PCC remembers former Courier editor and photographer Michael Watkins

Share: With heavy hearts, the Courier is sad to learn about the passing of former PCC student Michael Watkins that occurred last weekend. Michael was a friend, son, and mentor, and was a shining contribution to the legacy of PCC and the Courier.  Being the phenomenal photographer he was, Michael moved from staff writer to photo editor for the Courier quickly in 2018 and produced quality work to a standard that would be remembered for years to come.  “He found photojournalism at PCC in 2015 …

After 44 years at PCC, trustee John Martin will cruise into retirement

Share: Some call John Martin a walking encyclopedia of Pasadena City College and with good reason; having served on the school’s Board of Trustees for the last 44 years, he knows the entire institution, from top to bottom.  On Oct. 18 at the Board of Trustees meeting, Trustee Martin announced his retirement and his decision to not run for re-election in the 2024 election for his board seat, opening the door for others to take his position after serving on the board at PCC since …

Alum’s books help small fish swim in big pond

Share: Chelo Manchego saw his home country El Salvador as “another world”. His family lived in a gated community due to the dangers in his neighborhood, however, he had his own ways of escaping reality. He spent hours in nature with his friends and loved to be outside as much as he could. In El Salvador, there are earthquakes constantly, so he would make a tent outside because he was convinced it was safer than being inside a building. His family was always supportive of …

Award winning ESL professor teaches through tech

Share: As a college professor and a mother of a 10 year old daughter, Catherine Datko understands how important technology is. From having to use a typewriter to write her papers in college, to now having a cellular device where papers can be written from one’s fingertips, Datko has witnessed the constant improvements technology has had within the past decade. She has always been passionate in helping people which is why she became an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, and through her testimonies …

DACA student fights for those in the shadows

Share: In the early morning on the busy streets of downtown LA back in September, there was a rally put together by members of Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) in the morning in front of the Edward Roybal federal building. There were people slowly driving by in traffic honking at the crowd and waving their hands showing support. Union members, community group leaders from various groups like Undocumedia, allies, as well as LA County supervisor Hilda Solis spoke at the podium, …

Freshman’s knockout ‘triple threat’ skill set

Share: Sporting a number 18 jersey, and standing six feet tall, his eyes dart toward the brown, prolate spheroid-shaped object that quickly dashes through the diamond-shaped grassy area. Playing as a safety and linebreaker, he fends off his opponents who are rapidly dashing toward him. Having an alert mind and strength are two key abilities in this type of scenario, especially where bulky, strong men are charging towards one another.   Follow: