CAMPUS EVENTS
MULTICULTURAL CENTER REMODEL PLANNED
COLLEGE PRESIDENT’S ELECTION NIGHT BASH Page 2 CAMPUS NEWS
DE ANZA WINS AWARD FOR ITS INNOVATION
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La Voz Weekly VOLUME 42, ISSUE 6
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
The Voice of De Anza College Students Since 1967
Prop 8 demonstration unrest
Rally for, against gay marriage law heated, turns hostile Audrey Barker LA VOZ NEWS
EVAN DUCHARME/LA VOZ WEEKLY
A student holds up a “Yes on 8” sign while standing above a crowd of demonstrators during the protest in De Anza College’s Main Quad on Oct. 30.
Political protesters, De Anza College students and others, gathered in the Main Quad last Wednesday and Thursday to voice concerns on Proposition 8, a California State ballot initiative that will appear in the upcoming election and which will decide the legality of gay marriage in California. The crowd that rallied on Thursday far outnumbered the group that congregated in front of the De Anza library on Wednesday, and protesters against Proposition 8 far outnumbered those in favor of the ballot initiative. Those against Proposition 8 began to encircle the few students who were holding up “Yes on 8” signs in the Main Quad around noon, holding signs of their own that read “Vote NO on Prop 8.” At one point during the rally, a pro-Proposition 8 activist hit an anti-Proposition 8 protester in the back of the head with his sign. Campus police were called in to help quell the rising threat of violence and to keep a few of the more rowdy protesters in line. The passing of Proposition 8 in November would See PROTEST, Page 8
A mental exercise in Last ditch gig to get voters Student group macroeconomics attempts to defeat Ah, what a glorious time to be an sion of 2001, which ran from March economics instructor (in a sick sort of to November of that year. (Here’s a way). Suddenly, we have found our- chance to clear up a myth – the terrorist attacks on Sept. selves quite popular on 11, 2001, had little, and off campus. It used if anything, to do to be that when people with the recession asked me what I did for of that year.) And a “living,” I used to lie if you don’t reso they’d continue talkmember it, that’s ing with me. Now I lie so not really surpristhey won’t. ing, because the People, we are current2001 recession was ly living in an incredible probably the mildperiod in history; an era est since the end of almost unprecedented of World War II, economic upheaval; what with the economy might be considered the actually squeaking time of a self-inflicted Stephen Zill economic revolution, of Economics for Everyone out a mild increase in growth for the sorts. Face it: when all is said and done, the world as you year. The unemployment rate would know it will never look or be the same eventually climb to 6.4 percent, and though the recovery was somewhat again. Most of you out there can prob- faltering at times – often referred to ably recall our last major economic as a “jobless recovery” (especially downturn – the largely bursting-ofSee ZILL, Page 5 the-dot-com-bubble-induced reces-
PEOPLE
OPINION
Greg Knittle: Mystery teacher
Editorial: Props 2, 4, 6, 8
Profile of the De Anza Professor who often wears Beatles shirts and plays his guitar in class.
Our verdict on the treatment of livestock, crime, abortion rights and gay marriage.
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Page 7
Christine Chavez, granddaughter of labor rights activist Cesar Chavez, speaks at the Oct. 28 Students for Justice rally at De Anza College.
state propositions Alejandro Jimenez LA VOZ NEWS
Activist group Students for Justice hosted a successful rally in an effort to voice their opinion about California State ballot propositions 4, 6 and 8 on Oct. 28. Guest speakers and Students for Justice members voiced their opposition to the propositions, which stand to alter state laws on such things as gay marriage, abortion, and gang and drug related crimes. Many students showed up to watch the event; some out of curiosity, some truly passionate about the issues and others simply eating their lunch in the common gathering place. But if they showed up, they all got to hear Christine Chavez, granddaughter of revered labor leader Cesar Chavez, speak out against the propositions, See CHAVEZ, Page 3
EVAN DUCHARME/LA VOZ WEEKLY
INDEX
CORRECTIONS
Campus Events...................................2 Alert Log...........................................2 People..............................................4 Student Leader of the Week................4 Campus Snapshot...............................5 Opinion.............................................7
Oct. 27, Issue 5
“The Four Steps” mentioned in Love Voz were taken from a lecture by Dr. David Chorjel. This was the fault of La Voz Weekly and the editor, and should in no way reflect upon Shabnam Mahmoudkhan. Missed attributions: Evan DuCharme wrote the opinion “Professors’ political, social ... ” (p. 11); Joaquin Bartra did graphic designs for “Club Day” (p. 1,3), and photos were taken by Evan DuCharme.
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CAMPUS EVENTS
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
CAMPUS EVENTS Happenings around De Anza College Monday, Nov. 3 dasb funding requests due monday, nov. 3, by 4 p.m., student activities office
The 2009-2010 DASB budget applications, available on the DASB Web site at http://www. deanza.edu/dasb/budget, are due today. For information, call Esha Menon at 408-864-8695, John Cognetta at 408-864-8239 or Dennis Shannakian at 408-864-8757.
