Volume 123 Fall 2015 Roundup Issue 2

Women’s volleyball match between the Brahmas and the Renegades ends in a win for Pierce College in the South Gym in Woodland Hills,

Volleyball remains undefeated

Top-ranked Lady Brahmas continue 17-game winning streak

at Pierce College, increasing its undefeated season to 17 wins.

In the three-round tournament, the Brahmas beat Rio Hondo, Bakersfield and San Diego Mesa College. Pierce was nearly perfect, only losing one set out of 10 to Bakersfield in the second round.

Invitational this weekend.

“We’re pretty confident right now,” Mardini said. “We’re playing some good volleyball.”

during the first set as Rio Hondo showed signs of life by cutting the Brahma’s lead to two with the score 20-18.

Latina, Latino and LGBTQ

Chair of the History/ Philosophy/Sociology Department, James McKeever will hold an event for the LGBTQ Latina and Latino communities in the Great Hall on Oct. 8 from 2:30 - 4 p.m.

The event will offer stories about the struggles and challenges that members of the Latino and Latina LGBTQ community have faced.

For more information contact James McKeever at mckeevaj@piercecollege. edu.

Student Trustee results

Polls were open Sept. 22 and 23 for a special election to determine the next LACCD student trustee.

The results of the reelection will be announced on Sunday, Oct. 4.

The position for student trustee is between candidates Ryan Navarette and Milo Anderson

Grab a slice, get advice

For the first time in two years, the Pierce College women’s volleyball is back at number one. The team took first place in the sixth annual Brahma Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 26

The Brahmas came out victorious after a three set sweep (25-21, 2522, 25-16) over Rio Hondo in round one. The undefeated Pierce Brahmas were favored to win the matchup over a 2-5 record Rio Hondo.

Going into the game, Head Coach Nabil Mardini felt like his team could be successful during the

The Brahmas did not look like an undefeated team to start off the first set. A few errors due to a lack of communication got Rio Hondo to play with a lot of energy as the score was tied 5-5.

Things started to turn around as Pierce started to bounce back with a 5-0 run behind number seven outside hitter Kristen White’s two aces.

The lack of communication from the Brahmas started to show again

The Pierce Brahmas would go on to win the first set with a score of 25-1.

The Brahmas started off the second set with a 6-0 run, but later on errors and a lack of communication started showing again with Rio Hondo taking advantage.

The Pierce Brahmas won the second set with the score 25-22 behind middle blocker Leanna Schott’s three aces in a row.

Communications and less errors

pushed the Brahmas to a three set sweep over Rio Hondo with the final score 25-16.

Rio Hondo’s Head Coach Teddi Esko was happy with the way her team played.

“I think we played good volleyball against a fantastic number 1 ranked Pierce,” Esko said. “I think we put a lot of pressure on Pierce tonight. Game one and two we were playing good volleyball against them, and I think Pierce had to work really hard at beating us in those two games.”

[See VOLLEYBALL, pg. 7]

Pierce president looks for new job

for a time and then to move on to another campus.”

Several high-ranking Pierce College staff members were caught off guard after an announcement last week that President Kathleen Burke is one of five finalists for the presidency at El Camino Community College in Torrance, Calif.

ECC’s current President Tom Fallo’s is retiring in February.

Dean of School of Humanities and Social Science, Barbara Anderson said top level administators frequently change schools.

“To be honest, I was completely unaware of her applying for the El Camino presidency,” Anderson said.

“It isn’t uncommon for top-level administrators to serve a campus

Anderson added that though Burke’s relatively long time in the position has served the college well, the appointment of a new campus president might bring advantages.

“The stability of a president who stays for a while, like President Burke has done, has been very beneficial,” Anderson said. “On the other hand, it can also benefit a campus to have fresh eyes to view campus issues and exposure to other excellent leaders in education. I greatly appreciate the good work that President Burke has done, but she is entitled to pursue professional opportunities.”

James McKeever, chair of the History/Philosophy/Sociology Department thinks Burke has done a really good job as far as changing the climate of things at Pierce.

of Pierce

“She’s a good leader. I agree with a lot of the policies. When I disagree with her I feel like I can talk to her about that and so on,” McKeever said. “I think she’s a good president. I think if we lose her, hopefully we get a good president in return. But El Camino would get a great president if that was the case. I think she does a great job.”

Some members of the administration weren’t notified about Burke applying for the position, including Dean of Academic Affairs Development Mary Anne GavarraOh, and Donna-Mae Villanueva, dean of Mathematics, Science, Business and Nursing.

The finalists will meet at various times on Monday, Oct. 5 and Tuesday, Oct. 6 at El Camino College for a public forum.

The counseling center will hold a “Meet the Counselors” on Oct. 13 in the Great Hall.

From 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. students can meet with a counselor. There will be free pizza and raffle prizes available.

Take action

KPCRadio.com’s “Farsi Show” is holding a semester-long fundraiser to raise money for clothes and supplies to aid children in several refugee camps around the world.

For more information, contact HeniAbassi@gmail. com

Snapchat

Are you on Snapchat? Follow the Roundup for behind the scenes stories, live look-in’s for sports and story previews.

ARYANNA DUNN Reporter @DunnAryanna

SAL FARIAZ Assistant Sports Editor @S_Fariaz and FRANK ALMAREZ Reporter @FrankAlmarez

BEAT

“Food trucks are unhealthy, they give inhealthy food.”

-Victor Ramirez, Criminal Justice major

“Not very varied, it’s just hamburgers and hotdogs.”

-Marissa Andrade

Letter to the Editor

submitted by Denise Robb

I wanted to correct a couple of inaccuracies by the Roundup in the article “Free Money” dated Wednesday September 23, 2015. While I’m very glad to have the publicity for our scholarships, I wanted to correct some misstatements. We do have 13 scholarships

“It’s good because they have various types of food, I’ve eaten at the falafel truck and the hotsauce truck.”

-Ashley Bahena Psychology major

“They’reactuallyprettygood, the falafel truck is pretty good.”

-Victor Santiago, Nutrition Science major

D

-Marissa Nunez, Forensic Psychology major

“I don’t really eat here, there are better options outside of campus.”

-Jay De Vera

Undecided major

Quotes gathered by Zac Groff

–CORRECTIONS–

Volume 123, Issue 1

Page 1: The Reporter Marielle Stober, was referred to as “Marielle Strober”

Volume 123, Issue 1

Page 3: Milo Anderson was referred to as “Ryan Anderson”

Volume 123, Issue 1

Page 4: Photo Editor Skylar Lester was referred to as “Skylar Leser”

available this Fall, but the article stated we always have 13 scholarships in the spring. We have far more than 13 scholarships in the spring.

