El Vaquero Glendale College
BAT CHILD FOUND ON CAMPUS! Photo by Ismael Reyes
His giant eyes see in the dark and his ears are better than radar, say scientists. See story, pages 8-9. www.elvaq.com
Volume 92 Number 3 WEDNESDAY October 17, 2007
In This Issue
Unity Fest
Film Review
Women’s Soccer
Features............7-10
Glendale celebrates
‘Across the Universe’
Entertainment......11
cultural diversity.
wows audience.
Lady Vaqueros win game against Valley.
Page 4
Page 11
News...................2-6
Sports..............12-14 Calendar.............15
Page 13
Photo by Robert Radich
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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NEWS
Governor Approves One Textbook Bill, Vetoes Another By Garineh Demirjian EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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or most students, the beginning of a new semester means taking on new classes, and facing new professors and peers. Not to mention the dread of having to pay hundreds of dollars for textbooks. To lessen the burden, efforts have been made by California state legislators to lower textbook costs that have produced two pieces of state legislation, one with a grim outlook. The legislators pushing for the bills are trying to get more advance information to college professors about the pricing of books and whether additional material in new editions is significant enough to order them. Requiring new editions makes it harder for students to buy or trade used copies. Patricia Bradley, GCC textbook buyer, feels students’ pain when it comes to textbook costs. “I can understand why students look for cheaper ways to pay for textbooks, if you look around you can see the shelves full of books,” said Bradley, referring to many books that have not been sold
because students purchase books from other sources, such as the internet and their peers. The main authors of the bills are both Democrats. Sen. Ellen Corbett of San Leandro wrote The College Textbook Affordability Act, SB 832, and Assemblyman Jose Solorio of Santa Ana is responsible for the Textbook Transparency Act, AB 1548. The bills require publishers to provide faculty a price list of all books in a subject area, an estimate of how long the publisher intends to keep the texts on the market and a list of considerable changes the newest editions contain. Those lists would also be posted online. On Friday, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed SB 832 and signed AB 1548. In a message to the senate, Gov. Schwarzenegger wrote, “I am supportive of efforts to address the cost of college textbooks and share the concern that these education costs have an impact on the affordability of college for many students. However, this bill [SB 832] focuses strictly on textbook publisher policies so therefore, instead of this bill, I am signing AB 1548 because it recognizes
the shared responsibility and attempts to address the issue in a more comprehensive manner.” According to Bradley, a fulltime student may spend $250 to $300 per semester on books. Bradley, who has worked in the bookstore for 20 years, has seen the changes in the number of books students purchase from the bookstore. “In the last 10 years, as technology advances, you can see a difference in the number of books being purchased from the bookstore,” said Bradley. When asked if the bookstore makes any profit from textbooks Bradley responded by saying that they “add on a 26 percent margin,” meaning if a book costs $100 the bookstore price would be $126. That’s not to say they make a large profit because the bookstore pays overhead, including salaries and shipping, from the margin. Steve Bie, a professor of philosophy, does not assign a textbook for all but one of his philosophy courses; rather he has all his readings and handouts on WebCT. When asked why he does this, he said “I post readings on WebCT rather than assigning a textbook to allow my students to save money. I believe that
many of the students who take my classes do not have a lot of money, so I should only require them to spend money on a text if there is no more economically efficient way to accomplish the same goal.” Bie also said that he used to assign books to his students but realized that they cost about $100 each and each year insignificant changes were made in order to force students to purchase new editions rather than used editions. “This serves the economic interests of the book companies at the expense of struggling students, but it does not serve any legitimate educational goal,” said Bie. When Richard Kamei, a sociology instructor, was asked if he thought the new bills would affect him as an instructor he said an important reason why he teaches at a community college is because he want to “empower populations” that have been historically marginalized. “To accomplish this goal, community colleges must be affordable to working class students. A partial solution to this problem is to manage textbook costs. In this respect, the bills
provide a means to help reduce book costs, which I am all for,” said Kamei. Some professors, such as Mark Maier, an economics instructor, have a different take when it comes to purchasing new editions of textbooks. “In economics, with constantly changing data and policies, everythree-year updates are quite reasonable. However, the increase in textbook prices is a function of the reduced number of textbook publishers, an issue that needs to be addressed nationally, not in state legislation,” said Maier. The GCC bookstore does have a resale policy called “050” meaning the most you can get for an undamaged book is 50 percent of the original cost. If the publishers are not going to reuse the same edition the following semester the bookstore will not buy it back. The bookstore hours are Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information regarding the bookstore call (818) 242–1561. Garineh Demirjian can be reached at Garineh_Demirjian@elvaq.com
El Vaquero
Unpurchased Textbooks Remain On Shelves
Glendale Community College
editor in chief
Richard Kontas
Graig Agop Garineh Demirjian Eyonna Andreatte Anita K. Marto Allan Beglarian Robert Radich Ross Coleman Olga Ramaz Sarah Elkeaikati Ismael Reyes Jane Pojawa faculty adviser
Michael Moreau mmoreau@glendale.edu (818) 551-5214
advertising
Jeff Smith jsmith@glendale.edu (818) 240-1000, ext. 5128
design adviser
Charles Eastman 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 editor@elvaq.com or call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5349. Send Letters to the Editor
Photo by Graig Agop
Textbooks remain on the shelves due to high costs which push some students to purchase from other sources.
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, October 17, 2007
NEWS
Genocide Resolution Stirs Controversy By Sarah Elkeaikati EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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or Armenian activists fighting the uphill battle in an attempt to have the Armenian genocide of 1915 recognized in the U.S., the third time just might be a charm. A revised U.S. resolution recognizing the genocide, which is co-sponsored by 225 members of the house, was brought to the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee on Oct. 10 and was approved by a 27-21 vote. Previous versions of the bill were introduced in 2001 and 2005, however, they did not make it past the house. This time around, the resolution has more support, especially with more than a majority of House members as co-sponsors. The resolution has sparked much debate within Congress and with the President because of the risks passage might entail. Turkey is a NATO partner and a vital ally of the U.S. and the resolution could endanger that crucial alliance, and affect Turkey’s cooperation with the U.S. in the war in Iraq. The Turkish embassy stated that the resolution “would impose a one-sided
interpretation of the tragedies that befell upon many in the last years of the Ottoman Empire and would commit injustice to those who are seeking the truth. Such measures would not only affect relations between the United States and Turkey… but would further complicate Turkish-Armenian relations and frustrate Turkey’s pursuit of reconciliation.” President George W. Bush also warned that a resolution like this would offend an important ally and create a negative impact on U.S. security interests. Although an exact date has not been set for a vote, Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Glendale, author of the resolution, said it may happen in November. The Armenian Genocide occurred between the years of 1915 and 1923 when, although the exact number is subject for debate, nearly 1.5 million Armenians were killed in Eastern Turkey. The Turkish Embassy claims that the number of casualties is inflated and that it was not genocide, but merely casualties of World War I.
Sarah Elkeaikati can be reached at Sarah_Elkeaikati @elvaq.com
Elevator Construction Continues
Photo by Richard Kontas
The elevator tower leading from the new parking structure is scheduled to be operational Dec. 1.
By Sarah Elkeaikati EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
T
he construction continues on Mountain Street and in the new parking structure as students and faculty members patiently wait for the completion of the all-important elevators in the free-standing tower and in the structure. According to Bill Taylor, director of business services, the entire project is right on schedule, with the entrance road and traffic signals set to be completed on Nov. 2.
