All Entries in the "Spotlight" Category

Community, students strengthen pressure on embattled board

 By ANDREW PAXTON

Civic leaders have met with Pima Community College students to discuss ways to increase pressure on the four governing board members facing calls for resignation.

The meeting, organized by PCC student leader Joseph McGrath and Tucson business owner Cort Chalfant, brought concerned students and members of the community together at West Campus on April 25 to determine how to move forward following Pima being placed on probation.

The Southern Arizona Leadership Council, which had representatives at the meeting, wants to coordinate with students to present a unified voice moving forward.

“We are here today because a lot of folks in the business community have taken an interest with what is going on with Pima,” Chalfant said.

Members of the Coalition For Accountability, Integrity, Respect and Responsibility and Pima Open Admissions Coalition, two advocacy groups that have been critical of the board and their decisions, also attended the meeting.

Chalfant recapped for the assembly the Higher Learning Commission’s decision to place Pima on probation and the calls for resignation the board members that served under former chancellor Roy Flores are now facing.

He detailed how numerous groups, including Faculty Senate, the employee groups representing most of Pima’s staff, and external organizations have all passed resolutions expressing no confidence in Marty Cortez, Brenda Even, David Longoria and Scott Stewart.

Nearly all of the groups calling for resignations also want the board to postpone the search for a new permanent chancellor.

“There’s a risk that exists for students here today that, but for the actions of this board, would not exist,” Chalfant said.

The group discussed how they felt about the situation, methods to get more students involved in the healing process and what steps everyone could take to remove board members.

“I would like to see us take action as a united front and solve our own problems,” McGrath said.

They concluded that many students don’t understand the issues PCC is facing, how serious the consequences could be if Pima does lose accreditation, or what can be done to improve the college’s situation.

“There are a lot of people in my class that have no idea about the problems we are facing,” PCC student Jesse Huggins said.

The assembly explored the possibility of starting a petition to initiate a recall election, which is the only way board members can be removed from their position before regularly scheduled elections.

“It has happened before, it’s not impossible to do,” Carol Zimmerman, co-owner of Zimmerman Public Affairs and member of the SALC, told the assembly. “In fact, it’s very possible to do.”

Added McGrath, “It’s going to take a consensus to get anything done.”

The group also decided to approach the recently announced chancellor finalists and explain why students, faculty and community members cannot support them, based on the lack of confidence in the board is facing.

The board has expressed a desire to permanently fill the chancellor position by July 1, despite numerous requests for the search to be suspended.

The collection agreed to stage a march and rally on May 8 before the next scheduled Board of Governor’s meeting. The demonstration will begin either at Rincon High School or Burns Park and proceed to the District Office, where a rally will be held.

Participants will then be encouraged to attend the meeting and express their concerns directly to the board during public comments. The board meeting starts at 7:30 p.m., and those seeking to make public comments must show up early to fill out a comment card.

“There is power in numbers,” Chalfant said.

He hopes 1,000 people or more will attend. Groups including Faculty Senate and Pima Community College Education Association have asked their members to participate.

“If there were 250 faculty members, 250 staff, 250 students and 250 community people, we could make this work,” Joe Labuda, president of Faculty Senate, said in an email to faculty senators.

“That would be a message that the board would find hard to ignore,” he wrote.

Anyone seeking more information about the rally or interested in becoming involved in any of the advocacy group’s efforts should contact Joe McGrath at jmcgrath3@mail.pima.edu or Cort Chalfant at cort@cratucson.com.

College Living: Apartments offer ‘dorm’ amenities

By CHELO GRUBB

 Pima Community College is a diverse institution with campuses all over town. Older and working students make college fit into their already busy schedules. It doesn’t make sense for Pima to have dorms.

It also doesn’t make sense for students to miss out on “college life” just because they decided Pima fit their needs better than a four-year university.

Luckily, plenty of apartments around Tucson cater to college students.

Near each Pima campus, many apartment complexes offer shuttles to PCC and to the University of Arizona. These complexes offer opportunities to meet and live around other college students while paying affordable rent.

Most student-specific apartments offer roommate matching. Applicants who want to live together can secure an apartment together. Tenants who don’t apply with roommates fill out a “profile card.”

The cards ask questions involving personal, social and study habits. The apartment managers use them to match people with similar lifestyles.

Student apartments also tend to provide rent security by offering price per bed billing. Tenants are only responsible for their portion of the rent, even if a roommate moves out.

Collegerentals.com offers a long list of apartments located near colleges all over the country.

Aztec Press compiled a list of student-centric apartments around town perfect for different kinds of collegiate environments.

ENTRADA REAL – Handy for dual enrollment

Located just south of Stone Avenue and Speedway Boulevard, Entrada Real is within walking distance of both PCC’s Downtown Campus and UA.

It’s also on Sun Tran’s line, making other PCC campuses and parts of town easily accessible.

Of course, the “college experience” isn’t just about the shortest possible walk to class.

Living at Entrada Real comes with a few perks, including free tanning and access to barbecue grills, a fitness center, two swimming pools and a hot tub.

Three- and four-bedroom floor plans offer private bathrooms.

THE SEASONS – Emphasizes the fun

The Seasons, located on Wetmore Road just east of the Tucson Mall, offers a short commute to any part of town. For nondrivers, the complex offers bicycles to rent and a shuttle to UA.

The Seasons’ 30-seat theater is open for tenants to drop in and watch television or a movie, or listen to Pandora radio. The room can also be reserved for parties.

The complex also offers a gaming lounge, a tanning bed, a pool table and indoor/outdoor gym equipment.

The pool area, which is outfitted with grills and cabana-covered lounge chairs, is open 24/7.

The Seasons has two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom plans, with a bathroom for each bedroom.

