March 12, 2015 Volume 88, Issue 11 Published Since 1927

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Former LBCC student charged in animal cruelty case.Page 2

President Oakley will remain at LBCCBy Sylvana UribeStaff Writer

President Eloy Oakley said he intends to stay with the college despite conflict with the Board of Trustees, according to arti-cles released by the Long Beach Press-Telegram in late February.

On Feb. 26, the Press-Tele-gram reported that it had ob-tained a memo sent to the Board on Feb. 17 in which Oakley wrote the college was losing focus as attention was being diverted to addressing problems within the school’s governing body.

Oakley said the college’s ac-creditation was complicated when issues were raised about low mo-rale and communication that needed to improve between the president and the Board.

Oakley wrote, “These disrup-tions have led to several key ex-ecutive team members, including myself, to consider other profes-sional opportunities.”

Oakley was in talks to become chancellor of the Coast Commu-nity College District in Orange County and oversee its three schools, but said he intends to stay with LBCC and found himself not wanting to leave Long Beach.

Area 5 Trustee Virginia Bax-ter said, “I personally am pleased President  Oakley is staying at LBCC. His vision of student suc-cess and the commitment to help our students graduate in a more timely manner are goals I can support.”

On Feb. 6, the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges notified the college that its accreditation was

reaffirmed. The accreditation committee is made up of officials representing 11 Community Col-leges and visited LBCC on Oct. 6-9.

In its report, the commission recommended that actions be taken to “address communication problems and increase transpar-ency and trust.”

In an interview Tuesday, March 3, Area 3 Trustee Sunny Zia said she is looking forward to

working closely with the student body and the district’s employees to gather their input on issues of importance to them. 

Zia said, “The accreditation team raised a number of import-ant issues to us, like low morale. I look forward to working with the superintendent and my colleagues on the Board to focus on these is-sues and see what we can do to improve things. At the end of the day, we want to be effective and

make sure we are doing whatever is necessary to assure the educa-tional and career success of our students.”

The college is expected to sub-mit a follow-up report addressing the committee’s recommenda-tions by March 15, 2016.

At the Board meeting Feb. 24, Vice President Lou Anne Bynum discussed how the college has taken steps to create a three- to five-year plan that would improve

communication and track how the school is perceived by the public.

More than 1,200 phone sur-veys were given to the community in English and Spanish and focus groups were conducted between students and employees. Employ-ees also were sent online surveys, which received a 30 percent re-sponse rate. Recommendations based on the research will be presented to the Board in April.

$55,000 compensation bump for OakleyStudents hope for healthier food optionsKelly MahaffeyStaff Writer

Students are curious about the possible kiosk choices during the ongoing construction in the new Central Quad on LAC.

“Low-key, I’m kind of anx-ious to see what’s going in there. Every morning I expect to be surprised with something cool like a mini-Starbucks or Bonsai Bowl,” said James Eldridge, 19 an undeclared major.

“I get to school on Monday and I’m like WTF? I thought they were done?” Eldridge said.

Olivia Nogales, 18, an eco-nomics major, said she also was

surprised. “Now what are they doing to it? Tearing it down, making it bigger, what?”

A construction worker on the project told students the power outlets and wiring installed on the back, outside wall is defi-nitely for vending machines but he didn’t wish to be quoted. Students within earshot began a discussion about what they want sold from the machines if they have a say.

Travis Swan, 19, a bio-phys-ics major, said, “I’d like to see some vegan options. Things like fruits, veggies, instant oatmeal, chai tea and non-dairy milk.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

By Sylvana UribeStaff Writer

In a 4-1 vote, President Eloy Oakley’s contract was extended an additional two years with a 21 percent compensation increase during the Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday, March 10.

Oakley’s contract was set to end in June 2017, but has been ex-tended until February 2019. In the amended contract, Oakley’s pay is $320,568, up from $264,348 in his original contract.

Area 3 Trustee Sunny Zia voted against the extension. She wanted to make it clear she sup-ports Oakley, but disagreed with the timing and legality of the is-sue.

Zia said to Oakley, “I chal-lenge you and the rest of us to not

dismiss morale issues and tackle them head on. I look to you and your leadership in resolving that.”

After the voting, Oakley pre-sented a report on construction projects. Zia said she was con-cerned with the report’s exclusion of original anticipated completion dates and determining if projects were within their original budget if adjustments kept being made to it.

Area 4 Trustee Doug Otto asked questions be made prior to meeting to narrow down on un-clear aspects about agenda items in open session.

