EL VAQUERO G L E N D A L E C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E C A M P U S N E W S PA P E R
April 1, 2015
Volume 105 | Number 4
Campus Funk Attack! See page 16
news
FEATURES
sports
Board of Trustees candidates tell their stories.
Exclusive interview with Paul Walker’s sister.
Lady Vaqs tennis wins conference title for the first time.
Page 6-8
Page 13
Page 14
C onnect W ith E l V aq w w w. e l v a q . c o m E l Va q u e r o N e ws p a p e r @ G CC _ E l Va q @ G CC _ E l Va q
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Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR
EL VAQUERO EDITOR IN CHIEF
Agnessa Kasumyan SPORTS EDITOR
Aimee Yeghiayan Beck SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
Anahit Kardzhyan ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Rikard Kohler FEATURE EDITOR
Ally Perkins STAFF Eric Bourse Emiliano Chavez Alexandra Duncan Elie Georges Justin Mathay Jack Morello Danielle Nail Anashen Navasartian Ekaterina Nikitina Mayra Ortiz Jane Pojawa Nicolas Rincon Yu Sugita PRODUCTION MANAGER
Sal Polcino DESIGN ADVISER
Charles Eastman faculty adviser
Sharyn Obsatz sobsatz@glendale.edu (818) 240-1000 ext.5214 advertising
Jeff Smith jsmith@glendale.edu (818) 240-1000, ext.5493
Library Leaps Toward the Future
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ast year, a consultant was hired to examine the library as a public space and make recommendations on how the library might be updated to better serve GCC students. In July of 2014, he completed his report and it is available in the library at the Circulation Desk. Those who use the library on a regular basis, may have noticed some changes as we are working to enact many of the recommendations from this report. The library currently has iPads and Chromebooks available for check out and we hope to provide more access to the latest technological hardware as we move forward. On the upper floor of the library, nine rows of shelves have been removed to create a more
open space. We are moving study carrels into this space to maintain a quiet area for individual study. In the future, we hope to remove the old carrels and replace them with more modern, comfortable furniture. This floor will remain a space for quiet study and will continue to have individual study spaces. Library staff members are currently working to remove the nine shelves located on the main floor of the library between the computers for printing and the computer carrels. This space will become a learning commons where students will have access to computers and a more collaborative space where they will be welcome to work together on projects. The computer carrels near the windows will
participated in the consultation report discussed above and they will be asked for their input again as the library starts to look at furniture and the organizational layout of the research commons and quiet study areas. When the time comes, I will contact ASGCC to request specific representatives to act as student consultants. If you have any comments or suggestions for the library, please write to library@glendale. edu with the words STUDENT COMMENT in the subject line. Sincerely, Eric Hanson Dean, Library and Support Services
Learning
NEWS
Construction Falls Behind As New Project Progresses By Rikard Kohler
EL VAQUERO ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
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o remedy the delays on the construction of the Lab/ College Services building, the college’s administration and the construction contractor have decided to increase labor hours to meet the substantial completion deadline of Dec. 10. At a glance, people walking from the main parking down
toward the campus may believe that the construction of the new building is coming along just fine. However, the truth is that construction is struggling in a battle against the clock. “It is delayed, but we are working with the contractor to implement a recovery schedule,” Director of Facilities and Construction Nelson Oliveira said. “If they do not finish in time, it is possible that there will
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be removed and replaced with modern, comfortable seating and tables. The hope is that the removal of the various old study carrels combined with fresh carpet and paint, will allow more natural light into the library and provide a better environment for studying. We are examining how to provide more electrical outlets and ways to boost wireless internet access as well. Finally, depending on funding, we would like to fill the open space below the dome with couches and armchairs that support comfortable reading and create a place to relax. As the library continues to work in its role as the heart of Glendale Community College, it will need student input to make certain it is done right. Students
Photo by Ekaterina Nikitina
NEW BUILDING HITS THE ROOF: Construction of the Lab/College
Services building has reached the top floor.
be legal ramifications, but we are focusing on finishing on time.” Despite the setback, Oliveira remains optimistic after recovery implements, such as increased construction hours and Saturday shifts that were reached with the contractor. “It is my understanding that the construction is in a recovery mode and we are doing everything in our hands to meet the target date, which is Dec. 10,” Oliveira said. “We hope to populate the building by Spring [2016].” However, the Lab/College Services building is not the only part of campus currently worked being on. The slope facing the administration building, which now is cleared of its vegetation, is undergoing a landscaping project to make it safer, more environmentally friendly and more pleasing to the eye. The project, which costs more than $50,000, will replace the
current drainage and irrigation contraptions with modern, water conservative systems, and add organic mulch and drought resistant plants to the slope. “We are using exactly what needs to be used for the plants to survive,” Oliveira said. “Everything has been thought through very carefully.” Not only are the new water systems conservative but they will also minimize water runoffs onto the sidewalk below, which minimizes the risk of future accidents. Whether it is to update the school’s vegetation or finish the construction of the Lab/ College Services building, Oliveira assured that the college’s administration is on point with the execution of these projects.
On the Cover:
IN THIS ISSUE
Student Services Technician Suzanna Sargsyan leads students, friends and faculty in a choreographed remix of Uptown Funk. Media Arts students were on hand to film the event on Monday at Plaza Vaquero.. Photo by Sal Polcino
News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Rikard Kohler can be reached at rikard.kohler@gmail.com
Special Section. .. . . . . . . 8-9 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11 Entertainment . .. . . . 12-13 Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14 Lifestyles.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
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NEWS
Campus Honors 100th Anniversary of Armenian Genocide By Anahit Kardzhyan
EL VAQUERO SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
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he board of trustees passed a resolution last September that officially recognized April 2015 as a “Month of Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide of 1915.” A series of events and lectures taking place on campus throughout the month will commemorate the centennial of the genocide. History and Political Science Professor Levon Marashlian was initially approached by President David Viar to form a committee that would implement the goals of the resolution. Marashlian invited Sarkis Ghazarian, an academic counselor, and Osheen Keshishian, Extended Opportunities Program and Services counselor, to meet with Viar about the committee. Marashlian, Ghazarian, and Keshishian got a head start on planning the upcoming educational and cultural events. They also decided on the different representatives to include from groups they believed would adequately contribute to the cause. The official committee now consists of Viar, Marashlian, Ghazarian and Keshishian, who continue to be involved with the planning and coordinating, as well as administrative assistant to Viar Ani Keshishian, Board of Trustees member Armine Hacopian, English professor Lara Kartalian, student affairs coordinator Tzoler Oukayan, GCC’s Armenian Students Association President Liza Hakobyan and Vice President Teni Bazikyan. Hoover Zariani from the center for student
involvement and Simon Mirzaian from information technology services are also in the committee. By utilizing resources possessed by the students, faculty and staff on campus, the committee is implementing various programs developed specifically for the occasion in order to carry out the spirit of the resolution. Their plan is to “show that 100 years later, the Armenian people, both here at Glendale College and around the world, are a thriving community,” said Ghazarian. “[Armenians] are involved in a whole range of life’s activities, whether it’s social, economic, or political.” Bazikyan is looking forward to each of the events because they show how far GCC has come in recognizing the genocide since she’s been here. “During the past few years, we’d normally have an event on the Thursday before the 24th and only collaborate with ASGCC, but this year we have month-long events where board members and the college staff are involved,” she said. Ghazarian credits the extensive program to the resolution and said that “without the board [of trustees], it would be hard to have the campus behind you in order to do something like this.” During an interview in September, Osheen mentioned that there would be one event per week for four weeks in April. The official list of events, however, marks that the proceedings land on every Tuesday and Thursday of April, with two in March and another that runs through the first week of May. The campus will be closed
Photo by Manvel Kapukchyan
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL: Armenians and their supporterrs light candles at a vigil held at the Glendale Civic Auditorium on April 23, 2014 to remember those who died in 1915.
for Spring Break (April 11-16), therefore the committee had to condense their plans into a threeweek time period. A link to the full schedule of events is on the home page of the college website at www.glendale. edu/index.aspx?page=6945/ “One of the reasons why it’s important to remember the Armenian Genocide here at GCC is that it is a part of American
history,” Marashlian said. “We rarely see the topic in textbooks, mainly because of political considerations, even though it was a big issue from 1915 to 1927, even though the US National Archives contain some of the most important evidence, even though American Near East Relief raised millions of dollars to save Armenians, even though the issue has, and still does come
up in discussions and debates at the highest levels of American governing circles.” Marashlian will further discuss this issue during his April 9 lecture, “History and Politics of the Armenian Genocide,” in the auditorium.