We actually gave away dozens of scholarships with all different requirements and majors. What was unique, as the article noted was that we usually only give them in spring but this time we are giving them away in the Fall as well. Additionally, it is completely inaccurate to say the “majority

of money has gone unused in the past.” It’s true that a tremendous amount of scholarship money goes unused, but not at Pierce. I was speaking about scholarships in the United States.

Please note I was not talking about our scholarships. I just meant that too many students don’t apply and they should. It would make our scholarships more competitive. the money at the Pierce Foundation always gets

-Editorial-

distributed. Originally, I just contacted the Roundup and asked if you could promote the scholarships in some way. I do want more of our students to apply to make them more competitive. I want our students and students throughout the United States to take advantage of the many scholarships in the country that don’t get enough applicants. So let’s get busy applying for scholarships. You will be glad you did!

It is least dangerous for the rider and the bystanders as well. With that being said, there will be less accidents and less liability here at Pierce. The hoverboard is not more than a foot long. They are no wider than the person’s leg width apart.

You can simply place them under your desk or by the door. There’s no hassle or damage done by this equipment. Why not let students use them to help make their campus experience smooth, safe and fun.

I would like to also bring up the point of emergencies on campus. If there was an emergency and EMT’s needed to go through the campus, pretty much all other gear except the hoverboard, could almost certainly get in the way. The hoverboard would not slow or stop any help on the way. I think not only should they be let

with high heat.

During the month of September the Pierce College Weather Station recorded an average high temperature of 93 F. Compounded by the current drought, those temperatures have taken a heavy toll on Pierce – a fact which is apparent in the faces of exhausted students who line the floors of shaded hallways and breezeways on campus.

Since Pierce is currently undergoing construction, this would be the optimal time to make the necessary changes to campus. The addition of benches, shade trees and improved awnings could be done now at minimal inconvenience, could be finished before next summer and would alleviate some of the health concerns associatedAccording to the Los Angeles Community College District’s 2013 Heat Illness Prevention Plan, whenever the temperature exceeds 85 F access to thoroughly shaded areas is necessary and must provide relief from the sun’s rays. However, many awnings don’t extend all the way to the edges of sidewalks, and a lack of benches in shaded areas forces students to sit on the ground or lean against buildings and classrooms.

This current arrangement

can lead to the disruption of classes, congested walkways and obvious discomfort for students trying to escape the sun. By adding new benches beneath shade trees, or simply moving the vacant and exposed benches that already line the Mall and courtyards, Pierce students would be able to safely and comfortably congregate away from classes.

The cactus and cow skullfilled Botanical Garden is hotter than many other places on campus, and students have little luck finding shade anywhere other than directly in front of classrooms. There are commemorative benches placed throughout the garden that are often in direct sunlight and as a result are left unused. And while the Botanical Garden features three missionstyle shade structures, their slatted design doesn’t actually provide much coverage.

It seems to come down

to flaws in the design of the campus. If there were more shade trees planted specifically around benches it would lower the temperature, in addition to adding aesthetic beauty. If the expenses involved with the purchase and planting of shade trees prove to be unfeasible, adding benches to existing shaded areas remains an option and might be a more economical solution to the problem.

Before Pierce finishes construction and misses a valuable opportunity to prepare for next summer’s inevitable heat waves, campus officials should act on this issue now. The simple truth is that a few thousand dollars could save Pierce College tens of thousands, or more, if a student were to suffer the preventable effects of severe heat exhaustion, heat stroke or dehydration while on campus property.

hinder campus life?

Pro SAL FARIAZ sfariaz.roundupnews@gmail.com @S_Fariaz Con

on campus, but it’s also a smart choice.

This means less crowding in the walkways. If Pierce is going to consent to bikes, electric scooters and things of that nature on site, I think there should be hoverboards allowed. It doesn’t really need a second thought to it. It is risk-free, yet beneficial for our students to get from point A to point B. That’s what college is all about nonetheless. Getting from point A to point B right? So why not have the same mentality when it comes to getting to our classes? Let the student chose how he or she gets from here to there.

The hoverboard is an aiding accessory to students. It is also eco-friendly for the most part. It is a smaller piece of equipment with a small rechargeable battery. The board doesn’t involve any hands for maneuvering itself. This makes it easier on students when they are trying to hold all their books and bags in their hand while getting to class faster. It’s a hands free means of transportation. I think the Hover board should freely be allowed at Pierce. Partly because there is no written law against riding them around campus. Using them is not a violation of any regulation, code, or conduct. The lack of there being a law about it, also suggests there has been no issue or reason to ban them. The majority isn’t complaining about the use of them, so why not let it be used?

From the day that Wiz Khalifa was tackled in the Los Angeles International Airport for riding one, these hover-less boards have rapidly flooded social media sites and have began to make its way from your friend’s snapchat story to college campuses.

They have been called everything from hoverboards to smart-scooters to hands-free segways. Hoverboards of any kind should not be allowed at Pierce College.

Hoverboards have only been available to the public for a short amount of time, so it is understandable why administration would not have created a rule for them in the general catalog.

“Roller-skates, in-line skates and skateboards are not permitted at any time on the campus,” as stated in the 2014-16 Pierce General Catalog.

Bicycles are allowed on campus but you must walk your bicycle on pedestrian sidewalks and mall walk-ways. If you are riding your bicycle on a street on campus, you are held to the same traffic rules as a public highway.

Hoverboards are not streetlegal. In that case, they should be forced to abide by the same rules as skateboards and roller skates. There are plenty of brands producing this product which causes the specifications to differ from machine to machine, so I will use the IO HAWK as an index.

The IO HAWK’s website says it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to become fully proficient on the machine, but people still make mistakes. You can search “hoverboard fails” on youtube to see what I mean.

The machine goes a little over 6 mph and weighs 22 pounds. This could be a danger to other students around the rider if it were to accidentally run over someone’s foot or run into someone.

The hoverboard is not a completely stable machine and you can also injure yourself while riding one. By shifting too much weight forward or backward you can cause the board to slip from under you resulting in potential harm to your body. This is a liability that Pierce College doesn’t need.

It was designed as an alternative to walking but that does not mean it should be allowed on campus. You shouldn’t have to worry about hoverboards running into you when you are walking to class cramming for your midterm. Let’s leave the boards at home and maybe try some power walking.

given the opportunity to revise unacceptable letters. The Pierce College Roundup will not publish, as letters, literary endeavors, publicity releases, poetry or other such materials as the Editorial Board deems not to be a letter.

published as a learning experience under the college journalism instructional program. The editorial and advertising materials published ROUNDUP: September 30, 2015 Photographers: Carly Albert Ezzat Bekheet Raul De Los Santos Josh Duarte Dylan Khol Doris Lopez Christopher Mulrooney Ahmadreza Rastegarruzi Gustavo Sanchez Gerryleo Sarimiento Abdoudmajid Yazdekhasti Vanessa Reynafarje Efrem Fields

espite the fact that fall is here, Pierce College is still experiencing high temperatures and intense sun exposure on campus. In hostile summer conditions, lugging heavy backpacks across a campus unshielded from the brutal sun poses a legitimate threat to the health and safety of students. By using the means at its disposal, Pierce can provide students with shaded oases at the hottest campus in the City of L.A.

