Viking summer 2014

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Volume 88, Issue 1

August 7, 2014

Published Since 1927

Tackling the registration beast

By Becca Urretia Staff Writer The Fall semester begins Monday, Aug. 25 and the deadline to pay for classes is Monday Aug. 11 at 5 p.m. in person or 10 p.m.

Online.

First-time students need to know LBCC has two campuses, the PCC at 1305 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, 90806 and the LAC at 4901 E. Carson St., Long Beach, 90808.

The classes taken will determine the campus students will go to. Students may register for mandatory assessment testing and orientation at lbcc.edu/assessment.

Joanna Gutierrez, 19, an art education major, said, “Registration is easy if you do everything you’re supposed to, print out a new-student check-list follow it and meet deadlines. If you do that, then no worries, it goes right through.”

Returning students have learned how to use the registration system and first-time students sometimes find it frustrating.

Danna Barrios, 19, a licensed vocational nursing major, and first-time student said, “It should be more user-friendly so that students would not have to spend so much time here.”

Hassan Scott, 17, an undecided major, said, “This is my first year, but registration is hard. I don’t know the system, so I am fumbling around and it takes so much time.”

If students use a credit card to pay for any registration and later drop any or all of their classes, within the required refund period, a refund check will automatically be mailed to the address listed on the Online student center.

Students should be aware that they have to attend the first meeting of each class, or be dropped.

College service cards and

NEWS

PAGE 3: Former LBCC teacher Robert Garcia was elected Long Beach’s first openly gay and Latino mayor.

PAGE 5: Former Financial Aid employee appeals her firing alleging a violation of contract.

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Activities create a community

By Brandon Richardson Managing Editor

Infographic By Lisa Hunter/Viking

parking permits will be mailed to the home address on record with Admissions and Records after all payments have been made.

At open registration, student appointments are not needed.

If students need assistance, they may go to Admissions and Records on either campus.

Fees are due at registration and students may pay with cash, check, money order or credit card.

If the credit card is not theirs, they must have a letter of authorization signed by the cardholder permitting them to use the card.

Priority registration is only available Online at lbcc.edu. Students must be assigned an appointment time to register for classes.

Students will be dropped from enrolled and wait-listed classes if they do not pay registration fees.

Enrollment fees are based on

residency status and are listed in the current college catalogue or at lbcc.edu.

The college services card fee includes a college services sticker, which is used to obtain the student ID card.

All students must have a current college services sticker to use the campus-to-campus shuttle bus, Library check-out, computer labs, scholarship eligibility and discount tickets to theme parks and movie theaters.

A health fee is mandatory and will be charged upon registration.

Student health services offices are located on both the LAC and the PCC. Each office is staffed by a registered nurse and students may make appointments by calling the LAC at (562) 938-4210 or the PCC (562) 938-3992.

IMPORTANT DATES, FEES AND HOURS Admissions and Records Days: Monday-Friday Hours: 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Locations: PCC MD135 LAC A1075 Student health services office Days: Monday-Friday Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fridays 8 a.m.-noon Locations: PCC Trailer TO LAC A1010 Online registration Days: Monday-Sunday Time: 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

Website: lbcc.edu Fees College Services: $20 Health: $19 Resident enrollment: $46/unit Non-resident enrollment: $190/ unit Parking pass: $30 Parking fine: $49

IN THIS ISSUE PAGE 2: An armed student was shot by a Long Beach police officer after evading arrest.

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CITYSTYLE

SPORTS

PAGE 6: Records specialist Myrian Bartie retires after 40 years at LBCC.

PAGE 12: The 44th annual Summer Youth Recreation Program attracted children ages 4-13 from June 23-July 31.

PAGE 7: First-time film director, actor and editor wins best narrative film at LBCC’s 8th annual Film Festival.

PAGE 8: 91-year-old PCC employee inspires seniors physically, spiritually and mentally.

PAGE 13: Athletics director announces new women’s volleyball head coach.

PAGE 14: Men and women’s water polo teams train hard in hopes to make it to state championships.

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OTHER PAGE 10-11: PCC and LAC maps PAGE 16: List of PCC and LAC clubs PAGE 17: Calendar of events PAGE 19: Welcome to the school year from LBCC President Eloy Oakley and ASB. PAGE 20: Images of Civil War band summer concert

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Inclusiveness.

This is the idea behind the countless events hosted by Student Life at LBCC. Events give a sense of community and togetherness, create and nurture bonds between students that can last a lifetime.

ASB President Lokilani Hunt, said, “We ultimately grow together; making every semester a memorable one! In my personal journey, I’ve found Student Life to be the support I need during a heavy semester. These are the professional bonds that keep our students on track for graduation and transfer. In Student Life, we want to see each other succeed.”

The first event of the Fall semester is Welcome Back Week on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the PCC and Thursday, Aug. 28 at the LAC from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days.

The events are excellent opportunities for students to meet new people early in the semester, said Teila Robertson, Student Life coordinator.

A barbeque is planned and giveaways include water bottles, T-shirts and phone chargers. Students will be required to show their LBCC student ID to attend the festivities.

The next major event will be Join-a-club Day on Tuesday, Sept.

9, at the LAC and Wednesday, Sept. 10, at the PCC. Students can go from tent to tent to get information on all the clubs at LBCC. A blood drive is planned Wednesday Sept. 24, and Thursday, Sept. 25, Viking Volunteer Resources day on Thursday, Sept.

18, at the LAC, Homecoming on Saturday, Nov. 15, and the Beverly O’Neill Leadership Conference, available for the first time during Fall, on Friday, Oct. 17.

Robertson, said, “The message we want to give to students is that there are a lot of events we’re planning for them to meet new people and get to know their resources.

Especially the new students coming in. They usually just sign up for classes and don’t know about our community.”

Posters and fliers will be posted around campus during the first week of classes with the dates and times of all Fall events, as well as up-to-date information on the Student Life website at lbcc.edu/ studentlife.

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NEWS

August 7, 2014

Benjamin Diaz/Viking SCARY SITUATION: A Long Beach Police Department search and rescue unit sits in Parking Lot 7 on the PCC Thursday June 19, as forensics officers (off camera) investigate the scene, which included interviewing witnesses. An LBCC student allegedly shot at an officer who returned fire and wounded the suspect.

Police shoot armed student Witnesses see officer chase suspect through JJ shop class

By Edward Mahurien Contributing Writer

Conflicting reports surfaced as to where exactly the shots were fired, McDonnell initially said in A Long Beach police officer his press conference, saying the shot and injured an LBCC stu- shots were fired from inside the dent who allegedly fled police and classroom, but later said he wasn’t fired upon the officer around 5:30 sure exactly where the shootout p.m. Thursday, June 20, near the JJ took place. building on the PCC, police said.

A student eyewitness who saw Shots were fired in or around the police running after the susthe JJ building housing the Avia- pect said the altercation included tion and Auto maintenance pro- the suspect’s family members. grams. He was confirmed to be Lacey, an English major who a LBCC student by college Presi- declined to give her last name, dent Eloy Oakley. said she saw the suspect running Police refused to release the from police and holding what she name of the armed student but the described as a black bag tucked Long Beach Press-Telegram iden- under his right arm. “I saw him tified him as Travis Brown, 26, running and the cops were right according behind him. to reports “I saw him running and the cops They were they gath- were right behind him. They were s h o u t i n g , ered through poshouting, ‘Stop, police! Stop!’ but ‘Stop, eyewitnesslice! Stop!’ es. The sus- he just kept running.” but he just pect fled the kept run-Lacey scene of an the Student Eyewitness ning,” a lte rc at i on eyewitness on Walnut Avenue on the east said. side of the campus when police The suspect was immediately noticed the confrontation and taken into custody and transportstopped. ed to a local hospital. McDonnell The officer involved was not expected him to be released late an LBPD officer assigned to LBCC Thursday night and will then be as part of the campus police, but a transferred to booking. McDonmember of the directed enforce- nell declined to speculate on spement team. The team targets spe- cific charges given the ongoing cific targets and locations, specif- investigation, but one officer on ically areas of high drug use and the scene who wished to remain gang activity, authorities said. The anonymous said the felony charge instance was said to be a random of attempted murder of a police patrol by one of their officers. The officer was highly likely. officer’s name was not released.

Despite the PCC being in a The suspect ran through the JJ more crime-ridden area than the Building and fired at the officer in LAC, the PCC is statistically safer front of the building. The officer than the LAC and classes in unafreturned fire injuring the suspect fected areas proceeded as normal in the leg or buttocks area, Long Thursday night. Oakley and McBeach Police Chief Jim McDon- Donnell both echoed those statisnell told the Viking newspaper. tics and reiterated that students

Benjamin Diaz/Viking OFFICIAL REACTION: Long Beach Police Chief Jim McDonnel, left, and LBCC President Eloy Oakley confirm details of an officer-involved shooting during a press conference after the shooting. Oakley confirmed the suspect is an LBCC student.

should rest assured that the campus is safe and it will be business as usual Monday, June 23.

With the highly publicized and often tragic incidents involving guns on school campuses, the June 19 scenario is extremely rare on the PCC, the chief said.

Students taking classes in the JJ Building, however, were locked down until they could be interviewed by police.

One woman, Kimberly Johnson, wife of a student in the building where the gunfire occurred, was visibly distraught as she rushed down to the campus with her grand-daughter to retrieve the house keys from her husband.

She was told by her husband that he could not leave and even cellphone use was being restricted by the officers. An officer retrieved the keys from her husband, but he

was not immediately released.

Crime scene investigators and forensics experts are processing the crime scene and McDonnell expects the process to take several hours.

LBCC arranged for counselors

to be on campus Monday, June 23, to help students and employees cope with the aftermath of the shooting. In April, Lt. Julie Prior helped coordinate a mock shooting drill at the LAC to train officers how to respond.

TEXT ALERT SYSTEM OFFERED In the event of an emergency, LBCC will provide accurate and timely information regarding campus safety issues directly to students, employees, parents and community members.

To receive text message alerts, students must enter a mobile number by logging into their student self-service account.

LBCC will also share information about campus emergencies on its homepage and social-media pages: lbcc.edu facebook.com/lbcitycollege twitter.com/LBCityCollege

August 7, 2014

Student aid funds college for thousands

NEWS

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Student loans range from $5,000 to $20,000 and come in many forms.

Most of the loans range from $5,000 and up to $20,000 and the interest rate is about 5 percent depending on which one students choose.

If a person cannot qualify for a Pell Grant it might be the best way to go, officials say.

By Arnold James The Federal Work Study proStaff Writer gram is a good way to earn money All students who meet the el- for school expenses. Students can igibility requirements will receive earn money that does not have to be repaid while attending school financial aid.

The basic requirements are and is available for undergraduate being a U.S. citizen or eligible and graduate students, and the non-citizen, enrolled in an eligi- pay is at least the federal minible degree or certificate program. mum wage.

The jobs can be both on-and Also, a valid social security number, satisfactory academic off-campus and no maximum progress standards, high school amounts are set.

The new diploma or a GED and not The Federal Work Study pro- 2014-2015 fiaid being in default gram is a good way to earn nancial forms are now on a student loan are re- money for school expenses. in the system ready to print quired.

The amount financial aid stu- and submit. Students are encourdents will receive will also depend aged to remember to start checkon the cost of attendance, ex- ing their LBCC Student Center pected family contribution, year after a week to make sure their in school and being a full or half FAFSA was received.

The forms must filled out time student.

The three types of student aid correctly with tax and IRS inforare grants, loans and work-study. mation. The IRS DRT form will The easiest way to apply is on-line speed up the process if the stuat www.fafsa.gov and also as soon dent or their parents filed taxes as possible after Jan. 1 of the year that year.

