Museum Volume 27, Issue 6 WWW.BROWARD.EDU/STUDENTLIFE/PUBLICATIONS/OBSERVER/PAGES/DEFAULT March 26th, 2013

The Broward College

Newspaper Campus News James Brutus, an artist from the Artist Arts Series at North Campus. Seahawks becoming future leaders natalie von cieminski ON PAGE 2 central bureau chief Centerspread Have you ever wondered who Ever wonder what shows those students are that welcome you the Observer staff is going at the New Student Orientation, crazy about? Here is your take you on a campus tour or set up the beautiful venue of various chance to find out. events (including graduations) ON PAGE 10-11 while maintaining a smile on their BC Spotlight faces at all times? If you’re still Read about the foxes who speculating, here is the answer: the have ruled South Campus Student Ambassadors. Student Ambassadors provide for the past 18 years. assistance to the college community and prospective students in the ON PAGE 15 transition from high school or Opinion work to BC. The Ambassadors are Read about a college also involved in greeting at special occasions, answering questions, student’s trip to The Miami conducting campus tours, assisting Herald. with new student orientations and collaborating with enrollment ON PAGE 19 service officers on all campuses. Sometimes they also visit nearby Ambassadors from Central Campus. Courtesy/ Broward College Backpage schools and other off-campus sites. Read a Q&A featuring “Our two fold mission was had to be developed. “I would and needs that the college has, Being an ambassador has many Actor James Franco and to create leaders and have those read about best practices at other an organization that “would be benefits. “Once you get exposed to his latest movie leaders that are empowered with colleges and universities and they specifically focused on this task” the student ambassador program, knowledge and information to serve established what they call Student was formed as a solution. one of the first things you do is ON PAGE 20 not only our internal community Ambassadors which would be Asencio collaborated with meet new people. Then you will but external community,” said students who were trained by us to Central Campus Student Life discover new things about yourself Want More Observer? David Asencio, Dean of Student be leaders, high-achieving students Director, Jose Lopez, in order to as well,” said Beverly Evans who is Affairs at Central Campus. in terms of their course work and create a handbook that comprises one of the assisting Ambassadors. theobservernews.blogspot.com has Before the Ambassador volunteers in the community,” said all of the program’s regulations Through these experiences you can updates on Articles, Entertain- program was established between Asencio. and instructions. Further, both learn to overcome your shyness, ment, Sports and Much More. 2008 to 2009, students from the “What we wanted to do was to developed the Ambassador logo. get out of your comfort zone and Student Life Department or other create a comprehensive program to “Royalty for us was Broward improve your public speaking Check Out: club leaders were asked to help address the various service needs College. So that’s why on top of skills.

out during events and campus that we have at Central Campus.” the “A” we’ve put the crown,” said theobservernews.blogspot.com tours. To avoid that, a new idea In order to meet these challenges Asencio. See leaders, page 2

Museum on OZ will take you back in time the 4th floor Brittany White magic tricks in a one man show. Staff Writer Then after a fight with a couple Daniel gaviria of audience members, Oscar flees staff writer Oz: The great and powerful the area, jumping into his hot air wizard! Are you sure? That is the balloon, only to head straight into Nearly every day at Central real question behind Disney’s OZ the eye of a tornado. It is after Campus, students walk the the Great and Powerful, based he awakens from the torturous hallways towards their classes or on the wonderful book by L. spinning that caused him to pass mindlessly wander around texting, Frank Baum. Disney’s OZ was out, that we are welcomed to the talking or simply being distracted, directed by Sam Raimi (Spiderman first sight of the magical land of never noticing the many pictures Trilogy), and stars James Franco, OZ (now in color). and posters on the walls. Only a Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams After some drifting, Oscar’s handful of students stop and notice and Rachel Weisz. This movie has balloon sinks into a river and he some areas like Building 14, where been creating a lot of buzz in the is greeted by the beautiful witch they have a display of old black entertainment industry, and plenty Theodora the Good (Mila Kunis), and white pictures where one is of of endorsements from the who tells him all about the land of a group of men and women from Style Network, to Urban Decay, OZ and how they have waited for the 1970’s describing their process and even a nail polish line from a powerful wizard to come to their of applying to the college, along OPI. land and defeat the evil witch, who with another of a group of Broward So with all these big brands killed their king and surrounded College cheerleaders from 1971. standing behind it, does the movie them with danger. Oscar fools This all is interesting have all the magical charm and Theodora into believing his is information for the wandering eye, pizzazz that the media is expecting? the wizard they’ve been waiting but for those with a curious mind, Well let’s just say at 22 years old, I for, and together they start their it leads to another inscription on felt like a little kid all over again, journey to the kingdom, and the display, a large one stating mystified with wonder and awe at along the way, fall in love, much to “Broward College Archives and the brilliance of this colorful and Oscar’s dismay. Special Collections, Library 4th magical land of OZ. floor.” The movie opens in black and white with Oscar/Oz (James Franco) in Kansas performing See oz, page 13 Collider.com See museum, page 2 February 19th, 2013 CAMPUS NEWS Page 2 James Brutus makes an appearance at North Kyle Swenson Illinois Senate seat, which the Staff Writer former Governor of Illinois, Blagojevich, attempted to sell. On Feb. 20, Broward College Brutus explained that having his North Campus had its fifth in a picture published in the series of seven art presentations. Tribune was very vindicating to This presentation artist and host him, because it proved that he was was the artist James Brutus. actually successful in his artistic James Brutus is an artist whose field. art depicts peace, war and nature. Over the next couple years, He presented his rather diverse Brutus’ artwork took a very art, ranging from what he called interesting turn. He began “commercial art” to his most recent depicting children caught in the art, which is truly magnificent. middle of the ongoing conflict in At the beginning of his the Middle East. These pictures presentation, Brutus discussed some were truly powerful and amazing. of his biggest accomplishments to As Brutus discussed how he created date. One of his largest and most these artistic masterpieces, you interesting accomplishments to could see an expression of awe and date is his political cartoon. wonder on the faces of everyone This cartoon was featured a few in the audience. It was the first years ago in the Chicago Tribune. time many people in the audience It depicted Rod Blagojevich, the had seen war through a child’s former Governor of Chicago expression. crowning Ronald Burris king. This Brutus’ artwork is truly political cartoon, he explained, incredible. I urge everyone to go depicted the scandal that ensued and experience his art work in in Chicago in 2008. This was after person at the Broward College Art former Senator Barack Obama Gallery on Las Olas. You will get became president. to see the numerous masterpieces Photo courtesy of www.artisabout.com Thus, Obama left a vacant of this inspiring and creative artist. Piece by James Brutus Museum on 4th floor features historic items museum, page 1 large open sign leading to what college, and examine museum history scattered among all the Although the museum is open this really is, a museum. Opening pieces, but also come here for campuses. When the South Florida for everyone, is it emphasized for Upon visiting the 4th floor, the door and coming inside the research projects and photography museum of history closed in 2005, the students to know about it one is mesmerized by the many room, Andrew Dukta, the Special projects, and it’s a great asset many artifacts and items were and are able to experience a little artifacts located on the 4th floor of Collections/ Archives Librarian, for students along with Student transferred to BC, and in 2008 a history while they are at BC. So the campus library. stays attentive at the opening door Life intramural sports and the room was dedicated in the Central for those who didn’t know of the Following the path of to all who come in; and can help planetarium,” said Dutka. Campus library for the 23,000 Broward College museum, stop mummified bones, to ancient anybody coming in with questions The museum holds many items from different international by like student Farzana Yassin. artifacts of Native Americans, to about history. amazing artifacts of South Florida cultures such as the Japanese and “The museum is very interesting a million year old dinosaur bone, “Many students can come here history, which originally only had European, to century-year-old especially since I’m a huge fan of a door is found with a rather for interest in the history of the a collection of Broward College paintings, books and even fossils. mummies.” Ambassadors program showcases responsibility leaders, page 1 Ambassador, a student has to meet a variety of criteria such as to And above all, build up have and maintain a GPA of 2.5. your resume. Additionally, Students must also be enrolled in by completing the Student a minimum of 6 credits at Central Ambassador program successfully, Campus. The program is very which includes a minimum of competitive as each semester a 45 hours of volunteering, the large amount of students apply. students will be rewarded with a According to Asencio, the scholarship. most positive feedback he has The job as a Student Ambassador ever gotten about the Student comes with a lot of responsibility Ambassador program, were and integrity. “As long as you the numerous compliments, establish communication and admiration and appreciation by professionalism you are good. the board members at the board Because this is how the rule is like. meetings. It is going to look bad on your part Looking after others and if you say “yes” and then you don’t having so many responsibilities do it. It shows a bad image and on his plate, has allowed Harris to unprofessionalism,” said Hubert create his individual leadership. “It Harris, senior student ambassador. is very important to me. It is my Ambassadors have many way of making a difference out of roles to take on. One of them is my world.” to keep their positive outlook “Personally what I gained is especially for incoming students, more confidence, leadership skills, as the ambassador is supposed being able to stand out in the to promote a welcoming and crowd and be a voice and have nurturing environment. “A smile self-esteem,” said Evans. “It is a opens doors and gives a welcoming great way to network, find new feeling,” said Harris. “I try to see information about the school and the fortes of my Ambassadors and also give back to the community.” use their skills in a way where they If you wish to learn more are comfortable and even put them about the Student Ambassador in awkward situations sometimes program, stop by the Student Life so that they can break out of their Department on either Central, shells.” North or South Campus. In order to become an

