Volume 120 Spring 2014 Roundup Issue 3

Building a dream with technology

Student inventor takes on many roles while he engineers a bright future with advanced robotics

Mariah Sherriffe Roundup Reporter

Astudent’s goal is to find their future, but Casey Spencer is building his.

From hand crafting drones to discussing the latest technology on his KPCRadio.com show, Spencer seeks to be on the cutting edge of new technology.

The robotics junkie went from spending the majority of his time in the library to constructing quadcopters and hosting a radio show called “The Memory Dump.”

Also, Spencer is the treasurer of the Robotics Club and a freelance information technologist.

Spencer exhibited traits of creativity from an early age.

“As a child, I remember my parents always trying to hide the scotch tape from me so I would stop making my weekly box forts,” Spencer said.

The drive to create didn’t stop there. One of his most recent creations is a quadcopter, which includes a pair of goggles that give an aerial view through a wirelessly connected camera attached to the drone.

During Club Rush, Spencer used the quadcopter to do flyovers around other booths and students to draw attention to the Robotics Club.

“Initially, I was inspired when I went on YouTube and saw drone enthusiasts’ creations of their

aero technology low flyovers and thought, ‘If these people can build things from nothing, why can’t I,’” Spencer said.

Spencer’s creativity further developed when he became a member of the Robotics club in 2011.

“He is really responsible, has a great mind and is really dedicated,” said Yiran Tong, president of the Robotics Club. “When I asked him if he would be interested in being president, I knew he could do the job because of his experience. He has been with the club for two years and he has a lot of potential.”

During his time with the Robotics Club, he was asked to co-host “The Memory Dump,” a show that speaks about consumer technology and the history of science technology.

“People always told me I had a

radio voice and that I should go into voice acting, so when I got the part I was excited. I had always wanted to do it but always thought it would be a back up plan or side project,”

Spencer said. “With everything else I was doing, it seemed perfect.”

Spencer cultivated many

friendships during his time at the Robotics Club and from hosting his radio show.

“I have been friends with Casey for almost two years. We share similar interests and he has even got me into the radio station to co-host with him,” Robotics Club member Simon Tutak said. “He is a positive influence.”

Patience seems to be Spencer’s path to success, as noted by his

New neighborhood market brings community together at local high school Trading post nds a new location in the San Fernando Valley

Richard Zamora Roundup Reporter

The Melrose Trading Post opened its second location on Saturday, March 15 at Taft Charter High School in Woodland Hills with a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new weekly market which opens at 9 a.m. and will raise funds for the school.

The ceremony featured L.A. City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield who cut the ribbon, and LAUSD board member Steve Zimmer who spoke to the crowd and the estimated 150 vendors who showed up for opening day.

“To LAUSD folks here and to the LAUSD folks that are watching somewhere, this is great proof that when we choose to work together great things can happen,” Zimmer said. “This trading post, this marketplace, I really believe that this is going to continue for generations just like we have at Fairfax.”

The Melrose Trading Post (MTP) has been operating a market for the public at Fairfax High School for the past 16 years.

MTP was co-founded by Pierson Blaetz and Whitney Weston who originally approached the school for arts education classes but saw a greater need.

“It was a partnership with two

Jason Sudds / Roundup

MARKET: The Le Boustique bus at the Melrose Trading Post at Taft Charter High School March 15.

parents that were part of the parent organization at the time. Fairfax had 3,700 students and three involved parents,” Blaetz said. “They didn’t need arts education classes at that time, they needed money. They were really struggling. So we proposed this idea of a trading post in their parking lot.”

The Fairfax location operates

Sundays. An admission ticket is $3 with 100% of the entrance fees going to the school along with a portion of the vendor fees. The Taft market will use the similar structure with an admission price of $2.

“It was very humble in its beginnings, and now the last four Sundays we’ve been averaging close to 5,000 people attending

and we have 240 vendors,” Blaetz said. “At Fairfax High School over the 16 years we’ve raised over $5,000,000 for the school. Its primary goal is as a fundraiser for the school, but certainly an important goal is community building.”

Many of the vendors present for the opening were regulars from

[See POST, pg. 3]

Nicolas Heredia/Roundup

Spencerʼs drone flies around Pierce College campus.

friends and other members of the Robotics Club.

“He takes his time with everything. He gets it right the first time too. It’s kind of embarrassing for me,” said Nima Ganjehloo, an electrical engineering major and member of the Robotics Club.

Depending on whether or not Spencer decides to transfer, he will continue to host “The Memory Dump” and may consider to take the title of being club president for the Robotics Club if offered again.

His experiences so far have

allowed him to meet and network with billionaires including the Founder of Activision, Howard Marks, and Co-founder of Snapchat Evan Spiegel that confirm a passion for aero technology and radio hosting.

“To me, they were my creations. Even though my parents always encouraged me to continue, they always made sure they had their secret stash of tape for themselves.”

Health Center promotes awareness for HIV/AIDS Program o ers ee testing on campus

Tracy Wright Editor-in-chief

This semester’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Week featuring guest speakers in classrooms and free and confidential testing began at Pierce on Monday, March 17 and is hosted by the student Health Center.

focuses on the “Being Alive” speaker series, a program that involves lecturers living with AIDS or HIV speaking to students and faculty in an informal classroom setting.

“I already had a speaker last week for one of my classes and I have another one tomorrow,” criminal justice professor Kathy Oborn said.

“We are having a speaker come and speak to our new faculty in April. It is a very important topic.”

Free and confidential HIV/AIDS testing will begin on Monday, March 24 in Parking Lot 1 from 2-7 p.m. and end on Thursday, March 27. The mobile testing unit anticipates around 50-80 people per day, according to Beth Benne, director of the Health Center.

The first of two weeks of awareness includes guest speakers from the “Being Alive” series visiting classrooms and discussing their journey with HIV/AIDS, awareness, and prevention.

Professors can book a speaker to come to their classroom and inform students on their battles with the incurable disease.

“Getting the new generation informed is most important,” Health Center assistant Loralyn Frederick said. “We’re still active and trying to find a cure.”

The first week of awareness

The testing takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes and results of the testing are given that day.

“They use to have to draw blood and then come in the following week for results,” Benne said.

If students are not available for the free testing, the Health Center regularly provides HIV testing that costs $13 and results will be provided in 24 hours.

“This is so real still,” Benne said. “Nobody should be afflicted by this horrible disease.”

For more information on booking a speaker for a classroom or prevention methods, contact the Health Center at (818) 710-4270.

DRONE:

“He takes his time with everything. He gets it right the first time too. It’s kind of embarrassing for me.”

-Nima Ganjehloo Robotics Club member

“Getting the new generation informed is most important.”

-Loralyn Frederick Health Center assistant

STREET BEAT

Students react to Cafe delay

Shaking down safety protocols and procedures

Recent quakes cause concern over the

Protocols for emergency situations are important for college campuses, and having a campus in a geologically active state like California means being prepared for an earthquake is a major concern.

