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... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com December 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College PVCC Grounds Light Up for the Winter Solstice Ari Oxford, staff writer PVCCs annual Let There Be Light event is going to be at the V. Earl Dickinson Building on Dec. 13 from 6 - 9 p.m., and the rain date is Dec. 14. This mystical display features light-based art from more than 20 local and regional artists. On the night of the event, lights will surround Dickinson in a sprawling array of interactive pieces like Emmy Garcias Broadcast 266, where guests can share their personal oral history of Charlottesville, or Enchantment Under the Sea by Andrew Sherogan, Dom Morse, and Murray High School Students. Let There Be Light celebrates the approach of the winter solstice and the longest night of the year, according to the PVCC websites event page. Learn about PVCCs Newest Dean Page 7 This year, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts new Artmobile will debut in Charlottesville at Let There Be Light. The Artmobile will be exhibiting How Far Can Creativity Take You? VMFA Fellowship Artists, which explores the impact and history of VMFAs fellowship program. This exhibit will be open to the public at Let There Be Light, and it will be at PVCC on Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Let There Be Light is free and open to the public. Organizers encourage visitors to come as enlightened beings decorated in light and should bring flashlights. There will be free hot chocolate and apple cider. For more information on the artists and to see photos from previous years, please visit lettherebelightpvcc.com. In This Issue 2018 Display. Courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations SGA News -pg. 3 Event Previews Spring Classes -pgs. 8-11 Dogs -pgs. 12-13 Clubs -pgs. 14-17 Vigil -pg. 19 Veterans -pg. 22 Classifieds -pg. 24 -pgs. 4-5 DATES TO REMEMBER Crus Cider and Soularium * Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bolick Student Center De-stress Week: Aerobic Exercise * Dec. 4, noon to 1 p.m., Bolick Student Center De-stress with Makers Joy * Dec. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room De-stress Week: Hot Cocoa & Tea * Dec. 5, noon to 1 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Tax Aide Training * Dec. 7, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., M829 Annual Pottery Club Sale * Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Dickinson Commons Chorus Holiday Concert * Dec. 8, 3 - 4:30 p.m. Dickinson Main Stage Fall 2019 Final Exams Dec. 10 to Dec. 16 Let There Be Light * Dec. 13, 6 - 9 p.m., Dickinson Building Tax Aide Training * Dec. 14, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., M829 In-form: Shapes of Contemporary Improvisation with Big Blue Door * Jan. 10, 6-8 p.m., Dickinson room 202 Spring Semester 16-week classes start Jan. 13 Free Movie Friday, Harriet * Jan.17, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Larnell Starkey and the Spiritual Seven ^ Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Martin Luther King Day: no classes Jan. 21 *Free Event ^Student Vouchers Available Taking PVCCs Student Survey Jessica Adkins, online editor Every year, PVCC sends out a survey for students to complete. The survey is used to help faculty at PVCC figure out what they can do to better the services that PVCC offers to students. As an incentive for filling out the survey this year, each student who completes it will be entered in a raffle for a chance to win a three credit class. The survey can be accessed either through email or a students Canvas account. If a student is looking for the survey on their email, they should look for an email from Jolene Hamm or jhamm@pvcc.edu. If a student is trying to access the survey on their Canvas account, there is a banner that is shown at the top of the dashboard screen that allows students to fill out the survey on a separate screen. When students receive an email reminder to fill out the student survey, the email tells students how many others have already completed their survey as an encouragement for them to fill one out as well. It is also noted in the email that the survey is anonymous, so students will not have to worry about confidential information being released to others. The survey closes on Friday, Dec. 13, and the raffle winners will be announced the following week. The main idea of the survey is to get student feedback on services that are offered at PVCC such as the Writing Center, First Quadrant Math Center, Career Services, Student Services, and at the end of the survey, it asks questions pertaining to PVCCs Quality Enhancement Plan. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this semesters Student Survey, email Jolene Hamm at jhamm@pvcc.edu. Page 2 Student Government Association News De-Stress Week: Make Studying Fun Veronica Reyes, staff writer As the cold winter breeze shakes the trees at PVCC, students are preparing for final exams. Tensions are rising as students and faculty brace themselves for finals. However, to alleviate the stress and anxiety of final exams and the end of the grading period, the PVCC Student Government Association is hosting De-Stress Week: five days of fun activities to take their minds off tests. The PVCC SGA is hosting De-Stress week with many popular and new events to prepare students for finals. SGAs Director of Events Elizabeth Phan stated, We saw that students need to have a destress so that students could relax before their exams and perform better. We always get into the cycle of studying last minute for hours on end without a break. But taking a break can actually help more than you think! From Monday, Dec. 2 to Friday, Dec. 6, students will be able to participate in a variety of stress-relieving activities during their hours of studying. Monday will have arts and crafts and an encouragement wall. Phan said, We hope that plenty of students come out to fill the wall with colorful sticky notes of encouragement for each other. This will start the week off with inspiring words and motivation for the fun activities to follow. Exercise is often considered a good stress reliever and allows students to concentrate on something else besides lecture notes and PowerPoints. Tuesdays Aerobics Class will be taught in the Bolick Student Center from 12-1 p.m. On Wednesday, a yoga class will be held in the Retreat. President of SGA Jacob Laxton said, Students specifically requested yoga and DeStress exercises for the event. We worked hard to find a yoga instructor and gym teacher that could properly teach the classes. Laxton said, I personally can't wait for the De-Stress Exercises. They will definitely help me relieve some stress. On Thursday, students can warm-up for their study sessions at the hot chocolate, tea, and coffee bar. When students attend any of these events, they can participate in a raffle. Winners will be picked on Friday. Students are eligible to win a PVCC hoodie, a Bath & Body Works gift card, and spa certificates as prizes, stated Phan. After three weeks of planning and organization, SGA is ready for De-Stress week. Elizabeth Phan said, I found that the most enjoyable part of planning the event was seeing the look of excitement on peoples faces. Everyone was so tired or down because of assignments and exams but if de-stress week can encourage students to keep going, then I think I did a good job. Laxton stated, Elizabeth has done a great job preparing for DeStress Week. I would argue that the Director of Events is one of the most important positions within the SGA. Elizabeth has fully maximized her potential in this position. SGA is interested in PVCC students experience on campus, helping them to have their voice heard. If students are interested in this type of work, Laxton said, Yes, we are looking for students who want to make a difference within their school community. SGA isn't all about events -- we advocate for PVCC's students at the administrative level. We also host educational activities that benefit the student body. De-Stress week is just one way SGA helps students with their academic success and improve their experiences at PVCC. Students are welcome to all the free events happening at PVCC before finals. Phan encouraged students saying, Please take advantage of taking care of your mental health and take a break. As Director of Events, I hope De-stress week helps students recharge. Before the semester ends, students are invited to have fun and de-stress as they make their way to academic success. Page 3 Arrive Early for the Pottery Club Sale Matthew Minecci, staff writer Coming soon on Saturday, Dec. 7, the Dickinson building will be filled to the brim with people looking to buy the perfect Christmas gift or a beautiful pot. On that day, the Pottery Club is holding a massive sale where all the students from PVCCs Ceramics classes get together to sell their various projects. But be warned, the art doesnt last long, often getting sold out in mere hours. In fact, the sale only lasts from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., with works often selling out before they close down. People are often lining up at the door as early as 8 a.m, said Professor of Art Tom Clarkson, and organizer of the event. Most of the buyers are looking for smaller, more functional pieces, such as pots and vases, which are dishwasher safe, and that is the majority of what is being sold, with most of the price range being around $15. However, this varies from piece to piece, with some of them getting much more expensive. Of particular note are some of the more detailed sculptures, which can go up to $100. If you are thinking about making a big purchase, it is important to know that they only accept cash and checks. The sales themselves dont go to the students pockets though, the funds are used to hire a nationally known ceramics artist to come to PVCC and give a live demonstration for anyone who is interested. While the time of their arrival is currently being decided, if you wish to see them in action you can ask Clarkson when they will be at PVCC. The students normally make enough funds to hire one or two people to come and visit, so if you are interested in seeing a professional at work, make sure to catch their demonstration. Id definitely say its a lot of fun, but it does get crowded, said Clarkson. Grand Illumination Lights up the Holidays Samuel Huff, staff writer The holidays are a time for families to unify and for communities to come together. Some cities have traditions of pop-up ice-skating rinks, beautiful lights displays, and maybe even Santas on every corner. Here in Charlottesville, we have our own special tradition: The Grand Illumination, which takes place Dec. 6, 2019. Each year, people from every corner of Charlottesville and different walks of life convene on the downtown mall to share company, fun, and a few laughs. The center of attention is always the enormous evergreen perched in City Hall Plaza. With food and beverages available for purchase, locals can spend the night listening to holiday choirs and local bands perform holiday hits, browsing holiday goods from local vendors, and watching a visual light masterpiece light up the roof of the Sprint Pavilion. Its a great time for the community. People are able to really experience something magical and its impossible not to leave in the Christmas spirit, said Dawn McDaniel, an event volunteer. The kids would enjoy it anyway, but weve taken a few extra steps to make sure the whole family can have a great experience. Kids are sure to find something to make their night as much fun as Mom and Dads. From the holiday train in Gum Drop Square, to the inflatable obstacle course at the Reindeer Games, there is no shortage of fun to be had by all. With everything going on, it will be difficult to remember to make it to the main event. Around 7 p.m., everyone will gather around the Christmas tree and shortly after, begin the countdown to illuminate the over 2,000 LED lights draped around the tree. The fun continues after the tree lighting with a free screening of The Polar Express at the Sprint Pavilion. With all of these activities and more, the 2019 Grand Illumination is the Charlottesville event that will be on your mind until next Christmas. The activities begin at 4:30 p.m. and will contribute to a night full of love, fun, and surprises. After all, you never know what jolly bearded saint may drop by. Page 4 PVCC Chorus Sings Holiday Favorites Elizabeth Phan, staff writer On Dec 2, at 3 p.m. on the Main Stage of the V. Earl Dickinson Building, the PVCC Chorus will take the stage and sing holiday classics such as The First Noel and Kim Brickmans Hope Is Born Again. The event is free, and anyone can come to the concert along with friends, family, and loved ones. Melody Z. Day, the director of the chorus, said that she has had experience with singing in professional choruses for most of her life, including local choirs at The Oratorio Society of Virginia and the PVCC Chorus under the founding director, Jeff Suling. We are singing several choruses from Handel's Messiah, an arrangement of the spiritual Sister Mary Had-a But One Child and the beautiful, but challenging, What Sweeter Music by the living composer John Rutter, Day said. The chorus will also be singing Sleigh Ride, Baby, Its Cold Outside, and Carol of the Bells. This is my first semester as director, so I am learning what the choir is capable of-- they are definitely rising to the occasion! Day said. The chorus is made up of 50 members, some of which are from PVCCs one credit chorus course. The chorus has experience performing Broadway hits and patriotic music. New members are always invited to sing in the chorus or take the course. Anyone may be a member of the chorus-current students as well as community members. Unlike the Virginia Consort and The Oratorio Society of Virginia, this choir does not audition interested members, she said. One of the goals is to recruit recent graduates from the many fine high school choirs in the surrounding counties and the city of Charlottesville, said Day. According to Day, the previous directors of the choir were Suling and Scruggs who have featured masterworks such as John Rutters Requiem, and had an instrumental accompaniment and a professional soloist. For more information on attending the event, students can contact the PVCC Box Office at 434961-5376 or boxoffice@pvcc.edu. PVCC Chorus. Photo courtesy of Melody Day Page 5 SI Increases Student Success Samuel Huff, staff writer It is no secret that students transitioning from high school to college life have their fair share of challenges that they are destined to meet, but what if one of your first classes of your first semester was one of PVCCs most difficult courses? For students with a desire to enter the medical field, that challenge may become a reality. The Foundations of life class (NAS2) is somewhat of a crash course in basic biology and chemistry that, because of its broad range of topics, is considered one of PVCCs most difficult courses. Luckily, PVCC has found a solution to combat the low success and high drop rate of the class: Supplemental Instruction (SI). Supplemental Instruction is held separately from the class itself and is designed to prioritize group study. Led by students who have previously