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volume 105 issue 11• may 8, 2013 • santa monica college FIRST COPY OF THE CORSAIR IS FREE, EACH COPY AFTER IS 25C

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Paul alvarez Jr. Corsair

Flyin’ at the Mayan

PHOTOSTORY PG. 6-7

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volume 105 issue 11 • may 8, 2013 • santa monica college 2 contents

E D I T O R I A L S T A F FAmber Antonopoulos ··· Editor-in-Chief

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

c o rs a i r.mana g i n g@gma i l . c omElizabeth Moss ·············· News Editor

c o rs a i r. n e w spa g e@gma i l . c omMolly Philbin ·············Opinion Editor

c o rs a i r. o p i n i o n pa g e@gma i l . c omMerissa Weiland ······ Health & Lifestyle

c o rs a i r. l i f e s t y l e p a g e@gma i l . c omAlex Vejar ········· Arts & Entertainment

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

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

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

c o rs a i r p h o t o e d i t o r@gma i l . c omJhosef Hern ····················· Illustrator

c o rs a i r. c a r t o o n@gma i l . c omAllie Silvas ···················· Web Editor

c o rs a i r.w e b e d i t o r@gma i l . c om Henry Crumblish ·········· Design TeamMikaela Osterlund ········· Design TeamCocoa Dixon ··············· Design TeamGimlet Rivera ·············· Design Team

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

c o r s a i r s t a f fTrevor Angone, Luis Arias, Fernando Baltazar, Vanessa Barajas, Lorentious Barry, Scott Bixler, Raul Cervantes, Sara Cheshm Mishi, James Coster, Jeff Cote, Jenna Crowley, Tina Eady, Skya Eiland, Djon Ellams, Rachael Garcia, Amy Gaskin, Marine Gaste, Manon Genevier, Felipe Gouveia, David J. Hawkins, Sam Herron, Jasmin Huynh, Simon Luca Manili, Asha McClendon, Christophor McGovern, Rona Navales, Andrew Nguyen, Kandace Santillana, HaJung

Shin, Niklas Thim, Eva Underwood

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

G e r a r d B u r k h a r t

A D I n q U I R I E S :co rsa i r.admanage r@gmai l . c om

(310) 434 - 4033

SMC community!if you have photos, feelings or opinions on what we publish, we want to hear from you! e-mail, tweet, or facebook us. [email protected]

Sam Herron Corsair

A Santa Monica College student holds a crab during a visit to tide pools in Morro Bay, Calif on Saturday. The science department has field trips to Morro Bay twice each year.


3volume 105 issue 11 • May 8, 2013 • santa monica college news

For the first time in Santa Monica College’s 84-year history, a student committed suicide.The student, Tian Lu, 30, whose identity

was confirmed by Lt. Fred Corral of the Coroner’s Investigation Division, reportedly jumped from the rooftop of the four-story parking structure at 3:31 p.m. during a swim meet on Saturday.Lu, who jumped between the business

building and the swimming pool on the main campus, had severe trauma to the head and the cause of death was multiple traumatic injuries, according to Corral.“His girlfriend was the one who dropped

him off there,” said Santa Monica College Police Department Sgt. Jere Romano. “It didn’t dawn on her what he was doing there until she tried to leave the area. She doubled back, and by that time he was gone.”Multiple attendees at the event witnessed

the incident and called police. However, since the calls were made on cell phones,

the Santa Monica Police Department was first on the scene.“Upon our first response, we weren’t sure

if it was a criminal act — if someone had pushed him, or what the storyline was,” said Romano.Lifeguard units performed CPR on the

father of two, who was still alive for 10 to 15 minutes after jumping. The SMCPD was the third unit on the scene.“I went up to the top of structure four to

look and see if there were any notes left behind, signs of a struggle, but the top of structure four was completely empty,” Romano said.Lu’s girlfriend and 13-month-old

daughter, also in the car, witnessed first responders resuscitating Lu’s body.“We immediately jumped into action

and we got her away from the body,” said Romano. “We moved her into the business building into the offices. We had two chaplains here to assist with her and her grief, and they brought teddy bears to

distract the child.”Throughout the incident, classes

continued, and passage through the parking structure remained open. The only area shut down was the business loop.When the swim meet was over, attendees

were sent out through the south side and around the building. Screens were put up as quickly as possible, and police officers set up cars to obstruct the view of the body.“The college has a crisis prevention team

that monitors troubled students who have outbursts in class, write and say things that stand out,” said Romano. However, police say that there were no

warning signs from Lu.Romano added that this is the second

suicide attempt he has witnessed in his career. The first was a distraught student who also jumped off a parking structure near the Business Building after not being accepted into Cornell.“It’s scary that someone without warning

could just do this,” said Romano. “We

didn’t have any warning or anything.”Lu’s girlfriend later confirmed to police

that he had been suffering from bouts of depression for the past six months.SMC’s on-campus resource for students

facing emotional challenges is the Psychological Services Department located in the Liberal Arts Building.Following the suicide, the department’s

main emphasis is awareness of the services provided for students on campus, available to any enrolled student.“A key component is to always seek

help,” said Dr. Alison Brown, licensed psychologist counselor for SMC’s Psychological Services. “Oftentimes, when you’re depressed, you tend to isolate yourself.” “You have those types of demons that

you cannot exercise out of your psyche,” said Romano. “You have to have an outlet somewhere else, and suicide is just not the option. There’s a number of resources out here available to students.”

