Corsair The Santa Monica College
Volume C, Issue 1
AS president Tiffany Inabu looks to the year ahead
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S.W.A.T.’s all the fuss about?
By Miles Arnold Staff Writer
By Jonathan Bue Staff Writer
[See AS, page 3]
KCRW stalwart Will Lewis switches off his mike one last time With a lifetime in journalism behind him, Lewis brings to an end his illustrious career.
New AS president Inabu discusses the main focuses of her government this year.
The continued service of Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus system, a culture garden, more student involvement, and a new Associated Students website top the list of priorities for newly incumbent AS President, Tiffany Inabu. Currently, Santa Monica College students with an SMC ID and current AS sticker can ride the Big Blue Bus for free through the “Any Line Any Time” program. However, with a looming fee increase this semester, Inabu plans to work closely with the district and college to maintain the program she describes as beneficial. “I really want to make sure that it continues, and I want to make sure we have a good hold on what needs to get done for that,” said Inabu. Last year’s board also oversaw the establishment of a campus culture garden which will be located on the main campus near the Arts complex. The garden has been years in the making through past AS administrations. Inabu, who sat on the previous board as the Director of Budget Management, plans to see the garden come to a completion. The garden also comes at a time of increased sustainability efforts on campus. “We are one of the leaders in sustainability,” said Inabu. “And we want to keep that integrity.” Inabu points out that SMC’s
Wednesday, Septemeber 8, 2010
Sammy Soliman Corsair Banner wielding Erica Montelongo, a member of S.W.A.T. (Student Worker Action Team), protests on the campus quad. As a member of S.W.A.T., she was protesting the recent cuts made to public education.
By Ariana Masters Staff Writer On Tuesday, Aug. 31, Santa Monica College students made their feelings known about recent cuts to the California education funding by airing their grievances in a public protest that took place across the main college campus. Orchestrated by the Student Worker Action Team (S.W.A.T.), an organization actively opposed to further hikes in tuition costs, a small but vociferous band of protestors rallied against the recent cuts to student services, rising tuition fees and cuts to the numbers of classes offered across Californian campuses. “The reason that we’re all here is to get an education,” said George Gordillo, protest leader and political science student. “We’re trying to better ourselves and promote higher learning. But I feel, and we feel, that we are not given the best opportunity or
atmosphere to do so. “ Gordillo continued, “There should be more money spent on books, on hiring teachers and more classes should be opened up. Hopefully we will spread like wildfire.” S.W.A.T., whose inception was in response to the 2009 decision by the UC Regents to approve a 32 percent hike in tuition fees, have been active throughout a number of University campuses. As the start of the new fall semester, and with it a more urgent call for students to crash classes, they have taken the opportunity to spread their message to disenfranchised students. One of those was Maron Sanmartin, 19, and an electrical engineer major at SMC, who said, “I do have two classes, but that isn’t enough to fill up my roster to go to UCLA.” Sanmartin’s sentiments were echoed by fellow SMC student Angela Gelich. “We are students
trying to organize other students and workers in SMC and throughout LA to demand that our public education isn’t privatized and that we have a quality free education for all,” said Gelich Not all who came in contact with the small group were in agreement. One of those was Anthony Ortiz, an SMC student who loudly voiced his opposition to the content of S.W.A.T.’s argument. “The only I problem I have is that you guys are chanting ‘Education should be free,’” said Ortiz, “and I think it should not be free, but maybe should be cheaper. “ Ortiz continued, ”Look, like I’ve had to crash courses, but if you say it should be free, I don’t think so. Teachers need to be getting paid more and if we make going here free, then they will be getting paid, what, like thirty grand a year? That’s just not enough.” S.W.A.T. will continue their efforts at SMC with another protest scheduled in October.
After almost 33 years at KCRW, public radio legend Will Lewis has decided to call it quits. This comes nearly forty years after he began his tireless effort to transform southern California public radio, and KCRW in particular, into not only a local but national hub for various news, music and cultural programming. “We wanted to make public radio important”, said Lewis, “Listeners wanted current news stories and NPR was not broadcasting updated headlines.” During his earlier days in broadcasting he not only worked in radio but taughwt radio and television news at the University of Florida between 1958 and1963. During this time, his students would actually produce and anchor a nightly news television broadcast. After his stint at Florida he moved to Boston University where he taught broadcasting and served as the general manager at radio station WBUR Boston. In 1967, he and his fellow board members of National Educational Radio successfully lobbied Congress to include radio in the pending Public Television Act. Lewis and other board members of the National Association of Educational Broadcasters were then invited by President Johnson to witness the signing of the Public Broadcasting Act in the White House. Lewis had many high points during his career at KCRW, one
[See Lewis, page 3]
Students stumble into fall with a crash By Zuliema Alvarado Staff Writer
Valerie Serrano, a secondyear student at Santa Monica College, is on the road by 7:30 a.m. to be dropped off at college by 8:30 that morning. Despite her expectations, she nears the campus only to find herself stuck in traffic about four blocks away. “I expected there to be traffic the first day, but I didn’t expect to be stuck in traffic for 20 minutes without even moving an inch,” Serrano says, who leaves the car and decides it’s better, and faster, to get to school by foot if she wants to
make it to class on time. As Serrano walks into her classroom, she notices an excessive amount of students all hoping to “crash” the class. “It was hectic, more than half of the class was trying to crash,” Serrano says. August 30, marked the first day of classes for the Fall semester at Santa Monica College, but for many students, like Serrano, it also marked the first day of crowded classrooms, long lines and chaos. Martha Quiñones, a first year student at SMC, was able to enroll into all her classes, but not everyone was as lucky. “Some of my friends were trying to crash some classes with me.
Some, [who are] even in their second year, couldn’t get in,” Quiñones said. According to Quiñones, with rising tuition costs at CAL State and UC colleges, SMC was the place to go. She believes that with SMC being affordable for many students, it makes sense that in this current economy many of them choose community colleges for their further education, all the while saving money. “Some of my friends rushed here [to SMC] as a last resort,” Quinones said, keen to stress that some of her friends weren’t able to enroll in some classes. According to Jeff Shimizu,
[See Crash, page 3]
Albany Katz Corsair Santa Monica College students Raquel Wilson and Micaela Johnson stand in line at the Financial Aid Office on Sept. 2 . Wilson and Johnson said that they had been waiting in line for an hour and half.
