Volume 127 Fall 2017 Roundup Issue 3

Brahmas run wild

Football evens out record with big win at Shepard Stadium

ARIELLE ZOLEZZI Reporter @ArielleZolezzi

The Brahmas (2-2) returned home for an emotional win against Mt. San Jacinto College (2-1), knocking off the Eagles 49-21 in the first home game for interim head coach James Sims.

The Brahmas came out quick on offense, taking the ball 89yard in two minutes on their first drive of the game, ending with an 8-yard touchdown run from running back Marquise Mickens.

The Eagles responded quickly, scoring on the first play of their next possession on a 90-yard pass play down the sideline.

Mt. San Jacinto followed that drive up with another scoring drive that started at the Pierce 40-yard line, taking a 14-7 lead.

The Brahmas answered right back, driving 80-yards down the field, capping it off with a 1-yard touchdown run by Mickens.

“It was very exciting with the coaching and the plays being called. We just looked like a well-oiled machine,” Mickens said. “We kept our foot on the pedal, and we kept it driving, finishing really strong. As a freshman coming in and scoring, it’s an exciting thing; it’s beautiful.”

Pierce took control of the game in the second quarter, scoring three times and never looking back.

Sterling Salguero scored early in the quarter on a 2-yard run.

Special teams contributed with a blocked punt by Erick Mateo that was recovered at midfield, which led to a touchdown run by Keyshawn Richards. With 36 seconds left in the

first half, Brahmas quarterback Jhakari Harrison narrowly escaped a sack and connected on a 16-yard touchdown pass to Amari Smith, giving the Brahmas a comfortable 35-14 lead going into halftime.

“First half, defensively, we gave up some cheap touchdowns; it should have been 35-0,” defensive coordinator Dylan Flannery said. “The defense that we were running all game, we just installed this week. When you put that into

String theory

Artists use talent to inspire others

Sounds of string instruments floated through the music recital hall as students and enthusiasts filled the room to capacity and listened to the quartet play a myriad of classical and modern songs.

The Kadima String Quartet has led an outreach program for five years funded by grants. They go to elementary, middle and high schools, as well as colleges and other facilities, to perform and teach.

They first introduced themselves through song. Beth Elliott, the group’s viola player, led the discussion among the audience, making both groups engage on and off stage.

“We speak in our teaching, and we are passing it on. We also speak in playing,” Elliott said. “That's actually our motto: we play and we pass it on. That’s what we are here to do.”

State law pushes OER initiative

Academic Senate discusses issues with online courses

A state law will go into effect in January 2018 that will give students the opportunity to choose classes based on open educational resources (OER), a free textbook initiative.

The Academic Senate discussed the cost and benefits of the new OER courses in Monday's meeting as well as concerns that would affect students and faculty.

Sections in the class schedule catalogs of all LACCD schools will now have a symbol that will let students know if the class requires the purchase of more expensive tools, or if it is a part of OER.

“Ideally, it’s what is best for the students. It works for the faculty as well,” Technology Librarian Clay Gediman said. “We are creating a process for understanding, in which faculty members are using OER within the departments. Right now, it is a little vague.”

context, I’m very proud of the way they played. There are just some easy fixes to be made. It takes them a little bit to wake up in the second half, so as a

team, that is something we need to work on.”

“It was very exciting with the coaching and the plays being called. We just looked like a well-oiled machine.”

The quartet played classical pieces by composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Antonio Vivaldi and Johann Sebastian Bach, but also played modern music from television shows and movies like “The Muppets,” “Star Wars” and “Harry Potter.”

The quartet wanted to keep the audience engaged during its performance. To get everyone involved, they allowed the students to choose a song to be performed. The quartet would also perform a song and have the audience figure out what it was.

They also played a song that included a motif, a musical phrase or idea that was played several times, and they had the audience guess how many times each musician played the succession of notes.

Garineh Avakian-Akkus, assistant professor in voice and choral music, is teaching MUS 111, music appreciation, and is organizing the ASO concerts this semester.

“I love doing things like this. I

do this kind of stuff outside of my Pierce position,” Avakian-Akkus said. “This is my first time taking over the ASO concerts.”

Avakian-Akkus hopes to have the concerts in different locations

As the game rolled into the third, quarterback Jonathon Saavedra escaped a sack, getting

the ball to Damaris August for another 16-yard touchdown pass, taking the score to 42-14.

The Eagles answered back with three minutes left in the third quarter, scoring on a 4-yard pass, bringing the score to 42-21 before the fourth.

-Marquise Mickens running back

That was the last glimmer from the Eagles offense, turning the ball over the next three possessions with a fumble, interception and once on downs.

[see Football on pg. 9]

Instructors voiced their concerns about the signup rate for classes that require costly materials. They were concerned that certain classes might be cancelled if most students registered for those that do not require purchasing materials.

Another concern was if an instructor, for whatever reason, can’t teach a course anymore and another teacher takes on the course instead, will the instructor have to teach with the OER materials that the previous instructor was originally going to use, or could they require the materials that they would prefer to use.

[see OER courses on pg. 3]

on campus, such as in the Great Hall, the Performing Arts Theatre and the MUS 3400 recital hall, to accommodate the community and students that may want to attend.

The next concert is a student

recital on Oct. 5. The location is not yet confirmed.

“Communication is key, especially when playing in a group,” Elliott said. “If you aren’t in sync, even with music, the performance

will be all over the place.”

[see Photo Essay on pg. 6]

rlove.roundupnews@gmail.com

Shae Hammond/ Roundup

Damaris August pushes past Mt. San Jancinto's Henry Banks for a win of 49-21 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills Calf. on Sept. 23, 2017.

Randi Love / Roundup

Brian Benning, a professional violinist, preformed with his string quartet for Pierce College in Woodland Hills Calf. on Sept. 21, 2017.

ARIELLE ZOLEZZI Reporter @ArielleZolezzi

RANDI LOVE

Photo Editor @Randi_Love29

From the desk of the Roundup: Editorial

At Pierce College, there are not enough options for those that have food allergies. To eliminate the risk of endangering those on campus, the Brahma Cafe and the cafeteria should take precautionary measures for the many people who have allergies. When enrolling in school and supplying personal information, students should also be asked a question about their dietary needs. Students are asked if they need to be supplied with special assistance

Volume 127, Issue 2:

Page 3: Andrew FortinCaldera was credited as "Reporter", he is Sports Editor

Page 4: India LaRoda's name was misspelled

Page 4: Anna Clark's email was misspelled

Photo Essay:

Damiesha Williams was misrepresented as Damiesha Wlllams

Page 7 Spotlight: Homeless was misspelled

See

for certain disabilities. Though food allergies and disabilities are different, it is something that should be known to all and given some thought.

Cross contamination among different foods can pose a serious risk to having an allergic reaction. For this reason, the cafeteria should have an allergy-free zone to prepare food. Kitchen staff can make sure to thoroughly wash utensils and cooking surfaces, which would make it less likely for a meal to become contaminated

with a certain allergy. When a person works or goes to school full time, they often don't have a chance to plan meals, leading them toward quick snacks, acting as meal replacements. It can be difficult to find options that do not include the common allergies, including gluten, milk and peanuts.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, food allergies affect about 2 percent of adults in the United States, and the number of young people diagnosed with a food

Pro: Latops are legitimate

ANDREW FORTIN-CALDERA Sports Editor @afortincaldera

Computers are a central part of modern life. For students, this is doubly true—we all wrestled with the broken SIS and registered for classes through a computer, we access our coursework in Canvas through a computer, we write our papers on a computer, and so on and so forth. Laptops specifically, with their portability and convenience, are staples of the college environment. They are indispensable tools for academic success, and their use can, and should, extend to the classroom.