The complex is currently completing office space and a café center near the front office, which are expected to be finished in early August.

Find more information online at theseasonstucson.com.

STAR PASS – Social haven

Star Pass apartments are located at Greasewood and Anklam roads, right next to PCC’s West Campus. There is a shuttle service to the UA.

The complex has a fitness center, game room and TV room, which are open 24 hours every day.

There’s a coffee bar where students can relax or study for exams, and a business center equipped with computers, a fax machine and a copier.

The gated complex also features pools, a spa, a picnic area with grills and a sand volleyball court.

Star Pass makes an effort to offer social events. During the warm months, it hosts poolside barbecues ever Friday.

There is also an annual pool party, which tenants can attend for free. Guests can buy tickets to attend.

The complex schedules guest presenters to talk to and work with tenants. During April, Star Pass scheduled yoga and zumba instructors.

To ensure safety, the entire property is enclosed.

Studio, one-, two and three-bedroom suites are available with private bathrooms. Four-bedroom units come with two bathrooms.

More information is available at livestarpass.com.

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Student-friendly apartments in Tucson

Apartment                             Nearest campuses                 Pricing

*Price-per-bed billing

Casa Bella                               Desert Vista                            $465-$599

The District                            Downtown, West                   *$749-$689

Star Ranch                               West, Community                  *$295-$640

Star Pass                                 West, Community                  *$445-$745

Entrada Real                            Downtown                              *$589-$689

The Seasons                            Northwest, Downtown          *$439-$679

Williams Center                      Davis-Monthan AFB                         $750-$1200

The Place                                Northwest                                $680-$1150

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Living at home? Try these tips

By CHELO GRUBB

With Pima Community College’s in-state tuition being a fraction of that at universities, many students choose PCC in an effort to save a little cash.

Those thrifty students often make another penny-pinching decision: living at home.

It’s a tough balance. College students learn about taking care of themselves while preparing for a life in the career of their choice.

They’re expected to practice self-discipline but are given the opportunity to make their own decisions.

At home, things are a little different.

Everything seems a little too similar to life as a teenager.

It’s not just the Spiderman poster hanging over the bed, although it probably is time for that to come down.

Without any noticeable change from their perspective, it can be difficult for parents to accept the shift. College students are adults, even if they’re 18-years-olds who can’t cook anything more complicated than spaghetti.

Changeing relationships

The first step is having a conversation about it. While high school graduation probably brings up these thoughts for parents, it’s nice to let them know what changes to anticipate. It’s all about finding the right balance.

Keeping your own hours

It’s a little difficult to roll into the house at 2 every morning without making mom a little uneasy.

Make an effort to let her know when a late night or nights away from home are coming up.

There’s no need to ask permission, but parents always prefer a heads-up to anxiously waking in the middle of the night, worried because they haven’t heard the garage door go up.

Once they get used to the idea, unplanned nights away from home will be less likely to spur anxiety attacks.

Personal space

Perhaps the biggest challenge in living at home is trying to live by a schedule separate from the rest of the household.

There’s a big paper due on Monday but the family is spending the weekend doing spring-cleaning. Relatives are visiting from out of town but a guy from Spanish class is having a party.

Again, talking it out is the best solution. Explain deadlines or other priorities. But, it would probably help family relations to participate a little.

Respecting the hierarchy

In the end, it’s just nice to have parents who are OK with keeping their kids around for a couple extra years … especially if it’s rent-free.

It’s their house: Avoid conflict and respect their wishes. At the same time, be confident and explore independence as much as possible.

Just remember that having family support is a big help and more important than trailblazing to complete independence weeks after starting college.

Blending love of movies, music

By A. GREENE

Since childhood, Casey Dewey remembers being taken with music in film.

When the Pima Community College student watched his first James Bond movie, he noticed how the music added to every scene.

He recalls watching early MTV at age 8, totally engrossed in music videos for Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” and Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”

Even many trips he’s taken were music- and movie-centric.

“When Elvis Costello said he didn’t want to go to Chelsea, I wanted to find out why he didn’t want to go there,” Dewey said.

Now, at 34, Dewey’s interests still center around music and film. As a freelancer for Tucson Weekly, Dewey writes film reviews and pieces for the music section.

He’s also a contributor to the blog Network Awesome, a site that curates YouTube videos and provides commentaries in article form.

But music and film appreciation really come together for Dewey between the hours of 2:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. every Wednesday on 91.3 KXCI. He is Dewtron, host of Deep Red Radio.

The show features music from obscure film soundtracks and overlooked current songs.

The name comes from a 1970s Italian horror film called “Profondo Rosso,” which is “Deep Red” when translated into English. Dewey thinks the Profondo Rosso theme song perfectly encapsulates his program’s vibe.

“It’s scary yet funky, accessible and traditional, yet unique,” he said.

Dewey likes to switch it up. One track could be a funky song from a ‘70s blacksploitation movie. When that’s over, you might hear something from a ‘60s Bollywood film.

He picks about two hours and 15 minutes of music to play, and about 15 minutes of background music for breaks, when he’s talking. He then burns two CDs for the show.

“My iTunes is meticulously organized,” Dewey said. He has everything ordered by decade and genre. That way he can find it when he needs it, since he’s built up quite a collection.

Dewey said he’ll sometimes check out Wikipedia to see if any composers were born or died on that day, and play something from them.

He also keeps his ears peeled for new tunes.

“I’m constantly finding new stuff,” Dewey said. He’s got a playlist titled “incoming” specifically for songs he wants to feature.

So how and when did the program start?

“I’ve been listening to KXCI ever since I was a teen,” Dewey said. He had the idea for the show, and thought he’d get involved with the community radio station.

“I walked in and told them I wanted to volunteer,” he said.

After a few training classes and two shadow days, he participated in KXCI “radio boot camps,” where students demonstrate their skills on air.