“Idon’teathere,Itjustdoesn’t look appetizing.”

Undecided major

ASO to hold fall Club Rush

Two-day event is meant to boost ASO involvement

MITCH NODELMAN Reporter @MitchNodelman

The Associated Students Organization is finishing its preparations for this semester’s two-day Club Rush event, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

Booths with games, music and activities will be set up along the Mall for ASO members and clubs to promote student involvement and recruit for the organization.

“I hope we get more students to join,” said Charles Zabala, a senator with the ASO. “We are trying our best to promote.”

ASO President David Do said he has scheduled activities and entertainment for those who participate in Club Rush, and hopes the attractions will bring in new members for clubs and the ASO.

“We are having carnival games, and KPCRadio will be playing inside the Great Hall during that time,” Do said. “We expect a big turnout.”

The carnival games will be located along the Mall, where students can win prizes in games like a ring toss, according to Do. The games are meant to boost the turnout of the bi-annual Club Rush.

Zabala said that the ASO is trying to get a band to perform in order to help promote the ASO during club rush. It is not yet know if a band is expected to perform though, but Pierce College’s radio station KPCRadio.com will be participating.

Moodle to be replaced

Switch from Moodle to Canvas announced Monday

VICTOR RODRIGUEZ Opinions Editor @vrodriguez2100

The Academic Senate has officially voted to adopt the online course enhancer Canvas to replace Pierce College’s current platform Moodle.

The motion passed with 36 votes in favor and one abstention. The college will pay no fees for three years due to subsidization from the Online Education Initiative.

Senators discussed the possibility of a statewide online course exchange, wherein a student from a college outside California would be able to take an online course and the money earned would go to Pierce College.

“The statewide committee that was selected specifically for this purpose chose Canvas, and that says a lot,” said Michael Cooperman, member of the Distance Education committee.

Members of the senate discussed the ease of use and how easy the transition between the two can be.

“I use both Moodle and Canvas, I think Canvas is a little more elegant and well-designed,” said

David Schamus, chair of the Computer Science and Information Technologies department.

Joe Perret, CSIT instructor, said Pierce College would significantly benefit from the use of a statewide system rather than a platform such as Moodle.

“It’s a statewide system, you’re going to get statewide support [including] a 24/7 help-desk, provided by the state,” Perret said.

Anna Bruzzese, president of the Academic Senate said she has faith in her colleagues who are more familiar with the platform.

“I don’t teach online, so I can’t really speak from experience, I’ll defer to the judgment of my colleagues who are the experts,” Bruzzese said. “And since they seem onboard and think it’s going to be a good move, then I’m in support of it personally.”

Subsequently, the senate voted in favor of recertification requirements for hybrid courses and courses exclusively taught online in order to familiarize instructors with the new platform.

Instructors of online, hybrid and Distance Education courses will need to complete 40 hours of workshop training with Canvas.

Instructors who teach traditional courses that only supplement their class with Moodle will not be required to undergo the Canvas certification training. The senate also voted unanimously to reinstate an orientation for new faculty members which had been cancelled at the order of President Kathleen Burke.

President Kathy Oborn was reappointed to the District Academic Senate Equivalency Committee. Oborn served in that role last semester when she was Academic Senate president, and at the senate’s approval will continue this semester as the DASEC representative for Pierce. Oborn outlined the position in a letter read to the senate by Belden.

Incident Report

9/23—Lost Wallet

A student filed a report with the Sheriff’s department on Thursday, Sept. 24, after losing their wallet the previous day. The wallet was lost in the bookstore on Wednesday, Sept. 23, at about noon. The incident has not been filed as a theft.

9/21—Traffic Incident

At about 2 p.m. Monday, two vehicles crashed in Parking Lot 1. It is unknown if anybody was injured in the collision. Pierce College Sheriff’s Station

News briefs

“When I got the notice from the president of the college that the new faculty orientation on campus had been cancelled I was quite in shock,” said Angela Belden, instructor of Psychology.

In the past, orientations were used to ease new faculty members into Pierce College.

“This is the Professional Development committee’s solution to that, so we can take back some control and allow some of the new faculty to be branded on campus by our own faculty,” Belden said.

Former Academic Senate

“I have experience with equivalent standards through my participation on statewide committees, and several years ago I was selected to lead the equivalency task force for criminal justice, and offered the most recent report for the state chancellor’s office,” Oborn’s statement read.

According to ASO President David Do, the votes from the student trustee special election in September will be counted on Oct. 9 at 11 a.m. at the district’s downtown headquarters.

The next Academic Senate will take place Oct. 12 at 2:15 p.m. in the Great Hall.

District Food Survey

All Pierce students have received a Food Services Survey from the district in their LACCD email accounts.

Due by Sunday, Oct. 11, the optional questionnaire is intended to inform the district of food quality and availability at campuses districtwide.

The ASO festivities are intended to attract new members to the organization. Do said that the ASO will take any new members “under their wing” and “get them up to speed” on the organization’s goals and methods.

“I hope to get more members to join the ASO, spread awareness and have the students enjoy themselves,” Do said.

The ASO will have their booth in the Mall from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. According to Zabala, the event used to end at 2 p.m. and this semester marks a three-hour increase in its hours.

ASO Treasurer Roxanne Keramati said the organization will be handing out flyers, senator applications, and any other additional information students may need to become involved.

According to Zabala, membership in the ASO can help students receive transfer recommendations and student employment opportunities at Pierce.

To become a member of the ASO, students must fill out the membership application, maintain a 2.0 GPA, be enrolled in at least five units, pay the $7 ASO dues fee, attend mandatory weekly meetings, and receive approval from a department chair. Information about open departments will be listed during club rush, according to ASO clerk Brenda Lopez.

The first club council meeting will be on Oct. 15 from 1 to 2:30 p.m., though the meeting location is yet to be announced.

Food surveyed District seeks student, faculty input on campus food options

ZAC

The Los Angeles Community College District sent a districtwide survey via email on Wednesday, Sept. 23 to find out how students and faculty feel about the available food choices on campus.

The survey attempts to identify issues with schools’ food choices and find out what can be done to improve those options.

Associate Vice Chancellor Maury Pearl said “the survey is helping to identify the choices available and receive feedback from students and faculty regarding those preferences as well as planning options.”

The information received will then be distributed to the colleges and as Pearl said “it is up to the colleges to see how the information fits with their food choices.”

Pierce student Rebekah Danks said the price of food on campus is her biggest concern.

“There should be cheaper food prices,” Danks said. “You have to spend around an average of $7 if you want to have a decent meal from a food truck.”