Vanessa Barajas & Henry cRumblishStaff Writer & DeSign eDitor

Henry CrumblishDeSign eDitor

SMC student commits suicide on campus

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Since it was built in 1958, the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium has become a local landmark and a fixture for events in the coastal community.At the peak of its popularity, the building

hosted the Academy Awards. But now more than 50 years later, the Santa Monica structure will shut its doors.“The building is slated for closure on June

30,” said Jessica Cusick, cultural affairs manager for the City of Santa Monica. “City Council has been looking at the building for some time because it needs major renovations.”The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium costs

the city $2 million to maintain annually. Additionally, Cusick said the building is also in need of significant construction before the city could reopen it to the public.Showing its age, the auditorium needs to

be earthquake proofed, and made more accessible to handicapped guests. There are also necessary interior renovations ranging

from lighting to dressing rooms, Cusick said.“While it was state-of-the-art then, it’s a

little dated now,” said Cusick.The total cost of the overhaul is projected

at approximately $50 million. The auditorium is no longer booking events, and many recurring events have already found new venues.The Vintage Fashion Expo, which has

made biannual visits to the auditorium for the last two decades, scheduled its October show at the Los Angeles Convention Center.“We are going back to Council on June

11 to provide them with options to find the funds necessary to raise the 50 million,” said Cusick. “The city is dealing with other capital issues because of redevelopment.”Concurrent development combined with

the high cost of repairs has not left many developers rushing to purchase the property.“Pretty much at this point in time, we’d

have to start from scratch,” Cusick said.The last scheduled event at the facility will

be an International Gem and Jewelry show on June 14 through June 16.

Sam Herron Corsair

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium on Tuesday in Santa Monica, Calif.

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium set to close


volume 105 issue 11 • may 8, 2013 • santa monica college 4 News

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Santa Monica College’s Alumni Association hosted an event called SMC Everywhere on the quad on Tuesday.The event focused on students who are transferring to

other colleges or receiving certificates or degrees from their time at SMC. The quad held several activities, including two photo

stations with a backdrop that read “Congratulations, Young Alumni” and transfer-themed attractions, said Diedre Weaver, assistant director of SMC campus and

alumni relations. The message, “make a plan, stick to it,” was exemplified by

an inflatable velcro wall. A high striker, which is a game that requires the participator to strike a button with a hammer, sending a bell up a shaft, was used to encourage students to “aim high, reach your educational goals,” said Weaver.“Everything is themed,” she said. “Everything’s about

saying where you’re going from here and about succeeding.” The goal of SMC Everywhere is to encourage transferring

students to connect with other alumni at their future four-year universities, said Parker Jean, Associated Students president.

“For me personally, when I transfer, I hope to see some SMC students there,” he said.SMC student Noella Kembo has been attending the

college for two semesters and will be transferring after this fall. Kembo said her experience at SMC has been better than she had expected.“Professors here are really engaged [and] really love to

teach,” Kembo said after she tested her strength at the high striker. “I learned a lot since I came here.”The event also featured a ballon-art booth, which was

visited by many students. SMC student Julia Winoku, member of the psychology

club at SMC, said she was excited and ran outside when she heard about the event.“I think it’s a way to bring students together and have

them have fun,” Winoku said while sporting her new balloon hat. The various booths around the quad were decorated with

flyers that illustrated a student’s journey from SMC to various universities, including New York University, Loyola Marymount University and California State University, Northridge. Edwin Safaeipour has recently been accepted to the

University of California, Los Angeles as a history major after two years at SMC.“It’s a good way to end off the year on a fun note,”

Safaeipour said. “It’s a good thing to have.” Mike Tuitasi, SMC vice president of student services, said

he believes that all students should feel like a part of the SMC family, no matter how long they attended the college. “It’s just telling all students, ‘you are SMC,’” Tuitasi said.

“So whether you graduate, transfer [or] you’ve taken a class here, you are part of this institution, so we want to keep you connected.”Weaver, who organized the event, said he hopes that

students are able to still be connected with each other even after they move on. “This is about saying when you leave SMC, you don’t

just leave SMC,” Weaver said. “You take SMC with you.”

Alex Vejara & e eDitor

Alumni club celebrates current transferring students

HaJung SHin Corsair

Justin Keeling jumps to the sticky wall at the SMC Everywhere event hosted by the Alumni Association on Tuesday.

