Nov.26, 2008

El Vaquero November 26, 2008

Glendale College

Patrick Rosalez

“Per Gioco” Performance by Music Department Staff See story, page 6

Photo by Ismael Reyes

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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NEWS/LETTER

Board Attacks Budget Cuts El Vaquero Glendale Community College

Jessica Bourse

Ross Coleman

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STAFF WRITERS

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ommunity colleges took a $292 million cut last year and this college may lose an additional $4.5 million this year, said Patrick McCallum, legislative advocate for Glendale Community College in Sacramento, in a special presentation on legislative updates at a board of trustees meeting Nov. 17.

“The cuts are disproportionately unfair to community colleges,” said McCallum.

A $30 per unit fee is being proposed by the state legislature starting next year. The governor proposed a $26 per unit fee last January.

“I wouldn’t be surprised to see a fee over $30 in the January budget,” said McCallum.

McCallum said that the previous year would be an indicator for what would happen in January and in the coming years.

“The public doesn’t believe in high fees. In fact, the public opposes fee increases on community college students at a greater rate than they oppose tax increases,” said McCallum.“They don’t like taxes, they don’t like fees …basically they want their services and they don’t want to pay for it — 71 percent of the public thinks we are doing an excellent to good job; 68 percent of the public understands that community colleges are underfunded.”

McCallum said it’s going to take an all-out effort, encouraging board members

to contact the state legislature by writing a personal story in a letter and for instructors to communicate with students on this matter.

Following McCallum was a special presentation by Harry Hull, president of the Glendale College Foundation.

Hull said the global stock market collapse has affected the college and the invested endowment assets have taken a major hit. However, the college has a very long term horizon for investments and there is an experienced financial committee, who are closely watching the college’s funds.

“We have the benefit of being able to tap into the resources of a very capable fund manager at Capital Guardian… We have investments in U.S. companies and the best companies around the world,” said Hull.

“You [the board] should know that we have a diversified portfolio and we have an investment strategy and a spending plan that we think are going to help to hold up our endowments in spite of the global crisis.”

Hull said this has been an unprecedented rocky year in the stock market and our assets are down significantly in the short term.

“Our foundation has an incredible history of service to this college,” said Hull, “When you walk around the campus you see the results of our efforts in a lot of places, from the football field and the scoreboard, to the planetarium, to the new health science building, to many other places; this foundation has long supported a lot of areas in the college.”

“But now we are excited to be looking at an area where we haven’t directly touched in the past and

that’s the theater arts department.

We have a committee reviewing the possibility of helping to fund a major renovation of the auditorium from the seats, to the lighting to the stage lift and other areas,” said Hull.

Hull said this will help the college attract students who are enthusiastic about the arts.

The governor has a half tax increase, half budget cut approach to the state budget.

The third special presentation was given by Steve Marsden, faculty guild chief negotiator and math professor.

“This is the worst budget disaster I’ve ever seen and I’ve been here [a long time],” said Marsden, “but there’s a difference between crisis mode and goinginto-panic mode and I worry that some of you [on the board] may not just get it, so let me provide a little bit of history. At least once per decade we have a major budget crisis here. If we all come together beforehand to provide, we survive by what’s called ‘institutional pruning,’ otherwise known as reprioritization with limited resources.”

Institutional pruning is when budgets are slashed, programs and people disappear and students suffer, said Marsden.

According to Marsden, if the faculty and board don’t join forces, students will suffer even more.

Marsden went on to say that in these times leadership is important, citing the board’s reliance on lawyers to the tune of $330,000, said “we don’t need lawyers as much as we need leaders.”

Going further on to describe [See Board, page 3]

Correction “I want to begin by thanking you for the article [“Why Groups Move,” Oct. 29 issue] you wrote on the presentation Nathaniel and I made a few weeks back on immigration. There were a few errors in the article, however. The main one that Nate and I are concerned about is the third from the last paragraph, where you state that our solutions to immigration is to expand guest worker programs and increase enforcement of illegal immigration. This is actually the opposite of what we were suggesting. First, and, foremost, we do not see immigration as necessarily a problem. If capital is allowed to flow across borders, so should people. We definitely are not for the expansion of guest worker programs that allow for the maximum exploitation of people without providing them human rights. Also, we are not for increasing the enforcement of illegal immigration. We would like to see solutions that are not draconian and anti-immigrant. If neoliberal policies are displacing workers in Mexico, then those policies need to be challenged.”

—Richard Kamei, Sociology Professor via e-mail 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.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

3

NEWS

BUDGET [Board from Page 2]

leadership versus process, Marsden said, “This place is not about process, it’s about people.”

“And make no mistake — this faculty is here today, not asking for a damn dime — we’re demanding that you listen to our leaders because we’re behind them 100 percent,” said Marsden.

To Victor King, board of trustees president, Marsden said, “We don’t want to run GCC, but we do expect to be heard and to play a strong role helping the college to survive this perfect storm of a budget crisis. That is our custom. That is our right.”

To Steve Ferguson, student trustee who said the 1 percent pay raise was “anti-student,” Marsden said that the 1 percent pay raise that was passed was not about money, but maintaining the last shred of dignity that allows the faculty to do their jobs.

“You know my biggest fear for this place is not that we end up battling each other for priorities, because we’ll outlast you,” said Marsden, “My biggest fear is that your actions or inactions will end up completely destroying the passion that drives GCC. And I‘m worried that we‘re going to turn this place into just another job location, where the staff shows up, puts in the minimal time and effort and goes home. Now that’s really anti-student.”

Marsden said that almost all the student programs are faculty conceived and implemented and are fueled by faculty energy.

He said the board seems to be singling the faculty out as part of the problem of the budget crisis.

“We’re [the faculty] not part of the problem, we’re part of the solution,” he said.

There was clapping and hooting from the audience members at every pause during Marsden’s speech.

Herbert Molano, community activist, commented on the fiscal fitness of the college.

“For a long time I have been a very strong advocate of the community college system,” said Molano, “and I understand

how its financial health today is very challenging.”

“It’s especially challenging because today when we have a downturn in the economy.

Many adults who are laid off, turn to the community colleges to retrain, so the burdens on you [administrators and the board] are actually doubled,” said Molano.

“The economy is down, the budget is in significant distress and you find more and more people who are going to need the services provided by the community college to be able to allow them to endeavor a new career.”

He commented on resolution 18, section 4, an item that said the Glendale Community College District will pay the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) from the same source of funds used for paying salary, by saying that the return on the investments, during this period of economic distress, would be in a significant amount of downturn in the coming years.

“What I wonder is what that additional burden on you would have on the staff and on the faculty,” said Molano.

Molano’s second point had more to do with state and local budgets and how the cost of one person’s medical transportation costs to the city and, ultimately costs to the state. How costs like that effects the budget when multiplied hundreds of times and how eventually the college feels the impact through its own budget in its ability to fund programs and salaries for the staff and faculty.

“My objective here is to give you an additional type of awareness,” he said.

The board moved on to other topics after the special presentations.

Items on the consent calendar were voted in as well as the concept of a campus beautification fund to plant flowers and renovate areas on campus.

The next board of trustees meeting is scheduled for Dec. 15 in Kreider Hall in the San Rafael Building at 5 p.m.

President Hosts Meeeting

By Isiah Reyes

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

A

lthough few people showed up at the Student Center Nov.11 for college President Audre Levy’s planned questionand-answer session for students, faculty and staff, the meeting went ahead — for about 15 minutes.

With little detail offered, Levy, Dr. Vicki Nicholson (Associate Vice President), Dr. Dawn Lindsay (Vice President of Instructional Services), Dr. Ricardo Perez (Vice President of Student Services) and a few others spoke about topics ranging from the college’s current budget to future plans.

The meeting was widely publicized but, according to Nicholson, the reason for the low attendance might have been the timing of the event which was from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Taking place in the evening, the event did not allow for teachers who teach evening classes to attend.

Also, there was a morning seminar earlier that same day, which may have made the evening meeting redundant for those who attended that gathering.

Nicholson states that had more people showed up, Levy and the others would have answered all the questions and the direction of the meeting would go to wherever

the questions led them.

In addition, Nicholson explained that the meetings are important because they give the administrators the opportunity to answer any questions that may be on anyone’s mind.

Isiah Reyes can be reached at isiah_reyes@elvaq.com

Photo by Allan Beglarian

Dr. Levy, Superintendent/President of Glendale Community College, presides over an evening Q-and-A session regarding the general direction of GCC during the mid-year state-budget crisis.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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NEWS

‘Homeless Connect Day’ Unites Volunteers, Charities

By Isiah Reyes

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

V

olunteers plan to improve the lives of homeless people by providing resources at the annual “National Homeless Connect Day” to be held at the Glendale Armory from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 4.

