Spared from Tragedy? All Campuses Were Closed with Threat of Attack Worse Than “Virginia Tech”

Index Campus News...... 3–6 Collegewide...... 7–8 Entertainment...... 10–11, 23–24 Science and Technology...... 12 Sports...... 14–16 Features...... 18–20, 22, 28 Opinion...... 25–27

Volume 21, Number 14 Www.broward.edu/observer April 30, 2007 Features Sports Sci-Tech Features Famous BCC Pro and BCC sports New Earth-like Miami Fashion Alumni previews planet found Week Page 20 Pages 14–15 Page 12 Page 18 Spared from Tragedy? All campuses were closed with threat of attack worse than “Virginia Tech”

Photo by Johnny Louis/jlnphotography.com Pembroke Pines Police were on the scene to monitor the shut down on Friday morning.

By Buzz Lamb heard in the background. Ten- Hollywood. The ominous warn- was found referenced Virginia Relations Department, Dr. Lois Staff Writer sion was in the air. ing made reference to BCC Tech and exclaimed “if you Bolton, Provost of Central The scramble to close all and the horrific event that oc- thought that was bad, wait ‘til Campus, received a call at 8 It was an eerie sight: South a.m. from the Hollywood Police Campus devoid of any activity. Department. “She was told Entrances and exits were by the police that they had re- closed off with hastily posi- ceived a threat, a general non- tioned barricades. Yellow crime “if you thought that was bad, wait ‘til you see BCC.” specific threat, about BCC,” she scene tape flapped with a stac- said. “She went about her part of cato in the mid-morning breeze, Handwritten threat, regarding Virginia Tech the communications plan which snaking from one barricade to involved telling the President.” another. Security guards warily of the BCC campuses started curred at Virginia Tech 11 days you see BCC.” Coincidently, when the inci- eyed drivers as they attempted Friday, Apr. 27 at approximately prior. Holcombe was not about All week long students have dent began to unfold, President to enter the campus, only to 10:30 a.m. when BCC President to take any chances. been pouring over notes and Holcombe was in Tallahassee be flagged away as the officers Willis Holcombe issued orders textbooks preparing for their so Thuma was not sure if shouted “the campus is closed!” to evacuate all campuses because What Caused the Commotion? final tests; little did the cam- Bolton contacted Holcombe The red and blue strobe lights on of a handwritten threat, scrawled In an interview on radio sta- pus security officers know they directly or whether she called Pembroke Pines police cruisers on a two foot square pasteboard, tion WIOD, Lt. Bill Bamford of would be tested as well! flashed rapidly and the squawk which was discovered around the Davie Police Department According to Cindy Thuma, ▪ BCC responds of the police radios could be 6 a.m. at a construction site in said the handwritten threat that who works in the BCC Public continued on page 7

April 30, 2007 Central The Observer The ballad and M.C. battle of the world’s best poets By Daniella Dorcelus Central Bureau Chief

Poets Kirk Nugent and Bridget Gray astounded the audience through their candid spoken word in an “open mic” event hosted by Asia. The program was sponsored by BCC Central Campus’ Student Life. Nugent moved the audience with his story of pain and per- severance that later brought him success in his career through his poem entitled “Battle Scars.” The lyrics depicted the plight that Nugent endured while trying to make it in life. Nugent also depicted his battle with depres- sion through an autobiographical poem. The orator described how he was physically abused and robbed of his self-worth. This led him to commit several attempts at suicide; he had tried to over- dose on sickle-cell medication. Photo courtesy of thecollegeagency.com Photo courtesy of kirkNugent.com The birth of his baby boy took a Bridget Gray imbues a powerful urban woman in a struggle to find her Kirk Nugent is a cultural icon for many in the black, spoken word world. complete one hundred degree spi- place and respect in a male dominated world. His life journey and his chronicle of it have put him on top. ral in his life. The poet described how it “brought tears” to his eyes. Bridget Gray also captivated spectators through her bold com- positions. Gray astonished the crowd through her mocking portrayal of rappers such as Jay-Z and Dr. Dre in “My Letter to Hip-Hop.” The poem was influenced by her experience as a video girl after witnessing first-hand how -cer tain rappers degrade and sexually exploit women up close and personal. “I’m writing to inform you I’m going to have to end our relationship. I know in the beginning I was down to work my hips, but I was tricked. Seduced by your beat. You had me for three minutes and forty-six seconds I was suspended in time, but when I snapped out of it I had to ask ‘Did I hear what I thought I did in that last rhyme?....I’m trippin’ cause nobody is acting like anything is wrong. After all the anthem for the new millennium was ‘big pimpin’ … She just gave a piece of her self-esteem away, and it aired nine times on MTV today, and all that for little to no pay, but ‘He’s a hustler baby and he told you so, and when he’s through you’re a video ho.” Gray’s other Poem, entitled “I am a Woman” celebrates her feminist side as well as some aspects of her which may not be so feminine. “i am a woman and i can be compassionate, gentle, loving and sweet … but I can go from zero to b****, in less than 10 seconds. spin your head around so fast you’ll be stunned … see i embrace my all of my masculine and feminine traits. and I accept the fact that there are those that will hate on me because i don’t act like their version of a lady. but i don’t care. yes, i will bring home the bacon, but i’ll have a man fry it up in a pan, because i don’t let gender roles define who i am. i am confident and competitive. i have big feet and walk like i have ba***, but make no mistakes, when i step up to the stage what you hear is my ovaries clang!” The Observer South April 30, 2007 BCC mourns Dr. Sloan to step down By Heather Dulman South Bureau Chief

the massacre at Faculty, staff and clubs came from all different campuses for one reason: to say their good- Virginia Tech byes to Dr. Debbie Sloan, Dean of Student Affairs on South Campus. After 5 years of being dean she is stepping down to work as a counselor. “I’m going back to my roots as a counselor, my true passion…I plan to work another 10 years,” said Sloan. People took time out of their busy schedules to come by South Campus to talk about Sloan. Photo by Johnny Louis/jlnphotography.com “I would only be here for Dr. Debbie Sloan is a treasured fixture on South Campus. Debbie,” said Hillary Fox from Downtown, in the Financial She will step down June 30, friend to me. She will still be Aide office. Dean Hank Martel, but if they can’t find a replace- right down the hall; we won’t President Willis Holcombe, was ment she said she will stay until lose touch.” there just to name a few, the a replacement is found. Sloan “I will miss being able to im- President was being comical will be replacing Susan Malter, pact large numbers of students, about retiring, saying “it is fun; a faculty /counselor. Malter is miss working as a member of you can always come back.” retiring July1. the campus leadership team, Sloan leaves with mixed “I’m not ready to retire yet. I the collegewide and senior stu- feelings but will enjoy a change really enjoy working as a Dean dent affairs team and supervis- of pace to interact with more and as a member of the cam- ing the student affairs staff on students on a one-on-one basis. pus leadership team. I decided South Campus. I am thankful to Sloan worked about 30 years it was time when Susan Malter Dr. Mont Smith, the previous full-time at BCC on different decided to retire. I felt I needed provost of South Campus, for campuses including North and a change. It is a stressful job. hiring me,” said Sloan. Downtown. Before that, she I think it’s time for someone Sloan also said she is look- worked four years part-time in else to get the opportunity. I’m ing forward to more personal Student Affairs. She was also thankful for the opportunity time with her new husband. She interim dean on North for a year BCC gave me and the chance is getting married in May. and was coordinator of counsel- to lead student affairs on South Effective July 1, Sloan will ing/advising both Downtown Campus.” change her last name back

Photo by Johnny Louis/jlnphotography.com and South. Sloan’s assistant Joyce to Martin, but she said she’ll A student holds a lone candle in reverance to those killed and “I have seen changes not Ruzyla will greatly miss work- make sure everyone knows how wounded in the shooting at Virginia Tech. in students but the technology ing with Sloan. to find her. Her former and new the students use…students are “It was a wonderful expe- last name will both appear on By Heather Dulman take that for granted,” said 20- working more, more financial rience for me to work for her. the counselors’ schedule. South Bureau Chief year-old film major, Michael pressure, less time studying. She is the ideal supervisor. The search process to select Parades. There’s a lack of being prepared She is considerate, intelligent, a new dean for student affairs “Amazing grace! How sweet Not only students, but faculty for college. Many are very mo- capable, kind and thoughtful. is underway; the committee’s the sound that saved a wretch and club members expressed tivated and handling college in The thing I’ll miss most is our recommended finalist will be like me! I once was lost, but now their feelings about the incident. despite of personal demands.” relationship. Debbie is like a decided by Dr. Pan. am found; was blind, but now I “We need stricter gun laws. see…” People should feel pity for the A bunch of somber faculty victims and the perpetrator and and students showed up for the feel outrage that the politicians candlelight vigil to honor those won’t deal with it. I’m outraged. who died at Virginia Tech. In This can be prevented if we have the beginning of the ceremony, them,” said English Professor, candles and maroon and orange Scott Feaster. ribbons were passed out to the “Smile, be helpful. Simple participants. gestures can save someone’s English Professor Elisa Albo life,” said the future Vice and student Kimberly Wilson President of SGA Candice recited poems in memory of the James. victims. Counselor Ione Turpin dis- Counselors encouraged stu- cussed different ways students dents to confide in them and that can cope and deal with stress and they would always be there if anxiety. She suggested doing anyone needs to talk to them. things such as exercising, pray- “If you feel depressed or sad ing, reading and doing things talk about it, don’t bottle it up. that are meaningful. Strive for balance, remember to “Do things that make you feel be positive. Take a break. Take good. Remind yourselves you care of yourself. Be produc- are normal, said Turpin. “Talk tive, help others,” said Todd to family. As counselors, we are Westerfield, Counselor at BCC here to support. Come in any South Campus. time and talk about your feelings Students were voicing their to a counselor.” opinions and thoughts about the Vice President but soon to shooting at Virginia Tech. be president of SGA, Orlando “This event shows us that you Fraticelli reminded students can’t take life for granted. Any to pay attention to their sur- moment can be our last. Never roundings and stay alert. give up on your dreams or give “This is our second home. up hope because our lives might You’re the one that can make a be cut short like the students at difference. We are a happy fam- Virginia Tech. Unlike them, we ily and a happy campus,” said have that chance and we can’t Fraticelli. April 30, 2007 NORTH The Observer A healthy sampling of Earth Day By Anthony Perrucci provost Barbra J. Bryan said, North Bureau Chief noting that the campus has in recent years been pushing for Under the sunny skies of mid- environmentally-friendly ma- April and on the green lawn of terials in buildings. Within BCC’s North Campus, students the past five years, Bryan es- were given the opportunity to timated, conservationist senti- educate themselves at the re- ment has gone to the fore, and cent Earth Day celebration in the college is part of the trend. Coconut Creek. The event, held “We’re bringing non-tradition- on Apr. 19, as Earth Day proper al classes into environmental falls on a Saturday, was held to issues,” claimed the provost. give students a chance to learn A nearby booth showed about environmental conserva- this idea in practice. Students tion and provided hands-on in- of Prof. Bobette Wolesensky, teraction with animals native to concerned about the campus’ Florida. population of burrowing owls, The event, with booths native to Florida. The students’ staffed by representatives of owl project was borne of a the Army Corps of Engineers, discussion of sustainability in the burgeoning Outdoors Club Wolesensky’s speech class, said on campus, and a Coral Springs Amanda Rispoli, a sophomore. Whole Foods Market, drew Rispoli went on to explain foot traffic from students on that the feral cats, who roam the campus. Whole Foods, which campus, hunt the owls, which provided a table of organically- nest on the ground. In fact, grown food and drink, had at she explained, feeding the cats its peak of popularity a line of is against the law, subject to a Photo by Anthony Perrucci students snaking through the $15,000 fine. The group of stu- Handler Amy Knight with a young Caracara named Amanda who was featured during the Earth Day event. Breezeway. dents hope to recruit help from The event was indicative of a local spay/neuter program to “We want to save the owls, The event was spearhead- filed away, a few BCC students the environmental “conscious- catch the felines, and take them but also remove the cats safe- ed by the efforts of Dr Peggy circled around for a look at the ness of the [North] campus,” to a no-kill animal shelter. ly,” said Rispoli. Green of the Natural Science animals. Ab Germain, a first- department, who spent most of year student, mentioned that the day running around “solv- the alligator in his hands was ing problems,” she said. his first interaction with the “I [haven’t had time to] fin- animals, “other than shoes and ish a sentence,” she said later, belts.” “but it’s so worth it.” “That is so cute,” said Sharaya Cass, a history major Nesland Joseph, over Germain’s working on an assignment for a shoulder. class Green teaches described “Then why you backin’ herself as being “concerned” away?” Germain asked her, as about the environment. “Well, indeed Joseph came precari- we all should be concerned,” ously close to the edge of the she said. “It doesn’t keep me up stage. at night,” she conceded, “but Nearby a small art display everyone should care.” of “found object” art was nes- With a crowd of young chil- tled in a corner in the breeze- dren from the on-campus Little way. The art on hand included Learners facility on hand, Amy discarded soda cans in a cage, Kight of the Jupiter-based decorated to look like birds. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary pre- Next to that was a small robot, sented a number of animals cobbled together with obsolete native to Florida, such as an video-game systems: an NES, a opossum, and an alligator. “It’s Sega Genesis and a Dreamcast. always nice to have children,” Student Shirly Atilus looked said Kight, “who are the next on. “I think it’s cool if you can Photo by Anthony Perrucci generation” of the eco-con- do something like this,” she Amy Knight holds a baby alligator who makes his home at Bush Gardens Wildlife Sanctuary and demonstrates scious. said, motioning to the art near- his anatomy to interested children. After the children had been by.

Photo by Anthony perrucci Pictured above is a robot that was built from discarded, outdated video game consoles which was displayed to show the use of recycling. The Observer Willis Holcombe Center April 30, 2007

My Accomplishments: Student Artist Profile • BCC Faculty awards Master of publication design, fall 05. • Master of Intro to design, Spring 06. • Master of Art Direction & Final Production, fall 06. • BCC Student Life Award Outstanding Organization member of the year, Spring 06. Lital Asher • BCC Students Juried Art Show featured 5 of my art pieces at the BCC Downtown gallery, summer 06. • National Dean List 2005-2006. • BCC Honors Institute 2005-2006. 24-years-old • Scholarship Recipient from Florida-Israel Institute 2005-2006. • International AIGA poster show the "Inequality Matters" Fort Lauderdale, FL Exhibition featured my poster. November 06, Beijing, China.