Anahit Kardzhyan can be reached at anahit.elvaq@gmail.com
Police: Man Attempts to Rob Student on the Main Campus By Jack Morello
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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lendale College police are searching for a man who attempted to rob a student Monday afternoon outside the administration building. “The suspect walked towards the victim, demanded money and pushed the victim. The victim pushed back in defense and refused to give the suspect any money,” according to a campus police report about the attempted robbery at 1:15 p.m. The suspect fled north through
campus. A search by GCC and Glendale police did not locate the suspect. The attempted robbery has surprised campus staff and students. First-year student Emily Escobar said in an interview Tuesday, “Oh my gosh! It’s a little scary.” Escobar, 18, said she’s always with people during the day and doesn’t contemplate safety. Kit Crawford, who works in the social sciences division, said, ”I’m quite surprised by how blatant it was. I wonder if they knew
each other, since it was in broad daylight.” The GCC campus had a total of three robberies in 2011 and 2012, according to the latest Clery report. The Glendale College police bulletin described the suspect as “male, African American, approximately 21-years-old, medium build, short hair, wearing a white or grey t-shirt, grey basketball-style shorts with a black stripe along the seams, sunglasses with orange frames.” Police are asking witnesses or
anyone with information on the suspect to call (818) 551-5205. Police encouraged anyone who is the victim of a crime or who witnesses a crime to report the incident immediately. Dial
9-1-1 for emergencies or use the blue emergency call phones on campus. Jack Morello can be reached at morellobaseball@gmail.com
General safety tips: * Be alert to your surroundings; * Cooperate with a suspect’s demands because because property can be replaced; * Report any unusual or suspicious persons immediately to the college police; * Call campus police at (818) 551-5205 to request a safety escort.
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NEWS
GCC Professor Wins L.A. College District Election By Elie Georges
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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CC political science Professor and Job Placement Center Director Andra Hoffman won Seat 1 in the Los Angeles Community College District elections of March 3. The official results were announced on March 20. Elected to office, Hoffman will serve as a member of the Board of Trustees of the ninecollege Los Angeles Community College District. The primary results of the elections were announced around 1:20 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4. However, mail-in votes were not yet counted for the official results to be determined. Voter turnout was low for the elections with a total of 9.90 percent reporting to the ballot. Francisca Vega, who was running for Seat 1 as well, lost by 1,740 votes. Hoffman received exactly 71,000 votes, which is 35.94 percent. Two other candidates, Mark Isler and Maria “Sokie” Quintero, also ran for Seat 1. Hoffman was endorsed by the Los Angeles Times, the American Federation of Teachers, Los Angeles County Supervisor
Sheila Kuehl, and Los Angeles City Council members Bob Blumenfeld, Felipe Fuentes, Paul Krekorian, and Nury Martinez. She was also endorsed by Los Angeles Community College Trustees Mona Field and Nancy Pearlman. “I’ve been doing campaigns for community college candidates since 1971 and I have never known anybody as qualified for the job as Andra,” said campaign manager Larry Levine. Hoffman held an election night event at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City with family, friends, and representatives from various Democratic Party organizations in attendance. Among the attendees were Glendale College’s Student Development instructors and counselors Ramona Barrio Sotillo and Kevin Meza. Also present was Pearlman, who showed tremendous support for Hoffman. “Andra has been a professor, administrator, and a parent of a community college student,” said Transfer Center Counselor Kevin Meza. “She will be a great addition to the Board of Trustees as she brings in multiple perspectives on the community college experience. She is a
student centered educator who understands the bigger picture of how community college operates.” The first set of counted votes gave Hoffman a head start in the election with over 35 percent of the votes. Then the unofficial results were updated continuously. “Andra has been a friend and a colleague of mine for over 15 years,” said Barrio Sotillo, who is also the division chair of student services. “During that time, I’ve seen her dedication to working with the most under-served students at Glendale Community College... I have no doubt she will serve the students of the LACCD well.” Hoffman has been serving Glendale College’s students for over a decade, particularly through her position in the Job Placement Center, where students, alumni, and faculty can find jobs and internships.Her long history at the college has seen her managing community service and teacher-training programs funded through grants. Hoffman has also been working on one of the college’s accreditation teams and is experienced in education policies. She also has a master’s degree in public administration from Cal
Photo by Ekaterina Nikitina THE WINNER: Student Services Technician Sharis Davoodi and newly elected Andra Hoffman attend a career panel on March 23.
State Northridge. sure that you are in the best place “ I am here for you,” she said in possible.” a message to students. “My door is always open. I will serve you Elie Georges can be reached at eliealexgeorges@gmail.com and I am committed to making
Glendale Police Finish Second in Baker-to-Vegas Relay Race By Aimee Yeghiayan Beck EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR
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ast weekend, the Glendale Police Department placed second in their division in the Baker to Vegas Relay Race, with a final time of 15:54:00. For the 27th year, the Glendale Police Department ran the 120mile relay, split into 20 stages to promote healthy lifestyles in law enforcement and team camaraderie. The Glendale Police Department began training more than six months ago both as a team and individually. Together, the team had training days every other Wednesday at the police department, with runs on Saturdays at the Pasadena Rose Bowl. He explained that each person ran on a different type of terrain, ranging from hills to long distance, and have to train for that specific leg. He personally ran the final leg of the race, which finished at the Hilton Hotel convention center in Las Vegas, which is where all of the runners came together to celebrate their accomplishments. “I was the police chief in the city of Glendora before this and
I ran for them for many years,” Castro said. “I ran different legs of the race in my time there. The last time I ran, two years ago, which was my last year at Glendora, I ran leg 20 for them. This [was] my first time running for the Glendale team and the first time in the history of the department that the police chief has run for the team.” The pressure was high for the entire team. They competed in one of the most competitive divisions against teams from Torrance, Fontana and Huntington Beach. Only the top three teams of each division are recognized on stage, with the top half of each division receiving a mug to commemorate the race. GPD’s goal was to finish in the top three. Many teams run in honor or in memory of other officers. Last year, GPD ran in memory of Christopher Wilke, the son of a city employee that passed away from cancer right before the relay. His family was presented with the baton at a fundraiser this year, an honor given by the team’s captain, Tim Feeley. This year, however, the team is running simply to represent the city. [See Race, page 7]
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NEWS
Challenger Promises Voters a ‘Fresh Perspective’ By Ally Perkins
EL VAQUERO FEATURES EDITOR
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usan Arnall, 50, a candidate for the GCC Board of Trustees, said she knows what students need. She has lived in Glendale for 20 years and has seven children, including five enrolled in the Glendale Unified School District. “I can provide a fresh perspective and a new approach to examining the challenges facing GCC students,” she said in an email interview last week. “I will be a voice advocating for the students’ educational needs, first and foremost.” Arnall, who describes herself as courageous, is on a mission to become the newest member of the Board. If elected, Arnall said she plans to utilize her knowledge as a mother, entrepreneur and lawyer to help students get the most out of their education. “I am dedicated to ensuring a financially stable and vibrant GCC,” she said. With several of her children
already en route to attend the college, she said she wants to ensure that students are getting the education they deserve while they attend. “I want our children to get a quality education at an affordable price. With four year colleges unaffordable for most people today, attending a community college is the smartest way to attain that education without going into debt,” she said. Arnall, who graduated magna cum laude from UCLA’s Department of Theater Arts, is not only an advocate for students getting the education they deserve but also a big believer in the arts. Ten years ago, Arnall created a summer youth program geared towards teaching Shakespeare literature and acting for grades six through 12. “[I get] personal joy at seeing a student put his or her own unique character and expression onto the immortal words of the Bard,” she said. “Hearing those words spoken afresh and seeing the light of understanding in the kids’ eyes and sharing their
passion in that moment is pure joy for me.” In the April 7 election, she is competing against incumbents Vahe Peroomian and Tony Tartaglia for the two seats available. “I am worried that the incumbents’ continued experience will further harm GCC by driving more students away to other community colleges in the area. If you elect the same people, you can expect the same results,” Arnall said. “I think it is crucial that the Board dynamic be interrupted and a fresh, creative approach be taken to address the causes for student dissatisfaction at the college” she said. “With enrollment directly tied to state funding, GCC simply cannot afford to keep the same trustees for another four years.” If elected, she said she will push for more transferable and vocational classes. She stressed the importance of community colleges. “Our children should not be forced to mortgage their lives for
Courtesy of Susan Arnall
FELLOW CANDIDATES: Arnall at an event with Elan Carr, who is running for Los Angeles Board of Supervisors.
an education,” she said. “They should be able to get the classes they need here at home while they save their money to build their dreams.” To date, Arnall’s greatest accomplishment is raising her children to be good citizens, which she mentions is a work in progress.
Arnall is endorsed by the 43rd Assembly District Republican County Central Committee and the Republican Party of Los Angeles County. For more information, visit http://www. susanarnall.com/. Ally Perkins can be reached at ally.perkins@gmail.com
WE START AS STUDENTS WE LEARN BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
At CSU Channel Islands
WE TRAIN IN OUR COMMUNITY
working side-by-side with
& THEN WE TAKE ON THE WORLD
professors, industry experts and professionals is an opportunity for every student. They bring theory into practice. They learn how problems can be solved. These are more than field trips or internships to put on resumes. These are the lessons on which to build careers. RESEARCH: An environmental studies class stops to discuss island environment as part of the California State University Channel Islands (CI) Santa Rosa Island Research Station (SRIRS).
