Drawn to Dance by Union Weekly

Drawn to Dance

MFA production brings alumni back to the Martha B. Knoebel Theater October 13 Volume 75.8 lbunion.com

Intro

“Young Thug can say literally anything (and might be saying literally anything) and it sounds like an alien preaching the gospel.” Kyle Kramer, editor at Noisey.com

Issue 75.8 Molly Shannon, Editor-in-Chief editorinchief@lbunion.com Alfred Pallarca, Managing Editor alfredp.union@gmail.com Connor O’Brien, Art Director connor.union@gmail.com Trevor Desrosiers, Advertisting Executive advertising@lbunion.com Eduardo Vargas, Distribution Manager distribution@lbunion.com

ART & DESIGN Rose Feduk, Illustration Editor rosef.union@gmail.com Abdallah Seoud, Assistant Art Director abdallah.seoud@gmail.com Michael Tewasart, Assistant Art Director tewasartm@live.com

By Molly Shannon Picture me saying this in an old Granny voice as made popular by Renee Schmiedeberg: Hello children! Gather round! I’m going to tell you a little story about Dance major, Melissa Martinez! Once upon a time, in the land of Parkside dorms at CSULB, Melissa and I were

Truc Nguyen, Web Manager web@lbunion.com

EDITORIAL Heather Sandburg, Opinions Editor opinions@lbunion.com Veronica Craft, Community Editor community@lbunion.com Jacky Linares, Athletics Editor Elizabeth Nguyen, Athletics Editor athletics@lbunion.com Renee Schmiedeberg, Arts Editor arts@lbunion.com

the campus similar to that of a squirrel, but by senior year we were both strong, independent mo’-fo’s. We shared many great times together, such as decorating Toms shoes, supporting our friend Malik at his drag performances, and producing a video entry for Campus Movie Fest. We also overcame times when we struggled and barely made it out alive, like when we were like there would be no tomorrow, or when we became confused by the bus system and had to walk back to our dorm from 2nd street in the

Illustration by Rose Feduk cold night wind. to get used to sharing our personal spaces with one another, and dorming was hella expensive. But do we regret making this decision? Heavens, no! If we had never been roomies, then it is almost 100 percent likely that we would have never met. She’s majoring

later; she’s a key player within the Dance Department, and I’m a key player at the Union. It’s interesting the way things turn out. utmost importance to get to know other people on campus, even those who we seemingly have little in common with. Just by working at this publication for years, I’ve had the opportunity to try things I’d never expected to do in a million years. I tried out Scientology for a day,

went to a strip club, participated in Quidditch, competed in food eating contests, participated in a paranormal investigation, interviewed well-known drag queens; the list of oddities goes on and on. That’s why I’m really glad to be a part of such a diverse campus like CSULB (and I say that with no sarcasm whatsoever). I mean, simply by reading this paper you’re exposing on campus. By embracing campus life, you’re cool. Perhaps after reading our feature on the Dance department, you’ll even be inspired and check out the show! Be sure to ask Melissa about “Kat.” Sashay away, Molls

Katie Cortez, Entertainment Editor entertainment@lbunion.com Sam Winchester, Music Editor music@lbunion.com Camille Hove, Lifestyle Editor lifestyle@lbunion.com Chrissy Bastian, Literature Editor literature@lbunion.com Alfred Pallarca, Travel Editor alfredp.union@gmail.com Beatriz Villa, Food Editor food@lbunion.com Gumby, Grunion Editor grunion@lbunion.com Michael Wood, Senior Editor mwood.union@gmail.com COPY & ASSISTANT EDITORS Jonathan Gutierrez, Joel Martinez ADVERTISING SALES INTERN Jacqueline Simon STAFFERS & CONTRIBUTORS Oscar Bautista, Antonio Lavermón, Marco Beltran, Julissa Salas, Amanda DominguezChio, Megan Crayne Beall, Matt McNeese, Julie Ames, Monica Nguyen, Joel Martinez, Cole Hughey, Gregory Crosby CONTACT US Long Beach, CA 90815 E-mail: info@lbunion.com

Disclaimer and Publication Information: The Union Weekly is published using ad money and partial funding provided by the Associated Students, Inc. All Editorials are the opinions of their individual authors, not the Union Weekly, ASI nor CSULB. All students are welcome and encouraged to be a part of the Union Weekly staff. All letters to the editor will be considered for publication. However, CSULB students will have precedence. Please include name and major for all submissions. They are subject to editing and will not be returned. Letters may or may not be edited for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and length. The Union Weekly will publish anonymous letters, articles, editorials, and illustration, but must have your name and information attached for our records. Letters to the editor should be no longer than 500 words. The Union Weekly assumes no responsibility, nor is it liable, for claims of its advertisers. Grievance procedures are available

