Volume 125 Fall 2016 Roundup Issue 11

Gender equity: one stall for all

Gender neutral restrooms to be added by March 17

facilities, according to the California Department of General Services.

Gov. Jerry Brown mandated an amendment of Assembly Bill No. 1732 to include gender inclusive restrooms, according to an announcement made during the Pierce College Council meeting on Nov. 17 by Director of Facilities Paul Nieman. It will take effect as of March 1, 2017.

“The President [Kathleen Burke] wants to do it as soon as possible, but we’re waiting to hear from facilities,” Nieman said.

Nieman said the Division of the State Architect (DSA) must weigh in on when the changes can be made to the facilities on campus, but some people are ready to get it done.

DSA provides design and construction oversight for K-12 schools, community colleges and various other state-owned and leased

Director of the Health Center Beth Benne does not see a problem with the changes being made to the restrooms on campus.

“I don’t see it as being a big deal,” Benne said. “My suggestion was to get rid of the urinals and make them all unisex. To me, what difference does it make? If you’re in stalls and if there’s a man next to you, or a woman next to you or somebody that is gender nonspecific, what difference does it make? The stalls are private. So, I think everybody needs to be comfortable.”

The law stands to include all single-stall restrooms, but Athletic Director Robert Horowitz is concerned it could extend showers and athletic locker rooms as well.

“It’s an administrative decision. It doesn’t affect athletics in any way unless changes bleed out into other areas, then things can become uncomfortable for some,” Horowitz said. “Unless they change the single-

use showers, then we have an issue. What’s the difference between single-use bathrooms and single-use showers, if you look in the long run?”

Leonard Ramirez, athletic trainer, said as far restrooms are concerned, it shouldn’t matter who is using them.

“You can say all the bathrooms have stalls, the doors and everything. If you walk by can you tell if there’s a man or a woman in there without [looking]? So, does it really matter? But showers, that gets a little interesting there,” Ramirez said.

Nieman said all new restrooms will include gender inclusive restrooms and current single-stall facilities on campus will change to include nonspecific signage.

“A gender inclusive restroom does not have to be single-user stalls, it can have three stalls in there. One men, one women and one gender inclusive. People can choose whichever one they like,” Nieman said. “The signage is going to be expensive as they have to include Braille and wheelchair accessibility.”

Benne said that the Student Service Building is new, built in 2010, and it doesn’t have gender inclusive restrooms.

“I did get an email from a counselor, she asked if we knew the location for the gender nonspecific student bathrooms and I told her I don’t think they are ready,” Benne said. “In her email, she had indicated that right now there are only faculty [gender nonspecific] bathrooms, and I didn’t even know there were gender nonspecific faculty bathrooms and apparently, you need a keycard to get into the faculty bathrooms.” Ramirez remembers when he worked as a construction worker and only men were employed. The restrooms catered to men, but when women began working for the company, they didn’t tell the women they couldn’t use the restrooms.

“No one said anything. These are our bathrooms. It’s fair for everyone,” Ramirez said.

Benne said that the health center has a single-stall bathroom and

Historical insight in modern time Fences explores racial barriers in family drama

everybody uses it without complaint.

According to Benne, the Health Center has one bathroom inside and everyone is able to use it without questioning.

“You go in because you need to give a urine sample or you’re a

patient here and you need to use the bathroom,” Benne said. “We all get along just fine because it’s a singlestall bathroom and nobody cares.”

Outage leaves campus in dark

Campus black outs leave students in the dark

Two unrelated power outages in the past three weeks caught many students and faculty offguard.

Classes were cancelled after the blackout on Nov. 9 but classes were cancelled at professor’s discretion on Wednesday, Nov. 23.

Power went out on campus around 6:24 a.m. this morning Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2016.

According to Maria Moe, spokesperson for the Department of Water and Power, she said it is a single phase condition and it could have been a blown jumper.

“We’ve received information before 8 a.m.” Moe said. “There are currently crews on Brahma Drive.”

According to Deputy Barreras, this power outage is not related to the recent power outage that occurred on Wednesday November 9, 2016.

was about 8:45 a.m.”

When Paggi arrived to campus, she saw about 10 DWP trucks parked on Brahma Drive and Winnetka Ave, near the agricultural area on campus and is hoping they are working on it.

According to the Falafelicious owner Ofir Bass, when the power went out this morning, they called in the food truck to campus because they can’t operate without power.

“We can’t make food so we called in our food truck. It’s affecting us big time,” Bass said. “They’re keeping us updated, they’re coming every 20 minutes and letting us know.”

Pierce College student Lislie Abac, arrived to campus but she was not informed about the power outage.

“Someone told me near the library, I didn’t know until I came in today.”

Drama takes the stage, transcending time with themes of overcoming social norms and a universal tale of familial bonds that speaks to audience members across the spectrum with the production of August Wilson’s “Fences.”

Set in 1950’s Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the story follows the life of 53-year-old garbage collector Troy Maxson as he struggles to provide for his family. Troy, one-time home run king of the Negro Baseball League, grapples with his past and his youngest son, Cory Maxson. Cory, an emerging football star, sees the world though different eyes. Troy must come to terms with his past dreams and opportunities that were denied to him due to the color barrier, or risk tearing his family apart.

“What I love about this play is that it makes you think of your

culture, other people's culture and the diversity, because we are living in a time that is very relevant,” said stage manager Karen Ashley. “I am so happy we are doing this.”

Director of the production Valorie Grear said that she decided to direct the play because it is an mportant work that speaks to a diverse audience as well as students.

The characters of the play include: Troy Maxson (Lester Purry), wife Rose Maxson (Victoria Rene Hubbard), best friend Jim Bono (Stan McDowell) , youngest son Cory Maxson (Jean Hyppolite), brother Gabriel Maxson (Cliff Ingram), eldest son Lyons Maxson (Kevin Linell) and 8-year-old daughter Raynell Maxson (Kiarra Beasley).

Wilson’s play provides insight into a time period when discrimination was rampant against people of color and it inspires everyone to see the heart of the human spirit, Grear said.

