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October 31, 2013
Torrance, California
Football player arrested on campus Jessica Martinez News Editor
Matthew Simon Sports Editor
After being arrested on campus for possession of firearms at a public institution Oct. 10, former EC football player Taj Mathis was removed from the team roster Friday. Mathis, who played defensive back for the Warriors, was arrested on campus after a loaded semiautomatic handgun and a revolver were found in the trunk of his car, EC Police Chief Michael Trevis said. The car is registered under the former 20-year-
old’s name and at the time of arrest, three other EC students were in the car, Trevis said. The four students were in the vehicle with smoky windows in the lower level of Lot F. An officer observed marijuana on the car console and upon doing a search, the firearms were discovered, according to the EC police log. Trevis said the two firearms located in the trunk of the vehicle were not registered and Mathis doesn’t have a gun license. Trevis added a bag was also found in the car with bullets and shells that did not fit the two guns. The Office of Community Relations has declined to comment after several requests and has told others
not to comment on the story. “One individual was charged with California Penal Code 626.9(b) Possession of firearms at a public institution,” Trevis said in an email. Trevis later confirmed Mathis was the individual who was charged. The other three students are likely facing disciplinary action from the college but face no criminal charges at this time, Trevis added. Mathis currently faces only the one charge but the district attorney’s office may file more, Trevis said. According to administrative procedure 5520, an immediate suspension will be enforced when a student has “possession or use of any weapon, firearms,
or explosives.” Rebecca Cobb, director of student development, said that students who have been immediately suspended have no student standing with the college while they go through due process. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department database, Mathis’ bail was set at $35,000 and he bonded out the same day he was arrested, Oct. 10. Rory Natividad, dean of health sciences and athletics, said this type of conduct is “against our mission, our values, and everything we stand for.”
Getting a kick out of life EC soccer and badminton coach John Britton continues his passion after losing leg
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Nadia Basich Staff Writer
othing and no one can stop Superman. The same goes for amputee coach John Britton. Britton does not have super powers but he does have strength, positivity, and a few jokes under his Scottish skin. Britton is the men’s and women’s soccer coach and is also the badminton coach. The professional Scottish badminton player and U.S. Hall of Famer is a 20-year diabetic and lost his right leg last December. “I wanted to buy a new car,” Britton said. “They told me it was going to cost an arm and a leg. I bartered the guy down so I gave him my leg.” Coupled with having diabetes and letting a blister on his foot get worse, Britton had to have his leg amputated. “I got a blister on my foot from cycling. I love cycling on The Strand. There was no circulation,” Britton said. “That didn’t heal so they cut off a toe and then they cut off all of the toes. And then after the toes is below the knee.” Certainly there was no challenge for this man of steel. Britton said his students have been great to him and they look after him far more than he needs. “Some people do it for attention, so I cut my leg off,” Britton said. Being one leg short does not bother Britton at all. He still
can run forward but is still trying to figure out how to run backwards. Britton is hoping to play in the Pan American Games for badminton once he gets his permanent “leg.” Britton’s men’s soccer players describe him as an overall positive and inspirational person. “He is the father figure of the team,” midfielder Andrew Cervantes said. “He always motivates us even through bad games.” Sophomore forward Shaun Nagano agreed with Cervantes’ response about Britton’s optimistic views. “John is a good guy,” Nagano said. “He never has a bad day, he’s always in a good mood. Even though he’s not involved like, as coaching us as much, he has a solid impact. For Cervantes, he thinks his coach’s injury has affected the team for the better. “It has motivated us to play for him. This might be one of his last few seasons,” Cervantes said. “It motivates me to try to play a better game.” Nagano thinks otherwise. “I still see him as having two legs, even though half of his leg is gone,” Nagano said. “I mean, he’s still the same guy. He hasn’t changed at all.” Britton’s jokes that his condition will never stop him from doing what he wants. “I could continue my career at EC as a soccer coach or I could get a job at Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland with my peg leg, but EC paid more,” Britton said.
Patricklee Hamilton/ Union
Board of Trustees votes to close Child Development Center Davion Walker Staff Writer
NEWS LINE
After nearly a two hour meeting, the Board of Trustees voted Oct. 21 to ultimately close the Child Development Center effective June 30, 2014. The CDC eluded closure last January by the board in favor of a method to strengthen enrollment. “We were very surprised and very, very disappointed,” Janet Young, associate professor of childhood education, said. “We were stunned and shocked and disappointed that all of the things that have been done and all of the improvements, the increased enrollments, and it didn’t count.” According to a report sent from Francisco Arce, vice president of academic affairs at EC, to Tom Fallo, president of EC, “the recommendation for closure of the Child Development Center is based on a history of low enrollment beginning with fiscal year
By Sam Tedla
2008/09.” “As the enrollment numbers declined, the district general fund transferred money to cover the annual budget deficit in the CDC. The amount of revenue allocated from the district general fund to cover the CDC budget deficit has steadily increased since the 2008/09 fiscal year. For fiscal year 2013/14, the district general fund is subsidizing the CDC budget deficit by $257,750,” according to the report. The members of the CDC are not disputing that the center had been operating at a deficit for many years. However, they believe they should have been allowed to continue because of the progress made under the center’s new direction. “We understand that we’re in a fiscal crisis and that numbers were terrible; from a strictly number standpoint, we’re not disputing that at all,” Young said. “We were told by Dr. Arce that when they came away from that board meeting, it wasn’t to give us a
year to try to turn the center around, it was a year to close the center down.” The center has been operating under new direction by the interim director, Jennifer Montgomery, since July 1 and since has shown improvement in enrollment. “We heard that our director was to get in there to see what she can do and bring them back a report in November and we will reassess,” Young said. According to a recovery report made by Montgomery, the enrollment for the center has increased from 14 students to 58 students in three months. However, the Board of Trustees made their decision based on the ongoing problems. “She’s [Montgomery] doing a great job, but she just started and this issue has been going on since January,” Ken Brown, vice president of the Board of Trustees, said. “There’s no doubt that policies have been made. Unfortunately, it has not translated in
more clients and more money.” Those with kids who attend the center will soon have to search for a new location. “Parents don’t want to enroll their child in a place that will being closing in a couple of months so they’ll limp along until they can close,” Christina Gold, history professor and academic senate president, said. According to the recovery report, 41 percent of children enrolled in the center are children of students or staff members. With the closing of the CDC, childhood education majors will have to find other programs that they can observe children and organize their studies. “Our childhood education students deserve to conduct their observation and their assignments and their student teaching with real children in a model program at a site at our school,” Young said. “They’re not going to have that opportunity any longer. We don’t know where we’re going to send our students.”