Opinions

Enough with the debt already! Student debt; the mere phrase usually elicits sighs of resignation, anxiety, and more than a few nervous laughs from students on any university campus in this country. For us at Long Beach we too have to worry about such unfortunate circumstances. After all, we were blessed with Time Magazine listing us as one of the best value universities in the nation. Unfortunately, this is simply not the case. education in the CSU system has been under assault, and our education at CSULB is no exception. A year, which used to cost approximately 2,300 dollars, is now listed at the price of 5,472 dollars. In the span of 10 years, the price of our tuition has nearly doubled, and this was not without protest.

students were pepper sprayed and arrested in protests outside the Board of Trustees, registering the deep anger and discontent with rising tuition prices. But of course, when many of us are paying for our education with loans, and most of us have not had true careers yet, we don’t have a very clear idea of how much our tuition is. To illustrate this, we can look at the minimum wage and compare it to the tuition by the semester. In 2004, with tuition at 2,334 dollars and a minimum wage of 6.75, it would take 346 hours of labor at that wage to earn a semester’s tuition. Assuming you work 20 hours a week every week (against the wishes

By Michael Wood

Graphic by Abdallah Seoud

of the university, of course, which only recommends you work 10 hours a week while

time period. Tuition and fees on this campus have increased by nearly 135 percent since

for your entire education while in school. The former dream of working your way through

the desperately needed expansion of the CSU system which grants the lion’s share of

if you stayed at home and kept your cost of living low. However, today the numbers tell a

experiencing a shortage of educated workers

base annual tuition, 5,472 dollars at CSULB this year, and combine that with a nine dollar minimum wage, you come up with 608 hours of work just to pay for a year’s tuition. If you follow the university’s recommendation to only work 10 hours a week while being a full time student, this is an absolutely impossible task; there simply isn’t enough time in the year to pay your own way through school. Despite the insistence of stubbornly out of touch family members, paying your way through school and still managing to be a good student is nearly impossible. era which is unlike anything we’ve seen since the advent of the public university system in this state. A system that was designed with quality education to people of all classes, rich and poor, has quickly become much more like the private universities that they were originally designed in opposition of. In the past 10 years, tuition on this campus has risen over 100 percent, an astonishing rise that is forcing the poorer members of our society to reconsider whether college is within their themselves in tens of thousands of dollars of debt, in order to simply make themselves competitive in the job market. This is by no means a sustainable system. Today, enrollment in the CSU system as a whole has increased by nearly 24 percent since 1999, yet state funding to the CSU system has only increased four percent in that

Illustration by Jay Jenkins

nearly one million people with bachelors degrees by 2025, this is insanity. Meanwhile, the federal government

business, ensuring that they could turn an obligation, like providing their citizens with

sending an additional piece of our paycheck back to Uncle Sam after we’ve gotten that long awaited degree. It’s time to say enough is enough. There isn’t a single reason why the state government should choose students to persevere through, and there is absolutely no reason that the federal government should I will keep my school spirit, however, when I say “Go Leech!” Because at a beautiful place like Long Beach State, where earnest educators and motivated students gather, cowardly politician (who refuses to raise taxes on the wealthiest), every bureaucrat we sink under the weight of debt), and every loan shark (desperate to capture a piece of your paycheck or destroy your life, should they fail at that) congregates themselves at this university. So, why not admit it? Let this be our legacy; let us shout loud enough for the proud cry of “Go Leech!”

Opinions

How the Tables Have Turned

By Michelangelo Landgrave

Ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t no such thing as a free seat in life

Illustration by Claire DeWilde During lunch hours, it is nearly impossible

minimize operation costs, an honor system

Shuttle Bugginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

By Azere Wilson

Please be courteous to your fellow bus buddies she

situation

me she common courtesy?

Community

Take Back the Night

By Julissa Salas

Bringing sexual assault awareness to college campuses There are few opportunities to stand together in impactful solidarity with nearly

population of us, these years can mean On Us,â&#x20AC;? which, in accordance with the most recent added legislation passed by

strides in awareness, and the passing of During the Speak Out portion of battle and we cannot afford to rest on our are not alone, and this is a great way to not only come to realize this, but also a great way

assault, this is that opportunity; it is time to A line up of some of Southern

Of course, Take Back The Night is open half an hour before we march across campus to share their stories, not only in an attempt to heal, but also to help spread awareness and to The aforementioned statistics are widely considered inaccurate because

a mattress with us in solidarity of the Columbia student, Emma Sulkowicz, who was raped on campus by a fellow student senior art project, Sulkowicz carried a

prompted President Obama to spark the

that social change is, and always has been, we can change the world, make it a little bit

supposed to be our brightest and most

Athletics

We’ll Never Be Royals

Rotten Meat

The current good, bad, and “blue” in baseball By Katie Cortez It has been an exciting year for baseball. After 20 years of playing for the New York Yankees, Derek Jeter retired with a career total of 11,195 at bats, 260 home runs, and 1,311 runs batted in. The Los Angeles “no one knows where Anaheim is, so we’re going to say it’s in LA” Angels of Anaheim completely

