Dancers take to the stage for the Spring Dance Ensemble. Page 9 April 30, 2015
Volume 88, Issue 14
AZTLAN DOMINATION CONTINUES
Published Since 1927
Board accused of violating the Brown Act President Oakley’s extended contract prompts concerns over transparency.
Brandon Richardson/Viking Aztlan Blue, front, and Aztlan Gold go head-to-head during LBCC’s 40th annual Mini Grand Prix on Thursday, April 16, at the PCC. See more photos and story on pages 6 and 7.
Homeless student numbers rising By Kelly Mahaffey Staff Writer
provides a temporary residence for individuals intended to be institutionalized or a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings.” An article on thoughtcatalog. com explains that homelessness as a student is harmful in every kind of way, from academic success to health stability and social development. The extreme pressure of not knowing where they are going to sleep at night, how to get homework done and a lack of structure challenge academic success and make it difficult to finish
Panelist Elsa Ramos, Long Beach’s Multi-Service Center coordinator, provided insight into Colleges around the nation the process required to confirm are launching programs and the eligibility of individuals bebrainstorming ways to support fore services can be offered. The the growing number of homeless process often deters people from students on campus. coming back for help. According to the Free AppliRamos explained that alcation for Federal Student Aid though homeless shelters offer (FAFSA.com), about 58,000 stumany people a safe, temporary dents declared homelessness on dwelling, shelters also have strict their financial aid application this curfews that conflict with the class year. The is a 75 percent increase schedules of students who would from 2013 and expected to rise. otherwise stay at the shelter. According to FAFSA, the acAfter the workshop, Magdaletual number has tripled, factoring no was approached by several emin students who keep their situployees who had no idea so many ation a secret to avoid the students were homeless. She stigma commonly associated “Call me or email me. I will return said, “We did good. A lot of with homeless people. good information was exyour call and we’ll figure it out.” “I think most people changed today.” -Sunny Zia think that homeless people It was unanimous that Area 3 Trustee are lazy, dirty and crazy,” said a uniform plan be made for Kevin Saunders, 21, an elecemployees so they can assist trical engineer major. “I am none their education, the article said. students who identify as homeless of those things.” The unique challenges of stu- in the future. A music major, 27, who wish- dents who are homeless were exAt the March 24 Board of es to remain anonymous, said, pressed in a workshop on LBCC’s Trustees meeting, Trustee Sunny “None of my classmates know I Flex Day, March 10, at the Diver- Zia opened her door to students am homeless.” sity, Equity and Inclusion Confer- who are homeless. Zia said, “Call According to the 1994 Stew- ence at the PCC. me or email me. I will return your art B. McKinney Act, a person is Corrinne Magdaleno, dean call and we’ll figure it out.” considered homeless who “lacks of counseling and student supStudents seeking help may a fixed, regular, adequate night- port services, arranged a panel contact Zia at (562) 270-5017 or time residence and ... has a pri- addressing student homelessness. by email to sunny.zia@gmail.com. mary night time residency that is The panel consisted of one stu- For more information about the a supervised publicly or privately dent currently homeless, a for- Multi-Service Center, people may operated shelter designed to pro- merly homeless alumnus and two contact Ramos at (562) 570-4588. vide temporary living accom- representatives from shelters and modations, an institution that community support.
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the Board and the Board president. If there was an unintentional Brown Act violation, I am sure the Board will do everything in its power to take the appropriate action.” During the March 10 meeting, lawyer Spencer Covert was By Sylvana Uribe present to address the legality of Staff Writer the extension and said the Board was not in violation of the Brown A violation of the Brown Act Act. When asked by Zia if the is in question after a local resident public had an opportunity to refiled claims against the LBCC view the document and offer inBoard of Trustees put before voting on it, with the Los Angeles Covert said the Board is County District Atresponsible for reviewing torney’s office over the and amending contracts, extension of President which the public can Eloy Oakley’s conthen comment on once tract. it has become public reThe claims were cord. filed by Chris PreArea 4 Trustee Dougvatt. He addressed las Otto said, “The gennon-agendized pay Douglas Otto eral public is not a party raises made to Oakley to those negotiations and since 2013 and the Board’s alleged once the contract is completed violation of the Brown Act with and adopted, then there are plenthe LBCC president’s contract ty of opportunities to comment.” extension because the contract Oakley’s new contract, valued was not available for public dis- at $320,568, included redistribucussion or review prior to the vot- tion of mileage and retirement ing, which funds into occurred at “The general public is not a his base the March salary. Un10 meeting. party to those negotiations and der his P re v att once the contract is completed 2013 conis the fortract, Oakmer pub- and adopted, then there are ley’s base lisher of the plenty of opportunities to comsalary was news blog $264,348 ment.” The Liberal and includOC and has -Douglas Otto ed annual Area 4 trustee 4 an extensive percent background raises. He in the Brown Act, a law meant to received a 2 percent raise in Janpromote transparency by protect- uary 2015. ing the public’s right to participate In an interview March 27, and attend meetings of local legis- Area 5 Trustee Virginia Baxter lative bodies. said, “There was no increase in Two years before Oakley’s salary, it was just a different way contract ending, the Board voted of accounting for his contract.” to extend his term until February The district attorney’s office 2019. The extension passed in a has confirmed it has received 4-1 vote, with Area 3 Trustee Sun- Prevatt’s claims and placed them ny Zia voting against it. under review. If the district attorThe extension followed weeks ney’s office were to investigate and of uncertainties if Oakley would find violations of the Brown Act, remain with the college or take then Oakley’s extension could be a position as chancellor of the voided and the Board would have Coast Community College Dis- to restart the process publicly. trict in Orange County. Oakley At the end of the Board meetlater said he could not see himself ing Tuesday, April 28, Prevatt leaving Long Beach and would spoke to the Board directly and continue at LBCC. said, “You indeed violated the Student Trustee Gus Orozco Brown Act.” said, “I have total confidence in
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NEWS
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Part-time profs gain 5 percent salary increase Board also told LBCC will hire 27 new full-time teachers for Fall.