According to Pearl, an email should have been distributed around the district to the information officer for each campus. Doreen Clay, a parttime student and Public Relations Manager for Pierce College, said that though she is the college’s

information office she had only received the student version.

Clay said the food services available on campus are insufficient.

“Students need more choices,” Clay said. “The options are too limited.”

Alysha Dyer, a student at Pierce College, also said the existing cafeteria should be utilized.

“We do need a cafeteria,” Dyer said. “Having more hot food options would be cool.”

The decision to distribute the survey was made by a districtwide committee, and Pearl was brought in as an advisor to the committee.

“There will be focus groups in addition to the survey,” Pearl said. “Those will be campus-based.”

Pearl did not know when the district will implement changes based on information gathered in the survey.

“I am unsure,” Pearl said. “We have received a framework for receiving the information.”

Alan Castro / Roundup

Computer Science and Information Technology chair David Schamus aids assistant professor of Art and Architecture Michael Cooperman as he delivers a report to the Academic Senate on behalf of the Distance Education committee on Monday, Sept. 28, at Pierce College.

“I think Canvas is a little more elegant, and well-designed.”

-David Schamus

Chair, Computer Science and Information Technology Department

“I hope to get more members to join the ASO, spread awareness and have students enjoy themselves.”

-David Do President, ASO

GROFF Reporter @zgroffnews

“...Students need more choices...”

-Doreen Clay Public Relations Manager and Pierce College student

Treasure Hunting

The sweltering heat on Sunday didn’t stop shoppers from swarming to Pierce College for the Topanga Vintage Market, an open-air bazaar boasting more than 170 vendors. Tents and tables overflowed with an eclectic mix of vintage apparel, antiques and collectibles as shoppers rummaged through boxes looking for one-of-a-kind finds.

The shoppers scanning the aisles were just as varied and unique as the items for which they searched. Sellers and buyers dressed for the occasion, flaunting large hats, costume jewelry and high fashion ensembles. As the heat beat down, the snow cone truck became a popular destination for children and adults looking to cool off. The market, which is hosted in Victory Parking Lot 7, helps to raise money for the school. The next fair will take place on Oct. 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Copy and photos by: Skylar Lester

Above Right: Dolls and frames for sale fill a box at the The Topanga Vintage Market, which took place on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015, in Victory Parking Lot 7 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. The event has been running for more than three years.

Right: Shopper Victoria Kreeft displays her $2 purchase of a baby doll head.

Justin Cohen and his girlfriend Blair Dector watch as Sonia Trevizo packages their purchase of two Churchill England willow plates at the Topanga Vintage Market.

Above: Patrons shop for assorted vintage clothing and collectables at the Topanga Vintage Market, which takes place on the fourth Sunday of the month.

Social Media Roundup

The fact that Pierce has so many problems and needs its own hashtag is an issue within itself.

Calendar

Burke Open Forum Club Rush

SEPT. 30 - OCT. 1

The ASO will hold the fall Club Rush on the Mall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Club Rush promotes club causes and gives them the opportunity to boost membership.

OCT. 5 Pierce College President Kathleen Burke will be at El Camino College for an open forum on Oct. 5. Burke is one of five finalists for the position of president of El Camino.

OCT. 6

The Program for Accelerated College Education (eight week semesters) will hold an orientation in the Great Hall at 6 p.m. PACE classes are still open and start Oct. 27.

Being Latin@ and LGBTQ

OCT. 8

The Pierce College Blatigenous and the History/Philosophy/ Sociology Department are hosting an awareness event in the Great Hall on Oct. 8 between 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Hot deals at Topanga Vintage Market

Despite the hot temperatures, people continue to come for the vintage antiques, food trucks, and live music on every fourth Sunday of the month.

have everything you don’t need.”

“The line for the microwave tho #PierceProbs” -@Sami_1993

“First break from class, 7:15pm. Student store closes at 7pm.” -@jeshizaemon

“when your personal hotspot is more reliable than your school’s wifi ”

SAMANTHA BRAVO Reporter @sammybravo93

Hot temperatures didn’t stop the Topanga Vintage Market from setting up on the Pierce College Campus. The vintage market returned on Sept. 27 with their selection of antiques collectables, food trucks and live music. More than 170 vendors, the Vintage Market is on the fourth Sunday of every month at Pierce on Victory Boulevard and Mason Avenue. It runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., entry is $3, children 12 and younger enter for free. Pierce College students and staff get in for $2.

Different vendors bring unique and original antiques to the table. The people and the environment is what makes the event come together. Pets are not allowed but service dogs are welcome.

This week’s live entertainment was Katie Ferrara, a singer/songwriter from Los Angeles, California. Her music is smooth and calming and has the vintage vendors and shoppers in a great mood.

Patrice Curedale is one of the co-founders for the Topanga vintage market. She has helped coordinate the market as well as helped with many charity events. A portion of the funds that are raised at the vintage market go to Pierce College.

Vendors like Maxine Fox and Jennifer Goldstein, who have been selling for years say they have have a little bit of everything, and they see regulars come every month. “We sell to keep shopping,” Fox says. “We

Vendors have to pay to reserve their spot to sell, just like Linda Stewart who is known as “Linda the tie dye lady,” at the Topanga Vintage Market. “I have been selling for about three-and-a-half-years with the vintage market.” She stays because she loves the fact that some of the money goes to the college.

Photography has hovered around Nicolas “Nico” Heredia for most of his life. His father took photos when he was a child but the lure initially came from a different medium.

“I’ve always been really into movies. When I was growing up I remember sneaking around the corner and secretly watching Pulp Fiction,” Heredia said. “I would watch these so frequently that composition just started sticking out to me.”

As Managing Editor of the Roundup and a photojournalism major, Heredia, 25, lends his help to others while still drawing on his eye for composition.

“Today I’m helping design the front page as well as the campus lifestyle page and assisting everybody else with whatever they need,” Heredia said. “I make sure that everyone is getting everything

done. Everything that Megan, our editor-in-chief, can’t get to, that’s my job to get to.”

His eye for design is handy when putting together pages but working to manage the staff requires a different approach. For this Heredia draws on prior work experience.

“In any job I’ve had before I’ve always ended up in some kind of managerial position so I guess that’s just where my personality takes me,” Heredia said. “I want to do something in photography. If that means I become in charge of people somehow then so be it. I do enjoy teaching and helping.”

Serving as managing editor for the Bull, Pierce College’s in print and online magazine, Heredia got a taste of what to expect from the position. He quickly learned however, that a publication with a weekly deadline

The market had almost 2,500 shoppers who searched for original craft goods and quality of products. You can follow their Instagram account @topanga_vintage_market for schedules, contests, and more.

“Here at Topanga vintage market we have vintage and antiques, rather than a swap meet where you might also find new things or gently used things, were kind of known for more relaxed and fun flea markets.” Curedale said.

