COURIER
Polaroids
Pasadena City College
Instructor’s art chosen for exhibit Page 6» Volume 107, Issue 3
The independent student voice of PCC. Serving Pasadena Since 1915.
Online edition pccCourier.com Facebook PCC Courier Twitter @pccCourier January 31, 2013
Alumnus in Super Bowl XLVII New legal
developments in bribery probe cases Two more hearings set, another possible lawsuit is in the works NICHOLAS SAUL Editor-in-Chief
Richard Quinton / Courier
Former Lancer receiver credits PCC for success PHILIP MCCORMICK Sports Editor
PCC alumnus David Reed, former wide receiver for the Lancers who will play in Sunday’s Super Bowl, said in an email received by the Courier on Wednesday that he gives credit to his time at PCC for his successful career in the National Football League. “[Former] Offensive Coordinator Marguet Miller and [former Head] Coach Kenny Lawler, [deserve credit],” said Reed. “Those guys stayed on top of me and made sure I stayed on a straight path. I love those guys, and I give so much thanks and credit to those guys. Miller is that guy.” While at PCC in 2007, Reed broke records for both receptions and receiving yards for community colleges nationwide, with 111 catches and 1,661 yards. He was also First Team AllConference and First Team Junior
Courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens Top left, wide receiver David Reed plays during his record-breaking 2006-07 season at PCC. Above, Reed now plays for the Baltimore Ravens.
College Gridwire All-American. This week, this former Lancer finds himself playing in Super Bowl XLVII with the Baltimore Ravens. “Everybody has a route to get to the NFL,” said Reed. “And my route to get here was just a little bit tougher than others.” Reed was drafted by the Ravens in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He was drafted as a wide receiver and
explosive kick returner. Reed also set a franchise record his rookie year for the Ravens with the longest kick-off return with a 103-yard touchdown against the Houston Texans. Reed said that he still keeps in touch with his former coaches. “Actually, [Offensive Coordinator] Miller has two players in the Super Bowl right now. [Myself and] Delanie Walker from the 49ers,” said Reed. -Additional reporting by Andrew Salmi
Academic Senate plans for 16-week calendar ANTHONY RICHETTS Online Editor
Academic Senate President Dustin Hanvey confirmed that the college will remain on a 16-week semester for the 2013-14 academic year at the Senate meeting on Jan. 28. There has been considerable talk of a 17 or 18-week semester, but Hanvey said
courses will still have to be scheduled to fit 54 hours of instruction. “It was brought up in the town hall meeting last November and the consensus was not there,” Hanvey told the Senate, referring to the discussion of the Carnegie Hour at a meeting held by the Senate on Nov. 29. “So therefore the focus of the Ad-Hoc Committee [on
Scheduling] has changed.” The newly formed Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Scheduling will grapple with classes overlapping and finding locations to hold courses, especially those that require specialized classrooms, such as chemistry or automotive courses. “The committee will be focusing on what is called
“block scheduling” and figure out how we can better schedule our classes within 16 weeks,” said Hanvey. “No cutting of the number of hours, no additional weeks to the semester, just trying to find a way to make it work.” In an interview on Wednesday, Hanvey said his understanding is that Continued on page 7
Two new hearings in lawsuits related to an ongoing bribery investigation of two fired school officials have been scheduled. Meanwhile, a wrongful termination claim filed against the District by one of the men was denied by the Board of Trustees at its Jan. 16 meeting. The bribery investigation by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office of former Vice President of Administrative Services Richard van Pelt, and former Facilities Supervisor Alfred Hutchings is continuing, officials at the DA’s Public Integrity Division said this week. In one of the lawsuits, the plaintiffs, LED Global LLC, and its two principals Robert Das and Saila Smith allege that van Pelt and Hutchings solicited bribes to the tune of $250,000 in exchange for a campus-wide lighting contract. The contract was eventually awarded to another company, Seesmart Inc. LED Global representatives later claimed to be the initial whistleblower that prompted the DAs investigation into van Pelt and Hutchings. LED Global is also suing the District for negligence and breach of contract. The complaint was initially dropped when the school challenged the legal sufficiency of the document, but has since been amended and is set for a court hearing, according to the school’s general counsel Gail Cooper. More recently, Hutchings filed a claim for damages from the District in excess of $10,000, alleging “wrongful termination, unpaid wages, failure to return personal property, and defamation,” according documents on the Board agenda for Jan 16. The claim, a legal step required before filing a suit in court, was denied by the Board. In the initial lawsuit, Hutchings and van Pelt are accused of soliciting bribes, cigars, limo service, prostitutes, and a first-class excursion in India in exchange for the $5 million lighting contract for the school. In turn, van Pelt and Hutchings filed a crosscomplaint against LED Global, alleging conspiracy to commit fraud and to slander them. That complaint was eventually dropped without prejudice in an earlier hearing because their representatives were failed to reply to motions made against them. A new hearing in the LED Global suit against van Pelt and Hutchings is scheduled to take place on Feb. 27. In the second case LED Global filed against the District, a hearing has been scheduled for March 12.
