COURIER
Soccer
Pasadena City College
Men’s team loses Page 8» Volume 106, Issue 4
The independent student voice of PCC. Serving Pasadena Since 1915.
Online edition pccCourier.com Facebook PCC Courier Twitter @pccCourier September 20, 2012
Two sessions planned for summer term
Getting ready to transfer
Twelve week semester set to begin May 13 NICHOLAS SAUL Editor-in-Chief
Two sessions will now be offered for the upcoming 2013 summer semester. Senior Vice President and Assistant Superintendent of Academic and Student Affairs Robert Bell confirmed that the summer term will be twelve weeks long in which it will be split into two sixweek sessions—the first one starting on May 13, and the second on June 24. “This will allow for classes to be scheduled that will be either eight weeks or twelve weeks in
Above, students gather around the USC booth to gather information on transfering at University day in the Quad on Sept. 17. Right, eager students crowd the booths ready to get information on the colleges they hope to trasnsfer to.
TERESA MENDOZA Staff Writer
Survey shows most colleges in distress Community colleges responding to a survey conducted by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office paint a picture of drastic financial distress throughout the Golden State. Of the 78 colleges responding to the survey, 85 percent indicate that over 472,000 students were on waiting lists, with an average of over 7,000 students per college on a waiting list. Sixty-four of the responding colleges say they will not offer winter session in the 2012-13 academic year and 13 colleges will cancel summer session in 2013. There are 112 community colleges in California making it the nation’s largest community college system. Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott, former PCC president, was pessimistic in an interview on Sept. 11. “If PCC doesn’t cut classes the
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college will go bankrupt,” he said. “The state won’t give the college significant [additional] money, but if we don’t train our students now California won’t have the work force it needs in the future?” Reduction of staff has occurred at 87 percent of the colleges in the survey, with 21 percent being the average staff reduction per college. Part-time faculty cuts were made at 75 percent of responding colleges. PCC student Sneferu Hines, communications, said he’s worried. “With all these cuts students will not be able to finish their education and life will become a struggle,” he said. “Students dreams and aspirations won’t happen.” In the midst of drastic budget cuts, President Mark Rocha was more optimistic. “One of the concerns is that the students are scared, but shouldn’t drop-out. Don’t give up hope,” he said. “All students currently enrolled will be able to get their classes.
Maybe not right away but they will get the classes they need for their programs,” Rocha said. Both Scott and Rocha said they hope that Proposition 30 – a ballot measure on the November ballot authorizing temporary tax increases – passes. “We will get some of this funding back if Proposition 30 passes” Rocha said. Jason Carman, geology, is looking at alternatives “Some of my friends are thinking of transferring to a private college,” he said. “It might be more expensive but atleast they’ll have their classes. Many are just so frustrated and are giving up on PCC.” The budget cuts affect almost everyone on campus. Facility maintenance worker Jose Barreto expressed concern for his job and said in Spanish “The students education comes first, as it should, and I’ll leave my job in God’s hands.”
A late spring session will be scheduled to accommodate international students who had made arrangements to travel or work during the eliminated winter session, officials said. Vice President of Instruction Robert Bell explained that 12-week classes will be offered during the Spring semester allowing International students to enroll in 12 units or more. These classes will begin in midFebruary and conclude along with other classes at the end of the semester in May Faye Luo, fashion, had planned to travel home during the winter session and decided to work around the new calendar. “I want to travel to Taiwan so I have to start school late [in] spring session,” said Lou. The Office of Instruction has received numerous emails from international students with concerns about enrolling in classes for the coming spring semester since they had made arrangements to travel out of the country during what would have been the winter session, according to Bell. “The [12-week] class sessions
All aboard!
Black arts
Students ‘tap it’ with discount transit passes
Film class looks back on classic noirstyle movies
Page 2»
Continued on page 7
Students from afar forced to adapt
Photos by Alexis Villanueva / Courier
RAYMOND BERNAL Staff Writer
duration,” Bell said in an e-mail. The two-session summer semester was initially announced in a press release in faculty/ staff mailboxes, and in an advertisement published in last week’s issue of the Courier. This is a stark contrast to what was previously said by President Mark Rocha who initially said that despite the cancellation of winter, there would be no guarantee that there would be a twosession summer semester, or that there would even be classes at all.
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will be offered in the same manner as Spring Forward classes in the 2012 Spring semester,” he said. International students have their classes guaranteed so they never have problems with their travel, according to the Assistant Director of International Students Amy Yan. In addition, priority registration will be available to international students for these classes according to Bell. Art major Eduardo Remis, from Mexico, said that the new calendar is more convenient because he can now graduate after the summer session. “I may have needed the winter [session], but it is basically the same because now we have two summer sessions,” Remis said. A majority of international students like Rachel Xiao Tong Wang, psychology, found out last week about the change in the academic calendar and realized she would not be traveling home to China. “There is not enough time to travel,” said Wang.
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News
Courier
September 20, 2012
Police Blotter
Jack Scott returns to Pasadena
Sept. 7 A student was referred to Psychological Services after saying strange things about Italians trying to “get him.” The student then proceeded to walk back and forth in the cafeteria while yelling at other people.
