Viking August 1, 2013

CONTENTS

News 2 - 5, 13 CityStyle 6-9 Campus Maps 10 - 11 Sports 12 Graduation 14 PCC 15 Clubs 16 Calendar 17 Opinion 18 - 19 Images 20 August 1, 2013

Volume 87, Issue 1

Published Since 1927

Not-guilty verdict causes discontent

By Jessica De Soto Co-Editor in Chief

The protesters kept shouting ‘move forward, stay united’ while vehicles passed by and honked their horns to show respect and support at the Trayvon Martin protest on Saturday, July 20 in front of Los Angeles City Hall.

According to an article from the Long Beach Press-Telegram, in the aftermath of the acquittal of George Zimmerman, local activists planned a “peace” rally at the Long Beach Superior Court on Friday, July 19.

Protesters rallied across the country since a jury of six women acquitted Zimmerman of second-degree murder and manslaughter charges in the, Feb. 26 shooting death of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed black teenager, during a fight in Sanford, Fla. Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch volunteer, claimed he shot the 17-year-old in self-defense after Martin allegedly attacked and pummelled him, the article said.

Equally important, the African Student Union at Cal State sponsored a rally called the “I Am Trayvon Martin” at Bixby Park, on Sunday July 14.

LBCC students affected by the verdict. Angelica Muro, 22, a child development major, said, “People are outraged and are going out of their way to speak out against this.” The law is flawed and needs to be fixed, she added.

The L.A. protest was a follow- up on the Zimmerman case.

Protester Gilbert Jackson came to

JUSTICE: Protesters chant about the Trayvon Martin case on Friday, July 20 in front of Los Angeles City Hall.

the march that day to see the plan for change and how the protesters who followed were involved can make a difference.

Another protester, Marion Daniels, director of the 3 Day Harvest Prayer Festival, said she was disturbed because the justice system is evidence that in particular sections of this country, it is corrupt and unfair to people of color.

Daniels had the chance to speak out on the day when the jury declared Zimmerman not guilty, and said, “I would cry because it is tragic when human beings fail to regard other human beings as human because they’re different.”

She added, “The verdict that came out of the jury’s mouths let me know that certain voices of evil can take precedence over

Gay marriage evokes powerful change, draws varied responses

By Marcy Lopez Images Editor

LBCC students and students from other Community Colleges have strong views and opinions on same-sex marriage.

In June, the Supreme Court ruling overturned Prop. 8.

Joshua Dunn, 22, a communications major, said, “It is a wonderful thing to see America getting closer to what its original intent was. This country was proclaimed to be the land of the free, yet it has been an ongoing struggle to gain complete freedom..”

“Although we still have a ways to go, this has been a piv-

otal and exciting milestone and one that will be forever remembered.”

Terance Sdoeung, 27, an art history and dance major, said, “Prop. 8 has been a struggle for the gay community to have the rights to get married. Being gay myself, I would like to have the same rights as a heterosexual marriage. I now have hope that one day, I can marry the love of my life.”

The Supreme Court did not legalize Prop. 8. The Supreme Court ruled out that the Defense of Marriage Act, which President Bill Clinton signed into law, was unconstitutional.

Marco Olarte, 22, a business

major at East Los Angeles College, said, “It’s about time it went through seeing as how liberal we as Californians are and how the gay capital of the world is based here.”

U.S. Army soldier Anthony Passno said that, years ago, blacks and whites marrying one another were seen as breaking the law. Now, years later, he said that it has been accepted in society. Passno hopes that maybe in years to come gay marriage would be the same.

He said, “Love is love, skinny, fat, black, white, lesbian, gay.

As long as people are happy and not hurting anyone, it shouldn’t matter.”

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Arieel Alcaraz/Viking

good.”

LBCC student Micheaux Fortson, 36, a communications major, attended another protest in L.A. that started in front of the Westwood federal building and continued with several hundred participants, one group continuing west on Wilshire Boulevard while another faction headed north on Coronado Street.

Even though the protest was

blocked and the police were being aggressive, Fortson wanted to see unity and more people from all walks of life and races coming together.

He said, “We wanted to march all the way to Wilshire and to Venice but the cops ended up blocking Crenshaw at the 10 Freeway. Therefore, we marched onto the freeway until they opened the street.”

By Arieel Alcaraz Co-Editor in Chief

Palafox slammed a 1992 Lexus into a line of three stopped cars in a left-turning lane on Carson Street, police said.

The crash killed Elaine Logay, a 47-year-old mother of two.

Logay was a part-time math teacher at Santa Ana College.

She was struck from behind by the suspect’s vehicle, police said. One other person was transported to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries while another driver was not injured, Long Beach Fire Department spokesman Will Nash said.

Palafox fled the scene and ran onto LAC where he was found by the Auditorium. Palafox was transported to a local hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

Driver to stand trial in fatal car crash near LAC Mario Ivan Palafox, 21, faces a trial on charges of manslaughter and hit-and-run in connection with the May 15 traffic collision that killed a woman near the LAC. Palafox was in court July 11 and was ordered to stand trial with an arraignment date of Thursday, July 25.

Judge Jesse Rodriguez of the Long Beach Superior Court found sufficient evidence to require Palafox to proceed to trial on one count of gross vehicular manslaughter and three felony counts.

The Viking incorrectly reported in the headline May 30 that Palafox faced 15 charges.

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August 1, 2013

EMT student aids hurt patrolman

By Brittany Lieberman News Editor

LBCC student Omar Chavez, 20, an emergency medical technician major, had just finished his first-year emergency medical technician prerequisites when he got the chance to use what he had learned in a motorcycle accident off the 1000 block of Cherry Ave. The Long Beach Press Telegram reported Chavez was turning left into a friend’s driveway around 9:20 p.m., Saturday, June 10, when a policeman on a motorcycle struck Chavez’s driver-side door. “I thought, who or what did I hit? The lane was clear. He tried to go around us, but I was already turning,” Chavez said.

Benjamin Diaz, former Viking, reported that after Chavez made sure he and his girlfriend were not severely injured, he attempted to open his damaged door to tend to the injured patrolman.

The Press Telegram reported the officer flipped from his motorcycle, landing on his back in the northbound lane of Cherry.

Chavez’s EMT training came into play as he proceeded to kick out

Benjamin Diaz/Viking CRASH: LBCC student Omar Chavez, 20, an EMT major, used his medical technician skills on an injured policeman on Cherry Avenue.

his jammed door and help the injured officer. “I saw him lying on the ground from inside my car.

My car door was stuck, I had to kick it open.”

Chavez recalls a golden rule of thumb, “The first thing they taught us in my medical terminology class is if you’re in an accident, don’t move. It might make things worse, especially if you’re already injured,”

The patrolman allegedly accelerated to pass Chavez and another car in between them, striking Chavez’s Volkswagen Beetle driver’s side door.

“He tried to go around us, but I was already turning into the driveway.” More than a dozen police cars arrived on the scene to help Chavez and the patrolman, whose name was not released by the department.

The Press Telegram reported the paramedics took the patrolman to the nearest hospital to be treated for minor body bruising.

The Long Beach Police Department would not comment on the incident or release the name of the officer, but said he is recovering and in good health.

Traffic was redirected for an hour down Cherry while investigation took place. Chavez is

awaiting quotes from his insurance company, but for the time being his yellow 1972 Volkswagen Beetle is too damaged to drive, Press Telegram reports. Chavez said his back hurts and has a bump on his head with some minor bodily bruising. Chavez’s girlfriend suffered minor injuries.

Chavez and his girlfriend were both wearing seat belts and promote all drivers to do the same.

Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) he wanted to pursue his education was not worried about the dead- further, but he said he is aware line saying any legislation that is that many students do not have passed could be made retroactive. that luxury.

“It really placLegislaes an unnecessary tors are movburden on stuing forward dents” said Greg to drop the Langevin, 22, a recent stunursing major. dent loan rate “Student loans are increase. supposed to be a The New reliable option to York Times pay for college.”

–Tracy Bejarano reported that He is confiSenate Financial Aid specialist the dent his nursing passed a bill degree will get on Wedneshim a job after school and will day, July 24, which would drop help him avoid taking out loans if interest rates to 3.9 percent for

undergraduate loans and 5.4 percent for graduate loans. Also, the bill would tie future interest rates to market values, would be fixed over the life of the loan and the bill would be retroactive to July 1. Many key characteristics to the bill passed by the House in May. After 2013 interest rates would start to rise, but the bill sets a cap for undergraduate loan interest rates at 8.25 percent and graduate loan interest rates at 9.5 percent.

The decrease in interest rates is not the end of student loan debt, nor the solution to the increasing cost of education.

This is why Tracy Bejarano, a financial aid specialist at LBCC

said, “I feel students should really be educated to the types and amounts of loans they take out. We walk all of our students through the loan process, and advise them on the best way to apply for loans based on their need. The maximum allowed for a sophomore is $4,500 subsidized and $6,000 unsubsidized for independent students, but not every student needs to borrow the maximum.”

The bill is expected to go before the House in early August where House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) has expressed his approval of the bill with the expectation that it will pass.

to exceed the threshold by approximately 50 percent. For an associate degree, students can take up to 90 units. “Once students hit the 90 units threshold, they are no longer eligible for financial aid,” Avila said.

One person is expected to conduct the presentation, but the name of the presenter varies within the department. The schedule also varies when the Financial Aid office plans a date. The last workshop was held in May. Counselor Marrianne Allen said, “We haven’t sent out anything official yet, so I don’t know when they’re going to be.”

Financial Aid specialist Michelle Pope, said, “Students will soon find out when the workshops are scheduled when the office displays fliers and brochures.

Avila said if the workshop is scheduled, it will begin at 9 or 10 a.m. at LAC and PCC as well making it more convenient for students. The workshop will be roughly two hours. Students will be contacted by email.

To go to the workshop, they must sign up at the Financial Aid office and will receive a slip they need to bring with their ID. The students will be notified by email when the workshop will take place. One of the requirements for the workshop is to bring their education plan. Avila said, “Students should come because it is money and everybody needs money. The worst answer in this case is no,” Avila added.

Students such as Desmond Sanchez, 18, a radio and television major, said, “I never received the email about the workshop.

I recently went to the Financial Aid office to ask them about it, though. I have everything done, it’s really just a waiting game right now.”

Jerry Toliver, 19, a communication major, said, “I always check my email every hour, every day and I didn’t receive an email about the Financial Aid workshop.”

More information is available from Avila at (562) 938-4055 or Javila@lbcc.edu.

Lawmakers try lowering student loan rate

Robert Fullingim Staff Writer

Legislators were unable to reach an agreement before the July 1, 2013, deadline which would have prevented the doubling of student loan interest rates from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent.

The U.S. Senate was focused on immigration reform until June 27, leaving little time to do anything but reject a bill passed by the House. The House passed a bill on May 24 which would have kept interest rates from rising, but the Senate voted it down saying the bill only offered a short term solution.

“Students should really be educated to the types of loans they take out.”

Cigarette ignites trash

Trash can catches on fire in LAC student restroom forcing evacuation.

By Victoria Kim Co-CityStyle Editor A trash can on fire sent students and employees filing out of the T Building and into the parking lot on Wednesday, June 26, at 9:25 a.m.

LBCC student Ivory Ugaitafa, 23, an English major, said, “Well, I thought it was a false alarm, but then we were told to move away and then outside.

We started to smell smoke or something on fire.”

Officer Kevin Stinson of the Long Beach Police Department reported the incident to be an accidental trash can fire in the women’s restroom on campus.

Stinson said the smoke from the fire triggered the emergency smoke alarm and caused the

Student aid sessions planned

If too many units are taken, workshops are needed to keep Financial Aid. Victoria Kim/Viking

building to be evacuated.

Sabrina Kamae, 24, a registered nursing major, said “It’s frustrating because the professor was just about to let us out ten minutes early, but then the alarm went off and we had to stay for a little while.”

Police pulled the trash can out of the restroom, dumped it onto the pavement and extinguished the fire. Stinson closed off the restroom as other officers deferred students from entering.

After a thorough investigation, Long Beach Detective Dennis Zigrang from the arson unit concluded the trash can fire was caused by a lit cigarette thrown into the trash can.

By Michael Nueva Staff Writer Students who exceeded the number of units have to sign up for a workshop, and if they do not attend, they may not receive their grants or loans said Jason Avila, LBCC Financial Aid adviser.

Avila said students must attend because the workshop is to let students know where they stand and find out if they may potentially lose the ability to get the money due to the maximum units they have taken. He said the government puts a limit on the amount of units students can take to receive financial aid for an associate degree program for 60 units, while the transfer program maximum is 90 units. The current government allows the program

August 1, 2013

Credit not open in parking lots

By Brittany Lieberman News Editor

For three weeks this Summer, June 20 through July 15, parking ticket machines at the LAC accept cash and coins.

A connection to the internet is necessary to process all debit and credit transactions, of which the machines will be without for that period.

morning trying to figure out why their cards are not working, anxious they will be late for classes.

“Students only on campus a couple days a week during Summer won’t always buy the pass.

Sandy Sanchez, 24, a dental hygiene major, said, “I can see how it would affect students. A lot either don’t carry cash or don’t have bank accounts because of debt or other issues.”

Although the machines will be back in action for the Fall semester, a light lesson in cash-carrying did some students good.

“I see how it would affect students.