Student Improvement Workshop
Planetarium Show
Preventing Failure Workshop
Financial Aid Online Application Workshop
Nursing Info Session
Jan Schaeffer will be hosting a workshop today about self-awareness at 1:05 p.m. in the Decathlon Room, located above the Bookstore. If you want to attend, sign up at the front desk in the SRC. For more information, call 310660-3295.
Professors Shimonee Kadakia and Susan Stolovy will have a fulldome feature film. The show will be on Saturday with back-to-back showings at 3 and 4 p.m. For more information, call 310-660-3373.
Sue Oda Omori will be hosting a workshop that will help prevent outside factors from deterring someone to accomplish their goals or aspirations. The workshop will be Monday at 1 p.m. in SSC 207. For more information, call 310660-6936.
The financial aid office will give general financial aid information and help students fill out their FAFSA forms. The workshop will be on Tuesday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in SSC 204-G. For more information, call 310-660-3493.
Students who are ready to apply to the nursing program can attend this information session. The workshop will be on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Distance Educatio Center. For more information, call 310-660-3493.
news
2 El Camino College Union POLICE BEAT By Chris Guzman
Subject cited for being drunk in public Oct. 25, 12:55 a.m.—Officers were conducting a patrol and found a male subject laying on the ground unconscious with his bike between his legs. When the subject woke up, he told officers he was on his way home but forgot where he lived. The suspect smelled of alcohol and appeared to be intoxicated. He was issued a citation for being drunk in public and was booked at Torrance PD.
iPhone taken out of student’s hand Oct. 21, 10:38 a.m.—Officers responded to the station regarding a theft report. A female student stated that she was standing on the sidewalk by the Chemistry Building when a unknown male subject approached her from behind and took her iPhone. The suspect ran down Manhattan Beach Boulevard and grabbed a bike that was on the grass.
Four male non-students, including minor, caught drunk Oct. 19, 11:30 p.m.—Officers observed a vehicle with no headlights on the corner of Crenshaw Boulevard and 164th Street. After conducting a traffic stop, the police found that the four male nonstudents had been drinking heavily. A sobriety test was given and the driver exceeded the drinking limit. He was arrested and booked for being drunk in public. There was a minor in the car who was also drunk. The driver was cited for giving alcohol to a minor and was booked at Torrance PD.
October 31, 2013
Historic Board of Trustee election A Latino will be elected to serve on the five-member board for the first time in the college’s history Chris Guzman Staff Writer
For the first time in El Camino College history, a Latino will be elected to serve on the five-member Board of Trustees in the Nov. 5 election. “Vying for the Area 5 seat are Torrance City Councilman Cliff Numark, university technology administrator G. Rick Marshall and business owner Aria Shafiee. Competing to represent Area 2 are Hawthorne school board member John Vargas and Hawthorne City Councilman Nilo Michelin,” according to a Daily Breeze article. Area two consists of Lennox and Hawthorne and area five consists of south Torrance and south Redondo Beach. Both candidates competing for the Lennox and Hawthorne area are Latino.
Marshall applies his idea of free market principles to his personal life because of his success in implementing this work ethic with students in the past. “We donated money and time, putting together this little company, teaching them how to manufacture and market their product,” Marshall said. “I loved watching my young entrepreneurs succeed. Free market capitalism, these kids got a taste of it, this is what it’s about to get ahead in America.” Passionate about his community and teaching, along with being a council member for the past ten years and being a high school teacher, has made Michelin aware of students’ needs, he said. “I served as a Hawthorne prosecutor for ten years and I have my teaching credentials,” Michelin added. “I serve on the Oversight Committee on the Foundation Board,
and I want to make sure local students get priority when they register for classes.” Michelin has plans to expand what EC can offer to incoming students. Numark has experience in being handson with business communities and balancing the budget as a legislative aide. This gives him the edge in transforming the young generation into entrepreneurs, he said. “I served as a business incubator. We set up a resource center for folks who want to start their own business,” Numark said. “It’s free advice for marketing professionals to grow in their business. It’s a private sector lead, it helps local business communities.” Being an administrator for many years, Vargas has become aware of the needs of students and their families. Voicing the concerns and best inter-
ests of the commnity is something Vargas strives to address in his first year as a trustee, he said. “The last four years I have served as a board member for the Hawthorne School Board. Every decision we made affected students,” Vargas said. “I always asked myself, ‘Is this decision in the best interests of our students?’ That has always been my priority.” Vargas said he continually considers students to be the most important factor when making decisions, and will continue to do so as a trustee. “In my daily work at the middle school, I make decisions daily that affect students,” Vargas said. “I manage the school’s budget and make sure my teachers have the resources they need to provide quality instruction to all students.”
EC may not take hit if marijuana is legalized Rigo Bonilla
Managing Editor
Marijuana could be legalized by the 2014 fall semester. Although it would take 50,000 signatures and a majority vote, polls say public opinion supporting legalization is at a record high. According to a survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, 18-25 year olds smoked marijuana more than any other age group in 2012. The question is, how would marijuana legalization affect EC, whose population is also predominantly in the 18-25 range? North Seattle Community College has experienced the situation firsthand due to the legalization in Washington (along with Colorado). The changes they have seen have been “none.” “Nothing’s changed,” Alex Maldonado, health security officer at NSCC, said. “It’s been uneventful. There was about one complaint of a student being high in the past year.” Another question arising from the issue is the boundaries on the substance. Would it be acceptable to smoke any-
where anytime if it’s legalized? Maldonado said it does have its limits in Washington. “Marijuana is treated the same as alcohol. People can use it in their houses, just not in the streets.” The before and after at NSCC has been the same. Here at EC, marijuana infractions come up at about the same rate as any other crimes, EC Police Sergeant Dal Toruno said. “Marijuana is not more of a problem on campus right now than any other issue,” Toruno said. “We’ll get a disturbance call, a burglary, a theft; it’s just part of the things we come across.” “What happens is, somebody smells it, they call us and we investigate,” Toruno added. “If somebody says, ‘Hey, we smelled it by the Art Building, by the stairwell,’ we investigate. If we find something, we deal with it when we find it.” Toruno said the EC police department hasn’t yet considered what changes would take place if marijuana is legalized, but that they will follow the laws as they come. The current consequences for being caught with pot are determined by the police and the EC administration. “The common consequence for being caught with marijuana is receiving a citation for possession less than an ounce,” Toruno said. “If it happens on campus, students
will be sent to the director of student development.” “Students are not supposed to be smoking on campus,” Toruno said. “It’s a violation of the student conduct, which includes drinking, fighting and other things.” Some students already agree that marijuana doesn’t have a place on a college campus, even if it’s legalized. “I think it should be legal, I just don’t think it should be allowed on campus because we can’t drink on campus,” Sergio Ibarra, 20, theatre major, said. “It will inhibit people. Especially if we’re working in groups, I don’t want to be working with a bunch of potheads. I think it should be treated as a legal drug like alcohol; you can’t be driving when you’re drunk. The same precautions should be taken about weed.” Other students find it to be as trivial as a cigarette. “I see a bunch of people smoking cigarettes on campus,” Vanessa Rodriguez, 19, undecided major, said. “It’s pretty much the same thing in my eyes.” Editor’s note: This is the second of a three-part series that will go in depth about the legzaliation of marijuana.