The event will focus primarily on helping the homeless people in Glendale, but will also assist low-income families by providing employment assistance, child care services, counseling, veterans’ benefits, and health care referrals According to Natalie Komuro, executive director of Path Achieve Glendale, which is a service center created to end homelessness in the Glendale area, about 100 homeless people are expected to arrive at the “National Homeless Connect Day” and volunteers are urged to help out with the day’s events.

Volunteers who sign up can help out by being part of the set-up crew or by escorting the homeless to the various stations. Beside

the manual work, volunteers can also participate in planning and coordinating different aspects of the event.

In addition to volunteers, donations are needed for the oneday event. Key items needed for donation include milk, cereal, dish soup, laundry soup, laundry dryer sheets and trash bags.

Some of the patrons and sponsors who have donated money to Path Achieve include First United Methodist Church of Glendale (which has donated $1,000 to $4,999), Calstar Motors Mercedes (which has donated $10,000 to $49,999) and Pacific BMW (which has donated $50,000 and higher).

Path Achieve’s main goal is to offer housing services in emergency shelter, transitional housing, or permanent supportive housing.

The emergency shelter helps homeless families and individuals with a safe, stable environment for 60 days from which they can actively pursue a case management

plan leading to self-sufficiency.

The transitional housing provides clients with stable housing and case management services for up to two years.

The permanent supportive housing provides affordable housing for people with disabilities.

Since 1997, 70 percent of the shelter residents at Path Achieve have moved into housing at the end of a two-to-three month stay.

Path Achieve Glendale joined the PATH Partners family of agencies in July 2006, forging an effective new partnership to serve the homeless of City of Glendale.

The other agencies that will be present at the event include the Department of Social Services, Public Health Social Security Administration, Catholic charities and local hospitals among others.

The Homeless Coalition will hold the event at the Glendale Armory, located at 220 Colorado St. Isiah Reyes can be reached at isiah_reyes@elvaq.com

El Vaquero, Insider Win Regional Contests

By Jane Pojawa

EL VAQUERO PRODUCTION MANAGER

T

he Journalism Association of Community Colleges [JACC] held its annual southern California division conference Nov. 14 and 15 at Cal-State Fullerton. This prestigious organization is comprised of 111 member community colleges in Calif., Arizona and Nevada.

Among the SoCal division colleges, 31 sent delegates to the conference; Glendale was not among them, for reasons stemming from inadequate funding.

The conference offers a number of opportunities for journalism students; portfolio reviews, social networking

with other students, recruitment to university programs, workshops led by industry professionals and competitions.

The contests for student journalists include mail-in, bring-in and on-the-spot competitions.

As non-participants, the El Vaquero and Insider (the campus magazine) staffs were not eligible for either bring-in or onthe-spot competitions; however the mail-in competition, based on last semester’s print media, was open to Glendale students.

The Insider won an award for general excellence, Olga Ramaz won first place for opinion writing and editor-in-chief [See JACC, page 7]

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008 5

NEWS

City Sets New Smoking Rules; Campus Unaffected

By Claudia Anaya

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

T

he Glendale Smoke-Free Ordinance went into effect on Nov. 6 but will not affect the current state code prohibiting smokers from being 20-feet from building entrances, windows and open vents.

Steven P. Wagg, chief of police, says that since GCC is a special district that devises its own enforcements, the city’s ban will not apply to the college but the “county has asked for health reasons that there’s no smoking within 20 feet of a door or an operable window,” and this will apply.

“We will enforce that; there is a law in the book that has fines that we can issue tickets for. If officers see people smoking next to a door, next to a window they tell them not to,” said Wagg.

“If someone is smoking in a place that they shouldn’t be, we first have to be notified and we’ll go out there and talk to them; and if we see it when we are on foot patrol, we’ll go out and talk to them and tell them to stop,” said Wagg.

“Most of the time once people know about the rules they are more likely to follow them,” said Wagg.

The citation for violating the

20-foot rule on campus is $35 and of it and when people come into qualifies as an infraction. class it smells bad,” said Beatriz The new city ordinance states Napoles, 18, psychology major. that it serves to protect the public At bus stops, there are little kids health, safety, and general welfare that it can affect.” by prohibiting smoking in public The City Council came up places and in with findings the common that included areas of multi“extensive family rental medical research housing under confirms that circumstances tobacco smoke where one or is harmful to more persons smokers and nonwill be exposed smokers alike, to smoke. triggering eye, When a person nose, throat, and is violating sinus irritation; the ordinance, hastening lung they could be disease, including —Meeso Sihn warned, told to emphysema; and stop smoking, leave the premises, causing heart disease and lung move to a smoking permitted cancer” as is stated in Section 2 of area; and a person who continues Section 8.52.020 of the Glendale to smoke after the verbal warning Municipal Code. will result in an infraction but The United States Centers for after three violations within the Disease Control and Prevention same year it will be considered a estimates that secondhand smoke misdemeanor. causes 3,000 lung cancer deaths The first infraction will per year among adult non-smokers receive a $100 citation, followed in the United States. by a $200 citation after a second Additionally, the California violation within the same year Environmental Protection Agency and $500 for every violation after has concluded that secondhand that. smoke causes coronary heart “I think [the ban] is good disease in non-smokers. because [smoking] affects The new Glendale ordinance everyone, and for me, my eyes start will prohibit smoking in open watering and I get sick because public places including:

“Every one should be allowed to smoke in school because school is very stressful.”

The Americana, libraries, city hall, bus stops, ticket lines, cab stands, valet parking dropoff/pick up area, and other open public places.

Carolina Chavez, 19, medicine major, thinks it’s bad for people’s health to smoke and “the ban is a good thing.”

Meeso Sihn, 19, biochemistry major, is used to the ban in Burbank but thinks the new order is “stupid. Everyone should be allowed to smoke in school because school is very stressful.”

Sihn says she tries to keep other people in mind before she smokes and always ask them if they mind her smoking around them.

The ordinance states that it is a reasonable balance between the needs of persons who smoke and the needs of non-smokers, including children, to breathe smoke-free air, by recognizing the threat to public health and the environment that smoking causes, and by acknowledging that, when these needs conflict, the need to breath smoke-free air must prevail.

The non-smoking areas on campus are marked with signs and include all eating areas.

“People are going to smoke wherever they want,” said James Lee, 23, a marine, who was visiting his friends on campus.

Wagg anticipates there will be a no smoking law on campus in the future but right now he says that they are trying to balance both the rights of the smokers and the rights of the non-smokers.

“If the smoke bothers people and the smoker is violating the rules they can call campus police but if the smoke bothers them and it’s a smoking zone they are recommended to move to a different location,” said Wagg.

The ordinance states that it recognizes the right of city citizens, workers, and visitors to be from unwelcome secondhand smoke.

It also ensures a cleaner and more hygienic environment for the city, its residents, and its natural resources.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2009, an ambassador from neighborhood services will visit restaurants, businesses, and apartment owners to help them understand how the ordinance will be applied.

In Spring 2009, the city staff will begin to give out warnings and information about the ban.

When the ban goes into effect public officials will enforce it.

Claudia Anaya can be reached at claudia_anaya@elvaq.com

Pop Ensemble Cabaret Showcases Vocal Talent

By Corinna Scott

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

T

he fall cabaret featuring Vocal Pops Ensemble and Commercial Voice was off to a good start when Commercial Voice welcomed a full house with a warm and vibrant “It’s Today” on Nov. 18 in the auditorium.

Pam Glazier lit up the stage singing “Bye, Bye Blackbird,” followed by Armond Pirjanian capturing the mournful feeling of Elton John’s “Daniel.”

“I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” was performed by Kathy Gonoude in cheerful tones.

“Progression” soon followed, as the room was filled with the instrumental sounds from musicians Brent Crayon, Oliver Steinberg and Emeliano Almeida, who accompanied all the soloists and chorus numbers on guitar,

piano and drums.

Mondo Fowler sang “Exhale,” which began slowly at first but progressed into a jazzy tune.

“You’re Just in Love,” a charming piece sung by Vocal Pops Ensemble, had creative choreography as the women sat on benches, singing shoulder to shoulder, as the two men in the chorus came in to sing over their shoulders and explain “you’re not sick, you’re just in love.”

Janice Robinson sang a mellow version of “Natural Woman,” followed by a choral version of “Unforgettable” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” sung by vocal pops ensemble.

A wistful number, by Jamie Avancena and Kysara Montoya, “If Momma Was Married,” was a song about two gypsy girls who long for their mothers to marry so they could live in a house, instead

of a caravan.

