Volume 104 Issue 08

the corsair • thecorsaironline.com • 1900 pico blvd. santa monica, ca 90405 •(310) 434-4340

CORSAIRvolume 104 issue 8• october 24, 2012 • santa monica college FiRST COPY OF THE CORSAIR IS FREE, EACH COPY AFTER IS 25C

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Arlene KArno Corsair Contributor

Synapse Dance Theater dancers (L-R) Lindsay White and Christopher Holland rehearse their upcoming performance of Nov. 3 and 4 at Santa Monica College. SMC’s Contemporary Dance Ensemble was founded by Linda Gold, with Jae Lee and Roberta-Wolpin-Tupas serve as artistic directors. synapse on PG. 10

Within 10 hours, two unrelated crimes – a strong-arm robbery and an alleged sexual assault – were committed at Santa Monica College last week.In both cases, campus police apprehended

all suspects shortly after the incidents occurred. Sergeant Jerry Romano of the Santa Monica College Police Department said that this week’s incidents were anomalies.At 7:10 p.m. last Wednesday evening,

an SMC student was the victim of an alleged strong-arm robbery. According to a report released by college police, two male juveniles pulled a cell phone from a female victim’s hand near the Quad area of the college’s main campus at 1900 Pico Blvd.While the victim lost her balance and fell

while trying to maintain control of the phone, she was not injured, according to police.An SMCPD officer on a bike witnessed the

attack and pursued the suspects, requesting back up. A perimeter was set up to stop the fleeing suspects, who were later apprehended in a van after officers recognized one of the juveniles in the vehicle.The suspect was taken into custody during

a subsequent stop, which resulted in the arrest of five other individuals on various felony charges, including the recovery of drugs intended for sale.The only name, which has been released,

is that of 40-year-old Arturo Viray, an African American man from Carmel, charged with the possession of illegal drugs for sale. He is also reported to have had a felony warrant out for his arrest for parole violation.Among the suspects was a minor, an

African American male from Harbor City, charged with Grand Theft Person, Resisting Obstructing or Delaying an Officer, and an African American male minor from Bellflower, charged with Conspiracy to

Commit a Crime, and Resisting Obstructing or Delaying an officer.Less than ten hours later, at 5:37 a.m. last

Thursday, an SMC student was the victim of an alleged sexual assault.The alleged attack took place in the HSS

building, when the student walked in and found a man waiting in a stall.According to a report released by the

school, the victim managed to escape when a sound startled her alleged attacker. She ran to a classified worker on campus.The alleged assailant is a 20-40 year old

African American man, who was taken into custody after being identified by the victim. At 12:30 p.m. last Thursday, she was released

from the hospital. In a telephone interview, Sgt. Jerry Romano of the SMCPD could not confirm whether or not she sustained injuries during the alleged attack.“It was a double edged sword, because

she must have thought she was lucky the restrooms were open, because they are normally locked,” said Sgt. Romano. “And then this happens.”According to SMC Director of

Operations Jeffrey Peterson, the custodian in charge of the restrooms came to work earlier than usual for a meeting, and is believed to have unlocked the restroom doors at approximately 5:30 a.m.Seven minutes later, the alleged sexual

attack occurred. According to the college police, in California there is no law prohibiting a man from being in a woman’s restroom as long as he’s not engaging in lewd conduct.As of Tuesday, the suspect had been

released, according to Sgt. Richard Lewis of the Santa Monica Police Department. City

Where would we be without sports? Sports are a release, a form of therapy from all the crap life throws at us. Whether it’s playing or watching, sports make us feel good.College sports in particular, give us a

bigger sense of pride, a sense of belonging. You get a more personal connection with players. That guy who scored twenty points in the latest basketball game? He sits right next to you in math class. The girl who scored the winning goal in soccer? She’s your partner in an English project.By now, it’s no secret that Santa Monica

College has cancelled winter session. What does that mean for winter sports? Both the men and women’s basketball teams have games scheduled in January. Rest easy sports fans, don’t panic—sports

are here to stay. Despite no winter session and the shutting

down of campus during January, regularly scheduled basketball games will still occur. According to SMC athletic director Joe

Cascio, the gym will be open and both basketball teams will have full access to facilities. “We will still be able to host games, nothing will change,” said Cascio.While the winter sports will not be affected

by the cancellation, the spring sports will suffer a bit of a cutback. Spring sports normally began practice and

training in the beginning of January, right after winter break. Rather than start up right away, they will instead begin on January 15. “They’ll lose about seven to eight days of training,” said Cascio.While that may seem like an issue, it

should not be a big problem according to Cascio. “We’ll [SMC] just be like most other schools that don’t have a winter session. Starting training on January 15 is what they’ve been doing.”One area where student athletes are going to

feel the cancellation of winter is off the court. Dr. Cedric Hackett is one of the athletic counselors at SMC. The athletic counselors are more specific, in that not only do they help athletes come up with an academic plan, they also work their classes alongside each specific sport.“By each athlete’s second season, they

need to have twenty-four units, and eighteen of those units need to be academic,” said Hackett. Cutting out winter will decrease the chances athletes have to complete units. Ordinarily, athletes used winter and summer as an opportunity to get units to complete the requirement of 24.“Most of our athletes have aspirations of

playing at the next level,” said Hackett. A longer time spent at SMC will affect an athlete’s opportunity to transfer and play for a Division 1 team.Maintaining good academic standing

as well as coming up with a workable plan is critical to student athletes, and it’s something they depend heavily on their counselors to help them with.Hackett isn’t sure what no winter session

means for athletic counselors. “We really don’t know what’s going to happen yet. There are talks in place to possibly bring some counselors in, but nothing is official.”

CRIME continued on PG. 3

andy riesmeyer &Ruth Mavangira

News editor & staff writer

david yapkowitz &henry crumblish

sports editor & staff writer

MichAel YAnow Corsair

SMC Police Officer Bryan Wilson patrols campus early Tuesday evening. SMCPD arrested two suspects in unrelated crimes committed on campus last week.