arts
October 31, 2013
El Camino College Union 3
On the scene Erin Logan
Theatre Still Shocking “As startling as it was when it was first performed, Luigi Pirandello’s unique story ‘Six Characters in Search of an Author’ begins with realism but quickly becomes an assault on the nature of theatre itself.” With John DeMita directing, this play will be performed on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 1, 2, 8, 9 in Marsee Auditorium at 8 p.m. and again on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 3 p.m. No children under the age of 5 will be permitted. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at www. elcamino.edu/commadv/centerforarts/ecctheatre.html.
Film Hell’s Canyon The concluding movie of EC’s travel series will be shown on Nov. 4 at 3 and 7:30 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. The film, “Not A Day Goes By: ‘Remembering Hell’s Canyon’” is narrated by Patricia Keith. It documents an enduring love for Hell’s Canyon and interviews the fascinating men and women who lived on its isolated ranches between the 1920s and the 1980s. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased by calling 1-800-832ARTS.
Dance Fall dance concert Daniel Berney, Pamela Santelman, and Lisa Hoefner Adamis are directing EC’s annual fall dance concert this semester. The concert will be on Nov. 21 at 1 p.m., Nov. 22 and 23 at 8 p.m., and Nov. 24 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15. Those interested can contact Marsee Auditorium’s box office.
Eric Hsieh/ Union
A night spent with “Phantasms”
EC’s Two-Dimensional Design classes showcased expressive line artwork at “Phantasms” on Oct. 18 in Marsee Auditorium. Shown above, a piece by Sean Webb.
Students and teacher explore the shadowy realm of the supernatural.
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Chris Guzman Staff Writer
ttendees of “Phantasms” at Marsee Auditorium on Oct. 18 got a glimpse of “expressive line” artwork created by EC art students as well as a history lesson from faculty member Jason Davidson on the 19th century birth of Medium-ism. “The [students’] assignment is to use only lines, and ask: What does ‘paranormal’ mean?” Andrea Micallef, professor of graphic design, said. “How can we communicate by how we’re drawing as
opposed to what we’re drawing.” Micallef elaborated, emphasizing the role of the audience in creating a meaningful artistic experience. “That’s what’s so interesting about these line drawings, it speaks to us. It causes the viewer to be active and bring their own experiences to it,” she said. “It requires the perceiver to understand what their seeing, it invokes a response in us, and the viewer fills in the blanks, to figure out what the composition is about.” A piece by Maria Covarrabias, 26, graphic design major, stood displayed on a case upon entering the auditorium. Her illustration
stood out among other, more colorful pieces and featured a haunted tree with a ghostly swing tied to the end of one the branches. “The tree I got from ‘The Conjuring,’ I added the swing after, and made it still rather than having it moving,” Covarrabias said. “It’s made to look more ghostly.” “I wanted it to look creepy. Expressive line is all about movement, by movement you can see all the lines in the tree,” she added. Her piece was well-received by attendees and went on to receive the most audience votes. “We looked around and we liked this one the best,” Tina Abel, 35, audience member, said. “The
tree, in my opinon, is the scariest one with the evil branches like it’s calling someone over to play on the swing.” As “Phantasms” approached its second hour, Jason Davidson, professor of communication studies, guided his audience through major events of the Medium movement. “We have to be a little careful when we talk about Spirtualism. It is a religion that you would follow like Islam, Judaism and Christianity,” he said. “There are still spirtual churches today. I’m not bashing anyone’s religion. Spirit-ism is the belief that we can talk to the dead, and over the years people
have confused the two.” Davidson added that “Phantasms” only concerned itself with figures of fraud in the Spiritualist movement. “I’m not going to say we can’t communicate with the dead,” he said, “but I am going to talk about people who were fake and exploited the situation of people grieving over lost loved ones.” The end goal of “Phantasms,” Davidson claimed, was to see Spiritualism in the scope and context of history. “The idea is to see where this movement came from, why did it happen and how it has impacted us today,” he said.
Movie Review
Music 2013 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist
‘The Counselor’ has advice for Hollywood’s thrillers
Vadym Kholodenko, a pianist who has won first prize at both the International Schubert Competition in Dortmund in 2012, and the Sendai International Music Competition in 2010, will be performing at EC on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. Tickets are $26 and can be purchased by calling 1-800-832-ARTS.
EC Concert Band Directed by professor Dane Teter, EC’s concert band will perform assorted works by composers ranging from Holsinger and Lithgow to Mancini and Edmondson. The concert will take place Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. in Marsee Auditorium. Tickets are $10 and available online from http://www. elcamino.edu/commadv/centerforarts/eccpg.html
Modern masterworks Krisiti Lobitz on piano and Susan Greenburg on flute will be performing in Marsee Auditorium on Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. The program will feature masterworks from J.S. Bach, Beethoven, and Poulenc. Tickets are $15.
