Volume 103 Issue 02

Page 1

VOLUME 103 ISSUE 2 FEBRUARY 29, 2012

“I never knew of war, my world was peaceful.” Alephonsion Deng Pg.3

SMC’s Anthony Cloyd receives Kennedy center scholarship

Pg . 4

Going vegan: healthful or harmful? Pg. 8

Soccer returns to SMC Pg.11

COVER PHOTO BY MARINE GASTE

THE CORSAIR · THECORSAIRONLINE.COM · 1900 PICO BLVD. SANTA MONICA, CA 90405 · (310) 434-4340

2|CONTENTS

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

EDITORIAL STAFF

Nathan Gawronsky ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทEditor-in-Chief corsair.editorinchief@gmail.com Nathalyd Meza ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Managing Editor corsair.managing@gmail.com Fatou Samb ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท News Editor corsair.newspage@gmail.com Amber Antonopoulos ยทยทHealth + Life Editor corsair.lifestylepage@gmail.com Janaeโ Franklin ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท A & E Editor corsair.calendarpage@gmail.com Mia Shilpi ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Opinion Editor corsair.opinionpage@gmail.com Roger Morante ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทSports Editor corsair.sportspage@gmail.com Paul Alvarez ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Multimedia Editor corsair.multimedia@gmail.com Michael Yanow ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Photo Editor Anisa El-Khouri ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Photo Editor corsairphotoeditor@gmail.com David J. Hawkins ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทWeb Editor corsair.webeditor@gmail.com Nathalyd Meza ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Design Editor Alfredo Avila ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยท Design Staff Elham Sagharchi ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทDesign Staff corsair.designteam@gmail.com Jhosef Hern ยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทยทIllustration corsaircartoon@gmail.com W R I T E R S Vanessa Barajas Romero Campbell Peter Cheng Faye Crosswhite Freddie Diaz Melina Flores Jonathan Ghattas Erica Gunn Justin Hinton Luana Kasahara Zoryana Melesh Devan Patel Andrew Riesmeyer Isabel Spiegel Christinia Sziatinszsky Israel Villacota Nadine Weiland Talia Wilson PHOTOGRAPHERS Angelica Aakesson Joseph Adamo Daniela Barhanna Jose Balderas Daniela Berzuini Fabian Cooke Jeff Cote Sydney Forneret Marine Gaste Jonas Ganzoni Adrian Gaticia Amy Gutierrez Carrie Jesenovec Ian-Thomas Kagihara Asta Karalis Linda Konde Guy Mokia Michael Price Lisa Weingarten FACULTY ADVISORS Saul Rubin Gerard Burkhart AD INQUIRIES (310)434-4033 corsair.adconsultant@gmail.com

FROM THE COVER: Photo by: Marine Gaste Corsair Closing the event, Alephonsion Deng pleased his audience signing some of his books that were sold for ten dollars at the event. In honor of African American History Month, Santa Monica College welcomed Deng, who published a book โ They Poured Fired on Us From the Skyโ , to talk about his experience as one of the Lost Boys in Sudan during the second civil war. The โ Africa, America and the Hope of Transnational Connectivityโ event was hosted by the Black Collegians Program and occured last Thursday, February 23, 2012 on SMC main campus in Santa Monica, California. See Lost Boy on page three.

S T A F F Yair Avila Jay Be Brookman Christian Carrillo Chelsea Cobbs Henry Crumblish Sarkis Ekmekian Dylan Futrell Chavi Gourarie Robert Gutierrez Tea Jovanovic Brigette Martinez Ebonee Minor Samantha Perez Mai Sims Susanna Svensson Cinthia Vera Sophia Villegas

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NEWS|3

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Peter S. Cheng Staff Writer

Sudanese ‘Lost Boy’ speaks to collegians

Alephonsion Deng is a tall man with a pleasant disposition and an inviting smile, yet behind his congenial appeal lies the psychological pain of a man who has endured thirty years of unimaginable torments as one of the Lost Boys of Sudan. “I never knew of war, my world was peaceful,” said Deng at the SMC Black History Month event, “Africa, America, and the Hope of Transnational Connectivity,” hosted by the Black Collegians Program last Thursday. His voice quickly turned sour as he recounted his experience as one of approximately 20,000 South Sudanese boys forced to flee their homes in Sudan. According to the International Rescue Committee, these boys were kept in “limbo” due to the 1983 civil war in Sudan which lasted 22 years. Deng’s village was attacked when he was a child by South Sudanese rebels. He fled

his hometown with other members of his community, beginning his childhood journey of uncertainty and despair. “I felt that people had lost control of themselves,” said Deng. “People became objects; and when objectified, we lose humanity and create evil.” According to the US State Department website, the Sudanese conflict stemmed from the violation of the Addis Ababa Accords—an earlier peace treaty agreement between the North and the South—after oil fields were found in South Sudan in 1979. Deng insisted that xenophobia and greed caused good people to commit horrible acts. “The North didn’t know who we were. They thought they could squash us, objectify us. That’s what happens when we don’t know each others’ stories.” Despite his extremely difficult childhood, Deng preaches a message of understanding and forgiveness. Sudan has been divided into two autonomous states, Sudan and South Sudan. Deng refers to his former, northern countrymen, as

his brothers. Deng said he could have retained anger against them, but chose not to hold a grudge. Black Collegians Program Leader, Sherri Bradford, stressed the importance for SMC students to hear Deng’s story. “It’s part of history,” Bradford said. “No matter who is affected, it is important for all of us to know how many inhumane things are going on.” . Deng’s co-author Judy A. Bernstein, who is also the co-founder of the IRC Lost Boys Education Fund, pointed out that the media often concentrates on the welfare of soldiers and on governmental issues in their coverage of conflicts, yet stories like the Lost Boys of Sudan are not emphasized. Bernstein added that events such as the “Africa, America, and the Hope of Transnational Connectivity” are “part of the process of fighting” and that “education is key.” Deng is co-author of the tripartite memoir, “They Poured Fire on Us From the Sky,” and now lives in San Diego.