Tuesday, Nov. 4 College application essay workshop: WRITING PROMPT #2 tuesday, nov. 4, 12:30 - 1:30 & 1:30 - 2:30 p.m., WRC, ATC 309
Help with writing college application essays will be offered at drop-in workshops at the Writing and Reading Center in the Advanced Technlogy Building. Writing and reading tutoring is also available on a drop-in basis.
election night party tuesday, nov. 4, 6 - 9 p.m., campus center
The De Anza community is invited to a special election night event sponsored by the Office of the President. Refreshments will be served. RSVP to Tina Woo at wootina@deanza.edu.
Shlomo artzi in concert tuesday, nov. 4, 8:30 p.m., flint center
Shlomo Artzi, one of the most successful Israeli performers, fuses rock with native Hebrew strains. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster from $61 - $151.
Wednesday, Nov. 5 FREE FLU SHOTS FOR STUDENTS wednesday, NOV. 5, Campus CTR. Lower Level, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Free flu shots will be given to students with DASB cards in a clinic set up outside the lower level of the Campus Center, near the Health Services office, opposite the ATC building.
Thursday, Nov. 6 FREE FLU SHOTS FOR STUDENTS THURSDAY, NOV. 6, Campus CTR. Lower Level, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. See Wednesday, Nov 5 for details.
memorial for professor jean miller thursday, nov. 6, 3:30 - 5 P.m., campus center
A memorial will be held for English Professor Jean Miller, who passed away on Sept. 22 from complications associated with cancer.
V Monday, Nov. 10
COLLEGE REP VISITS
veterans day holiday
Schedule appointments to meet with representatives in the Transfer Center on the 2nd floor of the SCSB or by calling 408-864-8841.
No classes will be held today.
Friday, Nov. 14 Last day to drop with a ‘W’
Students who wish to drop fall quarter classes must do so by today.
ONGOING EVENTS student DIA DE los muertos altar exhibit NOW - tuesday, nov. 11, wrc, atc 309
Puente students have created Dia de los Muertos altars for public viewing. Stop by to check them out. For more information contact Becky Roberts at 408-864-5764. WRC hours are: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesdays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
500 years of powerful latinas DIA DE los muertos altar exhibit NOW - Thursday, Nov. 20, admin bldg. lobby
¡Lead! presents a Dia de los Muertos altar exhibit dedicated to 500 years of powerful Latinas. For more information contact Marc Coronado at 408-864-8409.
FREE TUESDAY LUNCH WITH JIF EVERY TUESDAY, Noon - 1:30 p.m., Sunken Gardens
Come meet fun and interesting students from the De Anza Jews, Israelis and Friends club. A free lunch is provided during JIF’s weekly Tuesday gatherings.
PLANETARIUM SHOWS EVERY SATURDAY through dec. 20, planetarium
Journey to the stars with the Planetarium’s Infinium S Star projector and full-dome digital astronomy and laser light shows. Costs range from $7 - $9. Go to http://www.deanza.edu/ planetarium for a list of shows and times.
Monday, Nov. 3 UC Davis: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. Thursday, Nov. 6 UC Davis: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. UC Santa Cruz: 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. Monday, Nov. 10 UC Davis: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. Tuesday, Nov. 11 Academy of Art University: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Info Table, Main Quad Golden Gate University: 5 - 7 p.m., Info Table, Campus Ctr. Wednesday, Nov. 12 UC Irvine: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. SJSU: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Info Table, Main Quad Thursday, Nov. 13 UC Berkeley: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. University of the Pacific: 1 - 2:30 p.m., Info Table, Campus Ctr. Lobby Monday, Nov. 17 UC Davis: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. Tuesday, Nov. 18 Cogswell Polytechnical College: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Info Table, Campus Center Lobby Wednesday, Nov. 19 UC Santa Cruz: 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., by apt., Transfer Ctr. Cal Poly Pomona: 2 - 5 p.m., by apt. and Info Table, Campus Ctr. Lobby Cal State East Bay: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Info Table, Campus Ctr. Lobby Thursday, Nov. 20 SFSU: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. by apt., Transfer Ctr.
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
MASSAGE THERAPY CLINIC EVERY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY, 6 - 9 P.M., PE 12L & MASSAGE ROOM PE 12U
The Massage Therapy Program clinical class is offering massages every Monday and Wednesday evenings through Dec. 3. Appointment times are at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Cost for students is $10, faculty/staff is $15, the community is $20. To make an appointment call 408-864-5645. For more information see http://www.deanza.edu/ pe/massage/clinic.html.
Let us know!
Send event notices to Happenings@ LaVozDeAnza.com by Wednesday noon preceding the week of publication. Please type “Happenings” in the subject line. La Voz does not guarantee publication. All events take place on the De Anza College campus and are free, unless stated otherwise.
The leaders you elect make decisions that affect you–your job, your health care, your energy costs, your security... and more.
Visit VOTE411.org for all you need to vote in this important election. Vote November 4th.