New dean ready to tackle multiple challenges LUIS RODRIGUEZ Features Editor
Just as students begin to settle into routines at the college, so do faculty. Among them is new Dean of Academic Affairs Ofelia Arellano, ready to tackle the unique challenges presented to her. Arellano said she has adjusted to the job well after leaving Santa Barbara City College because of restructuring that eliminated her division. “People are just so welcoming, friendly, helpful and I’m learning a lot.
Everyone’s been really helpful, from the president, the vice presidents and the staff,” said Arellano in a recent interview. Faculty also is enthusiastic about the new dean. “I’ve found her very open and she’s made a lot of suggestions that have been helpful,” said Dustin Hanvey, president of Academic Senate. “My first impressions of her are a good solid addition to the administrative team. She is sophisticated, very well
thought of, obviously a lot experience. And she knows how to deal with very complex issues in a way that make sense.” Arellano is filling a newly created post. “It is a new position. My primary responsibilities are to really work on the schedule of classes to ensure we have a schedule that students can use and schedule classes that they want,” she said. “I’ll spend time working in collaboration with the deans and the Continued on page 7
Justin Clay/ Courier Dean of Academic Affairs Ofelia Arellano goes over notes in her office on Wednesday. Arellano is in her first semester as Dean of Academic Affairs, an entirely new position on campus.
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News
Courier
Upcoming Events Today Calendar Standing Committee Meeting: Noon. C217. “What’s Next Workshop” 2 p.m. L110. Find out what us the next step for your transfer process to the CSU system. Feb. 1 UCLA-STEM Program visit11a.m. to 1 p.m. in Quad. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. L110. Feb. 2 PCC Cash For College Fair. InDistrict. 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 4 UCLA Rep. visit-10 a.m. to 4 p.m. L110. Transfer advisement for UCLA. CSULA Rep. visit-10 a.m. to 6 p.m. L110. Transfer advisement for CSU. Feb. 6 Board of Trustees Meeting: Creveling Lounge. 7 p.m.
January 31, 2013
VP elected to Rose Parade panel MADISON MIRANDA Staff Writer
Assistant Superintendent/Senior Vice President Robert B. Miller has been elected to the Tournament of Roses Executive Committee. He will serve as vice president for four years before moving up to secretary, treasurer, executive president and finally president in 2021. He was nominated for membership in 1984 and has been on the committee ever since. “It’s a major accomplishment that has humbled me,” says Miller about being elected. Aside from his marriage and the birth of his children, Miller says this is one of the best things to happen in his life. Miller attended the University of La Verne and is currently a Monrovia resident. Dressed professionally during a recent interview in a button down shirt and tie, he looked every bit the part of a future president of the Tournament of Roses. “As the president, you are the public face of the game and parade,” he said. According to Miller, being president of the Tournament of Roses has been a lifelong dream of his that he is excited to have finally come true. As president, it will be his job to “create a spectacular floral pattern that celebrates the New Year in a way that brings hope and promise to people around the world,” Miller said. Miller first got involved with the Tournament of Roses
Blair Wells / File Photo / Courier Robert B. Miller, senior vice president, has been elected to the Tournament of Roses Executive Committee.
Committee by helping Dick Ratliff of the PCC Foundation Board convert 16mm film into videotape for the 1983 Rose Parade. He was nominated to become a member of the committee the following year. During his time as a member, Miller has worked in many positions from barricade duty to chairing six of the 31 committees. These committees include the Post Parade, Float Entry, Float Construction, University
Entertainment, Sports Media and VIP Tailgate Committees. “[This is] remarkable on so many levels. I hope to develop a theme that captures the hearts and imagination of the world in a way that mixes education and entertainment,” said Miller with a grin. When speaking of how he wants to link his educational background with his passion for the Rose Parade, Miller’s face lit up with excitement and enthusi-
asm. Miller is looking forward to “red jacketing” during the 2021 Rose Parade, an honor only the president receives. Miller plans to wear a red sports coat and have his wife with him while he leads the parade. Miller said one of his personal goals, as president, is to give more of the money that the Tournament raises to local communities.
Enrollment up 6 percent CHRISTINE MICHAELS News Editor
Student enrollment in Spring 2013 is up six percent compared to Spring 2012, marking a possibility for more state funding according to college officials. The number of Full Time Equivalent students (the measure used by the state) to be funded by the state is about19,000, President Mark Rocha told the Board of Trustees on Jan. 16. The college is expecting to receive an additional $6.7 million from the state for FTES, according to Assistant Superintendent Vice President of Business and College Services Robert Miller. “For now, assuming we hit our FTES [current year] targets, we expect to get an additional $6.7 million. This could be more or less based on what the state provides to us,” said Miller. The current number of FTES for the 2012-13 year is over 21,675 according to Director of Institutional Effectiveness Crystal Kollross. “We have over 250 more FTES
this year so far compared to last year,” said Kollross at the Board meeting. The projected FTES count for the 2012-13 fiscal year was 21,050, which was less than the actual count for the 2011-12 year at 21,425 according to the California Community College Chancellor’s office Quarterly financial report. The enrollment increase is because of the addition of seats to each course. The extra seats were made available after the passage of Proposition 30 and the extra money the college is expected to receive in May. “The addition of class seats also helped,” said Kollross enthusiastically. “And [more class seats] have to do with the faculty being fantastic with large group instruction.” Miller said he was pleased with the increase in enrollment, as it aids the college’s financial strength and stability. “The district continues to be in a strong financial situation. FTES are the backbone of this institution financially,” he said.
January 31, 2013
Courier 2012 JACC General Excellence Award Winner EditorinChief Nicholas Saul News Editor Christine Michaels Assist. News Editor Teresa Mendoza Online Editor Anthony Richetts Assist. Online Editor Madison Miranda Opinion Editor Emily Chang ‐ Chien Assist. Opinion Editor Raymond Bernal Arts & Entertainment Editor Paul Ochoa Features Editor Luis Rodriguez Assist. Features Editor Shelly Maldonado Sports Editor Philip McCormick Assist. Sports Editor Benjamin Simpson Photo Editor Buren Smith Assist. Photo Editor Matthew Chan Chief Photographer Justin Clay Online Photo Editor Antonio Gandara Assist. Online Photo Editor John Novak Scene Editor Concepcion Gonzalez Staff Writers: Jonathan Biles, Aerika Dave, Tiffany Herrera, Vivan Meza, Adam Mitchell, Tiffany Roesler, Andrew Salmi, Karla Sosa
Opinion
Courier
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Sensible gun control laws needed ANTHONY RICHETTS Staff Writer
It is not until recently, with the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Ct., that the U.S. has decided to seriously look at guns as a cause for mass shootings as officials start to take steps to reduce gun violence. According to the Harvard Injury Control Research Center at the Harvard School of Public Health, “Where there are more guns there is more homicide.” It also found that “a broad array of evidence indicates that gun availability is a risk factor for homicide, both in the United States and across high-income countries. Case-control studies, ecological time-series and crosssectional studies indicate that in homes, cities, states and regions in
the US, where there are more guns, both men and women are at higher risk for homicide, particularly firearm homicide.” If increased gun ownership leads to an increase of homicides, we should be taking steps to decrease the number of firearms owned by individuals, starting with the most dangerous of all: military style assault weapons. Right now is the time to take those steps. On Jan. 16, President Barack Obama asked Congress to pass a law reinstating the federal assault weapons ban, which in 2004, President George W. Bush and Congress allowed to expire, once again permitting gun stores to sell military grade weapons to the public. Although anti-gun control activists claim that the assault weapons ban had no effect in
curbing gun violence, a study done for the U.S. Department of Justice “An Updated Assessment of the Federal Assault Weapons Ban: Impacts on Gun Markets and Gun Violence, 1994-2003” warned of dire consequences if the ban were lifted. “It is likely that gun and magazine manufacturers will reintroduce assault weapon models and large capacity magazines, perhaps in substantial numbers,” it said. “In addition, AWs grandfathered under the 1994 law may lose value and novelty, prompting some of their lawful owners to sell them in secondary markets, where they may reach criminal users. Any resulting increase in crimes with AWs and LCMs might increase gunshot victimizations, though this effect could be difficult to discern statistically. It
is also possible, and perhaps probable, that new AWs and LCMs will eventually be used to commit mass murder.” If the government reinstates the ban, it would be getting off the streets weapons designed to kill massive numbers of people and for warfare, but not for use of self-defense and hunting. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, firearms are more often used to intimidate people rather than in self-defense. According to an Associated Press poll, 58 percent of Americans are in favor of a ban on these kinds of weapons. With a strong showing of public support, let’s put into place gun control laws that are sensible so that everyone can support and take on the problem at the heart of the matter.