California teams made it through to the postseason. Postseason performance aside, Clayton Kershaw of the Los Angeles Dodgers is ranked the number one pitcher in the MLB

SENIOR: Camille Hove

during the regular season. This postseason, we’re

18. She borrowed a friend’s board and watching moment when she surfs is when she feels

spot since 1985, and the Baltimore Orioles, St. Louis Cardinals beat the LA Dodgers in Game Four last Tuesday

has to paddle like hell to catch it. When

against either the San Francisco Giants or the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. Both are major league power-houses—the Giants

teams each: East, West, and Central. This means that from April to September, 30 teams play 162 games to compete for a chance to make it to postseason.

at the steep plummet to the bottom of

Series titles under their belts. For those who don’t really understand what it means to get to the World Series, I’ll break it down for you. The MLB is put into two leagues: the American League and the National League. Each league is broken up

automatically goes through to the next round, but before that starts, Wild Card winners must be determined. Wild Card standings are based on the teams with the best winning percentages in their league,

around. She says it’s an incredible feeling. to the Championship Series. The teams in the and their outcomes determine who wins the American League and National League Pennants and which two teams of opposite winner of the highly anticipated World Series

sticking out front.” It takes a lot of skill

two Wild Card games, one for each league, John John Florence, because he’s “always This year, the Dodgers, the Washington Nationals, and the Cardinals were the three Camille likes to try and imitate his tricks. Giants beating out the Pittsburgh Pirates for the Wild Card spot. The American the Detroit Tigers, and the Angels with the Royal’s winning the Wild Card against took place last week and fans watched the Nationals, Dodgers, Tigers, and Angels say goodbye to their postseason dreams. Friday, October 10 marked the beginning of the Championship Series, and fans are eagerly

As for me, my money is on the Royal’s to look forward to watching the Cardinals or Kansas City Royals’ Venezuelan Shortstop, Alicides Escobar, in action (left)

Arts

Animating Momentum By Amanda Dominguez-Chio Jason and the Argonauts King Kong). is a technique that makes a physically manipulated object appear to move on its

and investors want to be allowed to see the

process allows the audience to appreciate the medium: it can convey an idea or theme Vincent

motion animation has been an art since the early 20th century and continues to charm Doctor Puppet animation never ceases to amaze me.

Hemey the Elf exchanges a jolly hello with Rudolph from the Christmas Special, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (top); the eleventh Doctor gallivants on a beach in the popular animated YouTube series (middle); Doctor Puppet a close up of Kong from King Kong shows the monster animated scene (left)

Director Wes Anderson scrutinizes a model of the protagonist from Fantastic Mr. Fox

FEATURE

Drawn to Dance MFA production brings alumni back to the Martha B. Knoebel Theater

Words by Alfred Pallarca Images by Gregory Crosby Illustrations by Rose Feduk

In a typical stroll down the hall of the Dance Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

FEATURE

Normally, Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) students in the Dance Program choreograph

there is certainly pressure to put on a good

as only one MFA student, Kathleen Helm, is left in the program to complete her thesis. With that predicament in mind, the department

alumni by selecting among juried applications Lorin Johnson, Concert Director. “These

talent for the performance, it is important With the alumni coming back to help choreograph the performance, Kathleen admitted that the dynamic is a

the production is a great opportunity for their

that this fact essentially makes the concert

said Paige Lapp, a second year Dance major.

“Usually the MFA students are pretty close

collecting into a rushing stream, Flood bodies propel through space and collect

come useful for her one day.

alumni choreographers, but it has been Though choreographers generally come The

choreographers

and

production each dancer contributes a great deal to the

the potential audience could understand choreography combines strong minimalist

then as the dance progresses sometimes that

home Closing the concert is Kathleen’s much each act comprising of three different pieces. Opening the concert is a piece titled Wade, or defeat in society’s culture of competition.

but also abstract at times, because it is open that embodies dynamic elements of risk and

music plays an important role in each dance

“So music plays a huge part for the starting she stumbled upon a country pop song from choreographed by Delyer Anderson, and Flood, choreographed by

incorporate each dancer’s input to the piece to create a more dynamic performance. She

FEATURE

said that because the dancers are able to personalize their acts, they are able to better perform. “Being able to put your ideas and share them with the choreographer is great,” said Melissa Martinez, a fourth -year Dance Major. “You get something more beautiful from it.” Melissa, who will be performing in Flood, said she feels choreographers are not always looking for dancers to repeat verbatim what they have been given. “They also want to see what you can bring to the table,” she said.

the choreographer, it is essential to assure each dancer is on the same page. She said the relationship, the compatability, and the communication between dancers and the choreographer are probably more important than the actual choreography. “Especially when there is partnering involved, we really have to talk about it,” said Paige. “We have to practice and make sure we have the same idea of what the choreography is and what our intentions are.”