Born in Tel-Aviv, Israel Experience: I interned both in Israel and in the U.S. at various design companies, taking part in managing, designing and the production process as well. By Shenna Fernandez ics and different people; I hope I very comforting and inspiring. WHC Bureau Chief can always be involved with the Also, the faculty at the BCC design industry. downtown campus has been How long have you been doing/ amazingly inspiring. Both Rick My Work: interested in graphic design? What are your career goals? McCrawley and Alicia Sobchack I began playing around with The ultimate dream would provide all of us with everything graphic design when I was about be having my own little design we need in order to create great 17, I always liked drawing and studio, where I get to select my projects. Everyday in class re- creating stuff, and slowly I began projects and be involved in the veals new possibilities and the playing around with some of the creative process from start to fin- fact that they always stay on top computer software. After I com- ish. of what is going on in the design pleted my army service in Israel, world helps us get ready for life I enrolled in a 1 year graphic Is there any person/thing that after school. I truly feel lucky and design study program, I wasn’t inspires or has helped/ sup- honored to be getting my educa- sure it was what I wanted to do ported you? tion from such great educators. just yet... after that year I real- Inspiration comes from so ized how much I love designing. many different places ... and My education: There is nothing else I’d rather it’s very hard to point to one Currently - A.S. degree in do for a living. single person. I get most of my graphic design at BCC, I am ex- inspiration from my Boyfriend pecting to graduate in summer What are your plans after of 3 years, Dave; he is the one 2007. BCC? that listens to me go over ideas 2002-2003: Graphic designer My goal is to build my ca- with each new project, and his diploma - “Sela you-university” reer doing what I like. I want to opinion always leads to some in Tel-Aviv, Israel. always be doing something cre- creative solution. He is a graphic ative and productive. I would designer as well, and we share My activities: like to expand my education and a similar style, it is very nice to I try to stay active and be pursue a bachelor’s degree in have someone like him to work involved in the design commu- graphic design; I will probably with. I also think that a lot of nity. I am an active member of do that in the near future. The inspiration comes from seeing AIGA - the American Institute of thing I like a lot about the graph- what other students create; I still Graphic Arts; I am currently the ic design profession is the fact think it’s great every time you Vice president of Anchor Point that the employment possibili- see someone come up with some- - BCC’s Graphic Design club. ties are endless - you can always thing new and fresh. We live in I am a member of Phi-Theta do something different under the a very graphically saturated cul- Kappa and I also belong to NAPP same job title. Each project gets ture, and to see people come up - The National Association of you involved with different top- with unique design solutions is Photoshop Professionals. April 30, 2007 Collegewide The Observer

BCC responds to Need a Competitive Edge? Get it right here! threat of attack College responds with lockdown on Friday morning; reopens Saturday

▪ continued from page 1 note to a student headed to a private school. The note referred to what happened at Virginia Bill Pennell, BCC Chief Tech and it said something like Financial Officer, who was “If you think that was bad, then acting in his stead during the you haven’t seen anything yet,” President’s absence. Thuma said very similar to the threat found that Holcombe flew back that in Hollywood. day after conferring with FAU The report goes on to say President Frank Brogan. Thuma schools were locked down in said that Brogan and Holcombe Rapid City, S.D., and campuses issued the orders to evacuate at St. Edward’s University in the campuses at approximately Austin, Tx., North Dakota State 10:30 a.m. University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga How Did It Go? were all evacuated due to poten- BCC Board of Trustees tial catastrophes. People were so President, Levi Williams, said jittery the day after the incident

“the closing of the campus gave that there was a report of a man File Photo us an opportunity to review the carrying a suspicious object at (Front row, left to right) Wilson Torres, Sheena Fenandez, Rocio (Veronica) Malo, Emily Moorhouse, Tanya threat and make sure that the the University of Oklahoma. The Jackson, Daniella Dorcelus, Daniel Tidings, Janay Chung-Ying. (Back row, left to right) Luis Soriano, Reichel safety of our students and fac- episode turned out to be simply Ferguson-Walker, Michael Ducker, Jr. ulty was preserved.” Williams a man carrying an umbrella. said that Holcombe called him By Buzz Lamb have to serve on a college-wide tending an actual House session at about 10 a.m. on Friday to in- Where Do We Go From Here? Staff Writer committee to see the way things and observing the proceedings form him of his decision to shut Late in the day on Friday get done in a real-life way and from the gallery in the House down the campuses. President Holcombe announced When a person is described to see the challenges that occur chamber. “Let’s be responsible…this via the BCC website that all as having an edge over some- on campus. Tidings said that he learned isn’t a ‘copy cat’ situation. campuses would re-open and one else it typically means they According to Cohen, the how to become a leader and Thank god it isn’t,” Williams operate on normal schedules on have an advantage, a head start, Competitive Edge students also also has come to know the dif- said. “Someone just tried to Saturday. or the upper hand. A competi- travel to Tallahassee for one ferent types of leadership. “The capitalize on the notoriety of the “Our campuses remained tive person is one who is am- week in March to “shadow” a course has made me a better per- Virginia Tech incident.” safe,” said Holcombe. “The bitious, in contention or has a state representative or senator son,” he said. Tidings has been Williams said that staff and threat was from the outside and good chance to succeed. Thus to experience the way the leg- accepted to UF in the political administration has discovered we responded as we did to as- a person who develops a “com- islature works. Cohen said the science program and plans to that BCC is not immune to sure the safety of our students petitive edge” has a distinct students are able to use the in- go on to law school afterward. threats. and staff.” advantage over a person who formation they have gotten from “After that I want to get a job as “We learned that this can Williams said the President does not possess one. Simple the class, the theoretical back- a lawyer in the FBI or perhaps happen to us and we learned and his staff will be review- enough, right? ground, to discern what kind of become a JAG in the military,” that our students are safe,” he ing the evacuation process and A competitive edge is of- strategies are being employed he said. said. Williams said he felt that giving the Board a report at the ten mentioned when referring by the legislators to move their Dr. Barbara Nightingale said the response was quick, decisive next meeting. to prominent sports figures or colleagues from where they are she has been teaching the lead- and swift. “We hope the students “Before Virginia Tech we had teams. One person or team may to where he (she) thinks they ership class since 1996. “The are not negatively impacted by ordered a security analysis. At have preeminence over another. ought to be. course is open to everybody, this,” he said. the last meeting we asked One may be superior to another. Vernon Jones, BCC any student can take the class The Associated Press recently for some follow up since the Ever wonder how some people Competitive Edge Program but anyone who is planning reported that the day after the Virginia Tech incident. This are able develop a dominating Director was the chaperone for on becoming a student leader tragedy occurred at Virginia gives the Board the opportunity position or favorable opportu- the trip to Tallahassee in Mar. should take this course,” she Tech that a 53-year-old man was to look at our current safety re- nity? The answer can be found 2007. “It is a great experience said. The class is offered on arrested in Franklinton, La. for sponse processes and upgrade as right here at BCC. for the students,” he said. Jones Mondays from 2 p.m. to 4:45 allegedly giving a threatening needed,” he said. According to Neil said that the students got to see p.m. only during the fall term Cohen, Assoc. VP/Student the Supreme Court in addition and only on South Campus. Development & Programs, to touring the old and new state Nightingale said that 20 stu- BCC has a Competitive Edge capital buildings. “The leader- dents is the maximum number Program which has been in ship class gives the students of students allowed. She also existence for almost 20 years. a huge edge on other students feels that 20 is the ideal class The main focus of the program who haven’t had the opportuni- size. is a three credit leadership ty to get the guidance and direc- Students who wish to join Meet your class (IDS 2931) presented by tion about leadership,” he said. the Competitive Edge Program Dr. Barbara Nightingale. The Daniel Tidings, 21, a may do so by completing an ap- “edge” is developed by apply- Political Science major on plication, writing a goal state- community. ing what is learned. Central Campus was a partici- ment, providing a current re- The Observer is a bi-weekly publication that Cohen said the program is pant in the program last fall. sume and submitting a letter of reaches an audience of over 60,000 students of designed to give students the “Dr. Nightingale’s course teach- recommendation from a BCC diverse age groups and ethnic backgrounds, as opportunity to observe leader- es the students a formal method faculty member or administra- well as various community institutions. ship in action. “On background, of how to become a leader. tor. Applications are available in addition to the class, the stu- Basically we get to show (in online. We offer attractive rates and sizes for ads. Call dents participate in a variety class) our own different style of Competitive Edge brochures 954-201-8035 for details, or visit us online at of observational leadership ex- leadership,” he said. have applications on the back www.broward.edu/observer and click on “Contact periences outside of the class- While in the leadership class page and have been distributed Us” on the left side of the webpage. room,” he said. Cohen said the Tidings “shadowed” Nancy to all BCC campuses as well. students “shadow” a member Botero, BCC Foundation Call Vernon Jones at 954- of the BCC President’s Cabinet Executive Director and in March 201-6743 or e-mail him at where they attend meetings he “shadowed” Representative for with these people. They also (David) Rivera, as well as at- further information. The Observer Collegewide April 30, 2007 Are we prepared for the worst? Virginia Tech incident a warning to all colleges to have safety protocols in place

By Buzz LamB has the communication respon- ing the day following to review Staff Writer sibility and then there is the site- emergency communication pro- based responsibility of each of cedures. She wanted to make In the wake of the tragedy our campuses,” he said. sure that everyone was up-to- Making BCC Safer that occurred at Virginia Tech Holcombe said that the rea- date with the strategic planning on April 16 the awareness level son for the site-based incident for emergency response. “We What they’re talking about: of how safe our campuses re- management approach is be- have building marshals, we ally are leapt to the forefront of cause something may occur on have two Davie police officers • Sirens on all campuses campus conversations. Two of one campus that does not affect on campus and our security de- • Public Address System BCC’s campuses have experi- the others. “The Provost and the partment works in concert with • Phones in classrooms enced some startling events in Dean of Business and the secu- the Davie police department,” • Inside locks on doors the past few months and students rity people on each campus are she said. “The security office • Weather Alert System and faculty are now more con- the first responders. Of course, reports directly to the Business • Panic Button in classrooms linked to security office cerned with the possibility of an they have notification responsi- Dean on each campus.” • Main Emergency number to call for information event similar to what happened bilities to our office to immedi- Bolton said there has been • Lock-down requirements provided by police in Blacksburg, Va. occurring ately report what is going on,” a lot of support for sirens and • Remote door locks controlled by security office right here in Broward County. he said. public address systems on • Clear tolerance policy regarding disruptive individuals What took place more than Holcombe said on Tuesday Central Campus. “We’re also • Tie-in with BCT to alert people in transit to the campus 800 miles away from us hit home morning he sent out a memo to looking into ‘phone blasting’ • Wireless communication system – campus wide as if it had happened just down all cabinet members to make where a phone message is sent • Electronic marquees on all campuses the street. By Tuesday morning sure they review the incident out much like a fax that is sent • Low power FM radio broadcast the talk on all BCC campuses management procedures on each to multiple phones simultane- • Text Messaging – cell phones was about the unnecessary mas- campus and to make sure every- ously,” she said. She also said • Instant Messaging – Internet sacre which had occurred the day one is aware of their responsi- they are exploring instant mes- • Appoint building managers prior. E-mails were flying back bilities. “We’ll have a discus- saging because it is more than • Security cameras at strategic locations and forth in cyberspace among sion on the results at the cabinet likely that at least one person • Face-to-Face communication teams faculty and staff expressing con- meeting on April 24,” he said. in a particular building is look- • Phone “Blasting” – similar to simultaneous faxes cerns about the safety measures Dr. Barbara Bryant, Provost ing at a computer at any given • Seek guidance from local police departments that are available to prevent a of BCC North Campus said that time during the day. “A public • Contact hospitals to learn their security procedures horrific crime from happening she has done several things fol- address system would probably • Railroad-type gate guards at campus entrances here. lowing the Virginia Tech occur- be the fastest way to inform ev- • Emergency Preparedness Manual The day after the carnage, rence. Shortly after news of the erybody, including the students, • Training in evacuation procedures and crowd control BCC President Willis Holcombe tragedy surfaced she set up a system wide,” she said. • Flashing lights added to current emergency phones said that his first priority was to meeting of her leadership team On Friday, April 20, Dr. • Workshops on identifying potentially volatile situations express his empathy and sympa- to review their incident commit- Shouan Pan, Provost of South • Clearly marked escape routes thy for the families, faculty and tee response procedures. Campus held a one-hour work- staff at Virginia Tech. “The long “The Dean of Students has shop to “brainstorm” ideas and short of it is those things can posted the hours when our coun- to improve campus security. tions plan. “The plan needs to Smith sent an e-mail campus happen anywhere. We have had selors are available for students About two dozen faculty and deal with man-made or natural wide requesting volunteers.It our own issues on campus but who need help in dealing with staff members voiced their con- disasters…hurricane, fire, bomb appears the bottom line is that not as bad as that,” he said. “My this,” she said. “How can any- cerns and shared their ideas with threat or violence,” he said. all campuses have a renewed heart goes out to all of them.” one prepare for something like Dr. Pan and Albert Smith, South Many of the workshop par- awareness and urgency has Holcombe said that the trag- this? We just can’t guard against Campus Business Manager. ticipants voiced the concern that made its way to the forefront. edy has caused him to assure unthinkable attacks,” she said. “We really need to quickly come currently there is no method in The consensus is that there is BCC has created the safest en- Bryant also said that it has been up with a campus-wide commu- place for faculty to alert secu- no question that BCC is vulner- vironment for the students and suggested that the faculty devel- nication plan for students and rity of an imminent danger in able…the question is how can faculty and to have an inci- opment program should include employees,” Pan said. the classroom and there is no that vulnerability be reduced to dent-management approach to training to identify distraught Pan said that he had received way for the classroom door to be a level where faculty, staff and any unforeseen occurrence. “I students. several e-mails with excellent locked from the inside if need students can feel comfortable in am responsible college-wide to Dr. Lois Bolton, Provost for ideas and he wants to come up be. A suggestion was made that an environment where the main coordinate any emergency re- Central Campus said that she with a reasonable, good, effec- a Campus Safety Task Force be focus is education, not eradica- sponse plan and Jillian Printz conducted a morning staff meet- tive emergency communica- instituted and after the meeting tion.