Completion doesn’t guarantee an on-air slot. That’s where Dewey got lucky.

Not long after completing training, a time slot opened up and was offered to Dewey. He was the first of his class to have his own show.

In November 2012, Deep Red Radio went on the air.

Julio Pena began as a volunteer at KXCI in 2010, and has filled in as host for Deep Red Radio on occasion. His show, called Hex Enduction Hours, was in Deep Red’s time slot before it moved to Thursday nights.

“I love Deep Red Radio,” Pena said. “Casey is quite knowledgeable on film and music.”

Dewey always takes a nap before the show, and brings a big thermos of coffee to drink.

“I think the late after-hours are good for the show,” he said.

Mostly though, Dewey likes being able to play music that’s been lost and overlooked.

“I want to remind people it’s not just background music,” he said. “A lot of musicians and composers are still working today, and I don’t want them to go unnoticed.”

Pena agrees, and said Deep Red does a great job with that.

“Because of DRR, I have explored many of the artists that Casey plays,” Pena said. “KXCI is unique in Tucson for the wide array of programming it offers listeners. DRR adds to this programming landscape. Tucson is better for having DRR on the air.”

In the future, Dewey hopes to have more interviews with bands that he features on the show, if they happen to be coming through town.

Dewey said he thinks people should give Deep Red a shot because of the exposure it offers.

“You’re gonna hear stuff you’ve never heard before,” he said. “It’s eye-opening and ear-opening.”

‘Price of Silence’ film seeks to educate first responders

By NAJIMA RAINEY

Freelance journalist Anne Dalton had no idea that sex trafficking of underage girls could be happening in a city like Tucson.

“Tucson seemed like a nice place to live because of the climate and the scenery and the university,” Dalton said.

Yet, some of the same attributes that drew Dalton and countless others to this seemingly quiet desert community make it a hub for trafficking of drugs and people.

Dalton, a retired mental health administrator and former Pima Community College journalism student, has spent the last four years working as a reporter and photojournalist.

Through her membership in Soroptimist Club, an international organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls, Dalton was introduced to a shocking reality.

Shared Hope International, a group that works to end commercial sex trafficking, had issued a report on underage sex trafficking laws that included a state-by-state report card. “Arizona had received either a C or a D,” she said.

Dalton discovered that Arizona is one of only a few states where a minor can be arrested and charged with prostitution. Instead of being seen as victims, children who are being trafficked can be treated as criminals.

“These are people who have no voice,” Dalton said.

The Soroptimists provided a grant to a group hosting a conference on sex trafficking in Arizona. Dalton volunteered at the conference, and learned about some of the obstacles to ending child sex trafficking in Pima County.

For example, 20 children were arrested in Tucson for prostitution between 2005 and 2009.

However, during that same period almost no pimps were arrested and even fewer were actually sentenced.

That means underage girls and boys have been charged with crimes, but the adults who profit from their prostitution haven’t been arrested.

While the underage victims are working their way through the legal system, the pimps are free to seek another victim.

Dalton spent decades working in mental health administration, and understood a thing or two about social service and helping vulnerable populations.

She knew, for example, that “first responders” are likely to label victims as delinquents or child prostitutes instead of sexual abuse survivors because they haven’t been educated about sex trafficking.

Dalton thought she could help educate the police officers, probation officers and social workers who are most likely to come into contact with the victims.

Using tools available at Access Tucson community media, Dalton created a short, educational film called “The Price of Silence.”

The movie spotlights two Arizona women who were lured into prostitution as teenage girls. In the years since they left “the life,” very little has changed.

A representative for the Polaris Project, a national program designed to offer help to victims of sex trafficking, said Arizona has no specific aid system in place.

Tucson has programs for homeless women, shelters for battered women and assistance for women in need of mental health support, but lacks an umbrella organization.

As a result, a woman may be placed with an organization that can give her shelter, but it maybe unequipped to address the underlying issues that made her vulnerable to traffickers in the first place.

That’s why Dalton wants to reach out to first responders. She realizes Arizona has a long way to go, but hopes that her movie can help, in some small way, to give a voice to the voiceless.

To view “The Price of Silence,” go to youtube.com/watch?v=VdamFCMAONo&feature=youtu.be.

GOLF: Men place 20th at nationals, women 12th

By JAIME HERNANDEZ and STEVE CHOICE

The Pima Community College men’s golf team finished in 20th place out of 24 teams at the NJCAA national tournament in Lubbock, Texas, on May 18.

The Aztecs consistently improved their teams scores throughout the four-day tourney, going 309-304-298-288 to total 1,199 strokes.

Pima’s top finisher was sophomore Austin Stuessel, who shot a 1-under-par 71 on the final day. He finished with 298 for the competition.

Sophomore Landyn Lewis had the best round for any Aztec, carding a 3-under-par 69 on day four.

Freshman David Chung finished at 298 for the tourney, Lewis and fellow sophomore Joseph Courtney tied at 303, and freshman Tyler Cooper shot 316.

On the women’s side, Pima came in 12th out of 17 teams at the national tournament, which concluded on May 16. The tourney was held at Longbow Golf Course in Mesa.

The Aztecs had a team score of 387 in the final round and went 378-378-387-387 over the four days.

Freshman Josie Trapnell placed 41st for individuals, totaling 347.

Sophomore Abriana Romero shot 387, freshman Brittney Makar carded 396, and sophomore Shelby Empens totaled 400.

The men’s team finished in second place at the Region 1, Division I tournament at Sidewinder Golf Course in Gold Canyon, Ariz., on April 25-28.

The Aztecs finished the tournament with a combined score of 1,208.

