Vikings barely miss state finals See Sports on Page 8
Follow @ lbccvikingnews Volume 87, Issue 12
March 13, 2014
Published Since 1927
Food choices at the PCC are few Truck and Campus Store are only options. By Madison Salter Staff Writer
Liliana Duarte/Viking AMBIDEXTROUS ARITHMETIC: Kevin Ryan, an LBCC math professor, was recently awarded the Exceptional Student Success Award by the college. Ryan, who is ambidextrous, was nominated by his students for the award.
Math prof awarded again By Liliana Duarte Staff Writer
Math professor Kevin Ryan has won the Exceptional Student Success Award, an honor created especially for him to recognize his second Student Success Award. The awards celebrate LBCC employees nominated by students. Each year, students are encouraged to nominate one staff member and one faculty member who have contributed to their success. Ryan’s students shared positive things about him and his teaching skills. Claudia Limas, 20, an anthropology major, said she is taking Ryan’s calculus 2 course “for fun. “He’s awesome as a math professor. He’s really cool. You can
ask him anything and he encour- med psychology major, said, ages you not to be shy.” “I really like him. He’s very apOther students have taken all proachable, cheerful and supportthe courses Ryan has to offer. ive. He always has a good attitude Bryan Tomlin is one of those when he comes to class and a very students. Tomlin, 41, a nursing willing attitude to help and slow major, has taken four of Ryan’s down for the class if need be.” courses. Talking about how long he To m planned lin said, “He’s very approachable, cheerful on teach“He’ll take and supportive. He always has a ing, Ryan extra time, smiled he’ll stay good attitude.” and said, late and he -Faviolanny Rath “Until the comes on Pre-med psychology major day I die. Sundays I don’t for test reviews for like four or five know, until I retire for sure. I hope hours. He structures his lectures I never give it up. really well. He challenges us.” “I was Academic Senate presA few of his students said he ident here at LBCC for a year and doesn’t just teach, he cares about a half and it took me partly out the students’ success. of the classroom. I learned a lot Faviolanny Rath, 19, a pre- doing that, but I didn’t like that it
took me out of the classroom.” He also said that he has “no desire to be an administrator, ever.” Regarding his students, Ryan said, “When I see in the students’ eyes that they’ve always hated math and when they actually get it and smile. That sort of change in attitude, I absolutely love them smiling.” He said he learns from his students a lot. “I learn something new all the time. Not just about students, but about myself and better ways to teach, techniques that work, techniques that don’t work. I experiment all the time in class. I’m always trying to get better. “Being a part of this education career is a huge privilege,” he added.
gives them a chance to elect people with similar ideologies.” Ramirez also said he thinks LBCC should inform students more about upcoming elections. He said on his recent trip to Santa Monica Community College, various posters around campus encouraged students to vote. The Community Engagement Club will sponsor a candidate forum on Monday, March 17 from 5:30-8 p.m. at the LAC in T1200. Students and communi-
opposed by Virginia Baxter, executive director of the LBCC Foundation, for seat 5. Amber Gonzalez, 18, an herbology major, said, “I really don’t feel like my vote would make a difference, but people should vote if they want more out of the college.” Current Trustee Doug Otto is running for mayor of Long Beach. Otto was elected to the Board in 2004.
Voters to decide Board, city posts on April 8 By Madison Salter Staff Writer Elections for the LBCC Board of Trustees, mayor, city attorney, city auditor, city prosecutor, council seats and the Long Beach Unified School District Board will be Tuesday, April 8. LBCC Board seats 1, 3, and 5 are all up for election. Brandon Ramirez, 19, a health care administration major, said, “People should vote because it
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ty members will be able to hear candidates for the LBCC Board of Trustees and the school board answer questions about plans for the future of Long Beach. Current Trustee and Board President Jeffrey Kellogg is opposed by Marshall Blesofsky, a retired LBCC allied health professor. Stella Ursua, a business owner, is opposed by Sunny Zia, a civil engineer, for seat 3. Gregory Slaughter, a retired LBCC administration of justice teacher, is
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Hungry PCC students must continue to seek relief from the bright green Ideal Foods Truck parked by the trailers as the campus will continue without a Food Court until Spring 2015. The Campus Store sells premade sandwiches, but the truck may provide a fresh-cooked meal option. Celsa Penaloca, 22, an animal health science major, said, “Sometimes I wish there were more food resources on campus. It’s hard when you’re in a hurry between classes.” Sherif Saleh, vice president of operations for Ideal Foods Trucks, said the company has been serving students at the PCC for about two years. The trucks are subject to food inspections at random, Saleh said. The most recent inspection was in January. Saleh said no critical findings were discovered and all trucks are up to proper codes. Kim Sysawang, 20, a psychology major, said, “I never have cash to buy food from the truck. It’s sad. I’ve been here for two years and I hate having to buy sandwiches from the bookstore.” The trucks are not always able to accept debit or credit cards. Students are urged to pay with cash to avoid any conflicts. The Ideal Foods Truck does not have set operating hours. However, if students are looking for a more reliable food source, the Campus Store is open Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fridays 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
No classes on March 18
LBCC classes will not meet on Flex Day on Tuesday, March 18. No services will be available on either campus, college officials said.
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NEWS
2
March 13, 2014
Businessman brings bitcoins to the city
By Richard Mejia Staff Writer With the always-trending innovations in technology, only a few creations have the ability to alter the everyday life of all people and on the cusp of that life-changing ability is the emerging digital currency known as bitcoin. Bitcoin is the first decentralized digital currency that allows people who use it to make purchases and enter contracts with their programmable money. The innovation has sparked minds all over the world, but in particular, in Long Beach. LBCC communications major and entrepreneur Jose Sandoval, 22, has taken the initiative to invest in bitcoin and to help others thrive in it. Sandoval created his own small business, The BitPros, with the goal of having all small businesses in Long Beach accept bitcoin as a form of payment. Sandoval said, “Bitcoin is sometimes too technical for many businesses and people interested in getting involved in it. I thought it would be a great opportunity to make a name for ourselves and also educate businesses on the
benefits of bitcoin.” Through The BitPros, Sandoval will assist businesses to set up their virtual accounts and educate the staff on how to operate the required software to accept and maintain bitcoin. In addition, he also plans to help businesses spread the word of their new accepted form of payment through social media and other forms of advertising. For the past few months Sandoval has spent countless hours visiting small businesses across the city, pitching his vision and attempting to convince them that accepting bitcoin will prove beneficial to their establishments. In addressing the technical and practical bitcoin needs of small businesses, Sandoval aims to enlighten the City of Long Beach in what seems to be the next great technological advancement. “The widespread adoption of bitcoin won’t just prove to be great for the individual businesses, but it’ll bring Long Beach to a step closer to the next digital age.” Criminal justice major Alfredo Castaneda, 23, said “It’s great that he had the motivation to go through his plan and decide to work and invest in something he
Richard Mejia/Viking VIRTUAL MONEY: Communications major Jose Sandoval holds a bitcoin on his smartphone that can be accepted by scanning the quick response code. Through starting his own bitcoin business, Sandoval hopes to give small business owners in Long Beach access to the type of digital currency.
