PCC Courier 04/04/13

Burger babes Laker Girls visit Carls Jr. Page 8» Volume 107, Issue 9

COURIER Pasadena City College

The independent student voice of PCC. Serving Pasadena Since 1915.

Online edition pccCourier.com Facebook PCC Courier Twitter @pccCourier April 4, 2013

Courier adviser put on leave

Dragon Dance

Newspaper staff shocked to hear Swil was placed on paid leave NICHOLAS SAUL Editor-in-Chief

Mary Nurrenbern / Courier Students from Developing Virtue Secondary School perform a dragon dance for Chinese Culture day on Tuesday, April 2.

Scene / Page 4 and 5

Rocha and Fraser spar on KPCC BENJAMIN SIMPSON Staff Writer

Questions of shared governance at PCC was the main talking point when President Mark Rocha and AS President Simon Fraser went head to head on Larry Mantle’s show on KPCC on Monday.

The original reason for the radio interview was the sudden removal of the campus newspaper adviser Warren Swil, who was placed on administrative leave last Thursday.

But the discussion quickly changed to the cancellation of the winter intersession at the beginning of the fall semes-

ter and problems with shared governance.

Fraser also discussed the problem students are having with of the cancellation of the winter intersession. When winter was cancelled, the classes were moved to summer, but four-year colleges do not accept summer classes for concurrent enrollment.

According to Fraser, some PCC students are receiving rejection letters from four-year colleges who did not know of the calendar change, despite the official name change of the first summer semester to ‘Spring’ in February, “The problem we are running into now is that we don’t know

whether or not it’s too late for the [four-year] colleges to change their minds on rejections.”

Rocha said that the Board of Trustees has added 810 classes and “there is not a single student at PCC who is unable to get his or her classes,” said Rocha.

“Some of the issues Simon [Fraser] referred to do exist and the administration is working hard.”

In the radio interview, Rocha stated that the decision to remove winter was made through shared governance.

“The record will show that the decision made by the board of trustees, Continued on page 7

Senate debates over no confidence vote ANTHONY RICHETTS Online Editor

In an extraordinary four-hour meeting, the Academic Senate debated whether or not to take up a no confidence vote on the leadership of PCC President Mark Rocha and his administration at their meeting on April 1.

Despite the date, this debate was by no-means a joke.

After an hour-long debate, Senator Melissa Michelson of the languages division, with overwhelming support of the voting members of the senate, forced a first-draft read of the no confi-

Speak out!

Are you legitimately scared of North Korea’s threats? vote at pccCourier.com

dence resolution to be put on the agenda for that day.

The first draft stated reasons why the Senate should have no confidence in Rocha including: That Rocha “has repeatedly violated the regulations and spirit of shared governance, has disrupted the efficiency and collegiality of campus life, and has perpetuated an atmosphere of distrust and intimidation through ethically questionable practices.”

Michelson expressed that it is necessary for the Senate to take up the vote before the end of the spring semester.

“Our prolonged silence can be inter-

preted as our acquiescence, disinterest or even approval of what is happening to shared governance at PCC,” Michelson said, pleading with the Senate.

However, Dustin Hanvey, the academic senate president expressed concern with the Senate taking up the matter.

“It is in my personal opinion that this is a bad idea. It will bring a lot of ill will toward this body,” said Hanvey. “But if we are going to do this, it should be done with the entire

Warren Swil, a journalism professor who advises the Courier was put on administrative leave on March 28, leaving the staff with the immense pressure of putting out a paper while grappling with the fact that the top story they had to investigate centered around their former adviser.

Swil has advised the Courier since 2007 and has been told that he is not allowed to comment on being placed on administrative leave.

“I’m not at liberty to speak about it,” Swil said.

He was advised in a letter that he should not talk to anybody about the matter.

On Wednesday however, Swil spoke to KPCC about his present state of mind. "This entire situation is enormously stressful," he told KPCC. "I have been placed under medical supervision."

Officially, Swil was placed on administrative leave due to “employee misconduct,” with the specific details yet to be released.

Joe Futtner, the dean of the visual arts and media studies division, said that Swil’s leave will continue “pending the outcome of an investigation.”

Futtner also added that the nature of the complaint made against Swil is, and will remain confidential.

The whole sequence of events of Swil’s departure caught the entire staff off guard. He was escorted off campus minutes before the Journalism class, leaving a room of curious journalists wondering why he wasn’t there.

As the story unfolded, Courier editors became suspicious after the newspaper adviser was put on leave just two days after President Mark Rocha visited the newsroom and made it clear that he had a problem with the Courier’s coverage.