Bachelor’s Degrees possible in BCC’s future By Buzz Lamb ing years to come there would be Staff Writer many changes to the junior/community college system. Another A community college is monumental change is about to uniquely American. Its roots can occur right here at BCC. be traced back to 1901 when At the Board of Trustees meet- William Rainey Harper, then ing Mar. 28 on North Campus, president of the University of BCC President Willis Holcombe Chicago, and a few others who sought the opinion of the board believed in his idea that there members regarding providing should be some type of institu- four-year baccalaureate degrees tion which could bridge the gap at BCC. “I think if the college between high school and higher pursues baccalaureate degrees education. Together they founded it ought to be because it extends Joliet Junior College, America’s our mission to a different level,” first publicly funded two-year Holcombe told the Board. college. All four members present (Paul Similarly, the birth of Florida’s Tanner was absent) indicated that community college system can they were 100 percent behind be traced back to 1927 when St. the idea and gave Holcombe the Petersburg Junior College was go ahead to explore it with staff founded as a private sector two- and to come back to the Board year college. In 1933 Palm Beach Junior college became the first ▪ Four-year degrees Photo by Johnny Louis/JLNPhotography.com public junior college. In the ensu- continued on page 20 BCC’s Board of Trustees may consider the possibility of offering baccalaureate degrees. APRIL 16, 2007 The Observer 10 The Observer Entertainment April 30, 2007 Jock-D plays on By Luis Cabrera enjoying the benefits of having Contributing Writer such a fertile ground base as their launching pad for current Jock-D is bringing Miami success in the music business. Bass back. Between the years Record labels such as Cut 1987 thru 1994 existed a brand It Def and Debonaire launched of Miami music that was thor- artists such as Breezy Beat MC oughly enjoyed by South Florida and DJ Nasty, DJ Debonaire, fans very much in the same Aaron G and Jonski A.K.A. fashion Crunk and Regeaton Latin and Lethal. Other artists rule the airwaves today. The such as DJ Crash Kevin A.K.A genre was called Miami Bass. The Wiz Kids, and Boogie Unfortunately, the internet was Waters also made powerful Photo by New Line Cinema not a major player at the time; contributions in the form of re- Ryan Gosling and Anthony Hopkins star in this spring’s murder drama, but is it a little too like a movie you’ve seen before. in fact it was barely devel- mixing and production work. oped; therefore, the artist had The list goes on. minimum control of his career, Jock-D has started a new creating a breeding ground for label in which he can use as underhanded business ventures a vehicle to re-release the old in which artists were robbed of school classics from the period publishing rights, and not paid as well as release new soon to Fracture: seeing double? mechanical royalties for their be classics from the artists of By Cami Carr However, with all of that drama, there’s also some drama creative efforts. The record la- the day. Cut It Up Def Volume Layout Editor power the film has, it still in the bedroom going on be- bels of the era controlled every 2.0 has emerged and has songs might make a moviegoer want tween him and his new boss- aspect of music from recording available thru iTunes and a host With a hint line of “I Shot to fall to boredom from the pre- to-be, the lovely Rosamund to its distribution and promo- of other sites that sell MP3s. My Wife … Prove It,” we dictability of it all. All the ele- Pike, known best from her tion. For those that search for clas- might be looking at kitsch mur- ments are there: the crime, the work in “The Libertine.” Her Jock-D was among a group sic vinyl to spin Jock has also der movie magic. Or is it some- cunning inmate, drably flatter- role as an older yet sexy senior of young hip-hop artists that pressed up copies especially thing we’ve been fed hundreds ing prison jumpsuits, a highly prosecutor bursts with sexual- for the most part were techni- for those that collect or simply of times before when we’ve file educated yet bumpkin-esque ity and strength as she treads cally too young and naive to prefer that medium. The first to into theater seats? co-star and a plan to fly the lightly on the coals of a bor- fully understand the scope their be released is called “Start The Anthony Hopkins stars in coop of prison with cunning. It derline inappropriate relation- contribution added to Miami Party” which is a Jock-D song this spring’s murder drama, doesn’t help either that all the ship with Gosling. Pike is the Bass, plus they were taken ad- featuring Breezy Beat MC with “Fracture” with a style almost movement and action happens one shining light in the sludge vantage of by the unscrupulous production contributions from hauntingly close to that of his in the first 10 minutes and your of “Fracture’s” stale murder record label owners of the day. DJ Crash and Boogie Waters. character Hannibal Lector in desire for involvement only thriller plot line. Essentially, groups like 2 Live There have been talks underway the Hannibal trilogy series of goes downhill from there. At the very least this film’s Crew and MC Shy-D to men- regarding the possibility of ma- films. The performance is so To brighten up the experi- interest is boosted by the com- tion a few were clearly the jor distribution; however that cookie-cutter-cunning-criminal ence of having to see a beautiful plex knit of intrigue and lies more visible artists when re- remains to be seen. Jock men- for Hopkins that it seems a sur- woman shot in the face by her that form together to make a garding the genre but Jock-D tions “I like the idea of keep- prise that his character doesn’t jealous and quietly unbalanced film that makes you talk about and his band of young B-boy ing it an indie, any pressing and reach out and bite yet another husband, the summery star Ryan it for a long while afterwards. colleagues were the ones to distribution deal would have to unsuspecting co-star. It has to Gosling of “The Notebook,” It most definitely leaves you successfully merged hip-hop provide a more than adequate be admitted however that his this time as a determined yet with questions to ponder on and Miami bass together to cre- budget for promotion in order power and his inflection in his cocky state prosecutor with his afterwards. For a film that will ate a new sub-genre that would for me to agree to cut a portion acting is flawless and you hang eye on an elusive spot at one of satisfy in some ways and leave in fact influence everything of the pie to any corporate en- on every word as if led on col- the most exclusive law firms moviegoers with a pinched from today’s Electro, Crunk, tity.” To learn more about Jock- lar and leash. Hopkins has spe- in Los Angeles. For Gosling’s brow in others, “Fracture” is and Regaeton. For example art- D and Cut It Def Volume 2.0 go cial talent and he has a unique character, it’s a coming of age a good early summer movie to ists like Black Eyed Peas, Pit to .

The Condemned is a violent blast to

By Cami Carr ocean or even moviegoerover the low hills terest of one of the criminals senses Layout Editor on the beach. If one of the ten back home. prisoners can kill the other nine The violence and drama pro- Add together 10 criminals, an before their 30 hours is up, then vided by the game is set off by egomaniacal TV producer with that one person will be released the story of the crew and you dreams of grandeur, a few hot and given a huge cash prize. become distracted by the feel- criminal chicks, tons of death, That is unless at the end of 30 ings of the woman back home and an illegal death game being hours and there’s only one left, who’s watching her loved one broadcasted over the internet if there’s more than one, they be chased down and killed. The and you get this year’s WWE all have their ankle bombs trig- course feelings of some mem- film, “The Condemned.”. gered and they ALL die, forc- bers of the crew show a com- WWE films (The Rundown) ing them to search out and kill plete lack of human empathy in conjunction with Lions Gate each other. and when one of the producers have produced yet another great Part moral, part touching looks into the face of one of the action film with their mega- and all violence, this movie prisoners and says “You don’t dramatic “The Condemned”. pulls together to be extremely have to win – but everyone The basic premise of this movie successful at quenching the plays.”, realize these characters Photo by Lions Gate Films is that 10 criminals are chosen bloodlust in the many hearts are for real – they want the vio- Jack Conrad (Steve Austin) takes on the enemy in The Condemned. from all over the world who of American movie goers. The lence and they want it hard. have been condemned to die in movie is four stories in one, all There is a sense of sensi- only after being beaten, heavily you around during the pass- the near future, they’re taken focusing on one: the game. One tivity to the fairer sex in the molested, and raped. ing of the movie and when the to a remote island, geared up story is the side of the crew, an- form of two women, who just The whole film has a raw moral edge hits you, you really with ankle bomb GPS trackers, other the criminals at play, the happen to be extremely busty. feel which really fuels your in- have a choice of either believ- thrown into the ocean after be- third is the FBI whose ersatz They aren’t slaughtered by terest for it and also provides ing or not. Are WE the reason ing shackled and having a key plan to try and locate the place the violent criminals but kill the viewer with a strong opin- that something so violent could jammed in their mouths before of the island and the final is the themselves by triggering their ion of all characters involved. be watched and spoken about? being pushed down into the story of the abandoned love in- ankle-bomb-GPS-trackers, but A sense of anguish also follows Are WE the problem? April 30, 2007 Entertainment The Observer 11 Mark Wahlberg answers student questions The actor takes part in a telephone interview with students from colleges all over the U.S.

By Andres Lopez ly talented and good at what Entertainment Editor they do. Q: Good, good. In inter- Mark Wahlberg, an actor views you’ve said you plan to born under the zodiac sign of retire from acting around 40 Gemini, on the fifth day of June and you’re 35 now. So why first has just added another credit of all and how does this affect to his extensive repertoire of what projects you choose from roles in the film industry, this here on out? time taking on the lead act- A: Well I said it for two rea- ing role in the film “Shooter.” sons. At the time I was pretty Wahlberg has had much ac- frustrated with the kind of mov- claim for his well executed ies that I was being offered and parts in such great films like the kind of movies that they “Three Kings, The Italian Job, were making. So we commit- Boogie Nights, Planet of the ted to only making the kind of Apes and The Departed” for movies that we would want to which he received an academy go and see which has certainly award nomination. He was able revived my passion for film to give some of his time to an- making. swer questions to several col- I also have two small chil- lege journalists on a recent con- dren and, you know, I’ve been ference interview. The diversity focused on me for a long time

of the college students ranged and at some point, obviously, Photo by Paramount Pictures from Ivy League Universities my attention is going to have to Mark Wahlberg as Bob Lee Swagger in the movie Shooter. to Community Colleges. The shift to them. But hopefully I’ll preceding are just some of the be in a position where I can still past couple years a bunch of going to get me nominated mentioned before that when you several questions that Mark make a movie every year or two different roles. You know, what again. I got to just continue to were talking about your role Wahlberg answered. and, you know, be able to work, do you have, you know, things make the kind of movies that in “The Departed” that your Q: Hi, for this movie, what you know, from time to time. that you think about when you I want to see and that people whole childhood was develop- kind of weapons did you train Q: Hi Mark. Yes, many stu- read a script on whether or not want to see me in and really not ing that character. Could you with to prepare for this role? dents at John Jay participate in you want to do it? Or how do change much. But, you know, elaborate a little more on what Mark Wahlberg: Well I had plays and they may aspire to you choose those roles? I’ve certainly gotten a lot of sort of experiences you had that fired other weapons in other break into acting whether it is A: Basically now we choose offers since the Oscar nomina- formed that role and lot of your movies obviously, but I had on TV or films. So what advice by which films we want to go tion. But you just kind of do other kind of tougher roles that never done something as in- would you give on how to pur- and see in the theater -- which what we’ve always been doing. you’ve done? tense as sniper training. So we sue a successful acting career? roles we think people would Q: I was wondering what A: Well, you know, I grew shot 50 caliber, (Shitech) was A: Well you get out what want to see us in. You know, makes Shooter different from up in the street and getting into the big weapon that we used. you put in -- hard work and de- for a good portion of my career, other high intensity action a lot of trouble. I’d, you know, That’s the one that supposedly termination and, you know, 110 it was all about the film maker movies? spent a lot of my childhood I assassinate the Archbishop of percent commitment can take and we necessarily didn’t focus A: Well the high intensity in and out of Boston Police Ethiopia with. But that was the you wherever you want to go. on the part or the script itself. action movies that they’ve been Stations and, you know, deal- biggest of the weapons that was Q: How did you prepare And, you know, I think we’re making lately aren’t really the ing with cops and crooks and, shot. for this role and how different at the stage of our career where kind of character-driven mov- you know, I just had a pretty Q: Big fan. I got just a gen- was it than your preparation for we got to start satisfying the ies that I love and that I grew tough upbringing. eral question. You’ve been in a “The Departed?” audience, and ourselves. So up watching in the ‘70s. This But, you know, it was all lot of movies where you played A: Well “The Departed,” I basically, yeah. I want to make is kind of a throw-back to that. things that I was able to use in these really iconic roles. So basically lived my whole child- movies that I would want to go You know, you’ve got a guy’s playing that part. I really didn’t what’s your favorite character hood developing that character. and see and that I think people guy who’s all about honor and have to do much preparation. I you’ve played so far? And with this, I had no previ- want to see me in. integrity and, you know, it re- was more familiar and comfort- A: I’d have to say it’s be- ous sniper training, so we went Q: I was wondering how minded me of the great films able with that world than any- tween this character, Dirk to Sniper School and physically being nominated for an Oscar that I grew up watching. It’s body else involved including Diggler, and Sergeant Dignam I had to really transform, before has affected like the way you much more of a Travis Bickle or Martin Scorsese. So, you know, from “The Departed.” I was much heavier from “The choose roles? a, you know, Dirty Harry, than I was glad that, you know, af- Q: Okay. Any reason? Departed.” A: Well, I certainly can’t just it is, you know, a Terminator- ter causing my parents all that A: But (Dirk’s) high up Q: I just wanted to ask you, start looking for like English type character. grief that I was able to put it to there. Well they’re all extreme- you know, you’ve done in the period dramas and stuff that’s Q: All right, thanks. You good use.

Winter Music Conference opens the night with Ultimate Ears By Andres Lopez flight 18, located at 4833 Collins known as trance-techno. business. player and it sounds awesome.” Entertainment Editor Avenue in Miami Beach, Florida, For some DJs it was their Ultimate Ears, a company Kelly Duke stated that Ultimate the music began to stir the eu- first time playing in South that manufactures earphones Ears is “a brand that caters to A yearly event that has be- phoria of hundreds of fans that Florida, such is the case for for both the general public and both the professional who looks come tradition to those who are came together to listen to some Ralph Kollman who having also to professionals in the mu- for the latest innovative technol- knowledgeable of the trance/ of the best DJs in the world. This had a plethora of experience in sic industry who prefer to have ogy available on the market as techno music occurred on the euphoria was possible due to Europe was able to give attend- custom-molded earpieces made well as for the music lover who week of March 21st, 2007, the the collaboration of Immigrant ees moments that would not be by them, such as John Legend, just wants to better their listen- event was the Winter Music Records and Ultimate Ears that forgotten. He said “it was a great The Killers, and 30 Seconds To ing experience.” As the night Conference. People began to joined forces to sponsor the of- time to play down here in South Mars just to name a few clearly faded away to what ended as fly into Miami from all around ficial opening night party for Florida and see how friendly showed why DJ’s and perform- Thursday morning and began as the world to what is a gathering the winter music conference. and appreciative the people are ers alike choose them to be their a Wednesday night party, Marta that brings thousands of people DJs such as Miss Kittin, Adam of trance music.” Ultimate Ears product of choice when it comes Serna, a college student from to listen to the music that brings Beyer, Anja Schneider, and and Immigrant Records, two to selecting an earphone. South Florida said about the passion to their hearts. Ralf Kollmann were present to companies that are well known Jonathan Daniels, an attendee party “It was one of the greatest At The Miami Beach Resort showcase their ability to spin in the music industry showed of the opening night party said, experiences I’ve had on Miami and Spa Star Bar also known as the tracks that make music be why they are on top of the music “I use the ear pieces on my mp3 Beach.” 12 The Observer Science and Technology April 30, 2007 New ‘Earthlike’ planet discovered The search for life heats up with new possibilities By William Breim Five times heavier than Sci-Tech editor Earth, the gravity would be 1.6 times stronger. The discover- Scientists have discovered a ers are not sure if it is rocky an new exoplanet and this time it icy planet, if it is rocky which is a particularly exciting one. It is the prevailing idea the plan- is the most “Earth like” planet et would have a diameter 1.5 ever found, it orbits a star called times bigger than earth. Gliese 581I which is 20.5 light It is not likely that we’ll be years away(120 trillions miles). visiting the planet anytime soon Gliese is a red dwarf star which as we don’t have the technology is a relatively small and cool to get there yet, at least not in a star. More importantly is that human lifetime. But consider- the planet lies in what astron- ing the size of the galaxy and omers call the “Goldilocks” the universe the planet is lit- zone, which is a certain dis- erally next door to us. At only tance from a star where it is not 120 trillion miles away, the red too hot or too cold conditions dwarf star that this planet cir- which are just right for liquid cles is one of the 100 closest to water and life. Earth. ‘Super-Earth’ is believed to This is part of the ongoing have temperatures between 0 effort in getting closer to the and 40 degrees Celsius(32 and answer to one of the most fun- 100 Fahrenheit) therefore water damental questions humanity Photo courtesy European Southern Observatory (ESO) would be liquid at the surface ever proposed. “Are we alone and where there is liquid water in Universe?” Astronomers have discovered the most Earth-like planet outside our Solar System to date, an exoplanet in the Goldilock zone. the chances of finding life as we know are increased. Basically when looking for alien life scientists are first looking for signs of liquid water. SETI(Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) which has been using radio telescopes to scan the skies for telltale signs of an alien made radio transmission is already planning on turning its “ears” to the region. The European team of sci- entist that found the body used the European Southern Observatory telescope in La Silla, Chile. Using a technique in which they observe the star “wobble.” The principle is simple; a planet going around a star makes that star wobble much like an Olympic hammer- thrower wobbling while swing- ing the weight. It is obvious that the athlete is holding on to a weight even if all one can see is the thrower’s body spinning and wobbling. Using very so- phisticated techniques the telescope splits the light from the star to find the signs of wobbling in different wavelengths. So scientists can estimate what size of planet is causing the wobble and how fast it is going around the star.