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Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College
THIS WEEK
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Wednesday September ,
able of Contents S.W.A.T. Protests New AS Government KCRWʼs Lewis Retires Back to School
1 & 3
Opinion
Glen Beck Rally Mosque Intolerence
4
Lifestyle
Greek Fest Barfly A Taste of the World
5
Photo Story
LA County Fair
6 & 7
A&E
FYF Fest Bare Equality Movie Review: Going the Distance Cale Wilbanks Profile Indie Pop Duo
8 & 9
Sports
Weekly Professor Breakdown SMC Football Manny Ramirez
10 & 11
Artist Spotlight: Victoria Greenwood
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News
Kasey Stokes Contributer Under the streets of downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood and Western Metro Station Tunnel is an alternative form of transportation for the many people in L.A.
More news @ thecorsaironline.com Is body image still a growing problem for college women? By Alexandra Lazar The negative feelings some women have about their bodies is not a new concern, but it seems to be a problem that’s becoming less publicized and more overlooked. Alexander Lazar takes a closer look at an issue that still plagues women, especially during their college years.
Local gigs give aspiring stars a place to shine By Danny Henson The UnUrban Coffee House and Kulak’s Woodshed are local businesses that offer open mic nights in two completely different environments to provide ambitious singers and songwriters a choice of where they’d like to make their big break.
Exhibit
NEWS
Wednesday September ,
Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College
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Students suffer as need for classes intensifies [Crash, from page 1]
they do a lottery. If you’re lucky, you’ll get in,” Martinez said, vice president of academic affairs elaborating on how he managed at SMC, as of the second day to get add codes. He is currently of the fall semester, there were enrolled in three classes, despite 31,904 students enrolled, with the fact that he couldn’t add an a decrease of 1,448 students in advertising class, which could comparison to Fall 2009. He potentially adversely affect his added that the number of classes hopes of soon graduating. offered has decreased by 2.3 While students seem to be the percent since fall 2009. ultimate target of the current Students suffering from these enrollment situation, professors cuts include Cynthia Johnson too are feeling the strain. Laura and Adrian Martinez. Johnson, Campbell, an English professor a UC Davis at SMC, said, student, is “I’ve never “Some teachers make at SMC this seen it this bad. s e m e s t e r you write your name I was shocked after being down and then they when I would dismissed walk onto from the UC do a lottery. If you’re the quad and campus as the lucky you get in.” see so many result of not -Adrian Martinez students.” passing an Campbell English class. believes that According to Johnson, she will with so many students trying to be able to return to Davis once “crash,” professors are put in a she completes the English class at difficult situation when it comes SMC. “I have nine English classes to giving out add codes. Campbell that I’m going to try to crash, lets crashing students who arrive even a weekend class. Hopefully early and on time participate in I get lucky,” Johnson said. a lottery. All others are then left Martinez, a second year student with the only option of finding at SMC majoring in graphic another class. design/advertising, was able Simon Balm, an Astronomy to enroll into one class. He has and Chemistry professor at SMC, tried to “crash” three classes, said, “If you compare SMC to successfully enrolling in two. other colleges, we’re actually “Some teachers make you not doing so bad. Colleges like write your name down and then West LA have actually cut some
Jessica Mendoza Corsair Students crowd outside of clasroom 31 in the math complex hoping to ctrash the class. If chosen in the lottery, the prize will be a much sought after add code.
semesters like winter or summer sessions. Although there is a cut in classes, we always run semesters.” According to Balm, add codes are limited with the safety of the students in mind. A crowded room could potentially
KCRW’s Lewis retires after 33 years [Lewis, from page 1] of which occ-
urred in 1994 during the Los Angeles riots. At the time he was primarily living at the station, sleeping in a trailer out in the back because they did not have enough people on staff. Lewis recalled the event by saying, “We had permission from the local TV stations as well as CNN to use their coverage of the riots, so we would sit and broadcast in front of this giant monitor, it had about twelve different screens on it, each one with a local broadcast.” Lewis added, “we would describe the scene to the listeners and then play the broadcast audio from the local station. One evening, around midnight while on the air, I got a call from a doctor over at the Martin Luther King medical center, he told me that all the power had gone out. They had no TV and the only way he was able to get information and updates on the situations around the city were through KCRW.” Another moment that undoubtedly stood out to Lewis occurred during the first fundraiser that raised over a million dollars
for KCRW. “That was something special” Lewis said, “We couldn’t believe it. I definitely had a tear in my eye after that one.” In January of this year he was elected president of the Los Angeles Press Club, which recently held its 52nd Annual Southern California Journalism Awards in the crystal ballroom at the historic Biltmore Hotel here in LA. Actor Sean Penn presented the President’s Award for overall media impact to CNN’s Anderson Cooper, while NPR’s very own senior foreign correspondent Anne Garrels received the Daniel Pearl Award for Courage and Integrity in Journalism from the slain journalists father Judea Pearl. When I asked him how he was taking to his new role as president he commented by saying, “It’s very rewarding”. As president, he hopes to hold more events that recognize the online press community as well as college newspapers. He will continue to serve as media consultant to SMC.
New term, new AS government [AS, from page 1]
efforts include investing in recycled paper, a “greening” of offices, and working closely with community programs such as Sustainable Works and the Center for Environmental and Urban studies. Plans for more club events and closer collaboration between departments and student clubs were also emphasized. The AS plans to work with SMC’s Alumni Association on a homecoming week to heighten school spirit on campus. Another goal for Inabu is to increase AS membership with membership drives and activities to bring awareness to the AS and potential benefits. Much of the past criticism the AS has received surrounds the lack of student awareness concerning the board. Inabu
pointed out how some students do not know that the AS helps sponsor the Big Blue Bus, and that students can even receive discounted movie tickets through the AS. Despite having a currently vacant Director of Publicity chair, Inabu hopes that a new website will help make it easier for students to keep informed. “The website is definitely a high-high priority to get done,” said Inabu. “Hopefully, before the end of the month.” Inabu further described how her administration wants to hear the concerns of the student body. “We do hope that students will continue to support the Associated Students because we do have the students’ special interests at heart.”
be hazardous if a fire or an earthquake were to occur. As for Balm’s adding policy, he usually waits until the second week of term before he adds new students - in case some decide to drop. According to Balm, this gives students a better opportunity of
getting into the class. For many students, the hunt for a class has become similar to the lottery. If they are not lucky enough to get into a class, they must press their luck elsewhere in hopes of winning that lucky number: the add code.
