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COURIER Pasadena City College
Lancers lose 6514 Page 8» Volume 106, Issue 6
The independent student voice of PCC. Serving Pasadena Since 1915.
Online edition pccCourier.com Facebook PCC Courier Twitter @pccCourier October 4, 2012
College sued in bribery case NICHOLAS SAUL Editor-in-Chief
A lawsuit alleging breach of contract and negligence related to the bribery scandal that rocked the campus in June has been filed in Superior Court
against the Pasadena Area Community College District, the Board of Trustees and numerous other defendants. Gail Cooper, the school’s general counsel, said the District could not respond to questions, but did confirm that it will
respond to the lawsuit. The suit was filed by LED Global, a firm that lost a $5-million contract to install lighting on campus. The ‘negligence’ part of the lawsuit centers around the idea that the Board of Trustees did
not properly supervise ex-Vice President of Administrative Services Richard van Pelt, and former Facilities Supervisor Alfred Hutchings who were fired in June after the school found out they were being investigated by the District Attorney’s
office for ‘conflicts of interest’. The plaintiff in the lawsuit, LED Global, has also filed a suit against van Pelt and Hutchings, which claims the two men had solicited bribes in exchange for Continued on page 6
Faculty calls for new negotiations over winter term
Pullin’ strings: Chinese yoyo show
Union pursues legal action EMILY CHANG-CHIEN AND NICHOLAS SAUL Staff Writers
Daniel Valencia / Courier Beijing students from the Shangxiejie Elementary School teach onlookers on campus how to yoyo in front of the Shatford Library on Sep. 25. Story on page 2.
College system names new chancellor RAYMOND BERNAL Staff Writer
The California Community Colleges Board of Governors has selected veteran administrator Brice Harris as the 15th chancellor of the California community college system. Harris will be inheriting a challenge with a 112-college system mired in budget cuts and an
enrollment decline of over 500,000 students since 2008. “It’s a challenge that I will confront head-on because I am bullish about community colleges,” said Harris during a telephone interview with The Courier on Friday. Harris was chancellor for 16 years of the Los Rios Community College District in the Sacramento area. Previously
Harris served as president of Fresno City College and was a faculty member and vice-chancellor in the Kansas City, Mo. community college system. Harris holds various degrees in communications, received a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University in Florida and did his post-doctoral Continued on page 6
The Faculty Association has taken a legal route to re-ignite negotiations with the administration over the elimination of winter session. According to FA lead negotiator co-chair Danny Hamman, the association has filed a request with the Public Employment Relations Board for a mediator to initiate negotiations. The FA claims that negotiations have not been conducted in good faith. “[The FA] has been diligently negotiating for several months and we are disappointed they cut winter session unilaterally and violated the contract, as well as shared governance,” said PCCFA President Roger Marheine. While the FA’s main goal is to start up negotiations again, the end result of the mediation request remains unclear. “I don’t know,” said Hamman when asked if the request could bring winter session back.
Related Story / page 6 “We’re trying to get [the administration] to negotiate with us again.” Marheine echoed Hamman’s sentiment: “We have to make our move because [the administration] has moved,” he said. According to an advertisement appearing elsewhere in this issue of the Courier, the spring semester class schedule will be published Oct. 12, with classes beginning Jan. 7. Meanwhile, according to a document on the FA web site, the Calendar Committee held a meeting on Sept. 27 at which the three-semester calendar (excluding winter) was opposed by a huge majority. “The District has a choice,” said Krista Walter, co-chair of the Calendar Committee. “It can respond to the needs and concerns of students, faculty, and staff, all of who have been operating under the approved 2012 to 2013 calendar distributed to Continued on page 6
New Human Resources director hired to fill vacancy PHILIP MCCORMICK Staff Writer
A new leader for the Human Resources Department, Terri Hampton, has been hired after the position had been vacant for about five months. The former Vice President of Human Resources, Benedict Lastimado, went on a ‘personal leave’ early in May, officials said at the time, and has not been seen on campus
since. “[PCC] is a beautiful school and I’m really excited to be here,” said Hampton. “I look forward to helping this administration in its goals towards their Educational Master Plan.” Senior Vice President and Assistant Superintendent of Business and College Services Robert Miller said that Hampton was hired because she is “very experienced” in human resources for community colleges.
“[Hampton’s] professional skill sets, personality and professionalism mesh very well with our college faculty staff, staff, managers and culture,” said Miller. “She was definitely a stand-out candidate. Hampton served as director of human resources for the Mount San Antonio College District for three years and said that she feels that this would be the “next level” for her. Continued on page 6
Makoto Lane / Courier Newly hired Executive Director of Human Resources Terri Hampton.
Speak out!
College Prep
Volleyball
Should California abolish the death penalty?