ing for high-octane car chases and gunfights as well. Staff Writer In one scene, armed men driving a fleet of SUV’s hunt the Featuring terrific actors, a Counselor’s friend through the great screenplay, and excellent desert. The suspenseful chase culdirecting, “The Counselor” deliv- minates in the outnumbered guners everything a star-studded cast man, wielding M16 rifles, shooting his way out of a kidnapping. could live up to. The film is not shy on depicting Among the film’s many stars are Michael Fassbender, who por- brutal violence and deserves its trays a modest, straight lawyer “R” rating from the MPAA. In yet another scene, Brad Pitt tied up in a deal with the Mexican Cartel, and Cameron Diaz, who walks, seemingly seconds away plays one of the film’s villainesses. from escaping a grisly fate, when Predictably, the deal goes someone chokes him with a garwrong and he’s in over his head rote so tight his head is almost severed. The when people movie is generous closest to him with blood and start disappear- “[Cormac McCarthy not even nearby ing. pedestrians are Director Rid- and Ridley Scott] spared from the ley Scott, also demonstrate the splattering. know for box brutal realism that The movie office hits like “Blade Runner” things don’t always never explores the motivations beand “Gladiator,” hind “the deal,” does something work out for the nor emphasizes entirely and best. ” what “the deal” uniquely differactual was. It ent from his prisimply serves as or films. In a departure from the tradi- a device to unveil the covert lifetional hero story, “The Counselor” styles of people involved in illegal is brutal to its protagonists and businesses and the consequences of what can go wrong in that line leaves its bad guys unpunished. The movie touches on many of work. Surprisingly, “The Counselor” philosophical points while giving the viewer a deeper, darker look at doesn’t feel the need to lean upon the lifestyles that accompany the nudity or sex like other films in its category. Instead, it garners apMexican Cartel. With superb writing by Cor- peal thorough the power of sugmac McCarthy and great direc- gestion and the result is far more tion from Scott, they demonstrate edgy. Thanks to the talented figthe brutal realism that things don’t ures behind its production, “The always work out for the best. A beautiful cast including Pe- Counselor” defies some of the stenelope Cruz and Brad Pitt add a reotypes inherent to Hollywood sexy touch. Shots of lavish cars, thrillers today. homes in the hills and cheetahs in the driver seats of Range Rovers give the movie an exotic mood. “The Counselor” feeds a cravChris Guzman
Tracy Kumono/ Union Jamee Palmer, 46, photography and studio art major, takes photos with her Nikon camera in Hermosa Beach.
The do-it-all photographer Trent Ledford
Staff Writer
When it comes to the brilliant and creative Jamee Palmer, 46, photography and studio art major, with every flicker of her shutter, outstanding photographs are born. “Jamee, is a highly intelligent photographer. She is a matured student who demonstrates a great responsibility for her own education,” Darilyn Rowan, professor of photography, said. Other instructors who work with Palmer first-hand echo the sentiment about her talent and personability. “She’s very good with people. An outgoing, caring and responsible student,” Joyce Dallal, professor of fine arts said. “She’s a lot of fun to have in class, very enthusiastic with her work.” “She has a good eye for people and she’s good at making people feel comfortable,” Dallal added. Palmer first started as a hair dresser at the age of 16 and recorded her art though photos. “I been a hairdresser for 28
years and throughout that time I’ve taken photos of my work,” Palmer said. More recently, Palmer has expanded the subject of her photos. She published a photography book “The Colors Of Flowers,” featuring many of her still shots.
“I like seeing my work in print,” Palmer said. “I like to garden and take pictures of the flowers that I grew.” Palmer acknowledges that going to school at an older age can be a struggle but she still maintains a 4.0 GPA while working and taking care of her two children. “I am going to college as a nontraditional student. I have two children, 12 and 13. It’s hard being a parent and going to college,” Palmer said, “but I received two $1,000 scholarships.” When Palmer isn’t working on
her photos or schoolwork, she’s working at the digital print center, teaching students about the process of producing prints, or helping book guest speakers for her classes. “Jamee has helped bring guest speakers to campus and she helps run the print center on the second floor of the humanities art building,” Rowan said. Palmer also works to bring art and photography to victims of domestic violence with the non-profit organization, A Window Between Worlds. “I hope to use my photography and art as a healing tool for people who experience domestic violence,” Palmer said. For all that know her, Palmer’s imaginable future is a brilliant one. “It’s been an honor to be one of Jamee’s teachers. She learns quickly and works independently, which is also a very strong part of the student learning community,” Rowan said. “I consider myself fortunate to have been one of her teachers.”
EDITORIAL
4 El Camino College Union
October 31, 2013
Our comment on “No Comment” Feeling safe on campus is tough when the administration won’t talk about the very real, very concerning crimes that happen here. Three weeks ago, a football player was arrested on campus for possession of firearms at a public institution. He had a loaded semiautomatic handgun and a revolver in the trunk of his car. As soon as the Union heard about it, we went out to gather information. One editor tried to reach out to those involved and another tried to talk to anyone at the police station that knew something about it. Both editors were met with responses of “I’m not commenting on this” and “I can’t tell you that.” How can our campus be as safe as possible when those in charge won’t talk? Days later, the same editors continued to talk to people. Many in the administration were called and we received few responses. Those we did receive were small pieces of a much bigger puzzle. Most of our questions weren’t getting answered. Still, weeks after the fact, very few people will address the fact that someone brought a loaded firearm onto campus. Now more than ever, there’s a heightened sensitivity to gun violence. Mass school shootings in
never happen to them. But it happened at our college three weeks ago and those in charge won’t even release a single comment about it. Parents from all over send their kids to El Camino College. Students, faculty, staff, and those in the community need to be aware this stuff happens. The Union covers the campus. The L.A. Times doesn’t and neither does the Daily Breeze, at least not in the way we do. Students are looking to us to report the news, which is a hard thing to do when people won’t talk to us. We aim to report fairly and accurately and have given many people the opportunity to make a comment on this story. When they don’t, it appears as if there’s something to hide, something to sweep under the rug, and something to avoid talking about.
The Issue • EC’s refusal to discuss an important issue that could affect the whole campus
Our Stand • Students have a right to information about potential safety hazards, and restricting that information breeds misstrust and suspicion among the student body.
the past year include ones at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Lone Star College, and Santa Monica College. In the past two weeks alone, gun violence has made headlines more than usual. On Oct. 21, a 12-year-old shot three others before turning his handgun on himself at a middle school in Sparks, Nevada. On Oct. 22, a 13-year-old was shot and killed in Santa Rosa because a cop falsely believed a fake rifle was a real one. On Oct. 23, two students were transported to hospitals from a Chino elementary school after a
See related article on Page 1
Illustration by Eugene Chang child pulled the trigger on a rifle that was mounted on a police officer’s motorcycle. That same day, an 11-year-old in Vancouver was
arrested after he took ammunition, knives, and a handgun to his school. Gun violence happens. And the
way our college is handling this situation is pretending it doesn’t. At least not on our campus. Many want to believe it could
Like taking daycare from a baby There’s a pretty common plot thread in sports movies for kids; a group of rag tag players face almost impossible odds, but through hard work and teamwork, manage to finally overcome. It’s been used in “The Mighty Ducks”, “The Sandlot”, and countless others. Now imagine that, in the last few minutes of the movie, the referee approaches the team and says “Nice job, but you’ve been dis-
qualified, so it doesn’t count.” That’s about how the decision to close down the Child Development Center feels. After less than work with a brand new Interim Director, the CDC managed to make serious progress, quadrupling it’s enrollment numbers. This is despite multiple sources, including former Student Trustee Jasmine Hormani, all having said that it’s status would be reassessed
after a year last March. While reassessed isn’t quite the same thing as saved, the implication was that it was possible to keep the CDC open if they showed improvement. It makes the “reassessment” reek of a cheap, political trick to keep the CDC’s supporters quiet without actually making any real concessions, since it wouldn’t have been possible to close it immediately anyways.
