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EL CAMINO COLLEGE
Sept. 6, 2012
President stops to help student
$7.3 million slashed from EC budget Philip Prins
Co-News Editor
Philip Prins/ Union EC President Tom Fallo helps freshman Donte Weaver, 18, undecided major, to sift through the class catalog and find his necessary sections on Aug.27, the first day of the fall semester.
Torrance, California
Final adjustments to EC’s 2012-2013 budget have been made but major questions remain in the wake of uncertainty over the fate of Proposition 30, an EC administrator said. The college is faced with a $7.3 million loss in state funding if Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposition 30 tax initiative fails to pass during the November elections, Jo Ann Higdon, vice president of administrative services, said. “If the proposal does not pass there will have to be major reductions in course offerings,” Higdon said. Up to 300 class sections could be cut from the remaining year if Proposition 30 fails, but the exact number that would be cut was unknown, she said. Higdon said that spring semester could take the brunt of the cuts but that summer and fall semesters would not be greatly impacted. “We really have not cut out summer and fall sections by any significant amount,” Higdon said. “What we have done is enforce our general rule that a class has to be pretty full for us not to cancel it.” In a speech to faculty, President Tom Fallo said the college planned to “cut back” to its full time student cap, which is cur-
rently budgeted for around 18,000 students. “We’re probably not going to have any extra FTES (full time equivalent students),” Fallo said. “That’s what Jack Scott (California Community Colleges Chancellor) said, he said ‘you go over cap (the amount of FTES the state is willing to fund), the legislature looks at us and says you don’t need as much money.’” The 2012-2013 general unrestricted fund was budgeted at $117.3 million, which showed a $7.3 million reduction from the $124 million budgeted for 20112012. Higdon said the $7.3 million had to be taken from the budget so that the college was prepared for the “worst case” if Proposition 30 fails. According to data in the budget the $7.3 million cut was a combination of savings from eliminating class sections during fiscal year 2011-2012, restructuring of employee positions, reducing election costs, reducing administrative costs, and transferring funds from the school’s budget reserve to make up any gap. Another budget issue that had concerned faculty was the possibility of pay and furlough reductions, but this issue had been resolved, Fallo said. “We’ve withdrawn any salary reductions and or furloughs based on budget,” Fallo said,
which was immediately followed by muted applause from faculty. Recently Standard & Poor’s credit rating agency downgraded the college’s general obligation bond outlook from stable to negative due to the planned reductions to the school’s general reserve over the next few years, Fallo said. Fortunately, the downgrade will not have any direct impact on the budget, Higdon said. Higdon explained that there was a “firewall” between bond funds and the operating budget and since the school’s general obligation bond rating was still AA, there had been no problems selling the majority of the remaining $180 million of the 2002 Measure E bond, which funded the extensive building projects on campus. A final budget consideration was the use of the 2011-2012 ending budget reserve of $21.1 million, which was projected to drop to around $15.5 million after transferring money to fill budget gaps, according to budget proposal document. “I’m looking at the economics of probably three years from now. What happens?” Fallo said. “We have to get through three years so I’m trying to space our reserves over that three year period.”
Changes in repeatable class policy require course restructuring Thomas Schmit
Co-News Editor
While changes to Title V course repeatability regulations regarding non-repeatable classes were officially implemented over the summer, similar regulations regarding repeatable classes won’t go into effect until fall 2013, an EC official said. “The policy change for repeating classes you can only take once is now in place,” Dr. Jeanie Nishime,
Vice President of Student and Community advancement said. “Basically, you can only take non-repeatable classes three times, and that’s it,” Nishime added. However, due to the unique structure and position of repeatable classes, policy changes regarding those classes, such as P.E. and art, have proven to be less simple to apply. “Curriculum changes have to take place this year on that, because you
can’t have an abcd class any more, each must be offered on its own merit, so the faculty will have to revise their course offerings first,” Nishime said. Further confusing the issue is that the new changes to the Title V regulations don’t in fact apply equally to all repeatable classes, Dean of Fine Arts Constance Fitzsimons said. “Some courses have been exempt, athletic competition and intercollegiate academic competitive
courses, like the football and forensics teams, they
Also exempt from the new regulations are courses for which transfer universities accept multiple “...repeatability may units of, including classes well be blocking new such as applied music and performing ensemble. students from access The California Community Colleges Chancelto classes.” —Constance Fitzsimons lor’s Office has spent more than the last year and a Dean of Fine Arts half studying the topic of course repeatability, according to a document released by Barry Russell, can still go as abcd’s,” Vice Chancellor of the AcFitzsimons said. ademic Affairs Division.
“Under the current economic and legislative climate, the community colleges have come under increasing scrutiny concerning the ability of students to repeat classes in a manner that is not productive to the goal of increasing overall student success and completion,” the document reads. The policy changes have been made in the interests of both streamlining the California Community College system, as well as
ensuring as high an influx of new students as possible. “One of the primary concerns was that repeatability may well be blocking new students from access to classes,” Fitzsimons said. “We’re kind of looking at, if we can only offer fewer classes, how do we make sure that everyone gets equal access to those classes?” Fitzsimons added.
Prop. 30 could provide up to $213 million to community colleges Philip Prins
Co-News Editor
NEWS LINE
Another budget cut looms on the horizon if Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax increase initiative, Proposition 30, fails to pass during the November elections, EC’s president said. “If it fails (Proposition 30), we have been told in no unequivocal terms, that we will lose 7.3 percent of our revenue, which comes to about $7.3 million,” Tom Fallo, president, said. “The impact would basically be we will be cutting classes.” Proposition 30 would “increase the state’s sales and use tax by a quarter-cent for four years and increase personal income tax rates on income above
By Karly Daquila
$250,000 for seven years,” with 89 percent of the revenue going to K-12 schools and 11 percent going to community colleges, according to a University of California fact sheet. If Proposition 30 passes, the community college system is projected to receive $213 million in additional funding for the 2012-2013 academic year with a funding “increase of at least 4 percent for fiscal years 2013-14 through 2015-16,” according to the California Community College Chancellor’s Office. If voters don’t pass the initiative, the community college system will have to endure an additional 7.5 percent budget cut, Jack Scott, former California Community Colleges Chancel-
lor, said in a press release. “This hit would further impair our ability to educate the workforce that California’s economy needs and push some colleges to the brink financially,” Scott said. “On the other hand, passage of the tax measure would stop the bleeding and help point us in a better direction.” Fallo said that EC administrators are planning ahead for the possible budget cut by looking at some cuts to classes now so that if major cuts come later they will be less harsh. It was still uncertain where cuts in class sections would be made, Fallo said. “We will probably try to keep the winter inter-session,” Fallo said. “We could be cut-
ting spring slightly; we could be cutting summer slightly. We just don’t know.” Fallo said that if Proposition 30 fails he could again recommend winter session be cut, although that was extreme and he wasn’t sure he would do that. “Right now it’s scheduled, the board has approved it, and we have appropriated money for it,” Fallo said. “But if we have a 7.3 percent reduction something has got to go.” An initiative to endorse Proposition 30 was originally scheduled to be voted upon Tuesday, but the board of trustees agreed to table the initiative until the next board meeting on December 17.