Summit looks to inform Latino community
PCC racks up kills in win over LA Trade Tech
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News
Courier
Police Blotter Sept. 20 Student reported his bicycle was stolen from the bike racks located on the south side of the L building. There are no leads in th Sept. 21: A cadet reported that a student was bitten by a spider in the R Building. An officer responded and discovered it was possibly a Black Widow bite. Pasadena Fire Department was notified, responded, and transported the student to Arcadia Methodist Hospital for further examination. Sept. 25: Police officers received several reports of a man being attacked by 10 unknown suspects after getting off a bus on Colorado Boulevard and Bonnie Avenue. The assailants allegedly stole the victim’s laptop and fled the area. Officers responded and tended to the victim, a student, and combed the area for witnesses and suspects until arrival of the Pasadena Police Department. The victim refused medical treatment. Sept. 25: The Pasadena Police Department notified the campus police that on Feb. 24 they responded to a robbery call on Colorado Boulevard. The victim, a student, was walking when a man grabbed her checkbook wallet and fled. The victim chased the suspect for a couple of minutes, but then lost sight of the thief. Officers from PPD checked the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The loss was approximately $50$100. Compiled by Philip McCormick
October 4, 2012
College prep fair offers help with education AMANDA PIMENTEL Staff Writer
Thousands of students and family members gathered Saturday at the Pasadena Convention Center for one of the largest educational summits put together by New Futuro. Geared to help Latino students accomplish their dreams through education, New Futuro‘s summit aimed to bring awareness to the Latino community in gathering knowledge on how to prepare for, attend, and pay for college. “The summit is geared to Latinos but it is open to anyone who wants to know more about furthering their education,” said Brand Ambassador of New Futuro, Karen Aguirre. The summit included speakers, workshops, college representatives, and health services for everyone in attendance. “We have to connect to Latino families to take the mystery out of education. We want [families] to believe in their dreams, and we can help make [them] possible,” said New Futuro CEO and CoFounder Pete Wilkins. The conference included two speakers; Gabe Salazar, a youth motivational speaker and finance expert, Mike Periu. Both gave information to parents on how to apply to college and finding funds to attend college. The speakers also interacted with parents by answering questions. “I am not a college graduate, but I want my children to have an education and [New Futuro] gave me the information I needed,” said mother Sonia Young. Scholarships were given to
Teresa Mendoza / Courier Students share information about bilingual representatives from 48 different colleges and universities at the New Futuro College Prep Fair held at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday. Students had the chance to win scholarship awards and learn to organize their finances to pay for college.
students in attendance as well. Allstate, New Futuro’s biggest sponsor, presented the biggest scholarship of $4,500. Other scholarships were also given by Burger King, Jostens, and H&R Block. The summit was bilingual so that Spanish speaking parents were able to also participate. “It was inspiring. I didn’t know there were so many colleges, scholarships, and workshops available. I didn’t know all these possibilities existed,” said father Mario Gutierrez. Not only did the summit offer information about colleges but it included information on how to stay healthy, with booths that ranged from health services to student insurance. “The Latino community is hungry for information, and
we’re here to give them resources they need,” said Director of Public Relations Jose Munoz. New Futuro began its mission by attending college fairs in order to bring awareness all around the country. The organization began a year ago and has reached great success said Wilkins. “I was enlightened about New Futuro at a college fair. I had so much information at my disposal,” said Jeryl Gutierrez, senior at Palisades High School. New Futuro is a Chicago based organization that wishes to provide information needed to help students further their education by attending college said Munoz. New Futuro co-founder Wilkins comes from an immi-
grant background. The other cofounder is Martin R. Castro, who was appointed by President Barack Obama as chairperson of the United States Commission on Civil Rights. New Futuro will continue its summits as well as college fairs next in Houston, New York, Miami, and finishing in Chicago said Munoz. CORRECTION The position that Assistant Professor Matt Jordan is an applicant for was incorrectly reported in the Sept. 27 issue. Jordan is an applicant for a position titled Associate Dean of General Education and Program Review.
Chinese Yoyo introduced to campus KARLA SOSA Staff Writer
Shangxiejie Elementary School pupils from Beijing, China played the Chinese Yoyo at the Sculpture Garden on September 25. There were many faculty members and students getting ready to see the young students perform the Chinese Yoyo. Michelle Washington, Interclub Council representative, introduced the Shangxiejie students and gave a grief history on Chinese Yoyo. “Yoyo is also known as diabolo and has been a popular game in China for almost 900 years,” said Washington. There were about 15 students, they did seven different types of performances, including Shaking the Sun, and then did a paper cutting demonstration. “The students have been doing presentations at the Paseo and Kidspace. They have been enjoying there stay here in California,” said Washington. According to Washington, the Interclub Council knew that the students were coming, so they have been preparing everything for the event. Emmanuella Carrasco, graphic arts, found out about the performance through one of her
Daniel Valencia / Courier Shangxiejie Elementary School students visit PCC by presenting a display of there skils with the chinese Yoyo on Sept 25.
instructors. “I’m really glad that I came. The performances were really interesting,” said Carrasco. Patrick Wang, business, has been to Beijing a couple of times and was glad to see that students from PCC were able to enjoy a different cultural experience from China. “I really loved the yoyo performance. I’m glad I was able to find out about this,” said Wang. Samantha Acevedo, film, had never seen anything like it before. “I didn’t even know they played the yoyo or that it was a sport in China,” said Acevedo.
The yoyo team was composed of students aged 9 to 13. Liu Lan, 11 years old, has been practicing the yoyo for five years. Lan got involved with playing the yoyo because it’s a Chinese tradition and its part of her heritage. “I practice 50 minutes every day […] it was hard at first learning how to play the yoyo, but after awhile I got better at it,” said Lan. Washington also said that the yoyo presentation went along with the exhibit that was going on in the library. The exhibition is a glimpse of China during the past 10 years.