Unfortunately, this isn’t just a movie, and the closing of the CDC will have serious consequences for very real people, not characters. Not only do the students and faculty who actually depend on the CDC to watch their children while they’re busy on campus suffer, but the students majoring in childhood education will now miss out on the opportunity for a rich learning experience that
would have gone a long way toward preparing them for the real world. Education in California is in a precarious financial state right now, and it’s inevitable that the school will have to make some hard decisions. However, cutting classes and programs that provide real world experience to students isn’t the answer. After all, Gov. Brown has made it his goal
that community colleges provide more opportunities for vocational training, in order to quickly create more jobs. How can we meet that goal if we keep crippling those very programs?
CAMPUS INSIGHT
COMMENTARY
Trying not to fail at fall
Avoiding the college rat race Rigo Bonilla Managing Editor
Thomas Schmit Editor-in-Chief
For as long as I can remember, fall has been the bane of my education. My birthday was last Saturday, and today is Halloween. Following soon after will be Thanksgiving, and then finally Christmas. In the face of all these breaks, celebrations, and the slumberinducing weather, it becomes awfully hard to concentrate at school around now. I’ve worked my butt off, I’m tired, and there’s just so many awesome things to look forward to and plan for. Of course, I’m not the only one who struggles with the competing urges to party and hibernate, but after far, far too many years of A’s in spring and C’s in fall, I’ve decided that I have to make a change. With that in mind, I’ve decided on a series of goals to try to and keep myself on track for the final five weeks of the semester. For those of you who also suffer from a fall slump, maybe these can help
you too. My first, and probably toughest goal will be to maintain a regular sleep pattern. Yes, that does mean going to sleep at 11 p.m. tonight, while the rest of the world parties it up. However, one of the best ways to maintain focus is to adhere to a consistent routine, and that’s just not possible if I keep stumbling home some time around 4 a.m. The next goal is to eat three meals a day. While this second goal seems like common sense, it’s something that probably every college student (and definitely every journalist on a deadline) has ignored in favor of cramming in some extra study time. Unfortunately, starving yourself makes it much harder to concentrate, so even with the extra study time, you’re not really getting your money’s worth. Finally, this will be the year that I actually organize myself. Lists, binders, the whole works; I
U N NIO EL CAMINO COLLEGE
Vol. 67, No. 6 October 31, 2013
E -mail: eccunion@gmail.com Newsroom: (310) 660-3328 Advertising: (310) 660-3329
fully intend to be able to see my desk underneath my paperwork. In addition to saving space, knowing exactly when each assignment is due will help me to plan out my schedule and avoid procrastination. Hopefully these goals will provide a foundation for others to overcome their own fall slumps, and if you have any suggestions of your own, be sure to send them to us on the Union website!
The views expressed in Campus Insight are those of the authors. They do not represent the views or opinions 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 that articles may be edited for content and length
Editor-in-Chief ����������������������������������������������������������������������� Thomas Schmit Managing Editor ��������������������������������������������������������������������������Rigo Bonilla News Editor ���������������������������������������������������������������������������Jessica Martinez Opinion Editor �����������������������������������������������������������������������������Rigo Bonilla Features Editor ����������������������������������������������������������������������� Brian Camacho Arts Editor ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Eric Hsieh Sports Editor ���������������������������������������������������������������������������Matthew Simon Social Media Editor ���������������������������������������������������������������� Thomas Schmit Photo Editor ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������Amira Petrus Advertising Manager ����������������������������������������������������������Kimberly Brandes Adviser ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������Kate McLaughlin Photo Adviser...................................................................................Gary Kohatsu Technical Support ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� Don Treat
The college system is screwed up. There’s been a huge debate about healthcare and if it should be provided affordably to all U.S. citizens. Obamacare? Where’s Obama-learn? or Obamacation? How many times has the phrase “college wasn’t for me” been uttered? I bet it wasn’t the college part. Change the phrase to “$50,000 in debt just wasn’t for me.” That’s more accurate. Thank God there’s places like EC. If I went to college straight out of high school, that period in my life would have been twice the disaster it already was. Now, after switching my major, switching schools, taking a semester off and switching majors again, I finally know what I want to do. It took a while of trial and error to figure everything out. That’s not possible at a fouryear university. According to universityofcalifornia.edu, the average living cost per year for a UC student is about $30,000.
For that kind of money, there’s no way I would have switched majors and wasted a whole year of tuition. I would still be an English major learning about the Kardashian-esque drama of 18th century poets, and I would be hating my life. On second thought, I would have probably just dropped out. Not only would I have dropped out, but I would have missed out on the biggest lesson I’ve learned in life so far: maturity, although I admit I could learn some more. Who thought this stuff up? Let’s take a kid, fresh out of high school, who has no idea who they are yet, and strap them up tens of thousands of dollars in debt to start their life. Fly, young eagle. Spread your wings. My uncle, who was raised by a poor immigrant single mother, graduated from UCLA at a time when the UC system was dirt cheap and financial aid covered the rest. Today, he is a successful
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aerospace engineer. It’s so hard to imagine where he would be if he had to face the UC system of today. An older man was telling me the other day that the current generation lacks respect. I agree with him, but this generation isn’t being given the chance to educate themselves like the generations before. College isn’t a place to learn and mature anymore. College is a competition. It’s a place where young people subject themselves to being profited upon in hopes of one day graduating and profiting from the next kid coming up. What an ugly scene. Help us, Jesus. Help us, Obama. Kobe? Tom Cruise?
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El Camino College Union 5
October 31, 2013
UP FOR DEBATE
Should bikes be treated as automobiles?