Applicants may check the acthe money is needed.

The most common student count activity regularly on the Viaid is the Federal Pell Grant which king student system and see if the is available to all undergraduates funds were disbursed.

Financial Aid is located in who have yet to earn a bachelor’s A1075 at the LAC and the PCC or professional degree.

The Pell grant does not have office is located in MD 146.

The offices are open Monday to be repaid and pays up to $5,645 per semester with two refund dis- to Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., bursements put on a Higher One Thursday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on Fridays. The hours and card.

The loan programs, which phone number are the same for have to be paid back with interest, both campuses. Students may call are the Federal Perkins, Direct (562) 938-4485 for more informaSubsidized, Direct Unsubsidized tion. and Direct Plus Loans.

Lisa Hunter/Viking PLAY AND LEARN: Josh Reed, 5, and Keila Holsey, 4, have fun painting faces at a carnival for graduating preschoolers.

Child development area enrolling preschoolers Center offers excellent program for children, manager says.

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer Childcare applications are being accepted at the PCC and the LAC. Alec Colchico, manager at the Child Development Center (CDC) at the LAC, said, “The center is richly diverse and a great place for children. We provide a service to community, to family and to the students themselves.”

One special event at the preschool is an annual art show. Colorful creations are displayed at a daytime expedition to show off little Picasso’s in the making.

Trike wash day, playground dance parties and carnivals are other activities the children enjoy.

Tuition rates are lower than current market rates and a free food program is available for many participants.

Benjamin Diaz/Viking OATH OF OFFICE: Robert Garcia, former LBCC employee, becomes mayor of Long Beach on Tuesday July 15, as he is sworn in by state Attorney General Kamala D. Harris at the Terrace Theatre.

“Spaces are limited and spots fill up fast, especially for the 2year- olds,” Colchico said.

Robert Doolittle, 5, said, “We don’t have to do homework. We can relax and play and we don’t have to be scared.”

Siri Connor, an employee at the Department of Communication Studies and Sign Language at the LAC, has had her 5-yearold daughter, Bailey, enrolled in the program since age 2. Connor agrees with the center’s philosophy of learning through play. “I love the way the school applies important concepts of math and science by using relatable play objects like Play-Doh.” The children are constantly learning at their own level without academic pressure, she said.

The program is a rewarding environment for educators.

Markesha Taylor, a teacher at the PCC site, said, “The children’s excitement for learning is what makes the center a great place to work.” Parent participation is an additional plus, Taylor said.

Olivia Moreno, 4, said, “We have lots of toys and we do proj-

ects.”

The center not only serves as a preschool, but also a designated training facility for students seeking careers working with children and families.

If people have early-childhood development units, the center is always looking for substitute teachers.

“We are a lab school for the college. That’s what we are here first and foremost, because early- childhood education students come here to observe and study how children grow and develop,” Stacey Smith-Clark, manager at PCC said. The type of program offered at the preschool with such qualified staff members is very rare, she said.

“Childhood is so small,” Smith-Clark said. “This is their time and we need to celebrate childhood and offer them the opportunity to play.”

For more information about the Child Development Center, people may visit childrencenter. lbcc.edu or call (562) 938-4253 at the PCC or (562) 938-3079 at the LAC.

By Samwell Favela Contributing Writer

loves him and my kids love him,” Rick Taylor, 61, a political consultant, said.

With only being about 50 votes ahead the whole night against his opponent Damon Dunn, former LBCC teacher and public relations employee Garcia was on edge. It was not until later the next morning when Garcia found out he was about 1,000 votes ahead and was assured he won the race.

“I’m most thankful for all the students and volunteers who helped out in this election,” Garcia said.

With Garcia winning the election, he is not only the first Latino mayor of Long Beach, but the first openly gay mayor of Long Beach.

Former teacher wins mayor’s job The crowd applauded as Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia was sworn into office Tuesday, July 15.

He has hired LBCC Director of Communications Mark Taylor as his chief of staff and appointed LBCC Trustee Doug Otto as his transition chair.

Also, LBCC Trustee Roberto Uranga has vacated his seat to become a city councilman.

Garcia had entered his election party aboard the Queen Mary on Tuesday, June 3.

He posed for pictures and answered questions from people around him.

“I love Robert Garcia. My wife

NEWS

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August 7, 2014

Student advisers ready to assist

“They are a Godsend,” a nursing major says.

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Bridget Duncan/Viking IMPROVEMENT: President Eloy Oakley speaks before the groundbreaking event for the student services building Tuesday, July 8.

Service building work begins

By Bridget Duncan Staff Writer

A groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday, July 8, outside the GG Building signaled the start of construction on the PCC’s new student services building.

Amid red-ribboned shovels, a bulldozer and renderings of the new building, President, Eloy Oakley, thanked the people responsible for the building and said the building will be a “great addition to the PCC” making it easier for students to navigate.

The $23.4 million, 31,698-square foot building will house admissions and records, counseling, financial aid, Extended Opportunity Programs (EOPS), Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS), cashiering and food services, according to the news release from

Richard Garcia, associate director Lou Anne Bynum, executive in public relations and marketing. vice president of college advanceThe joint project by the Cor- ment and economic development doba Corp., Balfour Beatty Con- said, “People in the city of Long struction and RNT Architects will Beach will not believe it when it take up to 18 months to complete goes up…so thanks to the taxpayand will be ers.” celebrated They have “taken a step in the S e a n with a ribH u l e n , right direction” making LBCC bon cutting. vice presiIt is part of competitive in the California dent in the the 2020 schools. southwest master plan, division -Dustin Willis of Balfour said Tim film major C o n s t r u c Wo o t t o n , LBCC director of facilities. tion, said the abatement of hazBoard President, Jeff Kellogg, ardous material will be the next said the Student Services Building step in the project, which will is “another important milestone have a two-story glass store front in the future of the college.” and a triangular interior courtMeasure E bonds in 2002 and yard with a paging system.

2008 have allowed new building Dr. Meena Singhal, associate and modernization at LBCC to vice president of the PCC and in“meet the demands of our stu- terim vice president for academic dents,” Kellogg said. affairs said, “Today is its day.”

The site, originally Hamilton Junior High School in 1936, is Leadership in Energy and Environment Design Certified.

Among the guests eating Inside the Scoop ice cream and drinking LBCC labeled water, Ann-Marie Gabel, vice president of administrative services, who assists with contracts, chooses carpet and paint colors and arranges aspects of the construction project. The companies chosen from the three finalists of the design build project “best responded to the needs and scope of what the project would be.”

Dustin Willis, 23, a film major at PCC, said it will be good to have students centralized in one location. They have “taken a step in the right direction” making LBCC competitive in the California schools. “The palm trees bring it all together,” Willis said.

Friends, family speak out on suicide prevention

By Bridget Duncan Staff Writer If students are feeling suicidal they have several ways to seek help, Director of Student Life and Student Health Services Anita Gibbins said.

Students can speak to employees who will contact a mental health professional for an assessment; students can call the national suicide prevention hotline at (800) 794-2433 or go to the psychological services office in E208 at LAC or EE102 at PCC during business hours. Students can also call and leave a message for them at (562) 938-3987.

Misconceptions about depression exist in society and there is a belief that people should buck up, Gibbins said. “As a society, we need to get beyond that.”

Gibbins said the brain is a complicated mechanism with chemicals regulating moods, stress, bi-polar disease as well as other conditions.

Although sunshine, diet and exercise help us, “Sometimes we need more than that. We don’t have to be a therapist. We can all be a friend,” she said.

A question a friend or family member can ask someone who appears suicidal is, “Have you thought about hurting or killing yourself?” Gibbins said. “Asking the question does not make the person want to kill themselves.”

An anonymous mother, whose older daughter attends LBCC, said she had a “mental meltdown” after her younger daughter tried to kill herself for the second time.

Her daughter’s teacher read a book in class out loud about an autistic boy who wanted to kill himself while kids in the class yelled out that the boy should kill himself.

The daughter left the class, tied her backpack straps to a pole at school and tried to strangle herself, the mother said.

Although her daughter was laid back and relaxed at home, the mom said at school she was different. She was “trying to make a point” and her daughter’s attempt was a call for help for someone to listen to her.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSB) in its literature says between 25 and 50 percent of people who kill them-

selves had previously attempted suicide.

The Los Angeles Area Director for the foundation, Traute Winters, said, “There is help that you can get.” The foundation works with high-school kids through a program called “More Than Sad” and with Calif. State University students through an Online assessment tool, Interactive Screening Program. They can be reached at (888) 333-2377.

Winters said it is important to talk about suicide, educate people and inform the media what is appropriate, otherwise suicide can be a “contagion,” which glamorizes suicide. “News organizations when they cover suicides can in-

advertently inform vulnerable people to take their own lives,” Winters said.

Freeman Outlaw, 26, a culinary arts student at LBCC has a close friend who tried to kill herself. “For me it was confusing and scary,” Outlaw said. His friend was hospitalized and given anti-depressants. “We all get depressed, but we’re raised to suck it up.”

The foundation also holds Out of the Darkness Community Walks to raise awareness and money for suicide prevention.

Their next walk will be Saturday, Oct. 25 at Santa Monica Third Street Promenade. To volunteer, people may call (424) 327-7101.

TIPS ON SUICIDE PREVENTION

By John M. Grohol, doctorate of psychology and chief executive officer of Psych Central Start a conversation: I have been feeling concerned about you lately.

Question you can ask: Have you thought about getting help?

What you can say that helps: When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold off for just one more day, hour, minute, whatever you can manage.

The Department of Counseling and Student Development is accepting walk-in appointments for people who have quick questions regarding degree or transfer programs and 10 minute counseling services are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis.

John Washington, 27, an engineering major, waited 30 minutes to see a counselor.

He said his adviser was thorough, but he will revisit the counseling office later this Fall. “I was told that they tell you to do more than you really have to,” he said.

Washington is apprehensive about spending unnecessary time at LBCC and wants to transfer immediately to Cal State Long Beach after graduating.

“They are a Godsend,” Isaiah Eatman, 24, a nursing major, said.

“I received options from a counselor that I wouldn’t have known on my own.”

He said his meeting seemed short the first time he visited and he suggested students be prepared for their appointments.

“Know what your academic goal is ahead of time. Be very direct and very clear of your needs,” Eatman said.

Students are allowed to schedule reoccurring appointments to see an adviser for additional questions about courses and requirements or to change their academic plan.

If students are undecided about their career paths, career counselors are also available.

Lorraine Blouin, head of counseling at LAC, said, taking Counseling 1, Orientation to College Success, is a helpful course that goes over programs available on campus to help navigate the educational process. “If they are not sure of their major goal or career, then there’s Counseling 48, a one-unit career course.”

People who are uncertain that their academic plans are heading in the right direction may visit an adviser.

“They should come in as early as possible,” Blouin said. The counseling department is expected to be very busy during Fall registration, she said.

Blouin said a change of mind regarding educational endeavors is no cause for worry because many classes can be used toward electives or certificate programs.

Appointments requiring greater attention can be scheduled one week in advance online, in person or by phone at (562) 938-3987. Additional information about graduation and transfer requirements can be acquired at lbcc.edu/counseling.

August 7, 2014

New signal to aid disabled students

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Audio signals may be installed in August at the main crosswalk on Carson Street, leading from Building T to Building A, to help the visually impaired, the City of Long Beach has reported.

Kevin Riley, city traffic engineer associate, said audio traffic lights were purchased and delivered to the traffic operations division, the department responsible for the installation process.

“The work order is going out and the project should be completed within the next month or so,” Riley said July 16.

Visually impaired students petitioned for an audio traffic signal during the Spring semester.

Lindsay Kerr, 20, a liberal studies major, headed the cause and was supported by LBCC students, teachers and participants of the Disabled Students Program.