Courtney, the defending regionals champion, finished the tournament in fourth place with a score of 297. Chung also earned medalist honors, shooting 301 to close out the tournament in seventh place. Stuessel finished with a 309 and Lewis totaled 316.

Courtney was disappointed in his performance.

“I just didn’t finish. It all came down to ball control,” he said. “I wasn’t controlling my ball well on the green, and I didn’t make any putts.”

Despite his difficulties, the Montana native still enjoyed his experience.

“The last two trips to regionals have been great,” Courtney said. “The coaches and players are some of my best friends, and it’s great to compete at a level like regionals.”

On May 13, Courtney was named to the NJCAA Division I PING All-District team by the Golf Coaches Association of America.

Trapnell was named first-team All-Region and finished in fifth place among individuals in the ACCAC this season. Romero and Empens were selected second-team All-Region.

Both squads return exactly half of their rosters next season.

BASEBALL: Aztecs finish year with split

By ROSE VALENZUELA

The semester’s coming to an end, and so has the Pima Community College baseball team’s season.

The Aztecs (25-29-1, 15-23 ACCAC) finished in sixth place in the conference Division I standings, which wasn’t enough to qualify them for the regional tournament. Only the top four finishers qualify for regionals.

PCC played its final doubleheader on April 27, earning a split against South Mountain Community College at home.

Pima defeated South Mountain 7-4 in the first game, but dropped the second contest by a 12-9 score.

Freshman pitcher Hyrum Formo went the distance to pick up the win in the initial contest. He closed out the year at 5-3.

The Aztecs used a three-run fourth inning and a four-run sixth to claim victory.

Freshman Alvaro Flores went 2 for 3 with an RBI and two runs scored, while fellow frosh Sergio Ortiz was 2 for 2 with an RBI.

In game two, sophomore Will Holbrook took the loss on the mound to close out the campaign at 2-6.

Sophomore Alec Beyersdorf went 2 for 5, and fellow sophomore Zach Schira had a 3 for 5 performance.

Many key sophomores will be moving on, including pitcher Keith Zuniga.

Zuniga was recently named to the second team for both the All-ACCAC squad and the All-Region 1 team. He will pitch for Bethune-Cookman University (Fla.) next season.

Other sophomores who will surely be missed include Jake Cole, Bryant Muñoz, Jesus Arvizu, Schira and Beyersdorf.

PCC swept Arizona Western College on April 23, 4-2 and 7-4.

Schira figured prominently in the first contest, going 2 for 4 with two RBIs and a run scored. Beyersdorf went 4 for 4 with three RBIs.

Freshman Juan Gamez was 2 for 4 with an RBI.

In game two, Cole went 8 1/3 innings for the win to finish 4-6 on the year.

Flores had a big game at the dish, finishing 4 for 4 with three RBIs.

The team traveled to Douglas for a doubleheader against Cochise College on April 20. The Apaches proved to be ungracious hosts, sweeping PCC 6-2 and 4-2.

Zuniga took the loss in game one to close out the season at 5-5, while Holbrook absorbed the loss in the second contest.

On April 18, Pima dropped a pair at home against Yavapai College, 11-2 and 14-12.

Yavapai touched up freshman pitcher Scotty Watson for five first-inning runs in game one. Watson took the loss and fell to 2-5 on the year.

In game two, Yavapai scored five runs in the eighth inning and two in the ninth to pull out the win.

Earth Day festivals abound

PCC students Karina Alvarez and Christian Valencia, center, talk with Western National Parks volunteers George and Liz Daniels at Northwest Campus.
Photo by Chelo Grubb

Compiled by Nellie Silva

and Diego Lozano III

Arizona International Film Festival

Through April 28

The showcase of independent films continues at venues throughout Tucson. Check the website for a schedule of featured screenings. Single admission tickets cost $8, while admission for seniors, students and military is $6.

Details: filmfestivalarizona.com

Pima County Fair

April 18-28

A varied lineup of performers such as Tyga, Hollywood Undead and Eaton Corbin takes center stage as the county fair returns for the 103rd time. The fairgrounds are located at 11300 S. Houghton Road, one mile south of I-10. Take Houghton Road exit 275. General admission is $8, and parking costs $5.

Details: pimacountyfair.com

Springfest Beer Festival

April 20

More than 50 craft breweries from across the country will participate in the inaugural festival. Tasting take place at the Rillito Park racetrack, First Avenue and River Road, from 1-5 p.m., with a VIP entrance open at noon. A wide selection of food trucks, music and beer-related activities will be on tap. Admission of $30 presale or $40 after presale includes 20 beer tickets.

Details: springfestbeerfest.com

Earth Day Festival

and Water Festival

April 21

The annual Earth Day Festival returns to the Reid Park DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, 1100 S. Randolph Way, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. This year, the event joins forces with the Water Festival. Family- friendly events include environmentally-themed exhibits, workshops, performances, an art show and hands-on activities for all ages. Highlights include a solar model car race, an alternate fuel vehicle show and a 3-mile Walk for Water. Admission is free. Anyone who rides a bike to the park can present their safety helmet to a cashier and enjoy free admission to the Reid Park Zoo.

Details: tucsonearthday.org

Cowboy Music Festival

and Western Art Show

April 27-28

The third annual Tucson Cowboy Music Festival and Western Art Show will take place at Old Tucson, 201 S. Kinney Road. Musicians pay homage to influences of the American West. Artists will have handmade works on display for purchase. Festival hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. both days. Tickets cost $16.65 for ages 12 and up.

Details:

tucsoncowboyfestival.org

THE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE: Palestine student overcoming cultural barriers

By PALOMA MELLO

Palestinian native Woroud Al-Farmawi pauses between classes at the PCC Downtown Campus.
Photo by Paloma Mello

Wouroud ElFarmawi, 40, left her native Palestine and came to the United States to pursue her dreams.