Paige, who will be performing for Kathleen’s Romp Show, said during the audition Kathleen videotaped each dancer’s improvisation performance. Essentially, Kathleen showed

The usage of emotion is another important factor to several, but not specifically to all dance pieces. Every choreographer has a varying style of production. While some choreographers ask the dancers to purely focus on the movement, other choreographers feel having a tangible human emotion is an important component. Kathleen said she wants the dancer to evoke a specific kind of emotion to help demonstrate the message she is trying to convey in Romp Show. “I want each dancer to be three dimensional and dynamic,” said Kathleen. “So I don’t want them to be flat characters that are only one emotion. I want them to be able to change through the dance.” According to Paige because Kathleen’s guidance on utilizing emotions for the show, she is able to do her job more desirably “She kind of steers us towards a certain emotions that she wants us to have,” said Paige. “She wants us to figure it out ourselves. We sat down and wrote down what we are feeling about the entire dance, then read them out loud. It has to be personal. It has to make sense to you when you are doing it.”

movement they have done that Kathleen thought would be great to incorporate in the show. “In a way some of it is choreographed by us unintentionally,” said Paige. “We did the movement or produced it, but she picked it.” Paige further explained that not only is it essential to develop a great relationship with

Certainly, the physical demand of each movement can be daunting after practicing for a copious amount of hours for four months. Injuries of varying severities challenge the dancers and choreographers. Melissa said that injuries are unfortunately an unavoidable part of any dance performance out there

and is unavoidable. With injuries, dancers sometimes have to pull through and fake it on stage. Another challenge they typically face is maintaining their energy throughout the whole rehearsal or a performance. “It’s very physically demanding,” said Paige. “I do get lifted a lot, and it’s very physically demanding. There are times when I am like I don’t know if I can do it again. And I just always have to make myself do it one more time because after this you can rest.” For dancers, assuring they are doing their choreographers justice is another vital thought in their head. “We are not just doing any kind of dance,” said Melissa. “We are not just moving in the space like you would in a technique class. You are trying to put somebody else’s thoughts and ideas into you.” Melissa said this is when having a great relationship with your choreographer comes into play. “Asking questions will help you to better present what they want to tell the audience and what they want to show their audience,” said Melissa. With the production nearing premiere day, everyone involved in the concert is on top of their game, perfecting and polishing even the smallest details of the performance. They have been rehearsing every day for at least three hours, until the days of the show. At this point, Kathleen said she is ensuring each dancer is making each important mark in the dance. “I am looking more in-depth at their intention and focus for their characters,” said Kathleen. With seemingly endless practices, Melissa said that there is always something learn. “Dancers are never perfect,” said Melissa. “We’ve been rehearsing trying to perfect it all the time.” However, seeing as this is Melissa’s sixth production in the department, she said that she feels she is already mentally prepared for what is to come. “Even during shows you could be learning,” said Melissa. “You can always take that extra step.” Paige is hoping for people to truly appreciate and enjoy the show. Although some concepts and ideas might not be easily understandable for everybody, she feels that merely seeing a dance show opens up people’s mind into a whole new world. “Dancing is a type of art that is very unique in a way that makes you feel things that you couldn’t otherwise,” said Paige. “It is really exhilarating and opening. You become in touch with your emotions really well; you can make people feel something through your art. It’s pretty rewarding.”

MARTHA B. KNOEBEL DANCE THEATER October 16 and 17 - 8 pm October 18 - 2 pm & 8 pm General Admission: 20 dollars Student Admission: 16 dollars

Music

Don’t Stop the Music By Antonio Lavermón that she has embraced herself completely as an individual, overcoming regrets and remaining true to herself. In a similar

Graphic by Abdallah Seoud

By Sam Winchester released their latest studio album, Turn Blue, last May. It is an eleven-song record that contains the unique garage/blues/psychedelic

the sense that she, too, has her insecurities.

American duo.

genre as “Cease Fire” is basically a note of “power” to with whom Aguilera is supposed to have some sort of close relationship, but there is quarrel involved that she hopes to detain. This song ends and shortly begins

to capture a mysterious, psychedelic air. The song is mostly instrumental with a very catchy rhythm when the lyrics come up. It

the minds of those wishing to meet and travel

the main essence that the record desires to convey overall.