March 26th, 2013 CAMPUS NEWS Page 4 Aspirations to join the Solar Decathlon nashaly avalos staff writer was held in 2002. It consists of 20 schools around the U.S. who Some people dream and aspire submit their eco-friendly house to make the world more eco- ideas. friendly, and Broward College has There are many requirements to helped accomplish that through building this house, such as they Terra Cycle and Re Use A Shoe. have to operate on solar power, be However Annastacia Robinson, cost effective and energy efficient. a freshman in Broward College On top of all that, students have majoring in environmental science, to build the actual house, and if it wants to take it a step further. is chosen, it has to be shipped to “I just want the whole school to California for the final judging. get involved, I want a board,” said “We’ll be helping families in Robinson. She’s currently seeking need, showing society it’s efficient, out students from many different and green and a good thing,” said fields to help put together a big Mason Woods, a dual enrolled project that requires building an freshman who aspires to be an actual house. Not just any house, officer in Geology. The houses but an eco-friendly house. For now, that are built in the competition plans are put on hold until the year are then taken to people in need. 2015, when Broward College can He believes lots of things should enter with the right dedication, be solar powered and is willing to people, and sponsors. help this project go ahead as much Robinson is looking for as he can. Broward College students who will Woods and Robinson are part be sticking around until 2015 and of the Science Club held at South Campus; they meet once a week. With big dreams and They are involved in many more activities as well and are looking for even more ways to make the world wonderful ideas, Robinson Eco-friendly house simulation Photo courtesy of solardecathlon.umn.edu more eco-friendly. needs the help of Broward who are majoring in engineering, to be held in California this year; The Solar Decathlon is an For more information you can architecture and design. “I just although it’s the competition award-winning program that email Professor Henri Liauw A College students willing to take want the school to know we can that she hopes to enter when the challenges college and university Pau, who is in charge of the Science enter,” she said. time is right. It’s held by the U.S. teams to create new eco-friendly Club at at hliauwap@bconline. their ideas and dreams to a The Solar Decathlon is going Department of Energy. houses. The first competition broward.edu. whole new level. Chess Club: formulating the basics abyyomi johnson contributing writer

Its official: as of Feb. 6, 2013, one of the newest clubs at Broward College’s South Campus, the Chess Club, has finalized its registration procedures; not only by turning in its registration forms to the offices of Student Life, but also by having its first official meeting. The purpose of this meeting, as stated by the president of the newly formed club, Douglas Lai, is to “establish officers of the club, acquaint the club’s sitting advisor, Artemis Trammell, with the club’s purpose as well as its functions, and to familiarize officers and present members with the inner workings and procedures of the club.” The officers of the club are Lai as President, Abbyomi Johnson as Vice President and Khurram Raja as Secretary. They were all in Allison Nading / The observer attendance and each participated Douglas Lai and Khurram Raja playing an intense game of chess. in the future planning and present concerns for the club. consuming, as one game lasts so to counter this, Lai made stimulate that individual’s memory Chess is a game of quick wit Some of the topics discussed anywhere from 10 minutes to an arrangements with the President and concentration skills,” which and intellect; not only are players at the meeting included, “Fees, hour depending on the players. of the Asian Zone Networking the club claims can “prevent the expected to plan their next move, equipment and events.” The fee “The chessboards for the club Club to advertise the chess club’s onset of Alzheimer’s disease.” but in order to do so must first rate for the club is $3 per member, are to be bought at the lowest price interest in members at the Asian ALZ.org claims: “Alzheimer’s contemplate their opponent’s. It is which would then go towards possible, allowing the club to save Zone’s annual lunar festival. The is a type of dementia that causes this thinking that gives players the buying club equipment, such as money which would allow for the advertisement would include a problems with memory, thinking mental edge that seeps into their chessboards and timers. clubs treasury to expand,” said Lai. verbal presentation of the club’s and behavior.” If the club’s claims intellectual capabilities, increasing The club is looking forward to Another major issue the purpose and description. about chess increasing memory their thoughts and mental at least 10 of each item listed, to President brought to light was the According to the club’s printed and concentration are sound, perception. make sure members have access order of events. As a newly formed description, its purpose is to “aid in then the club could also count as to individual boards instead of club, the chess establishment has the individual’s ability to partake having positive mental and medical sharing one which could be time no advertisement whatsoever, in the game of chess, as well as elements. March 26th, 2013 CAMPUS NEWS Page 5