“March in march” protest on its way Chavi Gourarie Staff Writer A large crowd of SMC students stood in the lamplight outside the Math Complex on the SMC main campus. Packed closely together, the group congested the area and waited. They all got very quiet for a moment, holding their breath. All of a sudden, the company of students dispersed in groans. The students in the crowd were trying to add Prof. Martinez’s statistics class for which there was but one spot available. The rest of the students would have to crash a different course or wait until the next semester. That was in Spring 2011. According to the CCLeague website, a non-profit advisory group for California community colleges, budget cuts of over $6 million at SMC have reduced the number of classes by an additional 566, making it increasingly difficult for students to get the classes they need to graduate and/or transfer. On Tuesday, Feb. 22, an additional $149 million of funding was cut from California Community Colleges and $1.8 million from SMC, according to CCLeague. net. These cuts were due to lower-thanexpected property tax revenues.

The funding decrease in higher education emerges just as California Community Colleges prepare for “March in March,” an annual protest in the state capitol arranged by the Student Senate for California Community Colleges. Students from community colleges across the state will rally on the steps of the state capitol building in Sacramento on March 5. Harrison Wills, President of the Associated Students at SMC, states that what students demand of elected officials “Fund education! It has to be a priority. It’s an investment. It’s the future,” he said. 2.9 million students in the CCC Michael Price Corsair system is political power, according Tom Peters (left), Nick Pernisco and Mario Martinez in the Faculty Association office at Santa Monica to Wills. As students wondered what College, on Feb 23, 2012 in Santa Monica, Calif. Peters, Pernisco and Martinez are heading up the they could do in the face of dwindling “More Classes Now” program at SMC and will be traveling to Sacramento, Calif. with faculty members classes, shorter library hours, and other from other Souther California schools for the March in March protest on March 5, 2012. budget cut frustrations, “March in March” gave students the opportunity governor, Jerry Brown. The act would a learning experience, according to Parker to take action and make their voices heard. place a 15 percent severance tax on oil Jean, Commissioner of Public Relations for Where will the money come from? John produced in California, and the revenue AS. Burton, Chair of the Democratic Party in would go to K-12, college, and university AS members will provide students California, proposes the “Tax Oil to Fund education in California. protesters with information on the current Education Act.” The policy was introduced Last year, the AS sent three buses to the education issues in California and will in the 1970’s by education advocate, Gov. march. This year, due to limited funds, they lecture them on how to better exercise their Pat Brown, father of current California will be sending two. The all-day trip will be democratic rights.

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4|NEWS

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

SMC Theater Arts major competes in national festival for ďŹ rst time in history

Sal Guerra Corsair Archives Actor Anthony Cloyd and fellow classmates rehearsing for their MTW performance at Santa Monica College, June 2010.

Andy Riesmeyer Staff Writer Anthony Cloyd, 23, walks the Santa Monica College Theater Arts Department hallways like a bona fide superstar. The energy of his presence outshines his small stature as the eyes of students follow him down the austere backstage hall. He slows down in front of huge auditorium doors as classmates, teachers, and friends welcome him in the hall with congratulatory hugs. A student cries out, “Yay, Anthony!� Cloyd returns a smile. “Thank you,� he says. Cloyd is big news at the SMC Theater Arts Department. He will be the first SMC student in history to compete in the prestigious Kennedy Center Festival. He has returned earlier this month from the American College Theater Festival in Ogden, Utah, as winner of a $250 scholarship. His scene partner and former SMC classmate, Celia M. Rivera, outshined about 200 student actors in the festival’s regional contest hosted at Weber State University. Cloyd was shocked when he won first place. “It didn’t even feel real! I didn’t move. I thought it was a mistake,� he said. Cloyd and Rivera performed selections from two plays: Richard Wesley’s “The Talented Tenth,� and “The Colored Museum,� by George C. Wolfe. Cloyd performed a monologue from Shakespeare’s tragedy, “Troilus and Cressida�. Cloyd will be accompanied by his partner, Rivera, to Washington, D.C in April for the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival. Rivera is eligible for the $250 Kingsley Colton Award for Best Partner while Cloyd is qualified for

the $3000 Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship. Cloyd says, “It’s such an honor to go. It’s not even really about winning. I just want to be able to enjoy the experience.� The scholarship is named after Irene Ryan, the actress who portrayed “Granny Clampett� on the ‘60s comedy sitcom, “The Beverly Hillbillies�. According to the Kennedy Center website, the scholarship gives “recognition, honor, and financial assistance to outstanding student performers wishing to pursue further education.� Perviz Sawoski, Theater Arts Department Chair at SMC, casted Cloyd in his very first play, “Camilla.� “He’s somewhat unique in the way that he absorbs material really fast and really well. He has good voice, good movement abilities, and he is a good actor,� Sawoski said. Cloyd has been attending SMC for six years. He has acted in many plays at the SMC Theatre Arts Department including “Metamorphosis� by Mary Zimmerman’s and “The Good Woman of Szechwan� by Bertolt Brecht. Cloyd enjoys the attention he is getting, and plans to complete a Bachelor of Arts at NYU or UCLA in the fall. “It feels amazing because you work hard, and someone finally appreciates your work,� he said. SMC Theatre Arts Department nominated Cloyd for the competition in March 2011. Sawoski is hopeful that Cloyd’s participation this April in Washington, D.C. will be beneficial not only to Cloyd, but to SMC. “I think it’s a great honor. We’re excited for him. I think he’s going to bring Santa Monica College’s name to national recognition,� Sawoski said.