October 4, 2012
Courier 2011 JACC General Excellence Award Winner EditorinChief Nicholas Saul Managing Editor Nicholas Zebrowski Online Editor Anthony Richetts Opinion Editor Christine Michaels Assist. Opinion Editor Benjamin Simpson Arts & Entertainment Editor Paul Ochoa Features Editor Emily Chang Chien 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 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
Opinion
Courier
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Editorial
Hostile environment unnecessary Since the beginning of the spring semester, a hostile environment has become evident on campus. The discussion of major restructuring, eliminating winter intersession, along with an unprecedented bribery scandal have made almost every one ill at ease. The Aug. 29 Board of Trustees meeting set an even more damaging tone this semester. With the Board’s approval of a calendar that eliminated winter intersession, along with a complete realignment of the college’s staff, administration, faculty, and teaching divisions, multiple groups on campus were caught off guard. Many shared governance groups feel the Board’s and the administration’s decisions have been in complete disregard of their year–long discussions and recommendations.
The Academic Senate, Associated Students, and Calendar Committee all recommended keeping winter intersession during last year’s deliberations. The Senate and College Council voted to keep the 13 college divisions separate and to appoint deans for each. The meanings of important terminology keep changing. Sessions have suddenly become interchangeable with intersessions; terms have become interchangeable with semesters. A “student calendar” has replaced an academic calendar. At an emergency meeting held on Aug. 28, the Faculty Association questioned the shift from an academic calendar to a student calendar. At the Aug. 29 Board meeting, the administration explained there was no difference: however many during the public com-
ment begged to differ. Many are still confused at this change of terminology. Not only is there confusion about the meaning of the words, but there is also serious confusion among students and faculty over the administration’s full–page advertisement [which appeared in previous issues of the Courier] explaining the calendar change. Some officials said the advertisement gave misinformation regarding summer semester, saying there will be two distinct sessions, instead of one semester with two sessions within it. Of course, these could be the wrong words or they could mean something else. Who knows? At the Academic Senate’s Sept. 11 Town Hall, members of the administration, Senate and AS sat on a panel in an attempt to explain the calendar change to
faculty and students. Many faculty members questioned the starting dates for spring and summer semesters. While the Town Hall aimed to help explain the administration’s actions to the public, it only caused more confusion and uncertainty regarding these actions. At the town hall, officials said they did not have a set number of sections for summer 2013, nor did they know if the spring’s Jan. 7 start date could be moved a week later to aid faculty in their course planning. The administration must learn to better explain its decisions and its rationale to the public. But first, officials must fully understand the consequences of their actions, or else we are doomed to a sense that they are making it up as they go along, without a coherent plan.
New food labeling unnecessary, expensive ALAN LOPEZ Staff Writer
Proposition 37, which will appear on California’s November ballot, aims to legislate a food reform in which some genetically engineered foods and Genetically Modified Organisms or GMOs must be labeled as such. The problem with the proposed law is that it will impose $1.2 billion in additional costs for farmers to adhere to the law, according to a study done by UC Davis professors, and will arbitrarily exempt certain foods from GMO labeling. The implementation of Proposition 37 will make food costs more expensive, will give misleading information and is unnecessary. There is conclusive evidence in a study done by Stanford University and published in the
VOICES:
“I understand it perfectly, but I think its stupid because students are now screwed.” Alex Dominguez, Cinematography
Annals of Internal Medicine which states that there is lack of strong evidence to support that organic foods are more nutritious than conventional foods. Labeling GMOs, from a scientific standpoint, is unnecessary. The American Medical Association recently stated on their website, www.amaassn.org, that “there is no scientific justification for special labeling of genetically modified foods.” According to the Food and Drug Administration, much of the crop-grown food that we buy has in some way been modified genetically. Often times, crops are modified to resist pests and herbicides, such as soybean and squash varieties developed by Asgrow, a subsidiary of Monsanto Company. “Data indicate that consumers do not have a good understanding that
essentially all food crops have been genetically modified and that bioengineering technology is only one of a number of technologies used to genetically modify crops,” according to the FDA website, www.fda.gov. Implementing GMO labeling would mislead people to believe that genetically modified foods are unhealthy. There is also an issue with Proposition 37 in which certain, seemingly arbitrary, foods will be exempt from GMO labeling, regardless of whether or not the food products have been genetically modified or not. Some of these include: alcoholic beverages, food sold at restaurants, milk, and meat from animals that have been fed genetically engineered products. The total portion of the exempt foods are estimated at nearly two-thirds of California’s consumer bought
food, according to a Northbridge Environmental Management Consultant report, www.noprop37.com Grocery bills may increase by as much as $400 annually, if Proposition 37 is passed, according to the Northbridge report. The projected increase in costs would take place due to changes in the farming, retail, and food producing businesses. The rise in costs will make food less affordable, to everyone including lowincome families. Proposition 37, if passed, has the potential to complicate our trip to the grocery store, not to mention increase the cost of our food. The labeling of our food is unnecessary and yet would still not eliminate all genetically modified food that we will buy and consume. If so, what’s the point?
Do you understand the changes to the academic calender at PCC?