By Elizabeth Cheruto Contributing Editor After years of heated debate, the part-time teachers of LBCC were granted a 5 percent pay raise Tuesday, April 28, by the Board of Trustees. The 5-0 vote by the Board in T1100 at the LAC followed pay cuts, layoffs, furloughs, pay freezes and stalled and controversial negotiations between the union of about 700 employees. The settlement coincides with the announcement Monday by LBCC President Eloy Oakley that 44 positions were extended from 10 months to 12 months and three new positions added. Also, Oakley announced Monday and at the Board meeting that the college will hire 27 fulltime teachers to start this Fall. The increased staffing costs will total about $3.6 million, officials said. Meanwhile, the Board also approved awarding dual associate degrees retroactive to Fall 2014, which means students may acquire an additional degree if they meet the requirements. Also, John Pope, LBCC communications director, together with Tim McLarney of True North Research and Scott Summerfield of SAE Communications, presented to the board an LBCC assessment survey that said almost 36 percent of people have a “very favorable” view of the college. The random survey of about 1,800 people also revealed that nearly 61 percent listed LBCC first when asked to name a college or university. The figure was more than double those who listed Cal State
Long Beach first. The survey included about 25,000 phone calls, focus groups and 1-on-1 interviews and online results. McLarney called the positive results “phenomenally high.” Summerville said the students in the focus group were “brutally honest” and listed challenged in addition to positive parts of the college. The survery cost about $65,000. Area 3 Trustee Sunny Zia had concerns about some results from the survey and asked for clarifications. She wanted to know if the survey is able to track the success rate of students whop graduate and especially those who try to enter the work force. Oakley responded to her question, saying the college has no complete method to track students into employment. Later in the meeting, Paul Creason, Dean of health, kinesiology, science and math, Ken Starkman, dean of career and technical education, and Jennifer Rodden, Dean of language arts, provided the Board a comprehensive report on credit-based career and technical education, which include 37 programs, 54 areas of emphasis and 180 degrees and certificates at the college. David Lehman from the History and Political Science Department thanked the Board for approving his sabbatical leave. He informed the board, that it was a good opportunity for him to carry out intensive research. Finally, Human Resources Vice resident Rose DelGaudio, support staff union president Thomas Hamilton and Academic Senate President Karen Kane presented to the board The LEAD Academy program. The project for employees is designed to increase professional and personal development, starting in August.
April 30, 2015
SILENT TIME TO RELAX
Tyisha Ali/ Viking A health class participates in the Spring into Health event hosted by health service in the A Building Courtyard Wednesday, April 22
Paramedics assist student By Elizabeth Cheruto Contributing Editor
The paramedics walked from the T Building with an unidentified woman in a gurney, who they did not disclose any information about her situation or condition stating it is their policy. Most of the eyewitnesses at the LAC said they did not know what was happening. Brittney Abajian, 20, a business major, said, “The situation seemed calm, I don’t know what was happening, but I overheard the paramedics on a radio call conversation saying that the lady is 23, 90 pounds, with dizziness.” Another eye witness Zaira Funes, 22, political science major said, I just arrived when the paramedics were entering building T2352. A few minutes later, they were out with the lady on the gunny, I could hear them describing her condition to someone on the radio call as 23, female, 90 pounds, who is very tired.” It is not uncommon in emergency situation for eyewitnesses
A QUIET MOMENT
Brandon Richardson/ Viking Students enjoy the new Central Quad at the LAC when fences came down Monday, April 20. The improvements to the Quad were funded by Bond Measure E, which passed in the 2002 and 2008 elections.
to give different account of what they saw or heard. Cindi Shaheen, a registered nurse at the PCC health services, said, “There have been a lot of emergencies on campus, most of them are diabetic conditions, cardiac, asthma attack, injuries, cuts and psychiatric conditions such as bipolar. Some students walk to the health center but others are walked over by a student or staff if the situation is serious, I call 911.” Shaheen said that in times of emergency, most students are not able to differentiate what is urgent and what is emergent so they end up taking the students to the health center instead of calling for 911. A patient at the PCC health services Sam Yarbro, 46, a human services major, said he had gone to see the nurse because he had an allergy attack. Police Lt. Julie Prior said several types of emergencies might challenge students and employees, such as fires, earthquakes, airplane crashes, shooting, bomb threats and car accidents.
Prior said, “The college has had a few incidents over the years. We had a bomb threat this year at LAC and last year we had the shooting at PCC. But in case of an actual shooting on campus, everyone should run and hide, fight is the new strategy being followed. “There is a video that covers this and I recommend everyone should watch it at fbi.gov/ run-hide-fight-video, and in case of an emergency, the officers and special security Officers are trained to handle variety of situations, as they are first-responders. There are two officers per campus during the peak times of instruction and activities.” The manager at the PCC Child Development Center, Stacy Smith, said they are mandated to do emergency drills once a month to evacuate 106 children and 24 staff. She added that all the teachers and staff are CPR certified and incase of an emergency they will be able to do what they need to do, then call 911.
By Darel James Staff Writer
two reports filed at the PCC in February. Auto burglary is up two reports due to incidents happening during the Veterans Stadium swap meet in March. One report of auto burglary was filed last February which took place at the LAC in Lot K. No reports were recorded of lost or stolen property in March, though three reports last month at the LAC were recorded. Found property is up one report at the LAC after last month’s two reports, both at the LAC. Drivers filed one report each of vehicle accidents for March, one each at the PCC and the other at the LAC, no reports were made in that category last month. The total number of reports taken for March were 29 compared to 21 in February. Total parking citations issued for March 2015 reached 1,131, compared to 780 the prior month.
Vandalism count rises Reports of vandalism have risen since the beginning of the 2015 year at both LBCC campuses. Five reports of vandalism were reported to the March 2015. LBCC monthly police report, with three at the LAC and two at the PCC. Before the March statistics, one report in February and no report for January were filed. Petty theft decreased from three reports at the PCC since last February to one report each at both Campuses. There were no reports at the LAC for Petty in February. Grand theft is down to zero after one incident was reported in February at the LAC. Motor vehicle theft is up by one report with an incident in the LAC parking structure. Burglary is down to zero after
April 30, 2015
FOOD DRIVE
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Auto Club delivers with first food drive
Cans of food pile up at the Automotive club food drive at PCC.
LBCC Automotive Club adviser Danny Tan speaks with FM Wheels company owner Abraham Sandoval during the club’s canned food drive at the PCC Sunday, April 26.