The parking structure elevators will become operational on Nov. 15, and those in the free-standing tower on Dec. 1. The shuttle buses that have been provided by the school will remain in use until Dec. 1, when all construction is completed. This has come as great news to any student or faculty member who has had the long climb up cardiac hill. “No one wants to park in the new structure because of all the flights of stairs,” said engineering major, Shant Danielian, 20. “When the elevators are finished,
the parking situation will be a lot better.” The cost for the entire project has not yet been determined, but the contract for the structure, tower, and bridge totals approximately $26 million. This new addition to the campus has already improved the parking situation, and once the elevators are functional, parking will be that much more accessible. Sarah Elkeaikati can be reached at Sarah_Elkeaikati @elvaq.com
Campus Comments How do you feel about Turkey’s reaction to the U.S. Armenian Genocide Resolution? Mike Harutunian 20 BUSINESS “This resolution is an important step toward worldwide recognition. If it means broken ties with Turkey then I guess that’s how it’s going to be.”
Ani Demurchyan 17 BIOLOGY “Turkey shouldn’t cut off ties with the U.S. just because of this resolution. Passing this would be the right thing to do.”
Matthew Koharchick 23 HISTORY
Sam Hacopian 20 COMPUTER INFORMATION
“America should do what is morally right. If this resolution ruins ties with Turkey, then those ties weren’t good to begin with.”
“The resolution is important but it won’t pass because Turkey is an important U.S. ally.”
— Compiled by Sarah Elkeaikati and photographed by Graig Agop
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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NEWS
New VP of Student Services Has Big Plans for College By Robert Radich
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
R
icardo Perez initiated innovated plans almost immediately on assuming his new position of Vice President of Student Services on July 16. Soon after coming on board and meeitng with several members of staff and faculty in Student Services to get a feel for the institution, its successes and its challenges, he thought of ways to make the campus more student friendly. “I initiated a campus campaign in encouraging staff and faculty to wear ‘Welcome to Glendale College’ badges,” said Perez. “When the new students are in a new environment, they need guidance, so our staff that is wearing the badge can help them with their needs.” Perez, 49, was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. When Ricardo was a little boy, his father was in America working as a sheet metal worker and during this time, his mother was about to marry another man in Guadalajara. His father was determined to marry the woman he loved, so he made the trip to Mexico to make it official. Following the marriage, Ricardo and his mother came to Los Angeles to re-join with his father and begin a family. Perez is the oldest of four brothers and has two sisters. Growing up, although he lived in a household of nine, he felt it was
comfortable. “To be honest, it wasn’t difficult because there was nothing to compare it to,” said Perez. “There were no rich people next door, so we lived in our comfort zone. We each had a bed, so it was not so stressful.” His childhood in America was full of excitement and very active. Growing up, Perez was an altar boy, a boy scout, and when he was in the mood for some baseball, he would cross the 5 freeway to attend Dodger Stadium to catch a game. Perez has been married for 21 years to Adriana and has two children, Richard, 17, and Sabrina, 13. He has great pride in his children and tries to stay active in their everyday lives. He describes his son as an artistic drawer with a bright future. Perez has hung one of Richard’s drawings on his office wall to remind himself of the creativity his son exhibits. “Like any parent who cares, he wants me to do well,” said Richard. “Of course, I don’t always agree with the terms involved, but in the end I know I have to do it for myself. He’s taught me at least that much.” His daughter plays softball and he often encourages her to increase her skills through repetition and hard work. “My father has influenced me in school by telling me that to go far you need to be an intelligent person to make it to a major university to play softball,” said Sabrina.
Classifieds To place an ad in the El Vaquero, contact Jeff Smith, the advertising manager, at jsmith@glendale.edu
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Photo by Ismael Reyes
Vice President Ricardo Perez discusses the services he has implemented to make student’s lives easier at GCC.
“Also, he tells me no matter what I am doing to always have a great personality.” Perez graduated from Sylmar High school and received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science at UCLA, master’s in Education Counseling at CSU Dominguez Hills, and his doctorate of education at UCLA. “In my senior year at UCLA, I had an internship working for Undergraduate Admissions and Relations with schools,“ said Perez. “With my first pay check, I bought my mom a color TV” Perez is a big man with a large sense of humor; but his devotion to his to work runs deep. Once the fall semester was underway, Student Services placed a table called the Add/Drop Information table in on the side of the Plaza Vaquero to encourage students not to drop their classes, to assist students to enroll in classes and help them with their academic needs. This is one of Perez’s first accomplishments as VP of Student Services and he intends to use the Add/Drop Information table to assist students that struggle with their classes. Additionally, Perez and his Student Services Cabinet team developed a Special Student Services flyer which is now on the school website. Special Student Services deals with information that students may need, such as, employment, loans, books, etc. Palin Arapoonian, Administration Assistant for
Student Services, describes Perez as a hard worker. “He tries very hard to do his job and when a student or teacher needs to ask him something, he never says no,” said Arapoonian. “It’s like not having a boss, he’s neutral, and so it’s easy to work with him.” Perez has a list of plans to move GCC to the next level. His short-term plans consist of lobbying the chancellor’s office to assign funds to each community college to develop programs to help increase student success in basic skills classes. Secondly, categorical programs are EOPS/CARE, Center for Students with Disabilities, Matriculation, Noncredit Matriculation, and Cal Works. These are programs for disadvantaged students. In mid-November, Perez and his team will be working on self-study on the categorical programs, so once his team sends their report to the chancellor’s office, the chancellor will assign a team and review GCC programs in the spring of 2008. His third short-term goal will be more visits by the school’s outreach team to encourage an increase of people to make the transition from the Garfield campus to GCC. His last short-term goal is to gather records on student learning outcomes to assess how students are progressing. His long-term plans include, meeting with the ad-hoc committee bi-weekly to discuss
planning enrollment strategies to reach the enrollment target with the chancellor’s office. Perez and his team also intend to develop an electronic Student Educational Plan (SEP). With this system, when students want to know which classes they need to take, counselors will fill out electronic SEP forms for them, which will allow for records to be accessed electronically. His third long-term goal is to complete the accreditation selfstudy and team visit in 2010. The self-study has four big components and he and his staff will be working on standard II B (student services) and II C. (Library and Resource Center). Lastly, Perez and his staff will be meeting with architects in planning for the development of the new Student Services building that will be completed by 2012. When the building is completed “new students matriculating to the college will only have to go to one building to be served via admissions, financial aid, assessment, orientation, counseling, and special services,” said Perez. When asked about how he felt when he got the call to be VP of Student Services. Perez mentioned, “I was overwhelmed, excited and that extended towards my family, and they were real excited for me.” Robert Radich can be reached at Robert_Radich@elvaq.com
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007 5
NEWS
Freedom of Speech Stirs Controversy on Campus By Sarah Elkeaikati EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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Glendale Community College student takes a brisk walk from Milky Way Cafe to Plaza Vaquero on his way to class. He hears the sound of a sharp whistle in the distance. His eyes follow the source of the sound to a group of people surrounding a man named Jeremiah, who is perched on stool whistling in the faces of his audience. Is he an Army recruitment officer? No. He is one of the proChristian, anti-anything-else street preachers who show up on campus at least once every semester. His message is as clear as the 4-foot banner it is written on: “Satan’s Children: Hypocrite Christians, Hebrews, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and all other false religions. Scoffers, The Prideful, Atheists, Agnostics, Idolaters, and all other clueless fools. Repent or Hell.” Many who gather around him,
whether in praise, disgust, or humor, wonder whether groups like this have the right to spew such messages on campus, and more importantly, why they would want to. Although GCC abides by the first amendment, there are some restrictions on the time and place for such displays of free speech. First, there are only certain areas on campus in which freedom of speech can be exercised. These limited-public forums, which are open to students and the community, include Plaza Vaquero and San Gabriel Plaza. Areas that are classified as non-public forums where the first amendment rights are more limited include campus offices, classrooms, libraries, and cafeterias. According to Free Speech Board Policy 5410, the superintendent or president, in accordance with the Campus Executive Committee, has the right to remove an area’s designation as a limited-public forum at any time, if it becomes a disrup-
Photo by Graig Agop
Street preacher Jeremiah expresses his view of repentence to passing students and faculty.