Thomas Schmit Staff writer
Bicyclists want respect, but don’t follow the rules
Scratch doesn’t seem like an apt word to describe it. Roughly 8 inches long, the gash across the my driver side door faintly glitters with the bits of chrome paint embedded in it. Chrome paint that, until a few moments ago, covered the tips of a set of handle bars belonging to the vapid moron now blithely fleeing. I shout expletives that would make a sailor blush, but there’s not much I can do short of hopping in my car and chasing the idiot down. That was just a few weeks ago on campus. Unfortunately for me, there was no license plate on the bike that would let me report the biker. Even if there was, there’s no law requiring the biker to have any sort of liability insurance to cover the damage. Fortunately for the biker, I had just parked and gotten out of my car, because if the car had been in motion, there would have been nothing protecting him from the two tons of steel and plastic that would turned him into a greasy smear on the asphalt. It’s all well and good that more people are biking now. Saving the environment, great health benefits, low cost, we’ve all heard the arguments before. The problem is that bikers seem to act like they have all of the advantages of a car, but don’t want to face up to the realities and drawbacks of a bike, or even any vehicle on the street. The fact is that no amount of improved cardio or reduced emissions will save you when you tangle with a moving object easily 10 times your weight while riding on a 20 pound aluminum frame. It’s a common stereotype that people in college think they’re invulnerable, but almost every single person will be in an accident of some sort. Some may injure themselves. Some may only damage other people’s property, like the biker mentioned earlier. In any case, the toll such accidents can inflict can be reduced by demanding that bikes be treated more like cars, by requiring simple things like liability insurance, turning indicators, mirrors, and other safety features that are
standard for a car owner. These are all standard for motorcycle riders as well, but despite riding many of the same streets as motorcyclists, bikes are exempted from. After all, the streets are for everyone, so shouldn’t everyone be playing by the same set of rules?
Clipper’s head coach Doc Rivers made headlines last week after he asked the Staples Center if he could cover all Laker’s banners during Clipper home games this year. But covering up Laker banners in Los Angles is almost scarilegious. The tradition of the purple and gold is that of excellence and greatness, which is represented by its 9 player jerseys being retired, and 16 NBA championships (6 in Minneapolis, 11 in Los Angeles). The legacy of the Lakers should be upheld whenever someone comes to any sporting event or concert in Staples Center. It’s almost understandable that Rivers wants to create a home-court atmosphere when fans and opposing teams come to watch the Clippers at Staples. It’s like going to your girlfriend’s house and checking out her sister’s pictures and saying, “damn who’s that.” Seeing Laker banners would just expose the huge gap there once was between the in-city rivals. Clippers fans don’t want to be reminded of the nightmares of being in the lottery draft every year, while the Lakers were competing for championships. The Clippers are hoping they have turned a new leaf with the aquisition of Chris Paul, who coincidentally was originally traded to the Lakers, but in a mysterious and controversial move by the commisioner of
Any and all cyclists’ right to the road has been enshrined in law since 1968’s international law, in fact, under the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Under this agreement, 150 countries, including the United States, conferred the legal status of “vehicles” onto bicycles.
Illustration by Eugene Chang
No Manners for championship banners
Sam Tedla Staff writer
Biking is positive for everyone involved
the NBA, the trade was vetoed. Staples Center could never truly be the home of the Clippers. Sure, they can change the wallpaper on the inside with “selfies” of their players, but Clipper fans will have to walk by the four Lakers statues on their way into the building every time. Chick Hearn, Magic Johnson, Jerry West and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are permanent Laker fixtures while the Clippers have never had a player worthy of being immortalized with a statue. What’s next, putting red, white and blue snuggies on the statues? The Clippers moved to Los Angeles in 1984 from San Diego. The Lakers moved from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960. If the Clippers really want to create the best home-court enviroment they should have moved to another arena/stadium, or even better, move to another city. The Lakers and Clippers aren’t the only teams in the four major NorthernAmerican sports leagues to play in the same city, but they are the only ones to play in the same stadium. New York has two NFL teams (Giants, Jets), two NHL teams (Islanders, Rangers) and two MLB teams (Mets, Yankees). All of these teams play in different arenas. The bottom line: the Lakers where here first, and covering up the banners would be disrepectful to some the greatest players in NBA history. And after the Lakers proved all of the “experts” wrong and embarassed the Clippers on opening night, we all know whose town this really is. • Clippers fans and Lakers fans, what do you think? • Tweet me @ECCUnionSam • Listen to our weekly NBA podcast at eccunion.com under the podcast section.
Campus viewpoints Eric Hseih Staff writer
Cyclists are legally “vehicle operators.” If you looked at cities around America, however, you’d never guess it. Critics will point out that not all cyclists follow the rules of the road. Rightly, they should face punishment and be taken off the streets the same way motorists who don’t follow law are treated. If it’s too difficult to change societal attitudes towards bikes, the second-best option is to create more space between cars and bikes. Dedicated bike paths, clearlymarked bike lanes. Sadly, many governments don’t deem it a priority to support efforts to choose a healthier, more environmentallyfriendly mode of transportation. Thankfully, some legislators are slowly coming around. They’ve studied European models, and the amount of public funds, healthcare costs, and deaths they could be saving by promoting cycling has moved them to action. Chicago’s mayor has plans to add 500 miles of bike lanes, “establishing a bikeway within a half-mile of every Chicago resident,” according to his proposal. New York City has made similar efforts and its residents have responded. Between 2007 and 2012, bicycle commuting doubled in the Big Apple. It’s Southern California, so firmly in the grasp of the automobile industry and constrained by its car culture, that is slowly being left behind. If it confuses drivers why a cyclist would still go out onto the road, despite the risks, despite the lack of proper infrastructure, consider the following: studies almost universally show that it’s more dangerous not to bike than to bike. In a study published by the French newspaper, Le Monde, researchers found that deaths caused by regularly biking on cardominated roads were heavily outnumbered by deaths prevented because these cyclists had lower incidences of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.
The missing sixth sense Column
Voltaire once said, “Common sense make you believe absurdities can make is not so common.” He was right. you commit atrocities.” One’s interpretation is to take Whether it’s simply checking to see if you locked the door behind you, responsibility for your own actions. or hooking up with your best friend’s Blaming others isn’t sufficient for significant other. People tend to do justification, because you should know things that they themselves would better. If your excuse is that someone classify as idiotic, yet more so than ever made you, then you’re the idiot to begin these days, people exploit forgiveness with and should seriously consider some soul searching. rather than permission What exactly is — Grace Hopper just considered common rolled in her grave. sense, and are these If people would take notions national, just five minutes out of regional, or local? their day to reflect on Personally, common their actions, goals, and sense is as it’s commonly truest aspirations, the used. Regardless of its world could be a better caliber, as a citizen of place. A world full of this great nation, you motivated people, living should have the most for the greater good, common of common and filled with common sense. As a college sense — a tad bit of Angela Yim student, as educated wishful thinking I’m Union Columnist individuals, as well sure, but you get the rounded citizens, the picture here. Surely this idealistic lifestyle may be extent of your common sense should be farfetched for those that live in the “real broader and at least up to par with those world” and refuse consider themselves of your equal. But don’t take my word for it, get out a student of life, but luckily for us, EC is filled with students from every there and find out for yourselves. The ethnicity, demographic background, more you know, the less you’ll have to and socioeconomic status. We are our apologize for. And before you know own kind of world and can start from it, you’ll be the one asking why some within, EC Warriors can be the leading things aren’t as commonly known. examples. Next time you plan on doing something, consider the level of significance and take a second to think before taking action. Thinking • Please connect with me by email at before doing may not be in the hipster eccunionangela@gmail.com handbook, but it could be the start of a streak of luck for you. Do I really need • Follow me on Twitter @eccunionAng that fifth drink? Is this appropriate to wear to my job interview? Is it • Join the conversation online at absolutely necessary to bring firearm www.eccunion.com on campus property? Just take a second is all I’m saying. For all you know • The views expressed in this column the outcomes of one’s actions can are those of the author. They do not potentially be detrimental, not just to represent the views or opinions of you, but also to those around you. the Union, its staff, editorial board or Voltaire also said, “Those who can advisers.