The request was approved

by the Board of Trustees. LBCC President Eloy Oakley said, “The Board supported the decision.”

Former Student Trustee Andrea Donado was the person who mostly handled the matter and attended a Long Beach City Council meeting in regards to the petition, Oakley said.

Audio traffic signals are important to people who are visually impaired because they provide guidance to pedestrians using audible sound. Audible sounds that are used vary from a simple tone, voice message or a distinct birdcall that informs visually impaired pedestrians when it is safe to cross the street.

Kerr said, “I started the petition on March, 25. I feel the progress is going quickly because I was talking to one of my advisers at Junior Blind of America (where she is currently doing her internship) and he told me it took 10 years to get the signal on Slauson and Alviso” near where she works.

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Lisa Hunter/Viking BIKES AND TRIKES: Children from the Child and Development Center ride their bicycles and scooters for Trike Day to develop socialization skills Thursday, July 3, at the PCC Lawn.

Ride teaches social skills

Group play helps kids with problem solving and emotional development.

mosphere.

Children were able to experience playing with kids from different classes while teachers observed how the children handled the interaction.

Alexis Masingill, 31, an early childhood education major who also works as a childcare assistant at the LAC center, said, “Playing with various age groups is a chance for them to practice following rules and to observe what they are interested in.”

While some children were captivated with the overall event and rode their vehicles repeatedly around a cemented pathway that circled the Lawn, other children got bored with riding and played in the grass. Kids who were more interested in one-on-one interaction sat and talked with one another on benches.

Preschoolers got plenty of exercise while riding and playing, but most importantly, they had the opportunity to work on important motor skill development, movement using the arms, legs

and torso. It’s vital for children to develop motor skills because one skill builds upon another and eventually leads to success in reading and writing, education. com said.

Babycenter.com said playtime is not just for a child’s enjoyment, but a necessary part of their childhood development. Jasmine Carter, 19, a film production major, said, “I think playing is important for kids because they need to learn how to socialize with people.”

Debi Bouwens, a human development teacher at LAC, said, “Trike day was a day of fun and a time of participation and cooperation, … Children learn by play. In a sense, play is their work and they develop a lot of skills that they will need for future life through play.”

Bouwens said most kindergarten teachers would rather have children come into their classrooms with good social skills, emotional development and ability to solve problems as opposed to being able to spell their name.

roney’s behalf, alleges a violation spoke with you about your mon- how an erroneous document of the contract between the col- itoring of staff and informed you could end up in a personnel file. lege and the classified union in that it was not your responsibili- Kossick described a system of that Maroney never received a ty to monitor others.” MacCullen tracking who originated docufive-month evaluation by Mac- states that Maroney continued ments, where they’re to be sent, Cullen. The grievance also stated to do so and Maroney’s “only re- the type of documents allowed that after her dismissal, “Maroney sponse was to huff and sigh” and in a file and double-checking. discovered a fraudulent evalua- that she was unable to take con- She said, “We don’t get too many tion that was placed in her per- structive criticism. off-the-wall documents.” Later in sonnel file without her knowlThe grievance cites that em- the meeting, Kossick declined to edge.” Only MacCullen’s comment specifically on signature is on the evalua- “Maroney discovered a fraudulent Maroney’s file or grievance tion that has a date of Dec. evaluation that was placed in her per- citing confidentiality.

18 or 19. MacCullen was in In the initial denial of a one-year probationary pe- sonnel file without her knowledge.” the grievance, the union riod at that time.

- Statement in grievance says that no reasons were In the five-month evalgiven for the dismissal and uation, MacCullen states in detail ployees who are to receive a nega- only that Rose Delgaudio, Vice that Maroney “failed to look up tive evaluation are to be informed President of Human Resources, and provide accurate informa- 24 hours in advance and have the offered one-month’s salary to Mation to students about the status right to representation and that roney as a settlement, which was of their Financial Aid” and did Maroney never received such no- rejected. Union representatives not follow office protocol by not tice. then asked to move the grievance asking students to show ID, that At a Personnel Commission to level two and asked if Delthis led to her having to intercede meeting April 7, Director of Hu- gaudio would like to comment on with students when they were man Resources Julie Kossick an- the lack of reasoning. Delgaudio confused and hostile. swered questions regarding who was unavailable for comment.

MacCullen also writes, “I has access to personnel files and In response to the appeal, the

college’s position, maintained by Vice President of Student Services Greg Petersen, was that Maroney’s release was permitted by Personnel Commission rules and regulations “a probationary employee may be dismissed at any time.”

Addressing the issue of a fivemonth evaluation, Petersen wrote that aspect of the contract “does not trump the Personnel Commission rules.”

The union’s position cites that the evaluation of employees is for the purpose of career development.

The process moved forward to level three, mediation, where a neutral party attempts to help both sides to reach an agreement.

A mediator makes no decision, only facilitates a mutual agreement. No agreement was reached, which brought the case to level four of the grievance process. On Monday, July 7, formal papers were filed with Delgaudio to begin the arbitration process.

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Lisa Hunter/Viking AUDIO LIGHT: City traffic engineer associate Kevin Riley said a new audio traffic light is expected to be installed on Carson Street in August at the LAC to help the hearing and visually impaired.

When preschoolers from the LAC Child and Development Center met with students from the PCC for Trike Day they encountered more than just a fun day in the sun.

On Thursday, July 3, preschoolers brought their tricycles, bikes, scooters and helmets for a play-date on the Lawn, giving them a chance to build socialization skills, strengthen necessary motor skills and learn about biking rules and safety.

The Summer event initiated interactive play among the preschoolers and allowed them the opportunity to learn in a fun at-

Probationary supervisor fires probationary employee Financial Aid specialist appeals through grievance process.

By Benjamin Diaz Staff Writer Representing terminated employee Roberta Maroney in a grievance against LBCC, the classified employees union’s executive board voted Wednesday, July 2, to pay for her share of arbitration fees, which could be around $7,500.

Maroney was at the end of a six-month probation period as a Financial Aid specialist and said that she was dismissed unexpectedly on Dec. 18 by her supervisor Ruth MacCullen, deputy director of enrollment services, with no reason given.

The grievance, filed on Ma-

CITYSTYLE

6

Logging off after 40-year session Records specialist Myrian Baratie retires and talks about huge changes.

Benjamin Diaz/Viking FOUR DECADES: Records specialist Myrian Baratie stands among records in the Admissions and Records Office in the A Building before her retirement party Thursday, June 26.

that they were required to do teaching and not clerical work.”

With time, they became used to and came to prefer newer systems.

The records specialist looks back fondly at working with students, “It was upbeat, it kept you young. I liked to have a rapport with the students.”

In 1993, she inherited the certificate program for achievement and accomplishments. Before then, certificates were handled by each department.

She said she really enjoyed the task because she could get more connected with the students. She and her colleagues could go out of their way to help the students, suggesting things and looking out for their best interest.

Being involved in their success brings former students coming by to give updates. She finds updates very satisfying. International students keep in contact too. One who now lives in Japan keeps her posted.

She said she misses her old managers, “They were old school

Benjamin Diaz/Viking RELICS: Baratie’s co-worker, Maria Rubalcava, found course catalogs from 1974, 1984, 2004 and 2014 to demonstrate Baratie’s four-decade career at LBCC.

and had really good work ethics.”

Maria Rubalcava, a records specialist with the department for 15 years, said she considers Baratie a co-worker and a friend.

“She handles a huge volume of certificates. We offer help and she says ‘I’m done.’ She paces herself.

The department will be missing her knowledge. We will miss her

laughter and personality. I will miss her laughter.”

In her spare time, Baratie enjoys camping and working out.

Her daughters keep her active.

Together they’ve gone gold mining.

She plans to travel to Italy.

“Oh and my husband, guess I should mention him too.”

Officers patrol parking lots Cart drivers gain criminal-justice experience in .

By Bridget Duncan Staff Writer Some of the cart drivers who enforce parking laws on the campuses are students working part time and getting experience toward their criminal justice degree, a parking enforcement officer said Tuesday, June 24.

Soksophanaroth Mao, 19, a business major, applied for the position after his uncle, a Long Beach police officer, talked him into it.

After a month of driving as a passenger with a parking enforcement officer and some computer training, Mao has been driving his own cart for two months, enjoying the breeze it gives him on a hot day, he said.

“You’re pretty much like a hall

Campus life mixes fun and school

By Samuel Perez Staff Writer

By Benjamin Diaz Staff Writer It’s common to hear smartphone-dependent students complain about glitches in the PeopleSoft system. Well, imagine an all-paper system where students stood in lines with hours-long wait times.

Retiring from a career at LBCC that began in January 1974, Records specialist Myrian Baratie knows intimately such scenes that took place at the beginning of each semester.

“It was all manual. Registration was horrendous. I was in one room packed with a line of students waiting for me to code them,” Baratie said when describing a registration process that would take the admissions department over four weeks to complete. “We had to go one by one.”

State-of-the art electric typewriters were in use at LBCC when Baratie began working at the PCC. It used to be the department’s responsibility to generate the roll books and distribute them to each teacher.

At the end of the semester, the teachers actually stood in lines at records and admissions to turn in their roll books. Later, when computers were introduced, Baratie would have to scan documents by eye to make sure what was on screen matched hard copies. No scanners were available.

When a scantron system was introduced, Baratie said teachers were initially upset that they had to do the scanning themselves.

She said they would gripe about having to go above and beyond,

August 7, 2014

monitor,” Mao said from his white The carts, which go 10-15 Police Department and said many Taylor Dunn cart, seated next to mph, are driven by parking ser- of them move on to become poa bottle of water with sweat form- vices department employees to lice officers and deputy sheriffs. ing on his forehead. write parking tickets, assist stu- Meyer added a woman in the proAlthough Mao added some dents, drive handicapped stu- gram became a public works emdays are unusual, such as coming dents, call into dispatch any prob- ployee in parking enforcement. across a dog sleeping in a student’s lems on the campuses and assist If students are interested in car, finding a parking receipt on during special events such as the program Meyer said as long a car with the date changed in graduation, the officer said. as they have the required 12 units pen, a note left for two a valid driver’s li“(The officers) Have a job to do. They need to and months on the same cense, they can apply car asking not to be not take it personally and take the high road.” for the two positions ticketed and an angry he is trying to fill by -John Meyer female student who calling him at (562) Coordinator of health and parking tried to hit Mao with 938-4713. her car after being ticketed, missThe officer said the drivers LBCC parking fees for cars ing him by only a step. have had things thrown at them and motorcycles in designated Wishing to stay anonymous and have had their cars keyed in student lots will increase during for safety reasons, a parking en- the parking lot.

Fall 2014 from $25 to $30 and the forcement officer said that stuJohn Meyer, the coordinator daily rate will increase from $1 to dents must complete 12 units of the Department of Environ- $2. prior to applying to the parking mental Health and Safety and You can purchase a parking enforcement program.

Parking Services, said, “Not ev- permit online or at the Cashiers “If you’re a criminal justice eryone is happy to get a ticket.” office. If you paid the parking major and you want to be a cop, The officers “Have a job to do. fees online a parking permit will this is one job you want to expe- They need to not take it personal- be mailed to your home. Student rience because you wear a uni- ly and take the high road.” parking is free in student spaces form,” the parking enforcement Meyer said the officers work in during the first two weeks of the officer said. conjunction with the Long Beach Fall and Spring semesters.

Art major Lorie Gurrero, 19, said she was doing well then sighed as she continued to say with a grin, “Campus life is pretty fun and the instructors are eccentric.”

Gurrero who is taking an introduction course to logic during the Summer session on the LAC also declared that the construction is a pain, but not the campus.