Abruptly, the album’s theme reverts

air to the following song, “Time.” This

unapologetic fashion with “Circles.” The song is a lyrical interpretation of giving

the lyrics, as well as a faster pace in all the instruments, achieving a more dance-able beat to head-bang to.

psychedelic atmosphere to the album. Two years ago this month, Christina Aguilera released what would become one of the most popular dance songs and smash hits in the world, “Your Body.” This song has an electro-pop dance beat which combines Aguilera’s powerful voice and her femininity.

her or have brought her down. “Best of Me” is a message that declares Aguilera’s commitment to staying strong. A new theme is now presented on the

trippy essence of Turn Blue. song has an overly characteristic modern and another favorite of mine, with very Something that I noticed was that the whole

upcoming album, Lotus. “Lotus Intro,” which is a captivating, soft

euphoric country style of music, Aguilera sings about love and its securities and

Dan Auerbach’s higher-pitched voice. were listening to a really long song. This brings me to the greatly acclaimed

the message of the overall album: Aguilera of Me,” highlights the introduction by

that encourages one to overcome pain, hurt, sorrow, and despair. Slowly returning to a complimentary theme on the album, “Empty

the tune of the song and sing along, not to

to quarrel, as there is a realization that the

“Year In Review” follows immediately and

haunting, up until the end where the guitar

and a powerful bass. “Red Hot Kinda Love” Aguilera’s sensual vocals merge with disco themed instruments. Interestingly enough,

Move,” in which Aguilera and Cee Lo Green attempt to promote tolerance and equality amongst all people by stating that it all “starts with me and you.” Following this song is “Your Body” and its electro-pop dance successor, “Let There Be Love.” This song is the album’s sole double-entendre that theme of acceptance. Then, the album begins to simmer down with a bit with soft strings in its ballad, “Sing For Me,” in which Aguilera details

pop song that dictates Aguilera’s carelessness for haters and insidious interlopers. Lotus has a range of themes which, in turn,

that it is a barely noticeable transition in between both songs. I found the transition particularly delightful since both, despite right after the other.

as well which contribute to the uniqueness. As one listens to this album, Aguilera’s vulnerabilities, insecurities, strengths, and desires are demonstrated. I highly recommend this album, as one can search for a deeper meaning behind the lotus and find out why Christina Aguilera is one.

favorite of mine, “Bullet in the Brain.” This song transitions from blues to more garage/

follows “It’s Up to You Now,” with its very “beautiful,” but because she still stands even after all she has been through.

once again. Lastly, “Gotta Get Away” is perhaps the

style than psychedelic blues; however it still

audience to feel slightly dizzy from the optic illusion of a never-ending spiral with I am honestly obsessed with this album

Entertainment

Speedy New Spin-off Has Potential Why CW’s The Flash is worth watching Words by Marco Beltran Illustration by Rose Feduk I was a little worried about how a Flash TV show would pan out. As with anything part of the superhero genre in movies or television, there are only two ways for it to go: “meh” or “watchable.” Occasionally it’s good, rarely great, but everything else falls into the aforementioned categories. There’s just a

or movie to ground it in a plausible reality while creating believable motivations to become a hero. It’s the details that make a story compelling, and in the case of The Flash, I would have yelled at the TV if it was “an

average guy that runs really fast.” My worries were only compounded when the show opened with a red and yellow blur traversing the city, breaking windows and the sound barrier. We’re introduced to Barry Allen, played by Grant Gustin, who is this often tardy, super genius CSI guy who has devoted his life to tracking down murders and crimes of mysterious origins in order to gain a better understanding of his mother’s mysterious murder and exonerate his father. Allen gains the ability to move at super speed after he’s struck by lightning during a mysterious particle accelerator meltdown. It’s a lot

out of the model altogether. The Flash has superhuman abilities and is probably a little more recognizable than the Green Arrow, so you’d think they would have used Arrow as a learning model and take more risks to create a better show. As it is now, there’s nothing special to it. It’s like you could just replace the Flash for any hero’s origin and you’d still have the same show. Despite all of the potential problems I’m being of the pilot, I’m optimistic for the little tidbits The Flash has set up for potential villains later along the line. Basically the whole meltdown that created the Flash, so the Flash

the show. Granted, they are trying to give viewers a reason to care about the character and pay some fan service to the origins of the character in the comics, but it creates a convoluted origin story if this is your introduction to the character or you aren’t aware of it’s connection to it’s cousin series, Arrow. Yet, having that connection to Arrow is sort of a guarantee of the series’ longevity as The Flash Arrow. The world the Flash lives in is an extension of the one already established in Arrow. That means villains, heroes, side characters, and secret organizations could all possibly become part of either show’s narrative. If the plot of this episode is indicative of how stories on the show will progress, The Flash might even share the same story structure as Arrow wherein each episode introduces a new villain from the rogues gallery with a portion of each episode used toward progressing intercharacter relationships or building toward a big end of the season showdown with that season’s main villain. It’s an easy story model to follow that’s been proven to work on other shows that I don’t think will work if there are two shows on the same network catering to the same audience. It will either alienate people from watching both shows or wear people