taken the course and excelled in it, SI provides students with an environment where they are free to work with their peers, address issues with their understanding of material, and even develop study strategies that help them better understand concepts in class. SI leaders are trained to facilitate the session and the activities involved may vary depending on class attendance. Attendance is not mandatory, although students who do attend sessions have a higher probability of being successful in the course. Because the sessions are usually a smaller group than the class itself, students have an opportunity to be more engaged and take a handson approach to their learning experience. SI leaders engage students in the material and encourage them to develop their skills in asking effective questions. For many students, SI is the difference between passing and failing. In a class that requires so much study-time and so much active participation, SI is a great way to ensure that students are making the most of their time and ensuring that they are providing themselves with the best chance at being successful. NAS2 is not the only class that offers SI, for the full list of classes that do as well as the times and locations of the sessions, students can check out the options at www.pvcc.edu/supplementalinstruction. The author of this article is currently a supplemental instructor for NAS2. Fall 2019 S.I. Availability by Class BIO 141 NAS 2 ECO 201 ECO 202 MTH 167 *2020 availability coming soon at www.pvcc.edu/supplemental-instruction Page 6 PVCC Welcomes New Dean Jessica Adkins, online editor In the midst of the hustle and bustle in the math wing of PVCCs Main Building lies the office of PVCCs new dean. Olugbemiga, pronounced Benggah, Adekunle is PVCCs new dean of business, mathematics, and technologies. While Adekunle enjoys being the dean, it was not something he had always wanted to do. Adekunle grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, where he attended local middle and high schools. After high school, he attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) on the Myer-Hall Scholarship which was a science program that offered support for minority students to obtain their PhD in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics. While at UMBC, he studied computer engineering. He had originally wanted to double major but changed to getting a minor in mathematics. After obtaining his bachelors degree from UMBC, Adekunle received his masters degree from the University of Dean Olugbemiga Adekunle shows off his Halloween Illinois in computer engineering. After costume. Photo courtesy of Bruce Robinson doing so, he decided that he wanted to teach and got his first part-time teaching job. While he may be busy at PVCC, he enjoys He taught at Parkland College in Illinois for a many activities in his free time. while, but later applied for a full-time position at When he lived in Harrisonburg, he was part of Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC) and an improvised comedy club. He plays basketball became a computer science instructor. After for fun. working at BRCC, Adekunle and his family He enjoys playing video games and watching moved to Holyoke, Massachusetts, where he was T.V. at home. Science fiction, fantasy, and comic the Dean of Science, Engineering, and books are his favorite books to read. Mathematics until he took his current position at He likes to listen to rap and hip-hop music and PVCC. has even written a few Christian rap and hip-hop His position at PVCC covers many different songs. class types from culinary arts to computer At the end of the interview, Adekunle said, I science. hope at this institution that students are shown Part of his job entails communicating and different opportunities that they could do working closely with faculty and staff in his regardless of background. division as well as helping make the class If any students or staff ever have any curriculum. questions, they can stop by his office in room I see the position as really helping the M268 or send him an email at students, Adekunle said. OAdekunle@pvcc.edu. Page 7 Ideas Made Real in Ceramics Class Matthew Minecci, staff writer In the Dickinson Building, on the first floor and at the end of the hall, there lies a large room. In it, students can let their creativity flow free by using the magic of clay. With the help of their teacher, Professor of Art Tom Clarkson, they have the ability to turn a simple block of clay into anything they imagine. Clarkson first took ceramics back in 1972, and ever since then he has been in love with it. He worked as a full time potter for a time, then transitioned to teaching part time as well. Now, he teaches full time at PVCC. Im one of those people that like my job, said Clarkson. And it is clear that this is true. As I am in Ceramics One (Art 153), I can report first hand that he genuinely enjoys helping students improve and seeing what they can come up with. From just basic pinch pots, to working on the wheel, there are all sorts of different styles that an aspiring student can do in this class. But be warned, it's not all fun and games. To make an item out of clay that not only looks good but also functions in its intended use takes time and effort. Visitors will often see students in the workshop outside of class hours, working on whatever project they may have. People think that ceramics is a class where you can just get your hands dirty and it's that easy, but its not, Clarkson said. He went on to say that not just anyone can become good at ceramics, not because of innate talent, but rather their persistence to keep improving. Clarkson teaches the majority of the classes for ceramics, with the one class that he doesnt being taught by professor Ed Miller. The workshop is open to any of the students on Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Friday to Saturday the room is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The class is in Room 114 on the first floor of the Dickinson building. Of course, anyone is welcome to register for classes next semester. Samantha Kral, Maggie Kauffman, Ahmed Al Srya (counter clockwise from left) work on their projects. Photography by Matthew Minecci Page 8 Journalism Keeps You Informed Journalism I students work on The Forum. Photography by Elizabeth Phan Elizabeth Phan, staff writer PVCC offers an incredible variety of courses and electives to choose from. Many courses cover a wide selection of subjects and skills. One of the most challenging, exciting, and fun electives is Journalism. The Journalism course (ENG 121) at PVCC is taught by Dr. Tamara Whyte. Dr. Whyte, associate professor of English, received her bachelor's degree in Journalism and English at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Journalism was my first love. I was editor and chief of my school newspaper and the online editor for the magazine, she said. And then I went and got my PhD in English and started teaching. According to Dr. Whyte, Journalism is important because it keeps people educated and knowledgeable about the world. Journalists try to keep us informed with an unbiased view. Good Journalism is about providing truth, she said. Dr. Whyte hopes that her students leave her class feeling more confident in writing and editing. You dont have to be a journalist to take the journalism class, she said. According to Dr. Whyte, some students who plan to major in business, medicine, or law say that they are communicating and writing more effectively after taking the course. Veronica Reyes, a Journalism I student, said that she is taking the course because she wanted to expand her horizons and try something that she always heard about but never got the chance to take. At times, the hardest thing is writing with precision. Sometimes its seeing your work being edited in front of you, said Reyes. But being in the course has helped me learn more about the English language and how to be an effective writer. Its a very hands-on course. Its not a lecture class. Every week students edit and learn new skills, said Dr. Whyte. Theres no final exam. Instead, there is a final portfolio which students can use when they apply for jobs. Even if you miss an article or a quiz here and there, there are tons of opportunities for extra credit that are fun to take up, said Reyes. The class is fast-paced and time effective because of deadlines. There is not too much chatter unless theres peer review to be done. Journalism I and Journalism II will be offered in the Spring 2020. The course is called ENG 121 and the course number is 24736. It will be a 16week course on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The class is a transfer elective in many degree programs and counts at UVA as a news writing course. Dont be shy to approach topics or interview people that normally would make you scared or intimidated. When you challenge yourself, you will be motivated to piece together a great story. Take a look around and write about what people need to know. No worries, you will fall right into it, said Reyes. The Journalism course and club come together to make the student newspaper, The Forum, for PVCC. If you have any questions or are interested, email Dr. Tamara Whyte at twhyte@pvcc.edu. Work by students in the course and club members can be published in print or online at piedmontforum.com Even if you think this class isnt relevant to the rest of your life, it might be, Dr. Whyte said. Everything has writing. Page 9 Learn about the Human Body from Head-to-Toe Veronica Reyes, staff writer The human body is a complex system of cells, tissues, organs, and nerves that allow humans to do basic things such as eating, talking, walking, or thinking. Despite the human bodys intricate design, it is possible to understand the very systems down to their details in Human Anatomy and Physiology I at PVCC. This course opens the world of how human bodies function to sustain life and how to maintain these systems in the most healthy and scientific way possible to students. Human Anatomy and Physiology, or BIO 141 as it is listed in the Spring 2020 Course Catalog, is considered by professors and students to be a fascinating course despite its rigorous structure. Its fascinating to talk about the many working anatomical parts and how they function together to help us do our many functions, said Associate Professor of Biology Donna Hoefner. What makes this course unique and engaging is the hands-on, visual learning, said student Nancy Facundo. Many students are intrigued by the cadavers, dead human bodies used for research and learning purposes, of which PVCC has two. They also examine other body parts from humans and animals to gain an understanding of the system they are studying in the lab. Labs are related to your notes and helps memorize body parts and nerves, said student Isabel Wyant. The course has an active lab component and extensive lecture and study materials. Wyant suggested to find your learning style, early in the course. She said, Theres a lot [of material] and the class moves really fast and you cant get behind. For that reason, many students struggle to keep up and maintain good grades, which results in many class drops. However, there are many tools provided by PVCC to assist students chances for academic success. One of the best ways to succeed is maintaining a positive and curious attitude toward the course. Professor Hoefner said, Learn for the sake of learning. A natural curiosity about your body and drive to learn more will eventually carry a student. Students also inspire their instructors to remain interested in the course material as well; motivating them to add more insight to their personal knowledge and then later in class. Professor Hoefner believes both students and their professors benefit from open discussions stating, Students ask some challenging questions, and I love learning from what they ask because it challenges me to learn more. The course does not only exist on the pages of a textbook, it allows students to think and theorize. Much of the human bodys parts and functions remain unknown and questioned within the medical and biological community. Fostering interest in the greater picture motivates more students to grasp details during their hours of studying. PVCC offers Student Instruction sessions, open lab hours on weekdays and weekends, free books and models on reserve in the Jessup Library, as well as instructors that are readily available to help. Wyant said, Choose what resources you need. She recommended that students cannot benefit from every service because they might overload themselves. Instead, students should choose which one works best for them and their schedule. Human Anatomy and Physiology is recommended and required for PVCC students interested in careers such as nursing, radiology, medical coding and billing, and other medical related fields. However, students that are interested and are not in this field are encouraged to take the class. Hoefner said, the diversity of student classes really enhances the learning for the whole group. The human body is complex and made up of a lot of intricate parts. However, knowing and understanding how it works can greatly benefit students. This courses extensive tour of human cells, tissues, and organs will give them insight into how their bodies function and how to care for them. Professor Hoefner motivates her present and future students by saying, Be inspired by how your body works! Page 10 Survey of Physical & Cultural Anthropology Abi Brand, staff writer Nestled in the PVCC Sociology department, lies the only anthropology course offered, SOC 210.40: Survey of Physical & Cultural Anthropology. This 3-credit humanities course is taught by Adjunct Assistant Professor of Sociology Brian Robbins. Anthropology is the study of all aspects of the human experience at all times and places, which is as broad as it sounds. Major subfields of anthropology include physical/biological anthropology, archaeology, linguistics, and cultural anthropology. When asked why a student should take Anthropology, Robbins said, You should take anthropology because this is the only class that looks at you and the people youre related to, back through time, and uncovers the story of how you came to be here, speaking the language you do and viewing the world in your cultures unique, modern perspective. Everything from Marvel Comics and Bigfoot to the pyramids and the birth of agriculture are discussed in the class, demonstrating how so many parts of the human story are linked and overlap with one another. Robbins attended Bevill State Community College in Hamilton, Alabama, and studied at the University of Alabama where he received his bachelors in Religious Studies, as well as his masters in anthropology. He also took four years of graduate courses in physical anthropology at the Ohio State University. Robbins said that in this class,You will learn the origins of our species 300,000 years ago ending at the beginning of written history. In order to take this journey, you will be provided with an understanding of basic evolutionary forces, genetics, the study of primates, the birth of civilization, and the aspects of all human cultures, such as religion, kinship, gender, language, and economic systems. As a survey class, you are given the opportunity to explore a wide variety of things anthropologists