April 4, 2012

El Va uero l e n d a l eCC o m m u n i t yCC ollege GG lendale ommunity ollege

www.elvaq.com

csu freezes enrollment.. . . . . . . journalism wins awards at competition . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

8-9

‘hunger games’

satisfies audiences. . . . . . . . . . . .

11

vaqs devour cougars.. . . . . . . . .

14

Volume 99, Number 3

April 4, 2012

School Employees Take Pay Cut to Balance Budget

By John Ferrara

EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR

M

anagement, faculty members and classified employees have agreed to make multiple sacrifices, through salary cuts and reserve contributions, in an attempt to balance Glendale College’s budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.

“We took the concept of each group doing their share…. I think people understand that we’re in some really unique times. Everyone wants to be equitable in the process,” said Ron Nakasone, executive president of administrative services.

The Glendale College Guild, which represents the school faculty, agreed to a 3.95 percent pay cut and to contribute $102,789 of its combined $211,451 Blue Shield rebates from 2009 and 2010 toward the budget. The remaining $108,662 was contributed to the part-time faculty insurance pool.

Blue Shield of California, a private insurance company, is used by Glendale [See Pay Cut, page 2]

EL VAQUERO ONLINE

Photo by Edgar Sanchez

MOVING ON: Glendale College President Dawn Lindsay announced plans Tuesday to take a new position as the sixth president at Anne Arundel Community College in Maryland. Lindsey will complete the current semester here at Glendale.

College President Announces Resignation

By Jessica Bourse

EL VAQUERO EDITOR IN CHIEF

G IN THIS ISSUE News.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10 Opinion.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Center Spread.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Entertainment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12 Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-14 Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

lendale College President Dawn Lindsay announced her resignation on Tuesday and has accepted a new position in Maryland.

“I have accepted the position at Anne Arundel Community College,” said Lindsay, in a letter to the campus. “In the interim, I will be working with the Board [of Trustees] to determine a transition plan.”

The announcement came shortly after Lindsay had made a public statement to the campus on Thursday that she was a finalist for the position.

Lindsay also said she had strong family ties to the east coast.

“I need to share this is not about leaving Glendale, as I

enjoy the college and everyone I work with,” said Lindsay.

“This decision is clearly personal as I realize I am at a stage of my life where I need to reflect on the decisions that are in the best interest of my family.”

“We’re going to miss her terribly, but we’re glad that she’s happy with her new environment and going back east,” said Mary Mirch, vice president of instructional services.

“That was one of the things she had indicated was a priority for her.”

Anita Gabrielian, board of trustees president, released a statement on Tuesday, wishing Lindsay well for her efforts and time in the college, as well as the board’s plan to find a replacement, which will be discussed at the next scheduled

meeting on April 16.

“At the next board meeting, we’ll have to come up with a plan for a transition to a new superintendent/president,” said Ron Nakasone, vice president of administrative services.

Nakasone said that the board will have to discuss whether or not the college will hire an interim president, and where to look for candidates.

“There are a lot of issues that we’re going to discuss with the board,” said Nakasone. “A lot of things are up in the air right now.”

Lindsay was appointed interim president on May 19, 2009, after former president Audre Levy resigned.

Vahe Peroomian, then-president of the board, said that Lindsay was the best choice

because of her ability to unite the campus.

“We have a lot of confidence in [Lindsay],” said Peroomian.

Lindsay was appointed president one year later and has served as the college’s superintendent for two years.

Lindsay will begin her new position on Aug. 1, becoming the college’s sixth president in its 50-year history.

Lindsay will be replacing Martha Smith, who is retiring after serving for 18 years.

Meanwhile, Glendale remains optimistic about finding a suitable replacement.

“We will continue to be the excellent institution we’ve always been,” said Mirch.

Jessica Bourse can be reached at JBourse001@student.glendale.edu

2

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

LETTERS

El Vaquero EDITOR IN CHIEF Jessica Bourse COPY EDITOR Agnes Constante SPORTS EDITOR John Ferrara STAFF WRITERS

Eric Bourse Jonathan Caballeros Alex Gonzalez Marlon Miranda Evan Ramirez Isiah Reyes Angel Silva Kristine Tuzon Tex Wells

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Roger Lai Seneyda Rodriguez

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jane Pojawa

NEWSROOM MANAGER

Richard Kontas

DESIGN ADVISER Charles Eastman FACULTY ADVISER

Michael Moreau

mmoreau@glendale.edu (818) 551-5214 ADVERTISING Jeff Smith jsmith@glendale.edu (818) 240-1000, ext.5493 Send Letters to the Editor El Vaquero accepts story ideas in news, features, profiles, sports and entertainment from the public. To submit an idea or an article, e-mail the editor at elvaquero.editor@gmail.com or call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5349.

Member of the Journalism Asssociation of Community Colleges

Letters may be reproduced in full or in part and represent only the point of view of the writer, not the opinion of El Vaquero or Glendale Community College and its district. Letters must be signed and typed and include the full name and address of the writer.

El Vaquero is a First Amendment publication.

EL VAQUERO

1500 N. Verdugo Road Glendale, CA 91208 (818) 240-1000 ext. 5349

elvaquero.editor@gmail.com First copy free Additional copies $.25

School Employees Take Pay Cuts [Pay Cut, from page 1] College as a health care plan for the school employees. At the end of most years excess money is returned by Blue Shield to the college as a rebate.

“If you add the reduction in summer and winter offerings, plus the 40 percent reduction in pro-rata pay for last summer, many faculty took a real salary cut of approximately 15 percent,” said Richard Kamei, sociology department chair and guild vice president. “I am proud to be a part of a union that sees beyond simple self-interest to provide some assistance to those in the most precarious situations.”

The management group, which consists of administrators, classified managers, and confidential employees, contributed $153,000 toward the 2011-2012 budget.

The proposal reduced the managment group’s salary by 4.5 percent throughout the 20112012 fiscal year.

Other contributions include the 2009-2012 unused funds from two furlough days and remaining funds from their 2009 and 2010 Blue Shield rebates.

Classified employees, who account for almost all nonteaching and managerial staff, have made multiple sacrifices to account for their share of balancing the budget.

The classified employees’ union, the California School Employees Association, has agreed to take a 2 percent pay cut and has contributed the remaining share of its 2009 Blue Shield rebate of $107,148 toward the budget.

“In the end, dollar wise we may have given more than our share, but we were trying not to have a large pay cut,” said Hoover Zariani, president of the classified staff union and director of the center for student involvement.

Classified employees also agreed to give $172,000 in reallocation funds, which are used for sample surveys, to ensure employees are paid at the appropriate level in comparison with other community college employees. Each budget year $50,000 is given to the classified staff, however funds had been collecting from previous years due to employees receiving appropriate pay levels.

The remaining share of the

union’s $31,157 contribution credit from 2009-2010 and savings from two furlough days taken in 2010-2011 which added up to $126,378 will also aid the budget deficit.

Four additional classified employee furlough days were taken on Dec. 16, 19, 20, and 21 in 2011, which generated a school savings of $251,528.

“Furlough days came in handy, because they paid us over the Christmas break, now you just have to pay it back, it’s just like a loan … except there is no interest,” said Jeffrey Hechter, lead cafeteria cook and four-year employee.

“During Christmas that’s our paid vacation … we had extra days of vacation, but it wasn’t really vacation because we didn’t get paid for it,” said Zariani.

When California community colleges suffered an unexpected $149 million cut in February, Glendale College resorted to laying off 33 student employees.

Because the budget cuts were

made in the midst of the Spring semester, classes were unable to be cut and student workers suffered the impact. However student workers who were eligible, were moved to federal work study, and were able to keep their jobs.

“Every dollar that we save today, is a dollar that we’re going to have tomorrow, and tomorrow is when we think we’re really going to be at risk,” said Nakasone.

Gov. Jerry Brown and the California Federation of Teachers have agreed on a tax initiative that will raise as much as $6.9 billion per year, from the wealthiest 1 percent. Forty percent of this tax has been promised to be divided equally among community colleges. About $9 million would come to this college.

The initiative could be on the November ballot, and will likely only have to beat out civil rights attorney Molly Munger’s initiative, which focuses primarily on K-12 education.

“It is imperative that we get the

tax initiative on the ballot ... and then vote to pass it,” said Kamei.

Ground work is also being done by assemblyman Warren Furutani, for a bill that would call for automatic backfill in community college budget shortfalls in property taxes and enrollment fees.

Every year if there are shortfalls in the community college system’s budget, the colleges must suffer cuts.

However an automatic backfill would force the state to find money to cover the shortfalls and spare cuts at the community college level.

“We’ve all been planning to get [the expected] level of budget, and it’s really hard to have to make these kind of cuts midyear,” said Nakasone.

All budget agreements made

by Glendale College are unofficial until approved by the board of trustees.

John Ferrara can be reached at jferrar977@student.glendale.edu

Photo by Tex Wells

WOMAN OF THE YEAR:

Glendale Community College Board of Trustees Vice President Armine Hacopian was named one of the five Women of the Year in the California 21st Senate District and was feted March 23 by California State Sen. Carol Liu for her contributions to the betterment of residents of the district. The presentation was made in Liu’s residence in La Canada Flintridge.

Hacopian spoke of the difficulties she encountered early on in the United States as a result of her inability to speak English. Today, she holds a doctorate degree in Educational Administration and Organizational Management and two masters of arts degrees. She has served as the president of the GCC Board of Trustees twice.

Corrections: Budget Cuts and Attributions The story in the March 14 edition of El Vaquero headlined “Renner’s Dedication to Women’s History Empowers Students,” paragraph 14, which begins with “Peggy is a socially conscious, compassionate...” should have been attributed to Richard Kamei.

A story in the March 14 edition of El Vaquero headlined “33 Students Lose Jobs to Budget Cuts” left the impression that administrators at the college had not made sacrifices in light of the budget crisis. This was inaccurate. Please see related story on page 1 of today’s issue.