LEARNING THROUGH EXPERIENCE Learn more at go.csuci.edu/gcc
CSU Channel Islands - Take on the World/Research
10” x 6.25” BW
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Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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FEATURES
Board Member Hikes Toward GCC Reelection By Aimee Yeghiayan Beck EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR
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ony Tartaglia thought he was done with politics after running for the Glendale City Council in 2001. However, when there was a resignation on the Glendale Board of Trustees in 2006, he saw it as an opportunity to benefit the college, both through fiscal responsibility and by setting policies. He was appointed to the position in 2007, and has been on the board since. “Politics isn’t my passion, but I saw it as an opportunity to benefit the college,” he said. Tartaglia’s goal on the board is to help bring resources to the college, whether it is through funding or various program opportunities. “I am passionate about the holistic experience for the students.” he said. “We could have the best faculty in the world but if the place looks terrible and trashy and unkept, the students aren’t going to have a good experience.” One of Tartaglia’s largest accomplishments while on the board was the launch of the Verdugo Power Academy. This joint effort between GCC, the Verdugo Workforce Investment Board and Glendale Water and Power has generated over $1 million of additional revenue for the college. In addition, the program has a hiring rate of more than 80 percent. Tartaglia also made the board
more accessible to everyone. By broadcasting the meetings on local cable, it was possible for those who were unable to make the 5:00 p.m. meetings to still keep up with the meetings at home.Being on the college board for so many years, he has seen many different building projects, including the Bhupesh Parikh Health Sciences and Technology Building and the new Lab/ College Services building, come into fruition. His least favorite part of politics, however, is raising money and the campaigning itself. He also dislikes listening to other peoples’ negativity but rises above it. Campaigning, in his opinion, is less about facts and more about individual opinions. When Tartaglia is not at his job as the Regional Affairs Manager for the Southern California Gas Company or working on the school board, his favorite hobby is hiking the local mountains. He has even hiked Yosemite. Fifteen years ago, a friend recommended they hike together, and he has not stopped since, hiking around six miles every weekend. “I had never thought about it and didn’t realize the wealth of beautiful hikes we have,” he said. “We have things that are so magnificent locally that you would only know about if you hike. We have an old abandoned gold mine in the Altadena area that is just fascinating. We have an old hotel that burned down at
Photo provided by Tony Tartaglia
THE HILLS ARE ALIVE: Tony Tartaglia leans against a sign post on the Crescenta Valley Trail leading to Mount Lukin. Tartaglia hikes around six miles a weekend and loves being able to hike locally.
the turn of the century that is up in the Arroyo Mountains.” Tartaglia’s favorite trail is the Deukmjian Wilderness Park. The area was owned by a wine producer through 1933 when a forest fire burned much of the wine making supplies. Currently Glendale Parks and Recreation have opened a vineyard behind the winery, and have begun producing wine again. He loves that it is a combination of history, fun and exercise, three of his favorite things. As a lover of nature, his favorite part of Glendale is that it is nestled against the mountains,
making it part of both the city and the wilderness. As a member of the Glendale Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission, he helps raise money to keep the trails maintained and updated. His love of hiking gives him an added incentive to keep trails cleared. He has served, or is currently serving on, many boards and organizations including the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, the American Red Cross-Glendale Crescenta Valley Chapter, and the Verdugo Woodlands West Homeowners Association. Tartaglia cares about this
community and the college. He said that he has shown through his multiple different projects that he has the experience necessary to help the college grow. He is endorsed by U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, the Glendale NewsPress, Glendale Mayor Zareh Sinanyan, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, the Glendale Teachers Association, and GCC Board of Trustees members Ann Ransford and Armine Hacopian. For more information, visit tonytartaglia.com. Aimee Yeghiayan Beck can be reached at aimeeyeghies@gmail.com
Glendale City Council Candidates Talk to El Vaq By Alexandra Duncan and Eric Bourse EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITERS
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wo city council seats are on the ballot on Tuesday for the Glendale election. Erik Yesayan and Vartan Gharpetian were unable to send their responses in time for publication. What do you hope to accomplish for GCC students?
Paula Devine
“I feel the safety of GCC students is a very critical issue. Crossing Verdugo and driving down Mountain to Verdugo can be very dangerous. Education and awareness is important and I would encourage safety programs for students. I have also spoken
in women’s studies classes at the college, so I feel a guest speaker program on government affairs, running for political office, and the importance of voting are important issues for college students. Meeting and speaking to council members is a wonderful way for government students to experience this “service to community” message. Unfortunately, the council has little to do with budget or funding for GCC, however, we all recognize the importance of having this terrific educational institution in our community.”
Dave Weaver
“As a former president of the Glendale Alumni Association, I am quite familiar with the college. The most important thing
I would like to see happen is the construction of a new facility for bio technology. As you know, your robotics lab is not accredited and it will continue to grow. This city, as well as some other cities, are becoming high tech centers. GCC must be a community college that can turn out students in those areas of biotechnology.”
Evelyne Poghosyan
“One of my initiatives is to create a hi–tech hub in our city, similar to Silicon Valley, as well as supporting currently existing businesses, which will create hand-on internship opportunities for many students. I also plan to initiate “Walk with the Council” weekly walks from City hall, where students will have an opportunity to come and join and be
more involved in city affairs by walking and sharing their ideas and concerns.”
Chahe Keuroghelian
“GCC students need to become part of the process of governance. They need to become involved and we can tie GCC education to internships in the city to help increase students’ participation in and knowledge of city affairs.”
Edith Fuentes
My hope is to see GCC students have a stronger collaboration, coordination and cooperation with the city in terms of doing projects and programs that would benefit the college and the entire city as a whole. The city could have a closer working relationship with the parents, teachers and the GCC
[board of trustees] and different student bodies...It would be nice if [Glendale] works with GCC students and provide career role models in the different fields of business and professions... Show the students how City Hall and different departments work. The students could be the future employees, managers and administrators of the city or other organizations. Let’s have a stronger relationship.” Visit www.elvaq.com for an extended article. Alexandra Duncan can be reached at alexandran.duncan@gmail.com
Eric Bourse can be reached at rmc.edub@gmail.com
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NEWS
Incumbent Focuses His Lens on Glendale College By Agnessa Kasumyan EL VAQUERO Editor IN CHIEF
and Justin Mathay
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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or photographers, capturing the ideal image requires focus, an eye for detail, and composition — the kind that takes what is in front of it and turns it into an expression of art. Board of Trustees President Vahe Peroomian, 50, who is up for reelection, is also a self-trained photographer with an affinity for landscapes, applying the focus required in his artistic craft to his teaching career and leadership of GCC. A full-time physics instructor at USC, Peroomian connects photography to his profession as an educator. “There is a synergy between the two,” he said during an art exhibit fundraiser for the Glendale Youth Alliance, a non-profit organization serving the city’s low-income youth, on March 13. “[I] was explaining to my students how a polarizer changes the scene that you’re photographing and it gets rid of the glare in a lake so you can photograph underneath the water. [It] makes the sky darker and more contrasting, so it is a play between how I photograph and why it works as far as the physics side of it,” he said. Every photograph offers a differen perspective and purpose. He relates each one to the experiences and efforts that went into taking them. Peroomian recalls photographing a church in Armenia just before dawn and the smell of freshly baked bread lingering in the air during that time. “You remember that for the rest of your life,” he said. “Even as the sun finally shines on the
church and you see that amazing light, you take the photo and it’s yours forever. You remember the smell of the bread. But it’s those experiences that stay with me, not necessarily the photograph itself.” Despite his passion for photography, Peroomian said it usually takes the backburner to his family and professional life. However, he applies his patience and perserverance as a photographer in his classrooms. “Right now, at USC, I’m teaching three classes that take about 12 hours of my week and the rest I’ve made available to my students,” he said. “By not turning away students and by making my time available to them, by being patient with them and explaining things, even if it’s for the hundredth time, I’m making sure that they learn.” A 36-year resident of Glendale, Peroomian was first appointed to Glendale College’s Board of Trustees in 2005. He was elected in 2007 and then again in 2011. He is currently up for reelection again, along with incumbent Tony Tartaglia and challenger Susan Arnall. As a trustee, he focuses on “students first,” concerned particularly with accessibility and success. “Without both of those, we are not really satisfying our mission,” he said. “Student access has declined because of the budget cuts we had…” However, a presentation by State Community College Chancellor Brice Harris during his visit earlier in March showed that the numbers are turning around. Peroomian said the board’s goal is to maximize student accessibility to classes so they can graduate or transfer in two years. “We have worked really hard to make GCC as suc-
Photo by Mayra Ortiz
ART FUNDRAISER: GCC Board of Trustees President Vahe Peroomian, running for reelection April 7, offered his photos for auction to benefit the Glendale Youth Alliance on March 13.