Experiencing an earthquake is rarely an easy ordeal. The one that hit the Los Angeles area the morning of Monday, March 17, rattled the nerves of many people and became a trending topic on Facebook and Twitter. During a quake, a sense of panic takes control and a person’s first instinct is to seek immediate cover to protect themselves from falling debris, furniture and shards of glass. What would happen if a major earthquake were to occur on campus?

In the event of an earthquake occurring on campus, Pierce College’s emergency protocols can

readiness of

easily be found on the school’s website under the Campus Safety & Sheriff link and “Emergency Booklets” are also available in each classroom. These booklets, that offer recommendations on what to do during an earthquake and a map showing evacuation sites around campus, should be placed inside a visibly labeled box, much like first aid kits, which can be easily seen and accessible to anyone. Having these items, however, isn’t enough.

Along with participating in the annual Great California Shakeout, Pierce should also implement a campus centric annual earthquake drill of its own.

Implementing these ideas help better prepare us for the next major earthquake when it happens and it is in everyone’s best interest if these were to be implemented as soon as possible.

ready for the job search. Start with people you know. Most of the time, employers will hire someone recommended by one of their current employees or someone they know over an unknown candidate with a decent resume.

campuswide response to emergency situations

Brian Walsh

While I share some of the concerns raised in the editorial “Less Preaching, More Teaching,” the focus should be on determining where that fine line exists between sermonizing and legitimate discourse. Yes, it is a problem when faculty are seen imposing political and religious views to a captive classroom audience. When this occurs, students are encouraged to seek out the counsel of the department chairs. I advise students to seek out the instructor after class or during office hours. Most of the time when students make an extra effort to reach out to express their concerns, a resolution is achieved. However, if the instructor has created an environment in which it is not safe to seek help, as questions or express a differing opinion, then there is a problem. When this behavior is

reported, it is taken very seriously.

The chair maintains the confidentiality of the student if necessary and the administration is notified. This system works. The department chair has a responsibility to students, faculty and the integrity of the profession. Adding new procedures for “advisers” to conduct investigations would likely be a violation of the contract and dangerous to academic freedom Multiple investigations can cause faculty to retreat into academic closets, denying the necessary openness of dialogue between faculty and students that is a hallmark of good instruction. Where is the line? Faculty cannot be expected to check their ideology at the door. Engaging students in debate is a fundamental to teaching. If the instructor is explaining their thought process and challenging a student’s beliefs, that is part of the learning process. If the instructor is creating a hostile learning environment or insulting an entire nationality or ethnic group, that is frankly unacceptable. We need a campus-wide dialogue to help both students and faculty see the fine line more clearly and know when it is being crossed.

-Corrections-

Volume 120 Issue: 2

Page 1: ‘Budget is in the black’ was authored by Lynn Levitt.

Page 1: Pierce College Contingency Fund should be the Los Angeles Community College District Contingency Fund.

Page 3: Rayman Lim’s title is the faculty lead for the PATH program.

Page 3: Anne Bruzzese should have read as Anna Bruzzese.

Page 4: Astronomy Society should be Astronomy Club.

Page 7: Cordell Landers attended Long Beach Jordan High School, not Long Beach Poly High School.

“How do I get my 19-year old grandson to get a job while going to college. Are there any tricks to get interviews for part time work?”

Helpless Grandmother

Dear Helpless, Getting a job in this economy can be tricky and frustrating. Throw in a school schedule to work around, and it can very well feel impossible. But the good news is: college students everywhere find and hold down jobs while going to school.

The very first thing you want to do when looking for a job is to be professional. Dress nicely and be polite. Most places don’t want to hire a slob. If a person doesn’t care about their physical appearance and the way they come off, they are probably not a good candidate to represent a company.

Along the same lines, when looking for a job, possible employers will look for you on social media, so make sure your Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram feeds are free of offensive material and don’t show you getting drunk constantly.

Have a clean, simple resume. Even fresh out of high school with no formal work experience, most people have activities from school, volunteer service, babysitting, clubs they were active in, or something they can list to show responsibility. Make sure all spelling is correct. Have five people look at it for accuracy and suggestions.

After all that preparation, you’re

Opinion

Marissa Nall jboyer.roundupnews@gmail.com

This may not seem fair, but as a company, it is safer to have someone vouching for their new employee. If someone they trust believes that a person would be an asset to the company and a good employee, that person is likely to be considered much more highly than someone with no ties.

After you ask around about openings at places where family or friends work, just start applying everywhere. Fill out applications wherever you go, and remember, always be polite.

Also be persistent. If you really want a job, let them know. Research the company and tell them why you would love to work for them. Call them a few days after you turn in your resume and remind them that you would love to work for them. Contact them again a few days later.

Many places only accept applications online. In these cases, after applying, go into the place and ask to speak to the manager. Tell them that you applied online and that you just wanted to introduce yourself and let them know you would really like an opportunity to interview. Be the face that sticks out to them. Have a firm handshake and a warm smile.

And when you get that interview? Be polite, be friendly, and show them why they want to decide to hire you.

Do you have a question for Kate? Don’t shy away, ask Kate anything by sending an email to AskKateAnything@gmail.com. For those who wish to to remain anonymous, your identity will be kept a secret.

A deadline is approaching and not for homework or midterms.

March 31 marks the last day to arrange for qualifying medical insurance under the Affordable Care Act. After that, people get slapped with a fee and still have to pay any medical bills out of pocket.

The fee is called the “individual responsibility payment” and it’s aimed at discouraging those without medical insurance from remaining uninsured, according to Healthcare.gov.

Since it’s currently illegal to refuse emergency care to anyone, those with serious medical needs and no insurance to pay for preventative care wind up waiting until their condition is bad enough to admit them to the emergency room. As well as being inherently unsafe, this can lead to incredibly hefty bills and even bankruptcy for the person receiving care.

When they go unpaid, they result in higher costs from insurance premiums to tax hikes for everyone else in the system.

However, this fee doesn’t actually solve the problem of people remaining uninsured. Rather, it just levels a new expense on people who usually can’t afford insurance in the first place, while giving them no coverage in the event of illness or accidents.

The simple solution is for America’s 45 million uninsured adults to enroll in qualifying medical insurance, including but not limited to: private plans, Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, Tricare and Obamacare.

For those who cannot afford it, though, or for those who are unaware of their insurance options, the fee charges at least 95 dollars per person this year, and it goes up significantly for 2015 and after.

The fees would be tracked and enforced by the IRS, according to an article by Jennifer Davidson:

“The Penalty Fee for Not Having Health Insurance in 2014: How Much Is It and Who’s Exempt?” For those with insurance, there will be a new form required as proof when tax season comes around. For those who do not have it, there will be yet another charge for the IRS to garnish wages.