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

3

NEWS

Enrollment Freeze Hits Transfer Students

By Angel Silva

EL VAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

I

n response to difficult economic hurdles, the California State University (CSU) system will not accept transfer students for the 2013 spring semester at most of its campuses and will wait list all incoming fall students until Nov. 6, when the results of a potential tax measure are known.

“CSU plans to cut enrollment for 2013 - 2014 by 20,000 to 25,000 students, first by closing most of its campuses for spring admissions,” the CSU Public Affairs website stated.

A substantial amount of students transfer to the CSU system after finishing their prerequisites on campus, said GCC Transfer Center counselor Kevin Meza.

“We typically transfer about 700 to 800 students per year to the Cal State system, but in budget cut years it could go down as low as 500,” said Meza.

In the 2007-08 academic year, 806 students transferred to a CSU from GCC. The 2008-09 year saw 728 transfers, and in 2009-10 there was a further decrease in transfers, with only 512 students transferring to a CSU from GCC that year. “[Transfer rates] have dropped throughout the past couple of years, and not just at Glendale,” said Meza. “Less students are transferring to the Cal State [throughout] the state of California and it’s a direct result of the budget cuts.”

Transfer rates for the 2010 2011 year rose back to normal levels, with 755 students enrolling at a CSU. Only eight out of the 23 CSU’s will allow transfers from community colleges — Chico, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Fullerton, Channel Islands, East Bay, Sonoma, and San Francisco — and only if applied through SB 1440, or the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act, which guarantees a community college student access to the CSU system after completing an associate’s degree.

“It’s a policy that if you complete certain courses, the Cal States will give you priority admission. It’s supposed to ease the transfer process but there’s a lot of problem with the degree,” said Meza.

According to Meza, the program doesn’t guarantee admission to a particular CSU, nor does

it necessarily guarantee admission into a major of the applicant’s choice. Applicants may be given a similar major instead.

“We’re hoping that the state will make some adjustments to it to make it a more userfriendly approach,” said Meza.

“Out of the whole state, [the CSU system is] only expecting maybe a hundred or two to be able to do it that spring.”

Just because a student isn’t transferring doesn’t mean that they can lie back and relax, said Meza, who recommends finding ways to maximize the time during that semester.

“Students who are planning to transfer in Spring [should] take more requirements if they haven’t met all of them,” said Meza. “You can also use that time to seek employment or maybe an internship in your field. Taking up to 70 units still helps you for the Cal State so you have less courses to take once you get there.”

“Outside of that, the traditional transfer process is the same – you obviously do the best you can to pass your courses in a timely manner, make sure you have all the minimum requirements, and get the best grades possible,” said Meza. “All of that stuff hasn’t changed, what has changed is that timelines are more crucial than ever before and information [is more important].”

Fall 2013 enrollment will depend on whether the governor’s tax increase is passed on Nov. 6 by voters. Should the proposal fail, the CSU system would be forced to cut $200 million from funding, a move that would further harm a system dealing with $750 million in cuts made during the 2011 - 2012 year.

If the governor’s tax proposal doesn’t pass, the CSU would freeze transfers for fall 2013 as well, according to media contact Claudia Keith.

“That would be the potential plan of action,” Keith said. “[Enrollment] would have to be frozen

as well, not accepting additional transfer students. That is contingent on the tax initiative.

The CSU’s decision to restrict entry for the spring semester was a necessary step, although an unfortunate one, said Meza.

“The Cal States don’t have enough money to provide an education to these students.

They call it enrollment management – they have —Kevin Meza to reduce stuTransfer Center dent access, so they put certain steps in the way of students to get to their goal, certain barriers if you will,” said Meza.

“Less students

are transferring to

Cal State

the [throughout] the state of California and it’s a direct result of the

budget cuts.”

Admission freezes are nothing new, according to adjunct English professor Lianna Manukyan, who is an adjunct at GCC and at Cal State LA. “From what I have heard, there were a few quarters that they blocked transfers altogether [at Cal State LA],” said Manukyan. “Summer sessions have been closed off for a couple of quarters — there were no classes during summer this semester.”

The decision to cut classes affects instructors just as much as students, said Manukyan.

“The instructors are there, but there isn’t enough money to pay them, so instructors are being laid off and the students are being barred from coming in,” said Manukyan. “For spring at Cal State LA, I wasn’t given classes. They told me, ‘we don’t have a budget, you can’t teach here.’”

Kinesiology major Jairo Bautista, 22, is relieved to be able to transfer to Cal State LA this fall before the freeze occurs.

“I’m just glad I’m doing this

now,” said Bautista. “It’s going to get harder to get in, and not only that but it’s more expensive than it was four years ago.”

Meza remains optimistic about the situation with the CSU system.

“All these changes are pending – even though they’ve announced that they’re not opening for spring I would say that there’s a slight chance that they’ll take students,” said Meza. “That’s why students need to keep checking, because sometimes budgets are better than what schools think.”

However, Manukyan remained doubtful.

“I think more things are trying to be done to make it better, but I don’t see it actually happening it yet,” said Manukyan. “We seem to be going deeper and deeper into the pit instead of coming out of it.”

Angel Silva can be reached at asilva827@student.glendale.edu

4

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

NEWS

Different Options for Priority Registration

By Jonathan Caballeros EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

P

riority registration is awarded to those who give priority to education, and that doesn’t just include seniority and a high GPA. There are many factors involved in calculating a student’s registration date, such as having an active role on campus, which can be the difference between getting a first or second week registration date.

Andranik Dertsakyn, a 2nd semester ASGCC member, enjoys his priority position by being a member of student government.

“It feels like a perk for being in government,” said Dertsakyn, “Being part of student government is a lot of work though, and you got to be able to handle it.”

A high GPA and seniority in school will help students get an earlier registration date, but there are more factors involved in the equation.

According to Michelle Mora, director of Admissions and Records, the student body is divided

into 14 groups, each of which has its own rank and registration date.

Students may belong to more than one of these groups, but they are represented by the higher rank of their qualifying student groups.

Four of these 14 groups are mandated to receive priority registration. The athletic student group is one of the four state-mandated groups to enjoy priority registration.

“The athletes have to be mandated for priority registration,” said John Aque, counselor for student athletes. “They only have two years to complete or transfer, or else they don’t qualify for scholarships.”

The other student groups mandated by the state are the disabled, veterans and foster youth groups.

The lowest among the rankings are newly enrolled students.

New students can receive priority registration by taking a student development class and signing up for the online orientation.

New students can achieve early registration dates if they are in the four mandated student groups,

join the Scholars’ Program, are international students or join the Associated Student Board (ASB.) “People get a better seat on priority registration by how many units they take and their GPA,” said Britteney Guinhawa, 19, a sophomore majoring in nursing, “However, if you’re in the Scholars’ Program, you can get better seat.”

“The scholars program has classes that are exclusive to them during priority registration,” said Mora, “this gives an advantage to continuing and new students.”

To be able to apply for the Scholars’ Program, new students and continuing students must have a 3.5 GPA or better and must be approved by the student board.

There is still hope for students who do not fit into the four mandated groups or have a high GPA. “Seeing your counselor is one of the easiest ways to bump up your standing,” said Mora, “[The counselors] are always here to help students.”

Students can also become more active and achieve a good

standing in school if they join clubs such as VOICES, the Environmental Club, Kiwanis, Circle K and the Marketing Association, to name a few.

Clubs not only help students by giving them better priority registration date, but can also help students who wish to transfer by having extracurricular activities in their transcripts.

Priority registration dates can be the difference between having the classes and having to become a “less-than-full time” student.

One idea to remember is that students cannot have priority registration without making education and school a priority.

“Get involved. That’s the bottom line,” said Mora.

Students can go to AD 139, left of the admissions window, to learn more about priority registration and student group rankings.

If a student wishes to apply to the Scholars’ Program, they can visit the GCC website, click on the Programs & Degrees tab and then click on the Scholars’ Program link.

Academic counselors can be seen in the second floor of the San Rafael building in the Student Services section.

Students can make appointments Mondays to Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Jonathan Caballeros can be reached at jcaball942@student.glendale.edu

Town Hall Meeting Clarifies Summer Session, Budget

By Isiah Reyes

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

G

lendale College’s student town hall meeting on Thursday answered questions about the upcoming summer session as well as the status of the budget crisis on campus.

“We’re stuck between a rock and a hard spot,” Suzanne Sargysyan, ASGCC president and student trustee said. “There isn’t much we can cut that doesn’t affect the students.”

Sargysyan did confirm that summer session will be held despite the reduction of funding to community colleges in California. The price of tuition will rise from $36 to $46 for the summer session. The price will continue to increase for the following semesters.

At least 120 classes have been assured.

Glendale College currently faces $8 million in deficits. A statewide $9 billion deficit affects all 112 community colleges in California.

Due to the cuts, class enrollment is more competitive between students and there has been a 5.6 percent reduction in class numbers for spring and fall

semesters. Student workers have also been reduced to deal with the budget.

The town hall meeting focused on Gov. Brown’s tax initiative, known as “The Schools and Local Public Safety Protection Act.” If passed, the initiative would generate $6.9 billion for the state. The initiative would increase sales tax by one-fourth cent for four years.

The initiative would also increase income tax by 1 percent for those who make more than $500,000, by 2 percent for those who make more than $600,000, and by 3 percent for those who make more than $1 million for seven years.

In addition, it will bring in $300 million to be divided among all the community colleges.

The Associated Students are rallying support for this particular initiative to pass.

Aside from budget talks, Lucy Agazaryan, vice president of administration for ASGCC, spoke about the new requirement for transfer students that will be needed to be accepted by CSUs. “You would not be able to transfer to CSU without the trans[See Town Hall, page 5]

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

5

NEWS

Equivalency Test Offered ‘Cape Cod Noir’ Hosted by

By Kristine Tuzon

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

T

he recent budget cuts to community colleges can make completing educational goals more difficult for students.

For some, signing up and paying for mandatory classes is not only nearly impossible, but a waste of time, especially if they are already knowledgeable in that area.

The California Level Examination Program, or CLEP, makes obtaining college credit for certain classes as simple as taking a 90-minute assessment exam.

Glendale offers these exams in various subjects, such as history, social sciences, mathematics, science, composition and literature, as well as business.