“Not for the Life of Me,” from the musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” was sung by Jamie Young. The song tells a story about a girl who moves away from a small town to a big city and is not planning to move back — Young roused the audience with her performance and spirit.

An entertaining and funny “Don’t Tell Mamma,” with its racy lyrics sung by the women’s ensemble, told a story about a girl who lives a completely different life from the one she tells her “mamma.”

The show closed with a rousing “People Get Ready,” sung by Commercial Voice and Vocal Pops Ensemble.

Charles Ion, music instructor, said that the show is for singers who have more experience, but some are just starting out.

The goal is to “package” the singer —how the singer sounds and the motions they make with their hands to emote the mood of the song.

The Fall Cabaret is an extra chance for students to give a performance so their friends and family can come said Ion. “ We’d like to include all three of my classes in the next show we

do,” said Ion. The next choir performance will be held on Dec. 6 at 7:30 in the auditorium. For more information, contact the music department at (818) 240-1000, ext.5829

Corinna Scott can be reached at Corinna_Scott@elvaq.com

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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FEATURES

Music Department Staff Delights with ‘Per Gioco’

By Fabiola Prieto

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

M

usic Faculty members Peter Green, Beth Pflueger, and Patrick Rosalez, presented a chamber music recital that delighted a full house on Nov. 13.

“Per Gioco,” an Italian phrase for “for fun,” was the name of the performance attended by more than 70 people. It also describes the reason for which these three talented musicians presented their show here on campus.

The ensemble was to perform in a fundraiser off campus that would the following weekend.

“We were getting ready for that, so we thought: ‘well, we have this music; why don’t we just do it for our students here?’” Pflueger said.

The fundraiser was organized by Inspiring Notes, an organization that is dedicated to providing “free classical music experience” to young people in the San Fernando Valley.

“It’s really great to have this opportunity for students to hear us, because in the classroom we talk about how you’re supposed to do it and this gives us a chance to actually do it,” said Pflueger.

In this performance, Pflueger played the flute. She teaches music theory as well as coordinates in the applied music program in GCC. Rosalez, who played the viola, teaches viola classes in the applied music program. Green, the pianist, administers the piano program and serves as assistant chair of the visual and performing arts division.

The program consisted of four pieces from composers that ranged from the 1680s to the 1900s.

The first one was Georg Philipp Telemann’s Sonata in B Minor; a very traditional chamber music piece according to Pflueger.

This piece begins with a tender,

slow-paced melody with a feeling of loss –very solemn. The beauty of it, is that it gradually evolves so that the ending evokes the sense of triumph over the feeling conveyed in its beginning.

According to Pflueger, although Bach, Telemann’s contemporary, is better known today, Telemann was more popular and better paid in their time.

The second piece was the first movement of Mozart’s Sonata K. 304. In this piece, only the viola and piano were played.

Rosalez gave an amusing detail on how the composition came to be; he said that Mozart wrote it after a girlfriend left him.

“You can imagine being a 22year-old with all this gusto and being dumped...certainly, he felt pretty bad and went through a wide range of emotions. I know – I was dumped a couple of times when I was 22,” said Rosalez, eliciting laughter from the audience.

The last two pieces were “Romanesque” by the French composer Reynaldo Hahn, and “Prelude, Récitatif et Variations, Op. 3” by Maurice Duruflé.

This last one, Pflueger said, was particularly difficult since one of Duruflé’s specialties was the organ; in parts of this piece, he used different tempos for each instrument.

The response from the audience was definitely positive; a long ovation prompted the performers to return for a second bow.

“It was amazing, the three musicians played very passionately,” said music major Julian Jaramillo, 24, Consequently, the performers were pleased; “It was wonderful to see so many people. It was a terrific turn out” Pflueger said.

[See related photo on cover] Fabiola Prieto can be reached at fabiola_prieto@elvaq.com

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Beth Pflueger was one of three musicians playing Sonata in b minor composed by Georg Philipp Telemann at the “Per Gioco” faculty recital on Tuesday, Nov. 13.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

7

FEATURES

Ugalde Says Adios With Vivid Homage to Travels

By Claudia Anaya

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

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atin American people, landscapes and revolutions were captured in a dramatic photographic “poem” presented by retiring Latin American Studies Professor Carlos Ugalde in Kreider Hall Thursday.

The expressive faces of old and young people from countries south of our border, juxtaposed with exquisite landscapes, brightly colored buildings and scenes from various revolutions of the 20th Century were the culmination of sabbatical leaves the professor took during his more than 20 years on the faculty.

The slide presentation was accompanied by gentle strains of Latin guitar and livelier pieces, from mariachi to Beethoven.

“Nuestra America” the 20-minute audio and visual poem, was based on 30 years of his travels — documenting photographically the social, political and cultural life of Latin America.

Krieder Hall was packed for the event, as the aisles flooded with people who couldn’t find seats. Mike Eberts, the mass communications professor who organizes the science lecture series, introduced Lorena Martinez, an A.L.A.S. (Association of Latin American Students) member, who in turn introduced the retiring Ugalde.

Martinez described Ugalde as one of the most dedicated professors at GCC, alluding to his travels of more than 19 countries in Latin America.

During his time here at

JACC

[JACC, from Page 4]

Jane Pojawa won third place in the profile feature category.

The winning entries were “X: 31 Years of L.A. Punk Rock” and “Carina Crash.”

El Vaquero winners included Claudia Anaya and Corinna Scott, who won a meritorious award in the Enterprise Series division for their coverage of the teacher assault case of spring semester and summer intersession. Fabienne Niederberger took second place for

Glendale, the white-bearded Ugalde has witnessed and documented the historical human struggle of people south of the border, including the Zapatista movement of the 1990s.

The slide show included pictures of landscapes, catholic images, personalities, social conditions, among other visuals of the Latin American culture that were accompanied with an array of Latin music as well as Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, including “Ode to Joy,” which was written for the French Revolution.

The three sabbaticals Ugalde took throughout his career enabled him to continue his photographical documentation of his travels and events of the time.

He documented the arrival of the Comandancia of the EZLN, the commemoration of the 30th year of the fall of Ernesto “Che” Guevara, the visit by Pope John Paul II and the presidential inauguration of Evo Morales in Bolivia among others.

Ugalde has been involved in various campus exhibitions, as well as exhibitions throughout Mexico, Los Angeles and Cuba, among other places, where his photographic documentation has been displayed.

As the lecture continued, Ugalde began to thank everyone and expressed the way he felt in his closing speech before retiring and leaving Glendale college.

“Not even in my wildest dreams did I think I would be alive to be before you today.”

Ugalde joked and said he always thought he would end

her photoillustration depicting “Spring Break Savings.” Jessica Bourse, El Vaquero editor-in-chief won fourth place for her profile feature story about Harold Mack and Richard Kontas, former editor-inchief, won fourth place in the feature photo division for his series of a man being fired out of a cannon at the opening of the Simpson’s ride at Universal Studios.

Jane Pojawa can be reached at Jane_Pojawa@elvaq.com

up blown up in Central America during the 1980s.

Ugalde spoke of his appreciation, gratitude, and love of Glendale College, and his gratitude for having worked and been part of the faculty in Latin American Studies.

He said that he would speak highly of GCC for allowing academic freedom from certain conservative sectors on campus and of the community.

“It’s one of the most humanistic professions,” said Ugalde.

He said that he has always spoken highly of GCC “for it’s commitment to excellence and the colleagues that gave me the confidence and support to teach precisely what I prepared and continuously was able to expand, travel, document, and update through my numerous personal travels.”

Documenting the daily Latin American drama served to enrich and validate the historical analysis, he said.

Ugalde said he spoke highly of

GCC in the numerous presentation and academic conferences which he participated throughout the United States “from the tip of the southern glaciers in America Latina, in the mist of the formidable Andes, in the valleys and jungles of Central America, in the tropics of the Caribbean to the most remote in the Peruvian Andes.”

He talked about embracing all of his colleagues and said he appreciated the maintenance staff, the cafeteria staff, the administration staff, and the college police for the many times they had to jump cable his battery and turn off his car lights.

He also included the art and theater departments, business office, and the bookstore in his appreciation.

“Continue to defend freedom and student activism, theory and practice,” said Ugalde, directing his statement to his colleagues ns in the social science department.

“I leave with the greatest memories working with the

A.L.A.S. I wish the very best to the future of A.L.A.S. and may it continue to provide intellectual discourse, an alternative analysis, and promote international solidarity, which was one the pillars of the Association of Latin American Students,” said Ugalde.

Ugalde said he would greatly miss GCC but is satisfied for the “great humanistic experience.”