The Topanga Vintage Market is no ordinary swap meet, it brings unique antiques, art, fashion and the people who sell make it worth taking a Sunday trip to the market.w

Staff

is a different breed of animal.

“You anticipate as much as you can,” Heredia said. “I knew it was going to be really busy and that I’d spend a lot of time here, but you can’t really prepare for what it’s actually like. It takes more time than you think.”

Along with his role in the media arts department, Heredia struggles to balance other classes and work and as it is early in the semester he’s still working to perfect this juggling act.

”It’s difficult. I still haven’t completely gotten the rhythm down I don’t think. But it’s getting there,” Heredia said. “I spend anytime I can in the newsroom and on campus. Like right now my last class ended at 11 a.m. and it’s my only class today but I’ll be here until 10 tonight.”

From those first viewings of Pulp Fiction Heredia’s interest was piqued again during high school when he made a connection with a photography teacher.

“My dad always took pictures but when I got into high school I took a film photography class and I got really close with that photography teacher,” Heredia said. “He was an all-around artist but he was teaching photography at the time and he encouraged me to go into film.”

[For the full story visit theroundupnews.com]

NEXT WEEK: Photo Editor, Skylar Lester

People of Pierce

“I used to work as a CNA as a caregiver, and I get to experience firsthand what its like to take care of people who are in disabled situations. Its a different experience, and it’s also a humbling experience. you might say. To take forth into consideration, and do something in my future within my career path, and help others who are struggling in that situation. To be able to know that making people have better lives is something I feel a lot better about myself”

Gustavo Sanchez / Roundup

Nursing major Randolph Stephen Palma sits in the courtyard of the Library/Learning crossroads of Pierce College.

“We sell to keep shopping. We have everything you don’t need.”

Maxine Fox Vintage Market Vendor

Skylar Lester / Roundup

Shoppers Shawne West, Wilfredo Cailao, and Victoria Kreeft hunt for a deal at the Topanga Vintage Market, which took place on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015 in Parking Lot 7 at Pierce College.

Mohammad Djauhari / Roundup

By Richie Zamora

Pupil becomes teacher

The department is in very safe hands with him.’

MITCH NODELMAN Reporter @MitchNodelman

The Pierce College farm has been around since the gates of the school opened.

And for the last 38 years, Leland Shapiro has kept that tradition alive as chair of the Agricultural Department.

Shapiro retired earlier this month, but the tradition is being kept alive by one of his former students.

Lu Dao, a University of California, Davis graduate, will be teaching several animal science classes his mentor once taught.

“I have a lot of loyalty and love for Pierce,” Dao said. “I love teaching here. It’s amazing. It’s a dream come true.”

and is already known by some of the faculty in the department from when he was a student at Pierce. Pierce College is where it started for Dao as a preveterinary major and for his love of animals. He has been around the Pierce Farm since he was 8-yearsold.

Instructor of veterinary technology Dr. Rebecca Yates, who had Dao as a student, said that he is one of the easiest recommendations she has ever written.

“He is an incredible addition to the campus. I can’t speak more highly about an individual,” Yates said.

Dao’s motivation and influence for animal science comes from his former professor, Leland Shapiro. Dao said that he taught him everything he knows, and that he is a mentor as well as a friend. Shapiro said that he considers Dao “like an adopted son.”

Dao even met Shapiro when he was 8-years-old, and told his mother “He wanted to grow up and be like him,” according to Shapiro. Twenty-years later he became a student of Shapiro’s, and is now replacing his former instructor for the classes he once took.

“He encouraged me when I was down,” Dao said.

“Hopefully I can fill [Shapiro’s] shoes.”

Shapiro said that while Dao was attending UC Davis 385 miles away, he drove back to the valley to visit him when he was hospitalized, despite having class in seven hours.

“When I woke up his face was right there, and I said ‘What are you doing here? Aren’t you in medical school?’ and he said ‘I am but I just had to see if you were ok.’ That’s the kind of man he is,” Shapiro said.

The new full-time professor said that his goal is to keep the agricultural department tradition alive. Dao will not try to change much, but said he would like to try a more hands-on approach with his students and animals.

“We have a stellar reputation,” Dao said. “I’m hoping students will do amazing things with the animals.”

Dao who has been around Pierce his whole life

Shapiro said that his advice to Dao is to have patience and be compassionate with his students.

“He’s a very ethical person. Student’s already tell me they love him - they love his classes, they love his intellect, they love his care for the animals. The department is in very safe hands with him,” Shapiro said.

Dao will be teaching animal science 501, 505, 506, 531, and 591 and is also an advisor for the Pre-Vet Club at Pierce.

The science of music

Pierce teacher utilizes physics to explain quality of sound

can in this course, it’s still fundamentally focused on the aspects of physics.

Professor Dale Fields, the physics department chair, said, “If you are a physics student, you will recognize the rules of physics in this course.”

Equality through sociology

MARIEY STOBER Reporter @StoberMariey

Hushed whispers generate a static hum as Professor Shigueru Julio Tsuha, 34, prepares for class. Written on the whiteboard are the top five shows his students want him to binge-watch. As Tsuha begins taking roll the students voice their vote rather than the standard “here.”

“Dang, so far you guys want me to watch ‘House.’

I don’t want to watch ‘House.’” Tsuha laughed.

Tsuha is an instructor with the philosophy and sociology department. He was formerly a professor at the University of California, Riverside. Tsuha now teaches full-time at Pierce College.

Tsuha connects with his students by meeting them on their level. His primary source of inspiration are his roots that reach back to Peru.

“I was 11 years old when I came to Alhambra from Peru.” Tsuha said. “We were immigrants we were starting from nowhere.”

As students take out their pencils, notepads, and calculators, the professor prepares to start his lecture. But before the class begins, he picks up an important tool for science: his guitar.

Raymond Bergstrom uses his guitar in Physics 15, a class offered at Pierce College that teaches how principles of physics affect the production and quality of music.

Physics 15 combines Bergstrom’s two main interests, physics and music, into one course.

“I have a masters degree in physics. At the same time in college, I took a lot of music classes,” Bergstrom said. “I went to music school for a year at what was then called the Los Angeles Music Academy, now called the Los Angeles College of Music.”

Bergstrom stated that the class is unique in that it combines elements of both the music and science worlds together. According to Bergstrom, by the end of the course students should be able to understand every step of the process when creating music.

“As music is played by an instrument, the sound propagates through the air, it’s recorded on a microphone, encoded digitally in the computer, played back through an amplifier and a loudspeaker, and heard by ears of a listener,” Bergstrom said.

The curriculum covered in the course includes wave motion and simple harmonic motion. By taking this class students will learn about general properties of sound waves. “This class is more of a science class than a music class. I try and do as much music stuff as I can,” Bergstrom said. “We get into how different instruments work. We spend a lot of time talking about all different kinds of instruments, strings, wind instruments, keyboard, percussion, speech and singing.”