Gliese 581 C

Earth

8,000mi

12,000mi

EXOPLANET GLIESE 581 C Mass: Five times Earth’s mass Orbit: 13 days Temperature: 0C - 40C Distance: 20.5 light years Constellation: Libra April 30, 2007 Ad The Observer 13 14 The Observer APRIL 30, 2006 Sports APRIL 30, 2006 The Observer 15

By Belal Jaber be consistent in their play. Weakness: Despite having 1. Detroit Pistons (53-27) Andrea Bargnani(appendicitis). anything useful from last season’s Staff Writer Duncan isn’t the same guy he two prolific scorers on the Strengths: Chris Webber sud- 36-3 when ahead in the forth quar- first round series against the once was and they must step floor at the same time, the denly rejuvenated and playing ter. Intensity. Free throw shooting Heat? 1. Dallas Mavericks up in order for the Spurs to go Nuggets played average when well. Chauncey Billups is always (78 percent.) Prediction: First Round. Lose Strengths: Coach Avery far. they played together. They performs well in the clutch. The Weaknesses: Inexperience, lack to the Heat in six. Johnson is a coach of the year Prediction: If Duncan need to be more consistent. bench has improved with im- of depth, bad road team (17-24), candidate. His team has im- plays smart, and Parker and Key Players: Iverson and proved play by Carlos Delfino, Flip 11-31 trailing in the 4th quarter. 6. New Jersey Nets (42-40) proved on defense and has a Ginobili stay healthy, the Anthony are going to score. Murray and Antonio McDyess, Key Player: Chris Bosh. A Strengths: Perimeter shooting. deep rotation. Spurs could be the team to The Nuggets need Nene to now they have to keep that level younger, more versatile version Vince Carter can put up 40 any Weakness: Dirk Nowitzki beat in the West. bring his regular season con- in the playoffs. of Tim Duncan. Can post up and given night. Jason Kidd is still an has to have a good playoff sistency to the playoffs. Weaknesses: Lacking qual- shoot 20 foot jumpers. Basically elite point guard that can also re- run. He has a history of being 4. Utah Jazz Prediction: Iverson and ity big men. The Magic’s Dwight unguardable. bound. Center Mikki Moore has just average in the post-sea- Strengths: They play hard Anthony can together pro- Howard in the 1st round will test Intangibles: They could draw stepped up, filling the void Nenad

son. That isn’t good enough. every game and Coach Jerry duce 60 points. If they get their inside D. Rasheed Wallace a tired Pistons or Heat team if they Kristic left after his season end- Ea

e Key Players: Teams will Sloan runs a very precision help from others, they could and his short fuse, he had more advance to the Conference Finals. ing injury by leading the league in focus first on Nowitzki. Jason type offense and a great de- make a run. than 15 technical fouls this season. Prediction: Second Round. field goal percentage. Terry and Josh Howard have fense. Is Flip Saunders a playoff coach? Lose to Cavs in six. Weaknesses: Defense. Vince c

to be ready to step up their Weakness: They lack scor- 7. Los Angeles Lakers Key Player: Chauncey Billups. Carter has a history of playoff fu- s game. ing from shooting guard spot Strengths: Perhaps the best He can go 0 for 7 and still have the 4. Miami Heat (44-38, defend- tility. When Jason Kidd is on the

Prediction: Dallas has and aside from Carlos Boozer; player in the league in Kobe confidence to sink the game-win- ing NBA champions) bench, the team seems lost. t played about as good as one they don’t have a guy who can Bryant, he is capable of car- ning shot. Strengths: Experience. Talent. Key Player: Vince Carter. If he

team can. You have to think play in the post. rying this team. Intangibles: Experience. Same 10 players deep. Has won a cham- finally does well in the playoffs,C ern the title is theirs to lose. Key Players: Carlos Boozer Weakness: All season it’s team for the last three years. pionship on the road. Pat Riley as the Nets could go far. has played well all season and been all Bryant all the time. Prediction: Second Round. Head Coach. Punishes inside, then Intangibles: Richard 2. Phoenix Suns if he will be relied upon to He can try, but it will be tough Lose to the Heat in six, Flip spreads the game outside. Has Jefferson’s ankle. After the sur- Strengths: The Suns play a carry the Jazz at least pass the to carry the workload in the Saunders retires and becomes a overcome 59 total games missed gery, he has been tentative. high tempo, fast paced game. first round. playoffs. yoga instructor. by Shaq and Wade. Prediction: Second Round. They also have the reign- Prediction: The Jazz is a Key Players: Kobe is a Weaknesses: Three-point Lose to the Cavs in seven. ing two-time MVP, Steve very good defensive team. scoring machine. Lamar 2. Cleveland Cavaliers (50-32) shooting(25th in the NBA.) nferenNash running their offense. It Making it past the first round Odom and Smush Parker are Strengths: Defensive rebound- Antoine Walker’s tippy toes. Lack 7. Washington Wizards (41-41)

doesn’t get much better than isn’t out of reach for this healthy and need to be at the ing (second in the East.) Strong at of defensive intensity. Once frus- Strengths: They put up a fight o

o that. team. Anything further than top of their game. home (30-11.) Forward Anderson tration settles in, the game gets out every game, resilient team. Weakness: Phoenix relies that, however, might be. Prediction: Bryant will Varejao brings energy and re- of hand. Weaknesses: They lost their nferen solely on their offense. If they draw two, sometimes even bounding from the bench. Good Key Player: Dwayne Wade. two best players (Caron Butler

C don’t play a little defense, 5. Houston Rockets three defenders. His team- three-point shooting team with Unguardable when healthy, can and Gilbert Arenas.) Struggle de- they may be in trouble. Strengths: The team is well mates will get open looks, Donyell Marshall and Damon shoot threes and go to the basket. fensively. Without “Agent Zero,” Key Players: Shawn organized and always pre- and if they can sink them, Jones. 10+ free throw attempts per game. the Wizards don’t have a reli- Marion had perhaps his best pared. The have perhaps the then they control their own Weaknesses: Free Throw The definition of a clutch player, able scorer that can step up in the season this year. His play in best two man combination in destiny. shooting (69 percent, worst in the also keeps teammates involved fourth quarter. the playoffs is crucial if the the West with Yao Ming and NBA). LeBron James’ tendency throughout the game. Lack of Key Player: Antawn Jamison.

ERN Suns want to make it far. Tracy McGrady. 8. Golden State Warriors to settle for long jumpers or three point guard depth. He will need to become a true su- Prediction: The team’s lack Weakness: The team Strengths: They have pointers at the end of games. No Intangibles: Wade’s left shoul- perstar.

T of defense may hurt them. An runs their offense through played well during the stretch. depth, if you stop James, you stop der. Will it be well enough? Intangibles: This is a team no- early exit wouldn’t be sur- McGrady and Yao. If one of They’re healthy and hot at the the team itself. Prediction: NBA Champs. body believes in, maybe that will prising if their games become the two is stopped, they lack right time. Be afraid. Key Player: LeBron James. Defeat Spurs in seven. fuel them. an offensive war with their help from the other positions. Weakness: Very offensive Trying to improve compared to Prediction: First Round. Lose c

ES opponents. Key Players: The off-sea- minded. They need to be at last year, will need to prove he can 5. Chicago Bulls (49-32) to Cleveland in four.

son addition of Shane Battier least, average on defense to come up big when it counts. Strengths: Perimeter shooting. e 3. San Antonio Spurs will be instrumental in get- be taken seriously. Intangibles: Team unity. If the Have many good players, not just 8. Orlando Magic (40-42) W Strengths: They can get ting the ball to Yao down Key Players: Baron Davis Cavs can find a reliable second one superstar. Best defensive team Strengths: Inside presence. scoring from both the back- low. Rafer Alston can be the and Jason Richardson make scoring option, they will be that in the conference. Andres Nocioni Three point shooting. Above aver- court and the frontcourt. They surprise for this team if he is a lethal combination. They much more difficult to deal with. provides energy and intensity, age rebounding. are maybe, the best coached more selective in his shots. can make big shots when they Prediction: Conference Finals. Kirk Hinrich is the brain of the Weaknesses: Lack of depth. team in the league. Prediction: If McGrady and matter most and will be relied Lose to the Heat in seven. D-Wade team, Ben Gordon can light it up Inexperience. Not enough consis- Weakness: There isn’t much Yao play well, the sky is the upon to do just that in the first and LeBron provide an instantly from three-point range. tent offense. help from off the bench. Tim limit for the Rockets. A trip round. classic performance and a new ri- Weaknesses: No post offense Key Player: Dwight Howard. Duncan has a problem getting to the Western Conference Prediction: The Warriors NBA Playoff valry is born. whatsoever. Ben Wallace is the The best young center in the NBA, into foul trouble. He’s the Finals is in their reach. ended the longest playoff worst free throw shooter in the his- he is an imposing presence in the team’s best player. The Spurs drought of any team in the 3. Toronto Raptors (47-35) tory of the NBA. Lack of depth. paint. need him on the court, and not 6. Denver Nuggets league. Now they must make Strengths: Strong home team Key Player: Ben Gordon. Cold Intangibles: They are the un- on the bench. Strengths: Allen Iverson the most of it. They could be (30-11). Overcame adversity after blooded in the last few minutes of derdog, no pressure. Key Players: Tony Parker and Carmelo Anthony on the big surprise team this post- Preview season ending injuries to starter the fourth quarter. Prediction: First Round. Lose and Manu Ginobili need to same team. Enough said. season. Jorge Garbajosa (broken leg) and Intangibles: Have they learned to the Pistons in six.

f L y i n g h I g h Long Summer for Baseball By Martin Bater them and make them a motivation, process has gone, I would say the or nine deep, allowed it to make he expressed admiration over how the By Omar Torrijos of 3-0. anyone in particular, the coach One of the biggest obsta- against PBCC this season. Sports Editor not a detriment. That’s what cham- season has been a success.” Said losing one of the five singles play- newcomers “gelled” with last year’s re- Staff Writer Sadly for the players, coach used the word in a sense of a cles in the classification of the For next season coach pionship teams do. Mason, trying to keep the Seahawks ers a less painful blow than it other- maining players, who remained humble Deutschman, the students and frustrating end to a season that Seahawks to the Tournament is Deutschman finished saying Expectations. It’s all about ex- The Lady Seahawks tennis team flying under the radar. wise could have been with a shal- and eager to repeat. At the beginning of the season everyone who not long ago fol- even before starting was full Palm Beach Community College that he will be back with an- pectations in sports today, and as faces high expectations this year as The regular season ran smoothly low roster. Even if this team is a little inferior the expectation were big, maybe lowed carefully the number one of realistic expectations. “I’m which finished second in the other roaster and hoping to your team gets bigger and better, defending national champions. With this year. With a 9-4 overall record Coach Mason named Alyona compared to last year’s team, BCC won because of how last season ended, team in the nation, the season pleased with the work ethic, division with an overall record start another run towards the the expectations grow with it as an experienced coach in LeTrone and 5-1 in the conference, Mason’s Tsutskova, who is 10-3, his regu- every single series except one in last perhaps because of having most of is over for the Seahawks, they but we didn’t achieve much, of 40-12 and a Conference title contention. He also con- well. After that, it’s up to the coach Mason, who knows what the road team has dominated while waiting lar season MVP. He also was im- year’s national tournament. The level the talent back for their sophomore have been eliminated from any most of the freshmen came record of 19-6. In first place gratulated Sergio Morales who and the team’s leaders to handle to a national championship is like for the real competition (the state pressed about the outstanding level of play may have evened out, but as year, or possibly because this BCC tournament contention. back so there were a lot of ex- was Miami Dade Community was elected Player of the Year and everything it and national tournaments) to start. of play Zoricic and Chandra Capote defending champions, BCC still has the Seahawks Baseball team has been The way the season ended pectations,” said the coach. College with takes, the girls are The team has its flaws, but winning have displayed this year. upper hand going into this year’s tourna- one of the most talented ever for for the team wasn’t the way it The Seahawks ended the an overall of ready to smash the makes it easier to spot them and fix Going into the playoffs, this ment. the school. was meant to be, or as coach season losing 11 of their last 43-10 and a competition and them. team seems to be more talented but Tennis at a team level can be tricky. The season began the same Deutschman said, “You can 16 games and finishing with C o n f e r e n c e come home from “We have to be mentally stron- with less experience compared to You could win your singles and doubles way last one ended, winning. By have the best team and some- an overall record of 31-20 and of 20-5. “No Arizona with the ger when we trail [in a series]” said last year’s team. matches but the team itself could lose March 6 the BCC Seahawks were times have the biggest disap- a Conference record of 12-13. position in trophy they are try- Natasha Zoricic, a newcomer with “I don’t think inexperience is a the series as well. There is only so much on top of the world -well maybe pointment, more after having “We didn’t score as much, we PBCC was ing to protect. lots of talent that has been one of factor. We can sneak up on teams you can do. not the world, but definitely the such a great year on 2006.” got outscored, we had a bad better than “Even if we the bright spots this year with a that don’t expect us to do much” We know the Florida Gators did it in country. Our baseball team was Disappointment was a word the stretch. The same group of us,” said the don’t win it all, solid 11-2 record. added Mason. basketball a couple of months ago, we ranked first in the State of Florida coach used often when asked players didn’t play the same coach; how- the way we played The girls have also had to battle Coach Mason thinks that the also know the Miami Heat want to do it, and even better, first in the coun- to evaluate the season that is at the beginning of the season ever BCC lost this year and the injuries throughout the season, but only similarity between last year and I believe this team can and will win try with an overall record of 19-4 just over, but he didn’t use the than at the end,” said coach a total of 5 out way the learning the depth this team has, being eight and this year is the team chemistry, it all once again. and a Southern Conference record word as a matter of blame to Deutschman. of 6 games

Photo by Johnny Louis/jlnphotography.com 16 The Observer SPORTS April 30, 2007 Roberto Luongo finally shining By Belal Jaber eluded him during his profes- Carolina. But Luongo is differ- Staff Writer sional career. Sure, nobody ever ent. Six seasons on the Panthers, doubted his ability. And next to and continuous problems with When the Florida Panthers New Jersey Devils goaltender, management along with constant traded Roberto Luongo to the Martin Brodeur, there isn’t an- losing while playing on a medio- Vancouver Canucks last sum- other team that relies on their cre team, Luongo has become a mer, some people believed that goalie the way the Canucks do. common name in Canada. There the deal was a home run for the But this year, Luongo is finally are billboards in Vancouver with Canucks. Now, after signing a going to be able to make a name his face on it. He is in television long term contract with the team, for himself on the grandest stage commercials and has become the and making a trip to the post-sea- of his life. face of the Canucks franchise. file photo son for the first time in his seven There have been goaltenders in Players and coaches around Roberto Luongo defending with style. year career, Luongo has proven the past that have gone to the play- the league know that Luongo is a champion. And that is a title those who wait. Roberto Luongo that deal wasn’t a home run. It offs and became Cinderella type good. But in sports, good isn’t Luongo deserves. He wears the is living proof. He just hopes his was a grand slam. successes such as J.S. Giguere in enough. You must be able to raise number one on his jersey. It fits Cinderella story ends in a happily Luongo is finally getting the Anaheim, Miikka Kiprusoff in your level of play so that you are him well. ever after. And that happens when accolade and acclaim that has Calgary or even Cam Ward in worthy enough of being called They say good things come to he raises the Stanley Cup.