Brown’s proposed budget ignores crucial programs LUIS RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer
California colleges can breathe a sigh of relief with Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed budget for the 2013-14 fiscal year, but the court system and child care didn’t fare as well. The governor alludes to these cuts subtly in his opening message available at ebudget.ca.gov by referring to his plan as a “budget that lives within its means” and goes on to praise deep cuts to education that were avoided largely by Proposition 30.
VOICES:
“Continuing budget deficits mean California’s early learning programs are at risk for significant cuts,” says preschoolcalifornia.org. California has overlooked funding for its earliest learners who lack the resources needed to protest or gather in opposition. Another area having to do more with less is the court system. Chief Justice of California Tani Cantil-Sakauye has been open about the drawbacks courts are facing. In a state of the judiciary speech on Mar. 18, 2012 she said: “More
than ever, the judicial branch must serve as the safety net for a democratic and civil society. Yet, judges do not get to choose the number or kinds of cases that come before us.” “In fact, the cruel irony is that the economic forces that have led to budget reductions to the courts are the same ones that drive more of our residents to court. They seek help with evictions, debt collection, and modifications of child support orders.” In a more recent speech, the governor’s State of the State address on Jan. 24, Brown
expressed resignation towards even trying to find funding. “Fiscal discipline is not the enemy of our good intentions, but the basis for realizing them. It is cruel to lead people on by expanding good programs, only to cut them back when the funding disappears,” said the governor. While a good start, the version of the plan Gov. Brown receives back from lawmakers in June should have some serious changes. Maybe by then he’ll stop using Proposition 30 as a smokescreen for real issues.
Are online courses as good as in-person classes?
Staff Photographers: Alia Funaro, Jordan Harris, Teresa Mendoza, Caitlin KellyThompson, Lissett Matos, Jaime Morales, Mary Nurrenbern, Bridget Sanchez, Benjamin Simpson Faculty Adviser Warren Swil Photography Adviser Rachel Fermi Advertising Coordinator Anthony Richetts
“Online classes are more convenient especially if people have a tough schedule.” Cesar Castillo, English
“Yes, I would take a course online because it’s hard to get classes on campus.” Kristin Patton, undecided
“It’s better to have the teacher in class; it’s much better.” Yajaira Melchor, nursing
“It really depends on the student and if they are self motivated.” Julian Vieyai, computer science
“I was in Math Path and most of it was online. … It was a lot more helpful.” Katie Otto, undecided
“It’s better with a teacher. It’s more hands on than going online and just looking at the computer.” Victor De La O, kinesiology
“I’m currently taking an online class, and I think it’s better especially if it’s a hard class.” Andrew Gonzalez, biochemistry
“I would rather come to class. … I don’t want to procrastinate more than I already do if I don’t go to class.” Stephanie Gonzalez, biology
“I’m taking an online course right now and I would not recommend it because there’s a lot of work.” Saul Alturki, marketing
“Having the teacher present is a lot better because if I have questions I can also ask the teacher right away.” Pamela Klein, communications
The Courier is published weekly by the Pasadena City College Journalism Department and is a free‐speech forum. Editorial opinions and com‐ ments are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of the institution and its administra‐ tion, student government or that of the Pasadena Area Community College District. The Courier is written and produced as a learning experience for student writ‐ ers, photographers and editors in the Journalism Department. Phone: (626) 585‐7130 Fax: (626) 585‐7971 Advertising: (626) 585‐7979 pccCourierAds@yahoo.com Office: 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., CC‐208 Pasadena, CA 91106‐3215 The first copy of the Courier is free. Additional copies are $1 each © Copyright 2013 Courier. All rights reserved.
