Employees go head-to-head in Olympics Pages 6 and 7
May 14, 2015
Volume 88, Issue 15
Published Since 1927
Resources limited for homeless students School has no formal system in place to address housing insecurity issues. By Sylvana Uribe Staff Writer Homelessness does not have one particular face as it affects people of all ages. Whether spending nights in shelters, cars or on the couches of friends and family, a lack of safety or stability in living conditions categorizes a person as homeless. While cities have implemented ways to track the number of homeless people, Stacey Toda, LBCC’s associate director of public relations and marketing, said, “LBCC does not collect information on homeless students in order to protect the confidentiality of their living situation.” According to an article released by The Los Angeles Times on Monday, May 11, homelessness has risen 12 percent since 2013 in the city and county of Los Angeles. As of January 2015, more than 44,000 homeless people were accounted for across the county by the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority. Numbers suggest the prevalence of issues like low wages, high unemployment rates and lack of affordable housing. Every two years, the Long Beach Health Department gathers similar statistics by conducting a citywide street count of the homeless population.
The 2015 data has not yet been released, but services will be adjusted based on results and permit the city to understand changes in the homeless community. Janice Coquia, 27, a nursing major, is a student worker with Extended Opportunity Programs and Services and said she has often been approached about services at the college for homeless people and would like to see more resources on campus. “I know there are a few outside services, but even then you have to be already on the streets. There’s no prevention of that here,” Coquia said. Anita Gibbins, the director of Student Health Services and Student Life, said, “Services are currently very limited. Essentially, I refer (homeless students) to the Sylvana Uribe/Viking Long Beach Multi-Service Center. A HELPING HAND: Financial Aid specialist Angela Fowlkes helps Sean Manlapaz, 19, a kinesiology They house the numerous agenmajor and non-homeless student, as he seeks assistance in the Financial Aid office at the PCC on cies in Long Beach that provide Tuesday, May 12. services. As a college, currently we don’t really have anything ex- aid specialist at the PCC, said nancial Aid Department in No- two, it’s so many.” Fowlkes said it would be helpcept to provide them with refer- homelessness is an issue she re- vember 2014, and said she loves lates closely to as she experienced her job and helping students. She ful to have a center in the college rals.” Located in the industrial homelessness when she was un- has encountered students ask- that served as a direct connection area of West Long Beach, the employed. After nine years with ing for financial assistance who to homeless services, rather than sometimes cannot pro- send students on a chase for reMulti-Service Center a mailing address. sources. offers basic amenities “I actually went home and I was honestly vide In some cases, students “They’re here to obtain their like showers, transportation, medical care, trying to process, ‘How can I help the stu- were living in their cars educational goals so that would mental-health services dents?’ Because it’s so many, it’s not like or were at risk of losing give them sustainability and gaintheir home. ful employment. I think if we and links homeless peo“After a while, you could have something like that ple with housing options it’s just one or two, it’s so many.” through referrals to shel-Angela Fowlkes just don’t see them any- in place for our students that are homeless, just something to give ters. Financial Aid specialist more because they are not able to sustain them- them hope and move them forIts collaborative partselves while they go to ward, I think that would be wonners include organizations that teach financial literacy the college, Fowlkes was laid off in school,” Fowlkes said. “I actually derful.” More information about the and work with homeless veterans 2009 and relied on her parents to went home and I was honestas well as families at risk of being make ends meet as a single moth- ly trying to process, ‘How can I Multi-Service Center may be ober of five daughters. help the students?’ Because it’s so tained by calling (562) 570-4500. homeless. Fowlkes was hired in the Fi- many, it’s not like it’s just one or Angela Fowlkes, a financial
Spring Sing will bring music videos to life
By Sylvana Uribe Staff Writer
As the semester comes to a close, throwbacks to music video favorites will come to life onstage with the 64th annual Spring Sing on Friday, May 22, at 7 p.m. Every Spring, the college and Associated Student Body organize a fundraiser by giving students and employees the opportunity to perform in front of their peers. Performances range from dances and poetry as well as theatrical and comedy acts alluding to the theme, which is music videos this year. Money raised contributes to the LBCC Foundation’s scholarship fund.
ASB Rep. of Communications dents will be on a stage meant for tine, but also “study for finals so Brittany Lieberman, 25, a com- performances. we’re scrambling to make sure munications major, said, “It’s a Robertson said, “We’re look- that we’re getting everything done fun event for everyone, there are ing forward to the good perform- and not fall behind in school.” lots of laughs and you get to see ers, acts the clubs are working on, ASB Cultural Affairs chair at another side of your classmates and individual acts, so it’s going to the LAC Alberto Moreno, 23, a that you wouldn’t normally get to be another great Spring Sing.” Spanish literature major, said he see on campus.” has never attended Spring This year’s performances “I think the music video theme is Sing before but is looking forwill be in the LAC Auditori- very creative.” ward to it. um as opposed to the gym, “I think the music video -Alberto Moreno theme is very creative,” Morewhich has hosted the compeASB Cultural Affairs chair tition for the past two years. no said. “I don’t know what Using costumes and custom to expect, I know a lot of stuset designs, performers will have George Felix, 20, a biomedical dents are going to participate and a maximum of seven minutes to engineer major, said he is starting expose their talents to the stuimpress judges with their acts. to feel the pressure as his group dent body so I’m very excited to Student Life coordinator Teila prepares to represent their club, see what they’re going to bring to Robertson said she was excited Aztlan, in the competition. Spring Sing.” the competition was moved back Felix said the group is workAwards in the clubs and open to the Auditorium and glad stu- ing hard to learn its dance rou- division include first place for the
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men and women’s social service clubs as well as recognitions in categories like best choreography, dramatic performance, costume design and ticket sales champion for groups who sell the most presale tickets. In the independent division, which refers to soloists and groups of seven or less, performers will compete for titles of best vocals as well as best instrumental and dance. Presale tickets can be purchased from Spring Sing participants for $5 or for $7 at the door. More information about the event may be obtained by contacting Robertson at (562) 938-4978 or trobertson@lbcc.edu.
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NEWS
2
May 14, 2015
Scholarships awarded for Germany trip By Irina Nizovtseva Staff Writer
Darel James/Viking INTERACTION: Student Services Department members Judy Quilaton and Anthony Hayes converse with a criminal justice major Brian Martinez, 20, about Financial Aid procedures on the LAC.