MVP Kobe Bryant By Belal Jaber at least 50 points in a game ten Staff Writer times. Nash has Shawn Marion and With the NBA regular season Amare Stoudemire. Nowitzki has coming to an end, the debate will Jason Terry and Josh Howard. begin to intensify as fans, as well In Los Angeles, Bryant has been as people within the league, argue pretty much running a one man over who should win the season’s show. Bryant’s team has faced awards. Perhaps the most popular injuries all year, yet he has single piece of hardware to be handed handedly carried the work load out will be that of MVP. for his team and solidified a play- It seems as if this season, the off spot for the Lakers. And even candidates are being narrowed with him running the offense, down to twol; between Dallas Bryant has still managed to aver- Maverick power forward Dirk age over five rebounds and five Nowitzki and Phoenix Sun point assists a game. guard Steve Nash. Granted, cas- And let us not forget that this es can easily be made for why season he has scored at least 50 the two of them should win the points in a game ten times. award, I believe that neither of So for me, the decision is an them should get it. Instead, I be- easy one. Kobe Bryant should lieve Los Angeles Lakers guard win the award as league MVP. He Kobe Bryant is easily the best is the closest thing the sport has choice. to Michael Jordan. He can score. This season he has scored He can defend. And he is finally at least 50 points in a game ten showing the league, as well as all times. his critics, that he can win with- He is averaging 31.5 points out playing with a certain seven per game. That’s seven more footer on his team. points than Nowitzki and 13 So now it is up for the league more points than Nash. Bryant to make the call. And it should be also plays more minutes than the an obvious one. The MVP should two. In addition, Kobe has had to be given to the best player in the do more with less. That’s a prob- league. And that player is some- lem that neither Dirk nor Steve one who this season, has scored has. at least 50 points in a game ten And this season he has scored times.

file photo NBA MVP Kobe Bryant April 30, 2007 Ad The Observer 17 18 The Observer Features April 30, 2007 The dramatic design of Fashion Week

First Lady of Columbia, Lina Moreno de Uribe, and Beth Sobol.

By Johnny Louis Photo Editor

he four-day event in Miami Beach, andT the largest Latin American fashion event in the U.S., explodes onto the scene with over 70 of the world’s most talented fashion designers in women’s eveningwear and prêt-a-porter, men’s wear, jewelry and accessories from April 13–16. This year it was held at the Wynwood Pavilion in Miami’s new Wynwood Fashion District. This spectacular event brings together fashion, beauty, music and art with a crossover of international style and culture from designers, entertainers and celebrities from all over the world including Spain, India and Italy among others.

Attracting an array of the most talented emerging and established designers in the world, Miami Fashion Week will present the latest col- lections from designers Cecilia Perez, Jeronima Palacio, Monica Bursztyn and John Estrada from Colombia, MLO and Trizia from Argentina, Brazil’s Tereza Santos and Aline Alcântara, Panama’s Federico Visuetti, Jaime Luna and Edda Gonzalez, India’s Suhani Pittie, Paridhi Sahai, Chandni Munjal and Peacock Couture, Mexico’s Julia y Renata, José Maria Torre, Marvin & Quetzal, Maringo and Samuel Burstein, Italy’s Fernando Bustamante, plus many more designers from Spain, Peru, Venezuela, Costa Rica, and Twinestones Jewelry designers which grab the attention of many buyers from all major retail outlets.

Miami Fashion Week is the brainchild of Beth Sobol, president of “Sobol Fashion Production.” Beth was named one of the 50 Most Powerful People in 2007 in Reel Life Magazine. This year fashion designers have brought their game fabric face on, with color that could only be described as fireworks on stage with Latin, Caribbean and Middle East and Asia showcases.

photos by Johnny Louis/jlnphotography.com April 30, 2007 Features The Observer 19 Human Resources? A look at what BCC’s HR department really does for you

By Buzz LamB cessful,” she said. in a bank for two years as a bank Staff Writer Chun began as VP on Jul. 29, teller and then I became a cus- 2006 and came to BCC from the tomer services representative. We have all heard about HR Sate University of New York at Then I got a job at European/ but does anyone know what they Geneseo where for three years American Bank where it was my really do? Just what is the Human she served as chief HR and first HR job,” she said. Chun said Resources Department supposed Affirmative Action Officer. Prior that she learned HR from the to do and how do they do it? to that, after working in New York bottom up and over the years her Here’s the skinny on BCC’s HR City hospitals she spent a decade education was not viewed as an Department and its brand new in California in public higher asset by others. “My degree was Vice President, Dr. Edna Chun. education and was elected Chair totally unrelated to what I was The BCC Human Resources and Vice-Chair of the 21-campus doing,” she said. Department produced a pamphlet Personnel Director’s Association Chun said that she never had in Jan. 2007 which stated the five in the California State University a mentor to help her move up in major goals of the department. System. After her stint in her positions. She said making All goals strive to create a bet- California she served as associ- advances in her career required ter work environment for BCC ate VP for HR at Portland State that she move to achieve her faculty, staff and administrators University in Portland, Ore. goals. Chun said it is important Photo by Buzz Lamb beginning with recruitment and Growing up Chun was an ac- for her to believe in the work carrying through to retention. complished piano player and in that she is doing. “Over the years Dr. Edna Chun, Vice President of Human Resources Dr. Chun said the HR depart- her youth she was focused on I have done a lot of work in di- on a daily basis. “No day is the values employee contributions ment has been a long-standing improving her musical skills. versity and I am very proud of same…every day is different. It and positions the HR depart- department at BCC but her po- “As a young adult I wanted to that work. The world today has is always very, very busy. You’re ment to become more effective. sition is new to the college. “To be a piano professor,” she said. changed dramatically,” she said. never bored,” she said. Chun said that she is working on have a position that focuses on Chun received a Bachelor of Arts Chun believes that in our Dr. Chun said throughout a compensation study and will be human resources alone is new (at degree from Oberlin College, community college environment her career she has focused on presenting it to the Board. BCC),” she said. Chun said her a Master of Music degree from our students and our faculty are the strategic role that human On Apr. 9 contract arbitration predecessor had different portfo- Indiana University and a Doctor very diverse. “BCC can com- resources has played in helping talks began for the new teacher’s lios and had a couple of different of Music with High Distinction pete in this new global society. departments achieve their goals. contract at BCC. Chun said she areas that he supervised. Chun from Indiana University as well. With our international programs, She has been a frequent present- and her office will be heavily says that she reports directly to Chun said that as a teenager with our demographics, with our er and panelist at national and involved in the contract negotia- the college president rather than growing up in Mount Vernon, large student population…it is regional conferences such as the tions. “I think the process will go to a financial person as is typical N.Y. she was more interested something that I am very excited American Council on Education much more smoothly this year,” in other college environments. in studying music than other about,” she said. and the College and University she said. “We are working on According to Chun, the fo- activities. At Oberlin she had Chun said the best part of her Personnel Association. a training program on some of cus of her department is now on to make an adjustment to small job is being able to work with Chun’s primary focus at BCC the aspects of the contracts … people. She plans to underscore town living in a rural environ- three different campuses. She will be strategic planning. She in case some people might need the value that people bring to ment. “I was happy when I went said that her department is now and her staff will be instituting help with understanding some of the college. She said that the ef- to a much bigger place (Indiana sending teams on a rotating ba- a Faculty/Staff Development the provisions.” fectiveness of BCC is directly University).” Chun put herself sis to all campuses to make the Master Plan which will provide A new position, a new per- linked to the benefits that the HR thru graduate school by teach- department more accessible. On HR with the tools necessary for son in charge and a new focus department can provide to the ing. “I was never able to find a a typical day she will conduct the college to compete as a vi- is where the Human Resources college. “It is an intangible value teaching job in music, it’s so staff meetings to keep the lines able employer in South Florida’s Department is currently posi- as opposed to a defined asset. highly competitive, especially in of communication open among culturally diverse environment. tioned. Chun said that she sees What people bring to the table, piano,” she said. the different divisions of HR. According to Chun, the plan herself still at BCC five years their creativity, their innovation, Chun said her entire career af- She works on strategic issues, implements a comprehensive from now and hopes to increase their talent, their diversity is ter college has been in HR. “My deals with transactional issues approach to developing and sus- communications and to help em- what makes an organization suc- career started at the very bottom, and employee relations issues taining an organization which ployees flourish.

By Emily MoorhousStoriese enrolled twobehind years ago, first dents select astudent’s major as natu- jor, respiratory care. Whenmajors he to medical school and becom- Staff Writer thought about engineering as a rally as Tenenbaum or Noel. It came to BCC in 2003, Kadir ing a doctor. Kadir now hopes major at around 12 or 13 years took Felipe Vargas-Mendelson was initially attracted to pre- to become an anesthesiologist. With several hundred majors old and made up his mind at some extra time to realize his pharmacy because his father “I enjoy caring for patients and to choose from, a BCC student about 15. As a young boy he passion. He started BCC a year is a pharmacist and he wanted learning about the human body has any number of routes to would take things apart. He has and a half ago as an engineer- to be financially secured in and the medical research that take, making their final choice even taken apart and put back ing major, but discovered that it the future. However, once he comes … and the money’s not of major that much more dis- together a computer and a tele- was too much work and would started the required chemistry bad either!” he said. “If I would tinct. It may take the switch- vision. “I like technology and not allow him “to combine so- sequence, he realized it would do it for free (in the clinical ro- ing of majors a few times, but how things work,” he said. cial sciences with factual infor- be harder than he expected and tation), I know I would enjoy usually students end up find- Often times, it is in get- mation.” He realized he wanted not a very enjoyable career for it.” ing their niche and, not just ting a high school education “interaction with people” and him since it would be based on Though these are just a few by picking out of a hat, but by that one realizes the discipline noticed he was “good at mak- chemistry. “So I was searching of the thousands of unique giving it careful consideration. they want to study in college. ing educated guesses in finan- for something that would al- stories among BCC students, The students on BCC’s Central Noel Ike, 21, a TV produc- cial situations,” so he decided low me to keep moving along they represent several of the Campus shared their personal tion major said “I took tele- he wanted to be a financial ad- with my education and land me core factors driving students stories about selecting a major. vision production in my high visor and switched his major a safe job at the same time… I in their major selections. Some Sometimes a major is simply school my freshman year.” It to finance. Finance, he said, changed my major several times students have passions stem- meant to be. Adam Tenenbaum, was then where he discovered “dictates the quality of life.” in three months. Then I came ming from childhood, some 20, is studying Video Game how much he enjoys “working “Everything has a value – it across respiratory care through were inspired by high school Development and Design. He with cameras and the creativ- is either time or money.” His a friend who is a respiratory courses, and others had to do said that he discovered this pas- ity that you have with editing focus in pursuing a career in therapist.” Kadir made a final some research. Ultimately, the sion in middle school “When and visual effects,” he said. finance will be “about helping major change to respiratory key final ingredient in happily I did a project on Nintendo.” Similarly, Christine Anthony, people solve problems,” not care. “After caring for patients deciding on a major stood out To this day, Tenenbaum wants 19-year old business major de- about simply making money and interacting with doctors” clearly; discovering a true in- to work for Nintendo. Fellow cided business would be her for himself. at four hospitals/care centers terest in a discipline, rather student, Diego Moreno, 19, path after taking accounting in It also took considerable for his respiratory care clini- than other motives such as sim- who has been majoring in me- high school. research to help Amir Kadir, cal rotation classes, he decided ply wanting to make money or chanical engineering since he Unfortunately, not all stu- 21, finally decide on his ma- to research the path to going abiding by parental wishes. 20 The Observer Features April 30, 2007 Professor Profile: William Kunz By Greg Rosenberg ing around, seeing everyone in Four-year degrees Contributing Writer business attire and only hearing the sound of typing, “I knew ac- After teaching at Broward counting wasn’t for me”, Kunz Community College of over said with a sense of relief. coming soon? seven years, Professor William After the interviews with dif- ▪ continued from page 8 Kunz has earned the respect and ferent accounting firms, Kunz trust from many students. “He’s a was offered a teaching position at great teacher and I like his style Silver Trail Middle School, which meeting in May with their rec- of teaching. He uses a lot of ex- he accepted. After teaching at ommendations. “It’s about amples and [to me] that makes Silver Trail Middle, Kunz taught damn time,” said Board member him a strong teacher,” Michael at Cypress Bay High School for Cheryl Krause. Romero, a Social Science major a year prior to being hired by In 2001 the Florida Board of said. Broward Community College in Education authorized Chipola Photo by heather dulman Photo by Buzz Lamb In 1992 Kunz graduated from 1999. Junior College to partner with Professor William Kunz April Cuthbertson, Nursing BCC, then furthered his education 1999 was a busy year for Kunz, FSU to offer bachelor’s de- student: “I could go to Miami- at Florida International University. besides being hired by the college, there’s a sense of relief from stu- grees in business administra- Dade but I like it better at While attending FIU, Kunz this teacher with an accounting dents that need a second Gordon tion, nursing and secondary BCC, they care more about my education.” was set on being an Accountant degree completed his Master’s of Rule math class, such as Martha education. It also authorized and received his Bachelor’s in Science in Math Education from Cabeza, an aspiring teacher. Edison Community College to 30 students in Spring 2008 and Accounting in 1995. Shortly af- Nova Southeastern University. “Professor Kunz is very fair, he partner with Florida Gulf Coast eventually enroll a total of 150 ter earning his degree, Kunz had “I’m very happy here, I don’t goes out of his way to make sure University to offer several bach- students. an interview with Bank Atlantic’s plan on changing schools,” Kunz that all the students understand elor’s degrees. Miami-Dade FIU’s dean of nursing, Divana accounting branch. While look- declared. With that being said, the assignments,” Cabeza said. Community College was grant- Grossman agrees that there is ed approval to offer four-year a need (for nursing graduates.) degrees in secondary education She has said that she had 1,300 and exceptional student educa- qualified applicants for a meager tion in stand-alone programs. 70 available slots in the school’s To qualify for offering bach- standard nursing bachelor’s pro- elor’s degrees, proposals from gram in one recent application BCC alumni make it big community colleges must meet cycle. By Buzz Lamb criteria in three areas: they must April Cuthbertson, 43, is in Staff Writer demonstrate that demands for the Transition Nursing Program the degree programs are identi- on South Campus. “It’s a great It’s a little known fact, but a fied by local workforce devel- idea,” she said. Cuthbertson is student who was destined to be- opment boards, businesses and one prerequisite away from en- come a state governor walked the chambers of commerce; they tering the nursing program and BCC campus back in the sixties. A must substantiate the unmet said that she would hold off big-city mayor got his education need for graduates of the pro- on her plans to transfer to an- at BCC in the seventies as well. posed baccalaureate programs; other college if BCC offered a And there are two renowned au- they must demonstrate that they four-year degree. “I could go to thors who sat in BCC classrooms have the facilities and the aca- Miami-Dade but I like it better in addition to some well-known demic resources to deliver such at BCC, they care more about actors/entertainers who lugged programs. my education,” she said. textbooks across the campus. In a recent interview, Dr. Holcombe said any bachelor’s Over the years there have Holcombe said the college should programs offered at BCC will be been thousands of students that give serious consideration to of- college-wide and not confined to have graduated from BCC and fering four-year degrees. “I think just one campus. “We will be of- Photo courtesy of Marilynmanson.com gone on to a wide variety of ca- it is an extension of our mis- fering four-year programs only Marilyn Manson is one of the most notable figures in the world to have reers. Many students are content attended BCC during his college years. sion,” he said. “We have got to in areas where there is a need to settle into ordinary, yet fulfill- figure out what the critical needs not being met,” he said. “By the ing, employment. Others strive Paul McDonald joined the Fort Models, a talent agency that sup- are of the community and if they way, my understanding of this for a spot in the lime-light but Lauderdale police department plies the Los Angeles adult indus- are not being met... we are the is it isn’t necessary to change few achieve stardom. Here is a where he spent ten years. Since try with actresses to star in porno ones that have to fill the gap. If the name of your college just short list of some noteworthy leaving police work he has writ- films and photos. Since then she there are gaps at the baccalaure- because you have bachelor’s de- BCC graduates. ten two cop novels, a Viet Nam has appeared in nearly 200 films. ate level, obviously we can’t fill grees,” he said. “I’m not going Parris Glendening was a 1962 era military novel, a true-crime Probably the most recogniz- that need at the present time.” to recommend a name change at graduate who attended BCC book and two autobiographical able name of a BCC graduate Rodolphe Charles-Pierre, Jr., BCC. You can still be a commu- on a financial aid scholarship. accounts of his military experi- is Brian Hugh Warner who was 19, a Music Performance ma- nity college and still offer bac- Additional financial aid later on ences and his law enforcement born in Canton, Ohio and gradu- jor on South Campus said that calaureate degrees.” Holcombe allowed him to attend Florida career. McDonald was a 1975 ated from Glen Oak High School. it won’t affect him because he said that the community relies State University where he re- graduate of BCC. After high school graduation will graduate at the end of the on BCC too much. “I don’t want ceived a bachelor’s degree in Rita Mae Brown was born Warner moved to Fort Lauderdale summer and plans to transfer to see us become less of a com- 1964, a master’s degree in 1965 in Hanover, Pa. but grew up in with his family. While living to FSU, FIU or FAU after he munity college,” he said. and a Ph.D. in 1967 becoming the Florida. She was a 1966 BCC in Fort Lauderdale, he studied gets his associates degree from Holcombe said that all of the youngest student in FSU history graduate who transferred to the journalism and theater at BCC BCC. “I think they would have information that will be pre- to receive a doctorate in political University of Florida but was and became assistant entertain- to come up with a lot more areas sented to the Board in May will science. After graduation he be- expelled for her participation ment editor of The Observer but it would be nice for the stu- be supported by documentation. gan a 27 year career as a profes- in a civil rights rally. She later Newspaper. dents,” he said. “Not just what I think or what sor at the University of Maryland. moved to New York where she Warner, a professional musi- Holcombe said there are two the staff thinks,” he said. In 1994 he was elected governor attended New York University cian, is better known by his stage fields that come up which he Holcombe said Dr. Ken Ross of Maryland and was re-elected and received a degree in English. name Marilyn Manson which was will explore: One of these is and his staff are working on this in 1998 for a second term. Brown is the bestselling author formed by the names Marilyn the field of education and the along with Dr. Ted Wright. “If In 1987 James Naugle (BCC of a number of books. One of Monroe and Charles Manson. other is health-care careers. “We I recommend (to the Board) in Class of ’73) was given the her most notable relationships is Marilyn Manson is famous for are very, very short on teachers May that BCC pursues some- Distinguished Alumni Award that she is the former girlfriend of his outrageous stage persona and are currently not producing thing (a specific four-year pro- by the BCC Alumni & Friends tennis star Martina Navratilova. and image as the lead singer of a enough even though our uni- gram) then that’s what we will Association. Four years later Tory Lane (a stage name) was “shock rock” band that bears the versities are trying very hard to file on the first of June and we (1991) Naugle was elected Mayor born in Fort Lauderdale in 1982. same name. meet the need,” he said. will be successful (in getting ap- of the City of Fort Lauderdale and She began training in classi- More recently the Class of The Miami-Herald reported proval from the State),” he said. is now in his sixth term. Naugle is cal ballet at the age of six. After 2002 had in its midst Scott James on Feb. 21, 2007 that Miami- Change is on the horizon and the longest serving Mayor in the high school she attended BCC Meyer who is a stand-up co- Dade College (they dropped BCC is poised to be on the cut- history of Fort Lauderdale. After and graduated with an Associates median/entertainer. Meyer has “community” from their name) ting edge of one of the newest his stint at BCC he transferred to Degree in Business. After col- worked in large venues open- won approval for its third four- concepts in higher education. It Florida Atlantic University where lege Lane took a job at Hooters ing for such performers as The year program – a bachelor’s of was aptly stated in the movie he received a B.A. in Business and also worked as a stripper in Everly Brothers and Engelbert science in nursing. According Field of Dreams… ” If you build Administration. some local clubs. While working Humperdink and he has toured to reporter Noah Bierman, the it, they will come.” The saga be- After completing military at Hooters she was approached nationally as the opening act for school plans to accept its first gins. service in Viet Nam, Cherokee by a representative of LA Direct “Weird Al” Yankovic. April 30, 2007 Notices The Observer 21