Story and Photos By Darel James Staff Writer
reminded students of the college that the Automotive Club is still functioning. Club president and general auto major Members of the LBCC Automotive Cynthia Veopseuth, 22, said, “Supporting Club hosted a can food drive at the PCC a cause for the Long Beach area, collecting on Sunday, April 26. food and showing our community that we The event from 12:30-4:30 p.m. includ- care about our automotive program were ed students, alumni and residents learning some of the goals we aimed for during this more about the Automotive Department. event. People attending the “I really apprecievent also had the “I hope our next event is even ated the support from chance to win raf- bigger with more support.” my club members, fled prizes and were since it’s our first -Cynthia Veopseuth event as a club. I hope served concessions. LBCC Automotive Club President our next event is even Fine arts and automotive technology major Vincent Parti- bigger with more support.” da, 21, said, “We’re just here to have fun, Visitors were able to speak with club better the community and let people know members and teachers to get more inforthat even through the hard times, the mation on upcoming events, automotive LBCC Auto Club is still trying to strive.” courses and anything new happening with Taking place in Lot 10 near the JJ the organization. building, the drive was the club’s first ofVisitors also were able to view a showficial event that focused on helping the case of a few vehicles in Lot 10 owned by community. The event also was directed club members and alumni, plus a few into bringing in new members and students teresting tools such as a complete open diwho are looking to study auto mechanics agram of a Hyundai Sonata. The diagram, or be part of the club. which was donated by the Hyundai Car After the removal of some courses pre- Company, has been used to help students viously offered in the auto department, the taking automotive courses understand club membership declined. The event also how a car works.
LBCC Automotive Club adviser Danny Tan, right, talks with interested visitors Chris, left, and Sora about the functions of the “Zebra” transportation vehicle. The miniature car was on display during the clubs canned food drive which also included club alumni, students and locals.
Some of the donations, raffle prizes and concessions were on display at the first Automotive Club food drive. The open diagram of a Hyundai Sonata sits in the auto mechanics garage at the PCC. The learning tool was openly displayed during the canned food drive.
LOTERIA
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April 30, 2015
Spanish Club plays a game of chance By Cindy Macias Staff Writer Noche de loteria bonds the Latin community Pan dulce, fresh churros, Abuelita, a Mexican-style hot chocolate and the sound of Mexican pop rock band Maná playing in the background filled the atmosphere in P110 on Thursday, April 23 as the Spanish Club prepared to start its annual Noche de Loteria. Loteria is a Mexican game of chance much like bingo, but instead uses images on a deck of cards rather than numbers on Ping-Pong balls. Traditionally, loteria is played using pinto beans as markers on the individual players card. Games were 50 cents per card per round and were being purchased from accounting major Melissa Navas-Antillon, 21. The night consisted of over 15 rounds with various ways of winning every game; four corners, line, blackout, four in the center and borders. “I love it, it’s really fun. These separate hangouts,” Liz Moreno, 28, a psychology major said on the idea of having loteria nights at LBCC. When someone won a round, the winner received a ticket they could place in a jar in front of desired item. If preferred, raffle tickets were purchased at $5 for seven tickets from Alejandra Reyna, 30, a business administration major. Items being raffled were gift baskets, tickets, gift cards, other items including a 2015 Loteria calendar and a small floral Betsey Johnson purse. Gift baskets
Cindy Macias/Viking Loteria players get ready for a new round and members of the club do a raffle while participants wait in P110 on Thursday, April 23. Over 30 people showed up to the Spanish Club's annual Noche de Loteria.
included school supplies, Tupperware, beauty products, baking ingredients or crafting supplies. Theater tickets and tickets to Aquarium of the Pacific were part of the raffle as well as gift cards to Yogurtland, Starbucks, In-N-Out Burger, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Chipotle, and the Rock Bottom restaurant. Denise Espinoza, 22, a culinary arts major, won a gift basket
that contained the baking ingredients which in her opinion, was the perfect item for her because she is part of a baking program for her culinary arts major. Erica Quintero, sister of club advisor Dr. Cynthia Quintero, gave up a raffle prize to someone because she had already won two other raffles before the third one. Toward the end of the night, Quintero offered a couple of games on the house with a chance to instantly win a gift card to Starbucks. The Spanish Club is a diverse group with about 13 active members from Latin countries such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Ecuador, Guatemala and Peru.
Juan-David Pazmiño, 22, an accounting major, said, “I enjoy the fact that I can socialize with other ambitious Latin Americans, speaking our own dialects of Spanish and taking part in socialize activities. I was looking for leadership opportunities to meet other Hispanics, so the Spanish Club was it.” Club President Angelina Castillo, 27, a Spanish major, has been president for two semesters and a member of the club for four. “My main goal is to get more members to grow and inspire, to learn more about their roots and culture. We actually have a voice, it’s up to us. I’ve grown a lot by actually being involved.”
Club meetings are Thursdays in the Valhalla Room on the second floor of the LAC E Building College Center from noon to 1 p.m. If interested in joining the club, students must attend a meeting or show interest by being part of their newsletter by emailing the club to spanishclub.lbcc@gmail. com. People keep updated on their events and activities by adding them on Facebook facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100008296212339&fref=ts or following them on Instagram @Spanish_Club_LBCC. For more information, people may send the Spanish Club an email.
Cindy Macias/Viking Pinto beans are used as markers. Traditionally, Mexican people also use small rocks or crown corks.
Cindy Macias/Viking Denise Espinoza, 22, a culinary arts major, receives a gift basket she won from a raffle. Espinoza said this item was ideal because she is part of a baking program in culinary arts. Cindy Macias/Viking Bryant Ontiveros, 22, celebrates after winning a game. Ontiveros is a member of the club.