RAYMOND BERNAL Staff Writer
Sept. 10 Staff reported a transient destroying the garden on the south side of the L building. An officer responded to the incident, but he was unable to locate the transient. Sept. 11 A student reported that a man was following her at Shatford Library for three days. Officers responded to the incident and captured the man as he fled from the north side of the library. After the person was transported to the police station, he admitted that he followed the woman because he thought she was cute. The man was admonished of the consequences of the repeated behavior and was then released. Sept. 11 Students reported a man, not affiliated with the campus, in the quad holding a sign with writing that was offensive to women, various ethnic groups, and those with opposing religious or moral beliefs. When officers responded to the incident, the man was debating with students who had gathered around him. Officers and cadets remained near the subject until he left an hour later. Sept. 12 A woman was asked to empty her bag after she was suspected of stealing a book from the library. The front cover was torn off, but the magnetic strip activated the alarm. The library staff did not press charges. Sept. 12 The Student Affairs Office reported a man throwing items into the bike racks near the garden. After an officer responded, the man was found to be a transient. The transient was later counseled regarding his behavior and escorted off campus. Compiled by Shelly Maldonado
Cicely Chisholm / Courier Students can use their I-TAP card, purchased from the Student Business Services, to use the Metro and Foothill Transit whenever they please for one low price for the duration of the semester.
Low-cost transit pass offered TERESA MENDOZA Staff Writer
PCC’s partnership with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Foothill Transit has renewed the I-TAP program for a third year this fall. I-TAP offers a low-cost bus and rail pass to full-time students enrolled in at least 12 units, for $35 per semester. This pass saves students $114 over non-participating school pass prices. Associated Students Vice President for Sustainability Juan Diego Ashton, whose initiatives drive PCC towards clean transportation, emphasizes the importance of expanding the I-TAP program to all PCC students rather than just full-time students. “My 2012 campaign goal was to lower students’ eligibility to 9 units,” said Ashton. However, Ashton was not informed when college officials signed this year’s I-TAP contract with Metro, he said. Scott Thayer, Dean of Student Affairs, said the goal was to
include as many students as possible in the program, but the exponentially-increased cost deterred the program from being extended to part-time students. “The guidelines of a full-time student, 12 units minimum eligibility, for the I-TAP is established between the college and Metro. However, if a campus wants to change that rule, they can enforce that with us,” said Sarah Zadok, communications manager for Metro. “We need to show that there is a demand for ridership so that we can have a stronger case to extend the program to part-time students,” said Ashton. “Now [with the new] trimester calendar there has to be some dialogue with Metro and we can bring up the point to them.” Thayer explained that PCC has an agreement with Metro for a set amount of 2,500 passes.If ridership increased by offering ITAP to part-time students, the contract would have to be renegotiated and it would mean a higher cost. The Student Activity Fee funds the total cost of the program. "This raises the question of
having the funds to cover it,” said Thayer. “As a business, Metro sets the parameters of the contract and wants to make sure they are not losing money.” At the initial meeting with Metro, according to Thayer, the college decided the 12-unit minimum eligibility criterion after contacting other colleges about their implementation of the program. The I-TAP program was discussed at the Aug. 3 and Sept. 7 Board of Trustees meetings. Associated Students and college officials noted the success of the program in support of its continuation. President Mark Rocha said that the program benefits more than just the students who use the I-TAP. “It takes any number of 100 vehicles per day out of the parking lots and creates parking spaces for the students that remain. It helps [not to] turnoff the neighbors because the students aren't circling the campus looking for parking…in terms of sustainability, it's a big deal to be able to reduce individual vehicle ridership,” Rocha said.
After almost six decades in a distinguished career as a leader in higher education and as a state legislator, California Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott, former PCC president, is retiring and returning home to the Pasadena area. “I look forward to returning to the Pasadena I love so much. It’s my home,” Scott said as he reflected fondly with rich laughter. As one studies in Shatford Library, shops the aisles of the campus bookstore or parks a vehicle in one of the parking structures, one should remember that it was Chancellor Scott – while president of PCC – who was instrumental in the construction of these buildings and others throughout campus, according to Mark Dodge’s book “Pasadena City College”. President Mark Rocha said: “Chancellor Scott has been such a tremendous help to me and the college over the years. I love it that’s he’s coming home.” With a child’s excitement in his voice, Scott says he’s looking forward to revisiting some of his favorite places in Pasadena, such as Kathleen’s restaurant on Lake Avenue, Laemmle’s Theatre and walking the gardens of the Huntington Library. But, top of the list, Scott says is “catching a Lancer game or two and meeting some of the students.” Performing and Communications Arts Division Dean James Arnwine has fond memories of Scott. “[My early years were] an optimistic and exciting time because the college was growing thanks to Scott’s efforts. He is much loved and revered here.” “I’m so looking forward to visiting with my grandchildren more and to explore with them as I watch them and their minds grow,” Scott said in a proud and grandfatherly tone.