“I understand the new academic calendar, but I don’t agree with it.” Hyacinth Pienda, Medicine
“I didn’t know that spring [semester] was going to start earlier.” Matthew White, Design
ONLINE POLL RESULTS Online, we asked: What do you think about the NFL referees’ strike? Results as of 5 p.m. Wednesday:
The first copy of the Courier is free. Additional copies are $1 each
The team owners are greedy: Pay up (53%) The referees are greedy: get back to work (30%) Who cares: Football’s back! (15%)
© Copyright 2012 Courier. All rights reserved.
vote at pccCourier.com
“Yeah, I understand the academic calendar, but I just know the basic stuff.” Christian Medrano, Communications
“I didn’t know that spring semester was going to start earlier, until right now.” Priscilla Hernad, Graphic Design
Reporting by: Karla Sosa, Photos by: Antonio Gandara
Note to Readers Letters to the Editor
The Courier welcomes letters to the editor. Letters should be about 300 words and may be edited by Courier staff. All letters must contain your full name and a correct daytime phone number. Letters can be delivered to the Courier office in CC 208 or sent by 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.
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Features
Courier
October 4, 2012
Designer aspires to set artistic example SHELLY MALDONADO Assist. Features Editor
Former PCC student, Jenn Kuca, speaks highly of how her experience at PCC helped her achieve her goals at Art Center College of Design. A former journalist who fell into an unexpected passion for art and winner of the summer Art Center 2012 Student Leadership Award, Kuca, sat comfortably in her chair and spoke about her experience at Art Center. “[It was] incredible. It was really intense, but it was everything I wanted,” she said, beaming with uncontrollable resilience. “Jenn has a wealth of experience from her pre-Art Center life, which has made her perspective more valuable,” said ACCD Instructor Chris Wu. “While it’s easy to view each assignment as a task, Jenn understood the intrinsic value and extracted the essence of every lesson, ... she ended up being an incredibly well-rounded designer.” After stepping foot in the marketing department of a small design company, Design Within Reach, Kuca realized she wanted
to head down the art and design path. “That’s when I realized that I didn’t just want to sell this stuff, I wanted to make it,” said Kuca. It was not long after that Kuca found herself at PCC, taking classes such as Product Design Application, Rendering and Advanced Rendering, before transferring to ACCD in pursuit of a career in art and design. Now a winner of the Summer Student Leadership Award, Kuca said PCC led her to the place she is today. “I knew how to appreciate art, but PCC gave me a cultural perspective,” said Kuca. “It taught me how to think critically, and it also taught me how to give and accept criticism. It was a bridge from the nondesign world to the design world.” As she pointed to a corner in her home, which showcased one of her designs, Kuca said: “I didn’t want to design furniture, I wanted to design a system that was open-ended and encouraged individuals to customize their own experience.” Instructor Stan Kong said the ambitious art student has a bright future. “Jenn will accomplish anything she sets her mind
Wendy Garcia / Courier Jenn Kuca is seen in Highland Park home, sitting in the modern design chair she built while attending Art Center College of Design. Left of Kuca are the other designs she has built during her studies.
to,” said Kong. “She is a strong example of the wonderful students that are coming out of the Art program here at PCC.” ACCD Instructor Liliana Becerra also spoke highly of
Volunteers from the Vietnamese American Student Association, dressed in Vietnamese brideswear, finish off their welcome dance at the MidAutumn Celebration making a "S" shape or the same shape as Vietnam as pictured in the back. VASA celebrated their culture with food, dancing, and communicating in the Creveling lounge on Sept. 28.
EMILY CHANG-CHIEN Features Editor
Jordan Harris / Courier
Teacher bonds with son at school For a freshman in college, everything is different than it was in high school. New teacher, new friends -- and your mom is one of the instructors. This is the case for Christian Ballas. “It is a little embarrassing to have my mom at PCC,” said Christian Ballas, psychology/ biology. Ballas may be a little embarrassed, but he has a lot of respect for his mother. “She taught me to aspire to become an educated person,” said Ballas. His mother, Julie Kiotas, is a psychology instructor. “It is the greatest feeling in the whole
the right time...always ready to strike.” Her advice for aspiring Art students: “Put your head down and work as hard as you can,” she said.
Art instructor gets inspiration from diversity
MidAutumn Celebration performed
MARY NURRENBERN Staff Writer
Kuca. “She is driven and very dependable once she makes a commitment to work on a project,” said Becerra. “She is going to go very far as she is very talented and at the right place at
world to have my son here,” said Kiotas. They don’t see each other a lot on campus, according to Kiotas. However, when they do, Kiotas will put her cheek out and Ballas will kiss it, according to Ballas. “I think their relationship is good,” said Suzanne Anderson, psychology instructor, who shares an office with Kiotas. Kiotas makes a great office mate and colleague,” said Anderson. Ballas ended up at PCC after applying to other schools, he said. “I wasn’t happy with the schools I got into,” said Ballas. He and his mother agreed that PCC was the best choice, according to Kiotas. “It is a great opportunity for me
to chose great faculty for him,” said Kiotas. Kiotas leaned back in her chair, put her hand on her face and paused for a few seconds. “No, there is not I would want to change about my son attending the college,” said Kiotas. Kiotas has worked at PCC for 19 years, since 1993. At the time, Christian was only one year old. He remembers when he was 5 and an uncle brought him to visit his mom; she was giving a lecture. “This was crazy and funny seeing my mom in front off all these people,” said Ballas. “I couldn’t do enough to repay her,” said Ballas.