“When I read this play I understood something that I have not understood

before, and I have experienced something that I have not experienced before and become immersed in a work that had the power to change me after I read it,” Grear said.

McDowell explained how Wilson’s plays are unique in that he shows something that hasn’t been seen on television or even in movie theatres.

“It's a play that actually gives voice to African Americans during a time period when they haven’t had a voice. That's the great thing about it because he does it in a artistic and powerful way,” McDowell said.

Actress Hubbard loves that this play is multifaceted and that there are lots of colors within the show that compels the audience to feel a lot of different things. She mentions that the relationship between Rose and Troy will be a familiar sight for viewers.

“As an audience member, I believe everyone will walk away from this particular play being able to relate to a lot of the ups and downs that Rose has encountered with Troy, but most

importantly the forgiveness and the undying love for her husband,” Hubbard said.

Purry, who has been cast in numerous adaptations of Wilson’s work, said Wilson writes about every man and women in his stories.

“What I think is unique about Troy is, the same that is unique of all the characters, that they really are for real when you read and perform them,” Purry said. “You actually feel, see, and here real people that either you have known or know because they remind you of someone in your family or in your neighborhood, regardless of your ethnicity.”

“Fences” will be presented on Friday, Dec. 2 and continue through Sunday, Dec. 11 in the Performing Arts Mainstage. Tickets priced at $12 for students, $15 for senior citizens and $18 for general admisison can be purchased on brownpapertickets.com.

Pierce College associate professor of library science and department chair, Paula Paggi, her staff informed her about the outage before she received an a message from the college.

“Thankfully we have cell phones, my staff contacted me before we opened and said everything just went down,” Paggi said. “My staff is here at 7 a.m. to prepare. I connected with my dean who connected with vice president, and will let us know if we should shut down the campus or should open, so I let my staff know immediately what to do.”

According to Paggi, when the power went out this morning the emergency lights went on and Paggi is hoping the power will be restored for afternoon events she has scheduled.

“We’re keeping people informed, I’m keeping informed with my dean and VP,” Paggi said. “DWP is working on it, hopefully it will be up soon, that

The power went back on around 10:13 a.m. Please check with your instructor about additional information.

-Paula Paggi Department chair of library science

RICHARD ESPINOZA Reporter

@Richard6515789

Taylor Arthur / Roundup

Victoria Hubbard (Rose) stands behind a screen door while Lester Purry (Troy) and Jean Hyppolite (Cory), argue on the set of “Fences” on the main stage of the Performing Arts Building at P ierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif.

Graphic by Taylor Arthur

“

We’re keeping people informed, I’m keeping informed with my dean and VP. DWP is working on it, hopefully it will be up soon, that was about 8:45 a.m.”

Whatʼs your dream car?

“An old school low rider car that is very expensive, a gas guzzler and is bad for the environment, because you gotta go all out man.”

-Juan Meraz, Child Development

“A Jeep Wrangler. It has to be convertible, because I feel that thatʼs fun to go on the beach with, and PCH.”

- Ellen Circa, Undecided

The Great Recession is over and the nation continues its slow recovery, but the damage has been done. College education didn’t come out unscathed, and the woes continue with tuition hikes to the University of California and California State University systems.

According to the LA Times, the UC system voted on Thursday, Nov. 17 to increase tuition by up to five percent for the next five years. This means that students would have to pay $12,804 per semester to enroll in a university. By 2020, UC tuition rates could rise to more than $15,500 a semester.

UC President Janet Napolitano said that it’s necessary for the UC system to increase tuition to offset state budget cuts that could have covered faculty salaries and pensions, the costs of increased enrollment and to maintain the UC reputation.

Taking into consideration that college tuition encompases more than the cost for an individual student’s education, this debt is unnecessary. They are paying for their professors’ salaries. They are paying to fund intercollegiate athletics, which oftentimes cost more to fund than the revenue it brings in.

That’s not to say that all of this should be done away with. It shouldn’t because it contributes to the culture. But if such burdens are to be placed on students, there should be factors that minimize the risk of investing in higher education.

Gov. Jerry Brown, who voted against the tuition hike, suggested that the UC system cut back on spending instead of increasing tuition. He suggested that plans that expedite the time it takes to complete a degree and offering more online classes would decrease costs.

“Iʼd like to get a Tesla for myself, just because itʼs saving the fuel and the environment, itʼs safe. Plus I follow Elon Musk. Heʼs my mentor also, so just for that sake.”

-Manish Kumar, Finance

“Thatʼs easy. A Shelby Cobra! Itʼs been my dream car ever since I was little. Itʼs been in most of the fast and furious movies, but thatʼs not why I like it. I love it because the sound is just so amazing. Every time I hear it, I love it.”

-Ashley Bray, Child Development

-Corrections-

Volume 125, Issue 10:

Page 1: The protest photo was taken by Taylor Arthur.

Page 2: The margin of victory for Hillary Clinton in the popular vote was 2.2 million, not 395,050.

Page 3: The first name of Stephanie Winnard was not mentioned.

Brown has also proposed to cut funding to UCs by $500 million next year.

Now Mr. Governor, it seems like you are trying to take one step forward and several dozen steps back. The solution to this problem

is not to further inhibit the quality of higher education by cutting costs that add enrichment and experience to the college career, but to stop cutting altogether.

Proposing that universities rush students to receive a degree in three years instead of the standard four years implies the worst fears of many, that public higher education is becoming nothing more than a cash grab. Is a degree worth it anymore?

Statistics say yes. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), those with a bachelor’s degree earn about 65 percent more than those who only have a high school diploma. Despite that, tuition increases are doing a splendid job of scaring away potential students.

Between 2000 and 2013, tuition at four-year universities increased by 87 percent, while American household incomes only increased by 24 percent, according to CNBC. Increased budget cuts only aggravate the situation.

According to CNBC, California spends 25 percent of taxpayer dollars on Medicaid, 21 percent on K-12 education, and only seven percent on higher education with the plurality of funds going toward “other.” Healthcare programs and mandatory education, by law, are allocated a specific amount of funding. Higher education, considered a discretionary expenditure, often bears the blows of a weak and unbalanced budget.