Nursing Info Workshop on Campus
Financial Aid Online Workshop
Club Rush Next Week
Those interested in learning more about the Nursing Program are encouraged to attend the Nursing Info Workshop Monday. The workshop will take place in the Distance Education Room from 10 a.m. to noon.
The Financial Aid Department will be having a financial aid online workshop Tuesday in the Student Services Center 204-G. Interested persons maycontact the EC financial aid office at 310-660-3493 or ECCfaid@elcamino.edu.
Students interested in joining a club this semester should take advantage of the Club Rush week Monday through Thursday. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. various campus clubs will have booths on the Schauerman Library lawn for students to gather information about clubs and organizations to join.
Kyle Borden/ Union Students are already lining up outside the financial aid office; if Proposition 30 fails, lines could easily double.
Writing Center will have expanded evening hours
Transfer Admission Guarantee Workshop
Starting Monday, the Writing Center will provide tutoring until 7:40 p.m. Monday through Thursday nights, while computers will be available to students untill 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The Writing Center is in H122 in the Humanities Building.
Students involved in the Honors Transfer Program are encouraged to attend the TAG workshop Thursday from 1 to 3 p.m. in Communications 302. Students in attendance will learn about the HTP TAG agreements. Interested persons may contact the Transfer Services Department.
NEWS
2 El Camino College Union
POLICE BEAT By Karly Daquila
Bicycle tampered with in parking lot J Aug. 29, 11 a.m.—Officers responded to the station regarding a vandalism report. A male student reported that at 9 a.m. he parked his bicycle at the bike racks in parking lot J. After returning at 3 p.m., he noticed that someone had tampered with his rear brakes. A report was filed.
Backpack allegedly stolen Aug. 29, 9:10 a.m.—Officers responded to the Social Science Building in response to a theft report. A male student stated that after leaving his backpack on an outdoor second-level bench at 8:30 a.m., he returned 30 minuets later to find it missing. A petty theft report was filed.
damage to vehicle in hit-and-run incident Aug. 27, 2 p.m.—Officers responded to a hit-and-run case on level 5 of parking lot H. A male student reported that he parked at approximately 9 a.m. and after returning at 2 p.m. he noticed damage to his vehicle. The vehicle sustained damage to the driver’s side front fender and front bumper.
September 6, 2012
Suspect arrested in connection to burglaries Philip Prins
Co-News Editor/Photo Editor
Police arrested a 51-year-old Los Angeles man on July 17 in connection with a string of thefts and burglaries in that began during spring semester and continued into summer, police said. Around $500 in cash, a laptop computer, credit cards, purses and wallets were stolen from both secured and unsecured faculty offices and common areas in multiple buildings since the thefts began, police Sgt. Dal Toruno, said. “After the arrest every-
thing (thefts and burglaries) stopped,” Toruno said. “We are still asking the faculty and staff to remain vigilant in securing their offices and buildings and to report suspicious individuals to the campus police,” He added. Toruno said evidence suggested the alleged criminal was not working alone and was acting as a “middle man.” The Arts and Behavioral Sciences, Music, and Student Services buildings were all targeted, Toruno said. Junnette Farioln, a clerical assistant in the Student Services Center, said the
Center was hit at least twice between June and July. Locked desk drawers were broken into overnight in one incident and a wallet was stolen from a counselor’s office during b daylight in another, she said. “She (counselor) had a workshop around noon,” Farioln said. “Her door was closed but it was unlocked. I guess someone was watching her and someone came in and stole her wallet.” After a faculty member was alerted of unauthorized activity on their stolen credit card, Torrance EC Detective Michael DeSanto was able to identify the suspect
by using surveillance footage from a gas station where the card was used, Toruno said. He said once the suspect had been identified, police found that he was on parole in San Bernardino County and were able to apprehend him during a check-in with his parole officer. A search of the suspect’s residence yielded no physical evidence linking the suspect to directly participating in the burglaries and thefts, Toruno said. However, police had gathered enough evidence to charge the suspect with two felony counts of unauthor-
ized use of an access card, one count of receiving stolen property, and one count of identity theft, he said. “We did connect him to two separate crimes, burglaries, that occurred on campus, because he had those credit cards in his possession,” Toruno said. “We have him on surveillance putting it in, and then also you have to put in the zip code, so obviously he had more information like their drivers license that would show their address and zip code.” Toruno said tracking down and arresting the suspect was a team effort be-
tween police and DeSanto. After being taken to the Torrance Police Department, the suspect was ordered to appear in court in August and released on bail, Toruno said. Police would not release the suspect’s name due to on-going investigations related to the case by other law enforcement agencies, Toruno added. “We are confident that the district attorney is going to file these charges and we are confident that it will be a successful prosecution with the case that the detective (DeSanto) put together,” Toruno said.
Gov. Jerry Brown stops in Torrance to promote Prop 30 Philip Prins
Co-News Editor/Photo Editor
Garnering support for Proposition 30 during last week’s visit to Ramona Elementary School
was Gov. Jerry Brown’s main objective, he said during a press conference outside the school. “That’s why I’m here; to organize, to galvanize, to mobilize, a force that can take this message
all over California,” Brown said. Brown spoke to members of the news media, who accounted for the majority of the spectators, from a podium surrounded by strategically placed Proposition
Officers investigate reported burglary Aug. 13, 7:25 a.m.—Officers responded to the Field House regarding a burglary report. They discovered two door handles missing on the north entrance to the main locker room area. There were two lockers inside that appeared to be tampered with, but nothing was missing from inside the building. Maintenance was notified to replace the missing door handles and locks. Philip Prins/Union Gov. Jerry Brown talks to the news media about Proposition 30 during a Aug. 27 visit to Ramona Elementary School in Torrance. His speech kept almost everyone’s attention.