CITYSTYLE
April 30, 2015
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Eco Club educates students on plastic Film informs students on the consequences of ocean pollution. By Hunter King CityStyle Editor Plastic soup was the topic of discussion during the film screening of “Addicted to Plastic” in celebration of Earth Day on Wednesday April 22. The film was presented to students at both campuses to increase awareness about where plastic trash ends up. Eco Club President Marianne Aguilar, 18, chose the topic due to LBCC’s location and the community’s connection to the ocean. Guest speaker, Katie Allen, a marine researcher and representative from Algalita Marine Research and Education Foundation, engaged students after the 6 p.m. presentation at the LAC. The film addressed the increasing pollution of the ocean due to misplaced plastic. It informed students that approximately 80% of ocean pollution originates on land and is dumped into the ocean due to a lack of space available in landfills. Once dispersed into the water, waves and sunrays breakup
Hunter King/Viking PLASTIC’S PERSPECTIVE: Marianne Aguilar, 18, a kinesiology major and president of the Community Eco Club, speaks to the audience of over 100 who attended the event in celebration of Earth Day on Wednesday, April 22. The event included a film screening of "Addicted to Plastic" and a representative from the Algalita Marine Research Foundation and guest speaker regarding ocean plastic pollution.
the plastic into smaller pieces, but these pieces do not break down, the film explained. Cleanup efforts are being taken to collect plastic out of the ocean, but the degree of pollution runs deep. Allen compared the plastic soup of the ocean to a bowl of cereal where the water is milk
and the plastic pieces are Fruit Loops. Once the Fruit Loops are introduced into the milk, they begin to soften and their colors run, turning the milk into a rainbow of Fruit Loop residue. Cleanup efforts are represented by a spoon and filter. The spoon removes the larger chunks of cereal, while the
filter removes the color from the milk. Afterwards, the milk may appear to be in its original state, but the taste of the Fruit Loops will still remain. The metaphor communicated to students the severity of pollution the ocean is experiencing. Here at LBCC, the Eco Club
spired them. Gaspar is a former 30-year LBCC professor who has written five poetry books and two novels. Gaspar has won many awards, among them are the 2008 Portuguese American Leadership Council Literary Achievement Award and the 2000 California Book Award for First Novel for his 1999 novel “Leaving Pico.” Gaspar read a few of poems out of his poetry books such as “Can You Hear the Wind Howl” from his 2004 poetry book “Night of a thousand Blossoms” and “Forget the Lemons.” Maria Duarte, 29, a commu-
nications major and a former student of Gaspar, said, “When I came to LBCC, after I left high school, I had Professor Gaspar as my teacher for creative writing. Now that I am taking more classes here after getting my bachelor’s degree from CSULB and taking a 2-year break and I want to see him again.” The book reading packed the room as Gaspar recited his new poem called “One of Us.” Gaspar said, “When I do these events, I always want to read a new poem, just to show I’m still alive and still writing, I guess.” Then he talked about what it takes
to be a writer, how he writes and he deals with writing poetry over time. Jonathn Ribas, 24, an administration of justice major, said, “I’m not familiar with poetry, I write a lot, but I wasn’t sure if it was poetry and now I feel good, like I now have a sense of what I am doing. I really enjoyed what he said about writing poetry. It takes time. ” Ribas said, “I would like to see more creative writing events like this. I think hearing more speakers like Gaspar and all the other professors would encourage many people.”
is doing its part by educating students, collecting recycling and heading cleanup efforts around the community, but it’s not an easy task, explained PCC President Ben White, 30. “Students are not as involved as I’d like to see,” he said. Aguilar explained that it’s difficult to simply distribute recycling bins around the campus. LBCC currently hires an outside group to sort trash and pick out the recycling. The Eco Club and many students alike said funds could better be spent on recycling bins, so students could throw away recyclables and trash into the designated containers, eliminating the need for trash sorting later. “Recycling bins have not been approved,” Aguilar said. White hopes to see more cooperation between the student government and the Eco Club in the future. For now, the Eco Club continues to assist the community in local cleanup. On Saturday May 16, they will sponsor a cleanup on Seal Beach from 9 a.m.–noon. For more information, people may contact Aguilar at marianne.aguilar1122@gmail.com. The Eco Club meets at the PCC every Monday at 5 p.m. and at the LAC every Wednesday at 3 p.m.
Professionals recite poetry and sign books
By Tyisha Ali Staff Writer
As part of National Poetry Month, LBCC professors presented afternoons of poetry in The Marian Sims Baughn Center for Literary Arts. On Thursday, April 23, former LBCC professor and award-winning poet Frank Gaspar returned to the center at the LAC in P104 once more for a reading and book signing along with Charla Howard, Jeff Epley, Jason Casem, Kathryn McMurray, Denis Dumars and Christina Guillen, who shared their poetry and what in-
On Friday, April 17, award-winning poet Sholeh Wolpe visited a small crowd in the English Department for a reading and book signing of her latest books at the LAC in P104. Wolpe is an Iranian born poet, author and literary translator who has traveled to many places before settling down in the U.S. She has written books of translation such as “Sin” and “Breaking the Jaws of Silence.” She has edited three anthologies and has three collections of poetry books. Wolpe is the recipient of the 2014 PEN/ Heim Award.
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Tyisha Ali/Viking Frank Gasper signs copies of his book and greets fans in the Marian Sims Baughn Center for Literay Arts on Thursday April 23.
6
MINI GRAND PRIX
April 30, 2015
Aztlan’s winning
Brittany Lieberman/Contribu Members of the social-service club Men of Aztlan cross the finish line. A close semi-final race against the order of TONG, Aztlan went on to win the Mini Grand Prix at t PCC, on Thursday, April, 16.
Brandon Richardson/Viking A PNK women’s team practices before the 40th annual LBCC Mini Grand Prix begins.