“I will ask those questions because I’m trying to do my job,” Zia said in response to Otto. “It really is an unfair characteristic of a Board member calling to not want to bring up questions and I

ask for you to respect that. I may have disagreements, it’s just a matter of different perspective on policies.”

He asked an item be added in the upcoming meeting to look into how the Board is abiding by the rules and any misconduct.

Before the meeting adjourned, Karen Roberts, part-time teach-ers’ union president at LBCC, spoke about part-time employees being the lowest paid in the dis-trict.

“We’ve fallen behind in our pay. Since I have been doing this for a while, here’s what I think. I think that we just haven’t been able to think outside of the part-time faculty box,” Roberts said.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, at 5 p.m. in T1100.

Darel James/Viking

LISTENING IN: President Eloy Oakley listens as Area 4 Trustee Doug Otto speaks during the Board of Trustees meeting in T1100 at the LAC on March 10.

NEWS2 March 12, 2015

Are you going with us?

TAP &Go!The TAP card is the best way to get where you’re headed. It’s simple to use, valid on

Long Beach Transit and many other local transit systems, and you can even add our

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By Hunter KingCity Style Editor

Long Beach Transit installed the transit access pass, or TAP, on all its buses starting Feb. 8.

The new TAP card system should make public transit sim-pler for students who transfer from other bus agencies to Long Beach Transit, as most transit agencies in Los Angeles County have now adopted it, according to Metro.

The plastic TAP card is an eco-friendly, reusable alternative to the traditional paper passes. It also is more efficient to swipe the TAP censor located on the left-hand side of the boarding door, rather than present a paper ticket to the driver.

One-day and five-day passes are still available for purchase, but all other paper passes have been discontinued.

Film major Savana Turner, 19, said she agrees the TAP cards are more efficient. However, she still doesn’t favor public transporta-tion, saying, “I always carry pep-per spray.”

TAP cards may be purchased and replenished at the Long Beach Transit and Visitor Infor-mation Center at 130 Pine Ave. in downtown Long Beach, as well as stops along the Metro Blue Line, or online for $1 plus desired fare. The phone number is (866) TAP-TOGO (827-8646).

Full-time college students may apply for a monthly TAP card

at a reduced price of $40 from the regular $65 fare. Applications are available online at taptogo.net/re-ducedfare.php.

Students should be prepared to submit a full-face photo, proof of enrollment, and $1 application fee payable by check or money order to Metro, according to the official TAP website.

Long Beach Transit may

provide an inexpensive and less stressful alternative to driving in traffic and parking far from class.

Julianna Maidana, 20, a child care major, rides the bus to LBCC when she doesn’t feel like search-ing for a parking spot. Maidana said, “It gives me, ‘me time.’”

More information may be found online at lbtransit.com, metro.net, or taptogo.net.

Bus riders adapt to TAP

Hunter King/ViKing

SWIPE: Dina Tucker, 20, an art history major, swipes her TAP card to pay fare on a Long Beach Transit bus March 2 at the LAC.

Accused cat-killer sparks web chatterFormer student charged with one count of felony animal abuse.By Kelly MahaffeyStaff Writer

Former LBCC student Sergei Smirnoff, 23, was arrested in Re-dondo Beach on Dec. 24 on sus-picion of animal cruelty, the dai-lybreeze.com reported.

Police were called to the scene after a 911 call was made by a wit-ness who saw Smirnoff strangle the cat with his bare hands then throw the animal onto a concrete garage floor, police said.

Smirnoff could not be reached for comment.

Redondo Beach police Sgt. Shawn Freeman reported that it appeared Smirnoff intended to give the cat to his estranged girl-friend as a peace offering and Christmas gift, hoping the gesture would reconcile the relationship.

After the gesture was rejected, Freeman said Smirnoff allegedly flew into a fit of rage, resulting in the brutal death of the cat.

The cat, named Roxy, was a 3-5 year-old female Smirnoff had rescued from a shelter about one week before the incident. The girlfriend, who remains anony-mous, did not know about the

killing until after learning news of Smirnoff ’s arrest, reports said.

On Dec. 29 at his arraignment, Smirnoff was officially charged with one count of felony animal abuse to which he pleaded not guilty and ordered to reappear on Jan. 12, court records show.