30 supporters. There was also an EC student in the crowd. “ I’m a student who believes a vote makes a difference and we all need to do our part,” Dayna Johnson, 28, political science major, said. Johnson said one reason she was there to support Proposition 30 was because of the lack of class availability. “Because our community college is so overcrowded, I can’t get the one class I need to graduate, to move on with my life,” she said. The state of education in California was not looking good and “it was time to fix our schools with real money,” Brown said. He said it was time for the wealthy members of the California population to give back to their communities. “Proposition 30 is very simple,” Brown said. “It asks those who are most blessed, those who have done the best in their lives and who have the most money to contribute one or two or three percent to help our kids, to help our schools and to finally balance our budget after ten years of kicking the can down the road.” George Amaya, a fifth grade
teacher at Kornblum Elementary, said that he became a teacher because he believed “that a quality education can make a difference in the life of a child,” but the ability to provide that quality education was slipping away. “We have more students in our classes, fewer staff and fewer materials yet, we are expected to maintain the increasingly high standards that the state and all of us demand of ourselves,” Amaya said. Amaya also added that Proposition 30 wouldn’t completely fix California’s educational problems but that it would help put schools “back on a road to recovery.” Johnson said she didn’t trust the politicians in Sacramento, but that Proposition 30 was what it was going to take to put the college back on track and it was time for students to stop being complacent and take matters into their own hands. “That’s why I’m out here today backing Prop 30, because students need to know this is what we have to do to get money into our community college,” Johnson said. “It’s not up to politicians, it’s not up to the people in front of the cameras, it’s up to us.”
EC offers low-cost vocational training for growing job markets Thomas Schmit Co-News Editor
With nearly one out of every 10 Californians being unemployed, finding a successful career could be a daunting task for students. The college offers training and classes for many of today’s fastest growing industries as a low cost alternative to private colleges. A prime example of such low cost training is the Career Advancement Academy (CAA), which was established as part of a statewide initiative to provide students with practical skills directly
related to high-demand careers. “President Obama has made a big push to bring back manufacturing to the United States,” Naomi Tokuda, CAA coordinator, said. The CAA is a one-year program for students in the fields of welding, machine tool technology and electrical utilities technology. It culminates in job fairs attended by local industry leaders like Boeing and Northrup Grumman. “We’ve had employers tell us they’ve been to job fairs with hundreds and hundreds of students who didn’t have any of the nec-
essary skills, and while our fairs are small by comparison, with only 30 to 40 students, they find it refreshing because every student knows what they’re talking about,” Tokuda said. The starting pay for an entrylevel machinist “can be anything from ten dollars to twenty dollars per hour” and entry-level welding “can be from twelve dollars to fifteen dollars per hour,” Tokuda said. “More specialized welding can earn eighteen dollars to twenty dollars per hour even while students are still learning,” Tokuda
The forensics team warms up for the upcoming debate season Rigo Bonilla
Co-Opinion Editor
Despite receiving a 20 percent budget cut this semester, the forensics team looks to continue its tradition of being one of the nation’s top community college programs. “With the budget crisis, I think it is important to excel to justify the program, but that is not a problem for us,” Francesca Bishop, team adviser, said. “In my thirteen years, we have never finished lower than second in the nation,” “I don’t believe we have had an increase in the budget since I started at EC nearly 25 years ago,” Mark Crossman, team advisor, said. The first competition open to students will be a warm-up taking place at EC Sept. 28 and 29. “The vast majority of the team is new, it’s just to give them a feeling before season,” Bishop said.
“It’s a low stress competition.”. “We don’t have that many second-year members, so my goal will be to bring the squad up to speed, and be sure to establish a cohesive team that will work well together,” returning team member Jonathan Deatherage, 24, political science major, said. While the first warm-up tournament is low stress, budget cuts
serious tournament” called the Double Up was scheduled for Oct. 5-7 and would take place at Azusa Pacific University. Double Up will be one of five weekend tournaments this semester where EC competes against the likes of the University of California, Los Angeles, Pepperdine, and Arizona State University, among others, Bishop said. “We start debating as early as eight a.m., usually nine a.m., and “My goal will be to go well into the evening. Tourbring the squad up to nament weekends are especially grueling, since each day is about speed, and to be sure twelve to fourteen hours,” Deatherage said. “Needless to say you to establish a coheneed to stay nourished, well restsive team. ed and hydrated. Your brain hurts a whole lot after a tournament.” —Jonathan Deatherage Despite cuts to the budget, forensics team member. Bishop said she is confident because of a “top-recruiting year.” “We are going to have one of will force larger team cuts earlier the best teams we have ever had in debate season, Bishop said. so the only pressure this year is Bishop said the team’s “first how to fund it all,” Bishop said.
added. “There’s a major skills gap that’s causing these fields to grow,” Tokuda said. “There’s just some things we can’t do overseas, like national security and quality control.” Schools like ITT Technical Institute, Everest College and DeVry University do offer similar courses for those fields but “if you go to a private, for-profit school, it can be very expensive,” Tokuda said. Even at the Southern California Regional Occupational Center (SoCal ROC), a welding class can
cost as much as $1,000, Victoria Westerskov, SoCal ROC coordinator of job services, said. “Public schools are always cheaper,” Westerskov said. “Private schools have to make a profit, they have stockholders and it’s a business, so they have to do what is best for the business,” Westerskov added. While the CAA focuses on those three fields, EC also offers other classes in high demand fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2020 the demand for registered nurses will increase
by 26 percent, alongside massive demand for home health aides, personal care aides, and physical and occupational therapy aides. Meanwhile, demand for translators and interpreters is projected to increase by 42 percent over the next 10 years, and workers in both fields currently make a median annual wage of $43,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Courses for both interpreter and nursing majors are offered for $46 per unit for California residents, according to the college website.
