EGIAN TIMES

SUPREME COURT EYES CITY JUSTICE FOR VIOLETA: NO CLOSURE IN BERG MURDER CASE DD DD TALE OF TWO Leepi) ENROLL TODAY

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City College never sleeps. It reflects the drive wards and paint the town red. Live vicariously and energy of Los Angeles to push forward and through his lens with a "Photo Focus" on bur­ evolve. Both City College and Los Angeles offer lesque dancers in Downtown Los Angeles. unique perspectives on education and life. Then tap the brakes and take a breath. Find Palm trees sway against cool dark skies over your inner Chi with a yoga guide that we hope will campus, while a 25 page brief works its way ease the stress of college life and lead you to inner through a chain of other legal pleadings that could peace. And there's more. There is always more at be considered by the highest court in America. L.A. City College. Will the Supreme Court take up the case of Jona­ More than 20 contributors scoured the cam­ than Lopez? Find out what the experts think. pus and community for unusual stories. She says, "I walked the wall, I did it all." Fol­ Dig deep and learn about the campus, the peo­ low the journey that began at City College and ple you pass in the hallways, and where the path UCLA, then led to the halls of the United States from City leads for many. Witness the inner work­ Congress where the congresswoman never stopped ings of a City College that never sleeps. studying. In an in-depth portrait, travel the path of Turn the page. Delve into lives that are sure to Dr. Diane Watson. compel, inspire or intrigue. Meet people who fas­ Steps away from City College, the Braille cinate and command your attention and students Institute helps one student connect to campus life who give you a glimpse of the constant movement and leave the "Saigon Blues" of Vietnam behind. on City's campus; it's no wonder that "This City Read the real-life experiences of soldiers who Never Sleeps." have returned from the battlefield. We salute the student-soldiers at Los Angeles City College who Tanya Flowers are now pursuing their education. Editor In Chief The I Best of the Best" is sure to provide you with new destinations on and around campus. L

ADVISER: Professor lionda Guess

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Tercius Bufete Emanuel Bergmann Emmanuel Johnson Kalifa Madden

Sky Bermudas Stephen Clements Ryan Litchen Roman lift

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Collegian Times 4 Collegian Contents

Best Worst Excuses j 7 Dr. Diane Watson A Q Generation Parent Students say the darndest j • In-depth conversation with former U.S. 1 ^ Raising kids while attending 32 things to excuse poor work, j Congresswoman some call Lady Di. college.

Grade Point Average i O Best of the Best OO Curb Creatures Don't let your GPA get you i ° Campus showcases students' top Hard Landings in Hollywood. 35 down. Give it a boost, j 10 list of places to know and go.

Journey of Insight j A Q Triple Threat 04 Poetry Professor's vision brings ! Triplets move to L.A. with a thirst for 36 new experience for others, j knowledge and an appetite for fame.

Justice for Violeta ! A A Finding the Light 0££ Strike a Pose Instructor Ronald Berg awaits ! 'To be blind is not miserable; not ^^ Find balance and your inner 38 murder trial. His wife's family j to be able to bear blindness, Chi with yoga. hopes for justice. ! that is miserable.'

A Tale of Two Coaches j A g Saigon Blues OQ Museum of Death Former coaches face off against j ' " Leaving home, poverty and the Cheerful owner exhibits 40 the LACCD, City College and j blues behind. uncommon side of death. each other. Selwyn Young and \ Mike Miller take it to the courts, j

Jonathan Lopez j A 0 Call of Duty 30 Geek Tech Circuit split! Ruling by U.S. Ninth I •** Accepting the realities of war. Go go gadgets! Students find 44 Circuit could take the LACCD j high tech at low cost. to the Supreme Court. I

j Opinion O 4 Night On the Town j Osama Bin Laden is dead and frankly, ** ' Feathers, fishnets and friendly 46 \ I don't give a damn! crowd at Exchange L.A.

Collegian Times 5 ARIES: LIBRA: Money. Confidence. New. Courage. Change. Forward.

Out with the old matrix and in with something totally different - with Oh the lessons you have endured over the course of 2010. You're not trailblazing rams leading the way as usual. It's all about new in 2011. Oh, the same people-pleasing darling you were a mere 12 months ago. On and you're going to be rich. Go you! the contrary darling - you are in the midst of a powerful process of cultivating the kind of backbone that makes greatness. TAURUS: Luck. Rewards. Friends. SCORPIO: Opportunity. Adventure. Busy. Your legendary tenacity and patience is truly about to pay off in spades this year Taurus. After a long and arduous 12 years, your luck is returning Get ready to rock it in 2011, Scorpio! You've got so much going for with a fabulous vengeance. Rewards are coming your way, finally. Get you in nearly every life arena, you won't know where to focus first. For ready to meet some new people. starters, you'll have more work opportunities than you'll know what to do with. Double up on the supplements and be sure to get enough rest GEMINI: to see you through this exciting but demanding time. Party. People. Fun. SAGITTARIUS: As the consummate social butterfly of the zodiac, Astrology.com says Romance. Hope. Career. you'll be thrilled to hear that the major planetary emphasis takes place in your social sector in 2011. Expect your agenda to be chock full of parties When it rains it definitely pours Sag - and this year it's raining romance. and events to keep you busily buzzing without pause. So pretty much Love hits a serious high note in 2011 after what may have easily felt it's looking like nothing but party! Be prepared for mingling with many like a dry spell to rival all dry spells. After delays, frustrations and people. Settling down is not happening this year. disappointments in your career arena, the optimistic part of your nature refused to give up on the silver lining. CANCER: Promotions. Excitement. Adventure. CAPRICORN: Transformation. Intensity. Realization. Just when you thought that life couldn't possibly throw any more twists or turns along life's once tedious path, along comes the unpredictable dC Change is your middle name at this point, Capricorn. You've been but exhilarating energy of 2011 (operative word being 'exhilarating'). Be through more personal transformation in the past two years than prepared for promotions and opportunities. perhaps in your entire life. The upside is that you're getting used to the intensity of it all. It helps that you're realizing the futility in holding on to LEO: people and possessions that only stunt your growth. Travel. Risk. Education. AQUARIUS: This is the year of expanding your mental and physical horizons, Leo. Learning. Thrills. Fast-paced,. Expect loads of travel and awesome adventure in 2011, especially between March and June when a barrage of planets enter fellow fire A series of breakthroughs in consciousness happen for you in 2011. sign, Aries, sparking your sector of foreign travel and higher education. Slowing down those genius synapses may not be an option, but with If you're ready to exceed your current plateau, take the plunge. Nothing so much mental exuberance, why would you want it to stop? In 2011 ventured, nothing gained. Bou're on a crazy crash course intensive to learn everything you can rabout... well... everything! VIRGO: Wealth. Success. Work. PISCES: Happiness. Savings. Dreams. 2011 is all about showing Virgo the money. Being the bona fide workaholic ofthe zodiac, you have certainly earned your right to demand Like awesome '80s mega-group Journey, don't stop believing, Pisces! the six figures through long hours and heaps of your own blood, sweat This year is nothing short of miraculous, filled with all-things sublime. and tears over the past several years. You're leaving many aspects of Take advantage of lucky Jupiter's final hurrah in your sign at the start your old self behind in order to become a better and more authentic of the year. This is the year to build your resources, fatten your savings version of who you really are. account, and stash money away for some of your bigger dreams.

Collegian Times 6 Dr. April Pavlik Psychology Department "Couldn't make it to the test because I injured myself at a party, at • • • a funeral and was taken to the E.R. "#

Professor George Dekermenjian • Math Department raft • "I didn 't know I hadj^ dg yll ofthe homework." f Professor Ronald Kendis J Math Department "A student who apparency owned a ranch came to me and said, 'I couldn't make it to the test because my cattle stampeded.'" Everyone can agree that life in Los Angeles can be filled with an assortment of great random events thatBES T sometimes can be absurd. Apparently, Dr. Tom Duffy so are the excuses that professors at City Law Department College hear for assignments not turned "It's in the computer in. Judging by the worst excuses theseWORS T and I can't get it out. professors have heard, some City College students live dangerous lives that lead them to the emergency room and get them caught in cattle stampedes (there areEXCUSE S cows in LA. ?). While attendance at a funeral is unfortunate and therefore hard to call someone's bluff on, some of these excuses are just downright pathetic. Things happen, classes and assignments are missed, but whatever you do, stay clear of these excuses. Dr. Merrill Eastcott ' Compiled by Roman Bolotin Dean, Academic Affairs Photos Abimael Rivera "Didn't know it was*n^ responsibility. You mean I was responsible? But I showed up for every class."

Assistant professor ^¥^1 Sean Phommasaysy Biology and Earth Sciences "Did it but H&ftit at hprue. Missed thetraity Jrqjpff " V

Collegian Times 7 STUDENTS CONCERNED ABOUT GPA

By Mirella Castaneda Illustration by Jose Tobar

Whether students make the Dean's List or end up on academic probation, there is increasing pressure to earn and maintain an exceptional grade point average.

Your grade point average (GPA) determines the dif­ complete assignments. ference between receiving a scholarship to the college of 'Tm struggling in class because it's complicated to get your dreams, or having to suffer the repercussions of low the work done and I haven't had time to catch up," Rodriguez grades. Many students find their academic course load too said. "[Professors] give so much work with so little time to do heavy to handle. it [They] need to space out the quizzes and stuff. I can't be rushed. I really want to improve my GPA" "I'm actually doing pretty bad at the moment," said Lisa Jackson, an LACC student whose major is undecided. "Every­ Editors at pickthebrain.com offer seven strategies for rais­ thing is happening so fast It's like we have a test every week ing your GPA, and nonstop studying is not the key. Disciplined and I can't keep up. I have a job so I can't study every night." study habits are important Colleges enforce policies that penalize students whose 1. Go to class - When you skip class you fall behind and GPA's fall below 2.0. Students with low grades may be subject miss out on important concepts. Skipping class also hurts your to academic or progress probation. reputation. If you miss class you may be perceived as someone who lacks respect for the professor and the course. Why should According to Maury Pearl, associate vice chancellor for you receive the benefit of the doubt and a C+ rounded up to a the Los Angeles Community College District, in fall 2010, B- when you skip class? there were approximately 12,500 students district-wide on probation. 2. Sit in the front ofthe class - Not only will sitting in the At City, there were approximately 1,500 students on pro­ front row increase your self confidence, but it will make you bation. That is about nine percent of the student body popu­ feel as though you are part of the class. This simple step will lation. Some wonder whether the importance of a high GPA help you concentrate and focus. is necessary. Community college students often have many 3. Take notes by hand - If you take notes by hand it will responsibilities outside of school, including full-time jobs or improve your grades because it forces you to pay attention. children. Also, the physical act of writing helps memorization. If you take notes, you'll find it much easier to stay engaged. Your "My picture ofthe typical City College student is some­ notes also provide a point of referencetha t will help you build a one who has one, two or three jobs, children, parents, grandpar­ mental link between a written concept and the professor's ver­ ents, any or all ofthe above to look after and they are still going bal explanation. to school to get [an] education," math professor Ron Kendis said. "If you are willing to go to school to get the education, 4. Review weekly - A common problem for students is you should take a steady load that will enable you to do the trying to learn an enormous amount of material right before an homework. Taking a class without preparing for it doesn't work exam. This is practically impossible. It is easier if you take a too well." gradual approach to studying. Review your notes at least once a week, starting from the beginning ofthe course. This only takes Music major Maria Rodriguez said that she has a low 15 to 20 minutes. GPA because classes are overcrowded. She says as a result, it is difficult to concentrate during lectures because the majority 5. Go to office hours - Professors usually make them­ of students are textingo r browsing the Internet selves available at regulartime s during the week for students to ask questions about assignments. Do yourself a favor by taking Rodriguez also feels that some professors assign too advantage of this opportunity. This will motivate you to get much work and set unrealistic time frames for students to

Collegian Times 8 ahead on your work. It is also a great timet o ask questions. and finds herself bored. 6. Find smart people to work with - Ibis is essential. In She does not like the required courses that do not pertain courses that involve group work, working with smart people to her major. She feels that once she transfers and can enroll will facilitate discussion. The best way to understand an idea is in courses in the area of her major, she will be able to focus talking about it with other intelligent people. It's also a great way more on her GPA. to connect with people who have similar interests and ambitions. Your GPA can determine the type and quality of educa­ 7. Avoid all-nighters - It does not work! If you pull an tion to which you have access. all-nighter, it means that you fell behind and need to cram "It reflectsyou r academics. How good you've done in weeks of work into one or two days. All-nighters harm per­ your classes, and colleges want students who are determined formance because they make you tired and stressed. You'll to be successful in life," said Jessica Casenas, a Transfer Cen­ also forget most of what you learn right after the test, which ter Representative. "The colleges also look at your extracur­ affects the value of your education. ricular activities, like, if there [are] any gaps in your academic Students who are overwhelmed with the pressure of [record], in your transcripts. So it depends on a lot of things. attending college while juggling other responsibilities, have It's not just the GPA" plenty of resources available to ease their anxiety at LACC. The average GPA of transfer students admitted to the UC "We have so many ways that students can get help here system is 3.3 and 2.8 in the Cal State system. The GPAs vary learning the material. If you are working and don't have time at City. That's one of our highlights," Kendis said. "If they widely from campus to campus. They can also vary depend­ to study, maybe it's better that you don't take that class. It's a have a learning or physical disability, there is the OSS [Office ing on major, according to the Daily Princetonian website. harsh way of looking at it, but it's better than setting yourself of Special Services]. For everybody, there is Learning Skills If students do not feel the need for tutors or mentors, up for failure." in the basement of the Learning Resource Center. There are they can still study at home. Irina Yakubin, a UCLA alumnus When students apply to transfer, some schools are un­ tutors and assistants... [many] students do not take advantage and employee for the Center for World Languages at UCLA, derstanding when it comes to low GPA's. of group study, which is one of the most effective ways to agrees that, this is a very effective tool for passing classes and "Everybody's circumstances are different and one ofthe learn something." learning materiaL best ways to show this to a school, and this I know from ex­ Not everyone at City is having a difficult time keeping "I had a job and was helping my mom take care of my perience, is by showing what your circumstances are in your up with their curriculum. brother and still managed to have a very high GPA, about a admissions essay," Yakubin said. "This is where you show "I'm doing OK. My classes aren't too hard and my GPA 4.0," Yakubin said. "So I really buckled down and studied." what's going on so they can see the whole picture, if you is pretty good," said Mike Stuart, a nursing student 'Tf you take a class and you meet for three hours during have kids, if you have to work through college." For more English major Erica Ponce says that her low GPA is the week twice a week, that leaves you 165 hours in the week information on effective strategies to raise your GPA, go to due to the fact that she doesn't really like any of her classes that you aren't in class," Kendis said. 'You really should be pickthebrain.com.