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Please e-mail [email protected] or call 954-201-8035 to make an appointment with one of the editors or the adviser. The Math tutoring for most cours- following positions are available: es. Call 954-655-7481. We also do on-line tutoring. Copy Editors Staff Writers Strong English and journalism majors are encouraged to Seeking writers to cover events and features concerning any or Corrections participate in the copy editing process of production. Fearless all BCC campuses. College-level writing ability is a must. Great In our March 19, 2007 issue, attitude and the ability to work on short notice a plus, but not opportunity to improve writing skills and meet new people. The Observer failed to credit required. Previous experience or professor’s recommendation David Cooper for the photo in a plus. the top-left corner of page 24 (“Campus Life in Focus”). All Design Editors other photos on that page were Fact Checker Graphic design students with experience in Adobe Photoshop taken by W. Earle Simpson. Diligent editor for story accuracy is needed to assist copy edi- and Adobe InDesign are wanted to assist in the layout and de- tors with the fact checking of stories. Stories that have lots of sign of the paper. Must be creative and able to work on dead- In our April 16, 2007 issue, quotes and information need just as much effort to check the line. Prior professional experience not required, but is a plus. The Observer switched the pho- validity of the facts in the story. Ability to work on short notice Applicants must bring samples of their work to The Observer. tos of presidential candidates a plus, but not required. Previous experience or professor’s rec- Ana “Cha” Guzmán and Debbie ommendation a plus. Sydow on page 14. Staff Artist/ Political cartoonist ForPhotogr those interested in sports,aphers features, or event photography. Those with artistic talent and are interested in drawing are Advertise Staff photographers should have their own camera, digital encouraged to submit a sample of their work to The Observer. here! preferred, but not required. Digital submissions are preferred, but not required. The Observer is a bi-weekly publication that reaches an audience of over 60,000 students of diverse age groups JOIN THE OBSERVER STAFF TODAY AND MAKE and ethnic backgrounds. This student publication A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COLLEGE COMMUNITY! offers attractive rates and siz- E-mail us at [email protected] es for ads. Call 954-201-8035 for details. 22 The Observer Features April 30, 2007 Alpha Delta Rho hosts fundraiser for cancer awareness By Lisette Morales Cancer Society. Contributing Writer “It is always great to give back to others that are in need, The years of the 60’s, 70’s, because one day we might need and 80’s were the times of or want the same in return,” said Bake Sales from different orga- 18-year-old Martha Morales, a nizations that supported many BCC student. causes in the community. Phi During this event there were Theta Kappa’s Alpha Delta Rho many volunteer’s that helped chapter held a bake sale and out tremendously and made it cancer awareness at Michael’s a successful project for PTK. Art Store on Saturday, Mar. 24. This event was a great func- The Bake Sale was for the tion that occurred, with the purpose to raise funds for support of teamwork. It in- PTK. The Cancer Awareness volved dedication and motiva- fundraiser would donate the tion from the members of PTK. money to the American Cancer These two events in one day Society. were successful, the Bake Sale “This event was a great turn earned $131.50 and the Cancer out for [PTK] and the commu- Awareness earned $213. nity,” said Agustin Solana. There are many events held There were all types of good- throughout BCC that are thriv- Photo courtesy of Lisette Morales ies such as: brownies, cupcakes ing and meaningful to the peo- (Left to right) Alpha Delta Rho members Christina ???, Andres Lopez, Lisette Morales, Martha Morales, and and hotdogs for lunch. Within ple of the community, which Melinda ??? host a bake sale at Michael’s Art Store to raise money for cancer awareness. the selling of goods, the people for one was the Bake Sale and in the community were very Cancer Awareness event. Debate Forum involving will be held on Apr. 16 and a cancer of telling their personal generous to support and do- As forth, the next event’s Environmental Health ver- the event on cancer patients of stories, which will be held on nate to PTK and The American coming up for PTK are the sus World’s Economy, which Prostate, Leukemia, and Lung Apr. 17–19.

Graduation exercises move to a new facility Bank Atlantic Center to host the ceremony By Buzz Lamb will be a stage set up on the east name printed in the program plus tax. or friends. All bags and purses Staff Writer side of the building. Family and are still eligible to participate At 8:30 a.m. there will be an will be searched and no flowers, friends of the graduating class in the ceremony by requesting orientation for the graduates at noisemakers, gifts, balloons, As we evolved from our will be seated in a horseshoe and submitting a “candidate for the Bank Atlantic Center and weapons or outside food or childhood to our teenage years fashion around the arena’s main graduation” form at your cam- the doors to the facility will drink will be allowed in the to adulthood we invariably grew floor to provide the best view- pus Counseling/Advisement of- open to parents and guests at 9 arena. Directions can be found both in height and stature. The ing capabilities. Guests will not fice. Participants are required a.m. As mentioned before, no online at . The ness. It becomes prominent and so those wanting pictures of the gown which is available at all are asked to leave items such as ceremony will begin promptly at increases to a point where it out- graduates receiving their diplo- campus bookstores for $34.99 purses or backpacks with family 10 a.m. grows its building. It can happen mas should bring cameras with to a college as well and BCC is a telephoto lens. no exception. Last year the First Baptist Willie Alexander in the Church charged the college Registrar’s office is in charge of about $6,000 and this year the the May 8, 2007 graduation ex- Bank Atlantic Center will run a ercise scheduled to be held at the little over $30,000. “Most of the Bank Atlantic Center in Sunrise. other facilities we looked at were “We had 610 students graduate about the same price,” Alexander last year and we held the cere- said. The actual rental is only mony at the First Baptist Church $12,500 but the “extras” which downtown on Broward Blvd.,” include ushers, bag checkers, he said. Alexander said that the police, fire rescue, housekeep- facility was no longer available ing, security and even a nurse to the college so his committee will be provided by the Center went on a search to find a venue for an additional $17,757.77. that could accommodate over Music for the event will be 6,000 people. coordinated by the BCC Visual Alexander said that they and Performing Arts Department looked at the Convention Center, under the direction of Loretta the Performing Arts Center and Scherperel. According to the Seminole Hard Rock as well Scherperel, the Seahawk Singers, as the Bank Atlantic Center. directed by Sarah Weiner- Alexander said the college needs Jamison, will be presenting a a facility that will be able to ac- mini-concert 15 minutes prior to cept the increase in attendance the beginning of the ceremony. that he anticipates in future “They will also lead the gather- years. “There is no limit on who ing in singing the college alma can attend, we don’t use tickets. mater (anthem),” she said. “The This place has plenty of room procession and recession will be for us to grow.” the traditional pomp and circum- According to Alexander, in stance played on the piano by a sea of bright blue robes the Susan Dodd who is a member of graduates will be assembled on our department,” she added. the main floor of the arena along Students who missed the Apr. with faculty members and there 24 deadline for having their April 30, 2007 Entertainment The Observer 23 Old school Turtles, new school graphics By Martha Morales modern technology. Contributing Writer This movie will captivate moviegoers heart by imple- Some time has elapsed since menting the conflict between we saw four green hard shelled the brother’s distanced ap- turtles on the big screen, but proach to each other; and their they have come back stronger separation to how they dealt with more vitality; this time with the internal turmoil that for a new film called TMNT. each of them was carrying; and With a new story line loaded made them weaker not just as with action and animation, will individuals but also as a whole moviegoers of all ages feel- piece of pizza; the food of pref- ing the crave to see the ninja erence for Michelangelo. The turtles come back to where same conflict would later turn they started–with the union of them into what would seem as the four brothers: Leonardo, utter strangers in the reality of Photo by Warner Bros. Michelangelo, Donatello, and living or rather co-existing in a The classic turtles return in their latest computer-generated adventure movie. Raphael. major metropolitan city. This film has impacted audi- With this said, the main con- four brothers put together. bases to have a fulfilling day, packed with action, humor, and ences worldwide through the flict that arises is the fact that The main problem that our and so can watching a motion a great emotional roller coaster new form of animation as one this production goes beyond heroes face is dealt from with- picture that has the quality to that will keep you guessing to can look back at the 90’s films the villains themselves, even in, and it touches the bases of thrill you from beginning to the very end of what past char- that made cartoons come to though it seems that the bad unity and how the power of end. acters may return to give the real life; now real life creatures guys of this film are stronger union overcomes all obstacles. Take a look at the new digi- turtles, an awakening of a chal- come to the digitalized age of and more developed than the Entertainment is one of the talized TMNT movie that is lenge. The spectacle of300 By Raul Guizzo Some of the historical inac- Contributing Writer curacies in this film are obvious, while others are much more sub- 300—the immensely-popu- tle. Of course, the chained 9-foot lar, blood-soaked, adrenaline- behemoth that the Immortals un- pumped film based on the leg- leash on the Spartans and the gro- endary battle between a small tesque executioner with blades Spartan force fending off the for arms is both obvious exag- never-ending resources of a vast gerations and fabrications. But, Persian army—is a beautiful what about how each side is por- film cinematographically and an trayed? The line between good exciting film emotionally, with and evil is very clearly drawn. several moments of lightly-dark Sparta is good. Persia is evil. The humor to relieve the electrifying Persian army is a hell-bent band tension of witnessing death and of half-mutant creatures, led at destruction at such an up-close the helm by a king who fancies and grand scale. At the end of the himself a god, while the Spartans film, after the blood has cooled, are brave family-men defending one may wonder: how much of an their homeland despite objections honest portrayal was that? It may from their government and divine Photo by Warner Bros. have been based on a true event, guides. History is usually written The real warriors of Sparta were actually dressed more appropriately for battle. but those who stay seated for the by the winners, but this account entirety of the credits were met seems to be a romantic legend to different from the goal of Persia were portrayed, they were well tain that golden gleam of righ- with a final line similar to what a glorify the nation of Sparta. for more land and power. in the background and not men- teousness. Warner Bros. spokesman has said It is important to keep in mind 300 indeed does successfully tioned. With this knowledge, the Frank Miller’s graphic novel concerning the film, “The film that almost every major nation in expose the ugly side of conquest, scene where King Leonidas kicks 300 is a work of fiction loosely 300 is a work of fiction inspired history was created on a founda- but it gives an overly simplis- the Persian messenger into the based on historical events. It by the Frank Miller graphic novel tion of conquest and destruction. tic portrayal of each side of the abyss for threatening the enslave- is important to remember this. and loosely based on a historical There was the Roman Empire battle. Armies never consist of ment of Sparta seems cruel and Besides removing half of the event. The studio developed this that conquered a great chunk of bands of evil mutants. They are hypocritical. The honorable king normal Spartan armor (they film purely as a fictional work Europe; there were the Spanish made of loyal soldiers fighting is not against slavery itself, just wore more than a helmet, leather with the sole purpose of enter- conquistadors who rampaged for what their leaders believe to the slavery of his own people, Speedo, and a shield), there were taining audiences; it is not meant through South America filled with be right. The Persian side was which he apparently believes is many other instances where he to disparage an ethnicity or cul- contempt towards the ‘savage’ filled with family men just like superior to other cultures—an maxes out his creative license. ture or make any sort of political natives, driven by greed for their the Spartans. Although the na- extreme nationalism, which of- Through omission and demoni- statement.” natural resources of gold and to- tion of Sparta is portrayed in a ten leads to disrespect towards zation, he creates an artificial Some may call this unimport- bacco; later, the British defeated blindingly glorious light, they other peoples and their cultures. historical account where one ant, citing the fact that it is “just the Spanish Armada and for a few were far from saints and were a This film conveniently leaves side is unbelievably good and a movie.” But, filmmakers have hundred years the sun never set source of much oppression and out any mention of the existence the other side is incredibly evil. become modern-day historians. on the British Empire; even this cruelty. Searching through the of Spartan slavery or their own One should be wary of any film Our historical consciousness, very country, the United States of Encyclopedia Britannica, one conquest of Messenia a few hun- that glorifies violence in a way for better or worse, is shaped by America, owes its freedom and can come across the term helot, dred years prior. The Messenian that ignores the human tragedy of the film and television products nationalism to bloody feuds with which is “a state-owned serf of people, along with the original war. Decapitations elicit cheers churned out by Hollywood. Any the redcoats and the near-com- the ancient Spartans … state inhabitants of Laconia (the area of excitement, instead of the som- movie based on an actual event plete domination and subjugation slaves, bound to the soil and as- around the Spartan capital,) were ber acceptance of the brutality of is going to shape the public’s of the Native American people signed to individual Spartans to victims to the domination of the war achieved in more historically perception of that event. With who happened to be living on the till their holdings … The ephors highly militaristic Spartan nation. accurate films, such as “Saving that in mind, historical accuracy land that our forefathers consid- (Spartan magistrates) of each This nation held its slaves under Private Ryan” and “Schindler’s does matter when dealing with ered rightfully theirs. Manifest year on entering office declared the strictest control: “It was the List.” The film300 is spectacle at true-life events. This disclaimer Destiny is merely a romanticized war on the helots so that they responsibility of the Spartan se- its finest, riding high on a wave merely serves to protect Warner way to cloud the arrogant sense of might be murdered at any time cret police, the Krypteia, to patrol of emotion and aesthetic plea- Bros. from any legal hassle and entitlement that some of the early without violating religious scru- the Laconian countryside and put sure, leaving truth and objectiv- removes any historical responsi- leaders of the United States felt. ples.” Suddenly, the Spartan code to death any supposedly danger- ity washed up on the shores of bility for the director, creator, and It’s nothing more than old-fash- of honor and human dignity does ous helots.” In light of all these the American public’s historical anyone involved with the film. ioned, brutal conquest—not so not seem so solid. If any slaves examples, Sparta does not main- consciousness. 24 The Observer Entertainment April 30, 2007 Summer blockbuster line-up By Martin Bater starting to see a trend here. The 400 episodes, but America’s most PC3 comes out on May 25, so Sports Editor movie asks “what are the odds beloved yellow family is finally clearly they didn’t want to com- of getting even?” and it involves on the big screen. The movie’s pete with Spider-Man head to Spider-Man 3 high stakes poker. Sounds like you premise is that Homer must save head in the box office. There are Without question the most an- could put a sexy female European the world from a catastrophe he talks already of a fourth movie ticipated movie of the year, which government agent and you are all himself created, that’s almost as coming out next year. comes out on May 4. I just wish set for a good action movie. much of a certainty to happen as This saga is good, just don’t they would stop bombarding ev- The bottom line is no matter death and taxes are. make the mistake “Rocky” did ery show I watch on TV with a how good or bad the movie is, the This movie has so much hype and let the series end on a high different trailer every week, just star-studded lineup will pay for it- and expectations that it will in- note, don’t drag it out. let me watch the movie already. self at the box office on June 8. evitably be a letdown no matter With Mary Jane (Kirsten what, but as a longtime fan of the Dunst) by his side, Spider Man Shrek the Third series, I just hope that being on (Tobey Maguire) will now have Shrek (voice of Mike Myers), the big screen and out of reach for to face off against his best friend, Fiona (Cameron Diaz) and the FCC gives the writers more who is trying to avenge his dad’s Donkey (Eddie Murphy) are back freedom and the movie can make death, and deal with the emer- in this hilarious movie that comes up for the lackluster episodes gence of a dark side in him that out on May 18. This time, Shrek they have been delivering lately could consume him and every- is set to become the new king of on TV. The movie comes out on thing he loves. Cool new black Far Far Away, but of course noth- July 27. outfit for Spider-Man. It seems ing comes easy for the big, green that on the dark side you can ogre. Pirates of the Caribbean 3 struggle, but at least you struggle Fan favorite Puss in Boots Johnny Depp comes back as looking cool. (Antonio Banderas) is also back. the sexually ambiguous and hi- Meanwhile, Justin Timberlake larious Captain Jack Sparrow in Ocean’s Thirteen and John Krasinski, Jim from the third installment of this popu- Danny Ocean (George “The Office” lend their voices lar saga. Clooney) and the rest of the star as well for the first time. This is This time, Will (Orlando studded gang (which includes the kind of movie both kids and Bloom) and Elizabeth (Keira Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy adults will enjoy and a guaranteed Knightley) go on to the “world’s Garcia, and Al Pacino as the mark) blockbuster. end” to free Jack from Davy Jones are back once again in yet anoth- trap. Captain Barbosa (Geoffrey er third installment of a movie. Simpsons: The Movie Rush) comes along with them as Photos by Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., 20th Century Fox, Dreamworks, and Disney I don’t know about you but I’m It’s been almost 20 years and well. Promos from some of the many new blockbusters coming this summer. April 30, 2007 Opinion The Observer 25