SKILLS WORKSHOPS
Free study skills workshops are offered throughout the day to interested De Anza students. Pre-registration in L-47 is required. Times are subject to change; please see the L-47 white board for current information and locations of the workshops. Monday, Nov. 3 9:30 a.m.: Anti-Procrastination 12:30 p.m.: Time Management Strategies 2:30 p.m.: Test Taking Tips 3:30 p.m.: Study Skills for Math and Science Tuesday, Nov. 4 10:30 a.m.: Goal-setting and Motivation 11:30 a.m.: Writing and Grammar Web Resources 12:30 p.m.: Tests with Less Stress Wednesday, Nov. 5 2:30 p.m.: Concentration 3:30 p.m.: Editing Skills Thursday, Nov. 6 10:30 a.m.: Sentence Skills 11:30 a.m.: Tests with Less Stress 1:30 p.m.: No Freakin’ Speakin’ Speeches Friday, Nov. 7 8:30 a.m.: Engaging Ethics
ALERTLOG CAMPUS POLICE BURGLARY:
Friday, Oct. 24 Location: Flint Parking Garage, 2nd floor Summary: Burglary occurred yesterday.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT: DISTURBING THE PEACE
Friday, Oct. 24 Location: Soccer Field, Foothill College Summary: Noise; soccer fans out of control.
THEFT: PETTY THEFT UNDER $400
Tuesday, Oct. 28 Location: Advanced Technology Center Summary: No further information available.
ASSAULT AND BATTERY: STUDENT FIGHT
Monday, Oct. 20 Location: Counseling Office - 206 Summary: Two-student fight outside of classroom.
SERVICE: INJURED ANIMAL
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Location: Perimeter Road, Foothill College Summary: Bobcat injured.
THEFT: GRAND THEFT OVER $400
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Location: Campus Bookstore Summary: No further information available.
Election Day Problems? Call Toll Free: 1-866-MYVOTE1
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1-866-OUR-VOTE
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TRAFFIC HIT AND RUN: PROPERTY DAMAGE ONLY
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Location: Flint Parking Garage Summary: No further information available. COMPILED BY Narsu Rao
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
CAMPUS NEWS
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KEN ENG/LA VOZ WEEKLY
De Anza’s new Visual and Performing Arts Center, still under construction, was designed to meet environmentally friendly standards.
And the winner is ... De Anza’s environmentally conscious program wins 2008 Innovation of the Year Award Quan Luong LA VOZ NEWS
LeTICIA LOPEZ/LA VOZ WEEKLY
Award-winning poet and author Ed Pavlic, also a creative writing instructor at the University of Georgia, reads from his newly published work “Winners Have Yet to Be Announced: A Song for Donny Hathaway” on Oct. 15. Pavlic’s other publications include “Paraph of Bone & Other Kinds of Blues” and “Crossroads Modernism”.
De Anza College’s Sustainability Management Plan won the 2008 “Innovation of the Year Award” from the League of Innovation in the Community College. The sustainability plan was awarded based on its quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness. The De Anza Environmental Advisory Committee along with the greater college community collaborated to design the management plan, which was adopted in 2007. The plan, thought to be the first of its kind among California Community Colleges, is meant to place De Anza on track to becoming the first sustainable California community college campus. Emphasis is placed on multiple aspects of the human impact on the environment. It doesn’t limit the scope of environmental thinking to just human impact on air, land and water. Significance is also placed on community vibrancy, environmental stewardship, social equity and financial responsibility. According to the De Anza Web site, the Sustainability Management Plan will fulfill three different points for the campus: Help identify and catalog all of its environmental risks and opportunities, not just those regulated by law; set a frame for prioritizing those risks and
opportunities; and help to systematically apply greater management to the risks and impacts it deems most important, with the goal of reducing them to the minimum extent practical. Since the introduction of the sustainability initiative, De Anza has fulfilled significant environmental efforts and accomplishments. In Fall 2008, De Anza’s Kirsch Center won the 2008 Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design award. “We’re the first community college in the nation to win this award,” said Executive Director of the Kirsch Center Pat Cornely. Other accomplishments include the nonsmoking policy on De Anza campus, the Environmental Studies Department becoming the first endowed chair in Environmental Studies in the California Community College system, the campus wide recycling program, and the Cheeseman Environmental Study Area, which is also the first of its kind in the California Community College system. De Anza College is also committed to using green, renewable materials in all new and renovated campus buildings. The renovation of the multicultural center in 2009 will use recycled materials and paint free of volatile organic compounds materials. Quan Luong is a staff reporter for La Voz Weekly. Contact him at: quanluong@ lavozdeanza.com.
CHAVEZ | Students take stage, speak out on propositions Continued from Page 1 especially Proposition 8. Various campaigns are hitting their home stretch with the fast approaching national election Nov. 4, and Students For Justice were making their final push in an effort to defeat the propositions they see as a threat to equality in California. Over the past few weeks, they have been rallying against the Propositions by informing people about them at a table outside of the Language Arts division offices. This was part of a larger drive to get younger people out to vote on election day and to educate them about the issues, according to Students for Justice. The rally coincided with an informative campaign which took place at the Free Speech stage outside of the Hinson Campus Center. There were Students for Justice flags and banners, along with various home-made posters adorning the stage. The center of the stage was empty except for a microphone and two large speakers at either side. Off to the side of the stage was a table where Students for Justice had placed a bundle of informational brochures and handouts about the proposed law changes. They handed out pamphlets and stickers to those who came. There was a schedule in place to keep track of the day’s guest speakers from the various groups and clubs, but there was no restriction on how
many students could go on stage to speak during the open microphone sessions. Many came up to the stage and expressed their feelings regarding the hotly debated propositions. Some recited poems while others gave their personal opinion. When Chavez took the stage, she told students of her fond memories about San Jose and the South Bay. She told stories about Morgan Hill and of her grandfather’s start in community organization. In her speech, Chavez emphasized that the propositions were discriminatory, particularly Proposition 8. “I am going to fight until the gay community gets the same rights that me and my husband get,” said Chavez. She is confidence that the gay marriage ban will not pass. “We feel very confident that it won’t go through, but if it does, we will be right back at it,” she said. Among those who supported the gay rights movement were members of the immigrant civil rights movement. Many of the participants in the campaign are unable to vote by virtue of being foreign immigrants. Given their legal status, Chavez said, “It is very important to continue to speak, and to educate all communities about these issues, because they will affect you.” Audrey Barker is a staff reporter for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: audreybarker@lavozdeanza.com.