cessful as possible,” he said. Glendale College is nine percent above the state average for college transfer rates at 49 percent, according to a 2012-2013 Institutional Effectiveness Report. The report states that the transfer rate was among the highest in its geographical region of 14 colleges, including Santa Monica College, Pierce College, and Pasadena College, ranking tenth out of 111 colleges with available data. One way Peroomian is trying to increase accessibility is through student identification numbers. After trying to help a friend enroll at the college, he realized it takes up to 10 days to even receive an ID. “We are now actively changing that,” he said. “I’ve actually demanded that gets reduced to a matter hours, if not instantly. That would increase our access numbers for students who at the last minute decide to take one course
Glendale’s Cops Finish Second Place in Desert Relay [Race, from page 4] “For me, it is important because it builds camaraderie. One of the mottos I have here is ‘Having Glendale PD pride.’ It is having pride in our organization, everything that we do and the decisions we make. Is this decision a good decision and does it represent the pride that we have working for here?” said Castro. “It is important for me that we are able to show that even though this is a demanding job,
maintaining physical fitness and mental fitness helps us to deal with the stress of the job and deal with the physical demands of the job.” He hopes that GPD running this relay will instill confidence in the community that they have a police department that is willing and capable. The relay itself, however, is a very serious endeavor. Castro commented that the
temperature while running can range from 40 degrees to over 100 degrees. In previous years, the asphalt temperature was so hot that they had to keep running or their shoes would melt on to the asphalt. He said it is all worth it though. “The pain is temporary, but the pride is forever,” Castro said. Aimee Yeghiayan Beck can be reached at aimeeyeghies@gmail.com
or decide that they are ready to start their college education.” Peroomian first joined the board because he realized it was time to give back to the community after living in Glendale for so many years. He is also the president of the board of directors of the Glendale Youth Alliance. “No matter how busy I am, I always have time to give back to the community,” he said. The need to be busy, however, is what drives Peroomian. “That’s something that has come down from my parents,” he said. “…I’ve grown up in a family of people who believed in being busy and being productive.” Peroomian attributes acquiring his doctorate in Physics from UCLA as his biggest accomplishment because it took the most work. While teaching at UCLA between 1999 and 2014, he earned the Department of Phys-
ics and Astronomy Outstanding Teaching Award nine times. In 2003, a research team he was a part of received NASA’s “Group Achievement Award” for contributing to the Geotail mission. “I’m passionate about teaching…I’m passionate about my photography. I’m passionate about my family and I’m very passionate about my wife…,” he said. “Once something grabs my attention, there is no half way.” Peroomian is endorsed by State Sen. Carol Liu, U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, The Glendale News Press, the Glendale Teachers Association, and current b oard members Ann Ransford, Anita QuinonezGabrielian, Armine Hacopian, and Tartaglia. For more information, check out http:// peroomianforgccboard.com/. Agnessa Kasumyan can be reached at elvaquero.eic@gmail.com
Look For More Election Coverage Online For Question & Answer portions of GCC Board of Trustees and Glendale City Council candidates, visit
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EL VAQUERO G L E N D A L E C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E C A M P U S N E W S PA P E R
April 1, 2015 | Special April Fools issue
Volume 105 | Number 4
Evil Incarnate!
Editor is the Devil in Disguise
Danielle Nail can be reached at daniellecnail@yahoo.com
Photoillustration by Jane Pojawa - Fictional story on page 9 written by Danielle Nail and Agnessa Kasumyan.
news
FEATURES
sports
El Vaquero staff pleads no contest in campus wiretapping scandal.
Glendale’s vampires host hoookah blood drive event
‘Gater Wrasslin’ team wins the bronze, but loses an arm.
Page 32
Page 44
Page 56
Contact the Dark Side w w w. e l v a q . c o m E l Va q u e r o N e ws p a p e r @ G CC _ E l Va q @ G CC _ E l Va q
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FEATURES
CAMPUS HEROES: Batman and Robin fight for justice.
Photo Illustration by Anahit Kardzhyan
Speech Heroes Battle Evil Editor By April Pfool
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
Deep inside the GCC construction zone lies a secret lair where the Villainess in Chief, Agnessa Kasumyan, a.k.a Luci Lucifer, a.k.a. She-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, a.k.a. Darth Aggie, a.k.a. the Soul Crusher, and her Muckraker Minions plot their takeover of the entire campus. Meanwhile, across campus, Batman and Robin of the Speech Department plot their resistance. As a young child, Darth Aggie reveled in bossing her older and younger siblings around. Her parents gave in to her every desire. She quickly learned how to control those around her and put it to use in the Glendale College newsroom, using her staff to push her plans of a dictator takeover through a series of articles that brainwash readers into supporting her quest for power. “I’ve always wanted to be a dictator,” she said, laughing maniacally. “People usually think I’m joking when I tell them. But that’s the beauty of it — they laugh but they have now idea that one day I will have full control over their pathetic lives. Our stories are finally convincing them that I am the one true Master/ Ruler/Queen/Sovereign/Emperor of the Universe —make sure you get all of that.” Ally Perkins, a.k.a. Mother Doom, Darth Aggie’s trusty sidekick, has fallen under the spell of her fetus, a.k.a., Fetus of Doom, who has the power of mind control. Fetus of Doom forces Mother Doom to attend all interviews, controlling the responses of sources. “Darth Aggie said if I let her use my fetus for mind control, she would reward me with an endless supply of Snickers candy bars,” Mother Doom
said. “I like Snickers.” Anahit Kardzhyan, a.ka. The Subtweeter a.k.a the Closest Demon Glendale Has to a Kardashian, manipulates audiences through El Vaquero’s social media accounts. The Subtweeter even influenced Mayn Zalik to leave boy band Second Direction through her cunning tweets and convincing Instagram posts. “I hate it when things don’t go my way, so I force people to only see my view,” she said. Darth Aggie later had Kardzhyan locked in a dungeon (with no cell service) for failing to mention her views in the social media takeover. Sharyn Obsatz, the unassuming advisor, a.k.a. the Hapless Hippie, was forced onto the El Vaquero staff. The Muckraker Minions tied her up and The Fetus of Doom has been using her mind control powers to make the Hapless Hippie feed faculty information to the staff. I, The Captive Reporter/April Pfool, have been undercover with El Vaquero for the past year. I infiltrated their system and gained their trust. Last August, Batman (Ira Heffler) and Robin (Robert Cannon) asked me to join the newspaper staff after their suspicions of Darth Aggie and her Muckraker Minions escalated. Batman saw Mother Doom hypnotize a subject. Robin noticed all articles furthered Darth Aggie’s dictatorship. After months of getting them coffee and performing menial office tasks, I jumped at the superhero duo’s suggestion that I go undercover. Darth Aggie seemed harmless at first, but I soon realized she was the devil personified. She deliberately closed doors on her writers’ hands, claiming she was just clumsy. I once saw her bully candy from a toddler at the grocery store. The Fetus is the brains behind
the operation. Capable of great evil, Mother Doom is usually harmless as long as she has her Snickers’ Bar. But she has fallen victim to her baby’s powers. The Subtweeter, who has since been released from the dungeon, is just as dangerous, with her powers of manipulation via social media. Everything she posts online is read and believed by a huge audience. However, Batman and Robin have invested in thousands of cases of Super Socks, giving wearers the power to break readers free from the Fetus’s spell. They plan to outfit their speech and debate teams to join in the fight for justice. “Since Robin and I are the speech and debate coaches, we’re going to battle the evil-doers with rhetoric,” Batman said. “We’re going to hit them with arguments, evidence, facts, statistics, quotations, and style. We will win and we will be victorious.” Batman said El Vaquero doesn’t stand a chance. “Are you kidding? I’m the debate coach,” he said. “We’re going to smother them with their own arguments. That’s how you go after your enemy, that’s how you conquer, and that’s how you win. And best of all, there’s no bloodshed.” Robin was similarly overconfident. “Most people don’t believe in El Vaquero, anyway, because they’re a dictatorship run by the lovechild of Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden... If I catch people reading it, I bound out of the cracks in the walls, and I grab the paper and rip it up in front of them. Then I’ll educate them about real readership, like the LAXpress, a real legitimate publication. That’s the one with all the nude models, right?” Darth Aggie was less than thrilled. “We’re journalists,” she said. “They don’t stand a chance. Evil will prevail.”