whole bunch of DC comics characters. Just and Professor Zoom. They limit the CGI use to a few scenes per episode, so when they do it looks really good. They do this headon running that looks really dated because I remember seeing it in Smallville, but when they use a side running blur it looks awesome. The show-runners also did a great job casting the side characters, especially the S.T.A.R. Labs group, but I think I’m just a sucker for James Bond-ish gadgets. I’m excited to see what they do in the next episode.

Memorable line from this episode: “Does that include ‘twerking’?” Memorable scene from this episode: A bank teller is handed a note and proceeds to read aloud, “This is a bank robbery,” then asks, “Is this a joke?” “Why the hell would God need to rob banks?” The Flash airs Wednesdays at 8pm on the CW

Lifestyle

Glacial Adventure By Julie Ames I wasn’t even able to make it out of the parking me. It growled, snorted, and stomped its pointy hooves angrily. Then it charged. Have you ever had a wild mountain goat attack you? It’s quite scary. From afar, these agile creatures are a tourist attraction, but up close and personal, they are beasts on a rampage. in their way. beast charged, and I jumped into the nearest bush; my dad began laughing hysterically and promptly started taking pictures of the tumultuous incident. Welcome to the Highline Trail, Glacier National Park. Set in a place that looks a lot like Switzerland (but really its Montana), this path, which is carved out in the side of a mountain. Also included: an abundant marshmallows, and my favorite, beautiful

golden bears that enjoy mauling any human who gets in their goddamn way. The full-day hike brings in stunning views of the glacial valley sculpted out below. I suggest to stop at viewing points to take in the scenery, and not while you are in the middle of walking. The beauty of the raw wilderness can be quite stunning, and cause one to lose Just as I almost did halfway through the hike. I caught my foot on a rock, and took a beautiful stumble. From behind, my mom screamed, causing others in front of us to turn around and gape. I didn’t care that I was falling, I only cared about the one hundred Almost in slow motion, I somehow managed on my side, making sure not to land on the backpack. Furious and embarrassed, I immediately picked myself up and practically sprinted away, leaving my parents behind in a daze of emotions.

The trail concludes at a rustic chalet located at the heart of the park. It was once used by the Great Northern Railroad in its heyday, but now serves as a seasonal ‘resort’ for those willing to trek to it. There is no electricity, no plumbing; the chalet is not for the feint-hearted. The views and the little adventure (emphasis on the ‘little’) is your thing, then I suggest you hit up Glacier National Park. Set in a place that looks a lot like Switzerland (but really its Montana), this path, which is carved out in the side of a mountain. incIuded: an abundant variety of animal life like my favorite, beautiful golden bears that enjoy mauling any human that gets in their way. The full-day hike brings in stunning views of the glacial valley sculpted out below. However, I suggest to stop at viewing points to take in the scenery, and not while you are in

One with the Waves

the hike. I caught my foot on a rock, and took a beautiful stumble. From behind, my mom screamed, causing others in front of us to turn around and gape. Almost in slow motion, I somehow managed to twist body away from not to land on the backpack. Furious and embarrassed, I immediately picked myself up and practically sprinted away. The trail concludes at a rustic chalet located at the heart of the park. It was once used by the Great Northern Railroad in its heyday, but now serves as a seasonal ‘resort’ for those willing to trek to it. The views and a little adventure is your thing, then I suggest you hit up Glacier National Park.

By Camille Hove

Rushing down the face of a ten foot wave with only karma to guide me, I watch the peak crash behind me. I make a quick bottom turn and then carve up to the top again. My nine foot board slides easily against the water, the

us. And we can’t look back once we go in. I have to see, hear, or be in the ocean every other day. When it’s been too long, I get this itch under my skin. It starts in my toes and works all the way up to my hands and eyes.