Though lack of coverage is a problem in America, this seems like an inadequate solution and a blatant plug for Obamacare. The argument for or against nationalized healthcare is an unnavigable abyss on both sides. But this fee, as part of the Affordable Care Act, doesn’t stop taxpayers and insured households from bearing the burden of expensive medical treatment for the uninsured. It simply penalizes people for being uninformed or unable to pay. There are other solutions that could be applied. Preventative care is possibly the most effective way of minimizing massive healthcare costs and incentives could be given to care buyers and insurers alike to make these services more available.

Similarly, tax breaks and other forms of incentives could be given to businesses to extend insurance to part-time employees, offsetting the costs businesses face by their own fees and penalties under the new healthcare legislation.

As it stands, however, this fee appears to be nothing more than an ill-thought-out way of making the Affordable Care Act appear more successful, at steadily increasing costs to taxpayers who are already having trouble making ends meet.

Letter to the Editor

History Department chair

Photo: Jasson Bautista

“I feel lied to, betrayed and very hungry.”

-David Deloya Pierce College student

“They’re already breaking promises. I’m still paying for overpriced food that’s not that good.”

-Rafael Romos Pierce College student

“It would be nice to go inside an air conditioned room instead of eating outside.”

-Celeste Becerra animal science major

“It shows the college is making progress with the construction.”

-Ronald Young business law major

Photos by Nico Heredia.

Quotes gathered by Kitty Rodriguez.

incident report

New venue for market

March 6 - March 15

– Compiled by Genna Gold

3/6 - Student incident - Student reported someone had siphoned gas from her vehicle in Parking Lot 7.

3/10 - Found U.S. currency - Student found $5 on campus and turned it in to the sheriff’s office.

3/10 - Burglary, battery - A student attempted to steal a book from the campus bookstore, and pushed a security officer out of the way as he attempted to run during questioning. The student was arrested.

3/11 - Forgery, counterfeit money - A student was caught attempting to use a counterfeit $50 bill at the bookstore.

3/12 - Student incident - Two students were arguing over a parking spot in Parking Lot 7.

3/12 - Non-student incident - A non-student was cited for being on the softball field with an open container.

3/12 - Student incident - A student refused to leave his class, Math 1400, after the instructor asked him to.

3/13 - Student incident - A student got into the pool after he was told not to due to an in-progress swim practice class.

pierce college sheriff‘s station

General Information: (818) 719 - 6450

Emergency: (818) 710 - 4311

Fairfax market that were willing to travel to the San Fernando Valley. Mieka May, a 22-year-old vendor that runs Le Boustique, a hand made jewelry and clothing boutique inside a 1961 Ford bus, is always ready to travel.

“When I was 15 years old, before I could legally work, my mom bought a booth at the market and I sold little handmade treasures that I would make. I raised money and got this bus, renovated it and turned it into a boutique,” May said. “Now I take it on the road and I’m my own boss. I’ve worked with the Melrose Trading Post for many years and we’re really excited about the new Taft market.”

Natalie Iturbe has been the vendor manager for the Fairfax Trading Post for the past three years and was on the consulting team that was charged with finding a new location.

“We were looking for a place specifically in the valley for Saturdays and we found the people at Taft were so excited,” Iturbe said.

“The booster club looked like they really had their business together, and they were actually supporting the school, which is very important to us. We looked at some other schools but Taft really was the best fit.”

In regards to other markets in the area such as the Topanga Vintage Market, Iturbe feels there is no conflict and the more going on in the valley the better.

“I think it’s better for both of us that we both exist out here. The fact that we’re on different days makes it so it’s not really a competition,”

Iturbe said. “It’s more like we’re making this area an establishment for this kind of event. I think it’s exciting that more things like this will be happening in the valley.”

For vendor Helene Layne, a documentary filmmaker who moved to the valley a year ago from Miami, being a part of the trading post was almost destined to occur.

“I was looking up the Melrose Trading Post because I had gone there and I was thinking about being a part of it but I live in the valley and thought I should do something here in my own home,” Layne said. “Then I saw this location was opening and I thought this was meant to be. I love the idea of supporting the high school.”

Layne buys small pottery from other markets and thrift stores and plants cacti she gets from a wholesaler. Being conscious of the drought, she uses her plants to make others aware of the value of repurposing goods and to be environmentally conscious.

“I met the writer of ‘The Secret’ and he said to do something that makes you happy,” Layne said. “I love working with nature and I love the idea of reusing the vases and the pottery, working with the environment and it’s a way to talk to people and engage them.”

The name Melrose Trading Post comes from the location of Fairfax High School, which is on the corners of Melrose and Fairfax, but the founders wanted to add something that embodied the spirit of what they wanted to accomplish with the market.

“Whitney and I at the time didn’t like the name ‘flea market’ so we

Cafeteria grand opening postponed a week Electrical and plumbing problems plague the new food court

Electrical and plumbing problems with the campus cafeteria pushed back the opening date to Tuesday, March 25, according to Larry Kraus, associate vice president of Administrative Services.

“The cafeteria is not open today,” Kraus said Monday, March 17. “We are running behind.”

John and Jahan Jomehri, brothers and co-owners of Lovebirds Cafe and Bakery said that they were unable to open on the scheduled

date of March 17 due to electrical and plumbing problems with the building. The food court on the first

floor of the Library/Learning Crossroads building has opened its doors to students. Students can sit in the food court as well as use the restroom facilities, but no food vendors have opened.

Lovebirds Cafe and Bakery has signed a nine month contract with Pierce College. They will be the temporary vendor on campus. There is no word on a long term vendor.

Students did not know that the cafeteria was going to be open on Monday, or that there even would be a cafeteria on campus.

“I was not even aware that we were supposed to have one,”

freshman John Hardy said.

The plans for the soft opening on March 25 were tentative, in part, because the school did no advertising.

The Jomehri brothers are still looking for employees on campus for Lovebirds Cafe and Bakery. Interviews for students took place on Tuesday, March 18, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

A small menu is being planned that will include grab & go sandwiches, drinks, and hand squeezed fresh juices, according to the Jomehri brothers.

“If they want more, we will bring it,” John Jomehri said.

Agriculture fundraiser for furry college kid Proceeds raised will go toward board and care for the orphaned goat

Richard Zamora Roundup Reporter

Students in the Pierce College Agriculture Department have started a fundraiser on bonfirefunds. com in the hopes that they’ll be able to adopt one of the farms newest additions: an orphaned baby goat

named Kronk.

The students are selling T-shirts, long sleeve shirts and sweatshirts all featuring a graphic of the little goat and the slogan “Kronk is Kool” to ensure that Kronk is able to live out his life on the Pierce farm.

“So far we have $167 dollars raised,” said Ingrid Alvarenga, a third year pre-veterinary major.

“Technically the animals pay for themselves to live here by producing eggs or producing babies.”