study, Robbins has been teaching Anthropology for three years at PVCC, two of them being in person and the other online last year. His favorite subfield of anthropology is physical/biological anthropology. He also enjoys paleopathology, the study of ancient disease. When asked what he hopes a student gains from his class, Robbins said, Among the various facts and figures that may be presented to the students, there is one thing I want them to take away above all else: perspective. Were all the same at the end of the day. We experience joy and pain and try to get by each day. That is the universal human experience. The details can vary greatly across space and time. I want my students to leave the class thinking about that. Anthropology is the human story. As humans, we each have a lifetime to write our chapter. I hope my students can be a little more creative in their story now that they have had a look at many of the other chapters. Perspective is so important, perhaps more now than ever. Brian Robbins Page 11 Makers Joy Brings Paws-itivity to Campus Abi Brand, staff writer PVCC has a furry new addition: Makers Joy, an adorable golden retriever who comes to campus to help students pet stress away. The 2 year-old pup is a therapy dog who loves doing exactly what her name says: making joy. Maker has had her therapy dog certifications for just a year, which is extremely early for a dog, as most therapy dogs are two before they even start their journey to becoming a certified smile maker. To be a therapy dog, Maker went through training, a series of observations, and tough classes. The process of her certification took about three months. Maker has a brother, Tayo, who is 17 months old and in the process of going through his own therapy dog training. Makers other brother, Cooper, is 11 years old and is a retired therapy dog. Her favorite activities include fishing, retrieving tennis balls, and being around kids. Maker visits Pre-K through fifth grade every week. Makers owner, Cricket, explained why she decided to certify Makers Joy as a therapy dog. I taught in the school system for many, many years. After I retired, one of the things I wanted to do was to be able to take my dogs back in the schools, and work with students. She, as a puppy, showed a natural tendency to be able to go into schools and have a calming influence on children. So, it was an easy match. When asked about the influence therapy dogs have on students, Cricket said, Youll walk down the hallway and youll notice students look up and smile. Smiling is a natural way to reduce stress and anxiety. The stroking and petting of the dog, lowers your heart rate and makes you feel good. Makers Joy will be at PVCC on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 11:30 a.m. in the North Mall Meeting Room. Come and pet your stress away! Photography by Abi Brand Page 12 Older Animals Need Homes, Too. Karli Tuner, staff writer More than likely, everyone who is reading this article has been to an SPCA at least once in their lives. Those sad little eyes peering back from small and pitiful cages. Some are eager to get your attention, while others need time to work up to that. No matter what, all cats and dogs deserve a warm loving home, all of the attention they ask for, lots of treats, and a nice comfy place to sleep. The Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA is home to a large amount of dogs and cats of all ages. Not many people want older animals and because of this it may years for them to get adopted. While most people prefer to adopt a younger pet, there are unique benefits to adopting a more seasoned pet. For those who cannot adopt or do not have time to foster an animal, there are other options, such as volunteering at the SPCA. Even just getting a little bit of attention or going on a nice walk can really make an older dogs day. Especially considering that many older pets dont get Photography by Karli Turner Photography by Karli Turner enough attention and care. One volunteer said, I already have too many pets at home to adopt anymore, but I volunteer here just to see one old animal. I enjoy taking a variety of dogs on walks and its my favorite part of the day. Miss May and Russet are among many of the older animals who have been at the SPCA for quite some time. These two lovely pit bulls are inseparable friends who enjoy exciting adventures together. If you happen to be interested in them, just remember that they need to go to the same home. As the sign says, Dogs are like potato chips. You cant have just one. For more information about adoption contact the CASPCA at info@caspca.org or call them at 434973-5959. Page 13 Smash Club: A Place of Competitive Fun Matthew Minecci, staff writer If you have ever enjoyed the game Super Smash Bros, but you are tired of playing online or against robots, then you may want to check out The Smash Bros Club. They meet in room M173 at PVCC, across from the fitness center. There, the Smash club has multiple TVs set up so that many people can play the fighting game at once. They cater to all types of play styles, so it doesnt matter if you prefer casual, competitive, or even free-for-all, they have it set up so that everyone has a way to enjoy themselves. When the club had their first meeting, there were only five members, but since then it has grown to have on average 15 to 20 people, varying from meeting to meeting. Whether you want to try Super Smash Bros out for your first time, or have been playing the game for a while, it does not matter. There are sure to be people there that are sure to match your skill level. There are currently no set time for tournaments, but the leaders of the club are hoping to get one set up in the near future. The creator and co-founder of the club, Alexander and Rian, were right there in the thick of things, playing matches and having fun. We wanted to make a community in college for our peers, as we didn't really have one when we first came to PVCC, said Alexander. If you are interested in joining this community, the club meets every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., although sometimes it runs a bit longer if a match goes on longer than expected. Photo courtesy of Tyrik Hawkins Page 14 Find out more about PVCCs Board Game Club Deadra Miller, online editor Every Tuesday between 3 and 7 p.m. Dr. Bruce Glassco, professor of English sits down with a few students and everyday citizens who have a connection to PVCC to play board games, some of which are not widely known. They play these games in the commons area on the third floor of PVCCs Dickinson Building. This specific Tuesday, Nov.19, Dr. Glassco and three others were playing Richard The Lionheart. This was their first time playing this particular game because it was a gift from Dr. Glasscos brother Richard. Dr. Glassco said with a chuckle, My brother bought this game just because his first name is Richard and he thought it was named after himself. The people who were playing Richard the Lionheart were Mykaela Morris, Dr. Glassco, David Platnick and former PVCC student Mason. Mykaela Morris said, Board game club being run by Dr. Glassco is great because he creates a safe space to unwind from the daily stressors that are in my life. Although Dr. Glassco is officially on sabbatical, he still comes in to make sure that this safe place is there for those who may need it. Dr. Glassco also designs board games. His games include. Mystery! Motive for Murder (2015) Fantasy Realms (2017) and his most Photography by Deadra Miller popular Betrayal at House on the Hill (2004) To find out more information about Board Game Club, check them out at club day in the spring semester or email the advisor Dr. Glassco at bglassco@pvcc.edu. (from left) David Platnick, Mason, Mykaela Morris and Dr. Glassco. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 15 Making a Difference One Seed at a Time Veronica Reyes, staff writer Members of the Horticulture Club are planting seeds of community value right here in PVCCs own community garden. Just southeast of the Dickinson building are plots of vegetables and flowers for students, faculty, and the public. However, much more is being planted in Horticulture Club. What you grow goes back into the community and helps people, said Horticulture club member Victoria Luevano. The Horticulture Club is advised by Director of Student Success David Lerman. Lerman teaches PVCC students how to grow plants and care for them throughout the seasons. Students keep and maintain the garden in conjunction with UVA students. PVCCs garden is open to the entire community. Members invite the public to grow what they would like. The garden is not only for the community, and it helps the environment. Luevano explained that members are getting involved by planting vegetables that are donated to various food drives around campus. Some of Horticulture club members from PVCC and UVA also participated in the United Way Day of Caring on Wednesday, Sept. 25. PVCC hosted the event, encouraging everyone to participate to open up more slots in the garden and fix the fence. The Horticulture Club helps students and the public alike to be more hands on with agricultural practices. Faculty members are also invited to join in making a difference from the campus small garden to the planet. What is grown on campus is much more than a few vegetables, flowers, and trees. Students, faculty, and the public are growing to appreciate the environment. One seed can make a difference and the club is hoping for more helping hands next year. Horticulture Club meets every Thursday on campus and has activities Fridays and Saturdays. Email David Lerman, at dlerman@pvcc.edu for more information. The Sun sets on PVCCs Community Garden. Photography by Veronica Reyes Page 16 Va21 is Back to Make Sure Your Voice is Heard. Samuel Huff, staff writer With all of the clubs that PVCC has to offer, many students have a hard time deciding which one best fits their interests. There is a club for book lovers, chess enthusiasts, and even anime-niacs. However, if you are a political whiz, or just looking for a club that advocates for young peoples involvement in democracy, look no further than PVCCs chapter of the Va21 club. The Va21 club had disappeared from PVCCs club roster, but the fall semester of 2019 marked its triumphant return to campus. The club works to educate young people and students of all ages to get them involved in democracy and advocate for changes they want to see, primarily in education policies. Va21 focuses on state politics and how the state government directly affects students lives. Although many students may have an interest in politics, especially in the extremely polarized times we live in, lack of extensive knowledge often serves as a barrier which prevents students from pursuing clubs like Va21. The clubs faculty adviser and Assistant Professor of Politics, Connie Jorgensen, reassured weary students saying, Students should be absolutely comfortable attending, no matter what their level of knowledge may be. Jorgensen has a passion for politics. Not only does Jorgensen teach political science, but she also served in local government and is heading PVCCs Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) entitled Civic Sense. The goal of the QEP is an extension of that regarding the Va21 club: to engage young people in democracy. According to Jorgensen, the club promotes both the activism and the education of its members. Not only do we educate members, but we encourage members to educate their friends and peers, said Jorgensen. If we dont pay attention and take action, we are letting people do unto us. According to the PVCC website, the club has a plethora of benefits available to its members ranging from opportunities to lobby the General Assembly, tour the state capitol, and attending leadership conferences with public officials. The club also has its own website available to the public, where blogs, tips, and opportunities for involvement are featured. The website is virginia21.org, and students are invited to check it out. While these opportunities are not exclusive to club members, Jorgensen pointed out that Va21 exposes members to opportunities they may not have realized existed. The opportunities are available to everyone, but they often cost money, said Jorgensen. She explained how the club maintains a budget that sponsors members, enabling them to attend events. Jorgensen also said that the best part of the club is its credibility. When members attend events on behalf of the club, they are taken seriously, said Jorgensen. Meetings take place each Monday from 12-1 p.m. in room M158. The club invites all students to attend and ensure that their voices are heard. Page 17 Election Day: Democracy in Action Samuel Huff, staff writer If most Americans were asked what the most important election is for them, they would probably respond by saying the presidential election. Many people do not even bother learning when the local elections are. The reality is local and state elections impact our lives on a far greater scale than the presidential election. On Nov. 5 at around 10 a.m., Cheryl Bailey, a Charlottesville local for the past 25 years, arrived at her polling place to cast her vote for positions like sheriff, local senators and local representatives. It was no surprise to Bailey that her polling place had no line. Its disheartening, there will be a line from the door to the highway in November next year. People just don't get why these elections are important, said Bailey. People are so caught up in who they want or don't want as president, meanwhile we have some slime balls here who want to run our town into the ground. While Bailey acknowledges the bias in her statement, she believes the core message in it is still true. The local government has a lot fewer restrictions that they need to overcome to enact legislation that may not be in the community's best interest. Forty five minutes away, in Brightwood, Virginia, there is a similar energy, or lack thereof, at the Brightwood Ruritan Club. Debbie Peters has been one of the first ones in line to vote in every election since she moved to Madison County in 1974. I figure, if I dont show up and vote, what right do I have to complain about what is going on in the community? said Peters. After she voted, Peters then served as a representative for local candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates, Nick Freitas, handing out pens and cards with information about the candidate. Although the turnout all over the 5th district of Virginia was fairly low, those who did show up expressed the passion they hold for their communities and hope to encourage all of us to take part in our guaranteed right to vote. 2019 PVCC Voter Guide made by students. Photography by Jessica Adkins Page 18 Candles Lit for Victims of Anti-Trans Violence Ari Oxford, staff writer Transgender Day of Remembrance is an annual observance every Nov. 20 that recognizes the deaths of transgender and gender non-conforming people who are victims of anti-transgender violence. On Nov. 24 at 7 p.m., community members gathered in front of Peabody Hall at UVA to light candles and recite the names of trans and non-conforming people killed in the USA this past year. According to the Human Rights Campaign, At least 22 transgender or gender non-conforming people [were] fatally shot or