Campus life for many students is to go hard and study through the semester until finals arrive leaving the student wondering what is left to do over the Summer break. For Kevin Kyle Gacos, 19, a nursing major, he and his friends thought panhandling after Fall finals would get them to a summer concert. They never made enough, but dropping in during Summer session to see friends is just as fun for them.

Friendships and school spirit is what makes campus life in a college environment where education comes first and guidelines make it difficult to have extreme amounts of fun while learning.

But at a college with no visible school spirit, it’s no surprise students are not found in large groups gathered on the quad or in the hallways.

“The PCC is dead compared to the LAC and the LBCC Confession-Page isn’t any help at all when needing a good social structure to make positive contacts,” Gacos said.

Not to compare the social atmosphere of the PCC and the LAC as both balance trade and liberal art courses having 49 percent of classes attended at the LAC and 14 percent on the PCC including 15 percent of students attending classes on both campuses. Furthermore, as students transition coming from various ethnicities to being “just a college student,” at a community college, that so happens to offer a two-campus college to attend, an invisible inequality exist.

When students at LAC were asked their experience so far at school was, visible was the frustration for stopping a moment just before class to speak with a reporter representing the school newspaper.

Campus police were unable to be reached for comment about how they believe students perceive their impact on campus life, but Long Beach Police Department homicide Det. Peter Lackovic, who is investigating a shooting incident that occurred June 19 at the PCC between an officer and a LBCC student.

“Indeed there is a social discrepancy between the two campuses. The two-part college campus, one in an area of higher risk of crime than the other, as well as having enrolled students who reside in these high risk areas brings that negative social vibe to the school,” Lackovic said.

CITYSTYLE

August 7, 2014

Results shock film festival winner

7

By Brandon Richardson Managing Editor

Brandon Richardson/Viking ROLL CAMERA: The audience watches and laughs along to Scott Kumar’s comical narrative “Deadlines” at LBCC’s 8th annual Film Festival on Monday, June 2.

the first film I’ve ever edited, directed, acted in, anything. I just did everything as easy as possible The silver screen lit up the fac- to make it work and it turned out es of around 75 spectators in the pretty good, I guess.”

LBCC Auditorium during the 8th The budgets for the films proannual Film Festival on Monday, duced by students are funded June 2. from their own pockets.

Commercials and narratives Eli Daughdrill, head of the were the two categories for stu- film department and adviser of dents to submit their films into. the Film Club, said, “They have to Commercials were anywhere pay for everything. The most exfrom 30 seconds to one minute, pensive one, I think, was around while narratives ran a little longer, $1,400. That was the highest, but ranging from three minutes to I’d say if we did the mean, the just under 10 minutes. mean would probably be $400 or Daniel Castle, unavailable for so.” comment, won best commercial Eli explained that the high exfor his “Rapenses dio Television “This is actually the first film I’ve come Promotion,” f r o m while Scott ever edited, directed, acted in, food, Kumar, 21, an anything. ” permits, undeclared insur-Scott Kumar a n c e , major, won Undecided major for best narextra rative. equipment that students may Kumar’s narrative, “Dead- want to rent, locations, props, lines,” follows a young music costumes and anything else that producer forced to work out of might be needed. his bedroom with a loud family However, none of the films at home. It was one of the more would be possible without havcomical films, with Kumar using ing strong support and guidance his own family as his co-stars. from the LBCC film program.

Kumar said, “It was a big Eli said, “We’re a pretty strong shocker. I wasn’t expecting it. transfer program. For the second There were at least two other ones year in a row, we are sending a that I was pretty sure would win student to NYU, and we send stuover me, but I’m very grateful.” dents to USC, UCLA and all the Most of the films shown were state schools. It’s what we’re trying made during the Film 21 class, to do and we’re pretty proud of it intermediate digital film produc- because we’re pretty successful at tion, over the Spring semester. it so far.”

However, some were made in Students have less than a year radio television classes and some until the next film festival and were even independently made by they are encouraged to participate students in their free time. by producing a narrative, comIn fact, the winning submis- mercial, documentary or even an sion by Kumar was one made in- animated film to be submitted to dependently of any class.

Daughdrill at edaughdrill@lbcc.

Kumar said, “This is actually edu.

Emmy winning teacher inspires students to broadcast

By Becca Urrutia Staff Writer

than anything I have a passion for broadcasting.”

The students share a passion for broadcasting, as their eyes light up when discussing all the previous legends, in the field of radio and television.

Jason Long, 25, a radio and television major, when talking about what he likes about LBCC,

own sports talk show.

Jobs available in all parts of the world, and well-trained talThe energy was electric in the ented sports broadcasters are high Radio and TV 1 class at the LAC in demand. as an Emmy was passed around Internship-students can see for students to touch. Students if they enjoy it, and the sponsor rubbed the Emmy as they would can decide whether the student for the genie to grant their wishis a right match for the company. es. Excited mutters were heard Students have the choice to stay or throughout the classroom. find another field.

They were imagining the Jennifer Pang 20, a nursing “I love this field, it’s part of my opportunities that this class major, said that she is taking this major and I want to keep busy gives them. class because it fulfills her genRobert Hersh teach- this summer. ” eral education. es Radio/TV 1, IntroducThe possibilities for students -Kelsey Brandin are also available in any field tion to Broadcasting and a Film and video major multi-Emmy award winthey desire, including, anchor, ning director whose credits range said, “The classes, especially the writer, digital imaging technician, from radio, television, game R/TV on-camera, and the campus director, costumes and wardrobe, shows and national sports. His is safe.” computer effects, concept artist, awards include the Peabody, CaThere are many fields in radio consulting producer, animator, ble ACE, Columbia DuPont, Na- and television broadcasting with art department coordinator, autional Education Association and many opportunities available for dio visual technician, broadcast two Director’s Guild of America men and women. In sports you engineer, camera operator and awards. can go into announcing, talk camera assistant.

Hersh lectured about how ra- show host, commentator, analyst, Kelsey Brandin, 20, a film and dio was crumbling in the ‘1950s, press box, sportscaster, anchor, video major, said, “I love this field, until the country was swept away producer, information director, it’s part of my major and I want to by rock-and-roll, and he said that’s telecast operations, sports radio keep busy this summer.” what saved the radio industry. voice and sideline reporter.

With Hersh, students say they Isaac Dickson, 25, a multimeAnother possibility is intern- feel confident that they can obtain dia major, said, “I want a promo- ships. Students can learn how to their dreams and as Walt Disney tion at my current job, and this host weekly coaching shows, cre- once said, “If you can dream it, class will help me do it, but more ate a sports personality and their you can do it.”

Becca Urrutia/Viking CUE LAUGH TRACK: Radio and TV teacher Robert Hersh shows off his Emmy to his class. Hersh has been awarded the prestigious honor multiple times as a director of television shows.

CITYSTYLE

8

August 7, 2014

Katie Cortez/Viking SWIMMING HER WAY TO HEALTH: LBCC senior studies manager Mary Thoits, 91, is escorted out of the ocean

by Long Beach lifeguard Sean Guerin after her morning swim. Thoits swims in the ocean of Downtown Long Beach every morning to keep active.

Juan Ferrer/Viking NEVER STOP WORKING: Mary Thoits, the PCC senior studies center manager, speaks inside the senior center.

91-year-old inspires seniors at PCC

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Swimming in the ocean is a daily activity for 91-year-old Mary Thoits, manager of the senior center at PCC. Thoits encourages seniors to stay active and healthy through exercise and takes heed to her own advice every day.

Sean Guerin, a Long Beach lifeguard, keeps an eye on Thoits as she swims at Belmont Shore beach and refers to her as his morning date.

“She’s incredible at 91. The fact that she is still out here and she’s not just out floating around,

she actually gets into the water heads the senior studies program lovers, world affairs and current and she swims. I’m completely and oversees the activities and events, brain power and drive amazed that she is as young as she events at the senior center named sharp classes and LBCC commuis despite her actual number age,” for her. nity symphonic band.

Guerin said.

The purpose of the center is to Thoits said she feels the se“Life is an adventure or it is niors at the center serve as nothing,” Thoits said, referring “There is a reason why we’re role models to the students at to a Helen Keller quote from She said students ofhere. You always should have a LBCC. her book “The Open Door.” ten come by and say how they She reminds students at LBCC reason and a purpose in life.” wished their parents or grandto set a goal and encourages -Mary Thoits parents would be as active as them to stay focused. “There Senior Center manager the participants of the center is a reason why we’re here. You or register for classes themalways should have a reason and a challenge seniors and encourage selves. purpose in life,” she said. them physically, spiritually and She said the seniors at the cenThoits received a bachelor of mentally. ter are there to help and support arts degree from DePauw UniverSenior studies courses in- the students at LBCC and want to sity and a master of arts degree clude music appreciation for con- show them that there is more life from Cal State Long Beach. She cert-goers and musical theater than just sitting back.

The senior center will be changing its name from the Mary Thoits Senior Center to the Leaning Life Center as requested by Thoits. She said life is learning and people never stop learning as long as they live.

Thoits said social connection is important for senior students.

“As people get older, sometimes they pull back, but sometimes they want things that they didn’t get a chance to do like travel and learn about what’s happening in the world and things like music, so this is their opportunity.”

More information is available by visiting lbcc.edu/SeniorCenter or calling (562) 938-3048.

Robert Johnson is the vocational instructional aide in the program and club adviser for the Metal Fabrication Club.

The PCC welding lab has been approved as a Los Angeles City welding test lab. Shoemaker also said he hopes that final approval will be given to the teachers to administer welding tests. Marlin Stevens is the welding vocational instructional aide and he maintains the welding lab and monitors welding certification tests.

Shoemaker said, “The shops are set up so that it moves from beginning to end.” The student work-stations will help expedite training and shop instruction.

“In metal fabrication, students start from a blueprint, select the correct sheet size and move on to the next step to produce a final product. Everything is hands-on, so valuable techniques are part of the training,” Shoemaker said.

Deandre Parks, 31, a metal fabrication major, said, “When I get certification, it will improve the quality of life for my family.”

David Root, 48, student trustee, said, “I want to open an auto body shop and metal fabrication is a large part of it.”

Students can seek jobs depending on their skill level, from

ations include sheet metal artistry.

Josie Meugniot, 49, a metal fabrication major, held up cuttings that were painted and said, ”These are only a few designs we can make.”

Students can explore the education grants available and each industry has its own funding.

New program combines welding and sheet metal

By Becca Urrutia Staff Writer Classes that were once known as welding and sheet metal are now included in the metal fabrication technology classes.

Tim Shoemaker, a metal fabrication teacher, said, “The program is a comprehensive set of minimum standards and guidelines and is to the advantage of students, which will begin in the Fall.

Students will have better employment opportunities in the many career paths that are related to metal fabrication and welding industries.”

The classes will emphasize sheet-metal layout, fabrication, and an option for welding courses as part of the student’s certificate or degree. The student also will have the opportunity to take the industry recognized Los Angeles City structural welding certification performance test. If passed, the student will receive an industry-recognized certificate.

Shoemaker is also an American Welding Society-certified educator and teaches metal fabrication and welding courses.

Patrick Heeb also teaches courses in metal fabrication.

Becca Urrutia/Viking WELDING THEIR FUTURE: David Root, left, and Josie Meugniot are enrolled in a metal fabrication technology class. A new program combines classes to help students obtain better employment opportunities in the many career paths related to metal fabrication and welding industries.

an entry-level position to advanced skills. Many jobs in welding are manufacturing welder fabricator, certified pipe welder fitter and the hottest welding jobs are in certified welding inspectors, engineers, technicians, managers and supervisors.

Welding courses are also

taught by a staff of part-time teachers.

Julie Schneider, Che Chancy, Victor Silva and Charles Deering.