Collegian Times 9 S INSIGHT

The twists and turns ofthe dusty mountain bike trail are a reflec­ tion of her life. Through persever­ ance and sacrifice, her life sets an example of selflessness and shows how sincere gratification can reward the soul.

By Becky Patterson Courtesy of Paul Herold

For Christine Tinberg, a physical education and health in­ The constant moves from city to city, exposed her to of teaching physical education there, another journey was structor, sports enthusiast and avid traveler, most days are filled cultural diversity and helped her gain perspective on how she about to begin. with self-sacrificing duties associated with "Bicycling Blind." could influence the lives of others. She was approached about an opening as an instructor She launched the non-profit organization in January 2009. The at Los Angeles City College in the physical education depart­ group works diligently to increase the number of visually im­ THE TEACHER'S PATH ment teaching RE. and health. Taking on this new opportunity paired and blind bike riders through the use of tandem bicycles. "I never wanted to be a teacher, no way, I wanted to be an presented a new challenge. When she was a child, she spent many days after school archeologist... but life has a way of surprising us," she said. "The first year I was here, I don't know how I survived. on the basketball court, the putting greens or riding horses on "My Mom was a third grade teacher and I could never under­ I would get home from school, after a day of teaching, and go the dusty mountain trails. Most ofthe time though, she pedaled stand how she could keep up." straight to bed. I was so tired," Tinberg said. her road bike through a quiet suburban neighborhood. By the time she finished grad school at Pepperdine Uni­ A typical day of teaching at LACC meant encountering "As a kid I always wanted to be outside," she said. "Play­ versity, she says her purpose became a little clearer. students from all walks of life. The demographic pushed her ing has always been my primary hobby." Tinberg spent her time at Pepperdine sorting through to new levels of understanding and patience with every lesson Growing up for her meant more than bumps and bruises. joy and confusion. One year into grad school, the news of her taught She played with dolls and rode bikes on hot summer nights. parents divorce brought heartache. While most students were She also grew up having to uproot her whole life every few studying for mid-term exams or planning the next party, she LESSON LEARNED years to a brand new city. was battling severe depression. Her capacity to learn from others is something she can­ She found refugei n her studies. Although, several Ph.D. not live without Tinberg says adapting has been a part of her A CHILDHOOD ON THE MOVE programs accepted her application, something was missing. growth and LACC has provided her with a new respect for "At one time I counted up how many homes I lived in, Her greatest fear was to be stuck in a medical lab away from other people and the hardships they face. including apartments, and I think I'm on 22 right now," Tin­ the world. She had a revelation. 'T'm not as naive anymore — I can talk to anybody now. berg said. I'm not so self-righteous. I look at teaching as a ministry," Tin­ Moving when you are a child can be a challenge, but for TEACHING OTHERS berg said. Tinberg it became a way of life. She was bom in Oklahoma Tinberg wanted to educate people about exercise and She recalls another time when she learned from others. and raised in Kansas and Florida. Her father's career required fitness. This was her opportunity to integrate her passion for The most profound moment in her life was teaching physical the family to move every three to four years. Her mother was a sports and wellness into a career. Her new focus of education education in Romania for five months in an orphanage. teacher. Tinberg meanwhile dreamed of being an archeologist, shifted to exercise science. "Working in an orphanage was emotionally traumatic, an astronaut or a pediatrician. " I found myself really enjoying the study of exercise sci­ but at the same time exhilarating," Tinberg said. "I knew there Life became unsettling for Tinberg. The ability to ence. I also got to go to grad school for free because I taught as was a need but had no idea I would have seen so much poverty adapt and find joy in each new hometown was crucial. She a teacher's assistant" and abuse." felt she had little in common with her younger sister. Some In what felt like the blink of an eye, grad school for At this point Tinberg was changed forever. She vowed to friendships proved unpredictable, so she became indepen­ Tinberg came to an end. Much to her surprise, Pepperdine take lessons learned and put them to use, not only in the class­ dent at a young age. invited Tinberg to teach. She accepted and after seven years room, but also in everyday life.

Collegian Times 10 Tandem bicyclists gather at the starting line to kick off a group ride for the United States Blind Tandem Cycling Connection. INSPIRATION By Kalifa Madden are paired together based on height and weight. Photos by Luca Loffredo A few groups go for practice rides in the lot. This helps synchronize the correct position of the pedal, which is impor­ Tandem bikes decorate the parking lot of the Pacific tant to prevent accidents at the start. The rehearsal eases the Union Conference building in Westlake Village. Captains, nerves of some riders. who are experienced cyclists that ride on the front of the dou­ For Larcy Matthews, this is her first timeeve r complet­ ble-seated bike adjust gears and check tires. They are dressed ing a ride on a bicycle. She heard about the program through uniformly in bright red, blue and yellow cycling gear, which the National Federation ofthe Blind (NFB). displays their athletic, toned bodies. "When I was younger I had a phobia 'cause when I The stokers ride on the back of the tandem. For this first tried riding a bike, I fell," Matthews said. "I had a big particular group, they consist of blind and visually impaired cut on my knee, so I said I won't take a ride again. Now I riders. They are smiling and eager as they shake hands and said: 'Let me try. There's no more fear. I said since we're make connections with their captains. all blind, let's try.'" There are enough smiles to go around to brighten Participants include members of the Believers on the day. Mountain Bikes, a Christian cycling organization located As everyone begins to arrive, riders receive nametags in Ventura County. Other groups are, The Blind Stokers and sign waivers. Volunteers assist with posting banners and Club, The Canejo Valley Cyclists, members of World Ac­ pitching tents. They also help cyclists fit the right sized hel­ cess for the Blind, the NFB, students from the Oak Chris­ met and distribute water bottles. The networking begins. tian High School and volunteers and friends. Some captains and stokers meet for the first time. They

Collegian Times 11 Christine Tinberg, an assistant professor in the de­ As the event comes to an end, the day is no longer that often get a little looked over and neglected, especially partment of physical education at Los Angeles City Col­ overcast and the sun is beginning to shine. The stokers and in the area of being physically active," Tinberg says. "For lege, has attracted national interest in her new non-profit captains share their inspirational stories and are able to up­ me this gives me an immediate satisfaction, you know when organization. lift each other through Tinberg's work. I see people smiling on the bike and making new friends, On this day, the program kick starts its first ever "We're changing the world for a community of people getting to share that with them." group ride for The United States Blind Tandem Cycling Connection (USBTCC). Although Tinberg has conducted other group rides, this event marks the birth of her vision. It all started when Tinberg developed a desire to con­ nect blind and visually impaired students with the world of physical fitness. Her desire grew and the idea came to her one day as she drove in her car. She would develop an organization to connect sighted cyclists with blind or visually impaired persons who wanted to ride. "Driving in the car across the desert, I said, 'Lord this is really on my heart, what can I do?' Then it came to me, create a website so people can find each other across the entire country," Tinberg says. "So that's what started it and then it just kept snowballing." USBTCC launched their website bicyclingblind.org in January 2010 and now boasts more than 450 registered users across the United States. The first ride went as smoothly as Tinberg could have hoped. Her goal for the site to connect sighted cyclists with visually impaired or disabled persons interested in becoming physically active proved to be a success. The trail located in the Westlake Village section of Ventura County presents a serene and picturesque back­ drop for the premier event. The route takes the couples riding on the tandem, six miles around a lake, for 20 min­ utes per ride at 15 mph. City College student Shahrzad Saeedabadi met Tin­ berg through her website. While Jorge Mendoza, another City College student learned of Tinberg's organization through employees at the LACC Office of Special Ser­ vices. They are both thrilled to be involved in the first ride of the program. Saeedabadi who is legally blind and walks with a cane, enjoys helping others who are visually impaired. She realized that they could be physically active despite a disability. "I'm very happy because I can do the things for some of the people which they think is impossible ... I'm in this place because I decided to do it... nothing is an obstacle for me," Saeedabadi said. "I like to see how the human beings match together and try to help others enjoy life the same as them." One of the main focuses for the tandem captains and stokers is to develop trust. The greater the trust, the easier it is for the riders to focus on balance. Saeedabadi met her captain, James Hickey, through the USBTCC website. She says the chance to develop a bond with him makes her riding experience even more enjoyable. She is confident that others will realize their ability to be physically active as well. "I'm sure it's going to be successful. As a team we can work together, we can teach other how this life is beautiful," Saeedabadi said. "This is the reality now, what can I do for myself now? Whatever I can do, I do it now. Whatever is going to happen is going to happen. We live now." Mendoza, a kinesiology major, has a different story. He lost his right leg in November 2010 and received his first prosthesis in February, the following year. He was looking for a way to become physically active when he was given Tinberg's information. According to Mendoza, only one in 10 amputees is physically active. After completing his first six-mile cycle at the event, Mendoza is thankful for all of Tinberg's hard work. "It feels like it's mental and physical and it renews you. I feel full of energy right now," Mendoza said before going for a second ride. Christine Tinberg changing her world with the help of others. Collegian Times 12 Now available in LACC Books-N-More Your On Campus Store

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Collegian Times 13 MO JUSTICE NO PEACE Abner Monleon, brother of murder victim Violeta Monleon-Berg speaks to Collegian Times reporter Emanuel Bergmann Photo of Violeta Monleon-Berg, courtesy of Abner Monleon

Collegian Times 14 through the legal system. Monleon looks out of place in the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Building in Downtown, amid a seemingly end­ less stream of parole violators and drug offenders. He is sur­ rounded by clerks, police officers and attorneys dragging suit­ cases filled with files and carrying Starbucks cups. Monleon continues to hope for resolution through the By Emanuel Bergmann courts. Photo by Luca Loffredo "I am disappointed in the justice system," Monleon says. "It does not work for our side." bner Monleon's world collapsed after the murder The lengthy process of pre-trial hearings has slowed due of his sister. to scheduling conflicts with other cases, the court date was Monleon is a soft-spoken and unassuming man, a re­ recently moved once again as the third anniversary looms for tired laboratory scientist who celebrated his 65th birthday this the victim's family. spring. He and his family came to this country from the Philip­ This experience is not unique. pines, looking for better opportunities in life. 'The victims and secondary victims, the family, are of ab­ For years, Monleon and his sister lived quietly in the solutely no importance to the system," says Dr. Richard Lewis, same condominium building in the Mid-Wilshire district of Los a law professor at City College. 'The court system is not de­ Angeles. signed to even acknowledge the victim's sorrow. When victims Then on Sept. 28, 2008, everything changed. Police say have expectations of justice and closure, it likely creates even Violeta Monleon-Berg was murdered by the man she had been more frustration." married to for two decades, Ronald Leroy Berg, a former LACC As the justice system plods along, Monleon continues economics instructor. According to Monleon, his sister woke up to hope for closure. However, he is feeling increasingly frus­ early that day, as usual, and went into a smaller guest bedroom trated. His view is shared by victims' rights advocacy groups to watch TV. Her brother says she was a devout Catholic who who claim that federal and state resources have been insuf­ enjoyed watching religious programming. ficient to meet the substantial and complex needs of crime She fell asleep on a daybed. According to police officers, victims. she woke up to see her husband standing over her with a knife Agnes Gibboney, a Southern California activist for the na­ in his hand. As he began the attack, she pleaded for her life. tionwide organization Parents of Murdered Children (POMC) Berg stabbed her to death. The condominium that the cou­ feels that the rights of the defendant seem to outweigh the ple had called home became a crime scene. Blood was splat­ rights of the victim. tered all over the room. The coroner found 32 knife wounds. 'The justice system is failing victims miserably," Gibboney Injuries were so severe that Violeta's neck was broken. After says. "It's agonizing. Every time you have a new court date, the murder, Berg went to the phone and called the police. you're opening old wounds. You can't sleep, you can't eat. It's A short while later, Monleon saw policemen standing in devastating." front of his sister's unit. When he asked what was happening, Gibboney's own son, Ronald, was shot in 2002 at age 29. he was told there was an investigation. His murder prompted her to get involved with POMC, an orga­ 'They told me they found my sister dead," Monleon says. nization that provides support and assistance to friends and "Her husband confessed to the murder." family of homicide victims. Berg claims that his wife had threatened to leave him, a As long as there is no conviction, Monleon and his family claim that the victim's family disputes. are unable to find inner peace. During the funeral, her family was stunned by how many Until the trial finally begins, Monleon says he will remain people had come to pay their respects, walking in and out of haunted by memories. He recalls his last journey with his sister. the funeral home over the course of the afternoon. Monleon- They had gone to Europe and visited the small French town Berg had worked in a hospital, and not only her colleagues, of Lourdes, a holy site for many Catholics. The town is known but also the hospital supervisors had come to bid her farewell. for its alleged miraculous healings. So far, healing has eluded "She was a very quiet woman" Monleon says. "She would Monleon. To this day, he finds it difficult to look at photographs not get agitated, she would not fight. Instead, she let you say from their trip. your piece and she would pray. She would say: 'God will forgive He has lost weight and has not been sleeping well, fre­ you for what you are trying to do to me.'" quently waking up from nightmares. For Monleon, forgiveness does not come that easy. "I have anxiety attacks," Monleon says. "I have to see my "I imagine she would forgive her husband. Forgive, but not doctor about it ... I cannot adjust to it ... Almost every day I forget," he says. saw my sister standing in the hallway. She would walk past my Nearly three years have passed since the murder. In the door, or I would walk up to her place and share food I bought interim there has been a parade of judges, bailiffs and at­ at the grocery store ... She did not die in a normal way. She torneys at court hearings, as the murder case slowly moves was taken."