killed by other violent means. We say at least because too often these stories go unreported -- or misreported. At the vigil, an intern from the UVA LGBTQ Center started off by addressing how Transgender Day of Remembrance began with Rita Hester, who was murdered on Nov. 28, 1998. Her murder kicked off the Remembering Our Dead web project and a San Francisco candlelight vigil in 1999. He addressed that most anti-transgender murders Global victims reported from this year. Photography by Ari Oxford Vigil candles. Photography by Ari Oxford in the USA are against women of color, mostly black women. One of the speakers shared a quote from Muhlaysia Booker who was killed this year, Ive been shot at, hit with a gun, jumped, maced, robed, piss thrown at me; long story short, I aint afraid of nobody or anything or anybody. After the vigil, attendees moved inside to UVAs LGBTQ Center to talk, drink, and eat. Many knew each other already from other events, but some also made new friends. The last people to leave did so well past 9 p.m. 2019, gonna be one of my best years yet, said Claire Legato who was killed this year. For a full list of transgender and gender non-conforming murders recorded this year, go to tdor.info. The author of this article identifies as transgender. Page 19 Breaking Barriers While Drinking Soup Anandhu Shaji, staff writer On Oct.12, PVCC Fine Arts and the Sin Barreras hosted the Empty Bowl Fundraiser in the Dickinson building. For this fundraiser, the students in the PVCC Fine Arts Program made bowls and sold them. The profit made during this fundraiser went to Sin Barreras. Sin Barreras is Charlottesvilles premier non-profit that serves Spanish speaking immigrants and helps them navigate local social services, helps provide educational and health services, low cost legal services, and community workshops of interest, said Laura Snyder Brown, a member of Sin Barreras. One might think that Sin Barreras is a culturally centered organization; however, that is not the case. Sin Barreras is not a cultural organization. It is a non-profit organization. It means without any barriers in Spanish, said Fanny Smedlie, a long time member of Sin Barreras. Not only were there members of Sin Barreras, but also many enthusiastic members of the PVCC Pottery Program present. Photography by Anandhu Shaji This is a fundraiser. We call it Empty Bowls, where our pottery club has made bowls in our ceramics studio downstairs and we sell the bowls. And we have donated soup and tortillas and dessert. The fundraiser is for Sin Barreras and they provide services to our local immigrant communities, said PVCC Professor of Arts, Tom Clarkson. Each bowl is handcrafted and cost $20 to purchase. Financial Convenience at the PVCC Branch Karli Turner, staff writer Imagine this: a student at PVCC has just a few quarters, but not enough to get a drink or a snack. The student has a credit card and luckily, a few machines do take them. However, it seems as if every time their card is slid through the card slot, the machine never wants to work. After a few more slides of the card, the student begins to become frustrated, so they walk away. A few strides later, the student remembers that PVCC has a bank on campus. Minutes later, the student returns with a few dollars in hand. They get the drink or snack that moments ago seemed impossible before scurrying away to make it to class on time. The PVCC Branch of the UVA Community Credit Union is one of the more overlooked and underappreciated services that PVCC has to offer. The bank is roughly the size of an average linen closet and is in desperate need of a bigger space. Despite its small size, the schools credit union works just like any other bank. Whatever another bank can do, this one can do it too. Few students are actually aware that there is a bank on campus. According to one of the tellers, on average, only about 5 to 10 students use the bank per day. Since few students actually use this bank, the tellers know everyones names who come in on a regular basis; they also get to personally know a few of them. The tellers also enjoy seeing new faces and are always happy to help you with your banking needs. They can even help you set up online banking or talk to you about any kind interest offered if you ask. The tellers usually work on homework when no one needs assistance, which is often. This is why one of the tellers, Ashley, encourages students to, Come see us! as she always enjoys it when more people stop by to use the bank. Page 20 Spamalot Brings Laughs to PVCC Cody Clark, assistant editor PVCC Theatre hosted Spamalot from Nov. 21-24. Spamalot retells the story of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, but in a Broadway musical format. There is something in this musical for everyone. Even if you are normally not a fan of musicals, you will surely enjoy this play. Monty Python and the Holy Grail fans will not be disappointed by the play either. Many of the iconic scenes from the movie are lovingly ripped off from the motion picture, says the plays tagline. The performances from the cast were spectacular. The comedy was well delivered, and the cast received laughs from the audience at all the right times. Two memorable scenes that were adapted into the play were the Knights of Ni and the French taunter. Both the French taunter and the leading knight of Ni were played by PVCCs own Professor of Spanish Kit Decker. Another particularly funny sketch was when Dennis Galahad (played by Zack Zartler) was arguing with Arthur (played by Timothy Read) about the legitimacy of his claim to being king. Arthur and the Lady of Lakes Wedding. Photography by Cody Clark Galahad argues that Arthur was not elected by the people and therefore has no authority. Galahads mother (played by Marie Lotter), on the other hand, was more than happy to have a rich king visiting. She would constantly try to butter up Arthur while Patsy, Arthurs traveling companion, would constantly fight her off. Many of the scenes were done in this manner. There was a primary conflict and then several background interactions between characters that were just as funny. The vocal performances from the cast were also amazing. Some of the most memorable songs were performed with the Lady of the Lake (played by Deanna Dellaganna). Jill Clark, a guest at the play said, The mix of students and local actors made the play feel very professional. While there are no more plays planned for PVCC this semester. There will be a Chorus Concert hosted by PVCC on Dec. 8 and be on the lookout for more Fine Arts performances come next year. The cast of Spamalot. Photography courtesy of Kit Decker Page 21 Gordonsvilles Celebration of Veterans Deadra Miller, online editor On Nov. 9, Gordonsvilles Mayor Robert Coiner, and city celebrated the local veteran heroes. Annually, Gordonsville hosts a parade that involves many communities. From local marching bands to blacksmiths, everyone who signs up by Gordonsvilles application deadline has a spot in the parade. This year, there were approximately four side streets filled with participants for the parade. After the parade route was completed by the participants, there was an award ceremony held at the Gordonsville Fire House. Sixteen winners for various reasons that participated in the parade were awarded by Mayor Coiner. To begin the awards ceremony, Fork Union Military Academy (FUMA) presented the colors (the American flag, Virginia flag, FUMA flag, and two riflemen). The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scout Troop 12 of Gordonsville. Richard Shotwell recited the opening prayer; Mayor Coiner led opening remarks and the honorable mention of the veterans. During the recognition of the veterans, Mayor Photo courtesy of Orange County Review Photo courtesy of Orange County Review Coiner honored five different veterans from the Gordonsville area; Sam Jurlando (U.S. Navy Veteran), Lillian Kay MacCormack and her husband Alexander MacCormack (U.S. Army Veterans), Victoria Sukar (U.S. Navy Veteran), and Forrest Elliott. After the recognition of veterans, Dr. William Bill Foster Hughes, retired colonel, U.S. Army, the keynote speaker, spoke about how Americans should be able to agree on the support of this nations Veterans. Hughes left the audience speechless. After Hughes gave his speech, Mayor Coiner presented the awards to the participants and their organizations. If you are part of an organization that would like to participate in Gordonsvilles 12 Annual Veterans Day Parade check out the Gordonsville website at https://www.townofgordonsville.org/ and fill out an application for entry into the parade. The author of this article walked in this parade with Charlottesville VFW Post 1827. Page 22 Civil Air Patrol Serves the Community Anandhu Shaji, staff writer The Monticello Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) meets every week on Tuesday at 7 p.m. The young cadets aged 12 through 18 are preparing to fall into formation before they start the meeting. A sense of professionalism and pride can be seen in the faces of the young men and women as they say the Pledge of Allegiance and their cadet oath. The Civil Air Patrol is Americas civilian voluntary auxiliary for the air force and what we do is we do 95 percentage of inland search and rescue missions for them as well as have a robust cadet program, teaching young people leadership, life skills and that sort of thing, said Maj. Owen Clark, the current squadron commander of the Monticello Composite Squadron. Each week the squadron has a different type of meeting. These include leadership, emergency services, aerospace education, and physical training (PT). The uniforms they wear depend on the type of meeting they are having. Their uniforms include the United States Air Force Airman Battle Uniform (ABU), the service blues, and athletic clothes for PT. The meeting for the week of October 22, 2019 was PT. The goal of this meeting is not only to make the cadets physically stronger, but also mentally. The activities they do include the mile run, push-ups, sit-ups and a group activity. The meeting ended the same way it started, in a formation. The reason for this is to motivate and let the cadets know what the next week's meeting will be. Anyone ages 12-19 can join CAP as a cadet, and for people above the age of 19 can join as a senior member. The author of this article is a former CAP cadet. The cadets of CAP Monticello Composite Squadron falling into formation for their meeting. Photography by Anandhu Shaji Page 23 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editor Cody Clark Online Editors Jessica Adkins Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Abigail Brand Cody Clark Karli Turner Aleena Haidari Sam Huff Deadra Miller Matthew Minecci Ari Oxford Elizabeth Phan Veronica Reyes Anandhu Shaji Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions.  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com November 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College New PVCC Police Chief Wants to Make a Difference Veronica Reyes, staff writer Many students struggle with difficult circumstances, disappointment, or a lack of optimism per academic and social pressure. PVCCs new police chief believes that finding and setting the example of a positive attitude will make students successful. Throughout his life, PVCC Police Chief Carl A. Murray Jr. faced difficult times with strong determination to better the community. Chief Murray was raised in Newport News, Virginia, in a single-parent family. My mother was my backboneshe encouraged me to be anything as long as I put my mind to it, Murray said. He credits much of his success to the strong support system of the women in his family as well as his uncles and those he knew. When asked if he ever gained interest in Meet the candidates for VA District 58 on pages 12-13 police work before leaving high school, he explained that he had never thought about it, stating, I never saw a police officer growing up. In school, Murray was interested in sports and academics. After high school, he worked as a long-term substitute teacher and received his certification to become a regular, full-time teacher while working a retail job at night. To Murray, everything was going fine until suddenly things changed. Murray was on his way to becoming a school principal, but when a student decided to slash his tires, his plans were altered. When a city police officer came to investigate and file the report, Murray felt as if he didnt really care. His first direct interaction with a police officer made him think about how the police are expected to make a difference in the community. Murray to this Continued on page 4 In This Issue PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Arts Events One Book Events -pgs. 8-9 Businesses -pgs. 14-15 Club News -pgs. 16-17 Reviews -pgs. 22-23 Classifieds -pgs. 6-7 -pg. 24 Chief Murray poses in front of the newly decorated wall of his lobby. DATES TO REMEMBER Election Day Nov. 5 Drop In Job Win LinkdIn Photo Booth * Nov. 5, 4-6 p.m., Bolick Center One Mic Stand * Nov. 7, 7-9 p.m., Dickinson Building D202 In Form: Shapes of Contemporary Improvisation * Nov. 8, 6 p.m., Dickinson Building D202 Virginia Opera Presents Arias and Duets ^ Nov. 9, 7:30-9 p.m. Dickinson Main Stage How to Track Gold Smuggling across West Africa * Nov 13, 12-1 p.m., Auditorium M229 BSA/One Book Screening: Thirteenth * Nov. 13, 12-2 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room The Financially Savvy College Student: Managing Irregular Income * Nov. 14, 12:30-1:30 p.m., M103 Free Movie Friday: Judy * Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Theatre of the Oppressed Lab: Creativity and Democracy * Nov. 16, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dickinson Building D202 PVCCs PTK All Virginia Nominees Cody Clark, assistant editor This month, PVCC is recognizing Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) President Jacob Laxton and PTK Vice President of Service Steven Lunsford for being All Virginia Academic Team nominees. The All-USA Academic Team annually selects twenty members from across the United States. Those selected earn a $5,000 scholarship and are presented at American Association of Community Colleges Annual Conventions Presidents Breakfast. The nominees from Alpha Epsilon Tau, PVCCs PTK chapter, will be recognized at a future event in Richmond by leaders of the Virginia Community College System. Everyone at PVCC is encouraged to join Alpha Epsilon in congratulating the nominees for the 2019-2020 school year. BSA/One Book Screening: Coachman * Nov. 20, 12-1 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Human Services Career Expo * Nov. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room and Bolick Center PVCC Theatre Presents Spamalot ^ Nov. 21, 22, 23, 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 24, 2:30 p.m. Dickinson Main Stage *Free Event ^Student Vouchers Available Jacob Laxton and Steven Lunsford Photo courtesy of Bruce Robinson Page 2 Student Government Association News Elizabeth Phan, staff writer Poker chips lined the tables at PVCCs Casino night on Oct. 11 from 7-11 p.m. in the main building. The halls of PVCC were decorated with a Great Gatsby theme. Gold and black streamers greeted guests upon arrival. Every guest received play money which they could exchange for poker chips or raffle tickets. Music played loudly and a projector displayed popular music videos. Laughter and singing filled the Bolick Student Center as students rushed to place their bets. PVCCs Student Government Association (SGA) staffed the event and set up the poker tables. At casino night, we make the Bolick center look like an actual casino, said Jacob Laxton, the president of SGA. The SGA supplied catering from Bojangles. Chicken tenders, pizza with a gluten-free option, cookies, and vegetable trays covered two long tables in the hallway. The event was open to anyone of any age. Coordinator of Student Engagement and Student Life Shawn Anderson said that students could invite their family or friends to enjoy the night. Each guest received $10,000 in chips. Attendees arrived wearing formal wear to the event. Anyone who dressed up, or donated cans to the food drive, received an additional $10,000 in poker chips. As per casino night tradition, some students wore their Halloween costumes or wore cosplay. All of the poker chips and money were supplied by a casino event company. Laxton said that casino night allows everyone to participate in events that would not otherwise be offered at PVCC. It gives students the chance to meet other students in a non-school driven atmosphere, he said. Guests played blackjack, craps, roulette, trivia, and other games to win poker chips that could later be cashed out for raffle tickets. The raffle tickets were taken to the North Mall Meeting Room where prizes and tables were set up for the last event of the night. Some of the prizes for the raffle event included PVCC bookstore gift cards, PVCC t-shirts, and Amazon gift cards. My favorite part of casino night was the games. The night was a lot of fun. It was lowkey, but also a nice social event, said Phia Davis, an attendee. Getting the word out about the event next year would be nice, she said. Laxton noted, Its a really cool experience. We always want as much people to show up to casino night as possible, so students should definitely invite everyone they know! To be involved in PVCCs next casino night, email sanderson@pvcc.edu to help set up the event or become a dealer. Sophia Keniston dealing to Chief Murray. Photo courtesy of Jan Newcomb Page 3 New Police Chief, Continued day does not want anyone to have a similar, negative experience to his. He applied to Virginia Commonwealth University, where he studied Criminal Justice, and from there, he is now completing his Masters at Virginia State University. For 13 years, Murray served for the Richmond Police Department and spent five of those years as a school resource officer for elementary through high school grade levels. believe that police are hard and tough, but instead he wants to impress on people that we are human beingswe laugh, we dance, we can be down-to-Earth. When not in his office, Murray can be seen on campus dunking over students on the basketball court, stated PVCC student Carlos Martin. Off campus, Chief Murray spends his time with his wife and children. Excitedly, he also shared that he enjoys playing golf and is a fan of R&B group, New Edition. Chief Murray maintains an open-door policy at PVCC. He wants the PVCC Police Department to be more seen, more approachable, for students and faculty. Students are invited to come and talk to him with their concerns, which do not always have to be police related. Surround yourself with those who want you to be successful, said Murray. To be successful, Murray believes that students need to have a good support system which can be made up by one person to several other mentors. For Chief Murray playing basketball at PVCC. Photo courtesy of Chief Murray the chief, these include his mother and fellow police I understand that theres distrust, Murray chiefs. For students, mentors can include himself, explained about the stereotype of police officers. other police officers, faculty, or classmates. For However, he said, it is not the peoples job to get this reason, Chief Murray also expressed interest over the distrust, it is the polices responsibility. in beginning a leadership program for students to Since he first began serving as a police officer, develop and sharpen their skills to be effective Murray remains committed to putting his beliefs leaders in the community. into action. You have to be intentionable, you have to be From grade schools to Virginia State, he a go-getter, he said. He urges students to take always remained active with the student body. As initiative. Chief Murray personally made the an officer at VA State, he spoke at freshman goal of making a difference in the community by orientations, athletic events, and tried to attend becoming a police officer. Murray is looking to the schools events and carnival. He shared videos add more positivity on campus and wants for the and photographs with some of the students and PVCC Police Department to reach out and be athletes that he continues to maintain good there for students. relationships with today. His motto for facing challenges is Dont tell Murray explained that people may always me what we cant do, tell me what we can do. Page 4 How to Transfer Credits after Attending PVCC Deadra Miller, online editor Day this year because students were not fully aware of what schools PVCC has agreements Speaking with a transfer advisor before with and when those deadlines were. Bullinger leaving PVCC would be helpful if one plans to was adamant in promoting the website because attend a four-year university. At this semesters she could not put all of the information needed by Student Success Day, held on Oct. 1, Abby students on paper. Bullinger, an advisor in the Admissions and On Oct. 2, there was also a seminar held in Advising Center, set up a table to explain to room M252 to explain the options in greater students the option of transferring to a four-year detail of how to transfer to a four-year university. university after leaving PVCC. Admissions and advising used PVCCs mascot to Bullinger said, Check out all of the advertise the event. Pouncer rode the transfer agreements, guidelines and possibilities of where tornado. Will you? was used to promote the and how to transfer after graduating from seminar. Students need to understand that PVCC. The website to do this is www.pvcc.edu/ education after PVCC does not end if they do not transfer. want it to, therefore, these seminars and Bullinger had a busy table at Student Success workshops are always offered to students at a variety of times. Student Success Day also included tables from Financial Aid, SGA, Voter Registration, Career Services, and even doughnuts. This year, David Lerman, director of student success and retention, with the help of the other Student Success Advisors, Kristen Holt and Kendra Powell decided to go a different route with food. Instead of pizza, they went with a variety of Krispy Kreme doughnuts. They also spread the Student Success Day events out across two days this semester so that students had a chance to attend if they had class during one of the scheduled dates. The Student Government Association was recruiting for new members during these two days. Financial Aid had riddles that had to be solved in order to receive some of the prizes on their table. This Student Success Day was unlike any other. Although it was a different type of day, it was promising to be fruitful for the students that attended. To take advantage of the opportunities offered at the Student Success Day(s), please stop by M132 and schedule an appointment with one Pouncer was blown away by Student Success Day. of the advisors. Page 5 Los Valientes Receives A Standing Applause Elizabeth Phan, staff writer America and Mexican history. Books, movies, and documentaries were made about these The lights dimmed and suddenly music quiet figures. edthe chatter. On Oct. 12, from 7:30 - 9 p.m., Los The performance of each figure and how the Valientes, The Courageous Ones, gave a beautiful music reflect on their persona was very unique,'' performance in honor of Hispanic Heritage said Elizabeth Valtierra, an attendee. I've read Month. The group performed in the Dickinson books about them but what got me was the music behind the performance, she said. Valiant, meaning brave or courage in Spanish, had a monologue that expressed a deeper meaning to the performance. I had originally thought Joaquin Murrietas El Zorro would have inspired me the most, but it was Oscar Romero, she said. Oscar Romero is an Archbishop of San Salvador. In the performance, his character spoke out about poverty, social justice, economic shifts, and political wars. Those are all topics that are very real to this day. Sadly, he was assassinated, she said. Many leaders and activists were assassinated during a Mass. The musical pieces heightened the meaning of each character's performance. Photo courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations The music only left me wanting more scenes of each building on the Main Stage Theatre. Ticket prices character, she said. I also want to point out that were $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and Oscar Romero is a Catholic figure from San children. Salvador. Its a country that is often overlooked According to PVCCs website, The CORE when recognizing Latin America. ensemble brings diversity, culture, and history At the final scene of the performance, many with the story of human rights and social justice. attendees stood to their feet and applauded the Los Valientes told the story of many men performers. Valtierra, and a few others, wiped including Diego Rivera and Joaquin Murrietaa their tears. real-life Zorro. I would love to see Los Valientes outside of The ensemble played a variety of songs from PVCC. The performance needs to be brought to traditional Latino folk, some famous scores by the community as a Latinx community in Astor Piazzolla, and Osvaldo Golijov. Charlottesville. The community is quickly Each character is an iconic figure in Latin growing, said Valtierra. Page 6 600-Word Horror Stories and the Candyathon Ari Oxford, staff writer On Oct. 28, the Dickinson commons was taken over by five folding tables covered with paper to keep them clean, life-size cutouts of Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley, and about 50 people. The tables had Day of the Dead (Da de los Muertos) themed murals made of candy and designed by Adjunct Instructor of Art Fenella Belles 2-D Design Class. The murals were designed and put together by five teams, and they used candy in several creative ways, such as opening packages of colored sugar candy and spreading it on the table for a background of a scene. After 10 minutes of being on display and judged, the candy in the murals was eaten by creators and attendees. Though the candy murals were supposed to be part of a judged competition, the judges decided that all of the designs won. Once the murals had been decimated, people gathered in the audience in front of the cutouts of Poe and Shelley. Professor of English and Writing Center Coordinator Jennifer Koster and the Creative Writing Club president introduced the authors of the winning stories and the honorable mentions (all of the winners and honorable mentions, as well as their story titles, are listed at the end) of Photos courtesy of Writers Unite PVCC the annual 600-Word Horror Story contest. They presented the authors with custom painted clay medallions before they read their stories. The event ended with Chris Cutshaw dramatically reading his winning story The Home Invader. Winners: First place: The Home Invader by Chris Cutshaw. Second place: Stuffed by Anthony Madison. Third place: Something's Wrong with Amy by Jess Amos Chris Cutshaw (1st); Anthony Madison (2nd); Jess Amos (3rd); and Emily Karasz (Honorable Mention) Honorable Mentions: Pumpkin Eater by Emily Karasz Always Lock Your Car by Natalie Murphy Richie Baby by John Powell Page 7 How to Eliminate Stereotype Threat Aleena Haidari, staff writer like to eliminate stereotypes, then do not hesitate for there are many ways to consider eliminating stereotypes. The easiest way to approach solving this issue is to understand and learn about the implications of stereotypes of affected groups. By simply engaging in conversations or working with people that are different from you, you would gain invaluable experience from the affected people. Learning about others can be challenging if you have a firm belief in your perceptions of them; however, in order to eliminate stereotypes, adopt a growing mindset and allow yourself to be open to new information and new encounters. These steps will allow you to be comfortable with others and understand things from their perspective. Understanding others point of views does not promote rejection of your perspectives; it is a way to peacefully disagree. Do stereotypes have a positive or a negative connotation? Stereotypes are socially constructed perceptions about a particular group, religion, race, and gender. Each group has at least one stereotype; however, the implications or severity of the stereotypes varies from one group to another. As many studies have demonstrated as well as argued by Toni Schamader, the author of Stereotype Threat: Theory, Process, and Application, that when stereotypes amplify, they would severely impact a group and could be considered as stereotype threat. Stereotype threat is defined as a threat or perception that is placed or imposed on a group which could potentially impact their race, religion, or sex, negatively. During the talk, Understanding and Coping with Stereotype Threat, which was one in a series of One Book events, Associate Professor of Sociology Dr. Todd Platts explained studies and statistics that have demonstrated the adverse effects of negative stereotypes. For instance, most schools that are situated in low-income neighborhoods have a high population of African Americans, Latinos, and other minority students. This illustrates that stereotypes have elevated to an institutional level which hinders students performances due to a lack of adequate budget and attribution. Many of these students live in poor neighborhoods and their schools dont receive an adequate budget to properly prepare them in comparison to highly developed neighborhoods. Therefore, it is essential to note that stereotypes have heightened to a point where students are being adversely impacted. Many other countries have carried out similar studies and they have shown similar findings. Dr. Todd Platts. Photo Courtesy of Dr. Todd Platts If you are someone who would Page 8 Carl Brown, Richard Koonce, Eddie Harris, and Duane Washington Photography by Deadra Miller One Book Panel Explores Life after Incarceration Deadra Miller, online editor The term mass incarceration refers to the way the U.S. has locked up a vast population in federal and state prisons, as well as local jails. On Oct. 9, the One Book Program brought in three formerly incarcerated individuals for a panel to explain their experiences of life after incarceration. Carl Brown, The Fountain Fund client relations manager, was the moderator. The other men, Eddie Harris, Duane Washington and Richard Koonce, were all formerly incarcerated individuals that are now succeeding after serving their time. Carl Brown explained that it would be helpful to know the old Jim Crow before reading The New Jim Crow, This being that drugs were brought into