EDITORIAL
September 6, 2012
El Camino College Union 3
Voting yes on Proposition 30 will help us all neuvering on the part of the governor’s office. The one issue most people seem to be able to agree on is the importance of education. Parents know that a good education is vital to the success and well being of their children. People involved in business know
Illustration by Shyanne Bates
Although the French revolution has settled comfortably into the catacombs of history, the eerily familiar specter of its most feared symbol, Madame La Guillotine, has managed to waft its way into California politics. Only this time, it’s not an angry French bourgeoisie that has his fingers tapping on the guillotine’s well-worn handle but Gov. Jerry Brown. In November, voters will face the choice of either raising taxes or dropping the blade on California’s public education system. EC is facing a $7.3 million cut in state funding if voters reject Brown’s tax increase initiative, Proposition 30. This has already had an impact on EC, forcing administrators to start trimming down the budget. Even if Proposition 30 passes, the only real guarantee EC has is that it won’t instantly lose more state funding. This is better than nothing, but the consequences of the initiative failing measured against the benefits of it passing leaves a noticeable discrepancy in equality. The choice to ask voters to approve a tax increase on the basis of saving education is nothing less than mediocre Machiavellian ma-
mediate algebra. For others, it will take many math courses in order to enroll into the one they need. It is not fair for students whose majors are in the arts to not be able to graduate or transfer due to math. Creating a program like BAM could help students whose major doesn’t require taking many math courses. If EC is going to adopt STEPS to its system then it should allow all students, new and returning, to show their transcripts from high school. It has to be a fair program for all students. The solution to this placement test can be the programs; STEPS or BAM with a course that could allow students to enroll into a pro-
gram like BAM based on their transcripts and not the placement test. If the student feels confident they should have the option to take the placement test or be enrolled into a course that can help them to place in intermediate algebra. The math department is a bitmore strict on the fact that youhave to take math courses without any if’s, and’s or but’s. Math is a required course, students must take it in order to graduate. Whether it’s taking intermediate algebra or a transferable math or even taking the required math course which leads to intermediate algebra, the students must take math. This change will most likely
make students more serious about their college careers. mainly by making sure they study and work hard to take and pass any English or Math class they may need. Placement testing can be a big road block for many transferring students since placement testing is pretty much a requirement for every college, to become an enrolled student. By being organized and dedicated to these classes, students will find themselves more productive and motivated in their everyday classes as well. Everyone knows that math in particular can be very challenging but there are solutions and there is help out there for those who truly want it or need it.
The Issue • Raising taxes or cutting California’s public education even further.
Our Stand • Vote YES on Prop. 30 that a well-educated population helps increase productivity in a state economy that was ranked the ninth largest in the world in 2012. This issue’s ability to bridge partisan gaps has not escaped the keen eyes of California’s abnormally vigilant politicians who are using it to coerce Californians into something that both Democrats and Republicans find excruciating; parting with their person-
al money. Granted, the condition of California’s budget is not pretty and politicians are confronted with hard fiscal dilemmas. The problem lies in their choice to make education the political prisoner set for execution. If the importance of education can be measured by Brown’s verbal support, than its neck should be the last one laid beneath the blade. There is no easy solution to balancing the state budget but there is a solution for giving education a fighting chance. The public can let their voices be heard through petitions, the media and letters to the governor, letting California’s leaders know that this type of political maneuvering won’t be tolerated. They can shout from the rooftops that gambling with their children’s future is not an option and that anyone who tries it won’t have a bright political future. They can whisper in Brown’s ear, telling him to banish Madame La Guillotine’s ghost back to the dark tomb of history where she belongs. _See related article on page 1
STEPS might be the answer to saying goodbye to placement tests English and math placement tests might turn into a thing of the past if EC joins the Student Transcript Enhanced Placement Study (STEPS). After Oct. 1, STEPS conducted by The Research and Planning Group for California Community Colleges, may determine whether or not a student may be placed into courses based on their high school transcripts and placement test scores. This may not be fair to a new or returning student whose transcripts will not be valid due to the amount of time they were out of high school or in any school. Some students are returning to college after a two-year or more hiatus, whose transcripts show
they had an outstanding GPA, but they must take the placement tests to see where they place in terms of math and English. EC offers the Basic Accelerated Math (BAM) course, which was created to help students develop their mathematical skills before enrolling into intermediate algebra. The BAM course may be a good idea but it is not fair that students can only enroll in this course after taking the math placement test. There is no pre-requisite other than taking the math placement test which can only be taken two times and no more after that. For some students, a brush-up on math is all they need to pass the math test and place into inter-
There are tutors available to help students with their studies. So rather than waiting to take these classes or before taking the placement test, if you have to. Students should look to study and learn from someone with expertise on that particular subject. Although placement test scores may have somehow become part of the placement process for many students or remain a preference, STEPS may be considered one of the first steps in changing the placement process. _See related article on page 1
Student Health Services at EC Formal newspaper policy CAMPUS INSIGHT
On behalf of the Student Health Services Center we would like to welcome you all to the fall 2012 semester and to share with you all of the services available for all currently enrolled students. Debbie Conover We are here for you and our S.H.C Director SLO (Student Learning Outcome) is as follows: “Students will utilize medical services, workshops and community outreach programs sponsored by Student Health Services throughout the academic calendar year so that they can maintain optimum mental and physical wellness during their coursework at El Camino Community College.” We are proud to be here for our students and share our services with you. We are open Monday through Friday and offer both walk-in hours and scheduled appointment times. Your Student Health Center is staffed by nurse practitioners, physicians, psychologists, and chiropractors who are here more than happy to help. We offer free and low cost services to all of our currently enrolled students. Free services include nurse practitioners, physicians, chiropractors, individual psychological counseling, HIV/STD testing, condoms, community referrals, and workshops. Our workshops offered include: managing anxiety, anger management, understanding depression, positive psychology and test anxiety. Some of our low cost services include lab testing, vac.