David Quezada, 20, a philosophy major, is carried on th and complete the fastest lap time during the race at t
April 30, 2015
MINI GRAND PRIX
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g streak continues
utor
the
Men of Aztlan wins 40th annual Mini Grand Prix, bringing their streak to nine years. By Sylvana Uribe Staff Writer For the ninth year in a row, the Aztlan men’s social-service club won first place for the fastest relay at the Mini Grand Prix at the PCC on Thursday, April 16. Aztlan Blue crossed the finish line at 29.04 seconds and club members rushed to the winning team and carried racer David Quezada up in the air. The club then huddled together as members loudly chanted their club’s name and posed for group photos to commemorate the victory. Quezada, 20, a philosophy major,
said, “I was focused on the race and each other in the finals at the 2014 Mini nine straight wins, that’s crazy.” Grand Prix. Aztlan alumnus David Navarro, 20, This year, Tong Little Sisters won a psychology major, said he remained first place for the fastest relay at 35 seccautious rather than afraid the club onds. would lose its long-standing title. Tong Little Sisters’ Ashley Batts, “ O t h e r 20, a biology major groups here “We worked so hard for it and it said, “We worked did really well, so hard for it and it shows that our hard work pays better than I shows that our hard expected,” Na- off and how well we can come work pays off and varro said. “We together as a club and win some- how well we can helped build the come together as a track and we thing like this.” club and win somehad some time -Ashley Batts thing like this.” off the track to During the race, Tong Little Sisters practice and we the Ladies of Akna did a lot of running and conditioning. It and TNT crashed into each other withwas a lot more physical and psychologi- in seconds of leaving the starting line cal practice that we did.” and were forced to re-run their match. PNK, known as the Ladies of Isis, TNT racer Madeline Perez, 18, a biand Tong Little Sisters made it to the ology major, said, “We were surprised. I finals and club members considered saw them creeping up, but I didn’t know it a rematch as they had raced against the cart was going crash into us. It was a
very big impact.” Other recognition included PNK’s tie-dye ensemble that earned them the award for most spirited. The award for best cart design went to the Metal Fabrication Club for its aluminum cart. Student Life coordinator Teila Robertson said, “Our students who come and go, they need to know what traditions we held here so we got to keep our Mini Grand Prix.” The race was livestreamed on Periscope by the Viking newspaper’s editor in chief, Brandon Richardson. The app was created by Twitter and allows a person to broadcast in real time and followers can replay videos livestreamed within the last 24 hours. Richardson said, ““It’s really great. Being able to livestream anything, anywhere, anytime, it’s a scary thought because, let’s face it, people are weird, but it also opens up a whole new level of media with a simple, easy to use, app.”
Brandon Richardson/Viking A sign shows support for PNK.
Brittany Lieberman/Contributor he shoulders of his club members after his team, Men of Aztlan Blue, win the race the PCC.
Tyisha Ali/Viking Aztlan Gold pulls off a flawless switch during one of their races.
8
SPORTS
April 30, 2015
Vikings Lose
DIVING IN
By Jon Peacock Staff Writer
Cindy Macias/Viking High school junior Melissa Urueta, 17, dives into LAC’s swimming pool during practice with St. Josephs swim team on Wednesday, April 29. The coach of the team, Matthew Collins, 23, not pictured is a public relations major attending LBCC. Over a dozen students were practicing.
The tennis season was not quite over for sophomores Nikki Tigas and Judith Aguilar. Both qualified for a spot at the Ojai Tennis Tournament from April 23-26. Tigas qualified to play singles at the tournament, as well as doubles with her teammate Aguilar. Tigas earned the honors after defeating a member of El Camino at the conference tournament. The doubles team of Tigas and Aguilar earned their spot after defeating a doubles team at Rio Hondo. Tigas started her tournament on Thursday with a win against Claudia Plascencia Astudillo of American River. Tigas and Aguilar later that day took on a doubles team from Diablo Valley. Tigas was defeated by sixth seed Hali Dickson from Orange Coast. The doubles team was then defeated by Teresa de Anda and Bettina Olah from Palomar. The tournament marked the end of the season for Tigas and Aguilar.
Volleyball team falls Vikings lose to Orange Coast, 3-1, in playoffs. By Will Ranos Sports Editor
Darel James/Viking KILLING IT: LBCC freshman libero Travis Hoodye trains during men’s volleyball practice Tuesday, March 24, at the LAC. The Vikings were eliminated from the playoffs by Orange Coast, 3-1.
Despite being competitive in every set, the No. 3 seed LBCC men’s volleyball team lost to No. 2 seed Orange Coast, 3-1, by match scores of 25-19, 25-18, 25-22, 2516 in the California Community College Athletic Association State Championship quarterfinals. The Vikings played in their 10th straight postseason appearance on Friday, April 17, in the Peterson Gym. LBCC freshman opposite hitBy Will Ranos Sports Editor TRACK AND FIELD: Heading into the SoCal Championship preliminaries Saturday, May 2, the Vikings will have 24 track and field members representing LBCC at Cerritos College. In their last meet in the South Coast Conference Championship finals on Saturday, April 25, the Vikings had the men’s side finish fourth and the women’s finish fifth among seven schools. For the men’s side, sophomore Jose Ochoa finished second of 14 in the javelin with 47.9 meters and freshman Jared Jones placed second of 13 in the 3,000-meter steeplechase with a time of 9:53.63. Freshman Damond Burns had a third place finish out of nine in the 200-meter dash scoring a time of 21.85. On the women’s side, sophomore Danasia Richard came
ter Charles Belvin led the team with 11 kills and freshman outside hitter Makoa Tandal recorded 10 kills. Sophomore setter Rupert Scott had 43 assists and 11 digs. Sophomore libero Adam Wadley and freshman libero Austin Amian each had14 digs. The Vikes’ loss in the third set appeared to be especially crushing to them and killed the momentum they had built up. A few calls went against the Vikings at the end of the set. Viking coach Jonathan Charette said, “We were struggling to set up passes and sets. (Orange Coast) played a good game. Our goal was to win a state championship, but we overcame a lot of obstacles this year.”
LBCC had four representatives on the All-Western State Conference postseason honors. Sophomore setter Rupert Scott and freshman libero Austin Amian earned firstteam with sophomore outside hitter Alfonso Mata and freshman outside hitter Jeffrey Utupo landing second-team. Scott led the WSC and the state with 10.76 assists per set. Amian was third in the WSC with 118 digs at 3.37 digs per set. Sophomores Scott, Wadley and Alfonso Mata, have played their last game for LBCC, but with potentially 13 freshman returning from this year’s team, the Vikings should have a lot of experiencing heading into next year.
CITY SPORTS in third out of nine runners in the 100-meter dash with a time of 12.43 and tied with two other jumpers for third in the high jump out of 10 with a height of 1.46 meter. Richard also contributed to a third place finish in the 4-by-100-meter relay along with freshman Chantel Dunson, sophomore Deborahnay Love and freshman Sharone Nora. They had a time of 48.92. For the SoCal preliminaries, the Vikings will be sending 15 men and nine women. Burns will be competing in the 100-meter and 200-meter dash and also in the 4-by-100-meter relay and 4x400-m relay. Richard will be competing in the 100- and 200-m, the high jump, the 4x100-m relay and the 4x400-m relay. If any track and field members qualify, the SoCal Championship Finals at Cerritos will be Saturday, May 9. BASEBALL: The Vikings had a to-
tal of 10 All-South Coast Conference postseason honors awarded to them including SCC Coach of the Year for coach Casey Crook and SCC Pitcher of the Year for sophomore pitcher Julian Griego during Monday’s postseason coaches meeting. Griego was 6-1 in SCC play with a 1.89 earned run average. This year’s award for Crook makes it his fourth SCC Coach of the Year with his previous three coming in 1996, 2006 and 2009. He has led the Vikings to their second consecutive conference championship this year and also has LBCC going into the playoffs for the fourth time over the past eight seasons. Crook is also closing in on Joe Hicks’ school record for career wins of 513. The current LBCC coach is at 509 wins prior to their playoff match up with Orange Coast on Friday, May 1.