No redevelopment means more funding for public education? Zoryana Melesh Staff Writer Cliff Graves, Senior Economic Development Officer, posed a question to the audience at the Santa Monica College redevelopment panel discussion last Thursday evening: “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. So what will the reaction be to redevelopment agencies being dissolved?� The SMC Public Policy Institute hosted a debate concerning the end of redevelopment projects in California and its consequences on education, public safety, and the state budget. Kane Murray, Senior Principal at Kane, Ballmer, and Berkman, opened the discussion with benefits that redevelopment has brought upon communities since initiated in 1945 by the state statute. According to Kane, redevelopment created more affordable housing, overhauled urban areas, and investments in infrastructure. He continued to say that the assessed value of redeveloped areas had an increase, which in return raised the property tax on the areas. Kane made the distinction between blighted areas and non-blighted areas. Blighted areas need redevelopment, which stimulates growth in assessed value, whereas non-blighted areas are a waste of investment. Kane later on stated that the end of redevelopment means, “We don’t have economic development, and we don’t have affordable housing.� Sheila Kuel, founder of Public Policy

Institute pointed out that community colleges have already taken a beating with budget cuts. There are “fewer faculty members, fewer courses, longer transfer time, and an increase in dropouts,� she said. According to Kuel, the state promised to redirect the funding that was initially meant for redevelopment agencies toward California public higher institutions. But the prospect of using redevelopment funds to close the budget gap in education is becoming doubtful, according to Graves. “In the 2012 budget, no extra money is going to schools,� Graves said. Instead, the funds initially for redevelopment will go towards closing the “black hole,� a term used to describe the deficit resulting from the state spending more than it receives in revenues. There are supporters of Gov. Jerry Brown’s decision to stop redevelopment projects. In recent years, redevelopment agencies were accused of wasting state money to build private businesses for selfprofit rather than rebuilding blighted areas for the community’s welfare. Gov. Brown and his supporters believe that the state can no longer afford to spend money on redevelopment in these moments of state deficit. Instead, the state should redirect funds which were initially intended for redevelopment, to public schools, the main city, and county services. For public schools, this would mean an extra $1 billion annually, according to Brown. Opponents of Gov. Brown’s decision to stop redevelopment projects remain skeptical about this claim.

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OPINION|5

Condoms For Porn Melina Flores Staff Writer Most of us have been there before, that moment in the heat of passion when a decision must be made about whether tonight’s the night you will play Russian Roulette with your body or face an awkward moment for your safety; where everything must come to a halt to put on a condom. Most educated people would rather have that little pause in the moment of passion than risk getting a sexually transmitted disease. So why should performers in the porn industry not be obligated to wear a condom? I doubt that most of them like to think “What if today’s the day I finally catch something?” Adult entertainers need just as much health protection, if not more, than we do. While it’s true that porn companies mandate their employees to get tested for

STDs at least once a month, that’s not enough. The porn industry needs to grow up and set an example for safe sex. The Los Angeles City Council has approved a mandate requiring porn actors wear condoms on set. As a childish retaliation, some porn producers have threatened to move the industry out of the San Fernando Valley, the porn capital of the world. If this happens, it could threaten the Los Angeles economy, which earns billions from adult entertainment annually. Porn legend Ron Jeremy, “The Hedgehog,” has starred in over 2,000 adult films, and insists he’s disease-free. He is opposed to the initiative, telling the Huffington Post in January 2012, “They call it a dental dam because dam if I wear one…it ruins the fantasy.” While it’s true porn is a fantasy, STDs are real, and they are not going anywhere anytime soon. A condom may be a reminder of unwanted pregnancy and STDs, but it shouldn’t be feared. There is no one who can make putting a condom on a man sexier than Jenna Jameson, “The Queen Of Porn.” She is what most female adult entertainment actresses aspire to be. According to the Global Post, Jameson is all for using condoms during adult films, having worked for Wicked Pictures, a porn companie that has had their performers wear condoms since a 2004 HIV scare.

Humans or robots? Jay Be Brookman Staff Writer

Illustration By Jhosef Hern

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

The mandate will not only help the actors stay healthy, but also make it possible for future generations to see using a condom as a necessary part of sex. We live in California, the trendsetter of

No, it’s not the title of a cheesy movie; it’s a real-life battle. And whether or not you care about space and science, they’re using your money to pay for it, so you might want to have a say in how your money is being spent. Since the U.S. space shuttle program was retired in 2011, this is the first time in decades that the U.S. has not had its own manned space program running. Both the previous and current U.S. presidents and scientific leaders have made bold speeches regarding what the future holds for the U.S’s space program. However, manned space programs are many times more expensive than unmanned programs. The crux of the issue is this: with our bad economy, the national budget is being cut in many places, and the space program is one of them. The proponents of manned programs argue that despite the higher costs, manned programs are worth the extra cost because they attract the attention and spirit of the public; that these manned missions to the moon and Mars should be undertaken because they capture the essence of mankind’s nature to explore

N AT I O N A L U N I V E R S I T Y

the entertainment industry. If we make this happen, we will be setting and example to other states and countries that still use bareback (condom-less) porn to attract viewers.

the unknown; that by pushing out into space, we are exploring the final frontiers, the last places that humans have yet to go. Most current SMC students were not around when the space race to the moon was in full swing, but the general feeling of the time period can be easily gleaned from history. Looking at speeches and newsreels from that era, it was clear that there was a unifying excitement about our nation boldly going where no humans had ever gone before. Experts agree that a present day manned mission to Mars would garner the same kind of fascination, and almost everyone in the scientific community would like to see such a fantastic human endeavor. But the divergence of opinion arises on the questions of: Can we afford such a mission right now? And if not now, when? “It’s good to have ambitious plans for manned space exploration to keep the public interested in the spirit of scientific discovery,” says Dr. Gary Fouts, an SMC Astronomy Professor and advisor to SMC’s Astronomy Club. “However, considering our current budget, we

should focus on unmanned space probes right now, which can gather the same scientific data for a fraction of the cost of manned missions.” Despite this, the importance of manned missions was also stressed. “We should not give up on manned space exploration, but rather plan for it in the future when we can afford to do it properly. It’s good for the public to have something exciting to look forward to in terms of space exploration.” It’s clear that as humans, our natural curiosity will eventually propel us to send people to Mars and beyond. But realistically, we can’t afford it right now. Instead, we could be sending robotic space probes to determine if there is life on other worlds in our Solar System. Such an amazing discovery is within our grasp if we commit to doing it. So the sensible route would be, “Robots now, humans later.” When we’re no longer dealing with a budget crisis, then we can once again start sending humans to explore the final frontier of outer space.