A lot either don’t carry cash or don’t have bank accounts because of debt or other issues”

The LBCC parking services team is working together with the inter campus interactive telepresence system to Parking permit –Sandy Sanchez machines at LAC reprogram all Dental hygiene major are located on the machines that will be accepting west side of parkcredit and debit cards starting in ing Lot J, on Lew Davis Drive the fall. and in Lot E. Parking permits are Scrambling students gath- required at all times and must be er around the machines in the attached to the rear-view mir-

NEWS

Caleb Ellis/Viking PAYMENT BY CREDIT: Laurel Visser, 30, a nursing major, waits for her parking permit to be printed. The automated machines are not accepting credit or debit cards until July 15. “I’ve had to go around trying to break a $20 bill just to get a visitor parking permit. This is crazy.”

ror police say. No grace period is planned to park without a permit or day pass during the summer semester and as always no student parking is allowed in spots marked staff.

Parking permits are available for purchase at the cashier’s office at N104 for $25. However, having a parking pass does not guarantee a parking spot.

Parking spots are available

New buildings at PCC draw attention

By Alondra Murillo Facebook and Twitter Editor

Students are becoming more attracted to the modernized PCC. LBCC student Cinthia Ornelas, 18, a registered nursing student, said, “I think the new buildings are really nice. I like that there is more attention, pushing professors to use current technology that most people are familiar to now.”

The PCC is made up of 25 small and large buildings some of which according to LBCC College Advancement and Public Affairs director Mark Taylor, were once part of Hamilton Junior High in the 1900’s and later turned into part of LBCC in the late 1950’s.

Among these 25 buildings, two are remodeled buildings that were just opened in the Spring, the DD and EE buildings. When students enter the EE building, they automatically see how modernized it has become.

Besides the Campus Store and Student Union being in the EE building, the workshop offices and some classrooms are there as well.

By Arieel Alcaraz Co-Editor in Chief ASB Cabinet members have discussed their plans for the Summer and Fall semesters.

During the meeting in early June, after the members all said what their plans are, the Cabinet

on a first-come, first-served basis and backing into spots is never permitted. Citations will be issued to cars, trucks and mopeds that do not display a current parking permit correctly. The minimum citation fine is $49, said parking officials. The routine of rushing to school minutes before class starts and scrambling for an available parking spot is all too familiar to

most college students.

As always, rules and regulations differ from lot to lot and it is always up to the responsibility of the student to make sure citations are avoided parking officials said. City of Long Beach parking citation information is available through (562) 5706822, and Campus Parking citation information is available through (562) 938-4713.

Text alerts provide emergency updates

Officials working on new email system.

Alondra Murillo/Viking MODERNIZED PCC: Manuel Lopez, 44, a psychology major, walks across the new PCC Student Union building, which was once part of Hamilton Junior High in the late 1900s.

In the workshop offices where many students complete math, English and reading workshops for classes, new computers are connected within each desk that can be flipped, making it easy for students to use a desk in one second and flipping it to turn into a computer desk the next.

According to the lbcc.edu website, the project to turn the

PCC campus into a better educational and modernized school when it comes to buildings and rooms has not been entirely completed.

Some of the buildings now under construction are the AA, BB buildings and CC fitness center, which will take a year and a half more to be fully complete.

members started plans for the semester since two members are returning for the Fall semester.

Former PCC Cultural Affairs Chair Andrea Donado will replace Jason Troia as student trustee while Marco Valencia Mendoza will be ASB president.

There are three more opening positions for ASB Cabinet vice president, treasurer and secretary.

ASB adviser, Derek Oriee had the idea of starting the third week of school with start an election day for students to sign for a

Cabinet member positions.

The Cabinet is still deciding whether to have a special election on the third week of school or the first week.

Oriee said, “I think we should wait until the third week of school.”

However, other members opposed Oriee’s advisement to start the first week of school before students settle in with their classes.

The Fall semester will begin Aug. 26.

Cabinet debating date for special election

ASB leaders disagree with adviser on voting for offices.

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tification system. “I encourage every employee of LBCC to take a few seconds and register for this free service so you will receive a text message in case of an emergency.”

Along with text messaging, he

By Sierra Smith said LBCC will continue to use camStaff Writer pus email, along with text message updates, social media and the school’s LBCC is moving toward a new website to communicate during email notification system for campus emergencies. emergencies, advancing from the Many students at LBCC were not current text messaging alerts. aware about the text message alert “We hope to have the blackboard feature. Eric Navarro, 21, a nursing system online and ready to utilize as major, said, “I had no idea actually. an email mass noI’m fairly new to tification system,” this college.”

Brendan Hayes, He also said manager of envithat it is a good ronmental health idea to have the and safety, said. emergency text “Emergency upmessage alert bedates for Summer cause a lot of tragic won’t take effect events have been until the Fall seoccurring. mester.”

Jenna RodriThe school –Brendan Hayes guez, 19, a nursnow uses text Manager of environmental ing major, didn’t messaging that health and safety know about the allows students to text alert system sign up with their either, but if she cell phone number to receive inforwanted to notify about an emergenmation on emergencies on or near cy, she would like to know “as soon as the campuses. Hayes encourages all possible.” students to sign up for the mobile text LBCC student Harold Johnson, alert feature.

32, a graphic design major, did not The director of college advanceagree about the text message alert. “I ment, public affairs and governthink that’s kind of silly,” he said. “If mental relations Mark Taylor wrote you are a student, your info should ala response to the shooting deaths ready be into the emergency database at Santa Monica College about text because if you don’t know about it, no message alerts. “Recent events at Sanone would be alerted.” ta Monica College provide an unforStudents may sign up for the tunate reminder of the need to plan emergency text alerts on the LBCC for emergencies at LBCC,” he said. web page at lbcc.edu/BusinessSupCurrently, LBCC provides emerport/emergencytextalerts.cfm gency text alerts via the AlertU No-

“We hope to have the blackboard system online as an email mass notification system.”

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NEWS

August 1, 2013

AVIATION UPHOLDING

V. P. quits, officials take new positions

By Jessica De Soto Co-Editor in Chief

Caleb Ellis/Viking MAINTENANCE : Jesse Zavala, 21, and Michael Easley ,28, aviation maintenance majors, pull apart an engine from a small airplane.

This Summer is the last semester LBCC will be offering classes in aviation maintenance. Zavala and Easley are both able to finish the aviation program before it closes.

S & B decreases prices for LBCC students

By Leonard Kelley Staff Writer

The new Food Court provider S&B has lowered prices from what the previous provider Aramark charged.

Coffee is a higher price due to special blends being purchased locally.

S&B offers regular and decaf for coffee $1.25 for 12 ounces and $1.75 for 16 ounces at the Viking Food Court, but at the Nordic coffer stand, prices are up $1.50 for one shot of espresso, two shots for $2.50 and each additional shot will cost 60 cents, $3.70 for four shots.

In comparison, the Star Avenue on 7th Street and Redondo charges $1.95 for two shots and $2.75 for four shots. Students were being charged $2.50 for four shots of coffee by Aramark and gave students a punch card giving away a free coffee of their choice

after 10 punches. The S&B Nordic owner of S&B and has experiCup coffee stand does not offer ence with El Camino, Compton, fresh baked breakfast rolls as Ar- Cypress, Saddleback and Chaffey amark did. S&B sells only pack- Community Colleges and U.C. aged pastries with coffee.

Irvine.

In May, Student Trustee JaAt S&B’s Viking Food Court, son Troia said, “The quality of McDonald said, “They will sell $1 the food will be above the quality corn dogs and tossed salads with given by Araa 5 ounce mark.” chicken Troia also breast made said, “Students to order. should see “a Individlittle cost-savual thrown ings” while of pizzas are the food, with eight inches –Jason Troia with two or LBCC spokesFormer student trustee man Mark three topTaylor added pings costthat S&B Foods ing between understands that students have $6 and $7, large pizzas of 16 incha tight budget and “therefore its es are cut in eight sections and food prices will be affordable.” slices will be $2-$3, a whole pizza Noble Williams, 50, a culinary $10-$12. arts major, said, “S&B has reaThe deli section will be maksonable prices and the selection ing on order sandwiches for $3is good.” Dave McDonald is the $5, a hotline with rotary menu

with something special will be offered or a whole meal and a pasta bar choice of ingredients with drink and cost $6.50.”

David Steffens, 28, a communications major, said, “I was not satisfied with the last food service.

I would like to see a name brand like Subway or Carl’s Jr. like they have at Long Beach State.”

Returning worker Te’ajah Johnson, who has been employed four years at the Food Court, joined her aunt Terry Johnson, who has worked for food service companies such as ASB, PN and Armark.

The aunt has been employed at the Food Court since 1994 and now works for S&B. Terry Johnson said, “Everything is flowing good, prices are great, food is different and more selections.”

Food Court Summer hours will be 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday

They do foot, bike and car patrol.” lit,” Singleton said.

Hayes, said, “The lighting on The blue light system offers campus has improved and will students’ safety by contacting the continue to improve as we move police by phone or by the push of through the bond projects and the a button. renovations of the buildings.”

It is an emergency phone staTr av e l i n g tion located on from the parkcampuses for ing structure students. to the other It can be side of cambeneficial, espus causes pecially for oldmore concern er people befor students, cause, Breauna although poDavis, 18, a thelice escorts ater major, said, are available “not everyone to prevent inmay have a cell –Kim Singleton phone to concidents from Kinesiology major happening. tact the police.”

Many say Other inthey are concidents, police cerned with certain dark spots said, include students keeping around campus at night while up with their valuable posseswalking to class or their car. sions.

“There are a lot of dark secIncidents are more likely to tions that aren’t visible, (for ex- occur when students leave their ample) the Quad, that are not well belongings out in the open, giv-

ing someone the opportunity to steal from another student.

An officer of the LBPD, Kevin Stinson, said, “The biggest problem we have is students leaving things out unattended and they turn up missing.”

Stinson also said, “90 percent of the time that thefts occur is because the students leave things unattended.”

More information on safety awareness may be found in Building X south of Lew Davis Street.

Students may receive further infomation from campus police, additional handouts and important phone numbers for students to acknowledge, in the event an incident ever occurs on campus.

According to campus procedures, for emergencies students may dial from campus 9911, or 911 from their cell phone.

For non-emergencies, students may dial 4910 or (562) 4356711 from their cell phone.

“The quality of the food will be above the quality given by Aramark.”

More police presence suggested on campus

By Taelor Payne Layout Page Editor

Students at LBCC continue to feel unsafe at night on campus.

Many say they want more security, especially during night classes.

Kaylee Sadano, 20, a nursing major who is attending LBCC for the first time, said, “Since I first started here, I haven’t seen that much security.”

According to a handout from Building X on safety awareness, LBPD is available on campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Some students who were interviewed haven’t experienced any incidents.

Kim Singleton, 42, a kinesiology major, said, “I would like to see more presence on campus because the campus is not as visible at night.”

The manager of Environmental Health and Safety Services, Brendan Hayes, said, “There are always police officers on campus.

“I would like to see more presence on campus because the campus is not as visible at night.”

Following months of controversy from students and teachers throughout the discontinuance process, Vice President of Academic Affairs Gaither Loewenstien resigned from LBCC at the end of June.

President Eloy Oakley confirmed the resignation saying to his knowledge, Loewenstein is not seeking a position elsewhere.

Loewenstein, who was hired at LBCC early in 2012 after implementing budget and program cuts at Modesto Community College, has consistently declined to respond to student and staff questions who have implied he was hired at LBCC to do the same.

Eleven programs were discontinued and 16 full-time teachers were laid off this year.

Marilyn Brock, previously the vice president of Academic Affairs at LBCC, has been rehired on an interim basis to replace Loewenstein.

According to an email reply Oakley wrote, “Brock will assume this role until the college successfully completes the recruitment for a permanent vice president of Academic Affairs.

She will also assume the responsibilities of the Dean of CTE. Brock was recently the interim vice president at PCC from February through September 2008.

Other changes at LBCC include the appointment of Meena Singhal as interim associate vice president of the PCC, effective July 1.

The email also stated Singhal has been a valuable member of LBCC since 2000 wherein she first began as an ESL professor.

She also served as interim dean, language arts and dean of the University of Arizona.

Tom To has been appointed as interim associate dean for Career Technical Education.

To began Monday, July 15. He has more than 14 years of experience at LBCC including counseling and student support services.

Oakley said, “I am confident that Dr. Singhal and Mr. To will bring excellence to these vital leadership positions.”

Fiscal Services announced Cindy Baker is the new deputy director of finance and accounting.

Baker was the supervisor in accounts payable and has also served at LBCC for 14 years.

Along with accounts payable, she has worked with grants, categoricals, financial aid, compliance, journal entries, budgets and receivables.

According to a college e-mail, Baker’s knowledge of Community College accounting and experience will help her to be a valuable asset to the college in her new role.

August 1, 2013

NEWS

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LBCC mourns loss of professor and dean First Hispanic administrator and World War II vet dies at 87.

By Shannon Murphy Co-CityStyle Editor

Sierra Smith/Viking “A PLACE FOR EVERYONE:” Interim Associate Vice President at PCC Meena Singhal takes position in her new role with intentions to “hit the ground running.”

Dean rises to PCC V. P.

By Robert Fullingim Staff Writer

Meena Singhal was appointed to associate vice president of PCC on July 1 at LBCC. Her appointment comes in a transitional period at PCC, where the campus has seen major cuts to School of Trade and Industrial Technologies and a new push is being made toward a modernized curriculum.