U N NIO EL CAMINO COLLEGE
Vol. 65, No. 01 September 6, 2012
E -mail: eccunion@gmail.com Newsroom: (310) 660-3328 Advertising: (310) 660-3329
cinations, and medications. Walk-In hours are: Monday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (STD Clinic), Wednesday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Fri 8:30 a.m. to noon. We are closed from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch. The Student Health Center phone is 310-660-3643. Substance Abuse Information and Hotline is 1-800821-4357. The Crisis Center 24-hour phone is 310392-8381. The Suicide Prevention Center 24-Hour Phone is 310-391-1253. All of our information can be found on our website. We will also be offering free flu vaccines to our students during our walk-in hours and be sure to anticipate the vaccine to arrive late September. Make sure you keep an eye out for the dates that we will be offering the free flu vaccine. Our website will announce when it will be available. May you all have a productive and healthy semester.
The views expressed in Campus Insight are those of the authors. They do not represent the views or opinions of the Union, its staff, editorial board or advisers. This column is available to students and faculty. All articles may be submitted to eccunion@ gmail.com. Please note that articles may be edited for content and length.
Editor-in-Chief ��������������������������������������������������� Viridiana Vaca-Rios Co-News Editor ���������������������������������������������������������Thomas Schmit Co-News Editor.......................................................................Philip Prins Co-Opinion Editor �������������������������������������������������������� Emilia Lopez Co-Opinion Editor ����������������������������������������������������������Rigo Bonilla Features Editor ��������������������������������������������������� Viridiana Vaca-Rios Arts Editor ������������������������������������������������������������������������� Diane Vay Sports Editor �����������������������������������������������������������������Mary Alvarez Photo Editor ��������������������������������������������������������������������� Philip Prins Advertising Manager ���������������������������������������������� Stephanie Alcorn Adviser ��������������������������������������������������������������������� Lori Medigovich Adviser ��������������������������������������������������������������������Kate McLaughlin Technical Support ��������������������������������������������������������������� Don Treat
The Union newspaper will address naStaff is assured the right to committed editotional, state, local, and campus issues rially upon actions of the administration, the that affect El Camino College students, board of trustees, the facility or the student govthe El Camino College Community Dis- ernment on any issue. trict communities and higher education The newspaper staff recognizes the liability indiscriminately. undertaken in its behalf by the board of trustees, Books, films, plays and other entertain- and remains committed to serving responsibly. ment determined by the staff to be of interest to El Camino students will be reviewed and published.
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OPINION
4 El Camino College Union
September 6, 2012
UP FOR DEBATE
Does celebrating “history months” benefit society? Diversity defines America.
Rigo Bonilla Opinion Editor
Some may argue that setting aside weeks and months to celebrate one’s background is keeping the human race from evolving and keeping us from “change,” but it’s important to do what is needed to celebrate everyone’s diversity. By taking the time to celebrate a group or culture during a designated time, it shows acceptance and appreciation of where people come from. That is what makes the U.S. what it is today: a diverse nation made up from different backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities. Others argue that it isn’t fair that groups like the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual community have their own month to celebrate. It wasn’t long ago that “coming out” wasn’t as widely accepted. We are still in a time where gay marriage and having samesex relationships are frowned upon. Why not let people who are gay celebrate how far they have come and express their love for their mate? There’s also Women’s History Month. Each March, people all over the country celebrate how far women have come. According to history.com, “On Election Day in 1920, millions of American women exercised their right to vote for the first time. It took activists and reformers nearly 100 years to win that right and the campaign was not easy.” Are we saying that celebrating a huge moment like this in history isn’t needed? American women celebrate to embrace their gender and the accomplishments of the women who paved the way. Some can complain all they want that it isn’t fair because it leaves some groups out or behind, but anyone can take part in the celebration. It’s true, people shouldn’t only celebrate their culture or group during the time set aside. It should be something done everyday, but we should set time aside because people live busy lives.
We all live in America, the land of the free, so why not let people be free enough to celebrate whomever they’d like? Americans are all human beings, but to say that everyone is the same is incorrect. That is what makes this country what it is today.
Tolerance for the Babylon of cultures in the United States has grown tremendously since the days of the civil rights movement, but setting aside weeks and months for cultural and lifestyle groups is not furthering the change. “I don’t want Black History Month.
Illustration by Emilia Lopez
Black history is American history,” said actor Morgan Freeman in an interview with 60 Minutes’ Mike Wallace. “When is white history month?” Sept. 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. It has been 35 years since President Ronald Reagan expanded the event to a month, which is ironic, because Reagan’s track record with Latin American countries is horrendous. Glaring examples would be the Iran-Contra affair that involved Nicaragua and the Panama invasion, just to name a couple. Did Reagan only make Hispanic Heritage Month to reconcile his image with Hispanic Americans? Are these history months just being used to cover up years of injustice? If so, what are they worth? “I propose that, for the first time in American history, this country has reached a point where we are can stop celebrating separately, stop learning separately, stop being American separately,” wrote Detroit Free Press columnist Rochelle Riley. Roping off time for individual groups drives barriers deeper. Realizing that we’re all fundamentally the same as a human species, and as Americans, creates tolerance and understanding. But it’s not just racial groups; March is Women’s History Month, and President Obama recently declared June LGBT Pride Month. Just about the only group not commemorated in the year is straight Caucasian males, but they make up almost a third of the population. Learning cultural history should never be limited to a month. We are Americans year-round, so we should learn accordingly. Instead of assigning months, Americans should be focusing on diversifying history curriculum in schools. More than one perspective of the American story needs to be taught to students as basic education. Pride and understanding should be a way of life, instead of a forced holiday.
Jumping into the complete college experience can make school easier
Karly Daquila Staff Writer
Formerly a shy young-adult, I never thought that I was someone who would enjoy being in school, let alone be someone who is nurturing an aspiration to become a well-versed journalist. With the start of the new semester, there are countless opportunities to get involved on campus with like-minded individuals. Many students will get their first opportunity on Monday, with the beginning of Club Rush in the quad. There is also a club mixer on Sept. 14, where students can
By Diane Vay
Society needs to stop being divided.
Viridiana Vaca-Rios Editor-in-Chief
COLUMN
CAMPUS CORNER
“break the ice” and dive into college life. It is a great thing to combine strengths and weaknesses and work together for one common goal. In years past, I would keep to myself. I was fearing fear, and I didn’t want to be in a position where I was set up for failure. I never imagined that I would one day be conducting interviews with strangers, and getting information on their lives. Though I knew what I wanted to pursue once I actually put myself out on the field, I realized how much work goes into every piece that’s printed and how many risks a journalist needs to take. I was terrified of what I was getting myself into. I constantly thought, “What am I thinking?” For many students, there is a common fear of uncertainty, time management and a balance of priorities that may cross their minds while walking through campus.