Visual Arts and Media Studies instructor Richard “Rick” Osaka is a gentle, soft-spoken man. However, behind Osaka’s humble demeanor is a professional with an impressive repertoire: he has worked as a graphic designer, consultant and illustrator for big names such as NBC, the New York Times, McGraw Hill and Deutsch Advertising. Osaka admits that he has been an avid artist ever since the childhood grammar school days. Art has been an essential part of Osaka’s life as he continued pursuing it throughout grade school. Osaka attended PCC, and became a graduate of the Art Center College of Design. “I was always drawing,” Osaka said. The campus atmosphere contrasts greatly with the fast-paced work environment that Osaka was once accustomed to. “When I was heavily involved in illustration and graphic design, everything constantly revolved around myself [and work],” Osaka said. “With teaching, you almost have to get out of that mindset and [acknowledge] that there are 30 students out there who want to learn from you, so you can’t be so wrapped up in yourself. You have to be able to understand what their needs are and where their future skill levels should be at. [Teaching makes you think] more about others than yourself.” Working at PCC has exposed
Osaka to a melting pot of diversity, varying personalities and cultural backgrounds. Subsequently, this has greatly influenced his work. Osaka currently has a piece of artwork displayed in the Faculty Art show. “I wanted to [display] something that related from myself to the students — I wanted to find that connection…. [This is] a personal representation of what I have been teaching my students,” he said. Art instructor and colleague James Morphesis describes Osaka as both a commercial artist and fine artists. “Rick is a great guy. He does this unusual, wonderfully eccentric ‘Rick Osaka’ work; it really is one of a kind. It is very private, very unique, intricate, [time consuming and] well thought out,” said Morphesis. “The kind of attention he gives to his art work, he also gives to his students.” Morphesis remarks that Osaka, as an instructor, is thorough and personable, and allows his students’ personality to come out in their work, just as his comes out in his work. Osaka’s style of teaching resonates well with students. “He’s awesome! He takes a personal interest in every student and gets to know [students’] circumstances; [he does not] give a generic education,” said Esther Sadeli, photography. “[Teaching] is difficult, but personally I find it exciting,” Osaka said. “I prefer it this way.”
October 4, 2012
Courier
5
Piazza: popular choice for its convenience ANTHONY RICHETTS Online Editor
The room is packed and filled with noise. Students, chatting with friends, studying, and even playing trading card games occupy every seat. Everyone is eating what looks like a variety of freshly cooked meals, ranging from Chinese food to cheeseburgers, Italian food and fresh salads. This is the scene every day at lunchtime in the Piazza, the college’s main eatery, where students can not only get a freshly cooked meal, but other items one would find in a convenience store, such as energy drinks and candy. Convenience is the main reason students pack into the Piazza each day for lunch, saving them the time it would take to walk from campus to any one of the many surrounding fast food restaurants. “It’s more convenient [staying
on campus for lunch], instead of traveling out of the school and having to rush back to class,” said student Gerald Henderson. “I usually eat here because it’s close to my class,” said student Carlton Mah. “It’s not necessarily better or cheaper than the other places around, but they’re not that bad considering that it’s campus food.” The prices were the main complaint most students had about the food available in the Piazza, but when compared to all the other fast food restaurants around campus, they seem to all fall into the same price range. For example, when comparing the price of a double cheeseburger combo to its equivalent at the four major burger chains near campus: McDonalds, Jack in the Box, Carl’s Jr., and Burger King, the Piazza’s combo seems to fall in the average. The Piazza’s double cheeseburger combo goes for $5.99, whereas McDonald’s Double
Quarter Pounder with cheese combo costs $6.19, Jack in the Box’s Ultimate Cheeseburger combo costs $5.79, the Carl’s Jr. Big Carl Combo prices at $6.09, and Burger King’s Double Whopper combo takes the crown for the most costly combo at $6.39. When it comes to the Chinese food served in the Piazza, possi-
bly its most popular dishes, prices seem to be cheaper compared to the only competitor nearby, Panda Express. But the cheaper Chinese food means there’s less variety. A two-item combo served with rice or noodles in the Piazza is $5.99 compared to Panda Express’s twoitem combo that goes for $6.29. But at the Piazza there are only
four entrees offered, whereas at Panda Express there are 12 entrees to choose from. However, the Piazza does have a big variety of prepared meals ranging from pastries, boba drinks and freshly cut fruit. With so many choices and the convenience of being located on campus, it’s easy to see why the place is packed at lunchtime.
Xu Shen, 22, environmental science, chooses orange chicken and rice for lunch between her classes on Wednesday. Concepcion Gonzalez / Courier
SPRING SEMESTER 2013 - Important Registration Dates & Information Registration Schedule 10/12/12
2013 Spring Schedule of Classes available on PCC website.
10/26/12
Registration for DSPS (with authorization), EOP&S, Veterans, Foster Youth, Active Military.
10/29/12 – 11/19/12
Registration for FYE Pathway students (Monday – Friday only).
11/13/12 – 11/29/12
Registration for continuing students.
11/30/12
Registration for new DSPS students (in person, walk-in, with authorization).
11/30/12
Registration F-1 visa transfer students (online).
12/3/12
Registration for new F-1 visa students (online).
12/4/12 – 12/6/12
Registration for new in-district students & returning students.
12/7/12, 12/10/12 – 12/14/12
Registration for new out-of-district students & returning students.
12/17/12 – 12/20/12
Registration for concurrent high school students.
1/7/13
Spring 2013 term begins.
For faculty members who have verified conflicts which will prevent you from beginning your 2013 Spring teaching assignment on Monday, January 7, 2013, the following options are available: %
Schedule to teach your contracted load through 12 weeks, 8 weeks or 6 weeks classes (in person or online). This will place the conclusion of your contracted teaching assignment for the 2013 Spring Term on May 5, 2013.