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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FEATURES
Female Voices of the Armenian Genocide Finally Heard By Aimee Yeghiayan Beck EL VAQUERO SPORTS EDITOR
T
oo few people have heard the accounts of the Armenian Genocide from the women’s perspective, researchers Doris and Arda Melkonian told a GCC audience on March 26. “Most of the body of the literature about the Armenian Genocide is about the men, their struggles, and their experiences,” Doris said. “Few studies have focused on the survival experiences of females despite the higher percentage of survivors being women and children.” Glendale hosted a Women’s History Month event titled “Women Suffering, Surviving and Succeeding During and After the Armenian Genocide.” The Ottoman Empire killed an estimated 1.5 million people during the genocide, which began April 24, 1915. “We make the future by the decisions we make today, but to make those decisions in an intelligent way, we need to look to our past and see what happened before us,” said history professor Marguerite Renner. “We may decide some of that is okay and we may continue it. We also may look at it and say ‘Never again.’” The Melkonian sisters have read more than 400 of the 800 survivor testimonies collected in the 1970s and 80s by UCLA Profes-
sor of Armenian and Near Eastern History Richard Hovanessian. They described the victims as human beings whose existence were disrupted by unspeakable brutality. The sisters focused on the unique stories of women and children. They surveyed the role women played in the survival of Armenians and their culture. In their studies, the Melkonians discovered that survivors select experiences and share them in various ways. In addition, men and women experience the same situation differently, and use different words and language to share those experiences. Gender differences can be categorized into two sections: women’s vulnerabilities and women’s resources. Their vulnerabilities were often pregnancy, kidnapping and rape, while their resources were creating bonds, nurturing children, marriage and skills. Using video clips and stories they came across during their research, the sisters demonstrated just how strong and resilient the women were. One video showed an Armenian woman recounting the details of sexual harassment toward females. The Melkonians shared many stories of women who rose above their situation, emerging stronger.
Photo provided by the Gedikian Family
SOUVENIRS: The Gedikian passport photos and a purse from Constantinople are the only items left from their journey to America. A Story of Women’s Survival When a town crier announced all Armenian men would be drafted into the Turkish Army, Ardem Abrahamian’s husband, Siragan, had no choice but to leave, never to return. “When this happened, she had us three girls. She didn’t know what to do and wanted to protect us.” said the middle daughter, Alice, during her oral testimony. Ardem put her three daughters, Rose, Alice and Mary, into the homes of three Greek friends. This allowed Ardem to hide in the basement of a church until the genocide was over. Once it was safe, Ardem went to get her children back. Although there were
no problems getting the older two girls back, the family housing Mary, the youngest, did not want to give her up. Ardem agreed to let the family keep her a bit longer while she got back on her feet with Rose and Alice. “The governor was a pretty nice guy, and you could go and claim your property, so [Ardem] claimed her husband’s three [apartment] units and farm. She was smart, because she could read and write in many languages, and could get back the property,” Alice said. Both Ardem and her mother were college educated, a rarity for most women during that time. When Ardem returned again for Mary, the Greek family had
their son run with Mary into a farm. Ardem went to the police and got back her daughter, and even though it left her daughter terrified and crying, she was able to reclaim her. Her mother sold the farm and rented out the apartments before leaving for Constantinople to board a broken Turkish war ship for America. Mary cried the entire way, leaving her eyes red, a sign of pink eye. In those days, pink eye was cause to be sent back. “On that old ship, Mother has taught us to sing ‘Jesus Loves Me,’” Alice said. While going through a medical exam, Ardem dressed the girls in matching sailor outfits and had them sing, allowing them passage through Ellis Island. Back in the Middle East, families made sure to reclaim their culture, including their religion and customs. In America, it was quite the opposite. It was necessary to adopt the American culture and to blend in as much as possible. All three daughters have since passed away. Alice died last January, just after her 100th birthday; however, their stories survive through their testimonies. The eyewitness accounts of survivors allow new generations to learn from their experiences. Aimee Yeghiayan Beck can be reached at aimeeyeghies@gmail.com
Ethnic Mathematics Compares Cultural Teaching Methods By Nicolas Rincon
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
A
n idea about the difference in math skills between countries became a discussion about the contrasts in educational systems Thursday March 19. Thomas Voden, a professor with a doctorate degree in mathematics, hosted the Ethnic Mathematics discussion as part of the Cultural Diversity Lecture Series. “The biggest thing I want people to take from my lecture is that there is more to math than just using symbols and memorizing facts,” he said. Voden began his lecture discussing his approach to ethnic diversity and mathematics. “We wanted to explore differences in students of mathematics over time and between different countries,” he said. “But I chose to focus this talk on the educational system students are raised in.”
The lecture continued and highlighted aspects of math that are otherwise unseen. One slide applied math to art. According to Voden, the mathematical education system in America veers so far away from artistry that Americans do not understand how they can relate to the subject and its concepts. An example of math’s application to art could be seen in a Zoetropes video that showcased 3-D printed sculptures because when rotated, the sculptures would animate. Voden also emphasized the idea that math is everywhere. He said that although math can be used to measure different things, the idea that math is everywhere is more about cognitive abilities than anything else. “It’s about improving your skills of clear, unambiguous communication in any context,” he said. “Math is so much more
Thomas Voden
Photo by Nico Rincon
about language than numbers.” His idea that math is about language and not numbers is the reason he believes there is such a divide between American math skills and the rest of the world. According to Voden, there is too great an emphasis on objective assessments.
“Standardized tests are killing us,” he said. “When we make math about the formulas, facts, and procedures, we lose the battle when students ask us ‘when will I ever use this?’ The most truthful answer is that they will need it in the next math class.” It is a question that students often ask themselves. “It’s so true. Math in middle school is just about learning it,” said student Katherine Alvizures. “You’re never told any real-world situations where it will come up. All we’re told is we’ll need it in the future.” According to Voden, one of the big differences between the American math system and countries like Japan lies in the teaching methods. He said in Japan the method for teaching math is “You, Y’all, We,” and that this method focuses on letting the students solve the problem themselves before any instruction
is given. The practice forces students to problem solve, and then come together on a solution. This is a contrast to his perceived method in America: “I, We, You.” This approach begins with the instruction, and then allows kids to work by themselves. Voden believes that while this method gives results, it is hindering students’ problem-solving abilities. “Our educational system puts far too much emphasis on assessments that measure things that are just not very important,” he said. Although Voden highlighted problems with America’s math educational system, he did see a light at the end of the tunnel. “We have to keep pushing for studies, keep pushing the envelope. It’s a slow game, but we can do it,” he said. Nicolas Rincon can be reached at nicolasrincon@live.com
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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OPINION
Gender Perspective: Roommate Confessionals A Man’s View By Rikard Kohler
EL VAQUERO ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
To live with guys is not only testosterone pumped Mario Kart tournaments, empty fridges and passive aggressive post-its glued to the microwave – although this sums it up quite well. When you stumble upon your future roommates stuck in a crowded elevator and decide to live with them five minutes in, you throw yourself in at the deep end of the pool; however, I really hit the jackpot when it comes to finding roommates. After I decided to leave the ever-closing walls of my childhood home in Sweden, I quickly came to the realization that rent devours a significant part of a person’s wallet. After giving that about a twosecond thought, I saw salvation within roommates. As a quite oblivious person that always tries to see the best in people, I disregarded woes of caution and ended up moving in with two people I only knew from having ridden with them in an elevator together once. Today, I regard these people as two of my closest friends. For the time being, I am living with four guys in a three-bedroom apartment. This living arrangement might seem dreadful to some, but I can, without a doubt, say that it is thrilling and entertaining on so many levels. In this bachelor pad, you could enter a war zone of adult, yet mentally regressed men, shooting small foam bullets from toy guns across the living room at each other in order to decide who will take care of the dishes. Most might say that seems
childish, and that is completely true, but that is what happens when five young men, who just moved out from the comfort of their childhood homes, move in together – they become brothers. However, similar to living at one’s parents’ place, sharing an apartment with others also has its downsides. Imagine a scenario where you come home late and are on the brink of starvation after a rough day, only to be met by a mountain of dishes and an empty fridge. Yet, the only thing more annoying than the fact that you need to scavenge food from the dark corners of the cupboards is that you have no right to blame your fellow roommates since they are equally entitled to the food. Moreover, you might find yourself locked out when your roommates assume you are at home after a night on the town. After desperate attempts to call the already sound asleep roommates, you challenge yourself to climb the tree outside the apartment in order to get onto the balcony, and the hopefully unlocked door there. Obviously the balcony door is locked, and not only are your pants destroyed after some failed, and possibly dangerous, climbing attempts, you also find yourself spending the night on the balcony floor. Scenarios of this nature come with the territory and will, sometimes, result in you projecting anger onto post-it notes later found throughout the common spaces of the apartment. Although annoying moments are bound to happen, the good really does weigh out the bad in the long run, and I can assure that you and your roommates will write history, even if it just turns out to be for your own mind’s autobiography. Rikard Kohler can be reached at rikard.kohler@gmail.com
Illustrations by Yu Sugita
A Woman’s View By Ally Perkins
EL VAQUERO FEATURES EDITOR
To live with girls is not all late night, panty-wearing pillow fights and wine parties — with the good comes the bad. My dream of living five minutes away from the beach came true after answering a Craigslist ad. With visions of tanned skin, morning swims and bonfires, I was blind to the fact my new roomie was a drug addict who was actually evicted, exercising her squatters rights at the time I moved in. My deposit and first month’s rent went to her drug habit. After waking to her standing naked next to my bed talking jibberish, I left. The longest two-weeks of my life. I’ve also been blessed with a “Single, White, Female” moment. A girl I knew from work needed to move, and I needed a roommate. If it’s too good to be true, it usually is. After a few months, my best friend noticed my roommate was looking more and more like me. She cut her hair, dyed it and started mimicking my style. She didn’t stop there. She started
talking like me and formed an unhealthy crush on my boyfriend. She stopped hanging out with everyone else and expected me to do the same. By the time I realized what was happening it was too late. She freaked out when I told her I was leaving. She threatened to kill herself after she accused me of using her. Once she started spreading rumors about me to my employer, I had to quit. A few days later, while she was at work, I packed my things and left. She called me for months after. I never answered and have not talked to her since. Luckily, I learned a few invaluable lessons through those epic roommate fails. Once I started taking the time to understand who I would be living with instead of merely seeing a house by the beach or a convenient situation, I found the most remarkable, funloving, memorable roommates – girls I consider life-long friends. And, as we know ladies, finding good girlfriends is not an easy feat.