Associated Students special election ballot initiatives have resulted in four changes to the constitution, including changes in requirements for potential AS presidential and vice presidential candidates. "Every single thing passed, and they

passed by huge margins, except for the [student representation fee]," said Yacob Zuriaw, director of student advocacy and financial support. "And even the fact that it wasn't pushed, it still managed to lose by a little amount. It was almost 50-50."Zuriaw estimates that around 600 people

came out to vote. According to the data, no initiative received higher than 550 votes.The five new initiatives include giving

the Inter-Club Council Communications officer the right to vote on the AS Board of Directors, creating a new position for director of student advocacy, and requiring that presidential and vice presidential candidates have leadership experience in AS."I think it's good because we have more

accurate representation of the school,” said Jasmine Jafari, commissioner to the ICC communications officer and vice-chair of the elections committee, as well as the incoming ICC chair."I think this really ensures that the

students really do have somebody good," said Michelle Olivarez, student trustee, about the new requirements for running."I think it does mean that the clubs will

get more representation,” Jafari said. “There will be another person who is actually allowed to vote on behalf of all

of our campus clubs."Additionally, the director of sustainability

can now serve as a voting member on the AS Finance Committee.AS President Parker Jean noted his

excitement about the passing of this initiative, saying that it will “ensure environmentally-conscious spending.”The ballot initiatives were originally

planned for inclusion in the representative elections, but there was a conflict between the time of release and the AS Constitution. AS rules state that any constitutional changes to be voted on need to be publicized at least two weeks in advance in The Corsair.The initiative that received the most

support, the establishment of a new director of student advocacy position, passed at 84.2 percent.Since the student representative fee was

a statewide initiative, it needed two-thirds, or 66 percent, of the vote in order to pass, and at least 1,700 votes total. It received 53.5 percent of the popular vote."There are a lot of community colleges

that don't have it, but it's sad to say that our college doesn't have it, because we're so great," said Olivarez.But it still goes to show that a majority

voted in favor for the optional student representation fee."If left to their own devices, students

want more representation; they wouldn't mind paying a little bit extra," said Zuriaw."All the little changes benefit SMC as a

whole," Jafari said.

Constitution changes in ASElizabeth Moss

neWS eDitor


5volume 105 issue 11 • May 8, 2013 • santa monica college

D i v e r s i t y is always a great thing to see, especially at institutions of higher learning.Every ethnicity

should be welcomed by colleges. Although race should not be a

determining factor in college admissions, diversity should be

encouraged. As shown by 2003 case Grutter v. Bollinger, the United States Supreme Court ruled that colleges and universities could consider race and ethnicity in their admissions decisions.However, more recently, the court may be

about to issue a ruling that could restrict universities’ use of race, a case before the

justices that could limit universities use of race in deciding admissions, according to a recent report by Reuters.The case was brought up by a white

suburban local, Abigail Fisher, after “unfairly” being rejected from the University of Texas at Austin, according to the legal statement.Fisher believed that her scores were the

same as other minority groups, and her rejection was due because she was not a minority, according to the legal statement.Although determining an acceptance

letter by race sounds like the wrong thing to do, it should be a factor in the decision in order to receive adequate diversity, therefore, the Supreme Court should rule against Fisher’s case and continue to encourage their previous ruling.In Fisher’s case, she must be upset

about her rejection, but she should also understand that higher education institutions need to reflect the diversity of our nation.When it comes down to determining

who gets admitted into universities, admissions officers are most interested in that minimum qualifications set by the school are met. Acceptance thereafter is based on applicants that will further the college experience. Obviously race is a needed factor

because learning with people from a variety of backgrounds encourages collaboration and fosters innovation, thereby benefitting all students.Sometimes money becomes the problem.

About six in 10 Americans believe that money and wealth should be more evenly

distributed among a larger percentage of the people in the U.S., and that two-thirds think the current distribution is unfair, according to a 2013 Gallup poll. Many Americans suffering from that unfairness are minorities.As learned in history class at one point,

Caucasians have had the ruling and the power, and it is time for African Americans and other races to start getting some priorities, even if it is just being able to attend school.The Supreme Court should rule against

what Fisher has claimed. Her sour attitude toward the University of Texas at Austin will dissipate once she is accepted by another university, and it would be a shame if encouraged diversity was damaged because of her hurt feelings.

Opinion

Race should remain a factor for college admissions

With students receiving their college acceptance letters and choosing their schools this spring, the next big question is how they will pay for

their education.The price tag will always be a problem

— 75 percent of college students receive some form of financial aid, according to the College Board — but instead of complaining about it, students should rather know how to navigate financial aid.Applying for aid is overwhelming,

especially when counselors expected to assist are sub par. However, all students should apply for financial aid.Before applying for aid, students should

have an idea of their eligibility and determine the maximum amount of aid obtainable.Most commonly, schools determine

financial need through a free application for Federal Student Aid form. The application asks a variety of questions such as household information and financial data.Students should complete and submit a

FAFSA form before the June 30 deadline. Keep in mind that some schools may have an earlier deadline, so contact the school’s admission or financial aid office to find out when forms are due.As long as an application is not rejected,

there are several financial offerings schools

provide through information on a FAFSA form, such as grants and loans.Grants are free money and should always

be accepted. Loans can be a bit trickier to comprehend, which is why many students are left buried in debt after taking out certain loans.Avoid taking out loans with a high-interest

rate. Instead opt for low-interest rates like Stafford Loans, given on the basis of financial need. Stafford Loans are available as both subsidized and unsubsidized loans.Subsidized means the government pays

the interest on a loan while a student is in school. Students have to pay back loans with a monthly interest once they are out of school. Subsidized loans are free money until after graduation. Unsubsidized means that the interest will

accumulate on a loan while in school. This can potentially add thousands of dollars to a loan over the course of a college career. They are also not awarded on the basis of need and have higher rates of interest. Avoid these loans if possible, but, if needed, an unsubsidized Stafford Loan is the worst of the best loans to take out.Because loans must be paid back, it is best