STUDENTS ATTACKED ON CAMPUS

more inside

Sports are here to stay

photostory PG.6

Campus life

opinion PG.5 Blogger’s code

of conduct

health & lifestyle PG.8 Antibiotics

prompt new billarts & entertainment PG.10 Dance & theater

previews

news PG.4 Campus pushing

an agenda?

sports PG.12 Women’s volleyball

continues losing streak

arts & entertainment

Synapse preview

for extended coverage visit us at thecorsaironline.com • @the_c orsair • /thecorsairnews • /thecorsaironline

volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 2

The Corsair has been a staple of Santa Monica College since 1929. When it comes to student journalism at California community colleges, few student newspapers can compare to The Corsair’s coverage of campus events, local news, and social issues that matter to the lives of SMC students.But make no mistake: The Corsair is

not immune to the impending danger of budget cuts. This is not so much an urgent plea

to the SMC administration to give priority in preserving the excellence of the journalism department of our college; but I genuinely ask, no, implore, that the students of SMC take an interest in our paper, and join us if you haven’t already.It’s not just reporters and

photojournalists that The Corsair requires. The Corsair needs graphic designers, multimedia journalists, and internet savvy individuals who

can make a meaningful contribution not only to the reputation of our campus’ tradition of award-winning journalism, but to the world of journalism in general. Traditional print media is obviously

in a state of decline. Newsweek, which was founded in 1933, just declared last week that they will be ending their print edition to go entirely online by the end of this year. During The Corsair’s recent visit to the Journalism Association of Community Colleges, we had a chance to speak to many other schools’ editorial boards. We learned that Santa Barbara City College, just one example among many other schools, would be shutting down their print editions.So news organizations, both massive

and small, are feeling the pain for real with their most cherished institutions—the actual printed word.For those of you who were at our

college last semester, no other time could have possibly illustrated the importance of having a free campus

press than when 30 students were pepper-sprayed by campus police after a heated protest outside of the April 3, 2012 Board of Trustees meeting.Without The Corsair being present at

that meeting, I can say with confidence that there would have been absolutely no way for that story to become as nationally important as it had become. Sure, some student footage would have surely made its rounds across the different spheres of the Internet—but it’s difficult to know whether the kind of in-depth reporting that accompanied that story, with the in-your-face visuals that we had, could have driven that story.For students who want to make a

difference in the world around them, there are numerous avenues that one can explore. There’s student government, environmental and civic activism, community service, straight up random acts of loving kindness—but I cannot stress enough just how powerful and effective a medium like good journalism can be.

Think of it this way: if you’re a news junkie, then chances are that you probably get news from a variety of different sources and media. In all likelihood, the most effective and instant method of getting your news is through the Internet.But while the Internet is a fantastic

vehicle for spreading stories at lightning fast speed, the depth of reporting is often just not there yet, and the margin for error is dramatically increased, simply because instant results don’t mean instant accuracy and quality. If you are a writer, a photographer,

a videographer, a blogger—if you are a storyteller—this newspaper welcomes you with open arms. The best way that The Corsair

can live on for posterity’s sake is by students showing an ardent interest in its continued activity. The campus newspaper won’t be relevant simply by saying it’s relevant—it’s up to the students themselves to prove that it is.

contents

E D I T O R I A L S T A F FNathan Gawronsky ····· Editor-in-Chief

c o rs a i r. e d i t o r i n ch i e f@gma i l . c omAmber Antonopoulos ··Managing Editor

c o rs a i r.mana g i n g@gma i l . c omAmber Antonopoulos · Health & Lifestyle

c o rs a i r. l i f e s t y l e p a g e@gma i l . c omAndy Riesmeyer ············· News Editor

c o rs a i r. n e w spa g e@gma i l . c omSamantha Perez ·· Arts & Entertainment

c o rs a i r. c a l e n da r pa g e@gma i l . c omMuna Cosic ···············Opinion Editor

c o rs a i r. o p i n i o n pa g e@gma i l . c omDavid Yapkowitz ··········· Sports Editor

c o rs a i r. s p o r t s p a g e@gma i l . c omIan Kagihara ·········Multimedia Editor

c o rs a i r.mu l t im e d i a@gma i l . c omPaul Alvarez ·················Photo EditorMarine Gaste ··············· Photo Editor

c o rs a i r p h o t o e d i t o r@gma i l . c omNathalyd Meza ·············Design Editor

c o rs a i r. d e s i g n t e am@gma i l . c om

c o r s a i r s t a f fFernando Baltazar, Nathan Berookhim, Kristine Bettencourt, Tiffany Bingham, Peter Cheng, Kou Collins, Samantha Conn, Henry Crumblish, Natalie Delfino, William Duggan, Rachel Duron, Tina Eady, Skya Eiland, Alberto Fernandez, Harrison Garcia, Amy Gaskin, Ryonn Gloster, Jennifer Gomez, Esteban Gonzalez, Deandre Hamilton, David J. Hawkins, Sam Herron, Annjelicia Houston, Zach Johnson, Eugene Jones, Richard Lewis, David Madrid, Juan C. Martinez, Ariana Masters, Ruth Mavangira, Raphael Mawrence, LeAura McClain, Manuel Mejia, Elizabeth Moss, Wayne Neal, Mikaela Oesterlund, Daniella Palm, Molly Philbin, Syney Pitcher, Shawnee Potts, Scott Roush, Allie Silvas, Rachel Spurr, Alex Vejar, Anilec Vita, Merissa Weiland, Livia Wippich, Michael Yanow, Arezou Zakaria

F A C U L T Y A D V I S O R SS a u l R u b i n &

G e r a r d B u r k h a r tA D I n q U I R I E S :

co rsa i r.admanage r@gmai l . c om(310) 434 - 4033

AMY GAsKin Corsair

A photography enthusiast enjoys the opening night reception of “Natura humana,” a photography show of black-and-white com-bined negative darkroom prints by SMC alumnus Steve Engelmann. The show runs through Nov. 21 at the Drescher Gallery. Show hours are Monday through Friday 12-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. The opening gala was held on Saturday evening.

SMC community!if you have photos, feelings or opinions on what we publish, we want to hear from you! e-mail, tweet, or

facebook us. [email protected]

nathan gawrosnkyeditor-iN-Chief

letter from the editor

the value of our newspaper



Free rides on the bus, discounts on selected movie and theme park tickets, and free admission to SMC athletic events are some of the benefits used to attract students to become members of the Associated Students of Santa Monica College. Advertising on campus directs students to join for a flat fee of $19.50. But therein lies the rub: That Andrew

Jackson in your pocket won’t even come close to covering the $32.50 actually required for the membership, thanks to an additional $13 “student ID card fee.”So what’s a few extra dollars, anyway?

Director of Publicity Jesse Ramirez, who is concerned that the advertisements are misleading students, raised this question during a recent A.S. meeting.Ramirez says that after he brought the

issue to the board’s attention, a “faculty member” said he “should just drop it.” “[He] told me that I should just keep my

mouth shut, because if I bring this up, a lot of people are going to pay attention,” said Ramirez. He adds that the unknown faculty member was worried that the Associated Student’s ability to provide campus resources for students would be

threatened if the additional fee were to be exposed to public scrutiny.The college says the initial fee is used by

the AS to fund campus clubs through the Inter Club Council and other programs aimed at promoting student-life activities. The additional fee is necessary to “activate” the electronic strip on the card in order to gain access to campus resources. Ramirez says information from the