Home is suppose to be a sanctuary, not just a place to lay your head and store your stuff. The moral of the story is choose wisely. There is nothing better than coming home from a long day at school and being surrounded by friends who understand you need some quiet time to study, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to vent to, or a night in with a couple bottles of wine and a good old-fashioned pantywearing pillow fight.
Ally Perkins can be reached at ally.perkins@gmail.com
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Wednesday, April 1, 2015
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Shakespeare Returns to College Stage By Justin Mathay
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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he Glendale Community College’s theater arts department strives for success on their re-envisioned interpretation of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” which premieres tomorrow at 8 p.m. in Glendale College’s auditorium. Matt Foyer, the performance instructor/director, shared his insights and expectations for the upcoming play. In the 15 years that Foyer has taught at the college, he directed productions such as “Rhinoceros” by Eugène Ionesco, and “Wait!” by Julie Jensen. In his interpretation of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” Foyer is hopeful that this play has the potential tobecome of one of his most
cherished productions at GCC. “Every play is different and unique because a play is a composite of people,” he said. “Much Ado About Nothing,” talks about the trials, tribulations and redemption of love and deception. Foyer is enthusiastic about this production, for he perceives and envisions this play as “a great story that is essentially a comedy that has transcended time and people.” Foyer said that another aspect of this production that he is enthusiastic about is the idea that consists of “a reinvigoration of a new group of actors experiencing this play for the first time, bringing our interpretation to life.” Suitable casting is among the essential keys in the structure of a story interpretation. The production combines the talent of experienced actors and actors
who are “brand-new.” Foyer sees this as a “a great combination of voices and potential.” The beauty of Shakespeare’s language and storytelling keep the art of theatre alive, or in some cases, reborn, through “the reinvention of story and the fact that these stories can be told over and over again and reinterpreted over and over again,” Foyer said. Two weekends with seven performances, “Much Ado About Nothing” will be displayed on the stage of the auditorium until April 12, Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are available online at GlendaleArts.org or at the GCC Auditorium Box Office. For more information, call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5612. Justin Mathay can be reached at jmathay951@student.glendale.edu
Photo by Jeanette Farr
SHAKESPEARE PRODUCTION: Cast members Angela Thompson, Jared Ogassian and Michael Ashby star in “Much Ado About Nothing.”
French Film Festival Brings Acclaimed Movies to GCC By Emiliano Chavez
Schedule of Events
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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lendale College’s first ever French Film Festival began last Friday. The free event was hosted by the foreign language department and supported by the French Embassy. The college’s French Club helped promote the event by passing out fliers, putting up posters, and selling refreshments before the event. “They were wonderful in promoting the festival,” said Professor Emeritus of French Teresa Cortey. French professor Denis Pra, who coordinated the festival, welcomed everyone as they gathered in Kreider Hall and briefly discussed his passion for French cinema. In his classes, Pra would show clips from French films to give students insight into the culture and language of France. He would show a clip of people greeting each other, noting that in France people greet each other by kissing both cheeks. “We don’t hug,” he said. However, due to copyright laws, he was unable to show films in their entirety, so for some classes he would arrange
Kreider Hall (San Rafael 138) Free Admission
•
Friday, April 3, 2015
2-3:30 p.m: Approved for Adoption (2012) [70 min]
Saturday, April 4, 2015
2-3:30 p.m: Bay of Angels (1963) [90 min] 4-4:30 p.m: French Cooking Demonstration 4:30-5 p.m: pastry tasting from Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro 5-7 p.m: The Attack (2012) [102 min] FRENCH FILMS: “The Women of the 6th Floor” was the festival’s first offering. field trips to see French movies playing in local theaters. However, copyright fees were paid through a grant issued by the French Embassy specifically for the festival. Pra said the festival would not have been possible without the support of professors Cortey, Marguerite Renner (history), JC Moore (sociology), Carley Steiner (media arts), Eric Gans (Professor Emeritus of French and Francophone Studies, UCLA), and Chef Andrew Feldman. Each instructor was in
charge of introducing a film, a condition of the aforementioned grant. Feldman aided with a French cooking demonstration. On Friday, Renner introduced the film, “The Women of the 6th Floor” (2010), directed by Philippe Le Guay, which had English subtitles. The film follows an uptight couple whose lives are changed by their maids. “You’re going to laugh, but when you do ask yourself why you’re laughing,” Renner said. Renner connected the film to Women’s History Month.
Although a comedy, “The Women on the 6th Floor” addresses issues of class differences, gender roles, and ethnicity. The film is about a well-to-do French couple whose life changes when they hire a Spanish maid. Pra chose the movie after he met Le Guay at an American premiere for a different film. “French movies have a different approach that American movies; the French don’t always give you a direct answer,” Pra said. After the screening, Renner opened a discussion about the film
where several students debated the actions and relationships of the characters. “When we study another culture, we see that underneath it all people go through the same struggles and worry about money, class, love, marriage and so on,” Cortey said. The French film festival will continue on Friday starting at 2 p.m. with a screening of the “Approved For Adoption” (2012). Emiliano Chavez can be reached at lanoism@gmail.com
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Walker Remembered in Final Franchise By Danielle Nail
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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aul Walker’s sister said she’s not sure if she’s ready to see “Furious 7” when it hits theaters Friday. The late actor’s younger sister, Ashlie Walker, 38, said she might have to watch the film privately and cry. “The film was finished with the utmost respect for Paul. It will be part of his legacy, and I couldn’t be more proud of him,” Ashlie said. According to the press release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Paul Walker was killed in a solovehicle collision on November 30, 2013 in the city of Santa Clarita. Vin Diesel told CNN he lost his brother in the tragedy. “The relationships you see on film are so real, because when the tragedy happened, I lost my best friend, ” he said. “Furious 7 was a labor of love. It was in some ways the hardest film I’ve ever had to do. It was a very, very personal and important film for us.” Diesel paid tribute to Paul when he named his daughter, born March 16, after him. “I named her Pauline. There’s no other person I was thinking about as I was cutting the umbilical cord. He [Paul] was in the room. I knew he was there and it felt like a way to keep his
memory, a part of my memory, a part of my world,” he said in an interview with the Today Show. The final installment of The Fast and the Furious franchise was set to be released late last year, but after the death of Paul, the cast and crew weren’t sure if they were going to finish the film. “The cast members were truly close and tight knit. The relationships on screen are so real. When you have a ten-year film series, it happens,” Ashlie said. “The cast were the best of friends, they became family. Everyone was broken-hearted and didn’t know if finishing the film was the right thing to do.” After much deliberation, the cast and crew decided finishing the film would be the best way to honor Paul. “Paul had already put so much work and time into the film. The cast did not want all of his hard work to remain unseen,” she said. Tyrese Gibson told MTV that Paul got through 85 percent of “Furious 7.” The remainder of the film was finished with stands-ins. Paul’s brothers, Cody, 26, and Caleb, 37, were asked to finish the movie. “Neither one of them ever intended to be actors, but when it came down to it, they knew it would be the best way to pay their respect to Paul,” Ashlie said. On his Facebook page, Cody
said participating in the film had been a great experience. “It’s been such an overwhelming experience for Caleb and I, and everyone involved in the film has been so incredible,” he said. Cody and Caleb worked close with the cast to finish the film. “It was emotional for them to attempt to fill the shoes of someone they loved and admired so much, but the cast welcomed them with open arms,” Ashlie said. At an advance screening of the film in Los Angeles last week, the cast dedicated the final film to Paul Walker. Gibson told the audience they did the film and the press for Paul. “Three days of press that no one really wanted to do, but we did it. Why? Because Paul’s life is to be celebrated,” he said. The entire Walker family could not have anticipated the success of the Furious franchise. “I don’t think anyone had any idea what this film was going to be. Paul would always talk about how much fun it was, and I think that’s why they kept making more. He loved it,” Ashlie said. “Paul was going to be an actor from day one. He never wanted to do anything else.” Ashlie said Paul loved racing. “Paul went to some of the best racing schools in the country so he could do all his own stunts. Racing was in his blood,” she
Courtesy of Relativity Media
said. “He had such a passion for the speed and cars.” The late actor was also known for his generous spirit. “He couldn’t enjoy success or anything else if he wasn’t helping other people find their success,” she said. He had his own organization called Reach Out Worldwide and it was all funded directly by him. “He put together a team of first responders. They were the first people on the scene after a catastrophic event. He was always there, as well,” Ashlie said. “The entire operation was done quietly because it was done from his heart. It was something our family didn’t want to see die with him.” In January of 2014, Cody left Oregon to continue his brother’s foundation in Southern California. “One of the things I always