to keep all borrowed dollars to a minimum.In addition to grants and loans, many

schools offer work-study programs. Students will receive federal paid jobs supervised by the respective aid office based on need, comparable to the on-campus jobs at Santa Monica College. Check with respective financial aid offices to see what

is available.For those who receive a poor financial aid

package, there are other opportunities to receive money for education.SMC offers scholarships to students with

a good academic standing of at least a 2.5 GPA of 12 units or more and must be enrolled in 6 or more units during the semester applied.The majority of students who apply

through the SMC Scholarship Office receive scholarships. However, because a lot of students feel like they do not qualify, the scholarship office will receive only several hundred applications a year, according to Marcia Fierro, SMC scholarship program staff member. “Somebody once told me that counselors

and teachers would tell students that they wouldn’t qualify for [certain scholarships],” Fierro said. “I was so upset when they told me that.”Fierro hopes that people are not giving

misinformation about how to obtain financial aid, and recommends that students come directly to the office to avoid confusion.“There’s a world of cash out there, and

we want students to know about it,” Fierro said.Financial help has received a lot of bad

stigma lately, especially by students who did not know what they were initially agreeing to. However, by understanding the terms and accessing all options, financial aid can genuinely help.

Applying for financial aid?

illuStration by JHoSef Hern Corsair

Staff Editorial

The community must realize that Santa Monica College offers services to help students through dark times, and that these services need to be taken advantage of in hopes to prevent tragedies. SMC student Tian Lu jumped head

first off the roof of Parking Structure 4 near the Santa Monica Swim Center on Saturday afternoon. Although the SMC Psychological

Services office chose not to comment on the recent suicide, the department’s information sheet states that during crisis situations, it will provide immediate intervention.The office encourages students to make

appointments, however, walk-in and crisis hours are set aside each day for students who feel they cannot wait for a regularly scheduled appointment. Often, walk-in hours tend to fill quickly,

and are available on a first-come basis. Counselors are not available on certain days and times. If a student is unable to receive help from the school, there are many other institutions that can help. Foremost, students should take care of

their mental health. Seek assistance if experiencing sadness, losing interest in activities, or withdrawing from friends and family.However small or big an issue may

seem, SMC offers counseling for it.Other services offered at the

Psychological Services office include personal counseling, referrals, consultation, and alcohol and other substance abuse programs.With the semester drawing to a close —

finals week is just around the corner, and college acceptances and financial aid are being considered — it is understandable that students may be experiencing large amounts of stress.Stress is not something to be ashamed

about; everybody suffers from it at one point or another. It is OK to admit that sometimes we need outside help. The Psychological Services office is

located in the Liberal Arts Building, Room 110.

Kandace Santillana

Staff Writer

Molly Philbinopinion eDitor

SMC,here to

help


volume 105 issue 11 • may 8, 2013 • santa monica college 6 photostory

Cinco de MayanDowntown Los Angeles is deeply rooted in Hispanic

culture, which set the stage for Lucha VaVoom on

Sunday.

Tag teams and trios of high-flying masked heroes

displayed their talents at The Mayan Theater to

celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

In between matches, the crowd was entertained

by burlesque dancers as well as traditional Aztec

performers.

With a largely intoxicated crowd at the sold-out

event, two attendees were thrown out before it began.

However, tight security kept a handle on the crowd

and the show ran smoothly.

The only seats in the house were on the balcony or in

the VIP section, but those willing to stand were within

feet of the ring.

Audience members were often surprised by

unexpected visits when wrestlers flew and crashed

into the crowd.

Ten acts and three matches consisting of 12 fighters

within two hours made for a guaranteed chaotic

entertainment.


Cholitito slams Mini Matt Classic.Paul alvarez Jr. Corsair

Cassandro is slammed by El Conquistador.


Estrellita jumps from the top rope to land on Nikki.

mark PoPovicH Corsair

The Crazy Chickens attempt to pin their opponents.


Sicodelico Jr. looks into the crowd after his match.


volume 105 issue 11 • may 8, 2013 • santa monica college 7photostory

Cinco de MayanHowever, tight security kept a handle on the crowd

and the show ran smoothly.

The only seats in the house were on the balcony or in

the VIP section, but those willing to stand were within

feet of the ring.

Audience members were often surprised by

unexpected visits when wrestlers flew and crashed

into the crowd.

Ten acts and three matches consisting of 12 fighters

within two hours made for a guaranteed chaotic

entertainment.


Cholitito slams Mini Matt Classic.