Kronk is a special case. Ian Lewis, a pre-veterinary science major, revealed the origin of the name “We take inspiration for the names of all the babies from different cartoons,” Lewis said.

“In the movie, ‘The emperor’s new groove’ one of the main characters is named Kronk and they never mention his mom.”

The story of the real Kronk’s mother is a reality of life on the farm.

The female goat died about a month and a half ago during kidding, the process of a goat giving birth. The students have tried to find Kronk another female to nurse him but have been unsuccessful.

“These animals have multiple litters so some have up to three babies of their own,” Lewis said.

“They only have two udders to give milk so if their own kids have to fight for them they won’t let some strange baby nurse from them.”

This has lead to the need for

Kronk to be bottle-fed. As a result, Kronk has grown very attached to the students, which is atypical according to Alvarenga.

“They’re gregarious animals,” Alvarenga said. “They usually go in groups so they’re never alone and they’ll follow the crowd.”

“Whenever we have animals that are adopted, they tend to take on their own personality outside of the species,” Lewis said. “If we walked into any of the pens the animals would scatter, but the ones that are bottle-fed are the ones that want to walk up to you.”

Greg Mruk, senior ag technician, explains what the “adoption” would entail.

“When they adopt an animal what that means is that animal cannot be sold for any purpose and becomes kind of like one of their mascots,” Mruk said. “By raising the money it helps pay for it’s feed and care going forward. I think its a great idea.”

One of the reasons that an animal

MARKET: Pierson Blaetz and Whitney Weston, co-founders of the Melrose Trading Post, at the grand opening of the Melrose Trading Post March 15.

we’re looking for an alternative name. I like the feel of ‘trading post’ because it felt like it was more than just money being exchanged, that there was a trade of good will,” Blaetz said. “And I just like those images of a western trading post that was a place where people gathered to find out what was going on in the community.”

The Melrose Trading Post will feature vendors, food, and live music at the Taft High School parking lot on the corners of Winnetka and Ventura from 9a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday. Pets are allowed on a leash for responsible owners. For more information on the event, visit melrosetradingpost. org.

Meghan McGillicuddy Roundup Reporter

Jason Sudds / Roundup

“The cafeteria is not open today. We are running behind.”

-Larry Kraus Associate Vice President of Administrative Services

Kronk, the baby goat,

Lights, camera, English class

New full-time professor connects with his students through movies

Jordan Utley-Thomson Roundup Reporter

In a world where students see English class as a frightening experience involving dead white males, inaccessible readings, and esoteric lectures, only one man can save them.

Their answer is forty-oneyear-old Brad Saenz, a new, fulltime English professor at Pierce College, noted among students for his distinctive personality and unorthodox teaching methods.

“English is a subject that a lot of people don’t like, and they’re kind of intimidated by it,” Saenz said. “I try to defy their expectations by making it seem like the class that they will actually want to come to. I want to come to class too!”

Saenz assigns papers based on a topic that is familiar to his students’ personal lives. Saenz allows the thesis to be centered around more informal things such as Disneyland or a blockbuster movie.

“Nothing constructive was ever done without passion,” Saez said, paraphrasing Ralph Waldo Emerson. “You have to be into it.”

Alex Lucy, a 19-year-old undecided major currently taking English 101 with Saenz, enjoys the friendly and relaxed atmosphere of the class.

“He tied in Batman with an essay,” Lucy said. “You won’t get bored in his class at all.”

Saenz is also known for engaging with his class in a sort of way that one would in an one-onone conversation between friends meeting for coffee. Charismatic banter and genial exchanges are the rule - not the exception - to his lectures.

“It’s important that they feel comfortable in the class,” Saenz said. “It’s like if you’re acting. If

you’re stressed and nervous, you’re not going to be able to perform, and it’s the same thing with writing.”

The relationship between Saenz and his students can be very strong at times, to the point that one

student was afraid of turning in subpar work because it would feel like a friend was reading it.

“They actually enjoy the class, they enjoy me, they enjoy the material so much that they would be

embarrassed to turn in bad work,” Saenz said.

Saenz, originally from Houston, graduated from the University of Texas with a bachelor’s degree in English in three years. He then got his master’s in English at the University of Houston and began his career in academia.

Before landing a full-time position at Pierce College last year, Saenz held a myriad of part-time teaching positions at institutions such as Pasadena City College and Hartnell College, including Pierce.

Saenz was also the Associated Student Organization adviser for ten years.

According to Saenz, the departments here don’t have the politics and academic infighting he’s seen at other campuses.

“The English department here is really good,” Saenz said. “I can’t say that about a lot of the schools I’ve worked at.”

Not only are students noticing and liking Saenz, but other professors are as well.

“Brad is a great teacher who brings passion and enthusiasm to each of his classes,” department chair of English Donna Accardo said. “His wide knowledge of film and literature is bringing that class to life.”

Saenz also has another side to him: Hollywood. He once tried to break into scriptwriting, but could not get a script sold in the cutthroat environment.

“It’s a real tough racket,” Saenz said.

This has not broken the movie buff’s passion for film. A selfdescribed James Bond fan, Saenz also shows his love for franchises such as Alien and Batman with original release posters decked out all over his office.

“I have so many Batman posters, it’s sad,” Saenz said.

Pizza grazing to fund stargazing journey Astronomy Club will raise money for weekend at Lake Cachuma

Jessica Boyer Roundup Reporter

Astronomy Club members are using pizza this coming Friday at PizzaRev to raise funds for their stargazing camping trip.

“I know that all of the club members will be [there], we have also invited all of our family and friends,” said Hillary Manly, president of the Astronomy Club. “There can be anywhere between 20 people or 100.”

The fundraiser will be located at the PizzaRev on the corner of Canoga Ave. and Victory Blvd. on Friday, March 21 between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Fifteen percent of the proceeds will fund the club’s stargazing camping trip.

If more than 100 people attend the fundraiser, PizzaRev will donate 25 percent of the proceeds to

NOT JUST THEORY: The

College

Nico Heredia

Club 411: Film Club encourages producers

Group focuses on creation of short videos for real life industry experience

Stacey Arevalo Roundup Reporter

Mental thrillers, a fascination with gangster movies and an admitted love for sci-fi films were the focus of a conversation among a circle of students inside a Pierce College classroom.

Their interest in movies brought the diverse group together at the first meeting of the spring semester for the Pierce College Film Club.

The club was just created last semester by Jonathan Stein, a student at Pierce who not that long ago moved to the United States from Israel in order to pursue a career in film.

“A college that is in the entertainment capital should have a film club,” Stein said.

The club emphasizes film production, not just theory, and the genres they focus on include dramas, parodies and comedies all with a theme that is relevant to student life at Pierce, according to Stein.

Stein ultimately hopes that those students that seek to become members of the club have a serious commitment to the industry.

of the returning members of the club from last semester.