She is currently an English as a Second Language student at Pima Community College with many plans for the future.

Before coming to Tucson at the end of September, she lived in Saudi Arabia. Opportunities for a woman there are very scarce.

“I’m ambitious, I want to be an American citizen and feel democratic as a human being,” ElFarmawi said. “I want to build an exciting career, improve my knowledge and experience, and complete a doctor’s degree.”

Many aspects of American culture, including education, relationships, greetings and traditions, differ greatly from her Arabic upbringing.

“I found a lot of challenges here, but at the same time a lot of encouragement,” she said. “Peace and respect are the best things about living in the United States.”

ElFarmawi came to the United States with her two sons, Faris, 21, and Khalid, 17, to make a better life and to provide freedom to her sons. She said the United States offers more opportunities.

Faris ElFarmawi said he likes the United States.

“It’s good to learn new things and see how our lives are changing,” he said.

Wouroud ElFarmawi earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Dammam and an MBA in business administration from Open University Malaysia.

She has about eight years of experience as a lecturer, trainer and instructor. She was also the coordinator of a training program in Saudi Arabia and worked as an administrative assistant.

Before coming to the United States, she dreamed of getting a job and applying all of the skills she has acquired.

While she still hopes to build a successful career, she was surprised when she found it difficult to find good job opportunities.

Now she is starting the process of enrolling in an online doctoral business program.

“A Ph.D in business will help me to accomplish a successful career,” she said.

ElFarmawi started learning English before she came to the United States, but it wasn’t enough. She wants to speak the language as a native.

“It’s good to see her improving her abilities,” Faris ElFarmawi said.

To improve her English, she is taking upper-intermediate ESL classes at Pima and a pronunciation class at the University of Arizona.

“Pima is a good place to improve your education and to meet different people from different cultures,” Wouroud ElFarmawi said.

She has faced struggles as an international student, such as adjusting to different study schemes, people and cultures.

“I believe that as an international student, it is important to learn how to be flexible, adapt and deal with different types of situations,” she said. “But overall the international experience is very rich.”

TOP 10 Late-night restaurants

By DIEGO LOZANO III

A customer enjoys a lunch plate at HUB Restaurant and Creamery on East Congress Street.

Many students shoulder the responsibilities of being employed while going to school. This grueling task often leaves both brains and stomachs depleted.

Whether you’re clocking out during happy hour or from the late-night crew, here are a few of many Tucson restaurants that will leave your batteries recharged as spring finals approach.

1. Cheba Hut

If you have late-night munchies or a severe case of cotton mouth, Cheba Hut is the ideal destination to satisfy your hunger needs with an affordable menu of quality grub. Enjoy a gourmet sub, hemp brownies and a refreshing cup of Kool-Aid to get over your week’s struggles. Stores hours are 10 a.m.-3 a.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-midnight on Sundays. It’s located at 1820 E. Sixth St. Oh yeah, they deliver.

2. HUB Restaurant & Creamery

What can get any better than a fusion of spirits and ice cream? Yes, I said ice cream. The HUB Restaurant & Creamery is becoming a hot spot for fine wining and dining in downtown Tucson. With their quality service, sleek interior design and east-coast feel, the HUB is sure to relax your stressful mind. It’s open from 11 a.m.-midnight Sunday-Wednesday and extends closing hours to 2 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. It’s located at 266 E. Congress St.

3. O’Malleys On Fourth

A fan favorite, O’Malleys on Fourth Avenue remains a thriving location for fun and drinks. Either accompanied by your friends or walking in a one-man wolf pack, you’re bound to leave with a smile or an empty pocket. But hey, who can complain when you’re having fun? Don’t forget to hit the pool tables to release that built-up stress from countless hours studying. The Irish-themed restaurant is open from 11 a.m.-2 a.m. every day. It’s located at 247 N. Fourth Ave.

4. On A Roll Sushi

Instead of popping some tags, take your $20 down Congress Street for some exquisite sushi rolls. No matter your budget, On A Roll has a wide range of cuisine to select from, including specialty plates, appetizers and mixed drinks. Don’t be scared to roll through and stuff your face after your aggravating week. Restaurant hours vary during the week, and there are multiple happy hour sessions. Their location is at 63 E. Congress St.

5. Bison Witches

Founded in downtown Tucson nearly two decades ago, Bison Witches has carried its rich tradition to the likes of Oklahoma and Nebraska. So why not experience quality bar food at the original location on Fourth Avenue? With vibrant table-side service, deli sandwiches, soups and salads all contributing to a warm atmosphere, Bison Witches is a worthwhile place to devour a quality meal any day of the week from 11 a.m.-1 a.m. They’re at 326 N. Fourth Ave.

6. Espresso Art

Soak up the college night scene by spending your evening at Espresso Art. A cup of coffee or baked goods may bring some balance to your week. Of course, there is the added incentive of ripping some hookah outside or upstairs in the Euro-style cafe while studying or doing whatever you do in your free time. Espresso opens bright and early at 7 a.m. and closes at midnight, with enough time for you to catch a quick fix after a busy day. Their location is at 944 E. University Blvd.

7. Empire Pizza & Pub

One of my personal favorites, the Empire Pub is home to some of the finest pizza in Tucson at an extremely reasonable price. It’s open seven days week, from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and until 3 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. That provides timely service for anyone looking for a quick bite after hours. Empire provides delivery in case you’re too exhausted after class to find parking in construction-heavy downtown. They’re located at 137 E. Congress St. Don’t forget to try the cheesecake. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

8. Denny’s

I had to throw this one in here. What’s better than a plate of fresh pancakes and some bacon strips in the early a.m.? No matter which destination you’re near, never disregard the breakfast god that is Denny’s. I mean, who doesn’t love bacon? They have numerous locations around Tucson.