tion to surrounding classrooms. Additionally, the Dean of Student Affairs must be informed of those using the forums in order
WARNING: THIS EVENT IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER 13. SORRY, NO COSTUMES OR MASKS ALLOWED. Event will occur rain or shine. No refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions and entertainment subject to availability and may change without notice. TM & © MMVII New Line / Vortex, Inc. ©2007 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 07-LOC-6162
to set time restrictions. This is done to avoid monopolization by any particular group and to ensure that all students and groups get a
chance to make use of the space Despite these regulations, [See Christian, Page 10]
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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NEWS
‘Altered Oceans’ Uncovers Effects of Marine Pollution By Eyonna Andreatte EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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he Los Angeles Times joined Town Hall Los Angeles at the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy, Oct. 3 to give members of the media, an opportunity to ask questions about its series “Altered Oceans.” “Altered Oceans” a five-part series on the effects of pollution in our oceans, won the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Journalism. Members of the Los Angeles Times speaking at the event included Marc Duvoisin, assistant managing editor, John Vande Wege, editorial multimedia manager, and Kenneth R. Weiss, staff reporter on California Coasts and Oceans. Weiss, a key writer of the series, has studied the California coast and the world’s oceans for the last five years. “We decided to attack the problems existing in our oceans now, rather than future problems, which lead to critics responding as though someone is saying that the sky is falling,” said Weiss. The series shows that there is a great decline of fish in the sea. Fisherman are now filling their shrimp boats with jellyfish rather than shrimp. There are also sea turtles developing tumors in Hawaii, and toxic algae is killing marine mammals. “Altered Oceans” makes the point that sick and dying sea lions indicate something is terribly wrong in the ocean. Residents of Los Angeles should be aware that piles of garbage are washing down the Los Angeles River to Long Beach, and most of this trash ends up in the ocean itself. “There is garbage almost equal to the size of Texas floating
all around the Pacific Ocean, and almost all of the debris, is plastic,” said reporter Weiss. “Now there are many seabirds, such as the albatross, discovered dead with trash, mainly plastic, found in their stomachs.” Part of the plastic pollution consists of billions of little pellets known as “nurdles” spilling everywhere from manufacturing companies, and ending up in the ocean. State Assemblymember Paul Krekorian of Glendale has a bill, AB258, awaiting final approval from the governor which will require manufacturers to prevent the plastic pellets from spilling into the ocean. “The bill is now on Gov. Schwarzenegger’s desk,” said Krekorian. When asked what an individual can do to help with this crisis, Weiss replied with his own personal actions; and said that he drives a less toxic car, tries not to eat big fish, and picks up after himself. Weiss is also making the public aware of the issues existing in the oceans. As an individual, there are several groups, volunteer programs, and organizations, such as Heal The Bay, that people can join to help fight the existing problems in the oceans. “A toilet and a refrigerator are something that you would not mistake in your own home,” Weiss said, referring to how we are treating our oceans like a refrigerator [as a place to keep fish to eat] and a toilet [as the receptacle in which waste is dropped]. To view the a 20- minute video version of ”Altered Oceans” visit www.latimes.com/oceans. Eyonna Andreatte can be reached at Eyonna_Andreatte@elvaq.com
Photo by Dieuwertje Kast
Ken Weiss (left) and John Van De Wege present “Altered Oceans,” a 20-minute multi-media examination of pollutants in the marine environment.
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Photo by Dieuwertje Kast
Ken Weiss explains how individuals can combat marine pollution.
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NEWS
Unity Festival Brings Glendale Together By Garineh Demirjian EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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n Saturday, the city hosted the sixth annual Glendale Unity Fest at Verdugo Park, an all-day affair packed with world music, ethnic foods and vendors selling imported arts and crafts. The festival featured a continuous program of ethnic dance and music groups with the Djanbazian dance group, the Scandia Dancers, Kultura Philipine, the Cahuilla Indians from Palm Springs, and the Mediterranean melodies of the Element Band. Glendale Mayor Ara Najarian said, “One of the best things about Glendale is its diversity of cultures. Diversity gives excitement, education, language, music and culture to our great city and the Unity Fest gives us all the opportunity to learn about one another.” Despite the heavy rainfall the day before the festival, that did not stop the performers and vendors from attending. The city provided free shuttle
service and free parking in all parking lots near the park. Surrounding the live entertainment was about 40 different booths from various businesses and organizations. There was plenty of free entertainment for children including rock climbing, a moon-bounce, slide and the Glendale public libraries bookmobile filled with hundreds of books. Festival attendees got to choose between korean barbeque, imported Armenian ice cream, Chinese food, traditional Mexican fare and the onsite preparation of the Arabic spiced dough known as manaeesh. One of the many sponsors for the festival was the Armenian National Committee of America, Glendale Chapter (ANCA) which donated $2,500 to the event. Elen Asatryan, Executive Director of the ANCA said, “Events like this should take place more often in Glendale. It gives the community a chance to appreciate the multicultural city we live in.”
From left, Noha Boutros preparing Naj bread dough while her two daughters, Toni and Mariet sell warm Manaeesh at their booth during the Unity Festival on Oct. 13.
Garineh Demirjian can be reached at Garineh_Demirjian@elvaq.com
— Photos by Ismael Reyes
Mike from the Saro Dance Company performs a shalakho, a traditional dance solo done only by the groom himself, at the Unity Festival in Verdugo Park.