Public funding for higher education should be increased and prioritized just as much as secondary education. High school diplomas are becoming obsolete. Putting more worth on lower education has the potential to stagnate our society.

Tuition, not federal funding, contributes most of a college’s budget in most states, according to the LA Times. A study by Delta Price Projects concluded that because public funding is the lowest it’s ever been in the last ten years, college students are now paying half or more

to fund their education costs.

According to the College Board, tuition for the University of California is $12,192, several thousand dollars more than the national average tuition of $8,893 of all public colleges.

It is to the nation’s advantage that citizens attain a higher education to go into the workforce as public servants the doctors, lawyers and politicians of tomorrow. Tuivtion hikes limit the accessibility of these so-called “public” institutions and ostracize those without the adequate resources to afford a higher education, leaving college only for the select few.

According to the LA Times, more

than two thirds of students graduated this year with a debt averaging $35,000. To avoid this, students are enrolling in less expensive colleges and choosing two-years over fouryears. As a result, low and moderateincome students are statistically earning less bachelor’s degrees.

Napolitano said that 50 percent of in-state students receive enough financial aid to fully cover tuition, and about half graduate without debt. That number can and should be higher. College shouldn’t be a 50/50 gamble of crippling debt. This isn’t the stock market; this is our future.

Are using apps like Uber and Lyft better than driving your own car?

LONDY SAGASTUME Reporter

@lsagastume93

Why spend tons of money on gas, hassle with parking and pay insurance for a car when you can just take an Uber?

Uber is a quick and easy way to get from point A to point B without the concerns that the average driver worries about. Taking an Uber avoids many difficult situations. For example, the driver deals with traffic. Although passengers deal with traffic, not owning a car would avoid incidents like having to exchange information, insurance details, paying for damages and paying for a rental while your car gets fixed.

Taking Uber is also convenient when it comes to social gatherings like going to bars, concerts and events. By riding in an Uber rather than driving your own vehicle, you avoid stress.

During the weekends many people choose to take an Uber even if they own a car. The reason for this is because many participate in social drinking. After a couple drinks, it is the safest and smartest measure to take an Uber. If you are intoxicated on a Saturday night with your friends, it is better to order an Uber rather than risk getting a DUI. Driving under the influence doesn’t only risk your life, but also the lives of others.

Also, attending events is frustrating due to packed parking lots.

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Amy Au Reza Rastegarrazi

Ezzat Wanas

Calvin B. Alagot

Jordan Nathan

Sonia Gurrola

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However, when taking an Uber it is easier to be dropped off and picked up in the entrance. In an attempt to avoid this, many hotels and venues have a specific entrance for Uber drivers to pick up and drop off their customers. In addition to being quick and easy, Uber is also affordable compared to taxis. Uber drivers charge by the distance traveled between where you are picked up to where you are going. Usually the prices range, but they are affordable to many who also enjoy their customer service. Uber also offers uberPOOL, which lets you split the cost of a ride with other passengers. When taking uberPOOL, the driver picks you and others up around the area. Each passenger is then dropped off one at a time. This saves money since the distance between rides is shared.

Lastly, Uber is useful overall because it gets you around. It is faster than taking the metro, subway or driving your own car. Taking the bus can be cheap, but it might be time consuming due to all the stops. Uber makes your life as a whole lot less stressful because all you’re doing is taking the back seat and enjoying the ride.

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Cartoonists:

Nelson Simmons

Chanaelle Chahayed

Advertising Manager: Matt Thacker

*For advertising call Matt at (818) 710-2960

MARIA TRINIDAD Reporter

@mariat_roundup

When it comes to transportation, there are many doubts on whether it’s better to rideshare or drive your own car. Driving your car is better because you don’t have to wait for your ride to arrive and it’s simply safer.

Nowadays, everybody wants to Uber. Even though Uber can be beneficial to most people, it can have its also has its downsides. Although Uber has been around for a long time and since then has grown tremendously to serve the people, driving your own car is more convenient and helpful.

According to Business Insider, it is cheaper to own a car than to take Uber everywhere. If you are that type of person who goes out a lot, then yes, drive your own car. You will save some money. You will also be able to go to multiple places without having to wait for a driver.

For example, if you and your friends are out and, all of a sudden, there is a change of plans and now you want to go eat, there is no need to call an Uber and wait when you have your car parked around the corner.

Driving your own car can be a lot more comfortable than taking an Uber, too. Driving your car

is like having a baby. You feel comfortable, safe and you know its needs. When you take an Uber, you obviously don’t know the driver, so it may be awkward to ask for a specific type of music or talk on the phone without having the driver listening to the conversation. However, if you drive your own car, you can listen to the type of music you like as loud as you want. Also, if you’re in a rush or simply a fast driver, the speed limit is all up to you. As college students, we have obligations, which may include work, internships, driving to your boyfriend or girlfriend’s house or picking up kids from school. These type of duties can’t wait.

If you are a mother and receive a call from your kid’s school that you have to pick them up because they’re sick, there is no time to wait for an Uber. These life emergencies occur all the time, which is why owning a car is very important. You never know when you might need it.

mtrinidad.roundupnews@gmail.com

and photos, unless run under the editorial masthead, and columns are the opinions of the creators and not necessarily that of the Roundup. The college newspaper is

published as a learning experience under the college journalism instructional program. The editorial and advertising materials published herein, including any opinions expressed, are the responsibility of the student newspaper staff. Under appropriate state and federal court decisions, these materials are free from prior restraint by the virtue of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America. Accordingly, materials published herein, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the L.A. Community College District, the college or any officer or employee thereof.

Quotes gather by Brian Caldera | Photos by Abdolreza Rastegarrazi

Illustration by Nelson Simmons Mascar-mascart.tumblr.com

No pot spots on campus

Smoking marijuana is still illegal on federally funded colleges

VANESSA ARREDONDO

Copy Editor

The approval of Proposition 64 brought concerns to Pierce College faculty and administration regarding the legal use of recreational marijuana in the two designated smoking areas of an otherwise smoke-free campus.