Students who are confident with their knowledge in these subjects can take the test, and if they pass with a satisfactory score, they are given credit for the class without having to complete the course.

“It’s a good way if you have that knowledge base to move forward,” said outreach and assessment manager Alen Andriassian.

Students believe CLEP testing offers both good and bad reasons for their education.

Mass communications major Albert Galdamez, 23, sees the downsides CLEP has to offer, and said that the exams lower the quality of the overall education.

“While CLEP might be a quick way to gain credit for classes, an assessment test lacks the qualities a class offers. A class offers support from instructors and a way for students to expand their network of people,” he said.

Student assessment lab assistant Nikkie Adamonis said the test has a fee of $105 per test students have to pay for.

Galdamez said, “One of the considerations a student will take into account is the matter of fees.

If the exam has a fee, students are less likely to take a CLEP test due to the mandatory contribution, particularly since money is difficult to come by during these times.”

However, psychology and social behavior student Connor McGuire, 22, said he doesn’t see anything wrong with CLEP being offered.

“If a student can fully demonstrate that he or she understands the information necessary to be considered sufficiently knowledgeable in a subject, then why not give them

credit?” McGuire said.

“By denying credit to the students, all the administration would do is force knowledgeable students to take a class, wasting a valuable class seat which could have been filled by another far more deserving student.” he said.

There are requirements for testing.

Only GCC students who have completed 12 units or more may take the test. Students who decide to take it must fill out a petition and must be approved by counseling and admissions.

Glendale CLEP testing results may not always be accounted for in other universities.

Students may need to check with other institutions that qualify for the exam’s transferable units.

If students would like more information on CLEP, they can visit the assessment center in SF 112 or call (818) 240-1000 ext.

5329.

Additional information can be found on the CLEP website: http://www.clep.collegeboard. org.

Kristine Tuzon can be reached at ktuzon342@student.glendale.edu

Book Critic David Ulin

By Isiah Reyes

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

L

.A. Times book critic David Ulin read passages from “Cape Cod Noir,” a collection of stories that blur the line between memory and imagination while exploring the deep and inner workings of the human mind.

The presentation was held Wednesday in Kreider Hall as part of the Los Angeles Writers Series. The anthology contains 13 dark and sinister stories. Ulin is the editor for this particular anthology.

He said he chose Cape Cod because it goes against the stereotype that noir stories take place in cities and are built around crime.

“I’m always interested in the moment when writers and readers take what we expect and blow it up,” said Ulin.

He added that Cape Cod is the opposite of edgy because it’s mostly a vacation spot and that noir is mostly about desperation and daily life, which can take place anywhere.

Though not always the case, noir fiction is a style of writing that usually features a hardboiled detective investigating crime scenes. It emerged in films from the 1940s and 1950s after the Great Depression, where dramatic lighting and voice over narration became trademarks of the style.

Ulin’s story in the anthology is “La Jetée,” a name he borrowed from a 1962 French science fiction film by Chris Marker. Ulin said that the significant amount of downsizing in the L.A. Times staff was the inspiration behind

his story. He wanted to write about someone losing a job and what that might generate.

As the protagonist in his story is fired from his job and he clears his desk, the story reads: “Standing on a jetty, watching the sky grow pale and silver pink at sunset, he drifted back to that moment, emptying his drawers into the trash can, realizing that nothing he gathered in the last 5 years, nothing he accumulated, meant anything at all.”

Another story in the anthology is “Nineteen Snapshots of Dennisport” by Paul Tremblay.

Ulin said the story is about a man who looks back on 19 snapshots he took on a vacation, and by looking at the photos he begins to unravel a family mystery. Another story takes place in the 18th Century and is considered to be “Colonial noir.”

The stories all take place in a different part of Cape Cod. The book is part of the Akashic Books Noir Series, which began in 2004.

Each book is set in a unique location within the city chosen for the book.

Midway through the reading, Ulin began to answer questions from the audience. He was asked how he frames his stories.

“I plan out as little as I can possibly get away with because I hate planning things out,” said Ulin. He admitted that he “sucks” at writing dialogue and is more interested in the line between memory and imagination and what goes inside a person’s head.

On the topic of the digital revolution and how that affects [See Cape Cod, page 11

Town Hall Meeting [Town Hall , from page 4] -fer AA, and the UC’s are in negotiations to do it as well,” said Agazaryan.

The transfer AA is the certification that would replace the IGETC requirements. Students will have to take a few more classes to receive it. Currently, there are only transfer AA’s for speech, math, kinesiology and sociology.

Campus organization vice president Juliana Kim said that the college is working on a campus beautification process, which includes walking around collecting trash and taking pictures of classrooms that need to be repaired. The project’s budget is $30,000.

The next townhall meeting will be on May 3.

Isiah Reyes can be reached at ireyes184@student.glendale.edu

6

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

FEATURES

Robiglio Awarded Fullbright Scholarship

By Angel Silva

EL VAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

G

arfield Campus ESL professor Deborah Robiglio has been selected as a Fulbright Scholar and will travel to Chile in Spring 2013 under the program, both as an instructor and researcher at a national university.

“I’m still in shock that I actually got it,” said Robiglio. “But I’m really excited.”

Robiglio will be leaving to Santiago, Chile and working at the Metropolitan University of Educational Sciences, or Universidad Metropolitana de Ciencias de la Educación, a national university that focuses on the science of education.

“This particular place is an outgrowth of [my research] in that it focuses on pedagogy and teaching,” said Robiglio.

Robiglio will conduct research and hold a teaching position at the campus.

“I’m going to do an action research project with colleagues in Chile,” said Robiglio.

Action research is a system of

learning that focuses on how to cate their students and to evaluate improve problem-solving strate- their progress. gies in a structured setting — or “These are tools that will last in Robiglio’s [instructors] a case, how inlifetime,” said structors adRobiglio. dress educaOne of the reational issues in sons Robiglio’s the classroom research will take and how their place in Chile is approaches because of the the can be furcountry’s push ther improved to develop a biupon. lingual populace Action rethrough programs search is difsuch as the Engferent from lish Opens Doors other kinds of (Inglés Abre research, bePuertas) program. cause the in“Chile has this structor isn’t national manPhoto by Angel Silva date that when separate from the subject that’s being studied, every Chilean student graduates, said Robiglio. they must know how to read and “You don’t just end up study- listen in ing your subjects,” said Robiglio, English,” said Robiglio. “you do research in a way that inHer expertise in action revolves everyone.” search and in bilingual strategies Robiglio will teach cours- will help the Chilean government es such as self-reflection and with that goal. management skills, aimed at “It’s a wonderful thing to see helping educators to better edu- this because not many countries

require their students to learn a foreign language,” said Robiglio.

“They’re the first to take education [to that level].”

The results of her research will be published sometime during the 2013 fall semester.

In order to apply for the Fulbright Scholars program, Robiglio had to write and submit a proposal on her research, receive letters of recommendation and letters of invitation from universities in Chile.

“It was a very involved and tedious process,” said Robiglio.

GCC Board of Trustees member Vahé Peroomian expressed pride in Robiglio for her outstanding achievement.

“I wanted to publicly congratulate Deborah Robiglio for becoming a Fulbright Scholar,” said Peroomian at the March 19 board meeting. “We’re very proud of the college for having such instructors.”

On average, about 800 applicants from across the U.S. are awarded the title of Fulbright Scholar, according to the Fulbright Scholar Program website.

“The best part of it is that I’m a community college professor,” said Robiglio. “It’s just a wonderful validation to the campus.”

Angel Silva can be reached at asilva827@student.glendale.edu

Opinion

Podcasting Is the Ultimate Radio Trend

By Evan Ramirez

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

W

ith talk radio stations like KLSX 97.1 being ripped off the air, or completely changing their format to something like top 40, the outlet for stellar programming on the radio is becoming less available. However, as an alternative, within the past couple of years the abundance of excellent podcasts has become almost overwhelming. With podcasts, people who aren’t interested in talk radio are given an alternative to present themselves with a wide variety of genres.

The previously mentioned KSLX, which has since been changed to AMP Radio, included beloved shows that were on five days a week. In the morning listeners could wake up and listen to the inane and entertaining rants of Adam Carolla, then around noon Frosty, Heidi and Frank kept the laughs coming. And arguably the funniest of them all, Conway and Whitman closed out the day.

In February 2009, a few days after the station switched formats, Carolla launched his daily podcast which is still often seen at the top of the iTunes charts.

Sports talk radio still has some fine programming, but to find any good entertainment/pop culture or alternative talk shows the best option is to find a podcast.

Podcasts are readily available

in various places. There is the iTunes store where listeners can subscribe to a podcast and have the new one downloaded every time it becomes available, rather than having to search for it again.

Many podcasts also have websites that allow people to listen to it in their web browsers, rather than having to download it then.

With the right equipment anyone can make a podcast.

When talking about podcasts there’s no way to ignore Kevin Smith. The director of films like “Clerks” (1994) and “Chasing Amy” (1997) has created an empire of podcasts under the banner SModcast. Many of his shows are performed live and he has expanded his network to include a live show, which runs from 9 to 11 a.m. weekdays If a person is looking for something on the nerdy side, Chris Hardwick hosts the “Nerdist” podcast. Hardwick and his co-hosts Matt Mira and Jonah Ray provide listeners with a new podcast every couple of days.

Guests include a wide variety of entertainers, from the 10th Doctor himself, David Tennant (“Doctor Who”) to the band Wilco.

Not only does Hardwick host his own show, but he often takes it out on the road when he performs stand-up. Much like Smith, he has recently created Nerdist [See Podcast, page 7]

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

7

FEATURES

Grammy Nominee Chairs Visual and Performing Arts Division

By Tatevik Manucharyan EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

H

e is a musician, a piano teacher, a choir director, and an organist. He is a Grammy nominee and the winner of a national piano competition. His favorite composers are Chopin and Rachmaninoff. His favorite pastime: dirt biking.

“He’s very positive, he’s fun, he’s enthusiastic about what he’s doing. He’s a great colleague. I feel like I’m coming to work to be with a friend rather than just somebody who’s in the office next door. He’s a good friend.”

