergency.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is starting to raise awareness that earthquakes are not our only hazard, Holliday said.

There is a possibility of horrible floods due to El Nino or atmospheric rivers (relatively narrow regions in the atmosphere that are responsible for most of the horizontal transport of water vapor outside of the tropics), according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Last month, EC practiced what to do in case of an earthquake in the annual “Shake Out” and although thousands of students participated in it and thought about the big earthquake, they still have yet to prepare for it.

“Preparing for the big earthquake is something that I keep thinking about doing, but have not really put into action yet,” Seth Daugherty, Reference Librarian, said. “After the California emergency drill that we just had, I kept thinking of it more and more.”

Other students like Joseph Bryant, 29 Business major believes that just like the Y2K or the alleged end of the world on Dec. 21 of this year, that the big earthquake might not even happen.

“With the big one, I am only worried if I will be able to survive or not.,” Bryant said. “Like other events that we had been warned before (like the Y2K scare), it is something that might or might not happen.”

According to www.news.discovery.com also said that the strong earthquakes, which are between 6.5 and 7.9 magnitude, shook the area every 45-144 years, instead of the previously established 250-400 years.And although no one knows when it can hit, the “next one” is past overdue.

Whether one believes in what they call hype or not, it never hurts to be prepared.

Those interested in finding out what to do before, during and after an earthquake can visit www.eccunion.com for more information.

-Karly Daquila contributed to this story

Final football game at Murdock Stadium

Coree Heard Staff Writer

happens.”

The chance of hurricanes or tsunamis happening in Los Angeles are very low, the majority of disasters that people need to be prepared for are those that can’t be predicted.

“There is no such thing as earthquake weather.

They don’t happen at a certain time during the day or when the planets align. It’s when stress builds up on the earth’s interior,” Holliday said. “Earthquakes are the only natural disaster other than an avalanche where it happens with no warning.”

The Discovery website also said that “with 37 million people living in Southern California, chiefly in the cities of Los Angeles, San Diego and Anaheim, a major earthquake could kill between 2,000 and 50,000 people and cause billions of dollars in damage.”

“In order to be fully prepared for a natural disaster, California residents need to take small precautions into consideration to ensure safety for them and loved ones,” Holliday said. “By securing household items with safety straps, ‘Quake Hold’ putty and screws and hooks, you will be spending less than $10 that may eventually save you hundreds, or even someone’s life.”

Some students admit that their lack of planning and prepardness in case of an earthquake, leaves them apprehensive.

“I am not prepared. We have emergency kits but thats about it. We don’t have canned food or bottled water at home stored,” Minkah Smith, 18, psychology major. said. “I know what we need to do to be prepared but we haven’t taken the initiative to actually get it done. I haven’t really thought about earthquakes. Looking at the news and seeing all the damages from hurricane Sandy, it scares me.”

While stores are legally not allowed to sell customers anything after a disaster for three or four days, people should make sure that each person in the home has five gallons of water and an additional supply for pets, Holliday said.

He also suggested that in situations where one cannot access water, it is best to know where to find it in one’s home.

wanted to create something that’s re- but it has also been used as a filming site starring Adam Sandler. spectful and enjoyable.” for movies such as “The Longest Yard,” According to the press release, “Murdock Stadium first opened in November 24, 1949 for the Warriors homecoming game against East Los Angeles College.”

Having only worked four years at EC, Barbone hasn’t experienced the historic events of Murdock Stadium, but he has thoroughly enjoyed hearing his coworker share their experiences with him.

According to the press release, Murdock Stadium has had its share of individual athletic accomplishments. “Former Warriors quarterback and current University of Washington football head coach Steve Sarkisian racked up 645 passing yards in 1994, still a record for a single game.”

Murdock Madness isn’t about just celebrating the last football to be played on the field. “TThe game is just part of the event,” said Barbone. “It permeates the enthusiasm and affection that people have for the stadium.”

Philip Prins/ Union Murdock Stadium has not only Murdock Stadium, boasting its national and state championships, as well as a rich cultual history, hosted football and soccer games waits as plans for upcoming renovations will leave the field out out of commission temporarily.

Personal Statement workshop

Murdock Madness game and ceremony

Roaring ‘20s themed Homecoming Dance

Nursing Information workshop

Associates transfer workshop

There will be a personal statement workshop on Nov. 5 from 3-4 p.m. in the Distance Education Center.

It will be hosted by the Transfer Center and it is open to the public.

For more information contact the Transfer Center at (310) 660-3593, ext. 3408.

Murdock Stadium will be hosting one last Football game against Mt. Sac College. This event will be opened to the public. There will be a ceremony before the game. The game will take place on Saturday at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Tony Barbone at 310-660-3547.

Students are welcome to attend a “Great Gatsby” dance. It will take place in the Activites Center on Saturday starting at 9 p.m after the football game. Tickets are on sale today in the quad for $5. Cost is $3 with ASB sticker.

For students planning to be nurses, there will be training at the EC - Distance Ed. Center on Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. A workshop/training for students will be sponsored. For more information contact Janice Ishkawa at 310-660-3458, ext. 3433.

Looking forward to getting your AA or AST degree quickly? Attend the AA/AST workshop on Nov. 8 from 1-2 p.m. To attend this event visit the EC Social Science Building Room 202. For more info contact the Transfer Center at 310-660-3593, ext.

3408.

NEWS

2 El Camino College Union POLICE BEAT

By Coree Heard

Student loans are not recommended by counselors Coree Heard Staff Writer

Laptop stolen in the Schauerman Library Oct. 26, 11:40 a.m.– Officer responded to the station regarding a theft report. A male student walked away from his laptop in the library to look for a book.

When he returned, his laptop was missing. There were no witnesses.

Biker ran a stop sign and was issued a citation Oct. 24, 3:50 p.m.– An officer observed a male non-student illegally ride his bike through a stop sign in Parking Lot J. After conducting a traffic stop, it was revealed that the male had a $30,000 warrant. He was issued a citation and was released on the scene.

Female instructor’s wallet stolen out of bag Oct. 24, 12:30 p.m.– After a female instructor’s wallet was stolen from the Humanities Building, an officer responded to the situation.

Student was cited for a parking violation Oct. 23, 7 p.m.– Officers responded to Parking Lot C to assist a cadet issuing a parking violation to a female student who had a $40,000 arrest warrant for vandalism. The student was issued a citation for the warrant and released on the scene.

Female instructor felt sick and vomited Oct. 23, 9:30 a.m.– Officers responded to the social science building regarding a medical aid call after a female instructor vomited. After paramedics arrived, the instructor was transported to an area hospital.

Instructor strikes her head during class.

Oct. 22, 9:30 a.m.– After a female instructor fainted and hit her head on the classroom floor, officers responded to the physics department.

November 1, 2012

Student loan debt is rising yearly and is expected to reach a record of $1 trillion this year, according to business.time.com.

Since 2007, student loan debt has doubled and the percentage of students who are in default (exceeding nine months of late payments) has increased, according to business.time.com.

“Honestly, some students take out loans because they’re available,” Hortense Cooper, director of financial aid, said. “We wouldn’t recommend loans at all. We discourage them. If you look at just educational cost there would be no need for community college students to take out student loans.”

Advisers and directors ask potential student loan borrowers to create a budget to see how much it will cost for them to go to school, which is a part of the process of obtaining a loan, Cooper added.

Students are informed that loans have to be used only for educational purposes by the financial aid director and adviser, Maria Elena Dominguez, financial aid adviser, said.

“I think if they’re properly used with

the intent that they were made for, it’s useful,” Dominguez said. “Unfortunately a lot of students use it for the wrong purpose, which is to supplement their income.”