truly believes in.” In his highly motivated and ambitious efforts, Sandoval is out to prove that the time for the small businesses of Long Beach to advance their technological efforts is now. Sandoval said, “I envision Long Beach being a pioneer in bitcoin because of the many small
business owners in the area. They could all use some extra profits not having to spend (money) on ridiculous credit card fees.” Even though the fall of former bitcoin exchange company Mt. Gox has led to a fall in bitcoin prices and has stirred up much controversy, Sandoval is still op-
Rain-related fire alarm empties the T Building And flooding closes LAC success center. By Paul Ingvaldsen Staff Writer
The harsh call of a fire alarm emptied the T Building at the LAC on Thursday Feb. 27, at 10 a.m. as fire trucks rolled up to LBCC for the second time in a week. TV production teacher DaniSue Dittmarr said, “I nearly jumped out of my skin.” Capt. Robert Cheng of the Long Beach Fire Department said, “This was a malfunctioning alarm. Anytime a fire alarm goes off anywhere, we always respond.” Benjamin Diaz/Viking LBCC’s archaic drainage system, brand-new buildings and FALSE ALARM: Students and employees evacuate the T Building during a fire alarm on Thursday, campus construction have com- Feb. 27. The school’s fire alarm technician, Dustin Blackburn, said, “It looks like a humidity level set off the smoke detector,” as he was investigating the “cause of the false alarm.” bined to create a host of rain-reCenter. lated problems. Writing and reading teachTwo approaching storms er Jennifer Rodden said, “Wadumped several more inches of ter came much-needthrough the ed water on “This was a malfunctioning ceiling. Fathe parched cilities sent S o u t h e r n alarm. Anytime a fire alarm workers over C a l i f o r - goes off anywhere, we always to dry everynia landrespond.” thing out.” scape last The cenweekend ter reopened as mainte-Capt. Robert Cheng M o n d a y , nance staff Long Beach Fire Department March 3. prepared for Associate Director of Comflooding and other difficulties. munications and College AdStanding outside the elevavancement Richard Garcia said, tor at the T building, fire alarm technician Dustin Blackburn “There was a false alarm because said, “I’m investigating the cause of a faulty smoke detector that of the false alarm. It looks like a was fixed. There are no other humidity level set off the smoke problems. “Minor leaks were in builddetector.” ings G, T and Q. Pumps ran in the basement Miguel Espinoza/Viking “Only the E Building was of the Food Court. “Closed due FLOOD DAMAGE: A construction worker who did not give his to flooding” read a sign outside closed temporarily, with minimal name works on fixing the flooding situation between Buildings M and L after the rain Thursday, Feb. 27. the Writing and Reading Success damage, mainly the carpets.”
timistic. As he said, “In spite of the Mt. Gox collapse, bitcoin will continue to thrive in the free market. People wouldn’t stop using the Internet if Yahoo goes down.” For more information regarding The BitPros and Sandoval’s bitcoin ventures, feel free to visit thebitpros.com.
$40M in projects continue By Richard Mejia Staff Writer
For several years, the PCC has undergone construction that has caused obstructions like restricted parking and scattered classrooms. Students will soon have the choice to go full-time at either campus. The new fitness center and 14 wet labs were completed in early 2013. The PCC aims to complete its current construction of buildings AA and BB in late August 2015. The buildings will house classrooms for a full range of disciplines and the economic and workforce development and administrative offices. The construction budget for the new building is $25.15 million. The other on going construction project is the GG building. The building will contain services like financial aid and admissions and records. The construction budget for the new GG building is $15.48 million. The PCC Associate Vice President Meena Singhal said, “It’s an exciting time for our campus as students will be able to complete more courses and in turn, boost morale. The campus is positioning to offer a full range of classes.” The PCC plans to expand the electrical program, shifting it away from the LAC. “A feasible study and research is underway for the JJ building at the PCC to determine if the building can accommodate all fuels required for the electrical program,” Singhal said.
NEWS
March 13, 2014
Westboro Church protests in Lakewood Counter-protesters also show at churches and Lakewood High.
Donors give life March is American Red Cross month and LBCC students are doing their part by donating blood. The PCC sponsored a blood drive for the American Red Cross on Wednesday, March 5. The foundation reaches out to both LBCC campuses more often during March through May. They also emphasize the importance of blood donation as a remembrance for civil rights activist Cesar Chavez, whose March 31 birthday is also a day of civil service. Elva Cisneros, 21, an undecided major, said, “I had a family member who passed away from cancer. Me being here today and donating blood is a way of helping out.” Fifty-four donations were collected at the PCC. Undeclared major Linda Camou, 19, said, “It feels good to donate blood, knowing that with all the different types of blood that are out there, you never know if
your type is the one that can help someone in need. The process itself does not take much time and the little bit of time you give to donate will give someone else a lot more time to live.” Auto mechanics major Jose Gonzalez, 18, said, “I’ve seen how people who need blood can’t find any and I wanted to contribute. I’ve also heard that it’s good to give blood so you can make new (blood).” In Gonzalez’s case, a usable vein could not be located, so he was unable to donate. Senior account manager of the Long Beach Red Cross chapter Amy Papageorges explained the importance of donating. Papageorges said, “For every one person who donates blood, three people are helped. The earlier we hit on the importance of donation with students, the more longterm success we’ll see.” Another blood drive is scheduled for May 1 at the PCC. For more information regarding blood drives on campus or to set up an appointment to donate, people may call (800) REDCROSS or visit redcross.org
members picketed St. Timothy bearing anti-gay rhetoric signs like, “1 man 1 woman 4 life.” Westboro stated on their website their goal was to “show the people at St. Timothy Lutheran Church the narrow path to salvation if only they will put away their sins and obey.” The protesters against the Westboro group, numbering about 25-30 people, were wearing rainbow clothing and had signs bearing messages like, “God doesn’t hate God loves” and “God
members said they were there to protest that teachers and parents are not instructing youth in biblical teachings which would help them in the world today. The high school was notified by Westboro a month in advance that the group would be picketing By Kendall Harris the area. Lakewood High School Staff Writer let parents, employees and students know of the event on the The Kansas-based religious school website and urged them to group Westboro Baptist Church “ignore and avoid the displayed came to Lakewood in protest of signage and comments from anti-gay and anti-bible lifestyles Westboro.” March 2 and 3. More than 25 countThey were met by er-protesters rallied at the counter-protesters from “If their plan was to make a mockhigh school. the Lakewood and Long ery of our area then I plan on being Counter-protester and Beach area. Lakewood High School Former LBCC student there every step of the way to make a alumnus Hector Ramirez, Mariah Csepanyi, 28, said, mockery of them.” 26, said, “I think at some “Westboro Baptist Church point they need to realize -Mariah Csepanyi is coming to our neighthat people will want to Former LBCC student borhood. If their plan was take a stand toward their to make a mockery of our area hate-filled preaching. I underthen I plan on being there every is love.” Both churches still conducted stand that it’s their right to say step of the way to make a mockservices and tried to maintain a whatever they would like, but ery of them.” calm crowd. The protests lasted when they start to come after our Sunday morning the group about 30 minutes and were peacechildren, there is only so much we picketed three churches, St. Timful the whole time. can take.” othy Lutheran Church on WoodOn Monday, Westboro proCampus security, SWAT teams ruff Avenue, First United Methtested from 7:15-7:30 a.m. near and school safety were called in odist Church on Harvey Way Lakewood High School, on the case anything were to break out, and Bellflower and St. Pancratius corner of Bellflower Boulevard but the protests and picketing Catholic on Downey Avenue. and Centralia Avenue. Westboro ended peacefully. Around 10 a.m. Westboro
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Ana Maria Ramirez/Viking GIVING HOPE: Eli Tinajero, 25, a business administration major, donates blood to the American Red Cross at the PCC.