admired about my brother was his genuine desire to help others in need. I am honored to join the ROWW team in fulfilling my brother’s legacy and to make sure his spirit and mission lives on,” Cody said to the ROWW foundation. The Walker family was grateful Paul’s organization could continue in their family name. “Paul had a really big heart. He touched so many people and he made our family proud,” Ashlie said. “Our family is so thankful Cody was so willing to keep Paul’s organization and memory alive.” Paul Walker can be seen in his final film, “Furious 7,” when it is released, Friday. “I encourage other people to watch The Fast and the Furious and pay their respects to Paul,” Danielle Nail can be reached at daniellecnail@yahoo.com
SPORTS
Vaquero Men’s Golf Team On Par For Current Season By Ally Perkins
EL VAQUERO FEATURES EDITOR
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CC’s Men’s Golf Team is off to a great start. “We began this season on a much better note than last year,” said Coach Todd Tyni. This season, the team is “3rd and 4th in the conference standing after the first few matches.” Even with an injured player during the March 23rd match, Tyni, with over 25 years coaching experience, isn’t worried. “I know we can turn it around and hopefully qualify for regionals,” he said. “Everyone on the team is very talented, and I am hoping we can peak at the end like we did last year when we took second at our home WSC match at Oakmont CC and third
in our WSC Conference Final.” With an impressive line up, including returning players Tavit Garbarian and Evin Davis, and some promising first year players Robert Eyvazzadeh, Stephen Peterson, Andrew Gowanlock and Nick Diaz, Tyni believes consistency is essential for this year’s team. “We aren’t there yet, but I know we will be. We have ten on the roster, but six that are consistently playing,” he said. If the players are any indication of this season’s success, the men’s golf team are well on their way to regionals. Sophomore Tavit Garbarian, 20, currently has the top average on the team. He almost didn’t make the 2015 roster. After leaving in the middle of
the semester his freshman year in 2013 without properly withdrawing from his classes, Garbarian received all F’s, which made coming back and being eligible for the team virtually impossible. “I had to take all those classes again as retakes, and I had to get really good grades in all of them in order to be eligible,” he said. Last year, Garbarian took 18 units for the Fall semester and 9 units for Winter. “I had my work cut out for me and I really wanted to come back, so I had no choice but to take all those classes.” The last week of winter session was the first league match of this season. Garbarian passed his fall semester, but grades for winter had not been posted. “I literally had to wait on the first hole to get a call from [Alex Leon] the Athletic
Photo by Todd Tyni
TOP GOLFER: Tavit Garbarian swings through a drive off the tee at a recent practice as his Vaquero teammates look on.
Director to see if I was going to be eligible,” he said. “If it was five minutes later, I wouldn’t have been able to play, but he called just in time for me to play that first tournament. It was tough.” With the Vaq’s midway
through the season, Tyni is optimistic about this season’s outcome. “This team is in position to be great, they just need to believe it,” he said. Ally Perkins can be reached at ally.perkins@gmail.com
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SPORTS
Track Seasons Begin to Wind Down Scoreboard R e s u lt s Baseball: March 27: at Bakersfield 6-4 WSC W Men’s Golf: March 23: at Antelope Valley, WSC 6th place Softball: March 29: Ventura Tournament San Diego (8-4 W) Allan Hancock (6-3 L) Men’s Tennis: March 27 -vs Renesselar Polytechic College 8-1 L Track and Field: March 27: WSC Inland Meet at Canyons March 27, 3rd place Women’s Tennis: March 24: at Santa Barbara 6-3 W WSC
Upcoming Baseball: April 2: at Victor Valley College- 2:30 p.m. April 7: vs. Bakersfield College- 6 p.m. April 9: vs. LA Mission College- 2:30 p.m. April 11: at El Cariso Parks vs. LA Mission College- 1 p.m. Men’s Golf: April 6: course TBD- 11 a.m. April 13: at Oakmont CC- time TBD April 20: Course TBD- 7 a.m April 27: at Antelope Valley CC- 7 a.m. Softball: March 19: vs. Citrus College - 2:30 p.m. March 24: vs. College of he Canyons1 p.m. & 3 p.m. March 26: at Santa Monica College2:00 p.m. March 28-29: at Ventura Collegetime TBD Men’s Tennis: April 1: vs. New Mexico Military1 p.m. April 3, 4, and 10: WSC Tournament at Ventura College- time TBD April 23-26: Ojai Tournament at Ojai College- time TBD Track and Field: April 4: Arnie Invitational at S.D Mesa- time TBD April 7-8: SoCal Hep/Dec at S.D Mesa- time TBD April 11: Mt. San Antonio Invitationaltime TBD April 17: WSC Prelims at Ventura College- time TBD Women’s Tennis: April 1: vs. New Mexico Military1 p.m. April 3, 4, 10: Western State Conference Tournament at Ventura.time TBD For more information visit: www.glendale.edu/athletics
By Nicolas Rincon
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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s the season winds down, Coach Eddie Lopez is excited about the direction the men’s and women’s track teams are headed in. The season has resulted in new personal records for several events. “The spread relays have really improved. We are ranked third in the 4x4 1600 relay in Southern Cal,” Lopez said. Other events have also seen improvement as the season has progressed. According to Lopez, the sprinters, the throwers, and the jumpers have made great strides as the teams head toward the Western State Conference Preliminaries on April 17.
“We’re looking forward to conference,” Lopez said. “We need to qualify and if we make the final, we have to score.” Lopez expects a lot from his teams because he understands that the competition is tough. “It’s going to be close between West LA, Canyon, Bakersfield, Cuesta, and us,” he said The increased competition has inspired each athlete to improve at each meet, according to Lopez. Thrower Aisiah Tuiasosopo, 20, has seen her scores steadily improve. Her ability to compete in events like the discus, hammer throw and shotput has Lopez excited for her future. “She’s a Division I athlete and was an All-American last year,” he said. “This year she should win
State Conference in the shot, the hammer and the disc, and be AllAmerican in all three of them.” Aisiah recently broke her records in the discus and the hammer throw by throwing 137 and 145 meters respectively. The high marks have caught the attention of several 4-year universities like Cal Poly Pomona, CSU Northridge, CSU Long Beach and St. Johns, but she has yet to make a decision. “I’m also working with USC and UCLA, but it’s too early to say anything,” Tuiasosopo said. The Birmingham high school alumna is in her second year at GCC and previously played volleyball before joining the track team. “I played volleyball for five
years. It was a lot of fun. I was actually on the team here,” she said. Her passions go beyond the track, as well. “I love to workout. I’m always in the weight room trying to get better,” she said. Tuiasosopo’s strive to improve along with Lopez’s understanding of the game has him excited about how the season will end. “It’s going to be fun,” he said. Ventura College will host the WSC Preliminaries April 17, and Santa Barbara City College will host the WSC Finals April 24.
Nicolas Rincon can be reached at nicolasrincon@live.com
Tennis Players Cause a Racket By Nicolas Rincon
EL VAQUERO STAFF WRITER
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he women’s tennis team finally got over the hump and captured their first Western State Conference Championship after defeating Santa Barbara City College 6-3 March 24. SBCC handed Glendale a rare loss in their first meeting, but the Lady Vaqs rebounded by winning five straight matches leading up to last Tuesday. The winning streak combined with two SBCC losses put both teams at 14-2 overall and set the stage for a winner-take-all match that would decide the 2015 Western State Conference champion. The victory and subsequent championship highlight a remarkable season for the Lady Vaqs, according to Coach Deo Sy. “What the girls have accomplished is an extraordinary feat that does not come around all the time,” Sy said. He believes that this team can go far, but is happy with everything the team has already accomplished. “Remembering where they were when I first met them, to where they are now academically, athletically, physically, and mentally, I believe they have matured and grown as individuals,” he said. Female Athlete of the Week last week, Meredy Gharabegi, 18, has also seen the growth in each
player and herself. “In the beginning we weren’t as together mentally, but we got stronger as the season went along,” she said. According to Sy, the consistent play this season is a result of being responsible and being able to sacrifice, traits he attributes to describe Gharebegi. “Meredy Gharebegi is a hardworking, caring, and sacrificing individual,” he said. “She puts others well-being before hers. She’s an inspiration and has the potential to do great things,” he said. Gharabegi has been playing
tennis since she was three with the assistance of her father. “I’m an only child and I spend a lot of time with my parents,” she said. “My dad played [tennis] when he was younger and he always wanted his child to play.” The Kinesiology major is in her first year at Glendale College after attending Burbank High School and understands the magnitude of her team’s accomplishments. “It feels amazing,” she said. “Knowing that we could get this far after just graduating has meant so much to me.” But the first championship for
the women’s tennis team is more than just a title to Sy. “Winning a WSC title is a privilege, and the girls are honored to accomplish such a great feat,” he said. “As a coach, sports is a tool that is used to push individuals to their limits. If they can overcome these obstacles, then whatever life throws at them doesn’t seem too bad.” Their last regular season match is here today against New Mexico Military at 2 p.m. and postseason play begins Tuesday.. Nicolas Rincon can be reached at nicolasrincon@live.com
Photo Courtesy of GCC Athletic Dept.