Students satisfy survey Responses accepted until Friday, May 15. By Darel James Staff Writer More than 800 students at the PCC and LAC have completed a short satisfaction survey provided by the Student Services Department and others may do so by 5 p.m. Friday, May 15, at http:/bit. ly/1dkwbjt. The survey is being used to find areas where student support services is strongly needed and ways to improve student assistance. The survey also is being
used to help observe what students encounter during their visits to the many offices. EOPS interim assistant director Anthony Hayes said on Thursday, April 30, “We want to find out what students experience in student services and where we must direct our focus to make their visits to our departments beneficial.” Fliers for the survey have been posted around both campuses to better promote the questionnaire and for students to have their voice heard in various matters around student satisfaction. Employees from the student services departments also have
visited each campus to spread the message, handing out fliers and setting up information tents to explain the project. Criminal justice major Brian Martinez, 20, said, “I believe Financial Aid is sometimes a problem for most people. Sometimes students don’t have the patience to fill out the forms and just give up.” The questionnaire contains 17 questions and touches on topics such as Financial Aid, admissions and counseling. Participating students will also have the chance to win prizes ranging from gift cards to a Nook reader.
Board OK’s paying student trustee $50 per meeting By Tori Ann Lerch Contributing Writer
about four full-time faculty members under the obligation that the state had given us for full-time faculty. That’s why we expect to see a smaller amount here.” The report shows that some departments have not used all of the budgeted funds, but Gabel assured the funds not used in the 2014-2015 fiscal year will roll over into the next year. Also at the meeting, the honors program gave a presentation
ta Kappa award reception where three students were recognized for achievement. The Board of Trustees voted History and political science unanimously Tuesday, May 12, professor Lisa Orr presented her to approve compensation for the sabbatical report and said she student trustee. found new love for environmental The student trustee is elected and natural history. She said she by students, serves a 1-year term plans to start a class on environand has an advisory vote. Student mental history. Trustee Gus Orozco said, “From Trustee Sunny Zia discussed my understanding, I will receive the effort to increase credit cours$50 for every meeting I attended es compared to non-credit coursduring the time I served as es, since credit courses the trustee.” The compen- “Our first goal is to provide a schedule receive more funds sation will come as a lump from the state. Presisum at the end of his term for students that supports student success dent Eloy Oakley said, as student trustee in June. and secondly the scheduling of credit “Our first goal is to The Board and admin- courses compared to non-credit courses.” provide a schedule for istrators also discussed students that supports -Eloy Oakley student success and Gov. Jerry Brown’s plan to President secondly the schedulprovide additional funding for Community Colleges ing of credit courses statewide. showing the representation of the compared to non-credit courses.” Vice President of Adminis- school-sponsored trip of the honAfter the open session portion trative Services Ann-Marie Gabel ors transfer council at the Califor- of the meeting, the Board and top also reported on the third quar- nia research conference. Six stu- administrators went back into ter financial status, covering the dents made presentations at the closed session to discuss the items budget up to March 31. She said conference on research they had that could not be finished before reports showed funds were being conducted. the open session meeting. spent adequately in each area. Student relations coordinator Among the items were negoWhen discussing the prior Alicia Kruizenga announced that tiations with employee unions year adjustments, she said LBCC the president’s scholarship has re- and the potential sale of vacant expects to see less funding from ceived additional funding from property at Los Coyotes Diagonal, the state than initially reported. the Rotary Club. Kruizenga also Palo Verde Avenue and Wardlow Gabel said, “In 2014, we were reported on the annual Phi The- Road.
For Ashley Puente, 21, a physics major, traveling to Germany has always been a dream. She said, “I want to visit as many cities as possible when I go to Germany for three weeks, from June 16 to Aug 19.” She said having the opportunity to do so with 15 other students from LBCC is a dream come true, thanks to the Roland Hoppe Foundation, which grants generous scholarships for students to travel during the Summer in Germany. Ellen Villalovos, 20, a physics major, said, “I mainly want to explore Berlin from June 27 to the beginning of July and maybe visit the countryside for a few days. I know I will buy as many souvenirs as I can carry.” Ingrid Wollank, a full-time German and Spanish professor at LBCC for 20 years, encourages students to travel abroad. “It is a great opportunity for students to go and experience different culture and see the beautiful cities of Germany. Also, they will be able to learn the language a lot more efficiently since all students are
required to travel separately, so they avoid talking English.” With a stipend of 300 euros, or $340, per week, the students will have to do research to find a place to stay. “There are very affordable places to stay for students, the youth hostels are cheap and convenient, almost like a bedand-breakfast,” Wollank added. Both Puente and Villaloros said, “I want to eventually go back, if I have enough funds, maybe even possibly work there.” For three years now, the Roland Hoppe Foundation has aided students in traveling to Germany and seeing the country and all the opportunities it offers. Woolank said, “Each year we have had more and more students wanting to go abroad to visit Germany. “It is a gift from heaven that these students have this opportunity, knowing many would not have the opportunity to travel if it weren’t for the scholarship.” Students who wish to learn more about study-abroad programs or scholarship opportunities to travel to Germany may contact the scholarship office at (562) 938-4766 or Wollank at iwollank@lbcc.edu.
Summer classes begin By Elizabeth Cheruto Contributing Writer
Summer registration for students at LBCC started Monday, May 4 and will be open until Sunday, June 14 at 11 p.m. Students started lining up at the cashiers, registration and Financial Aid office at the LAC on Tuesday, May 5. The payment deadline is Tuesday, June 16, by 4 p.m. in person or by 10 p.m. online. Classes will begin Monday, June 22. Rene Pheng, an accounting technician, said, “Students may apply for FAFSA Financial Aid online at the FAFSA website or the LBCC website under Financial Aid. FAFSA applications are on a first-come first-serve basis so
I hope students will take advantage of early application.” Shawna Jones, an office assistant in the cashier’s office, said, “Students may start paying for their Summer classes. Our office will be open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and will be closed every Friday in the summer.” Raeny Ramsey, 19, an undecided major, said, “I will be taking Summer classes and I have registered for Read 880 and softball.” Another student, Jessica Sandobal, 19, an undecided major, said, “I am not planning to take Summer classes. I will be taking a trip with my sister but if I was not taking the trip, I would have signed up for classes.”