“The trailer was the launch and it was fun working on it,” said Rodriquez, who played a zombie in the short film.

Rodriguez’s intentions were similiar to Stein’s in the beginning of last semester: he hoped to gain enough support to create a film club at Pierce College.

“My friend and I had started collecting signatures and he beat me to it,” Rodriguez said, laughing.

Tommy Crockett, a 30-yearold business administration major, is also planning on returning to the club this semester to pursue his proclaimed passion for the film industry.

film club.”

the Astronomy Club.

“We wanted to go somewhere relatively close to where everybody lives and I’ve been going camping at Lake Cachuma every year,” Manly said. “It’s ridiculously beautiful because it’s on the other side of the mountains in Santa Barbara and at night there is no light pollution.”

The trip will span three days beginning Friday, March 28 and ending Sunday, March 30.

“I am pretty excited,” club member Daniel Best said. “I’ve only seen a lot of stars in Yosemite but this is on a whole other level.”

Adviser Dale Fields will be bringing a telescope provided by the college, and members plan on bringing their own to view constellations, stars, and galaxies.

“I’m happy to see that this student-led organization has come up with so many interesting things to do and I’m excited to come along

to show people more about the sky,” Fields said.

Members ask that anyone attending the fundraiser presents a

flyer to the cashier, or just mention the club to support them.

“I’m stoked, its gonna be a lot of fun,” Manly said.

“We want people who have an interest in film and are passionate to help create and take part of our productions,” Stein said.

Last semester during the Halloween Carnival, the club created a short zombie parody that can be found on YouTube under “Halloween Carnival Trailer - Pierce Film Club.”

“We are hoping to continue the idea from last semester since we have a script left over but I won’t tell you all the details now,” Stein said.

Each video, as explained by Stein, will only last seven minutes maximum in order to preserve the audience’s attention.

Marlon Rodriguez, a 20-yearold film major at Pierce, is one

“It’s a fun club,” Crockett said. “You get a chance to step out of your shell and make long friendships.”

Crockett encourages students to join the club so they can take full advantage of what it has to offer.

“Why would you not want to join if film is your forte?” Crockett said. “Plus, I’m here and I am not that bad on the eyes.”

The club meetings are planned to take place Mondays at 3:40 p.m. in either Room 1310 or 1202.

For more information, visit the club’s Facebook page under Pierce College Film Club.

/ Roundup

Pierce

film club consists of members (left to right) Robert Garcia, Edward Rosales, Felipe Martinez, Marlon Rodriguez, Emily Zulveta, Aria Jackson, Aaron Alexander, Jonathan Stein, Tony Perez, (bottom) Rimi Al Hassanieh and Matthew Jones.

Nico Heredia / Roundup

STARS: Club members (left to right) Daniel Best, William Hamilton, and Elizabeth Avelar listen to adviser Dale Fields during a meeting.

“Nothing constructive was ever done without passion. You have to be into it.”

-Brad Saenz English Professor

“A college that is in the entertainment capital should have a

-Jonathan Stein President of the Film Club

Caleb Johnson / Roundup

FILM BUFF: One of the new full-time English professors Brad Saenz in front of one of his many movie posters in his office at Pierce.

Fashion Clothes Line

Mink coats, six-inch Louis Vuitton stilettos and Tom Ford suits are not common findings throughout the mall at Pierce College this spring. Instead, the majority of students on campus can be spotted walking up and down, dressed

Stacey Arevalo Roundup Reporter

with budget-friendly getups that keep comfort in mind. Jeans, sneakers and basic tees dominate the scene at Pierce but yet a few trends have managed to sneak into the wardrobes of students, adding pops of color and personality to their outfits.

Tia Goossen, an 18-year-old communications major, finds inspiration from the television series “Gossip Girl.”

“I look like a school girl today,” Goossen said. “Today I woke up and decided to take a bit more time choosing my outfit that was inspired by Serena,” Goossen said, referring to the character Serena van der Woodsen.

Goossen’s outfit of the day (OOTD) consisted of a white long sleeved top, which she tucked into a short burgundy skater skirt with black polka dots spread all over. For her footwear she chose dark brown, knee-high leather boots that she paired with grey knee-high socks. Goossen finished off her look with a grey knit scarf that was looped around her neck and matching grey sunglasses.

Michael Parraguirre, a 23-year-old anthropology major described his style as casual. Parraguirre favors the freedom men have in this century to show their individualities through fashion in comparison to the previous decades when all men dressed alike.

Parraguirre, who admits to being a bargain shopper, was wearing a pair of black plastic glasses that he found at a local shop for $50 together with a white buttoned up shirt that peeked through a v-neck grey sweater he wore over it. The rest of his look included a pair of tan colored skinny pants that were rolled up to his calves above sockless black lace-up shoes.

“People will treat you differently depending on what you are wearing. If you are wearing a suit you get treated in a different way than if you were wearing a baseball hat and shorts,” Parraguirre said.

Sarah Elias, a 19-year-old dance major, described her OOTD as “Warped tour ’06.” The Vans Warped Tour is a summer music festival that Elias says has influenced her style.

“I am a combination of a grunge pinup/music video girl,” Elias said. “I’m inspired by the 40’s and 50’s and by the music industry.”

Elias, who shops at stores like American Eagle Outfitters, Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW), Hot Topic and Mac Cosmetics was wearing a red plaid shirt which she borrowed from her dad, a white print tee, blue jeans, red lipstick and red high-top Converse sneakers.

Daniel Gomez, a 19-year old music major, describes his style as a “skater-rocker type.”

“I skate everywhere and I usually wear beanies, flannels and Vans shoes,” Gomez said.

Gomez, who was wearing a denim vest over a black tank, a black beanie, black jeans and black Vans said the weather also played a role in his choice of clothing.

“My vest is celebratory today, since I just turned 19,” Gomez said. “Plus it’s too hot and I am feeling happy; feeling 19.”

Emotions needed to act on stage

First year student appears in third campus production

Richard Zamora Roundup Reporter

A first year Pierce student will star in the Los Angeles Pierce College Theater’s spring production of “Incorruptible,” a dark comedy set in a monastery in 13th century France.

The play will feature Michelle Haulbauer, who said the show is about a bunch of monks in a run-down monastery. The monks are trying to get people to come in and pray to their saint who hasn’t performed a miracle in about 13 years.

“My character gets mistaken as an incorruptible, which is a corpse, so devoid of sin it does not decay,” Haulbauer said.

Haulbauer, 18, is a theater major and while this is her first year at Pierce, “Incorruptible” will be Haulbauer’s third play at LAPC Theater.

“Theatre has been a part of my life for a very, very long time. I’ve been in productions every summer since third grade,” Haulbauer said. “I joined the productions at my high school and then here, so I’ve been doing something at least once a year and I still love it so it just seemed like the right kind of choice.”

The production, set in the dark ages, will be typical of the characteristics of the time, with a more absurd take on the period.