Student Abroad: Professor procrastination? Mexico’s Yucatan By Jessica McCorkle fessors. In one week I have had week! The exhaustion I have felt, BCC Student three tests, one small project, a 2 I can not blame solely on my pro- Peninsula page paper, a debate and speech. fessors. I will admit I have been When will it end? Why is it That’s just in ONE bitten by the procrastination mon- that teachers decide that the end ster several times, but I just can’t By Cami Carr able.” The trip now costs $1,950 of the year is the perfect time for help but think that some of my Layout Editor not including the tuition you pay 20 page projects, and 20-minute teachers waited to the last minute for the six credits that are earned speeches, along with fi- to give some of these as- What could be better than go- in both Spanish and Behavioral nal exams? Are we, the signments. ing to sunny Mexico on vacation Sciences. students, procrastina- With the prospect for three weeks and yet earning With a trip history of 15 years tors, or are the educa- of finals quickly - ap six credits toward your degree? to the same locale (this year tors? proaching, finishing Well not quite a vacation, but the makes 16) under his belt, he’s Rushing to meet the all of these assign- next best thing: an Anthropology confident that the experience of mandatory number of ments is becoming study abroad program to all involved will be enlighten- assignments and harder and harder Mexico’s timeless Yucatan pening, fun and truly an escape from deadlines has been to do. Have our pro- insula. Chock full of archeologi- the everyday dull that awaits you the norm for students fessors slacked off cal gold such as the oldest Mayan in an air conditioned classroom. across America. Most some how? Have they temples, villages hardly touched The trip is usually limited to 20 students, myself forgotten that per- by the passing of modernization, students, though this year only 16 included, find it haps, they are one miles high waterfalls and an air are stepping up to the challenge. hard to start proj- of many classes? of tradition; the Yucatan is not Spanish Professor Claudia ects/homework How can teachers only a beautiful vacation spot, Sahagun also comes along on the until (sometimes) expect students but a destination full of educa- trip to provide her Spanish flare the hour before it to complete all of tional merit and adventure. to make it a dual subject romp to is due. This un- these assignments, With destinations like the city the exotic peninsula. According fortunate habit has and study for the of Merida, which has been called to students who have gone on been the downfall not so easy finals? “the Rome of Mexico,” you can this trip in years past say that she to many students for Time has somehow rest assured that this is no trip just adds a “comfortable mothering decades. But has this snuck up on profes- into the wilderness, but also one feel” to the information and hu- ugly habit somehow sors, and the number filled with style. The program mor based repertoire of Tromans’ contaminated the same of assignments given are for Session 2, for the Spring of commentary. people who are chosen to not equal to the number on 2007 sets out on May 10 from As an accomplished fixture instruct us [the students]? the syllabus. Sometimes Miami International Airport di- in the Spanish department on I am a witness to the I think our teachers forget rect to Merida, with students and central, her bright smile and pas- procrastination of pro- that we have lives too. professors coming back home on sion for her teaching makes all May 31. her students want to come back The program is the brain- for more. Sahagun said, “They child of Professor Mark Tromans all love the trip, even when you Associate Dean of the Behavioral get dusty and sunburned. Doesn’t Sciences department on Central everyone love a sense of adven- Stop whining and go campus, whose passion for culture? There’s much more than ture and travel led him to create just visiting ruins, like clubs and an original yet affordable trip for dancing at night…but you won’t students to wander out into the see me there. They never see me educate yourself! VOTE! vast world, “The problem was going out. I like to sleep!” Her By Angela Osborne about the war in Iraq, abortion, then only 64 percent of the coun- that people would come into my cheery outlook on the trip really Contributing Writer social security, taxes, or health try eligible to vote did. Those who class and tell the students about gets you revved up to set out on insurance? vote, get their voices heard. Ever these great big trips to Spain and the experience with all cylinders The presidential election is Every candidate will have their wonder why some laws favor the other huge locations and when booming. in November of 2008. Why are own stance on the issues and it is elderly? Seniors as a group tend they would leave, my students For each of the three weeks we already flooded with candi- important that voters know where to vote more than any other age would look at me and say ‘Yah, of the trip, I will be recording dates a year and a half before the they stand. So be informed, and bracket, so once elected, politi- like we can afford that’. So I my experiences and those of my election? It just doesn’t seem to then you won’t be spoon fed cians help pass laws that those thought of somewhere I loved 15 fellow trip-mates to give you make sense, the majority of them what other’s think, you’ll have who voted for want. that was affordable and my first an inside look at a student’s per- are going to fizzle out and waste your own opinion and it won’t be So here is the deal. Get in- thought was the Yucatan: Merida, spective of a truly exciting study millions of dollars campaigning based on what color the text in formed, and then once you are Saint Cristobal and Palenque.” abroad experience. What can be and they won’t even make it to the TV commercial was. That’s informed, vote. If you aren’t His ultimate goal was to make expected is most definitely the un- the primaries. what those commercials are there registered, register! At any pub- it reasonably affordable for those expected and the truly surprising. There are already 28 possible for, to tell you how you should lic library they have the forms, it who aimed to see a different Things that I look forward to the new presidents. But which one think, and they spend millions of isn’t that hard, and it does make piece of the world without taking most is climbing Mayan temples will it be? We already know the dollars to do so. a difference. It may not seem like a huge deceit of their purses/wal- (100’s of steps to the top!), swim- front runners, even before the In the 2004 presidential elec- it, based on the past but it really lets along with it. “At first the ming in waterfalls, interacting bitter campaigning starts. Now tion, they had the lowest voter does. Think about it this way, trip started out at about $899 and with natives of the Yucatan and that that’s over with, let’s focus turnout since 1898. if you didn’t vote, you have no then we felt it was too short, we embarking on another adventure on the issues, the real issues, dis- It’s sad to think that there are right to complain about the gov- were doing things we do now in a that I know will be a singular ex- regard who is married to whom, people who would love to vote in ernment, because you weren’t whole week in a half in only three perience for not only myself, but and how many times they have an election yet aren’t able to and part of the process. or four days. It had to grow, but all involved. Look out Mexico, been married, or what brand of it had to stay financially reason- here we come. garbage bags they use. It is all ridiculous. But one thing is for sure, we will have something new. No incumbents are running for election. The current president is out, Hey YOU! and the vice president isn’t go- Got something to say? ing to run, that hasn’t happened since 1952. So who has the most Your opinion counts! experience? That’s a good ques- Got a gripe? Want to vent your frustration? Maybe you have some tion but it’s up to you to decide. words of praise or accolades for a fellow student or event. Perhaps you just Is being the mayor of one of want to scream at our editors? No problem! the largest cities in the country equivalent to being a senator, or We want to hear from you. If you have an opinion and want others to first lady? know, write us and let us know what the deal is. If you want to talk to our This is the time for you to get editors, write a letter and we’ll publish it. Just don’t forget to include your Photo courtesy of yucatantoday.com informed. Find out what the is- name and phone number, and sign your letter. Read our policy (below) for Pictured above is a photo of the monument at the end of Paseo sues are going to be, and learn more details. Montejo in Merida, Mexico. about them. How do you feel 26 The Observer Opinion April 30, 2007