While the timing seemed suspicious, the administration has made numerous statements to assure people that the decision was not retaliatory against the paper.

On Monday, Bob Bell, senior vice president and assistant superintendent of business and college services, refuted speculation that the decision to place Swil on administrative leave or that it had Continued on page 6

Warren Swil picks up his personal affects a day after being notified he was placed on administrative leave on March 29.

Lissett Matos / Courier

Continued on page 6

Rollin’

New tech

Cars aren’t the only thing used to get around.

PCC is getting ready to implement a new computer system.

Page 6»

Page 2»

Scan for pccCourier.com

2

News

Courier

April 4, 2013

From the Editor

Persevering under pressure: The presses roll on There was a feeling of apprehension in the newsroom last Thursday.

Minutes before the start of class, I saw Mr. Swil, the Courier adviser, and the VAMS dean, Joe Futtner, walking away from the classroom, and their conversation looked serious.

In the newsroom, people became uneasy; class was delayed and no one knew why.

Rachel Fermi, the photo adviser ended up as an impromptu sub. She didn’t say why Swil wasn’t there.

We would learn later she knew that Swil was put on paid administrative

because just two days prior, President Mark Rocha came to the newsroom and vocalized his problems with the Courier.

As our online article became viral, I personally began getting calls and emails from different newspapers, ABC news, KPCC, and the Student Press Law Center, asking me to tell my side of the story.

This was all new to us. We had always reported the news, but this time, we were the news.

Over the weekend I racked my brain, trying to make sure that we were covering the story fully, objectively, and to the best of our ability. My main concern was

leave, but she was not given a reason why. She had as many questions as the rest of us, but Swil is not allowed to talk to us.

After sifting through all the rumors and coming up with verifiable facts, we knew we had to write a story about it.

What we didn’t realize was how big the story would get. People began to speculate that the administration was flexing its muscle to bring down the Courier for what the administration perceived as poor coverage; effectively censoring a first amendment newspaper.

It was not too far-fetched to think that

that the newspaper continue its awardwinning work, and that the atmosphere in the newsroom remain ‘business as usual.’

The Courier has never experienced a situation as crazy as this. With finals around the corner, and the end of the semester approaching, no one knew that we would be tested like this. But we have more than proven ourselves to be ready.

We have already overcome this immense challenge. This paper is proof of that.

Nicholas Saul 2012 - 2013 Editor in Chief

New computer system sets to debut in summer TIFFANY ROESLER Staff Writer

until the summer, parts of LancerPoint are available to students now.

“Some portions of the Student Module in LancerPoint went live Feb. 28,” said Simoneschi. “This means that we are now taking admissions applications and financial aid SAR records through LancerPoint.”

A mock registration for the new system took place on March 26 through 28 to test the system.

Students went through the registration process allowing the college to collect data and modify the process in order to ensure

The anticipated $10.5 million Administrative Information System (AIS), LancerPoint will be available for summer 2013 registration period according to school officials.

In the meantime students will continue using the ancient LancerLink for late spring registration said Joe Simoneschi, Executive Director of Business Services in an email. Although students don’t get full on access

that it runs more smoothly, added Simoneschi. “The college has really come together to make this implementation happen,” he said. “The camaraderie is impressive and the fact that we are getting this system in place in a relatively short period of time with such success amazes me.

Inputting a new technical system like LancerPoint would normally take 18 to 24 months, but the process has gone much faster than that, according to Superintendent President Mark Rocha

“[LancerPoint] is way ahead of schedule,” said Rocha. “[It’s] the fastest most aggressive installation we’ve ever had.”

In addition to the mock registration, there are various avenues of communication to help students and faculty get acquainted with LancerPoint.

“We have monthly forums, biweekly coffee talk meetings with department super users, a blog on the Pulse, and a twitter account,” said Simoneschi. “[This] speaks to the commitment that we all have to make the student experience the best it can possibly be.”

Caitlin KellyThompson / Courier Arlene Brenes doing the mock registration for the LancerPoint system in the AS Office, March 26.