“I started here at PCC in 2000 as an English as a second language instructor,” Singhal said, “Coming back here is like coming home.”

Singhal has held a number of teaching positions in Canada and the U.S., but her love for teaching goes back to her roots as a volunteer in Calgary, Canada.

She received her master’s in education at McGill University in Montréal before returning to Calgary. After struggling to find work, she decided to come to the U.S. to pursue her doctorate in education at Arizona State University.

It was there she met a friend who introduced the idea of teaching at a Community College. Singhal said, “I really liked the idea of

Community Colleges because of Chris Roquemore, 28, a nurstheir accessibility and affordabili- ing major said, “In theory it’s a ty. They are a place for everyone.” great idea. She would probably Singhal moved into administra- know first-hand what needs to tion in 2004, serving as Dean of be done. I have heard of people Academic Services and as Inter- coming in from other schools or im Dean of Language Art before other professions who don’t fully leaving LBCC in 2012. understand what is going on.”

Working in both adminisOne big advantage Singhal trative and instructional roles, has is the modern buildings and Singhal sees the potential for the equipment, giving PCC the ability PCC. “When I first came here, to offer classes that LAC cannot. these buildings weren’t here. This “The new buildings and techwas a nenology are glected state-ofcampus the-art. that only If we can focused on properly vocationshowcase al educaour great tion.” Sinstaff along –Meena Singhal with ghal says the PCC interim associate vice president new techshe plans to change nology that that. we have here, it gives us the opLBCC Trustee, Jeff Kellogg, portunity to be one of the leading said of Singhal’s plans to expand colleges in the country and maybe the campus, “PCC is not just even better than many four-year growing on the technical side, it universities.” Singhal said. is moving toward a much more “The focus is on more curoverall academic curriculum. Vo- riculum development that won’t cation is one side, and different force students to travel between than the academics. We plan to campuses and to bring more acaexpand both.” demics and resources to PCC.”

“It gives us the opportunity to be one of the leading colleges in the country.”

Raymond Rodriguez, a 16year professor of history and political science as well as a dean of certified personel services at RAYMOND RODRIGUEZ’S BOOK LBCC, died on Monday, June 24 ican Repatriation in the 1930’s,” at age 87 of a heart attack.

Rodriguez was the first Lati- with Professor Francisco Baldeno administrator at LBCC. After rama of Cal State Los Angeles. dropping out of high school his The book studies the anti-Mexsenior year, Rodriguez served in ican discrimination experienced the Navy during World War II. during the Great Depression After the war, he attended LBCC era. The book received an award and Cal State Long Beach where from the Gustavus Myer Center, he earned a bachelor’s degree in which studies human rights iseducation and a master’s in ad- sues.

Apart from teaching, Roministration. He had also earned driguez was a columnist for the another master’s degree in U.S. Press Telegram for 18 years. He history from USC. also wrote Spanish columns for For 35 years, Rodriguez El Economico and Impacto, taught at the elementary, secUSA. Rodriguez’s ondary and campus nickname college levels. was the “task-masGinny Baxter” due to how ter, executive many different director of types of educationthe LBCC al works he was inFoundation, volved in. worked with Mark Taylor, Rodriguez for director of College several years A d v a n cement, RAYMOND RODRIGUEZ spanning his Public Affairs entire career. “He was very compassionate.“ and Government She said, “When I came to the History Department in 1970, Relations, said Rodriguez was he was one of the first to wel- “known as a taskmaster in the come me. He told great stories classroom, but was sought after and the students loved him. He by students as an expert in his field.” was very compassionate.”

“He was a great friend, inspiHe was also the president of ration and mentor to all of Long the Long Beach Chapter of the Beach, ” said Mark Taylor. RodriAssociation of Mexican Amerguez is survived by his wife, Alican Educators, as well as the mira, sisters Angelina Ayala and founder and president of the Mary Johnston, his son Craig statewide California CommuSmith, his daughter Crockett nity College Affirmative Action and five grandchildren.

Consortium.

The Rodriguez family sugRodriguez co-authored the gests donations be made to edubook “Decade of Betrayal: Mexcational foundations.

Campus WiFi: hunt for the best hotspot Some areas deemed better connected than others.

By Braxton Moore Opinion Editor The LAC has some prime places to get WiFi connection.

“Your best coverage is usually where there are large student concentrations,” said Arne Nystrom, senior network administrator, though he warns that the age of the device in use and the age of the building itself both affect the WiFi strength greatly.

Nystrom assures that newer buildings are built with wireless in mind and updates to the access points are currently under way, alongside the recent construction.

Braxton Moore/Viking Excludes buildings O1 (5 access points), O2 (3 access points), X (5 access points) and Z (3 access points). Source: Arne Nystrom, senior network administrator.

CITYSTYLE

6

August 1, 2013

Victoria Kim/Viking CELEBRATION: Co-workers and students help themselves to food on a colorfully lit stage, exchanging memories and sharing laughs.

Victoria Kim/Viking SENTIMENTAL: Retiring theater production manager Steve Aston sits along side the same three Furby’s that have sat on his desk for all 30 years of his career at LBCC.

Manager makes final curtain call

By Braxton Moore Opinion Editor

Steve Aston, the go-to production manager for any theater presentation at LBCC, has decided to retire after 30 years.

While this kind of change is enough to bring anyone down, among the friends and colleagues attending his auditorium-set retirement party Thursday, June 26, not a frown or sign of woe was in sight.

A close friend and former

student of Aston, performing er, summed up the smiles of the arts administrative assistant party on stage by adding, “All he Esteban Morewants is no helped shed to be able knowledge on to talk to the feel-good atthem (the mosphere, saying former the one thing Ass t u d e nt s ) ton wanted was and share a to be surrounded little bit of –Diana Perry food, you by former stuFormer theater student know and dents, Moreno, havhave a little ing a bottomless pocket of com- bit of good times.” pliments to pay his former teachIt seemed no one was exempt

“There’s not even words for how grateful I am to Steve.”

Comedians stand up for freedom of speech

from smiles at the party. Not even his youngest guest, Delilah Perry, 3, who basked in the rainbow colored lights. Although Delilah didn’t have much to say, her mother, Diana Perry, had great things to say about Aston.

“My best memory of Steve is whenever everything was just complete chaos and falling apart, Steve was always just calm. There’s not even words for how grateful I am to Steve.” Perry said.

Reflecting on his time at LBCC and being a part of the theater, al-

together, Steve says, “There’s a lot of things that I will miss.

“Probably, most of all, for all these years I’ve seen countless students work on this stage and see their passion ignited the same way mine was.”

“The only thing that I suggested that Steve do,” Moreno said, “is to light the ghost light at the end of the night, which is a tradition.

“Whoever is the last one out of the theater is to plug in the ghost light, lock all the doors and you’re out of here.”

American Legion to host charity event.

Commander Bill Miller of the American Legion in Long Beach said, “We have it penciled in for the 31st, but some details still

By Victoria Kim have to be worked out.”

Co-CityStyle Editor The show is to be called “The Freedom of Speech” comedy show The American Legion of Long and will be at the American LeBeach is working conjunction gion Post at 5938 E. Parkcrest St. with Heroes of Life Inc., to bring in Long Beach. Tickets will be $5 comedians Chris Simpson, Aure- at the door and free for active millio Bocanegra and Eljaye Monte- itary in uniform. negro to Long Beach on WednesThe headlining comediday, July 31 at 8 p.m. for a night of ans have performed all over the comedy and charity. country and Heroes of even for Life, based in U.S. troops.

Pacoima, is a Simpson has non-profit orworked with ganization deGeorge Lovoted to keeppez, Chris ing youths out Tucker and of the streets –Shane Coleman Carlos Menby teaching Heroes of Life director cia. and mentoring Two-time them in areas Air Force vetsuch as music production, song- eran Bocanegra has performed in writing, video editing and per- the “Cholo Comedy Slam,” “No forming arts.

Laugh Track Required” and was Shane Coleman, director of the lead role in the 2012 movie Heroes of Life, said, “We want to “Death of a Gangster.” Montebring Heroes of Life to the Long negro has made appearances on Beach community, but it costs Disney’s “Zeke and Luther,” “Hip money for the teachers and the Hop Harry,” and “The Young and programs and all the equipment.” the Restless.”

Coleman said the money Chris Joseph, 20, a business raised at the comedy show will marketing major, said, “I hope help to make that possible. they pull through with this. Eljaye The American Legion is a na- is hilarious. I’m just really excited tional U.S. veterans’ service orga- for this event.” nization focused on mentoring For more information on the youth and promoting patriotism charities, the websites are Heroeand honor in the community. soflife.org and legion.org.

“We want to bring Heroes of Life to the Long Beach community.”

Caleb Ellis/Viking ON AIR: Keith Huss, 34, a radio and television major, rehearses inside the KLBC.org radio station.

Losing master control Music, radio, TV programs affected.

By Shannon Murphy Co-CityStyle Editor In response to hard financial times the Board of Trustees has continued to implement new cutbacks.

The cutbacks will eliminate classes as well as resources. One such resource being cut is master control. Master control oversees all the G Building music studios and both radio stations.

In addition to providing technical assistance and maintaining a schedule for use of G Building equipment. LBCC boasts two radio stations, KLBC and KCTY. The stations each contain thou-

sands of dollars’ worth of equipment. Students enjoying the radio program need to be free to come and go from the stations as their disk jockey duties demand it. As a result master control’s staff is constantly unlocking doors and providing access to equipment.

The concern is that without oversight from current master control system, the radio program will be left vulnerable. In addition to being official representatives of LBCC, the stations are also subject to the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. A fine from the FCC could bankrupt the stations and embarrass LBCC. The stations combats the problem by maintaining a record of everyone who enters the station, disc jockeys are required to

turn their student identification in to master control as well as the names and information on any guests they bring in.

The system ensures accountability and protects the stations and LBCC. As of June 27, no clear system has been established to replace the function of master control.

Studio lab assistant Dario De Santiago has worked in master control for 13 years and he wonders what will happen when he and his colleagues aren’t there to provide oversight to the programs that remain.

“What are you guys (students) going to do? That’s my question.”

And it’s a question being asked by all the programs that have come to rely on the master control system.

CITYSTYLE

August 1, 2013

Film Fest turns heads yet again Students make LBCC movie magic with screenings at Art Theatre.

By Jessica De Soto Co-Editor in Chief

Alondra Murillo/Viking DISTRACTION: Jolinda Soto, 33, a business management major, and Kimberly Torres, an undecided major, walk in front of the LAC Quad while they check their phones.

Texting causes accidents

Students fail to look where they are going.

By Alondra Murillo Facebook and Twitter Editor Bumping into people, crashing into poles and tripping are some accidents that can be caused by texting while walking.

Eric Diaz, 18, an art major, said, “I remember one day that I was trying to walk and text at the same time, I bumped into a pole.”

According to studies in Maryland, listening to full loud music is safer than texting while walking most of the time.

When listening to music, the

ears are zoned out but the eyes are attentive to what is ahead, when the other hand, when texting and walking neither ears nor eyes have full attention of what is going on around people.

In the study, it was concluded that people crossing the street while texting take about 18 percent longer to cross rather than a person walking while listening to music.

It was also shown 60 percent of texters cannot walk straight

while texting. At LBCC, students are constantly apologizing for person-to-person collisions and students are seen bumping into objects as well.

Some texters deny the fact that texting and walking is dangerous and argue that it is manageable, but indeed it –Eric Diaz is a dangerous Art major distraction.

In 2011, in Baltimore, 331 accidents were reported as “reckless and inattentive” texting and walking accidents.

“I remember one day I was trying to walk and text at the same time, I bumped into a pole.”

The LBCC Department of Theatre, Dance and Film teamed up with the ASB to present the 7th annual Film Fest on Sunday, June 2 at the Art Theatre in Long Beach.

S e v e n narrative films and two documentaries were directed by LBCC film majors and shown by Chris Muller, Matt Kirn, Steven Suarez, Michael Anthony, Antonio Brown, Fabi Lima, Nick Johnson, Stephanie Guzman and Gregory Preston.

The last narrative film shown, “Rust” was about a hopeless marriage and a man struggling with Dissociative Identity Disorder who tried to piece together his actions before it’s too late.

Muller had won the best narrative award for his film.

He said, “The whole idea was to be visual, so the best thing that I can think of, since there was no dialogue.

I just thought of visual things that would be able to grasp on to and to be memorable. And that’s what drove me to a weird storyline like that,” he added.

“The Arduous Obligatory Act of Cuddling” directed by Kirn illustrated similar scenes on how a

7

male is obligated to cuddle after intimacy, but tries to escape.

“In Your Arms” directed by Suarez explained how a U.S. marshall tracked down a wanted felon and his companion, a girl with a troubling past.

“Mythos”, directed by Brown reflected on a, pedestrian, like nature within the characters and the chosen dialogue that separated the scenes.

“Paralysis” directed by Lima showed a girl who struggled to wake while in the midst of sleep paralysis and strange unwanted ghosts began to enter her bedroom.

“Sweet as Cute” directed

by Johnson was about Jessica, a sweet girl in fact who was proposed to.

She then later finds out –Chris Muller her fiancé was Film major cheating on her the whole time.

Documentaries “Timoteo” and “Brainstorm” were next. “Timoteo” directed by Guzman, shined light on her grandfather Timoteo Guzman.