“It’s the kind of comedy that’s classified as a farce, which means it’s just sort of uproarious and outrageous. There’s a lot of physical comedy in the show too,” managing director Michael Sande said.

Eileen Gizienski is the costume designer and has been an adjunct instructor in theatre arts for 2 years.

“We didn’t have any particular stock from this period so we’re building a lot on this show, which means we start from scratch,” Gizienski said.

The allure of the stage, however, isn’t just in the story

being portrayed. The actors that fill the roles, or the fine costumes they wear: all of this combined with a live audience is what makes the theatre a unique medium.

“It’s an interactive medium,” Sande said. “It’s in the moment and if you screw up there’s no going back, so there’s a certain excitement to it that is not unlike watching a live sporting event.”

Haulbauer said she recieved some inspiriation by accident on the first day of school with some fellow theater students.

“We were confused because the directory still says the theater is up on the hill, but we all banded together as a group of lost students and went down looking for the right

classroom,” Haulbauer said.

Half of them walked into the wrong class and sat down just in time to hear the teacher say there is no such thing as anger: anger is a false emotion and it is a way to hide what you are truly feeling underneath.

“So when you are learning about a character, don’t jump straight to anger. Instead think why are they angry,” Haulbauer said.

“Are they disappointed? Are they sad? Are they giving up so that’s where they’ve gone to? And that has already helped me.”

“Incorruptible” opens Friday, March 28 at 8 p.m. Visit their website - http://info.piercecollege. edu/theater/

by Nicolas Heredia / Roundup

Art walkway found under brush

Horticulture hosts earth day to show off clean up

Glass bottle designs, a dolphin mosaic, and precisely placed rock patterns sit neglected under overgrown plants and tree debris in the center of the Pierce College Arboretum.

An artistic walkway, which was created by Pierce students in the various landscape construction classes over the years, is just one of many areas in the arboretum that face the danger of the unknown.

“We [still] teach landscape construction but it’s just wherever we can do it,” Jody LaChance, professor of horticulture, said as he walked along the concrete. “We don’t do a lot of permanent things because, what’s going to happen?”

LaChance said since the economy took a hit back in the late 2000’s, funding has been hard to come by. A plan was put in place to build new facilities for the department, but suddenly things were put on hold.

Dr. Leland Shapiro, professor of animal and veterinary sciences, believes the program has value, but feels the facilities need some updating. He touched base on the subject during a walk around the Arboretum’s Braille Trail.

The long neglected area has been receiving some much-needed attention from volunteer Gary Humecke, but not without some obstacles.

“I’m a real nature lover, I’ve visited every state park there is

probably,” Humecke said with a chuckle. “I wanted to give back so about three years ago, we cleaned out the nature center [and the] Canyon da Lana and we were kicked out of there.”

Humecke, a landscape contractor and former Pierce student, has a sentimental attachment to the outdoor learning area that used to compliment his studies. He is unsure why people would try and prevent him from helping out.

“The bureaucracy is so secretive, we really don’t know [why],” said Humecke. “The sheriff just shows up and says ‘leave.’”

Familiar with the neglect the horticulture program has received,

“There’s a great job market for our graduates. There’s an interest, but you have to have a facility to get the students to come here,” Shapiro said. “Students come and they see our horticulture buildings which were built in the 40’s and nothing’s been done to [them] since.”

Humecke will continue to dedicate his time to beautifying the arboretum in hopes that someday, students will be able to enjoy the area just as he did when he attended Pierce.

“I went to school here 40 years ago and I believe that this is an asset that shouldn’t be wasted,” Humecke said.

The horticulture department, led by students, is planning to continue clean up and schedule an open house for Earth Day, encouraging everyone on campus to come view the new landscaping and plantings that have been put in place.

Photographs

Lynn Levitt / Roundup FOUND: Art walkway found in Horticulture area.

SCHOOL GIRL

NERDY CHIC

GRUNGE PIN-UP CHICK AND SKATER BOY

Carrlyn Bathe Roundup Reporter

“The sheriff just shows up and says ‘leave’.”

-Gary Humecke Contractor

Nelger Carrera / Roundup

SHOWTIME: Michelle Haulbauer at rehersal in LAPC Theater Thursday, March 6

Feeeeding Time

Hay bails tossed methodically into feeding stalls, bottled milk being prepped, waters being refilled. These are the sights of feeding time on the Pierce College farm where twice a day, students from Dr. Shapiro’s 501 class, tend to the animals. “For us, we don’t get a vacation,” said Henry Monge, student farm leader. “Winter break, summer break, holidays, no matter what, we’re always here,” Part of Monge’s job is taking care of the recently born animals. More than 30 baby animals call the farm home. One goat in particular has received a lot of attention. Previously known as number ‘184,’ farm students have given the baby goat, also known as a ‘kid,’ the name Kronk. You can visit Kronk and the other baby animals during the Pierce College Farm Walk on April, 27th, 2014.

RIGHT: Samatha Clark, 22, watches as the lamb tries to run away as clark tries to put the lamb in the sheep unit.

TOP RIGHT: Daniel Okado, 24, animal scie nces major, caresses a goats at one of the goat units.

RIGHT: Jourdane Canon, 22, walks away after putting out food for the sheep and lamb.

FAR RIGHT: Pre -vet students clean one of the goat units.

Copy: Carrlyn Bathe Photos: Nelger Carrera

Football player tackles bullying

Defensiveback brings “Be You” campaign to Pierce College

Jessica Boyer Roundup Reporter

From bullying players on the field to leading an anti-bullying campaign off the field, Pierce College student and current defensive back for the football team, Bobby Baker brings the ‘Be You’ campaign to the college.

“The campaign is to promote and bring awareness to individuality and anti-bullying,” said Baker. “It’s to help and influence people to be themselves.”

Baker has been involved with the “Be You” campaign for about a month, learning about it from his friend, Anthony McLaughlin.

“I think that it’s great that athletes are getting involved,” said Bob Lofrano, athletic director of the Pierce College Athletic Department. “Athletes are usually people out in front and are confident about themselves. I think they’d be a good spokesperson for an anti-bullying campaign. That’s an important topic and hats off to the athletes who have a part in that.”

The “Be You” campaign was founded in 2010 (beyoucampaign. org) by a publicist named Joseph LaCour, known as J. Ryan, and uses photographs to spread awareness about anti-bullying.

The photographs, which are black and white, show individuals

representing themselves with objects that reflect who they are.

The campaign has receive notable attention from celebrities some of which include actress Adrienne Ballon.

“Bobby is a smart kid who has influence,” said McLaughlin. “There are a lot of kids being bullied in school. There are a lot of people who feel like they don’t have people to talk to and we want people to know they do have people to talk to.”

Baker was bullied all throughout school, but the worst time was in middle school, he said.