Proposition 64, which makes smoking, buying and growing recreational marijuana legal in California, was approved by 56.85 percent of voters, according to Ballotpedia.

“Proposition 64 shouldn’t affect Pierce College at all,” said Director of the Pierce College Health Center Beth Benne. “We are federally funded so marijuana is still illegal to smoke on campus in the smoking areas. All the colleges in our ninecampus district are federally funded. It’s very black and white.”

According to Benne, the campus sheriff approached them with questions about how they wanted the situation handled. Pierce faculty and administration were concerned that students would mistakenly think that smoking marijuana on campus is permitted.

“Pierce College receives federal

Safety awareness

VANESSA ARREDONDO Copy Editor @v_anana

Safety is an aspect that campus administration and sheriffs prioritize to ensure an environment fit for study; however, when the few crime incidents do occur, steps are

money which means we follow federal law,” said Deputy Al Guerrero. “Under federal law, marijuana is still outlawed.”

According to Dean of Student Engagement Juan Carlos Astorga, students have already started to ask whether they can use the designated smoking areas on campus to smoke marijuana.

“I've had to tell them, ‘I'm really happy for you that you're happy that this passed, but unfortunately you won't be allowed to smoke marijuana on campus,” Astorga said. “‘You would still be found to be in violation of the student code of conduct for the use of drugs.’”

According to Proposition 64, it will still be illegal to smoke marijuana in public and near school zones, while operating vehicles and machinery, and wherever the smoking of tobacco is prohibited.

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill in September that would have banned all smoking in California state and community colleges. Brown said the bill was unnecessary as college campuses could set their own smoking policies.

“We have tobacco regulation on campus and we are [against] any type of smoking or vaping or e-cigs,” Benne said. “It is a health hazard. I don’t care what you’re smoking. We will continue with the efforts we’ve been doing with the tobacco cessation program.”

Pierce College’s Smoke and Tobacco-Free College Regulation states that any type of smoking is prohibited indoor and outdoor on Pierce property except for the two

taken to secure the grounds.

On Nov. 7, Deputy Barreras stated in the incident report that a special services student, through the Tierra Del Rey Program, was standing in front of the Student Services Building on Nov. 4 when an unknown suspect, described as a 5’10 black male, threatened to shoot him if he did not hand over his wallet. Though the victim never saw the gun, he feared for his life and relinquished his wallet, the report states. The suspect ran off after attaining the wallet which contained the victim’s bank card, two single dollar bills and his Pierce ID.

The 2015 Blue Ribbon Panel on Campus Safety and Emergency Preparedness states that crime has been “relatively low” throughout

designated areas, Parking Lot 1 and Parking Lot 7.

“They are not necessarily enforced,” Benne said. “They wanted somewhere away from the overpopulated areas of the campus and classrooms, but many of the faculty have complained about people smoking by the windows right outside the classrooms and it affecting people with health conditions.”

Benne said that even with designated areas, students still smoke where they are not supposed to, but in some cases it's not for a lack of trying.

“Most people smoke in the faculty section of [Parking Lot 1] because it has the shades, and that’s illegal,” Benne said. “The second area, which I have never seen anyone walk to way out there to smoke a cigarette, is Parking Lot 7 along Victory. Bless them if they do, but I don’t know anybody who does. I feel silly telling people that’s where the other smoking area is.”

Benne’s goal is to have the campus be 100 percent smoke-free.

“It was a huge defeat for myself and many of my peers throughout the state when that bill was not signed by Gov. Brown,” Benne said. “I’m a health provider, and it’s a foreign substance that you’re putting in your body and it alters your metabolism and brain function. I'm anti all of that.”

varredondo.roundupnews@gmail.com

the nine colleges in the Los Angeles Community College District. Of the 754 crimes reported by LACCD campuses in 2015, Pierce only accounted for 77 crimes total, two were violent and the rest were either property crimes or lesser crimes.

The 2016 Pierce College Clery Act Report indicates that Pierce is generally a safe campus, reporting only one robbery and two burglaries in 2015.

“I believe that it’s a very safe campus,” said Vice President of Student Services Earic DixonPeters. “Safety is a top priority for us as a college because it impacts a few things: You can’t study, you can’t learn, if you don’t feel safe. Safety is our primary responsibility to make sure the environment is conducive for people to complete

Confusion in construction

NADINE

News Editor @ngostantian

The recently published schedule on the Pierce College website for spring and winter 2017 shows that classes are going to be held in the newly remodeled and renamed buildings.

The remodeled building opening dates and the names of these buildings have been a topic of discussion among faculty during the last Academic Senate meetings. The remodeled buildings 800, 1100,

their educational goals.”

According to the incident report, the victim reported the crime three days after it occurred, following an exchange of emails from his mother who expressed her concerns with the victim’s special services coach. Barreras states in the report that the coach was present to assist the victim with the interview because, though the victim spoke English, his speech was limited.

The victim gave a physical description of the suspect and of his clothing, however, it is often recommended that in cases like this, the crime is reported immediately.

“I would hope that in moments like this, individuals subject to a robbery or an invasion of personal space would report it as quickly as possible because the likeliness of us

Rundown Rundown

1700, 1600, and 900 are going to be named Juniper, Birch, Elm, Ginger, and Iris respectively.

The Juniper building, which is near the former Child Development Center, is planned to have the majority of the English classes held. However, the date of completion of the building has created confusion among faculty.

According to Donna Accardo, English department Chair, 300 classes have no classrooms because the classes listed in the Juniper building cannot meet in the building as construction is not complete yet.

“I have been frustrated over the unknown opening date of the Juniper building,” Accardo said. “I’m looking forward to getting concrete details about the opening [of the building].”

Ed Cadena, Project Manager, refused to give any further details.

“No determination about [the opening of the building] has been made yet,” Cadena said.

ngostantian.roundupnews@gmail.com

being able to identify the suspect is at a much higher probability,” Astorga said. “If it’s reported later, it becomes an instance of us taking information down and keeping an eye out. Being aware of our surroundings is vitally important, but I also want to empower students so that anytime they feel unsafe they immediately contact the sheriff’s office.”