After a late night accident, the effects of old age had only added to his hardships and family struggle for hope was challenged when he was taken and cared for at a senior medical nursing facility.

“Brainstorm” directed by Preston illuminated the fact that sometimes to find the answers to questions people have to make a chance in them.

All students who are interested are encouraged to participate in next year’s festival.

For more information, people may contact the department at (562) 938-4563 or tdf.lbcc.edu.

“I just thought of visual things that would be able to grasp on to and to be memorable.”

Welding program cut after just two years in new building

By Marcy Lopez Images Editor

whether it is in education or anything else they decide.”

PCC’s welding program is beWelding is one of the PCC ing housed in a state-of-the-art vocational programs that will no building that is only two years longer be offered in the fall due to old. budget cuts.

While other schools are inIn January, the LBCC Board creasing their programs, LBCC is of Trustees voted to accept the decreasing its programs. recommendaNo one is tion to disconyet sure as to tinue 11 of LBwhat will beCC’s programs. come of the Student building and Trustee Jason the tools.

Troia had arG u s – Larry Gustafson tafson said gued that the Welding teacher discontinuance the building of the programs might be were unnecessary. leased to the Long Beach Port.

Troia said, “I cannot under- The welding building has 35 stand why they are cutting some working stations, 20 tig stations of the best vocational programs.” and eight flux stations.

Larry Gustafson, an LBCC In the Spring of 2013, day welding teacher has been a profes- classes had about 80 students atsional welder since 1964 has been tending with about 60 more in the teaching at LBCC for 13 years he evening. will be retiring this Summer.

Three were offered and inGustafson said, “I wish all stu- cluded a four hour lab. There were dents good luck with their future four evening classes with a four

“I wish all students good luck with their future”

Alondra Murillo/Viking DISTRACTION: Brett Arnold, 39, a robotic electrical program major, uses a small torch at his welding station. Arnold sits inside PCC’s two year old, state-of-the-art welding building.

hour lab as well. As part of the program, students learn how to cut steel on their own along with fitting and welding. Gustafson

said, “We encourage our students to get a four-year degree.” Students will no longer be able to earn a vocational certificate from

LBCC welding department. Gustafson said, “I am a little upset, not because of me, but my concern is the students.”

CITYSTYLE

8

August 1, 2013

Student trustee wants board answerable

By Elizabeth Cheruto Calendar Editor

fight for a better education for Californians. She said education is what keeps society working.

Andrea Donado, 28, a gender Donado said America needs studies major, said she is an activ- to be leading the world in educaist and has a passion for fighting tion, and the state should make for other people, especially the education available and affordable less privileged, the minorities and to everyone. the poor.

She said the bar was set high In 2011, she enrolled at the by former ASB Student Trustee PCC to continue studying English Jason Troia, “who did a remarkas a second language while major- able job.” ing in gender She said studies. the tasks She said which lie her involveahead will ment as a not be easy student leaddue to coner started –Andrea Donado flicting intera year ago Gender studies major ests between when the students and Board of the Board of Trustees recommended cutting Trustees, but she said she is ready the ESL program. for the challenges ahead.

She organized a peaceful “As the newly elected ASB studemonstration and was able to get dent trustee, I will ensure that the the required number of signatures Board is answerable to the stuto challenge the board. dents. I will be their voice and I Donado said the demonstra- will advocate for them,” she contion’s success inspired her to want cluded. to be a student representative.

Donado was born in New She became the PCC presi- York but moved with her family dent of Cultural Affairs and at- to Colombia at a young age. tended all the Board of Trustees She lived there for 18 years meetings. She said her goal is to during her youth and then moved

“I will be the students’ voice and I will advocate for them.”

Elizabeth Cheruto/Viking PASSION: Andrea Donado, 28, a gender studies major, is the newly elected ASB student trustee.

She ran unopposed last semester.

to Argentina for five years to study film.

After Argentina, she moved to Germany for one year to study the native language while working as a nanny.

Donado then moved back to the U.S. and lived in South Beach,

FENCE COMES DOWN

Elizabeth Cheruto/Viking Ernesto Mendoza works for C.S. Legacy Construction, Inc. to bring down the fence at the LAC Front Quad on Thursday, July 18. The company worked on the landscape, fencing and sidewalk paving and fenced the grass last semester to allow the grass to grow without interruption.

Club denies student access to L.A. Pride

By Victoria Kim Co-CityStyle Editor

Long Beach resident Michael, who did not want to give his last name, 22, was denied the opportunity to volunteer for LBCC’s E.Q.U.A.L.I.T.E.E. club at Los Angeles Pride on Saturday, June 8.

The E.Q.U.A.L.I.T.E.E. club, founded February of this year, stands for “Encouraging qualmless unity through awareness, leading individuals towards equality, everywhere.”

Lauren Christine Ho, 25, an undeclared major and E.Q.U.A.L.I.T.E.E. club president said, “E.Q.U.A.L.I.T.E.E. promotes social justice for all people, regardless of their sex, gender, religious background, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. We are a group of students who have united to fight against the social injustices in our environment and throughout our communities, we work together to create more possibilities for the underprivileged

and for the misunderstood.”

The E.Q.U.A.L.I.T.E.E. club created the public facebook event “Make Some Noise at Los Angeles Pride” on Monday, June 1. The event focused on collecting signatures to pass the Youth Equality Act and called upon willing volunteers to fill remaining shifts.

Michael said, “I wanted to volunteer at L.A. Pride but one of the members sent me a message and made it clear she did not want me there.”

In the message, Michael said he was asked not to show up for the event due to past conflicts with a person he mistook as a current member of the club. He said he contacted another member about volunteering for a Saturday shift but did not receive a response.

“I signed several people up for several different volunteer shifts and Michael was one of them,” said Ho, “I recall receiving a phone call from him the morning of his shift during which he

informed me he would be unable to attend.”

Ho was in charge of organizing over 50 volunteers for the festival and said she was unable to stay on the phone with Michael long enough to hear the entirety of the situation.

Club member Donna Lee, 21, a psychology major, said “I was not aware of this situation. To deny a L.B. resident their opportunity to volunteer at a L.A. pride event defeats the purpose of this club and goes against what we stand for.”

Lee added, “I have met each individual member and they all have good hearts and intentions.

I highly doubt one of our current members rejected someone from participating at LA. pride.”

Ho said, “This is the first time that I am hearing the full extent of the issue and I intend to make it clear to all of my members that it is unacceptable to tell anyone ever that they cannot participate in one of our open events.”

Miami while studying English.

She loved living in Miami.

She found love with a California woman who accompanied her to Long Beach, California.

She said she is happy in her current relationship.

Purple is her favorite color

and she is a vegetarian. Her hobbies include watching classical movies and traveling abroad.

She said she enjoys traveling to learn about different cultures, gain a better world perspective and observe the ways people live.

By Michael Nueva Staff Writer

ence pressure difference, air properties, physics and math.”

He added, “That much of what they do is abstract, but a learning center is available for students who need it.”

DiGiovanni said, “Due to the physical demands, the program did not attract many women.”

Joe Pastora, 56, an air conditioning and refrigeration major, said, “I enjoy the program because it’s hands-on.”

Laine Blanchard, 33, an air conditioning and certificate major, said, “The program is good and students learn how to trouble shoot different technical problems and the science behind it.”

Program discontinued LBCC Air Conditioning and Refrigeration professor, Dennis DiGiovanni, said, “The program will discontinue at the end of the Summer semester.”

DiGiovanni said, “Despite discontinuance, there is always work demand for it and the employment opportunities are unlimited.”

He added, “That the students could choose different areas to work in the field, either on restaurant equipment, control of the systems or designing the system.”

DiGiovanni said, “The skills required for the program are sci-

CITYSTYLE

August 1, 2013

Musicians ‘live in the sun’ Alternative, rock, blues fill Di Piazza.

By Jessica De Soto Co-Editor in Chief

Jessica De Soto/Viking SELF-TAUGHT: Marcus Chavez, 24, a music major, is the lead singer of DoZeGuyZ. Chavez and his band performed a rock and bluesinfluenced song as he takes the center stage with his guitar.

Alternative, rock and blues music filled the bar atmosphere with music at Di Piazza in Long Beach on Saturday, June 29 at 7 p.m.

LBCC student Marcus Chavez, 28, a music major, was the main singer for the band DoZeGuyZ that night. Chavez normally goes by his stage name Chowdy.

Other students who performed were Travis Christopherson, who played the drums, Brendan Vasquez played the bass, Chris Summer was the lead guitarist and Brandon Baker, who played the sax.

Christopherson, 28, a music major, said, “Yes, I performed that night. I would advise young artists to study their craft and love it and be diverse with the skill sets you have. Record and produce your own stuff and learn how to produce a good product.”

He added, “Learn from other musicians. I’ve been playing sax since 5th grade and drums since 8th grade. I did a lot through high school and did band classical and

24 Vikings of decade honored at 85th anniversary celebration Arieel Alcaraz Co-Editor in Chief

To see how much of this community has grown around LBCC and to recapture their finest moments at LBCC, returning Viking alumni, students, employees and community members assemble Thursday, May 30 for an anniversary gala in the LAC Hall of Champions.

During the opening, Public affairs and government relations Mark Taylor introduced Trustee Roberto Uranga, to come up to the podium to give a speech about his finest memories of LBCC. Uranga said, “I am proud to serve and to see the growth and see the success and the population.”

9

The words of advice he gives to current and future students is to study hard, stay focused, and follow the light to be successful.

Gala Co-chair Lori Brault inducted a presentation to honor the Vikings of the Decades and the Hall of Fame members from the 1930’s to 2000’s.

Brault started from the 2000’s, naming Alexandra Escobar, Sam a n t h a Sears, and Blas Villalobos.

From the 1990’s, she also announced David Coher, Pamela Hale, and –Roberto Uranga Sara Trustee Mark Neal.

In addition, Brault announced 1980’s Brian Russel, C.C. Sadler, and Janeen Steel, 1970’s Josephine Fitzpatrick, Marty Hartstock, James Poper, Naomi Rainey.

She continued on with 1950’s Grace Carroll, Gary Fox, and Frances Keys. Bob Ellis, Freda Kingsbury and Barbara Zunich were named Viking of the Decades of the1940’s.

When Brault reached the 1930’s, only Leamel Comparette and Robert Wilson were recognized. Leamel Comparette did not attend so when Wilson moved from his chair to walk up to the podium to receive his plaque, the audience gave him a standing ovation.

Eighty-five years ago, Long Beach Junior College was founded at Woodrow Wilson High School.

It remained there until the 1933 earthquake, which destroyed the building.

From its earliest days, the college established traditions that are alive today, such as the mascot, Ole, and team name, Vikings.

LBCC has been at the heart of the community providing educational programs with a com-

able at a separate charge for 21 years old and up who were welcomed to the beer gardens provided by Beachwood BBQ & Brewing and Congregation Ale House near south stage.

The Harvelle’s Blues Club at 207 E. Broadway hosted additional performers that day and the official post-event jam sessions.

Funk Fest consisted of live paintings, pop-lock dance, fire dancers and other activities such as Kid’s zone of funkativity.

Charles Wright, known for his song, “Express Yourself,” and the

Watts 103rd St. Rhythm Band, Blackbyrds and Funk Angels who performed.

Bernie Worrell, Henry and the Invisibles and the Circle City Band, Shuggie Otis performed as well. Julie Korinke, the communication manager at the Downtown Long Beach Associates said, “The reason we started this music fest is to really bring the people to Downtown Long Beach.”

Joann Harris, 48, a child development major, said she loves the Long Beach Funk Fest and looked forward to the event.

“I am proud to serve and to see the growth, and see the success, and the population.”

jazz choir.”

“Other than that I taught myChavez found out about the self mostly and when I was young gig through Craig Crump who I joined a worship group where called him to perform because he I learned names and chords,” he was throwing a release party for said. his new band Juke Box Nickles.

“I think the first thing if you Chavez want to start a has been playband is to put ing since high yourself around school and was like minded a student with and goal orienLBCC retiree tated musicians Tom Dustman. and practice,” “After I Chavez said. traveled quite The business has a bit, busking no guarantees, corners, imhe added. proving vocals Chavez said, and riffs to get “Have a backup people’s at–Marcus Chavez while be willMusic major ing to starve tention from Wa s h i n g t o n for your dream, state to Texas, armed only with thirst for your dream and become my ‘Mr. Potatoe’ guitar, after fall- your dream.” ing out with an old label, it was He honestly doesn’t know how the only thing I had left. he can see himself ever not play“It worked for awhile and was ing and making music, he said. To extremely fun but it was not a sta- play music is something that is a ble form of living,” he added. part of some people to be happy, His musical roots stemmed Chavez added. from his father. They used to take “I, like everyone, just want to trips to their grandmother’s house live in the sun,” he said. and his father would, what would To listen to DZGZ music, be referred to in the jazz commu- people may visit their facebook nity as, ‘Skat’, a melody and had at facebook.com/DZGZlbc or Chavez repeat his melody to train youtube at youtube.com/results?his ear. searchquery=dozeguyz.

“Have a backup while be willing to starve for your dream, thirst for your dream and become your dream.”

Arieel Alcaraz/Viking HAPPY BIRTHDAY: College officials and alumni join Vikings of the decade together to celebrate LBCC’s 85th anniversary on Thursday, May 30.

mitment to excellence in student learning in a culturally diverse and vibrant environment.