Panel presented new plans for accreditation needs TIFFANY ROESLER Staff Writer

CSULB SUMMER SESSIONS 2 0 13

No formal admission to CSULB required

Earn units toward your degree

Two 6 - Week Sessions May 28–July 5

(S1S)

July 8–August 16

(S3S)

Enroll on a “space available” basis

One 12 - Week Session May 28–August 16

(SSD)

25 New Online Summer Classes

Registration begins April 8 Call: (800) 963–2250 ext. 60001 for more information. www.ccpe.csulb.edu/summer email: CCPE-info@csulb.edu FIND US ON FACEBOOK

California State University, Long Beach College of Continuing and Professional Education

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

PCC is due for its next accreditation team visit in December 2014, leaving only a short span of time for the college to repair its deficiency in institutional planning that has left the school on warning status for the last 10 years.

An accreditation-linking plan and planning rubric was presented to the Budget Resource Allocation Standing Committee (BRAC) by instructor Stephanie Fleming and Matthew Jordan, interim associate dean of general education, at its meeting March 28. The plan would help the school’s planning meet accreditation needs. It would also work as a self-evaluation tool.

The college has been struggling with issues of planning since 1993, according to Jordan.

Within the past decade, it has been under a federally imposed mandate that gives only two years to fix the college’s deficiency.

Simply put, the college does not have adequate data to efficiently allocate its resources.

“I think we have a lot of good things going on at the campus right now, but a lot of people don’t know what’s going on or who came up with them,” said John Wood, director of the Learning Assistance Center. “We need to get everyone to know what’s going on.”

“The college was on warning for two years because it was unable to respond to the original recommendations of the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges,” said Superintendent President Mark Rocha at a press conference held on March 26.

The concept of integrated planning will study past and current data such as student learning outcomes and other programs. Then that compilation of information would determine the budget allocation decisions, Jordan explained. “All of our resource allocations tie back to our mission, which would tie back to our Educational Master Plan,” he said.

The importance of collaboration in the developed process was emphasized by Jordan, who said it would be “totally transparent.” In order to enforce the transparency of the integrated planning process, Fleming and Jordan invited BRAC to join the Institution Effectiveness Committee, and the Planning and Priorities Committee in a three-hour retreat, on April 26 to educate people about the concepts of integrated planning.

“We have to have agreement on what that process will be,” said Robert Miller, senior vice president assistant superintendent of business and college services. “We need to get our house in order.”

“We have a long way to go,” added Wood.

Courier/Mary Nurrenbern Attendees listen to a presentation at the BRAC meeting, March 28.

April 4, 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 Assist. Arts & Entertainment Editor Vivian Meza Features Editor Luis Rodriguez Assist. Features Editor Shelly Maldonado Sports Editor Philip McCormick Assist. Sports Editor Jonathan Biles 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

Opinion

Courier

3

Was the Iraq War necessary?

United States intervention Military efforts excessive, ridded the world of a tyrant costly and utter waste of time JONATHAN BILES Staff Writer

The month of March marked the 10th anniversary of the United States' military involvement in the nation of Iraq.

The war has been an arduous process with trillions of dollars spent and thousands of both American and Iraqi lives lost.

While this military endeavor is widely regarded as a horrific combination of misinformation and arrogance, some good has actually come from our involvement in that nation.

Saddam Hussein was one of the most ardent human rights violators in the modern world.

Hussein regularly ignored United Nations Security Council resolutions and was guilty of "flagrant human rights violations" during his time as the leader of Iraq.

Additionally, Hussein was condemned for war crimes, most notably, the "largest-scale chemical weapons attack against a civilian population in modern times" in the Kurdish town of Halabja.

During Hussein's trial, he was charged with genocide and found guilty for the deaths of

VOICES:

50,000 Iraqi people.

The problem with the Iraq war is not that America invaded.

The problem was that after America invaded and won the war, the U.S. tried to govern and rebuild the country. The military is not built for that. The American military is the most lethal, most efficient fighting force in the world, and it "conquered" Iraq in a very short amount of time.

On May 1, 2003, President George W. Bush declared an end to major combat in Iraq, according to the State Department.

That was almost 10 years ago.

The military efforts of the war in Iraq took mere months; it's the rebuilding of nations that has taken years and still continues to this day. And that's why Iraq has become such a fiasco.

Many American and Iraqi lives have been lost, and the majority of observers blame the Bush administration for these for which they have every right.

But, Iraq has to be seen as somewhat of a success. The United States rid the world of a despot and brought a semblance of stability and democracy to a nation in the most volatile region on Earth.

PHILIP MCCORMICK Staff Writer

It has been a decade since America invaded Iraq. At first, the majority of Americans were for the war, but 10 years later, a poll conducted by CBS news showed that 59 percent of Americans think that the war was a mistake. The Bush Administration should never have gotten us into a war that had no end in sight.