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OPINION
Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College
Wednesday September ,
MLK had a dream, Beck is a nightmare
Jon Bue Corsair
By Khalil Grier Staff Writer On Saturday, Aug. 28, Fox News commentator, Glenn Beck, hosted a rally on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. This date just so happened to be the 47th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream” speech. Beck and company touted the rally as a heartfelt and sincere effort to get America back to its core values. But it does beg
the question, what exactly is it about America that needs to be restored? Beck, who often takes an overzealous approach when disclosing his right wing beliefs and “patriotic” ideology, is never one to steer clear of controversy. Beck has been very vocal in his opposition to illegal immigration and his belief that the president is racist towards white people. This seems a bit hard to believe, however, given that his white
mother and grandmother raised Obama. In true Glenn Beck fashion, it seems that this “Restoring Honor” rally was nothing more than another platform from which to brainwash Americans into believing their country is in a perilous state of turmoil. During Beck’s address, some of his key points included statements such as, “We are a country that is headed toward socialism, totalitarianism, beyond your wildest
imagination,” and my personal favorite, “The president is a Marxist... who is setting up a class system.” While Beck made many bold claims throughout his speech, the conservative broadcaster offered little to no evidence to support his accusations. Attendance estimates were widely varied, ranging from an underwhelming 87,000 to well over 600,000, depending on the source. Fox, Beck’s employer, provided the most comprehensive media coverage of the event. Personally, I found this rally to be extremely offensive. Merely the title, “Restoring Honor to America”, is a direct blow to the Obama administration. In such a historic time we should be embracing the direction America is headed in, rather than attempting to undermine it. It seems the only thing that Beck is attempting to restore is white supremacy. The fact that this rally was held on the anniversary of MLK’s most notable speech means absolutely nothing to Beck, because as he himself stated, “I had no idea August 28 was the day of the MLK speech when we booked it... I’m sorry, media, that I forgot the, oh, so important detail of the date.”
Really it should come as no surprise that Glenn Beck is oblivious to the one of the most important moments in the history of the civil rights movement. Gun-slinging hockey mom, 2008 Republican vice presidential candidate and former Alaska governor, Sarah Palin also attended the rally and offered up a few more of her wise words, stating, “We are locked and loaded, ready to take our country back.” But who are we? And take our country back from what exactly? The fact is that Palin and Beck represent a small minority on the far right and have aligned themselves with conservative fringe groups and like-minded tea-baggers. Beck, Palin and the Tea Party of which they embrace, represent the archaic ideals of old, white America. They are a throwback to a time when white men ruled the land while women and people of different ethnic backgrounds were kept in the shadows. Plain and simple, Beck’s rally was a malicious attempt to scare America into submission. It was a spectacle of rambling contradictions and ignorance. Entertaining yes, informative no.
America: no longer the Mecca of tolerance By Camille Yona Contributor The controversy over whether a community has the right to reject the building of religious centers, particularly mosques, is not a new issue. Despite recent attention the topic has garnered from the debate over the erection of the Cordoba House Mosque, located dangerously close to Ground 0, the friction and conflict of interest can be seen nationwide. According to a recent poll conducted by Quinnipiac University, 52 percent of New Yorkers oppose the building of the mosque, with reasonable justification. The residents who voted against the building feel as if the building will serve as a greater symbol and a painful reminder of the thousands of lives lost nearly nine years ago as a result of
the terrorist attacks on 9/11. Clear across the country, in Temecula, California, this exact issue is being debated. However, in this case, those against building the mosque cannot cite terrorist attacks or “unhealed wounds” to justify their claims. Instead, the residents of Southwest County, where Temecula is located, say that congestion and traffic is among the reasons for their vehement opposition. According to Aaron Claverie, of The Californian, the justification comes from the possibility of “traffic problems that could arise at the corner of Calle Medusa and Nicolas Road.” To many, these excuses do not seem a sufficient enough cause to deny the construction of what could become a center of faith and religion for Muslim-Americans in southern California.
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Munira Syeda, communications manager for the Council on AmericanIslamic Relations in Los Angeles, feels as if this dispute has been directed exclusively and largely at the Muslim community. “At this particular time in America, there is an organized effort by some people to stop building mosques. This has happened to other minorities in the past- such as the Jews and the Quakers, but that was several centuries ago,” said Syeda. Though she is right in her belief that “any American should be allowed to build a house of worship as long as its legal and they’re following the rules and regulation,” Syeda fails to recognize the fact that this aversion is a continuing trend for other religions as well. For Rabbi Morley Feinstein, of the University Synagogue
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in Brentwood, Calif., the issue hits very close to home. “My ancestors were denied the rights of the majority when they came to this country,” he said, reflecting on a past of racism and unjust discrimination in a country where pride is routed in fairness and equality. “In fact, when UniSyn applied for a permit to build in 1954, it was denied by the city of Brentwood.” In Mecca, which is considered the holiest site for followers of Islam, there is not a single church for Christians to worship. The difference is, however, the United States prides itself on a culture of tolerance, freedom and equal rights. Immigrants continually flock to the US in search of religious and social freedom. The denial of the right to build a mosque, though technically protected under the first amendment,
Reporters Alessandra Catanese, Alfredo Luna, Althea Anderson, Anthony Pantoja, Astrid le Noine, Bryn Woznicki, Carly Gillis, Christian Nussey, Danyale Kotur, David Carranza, David Dolmage, Emil Norlen, Eric Tipton, Farhan Ali, Jorge Valdovinos, Jung Shim, Linda Konde, Lyndsay Smith, Marley St. John, Michael Mendoza, Michael Zielinski, Monique Michaels, Nicole Ritter, Sal Guerra, Sammy Soliman, Sean Carpenter, Sean Mazzapica,
Photographers Alessandra Catanese, Alfredo Luna, Althea Anderson, Anthony Pantoja, Astrid le Noine, Bryn Woznicki, Carly Gillis, Christian Nussey, Danyale Kotur, David Carranza, David Dolmage, Emil Norlen, Eric Tipton, Farhan Ali,
reflects a personal enmity of the American public, towards Islam. No matter who exemplifies this feeling, including former speaker of the house Newt Gingrich, this grudge that some hold against Muslims, even MuslimAmericans, is pure racism. Despite animosity from the thousands of protestors who continue to shoot down the prospect of building a mosque near Ground Zero, Temecula, Cornona, Rowland Heights, and numerous other cities across the nation, Usman Madha, the Director of Administration and PR at King Farhad Mosque in Culver City, says he can empathize with the opposition. “I understand the feeling that some people cannot let go of what they lost. I understand the wounds are still fresh, let time heal.” But, is time really the problem?
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Wednesday September ,
LIFESTYLE
My big, fat Greek summer abroad
Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College
Barfly By John Stapleton IV Web Editor
Stephanie Forshee Corsair In ancient times, thousands of people would gather to ask the prophetess Oracle questions about the future. To better understand this tradition, student Bliss Franco received questions from students in a mock session similar to those that took place hundreds of years ago on those same grounds.