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6|PHOTOSTORY

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 29, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Maurício (right), a trainer at Alcântara Machado’s Viaduct in São Paulo, Brazil, practices with one of his students. “I believe I can make a difference and transform people’s lives”, he says.

Hope under

Photos and text b

When asked how he got to this point, answered, “Craziness.” Everything starte to work as a security guard in downtown streets stealing and using drugs. He knew began to teach them self esteem and confi For 2 years, Garrido volunteered h underprivileged. The government grante in Bixiga, a neighborhood in São Paulo as homemade cement weights, motor sha resistive training, Garrido created his box Although the project was originally focus to addicts and the homeless, it actually e their social class. “You see people with something and p harmony. They talk, train together, and “There is space for everyone.” Without any government support, Gar Everything from food, books, old compute Everything helps. Today, the project is not only a boxing recreational space for children and an classes and computer accessibility to those

Alexander dos Santos, 47, comes everyday to practice. “I’m too old to be a professional boxer, but I come to have fun”, he says.

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PHOTOSTORY|7

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 29, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

The project survives on donations. Everything is welcomed. Food, books, old computers, scraps and equipment.

Two regular visitors work out at the boxing gym. Although the project was originally focused to provide comfort and opportunity to addicts and the homeless, it has served all people regardless of social class.

the bridge

by Daniela Berzuini

Nilson Garrido began to laugh, and d when Garrido, a former boxer, used São Paulo. He used to see kids on the w there had to be more for them, so he fidence through boxing. his time helping and training the ed him use of a space under a viaduct o. Using rudimentary equipment such afts as exercise bars, and truck tires for xing school. sed to provide comfort and opportunity ended up serving people regardless of

Felipe dos Anjos Matos, 23 years old, exercises under the viaduct, on November 17, 2012, in São Paulo, Brazil. Matos learned to box in the FEBEM, a juvenile facility. A former drug addict, Matos began visiting Garrido’s project when he was 16. He currently works for the beer company Bhrama lifting and carrying cases. “My work is already training”, he says. He continues to go to Garrido’s for what he calls “ heavy training”. Matos has been in 20 fights, 5 professional and its one of the examples that the Garrido’s project worked.

people with nothing getting along in d respect each other,” says Garrido.

rrido’s project survives on donations. ers, scraps and equipment is welcomed.

g school, but also a gym, a library, a educational center offering language e who may need it.

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8| HEALTH + LIFESTYLE

Going

Christina Sziatinszky Staff Writer

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

vegan:

healthful

or

harmful?

When it comes to choosing a vegan lifestyle, the question that seems to be on many individuals’ minds is whether or not a plant-based diet is wholesome enough to satisfy the nutritional needs of the human body. Veganism, unlike vegetarianism, excludes the consumption of eggs, dairy, butter, and honey. Choosing this lifestyle may have health benefits, but if not planned properly, it may have adverse effects on the human body. “I actually don’t think it’s healthy to be vegan,” says Susan Dopart, a registered dietitian and author of “A Recipe for Life.” “They are at risk of vitamin and calcium deficiency, osteoporosis and protein malnourishment.” According to Dopart, being a vegan requires careful planning because certain essential vitamins and minerals normally obtained from meat have to be consumed in an alternate manner. Failure to do so can result in malnourishment and loss of energy. However, Santa Monica College professor of psychology David Phillips believes veganism is in fact beneficial, and able to provide all nutritional needs. “It’s easy and tasty,” says Phillips. “You don’t need to worry about getting all the protein and nutrients you need if you simply eat a lot of different colored plant foods.” Phillips chose to become a vegan about 30 years ago for several reasons, and now feels as though he couldn’t be healthier or happier. “I do not want to be part of the cruel system of raising and slaughtering animals,” Phillips says. “And [being vegan] is healthier for me.” Asta Karalis Corsair Phillips gets his nutrients from eating daily portions of protein-rich lentils, Surprisingly, this Santa Fe Crispy Chicken Burger from The Veggie Grill is all vegan. It is loaded with lettuce, and nutrient-dense greens, fruits and veggies. A typical meal for him consists tomato, red onion, avocado, southwestern-spiced vegan mayo, and “meat” made from all plant-based ingredients. of oatmeal with soy milk, blueberries, a banana, and an apple for breakfast. replaced with nutrient-dense alternatives.” For lunch, he sometimes eats brown rice and lentils mixed in a salad, and for Alicia Silverstone, who is best known for her role in “Clueless,” appeared on the dinner he eats rice, beans and corn cooked with salsa. According to the Vegan Society’s website, a well-balanced, whole-food vegan diet can Oprah Winfrey Show in 2010, and shared her stories about following a vegan diet. Her improve a person’s quality of life, and decrease their chances of acquiring many diseases, experiences as a vegan for over 10 years inspired her to create the vegan cookbook “The including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers. Plant-based diets are also Kind Diet.” Silverstone told viewers she sleeps like a baby, and doesn’t worry about her weight. She inherently low in cholesterol, and more likely to be low in saturated fat and calories. They also reported having an increase in energy, better complexion and even stronger nails. are also high in fiber, complex carbohydrates and cancer-fighting antioxidants. Today, most supermarkets provide an extensive selection of meatless products, and there “You can have a very healthy well-balanced diet as a vegan, however, if not planned properly, you can also be at risk for many nutrient deficiencies,” says Yvonne Ortega, a are several restaurants in Santa Monica that offer vegan meals. The Golden Mean Cafe, registered dietitian and SMC nutrition professor. “Strictly avoiding meat, fish, poultry, located on Wilshire and 11th Street, and The Veggie Grill, at 2025 Wilshire Blvd. are alland foods from animals can be unhealthy if these foods and their nutrients are not vegan restaurants that provide hearty meals, and pastries to satisfy sweet cravings. “I believe a vegetarian diet can be healthy to follow,” says Ortega. “With all our specialty stores and restaurants that create vegan products, it makes planning a vegan diet much