With tears in her eyes Joy Hernandez, 20, said, “I think it’s a big loss. He’s taught a lot of my counselors and he’s made such a big impact on the school, on what is taught here, especially on Latin American countries and Latin American people.”.

“He was a very humanistic person. He wanted all of us to know about the situations in Latin America… he’s also very humorous,” said Ana Maria Mejia, former A.L.A.S. member and a UCLA transfer.

Claudia Anaya can be reached at claudia_anaya@elvaq.com

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Big Bad Jazz Band @ GCC

Demands a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T

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rumpets, and saxophones, and trombones, oh my!

There’s nothing like big band music to get one feeling warm as the weather starts to cool around the holiday season, and the Big Bad Jazz Band @ GCC entertained the Glendale College auditorium on Sunday, tapping toes and putting a smile on people’s faces for at least a night.

The band, directed by professional trombonist and Hoover High School music teacher Craig Kupka, played a two-hour set featuring different jazz and swing stylings from Duke Ellington and Miles Davis, as well as pop culture favorites “Respect” and “Over the Rainbow.”

Several songs allowed the 20 plus musicians to showcase their talents as improvisers.

During Todd Dameron’s “Ladybird,” the crowd was introduced to trumpet player Ron Sewer, who was a brilliant soloist all evening.

Sewer was spotlighted on every song that called for multiple solos.

The set list included mostly upbeat songs, really reliving the 1940s and ’50s, including a variation on Ellington’s “C Jam Blues,” which lead trombone player Harry Smallenburg arranged in the key of B and called “Be Jammin” for this show.

Playing John Clayton’s “Nice to Meet You,” almost the entire band was introduced

as each one took solos, including pianist Ricardo Tuttobene and Kupka on saxophone.

Tuttobene was terrific all night, his lightning fast hands gliding over the keys. His playing really shined on Neil Hefti’s “The Kid From Red Bank,” and “Be Jammin.”

The saxophone players were also outstanding, including Puali Serra, who came after intermission from another gig in Los Angeles. Each sax player took over on Miles Davis’ “Dig,” a jumpy joint that allowed Serra, Kupka, Ralph Parillo and Rich Walker to strut their stuff.

The band did tone it down for a few songs, which featured the singing of Beth Bergman.

Besides the up beat “Respect” (which wasn’t quite Aretha Franklinesque, but close), Bergman sang on “How Deep is the Ocean,” “Over the Rainbow,” and “The Look of Love,” each song showcasing her classic sounding voice and providing a breather from the otherwise frenetic set list.

One song that was not in the program was the band’s rendition of “America the Beautiful,” which was the last song played before intermission.

Maybe the highlight of the show, although short on length, the song was brilliantly done, really picking up when the saxophones came in for short fills. It was, in a nutshell, a most pleasant surprise.

Review by Brandon Hensley Photos by Jane Pojawa

Director Craig Kupka’s Big Bad Band @ GCC includes Beth Bergman, vocals; Pauli Serra, alto sax; Rachel Siegal, alto sax, flute; Colin Kupka, tenor sax; Ralph Parillo, tenor sax; Rich Walker, baritone; Ron Sewer, Paul Litteral, Ed Mann and Dayna Richards in the trumpets and flugels section; Harry Smallenburg, Gabino Varela, Bill Pitman and Greg Samuels on trombones; and the rhythm section Zak “Nao” Magami, guitar; Ricardo Tuttobene, piano; Rob Gallegher, bass; Jim Davy, drums; Steve Kim, drums, Jacques Pradel and Adolph Housepan-Trabrizi, percussion; and Arno Stephanian and Julia Chow on piano.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Armenian Cultural Festival Has Modern Edge

By Isiah Reyes

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

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rmenian food, dancing and storytelling were enjoyed by many people at the “ABRINK: Festival of Armenian Literature and Culture,” hosted at Glendale Central Library’s auditorium on Saturday and Sunday.

The ABRINK event was hosted by Abril, a bookstore that specializes in selling Armenian books, music, videos, cards, posters and gifts. Abril celebrated its 30th anniversary by hosting an event-filled weekend which included Armenian literature, theater, film, music, art, dance, performances, workshops, lectures and discussions.

Arno Yeretzian, the event director and producer of ABRINK and manager of Abril Bookstore, explained the importance of the event.

“Basically, we have a big population of Armenians in Glendale, so this is a way for people to come in and get to learn a little more about us,” Yeretzian said. “Everyone’s going to learn something from each segment.”

Beginning on Saturday at 10 a.m., the evening started with an Armenian dance lesson taught by Ari Libaridian, a graduate of Pepperdine University with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts.

“I think [ABRINK] is important because it brings in outsiders and makes them part of the Armenian culture and it lets them learn more about it,” Libaridian said.

“You only hear so much from people and you don’t know what it’s actually about, but it’s a huge culture with a lot to give to society.”

“Dancing is our way of telling our story and it keeps our culture going and going,” Libaridian said.

Yeretzian then gave an introduction after the dancing segment. He explained that the name Abril was first coined in 1977 as the name of the first magazine in Los Angeles to be written in Armenian.

“Along with the name came the image of the Abril tree and the first issue of ‘Abril’ came out in April of 1977,” Yeretzian said. “The magazine was a great success. The subscriptions came flowing in. With my father, Harut, being the editor, he wrote most of the articles and prepared the layout. ‘Abril’ was published in a tiny office on Sunset.”

“The Yeretzian brothers decided that it would be more worthwhile to the efforts to purchase their own press, rather than send their magazine out to printing,” Yeretzian continued.

“And so, towards the end of 1977, they moved into a larger building out on Santa Monica Boulevard and Abril Printing was born.”

Then, after the introduction of the Abril Bookstore by Yeretzian, actress and playwright Lory Tatoulian began her “Everything you need to know about Armenians” lecture, which was wrapped in comedy and wit.

Tatoulian has performed her comedic one-woman shows across the United States, which include “Autosapiens,” “Sketched,” and “Sitting Twisted, Talking Straight,” which had its off-Broadway debut in 2003.

As Tatoulian took the stage, she began by saying, “[Performing] this is quite different for me because I’m always doing a character.

So for the past two months, I’ve stuffed my brain with 10,000 years of Armenian history and now I’m going to have a cathartic moment and just Lory Tatoulian spew it all over you, okay?”

She continued her act by teaching some Armenian words, culture, history, food and more — albeit in her own fashion.

The day continued on with a tribute to Hovhannes Toumanian, who is regarded as “The Poet of All Armenians.” Three of his folk tales, “The End of Evil,” “The Death of Kikos” and “One Drop of Honey” were brought to life by Arena Productions, a multicultural community group.

Then Gor Mkitarian, lead guitarist of the rock band Lavi Eli,

“I’ve stuffed my brain with 10,000 years of Armenian history and now I’m going to have a cathartic moment and just spew it all over you, okay?”

—

provided a sing-a-long for some Armenian folk songs. Mkitarian launched his solo career in 2001 and has released six albums since.

Afterwards, Ouhi Uluhogian, a story teller and performance artist, performed a movie screening of “The Human Comedy,” a novel written by William Saroyan, who was born in Fresno in 1908.

In 1966, Saroyan founded the William Saroyan Foundation for the preservation of his literary archives.

As the evening passed by, the “Writing from Fresno” segment took stage and the two ArmenianAmerican authors from Fresno, Mark Arax and Aris Janigian, talked about how the city of Fresno inspired them to write.

In addition to the Fresno segment, Janice Stevens and Pat Hunter, author and illustrator of “William Sorayan: Places in Time,” shared their thoughts on Fresno and how it inspired Saroyan to write.

Saturday ended with “The Evening Hour,” a play by writer Aram Saroyan, son of William Saroyan.

The first act of the play took place in an apartment in London in the summer of 1966, and then 30 years later in the second act. It is about a father who has trouble parenting his two hippie kids.

Aram Saroyan was awarded the 2008 William Carlos Williams Award for his latest book, “Complete Minimal Poems,” a complete anthology of his poetry of the ’60s.

On Sunday, the festivities continued by starting the day off with the “Armenian Miniature Art Workshop,” presented by Seeroon Yeretzian, the mother of Abril Bookstore owner Aron Yeretzian.

Yeretzian’s paintings mostly depict Christian subjects. In her art workshop, she explained the meaning of symbols, such as the pomegranate and the peacock, giving the opportunity for others to paint their own ornate letter.

Yeretzian described how she first got started with painting.

“Illuminated manuscripts, it’s the story of Christ in the Bible,” Yeretzian explained. “I started studying the old art from the 7th Century to the inventing of print. These were manually done paintings. When I started doing that, I wanted to bring whatever is Christian into my paintings. I do cards every year; I also do large paintings about homeless people, crucified women, and social paintings.”