As one of the largest of the 112 Community Colleges in California, LBCC is governed by the five-member, elected LBCC district Board of Trustees.

They serve the cities of Long Beach, Signal Hill, Lakewood and Santa Catalina Island.

President Eloy Oakley acknowledged that LBCC history has many opportunities to face.

He said,” I look forward to another 85 years at LBCC.”

Harris also mentioned, “The barbecue vendors are one of my favorites spots to visit at the Funk Fest, funky live music great food and friendly faces are a great way to end my 4th of July weekend.

I found out about the Funk Fest from a flier a few years back when I decided to come back to LBCC.” Business owner Chavonna Larkin is also a Funk Fest lover.

Larkin is a wife and mother of three and has been going to the Funk Fest since Long Beach started it in 2009.

Larkin said, “I would say the

best part is the activities for the kids, because at that point mommy gets to enjoy herself and the kids love the arts and to see all the cool dancers and really just run around and play. So this year, the kids zone will definitely keep them occupied.” Larkin mentions, “I know this year would be outstanding. Every year they out do the previous year, it just keeps getting better and better than the year before.”

To receive more information about the event, people may visit the website at lbfunkfest.com.

Fireworks help create festive atmosphere at L.B. Funk Fest

Event draws diverse crowd Downtown.

By Jessica De Soto Co-Editor in Chief

LBCC students were geared up for the fifth annual Long Beach Funk Fest on Saturday, July 6.

Live DJ sets and firework shows lit the main stage. The fireworks started at 9:30 p.m. and launched from the parking structure located on 3rd Street.

Food and drinks were avail-

LONG BEACH CITY COLLEGE

10

Pacific Coast Campus

August 1, 2013

1305 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, Calif. 90806 (562) 938-4111

lbcc.edu

facebook.com/lbcitycollege

twitter.com/lbcitycollege

Grant helps create business openings LBCC gains assistance from Ohio college and Kauffman Foundation.

By Carlos Chacon Staff Writer Adding to its menu of economic development programs, LBCC has been granted the opportunity to help launch job-creating technology start-ups in the region through an entrepreneurship funding program.

The program experienced a successful run of the program at Ohio’s Lorain County Community College and in partnership with the Ewing Marlon Kauffman Foundation through the non-profit Innovation Fund America.

LBCC’s Lou Anne Bynum, executive vice president of college advancement and economic development, said program representatives came to the college for a site visit to see firsthand the economic efforts in Long Beach.

According to an article, as

part of the pilot program the Kauffman foundation and Lorain County Community College will provide LBCC with technical assistance to achieve the investment goals of the program fund.

Cindy Rodriguez, 27, a new student, said the pilot program is definitely something she would consider: “Having those options available is a good thing, you know you want to start a business of your own.”

Lisa Prayer, the secretary to the new pilot program, said, “LBCC is being provided assistance from Lorain and from Kauffman. They are helping set up a sustainable infrastructure for us to raise funding from our -Lauren Arratia community Nursing student to essentially pay it forward and build and grow the business talent we have here.”

Lauren Arratia, 20, a nursing student, said, “It’s a good idea for those who want to take the course and might consider it.”

While LBCC is still working out the detailed criteria for program applicants, the college is looking for first-time entrepreneurs who have not yet received an investment from an organization.

“It’s a good idea for those who want to take the course.”

Taelor Payne/ Viking TASTY ENTERPRISE: Edward Garcia, 20, a mechanical engineering major, buys himself snacks at PCC’s food truck. Due lack of cafeteeria as a result of construction food trucks find buisness opportunities.

Until the end of 2014, LBCC hopes to provide three to four $25,000 grants and one $100,000 interest-free loan on a quarterly basis. The loan would be paid back to replenish the fund.

The first cycle of funding should begin this Fall, said Jesse Torres, director of the Los Ange-

les Regional Small business development center Network based out of LBCC. Jessica Orantes, 20, a music major, had not heard of the new program, however, she said it would be great for her because she would like to start a psychology business.

The entrepreneur program is focusing on partnership development and raising the money for the fund itself. While seed funding will benefit startups, the program is not intended to replace other funding sources in the Los Angeles region.

LONG BEACH CITY COLLEGE

August 1, 2013

lbcc.edu

Liberal Arts Campus

11

4901 E. Carson St., Long Beach, Calif. 90808 (562) 938-4111

facebook.com/lbcitycollege

Parking Parking is free in student stalls only from Aug 12 through Sept. 8. Parking permits may be purchased in the cashier’s office on either campus to avoid parking tickets after Sept. 8.

Parking passes are $1 per day at a ticket dispensing machine or $25 for the semester at the cashier’s office. Students on Financial Aid may buy a parking permit for $20.

The cashier’s offices are located on the LAC in A1081 and at PCC in MD143.

Students also have the option of purchasing a parking pass online through the Peoplesoft system. A student who chooses this purchasing option will have their permit mailed to their address on file.

Fines for illegally parking on LBCC are $49 issued by the city of Long Beach.

Parking enforcement is strictly enforced seven days a week.

Campus police offer an escort service to students at night.

Students requiring an escort should call campus police at (562) 938-4910.

twitter.com/lbcitycollege

Important information to know uDropping off students on Faculty Avenue on the west side of campus is banned.

Police enforcement was extremely high in recent semesters. uSmoking is authorized only in designated smoking areas. Students are encouraged by officials to clean up after themselves to prevent smoking being banned campuswide. uRiding skateboards on LBCC is banned and subject to a ticket. uBypassing the pedestrian bridge and jaywalking across Carson Street, is not only dangerous, but illegal, police said. Students caught are subject to a ticket for as much as $200.

SPORTS

12

August 1, 2013

Legendary track coach retires at USC

By Dionna Henry Sports Editor

Dionna Henry/ Viking SET, SPIKE, MATCH: The potential volleyball team scrimmages in the LBCC small gym in building Q.

Fifteen make the cut

By Dionna Henry Sports Editor

During the 2012 season the LBCC women’s volleyball team ended with a record of 12-10, finishing in fourth place in the Southern California Conference, South Coast region, and fifth overall in the South Coast.

Preparing for the 2013 season coach Suzie Witmer conducted tryouts for the team.

The first day of tryouts consisted of a mile run, intense weight training, abs workout and scrimmages.

Witmer has been coaching at LBCC since 2006. She said she is looking for players who have heart, a great work ethic, and players who are coachable. When talking about what she expects from her team, she said, “We expect them to lead by example and be overall good people.” She is excited for the upcoming season and confident about the new

players. three sets, had six serving received Witmer said, “These women successes, 11 serving received erare probably the most talented in- rors, and 3.7 receptions per set. coming players.”

She said she finds the whole tryNikki Moe also returns for her out process intimidating but she second year as assistant to Wit- loves the sport. mer. Moe Vashti Nettles, was a part 19, a player on last of the team years’ team and is in 2007 trying out again. and 2009.

She ended the She said, 2012 season with “The team 1.6 overall points needs to per set, 1.22 kills -Suzie Withmer communiper set, 0.61 blocks Coach cate better per set and a hitwith each ting percentage of other if they want to get their .186. She said, “We are definitely main goal of being inducted into going to ball out this year.” the Hall of Champions.”

The team will be chosen by Most women who try out are Thursday, July 18. from local high schools. Daniella The Vikings officially beSanchez, 18, a nursing major, is gin their season Friday, Aug. 30, from Mayfair High School. with a non-conference match in Sanchez played on the Mon- the Cerritos Scrimmage Tournasoons girls volleyball team. Her ment. LBCC has its home opener senior year stats are unavailable, Wednesday, Sept. 4 against Goldbut for her junior year, she played en West.

“These women are probably the most talented incoming players.”

A.D. joins LBCC

By Victoria Kim Co-CityStyle Editor

Joe Cascio started as LBCC’s new athletic director Monday, July 15.

“July is an extremely busy month for Community College athletics, so my first day I basically hit the ground running,” Cascio said.

Cascio was project manager for the athletic department at Santa Monica College for three years and spent three years prior as the associate head coach of its men’s basketball team.

Michaelah Brown, 21, an undecided major and middle blocker for the women’s volleyball team, said, “Joe was very chill and welcoming. He seems like a very cool guy.”

“I feel Joe will bring the same excellent leadership to LBCC as he demonstrated at Santa Monica College,” Dean of Student Affairs, Kinesiology and Athletics Connie Sears said.

Gregory Peterson, vice president of Student Support Services said, “President (Eloy) Oakley, Executive Vice President Lou Anne Bynum and I were all very impressed by the leadership Joe

After 50 years of coaching former LBCC coach Ron Allice has decided to retire from USC. Most current LBCC students might not know of Allice, but he left his mark on campus. He was inducted into the LBCC Hall of Fame in 1988 for his coaching in track and field.

His coaching career does not stop at LBCC, he has also coached track and field for Long Beach Poly High School, Franklin Middle School, Compton High School, Long Beach Wilson, Cal State Long Beach, Cal Poly Pomona and USC. Allice has produced more than 300 All American athletes, about 40 Olympians not including those who only made it to trials, and multiple record holders.

The most important thing that Allice wanted his athletes to understand was, “As an individual you need to work to perfect your technique so that you can be the best you can be, because there is no one else to help you.”

He said, “Sports is like a rollercoaster some days you can be great and get first and other days you might lose, but you still have to work.”

No matter a player’s athleticism, race or religion, they all have the ability to be great, he said.

Allice said, “The most exciting experience as a coach is to see people perform to their abilities.”

He said people will never see him at a finish line or in that winning picture with his athletes because he believes that is their

RON ALLICE Coached 40 Olympians

moment that they have worked hard for.

In his coaching career, Allice coached at all the places that he went to school.

He is adamant about keeping his roots sowed in Long Beach he said, “My life is Long Beach. I was born in Long Beach and maybe this is where I will be buried.”

Now that Allice has retired, he said it is his obligation to give back to the people of Long Beach who need his assistance.

Allice said his biggest support system is his family, “They are a tremendous support.” Allice plans to spend more time with his sons and daughter and grandchildren.

Allice’s sons are Lance and Sean, and one daughter Mindy.

He also has two grandchildren Jay and Aliyah. Allices’ wife Sharlene died in June 2011 from cancer. Allice said it is important that he spends time with his family.

Although Allice is retired he does not plan to stop coaching. he says he plans on working with individuals.

New coach electrifies the gridiron First football game is against Fullerton on Sept. 7.

By Dionna Henry Sports Editor

JOE CASCIO Wants “winning tradition”

has provided and the energy and experience he will bring to LBCC.” “My main goal at LBCC is to help our coaches bring the winning tradition back to Long Beach.” Cascio said.

Only a day into the job, Cascio has familiarized himself with the athletic facilities on campus as well as coaches, employees and student-athletes.

“I felt great going into my first day and felt even better, a lot more tired, at the end. This is a great place and I’m looking forward to a long career here,” Cascio said.

The 2012 Viking football season ended on a losing note. With a 0-10 record, change was definitely needed.

At the end of the season Mike Reisbic stepped down as head coach and Brett Peabody stepped in for the team.

Augafa Vaaulu, 21, a kinesiology major, was on the team last year. After going through last season, he said he is eager to play and have a winning season. He said practices are now faster paced and the whole tempo has changed. He said Peabody is working the team hard, so the Vikings can have a winning season.

Peabody said so far he has not faced any real challenges and the adjustment has been smooth. He said, “The team is working hard, getting better every day and having a good off season.”

Peabody said it is critical for the team to build chemistry so

Caleb Ellis/ Viking PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: Coach Peabody, right, observes practice with player Josiah Blandon on Tuesday, July 16.

they can work as a unit. He is most looking forward to beating Fullerton on Saturday, Sept. 7.

His goals for the year are playing a good game, and playing in a bowl game.

Ce Lawren, 18, an undecided major, said, “It has been a major adjustment. It’s like day to night.”

He said the new coaching staff and practice setup is different, but the team’s game has risen. The team has a positive energy and the change has been a success, he said. Lawren said he does not feel the team is united yet, but they

are “making strives to get there.”

Nicholas Pope, 19, a criminal law major, was quarterback for the team last year.

He ended the season with nine touchdowns, 4.9 yards per attempt and 93.2 yards per game.

He said he believes the team has a chance of doing great this season. He said the new coaches and plays has made the team closer as a unit and also a family.

When talking about what the players are most looking forward to Vaaulu, Pope and Lawren all replied with “success.”

NEWS

August 1, 2013

Murder victim hoped to become an engineer

By Robert Fullingim Staff Writer

Cyrus Henry Alva, 19, an engineering major at LBCC, was shot to death in front of his home one mile away from the LAC on Thursday, May 30, during the final week of the Spring semester.

The Long Beach Press-Telegram reported two Hispanic men approached Alva in front of his home about 2 p.m. and shot him at point-blank-range.

Alva was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspects were last seen fleeing in an older model white sedan the Press-Telegram said.

On Monday, July 22, Lt. Dave Coleman of the Los Angeles Sheriff ’s homicide bureau said, “Detectives are still working on the case. No arrests have been made and there are no updates to report.”

Mary Marki, a world civilizations professor, said, “Cyrus Alva was in my U.S. history class.

He was eager to learn, with future plans to transfer and become an engineer.

“I spoke to him the day before he was killed about his wanting to pass my course with a B and his worries regarding the upcoming final exam.”