BCMariana Navas studentsMoreover, they didhelp a kissing booth, find homes for tigers Staff Writer which was made by themselves out of recyclable materials, and A lot of animal species, such put it at the Valentine’s Day event, as the blue whale, panda, green which was held by the Health and turtle and tiger are being victims Wellness Knowledge Department of so many threats that put them (HAWK) on Feb. 14. The idea of in a critical situation and great this kissing booth was basically danger. Catching and overfishing, to receive donations and give deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, kiss stamps or kiss stickers, and pollution, water scarcity and others that would give the people the are some of the threats that damage opportunity of winning some prizes animals’ habitats and cause some such as singing tigers. Also, they species to become threatened or did a raffle that was about guessing endangered. However, The World how many Hershey’s kisses were in a Wildlife Fund (WWF) is trying to jar, and whoever guessed that right solve this problem by encouraging could keep all the Hershey’s kisses people to donate and even to adopt for themselves. In one day, only in order to save endangered species with the kissing booth, they raised from extinction. $50. “We raised a total of $143.02, For this cause, the Office of and it was amazing because it was Volunteering and Leadership the fastest fundraiser and the fastest (OVAL) of Central Campus came turn out we’ve ever had,” said one up with the idea of a fundraiser the OVAL representatives, Frankie to help adopt a tiger that started Rosso. on Feb. 4 and ended on Feb 14. A lot of people contributed to They organized a candy sale in putting an end to tigers’ extinction, which they sold little treats such and thanks to their engagement and as chocolates and lollipops for the effort that OVAL put towards HAWK representatives Frankie Rosso and Aliesea Smith at the kissing booth. Mariana Navas/ The Observer the first week, and on the second this cause, five tigers, which are the same situation, so the fight Engineering major, Hubert Harris. day, we will need to put ourselves in week they sold baked goods such endangered species in China, were doesn’t end here. Besides trying to save these these animals’ position and think as donuts, muffins, cupcakes, and adopted. Although this time, the “I think it was a great idea animals, the whole purpose of this that some of the threats that put even some juice and milk. They effort was focused just on saving the because it will make people aware of idea was to encourage people to them in danger will harm us as sold many different things to get a tigers that are in danger; there are how these animals are important to open their eyes and to stop being well because just like them, we are lot of people to support the cause. more species that are going through the world,” said Computer Network selfish with nature. At the end of the surrounded by nature too. O.V.A.L at the Miami Zoo

natalie von cieminski central bureau chief

An exciting and enriching trip to the Miami Zoo awaited the Office of Volunteering and Leadership (OVAL) volunteers on Feb. 22. Packed with energy and great moods, the volunteers and the OVAL representatives explored the wide world of animal life. Feeding giraffes, hearing a lecture about animals and taking fun photos with “almost real” animals were only a few of the adventures of the Miami Zoo trip. The Miami Zoo, that is owned and operated by the Miami-Dade Trainer handling cheetah at the Zoo. County Park and Recreation Natalie Von Cieminski / The Observer Department, seeks to encourage an Barbara Marmol, the zoo trip was from Venezuela. Additionally, her appreciation for the world’s wildlife an “educational enhancement.” parents were able to join the trip and to help conserve it for future Additionally, a zookeeper since they are enrolled at Broward generations. While holding over showed the students how he College, too. “For me it was like 100 exhibits, the Miami Zoo is also teaches birds to speak. A second everything at once,” said Marmol home to more than 2,000 animals, show represented a well home- who had the chance to get together which represent over 500 species as trained cheetah that would sit with her parents, friends and co- well as more than 1,000 species of down when he was told to do so. workers at the same time, which trees, palms and other plants. Since one of the causes is one of the reasons why she was OVAL’s trip to the zoo had OVAL supports is taking care so excited. But Marmol was not several educational components. of endangered animals, it was the only one. Her mother was also Feeding giraffes, watching an interesting for OVAL representative eager to see the different animals. animal show and participating in a Mischa Florvilus to be face-to-face Her mother kept saying: “Oh my train tour around the zoo, among with the animals this time while God, look at the lion. Look at the other activities were items on the learning different aspects about giraffes.” agenda. them. “It was exciting. I felt like a Based on Marmol’s perception, The participants also had the kid again,” said Florvilus. Florvilus’ the zoo is not just for kids but chance to connect to the living favorite part of the trip was feeding also a fun adventure for adults world while exploring an array of the giraffes. She was fascinated and a good way to learn about the intriguing facts about the animals about how the giraffes wrapped animals. that included animals’ behavior, their purple tongue around the For more information about diets, habitats, reproduction, lettuce. up-coming events, visit the OVAL territories and living conditions. “I’ve never been to a zoo in the team at Student Life Central For OVAL representative US,” said Marmol, who is originally Campus, Bldg. 19, Rm. 106.