“When I was younger, the black people would say, ‘Oh you’re not full black, you can’t hang out with us’ or the white people would say ‘You’re not full white, you can’t hang out with us.’ When I got older, I realized that I could hang out with whoever I want,” Baker said.

Baker plans on hosting conferences at high schools to bring anti-bullying awareness to younger generations. He also plans to bring the campaign to Pierce.

“At Pierce College, the first thing is to bring awareness and get a lot more athletes involved. Athletes have the most influence out of the entire student body,” Baker said.

“Each club has fans, followers and people going to their games. Not only do the individual athletes have fans, but the entire team has fans. They reach everyone in the stands,

Sports briefs

every classroom and all of their friends on social media. I feel if you start there, it will go widespread.”

Men’s volleyball Tennis Softball

After winning three straight games, the Pierce College men’s tennis team saw its streak come to an end against Glendale Community College on Friday March 13 by a score of 6-3.

Pierce now drops 8-4 for the season and 2-2 in conference play, on the other hand Glendale improves to 9-2 overall and a perfect 5-0 in conference play.

The Brahmas had not lost since since Feb. 20 against Glendale who, with the win, takes both games this season against Pierce. The win also marks Glendale’s second win in a row.

Trading in the cleats for gardening beets

From the gridiron to gardening

Marissa Nall Roundup Reporter

With the season over, most football players take the time to relax and work on their game for the upcoming season. You do not expect to see them working on a field during the hot California summers. But that’s where football player Akeem Gonzales spent a recent Saturday, working toward a degree in horticulture.

Gonzales came to Pierce this semester after transferring from Oregon State University. Restrictive requirements would have kept him from changing his major to horticulture and lost him his scholarship.

“I made my decision to leave because it wasn’t what I wanted,” said Gonzales, who is not eligible to play at Pierce due to his previous involvement with a Division 1 institution. “Just football in general, the way they sell it to you coming out of high school, it’s really not what people think. You’re like a commodity.”

Gonzales still works out with the football team to stay in shape and network with other coaches and players. However, his main focus, he says, is on his grades and education.

“I just look at it, there’s enough athletes and stuff like that. We need people to come out and help the community,” Gonzales said. “Growing food is just like printing money. If you can grow food you can help people out.”

From Pierce, Gonzales would like to transfer to another U.C. and is working with his professors to find out which ones have the best programs for his needs.

He cites Dr. Shapiro, Department chair of Agriculture and Natural Resources, as his main source of support and information, helping him get the prerequisites and classes he needed for the program.

“When school started, I had everything that I needed and was right back on track,” Gonzales said.

Len Markowitz, adjunct professor for the landscape and horticulture classes, ran the ongoing rose garden project as part of his Plant Sciences 896 class and commented on Gonzales’ work ethic.

The Brahmas’ softball team lost both games of a doubleheader against Santa Barbara after Pierce third baseman Rose Alcala got struck by a line drive on March 11.

After the injury the Brahmas did not have enough players to play in the rest of the games.

Pierce is now 0-8, have only scored 11 runs combined during their season and have not completed a full game losing by either mercy rule or forfeit.

The Brahmas go on the road to play Cuesta looking for their first win of the season.

The games starts at 2:30 p.m.

The men’s volleyball team continue to struggle. In the last three games they have only won three sets.

The last time the volleyball team was on Feb. 28 against Santa Barbara in a game that was tightly contested.

The Brahmas are 1-5 at home and 3-3 on the road.

The men’s volleyball will need to pick up the intensity if they wish to beat LA TradeTech, who currently are on a nine game losing streak.

The game will be played at Pierce College and is schedued to begin at 6 p.m.

Pierce no match for Ventura Pirates baseball team snaps 10 game losing streak

most loses ever,” Adams said. “We knew eventually we might win one, so we played really well today.”

inning the Pirates led the Brahmas 5-1.

Learning more about fitness has put him on the track to his career goals, after learning about nutrition and the way it affects athletic and mental performance.

“He’s extremely knowledgeable. He’s got a tremendous desire to succeed,” Markowitz said.

For full story visit theroundupnews.com

The baseball season took a turn for the better for Ventura College on Thursday March 13 when the Pirates defeated Pierce College 7-1 to finally end its 10-game losing streak.

Heading into the game, Ventura had not won since Feb. 11 against Cerritos College.

After the game, Don Adams, Ventura’s head coach, said his team felt really good about the win.

“They tied the school record for

In the first inning of the game third basemen Alex Sawelson gave Pierce a one-run lead after his RBI single brought in right fielder Joe Moran, who doubled earlier in the inning, but it was short lived as Ventura tied the score after scoring a run during the second inning.

During the second inning an error was made by short stop Austin Peters as he attempted to tag out Pirates center fielder Bradley Fullerton which gave the Pirates a one-run lead, heading into the third

A double hit into the far left field by the Pirates third basemen Harrison Crawford gave Ventura a 6-1 lead during the top of the fifth inning. Pierce switched pitcher during the top of the fifth inning bringing in Brandon Ortega to the mound.

In the top of the sixth inning Ventura continued to add to their lead when first basemen Tim Ginther hit a single that scored left fielder Dylan Colman. After the sixth inning the score was 7-1 neither team would score after.

High hopes for men’s volleyball team

Scooby’s Corner

Ethan Hanson

Photo: Diego Barajas

Assistant Editor

The recent status of the Brahmas men’s volleyball team has been leaving many of the Pierce faithful wondering who are these guys? What happened to this team and where has the passion gone?

Judging by the looks of things, this team has gone nowhere. The Brahmas’ have lost three in a row, six of the last seven, and if things don’t change the team will likely not even make the playoffs. It is now March 19. You have to go all the way

to Feb. 28 against Santa Barbara to find a win on the schedule.

Not only are the Brahmas losing, but their home record is an embarrassing 1-4. What part of that shouldn’t wake this team up? It is like the part in the song “Take Me out to the Ballgame “ that goes, “If they don’t win it’s a shame” referring to the home team.

A year ago in his first season as head coach, Lance Walker led a Pierce College volleyball team that got off to a slow start, but ultimately rallied in the second half of the season to make the playoffs and compete in the Final Four of the state volleyball tournament. The team of last year though brought both the drive and the hunger to win those games.

Walker has proven that he has

the class and the pedigree to coach a competitive team. The question now is will his team step up and prove it.

With seven games left in the season, the Brahmas have to start playing with the hunger and desire to win. Team members must play for each other, pass well, play with speed, not commit errors, and, most of all, bring the unwavering intensity of last year’s team.

The difference between this year and last year? Not much really. The talent is there and the athletic ability and power to compete is up to par with the other teams in the conference.

But right now the Brahmas volleyball team, pure and simple, doesn’t have heart. Perhaps the team can find it before it is too late.

The Twitter and Instagram can be followed by looking up #beyoucampaign.

Giuliana Orlandoni / Roundup ANTI-BULLYING: Bobby Baker hopes to put an end to bullying.