By Richard Mejia Staff Writer and Ana Maria Ramirez Staff Writer
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CITYSTYLE
4
March 13, 2014
Children visit House of Blues
By Thomasina Cotton Staff Writer
Miguel Espinoza/Viking ENHANCING KNOWLEDGE: Professor Scott Brueckner has received more than 1 million hits on his YouTube channel. His videos include titles such as, “Memory Tricks,” “Improving Listening Skills” and “Taking Better Lecture Notes.”
Prof gets million hits
By Brittany Lieberman Managing Editor
YouTube fame isn’t just for comical or performing acts anymore. LBCC professor Scott Brueckner’s 14 YouTube videos have received more than 1 million views from around the world within the last three years. The videos focus on memory elasticity and enhancing the study habits of today’s college students. Brueckner was hired as a fulltime professor in 1998 and continues to teach Learn 11 Academic Success, a 3-unit course, now
online-only starting this Spring. “Reaching this many viewers was unexpected. It’s great to see people from far-off places like Thailand, Iran and Australia benefiting from the videos,” Brueckner said. Brueckner said the study tips and tricks were so popular that students ask him to post more frequently. “Students told me they were more confident academically. Certain professors will even send their kids to watch the videos.” His most popular video is titled “Improving Listening Skills” and has 282,050 views and 1,852
likes so far. Brueckner said a lot of students aren’t equipped with the proper study skills they need to succeed in a college environment. “Basic study skills are in demand. If you don’t know how to prepare for tests or use homework to your advantage, you won’t succeed,” he said. Brueckner encourages students struggling with organizational, listening or studying issues to take his class. “All information given in workshops is a sampler of Learn 11. This course is built to make a lasting change in a student’s life.”
The PCC welcomed the return of the House of Blues event on Thursday, Feb. 27, with the Blues School House Band and local elementary schools for the seventh year in celebration of Black History Month. About 600 fourth and fifth grade students from Signal Hill, Alvarado and Whittier and newcomer to the event Roosevelt Elementary were on the PCC for the festivities. The band took students on a musical journey that explored the roots of blues music and its influence on contemporary music. Students cheered as the event began with a rendition of John Mayer’s 2006 song, “Waiting on the World to Change.” At the end of the song, lead singers Lamont White and Meloney Collins proceeded to narrate stories of defining moments in African-American history as guitarist Gary Melvin, bassist Eric Baines and drummer Moyes Lucas accompanied. Students were told about the African slave trade and how slaves sang work songs and spirituals to secretly communicate with each other. White and Collins explained how the end of slavery expanded African-American music and how the blues were born with
artists like singer and slide guitarist Robert Johnson. White said, “The blues can be sad, but it can also be upbeat.” The audience was encouraged to participate in musical chants like, “Hey. Hey. The blues is alright!” The students responded in unison. Donavan, a fifth grader at Alvarado Elementary, said, “The music was funky. I grew up listening to that kind of music.” Steven Chan, the PCC Student Life secretary and a business administration major, 21, said, “The band was great. Everyone was having a good time.” After the show and a lunch break on the lawn, the fourth and fifth grade guests went to the library to view the House of Blues display that contained a guitar, original blues records and album covers of blues and jazz musicians. Early morning rain created the possibility the outdoor event would be canceled. ASB adviser Derek Oriee said, “I am very happy with the turnout. It was the largest amount of students ever in attendance to the event. At about 6:45 in the morning we had one more downpour of rain while we were setting up and that was it. I’m an optimist. I always knew we would be safe after 10 a.m.”
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CITYSTYLE
March 13, 2014
KCTY radio hosts win award
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By Ana Maria Ramirez Staff Writer
Miguel Espinoza/Viking DEDICATION: Lavonna Miller as a member of the ensemble, Gaelyn Wilkie as Eunice and Amara Phelps as Blanche, from left, all theatre majors, perform on opening night Thursday, March 6, for the theater production “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
Cast dedicates ‘Streetcar’ By Brittany Lieberman Managing Editor
“A Streetcar Named Desire” drew standing ovations on opening night, Thursday, March 6, in LBCC’s Auditorium. “Streetcar” revolves around Blanche, a Southern belle whose delusions of grandeur and drinking intensify when she realizes her youth has slipped away. Blanche comes from Laurel, Miss. to her sister Stella’s apartment in New Orleans after her family’s Southern plantation is mysteriously “lost.” Blanche is played by Amara Phelps, who previously played Judeen in LBCC’s “A Delightful Quarantine” last Fall.
Sundra Lun, 19, a psychology major, said, “It makes me want to join theatre. I loved it and will definitely attend all the plays this semester.” Director Anthony Carriero said actors came in to start rehearsing “Streetcar” two weeks before the Spring semester started. He said “They did 140 hours of rehearsal total and acted like professionals. In my 14 years at LBCC, this is one of the plays I am most proud of.” Carriero sums up “Streetcar” as what happens when two opposing forces of equal power clash. “Blanche and her counterpart Mitch, played by Joshua Helms, both want what they can’t give each other.”