Auxiliary Services department provided a breakdown of the additional $13 fee. “$3 goes to the ID card, $5 goes into technology, and $5 goes into transportation,” he says. The Auxiliary Services department would not confirm these numbers, nor offer any additional information regarding the fee.While both fees are optional together,

students can’t pay for one without having to pay for the other. “A student cannot opt out of ID card fees if they want to keep AS benefits,” says Chandra Dhruv, Cash Receipts Coordinator in the Bursar’s Office. “All fees are according to the California Education Code, which is then approved and distributed by the SMC School Board.”Students with existing Student ID cards

who want to purchase an A.S. membership must also pay this fee, though they already have the card.“You have to pay the Student ID card fee

because it is for swiping. You’re paying to swipe the card, to activate it, to be able to ride on the bus,” says Ramirez.In addition to his concerns, Ramirez

is frustrated with the apparent lack of communication between all parties. “The goal here would be to get the administrators to get the Bursars office to get in line with what the AS is marketing,” he says.Dhruv, however, thinks the combined

AS and Student ID should increase. “The

school is charging less then they should for the amount of benefits,” he says. “The unlimited Big Blue Bus pass per person is normally $80 a month. The fees are very reasonable.”“For me, at the end of the day, I would like

to have my own option here, says Ramirez, adding that the way the fee is advertised is unclear. “[I want to] have that option to do as I feel is best for me,” says Ramirez.

news

merissa weilandstaff writer

What’s with the hidden student fees?

AMY GAsKin Corsair

AS Director of Publicity Jesse Ramirez questions the extra fees associated with the group’s membership ID cards at an AS meeting last month.

police are now investigating the incident. The Santa Monica Annual Report on

Crime released earlier this month cited that crime, which had decreased by 4.8 percent in 2011, was on the rise this year.In an interview earlier in the week, Sgt.

Romano stated that the most prevalent crime on campus was theft of personal belongings left unattended, like laptops.“We are not hiding in donut shops, but

working hard to prevent crime on campus,” said Sgt. Romano.He also said that he had as many as four

officers on bicycles, two on motorcycles, several patrolmen on foot, and up to 30 parking enforcement officers throughout SMC’s main and satellite campuses.“We also have many ears and eyes on

campus in the form of student workers in light blue uniforms carrying radios to call in crimes,” Sgt. Romano said.The Corsair could not immediately reach

city police for comments on crime statistics for beat seven and eight, the area immediately outside of SMC’s main campus.“I strongly caution students to be very

careful when they leave campus, especially along Pico corridor. It has a lot of crime that is outside of our jurisdiction,” Sgt. Romano said.Campus police urge students to stay in well

lit, well traveled and populated areas, lock car doors, and walk in pairs with friends or others. At night, campus police escorts are available by calling 310–434–4300.

from crime on PG. 1

Transferring to a four-year institution from a California community college is a lot of students’ educational goal, and the introduction of a new guaranteed transfer program with California State Universities’ attempts to ease the transfer process for students.The California Community College

System and the CSUs introduced the “A Degree With A Guarantee” website on Oct. 2 to inform students on the steps necessary for a guaranteed transfer to a CSU with completed Associate of Arts or Associate of Science transfer degrees.“For the first time in California history,

community college students who complete a new AA-T or AS-T will be guaranteed admission to the CSU system,” according to the program’s website. “With this new degree, you have the opportunity to complete two degrees with only 120 units if you apply and are admitted into a similar degree program.” The news of the new program is starting to circulate among some Santa Monica College students. “Students are beginning to get excited about

this new program,” said SMC counselor Suzanne McDonald, who is seeing a rise of students visiting her regarding the program. “We are going to have a lot of students coming to us about this.” Students with the transfer degrees will enter

as standing juniors to any CSU campus, and with only 60 more units at a CSU, will complete a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. Each California community college offers associate degrees of transfer, but for majors offered at various CSU campusesSMC offers an associate degree for transfer

in five majors for now, but more will be added later, barring more funding from the passage of Proposition 30. Students at SMC can get guaranteed transfer with completed associate degrees in Art History, Business Administration, Early Childhood Education, History, or Mathematics, according to the SMC transfer services website.This new transfer program is part of

legislation passed in 2010 to make the transfer process easier for community college students. According to a California Community College Chancellor’s Office press release, the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act requires community colleges and Cal States to work together on associate transfer

degrees.According to McDonald, “[some students

are] lagging in getting through school. They aren’t getting a university degree in four years, but in eight or nine years.” This new transfer program was developed to help and motivate students to transfer sooner. But if Prop. 30 fails to pass in this upcoming

election, the new program will face problems. “If Prop. 30 does not pass, it may be that

we are shooting ourselves in the foot,” said McDonald. “If we don’t get funding, then students won’t get the classes they need to transfer on time, and the plan won’t be practical or desirable.” A shortage of classes and teachers will

only limit the resources offered to students, disabling them from transferring on time. “We need adequate funding so that students

can get the classes they need and want,” said McDonald, who also added that if students can’t get the classes they need at SMC, then they would look to go to another school and complicate their transfer process.The program’s website informs students of

the three steps necessary for a guaranteed transfer. The first step is completing 60 semester units at a CCC for an AA-T or AS-T degree. The second step is getting accepted at a CSU where the completed associate degree transfers to a corresponding program at the school. The third step is completing the bachelor’s degree with 120 units from CCC and CSU coursework combined. Not all CSUs offer the same majors or accept

the same AA-T or AS-T degrees form CCCs, so students need to consider their options. “Community colleges offer more than 450 new associate degrees for transfer in 20 of the most popular transfer majors, and more are being added,” states the CCCCO press release. “These degrees provide pathways to more than 300 baccalaureate degrees across the California State University system.” But students still need to go through the

same application process in order to transfer. It’s important to know all the deadlines for applying for a transfer. The deadline to apply for transfer for Fall 2013 is Nov. 30, through the CSU Mentor system. During the application process, students will be able to identify themselves as AA-T or AS-T applicants for a guaranteed transfer.Students should speak to their counselors

about their major and what coursework they need in order to complete an AA-T or an AS-T degree for a guaranteed CSU transfer in the majors SMC offers.

muna cosicopiNioN editor

A degree with a guarantee


volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 4 news

SMC Corsairs host SBCC Vaqueros

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Corsair Field, 1:00 pm

Free admission with valid A.S. Sticker. UP

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A.S. FUNDS AT WORKHere’s how your contributions make

a difference.

Campus ToursTransportation, lodging, snacks,

and more. San Francisco, here we come!