SPORTS
April 30, 2015
Baseball squad enters playoffs Vikes win conference as coach nears all-time mark. By Will Ranos Sports Editor
Jon Peacock/Viking WINNING FINALE: LBCC’s softball team leaves the field after winning its last game of the season Tuesday, April 21. The Vikes defeated East Los Angeles 6-1.
Vikes season ends with win; 2 honored
Softball team earns pair of AllConference spots. By Jon Peacock Staff Writer
A 6-1 win on Tuesday, April 21, over East Los Angeles marked the end of the 2015 softball season for the Vikings. East Los Angeles struck first in the top of the first with one run.
Both teams held each other off until the fifth inning came around, when the Vikes scored six runs. Freshman Vanessa Valdez had two RBIs and freshman first baseman Andrea Barb and freshman second baseman Erika Balboa had one RBI. Sophomore pitcher Mary Gonzales held the Huskies to only four hits and struck out seven in the seven innings. The Vikings ended the season with a record of 14 wins, 25 losses and one tie.
Standout players for the Vikes include Gonzales, Barb, and freshman Vanessa Valdez. Gonzales ended her season with 93 strikeouts, two home runs and 19 RBIs. Barb totaled two home runs and 21 RBIs. Valdez ended the season with a .290 batting average and 24 RBIs. Two of the Vikings were named All-South Coast Conference. Freshman Brianna Alvarez and Gonzales were chosen, the second consecutive season for Gonzales.
Scoring seven of its eight runs in the first three innings, the LBCC baseball team held on for an 8-6 win over the El Camino College-Compton Center Tartars and captured their second consecutive South Coast Conference championship Friday, April 24, at the MLB Urban Youth Academy. With the bases loaded in the top of the third, freshman center fielder Tai Tiedemann hit a single that brought in two runs. Through a couple errors by ECC Compton, the Vikings totaled five runs in the third and increased the lead to six with the score being 7-1. LBCC sophomore pitcher Julian Griego was having a good game up until the fifth inning when he gave up three runs. Griego also gave up a run in the sixth inning, which allowed ECC Compton to reduce the lead to 7-5. With the Tartars climbing their way back into the game, Vikings Aaron Fawcett scored a crucial run by hitting a solo home run in the top of the seventh. ECC Compton scored one
more run in the eighth, but the early advantage built up by the Vikings proved to be too much to overcome for the Tartars. Griego picked up the win for the Vikings, improving to 8-2 on the season. Freshman pitcher Schuyler Hill picked up the save, pitching the last two innings and allowing no runs. LBCC sophomore first baseman Tanner Levine said, “We had a lot of faith in Julian today. We just had to get runs for him. If we hit like today, there is no stopping us.” With the win, the Vikes finished 20-16 overall on the season and 15-6 in conference play. Heading into the SoCal Regionals, the Vikings will be the No. 7 seed and host No. 10 seed Orange Coast, which went 21-15 on the season and beat the Vikings in two of their three meetings. The two teams will play a best of three series with game 1 scheduled for Friday, May 1, at 2 p.m. and game 2 scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 2. If needed, a game 3 will be scheduled soon after game 2. Ticket prices for the postseason tournament are $10 for general admission and $7 for college students, employees with IDs as well as seniors ages 60 and over and children, according the LBCC athletic website.
Dreamt is the only word that ends in a-m-t. With 1,025,108 other words in the English language, what are the odds? One in 1,025,109, actually. Learn even more earning a bachelor’s degree at National University. Online. On campus. Non-profit. Don’t think you have time to learn something new? You just did. Los Angeles Campus 5245 Pacific Concourse Drive (310) 662-2000 Jon Peacock/Viking PITCHING STRONG: Sophomore pitcher Mary Gonzalez was one of two Vikings to be given All-South Coast Conference honors. Gonzalez was 6-9 on the season with a 4.10 earned run average.
Keep learning at nu.edu/transfer © 2015 National University NU15_2351
9
CALENDAR
10
HEAT SHIELD
FINANCIAL AID
SUMMER REGISTRATION
May 4-June 7 Information for Summer classes Monday, May 4- Sunday, June 14, registration by 11 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, payment deadline by 4 p.m. in person or 10 p.m. online Classes begin June 22. Graduation certificate application deadline is June 30 at 6 p.m. Enrollment services office will be closed Friday, May 15, no in-person registration. June 16 Last day to pay for Summer classes will be June 16 at 5 p.m. in person or 10 p.m. online. LAC (562) 938-4485 A1075 Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-noon PCC (562) 938-4485 MD135 Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-noon ASB
Students may submit FAFSA application or California Dream Act application for 2015-2016. Counselors appointments are available at both campuses. LAC (562) 938-4485 A1075 Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-noon PCC (562) 938-4485 MD146 Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-noon The offices will be closed for training Friday, May 15 AWARDS
May 7 Student success award Students may nominate teachers who have positively impacted them or assisted with degree applications or any help that goes above and beyond job duties For any questions about the student success awards or the nomination process: to surveygizmo.com/ s3/2114737/2015-Student-Success-Award-Nominations. For any questions, Students may contact studentsuccess@lbcc.edu. PLACEMENT SERVICE
April 30 ASB applications available for student government positions For Fall 2015 The deadline has been extended until Thursday, April 30 by 6 p.m. Applications may be turned in to LAC E118 or PCC EE102F Elections will be Tuesday-Thursday, May 12-14 Positions available are president, secretary, LAC vice president, president, PCC vice president, student trustee and treasurer lbcc.edu/StudentLife/ASB/
May 12, Orientation will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. in LAC129 for career placement services. Students may update their skills, earn recognized credential and receive career placement in eight different tracks of entry and middle-level in supply chain management with integrated career placement opportunities. Auxiliary aids and services will be available upon request to individuals with disabilities. (562) 938-3248 or wfdev@lbcc.edu
ASB
ARTS
May 2 Screening and Pastry Party “Let Them Eat Cake” is a movie that will screen in LAC T1200 on Saturday at 7 p.m. featuring a pastry tasting party and KCRW radio host Evan Kleiman. Local bakeries plus LBCC chef Pierre Jues will be featured. Tickets range from $7 to $20 and can be purchased at VikingFilmEvents.org
May 14 -24 “Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime” A British comedy murder mystery performed by the students of Performing Arts Department. For tickets and more information, visit lbcc.edu/tdf
WITHDRAWAL
May 4 Students who wish to withdraw from classes have untill Monday.