According to Dixon-Peters, administration responds accordingly to incidents reported by the campus sheriff.

[For

varredondo.roundupnews@gmail.com

These incidents were reported between Nov. 10 - Nov. 24

Reported by: Nadine Gostantian

11/10 Vandalism

Items were stolen from two vending machines by the old library building and the Center for Sciences building at around 4 p.m.

11/21 Student Incident

An inappropriate message was left on the floor of the photo lab of the Art building. Pierce College cadets were unable to provide any further information.

11/24 Petty Theft

Two change boxes were stolen from the vending machines in the Center for Sciences building at around 4 p.m.

11/14 Ill students / visitors

Four students and one visitor fell ill between Nov. 14 and 23. One incident occured in the North Gym dance studio when they were transported via paramedics to a nearby hospital between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Pierce College

Sheriff’s Station

General Information:

Emergency: (818) 710 - 4311

Unknown completion dates create frustration between faculty members

GOSTANTIAN

Following robbery, students urged to report on-campus incidents as quickly as possible

A swashbuckling side job for a geology major turns into passion Student finds booty as a pirate

ALMA LOPEZ Reporter @alopezz2

Xmarks the spot for loose corks, spiced rum and a hidden treasure. It’s a pirate’s life or no life for geology major Elizabeth Colella.

Colella has been re-enacting pirate acts for 10 years and has never been merrier.

Colella started doing pirate reenactments when her sister’s friend needed help at a vendor booth for an event. Actually, Colella’s sister volunteered her to play the part. She then continued working for the vendor for three years. Soon after, Colella went off and continued her journey as a solo pirate, until 2014 when she joined Outlaw Pirates, an actual pirate crew that works events for parties and kids. As far as events, the biggest one takes place in Belmont. They bring their ship fully decked out along with the entire crew.

“We do a lot of public events. They’re usually straight at the festival that is planned in town or wherever they’re holding events,” Colella said. “Our biggest festival every year is in Belmont. We have our ship moored out by the pier.”

Like an actual pirate crew, Colella mentioned they even have a captain, Captain Morgan to be exact, and yes that’s his real name.

“Wherever my captain says he needs me, if I can schedule around my exams and homework, I will pirate away,” Colella said.

Aside from her crew, Colella also mentioned she has a pet parrot, Sydney. Her goal is to train Sydney so she can bring him along to upcoming events and join their other parrot, Stella, who’s already trained and part of the crew.

According to Colella, every member has a certain role that they have to play when they go out to the events. Her position is called

the ‘Gaoler’.

“The Gaoler on a pirate crew has basically the same responsibilities that a present-day jailer does, to take charge of and watch over any prisoners that might have been taken.” Colella said. “I’m an officer on the crew, second only to the first mate and the Captain himself. By Boatswain’s mate, I mean that I’m basically her ‘righthand girl.’”

While pirating, she is also focused on school. Majoring in Geology has always been an interest of hers.

“I’ve always been fascinated by rocks and the Earth’s forces that create them since I was a kid. I always had rocks in my pockets. I don’t think much has changed,” Colella said. “I’m always finding random rocks in my backpack and purse, so I figured what better thing to do than turn my fascination and hobby into a degree.”

The main influence from all this comes from Roxanne Colella, her older sister, who was actually a member of the first pirate reenacting group in Los Angeles. She joined the Brethren of the Coast in 1989.

“I’ve always been an entertainer, so I spend most of my pirate time singing, dancing and acting.

Like my sister, I’m also loud, so shouting out Captain’s orders or announcing events generally falls within my wheelhouse,” Roxanne Colella said. “I’ve moved away, so now I do guest appearances, but one day I’ll head up the Florida chapter of Outlaw Pirates because that’s what Captain Morgan ordered me to do.”

As far as dating life goes for Elizabeth Colella, according to her, people get weirded out by the idea when she tells them what she does as a hobby.

“I don’t have time for a man right now. It never works out. They’re like, ‘You’re a what?’ I pretty much don’t have time to nurture a relationship. I have a goal with school,” Elizabeth Colella

said. “My life revolves around school, pirates, and the bird, can’t forget the bird.”

According to Morgan Griffin, captain of the Outlaw Pirates, it’s Elizabeth Colella’s job to take care of any problems among the crew.

“She has to take care of over a hundred girls that are on the crew. She’s an excellent person. She’s very outgoing and talkative,” Griffin said. “As of me, I’m just the captain and I’ve been doing this for 15 years. We own our own pirate ship around birds and I run the Outlaw Pirate, which is the largest pirate women crew in the world.”

Most of the inspiration for this also comes from books. According to Elizabeth Colella, books are far more inspirational and realistic than watching a pirate film, as Hollywood has manipulated the idea of what it actually is. For her, it’s a way of historical reenactment.

Elizabeth Colella and her crew’s next event is going to be taking place in February, and she’s already preparing for it.

“I’m already planning for February. New costuming, new leather, new everything,” Elizabeth Colella said.

Music major inspires Pierce students

Majoring in music is often questioned as to whether it will lead one to a successful career path or not, but what most people don’t realize is that music is relentless. It is a form of speech that is expressed in such a way that cannot be formally spoken.

Former Pierce College student

Bryan Barcinas is currently studying music composition at Cal. State University, Northridge (CSUN). Barcinas grew up watching a lot of Disney movies that inspired him to pursue a career in music with a focus in film. He is a self-taught musician, and can play the guitar and piano.

The love that Barcinas has for music is what allowed him to follow his dreams. During his senior year in high school he took a composition class with a professor from University of Cal., Berkeley whom assured him of what he wants to do.

“I’ve always been a fan of Disney movies and video games and I got into composing music at Pierce. I started to take some music classes and that is what got me into majoring in music,” Barcinas said.

While Barcinas was attending Pierce, he took private lessons for composition with professor Neal Desby at the University of Southern California.

During his time at Pierce, Barcinas and a few other friends created a club, League of Musicians, to help others. It was

constructed to help any students who are hesitant or unsure whether to major in music or not, and to tutor those who need help with certain classes. The club had over 20 members. Barcinas also tutored kids that were mentally impaired.