International Student Forum

Spirit Week and Homecoming

T-shirts, concession coupons, food, advertising, and

various fees.Associated Students

STUDENT PERKSPaid upon enrollment, your

Associated Students fee of $19.50 entitles you to:

Big Blue Bus transportSMC Club Funding

Discount Movie Ticketsat 9 participating theaters

$15 worth of Free Printingat the A.S. Computer Lab

Jesse A. Ramirez, Director of Publicity(310) 434-4965

www.smc.edu/associated_students

VETERANS DAY CELEBRATIONPlease join us in honoring and thanking all veterans of the United States Armed Forces. All are welcome to attend.Thursday, November 8, 2012 at the Quad, 11:15

SMC HOMECOMINGIDOL CONTESTPresented by Corsair Athletics, A.S., SMC Future AlumniCome listen as singers compete for a chance to sing the National Anthem at the SMC Homecoming game!October 25, 2012, Library Walkway, 11:15 am

DIA DE LOS MUERTOSPresented by The Association of Latin American Students (A.L.A.S.)Celebrate and honer loved ones who have passed in this time-honored Latin tradition.November 1, 2012 at the Quad in the grass area, 11:15 am

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS BOARD MEETINGExpress your concerns regarding all things student life.October 22, 2012Cayton Center3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

CLUB ROW FALL 2012Hosted by the Inter-Club CouncilColorful booths, tons of food, activities, music, dance and explosive demonstrations. Learn about club activities. Become a club member!October 25, 2012 at the Quad, 11:15 am - 12:35 pm

STUDENT VOTER REGISTRATIONExercise your right and responsibility! Register. Find your polling place. Learn about candidates and ballot measures.www.smc.edu/AcademicAffairs/Library/Pages/Elections_2012.aspx

It doesn’t take very long to run into political opinions at Santa Monica College’s campus. From candidates at club meetings to workers wearing Prop 30 buttons on the quad, ideology is everywhere. But what happens when it reaches the

classroom?According to Teri Bernstein, chair of the

Professional Ethics and Responsibilities Committee at the school, students have alleged complaints of teachers’ outspoken biases for years. However, teachers are entitled to their opinions as much as the next person — but with a few conditions.For starters, the first amendment protects

a professor’s right to free speech, but only as long as they fairly present both sides of the story. And teachers aren’t allowed to use school funded resources like computers, pens, envelopes, and more to “support or oppose ballot measures and candidates,” according to the California Education Code. Also, as a government funded entity, SMC is

required to have voter registration documents.“I think [professors] can go as far as they

want as long as they let the other side be presented,” said Bernstein. She also said teachers hold the right to speak their minds, which includes wearing political pins. Conversely, California law states: “No

officer or employee of a local agency shall participate in political activities of any kind while in uniform.” According to Bernstein, “uniform” pertains to anyone in an actual uniform like Police and Classified Employees, and typically dis-includes teachers.That means that those workers in the

quad are technically not allowed to display support for any campaign or candidate.A document was released from the college

on behalf of Executive Vice President Randy Lawson, outlining and detailing what professors and staff members can and can’t say in regards to their political opinions. “Even if these discussions do come up and

people get uncomfortable, it’s great,” she said. “It’s an important life-skill to live and work with people with different opinions than you.”Currently, PERC is drafting a document

that advises professors on how to approach political discussions. “It talks mainly about sensitivity to the needs of others, erring on the side of caution,” said Bernstein. The document was born from a complaint submitted by a student about a teacher who she found pushed his opinions excessively.“I think it’s really important for teacher’s

to be balanced in class,” said Benjamin Allen, a Political Science professor. “Our job is to encourage critical thought among our students.”Allen’s comment falls in line with PERC’s

Statement on Ethics, which in part reads that teachers should “protect students’ academic freedom and encourage tolerance and open-mindedness in the pursuit of learning, while modeling and fostering honest academic conduct.” “It’s completely appropriate for a professor

to help a student understand an issue,” said James Stramel, a Professor of Philosophy. However, as a professor, he has avoided speaking for or against Proposition 30. “I think that teachers do have a

responsibility to check themselves and be mindful,” he said.

Elizabeth mossstaff writer

Campus sets record straight on campaigning

If you tried to count to one trillion at a rate of one number per second for sixteen hours a day, it would take you nearly fifty thousand years.One trillion of anything is fairly

incomprehensible, which makes the trillion dollars of national student loan debt all the more mind boggling. Increases in tuition, spurred by budget cuts

and rising demand for college degrees, are set to push the number even higher, according to the Pew Research Center.Rising costs and state budget cuts have

combined to prevent more students from attending universities, and have funneled many of them toward the relatively low cost community college system, according to officials at Santa Monica College.“Definitely students will come out with much

lower bills,” said SMC Counseling Department Chair Laurie Guglielmo. “It’s driving students to us even more.”However, Gulielmo says students are taking

longer to transfer due to reductions in class offerings. “Students are very concerned about staying

on the right path,” Guglielmo said, adding that an efficient transferring process was also a priority. “We’re still absolutely the best bargain in town.”Tax increase measures up for a vote on

November 6 will determine if California public schools will receive greater funding or be forced to suffer more cuts.Bargain or not, people like SMC student Alex

Posalski continue to worry about the growing debt. “I think I’m going to be living with my

parents for a while,” he said.According to a recent analysis of Federal

Reserve data by the Pew Research Center, debt on student loans has increased to five percent of all national debt, up from three percent in 2005.The same report found that 19 percent of

American households now bear at least some student loan debt, and in households headed by individuals under 35, the number is more than double that.At the same time, median income continues to fall—down to $50,054 in 2011, the last year for which data is available. That’s 8.1 percent below the median income in 2007.On the corner of 17th Street and Pico

Boulevard, Javier Velasquez paused in between puffs of his cigarette to try and make sense of the numbers. “I guess I just don’t really think about it,” he said. “I just kind of take it for granted, you know? It costs a lot of money to go to college.”College costs have continued to rise across

the country for years. In California, tuition at all three public institutions of higher learning have increased. According to the California Legislative Analyst’s office, an average UC resident undergraduate tuition was $6,636 in 2007-08 school year. At Cal. State universities, costs were even lower, only $2,722. Average tuition paid at California community colleges was $600.From 2011-12, however, tuitions rose 84

percent at UC’s, 97 percent at Cal States, and 130 percent at community colleges. That means a resident full time student paid an average of $600 a year to attend a community college four years ago. The average cost today is $1,380.

william dugganstaff writer

Student debt: CCs to bring relief?



There was no shortage of expert analysis after Monday’s third and final presidential debate. Indeed after every debate held this election season, it seems the talking heads have kept their lips in fifth gear, rattling off predictions and clichés faster than machine gunfire.Is there any point to these commentaries?

Is anything that comes out of Ari Fleischer’s mouth worth hearing? Why is the media so eager to tell us their political views? Is there any value in watching people who are supposed to be professionals yell at each other from opposite sides of the room, while a perfectly coiffed Anderson Cooper stares helplessly at camera two and tries not to roll his eyes, telling us what to think of the debate? Unfortunately, the answer to all of those questions is yes; even the part about Ari Fleischer. First of all, there is a visceral component to

this. In a country that relishes competition

in nearly every form, there is no greater gladiatorial endeavor than politics. Democratic politics have always been a blood sport; ask Daniel Webster. Plato himself, an Athenian, preferred monarchic rule.There is no doubt that it’s great drama

when two very rich, famous and powerful people agree to argue in front of the whole country, feeding them words they believe will get them votes. Throw into the mix the fact that nearly every single person has thrown in their lot with one side or the other — the free world hangs in the balance — and you’ve got yourself a recipe for seriously great television. It’s not just “sex sells.” Politics sells, too.Can you really blame networks like CNN,

MSNBC, FOX News, and others for getting in on that kind of action? Should they be meddling into your political views? The media will always be there to tell you which candidate was better and who you should bless with your vote. It feels good, after all, for the winning side

— Democrat or Republican — to bask in

glorious victory over a hated opponent. It’s much the same when my beloved Patriots slap the Ravens or Jets and send them packing with tail between legs. Great television sells ads, and in the end these companies have to keep the lights on just like the rest of us, so that journalists can get a job.But there’s more to it than just the money.