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March 26th, 2013 CAMPUS NEWS Page 7 Tigertail Center now offers lifeguard classes tiffany harris by site. Skilled beach lifeguards Staff writer can collect $16 an hour or more. There are certain requirements Is swimming one of your for anyone interested in signing favorite past times? Have you up. Participants must be at ever considered utilizing your least 15 years of age, be able to swimming skills to ensure the safety complete a 300 yard swim test, of others, or possibly save a life? be able to retrieve a 10 pound If so, the first step is to become diving brick and tread water for certified, and as luck would two minutes using only your legs. have it, Broward College (BC) These classes, which are also open is offering lifeguard classes at to the general public, are being Tigertail Lake Recreational offered to BC students for $175 Center, beginning March 4, 2013. and to staff/ faculty for $225. The According to Kerri McKinney, cost includes a pocket mask and American Redcross lifeguard first aid supplies, which are needed instructor, this is BC in order to complete the course. has offered these classes to students, Lifeguard training textbooks but there has been internal training can be purchased at www. for staff previously at Tigertail. shopstaywell.com or downloaded “Tigertail has a five acre space for free at www.redcross.com. and three acre lake,” said If you’ve always had the desire McKinney. “Most of the training to want to help others and just is in the lake, which we ensure is so happen to possess strong maintained and safe to swim in.” swimming skills, this may be the The different components of opportunity for you. Being a the course consist of: lifeguard, JD Hills, instructor, teaches critical skills to students Josh Adams, Delroy Thompson and Daniel Rojas. lifeguard is a big responsibility and Photo courtesy of natalie justice CPR/AED and, waterfront even though it’s demanding, saving lifeguard. Upon completion are needed,” said McKinney. the opportunity to further expand equates to greater than two people a life is rewarding within itself. of the program, students will The waterfront lifeguard is their options,” said McKinney. every minute. A considerable According to McKinney, receive their certifications in: the component of the class Becoming certified in this amount of swimmers have a near the demand for the classes will Lifeguarding, First Aid and CPR/ which includes the standard area can secure a job working drowning experience, but they reach determine if they will be held AED for the professional rescuer. lifeguard training and adds lake, around open water areas such safety by themselves or with the annually. Students who are “With the American Redcross river and beach lifeguard skills. as beaches, lakes and rivers. help of a friend, parent or lifeguard. interested are urged to stop by basic certification, graduates can “We plan to inform students of the Statistics show that a total of The average hourly pay for BC’s Tigertail Lake Recreational work at pools, museums or other waterfront lifeguarding component 1.2 million people throughout lifeguards is $9.25. This does Center to register or call (954) recreational centers where lifeguards once they’re enrolled and give them the world drown each year, which fluctuate with experience and 201-4500 for more information. March 26th, 2013 SPORTS Page 8 Seahawks struggling but looking to improve stephon hall but we can do better sometimes,” sports editor said Delk. And, with the Conference Despite an early 0-6 start to games coming up, the competition the season, the Broward College is going to be high as other teams Softball team has managed to pull look to prepare for these obligations; out of their early troubles to start their coach looks forward to the the year. While 4-10 isn’t exactly challenge of these contests. “I’m a good way to start a season, it’s looking forward to the conference still better than where things games, to tell you the truth. We were before; and, even though the haven’t seen any one of them in the season isn’t up to the expectations fall and, at this point, you know, of Coach Jenna Lopez, she feels hit or miss, I’ve been looking at the that the young squad is heading in polls and Indian River is at the top, the right direction. like always; Miami Dade is actually “We started off a little slow, doing very well,” said Lopez. then, you know, the last couple of They also face Palm Beach State games, we’ve played better; we’ve and Brevard Community College hit the ball, put some things in in key doubleheader match-ups. motion, but it’s a young squad and Monica Palacio is the team’s first it’s going to take some time for base player and wants to major them to actually put it all together, in nursing. She claims that this but they are a good set of girls,” experience has been fun and said Lopez. different for her as she is learning There are only two veterans that about her teammates and the sport. have returned from the past year The most interesting talent she who are sophomores, while the rest said she brings to her team is that of the roster is made up of freshmen she can “literally do a split and players. It’s an upbeat team that has stretch for the ball,” said Palacio. lofty goals that include contending It all adds to an unorthodox for a spot in the tournament, but, Kelsey Tomblin, number three, swinging for the ball in the first game of a double header. Cornell Whitehead/ The style that makes this group of in order to do that, they must win Observer gals interesting and fun. A motto their conference games and may She claims that the season has been Romaine. She also claims that Outfielder Victoria Delk didn’t that they live when it comes to have to win out to make in in. an adventure. “You know it’s been her pitch isn’t fast, that it can be offer a take similar to Romaine on the fundamentals is “If you ain’t Kaitlyn Romaine is a pitcher a ride…but we’re a team, we stick deceptive to a batter and that she the season but acknowledged that cheatin’, you ain’t trying.” To on the rotation and, currently, is together and, at first, we started can deliver some “junk” once in a the girls could make improvements. explain that in full? All it means is undefined has far as a major goes. rough and now we’re on fire,” said while. “We’re doing alright…we’re good, to steal bases. That’s it.

Seahawks close outStarkman final expressed his approval game that the demand ofagainst college ball is teammate,” rivalsplus Johnson, saying TJ Orisma advantages on the offensive end. of his team the night after the much greater. “he [Johnson] doesn’t care if he staff writer Thompson likes to help his team game, applauding their progress “Over the last couple of games scores or not, he just wants to go by “being a facilitator,” he said. He throughout the season. He Dashawn has really matured... out there and win.” Starkman Applauds Team ended the game with 12 rebounds pointed out the improvement right now he’s considered one of “If one guy doesn’t do it, the and eight assists. of his freshmen in particular, the best guards of the league,” other guy will step up...that’s the after 20 Point Victory “Billy keeps it simple, he knows understanding that the transition said Starkman. He continued by good thing about our team,” said Against Miami-Dade the game very well...he’s one of from high school and travel acknowledging the hard work ethic Starkman. “When we do that we the best passers,” said Starkman basketball can be difficult knowing of Gaberlavage calling him a “good win ball games.” about Thompson’s performance. The Broward College (BC)“It’s crazy that your forward comes Seahawks faced the Miami-Dade in and has more assists than your (MD) Sharks for the final home point guard.” game of their men’s basketball The Seahawks finished the half conference season on Feb. 18. with the lead at 34-26, Craig Blue and white warm-ups scattered Brown being the leading scorer onto the court as both teams began with 14 points. But Starkman is their pre-game regimens and fans used to seeing such results from filled the stands. The Seahawks had his second year power forward, already beaten the Sharks twice who averaged 20 points a game last before during the conference and season, calling him a hard worker. were looking to achieve another But it was freshman, Dashawn victory. As head coach, Bob Richmond, who exploded into Starkman, said the second half with multiple And that they did. three point shots that put the The Seahawks started off the game Seahawks up by double digits. at a steady pace, putting up shots Plus, a huge dunk by forward that kept them ahead of MD, David Gaberlavage had the crowd who were stagnant, having less off their feet. “It was awesome,” than 10 points 10 minutes into said Corissa Archer, who witnessed the first half. However, second the play. Gaberlavage finished chance opportunities, BC fouls the game with 19 points and 15 and turnovers put MD down three rebounds. despite the Seahawks’ nine point The gap between the Seahawks and lead (at 22-13) seconds past the Sharks continued to widen until it seven minute mark. reached 19 points at 74-55. Point But as time wound down, the guard TJ Johnson and forward Seahawks managed a 5-0 run that Pernell Riggins fouled out in the had them up by eight with less last half after solid performances than two minutes left. on the floor. Freshman Billy Thompson had an The Seahawks kept the lead the effective impact, grabbing multiple entire game which resulted in a 80- defensive rebounds that took away 60 victory at the buzzer. some of MD’s second chance This was the greatest margin of baskets. He also assisted in ways victory achieved by BC against that lead to open looks and scoring MD this season.