Although Physics 15 is mostly a lecture course, Bergstrom said that they do have in-class labs that include different instruments. Bergstrom’s in-class labs include string, wind and keyboard instruments, however, he does not have a lab for percussion. Bergstrom emphasized that he would like to eventually include a percussion lab.

Though Bergstrom incorporates as much music as he

The Pierce College website describes Physics as “the study and mathematical description of the universe and everything in it.” Nearly all physics courses offered combine lecture, lab and group work into a semester of exploring and understanding the way our world works.

“If you want to learn about engineering or recording this is the backbone of all of that,” Bergstrom said.

According to Bergstrom, the topics that are studied in the class are used by most, if not all, music engineers, record labels and music studios to produce the best quality music.

[For the full story visit theroundupnews.com]

Throughout his youth Tsuha lived with his family and close relatives. At times, the living space grew cramped as the group of 10 moved from a three bedroom apartment to a two bedroom apartment. Though privacy was a luxury, Tsuha recalls that he was “never miserable. Not by a longshot.”

“I had always dreamed of living together with my cousins.” Tsuha said. “It was something we always hoped to do when I lived in Peru. When we moved here [Alhambra, Ca] I got that chance.”

Arriving in the United States in March 1992, Tsuha’s first impression of his new home was one of violence. The outbreak of the 1992 Los Angeles Riots fueled an outcry for social change.

“My conception of the U.S. was that it was filled with criminals and gang members because that was the media at the time.” Tsuha said.

It was an experience he would never forget.

In October 1994 Tsuha joined protesters marching down the streets of Los Angeles in opposition against Proposition 187. The ballot initiative was designed to establish a screening system that would allow the state to deny illegal aliens access to public services such as education and health care. Although Tsuha himself was a legal citizen of the U.S. many people he knew were not.

“I was fortunate enough to come [to the United States] with papers but a lot of my friends didn’t.” Tsuvha said. “Luckily it didn’t pass because the court said it was unconstitutional.”

After completing high school Tsuha pursued a degree in anthropology at UC Riverside. The direction of his education was set until he took a course called Inequality in America. The connection was immediate and forced Tsuha to change his major.

“I did no research regarding what kind of a job you could get with a sociology major.” Tsuha smiled. “I had no plans for the future. I was only concerned with learning more about inequality.”

The one class was all it took to change Tsuha’s perspective. Since then he has never looked back.

During the years leading up to his residency at Pierce College Tsuha acted as the executive director of the Dolores Huerta Labor Institute. He has also organized peaceful demonstrations as part of the Fight for 15-an organization that aims to raise the living wages for minimum wage workers.

As an undergraduate at UC Riverside Tsuha met a fellow sociology major who would later become his colleague and good friend.

James McKeever is the chair of the history, philosophy, and sociology departments. Though he was a student at the University of Southern California, McKeever met Tsuha through a mutual friend in the Minority Fellowship Program or MFP.

In the 15 years that they have known each other, McKeever is keen to Tsuha’s unique teaching style and his ability to engage with his students. One such aspect is allowing the class to select the shows he watches.

“It lets students know that their input is valuable to you [the teacher].” McKeever said.

The ritual that Tsuha performs during roll call would seem trivial to students looking into the class. For Tsuha, the top five shows list has many purposes. Primarily, it breaks the ice and helps him “learn the pop culture of today’s students.”

This sense of awareness is one of Tsuha’s best traits.

“I’ve always known him to be a bright conscientious person.” McKeever said. “So I was really happy to hear that he was one of the people who applied [for the position].”

With this summer acting as his introduction to Pierce College, Tsuha’s first full schedule began with the fall 2015 semester.

GARETT CECIL Reporter @GarettsFeed

Joshua Duarte / Roundup

Lu Dao demonstrates to his class how to work with sheep at Pierce Collegeʼs sheep barn on Sept. 23.

Gustavo Sanchez / Roundup Shigueru Tsuha teaches Pierce College students about gender inequality in our society.

New sociology hire hopes to stir the minds of his students

“ He’s a very ethical person. Student’s already tell me they love him - they love his classes, they love his intellect, they love his care for the animals.”

-Leland Shapiro

Retired Chair of the Agricultural Department

Carly Albert / Roundup

instructor Raymond Bergstrom plays guitar between classes at Pierce College on Sept. 10.

Carly Albert / Roundup Raymond Bergstrom uses a long spring cord to help students better understand sound waves and their properties at Pierce College on Thursday, Sept. 10.

Pierce kills competition

Volleyball’s offense on full display as team takes first place in Pierce Brahma

KRISTINA VILLAMIL Reporter @krisvillamil and CHRISTOPHER ESCOBAR Assistant Sports Editor @cescobar46

[From VOLLEYBALL

Pierce Brahmas’ coaching staff was happy with the win, but admitted they did not play their best.

“It wasn’t our best volleyball,” said first season Assistant Coach Kristin Dolan. “I think that the girls persevered, pushed through and worked together to come up with a victory.”

Head Coach Mardini also shares the same judgement.

“It was an ugly win, a lot of errors,” said Mardini. “Tomorrow’s game I thinkwe’ll play better.

During a four set match in the second round, the first seeded Brahmas beat fourth seed Bakersfield College. The first two matches moved quickly as Pierce College dominated offensively on the court. They gained the lead early on in the first set with a score of 13-4 and within minutes brought the lead to 23-11.

With a strong finish to the first set, 25-12, Pierce held their offensive stance winning a rally that brought the score to 10-3. The team won the second set as smooth as the first with a score of 25-13.

SCHEDULE

Sept. 30 to Oct. 7

Water Polo

Wednesday, Sept. 30 at Santa Monica, 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 7 vs. LA Valley, 3:30 p.m.

Soccer

Friday, Oct. 2 vs Moorpark, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 6 at Chaffey, 4 p.m.

Football

Saturday, Oct. 3 vs. West LA, 6 p.m.

Volleyball

Wednesday, Sept. 30 vs. Santa Monica, 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 2 at Moorpark, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 7 at Santa Barbara, 6 p.m.

Invitational

Bakersfield stayed competitive and proved to be challenging during the third set however, when the Brahmas fell behind for the first time in the match at 5-6. As the score remained tight, with most of the third set being a tie, Head Coach Nabil Mardini became more vocal in directing the team. Despite player efforts, Pierce lost the third set 25-27.

This small set back did nothing to sway the lady Brahmas. They returned into the fourth set with fierce intention. Middle blocker Shanon Volpis says that Brahma Volleyball is different than most, “ We give a hundred percent every play every day. And I think that today that was our main focus.” Defense played its part in the fourth set of match with a couple of digs to keep the ball in play. Staring off close at 8-6, the Brahmas pulled ahead in the middle of the set to win three of four sets total with a final score of 25-10.