By Stephanie Forshee Staff Writer Greek tradition revolves around celebrating family, so why would a study abroad program to Greece be any different? The group of SMC students that attended the summer 2010 study abroad trip to Greece lived, ate, studied, and traveled in the ravishing country of Greece together as just that: a family. Referred to by some as “Real World Athens 2010,” the trip panned out to be all too similar to that depiction. A group of 22 students, myself included, and two SMC professors Eleni Hioureas and Jim Stramel took on three weeks abroad in a country steeped in a rich culture and history that was comprehensively explored. Fittingly, we studied Literature Analysis and Composition with Hioureas and Early Philosophers with Stramel. For our benefit, they included all things Greek in the teachings: mythology, ancient Greek philosophy,
ancient Greek plays, the country’s history, and current events. In addition to the academic knowledge that the professors held about Greece’s history and culture, their experience went beyond the books. A native to Greece, Hioureas visits the country every couple of years. “I love the Mediterranean climate and the food, and the ancient sights and the scenery are amazing,” she said. Allowing merely half a day of rest following an entire day of traveling from LAX to Athens, the group was put to the test. With temperatures reaching well over 100 degrees, our first week consisted of waking up at 8 a.m. for four-hour tours of ancient ruins and other popular sites with tour guide Konstantina Statho. “It is always nice for me to work with colleges or universities. I get to learn many things and it is always nice to have people very close to your culture,” says Statho. We soaked up the sun on our travels to the Parthenon,
the National Archaeological Museum, Socrates’ prison cell, and the Temple of Zeus. After each tour we ate lunch and attended five hours of class in our hotel conference room. In no other setting would you roll out of bed and ride the elevator down to your classroom with wet hair wearing pajamas and slippers. Thanks to Hioureas’ connections in Greece, our group was able to branch out to more than just the touristy route. “[Professor Hioureas] took us to villages and [taught] us dances so we weren’t just seeing the culture, she was involving her students in everything that was happening,” said student Bliss Franco. During the weeks and weekends our free time was spent anywhere from the beaches of Aegina, which are essentially small strips of sand along its pebble-lined coast, to the mountainous town of Delphi. We participated in a mock race on the grounds of the
Food Theme, I am going to cook a new ethnic recipe each week, reporting back to you on my success or even failure. Do you want to cook with me? Great, I’m buying! Do you have an incredible traditional family dish that will make me weep it’s so delicious? Come find me in the newsroom, I’ll bring the tissues. To start this series off, I went Jamaican this week, with an excellent Curried Chicken and Fried Plantains recipe from SMC student Nahalia Samuels. This traditional Jamaican dish took about an hour to make and had an awesome kick of spice when it was finished. The recipe may seem complicated, but aside from a lot of chopping, its fairly easy to make. So sharpen your knives and get out your measuring cups, its time to cook!
INGREDIENTS
first Olympic games, and after reading Aristophanes’ The Acharnians in class we traveled to the ancient Greek theatre, Epidaurus to witness the spectacular mountain backdrop at sunset. We spent our final week in the seaside town of Nafplion in a hotel on the water. The week there was relaxing and spent visiting beaches, working on final projects, and studying for exams. If we were going to spend hours per day studying regardless, I’m thankful we had the opportunity to do so near a breathtaking sea. “There are so many exciting opportunities abroad, and traveling will change your life and will change the way that you think,” says Hioureas. “I know that it is expensive to travel, but well worth the cost. People don’t realize how valuable it is until they actually go.” Nothing and no one can take away what the SMC group experienced, if only for three weeks in the “Real World Athens 2010.” Opa!
We grew up loving treasure maps because they present two things we are intrinsically enthralled with: the promise of wealth, and the promise of adventure. For a grown-up treasure hunt that satisfies your fundamental need for both, The Association marks the spot. This literally underground social target tops the list for those who dig the downtown scene – if you can find it. Unlike its competitors, there are no glaring neon lights to direct you to its location. There are no billboards. There is no fancy sign. As co-owner McCray Miller puts it, “There is no face of the bar. It just is what it is, and that’s what’s special about it: You kind of have to know to know. “ But once you know, it’s evident how a bar with such little advertising has such a prominent reputation. The entrance is a single black door, and it opens into a surprisingly spacious lounge scene, filled with sprawling leather couches bathed in a dim amber glow. It is, in a word, subtle. What this bar lacks in crowds and illumination, it makes up for with absolutely splendid service, and this where The Association earns is lauded reputation. The personable bartenders don’t merely pour your drink, they orchestrate a ceremony for your preferred poison, explaining the importance of the ingredients and revealing the histories behind your favorite cocktails. After being presented with a delightful French 75 (and a encyclopedia-like explanation of its origins), bartender Nick Vitulli added, “Yeah, when you know the story, it doesn’t look so girly does it?” But the entertainment is no substitute for execution, as the drinks were incredibly wellconstructed – not to mention affordable. In fact, the bar’s “Social Hour” offers a complete five-dollar cocktail menu. All of this affordable indulgence in an exclusive downtown bar that actually had available seats, a sophisticated food menu, and gushing with speakeasy-esque class? This hidden treasure is most certainly worth the hunt.
A Taste of the World: Curried Chicken & Fried Plantains By Alessandra Catanese Staff Writer You may have seen me out in the quad last week with a sign saying “Come talk to me about food!” You may have even walked right passed me as I yelled, “Cook with me! Give me your recipes!” And you probably thought I was totally insane. I’m not actually insane, rather, like many students at SMC, I’m just hungry. I love food so much, I think I might be capable of eating more than my actual body weight. The only thing I love as much as food is cooking it. Sure, I could walk down the street and buy something for cheap, but where’s the fun in that? This semester, with inspiration from SMC’s Global Citizenship
Curried Chicken: 6 pieces of skinless chicken 1 lemon 1 sweet white onion 1 sweet brown onion 1 green pepper (core to remove seeds) 3 garlic cloves 1 cup of white flour 2 tbsp curry powder 1/4 tsp white pepper 1/4 tsp seasoning salt 2 cups of water 1/2 cup vegetable oil Plantains: 2 ripe plantains 1/4 cup vegetable oil For the full recipe and video of Ale cooking the dish, visit TheCorsairOnline.com.
Sharon Fox Corsair Plantains, a firmer and less sweet relative of bananas, are a common ingredient in Jamaican recipes as they are widely grown in tropical areas.
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Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College
P H O T O S T O RY
Wednesday September .
The Los Angeles County Fair
After a long day of excitment at the Los Angeles County Fair, the sun sets behind the big ferris wheel in Pomonca, Calif. on Sept. 5.
Sammy Soliman Corsair
A group poses with the pirate cut-out .