Collegian Times 15 THE TALE

In the case of Selwyn Young v. LACCD, Young prevailed on claims for whistleblower retaliation, retaliation for opposing discrimination and failure THE ANATOMY to prevent retaliation. OF A TRIAL By Tanya Flowers "I have seen financial expert and patent cases bill Illustration by Jose Tobar $450,000 and I've seen experts bill as little as a few hun­ dred. It depends on the extent of work they're going to do Former head baseball coach and adjunct instructor for and the expertise," Tiktinsky said. Los Angeles City College Selwyn Young was awarded $1.2 million in a verdict reached in a Los Angeles Superior Court THEJURY room on Feb. 16,2011. Jury members are often the focus of legal battles. In Young began to work for City College in February Young's case, the jury of seven men and five women 2006 and continued until he was terminated in August 2008. filled the jury box to begin deliberations on Feb. 16, According to court documents, Young was an instruc­ 2011. Most jury members listened intently to both the de­ tor at City College for six consecutive semesters and was fense and plaintiff while they presented their cases. Still one semester away from being on the seniority list. others went in and out of playing crossword puzzles. The While employed within the Los Angeles Community case that was originally scheduled for 12 days stretched College District (LACCD), Young made an extensive list into five weeks. As a result, at least two members of the of accusations that included the misappropriation of educa­ jury stepped down. tional funds, racial discrimination and sexual harassment. Jurors examined the evidence, which included color In the case of Selwyn Young v. LACCD, Young pre­ photos of shredded documents on the floor of the athletic vailed on claims for whistleblower retaliation, retaliation for department at LACC, white binders filled with Xerox cop­ opposing discrimination and failure to prevent retaliation. ies of purchase orders and testimony from witnesses for both the plaintiff and the defense. EXPERT WITNESS The verdict was reached after five hours of delibera­ Expert witnesses for the plaintiff included economist tions. advisor Dr. Joy PickersghT, management practice expert D. Attorney for the plaintiff Louis Cohen said, "I knew Jan Duffy and psychologist, Dr. Anthony Reading from the that they were trying to do the right thing and figured it out. University of Oxford. They were fair and took their job as jurors very seriously. The district had originally planned to call at least one They wanted to get it right and they did." rebuttal witness who was an economist. However, he was The Jury ruled unanimously in favor of Young. never called to testify. The district did not call any expert witnesses to the stand. THE VERDICT Trial Behavior is a San Francisco firm that specializes In the end, the judge awarded Young $1.2 million in in providing jury analysis. Senior Consultant Mike Tiktin- his lawsuit against the LACCD. Jurors ruled in favor of sky is an expert in statistical methodologies, personality Young on three counts, including retaliation for disclosing assessment and data analysis. He gives advice to attorneys information, failure of the LACCD to prevent harassment, and testifies as an expert witness. He believes a good ex­ discrimination or retaliation and disparate treatment based pert can change the outcome of a case and a bad expert on race. can lose a case. The LACCD Board of Trustees voted on May 25, "Jurors make decisions on other than expert informa­ 2011 to appeal. tion often times," Tiktinsky said "They are not as enamored Young is currently working at his new job coaching by qualifications and credentials as attorneys are and part the baseball team for Benedict College, in Columbia, South of it is presentation style and how much they think they can Carolina. No one knows how the appeal will turn out, but convey their enthusiasm." for now Young feels vindicated. Expert witness fees can cost as little as a few hundred "I'm guilty of one thing, telling the truth," Young said dollars to incurring hundreds of thousands of dollars depend­ in a press release through his attorney. "Evil prevails when ing on the expertise level and the amount of work involved. good men stand and do nothing."

Collegian Times 16 TWO COACHES:

FORMER BASKETBALL COACH GOES ONE ON ONE WITH DISTRICT

By Abimael Rivera ton team that did not exist. He claims this was motivation to relieve him of his Michael Miller was the head coach for the Los An­ position. geles City College Men's Basketball team for 16 years. "I don't feel that after 18 years of excellent coach­ He became Athletic Director for the department while at ing, I should be terminated for a rule I didn't know ex­ the same time continuing his job as a coach. He ran a isted," Miller said regarding the retention policy, during a successful team with a national record of 14 straight con­ cross-examination. "She [M°ore] shut down the athletic ference championships. department to get rid of the Miller problem." However, those days have become a memory for During his cross examination, Miller would give a Miller as he struggles at the center of two battles. One hard stare to the defense lawyer Lester Jones of Yasinski is to regain his job, the other is a lawsuit against City & Jones, LLP. On at least two different occasions, Miller College President Jamillah Moore and LACC for what appeared to get teary eyed, causing Judge Formaker to he claims is unlawful termination. order the court to take a recess. No jury has been selected for the lawsuit following "This case is of deception. [Miller's] disregarding delays and lengthy depositions. The fate of his termina­ [of] the district's policy," Jones said during his opening tion may come to a conclusion some time in June, when statement. "You will hear that Miller has [a] satisfactory oral arguments will be presented to Administrative Law history [as a coach]. We don't dispute that." Judge Susan Formaker. The lawsuit against Moore is pending until the ad­ Miller is accused of disobeying a document reten­ ministrative hearing comes to an end. tion policy by allegedly shredding athletic records and W Keith Wyatt of the law firm Ivie, McNeill & Wy­ erasing the hard drive of a district computer that should att is representing Miller in the lawsuit. have remained in the offices of the athletic department. They plan to request transcripts from the adminis­ Attorneys Lawerence Rosenzweig and his son Brent trative hearing. Rosenzweig represent Miller on behalf of the American "We wanted to explore additional discovery. We Federation of Teachers. wanted to see transcripts," Wyatt said in a phone call "Miller shredded documents that had been piling with the Collegian. "Getting the transcripts, we may up for years," Lawrence Rosenzweig said during the identify new witnesses to explore further after review." administrative hearings. "The district insinuates he was On campus and on LACC's website, one can find trying to hide [student records]. There is no training on Miller's legacy from his years as a coach. From being the policy of shredding." honored as "Coach of the Year" 16 times to his claim Michael Shanahan of the Los Angeles Community of matriculating more than 60 players to National Colle­ College District (LACCD) human resources office spoke giate Athletic Association Division I institutions, Miller about the, "progressive discipline," to terminate Miller has been regarded as a tough yet successful, "taskmas­ during the hearing in March. ter." He felt that in some cases, progressive discipline is The northern wall on the basketball court of the not necessary. Women's Gym at LACC is a sort of monument to "It was our [the LACCD's] opinion and mine, but Miller's success. The words: "Coach Miller's Hall of certain types, no notices are required. Dishonesty is an Fame" is written across the bottom of rows of jerseys example. The behavior is so fundamental there's ... no once worn by students who have moved on to universi­ way to improve," Shanahan said. ties under Miller's coaching. A viewer has to tilt his or During his cross-examination, Miller claimed that her head back to see the very top jersey. Moore dismissed him for whistleblowing on a badmin­ "Coaching was my life," Miller said.

Collegian Times 17 Code Lands of Supreme By Abimael Rivera cuit's decision in Dambrot v. Central Michigan University, thereby showing the power of Ihe code to silence or at least Illustration by Jose Tobar causing a circuit split among the courts. chill one side of a controversial debate. 3) It seriously under­ estimates the chilling effect such invocations of speech codes Some may say that topics like religion and sexual ori­ Will the Lopez case make it to the Supreme Court? can have, given the politically correct atmosphere and agen­ entation do not have a place on school grounds. Many feel das on college campuses today. 4) Accordingly the decision such topics are too personal and perhaps should be discussed This is what some experts are saying: threatens to further weaken the status of free thought and in­ elsewhere. quiry in higher education. 5) Finally, the decision reinforces a A student from City College, however, appears to be Adam Goldstein, Attorney Advocate of the philosophy that is demeaning to gay and lesbian students be­ challenging just that line of thought. As unintentional as his Student Press Law Center cause it assumes that they are too fragile to handle the rough actions may have been, his speech, or lack thereof, may take "The chances of getting the Supreme Court to take a and tumble of open discourse and debate, and, therefore, in him to the highest court of the land to dispute a speech code case are always slim, statistically speaking. A very small need of the nanny administration to protect their sensibilities. that has been regarded by many as unconstitutional. number of cases are taken. That said, this case has as good This assumption does not apply to the many gays and lesbi­ Jonathan Lopez delivered a speech on the definition of of a pedigree as a case can have: there's a difference in how ans that I know and respect" marriage during a Speech 101 class at City College in 2008, federal courts on two sides of the country are treating free when professor John Matteson interrupted him and allegedly speech, and the Supreme Court exists, at least in part, to de­ Wayne Overbeck, Ph.D., J.D. Professor of called Lopez a, "fascist bastard." cide which court is treating the Constitution correctly. Communications, emeritus, Lopez quoted a literal definition of marriage from a "FIRE's brief is absolutely correct: the Ninth Circuit's California State University, Fullerton dictionary and cited two verses from a Bible before he was ruling threatens the free speech of college students by requir­ "What is the chance the Supreme Court will agree to stopped. ing that students be actually punished under a speech code hear this case? My guess is that it's a long shot purely for When Lopez asked for the grade on his speech, the pro­ before they can oppose it That's like requiring that you get statistical reasons. The Supreme Court only issues formal fessor reportedly told him to, "Ask god what your grade is." shot before you complain about someone pointing a gun at opinions in about 100 cases a year out of many thousands it Matteson warned Lopez that his actions could be pun­ you. And maybe more to the point, that's not the law. is asked to hear. ishable under the Los Angeles Community College District "The idea that LACCD can play a game of 'peekaboo' "This case raises important issues of standing to chal­ (LACCD) speech code, which prohibits, "generalized sexist with unconstitutional rules - 'now we're threatening you lenge campus speech codes that may be unconstitutional, but statements," and, "actions and behavior that convey insulting, with it, now we aren't' - to keep them on the books offends with no record of any actual punishment, this case doesn't intrusive or degrading attitudes/comments about women or fundamental American values. Rules that are unconstitu­ have the most compelling facts. Granted, when a professor men," among others. tional remain unconstitutional even when they're not being uses words like those quoted here, that seems a lot like a pun­ Lopez filed suit in 2009, claiming his right to free enforced." ishment (and unprofessional conduct by the professor), but speech had been violated. However, in late 2010, the Ninth the student would have a better case if he had been expelled Circuit Court of Appeals wrote in their opinion that Lopez Donald Downs, Alexander Meiklejohn Professor of or given a failing grade. I assume nothing like that happened. did not have standing to bring a lawsuit to court and that he Political Science, Law, and Journalism at University "These campus speech codes raise all sorts of First failed to prove injury. of Wisconsin-Madison Amendment questions, of course. Many kinds of speech that No w, in an attempt to settle the question of speech codes "The Ninth Circuit's decision to deny Lopez standing are offensive to someone (or to almost everyone) are pro­ on college campuses once and for all, the Foundation for In­ is very unfortunate for at least fivereason s having to do with tected by the First Amendment. The problem is getting a case dividual Rights in Education (FIRE) has filed a brief with the law per se and with policy implications: 1) It constitutes ex­ before the courts with the right facts to have the challenged United States Supreme Court cessively narrow reading of standing in First Amendment code ruled unconstitutional. If a student were actually disci­ The brief asserts that the Ninth Circuit's decision con­ cases, as the brief by FIRE convincingly points out. 2) It fails plined for saying marriage should only be between a man and flicts with the Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in Mc­ to adequately weigh the fact that Lopez' professor invoked a woman or something like that, it would be a very strong Cauley v. University of the Virgin Islands and the Sixth Cir­ the authority of the harassment code to silence Lopez in class, First Amendment case."

Collegian Times 18 Dr. Diane Watson • A Path

At 78, she wears a walking cast as she steps slowly through the remodeled entry of her South Los Angeles home. She touches her swollen right knee, which is not unlike her front door—newly replaced. Retirement is long overdue for the former congresswoman who rarely slows down. Where her career ends her memoir begins. to Follow By Mende Smith plantation work and wanted to start a farm at Watts Field tol Hill, but her small apartment in D.C, she says, was Photo by Luca Loffredo — the large swath of land where Watts Towers stand to­ not her home. She longed for the Los Angeles Boule­ day. vards and the faces of her people. The concrete path to Dr. Diane Watson's Harcourt "The only time my mother ever heard her mother "Even when I was living up on the Hill, I knew that Boulevard home is painted cherry-cola red. Her front yard yelling was on that day," Watson says as she imitates my home was here in my district," Watson says. is narrow, freshly cut and green. her grandmother's voice and throws up her hands. "Mr. She moved into her own white house in August of Of all of the 1940s bungalows on her block, the white O'Neal wants to take all of us to Watts Field to farm! 1970. house with the deco columns and an English chime door­ Shrieked Grandma Edith, I cannot believe it—he wants to Her modest home has hosted scores of her constitu­ bell is where all the commotion is now. Just six months farm, and we have come all this way!" ents, family, extended family and hosts of friends. ago she had the house remodeled to accommodate her late And so they went. But they did not stay. Watson's mother's care. learned grandmother saw to that. She had better plans for 'THE BOOKS ARE YOUR WAY OUT,' Her bungalow is a charming mix of new and old her children than selling fresh vegetables out of the back GRANDMOTHER SAID French 'haute monde' design. of their father's pickup truck. The three Watson girls were tall and beautiful some Each picture frame is a splash of gold. On the side ta­ Watson's mother was born in Chicago. Her father say, but Barbara Jean and Patsy got all the boys, and 'Di' ble there are more than 20 framed photographs of family, was born in Kansas. Watson and her siblings were got all the books. She won all of the merit awards and all friends and colleagues. Some are living. Some are dead. born at County General Hospital in Los Angeles. At of the scholarships. Each mirror casts a spectral light. White settees that time, 50th Street and Central Avenue was the bor­ There were debutante parties and white dress affairs adorned with crisp pillows beckon at the entry where a derline for people of color—just a few miles from the that the Watson girls attended with the daughters of their grand portrait of a woman who sits like royalty looks out hospital steps. mother's friends. from a massive frame. Her father worked for the Los Angeles Police De­ "My beloved sister Barbara Jean went out on dates According to her houseguest, opera diva Brenda partment and was transferred to the University Station in and rode around in cars with boys — they all did. I just Jackson, the retired congresswoman never sleeps. South Los Angeles, where he rented a house on nearby stayed behind and studied," Watson says. Jackson warns that 'Lady Di's' day began at 2 a.m. Cimarron Street. As the other girls married and settled down to as she was called to hold vigil at the bedside of her first The neighborhood grew around their house to in­ "homemaking" Watson says she could not be bothered. cousin Lynn; a proud woman well into her nineties. She clude many Hollywood personalities. The future congresswoman was always leaving home for passed away early that morning. Eddie "Rochester" Anderson, the sidekick to actor a meeting or an event. She wanted to network. Now the retired Congresswoman sits on an ivory Jack Benny, and Man tan Moreland—a vaudevillian leg­ Watson joined community organizations and was so chaise. Two college-aged ladies bring her a tray of tem- end — built fine houses there. In the height of the golden well received that she says she eventually became presi­ pura and brown rice, begging that she rests, eats. age, the roots of Hollywood grew right underneath the dent of all of them. She was popular with the older ladies, Dr. Watson is the matriarch of her family. Her mater­ saddle shoes of the Watson girls. who she says mentored her lovingly. nal grandmother, Edith once held the position. Edith was But they would not become Hollywood starlets. born a "slave master's child", so she was allowed to get an Young Diane was going to go even higher than the star THE MASTER PLAN education. She studied at Providence hospital in Chicago. walk. Watson fondly recalls her days at City College be­ She knew that the only way out of that life was education, "Because of my grandmother and her sisters, we all cause it was closest to her home. Also, it was small. so she moved her children to California. understood that education was the thing," Watson says. The smallness of her classes and the individual atten­ She did not want her children or her grandchildren "And so I went to City College, I went on to UCLA, I con­ tion that she was afforded from her professors in an­ living in the South. tinued my education and got my Ph.D. in 1987.1 went to thropology, geology and music, formed her academic school at night and I would write my dissertation all night, foundation. LOS ANGELES TOP even though I was already in the Senate, I would write and Many of her classes were 20 or fewer students, un­ TO BOTTOM work on my education and go to the Senate Floor in the like the UCLA Halls with more than 450 students in the It took seven years to finally reach California soil. morning." lectures. There, Watson remembers professors did not Edith's husband, who she called Mr. O'Neal, only knew Dr. Watson's work may have kept her busy on Capi­ even teach—the teachers' assistants taught.