ONLINE POLL RESULTS Online, we asked: Did Michelle Obama's fash ion sense outshine the inaugural ceremony? Results as of 5 p.m. Wednesday: 60% Yes 40% No
vote at pccCourier.com
Reporting by: Karla Sosa, Photos by: Antonio Gandara
Note to Readers Letters to the Editor
The Courier welcomes letters to the editor. Letters should be about 300 words and may be edited by Courier staff. All letters must contain your full name and a correct daytime phone number. Letters can be delivered to the Courier office in CC 208 or sent by e‐mail to changchien_courier@yahoo.com.
Corrections The Courier staff endeavors to ensure accuracy in all aspects of its report‐ ing. If you believe we have made an error, please contact us at (626) 585‐7130 or via e‐mail to saul.nicholas@yahoo.com.
SCENE
Courier
January 31, 2013
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Sharing the love of music Music majors and hobbyists alike fill the campus with tunes
Concepcion Gonzalez / Courier Shahanng Hai, undecided, plays the mandolin in the Jameson Amphitheater, on Jan 29. Hai finds that being in Music 81B is helping her with her songwriting.
Mary Nurrenbern / Courier Sabrina Pirzada, jazz, plays an electric guitar for the individual instruction class in LL 130, on Jan 24. The class focuses on jazz, commercial and classical music where students perform and receive critique.
Mary Nurrenbern / Courier Joshua Cardenas, music, plays the saxophone during the individual instruction music class in LL 130, on Jan 24. The class focuses on jazz, contemporary and classical music.
Concepcion Gonzalez / Courier Giovanni Martinez, architecture and music, practices the trumpet in the Jameson Amphitheater, on Jan 29.
Mary Nurrenbern / Courier Bee Tan, music, plays the piano for the individual instruction class in LL 130, on Jan 24. The class focuses on jazz, commercial and classical music through critique.
Mary Nurrenbern / Courier Kaylon Reed, music, plays the drums during the individual instruction class in LL 130, on Jan 24. The class focuses on jazz, contemporary and classical music.
Makoto Lane / Courier The band practices on a Sunday afternoon in the Jameson Amphitheater in November..
Caitlin KellyThompson / Courier Corina Davis, left, practices while her twin sister Cassie Davis, plucks at the strings near the Mirror Pools, on Jan. 22.
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Courier
Arts & Entertainment
Artist in Residence show to begin Feb. 20
Instructor Nick Taggart, photographer and painter, at his home, previews his work “The Polaroid Years: Instant Photography and Experimentation”
LUIS RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer
Lissett Matos /Courier
Arts instructor participates in polaroid exhibit in New York ANDREW SALMI Staff Writer
Up the steep staircase made of stone and through the garden of many plants and trees, a house in Glassell Park holds the studio of Nick Taggart, a foundation drawing instructor, who has been at PCC for five years. "I felt that I needed to make a change," said Taggart referring to coming to teach at PCC. "It also has to do with artwork in which sometimes you need to branch off in different directions." Growing up in England, Taggart pointed out that he aspired to be an artist for as long as he can remember. "As a kid I would always draw. Then I think the idea of going to art school was more interesting to me than going to a regular university," he said reflecting back on his early years. "It was more of an unconventional thing to do, as the art schools in England especially in the 1960's and 1970's were very free form." In a collaboration project with his wife, Laura Cooper, polaroid pictures have
January 31, 2013
been taken over a span of about 20 years. "It was really Laura's idea. She felt like she had a sort of fear of falling asleep and the anxiety about not being able to fall asleep," said Taggart about what gave the couple the inspiration for the piece, which is called The Sleep Piece. With a picture before Laura wakes up every morning, Taggart presents a focus on the exterior of unconsciousness. Nick Taggart's work was chosen to be part of an art exhibition called "The Polaroid Years: Instant Photography and Experimentation" that will be held at the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center at Vassar University beginning in April. Taggart will show only a small portion of the estimated 5,000 polaroids at the exhibition. "It will be four panels of that piece, only about 120 photographs arranged in blocks of 30," he said. Outside of his own projects, Taggart offered words of advice. "It is important to do what you really believe in," he said. "Doing things that you connect with will help you grow and find your voice."