Niki Tumanyan, 19, a theatre major, said, “The story was passionate and well played. The actors did a great job.” The theatre crew dedicated the production to LBCC student Jeremy Zazueta-Ruiz, who died in a car accident in December. Zazueta-Ruiz was part of the LBCC theatre family off and on for two years and performed in the theatre’s one-act play series and “A Long Bridge Over Deep Waters.” The production will continue March 13 through March 15 at 8 p.m. and the final performance will be on Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. Presale tickets cost $10 while tickets at the door are $12.
awards a few years ago. It was the only two-year school nominated and the only station from the Radio class KCTY students West Coast. They lost to Tulane did their happy dance and cheered University, a very expensive prias they won the global station of vate four-year institution whose the year award from RadioFlag. station has probably 100 times Awards are decided by a panel their budget.” of judges that includes music inAbout 25-30 students are endustry professionals, local artists, rolled in each R-TV 25 class. AlRadioStar blog writers and Radio- most all of them have at least one Flag interns. show. The remaining students RadioFlag is a live radio sta- work on music, production and tion with a free social app avail- other elements of station operaable on iPhone, Blackberry, Win- tion. dows mobile Amanand also on “My experience on the radio da Caldwell, the web. an Enhas been very positive. KCTY 21, The radio glish major, station pro- gives you the freedom to do said, “I feel motes college what you want or care to do. ” that KCTY radio and deserved the -Liz Waite award as we community Radio show host work DJs from all very over the world so that they may hard as a group effort. It was very be noticed. This is done with the cool to see my name on the award sole purpose for listeners to enjoy list. and discover the variety of radio “One of the pros is the huge shows that are offered around the freedom of speech that we have. world and talents that others pos- Of course we must follow the Fedsess. eral Communications Comission KCTY co-hosts Liz Waite rules. and Derek Shultz won the global “The one challenge we have award for best variety show for here is that our equipment doesn’t their “Faces of Radio” program. always work or run properly and The contest was conducted in makes it very difficult to run my the Fall. show. Waite said, “My experience on “I see myself working behind the radio has been very positive. the scenes at a radio station or as KCTY gives you the freedom to a DJ.” do what you want or care to do. I Last year, KCTY DJs stepped don’t do well with rules, but here up their social networking efforts. there’s a lot of creative freedom to Joanna Price, also known as DJ be successful. TripleP, 21, is a communications “One of many goals I have is major and training director at to one day own my own radio sta- KCTY’s sister station KLBC, but tion.” last year she was on the awardRadio and TV teacher Ken- winning team at KCTY. neth Borgers said, “Only KCTY “We posted on RadioFlag, was nominated last semester. Facebook and pretty much had a KLBC was one of six finalists for lot of people tuning in. Word of global station of the year award mouth helps a lot.” in the annual new music weekly
Darel Jones/Viking READY TO ROCK: the LBCC Rock and Roll Band of 12 members rehearses in G126 at the LAC on Tuesday, March 11.
Band preparing for Spring shows By Brandon Richardson Staff Writer
Plugged in and turned up, the LBCC Rock and Roll Band tunes up for its upcoming Spring performances. The Rock and Roll Band is now in its second semester. Lead singer Renee Davis, 20, a music major, said, “When you play in a big band, you get covered up and it’s hard to hear everyone’s individual parts but with a smaller ensemble it’s a lot more fun and there’s actually more energy. And I think everyone has closer relationships with each other.” The student musicians have full control of the music they play. They vote on the songs, construct their own parts if the song
does not already accommodate their particular instrument, and practice songs in the order of their choosing based on what they feel they need most. Viking Show Band Director Roger Przytulski said, “We thought maybe we could add this element into Viking Show Band so that we could showcase some of our more elite musicians in the department. We want it to be very much their band. We’re more like moderators to the group.” Currently, the band is comprised of musicians and vocalists who have a background in classical or jazz music in the LBCC music department. Przytulski said, “Although we may eventually open up schoolwide auditions for this band, since it is new, we really just wanted to
keep it within the music department.” The group includes an acoustic guitar, a bass guitar, a drummer, an entire horn section and multiple vocalists. The group is rehearsing songs ranging from artists such as Carrie Underwood to Macklemore. When talking about live performances, Davis said, “It’s fun. It’s definitely a rush to be in front of so many people and get to sing for them. I mean, half of them appreciate it. It’s rewarding.” The band is planning a gig at the Long Beach Town Center stage across from the food court, a show in the Nordic Lounge and a performance at pride teen night in Downtown Long Beach. For more information people may email the Show Band adviser at rprzytulski@lbcc.edu.
Ana Maria Ramirez/Viking EXPERIENCE: Liz Waite, 21, a communications major, hosts her radio show in the G Building at the LAC. Waite recently won an award from the rating agency RadioFlag for best variety.
NEWS
6
March 13, 2014
Kiosks bring new info Advertisements on five racks on the LAC will create more revenue.
Miguel Espinoza/Viking HEAVY METAL: Tim Shoemaker, professor of sheet metal fabrication at the PCC, helps Shaun Vanderpol, 26, use the press brake to bend sheet metal. The program consolidated in 2013, eliminating several classes and programs that offered associate degrees.
Welding program takes form By Alejandro Nicolas Staff Writer
The department head of the metal fabrication program insists his program still exists at the PCC. Tim Shoemaker said, “We’re still here but we changed our name. People think that manufacturing has left the U.S. and never coming back. I think that’s false. We’re in an energy boom right now. The largest manufacturer in the world is still the U.S.” The metal fabrication program used to be known as the welding and sheet metal program and recently consolidated after the 2013 cutbacks, eliminating several classes and programs that offered associate degrees. The program now offers certificates and in some cases just classes. The program used to be geared toward the construction industry, often times correlating with the city of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety. LBCC Board Trustee Roberto Uranga said, “There are still classes being offered.”
The metal fabrication technology program has around 100 students taking classes. Shoemaker is the only full-time teacher and has been at LBCC for nine years. “At the college itself I have seen some positive change with the hiring of a new dean of career technical education, Mr. Ken Starkman.” The department has a shop located in the PCC’s Building II. More than a dozen machines, high ceilings and large windows letting in tremendous amounts of light make the department seem more like an exotic job site rather than a Community College classroom. “We help our students prepare for the real world by offering them an opportunity to apply to the Sheet Metal Workers Join Apprenticeship Training Committee,” Shoemaker said. Although, according to Politico Magazine, “It’s not likely that the U.S. will actually become energy-independent in the foreseeable future, but it will certainly become energy a-lot-less-depen-
Miguel Espinoza/Viking SPARKS FLY: Jesus Rivera, 21, a sheet metal major, welds tubing.
dent.” Shoemaker said, “I think manufacturing is returning in a new way, requiring technical skills with opportunities for computer numerical control and robotic technicians working and operating machinery.” Classes are being conducted every semester, focusing on tube bending, plasma cutting and taking sheets of metal stock and shaping it and forming it, which is a necessary skill in today’s man-
ufacturing industry. The classes include sheet metal pattern development, layout, equipment operation, fabrication and field installation of heating ventilation and air conditioning systems and introduction to architectural sheet metal industry. The courses are 2-4 units, allowing for the same curriculum taught during the day to be offered at night to allow for full-time day and part-time night school.