In class, during lectures, laptops provide a fantastic alternative to handwriting notes. According to an article from The Wall Street Journal, the average student handwrites notes at 22 words per minute, but can type their notes at 33 words per minute.

When you’re in class with a professor who glides from one topic to the other without pause, the faster pace of a keyboard will keep you from getting lost in a deluge of information. And, speaking for those of us whose penmanship is lacking, I prefer the complete legibility of notes appearing in a word document. It’s much easier to come back to and study from that, than it is to decipher chickenscratch handwriting.

Furthermore, with proper implementation, laptops serve to increase student engagement with course material.

When the professor is kind enough to make their powerpoint lectures available online before class, students can use their laptops to follow along with lessons, without feeling rushed to scribble down

the professor’s information in addition to what appears on slides.

In a study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, it was found that courses which included interactivity between students’ laptops and the lecture subject matter led to students reporting higher than average levels of learning and engagement.

It seems that the primary misgiving regarding the use of laptops in the classroom is that they serve as a gateway to sites such as Facebook and YouTube, which some believe students are more likely to access instead of using their laptops as learning tools. However, if a student brings their laptop to class and is ultimately distracted by it, that does not speak to the ineffectiveness of the laptop as a resource that lends itself to academic success.

Rather, if anything should be taken to task in such a scenario, it should be the student who demonstrates so little investment in their education. To blame the laptop in the case of a distracted student is to absolve the student of any responsibility they have in their personal academic pursuits, disregarding their misuse of a valuable tool.

When used correctly, laptops are undeniably effective resources for students to utilize in their studies. Their usage in the classroom should not be denied because of some pretense that they serve as possible distractions. Rather, with the knowledge that laptops can serve to aid students’ understanding of material, students and professors should make conscious efforts to include laptops in their classrooms to better the learning experience as a whole.

afortincaldera.roundupnews@gmail.com

allergy has risen in the last decade.

Food allergies affect both diet and eating habits and can lead to sickness or allergic reactions. Food intolerances, celiac disease and serious allergies, which can result in anaphylaxis, are a danger to many and should be taken into serious consideration.

Many professors do not know the severity of certain medical issues that students face. Since many allergic reactions pose a threat to physical safety, people with reactions may carry supplies

ANNA CLARK Features Editor @AnnaClarkReport

Laptops are not only a distraction to both teacher and student, they have also been shown to decrease the amount of information a student processes and how such knowledge can be delivered.

Imagine a teacher tells his students to begin taking notes, and throughout the lecture, the students are quiet, considerate and go on to ace the test. The success of these students is contributed to the fact that the classroom has a strict no-laptop policy.

In May 2016, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology conducted a study that involved students using laptops in class. According to their findings, students who used laptops had lower testing scores.

In addition to lowering test scores, laptops take away a student’s ability to focus. These electronics are known for bright lights, loud keyboards, and maintaining the user’s attention, which can lead to a downward spiral of distraction. A classroom, a place of inspired learning, is no place for such devices.

While students claim to be able to center their attention on both the teacher and the laptop in front of them, it is not possible. Humans are known for not being able to focus on two things at once. A prime example of this is distracted driving. The world sees far too much of how distracted driving yields to tragic results.

Another example of distraction, is

of anti-histamines, such as Benadryl, or an EpiPen. In the case of an emergency, students should inform their teachers if they are in need of further medical treatment. Students may not be in a position to help themselves at the time, so informing a faculty member of their reaction and what could happen at the start of the semester, would help everyone involved to better understand a plan of action.

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

distracted learning. Teachers are often known to ask students for their undivided attention. “Eyes and ears, please,” is a saying that can be heard in classrooms across the world, and for good reason. A student should focus all of their five senses on what is important. In an educational environment, learning is most important, not the laptop.

When outside of the classroom, it is necessary to have the skills to engage in everyday activity or conversation without the use of electronics.

In a 2016 article in The Washington Post, California high school teacher Giles Scott wrote about why he doesn't allow electronics, including laptops, in his classroom. Scott addressed teachers by saying that laptops don’t always need to be in constant rotation.

“Education’s task is, of course, to teach them how to safely negotiate this world, but it is also our task to provide them with alternatives,” Scott said. “They need a space away from digital technology.”

When the path of education ends, and it is time for a student to find a job, employers look past the skill of how to work a computer. Practices like eye contact and being able to hold a conversation far outweigh the importance of electronics.

Laptops should not be allowed in the classroom. With electronic-free learning zones, students can focus on the skills they will need for the real world and earn the grades to get them there, all while being distraction free.

aclark.roundupnews@gmail.com

“‘Steven

as the Editorial Board deems not to be a letter. The deadline is 11:59 p.m. the Sunday prior to the issue date.

Editorial Policy: The Pierce College Roundup position is presented only in the editorials.

Cartoons 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.

“Thatshow,‘TheNanny’.I mean,haveyoumetFran Drescher?”

-MichaelRoysner,19, Political Science

Illustration by Beck Shields / Roundup

“It’sfreaky,butthe90smovie ‘IT’.WhenIwasyounger,it excited me.”

-CarlosVergara,19, Undecided

Universe’. I think the show’s animated well. It also hasstupidhumor,whichI like.”

-WilliamGillespie,23, Undecided

Con: Lost cause for Laptops

“‘1Chance2Dance’.Itisthe stupidest,bestthingever.It’sso badandsofunny.Thegirlcan't evendance.” -GenevieveMiereanu,17, Undecided

[OER courses from page 1]

The Academic Senate decided that the course will be terminated and an instructor will open a new section for that class.

Gediman said OER course options should be available for students when they register for classes.

“Say you have a budget for books, and you’ve already spent it on your psychology books, you might look at OER as an option,” Gediman said.

This presents a problem with faculty, Gediman said. Instructors may lose students because they chose a class that would save them more money on course materials.

Gediman also said students may select their professor of preference instead of the OER option.

“They’re not interested in that as much; if they like the instructor they will pay for the class,” Gediman said.

Gediman said OER courses will work well for faculty because they can drop the costs of the required class material, and students benefit from not having those expenses.

“I these courses will be very beneficial to students that are struggling with finance,” said ASO President Efren Lopez. “I’m sure some faculty feel bad that these students have to pay so much for books, but it isn’t good to promote any type of hesitance from what should be happening, which is providing students with resources.”

Jeanette Madueña, who is a counselor and head of Undocumented Student Resources, spoke to the senate about reaching out to the undocumented students. She announced that the deadline to renew the DACA application is October 5.

About 800 undocumented students attend Pierce and this is a problem for these students, according to Madueña.

“We’re doing this in an effort to create a welcoming environment for our students, it’s a very scary time for undocumented students and there’s a lot of anxiety," Madueña said.

azolezzi roundupnews@gmail.com rarenas.roundupnews@gmail.com.

New, sex-y healthcare

Family PACT funds an increase in reproductive and preventative services

ROCIO ARENAS Reporter @rarenas_roundup

An $11 fee is paying more than a visit to check up on a runny nose or scratchy throat.

Starting this semester, the Student Health Center is providing extended services for sexual care to students.

Health Center Director Beth Benne led the effort to provide treatment for reproductive and preventative care to uninsured students through Family PACT. The program, Family Planning, Care, Access and Treatment, is funded by the California government, and is available to eligible recipients.

According Benne, to be eligible, a student must be a California resident registered this semester in LACCD, be uninsured and be within the 200 percentile of the national poverty level.