This is how one of his colleagues, Beth Pflueger, describes Peter Green.

Formerly the music department chair, Green, 44, has chaired the entire Visual and Performing Arts Division of Glendale Community College as of September 2011.

The division is composed of the departments of animation, art history, ceramics, dance, graphic design, media arts, music, photography, studio arts and theater arts.

In addition to heading 10 different departments, he teaches advanced piano and directs the Concert Singers Choir at GCC. He has also been the choir director of the Monrovia Presbyterian Church for the past 17 years and the organist of the church since January of this year.

Leo Thomasian, 20, a music

student, who has had piano lessons with Green for the past three years, had the following to say about him: “He’s a great teacher.

I love his personality. He’s really easy-going.… I feel like he’s like

your friend. It’s just like a student teaching a student.”

Another music student, Emin Baghoomian, 20, who has taken four classes with Green, said, “He’s awesome. Every time I play something wrong, he always calmly explains to me. He’s very patient and always smiles.”

Born and raised in a small,

quiet community on the island of Newfoundland, Canada, Green started playing the piano when he was 8.

“My aunt had a piano, and every time I’d go to her house, I loved to play. They weren’t using it, so they gave it to us, and my parents put me in piano lessons,” Green says.

“When you’re a kid, you don’t know if you’re any good at it. You just know if you like it,” tells the professor about his early years of playing the piano.

Yet, gifted as he was, for not only did he win numerous local piano competitions, but he also became a champion on the national level at age 19, winning the 1987 Canadian National Competition for Piano.

After completing his undergraduate education at Memorial University of Newfoundland, he moved to the United States at age 22 to pursue a master’s and subsequently, a doctorate degree in music at USC. Stewart Gordon, a piano teacher at USC, urged him to study there after hearing his performance during a piano competition in Canada.

“I really want you to come to the United States to study piano with me. I will give you a scholarship, I’ll come to the airport and pick you up, I’ll find an apartment for you,” were the words of Gordon, says Green.

“So he put the deposit down on the apartment for me, he drove me there and took me shopping because I didn’t have a car; I didn’t know anybody,” recalls the professor about his first days in Los Angeles.

When he’s not heading 10 departments, giving piano lessons, directing two different choirs, or playing the organ at the church, he likes to ride his motorcycle on the scenic trails behind his Lake Arrowhead cabin.

Twice a year, during his summer and winter vacations, he visits his parents and relatives in Newfoundland. Although the U.S. feels like home because he has lived here since 1990, Newfoundland is home, too, because of his loved ones who still live there, Green says.

In 2008, he recorded an album with two of his friends – Italian flutist Vieri Bottazzini, from Istanbul, Turkey, and French horn player Bruce Bonnell, from Mount Pleasant, Mich. The album, titled “Souvenirs,” was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2009.

Presently, Green is focused on maintaining the excellence of the Visual and Performing Arts Division programs despite

the budget cuts.

About 10 percent of the programs in all 10 departments have been cut so far, and it is likely that another 5 percent will be cut next fall.

“I feel like now, with all the cuts that we’ve had, we are pretty much bare bones. If we cut any more, it’s really going to negatively affect the programs,” Green says.

“Some classes are multiple, so once you cut those, it’s fine. But if you cut the only Piano 1 class or the only Keyboard Harmony class, then there’s no more. And it’s hard for students to graduate. If our classes get smaller and smaller, we’re going to be less attractive to students, and they’re going to go to other places.”

He expressed hopes for not only maintaining the programs, but also eventually able to promote growth in the Visual and Performing Arts Division.

A large pianoforte takes up most of the floor space in Green’s office. Music takes up just as much space in his life. It was a love that started in childhood, and lasted a lifetime.

Tatevik Manucharyan can be reached at tatmanu@gmail.com

elvaq.com

Opinion: Podcasting Offers Many Benefits [Podcast, from page 6] Industries, which has multiple podcasts, including the hilarious “Pop My Culture Podcast” with Cole Stratton and Vanessa Ragland.

There are many positives to come out of podcasts, but some that people will notice from the start is the ability to pick up a show whenever you want to. A person can pause or play at will.

While some have commercials, the flow that a show can have without them is very noticeable and a breath of fresh air.

Arguably the best things about some podcasts is that they are uncensored. There’s no watering

down of material, and oftentimes interviews end up being more candid.

Speaking of interviews, many tend to range from 40 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the podcast. This allows for many subjects to be touched upon and if a person is listening to someone that he or she is really interested in, it makes him or her more invested in the product than they were before.

Not only is there new and original content being released through podcasting, but radio stations like AM 570 Fox Sports LA offer their shows on their website the day after they air. While this might not necessarily be consid-

ered podcasting in its purest form, it offers audiences another way to listen.

Some television stations take advantage of this as well. G4 offers parts of their television programming and web only series, like “Feedback,” in podcast form.

A person’s entire interest in a podcast can be determined by the host itself. Someone like Marc Marcon of the podcast “WTF with Marc Maron” might rub people the wrong way, but others can easily identify with him.

Other hosts like Stratton and Ragland are incredibly welcoming and their rapport with each other allows the audience to just settle in and enjoy themselves.

Many podcasters ask their listeners for donations to keep offering their programs for free. Shows like “WTF” usually present ads at the start of every program. Some might even become running bits, as Maron usually starts the show with a sip of coffee from Just Coffee Coop, and then proceeds to yell, “Pow!” “WTF” also presents listeners with the opportunity to sign up for a premium membership. Prices vary depending on how long you want to sign up for but this allows listeners to access podcasts that are years old and aren’t available on iTunes anymore.

If a person wants to listen to a podcast in his or her car adapter

might need to be bought, but once it’s purchased, getting it to run is rather simple. Some podcasts like “WTF” even have apps that allow the show to be listened to in a much easier manner.

There’s definitely still room for radio out there, and to think that it will be overtaken by podcasts anytime soon is wishful thinking. However, podcasts offer a wide variety of genres to listen to that isn’t even close to being available on the radio. If you find a show and host that you like it can be like the beginning of a new friendship.

Evan Ramirez can be reached at eramire678@glendale.edu

8

Wednesday, April 4 , 2012

NE

Journalism Stud Win at State Conventi

By Kristine Tuzon

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

T

he El Vaquero staff represented GCC at the annual 57th Journalism Association of Community Colleges State Convention at the Burbank Marriott on March 22 to 24, bringing home four awards.

John Ferrara won second place for his on-thespot news story.

“I was very confident in my on-the-spot news competition.

When they called my name, I think everyone at the table, including myself, was in a bit of shock, but I recovered and proceeded to take the sweetest victory lap of my life.” Ferrara said.

“I’m glad my efforts were noticed. There were community colleges from all over California to compete, and to win second place at a journalism convention makes me very proud,” he said.

Staff members included editorin-chief Jessica Bourse, Eric Bourse, Agnes Constante, John Ferrara, Angel Silva, and Kristine Tuzon under the supervision of adviser Michael Moreau.

“We took a very strong team of writers with us,” Jessica Bourse said.

The staff competed against 45 community colleges around California, including Rio Hondo, Long Beach, Riverside, Los Angeles and Pasadena.

El Vaquero’s reporters participated in competitions in sports writing, critical review, feature writing, opinion writing, and news writing. All writers were put into on-the-spot conditions where students evaluated and

examined different features of each writing criteria. They would later write a fact-based story on what they all experienced.

The on-the-spot opinion writing competition showed a documentary called “Miss Representation” where reporters had to critique the film.

“It really opened my eyes on how the media treats women and how it affects not only women, but also society as a whole,” Eric Bourse said.

T h e competitions are designed to test journalism students and push their limits, sometimes leaving them out of their element.

“As journalists, we have to be prepared for anything,” Jessica Bourse said.

Students competing in sports writing were thrown off-guard when they were taken to a women’s lacrosse match, which left many writers out of their element.

El Vaquero’s sports editor Ferrara and Eric Bourse were firsttime participants.

“My on-the-spot sports competition was very difficult. It really tested my limits as a sports editor,” Ferrara said.

“I’ve never seen a full lacrosse match before, so it was fun watching and trying to figure out the rules,” Eric Bourse said.

In each competition, students were given a one-hour time limit to write and perfect each story.

“It was very stressful and very difficult to do.” Jessica Bourse said. “To cover an event, have less than 15 minutes to think about it and have only an hour to write it is really stressful.”

Copy editor Constante said the hour limit was a good experience.

“It was a real life experience as to what I’m going to be doing if I go out into the field of journalism,” she said.

Outside the competitive area, however, students attended workshops that suited their personal interests and help them in different aspects of journalism.

“The workshops were very interesting and useful for students who are very serious about going into the journalism industry,” Jessica Bourse said.

Workshops included broadcast journalism, design in photojournalism, podcasting, contemporary music journalism, and more.

“The workshop by Steve Gregory, reporter for KFI News, was very interesting and entertaining,” Eric Bourse said.

“He provided great insight on what it takes to be a radio reporter and he used humor and fascinating stories to entertain everyone.”

One of the staff’s favorite workshops was given by speaker James Meier on “25 Easy Investigations You Can Do on Your College Campus.”

“Desert Sun editor James Meier’s workshop on investigations for college students was really cool. It inspired me to start an investigation on campus of my own,” Silva said.

JACC’s keynote speakers were Pulitzer Prize reporters, Ruben Vives and Jeff Gottlieb of the Los Angeles Times. They shared their experiences about reporting and uncovering the salary scandal in the city of Bell in 2010.

Journalists asked these reporters different questions about the Bell

experience to making it in the journalism business.

“It was very inspiring to listen to these two reporters speak and see how reporting the facts can really make a difference in the world,” Jessica Bourse said.

An award dinner ceremony was held on Saturday to announce the winners for each competition.

Glendale received an honorable mention for front-page layout and Isiah Reyes received third place in mail-in news writing.

The Insider, the campus’ magazine, received an award for magazine general excellence.

Marlon Miranda and Roger Lai received first place for magazine photo story.