The war was just one big train wreck. Our main reasoning for going into Iraq was under the illusion that "weapons of mass destruction" existed, and we had to find them.

The nuclear weapons program didn't exist and even though we did thwart Saddam Hussein, the goals for the war kept changing.

The last thing anyone can say is that Iraq was a success for the United States.

President Bush told Americans that we would be out of Iraq within a few months. He also said that the war wouldn't financially cost Americans much, but that was not the case.

With so much money fueling the war, it was only a matter of time before the expenditures

started to have an effect on the country’s economy.

Just about $6 trillion will have gone into this war. In the end, sending thousands upon thousands of jobs down the drain and also taking money away from healthcare, education, and other areas that could have used the money more than the Iraq war. These factors eventually led to a loss of the people’s seal of approval.

There are lessons we have to remember from this. Firstly, the media should take to heart that they screwed up by not being objective from the beginning.

They should have fact checked their sources like they should have, instead of being hand-led by the government to believing fabricated, preliminary facts (anyone remember the reporter from The New York Times, Judith Miller?).

Secondly, the government shouldn't think that just because we have so much military power, that the military can exercise its power without limits.

Let's try not to make these mistakes again. America can illafford another conflict as botched up as the Iraq war.

Should gay marriage be legalized in America?

Staff Writers: Aerika Dave, Tiffany Herrera, Adam Mitchell, Tiffany Roesler, Andrew Salmi, Benjamin Simpson, Karla Sosa Staff Photographers: Jordan Harris, Teresa Mendoza, Caitlin KellyThompson, Lissett Matos, Mary Nurrenbern, Benjamin Simpson Faculty Adviser Mikki Bolliger Photography Adviser Rachel Fermi Advertising Coordinator Anthony Richetts 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

“Yes, it’s a fundamental human right and there are economic rights that are not given to queer couples in the US.” Edwin Rodriguez, history

“I don’t think that is the responsibility of the Supreme Court.”

Ekaterina Savchenkova, math instructor

“I think it should. I think everyone should have the right to love, whatever their preference is.”

Nicholle Barreras, TVR

“People shouldn’t be discriminated against.”

Adam Wong, business

“Yeah, I definitely think it should. There’s really nothing wrong with it. It’s not that big of an issue.”

Cullen Martinez, music

“Equal rights for equal states.

You’re not going to be able to satisfy everyone. I think it should be put to a vote by state, not national.”

David Lindley, film

“Yes, it should be legalized. It seems dumb not to [legalize it]. Why should anyone care about a marriage if they are not a part of it?”

Raven Palomera, geology

“I don’t think it should. Things are different from the past in the 20th century. The Supreme Court wants its hands in everything.”

David Medina, business

“People should be able to do as they please. If people are against it, then that means they are trying to control our free will.”

Nick Phelps, theater arts

“It should be permitted because the government has no place in the matter. It should be equal.”

Brian Mead, computer science

Fax: (626) 585‐7971

ONLINE POLL RESULTS

Advertising: (626) 585‐7979 pccCourierAds@yahoo.com

Online, we asked: Should the restrictions on gay marriage be lifted by the Supreme Court?

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.

Results as of 5 p.m. Wednesday: 85% Yes 14% No

vote at pccCourier.com

Reporting by: Shelly Maldonado, Madison Miranda Photos by: Matthew Chan, Concepcion Gonzalez

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

April 4, 2013

Matthew Chan / Courier

Enter the dragon John Novak / Courier

Teresa Mendoza/Courier

Paul Ochoa Staff Writer

Matthew Chan / Courier

It was an impressive sight of acrobatics, sound and color Wednesday afternoon as the Developing Virtue Secondary School took center stage to perform traditional Chinese dances and songs.

The performance consisted of three acts, the Lion and Dragon Dance and the 24 Seasons Drumming. The lion costumes were elaborate with two kids operating each lion; working them in such a majestic and acrobatic way.

Arthur Wong, architecture, appreciated the beauty of the Lion dance and realized the dangers of some of the acrobatics.

“It was beautiful, [but] it’s difficult to do and can be dangerous,” said Wong.

The second performance, which was the Dragon Dance, consisted of multiple performers swirling and whirling a dragon prop, which displayed a stunning array of colors.

Allen Cheng, economics, enjoyed seeing the Dragon Dance, as it was the first time he’d ever seen it being performed.

“The Lion Dance is pretty normal for the Chinese culture, but this is my first time seeing the Dragon Dance,” said Cheng.