Hurricane Norbert. Even though I wasn’t in the water, I still enjoyed standing on the pier and watching my fellow water men slip or tumble down the turbulent waves.

clutch beneath my toes.

the beach. The surf culture in California is a very clichéd concept. Surfers are more than a bunch of dudes sitting around waiting for

it. I surf in Manhattan Beach with a group of 60 year old Asian guys. I go to Palos Verdes

the world. It’s more than a sport. It’s my life. Without it, I wouldn’t be me.

the middle of walking. The beauty of the raw wilderness can be quite stunning, and cause one to lose their footing and thus, almost fall

pearl, eat shit, wipe out, carve, kick out, and get barreled. It’s pretty easy to pick up once who speak it.

borrowed a friend’s board and headed down to Hermosa Beach. I tripped on the leash, swallowed too much salt water and got a face The water calls to certain people. It beckons

word. We live for the water. We follow the trends of the swell and go hunting. When a hurricane is coming in from down the coast, we rush right toward it. I went down to Seal Beach to see the 20 foot plus waves from

I want to travel all over the world and surf every spot imaginable. I don’t know if anyone has done it, but I’m going to. That’s the main reason I studied abroad in Australia last year. I was thinking about London, but then I stopped myself. I said, why would I go to a place with no beach that rains everyday? I laughed and changed my plans. In Australia I hit up all of the world’s famous beaches. Bells, Bondi, Manly and Byron had the best waves I’ve ever seen. I also rented a board and checked out a freezing but beautiful beach in Dunedin, New Zealand. I’ve scheduled my life around surfing, and I know a lot of people that do the same. People who will do any kind of oceanrelated job or have hours that let them

surf. As long as I’m around the ocean I’m happy. It’s a connection to the Earth when you ride the waves that she gives you. You appreciate the life you have because you’ve found paradise. When I’m surfing, I don’t think of anything else. time in the ocean. I have created my own unique surf culture that I share with my family and friends. If you want to join in, grab a board and paddle out!

Lifestyle

Let’s Make a Deal Consider friendship as an investment

The Fit Life

By Monica Nguyen

By Cole Hughey

—

Literature

Spook Me If You Can It’s just a game Jeanine lined the edges of the bathroom with candles and lit them with care with the matches from the kitchen drawer Mom had said never to open. She had taken the

her voice echoing. The planchette began to

By Megan Crayne Beall which she had been practicing the last few days

hell Jeanine had created.

Then—the best part of the trick— and folded her arms.

across from it against the sink. She sat by the feebly. Emily laid motionless. and the bathroom door opened—it was in her trembling hands.

glowed gold from the candlelight. She

long hair.

She had been planning this prank for

them to play. She conned Emily into forking

from their middle school.

back on the piece.

her eyes. widened with every letter. Jeanine spoke D-E-M-O-N

Her hands were sprawled over her face.

They stared into each other’s eyes for a

on the planchette.

Jeanine screamed as she had never screamed before. The planchette moved silently across the

I-W-A-N-T-J-E-A-N

the tile. The board slid across the room

G-O-T Y-O-U!

Literature

There is a third option

By Matt McNeese

Illustration by Rose Feduk

Travel

Getting from point LA to LB Creating a life for myself in Long Beach was a complete social shift, when I moved here about two years ago. Born and raised in South Central LA, I could honestly say I was spoiled when it came to all the culture the were always a short car ride away. Not to mention all the joy I would get in exploring word of mouth venues like the Five Star Bar and The Redwood in downtown.

By Oscar Bautista

Graphic by Abdallah Seoud

getting all of my experiences erased and having to start from scratch, but that’s when

best part of living in an underrated city is the serendipty that comes with discovering

Long Beach, I got a buzz from the discoveries, which I would have never felt if I had stayed back home. Little did I know there exists a

getting the best Cuban torta in town, I mosey

for all of this: the will to venture into the city itself. Either with friends or on your own, Long Beach is a city meant to be discovered, a city that has yet to be explored, to get the best out of. You aren’t handed anything when you come to this town, but you do earn every ounce of excitement when you decide to take

life of its own without all the pompousness of an iconic city. Long Beach has just as many venues, restaurants, and arts as any other city. The

a musical mood, I go to the Federal Bar with new bands playing every week. Each show is like my own private concert from the best There is only one thing this city requires

California is the only place for me! By Antonio Lavermón Being from Northern California, I found myself in a completely new environment when I decided to indulge in the experiences of a Southern California. Everything down here seems to be a nonstop cycle of exerted energy without stopping or taking the time do sleep, it is as if we didn’t because we still feel tired when we wake up the next day. Northern California is a good place to live in regards to there being relaxation and rain. But down here, it is as if the world never stops moving and I believe it has to do with the thriving night life and the abundance Southern California a natural hot spot for a high quality social life. Before moving to Long Beach, I knew that being in the Los Angeles county was going to

Illustration by Rose Feduk

be a thrill; the city life, the restlessness, the education, the independence have all been common attributes. Recently, the weather has been refusing to be ideal, nevertheless, I do believe that will get better and if not, it just takes a little adjusting. One of the best things I have seen so far of the SoCal natives. I do not know how it is to live in other areas around the county, but I have never seen a more ethnically or culturally diverse range of people. I have never been more comfortable being myself and expressing myself around a crowd I am slowly joining Needless to say, I am very happy to be in this part of California. I chose to come down here because this is the area I wanted to establish my career. So far, I have not been disappointed.