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart How I met your mother Kyle Swenson Melissa Simons

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart is my favorite show on television because it’s smart, thought-provoking, intelligent and of course, How I Met your Mother has been on for 8 years on CBS, and is ending in May. The premise of the show is about the main character, Ted Mosby, telling his kids in the year 2030 about how he met their mother, by recounting the stories of his friends’ antics. The producers funny! The Daily Show, with Jon Stewart airs Monday through Thursday on Comedy Central. Every show consists of an opening of the show wanted to give the series an appropriate ending because throughout the entire series, no one knows who the mother is, monologue where Jon Stewart reviews and dissects the biggest stories of the day and educates the viewers on what’s going on, all giving the sitcom a mysterious edge. with a humorous twist. After the opening monologue, John Stewart either continues to discuss even more events of the day, or he will As the years go by, we’re given clues as to who the mother is; the biggest one of all was the clue that she and Ted met at a wedding, turn the show over to one of his many hilarious analysts to report” live from the scene” of a current event. This part of the show is which was revealed to be Barney and Robin’s wedding in the season 8 finale. In the final season, Marshall and Lily learn how to juggle

always interesting, and of course hysterical. After this, John Stewart moves to the interviewing table, parenting with their jobs and friends, Barney and Robin plan their wedding and Ted announces that he was emotionally ready to settle down after years of dating great, and often time crazy girls and having his career take off as an architect. where he interviews everyone from authors to Supreme Court Judges and It’s a funny show, highly recommended for anyone who likes sitcoms. even the President of the United States himself, Barack Obama! This part “Nothing good ever happens after 2 a.m.” from season 2, was when Ted cheated on his difficult long distance relationship with Robin, of the show is always fascinating because John Stewart has the amazing but lost both girls at the end. Barney’s “hot crazy scale” is exactly what it sounds like, the hotter the girl is, the crazier she actually is ability to ask serious questions that are very complex, but skill keep it light and the theory has been repeatedly proven throughout the series.

and funny for his audience. So I suggest that everyone check out The Daily Show with Jon Stewart because he is the perfect mix of comedy and politics Brittany White that everyone can enjoy.

Photograph from cinehotflix.com Like musicals, romance, comedy and drama?

Well, Glee has all that and more, wrapped up Arrow in an overwhelmingly large music box. Glee Rafael Baez Favorite started on May 19, 2009, debuting on Fox, and since then has escalated into one of primetime TV’s most popular shows. What makes Glee from other shows Following the footsteps of , which followed a young Clark Kent in the years before he became is its use of mixing in musical numbers into their dialogue, which makes it entertaining to all age groups. Directed Superman, the CW premiered Arrow, its new superhero show, on Oct. 10, 2012. It follows the story of by , Glee is also appealing due to its incredibly talented cast, including , , Oliver Queen, played by Stephen Arnell. Queen is a multibillionaire who was shipwrecked, and has finally , Cory Monteith, , Darren Criss and many more. And on top of its already dynamic cast, Glee returned to civilization after five years of isolation. Upon returning to Star City, Queen assumes the role has had a huge list of guest superstars like , John Stamos, Britney Spears, Kate Hudson, Whoopi of a vigilante and begins to police the streets, his weapon of choice being the bow and arrow. Goldberg, etc… For those who are living under a rock and have not heard of the show, Glee is about a group of high The show follows Queen as he targets men for his justice, names on a list given to him by his now dead school students in a glee club, trying to win show choir competitions for their high father, who was a part of the conspiracy to keep the city mired in crime. In addition to his nightly escapades school in Lima, Ohio with the guidance of their Spanish teacher. I’ve watched Glee as “The Hood,” Queen also tries to reconnect with his family. His sister Thea, played beautifully by since the beginning and have been engaged by every story line, relationship change Willa Holland, is a drug addict who was traumatized heavily by her brother’s SHOWS and hardships these characters have faced, and can honestly say I think it’s one of the best disappearance and apparent death. Queen’s mother has remarried and, shows on TV right now. But don’t just take my word for it, tune in Thursday nights at 9 p.m. on the Fox Network incidentally, is a part of the same conspiracy. and find out for yourself. The “big bad” of the show is Malcom Merlyn, played John Barrowman.

He is portrayed as being very powerful, and seems to be at the head of the Once Upon A Time

conspiracy that Queen’s parents were involved in. It is implied that Merlyn Rogihanne Avin

is responsible for the shipwreck that

killed Queen’s father and stranded him on an island. The show has 2011 a new show made its way to ABC prime time on Sundays, a day that most people reserved for shows like .

been renewed for a second season, and airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Photograph from queenaira.com However, the show ended on high not and a cliffhanger but made way for some magic in the new hit drama Once Upon A Time (OUAT).

When I first saw the coming attractions for the show, I was excited because I love fairy tale stories. OUAT is centered around the story of

Ancient Aliens Snow White played by Ginnefer Goodwin and Prince Charming played by Josh Dallas and the Evil Queen Regina played by Lana Parilla. The

Tracy Mendez premise of the first season was the Evil Queen casting a spell that transported all the fairy tale characters known into our world; however,

none of them remembers who they are and for twentyeight­ years they had no idea until Emma played by Jennifer Morrison comes to the

Delve into the world of the unknown. In the show, “Ancient Aliens” the mysterious universe we have grown to (think?) we know is small town with a secret of her own. When the queen cast the spell, Snow White gave birth to a baby girl that was later transported toour explained and unraveled in the most fascinating ways via scientists and experts. All our perplexing questions like ‘where did it all come world before the curse affected everyone; that baby was Emma. By the end of season one, we found out that Regina as she was known in from?’ are answered. After watching this mindboggling science heavy show, it will make you ponder, whether we truly are alone or not our world, was one of two people who remembered their life before and that she did not want Emma to break the curse. Which eventually in this realm of consciousness. happened. This show is on its second season and its getting better by each episode because of the story lines and the draw dropping

scenes that will leave you wanting more. Once Upon A Time airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. Design by Alexa Ponce

March 26th, 2013 BC SPOTLIGHT Page 13 BC students help “aspire” local students Powerful Oz Brittany White oz, page 1 staff writer When they finally reach the We have many clubs at Broward kingdom, with a new friend in tow, College, from the Honors Society a winged monkey named Finley to theater and performing arts. But (Zach Braff), they are welcomed by there is one club located on South Theodora’s sister Evanora (Rachel Campus that is helping make a Weisz). At first Evanora seems big change in the lives of many of enthusiastic at the idea of having our local high school students in Oz, the mysterious powerful wizard Broward County. The Aspira Club there to save the kingdom from the was founded two years ago by club wicked witch no one has ever seen, advisor Andrea Apa and South but it turns out Evanora is not as campus President S. Sean Madison, sweet as she appears to be. and together they formed a group As Oscar sets off into his journey of ready and willing members to stop the evil witch with the to help the organization Aspira help of his new companion Finley, of South Florida to address high who is the only person who knows school students on the importance Aspira organization poses for a picture after a meeting. Brittany White/ /The Observer Oscar’s true identity, Theodora is of leadership and education. The by giving back to the community initiative which provides youth of its success and help with the left behind with her not-so-sweet club’s co-advosir is Dr. Norda the benefits of their skills, abilities, leadership development and HIV/ community, the Aspira Club sister who tricks her into believing Hernandez, faculty of Psychology. and experience. Supporting and AIDS prevention training. This has won several awards through Oscar fooled them both into falling There are even high school Aspira encouraging younger partners as club has also participated and Broward College including for him. Driven by an inner rage, programs, and together they have positive role models becomes a real has hosted several fundraising “Organization of the Year,” “Event and the help of a charmed green changed the lives of many high life learning experience and a first events, including one called a Taste of the Year,” and Apa received apple, Theodora is transformed into school students, that so far seven step in a life-long commitment to for Culture which is an annual “Advisor of the Year.” I think their the Wicked Witch of the West. scholarships have been awarded to service.” The club is run by Andres multicultural event where students success is better defined by South Meanwhile Oscar and Finley high school students from Broward Ramirez, and his VP Peter Papp. put on a talent show and raise Campus President Madison when make new allies with the adorable College because of this club. Currently they have 20 active money for the club. One of their he states, “the club is really taking little China Girl (Joey King), and “Aspirar” means to aspire in members and 6 club officers. biggest accomplishments to date strides to make its mark as a club mystifying Glinda the good witch Spanish. Aspire is to have a great In the course of two years, this is when the club participated in a that cares about the community, (Michelle Williams). It’s then that ambition or ultimate goal, and this club has created and participated mini community project with the and Professor Apa giving the it is revealed (not so Spoiler Alert!) club does a great job of living up to in several successful events, Hispanic Unity of Florida based students a great lesson in servant that Evanora was the one who killed its name with their constant drive including their 2010-2011 Annual on a tip from Broward College’s leadership.” the king and created the monstrosity and passion to help out in their Youth leadership summit, their President J. David Armstrong Jr. The club plans on continuing that is the wicked witch. With the community. According to club Aspira Broward Summer camp, The club helped collect items for to do just that, and more this year help of Glinda and his new friends, advisor Andrea Apa, she states that, and has collaborated with Aspira a family in need when they lost with upcoming events. For more will Oscar put his scheming days “our aspiring club members build of Florida to address the United everything they owned in a fire information on the Aspira Club, aside, and help the Ozians defeat and apply their leadership skills Way Community Impact Health that destroyed their home. Because you can check out BC’s website or the wicked sisters? Well the only like the club’s page on Facebook. way to find out is to go to your local theater and watch OZ: the Great and Powerful, in theaters now. It will be worth every penny.