Thump, thump, thump, thump, crash were the sounds of

Mary Nurrenbern / Courier

the final performance, which was the 24 Seasons, Drumming; which the kids performing had learned in Malaysia. The 24 drums in the performance were meant to be representations of the 24 agricultural seasons according to the event’s emcee.

Christian Santos, physics, tuned in to the last performance as it had caught his attention on the way to class.

“It was pretty good, I heard it as I was going to class,” said Santos.

The Cross Cultural Center, language and math divisions, Buddhist club, global club, Mercedes-Benz Bin-Hang, Motor Ltd., pi club and TASA, sponsored the event. Before the performance President Mark Rocha, PCC faculty members and sponsors of the event received a certificate of congressional recognition in promoting Chinese culture from a representative of 27th District Congresswoman Judy Chu. “Tommy Tseng was here representing Congresswoman Chu, to present the certificates to our PCC president, several faculty members and sponsors,” said Dr. Yu-Chung ChangHou, assistant math professor and one of the organizers of the event.

Dr. Chang-Hou hopes to continue this type of communication between Eastern and Western cultures in the future.

Matthew Chan / Courier

Mary Nurrenbern / Courier

5

Matthew Chan / Courier

6

Features

Courier

April 4, 2013

Cyclists, boarders brave streets en route to class MADISON MIRANDA Staff Writer

Driving is not for everyone, so some students have turned to skateboards and bicycles to get them to class.

One reason why students prefer these ways of reaching their destinations instead of driving is because of the cost. Driving requires paying for gas, insurance, parking permits and the general upkeep of the vehicle.

Cycling and skateboarding on the other hand, don’t need as much financially to be effective.

“In [Southern California] if you are under 25, insurance is sky high, so it’s unwise for college students [to drive],” said Charles Loop, business major. Loop is a cyclist who bikes approximately 30 miles a day.

Michael Maiden, liberal arts major, decided to skateboard because it’s cheaper and easier to

maneuver. He isn’t much of a skater; he just uses it to get to PCC. He bikes to his job and drives for long travel.

“I don’t want to put that much money into a car,” said Maiden. “I chose this means of transportation because it’s small and I can carry it everywhere.”

Long boarders James Juarez, art major, and August Licano, art and music major, would rather skate than drive. They skate from Whittier to PCC for their classes. “[I have] no gas money so it helps a lot,” said Juarez about skating.

“There’s a lot to miss out on when you’re driving in a car,” said Licano. “With skating, you take things slower.”

Some students like the health benefits these forms of transportation offer. The physical effort required makes these not only efficient ways of getting around, but they double as a chance for

John Novak / Courier Jose Remes, business management, cruises through the halls of the CC Building as he heads back to class. "I had a dream…that Stacy Peralta told me to wear short shorts and to ride the halls of PCC," said Remes.

some exercise. Also, many find it a good way to meet people with like interests.

“[Skating] keeps your reflexes quick,” said Juarez.

“It keeps you in shape, looks cool, and [helps you make] friends,” said Licano.

“I’ve met more people because of my bike in a positive fashion than any other time in my life,” said Loop.

One obstacle skaters and cyclists encounter is the need to transport things such as textbooks and school projects. For Loop, this is not an issue.

“I plan ahead for transporting stuff,” he said. Cyclists use bike racks, saddlebags and baskets when they need to bring stuff with them.

Licano and Juarez said it’s not as easy for skaters. “It’s hard to keep up speed,” says Juarez.

Licano added that it was “annoying.”

Another issue is dealing with harsh weather, but Loop also has a solution for that.

“I wear a full rain suit, rubber pants and [rain] boots,” he said.

“Rain or shine, it’s time to ride.”

Maiden doesn’t like skating when it rains. “You have to deal with back splash.”

A common problem for both skaters and cyclists is dealing with pedestrians and drivers.

Whether it’s drivers not checking before they turn or texting while they drive, skaters and cyclists must be alert.

“Cars don’t ever look right so we almost get hit every day,” said Licano.

“The main difference between [biking] and driving is that you can’t be on your phone,” said Loop. “When you are riding, you are limited to riding.”

“You have to dress like a slot machine in Vegas for people to see you,” Loop said. He says bikers are supposed to wear bright colors and reflective clothes to be safe, which he does.

Campus now equipped with 24‐hour bike station Students now have access to bike maintenance spot KARLA SOSA Staff Writer

PCC is becoming bicycle friendly by having an outdoor bicycle repair station.

Students will now be able to fix their bikes in campus. “The fix-it station is also intended to make regular bicycle maintenance more accessible to students. There are now some essential tools available on campus, 24-hours,

seven days a week,” said Juan Diego Ashton, Associated Students vice president of sustainability.