On Nov. 14 and 16, Barcinas and a friend of his, Omar Del Real, came to Pierce to give a lecture to over 200 students on what it takes to be a successful transfer student in majors such as music, theater and more. The students were split into two groups, each with 100 people. The lecture lasted 30-40 min. It was his first lecture in which he described as “great”.

Barcinas wants to give back to the community and inspire people. At the lecture, he gave out his email to those who had any questions regarding music, art, or animation since he has many connections at UCLA, CSUN and USC.

Barcinas’ accomplishments and hard work has opened up a lot of opportunities for him. He worked with USC on animations that premiered in a festival in Korea.

“It was pretty big for me because that was my first premiere of awards,” Barcinas said.

When he first attended CSUN he wanted to reach out. Barcinas sent out emails to USC since they were having a first look festival, which is an animation festival.

Barcinas had a website designed that opened many doors for him.

“That opened a lot of gates for me. That website is my vehicle towards finding clients, reaching the world and finding creative people,” Barcinas said.

According to Barcinas, he won

a school scholarship for most promising composer. All his hard work has given him the chance to live on his own, and composing music has helped become a more independent student.

Next semester, Barcinas will be starting an internship where he will be working for big production houses in Los Angeles that focus on movies.

“By the age of 30, I hope that I’ve done a television show that’s on t.v. or all over the world, or perhaps a movie that is out in theaters,” Barcinas said.

Pierce College student Leonardo Garcia said Barcinas organized sectionals to go over the notes with whatever section people need help with.

“He’s a really cool guy and outgoing person. It was definitely a good idea for him to come and give a lecture. I think everyone in there benefited. I’ve been debating on whether I should major in music and him going over his life and personally speaking to him just kind of solidified the fact that I should be pursuing music,” Garcia said.

Instructor of music John Schneider said Barcinas really cares about his future and is a top student.

“Bryan had been self-serving and self-promoting in a wonderful way. He was always involved, helping out other people and offering to be a tutor. He was one of my best students,” Schneider said.

Photo courtesy of Austin Cooper

Abdolreza Rastegarrazi/ Roundup

Elizabeth Colella participates in impromptu pirate-styled reenactments. Nov. 23 2016, in the Art department at Pierce College, in woodland Hills, Calif.

“Wherever my captain says he needs me, if I can schedule around my exams and homework, I will pirate away.”

- Elizabeth Colella Geology major

Deadline

Dance Company steps onto world stage to learn

In the air, sliding on the dance floor men and women dressed in 1930’s-styled sailor suits and floral dresses, swung to the sounds of the brass family.

The Pierce College Dance Company competed in the US Open Dance Championships Team Division Finals on Friday, Nov. 25 at 8:15 p.m. at the LA Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel. The event was one of many competitions and workshops organized for the US Open where competitors from across the nation and globe danced for titles.

“We committed a lot of time and effort to it,” dance major and member Cassandra Godinez said. “It was an awesome experience. It was actually my third time going to that competition, but for a lot of people on our team it was there first time ever being there. So, it was a really cool experience.”

Emily Part, Alejandra Leon, Camila Medel, Godinez, Julio Elias, Derek Kosol, Giancarlo Zapata and Chris de-Piazza composed the group directed by dance instructor and Vice Chair of the Performing Arts Department Denise Gibson.

“I was actually really nervous and my nerves transferred inward,”

Zapata said. “We didn’t place sadly, but we gave it all that we could. It sucks, but I’m happy with our performance.”

The team placed ninth among their competition. Although they did not win a title, the experience was invaluable as it provided the opportunity to network with other dancers and learn from one another through social dancing, said Godinez.

“Social dancing is like when you go out onto the dance floor and just grab a random partner that you’ve never met before and start swing dancing,” Godinez said. “Emily was swing dancing for like eight hours straight with competitors who are world wide champions, and I think she learned valuable things from that.”

At first the team was unsure that they were to participate in the open because they lost a dance couple earlier in the semester due to an injury, according to Gibson.

“Didn’t really expect anything, but I hoped that they had good performance, which they had,” Gibson said. “Judging is a person’s opinion and as long as you go out there and you do a great performance, that’s what matters. They got a half-standing ovation which is more important than anything, that they were loved by the audience.”

Gibson added that the group excelled in the long run as a team and they maintained superb showmanship, as well as having

compete for awards

the best facial expressions out of any of the teams.

“I kept emphasizing that you are only as good as your weakest link,”

Gibson said. “It doesn’t matter how good you have the choreography if the person next to you doesn’t.

You’re graded as a team, judged

as a team. In the end, they came together and supported one another, which was nice to see.”

Below: Lester Purry (Troy) moves to swing a bat at his son (Cory) as they perform in a dress rehearsal of “Fences” on the main stage of the Performing Arts Center at Pierce college on Nov. 29, 2016 in Woodland Hills, Calif.

LAPCTheatre Presents ‘Fences’

Bottom Left: Stan MCDowell (Bono), Victoria Hubbard (Rose), Cliff Ingram (Gabriel), and Kevin Linell (Lyons) perform on the set of “Fences” on the amain stage of the Performing Arts Building on Nov. 29, 2016 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif.

Bottom Right: Victoria Hubbard (Rose) bursts out into emotion after Lester Purry, who plays Rose’s husband Troy, informed her of an affair he has been having as they perform in a dress rehearsal of “Fences” on the main stage of the Performing Arts Building at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Nov. 29, 2016.

The rhythm of blues music and the distinctive sound of a harmonica pours out of the speakers on the main stage of the Performing Arts Building as actors take the stage for a rehearsal of “Fences.”

Winning the 1897 Tony award for best play and Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the play is emotionally charged with themes of race and coming of age. Set in the 1950’s, the play discusses the effects of post-slavery america and the open discrimination of African-Americans.

Featuring an all black cast, Lester Purry plays Troy, a 53 year-old man who works as garbage collector and head of his household while Victoria Hubbard acts as Rose, Troy’s wife of 18 years. Their two sons Cory and Lyons, are played by Jene Hyppolite and Kevin Linell.