Smirnoff posted the $20,000 bail and was released Jan. 4, ac-cording to the inmate locator on lasd.org. On Feb. 26, while out on bond, Smirnoff was arrested again, this time in Torrance, po-lice said. The felony charges are pending while he remains in cus-tody, bail now at $60,000, records reveal.

Lon Hall from Facebook wrote “There isn’t enough toilet paper in the world for turds like this.”

On Petition Hub, Katherine Stevens has enlisted 867 signa-tures calling for stiff sentencing for Smirnoff if convicted.

LBCC student Dakota Jen-kins, 20, an undeclared major, said, “I feel bad for the cat but at least it wasn’t the girlfriend.”

Lydia Sanchez, 19, an English major, said, “It’s pretty creepy knowing someone I went to school with is capable of commit-ting such a violent act on an inno-cent animal.”

Raelynn Ramirez, 18, an un-declared major, said, “If he really is guilty of killing that cat, then I hope he goes to jail for a long time. It’s just sick and pathetic.”

Marcy Lopez/Viking

INTEREST IN JOURNALISM: A reporter for the Jerusalem Post, Etgar Lefkovits, speaks Tuesday, Feb. 24, to the newswriting class at LBCC about his experiences covering news in Israel.

NEWS 3March 12, 2015

Jerusalem reporter speaks about Mideast coverage

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March 27 tour open to first 22 students from PCC and LAC. By Sylvana UribeStaff Writer

The Cultural Affairs Commit-tee is giving students the oppor-tunity to learn about one of the worst 20th century wartime acts of discrimination by visiting the Museum of Tolerance on Friday, March 27.

Alberto Moreno, 23, a Span-ish literature major and chair of the Cultural Affairs Committee said, “Cultural affairs is all about promoting cultural awareness and student diversity because LBCC is a multicultural college.

“The Museum of Tolerance focuses on the Holocaust, but also on understanding discrimi-nation and prejudices which fits with the committee’s mission.”

As of March 9, students can begin reserving their seats at the cashier’s office from the campus they intend to depart from. A $5

non-refundable, cash-only depos-it is needed at the time of sign-up. The sign-up period is open until all 22 seats are filled.

One van with room for 11 people will depart from each campus at 12:30 p.m.

Students departing from the PCC will meet with Student Life coordinator Derek Oriee in Lot 7 and students departing from the LAC will meet with Maya Carde-nas, also a Student Life coordina-tor, in Lot G.

Students will receive a person-al guided tour from the museum’s

staff. Students are expected to return around 5:30 p.m. and are encouraged to bring snacks with them as food will not be provided.

Brian Chavez, 20, a history major, said he supports field trips as a necessary part of the learning process and in experiencing what is taught in a class setting.

Chavez said, “It is important to take students beyond the bor-ders of a lecture and the bindings of a book. To be surrounded by stories, people, objects and cul-ture is an enriching part of a per-son’s education.”

Ryan Shepard, 20, an urban and regional planning major and president’s ambassador, said, “Go-ing to the Museum of Tolerance is an extremely powerful experience I’d recommend to any serious stu-dent of history or contemporary issues. The museum gives atten-tion to other modern genocides and helps us see our own biases and prejudices.”

Students may contact Student Life or visit the cashier’s office for more information. The cashier’s office at the PCC is in MD143 and in A1075 at the LAC.

Journalist visits class to talk about history and terrorism. By Marcy LopezContributing Writer

Jerusalem journalist Etgar Lefkovits said Tuesday, Feb. 24, that his field is “thrilling and I love it.”

Speaking to the Journalism 20 newswriting class, he explained he has been a military corre-spondent for the Israeli army, a correspondent for the Jerusalem Post and has worked for the New York Times.

Lefkovits now visits colleges and universities and makes pre-sentations on foreign affairs, me-dia, the Middle East and current events. He studied literature and

Cultural Affairs panel schedules Museum of Tolerance trip

said he loved it, but, “I have al-ways had an interest in journal-ism, it is my passion.” Lefkovits is informed on many Middle East

topics, including the moderate and extremist camps. In the ex-tremist camp, Iran and Syria are included. Lefkovits said, “Bad

guys stick together. Their finger-prints can be found on any terror in the Middle East.” He also said, “I like to call Syria the Grand

Central Station of terror.” Since Lefkovits spoke to a

classroom filled with journalism students, he said that what makes a good journalist is a reporter who can get the human interest side to a story, “Someone who can go beyond,” he said.

The students asked many questions about politics, the Ho-locaust, the dangers of covering violence and U.S. involvement in the region.