The reason community college students take out loans is actually additional expenses, Cooper said.

There is a budget worksheet that is given to those students who desire a loan, which is meant “to give them an idea of what they actually need and not what they want,” Dominguez said.

“Especially for those students who are serious about continuing their education, if they start borrowing at the community college level, they can leave school owing $50,000, $75,000, or $100,000,” Cooper said.

“It started at $35,000 (in student loans),” Johnathan Bazan, 27, computer engineering major, said. “If tuition weren’t so high, then I am sure I would pay it off every semester out of my own pocket.”

The challenge for the financial director and adviser is that by the time they meet with the students, the students already have decided that they want the loan, Cooper said.

“Our goal is to give the students the best grant possible,” Dominguez said. “They

have to be processed for grants first.”

The percentage of students who borrow is low when compared to the student population, but there is still an increase every year, Cooper said. “There were “about 300 borrowers per semester last year.”

Not only can students be negatively affected by outstanding student loans, but “high default rates negatively affect the institution,” Cooper said.

“If (El Camino’s) default rate is higher than 25 percent for 3 (consecutive) years, the school faces sanctions,” Cooper added.

With EC’s 3-year official rate at 19.4 percent, the director and advisor are hoping to remain under 20 percent, Cooper said.

“We are looking at default prevention programs,” Cooper said. “We have a meeting next week (and) we are looking at definitely making some changes for (school year) 2013 – 2014.”

The director and adviser are constantly encouraging students to apply for grants, scholarships and work study, Copper said.

“Anything that is, quote unquote, free money.”

“The next generation is going to be more in debt, out of any generation known in history,” Bazan said.

Transfer tours aid decisions Angela Songco Staff Writer

With the submission of transfer applications just around the corner, the transfer center aims to provide university tours for students to make informed decisions on campus choices, Rene Lozano, transfer coordinator said.

Lozano said that the tours gave students the chance to explore university programs, ask vital admissions questions and familiarize themselves with surrounding communities.

“The main thing that I tell students when they go on tours is that despite all these benefits that they can get, at the end of the day the most important part of a tour is that it gives students a feel for the campus,” Lozano said. “It lets them (students) feel the vibe. Students can set foot on a campus that they always thought they wanted to go to, and when they get there, they might realize that they don’t like the place. That it is

not the kind of place that they see themselves. Or they don’t like the community around that campus, or there’s other characteristics about the campus that they might not like.”

“Seeing the campuses in person helped me a lot in deciding where I see myself going.”

—Sok Chhay, pre-engineering major “The transfer center scheduled these tours on days that prospective universities will have transfer events so students can get the most out of it,” Lozano said. “Rather than students going on their own and trying to talk to different people, when we take them to the event that is already organized, there is no better chance for them to talk to as many people on that campus as possible, so they can ask as many inquiries as possible.”

These tours, Lozano added, are free for EC students as long

as they are taking at least one unit.

“Students can imagine the value of being taken there for free, because nowadays with gas prices,” Lozano said. “We ask them for a $5 refundable deposit because what used to happen is we would just let anybody sign up and then they wouldn’t come. Ever since we requested a deposit, the students were more serious about showing up.

When they show up on the day of the event, we give them their money back.”

Sok Chhay, 21, pre-engineering major, said that she had gone to two university tours and she gained confidence in deciding which university to apply to.

“Seeing the campuses in person helped me a lot in deciding where I see myself going,” Chhay said. “When I went to the universities, I found out about their resource locations, and that they really exist, not just that their representatives told me that they have this and that.”

Students interested in applying for financial aid can visit the fiancial aid office.

Philip Prins/ Union Jimmy Vo, 29, nursing major, sits in the financial aid line.

Robbery Continued from page 1

The EC officer made a crime broadcast alert to other agencies in the area, alerting them that a 211 (police code for robbery) had occurred, Toruno said.

Approximately ten minutes later, EC police were advised that Manhattan Beach police were detaining a vehicle and the occupants matched the suspects’ description, Toruno said.

“The officer took the student to that location, for what we call a field show up, to see if they were the suspects that robbed him” Toruno said.

“He couldn’t positively identify the people, but they were in possession of his property and also the hand gun.”

Later, EC police were advised that the four juveniles had allegedly committed crimes in the city of Redondo Beach earlier that day, Toruno said.

After allegedly robbing the student, the juveniles allegedly robbed a pizza deliveryman in the city of Manhattan Beach, Toruno said.

The suspects were transported

to Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey “and the property was returned to the student,” Toruno added.

The Juveniles, who are from the Inglewood and Hawthorne area, are now facing numerous felonies, Toruno said.

Police discovered that the gun was a replica BB gun, which doesn’t matter for the crime, Toruno said.

Police and Los Padrinos withheld the names and details of the four juveniles because of their age.

Subsequently, the robbery has raised some students’ concerns about safety on campus.

“They raise prices every semester, but we can’t have safety in our school,” Helen Hilton, 20, pre-med major, said.

Hilton said because of her safety precautions, she had already decided to never take night classes.

“I have pepper spray just in case,” Hilton said.

Hilton said that it is important to make the campus community aware of all crimes that happen on campus.

“It’s something they (students) should know about,” Minwoo Suh, 19, mechanical engineewring major, said. “Nothing sketchy happened so far to me. I’m fine as it is.”

FEATURES

November 1, 2012

El Camino College Union

3

Seasonal Coffee Blends Viridiana Vaca-Rios Editor-in-Chief

The smell of rich, savory coffee fills the air as one walks into the local coffee shop.

The sound of coffee beans grinding in the machine echoes throughout the room and the lines of sleepy people wrap around the inside of the room.

While in line, some may have an idea of what they want and what they may need to get their energy boost for the day.

Only this time around, the distinct smell of pumpkin, peppermint and a hint of gingerbread may change a mind or two about what to get.

With the holidays quickly approaching, some may try a few coffees from what are known as the seasonal blends.

Pumpkin Spice Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, Egg Nog Latte and Salted Caramel Mocha are just a few of the most popular seasonal drinks at Starbucks.

“I always go to Starbucks when I want coffee,” Crystal King, 19, kinesiology major said. “I’ve had their Gingerbread Latte, and it is really good.”

For other students, buying these types of seasonal coffees provides them with the feeling of being merry.

I like the Christmas holiday coffee drinks, like the peppermint mocha. I normally get my holiday drinks from Starbucks,” Amber Escalona, 19, English major, said. “They charge a little

bit more than the regular drinks, but it’s not going to stop me from ordering drinks. When I order those drinks it makes me feel more festive, like the holiday music and everything just comes together and I feel cheery.”

Although the price of these specialty drinks can be a bit more than the average cup of joe, some students think it is worth the cost as these coffees aren’t served all-year long.

“Seasonal drinks are good. They are different. Whoever thought about making them was creative. I always pick the gingerbread one from Starbucks, it’s delicious,” Denzel Franklin, 19, psychology major said. “The prices are fair and they are not that much (in cost.) Besides, the holidays come around once a year.”