NEWS
May 14, 2015
Polling continues for ASB elections
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Electronic voting system replaces paper ballots. By Hunter King CityStyle Editor
A steady stream of students took to the voting booth at the PCC Tuesday evening. ASB adviser Derek Oriee managed the booth with volunteers Maria Sanchez, 24, a medical anthropology major, and Steven Chan, 19, a biology major. Thirty minutes before the first day of voting concluded, the voter count numbered at just over 100. “The turnout has been average so far, at this rate, we might get 400 voters in all,” Oriee said. With about 25,000 students enrolled, 400 votes would be less than 1 percent. The ASB Cabinet hopes the new electronic voting option will draw in more voters. In previous years, students had to fill out paper ballots at the booth. This year, students can log onto the student account to vote or use a laptop or tablet provided at the voting booth. The ASB positions up for election are president, PCC vice president, LAC vice president, secretary, treasurer, and student trustee. Competition exist for the seat of president between candidates Benny Carrillo, computer science major, and Dalziel Arambula, psychology and communication major. For the seat of trea-
Jon Peacock/Viking OPEN SEATS: ASB members discuss topics during their meeting at the PCC on Friday, May 9. The Cabinet discussed smoking restrictions as well as ASB elections.
surer, Jeremiah Harris, a physics major, and Joshua Bedulla, a business administration major, are competing. Robert Hewitt is running for LAC vice president, while Brian Ortiz is running for PCC vice president. Mara Joy Abudo is running for secretary. Alejandro Lomeli is running for student trustee. A voter may also write in a candidate. For a write in candidate to be considered, he or she
Hunter King/Viking MOBILE ENTRY: The new mylbcc.edu mobile portal of LBCC is a mobile optimized version of the school’s website.
New portal opens with more access Modifications improve mobile use. By Matthew Lanese Contributing Writer LBCC released a new student portal to be used for students to easily access class schedules and maps of the college. The college released its new student portal Monday, May 4 as a source for easier access when enrolling and finding out the latest news about the school. The communications department at LBCC decided it was time to advance its resources and develop a user-friendly website to access school schedules and links.
The Windows 8-like site includes links to class catalogue, interactive maps and radio and TV tabs for entertainment. The name of the website is my.lbcc.edu. A spokes person from the communications department was contacted and talked about why the school needs a separate website when most of the links can be found on the school’s homepage. The spokesperson said, “It’s cutting edge and user-friendly.” He also talked about if the portal could potentially lead to an app for the college and said, “It’s very possible. We want to see how other students react and then decide later on if we should make this into an app or not.”
must receive a minimum of 50 votes. Alberto Moreno, the LAC Cultural Affairs chair, took charge of the elections committee after the previous election committee’s leader resigned six weeks before the election dates. “We did our best to promote it, but it would have helped to have more time in the planning of the bbq and other promotional events,” Moreno said. Bedulla was spotted on the
PCC doing some of his own promotional work with his campaign team member and art major Jenapher Moore, 18. “We’re trying to bridge the gap between students and the ASB,” Bedulla said. The duo was handing out mixed tapes and candy in an effort to start conversations with students passing by just beyond the 50-foot radius of the polling booth, as to not interfere with voters. Amanda Touch, a computer
information systems major, 20, said, “I didn’t even know there was a polling booth until Joshua pointed it out. The electronic system is so easy.” Seventeen ASB Cabinet members serve an enrollment of about 25,000 students. The last day to cast a ballot is Thursday, May 14, at the LAC. Voting times are from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. The results will be posted the following day at 5 p.m.
25% off with student ID @sansailakewood
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NEWS
4
A legend turns into a legacy
Story By Ana Maria Ramirez and Jon Peacock Staff Writers
A true legend will turn into a legacy on Sunday, June 7, as the LBCC Foundation honors senior center coordinator Mary Thoits on her 92nd birthday. A brunch and fashion show is planned in the LAC Studio Theatre at 11 a.m. Tickets cost $50 and may be purchased by calling (562) 938-4846. Thoits has shown a passion for living her life. According to the Long Beach Press-Telegram, she received her pilot’s license in 1941 and then went on to become a commercial flight instructor. World War II broke out and she joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots and she flew military aircrafts. After the war, Thoits spent 15 years helping plan events at U.S. and European bases. According to the Press-Telegram, on Thoits’ 85th birthday, she went skydiving and on her 87th birthday, she spent the day flying a small plane around Catalina. Thoits is currently managing the senior center program and has been doing so since she started the program in 1977. Thoits wanted to bring older adults into the college and allow them to have a college experience to keep their mind active. Today, the Mary Thoits Senior Studies Center offers an array of activities for the seniors. The
Coalition promotes blood drive By Aliyah Souder and Oscar Ortiz Contributing Writers
Katie Cortez YOUNG AT HEART: Long Beach lifeguard Sean Guerin helps Mary Thoits during her morning swim in Downtown Long Beach last Summer.
weekly tour is one of the most popular activities that is organized by the center. “One of our most popular tours is the Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena. It is so popular that we have a waiting list,” Thoits said. Two tours to the Rose Bowl are planned each semester. Originally, the class began with the concept of a geography
class. Soon, Thoits discovered that touring was a good way to engage seniors into coming to college. The class is self-supportive and a non-credit course. Many other tours are planned with some being so popular that 500 people sign up when there is only 50 seats on the bus. Due to the limited space, some of the tours are repeated twice in one
TAP & Th
May 14, 2015
semester. Participants can be any age to take a tour. In an interview with the Press-Telegram, Thoits said, “I think the concept of retirement is grossly overrated. … They can retire to something else, but not to pull back from society. The want to understand what is happening in the world and to be a part of it.”
LBCC’s Coalition for Latino Advancement club sponsored a blood drive in the Nordic Lounge on Wednesday, May 6, and Thursday, May 7. Alejandro Campos, a member of the club, said though the club began in 2006, the blood drive is something they began to sponsor just two semesters ago. Joselyn Solis said, “We had a good outcome the first semester. We had about 150 students.” Solis and Campos said the club hoped to get as many donors as the first semester so their club can continue to thrive and obtain achievement. The Chavez Challenge website lists four main objectives: promote heath, education, health and science careers, civic engagement by honoring Chavez’s legacy as an American civil leader and to encourage blood donation to save lives. Solis said the club is trying to stay active and continue to give service to their community by participating in the Chavez Challenge Blood Drive. Just as Chavez gave service to his community, the Coalition for Latino Advancement honors Chavez’s dedication by following in his footsteps and remembering to give back.
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SPORTS
May 14, 2015
Vikings swept in playoffs by Pirates
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Season over after losses to Orange Coast, 18-3 and 3-2. Coach remains 5 shy of wins record. By Will Ranos Sports Editor
The Vikings had a short stint in baseball’s SoCal Regional Playoffs, getting swept in a best-ofthree-series by the Orange Coast Pirates, 18-3 and 3-2. In the first game of the series Friday, May 1, at LBCC’s Joe Hicks Memorial Field, the Vikings started with pitcher Evan May giving up three hits and one run through the first three innings, according to the Viking’s athletics website. The fourth inning is when the big scoring started for Orange Coast and wouldn’t stop until the last inning. The Pirates scored 17 runs on 17 hits in the final six innings. As a team, Orange Coast had a batting average of .426. The Pirates paired that batting average with solid pitching from Art Vidrio, who held the Vikes scoreless until the seventh inning. As a team the Vikings had a batting average of .200. LBCC sophomore shortstop Michael Thomas, said, “Pitching wasn’t as strong as it has been and hitting wasn’t there for us. They are a good hitting team.”