Election for mayor features 3 with LBCC ties
FROM PAGE 1
Miguel Espinoza/Viking LINING UP FOR VOTES: Long Beach mayoral candidates from left are current LBCC Trustee Doug Otto, Jana Shields, former LBCC Trustee Gerrie Schipske, Steven Mozena, Bonnie Lowenthal, Richard Camp, former LBCC speech teacher and public relations manager Robert Garcia and Damon Dunn. Candidate Eric Rock did not attend. The Long Beach Museum of Art and the League of Women Voters hosted the forum Monday, Feb. 24.
Some of his opponents include former Board member Gerrie Schipske and former LBCC public relations manager Robert Garcia. Mayra Barbara, 24, a business major, said, “I think more people need to be aware about the importance of voting. They should want to make a difference in the way things are run.” Voter registration forms can be found at city halls, post offices, the DMV or online at ss.ca.gov. To be a registered voter students must be a U.S. citizen, a California resident, at least 18 years old. Students who are already registered do not have to re-register unless they have moved or changed their name or political party. The deadline to register to vote is Monday, March 24.
By Ana Marie Ramirez Staff Writer AdCamp, Inc. installed five new kiosks on the LAC to make students aware of campus surroundings, news events, sports and other important information. Mario Mariscal, 19, an undecided major, said, “I have only read the newspaper once. The title of the heading of the paper caught my attention. It was regarding the car accident that happened during Spring semester 2013. I was unaware of all the newsracks on campus.” Kimmsann Em, 27, a business administration major, said, “I pick up a paper when I pass a newsrack and sit down to read.” It costs money to have new stands installed. Richard Garcia, associate director of communi-
“The college generates $75 per month in fees from AdCamp, Inc. to host the news stands on campus.” -Richard Garcia
Director of community relations
ty relations and marketing, said, “The college generates $75 per month in fees from AdCamp, Inc. to host the newsstands on campus. “The kiosks were purchased and installed by AdCamp, Inc. during the 2013 Fall semester.” Jose River, 35, a nursing major, said, “There’s lots of interesting stories that grab my attention. “I tend to read only the first page of the newspaper and move on with my daily activities.” Dan Zusman, owner of AdCamp, Inc. said, “There is no cost to utilize the kiosks at the campus.” Zusman also said there are recycling bins at the bottom of every kiosk and the used papers are usually taken to the nearest recycling center unless the campus says otherwise. “The price to run an ad on one of our kiosks depends on multiple factors, therefore pricing varies. “The PCC does not have any new kiosks at the time. It’s up to that campus if they want to install any,” Zusman said. The new kiosks are in addition to the 50 regular Viking newsracks at the LAC and 25 at the PCC.
IMAGES
March 13, 2014
Culture of pollination
Story by Paul Ingvaldsen Staff Writer Photos by Brandon Richardson Staff Writer
A golden brown butterfly arch, the Gulf Fritillary and flits upward and soars down, the Sienna Sulfur. If we don’t riding a current of air inside a provide caterpillar food they mesh canopy in the PCC Hor- won’t be around.” ticulture garden. Ochoa said most adult Eventually it lands on butterflies have a lifespan of a hanging ivy plant, slowly only a few weeks. Migratory opening and closing its wings, species, like the Monarch, basking in the sun. Inside the never make an entire migraenclosure students observe tion, but stop, lay eggs and die exotic orange, red and bright after traveling only part way. purple flowering plants arOchoa said, “If you don’t ranged around two comfort- have food for the caterpillars able-looking wooden chairs. the adults can’t find a place to The PCC butterfly house lay their eggs and the whole is a place where the flying in- generation dies.” sects grow from eggs to larvae Horticulture technician to cocoon to adult butter- Brian Hastie said, “Monarchs flies, within need a buttera sprawl- “The butterflies are here fly freeway. We ing garden an interjust to propagate cer- need complete state of plants.” with trees, tain plants.” Hastie said chickens, a the insects start stream and an out in Cana-Jessica Gutierrez old-fashioned Horticulture major da and go part hand pump. way. Their eggs Horticulture major Jessica hatch, become caterpillars, Gutierrez, 20, sat in a white mature and continue the jourgazebo in the garden doing ney. homework. This process occurs severShe explained, “Some spe- al times during a single migracies of plants have specific pol- tion to Michoacan, Mexico, linators like hummingbirds, one of the largest Monarch bats, bees and even butterflies. sanctuaries in the world. The butterflies are here just to From Mexico a new generapropagate certain plants.” tion arises, returning in stages Talking about the role of to Canada. bees and other pollinators, Hastie said the public can horticulture teacher Jorge provide food for butterflies by Ochoa said, “Bees are an im- planting certain varieties, but ported species. They’ve been the idea is the plant gets eaten. selected to be docile and He said, “You’ll be hapweak. We tend to forget the py when you see your plant butterflies are part of the city. full of holes because you’ll be “We have three main types helping the next generation of of butterflies here, the Mon- butterflies.”
Students gather around teacher Jorge Ochoa as he tells them what work needs to be done during a class session in the garden at the PCC on Tuesday, March 4.
Alejandro Mercado, 19, a horticulture major, prunes a hops vine.
Vicki Mallard, 55, a horticulture major, struggles to remove an umbrella plant.
Horticulture majors Rhiannon Camm, 32, and Willy Acededo, 26, work onthe South American Blue Sage.
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WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
March 13, 2014
D.A. Phillips/Viking FAST BREAK: Conference most valuable player Abbey Goodsell heads for an open lay-up. She finished the game with 19 points at Ventura on Saturday, March 8.
Vikes’ historic season ends at No. 1 Ventura
Team just misses going to state finals by 9 points. By D.A. Phillips Contributing Writer
One game shy of reaching its first state championship since 1988, the LBCC women’s basketball team lost to the host Ventura Pirates, 90-81, on Saturday, March 8. Free throws would prove to be detrimental for the Vikings as they made 10-14 while the Pirates connected on 25-35.