Specialty drinks Calories 410 Calories from Fat 140 % Daily Value* Total Fat 15g 23% Saturated Fat 9g 45% Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 45mg 15% Sodium 0mg 0% Total Carbohydrate 63g 22% Dietary Fiber 2g 8% Sugars 54g Protein 13g

Peppermint Mocha Calories 380 Calories from Fat 120 % Daily Value* Total Fat 13g 20% Saturated Fat 8g 40% Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 50mg 17% Sodium 0mg 0% Total Carbohydrate 51g 18% Dietary Fiber 0g 0% Sugars 49g Protein 14g

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Calories 390 Sodium 190 mg Total Fat 15 g Potassium 0 mg Saturated 10 g Total Carbs 49 g Polyunsaturated 0 g Dietary Fiber 0 g Monounsaturated 0 g Sugars 46 g Trans 0 g Protein 15 g Cholesterol 60 mg

Calories 320 Calories from Fat 144.0 % Daily Value * Total Fat 16g 24% Saturated Fat 10g 50% Cholesterol 90mg 30% Sodium 190mg 7% Total Carbohydrate 32g 10% Dietary Fiber 0g 0% Sugars 30g Protein 13g 26%

Gingerbread Latte Calories 320 Calories from Fat 0.0 % Daily Value * Total Fat 0g 0% Saturated Fat 0g 0% Cholesterol 5mg 1% Sodium 260mg 10% Total Carbohydrate 66g 22% Dietary Fiber 0g 0% Sugars 52g Protein 12g 24%

Caramel Brulee

Egg Nog Latte

Calories 420 Calories from Fat 140 % Daily Value* Total Fat 16g 25% Saturated Fat 9g 45% Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 50mg 17% Sodium 290mg 13% Total Carbohydrate 66g 23% Dietary Fiber 2g 8% Sugars 56g Protein 12g

Salted Caramel Mocha

*Photos and information courtesy of the Starbucks website.

EDITORIAL

4 El Camino College Union

November 1, 2012

Avoid being targeted by becoming aware of surroundings

Illustration by Karla Marmolejo

From a simple crime burglary to a potential physical threat, violent crimes is not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about EC. The on campus environment influences students to be concerned with other priorities such as texting, friends, classes and a myriad of other daily concerns that can lead to being distracted from the campus surroundings.

A distraction from a possible crime or a safety warning could be avoided if the student could be aware of their surroundings.

With the recent armed robbery that occurred in Parking Lot D, it is crucial that students pay attention to their surroundings.

A male student walking to his car shortly after dark was approached by four males in a white sedan who brandished what appeared to be a real gun.

Police later arrested the suspects and the weapon was discovered to be a BB gun, but this fact does not detract from the seriousness of the crime.

The threat of violent crime is an issue for both male and female students.

According to a 2010 crime victimization survey by the Department of Justice, men and women

were estimated to have a nearly equal chance of being subjected to a violent crime.

A full list of personal safety tips can be found at elcamino. edu in the Campus Police section.

Here are few to get started with.

Always be aware of ones surroundings.

Being alert also includes being able to see and hear so one may

The Issue • Crime on campus can happen at anytime

Our Stand • Be conscientious of your surroundings by noticing what is around you.

want to rethink having that iPod blaring at full volume with both ear buds in.

Be wary of taking short cuts across campus or to parking lots.

It might get you there faster but it could also take you away from populated areas and make you a more vulnerable target.

If students are going to theirve-

hicle, have the keys out so that one won’t have to spend time searching for them once they get there.

The campus police also offers an escort shuttle service from 6-10:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday.

To request the service, call the police department at 310-6603100.

The blue emergency police phones located outdoors on campus or the red phones inside buildings are always available and may be used to schedule a pick up.

A final safety note is to travel in groups.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department website, oneshould not resist during a robbery.

Instead, pay attention to what the robber looks like and any other useful information that could help police find the suspect.

Although this robbery should encourage students to be on their guard, the news is not all gloomy.

According to the Torrance Police Department’s crime statistics, violent crime in the city dropped 40 percent from 2010 to 2011 so let’s hope the trend continues.

In the meantime stay alert and look out for each other.

–See related article on Page 1

Student loans have long-term effects on pocketbooks after college By researching financial aid options, students can avoid burdensome student loans To many students, signing a contract and making an agreement on a loan seems to be the easy way to further develop their education and reach the American dream of being successful.

But before signing an approval form for a loan, students should get informed and conduct some background research.

What are the terms of the loan?

What will the life of the loan be? Ask experts questions about the interest rate, the length of the loan and be realistic about the post-graduation period.

Students need to stop assuming that they will land a job after graduating from college and realize that in this economy, everyone is competing for jobs.

In an article by latimes.com it was said that American house-

holds have been affected by student debt, which has doubled in the last two decades to a record of one-in-five.

Instead of students creating financial burdens for themselves they should analyze, review and understand what they are signing.

What college graduate wants to be financially overwhelmed, burdened by the stress of neverending debt?

Students need to be aware that there are other options available before committing to a student loan. Students can start by visiting fafsa.com and applying for financial aid, which is awarded differently to each student depending on their household income and number of units per semester.

There are also scholarships

and grants available for everyone.

One can earn a scholarship based on different factors: academic merit, major, interest and other programs.

Students can go online or visit the financial offices at their college to receive further information. Work-study programs are also available to students, which are provided by the college and the hours of work are based around the student’s school schedule. If those options fail and a student feels the need to take out a student loan then they should be prepared to do some cutbacks on spending and be responsible to avoid debt after graduation.

To avoid any financial debt students should read the fine print of their loan agreement and understand the rates offered in

the loan so that the interest rates don’t come as a surprise when receiving the first billing.

Follow up with payments to avoid bad credit and before pulling out a loan, get a contract that best works with your lifestyle and spending habits.

Students should resist the temptation to splurge on items that do not benefit their education and remember why they signed the contract agreement on the loan.

Keeping track of their expenses could help students manage their loans.

Learning how to budget now will help keep students’ financial matters in order so after college they will continue on the right path.

Decide prior to entering col-

lege if taking out a student loan is the right thing financially versus the other options.

According to an article on latimes.com, student loans debts are increasing for every demographic in every economic category and make up 5 percent of all debts.

Maybe to some students it really is easy to just sign for a loan and not think of the aftermath.

Taking out a loan is serious; it’s not like borrowing money from a friend and then paying them back whenever.

Loans are not easy money; if a student decides a loan is the best option for them they have to be ready to pay it off after graduating from college.

The problem with a loan is that after a student graduates there is no guarantee that they will be

working in their fields.

Some students will get lucky and find jobs while others will searh for weeks or months for employment. Also taking into consideration the possibilities of future responsibilities such as purchasing a new car, house or starting a family. The best thing students can do to avoid a financial burden is to research their option before signing any kind of loan.

Financial aid is available to everyone, whether in the option of loans, grants or scholarships.

Choosing between those options takes serious consideration that will effects ones educational and future life path.

–See related article on Page 2

Campus dining offers a variety of menu choices Extraterrestrial believers grow in large numbers CAMPUS INSIGHT The south side of campus is home to many of our performing arts students, the Fitness Center, the swimming pool and The Helen Manumaleuna Common Ground.

21, hospitality major I’m willing to bet that you don’t know what The Common Ground is? Well The Common Ground is one of our campus’ many food options and is located right outside of the Student Activities Center’s main entrance. Unfortunately, some of us don’t realize it’s there and choose to go off campus for lunch.

It has actually been on campus longer than most of the student body realizes and is definitely a better lunch option than going to McDonald’s.

I’m a part of the Inter-Club Council and our office is located inside of the Student Activities Center. The Common Ground is a godsend when I’m stuck in the office working on an upcoming event. It’s so close and the food always hits the spot.

Now when you think of food on campus you probably think of ready to eat sandwiches or snacks. How about an espresso, boba or fruit smoothie? Maybe I could interest you in a crepe? That’s right, I said it, a crepe.