They contribute years of industry teaching experience.

Students learn the machinery including details of bending and cutting. Design aspects of the cre-

CITYSTYLE

August 7, 2014

9

LBCC preschool teacher wins top award

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Debra Watts, a preschool teacher at the Child Development Center and Learning Lab at the PCC, was recognized as one of the Los Angeles Universal Quality Preschool Teachers of the Year at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration on Tuesday, May 27.

The group is a non-profit organization that provides access to quality preschool programs for children in the Los Angeles area.

A press release from Celia Ayala, the chief executive officer of the group, said, “From the bottom of my heart, I thank you teachers like Debra Watts, who has dedicated her life to making sure she brings excellence to everything she touches in the early care and education world.”

Watts was awarded a $2,000 cash prize through the Elizabeth Lowe/Bob Weekley Award for Excellence in Preschool Teaching, plus $500 in classroom supplies.

Watts has been a preschool teacher for 25 years and is a mentor teacher with the California Early Childhood Mentor Program.

“It’s no secret. It’s experience that’s what it is,” Watts said. It takes time to learn the ins and outs of the trade, she said, and to figure out what works and what doesn’t.

She is known for going the extra mile studying and researching for great activities to provide her students. Her curriculum involves knowing each one of her student’s interests and gearing her curriculum to fit their needs.

“I have to know 24 kids. I have to know each one and learn that

Lisa Hunter/Viking POW-WOW: Teacher, Debra Watts, reads “Shed be Coming Around the Mountain” during circle time to students Sophia Freeh, 3, Matthew Lopez, 2, Anthony Morales, 3, and Cybele Zeigler, 4, from front to back, at the Child Development Center at PCC.

what will work for one will not work for the other because we are all different.”

Regrouping is a key element to Watt’s successful teaching technique. Her daily routine involves reflection, learning from successes and failures and maintaining a focus on ways to improve.

Her demonstration of leadership, creativity, dedication and

passion for teaching is why she was chosen as one of Los Angeles County’s finest. She has an enthusiastic concern for her students and making her classroom work.”

I have a responsibility to help them grow,” Watts said.

She earned an associate of arts degree in early childhood education from LBCC and a bachelor’s of arts degree in human develop-

ment from Pacific Oaks College.

She encouraged LBCC students to go as far as they can with their education and said they should continue developing themselves through workshops, conferences and seminars.

Watts credited her co-workers when she spoke about her award.

“It’s not just me here, it’s a team. … The team is the one who made

it happen cause we work together very well. Everybody who works here, their heart is here and they are dedicated to it,” she said.

Angelica Hernandez, a child development major, said, “She tries very hard to get everyone to work together as a team to accomplish our goal, which is for the children to thrive in this environment.”

Former homecoming queen gives back to the community

By Bridget Duncan Staff Writer The 1980 LBCC Homecoming queen has started a paid on-thejob training program to give former prisoners a second chance.

Sylvia Burrough, who was a business major at the time, has worked in job development since she left LBCC starting Opportunity to Enter or Re-Enter the Work Environment in July 2010 To assist former prisoners with the paid on-the-job portion of the program, Burrough sought out professional athletes and celebrities.

She also asks businesses to fill out her online survey to expand the number of businesses involved in the program at oerwe. org. “When you are a good person, what do you do? That’s where I step in,” Burrough said.

The program, which has aims to assess skill levels, educate, counsel and place people in dire situations in paid on-the-job training in local businesses, has been endorsed by Food For Less, The Los Angeles Probation Office, Farmers and Merchants Bank, LBCC American and African American history teacher Melvin Ross Jr., Greg Peterson, LBCC vice president of student sup-

port services, former Indianapolis Colts football player Chuck Miller, sports commentator Jim Hill and artist Benjamin Jackson among others.

Jackson said, “Her cause and what it is for, I’m for that.” Jackson will apprentice former inmates and be part of Burrough’s paid on-the-job training program. “I want to open myself up to teaching men and women to make furniture and become renowned artists. We need to wake up and be our brother’s keeper,” Jackson said.

Dorri Komarek, employer services consultant at TelePayroll, also in attendance said, “My boss really likes to give back to the community and be a part of it.”

TelePayroll is working with Burrough to process the paid on-the-job training that will help establish good credit for the participants and keep their cable and electricity bills paid without fees.

Hattie Herring, whose children attended school with Burrough’s children, said, “She’s taking a step with this program that should have been taken awhile ago.” Herring said trade-tech classes were important to get a job and to channel former prisoners.

As Shelea’s CD played at the event, history teacher Ross said

to remedy the problem of incarceration, black youth need a quality education, black and brown young men need to stay in school.

The road to college or some type of skilled training and counseling is needed as well as federal fund-

ing of programs and activities in low-income areas.

A 49-year-old administration and social work LBCC student who has been incarcerated twice and who wished to stay anonymous said students should find

out who they are so they can be part of something. “Don’t deprive yourself. California is good,” he said.

Former prisoners and business owners can call Burrough at (562) 552-5726.

Bridget Duncan/Viking GETTING BACK ON TRACK: Sylvia Burrough works Wednesday, July 16, calling business owners, professional athletes and actors to participate in Opportunity to Enter or Re-Enter the Work Environment.

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MAP

Pacific Coast Campus

August 7, 2014

1305 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, Calif. 90806

August 7, 2014

MAP

Liberal Arts Campus

4901 E. Carson Street, Long Beach, Calif. 90808

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12

SPORTS

August 7, 2014

Kids enjoy Summer recreation program

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

The 44th annual Summer Youth Recreation Program was conducted at LBCC from June 23–July 31. Families with children ages 4 through 13 were allowed to register two months in advance.

College budget cuts resulted in a four-day Summer session, but many programs were extended by an hour to compensate.

The Summer curriculum, taught by coaches from LBCC athletic teams, included tennis, golf and fitness instruction and sports camps for boys and girls.

Director Jenny Sears supervised all aquatic activities.

Many parents of children enrolled in the program were once attendees themselves and individuals and siblings return year after year.

Chris Ruiz, the program’s director, said, “The program is a Lisa Hunter/Viking long standing tradition that is COURT IS IN SESSION: Coach Kevin Motoyasu teaches the tennis for peewee and beginners class on Tuesday, June 10. deeply rooted in the community. The kids enjoy it, the parents know that they are in a safe place quite a few friends from school time here and when their parents and they know they are going to that also attended the program. come, they ask if they could stay a have a good time. It’s awesome,” “The program keeps the kids busy little bit longer. That tells us that Ruiz said. and gives them something to do we’re doing something great here One parent, Kevin Stiles, said cause you can’t always entertain and that they are really enjoythe program is convenient for his them all the time,” He said. ing their time here because they family since they live close by.

The Little Vikes extended su- choose to stay longer rather than His daughter Kaitlin attended the go home.” program this Summer and “The program is a long standing tradiThe daycare director said his older daughter, Samanmany employees who work tha, The program is a long tion that is deeply rooted in the com- on campus bring their chilstanding tradition that is munity. The kids enjoy it, the parents dren to the daycare because deeply rooted in the comknow that they are in a safe place.“ of its convenient location. munity. The kids enjoy it, Ruiz planned to take the the parents know that they - Chris Ruiz kids on a tour of the camProgram director pus, especially to the LBCC are in a safe place and they know they are going to have theater and the culinary art a good time. It’s awesome,” Ruiz pervision program offered child- department. said. care before and after scheduled Although the programs focus “The program is a long stand- events from 7:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. is on summertime fun and not ing tradition that is deeply rooted Activities included arts and crafts, academics, the children are enin the community. The kids enjoy games, movie time, open swim, couraged to write a daily journal it, the parents know that they are and outdoor activities like soccer, entry about their time spent at the in a safe place and they know they volleyball and basketball. center. “It’s nice being on a colare going to have a good time. It’s Javier Ruiz, director of Little lege campus because it allows the awesome,” Ruiz said.

Vikes daycare, said, “The pro- kids to get a feel for what its like Lisa Hunter/Viking When she was younger. Stiles gram is awesome summer fun. … being a college student,” he said.

RETURN: A participant from the youth center summer recreation said he likes that his daughter had “I like when the kids enjoy their program hits the ball during tennis lessons.

Dive-in movie makes a big splash with ‘Lego’ film

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Lisa Hunter/Viking DIVING IN: Families enjoy “The Lego Movie” while swimming in the pool at LAC on Tuesday, July 1.

Long Beach parents felt welcomed and safe as six lifeguards watched over the children.

they set up for the movie you had a choice to either stay in the pool or sit by the screen to watch the The LBCC Summer Fun movie. The projector and lighting Youth Recreation Program at was actually pretty good. My kids LAC presented a dive-in movie didn’t want to leave. They enjoyed night on Tuesday, July 1 from 7:30 the movie and to top it off, I felt - 10:30 p.m. safe.”

The entry fee was $3 for Palomares’ daughter, Gianna, swimmers and no cost to sit in 6, said, “It was so exciting because the stands. Families had an hour it was nighttime. Me and my sister of free swim followed by “The had so much fun and I can’t wait Lego Mov- “My kids didn’t want to leave. until next ie”. Adults time because and kids They enjoyed the movie and to we are going of all ages top it off, I felt safe.” to see ‘Frorelaxed in zen’.”

- Rodrigo Palomares flotation deSummer Parent vices as they recreation watched the movie. program director Chris Ruiz said Rodrigo Palomares, 38, a the two dive-in movie nights last manager at FedEx, said, “When year were so popular that they I first came to the pool with my added an additional showing this kids, I felt welcomed.” He said that summer. The next events will be while parents were very watchful Tuesday, July 15 and July 29. of their kids, at least six lifeguards “This is definitely a safe and surrounded the area with a clear fun place to bring your kids. I emphasis on safety. “As soon as bring my kids here,” Ruiz said.

August 7, 2014

SPORTS

Talented players return Team is optimistic despite suspensions from brawl.

Brandon Richardson/Viking ARMED AND READY: Kenny Potter, sophomore starting quarterback, puts in work to get ready for the season.

Vikes gain new coach

However, with the brawl at the end of last season, it was unclear what fallout would be felt at the beginning of the upcoming season.

Viking coach Brett Peabody

By Brandon Richardson said, “The way it ended, it embarManaging Editor rassed us as a program, it embarrassed our college and we’re not Spirits are running high on proud of that. Granted, were we the gridiron at Veterans Memoriall to blame? No. But we were all al Stadium. accountable for the actions we had In spite of a 4-6 record last in that situation. We’re dealing season and the loss of 17 players with some serious repercussions going on to universities, the Vifrom it. Fortunately, we don’t king football team is preparing have a for a big season post-seawith plenty of “This year our goal is, at minis o n optimism. mum, to get a bowl. Hopefully ban, but K e n n y there are win the conference title..”

Potter, 20, a several sophomore -Brett Peabody p l a y e r s Vikings coach and starting who will quarterback, said, “As a team, we miss one or two games to start the have high expectations. We have season.” a lot of talent returning, we have a Peabody would not give the season under our belt and I think names of the suspended players that’s going to help us a lot comout of respect for their privacy, ing in.” but joked that it will become apWith the season starting on parent who they are once the seaSept. 6, the team is showing no son begins and they are not on the signs of easing up on their prepafield. rations.

He went on to say, “This year Daylon Cason, 20, a sophoour goal is, at minimum, to get a more and defensive back, said, bowl. Hopefully win the confer“This year the team is shaping up ence title and hopefully play for a like we want it to. It looks great. state championship. We don’t put We’re really a different team now. the cart before the horse, we’re foOur whole mindset is different, cused on the process right now.” our whole swagger is different.”

13

But despite the minor setbacks, the team, as well as the coaching staff, is pumped and ready to show that all their blood, sweat and tears will pay off with a great season.