“I have even done the Latin alphabet in Armenian style,” Yeretzian said. “All cultures that are Christian and that have painted the Bible by hand have decorated ornate initials.”

Following the art workshop was “Armenian Folklore, Alive!” The age-old Armenian folklore was presented by Alidz Agbabian, a storyteller and author who specializes in Armenian and Middle Eastern traditions.

Soon afterwards, Sarkis Balmanoukian presented the “Armenian Architecture”

segment which focused on the architectural wonders of Armenia.

Balmanoukian is an architect and scholar of Armenian architecture.

As the day moved forward, Lory Bedikian (poet and columnist), Lilly Thomassian (playwright), Vahe Berberian (playwright and novelist), Garrnik Galstian (poet and critic) and Arpi Sarafian (who teaches English language and literature at Cal State L.A.) all presented an author panel discussion, answering the question as to what defines a piece of writing as American, Armenian or English literature and whether it is language, ethnicity, place of origin, or subject matter that defines it.

Following that segment, “The Daredevils of Sassoun,” an epic story consisting of four acts took stage. Performed by Peter Cowe and Anahid Halabi, the story was handed down in the same manner it has been passed down for 11 centuries. Cowe is the Naregatsi professor of Armenian language and culture at UCLA and Halabi is a founding member of the Lark Musical Society.

The ABRINK event finally came to a close on Sunday night with the “Piano Works of Armenian Composers” segment presented by Armenian composer Vatche Mankerian.

On the note of having ABRINK next year, Yeretzian commented, “Yeah, I would like to. It depends on how this event goes.”

Isiah Reyes can be reached at isiah_reyes@elvaq.com

Photo by Allan Beglarian

Ari Libaridian, a choreographer/dancer with Hamazkayin Nairi Dance Group, teaches folkloric dance during the ABRINK festival, a celebration of Armenian literature and culture, at the Glendale public library.

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Film

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Vampire Romance Enters the‘Twilight’ Zone

By Ani Khashadoorian EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

Caution: Spoilers

E

ver fallen in love with someone you shouldn’t have fallen in love with?

They probably spurned your natural emotions (check), made you feel like dirt (check) and if you presumably start a commotion, you’ll run the risk of losing them (check).

As the Buzzcocks very well described how it felt to be in love with someone you shouldn’t have fallen in love with, one wonders why the famous song was not included on the “Twilight” soundtrack, since the entire movie deals with a forbidden romance between an immortal teen vampire and a human girl.

The latest cultural phenomenon known as “Twilight” is directly driven from the book saga of the same name. Director Catherine Hardwicke is best known for her work on “Thirteen” and “Lords of Dogtown.” Fans have described her style of filming as being documentary like, which “Twilight” does feel like at times – but it works splendidly.

“Twilight” focuses on the

relationship between sexy vampire Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) and stunningly beautiful, but not aware of it, Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart).

Bella has just moved to Forks, Washington to live with her father Charlie (Billy Burke) since her mother Renee (Sarah Clarke) is now trekking across the country with her new husband.

Although Bella has been to Forks before, she stopped visiting years ago and has arrived smack dab in the middle of the semester.

The local boys swoon over her, but one mysterious student (Pattinson) catches Bella’s eye.

As she is given run over details by a gossipy friend at the lunch table, she notices a family of inhumanely beautiful people walking in. This is the Cullen family, comprised of Rosalie (Nikki Reed), Alice (Ashley Greene), Jasper (Jackson Rathbone) and Emmett (Kellan Lutz). Then, in dramatic fashion, comes in Edward. Bella locks eyes with him…and she is smitten.

Later on, it turns out Bella and Edward have biology class together, but Edward’s behavior is painful to watch. It seems like he’s restraining himself from being near Bella, as if he is repulsed by

her. Bella’s feelings are hurt and the two avoid each other until a wild series of events pit them both together and they admit they’ve fallen in love.

The kicker?

Bella is in love with him due to his beauty and Edward is in love with her due to the smell of her blood; Edward was once a normal vampire, who fed on humans, but has now adopted an animal-only diet; however, Bella’s blood sings to him and causes The vampire romance “Twilight” bites off more than it can chew. a near demonic blood lust. Although this could turn really sexy, the movie appears like he’s trying to teach the lamb.”

Also in the mix are Edward’s the audience “Brooding 101.” keeps to a chaste level.

Nonetheless, it’s the small violent and quick gestures, like Bella and Edward spend every waking moment together until gags here and there that make the when he drags Bella by the arm further into the forest to prove a trio of vampire baddies start movie tolerable.

The cinematography is lush he is a monster. The viewer is killing people in Forks, and one of them wants Bella for dinner. in showing the landscapes and left wondering how this could be The movie is carried by the panoramas of the muddy, wet considered romantic at any rate, since jerking someone’s hand minor characters, providing state that is Washington. comedic relief.

Stewart’s Music is well-placed isn’t normally something you’d performance shines in some throughout the movie, although do when trying to woo them.

In what I assumed was scenes and is extremely lackluster a piano sequence garnered lots of supposed to be a really pivotal in other. Pattinson has a good thing unintended laughs. going, although it sometimes The movie stays true to the scene, where Edward shows Bella book series, and “Team Edward” what he looks like under the sun fans will not be disappointed. If (he glitters instead of dying), the you can get hordes of middle- dialogue went something like aged women and their 12-year-old this: Edward screams, “This is daughters into the movie theater of Hollywood ringing. the skin of a killer!”, while the without arguing, you’ve made Besides “Decode,” horrible special effects make it a smooth transition; however, Paramore also contributed appear like his face is covered in those who haven’t read the books the song “I Caught Myself” shimmering acne. probably wouldn’t understand to the soundtrack. Also on the Bella responds by saying, what was going on since much of film’s sound track are bands “You’re beautiful.” the back story isn’t given.

Muse, Linkin Park, and Iron The entire audience started One of the glaringly obvious & Wine. laughing at this point. problems in the movie is the The “Twilight” soundtrack Am I supposed to take this fact that Edward’s behavior is has rocketed to the top of seriously?

“Twilight” may be somewhat disturbing but Bella the Billboard charts, hitting classified as a dramatic romance, feeds into it. number one. Having sold but it has fallen into the category From watching Bella sleeping more than 165,000 copies, the of unintentional comedy and it at night (by breaking in through soundtrack’s popularity has sure does bite. her second story window) to translated onto the big screen, “Twilight” runs at 122 following her around when as “Twilight” has grossed minutes and is rated PG-13 for she’s out with friends shopping, more than $70 million dollars some violence and a scene of Edward is best described when on opening weekend. Summit sensuality. the teen girl a few rows ahead of Entertainment has announced My rating: 2 and a half stars me yelled out, “Creep!” plans to move forward with out of five.

We normally associate the sequel “New Moon.” behavior like Edward’s with sociopath stalkers, but in Ani Khashadoorian can be reached at ani_khashadoorian@elvaq.com “Twilight,” everything is a-okay Ani Khashadoorian can be reached at ani_khashadoorian@elvaq.com since the “lion fell in love with

Paramore Rocks Teen Audiences

By Ani Khashadoorian EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

M

ove over, Jonas Brothers – the hottest band on the “Twilight” soundtrack, Paramore, threw an outdoor mini-concert outside of the Hollywood and Highland Hot Topic on Nov. 18, performing songs from the movie sound rack.

“Twilight” cast members Nikki Reed and Kristen Stewart presented the band on stage as excited fans screamed relentlessly. Also in attendance were cast members Kellan Lutz, Taylor Lautner, Ashley Greene and Jackson Rathbone.

Songs that were performed included previous hit “Misery

Business” and new song “Decode,” exclusively from the soundtrack.

After Paramore’s performance, titled “The Lost Show,” the movie cast came onto the stage and participated in a question and answer session with the energetic fans.

The screaming didn’t stop as Paramore returned and did an autographing session along with the movie cast.

“The Lost Show was absolutely amazing. I’ve seen Paramore perform plenty before and this show had just as much energy as any other and it was so much fun.

They are awesome performers!” said fan Catharine Acurso, 19.

As the stars and band members departed, the resounding screams of hundreds of fans left the streets

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

‘Fearless,’ a First-Rate Second Effort by Taylor Swift

By Ani Khashadoorian EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

N

owadays in the music industry, the majority of songs either fall into two categories — horrible pseudo cover bands with three word names who try to imitate the heyday of the ’80s metal movement or rappers who

keep on writing about their life in the streets as dealers (except it gets repetitive the third or fourth time), but when you find yourself listening to a song titled “Love Story” at 2 a.m. during the weekend, only two possibilities come to mind: Either you need to lay off the sappy songs and get over your

Taylor Swift’s new album is not to be missed.

last break up (they just really weren’t into you) or it’s a damn good song.