Sammy Soliman Corsair
88th Annual Fair draws throngs on Labor Day weekend opening. By Sammy Soliman
T
he 2010 Los Angeles County Fair is finally here. Walking through the park, all of your senses are instantly bombarded with loud music and sounds coming from every direction. Bright colorful signs in all shapes and sizes lead you through the park and as you walk past each vender, the constant change of aroma from the many different types of foods lets you know you’re in for a very good time. You will find adults taking a much-needed vacation from a long stress filled workweek to act like a little kid again. More than usual, the children wore a rather gleeful smile that transforms a few short hours at the fair, to a lifetime of memories. The LA County Fair will be at the Fairplex in Pomona till Oct. 3.
Sammy Soliman Corsair (above) Children and adults await their turn to go on the Thunderbolt ride. (left) Mason Garuby climbs a rock wall while his father watches from below.
Sammy Soliman Corsair
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A&E
Corsair Newspaper Santa Monica College
Wednesday September ,
Michelle Ponder Corsair
Cale Wilbanks poses in front of his photography, at his exhibit inside The Rumor Mill.
Cale Wilbanks reflects on the future of art and photography By Sarah McIntosh Staff Writer Some say art is dead, and that today we are bombarded with digital images that mean nothing. But what if digital photography could be taught by the film photography that came before them? “Cale Wilbanks: Photography before the Digital Revolution,” an art exhibit, showcased 35mm shot photography, made between 1990 and 2000. Some works shown at The Rumor Mill in Los Angeles, California, hadn’t been seen in 20 years. A live performance by Bumtech, a rock duo made up
of Sharon Schloss and John Walterscheid, was a perfect complement to Wilbanks’ art. The chill, strange, sound of eclectic keyboard and soft drumbeats added to the relaxed mood, as people roamed around the intimate café talking among themselves about Wilbanks’ art. Many stood in contemplation over his pieces. “His work is more like art rather than photography,” Martin Charles, contributing printer, said. “We printed several copies before the life-size photos were just right. Photography today isn’t art, but his is.” Wilbanks considers his art to be a showcase of the impact of
life size 35mm photographs. “It isn’t a rebellion against the new digital medium. Digital today is very disposable, very throw away. My number one role as a photographer is to create never before seen works,” Wilbanks said. At the age of 11, Wilbanks began staging his “Star Wars” figurines like a band and photographed them. Then he moved on to female dolls with hair dyed various colors and cut in various styles. But as he grew, he went on to take photographs of actual live bands, and has done fashion work with real models. Wilbanks reflected on his early childhood years saying,
“I was making great mistakes.” These great mistakes seemed to blend into his showcase, especially seen in his piece titled “Rubin.” It is a deep red portrait of a man inhaling a cigarette, his face covered in red light. Wilbanks captured the burning and the expression of pure relaxation at the precise moment. Wilbanks’ friend, who wasn’t even supposed to show up that day, created another perfect accident. “My neighbor came up to me and said, ‘I hate smoking but I love that photograph,’” Wilbanks said. This piece went on to become published and sold at a charity action. Wilbanks doesn’t like to talk
about the technical aspect of his art. “You don’t ask a painter what brushes they used, so why talk about lenses,” he said. Wilbanks’ art leaves the interpretation up to the viewer; one makes their own story, one sees what they want to see and no specific ideal is jammed into one’s head, skewing the image altogether. Wilbanks now has taken up a new medium, film, and is more concentrated on that at the moment. However, he does have some advice for the digital photography generation: “Think. Think about if you need that photo or not. Show the truth in what you’re shooting.”
Jenny & Johnny: the new dynamic duo in indie pop The real-life musical couple join together and create romance in their new album, “I’m Having Fun Now.” By Cyndi Gomez Staff Writer If one were to put together a CD for their sweetheart, it would most likely have a little bit of sugar, a little bit of spice, and everything nice. Well, that is exactly what Jonathan Rice and Jenny Lewis have done. The candid voice that fronts Rilo Kiley (Lewis) and the Indie songwriter (Rice) have created a bright, decadent compilation that characterizes the love these two alternative songbirds share for one another. “I’m Having Fun Now” not only describes the emotions in an ordinary relationship, but the witticism, anguish, and affection this couple shares. The album overall is prettier and brighter than most alternative pop of today, but is still rough around the edges. Equally strong vocally, both Lewis and Rice sing together throughout the album. Rice’s voice provides a warm, soothing touch in “Scissor Runner,” while Lewis balances it out by sounding much like she’s done in previous efforts. The songwriting is not complex or anything out of the ordinary, but the simplicity the duo illustrates proves that they are the perfect pair to write catchy hooks. The track that really features Lewis’ skills is “My Pet Snake.” The Californiainspired song demonstrates Lewis’ lively spirit and sums up the positive attitude that contributed to the tune. “Straight Edge of the Blade” once again exhibits the carefree Jenny Lewis that fans know
and love. The song is edgy, yet her charisma outshines her performance. Rice meanwhile, takes the lead role in “Animal” with his devilish, edgy delivery. Nevertheless, the playfulness that transmits through Lewis’ vocals in the chorus exhibits a confidence in their compatibility. Songs that do not highlight the extraordinary moments but fit in just perfectly are “Switchblade,” “Just like Zeus,” and “Slavedriver.” For those who are trying to find the album’s highlight, “Committed” is the song on which to focus. The mellifluous “New York Cartoon” also emphasizes the unison that both vocalists endure. Those who loved Lewis’ country tendencies of the past, such as “White Rabbit” and “Acid Tongue,” will see that “I’m Having Fun Now” demonstrates that she can really carry a solid pop tune that would be perfect for long-drive singa-longs. Jonathan Rice assisted Lewis with producing the much-appreciated “Acid Tongue,” and now the dynamic duo have embarked on a lovelier fortyminute project with class. Although the overall orchestration and musical appeal of the album is not the most innovative in music history, the catchy harmonies between the vocals are perfectly balanced. What listeners will get out of this album most is the passion that clearly shines through every song. Some songs are edgy; others are mellow and warm. However, if there were a soundtrack to someone’s perfect love story, “I’m Having Fun Now” would most likely be it.