The Common Ground offers both sweet and savory crepes. My steady favorite is a pepperoni, moz-

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Vol. 66, No. 07 November 1, 2012 email: eccunion@gmail.com Newsroom: (310) 660-3328 Advertising: (310) 660-3329

zarella and pesto crepe. Don’t knock it until you try it. They even make the pesto from scratch. Their savory options range from a pizza crepe with gooey cheese and marinara sauce to a veggie crepe stuffed with spinach, tomatoes and cheese to a tangy buffalo chicken crepe.

But, that’s not all, if you have a sweet tooth, I recommend “Strawberry Love” a sweet crepe with nutella, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle and powdered sugar. Not sweet enough for you? Feel free to add brownie bites and a scoop or two of ice cream.

Never forget that simplicity is an option and the original skin crepe with powdered sugar can hold you over during any lecture class. With as many addins that you can think of the options are endless.

If you ever got lost trying to find it, just follow the wonderful smell. All crepes are handmade right when you order it by the Common Grounds staff.

Satisfy your sweet cravings and hunger urges at The Common Ground, see you there!

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not represent those of the Union, its staff, editorial board or advisers.

This column is available to students and faculty. All articles may be submitted to eccunion@gmail.com.

Please note articles may be edited for content, length, and style.

Editor-in-Chief ������������������������ Viridiana Vaca-Rios News Editor....................................Viridiana Vaca-Rios Assistant News Editor...............................Rigo Bonilla Co-Opinion Editor ����������������������� Jorge Maldonado Co-Opinion Editor �������������������������� Zachary Weber Features Editor ������������������������ Viridiana Vaca-Rios Arts Editor ������������������������������� Viridiana Vaca-Rios Sports Editor ������������������������������������� Mary Alvarez Advertising Manager ��������������������Stephanie Alcorn Adviser ������������������������������������������Lori Medigovich Adviser ���������������������������������������� Kate McLaughlin Technical Support �������������������������������������Don Treat

COMMENTARY As the settlers step off of their ships and onto the new world for the first time, they greet the natives with blaster rays and mental control beams.

Rigo Bonilla News Editor According to a National Geographic poll taken earlier this year, “Thirty-six percent of Ameri cans, about 80 million people, believe UFOs exist, and a tenth believe they have spotted one.”

According to universetoday.com, there are 200 billion to 400 billion stars contained within the Milky Way galaxy alone.

Statistically, there must be life revolving around one of those stars, assuming any given star can have multiple planets and moons. However, even though life in space is probable, that doesn’t mean alien UFOs have visited Earth.

“If aliens visit us, I think the outcome would be much as when (Christopher) Columbus landed in America, which didn’t turn out well for the Native Americans,” Stephen Hawking, theoretical physicist, said according to, abcnews.com.

One version of the Thanksgiving story is that the Pilgrims came together with the Indians to rejoice the bounty of the land, but history is quite decisive about what happens when a more advanced civilization comes across a less advanced one.

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The real Thanksgiving story is that superior weaponry and a thirst for resources from virgin soil led to a bloodbath.

One civilization does not visit another without attempting to take control of resources.

If aliens in a UFO had visited Earth, they would be having a Thanksgiving harvest of our plants, minerals, or maybe even human slave labor.

With TV shows like “Ancient Aliens” being given credibility on “The History Channel” it’s easy to start attributing life’s phenomena to extraterrestrial beings.

Explaining the unexplainable was a job once designated to religion, but studies show that the number of believers is inverting.

“More than 33 million U.K. (United Kingdom) citizens believe in extraterrestrial life, compared to just over 27 million, less than half of the country who believes in God,” according to www.huffingtonpost. com.

Science has made extraordinary progress in the new millennium, but that doesn’t mean that anything remaining unexplained must be due to aliens.

In fact, humans should probably be giving thanks that the mysteries of the universe remain unsolved for a while longer.

“Such advanced aliens would perhaps become nomads, looking to conquer and colonize whatever planets they can reach,” Hawking said according to abcnews.com

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OPINION

November 1, 2012

El Camino College Union

UP FOR DEBATE

Should the drinking age be lowered to 18 or stay the same?

The drinking age needs to be lowered to 18

Karly Daquila Staff Writer

sumption.”

Therefore, once a person turns 18, they should receive all rights and priviliges that they are entitled to being an adult.

Lowering the drinking age would be ideal as young adults would find a way to get their alcohol regardless of the drinking age being 21.

Counting down the seconds until legally being able to purchase alcohol on their 21st birthday, young adults in California anticipate this right of passage into adulthood, though a majority wishes it would come sooner.

Lowering the drinking age has been a constant complaint for those who are

Illustration by Karla Marmolejo

forced to stay home or find other forms of entertainment on weekends, rather than consuming copious amounts of alcohol.

With high hopes to follow in Europe’s lowered-drinking-age footsteps, American teens idealize the laws of the European culture, often arguing that legalized alcohol consumption at younger ages will make for more responsible drinking.

However, the assumption that European teens are responsible alcohol consumers is nothing more than a myth, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

“A great percentage of young people in a majority of Europe report binge drinking at higher rates then compared to their US counterparts,” according to the National Institute for Drug Abuse.

False notions that introduced early on, alcohol consumption will gain a healthy balance was shown in 1999 as New Zealand lowered their drinking age from 20-years-old to 18-years-old, according to the American Journal for Public Health.

“Not only did drunk driving crashes increase, but youth started to drink earlier, binge drinking escalated, and in the 12 months following the decrease in legal drinking age,” according to American Journal of Public Health.

American culture is so heavily absorbed with gluttony and instant gratification that the right to alcohol should not be something to be taken lightly when human life, addiction and death is concerned.

“More than 40 percent of individuals who start drinking before the age of 13 will develop alcohol abuse. 95 percent of the 14 million people who are alcohol dependent began drinking before the legal age of 21,” according to the Journal of Substance Abuse.

Because something is introduced early on in life, or legal within the boundaries of another country, does not mean that it is a safe option for the youth of America.

Influenced by their parents, students are not voting with their heart COLUMN

Karly Daquila Staff Writer

I have never thought of myself as a political person until just recently. While carving pumpkins with a group of friends a week ago, one of my friends called me a “little politician” and at that moment I realized I was “political.”

Fresh out of high school, in 2008 I remember being easily swayed by my ex boyfriends parents to vote for a specific candidate all for the sake of lift tickets to go snowboarding with my best friend.

Completely guilty, and a 19-year-old girl who at the time “hated politics,” the outcome of the election was something that meant little to me when going up against fresh powder and new bindings.

Four years later, as I have begun immersing myself in news on deeper levels this past year, I have noticed that I have my own opinion and stance on specific when politics are concerned.

Instead of voting according to my parent’s political party (which I have been guilty of as well), I have now taken on my own ideas and have realized that standing up for your specific political beliefs is immensely important.

As American citizens, we have been given the gift of being a part of a democracy. A democracy is “a government by the people,” according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary.

Because of the progressive ac-

CAMPUS VIEWPOINTS

CAMPUS CORNER

By Coree Heard

The drinking age needs to stay at 21

Zachary Weber Co-Opinion Editor

As young adults mature and grow up, they may become curious with alcohol as they start college.

It has become evident that young teenaged adults will find a way to get through the 21-year-old age limit.

It’s no secret that young adults drink before they are 21. One has either done it, thought about it or doing it at the moment.

Either way young adults are going to find a way to get their alcohol.

Although many teenagers are aware that consuming alcohol before the legal age is illegal, they will more than likely take a risk and do it anyway, for whatever reason it may be.

House parties, fraternity houses and dorm parties is were the drinking usually takes place.

According to www.drinkingage.com, about 29 states allow underage drinking if it is done in the privacy of their own home, 25 if drinking is being done for a religious reason and seven states if for educational reasons such as culinary school.