Vintage fashions on a student budget

Karolin Axelsson Staff Writer

With the increasing popularity of vintage clothing, accessories and shoes, many secondhand shops have become more expensive, leaving students in search of stores that sell good-quality garments at affordable prices. Ali Vasiloff, store manager at Buffalo Exchange in Santa Monica, believes that buying secondhand clothing has become trendy in part because people are being more cautious about the environment, and are drawn to the idea of recycling clothes. “People like the uniqueness of the clothes,” says Vasiloff. “[They are] not cookie-cutter.” The typical Buffalo Exchange customer is, according to Vasiloff, “relaxed and casual with a bohemian-chic style, trendy, and in touch with the environment in a beach-loving kind of way.” Most secondhand stores like Buffalo Exchange have a policy of only selling clothes in good condition, which have been gently worn and freshly washed. Some clothes are even brand new. “Many of the people we buy from are working in the fashion industry,” says Vasiloff. “[These] stylists sell [us] brand new clothes, or clothes that only have been worn once.” Cherry Picked Foundation, a local Westside non-profit organization, has a thrift boutique on Pico Boulevard, where shoppers may be able to find bargains. All clothes at the boutique are donated, and the money the store makes from sales goes to various other non-profit organizations. “Since I was little, I was used to handme-downs from my siblings,” says Justine Roncone, founder of Cherry Picked Foundation, who has worn used clothes her entire life. “Just give it a try,” Roncone says to those who may overlook the possibility

of buying secondhand. “Go in and experience it before you turn it down. We will please some and not others, but we will try.” “I like vintage because the clothes have the trendy, worn look to them,” says Santa Monica College student Daniel Carlsson. “I also like that every item has a story behind it, and many times the sales assistants can tell you something about the garment.” “[Wasteland on 4th Street has] a lot of good stuff for men, as well as women,” says Carlsson, of his favorite vintage store in Santa Monica. “You have to have patience, but when you do find something you like, it’s worth it.” When searching for secondhand clothes, store employees and shoppers both suggest allowing a significant amount of time for shopping, and not necessarily searching for something in particular, but being open to the unique items available. “I would say, spend at least 30 minutes to an hour in the store,” Vasiloff says. “Look through everything, and try on a lot of items. Even if a garment doesn’t look fabulous on the hanger it can be amazing when it is worn.” Vasiloff also points out that it can be helpful to visit stores often, because many shops receive new items weekly, or even daily. “Sometimes when the store buys an item in the morning, it is already on the racks in the afternoon,” Vasiloff says of Buffalo Exchange. Some stores in Santa Monica offering vintage clothing items and accessories include Cherry Picked Thrift Boutique at 2807 Pico Blvd., Buffalo Exchange at 2449 Main St., Wasteland at 1338 4th St., Crossroads Trading Co. at 1449-B 4th St. For those in search of high-end vintage fashions, secondhand shoppers can visit Haute Seconds at 2721 Wilshire Blvd. and AdDress Boutique at 1116 Wilshire Blvd.

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HEALTH + LIFESTYLE |9

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Caffeine

effects

Emilia Reyes Staff Writer

extend

beyond

the

buzz

milligrams consumed, caffeine can have a serious impact on the nervous system. Julia Gonen, a naturopathic doctor, reports on Livestrong’s website that caffeine increases levels of stress hormones such as cortisone, epinephrine and norephinepherine, which can lead to a quickened heart rate and higher blood pressure. According to the American Dietetic Association’s website, caffeine affects each individual differently. A moderate amount of caffeine is considered to be around 200 to 300 milligrams per day, or about two to three small cups of coffee, which most adults can safely consume without

adverse effects. The same amount, however, may make certain individuals feel jittery. A person’s general anxiety If you’re thinking of reaching over for a sip of your coffee level, body weight and physical condition can all affect or tea, be aware that your daily dose of caffeine may be their caffeine sensitivity. tampering with more than just your energy level. Black tea has between 14 to 61 milligrams of caffeine, Many students depend on a daily caffeine jolt to help and green tea can contain 24 to 40 milligrams, according them get through their days because caffeine is a mildly to Mayo Clinic’s website. The amount of caffeine in tea is addictive drug, as Ruth Frechman, a spokeswoman for dependent upon how long the tea is steeped. the American Dietetic Association, told the Los Angeles The Center for Science in the Public Interest, which Times. reports the caffeine content of several popular beverages, “Some people that come in here are addicted to coffee,” said that a generic brewed 16-ounce coffee contains about claims Bobby Ventura, a barista at The Coffee Bean & 266 milligrams of caffeine. However, Tea Leaf in Thousand brewed coffee from big chains like Oaks. “They come in, Starbucks contains about 320 milligrams and order the same thing in a 16-ounce cup. Espresso actually every day, and if they are contains less caffeine than brewed coffee. running late, they are A single shot from Starbucks has about 75 usually grumpy.” milligrams. National Geographic A 16-ounce chai tea latte from Starbucks defines caffeine as a contains about 100 milligrams of psychoactive drug, and caffeine. The caffeine content in bottled reports that it is the teas, including brands such as Snapple, most popular drug in the Arizona and Nestea, is considerably world. Regular use of less, ranging from 10 to 42 milligrams caffeine can cause mild per serving. Energy drinks can contain physical dependence. anywhere from 48 to 300 milligrams, Caffeine is classified as depending on the brand and serving size. a drug because it has When consumed in moderation, any the ability to stimulate form of caffeine can boost energy levels. the central nervous In excess, however, it can cause anxiety system, which causes and irritability, according to the Mayo increased alertness and Clinic website. wakefulness. Caffeine It appears as though many Santa Monica not only tinkers with College students enjoy their taste of energy levels, but can bitterness in the morning, and continue cause mood alterations to drink caffeinated beverages despite as well. Asta Karalis Corsair potential adverse effects on the nerves. Whether it’s in coffee, JC Chiang, owner of Santa Monica’s Funnel Mill Rare Coffee and Tea says, there is a difference in caffeine between coffee “I don’t care that coffee messes with my tea, energy drinks, and tea but that actual levels vary depending on specific blend and strength of brew. He says sometimes coffee makes people nervous system,” says Jaime Hughes, an jittery because they are drinking more than the recommended dosage. Chiang stresses the importance of fresh ingredients caffeine pills, or sodas, and proper preparation. He grinds the beans as ordered to ensure the best quality. SMC business major. “I’m comfortable depending on the with that.”