Cindy Macias/Viking PITCHING FAST: LBCC sophomore Julian Grieg pitches the ball during game two of the SoCal Regional playoffs against the visiting Orange Coast Pirates Saturday, May 2. The Vikings lost, 18-3 and 3-2 to the Pirates.
After their 15-run loss Friday, the Vikings came back to play a closer game the next day. Through six innings the Vikes were winning, 2-1. LBCC had a similar batting average to Friday’s with a .212 average, but they brought down Orange Coast’s to
.320. Even though sophomore pitcher Julian Griego had a sound outing, he and the Vikings gave up two runs in the seventh and eighth innings, giving Orange Coast a 3-2 victory in game two. The Vikes’ season is over now
Coach wins league award After 23-7 season, Vikings earn 5 AllConference awards
earned run average of 3.38 overall and 2.95 in conference play including four shutouts. Viking coach Casey Crook finished five wins shy of breaking Hicks’ school record of 513 career wins.
CITY SPORTS By Jon Peacock Staff Writer FOOTBALL: The LBCC Viking football fundraiser and Spring game will be Thursday, May 28, at 6:30 p.m., at Veterans Stadium. A ticket can be purchased for $10 and is good for one plate and a bottled water. Food will be served from 5:30-6:20 p.m. TRACK AND FIELD: The California Community College Athletic Association’s Track and Field State Championship is planned Thursday and Friday, May 14-15, at the College of San Mateo in
By Will Ranos Sports Editor and Cindy Macias Staff Writer In his sixth season at LBCC, men’s basketball coach Barry Barnes earned the South Coast Conference South Division Coach of the Year award for the Vikings’ success in the 2014-15 season. The Vikings went 23-7 overall and 7-1 in the conference, which gained them first place and marked the second consecutive year LBCC has been league champions. Barnes said, “Winning coach of the year is something I never thought would happen. Dream, it’s a dream to even be coaching and to be coach of the year.” The coach of the year also mentioned that assistant coaches Larry Sanders and Gary Anderson have been a big plus and that they’ve contributed to the success as much as him. The Vikings have improved while Barnes has been head coach. Since his first year as coach in 2009-10, the Vikes have gone 9-15, 15-12, 10-16, 11-16, 19-10 and 23-7. Barnes also played two seasons at LBCC from 1982-84 and earned an All-Metro Team honorable mention.
after their playoff loss. They finished 20-18 on the season with a conference record of 15-6. As a team, LBCC had a batting average of .271 and an on-base percentage of .344, according to the Vikings’ athletic website. The website also said the Viking pitchers had an
Northern California. LBCC track and field team members qualified to participate in three events. Freshman Chantel Dunson is scheduled to participate in the triple jump with sophomore Jared Jones scheduled to compete in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. The men’s relay team is scheduled to run in the 4-by-100meter relay. Members of the men’s relay team are Travis Thomas, Jordan Noble, Damond Burns and Jacob Thorton. Jones’ time of 9:26.84 for the steeplechase is ranked 9th on the alltime LBCC performance list.
Athletics hosting golf tournament By Will Ranos Sports Editor
Cindy Macias/Viking COACHING STRONG: Mens basketball coach Barry Barnes received the South Coast Conference Coach of the Year award. Barnes has been coaching at LBCC since 2004 and has been head coach for the last six years.
Viking sophomores Brandon Staton and Chris Spencer earned All-State recognition with Staton also being named conference South Division Player of the Year.
Spencer along with sophomore Elijah Gaines and freshman Michael Shivers received first-team All-Conference South Division honors.
To raise money for Viking athletics, the LBCC Foundation Athletics Associates will be hosting a golf tournament, today, Thursday, May 14, at 1 p.m., at the Recreation Park Golf Course in Long Beach. The 32nd annual golf tournament sponsored by the Athletics Associates includes golfing, food, beverages and a raffle. Chris Ruiz, the LBCC sports information specialist and a member of the Athletics Association, said, “It’s the largest fundraiser of the year. It covers a lot things the athletic department
budget doesn’t. A lot goes towards teams’ equipment and other needs they may have.” Ruiz said last year the fundraiser brought in roughly $12,000. “We definitely hope to improve last year’s total, and it looks like we will.” Some of the student-athletes participate in the event by helping with golf bags, selling raffle tickets and passing out tee packages. Ruiz said, “It’s a lot of work throughout the year. Members of the community, LBCC employees and a lot of people put time into this. In the end it’s all worth it.”
EMPLOYEE OLYMPICS
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May 14, 2015
Employees blow off steam
President Eloy Oakley, left, competes against Facilities staff member Aaron Turner during the final event of the Spring Employee Olympics. The event was held LAC from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in and outside the Hall of Champions.
Story by Jon Peacock Staff Writer Photos by Darel James and Jon Peacock Staff Photographers
Kristy Lutz, and athletic coordinator Mary Hegarty. Even the journalism program made an appearance led by Patrick McKean, under the team name The Write Stuff. Other notable teams included BSS (BusiNot the clouds nor the rain could stop ness Support Services), the Head Hunters LBCC employees from having fun while play- from the Human Resources Department, ing silly yet competitive games at the LAC Hall Sassy Student Relations from the Outreach of Champions on Friday May 8. and Student Relations and Math Success Cen“We have various event that all employees ter from health, kinesiology, science and math. can participate in. … It is a nice way to build After numerous events, Dwayne Ellis, a team experience, to build relationships with custodian, from the team Cheryl Made Us Do the other employees,” benefits technician Ev- This, sounded optimistic, saying, “Hopefully elyn Reed said. we win this.” With over 200 “It is a nice way to build team The Tower of Power employees particiwas by far the most poppated in 10 events experience, to build relationships ular and serious event. during the 2nd annu- with the other employees.” Fifteen teams, each al LBCC Olympics. equipped with over 100 -Evelyn Reed plastic red solo cups, atPresident Eloy Oakley Benefits technician said, “We’ve had other tempted to construct the events before. … But tallest plastic tower they this is the first time where we’ve had a col- could build in under 10 minutes; without the lege-wide competition.” help from ladders or chairs. Participants varied from the custodial staff Each design was significantly different to the college president competed in different than the next, including everything from edevents and enjoyed a great time. From cup ited versions of the classic pyramid to multiple tower building to miniature golf each game, towers leaning against one another for supwas as childishly clever as the next. port. Oakley said the idea behind the event was The top three teams to participate in a reto “get people together, have some fun, cele- lay race were the athletic supporters, health, brate the year and let loose a little bit.” kinesiology, science and math and facilities. A majority of the teams competing were Even Oakley took to the floor and participatmade up of specific departments around the ed in the final Viking relay race. He started campuses. The Athletic Supporters sported things off for his team bouncing on a HippiLBCC Viking jerseys. Some of the notable ty Hop, even joking about making sure none teammates included head football coach Brett of the bouncy balls were deflated. In the race, Peabody, sports information specialist Chris the athletic supporters came in first, followed Ruiz, head athletic trainer Mary Aja, first-year by health, kinesiology, science and math and tennis coach Renzo Maggi, athletic specialist then facilities.