The Associated Students are excited to be one of the first to establish this sort of amenity in the San Gabriel Valley, said Ashton.

“The Fix-It station cost $1,082. There is only one fix-it station, and it is located in the Quad out front of the L building in between the bike racks. Another fix-it station will open soon,” Ashton said.

“Several students have come up to me and thanked me for installing the station. I have currently requested a

second order for a fix-it station to be placed at a different location on campus,” said Ashton.

Gabriel Reyes, Kinesiology, was using the fit-it station to change the brakes of his bike. “I’m glad they have this, I’m saving money by fixing my bike on my own. My brakes cost me $4; if I would have gotten it fixed at the shop it would have cost me $12. Right now I’m saving money,” said Reyes.

Reyes, rides his bike to school from Altadena, “Gas is getting expensive.

By riding my bike, I save money,” said Reyes.

Concepcion Gonzalez / Courier Alexis Fung, geography, uses the Fix-it stations by the L building, to put in air in her tires on Wed.

Adviser placed on leave Continued from page 1

anything to do with the Courier’s recent coverage.

“I made the decision that placing Prof. Swil on paid leave was legally required and was necessary for the protection of the complainant,” Bell said in a statement. “It would be an invasion of Prof. Swil’s privacy, and that of the complainant, to publish details of the allegations in order to let the college community know this has absolutely nothing to do with retaliation.”

However, in the same statement to the campus, Bell wrote that the school’s general counsel, Gail Cooper, informed FA President Roger Marheine of the specific details of the complaint, a stark contrast to their earlier assertion of placing individual privacy as paramount importance.

Marheine would not comment on what Cooper told him.

The complainant confirmed with the Courier that he did make a formal complaint against Swil, but did not go into detail about it. The complainant wishes to remain anonymous, and referred the reporter to his lawyer for comment. The attorney, Kevin Rehwald, also declined to comment.

The Faculty Association also chimed in, chastising the administration who they say made the decision to remove Swil was made “without notice.”

“It is regrettable in the extreme that the ones to suffer most from Swil’s forced departure are the students,” the FA statement reads.

“The administration’s callous disregard for their interests speaks volumes about its priorities.”

Senate considering no confidence vote Continued from page 1

faculty and anonymously, because if we do it publicly it’ll put individual senators on the public record on this issue. It is a mistake to do this this way and a mistake to do it today.”

Hanvey stated that General Counsel Gail Cooper expressed that there will be legal consequences if the vote was taken in this manner, which include seeking to make any vote they take on the matter null and void.

To some of the senators, the threat of legal action did not seem to matter.

Senator Paul Jarrell of the Natural Sciences Division said the Academic Senate should take up the vote due to the lack of shared

governance on campus.

“We’re being pushed around and not being heard,” said Jarrell, “We have every right to state that this body has lost its power and it is our obligation to say that. If we’re afraid to do that, then we shouldn’t be sitting here. We have to be able to make the easy choices and the hard choices.”

The No Confidence resolution is currently in the editing process and a second draft is slated to be debated and brought to a final vote at the next Academic Senate meeting on April 15. However, the ultimate decision for it to even appear on the next meeting’s agenda will come down to Hanvey and the rest of the Senate’s Executive Committee.

Hanvey could not state at the time whether it will be included or not.

April 4, 2013

Courier

Technological invasion gets mixed reactions ANDREW SALMI Staff Writer

With the rapid increase of quality in technology and the demand students have for it, professors and instructors at PCC have slowly become more tolerant of technology's presence in the classroom. Whether it be iPhones, iPads, laptops or other electronic devices, the casual replacement of paper to take notes digitally in lectures has shown a rapid increase.

Jose Cortez, who teaches introduction to business management at PCC as an adjunct instructor, believes that technology could serve a very positive role in the teaching environment.

“If an instructor is dynamic and interactive in the classroom, the students will find him or her engaging,” said Cortez. “They will focus on the lecture and use the computers, phones and iPads to look up information and then become part of the lecture. I have several classes were I allow the use of technology and I take advantage of this because the students can help me to look up information.”

As technology continues its growth, the popularity of social networking such as Facebook and Twitter have also started to integrate themselves into the classroom. Katie Datko, the instructional designer for distance education at PCC, stated that more professors are starting to use technology in lectures because their students are strongly familiar with the devices and services.

“In a lot of lectures now some

professors may have their students tweet during the lecture into the course,” said Datko.