The win was definitely a team effort. According to Azeezat Anthonio who also plays middle blocker, the team often spends time together off the court, and that she said “is really important.”

“When we are close off the court then we want to play for each other on the court. You can throw anyone in and the chemistry is still strong,” Anthonio said.

With such short time between back-to-back games the competition doesn’t faze the volleyball team. Head coach Nabil Mardini

says that it is something the team is used to. “We train to be in situations like this, where we’ve got to be physically conditioned, and we’ve done it before.”

The Brahmas finished the tournament by defeating the Mesa College Olympians by a score of 3-0(25-10, 25-17, 25-22) at the South Gym on Saturday, Sept. 26.

The Brahmas started the game off with confidence as the Olympians were no match for their incredible offense and defense.

As the first set came in, the Brahmas had an outstanding performance with a result of seven kills, two aces, and two blocks. From there, the Brahmas started it’s momentum at a high level.

During the second set, the Olympians also made momentum of its own, but sophomore Libero Darrin Rice assisted the Brahmas by making great saves and taking hard hits.

“Some of the digs were not as pretty as I would like, but definitely I liked how I helped my team out,” Rice said.

With the Brahma’s excellent strategy, all they needed was one more set to win.

In the third set, the Olympians got its momentum back as they started off good with a 1-6 lead.

After watching the scoreboard, head coach Nabil Mardini called a timeout to think of another way to overcome their mistakes.

As they resumed the game, nothing made a difference as the Brah-

mas were making mistakes such as hitting the ball out of bounds or miscommunication with each other.

Mardini then called another timeout as the Brahmas were trailing 15-19. The Brahmas were almost in panic mode but the game started to turn around when sophomore setter Rachel Lods came in to serve.

Lods made five straight successful serves, including three aces to add to the board.

“It felt good bringing up my teammates confidence,” Lods said. “We were in that third set a little bit nervous and timid, so I feel like I really helped all of them regain their confidence and just go after it in the end.”

After the help from Lods, the Brahmas were able to respond by making extreme kills and blocking hits.

As the final score came out 2522, the Brahmas were able to keep its streak going and to remain undefeated.

Mardini is loving the performance of the team, even if they make some of mistakes but that will always be included in all games.

“The goal is to not keep the streak alive, the goal is to go all the way whether we drop a match here and there,” Mardini said. “What’s important is that we want to be good in December.”

The Brahmas will go against Santa Monica College at home on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m.

Pierce freshman scores big New Brahmas striker puts goals at the back of the net

@FelipeGamino13

It’s hard to imagine that the top scorer for the Pierce College soccer team cared little for the sport when she first tried it.

But today, freshman forward, Makayla Nichols defines herself as a passionate soccer player and now has become a team phenomenon.

The Verdugo Hills High School graduate debuted in her first game as a Brahma with four goals.

According to the California Community College Athletic Association, her overall ranking is 24th in goals and she is hoping to keep it stable or to be ranked higher.

Nichols started playing soccer when she was fi ve years old and her mom signed her up for the American Youth Soccer Organization.

-Alexis Brown Goalkeeper

At first Nichols didn’t have the vibe to play soccer.

“At first I didn’t like it, I would play but when I was taken out I told the coach that I didn’t want to go back in,” Nichols said. After her first time playing, Nichols gave soccer a rest for a year and decided to play it again and soccer started to become her favorite hobby.

Besides playing soccer she also likes playing softball, but soccer is the only sports she has passion for.

While playing for the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) she has been experiencing different positions before becoming a forward.

In the past, Nichols has also played the positions of goalkeeper, defensive midfielder and center back. Of those, Nichols has proved stronger in her roles at center and defense.

“These two positions were my strengths personally. When I became forward I was very hesitant

Brahma Week of the

Sean Smith - Quarterback

Football

Did you enter the Glendale game with a different mentality?

“No, we just went over the game plan early, knew what we were going to do and went out there and did it.”

What are some advantages and disadvantages of playing on the road?

at first,” Nichols said.

“The proudest moment for me was when I won the two city championships with my high school Verdugo Hills,” Nichols said.

One of her teammate, Angela Verduzco, the freshman midfielder, sees Nichols as an inspiration to the team.

“She is a cool person, and she is a team player. In her position as a forward she is not afraid to pass the ball if she needs to,” Verduzco said.

Another teammate who also sees Nichols as a great example to the team is Alexis Brown, the freshman goalkeeper.

“I like her, because she always has a great attitude, she doesn’t like to waste time, and she’s always ready to go score goals,” Brown said.

Nichols is keeping her vibe at a positive level and she is one day hoping to win a championship for not only herself but for her teammates.

“There are big disadvantages like the home team crowd, stadium, you’re not used to playing on their turf, and the long bus rides. We are lucky that going to Glendale last week wasn’t like going to Southwestern the week before because that was like a 3 hour bus.”

What will you do to improve your game going further into the season?

“My accuracy. I think I am making most of the right reads. I could get better in every aspect of that like my drop back. But mostly my accuracy and getting the ball to my recievers.”

How would you describe your experience playing with this particular team?

“I think it’s one of the best teams that I’ve been a part of in my entire life. We’re going out there and working our butts off, grinding together, and always doing our conditioning together. It’s just non stop working up there and getting our routes to perfection, my throws to perfection, our timing to perfection. It’s amazing.”

What is your favorite football team?

“Ohio State all the way.”

Photo by Edgar Amezcua Quotes gathered by Salvador Fariaz

FELIPE GAMINO Reporter

“She doesn’t like to waste time, and she’s always ready to go score goals . ”

, pg. 1]

Majid Yazdekhasti / Roundup

At the Sixth Annual Pierce College Brahma Invitational between Pierce and Rio Hondo, Whitley Doss (2) and Valentina Krivokapic (11) move to block the ball on Sept. 25 at Pierce College.

Brahmas beat Vaqueros on the road

Football’s all-around play leads to decisive victory for Pierce on the road.

MITCH NODELMAN Reporter @MitchNodelman

After a disappointing loss last week to Southwestern, the Brahmas rebounded in a big way on the road against the Glendale Vaqueros.

Pierce never trailed, keeping its foot on the gas to a convincing 2716 victory. Quarterback Sean Smith dazzled, completing 24-37 passes for 303 yards and two touchdowns.

Both touchdown passes were to receiver Xavier Ubosi, who had five catches for 90 yards, including a 53-yard touchdown haul to put the Brahmas up 20-9 toward the end of the third quarter.

Head coach Jason Sabolic offered high praise to the offense, crediting the team’s success to Pierce’s aerial attack.

“Sean [Smith] just keeps impressing us, he’s one of our captains for a reason,” Sabolic said. “Xavier [Ubosi] is just such a tremendous talent.”

The defense and special teams also played a huge role in the team’s win, as the team lead the Vaqueros in almost all statistical categories.