By Trent Ledford Photos by Gilberto Castro
Tierra Nance, 23, radiological technology
“It’s safer for them to be in a safe area. I think the bikers should keep the sidewalk.”
Ivan Alcantar, 21, music
“Yes, because it’s often scary to see cars behind that are very close to you when you’re cycling.”
Denisha Ellis, 19, nursing
“Yes, they should get more respect because they have to get around too.”
Ramon Ortiz, 20, engineering
“Yes, they need to be shown more respect because it’s the same as any transportation which would lead to getting to places you need to be, and plus, bikers follow the same rules as any other vehicle on the road. In the DMV manual it says, bikes are considered vehicles of transportation.”
Erika Kissell, 18, nursing
“No, they should ride on the sidewalk. If you are driving and don’t see them, you might hit them.”
sports
6 El Camino College Union
October 31, 2013
Warriors’ win streak ended Brian Camacho Staff Writer
Trailing two sets to one and down 21-24 in the fourth set to Pasadena City College, the El Camino women’s volleyball team found themselves in a spot they are not used to being in. Trying desperately to keep their eightgame winning streak alive, the Warriors went up for the kill but the shot was blocked for the match point. The Warriors (13-4) came into the game ranked No. 9 in the state but were upset by the Lancers (88) Friday night at EC as they fell 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 23-25, 21-25) and saw their eight-game winning streak snapped. “We have been doing little things right and we just didn’t make plays that we’ve been making all year,” coach Le Valley Pattison said. “There’s a lot of freshman out there so it’s a great learning experience.” The Warriors are now 6-1 in the South Coast Conference and are in a three-way tie with Pasadena and Mt. San Antonio for first place. Errors and miscues ultimately led to the Warriors demise and they would frequently gain momentum only to see it slip away due to an untimely mistake. “We served a few too many balls out and let a few too many drop,” Pattison said. After dropping the first set 2523 the Warriors responded by taking the second set 25-23 to tie the score at one game a piece. In a crucial third set, the Warriors led 23-22 but could not put away the Lancers, giving up a late kill and having their last shot
John Fordiani / Union
Freshman outside hitter Laynie Thompson, freshman middle blocker Kimberly Haney block a hit attempt against the Lancers. The women’s volleyball team would go on to lose the match 3-1.
blocked for the loss. “It was a big eye-opener to let us know that we need to pick up our game fast,” sophomore setter SueKalena Tafao said. “This showed us that we need to come out of the gate strong and clean up
our mistakes.” Tafao had another huge game, racking up 18 kills and 12 digs. Tafao has become comfortable in her role as team leader and continues to set an example with her dominant play.
Freshman outside hitter Layne Thompson and middle blocker Kimberly Haney also had breakout games with 15 kills for Haney and 14 kills for Thompson. “I’ve become more of an evident hitter,” Thompson said.
“Someone who can really show up and get the balls down when needed.” Thompson and Haney both entered the year as freshman but have become key contributors due to their size and strength around
the net. “I’m just getting more comfortable with the setters and we’re connecting more,” Haney said. Next up, the Warriors head in into a critical conference match with Mt. San Antonio tomorrow.
sports
October 31, 2013
El Camino College Union 7
Nwabueze doubles up in 4-2 victory
W
Emmanuel Ramirez Staff Writer
ith the score tied 2-2 and the wind going against freshman forward Kyrian Nwabueze, he was able to chip a shot over the goalkeeper giving the Warriors the go-ahead goal in a 4-2 victory against Pasadena City College. “I was anticipating a cross from the right side,” Nwabueze said. “In my mind, I knew I had to get to that ball. Luckily, it was a great ball that all I needed to do was tap it in.” Nineteen minutes into the game the Warriors gave up a goal that gave the Lancers a 1-0 lead. Nwabueze tied the game giving the team hope. “I was able to perform well thanks to my teammates,” Nwabueze said. The team’s intensity carried into the second half as freshman midfielder Branddon Cando gave the Warriors the lead. “I was able to find an opening where the goalkeeper wouldn’t be able to reach the ball,” Cando said. The game was back and forth as Pasadena City College was able to tie the game 2-2.
Nwabueze came to the rescue and gave El Camino the lead late in the game crushing Pasadena’s hope to win. “I’m going to keep playing for my team and stay consistent to continue to play well,” Nwabueze said. Sophomore midfielder Angel Lomeli was able to put his team in a great position by giving his teammates great passes. “We simply didn’t score the goals to win now our players are getting on the ball more and finally finishing opportunity,” Lomeli said. The Warriors sealed the deal as sophomore midfielder Jose Monroy was able to score on a free kick with three minutes left in the game. After some sparce scoring the last few games the team was able to score more. “As usual we had an abundance of chances and scored four off the many chances we created,” coach John Britton. “I hope we can continue to do this for the remainder of the season we thoroughly deserved the victory.” The defense was solid throughout the whole just just a few unfortunate plays resulted in giving up two goals. “Our defense played a great game,” but we also have to give it up to our goalie who made a great safe ehich kept us in the lead,” freshman defender Carlos Lopez said. Charles Ryder / Union
Freshman forward Kyrian Nwabueze runs the ball down the field.