Collegian Times 19 Watson said it was ingrained in all of "Grandma Edith's kin" that education was the only way out of strife and hardship, for each of them and all of them. It was a group effort. Watson commuted by bus to and from the UCLA campus from 27th and Arlington Avenue. Then, Watson says, her great aunt did something for her that changed her life. She offered the retirement pay from her Post Office job and put up the money for Watson's room and board at the university. This allowed her to live at Stevens House near Campus. When the 27-bed residence opened in 1948, blacks, Asian Americans and Latinos could not get places in the school's only dorm or access to Westwood apartments. "I thought I had died and gone to heaven. It was the first of its kind - an experiment in interracial living," Wat­ son says. "There were 27 girls. It couldn't be too many blacks, whites, Asians, and there was just one Hispanic who was my roommate; a movie producer's daughter." Watson said that of the Stevens' girls, those still liv­ ing, are her friends today. She recalls the excitement of being out on the town with the producer's daughter, away from the watchful eyes of their mentors - at the age of 18 in the golden age of Hollywood. Sporting two cameras each and borrowing their friend's good clothes to look the part as pre-viewers, they crowded into the streets. All of the producers and the big­ gest stars appeared at the "first-niters."

'FOLLOW ME AND JUST DO WHAT I DO, DIANE...' The girls walked right up to Humphrey Bogart in his soft gray fedora. The young and the bright blonde actress on his arm was none other than Marilyn Monroe. The girls just smiled and busied themselves along with all ofthe other photographers and called out the stars to pose just like the real press people did and then snapped their pictures. That is how Watson met most of Hollywood's hier­ archy. Watson planned to begin her career as a teacher af­ ter Pauline Slater, her great aunt became the first black teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District. The world map on the classroom wall was a constant reminder to her that there were many exciting countries to visit and exciting people to meet Deep inside, she always knew that she was born to travel the world. She says she taught a third grade class for one year and then she took off. Her mother and her aunts watched with heavy hearts as she boarded a plane for Europe with "We stood in the elevator lobby, none came to greet He fired back that "they weren't Africans they were a group of CSU students. us or anything," Watson says. Asians." The man explained to the group that just because "We waited there 20 minutes and then a tall man with the Asians walked along a great land bridge and settled 'I WALKED THE WALL, I DID IT ALL' a sweaty head and wrinkly clothes came to where we were along the southern part of his country, they were not Af­ By the time she was 27, Watson had already traveled standing — he looked like an unmade bed." ricans. the world; Japan to England, France to China and Ger­ The man led the group to a larger room where there Watson told him that though he may be historically cor­ many to Russia and back again. were two "official-looking" men already seated at the far rect, her grandmother had told her they were not white. Silence "I worked in Okinawa, Japan, I worked in France, I end of the meeting room table. Although he received the filled the great room and the visit came to a swift end. would just jump on with whatever group was going and group cordially, he made it clear that his meeting with go," Watson says. "Never mind sleeping, I was too busy. I them did not mean that he agreed with them. OUT OF THE ISLAND walked the wall, I did it all." Nobody spoke. From there her group of 19 people traveled through Then the big man slammed both of his fists down the South Africa Creole and the dreaded Robben Island- 'BEST FOR THE CHILDREN OF THE hard on the table and yelled "South Africa for the Afrikan­ situated 11 kilometers off the coast of Cape Town. AFRIKANERS' ers!" according to Watson. Then he spoke. The island was first used in the 1700s to hold captive In 1990, under Apartheid, Congresswoman Watson "When white man came there were no blacks in the slaves. In later years, it imprisoned the unwanted—Man­ went to South Africa for the first time in a group of 20, and southern tip of Africa," he says. Van der Merva explained dela was held captive on Robben Island for 18 years. only four of them were people of color. that he knows what is best for the next generation—seg­ They took the tour to where the wind blows up the The congresswoman and her group met with whom regation. Cape through the docks of the white traders' ships. Wat­ she called "Coos" van der Merva. He was the second in The congresswoman says she could not sit by for son says that the tours provide excellent insight into this fine in the apartheid movement Watson recalls the meet­ that. She rose up in her chair and told him that she had historic place. Their guide was a man well versed in South ing was overshadowed by the recent release of Nelson learned in college that the "bushman" and the "Hottentot" African culture; a curator's son from District Six Museum. Mandela — a leading anti-apartheid campaigner freed inhabited the Cape of Good Hope. A small boat carried them out to the dungeons across from prison in South Africa after 27 years. Her words angered him. the channel in the rising sea air; she says that as the boat

Collegian Times 20 Photo of Watson family neighbor Eddie "Rochester"Anderson, courtesy ofwUdpedia.org. From left to right: Dr. Thelma James Day, Dr. Diane Watson, President of LACC, Dr. Ja­ millah Moore and entertainer Sheryl Lee Ralph stand in El Camino Theatre. The African-Ameri­ can Heritage Committee honored Congresswom­ an Watson with a plaque to mark her legacy and service in February of this year. clipped along she could not escape the smell of flesh. Watson took the former governor of Arkansas to five During the Clinton Administration's reworking ofthe "The spirit of all of the ancestors comes flooding services on a single Sunday. Some of these churches have welfare system, Dr. Watson was right at the helm speaking right down on you; you can feel it," Watson puts her hand 300,000 members. up for the thousands of families in her district. to her mouth. "It takes the breath right out of you to think "And that is how we did it," Watson says. "If you She says during the Rodney King riots, she was there of all that pain, and it makes the work that we do now so come out to church, then they all remember you at the bal­ for the angry kids in the streets, talking them back from much more important." lot box." harm's way. Dr. Watson and the group stood in the small cham­ Just a few months later, Clinton was inaugurated When the late Johnny Cochran was waiting for the ber cells where the captives had stood like cattle wait­ president. To commemorate the event the congresswoman O.J. verdict, she was in Germany and told her friends that ing to die. was invited to a convention in New York City. she might need to fly back that same evening if the court They stood right where "the chained" waited for the Watson was in her evening best. When she saw the decision came back guilty, because Cochran was in her boats to come and take them to the New World. It was placards on her box seats she could not believe where district. dank. It was dark. She said it felt like the end of dreams. she was sitting. Lauren Bacall, Jackie Kennedy and Yuhl Dr. Watson says that she will proudly five out the rest They sailed through the islands along the same Brenner were already there. of her days here in Los Angeles, her first and only home. shores where 11,128,000 live slaves were delivered to the Then an usher told her that she was needed on the Times are still busy. There are local charity functions and New World during the Atlantic slave trade. sixth floor and escorted her to the elevators. Watson caucus groups, and she says she does her best to show up "All of the sadness of this place," Watson says, "It knocked on the door at the end of the lobby. A "stern man" and join in. comes over like the ghosts." opened it and asked her name. That man was Hubert There are many folks around Hollywood who still Watson's group was sobbing by the end of the tour. Humphrey. call her for help even though she is no longer an elected All 19 of them in the group were sobbing. Black and white. "Humphrey was a tall man, a little taller than me, official. She answers her own single-line house phone. Dr. Watson proudly held her seat as the 33rd District about 6-foot-6," Watson says. "He was talking with a lady She plans festive agendas for community events and Representative of the United States Congress for eight who had dark hair with a shock of white at the top. She social gatherings. She attends Gala celebrations, wed­ years but spent 20 years in the California Senate. could not have been more than 5-foot-4." dings, birthdays, and christenings, even the after-parties She worked through what she called the adversity of He said, "I want you to meet Bill Clinton's mother." of the Oscars. two Bush presidencies to do right by her conscience down The two women became fast friends. Clinton's moth­ When asked to participate in official business, she refers to the last majority vote. The next president of the United er adored her company. The two ladies spent most of the people to the woman who now sits in her Wilshire Boulevard States, Bill Clinton, would appoint her U.S. Ambassador evening together and after that, Watson and the Clintons office—her successor, Congresswoman Karen Bass. to Micronesia — a cluster of 607 small islands just north shared a special relationship. of the equator. "I love Bill Clinton, and you can quote me on that!" FIRST AND LAST DAYS Watson says. "I know that he is who he is because of the On Jan. 5, 2011, Watson spent the better part of the FRIENDS FOREVER love of his mother." afternoon taking Bass around and introducing her to ev­ When she first was invited to meet presidential eryone before her swearing in with all of the other new­ hopeful William Jefferson Clinton, he was attending a A WELCOMED ADVANTAGED comers. At the end of the day, Dr. Watson said she wanted convention in Arkansas. Watson looked up and saw him Watson was appointed Chair to the Department of to introduce her successor to a woman who she lovingly with "his curly blonde hair and striking blue eyes" and Health and Human Services for the U.S. Senate for 17 calls her 'BFF'. she was taken with him instantly. Watson says that the years. "So, I took Karen down to the Floor at the second other members of her delegation said if he wanted to be "I am proud to say that I was the one responsible for row and when the woman looked up she said, 'Oh, no Di­ the president he better forget it — he was the last speaker getting the focus on the health and the welfare of the Afri­ ane, you are not leaving us are you?' I said, Karen, meet to speak and he talked for 45 minutes and everybody was can-American on the 1980 Census," Watson recalls how at Gabrielle, she is dear to my heart and you are going to trying to leave. the time there were only three categories for race. love her." After a hard year on the campaign trail, he came to "Caucasoid, Mongoloid, or Negroid," Watson peers That woman was Gabrielle Giffords. Both women California. Watson recalls how she stepped up to show over the rims of her glasses and crossing her arms she says, left the Hill that day. Gabrielle was the last person that him around her home district. She says that he was well 'T called up the director and pitched the idea that we should Dr. Watson had spoken to on her last day in Washington. received by the congregations when they toured the "super call ourselves where our gene pool was for identification — And the rest, as they say, is history. churches" in Los Angeles County. and that is how we got that changed on the ballot."

Collegian Times 21 BEST OF THE BEST at CITY COLLEG By Emmanuel Johnson Illustrations by Luis Rivas The results are in and the votes have been counted! In a survey, City students had the chance to cast their votes for the best of the best on campus or nearby. Winners ofthe "Best of include highlights fiom the best food on campus, or where to grab that much-needed caffeine fix, to the hottest make-out spot City has to offer. esjLspot on isampu/for romance is nder the trees in the/Quad according to 'ity stude^fr. This quaint |po? is perfect for "stuffings whmwant to get away and have a moment of bliss. But remember, it's a public place so keep it P-G.

tepcji ( dents voted the Child o< velopment Center as coolest building on The Library has been voted to be the best place to study. Two floors of mpus. The newly built computers and private group study rooms are available for students to architectural masterpiece concentrate on their homework. Students are greeted with comfy sofas and filled with the laughter tables to study on the third floor.

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There are a variety of great places to eat around campus and the ^3^S S^pt? f°r ^'^l

Collegian Times 22 A favorite among college students is pizza and Big Mama's & r\ parrtft Papa's Pizza was picked to be the best around campus. Their Hm§$ ^o<§^9 (5?tAi CrifD'p©, £> O gigantic slices and many-topping options can keep any hungry ^1W ©IF Tfo© tLofepai? student satisfied.

Cify /zos TWCZWV wondrous views and the third floor ofthe Library was voted to have the best view on campus. From the third floor, students can see noteworthy sights like the Hollywood sign, Griffith Park Observatory and the Scientology Church from a majestic height.

Wf \o ^\rte.s W*\\.. u/1 & rr®f* \& For 15 years, Harry's food truckhas fed City College students and faculty. Grateful students have voted it to be the best food truck around campus. It is convenient and has a menu for meat eaters and vegetarians alike.

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College life can b exhausting. For a much needed pick-me-up, m •JN-W^ students rely on coffee. With many varieties ©S^TfWfo Espresso, Cafe Mocha ^njg^ota 17 Cappuccino, Tully's Coffee was named best cofjeeon^ o campus. And for the drinkers, check out the, 77*e newly built Sci-Tech building has highly-caffeinated Soul been voted to have the best bathroom, American tea, Yerba Mat campus. Its clean stalls, automatic so- and paper towel dispensers make thej_ bathroom experience better than the one at home. Sort of. With students saying, "I think I'll go to City College to use their toilets! Yeah!" Collegian Times 23 TRIPLE THREAT By Kalifa Madden Photos by Leila Khan

luxurious gold couch in a multi-million dollar mansion seats three androgynous long-haired blonds, licking Lady Gaga's face while her song "Paparazzi" plays in the background. You may also recognize the dynamic trio from their stint on the VH1 show "Daisy of Love." Low and behold, the three blonds are City College's own Swedish triplets Nisse, Pelle and Calle Landeberg. Being triplets makes them unique; so does an eclectic style and their music which draws from diverse influences. It can be summed up in one word: Electropop.