Sure some of what people say during pre and post debate analysis is over the top, and many times overtly partisan. It’s not always fun to hear what they have to say. In fact it can be downright infuriating and annoying. But, what if people we disagreed with weren’t allowed to put in their two cents? Therein lies the infuriating beauty of

free speech. The right that gives everyone — even hateful, myopic, unintelligent, misinformed, self-serving propagandists — to say what they have to say if someone will listen, is the same right which allows decent, hardworking, honest people stand up for what’s right, and speak out against what is wrong.

None of our founding fathers professed that the path of liberty and democracy was an easy one. Our system of government is very far from perfect, and our society, despite this perverse notion of “American exceptionalism,” is by its very nature imperfect. The degree of diversity, the proliferation of different ideas and points of view, the many voices that create this kaleidoscopic melting pot called America, must always be allowed to be heard no matter how infuriating it can sometimes be.It can be very hard to remember the value

of free speech in the middle of election season. Especially in a place like Nevada that sees an average of 10,000 political ads a week. But the absence of those ads would be

infinitely more frightening.Let’s look at the glass half full in these

closing weeks of a hard campaign, and take a minute to savor our speech, no matter whose mouth it is coming from. Just let’s maybe pour that glass half full of whiskey to be safe.

Society has created a variety of media that the public can use to voice their opinions and comments on issues facing this world. The constant need to “be heard” has overtaken society’s rationality, and measured rationality. There is no stopping the public from commenting and voicing their thoughts, because the Internet isn’t allowing them to pull back and take a breath; rather pushing them forward with more media for them to succumb their opinions to. When that urge to be heard arises—on a

topic screaming for society’s attention—the feeling of keys being pressed beneath your fingers, while intensely staring at the letters appearing on the screen, creating words that best fit your feelings, is today’s antidote for pent up emotions; this is known as blogging.Blogging is entertaining and fun, if done

responsibly, but there are consequences facing bloggers who dare express extreme opinions. According to OnlineBlog.com, a site for resources, articles and information for bloggers, “in 2009, damages in blogging cases totaled over $17 million. In some countries, bloggers have been arrested over opinions or information posted in blogs.”Cyberbullying is still on the rise, and as

a main factor tackled during October’s bullying prevention month, it is important to understand to what extent cyber bullying can escalate. According to the Cyberbullying Research

Center website, “Cyberbullying is a growing problem because increasing numbers of kids are using and have completely embraced interactions via computers and cell phones. Two-thirds of youth go online every day for school work, to keep in touch with their friends, to play games, to learn about celebrities, to share their digital creations, or for many other reasons.”As much as we enjoy blogging our

thoughts away, it’s important to consider the negative side effects blogging can trudge along. “Blogging also may compromise the personal safety of a blogger,” states the Online Blog website. “Bloggers expressing controversial opinions may receive threats from those who do not agree.” Careless words without consideration can cause a blogger a lot of difficulties and animosity. Since there are many cases of bloggers

facing life threats, because of the content in their blogs, a Blogger’s Code of Conduct was introduced by Tim O’Reilly in 2007, an idea proposing a more “civil” blogosphere. Tim O'Reilly, one of the web's most

influential thinkers, told BBC Radio Five Live, that "the fact that there's all these really messed-up people on the internet is not a statement about the Internet. It is a statement about those people and what they do, and we need to basically say that you guys are doing something unacceptable, and not generalize it into a comment about this is what's happening to the blogosphere." Indeed, unacceptable behavior needs to be stopped or at least limited.According to Bullyingstatistics.org, a

website that provides bullying statistics, states that one in three young adults have experienced cyberthreats online. Also, “over 25 percent of adolescents and teens have been bullied repeatedly through their cell phones or the Internet,” according to Cyber bullying statistics from the i-SAFE foundation.Bloggers have the power to sit in front of

their computer and spew their thoughts to whoever is reading their posts. The question remains though; why is there so much negativity in the world of blogging? Bloggers, and those who love to comment under anything that tells them “write your comment here,” are more open to criticize and emit hate among others, than they would to someone face-to-face. It’s a psychological factor, but that is a whole new side to debate and consider. One of the easiest ways to start a blog

now is Tumblr.com, a blogging site founded in 2007 by David Karp, which has over 78 million blogs registered. This is an example of how much blogging has risen in today’s society. It is not just about opening a Facebook or Twitter account now, but starting a Tumblr blog has become a big trend, as well. Those blogs that are considered “Tumblr famous” have a lot of power with the words they post.According to the New York Times, there

has been “a recent outbreak of antagonism among several prominent bloggers,” and O’Reilly posted on his company blog, radar.oreilly.com, that it “gives us an opportunity to change the level of expectations that people have about what's acceptable online.” O’Reilly is correct with his stance of what is unacceptable online behavior, but the reality is that most don’t really care.

The point of blogging, as much as it should be done responsibly, is to express whatever bogs a blogger’s mind, while putting out any doubt of criticism. No one can stop them from blogging their opinions or doing whatever they want with their blogs. Perhaps it can be said that O’Reilly’s Blogger’s Code of Conduct isn’t a bad idea to implement, considering the many negative side effects blogging drags along, but it is hard to control fingers that rush along a keyboard, typing opinions and comments, affecting many with the words

forming a message. Either it is time people understand the power their words have, that many are cyberbullies without even being aware of it, or else rules should be implemented.Blogging shouldn’t be taken lightly or

irresponsibly. As long as bloggers think before they type their opinions and comments on the world wide web, at least then, the consequence of disrespecting and hurting someone is less than it would be with careless words thrown around.

opinion

william dugganstaff writer

muna cosicopiNioN editor

Does the media affect your political views?

The blogger’s code of conduct


volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 6 photostory

AMY GAsKin Corsair

After 5 p.m., students run for the Big Blue Bus after waiting on Pico Boulevard on Tuesday.


volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 7photostory


Cheerleaders perform on the quad on Tuesday.

AMY GAsKin Corsair

Art student Garen Novruzyan draws in the courtyard of the Art Building on the main campus late Tuesday afternoon.

AMY GAsKin Corsair

Douglas Ordonez, a first-year civil engineering major, practices soccer out on the field on Tuesday. Ordonez plays in a Saturday league and is considering trying out for SMC soccer or cross country next year.