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Spotlight shines on laughs, lines and loud music at FYF Fest By Cyndi Gomez Staff Writer The incomparable allages FYF Fest returned on Saturday, Sept. 4, at the Los Angeles State Historic Park with the best lineup thus far. With roughly 20,000 attendees, the great acts from the bill proved why so many people were excited to be part of the end of summer’s most intriguing lineup in the Los Angeles scene. Doors opened promptly at 11:30 and fans immediately gathered at the Oak Stage which featured first band of the day, Magic Kids. Over at the Sequoia Stage, The Goat sparked enthusiasm with “Billy,” Ooh Weird,” and “Tantalizing,” from their latest effort. Trying to escape the heat, many gathered at the FYF Comedy Tent by the Oaks Stage at 2 p.m. for the first forty-five minute comedy show of the day, hosted by Mike Burns. Taking a break from their almost once-a-week appearance on the Chelsea Lately show, The Sklar brothers were accompanied with fellow comics Matt Dwyer, Matt Braunger, Joselyn Hughes, and Erik Charles Nielsen. The comedy tent only went on for another three hours or so, but
Jarrad Rosson Corsair Brody Stevens (The Hangover, Sarah Silverman’s Jesus is Magic) jumps the stage to get up close and personal with his fans.
fans were very appreciative for the contribution. One of the bands that has been rapidly gaining popularity recently, Local Natives, was riding as high as it ever has. Thanks to the success of their latest effort, “Gorilla Manor,” which broke into the Billboard’s Top 200 late last year, the Silverlake natives seemed determined to prove that their artistic Indie influences run deep.
With two sold out shows coming up in a couple of weeks, a lot of people were extremely delighted to see that the event dedicated a slot to them. “Yeah, I was so bummed that I couldn’t get tickets to their Henry Fonda show, but I’m beyond excited to see them tonight,” said Michael Ramirez. As the heat started diminishing, people became more pumped as
they welcomed actor Ryan Gosling’s new band, Dead Man’s Bones, at the Redwood Stage. Performing under the alias “Baby Goose,” Gosling and friend/band-mate Zach Shields absorbed the crowd’s attention. Over at the Sequoia Stage, the lyrical and minimalist band Washed Out played their half-hour set. The sun finally went down as fans obliged for experimental Philadelphia band, Man Man.
Known for their exuberant live performances, lead singer Honus Honus, repeatedly invited audience members to sing along with him. Meanwhile things got a little hardcore over at the Oak Stage around 9:30 when stoner doom metal band Sleep demonstrated why they might still be the ultimate stoner rock band of not only early 1990s, but of today. Getting back together last May after an eleven-year hiatus, Sleep reminded fans that they can still rock hard. “I came last year just because of all the Indie bands who don’t get that much recognition in LA,” said Jessica Zuniga, “but I am happy that it’s even more diverse this time around with a band like Sleep.” After a long day of the most diverse music L.A. has experienced for a while, headliners The Rapture convinced many that they still can throw down disco jams. Panda Bear also held down for their electronica-enabled experimentation. Despite the heat that had some people feeling a little fussy, at the end of the day everyone left home happy. Finally, Los Angeles can host a music festival that has everything from punk, to hardcore, to things that are completely indescribable.
Women bare all for equality Barrymore and Long go the “Distance” in new comedy By Ayla Pound Staff Writer
On August 22, over 200 people paraded down the Venice Beach Boardwalk protesting the law that prohibits women in Los Angeles from going bare-chested in areas where men are allowed. It was the third protest of its kind at Venice Beach, and among the protestors were over two dozen women who decided to march topless. They used red tape and fake latex nipples to cover their own, ultimately following all of the guidelines of the law. The rally, organized by the group GoTopless, encouraged the public to join in and help lift the ban on topless laws across the country. GoTopless rallies occurred in cities across the country throughout the month of April, including New York, Florida, and Colorado. According to Nadine Gary, the GoTopless director, Venice Beach had the largest turnout of any rally that has ever occurred. Women of all ages decided to parade freely down the boardwalk, all uniting to fight against the laws that prohibit a woman from revealing her chest in public. GoTopless is determined to change the law, even if that means going all the way to the Supreme Court to do so. They are blazing the way by using the constitution as a prime example of [their] [women’s] given rights as Americans. “That’s what the constitution says, equality to have the option. The constitution is not based purely on morality,” says Gary. She feels strongly that things will be changed in the near future, and the unfair arrests of topless women will come to a screeching halt. “As long as men can be topless, constitutionally women should have the same right, or men should also be forced to wear something hiding their chest” stated Rael Maitreya, founder of GoTopless.org.
They chose the month of August to hold the protest to correlate with the anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which allowed women the right to vote. “This is like trying to figure out the difference between what is art and what is pornography. It’s the same kind of issue. What is decent and what’s not decent. I don’t know that I personally have enough experience to decide that, but I think in this country democracy will rule out,” says first year SMC student Elise Becker. “It is becoming more and more outdated and I think people are going to start pursuing more progressive ways of life.” There were many supporters at the event, including men who decided to wear red bikini tops to show their support. Despite the massive amount of support that was shown at the event, protestors also decided to make an appearance, including a group from the Bible Believers church in Los Angeles. SMC student Gal Avraham believes that “the difference between men not wearing a shirt and women not wearing a shirt is that for a woman not to be wearing a shirt is not appropriate. There are a lot of kids and people at Venice Beach.” Amidst the attempt to change the law, GoTopless emphasizes that it is important to help women understand that they should not be ashamed of their breasts. They stress the fact that men have the power to control themselves when confronted with the sight of a woman’s breasts out in public. “There is something wrong about the way we feel about our bodies. This guilt, it’s not fair and it’s not good for the mind,” says Nadine Gary. Will the sight of numerous topless women soon be gracing beaches? If Gary has her way, the near future will hold this and much more, for “the freer you feel in your body, the more peace in the world. Because ultimately, oppression leads to aggression.”
By Michael Santana Staff Writer
equally exude a genuine down-toearth persona. You root for them as a couple, you want to see them together, Dry humping, an awkwardly you think to yourself somewhere in hilarious attempt at phone sex, and the almost two-hour runtime, “Why a superb cast makes “Going the aren’t they allowed to see each other Distance” an enjoyable movie. more!” After meeting one night at a Their careers and finances play a bar in New York City, Erin (Drew factor in keeping them apart. Since Barrymore) and Garrett (Justin they’re both not making much money, Long) hook up and fall in love soon they can’t afford to fly to one another after. The problem however, is during the costly holiday season. It’s that she’s only in New York for an that lack of spending time together internship with a newspaper and will that undoubtedly puts a strain in the return home to San Francisco in six relationship, but you want to watch to weeks. Even on opposite ends of the see just what happens next. country, Erin and The issue of their Garrett are willing financial situations to do all it takes to With Long’s boyish has a relatable tone, make the distance a looks and Barrymore’s given the present day minor factor in their She works quirky charm, they economy. relationship. for a newspaper and exude a wants to become “Going the equally Distance” doesn’t genuine down-to- a reporter, facing break the generic the challenge of no mold of the romantic earth persona. available jobs within comedy with the the profession. She happily-ever-after lives with her sister ending you expect. The two characters, (Applegate), her sister’s husband however, corroborate the story line and hyper daughter, and waits tables with charm and appeal. Meanwhile, to make ends meet. Meanwhile, the supporting cast of the male best Garrett is in a low-level job within friends (Jason Sudeikis, Charlie Day) the recording industry. What ensues and Erin’s older sister (Christina given its plot line and impediments Applegate) display enough biting wit faced throughout make the movie the and laugh-out-loud moments to make delight it is. the film more notable than any of its This comedy undoubtedly brings more recent counterparts within the in big laughs and it’s a decent choice rom-com genre. for a date night or to watch with a What makes the characters likeable few friends. Bottom line, if you have is you get the impression they aren’t a couple free hours and want a few much different off-screen than they laughs, yes, go the distance necessary are on. With Long’s boyish looks to a movie theater near you and watch and Barrymore’s quirky charm, they “Going the Distance.”