Rita Demirdjian performs her bride solo, ouzoundara, to the sounds of a zourna, dhol and accordian during the traditional Armenian wedding dance
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
www.elvaq.com 9
FEATURE
‘Bat Boy’ Marks a Hit for Theater Arts Department Photo by Ismael Reyes
H
e is half-bat, half-boy. A freak of nature that dwells in a gloomy cave, but not for long. “Bat Boy: The Musical,” directed by Jeanette Farr, kick-started the fall Glendale theater season with a show-stopping bang on Oct. 11, bringing to life an off-Broadway masterpiece chock-full of slapstick antics, biblical allusion and quirky tunes, courtesy of a multi-talented theater arts ensemble. The musical is based on Bat Boy, a character taken from the pages of the late “Weekly World News” tabloid. The story of this strange creature served as a muse for writers Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming, who created a stage adaptation, then later rounded off the production with a score written by Laurence O’Keefe. In the musical, Bat Boy (Chris Beltran) is found in a cave by Ron (Jack Pimentel), Rick (Richard RealiVasquez) and Ruthie (Amanda Laskin), siblings who are shocked to stumble upon the freakish creature. In an effort to make nice with Bat Boy, Ruthie offers the creature Fritos, which Bat Boy rejects as he lunges toward Ruthie and makes a bloody feast out of her neck. The Sheriff (Jose “Shermie” Aguilar) arrives at the scene and nabs Bat Boy. He is then taken to the Parkers’, where he is welcomed by Meredith Parker (Ashley Ratcliffe) and her daughter Shelley (Renie Rivas). In an act of “Christian Charity” the Parkers’ agree to give Bat Boy a home - and take up the task of civilizing the wild creature through lessons in reading, conversation, art and history. The story unfolds as Bat Boy, christened “Edgar” by the Parkers’, becomes the scorn of Hope Falls, in spite of his successful assimilation into society. Some of the best moments in “Bat Boy” are provided by some of the newer faces, gracing the stage for the first time in a GCC production. Rivas and RealiVasquez not only radiate immense talent, but give off an aura of confidence that shines through in their performance, even when the cheese factor is up and running. Their “Watcha Wanna Do?” number is one of the highlights of the musical, generating laughs while cementing Rivas’ and RealiVasquez’ diverse artistic abilities. Rivas’ attempt to dance to a rap song, dressed in a Catholic school girl-like outfit is ridiculously funny, but not as funny as her attempts to beatbox while Rick gestures with his hands, in typical hip-hop fashion. However, it’s not just the way they carry themselves on stage that are noteworthy, it’s also their vocal ability that make them stars. Rivas’ voice is impeccable and during songs like “Inside Your Heart” (performed as a duo with Bat Boy), the clear, quality sound of her voice is all the more evident. RealiVasquez showcases his singing talents in “Children, Children” a number backed by the rest of the ensemble. Familiar faces, like that of Mario Mason (Mrs. Taylor [Rick, Ron and Ruthie’s mother]), Patrick St. John (Dr. Thomas Parker) and Ratcliffe stand out as well, making it obvious why these students continue to appear in GCC productions. Mason, who also co-choreographed the production alongside Meagon Ligons and Farr, is delightful as Mrs. Taylor, giving the character some sass, and a dash of campyness that compliment the off beat production. Rattcliffe’s character, a Christian cookie-cutter mom, postulates herself as the conscious amongst some of the sordid characters, showing Bat Boy love and affection from the second he arrives to the Parkers’ home. Her sweet duet with Bat Boy, “A Home for You,” brings out the vulnerable side of Bat Boy as he squirms about in his cage, wide eyed and looking like a lost puppy in search of a loving home. St. John’s interpretation of Dr. Parker is suave, a smoothness that manifests itself in “Dance with Me, Darling,” a tango-esque number that tells of Dr. Parker’s love for his wife Meredith and his much anticipated night of passion. During this number, Dr. Parker grabs hold of a baffled Bat Boy, twirling him about as they glide in synch, not missing a single step.
Photo by Ismael Reyes
Photo by Ismael Reyes
Photo by Anita K. Marto
— Story by Olga Ramaz Beltran does not stay behind in the talent pool. His interpretation of Bat Boy is endearing, to the point where one can’t help but fall in love with such a strange creature. With songs like “Let Me Walk Among You,” he wins the heart of the audience as well as some of the townsfolk. Although there are some restrictions for the cast when it comes to space, by no means is the lack there of a deterrent for the quality of the production. On the contrary, the dimensions of the theatre make the performance all the more intimate allowing for the audience to become one with the characters as they climb down ropes, leap across the stage and onto the aisles. The GCC Studio Theatre was converted into a legitimate looking cave that opened up to store props that were pulled in subtlety, throughout the performance. The lighting gave off both the ambiance of a gloomy cave, as well as a warm home. Both the set and lighting were the work of Technical Director, Guido Girardi. Complementing Bat Boy’s dark dwelling, were the sound effects of dripping water and other obscure noises. Musical Director Byron Delto did a great job producing the score for the musical. And although the music is excellent and the quality transcends
throughout the production, at times, the sound becomes too overpowering, drowning out the cast. Overall, “Bat Boy: The Musical” is a hit. With tight vocals, sound, choreography and a visually pleasing set, the cast shone brightly, proving that “Bat Boy: The Musical” is a performance well worth the price of admission.
Rating **** out of 4 “Bat Boy: The Musical” runs through Oct. 31 in the Studio Theatre. Tickets are $12 for general admission, $10 for students and seniors and $8 for groups of 10 or more. Seating is limited and reservations are strongly encouraged. Presentations start at 8 p.m. This production is not recommended for children due to some graphic material. For more information on “Bat Boy: The Musical” or to make reservations, call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5618.
Photo by Anita K. Marto From left, “You’d better not mess with our Christian charity!” Townfolk break into song during one of their meetings. Meredith Parker (Ashley Ratcliffe) teaches young Batboy (Chris Beltran) how to read. Rick Taylor (Richard Realivasquez) pulls a gun on Batboy, blaming him for his sister’s death. Constricted by a cage, his new home, Batboy crouches in confused terror. Batboy lies dead in Shelley Parker’s lap (Renie Rivas) while she grieves. Batboy prays to God to be a normal member of society. Photo by Ismael Reyes
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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FEATURE
Freedom of Speech: Time, Place and Manner The Glendale Community College District is committed to maintaining an educational environment that fosters the free exchange of thoughts and ideas. Consistent with constitutional guarantees, individuals and organizations may engage in free expression on college premises, consistent with Board policies and administrative regulations. The facilities and grounds of the District are non-public forums, except for those areas designated by the Superintendent/President in consultation with the Campus Executive Committee as being generally available for use by students or the community. These areas shall be regarded as limited public forums which designation may be removed and reverted to non-public forum status if use as a limited public forum disrupts District business or instructional activities. The District shall adopt such administrative regulations as are necessary to reasonably regulate the time, place and manner of the exercise of free expression in the limited and non-public forum areas of the college. Students shall be free to exercise their rights of free expression, subject to the requirements of this policy and adopted administrative regulations. Speech shall be prohibited that is obscene, libelous or slanderous according to current legal standards, or which so incites others as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on District property, or the violation of District policies or procedures, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the District. Nothing in this policy shall prohibit the regulation of hate violence, so long as the regulation conforms to the requirements of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, and of Section 2 of Article I of the California Constitution. Students may be disciplined for harassment, threats, intimidation, or hate violence unless such speech is constitutionally protected. Reference: Education Code Section 76120, GCC Administrative Regulation 5410 Adopted: 7/10/73 Revised: 3/31/83, 12/18/95, 4/17/06
Christian Group Supports Freedom of Speech, Condemns Freedom of Religion [Christian, from Page 5] 22-year-old Artur Asaduriyan, a three-year street preaching veteran of the Unshakable Youth Group program at Christian Outreach For Armenians Church in Glendale, often preaches on campus without approval. “The rules about informing administration was something the colleges implemented so they could control who comes and who doesn’t,” said Asaduriyan. “Once you tell them, they have the right to refuse you.” Although students and groups using the forums have the right to appeal the college regulations in U.S. District or Federal courts, the ruling is not always in their favor. The 1968 landmark case Tinker vs. Des Moines, which dealt with students who wore armbands in protest of the Vietnam War, set the standard for students’ right to express themselves as long as it was not “disruptive and did not impinge upon the rights of others.”