AMY GAsKin Corsair

Students walk across the courtyard at the end of the day Tuesday.

campus

life



Dr. Brad Spellberg once treated a patient who had a typical urinary tract infection. She had properly taken her prescribed dose of oral antibiotics, but when the bacteria associated with her infection failed to respond, the infection spread from her urine into her blood, and then to her spine, ultimately paralyzing her. “These are mundane infections that,

historically, we could give an antibiotic pill, and the patient would be fine after a couple of days, but not anymore,” Spellberg said.Such infections are associated with

the overuse of antibiotics, which fosters resistant strains of bacteria, according to Spellberg, an infectious disease physician and professor of medicine at UCLA’s Geffen School of Medicine.“These infections are happening now,”

Spellberg said. “They are going to be increasingly common, and they are going to be increasingly resistant. The more antibiotics we use, the faster resistance spreads.”Spellberg joined Rep. Henry A. Waxman,

D-Calif., and local chefs and activists at a press conference last Tuesday in Santa Monica to address this public health issue, and announce Waxman’s proposed legislation in Congress to curb the pervasive use of antibiotics in animals.“The problem is that the widespread use

of antibiotics is a serious health threat,” Waxman said. “The overuse of antibiotics leads to the development of pathogens that become resistant to antibiotics, and this is a danger to families.”The U.S. Food and Drug Administration

first approved antibiotics “as feed additives for farm animals” in 1951, for the purpose of fostering healthy animals and preventing transmission of bacteria to humans, according to an FDA report. But there is a growing concern that the

use of antibiotics on animals at current levels may be associated with increasing antibiotic resistance. Waxman said at the press conference

that antibiotics are sometimes given to treat sick animals, but that they are largely administered to healthy animals in order to speed growth or treat potential conditions that could result from overcrowded farms.According to Waxman, little data is

available about the types, purposes and quantities of these antibiotics, but “the lion’s share” of the nation’s antibiotic supply—about 80 percent—is used on animals. “The question then becomes, is there

a link between the antibiotics put into animals and the spread of resistance to humans?” Spellberg said. “There is a very clear consensus among credible scientists that there is a link.”“The FDA, the U.S. Department of

Agriculture, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all testified before Congress that there was a definitive link between the routine, non-therapeutic uses of antibiotics in food animal production and the crisis of antibiotic resistance in humans,” according to the research organization Pew Health Group. The FDA released guidelines in April that

call upon drug companies and farms to promote “judicious use” of antibiotics to help curb resistant bacteria. Waxman’s proposed bill, the Delivering

Antibiotic Transparency in Animals Act, or DATA Act, would mandate that drug manufacturers and feed mills submit comprehensive data to the FDA on the use of antibiotics in farms, according to a news release from Waxman’s office.“With this information, scientists will be

able to better pinpoint the relationship of routine use of antibiotics in animals, and the development of dangerous resistant bugs, and these bugs can harm human beings,” Waxman said. “This information will inform federal scientists in Congress and start us down the path to sensible regulation.”Some industry groups and animal

advocate organizations such as Animal Health Institute have remained in support of the “responsible use” of antibiotics in

animals, claiming “animal antibiotics make our food supply safer and people healthier.”Jean Halloran, the director of food policy

initiatives at Consumers Union, said at the press conference that Consumer Reports magazine has been opposed to antibiotics in animal feed since 1978.Consumers Union has launched a “Meat

without Drugs” campaign that is currently urging Trader Joe’s to sell only meat and dairy from animals that have been raised without antibiotics.Chefs Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill

and Nancy Silverton of Pizzeria Mozza and Osteria Mozza joined Halloran and Spellberg at the press conference in voicing

their support of Waxman’s proposed legislation.Waxman, ranking member of the House’s

Energy and Commerce Committee who was first elected in 1974, said that he will introduce the DATA Act in Congress after the Nov. 6 election.Waxman is up for re-election in the new

33rd Congressional District, which includes Santa Monica.“The DATA Act will give us the

data we need to actually implement countermeasures to prevent the spread of resistance,” Spellberg said. “[It] should be enacted as soon as possible to deal with this critical public health threat.”

health + lifestyle

rAchel spurr Corsair

Rep. Henry A. Waxman, D-Calif., introduces Mary Sue Milliken (center), of Border Grill and Top Chef Masters, and Nancy Silverton, of Osteria Mozza and Pizzeria Mozza, during a press conference last Tuesday at Border Grill in Santa Monica, covering the widespread use of antibiotics in animals raised for human consumption.

rAchel spurr Corsair

Waxman stands alongside Dr. Brad Spellberg, an infectious disease physician and professor of medicine at UCLA’s Geffen School of Medicine, as he states concerns about antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotic resistance prompts new legislation

amber antonopoulosMaNagiNg editor


volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 9health + lifestyle

First-time author Tema N. Merback’s nervousness was conveyed only by a slight tremor in her voice. But the audience at Santa Monica College

last Tuesday was soon transported from their comfortable seats to the Auschwitz concentration camps, as Merback told the story of her mother Dina, a Holocaust survivor, who was the basis for the protagonist of her debut novel “In the Face of Evil.” There was a palpable silence as Merback read

excerpts from her book in front of a projected image of a carefully preserved photograph of a man with a marked look of horror in his eyes. The man pictured was Dina’s father, who arrived at Auschwitz two years before Dina did, and was killed there. According to Merback, in an effort to come full

circle and find closure, a mature Dina retraced her steps to Radom, Poland, where she found the names of family members etched onto stones 16 feet tall. She was also able to retrieve the photograph she showed at the lecture—one of only three family mementos she has left.“This was the final resting place of her family,

and this was her moment to say goodbye,” said Merback.The author said she was faced with the

difficult decision of asking her mother to relive the painful experience of the Holocaust. Often, all the writer had to rely on were her mother’s fading memories. “Her memories were the skeletons she gave

me from her heart, and it was my job to find the flesh through my words—to clothe them and bring them to life in this novel,” said Merback.