Anaiya Ford Roundup Reporter

LEADERSHIP

Nico Heredia / Roundup FARMER: Akeem Gonzales took his talents to the horticulture department.

Pierce no match for Long Beach

Brahmas lose in straight sets, 3-0

Jason Wolfe Roundup Reporter

Asluggish start by the Pierce College men’s volleyball team ultimately dug them into a hole too deep to climb out of on Friday March 14, in a 3-0 loss to Long Beach City College.

The Brahmas were dominated throughout most of the match, losing the first set 25-15, 25-19 and 27-25. Pierce head coach Lance Walker identified the slow start as a factor in the team’s loss.

“We’re still learning how to play together as a team, but as the game went on, we started to find our flow,” Walker said.

The second set was closely contested, with two Brahma freshmen making great plays to keep the score close. Outside hitter Daniel Jacobs made a great diving dig that led to a Pierce kill that tied the game at 5-5.

Later in the set, middle blocker Bryan Sotelo converted a clever kill to bring Pierce within 2 points when he softly attacked, arching the ball over two blockers who were expecting a spike. After that point made it 11-13, Long Beach took over and won the set 25-19.

Although they lost the second set,

the Brahmas carried the momentum they built into the third, which was an electric back and forth affair that had fans from both sides cheering and yelling throughout the set.

The two teams traded points until the score was 8-9 Long Beach, when an intense volley ended on a controversial net violation call on Pierce. After a heated discussion with officials and players, the referee overturned the call to a replay, which led to Pierce tying the game.

The intensity picked up after that tightly contested point, and carried on through the end of the set with Pierce fans roaring after every play.

Long Beach head coach Jonathan Charette was prepared for the tough environment.

“It’s easy to bring in good, positive energy as a team because Ken Stanley Court is an electrifying gym to play in,” Charette said.

With the score tied at 17, freshman middle blocker Manny Sanchez converted one of Pierce’s four aces when his serve forcefully hit the net and gently rolled off to the other side, giving Pierce their first lead of the match.

From there, the teams traded points until the score was tied at 25. Long Beach took the next two points to win the third set 27-25.

The star of the match for Long Beach was outside hitter Relyea

Brahmas torpedo Pirates 12-5

Baseball team wins in blowout

for the Brahmas, giving up five hits and one run. Michael Knopf would earn the save after pitching two innings and striking out three after coming in for Aditya.

Speller, who was constantly giving the Brahmas fits with his powerful serves and spikes. He finished the night with 13 kills and three block assists.

Brahma Brent Johnson

acknowledged Speller’s presence as troublesome for the team.

“They had a lot of jump serves that were very difficult to control,” Johnson said.

Although the game ended in

a 3-0 defeat, head coach Walker feels the game was decided by a few crucial points throughout the match.

“When two great teams play each other, the margin of error is

very slim. One play here, one play there. It makes all the difference,” Walker said.

The team’s next game is Wednesday, March 19th at LA TradeTech, at 6:00 P.M.

Football team loses standout cornerback

Ethan Hanson Assistant Editor

The Pierce College baseball team came back with a vengeance, beating Ventura College 12-1 on Saturday, March 15 after losing earlier in the week against the Pirates.

Ventura destroyed the Brahmas earlier in the week, winning 7-1. Unlike their previous game, Pierce was prepared for the Pirates as they finished the game with 19 hits, 12 runs and no errors.

The Pirates struggled throughout the game and only scored one run on five hits and committed three errors.

“The whole team contributed offensively,” said Pierce head coach John Bushart. “The starting pitcher Harsa Aditya threw seven innings and only gave up one run.”

Aditya was awarded the win having pitched seven solid innings

Ventura player, Brian Magana scored the only run of the game with the aid of David Newland’s double.

Coaches for the Pirates substituted 10 pitchers during the course of the game while Pierce used only two.

Logen Letofsky only pitched four innings, striking out one, walking one, giving up eight hits for four earned runs in the devastating loss.

On the other hand, Sawelson went 2-5 with a double and four RBI’s, while Conley went 3-4 with three hits and one RBI. Christian finished the game with one hit, an RBI and a walk.

“Alex Sawelson had a good day at the plate,” Bushart said. “Quinn Conley had three hits along with Joe Christian, who had a good day as well.”

Former Pierce College Brahmas star cornerback Tyree Stone-Davis won’t be joining his twin brother Tyrin at Illinois University, instead he signed his letter of intent to play at Western Michigan University.

Stone-Davis, a Philadelphia native who originally committed to playing with the Fighting Illini alongside his brother, instead chose a different path. He was expected to be a tandem with his brother who plays on the opposite side of the ball at wide receiver. But after a visit with Illinois, Tyree’s mindset changed and he wanted something different.

“When I signed with Illinois, to be honest I never really felt happy,” Tyree said. “It was a pain inside of my chest that no one really knew. I felt as though I was making a bad decision, I just wanted to stick with my brother. But now I feel so comfortable with the transition with

Western Michigan. I feel like its a family. It’s a home. I feel wanted. I feel like they need me more than want me. Illinois wanted me, but they didn’t need me. Western Michigan needs me. They told me everything I wanted to hear and it brought tears to my eyes.”

For Tyree, the decision ultimately came down to a meeting he had with Broncos head coach P.J. Fleck. The meeting according to Tyree was what gave him the desire want to go and play for Western Michigan.

“We went to the coach’s basement and he said he was going to make me a first round pick,” Tyree said. “ He said I’m going to play man corner all game and that I’m blessed. Everything I felt in my heart, he said it. For him to say that as a grown man, was overwhelming.”

For Tyrin who supported his brother by wearing the same Western Michigan t-shirt, the decision was hard on him personally knowing that for the first time ever in his life, his twin would be in another state

and playing for another team.

“It’s hard that he’s not going to be there, but at the same time it’s a business decision,” Tyrin said. “He said he didn’t feel right at Illinois. I’m not going to lie: I know that in my heart that being at Illinois wasn’t the right school for him, but me being selfish as I am, me being his twin brother, I need him at all times. I wanted him to be with me. But I had to put my selfishness and my pride aside and let him do what he needs to do. He went there on his visit. He felt comfortable, he felt wanted as opposed to going to Illinois and being a package deal.

I knew he was going to start, no matter where he went but he felt comfortable at Western Michigan and I’m proud of him.”

Nelger Carrera / Roundup

JUBILATION: Tyree Stone-Davis smiles as he signs his letter of intent to play at Western Michigan University.

For Tyree Stone-Davis that transition will be hard going from playing against junior college competition to playing against athletes who are a lot faster and stronger according to Brahmas assistant coach Damon Julian. For full story visit theroundupnews.com

Jessica Boyer Roundup Reporter

James Channell / Roundup

TEAM HUDDLE: Pierce head coach Lance Walker (middle) tries to rally his team against Long Beach on Friday March 12.