LBCC’s record-breaking seaLBCC’s first team All-Amer- 13 rebounds, came out strong in son ended with the fourth-round ican freshman guard Abbey the second half. Ventura put the playoff loss. Goodsell led all scorers with 14 pressure on the Vikes, getting to Vikes’ sophomore Crystal points in the first half and was 4-8 the free throw line 25 times while Cockerhan picked up two quick from behind the three-point line. taking only 26 shots from the field fouls in the first 90 secin the second half. onds of the game, which “We look to be making another run for In the game, LBCC resulted in the 6-2 cenout-rebounded Ventura, state next year.” ter only playing four 46-30. minutes in the first half. Taafua said, “Our -Pablo Martinez Assistant coach defense was poor and To make matters worse, LBCC sophomore guard we could have executed Shakeena Benton went down 30 Vikings Coach Mike Ander- better.” She finished with a douseconds later with an ankle injury. son said, “In the first half of the ble-double with 20 points and 10 The Pirates jumped out to an early game, we did not have our best rebounds. 17-6 lead. five on the floor.” With a good returning class LBCC stormed back to trail, The Pirates, led by sophomore and some good recruiting, assis46-45, at the half. Adrianne Sloboh’s 24 points and tant coach Pablo Martinez said,
Mt. San Jacinto and Pasadena fall in SoCal regional playoffs
Center gets tripledouble in first-round LBCC victory.
rebounds and 10 blocks. The overall combined efforts of the Vikings made quick work of Mt. San Jacinto as they beat their second-round opponent, 70-54. Political science major and fan Christian Escobar, 19, said, “The triple-double (by Cockerhan) was really cool. That alone shows what kind of elite players we have and
first half slump as she piled on 19 second half points to finish with a game-high 27 points. Nursing major and fan Amber Hoffman, 24, said, “It’s awesome to see the women get the recogBy Richard Mejia nition they deserve. I go to all the Staff Writer games and they always play hard, so seeing them get as far as they After a record-setting regudid is incredible.” lar season, the LBCC women’s To cap off a successful season, basketball team continued its the team earned an ardominance with victoray of conference awards. ries in the second and “It’s awesome to see the women get the Coach Mike Anderson third rounds of the state recognition they deserve.” was named Coach of the championship playoffs -Amber Hoffman Year and freshman guard over Mt. San Jacinto on Nursing major and fan Abbey Goodsell earned Saturday, March 1 and All-Conference most Pasadena on Wednesday, March the elite basketball school LBCC valuable player honors. In addi5. is.” tion to the prestigious honors, the In defeating Mt. San Jacinto, The Vikings were able to ral- team produced three first team the Vikings won their 25th game ly late in the second-half against All-conference players in sophothis year, setting a new school Pasadena as they won 64-62 in the more guards Benton, and Jasmine record for the most wins by the third-round of the state champi- Williams and freshman center women’s team in a season. The onship playoffs. The team fell be- Darshana Taafua. Cockerhan victory was largely attributed to hind early and saw a 41-31 deficit. and sophomore forward Symsophomore Crystal Cockerhan’s Shakeena Benton, however, phony Logan were second team triple-double as she posted an helped the Vikings get over their All-Conference selections. impressive line of 14 points, 12
“We look to be making another run for state next year.” Sophomores Shaina Arnold, Dana Arrington, Benton, Kristina Bonilla, Cockerhan, Symphony Logan, Destinn Romain, and Jasmine Williams all played their last game as a Viking. Ventura advances to the final four as they take on No. 2 north seed Fresno on Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. Earlier that day, No. 1 north seed San Joaquin Delta will play No. 2 south seed Mt. San Antonio. The winners will play for the state championship at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 16. All three games are at Cerritos College.
HONORS
Star and coach guide LBCC to 26 wins and 11-2 league record
Abbey Goodsell Freshman guard
Michael Anderson Coach
MVP, South Coast Conference South Division 13 points per game
South Coast Conference South Division Coach of the Year
SPORTS
March 13, 2014
PREP RALLY
Poor first half sinks Vikes
9
By Richard Mejia Staff Writer
Jose Navarro/Viking LBCC’s men’s volleyball player Jerod Curtis practices returning the ball with his teammates at the LAC gym Monday, March 10. The team is 8-2 with its next games scheduled for March 14 against Pierce at 6 p.m. and March 19 at Santa Barbara.
After a hard-fought regular season, the LBCC men’s basketball team’s season ended in the playoffs with a second-round elimination 76-67 loss to Antelope Valley on Saturday, March 1, finishing the season with a 19-10 overall record. As it has gone all season, the inability for the Vikings to consistently score in the first half led to their losing efforts as they were outscored in the opening quarter. In contrast, they scored 41 points in the second half, but the much bigger and top-ranked Antelope Valley team was able to answer with 42 second-half points. Heading into the game, LBCC freshman guard Brandon Staton said, “We have to come out early and aggressive. We have to keep (the energy) going and find our shots against them.” Staton was adamant about the team’s focus to perform better in the first half, but the team fell flat as it could not get any open shots to go in the hoop. Coming off the heels of their first-round victory over Santa Ana, 87-79, on Thursday, Feb. 27, the Vikings seemed poised to steal a victory from the topranked Antelope Valley team. In their first-round performance, the Vikings came out aggressive in both halves and were physical in attacking the paint. Staton scored a game-high 30 points and was seemingly unstoppable from the perimeter as he went 4-4 from the 3-point line during the first half. Viking Coach Barry Barnes
BIG SWING
Richard Mejia/Viking GOING UP: Sophomore Kristien Owens attacks the basket in the Vikings’ first-round victory over Santa Ana at the LBCC Hall of Champions gym on Friday, Feb. 28.
said, “I don’t care if they are bigger than us, we have to keep playing our game and make our shots.” The up-tempo style that carried the Vikings all season is the style the team felt that could put in them in the position to a deep playoff run. Even though they fell short in the playoffs, the Vikings still have
a bright future with four firstteam All-Conference players in freshman guards Stanton, Elijah Gaines and Chris Spencer and sophomore guard Kristien Owens tabbed to play next season. With their core players intact and a freshman class incoming, the Vikings could be poised to make a deep playoff run in 2015.
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Brandon Richardson/Viking Freshman shortstop Julian Griego hits a line-drive double in the Vikings’ 11-5 victory over the host Glendale Vaqueros in a recent game. The team is 5-10. The next game is Thursday, March 13, at 2:30 p.m. at Cerritos.
CITY SPORTS
Men’s volleyball
The Vikings beat Santa Monica in three sets, 25-21, 25-23, 25-17, in the Small Gym Friday, March 7 to improve their record to 8-2. Freshman Dan Starkey had a team-high nine kills and sophomore Henry Taylor contributed a match-best .778 hitting percentage.
Softball
LBCC lost, 6-2, to East Los Angeles on Thursday, March 6.
Women’s tennis
The Vikings lost, 8-1, to Rio Hondo on Thursday, March 6. The next match is at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 13, at Desert.
Leadership
Nursing
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Ministry
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B.A. in Liberal Studies (also online)
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B.S. in Information Security (online)
Track and field
The Vikings will head to the Occidental College distance and sprints festivals at 2 p.m. Friday, March 14. LBCC’s men and women will compete in events ranging from the 100-meter dash to the 10,000-meter run during the annual event in Eagle Rock.