March 26th, 2013 CAMPUS NEWS Page 16

Vinylanycia villa Thursdays at Downtown Campusrecords, even those in different Staff writer languages from students’ native countries such as samba or reggae. Now-a-days we simply press the Vinyl Thursdays also welcome play button on our IPod or MP3 music from today as long as its players to listen to music. However in Vinyl form. Some local music in the years preceding MP3 files, shops still carry Vinyl Records of CD’s and even Cassettes, there modern artists; Three Days Grace was a thing called a Vinyl record. and Rihanna are a few that have Stepping back into the seventies, been brought to Vinyl Thursdays. a large round disc made of Vinyl If you don’t know of a local music would be placed on a player where shop, these records can likewise you would lay a needle down and, be found in local thrift stores and low and behold, out came your online. favorite jams. Willis Holcombe “I have found records from Center’s Student Activities Metallica to even an 80’s favorites Coordinator Archie Asar has record at a thrift store by my house brought the vintage listening styles for like 50 cents apiece. I picked back with Vinyl Thursdays. Every them up for an art project but Thursday, in the Student Activity now that I have heard of Vinyl Center, Asar floods the room with Thursdays I might bring them in music from the 1920’s to today. to listen to,” said Paul Harvel, an The only rule to the music, it has English Major at Broward College. to be a Vinyl Record. Next time you have a break from classes or a Thursday “The students get a chance afternoon to kill, why not stop by the second floor of Downtown Photo Courtesy of blogs.suntimes.com to listen to music from before Campus and follow the sound of Walking into the Activity that Song,” “What Era is the song to playing, and so I walked in and music that you can hear all the way their time. It’s like a musical Center, you can find Asar manning from?” and “Name the Artist.” The stayed to listen to several songs from from the elevator. Posters for Vinyl the record player like an old school prizes include small things like the seventies that my mom has at Thursdays are on all floors of the and cultural education. I even DJ. It’s not all listening and head pencils and candy, to larger prizes home,” said Mellony Medina, Dual Downtown Campus in case you bobbing though; Asar interacts like backpacks. Enrollment freshman at Broward forget where it takes place. have students bringing in their with the students regarding the Vinyl Thursdays draws quite College. “This is really unique to the music. He has created a small the crowd for the small campus. Students are encouraged to Downtown Campus and I’m proud parents’ records to put on the dance floor so the students may There are anywhere from 5 to 20 come by with their coffee or to introduce the students to pieces “bust a move” if they are so people at any given time. lunches to sit and listen in the of musical history,” said Asar. player.” inclined, as well as games and “I was just walking by when I chillax scene, or participate in the -Archie Asar trivia. Such games include “Name heard this song my mom listens fun and games. Asar welcomes all

Theallison nading Fox Chronicles Conclusion on instead,South take comfort. For, among photo editor the coifed hedges and the harsh concrete landscape found within The Final Say: The Conclusion our Seahawk Land of Academia, to the BC Fox Debate there’s solace to be found in the (conclusion to “Foxes on South knowledge that something a little Campus pose no threat,” from wild is still permitted to reside here prior issue). as well: you, me, and the foxes of Perhaps you’ve seen them: void BC. of any backpack or direction, wandering aimlessly through the courtyard or lounging near the parking lot, refusing to meet the eye of a curious passerby. You’ll certainly never catch one studying anything--unless it’s the sandwich for lunch that you have clutched in your hand. They seem to be the antithesis of a successful student; furry, socially inept, and perpetually napping… What sort of gang correlating to the above description can penetrate the BC reside within all facets of that of our own here at Broward. Thus, next time you bite into Campus with little retribution or the fox debate. Yet, while there However, we much like the that burger and see something external inteference? remain a few that view them as a foxes, also claim residency within out of the corner of your eye In response to similar concerns hazard to safety, the foxes appear to a community founded upon skitter away, quell your fears and expressed by nature and habitat many as living forms of the exact perpetual renewal. advocates, Sean Devaney, director nature that some fear these animals Volume IV: The Verdict of collegewide maintenance, are being deprived of. Others find replies with confidence, “Broward that the foxes of South BC exhibit College has previously worked a resiliency and uninhibited nature As we arrive (Register), depart with Wild Neighbors Solutions that parallel the qualities intrinsic in relocating wildlife such as to the Community College (Graduate), and continue on ducks (ducks do present a sanitary student: adaptable, selectively and safety concern). However, elusive, and ever-wandering. (Transfer) our journey towards foxes are not to be removed or Further parallelism between disturbed. Because foxes mate the BC student and the foxes can academic success, our presence for life, trapping and relocating be viewed tangibly in a turnover disrupts the natural order. The that coincides perfectly with the might appear to have little college has left them alone and transition of the Fall to Spring permitted them to remain in their term. “Every spring, they give physical impact upon the massive chosen surroundings.” birth,” confided Professor Elisa Volume III: The Deliberation Albo, regarding a cycle within Seahawk population. Aspects of validity admittedly the fox community that mimics