Marki set up a memorial table in his honor at LAC on June 4 and 5 with a sympathy card, flowers and an easel with a sheet of white paper to be signed by LBCC stu-

13

Teachers’ union seeks candidates Political group wants to make endorsements for potential trustees.

By Jessica De Soto Co-Editor in Chief

D.A. Phillips/Viking FINAL THOUGHTS: Classmate Ephraim Ballesteros signs a memorial card for the family of slain LBCC engineering student Cyrus Alva outside the T Building, on Tuesday, June 4.

“I live three houses down from Cyrus and he was a fellow classmate of mine at LBCC. I would see him walking down the street all the time.”

–Arnold James

fellow classmate of mine at LBCC. I would see him walking down the street all the time.”

James attended the candle light vigil in front of Alva’s home and he left an LBCC sweater in his memory. Alva was born Oct. 16, 1993. He is survived by his parents Shakila and Henry Alva, brother Suraj Alva and sister Evangeline Alva of Lakewood.

Journalism major

dents and employees.

Marki said she gave Sara Cofer, 22, a nursing major, and friend to Alva, the card and other items to deliver to the Alva family.

Arnold James, 53, a journalism major, said “I live three houses down from Cyrus and he was a

Cyrus Henry Alva “Was eager to learn”

The LBCC Political Action Coalition is soliciting community residents who may be interested in running for the district Board of Trustees’ positions in Districts 1, 3 and 5.

While the filing deadline is not until early 2014, the coalition is seeking to do an early endorsement of candidates.

LBCC is undergoing major structural changes initiated by the trustees and administration.

President Jeffery A. Kellogg is in charge of District 1. He specializes in senior educational consultant in educational and facility master planning.

Vice President trustee Dr. Thomas J-Clark for district 5 serves as the Community College league of California, which represents the California Community College trustee board and trustee Mark Bowen for district 3.

Changes are adversely impacting students, staff, teachers and ultimately, the community, a press release from the coalition said. Not only have 11 vocational programs been dis-

continued, but the budget reallocation redirects the mission of the Community College to a 2-year transfer institution, a spokeswoman wrote.

Additionally, the morale students and employees is at an all-time low the press release said.

Teachers surveyed in 2012 indicated the majority of the Board are not friendly, the union said in the press release of full-time teachers.

Since almost everyone in Long Beach has some connection to LBCC whether a former student or employee or a family member of a former student or employee, people may be experiencing or witnessing the impact of these changes, the coalition said.

Perhaps people or someone they know would like to serve on the Board and help restore the composition of the board to meet the needs of the community that people know and love, the press release said.

Interested individuals may send an email to lbccpac@gmail.com by Monday, Aug. 5.

Interested people will be sent a questionnaire that should be emailed back by Friday, Aug.12.

Interviews will be scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 24. The election is scheduled for April 8, 2014.

Cops warn of restroom sneak

By Brittany Lieberman News Editor A young man was caught sneaking into a women’s restroom in the D Building on Tuesday, July 9, said LBCC Police Lt. Julie Prior said.

The witness, an anonymous person, wrote and posted a note on the stalls, warning others of the incident. “Beware! Guy caught sneaking into this restroom. July 9, Thursday,” the note read.

The note describes the intruder as a 5 foot 9 inches tall, almost bald, a light-skinned African American carrying a skateboard.

Prior said police have no suspects, but the case remains open for investigation.

Any helpful information or leads anyone may have regarding the incident may be reported to the Long Beach Police Department.

In 2011, a female student was sexually assaulted in the math and science building restrooms during evening classes.

Although the student was able to fight off her assailant with minor injuries, he fled LAC into a nearby neighborhood and has not been identified since.

Victor Serrano, 20, a photography major, said, “I’ve been here for two years and the system is

messed up. It seems like safety is not a priority here. We have to be extremely aware.”

The incident alerts female students to heed caution more than usual around LAC. Claudia Lai, 19, an interior design major, said, “That’s really scary, literally anyone can just go into the bathrooms. We can’t just have security standing outside the restrooms.”

Prior said students and employees should report suspicious activity to 9-1-1 or 9-9-1-1 from a campus telephone.

She recommends avoiding doorways, bushes or anywhere someone could be hiding and avoid dimly lit campus or parking areas.

Keeping a confident stride, making eye contact with others and holding keys are all highly suggested when walking to a car, Prior said.

Prior suggests all students and employees follow the mantra, “See something, hear something, say something,” to keep the campuses safe and crime-free.

Students may sign up for Nixle at nixle.com to receive LBPD alerts by text. A vehicle escort is available to students and employees during evening hours by contacting Campus Police at (562) 435-6711.

GRADUATION

14

August 1, 2013

The tassel was worth the hassle

Graduates and certificate recipients walk through rows of teachers, congratulating them on their accomplishments during the opening ceremony.

By Arieel Alcaraz Co-Editor in Chief

milestones for education this year.” Spring ASB President Josh Lorenzini welcomed the audiFamilies and friends gathered ence with the Pledge of Allegiance. on Thursday, June 6, to share the Student valedictorian Ricky perfect moment of graduation.

Brown, with a GPA of 4.0, gave his The Viking class of 2013 took speech to the graduates. He said, their last steps walking down to “B is not an option, always aim for receive their degrees.

100.

More than 1,800 students reIf you aim for a 100, you don’t ceived degrees or certificates. ever have to worry about failing.”

In the opening of the ceremo- He overcame obstacles to set highny, the Long Beach Viking show er standards with an associate’s deband opened with music while gree in electrical technology and families and he is on his way friends found a to Cal State Long place to enjoy the Beach. Brown said event in Veterans he was going to, Stadium. “bring home the LBCC stugold.” dent vocalist Ernest Mitch–Ricky Brown Student valedictorian ell, U.S. Fire adSarah Twilley opened by singministrator, gave ing the National an inspiring Anthem speech to the graduates. Greg PeAfter Twilley sang, she gave terson, vice president of Student an opening speech. She said, “As Support Services, presented the I stand here before you as a leader scholarship and honor awards and of graduates to receive a certificate provided recognition of certificate this evening, it is special because recipients. it is a celebration of achievements LBCC President Eloy Oakley that many students work so hard presented the graduates with dito achieve. plomas. After graduates received This ceremony of acknowl- their degrees, they looked for their edgments of efforts many stu- families and friends to take picdents who reach important tures.

“B is not an option, always aim for 100.”

Students of the Viking class of 2013 wear the yellow tassels on their caps to represent the physical science as they wait for their names to be called to receive their degrees on Thursday, June 6.

Photos by Jacob Rosborough

Ebony Burton gives a celebratory kick after receiving her diploma during the once-a-year event marking the students’ hard work and dedication at LBCC. Burton was one of more than 1,800 graduates.

President Eloy Oakley stops to take a picture to celebrate the moment at Veterans Stadium. Oakley has presided at seven graduation ceremonies since becoming the LBCC president in 2007.

PCC

August 1, 2013

Book fair brings smiles to child area

15

By Sierra Smith Staff Writer

The Child Development Center at the PCC sponsors a bi-annual book fair to raise money to provide children with more books for the classroom.

Stacey Smith-Clark, manager of the Child Development Center, said, “We receive credit for every book sold and can then use that credit to purchase more books for our classrooms.

“We are having a book fair to have current books fill up the shelves in our library. We use a good company that does not use commercial books, for a child’s mind to grow and develop they need to use their own creations, for example, a main character in a book that doesn’t have their own TV show.”

Sheryl Navarro, a parent of a child at the center, said “My son and I love shopping at the fair.

There are books for every age and price range.”

There were a wide range of prices from low to high ($4-20 or more).

“There was a wide enough

Shannon Murphy/ Viking BOOK HUNTING: Pallali Chowdhury, left, and Sudibta Barna browse books at PCC’s Child Development Center book fair. The book fair was in the center’s lobby July 8-12 and offered a selection of children’s books.

range for every budget. We have Scholastic at the school where I teach and the prices and selection are far better than what Scholastic offers.”

Jayden, 5, a student at the center, said she likes books and likes to read especially books written about dogs.

The book fair was from July

8-12.

In addition, on July 24 from 4-10 p.m., the center organized a fundraiser at the Chipotle restaurant on Pacific Coast Highway in

the Marina Pacifica Mall. All proceeds went to the center to help buy materials and sponsor activities for the children.

LBCC. Kevin Powers, an associate professor of welding technology, said Stevens is crucial to the program’s mission and helps maintain the integrity of the workshop.

He hopes Stevens remains employed even though the program has been discontinued.

This Summer, Stevens was working with 40 students who were taking the last welding class offered at PCC. He said he hasn’t received his pink slip yet to dismiss him from duty and doesn’t know if that will happen or not.

Some students taking the last welding Summer class like Juan Martinez, 19, a welding major, said, “Stevens has been very helpful to us, supplying all the tools

we required for operations and helping us to use the machines.”

Danna Foster, 49, a welding major, said, “Stevens is a good man. He keeps the machines and equipment clean. He knows what he is doing around here.”

Stevens said he loves what he does even though he knows it could be dangerous.

He recalled one time pulling wires to hook up the welding machine when the ladder broke. He ended up in the hospital with an injured eye, broken arm and broken ribs.

Stevens said it is such a good feeling to see the students graduating and get jobs.

He hopes most students will be able to transfer to another school and finish their education.

Technician worries for welding students

By Elizabeth Cheruto Calender Editor

Steve Stevens said he thought the welding program offered at the PCC was one of the best in California.

He added he would get about seven calls a day to inquire about the program, especially from Iraq war veterans.

Stevens is 54 and has been working with the welding students at the PCC campus for 22 years.

He is the vocational instruction technician for the PCC welding department.

Stevens said he keeps in contact with many students and they are friends beyond the classroom.

Stevens recalled one time

having his car towed on his way to work and one of his students, seeing him on the road, gave him a ride to work.

“That’s the kind of relationship I had with students,” he said.

In his career, he has seen thousands of students graduate from the welding program and find work in the industry.

Some students left a lasting impression on him. He recalled Colin Tum, 20, a welding major, who wanted to learn as much as he could.

Stevens said Tum always asked questions and worked overtime.

He said Tum got a job with Vance and Hines, a company that makes motorcycle parts, which was not a surprise to anyone.

Stevens also mentioned Ra-

STEVE STEVENS Loves what he does

phael Gracia, who came to the college through the Los Angeles regional occupation program.

Stevens said Gracia was an exceptional student who excelled in the class and now he has his own truck doing different jobs.

Another student Stevens talked about was Charles Deering, who went through all the classes, graduated and is working at

PCC horticulture program escapes trimming

By Brittany Lieberman News Editor Several degree-yielding vocational programs are being slashed this year on both of LBCC’s campuses due to increasing budget cuts.

Unlike aviation, welding or air conditioning classes, horticulture as a vocational program will remain available to students.

The majority of LBCC students attend LAC and know little about their PCC neighbor. The horticulture program is located in a fenced-off outdoor garden environment, lush with trees, hundreds of different plant types, flowers, a pond, a greenhouse and a chicken coop.

The program has been offered at LBCC since 1972 and is described as a "hands-on living lab" by instructional associate Brian Hastie. "All you need is a truck

Victoria Kim/ Viking GARDEN VARIETY: Instructional technician Brian Hastie gives tour of LBCC’s horticulture area.

and some knowledge," Hastie said when commenting on horticulture as a profitable career path.

Some students think cutting labor intensive programs, such as welding and keeping horticulture, isn’t fair. Jose Bracho, 19, a previous auto mechanic major, said,

“I understand the benefits, especially if you’re vegan, but in Long Beach, you see nothing but auto shops on every corner. We need those auto shop programs so we can find work. I didn’t get to finish the program.”

A recent study by the Chicago

Tribune notes organic farming as a still small, but rapidly growing marketplace, consumers attracted by "significantly less pesticide residue" compared to non-organic.

Horticulture's organic garden includes cherry tomatoes, soybeans, strawberries, goji berries

and other vegetation ready to eat right off the vine and is used to raise the program's chickens.

Hastie said. “We've moved into rationing education instead of realizing the importance of people's diversifying interests.

As a society we should support different avenues of education, I think we're at a Renaissance point in the organic market. We're paying attention and going in that direction.”

Classes such as agriculture, landscaping and green house plant production are offered through the program. An associate’s degree is received after the two-year program, although students may transfer to obtain a bachelor’s degree.

The horticulture grounds are located in MM 103. For more information, people may call (562) 938-3092 or email Hastie at BHastie@lbcc.edu.

CLUBS

16

August 1, 2013

Variety brings life to activities

By Michael Nueva Staff Writer

LBCC Director of Student Life, Rosio Becerra, said, “Clubs’ strive is to create, encourage and support a positive, collegial learning environment to enhance the educational goals of students and the college.”

Becerra added, “Innovative and traditional programs, events and activities have been developed, which foster the opportunity for personal growth through learning, leadership development, shared governance, healthy competition, volunteerism, social interaction and cultural exchange.”

Becerra said, “Clubs are open to all students and they must be current LBCC students to join.”