society at this time. Brown said, It was intriguing to grow up during the times of segregation. Brown likes to use the analogy that support and failure are one in the same because one has anxiety asking for support and that same person has even more anxiety when they fail. Anxiety is their way of handling situations good or bad. Eddie Harris was the first panelist to explain his personal situation of how he was introduced into the life of crime and how he came out of it. Harris became rebellious when he was around 8 or 9 years old by selling drugs. Now Harris is a part of Ready Kids, which is a non-profit organization that helps children get out of the life of crime by learning to be effective in many ways. Harris is also the CEO of Vinegar Hill Vintage clothing line and Vinegar Hill Magazine. Without the support of a lifelong friend, Carl Brown, he would not be where he is now. Duane Washington, the third panelist to speak, became defiant in the 1980s by selling drugs to support his family because his father was absent. While Washington was incarcerated, he found a faith-based program to start his journey of turning around his life. Washington is now a part of The Fountain Fund and Ready Kids, but also owns his own small trucking company which he achieved in less than nine months. Although it took Washington a long time to find a path within life, he takes time out of his busy schedule to help spread the message of it being possible to make something of yourself after incarceration. Richard Koonce was the last panelist to speak on his rehabilitation after prison. At the age of 15, Koonce began his life in and out of the prison system during a 17-year time frame. He realized after getting sentenced to 60 months in 2014 his reasoning is the misinformation on the inside of those gates is in abundance. During the same year, Koonce decided to go on a fact finding mission to get the information that he needed to turn his life around. After Koonce got out of this time in prison, he became a Virginia State Certified Peer Support Specialist in Albemarle Charlottesville Regional Jail (ACRJ). Now Koonce is teaching incarcerated people how to make something out of nothing. All of these men have interesting stories of getting turned around in life. To understand more of what these men and other prisoners go through, consider reading this years One Book program selection The New Jim Crow. Page 9 Deliberative Dialogue Tackles Tough Issues Samuel Huff, staff writer On Oct. 23, the North Mall Meeting Room on campus was filled with students who came to voice their opinions on one of Americas most touchy subjects: gun control. The students were divided into five groups, each led by a volunteer student moderator who had been trained in the proceedings. Some students had their opinions and were prepared to debate them, that is, until the faculty leading the event opened the discussion by explaining that they were not here to debate their points. Deliberative Dialogue is not a debate where you risk relationships; it is a discussion where you build relationships by understanding where people with opposing views are coming from, said PVCC Professor of English & Writing PVCC Professor Jennifer Koster organized the Deliberative Center Coordinator Jennifer Koster, Dialogue event. Photography by Samuel Huff an organizer of the event. Koster presented a PowerPoint that informed the participants of how this discussion Lets go around and discuss which options would be structured by laying out the rules, the each group connected with the most, said Koster issue to be discussed, and the three possible as everyone reassembled. solutions to be weighed by each group. When the time came for each group to present The rules laid out by the facilitators ensured the solution they had come to accept, this reporter, the environment was one of understanding, who served as a group moderator, was shocked to learning, and respect. Students were encouraged to discover that each group reported vastly different remain open and engaged during the event. conclusions. As the discussions commenced, students While no one answer is right or wrong, each began engaging with each option. From realizing student made points and compromised with their the benefits of some options they had not peers which led to a room of unique viewpoints considered, to respectfully challenging the claims and diverse conclusions. made by their fellow peers, each student had the After the event, participants filled out a short opportunity to expand their understanding of the survey in which many students reported walking topic at hand. away with a broader understanding and an There were several instances where students appreciation for the event. disagreed, but rather than attack each others The goal is to provide a healthy environment character and motives, they explained their for students to voice their opinions and listen to opposition and commended the other participants others; we hope these students will be inspired to for the validity of their arguments. attend future dialogues, said Koster. Once the individual groups had concluded She said the school hosts a Deliberative their independent discussions, they reconvened to Dialogue once a semester. The next is to be reflect on the issue as an entire body. scheduled in March. Page 10 Democrats: Voting Rights are Human Rights! Samuel Huff, staff writer person who you feel is harassing fellow voters by asking them I see youve been challenging many voters today, would you be willing to sign an affidavit that states your purpose for challenging these individuals? After you ask, nine times out of ten, they will leave the voter alone. Its our job as citizens to put a mirror in the face of bigotry and to show the individual that they are wrong without humiliating or vilifying them, said Ragosta. As the meeting concluded, one attendee, who chose to remain anonymous, reported being shocked at the lack of partisan talking points, saying, There was no mention of democratspecific policies, candidate endorsements, or anything dem-related. As a centrist democrat, I was really happy with how this was conducted. For those who are confronted by a challenge this election cycle, Ragosta encourages them to comply by filling out the presented form; however, if one does feel that they are being harassed, they may report to the election officials who are in place to address such issues. Turner encourages all Charlottesvillians, particularly students, to engage not only in the presidential election, but also local and state elections as they, more directly, affect student issues like education funding, maintenance, and tuition. The next breakfast event will take place in November; the date has not yet been released. On Oct. 19, a small group of Democrats assembled in the basement of the Gordon Avenue Library in the heart of Charlottesville. The attendees conversed over coffee and pastries until it was time to begin the meeting. Once a month, this group invites the general public to discuss important issues facing the country. This meetings topic was an issue that hit close to home for many in attendance: voter suppression and voter rights. The meeting was held by the Albemarle County Democratic Party and featured a panel of two prominent figures in the local party: Abigail Turner and Seth Ragosta, both legal consultants and Democratic activists. Ragosta began the meeting by recalling an interaction he had during the 2016 elections in which he witnessed several individuals, primarily caucasian, challenging the validity of several minority voters right to vote. The collective gasp from the crowd set the tone for the duration of the meeting. Several participants reported seeing similar occurrences or even experiencing it themselves. It became clear that Charlottesville suffers from the same bigotry that plagues the rest of the nation. Turner explained that these individuals were exercising their legal right to challenge any voters validity, regardless of how absurd their choices were. One attendee confronted her saying, No one has the right to harass another person. All youre telling us is that you didnt do enough to protect the person you saw being harassed. Turner and Ragosta explained that from a legal standpoint there is little that can be done to prevent this from happening. As citizens, however, Ragosta encouraged those in attendance to challenge the inquiry if they felt that it was unfounded. Seth Ragosta (left) and Abigail Turner (right) address a room of Without being democratic voters. Photography by Samuel Huff aggressive, approach the Page 11 Elizabeth Alcorn Visits PVCC Cody Clark, assistant editor limitation of high capacity magazines. The general election will be held on Nov. 5. You can find out more about Elizabeth Alcorn at https://alcornfor58th.com/. PVCC also has a nonpartisan voter guide available for free. On Oct. 29, Dr. Elizabeth Alcorn came to PVCC to talk with students. In the Bolick Student Center, Alcorn was available from noon to 1 p.m. to discuss her plans for office. Alcorn is currently seeking election in the Virginia House of Delegates for District 58. During Alcorns time in the Bolick Center, she discussed many topics with students. A topic that was discussed between Alcorn and students was education. Alcron said that Virginia needs to tweak the funding formula for public schools. Alcorn also stated she would like to change the SOLs because they have become an unhealthy culture. Another topic that students brought to Alcorn was abortion and birth control. Alcorn said that abortion should remain an option for women, but wants women to have fair access to all kinds of affordable birth control. Students also brought up guncontrol and this lead Alcorn to talk about support for red flag laws, background check reform, and the Elizabeth Alcorn talking with PVCC students. Photography by Cody Clark Page 12 Rob Bell Meets with Students at PVCC Jessica Adkins, online editor On Thursday, Oct. 24, Virginia Delegate Rob Bell greeted students in PVCCs Bolick Student Center. Delegate Bell is currently the Republican candidate in a race for Virginia House District 58. The meet and greet started at 12 p.m. and lasted a little under an hour. Accompanying Delegate Bell was his assistant and President Frank Friedman. Bell spoke with fellow PVCC students and staff about the issues he wishes to address if reelected. Some of those issues that he spoke about included mental health reform, veteran services, and anti-abortion legislation. After introducing himself, he opened the floor to questions from students and staff. Every five minutes, Bell would notice that new people came into the crowd and would ask the same question, Is there anything that I can help with in the transfer process to a four-year school? Several students made comments of their concerns when dealing with transferring. After talking about the community college system, Bell answered a question about mental health. Bell said that he is an advocate for mental health care reform and always has been since his son has been diagnosed with a mental illness. He then went on to talk about Senator Creigh Deeds son and his suicide. He said that the reason Deeds son killed himself was partly because he could not find a psychiatric hospital that had room for him. Bell implied that Deeds son was denied entry and later took his own life after not seeking proper medical treatment. Bells goal for mental health reform is to make more room available for those who need it. Bell also spoke about how some people with mental illnesses will be taken to jail instead of a psychiatric hospital, which can lead to negative outcomes. One of the last questions that Bell answered was his view on abortion. Bell went on to talk about how Virginia has passed multiple bills that are related to abortion. He said, The part of the bill that received the most attention was a reduction of restrictions on third trimester abortions. I am pro-life, so it failed 5-3. When Bell was finished answering questions, students had the ability to talk with him one-onone to get to know him a little better and have any questions answered. Bell handed out business cards to anyone who asked for one. After the meet and greet was over, students were able to enjoy bagels provided by Bell. Rob Bell talks with PVCC student. Photography by Jessica Adkins Page 13 Interview with a Small Business Owner Matthew Minecci, staff writer On the county line between Albemarle and Greene Counties lies an abandoned gas station. It has been ignored and unnoticed for years. One day, just over a year ago, an aspiring young business woman took notice of it. With hard work and a flair for a more rustic style, she converted the station into the store County Line Country Mercantile, a place that has got a little bit of everything. The owner of County Line is Wendy Peery. The store can be found at 5548 Seminole Trail, and they are open Wednesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 5 p.m. Homemade knickknacks and antiques fill the space. Going for an autumn theme, pumpkins and hay were everywhere, creating a cozy feeling. The store doesn't sell specific items. The owner expressed that she would buy things she thought were interesting and sell them at the store. She also has hobbyists whose items are sold there. She would then split the profits with them 70/30, her getting the 30. Peery does not have a business degree. In fact, she never even went to college. But still, she is successfully running a small business. She said that she had originally been in real estate, but after a particularly slow year she decided to follow her dream and try to open up a store. If youre passionate about something, it will fall into place. But it won't be easy, she said. She went on to explain that young business owners should surround themselves with good and trustworthy people if you want to succeed. The store can be found on the county line on 29, and they are open Wednesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon. to 5 p.m.. Small Talk Lands Job Interviews Veronica Reyes, staff writer On Thursday, Oct. 17, PVCC Career Services hosted much more than a general job fair, bringing in a variety of employers in business, accounting, and office administration in the Bolick Student Center. The events are part of an individualized approach to help students find a career based on their degree program. Every month, PVCC is focusing on one major area of interest. October is all about Business related careers and programs. From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., local employers had tables and representatives to talk to prospective students about career options as well job and internship openings. Some employers included the Virginia Forestry Service, Verizon, University of Virginia, Millennium Partners, and PVCC. Photography by Veronica Reyes You never know when a conversation will turn into an internship, or job, explained PVCC Job & Internship Coordinator Gigi Davis. She emphasized the importance of students making that connection as early as you can with employers in your area. No matter what field PVCC students are pursuing, gaining relationships with businesses and offices in the area they hope to be employed in can make one stand out in a pool of applicants. Students and the general public are invited to attend upcoming Career Services