9. Brooklyn Pizza Company

Yes, the pizza lives up to the name. The always satisfying Italian ice and gelato satisfies a sweet tooth. It has online ordering and delivery services seven days a week and late-night slices available Thursday-Saturday from 11 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Brooklyn is an excellent option for your lazy nights or weekends. Store hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. They are located at 534 N. Fourth Ave. Oh yeah, their pizza is solar-powered.

10. Waffle House

Because who makes waffles anymore, right? Sadly, the yellow sign is harshly overlooked for that other yellow sign, the golden arches. Drop the fast-food habit and dine in for breakfast, lunch or dinner any time of day. They have numerous locations around Tucson.

‘Unofficial poet’ spends time giving

By SHANNON MONTENEGRO

Volunteer Jefferson Carter stands near a joke sign at the Sky Island Alliance offices.
Photo by Shannon Montenegro

Jefferson Carter is a man of many words, few of which can be repeated.

He cusses, jokes, contradicts himself and laughs while slumped in a lawn chair, relaxed enough to swing his leg over the chair’s arm. Long, colorfully striped socks peek from his corduroy pants.

“I just turned 70, so I have another 50 years of breathing ahead of me,” he says.

Carter retired from Pima Community College in 2008 after teaching writing at Downtown Campus for 30 years and serving as the department chair for 18 years.

“I gave up on trying to teach illiterates to write,” he says. “If you don’t read, you can’t write very well.”

Carter, who has lived in Tucson since he was 10 years old, started working with Sky Island Alliance three years ago because he’s always been concerned about environmental issues.

He hasn’t been able to participate in the group’s animal tracking and photo surveillance work, but hip replacement surgery in May will change that. He now mainly helps in the office, editing and doing data entry.

He plans to continue volunteering with SIA until he dies.

“I love working with these people,” he says. “They aren’t just a bunch of tree-huggers. They are, but they are scientists, too.”

Carter majored in literature in college, earning a Ph.D. from the University of Arizona. He continues to write poetry, and is the author of a new book of poems titled “Get Serious: New and Selected Poems”  published by Tucson’s Chax Press (chax.org).

“It’s a collection of my best work,” he says. “The first half is new poems and the second half is a selection of the best poems from my last eight books.”

Carter calls himself SIA’s “unofficial poet laureate” and sometimes organizes poetry readings that bring donations to the volunteer-based organization.

SIA rarely receives publicity about the good work it does, Carter says. “What I’d like to see is people read this in the Press and say, ‘Oh, I’d like to volunteer with them!’”Jefferson Carter was insHe was inspired to write the poem at right when he came across a photograph of the Dipthera festiva moth while volunteering.

Pima art graduate finds success

By SHEILA TEMPLETON

Artist George Peñaloza uses a modeling tool to shape the details in this one-of-a-kind ceramic piece, titled “Drop and Give Me 50!”

Artist George Peñaloza credits his success to the outstanding instruction he received at Pima Community College.

Peñaloza earned his associate degree in fine arts in 2010 under the instruction of long-time mentors Dennis Landry and Hirotsune Tashima.

“Landry taught me everything I know about illustration, he was a huge influence,” Peñaloza said.

“I learned so much from Tashima, too. His everlasting encouragement inspired me to push myself past limitations, broadening my understanding of creative processes.”

Peñaloza has achieved much success since attending PCC.

He works out of The Romero House Potters Inc., a studio that supports many local artists. His work can be seen and purchased through the Obsidian Gallery, located in downtown Tucson at 410 N. Toole Ave., Suite 120.

A showing of Peñaloza’s designs will be held next fall at the Obsidian Gallery.

Photos of his sculptures appeared in Pima’s literary magazine, SandScript, in 2008, 2009 and 2010, and he earned recognition in the form of the Mayor’s Prize in Ceramic Sculpture and the 2006 Arizona Designer Craftsmen Award.

Peñaloza was also a finalist in the NICHE Awards, the premier competition for professional artists and craftsmen in the United States and Canada. He first qualified in the national student category, and most recently in the professional category in 2012 and 2013.

“Without Tashima’s inspiration and guiding hand, I possibly would not have achieved many of my accomplishments,” Peñaloza said.

His aunt, Grace Morales, also played a large role by encouraging him when he was younger.

How does Peñaloza come up with his designs?

“To me, my art represents a part of my mind and heart that has come into life in physical form,” he said. “I have been inspired by my surroundings at times too, and I try to comment on what’s going on in the world.”

Peñaloza urges other artists to go beyond their normal limitations.

“Even though we are in the age of technology, I would like to encourage artists to expand their own imaginations in order to surpass their expectations,” he said.

“Don’t Splash Me”

PCC Hall of Fame inducts first class

By STEVE CHOICE

Former Pima softball coach Stacy Iveson speaks at the college’s inaugural Hall of Fame ceremony as former softball players Rebecca Labaack-Sicilian, Nina Lara and Miriam Romero look on.
Photo by Steve Choice.

The Pima Community College Athletics Department honored its past during an inaugural Hall of Fame induction ceremony on April 5 in the West Campus gymnasium.

Numerous players, coaches and administrators were inducted for their accomplishments while at PCC.

A common thread running through the event was memories of Larry Toledo’s leadership. Toledo was Pima’s athletics director for 24 years, and was the initial inductee recognized.

Toledo, who died in 2012, helped start Pima’s athletics department in 1973. Many of the speakers honored him with words of appreciation and respect, including his daughter, Andrea Toledo-Leyva.

Toledo-Leyva’s speech interwove funny stories and happy memories with poignant remembrance.

Also recognized was four-time U.S. Olympian Abdi Abdirahman, an Aztec track and cross-country star in 1995-97.