Often, the daunting fears of financial aid, acceptance letters and choosing the right major may be the deciding factors on whether we apply to the university of our dreams. Fear of failure should not be what makes or breaks our future. Acknowledging that the seemingly impossible can be accomplished strengthens the positive outcome. By separating fears from desires, we arrive at the conclusion that we cannot let ourselves get in the way of what we are meant to do. Eleanor Roosevelt, civil rights activist and former first lady of the U.S. once said, “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” Roosevelt’s words of strength and confidence relay an air of hope to those who let self-doubt get in the way of chasing after
their goals and aspirations. I may not be completely fearless at the moment, but seeing beyond my boundaries is pushing me to a level of motivation I never thought I could achieve. Our generation can often get caught up with being the best and smartest, but as students, if we are open with our own personal faults, we are able to learn from one another. Getting involved in campus activities and programs will challenge me this coming semester. It is nerve-wrecking to be exposing my own weaknesses, but it’s exciting to be growing from the strength that students around me have to offer. The way to grow from within is to stretch just a little beyond our comfort zone. The strength and confidence that comes with reaching beyond limitations are just a couple of the everlasting benefits. By being a part of the EC campus in new and challenging ways,
students can overcome many selfinflicted limits. Getting involved in activities and putting myself out there is my personal weakness, but as we begin a new month and semester, I challenge you to locate your weakness and step beyond your comfort zone. Who knows what strength is lying beneath your doubt?
Please connect with me by email at KarlyDaquila@aol.com Follow me on Twitter @ECCUnionKarly Join the conversation online at www.eccunion.com The views expressed in this column are those of the author. They do not represent the views or opinions of the Union, its staff, editorial board or advisers.
Ricardo Gonzalez President Inter-Club Council
Ricardo Gonzalez is the president of the Inter-Club Council (ICC). The ICC will meet on Mondays from noon to 1 p.m. at the Alondra Room, above the Bookstore.
What is the purpose of the Inter-Club Council? ICC is a governing student body that provides a platform for events such as club activities and social events. It also promotes student involvement and community relations. Most ICC members are founders of a club. ICC answers almost all questions regarding clubs and EC.
Does ICC Have any activities coming up? We already have Club Rush Monday to Thursday. There is a club mixer on Sept. 14, where many of the clubs can get to know each other. Clubs can help one another promote.
Are there any ICC events to look forward to down the line? We are trying to promote Homecoming on Nov. 3.
How do students join ICC? Are there any cabinet spots still available? In order for students to join ICC, they have to be a member of a club. Part of the job is to attend a general ICC meeting and inform their club of what happened during the meeting. There is a position opening, which is Commissioner of Publicity. That job is to make sure that others become more aware of ICC and spread awareness of anything ICC related.
Why should students be interested in joining or participating in events hosted by ICC?
Students can meet a pool of people. ICC offers a wide range of activities and opportunities where you can get out of your shell and create college memories.
Are you looking to change anything or keep the ICC running smoothly? I want this year to be the year where everyone (on campus) knows what ICC is. I want this year to be the most active year in the overall ambiance of EC, with clubs being charismatic and fun. Where students have a positive outlook on campus they can’t wait to attend or take part of an event.
CAMPUS VIEWPOINTS REPORTED FROM CAFE CAMINO
Does celebrating “history months” benefit society? By Rigo Bonilla and Philip Prins By Rigo Bonilla and Phillip Prins
Betty Madu, 21, Business
Masood Mokhlis, 17, Human Biology
Celeste Alva, 18, Undecided
Luis Navarro, 20, Sociology
Ibtissam Bar-Rhout, 20, Computer Science
Cody Shaw, 22, History
“Yes. Some people don’t know about other cultures. It will create awareness, which is a major thing.”
“No. I’m Afghan, and there’s no Afghan month. There’s not enough days to recognize everybody.”
“Yes. I don’t see a problem with celebrating history. It’s fine. It should be acknowledged respectfully.”
“Yes. I think it’s cool. It lets people embrace themselves and where they’re from. It teaches about other cultures.”
“No. Because all human beings are equal. It doesn’t matter where we’re from, just our personality.”
“No. It does more harm than good. A lot of people feel left out, and some people don’t pay attention. It’s a media thing.”
ARTS
September 6, 2012
El Camino College Union 5
ON THE SCENE By Karly Daquila
Art ‘Art Saves’ comes to Schauerman Library From Aug. 8- Sept. 30, the Schauerman Library will showcase “Art Saves: ECC Faculty and Staff Exhibit.” This exhibit will feature the artwork of faculty and staff members who do not pursue art as a profession. For more information, interested persons may contact Ed Martinez, public access librarian, at 310-660-3593, ext. 3876.
Art Gallery exhibits ‘Tropical Planet’ “Tropical Planet” will be on display at the Art Gallery. The exhibit will display the artwork of David and Deborah Patterson. Running Aug. 27- Sept. 20, the Gallery will be having a wal through with the artists on Tuesday at 1 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, interested persons may call 310660-3010.
Theater ‘Korea Today’ will be screened on Monday Monday, Discovery Travel Cinema will be screening “Korea Today”, a documentary narrated by Buddy Hatton, showcasing the lifestyles of Seoul, South Korea. Screenings will be at 3 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. at the Marsee Auditorium. Tickets are available for purchase online or at box office. Student ticket price is $7.
Philip Prins/ Union
Library exhibit will reveal hidden talent The bust of Medusa seems to stare at its creator Nancy Currey, ESL instructor, during the “Arts Saves.” The exhibit is scheduled for Aug. 8 to Sept 30 in the Schauerman Library today.