Ferrara and Jessica Bourse won fourth place for bring-in advertisement.

“I was pleasantly surprised I received an award for bring-in advertisement,” Jessica Bourse said. “It just shows the level of

talent that’s out there in other community colleges and that’s something we can be proud of.”

Many of the staff’s highlights were bonding with the staff outside the campus newsroom, interacting with other colleges, and also recognizing and appreciating their own work. “ J A C C was a learning experience.

It taught me I need to practice a lot more to achieve a level of writing that I’m happy with,” Silva said.

The staff acknowledged the effort they put into their work and proudly represented Glendale Community College.

Ferrara said, “The highlight for me was winning an award for our program, especially in a time where our budget is being slashed. I think it’s important to show that we’re really producing some quality work at El Vaquero.”

Kristine Tuzon can be reached at ktuzon342@student.glendale.edu

www.elvaq.com

9

WS

dents ion OUTSTANDING STUDENT WORK: The Spring 2011 issue of Insider magazine won Magazine General Excellence and Roger Lai and Marlon Miranda won first place for Magazine Photo Essay for their coverage of the Downtown L.A. Zombie Walk. In addition, El Vaquero won an honorable mention for front-page layout. Representing Glendale, from left, are Kristine Tuzon, Jessica Bourse, Angel Silva, John Ferrara, Eric Bourse and Agnes Constante.

Photo by Michael Moreau

Offer expires May 2, 2012

Offer expires May 2, 2012

10

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

FEATURE

Karen Santiago Dances Her Troubles Away

By Marlon Miranda EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

B

roken dreams are not the end of the journey but just the beginning.

Music begins to play as the dancer preps her steps before the intro. In the middle of her routine she feels a snap in her left knee and falls to the floor. A torn ligament stopped an American Ballet Theatre production but also derailed a young dancer’s career and dreams.

Karen Santiago, 55, once had a promising career as a ballet dancer which was cut short when a ligament tore in her knee as a teenager. The injury forced her to quit what she loved doing most — dancing.

“My life changed in five minutes, I was completely devastated,” said Santiago. “I couldn’t even listen to music for years.

Every time I heard a dance tune I

would break down and cry.”

The injury ended her ballet career but not her love for dancing.

Years after her injury, Santiago slowly started getting back into the dancing scene. She became a professional disco dancer and picked up belly dancing as a hobby. She has performed for former President Ronald Reagan, Casey Kasem, Al Pacino and Kiefer Sutherland.

Belly dancing brought her to a new audience, from private functions to benefit concerts. Santiago was getting back into the groove of her dancing career.

That career took another stop when she met her first husband.

Santiago soon found herself married and starting a family.

Once again she had to abandon her dance career. However, being there for her two children, Domanick and Dimitri Albera, was more important than dancing and school.

“When we first got married, I was a full-time student. We started our family right away so I had to give up on school and become a full-time housewife,” said Santiago.

Santiago started working at Arabic dance clubs, as well as working with renowned musicians like Jhad Racy (Ancient Egypt, Mystical Legacies) and Nabil Safi (Helwe Yalee Mashee, Neseet Yahabibi). She was asked to go Europe but refused because her children were too young.

After eight years, her first marriage collapsed in 1992. The split was mutual and they remain good friends to this day.

She remarried in 1993 to Neko Tzoulis, a man with deep family ties and a strict and overbearing personality.

Her marriage to Tzoulis forced her to stop dancing completely.

Her husband’s tradition and culture frowned upon belly dancing

Photo by Roger Lai

KEEP DANCING: Student Karen Santiago has been through adversity, but her love of dance keeps going.

and thought it to be more in the line of adult erotica than an art form.

“It was a real abusive relationship, both emotionally and physically. I got caught up in a trap most women [in unhealthy marriages] do,” said Santiago. “ I thought I could make it work out but he didn’t, so after 13 years I had to move on. It was a real hard time for me. I lost myself in trying to save my marriage.”

After spending more than 20 years in two marriages, Santiago needed a new beginning.

She went back to her roots and enrolled in a ballet class at Los Angeles City College. She decided to get her dancing certificate.

She heard great things about Dora Krannig and the GCC dance program. She wanted to get her certificate from Glendale. Santiago decided to talk to Krannig, department chair of ballet and choreography at the college. After speaking with Krannig, she decided to join the GCC dancing program.

“Karen is a beautiful person and dancer. She brings a lot of experience to the dancing program,” said Krannig. “It’s good to have such a good role model for the young dancers.”

Krannig introduced the twoyear instructional dancing certificate. Glendale is the only school that offers such a certificate. The certificate has been around since 2009 and gives dancers the ability to teach their own classes.

“I am very proud of our success rate. Everyone is always looking for dance instructors and most students who completed the dance program are already teaching their own classes and making

$20 an hour,” said Krannig.

Santiago will begin teaching her own belly dancing class after the semester at Blackbird Studios.

The studio is located at GCC. Her peers are captivated by her style and presence.

Amanda Richardson, 21, dance choreographer, has had classes with Santiago and holds her in high regard.

“She is a hardworking dancer who is very talented. She is an inspiration to work with and the nicest person I ever met,” said Richardson.

Despite high praise from her peers and instructors, Santiago has remained humble. She has had doubts about her teaching ability.

However, Krannig has been influential in helping Santiago regain her confidence.

“Because of my injury, I always felt like I was doing something wrong,” said Santiago.

“Thanks to [Dora] I have the confidence my students will be safe.”

An injury in her youth might have destroyed her goals as a ballet dancer, but her destiny couldn’t be stopped.

Despite the problems she encountered, she kept believing in her dreams even though she sometimes stopped believing in herself.

“I think what brought me to this point is that I have a good heart and no matter what happens I always keep a smile on my face,” said Santiago. “No matter how much sadness or disappointment I have encountered in my life, I never let it destroy me, I survived.”

Marlon Miranda can be reached at mirandaelvaquero@gmail.com

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

11

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

o o

o

o

o

o

o

F i l m reviews ‘Hunger Games’ Is Very Satisfying

By Evan Ramirez

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

A

film focusing on 24 kids pitted against each other in a death match getting this much attention is shocking, and its subject matter is rarely seen in mainstream cinema. To see a film like “The Hunger Games” getting so much buzz is surprising.

Not only is it an an enormous box office success, but its fan base is huge. Usually movies that garner this much excitement are familyfriendly pictures that anyone can go and enjoy.

“The Hunger Games” is almost the complete opposite of that. From the viewpoint of a person who hasn’t read the book it’s one thing seeing these characters, but for actual fans of the text, chances are that reading it and seeing it on the big screen are two completely different experiences, and viewing it with an audience is most likely a treat in itself.

“The Hunger Games” follows

o

o

Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, “Winter’s Bone,” 2010), a teenager who volunteers in place of her younger sister after she is chosen to participate in the Hunger Games, a battle to the death between 24 teenagers from 12 districts in the nation of Panem.

Along with 22 other contestants, Katniss is joined Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, “The Kids Are All Right,” 2010), a boy from her same district. The two set off for the Capitol where they receive training in preparation for the game as well as advice from many involved with the event.

When the game begins there will be gasps. Director Gary Ross (“Pleasantville,” 1998), doesn’t shy away from killing off these kids on screen. Though the violence is not glorified in any way, it’s impressive to see a Hollywood film really go for it.

Much has been made about “The Hunger Games” and its similarities to the 2000 Japanese cult classic “Battle Royale” and

LA Writer’s Series [Cape Cod, from page 5] paperback books, Ulin said he is in favor of reading books on electronic devices, but adds that it is “a great lie” that print will disappear. He believes digital and print editions of books will coexist because they each offer something the other doesn’t.

Ulin then moved on and talked about his history with writing.

He said he wanted to be a writer since he was 7.

“What got me into writing is that I didn’t realize how hard it was,” Ulin said. He added sarcastically, “I was addicted to it before I realized it was going to ruin my life.”

This is the fourth year of the bi-annual reading series. GCC English instructors Jocelyn Heaney and Claire Phillips are both founders and coordinators of the reading series.

“Students love it,” said Phillips. “They love meeting authors for the first time, they like the material, they love the books …

they like writing the papers. It’s demystifying and they like the tips on writing.”

Phillips said she chose Ulin for the reading series because of his knowledge and understanding of noir and because the genre reflects today’s society.

“These are very noir times,” said Phillips. “There’s a lot of desperation in the economy. It’s really good to discuss right now.”

Ulin is the author of “The Lost Art of Reading: Why Books Matter in a Distracted Time” and “The Myth of Solid Ground: Earthquakes, Prediction, and the Fault Line Between Reason and Faith,” selected as a best book of 2004 by the Chicago Tribune and the San Francisco Chronicle.

He was awarded a 2010 Southern California Independent Booksellers Association/Glenn Goldman Book Award for his work on “Los Angeles: Portrait of a City.”

Isiah Reyes can be reached at ireyes184@student.glendale.edu

o

o

o

o

o

o

o

o

the book it was based on, published in 1999. The similarities in plot alone are jarring at first glance, however, there are enough differences that each can be enjoyable on their own merits.

Both films deal with the sci-fi elements that they have nicely and each presents the audience with scenarios that are extremely frightening. While “Battle Royale” is just a relentless film right from the start, “The Hunger Games” takes its time in developing its characters, while leaving all of the action to the RIGHT ON TARGET: Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, stars in last half of the movie.