April 30, 2015
SOUNDWAVE
May 14 KCTY and KLBC present live music at LAC on Thursday from 10 a.m- 4 p.m. Featuring Justine Abigail, Apparition Railway, LBCC Jazz Big Band among others. Sound Wave live on KCTY.org and KLBC.org and youtube
Jon Peacock/Viking
Ashley Martinez-Munoz and Gabriel Islas shield their faces from the scorching sun while walking by the A Building at LAC on Wednesday, April 29. Temperatures reached 94 degrees and are expected to cool off by the weekend into the 70s. BRAIN FITNESS
Lifetime learning center for brain fitness A computer program to help maximize memory and improve five other vital brain functions in PCC FF108. No previous computer experience is required for the class. Class offered to adults 50 and over every Monday and Wednesday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Cost is $45 a person to be paid by May 8 or $35 per person if someone brings a friend or relative. Registration fee may be mailed to lifetime learning center, senior studies No class on Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day. bnorberg@lbcc.edu or call Beverly Norberg at (562) 938-3047 or Rosemary Lewallen, at (562) 400-3724 or email her at rsmrywrrn@ hotmail.com VETERANS CLUB
May 16 Memorial Day freedom fair The Veterans Club will host its annual memorial fair in LAC Veterans Stadium. Admission is free and open to the public. The event organizers hope to bring the students, employees and the community together.
SYMPOSIUM
VIKING VOYAGER
The members of DAAP (Development of Afro American Professionals) present Professional Shades of B.L.A.C.K (Black Leaders Accolades Culture and Knowledge) at LAC on Friday, May 15, from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. in T1200,
Free campus-to-campus shuttles for students and employees Runs every 30 minutes. Arrival and departure times are estimated. Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday: No service Passengers must present an ID with ASB sticker or employee ID card upon boarding the shuttle.
SPRING SING
May 22 Music and dance LBCC and ASB presents the 64th annual night of music and dance in the LAC Auditorium on Friday at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $5 pre-sale and $7 at the door. Proceeds benefit LBCC Foundation scholarships. lbcc.orgsync.com/News or lbcc. edu/studentlife Teila Robertson to trobertson@lbcc.edu or call (562) 938-4978 CAMPUS POLICE
LBCC phones, dial 4910 cell phones, (562) 435-6711 or 911 police emergency from campus phone, 9-911 Long Beach Police Department (562) 938- 4807 or (562) 510- 4807 TEXT ALERT
The fair will showcase Army fitness test graded by Army drill sergeants, Marine Corps combat fitness tests, eating contests, inflatable obstacle course, carnival games and other activities.
LBCC offers a text-based emergency notification service for mobile phones. In the event of an emergency, subscribers will be alerted in real-time on important campus safety and security information Participation must be made by the account holder.
For more information email lbccvetsclub@gmail.com
For support, text HELP to 55155 (ALERTU) or email support@alertu.org
HOME SPORTS
Friday, May 1 Baseball Orange Coast at 2.p.m Saturday, May 2 Baseball Orange Coast at 11 a.m. May 14 LBCC Foundation Athletics Associates golf tournament 32nd annual golf tournament at Recreation Park Golf Course in Long Beach. All proceeds from the event benefit the LBCC department of athletics. Registration cost is $200 per person or $750 for a team of four. Registrations done by May 1 will be entered into an early-bird drawing for dinner for eight and a duffy electric boat ride. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. at the course followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m. A shotgun start is scheduled for 1 p.m. Long-time supporters of LBCC athletics Suzie Atwood and August “Augie” Luuga will be honored at the tournament dinner. People may visit lbccvikings.com/golf. for more information.
OPINION
April 30, 2015
11
CITY VIEWS
In honor of Earth Day, what are you doing to help the planet? If recycling, what are you recycling? By Tyisha Ali and Irina Nizovtseva on Monday, April 27, at the LAC
Traemar Simpson, 21, Business management major “I recycle cans and bottles and positive energy. I want more people to live and be happy.”
Tiffany Mejia, 18, Political science major “I always save my water bottle then take them to be recycled and I donate.”
Malachi Curry, 18, International business major “I pick up trash on campus and I recycle bottles.”
Carlos Lopez, 19, Undeclared major “I recycle bottles and cans mostly when I can.”
Sarai Henrique, 21, Business administration major “I’m trying to convince my mom to invest in more canteen bottles instead of the plastic bottles.”
James Moyer, 20, Biology science major “I ride my bike. Unless I have to go pick up my sisters from school, I ride my bike and I live in Gardena so it’s a nice ride.”
Cierra Comfort, 19, Biology major “I recycle bottles and boxes and we clean up the beaches in our neighborhood.”
Marcella Alvarado, 19, Undeclared major “When I was in high school, we went on community walks and pick up trash and we recycle at my house.”