Despite major hurdles from the recent calendar change, Tom LaDuke will visit the campus as Artist in Residence beginning with his exhibit opening in the Art Gallery on Feb. 20. “[LaDuke] does extraordinary refined work in both painting and sculpture. It is work which is marked by extraordinary degree of technical virtuosity,” said Joseph Futtner, interim dean of visual arts and media studies. The artist in resident program has been successful in the past, especially the last one with Abelardo Morrell according to an article from March 18. Many remarked on LaDuke’s unconventional materials used in his works “He uses a very unusual collision of materials that one would not expect in an artwork,” said Futtner. “If you look at the individual images on his site, what you will see is a highly naturalistic rendition of some animal form or object, very often understood in a very different direction when you see the listing of the materials used to make that work. It’s that kind of interesting play on your expectations vs. what LaDuke delivers that I think is part of the reward of his creative effort.” Brian Tucker, director of the art gallery, is also well aware of LaDuke’s method. “He made a piece that was a veil, a thin veil made up of eyelash hairs in the exact pattern of cracks in some particular Renaissance painting,” said Tucker. “The kind of dedication to bringing into existence such a precise record of such ephemeral a thing as the cracks in a painting is extraordinary.” Melanie Willhide, photography instructor, was part of the selection committee. “We were also looking for someone local this year and somebody who also had a bit of mixed media involvement
Photo courtesy of Tom LaDuke “The Unbearable Tide” by Tom LaDuke, PCC’s Artist in Residence for 2013
because we had a photographer last year and [LaDuke is] primarily a sculptor and a painter,” she said. According to LaDuke’s biography at anglesgallery.com he received a bachelor in fine arts from nearby CSU Fullerton. In a first for the artist in residence program, the gallery exhibit will open long before the artist begins his residency week on March 18 to accommodate the new schedule after the elimination of winter session. “It’s a very different calendar and has required that we do a major reshuffling,” said Futtner. “He’ll have the residency but that will not coincide directly with the exhibition of his work and in some ways that’s a little bit of a departure.” It was hard, said Willhide. “We made it work but it was definitely really difficult.” “I think that’s he’s going to be a really wonderful artist in residence. He’s going to be an intense as well as generous person for our school to work with,” said Tucker.
Features
January 31, 2013
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A Look Back: with Nicholas Mather JONATHAN BILES Staff Writer
Nicholas Mather, religious studies instructor, has led a life full of unique experiences that eventually led him to PCC. Mather has traveled to Nepal, he has studied the mythology and history of Asian religions, and he uses Eastern traditions in his class, including meditation. “Students respond well to Eastern religion classes,” Mather said. “I try [to] connect my classes to a personal aspect using meditation. If you’re studying Asian traditions, you might as well meditate.” He believes that students benefit from meditation. "I’ve had students tell me that they felt something physically change in them after one of our meditations,” Mather said. “A student with ADD said that meditation helped him more than anything else he had tried.” Moses Sakaguchi, neuroscience, said that it helped him focus and prevent test anxiety. “If I’m feeling nervous about a test, I put down my pencil, and
count my breaths,” Sakaguchi said. “I learned that technique from Mr. Mather.” Mather started college at Pike’s Peak Community College in Colorado Springs. After returning from a European excursion, he enrolled in Metropolitan State University of Denver, graduated with a degree in philosophy, and attended the University of Denver for doctorate work. In 2005, Mather was hired by Loyola Marymount initially, moving him to Los Angeles, but found a teaching job at PCC as a religious studies instructor. After teaching at PCC for three years, he enrolled in the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco, in the “Philosophy, Cosmology and Consciousness Department” and is currently pursuing his doctoral degree there. Mather believes that attending college is necessary for critical thinking and reasoning skills. “Too often our educational system focuses on training instead of educating,” Mather said.
Alia Funaro / Courier Religious studies teacher Nicholas Mather uses meditation to teach his class.
“It should be a shared inquiry where everyone comes together and ask questions.” The one piece of advice he
would tell his young self would be to have faith and the rest will follow and as the mythologist Joseph Campbell said, “Follow
your bliss.” “If you follow that thing that makes you truly happy, you cannot fail,” Mather said.