No matter what the simi- one of the dead teenager genre’s better offerings. larities to other films may be, drunk the entire time. a lack of excitement or action, “The Hunger Games” does have Along with those two, Stanley but rather its predictability. With that built-in audience that the Tucci is amazing as Caesar Flick- a film that deals with this kind book established. If it didn’t have erman, the television personal- of subject matter it seems like that group of fans foaming at the ity and host of all things Hunger screenwriters Gary Ross and mouth to see it from the day it Games. His blue hair is the first Billy Ray, along with Suzanne was announced, chances are that thing you’ll notice but his man- Collins, who both wrote the book its reception based on its premise nerisms are one of the best things and helped co-write the film, alone could have been negative. in the movie. could have taken a chance and reSurprisingly, the best part of The cinematography by Tom ally done something that no one the film isn’t the battle itself but Stern is admirable, though sur- would have expected. the lead up to it. This occurs when prisingly many of the scenes that “The Hunger Games” isn’t a all of the tributes arrive on the take place on the Capitol over- normal action/drama/sci-fi picCapitol for the first time. It’s only shadow those that are outdoors. ture. Rather than conform to borin this part of the film where Ross Included in this is a brilliant shot ing storytelling techniques, the flaunts the film’s sci-fi character- of Katniss waiting to go and be film switches things up a bit and istics, and they are a joy to see. interviewed by Caesar, standing in turn makes it much more enOverall the cast is is solid. The in front of hundreds of lights, joyable to watch. film is filled with fine young ac- right behind the curtain dividing What deserves recognition tors and proven up-and-comers, her between thousands of people. is “The Hunger Games” ability including Oscar nominee LawSome of that beautiful cinema- to challenge its audience. While rence, leading the movie. Being tography is quashed by the shaky mainstream movies rarely do it, in almost every scene in the film, cam that makes its way into many having everyone behind this film she does a nice job of holding the of the movie’s action scenes, in- push the audience is a breath of entire picture together. cluding the start of the game it- fresh air. Though fans of charHowever, the supporting cast self, one of the most important acter development will enjoy it, often overshadows the two main parts of the film. surprisingly its action-orientated characters in the movie, Katniss The one jarring negative that final half is overshadowed by its and Peeta. There are a couple of “The Hunger Games” possess is wonderful first half. Though it scene-stealing characters in the the plot twists it throws in near can be predictable, its stellar cast movie. These include the lovely the end of the movie. They all and intriguing story make up for Elizabeth Banks (“Zack and Miri take place during the game and most of the shortcomings that fall Make a Porno,” 2008), who plays are meant to spice things up, but behind the scenes.

Effie Trinket, an escort for the two they end up feeling like a cop out.

“The Hunger Games” is rated tributes from District 12. She gets On top of that, rather than let- PG-13 for intense violent thematin a couple of great one-liners. ting the game actually take place, ic material and disturbing images Woody Harrelson also lends the people behind it often inter- – all involving teens. The film his talents as a mentor to the two, fere, throwing in obstacles for runs 142 minutes. though primarily to Katniss. His the tributes that just seem lazy. It character has a nice arc that is would have been better served to surprising to see. This is especial- just allow the action to take place ly true based on the first couple of between the 24 contestants. scenes that he’s in, which made it What ultimately ends up hurtEvan Ramirez can be reached at seem like he would be playing a ing “The Hunger Games” is not eramire678@glendale.edu



12

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT / SPORTS

‘Raid’ Offers Escapist Violence, Good Editing

By Eric Bourse

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

W

elsh director Gareth Evans’ first attempt at an Indonesian martial arts film, “Merantau,” received a modest reception back in 2009 for its frenetic action and use of the martial art known as Silat. “The Raid: Redemption,” written and directed by Evans, tops his rookie effort tenfold.

The plot is simple: A rookie SWAT team breaches a 15-story apartment complex in the slums.

Their mission is to take out Tama Riyadi (Ray Sahetapy), a ruthless crime lord whose building, a safe haven for the meanest and most violent criminals, has had multiple break-in attempts by rival gangs and various police squads in the past with no luck.

The novice team’s success isn’t different. After clearing the first couple of floors, all hell breaks loose and only a handful of officers are left wobbling and must fight their way out. Unfortunately for them, scores of bad guys wielding machine guns, knives and machetes stand in their way.

Iko Uwais, who starred in “Merantau,” returns as Evans’ protagonist in “The Raid.” Uwais plays Rama, a young SWAT officer who must do anything it takes to save his remaining team members and return home to his pregnant wife.

The film’s action scenes are engaging and filled to the brim with excitement. Every time it seems a fight scene in “The Raid” can’t be topped, the next one raises the stakes and exceeds it. This continues over the entire length of the movie.

Uwais, who co-choreographed the fight scenes, is absolutely spectacular during his many brawls. The three-man rumble at the end of the film is especially thrilling and vicious.

Yayan Ruhian, who plays the henchman Mad Dog, also has standout moments in the film including his death match with the SWAT team’s captain, played by Joe Taslim.

“The Raid” can be considered to be an action film in a horror setting, similar to John Carpenter’s 1976 cult classic, “Assault on Precinct 13.” The corridors are narrow and grimy and the dead bodies are everywhere. Instead of zombies and ghosts, menacing mobs of machete-wielding henchmen wait behind every corner, ready to cut down Rama and his few surviving men to pieces.

Evans’ direction in the film is above and beyond the usual standards audiences would expect from today’s Hollywood action films today. Once the action starts, the pace never slows down, but it isn’t tiresome.

The camerawork and editing work brilliantly together during

Photo by Akhirwan Nurhaidir/©Sony Pictures Classics

CAN’T TOUCH THIS: Joe Taslim and Yayan Ruhian star in The Raid: Redemption. the countless fight scenes and don’t get lost in the violent chaos.

One notable shot in the film occurs when Rama drops down a makeshift hole and the camera drops with him. The film is peppered with these very slick camera shots and gives “The Raid” a unique look.

The film’s score by Mike Shinoda (from rap-rock group Linkin Park) and Joseph Trapenese, who collaborated with Daft Punk on the music of “Tron: Legacy” (2010), is just as visceral and exciting as the action in the film it-

Classified Advertising WATCH A NEW TV PILOT & GET PAID TO GIVE US YOUR OPINION IN A FOCUS GROUP.

Free Pregnancy Tests

Are Available

Location: North Hollywood/ Burbank area.

• V isit or call the Asian Pacific Health Care Venture – a community health center.

• F amily Planning Services (STD Testing, Birth Control Methods, etc.)

• E mergency Contraception Pill (ECP), and • F ree Pregnancy Tests (walk-ins available)

Brenda’s Recruiting Service (818) 225-8425

APHCV 1530 Hillhurst Ave. Suite 200, Los Angeles CA 90027 (323) 644-3888 www.aphcv.org

$70.00 PAID

VOICE LESSONS • Learn proper

technique

• Accomplished local singer • Reasonable rates

(818) 952-3633 www.teresaparente.com/lessons

To place an ad in the El Vaquero, contact Jeff Smith at jsmith@glendale.edu or (818) 240-1000, ext. 5493

self. Fans of Trent Reznor’s work on albums such as “Year Zero” (2007) as well as his soundtrack of “The Social Network” (2010) will be able to hear his strong influences as “The Raid’s” electronic score simmers during the buildup scenes creating a tension filled mood and explodes with crunchy synthesizers and drum beats that work in harmony to drive the kinetic onscreen violence.

The movie won’t win any awards for its story, despite its plot twists, but that doesn’t matter. The action is a nonstop and

brutal spectacle that will have audiences talking for years to come. In combination with its excellent directing, editing and soundtrack, “The Raid: Redemption,” shouldn’t be missed.

The movie is rated R for strong bloody brutal violence throughout and language and runs for 101 minutes.

4 out of 5 stars

 Eric Bourse can be reached at ebourse741@student.glendale.edu

Track and Field Teams Crash and Burn at Bakersfield College

By Eric Bourse

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

T

he Vaqueros sat in the bus — most looked impatient while others looked drowsy, inbetween naps. Sweat beads began to trickle down their faces as the sun began to heat up the crowded bus.

For more than half an hour, Glendale’s running teams were stuck in a traffic jam on the I-5 North headed toward Bakersfield.

Murphy’s Law states that anything that can go wrong, will. On Friday, the Vaqueros obeyed that law as the men’s and

women’s teams both finished in fourth place at the WSC Inland Meet in Bakersfield College, after a variety of unexpected obstacles were thrown at them. College of the Canyons took first place.

“We didn’t have a good day, to put it simply,” said Head Coach Eddie Lopez. “After arriving to the meet late, our track teams didn’t have enough time to warm up and prepare themselves.

Some of our top runners were also unable to compete because of injuries.”

The lack of a warm-up [See Track, page 13]

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

13

SPORTS

Frasier Delivers Wins in Vaqueros’ Tennis Defeat

Track Places Fourth [Track, from page 12] didn’t faze the Lady Vaqs during long distance races, such as the 3,000-meter run.

Cecilia Nicolas finished first in 11:02. Nohemi Martinez came in second in 11:05.34.

Angela Martinez finished third in 11:05.83. Grace Zamudio took fourth in 11:06. Alyssa Selve, who returned from a stress fracture injury, finished fifth in 11:31. Charlene Quintanilla took sixth place in 11:41.

During the race, Lopez had to run across the field to the scorer’s table after noticing that the officials weren’t counting the laps correctly which would have resulted in all the competitors in having to run an extra lap.

“Although the women did very well in the long distance races, there weren’t any new personal records that were set,” said Lopez.

Lilia Asserian finished first for the Lady Vaqs in the women’s 800-meter run with a time of 2:16. Nicolas came in third in 2:22 and Martinez finished sixth with a time of 2:26.

“I’ve been getting much better,” said Asserian, 22. “I didn’t like the track, I prefer harder surfaces, but I had a good performance today.”

Dylan Bourne, a member of the men’s team, admired the Lady Vaqs’ success in their long distance races.

“The women’s team was fantastic,” said Bourne, 18. “I was impressed when Lilia was able to charge past the girls who were ahead of her because it takes

a lot of energy.”

In the women’s 1,500-meter run, Zamudio finished first in 4:57. Martinez took second place in 5:01.Quintanilla came in third in. 5:05. Zulma Herrera finished fifth in 5:07 and Selve took sixth place in 5:11.

In the men’s 3,000-meter run, Vladimir Diaz finished second in 8:55. Issac Diosdado came in third with a time of 9:04 and Rico Gutierrez took fifth in 9:07.

In the 1,500-meter run, Kurt Lutz finished third 4:04.25.

Alexander Nelson took fourth in 4:04.95 and Diosdado came in fifth place in 4:07.

Despite solid performances in the middle and long distance races, both teams struggled in the 4x400 relays and hurdles.