So why not legalize underage drinking to 18 years of age?

After all, there is only so much that the police can do to stop young adults from drinking.

Police can’t just walk into a house party, and start aressting people.

In towns like Athens Oh. and State College Pa. were the population averages around 30,000 college students are more than likely to drink.

Ohio University and Penn State University rank in the top 10 for party schools according to the Princeton Review.

If at 18 years old we can join the military and fight for our country then why can’t young adults drink?

According to the same website, “18 is the age of adulthood in the United States, and adults should have the right to make their own decisions about alcohol con-

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tions of men and women generations before us, there is equality among genders and nationalities to vote as American citizens. We have been given the privilege of taking part in choosing our leaders and policies.

I am not writing this column to sell a specific candidate or way in which students should vote, but rather to challenge students at EC to get involved and know what is at stake this election and beyond the Nov. 6 ballot.

As students and voters, a majority of us fall into the age bracket of ages 18-29, according to the Center for Information on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE); there are 24 percent of registered voters in the U.S. Much is at stake this election, especially for students. As voting citizens we are taking a step towards deciding how our future will unfold in upcoming years.

After I got over the whole idea

of being “not political” and realized that local, national and global awareness are all immensely important, I was able to see that through knowledge came understanding and advocacy.

By becoming knowledgeable in politics and forming and strengthening my own beliefs, I have felt an independence and strength through the prospect of casting my vote and creating change through my ballot.

Caring about politics and being aware on current events, makes changing the world for the better a possibility. Instead of sitting on the sidelines wishing for something to happen, voters are able to affect the future.

The idea that one vote will not make a difference may be a thought in the back of many minds, but with negative thoughts, a country cannot move forward to better itself. Negativity comes from those who have potential to

be the leaders of tomorrow will stifle possible growth.

“In an election, every voice is equally powerful. Don’t underestimate your vote. Voting is the great equalizer,” Maya Angelou, a Global Renaissance Women, said.

The process of politics and voting isn’t about trying to change another person’s vote, it’s about further understanding your own beliefs.

Please connect with me by email at karlydaquila@gmail.com Follow me on Twitter @ECCUnionKarly

Erica Soohoo President Alpha Gamma Sigma

Erica Soohoo is the president of Alpha Gamma Sigma. The club meets every second and fourth Tuesday of every month in the Math Building at 1 p.m.

What exactly is AGS? AGS is a statewide organization of the California community colleges and we are a chapter of that organization.

What is the name of EC’s chapter?

Alpha Phi. What are the requirements for AGS? Our requirements are just that you have a 3.0 GPA or if you are coming from high school, a 3.5 GPA. In addition to your GPA you will have to pay dues to the club.

How much are the club dues?

Dues are $20, or with proof of financial aid it’s $10.

What are the requirements for its members?

Once you have been accepted into the club, you have to do 10 service points.

How can members earn the 10 service points?

You do that with the three C’s, which are Campus, Community, and Club. For example, to earn service points for campus you can help out with homecoming, community, or volunteer for tutoring.

What are some of the events that ASG has had in the past?

We participate in Club Rush, children’s holiday party, the blood drive and a lot of other events.

What is your favorite part about being in AGS? I like that AGS allows the range for people to be as involved as they choose to be, whether it’s a little or a lot.

Join the conversation online at www.eccunion.com The views expressed in this column are those of the author. They do not represent the views or opinions of the Union, its staff, editorial board or advisers.

Should the drinking age be lowered to 18 or stay the same?

By Zachary Weber

REPORTED FROM CAFE CAMINO

Victoria Liu, 26, Nursing Major

Gabriel Nguyen, 18, English Major

Giselle Enriquez, 19, Biology Major

Jade Goodmanson, 21, Information Tech Major

Josh Huaembukie, 24, Political Science Major

Jonathan Hernandez, 23, Criminal Justice Major

“No. 18 year olds are to young they are not mature enough.”

“Yes. I feel it’s easy for 18 year olds to gain access to alcohol.”

“No. The brain is not mature and my parents got hit by a drunken driver.”

“Yes. If you can go to war at 18, you should be able to drink at 18.”

“No. 21 year olds are more mature. I still see 18 year olds as a teenager.”

“Yes. Either way if they are 18 or not, they will find a way too drink.”

ARTS

6 El Camino College Union

November 1, 2012

ON THE SCENE Philip Prins

Dance ASO hosts “A Night With the Great Gatsby” The Associated Students Organization will host its annual Homecoming Dance Saturday from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. in the East Dinning Room above the Bookstore. The theme of the dance is “A Night With the Great Gatsby” and will feature 1920s style entertainment and dancing as well as the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen. Tickets and information can be obtained through the Inter-Club Council located in the Student Activities Center.

Theater “Noises Off”showing in Campus Theatre The comedic play “Noises Off,” written by Michael Frayn and directed by Luke Yankee, will be showing in the Campus Theatre at 8 p.m. tomorrow and Saturday as well as Nov. 9-10 and will show at 3 p.m. on Nov. 11. .

Tickets are $15 and may be purchased from the Ticket Office, on the Center for the Arts website or by calling 1-800-832-ARTS.

Art Managing money speaker Rachel Cruze will be speaking on the topic of managing personal money tomorrow at 8 p.m. in the Marsee auditorium. Tickets are $26 and may be purchased from the Ticket Office, on the Center for the Arts website or by calling 1-800-832-ARTS.

Mike Stone/Union Drawing since she was 5, Willow Springer stands with her painting “Sunset City” which is a sort of city-scape blended with a traditional map.

Mike Stone/ Union Julian Montelongo,26, poses with one of his paintings “Olive” painted directly on wood. Drawing for much many years he got into painting in 2007 and this year started doing live painting.

Art club promotes local artists Brooke Buckaway Staff Writer

Carefully dipping their paint brushes in the brightly colored paint, they stroke their brushes in circular motion, letting their creativity and mind run wild.

Starting off as a simple gallery and management course developed into something so much more.

As of this fall semester, the new club on campus, Studio 2 Street, has taken strides to becoming one of the top clubs on campus for EC artists and local talent.

“Our gallery management professor, Michael Miller, encouraged several of us to start a club that promotes local artist,” Charles Nygen, club president and photography and accounting major, said about the birth of the club.

“We have to support the arts or else we lose part of our souls,” Cynthia Silverman, reading professor and club member, said. “This club allows us to consider marketing our art and taking it from the studio to the streets and make people aware of this program and how many gifted and talented students there are.”

The purpose of the club is to encourage artists to promote their work and allow the public to see their art while at the same time gaining support from the local art community.

“The one thing I love about this club is that it gives you the platform for you to help build connections to close the gap between the local artists and the community,” Terell

Black, photography major, said.

With the art community being very close and tight knit, it is difficult for new artists to show their work, Black said.

Studio 2 Street gives many artists the tools needed to be working artists and learn several of the basics, such as how to hang a painting or how to market their art.

“The club is pretty much focused on the artists side of art,” Nygen said. “We show them the basics like how to create a blog, hang a painting, or do a collaboration.”

The name of the club stemmed from the idea of taking the artist out of their studio and showing their art in the street and encouraging the students involved in the club to promote their art.

“The artist is always so busy in their studios that they need to move to the street and promote their art,” Silverman said. “You have to put it out there.”

Although the club has only been official for a few weeks, the impact Studio 2 Street has had on its members has been tremendous.

“It’s a great environment for people to give their opinion about your art and give you necessary resources for different connections and collaborations,” Black said.

The club’s first exhibition will take place at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles, until Nov. 4 and will showcase a wide variety of art that will be up for sale.