Employees representing the Fiscal Services Department, Bean Counters, left, ba representing the Counseling and Student Services Departments, One Hit Wond finals.
May 14, 2015
EMPLOYEE OLYMPICS
m in the Spring Olympics
Employees representing the Math Success Center work together in a race against other teams to see who can stack the highest tower of plastics cups during the Tower of Power event.
d Friday, May 8, at the
attle against teachers ders, in the Volleyball
Guided by Athletic Coordinator Mary Hegarty, Members of The Athletic Supporters team compete against the Facilities Department in a plank race during the Spring Employee Olympics.
Mascot Oli gives an epic high five during the torch ceremony at the Spring Employee Olympics at the LAC.
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CITYSTYLE
May 14, 2015
Art installations manifest Sculptures fill the courtyard of the K Building By Melina Paris Contributing Writer The Hundred Pieces Project, a critique of art installations by students in the intermediate sculpture class, was conducted Tuesday, May 5, by their class of peers for the LBCC Student Art Show, which was Tuesday, May 12. The courtyard of the K Building was filled with about 10 of the sculpture entries. Sculpture major Angel King has entered her piece, which is still unnamed. It is made of wood and fiber for what she has identified as skin in her work. “My portfolio is about the idea of home,” King said. “Something to possibly live in or otherwise.” King explained the whole Photo courtesy of skydiveelsinore.com CLOSER TO THE SUN: Diana Al-Shammari, 19, enjoys tandem skydiving over Lake Elsinore during Spring Break.
Rising above daily routine Freedom taken to new heights during this Spring Break.
“Skydiving is common,” she said, “As long as you take it seriously, you won’t die.” In fact, Boctor was more supportive of Al-Shammari’s skydiving aspirations than her sister By Jonathan Asaad was. “Skydiving isn’t for those Contributing Writer who at first don’t succeed, but Diana is a smart girl. I’m glad she Springing out of an airplane is had the courage to do something how one LBCC student decided she’d always dreamed of doing,” to spend a portion of her Spring Boctor said. Break despite her parents’ disapFor many of Al-Shammari’s proval. friends, the idea of skydiving is Diana Al-Shammari, 19, had merely for the brave. When talking some convincing to do on her about if the trip to the skydivparents before going skydiving at ing facility was nerve-wracking, Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore, Al-Shammari said, “I was hardly which is about a 2 ½-hour drive frightened,” although she knew from Long Beach. that the plane A l - Sh am m ar i that was going said, “At first, my “A silent girl with a to be 13,000 feet parents were con- deadly willpower.” in the air before cerned, but then I -Jizelle Boctor she jumped out. assured them that Friend of Diana Al-Shammari “I was more exit was safe by showcited than nering them an article vous,” Al-Shammari said. about tandem skydiving and how “The feeling of weightlessness safe it is,” which gained their conand freedom is indescribable. You sent. have to experience it to find out.” Her friend, Jizelle Boctor, who The cost of tandem skydiving described Al-Shammari as “a siis $189 and videos and pictures lent girl with a deadly willpoware an additional $90. er,” said she wasn’t surprised that Although the workers at SkyAl-Shammari was able to get her dive Elsinore are reportedly corparents’ approval. dial and make their clients feel When Diana Al-Shammari’s secure, Al-shammari said Lake sibling Suzan Al-Shammari was Elsinore does not provide the best asked if she supported her sister’s skydiving view in Southern Caliskydiving decision, she didn’t hesfornia. itate to say, “No I didn’t. I thought “I’d always wanted to expeeverything would go wrong and I rience it and what better time didn’t trust it. It’s not something to skydive than Spring Break?” normal and I thought she’d die, Al-Shammari said. She would 100 percent. On top of that, it’s definitely skydive again soon, something that could be avoided. however, Al-Shammari said she It’s not a good way to die.” probably wouldn’t choose to take Boctor disagreed with Suzan her next leap of faith in Lake ElAl-Shammari’s sentiments. sinore.
Cindy Macias/Viking SPHERICAL WEB: Art major Julie Hong uses twine to lash her sculpture together on Wednesday, May 13.
class critiques each other’s works and it takes about two days to get through the 100 pieces. The course is her third intermediate sculpture class and she is building her portfolio to transfer to Cal State Long Beach or UCLA. Jane Adams, who has worked
in the art office as the administrative assistant for the department for one year, said she enjoyed this show. “I see students growing in their skills and its interesting seeing how creative they can get creating their own vision.”
gallery and a chance to verbally present their artwork to the public. Interviewed in the LBCC art building, art student Jamie Trevino said, “As you can see, they are doing some finishing touches on the galleries with the carts inside. But when it is done, it's going to look like a mini-professional gallery. I think it’s great that the department has decided to put this together to mock what it would
feel like to students to have their work shown in a gallery setting.” All are welcomed to attend the opening. Light refreshments will be served. Gallery hours for the students and public will be Monday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday noon-8 p.m. The gallery will continue to run until Thursday, May 28 when it will close its door at 4 p.m.
New artists present work By Anissa Banda Contributing Writer
Art students will show off their work in an art gallery setting starting today, Thursday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. Students in the Visual Arts and Media Arts Department have been carefully reviewed and selected by teachers from the department. The students selected will have their work shown in the
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CITYSTYLE
May 14, 2015
9
Radio, TV host third Sound Waves event
By Tyisha Ali Staff Writer
The waves of music will spread through the wires of the LBCC community during the Sound Waves event today, Thursday, May 14. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the radio and television program of The Visual and Media Arts Department will present the third annual Sound Waves event. Sound Waves is a live showcase for local independent artist and bands who are looking for exposure. This artist and bands are scheduled to perform and to be interviewed by the college radio hosts from KLBC and KCTY. As a spin-off event of the College Radio Day event that is produced in the Fall semester, Sound Waves has turned into a growing presentation every Spring semester.