Dancer Carolina Cerisola performs at the end of the final match.


volume 105 issue 11 • may 8, 2013 • santa monica college 8 arts + Entertainment

Chassés and pas de boureés, techniques used as warm-ups in dance, were in the midst of perfection by Santa Monica College dancers in a rehearsal before the spring semester dance ensemble premiere of “Synapse.”An array of contemporary dance styles

will be performed this weekend, including modern, contemporary, hip hop, lyrical jazz, jazz, ballet, and fusion.Director Jae Lee, a full-time SMC faculty

member, teaches ballet, modern dance, dance history, and performance classes. When choosing dancers during the audition process for “Synapse,” Lee considers dance majors who have performance background and experience.“We do take dancers who want to dance

as a profession, that take higher dance classes and higher ballet classes,” Lee says. “We also look at their creativity level. If we see something different about them, we definitely cast them, but we most likely focus on the dance majors who want to transfer as dance majors.”Lee says that “Synapse” is more focused

on the choreographer’s creativity with imagery, and not necessarily narrative.“It gives a lot of room for the audience

to think about what the piece is really about,” Lee says. “It’s about sending the choreographer’s message toward the audience. It’s about giving the audience a message through our bodies, not necessarily telling a story.”Guest choreographers outside of SMC are

eye-catching because of their willingness to help student dancers develop, he says.“I really enjoy [the guest

choreographers] because you really see the students grow as a dancer and a choreographer and it’s really amazing to see that their creative idea comes through on stage,” says Lee.In addition to the outside help, student

choreographers have the opportunity to choose any theme meaningful to them.SMC student choreographer Mawiyah

Dowd says she has been dancing for 10 years and that this is her first time choreographing for “Synapse.”Dowd’s piece is about the journey of five

young girls who all come together.Dowd says her challenge as a young

choreographer is getting her dancers to be on the same page and getting them focused to project her style. She wants to touch the audience’s soul.SMC student Isaiah Chancellor is

dancing in five pieces in this semester’s “Synapse” performance. He says he has done both “Global Motion” and “Synapse” in the past, but decided to only perform in “Synapse” this semester because he wanted to focus more on his technique.Chancellor feels the student

choreographers bring a different intensity to the dances than the faculty.“Surprisingly, they push us harder than

the faculty, and they really want their voice heard in their dances,” says Chancellor.“The student level of performance is

phenomenal,” says Roberta Wolin-Tupas,

co-artistic director of “Synapse.” “The audience is seeing art. This is art. It’s not a recital. It’s not a concert. It’s a beautiful presentation and performance.”Wolin-Tupas says that the dancers are

dedicated, as they put in many extra hours outside of class to rehearse and perfect

their pieces.“Synapse” opens on Friday, May 10

at 7:30 p.m. at Barnum Hall, located at Santa Monica High School. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit smc.edu/dance.

SMC goes modern with ‘Synapse’rona navales

Staff Writer

Santa Monica College’s dance performance “Global Motion World Dance Company,” directed by Raquel Ramirez and Sri Susilowati, left the audience thinking of the difference between wealth and poverty, but longing for crisper performances from the dancers.The dance concert contained traditional

and contemporary dance styles from around the world, such as the Philippines, Brazil, France, Spain, Guinea, Cuba, USA, Mexico and Moldova.Each dance routine explored the

complications and paradoxes of poverty and wealth in a different and unique style.The opening routine, a piece from the

Philippines, illustrated how the character Princess Gandingan, played by SMC student Toni Pasion, escaped through a forest. The dancers held long bamboo sticks and clapped them together to create a stronger and a more dramatic experience. The use of the sticks enhanced the music as well.A live performance by singer Refilwe

Morake made the Guinean dance routine stand out. The narrative of the dance went well with Morake’s strong voice, which was accompanied by Jalani Blunt, Evan Greer and Malik Sow on percussion. The choreography told a story of a poor girl

who met a king and struggled between her former life and becoming a queen.The show shed light on today’s issues of

poverty and wealth, such as in a dance-fusion routine about a young woman’s struggle between social classes. She finally learned that love is the true wealth, and being poor is not having love at all.The narratives of Global Motion were

strong and gave a worldly perspective to the problems that come with having or not having money, a common issue that people are facing every day.The choreographers used the bamboo

prop creatively, especially in the Philippine neo-ethnic routine, where the bamboo sticks are used to illustrate a forest, then a boat, which made the piece stand out and become more dynamic.While the theme and overall message

were strengths of the show, the dancing itself was disappointing.Some of the dancers looked more

comfortable dancing certain styles, but others did not seem to know their choreography well enough, magnifying those who had different dance backgrounds.The next SMC dance performance will

be “Synapse,” which opens on Friday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m. at Barnum Hall, located at Santa Monica High School.

Global Motion lacking Sara Cheshm Mishi

Staff Writer

DaviD J. HawkinS Corsair

Kardale Holland, a student choreographer, performs in his choreography “The Escape” on Thursday in the dance studio at Santa Monica College. Synapse Dance Theater Contemporary Dance Ensemble will perform at Barnum Hall, located at the Santa Monica High School on Friday, May 10.


9volume 105 issue 11 • May 8, 2013 • santa monica college

Before his senior year in high school, Jason Mallek had never played competitive volleyball.“I played a little volleyball in middle

school, and a little recreationally my sophomore and junior years but not much,” said Mallek.A surprise opportunity in his senior year

led Mallek down the road of organized volleyball.“I started playing volleyball the second

half of my senior season in order to play in the Junior Olympics,” said Mallek. “Once I started playing, I fell in love with it.”Finishing up his sophomore season at

Santa Monica College, Mallek emerged as the team leader on the court, offensively and defensively.A middle blocker, Mallek was voted to

the All-League second team in his senior year at Bishop Montgomery High School, and also earned the Distinguished Athlete Award for volleyballMallek credited his father for steering

him down the volleyball path.