The triple threats reside in Hollywood, CA and are currently enrolled in classes at City College. They claim to always agree and hold all the same interests in ev­ erything from girls to hairstyles. Down to their matching tattoos, piercings, and the shocking similarity in their voices, the triplets are identical. Nisse, Pelle and Calle can be found on campus hanging out outside Tully's and giving their friends henna tattoos between classes. Not only is the trio self-educated in the music busi­ ness, they have also already traveled the world over from Sicily to Japan, South Africa to Hollywood. Their band, Concrete Animals, is currently record­ ing in Los Angeles. What intrigues you most, fame or money? Nisse: Fame. The thing that drives us, keeps [us] best way to be. Thafs also one of the reasons that ifs What brought you to L.A.? going, is to do something that people will enjoy. That will so fun with music. We want to do something that is a Nisse: It's always been like a big, big, big dream be the best feeling. To do music that I know people [are] product that we're proud of. We create something that for us to come here so we did. Like, four years ago, partying to and people think like, yeah, this is good. is man-made from us. we came here and we are just living the dream. It's It's not that much of being in the magazines and stuff, You're very fashionable. What's your fashion inspi­ amazing. 'cause we're already in a lot of Swedish magazines just ration? Did you visit LA. before you moved here? because we are triplets, so I don't care about being in Nisse: We started out listening to punk rock music Pelle: No, we just had like a chance and [came] the magazines. and thafs where we kind of got the style from. From here. Left everything we had and said, eh, I'm gonna Calle: Fame for fame is nothing if you're just fa­ the beginning that's where we got the interest of style move here forever and I was stuck with it. Like, even mous. because it's different. We've always been kind of dress­ before I knew about the place. And I was right, I love Pelle: Then you become like Daisy De La Hoya, ing different from everybody else. It's whatever you feel this place. she's just famous for being on a show and that's not fun. comfortable with, and if you feel comfortable wearing Calle: Ifs kind of our lifestyle to just move around I wouldn't like that. makeup, do it. You need to be comfortable with what a bit. When we moved away from Sweden for the first Calle: You want to be famous for something you're you wear, so if you want to blend in blend in. If you want time we said lefs go to Japan, we didn't know about proud of, something you've been fighting for. Thafs the to stick out then stick out. Japan. [It] seemed to be an interesting place, so we just Collegian Times 24 GOES GAGA

went for it and we stayed for four months. We tried to Calle: There's a band from Sweden, I don't know if learn a bit of Japanese, but it was really, really hard. it would be my number one choice, but ifs a band called Nisse: Ifs just a crazy different place, ifs like noth­ 'The Sounds" and they kind of got the same kind of ing else. It's like going to the future kind of. sound as us. But more old school, more pop. What brought you to City College? Pelle: If I would choose a number one band it Pelle: Ifs a good price, we don't have to spend too would probably be Lady Gaga. much money on the school. Nisse: Or if Michael Jackson weren't dead, he Calle: LACC is worth the money. would be the perfect guy. Nisse: Of course we love the classes. What are your goals with your music? How do you feel about your journey at City Col­ Pelle: The goal right now since we just came out lege? the studio we want to get those songs on the radio and Pelle: It's been great, we've been learning a lot make some music videos for them, and get as big as of stuff. possible. Nisse: I really like the speech class. What is one of the biggest lessons you've learned Pelle: The speech class is good cause ifs some­ since being in the music business? competition. There are so many bands but there are thing we need to work on you know, cause a lot of Pelle: The biggest lesson, never sign anything un­ a lot of opportunities also, so [much] stuff we wouldn't American people think ifs stupid if you don't talk correct less you check it out with a lawyer. have been able to do, like be in the Lady Gaga video we English or perfect English. Nisse: Most contracts are 17 to 20 pages so take did. And do commercials for Nike and New York-New What instruments do you play? time to read it before you sign it. York Casino in Las Vegas. Calle: I'm the singer. Calle: Don't drink too much alcohol before you What do you want people to remember most Pelle: I'm the keyboardist. sign it. about your band? Nisse: I play bass. Do you have any advice for other artists that want Calle: That ifs great music, thafs the most impor­ Is it just you three in the band? to come to the United States? tant thing. I think we already made an impact with the Pelle: It's five guys and we're all from Scandina­ Pelle: Just go for it. Just follow your heart and just way we look. via. Four of us are from Sweden, and then we have a go for it. Do it. Nisse: To sound good is the most important thing Danish drummer. We just came out of the studio now, Calle: Carpe Diem, seize the day. That's the best and if people remember [us] for good music I could die. couple of days ago. Mad Dog Studios in Burbank where advice, live your dreams. Thafs the most important thing because music is my life. Queen [has] recorded and Offspring, Alice in Chains, Nisse: A lot of people think it's easy just to come Where can your music be heard? Billy Idol, a lot of rock dudes. [to] America and become an artist, but you got to fight Nisse: We are going to release new songs on our Nisse: Hannah Montana too. for it, if you're in America too. YouTube channel, which is Concrete Animals, youtube. What type of music do you play? Pelle: I think if you're in Hollywood, Hollywood is com/concreteanimals. Nisse: Right now ifs like modern rock with key­ the hardest place to make it because there is so much board and heavy pop influences too. Pelle: Ifs a mix of a bit of everything. I think the modern sound nowadays is like a mix of everything, cause back in the day it was like blues, rock and stuff. But now there's no real, like, genre of music anymore. Nisse: In the '80s it was, like, glam rock. In the '90s it was like a grunge, and then in the 70s it was, like, kind of like pop music. Like, spaced out. And now there is no real genre of music. Today there's a lot of dance influence in the genre of music, maybe that is the genre of today. Ifs kind of interesting to mix the sound of Lady Gaga together with rock, for example. That kind of com­ bination. Calle: We take inspiration from all over the place. Nisse: [We're] not only stuck with one thing, but able to listen to other artists too that are not in our genre. But then take the inspirations from that and then put it in your music, so you don't just have one specific sound. Who would you say is your band's demographic? Pelle: We are trying to reach a young audience who like to party, that like a modern sound of rock with keyboards. Calle: I also want to reach people who like pop, who like rock, who like different music, who [are] not just rock music or metal heads. Thafs not our audience. Clockwise opposite page: From left to right: Calle, Nisse, and Pelle Landeberg. If you could go on tour with anybody, who Above: Concrete Animals band members, from left to right: Jesper Svane, Pelle Landeberg, would it be? Calle Landeberg, Nisse Landeberg, and Erik Henriksson.

Collegian Times 25 s o * 0 •

B c D E F r i 4 5 By Latrlna Wilcher Illustration by Jose Tobar 4> # fc? ^ FINDING N O the

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Collegian Times 26 4 w • 9 eggie Fields never expected to be blind. I've gotten it all." Most people would not. Coping with Reggie went to Hawaii, taught and coached d Q O Q Rsomething of this magnitude could bring kids—even chased the girls to end up with a family. down the best, but to Reggie it became just another ob­ His list motivated him, kept him positive and got him stacle to overcome. He did not wallow in sorrow; rather his wish for a good life. What he didn't want, never he decided very quickly that his blindness should not wrote on his list and never expected, was to be shot H I J get in the way of the life he wanted to lead. In the pro­ outside of a liquor store. He became collateral damage 8 9 0 cess, he experienced unique moments of joy and hor­ in a gang-related incident He was shot twice: once in rible lows, hirning him into the man he is today. his face by the jaw and once in his chest. "I was shot. It was over something so stupid. LIFE IN THE ARMY Something I wasn't even a part of," Reggie said, add­ Reggie entered the military at 18 years old, right ing that he considers the fact that he survived a small after his first semester at El Camino College. At the miracle. "It was God's work that I didn't get deformed time, he was well aware of the dangers that came with or affected by this. I suppose he wanted me to be blind his choice to enlist. Since there was no war, he decid­ rather than crippled and I thank Him for that." ed to take the chance. He ended up testing and work­ ing with weapons that contain chemicals and toxins. THE BLIND LIFE It seemed like a safe choice, far away from fight­ Reggie says adjusting to blindness was a difficult ing and bullets. It turned out that there is no such thing process at first. There are obvious changes, such as not and fate had other plans for him. being able to drive. "I remember waking up one day and even though "It's easy to forget how dependant we are on vi­ my eyes were open, I still couldn't see," Reggie said. sion to get by," he said. A wave of panic came over him. He was engulfed But there were also less obvious changes, like in a darkness that seemed to press down on him from learning to navigate through his own home or sim­ all angles. It is a fear that comes from suddenly losing ply dealing with emotional stress. Then there was the a vital sense. It amplified the relentlessly dark world stress of his family all but abandoning him to his fate: he now inhabited. They did not want to deal with the burden. Reggie "I rubbed my eyes, thinking it was just a cold in struggled with the stress of figuring out where to go my eyes, but nothing changed initially," he said. "It next in life, and the challenge of getting around in his worried me tremendously that my sight had even left new world. me in the first place." He learned quickly that he would need to be After a couple of minutes his eyesight returned, as self sufficient as possible to keep his hopes and leaving Reggie concerned and confused. dreams alive. He found devices that would read to him and ways to write through dictation. He began A BAD NEWS DAY learning Braille. Most importantly, he found that he Right after the incident, Reggie went to the doc­ needed to venture out and live life without worrying tor looking for answers. The answers were shocking. about his blindness. The doctor said the sudden blindness was due to glau­ coma, a disease that leads to progressive and irrevers­ CHALLENGING THE FUTURE ible loss of sight. He was told it would be a matter Reggie is 36 years old now and he attends LACC. of years, or months before he would be permanently He is currently in his second year and continues to blind. face his challenges head on. He says he strives to im­ "The doctor said it ran in my family," Reggie prove and rise to the top. He says he has been doing said. "I remember saying that no one in my family had fine so far, but it was not always easy. it, and the doctor explained it might well be a timeline "The hardest part for me, when I first started, I didn't know about." Reggie believes the chemicals was dealing with the people," Reggie said. "Nobody used in the weapons he tested had more to do with the would help me. I couldn't see the things the teacher onset of glaucoma than heredity, but does not believe wrote on the board, people would get in my way when the military would ever take the blame. And even if I walked somewhere. And if I bumped into someone, they did, it would not return his sight. I'd be the rude one!" "/? in After the diagnosis, Reggie's eyesight continued Getting around campus has gotten easier, he says to go in and out of a haze. Eventually he could not see and he thinks people have gotten friendlier. He wants well enough to fire a weapon safely and was of no use to fulfill his dream of becoming a psychologist. He to the military. Six months after the diagnosis, he says wants to be able to help people with their problems he was unceremoniously discharged. using his own unique perspective on coping. He's cur­ "One moment I was in the military, on a base in rently learning how to read Braille at the Braille Insti­ Germany, and the next I was on a plane back to L.A.," tute of Los Angeles. he said. "Where does my life begin?" "I want to teach everyone how to read Braille! It's great!" he says. "I think everyone should know COMPILING A LIST FOR LIFE when you take into account that there are a lot of blind With Reggie's vision slowly diminishing, he students at LACC and they are next to the Braille In­ made a plan. He set out a list. It would be a "Before stitute." I go blind" list, things he felt he needed to see and do Adapting to being blind, something a lot of peo­ before he went blind. ple would find almost insurmountable, turned out to "I wanted to see Hawaii," Reggie said. "I wanted be a minor adjustment for Reggie. After learning how to lie on that beach and watch the sun set and rise. I to cope with his blindness, he is ready to take over wanted to become a coach and keep kids disciplined the world and the field of psychology. Nothing will and on the right path. I wanted to be a mentor." deter him. "I know I'm blind, and to people that means I THE LIST CONTINUED have no eyesight," he said, "but I can still see the lital "I wanted to chase girls, have children and to be world. I can see the bad and the good, and I can able to see their beautiful faces when they arrived out see people's hearts and spirits, I'm not limited in •m of their mother's womb," he said. "I wanted it all, and anything."

Collegian Times 27 John Trang stands on the corner of the steps that lead up to the campus, leaning on a ledge, wearing dark sunglasses, his hair neatly combed. His shirt and pants appear carefully ironed, his backpack tucked neatly under his arm as he smokes Marlboro menthol cigarettes, listening to people passing by, listening and smoking.

Collegian Times 28 By Jesse Mullenix Illustration by Jose Tobar

eople don't like you when you're venture outside of the school. blind, they don't have any respect. "I never would go out," John said. "It was too 44 They think you don't have feel­ crazy man. People did whatever they wanted and ings," John Trang said. "Nobody I'm blind. I can't do anything. They could rob me wants to be your friend." or whatever and what could I do?" P No sooner than John speaks, a The difficult years passed and John was united woman passerby greets him as she walks near the briefly with his mother and his father— one last Vermont Avenue steps that lead into City College. time before coming to America. He was 19 when "Hey it's John, the blind man," the woman he arrived in Los Angeles and enrolled at City Col­ said as she laughed. "I gotta stay away from you." lege and the Braille Institute, which is also located Hardships in life started early for John. In on Vermont Avenue, adjacent to the campus. 1978, he was only three years old and still in Sai­ "I was very scared to have to come to Ameri­ gon at the end of the Vietnam War. He and one of ca," John said. "I didn't know what it would be like his younger brothers contracted measles. His broth­ or anything. It made me feel really good to learn of er died and John was left blind. It was the first of American freedom, that you can do whatever you many challenges for a boy whose father was one of want. And I get help to learn English, because when many American soldiers who abandoned their chil­ I got here, I didn't speak any English." dren in Vietnam when they returned to the United States after the war. Life is different now, where before there was "My father left before me and my brother never a choice of places to go or things to do. caught the measles and my mom couldn't take care John studies English and music at City Col­ of us" John said, "so after my brother died I was lege. For years, music provided one of the few sent to a school for blind people." pleasures he experienced at the blind school in Blindness and poverty meant education was Saigon. He plays guitar and piano and has even not an option for John. His mother had her hands played around town. But after a day at school, he full caring for his other siblings once John's father is happiest to simply go home, sit by himself and left - five brothers and three sisters. play rock and roll, jazz, blues and other American The blind center in Saigon where he would music. One of his favorites is by the Righteous spend more than 10 years of his life was not what Brothers. most Americans would consider a place to get help. "Whooooaw my love, my darling, I've hun­ The facility was packed with victims of the war, the gered for your touch, a long, lonely time...," John sick and other refugees. John says it was more like sang what he describes as his favorite song. "I re­ a prison than a place to learn. ally like that song when the Righteous Brothers did He spent the formative years of his life in a it in the movie 'Ghosts.'" room that he says resembled an overcrowded pris­ Time spent in the U.S. represents an improve­ on cell. Roommates lining the walls, curled up on ment over John's childhood. However, he describes cots, prevented from going elsewhere in the facil­ a deep longing to be connected to friends and fami­ ity, and workers scurrying back and forth from one ly members, who he says are on his mind on a daily patient to another. basis. His brothers and sisters are in the U.S. now, "They want to kill you," John said. "They but he does not ever see them. don't care. You get sick; they let you die if you "I haven't seen any of my family for a long can't get better on your own. There's no money, time now," John said. "It's hard to make friends there's no food. That's why they want to kill you." when you're blind and can barely speak English. Life there was hard as he spent day after day, Nobody wants to be friends with someone who's warehoused in a room, cut off from his family—for blind and women say how can you take care of me years. He recalls that the facility just housed too when you can't take care of yourself?" many people and many of the sick or neglected John says the fact that he is blind does not died. It was a reflection of the difficulties outside make him helpless nor does it mean he cannot do the school's walls in postwar Vietnam. The South things for himself. Vietnamese lost their freedom. The people were In the meantime, he often stands outside, at poor and they lived in squalor. the college steps, leaning against a ledge, wearing There was no money and crime plagued the dark glasses, listening to people passing by, listen­ city, so there was very little opportunity for John to ing and smoking Marlboro menthol cigarettes.