KLBC radio host Jakarely Angulo, 22, a communications major, said, “This event is very important because we get to help those from our community get their music heard through our radio stations and I.E News.” Emmett Brooks, 39, a radio and television production major, said, “Sound waves is great because it bring unity to college.” Sound Waves can be heard live through the college radio stations, KLBC on 1610 on the am dial and KCTY on 107.7 on the FM dial, KLBC.org, KCTY.org and will stream live on the YouTube with LBCC’s I.E. News. The sound waves event will be featuring 11 artist and bands. The line-up includes HTC, Justine Abigail, Tramp Iron Railroad, Appartition railway, The LBCC Jazz Big Band, John Fullwood, Kathryn Dean, The Felt Fedoras,
Jack Roberts Harvey Band, Addam Scott, Johnny, Mark and the Ricks. Angulo said, “As a student doing radio it is of great important to me because we get to interview new bands, meet new artists and be introduced to different styles of music. We pretty much get the experience how it will be when we have a real job in the radio field in the near future.” James Melau, 35, a radio and television major, said, “This is my first time going to Sound Waves. I graduated here years ago and this wasn’t happing at that time so I am really excited to be able to be a part of this event now.” Melau said, “It’s good to see the college is giving these artists an opportunity to get their name out there and do what they love.”
Marcy Lopez/Viking AND THE AWARD GOES TO: LBCC President Eloy Oakley surprises journalism professor Cindy Frye with an Outstanding Colleagues award during a visit to a class Tuesday, May 12.
Cindy Macias/Viking SOUL TO THE SOUND: Patrick Sheng, a music teacher and director of instrumental jazz studies, prepares for the first Spring Jazz Faculty Recital, a collaborative concert that will feature the individual talent of teachers. The recital will be Sunday, May 17 at 2 p.m. at the Ruth Todd Concert Hall in G122.
Teachers to offer jazz recital By Cindy Macias Staff Writer Musical pieces of a wide variety of styles such as Brazilian tunes, modern jazz, bebop and the blues will included in the first Spring Jazz Faculty Recital presented by the LBCC Concert Artist Series on Sunday, May 17, at 2 p.m. The recital is a collaborative concert that will feature the individual talent of teachers. Teachers performing include Patrick Sheng, saxophone, Elliot Deutsch, trumpet, Michael Higgins, guitar, Anthony Shadduck, bass, Dean Koba, drums, and Andrea Calderwood and Anne Walsh doing vocals. Other contributing to the performance include Sheng’s wife, Crystal Hayes, on the trombone and local jazz pianist Tom Zink. Pieces that will be performed include a jazz standard by Billy
Strayhorn called “Chelsea Bridge,” a 1955 song by David Mann and Bob Hilliard “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning” arranged by Andrea Calderwood and “Last Chance Lewis” by Patrick Sheng. Also planned are “Moanin’” by Bobby Timmons, “Nature Boy” by eden ahbez arranged by Anne Walsh and Tom Zink and “Oh, Lady Be Good” by George and Ira Gershwin, arranged by Elliot Deutsch. “One Note Samba” by Antonio Carlos Jobim and “Song #8/ Cherokee” by Kenny Garrett and Ray Noble also will be performed. Sheng, music teacher and director of instrumental jazz studies, said, “I hope students and faculty get a cultural exposure with the live performances. With live performances you get the real deal. You see it live and the action is up and close. It brings you closer to the music and musicians.”
Sheng hopes to eventually host two to three shows by teachers per semester. Upcoming jazz events at LBCC include the Jazz Big Band and the Vocal Jazz Concert. The LBCC Jazz Big Band will feature the world-renowed Wayne Bergeron on Friday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. in the LBCC Auditorium. Prior to the event, Bergeron will conduct a workshop from 4-5 p.m. The LBCC Vocal Jazz Concert will feature The Filharmonic on Friday, June 5 at 7p.m. in the Auditorium. People may keep updated on Facebook at facebook. com/lbccjazz. The faculty recital will be presented at the Ruth Todd Concert Hall in Sunday, May 17, at 2 p.m. People may purchase tickets at the door. General admission is $10 and student, employee and senior citizens tickets are $5.
Six Outstanding Colleagues gain recognition President Oakley personally delivers news to award winners.
P111 to announce Frye as one of the Outstanding winners Tuesday at 10 a.m. during a newswriting class. Every year, employees and students submit nominations for the Outstanding Colleague award that are reviewed by the renewBy Marcy Lopez al committee. Frye said, “It’s an Contributing Writer honor to be chosen. …I am very honored and humbled.” In surprise announcements The winners will be honored Monday and Tuesday, May 11 at a special ceremony Wednesday, and 12, six LBCC employees were June 3, at notified they 2:30 p.m. “The greatest reward is seeing my have been in T1200. selected as students graduate and going on T h e Outstanding to live their lives as journalist.” winners of Colleagues the award -Cindy Frye also will be for 2015-16. Journalism Teacher S o ciolopresented gy teacher and full-time teachers on stage at graduation Thursday, union leader Janet Hund, library June 11, at 5 p.m. in Veterans Stasystems technician Ruben Ama- dium. dor, counselor Shauna HageFrye said, “The greatest remann, educational technologist ward is seeing my students graduMonika Mravec, custodial super- ate and going on to live their lives visor Cheryl Williams and part- as journalist.” time journalism professor Cindy Frye said she was shocked and Frye were honored. that it all felt surreal. “When they LBCC President Eloy Oak- said my name, I was like uh?” ley, Dean Paul Creason and the Frye said. renewal committee walked into
CALENDAR
10
May 14, 2015
GRAPHIC GREATNESS
SUMMER CLASSES
SOUNDWAVE
Registration through Sunday, June 14 by 11 p.m. Payment deadline June 16 by 4 p.m. in person or 10 p.m. online Classes will begin Monday, June 22 Enrollment service office will be closed Friday, May 15. No in-person registration.