The Vaqueros also finished poorly in the field competitions except for men’s javelin as Jason Ahn finished first with a 55.02 meter throw and women’s high jump with Justice Shank taking first place with a 1.58-meter jump.

“We’ve got to keep improving,” said Lopez. “Although both teams have had good seasons so far, it’s only three weeks before the preliminaries start. We can be doing a lot better.”

The track and field teams will compete on Friday at the Orange Coast Invitational at Orange Coast College at 10 a.m..

On April 14, the Vaqueros will compete at the Mt. Sac Invitational at Mt. Sac College at 10 a.m..

No. 1 player, Dugan. He lost his first match 7-6, but Dugan was too much for Campbell and he lost EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER his second match in straight set 6-0.

During the No. 3 singles, Andre Ratavousian rayson Frasier won his singles match 6-1, 6-1 and his doubles match with teammate Trevor lost his match in straight sets 6-3, 6-1.

No. 4, Fransico Alberto Campbell 8-4 in the Vaqueros’ Ochoa was also defeated in loss to Irvine Valley College straight sets, 6-1, 6-0.

6-3 on Thursday at Glendale Khanlarian lost his singles College. match 6-2, 6-2, but he made “I served well, I capitalized the loss up in his doubles vicon his weakness, which was tory. his forehand,” said Frasier. “I The team’s No. 6 single played loose and confident; I player, Mario Ruiz, was wasn’t nervous or tight. I just swept in his match, 6-0, 6-0. felt good.”

During the No. 2 doubles Frasier defeated Rafael match Ochoa and Ruiz, lost Da Luz relatively easy in the 8-4.

No. 2 singles match. Frasier The Vaqueros (5-12) have exploited Da Luz’s mistakes, lost six of their last seven forcing Da Luz to struggle games this season. But for throughout the match. head coach Bob MacKay, he “His overall game was Grayson Frasier photo by Alex Gonzalez takes this as a stepping stone good, but I noticed that he would go to his forehand a lot but he would get a to the end of the season.

“I think the important thing is that we are comlot of unforced errors,” Fraiser said. “I take it he ing to the end of our season. We have two more didn’t like high forehands.”

Frasier was able to take his singles victory and matches. We have a league match against Santa mindset to his No. 1 doubles match. Teammate Barbara and then we play Victor Valley next FriTrevor Campbell, the Vaqueros’ number one sin- day,” said MacKay. “We have to be ready for the gles player paired with Frasier and the two were Western State Conference tournament.”

MacKay is confident in his team that they’re able to defeat the Lasers’ top two players, Lance Dugan and Da Luz. The final score of the match going to get better as the season comes to end.

“All these matches are all building blocks for tallied up 8-4.

Frasier was the top performer for the Vaqs. His the end of the season,” he said. “I’m happy for victories in his singles and doubles earned one what I’m seeing. All we have to do is keep getting better.” point each for the overall score.

The Vaqueros’ final two matches are against “I played a lot better then I did in the rest of our Santa Barbara College Thursday and Victor Valley matches this season,” said Frasier.

The last point for the Vaqs’ came from the No. 3 on Friday. Both matches are at home. doubles match. Freshman Rick Ivynian and sophomore Eric Khanlarian won their match 9-7.

Alex Gonzalez can be reached at Campbell was able to keep up with the Lasers agonzal251@student.glendale.edu

By Alex Gonzalez

G

Eric Bourse can be reached at ebourse741@glendale.edu

Campus Comments What is your opinion of Frank McCourt’s decision to sell the Los Angeles Dodgers to a group of investors led by Lakers legend Magic Johnson?

Danny Lawton

Alexander Aleksonyan

Abdel Sayed

Erik Galvan

25

19

24

21

Kinesiology

International Business

International Business

Social Sciences

“I think it’s great to see an AfricanAmerican as part owner of a team like the Dodgers. I hope the team will make some good acquisitions and the franchise will get turned around.”

“I think it’s great for Los Angeles. It’s good to have him for the face of the Dodgers now. He’ll lead the Dodgers in the right direction and make winners of them again.”

“I think it’s very smart. I mean the Dodgers are more than a baseball team; it’s a whole brand. Franchising, clothing and much more. The Dodgers is a huge brand. It’s a smart decision!”

“I thought it was a good decision. I don’t think McCourt was a good owner. A guy like Magic Johnson who has been in the community and who loves L. A. is great.

I think it’s great for the community.” ­­—Compiled by Tex Wells

14

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

SPORTS

Baseball Team Hunts Cougars at Home

By Marlon Miranda EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

C

orey Popham pitched a scoreless game on five hits as the Vaqueros defeated College of Canyons 1-0 at Stengel Field Thursday.

Glendale was still feeling the lingering effects of losing a onerun, 14- inning ball game against LA Valley College in their prior game. Head Coach Chris Cicuto was proud of how his team reacted to the let down and rebounded well against the Cougars.

“We showed great maturity in overcoming a disappointing loss,” said Cicuto. “ [Corey] Popham pitched a great game today; he was aggressive and managed the game with quality pitches.”

Popham pitched a shut out but not everything went as he planned. He walked two batters and hit another with a pitch. Due to his crafty pitching, he forced College of Canyons to leave 12 runners stranded on base.

“I just wanted to give our team a chance to win and we beat a real good team,” said Popham. “It was difficult to overcome our last defeat, it was very important for us

to come out strong and aggressive this game and put the last loss behind us.”

Both teams didn’t give an inch as they remained scoreless throughout the first four innings.

GCC only gave up five hits and two errors. The Cougars gave up seven hits and no errors.

GCC had a scare in the fifth inning with two men on base. With two outs, Canyons got a hit and got the third out at home plate, ending the scoring drive as well as the inning.

Glendale’s focus was on defense, as first baseman Julian Jarrad made multiple outs and turned his glove into a magnet with flashy catches. His glove was the main reason why the Cougars couldn’t get anything going on offense.

“This victory is a huge moral boost for us after our last game,” said Jarrad. “ I used to be a shortstop, so I have great infield instinct that helped me a lot today.”

The Vaqueros’ defense on Canyons was reminiscent of their prior game in which they stranded 19 batters.

In the eighth inning, Cicuto started shuffling his line-up, in-

serting a pinch hitter which resulted in a hit. Then a pinch runner, a sacrifice bunt moved the runner to second base. Cameron Gardner hit his third single and scored the only run of the game.

“I picked up on the pitchers tendencies, he only had three pitches he was using,” said Gardner. “I wasn’t trying to over hit

the ball, I was just trying to make contact. I am just happy we got the win.”

With the lead heading into the final inning, GCC relied on closer Kirk Edson to lead them to victory. Edson is a side winder with a submarine type of release. He confused the Canyons as they struck out and grounded out the

side to end the game.

“We really needed this win.

Beating a good team after what we have been through lifts the entire team,” said Edson.

GCC’s next game is on Tuesday against West L.A. College.

Marlon Miranda can be reached at mirandaelvaquero@gmail.com

Vaquero Sports Summaries Scores Men’s Tennis: March 15 — lost to Bakersfield 5-4 March 20 — lost to L.A. Pierce 6-3 March 22 — lost to Ventura March 23 — lost to Amherst 6-3 March 26 — lost to Middlebury 8-1 March 27 — lost to Cerritos 5-4 Thursday — lost to Irvine Valley 6-3 Softball: March 15 — beat Bakersfield 3-2 March 20 — beat Santa Monica 17-2, 15-3 March 22 — beat Citrus 2-0 March 24 — lost to San Diego Mesa 13-1, won 5-4 Thursday — beat L.A. Mission 7-6 Saturday — beat Mt. San Jacinto 3-2 Men’s and Women’s Track and Field: Friday — WSC Inland Meet at Bakersfield Men/Women - finished fourth

Baseball: March 13 — lost to Pierce 5-4 March 15 — beat Bakersfield 6-5 March 20 — lost to Citrus 3-0 March 21 — beat L.A. Mission 7-1 March 22 — beat Citrus 14-2 March 24 — beat L.A. Valley 5-4 March 27 — lost to L.A. Valley 8-7 Thursday — beat Canyons 1-0 Saturday — lost to Canyons 7-5 Men’s Golf: March 19 — Finished second in North/ South at Hunter Ranch CC March 26 — Finished first in Neutral site/ WSC at Glendora CC Women’s Tennis: March 15 — beat Bakersfield 7-2 March 20 — beat Santa Monica 5-4

Upcoming Events Men’s and Women’s Track and Field: Friday — Orange Coast Invite 10 a.m.

April 14 — Mt. Sac Invitational 9 a.m.

April 20 — WSC Prelims at Santa Barbara 1 p.m.

Softball: Friday — vs L.A. Valley 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday — at Bakersfield 2:30/4:30 p.m.

April 12 — vs. Santa Monica 2:30 p.m.

April 17 — vs. Citrus 1/3 p.m.

April 19 — at L.A. Valley 2:30 p.m.

April 24 — vs. L.A. Mission 1/3 p.m Photo by Seneyda Rodriguez

SHUTOUT: Vaquero pitcher Corey Popham picks up his fourth big win of the season.

elvaq.com

Baseball: Tuesday — at West L.A. 2:30 p.m.

April 12 — vs. West L.A. 2:30 p.m.

April 14 — vs. L.A. Pierce 1 p.m.

April 17 — at L.A. Pierce 2:30 p.m.

April 19 — at Bakersfield 6 p.m.

April 21 — vs. Bakersfield 1 p.m.

April 24 — vs. L.A. Mission 2:30 p.m.

Men’s Golf: Friday — vs. Ventura at Marshalia Ranch 10 a.m.

April 11 — vs. Citrus/WSC at San Dimas 10:30 a.m.

April 16 — WSC at Oakmont CC 11 a.m.

April 23 — vs. Allan Hancock/WSC at Santa Maria CC 10:30 a.m.

Men’s Tennis: Thursday — vs. Santa Barbara 2 p.m.

Friday — at Victor Valley 11 a.m.

April 13-14 — WSC at Ventura 10 a.m.