Pennsylvania-born country pop star Taylor Swift’s sophomore album, “Fearless,” is the latter — extraordinarily damn good and infectiously catchy.

From music label Big Machine Records, Swift’s latest album was released on Nov. 11. Having debuted at number one across the music charts, “Fearless” has already moved 619,000 plus copies.

Swift, 18, has had her fair share of lost and found love, and “Fearless” reflects that. From the universally relatable “Forever and Always” to the break up ballads “White Horse” and “You’re Not Sorry”, Swift gets her point across simply.

She shouldn’t need to cry any more tears on her guitar; Swift has a gift. The vocals are full of emotion and go along perfectly with the melodies. Its almost as if

Swift’s music is the very standard the majority of the industry tries to imitate but fails at.

“Love Story” is arguably the best song on the record. Detailing a love affair like Romeo and Juliet’s, Swift stand outs out with this song - you just can’t stop listening to it.

“You Belong With Me” shows Swift’s brash honesty — “She wears short skirts, I wear T-shirts/ She’s cheer captain, and I’m on the bleachers.”

“Hey Stephen” is Swift’s personal song about an unrequited love who was named (you guessed it) Stephen. Swift has no problem naming names, as she sings about her best friend Abigail in the coming of age “Fifteen.”

“Breathe” and “The Way I Loved You” are collaborations on the album, the first being with Colbie Caillat and the latter with John Rich.

“Change” is the only forgettable song on the album. It

just sounds like filler and quite frankly, has no appeal.

Whatever Swift lives, Swift writes — and the material turns out to be amazing music that doesn’t hole her into the just country category. Her vocal chops shine through this album.

Ladies and gentlemen, give “Fearless” a chance. At the very least, you will have a catchy CD to listen to when driving, and guys can impress chicks with their “sensitivity” (and learn a lesson or two from Swift’s songs).

Retail Price: $9.99 Availability: Retail stores and online Genre: Country Label: Big Machine Records My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

 Ani Khashadoorian can be reached at ani_khashadoorian@elvaq.com

‘Bestia Sonika:’ Dance to the Language of the Beast

By Fabiola Prieto

EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER

D

escribing Mezklah’s music would be like describing Los Angeles to someone who has never been here — extensive and possibly inaccurate. Just as the city has a convergence of so many cultures, this group brings together the rhythms of various genres, and to get the drift of exactly what it is, one must consider each element.

Though I could talk for hours about this band’s style, this review is based only on their latest project for the sake of keeping the story a reasonable length.

Originally a duo comprised of Angel Garcia and Greg Hernandez, Mezklah has brought two new members to create their latest project, bassist Juan Carlos Ramirez and drummer Matias Pizarro.

As its purposely misspelled name implies — “mezcla” is the Spanish word for “mixture” — this Los Angeles-based alternative band is reluctant to fall into any kind category; for better or for worse, they’ve put together a second mishmash.

Mezklah’s “Bestia Sonika (The Sonic Beast)” is a

compilation of four tracks that may be found under the category of world music. This EP, released in late October, combines dub reggae, rock, cumbia, and tribal electronica with Spanish lyrics and sometimes gibberish.

The first song, “Bestia (The Beast),” is a “cumbia sonidera,” a type of Mexican cumbia that is characterized for bringing Amerindian tribal sounds with modern electronic rhythms and textures.

The lyrics, rather than telling a story or attempting to bring about feelings, take you to the world of “the beast” in which the lives of mystical creatures such as prophets, sorcerers, jackals, wolf-men and goddesses revolve around cumbia and booze.

For its beat and theme, this song is great for letting go of all worries and certainly to enhance the effects of recreational drugs.

However, its main chorus “La vallena va llena” (the whale is full) is just tossed out there with no purpose, other than having the second and fourth word rhyme.

There’s no apparent relation of this phrase with the rest of the song.

“Poderosa (Powerful [female])” is the second song,

and the most coherent of the four.

With reggae’s one-drop rhythm, it alludes to the power of women’s charm, strength and sensuality and its effect on men. The gradual additions of electronic sounds give the calm reggae an enthralling ending.

The third song, “Curandera (Healer [female])” showcases the bands tribal tendencies in which prevalent drums and synthesizers embellish the otherwise unintelligible lyrics about superstitious practices.

“Chango Araña (Spider Monkey),” is a new version of one of the songs from their first album. It’s about the band’s vocalist and writer, Garcia, depicting his persona as a slippery, non-stopping spider monkey. This remake replaces the original electronic sounds in their first version with acoustic instruments. It’s slightly faster and accentuates the typical celebration mood of Latin Music.

To say that Los Angeles is a great city because of its diversity, means having to ignore the suffering that gang conflicts, narcotics, and poverty has caused to the city. To give this music the highest rating, I would have to

Mezklah takes pride in primal tendencies.

base it only on its innovation and danceable rhythms and ignore the mess of their lyrics.

Though I enjoyed each of the nearly 50 times I listened to each track, I couldn’t understand about half of what they where saying.

Some of it was dialect, but some just seemed like random words thrown together in a “mezcla.”

My rating: 2 out of 5 stars.

 This EP can bought through cdbaby.com for $5 and Target for $10.95. http://www.myspace.com/ mezklah Fabiola Prieto can be reached at fabiola_prieto@elvaq.com

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

13

SPORTS

Lady Vaqs Lose to Bakersfield in Star’s Finale

By Ken Juaner Malate EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER/ PHOTOGRAPHER

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ven with a strong defensive showing, Glendale’s Lady Vaqueros lost a valiantly fought game against Bakersfield College (3-1) on Nov. 14 in their last home game of the season.

The night started with a rousing introduction of the sophomore players who would be playing their final home game. These players included team captain and scoring leader Aya Nakano, assists leader Nicole Diller, libero Anne Figueroa and middle blocker Isabelle Carter.

After being down 2-0 after the second set, Glendale showed life as they rallied to score the first 9 points of the third set. They went on to win the third set and

it seemed like momentum was starting to shift their way.

But, as the game went on, the same problems and issues that have plagued the team in the past kept haunting them. The same errors and missed serves kept on repeating over and over again.

“I don’t want to walk out of this completely negative. I did see some good things, I saw more fight in them,” said Coach Yvette Ybarra. “But it just goes back to our errors. We make the wrong errors at the wrong time. I think our biggest problem is that we don’t stay focused throughout the whole game.”

One good aspect of the night’s game was the incredible defense that the Lady Vaqs put on.

“I was very happy with our defense. We were very scrappy, that made it harder for the other

team [Bakersfield] to put down balls that would normally be easy for them,” said Ybarra.

As a norm for all other games Glendale has played, Aya Nakano once again led the team in kills. Nakano put down 19 kills against Bakersfield. Instead of commenting about the night’s game, Nakano spoke about her love for the game and her attitude toward it.

“I’m the kind of person that likes to have fun and I really love to win,” said Nakano. “I just want to keep playing volleyball and to keep playing with my team.”

Losing their star player would certainly put a dent in Glendale’s offensive power. We can all just sit and watch to see if ever there will be another player like Nakano on the team.

After the game, most of the

Season Ender Disappoints

By Ken Juaner Malate EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER/ PHOTOGRAPHER

“I

like it when my defense proves me wrong,” said head coach John Rome even after a 14-31 loss against Pasadena City College, Nov. 15. The Vaqueros’ final game of the season set their record at 3-7.

At the end of the first half, it was a tightly contested game at 7-7 a piece.

Unlike the past few games the Vaqs have played where the defense was non-existent, this time out defense as the only reason why this game wasn’t a complete blowout.

Glendale’s defense allowed 449 total yards, 298 coming from the Lancers’ ground game. The Lancers had one player run for more than 100 yards, and another who ran for 4 touchdowns. The Vaqs shut down the Lancers’ passing game, allowing them 0 touchdowns from the air.

Quarterback D.E. Martinez completed 15 of 19 passes for 178 yards. Martinez threw 2 touchdowns during the game.

Michael Harrison and Jason McNeil both led the team with 3 catches each.

Glendale had no rushing touchdowns for the game. Only one player, freshman halfback Lavell Peterson, ran for 108 yards on 9 carries averaging 12 yardsper-run. Peterson was spectacular in the ground game. In one play, he ran the ball downfield, dancing his way around two defenders and crossing them up making them look absolutely foolish.

Unfortunately, Peterson went down with an injury late in the first half. He later commented that he had a sprained MCL and will not play the rest of the game.