TENNIS STARS: The Lady Vaqs have won the first Western State Conference Championship in GCC history.
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Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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Calendar On Campus events
artist and director. April 28 at 12:20 p.m. at Kreider Hall.
Swap Meet — The swap meet is on April 19 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the upper campus parking lot. Free and open to the public. Parking costs $2. For more information, call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5805.
ARMENIAN HISTORY
MEETINGS Board of Trustees Meeting — The fourth meeting of the year is on April 21 at 5 p.m. in Kreider Hall. For information visit: www. glendale.edu/boardoftrustees.
Lecture Los Angeles Writers Series — Poets Dorothy Barresi and Kim Young will read their poems on April 27 in Kreider Hall. Science Lecture Series — Roger Kupelian presents “The Artists Toolkit: Visual Effects Technology.” Kupelian is a visual effects
April is “100 Years Later” at GCC. The college will host various lectures, events, and displays on Armenian history and culture. Free and open to the public. Display — “Armenian Genocide Commemoration Display” runs through April 30 at the library. Literature Panel — A panel discussion on “Armenian Genocide in Literature.” Thursday from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m. in Kreider Hall. Diversity Panel — “Genocides in Context.” Tuesday from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m. in Kreider Hall. History Lecture — “History and Politics of the Armenian Genocide.” April 9 from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Performance — “Armenian Mu-
sical Program.” April 21 from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m. in auditorium. Lecture — “Commemoration of the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide.” April 23 from 12:20 to 1:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Ceremony — “Wreath Laying Ceremony at Armenian Genocide Memorial Plaque.” April 23 from 1:40 to 2 p.m. at Plaza Vaquero.
THEATER Shakespeare — The Theatre Arts Department presents a production of William Shakespeare’s comedy “Much Ado About Nothing.” Performances run Thursday through April 12. Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and April 12 at 2 p.m. No performance on Sunday. Tickets are $12 to $15 and can be purchased at the auditorium box office or online at www.glendalearts.org/ event/much-ado. E.M. Lewis — The Theatre Arts Department presents a production
of E.M. Lewis’ drama “The Infinite Black Suitcase.” The play follows three different families who deal with death over the course of a day. Runs April 30 through May 9 in AU 102. Tickets are $12 to $15 and can be purchased at the auditorium box office or online at www.glendalearts.org/ga-tickets.
MOVIES Friday Flix — A screening of the 1965 Oscar-nominated adventure film, “Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines,” will be shown Friday. The film is directed by Ken Annakin and stars Stuart Whitman and Sarah Miles. The 1939 epic “Grapes of Wrath” will be screened on April 10. The John Ford directed-film stars Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, and John Carradine. The 1959 comedy “Some Like it Hot” will be screened on April 17. The film stars Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon. Mike Petros will facilitate a discussion after the film. Snacks and drinks
are encouraged. Free at 12:30 p.m. in SG 334. French Film Festival — A screening of the 2012 animated memoir “Approved for Adoption” will be shown Friday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. It will be followed by a Q and A with JC Moore. The 1963 drama “Bay of Angels” will be screened on Saturday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. The 2012 drama “The Attack” will be shown from 5 to 7 p.m. All films will be screened at Kreider Hall.
PLANETARIUM Afternoon with the Stars — Students and staff can attend a free lunchtime program highlighting the planetarium’s features. “Life in the Universe” will be presented Thursday and “ Saturn and its Rings” will be presented on April 9 from 12:30 to 1 p.m. in CS 257. For information visit www. glendale.edu/planetarium or call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5275.
Around Town THEATER Glendale Centre Theatre — An adaptation of Norman Krasna’s play “Dear Ruth,” runs Friday through May 9. Showings are Fridays at 8 p.m. with matinees at 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. 324 N. Orange St. General admission tickets are $28. For more information visit www.glendalecentretheatre.com or call (818) 244-TKTS.
MUSIC DJ and Dance — Ignite Dance Workshops’ TV game show spoof “Move It Or Lose It” is a choreographed dance performance by GUSD students in collaboration with a secret celebrity. April 10 at 7 p.m. at the Alex Theatre. 216 N Brand Blvd. Tickets are $8 to $25. For more information visit www.alextheatre.org.
Glendale Noon Concerts — The First Baptist Church of Glendale features classical concerts on the first and third Wednesday of each month. The Los Angeles Horn Trio is featured today at 12:10 p.m. The trio will play compositions from Christian Pezold and Leo Brouwer. Johana Krejci will perform a violin recital with Leos Janacek and Wendy Prober on piano on April 15. Free and open to the public. Located on 209 N. Louise St. in Glendale. For more information call (818) 242-2113. Armenian Music — Michael Avetisyan presents performances of music of the Armenian composer Komitas. April 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Brand Library Art Center. 1601 W. Mountain St.
EXHIBITIONS Photographic Exhibit — “ Work-
ing Women: Images of Female Labor in the Art of Thomas Rowlandson” is on display through April 13 at the Huntington Library. “ The U.S. Constitution and the End of American Slavery” runs through April 20. “Samuel F. B. Morse’s ‘Gallery of the Louvre’ and the Art of Invention” runs through May 4. Admission is $20 for adults and $12 for students. Prices higher on weekends. Visit the library at 1151 Oxford Road in San Marino. Pasadena Art Exhibitions — “Armin Hansen: The Artful Voyage” continues through May 31 at the Pasadena Museum of California Art. “Jim Morphesis: Wounds of Existence” and “Lars Jan: Holoscenes/Quarternary Suite” are also on display through May 31. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors. For more details visit www.pmcaonline.org or call (626) 568-3665
Armenian Genocide — A display commerating the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, “life100,” runs through May 1 at the Brand Library Art Center.
EVENTS Montrose Harvest Market — The Farmer’s Market takes place every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 2300 block of Honolulu Avenue. For information visit www.shopmontrose.com. Genocide Stories — Tigranna Zakaryan hosts speakers from the Armenian, Jewish, Cambodian, Bosnian, and Rwandan communities as they share their experiences as genocide survivors and reestablishing livelihoods in Los Angeles. Live music, art, and refreshments will also be provided. Free and open to the public April 11 from 1 to
4 p.m. Brand Library Art Center. For more information visit www. life100.org. Film Screening — The “life100” event concludes with a screening of the 1968 film “The Color of Pomegranates” at 7 p.m. on April 30. The Sergei Parajanov directed film is an artistic biography of the artist Sayat-Nova. followed by a closing reception for life100. Free admission and open to all. Brand Library & Art Center at 1601 W. Mountain St. For more information visit www. life100.org. Opera Talk — Members of the LA Opera Speakers Bureau will discuss “It Can’t Be An Opera If Nobody Dies!” April 18 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Brand Library & Art Center. Located on 1601 West Mountain Street. For information visit www.brandlibrary.org. Compiled by Eric Bourse
GET YOUR EVENT LISTED • Email details to Elvaqed@gmail.com. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible. on the calendar page • For details call (818) 240-1000, ext. 5349. Deadline is April 24 for the April 29 issue.
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Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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LIFESTYLE
Campus Gets Funky
Photos by Ekaterina Nikitina
SHAKEDOWN: President David Viar, top, joins in on the Uptown Funk event on March 20. Nursing Students Thomas Blythe and Elizabeth Nylander, bottom, share some original dance moves during the Plaza Vaquero reshoot on March 30.
By Rikard Kohler
EL VAQUERO ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
T
o jumpstart the campus from its usual Friday slumber, the ASGCC had students, faculty and even President David Viar shake it down to “Uptown Funk” on March 20. With aspirations to advertise the college through social media as a fun and lively place, Students Services Technician Suzanna Sargsyan and Student Body President Francisco Aguilar set out to create a Glendale College music video for Bruno Mars’ hit song. “We thought of doing something fun like this for the campus and we thought it would be a great way to get students, faculty, staff administrators to collaborate and really just show how fun GCC is,” Sargsyan said. Just before noon more than 35 par-
ticipants gathered at Plaza Vaquero and San Gabriel Plaza to dance for the cameras and bystanders amusement during the two main shoots of the day. Due to the need of camera angles and some ill-timed landscaping to the lawn behind Plaza Vaquero, Sargsyan decided to schedule reshoots, which took place Monday and will take place again on April 7. Students are invited to participate in these electrifying video shoots. “I am a part of the whole college, and it is fun to participate with everybody when we are having a good time.” Viar said. “It is fun to have fun at GCC!” Read the full story at www.elvaq.com Rikard Kohler can be reached at rikard.kohler@gmail.com