Collegian Times 29 ANSWERING THE CALL OF By Andrea Rodriguez return back home to his family in Chicago to celebrate "My first day out I was a dismount, just another able Photo by Abimael Rivera his 20th birthday. body. It was supposed to be a routine check-up on the vil­ "My gunnery sergeant called me and asked if I still lagers to see if they had new intel," Duenas said. "After 'There are three questions that are always asked wanted to go to Iraq," Duenas said. "I said 'Hell Yes!' He conducting a census in the village for several hours, we when I meet someone new: 'So you were in the mili­ then told me I was leaving with security detail and that packed up and started to head back to base. On our way tary?' my unit will be taking off Friday, which was the 27th of to base we get reports that there's been recent activity in 'Yes.' July, my birthday." a town nearby. So we went to check it out." 'Were you deployed?' Due to air flight complications, the military pushed As they made their way to the village, Duenas' 'Yes.' back the date and Duenas left for Iraq at the end of July. gunner noticed some copper wiring on the berm. They 'Did you kill anybody?' It was a 22-hour flight from Los Angeles to Boston, from stopped, thinking it might be a pressure sensitive mine. Cris Duenas fits in, and there's not a chance in the Boston to Germany, from Germany to Kuwait and from They then realized after opening the door and looking world you would know that this guy has been blown up or Kuwait to Iraq. As the soldiers got off the plane the one outside that this could be their last day. They were right shot at. He's very friendly, inviting, charismatic and cheer­ thing that they could immediately feel was the 145-de­ on top of the mine. They were in the kill zone. ful. He cracks jokes here and there. He adapts to any new gree-heat. Duenas said they called it in to their staff sergeant environment. That's because he's had to learn to do so. It did not help much that these men were in full so he could instruct them on what to do. While they were He wears a smile and he does so with pride, just combat gear, which includes a bulletproof vest, their on the phone, the gunner in Duenas' Humvee said he like the dog tags hanging from his neck. He's a veteran Kevlar (helmet), long-sleeved flame retardant cammis, could see a man on a boat about 100 yards to the right. who served four and a half years in Iraq and Afghanistan. weapons, ammo carried on the vest and a backpack with Duenas then told him to "put his eyes on." Duenas left for boot camp when he was 19 years old and food, water, extra ammo and a medical kit. The gunner looked through his binoculars and told was looking forward to it. He was not just another teen­ "I would say our uniform would be compared to the team that the man was fidgeting with something in ager pushed to join the military or a kid with no direc­ what you see in 'Call of Duty.' The heat just slaps you his hands: It looked like he was holding a remote control. tion. He was not looking for an easy way out. This was in the face," Duenas said. "It's like turning the oven to Duenas grabbed his scope to confirm what his gunner was his plan and he wanted to join. 500 for 15 to 20 minutes and sticking your whole head in seeing and he told his vehicle commander that he saw the "I wanted to be like Rambo, he shoots everything there. That's how hot it is over there." man holding the remote as well, pushing away at it look­ and comes out in one piece," Duenas said. "I grew up Once Duenas and his platoon arrived they got a day ing in their direction. watching his movies as a child and I would watch them off to rest, then spent the entire month training and getting It was all they needed to know to be sure that this over and over again. I told myself that [would] be me acclimated. A couple of days after training was over, Due­ was no longer a pressure sensitive mine, but a remote con­ one day." nas got assigned to the scout team, where soldiers gather trolled Improvised Explosive Device (IED). His first deployment was to Iraq. He received the "intelligence" and go into towns to look for individuals on call to deploy while he was in training. He had plans to the "United States' Most Wanted List" for terrorism. See Call of Duty, Page 43

Collegian Times 30 i—Opinion DAY OFTHE DEAD By Hyun Chung Illustration by Billy Monroe

Vl_rilama bin Laden is dead; so what? For us average Joe and Joanna's- Sch- mos, our troubles will still go on. Students at community colleges will find that tuition will keep on getting higher, much faster than the rate of inflation. Classes that are "full" will defer many a dream of higher education. Not even bin Laden's death will help the state balance its budget or stabilize the cost of education. Osama bin Laden was always a ghostly boogeyman shown on CNN, a thin man dressed in white, with a smoky gray beard. Now I am told that the boogeyman is gone. No child believes such nonsense. When 9/11 occurred, I was trying to crash in a class because it was full. In­ stead of a lecture and handing out the syllabi, the professor was showing a video of what was later explained as the Twin Towers engulfed in flames. I had never I) I \ seen the Twin Towers in my life. I was just resentful the professor was not hand­ Osama bin Laden never made me want to hide underneath my bed covers; un­ ing out add slips, not fully aware of what had occurred. At that time, 9/11 meant like the terror of knowing that the rent was due and that I could not afford to pay it. This nothing to me. Although I sound heartless, 9/11 still means nothing to me. was while receiving increasingly more threatening letters from collection agencies, I fear that bin Laden has become a Moby Dick-figure for the truly testosterone- demanding payment of an outrageous sum for the hospitalization of my sick father. insane machos and radical Republicans in our country. Instead of investigating the Even more problematic was his inability to cover the high cost of health insurance. motives of Al Qaeda, the ad-hominem attack on bin Laden has become a farce, For LACC students, we still struggle to get on with our education. Most of us diverting attention from genuine issues such as education and healthcare. 9/11 was have jobs to financially sustain our dependents and ourselves. Frankly, my dear, never about bin Laden but about the Muslim terrorists' need to end U.S. imperialism. I don't give a damn that Osama bin Laden is dead.

After the first day of classes, I questioned my sanity. My smart-as-a-whip English in­ structor Daniel Ruiz told us we'd be reading five novels, writing five essays, one research MY EMBEDDED paper, and taking two exams. Extremely knowledgeable Douglas Dutton, an accomplished musician and fellow book lover, painted an equally daunting picture for Music—four concert reports and two multiple-choice exams with listening tests. Fellow students, I feel your pain. When you come to the Library feeling stressed about SEMESTER your course load, I understand. But trust me. The journey is so worthwhile. I can't think of a better place to discuss ethnic American literature than right here at Los Angeles City College By Liz Gnerre, Librarian among classmates fromever y ethnic culture we are reading. Photo by Luis Rivas Need toreliev e some of that stress? Spend a Tuesday evening in Clausen Hall 247 listen­ ing to classical music—it's just the tonic you need. Seek out subjects that interest you, take As the newest faculty librarian in the Martin Lu­ advantage of email and office hours to engage your professor in conversation as well as to ther King, Jr. Library, I'm constantly amazed by the clarify concepts that puzzle you, and know that we librarians sit at the reference desk every variety of questions we get at the reference desk. Each hour the Library is open solely to help you succeed. Gotta go. I have to write a six-page paper request, from the origins of bipedalism, to the broken on Latino Culture—unified concept or region-dependent? Discuss amongst yourselves. promise of forty acres and a mule affords reference li­ brarians the chance to indulge in a guilty pleasure—the pursuit of knowledge for knowledge's sake.

hen we help you find the information you need for a class assignment, we get to learn right along with you. We certainly don't know everything, but Wwe're really good at knowing where to look. The thing is, all of this looking stuff up for you whet my appetite. I was a little jealous when I handed over literary criticism of Kafka's novella Metamorphosis (remember to look it up under its German title, Die Verwandlung). I'd only had five minutes with Gregor the giant insect while you got to spend an entire semester with him and bis literary character pals. I wanted in. Little known fact about librarians: we're not all English majors. The beauty of pursuing a Masters in Library Science is you can major in just about anything prior to library school. I double-majored in communications and German and took just two English classes as an undergrad. I always wished I'd taken more, and now was my chance. I am also intrigued by the concept of the "embedded librarian," the idea of moving the librarian out of the Library and into departments or classrooms to anticipate and facili - tate reference needs. After discussing the idea with my very accommodating department Chair, Barbara Vasquez, and with the much-appreciated cooperation of my fellow library faculty, I registered for English 219 - Literature of American Ethnic Groups and Music 111 - Music Appreciation. Collegian Times 31 ^

Generation Parent: Children While at By Luis Rivas Blustration by Ronnie Robinson, age six College

Collegian Times 32 The seven-year-old spends most of his time playing childcare service, which is free for families with low-income, the popular Internet game Club Penguin as he waits for his while she attends school on a daily basis, something she says mom, Dena, to finish up her school work at Los Angeles makes college life a lot more manageable. '/>& City College. "It offers peace of mind that your child is safe. They Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, for about work with your schedule; they work with your income. For four hours a day from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Dena brings her son me, I'm a full-time student. People are friendly here. It of­ to school with her. fers me peace of mind that my child is on campus with He says that his mom spends less time with him because me," Sadi said. she's at school, but he does not mind. At the Center on Vermont Avenue, student parents re­ "She's nice and she's good as a student I play Club Pen­ ceive the opportunity to enroll their children in the center's guin until I leave," he said. preschool. The second-grader's mother has been going to City Col­ Argelia Hernandez, program technician at the Cen­ lege since 2009 as a political science major. ter, walks back and forth from child to child. The soft, gray More parents are going back to school due to a walls are covered by child drawings, parent memos and lunch plummeting economy, dwindling job markets, outsourc­ menus. She answers the phone. She zooms by miniature and ing, you name it. Single parents in particular have it hard brightly-colored furniture. Her sandals make scuffing noises in juggling their education, raising children, a home life on the carpet. and career. There are 85 parents currently enrolled in the Center; its How they do it is a mystery. The ability to go to school capacity is 90 children. Out of those 85,81 are student parents. and raise a family while surviving in Los Angeles is a feat In 2010, approximately 60 percent of the students enrolled within itself. came from a two parent household, according to Hernandez. What tricks do they have, what magic do they employ? Hernandez remembers a fellow student parent that had Bianca Sadi, psychology major and single mother, gen­ to take her child to class on a regular basis back in the 90s. She tly hushes her three-year-old son, Noah who goes by the nick­ and other students had to take turns to walk the baby in the name "Bruno," before she explains the reason she returned hallway of the second floor ofthe Administration Building for to school. a Family Consumers Studies class. Childcare was not avail­ 'T definitely decided that a career is the only way to be able on campus then. The student parent was able to transfer able to sustain my family," Sadi said. "So it wouldn't be just and will receive her Bachelor of Arts degree this June. Her having a non-degree job, especially with the way the econo­ son Joseph is 11 years old now. my is. I'm fortunate that this program [childcare] [is] on cam­ Hernandez graduated high school in 1991. She was a pus. It's a great setting for him." teenage mother with two kids at 19. She first became a student Sadi is a widow with four children. After her husband in 1995. Hernandez utilized the Center her first semester as a died, she returned to college to earn a bachelor's degree in student to watch her daughter. She was eventually hired Janu­ psychology. Sadi graduated from Mount Saint Mary's Col­ ary 1997 and has been there ever since. lege in 1993. She enrolled in Victor Valley College part-time The importance of having free or affordable child care in Victorville in 2006 and transferred to LACC in the spring on campus is obvious, so important that "41 percent [of stu­ of 2010. dent parents] said they would drop out if the center wasn't "I'm a widow; I have four children and so that's even around," according to Hernandez. more reasons for me to make sure that I have a guaranteed "For me it would mean that I wouldn't be able to go job hopefully in teaching. That's my ultimate goal," she said. to school. Because I am low-income, I can't afford to pay a Bruno has somehow got a hold of a business card and person to take care of my children. And I have two children so plays with it for a few seconds before handing it over to his it would be much more expensive and it wouldn't be possible mother. Bruno looks up at his mom and waits for the reward for me," said criminal justice major Ana Jaquez. of approval. Jaquez sits in the waiting room of the Center. Her two "Thank you, baby," Sadi said. boys, four-year-old Adrian and five-year-oldBrian , play with Bumo runs away excited, giddy with perhaps the satis­ two giant stuffed teddy bears wearing LACC T-Shirts from a fying sense of having done something good and worthy. red Radio Flyer wagon. Sadi uses the Campus Child Development Center's Like many student parents, Jaquez came back to school

Size of Household for Student Parents Enrolled in the Campus Child Development Center in 2010* little boy peers over the computer desk in an office on campus with his right hand on the mouse and the other hovering over the keyboard, ready to strike the space bar and send a penguin flying, his short legs barely touching the ground. 60% Married 20.40% Single 19.40% Divorced

*Data taken from the annual State of California Department of Education Desired Results for Children and Family Survey.