Although the story depicts nonfiction elements, Merback said she made a conscious decision to write “In the Face of Evil” as a novel, not a memoir. “We’ve all read memoirs—some good and

some bad,” Merback said. “I decided to write it as a novel so that the readers could get to know the characters and care for them. I didn’t think Holocaust reading would be at the top of anyone’s list, so I wanted to write the story in a way that would make it relevant to young people.”The author said she hopes that readers can

draw parallels to present times through themes explored in the novel such as displacement, unemployment, unrealized potential, love, dreams, and immigration.Merback said she deliberately wrote her

mother’s story in first person.“I wanted to tell the story through her eyes,”

Merback said. “I remember when I was a little girl, my mother would tell me her story, and we would cry together.” For Merback, among the challenges of

reconstructing Dina’s story of surviving the Holocaust was creating the accurate historical background as a vehicle to carry the novel.“I had to do so much research because,

obviously, this is something which has been well-documented,” Merback said. Her creative process was to try to write at

least 10 pages per day, and to not necessarily write in a linear way, but to move around while constructing her story. “I would just get into my car and drive, and I’d

be working on the story in my head, and then I’d write again when I was ready,” she said. Merback’s novel brings to life the theme of

time in relation to trauma. According to a

clinical psychology report from the Department of Medicine at the University of Sydney, on resolution of disorientation and amnesia during post-traumatic stress, victims of a traumatic experience are often disoriented in relation to time, in an effort to disassociate themselves. “My mother said she was in a camp for three

weeks, but it was three months,” said Merback. “My mother cannot remember a lot of dates, but she remembers seasons—the sweat running down the inside of her dress, or the breeze blowing in her face.” “In the Face of Evil” dissects themes of identity

and dehumanization, both large aspects of the Holocaust.During the time that Dina was at the

concentration camp, her name was reduced to the number tattooed on her arm: A-14569.The novel explores the complex human

psychology of how different people react in situations where they are the innocent

bystanders of acts of violence being perpetrated on others. “People who had been neighbors just averted

their faces and refused to make eye contact when the vans came to take the Jews away,” said Merback. Conversely, Merback also illustrates the virtue

of the resounding kindness of the human spirit. The novel’s opening theme of an idyllic

childhood is a symbolic metaphor for the calm before the storm. The subtheme of change is apparent from the moment that a young Dina’s life is shattered. The prevalent theme of appearance versus

reality is particularly depicted in a scene where Merback describes the young Dina naked, being examined by a good-looking man with white gloves. “The face of evil can be—and in this instance

was—very handsome,” Merback said.

ruth mavangirastaff writer

Endurance “In the Face of Evil”

GAo Yu ZhAnG Corsair Contributor

Author Tema N. Merback signs her debut novel “In the Face of Evil” for a Santa Monica College English student last Tuesday after giving the second lecture of the SMC fall Literary Series.


volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 10 Arts + entertainment

Arlene KArno Corsair Contributor

Dancers Dorian Wordlaw and Marie Bayo rehearse “Golger,” a piece choreographed by Seda Aybay on Friday at SMC.

Distant drums. A fanfare made its way across the floor. In matte shades of purple, green and brown, dancers performed “Noche de Docellas,” a tale about two young girls who wander into the night. This pre-Hispanic piece closes Global

Motion, a concert put on by the Santa Monica College Dance Department, set to perform Nov. 9 and 10 on the Broad Stage. “Global Motion is all about diversity and

global citizenship,” Dance Department Director Judith Douglas said. “It means that we have an opportunity to instruct

students that may never learn again.”Based on the theme “Now and Then,”

choreographers produced ensembles that illustrate techniques and styles from the ancient past to the present. The embodiment of this concept was an African ensemble, in which traditional West-African movement fused with wild hip-hop and culminated in an understanding between the two forms. “Even though we have different forms

now, it connects with the past,” said Sri Susilowati, co-director of Global Motion. The performance was hindered by what

most previews lack: Energy and movement definition. However, there were more than a few notable exceptions.

Glenn Rodriguez’s lyrical jazz ensemble, “Repercussions,” was lovely and fluid, with a satisfying array of spin-leap combinations. The movement spoke about bad breakups, and finding oneself in the aftermath. During the show’s updated gypsy piece,

the dancers come together in united execution to deliver a mass of turns and jumps that is surprising for their large number. In one dance, a couple literally “ties the

knot” by dragging a red cloth with their feet amidst Mexican cat calls--which the audience is encouraged to participate in.“You’re going to see dances you’ve never

seen before,” said Izella Berman, a first

year SMC student who has danced for the past seven years. “You have to go for it every time,” she said. Through everything, the group’s

dedication is palpable. Many travel up to two hours by bus to attend rehearsals, as well as their classes.“You just have to have the mentality of

never quitting,” said Berman. “Every semester we learn from [the

dancers],” said Susilowati. “They’re not just using their bodies, they’re using their minds.”Tickets for Global Motion are $15 for

students (with a current SMC ID) and senior citizens, and $18 at the door.

In two weeks, the creative art of dance unfolds at Santa Monica College when the Synapse Dance Theater will showcase their talents for the season. The contemporary dance ensemble, directed by Jae Lee and Roberta Wolin-Tupas, features 12 different theatrical pieces including a wide variety of dance styles.According to the press release

provided by the SMC Dance Department, Synapse Dance Theater has allowed dancers to perform, choreograph and perfect their craft for more than 35 years. This season, Synapse features choreography by faculty artists, professional guest artists and up-and-coming student choreographers. “I’ve been here for four years, and to

show that I’ve grown to be the person I am today means a lot,” said student choreographer Alberta Keyes. “It was stressful, but it all came together with improv and collaboration from the other dancers.” She said the performance is “a

wonderful experience and a great start for someone who wants to take a creative journey.”The contemporary ensemble is

composed of dancers who come from many different backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures, but they all come together to share their passion for dance. The dancers have worked for six weeks in order to provide a breathtaking and unforgettable

experience.“I dance because I love to create.

Dance is important because it involves all aspects: mind, body and soul,” said Dorion Wordlaw, a Synapse dancer. “Each piece is extreme, because we make you think as well as feel it emotionally.” For their upcoming exhibition,

spectators should expect to see the group’s dynamics and strengths. The costumes and makeup, combined with the interesting selections of music, complete the show effortlessly. The dancers showcase their hard work and storytelling abilities by striking beautiful lines and evoking powerful emotions. In “The Effort in Evolving,” a

contemporary/modern piece, the dance troupe makes an effort to de-stigmatize feminine qualities by making female and male qualities unisex. Both genders wear lipstick, aprons and collared shirts. The dance is meant to make the audience reflect, and it contributes to the artistic qualities of the ensemble as a whole. Synapse Dance Theater’s

performance will be held at SMC’s very own The Broad Stage, on Saturday, Nov. 3 at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m. There is free parking available, and students with an SMC ID can buy tickets for $15. General admission costs $18. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.smc.edu/eventsinfo or at the SMC Theater Arts Box Office.