“I’m usually the person who likes to show their art and this time around I helped curate for two of my friends,” Black said. “I am so happy about it and the opportunity to

help other people out, especially my friends.”

Crafted is open to the public Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with parking costing $5.

Although the impact of the club has been great, the founding members faced several roadblocks on their way to becoming an official EC club.

“We found that unless we were a formal club on campus there would be roadblocks,” Silverman said. “We had enough students who wanted to participate in the club but not enough of them had ASB stickers and we had to drag some of the students to the activities office to get them.”

Several of the club members have been actively working on making the club official since the summer time and to their excitement, Studio 2 Street has finally become an official EC club.

The final exhibition of the semester will take place at Sacred Grounds Coffee House in San Pedro on Dec. 6.

The club members encourage students to take a break from finals to enjoy a little bit of the amazing art that is still to come from Studio 2 Street.

For additional photos, visit our website at www.eccunion.com

Fashion designer caters to children with disabilities Angela Songco

Staff Writer

Standing backstage, she watches the colorful fabrics and designed garments flowing freely across the runway.

One design and model in particular catches her attention.

Taking a step at a time and leaning on her walker, the model, who is also her sister brings the tulip-inspired tutu creation to life with every move she makes.

Drea DiMassa, 23, fashion design major, said that her interest in designing garments that cater to children with special needs started when her sister was born.

“My sister opened my eyes and inspires me to care for children with special needs,” DiMassa said. “Seeing her struggle with her condition has really just touched me in so many ways. Things that we take for granted like buttoning a shirt can be complex for them. I want to make clothing that will allow them to get in and out of a clothing easily and comfortably.”

She added that, aside from designing clothes for children, she also donates her time and some of her designs to help raise funds for a charity that takes care of young boys who have fatal muscle conditions.

The charity is called Looking back, DiMassa said she started her interest in fashion when she was in second grade.

“I remember I would always try to rebel against my mom’s will, although she just wanted me to focus on getting an education more than worrying about what I was going to wear,” DiMassa said. “I would always try to wear makeup to school. She would remind me that I am not going to school to do a fashion show but to learn.”

Ever since then, DiMassa said she had acquired a strong sense of fashion and has enjoyed designing.

“I love being creative,” she said. “I love just being able to conceive something in my mind and be able to put it on paper and actually go to the process of drafting a pattern and selecting and cutting the fabric then sewing it together. Then I alter the design as I go along, until I get the look that I want.”

DiMassa has been honing her talent with the help of Lynn Strobel fashion design instructor, who has seen her work improve over the course of the classes she (DiMassa) had taken.

“She has a strong fashion sense,” Strobel said. “She also knows how to work her pattern and she knows how to drape beautifully.

Drea (DiMassa) works hard and is full of determination. She has what it takes to succeed in fashion business and in life.”

Sudoku

Philip Prins/ Union Drea DiMassa, 23, fashion design major, ties up the back of a top she designed for a EC fashion show made from the pages of her favorite magazine “Nylon.”

Strobel added that DiMassa had exceptional talent in making children’s garments thatwas recognized during the 2011 EC fashion show as the best designer collection.

“Drea (DiMassa) is always fascinated with children,” Strobel added. “She had a collection of adorable, beautiful, light and very ‘costumy’ children’s clothing.”

But just like how it can be tedious to create and execute a design, DiMassa’s life is not without a challenge she said.

“Right now life is a balancing act,” she said.

“My schedule is super-packed all the time. I go to school full-time, have a 3-month old baby, work full-time as a nanny of a little girl who has a special condition and design and man-

age products for my online business. I have a lot going on right now.”

Although DiMassa has a lot on her plate, she plans to keep working toward her goal of making garments and designs for people with disabilities.

Blair Hernandez, 22, fashion design major, said that DiMassa always has an unselfish and friendly personality both in her work and in helping others.

“She is really nice and approachable,” Hernandez said. “Whenever I see her she is like ‘I just want to put you on a (fashion) show.’ She gives good criticisms whenever we need her opinion on our garments.”

DiMassa said she aims to use fashion not only for the sake of being fashionable, but she wants to use it as a tool to give others comfort and bright outlook in life.

“Fashion designing opened a lot of doors,” DiMassa said. “For one I was able to get my name out there. But it allows me to help people while doing something that I love doing.”

Fill every row across, every column down, and every 3x3 box with the digits 1 through 9.

Each digit must appear only once in each row across, each column down and each 3x3 box.

For the solution to the puzzle, visit the Union website, www.eccunion.com

November 1, 2012

ON DECK

By Mary Alvarez

SPORTS

Saturday at 6 p.m. at EC vs. Mt. San Antonio College

MEN’S SOCCER Tomorrow at 4 p.m. at L.A. Harbor College Tuesday at 3 p.m. at East LA College

WOMEN’S SOCCER Tomorrow at 2 p.m. at L.A. Harbor College Tuesday at 1 p.m. at East LA College

WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL Tomorrow at 6 p.m. at EC vs. Cerritos College Wednesday at 6 p.m. at EC vs. Pasadena City College

MEN’S WATER POLO Tomorrow and Saturday at Rio Hondo College

WOMEN’S WATER POLO Today at 12:45 p.m. at Cerritos College

7

Women’s volleyball team wins in three sets Zachary Weber

FOOTBALL

El Camino College Union

Co-Opinion Editor

With one thundering kill after another, freshman Nicole Echeverri, outside hitter, was focused and ready to deliver in a huge way.

“She (Echeverri) is one of our dominant players and is the definition of what an outside hitter is about,” Freshman Celeste Tuioti-Mariner, outside hitter, said.

Echeverri said that staying relaxed was the key for her success.

“I try to stay calm and don’t overthink the play, if I don’t overthink things then I will have a good performance,” Echeverri said.

“She (Echeverri) played good. She goes for every ball and is consistent,” sophomore Karlee Napoleon, defensive specialist, said of Echeverris’ performance.

The Warriors cruised past L.A. Harbor College winning in three sets 25-16, 25-10, 25-17.

Echeverri led the team with 15 kills and nine digs. Sophomore Britney Kronberger, middle blocker, chipped in with eight kills, two digs and two blocks.

Sophomore Tarryn Luafalemana, middle blocker, was a scratch due to an illness and sophomore Nigeria Owens, middle blocker, was on a recruiting trip in Texas.

Kronberger, middle blocker and TuiotiMariner got the start.

“It felt like I was filling some big shoes,” Tuioti-Mariner. “It didn’t really bother me though.”

Tuioti-Mariner credits the setters.

“Both of our setters (Suekalena Tafao and Allison Lim) did a really good job,” Tuioti-Mariner said. “Allison went out there

and did what she was supposed to do. I was proud of them.”

Freshman Elise Tizon, outside hitter, said this team enjoyed itself playing as a group and getting to know each other better.

“We had a lot of fun. There was a lot of energy,” Tizon said. “This is the first game where we had the most fun.”

Coach Le Valley Pattison said she thinks the team has been coming together.

“We played well,” Pattison said. “I think we played much better, more fluid and didn’t commit a lot of errors.”

Assistant coach Liz Hazzell said that it was good being able to put in other players in the game who normally don’t get a chance to participate in the games.

“The setters were doing a better job with focusing on eliminating the mistakes,” Pattison said.

Echeverri agrees and said the team has improved at correcting its unforced errors.

“Communication has been our biggest problem in the past and taking care of the ball,” Echeverri said.

Tuioti-Mariner said she thinks the team has come a long way.

“We have improved a lot; we know each others tendencies a little bit better know,” Tuioti-Mariner said.