Collegian Times 33 to obtain a degree and high-salary career in order to bet­ ter the life of her family. Jaquez returned to school in the fall of 2009 and is grateful for the Center. Size of Household for Student Parents Enrolled in the Campus Adrian plays with one of the computers in the waiting Child Development Center in 2011* section of the Center. Dorian Kay Harris, director for the Campus Child Development Center, gently tells him to stop punching the keys on the keyboard. Adrian, who is polite, stops immediately, child and teacher exercising mutual respect. Edwin Merino, a business major, carries his three-and- half-year-old son Enzo over to a table inside the Center's waiting room. He and his wife both attend LACC. His son smiles as he sits on his father's knee. He kicks his feet, fidg­ eting, almost exploding with energy. Merino understands the significance of having childcare on campus. "It's very important. We'd have to have them get [tak­ en care of] somewhere else, or we need to look for some­ thing else. Not only that, here, we don't pay. We pay zero. If we look for something else, we definitely need to pay," Merino said. Not having the convenience of free childcare on cam­ 55.60% Married 33% Single 11% Divorced ! -^ pus would be a deal-breaker for most, but Merino and his O wife would continue to go to school at LACC. Not exactly *Data taken from the annual State of California Department of Education Desired Results for Children and Family Survey. sure how, but they would do it - just another obstacle in the road for a student, just another feat in the road of parenting. Enzo's tinyhand s slap the counter-top where his father able to find childcare, which the Center offers, and centers room to check up on Tylen, who is playing with Hernandez sits. He enjoys the Center, especially the food. near CSUN had offered too. In reality, it is after school that is as she reflects on exactly why she decided to returnt o school. "I ate. Macaroni and cheese," Enzo lies. the most difficult. "For my son, to be able to make some money to take Meshing his imagination with memory produces his "When I'm not able to finish homework, when she wants care of him. I had him in 2008, when the recession started," answer. In actuality they had a healthy lunch of turkey salad my attention, having to divide my homework time with her Singletary said. Tm the lowest man on the totem pole be­ with chopped zucchini, carrots, grape tomatoes and a half - playing with her is your stress relief time,"Rodrigue z said. cause I only had a high school diploma." hardboiled egg and a carton of milk. Singletary is not sure if she will transfer to a university. Enzo and many other children play with a toy maca- She prefers to take things day by day, cautious not to be over­ roni-and-cheese mold inside the pastel blue-pink-and-white whelmed. Fisher-Price play stove, fully equipped with miniature green Generation Parent: "Once I get to the graduation day, then I'll be able to toy pots, pans and bright yellow plastic silverware. Student parents speak from the heart make my next step," Singletary said. When asked what he did today at childcare, Enzo gives Tylen is singing "The Alligator Song" next to Hernan­ an odd answer. "You know what, I needed to go back to dez, something taught earlier in the day in childcare. Single­ 'T read a nice book, 'Scary Face,'" Enzo said. school - it's not for me, it's for her." tary looks at him adoringly and smiles. "Scary face?" Merino asks, concerned. "Are you sure? "He's the reason I do everything - to try to be a better I'm going to ask your teacher," Merino said. - Rebecca Rodriguez, person," Singletary said. "Nooooooooo," Enzo answers, playfully whining, music major Singletary cannot imagine life without the Center. The pleading with his father in fear that in some way he might most important thing that the Center has given her is peace of get in trouble. "He's the reason I do everything -to try to mind that her son is fine and close by. Again, in reality his teacher read the children's book be a better person." "This is a life-saver. I love it. I know that my son is safe. "Go Away, Big Green Monster!" by Ed Emberley to the class. - Navonne Singletary, That's the most important thing. I can call anytime," Single­ "The reason the Center started was that we [student par­ tary said. ents] took our kids to class with us," Harris said. "We started human services major Kathy Sutherland is a program specialist with the Em­ petitioning the state for funding to open [child development] "A lot of women couldn't do what they ployment Development Department's Workforce center on centers." campus. Her grandson Jove attends the Center. The Center was established in Feb. 1975 after a cam­ do without this Center." "It's been a godsend for me. My daughter is 15 and paign for equal opportunities for student parents. The reason - Kathy Sutherland, she went here," Sutherland said. "The childcare center here for establishing the Center began in 1973. Back then most Workforce program specialist is fabulous - especially for single women. A lot of women colleges didn't have childcare centers. couldn't do what they do without this Center." Harris remembers not having childcare on campus. She Jove stands with his back against the door of the Center, remembers when she had to bring her 20-month-old into a eagerly yet patiently waiting to go home to his mother. Jove psychology class while she took an exam. She finds a way to deal with it by relying on her boy­ seems timid but courteous, his eyes searching and ready for "That was a lot of stress," Harris said. friend, her daughter's father. when his grandmother makes the initial signal to leave. She sits at her desk inside the Center, a computer monitor "We take turns. He's going to do homework and I play Sutherland smiles, bends down and reaches for Jove's at her left side, a small shelf of toys to her right She knows with her, then we switch," Rodriguez said. already extended arm. They leave the center hand-in-hand. the laundry list of reasons why parents are returning to school. She plans on pursuing a career in teaching and is cur­ As Hernandez closes up and the last batch of parents "The economy, they're jobless, to get a degree moti­ rently enrolled in the music program. Her daughter plays on stop by to pick up their children, the true value of the Cam­ vated them to go back to school," she said. the carpeted floor with other children waiting to be picked up. pus Child Development Center is realized. However, what is Rebecca Rodriguez, a music major, has also decided "She plays piano with me so I'm sharing my knowl­ most striking is not the Center. to return to school. She received her Associate of Arts at edge, what I learned, with her - we're having fun," smiles What is most striking is the will, commitment and disci­ Pierce College in 2005 and graduated from California State Rodriguez. pline employed by all the parents that have returnedt o school. University, Northridge (CSUN) with a Bachelor of Arts in Navonne Singletary is another student mother. She is These student parents are determined. They merge the Liberal Studies. When she found out she was pregnant with majoring in human services,while raising her only child, innate selflessness found in parents with a healthy sense of her daughter, she decided to returnt o school. two-and-a-half-year-old Tylen, by herself. selfishness that is embedded in a single-minded student "You know what, I needed to go back to school - it's not 'T went back to school when he was one, but then I What is most striking is how these student parents will for me, it's for her," Rodriguez said, referringt o her daughter stopped going - there was a death in the family and I was do whatever it takes to provide a decent and high quality life who plays in the Center's waiting room. overwhelmed by class work," Singletary said. for their family, perpetuating a cycle of higher education that For Rodriguez, one of the hardest things is not being Singletary peers out into the Center's front waiting will be passed down from generation to generation.

Collegian Times 34 By Tanya Flowers Photo by Abimael Rivera

aw, gritty and brutally honest, "Curb Creatures", is a documentary di­ rected by Carlos Manuel Aguilar that follows the heartbreaking, real life experiences of the homeless who wander the streets of Hollywood. Aguilar captures crude imagery like Mya Johnson, three months pregnant as she stands on a Downtown Los Angeles rooftop, con­ templatinRg her options. She alternates between puffing on marijuana and a menthol cigarette. Johnson rubs her belly with affection as she shares her thoughts of wanting a better future for her unborn child. This scene is nothing special, ifs normal here. The documentary follows seven individuals and exposes the harsh conditions of living on the streets in Los Angeles. Nathan Charles is a Las Vegas native who is addicted to heroin. He spends most of his time with his close friend Sean. They roam Hollywood street corners or stay holed up in cheap motel rooms on all night drug binges. High School dropout and runaway, Amber Kennedy, a 16-year-old orphan found love with her boyfriend Scott. Both are meth addicts and frequent the hills that the Hol­ lywood sign calls home. Meet Tony Martinez, the lyricist and dope addict who was "born an outcast." The land of the stars attracted Robert Lynch from the lone star state of Texas. Lynch was homeless for seven months and is living with HIV/AIDS. Their lives and circumstances uncover the struggles and disturbing truths behind the glamorous Hollywood scene. Lynch orbits between Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles. He talks to himself and is often alone. "I was diagnosed with schizophrenia since I was a child," said Lynch who reveals what it is like to be an outsider. He can still recall the vivid scenes documented in the film with detailed emotions. In hindsight, as he watches himself in the film, he reflects on these moments as, "doing the first step over and over again." That first step is now the realization of a better future. Lynch is now enrolled at LACC. He is studying to become a drug and alcohol coun­ selor so he can help others. "If they need help with quitting drugs and alcohol, I know that I can assist them. I could show them that [there is] a different way and that they don't have to live like that," Lynch said. He sounded optimistic while discussing his future. Although his past experiences were challenging, he now has the ability to help drug addicts build a new life. 'They can change and not everyone can be on that personal level and be able to say that they walked in their shoes," Lynch said. "I mean, to me, ifs just a gift. I could show them there is a different way." Reactions to Aguilars depiction of Hollywood's reality were strong. It struck an in­ ner chord with many of the viewers. "When I saw the screening a lot of people were speechless," said City College Community Service Instructor, Brian King. He watched the film at USC's school of Cin­ ematic Arts Summer Screening Series, which showcases world cinema, documentaries and independent films. King later met with Lynch and Aguilar to commend the film's tone. He discovered Lynch's plan to attend LACC and felt that his story was important. "His story needs to be told," King said. "We have to get it out there." The director feels the movie's intent, despite its somber nature, is to make an im­ pact on viewers with a powerful message. "Ifs amazing that people come to Hollywood, walk the main street, take a picture and they go away and never get to see what's going on behind the scenes," Aguilar said. "Nothing was set up. Nothing was preplanned. I was just a fly on the wall, experiencing what they were experiencing." Charles is three weeks sober; Martinez the outcast, went to prison; Johnson, the expectant mom left Hollywood; Kennedy, the runaway meth addict lives in a house in Palmdale, her boyfriend Scott returned to Nevada and Lynch has been sober for 16 months. Through graphic appeal, Aguilar shows the brutal nature of life's extreme situations and the resiliency of the human spirit. 'These are the people who teach me the most in life because they have learned the most, they have been through it all," Aguilar said.

Collegian Times 35 ** * /A /1 try. THE AMERICAN SOLDIER V .N By Luis Rivas the kids playing soccer while brothers fight over politics, the SELF-ADDRESSED 1st Place Winner ofthe 13th Annual music of culture loudly played Writing Contest for Spring 2011 at LACC for the entire block to hear By Marsha A. Perry neighbors wanting or not as the american soldier Dear Me: locks his sight on iraqi as the american soldier Don't put yourself down, pick yourself up and look on the inside, journalists in new baghdad is used as an instrument of because it's within yourself that you should trust. Don't worry thought to have ak-47s, does destruction, racism, occupation about those eye-catohing photographs in a magazine, because not he know that the oil used to and imperialism, does he think everything in print is what it may seem. keep his gun greased is silicone about going back home where ; based, does the soldier know his family is being persecuted No one is perfect and flawless,yes , we all have issues, and no one that silicone is made up of tiny for having accents in arizona, a is free from skeletons locked inside unorganized closets. All you beads, like sand; does he know last name that ends with 'ez, but have to do is be you, because you never know what someone else that, that the same desert sand he doesn't think about the sand is going through. You never know what it's like to walk in their floor that absorbs the spilled and the gun oil and the tiny shoes and you never know all the pain they've been through. blood of the iraqi journalists beads that make up the oil, that is one in the same as the oil he the innocent man he looks down No one else can paint an image better than you, so don't be uses to caress, maintain, hug upon and slays in new baghdad deceived if the images that you see painted, poised, and exploited and handle the apache's mounted resembles his uncle, his cousin ain't a reflection of you. machine gun, breathing in slowly his father, himself, but he does and pulling the trigger softly not know that; that borders, race Don't let someone else's face and body size make you think less while exhaling, feeling the country, the sense of detachment of yourself on the inside. Believe me, you have to first love no percussion of the automatic religion, pride, hate—however one else but you and don't make a habit of falling in love with shots reverberating through the patriotic is a myth someone other than you. Because can't nobody love you better metal body ofthe apache, through than you, and can't no one make you more happy than you. What his arms, through his chest \3»-.:' so that the american soldier can counts in life is your soul, and not the people that you meet; only a make the correlation, so that he sees perfect picture reflects security. as the american soldier the oneness, the impact that he has that is of mexican descent and the impact the world has had Funny how people think beauty is on the outside and neglect with light-brown skin and dark on him, not a single moment should beautiful spirits buried inside. We get caught up flunking we brown hair and eyes locks his pass with silence; peace should be should be cosmetically and artificially made-up; eventually sight on iraqi journalists thought illegal; not a single american flag dissatisfied with our real selves and staying camouflaged-up. to be armed with rpgs in new should fly upright baghdad, who share his same It ain't about your shell. It ain't about your clothes. It ain't about identifying characteristics, does not a single your hair or your nose. It's not about your house or your teeth - it he think about iraqi families military recruitment center should does not matter how much money you frivolouslyspen t last week. celebrating birthdays with grilled remain standing It's not about your friends or status in Ivy league schools - or if heavily-marinated meat and beer your eyes are chocolate brown or sky blue. It does not matter how many vacations you have been on or heading to - in the end it is all about your soul, because that's all about you.

P.S. Take a look inside - learn to open up your soul and let the effects of man-made insecurities go.

Sincerely, Life Collegian Times 36 A NEW HOME

By Stephen Clements Robin touches me So does Diane and Dawn. 2nd Place Winner ofthe 13th Annual Writing Contest for Spring 2011 at LACC At 5:00 we convene in the Large dining room I gaze up, the journey over After momentary quietude we •. •* Espy two buildings each foreboding and frightening. Whisper that redundant incantation.

I approach the least imposing and Are we blessed because of youth or Walk a flight of stairs to the second floor. Hallowed by gloom and disenchantment?

On the facing wall a portraiture After school I throw a football An image reflecting the subdued Wash dishes and give Embodying its timeworn tradition. Debbie and Pat a smoke.

"This is Haskin's Hall," a At night I study with assiduity Concerned housemother speaks as if in Make the honor roll Personification of that image of Mrs.Haskins. Thumb through the sports page Start to like girls. The dorm somewhat impaired and insipid Resembles an asylum They attach a moniker: Its hospital beds and sickly institutionlike ambience Toad, Hoot and Clem. Is a shelter for kids from broken homes Mean kids and nice kids in need of shelter I grow to six feet Orphans and kids that could not adjust. Drink beer at the tresse Shave my beard. Here I brawl with Billy Decker, Howard, And Bobby Lucas that sorrowful day. And leave Wyoming Conference Home For wayward children Winters we bombard one another On a promising day in June. Summers we swim Sleep under the stars.

Girls touch me I walk nervously the tracks to school Lead a schizophrenic life Ride my bike to the store Mrs. Calvert lends me a television Roommate taunts me Finds friendship with hamsters.

I encounter fascination Laud my awareness and idolize Bobby Mercer and O.J. Simpson

Collegian Times 37 Find Your Balance With Yoga

By Whitney Shepard Photos by Luis Rivas

From healing knee injuries to relieving anxiety and depression, yoga offers benefits to everyone. The common misconception is that yoga is only for those who are flexible. The truth is, the people who are stiff and suffering from injuries need it the most. Professional athletes often use yoga as a supplemental practice to preserve their bodies and actresses use it to stay in camera-ready shape. Students can take advantage ofthe stress relieving benefits and use it to help focus.

DOWN DOG Everyone has heard of this pose. Though it looks easy, and is fairly simple, it can be a challenge to master. Most of your weight is held in your upper body, which works to really strengthen your arms. The positioning of your legs works to stretch out hamstrings (the large muscle in the back of your upper legs). Down Dog feels great on your calves, so you may find yourself using this pose to stretch even without doing a full yoga workout. If you plan on taking any yoga classes, this is a pose you want to be familiar with -you'll spend a lot of time in it

Get Into the Pose: 1. Begin on your hands and knees. 2. Inhale and tuck your toes under your heels. 3. Exhale and lift your hips creating an upside down "V". 4. Hold for five breaths. 5. Transition from this pose to another, or return to you hands and knees to get out of it. Tips: Spread out your fingers to give yourself a strong base. Aim to keep your legs straight (no bent knees) and your heels flat on your mat. Relax your head and focus your gaze through your legs. Yoga instructor Myla Ivers is certified in Bikrim, power, prenatal and kids yoga. She took the time to share four of her favorite poses that offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits to everyone from beginners to advanced yogis.

Collegian Times 38 WARRIOR 2 This pose is great when trying to achieve those short-skirt legs that are a summer must have. It strengthens your legs, especially your quads (the muscle in the front of your upper leg). When doing Warrior 2, you will also strengthen your upper body and core as you concentrate on elongating your spine and pulling your belly in. Regular practice of this pose will also increase your stamina, and hey, it's great for relieving backaches too!

Get Into the Pose: 1. Begin in Down Dog. 2. Step your right foot forward between your palms. 3. While keeping your legs and feet strong and steady, extend your arms out to your sides in a'T" as you rotate your upper body to the left. 4. Hold for five breaths (or however many make your body happy), and return to Down Dog. 5. Step your left foot forward and repeat for balanced benefits. Tips: Your frontthig h should be parallel to the ground with your right knee directly over your right ankle. Shoulders should be stacked directly above your pelvis.