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15089
CALENDAR
10
March 13, 2014
READY FOR PRIME TIME
IMPORTANT DATES
March 17 LBCC and Long Beach Unified School District candidate forum Monday, in the LAC T1200 from 5:30-8 p.m. IMPORTANT DATES
March 13, 20 and 27 Honors program exploration speaker series in LAC P110 from 4-5 p.m. For more information, call (562) 938-4354 March 14 Storytelling and quiltsharing with Library learning resources associates at the LAC in P110. Fundraiser guest with Jane Tenorio Coscarelli, author of “The Tortilla Quilt”. At 2 p.m. Free with student ID otherwise $15 admission Through March 14 Associate degree nursing application at the LAC N104 for panic room application counseling Thursday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-noon For more information contact lbcc.edu/Nursing/ March 14 For women’s history month, students may participate in creative essay writing contest. First place prize is $500, second prize is $300, and third prize is $100. Entries are due on Friday noon. For more information, call (562) 938-4601 or Student Life, English Majors and Minors Club or the English Department March 15 The Viking Express will be closed Saturday for its annual inventory March 15 Presentation for Astronomy for Kids of all ages from 1-3 p.m. in Planetarium in the LAC Building D326. The event is free and open to the public. March 17 Puente Club and Puente project poetry writing workshop from noon-1 p.m in the PCC EE209 in preparation for the Cesar Chavez week of service. Reading will be March 26. Deadline to submit poems is Friday, March 21 at noon. Poems may be e-mailed to d2myers@lbcc.edu LBCCD’s regular Board of Trustee Meetings Broadcasted daily on channel 15 Long Beach, channel 29 Lakewood and FIOS Channel 45 and recordings on Youtube. Next meeting is March 25 at the LAC
For more information, email lbcc.communityengagementclub@outlook.com or call (562) 310-1945 March 18 - Tuesday Flex day. No classes Through March 21 The Alumni Association is accepting nominations for the alumni Hall of Fame. People may nominate deserving alumni who have been successful in their career and community. Nomination form is available at lbcc.edu/alumni/Hall2014.cfm For more information, call (562) 938-4353 or (562) 9384846. March 24 Deadline for LBCC innovation fund SoCal Program. Application process is available at innovationfundamerica. com/So-Cal.aspx For more information, call the office of community relations and marketing at (562) 938-4353 or (562) 938-4846. March 25 World trade week poster contest, judging on Tuesday, at the LAC Building O2 208, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Entries are submitted from high school and college students, including LBCC students. Students may stop by and fill out a ballot. For more information, people may email emurphy@ lbcc.edu March 26 Psychological services will be offering 15 minute workshops on the topics of dealing with conflict, campus safety and handling test anxiety in the LAC E Building: SESSION ONE 10-10:15 a.m. dealing with conflict 10:20 - 10:35 a.m. campus safety 10:40-10:55 a.m. handling test anxiety SESSION TWO 11-11:15 a.m. dealing with conflict 11:20-11:35 a.m. campus safety 11:40-11:55 a.m. handling test anxiety Student Cabinet Office of Student Life ASB Meetings are every first and third Monday at the LAC T1200 and every second and fourth Monday at the PCC LL102 at 2 p.m.
Arieel alcarez/Viking The men’s locker room at the LAC was used to film a commercial for men’s hair dye company A Touch of Gray on Thursday, March 6. Actor Antuone Torbet, right, practices lines before the cameras roll. The commercial is set to air Monday, April 7.
WORKSHOPS
Through May 15 WorldCat workshop: Monday, from 3:15-4 p.m. in the LAC L103. At the workshop, students may learn how to find books and reserve textbooks, music CDs and videos that they may pick up in the Library. Research paper basics workshop: At the LAC and PCC from noon-1 p.m. throughout the Spring semester focusing on writing a basic research paper. In addition, it will cover how to correctly cite sources using Modern Language Association and American Psychological Association formats. Nursing resources worshop: Every Monday at the LAC from 9-10 a.m. in L103. The workshop will cover how to find healthcare and nursing resources. Public library academic resources workshop: Free public library resources for school and beyond. Every Tuesday of the Spring semester from 10-11 a.m. in the LAC L103. For more information, call the office of community Relations and Marketing at (562) 938-4353 or (562) 9384846. ARTS
Through March 15 The art gallery is hosting an artist talk in conjunction with the exhibitions Transmissions/ Prometheus Reconstructed, a one-person exhibit by Alex Kritselis, and group exhibit Greece with artists Heyward Hart, Olga Koumoundouros, Gala Porras-Kim, Neal Rock and Rachelle Rojany. In the LAC K100 For more information, call the office of community relations and marketing at (562) 938-4353 or (562) 938-4846.
FINANCIAL AID
Scholarship search services at FastWeb FinAid U.S. Department of Education Sources and Information on scholarships at studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/ scholarships.jsp Scholarships for U.S. veterans and military families at studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/ military.jsp March 14 Foundation grant applications are due Friday by noon. For updated forms and guidlines, students may email lschneider@lbcc.edu CLUB
The Fashion Network Club is in the process of raising funds to produce the 37th Golden Curve Awards Fashion Show and has received a donation of tickets to a variety of Los Angeles sporting events. An auction is planned to raise funds for the May 23 fashion show. Bids are due by email before March 18 at communityrelations. lbcc.edu/Loop/03032014/SILENT%20AUCTION%201.pdf For more information email Pamela Knights at pknights@lbcc.edu ACADEMIC COUNSELING
Students may learn how to successfully transfer to university, receive assistance in researching and choosing the right university based on their needs. For more information students may call LAC (562) 938-4560 PCC (562) 938-3920
LBCC IE NEWS
LBCC’s IE News TV program airs from 5-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on cable channel 15 on Long Beach Charter, cable channel 29 on Lakewood Time Warner and channel 45 on Verizon Fios. KLBC.org 1610 AM 24 hours broadcast. KCTY.org 107.7 FM 24 hours broadcast Students may call KLBC at (562) 938-4800 or KCTY at (562) 938-4300 PARKING
Daily parking permits are available for $1 from dispensers on both campuses in the parking lots SPORTS
Thursday, March 13 Women’s tennis at Desert at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 13 Baseball at Cerritos at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, March 13 Softball vs. Cerritos at 3 p.m. Friday, March, 14 Women’s swimming and diving vs. Pasadena and Chaffey at LBCC at 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 14 Track and field at Occidental distance carnival and sprints festival at Occidental College at TBA Friday, March 14 Men’s volleyball at Los Angeles Pierce at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 15 Softball at Santa Barbara at noon Saturday, March 15 Baseball Vs. Cerritos at noon
March 13, 2014
CITY VIEWS
Should we have a bar or pub on our campuses?