Even though the media has associated the Middle East with terrorism, Lefkovits spoke about many of the positive things going on there such as archaeological findings.

He also said how despite the violence, tourism has increased. Lefkovits said, “History repeats itself. You can’t ignore history. You have to learn from history.”

CITYSTYLE4 March 12, 2015

Theater presents ‘Kill me Deadly’

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Also in favor of healthy choic-es in vending machines are Jayden Scoval, 19, an undeclared major, and Taylor Warner, 20, an earth science major. They want to see vegan options, smoothies, yogurt and anything gluten-free.

Caffeinated items such as en-ergy drinks, organic coffee and boba tea were popular sugges-tions. Sailor Shannon, 19, a ma-rine biology major said, “They

Healthier vending food demanded

JAMMING

Cindy MaCias/Viking

Sociology major Felipe Mora Vera, 25, sings and plays his guitar as a way to decompress from study-ing Wednesday, March 4, outside the Nordic Lounge. Open mic nights are presented monthly on Friday from 7-9 p.m. in P104.

should have a machine with those glass-bottled Starbucks frapps and espresso shots.”

Except for a few suggestions for a vape oil vending machine, the majority of students wanted healthy choices that were afford-able and tasted good.

In a Dec. 12 forbes.com arti-cle, healthy choice vending ma-chines are outpacing traditional snack vending machines 4 to 1 and are the fastest growing fran-chise business the market today.

Forbes reports college campuses nationwide are replacing exist-ing machines and vendors with new, designer, healthy choice vending that sell fresh, organic, gluten-free, vegetarian meals and choices.

An ASB cabinet member was contacted to confirm manage-ment of the kiosk and if food will be dispensed. President Lokilani Hunt did not have enough infor-mation to share at this time but said to check back next semester.

By Tyisha AliStaff Writer

A mystery spoof of dark Hol-lywood in the 1940s is set to hit the main stage of LBCC with the presentation of “Kill Me Deadly,” written by Bill Robens.

The LBCC Performing Arts Department will show a parody of a classic film noir. The play is directed by Gregory Mortensen. The term film noir is used to describe lavish Hollywood: the crimes, drama, sensual motives and the attitude of the 1940s and early 1950s.

Charlie Nickels, played by theatre arts major Jason Bowe, 34. Nickels, a Los Angeles pri-vate detective, is investigating the murder of a wealthy client and the theft of a priceless one-of-a-kind diamond. With the help of his secretary, Nickels must uncover how his client is murdered, who is the assassin and who stole the diamond. Throughout the case, Nickels is challenged to weed out many suspects when he comes across a femme fatale, Mona Liv-ingston, played by theatre arts major Melinda Deltoro, 25, who captures his attention. Investigat-ing the case forces him to ques-tion who he should trust. The play is intended to keep the audience guessing and laughing until the end.

Bowe said, “People should

come see this play because it’s funny first of all and they should also come to support the arts.”

Deltoro said, “This play is for everyone, it’s a good time and we have put in a lot of work into this.”

Mortensen said, “I haven’t done a play this big in a while, there are multiple characters and sets.”

For the play, the students from the theatre arts program collabo-rated with contracted profession-als to design and create many of the sets and props.

Mortensen said, “Everyone should come see this play, hon-estly, because comedy done well is always welcomed particularly now in these crazy times.”

The play will be staged in the LAC Auditorium on Thurs-day-Saturday, March 12-14, at 8 p.m., Sunday, March 15, at 2 p.m., Thursday-Friday, March 19-20 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, March 21, at 2 and 8 p.m.

“Kill Me Deadly” tickets are on presale at $15 for general ad-mission and $10 for students, em-ployees and senior citizens. At the door general admission is $17 and $12 for students, employees and senior citizens. Purchases may be made at lbcc.edu/tdf or 1 (866) 811-4111. The theater box office will be open one hour before the performance. LBCC has provided free parking in Lots D, E and F.

Brandon richardson/Viking

Flex Day is a day for teachers to attend meetings, workshops and seminars and for students to enjoy a break from classes. However, for every Flex day, inevitably some students forget and show up to campus to find it deserted. Phillip Nou, 30, a fire science and social work major, was one of these students Tuesday, March 11. He said, “I was excited to hear my astronomy professor’s lecture. I’m a little bummed out. I wasted gas and I bought some food. But it’s all right though, it’s all for a positive cause.”