With the leading rusher out of the game, it was up to the rest of the team to step up and take the game in their hands. No one responded.

In the beginning of the second half, tied at 7-7, it was the Lancers who drew first blood with a 29yard field goal that put them up 10-7. Martinez answered back with an impressive 37-yard pass to Josh Stangby making it a 10-14 game, that would be the last score Glendale would make for the rest of the game, and the season.

Perhaps, the biggest error in the game came when a Glendale lineman committed a personal foul resulting in a 15-yard penalty causing them to punt the ball late in the third where they were only down by three points.

The next few drives were a mix and match of turnovers and failed drives by the offense.

The Vaqueros only converted 6-13 third downs. Glendale punted the ball four times the entire game.

Along with the failed drives, Glendale fumbled the ball twice. Both were recovered by the opposing team.

Pasadena managed to score three more touchdown runs, virtually ending the game.

“I was impressed with our defense they rallied and proved me wrong, they played outstanding football,” said Rome. “I don’t think our offense necessarily gave them the support that would have indicative to a better score.”

Glendale Vaqueros ended their season at 3-7. But Glendale fans shouldn’t fret for the next season holds much excitement for the team. The fact is that this year’s team was a young group, with so many talented freshmen.

The leading rushers Peterson and Youngblood will be coming back for their sophomore year, ensuring more offensive highlights for the team.

Ken Juaner Malate can be reached at ken_malate@elvaq.com

focus went back to the players who will be departing the team.

As they walked out with bouquets of flowers tightly grasped in their arms, they bade farewell to the gym they have played in for the past two years.

“It’s a hard bunch to watch go;

I’ve kind of seen them grow,” said Ybarra. “I’ve been with them, I’ve watched them mature…. It’s like my kids are going away.”

[I still need the score for Ken Juaner Malate can be reached at ken_malate@elvaq.com

Lady Vaqs Not Ready for Lasers

By Ross Coleman

EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR

“W

e just weren’t ready,” said a visibly frustrated head coach Monica Hang, after a 71-57 beat down

by Irvine Valley College at Glendale’s Verdugo Gym Friday night.

The game was a tale of two halves.

After a slow start, the Lady Vaqs jumped all over the visiting Lasers, forcing a time out to regroup. With 9:20 left in the first half, the Lady Vaqs led 16-5.

However, that was when things began to turn away from the Vaqs. Irvine Valley was able to claw back into the game through offensive rebounding, forcing many Lady Vaq turnovers.

Throw in early foul trouble for leading scorer, freshman Rachel Estrella, and it was difficult for the Lady Vaqs to get shots up. Sophomore Paola Gupilan and freshman Amanda Quesada stepped up in place of Estrella, who had been averaging over 17 points per game.

After Estrella picked up her third foul of the first half, Irvine Valley finished on a 2312 run to close out the half-tied

with the Lady Vaqs 28-28.

Any hopes that half time would cool the hot shooting Lasers was soon forgotten when they Lady Vaqs quickly gave up a 12-2 run in the first five minutes of the second half. The Lady Vaqs continued to turn the ball over and had a difficult time getting good shots.

Estrella picked up her fourth foul early in the second half and was forced to sit a majority of the game. When she finally did come back in to play, it became apparent that Estrella was the missing element that the Lady Vaqs needed.

The Lady Vaqs pulled to within 11 with eight minutes remaining in the game, but that was the closest they would get.

“It was not really a good game,” said Hang. “We got outplayed, out hustled; they wanted it more. We didn’t fight, we couldn’t make a shot, and we just played poorly.”

The Lady Vaqs are back in action Saturday at home when they take on Chaffey College at 5:30 p.m.

Ross Coleman can be reached at Ross_Coleman@elvaq.com

Dianetics: the Evolution of a Science by L. Ron Hubbard

Your first book on the applied philosophy which shows you the road to a better life with fewer problems.

Just get it. Read it and use it.

Contact: Dori Talevi

(818) 247-9822

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Wednesday, November 26 , 2008

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SPORTS COLUMN

The One Big Thing: Hot Stove Season in L.A.

By Ross Coleman

EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR

H

ot stove season is upon us once again, and with the success of the Los Angeles-based baseball teams this past year, it seems like the perfect time for both the Dodgers and the Angels to build for future success.

The Dodgers came into last season with Yankee legend Joe Torre running the ship. However, his impact was not fully realized until a trade deadline move that brought disgruntled and controversial former Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez to the Big Blue. Ramirez’s impact was felt almost immediately.

In 53 games as a member of the Dodgers, Ramirez batted .396 with 17 homeruns and 53 RBI. Those numbers were staggering enough to not only thrust the Dodgers into the thick of the playoffs, but also to get them into the National League Championship Series for the first time since 1988.

Ramirez also brought out the best in many of the Dodgers younger players.

Now Ramirez, along with 14-game winner Derek Lowe, fan favorite shortstop Rafael Furcal, and former pitching ace Brad Penny, are all free agents available to sign with any team they want. Throw in a bevy of talent available on the open market the only question is, what are the moves the Dodgers should make?

They have already been trying to sign the 36-year-old Ramirez to one of the richest contracts in

baseball history, as far as dollars per year. However, Ramirez is looking for a six-year contract, while the Dodgers are offering three to four years.

I think the deal, whatever it is, makes sense for both sides.

The Dodgers need a slugger and Ramirez brought in such a baseball fever like L.A. has not seen since Fernando-mania in the ’80s.

The other move that makes sense for the Dodgers is stud pitcher CC Sabathia. Sabathia was another trade deadline player who led his team to the playoffs.

Sabathia is a Bay Area native and has expressed interest in returning to California. He has also said he prefers to go to a National League team, so that points to either the Dodgers or the Giants.

The Yankees have already offered Sabathia a six-year $140million contract.

It would be difficult for any team if they decided to get into a bidding war with the Yankees, but the Dodgers have a rare window of opportunity to win. There is enough young talent on the team to compete for a championship.

Management just needs to show more willingness.

Now on the American League side of things, down in Southern L.A., also called Orange County, the Angels have quietly become one of the top three organizations in all of baseball.

Former Dodger player Mike Scioscia has been the manager of the Angels since 1999. He is easily one of the longest tenured managers in the majors, and he has proven that he is also

one of the best.

Scioscia led a young Angels team to the first World Series in franchise history in 2002. Since then, the Angels have won four of the last six American League East crowns.

The young “Halos” of 2002 have grown up, and for the most part, moved on. Star pitcher John Lackey, utility man Chone Figgins, super-closer Francisco “K-Rod” Rodriguez, setup man Scot Shields, and franchise great Garret Anderson were the only contributors from 2002 to play on the 2008 version of the Angels.

This year K-Rod shattered the all-time saves record for one season of 57 set by Bobby Thigpen in 1990. K-Rod finished with 62 saves.

However, K-Rod also played his final season for the Angels this year. Management decided it was best to let K-Rod go to another team instead of paying what would likely be a $75 million contract.

The reason they wanted to

save that money was for the team’s number one off-season priority, Mark Teixeira. Tex, as Teixeira is known, was acquired by the Angels before the trade deadline and had a similar impact as Ramirez did for the Dodgers.

Tex is the big batter that the Angels have needed for about the last three seasons. He gets on base a lot and drives in a lot of runs. He is a great compliment to the middle of the Angels lineup, Vladimir Guerrero and Torri Hunter.

The Angels have not made an offer yet to Tex because they are waiting to give him a “knockout offer” and basically blow all of his other offers away. If they can sign Tex and play with him for an entire season, it is easy to believe that the Angels could finish with the best record in baseball for a second straight season.

However, there are a few more question marks around the team.

Second baseman Howie Kendrick completely disappeared in the playoffs and was a major reason

they were unable to get past the Rex Sox. The closer role will ultimately go to Shields, who has been a great player for the Halos for a long time. But Shields is not KRod. Hands down. There will be a lot of frustration there this year.

Finally, there are a few younger players from the minor leagues that could potentially play big roles for the Halos this year. Shortstop Brandon Wood has been compared to Cal Ripken Jr. for almost his entire life but has failed to live up to expectations so far. Then again, he is only 23 and needs more at-bats to show what type of commodity he is.

Both the Dodgers and the Angels have their work cut out for them over the next few months, and if there is anything I have learned in all of my years following baseball, it’s that spring training is always closer that you think it is.