events. Sometimes the best time to look for a job is when you already have a job. And its beneficial to talk to local representatives and get their feedback on your career path and resume, said Associate Professor of Accounting Kevin Arrington. In November, Career Services is concentrating on Human Services. Anyone looking for a career in Education, Nursing, and Social Services is welcome to the variety of public events on campus. In April, there will also be a new summer internship event for all students. Career Services is hosting more events and employers on campus every week. Be sure to shake their hand, grab a brochure, and make a good first impression to a prospective employer. Page 14 Lowes help the Madison Mountaineers Anandhu writer Shaji, staff As part of their yearly tradition, the Lowes Home Improvement store in Ruckersville, Virginia did their Heroes Project on Saturday, September 21, 2019 just like hundreds of other Lowes Home Improvement stores around the country. The goal of the Heros Project is for us to be a part of the community. Lowes invests $2,500 per store and each store has the ability to go into the community and partner with a non-profit Photography by Anandhu Shaji organization that needs help such as refreshing schools, said Michael Comerford, the store their exterior and interior. Along with volunteers manager of Lowes in Ruckersville. from the Lowes Home Improvement store were This year, Lowe's at Ruckersville is helping students and athletes from the Madison County the Madison County High School refresh parts of High School. The store provided tools, equipment, and resources to the students and volunteers for the task. We found out that they had a need that they didnt have a budget for and because of that we stepped in and offered our assistance, said Scot Satkovich of the Lowes Home Improvement store in Ruckersville. The parents and teachers of students at Madison County High School only had good things to say about the project. I think its a great thing absolutely wonderful. Kids need to be more involved in the schools looks and it bring school pride, so its a great thing, said Krista Turner, a teacher and a parent at Madison County High School. The author of this article is an employee at Lowes Home Improvement Photography by Anandhu Shaji at Ruckersville, Virginia. Page 15 International Club Welcomes Everyone Elizabeth Phan, staff writer PVCCs International Club hosted its annual potluck party on Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. in the main building. Members of the International Club gathered in the Bolick Student Center to share traditional dishes. Tables were covered with cuisines from all over the world. Best of all, the dishes were all homemade and free. According to PVCCs website on the International Club page, their mission is to cherish the values and differences that everyone at PVCC has to offer. It provides ways for international and native students to learn about various cultures and traditions. International Clubs potluck had many dishes from countries such as Afghanistan, Turkey, Nepal, Georgia, China, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. Chinese members brought dumplings and spicy seaweed snacks. They also served spicy Napali noodles, beef curry, Afghanistan rice, and baklava. The event lasted for longer than two hours. Members and attendees listened to music from all over the world, danced, and played Twister. Aleena Haidari, the vice president of International Club, said that she hopes more students participate and join meetings. International club will host a hiking event on Nov. 2. Its a way to bond and connect with our members and get to know each other on a personal level. Were also going to host yoga during the final exam week to help students relax and de-stress, Haidari said. International Club meetings usually hold presentations, activities, and food. Their most recent meeting consisted of a presentation about Diwali while enjoying free pizza and drinks. In the future, International Club will be celebrating Holi (festival of colors), food festival, and Culture Day. Im in the club because it is fun and exciting to learn new things about others and their cultures, Haidari said. International club brings students from all over together and provides them the opportunity to showcase their culture and tradition without fear of any backlash or judgment. Everyone is welcome to join us. We meet once a month on Wednesday, room 161, from 12 p.m.- 1 p.m., Haidari said. Photos courtesy of Aleena Haidari Page 16 Girls Geek Day Inspires Kids to Pursue STEM Ari Oxford, staff writer On Oct. 12, the joyous giggles of young girls filled the cafeteria of Crozet Elementary School as they picked what activities they would do that morning. About 100 parents, kids, and volunteers spent their Saturday making music with code. They built towering structures, played with robots, launched rockets with the Piedmont Student Launch Team (PSLT), and other fun and educational activities. Girls' Geek Days are all about sparking elementary school-aged girls interest in technology and Kids building with pipes and connectors computing by providing a fun, Photography by Ari Oxford collaborative, hands-on environment to learn new tech skills and helping them connect to other STEM programs in the with the girls, says the website, www.techcommunity, according to the Tech-Girls website. girls.org/girls-geek-day.html, where visitors can Girls Geek Days are organized by Tech-Girls sign up to volunteer at the events. and hosted at a different school each month. The The future dates and locations are: next session will be Nov. 9, at Cale Elementary Nov. 9 - Cale Elementary School School, near the PVCC main campus. Dec. 14 - Broadus Wood Elementary School Registration is required beforehand, but is free, Jan. 11 - Meriwether Lewis Elementary and opens to the host school a week before the School general public. Feb. 15 - St. Anne's-Belfield School Girls Geek Days are open to any elementary March 14 - Stone Robinson Elementary school-aged girls. If you have an interest in the School event but do not have a kid to bring, they are April 18 - Greer Elementary School always looking for volunteers. No previous The writer of this article was previously the experience is required - you can learn right along team lead of PSLT. Kids launching rockets with PSLT Photography by Ari Oxford Page 17 Todd Platts: Through the lens of Sociology Elizabeth Phan, staff writer Dr. Todd Platts nervously leaned into the back of his chair. He clasped his hands together and fiddled his fingers in thought. I got in my mind, with a 1.72 GPA, that I wanted to be a professor, he said. Platts graduated from the University of Missouri with a PhD in Sociology in 2013. He never thought he would become a professor. In fact, he did not know what he wanted to be. I was a very bad student in college, he said. I almost failed out of college. He struggled a lot and found himself blaming his professors. In the Fall of 2000, he realized he wanted to be a professor. I thought being a college professor was easy. I was wrong, by the way, he said. The reason why I chose Sociology was because after my Fall semester, I needed to declare my major. So, I looked at which class I was the least behind in and my answer just so happened to be Sociology. After graduating, he struggled with finding a job. He said he questioned if becoming a professor was the right choice. It was difficult. I was down to my last three applications and unemployed, he said as he tapped his fingers on his desk. Before arriving to PVCC, he was a visiting assistant professor at the University of Southern Mississippi. Now, Platts is the associate professor of sociology and has been teaching at PVCC since August 2015. He says that he feels like his experience as a student has really benefited him as a teacher and hopes that his students leave with the ability to question the world. Now, Platts focuses on horror studies. Its, ironically, a weird hobby of mine, he said, People assume the reason why you study something must because you love it, like, I live and die on zombies, but Im actually not a big fan of zombie cinema, he said as he sat forward. He further explained that he studied the topic of zombies through the lens of Sociology because of his research on post 9/11 zeitgeist. He discovered that the images of post 9/11 were similar to many zombie imagery circulating in media. One of his greatest achievements, Platts won a PVCC Faculty Excellence Award for his outstanding work and community effort; he also Photo Courtesy of Dr. Todd Platts teaches at the Fluvanna Correctional Center For Women. I want to try to be part of something that helps them reintegrate into society, he said as he fixed his glasses in concern. He hopes that society keeps an open mind when working with the community. There arent really a lot of opportunities, he said, and theyre so talented and able. In his most recent works, Platts and his team, Mathmis, Clascan, and Mccollum, have been developing a book titled Blumhouse: The New House of Horror, which is one of the first in depth academic analysis of Blumhouse studios. Blumhouse studios is a famous cinematography studio that has worked on films such as IT and Get Out. His next book will be an assessment of early studio error with voodoo as the major plotline. The working title is Hollywood Voodoo. In the book, Platts will research the production, reception, and discourse of voodoo and the reflection of early cinema surrounding Haiti. Most of Platts work can be found on https:// pvcc.academia.edu/ToddPlatts where anyone can view his articles. He said, Im glad I went through (what I did as a student) and now 20 years later. I remember the first question I got: Is this your first time teaching? Page 18 Academic Coaching Teaches Students to Learn Samuel Huff, staff writer she is able to provide to students, her own experience being the first go to. Yoder exposes her students to new ways of thinking through topics and problems. When a student approaches her with an issue that doesnt fall in line of her expertise, Yoder is knowledgeable and able to point them in the direction of an alternative resource that may better serve them. Yoder, along with the other experienced Academic Coaches, are a reliable asset to the PVCC student body. Whether you are just wanting supplemental advice or needing extensive help designing an effective study plan, Academic Coaching is a PVCC resource that you will undoubtedly benefit from. Though it is a fairly new addition to the long list of PVCC resources available to students, Academic Coaching is credited to the success of many successful PVCC alumni. From helping students develop academic skills, like note-taking and time-management, to providing stress management techniques, Academic Coaching is an invaluable resource that all students stand to benefit from. Located in the Writing Center of PVCC, Academic Coaches provide personalized sessions to help students balance work, school, and daily life. The writing center opens each weekday at 9 a.m., and the Academic Coaches are available by appointment. Ruth Yoder, a PVCC alumna, has been an Academic Coach for about three years; she meets with students daily to help them discover the tools that are needed to succeed in their Academic lives. With each student being unique in their learning styles and capabilities, different students require different strategies. One such strategy is a regularly scheduled visit. Every week, your meeting with someone who is asking you how your studies are going, says Yoder. She is speaking to the sense of accountability that students are provided by Academic Coaching. That sense of accountability comes into play when students make appointments on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Yoder believes that this encourages students to stay caught up on assignments and put forth a greater effort to maintain their grades. Of course, recurring visits are not required, and students may attend sessions as much or as little as they desire. Ruth Yoder is an academic coach at PVCC. Yoder has a plethora of Photography by Samuel Huff resources available to her which Page 19 Celebration of Autumn at Chiles Orchard Karli Turner, staff writer The Fall Into Fun Festival lasted two days; Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday 22 of This event Chiles Peach Orchard, located in Crozet, has offered a variety of activities. Both days, events been a family owned orchard for the last 100 consisted of apple picking, wagon rides, face years. This scenic orchard, has just ended its painting, and Uncle Daves Kettle Corn. eighth year of Fall Into Fun Festival, which Uniquely, Saturday offered an apple butter celebrates the change of season. This was a great making demonstration, while Sunday offered the event for adults who wanted to enjoy a calm day Walnut Ridge Boys, a band from the Shenandoah out with their friends, teenagers, older couples, Valley, who stopped by to play their distinctive and families with young children. Though, this style of Bluegrass music. Behind the market, wine festival is not big or well known, it had a nice and Bold Rock were provided as well. small-town charm to it. Though, the orchard itself is quite small, the wagon ride was a very successful attraction because the orchard is located right at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains which provided a picturesque view. The wagon ride was especially popular for families with small children because the children loved watching the apples and pumpkins slowly drifted by them, and the ride itself really seemed to calm the children. However, the wagon ride wasnt just for families with young children. Anyone who wanted to enjoy more of the view could climb aboard for a ride. Those who visit this incredibly scenic orchard should stop inside the market to check out the variety of goods, most of which are produced at the orchard. Before leaving, visitors should stop by the snack counter, located inside of the market, to try their homemade ice cream and milkshakes. The most popular items seem to be the freshly made peach and strawberry milkshakes because most of the ingredients come right from the orchard. Throughout most of the year, Chiles Peach Orchard is open to the public seven days a week. Anyone interested should definitely check out this smaller, Chiles Peach Orchard in Crozet. Photography by Karli Turner not as well-known orchard. Page 20 State Fair of Virginia Celebrates 165 Years Jessica Adkins, online editor anything from kettle corn to chicken tenders. Past the food vendors was the RAM Ride and Drive The State Fair of Virginia has been around for off-road course. This attraction was free and 165 years, according to Richmond Magazine,. allowed people to ride in a RAM 1500 trucks Every year, the State Fair attracts thousands of through an off-road course to show all of the offpeople, including some from out of state. These road capabilities. Each truck was driven by a people come to the State Fair to see animals, eat professional driver. One driver said, I do not fair food, purchase from vendors, and ride a few actually work for Dodge. I just simply come and rides. This year the State Fair was open from drive people around. Friday, Sept. 27 to Sunday, Oct. 6. Once people walk through the first part of the This year the