LAC(562) 938-4485A 1075Office hours:Monday-Thursday8 a.m.-6 p.m.Friday8 a.m.-noonSaturday-SundayClosedPCC(562) 938-4485MD146Office hours:Monday-Thursday8 a.m.-6 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m.-noonSaturday-SundayClosedLimited services on Friday:Specialists are unavailable, front desk is open for questions only from noon-4:30 p.m.

More information or a better understanding of the internal Revenue Service data retriev-al tool, California Dream Act, correcting the FAFSA, student loans and veterans’ Benefits is available by watching Financial Aid videos on the topics and more at the college website.

CALENDARMarch 12, 2015 5

LIBRARY HOURS

IMPORTANT DATES ENROLLMENT SERVICES

SHUTTLE SERVICE

ONE MAN STANDS ALONE

PCC -Building LLMonday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Sunday: closed

LAC- Building LMonday-Thursday: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.Friday: 7 a.m.-4 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.Sunday: closed

LAC(562) 938-4485A 1075Office hours:Monday-Thursday8 a.m.-6 p.m.Friday8 a.m.-noonSaturday-SundayClosed

PCC(562) 938-4485MD146Office hours:Monday - Thursday8 a.m.-6 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m.-noonSaturday - SundayClosedLimited services on Friday:Specialists are unavailable, front desk is open for questions only from noon-4:30 p.m.

Los Angeles Campus5245 Pacific Concourse Drive(310) 662-2000

© 2015 National University NU15_2080

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That’s 2,400 pizzas aminute. 350 slices asecond. Delicious. Learneven more earning abachelor’s degree from National University. Online. On campus. Non-profit.

Don’t think you have time to learn something new? You just did.

Art Gallery: Last day Thursday, March 12.

LBCC’s performing arts department and the ASB will present:“Kill Me Deadly” March 12-21 at the LAC auditorium. To purchase tickets, go to LBCC.edu/tdf.

Nursing Application program deadline is on Friday, March 13.

Sociology Department presents: “Tapped”, A critical documen-tary on the business of tapped water. Film screenings on Thursday, March 12 in T1300 at LAC.

Brain Fitness Program: Brain HQ computer games that have been shown to improve memory and five other brain functions, brain processing speed, attention, people skills, intelligence and navigation-al skills, at PCC, on March 11-April 1, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednes-days. For more information, call (562)-938-3047.

Makeup Artistry 101:March 17 to 26 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. $325 registration Fee $25 material fee. For more information, call (562)-938-3252.

Puente Project and Puente Club: Author and inspirational speak-er at PCC on March 19 at noon in the Dyer Hall FF107

Spring Sing Application:Deadline is on Friday, March 13 at 11:30 a.m.

Society of Women Geogra-phers to present: Science and Slander. March is Women’s History Month and the society of Woman Geogra-phers is presenting a talk on March 14 at LAC in D318.

ASB grant applications avail-able now:2015-2016 ASB grants appli-cation is available. The applica-tion deadline is Friday, March 13, by noon.

LBCC horticulture:Plant sale for two weekends in March and April on Friday, March 27 with plant sale hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and April 4 and 5 at PCC Horticulture garden.

FOOD COURT

TEXT ALERTS

The Viking Voyager runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to both campus-es. Bus runs every 30 minutes. No departure to LAC until after 10:30 a.m.

The Food Court is located at LAC in Building E, Mon-day-Thursday 7 a.m. to 7p.m. and Fridays 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

LBCC offers a text-based emer-gency notification service for your mobile phone. In the event of an emergency, subscribers will be alerted in real-time on important campus safety and

security information. Participation must be made by the account holder. For support, text HELP to 55155 (ALERTU) or email support@alertu.org

TEXT ALERTS

Monday-Thursday7:30 a.m.-7 p.m.TuesdayClosedFriday7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

BOOKSTORE HOURS

The Viking Express convenience store offers hot and cold food and beverages, coffee, snacks,

VIKING EXPRESS

scantrons, test forms and other basic school supplies. At LAC, T1305, the Viking Express is open on most Saturdays and also open late Monday through Thursday.

VIKING EXPRESS

HOME SPORTS

Softball: Friday, March 13, at 1 p.m. vs Allan Hancock and Southwestern at 3 p.m.Women’s tennis: Thursday, March 12, at 2 p.m. vs. Desert.Men’s volleyball: Friday, March 13, at 6 p.m. vs. Pierce.Baseball: Saturday, March 14, at noon vs. Los Angeles Harbor.

How often should people be tested for STDs and why?