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Weekly Professor Breakdown: Kofi Yankey his hobby and passion. Yankey graduated San Diego State with a degree in Economics; he was able to find a working balance between excellence in the classroom and excellence on the court. Although never having the opportunity to play competitive college volleyball, Yankey earned a name for himself on his own. His willingness to learn and hard work ethic earned the respect of his volleyball peers. He played in numerous pick up games, outdoors with doubles and indoors with a full team of six. Yankey recalls one of his opponents telling his teammate, “don’t dink the ball to Kofi, Kofi gets everything.” Yankey defines himself by his work ethic, on the court and in the classroom. He spent many years as a volleyball coach for San Diego City College and head coaching at San Diego High School. Reminiscing on these years brought a huge smile to Yankey’s face. These were the years he was able to share his passion and knowledge with others. One highlight of his career was taking the inexperienced group of boys at San Diego High School and finishing the season with a 12-1 record. “There was nothing like seeing the excitement and joy on the boys faces after their first win,” Yankey remarked, still beaming. Yankey’s father taught him to never give up by telling him that “perseverance never fails.” He applied this phrase to his education, his playing, his coaching, and now is teaching his students the same message. He encourages his students to give their best and his players
to play their best, regardless of the grade, regardless of the score. Yankey stated, “There is no shame in losing, only shame in giving up.” He learned the most about volleyball when he deconstructed the opponent to see what elements he was working against; he said he applies the same methods to each one of his classes. Each semester he deconstructs the class as a whole and tries to piece everyone and everything back together so he can learn how to make a successful connection by understanding how each student and class operates. Success came for Yankey through his relentless diligence, and he hopes his students all find the same. He prides himself on knowing his students individually so that each one becomes more than a face, more than a voice and more than another test score. He believes his greatest legacy left with his players is the sheer enjoyment of playing the game, not to play for the overall score but for each little victory and accomplishment that takes place in the overall match. It is not the grade or outcome that matters, it is the determination and the unwillingness to give up that makes a person great. Yankey encourages his students to take that chance, give full effort so that you may wear your name with pride. He did not have endless opportunity, he did not have endless finances; what Yankey had far outreaches anything tangible; he had passion and he had commitment. It is these two qualities that brought Yankey to his greatness.
was a change in character, as Manny reclaimed the spotlight and his ego inflated to the point where he saw himself as bigger than the Dodgers and the sport. The entire process of resigning Ramirez in the following 2009 season grew into a spectacle that dragged out over the course of the off-season, prohibiting the squad from addressing other team needs until he was finally given an over-paying contract worth 45-million dollars for two years. Instead of Jhosef Hern Corsair retaining a “boys in blue” on his back in the franchise player who could be last 61 games of the 2008 season a cornerstone for the franchise by hitting .410 with 21 home runs for years to come, the Dodgers and 63 RBIs. watched their investment fail, as However, after that point there Ramirez was slapped with a 50-
game suspension for violating MLB’s substance abuse policy in 2009. Amid promises of a productive return after the suspension, Ramirez responded by lowering his batting average from .348 to .290 by the end of the season. It’s bad enough that the Dodgers could have obtained productive hitters like Adam Dunn or Bobby Abreu instead of Manny in the 2009 off-season. But salt hit the wound when the Dodgers look back on not having enough money to resign dependable second baseman Orlando Hudson or speedy outfielder Juan Pierreboth of whom are helping their respective teams in the heat of a playoff race this year. This brings us to present-day Dodgertown, a place where Ramirez’s signature lackluster outfield play is absent and his jokes no longer echo off the clubhouse walls. Ramirez now dawns a White Sox uniform after the Dodgers sent him and the rest of his contract to Chicago. In the end, the Dodgers have lost out on $20 million for a lost season from their once-prized outfielder, and Ramirez is still unfazed by this entire process.
Albany Katz Corsair Professor Kofi Yankey’s athletic upbringing in Ghana provided him with the fundamentals that he uses to teach his classes.
By Stephanie Sommer Staff Writer It is easy to forget that each professor is more than a face, more than a voice and more than a required curriculum, but when broken down each professor has a history and a story that brought each one to their current place. Ever wonder who your professor is outside of lecture, where
they came from or what their hobbies may be? Statistics and Economics professor Kofi Yankey was born and raised in Ghana where he attended one of the most prestigious secondary schools, Achimoto, and where he found his passion for sports. Although his family always encouraged academics first, Yankey found himself engulfed in all athletics offered. From
field hockey to track and field, he could rally with the best using his 40-inch vertical and amazing speed. Although he loved all sports, volleyball was his passion. Weekly tournaments and countless hours on the outdoor courts of Ghana is where he developed his skills and matured. In his teen years Yankey and his family moved to San Diego, where he continued to pursue
into a game-ending ejection after not agreeing with the first called strike. Allow me to reiterate this point; knowing that this might be his last at-bat with the Dodgers, Ramirez’s actions diminished the Dodgers’ chance of a win rather than try and go out with a bang, a classless act that even Lou Piniella might think twice committing. Had it been a called strikeout that ended the inning, the aftertaste would have been different, but in my eyes I saw a guy who had already thrown in the towel on his team and his future with it. But really the team should have seen this attitude shift coming when Ramirez arrived after leaving the Boston Red Sox under similar circumstances. The
Dodgers went out of their way in positioning themselves to acquire him, and in return he carried the
Gas is overpriced, so is Manny Ramirez By Jonathan Mendoza Staff Writer I hate Manny Ramirez, plain and simple. Then again, that seems to be the common trend whenever he decides he wants to make an early exit out of town, disappointing owners, teammates and fans in the process. Manny Ramirez is the equivalent of that crazy exgirlfriend you want to forget as soon as possible. Sure - you remember all the good times, but the ones you can’t shake from your memory are those most recent in the downward spiral you hit toward the bitter end. People call it “Manny being Manny,” but for a guy edging closer to 40, you’d expect a player to assume some maturity as he takes up the role of a leader rather than a guy acting like a pre-pubescent child who was denied extra dessert. For evidence look no further than his final at-bat for the Dodgers when he stepped up to the plate, down 8-2 with the bases loaded. Being in a situation where just two years ago Ramirez could pride himself on thriving in, he displayed a true shift in character by arguing himself
[See Ramirez, page 11]
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George Mikhail Corsair Freshman running back Shandale Lee weaves his way through the crowd at Compton College en route to a 21-10 victory against the Compton Tartars in the season opener this past Saturday.