“A lot of people know me as an Olympic runner, but it all started here at Pima,” he said in his acceptance speech. “I was actually a soccer player at Tucson High, and didn’t run until I got here.”

He recounted how a friend from Pima took him running on a whim. The friend then recommended he join the team, and introduced Abdirahman to Pima’s cross-country coach, Jim Mielke.

“Coach Mielke told me to show up the next day for practice,” Abdirahman said. “I showed up in jeans and boots. I quickly learned that was not how to dress, though.”

Former softball coach Stacy Iveson was also inducted. Iveson led Pima from 2002-07, guiding the Aztecs to national championships in 2004 and 2006.

Iveson compiled an .855 winning percentage at Pima, and established PCC as a softball power. She was NJCAA National Coach of the Year in 2004.

“I have a lot of amazing memories from my time at Pima,” Iveson said after the ceremony. “Certainly that first national championship was very special.

“More than anything, though, I remember the girls I got to coach and the group of people I got to work with.”

Iveson, now an assistant coach at the University of Arizona, stays in touch with many former players.

Her 2004 national championship team was also inducted into the Hall of Fame. When some members came on stage to join Iveson and receive their award, the players’ joy at seeing their former coach was evident.

“It was just amazing to see some of my players,” Iveson said. “We’re all like family. Just a great group of girls.”

A few honorees were unable to attend, including former Aztec basketball star Horacio Llamas. Born in Rosario, Sinaloa, Llamas later went on to become the first Mexican-born player in the NBA.

Eddie Urbano, the first Pima wrestler to win a national championship, died in 2012. He was feted in a funny and moving speech by ex-coach Ed Torrejon, and was warmly remembered by his daughters Elizabeth Urbano and Gabriela Urbano.

Yuliana Rodgers, who competed as Yuliana Perez for PCC’s track and field team in 2001-02, was also inducted in absentia.

Other inductees were Maureen Murphy, who was integral in establishing women’s athletics programs at Pima, former baseball coach Rich Alday, current head athletics trainer Ben Carbajal, the 1980 men’s cross-country team and Mielke.

THE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE Brazilian student learns nursing skills at Pima

By PALOMA MELLO

Ivens Potenza works at Northwest Medical Center as a nurse technician in clinical classes.

Ivens Emanuel Potenza, 29, came to Tucson in 2008 from his hometown of Curitiba, Brazil.

After studying business for four years at Universidade Positivo in Curitiba, he arrived in the United States with two main goals: improve his English and study nursing.

Potenza studied English at the University of Arizona.

“It took me six months to get a hold of the language,” Potenza said. “Besides the ESL classes, I learned by watching movies, listening to songs and interacting with other students and friends. Grammar for me is still a nightmare, though.”

He enrolled in Pima Community College’s nursing program in July 2008.

“I was told that I would have to wait 18 months to enter the program, which made me think of dropping Pima and going to a different school,” he said. “However they called me in less than six months.”

He is now in his last semester of classes at Pima and works as a nurse technician in clinical classes at Northwest Medical Center.

“It’s been hard to conciliate studying with work,” he said. “I wake up studying and I eat studying when I’m not working, but I will not quit until I’m done.”

Potenza said he received an excellent nursing education at PCC, calling the program very thoughtful and serious.

“I have received a couple of job offers, including one at the Northwest Medical Center,” he said.

Once he graduates from PCC in May, Potenza plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Potenza said he often felt homesick while living in a different country without his family and friends.

“Several times I thought about returning home without finishing what I came here for,” he said.

“It’s easier to deal with adversities when you have parents, friends and family all around.”

Although he still thinks about his friends and family in Brazil, Potenza has realized that he can make friends anywhere. He now feels surrounded by lots of good people in Tucson, too.

“I ended up getting married to an amazing woman, Pamela, and we are expecting a baby girl 10 days after my graduation day,” he said.

“The best things about my experience as an international student were the new friendships and the knowledge of a new culture, where I was able to fit right in with some adjustments,” he said.

Student juggles studies between gigs as radio DJ, comedian, model, actress

By PALOMA MELLO

Mishell Livio jokes with her KFMA radio partner Fook. Her work on the “Fook and Mishell” morning show is just one part of the Pima Community College student’s busy life. She also sings and does standup comedy, and has worked in Los Angeles as an actress and a model.

Pima Community College student Mishell Livio, 25, almost won a modeling competition, not just because of her beauty but also because of her sense of humor. She now hosts a show on KFMA radio.

Livio earned sixth place on the first season of Model Latina five years ago. The television reality show spotlights aspiring models who compete in fashion and cultural challenges.

“I’m an actress and I take that to different factors,” Livio said. “I like entertainment and that’s pretty much all I’ve wanted to do since I was a tiny baby child.”

Born and raised in Tucson, Livio comes from a Mexican-Italian family. Her dad is a Mexican mariachi musician who teaches music at the University of Arizona and in the Nogales school district.

Livio knew early on that she needed to move to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams.

“I wanted to move right after high school but I had a scholarship to the U of A, so my mom was like, ‘no,’” Livio said. “I attended for a year, and after I was ready to leave.”

As a 19-year-old living in LA, Livio paid her bills by modeling but found it difficult.

“I knew that I wasn’t gonna give up and I was looking for opportunity everywhere that I went,” she said. “I was trying to meet people and trying to figure out.”

She decided to forego representation.

“You can get a manager and agent, but they are only gonna submit you if you are famous,” she said. “You have to get your own jobs and give your manager 10 percent of something that you did yourself.”

She modeled for Seventeen magazine for two days and was treated like a superstar with her own trailer and people spoiling her. After that, though, she didn’t work for six months.

“It’s just up and down,” she said.

Livio acted in commercials, movies and popular TV shows such as “Talent: The Casting Call,” “Saccularius” and “Days of Our Lives,” among others.