“My dad always pushed me, he actually played in college too for West LA [College], said Mallek. “He said I should have listened to him from the start. He’s been trying to get me to play from a young age, but I was always more into basketball and soccer.”This past season, the Corsairs finished

4-13 and did not make the playoffs. Injuries and unforeseen roster changes played a pivotal role in the outcome of the Corsairs’ season.“When it comes down to the wire,

I know the ball is coming to me so I try to mentally prepare for that,” said Mallek. Mallek said he hopes that his play and

leadership abilities will eventually lead to an opportunity at the next level.“I’m definitely coachable; I’ve always

done everything the coaches have asked of me,” said Mallek. “I’m also hardworking. Even in a tough season me and the guys just kept pushing each other. That’s just the competitive side in us.”He said he hopes that a Division I

scholarship is in his future.“I’ll be ready to transfer; I’ll be ready to

go,” said Mallek. “I’ve had some coaches I’ve been emailing back and forth with, some Division I and some Division III. Ideally, I’d like to play for any Division I west coast program.”In the meantime, Mallek said he plans to

keep himself active and in shape.“I love playing any sport in my spare

time — soccer, basketball, just being active,” said Mallek.

sports

The Santa Monica College football team is coming off back-to-back Pacific Conference championships for the first time in three decades. With an especially high turnover rate at the junior college

level, it is difficult to win one conference championship, let alone back-to-back titles. The Corsairs are not resting on their laurels. They know

how difficult a possible three-peat will be.“Right now, we’re reloading for next year, trying to

make it three in a row,” says SMC head coach Gifford Lindheim. “You have to remember in a two-year cycle, you have to replace upward of 65 percent of your roster, including probably eight or nine starters on each side of the ball.”Such a high success rate can lead to an even higher

number of transfers to Division I, II and III programs. Last year, SMC transferred five players to Division I

programs including defensive tackle Marcus Manley, who recently committed to the University of California, Berkeley. Also among the notable transfers is last year’s starting

quarterback, Alfonso Medina, who committed to Weber State University.“We’re the number-one transfer program around,

and we’re about 90 percent local guys,” says Lindheim. “When I first got here, there were 65 out of state guys and they won one game. But things have changed, and it makes it easier to recruit with success behind you.”With wide-open quarterback and wide-receiver spots

this year, the team will be looking at the defense to lead them from opening day. Helping anchor that defense will be the team’s defensive backfield.“It’s the best defensive backfield I’ve ever seen

at this level,” says Lindheim. “Our best returning player is probably safety Qujuan Floyd. He was an All-American last year and he’s a preseason All-American this year.”Joining Floyd in the backfield will be returning

cornerback Donte Brown, who has high expectations for next season as well as personal goals.“My goals are to help set records,” says Brown. “We

have an amazing defense with a lot of talent.”The new lineup will be highlighted by the competition

at quarterback.“The [quarterback] competition is really interesting,”

says Lindheim. “Returning back from last year, Matt Miller, will be competing with Brad Hunt as well as Jerry McConico and some incoming freshman, probably nine all together.”Another notable storyline for the offense is the open

competition at wide receiver.“We graduated our top three wide receivers last year, so

there are a bunch of guys competing at the spot,” says Lindheim. One of the players competing for the wide receiver position

this season is returning sophomore Cameron Stevens.“We have a new fast paced offense; we’re going to get a

lot of plays in and put a lot of points on the board,” says Stevens.Though the offense may seem like a work in progress,

the Corsairs are returning running back Eric Kyle, as well as adding tight end Everton Thaxter, who was a standout at El Camino College last year.“I anticipate that Thaxter will be a strong presence in

our locker room,” says Lindheim. How well the roster will mesh and perform together is

something that is weighing heavily on the minds of the coaching staff.“I know we’ll be talented, but the question is can we

bring it all together, teach the guys our style of football and be successful on the field,” says Lindheim.“Our goal every year is to compete for a conference

championship, and although we’ve been successful the last couple years that doesn’t mean anything,” says Lindheim. “You have to recreate it all again.”

Corsairs football eagerly anticipating seasonTrevor Angone

Staff Writer

High character for Jason Mallek

Sam Herron Corsair

Running back Eric Kyle (right) carries the football during practice on Tuesday at Corsair Stadium. The Corsairs practice every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.

“I started playing volleyball the second half of my

senior season in order to play in the Junior Olympics. Once I started playing, I fell

in love with it.”

Trevor Angone Staff Writer

DaviD J. HawkinS Corsair

Sophomore Jason Mallek poses on Tuesday at Santa Monica College.


volume 105 issue 11 • may 8, 2013 • santa monica college 10 health + Lifestyle

Journalist talks povertyJasmin Huynh

Staff Writer

Ten years after being diagnosed at age 25, Hillary Fogelson spreads awareness about melanoma after teaming up with the Melanoma Research Foundation through her online resource launched in August 2011, Pale Girl SPEAKS."I always say, if you have skin, you're at risk for skin cancer,"

said Fogelson.Saturday's Miles for Melanoma 5K Run/Walk was

sponsored by Pale Girl SPEAKS and Universal Studios. A majority of the proceeds from the 2,200 participants who contributed to the fundraising effort went to the Melanoma Research Foundation.According to the MRF, melanoma is the deadliest form of

skin cancer and the leading cancer for women in their 20s.