She added, “Please check in with the Office of Student Life at the beginning of each semester to get more information on Join-AClub Day, where students can get information on the many differ-

PCC CLUBS:

§ PCC Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Club, Dennis Digiovanni, 562-938-3053 § PCC Automotive Kustoms Club, John Louie, 562-938-3172 § PCC Cambodian Student Association, Danny Tan, 562-938-3224 § PCC Carpentry Club, Javier Rivera, 562-938-3091 § PCC Child Development Club, Stacey Smith-Clark, 562-938-3079 § PCC Diesel Club, Dale Carlson, 562-938-3071 § PCC Horticulture Club, Jorge Ochoa, 562-938-3092 § PCC Human Services Club, Yaneth Godoy, 562-938-3985 § PCC Pacific Coast Cruisers Club, Danny Tan, 562-938-3224 § PCC Sheet Metal Club, Tim Shoemaker, 562-938-3051 § PCC The Door-R-Open Club § PCC Welding Club, Winford Sartin, 562-938-3074 § PCC Young Poets Society, Coleen Maldonado, 562-938-3278

LAC CLUBS:

§ Alpha Gamma Sigma-Kappa, Steven Wallech, 562-938-4644 § Alpha Gamma Sigma-Delta Chi, Margaret Antonio, 562-938-5179 § Alpha Ladies of Color, Shimeka Simpson, 562-938-4234 § Alpha Omega, Grace Pokorny, 562-938-942 § Association of Future Firefighters, Ralph De La Ossa, 562-938-4338 § Chinese Club, S. Chang, 562-938-4702 § Civic Engagement Club, Janet Hund, 562-938-4190 § Coalition of Latino Advancement, Carlos Ramos, 562-938-4418 § Cycling Club, Rodney Rodriguez, 562-938-4358 § Dance It Up Club, Jaimarie Cruz, 562-938-4031 § Delta Alpha Pi, Allison Brown, 562-938-4921 § Economics Club, Geetha Rajaram, 310-795-8161 § Faithful Peaceful Unity, 562-938-3958

ent clubs. The majority of clubs recruit members year round. Students can usually join at any time.

There will be anywhere between 40-60 clubs.”

Savanna Joseph, 26, a fashion merchandising major, said, “I think it will open their eyes to things that they probably would not have known about. I am not a part of any clubs, but I am thinking about joining.”

Carlos Galvez, 18, an undecided major, said, “Clubs are a great way to meet new people as well as a good way to learn new things. Clubs get people involved with their surroundings and there is no reason why students should not join.”

Jakob Nowell, 18, an undecided major, said, “I’ve never joined a club at this school, but I have joined clubs at previous schools.

Clubs are a healthy social endeavor and I plan to join one as soon as I can make the time.”

Thomas Beltron, 20, a journalism major, said, “I think students should join clubs because it is a great way to get familiar with people who have similar interests in school. I haven’t joined a club yet but if I find one out there, I will sign up.”

Christopher Burges, 20, a music major, said, “Clubs are a good way to be more involved in the school and to meet new people.

But sometimes it is impossible with students who are busy outside of school such as when they have work and family commitments.”

Alejandra Rodriguez, 20, a criminal justice major, said, “Club takes up too much time.”

Jesus Guadarama, 19, a criminal justice major, said, “Honestly, clubs might interfere with academics, but they are good for college transfer applications.”

Students can visit lbcc.edu/ StudentLife/clubs/index.cfm.

§ Filipino Kalayaan Club, Nenita B. Buenaventura, 562-938-4576 § Game Changers Club, Debra Peterson, 562-810-3809 § German Club, Ingrid Wollank, 562-938-4690 § Harry Potter Book Club, Maya Cardenas, 562-938-4978 § Kinesiology Club, Tony Klune, 562-938-4229 § LAC-KCTY Radio Association, Ken Borgers, 562-938-4892 § LAC American Criminal Justice Association, Michael Biggs, 562-938-4452 § LAC Anime Club, Chris Gover, 562-938-4669 § LAC Archaeology Club, Laurel Harrison Breece, 562-938-4836 § LAC Architectural Student Association, Ted Lambros, 562-938-4658 § LAC Athena, Paul Savoie, 562-938-4733 § LAC Badminton Club, Barbara Jackson, 562-938-4003 § LAC Be The Change Catholic Student Club, Dele Ukwu, 562-938-4581 § LAC Campus Crusade For Christ, Carmen Chestnut, 714-803-8051 § LAC Club D’Art, Christopher Chinn, 562-938-4882 § LAC Dance Club, Stephanie Powell, 562-938-4881 § LAC Deaf Club, Gloria Williams, 562-938-4918 § LAC English Majors and Minor Club, Allison Murray, 562-938-4601 § LAC Fashion Network Club, Pamela Knights, 562-438-4192 § LAC Film Club, Elias Daughdrill, 562-938-4594 § LAC French Club, Marie Hinton, 562-938-4966 § LAC International Students Club, Judy Oh, 562-938-4359 § LAC KLBC Radio Association, Ken Borgers, 562-938-6341 § LAC Lovely Ladies of Akna, Tracy Bejerano, 562-938-3158 § LAC Medieval Society Club, Donna Schappell, § LAC Men of Aztlan, Larry Chavez, 562-490-7378 § LAC Muslim Student Association, Tair Aziz, 562-938-4885 § LAC Nursing Student Association, Debi Beitler, 562-938-4182 § LAC Pagan Club, Adrian

Novotny, 562-938-4652 § LAC Philosophy Club, Michael Monge, 562-938-4949 § LAC Political Science Student Association, Prof. Goss, 562-938-4620 § LAC Psychology Club, Boris Vukov, 562-938-4322 § LAC S.T.O.R.Y, Melinda Manlowe, 562-938-4198 § LAC Sankofa, Erainia Freeman, 562-938-4263 § LAC Students for the Advancement of Music Majors, Peter Knapp, 562-938-4838 § LAC The Honorary Honor of Thane, Derek Oriee, 562-938-4226 § LAC The Order of Kassai, Paula Castro, 562-773-4606 § LAC The Order of Thor, Martha Morales, 562-938-4565 § LAC The Order of Tong International, Derek Oriee, 562-938-4226 § LAC TNT, Stacey Robinson, 562-938-4455 § LAC Video Game Club, Kent Andrade, 310-570-3535 § LAC Young Poets Society, Doc Brown, 562-682-1821 § LBCC Business Club, Sandra O’Toole, 562-938-4661 § LBCC Gay Straight Alliance, Honey Moncur, 562-938-3988 § LBCC Puente Club, Ramiro Hernandez, 562-938-3925 § LBCC Veterans Club, 562-938-4296 § LBCC Library Club, Shamika Simpson, 562-938-4234 § Model United Nations Club, Donald Douglas, 562-938-4662 § Phi Theta Kappa, Camille Bolton, 562-938-4846 § Spanish Club, Cynthia Quintero, 562-938-4611 § Spotlight Theatre Club, Anthony Carreiro, 562-938-4946 § The Doors Are Open Club § The Equalitee Club, Jeffrey Ordelin, 310-293-6292 § The Lady of Isis Club, Gloria Willson-Gonzalez, 562-881-2872 § The Prayer Club, 562-938-4666 § The Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists, Ericka Gutierrez, 562-938-4162 § Zumba Dance and Fitness, Richard Weber, 562-938-4625

Provided By Jorge Ochoa NATURE AT ITS BEST: PCC’s Jorge Ochoa, right, and John Vanderplank are in the tropical forest of Suriname in search for the passion flower.

Professor from PCC travels to the rainforest

gland. They ventured off into the forest searching the grounds and canopies for their plant.

Ochoa describes his diet as a simple one while exploring the Jorge Ochoa took a trip to the forest.

Breakfast: Oatmeal in wanorthern part of South Ameriter and coffee.

Lunch: Piece of ca to a small country, Suriname, bread or pineapple or sometimes from June 23 through July 3.

Ochoa is the director of the skipped lunch. Supper: Chicken Horticulture program at PCC and with potatoes or pancakes. “I had has been teaching at LBCC since a very interesting fruit. It was a 2003 with a degree in agriculture. small fruit from a palm tree. The Margarita Capalbo, 41, with fleshy portion had the texture and an Associate Science degree in flavor similar to mango,” Ochoa horticulture, said, “He is an ex- said.

He added, “Our trip was very pert on the passion flower. It is his simple.

We wake up, venture favorite.” Capalbo also added, “He into the forest and be back bemakes everything personal, that’s fore dark. We what makes it saw and phonice being in tographed his class.” many plants Ochoa including shares his enpalms, ordeavors with chids and his students passion flowand Capalbo ers vines. We said that it is saw many a big asset to animals inthe class. cluding frogs, – Margarita Calpalbo He always A.S. degree in horticulture lizards, and had an inbirds.

The terest in the most amazing animal is the intricate relationship between hawkmoth, which has the largest plants and people. “I was the only faculty to be granted tenure this mouth of any known insect.

The tropical rainforest is speyear. For my tenure, I was asked cial and memorable in itself,” to select a book that was importOchoa said. ant or influential in my profes“John Vanderplank from Ensional life. I chose ‘Passion Flowgland has a very long white beard ers’ by John Vanderplank,” Ochoa and when he got tired, I gave said. him a stick to help him along the Brazil is to the south of Susearch.

When he started walking riname and tends to have a hot around, I noticed that he looked tropical climate. He also spent his like the wizard Gandalf from the nights in a cabin in the forest.

‘Lord of the Rings’ , ” he added.

The goal of Ochoa’s trip was Ochoa said he is happy to be to locate passion flower species back home. He said he did learn a to talk about in his Fall semester lot and the experience was great. classes.

He misses the high humidity and Ochoa met two men who rain along with the sounds of all were in search of the same plant, the animals in the forest, such as Robert McPhail from Holland frogs and birds. and John Vanderplank from EnBy Marcy lopez Images Editor

“He is an expert on the passion flower.

It is his favorite. He makes everything personal. That’s what makes it nice.”

CALENDAR

August 1, 2013

SPECIAL INFORMATION Police recruiting Application available untill Sept. 13. Long Beach Police Department. longbeach.gov/ police.

Apply online: at longbeach.gov/ civilservice Phone: (562) 570-6202

IMPORTANT DATES Thursday, Aug. 8 Priority registration ends Aug. 12-18 No registration or payments during this time Tuesday, Aug. 13 Last day to pay online by 10 p.m or in person by 5 p.m.

Aug. 19-22 Open registration begins. Online available from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Aug. 26-30 Late registration. Permission numbers are needed Monday, Sept. 2 Labor Day. College closed

FINANCIAL AID LAC Phone: (562) 938-4485 Building: A 1075 Fax: (562) 938-4046 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - noon Saturday - Sunday Closed PCC Phone: (562) 938-4485 Building: MD146 Fax: (562) 938-3155 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - noon Saturday - Sunday Closed

International students International students program is offering specialized support and immigration advice to F1 and M1 status students on campus as well as assistance to prospective students during the application process.

LAC phone: (562) 938-4560 Loans For students receiving a loan for the first time at LBCC, federal regulations don’t allow the disbursement of the loan until 30 days after the start of classes. It will arrive at Higher One about 10 business days later.

Disabled Students Disabled students and services offers services that compensate for students’ limitations, like note-taking assistance, interpretive services, test-taking assistance and alternative media LAC phone (562) 938-4558 PCC phone (562) 938-3921

CAMPUS SECURITY For any security issues, contact the campus police Police on-campus Dial - 4910 Police off-campus Phone: (562) 435-6711 Police, emergency on-campus Dial 9-911 Police, emergency off-campus Dial 911

PARKING

Parking is free in student stalls only between Aug. 12 - Sept. 8.

Parking permits may be purchased in the cashier’s office on either campus to avoid parking tickets after Sept. 8 All-day permits be purchased at the parking lots Limited services on Friday: Spe- machine for $1 cialists are unavailable, front Phone: (562) 938 4534 desk is open for questions only SPORTS from noon - 4:30 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 26 More information or a better Women’s soccer at Cypress understanding of the IRS DRT, at 3 p.m.

CA Dream Act, correcting the Thursday, Aug. 29 FAFSA, student loans and vetWomen’s soccer erans’ Benefits is available by at Ventura at 1 p.m. watching Financial Aid videos on the topics and more at the Friday, Aug. 30 college website.

Women’s volleyball at Cerritos time to be announced Missing information emails and letters for 2014 are being Friday, Aug. 30 sent weekly. Required items Men’s soccer at Taft at 4 p.m. also will appear in the To Do Saturday, Aug. 31 list in the online student center. Women’s soccer at Ventura at The files should be completed 9 a.m.

ASAP to receive financial aid in Wednesday, Sept. 4 the first Fall disbursement on Women’s volleyball at 5 p.m.

Aug. 30.

COUNSELING OFFICE LAC Building A 1111 (562) 938-4560 Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - noon PCC Building MD129 (562) 938-3920 Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - noon

17

NO MORE LEFT TURN

Counselors suggest each student make an appointment to discuss any concerns about identifying goals and selecting courses to meet certificate, associate of arts or science or transfer requirements.

For new and prospective students, counselors recommend a review of the online orientation on the college website.

LIBRARY HOURS PCC Building LL Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday: closed LAC- Building L Monday - Thursday: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday: closed

Elizabeth Cheruto/Viking Long Beach city workers put stamped concrete on pavement by Carson Street near the LAC overpass on Tuesday, July16. The work eliminates the left-turn and U-turn lane on westbound Carson to Faculty Avenue.

VIKING CAMPUSSTORE PCC Building EE (562) 938-3008 Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

LAC Building I (562) 938-4755 Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday closed on both campus

VIKING VOYAGER Free campus- to-campus shuttle service for students and employees Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Friday: No service Passengers must present an ASB ID or employee ID card upon boarding the shuttle.

Long Beach Transit 176 ZAP runs every 30 minutes, connecting the PCC and LAC.