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PEOPLE
PEOPLE
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
Student Leader of the Week Matthew Todd Walker WISE 37 President Major: Psychology Accepted into San Francisco State
Sharon Su LA VOZ NEWS
Growing up in Idaho and working on farms planting potatoes, Matthew Todd Walker experienced a variety of environmental challenges during his childhood. Walker, WISE 37 president, has contributed much to De Anza College’s environmental club since becoming a member in 2006 and a treasurer in 2007. Devoted to acting locally and solving global issues, Walker hopes to fulfill his goal of having a positive impact on campus during his last quarter at De Anza. WISE 37 stands for Working to Institute Sustainable Environment in our 37th parallel. How do you explain WISE37? Walker: WISE 37 wasn’t a club at the start. It was a group in an internship. Students involved in the internship wanted organic and sustainable food options at the campus, the prior reason why they got together and formed a club, WISE 37. And the purpose has stayed the same until
now; we long to get sustainable food from local areas because local foods take fewer resources to get to the destination. What is there to know about this club? W: This club is a great way for students to get involved. It’s helped shape my interests. WISE 37 is steered by all of its members. We help each other to make concrete decisions and move along. What do you like about the club? W: It’s fun. Everyone’s energetic. I like that we work locally to resolve global issues. Why did you want to become the president of WISE 37? W: I wanted to do something that I can feel good about and at the same time benefit people. What are the benefits of being WISE 37 president? W: I hold myself to a higher standard. I try to hold a positive impact on campus, which I consider motivation. I try to be a good student and uphold a good image, which I think is the reason why I was selected as the student leader of the week. How is being president different from being treasurer of the club? W: A world of difference. My
responsibilities include e-mail contacts, keeping the club flowing, and making financial decisions. I’m ultimately responsible for getting things done. What are your prospects for this club? W: I look forward to developed ecosystems like the Cheeseman ESA. The Cheeseman ESA is an area with 12 types of areas, such as a desert area, freshwater marsh and a pond area, grassland, coastal redwoods, etc. Also, working more intimately with the College Environmental Advisory Group, with both faculty and students, is another exciting expectation. We could also work with Pat Cornelly at the Kirsch Center. What are your future plans? W: I plan to get a Ph.D. and become a clinical psychologist. What message do you have for your club members? W: I love my club members. We’re all friends. We truly value our members, and I know they’d all say the same. What message do you have for students? W: Get involved. Be aware of things around you – not just clothes, money and jobs with high wages. Global matters affect you too. The more cooperation, the better the results.
Renovation on De Anza’s Multicultural Center to begin July 1, could last until winter 2010 DE ANZA LA VOZ AD 6.063” x 7”
Bella Yashayev LA VOZ NEWS
De Anza College plans to remodel its Multicultural Center building and surrounding landscape beginning in early 2009.
The renovations will consist of both internal and exterior changes. Walls that currently divide the building in order to create more classroom space will be removed, creating space for meetings rooms, exhibits, and offices. “We lost the space that was used for activities,” says Duane Kubo, Dean
of Intercultural/International Studies Division “We are trying to bring the Multicultural Center back.” The project’s $4,172,568 budget will be coming from the $490.8 million that was allocated to the FoothillDe Anza District by Measure C bond in June, 2006.
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The renovation is also aimed at increasing the availability of leadership activities, such as the Asian American and Native American Pacific Islanders and Latino/a Empowerment at De Anza programs. “We want to make sure we have an adequate and professional space to come in and interact with students,” said Jeanine Hawk, Vice President of Finance and College Services. The project is scheduled to begin July 1, and could last until winter quarter of 2010. While the Multicultural Center is set to expand its meeting room area, classroom space is being significantly reduced. The proposed renovations will decrease the number of classrooms in the Multicultural Center from seven to two. “I am a bit worried about the classroom space,” says Kubo, who explained that the elimination of classrooms in the building will be compensated by other construction projects that were deferred to Measure C or previously to Measure E. “We are hoping the classroom number will remain the same.” The renovation, however, will allow for more gathering space, as some improvements will be made outside of the building. On the western side of the building three new areas will be created. The “I have a dream” area will provide an outdoor classroom for art students. “We may possibly have students do some art work on the concrete wall,” said Hawk. The other two areas, the “Shores of Refuge” and “Peace Plaza,” will serve as an informal gathering place for students to study, rest and associate with each
other between classes. On the Northeastern side of the center, a new entry plaza will be created coupled with a barrier between the parking lot and the structure. Accessibility structures built in accordance with the American Disabilities Association will also be created. Also, a path between the Multicultural center and the newly constructed Visual and Performing Arts Center will be made. The exterior of the new Multicultural Center building is set to match that of the Arts Center, which architects and school officials hope will create a homogeneous look. According to school officials, the renovations will be implemented in accordance with current environmentally friendly and sustainable building practices, as part of De Anza’s own sustainability plan. The college has planned on the new structure being certified “Green” by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Council, a state organization put in place by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger that grades construction projects and structures based on use of natural resources and their impact on the environment. “We will be using recycled materials and organic compound paint,” said Hawk. She went on to say that only trees native to the area will be planted near the center, as the College’s administration does not wish to see a repeat of the massive tree removal project that took place around campus during the summer. Bella Yashayev is a staff reporter for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: bellayashayev@lavozdeanza.com.