Fogelson started Pale Girl SPEAKS as a way to help spread awareness of the dangers of melanoma as well as to encourage young people to have their skin checked.News of the event was able to reach many from around the

state who were willing to travel to support friends, family or anyone who has been affected by melanoma.A cheer team from Providence High School in Burbank

was in attendance to encourage runners at the finish line. Cheer coach Cathy Main decided to participate in the event with her team after a 2003 graduate of the school, Shannon Hayes, passed away four years after her graduation."One of the alumni told us about the race," said Main.

"That's one of the reasons why we wanted to do this.

[Shannon] was such a great girl. The school even held a fundraiser for her."After losing her mother to skin cancer in October, Melissa

Nickelson searched for a run to help support the cause. She and a small group of friends drove from Orange County to participate."It means a lot, having it hit so close," said Nickelson. "It's

nice to know that people are putting support for this cause. I've also changed my lifestyle after my mom. I'm a little paranoid now, but it makes me want to spread the word that it can happen to anyone. It can happen really fast."Participants ran by scenes such as the village of Whoville,

Amityville Island from "Jaws," the "War of the Worlds" plane crash, and Spartacus Square in the Universal backlot.Vendors were present at the event, with some offering

free skin care samples, skin checks, a Style Network “Style Experience” tent with tips on how to prevent melanoma as well as Joe's Shades beach umbrella chairs.Tamatha Von Sherr, who participated in the race with her

family, heard about the event and immediately signed up. Both Von Sherr's father and grandfather had melanoma."My dad had a dot on his ear and they decided to do a

biopsy," said Von Sherr. "He had his entire ear reconstructed after the surgery."Von Sherr's daughter, 10-year-old Akemi, also had a

melanoma scare."I had a mole on my arm that wasn't melanoma," she said.

"But it could have been, so they freezed it and cut it off. It didn't hurt. It was OK.""We've always been self-conscious about [being in the

sun]," said Von Sherr. "My girls are runners, and we take care of ourselves so we make sure they're not going to get any form of skin cancer."Others like Terrance Walker ran to show support for the

cause."I do a lot of events like this," he said. "I love the fact that

it's charitable.""This is my 18th race," said Walker. "I usually do research

to try and find what each event is about. This event enlightened me about melanoma."With a time of 17:16, Walker finished first.Fogelson published a book in October 2012 called "Pale

Girl SPEAKS: A Year Undercover," which made the Los Angeles Times bestseller list for memoirs."I was able to reach a really broad audience of people who

maybe weren't looking for sun safety advice, but who learned that this information applies to them," said Fogelson of her organization's efforts to reach her audience. "It applies to everyone."A new find Fogelson made and now recommends to people

who are looking for effective ways to protect themselves under the sun is powdered sunscreen, which has a brush-tip application. She is also working on an illustrated children’s book to better help kids understand melanoma.


The second annual Miles for Melanoma 5K Run/Walk is held at Universal Studios Hollywood’s back lot on Saturday in Los Angeles, Calif.

HaJung SHin Corsair

Dale Maharidge, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist, shakes hands with a Santa Monica College student at his lecture on his three decades of covering working-class issues.

They tell the stories of those who dwell in self-built shacks made of old billboard placards, who sleep in doorways, or sell their shirts to buy food.Journalist Dale Maharidge, Pulitzer

Prize winner and associate professor at the Columbia School of Journalism, collaborated with photographer Michael Williamson on the book “Someplace Like America,” detailing the lives of impoverished Americans.They have been on the road since 1982

to capture the stories of destitute families, jobless workers and the needy homeless.Their book gave Bruce Springsteen the

inspiration for his songs “Youngstown” and “The New Timer.”On April 30, the Santa Monica College

Associates and the University of California Press invited Maharidge to speak at SMC about his book and give insights into the struggles of Americans who live in poverty. Maharidge grew up in a blue collar family.

His father was a steel worker, and all of his relatives were factory workers.His background was his motive to pursue a

career in journalism and to write about the issues of the working class.“When I write articles, I think of my

family. These workers I am writing about are my people. I like those kind of people,” Maharidge said during his lecture. “But they

don’t have any power. They can’t fight the system.”“But as a journalist, I can give them

voice,” he said. “That passion is very internal. It’s a way to give a voice to the voiceless, but too, from a very personal perspective.”Maharidge said that America has

forgotten about those people. The focus is now on Wall Street and the people who do not care whether they sell and produce in America or India.With the deindustrialization, good jobs

have died, he said. Former mill and factory workers now have to work for minimum wage at Walmart, if they are lucky enough.Maharidge said he hopes his work is

educating people about the problems of America’s declining working class and growing poverty.“[Poverty] is going to get worse before

it gets better. It’s going to be a 300 years process. We are not going to have poverty declining any time soon,” he said. But Maharidge said he had witnessed

the sense of community among these people, which he believes to be a “part of the 300 years process.”“I see community forming [and] that’s

where the hope is going to lie,” he said. “Working together to create something new. That’s the message of ‘Someplace Like America.’ It’s not over-ruined.”

Maharidge said that the current generation will make the difference.“Have hope because every fifth or sixth

generation is a great generation. They face the biggest challenges,” he said. “It’s been

five generations since the Great Depression. I think this generation is different. They know what’s going on. It’s your generation. So you guys, save us from our generation. We blew it, you have to fix it.”