Synapse dancers express passion and strength

Now and then, Global Motion celebrates world cultures

LeAura McClainstaff writer

Elizabeth mossstaff writer

$10 Tuesday: M Street Kitchen

There are those days when we are too lazy to get up early, but really just can’t get over that craving for French Toast. It’s a beautiful day and you’re dressed in your trendiest outfit. Denny’s just really isn’t going to cut it. Where to go? M Street Kitchen in Santa Monica—

problem solved.With a crowd waiting outside, modern

décor and hip, young patrons, many may think that M Street Kitchen would take too much of a toll on their pocketbook. Surprisingly, even a student on a $10 budget can enjoy this fashionable restaurant.Serving their delicious breakfast fare until 4 p.m., as well as affordable lunch and dinner options late into the day, M Street Kitchen

is the best place to go in Santa Monica when you’ve got a hankering for an omelet, a burger, or breakfast burrito.Known best for their popularity at

brunch, it’s better to make a reservation ahead of time through OpenTable.com prior to your arrival. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck waiting upwards of a half an hour for a seat. If you’re dining during the day, request the covered patio, where you can enjoy the beautiful L.A. weather. The softly lit interior is best saved for evenings, when candlelight creates an ambiance for a romantic date or dinner celebration.If breakfast is what you crave, try their home-made English muffins. Whether it’s choosing an egg sandwich, or forgoing toast as your side, you can’t go wrong with these soft and fresh muffins to fill you up. An

Original Egg Sandwich, topped with ham, bacon, organic sausage, turkey, avocado, and mayo, served with side of fresh greens, is only $7.50. Recommended by restaurant staff is the

French toast for $9. This is not your average soggy toast, this thick and delicious bread is coated in crispy cinnamon sugar, and its interior is filled with creamy custard. Each bite is a little taste of heaven.My brunch favorite will use up your whole

$10 bill, but it is worth the price, and is healthier than French Toast. The Acapulco Omelet, filled with avocado, jalapeno and Oaxacan cheese, meets the $10 cap, but is the perfect breakfast to spice up your day, as well as a healthy alternative to the French toast. Crispy tortilla strips and a side of 9-grain toast scomplete the dish, so don’t

be surprised if you can’t finish the entire plate.M Street Kitchen has a great brunch menu with options under $10. A Stacked Turkey Sandwich, California Griddle Burger or bowl of Tortilla Soup will each tickle your taste buds without breaking the bank. And if you find yourself at M Street between 4 and 6:30 p.m., be sure to take a look at the happy hour menu, where items from the dinner menu will be slashed. Beer, wine and sangria also receive a price cut and run between $3 and $5.For those on a gluten-free diet, ask your

waiter for the Gluten-Free Menu, which has numerous options to accommodate your dietary and budgetary needs.M Street Kitchen is located a block from

the beach in Santa Monica at 2000 Main Street.

Danielle RouillardCoNtributor



In 1942, society was rife with paranoia as a result of the war. President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared all people of Japanese ancestry were to be excluded from the entire Pacific coast, and authorized “War Relocation Camps,” where the Japanese were sent to internment camps.This shameful period of American history is expressed beautifully through text, music, dance, and powerful imagery in Santa Monica College’s original production, “Heart Mountain.” Written by SMC Public Information

Officer G. Bruce Smith, and the concept developed by Theatre Arts Department Chair Perviz Sawoski, the story follows a fictional Japanese-American family from Venice, Calif. through four years of their experience in an internment camp in Heart Mountain, Wyo. The Corsair attended a private

viewing of the production on Oct. 19, two weeks before the premiere. At the run through, the incorporation of dance set the mood and pushed the story forward. A constructed screen is intended to project archival images of the real camps, adding another dimension.“This space is set up for experimental

theatre, so I thought, what new thing can we do with the space,” Sawoski said. “I wanted to do something different, that incorporated dance movement.” Although fictional, the script is well

researched, incorporating real stories from internees and their descendants. Smith was even able to contact two internees who had spent time at Heart Mountain. “Some of the things that happen in

the script happened to them or others,” Smith said. “The story is very moving,” Sawoski added.Sawoski said that when she got

the idea for the play, she brought it immediately to Smith, saying, “You have to write an amazing play on this topic!” Smith wrote “Heart Mountain” in two months; soon after, cast auditions were held.Despite the realistic depth of the

play, both collaborators had little to no connection with the topic. The closest either had come was Smith, who recalled his mother mentioning some of her high school friends being sent to the camps. “On the issue of ‘write what you

know,’ I don’t necessarily buy into that theory,” Smith said, referencing Shakespeare’s tragedy “King Lear” as an example. “Imagination can take us there.”Sawoski said, without hesitation, that

the student cast was fabulous. According to Sawoski, she and Smith could not have produced the play without their contribution. “It’s stunning the amount of talent among the students,” she said. Sawoski encourages attendance,

saying that there are so many more reasons to come than to just be entertained. “It’s not exactly a fantasy, but it’s kind of fun in that dark way,” she said. “It’s going to be beautiful.”“Heart Mountain” will open at the

SMC Studio Stage, Nov. 2. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $10. On the night of Nov. 4 there will be a panel discussion including internees — some of which from Heart Mountain — and a representative from the Japanese American Citizens League. There will also be a Q&A with the cast, and a reception afterwards funded by the Global Citizen Council.

Arts + entertainment

FernAndo BAltAZAr Corsair

Public Information Officer G. Bruce Smith discusses his creative process and inspriration for writing the original play “Heart Mountain.”

Smith and Sawoski take us back to “Heart Mountain”

Molly Philbinstaff writer


volume 104 issue 8 • october 24, 2012 • santa monica college 12 sports

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Giving up may sound like the easiest thing to do when things don’t go your way. However those thoughts don’t enter the minds of the Santa Monica College women’s volleyball team, who are currently on a three game losing skid after a tough loss on Wednesday against Citrus and a loss Friday against Burbank. The Corsairs were resilient throughout

the match against Burbank.. Hope began to vanish, but the Corsairs remained poised. The score was 24-16 with Bakersfield up two sets to zero. The Corsairs would not give up, scoring the next five points highlighted by a Hannah Pope kill. Life was brought back into the crowd, but it was suddenly extinguished, as Bakersfield scored the final point, leaving SMC with their third consecutive loss. “You have to stay aggressive, even when

we are put under pressure,” outside hitter Hannah Pope said. “I was very pleased with the game, even if we lost. As long as we worked our hardest, I’m pleased. And we did put in 150 percent.”That was SMC’s second loss, as they had

lost a match to Citrus on Wednesday in three sets as well. The game at Citrus had a little bit of a

different tone. “There were a lot of unforced errors,” head coach Nicole Ryan said. “They [Citrus] were a very talented offensive team, and I think that kind of shocked us a little bit. Their team was a lot bigger.” “We played timidly against Citrus because

they were a taller team, so we played a bit scared. But next round we will step it up, because we know we could beat that team,” Pope said. The Corsairs will try to fight their way out

of their losing streak, taking on Glendale on Friday Oct. 26 at SMC at 7 p.m.

Kou Collinsstaff writer

Women’s volleyball continues losing streak


Santa Monica College freshman Tessa Barbee in action during the first half against Cuesta College last Thursday at the Santa Monica Swim Center. The women’s team lost 8-7 on a last second goal. Earlier in the day, the men’s team lost 22-9 to Cuesta College.


Myles Johnson (21) runs the ball against the defense of Los Angeles Valley College last Saturday night in Los Angeles. Johnson finished the game with 149 yards on 29 carries and one touchdown in a 17-0 victory, improving SMC’s record to 6-1 on the season.

wOMEN’S wATER POlO

fOOTbAll

Volume 104 Issue 08

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