“Family PACT is MediCal for the south side of your body,” Benne said. “If a student comes in, and if we can see them for a family planning issue, then we can see them for other things. And it’s all at no cost if they qualify.”

The program provides STD and STI testing, contraceptives, treatment, medication and sex education to students for free through the green eligibility cards made with an individual’s information.

These cards can be used at other clinics that operate under Family PACT.

According to Benne, obtaining Family PACT services at the Student Health Center was a process that took 18 months of jumping through government hoops.

The Student Health Center made the Family PACT application accessible to students through its website on Friday, Sept. 22, and services will begin Oct. 1.

Benne said requirements to become eligible for the program may be waived to preserve the patient’s confidentiality. Patients who sign up do not have to disclose personal information.

Kira Shtyeman, a nurse practitioner at Pierce, said that they have tested the program through soft openings, and because it was successful, they are fully incorporating the system.

“We give eligibility on the spot,” Shtyeman said. “The term is for a full year, and then students can re-apply.”

According to Shtyeman, all information gathered in the application is self-reported and confidential. Personal information may be omitted, however students must fill out the paperwork to become eligible to receive their PACT card.

“The Family PACT is new for the entire district, and it was Beth who pushed that through,” Shtyeman said. “We want our students to be successful.”

Debbie Sargent, a nurse practitioner at the Student Health Center, said many young students

Rundown Brahma Blotter

These incidents were reported between Sept. 17 - Sept. 23

Reported by: Vanessa Arredondo, Jose Herera

09/18

• Stolen License Plate

Student reported his license plate was stolen off motorcycle on Sept. 15 around noon.

09/19

•Fight

Two non-students attending a soccer game got into a fight at The Pit around 6:15 p.m.

09/21

•Theft

don’t seek reproductive and preventative care due to fear of lost confidentiality.

However, through Family PACT, patient confidentiality is ensured.

“Anytime you have easier access to care is good, and if we can make it accessible for students to use, then that will make them more apt to use it,” Sargent said. “Family PACT is such a benefit for students.”

rarenas.roundupnews@gmail.com

Student reported that their phone was stolen by an unknown suspect on Sept. 21 between 2:30 - 3 p.m.

Pierce College Sheriff’s Station

General Information:

Emergency: (818) 710 - 4311

Photo illustration by Randi Love and Damiesha Williams

The above illustration is informaiton regarding the $11 health fee and what it covers now under the Family PACT.

Insightful artist finds ‘Direction’

Legally blind student has story and photo published in Pierce literary magazine

The sensation of sight is often coupled with the pursuit of writing— without it, how else could one set such a vivid scene in a book? However, one Pierce College student proves through the written word that some of the clearest and most intensely moving images are created without 20/20 vision.

Alexandra Livolsi, 20, is legally blind; she has no vision in her right eye, and only has peripheral vision in her left eye. Yet, that hasn’t stifled her creativity or her lifelong pursuit of writing.

“I’ve been writing ever since I could,” Livolsi said. “One of my best friends inspired me to write. One day, we were playing this game with dragons, and when I got home, I didn’t want to forget anything. So I wrote it all down, and once I did, I wanted to do some more with it. I actually turned it into my first story.”

Livolsi’s short story “Pearl” is published in the fall 2017 edition of Pierce College’s literary magazine Direction alongside one of her photographs. The story deals with moving on from loss and family bonds.

This passion for writing has manifested itself in both fiction and nonfiction. During her junior year of high school, Livolsi helped to start the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences online newspaper, in addition to working on a novel for the last eight years.

“It’s a very poignant and moving story, though I don’t want to give away the ending,” said Professor Emily Anderson, faculty advisor of Direction. “It’s concise and really powerful. In just a couple pages, she manages to convey a lot of emotion; it’s sad, but also beautiful and happy at the same time.”

Aside from writing, Livolsi

is also studying psychology at Pierce College, which she hopes to utilize in a career working with and aiding disabled children.

Livolsi said that her desire to

work with children stems from her experiences with her own disability.

“I have been through a lot of the surgeries and the medical testing

for disability since I was born,” Livolsi said. “I feel like I could really help children who are going through those same experiences, and help their parents as well.

I think it would be a comfort to know that someone who has gone through that is helping their child.”

Livolsi said that she also

draws inspiration for her goals from her mother, who is a child development specialist. The cases and stories she has heard from her mother about her professional experience with children has led Livolsi to pursue the same rewarding career path.

Livolsi said that her goal in working with children is to impart the knowledge that, regardless of the struggles posed by disabilities, one can achieve their goals if they work hard and not give up.

“I would like them to know that the future has endless possibilities,” Livolsi said.

Lauren Greenberg, a Pierce student, said that her friendship with Livolsi has given her personal insight and has caused her to appreciate her relationships with others a bit more. She said Livolsi has the ability to leave a positive impression on another’s life.

“She’s taught me a lot about myself and the fact that friends are what you make of them; looks aren’t everything,” Greenberg said. “With Alex, you can see that she might look a bit different, but inside, she’s brighter than the sun.” Greenberg said that Livolsi has always been passionate about conveying the message that those affected by disabilities are not defined by their outward appearance. For Livolsi, it is important that those with disabilities are given the support and understanding that they deserve—that someone isn’t treated differently just because they have different abilities. It is her hope that some of what she produces aids her goal to spread compassion.

“I’ve always had the desire to help people. And whether it’s through writing or any other form, I’m happy to do it,” Livolsi said. “Everybody has their struggles, whether they’re physical, emotional or mental. Open-mindedness and kindness go a long way.”

Student brings Pierce issues to the State Capitol

ASO Vice President represents the LA Community College District in Sacramento

I literally know everybody and all the faculty and staff.”

Just three years after coming to the United States, Isha Pasricha, 19, wants to make a difference by representing the student body on campus as the vice president of the Associated Student Organization.

In addition to representing Pierce, Pasricha is also on the Board of Directors for the student senate for all California Community Colleges.

She attends monthly board meetings in Sacramento, proposes resolutions and implements laws that are later taken to the California Community College Chancellor’s Office to be approved and put into effect for all 114 community colleges in the state.

As a political science major, she wants to become a human rights lawyer. According to Pasricha, she is passionate about the field of law because her parents love advocating for the rights of others.

Born in India, English is Pasricha’s second language. She said she is making her parents proud by helping others and being a leader in student government.

“My parents sacrificed so much to get me where I am today,” Pasricha said. “This is the first step toward giving them what they deserve.” Pasricha said she decided to join ASO because she did not feel accomplished after graduating from high school. As vice president, Pasricha is responsible for conducting weekly meetings with faculty and staff, and is also in charge of sending out the agendas for all clubs and organizations.

“I love public speaking, and honestly, I thought I was going to be the lonely kid who doesn’t have friends at all,” Pasricha said. “And now, it’s like the opposite of that.

She helped organize ASO’s most recent collaborate event Football Tailgate with UMOJA and the Extended Opportunities Program and Services (EOP&S).

Football Tailgate promotes the two programs and student athletes.

“Out of all the positions that I am in, this is the one I enjoy the most,” Pasricha said. “Being involved at Pierce College, working around, makes me feel important.”

Lara Conrady, the co-advisor of ASO, has known Pasricha since her start at Pierce. She met her during Go Days when Pasricha was deciding to get involved in clubs and organizations.

“I have seen her grow as a student and as a leader over the past year,” Conrady said. “She is a big student advocate who loves listening to what students need and takes her position very seriously.”

Pasricha wants to motivate students to not be afraid to follow their dreams.

“There is no harm in trying. The sky’s the limit,” Pasricha said. “I wasn’t very confident when I turned in my application, and a year later, I am vice president of the thing I was so scared of.”