Academic Senate plans for 16-week semester Continued from page 1
block scheduling will integrate courses, especially those in English and math, and help the deans of each division coordinate when their classes are
scheduled so that they will not overlap with other required courses. With new pressure on the committee, Hanvey asked if the current seven potential members would like to step down from it,
and laid out one of the new important tasks the committee will have to take on. “You’ll have an choice: are we going to have a schedule friendly to students and sacrifice some of the classroom issues or vice-
versa?” said Hanvey. Hanvey said in the interview that the Senate is in agreement it wants what will be best for students’ schedules in order to get the classes they need. Of the seven members originally requesting to be on the committee, two have already backed down. Confirming that they still want to serve on the committee were Carrie Anne Starbird of mathematics, Philip Ricards of the Social Sciences division, and Paul Jarrell of the Natural Sciences division.
Yolanda Mckay of the Visual Arts and Media Studies Division, who was appointed chairwoman of the committee at the Senate meeting on Jan. 14 decided to step down as the chair but decided to remain on the committee, feeling that someone else may be better qualified for the position. The executive board assured the Senate that while an 18 week calendar will not be considered for the 2013-14 academic year and possibly the following year, that the issue may come up again in the future.
New dean remains close to her roots Continued from page 1
faculty. The schedule is one primary responsibility alongside the catalog,” she said. “The other piece is working with a lot of different individuals in terms of enrollment management to see how we can improve in the areas of marketing and recruitment.” Her supervisor, Robert Bell, assistant superintendent and senior vice president of student and learning services, is excited to have Arellano on board. “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Dr. Arellano so far. She is energetic and committed to students and student success and is an outstanding addition to the college,” Bell said. “Dr. Arellano has a strong and extensive background working in both academic and student affairs at California Community Colleges that spoke well to providing the additional leadership PCC needs to meet the goals identified in our Educational master Plan (EMP) and the
requirements under the Student Success Task Force recommendations.” “I think she has a fresh look for ways that we can improve student success at PCC,” said AC Panela, Academic Senate vice president. Behind the strong work ethic, Arellano remains close to her Mexican roots. “I grew up in a border community, about two minutes from the border. I spent a lot of time in Mexicali,” she said. “We would go shopping or go to parties and events. I grew up in a really diverse border community. That was just the thing to do in high school.” Her office is adorned with many self-portraits of the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. “Something just captivated me about Kahlo, so I just started reading a lot about her,” Arellano said. “She was a fascinating woman, very much ahead of her time in terms of her talent and political views ... I hope I can make a difference for students, that’s my goal.”
COUR IER
January 31, 2012
SPORTS
Women’s hoops wins over Cerritos TIFFANY ROESLER Staff Writer
Should haves and could haves were the topic of post-game talk as the women’s basketball team narrowly defeated the Cerritos Falcons 54-51 on Jan. 23, leaving rowdy fans and spectators at the edge of their seats. With less then 50 seconds left in the game, Cerritos hit a deep three-pointer, giving the Lancers a one-point lead, 50-49. Sophomore point guard Shay Jackson was fouled seconds later, and sunk both free throws to gain an almost comfortable threepoint lead. Sophomore guard Sabrina Martinez capped the final score with her only three-pointer of the game and two free throws. Jackson had 10 assists, four points, and three steals. Martinez had a game high of five steals and added eight points. “I didn’t play nearly as good as I should have,” said Jackson who was in foul trouble throughout the game. “I think we rebounded really well. That was our whole thing: just to get rebounds, box out, and play as a team.” Three would be the magic number that night. No.11 Lancers improved to 15-5 overall and 5-3
in the South Coast Conference, and are tied for third place in conference with the fallen Falcons (11-8, 5-3). PCC struggled offensively, producing the same number of points each half: 31 percent from the field the first half, and only 29 percent in the second. Sophomore guard and threepoint specialist Stella Ghazarian led the team with 11 points – only one was from behind the arc – as well as four rebounds and two assists. “I did whatever I needed to do for my team,” said Ghazarian. “It doesn’t always mean scoring, it’s just doing whatever it takes to win. If that means standing at the corner and letting my guards go to work, then I’m going to let them.” Lancer defense was tested against shooting by Cerritos’ Angela Pena who went four-forfour in three-point field goals. But 16 steals to the Falcons’ five was where PCC shined defensively. “We really need be more disciplined in understanding it’s 30 seconds of defense and not just 10 seconds,” said Head Coach Joe Peron. “I was happy with our defense at times, and then not happy with it.” Despite the rollercoaster
Matt Chan/Courier Penetrating and collapsing the defense became a common occurrence for Lancer Shay Jackson against the Cerritos Falcons. Leading her team to a 54-51 victory, on Jan 23.
defense, freshman center Kaitlyn Parks had a game high of 18 rebounds, tallied eight points and two blocks while freshman forward Tyler Crockom had eight boards.