Yoga poses to heal the mind and body Cinthia Vera Staff Writer

It is still the beginning of the semester, but soon classes will become increasingly intense, stress levels will rise, sleepless nights will follow, and clenched coffee cups will be seen all over campus. To maintain a sense of calm in the chaos, many students practice yoga poses in

attempt to alleviate stress. “Physically, [yoga] helps with joint mobility and strengthens your arms,” says Herb Sandoval, an iyengar yoga instructor at Santa Monica College. “Mentally, it’s great for stress release.” “Among yoga’s anti-stress benefits are a host of biochemical responses,” according to WebMD. “There is a decrease in the hormones produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Lowering levels of hormone neurotransmitters – dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine – creates a feeling of calm.” According to Sandoval, the first and most important stress-relieving pose is downward facing dog, or “adho mukha svanasana” in Sanskrit. This pose is done with both feet and hands flat on the floor in the shape of a triangle, with the buttocks lifted in the air. It stretches out the legs and spine, and

since it is an inversion, it can help regulate circulation as well. “Some poses are more passive, with your head in line with your heart, while others are more stimulative,” says Sandoval. Another pose that can reportedly aid in stress relief is the half-moon pose, or “arha chandrasana.” It requires a bit more balance, and can be done by balancing on one foot and leg. For example, if leaning toward the right side, one must balance on the right leg and arm. The left leg is then lifted as high as possible, making the hips broad. The left arm is also lifted straight up. One can place a yoga brick underneath the right hand to help gain more height and stability. The bridge pose, also known as the half wheel, or “setu bandha sarvangasana,” has been said to ease menstrual cramps because of the creation of space in the lower

abdomen area, according to Sandoval. While lying on the floor, both hands are brought adjacent to the hips. Once there, both knees are bent a few inches away from the hands, and the hips are lifted. The chest bone should be directly in front of the face. Reverse namaste, or “pashchima namaskarasana,” is done standing, by placing both hands on the back while slowly connecting the mounds of both hands together. Little fingers point toward the spine, while thumbs point away from the spine. This pose opens up the chest, making it easier to fill the lungs and lower extremities with oxygen, which can alleviate stress by promoting regular breathing. “You create a sensation to create relaxation,” says Sandoval. “You have to do a little work to create relaxation.”

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10| ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

SMC: LOOK Daniel Dokter Staff Writer

AT

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

ME NOW MOVIE REVIEW:

GONE

Name: Regina Allen

Dylan Futrell Staff Writer

Talent: Dancing and modeling

It’s a cheap shot, but here goes: My $12 are Gone, and I’m never getting them back. This thriller, directed by Heitor Dhalia, fumbles between revenge drama and psychological thriller, mastering neither with its lackluster script thud-like ending. The film centers on Jill, played by actress Amanda Seyfried of Mean Girls and Mamma Mia! After her sister Molly (Emily Wickersham) vanishes without a trace, Jill fears her abductor from two years prior is back to exact revenge. The authorities, as usual, become an obstacle when Jill takes matters into her own hands, forcing her to both discover the kidnapper’s identity and dodge the law, all the while coping with the trauma of her past abduction. Even in title, Gone tries hard to emulate the 2008 action thriller Taken. Both Seyfried and Taken’s Liam Neeson take no prisoners in the search for their loved ones. But while Neeson’s guns do his talking, Jill’s battles are of the verbal variety. As Jill finds out quickly during her ‘investigation,’ lying is the key to success. Almost every conversation – and there are plenty of them –

Hometown: Riverside, CA Major: Journalism Transferring to: CSULA or Berkeley Role model: My mother Past gigs: Featured in The Zone Magazine, performed in the SMC Synapse Dance Theater in 2011 Famous quote: “Tomorrow happened like it did so today can happen like it should” by Anonymous. When did you realize your talent: I wanted to model when I turned 7 years old. Regina’s Website: http://reginaallenm. blogspot.com/

Fashion at the Academy Awards Robert Gutierrez Staff Writer The 84th Annual Academy Awards kicked off the evening with its usual red carpet entrances. Opening ceremonies always begin with the buzz surrounding designers and the stars they have adorned. According to Giuliana Rancic and Kelly Osbourne, of E’s Fashion Police, the trends of the night were silvery whites, black and a few gold coppery shades. As with any red carpet event, there were fashion hits and fashion misses. •ONE• Angelina Jolie rocked the red carpet in a stunning black Atelier Versace dress. With a dangerously high slit, Jolie stole the show with one of the sexiest dresses of the night. •TWO• “The Help” actress Jessica Chastain was a huge hit at the Oscars. Chastain wore a black Alexander McQueen gown that made her look regal with its gold pattern. • THREE• Sasha Baron Cohen showed up as his character “The Dictator.” His costume, which was designed by Galliano, was utterly ridiculous. Cohen showed total disregard to the academy by making such a spectacle of himself.