Whether religious street preaching can be classified as disruptive really depends on the audience. Arthur Artounian, a 20-yearold aerospace engineering major said, “The preaching is distracting to students and it makes me feel like they’re imposing their religious beliefs on me.” In contrast, accounting major Argo Asatryan, 20, believes that freedom of speech ties together with freedom to listen. “It’s their right to preach whatever they want,” said Asatryan. “But that doesn’t mean that I have to listen to them.” The street preachers feel their cause is worthy, despite the controversy that surrounds it. “When I preach, I stay calm and keep it on a very intellectual level,” said Asaduriyan. “My goal is to provoke people into thinking about God.” Some who gather to hear the speeches support the preacher’s efforts toward trying to guide people onto the right religious path, while others feel that they are witnessing something close to
a hate speech. Andre Moradian, a 17-yearold college employee reasoned with students who disapproved of the preaching. “He’s doing this out of love,” he said. “He’s not attacking anyone, he’s just warning them.” Armen Haftvani, 20, shook his head disapprovingly has he sat and listened to Jeremiah. “[As a Christian] I’m embarrassed,” said Haftvani. “He’s spouting hate and he’s being hypocritical.” Asaduriyan and his youth group members along with members of the Truth Movement Club at GCC are planning to organize a debate on the campus between philosophy professors and Christians regarding the existence of God Asaduriyan hopes that moving the religious debate to a more formal venue will spark more interest in the subject and more voices on the platform.
Sarah Elkeaikati can be reached at Sarah_Elkeaikati @elvaq.com
The Glendale Y.W.C.A. is hosting an innovative conference for young women ages 15-30 at Glendale Community College.
H.E.R. Conferernce for Young Women
( Health-Empowerment-Resources ) Saturday, October 27, 2007
The event will be held from 8:00 a.m to 12:30 p.m. and the cost is $35.00. The intent is to educate and empower young women with the information and resources they need to pursue their personal and professional goals. Speakers and panelists are leaders in their respective fields: personal finance, career guidance, leadership and politics, healthy living and physical well-being, beauty and life coaching. Reservations are not needed. For more information, contact the Glendale YWCA at 818 242-4155 x227.
Photo by Graig Agop
Students gather around street preacher Jeremiah to defend their beliefs, offer support, or just have a good laugh.
WANTED: WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND? Letters to the editor...
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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
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Ode to Beatles and ’60s Revolution Scores Across the Board By Olga Ramaz
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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o call director Julie Taymor’s “Across the Universe” beautiful would be a disservice to the magical grandeur she created, frame by frame, with a little help from an assortment of astounding visual affects, casting and most importantly, 33 Beatles classics. From beginning to end, the film offers both a visual and audio feast. In the opening scene we are introduced to Jude (Jim Sturgess), sitting alone on the beach. Suddenly, when the camera pans in for a close-up, he breaks into the first lines of “Girl,” which is jarringly interrupted by a series of chaotic images, accompanied by “Helter Skelter,” serving as an allusion to what’s to come. “Across the Universe” tells the story of two young lovers, Jude and Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood) whose love blossoms during the tumultuous ’60s. The characters are faced with the realities of a sexual revolution, drugs, rock ’n’ roll and the Vietnam War. The two meet after Jude ditches his job as a dock worker in Liverpool and travels to the United States to search for his long-lost father. While searching for his father, who turns out to be a janitor at Princeton instead of the respected professor Jude thought him to be, the lad meets Max, Lucy’s older brother (Joe Anderson), a loud-mouthed smart ass who eventually drops out of college. After a pleasant Thanksgiving dinner with Max’s family, the two head to New York to try their luck. The two are later joined by Lucy, who seeks comfort after the loss of her boyfriend who died in Vietnam. Lucy and Jude take a liking to one another and eventually embark on a romantic voyage. As the plot unfolds, we are introduced to a series of characters, all of whom are different yet lovable in their own rights. Sadie (Dana Fuchs), aside from being the landlady of the apartment house Jude, Lucy
and Max live in, is also an aspiring rock singer. Her raspy Janis Joplin-like voice exudes a sultry sound that carries out, impeccably, songs like “Helter Skelter,” which becomes the anthem of a scene depicting an anti-war rally that quickly evolves into a full-blown riot. Even Sadie’s garb and palate for Jack Daniels are a throwback to Joplin, one of the many notable rock icons and casualties of the ’60s. Jo-Jo (Martin Luther McCoy) evokes the great Jimi Hendrix. Jo-Jo finds himself traveling to New York from his hometown of Detroit after his little brother dies during a riot. With only a duffle bag and his guitar slung across his shoulder, he meets up with Sadie, who is auditioning guitarists to fill a vacant spot in her band. Soon the two find themselves involved in an onoff relationship that is eventually rekindled one last time. Prudence (T.V. Carpio), a closet lesbian and a former high school cheerleader, who makes her way from a suburb in Ohio to New York, introduces herself to the gang after she comes through the bathroom window of Sadie’s run down apartment. However, this is not the first time we see her. We are first introduced to Prudence during a football scrimmage, where instead of cheering the team on, she sits on the bleachers and longingly stares at a blonde cheerleader while angelically singing “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” To make ends meet, Jude takes up art, Lucy works as a waitress and Max becomes a cabbie. But reality soon slaps them in the face when Max is drafted to Vietnam. In every scene, the effects keep getting better and better. When Max presents himself at the government office, he is welcomed by an animated Uncle Sam who glares and points at Max, spitting out “I Want You (She’s So Heavy).” What follows is a wellchoreographed number, full of dancing, animated Uncle Sam’s, recruits stripped down to their skivvies, while being weighed, measured and going over drills. The new recruits soon find
Frolicking to “Because,” Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood) and Jude (Jim Sturgess) hold a passionate embrace underwater.
themselves storming the jungles of Vietnam, crushing palm trees while carrying the Statue of Liberty. “Strawberry Fields Forever” is the segue way to a beautifully rendered scene where Jude finds himself struggling to create a logo for Sadie’s recording label. After giving up on the idea of using a green apple as a logo, he then turns to strawberries. Jude pins strawberries to a white board and as their crimson juice drips to the floor, the scene reaches a climax. Strawberries turn to hand grenades, dropping on soldiers in Vietnam. The brilliant shades of red Jude splashes on to a canvas become spots of blood trickling down the faces of Army men. While Jude rejoices having succeeded in his task, images of combat play on. The scene set to “Because” depicts the gang as they frolic underwater in a surreal sequence. At one point, Jude
and Lucy hold and embrace, reminiscent of John and Yoko’s embrace as seen on the cover of “Rolling Stone Magazine,” circa 1980. Rounding off the breathtaking visual effects and music are the surprising star cameos. Joe Cocker, playing the role of a New York transient, chimes in with Jo-Jo for “Come Together,” Salma Hayek plays nurse to Max’s character after her returns from Vietnam in the song “Happiness is a Warm Gun” and U2’s Bono takes the role of Dr. Robert, a shaman who takes the gang on a psychedelic trip for the song “I Am the Walrus.” “Across the Universe” is a
quality film consisting of great visual effects, perfectly executed choreography and acting and above all, great music. Even if you are not a fan of the Beatles, you owe it to yourself to check this film out. Rating out of 4 “Across the Universe” is playing in select theaters only. This film is rated PG-13 and contains scenes with mild violence, some strong language, sex, drug use and nudity. Parents are strongly cautioned. Olga Ramaz can be reached at Olga_Ramaz@elvaq.com
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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SPORTS
Nakano Adds a Killer Spike to Vaquero Volleyball By Ross Coleman
EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR
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laying a collegiate sport while balancing classes is difficult enough, but add to that that you are new at the game and new in the country, makes the fact that Aya Nakano is the volleyball team’s leading hitter all the more remarkable. Aya Nakano, 20, is a freshman outside hitter for the Glendale College Lady Vaquero volleyball team. She is an aviation major and an international student from Japan. Nakano was raised in the small, countryside town of Nye, Japan. She started playing volleyball in junior high school and played all throughout high school. When she came to Glendale she enrolled in the college without the thought of playing a collegiate sport. She enrolled in the volleyball physical education class, where her instructor told her that she should try out for the volleyball team. It was a perfect match. Taking five classes is a difficult task, but doing it in a foreign country requires Herculean effort.