De’Quan Hampton, 20, a wide receiver, committed to attend USC, said, “I feel that the first game is really going to say what we’re going to do for the rest of the season. So we just have to come out strong and just do our thing.”

The Vikings will kick off their season hosting Moorpark at 6 p.m. Saturday, September 6 at Veterans Stadium.

Football season schedule Sat. Sept. 6 Moorpark

at LBCC 6 p.m.

Sat. Sept. 13 Palomar

at LBCC 6 p.m.

Sat. Sept. 20 Bakersfield

at Bakersfield 6 p.m.

Sat. Sept. 27 *LA Harbor

at LA Harbor 6 p.m.

Sat. Oct. 4 *Mt. SAC

at LBCC 6 p.m.

Sat. Oct. 11 *Allan Hancock at Allan Hancock 4 p.m.

Sat. Oct. 18 *Chaffey

at Chaffey 6 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 1 *Riverside

at LBCC 6 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 8 *Citrus

at Citrus 1 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 15 *El Camino

at LBCC 6 p.m. *Conference game

Volleyball season looks bright.

Lakeport High School in Northern California, the Sports Shack Volleyball and the Orange County Volleyball clubs and Volleyball

By Arnold James Enterprises, Inc. While at LakeStaff Writer port High School, she earned all-county honors twice, the LBCC named Trisha Marx LBCC website said.

A press release added that she the new women’s volleyball head coach for the Fall season Athletics received her bachelor’s degree in Director Joe Cascio announced, sociology, with minors in eduaccording to the LBCC website. cation and digital arts at U.C. IrMarx is replacing Suzie Witmer, vine. Marx also earned a master’s who left as head coach of wom- degree in physical education at en’s volleyball after eight seasons Azusa Pacific University.

Marx told LBCC, “I want to at LBCC. Cascio said, “I am extremely thank Suzie for the tremendous happy to have Coach Marx take job she did, not only at the colover our women’s volleyball pro- lege, but also in the community.”

Marx is hoping to improve on gram. She brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record the Vikings 2013 season that had of academic success. The future of an 11-12 overall record. The team finished LBCC women’s volleyball “It would be fabulous to make the fourth in the conis extremely playoffs this first year.” ference bright.”

-Trisha Marx with an According Vikings coach 8-6 mark, to the Everythe press thing Long Beach website, Marx played on the U.C. Irvine women’s release said.

Connie Sears, Dean of Stuvolleyball team from 2003-2006 and was named three times to the dents and Athletics, said, “I’m Big West Scholar Athletic Team. very pleased to have Trisha join Marx coached at East Los Ange- the coaching staff at LBCC. Her les College from 2009-2012. She emphasis on academic success, just finished a stint coaching the as well as success on the volleyBalboa Bay Volleyball Club. Marx ball court, is closely in line with had been with the club since 2012. the goals of the school. We look Marx said to Everything Long forward to a great season ahead Beach, “I’m really happy with the of us.”

LBCC is tentatively schedstudent-athletes and staff we have in place. I think we can pose a uled to begin the 2014 season at strong threat to a lot of teams in the Cerritos College Scrimmage the South Coast Conference this Tournament on Friday, Aug 29. season. It would be fabulous to The season officially starts on Friday, Sept. 5 with LBCC hosting make the playoffs this first year.”

Marx also has coached for San Diego Mesa College at noon.

Lisa Hunter/Viking RUNNING MEN: The LBCC men’s cross country team practices for its season at Veterans Stadium on Wednesday, July 23.

Runners want state championship

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

Julio Jimenez, coach for the LBCC’s men’s cross country team, has high expectations for the Fall season.

Last year was Jimenez’s first year at LBCC and he has increased the team from six to 18.

Jimenez has a master’s in kinesiology from Chico State University, where he coached the men’s cross country team for two years. The coach brings experience to LBCC that creates a hopeful environment for his runners. “People are going to be surprised this year,” he said. The team made it to the South Coast Conference Championship last year, but he hopes they will ad-

vance to the Southern California Regionals and then all the way to the state championships this year.

“We have the talent to do it and the guys to do it,” he said.

Preparations for the season began July 7, but the team members were given an off-season workout regimen to accomplish on their own time. The runners had conditioning practices in July to keep fit, but are planning to increase their pace and reach peaking times by November.

Omar Torres and Justin Weaver are the top two runners who will lead the group. “They’ve proven that based on their talent and performance,” Jimenez said.

Torres, a psychology major said, “My goals are to go sub 25 (minutes) in the 8K and go to

19:40s in the four milers and be in the Top 5 at the state championship.”

Weaver, an aerospace tech major, said his goal is to run high 19s and sub 20s. His best time over 4 miles is 21:40. “When you come to college, it’s different than high school. There’s more competitors. You want to do your best and achieve great things. Looking at the records up on our board, I want to achieve something like that. I’m trying to take down that 800-meter record,” he said. The current record is 1:48.

The Mark Covert Classic meet will be LBCC’s first cross country race. It will be hosted by Cal State Fullerton at 8 a.m. on Friday, Aug 30, at Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea.

SPORTS

14

August 7, 2014

Vikings working toward championship

By Bridget Duncan Staff Writer

Preparing to head off to concussion testing, Dave Kasa, assistant coach to the LBCC water polo teams, stopped to speak for a moment Monday, July 28, as the teams of men and women completed laps during their morning training at the LAC pool.

“We check these boxes,” Kasa said. Physicals, training, medical check-ups and concussion tests are all part of taking care of the team, he said.

The team that is still adding players practices four days during the Summer and five days a week once the Fall semester begins.

Angelica Xiang, 19, a sophomore cutter, who suffered a concussion last season, and Ashley Diaz, 19, a sophomore speed counter attacker, who suffered a shoulder injury, will return to the women’s team this Fall and are eager to play again, Kasa said.

Nathan Pinkney, 19, and Blake Grove, 19, sophomores, will return this semester as starters for the men’s team and the team also will be adding two new players from Croatia. “The Balkans are the hub of water polo in the world,” Kasa said.

The team attracts international students with the intention of completing college as well as competing in water polo, something not always offered to them together in their own countries.

National students apply to LBCC as well for the water polo training, many coming from Texas, Kasa said.

Bridget Duncan/Viking BEATING THE HEAT: Nathan Pinkney, right, Viking men’s water polo cutter, and teammate Brian Ruiz train at the LAC pool Monday, Aug. 4. The men’s season starts Sept. 19 and the women begin Sept. 5.

“The quality of their play and their character” are the most important traits, Kasa said. “Defending the state title is important and every year is a new year.”

Kasa assists the team along with coach Chris Oeding, who is coaching abroad with the U.S. women’s national team for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The LBCC men’s team won last year’s state championship and

the women’s team has won three state championships in the last 10 years.

“Getting the team to pull together” is important, Kasa said.

He also emphasized the importance of aerobic ability and said, “You don’t have to be the greatest swimmer,” but you do have to be good.

Pinkney, a cutter, admits to having a few butterflies, but said he is “working hard” with the

Benjamin Diaz/Viking OH CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN: Returning team captain Joel Atilano, a sophomore, handles the ball during practice Thursday, July 31.

Captain working to keep morale high

By Benjamin Diaz Staff Writer

ate Rodrigo Castellanos has been training this Summer and said he appreciates the new challenges playing at the college level with new players.

He said in Spanish through a translator, “Very different because

like, the coach says, I’m fast. So I have to (take a demotion) to right-mid to run back and forMen’s soccer goalkeeper Kifiward, back and forward, cause he kalani Cabrera and team captain needs me.”

Joel Atilano, both sophomores, Team captain Atilano said he return with a stronger team. looks forward to the challenges as With incoming freshman “We’re not going to wait till the a player and “keeping the team who have strong experience as one” and stepping up to the and will keep players fresher is last minute to start winning.” college level and taking more how coach Cameron Beaulac -Joel Atilano shots. He said, “It won’t be like describes the strengths for this Team captain last year. We started pretty year’s season. slow, tying, losing. We’re not “Both our all-conference first- you have to be more competitive, going to wait till the last minute team selections are back along more organized compared to high to start winning.” with our goal-keeper who got school.”

The team’s first game will honorable mention,” Beaulac said.

Arrellano will display his tal- be Friday Aug. 29 at 4 p.m. at Two-time all-league MVP ents playing right-midfield. He Cuyamaca College in El Cajon, and Cabrillo High School gradu- said, “I used to play forward, but, near San Diego.

team to win the state championship again as the team did in Riverside last season.

Pinkney said Golden West is the team’s biggest rival. Their first game is Sept. 19 at the Cuesta Invitational.

Grove, a cutter defender, said he loves playing and is busy working on team building. “Not ejected” is a goal of his for the season he said.

Dia, who has played since she

was 5, said the women’s team is not complete yet which requires more movement on the part of the existing team.

Diaz said as a driver the hardest part is the “mental game” and she is ready to “compete and play hard.” Chaffey and Mt. San Antonio College are the team’s biggest rivals, she said.

Their first game is Sept. 5 at the Cypress Invitational.

By Lisa Hunter Staff Writer

corded her running at a 21-minute pace for the 3-miler, Quezada said.

Second-year competitor Joceline Clemente, a sophomore, said having patella tendinitis due to a high school knee injury made last season challenging, but her teammates’ support helped her get through it. Clemente said, “This year the team is united.”

Andrea Sariah and Alexis Cevallos are freshmen with hopes of competing at this year’s state championships. The two runners share the same goals of reaching a 3-miler time in the low 20s and becoming scholarship recipients.

The team members hold a high regard for their coach, Karen Vigilant-Goodman, who said, “The lessons that I teach my team are unity, hard work and perseverance.”

Sariah said, “I’ve played other sports before and I’ve had other coaches, but she is the only one I could actually tell believes in me.

She believes in each and every one of us.”

The women’s team said it is focused and ready for the season.

They are serious about Vigilant’s workout regimen and are in the process of getting stronger.

The first cross country meet will be at Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea on Friday, Aug 30.

Women’s cross country runners training hard

After ending its season in seventh place among seven teams at the 2013 South Coast Conference championships, the LBCC’s women’s cross country team is preparing to take this season’s training to new levels.

Excitement and determination filled the air as the team completed a loop run from Veterans Stadium through Hartwell Park on Wednesday, July 30. A preseason comradery was demonstrated as the women stayed together in a pack for the entire 40-minute run.

Destinie Hernandez, sophomore, ran a 21:21 as her best time in the 3-miler last season. Her goal for 2014 is to bring her time down to 19:20.

“One thing that I love about the team here is that we encourage each other a lot,” Hernandez said.

Being supportive, developing strong social bonds and progressing together as a team is important to us, she said.

Teammate Alexus Quezada, a freshman, trained with the team last season, but will be competing as a Viking for the first time this year. Quezada had no prior experience as a runner, but is now one of the top racers on the team. Results from a recent time trial re-

GRADUATION

August 7, 2014

15

A fond farewell to the graduates

CELEBRATE: Family and friends celebrate by throwing homemade confetti into the air and cheering in honor of the LBCC graduates.

Story by Brandon Richardson Managing editor Photos by Jacob Rosborough Contributor Blow horns sounded, confetti floated through the air and hun-

dreds of personalized signs were held high as LBCC’s class of 2014 walked across the stage in Veterans Memorial Stadium on Thursday, June 5.

Friends and family flocked to the Stadium by the thousands to show their support for the graduates as President Eloy Oakley conferred more than 1,188 asso-

ciate’s degrees and 598 certificates of achievement.

Students receiving degrees were clad in black robes, while ones receiving certificates wore red.