Veronica Scott, 46,child deVelopment major

“At least once a year even if you are monogamous be-cause STDs are part of soci-ety today.”

marilyn jimenez, 23,muSic major

“After having sex with a new partner to make sure they didn’t have an STD, you never know.”

Britnie militar, 24,film major

“Depending on your sexual activity, but I think at least two or three times a month. Even more often if you are more sexually active.”

jeremy aSkgard, 22,film major

“After every partner, for ob-vious reasons.”

jameS keen, 25,Baking major

“Logically, after intercourse as soon as possible. Con-traceptives are only 97 per-cent effective.”

mani dominguez, 20,muSic education major

“At least every month, if sexually active, for your own health and to make sure you don’t pass on an STD to anyone else.”

Compiled by Kelly Mahaffey and Brandon Richardson on Monday March 9, 2015 on the LAC.

Library as student haven

Universal ‘Big Bang’ bashOPINION

EDITORIAL

Paul Ingvaldsen

CITY VIEWS

OPINION6 March 12, 2015

VIKING STAFF

Editor in chief: Brandon RichardsonManaging editor : Arieel AlcarazSocial media editor: Jessica De SotoOpinion editor: Paul IngvaldsenCitystyle editor: Hunter KingSports editor: Will RanosAdvertising manager: Michael Olszewski

Staff:Tyisha AliArnold JamesDarel JamesCindy MaciasKelly MahaffeyJon Peacock

The deadline for news, advertisements and letters to the editor is the Thursday before publication.The Viking will be published March 26, April 16 and 30, May 14 and 28. 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, Tele-phone (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 Associ-ation, 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, adminis-tration or the ASB. First copy free, each additional $1.

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.

lbccviking.comFacebook.com/lbccvikingnews

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vikingnews@lbcc.edu

Sylvana UribeBrianna Vega

Adviser: Patrick McKeanPhoto and Online adviser: Chris ViolaRetired photo adviser: Jim TruittStudent assistant: Charles Hall

By Paul IngvaldsenOpinion Editor

A new under-standing of the age of life throughout the universe, from the “Big Bang” until now, has emerged among modern astronomers. LBCC assistant as-tronomy professor Amy Fredericks ex-plains,

“Life could not have existed for a long time after the ‘Big Bang,’ because there were so many gamma ray bursts.”

Gamma rays are emitted when atom bombs explode and stars die. Astronomers generally agree, during the early life of the universe, many stars are giant suns that go supernova and col-lapse quickly. Being larger, their

life cycle is shorter. When they collapse, mega stars emit gam-

ma rays so destructive, no DNA can form. By the time the universe be-comes less radioactive and cools down, matter has dispersed across millions of light years.

“The Sun and the planets formed about 4.5 billion years ago,” Freder-icks said, “evolving into all these life forms. I’m not a biologist, so I don’t know

the specifics of it, but as soon as things settled down and life could develop, it did.”

Considering the possibility of parallel universes, wherein life develops under the same general conditions as we evolve from the same universal birth time, Fred-ericks expressed a note of caution.

“In galaxies,” she said, “there

are some stars that live a long time so any civilization in their star system could still be going strong, much more advanced than us.”

Last year astronomers launched a rocket to orbit an as-teroid in deep space. Once the orbit was established, a probe was sent to the surface. After a rough landing, it fell out of position into a shadow. Transmitting briefly, it lost power. The solar batteries were unable to recharge until this Spring, when the sun will shine upon the probe again.

Inspired by many new dis-coveries in space, including the possibility of parallel universes throughout the galaxies, ambi-tious engineering students are reportedly preparing to launch a mission seeking the LBCC Pres-ident Eloy Oakley double in the nearest alternate universe.

The Libraries at LBCC serve a great purpose for students to interact with books out of the shelves.

Libraries have massive areas where students can come in and isolate themselves to prepare for the next big exam or just get some quiet time. We feel that LBCC students should take time to enjoy the room given to us rather than letting it be just a waste of space.

The Library gives an oppor-tunity for students to take advan-tage of learning and acknowledge the staff members willing to tutor us.

Many users of the Libraries are not fully aware of what kind of resources are provided. Staff members are there to help pro-vide many ways to learn. Students should be acknowledging the fact

that Libraries can accommodate us in many important ways.

Some students may not be aware we can check out movies or music for our own personal usage. Not many of us know this, but the Libraries have VHS videos stocked on shelves. If we still own VHS, we should take advantage of the services.