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
(562) 938-4353 or (562) 938-4846 WORKSHOPS
May 19 and 27 U.C. transfer Tuesday, May 19, from 4-5 p.m. in the LAC A1097 and Wednesday, May 27, from noon-1 p.m. in the LAC A1097 The workshops will review the U.C. transfer admissions guarantee, U.C. Transfer Admissions Planner and basics of U.C. transfer. Students may get an early start on preparing for September applications and November general applications appt.lbcc.edu/esars/transferLAC/eSARS.asp or Call Career and Transfer Services at (562) 938-4670 ASB
Elections Students may vote for their 2015-2016 Cabinet at bit.ly/ ASBElections2015 or vote on campus on Thursday, May 14 at the LAC in front of the A Building from 9 a.m.-1p.m. and 5-7p.m. Students also may apply for one of the eight appointed positions available for the Cabinet at bit.ly/ASBAppointed2015 Application deadline is Monday, May 18, at noon and may be sent to Maya Cardenas in LAC E119 or Pamela Garrison at the PCC, EE102. Interviews will be Friday, May 22, during the ASB Cabinet meeting at 8 a.m. in PCC LL102. asb@lbcc.edu or (562) 938-3985 CULTURAL AFFAIRS
Thursday, May 14 Religious Tolerance in the 21 Century People may learn more about select religions of the world and discuss current issues surrounding religious tolerance within the global community in Dyer Hall 107 at noon. doriee@lbcc.edu or (562) 938-3088
SURVEY
May 15 Student Services Satisfactory Survey Student Support Services are conducting a survey giving students a chance to be heard and enter a drawing for a chance to win Gift Card and Nook. Students may take the survey at bit.ly/1DKWbjt. The survey closes Friday at 5 p.m. VETERANS FAIR
Saturday, May 16 Memorial Day Freedom Fair Hosted by the Veterans Club, on Saturday at the LAC Veterans Stadium. The event hopes to unite students, employees and the surrounding community in remembrance of Memorial Day. The fair will consist of an Army fitness test graded by Army drill sergeants, a Marine Corps combat fitness test, several food eating contests, an inflatable obstacle course and carnival games. lbccvetsclub@gmail.com JAZZ
May 17 Spring jazz faculty recital in LAC G122, Ruth Todd Concert Hall, on Sunday at 2 p.m. General admission $10 Student, employees and senior citizens $5 Ticket sales at the door, cash or check only FINANCIAL AID
May 19 and 21 Financial Aid 101 Qualifying students may get Financial Aid information, cash for college and different kinds of Financial Aid in LAC T1200 on Tuesday, May 19, from noon1 p.m. and in PCC FF107 on Thursday, May 21 from 2-3 p.m. Free lunch and drinks will be offered. RSVP in the Financial Aid office
Cindy Macias/Viking Valerie Ruedo, 20, a graphic design major, paints a landscape in the A Building courtyard for her art class Monday, May 4.
COLLEGE COLOR
Tuesday, June 2 College colors The ASB, LAC Club Senate and the LBCC President’s Ambassadors will sponsor a college colors university reveal day on the LAC Quad from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. to celebrate transfer students, by revealing which school they have committed to by wearing their university apparel or their school colors. LBCC employees also may wear their college gear. Free food and drinks. (562) 938 4978 or (562) 938 4353 EMPLOYEE AWARDS
Wednesday, June 3 Colleague Awards Award winners and recipients of the 5-35 year service awards event in LAC T1200 Auditorium at 2:30 p.m. TEXT ALERTS
LBCC offers a text -based emergency notification service for mobile phones. In event of an emergency, subscribers will be alerted in real-time.
Participation must be made by account holder. For support, text HELP to 55155 (ALERTU) or email support@alertu.org THEATRE
May 14 through 24 ASB and Performing Arts Department Present a British comedy “Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime” directed by Anthony Carreiro in the LAC Studio Theatre from May 14-17 and May 21-24. Thursday- Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Presale general admission $15 Students, employees and senior citizens $10 At the door general admission $17 Students, employees and senior citizens $12 Tickets may be purchased at LBCC.edu/tdf or (866) 811-4111 Box office will open one hour before the performance Free parking in Lots D, E and F
SHADES OF BLACK
May 15 DAAP Annual symposium for Black leaders on culture and knowledge in the LAC T1200 on Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. RSVP at daap.eventbrite. com or Lee Douglas at ldouglas@ lbcc.edu POLICE
LBCC phones extension 4910 Cell phones, (562) 435-6711 or 911 Police emergency from campus phone, 911 Long Beach Police Department (562) 938-4807 or (562) 510-4807 SPORTS
Friday, May 15 Track and Field State Championships at College of San Mateo Saturday, May 16 Track and Field State Championships at College of San Mateo
Doers Do CSULB Summer Sessions 2015
Two 6-Week Sessions May 26 – July 2 (S1S) July 6 – August 14 (S3S)
One 12-Week Session May 26 – August 14 (SSD)
More than 75 Online Summer Classes No formal admission to CSULB required
Enroll on a “space available” basis
Earn units toward your degree
Register Now!
TEACHERS CLUB
Thursday, May 28 Pie-Centage Night Teachers club dinner at Pieology, 5027 Lakewood Blvd. Unit 63-2, Lakewood 90712. 15 percent of the purchase will benefit the club
TEXT ALERTS
(800) 963-2250 x 60001 | info@ccpe.csulb.edu www.ccpe.csulb.edu/summer #DoersDo @CSULBInterSessn
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3/11/15 Lorinda Owens Ad size: 6.06 in. X 5 in.
12:53 PM
OPINION
May 14, 2015
EDITORIAL
School can do better to help homeless students With statistics released by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority indicating more than 44,000 people are out in the streets, it is worrisome that the number is expected to rise. Common stigmas of the homeless conjure images of people wearing tattered clothing in makeshift tents or pushing carts. Less often do we consider the student traveling back and forth between the homes of friends or family, or whose life is packed into the backseat of their car. Neither can we exclude students standing in long lines for a night in a shelter or the children sitting alongside other homeless families at dinner services provided by shelters. Awareness of homelessness is gaining momentum with celebrities like Cyndi Lauper and Miley Cyrus creating organizations to help LGBT homeless youth, who according to the National Coalition for the Homeless, account for 40 percent of people served by homeless agencies. On May 5, Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia spoke with President Obama in Washington, D.C. about the city’s commitment to ending veteran homelessness by the end of 2015.
LBCC has no service specializing in aiding homeless students. All the college can do is refer students to the Long Beach Multi-Service Center, which can turn into a daunting maze of knocking on doors if motivation is lost. Once at the center, visitors must prove their disadvantaged circumstance and experience another cycle of referrals for shelters and resources throughout the city. LBCC has been an innovative leader in the community, particularly in areas surrounding the PCC where many come from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Through its accessibility and affordability, the college’s programs opens doors. From students in the ESL program hoping to master the language as key to their advancement, to students learning a trade to jump-start their career, or high school students entering through Promise Pathways, the resources available help them follow through with their educational goals. However, LBCC has nothing to prevent homeless students from slipping through the system as they strive to succeed and the lack of resources has been noted
by employees and students. It would be useful if an on-campus center was created for helping homeless students and those on the brink of homelessness. Rather than sending students away to seek the services, the center could be the direct link for students and resources scattered throughout the city. Providing a safe space for students to feel comfortable enough to ask for help could reduce the amount of time they struggle due to their circumstances and give them increased control of their lives. Although the services are not available at the college, that should not serve as an excuse to sit idly. Food and clothing donations are welcomed in various organizations around the city. In shelters like the Long Beach Rescue Mission, daily operations depend heavily on volunteers to serve meals and fill backpacks with back-to-school items for homeless children. Whether it is time or tangible goods, our donations have a direct impact and bring us closer to lowering the number of people without a home.