Both co-validictorians Jalyn Alexander, 19, and Norell Thompson, 31, graduated with 4.0 GPAs and delivered inspiring

speeches to their peers as well as speeches from Oakley and the President of the Academic Senate, Dana Van Sinden.

“Whether you are aware of it or not, faculty and staff have cared about you and your progress along the way,” Van Sinden said during her speech. “Today is a day for you and your families to cele-

brate, but the faculty want you to know that we share pride in your accomplishments because when you succeed, we also feel proud.”

No matter where the 2014 LBCC graduates go next, they will always be Vikings.

The video of the ceremony is available on YouTube and at lbcc. edu.

DRESSED AND IN LINE: Students wait in line before the march begins to their seats and their diplomas Thursday, June 5.

SHOWING OFF: A graduate shows his enthusiasm upon receiving his diploma in Veterans Stadium.

WORDS OF WISDOM: Dana Van Sinden, President of the Academic Senate, speaks to graduates about taking chances in their futures and wishes them luck as they move on from LBCC.

16

CLUBS

AUGUST 7, 2014

Campus groups improve academic life

Photo by Brittany Lieberman/Viking GAMUT OF RECRUITERS: Club representatives recruit student members during the Fall 2013 Join-a-Club Day on the LAC Front Quad. This Fall’s event will be Tuesday, Sept. 9 at the LAC and Wednesday Sept. 10 at the PCC.

LAC clubs

Cultural and Ethnic Clubs Anthropology Student Association Chinese Club Coalition for Latino Advancement Cultural Anthropology French Club Gay-Straight Alliance International Student Club Italian Culture Club Loyal Equal Motivated Open Nexus Medieval Society Club Mexican American Engineers and Scientists’ Mnemosyne Pacific Islander Clubs Honors and Academic Clubs Alpha Gamma Sigma- Kappa Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society Order of Kassai Thane Men’s Social Service Clubs Men of Aztlan The Order of Thor The International Order of Tong International Bakr Alduhaim/Viking CAMPUS CORONATION: Raul Padilla and Elisa Castillo are crowned 2013 Homecoming king and queen during halftime of the Nov. 16 football game at Veterans Stadium. Clubs sponsor the competition’s candidates.

Women’s Social Service Clubs Ladies of Akna Ladies of Athena TNT Venus Religious and Spiritual Clubs Be the Change Catholic Student Club Campus Crusade for Christ Pagan Club SGI Simple Truth

David Stephens/Viking SERENADING RECRUITS: Lindsay Smith, vice president of the SAMM club, serenades passers-by while Christina Macelveny discusses the club’s goals at Join-a-Club Day at LAC last Sept. 12.

Special Interest Clubs Association of Future Firefighters American Criminal Justice Association Anime Club Archeology Club Architecture Student Association Club D’Art Culinary Arts Club Dance Club

EIR English Majors and Minors Club Fashion Network Filmmakers Association Interior Design Club Kappa Epsilon Gamma KCTY Radio Club KLBC Radio Association LBCC Veterans’ Club Leaders Across Campus Nursing Student Association Philosophy Club Political Science Student Association Psychology Club RTV Association Spotlight Theater Club Students for Independent Media Study Abroad SE - Asia - Departmental Association Surf and Snow Student Vocational Nurse Association Transfer Club

PCC clubs Cultural and Ethnic Clubs Cambodian Students Association Pacific Islanders Honors and Academics Alpha Gamma Sigma-Delta Chi Religious and Spiritual Faithful One Ministry Social Service Clubs for Men Aztlan Junior Exchange Special Interests Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Carpentry Child Development Diesel Pacific Coast Cruisers Photo Club Senior Circle Sheet Metal Student Awareness Club STAR (Student and Teachers Achieving Results) Student Vocational Nursing Association The Door Is Open Welding

To join or start a club, students may contact the Office of Student Life in the LAC E102 or (562) 938-4552 or the PCC EE157 or (562) 938-3985.

CALENDAR

August 7, 2014

17

OFF AND RUNNING

IMPORTANTDATES DATES IMPORTANT

Labor Day Monday, Sept. 1 College closed Textbook refund Last day Tuesday, Sept. 2 FOOD COURT HOURS

Summer hours Monday - Thursday 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Building E Fall hours Monday - Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

STUDENT SERVICES

Career and Job Services careers.lbcc.edu Student counseling Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday closed LAC (562) 938-4560 PCC (562) 938-3987 lbcc.edu/counseling Counseling for Financial Aid reinstatment and extensions Available Monday, Sept. 8 First day to book appointments Tuesday, Sept. 2 Scholarship applications lbcc.edu/Scholarship Available Monday, Aug. 25 Deadline to apply Tuesday, Dec. 9 Office LAC A1001 (562) 938-4766 Health services LAC A1010 Monday- Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. noon-2 p.m. Lunch closed LAC (562) 938-4210 PCC Trailer TO PCC (562) 938-3992 LAC Multidisciplinary success center L-212 (562) 938-4699 PCC Multidisciplinary success center EE 206 (562) 938-3991 Career Technical education center (562) 938-3125 Emergency services: 911 or 9911 from campus phones Evening safety escorts call (562) 938-4910 or (562) 435-6711

LIBRARY

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 LAC BOOKSTORE

August 4-15 9 a.m. -5 p.m.

August 8-21 7:30 a.m. -7 p.m.

August 22 8 a.m. -2 p.m.

August 23 9 a.m. -3 p.m.

August 25-28 7:30 a.m. -8:30p.m.

August 29 7:30 a.m. -4 p.m.

August 30 9 a.m. -3 p.m.

VIKING VOYAGER

Free campus to campus shuttle service NO FRIDAY SERVICE From LAC Monday-Thursday runs every 30 minutes 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Estimated trip time to PCC is 30 minutes.

From LAC Runs every hour Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Estimated trip time to PCC is 30 minutes.

From LAC Monday-Thursday 3-6:30 p.m.

Estimated trip time to PCC is 30 minutes.

Lisa Hunter/Viking The Vikings women’s cross country team ends its practice at Veterans Stadium after completing a 40-minute run around Heartwell Park on Wednesday, July 30.

ASB CABINET

STUDENT LIFE

Welcome back week LAC Aug. 28 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

PCC Aug. 27 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join-a-Club Days LAC Sept. 9 PCC Sept. 10

Meetings are Fridays 8 a.m.

ASB President Lokilani Hunt

PCC Cultural Affairs Chair Uriel Artiga-Garfias

ASB Vice President Lauren Christine Ho

Representative of Legislative Affairs Suzanne Perucci

ASB Treasurer Grant Marcel Cook Student Trustee David G. Root

WORKSHOPS

Notary public workshop Saturday, Aug. 9 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

(562) 938-5051

PCC Student Council President Liliana Escatel

Vocal instramental jazz Esembles returning this Fall (5620 938-4826

LAC Club Senate President Tanu Ah You

Free parenting 101 (562) 938-3114

PCC Club Senate President Kenneth Jones

Premier loan signing Agent workshop (562) 938-5051

ASB CABINET

LAC Cultural Affairs Chair Gus Orozco

Representative of Academic Affairs Joanna Martinez Representative of Arts Marlon Martinez Representative of Student Health and Environment Kevin Mehrdady Representative of Communications Daniel Toruno Representative of Volunteer Services Henry Estrada

QUICK RESPONSE

From PCC Monday-Thursday runs every 30 minutes 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Estimated trip time to LAC is 30 minutes.

From PCC Monday-Thursday runs every hour 10:30-2:30 From PCC 10:30 a.m.

Estimated trip time to LAC is 30 minutes.

From PCC Monday-Thursday 3-6:30 p.m. runs every 30 minutes Estimated trip time to LAC is 30 minutes.

Katie Cortez/Viking A student became ill in the LAC M Building on Thursday July 10 and was treated and transported by paramedics. No information about the student was released. If no nurses are available on campus, the paramedics will be called and arrive to help students or employees.

OPINION

18

August 7, 2014

EDITORIAL

Pop-culture books lower student literacy Students should read to succeed.

In recent years, reading outside of school has become something strange among today’s younger generation.

If by some chance students are reading outside of class, it tends to be books like “50 Shades of Grey” or “Twilight” instead of reading something substantial to broaden their critical thinking skills. Being able to articulate your thoughts in speech and on paper is getting less common as the years go by.

According to the Alliance for Excellent Education website, reading proficiency among eighth grade students in California has an average of 29 percent.

It’s almost unimaginable that students are receiving passing grades and moving on to high school when they can barely read.

In fact, the website also states that college readiness among high school graduates has an astounding average of 31 percent in California while the national average is 26%. OK, California is at

Photo Illustration By Brandon Richardson

a slightly higher average than the rest of the country but it’s nothing to be excited about; less than half of the graduates are still not ready for college.

The Cal State system requires The Golden Four courses to be taken before Community College

students can transfer: writing, critical thinking, math and public speaking. With the exception of math, the first step in passing those courses is being able to read and comprehend what you’re reading.

Now, this is not a sugges-

tion to immediately start reading Henry David Thoreau or Geoffrey Chaucer, but it’s a suggestion to start reading something other than smutty teenage romance novels.

Start small. Read the newspaper. Even in today’s technologi-

cally advanced society, the print newspaper is read by millions of people every day; so why not add to that positive statistic?

In terms of writing, LBCC offers courses you can take to help you learn how to properly articulate your thoughts on paper.

The Reading and Writing Success Centers on the PCC and the LAC are also valuable resources you can use to help you with your classes.

Reading makes you a better writer. Reading something of substance makes you think more critically, which in turn helps encourage you to speak in a more professional manner.

For more information, visit the Alliance for Education website at all4ed.org. The Reading and Writing Success Centers are located in EE206 on the PCC and in E09L on the LAC. During Fall semester they are open Monday-Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both campuses.

OPINION

That’s so not ‘gay’: Your casual insult offends your mother Masculinity is not the only form of strength.

By Samwell Favela Contributing Writer I’m not one to tell you how to talk, or to tell someone how to live, but I am one to call you out on your bull.

That includes the ignorant things you say.

You’ve probably heard it plenty of times by now, “Don’t say ‘gay’ in a derogatory way, it’s wrong to use.”

Many people get it, it’s wrong

to use it when you’re using the Is there something wrong For those of you that have had word to describe something bad, with being feminine in the first a chance to have a mom, grandbut not many people understand place? Do you think men can’t be ma, older sister, or what have you, why it’s such an insult. That is an feminine because they need to be just realize how much effort and insult not only to gay people, but strong? Do you think only men strength they had to put in just to to women. Did I lose you? Al- can be strong and someone who get you where you are today. From right, let me explain. is feminine, like most women, changing your diapers to buying You see, the main you new clothes to reason why “And don’t lie girls, some of your best friends impress, most likely, people (and are gay. Back us up, don’t keep us down.” a girl who is femiby people, I nine that you are so mean mostly straight can’t be strong? sprung over. males) started using the See, that’s the messed up part.

Oh, and if you’re a girl saying word, it’s because they When using “gay” in a derogato- it, you’re basically putting yourwere describing an ac- ry way, you’re stepping on both a self down. In the words of Betion that was feminine. sexual orientation and a gender as yonce, “Baby girl you can’t survive Which I’m not go- a whole group. like this.” ing to lie, most gay men And it’s funny because the Girls who step on their own hold that quality. But when you gender you’re stepping on has think about it, what’s so wrong probably been the strongest perwith a man being feminine? son in your life.

Viking Staff

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

lbccviking.com instagram/vikingnews Twitter.com/lbccvikingnews Facebook.com/vikingnews vikingnews@lbcc.edu

To run or hide when shots are fired PCC shooting offers first real-world test of text-alert system.

On June 19 around 5:30 p.m., there was an officer-involved shooting on the PCC. I was working in the bungalows next to the MM Building, which is where the incident took place.