According to Pasricha, the Athletic Department contributes a lot to the community at Pierce and attracts many prospective students.

“Our basic goal as the student body government is to make sure that we are making this a campus where students want to come and where they want to participate.

“I feel the Athletic Department is a very important aspect of student life at Pierce. Our goal is to create a community environment, so we attract more people,” Pasricha said. “And family and friends who come to visit these games get to enjoy food and are laughing, and it’s all for free because it’s sponsored by ASO.”

Pasricha is also a peer mentor to Pierce students, helping them with anything school related.

ASO President Efren Lopez knows Pasricha very well and is excited to share an office with her. They will be leading the student government this year. According to Lopez, Pasricha knows how to inspire and motivate others.

“She’s a really good communicator and really knows how to get the idea across. She makes sure ASO is going through everything promised,” Lopez said. Pasricha looks forward to a great year and hopes to help fix the student homeless problem in LACCD. She wants to make sure every student has food and shelter by creating a sustainability program that helps those in need.

“It’s easy to get to success, but it’s harder to maintain that success,” Pasricha said. “But, this is just the beginning.”

YADHIRA GONZALEZ Reporter @yadhiralGS

Samantha Bravo / Roundup

Isha Pasricha, 19, was elected last April as the Pierce College Associated Student Organization Vice President. Pasricha is also a student senator on the Board of Directors for all California Community Colleges. Pasricha poses at Pierce College on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2017 in Woodland Hills, Calif.

ANDREW FORTIN-CALDERA

Sports Editor @afortincaldera

“Out of all the positions that I am in, this is the one I enjoy the most. Personally, emotionally, I benefit from it the most.”

-

Isha Pasricha ASO Vice President

Samantha Bravo / Roundup

Alexandra Livolsi’s short story “Pearl” was published in the fall 2017 edition of Pierce College’s literary magazine Direction alongside one of her photographs. The story deals with moving on from loss and family bonds. Livolsi poses at Pierce College on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017 in Woodland Hills, Calif.

Tailgate prior to football game at 5pm Pierce College vs. San Diego Mesa Football game on Shepard Stadium at

Vintage, market on your calendars

San Fernando Valley residents continue to explore rare treasures and collectables every 4th Sunday of the month

With more than 200 antique collectors gathering to sell their goods, the Topanga Vintage Market offers an eclectic range of treasures, from vintage clothing, furniture and accessories, to giant exotic insects.

Pierce College is hosting the fourth annual fall season Topanga Vintage Market, bringing in antique collectors and vendors to the San Fernando Valley.

The market had more than 200 antique collectors, selling goods such as refurbished antique furniture, vintage clothing and accessories, and giant extoic insects.

The Topanga Vintage Market got its start five years ago at the Westfield Promenade in Woodland Hills, California.

to expand it at Pierce College.

“We outgrew it really fast,” Patrice said. “We’ve been here four years.”

Along the seven aisles of the market, Real Bugs vendor Arthur Winston has been selling taxidermied extoic animals and insects for the past two years at the Topanga Vintage Market.

Winston is inspired by his love for underappreciated creatures like giant moths and two-headed mice. Winston's favorite items to sell are bats.

“Bats, there ain’t nothing in the world like a bat,” Winston said. “We have hanging bats from Jakarta, and they’re wonderful.”

Antique glass bottle collector and vendor Don Wippert began his business when he worked at a landfill.

“I kept seeing all these antiques being thrown away, and I started picking up a few things, went to the swap meets, and started learning about what I was seeing,” Wippert said. “It’s what I collect, so I sell what I collect.”

Wippert said the he finds his treasure while digging at places like Santa Monica.

“The most interesting thing is, if you can dig for bottles, you have to dig in an old trash pit,” Wippert said. “That’s where you find the good glass, the old glass. A lot of the stuff I have is 100 years old or older.”

Topanga Vintage Market

cofounders Lori Rotblatt and Patrice Curedale managed the vintage market while it was at the Westfield Promenade and looked

Melody Dilmore, 64, is a frequent shopper at the Topanga Vintage Market and she’s drawn to the market every season.

“I love antiques, I love history and the people that come here,” Dilmore said. “Even the vendors

have stories. It’s interesting to see what people collect. They’re often pieces of your past, pieces of history that warm your heart.”

Dilmore said many baby boomers have a lot of old goods that are in great condition and

Preview: Meet Your Major Fair

A new path awaits first-year and returning students. However, with more than 60 disciplines to choose from, it may be overwhelming to decide which major to pursue.

To help students maneuver through the majors offered at Pierce, the Career Center and Transfer Center will host the Meet Your Major Fair, an event in which faculty members specializing in different careers educate students about their respective fields.

The fair will be hosted in the Great Hall from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Sept. 27th.

Career Center counselor Wendi Meckler said that students should take this opportunity to learn more about their majors and careers from faculty.

"Students can ask faculty about

coursework within the majors and about the universities they have in mind,” Meckler said. “It’s a good opportunity to ask faculty and staff about career choices that the major could lead to.”

Program specialist Raffi

Kahwajian said that the fair will give students more information about what their prospective major has to offer.

"The truth is, not every student has the same goals or is in the same place in life, or has the same understanding of what the working world is and what career options are out there,”

Kahwajian said. “The Meet Your Major Fair will at least allow students to have some exposure of the variety of possibilities out there.”

The more information students have about various opportunities the better prepared they are, according to Kahwajian.

“When they can finally make a decision, it is not one that they were

pressured into or made without knowing what they were getting into," Kahwajian said.

Peer mentor Rizka Soebandi said it is beneficial to have an open mind and explore unfamiliar majors.

"Students should find majors they are interested in,” Soebandi said. “If family is driving you to be one major, but you aren't passionate about it, you should choose your own major."

Meckler offers sample questions to aid students form ideas on what to ask representatives who will be at the fair.

Sample questions include: What kinds of jobs can I get? What will I study in this major? Should I get a bachelor’s degree to pursue this major? Can you recommend good bachelor-level programs in this area? Are there any certificates and licenses I should get?

stan.roundupnews@gmail.com

“preserve the time.”

Noe Hernandez, 17, also a frequent shopper at the market, enjoys the Italian Ice truck that attends the market.

“There’s other flea markets around, but the really neat vintage

goods are only here,” Hernandez said. “Sometimes I have really nice conversations with the vendors, and you don’t have that personal connection with other flea markets.”

The next Topanga Vintage

Market is on Sunday, Oct. 22. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $3, however, students receive $1 off with valid ID.

STEVEN TAN

Reporter

@stevent_roundup

I love antiques, I love history and the people that come here. Even the vendors have stories.”

-Melody Dilmore Shopper at Vintage Market

Steven Tan/ Roundup

Wendi Meckler career councelor, is one of the organizers for the Meet Your Major Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 27 poses in front of a buildboard in the Student Services building at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif on Friday, Sept. 22, 2017.

N o thin’

but a string thang, baby

The Kadima String Quartet began the fall 2017 ASO concert series, bringing an educational immersive experience.

The concert was Sept. 21 in MUS 3400. The quartet is on tour, and Pierce College was their second stop.

They play through the Kadima Conservatory of Music, and not only perform, but teach the audience music history and theory such as how to hear certain terms and notes in a song.

The play classical and modern music from television shows and movies.

The concert was different than others in the past because, in between songs, one of the musicians would explain why the group chose each song played and also had interactive activities to keep the audience engaged. Previous shows did not allow for the musicians to interact with the audience besides introducing the song and the performers.

Garineh Avakian-Akkus, assistant professor in voice and choral music, is in charge of organizing the fall semester shows. The next ASO concert is a student recital on Thursday, Oct. 5. See the front page for more information.