Food

A Poof of Creativity

By Joel Martinez

Volume 75 Issue 8

Monday, October 13, 2014

LBUNION.COM

DISCLAIMER: Special Agent Dale Cooper here! Harry, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don’t plan it. Don’t wait for it. Just let it happen. It could be a new shirt at the men’s store, a catnap in your office chair, or two cups of good, hot black coffee. This page is satire/parody and does not represent ASI nor the CSULB campus. Submit pie via email to grunion@lbunion.com.

Long Beach To Name New Park After Bradley Nowell (Long Beach, Calif.) Today, Long Beach City Council voted on an initiative sure to please stoned 16-yearolds throughout the city; the construction of a new park named after Long Beach native and white boy icon, Bradley Nowell. “The city of Long by Dorkus Malorkus Beach has been impacted in a big way by the music of Sublime and the genius of Bradley Nowell. All of our most obnoxious and tattooed citizens will surely be ecstatic to spend time in the newest

conference last week. The park is sure to impress even the most strung out addict wasting his/her life away while listening to 40oz to Freedom for the millionth time. Amenities include a dirt pit in the Northwest corner where heroin users are invited to shoot up; safe needle disposal boxes throughout the park, where junkies can practice safe needling; a smoking patio, where cops will totally look the other way; and a skate-park with a sound system that plays Local resident Chaz Bartlett thinks the park is a much desired improvement to the community and a tasteful homage to Long

Beach history. “You know, whenever I think of Long Beach, I think of lame covers of really good songs, drugs and whatever else while looking at the park currently under this will capture the spirit of our community. Placing it right here in Belmont Shore is just Others feel the completion of this project puts an end to a competing project, the construction of a park made as an homage to another famous Long Beach resident, Snoop Lion. Although the initially popular project was considered for some time, the Long Beach City Council moved in the direction of

Bradley Nowell Park simply because Snoop Lion continues to change his name with little rhyme or reason. “We only need one park named after a musician whose persona revolves around said Bartlett, before proceeding to ask where the nearest dispensary was located. Bradley Nowell Park is scheduled to open on February 12, 2015, commemorating that time Bradley was really stoned and ate like 20 Jack in the Box tacos after a show.

2 Chainz and Weezy On: Ebola, NFL, and More...

by Weezey

EBOLA

NFL scandals?

2 Chainz: Two chains, four bracelets, one Wayne, one 2 Chainz, one global pandemic crisis. Hey Weezy, what are your feelings on the ebola

off, my boi Rice beat it up on the court. 2C: He beat it up on the court, he beat it up in the sheets and he beat it up in high rise elevators. 2C: his actions. You wanna treat yo hunnies with respect. Hunnies respect this dihhh! 2C: Yo, those hunnies have hopes and dreams. Hunnies are autonomous beings that reserve the right to make their own decisions regarding their bodies and their lives, and they should be treated as equals to their male counterparts. What do autobots got to do with this conversation?

concerning a milli people; Ebola, ebola, ebola, ebola, ebola.

very serious issue and I hope it can be resolved quickly. 2C: Yaaaaaaah, 2 Chainz. Yo, all my cars Young Tunchi, Young Tunchi.

2C: But what about the protesting for democracy in Hong Kong?

EPILOGUE 2C: They already did that with the six million dollar man. Anyway, how do you feel about the Godzilla nuanced portrayal of a man attempting to save the rest of his family from an otherworldly threat was admirable, and quite frankly, the only enjoyable aspect of the movie.

2 Chainz: And as our conversation comes to a close, I am left to wonder, what my role as 2 Chainz is, in regards to all the topics we discussed today? Is a catchy verse any less infectious than Ebola? Are banging rhymes less important than banged up NFL wives? What really is the point of Twin Peaks? Is it about lady lumps? The world may never know.

2C: discussion anymore.

HONG KONG STUDENT PROTESTS NFL

I only know Donkey Kong. Straight up, best game. Young money, cash money. 2C: What about them dinosaurs? Do you like Godzilla?

been announced David Lynch will direct new episodes of his iconic Twin Peaks, slated for release in 2016. What are your thoughts on this exciting news? Twin Peaks lumps right? 2C: …

2C: Tunchi, how you feel about all the Chinese protesting for democracy?

2C: Young Weezy, how do you feel about the

TWIN PEAKS 2C: So, in entertainment related news, it has

INSIDE

SCIENTIST PROVES SHOWERING GRAPE WAY TO BE HYGIENIC”

“IS

NEW STUDY SAYS TREES NEED LOTION TO PREVENT CRACKS

LATEST TREND ON WALL STREET: DANCE OFFS!

LOCAL WAITER CONTRACTS STD BY HANDLING LARGE TIP