BCC Students respond The Virginia Tech Shooting Could it have been prevented? By Melissa Jean Baptiste tic dispute at first, but a person beginning. They did not think of Tragedy raises Contributing Writer is innocent before proven guilty. all the scenarios that could have The school board should have played out in the incident. They According to the Sun- cancelled all classes immediate- didn’t think of another gunman Sentinel, a gunman opened fire ly until they got all the facts of or the University could be in questions in a Virginia Tech dorm killing the incident in the dorms, instead danger. They came up with one By Sahara Camacho massacre? There are many ques- two people and then, two hours of class optional for students and scenario which was a domestic Contributing Writer tions that will never be answered later, in a classroom across cam- faculty. violence and that was the cause because this young man is dead pus Monday, Apr. 16, killing at The school board and police of the shooting. They saw the vic- Last Apr. 16, all over the and consequently his reasons for least 32 people in the deadliest had a two hour lapse before the tim’s boyfriend leaving the room United States people were horri- the “why” will be buried with shooting rampage in U.S. histo- second shooting to lock down or so they immediately thought it fied and shocked with a tragedy him. ry. The gunman committed sui- evacuate the University as cau- was him without evidence. That of monumental proportions. Two Could this tragedy have been cide, bringing the total death toll tious measures were taken of the was the end of it, until the second shootings occurred on the cam- avoided? According to the news to 33 people. situation. The only thing they did shooting. pus of the University of Virginia ,the first shooting started early in I believe the horrible massacre was put the dorm on lockdown. I I just hope if a situation like Tech., ending with a total of 33 the morning and two hours passed could have been prevented by the doubt the gunman would come this ever happens again, then deaths among students, professors before the second shooting began. first shooting. Two people were around a second time while po- other schools think of Virginia and the killer himself. Everybody If there was a period of two hours found dead in the dorm room. lice and security were around. Tech as a learning experience around the world is amazed at why didn’t the police do a lock- Wouldn’t that tell the board of The problem I had with the and think about emergency plans this college massacre. Nobody down on campus until the first Virginia Tech to cancel classes? police and school board is that to avoid another massacre such could have imagined that college shooting was clarified? Maybe if Police believed it was a domes- they didn’t think through in the as Virginia Tech. students could be in danger and this would have happened, there that something this horrific could would be fewer victims. happen to them while working It is very sad how people have toward an education to become the power in deciding whether or citizens of the future. not take the life of others. The “Schools Without God and This college massacre brings United States needs to improve up many questions, some of their laws on the selling of guns to which may never be answered. its citizens. In the state of Virginia Prayer = Chaos” It becomes an example for all the people can buy one gun each By Rosemarie Cole person makes. place of higher learning that situa- universities around the country, month. How can this be possible? Contributing Writer Let us address the issue of the tion may or may not arise. What is which should create plans to deal It means that in one year a person separation of church and state. wrong with that? As for the time, with extreme situations in case could buy a total of 12 guns with This Virginia Tech tragedy is How can there be one without the that is the decision for our Creator something similar happens on no restrictions and no investiga- sad and disturbing. My deepest other? The church is a strong and and only He alone can allow time their campus. It may be uncer- tion of your records. This doesn’t sympathy goes out to those who powerful force to reckon with, to be or not. tain how people would react in a include buying more guns in the have lost loved ones. Whatever’s we are everywhere: in homes, He is the only authority to let situation similar to this one, but if gun fairs. People could buy guns the cause to outrage anyone to per- schools, banks, private sector jobs the sun rise in the East on a given there is a plan it might help both on the black market, but if there form such an act of violence in a and in the government. morning. students and staff to stay calm were restrictions on the policies school, only adds to the fact that: It is time to take a stand and Question is: What are we going and safe. Administration staff, and waiting periods, less people prayer the Ten Commandments or reinstate devotions and prayer to do with the time that we have faculty and students should also could have easy access to them. the reference of God the Creator in schools. We want godly teach- now? Tomorrow is not promise to need to take care of themselves, The truth is that this mas- is excluded. People suffer for the ers, counselors and educators to anyone. they should always be aware of sacre that happened in Virginia lack of knowledge of Him. set good example and influence We are not going to put up with the people that are around them, will never be forgotten, neither Without God and the influence our children. hypocrisy any longer. I speak on observe how people act and no- by the citizens, relatives of the of the Holy Spirit the hearts of People with good morals have behalf of all concerned parents, tice if something may look suspi- victims and the University itself. man can be cold and wicked. God strong convictions. especially those who fear God. cious to report it to the security What has to be done now is to im- is love. He is the defender of the Six or seven hours a day our We could call for a day of prayer entities. There can be safety plans prove the security in all colleges poor, rejected and fatherless. He is children are placed in what can be after a tragedy or comfort a griev- but overall, the community is the and teach students and faculty just. called a war zone. ing family member telling them one who can help “patrol” and how to react in a case like this. If children are exposed to God’s In reference to a speech that I that their loved ones are in heaven. keep an eye out for suspicious Events like these are what make laws in school, they will reverence heard on television today: However, the very existence of the behaviors. What could be in the Americans stop thinking and be- number six commandment: THOU Quote: “The children were God to whom these are addressed mind of a young student who de- lieving in themselves and become SHALL NOT KILL. in the wrong place at the wrong is denied or ridiculed. Something cides to end with the life of 32 solitary with what is happening The consequences of sin would time”. is wrong with that. victims? What was his reason? around them. If everyone gets to- be a factor in the decisions that an I strongly disagree, with that We are calling for a change in What could have made him so gether hopefully a difference can out of control, angry or revengeful statement; if children were in a the school system. angry that made him commit this be done.

Are gun laws really the problem? By Alberto K. Sanchez important factor, time period. but still the second amendment than a dozen wounded, marked 9mm Glock. The 9mm was pur- Contributing Writer At the time of the adoption of gives any average person the right the deadliest mass shooting in chased a month earlier at Roanoke the constitution, many feared that to buy a weapon. U.S. history. This very unfortunate Firearms, the owner of the store “A well Regulated Militia, be- a powerful central government How does government control event occurred at the Virginia Tech told CNN on Tuesday Apr. 17, ing necessary to the security of a could become tyrant. The inten- the use of the weapons sold? campus at Blacksburg, Virginia. 2007. free state, the right of the people tion of these initial amendments It’s very simple, they don’t. The 2,600-acre campus seemed John Markell told CNN further to keep and bear arms, shall not be was to avoid such tyranny, as it So, wouldn’t it be stupid to ask like a battlefield as law enforce- that Cho was very low-key when infringed.” was previously experienced by why horrible events such as: the ment officials rushed from the purchasing the gun. Cho paid On Sept. 25, 1789, the First the colonies at the hands of the University of Texas shooting in West Ambler Johnston co-ed dor- $571 for the 9mm firearm and was Congress of the United States British. 1966, the Columbine High School mitory—where the first shooting conducted a background check by proposed to the state legisla- The “freedoms” provided by shooting in 1999, and most re- occurred—to the Norris Hall en- state police. ture’s twelve amendments to the the Bill of Rights gave ease to the cently the Virginia Tech shooting, gineering building, which is about Many will argue that stricter Constitution. Articles 3 to 12 were people that feared persecution by among many others, have hap- a half-mile away, where the sec- gun control laws will not help to ratified, constituting the first 10 government due to religious con- pened? ond shooting took place. prevent these incidents from hap- amendments to the Constitution, coctions or political inclinations. If anyone can buy a gun, The gunman was identified pening, mainly because guns can thus becoming what we know The second amendment gave wouldn’t it be obvious that some as Cho Seung-Hui, a 23 year-old be purchased illegally. But isn’t now as the Bill of Rights. the “freedom” to bear arms, main- of these incidents are bound to senior English major at Virginia that the governments job? To The statement above can be ly because of the turbulent times. happen? Tech. A South Korea native, Cho tackle this very important issue found in those first 10 amend- Land owners were forced con- Why do people still protect this had lived in the U.S. for over 10 and take the necessary precautions ments to the constitution, as the stantly into battle with neighbor- amendment? years and was a legal resident. to stop what has become a regular second amendment to be exact. ing Indians and other European On Apr. 16, 2007, a shooting The two guns found on the fashion in our pop-culture. “The right of the people to keep troops. killing at least 33 people includ- scene used by Cho were, a .22- Or are we going to be forced to and bear arms,” carries with it an Those times have long passed, ing the gunman, and at least more caliber semi-automatic and a carry guns to feel safe? April 30, 2007 Opinion The Observer 27 My BCC experience By Greg Rosenberg follow it. With occasional visits Contributing Writer to Tenenbaum’s office, I’ve been on track and fortunely I haven’t A parting “thank you” In the Fall of 2005 I started taken any unnecessary classes. By Emily Moorhouse and programs, many of which I tor to change their stance on a my first semester at Broward With being on track with Staff Writer held positions in. These include heated issue, I discovered the Community College’s Central the course selection, and main- Honors, Phi Theta Kappa, Student influence average citizens can Campus. When I registered, I taining a 3.5 GPA, on Jan. 24 I As of May 8, I will have Government, The Observer have on public policy. Truly, it was oblivious to what I want- received my acceptance letter graduated BCC to further my Student Newspaper, P’an Ku would take me hours to list just ed to major in, let alone what from UF. academic career at the University Literary and Arts Magazine, how many aspects of my life have I wanted to do with my life. I currently have only four of Florida. However, my experi- Competitive Edge, SPADES, and been influenced during my time Shortly after the fall semester more classes to complete until ences at this institution will be Brain Bowl. Through these, I have at this institution. began, I quickly noticed that I I receive my A.A. Degree. In embedded in my every endeavor. been able to go on ten trips across While my experiences alone wasn’t the only freshman that Aug., after completing BCC I In the 20 months I spent at BCC, I the state and nation, including the certainly suffice, BCC has also was undecided. will be relocating to Gainesville, was afforded countless opportuni- destinations of Delaware, New awarded me $8,154 in scholar- During my first two semesters Florida to attend UF and focus ties and discovered a side of this York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. ships just for being involved in I took nine courses, few of them on Public Relations. school that, unfortunately, many In the crowded, competitive at- clubs and programs! In fact, these emphasized the importance of My overall experience while students are unaware of. mosphere of a university, I never scholarships average to about choosing a major. It wasn’t un- attending BCC wasn’t bad at During high school, I expe- would have had the chance to do $100 a week, (the amount I might til the winter term, when I was all. rienced the stigma some people all of that. earn working at least part-time), taking [ENC 2210] that I real- By picking 8 a.m. classes I have against community colleges. These opportunities have not so I never needed a formal job. ized I wanted to major in Public avoided the parking lot night- I was in honors and AP classes only given me the skills needed Instead, I was able to convenient- Relations. To make sure I was mare that students at Central among students with high aspi- for my major, journalism, such as ly “work” on campus planning on track for my new found ma- Campus dread. Frequent visits rations and minds set on going how to write articles and create and participating in activities that jor, I made an appointment with to the advisors office kept me straight to a university. However, magazines, but have equipped me allowed a vast amount of creativ- my academic advisor, Michael on track. And by deciding on a unlike my peers, I knew I was not with numerous other real world ity and flexibility. Tenenbaum. During the meeting major by my second semester, I ready to leave home and enter a skills such as event planning, net- While it took initiative to pur- we discussed the requirements was able to submit an applica- world of sudden independence. working, and developing profes- sue these opportunities, it was and the classes I would need to tion to the only school I wanted So, my high school advisor told sionalism. I now have a resume BCC that made them available take in order to be accepted to to transfer to, and consequently me about the honors program at along with a sense of competence to me. I have shared my experi- the University of Florida. After I got accepted by not only stay- BCC through which I could re- and confidence that take many ences not to highlight myself, the meeting, the path to my ma- ing on track but by taking some ceive 100% scholarship in ad- people years to acquire. but to express my eternal grati- jor was paved; I just needed to initiative. dition to Florida Bright Futures. Even in the simplest of ways, tude to this school for offering I knew that it was the perfect my experiences at BCC have me such a wide array of possi- choice for me and, just months af- changed me. For example, put- bilities. Though it was stressful ter graduating, I embarked on my ting together an environmental at times, there is nothing I have journey here. I had no idea that it magazine for South Campus, I be- accomplished that other students Not high on “Atmospheric” would be the most fulfilling two came so much more environmen- cannot. For me, walking the stage By Hitomi Kito ing our world; I’m quite aware years of my life. tally conscience. I was inspired to at graduation is not just the cel- BCC Student of the issue. I’m only address- Despite, initially, knowing no walk those few extra yards to a ebration of my associate’s degree: ing the fact that this magazine one else attending BCC, I was de- recycling bin and to take a stand rather, two years of priceless ex- What sort of joke is the new was poorly put together, and its termined to make the most of my when I see others litter. Being in periences and lasting friendships. BCC publication, Atmospheric? writing quality, while not poor, college experience, so I set out to Phi Theta Kappa, I discovered I have emerged a better, wiser For students who have yet addressed issues all-too-basic. work hard in my classes and be in- the beauty of volunteering my person facing a future of opened seen it, pick up a copy any- Was funding this a sound invest- volved in as many extracurricular time to help others. Traveling doors. There is not one ounce of where around South Campus. ment? activities as I could. Throughout with Student Government and me that regrets my decision to at- This “magazine” is suppose to Where is the real nitty gritty? the past two years, that is exactly Competitive Edge to the state tend this institution. I am one of be about the ways students can Where is the dirt on current leg- what I did! I joined several clubs capitol where I persuaded a sena- BCC’s proudest alum! be more involved and help the islation? Why rehash the same environment, yet all I can find is old, “new energy, old energy” the same old silly The More You arguments when this doesn’t Know, public service announce- bring any real useful information ment, Saturday morning cartoon to students? intermission, replayed, regur- It’s no secret that the publica- Don Imus getting the boot gitated information on why we tion was rushed. The design is By Loretta Felix a manipulative seed that is sown a mere rap video, were talking should use those magical blue basic at best. What was the cen- BCC Student by our forefathers/mothers and about our fore parents dying for bins that seem to solve all our terspread, some sort of coupon it begins to sprout from genera- our rights and freedom as a peo- problems. clip-out? OK, but a crossword The racist plague has to stop tion to generation and eventually ple, great men like Martin Luther Why does Phelps—an editor, puzzle? Seriously? Was there no here. I think firing Don Imus blossoms through our children. King and Malcolm X. No one even—describe the debate on better content at all? was the best decision CBS could Children only know what they has the right to take that away global warming as “over?” What Overall, I’m disappointed. make. At this point in his career see or hear on air, so if we make not Don Imus or anyone else. sort of journalist integrity is that? This could have been done a lot he should know the rules. Don hating one another acceptable We’ve come too far to turn back Who said that it’s over? Is this a better but it turned out to be me- Imus remarks were racial and what kind of world would this now. This is a racial conflict we consensus, and if so, who par- diocre. I just hoped to see more. chauvinistic toward those inno- be? We should teach our children will fight till we can’t fight any- ticipated? Right from the start, Give us a form letter, tell us cent girls. This behavior shows how to love one another no mat- more. I thank our black leaders we’re having subjective mate- who’s on the committees for how he views black women as a ter what texture of hair or skin for standing up for the women if rial inserted as if it were fact. As environmental affairs, just give whole. Its not just skin surfaces tones. God created us and loves they don’t who will? No weapon least quote a few groups! us something more than we can its skin deep and needs to be cut us all. Don Imus justifying his that is formed against us shall I’m in no way understating get out of a television special, out. It’s degrading and disre- remarks by using the rap videos prosper and every tongue that the importance of maintain- please. spectful to black woman. Hate is as his queue, this is deeper than rises against us shall fall.

Editorial Staff Section Managers Contributing Writers The Observer is a bi-weekly consolidated newspaper produced by students of Bro- Editor-in-Chief Central Chief Greg Rosenberg ward Community College. The editorial office is located at South Campus, Bldg. Grant Abraham Daniella Dorcelus Angela Osbourne 68-268, 7200 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33024. Bureau Offices are located Design Chief South Chief Alex Vaos Heather Dulman Alberto K. Sanchez at North Campus, 1000 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL, 33066, and Cen-

Layout Editor North Chief Sahara Camacho tral Campus, 3501 SW Davie Rd, Davie, FL. The Observer can also be reached by Cami Carr Anthony Perrucci Luis Cabrera phone at 954-201-8877 or e-mail at [email protected]. Copy Chief WHC Chief Jonah Tiguelo Sheena Fernandez Martha Morales

Photo Editor Sci-Tech Editor Lisette Morales Letters to the editor are encouraged. The writer’s name and phone number must be Johnny Louis William Breim included and the letter signed. Unsigned letters will not be accepted, but requests Jessica McCorkle Sports Editor for anonymity may be honored at the editor’s discretion. Letters must be typed and Martin Bater Melissa Jean Baptiste Staff Writers not exceed 300 words. The Observer upholds the right to edit for style or length or Entertainment Editor Rosemarie Cole Buzz Lamb Andres Lopez to reject publications of letters deemed inappropriate. Belal Jaber Broward Photographers Web Designer Omar Torrijos For information concerning editorial policy or advertising rates, call 954-201- W. Earle Simpson Chris Cutro Community College Emily Moorhouse 8035.

2006 FCCPA General Advisor Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessar- Excellence Award Jennifer Shapiro ily reflect those of BCC students, staff, faculty and administration. 28 The Observer Features April 30, 2007

Art photos by Johnny Louis/Campusjlnphotography.com WHC/Pines life Cam inpus focus

At the end of the day we are family, so lookout for one another. At the end of the day we are brothers, forgive one another. At the end of each day, we are sis- ters, aunts, cousins, mothers, fathers, sons, daugth- ers and human beings. The village is what you make it! So, at the end of the day, respect one another. Your time, your minute, the hour spent with your

family is precious. Share the life of the living and for the dying. The village is here, your family is here. We will embrace. We will cry your tears. But, we are here when time is going.

In memory of those who lost their lives in Virginia Tech.

By Johnny Louis Photo Editor Photos by W. Earl Simpson