At peak times, the Libraries’ study areas are filled to capacity, so library officials strongly rec-ommend LBCC students plan to takes steps to meet the demand.

The Libraries have an orga-nized collection of sources ac-cessible for students to help find some references or borrowing books, movies or music.

The Libraries should not only be a place to study, but a sanctu-ary.

paul ingValdSen/Viking

paul ingValdSen/Viking

SPORTS 7March 12, 2015

PRACTICE IN THE POOL

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Turnovers, fouls cost women’s basketball team title hopes.By Will RanosSports Editor

The Vikings’ women’s basket-ball team had a short stint in the SoCal Regional Playoffs, losing to the Palomar Comets, 51-45, in the second round.

LBCC had the game tied at, 45-45, going into the last 2 min-utes and 28 seconds, but Palomar’s Jessica Scott and Keisha Cox were

LBCC’s season endsable to make some clutch shots down the stretch. They combined for six points in the final two minutes of the game. The Vikings were given a few opportunities, but they struggled to make free throws down the stretch.

Turnovers and fouls were ul-timately what cost the Vikes their season. LBCC had 26 turnovers and sent the Comets to the foul line 22 times where they convert-ed 16 of them. The Vikings made more shots on 13 less attempts, but the mistakes were too much to overcome for the Vikes.

Sophomore center Darshana Taafua, with 15 points and seven

LBCC softball youth and inexperience lead to loss. By Jon PeacockStaff Writer

The LBCC Vikings softball team suffered a 16-6 loss to the Cerritos Falcons, the 2014 South-ern Coast Conference Champi-ons, on Tuesday, March 10.

In the top of the first inning, LBCC freshman right-fielder Va-nessa Valdez hit a sacrifice fly al-lowing freshman shortstop Brian-na Alvarez to score. In the bottom of the first, the Falcons’ Krystal Purkey hit a grand slam for a 4-1 lead.

In the second inning, Cerritos blew it open with Purkey hitting a 3-run homer and Karissa Hamil-ton hitting a grand slam. Then in the bottom of the fourth Jenni-fer Navarro hit a solo home run, pushing the score to 12-1.

Despite their deficit, the Vi-kings were still upbeat, chanting nonstop and continuously cheer-

ing on each one of their team-mates when at bat.

In the fourth inning, the Vi-kings seemed to come alive with sophomore catcher Jenny Santia-go hitting a 2-run homer. Fresh-man pitcher Amber Helguera and freshman second baseman Erika Balboa each hit an RBI single in the fourth. The Vikings scored all five runs with two outs.

With the rally, LBCC cut the lead to 13-6.

In the bottom of the fourth, the Falcons’ Crystal Cano hit an RBI double. With one on-base, Parkey hit her third home run for the final 16-6 score. The game ended after 5 innings due to the 10-run mercy rule.

For the Vikings, the loss was a tough one against the former South Coast conference champi-ons. The Vikings’ team is made up of four sophomores and 13 freshmen. Coach Melissa Angel explained that with a young team, everything is a learning experi-ence and how it is important for everyone to get to know everyone and making sure that everyone is simply having fun.

rebounds, and sophomore guard Armani Wiley, with 10 points, six rebounds and four assists, were again the leaders for the Vikings.

Despite their loss in the play-offs, the Vikes still had a success-ful season, finishing 17-11 in the regular season and 5-3 in their conference.

Robert Hewitt, ASB repre-sentative of athletics, said, “The members of the LBCC women’s basketball team are among the best this state has to off. I believe their performance at the SoCal Regional Playoffs will do nothing less than push them to work hard-er next season.”

Vikings positive despite 16-6 loss

Cindy MaCias/Viking

LBCC’s Alfonso Carmona swims the butterfly stroke during practice Wednesday, March, 11. In the Cuesta Invitational on March 6, the LBCC men’s team placed fourth in total points with 333. The women’s team finished 14th with 52 points. The next meet is at Cerritos College on Friday, March 13.

Jon PeaCoCk/Viking

DEFEATED: Sophomore pitcher Mary Gonzales sits down after be-ing pulled from the circle. LBCC lost to the defending conference champ, Cerritos Falcons, 16-6, on Tuesday, March 10.

D.A PhilliPs/Viking

DRIVING IN: LBCC guard Michael Shivers gets cut off by East L.A defender in the first half.