March 26, 2013 OPINION Page 18 Bruce Willis attempts to die hard, again Stephon hall device, Die Hard 5 manages to sports editor be entertaining, regardless. That scene and its visually distracting Perplexing to think that there climax are funny in their individual have been five of these films and inanity. the formula still works, bargain if Jai Courtney, who plays the son you care for middling supporting of John McClain, is serviceable characters that fail to rival the without being too much of a genius of Hans Gruber from the burden to the McClain legacy, so original Die Hard. to speak. Mary Elizabeth Winstead A Good Day to Die Hard (yes, does return from the fourth that’s the actual title) is the latest film, though in a lesser role here. installment of the series that has German actor Sebastian Koch managed to outlive its worth. plays the whistle blower and does While I didn’t enjoy the character an OK job with what he has to deal depth of the supporting cast nor with, it’s just too bad that he’s bare. the forgettable plot, I was able Now that I’ve covered, to forgive the insipid activity of exhaustively how confusing things the action sequences; they do are in this film and how it distorted have a charming place within the my perception of reality, I did like franchise. it, despite how ridiculous things The setting is in Russia, where turned out, overall. Photo courtesy of showbiz411.com John McClain’s son, Jack, is on a The core villain (if you can mission from the CIA to prevent spry age of 58; pretty impressive. at modernizing a dying genre with a game of bumper tag. The SUV, tell who is the main antagonist) the prosecution of a whistle blower. Though, the biggest flaw with outplayed elements (i.e. slow- amazingly, manages to take down underwhelmed and the same Then, like in every Die Hard film, the setting is that we never get a motion) to exist as a destructive the four-wheeler by trapping it into for Jack McClain. The film does McClain Sr. has to welcome us all proper introduction to Moscow playground for us to witness. a ramp. But, yeah, that really DID pay homage to the original film back into the party and witness (the film’s setting); and, there’s no There’s a chase scene that, at times, happen in my verbal dramatization in sequences, which was cool, wise cracks, one-liners and charm. sense of patience as there seems defies the laws of physics with of the sequence that I referred to. if unnecessary; but, if all you’re Bruce Willis, to his credit does a to be no kind of stoppage in the weight distribution and collision Logic officially left mylooking for is something that’s big, good job of making his venerable action; it’s as if the writer infused detection. Example, say you’re mind, from that point; and, dumb and absurd, you’ll enjoy this protagonist relevant in a digital age no pacing. chasing down a 4x4 monster when I didn’t care for a proper film. Just be sure to turn your brain and looks good doing it too at the Director John Moore tries too truck and an SUV challenges it to introduction or a decent plot off in order to enjoy the nonsense. March 26th, 2013 OPINION Page 19

VisitingStephon Hall the Miami Herald Headquarters Sports Editor Miami. Those stories took a lot of stories and air local programming it all conversational within that Hiaasen, Patricia Mazzei, Andres Before The Miami Herald will effort for the 15-year reporter, who like The Florida Roundup. structure. Members of the WLRN/ Viglucci and Curtis Morgan no longer be in the Biscayne Bay lives five minutes from her job. Her Kenny Malone produces the Miami Herald cast include Phil during lunchtime and listening area, I had a chance to look over dedication not only compliments material at the radio booth and Latzman, Marva Hinton, Arianna to their own narrations about the the landmark office before the her, but it also cements the paper’s goes over scripts that are read Prothero, and Kelley Mitchell, stories covered over their many paper moves to a new location. tenacity. “We work really hard; throughout WLRN’s weekly who once anchored for WSVN- long careers was, perhaps the best My tour guide for the day was you know, we have a smaller staff, broadcasts. “There are two kinds Channel 7 and WPLG-Channel part of the day; and, the advice was Business and Tourism reporter because the staff has shrunk a of pieces that we do, there are 10. helpful when I was informed about Hannah Sampson, who showed lot in my 15 years here; we’re so pieces where a reporter will go Later on during the morning recording interviews or writing me around the facility; and, I met credibly passionate and dedicated and collect a sound bite and talk time, the press visit gave me a quotes. reporters from sports, business and journalists who do, I think, the best in and out of a sound bite; those chance to see how newspapers are Overall, I thought everyone was other areas. writing in the state,” said Sampson. are produced pieces. We do all the produced with a computer that accommodating and I was proud One of the things she’ll miss The building has been around collection on that, and then there’s converts layouts of a particular to be a part of the experience, at about that Herald location will be since 1963 with many stories to tell stuff like editorial. We’ll write some paper to print. The plates are made least, for a short while. the view from the lunchroom and across South Florida, but in 2011, scripts and perform some pieces for out of aluminum alloy and copy its history. “I did have a recent day McClatchy, the Herald’s parent our editors,” said Malone. news stories, advertisements and where I had 3 front-page stories, company, sold the location for $236 The goal of Audio Journalism photos to create the newspaper which was a historical moment million to Asian casino company is all about narrating a point of for the next day. Once all of the for me and was very exciting,” said Genting and will be moving to a view without the aid of visual copies are completed, the mass- Sampson. Her three stories on Feb. new home in Doral come May. cues. Getting the right audio produced copies are released out 15 included stories on the Carnival Multimedia has become a well- (and script) to tell a story out onto a conveyer and are then cruise line “Triumph,” American established platform in the digital for a listening audience is what sent to counties for subscribers or Airline’s merger with US Airways age and WLRN partners with The WLRN does for its many stories single-copy buyers. Convening and the International Boat Show in Herald to air reports on various and the main objective is to make with reporters Marc Caputo, Scott TV characters are friends from far away... Melissa Simons fEATURES Editor is supposed to be a cheaper way of escaping the real world for a TV shows make us invest bit, and it’s cheaper because movie our time in watching fictional ticket prices are getting ridiculously characters work out their day high for those on a budget. to day problems. Every week Being sucked into your favorite DVRs are set to record the latest TV show means that Hollywood is episode of a show with characters doing something right, they have who are relatable in whatever the viewership, the actors and the issues or antics they get through, storyline to keep people guessing often leaving the audience with what will happen next, laughing a cliffhanger or a “feel-good’’ at the antics, crying with the moment at the end of the episode. characters. If the premise of a show is good, As the summer approaches, people will watch religiously, talk many shows are starting to focus about it with like-minded people on the story lines of characters in and tune in every week to support hopes of high enough ratings to the actors and boost ratings so come back in the fall. Other shows the show doesn’t get cancelled for are airing their final season in May stupid reasons. and hopefully has had enough Sometimes people get publicity to end the show on a emotionally invested in characters high note rather than a low one, on TV, which could be seen as a like How I met Your Mother or the good thing because it means that mysterious teen drama Pretty Little producers wrote up someone Two “bros” watching a football game. courtesy/ thecollegehelper.com Liars. I guess it’s a lot like having who is likeable and relatable, two a way more attractive and trendier aspects of a fictional character emotionally invested in characters boyfriend Toby was actually on the made clear that Toby has had bad friend who only visits an hour a that is needed to making a show a that they shed a tear or two when A-team, and even I have to admit intentions from the start, which week. success among audiences. something tragic happens, it can I felt betrayed when I saw him in makes the actor who plays Toby an When Elena’s brother Jeremy only mean that Hollywood is the black hooded sweatshirt, so I excellent casting choice in terms of died on The Vampire Diaries, it doing their job and making us feel was one of the thousands who were perfect two-faced villain. FREE E-BOOK, was a top trending tweet, as if an as though Jeremy was a dear friend, angrily tweeting how betrayed I As an overall fan of TV, I set my wwwmszpublishing.com actual person had died. With the not just another hot guy on TV. felt. DVR to record 8 shows of different Ghost stories, Sci-Fi, hashtag #RIPJEREMY trending,” The same thing goes for Pretty Several fans were in denial that varieties each week, ranging from Occult those who don’t watch the show Little Liars; the anger of the fans he was evil because he played the comedies to cartoons to teen From the author of see just how much of a fan base was all over social media when role of the loving boyfriend so dramas and historical dramas. TV "Subroutine: Heaven" the show has. When people get so it was revealed that Spencer’s well, but in the later episodes, it is