“I’m an international student so I need more time to deal with my studies compared with other students, so I’m always fighting sleep in class,” says Nakano. Off the court Nakano is just your typical student. Social Science is Nakano’s favorite class. She says, “I’m enjoying social science during this semester because I can look at different prospective then my own country.” Nakano says that her favorite things to do outside of school and volleyball are hanging out with friends, listening to music and watching television. Nakano is also a fun player to watch on the court. With all the negative headlines in the world of sports it is refreshing to be able to watch someone who is clearly having a really good time playing a game. Athletes in America seem to live and die with how they play or whether their team wins or loses. Whether Nakano makes an amazing play (a regular sight) or if she has a miss-hit, she always has a smile on her face. For Nakano, who didn’t know any English before coming to GCC, volleyball is all about having fun with her teammates. “[My
favorite thing about playing is] my teammates and the team play,” Nakano says. “[Nakano’s] tenacity and positive attitude always shine through,” said volleyball Coach Yvette Ybarra. “[She] brings a positive attitude and a strong will. She wants to give it her all and when she is having trouble in one area she finds another area to contribute. She has a good sense of the court, which I think helps the team.” Playing volleyball in America seems to fit Nakano very well. Although she faces many difficulties not normally experienced by American students, such as a language barrier, she has done a great job facing them. Nakano says that her favorite thing about going to school in another country is “that I can learn a lot of new knowledge from the
Photo by Anita K. Marto
Aya Nakamo, top hitter for Glendale College’s Lady Vaqueros volleyball team, says she enjoys the diffences between American and Japanese volleyball play.
people who have a different culture, race, or religion.” After her time at Glendale, Nakano is not entirely sure of her plans. If she has the opportunity to take her volleyball skills to a four-year institution that would be something that she would really consider. “I want to keep playing volleyball at a university in this country if I get the chance because I just love playing,” Nakano says enthusiastically. However, she is unsure if she wants to continue her education in this country or go back home to Japan after her studies at Glendale. “I’m studying aviation be-
cause [I was thinking] I was going to be a flight attendant; however, now I’m thinking about transfering to Japanese University after I graduate from GCC,” Nakano said. It is very refreshing in this day and age to see someone who not only enjoys the challenge of playing a sport in another country but also plays the right way. Nakano is a role model despite her language challenges.
Ross Coleman can be reached at Ross_Coleman@elvaq.com
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Wenesday, October 17, 2007
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SPORTS
Vaqueros Come Out Fighting; Prevail Over Monarchs By Robert Radich
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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he Lady Vaqueros took the field in high hopes of a victory, but it didn’t take much effort, as they defeated Los Angeles Valley College 4-0 on a windy Oct. 5 night at Sartoris Field. The first goal was scored on a breakaway from sophomore forward Tatiana Aguirre. However, 10 minutes before that she had a similar shot on goal but missed wide right, but she regained her composure and came back strong to give her team the first lead of the match. Jorge Mena, head coach for the Vaqueros, felt at ease after the third goal in the second half and sat down with his players to relax and watch the rest of the game. His 4-4-2 formation helped his team control the ball with Claudia Orellana and Evelyn A. Herrarte controlling the mid-field and Jackie Cuevas heading up the defense as sweeper, the Vaqueros kept their opponents from gaining much access into Vaquero territory. “We decided to go with an extra mid-fielder to prevent any sort of attack,” said Coach Mena after the win. It worked well as the Vaqueros controlled the ball most throughout the entire game, especially in the second half. The first half ended in a battle of ball possession and going into halftime each team had to make significant adjustments to exploit the other team’s weakness. The second half began like the first, a great deal of passing and the same amount of intensity. Suddenly, as sophomore left-wing Olga Aguirre ran up the sideline, she was tackled brutally and fell to the ground. She clinched her leg and rolled on the field in agonizing pain. Spectators looked on with concern as the trainer ran
onto the field to accompany her needs. After a few minutes with Coach Mena and the trainer by her side, she slowly picked her self up and gave the player that tripped her a stare. “I felt angry and I wanted to play harder,” said Aguirre. In the 30th minute, the Vaqueros were awarded a free kick on the left side of the field, 30 yards out and up came Aguirre. She set herself up, ran up to the ball and booted it towards the goalkeeper. The goalkeeper positioned herself too far out and the high arch from the ball sailed over her head, underneath the crossbar and into the net for a 2-0 lead. The redemption was great and Aguirre felt ecstatic as she jumped into the arms of a fellow player and rejoiced over her score with fellow teammates. “I felt relieved and happy and this goal was not just for me, but for the team,” said Aguirre. The pace of the game shifted heavily onto the shoulders of the Vaqueros, and Valley College was limited to only three shots on goal for the second half. In the 37th minute of play, sophomore Claudia Orellana fought off defenders in the middle of the field, dodged through heavy traffic and launched a 25 foot blast over the head of the goalkeeper to shut the lights out of any chance of a comeback for Valley. Coach Mena was more relaxed after the third goal than any point of this game, so he decided to sit by the players to watch an additional goal by Catalina Sanchez to finalize the 4-0 beating. With this victory, the lady Vaqueros are standing at 6-3-3 and their next opponent is Citrus College. They will be playing at Citrus on Friday, at 3 p.m.
Dania I. Pur dribbles deep into Monarch territory, passing through defenders in need of a score.
Photo by Robert Radich
Robert Radich can be reached at Robert_Radich@elvaq.com
Study Abroad Program (818) 240-1000 ext. 5718 studyabroad@glendale.edu www.glendale.edu/studyabroad Study Abroad Office AD 145-C Photo by Robert Radich
Olga Aguirre lies on the field for several minutes after a blind-side tackle.