Advice aims to help with work permits KARLA SOSA Staff Writer
The Cross Cultural Center held workshops that would help many DREAMers with their Deferred Action application allowing them to live out of the shadows. The Deferred Action Workshop was held at the Circadian on Sept. 12 and on Sept. 14. On June 15, President Barack Obama said that he would give DREAMers [AB-540 students] who are residing in the U.S. without documents a work permit that lasts for two years, which can also be renewed after its expiration. Marco A. Valadez, PCC alumnus and student at USC, gave a power point presentation. Valadez emphasized that students should really consult with a lawyer. “It’s important that [students] talk with a lawyer that way they can help with the application process for the
Wendy Garcia / Courier Marco Valadez, PCC alumnus and undergraduate at USC, gives information to students regarding deferred action and how it might benefit them, at the Circadian on Wednesday.
Deferred Action," Valadez said. Carrie Afuso, Flea Market and Auxiliary Coordinator, said the Cross Cultural Center held the workshop to help affected students. “We really want to help out students as much as possible
before they fill out their application. That way they don’t get denied during the process,” said Afuso. Afuso was very pleased with the number of students that attended the workshop both days.
September 20, 2012
Courier 2011 JACC General Excellence Award Winner EditorinChief Nicholas Saul Managing Editor Nicholas Zebrowski Online Editor Anthony Richetts Opinion Editor Christine Michaels
Opinion
Y E S
Schools need N the money from O Proposition 30
LUIS RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer
Arts & Entertainment Editor Paul Ochoa
The November ballot is coming up quick and voters cannot let Proposition 30 come and go down. Proposition 30 would prevent deep cuts in school funding and would provide billions in new funding. Without proposition 30, California schools and colleges face $6 billion in devastating cuts this year, according to Gov. Jerry Brown. Proposition 30 will raise the state sales tax by a quarter of a cent to 7.5 percent from 7.25 percent for four years, and increase the personal income tax rate for taxpayers making more than $250,000 for seven years. Few like to pay more in taxes but the implications are clear if this opportunity passes. Classrooms from kindergarten to community colleges and fouryear universities will take another devastating hit. "It's about taking money from the most blessed and giving it to the schools," said the governor. Brown says the only way to balance the budget is by asking the wealthy to temporarily give up what they can afford to stabilize
Assist. Features Editor Shelly Maldonado Sports Editor Philip McCormick Assist. Sports Editor Karla Sosa Photo Editor Buren Smith Assist. Photo Editor Antonio Gandara Online Photo Editor Teresa Mendoza Scene Editor Max Perez Staff Writers: Alfonso Ardon, Ander Arostegui, Raymond Bernal, Geness Gilkey, Alan Lopez, Mary Nurrenbern, Elizabeth Piedra, Amanda Pimentel, Luis Rodriguez, Mykeisa Willis Staff Photographers: Cicely Chisholm, Justin Clay, John Garcia, Wendy Garcia, Concepcion Gonzalez, Gabriela Gonzalez, Jordan Harris, Makoto Lane, Triana Melendez, John Novak, Anar Nyantaisuren, Patricia Reyes, Daniel Valencia, Alexis Villanueva, Ryan Yamamoto
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Should taxes be increased?
Assist. Opinion Editor Benjamin Simpson
Features Editor Emily Chang Chien
Courier
VOICES:
the state’s economy. Eleven percent of the new revenue will be allocated to community colleges. The League of Woman Voters of California recognizes the importance of Proposition 30 becoming a reality. Proposition 30 begins to move California toward financial stability and adequate funding for all the services residents expect from the government. The state can’t continue to cut vital public services like schools and public safety, according to League’s website. The tax increase on all Californians is modest and it is time the top earners loosened their purse strings if they care at all about posterity. Proposition 30, also known as the “The Schools and Local Public Safety Protection Act of 2012” is clear that the money is going directly to the classroom. “This measure guarantees that the new revenue it raises will be sent directly to school districts for classroom expenses, not administrative costs,” according to the text of proposition 30. This proposition will not, nor is it meant to, solve the crisis in education, but it is an auspicious start in uncertain times.
November Ballot measure has major flaw
MARY NURRENBERN Staff Writer
“Money doesn’t talk, it swears,” Bob Dylan says in one of his songs. If he is right, our state is cussing up a storm. California’s financial situation can be fixed, and Proposition 30 on the November ballot would take the right steps in taxing the rich. But it would also tax those who need to save their money: the poor and the middle class. Gov. Jerry Brown believes he has an answer to California’s financial crisis with Proposition 30. Proposition 30 will increase personal income tax on annual earnings over $250,000 for seven years, and increase sales and use tax by one-quarter of a cent for four years. It allocates 11 percent of temporary tax revenues to community colleges. “The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little,” said President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Do we take from those who are already struggling financially? From students who can’t
afford to pay for classes? From people who have lost their jobs or from families struggling to make ends meet? The current unemployment rate as of July is 8.6 percent, according to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. And 60 percent of students at PCC are on financial aid, according to Kim Miles, dean of scholarships and financial aid. Gov. Brown is trying to help Californians. But is asking the majority of us to pay more taxes the right way to do this? The one good thing about Proposition 30 is that it does include taking money from those that who can afford to help. It doesn’t specify, however, how much the tax will be increased for those making over $250,000. The analysis published by the state Attorney General’s office says: “Increases personal income tax on annual earnings over $250,000 for seven years.” Although Proposition 30 has good intentions of helping fund education, its major misstep is in increasing taxes for those who truly need the money.