“Fences” will premiere at 8 p.m. on Dec. 2, 2016 and it will run through Sunday Dec. 11. Tickets are $12 for students, $18, for general admission and $15 for seniors.

Photos and Copy by Taylor Arthur

Right: Lester Purry, saws off a piece of wood while performing as Troy in “Fences” on the main stage of the Performing Arts Building at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif.

Whitley DossSophomore

Whitley Doss had 12 kills in the game against Golden West College to help the team reach State.

How do you prepare for games?

sisters and my aunt played in college and coached a little bit in Missouri. All of my family played sports so I had to pick one.”

How do you feel about your performance last weekend?

championships are held. How are you preparing yourself?

“Personally I will try to get enough sleep and stay hydrated. Take care of my body and be on top of my game this week.”

Volleyball

The No. 2 ranked Brahmas had the Rustlers from Golden West College seeing red Saturday, Nov. 26, as they took the second round regional playoff match in straight sets, moving on to the state championships.

Golden West College, ranked No. 13 in the state and No. 7 in Southern California, came out to Ken Stanley Court ready to play and looking for an upset against the Brahmas. The Rustlers had a strong defensive presence that Pierce hadn’t seen this season.

“We haven’t seen a team that digs so many balls like that. I give them a lot of credit,” head coach Nabil Mardini said. “They put pressure on us with their defense, but we put a lot of pressure on them with our serving, and our offense and our setting.”

The match began back and forth with both sides trading small leads to start the first set. Pierce began to pull away slightly midway through the set taking a 19-13 lead, but the Rustlers clawed their way back to within one, 20-19. The Brahmas would hold set point at 24-20 before taking it 25-23.

Pierce seized control of the second set from the start and never let go, winning 25-15.

“In the middle [of the first set] is where you really start to see us sort of fall out of our rhythm,” freshman Cassidy Rosso said. “We got back into it at the end to close that set and then we used that momentum to start off the second set.”

The third and final set began much like the first. The two teams

Mitch’s Pitches

“I’ve always listened to Gucci Mane before my games. It gets me pumped up. I take a minute just to be by myself and clear my head. All the music and cheering in the gym, I go to a quiet space and get focused.”

Who inspired you to play volleyball?

“My mom inspired me. She played in high school and her

“Honestly, I feel really proud of myself and I’m really happy.

I’ve had a rough start to the season, just kind of a rough patch. I came out when it really mattered in the second round of playoffs and do my job, put some kills and points on the board.”

This weekend the state

Which professional volleyball player do you admire?

“I want to say Kerri Walsh Jennings, because I’ve met with her. I had the privilege of also speaking to her. She is my number one favorite as she has many successes throughout her career.”

Brahma of the Week Womenʼs volleyball makes it to State First and second round wins at regionals send Brahmas to the quarter nals

SCHEDULE

Nov. 30 to Dec.7 Womenʼs

Saturday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 4 Dec. 3 vs. Sierra 1 p.m. vs. TBA 7 p.m. Dec. 4 vs. TBA 2 p.m. Menʼs Basketball West LA Tournament

Thursday, Dec. 1 to Saturday, Dec. 3 @ West LA TBA

Womenʼs Basketball

Thursday, Dec. 1 to Saturday, Dec.

Wednesday, Dec. 7 @ Glendale 5 p.m.

Womenʼs basketball

@Richard65157819

The Brahmas lost consecutive games against MiraCosta College and Oxnard College in the LA Pierce College tournament on Friday, Nov. 25 and Saturday, Nov. 26.

The MiraCosta College Spartans outscored the Brahmas by 20 points in the first half.

Pierce had 24 turnovers in the game, allowing MiraCosta to capitalize on scoring. Although the Brahmas had 39 rebounds and went to the net more than 50 times, the team averaged 46 percent on 2-pointers and 3-pointers.

traded points back and forth.

Golden West College held a 10-9 lead before the Brahmas busted loose and took a commanding 2011 lead.

The Rustlers weren’t ready to just ride home that easily, battling back to within 2 points, 23-21, before Pierce would finally put away the third set 25-22.

The CCCAA State Championships are the next stop, and the Brahmas won’t have far to go. Pierce hosts the tournament which begins Saturday, Dec. 3.

The four top teams from

Let me pitch you something: athletes, stay in shape during the holidays.

During this season there lies several temptations that can affect your performance: procrastination, overeating and lack of exercise.

Some community college sports like football, soccer, or water polo have wrapped up their season, which can give the athletes an excuse to relax, or simply, an excuse to be lazy.

However, yes, a sports season is an exhausting grind. Athletes should use their time off to improve and polish their skills.

Northern California and Southern California will meet in the two-day tournament.

“All the motivation is right there,” Boykin said. “At home, state, another banner, and we don’t want a repeat from last year’s state final.”

Last year’s state final that Boykin refers to saw the Brahmas finish second, falling to the Cabrillo College Seahawks in the championship game.

Those same Seahawks are the No. 4 team in the state, No. 1 in Northern California, coming into

The holiday season should be used as an opportunity to take a step forward, not a step back.

It gives you, your teammates and your coaches trouble if you’re struggling to work your way back into shape instead of using the offseason to improve for the next season.

For those athletes whose sport begins in the winter or spring, the fact that it is the holidays should not be any excuse to relax.

So how can athletes stay in shape?

First and foremost, athletes need to monitor their diet. Do not eat because you are bored, which a lot of

this year’s postseason, and the Brahmas could collide with them in the semifinal round.

The advantage of being at Ken Stanley Court could be a key factor in this year’s state championship for Pierce.

“We want to be at home. We’re good at home,” Mardini said. “It’s going to be a comfort thing. Just being at home, hopefully bringing back the trophy on our home court.”

Comfort at home is something Mardini may not know for a while. His wife had a child Wednesday,

us (including myself) do. Just because you have more time on your hands doesn’t mean you should be digging your hands into the cookie jar.

It is also important that you develop a routine where you workout, eat and sleep around the same time; ultimately, developing healthy habits that become easier for your body to maintain if you continue to go about your routine.