Photos by Shae Hammond

Copy by Randi Love

Top Right: Beth Elliott and Lynn Angebranndt (left-right), cello and viola players for the Kadima String Quartet, performing during their second stop of their outreach tour at Pierce College in Woodland Hills Calf. on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017.

Middle: Above: A detailed shot of Beth Elliott’s viola while she was speaking to the audience during the ASO concert at Pierce College in Woodland Hills Calf. on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017.

Bottom Right: The Kadima String Quartet, Eric KM Clark, Brian Benning, Lynn Angebranndt and Beth Elliott, perform during the first ASO concert of the semester in MUS 3400 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calf. on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017.

LHM and DACA share a home

Hispanic/Latino heritage month display focuses on citizenship and immigration

CHRIS JUAREZ Reporter @roundupcaj

Pierce focuses on not only the culture, but also the struggles that the Hispanic and Latino population faces as it celebrates Hispanic / Latino Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.

The Pierce College Library / Learning Crossroads has a selection of books on display related to immigration, Hispanic and Latino heritage and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

“I suggested that our Latino Heritage Month display should have a focus on citizenship and immigration,” librarian Mario Macias said.

Pierce College is one of many Hispanic serving institutions according to hacu.net which means many of the students that are enrolled in these schools have identified as Latino or Hispanic.

Pierce student Emely Reyes said celebrating her heritage keeps her culture alive.

“Many immigrants conform to the majority, losing their traditions,” Reyes said. “I think it’s important to recognize our accomplishments.”

Macias said acknowledging your heritage is something everyone should do.

“We should all be in touch with our history, celebrating all the Latino, Hispanic identities,” Macias said. “Pierce does a great

ASO cuts club funds

STEVEN TAN Reporter @stevent_roundup

ASO has partially stopped funding events and club activities at Pierce College following new leadership, which seeks to restructure policies and give new recommendations for what ASO members can do to raise funding.

Clubs on campus will have to continue to partially fund themselves this semester while the ASO upholds its restructured policies on budgeting and financing.

“In a sense, with this ASO, we try to really revamp and live up to what the student government should be at college,” ASO President Efren Lopez said. “There is going to be a lot of structural change in ASO.”

Lopez said that previous leadership was lenient when it came to funding activities; however, the ASO is encouraging clubs to seek other alternatives such as fundraising for their events.

ASO treasurer Matthew Aguilera said, with a focus on budgeting, only significant items that clubs and departments need will be financed.

"We are encouraging clubs and departments to fundraise for particular things they are requesting that don’t correlate with the goals of ASO,” Aguilera said. “Things that are not significant to their cause like food, drinks; we are not catering to students in that sense. We are trying to support them with larger, more significant items.”

The Graphic Literature Club disbanded in spring due to disinterest is rechartering this semester. According to the club's president Patrick Genter, ASO didn't fund them, so they had to fundraise themselves.

"The last time we did a fundraiser was last fall semester.

From there, we made $163 in funds,” Genter said. “What ASO does help us with, is providing the paperwork we need to fill out for fundraising events.”

Lopez said that Pierce clubs can take initiative and ask outside organizations for donations and funds.

job at supporting the cultural identities and diversity of our campus.”

According to Macias, the campus coming together during this time of uncertainty over DACA is necessary. “I went [to the march] to support. Once I started seeing the flyers I tried to promote

them here at the library to build the awareness across campus,” Macias said. “DACA students aren’t just latino, whether you are a DACA student or not, it's good to show that we are aware about these issues, that we are conscious.”

Shigueru Tsuha, Sociology Instructor, said Latino/Hispanic

Heritage Month puts a spotlight on the people around us, making us more aware of our surroundings.

“We are a diverse society, and we are going to continue to become more diverse,” Tsuha said. “You can look around and see ourselves represented in our community, but at the same time

it's a group that gets scapegoated a lot.” “When there’s that kind of negativity going around in society as a whole, I believe it's very easy to feel bad about oneself, and maybe to some degree there’s some self-hatred going on.”

People can't continue to foster the idea of what a Latino is, said Tsuha.

Suicide awareness month

September used to highlight on-campus mental health services

TAYLOR THIBODAUX Reporter @taylorthibbs

Pierce College brings awareness to suicide prevention by dedicating a full week to teach students the signs of mental illness and informing them of on-campus resources. The week of Sept. 11, the Student Health Center was on the Mall raising awareness about suicide prevention.

According to school psychologist Niaz Khani, the Student Health Center provides students with multiple resources to become educated about suicide.

“We went out three times, set up a table, and provided literature,” Khani said. “Basically, we tried to talk to students about the statistics of the past couple of years, and how many people we lost to suicide.”

According to USA Today, one in 12 U.S. college students make a suicide plan every year.

“We informed them about what signs to look for if they have friends or family. If they have ever felt suicidal, we tell them the signs they need to pay attention to, and what

resources are available,” Khani said.

Student Health Center Director

Beth Benne introduced a program that helps students recognize the early signs of possible suicide.

“Kognito is an avatar-based training program that helps students learn to pick up some signs for what they should be looking for. It helps students have open-ended conversations with people they are concerned about. It helps them learn how to refer and help others, whether it be talking to a professor, going to the Student Health Center or bringing the friend to the center,” Benne said.

According to Benne, the program is free.

“Kognito is a program that is available to all community colleges at no cost throughout the state, throughout the spring 2018 semester,” Benne said.

If you are a student, you are able to see a professional therapist up to 6 times throughout the semester at the Student Health Center.

ASO Senator Gisela Tarifa said she had no idea Pierce College offered therapy sessions.

“I wish I had known about this

option. I had to cancel my therapy sessions because I was unable to afford them,” Tarifa said. “Now that I know the Student Health Center offers offers this resource, I will be using it to my advantage.”

Tarifa said she is glad therapy is offered on campus. “This is such an excellent resource because therapy is expensive. As a

“We can't just keep thinking that there's just one history, just one way of thinking, one perspective view of society in general,” said Tsuha. “We have a tendency to homogenize Latinos.”

The DACA march was a sign of students taking matters into their own hands said Tsuha.

“I was really proud with our students, it shows initiative, it shows boldness,” said Tsuha. “As faculty, our main role was to show up and support.”

Macias believes embracing heritage isn’t something that should be saved for one month a year.

“We should be celebrating everybody's identities and cultures throughout the year,” Macias said.

Financial angst

student, I am unable to afford to purchase a professional’s time. It is amazing that the Student Health Center offers this, not only because of affordability, but because other students have nowhere else to go,”

Tarifa said.

ARIELLE

The Financial Aid Office waiting time continues to be a pressing issue for the student body. Students said they wait about two to four hours at a time, and have had to make multiple trips to complete their applications.

According to Director of Financial Aid Anafe Robinson, this is the first time Pierce College has experienced long lines weeks into semester. Robinson said the lines are due to a number of variables, the biggest being the crossover to the new student information system.

“The change to the new system has created new system challenges for us, which takes us longer to actually navigate through the pages to assist the students,” Robinson said. “It isn’t that we don’t know what we are doing, it is that the new system requires us to look through more pages that we didn’t have in prior years.”

Keeping the promise Pierce promise program enrolls 800 new students

CHRIS JUAREZ Reporter @roundupcaj

Though enrollment numbers are down, there is one program that keeps its promise. Pierce was ready to accommodate 600 incoming freshmen this semester as part of the Los Angeles College Promise; however, 800 Promise students enrolled, surpassing expectations.