OPINION
ALCOHOL RESEARCH
11
Compiled Monday, March 10, on the LAC Compiled by Kendall Harris, Darel James
Cydnei Slaughter, 19, nursing major
“No I don’t think that there should be a pub on campus. Most people will probably spend their time at the pub and not class.”
Fernando Calderon, 19, undecided major
“It seems cool, but it’s not necessary. Academics should come first. It would be a distraction. Maybe, if it wasn’t at LBCC. It might be bad publicity.”
EDITORIAL
Jackie Estrada, 19, undecided major
Megan Cernas, 19, broadcasting and journalism major
“I guess it’s a cool idea. It would be easy to come there and chill out.”
“It’s not necessary. There are more important things than drinking. It will take away the focus from studying.”
Lou Castro, 44,
Jonah Coloma, 28,
digital medical imaging major
“Yes, there should be a pub on campus. Beer is always good to me.”
art major
“I believe this project could delay the process of learning.”
LETTER TO THE EDITOR I applaud Katie Cortez’ letter (a round of cheers for a campus bar, Nov. 14). Cal State Long Beach has had a campus bar more than 20 years. Since I am way over 21, I would welcome a spot where I can enjoy a cold beer between
classes. Let’s hope, however, that students don’t opt for a cold one just before they take an exam, restraint and responsibility. Gerald Lunderville, Art history major
Viking Staff Editor in chief: Eliza De La Flor Managing editor: Brittany Lieberman News editors: Shannon Murphy and Samwell Favela Photo, video and images editor: Jose Navarro CityStyle editor: Marleen Ledesma Opinion editor: Leonard Kelley Online editor: Chris Martinez Social media editor: Albert Chavez Sports editor: Nick Steele Adviser: Patrick McKean Photo/online adviser: Chris Viola Retired photo adviser: Jim Truitt Staff: Thomasina Cotton Philemon Dang Miguel Espinoza Samwell Favela Ana Maria Ramirez Paul Ingvaldsen Liliana Duarte
Darel James Richard Mejia Alejandro Nicolas Brandon Richardson Kendall Harris Madison Salter
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.
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The deadline for news, advertisements and letters to the editor is the Thursday before publication. The Viking will be published March 27, April 10, May 1, 15, and 29. The Viking is published by Journalism 80 and 85 students of the LBCC English Department, with funding from the Associated Student Body. The Viking newsroom is located at LBCC, 4901 E. Carson St., Long Beach, Calif., 90808, Room P125, Mail Code Y-16, Telephone (562) 938-4285 or contact us by email to vikingnews@lbcc.edu. 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 LAC ASB volunteers. The views expressed in the Viking do not reflect the views of the advisers, administration or the ASB. First copy free, each additional $1.
Paul Ingvaldsen/Viking
Bring out the barrel The upcoming student-run restaurant and bakery raises questions about whether alcohol should be available to purchase on campus. LBCC currently has a strict policy on the consumption or sale of alcohol on school premises, but the policy is debatable. The idea does raise obvious concerns. Where alcohol is sold, abuse risks exist, either occasionally or habitually. Such abuse is damaging and dangerous and should be avoided, especially at a school. Additional safety concerns exist, such as driving or walking near the heavily trafficked roads that run next to both the PCC and LAC. Most students commute and safety is a serious concern. However, LBCC could take easy steps to curtail the risks. The legal drinking age limit would be enforced, with concern reduced being that many students are over 21. In addition, a reasonable limit on the number of drinks would be easy to implement and the restrictions can be tighter for students
who drive. A few miles from the LAC, Cal State Long Beach has a pub and grill, The Nugget, that serves beer and wine to students and employees of drinking age. The Nugget has served as a hotspot for student functions and campus events for several years. In that time, no incidents related to the serving of alcohol at the Nugget,
employees could observe Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s Day with friends, while staying safe on campus. A pub would also provide a financial boost to the school. A fun environment where students and employees can grab a beer and a burger would draw a lot of business. The proceeds could even go toward supporting or expanding programs that recently suffered cuts. A pub would offer opportunity to the culinary program. A class on micro-brewing or a wine-making class would be wildly popular as well as be a boon for culinary students when they enter the workforce. The pub would ofLeonard Kelley/Viking fer the perfect venue said Lt. Rick Goodfor taste-testing stuwin of the University Police. The dent-made beverages. They could Nugget is a source of pride for the offer a beer shot sample platter. campus. Students and employees could A bar or pub would serve as taste a few beers, give feedback a place where students and em- and rate their favorites. ployees can relax and socialize. A It’s understandably risky for pub would be ideal for a variety alcohol to mix with higher eduof events from after Spring Sing cation, but the potential benefits to club meetings. It could also be outweigh the risks. LBCC would a safe place for events that aren’t undoubtedly benefit from a pub currently available. Students and on either campus.
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IMAGES
‘A colorful escape’ comes to L.A.
March 13, 2014
Participants dance from the afternoon into the evening to traditional Indian musicians like The Bhajan Band, Kirtaniyas and DJ Yogi at Excelsior High School in Norwalk on Saturday, March 8. The festival is scheduled to hit Las Vegas, Escondido, San Bernardino and Oceanside in 2014.
Photos By Miguel Espinoza Staff Writer Story By Brittany Lieberman Managing Editor Pelting neon colored powder at strangers never felt so friendly. Hundreds of people took to the Excelsior High School soccer field in Norwalk on Saturday, March 8, to participate in the Hindu celebration of Holi. Holi is celebrated in the Spring and promotes togetherness, music and traditional Indian foods. Holi is scheduled to hit Escondido, Salt Lake City, Oceanside and San Bernardino later this year. LBCC student Anthony Galaz, 24, a music major, brought his fam-
ily for an afternoon of music and color. Galaz said, “Nothing else brings people together quite like good music and food. It’s about oneness and acceptance.” Melissa Jimenez, 20, a photography major, came to photograph the event, dance and sling neon powder at festival-goers. “It’s a colorful escape,” Jimenez said. Event organizer Charu Das said roughly 80,000 people attend the celebration each year in Spanish Fork, Utah, where he founded the Temple Hare Krishna. “Holi is about renewal, and realizing that each individual is a masterpiece. We need each other and should not feel we have to face problems on our own,” Das said.
Cal State University Long Beach student Brianna Flores, 22, a kinesiology major, wears a face mask to prevent breathing in colored dust.
Melissa Jimenez, 20, a photography major, came to photograph the celebration. Jimenez called the event a “colorful escape.”
Anthony Galaz, 24, a music major, brought his daughter to Holi. Galaz said, “Holi brings people together with food and music.”