How will the cancellation of winter affect you?
Faculty Adviser Warren Swil Photography Adviser Rachel Fermi Advertising Coordinator Anthony Richetts The Courier is published weekly by the Pasadena City College Journalism Department and is a freespeech 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) 5857130 Fax: (626) 5857971 Advertising: (626) 5857979 pccCourierAds@yahoo.com Office: 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., CC208 Pasadena, CA 911063215 Email: pccCourier@yahoo.com The first copy of the Courier is free. Additional copies are $1 each © Copyright 2012 Courier. All rights reserved.
“I probably will be forced to be here for a longer time because of the cancellation.” Jasmin Vallabres, English
“I wanted to catch-up on classes but now I won’t be able to.” Jacquelline Beltran, undecided
“It might take me more then two years to get out of here.” Bryant Chin, biology
“Spring classes will be so full.” Yarely Lopez, psychology
“Personally I’m really mad and I’m pretty sure I’m not alone.” Alfred Rodriguez, kinesiology
“It will be frustrating for me. If I just needed one more class, I would have to wait until spring.” Austin Larsen, biology
“It’s sad for students that are trying to get out of here but can’t get classes. It will definitely affect them.” Gerald Wright, nursing
“I was working my butt off, but now if I have to take summer classes I might not be able to transfer before the deadline.” Harshita Beeravoly, political economics
“Actually, I wasn’t planning on going to winter session.” Sharmaine Cayanan, accounting
“They didn’t just cancel classes, they also cancelled theater shows. They’re taking everything from us.” Cynthia Delgado, theater
ONLINE POLL RESULTS Online, we asked: Was the arrest of a protester at the Board meeting justified? Results as of 5 p.m. Wednesday: 59% Yes 41% No
vote at pccCourier.com
Reporting by: Raymond Bernal, Photos by: John Novak, 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 email to michaels_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) 5857130 or via email to saul.nicholas@yahoo.com.
SCENE
September 20, 2012
SPORTS
SHOWCASE With the season in full swing, student athletes fight hard for the team Football player Salvador Chavarim, business, effortlessly hoists cheerleader Sally Wong, child development, on his shoulder, easily proving why he plays center for PCC in the GM building on Sept. 13. Ryan Yamamoto / Courier
Jordan Harris / Courier Freshman forward Zachary Larson fights off the College of the Desert player trying to get to the ball at Robinson Stadium on Friday.
Lancer Cassandra Saavedra (3) scored the first goal for PCC at the game against Glendale Community College at Robinson Stadium on Sept. 4. PCC won 3-1. Teresa Mendoza / Courier
Teresa Mendoza / Courier Lancer forward Nancy Nunez (14) challenges Corsair player during the game at the Santa Monica College Corsair field on Sept. 11. Lancers played an aggressive game but lost 1-0.
Ashli Gonzales, (6) throws the ball away from Long Beach College to score a point on Sept. 12 at PCC’s Aquatics Center. Alexis Villanueva / Courier
Courier
BOARD BOARD A APPROVES PPROVES THREE-TERM THREE-TERM CALENDAR CALENDAR FOR FOR A ACADEMIC CADEMIC YEAR YEAR 2 2012-2013 012-2013 FOR MORE INFORMATION, INFORMA AT TION, TION VISIT WWW WWW.PASADENA.EDU/FACTS/THREE-TERM-SCHEDULE.CFM .PASADENA.EDU/FACTS/THREE-TERM-SCHEDULE.CFM
SPRING SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN ON MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 2013
IMPORTANT DATES
BENEFIT: CLASSES FOR EVERY STUDENT, NOT JUST A FEW
SPRING SEMESTER REGISTRATION
OCTOBER, 2012 SPRING SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN
JANUARY 7, 2013 SPRING BREAK
MARCH 4 – 10, 2013 SPRING SEMESTER FINAL EXAMS
THINK OF IT AS “16-6” INSTEAD OF “6-16”
APRIL 29 – MAY 5, 2013 COMMENCEMENT
MAY 3, 2013 SUMMER SESSION I BEGINS
MAY 13, 2013 SUMMER SESSION II BEGINS
JUNE 24, 2013
FREQUENTLY FREQUENTL LY ASKED ASK QUESTIONS QUESTION: So if all you’re doing is flipping the calendar, keep the calendar calendar r, why not just ke as it is? ANSWER: The primary reason for the calendar change is to improve p stu udent success. The current calendar was itself an experiment that began only in 2004. Since that time state data show that PCC’s student success outcomes have flat lined or declined, especially among basic skills students, our most at-risk students for not completing. Data shows that students in basic skills English, ESL and math usually complete at higher rates when instruction occurs consistently over an academic year without a long winter break. Why can’t the District just fund extra winter session classes under the same calendar as it always has done? The severe state funding cuts for 2012-2013 alreadyy had forced the District to eliminate most winter session classes. At the Board meeting on September 5, the Trustees adopted a FY 2012-2013 budget that would stay within its state funding and its historical policy of going over statemandated enrollment by no more than 2%. Under the old calendar, PCC would have had a winter session, but no winter session classes. The newly approved calendar insures that all students will have classes in the winter starting on January 7. Why is this called a “tentative” calendar? Should I plan to be here on January 7 or not? The Board of Trustees has already approved and adopted the new calendar and fully intends for it to be implemented this year. In the official action item before the Board of Trustees, the calendar was termed “tentative” due to the legal requirement that the District negotiate with its faculty and staff unions about the impacts on their wages and working conditions of this calendar change. To be clear, the negotiation with the faculty and staff unions is not about whether the calendar will be implemented. It is about addressing the negotiable effects of the change