SPORTS8 March 12, 2015

Vikings collapse in 2nd half, 92-73

CITY SPORTS

Fourth round playoff loss ends season.By Will RanosSports Editor

Despite a game-high 29 points and 10 rebounds from LBCC sophomore guard Brandon Sta-ton, the Vikings’ men’s basketball team lost to East Los Angeles, 92-73, in the fourth round of the Southern California Region-al Playoffs on Saturday, March 7, ending their season.

The Vikes had a productive year, going 23-7 on the season and coming up two games shy of the state championship game.

On the Vikings’ season and making it to the fourth round of the playoffs, Staton said, “People were counting us out and didn’t think we could make it this far. We fought to get here. It was a great season.”

In their round 2 match up against Chaffey in the playoffs on Feb. 27, LBCC won, 53-50, with a balanced scoring attack. Sophomore guards Elijah Gaines and Staton each led the team in scoring with 11 points. Freshman forward Davarrus Bryant had nine points to go along with eight rebounds and five blocks. As a team, the Vikings out rebounded Chaffey, 52-39.

On having so many peo-ple contribute to the win, coach Barry Barnes said, “In practice we prepared, everyone had to be ready to shoot. We are going to do what we do.”

With four of their five starters scoring in double digits, LBCC pulled out another tight victory in round 3 over Mt. San Antonio, 75-72, on Tuesday, March 3. Sta-ton led the team with 22 points

and seven rebounds. Freshman guard Michael Shivers had a hot shooting night with 19 points on 5-of-9 shooting and also going 8-10 from the free throw line.

In their fourth round match up with East L.A., the Vikings started the game strong. Going into halftime, the Vikes led 44-42. Staton was hot in the first half, picking up 16 points and doing a lot of work from the free throw line, going 7-9 from the stripe. The game got away from the Vi-kings in the second half though.

D.A PhilliPs/Viking

APPLAUSE: LBCC’s Brandon Staton gets a round of applause as he heads to the sidelines after picking up his fifth foul in his final home game against East L.A. LBCC lost, 92-73. Staton had the only double-double of the game with 29 points and 10 rebounds on Saturday, March 7, in the Hall of Champions.

Baseball: The Vikings’ base-ball team is on a six-game win streak, bringing its record to 8-7 on the season. They recently had three consecutive wins over El Camino in the span of five days. They also added a win over Los Angeles Harbor, 5-4, on Tuesday, March 10. Sophomore shortstop Michael Thomas was 3-5 from the plate with two RBIs and two runs scored. Sophomore first base-

man Tanner Levine was also 3-5 from the plate with one RBI. The Vikes’ next two games are against L.A. Harbor with the first one away on Thursday, March 12, at 2:30 p.m. and the sec-ond one at home on Saturday, March 14, at noonMen’s volleyball: After a hot start to the season, the Vikings are now 6-3 losing their last two games to El Camino and Santa Monica each by a score

of 3-1. Freshman outside hitter Jeffrey Utupo is averaging 3.69 kills per set on the season and has a .268 hitting percentage. As a team, LBCC is averaging 9.41 kills per set, a .227 hitting percentage and 8.25 assists per set. The Vikes’ next game is a conference match up at home with Pierce on Friday, March 11 at 6 p.m.Track and field: In the Cal State Los Angeles Invitational

on Friday, March 6, and Satur-day, March 7, Bayron Manuel placed first in the second heat and fifth overall of the men’s 110-meter hurdles. In the men’s 400-m hurdles. Sophomore Travis Thomas finished second and freshman Kedrick Miller third in the second heat. Thom-as finished fifth overall while Miller finished eighth. Sopho-more Jose Ochoa finished third in the men’s shot put Friday

and first in the men’s javelin throw Friday. In the women’s 400-m hurdles, sophomore Da-nasia Richards finished second in the second heat and fourth overall. In the women’s javelin throw Friday, Jocelyn Ochoa placed first. The Vikings’ next meet is Friday, March 13 at Oc-cidental College for the Oxy Distance Carnival and Sprints Festival.

They were outscored, 50-29, in the second and shot a dismal 28 percent from the field. East L.A. was also able to shoot 50 percent from the field and got to the line 32 times, making 24 of them.

Staton said, “They worked harder. That’s really it, they just fought harder than us.”

On his Twitter account, Viking sophomore guard Chris Spencer, said, “Never going to hate on the next team or next man. East L.A. was the better team.”

D.A PhilliPs/Viking

FLOATER: Brandon Staton attempts a shot over Huskies defender. Staton had 16 points in the first half.