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
PEOPLE
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ZILL | You awaken, all is not well with the free market Continued from Page 1 by Democrats) – the unemployment rate would drop back toward four percent, the economy barely missing a beat, and continue to expand until the present time. In other words, imagine a scenario where you slipped into a coma in the late 1990’s. (Author’s note: William Pesek used a similar theme in a recent commentary on Bloomberg.com; but in my defense, I came up with this idea a couple weeks ago. Just ask some of my students. Who’s got the big mouth?) Fortunately, you return to consciousness in 2002. After being updated on all that went on while you were “away,” you would find out that, as for the economy anyway, the “irrational exuberance” of the 1990’s stock market had continued on for a couple more years,
only to see $7 trillion in wealth get eventually, because come on, last wiped out during the crash of 2000 time this coma thing happened, which lasted even longer (contributing to the then, when it came to economic slowdown the economy (except of 2001), but on the for the fact everybody whole, the economy had more expensive pretty much looks the cars and a cell phone same. No big deal. glued to their heads), Now imagine you very little had hapfell into a coma barepened. Nothing really ly over a year ago. changed. Again, one of the So you flip on you first things you would computer to surf for probably want to do information, and after is find out everything a few minutes, you that had gone on while find your head spinyou were out, and af- Stephen Zill ter hitting all the truly Economics for Everyone ning. You think to yourself, have I woken important stuff – like who’s Paris’ new BFF, and the new- up in a parallel universe? Is it 2008 est twist on Lost – you would eventu- or 2028?! You check your fantasy stock portally want to check out what has been going on with the economy. I mean, folio (yes, such things exist) and find
that Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers and Merrill-Lynch (soon to be) are no more. And, that only two of the “bigfive” investment banks still standing are now “holding companies,” which means they can now take on activities previously reserved for commercial banks, and hence the line between commercial and investment banking no longer exists. And for that matter, neither does Wall Street. At least not as you had come to know it. But I thought greed was good! Gordon Gekko, where are you?! You are also dismayed to find that the Fed apparently does not have a magic wand they can simply wave over the economy and all is well again. Yes, not to mention the pouring of liquidity into the banking system and sundry other methods to cash to folks that previously did not have direct access to the central bank’s
CAMPUS SNAPSHOT
KEN ENG/LA VOZ WEEKLY
A female goose picks at its feathers, part of a much larger flock that was caught roaming across the baseball field at De Anza College on Oct. 29.
DA VOICES What De Anza students have to say
Who is your favorite professor at De Anza College and why? “Professor Sal Breiter. He’s easy, fun and energetic.”
“Professor Lan Tau. Very personable and caring.”
Sean Park, 19, political science major
Steven Hall, 25, journalism major
“Professor Dave Denny. He can incorporate many different perspectives in one class.”
“Professor Lomax. Very outgoing and easy to talk to.”
“Professor Setziol. He’s passionate and more interested in helping his students succeed.”
Natalie Nolden, 51, undeclared
Kim Urban, 18, fine arts major
Daniel Rosado, 22, music major
“Professor Cynthia LeeKlawender. She’s easy to understand and simplifies difficult material.”
“Professor Dickerson. He’s insightful and interesting.”
Dennis Chen, 18, computer science major
Lalitha Kristipati, 18, industrial design major
“Professor Batton. The meetings are more personal.”