%
Schedule to teach a portion/percentage of your contracted load during the Spring Term (January 7, 2013 - May 5, 2013) and arrange to teach the remaining contracted load during the initial period of the Summer Term. This will place the ending of your contracted assignment in mid-June.
%
Schedule to teach a percentage/portion of your contracted load during the Spring Term (January 7, 2013 - May 5, 2013) and arrange to bank the remaining percentage/portion of your contracted teaching load
%
Schedule to delay to teach your contracted load for the Spring Term until the Summer 2013 term (May 6, 2013 - August 2, 2013)
%
Any/all teaching assignments for the 2013 Spring Term that do not include the completion of your contracted load obligation to occur between the scheduled instructional period of January 7, 2013 – May 5, 2013 must be discussed with and agreed to by the faculty member’s Division Dean and approved by the Senior Vice President, Academic and Student Affairs prior to the beginning of the 2013 Spring Term on January 7th.
%
Any faculty member who is moving to an online teaching format or creating a new online course will receive priority for tech support.
For students who have verified travel/scheduling conflicts which will prevent your beginning classes on January 7, 2013 %
Once it is available, refer to the schedule of classes for courses that are offered in 12 weeks, 8 weeks and/or 6 weeks periods for the 2013 Spring Term.
%
Contact the Counseling Department to schedule an appointment to develop an Educational Plan.
%
Upon completion of your Educational Plan, you will be able to register in classes to ensure your Spring class schedule is completed prior to the conclusion of the Fall semester.
For more information, visit www.pasadena.edu/facts/three-term-schedule.cfm Questions? Email calendarhotline@pasadena.edu
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News
Courier
October 4, 2012
Union seeks faculty feedback through survey EMILY CHANG-CHIEN Staff Writer
The Faculty Association, through a survey sent out last week, is asking its members what actions it should take — up to and including a sickout or strike — in response to recent events on campus. The survey says that unless shared governance has been restored, faculty members are encouraged to share their opin-
ions in regards to “how to proceed.” The survey proposes a plethora of resolutions including: supporting walk out / strike action, faculty job action, a vote of no confidence for campus President Mark Rocha, picket on campus and at Board of Trustees meetings, pursuing Brown Act violations through legal means, among other options. The survey is informational, intended to give all faculty a sense
of the serious breach of shared governance by the administration, said FA president Roger Marheine via email. “We are asking faculty to take a close look at our options. The FA is faculty driven and will respond, as we always do, to faculty input,” he said. According to the survey, the District has violated shared governance in numerous ways by unilaterally cancelling the winter intersession, imposing the three
semester calendar, while disregarding various constituent groups. “…the District has refused to acknowledge the Associated Students and other student groups who have emphatically supported the maintenance of the current calendar,” the survey says. “…the District violated the Brown Act in not admitting students, faculty, and community members to Board of Trustees meetings, and in refusing to allow
full public commentary.” The FA emphasized that ignoring shared governance causes everyone to suffer enormous consequences. According to Marheine, the union understands that the cancellation of winter is disastrous for the students. “We faculty must support [the students] and join with them to save our college calendar,” he said. “The students are seeking our support, and they deserve it!” the email said.
School, district sued in bribery scandal
College system gets new chancellor
Continued from page 1
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the awarding of contracts. “Defendants had merely become a ‘rubber stamp’ for Hutchings or van Pelt,” the lawsuit against the school claims. “A contract agreed to by Hutchings and van Pelt was effective upon their agreement, regardless of whether Defendants, or any of them, had officially taken their action as the ‘rubber stamp.’” Another development revealed in the lawsuit against the school is that LED Global names itself as the whistleblower that prompted the District Attorney’s investigation into van Pelt and Hutchings. In addition to the negligence grievance, the lawsuit also repeats many of the alle-
gations outlined in the initial lawsuit against van Pelt and Hutchings. These include the reneged contract, or, ‘purchase order’ of $5 million, and the condition that van Pelt and Hutchings have an all-expenses-paid Mumbai excursion which they claim was for a factory site visit. “Defendants, by and through van Pelt and Hutchings, then promised that Pasadena City College would enter into a contract with plaintiff LED Global for the provision of LED lighting on campus of Pasadena City College so long as Plaintiff met two conditions,” the lawsuit reads. The conditions included the factory site visit, and the inclusion of an attorney who never actually made it to Mumbai.
Faculty Association continues to fight for winter Continued from page 1
everyone in May 2012, including the Chancellor. [and] it can negotiate the faculty contract in good faith, or it can unilaterally impose the ‘trimester’ and face the consequences.” During public comment at the meeting, Hamman said: “The FA’s position is that
the calendar is tentative because it has not been negotiated. From a legal perspective, it has to be signed off on to be an approved calendar.” “[The calendar] has not been approved by the FA, so if it goes forward, it will be an imposed calendar, a breach of our contract and an unfair labor practice.”
study at Harvard University. The new chancellor takes office on Nov. 6 following Jack Scott, who retired on Sept. 14. Scott was enthusiastic about the board’s choice. “I endorsed the choice they made,” he said on Friday. “I had frankly encouraged Dr. Harris to apply for the position because I thought he was extremely well qualified.”