The Los Angeles College Promise is a government-funded program that provides one tuition-free year of college to high school students planning to enroll in LACCD, dissuading students from entering the workforce instead of pursuing an education as LAUSD graduates.

to allow students to receive a higher education without the financial struggles that come along.

Transfer Center Director Sunday Salter said that to be eligible, students must be LAUSD graduates, complete the summer program and enroll full time in the fall.

Promise students are off to a good start, Dean of Students William Marmolejo said.

“We hope that within this first year, because we've been able to cover their resources and their tuition for the year, that they’re not going to worry about that so much, and they will be able to focus on their studies and have that great college experience,” Marmolejo said.

Another goal for the program is for students to stay on track and graduate in a timely manner, Marmolejo said.

“A lot of our students in the past have taken five to six years to transfer,” he said. “Our hope is that our Promise students are out of here in a couple of years.”

Challenges arise when new programs start, Marmolejo said.

Marmolejo said. “We are a little over 800 in terms of full-time Promise students. That's well above our goal of 600, but that may go up with our late-start classes that we started.”

Marmolejo said he hopes the Promise program receives more funding for books and resources.

Financial aid recipient Sandra Matul said the long wait might be caused by understaffing.

“The line should definitely be moving faster than it does,” Matul said. “It just seems unorganized, and isn’t fair to students.”

According to financial aid employee Carissa Gonzalez, one reason for the delay is that the system keeps logging itself out several times a day while the staff is helping students.

“It’s the first year of a new operating student information system. The promise is a new program. There's been a lot of challenges trying to get a handle on how many students we even have,” Marmolejo said. “In a perfect world, things would go smoothly. These are all things that happen in the first year of these kinds of initiatives, and we don’t expect it to be an ongoing problem.”

“It all depends on the funding,” Marmolejo said. “More students that are full time, equals more funding for the college.”

Center for Academic Success

Director Crystal Kiekel said the Promise program is exactly what Pierce needed.

“We keep trying different browsers like Chrome, Explorer and Firefox, and every time we log in, we can check one thing, but if we try to open a new window or check something new, it logs us out,” Gonzalez said. “Sometimes you’ll have to log back in five times just to help one student.”

The Promise program increases the number of students that attend college after high school. This benefits Los Angeles and California by creating the “City of Graduates,” according to lacollegepromise.org. The purpose is

According to Marmolejo, the students have success coaches that have been trained to show them the ropes.

“Success coaches are Pierce College students who’ve been here for two or three years,” he said. “They can share their knowledge with the Promise student they’re assigned to.”

The number of students in the Promise program could possibly change, according to Marmolejo.

“We planned for 600 Promise students. That was our goal when last year the district said Pierce is going to be a part of the Promise program,”

“The purpose of the College Promise was not to start all new programs, but to create structure and coherence around the wonderful programs that already exist,” Kiekel said. “It’s a foreshadowing of things to come. I believe that Pierce will continue to be a leader in this statewide effort to create a more integrated and coherent student success efforts.”

In addition to these setbacks, every student's situation is different. Robinson said a lot of the questions and concerns the Financial Aid Office receives can’t be answered with a simple yes or no, and usually requires conducting additional research and referring to administrative heads for further guidance.

“I totally understand the frustration with the line, but it is just the way we have to navigate the system,” Robinson said. “We appreciate the patience of the students.” stan.roundupnews@gmail.com

F inancial aid wait times remain long

Photo Illustration: Randi Love

A hand reaching for a pamphlet on display in the Student Health Center put together to show all the information available.

Randi Love/ Roundup

Mario Macias, librarian, poses next to the Latino Heritage Month book display in the Library at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017.

“Pierce does a great job at supporting the cultural identities and diversity of our campus. ”

-Mario Macias librarian

Comp classes cut

Low enrollment causes two class sections to be cancelled

While the cancellation of classes is not uncommon, the loss of two computer science sections could have a lasting effect on both students and teachers.

According to Computer Science Department Chair Natalie Gregoriants, class sections 501 and 541 have been cancelled due to low enrollment.

Lyn Clark, the department chair of Computer Applications and Office Applications, said that the cancellation of CO SCI 501 is not an immediate problem, but CO SCI 541 will affect students more.

“CO SCI 541 is a culminating class needed by all of the students in several programs,” Clark said.

Clark said that CO SCI 541 is needed to obtain an associate degree. The cancellation of the class means students have to wait longer to receive certification to go into the computer technology field.

“It’s difficult when your students need to be successful or move on,” Clark said.

Clark said that the low enrollment is partially due to the bugs in the new student information system. A large portion of the students in the department were ESL students and the new system is more challenging than the last.

Classes will either be replaced or be back in later semesters, Gregoriants added.

Clark said that she may have to substitute a class next semester to make up for CO SCI 541. Clark said this is not a simple fix. She said that the substitutions will be on an individual case-by-case basis depending on the program.

The CAOT and computer science departments at Pierce are also having budget problems. Joe Perret, a full time professor, said that there is a yearly budget that will be lowered if a certain quantity of students is not met every two years. Enrollment numbers keep funds stable, but with the cancellations, there is worry that requirements will not be met this year.

“If you made base, you get a bit more,” Perret said.

According to Perret, not only is the budget hurt, but adjunct professors are also affected.

Perret is a full-time instructor, so he is not worried about not having a class to teach. Adjuncts rely on a large number of classes to get work.

“When the classes are cancelled, the adjuncts don’t get a class, and they suffer as a result,” Perret said.

Perret said a domino effect happens when classes like this fallS through. He said fulltime professors will be given another class, and the adjuncts will be bumped down to lower and fewer classes. ngoldbloom.roundupnews@gmail.com

English lit class takes students to Middle Earth Lord of the (3-)rings

MANNY LUISSI Reporter @mgluissi

Anew perspective on the fantasy and science fiction in “The Lord of the Rings” series comes to Pierce as Professor Marra

Kraemer takes over English 270 in her first semester of its instruction.

The course’s curriculum is based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” and focuses on literary analysis and argument.

Kraemer has taken over the class in place of English instructor

Larry Krikorian, who taught English 270 for several years.

Kraemer brings her passion for “The Lord of the Rings” to her students.

“I am a huge fan. And just to share that with students who are fans or students who are new to it, is really amazing,” Kraemer said. “I’m learning just as much, if not more, than they are from their reactions. It’s like being able to re-read it all over again, which is really cool.”

Kramer’s goal is to teach students to understand and analyze literature, but she also hopes that they can see the literary elements in the stories that she has come to love.

Kraemer is passionate about her work and looks forward to sharing her perspective with her students, and she is excited to receive perspectives from her students as well.

Student and science fiction fan

Connor Drescher is new to “The Lord of the Rings” literature, but is very happy to be in the class. According to Drescher, the enthusiasm Kraemer brings to

her class creates an environment for readers, writers, and fans of fiction to feel challenged while still having fun with unusual subject matter.

“Oh my god, she’s so happy. She’s as happy as I am to be there,” Drescher said. “If i’m in hogs heaven, she’s in hogs heaven.”

Student Maeve Kiely, a theater major with a concentration on costume design, said the class is an environment full of individuals who equally love science fiction and fantasy, student and instructor alike.

“It’s a really great environment because you already know that

Enrollment dips

Enrollment at Pierce College continues to decline, following a downward trend across the Los Angeles Community College District, which dropped 9 percent in enrollment this year.

Enrollment is down 6 percent this semester, a larger drop than the 2016-2017 academic year which had a 2 percent decrease, resulting in a loss of more than 1,500 students.

The trend seems to correlate with the strength of California’s economy. When jobs are available, the returning and non-traditional student population tends to slightly drop, said Enrollment Management Committee (EMC) Co-chair Sunday Salter.