Iman Rai, 18, English major
COMPILED BY LINA KWON
funds, the Fed has ratcheted down the Fed Funds rate target 4.25 percent and the economy continues to be on the brink. Speaking of the Fed, you want to find out what that ol’ rascal – the rock star of central banking, Alan Greenspan – has been up to. What, Greenspan has not been beatified?! As a matter of fact – though some claimed it was courageous of him to have recently testified before Congress and admitted the flaws in his ideology and model of the economy, and that he had made “mistakes” – I thought it was kind of sad. The man known as the maestro, who had become the symbol of our unprecedented prosperity in this era, and who used to go to capital hill and dazzle ’em with his circumlocutory summary of current monetary policy, instead simply came across as a rather befuddled, almost disgraced old man (granted he is 82 years old). Perhaps it is time you took down those AG posters hanging on your bedroom walls. Depression. Depression?! Hold it a second, you have to look that one up. You’re stunned. In 2001, that term wasn’t even part of the economic vernacular, and now it’s being seriously bandied about. What’s the difference, then and now? Basically, when the 2000 stock market crash bottomed out, the collateral damages were limited. The result: mild recession. On the other hand, today we have something rather different. That is, if it were simply a matter of loss of wealth due to falling home prices – at this point around $2.3 trillion – we probably wouldn’t even be talking about recession (except for Nouriel Roubini, of course). But, the toppling of home prices kicked in the chain reaction set in place by all the mysterious derivatives that have been featured in this column over the last few weeks, and to make, what is by now, a very well known story short: Voila! But still, depression? Though we may be confronting a rather nasty recession, most believe an outright depression is unlikely. For one thing, we have somewhat learned from history and haven’t (thus far) reinstituted the same policy mistakes made at the onset of the Great Depression; and today, we are better equipped to handle a large scale crisis like the one that currently confronts us. All things considered, given all that has happened to the economy over the last year or so – the mortgage/credit crisis, another stock market crash, oil prices at real all-time highs, etc. – it’s almost a miracle that we aren’t worse off than we currently are. Wait, the Federal Government has done what?! Yes, that great bastion of free-market capitalism has taken over home mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, an 80 percent stake in AIG, orchestrated takeovers between banks and has partially nationalized the commercial banking system. More than likely, the regulatory pendulum will swing toward more regulation, and away from less. Have we gone commie?! What is the world coming to? Well, what about the rest of the world? You figure they’ve got to be doing better because, before your recent nodding off, experts were declaring that the rest of the world had “decoupled” from the United States, and thus, if the U.S. had an economic downturn, the rest of the world would be unaffected. A couple of left clicks later, and YIKES! Never mind. Overwhelmed with despair, you begin to think that perhaps you were better off in your previous state. You turn off your computer and take a “brain vacation” by turning on the TV. And, lo and behold, just in time for “Entertainment Tonight”! As the soothing tones of Mary Hart wash over you, you begin to think, ah well! Maybe things will be okay after all. I mean, things couldn’t get any worse. Or could they ... Stephen Zill is an instructor of economics at De Anza College. He wrote this article for La Voz Weekly. Contact him at: zillstephen@fhda.edu.
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PEOPLE
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
De Anza professor practices unique teaching method Bella Yashayev LA VOZ NEWS
PHOTO CURTESY OF GREG KNITTLE
Greg Knittel, the professor with the cowboy hat and The Beatles shirts who plays guitar in class, has a unique approach to interacting with students. He adds students on his facebook account, and even has “bought” a couple using the “friends for sale” feature. He also has a collection of amazing stories about being pulled over by his own daughter or being nearly shot while driving his son into a military base. Knittel began working for De Anza College in 1980 as a van driver, while he was attending classes there. He first majored in music and later switched to history. Soon after, he transferred to San Jose State University where he got his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in History. Knittel claims he wasn’t much of a student when he was younger. He dropped out of high school and it wasn’t until he attended college that he took his education seriously. Knittel refers to his years in college as a “life changing experience.” In college he sensed a different approach from teachers, and learning became a far more pleasing and inviting experience to him than it has ever been before. Knittel first pursued a degree in
music, but his poor performance in music theory along with his growing interest in history brought him back to De Anza, this time as an instructional associate, an occupation he says he never before believed he would have. Today, Knittel speaks about his decision to become a teacher as “the best thing I’ve ever done.” Connecting with students and other faculty members is the best aspect of his professional career. But even more so, Knittel shows great appreciation for the college he has been part of for 28 years “This is a great place. I feel very fortunate and lucky that this is where I get to work,” he said. Knittel is a huge music fan. He loves Bob Dylan, brings his guitar to class and has even been known to dedicate a day’s lecture to the history of The Beatles. “Most people appreciate something different in class,” said Knittel. Knittle often engages students in critical thinking and analysis of historical fact. His lectures go beyond just dry facts; they are stories he shares with the students. His discussions are analytical and he wants his students to not only know history but also to learn from it. “It’s important to be involved in education because it will make you a more informed voter,” says Knittel, remembering the upcoming presiden-
tial election. “I want someone who is going to make peaceful decisions in the world. That’s how I am going to choose for whom to vote.” Knittel is also the club advisor for the Japanese Student Association. “Whenever I see him he waves at me,” said JSA President Satomi Yokoyama. “It’s more like we’re frinds.” “He is warm and welcoming,” said student Yujin Yoshimura, who competes with Knittel to see who can buy the most friends on Facebook. Knittel is known for his friendly and pleasant personality. “He has a wonderful sense of humor,” says Francesca Rushing, a sociology instructor at De Anza. “He is exceptionally helpful to any student that comes in.” Rushing and Knittel share their office together, and they call it “The Fun Room,” because, as Knittel says, “It is a fun place to work. It’s an office with a coffee pot and cookies, and everyone is always welcome to come in.” Knittel – who has been called Santa Claus, Indiana Jones and even Teddy Bear – has mastered his own unique brand of teaching with love and enthusiasm. He is a hard character to miss around De Anza. Bella Yashayev is a staff reporter for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: bellayashayev@lavozdeanza.com.