HALF PIGEON For the student who spends a lot of time sitting at a desk in a classroom or studying, and is always on the go, Half Pigeon is great. This pose will open up your hips and help prevent lower back pain, which can be caused from sitting for long periods of time.Considerin g that we tend to hold a lot of stress and tension in our hips, Half Pigeon can not only help your flexibility, but also help release all that test-stress you're holding onto.

Get Into the Pose: 1. Begin in Down Dog. 2. Bring both feet together and bring your rightkne e forward between your hands. 3. Once your hips feel open, inch your rightfoo t away from you keeping your left hip pointing down. 4. Walk your hands out in fronto f you (once your body feels ready) and allow your upper body to rest on your frontleg . 5. Hold for five breaths (more or less will also work, just listen to your body). 6. Repeat on the other side for balanced benefits. Tips: Get out of this pose slowly as your legs may feel weird afterward. The longer you stay in this pose, the more your hips will open up and the greater the benefits.

SPINE TWIST Got toxins?Thi s seated spine-twist not only works to stretch out your back and improve your posture, but it also releasestoxin s fromyou r body. Imagine wringing out a wet towel - that is exactly what this pose does to your organs and intestines. This is a great beginner's pose with massive benefits.

Get Into the Pose: 1. Begin seated with your legs out in front of you. 2. Bend your right knee, cross it over your left leg. 3. Plant your righthan d firm on your mat behind you to give you support. 4. Reach your left arm over your right knee and place your left elbow on the outside of your rightkne e to help you twist. 5. Stay here for five breaths. You can do more or less; just listen to your body. 6. Slowly untwist your body, and switch sides. Tips: This pose also works to relieve gas and bloating, so if experiencing either of those symptoms, you may want to do this one alone in private.

•yrnxsm Collegian Times 39 Former LACC student opened a museum showcasing serial killers and death. xhibits on display elude Tibetan funeral heads, electric hairs and thought provoking photographs.

By Ryan Lichten Photos by Sky Bermudas

Collegian Times 40 Healy stood patiently waiting to enter the third rial killers, the first of its kind. J.D. had spoken to Memro J.D. sits on a barstool behind the front counter with an ear- and final security check before prison guards led through letters but had no idea what to expect when he met to-ear smile across his face as he recalls his days running his him into the San Quentin day room, where he him in person. San Diego gallery and meeting with serial killers. Although would have his first meeting with a serial killer. "Reno always signed his letters with a weird smiley pictures and artifacts of the macabre surround him, one can He was nervous; he had no way of knowing what was to face that had crooked eyes and a tongue sticking out and I tell that he absolutely loves life. come of this meeting. He passed the last security check where never had any idea why he did that until I saw him enter the As an artist, J.D. views his museum as his master­ they had him sign a waiver. room," J.D. said. "He had a pretty bad lazy eye and he kept piece, the final summation of a lifetime worth of collecting When J.D. began to read details outlined in the waiver, sticking his tongue out like he had a nervous tick or some­ and discovery. This work of art however is one that contin­ things became real. thing. It was kind of funny, but I was freaking out." ues to grow. "It took a long time to get in because of all the search­ A friend told J.D. that he should bring a couple rolls "People offer me things all of the time to put in the es, but in the last room before they let you into the visiting of quarters, because the people he was visiting wouldn't museum," J.D. said. "Sometimes it can be something really area, they had me sign these forms that basically stated that want to talk unless he could buy them things from the vend­ great that we (he and his wife) are really interested in, and if there was a riot or if the people I was visiting attacked me ing machines that were in the visiting room. When Memro other times it can be something that we wouldn't even think that the state is not liable," Healy said. "The walls caved in walked out into the room he went right over to J.D. and about putting on display, things that people really aren't really quick after I signed that paper because I didn't know sat down next to him, they greeted each other and then he even legally allowed to have." I was going to have to do something like that." promptly stated, "I want some pizza." The museum's provides an eclectic look into the world After he signed the waiver, he was finallyallowe d into They began their conversation by talking about the art of death and dying. J.D. has everything on display from the day room. He was supposed to be meeting with two se­ show that Memro was going to be featured in and slowly antique mortician instruments to serial killer artwork and rial killers on that day, "The Night Stalker of Los Angeles" moved onto the more personal subjects, like Memro's even a full-sized display of the famous Heaven's Gate cult Richard Ramirez, and child murderer Reno Memro. crimes. suicide. When he arrived he was told that Ramirez had his visi­ "I asked him if he really killed those people and he "I knew it couldn't just be about serial killers because tation privileges revoked earlier that day and would not be just said that he didn't do it and would ask for a soda or there is so much more to death and death in itself is what I allowed to visit. J.D. was somewhat disappointed but that is something like that," J.D. said. "Serial killers don't really wanted to focus on," he said. why he had two meetings scheduled: Reno Memro was his want to talk about their crimes during visits, it almost seems J.D. attended LACC in the fall of 1984 when he backup plan. boring to them." worked on his associate's degree. Once he entered the visiting room, he quickly realized After spending close to $20 on the vending machines, "I never really got too into the school when I went why he had to sign a waiver. There were three sets of doors J.D. decided it was time go. He did not want to hang around there," he said. "I can't remember what issues were impor­ separating him from the guards and nothing separating him to see what would happen if he ran out of quarters. tant around campus or anything like that—the only thing from the notorious child murderer he was there to see. J.D.'s serial-killer art show was a huge success. It was I really remember people talking about was the Olympics Memro was serving a life sentence in prison for the this show that really jump-started the serial-killer memo­ because they were being held in Los Angeles that year. I murder and molestation of 7-year-old Carl Carter Jr. rabilia trend of the early 1990s, during which serial killer stopped attending after one semester and moved to Europe." There were several other convicts visiting their fami­ collector's cards, comic books and even t-shirts were pur­ The self-made businessman and artist has managed to lies and friends as well, which came as a relief to J.D. be­ chased by the thousands. It also brought his San Diego gal­ earn a living from something he truly loves. As another cause the chance of something bad happening in the pres­ lery worldwide recognition. satisfied customer exits the museum, J.D. shouts "Have a ence of the other families was slim. His main reason for It was the success of his "Death Row Art Show" that great life!" visiting death row was to discuss his upcoming art show inspired him to take his gallery to the next level and open It is a strange but cheerful piece of advice from some­ that was to be entirely comprised of art created by se­ the now famous Museum of Death in Hollywood. Inside, one who has made their living from death.

The framed photograph of a shirtless boy holding a gun in his mouth was taken by writer and musician Lydia Lunch in 1995. Collegian Times 41 f ^e*£m i • TWm^z ^^.IPS Efifca, ' '"fci W^A^>»*,*^>«^ v*SSJS

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Clockwise from left to right: Artist's rendition ofthe portrait of Charles Manson as seen on the cover of Life Magazine by the artist Pizz. Inside a glass display sit two small Tibetan funeral skulls.

J.D. Healy smiles while grabbing a skull inside the Museum of Death.

A lifelike mannequin lies on a bunk bed wearing an original outfit from the Heaven's Gate suicide of 1997 where 36 people took their own lives in Southern California.

The electric chair was featured in "Death Row," the publication that lists all the people on death row. Il *%m

Collegian Times 42 The Rules of Engagement are what Duenas is refer­ which is to "pop a flare." ring to. A staff sergeant was riding along in the lead Hum­ "The rules," he said, "are you can't shoot back at vee. He was calling the shots. The semi did not slow the enemy unless you can identify who's shooting at you. down. The staff sergeant instructed them to fire two Don't fire unless fired upon, and everything has to be warning shots to the far left and far right of the vehicle Call of Duty called in before you can do anything." to alert them. The truck still did not slow down, and it was heading toward base. There were signs on the From Page 30 Sometimes the rules conflict according to Duenas. It happens when they have to draw the line when pro­ Humvee in Arabic that read 'Keep back 100 feet or le­ Duenas and his team's staff sergeant instructed tecting themselves or when the Marines become "the thal action will be taken.' them to break formation and pursue the man on the boat. enemy." The semi is now within the danger zone, and that They followed the order and the man took off. The group required lethal action. The sergeant made a judgment called in air support to intercept him on the other side call. He ordered the convoy to get into straight-line for­ of the lake. They never found out what happened to the II / would say our uniform, would bematio n and open fire to the vehicle's engine. Duenas man. He got away. For Duenas, this was a day he would and his team followed orders. never forget. compared to what you see in 'Call of Duty.' "My heart was racing," he said. "I had an adrena­ "It was a turning point in my life, I almost died," line rush because we've waved down vehicles before, Duenas said. The heat just slaps you in the face " Duenas but I never thought it would get to that point where we They waited for Explosive Ordinance Disposal actually have to open fire." (EOD). They waited an hour, then received a call in­ said. "Ifs Wee turning the oven to 500 for 15 Three weeks later, after an investigation was con­ forming them that the EOD team had been hit by a bomb to 20 minutes and sticking your whole headducted in , they concluded that the truck's brakes were not en route, and that a second team would be dispatched. working and that there was no intent, no guns, weapons A second team arrived four hours later, after nightfall, there. Thafs how hot it is over mere. or explosives. It was three generations of men: grandfa­ and they confirmed there was indeed a bomb, which they ther, dad, and a young boy. disarmed in 15 minutes. 55 "At the time I was pumped because I thought "We go over there knowing there's a chance you we killed the enemy," Duenas said. "We were all like won't come back," Duenas said. "But out there, that's the Once it happened, he says, he and the team did 'yeah! We killed some hajis'. Once we found out they real world. It makes you appreciate life more." exactly what they were trained to do. Duenas and his were innocent I felt like shit; I felt guilty, horrible, and Duenas has strong feelings about the war—things team were in their Humvee in a convoy made up of thought there was something we could've done to pre­ he did not agree with and things that could have possibly four Humvee's and a tank. They were on their way to vent it. I have nightmares about it still." been prevented. pick up supplies. As they made their way, they noticed a Not many people can say they have visited 10 "I thought it [war] was going to be like 'Black Hawk semi-truck charging at them at 50 miles per hour. or more countries, fired a weapon, have been shot at, Down,'" he said. "Everything they show on CNN is sug­ They followed the rules Duenas says and proceed­ blown up and received an Army Achievement Medal, ar-coated. People shouldn't know what goes on over there. ed cautiously. They waved two bright orange flags that all at the age of 21. As for Cris Duenas, he can. They wouldn't be able to handle it. At times it wasn't the could be seen from hundreds of feet away. The truck "That's the job of being a Marine," Duenas said. enemy ldlling us but our rules became the enemy." did not slow down: so they moved on to the next step, "If I could, I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat." The Collegian Vincit omnia Veritas Get Your Associates Degree and go to Law School.

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Collegian Times 43 TECHSPLOSION Students are often stuck in the no-man's land of technology, having to balance their knowledge ofthe best toys in the market and painful truth of high-priced textbooks and food stamps. But, here are our choices for the best tech and accessories that scream "Screw the rules, I have some money and I am willing to spend a sensible amount for something awesome..." By Tercius Bufete

Tamrac's Travel Pack 73 and ZipShot Tripod For the camera enthusiast, Tamrac's Travel Pack 73 is an absolute must to keep your flashes and glass accessible and free of dust and moisture. Keep your memory cards organized and whatever else you need for this summer's big excursion. This bag is epic win. $80 (www.tamrac.com)

Tamrac's ZipShot Tripod is a must have for any student with a camera in his or her pocket. Perfect for those impromptu shots that just needs extra stability. This tripod is so light and so small that it can even fit in a purse. And when the time comes, just release the two red wires and watch the it pop into action. $50 (www.tamrac.com)

SNAG THIS! Acme Made Products For any fan of well-designed products, the gang at Acme Made just made all of your collective minds explode. Browse their website and marvel at the classiest, most modern bags and sleeves this side of the prime meridian. Our team loves Belkin Conserve Valet The Lombardi Sleeve for the ladies and The Hardback Folio. Save the planet and charge up to four devices at $40 - $65 once? Yes please! Belkin's Conserve Valet does (www.acmemade.com) just that, charging up to four devices using a USB connection and reducing wire clutter. The station automatically powers off after all of your devices are fully charged. $40 (www.belkin.com) Follow @CollegianWired for your SNAG THIS! chance to win. Lensbaby Flexible Lens Mounting System "Dude that is so freakin' cool!" The LensBaby line of quirky, put, photography just got fun again. From the Fisheye to the awesome lenses and optics can't help but grab attention. This artsy Pinhole optic, this system is a joy to create with. $100 - system so captured the imaginations of our photographers that $300 it was hard for them to return them in a timely manner. Simply (www.lensbaby.com)

Corel VideoStudio Pro X4 Video editing made simple in full High-Definition. Take your YouTube videos to a whole new level using this software's built ^ ) in templates and studio-quality am effects. Take your presentations to a whole new level, wowing your students and tricking your ikan iLED ONE professors into thinking that you ikan's iLED ONE pushes HDSLR filmmaking to a whole new VideoStudio X4 I spent a lot more time on your level. With many of the DSLRs being released with HD video, project than you already did. this product is the ultimate complement. Never fear low lighting $100 situations with this one. $100 (www.ikancorp.com) (www.corel.com)

SNAG THIS! AlienSkin Software AlienSkin's line of photo edit­ mtt£->^ ssSfcTv."^ l^erS^Candy ing and graphic design software is great for anyone who wants a perfect blend simplicity and ver­ satility. My favorite of the line is Eye Candy 6 and Exposure 3, the latter of which gives the user dozens of color and black and white film styles to process their Pentax Optio RS1500 images. $100 - $250 (www. alienskin. com) Simple. Reliable. Lightweight. You cannot want any more from this tiny wonder. Boasting 14 megapixels and 720p HD video, the Pentax Optio RS1500 is an extremely versatile little camera. Not to mention you can customize its face with inter­ changeable skins. $150 (www.pentaximaging.com) a » - • * k

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PHOTO FOCUS Clockwise from left to right: Sasha L. is a member of the provocative burlesque dance troupe Rocka Chic. She performs in front of the crowd at Exchange L.A. Leah plays violin to the fast-paced electro dance beat. A burlesque dancer works a fan of peacock feath­ ers and sports signature fishnet stockings as she performs for the crowd. Cindy Lee feels the beat and jumps on stage to dance.

DJ Storm, a team made up of Zan Rox and Sinjun play electro club music. DJ Matuss listens intently to the beat on her head­ |'Vj— phones while mixing the hottest tunes. A scantily-clad dancer moves to the beat in front of the dance floor at Exchange LA. Club-goers place dollar bills inside her garter belt. A parasol and lace gloves accent the minimal cos­ tume of Jessica B., a member of Rocka Chic.

Photos by Ethan Edwards RESTAURANT

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