SMC Football dominates in opener By Michael Mendoza Staff Writer There is no mistaking the smell of the freshly cut grass and the sight of fans filtering into their seats as a new college football season begins. The Santa Monica College Corsairs went on the road to kick off their campaign, taking on the Compton College Tartars in a one-sided affair that culminated in the Corsairs coming out on top with 21-10 victory. Despite a late comeback attempt by the Tartars, SMC’s defense proved up to the challenge, holding the opposition’s offense to merely a late second-quarter touchdown. SMC is looking to make some noise on the defensive side of the ball this season, and on Saturday afternoon the Corsairs were deafening as they held the Tartars to 0-11 on third-down conversion attempts. Freshman and sophomore cornerbacks Brian Hawthorne and A.J Annelus were both instrumental in the defensive success for the Corsairs, as they each pulled down an interception. Annelus particularly shined in the season debut, returning his interception forty-six yards for a touchdown, after the ball had been tipped by Corsairs’ defensive lineman Gerald Blockmon. While the defense continued to keep the Tartars offense at bay, the Corsairs’
put on an offensive show of their own. SMC’s freshman quarterback duo of Travis Williams and R.J. Rosborough dominated the first half of play, throwing touchdown passes to wide receivers Reggie Mitchell and Chase Fletcher in their season debut. “We have a lot of confidence in our players and we have two highly gifted quarterbacks. I would call it sharing the load,” said Gifford Lindheim, head coach of the Corsairs. But shortly after the first two scores, the Corsair’s offense would struggle to find a rhythm and failed to reach the end zone in the second half. “It’s the first game of the season, so you can’t expect everything to go smoothly, but we try to scrimmage to get the best in-game simulation and get everything right,” said Lindheim. The special teams unit also made their presence felt by adding couple of decleating tackles by sophomores Joey Alvarez and Michael Butler, nullifying the speed of the opposing kick-returners. “We’re just scratching the surface. We’re going to start over next week and try to win the next one,” says Coach Lindheim. The Corsairs’ team play resulted in a hard-earned victory and a bus ride back to Santa Monica full of laughter and cheers as they start the year 1-0 and head into next week looking to take on 0-1 East L.A College.
Manny shipped off to Chicago [Ramirez, from page 10] In his first press conference with the White Sox, Ramirez asked for a translator to speak for him, not because he needed one, but because he needed someone to censor his responses to the press regarding his change in scenery and if he would cut his hair to respect the team’s wishes. Ramirez’s responses made him out to be no more than a punk, causing the translator to hold back his laughter at some of the retorts Ramirez shot back to the press.
These indications along with others give way to belief that a post-Manny era shouldn’t be such a bad thing; the Dodgers are still a healthy young team with a lot of talent. And with stars like Andre Ethier, Matt Kemp, James Loney and Clayton Kershaw still pursuing greatness, it should be noted that the team is in good hands. The Dodgers remain out of the playoff race since Ramirez’s departure, but maybe the actual victory isn’t so much apparent in their record as it is in the tone of the locker room.
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Artist’s Spotlight:Victoria Greenwood
Vicotoria Greenwood Contributor From left to right: Sins, Evil Kitty, and Looks May Be Decieving
By Cristina Maxwell Staff Writer The words energetically intriguing, dark, and sensitive are just a quietly fragmented internal part of a very stimulating, outwardly normal girl such as, Santa Monica College student, Victoria Greenwood, 20, whose artistic residue whispers intrigue amongst its admirers. The bloody dance of Hello Kitty’s wrapped in bedazzled vintage jewels just adds a lovely dimension to the “at a glance” cheerleader type. “It’s more fun to be interesting then boring,” says Greenwood, who is currently intertwined with our theater department. She has used her wonderful drawing skills for the betterment of Bugs Bunny, the White Rabbit, and even her own likeness. Her stimulating childhood story, of being a fly-on-the-wall during one of the most important musical movements of our history (the metal-head and hair band era), has lent itself to the desire of being a quiet observer with
morals and lots to say; even her outs of conformed art techniques be worrying about what vulgar maturity is beyond years, and so creates more of a claustrophobic over-priced dresses to wear in feeling within and allows for a front of the judges, Greenwood is her approach to art. Her expressions - charcoals, distaste of proper art education. expresses a strong desire to want watercolors, pens, and paper (not Perhaps that’s just the right to make a change with paint strokes, if need be, if she was to forgetting her vintage influences) temperature of rebelliousness. Her influences lie strongly with win the title. usually - does the talking for her The blond-haired, stylishly showing her desire to give back the esoteric tastes of Edgar Allen to her admirers. It is a talent and Poe, Gris Grimly, and Tim Burton. dressed Miss Encino spoke of discipline she discovered young in Recreating her own inspiration to the impact, through art, that she wants to life. Heavily have on all inspired by the younger her older “The bloody dance of Hello Kittys wrapped in children brother, she bedazzled vintage jewels just adds a lovely chooses to struggling for their concentrate dimension to the ‘at a glance’ cheerleader type” own inner on her -Cristina Maxwell v o i c e s , passion “giving rather than them a get into the mischievousness of a less canvas from the outside observed platform to express themselves”. motivated young adult. and dueling with her own cryptic The concerns of deteriorating She strongly enjoys having emotions, she looks to the likes of right-brain activities in general multi-medium capabilities on these and many others to delight ed schools runs close to her heart. As she recalls her own high school canvas, though she shies away herself. from oils and even indulges While discussing her plans for experience, she sympathizes with in some collage techniques. the future of her art, she spoke the current dilemma of the budget Apparently there’s a slight issue at of tackling the responsibilities of cuts in the school system. Stating hand of impatience when dealing a possible Miss California in the her gratitude at being able to with oils, which she insisted under up-and-coming Miss California discover her own inner prosaic at a giggle, is being worked through. Pageant 2011 through her art. such a young age, she decided that The idea of learning the ins and While so many other girls would she was going to make sure that
others got the same opportunity. With her keen sense of dry humor, enchanting smile, and a positive attitude mantra, “giving a 100% of myself”, we wish her the best of luck the weekend of November 19 because she takes a piece of us, the students of SMC, with her towards making a difference through creativity and consciousness.
Sal Guerra Corsair SMC Student Victoria Greenwood,20, posing in the art quad.