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involves Jill improvising a convincing cover-up for her true intentions, and this is where Seyfried shines. In particular, Jill posing as a high school student to duck from the cops is an entertaining and memorable diversion. However, aside from Seyfried’s verbal shenanigans, the script is forgettable at best, and hilariously bad at its worst, like Jill’s conversation with her widower neighbor. At times the dialogue is so stilted and unrealistic that it seems deliberate, as though Jill’s post-traumatic stress had gotten the best of her, and these conversations are nothing more than the fever dreams of a lunatic. Well, if only that were true. Both the plot and the character development are undercooked. Minor plot inconsistencies abound, and the characters – Jill excluded – are nothing more than set pieces. The audience has almost no reason to care about the kidnapped Molly, or Jill’s next destination, or even the killer’s identity. The ‘suspects’ that Jill crosses paths with, four or five in total, are all doppelgangers: the same slack-jawed stare, the same disgusting neck beard, and the same monotone voice. If all of the potential killers look the same and act the same, what’s the point? In the end, there’s no overarching mystery, no “a-ha!” moment; just a seemingly pointless chase that reaches its surprisingly safe conclusion. Taken had a similar problem, but held no pretensions that it was anything more than a simple revenge drama. In fact, it reveled in its simplicity. However, Gone tries to be more than that, with an interesting idea that never reaches fruition. Jill’s psychological turmoil is an intriguing aspect of the story that unfortunately falls short. Flashbacks from her abduction and its aftermath are interlaced throughout, and Jill’s erratic behavior and addiction to medication indicate deep psychological trauma caused by her kidnapping. These scenes seem to hint at a game changing revelation to come – ala Shutter Island, Memento, or any mind-bender worth its salt – but Jill’s increasingly erratic behavior has an unsatisfying payoff. Viewers will leave the theater scratching their heads, not trying to decipher the film’s final minutes, but wondering why the film reached such a conventional, cheap conclusion. It’s instantly satisfying in the worst way possible. On all fronts, Gone’s tale of revenge falls flat. While Seyfried turns in a decent performance, the characters are dull and the ending is nothing but wasted potential. Ultimately, Gone feels more like a product of focus groups and targeting demographics than an honest attempt at telling a thoughtprovoking story.

SPORTS|11

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Men’s volley ball wins decisively at home

Soccer Returns to SMC

Joseph Adamo Corsair Santa Monica College players attempt to block the ball during Men’s Volleyball game against Holy Names University on Feb. 24, 2012 in Santa Monica College.

Mai Simms Staff Writer The energy of the Santa Monica College men’s volleyball team dominated the Santa Monica College Pavilion, where they faced the Holy Names University’s Hawks Friday night. They ended the game in its fourth set at 2516, 25-22, 23-25, and 25-14. Seven minutes into the game, the Corsairs had a slight lead at 10-7, but increased that lead to 18-12 after 13 minutes of the game time. The 23-25 lead taken by the Hawks in the third set added intensity to the game; The Corsairs seemed to become tired, but the strong team spirit of the Corsairs and the injuries of the Hawks settled the game. The Hawks put up a strong defense, but in the end it wasn’t enough to gain victory. The superior defense of the Corsairs along with their powerful serves led them to take home the victory. Coach John Mayer was very pleased with the team’s performance. “We had a really good day of practice yesterday, and it showed today,” Mayer said. “I think when you train well, you end up playing well.” The Corsairs also welcomed a few newcomers, amongst them switch hitter Charlie Schmittdiel. The 6’5” opposite hitter came straight from Santa Monica High School, and has proven to be a valuable asset to the team. “Charlie is one of the most talented guys, probably in the state.” Mayer said. “He’s a hard worker and a fun guy to have around.” Coach Mayer noticed how the Corsairs are supporting themselves within the team, amongst players. “I thought a couple of guys did a good job acknowledging when other people did well.” Mayer said. “It’s easy to point fingers, but it’s better when the fingers are pointing at something positive.” According to Coach Mayer, the Corsairs men’s volleyball team has a bright season ahead of them. Their next game is played at home in the SMC Pavilion against the Santa Barbara City College’s Vaqueros in a State Conference game. “I anticipate a lot of good matches ahead,” Mayor said. “I think we have a good group and we keep getting better.”

Ian Kagihara Corsair Head Coach Tim Pierce poses during tryouts for the newly created Santa Monica College men’s soccer team at Corsair Field on Monday, Feb. 27, in Santa Monica, Calif.

Jonathan Ghattas Staff Writer After a 20-year hiatus, the Corsairs men’s soccer team will be back on the field and ready to play in the fall of 2012. Disciplinary reasons and on-field fights were the root cause for the cancellation of the program and factored into the school’s decision to discontinue the program in 1993. Early in November 2011, it was announced that the team would be brought back and would begin participating in the Western State Conference. Head Coach Tim Pierce has been SMC’s women’s assistant head coach for the past eight years, and has been given the job of regrouping the men’s soccer team. As an assistant coach, Pierce has helped aid the women’s team to the playoffs in five of the past six seasons. Pierce played soccer at UCLA, where he won a Pac10 championship and a National Championship, earning himself All-American honors. As a proven leader and winner in his collegiate career, Pierce looks to bring the same successes. Pierce now faces the challenge of leading a team for the first time in his career as a college head coach. “Right now our roster will consist of current and future SMC students,” Pierce said. “The

current ones will be identified through our soccer classes here on campus, then I plan on recruiting the future members from nearby high schools and local clubs.” Pierce has a little over six months to fill out a roster and get the team together. The demand for a men’s soccer team over the past few years is expected to help in the recruiting process, as many student athletes have been itching for a chance to get on the field and represent SMC. “Our first official day to begin practices will be August 15, and I expect us to get out there and start to prepare for our first game,” Pierce said. With the absence of the soccer team over the past years, excitement for the sport’s return is expected to be felt around campus in the upcoming months. “I feel very honored to be named the head coach.” Pierce said. “The fact that the program has been resurrected speaks volumes about the commitment and support from our SMC community and our president of athletics. This is just another step in building the athletic department.” The team’s first game will be at home August 31 at 3 p.m.