“The economy is doing better now than it was a few years ago,” instructor of Psychology Angela Belden said. “People tend to go back to school when they cannot find jobs. If the economy is good and folks have jobs, they don’t come to college.”

The population downturn affecting Pierce can stem from the surrounding local high schools.

“There are a fewer number of people who are graduating from high school, because there are a fewer number of high-school aged people,” Belden said. There will be no financial impact this academic year or the next. However the effects for the fall 2019/spring 2020 academic year is unknown.

The 1 percent decline in enrollment has affected students and faculty and has caused some low-impacted sections of classes to be cancelled, according to Vice President of Academic Affairs Sheri Berger, and, if the trend continues, it could lead to more cuts.

“A drop in enrollment can lead to section closures in the first week of classes,” Salter said.

“This is, of course, something that the Pierce administration seeks to avoid because it can negatively impact our students and faculty.”

The EMC and the Budget Committee is addressing these issues in meetings.

“We are collaborating with local high schools to continue to spread the word about the wonderful programs and environment that we have to offer here at Pierce,” Salter said.

One collaboration is the Los Angeles College Promise that provides one year of free enrollment to any LACCD college to all full-time qualifying students graduating from the Los Angeles Unified School District and charter high schools.

“Since last year, we have been looking at different strategic marketing plans for Pierce to get more students enrolled,” Berger said. “We don't want to lose enrollment for next year, we are trying to build it back.”

jbelcher.roundupnews@gmail.com

you’re in there with people who have the same passion for it as you,” Kiely said. “Kraemer is an amazing professor who is so thrilled to be teaching what she loves and hearing what we think.” Kraemer loves the subject matter, but also understands that the goal is to teach her students and give them the tools that they need to be successful in the future. Student expectations are consistent with those of other 200-level classes, in which students must have an understanding of concepts in English 101 and English 102 and expect a heavier workload than lower-level classes.

Kraemer’s class is expected to read 150 pages per week, prepare ideas for online and in-class discussions, and do in-class and at-home essays. The class is UC and CSU transferrable.

“I do feel that it is my duty that these students go to their transfer universities with their t’s crossed and their i’s dotted,” Kraemer said.

While the work is enjoyable, Kiely states that the difficulty lies in the reading expectations.

“I’d say it's definitely more difficult than a 101 course based on how much reading there is, and that we’re reading fulllength novels, not just articles or

pieces of literature,” Kiely said. “There is a lot of page count to get through.”

Drescher said that that getting lost in the work suits him best because he loses track of the difficulty due to the intrigue of the course.

“I wouldn’t say it’s difficult, but if it was difficult, I don’t think that I’d notice,” Drescher said. “This is what I am interested in. I live, eat, and breathe science fiction.”

The faculty change brings about a new perspective and teaching style, English Department Chair Donna Accardo said. Pierce College takes pride in the diversity of its professors, she added.

“As the chair, I can say that we are very proud of this amazing faculty,” Accardo said.

The class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:35 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Juniper 0820.

mluissi.roundupnews@gmail.com

“ She’s as happy as I am to be there, If i’m in hogs heaven, she’s in hogs heaven.”

- Connor Drescher student

NOAH GOLDBLOOM Reporter @noahgoldbloom

Titus Littlejohn/ Roundup

Professor Marra Kraemer, showing off the Lord of The Rings trilogy in front of her office, FO 2206, at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Monday, Sept. 25, 2017.

W v Bkrsfield 3-0

W @ Ventura 1-0 Volleyball

L v Grossmont 3-1

W v West LA 3-0

Polo Brahmas Scoreboard

Soccer Football

W v

Water

W @ Taft 1-0

L v Cerritos 1-0

Griffins at the double Women’s volleyball served in four sets

YADHIRA GONZALEZ Reporter

@YadhiraIGS

In a game of instant offense, the women’s volleyball team lost to Grossmont College for the second time this season in the semifinal round of the eighth annual Brahma Invitational.

In the first meeting, Grossmont beat the Brahmas in five sets in the San Diego Mesa Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 9.

The Brahmas started off well, leading the majority of the first set by a few points. Grossmont tied a few times, but at the end, the Brahmas took the set with a score of 25-20.

The second set started and Brahmas and Griffins were having a tight game with good hits and blocks from both sides.

The Brahmas seemed to dominate the game at first, but as the set progressed, they started to fall behind.

The set was tied 2323, but Grossmont College turned the numbers around and won the set 25-23.

Grossmont College won the third set 25-12 as the Brahmas struggled to catch up.

Mardini said the team struggled offensively throughout the game.

“It was not passing or serving, our offense was not there, our setting was not there,” Mardini said.

The fourth and final set gave Grossmont College the victory with a score of 25-18. This win led them to the championship game.

Mardini said the team was not consistent or steady enough to win the game although the team played well overall.

The team didn’t get enough

kills, and Mardini said they are not going to win games if they don’t finish their chances.

“It’s a physical team. We are not going to win if we don’t get kills, and that was the problem, we didn’t get kills enough,” Mardini said.

“It was not passing or serving, our offense was not there, our setting was not there,”

-Nabil Mardini Head Coach

Victoria Estus, who plays as a defensive specialist, said that the team played well even though the game didn’t go in their favor.

“The first two sets were really good,” Estus said.

“We played as Brahmas.”

According to Estus, in the third and fourth set, the Brahmas struggled because of miscommunication between them.

“The goal for the next game is to serve tougher and communicate better,” Estus said.

Sydney Long, the middle blocker, said that in a negative situation they pick each other up and give themselves constructive criticism.

Long describes the Brahmas as feisty, and she said her teammates made it tough for Grossmont on a few occasions.

“We definitely don’t give up easily, even when we do lose, we usually make them fight hard

for a few points,” Long said.

The women’s volleyball team gave a fighting performance, but it was not enough to advance to the finals.

The women’s volleyball team

Brahma of the Week

Marquise Mickens

Football

Running back Freshman

Orlando, Florida

Two touchdowns in the 49-21 win against Mt. San Jacinto.

How do you feel about the win?

“I felt pretty great. It was a great week of practice.

Everyone was on the same page.”

How did it feel to get two touchdowns?

“Coming in as a freshman and scoring was amazing to contribute for the team.”

What is your favorite sports memory?

“Scoring my first touchdown in high school.”

Do you have any pregame rituals?

“I pray before the game.”

Soccer wins on the road

beat Bakersfield College in straight sets to land third place.

The team’s next game is on Wednesday, Sept. 27 against Santa Barbara City College at 6 p.m.

ygonzalez.roundupnews@gmail.com

[Football wins from pg. 1]

“Big players make big plays,” said linebacker Darryl Dolberry, who had an interception late in the fourth quarter. “We did what we were supposed to do, and we knew we could beat them like that. It was a job well done. We just have to go to practice and grind, grind, grind, and hopefully get the same results next week.”

The Brahmas added one more touchdown with six minutes left in the game, on an eightyard pass from Harrison to wide receiver Nate Gedeus bringing the score to 49-21.

The Brahmas gave Sims the traditional Gatorade bath as the final seconds ticked off the clock.

“The key was to come out and continue the intensity and keep playing strong; that was my goal,” Sims said. “I didn’t want to think that the game was already over at 35-14, so I’m glad they came out and continued to play hard.”

Sims said he wants to continue working on cleaning up the personal fouls.

The Brahmas received two personal fouls this game, an improvement from the first home game of the season against LA Southwest College, in which there were 14 between the two teams. Sims wants that number down to zero.

Pierce had a total of 75 offensive plays with an average gain per play of 6.4 yards, with the 482 yards split between the ground and in passing games. Saavedra and Harrison combined for 238 yards passing while the core of running backs added 244 yards.