“I got a lot of boards, but my offense could’ve been better,” said Parks. “Our defense was really good, and we hustled every time. Even when we choked we still
remained calm and finished the game.” Not the best performance from the Lancers, but according to Peron “a win is a win no matter how you get them.”
Basketball’s comeback cut short JONATHAN BILES Staff Writer
Bridget Sanchez/Courier Sophomore Evan Brooks drills a three pointer against the rush of the opposing team on Jan. 23. The final score was 68-64, Cerritos.
The Lancers men's basketball team had a significant comeback but was unable to return from a second-half 21-point deficit, losing to the East Los Angeles College Huskies 68-64 on Jan. 23. The Lancers loss to ELAC, the eighth-ranked team in the state, gives them an overall record of 612 and a conference record of 2-3. “The second half was better than the first,” Head Coach Mike Swanegan Sr. said. "We came out cold and dug ourselves into a hole early." PCC was losing 15-3 after only five minutes of play and was down 55-34 after five minutes had elapsed in the second half. After shortening ELAC's lead to only two points, a few untimely PCC fouls and defensive slips allowed the Huskies to escape
with a victory. The Lancers played without freshman guard Samuel Stirgus, who is out with a knee injury. Sophomore guard Evan Brooks played but was hampered by his injury. Lancer trainer Alfonso Flores remains positive for the status of the team. "We've had a few injuries but nothing too serious," Flores said. "This is the healthiest team we have had in years, and it's not from a lack of effort that they have stayed healthy." PCC's comeback was fueled by spurts of defensive excellence, crucial second half three point and free throw shooting, and the leadership of freshman point guard Jeffery Dockett. Dockett played all but two minutes in the narrow loss and accounted for 16 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and four steals.
Track and Field chasing strong upcoming season ANDREW SALMI Staff Writer
As the men and women of the track and field team prepare for their first meet of the season, third-year Head Coach Larry Wade is full of excitement for the upcoming season and is eager to build on last year’s success. “Last year, we were able to get in the top three of conference, which was the first time in 15 years that we had done that,” he said of the 2012 team. “I was very pleased with that. We were able to transfer out 95 percent of our ath-
letes, so from an academic standpoint I would like to at 100 percent in transfers.” Coach Wade also made note of the successful results from last season’s Pasadena Games. “We had a fantastic Pasadena Games for the school,” said Wade. “Besides the fact of wanting more people to attend this season, I want to please the people who do come and that’s more important to me than anything else.” With regards to particular impact athletes from this season’s roster, Wade had a lot of praise for the new
additions to the team. “I had probably one of the largest recruiting classes we’ve ever had this year at PCC, since I put a lot of emphasis and interest into recruiting this season for men and women,” he said. Kymoni Bellamy, a freshman standout who ran a personal record in the 300-meter hurdles with a time of 38.1 seconds in 2012 while at Carson High School, had high praise for coach Wade. “He’s very good with motivating us for this season,” Bellamy said. “He’s most definitely passionate about us.”
Also contributing to the Lancers' effort was sophomore center Lorelle Martin's ten points, eight rebounds and two blocks along with freshman guard Gary Matthews' 11 points and sophomore forward Alec Tatum's nine defensive rebounds. Sophomore guard Mike Swanegan Jr., who has gone scoreless at home previously this season, went scoreless in the first half but responded in the second half with four three-point shots and two free throws. PCC was also the victim of some questionable, or missed, calls from the referees. Dockett shot a crunch-time three pointer and was knocked down while shooting but no foul was called. "The referees missed a lot of calls but that isn't why we lost," Dockett said. "We dug ourselves into a hole and tried to come back but it wasn't enough."
Sophia Amodia, computer science, leaps over a hurdle during the track team's practice at Robinson Stadium on Jan. 30. The team opens its season Feb. 14. Justin Clay /Courier