Courses Offered UC/CSU Transferable Humanities 120 Statistics 136 Geography 103
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Wednesday, October 17, 2008
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SPORTS
Glendale Football Loses a Heartbreaker at Home capitalize on our turnovers and that was the difference.” The first half ended tied at 3, issed opportunities. If this but either team could very well were Jeopardy the answer have been up by 21. Penalties would be: What was the key to hurt both teams, but Glendale the Glendale loss to College of was the team that shot itself in the the Canyons? foot, in the red-zone, with both The Vaqueros’ winning streak an interception and a missed field snapped at five games after losing goal in the first quarter. 19-10 at home Saturday night. The Canyons offense seemed Glendale, which dropped to 5- to confuse the Glendale defense 2 for the season, played a good at times. The Cougars ran a spread game on the defensive side of the offense, where any player on the ball forcing four turnovers and offense could end up with the ball scoring on a fumble recovery. on any play. The Vaquero sophomore Despite the many turnovers and quarterback Michael McDonald lack of focus Glendale was within started the game after splitting striking distance late in the fourth time with back-up Jacob Proctor quarter, trailing 16-10. But any for much of the season. He hopes of a comeback faded when completed 10 passes for 80 freshman wide receiver Kenneth yards. Suber dropped a key fourth-down Sophomore running back pass deep in Cougars territory. Shaun Kerman carried the load However, that is just one example for the Vaqs, rushing for 68 yards, of many missed opportunities. but College of Even after the the Canyons missed fourthkeyed on him down conversion, “We knew most of the Glendale had one it was going to be game and held more shot at a him scoreless. comeback. really tough, Sophomore However they are a good running back the comeback Donald Oliver would have football team, but led the vaqs had to be made we were right there with 76 yards without starting with them” rushing. quarterback Sophomore McDonald, who defensive was taken out —Head Coach John Cicuto end Grant with an injury. Va l e n t i n e So Proctor anchored a came in and threw strong defense. Valentine had an interception on his first pass 10 tackles including a fumble attempt. But Coach Cicuto stood recovery for a touchdown that behind Proctor saying, “It’s tough game Glendale the momentum. for him to go in to that situation, Linebacker Jason Barbic also had and throw the ball, when we had a very gutsy first half performance to throw the ball and they were before being pulled out due coming, but it’s a tough situation to injury. Sophomore safeties for any quarterback.” John Young and Raymond Glendale is looking forward to McDonough also played well in getting back on the winning track the secondary. this week when they travel to Despite the loss, Young was Compton College. “Week one we able to put a positive spin on the learned from the loss to Chaffey effort. “We just took a team that [College], and hopefully we can was averaging about 40 points and learn from this loss and carry it on held them to 19; we just gave up to the next week,” Cicuto said. too many big plays,” he said. “We “We just got to get ourselves need to fine tune everything for regrouped next week and become conference. We just gotta come a better football team before next back strong for conference.” week against Compton College.” “We knew it was going Hopefully the team can to be really tough, they are a look forward to fewer missed good football team but we were opportunities. right there with them,” Head Coach John Cicuto said after Ross Coleman can be reached at the game. “They capitalized on Ross_Coleman@elvaq.com their mistakes and we couldn’t
By Ross Coleman
EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR
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Linebacker Jermaine Pollard discusses plays Saturday with the defensive coordinator.
Photo by Anita K. Marto
Vaquero Sports Summaries Scores Men’s and Women’s Cross Country: Oct. 8 — Southern California Preview meet at Irvine: Glendale women — finished first in team results Glendale men — finished ninth in team results Oct. 15 — Santa Barbara Invitational: Glendale women — finished first in team results Glendale men — finished fourth in team results Women’s Volleyball: Oct. 2 — lost to Ventura College 3-0 Oct. 9 — lost to Cuesta 3-0 Oct. 12 — lost to Citrus 3-1 Current overall: 6-8 Women’s Golf: Current overall: 9-16
Women’s Soccer: Oct. 2 — defeated L.A. Mission 2-0 Oct. 5 — defeated L.A. Valley 4-0 Oct. 9 — tied College of the Canyons 0-0 Oct. 12 — lost to L.A. Pierce Current overall: 6-4-4; WSC 3-2-2 Football: Oct. 13 — lost to College of the Canyons 19-10 Current overall: 4-2 Men’s Soccer: Oct. 2 — lost to Santa Barbara 3-0 Oct. 5 — lost to Oxnard 2-1 Oct. 9 — lost to Citrus 2-0 Current overall: 2-10-2; WSC 1-4-1 For more information see: http://www.glendale.edu/athletics/
Upcoming Events Men’s and Women’s Cross Country: Tuesday — Western State Conference Championships 3:30 p.m. Women’s Volleyball: Friday vs. College of the Canyons at GCC. 7 p.m. Tuesday at L.A. Pierce. 7 p.m. Oct. 26 at Bakersfield. 7 p.m. Oct. 30 vs. Citrus at GCC. 7 p.m. Women’s Soccer: Friday at Citrus. 3 p.m. Tuesday vs. Santa Monica at GCC. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26 vs. L.A. Mission at GCC. 7 p.m. Oct. 30 at LA Valley. 4 p.m.
Women’s Golf: Monday at College of the Canyons. Oct. 29-30 Western State Conference Finals at Moorpark. Football: Saturday at Compton. 7 p.m. Oct. 27 vs. L.A. Valley at GCC. 7 p.m. Men’s Soccer: Friday at Moorpark. 2 p.m. Tuesday vs. College of the Canyons at GCC. 5:30 p.m. Oct. 26 at Santa Barbara. 4 p.m. Oct. 30 at Oxnard. 4 p.m. For more information see: http://www.glendale.edu/athletics/
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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Calendar On Campus exhibitions Andar Por Am érica—An exhibition featuring 30 years of photographs taken by Latin American studies professor Carlos Ugalde that focuses on images of Latin America opens Saturday and runs through Nov. 16. Artists reception Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. Art Gallery hours are: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 6 p.m. Saturday. For more information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5663 or visit www.glendale.edu/ art gallery.
activities H.E.R. Conference— GCC is hosting a YWCA conference for young woman ages 15 to 30 to help educate and empower them to pursue their goals. Speaker is
Jill Soloway, producer of Grey’s Anatomy. Oct. 27. Follow signs on campus to multiple locations. $35 to attend. Registration is from 8 to 9 a.m., event is from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information call (818) 242-4755, ext. 220. GCC Swap Meet—To be held in upper campus parking lot on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission. For information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5805. UCLA Representative—Student representative with the Center Commitee for College Partnerships will answer all UCLA-based questions. Transfer Center. Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5442. Meditation Series— “Appreciation vs. the Resenting Mind.”
No experience necessary. SR 113. Thursday noon to 1 p.m. Career Center Workshop— “Resume.” Focuses on essential resume-writing principles. Career Center. Thursday noon to 1 p.m. For more information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5407. UC Application Workshop— Featuring counselor’s assistance to complete the UC application process. Sponsored by the Transfer Center. Held in SF 107. From 10 to 11 a.m. Friday. For information call (818) 2401000, ext. 5442. Staff Development Workshop—“Elumen Software Demonstration” of student learning outcomes presented by Dr. David Shupe. SC 212. From 1:15 to 2:45 p.m. and 3 to 4:45 p.m. Thursday.
Staff Development Workshop— “Reaching 21st Century Students Using Kurzwell 3000” presented by Stacey Kayden of Laney College. SG 138. Friday 10 to noon.
planetarium “Spontaneous Fantasia” —-A real-time animation by J. Walt Adamczyk for the full dome at the GCC Planetarium. Oct. 27 at 6:30 and 8 p.m. General admission is $10 and $6 for children under 12. For more information call (626) 688-0778.
atre Arts Department. Auditorium Studio Theatre. Tickets are $12 for general admission and $10 for students and seniors. Groups of 10 or more are $8. Seating is limited. No late seating. Not recommended for children. For reservations and information call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5618.
lectures
theatre
Science Lecture Series— “Multiple Sclerosis: The Myth, the Reality and My Journey.” Speaker is Leslie Frank, Doctor of Physical Therapy. SB, room 243. Tuesday at noon. Free and open to the public.
Bat Boy: The Musical—Continues Thursday through Sunday, Oct. 25 through 27 at 8 p.m., Sunday and Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. and a special halloween performance on Oct.31 Presented by the The-
Humanities/Social Science Lecture Series— Nancy Niebrugge of the Braille Institute of America will discuss issues facing the blind. Kreider Hall. Oct. 25 at noon. Free to all.
N. California St., Burbank. For more information visit www.rottenapple907.com.
LACMA College Night— The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is open free to college students from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, with free parking after 7. Featuring the exhibit SoCal: Southern California Art of the 1960s and 1970s from LACMA’s Collection. The museum is at 5905 Wilshire Blvd. For information, call (323) 857-6000.