A student ran into the office and alerted us immediately after it had occurred. My co-workers and I were unsure of what measures were in place and where to go from there. We did not know what kind of shooting it was, so we decided to wait for the police to let us out of the building.

After we noticed nothing was

happening, we called the administrative office around 5:48 p.m. and were told we could leave the building. I asked some students in the area if they knew what was going on and many said what they had heard about the shooting, but nothing official from the school.

I understand that there are measures in place to handle such a situation, but several of my co-workers say they didn’t receive the text soon enough. By the time they were alerted they said they were already off the campus. Just because students have not signed up or do not know about the text alert system should not lead to a compromise in their safety.

I asked myself a hypothetical question, “What if the gunman had not been stopped in the MM Building and continued into the

gender and a lifestyle just makes it okay for guys to do it. And don’t lie girls, some of your best friends are gay. Back us up, don’t keep us down.

Again, I’m not one to force you to do anything you don’t want to do. But the next time you decide to use “gay” in a derogatory way, know how many close people you are offending intentionally now because you’ve read this article.

You’re not ignorant now. You would just be a punk ...don’t be a punk. Just expand your vocabulary. You can do it.

offices?” This shows the breakdown in school protocol and how the school should take more initiative to alert students and staff sooner than they did.

This can be a learning experience for the school but all I have witnessed so far is their campaign to have us sign up for the text alert system. Yes fellow students and faculty, lets sign up for a system that alerts you after the situation is over. It would be like tripping on a rabbit hole and the school later telling you “watch out for the hole.” I don’t need a propaganda campaign I need to see a change in our alert system which works in real time.

Kevin Guadamuz, 24 History Major

Editor in chief: Katie Cortez Managing editor: Brandon Richardson Staff: Benjamin Diaz Bridget Duncan Lisa Hunter

Arnold James Becca Urrutia

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 email. Only names will be published with the letter.

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

The Viking will be published Sept. 4 and 18, Oct. 2, 16 and 30, Nov. 13 and 26 and Dec. 11. The Viking is published by Journalism 80 and 85 students of the LBCC 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, Mail Code Y-16, Telephone (562) 938-4285 or contact us by email to vikingnews@lbcc.edu.

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OPINION

August 7, 2014

19

COMMENTARIES

President offers advice

BY Eloy Oakley LBCC president

I know that many of you work or have families to take care of while you attend LBCC. But I Welcome to the Fall semester encourage you to take as many at LBCC. Many of you are here classes as you can while you are with the goal to continue your ed- here. Being a full-time student ucation by transferring to a uni- will enable you to finish your deversity, completing a certificate or gree faster and in the end, it will associate’s degree. save you money.

I’ve been at LBCC for more See a counselor than a decade and I’ve seen many No matter if this is your first students pass through these hall- semester or if you’re a returnways. I was delighted to see so ing student, you probably have many students lining questions. “What are up to register for Fall the requirements for semester a few weeks my degree?” “What ago. The line was out kind of classes should I the door with students take?” “Will Cal State and family members Long Beach accept this asking questions about class when I transfer?” how to sign up, who “What classes should I they should speak with take if I want to go to and where they can find UCLA?” Our LBCC Eloy Oakley help. staff are the best and Here are a few tips from me to it’s their job to help you succeed. you on how you can be successful They are here to help you, so take on achieving your goal to moving advantage of this incredible reto the next chapter of your higher source. education career.

Join the Viking community Take English and math early We have a wealth of campus Don’t put off your English and groups, facilities, programs and math requirements. Complete support services here for you. them as soon as possible. The Get to know your fellow stutwo requirements are an excellent dents to share resources. Join a foundation for all of your future study group to keep you on top classes. You can then focus on of your studies. Ask questions of completing your degree. the teachers and staff because you Attend full or part-time never know what you may learn.

Consider the transfer degree This is one of the newest tools in our toolbox to help you succeed. The associate degree for transfer is a special degree offered at LBCC. Students who earn an associate in arts for transfer or an associate in science for transfer degree are guaranteed admission to the CSU. With the special degree, you may be given a GPA bump when applying to an impacted campus outside Long Beach or an impacted major that is deemed similar.

In addition, once at the CSU, if you are admitted and enrolled in a designated similar degree program, you have the opportunity to complete your bachelor’s degree with as little as 60 semester units.

Please meet with a counselor to find out more information.

Read the Viking newspaper In addition to the excellent writing, the paper covers many important events and issues that will help you succeed.

Thank you for choosing LBCC. I truly believe we are one of the best Community Colleges in the nation.

Best of luck to you in the upcoming school year and I look forward to seeing you on campus.

Infograph By Bridget Duncan and Lisa Hunter/Viking

ASB representatives recommend resources

By Lokilani Hunt ASB president and Lauren Ho ASB vice president

Throughout the year, students ask us how they, too, can get involved. Well, the simplest way to contribute is to vote in general elections. The annual polls serve Welcome, new and returning multiple purposes for students, Vikings! We congratulate you all including opportunities to volunfor your continued pride in this teer and make informative decicollege, in this community and sions. in yourselves. As students ourFurthermore, this is the best selves, we always have inquiries way to get to know people who that come up during the semester serve in your best interest and that baffle, most importantly to sway the isconfuse and sues that ultimately affect you. excite us.

The upcoming elections this I urge Fall will include voting for your you to seek ASB secretary, making amendLBCC rements to the ASB Constitution sources, and passing a “$2 & you” initiamake LBCC. tive for student activities. If you edu your are compelled, we encourage all homepage students to apply for a position in and read the Lokilani Hunt student government, whether you paper reguthink you are eligible. larly. Attending an ASB Cabinet One issue that has overmeeting throughout the semes- whelmed many students the past ter, scheduled at our new time semesters is the aesthetic growth every Friday at 8 a.m., alternat- of this campus, the construction. ing between It’s no secret the LAC and “We encourage all students to that addithe PCC, can apply for a position in student tions being be the most to the government, whether you think made i n for m at i v e LAC and resource for you are eligible.” the PCC are student advodisrupting cating. The Associated Student many traffic routes and parking Body leaders were elected and arrangements for students. appointed by you, the students.

Please have patience with the Come, voice your student-related inconvenience a little while lonissues and concerns. Your opin- ger, Vikings. As a reminder, conion matters. struction is In a large two-campus colunderway lege like this, many resourcat the PCC es enable student success. The blocking off a health services department offers large section safe-lifestyle items, department in-b etween centers offer tutors in all subjects the Student and many students have been Center and surprised to find private study the bungaLauren Ho rooms in the Library where you lows.

Plan can study comfortably with classahead. The mates or by yourself in a quiet and best way to navigate through the equipped environment. traffic in the structure and parkIf at any time you are lost or ing lots is to leave a few minutes find yourself walking aimlessly early to avoid being late to class. past the Food Court, the College In understanding your frustraCenter at the LAC and Student tions, the Long Beach Transit and Center at the PCC houses the the inter-campus shuttle will conmost informative and friendly tinue their regular services in the individuals, your ASB officers in- Fall. cluded. The area is also the homeWe look forward to a producbase for the most active student tive year. In seeking your LBCC organizations on the LAC, in resources, find purpose in your what we call The Fishbowl. community and in your future.

Pathway to achieving degrees requires focus and self-interest

By Lisa Hunter Staff writer Of every 100 students who began their education at LBCC in 2010, only 8.5 of them actually graduated, according to collegecompletion.chronicle.com.

After reading this, I realized that the characteristic that students who graduated possessed in comparison to those who didn’t was pure selfishness. College graduates are selfish people.

Lisa Hunter Everyone who wishes to graduate from LBCC must develop a selfish nature.

Having a self-seeking attitude is a necessary quality when attempting to achieve academic success.

Putting our education first involves learning how to say no to family members and telling employers we can’t work an extra shift. We need to put relationships and friendships on hold for a while and leave those little ones at the daycare center for a few extra hours.

To be a self-interested student, we can’t let obstacles or distractions get in the way of our destination.

I experienced the loss of my mother last semester, but what I know now is obtaining a degree means staying focused and not giving up. I learned this the hard way.

I remember hearing a voice in the free speech area of a state university I previously attended. “Hey baby, can I talk to you for

a moment?” I ignored that voice and continued to tend to my studies, but after dozens of roses and other romantic gestures, I married the man behind that voice.

I figured I could still get my bachelor of arts degree, but changing diapers, cooking, cleaning and working part-time soon proved to be difficult.

I think students get too distracted by nonessential elements of everyday living and lose focus of their endeavors. Nothing should be more important than the sacrifice and dedication necessary to obtain a college degree.

On YouTube, Eric Thomas, a motivational speaker, told a story about a guru who demonstrated his secret to success by pushing a man’s head down in the ocean and letting him up only at the brink of survival. Thomas said, “When you want

success as bad as you want to breath, then you’ll be successful.”

I believe that the pursuit of getting a degree should be as important as breathing itself. Education is the lifeline to a success.

Everyone’s educational path is different and the road to receiving a diploma from college is a life lesson all in itself.

It’s not where we start, but where we end and what is accomplished along the way.

Thinking of our own best interest and putting our educational aspirations above all things is a must.

Turning off our cellphones and ignoring those notifications from Facebook and Instagram while we study is something we have to do.

As future graduates of LBCC, being selfish should be our first priority.

IMAGES

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August 7, 2014

READY FOR THE SHOW: A crowd of around 175 people gathered in the Front Quad near the A Building on Monday, July 21.

Civil War Battalion plays in Quad Story by Bridget Duncan Staff Writer And Brandon Richardson Managing Editor Photos By Brandon Richardson Managing Editor Around 175 people picnicked on the Front Quad at LBCC on Monday night, July 21, for a free Sounds of Summer concert now in its 23rd year.

Beginning the concert at the LAC was a barbershop quartet singing a rendition of “Good Old Summer Time.”

Nate Reed, 25, a music major and a A unique clapping piece with a wind member of the quartet said, “We’ve only ensemble by Donald Grantham titled rehearsed the song about two weeks. But, “Southern Harmony” was performed along we have a lot more that we want to learn. with Western, movie, Broadway and carAnd, if you go to any more concerts here at toon selections. school, you’ll see a lot more of us.”

Danielle Covarrubias, 20, a nursing maThe next act to follow was played “It’s really nice to hang out with a jor, The Beach City Symphonic alto sax for Band directed by teacher Brian bunch of other musicians and do the symphoHamilton of the music depart- what we love.” ny and said ment. After a two-year break she was im-Danielle Covarrubias pressed how from performing the concerts Alto sax player at LBCC, Hamilton said, “This dedicated all is something we are glad to be doing again.” the musicians were. “It’s really nice to hang Hamilton said the symphonic band is out with a bunch of other musicians and do comprised of LBCC students, community what we love.” musicians and musicians from other colFinishing the concert was The Band of leges. the California Battalion directed by the for-

mer director of bands and dean at LBCC, Gary Scott.

Just back from Virginia where the band performed at many Civil War sites, Vykee Gordon, a 15-year singer, drummer and pianist for the band, sang “Swing Low Sweet Chariot.” She said the band was originally inspired by German tourist friends of her and her husband, who is also in the band who liked American 1860s music.

After the band continued through an array of pieces, including “Goober Peas” “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “Firemen’s Polka” Scott said the band was a way to celebrate the Civil War “through the humility of musicians and a way to experience the struggle through what musicians offered to make the situation better.”

TOOT YOUR HORN: The Beach City Symphonic Band’s horn section blows away the audience.

THE DRUM BEATS ON: Vivandierre Vykee Gordon plays the bass drum and Quartermaster Richard Snyder plays the snare drum.

TAKE A BOW: Gary Scott bows to Vykee Gordon after she sang "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" accompanied by the battalion.