“There is good chemistry. It’s later on in the season and everyone is getting comfortable with each other,” Napoleon said.

The Warriors have high hopes going forward and hope to make a deep run in the playoffs.

“Our ultimate goal is to go to state,” Tuioti-Mariner said.

“And I honestly truly believe we can get there.”

Philip Prins/ Union Lindsey Colbert, right-side hitter for the Warriors, drives the volleyball past Lindsay Rivas, outside hitter, for a kill early in the teams’ third set against the L.A. Harbor College Seahawks. The Warriors beat the Seahawks, 3-0.

Women’s cross-country team ready for the So.Cal Regional Championship Brooke Buckaway Staff Writer

It was a particularly windy Thursday morning.

As the Warriors took their marks behind the starting line, the murmurs of eager runners rose as the wind whipped across their faces.

The signal went off and a sea of uniforms charged forward being led by the blue and white banners that guided their path.

Mt. San Antonio College was in the lead, with Reo Miranda, freshman, following close behind as the pack of runners slowly started to spread out on the first loop.

The pack then vanished behind a large golf course and eager coaches and spectators waited patiently by the finish line.

In the distance, L.A. Trade Tech and Cerritos charged to the front with David Rosales, freshman, following closely, leading the EC men’s team.

“We came in ranked third and we were hoping to go after one of the two spots in front of us, and that just didn’t happen today,” Dean Lofgren, coach, said.

Although the Warriors trained heavily between races, the course at Griffith Park proved to be the biggest battle the Warriors faced in last Thursday’s race.

“The course was really long and boring,” Rosales said. “I was tired, my body just hit a wall at the 3.5 mile mark.”

The loop around the golf course seemed to be the hardest part of the race for several of the Warriors, including Nicole Sroczynski, freshman, who placed sixth for the women’s team.

“It was too hard for people to get out that far so it was really quiet out there, but our coach, Sean Sheil, did his best to meet us at the end of the race course,” Sroczynski said.

Unlike several of the other coaches, Lofgren and Sheil do their best to give words of encouragement and advice to their runners as the race is in progress.

“It sucked a lot that our coach wasn’t out there in the golf course because they are usually out there telling us to get in front of the guy in front of us and when to move forward,” Rosales said. “When you are alone, you have to figure out everything on your own, which can be a little difficult.”

Although the men’s team did not meet its high goals, the women stepped up their game and qualified for the Southern California Regional Championship.

“We’ve had a rough couple of practices. We don’t really peak at this point, we just run through it,” Sheil said.

With several of the women recovering from injuries, the women remain in the top 13 in the South Coast Conference Championship and will race against the top five schools in the state, giving them the competition they need to improve for state finals.

As the Southern California Regional Championship quickly approaches, the teams are preparing for the next few weeks with intense training, strength and conditioning routines, mile repeats and mile intervals as well as hill training.

“We were expected to do better, and I wish I could have gone faster,” Anique Villegas said. “I just have to train through it because it’s not always a physical battle, but a mental one also.”

Women’s water polo team wins, 20-6 Men’s soccer team hopes to make playoffs Karly Daquila Staff Writer

Calling for the ball from goalie Shanese Douglas, Alexis Solaro executed a precise counter attack, resulting in an assist to Camila Cardonatto who scored a goal for the Warriors against L.A. Trade Tech last Wednesday.

Preparing for the game, the Warriors had anticipated a strong team effort from the beginning to carry them through to victory.

“We always want to start off strong in the beginning when we go against L.A. Trade Tech and then execute on things we worked on in practice,” Douglas said.

The Warriors won 20-6, by practicing and preparing for a tough game against L.A. Trade Tech.

“The Warriors divided its starting line up to give everyone playing time,” Corey Stanbury, coach, said.

Though it seemed an easy game overall for the Warriors, the victory was not won without a struggle or two.

“I went up for the block, the ball hits my hands and as I’m

falling backwards the ball lands right behind me,” Douglas said.

“I turn around to flick it out and I flick it right into the net.

The good thing was we were up by a lot because that would have been a game changer and not in a positive way,” she added.

Stanbury said that the final goal of the game was scored by Cardonatto and also tied Ariel

“It’s really exciting to have this friendly competition between us.”

—Ariel Carrillo utility position Carrillo’s single season record for assists.

Stanbury said this was an accomplishment for Carrillo in the game against L.A. Trade Tech who rounded out her collection of assists to tie the school single season record at 32.

Alexis Solaro followed closely behind Carrillo with 25 assists for the season.

“It’s really exciting to have this friendly competition between us,” Carrillo said.

“We knew going into the L.A. Trade Tech game that we would need to run our plays so we could get prepared for our tough games ahead at the championships,” Douglas said.

Stanbury said that the Warriors will be prepared for the challenging games and competitions that lie ahead.

“For SCC Championships we will definitely be practicing hard and working on plays that we know if executed correctly will win,” Douglas said.

“The key thing for us going into the first game against Mt. SAC will be to stop them with our defense and to really execute our offense early,” Douglas added.

The Warriors are the No. 5 seed and will be participating in the South Coast Conference Championships against the No. 4 seed Mt. San Antonio College at Cerritos College today.

“Our whole plan starts with great practices this week and then just take it one game at a time,” Douglas said.

Zachary Weber

Co-Opinion Editor

Down, 1-0, in the second half and with the game hanging in the balance, the Warriors confidence was demolished as Cerritos capitalized on a tactical error.

A miscommunication between the center midfielder and the goalkeeper deflated the Warriors’ chances of getting back into the game.

“It took the wind out of our sail and killed our momentum,” Shaun Nagano, midfielder, said.

“Nolan called for a header from our center midfielder and the forward for Cerritos read the play well,” Nagano said. “He came out of no where, intercepted the pass and capitalized on our mistake.”

Nolan Dean, goalkeeper, did everything he could to try and keep the ball from going through the net.

“I tried to grab him (the defender) hoping to get a penalty kick instead of giving up the goal,” Dean said.

The Warriors went on to lose the game, 2-0 to a tough Cerritos team that was determined not to

have a loss to EC a second time.

“They extracted some revenge from the previous loss,” coach John Britton said.

“Cerritos was coming off of a four-game losing streak. We could tell they wanted it more,” Nagano said. “We were lacking energy and we weren’t hungry enough.”

The Warriors started out flat and surrendered the first goal of the game in the 20-minute mark.

The Warriors knew they were in for a battle.

“We knew it would be hard playing them (Cerritos) they are good at home and we didn’t come out with the passion,” Dean said.

“We started out slow,” Danny Moura, defender, said. “We didn’t play our hardest.”

“I think we weren’t really connecting, it was a huge field. It was hard to connect passes,” Dean said.

After coming off a big win against the defending state champions, Ever Morotoya, assistant coach, said he believes the team was too confident.

“We came out a little flat footed when the game started. We were a little over confident,” Morotoya

said.

Fatigue started to set in.

“Our defense played solid.

The midfielders were a bit tired because of the effort they put in against Mt. SAC,” Britton said.

“It was hot and dry there (at Cerritos) we were kind of going through the motions,” Dean said.

Towards the end of the game, the Warriors made some substitutions and every team member got a chance to play.

“We made a few substitutions to try some players some playing time,” Morotoya said.

One of the reserves wanted to help his team.

“I just wanted to get out there and help my teammates get the victory,” Harold Morse, forward, said.

The Warriors remain confident and hopeful to make the playoffs.

Their next game is tomorrow against L.A. Harbor College.

“We have to keep our heads up, play together and work hard,” Morse said.

“Our main goal is to make the playoffs, hopefully we can win some of those games,” Morotoya said.