Harris had some advice directly for PCC students. “Move through your education with earnest and purpose,” he said. “Stay the course with your educational plans. Don’t be discouraged. The pressure will pass and we’ll get through this [budget crisis].” About Harris’s leadership Scott said: “Good leaders don’t simply take the job because it’s easy. In bad times and good times you need good leadership and Dr. Harris is one of the best.”
Board approves new Human Resources director Continued from page 1
Before working for Mt. SAC, Hampton had worked for the Marin County Human Resources department as deputy of Labor and Employee Relations, where she faced sensitive and complex employment issues. Hampton said that even though PCC had decided to go from a vice president to an executive director model for Human Resources, she would still have most of the same duties as a vice president. “I feel that [the] human resources [department] can help PCC,” said Hampton. “It can help the school’s educa-
tional goals. This administration has a profound respect for human resources.” Miller said that he and the administration expect complete dedication to the Human Resources needs of PCC and a passion to support its Educational Master Plan. “I’m really looking forward to my first Board of Trustees meeting,” said Hampton. “I’ll get to meet everyone in the executive cabinet and get a better feel for things.” General Counsel Gail Cooper confirmed that Lastimado had resigned his position on July 1.
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Sports
October 4, 2012
Courier
Men’s soccer loses on road to East L.A. college BENJAMIN SIMPSON Staff Writer
The referee held a yellow card high in the air, but it quickly disappeared and was replaced by red. Tempers, and the referee, were the abiding story of the first half, as the Lancers visited the East Los Angeles College Huskies on Sept. 28, where they lost 0-3, and now have a conference record of 1-0-1. Twenty minutes into the game on Friday and Kevin Ramirez was out with consecutive yellows. The first for a late tackle. The second, according to Ramirez, was the referee not liking what Ramirez said after a different call. With 70 minutes to play, the Lancers were two goals down and playing with 10 men. “The ref changed the story of the game, the timeline,” said Ramirez after the game, but refused to comment any more as his emotions still ran high. The frustration began with a penalty kick called against the Lancers in the first minutes of the game, their arguments falling on the referee’s deaf ears. The Lancers goalkeeper Alex Radillo was able to get a hand on Israel Sanchez’s kick, but not stop it bouncing into the net. The tension grew, as the Lancers felt all the calls were going against them. Finally in the closing minutes of the first half, the referee showed a red card to the Lancers head Coach Edgar Manvelyan for comments made from the sideline. “Well, you know, first half, it
didn’t go so well.” said Associate Head Coach Henry Cabral after the game. “We got some bad calls. I don’t want to blame the referee, I would never want to do that, but the calls were a bit lopsided, and that really killed the game.” Pasadena began the second half determined to survive. And despite allowing one more goal, finished the game with a respectable 0-3 outcome. “Second half the guys came out and fought really hard,” said Cabral. “We had a couple opportunities to finish, [but] the ball didn’t bounce our way. In the end they were able to get one on us, but the guys played really hard.” But there was another story to this game, almost eclipsed by the anger. It was the Huskies midfield and defense. It was good. Most times when the Lancers pushed forward, they were surrounded by three Huskies. Trying to pass the ball, let alone dribble, is almost impossible in that situation, except of course, if you’re Ronaldo. This made it very difficult for the Lancers to penetrate East LA’s defense. But despite this, with Zachery Taylor making his strong runs up the left side, there were some moments when a goal was near. Vahagn Manoyan was able to get his head to a Taylor cross, and point it goal-ward, but the Huskies keeper kept it out with a diving save. “That was a good chance, but I couldn’t score then,” said Manoyan after the game.
Wendy Garcia / Courier Midfielder Kevin Figueroa attempts to get the ball in a 3-0 loss at East Los Angeles College on Sept. 28.
Women’s soccer ties Vikings at home ALAN LOPEZ Staff Writer
Despite an aggressive 17 total shots and more than a handful of quality scoring chances, the Lancers managed only one goal in a tie with visiting Long Beach City College. Lancer forward Zachary Larson rifled one through the goal as he broke through two defenders in the 68th minute of the second half. The Lancers kept a steady pressure throughout the game as they made nine shots on goal, yet were unable to capitalize on most of them. “We just couldn’t score,” said Associate Head Coach Henry Cabral. “We built up the ball really well, we just weren’t able to finish.”
Long Beach increased the offensive pressure in the second half though and eventually made the equalizing goal on the 76th minute in the second half on a close shot by Manuel Larios. “They pressed on us toward the end, [and] we kinda loosened up a bit,” said Lancer defender Michael Alcaraz. Both teams played aggressive defense in their first meeting of the season. Lancer goalie Alex Radillo made five saves on six shots on goal while the Vikings goalie made eight saves. The Lancers now have an overall record of 1-7-2 and a conference record of 1-1-1 according to www.cccaastats.org. The Lancers play LBCC again on Oct. 26 in an away game at 4 p.m.