“There's a real-time feedback with dialogue opening up in lecture classes, which wasn't there before. I think that's the greatest advantage.”

However, some instructors and professors are still very hesitant to allow the use of electronics in their classes by students.

With the advantages of technology within lectures., the disadvantages follow closely behind.

For example, some teachers are afraid that by allowing students to use technology in the classroom, they can distract themselves and their fellow classmates by texting, using social networking sites, and even playing video games. Jose Bava, biology instructor, has a strict policy listed in his syllabus against cell phone usage during his lectures.

“Let me clarify also that the no cell phone use is for the time in which I am lecturing,” said Bava.

“I am not against cell phone use when people are working in the lab, but I do consider the use of a cell phone (for social networking and texting) a complete lack of respect when the professor is lecturing.”

Cortez takes a more flexible approach towards technology in his lectures.

“There are those classes that I do not allow any kind of technology because of the students' lack of focus or engagement,” said Cortez. “I first analyze my class and based on that analysis, I decide if I will allow them to use their equipment or not.”

THIS MOMENT BEGAN WITH A CHOICE.

,I GLSWI XS QEOI E HMJJIVIRGI 'LSWI XS KIX E HIKVII 8S PIEVR RI[ WOMPPW %RH MX [EW EPP QEHI TSWWMFPI F] XLI 2EXMSREP +YEVH

)(9'%8-32 &)2)*-87 7/-007 86%-2-2+ 4%68 8-1) 7)6:-')

'SRXEGX 7IVKIERX 0SYMI 1EVXMRI^ EX

1-800-GO-GUARD

Rocha spars on KPCC Continued from page 1

was fully consulted and went through the proper shared governance processes,” said Rocha.

Fraser responded by saying, “The AS tried to get this through a shared governance committee,” said Fraser. “The administrative response to this was that it wasn’t our purview to do that, it was a union issue. Our attempts to get it through these processes were rebuffed.”

Rocha discussed how the change in the calendar was not an issue for the faculty or the AS but it was only between the union and the district. Rocha said “the calendar was not an issue for the Academic Senate/Faculty Senate but was an issue for negotiation between the district and the union.”

Professor Daniel Hamman, spoke later on Monday at the Academic Senate, about the comments made by Rocha in the radio interview. “I have been on the Academic Senate for six years; I am the co-lead negotiator with the Faculty Association. , [and] I am not aware of that issue ever being turned over by

the Faculty Association.”

In the radio interview, Fraser said that even if the Academic Senate said that it was a union issue, “that does not make it exclusively a union issue.” He went on to paraphrase from the California Code of Regulations Title V. “These are the elements that students have to be consulted on, any change in the college that affects students.”

In the interview Rocha also discussed the administrative leave of the newspaper adviser Warren Swil. “The publication of the Courier will go on as usual, as it has for decades,” said Rocha. “The Board, I, Dr. Bell, the entire administration, support the Courier. It will go on business as usual. There is a complete firewall between the administration and the newspaper.”

When asked if the stories in the Courier were an accurate depiction of the climate on campus, Rocha answered with, ““I do not.

I don’t think [the Courier] has taken in the entire context of a labor dispute with the teachers union,” into consideration.

Have your AA Degree? eg ee e You Y ou o Can Attend Law School.

Trinity Law School upon completion You Y ou o can attend Trinity of your Associates Degr ee. Go straight to law school.

Degree. eat education with money,, and get a gr great Save time, save money FREE!* unlimited opportunities. Apply today FREE !*

*Application fee waiver code: JCA213 morre information: www For more www.tls.edu .tls.edu

7

COUR IER

April 4, 2013

SPORTS

Baseball breaks 9-game losing streak ANDREW SALMI Staff Writer

After nine straight losses, the depressing streak finally ended for Lancers baseball as the team cruised to a 6-3 victory over Cerro Coso College on March 27 at Jackie Robinson Memorial Field. Sophomore starting pitcher Evan Stransky was in complete control for the 7 1/3 innings he pitched, striking out five batters while only giving up one run.

“He’s really starting to come into his own as a starting pitcher,” said Assistant Coach David Walters. “He’s so focused on what he does.”

The Lancers were able to provide Stransky early run support by scoring twice in the second inning and twice in the third inning. They added another run in the fourth inning to jump out to a 5-0 lead over Cerro Coso.

“It’s always easier on a pitcher when he can pitch with some cushion and feel relaxed,” said

Head Coach Evan O’Meara.