The Observer is a bi-weekly consolidated newspaper EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITOR Staff writers produced by students of Broward College. Our office Gustavo Anaya Alexa Ponce Daniel Gavira is located at South Campus, Bldg. 68-268, 7200 Pines Brittany White Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33024. The newsroom can South bureau chief Copy Editor Nashaley Avelos be contacted at 754-273-LEAD, or Observer@mail. Rogihanne Avin Rafael Baez Moriah Johnson broward.edu. Shaun Alladin E-mails to the editor are encouraged. The writer’s LAYOUT EDITOR Features Editor Coordinator of student name must be included, although requests for Cornell Whitehead Melissa Simons publications anonymity may be honored at the editor’s discretion. Jennifer Shapiro E-mails must not exceed 300 words. The Observer Sports editor North Bureau upholds the right to edit for style or length or to reject Stephon Hall Chief Assistant to the publications of letters deemed inappropriate. Thamar Toussaint coordinator of student For information concerning editorial policy or Central Bureau publications advertising rates, call 954-201-8035. Broward college Chief Photo EDITOR Chris Cutro Opinions expressed in this publication are those of Natalie Von Cieminski Allison Nading 2010 & 2012 FCCPA General the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of BC Excellence Award students, staff, faculty and administration. Q&A with cast of Oz Melissa Simons A: To inspiring directors looking to Features editor forward their careers, I would say, be A: Well, I’ve, I’ve been a fan of the directing now, not after college. Every Oz books, the L. Frank Baum Oz books With big-name stars like Mila Kunis day you should be writing. Writing a since I was a boy. They were some of and James Franco, the Oz prequel is script or a scene, every weekend. Every the first books that I read on my own sure to be a hit amongst audiences who Saturday, you should be shooting on for pleasure and I’ve worked with the love the franchise. But how did a movie video a scene from the script you’ve director, Sam Raimi, in three previous like this make its way from an idea to the been writing. Around Sunday you should films and so this was another chance to big screen? The Observer was fortunate be cutting the thing, and on Monday you work with him. And then, in addition to enough to have a round table interview should be showing it to a university that, I saw the role as something I could with the director Sam Raimi and star audience. And they won’t like your damn have a lot of fun with, and could be fairly James Franco to promote the film. little picture. So you’re going to have creative with. I just thought it would be to take it back and recut it and make it a juxtaposition of two different things, Q: What was it about these actors, better, and rewrite it on Friday, reshoot it comedy and fantasy that would result in who between them have a very diverse on Saturday, recut it on Sunday, put some something entertaining. acting background that makes them music on it, and show it to them again on so prefect for their respective roles? Monday. And they might like it a little bit Q: How do you balance your work in Oz better. That’s what you got to do and you with an indie film like Spring Breakers? A: Well, it all comes down to the got to keep doing it, just keep shooting casting process. I wasn’t looking for, and you will be a filmmaker. If you wait A: Well, they’re very different movies necessarily, the very best actor or actress for some after school thing, or sometime but, they are both movies, and they’re in the world. I was looking for that actor in the future to start your career, that made on different scales and they have or actress that had the qualities of the waiting will expand. You just do it now very different subject matter, but there character they’re going to portray. And and you will always be a director. are essential things about making movies I guess that’s the essence of the casting that are in place in both films. And I guess process. And, I guess, the old saying is, Q: What was the best part of working I just go into the different projects trying you want to find the right person for the on the film? And also, what was the most to figure out what the tone of the film is, role. So I’m looking for, like with Mila challenging part of working on the film? what my place in the film is and how I Kunis’ character, she plays Theodora, can best fit into that, that world. So, you and Theodora is a good and innocent A: The best part of the picture for me know, Spring Breakers has a particular character, so I’m looking for someone was, as a director, was once I had worked character, and I just had to play him as who could portray that innocence, and on the thing for like two years and eight believably as possible. He’s a gangster, also, she makes a turn for the wicked months, was to hear Danny Elfman, our mystic/rapper and the Oz character is, side. The wizard breaks her and composer, create such a fantastic score. you know, a magician/con man, so I just first she’s heartbroken, but then a deep Because he took the emotions that were had to figure out how to play each of anger starts to stir within her, and she in the movie and he elevated them. The those roles as realistically as possible. becomes a raging woman scorned. So most challenging, I think, was probably I needed somebody who would portray not dissimilar from other filmmakers and Q: When taking up this project, both sides of that character. And there their ensemble movies, where there are did you have any initial hesitations are a lot of great actresses, but when I many characters, and many back stories, about portraying this character? saw two movies it told me that she could and many interconnected relationship handle both sides. One was Forgetting tales, and juggling what part of their A: Yeah, because I was an Oz fan, I Sarah Marshal, l and I saw this real back story should I include? What part wanted to be sure that they had a sound positive vibe that she put out as this, should I cut out? What part should I approach and I was already very hopeful I guess, Hawaiian hotel clerk. And I give the audience? And what part would because Sam was involved: he’s one of thought, ‘There is an innocent positive be most effective if I let the audience best directors, an, I knew that they would force that I believe could play Theodora.’ use their own imagination to fill in the capture the visuals of the movie very And then when I saw the brilliant Black blanks? Because, that’s really the secret well, or at least I had hopes that they Swan, where she had this real dark and I think - letting the audience participate. would. But I wanted to be sure that they nasty witchy quality, that told me she Not spoon-feeding them everything, but were being loyal to certain things about could play the other half of the role. So giving them just enough tools to finish Oz that people expect, and then also had between those movies, I thought that building the bridge and make them their fresh take on it. So, and, and they did, she had everything it took to become own collaborator. you know. They had all the elements you Theodora. James Fanco need in order for people to recognize the world of Oz. You had the Yellow Brick Q: What advice would you give Q: Recently, you’ve been doing Road and the Emerald City, and witches, to aspiring directors looking to a lot of serious movies. Why did and flying monkeys, and a bunch of forward their careers after college? you decide to attach yourself to this strange creatures, and Munchkins. more family fun, adventure film?