Miles for Melanoma vanessa barajas

Staff Writer


11volume 105 issue 11 • May 8, 2013 • santa monica college Health + LifeStyle

In high school she was teased for her dandruff and breakouts.Today, Mabelynn Capeluj is Miss California USA 2013

and the ambassador for the Walk to Cure Psoriasis in Los Angeles.As stated by the National Psoriasis Foundation, psoriasis is

a non-contagious, autoimmune disease that appears on the skin. It is a genetic disorder that speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells, causing raised, red, scaly patches. External factors, such as stress, injury to skin, some medication used to treat heart problems or psychiatric disorders can trigger the outbreak.Psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease in the

U.S. A little over seven million Americans are affected, according to the NPF.On Saturday, the NPF hosted the annual Walk to Cure

Psoriasis for the sixth time at the Santa Monica Pier, where Capeluj spoke as its ambassador for the first time to share her story.“In high school I had dandruff all over, and no finger nails.

I was breaking out all over my face and scalp. They made fun of me,” said Capeluj. “No treatment was working for me until I was out in the sun and enjoying myself. You have to just accept it and accept yourself and be comfortable in your own skin. Don’t let it take over your life. Let it be a part of who you are.”The Walk to Cure Psoriasis was free and drew over 300

people of all different ages, who either have psoriasis or know someone with the disease, said Richard Seiden, the immediate past chair of the NPF.The event was designed to bring people with the disease

together, show support and to raise awareness and raise funds for research, Seiden said.According to the NPF, the research into the genetics of

psoriasis began in the 1970s. Funds are used to finance further research since there is currently no cure for the disease.Researchers found that psoriasis increases the risk for other

chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, depression, cardiovascular disease, immune-related conditions, and psoriatic arthritis, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling around the joints.According to the NPF, symptoms can be treated with

medical drugs, different medications, or with phototherapy, which involves a regular exposure of the skin to ultraviolet light.However, depending on the medical insurance plan,

treatment can be very expensive. Medication can exceed a monthly cost of $2,500 and can lose its effect when the body builds a tolerance to it, said Elliott Derzaph, chair of the walk.Derzaph himself has had psoriasis for 35 years. He

appreciates the socializing effect of the event.“I have made so many friends. We support each other and

communicate, and know each others' stories. It became an outlet for sharing knowledge and a support group,” Derzaph said. “It has taken me many, many years to adapt to having psoriasis. I used to hide it all the time, but I finally realized that it doesn’t work that way. I am here to live.”Seiden said that the event helps people with psoriasis

acknowledge that they have the disease.“It makes it psychologically worse to hide it. Some

people become inter-focused,” he said. “We try to help them accept it, but at the same [time] control it, so that they can live with themselves and try to make the best of

the situation.”Capeluj also showed her support and encouragement.“The walk helps the people to know that they are not alone

with psoriasis,” she said. “As Miss California, I want to show people not to let it stop them from doing what they want to do.”

“A lot of people try to hide it and are really embarrassed,” said Capeluj. “Through the pageantry, I have to be on stage in a swimsuit in front of millions of people, and if I can do that while having psoriasis, I feel that everyone can overcome it.”

More than 100 people gathered Thursday morning at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium to observe the annual National Day of Prayer.Many religious groups were in attendance,

such as Baptists, Methodists, Lutherans and Catholics, as well as Muslims and Jews.Church, military, business and community

leaders offered prayers for the president, governor, mayor and other public servants

in office.According to the National Day of Prayer's

brochure, each leader was given seven “centers of influence” to lift up in prayer: government, church, military, family, education, media and business.“We believe prayer changes things,” said

Kari Czer, Santa Monica National Day of Prayer co-chairwoman and organizer.According to the NDOP website, over

30,000 events are organized on this day, attended by over two million people nationwide.At the gathering, leaders and citizens

recited the Pledge of Allegiance, sang worship songs, read the National Day of Prayer Proclamation by President Barack Obama, and prayed for the city, state and nation. Prayers were offered for the homeless, the sick and those in prison.On the National Day of Prayer, attendees

gather in prayer in state capitols, county court houses, on the steps of city halls, and in schools, businesses, churches and homes, according to the NDOP website.“The reason why our nation is so successful

is found in our motto: in God we trust,” said

Army National Guard Josh Nolan, who led the prayer for the military. “George Washington, the father of our country, was a man of prayer.”According to the NDOP website, the day

is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation.President Ronald Reagan designated the

first Thursday in May as the official day of observance, Czer said.The Santa Monica mayor and City

Council members were invited to the event, but did not attend, Czer said.Before wrapping up the National Day of

Prayer, the audience closed the event with the national anthem, “God Bless America.”

Santa Monica walks to cure psoriasis

HaJung SHin Corsair

Members of Team Anthony for the Cure walk along the Santa Monica Pier at the Walk to Cure Psoriasis on May 4.

jasmin huynhStaff Writer

Say a little prayerlorentious Barry

Staff Writer

HaJung SHin Corsair

Team Kirbinators and Mabelynn Capeluj (center), Miss California USA for 2013, pose at the starting line.


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