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NOVEMBER 3, 2008
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
OPINION
OPINION
PAGE 7
PRO & CON
Rapid Transit makes life in Bay Area easier HER OPINION
The Voice of De Anza Students
Shawn McGann Editor in Chief COMIC BY SHAWN MCGANN AND GALEN OBACK
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EDITORIAL
2, 4, 6, 8! Which Props do we appreciate? Vote YES on Proposition 2 By forcing factory farmers to give their livestock room to walk around, Proposition 2 encourages more humane treatment of animals and more ecologically sound farming practices. It may only be a small improvement in our nation’s agricultural system, but it is a step in the right direction. Vote NO on Proposition 4 At first glance, Proposition 4 seems reasonable. If passed, it would mandate doctors who perform abortions on minors to notify the girls’ parents beforehand. The idea is that it would be in the best interest of the girls to discuss this issue with their families. However, the proposition could ultimately endanger more than it would help, if girls turn to illegal abortions out of fear of talking with their parents. It assumes all families are open to this kind of discussion. The United States government cannot mandate healthy family communication. Vote NO on Proposition 6 Propositon 6 will rob the education system of much needed funding
and give it to the California prison system, the largest in the country. It claims to act as a deterrent against gang violence, but what it really does is give the judicial system the ability to change any misdemeanor crime committed by teenagers to a felony if they are in a group of three or more. The teens could then be sentenced to state prison rather then a juvenile detention center. Vote NO on Proposition 8 Proposition 8 seeks to amend the California State Constitution in order to bar same sex couples from enjoying the same rights as heterosexual couples. The idea is not only discriminatory, but it also violates the Separation of Church and State and Due Process clauses of the U.S. Constitution. The “protection of marriage” argument is not valid because Proposition 8 would not alter the legal institution of marriage in any way. Proposition 8 seeks to ensure that all Californians are eligible to share equal ownership of property and financial responsibility with the one they love.
OTHER VIEWS
Sex offenders’ reform depends on education Narsu Rao HER OPINION
Registered non-felony sex offenders should be given a chance to attend college and become better citizens. Rehabilitating those who have erred in the past is as integral a part of the community as ensuring people’s safety and security. Denying higher education to those who genuinely want to reenter society hurts their chances of building stable new lives. Proposition 83, approved by 70 percent of California voters in 2006, bars all registered sex offenders – whose crimes range from forcible rape to indecent exposure – from living within 2,000 feet of a public or private school or a park where children regularly gather. And under a new bill, sex offenders are ineligible for Pell Grants, the nation’s premier financial aid program for low-income students, starting July next July. All this is good in the interest of children and families. We should make every effort to protect society
from sexual predators. But making it difficult for registered sex offenders to reform their lives does not help the situation. It is worth noting the flaws that exist in the record keeping of sex offenders. Many with serious charges declare themselves “homeless” and leave without a trace, while some with minor offenses suffer the consequences for the rest of their lives. It is only fair to give registered offenders a second chance, as long as they are psychologically stable and committed to living decent lives. This would not compromise campus safety. In order to allow sex offenders the option of integrating back into society while ensuring the safety of others, colleges should deal with applicants on a case-by-case basis. Through a careful screening and interview process, colleges should be able to admit those who are truly ready to rebuild their lives. Narsu Rao is a staff reporter for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: narsurao@lavozdeanza.com.
When I attended De Anza, I laid the groundwork for my future. Every class I took, every opportunity I seized – including being elected to represent students on the Foothill-De Anza Community College Board of Trustees – prepared me for my later career as a math teacher, community leader, Cupertino city councilwoman and now mayor. You are doing the same work today, juggling a career, commuting, family and school. Nov. 4 we have the opportunity to lay the groundwork for a better transportation system that will make the juggling acts of residents in Santa Clara County and throughout the Bay Area a little easier. By voting yes on Measure B and supporting a BART extension in Santa Clara County, we can reduce traffic, provide alternatives to long commutes and reduce our dependence on expensive and polluting fossil fuels. Measure B proposes a 16.1-mile BART extension that would come south from Fremont into Milpitas, San Jose and Santa Clara. With six stops, the line will help circle the Bay with fast commuter rail and connect with Caltrain in Santa Clara and downtown San Jose at the HP Arena. Long commutes can become opportunities to hit the books or simply relax before class because Measure B makes choosing public transit more logical. When the line is complete, more than 80 percent of Santa Clara County residents will live within two miles or less of a BART, Caltrain or light rail station. This system will be integrated with our bus and express bus fleet, making it faster and easier to get to campus.
But to make it happen – we have to lay the groundwork by voting yes on Measure B. In 2000, Santa Clara County voters overwhelmingly supported a measure to fund the construction of the BART line. Today, we have state funds matching our local money. But the missing piece of construction funding is from the federal government. The Federal Transit Administration won’t pay its share of the construction costs without reassurances that we will pay to operate and maintain the line. Measure B provides that reassurance by creating a 30-year, 1/8-cent sales tax to fund the line. But, because the writers of Measure B understand that we can’t afford to spend money for nothing, the proposal won’t go into effect until we have a guarantee from the federal government that they will match our local construction dollars. You read that correctly – the tax never starts until and unless the federal matching funds are secured. It is the ultimate taxpayer protection. The new BART line will improve transportation throughout the region, carrying an estimated 100,000 trips every day. That means fewer cars clogging our roadways and polluting our skies. By paying to operate and maintain the line and allowing county officials to access federal dollars, we are creating a construction project that will employ up to 2,300 people annually and create up to 7,400 permanent jobs. Join me in laying the groundwork for a better tomorrow. Vote yes on B. ILLUSTRATION BY GALEN OBACK
La Voz Weekly
Dolly Sandoval
Dolly Sandoval is the mayor of Cupertino. She wrote this article for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: dolly@dollysandoval.com.