Diane Vay
Arts Editor
With raised eyebrows, Medusa looks to her bottom-left while her parted lips appear as if frozen in a state of shock. Her face, as well as the coiling snakes on top of her head, may make her appear as though she were once alive. Like other artworks on display in the Schauerman Library, she is part of the “Art Saves: ECC Faculty and Staff Exhibit,” which will be on display from Aug. 8 to Sept. 30. This exhibit will showcase the artwork of staff and faculty members who may be least expected as artists. “Art saves the soul,” Ed Martinez, public access librarian, said. “Sometimes the soul of the campus needs to be refined.” Martinez said people on campus become so focused on their own dicipline and often do not think outside of their own dicipline. “A lot of departments here don’t know each other and so this exhibit is to bring the campus together,” Dwight Ueda, photographer and coordinator of the exhibit, said. “I helped facilitate the gathering of these people.” During the exhibit reception, he said he was surprised by the number of faculty and staff members who participated.
Ueda said the idea of this event was to have people bring their friends and meet other individuals through the exhibit. Martinez said another purpose of the exhibit is to uncover the “hidden talent” of faculty and staff members on campus. “Do not assume that you know everything about everyone,” Martinez said. “There is a hidden talent among everyone.” Aside from possibly exhibiting artwork that could bring the campus together and uncover hidden talent, the exhibit may have also been a way for artists to express their emotions or ideas of how they view the world. “The community colleges are going to get cut by November’s tax initiative,” Brian Krause, special resource center program coordinator, said. Although Krause may be unaware about how the tax initiative will effect community colleges, he mentioned a number of topics that may be considered a concern among students, staff and faculty members. “ There’s a definite concern for jobs, security, and he (Ueda) is trying to get people to talk through art.” Although Krause may be concerned by the tax initiative, Krause’s photo, “Painted Sun-
set,” a photo printed on aluminum of palm-tree sihlouettes against an orange-yellow sky, may demonstrate otherwise. Next to this photo, sits “Silhouette Soulmates,” a photo with silhouettes of Krause and his wife, Kendra during their honeymoon in Maui, Hawaii. “I call it a mini-vacation,” Krause said. “I want to have someone look at my photos and say ‘I want to go on a vacation.” Across from these photos, sits the greenishbrown bust of Medusa, a ceramic made from Long Beach clay, black mountain snakes with gerstley borate and glaze. “It is a white clay based bust of me in fear of snakes coming out of my head,” Nancy Currey, ESL instructor, said. She said she had done research on Medusa to find that she was the target of jealousy for Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare. “Whatever is ugly about you is reflected in Medusa,” Currey said. “It is comedic. She is the icon of rage. My modern image is that fear and rage are closely intertwined.” Currey said she liked the idea of relating her artwork with mythical stories. She said she hopes this exhibit as well as her artwork will
inspire people to see things differently or create their own art. “None of them (faculty and staff who participated in the exhibit) are fine arts faculty and are not professionally in the field,” Martinez said. “They do their art as a hobby and not as a profession.” Martinez said although Ueda did help gather artists together for this exhibition, he has no photos on display. He said because Ueda is a photographer, it may be the reason why there are a lot of photos at the exhibit. “I took a workshop at the special resource center with Brian (Kraus),” Berenice Cabrilo, 36, business major, said. “The first time I saw the photos at his office, I was surprised.” Cabrilo said Krause invited her to the exhibit to check out his photography. She said what she liked the most about Krause’s photos were the fact that they were not Photo-shopped. While these photos were not Photo-shopped, they may be considered a form of “hidden talent” that even Ueda may have viewed as a representative of the purpose of the exhibit. “I would really like to give credit to the people who showed their art,” Ueda said.
Philip Prins/ Union Jazz drummer Hiroki Kitazawa, 21, music major, hones his percussion skills in the EC music practice room. He plans to to transfer to UC Irvine or the University of North Texas to continue his musical education.
International student pursues a drumming career away from home Brandi Woods
Staff Writer
With wooden drumsticks in his hands, he beats the cymbals and the drums as if his hands and feet were in sync. At the age of 4 , Hiroki Kitazawa, 21, music major, began playing the piano. However, he figured that he did not enjoy playing the piano and decided to play the drums at the age of 12. “I saw a poster of a random guy playing the drum set, and decided I want to play (drums),” Kitazawa said. After growing up in Nagoya, Japan, Kitazawa decided to study at EC where he joined the Applied Music Program. While in the program, Kitazawa has worked with Dean Koba, a private drum instructor. “He is a promising student: he’s consistent, hardworking and talented,” Koba said. “He is wise enough to ask for help.” While growing up, Kitazawa was inspired by the drummer Akira Jimbo of the Japanese jazz-fusion band, Casiopea. Once he came to EC, Kitazawa’s source of inspiration became Koba. “He showed me how to be a professional drummer and guided me step by step from when I was a beginning drummer for jazz music two years ago,” Kitazawa said.
Kurt Festinger, jazz ensemble instructor, said Kitazawa is a drummer at his most advanced level. “I have no doubt that he will make it to a higher level because he is a hard worker, and that is what it takes,” Festinger said. As a student who is considered a hard worker, Kitazawa said he spends up to four hours per day practicing on the drums. The number of hours that he may spend practicing on a daily basis may also be the reason why he is able to make positive impressions. “He is natural, fluent, fluid, has an easy confidence and always makes quite the impression,” Diane Lee, 19, music major, said. Aside from making impressions, Kitazawa also wants to transfer to either UC Irvine or the University of North Texas because they have one of the oldest jazz departments in the country. Aside from wanting to transfer to these universities, he wishes to become a professional freelance drummer for jazz bands. “I enjoy watching Hiroki (Kitazawa) perform because he never fails to thoroughly enjoy himself as he plays. The music becomes an extension of his person and the audience can’t help but to catch on to his contagious energy,” Lee said.
RISING
STAR
SPORTS
6 El Camino College Union
September 6, 2012
Warriors fail to connect, lose opening game Mary Alvarez
Sports Editor
Philip Prins/Union
In the first game of the season the Warriors defense came out leading the scoreboard during half-time Royshaun Lewis, free safety-defense, said. “Both quarterbacks, Jesse Scroggins and Nick King, are new to the team and need to get back into their rhythm and connect with the team,” Lewis said. During the game they rotated a lot, putting in starters during the first-half and then just mixing the back-ups with starters Lewis said. “We do have a great offense but the connection wasn’t there, the communication between the quarterbacks and receivers wasn’t clear,” Brady said.