Ross Coleman can be reached at Ross_Coleman@elvaq.com

Vaquero Sports Summaries Scores Men’s and Women’s Cross Country

Women’s Soccer:

Nov. 22: State Championship Meet Men — finished seventh in team results Women — finished second in team results

Nov. 4: tied L.A. Valley College 0-0 Nov. 7: defeated College of the Canyons 1-0 Nov. 11: lost to L.A. Pierce College 3-0

Women’s Volleyball:

Football:

Nov. 7: defeated Citrus College 3-2 Nov. 14: lost to Bakersfield College 3-1 Nov. 18: defeated West L.A. College 3-0 Nov. 20: defeated Santa Monica College 3-2

Nov. 15: lost to Pasadena College 31-14

Men’s Soccer:

Men’s Basketball:

Nov. 11 lost to Citrus College 2-1 Nov. 14: defeated Mission College Forfeit

Nov. 15: lost to San Diego Mesa College 99-87 Nov. 19: defeated L.A. Harbor College 84-71

Women’s Basketball:: Nov. 21: lost to Irvine Valley College 71-57 Nov. 22: defeated Long Beach College 54-32

Upcoming Events Women’s Basketball: Saturday: vs. Chaffey College at GCC

5:30 p.m.

Dec. 5-7: at Hartnell Classic Tournament

Men’s Basketball: Dec. 5-7: at Antelope Valley College

Tournament

For more information visit: www.glendale.edu/athletics/ Controversial outfielder Manny Ramirez is a major asset for the Dodgers.

www.elvaq.com

Wednesday, November 26 , 2008

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Calendar On Campus information Thanksgiving Holiday — There will be no classes Thursday through Saturday due to the Thanksgiving Holiday. Offices will also be closed.

Winter 2009 — Open registration for the Winter 2009 session will continue through Dec. 22.

Health Center — Flu shots are still available in the Health Center. $15 for students and $25 for staff. Cash only. The Health Center hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5909.

events Elections — The ASGCC Spring Elections will be held on Dec. 3

and Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 5 to 9:30 p.m. in Plaza Vaquero.

Nutrition and Healthy Cooking Program — Presented by Club Yoga. Tuesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in LR 101. All are welcome.

For more information, email club.yoga.gcc@gmail.com or call (818) 331-9394.

Transfer Center — A Cal State Los Angeles representative will be in the Transfer Center Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to answer questions. All are welcome.

Winter Choral Concert- A Winter Choral Concert will be held in the Glendale Community College Auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. The program features the College Choir, Pops Ensemble and Opera Vignettes. The vocal groups will perform an eclectic mix of classical, standards, pop

and holiday music. Admission is $7 general and $5 for students and seniors. The box office will open one half hour before the concert.

Call 818-240-1000, ext. 5660 for more information.

Holiday Ceramics — The Holiday Ceramics Sale, an annual fundraising event for the Glendale Community College Ceramics Department, will be held Saturday, Dec. 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. in the J. W. Smith Student Center room 212. Proceeds from the sale go toward equipment and supplies for the department and to fund guest lecturers and workshops for the GCC Ceramic Studio.

clubs Faculty and Student Book Club — The club will be discussing “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Woo” by Junot Diaz. Dec. 4 from noon to 1 p.m. in AD 217.

Robotics Club— Club meetings are held every Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in AT 211.

Culinary Arts Club — Club meetings are every Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. in LR 101.

Art History Club — Club meetings are every Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. in AD 243. Meetings will include field trips, movies, and guest speakers.

Club Yoga — Mondays from 3 to 4 p.m. in AT 232 and Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. in SN 102.

All are welcome to attend.

V.O.I.C.E.S. — Club meetings are every Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. in LB 210.

Honors Biology Club — Club meetings are every Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. in CR 137. Meetings will include information

about future health careers as well as guess speakers. For more information contact the club at Honorsbiologyclub@yahoo.com.

P.C.O. — The Philippine Cultural Organization meetings are every Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. in CS 177. All are welcome.

exhibitions “Endless Summer” — Curator Alex Israel presents an exhibition featuring the works of more than 20 different artists. The works are a display of art, fashion design, and ephemera that aims its focus at regional Southern California.

Now through Jan. 24. Art Gallery hours are Thursdays through Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m.

Admission is free. For more information, visit www.glendale. edu/artgallery or call (818) 2401000, ext. 5663.

Around Town events Universal Studios Grinchmas Celebration — Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza North Hollywood.

Celebrate the holiday season Dr.Seuss-style with the lovable Mr. Grinch, Cindy-Lou and all the Whos of Whoville and get your picture taken with the Grinch himself. The event will take place along side the original sets of the film “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Now through Dec. 31. Studio hours vary. General admission is $67 and $57 for children under 48 inches. For information, visit www.universalstudioshollywood.com or call (800) 864-8377.

Holiday of Hope Tree Lighting — Hollywood and Highland Center, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. A free concert by David Archuleta caps Hollywood & Highland’s annual tree-lighting ceremony, which this year benefits One Heartland, an organization that works to improve the lives of children impacted by HIV and AIDS. Families are invited to make a donation by sponsoring of one of the 30,000 lights on the

35-foot holiday tree in the central courtyard. Dec. 6 starting at 6 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, visit www.hollywoodandhighland.com.

Celebration of Kwanzaa — California Lutheran University, 60 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks.

California Lutheran University’s one-day celebration will include a ceremony performed by university students, authentic African and African American food, gospel music, dances, arts, and crafts Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission is free. For more information, visit www.callutheran. edu or call (805) 493-3323.

ARA Project Art Show and Silent Auction — Villa del Sol d’Oro, 200 N. Michillinda Ave., Pasadena. Dozens of painters, sculptors, photographers, fine jewelers and others will have their work on display and available for purchase. Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Admission is free and 25 percent of sales will benefit impoverished and orphaned children in Armenia. For more information, visit www.armeniancalendar.com or call (626) 792-4479.

Holiday Look in — Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. The 41st annual Holiday Look In Home Tour and Boutique will showcase the works of 25 different artists and crafts-persons. The displays will include jewelry, handbags, clothing, stationary, interior design accessories and food. Vendors will donate 25 percent of earnings to the Women’s Committee. Dec. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m. Admission prices range from $30 to $35. For more information, call (626) 793-7172.

exhibitions A Story of Photography: The Marjorie and Leonard Vernon Collection — Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. The exhibition features over seventy seminal photographs by six different artists. Now through Feb. 1. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for students with I.D. Children 17 and under are free. Museum hours vary. For more information, visit www.lacma.org or call (323) 857-6000.

The Belles Heures of the Duke of Berry — The Getty, 1200 Getty

Center Drive, Los Angeles. This exhibition presents more than 80 miniatures from the Belles Heures of the Duke of Berry, one of the supreme artistic treasures of French medieval manuscript illumination. Now through Feb. 8.

Admission is free and parking is $10 per car. Museum hours vary.

For more information, visit www. getty.edu or call (310) 440-7300.

Seeing Greene and Greene: Architecture in Photographs — Pasadena Museum of California Art, 490 E. Union St., Pasadena.

This exhibition is conceived as a different take on the architectural work of Henry Greene and Charles Greene. Now through Jan. 4. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for students. Hours vary.

For information, visit www.pmcaonline.org or call (626) 5683665.

theater “The Nutcracker” — Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd, presented by Media City Ballet. A fantasy ballet suitable for both adults and children. Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Students and senior citizens may purchase discounted

tickets at the box office with valid photo I.D. For more information, visit www.alextheatre.org or call (818) 243-2539.

wellness Meditations for a Happy Life — Mission Street Yoga, 1017 Mission St., South Pasadena.

The Kadampa Meditation Center California presents meditation classes. Tuesdays from 7:45 to 9:15 p.m. with instructor Keli Vaughn. Admission is $12 per class. For more information, visit www.meditateinla.org.

Free Health Clinic — Open Tuesdays 6 to 8:30 p.m. On a first-come, first-served basis.

Located at 134 N. Kenwood St. Third floor, room 330. For more information visit www.glendaleclinic.org or call (818) 243-2105, ext. 202.

Free Yoga in the Park— Runyon Canyon Park, 2000 Fuller Drive, Los Angeles. Free yoga lessons every Tuesday and Thursday at 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (323) 666-5046.

Compiled by Tina Hagopian

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

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VAQUERO VIEWS

‘Endless Summer’ Celebrates SoCal — Photos by Ismael Reyes The “Endless Summer” exhibit at the art gallery is a celebration of socalled Southern California culture, exploring stereotypes and changing times.

John Van Hamersveld’s piece, “The Endless Summer,” top, is a limited edition hand-pulled silk screen designed for the 1964 film “The Endless Summer.”

Exhibit artists, below top, were among visitors to the gallery opening on Saturday, discussing the inspiration behind their pieces. Tiiu Leek and Lonnie Israel consider the “Sterling Ruby,” a ceramic piece, below bottom.