She received the most recognition from “Talent: The Casting Call,” and “Model Latina.”

“I was in LA for about three months when I auditioned for ‘Model Latina,’” she said. “I was looking for ‘America’s Next Top Model’ when I saw an ad for ‘Model Latina’ and I thought that’s pretty much the same thing, but probably easier to get on, and I got on.”

Livio was surprised by the recognition she received because of the show. The TMZ, a popular celebrity news website, once approached her at a karaoke bar.

After five years in LA, she decided to take a break. She returned to Tucson with her boyfriend, Brett Knickerbocker, a Chicago musician and aspiring TV writer.

“They say it takes 10 years to really be successful at something and I was at the five-year mark, so I just wanted to come home and relax,” she said.

“That’s when I got a radio opportunity, so I stayed.”

Livio has a one-year contract to co-host a 6-10 a.m. show on KFMA with Fook, an entertainer.

“I can relax on the radio, nobody sees you, which is weird because I tend to be pretty physical with my comedy,” she said.

Livio has found new opportunities in Tucson, such as recording radio commercials and taking journalism classes at PCC.

“Graduating isn’t my No. 1 priority right now, but eventually I’d love to have a degree for all the years I’ve put in,” she said.

Comedy is also a huge part of her life. Last September, she joined Comedy Corner, a University of Arizona sketch and improvisation team. A month later, she began doing standup at Laff’s comedy club.

“Comedy has been a through line of everything,” Livio said. “That’s probably one of the reasons I got into ‘Model Latina,’ because I was silly. I was funny and different.”

The actress, model and comedian is also a talented singer.

“In 10 years, I hopefully will be touring with some music and maybe a couple of movies in my backpack,” she said.

For further information, visit Livio’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ShellLivio.

Climate change debate heats up

By ANDREW PAXTON

Pima students Efrain Martinez and Jose Gonzalez bundle against the cold during February’s snowy weather.
Photo illustration by Larry Gaurano

Conversation regarding climate change is moving to the forefront, but not all of the attention has been constructive.

Scientists have long been sounding the alarm regarding global warming, telling everyone from the public to politicians that drastic action must be taken to prevent catastrophic changes to the planet’s environment.

The combustion of fossil fuels, namely oil and coal, are contributing to vast changes across the world, from record hot summers and droughts to super-storms and massive floods.

Some people are finally paying heed. They are trying to spread the message and start fighting back against devastating global changes.

President Obama highlighted the need for action during his recent inauguration speech.

 “We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations,” Obama said.

 “Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the raging fires, and crippling drought, and more powerful storms,” he added.

CHANGE DENIERS

One of those denying the overwhelming evidence is Arizona State Sen. Judy Burges (R-Dist. 22). She recently introduced a bill that would allow teachers to characterize climate change education as “controversial.”

Arizona Senate Bill 1213 would have allowed educators to cast doubt on the evidence regarding climate change at a time when more information, discussion and action are needed.

Thankfully, SB 1213 will not become law because the Feb. 22 deadline for bills to be heard in their Senate committees passed without the bill being heard.

But the mentality behind the proposed legislation is still dangerous and needs to be eliminated if progress is ever to be made. Otherwise, snow in Tucson during February may become the new normal.

TAKING ACTION

Politicians aren’t the only ones starting to pay more attention to climate change and the need to take action.

More than 50,000 people turned out in Washington, D.C. during a recent protest of the controversial Keystone XL oil pipeline. The demonstration was billed as the largest climate-related civic action in this country’s history.

WHICH DIRECTION?

Environmentalists view the pipeline as a symbol of a greater problem — the new exploration and availability of cheaper oil technologies, such as Arctic drilling, tarsands and shale oil.

Proponents argue it will bring new jobs and reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil.

Detractors say instead of focusing on new ways to pump oil, businesses and scientists should be investing in and exploring more sustainable energies such as wind, solar, hydroelectric and geothermic-generated power.

Local activist group 350Tucson took part in the D.C. rally, sending delegates to voice their growing concern over the continuing destruction of the planet.

“I can no longer ignore climate change,” said Vince Pawlowski, a member of 350Tucson who attended the rally.

The group is an offshoot of the nationwide 350.org, a “grassroots global movement working to unite the world around solutions to the climate crisis,” according to their Facebook page.

‘SAFE’ LEVELS

The number 350 alludes to the number of carbon particles per million in the atmosphere that scientists regard as “safe” for the planet. The current level is currently more than 400.

The world is slowly becoming hotter, and ocean levels are rising every day as more pollutants are pumped into the atmosphere.

Scientists once hoped to keep the overall global temperature from rising 2 degrees centigrade to prevent increasing weather anomalies.

Most scientists now view that goal as unattainable, given the current political climate in Washington and the competition between developing and industrialized nations regarding pollution emission levels.

This means that the planet will continue to experience global change, and “extreme weather events” will almost certainly increase in quantity. They may also increase in destructive capabilities as well.

People across the world, from tornado-terrorized Joplin, Mo., to Sandy-struck New York and monsoon-less India, have already experienced a devastating example of things to come if action doesn’t happen soon.

PEOPLE POWER

When 50,000 activists marched on Washington to demand change, it was step in the right direction. But marches of 500,000 or 5 million may be needed to wake up the more backward members of Congress and companies like Shell and TransCanada.

Citizens of the world must demand real action to combat what is undeniably a global threat. Petty politics and differences over money and power must be cast aside for the sake of preserving our planet.

“If we act now to reduce carbon emissions, we can avoid the worst effects of climate change,” Pawloski said.

“If we act responsibly, while reducing our greenhouse gases, we can create a future of abundant renewable energy and create all manner of sustainable systems that work for everyone.”

Action must be taken before Tucson begins featuring beachside real estate.