“We will be prepared for the game against Hancock College on Saturday, we will win it.” This season the Warriors first game resulted in a loss, 20-7, against Palomar College, a team the Warriors defeated on Oct. 1 2011 with a win, 28-23. “We were all on different levels, we were not connecting, the first game was a wake-up call,” Luckner Brady, wide, receiver, said. The team practices Monday through Friday, between games and losing the first game means the team has its work cut out for the remaining season. Not only did the team have practice during the summer but also in the spring working out at the beach by strengthening and conditioning to prepare for the
season, Featherstone said. “The biggest challenge is losing football players because they only have two years in junior college verses the four years they get in high school,” Featherstone, said. Featherstone said that each year new freshman join the team and Featherstone’s duty is to have the team function together as a whole, like a family. “There is always work to be done, watch film, break down methods of opposing teams, learn the plays, and recruit,” Featherstone said. The next football game will Saturday at 4 p.m. at Hancock College. For additional photos of the football team, visit our website at eccunion.com.
Defensive tackle Julian Jackson has nowhere to go while being blocked by the strong defense of Palomar college. The Warriors lost the fimatchup in their home opener game Saturday afternoon at Murdock Stadium 20-7.
First game of men’s soccer ends in draw at Chaffey
Jorge Maldonado Online Writer
With preseason over, the 2012 men’s team opening game against Chaffey College resulted in a draw, 3-3. The Warriors led, 3-0, during the first half of the game. “Based we saw this summer we should have a competitive squad,” John Britton, coach, said. Returning this year is Nolan Dean, 20, goal keeper and political science major, who has been staying in shape by working out with fellow players prior to Aug. 15, its official start of practice, he said. Besides Nolan. there are six other players of the 25 member team returning for the 2012 season. “We have dedicated players who are looking forward to the first game because it officially kicks off the season,” Alberto Brisano, 20, midfielder, said. The returning players are joined by new players such as Andre Davey Cervantes, 17, orthodontist major and midfielder. “I am excited to be part of the soccer team and looking forward to having a successful season,” Cervantes said. The men’s soccer team will play its next game tomorrow at Golden West College, however, its anticipated game is against rival Los Angeles Harbor College on Oct. 9, Briseno said. Last season the Warriors tied their first game with LAHC winning its second game against them, 2-0. The Warriors will also have the chance to change last year’s tie against Golden West College with a win tomorrow.
ON DECK
“We should have a solid season and be able to compete,” Ever Morataya, assistant coach, said. The women’s soccer team in 2011 nearly made the playoffs and this season the team’s first two games have been tough. On Aug. 28 the women’s team opening game loss, 12-3, to Chaffey College breaking their season opener, 3-1. “We have a talented group of women, there is still work to be done but the team will get in shape,” Brooke Maxim, 19, undecided major, said. “I feel confident about the team’s capability.” The women’s team played against Taft College on Aug.31 loss, 2-0 by decision. All-South Coast Conference First Team returning midfielder Rebecca Maier, 19, communications major, prepare for the next set of games by working on her technique and possession. “I am excited to play with the team and practicing during summer is helping the team get sharpened,” Maier said. In 2011, Cecy Perez, 18, nursing major, was named Honorable Mention at the ASCC. Perez is a returning midfielder who is preparing mentally and physically for the fall season. She wants to make the ASCC First Team this season. “Working on our communication as a team will make us stronger,” Perez said. “We are preparing ourselves by conditioning, staying fit, and running for physical strength.”
Men’s cross-country team places in top 15 at invitational
By Mary Alvarez
Mary Alvarez
CROSS-COUNTRY Saturday at 8 a.m. UC Irvine Invite
FOOTBALL Saturday at 4 p.m. vs. Hancock College
MEN’S SOCCER Friday at 5 p.m. vs. Golden West College Saturday at 1 p.m. vs. Victor Valley College
WOMEN’S SOCCER Friday at 3 p.m. vs. Golden West College
Kyle Borden /Union
Roxanna Uribe, freshman midfielder, fights for the ball during the women’s soccer team’s first game against Chaffey College.
Sports Editor
Last season the men’s cross-country team placed second at the South Coast Conference Championships at Cerritos Regional Park. This year the men’s team, not only won the 4-mile course at the Venture Invite on Aug.31, but placed in the top 15. “I wasn’t expecting to place first, I thought I would place third or fourth,” Reo Miranda, 17, undecided major, said. Miranda said the 4-mile course was very similar to the Peninsula High School terrain and feels that was an advantage he had and why he was able to place first. “I was very cautious through out the run, I kept all my senses on alert,” Mi-
randad said, “I could tell when another competitor was at a close distance.” Reo Miranda placed first at 22:34, returning sophomores Jimi Duffin placed third at 22:43 and David Rosales placed seventh at 23:14, Dean Lofgren, coach, said. “We were more concerned about the runners ability to compete for the first time, since most of the men’s team haven’t competed since high school,” Lofgren said. The men know they are good and many of the freshman are accomplished young men with experience, Lofgren added. David Rosales started the lead and Reo Miranda started at the 2 mile mark and led the meet by a mile, which normally it’s hard to close a gap like that, Lofren said.
The men’s cross-country team has been working hard to stand out from the rest, with rigorous training sessions and pushing themselves to the best of their abilities even further, Giovanna Garcia, 19, communications major said. The women’s team placed fifth at the Ventura Invite that also took place on Aug. 31. “We knew we had our hands full; we were competing with Antelope Valley and Mt. San Antonio College which are in the top ten teams in the state,” Lofgren said. Nicole Sroczynski placed sixth at 20:32 and Anique Villegas placed 18th in 21:58. “Nicole was leading the pack, she was in good competitive company; I know she will only get better as the season progresses,” Lofgren added.
Giovanna Garcia, 19, communications major, is a freshman on the women’s cross-country team who is waiting to get cleared to participate in the meets. “Nothing comes easy, you have to work hard to get anything,” Garcia said, “This is a bigger challenge than my track and field years, having to run 40 almost 50 more miles and on three different territories is really no joke.” The women’s cross-country team is preparing both physically and mentally for the next meet at UC Irvine on Saturday. “The women’s team is small, it’s mostly freshman and some have no experience with cross-country,” Anique Villegas, 17, political science major, said. The next meet is Saturday at UC Irvine at 8 a.m.