on faculty and staff. The calendar change can go forward while these negotiations continue. So,, as a p pra actical matter, all facultyy, staff and students should plan p on the calendar ch hange g and should p plan to start classes on Mondayy, Januaryy 7,, 2013. By O October 1, or thereabouts, the administration will make a final announcement on the operational details of implementing the new calendar. I’m a student planning to graduate and transfer in the Spring and I was planning to take a winter session class to meet the requirements of my educational plan? What do I do now? You will still get need. g the class you y (But, first, remember that under the previous calendar there were no classes offered during the winter session.) All students who are in this situation and who are within 12-18 units of graduation/transfer will be identified and given the classes they need. If you are in this situation, email calendarhotline@pasadena.edu. p I’m a student and I was planning to work full time or travel winter. ravel during the winter r. Now what do I do? You still can work or be away for January 7- February 15. We will be scheduling a late spring session of classes to meet the needs of such students. If you are in this situation, email calend darhotline@pasadena.edu. p
to set up your spring classes, while it is less busy. Will the fall 2013 term finish after the holiday break?
requirements for admission (e.g. completion of the golden four and 60 units by the end of the spring term). Please contact a counselor or university rep for more information.
No. The fall term is scheduled to finish before the holiday break as usual. This includes finals and the submission of grades by faculty.
I’m a full-time faculty member and I’m not scheduled to teach in the winter and I have already made other plans to be away. away y. What do I do?
When will the spring 2013 class schedule be available/ posted online?
This may be an “impact on working conditions.” First, make this clear to your union so that they can negotiate such issues with the District. The District is prepared to accommodate faculty in this situation and there are a number of ways that this accommodation can be done without any disruption to you or the class schedule.
The spring 2013 class schedule will be on the PCC website by mid to late October as usual. Will the new calendar cost students more in fees? No. Enrollment and tuition fees in spring 2013 will remain unchanged: 12 units at $46/unit, plus $13 Health Fee, $1 ASB Fee and $10 Student Activity Fee per term. Will there be summer classes? Yes. The first six-week summer session begins on Mayy 13 and ends June 21. The second six-week summer session is scheduled for June 24 and ends August 2. The state budget cuts still may not make extra summer classes available, but students who need a class to get to a university in September will get what they need.
OK, so when and how will I register and get my classes for the Spring semester?
s To be eligible for guaranteed summer session I courses, students must provide the Degree and Transfer Center with the following information per dates posted:
There’s plenty ty of time. Yo ou will register the way you always have on the PCC website. You will be assigned a registration date based on your priority.
% Before 12/7/12: A list of all CSU and UC campuses to which fall 2013 applications were submitted and the transfer major declared
Registration assignment dates for continuing students will be posted on Lancerlink on October 1. New/ Returning students will be emailed their registration assignment dates upon confirmed receipt of their admission application.
% Before 3/1/13: A list of all independent campuses to which fall 2013 applications were submitted and the transfer major declared
It’s so important to make an appointment to see a counselor now
% Upon immediate receipt from independent institutions: admission status notice and/or requirements Note: CSUs and UCs have minimum
I’m a faculty member and I’m scheduled to teach a new course in the Spring and I was counting on the winter break to prepare. This is also an example of a possible “impact” of the calendar change and faculty should make the Faculty Association aware of this situation. Again, the administration is prepared to work closely with the Faculty Association to accommodate faculty in this kind of situation. There will also be a number of special meetings in the next few weeks with the Academic Senate and the Committee on Academic and Professional Matters (CAPM) so that the administration can address any and all faculty issues. I’m a classified staff member and I’ve heard that there may be furloughs this January. January y. Is this so? No. When the Board adopted the new calendar, it also eliminated the need to ask managers and staff to furlough during the winter session when no classes would be in session. The adopted budget proposed to the Board for FY2012-2013 does not include furloughs for managers or staff. The administration has therefore instructed General Counsel to rescind its previous request to negotiate the possibility of furloughs for January.