Warriors lose at SMC tourney
Running with purpose
Marquis Parker Sebastian Spencer
Staff Writer
In his hometown it wasn’t safe to go out at night by himself because of the inner-city chaos that went on. The tables have turned. Now freshman running back Raphael Lawson-Gayle causes chaos with his El Camino teammates every time they step on the football field. “I’ve always wanted to play football,” Lawson-Gayle said. “I was a bit sheltered as a kid. My mom never let me play growing up because she was afraid I would get hurt.” Lawson-Gayle didn’t start playing football until his freshman year at Mira Costa High School, but he had something to prove once he got on the field. After five games his sophomore year Lawson-Gayle was moved up from the junior varsity team to the varsity team. “I played basketball and soccer,” Lawson-Gayle said. “I played everything I could until high school where I had a football team. It was a nice area. I came out to one of their practices freshman year, ran a few routes and the coaches loved me so they contacted my mom and convinced her to let me play.” His bestfriend and teammate at Mira Costa Khalil McClain is someone that shared the high school spotlight with him every friday night. “He is pretty elusive,” McClain said. “He will add a little power if he needs to. His athletic ability is ridiculous.” McClain noted how his competitive fire drives him to play through injuries at times. “He is probably one of the most passionate ones out there,” McClain said. “The only thing he needs to improve on is taking care of his body, sometimes
The women’s water polo team (7-14), was defeated last Friday against the Santa Monica College Corsairs (7-1), in a tournament the Corsairs took place at SMC. Despite the score of the games the Warriors played a tough battle against Santa Monica, but the Corsairs goalie stepped up defensively, blocking nearly every shot attempted by the girls. “We took about 33 shots during the game, but unfortunately, we only scored once,” coach Corey Stanbury said. The Corsairs led offensively, scoring four goals in the first half of play, then added an additional three in the second half. “The scores of the game didn’t show how we usually play in most of our past matches,” freshman utility player Alexis Ivans said. “We made Santa Monica’s goalie look better than she actually is.” The women are now on a two game losing streak, with their last win against Los Angeles Trade Tech Community College (21-14). Ivans, Lauren Gottschalk, Evelyn Siquenza, Lynsey Alabab, and Carrissa Carnine all had multiple attempts at scoring goals, but Gottschalk was the only girl to get the ball through the net. “We need to communicate better during gameplay, and getting better shots down low,” Ivans said. “We basically got caught up in our own mistakes, which affected the entire team.” In the women’s next match, they are working to fix their simple errors both on the defensive and offensive end of play. “Are shots weren’t some of the best choices we made, and we took some inaccurate attempts,” freshman utility player Monica Bender said. The Warriors will look to right the ship when they compete in the conference championships Nov. 9.
Staff Writer
Robert B. Chernetsky / Union
Freshman running back Raphael Lawson-Gayle looks to be a big part of the Warriors’ ground game the last two games of the season.
his passion blinds him. He’ll get a sprained ankle and try to play on it.” Lawson-Gayle has everything in perspective and has a plan if football isn’t in his future. “I definitely thought I was going to get recruited to a division
one school but I’m having fun here I love my coaches here,” Lawson-Gayle said. “I know them real good and we have a great relationship, they help me with my life outside of football as well.” Lawson-Gayle made an impact right away the Warriors victory
last Saturday gaining 100 yards. “He has really deceptive speed,” coach John Featherstone said. “He’s a fearless football player. It’s hard to say no to a player that’s that good.” Even though Lawon-Gayle isn’t the biggest guy on the field
his presense is felt everytime he laces up his cleats. “One thing I want people to know about me is that, honestly I’m not the biggest person,” Lawson-Gayle said. “I don’t back down from no hit. I play fullspeed, all the time.”
Sports
8 El Camino College Union
October 31, 2013
Robert B. Chernetsky / Union
Warriors huddle around coach John Featherstone after they defeated College of the Desert 27-13 last Saturday. The game is the last that will be played in Murdock Stadium as a new stadium will be built in its place by 2019.
Saying goodbye with a win, 27-13 In final chapter, Warriors are triumphant in their final game in Murdock Stadium
I
Brian Camacho Staff Writer
t may not have been the prettiest win but the El Camino football team gladly accepted it as it defeated College of the Desert and ended its 64-year run at the historic Murdock Stadium. The Warriors (5-3) closed out their final game at Murdock Stadium with a 27-13 victory over the Roadrunners (0-7) last Saturday, in a game that was hard fought to the end. “It wasn’t pretty,” coach John Featherstone said. “I’m just happy we won. A win is a win. It was one of the sloppiest games we’ve had here in a long time. But this team has played a lot of games that have gone down to the fourth quarter and have run out of gas a bit.” Back in September, the Warriors won their home opener 5127 against Hancock and seemed poised to have a breakout year. But injuries have plagued the team since then and as a result they limping to the finish line. “I hope we can get some guys healthy fast, our biggest game of the year is coming up,” Featherstone said. The Warriors once again struggled through the air as they were outgained 309 to 68 yards
but made up for it with their reliable running game. Putting up 226 yards on the ground. Freshman running back Raphael Lawson-Gayle ran for 100 yards on only eight carries and scored one touchdown. Freshman running back Kendell Sparks ran for 79 yards on 10 carries and punched in a touchdown in the second quarter to give the Warriors a 13-6 lead with 5:58 remaining in the half. Freshman running back Martin Booker had two touchdowns, the second of which came in the third quarter with 35 seconds left giving the Warriors a 27-6 lead. “We’ve been able to run the ball all year,” Featherstone said. “We don’t want to put too much pressure on Shockey when we have a lot of guys who can run the ball.” The offense has leaned heavily on the running game ever since sophomore quarterback Cole Webb suffered a season-ending knee injury in order to take the load off of freshman quarterback Aaron Shockey, who went 6 for 13 while passing for 68 yards and a touchdown. This was the last football game that will ever be played at Murdock and although it wasn’t a pretty win the team pulled it out. “It doesn’t feel that great,” Lawson-Gayle said. “We didn’t play that well, but it is a win.”
Charles Ryder / Union
Freshman running back Kendall Sparks leaps to get past a defender during the Warriors final game in Murdock Stadium. See related story, Page 7.
Warriors Schedule Football:
Saturday Nov. 2 at Citrus College 6 p.m.
Men’s Soccer: Tomorrow vs Cerritos College 1 p.m.
Women’s Soccer:
Tomorrow vs Cerritos College 3 p.m.
Women’s Volleyball: Tomorrow at Mt. San Antonio 6 p.m.
women’s Water polo:
Nov. 9 at Conference Championships at Chaffey
Cross Country:
Tomorrow at South Coast Conference Championships Long Beacg City College
Warriors Scoreboard Football:
Warriors 27 (5-3), College of The Desert 13
Men’s Soccer: Warriors 4 (5-4-6), Pasadena City College 2
Women’s Soccer:
Warriors 0 (0-11-3), Pasadena City College 1
Women’s Volleyball:
Warriors 1 (13-4), Cerritos College 3
women’s Water Polo:
Warriors 1 (7-14), Santa Monica College 7
FOR MORE SPORTS ACTION GO TO OUR WEBSITE,
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