Around Town theme parks Universal Studios Hollywood— Universal presents its annual “Halloween Horror Nights,” on Friday at 7 p.m. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. Friday and Saturday, and Oct. 26 , 27, 28 and 31. 7 p.m.. Closing hours vary. For more information visit www.halloweenhorrornights.com or call (800) 864-8377, ext. 5. Knott’s Scary Farm — The granddaddy of them all. 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays; 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays and Oct. 29 through 31. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. $51, or $46 pre-sale. For more information visist www. knottsberryfarm.com or call (714) 220-5000. Six Flags Fright Fest— Roller coasters in the dark, eat a cockroach for front-of-the line passes. Thursday through Sunday and Oct. 25 through 31. Admission is $59.99 for adults and $29.99 for children 48 inches and under. For park hours visit www.sixflags. com or call (661) 255-4111. Queen Mary Shipwreck— Haunts at sea. 7 p.m. to midnight (later some nights). Friday
through Sunday, Oct. 26 through 28, 30 through 31. 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach. Admission is $35 and $20 on preview nights. For more information visit www.queenmaryshipwreck. com or call (562) 435-3511. Disney’s Halloween Time— Dressed up for All Hallow’s Eve. Hours vary. Daily rhrough Oct. 31. 1313 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim. $81 to $91, one-day-parkhopper pass; $39.99 Mickey’s Halloween Treat Only ($29.99 online). For more information visit www.disneyland.com or call (714) 781-4400.
local events Old Town Haunt—Descend into the basement of the historical Union Savings Bank Building. for thrills and chills. Thursday through Sunday. Oct. 25 through Nov. 3. Sunday and weekdays 7 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 7 to 12 a.m. $13.50 a person. 20 N. Raymond Ave., Old Town Pasadena. For more information visit www.oldtownhaunt.com or call (626) 737-6133. Los Feliz— Community-based smoke machines, strobe lights and inflatable beasts turn the intersection of Ambrose and Ken-
more and its environs into an annual block party. Fun for all The Witch’s Castle— Features an array of spooky effects and settings suitable for all trick-ortreaters, minimum age 8. Oct 30 preview from 6 to 10 p.m., Oct. 31 6 p.m. to ?. Free admission. 4218 Shadyglade Ave., Studio City. For more information visit www.witchcastle.com. Halloween Ghost Train— Playful spooks invade the mini-trains at Griffith Park. Evening rides for everyone, featuring 30 scary displays around the track. Come ride a train! Friday through Saturday, Oct. 26 through 31. Thegates open 6:30 p.m. and close 10 p.m. Train begins at 7 p.m. Travel Town - Los Angeles Live Streamers Railroad Museum 5202 Zoo Drive, Griffith Park, L.A. For more more information visit www.lals.org or call (323) 662-8030. Malice in Wonderland— Come see what has become of Wonderland since Malice moved in. Meet with Malice, the Deat Hatter, the White Rabbit, the Cards, and the infamous Queen of Hearts and see if you get out with your head and your life. Oct. 27, 28 and 31. 7 to 10 p.m. Free admission. 907
other Hollywood Forever Cemetery— Several events, including a Dia de Los Muertos celebration and both the regular schedule of tours and the annual Art Deco Society’s Halloween variety. 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. For information on tours visit www.cemeterytours.com. Vanguard— Warehouse turned moody discotheque hosts The Young A.R.M. Costume Party and Deep’s third annual house music masquerade ball. 8 p.m. on Oct. 25, and 9 p.m. on Oct. 28. 6021 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. For more information visit www.vanguardla.com.
exhibitions Three Generations of WestonsAn exhibition of fine-art photography featuring: Kim, Brett and Edward Weston, showing now through Dec 3. Located at Freestyle Photographic Supplies, 5124 Sunset Blvd. Hollywood. For detailed information, call (323) 6603460 ext. 121.
awards Armenian Golden Star Awards— Friday at 7 p.m. at the Alex Theatre 216 N. Brand Blvd. Includes dance and vocal performances in addition to the awards presentations. Suitable for ages 18 and older. The show is four hours, with one intermission.No cameras. The vocals are in Armenian. For ticket information visit www.alextheatre.org or call (818) 243-2539.
film “War Made Easy”— How presidents and pundits keep spinning us to death. Narrated by Sean Penn. Friday 7 p.m. Glendale Library 222 E. Harvard Refreshments, costume contest, audience discussion. For more information call (818) 662-0412
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Wednesday, October 17, 2007
www.elvaq.com
VAQUERO VIEWS
Halloween Horror Nights Thrill at Universal Studios — Story by Allan Beglarian
— Photos by Richard Kontas
Assorted ghouls, ghosts, monsters and zombies descend on Universal Studios Hollywood during “Halloween Horror Nights.”
“H
alloween Horror Nights” has arrived in the form of ghastly figures wielding chainsaws and bloody daggers, crawling in and out of dark corners or through smoke laden streets to attack the unsuspecting passersby. “It’s lots of fun, and I especially love the ghosts,” says Tiffany Mack, 10, out with her parents Paul and Annett Mack, at Universal Hollywood. “Having a good time with my kid,” was Paul Mack’s response to what it was that he loved about Halloween. Soldiers stand on a portion of the main street, while helicopter search lights comb the
street below, warning spectators of biological hazards, while zombies driven mad by chemical exposure criss-cross the street pretending, rather convincingly, to hack off heads with chain saws. “Halloween Horror Nights” features new attractions starring three of the most notorious madmen of the silver screen: Freddy Krueger of “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” Jason Voorhees of “Friday the 13th” and Leatherface from “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” These attractions are composed of long, navigable mazes with danger lurking at every corner, and scenes of gory terror straight out of the movies
they’re modeled after. “ I don’t know . . . I like to get scared,” giggled Kristen Sanchez with her friend Cindy Morales, upon exiting “Friday the 13th - Camp Blood.” This particular ride entails dark and narrow corridors filled with shrilling cries of the tormented, torn boiling flesh and hidden horrors with rushing aberrations, both real and imagined. Not recommended for the faint of heart. Wandering the macabre, fog-filled streets of Universal City Walk one comes upon a foul-mouthed, bullet-ridden Tony Montana of “Scarface.” He is wielding an M-16 assault rifle and an uncanny accent that matches the Cuban gang-
ster to a tee. “Say ‘ello to my little friend,” he proclaims before lowering his weapon and taking aim at his next victim. Another vivid ride is the “Terror Tram.” After boarding and riding the back lot tram – suddenly the driver announces “we’re having mechanical problems, you’ll all have to get out and walk the rest of the way” You find yourself wandering amid a rather realistic recreation of a crashed Boeing 747. Pieces of fuselage, flaming engines and landing gear are strewn among crushed and burning homes. Amongst the horrific carnage are both the casualties and the dazed, yet walking
survivors who will manage to scare the daylights out of you. “This is kind of horrible,” says Virginia Baker, 24, while walking with her boyfriend through the mayhem. “It makes you glad it’s all fake,” she continues with a big smile!” It’s thrills and chills for young and old alike – make sure you wear comfortable shoes – and plan on spending three to five hours to see all that there is to offer. Open this Friday and Saturday, Oct. 26 through 28, and Oct. 31 at 7 p.m. Closing hours vary. For more information call (800) 864-8377, ext. 5.