Questions? Email: calendarhotline@pasadena.edu
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Arts & Entertainment
Courier
September 20, 2012
Instructor brings film noir out of the past ‘Film as dramatic literature’ with Joseph Sierra introduces students to the essentials of noir style PAUL OCHOA Arts & Entertainment Editor
City at night, private eyes, femme fatales, and a sense of predetermined fate – all of these are key elements that make a classic film noir. Film as dramatic literature with Instructor Joseph Sierra examines the quintessential noir films and the ideas, story lines, characters, and cinematography by watching a classic catalog of film noir. “Generally we go through the classic ideas of noir: shadowy cinematography, the sense of fate, the private eyes, femme fatales, and the crime. We see a lot of great films,” said Sierra. Sierra chose to focus his class on film noir because he found the cinematography and dark themes beautiful and interesting. “I find it aesthetically beautiful in a dark way. Its dark themes are personally interesting to me,” he said. For students who can’t get enough noir in class, Sierra brings his own personal collection of noir films for students to
borrow. “I bring my [Noir film] collection and I trustingly lend [the films] to the class,” said Sierra. Sierra feels that the way students analyze films in his class is useful in other classes as well. “What you learn in a film class you can use in other classes [because] what you are doing is analyzing a piece of art,” said Sierra English Instructor Kathleen Green, also believes that a film class can be helpful in subjects other than the study of film. “Taking a film class is helpful for literature majors. It helps you question how literature works. Many important ideas in literary theory emerged in film theory,” said Green. Green shows some of the same noir films in her film as dramatic literature class. “I think it’s a great class, I show some of the same films in a different class [film as dramatic literature],” said Green. Sierra hopes students who take his class learn to love film, identify noir, and gain ideas from the films. “What I want them to do is generally love film and to be able to identify and understand noir as opposed to just a movie. Also to be able to get ideas and write about [them],” said Sierra. Kem Turner a student who has previously taken Sierra’s class says she enjoyed the discussions the class would have before watching the films. “We would have discussions
Max Perez / Courier Instructor Joseph Sierra seen in his office in the C Building on Sept. 5, teaches a course ‘Film as a Dramatic Literature’, which explores essential elements related to the noir style.
before watching the film regarding certain lighting elements, locations, studios, directors, and of course the history of the genre,” said Turner. Turner believes the class should be a requirement for film majors. “Professor Sierra’s noir class should be a requirement for any film majors and I would strongly recommend it for any one
that loves film and the art of visual storytelling, its even helped me become a better writer,” says Turner. “The history of film noir is fascinating, I even learned to be a better writer,” said Turner. Even though action films now dominate Hollywood, Sierra believes that the noir genre will never go away. “Action films have pretty
much taken over but the look of noir is still there. I think the noir will never go away. It comes and goes when a culture is at a point where it starts to question things and there is an uncertainty and the foundation seems rocky,” Sierra said. For those interested in film noir he recommends “The Big Sleep” and “The Maltese Falcon”.
Faculty art exhibit opens at gallery YEYSON CABALLEROS Staff Writer
The annual Faculty Art Exhibit that opened at the Art Gallery on Sept. 6, featured 37 artists this year working in many genres across the spectrum of at as well as artists from different disciplines. With a mixture of different types of art works and artistic styles, the gallery had a piece for everyone. According to Brian Tucker, gallery director, as the Visual Art and Media Studies Division begins to grow, awareness for art appreciation has developed each year with this event. “The division has expanded and has increased diversity,“ said Tucker. “Things like architecture and fashion have been added.” Art in the exhibition included works of photography, animation, fashion, architecture, fine art, digital media, and painting. Themes found in the art varied from architectural appreciation to environmental awareness. Artist Silvia Rigon, who teaches 3D- modeling and animation as well as fine art, was the creator of the Panta Rei piece. She explains in her description of the Panta Rei the incorporation of an environmental issue with cartoons in order to make the piece comprehensible. “It stands out simply because it’s animated, almost cartoonlike and it is integrated with digital media,” said Rigon.
The piece is seemingly an infinite amount of animated trash overwhelmingly flowing towards the viewer through a screen. Nevertheless, Panta Rei and digital media were not the only standouts in the gallery. Every single piece had a personal quality that seemed to attract groups of viewers sporadically. One of those was Jerry Graves’ laser print, Art Comes From Life. Photography instructor and experienced graphic designer, his piece was a redefining line of what is fine art and what is considered graphic design. According to Graves, the fabrication of art is composed of the artist’s life. “Art comes from life and life experiences…in a whimsical way if you’re making art that doesn’t come from your life, then it is not art,” said Graves. As a graphic designer this was the first piece he contributed to the gallery that would be considered fine art. "In the overall diverse composition of this year’s exhibit, pieces such as Art Comes From Life brought a great number of viewers all from different backgrounds willing to take some time to appreciate art created by faculty," said Kevin Figueroa an attendee at the show. “I think it’s wonderful that we have an active division,” said Rigon. She added that the division has made a huge effort to push forward art awareness and incorporate different types of art.
Features
September 20, 2012
Courier
7
Product design instructor started young MARY NURRENBERN Staff Writer
Leaned back in his chair with his chin in his hands, Stan Kong, assistant professor of Industrial Design, reminisces about his days in college. “The opportunity to learn is one of the things I loved about college, along with the people,” said Kong. As a boy, Kong”s family were immigrants and didn’t”t have a lot of money. He made his own toys and was fascinated learning how things came together by watching his mother (a seamstress) sew. In high school he learned to build bicycles, skateboards and jewelry. He eventually began to sell the jewelry. Design was in his blood. His face lights up when he talks about teaching. He has taught at PCC since 1987 and at the Art Center since 1983. His students have gone on to
Wendy Garcia / Courier Stan Kong, Assistant Professor of Product Design, gets ready to teach his class in beginning product design, R Building, Sept. 17.
work for large corporations such as Mercedes Benz, Disney, Apple and BMW. “It makes me feel good to know I have had a great impact on the
world in some way,” said Kong. Lauren Takayama, industrial design, changed her major because of the encouragement she got from Kong.