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COUR IER
October 4, 2012
SPORTS
Football's 65-14 loss is worst on record NICHOLAS SAUL Editor-in-Chief
The Lancer football team got absolutely decimated in a 65-14 home loss to Cerritos College on Saturday in what was literally the worst loss in the 13 year history of Robinson Stadium. PCC remains winless for the season, and hasn’t won a game since Oct. 15 of last year. “I don’t have the record books in mind,” said Head Coach Fred Fimbres on his team’s historic loss, “particularly records like that.” Other than the fact that Cerritos racked up 522 total yards, PCC didn’t help its case by turning the ball over four times. The lone bright spot came in the second quarter when defensive lineman Dalyou Pierson sacked the Cerritos quarterback for a 12-yard loss that finally gave the home crowd some semblance of a play that gave them a reason to cheer. Pierson had a team-high eight tackles. Also, PCC finally managed to cut down on the number of penalties committed. But PCC looked absolutely helpless against the pass. The Cerritos quarterback duo of Morgan Fennell and Rene Medina easily tossed for 363 yards, five touch-
downs and no interceptions. “We’re struggling with assignments in our secondary,” Fimbres said. “The youth in our safety position is causing some confusion… we’re trying to figure out how to eliminate big plays in the passing game.” A total of 13 Falcons caught a pass, while only three Lancers were involved in the receiving game. Zeek Julien, the Lancer quarterback, threw for 102 yards and had a touchdown, and ran for 38 yards. Wide receiver Tairen Owens caught eight balls for 64 yards and the lone receiving touchdown. And Zach Sinclair scored a touchdown on a team-high 39 rushing yards. While the Lancer defense looked paper-soft, its offense is still in a transitional period. “We’re not sure who’s going to start next game,” Fimbres said referring to the revolving door situation at quarterback. “We’re struggling to move the football and so we’re trying to look for answers.” Despite the historic loss, Fimbres thinks the season is still salvageable. “Losing is part of the development of a young team,” he said. “We just have to get our performance to match what we know our [program] can do.”
Wendy Garcia / Courier Lancer Running Back Zander Anding gets sandwiched between two Cerritos Falcon defenders on Sept. 29 at Robinson Stadium. PCC suffered a bitter defeat losing 65-14.
Women get by Vikings 1-0 BENJAMIN SIMPSON Staff Writer
Sometimes it seems inevitable that a soccer match will finish with a scoreless draw. When neither team can get close to the other’s goal and when, infrequently, they do, the ball bounces wrong: off the post, across the face, straight to the keeper. A sluggish lull falls over the game that can only be changed by a stroke of genius – or luck. Tuesday, the Lancers got that luck. It was hot in Long Beach, with the thermometer reading 100 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. The game was dominated by both midfields, with neither team able to find something to break the stalemate. But with just seven minutes to play, it was Vanessa Capra who, with some hustle and a bit of luck, put the Lancers ahead. Isabella Montano lofted the ball toward the Viking goal, with Capra, Viking defender Marissa Macias, and Viking keeper Jeanette DeAnda all sprinting for the ball at the top of the penalty box. Keeper DeAnda reached the ball first with a sliding kick, but that kick ricocheted off the charging
Lancers forward Vanessa Capra scores the only goal on Oct. 2. Teresa Mendoza / Courier
Capra straight into the Viking net. Describing the goal, Capra hesitated: “[I was] unaware I guess, because I did not know what was going on at that moment. I just put a lot of pressure [on the goalie], I turned around and it went in.” The tempo had picked up slightly in the second half, as there were a few shots on goal, with Hanna Hermansson making two open runs for the Vikings toward the Lancers goal, but pulled them both wide. Cassandra Saavedra did a good job of running up the right flank, crossing the ball more than a few times. After the game Coach Randy Lilavois discussed the continuing season, as Pasadena is now at two wins, no losses and one tie (2-0-1) in conference play. “It’s a process. The girls and I have been talking ever since the summer,” Lilavois said. “It’s a process that we need to be better every game, and better with every half. Any chance we can take a step forward we do. That is absolutely happening in every game.”
Volleyball takes all three matches against LA Trade Tech TERESA MENDOZA Staff Writer
The women’s volleyball team cruised to a win Friday night against LA Trade Tech at the Hutto-Patterson Gymnasium in the South Coast Conference opener. The Lancers took all three matches in the game. The Lancers started the game off on top breezing through the first two matches, winning with scores of 25-12 and 25-14. Trade Tech put up a fair fight in the third set, but it wasn’t enough to match the Lancers who took the win 25-20. Throughout the third set the Lancers struggled with errors,
gaining and then losing the lead in a few instances. Trade Tech went up to 18-20 but PCC reclaimed their lead and ended five points ahead. Some of the points scored by Trade Tech in the third set were from Lancer errors. “We had too many unforced errors,” said Head Coach Tammy Silva. Outside hitter/libero Jennifer Estrada, who had 15 digs and served three aces, said the defense felt stronger but they could do better by practicing in fast pace. “The errors we made were due to the slow pace of the game that
we are not used to,” said Estrada. “We have to work together and talk more.” According to Coach Silva, the game was a good opportunity to have the reserves on the court. Despite the lead PCC had for most of the game, Trade Tech never seemed to lose hope and its determination was visible. Lancers’ starters middle back Megan Callen hit nine kills and had two blocks while middle blocker Jackie Valle-Acosta had nine kills in just 14 attempts. “[The game] was a good competition and beneficial for both teams, bringing us back to [work on] fundamentals and [Trade
Tech] could have a challenge and see where they can improve on,” said Callen. Opposite hitter Nora To’omalatai added 12 kills and 11 digs, according to the athletics website. Sophomore Jackie ValleAcosta admitted that it was not the team’s best performance and that players could step up their game. “We did very well [in] the first [set] and the beginning of the second [set]…there is always room for improvement,” said Valle-Acosta. “[The game] was a learning experience for the rest of the season.”
Jordan Harris / Courier While in mid-spike, freshman Thula Parks gets ready to hit an ace against LA Trade Tech for a 3-0 win on Sept. 28.