EDITORIAL
Drivers find creative solutions to old problems The automobile is an American symbol of independence, but on campus, it has become the symbol of inconvenience. “Looking for parking” has become one of the most popular excuses to be late to class. Students who drive to the college have few options when it comes to parking, as both campuses pose unique obstacles. At the LAC, designated parking exists in the five-level parking structure or on the lot behind Veterans Stadium. The parking structure “fills up early,” Arely Corona, 18, a biology major, said, “If I get there around 7:30, I can park
on level 3 or 4, but after 8, I can only park on the top level.” Unlike the structure, Veterans Stadium lot has plenty of room, but it’s a walk, students say. According to Google Maps, the A Building is located about 0.7 miles from the lot. Students must decide between searching for a spot in the structure and getting a sure spot at Veterans Stadium, making for a sure walk to class. It’s a known fact that exercise relieves stress, and as many students have found out, parking creates it. By simply parking at Veterans Stadium, students could
rid themselves of the daily battle over spots in the structure and allow for a healthy release of dopamine by walking. Who wants to sit all day anyway, between cars seats and desk chairs? The stroll from Veterans Stadium to class could actually be enjoyable. Chasen Landry, 20, a communications major, found his own solution to parking. “Last semester I bought a parking pass and parked at Veterans Stadium. This semester, I realized I can park on Centralia Street, which is outside the ticket zoning area. Either way I’d have to walk a half mile to
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
they will get a chance to even become part of the ASB Cabinet. And we highly encourage it. We notice that students always are trying to make a change, but never know how to approach the situation. Here’s your chance. We do a lot that goes unnoticed, but that’s OK, we’re not in it for the glory. But if you’d like to see the ASB Cabinet in action, come by one of our meetings at 8 a.m. on Fridays. Just email Maya Cardenas, Student Life coordinator and ASB adviser, at mcardenas@lbcc.edu and we’ll let you know which campus our meeting is on that week. LBCC is one of the top Community Colleges, and most diverse, in the country. Be active to hold up our reputation. Get involved to gain experience and make connections to help guide your future. Come out and vote during elections. Your voice is what keeps us motivated. Samwell Favela, 24, ASB secretary
ed drop-off zones. At the LAC, students are commonly dropped curbside on Faculty Avenue, which is not a designated zone, or even at the bus inlets, which is completely illegal. The LAC designated drop-off zone is located off Clark Avenue in front of the parking structure. The PCC has a designated drop-off on PCH between buildings CC and LL. The parking struggle is real. Some student drivers will show up early, some will walk, and some will go beyond ticket zones. Still, some will be ever-late.
VIKING STAFF
ASB urges voter turnout
They call us student leaders, but really the only thing we’re leading is the voice of the students. People like to think that Associated Student Body folks are in charge and have some kind of authority, but in every decision we make, we have the benefits of the students helping us guide our choices. Our individual voice is really the voice for the people. So when student body elections comes around, this is why it is important to come out and vote. It is up to the individual to choose the right candidate to not only share their voice, but have faith in them that the elected will show integrity and stick to what is right for the students. At the election polls, you won’t just find someone giving you a sheet to vote. You’ll be able to get the opportunity to speak to ASB officials about any concerns you have. Not only will the students receive the chance to make a difference at the polls this term, but
class. Now I save $30.” By finding creative solutions to everlasting issues, Landry and other students parking outside the no-parking zones are getting exercise and saving money. Parking is also tight at the PCC due to the extensive construction obstructing the lots. Also, 109 parking spots are scheduled to open upon completion of the construction projects, which should provide relief to student drivers. Parking is not the only problem. Some drivers who drop off students do not use the designat-
Editor in chief: Brandon Richardson Managing editor : Arieel Alcaraz Citystyle editor: Hunter King Sports editor: Will Ranos Advertising manager: Michal Olszewski Staff: Tyisha Ali Darel James Cindy Macias Kelly Mahaffey
Kelly Mahaffey Irina Nizovtseva Jon Peacock Sylvana Uribe
Adviser: Patrick McKean Photo and Online adviser: Chris Viola Retired photo adviser: Jim Truitt Student assistant: Charles Hall
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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 May 14, 28 and July 30. The Viking is published by Journalism 80, 81, 82, 83, 86, 87 and 88 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. The Viking is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges, the California Newspaper Publishers Association, Unity Journalists of Color and the California First Amendment Coalition. Printed by Beach Community Publishing. Delivery staff: PCC Student Life staff and Viking staff. The views expressed in the Viking do not reflect the views of the advisers, administration or the ASB. First copy free, each additional $1.
DANCE
12
April 30, 2015
Artistic director Lauren Hall gathers the dancers after warming up for the show Friday, April 24, in the Auditorium.
A nursing major, Brittney Murphy, 19, performs “Shackled and Forgotten,” a dance piece choreographed by Shaquan Ferguson. “Thank you Shaquan for such a wonderful piece to perform,” Murphy said.
Candace Salud, 19, a biology major, jumps during her performance of “Can’t Buy My Love.” The dance piece was choreographed by Jeff Hendrix.
Movement of passion Story By Hunter King CityStyle Editor Photos By Cindy Macias Staff Photographer
Dances whirled back and forth across the stage in ecstatic anxiousness as they warmed up an hour before the start of the Spring Dance Ensemble in Concert in LAC’s Auditorium on Friday April 24. The ensemble ran for a total of three days from April 24–26 featuring a variety of dances including contemporary Chinese, modern and jazz. Choreographer and teacher Lauren Hall thanked the dancers for their kindness, respect and passion before the ensemble began and said, “the show is now in your hands.” The doors opened at 8 p.m. and the auditorium was moderately filled. The ensemble opened with “Heartstring,” a contemporary
Chinese dance in which dances performed with red strings representing the connection to the heart. “Can’t Buy Me Love” was choreographed by Jeff Hendrix and played music by Michael Buble. “It takes two” was well received by the audience, featuring a total of 19 dancers and music including The Fresh Prince, Janet Jackson and DJ EZ Rock. “Shackled and Forgotten” featured music by Delta Rae. “Siri Says” made the audience laugh as Siri’s voice commanded the dancers to perform a variety of different dances. After the intermission, a video by Arlene Brackett and Dorian Warmsley paid tribute to Sheree King, who is retiring from the college and dance program after 30 years of service. The dancing picked up again with “Evolve,” where lizard-like creatures collaborated with dancers mimicking flies.
“Suspicion” was a suspenseful piece that ended more like a WWE smack-down where all but one dancer were knocked to the ground in a rhythmic battle with chairs. Dancers in full camouflaged fatigues perform in “Onomatopoeia” honoring women in the military. The night finished with “Table for Two,” telling a love story over a lifetime, leaving the audience warmhearted. After the performance, dance major Brandy Factory, 20, said, “I enjoy performing for LBCC very much. It’s given me a chance to grow both academically and physically, and has pushed me to work harder as both a performer and in my dance technique classes.” The audience was overall pleased with the wide variety of dance styles and music. The Fall Dance Ensemble is scheduled Nov. 20–22.
Brandy Factory, 20, a dance major, performs “Siri Says” during the Dance Ensemble on Friday, April 24. The show ran from Friday, April 24 to Sunday, April 26.