OPINION

18

August 1, 2013

EDITORIALS

Flame of community beginning to dwindle Despite the unbalanced effort of collaborating with our LBCC peers to illustrate evident Student Life, the community scene has become a black and gray drought.

Throughout the semesters we have attended LBCC, we have come to realize the lack of relations between the students here.

With 30,000 students, it seems like they are oblivious to the visible opportunities in front of them to create a more connected, balanced and spirited school.

We remembered that back in high school, grade school or even other Community Colleges we have attended, student activities

bonded our peers together and furthered our relationships and opportunities to succeed with like-minded people.

We know students have other commitments outside school such as family responsibilities and volunteer activities and work, but it wouldn’t hurt if more students put an effort in trying. It’s disappointing to witness the absence on campus nowadays.

We would like to see PCC and LAC clubs to be more publicly encouraging in having students join their alliances. The lack of community at LBCC is getting worse to the point that our peers cannot

Braxton Moore/Viking

even recall when the students’ elections are anymore.

We have come to an agreement onto some things that can spark the dwindling flame again, like more informational announcements such as an emailed newsletter for upcoming events can be more effective than the word of mouth.

We all know that obstacles will be in our way and other obligations to attend to, but by actually putting our foot down and grasping the idea at hand, LBCC can become a school that people essentially want to come to.

Braxton Braxton Moore/Viking

Connecting to our future Program relations should have students interacting with one another. For example, the math center in Building D provides math tutors for students to help with their homework. The tutors are there when we need help with our projects or help studying for tests.

Our education is a means to our future, because it’s the basis for what we become after college. It defines us as who we are. Student relations promote LBCC’s

academic excellence and high quality educational programs to seek potential in students’ futures.

Throughout the semester, we have the ability to contact our professors from our classes to set up a private one-on-one session.

Even with emails, it is a big help for us to keep in touch with our professors, in case we missed a day or fall behind.

Usually, the professors are there to help us when we are faced with challenges.

We succeed when we keep in contact with our professors and further expand on the education and the knowledge that we have gained from our previous classes

and carry it forward to our future classes.

Education plays an important role in our lives.

We make our way through life, grasping at any communication with others to help us understand the knowledge we’ve acquired over our academic years.

It’s a kindergarten-learned, your ABC’s, 123, the spelling of your name and of course, how to ask for help when we need it.

We all need help from time to time. It’s part of every human life.

So, don’t be hesitant. There will always be someone to extend a hand.

OPINION

August 1, 2013

19

COMMENTARY

Guns disrupt morals

By Brittany Lieberman News Editor

I respect the right to bear arms. What I do not respect are those who abuse this right, be it the mentally inept, the NRA, violent gang members or illegal weapons hustlers, all of which contribute to the roughly 11,000 people murdered by guns in the U.S. each year.

As a child who grew up in mostly middle-class neighborhoods, I was left with little fear of ever being mixed up in gun violence. A naive “it will never happen to me,” mentality kept me from giving the subject a second thought.

Over the past couple years, however, I’ve watched the country I live in take on an aggressive affinity for weaponry. This prompts the question ‘why, in such a prosporous and wealthy country, are we maliciously killing one another?’ America should not be treated as a 50-state-wide killing field.

Since the 1980s there have been 62 gun-related mass murders in the U.S., where over three-quarters of weapons used were obtained legally. This questions the stale idea that thugs and criminals are largely responsible for today’s homicides, versus your neighbor Mr. Smith. Soon after the heartbreaking Newtown shootings, President Obama supported a bill that would enhance FBI background checks on gun purchases.

At the same time this bill failed to pass the Senate by six votes, the NRA’s membership surged by a tenth, totaling the club’s membership to a hefty 5 million. That’s an unsavory combination for those who have no interest in being killed, or being a killer.

A bitter cocktail of shock, anger, fear and confusion divide Americans into two catagories: those who refuse to turn to fear and guns who become vulnerable in a gun-saturated culture, and those who are armed to the teeth and are highly suspicious of one

another. It seems we’ve lost our collective voice of reason that tells us when we’ve pushed the envelope in all the wrong ways.

One night in June, I meandered into the 4th street Hole Mole in Long Beach, where I noticed a drunken man picking on a young man for no reason in particular. The man swiftly broke a full bottle of hot sauce over the kid’s head and fled the restaurant.

Nobody knows how the situation would have ended if he were carrying a firearm, but common sense would point to a few unfavorable outcomes.

As Americans and humans, we fail to prioritize human life over an obsession with an inanimate object. We should work with eachother to eradicate U.S’ consistent 11,000-per-year firearm homicide rate. It makes sense to attack the problem at it’s root, be it mental illness, gang violence or just plain irresponsible gun use.

It’s our duty to leave the world a better place than we found it.

We must stare down the barrel of fear and face our dependence on firearms to ensure a safer future.

Violent lyrics, never mind the meaning

By Alondra Murillo Facebook and Twitter Editor

Many listen to music without understanding the lyrics.

The Mexican music genre, “narco corridos” or drug songs, has a unique mixture style based on norteñas, country music and banda, wind instruments, but besides using a variety of sounds, the genre has lyrics that based on drugs, rampages, cartels and weapons.

The violent adrenaline-pumping music has attracted many with its sound, but

realistically speaking, most fans do not understand the metaphors in each lyric being sang.

The song “El Primer Ministro” by Mexican artist Gerardo Ortiz is one of several songs that do not use metaphors, but even with simplicity to understand, many fans don’t understand the story.

In “El Primer Ministro,” the lyrics talk about the time-lined life of the most wanted Mexican drug cartel leader, Joaquín Guzmán Loera, also known as “El Chapo Guzmán.”

In a way, it can be understandable when a song is catchy, you automatically memorize the

lyrics and beats. But when you become a fan of a certain genre, you should already know what the music is all about.

If the fan doesn’t know the meaning of each word, it comes off as lazy or ignorant.

A drug cartel story is behind the music. A person who can put effort into learning the meaning of a “narco corridos” song should.

Obviously the genre “narco corridos” isn’t the only controversial music, but it is one of many. So if you want to be a fan of controversial music, don’t join the movement to be with the crowd, actually know what it is all about.

CITY VIEWS

Any thoughts on the future challenges of financial aid?

Compiled by Robert Fullingim on Tuesday, July 2, on the LAC

Weed could spark new LBCC money

College could cash in with hydroponics.

By Braxton Moore Opinion Editor

If you’re a non-smoker, more often than not you’re against any kind of drug use. And while it is something slightly commendable, being anti-drug (or anti-marijuana in this case) is becoming over-prudent.

It’s 2013 and we probably know more people than we can count who smoke weed. It’s become quite difficult to lay out the “side effects” of sparking up and dissect any negativity from it.

So, it stands to reason that embracing such a green culture wouldn’t be completely out of the question. But being an LBCC student, you are maybe worried about all of those nasty consequences if you were to partake.

But never fear, it will only be a matter of time before LBCC becomes a pot-friendly campus.

A cannabis campus, if you will.

Acceptance of the gateway drug has been on such an upswing. Even Princeton University has taken notice and compiled a top 10 list of the most “accepting” colleges. Though LBCC has fallen short of making it on to

Viking Staff Facebook.com/vikingnews Twitter.com/lbccvikingnews lbccviking.com

Editors in chief: Arieel Alcaraz and Jessica De Soto Copy and News Editor: Brittany Lieberman CityStyle Editors: Victoria Kim and Shannon Murphy Sports Editor: Dionna Henry Images Editor: Marcy Lopez Calendar Editor: Elizabeth Cheruto Opinion Editor: Braxton Moore Staff: Carlos Chacon Robert Fullingim Leonard Kelley Michael Nueva Sierra Smith

Thomas Beltran, 20, Journalism major “If I have to get the loan, I have to, you have to spend money to make money.”

Nathan Velasquez, 19, Aviation major “I feel it is another scam the government is using to get more money from us.”

Jose Medina, 18, Political science major “It sucks for lack of a better word. The point is to help students, not hinder them.”

Joanna Bernal, 23, Child development major “It’s discouraging because now you have to rethink taking out loans.”

the list, it’s not far behind.

Some would argue that such an acceptance of weed would only benefit people we tend to call pot-heads. This is far from true, as there are many jobs beginning to open that are dedicated to working with the sticky icky crop. One such job is hydroponic farming, which is a common course to take in many colleges.

Some colleges are completely devoted to teaching students the new age way to grow the greenery. One such college being the comically named Oaksterdam University in Oakland.

The fact of the matter is that much of our disagreements stem from what we’ve been told to fear about the drug, much of which usually turns out to be wildly unfounded.

Through the discard of the inhibition, a whole new world of knowledge is open for harvest.

LBCC may not adopt such a controversial style in the near future, but budget cuts will see to the clamor for new revenues.

Imagine newer courses, newer things to learn and newer experiences that, as it is right now, would have us arrested.

LBCC becoming a buddy to the bud means the higher education we cling to gets even higher.

Photo Editor: Caleb Ellis Facebook and Twitter Editor: Alondra Murillo Layout Page Editor: Taelor Payne Advertising Manager: Michal Olszewski Adviser: Patrick McKean Photo and Online Adviser: Chris Viola Retired Photo Adviser: Jim Truitt

Have an opinion?

The Viking welcomes letters to the editor. Writers must identify themselves by showing their ASB card, driver’s license or ID card and e-mail. Only names will be published with the letter.

Jakob Nowell, 18, Fine arts major “Education shouldn’t be unavailable just because of something that is out of our control.”

Reina Mashiko, 21, International business major “It makes it much harder to get an education.”

The deadline for news, advertisements and letters to the editor is the Thursday before publication.

The Viking will be published Sept. 5 and 19, Oct. 3, 17 and 31, Nov. 14 and 27 and Dec. 12. The Viking is published by the Journalism 80 and 85 students of the Long Beach City College English Department, with funding from the Associated Student Body.

The Viking newsroom is located at LBCC, 4901 E. Carson St., Long Beach, Calif., 90808, Room P125, Language Arts Building mail code Y-16. Telephone (562) 938-4285 or 938-4284, or contact us by email to vikingnews@lbcc.edu.

The Viking is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges, the California Newspaper Publishers Association, Unity Journalists of Color and the California First Amendment Coalition.

The Viking reserves the right to deny any advertising space.

Printed by Beach Community Publishing. Delivery staff: PCC Student Life staff and LAC ASB volunteers.

The views expressed in the Viking do not necessarily reflect the views of the advisers, administration or the ASB. First copy free; additional copies $1.

20

IMAGES

August 1, 2013

Elizabeth Cheruto/Viking Parents and their children enjoy a swimming lesson at the LBCC pool Wednesday, June 26 at the LAC. The class is part of Vikings aquatics during the Summer program.

Elizabeth Cheruto/Viking Nick, Matt, Robert, Amane and Isabel learn how to play golf in front of the Hall of Champions. Their instructor located in back by the doors is Ryan Langley, 27, a kinesiology major.

Elizabeth Cheruto/ Viking Itzel Gonzalez, 15 months, swims with the help of her mother Adriana Gonzalez.

The programs include swimming, basketball, baseball, volleyball, softball, cheer-leading and soccer.

how to play golf on the lawn.

The program presents opportunities to students for many different summer jobs.

If people walk into the pool area between 12:30 p.m. - 2:30, p.m. they will hear the splashing of water as children learn to swim.

Laurie Velcov, said, “My daughter participated in the swimming program from about 5 to 12 or 13.

I watched her develop as a swimmer and a diver and highly recommend the swimming program to others. Aquatic director Jenny Sears attended the program as a child. At age of thirteen she volunteered her services, and has been aquatic director for the past ten years.

Her favorite part about her job and the program, is that genera-

Summer youth splashes into 43rd year

By Dionna Henry Sports Editor LBCC is hosting the 43rd annual Summer Fun Youth Recreation Program.

The program gives children a safe place to enjoy summertime and helps ease the minds of parents who have to work during the week.

Kids are engaged in physical activities from 9 a.m.–11 a.m. or

7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. if they are their thoughts on the program, 9 in the extended supervision pro- of 10 students had never heard gram. Prices for activities range about it, although there are a few from $40 to students that $100. help work the Felicia program.

Wafford, mothRonisha er of 6 year old Pinkney, kiLucas Wafford, nesiology masaid, “The cost jor, and Erika of what your Juarez, undepaying for is cided major, worth it, besaid, “Not at cause it keeps all,” when the kids active, asked if she and my son knew about just loves his the program.

-Felicia Wafford The assistant swimming lesMother of six year old Lucas Wafford sons.” to the camp Although director is the program has been active for LBCC student Ryan Langley, 27, 43 years, many LBCC students a kinesiology major, helps whenare unaware that it exists. ever he is needed .

When asking students about He is often teaching the kids

“The cost of what you’re paying for is worth it, because it keeps the kids active and my son just loves his swimming lessons.”

tions of families attend the camps annually.

Parents who attended the program as children are now bringing in their children to share in the same fun they once had.

The program also offers basketball, baseball, volleyball, softball, cheer-leading and soccer.

The new director, Chris Ruiz, is happy to see the camp thriving.

Ruiz said, “Putting together this program has been a very challenging, learning experience.”

His favorite part of the program is seeing all the kids wearing their LBCC Summer recreation shirts.

Although attendance has dropped, the program continues to go on, Ruiz said. The program will conclude Aug. 1, which coincides with the ending of LBCCs Summer classes.