Defensively, Pierce dominated counting for two interceptions, five sacks, and two forced fumbles.

Special teams set the tone early, as the Brahmas forced a fumble during the Vaqueros first kickoff return, leading to an early 3-0 lead.

Next Vaqueros drive, Pierce special teams would come up again, blocking a 28-yard field goal attempt.

After the block, the Brahma offense fired on all cylinders behind the legs of running back Calvin Howard, who had two runs during the drive for over 20

yards and included 3-yard rushing touchdown.

The defense shut down Glendale for the remainder of the first half, 13-0.

Glendale finally put points on the scoreboard during the third quarter after Smith was sacked in his own end-zone for a safety.

“You just have to keep going and believe in your team,” Smith said. “You have to keep your guys going, you have to keep yourself positive always.”

Smith would respond by tossing a long 53-yard touchdown pass to Ubosi.

“Sean threw a perfect ball,” Ubosi said. “We practice it all the time, it’s just about focus.”

In the fourth quarter Ubosi caught another touchdown off of a beautiful 15-yard pass from Smith to put Pierce up 27-9.

Penalties plagued the Brahmas for the third game in a row as the team was flagged multiple times throughout the night.

The biggest penalties came during a Glendale drive in the middle of the fourth which led to a touchdown run by running Travis Custis.

“We just got to clean our act up and go out and play football,” Sabolic said. “Some of the times we get a little bit wrapped up in the celebration.”

Pierce would then hold on to keep the score 27-16 to end the game.

Glendale’s head coach John Rome said Pierce showed up, and that Glendale stopped themselves.

“The same mistakes we’ve been making we need to correct,” Rome said.

Pierce (2-1) will be play its next game at home on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. against West Los Angeles College (1-2).

@RoundupSports

Women’s Water Polo

-Written by Mohammad Djauhari

The Pierce College water polo team lost to Citrus College at home on Wednesday, Sept. 23.

The final score was 16-5 and the Citrus College Owls delivered Pierce’s fifth straight loss, giving them a record of 0-5.

Pierce’s offense struggled to score against a well-established Owl’s defense. Pierce was unable to convert many scoring opportunities as the Owls forced the Brahmas to use its full shot clock.

Pierce College’s next game is at Santa Monica College on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 3:30 pm.

Brahmas Undefeated

The Pierce College soccer team went on the road to Taft College to try to stay unbeaten on Friday Sept. 25.

The Brahmas went into the game with a 3-0-3 record and came out with another win with the final score of 1-0. Marissa Albano scored the only goal of the match in the 65’ minute giving the Brahmas the win.

Pierce (4-0-3) will try to stay unbeaten in the team’s next two games as the Brahmas go on the road to face Oxnard (4-0-3) on Tuesday Sept. 29 and will host Moorpark (2-1-3) on Oct. 2.

Gridiron inspires playerʼs passion

From being there for his mom to being there for his team, this football player

does it all day-in and day-out

Adversity for some athletes is dealing with an injury or making a bad play. But for sophomore running back Robert Fowlkes, adversity comes with all of that plus helping his mother who has cancer.

Fowlkes, 21, and his family first heard the news when he was 18 years old.

“My heart dropped and I wanted to just break down but I knew I couldn’t show my mom any signs of me being scared,” Fowlkes said. “I looked her in the eyes and said ‘We’re gonna be ok mom. God’s going to help us make it through this.’”

The cancer has spread immensely to a point where the doctors cannot do anything surgically to help his mom.

“My mom is getting to the point where she just wants to live her life,” Fowlkes said. “If that’s what she wants to do then I’m going to support her in that decision. It’s hard to just sit back and see someone go through so much pain, and there’s nothing really you can do for them except for being there emotionally and physically to show that you support them in that decision.”

The doctors are coming to a conclusion for his mom to not take any more treatment, and to let her live out her life if she chooses to do so.

“I feel like if when you live out life to the fullest without an expiration date so to speak, then that means you’re gonna enjoy all the little things,” Fowlkes said.

Pierce football head coach Jason Sabolic appreciates what Fowlke has done on the field despite being in a difficult situation.

“He persevered like nobody else,” said Sabolic. “I told him

you need to take time off and go take care of your mom, go ahead and do it, and he’s like, ‘No coach I’m going to be out there. I’m going to be in practice everyday. I’m going to go to the weights everyday,’ and I don’t know how he does it.”

Pierce starting quarterback Sean Smith, who is also a close friend of Fowlkes respects what he does on and off the field and enjoys his personality.

“If you come out and watch

regardless of the bad reputation the police are getting recently, and hopes to change the bad image.

“Ever since I was a kid I wanted to be a cop just to help people,” Fowlkes said. “I feel like if you want change you got to be the change.”

Before joining the police right after college, Fowlkes is deciding to join the navy and be a naval officer to develop his leadership skills.

“Being a police officer and when you go to the academy, they look highly upon people who’ve already had military experience,” Fowlkes said.

Fowlkes wants to be a police officer in the Burbank district because of connections with the police force he developed during a junior cadet program in 2012 after graduating high school.

“I met the chief of police there and the lieutenant. I got in a really good relationship with the lieutenant,” said Fowlkes. “He told me anytime I’m done with school if I want to apply just come talk to him directly.”

practice it’s obvious he’s one of the hardest workers out here,” Smith said. “Off the field he’s probably the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. Nobody I know can ever stay mad at Rob for longer than two seconds. You can’t stay mad at Rob because he’s Rob if that makes sense.”

Fowlkes is a full-time student, a football player and he also works part time at Target. But when the season starts, Fowlkes puts football as his priority.

“My job is a lot more understanding about football,” Fowlkes said. “They let me take a little time off until after the season, and then I come back to work.”

Fowlkes is currently majoring in Criminal Justice and hopes to be a police officer in the future,

A career as a police officer is the goal that Fowlkes is working toward. On the other hand, if an opportunity to go to the NFL is presented he would take it immediately, but realizes the risks in going that direction.

“Sometimes you gotta look and say if I go to the NFL, at most how many years will I have?” Fowlkes said. “You gotta know that at some point in time you’re gonna have to retire and you’re going to be fairly young, so after that what are you going to do with the rest of your life?”

Fowlkes will continue to pursue his goal of becoming a police officer even if he has an opportunity to go to the NFL.

“Maybe just be like a modern day Shaq and do both at the same time,” Fowlkes said.

FRANK ALMAREZ Reporter @FrankAlmarez

“I told him you need to take time off and go take care of your mom, go ahead and do it, and he’s like, “No coach I’m going to be out there.”

-Jason Sabolic Head coach

Megan Moureaux / Roundup

Kyshawn Richards dodges a tackle during the fourth quarter. The Brahmas won 27-16 in Glendale, Calif.

Edgar Amezcula / Roundup

Running back Robert Fowlkes worksouts out in the weight room at Pierce College, Woodland Hils Calif.