Extending BART more trouble than it’s worth Maryann Sparelic HER OPINION
Why are we investing all of our energy in BART? Measure B proposes the extension of BART to Santa Clara County, using a one-eighth sales tax increase to fund the operation and maintenance expenses. If passed, the transport line would extend from Fremont into Milpitas, San Jose and Santa Clara. Extending BART to Santa Clara County does have its advantages. It would provide residents with a fast and convenient alternative to driving, benefiting both the environment and people’s wallets. However, residents already have an alternative to driving: Caltrain. Extending BART to San Jose is not the answer. San Jose has low transit ridership – it’s a low-commuter city compared to larger cities, such as San Francisco and Berkeley. I do not believe extending BART to San Jose would increase ridership, which is necessary in offsetting operational and maintenance costs. Instead, we should focus our attention on improving the system that is already in place. We should concentrate on electrifying Caltrain. This would eliminate diesel engines, reducing operational costs and thus
allowing for more frequent, faster service and additional trains. According to Caltrain’s Short Range Transit Plan, Caltrain 2025 visualizes a rapid electrified rail system from San Francisco to San Jose. The plan calls for the latest train control technology, allowing more frequent service and shorter commuter times. Although the plan has long been in the works, obtaining adequate funding is the central issue. With the electrification of the system from San Francisco estimated at $785 million, new rail cars another $422 million and project management an additional $100 million, the cost is a projected $1.5 billion. Despite financial setbacks, Caltrain continues to go after federal, state and regional funds. Electrifying Caltrain, while expensive, would be worth it in the long run. With rising diesel prices and fare increases, it won’t be long before cuts to service and ridership drastically impact Caltrain. Neither BART nor Caltrain completely solve transportation issues or rising fuel costs, but since Caltrain is already in place, it makes far more sense to fund it. Vote no on B. Maryann Sparelic is a staff reporter for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: maryannsparelic@lavozdeanza.com.
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CAMPUS NEWS
LAVOZDEANZA.COM
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
PROTEST | Prop 8 demonstration gets unruly; police called Continued from Page 1 amend the California State Constitution to define marriage as between a man and a woman, eliminating the right of same sex couples to marry in California. The amendment would effectively reverse the state supreme court’s May 15 decision that ruled a state law banning gay marriage as unconstitutional and discriminatory. In 2000, 61 percent of Californians voted yes on Proposition 22, which made it state law that only marriage between a man and a woman could be recognized in California. “Four judges in San Francisco nullified my vote, and I have a right for my vote to count,” said Judy Zimbel, a Bay Area resident invited to De Anza on behalf of the Korean Emmanuel Presbyterian Church of San Jose. “It comes down to supporting equality,” said Exning Smith, a De Anza student who protested against Proposition 8. “Homosexual people are denied over 100 rights that heterosexuals are allowed, and to divide them is an act of bigotry and discrimination.” “It’s not only immoral, it’s unconstitutional,” said Devon Kniess, another De Anza Student who showed up to protest the proposition. In a recent video speaking out against Proposition 8, California Superintendent of Schools Jack Cornell said it has “nothing to do with our schools or kids. Our schools aren’t required to teach anything about marriage, and using kids as a way to lie about it is shameful.” Cornell said issues surrounding homosexual marriage are not being taught in California’s schools without parental notification or consent, but according to Jim Al-
len, a Bay Area resident also invited to De Anza on behalf of the Korean Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, they are. “These issues should be kept between the mother and father,” he said. The role of religion was a key talking point among pro-Proposition 8 activists. “I believe God created Adam and Eve, and there was no Adam and Steve,” said Sarah Shin, a De Anza student and member of the Korean Emmanuel Presbyterian church, “and God is the only one who has the right to change the rules of marriage. It’s like a copyright.” “No single group of people should be discriminated against at the state or federal level, said Ernest Chavez, a De Anza student and member of the student activist group Students for Justice, “and there are a lot of misconceptions about what will happen if we defeat Proposition 8.” Students for Justice plans to set up tables and pass out information regarding the proposition and their stance on Monday, the day before elections. “If pro-Proposition 8 supporters show up there, we will have another rally,” said Students for Justice member Matthew Bradley. The protest went on for several hours, dying down later in the afternoon as the wind grew increasingly heavy and it began to rain. A few protesters, mostly pro-Proposition 8 demonstrators, remained standing in the harsh weather conditions even as most others retreated indoors or left for class. Toward the end of the day, protest signs could be found in trash bins or littered around campus. Audrey Barker is the news editor for La Voz Weekly. Contact her at: audreybarker@lavozdeanza.com.
EVAN DUCHARME/LA VOZ WEEKLY
A protester sits on the base of the flag pole in the Main Quad holding up a sign in support of Proposition 8 as campus police officer Bob Concilla tries to talk him down.