Furthermore, besides staying in shape, improving your skills is essential to growth; every new season is about getting better.

If your family, friends or lover

and there’s a question whether the game or baby kept him up more.

“It’s a combination of both,” Mardini said. “But I’m going to get a good night’s sleep tonight.”

The Brahmas’ quarterfinal matchup will be Saturday, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m. versus Sierra College from Northern California, followed by the semifinal the same day at 7 p.m. The championship game will be on Sunday, Dec. 4, at 2 p.m. All games are at Ken Stanley Court.

jmanes.roundupnews@gmail.com

complain about your hard work, it’s time they get a reality check and understand that you’re working toward greatness not mediocrity.

And to be great, hard work is essential.

Athletes have three seasons: preseason, regular season and offseason. Now unless there is a bye week, there is no time for time off.

So do yourselves a favor and don’t get fat, or you will get sat (on the bench).

mnodelman.roundupnews@gmail.com

Pierce College women’s basketball coach James Couch said the team is getting better.

“We just were out of sync. We did not have every player out on the court because they are working,” Couch said.

After suffering a 82-56 loss to MiraCosta, the Brahmas took to the court against the Oxnard College Condors the following day.

Couch was not present at the game, but assistant coaches Tessandra Williams and Ron Allen made sure the team played as well as they could.

The first half was close, with only a 4 point difference, but the second resulted in the Condors slowly pulling away.

Oxnard had 14 steals on the Brahmas, which allowed and assisted in their lead. Oxnard’s Jari Davis was a stand out player that caused issues for Pierce. Davis had 13 points, four rebounds and one steal.

Williams was not pleased with how the Brahmas played and Allen thinks the team slowly gave up in the second half after an intense first half.

respinoza.roundupnews@gmail.com

Interview by : Felipe Gamino

Photo by : Marc Dionne

JOSHUA MANES Reporter

@tweeporting

Ezzat Wanas / Roundup

Cassidy Rosso, 11, and Cairo Harell, 20, block the ball hit by Kate Stanjevich, 3, of Golden West College on Saturday, Nov. 26, at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif.

3 @ Cuesta TBA

RICHARD ESPINOZA Reporter

Soccer champs' hopes cut short in 1st-round loss Injuries and circumstances challenged the team throughout

FELIPE GAMINO Sports Editor @fgamino13

The soccer team saw its state championship dreams come to an end on Saturday, Nov. 19 against Ventura, but the coach and players are proud of the season's outcome. Their overall record ended 14-4-3 and in conference 6-1-1, which gave them their 11th title in program history.

As far as their record showed, away games went better, 7-2, than games played at home, 5-2-3.

The soccer team played 20 games and scored 43 goals,10 of those by Leslie Ramirez, their leading goal scorer this year. Ramirez also led in assists with 11.

“I should have scored more than what I currently had, but it is a work in progress,” Ramirez said. “I’m proud that in a way I was able to put this team on my back, and also I’m proud that this team made me work hard for them.”

Ramirez shows gratitude for her coaches because they put their trust in her.

“I’m thankful for them because they believed in me and they gave me the chance to show what I had,” Ramirez said. “Adolfo [Perez] has known me ever since I was a little girl and “Willie” [William Diaz] coached me when I was little. I’m blessed not only to have them as my coaches, but my mentors.”

The Brahmas’ season started strong with five wins, one by forfeit. The team had not conceded any goals until the away game against Moorpark on Friday, Sept. 16 in a 2-1 win.

Following the match against Moorpark, the team began a losing streak. A nil-nil draw against Clovis, followed by two respective losses against Chaffey

and Ventura, was the only negative streak the team had the entire season.

The 4-0 loss against Chaffey was the biggest defeat the Brahmas suffered this season.

In early November, the team had a three-game win streak against Glendale, LA Valley and West LA, followed by a draw against Canyons and a loss in the first round of playoffs against the Pirates.

Coach Adolfo Perez said the

team showed perseverance even though injuries were a main issue. “They overachieved because we played players that were forwards as defenders and defenders that were center forwards, and we adjusted,” Perez said. “We had our goalie in a car accident and everything that could go wrong went wrong, and we were able to go into playoffs, and honestly we should have won on Saturday.”

Brianna Jacobo was the only

goalkeeper during this season prior to her injury. Perez said he doesn’t want to be in that situation again and will attempt to get two more goalies during the offseason.

“It was tough. Then we lost her and then we had to put Karen “Mina” Widmeyer in,” Perez said. “It was difficult and I don’t want one goalkeeper anymore, so I’ll try my best to have two.”

Sara Hernandez is thankful for her coaches and teammates despite the challenges they had

this season.

“The team overcame a lot just as individuals. In the beginning, we lost our leading goal scorer from last season, so it was a bump in the road,” Hernandez said. “We just kept having bumps and it was really difficult, but we managed to win league and I'm proud of what these girls fulfilled.”

Hernandez said the team should have been more clinical about finishing their games because they could have ended with a

bigger scoreline.

“There were a lot of games that we could have won by more goals if we had finished those chances. That was a downfall for us this season,” Hernandez said.

Perez sent a message to his players and thanked them for all their hard work and for the dedication they put into each game.

“The team overcame a lot just as individuals. In the beginning we lost our leading goal scorer from last season, so it was a bump in the road. We just kept having bumps and it was really difficult, but we managed to win league and I'm proud of what these girls fulfilled. ”

- Sara Hernandez Midfielder

“I’m really proud of them. They hung in there, believed in the system and worked really hard,” Perez said.

Hernandez had words of encouragement to those transferring and to those that will be on the team next season.

“To those transferring I hope they have a good future and I wish them all the best," Hernandez said. “For those staying another year, I will tell them to enjoy it because time is going to go by so fast and next thing you know they are going to be transferring and going on to better things.”

fgamino.roundupnews@gmail.com

Graphic by Randi Love

Soccer was eliminated from the playoffs in the first round after a 3-1 loss to Ventura College. The team had nine game that they shutout the other colleges. The players averaged a .573 percentage on shots throughout the season. The team had a better away record than at home.