COMMENTARY
11
CITY VIEWS
Have you had any negative experiences with Financial Aid? By Darel James and Will Ranos on Wednesday, May 6, on the LAC
Juan Bugarin, 18, Film and Music major “Several problems with paperwork. I had to refile like four times.”
Carla Arellano, 19, Sociology major “Just the fact that they said a date and it didn’t arrive on time.”
Fernando Cuevas, 22, Registered Nursing major “I didn’t have any difficulties. Taxes are the only thing I had a problem with.”
Frank Nuno, 29, Theatre Arts major “I’ve only applied once. I can’t complain. I’m sure others have problems.”
Eric Crenshaw, 19, Business Administration major “Some of the disbursements have come late. I haven’t gotten my second one yet. Communication is lacking.”
Milan Moliere, 21, Photography major “I was kind of confused about the process. My first one was in a timely manner, my second was delayed.”
Alvia Reed, 19, Psychology major “No. They give it when they say they’ll give it.”
Darlene Maes, 20, Journalism major “The site itself is complicated. It lacks options.”
VIKING STAFF
Technology: helping or hurting? Story and Art by Jon Peacock Staff Writer
In an age filled with Google Glasses and Apple Watches, people literally cannot keep their eyes off their screens, but is an end in sight … no, it isn’t. Young adults, myself included, have become completely obsessed with technology. Don’t get me wrong, technology is great for finding a place to eat or needing to navigate a city you’ve never been in. But has it gone too far. Facebook is bombarded with intimate details about people’s lives, too personal? I don’t necessarily need to know what you think of “Grey’s Anatomy” or your opinion on each of the character’s sex lives. Sure, seeing an old friend’s puppy is cute every once in a while, but having
four full albums of your Sunday brunch with your dog might be a little over-kill. We need to draw a line to keep people who have mastered the overkilled Facebook statuses. Everyone constantly glued to their phones, yearning to see what everyone is up to. Needing to be informed about everyone’s life was once a luxury, but now has become a necessity. Nowadays people can now connect with anyone in the world simply with a press of their thumbs. Some have more interaction over the Internet than they do in real life. Is this the future, is this where we are headed, into an age where face-to-face connectivity is considered old-school? It has gotten to a dangerous tipping point where people would rather not leave their couches all
weekend and binge-watch Netflix while ordering Domino’s, USING THE APP! Sure I love binge-watching Netflix as much as the next guy, but I don’t let it affect my daily life. Almost every day someone nearly walk into me simply because their eyes were glued to their phone screen. So now it has become my mission to find a way to get eyes in the back of my head so that this doesn’t keep happening. At a highly used crosswalk near LBCC’s Veterans Stadium, I struggle to cross every single day due to people not paying attention to where they’re walking or who is about to hit them with a car. Raised by a generation who were all about being proud and keeping their heads held high, can we find a way to get back to that mindset or will our heads continue to be tipped over with our eyes fixed on glowing screens.
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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 Jon Peacock
Sylvana Uribe Irina Nizovtseva
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.
Adviser: Patrick McKean Photo and online adviser: Chris Viola Retired photo adviser: Jim Truitt Student assistant: Charles Hall The deadline for news, advertisements and letters to the editor is the Thursday before publication. The Viking will be published May 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.
TUBE WATER POLO
12
May 14, 2015
Tong splashes toward intramural title
Tong member Julian Diaz, 20, left, races Aztlan member Lexi Mixson, 19, for ball possession during the clubs’ tube water polo game at the LAC. The event was Thursday, May 7, from 2-4 p.m.
Story by Will Ranos Staff Writer Photos by Darel James Staff Photographer
semesters. Oriee mentioned one more intramural game might be scheduled, but if that game does not end up getting played, Tong would win the intramural championship. In what could be the last intramural Gerry Rangel, 34, a psychology major game of the semester, Tong won the inner and member of Tong, said, “We are in first tube water polo game, 2-0, in a best-of- place, but we are a little bummed out we three series against Aztlan in a battle of didn’t win basketball or football. You want men’s social-service clubs Thursday, May to win everything. You want to win the tri7. ple crown.” From challonge.com/users/lbccim, Tong club member Kevin Mehrdady, the website used to record the LBCC in- 20, a registered nursing major, said, “There tramural results, inner tube water polo is a lot of trophies we can get; commuis described as “a nity service, best variation of the events, “We’re all friends and there’s that on-campus sport water polo things like that. with the import- club tension that they want to win We’re already on the ant difference that over us, but at the end of the day, way to winning the players, including intramural title, but the goalkeeper, are we’re just here to have fun.” we are also scholrequired to float in -Kevin Mehrdady ars so we like to do an inflatable inner Tong club member those things too.” tube. This allows Many club casual players to enjoy water polo without members from Tong and Aztlan said that undertaking the intense conditioning re- while they play intramurals to compete, quired for conventional water polo.” having fun is the main reason. The turnout was small to the point that Mehrdady said, “We’re all friends and both teams were allowed to be co-ed to en- there’s that club tension that they want to sure they had enough players. win over us, but at the end of the day, we’re The game consisted of five players for just here to have fun.” each team with 5-minute halves and was a Oriee, who is in charge of running the double-elimination series. Tong ended up intramurals, said, “My goal is to always winning, 3-2 and 2-0. just have a good turnout. I want the stuStudent activities adviser Derek Oriee dents to have a good time and have a nice said Tong is now in sole possession of first experience. Sometimes it gets really complace in the intramural standings. The petitive and sometimes it’s real laid back. standings are based on the results of each In the end I want them to walk away with intramural game from the Fall and Spring a smile.”
Tong club member Juian Diaz, 20, left, shakes hands with Men of Aztlan member Diego Navarro, 20 after their game at the LAC pool.
Tong team member Kevin Mehrdady gives the OK to referee and ASB adviser Derek Oriee before the team battles against Aztlan.
Tong club member Josh De-LaRuiz, 19, a communications major, passes the ball during the men’s social services club’s game against Aztlan. Tong won both games.