“I didn’t think I had the ability to do industrial design but with encouragement from Kong my perspective changed,” said Takayama. Kong”s mentor John Caldwell, a famous furniture designer, was a teacher at PCC who encouraged Kong to go to PCC. When Caldwell retired, Kong took over the program that Caldwell had started. “He did wonderful things for me,” said Kong of Caldwell. Kong was a student at Art Center of Design in 1983 and left to pursue his career, but was offered a position to work there and took the job. He decided to go back and get his bachelors degree in 2002. He chose that year because 12 out of the 13 students that were graduating he had taught and it was special to him to graduate with them. Kong was working as an industrial designer and teaching at the
same time, but he decided to pass on prominent jobs because teaching was so important to him. He has no regrets. “There is nothing I would want to change. I want to be a teacher and I get to do what I want,” said Kong. He stops and thinks for a minute, then starts to laugh. “Well if I could go back, I would like to know what the lottery numbers are,” said Kong. “Stan has one of the best reputations with students,” said Joe Futtner, Interim Dean of Visual Arts and Media Studies. “He makes you believe in yourself, he is always happy to help with questions and,encourages students to follow their dreams,” said Oksana Byka, product design. “I really like to be able to help improve peoples lives, the reward is great,” said Kong.
Many say listening to music helps them to study SHELLY MALDONADO Staff Writer
Many students depend on the tunes streaming from their iPods as an aid in keeping them focused while studying. It takes only a few steps on campus to notice the innumerable students working on their laptops writing papers, reading books, and studying for exams all the while having their headphones glued to their ears. The idea that listening to music while studying serves as a way to remain better focused is
unmistakable on a stroll through campus. Not everyone, however, on campus is on board the musicmakes-me-study-better bandwagon. Performing and Communication Arts Instructor, Steven Gates, has a different take on this concept. “[Students] probably shouldn’t be listening to music if they’re trying to study,” says Gates. Listening to music while studying does not strike Gates as the best idea.
“Some people claim to do better when they have external noise, but for me, personally, I need silence,” says Gates. Country seems to be a popular genre of music among students trying to concentrate. “I like the songs,” said Duong Le, Computer Science. “It relaxes me and makes me think better.” The country trend, however, does not stop at a single student. “It helps… If I don’t have music I get easily distracted,” says Jay Gedorio, Chemistry. “I find that it calms me down and helps me
Two six-week summer terms to be held Continued from page 1
“Whether we have the money to fund [summer] is an open question at this point. Will there be classes? We hope,” Rocha said in an interview on August 30. Although Bell confirmed that both sessions will indeed have classes, he did supplement the guarantee with the addendum that there will only be two sessions “if it is determined if [it] best meets the needs of students.” Even though the tentative
three-semester calendar has been established through the administration, controversy remains over its passage. “There is no guarantee of anything under a tentative calendar,” said Krista Walter, Cochair of the committee that created and submitted the original calendar that included both a winter and summer intersession. “It is not an official, legal calendar, hence the adjective ‘tentative,” she continued. “This tentative calendar comes directly
from Rocha. It has been unilaterally imposed despite heavy student and faculty opposition.” The first summer session will include a number of specialized instructional periods that looks to accommodate those who have most been affected by the elimination of winter. The beginning of the first summer session (summer session I) will have a six-week instructional period that will cater towards students who are within 12 units of transferring or graduating.
Number of intersession classes offered over the past 6 years
Buren Smith / Courier
concentrate.” Student Breana Escobedo, Psychology, says, “It puts me on that state of mind.” Other genres are also being taken into consideration in the quest for better concentration. “I listen to indie, rock, and folk,” says Andrea Cavillo, Animal Science. “It’s only when I’m reading that I need complete silence. Otherwise, I need some background noise to help me focus.” Other students do not have any preference for music they listen to when studying.
“Any kind. Whatever I’m in the mood for,” says Michael Calderon, mechanical engineering. “It keeps me focused, but it can be distracting if I’m reading or trying to memorize something.” Gates has this to say for those who absolutely need background noise while their nose is buried in school work: “Anything that puts them in a good place.”