Freshman left fielder Kori Grant had the Lancers' first two RBI's on the day when he singled in the second inning. Grant also stole two bases as the Lancers ran wild on the bases, stealing an impressive seven bases on the day.

“We knew that their catcher was not very aggressive with being able to throw our guys out,” said O’Meara. “They weren’t able to hold down our run game.”

In addition to Grant, also providing RBI's for PCC were sophomore right fielder Anthony Martinez, sophomore center fielder Charles Smith, sophomore first baseman David Halstead, and sophomore shortstop Josh Clark. Getting out to an early lead was important to the Lancers, who have struggled on offense this season with maintaining leads for their pitchers.

“It’s nice to get out there and feel confident,” said Clark.

“Anything we can build on,

Softball dominates

we’ll take at this point.”

Also one factor that enabled them to pull out the victory was the Lancers ability to not make mistakes on defense. They did not commit any errors the whole game.

With the solid victory against Cerro Coso College, the Lancers look to string together more wins against Cerritos College.

The first game of the three-game series is a home game at Jackie Robinson Memorial Field on Tuesday, April 2 at 2:30 p.m.

Column

A whole new Dodger Blue JONATHAN BILES Assist. Sports Editor

In March, 2012, a company called the Guggenheim Partners - together with former Lakers' great Magic Johnson and other power players - purchased the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2.5 billion in cash. This was a moderately frugal purchase for a corporation that owns over $170 billion in assets, but it was finally a sign of hope after a decade of disappointment for Los Angeles' longest tenured professional sports franchise.

Magic Johnson and the Guggenheim Partners did not pay that much money for the Dodgers to lose. They want to win, now.

After failing to make the playoffs last season, this year's team is the embodiment of "A Whole New Blue." The motto is on t-shirts, billboards, and every corner of the newly renovated Dodger Stadium - a stadium into which the Guggenheim Partners invested $100 million during the offseason.The Dodgers have added more than $600 million in salaries since Guggenheim Partners bought the team last spring. If they do indeed have a spending limit, we've yet to see it.

On Opening Day 2013, the Dodgers lived up to their expectations.

After pitching eight scoreless innings, Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw took the lead for the Dodgers himself, hitting a solo home run - the first of his career. The Dodgers increased their lead later in the eighth inning, ultimately defeating San Francisco 4-0.

Even though there are innumerable questions concerning this season, the Dodger name means something again.

It's time for Dodger baseball and with this ownership group and the team that they have assembled, Dodger baseball is in good hands.

A dominating win calls for a celebratory post game team dive for the PCC women's softball team.

Lancers defeated LA Harbor at Robinson Park by a score of 11-3 on Thursday.

Matthew Chan / Courier

Visit pccCourier.com for full article.

Laker Girls make appearance at Carl’s Jr. PHILIP MCCORMICK Sports Editor

A crowd of PCC students attended a meet-and-greet with Los Angeles Laker Girls Teresa and Jacquelyn at Carl’s Jr. across the street from the school on Colorado Boulevard.

The Laker Girls were taking photos with fans and signing autographs. “[It was] such a great turn out,” said Stephan Goldberg, Carl’s Jr. manager.

“What’s better than burgers and hot women? It’s a great way to promote both the Lakers and Carl’s Jr.” Some students had been waiting for the Laker Girls for a while.

“I knew they were going to be here about two weeks ago,” said Bryan Aguillon, kinesiology. “I’m a huge Lakers fan and wanted to come out and show my support. I can only hope that they end the season strongly.”

To other students who were just going out for lunch, the event had been a complete surprise.

“I happened to walk into the restaurant to grab a bite and they were here,” said Jose Palacius, accounting. “It will be cool to get a photo with them and brag about it with a friend [of mine.]”

Teresa and Jacquelyn were sporting their Carl’s Jr. outfits at the event, smiles never faded as the line wrapped around

the inside of the building at times. Their public relations team gave out t-shirts, hats and foam basketballs to the first few fans that got there.

The Lakers, on the other hand are not looking so ‘hot’ right now, sitting in 9th place, the team is a game and a half out of the eight seed, looking for a playoff berth. They have been plagued by injuries through out the season and have not been able to connect on the basketball court.

With all these troubles, Laker fans still have hope in their team. “I can only hope that they end the season strongly,” said Aguillon. “They should have a chance if they make it into the playoffs.”

Laker Girls visited the Carls Jr. across the street from PCC to promote the LA Lakers basketball team.

Cheerleaders signed autographs and pose for pictures with fans and PCC students Tuesday.

Matthew Chan / Courier