Men’s water polo team secures a spot to compete at the South Coast Conference Championship Karly Daquila Staff Writer

Putting up a fight from the beginning against L.A. Trade Tech, the competition last Wednesday was a brutal battle from the first period.

“L.A. Trade Tech was counter attacking us multiple times throughout the beginning of the game,” Tanner Castro, goalie, said. “At that point, I was getting kind of nervous and just knew that we had to pump up our plays.”

Coach Corey Stanbury said that it took the Warriors a few minutes to get on board, but they finished the first quarter up by one point.

“El Camino worked really hard in the

second, but L.A. Trade Tech stayed in the game with a half dozen extra man-power plays that they capitalized on every attempt,” Stanbury added.

Castro saved four shots from L.A. Trade Tech. Though a small number, each save was at a crucial moment in the game giving the Warriors the lead.

“A one-on-no-one defense is like death to the goalie, when you save one of those it gets your team pumped up and it gets your team ready to throw it back in their face,” Castro said.

During halftime, the Warriors led the game only to have L.A. Trade Tech steal the lead in the third quarter.

“We lost our momentum halfway through, which was when L.A. Trade

Tech took it and we couldn’t connect on a couple plays,” Skyler Ulrich, utility, said.

In the last quarter, EC controlled the

“There was a lot of pressure, but we work better under pressure.”

—Adam Rudow utility position

game, Adam Rudow, utility position, scored two of his three goals.

The Warriors defense also performed

well in the fourth quarter.

“There was a lot of pressure but we work better under pressure, it felt good to get those goals in because that was when we really needed it the most,” Rudow said.

“The first time we beat them we were really pressing the counter attack, which is what we weren’t doing in the first three quarters of this game,” Rudow added.

“We really cleaned up our plays in the final quarter.”

Coach Stanbury said that he felt that the relentless Warrior counter attack finally wore down L.A. Trade Tech.

The Warriors outscored L.A. Trade Tech, 5-2, in the final quarter to secure the win and fourth place seed into the

next Conference Championships.

“Going into the championships, we are going to focus on what we did during the last two games, counter attacks and setting up to get our half court going and get our speed up,” Ulrich added.

The Warriors won 14-12.

“In the upcoming final games, if we can utilize our swimming ability to wing out and get ready for that counter attack pass,” Castro said.

“If I’m able to get that pass out there we can really rush their defense and mess them up.”

The Warriors will be participating in the South Coast Conference Championships Friday and Saturday at Rio Hondo College.

SPORTS

8 El Camino College Union

November 1, 2012

Warriors excited for Saturday’s last game Emerson Keenan and Sam Tedla Staff Writers

Shorthanded and trying to hold a slight lead, the Warriors gave up a 38yard touchdown pass from Citrus College quarterback Bernard Pointer with 10:55 left in the fourth quarter Saturday in a loss, 32-18.

The Warriors had to use backup quarterback Nicholas King due to a pinched nerve shoulder injury that starting quarterback Jesse Scroggins sustained on a touchdown throw last week to Luckner Brady.

“I don’t think that having Jesse or Nick as a quarterback was the reason why we lost,” Ivan McLennan, linebacker, said. “I think losing Pierce Slaughter and Dante Livingston, our left tackle and our right tackle, has had the biggest impact of them all. Those two guys are division one athletes.”

King hasn’t had as much experience as Scroggins and it was evident by the types of incompletions and decisions he made against Citrus College.

“Nick is a lot younger,” Royshaun Lewis, defensive back, said. “As a freshman, he hasn’t dealt with the type of pressure that Jesse has dealt with, so in the heat of the moment he doesn’t react with the ball fast enough.”

King finished the game with 33 yards on three of 18 pass attempts. He completed a 10-play, 77-yard drive with a 5-yard touchdown pass to Brady that gave the Warriors its first lead of the game.

“Nick had a pretty good week of prac-

tice,” Lewis said. “I think it was just more of the receivers getting adjusted to Nick’s playing style.”

The Warriors couldn’t get it going in the passing attack, so they did it on the ground, with 215 rushing yards, led by Johmel Charles with 10 carries for 80 yards and Eric Capacchione with four carries for 76 yards, including a sensational 55-yard run that sent the Warrior faithful into a frenzy.

The Warriors defense gave up 319 passing yards to Citrus, but was able to create some pressure with four tackles for a loss, a sack and an interception by Lewis.

“Being the only sophomore in the secondary hurt us in defending their passing game,” Lewis said. “So because of injuries, we have a lot of young inexperienced players who were nervous and they weren’t able to mentally process their assignments.”

The Warriors will look to avenge a disappointing season with an upset win against the undefeated No. 1 team in the nation Saturday at home against Mt. San Antonio College.

“Football’s, football. You know I never get down on the kids, as long as they play as hard as they can, which they have the whole season,” John Featherstone, coach, said.

Featherstone said that at least 20 injuries this season have definitely made it hard to get more wins.

“This is our bowl game,” McLennan said. “This is our national championship.

This is David versus Goliath. This is the last game at Murdock, so excited already.”

Philip Prins/ Union Johmel Charles, fullback for the Warriors, takes Citrus College defensive-back Dylan Kegans for a ride midway through the third quarter of the game Saturday. The Warriors lost, 32-18. This Saturday, the team plays its last game at Murdock Stadium.

Women’s soccer team places fourth in South Coast Conference Championship Angela Songco Staff Writer

It was the longest 90 minutes the Warriors had ever played in the conference.

With players missing from the team’s regular starting lineup and almost no available substitutes, the Warriors lost to the Cerritos College Falcons, 4-0, last Friday.

“We kept fighting for the entire 90 minutes,” Britton said. “We were not strong as normal. We were missing four strong starters

but we did not quit.”

Britton said that despite the loss, the Warriors played better than the first time the team played against Cerritos.

“We were not absolutely happy with the performance, but we had improved compared to the first game we had earlier in the season where Cerritos defeated us heavily with a win, 7-1,” Britton said.

Jaymie Baquero, assistant coach, said that some players were injured during their game against Mt. San Antonio College and dur-

ing their practice.

“It is an unfortunate thing, but we fought and worked hard as we could,” Baquero said.

“Cerritos is No. 1 in the Southern California region and with how we played you can see major improvement; we played a lot better than the first time we fought against them,” Baquero added.

Natalie Medina, defender, said that the injuries made the game harder for the team as it made the players play the duration of the game.

“It was just hard for us to score even though we tried not to put our heads down,” Medina said.

“We did not play a bad game.

Most of our players were hurt, so there was only so much that we can do.”

“We had a struggle today, but Cerritos had more substitutes than we had, so we are kind of tired due to injuries,” Medina added.

It was Medina’s first game after coming back from an injury.

Alyssa Heely, goalkeeper, said that the Warriors had four shots,

three shots on goal and five saves.

“We had some opportunities.

Unfortunately we weren’t able to kick them in the back of the net,” Heely said. “They (Cerritos) got some good goals but we are pretty even with them in terms of aggressiveness.”

Cerritos had 21 shots, 11 shots on goal, four assists and four saves.

“We played tough for the first half with 2-0 down but we played quite well,” Britton said.

“In the second half we gave ev-

erything we had and gave up two more goals, unfortunately we lost, 4-0,” Britton added.

Moreover, Baquero said that despite the loss, the Warriors with 5-9-2, 4-5-1 is fourth place in the South Coast Conference game with Cerritos in the first place, Mt. SAC in the second, and Pasadena in the third.

“We lost to a better team,” Britton said.

“But it was good to see the players give their 100 percent for the whole 90 minutes.”