COUR IER
September 20, 2012
SPORTS
Water polo falls short in road game loss TIFFANY HERRERA Staff Writer
The women’s water polo team lost to Long Beach City College on Sept. 12 at the Aquatic Center. Despite a well played game, the Lancers lost, 6-7. At the end of the third quarter, PCC was down 4-6. That didn’t
stop the cheers from the audience. Coach Terry Stoddard was shouting at the team to direct them. As the fourth quarter started, Long Beach scored putting the Vikings up by three points. Disappointment fell over the small crowd of about 30 people, but PCC soon caught up and
scored twice. Cheers erupted from the audience and the team. Players hugged and high fived in the water. The second goal was made with only eight seconds left. Swimming hard and fast, PCC tried hard to tie the game, but time ran out. During the last minute of the
fourth quarter, a group of spectators started chanting “Let’s go Lancers!” and the players on the bench joined in to cheer on their fellow team members. The timer buzzed to mark the end of the game and all the players started getting out of the pool. “We played really well together as a team,” he said. “In our
fifth game of the season to play that well together as a team is good.” PCC fought really hard during the course of the game and refused to be an easy win. “We weren’t just going to be beaten. [Long Beach] was going to have to fight,” said Stoddard.
Football loses again, stays winless
Lady Lancers lose
PHILIP MCCORMICK Sports Editor
Teresa Mendoza / Courier Lancer forward Nancy Nunez challenges a Corsair player in a Sep. 11 game at Santa Monica. Despite the Lancers playing an aggressive game, they lost 1-0.
Men’s soccer gets shut out in 1-0 loss to Desert JONATHAN BILES Contributing Writer
The Lancers were unable to capitalize on their multitude of scoring chances in a 1-0 loss to the College of the Desert Roadrunners at Robinson Stadium on Saturday. Other than the late game controversy involving the Roadrunners’ coach, the game was in PCC’s hands, but they failed to turn their solid play into a positive result. With a record of 0-4-1, the Lancers have yet to put together a full 90 minutes of continuity and continue to find it difficult to turn a possession advantage into scoring goals. “It was one of those games,” Head Coach Edgar Manvelyan said after the game. “They’re a very good team and we didn’t take advantage of our chances.” The second half was more of the same, except for a mental lapse by the Lancers’ defense, as a throw-in went into the PCC box and was easily tapped in by Roadrunner Fabian Cortez in the 59th minute. “We had four guys set up top, we got no clear shots and their goalie did a fantastic job,” said Manvelyan.
The game had become contentious between the two teams, but in the 89th minute, Lancer midfielder Larson went to retrieve a ball that had rolled out-ofbounds, and was impeded on his way back to the field by Roadrunners Head Coach Pipo Castillo. “I went for the ball for the throw in, and he got in my way,” said Larson after the game. “He stuck his leg out, nudged me, and then cussed at me in Spanish.” This episode resulted in both team’s benches clearing to defend their teammate and coach. After the teams had relaxed and the referee had broken up the shoving match, the head referee gave Coach Castillo a red card and an immediate ejection from the stadium. “He was probably trying to waste time,” Coach Manvelyan said about incident, “but it’s very unsportsmanlike and I appreciate the red card from the referee.” Even after five extra minutes were added due to play stoppage, and another onslaught of chances for the Lancers, the game ended in a 1-0 loss, with PCC outshooting their opponent 16-7. “We worked hard, we just couldn’t score,” said Manvelyan.
Jordan Harris / Courier Zachary Larson fiercely eyes the goal against College of the Desert at Robinson Stadium.
The Saturday night lights were on at Robinson Stadium and the crowd was cheering as Quarterback Justin Posthuma returned from his injury, but unlike the lights, the Lancers were unable to shine. The El Camino College Warrior sliced through PCC with a winning score of 46-27 on Saturday. “I felt excited,” said Posthuma. “I was ready and prepared to play. Once we start working as a team, we will do better.” The Lancers started off with good defense and were able to hold off the Warriors, but with about one minute left in the first quarter, El Camino was able to score a touchdown. PCC answered with a 70-yard kick-off return from wide receiver Tairen Owens, which led to a field goal by kicker Martin Magana, making it a 3-point game with 44.6 seconds left in the first. “I felt pretty good about the game coming out,” said Owens who had 196 all-purpose yards in the game. “And [Magana] is a really good kicker.” “Our defense is great,” said Posthuma. “[The offense] has to do better, though. If we do our job, the defense can do their job.” The Lancers were able to get back down the field eventually, but were unsuccessful in getting the touchdown and had to settle for another field goal from Magana. The team couldn’t find the end zone. “We are not good on third down conversions,” said Head Coach Fred Fimbres. “It’s an issue that we have to work.” El Camino kept the pressure on PCC, as they scored another touchdown to put the Warriors up by 12 points. Owens said that the coaches told them to “keep fighting”, when they went into the lockers. “Due to injuries, we have been starting with guys who have less playing experience than our starters,” said Fimbres. “They are still learning the game.” The start of the third quarter looked promising for the Lancers, as the defense scored on an interception, making it 18-12 and keeping it a close game. PCC was fired up, but about four minutes later, disaster struck. The Warriors found the end zone three more time in the quarter and at the end, PCC was down 39-13. “It’s really feast or famine with our defense,” said Fimbres. “We need to sharpen up, on that end.” The Lancers tried to fight back, putting in Quarterback Zeek Julien who was able to get PCC two more touchdowns, but the damage had been done. “We beat ourselves,” said Owens “We need to be more disciplined. But we’ll get better. We are still learning.” Fimbres did say the team had improved on its running game and that its kicking game was getting really good.