Women’s Tennis: Thursday — vs. Santa Barbara 2 p.m.

April 13-14 — WSC Tourney at Ventura TBA

For more information see: http://www.glendale.edu/athletics/

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

15

Calendar On Campus EVENTS Easter Egg Hunt — For the kids from the Child Development Center. Featuring an Easter bunny, games, candy and more.

Sponsored by ASGCC. Thursday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero.

Chess Tournament — The Advanced Chess Organization is hosting their Individual Swiss System Tournament. Open to all.

Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. in SC 212.

Spring Break — No classes are scheduled. Starts on April 9 and continues through April 14.

Swap Meet — Upper campus parking lot. April 15 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free and open to the public. For more information, call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5805.

Automotive Info — GCC Car Club members will provide free information and advice regarding auto issues, such as repairs. April 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero.

Armenian Genocide Commemoration Day — Information booths, displays and presentations. Organized by the Armenian Students Association. April 19 from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m. in Kreider Hall and Plaza Vaquero.

FUNDRAISERS Taco Sale — The Leo Club hosts their fundraiser to benefit both

Autism Walks and scholarships.

Today in Plaza Vaquero from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Clothing Drive — The Sociology Club is soliciting donations of blankets, coats, jackets and new socks for the Brothers Helpers organization. Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero.

Basketball Challenge — The Leo Club takes on Circle K International to raise funds for charity.

Hot dogs and refreshments will be served. Thursday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the outdoor courts near the SF buildings.

KONY 2012 — The Amnesty Club will be holding a fundraiser for the KONY 2012 cause. April 19 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero.

REGISTRATION Classes Begin — Second six and eight week classes begin on April 16. Deadline to drop those classes without a “W” and be eligible for a refund is April 21.

Summer Session 2012 — April 20 is the deadline for admission and to still be eligible for priority registration.

OPPORTUNITIES Transfer Fair — Representatives will provide information to students about opportunities available at their campuses. More than 40 universities will be on

hand. April 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 5 to 7 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero. For information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5442.

Job Fair — Numerous employers will have recruiters on campus. Job-seekers should come prepared and bring copies of upto-date resumes. Sponsored by Student Employment Services.

April 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero For information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5194.

lege administration. Free and open to all. Today in the Auditorium. from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m.

Board of Trustees Meeting — April 16 at 5 p.m. in Krieder Hall.

For more information visit: www. glendale.edu/boardoftrustees.

THEATER

Faculty Award — English professor Monette Tiernan, recipient of the Distinguished Faculty Award, will present “I Bid My Hideous Progeny Go Forth: Presumption, Selfhood and Beginning College Writers.” Free. April 23 at 12:20 p.m. in Kreider Hall.

“Godspell” — Directed by Melissa Randel and featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz.

Presented by the Theatre Arts and Music Departments Auditorium Mainstage Theatre. April 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. with matinees on April 22 and 29 at 2 p.m. Tickets $18 general admission, $13 for students and seniors, and $10 for children 12 and under. For tickets or more information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5168.

LECTURES

PLANETARIUM

Science Lecture Series — “Everything You Always Wanted to Know about HPV, but were Afraid to Ask.” Speaker is Dr. Martin Kast, Professor of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology at USC. Free. April 24 at 12:20 p.m. in CS 177.

Evening with the Stars — “Astronomy vs. Astrology: Just What is the Difference?!” April 21 at 6:30 and 8 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. No late arrivals.

For more information, visit www. glendale.edu/planetarium or call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5275

MEETINGS

MOVIES

Town Hall — This meeting will provide information on the budget issues facing both the state and GCC. Presented by the col-

Friday Flix: — A screening of the 2001 film “Amelie” starring Audrey Tautou on Friday.

Then, on April 20 the 1976 Mar-

AWARDS

tin Scorsese film “Taxi Driver” starring Robert De Niro and Jodie Foster. Films are free at 12:30 p.m. in SG 334. A discussion facilitated by instructor Mike Petros follows the screeenings.

ART GALLERY “What Should a Painter Do?” — Art Gallery. An exhibition by the New York-based artist David Schafer featuring new sculptures with sound. Runs through April 28. Admission is free. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.glendale. edu/artgallery or call (818) 2401000, ext. 5663.

WORKSHOPS “Effective Resume” — Focuses on essential resume-writing principles, formats and content.

Today at 1 p.m. and April 17 at 3 p.m. Free. Career Center, San Rafael Building. For information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5407.

“Successful Interview Stratagies” — Focuses on interview styles, common questions and more. Prepare for the job fair.

April 16 from 11 a.m. to noon.

Free. Career Center, San Rafael Building.

“Summary vs. Analysis” — Explore ways in which paragraph information may be analyzed. Free.

April 19 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in AD 238. For more information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5341.

Around Town EXHIBITIONS In Wonderland: The Surrealist Adventures of Women Artists in Mexico and the United States — LACMA. This exhibit includes works in a variety of media dating from 1931 to 1968.

A free night for college students is Thursday. Tickets $15 adult, $10 students and seniors. Runs through May 6. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. For more information call (323) 857-6000 or visit www.lacma.org.

Richard Bunkall: A Portrait — Pasadena Museum of California Art. This exhibit surveys the paintings, drawings, and sculptures of the Pasadena-based artist known for his distinctive style.

490 E. Union St., Pasadena. Runs through April 22. Adults $7, seniors and students $5. For more information call (626) 568-3665 or visit www.pmcaonline.org.

Gothic Grandeur: Manuscript Illumination, 1200–1350 — The Getty Center. This exhibition showcases a range of books, from

lavish prayer volumes and bibles, to illustrated scientific texts. Runs through May 13. 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles. Free.

Parking is $10. For more information call (310) 440-7300 or visit www. getty.edu.

MUSIC Markus Pawlik — Glendale Noon Concerts presents a piano recital by Markus Pawlik. Free in the Sanctuary of the First Baptist Church of Glendale, 209 N. Lou-

ise St. Today from 12:10 to 12:40 p.m. For more information call (818) 242-2113 or visit www.fbcglendale.net.

THEATER “A New Brain” — Alex Theatre.

William Finn’s semi-autobiographical account of how he made the most out of life in the face of a harrowing major illness. 216 N. Brand Blvd. April 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices vary. For information, visit www.alextheatre.org.

WELLNESS Free Health Clinic — Tuesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. by appointment (limited walk-ins as space allows). 134 N. Kenwood St., third floor, room 330. No job or sportsrelated physicals. For information call (818) 243-2105, ext. 202 or visit www.glendaleclinic.org.

Compiled by Richard Kontas Send event information to: elvaquero.editor@gmail.com

16

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

www.elvaq.com

VAQUERO VIEWS

Mathias Dahl, From Sweden with Love “A lot of doors opened. A lot of good stuff has happened, I met my EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER roommate, Derrik Hubband. I met my lendale is one of only 20 colleges teammates, Michael Timpson, and in Southern California that has a Richard Maloof. And all those three golf team; that’s 120 players and out of were going to be buddies for life,” said those 120 players, Mathis Dahl, from Dahl.

Teammate Nick Quintanilla GCC is the new No. 1 player.

“He’s a confident player — he’s not described what it is like to have Dahl cocky — he’s a very confident player,” on the team.

“Competitively, it drives you to said head golf coach Greg Osbourne.

“He’s never going to shoot a high beat him, but also makes you secure,” Quintanilla said. “If a couple of us score, he’s consistent.”

Growing up in Haninge, Sweden, play our best, he’s going to play well no matter what; it’s a Dahl watched his father, given that he is going uncle, and cousin play to play well. If you just golf. And for Dahl, it play good at your own became second nature game, we’re all going to to pick up a set of clubs do well.” and take on the green With the addition himself. of Dahl, his talent and “When I was little, I knowledge of the game pretty much wanted to makes the team stronger try everything out and I when competing. just like golf,” said Dahl.

“We had a strong “I like the fact that you’re team coming into this trying to put something in a hole from far away.

Photo by Roger Lai year,” said Osbourne “And when he selected It’s all about you. You didn’t have to care about anybody else, us from Sweden and since he has been here, it’s a blessing in disguise that he you just play your own game.”

Since he was 5 years old, Dahl has came here, but he’s had a great time. He been active in several sports, including gets along with everybody on the team.”

When Dahl told his parents he golf. He played soccer until he was 10, and played a game call floorball, which would attend college in America is similar to ice hockey but without ice, and play golf, he received different reactions from his mother and father. until he was 17.

“My dad was very proud of me. He Dahl’s life goal is to play on the PGA tour, and the only way he could doesn’t like America, but he wanted accomplish his goal was to come to me to go for golf, go for my goals and America and play at a school and get a do what ever it takes, and [he said] the U.S. might be the best place to do it,” good education However, Glendale College was not said Dahl.

“My mom was a little bit on the his top choice. Earlier last year, Dahl took a trip to Texas and Oklahoma and other side, She was more like he’s visited division one and two schools. going away, I’m not going to see him.

He received a scholarship to play for She was more of the sad side of it. It a school in Oklahoma, but the head was a little bit of a struggle for her.”

Dahl said he speaks to his parents coach of the team was fired and his every week and is constantly updated scholarship disappeared.

“I had nowhere to go after that,” on what is happening bank in Haninge.

For Dahl and his future, he wants to said Dahl. “I had a guy back in Sweden, he was kind of like my adviser and he continue to improve his game and take has very good contacts with Glendale it to the next level. As of right now, College. So he pretty much asked me if he is talking to a couple of schools I wanted to go to Glendale. I told him, in San Diego and also Arizona State ‘Los Angeles? Sounds good, let’s go.’” University.

So far, University of San Diego is at “I knew he was a good player,” Osbourne said. “He was like a blessing the top of his list.

“I want to have good weather, in disguise for me, it ended up working out much better than we ever thought.” good golf, and a good school. And the In fact, Dahl said that he is happy University of San Diego fits in all those with how everything worked out, or categories,” said Dahl. else, he would not be in Glendale and have not made the friendships and Alex Gonzalez can be reached at alexgonzo360@gmail.com bonds he currently has.

By Alex Gonzalez

G