Pierce will host San Diego Mesa next week for its home game on Sept. 30. Kickoff is at 6 p.m.

azolezzi.roundupnews@gmail.com

FELIPE GAMINO Sports Editor @fgamino13

The soccer team got the win beating Ventura College 1-0 to improve its overall record to 5-21. Forward Gisell Cruz scored the winner as Esmeralda Guzman provided the assist.

Goalkeeper Brianna Jacobo had a stellar performance and made eight saves.

The Brahmas have a road trip on Friday, Sept. 29 at Victor Valley. Kickoff is at 4 p.m.

fgamino.roundupnews@gmail.com

Volleyball 9/27

The women’s volleyball team return to the court as they travel to Santa Barbara City College following their third place finish in the Brahma Invitational.

The team lost in the semifinals against Grossmont College in four sets, but got the win over Bakersfield College in straight sets.

SBCC come from winning the Brahma Invitational beaing Grossmont College in five sets.

The Brahmas are first in the Western State - South conference with a 10-4 overall record.

Preview: Football 9/30

The game begins at 6 p.m.

The football team (2-2) host San Diego Mesa College following their 49-21 win over Mt. San Jacinto College. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. at John Shepard Stadim.

Preview: Football tailgate

a great opportunity for the football players to see the support from people on campus.

them to talk to staff,” Gustavis said. “Not necessarily about academics, but on a personal level, outside of academia.”

When it comes to sporting events on campus, the game is just apart of the fun. Three programs come together to create a free tailgate to show support to the football players at their game this Saturday against San Diego Mesa College.

Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOP&S), UMOJA and Associated Students Organization (ASO) collaborated to create an event that allows students, staff and the community to enjoy themselves, but also get information about the different programs they are a part of.

Each program had an idea in mind and collaborated in efforts to create a bigger event, according to Student Engagement Coordinator and Counselor Lara Conrady Wong.

The tailgate and game are free for students and employees because it is being sponsored by ASO. EOP&S and UOMJA are going to raffle off items at the game. In order to participate in the raffle, you must stop by their booths prior to the game and get a ticket.

They coordinated with the coaches and Moriah Van Norman, athletic director, to have to giveaways during halftime.

“It’s been great working with the new athletic director on this. She’s helped us with finding a good location and making it free admission,” Wong said. Van Norman sees this as

-Moriah Van Norman Athletic Director

“It’s good for the community, the staff, students and our players to have events like this,” Van Norman said. “Football is a great place to start and I can’t wait to see the crowd.”

“We all came up with a tailgate we would host together versus doing tailgates [apart],” Wong said. “We thought we would do one really big awesome one together. Just to show our support for students.”

Latice Gutavis, student services assistant in EOP&S, hopes for people to have fun and learn about each other.

“We want students to come out, to get involved. The major goal for me is for EOPS students to be involved and for

Each group involved has a separate goal, but overall wants to support the athletes on campus and bring awareness to what they offer.

Vice President of ASO Isha Pasricha wants students and their friends and family to feel safe and welcome on campus.

“One of my mentees is an athlete and as a mentor I am concerned if he is enjoying it here and if his family is comfortable enough to come to his games,” Pasricha said.

“So I feel having a tailgate is going to be successful.”

Gustavis said they are hoping to have more collaborated events in the future. They are looking at more football games, basketball and baseball as well.

“We definitely have looked at other sports and we’re looking at spring. We are trying to be strategic with finding out what type of sports and activities that EOPS and UMOJA students are interested in.” Gustavis said.

“ASO of course reaches out to all students. But in particular, we are trying to figure out what other type of sports that UMOJA students, are interested in.”

The tailgate starts at 5:00 p.m. in front of the football stadium prior to the game. Food and drinks will be available and provided by ASO.

Shae Hammond/ Roundup

Merisa Marquez sets the ball for Catelynn Pulido on Ken Stanley Court at Pierce College in Woodland Hills Calf. on Friday, Sept. 22, 2017.

“It’s good for the community, the staff and our students and our players to have events like this,”

Keeping the dream alive

Jennifer Veliz brings her high school success to the college level

YADHIRA GONZALEZ Reporter @YadhiraIGS

Kicking off soccer season with the right foot. Jennifer Veliz is looking to take the soccer team through the right path and score high.

Soccer is a game of angles and trajectory, and the path that brought Jennifer Veliz to Pierce can be easily tracked back to her family.

Coming from Guatemala, the Veliz family has always played soccer. Her older brother, who she considers to be her biggest inspiration, taught her to play, and has been her mentor. Her mother, 50, still plays soccer in local female leagues every week.

Because she is very familyoriented and proud of her background, Veliz said she hopes to one day visit her parent’s homeland Guatemala and visit her grandparents, who have been supportive of her as a student and athlete.

Born in Van Nuys and raised in North Hills, center midfielder Veliz, 17, has played soccer since 4, and is now exposing her talent on the field.

Veliz is tied for the team lead in goals (3) and leads in game-winners (2).

Veliz graduated from Taft High School, where she played soccer three years. It was during her junior year when she was named City Section player of the year, an award her coach told her she had a chance at before the start of the season.

“There’s so many other girls playing in the city, what do you mean?” Veliz said.

Veliz said she never expected to

Nicole Oviedo recalls playing against Veliz when they were both in high school.

“She was definitely a big threat to our team,” Oviedo said. “I can see her going to big places.”

Head coach Adolfo Perez, who has known Veliz since her freshman year at Taft, was not surprised when she was named city player of the year. He knows her qualities as a player and her abilities when it comes to handling a soccer ball.

“She probably has the hardest kick of any girl we’ve ever had here, and that’s saying a lot. She can score from anywhere on the field,” Perez said. “She does so much for us. She’s our future.”

Despite the powerful presence she has on the field, Perez said that Veliz still manages to be a levelheaded and supportive teammate.

“Even as the player that makes the difference in the team and the quiet leader that she is, Veliz is very down to earth and very humble,” Perez said.

In high school, Veliz traveled to Spain with the rest of her high school team. There, she had the opportunity to play against female soccer players in an environment where the sport is dominated and represented by some of the best teams in the world, such as Real Madrid and F.C. Barcelona.

According to Veliz, women’s soccer is often underappreciated, but is taken more seriously in Spain.

“Competition was crazy out there. It was nice to experience that,” Veliz said.

According to Veliz, the connection that she shares with the rest of her team is more important than any individual measure of skill.

“The talent all the girls have is definitely a great factor in this journey, but the chemistry we have is what makes us better,” Veliz

Column: Treat others with respect

FELIPE GAMINO Sports Editor @fgamino13

In this country, we are privileged as citizens to many rights and freedoms. Other governments don’t give the same rights to their people and at times condition them with what their allowed or not allowed to do.

On Friday, President Donald Trump at a rally in Alabama, called National Football League players that don’t stand up when the national anthem plays unpatriotic S.O.B.’s. He added in his statement that those players be fired for not respecting the nation’s flag.

This caused uproar among NFL owners and even commissioner Roger Goodell issued a statement disagreeing with Trump.

At a time when the country is divided on so multiple issues such as DACA, immigration, and healthcare, just to name a few, the country does not need another problem.

The controversy started with Colin Kaepernick who took a knee when the anthem was playing before a 49’ers game. While some supported his decision, others were quick to criticize.

According to an article on ABC 7, more than 200 players took a knee or sat on the bench during the Sunday games.

Others athletes showed solidarity by locking arms and by sitting or taking a knee during the anthem.

for the full story visit: theroundupnews.com

fgamino.roundupnews@gmail.com