PLAYERS INTERESTED IN JOINING THE TEAM SHOULD CONTACT COACH PIERCE DIRECTLY VIA PHONE OR EMAIL: PIERCE_TIMOTHY@SMC.EDU

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12|SPORTS

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 29, 2012 - SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

SMC softball team loses two games in a row Susanna Svensson Staff Writer

Michael Price Corsair Santa Monica College Corsair pitcher, Jamie Kenyon, swings at a pitch in a game agasint San Jacinto College at Clover Park, Santa Monica, Calif. on Feb. 24. The Corsair’s womens softball team played a double header against San Jacinto College.

The Mt. San Jacinto Eagles beat the Santa Monica College Corsairs 12-10 in the first of the two games that day, and even though the Corsairs seemed eager for revenge, the grey clouds hovering over SMC Field in Clover Park predicted the gloomy outcome last Friday. Nevertheless, the girls showed positive attitudes during their losing battle, cheering each other on their home field and keeping the team spirit alive during the 5-1 loss of their second game. “They’re either going to flip the game, or its going to get worse,” Corsairs Head Coach Char Wilson said before the start of the second game. “It’s one of those.” The second game got off to a good start for the Corsairs, with pitcher Jamie Kenyon making it hard for Mt San Jacinto Eagles at the plate. Even though the Eagles got some good hits, the Corsairs defense was strong and kept the Eagles from scoring any runs. Brenda Patino, pitching for the Eagles, did her best to keep the Corsairs striking out in their batting, but at the top of the

2nd inning Ferrufino got a good hit and teammate Alyssa White was able to safely reach home plate, taking the Corsairs to a 1-0 lead. Kenyon continued her good pitching for the Corsairs, but in the bottom of the 4th inning, Eagles Kendra Williams hit a double, turning the game around. After a walk from teammate Courtnie Brooks and a great hit from Kristy Connor, Williams was able to safely complete a run, bringing her team to a 3-1 lead. The Eagles continued their solid batting, and kept their lead throughout the game. “I think this game was probably a little more intense,” Coach Wilson said comparing the day’s two games. “So that was better, but ‘next-times’ are going to run out pretty soon. They got to get it together now.” Although the Corsairs lost both games this Friday, they recently reached semi-finals in a 15-team San Diego tournament showing that they are improving. “At least, on our tournament we had something great,” Wilson said. “We reached semifinals, which is outstanding for us so far. We just got to mash together.”

SPORTS BRIEFS •TENNIS• YAIR AVILA • STAFF WRITER SMC’s Criss Rodriguez won her singles match against Sevana Zargarian of Glendale 7-5, 7-6 but lost the doubles match when she paired with Juliana Melkin against Zargarian and Samantha Sismundo, 8-6. •BASKETBALL• JACOB BLACKOFF • STAFF WRITER Corsairs eliminated from playoffs

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The Corsairs came up short against El Camino 82-77 last Wednesday. Corsairs Julian Wheeler had 34 points to lead the Corsairs in their losing battle yet even his stellar play was not enough to lift Santa Monica College to victory. “Rebounds and shooting percentage would boil down to be the final factor in the Warrior’s win,” said Santa Monica College Head Coach Jerome Jenkins. “They just beat us; they physically beat us.”

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BY: SOPHIA VILLEGAS

PHOTO BY: JEFF COTE

JULIAN WHEELER

Year: Sophomore Sport: Basketball Guard/Forward Height: 6’3 Wt: 185 Hometown: Los Angeles, CA High School: Leuzinger Major: Criminal Justice What inspired you to play basketball? My dad and brother got me into playing basketball. I started at the age of five and I’ve loved it ever since. I knew it was the sport I wanted to play since I was young. When you were growing up, who did you most admire in the game of basketball and why? Growing up. I didn’t really have a favorite player until Kobe [Bryant] came along. I was too young to remember Michael Jordan until the end of his career. What type of music do you listen to before a game? Before the game, I don’t really have anyone in particular to listen to. I just put my iPod on shuffle and if something comes on I like, I just let it play out. When you are not playing basketball, what do you do for fun? For fun I like to just hang out with my friends, chill, and play NBA 2K. I’m a pretty laid back person so I don’t go out like that. If you were to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why? If I where to meet anyone in the world I would want to meet Barack Obama. Meeting the first black president would definitely be an honor. script Kobe Bryant or Michael Jordan? Who do you think is a better player and why? Even though Kobe is my favorite player, I would have to say Michael Jordan. He didn’t win all those MVPs and championships out of luck. He also had a great all around game. What do you think about Jeremy Lin and his underdog story? How can you compare yourself to him? I think it’s a great story. It just goes to show that if someone is given a chance, they just need to make the best out of it. I can compare myself to him because during high school I was sometimes overlooked. I just had to go out there and prove myself on the court. What are your goals this year? My goals this year is to get at least a 3.0 GPA, transfer to a division one school, and continue to play basketball. If you had a chance to work anywhere, where would you work and what would you do? If I had a chance to work anywhere, it would have to be in the basketball field. That’s one thing I truly love to do. Julian was the second leading scorer on the team averaging 14 points per game. He also received All Conference honors while leading his team to third place in the Western State Conference with a 15-13 overall record.

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