State Fair main attractions, which fair they are met by a tunnel. Sounds of joyous can be found on the State Fair of Virginias laughter and entertained talking echoed off of the Website, included Xtreme Chinese Acrobats, a curved walls of the tunnel. Once on the other side, group of street people could choose two drummers, livestock directions to go. To the competitions, tractor right, up a hill, was a pulls for smaller childrens area, livestock tractors, the Ultimate tents, the Meadow Stunt Circus, the Pavilion, more food demolition derby, the vendors, Rosaires Richmond Portal, Racing Pigs, and the Rosaires Racing Pigs, Richmond Portal. In the the Blacksmith World livestock tent, there were Championships, and chickens, ducklings, Mutton Bustin, which rabbits, and guinea pigs is a sport where little for sale. The ducklings kids ride on the back of were four for $6. In side a sheep to resemble bull of the Meadow riding. Pavillion, one could find Getting to the State information booths Fair was a little tricky about all things this year. All of the free agriculture. First place chicken at the State Fair parking lots were After coming down Photography by Jessica Adkins packed full of cars and the hill people were buses. Premium parking was offered for $15 a greeted by the recognizable scent of fried food. car, and that gave people the opportunity to get Located just a few feet from the bottom of the closer parking. Handicap parking was also staircase were all of the food, vendors, and rides. available. People could walk around with a corndog and Once people got to the front gate, they were purchase jewelry all within five feet of each other. greeted by security officials that were checking In the midst of the hustle and bustle was the bags and strollers. After passing through security, Expo Center. In the Expo Center, people could there were two directions to go. The first direction find everything from Virginia Lottery tickets to a was to the left just past security. This was the line candy maze. People of all ages especially flocked for people who had purchased their tickets online to the candy maze. Little children could not help or for those who had state fair season passes. The but put their hands into every candy bucket their second option was for those who had not yet was. Other exhibits in the Expo Center included purchased tickets. The ticket booths looked like an art showcase from Virginia schools. little sheds that were evenly spaced which Fair-goer Rachel Blocksom said her favorite allowed for smooth traffic flow between them. part of the State Fair was The racing pigs, of Just beyond the front gate, food vendors sold course. Page 21 A Pocket of El Salvador in Charlottesville Veronica Reyes, staff writer As the waves crash against the coast and the infectious melodies of popular music styles such as cumbia and salsa fill the valleys at the foot of the green, lush mountains of El Salvador, the rich smell of freshly cooked meat and maize wrap the people in a comforting bubble of a beautiful culture. Just at the foot of the mountains that surround Charlottesville, is Mi Casita Salvadorian Restaurant, a local venue featuring authentic food from Mexico to Central America with a taste that reminds local Hispanics of home and will take you there too. Just ten minutes away from PVCC, Mi Casita is located at 312 Pantops Shopping Center. Mi Casita serves classic El Salvadorian and Honduran breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. Mi Casita is different from the Hispanic restaurants in the area. We are not your typical Mexican sit A tamale, taco, and papusa at Mi Casita Photo courtesy of Tammy Navarro down restaurant, but an informal HOMETOWN LATINO-CENTRAL AMERICAN place with a twist. All fresh, handmade, and always hot, the restaurant venue said on their website. Their detailed attention to bringing the bold and common flavors of El Salvadorian and Honduran cuisine is unmatched with other Latino restaurants in the area. When you walk into the dining room, you can automatically feel the home like vibe the restaurant owners describe. There are no overwhelming features of Hispanic culture, just simple decorations with quiet background music including popular Latino styles. One can feel as if they have walked into their home dining room and can feel comfortable and enjoy a delicious meal. For breakfast, try a Baleada. This is a thick flour tortilla filled with refried beans, scrambled egg, sour cream, and avocado. Breakfast meals such as Baleadas can cost less than $5. Another popular option is a hot, fresh burrito filled with steak, cheese, and vegetables for under $10. Just, maybe not before class if you want to be awake for most of it. Be sure to pair it with Mi Casitas Horchata, a plant-based milk drink with cinnamon. For lunch, if youre looking to sample of a little bit of everything, find the lunch specials and order Especial #1, which includes one taco with steak, a pupusa (a thick cornmeal pocket filled with pork and cheese), and a tamale (or tamale with chicken and a doughy outer layer). All tacos from Mi Casita are common to street food style which is often small but packs a delicious punch. The pupusas and tamales are made just like they would be in El Salvador. Those who dined with me thoroughly enjoyed their meals as well which all ranged between $6 to $12. However, all new businesses have their cons. Mi Casita is fairly new and is heavily understaffed at lunch time. When my friends and I went, there was only one waitress taking orders, bringing meals, and ringing customers up for dine -in and carry-out. We waited for about thirty minutes for our lunch. This is a nice place to bring a few friends for a long lunch and many who work there speak both English and Spanish. You always enjoy kind service from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. One thing you can tell about this place is that Hispanics like it. If most of the customers are Hispanic, you know this is good food, noted one customer. Mi Casita is welcoming back authentic Latino dishes with a formal dining experience to Charlottesville for all to enjoy. For a fresh, hot El Salvadorian meal for great prices, you cannot beat Mi Casita! Page 22 Pizza Hut Invaded by Singing Charlottesvillians Samuel Huff, staff writer On Thursday Sept. 19, the night started out slow at Pizza Hut on W Main Street as usual. The staff, however, were busy using their down time to prepare for the biggest night of the week. Around 9 p.m., people from all over Charlottesville flood the small restaurant for the main event. Every week, Thunder Music takes over the restaurant and transforms the usually quiet eatery into a karaoke concert hall. People from all walks of life come together to eat, drink, and sing their favorite artists greatest hits. While some people are new to the weekly event, most of the patrons are regulars and look forward to seeing the friendly faces that fill the restaurant. Most of us see each other as family, and this serves as our weekly reunion, explained Carly Bradburn, a freshman at UVAs School of Nursing. Bradburn and her friends have been attending the karaoke night each week for the past year, only missing out when inevitable. Their moment of stardom comes each week when the group performs the Backstreet Boys classic I Want It That Way. With three high-tech microphones and an endless collection of songs, anyone can be a rock star for the night. From an 8-year-old belting out Whitney Houstons I Will Always Love You to a retired trucker rocking out to Bon Jovis Livin On A Prayer, the night is filled with unique voices, fun performances, and every genre one could imagine. The atmosphere was one of love and acceptance; the only rule of the night being no talent required. As voices cracked and lyrics were skipped over, the audience erupted with cheers that would put Celine Dion to shame. Clinton Johnson, the karaoke DJ and owner of Thunder Music, said, This is a fun, safe space and our goal is to bring the community together, not just the UVA community or the young crowd, but all of Charlottesville. With such a diverse group of participants, it is safe to say that the goal is achieved each week. Johnson also uses his platform and the event to raise money for charities around the holidays. With all the singing going on, the staff is hard at work supplying the crowd with delicious pizza and cocktails. Karaoke nights at Pizza Hut are livelier than any other nights, its awesome to see everyone so eclectic and joyful, explained Norman Dorise, the head bartender. Dorise was an employee when the karaoke night was first implemented and has watched it grow to the tradition it is today. Dorise stays busy throughout the night, but he always makes time to grace the crowd with his rendition of It's Raining Men by The Weather Girls. With affordable cocktails, local beers, classic food, new friends, and singing Charlottesvillians, karaoke night at Pizza Hut is a hidden staple of Charlottesvilles culture. Pizza Hut on W Main Street in Charlottesville appears empty as the employees prepare for karaoke. Photography Samuel Huff Page 23 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editor Cody Clark Online Editors Jessica Adkins Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Abigail Brand Cody Clark Karli Turner Aleena Haidari Samuel Huff Deadra Miller Matthew Minecci Ari Oxford Elizabeth Phan Veronica Reyes Anandhu Shaji Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions.  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com October 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College Learn More About PVCCs Quality Enhancement Plan Jessica Adkins, online editor On Oct. 14, 2019, a group of accreditors will be coming to PVCC to see how the college will be implementing their new Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). Every ten years, PVCC goes through a re-accreditation process to decide on a plan to improve PVCC. This includes a QEP. When it was time to decide on a topic for the QEP, President Frank Friedman was in charge of calling a mandatory, all-college meeting to have faculty and staff choose from a list of ten topics. Out of those ten topics, Civic Sense was chosen. What is really cool is that the topic was chosen by the school as a whole, said Connie Jorgensen, assistant professor of Political Science. Civic Sense was chosen as the topic for the QEP because PVCC encourages students to Check out the photos from Club Day pages 12-13 be actively engaged within their community. PVCCs previous QEP was Writing Across the Curriculum, which was proposed ten years ago. With the implementation, PVCC now requires students to take writing-intensive courses so they will be better prepared for the future. Along the same lines, this QEP includes creating civic engagement classes. PVCCs Quality Enhancement Plan, Civic Sense: Engaging in the Civic Life of their Communities, seeks to build graduates who have a strong commitment to democracy, and who engage in the civic life of their communities through collaborative, creative, and critical problem-solving, according to the PVCC website. To learn more about Civic Sense, stop by the table in the Bolick Center or visit its page on the PVCC website. In This Issue PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Student Voting -pg. 4 Panther Pantry -pg. 6 Calligraphy -pg. 11 CVILLE Pride -pg. 14 Reviews Classifieds -pgs. 17-23 -pg. 24 Hannah Thacker & Chad Mitchell. Photography by Connie Jorgensen DATES TO REMEMBER Fall Break Oct. 7-8, All Day, No classes Jim Hingeley - One Book Speaker * Oct. 10, 12:30-2 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Moneys Not Free: How Credit Loans Work * Oct. 11, 12:30-1:30 p.m., M103 In-Form Shapes of Contemporary Improvisation* Oct. 11, 6-8 p.m., Dickinson Black Box Theatre Empty Bowls Fundraiser Oct. 12, 5-7:30 p.m., Dickinson Commons Core Ensemble Los Valientes ^ Oct. 12, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Why Change? The Power of Mind Techniques* Oct. 15, 12:30-1:30 p.m., M627 Documentary: Color the Line of Scrimmage * Oct. 16, 12-1 p.m.., M229 Business, Accounting and Administrative Support Career Expo * Oct. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bolick Student Center Healthy Habits and Your Core * Oct. 17, 12:30-2 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Film Making Workshop with Ty Cooper * Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Free Movie Friday: The Farewell * Oct. 18, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Theatre of The Oppressed Lab * Oct. 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dickinson Black Box Theatre VACRAO College Fair Oct. 28, 9-10:30 a.m., Bolick Student Center Course Cafe * Oct. 29-30, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bolick Student Center * Free Event ^ Student Vouchers Available Editors Note Cody Clark, assistant editor My early life was defined by self isolation and a constant need to entertain myself. I live in a secluded neighborhood at least 20 to 30 minutes from anything of interest. My parents were usually busy with work or my sister who was born with autism. I would soon find video games and books as the chief way to entertain myself and stave off boredom. My passion for video games eventually sparked my love for writing and storytelling. I eventually turned to YouTube for more content related to games I was interested in. I eventually found journalistic channels that covered gaming. This in turn piqued my interest in journalism. During the Spring semester of 2019, I enrolled in English 121 Introduction to Journalism. Prior to taking this course, I would never watch the news or read articles. I was used to seeing the glimpses of politicians arguing and celebrity news and thought that it was all just ridiculous. There were many times where I never found out about a major event until someone told me or I saw it in a meme. Upon starting ENG 121, I found out that modern journalism is so much more than what I believed it to be. I learned how to tell biased news sources from unbiased ones. I became more knowledgeable about the world I live in. I also got the chance to explore PVCC and meet many staff and students I would not have otherwise. My recent work with Civic Sense and research into student voting has even gotten me interested to vote. Seeing people my age being so active and involved has inspired me to do the same. I would highly recommend for anyone to enroll in a class that could expand their worldview. Clubs and other groups at PVCC are great at this, too. PVCC brings as much of the world to the campus as they can and it is something special. Page 2 Student Government Association News Page 3 PVCC Ranks in Top 80 for Student Voting Cody Clark, assistant editor Historically, college students have been inactive voters. However, according to the National Study of Learning, Voting and Engagements (NSLVE) Democracy Counts 2018 report, student voters have been increasing since 2014. The national average in 2018 was 39.1 percent up from 19.7 percent in 2014. PVCC, however, had a 50.8 percent student voting rate in 2018. Because of this high voter turnout, Washington Monthly listed PVCC as one of the top 80 colleges for student voting in 2019. In the NSLVE report about PVCC, demographics are shown in greater detail. The report shows that the greatest change was voters between 22 to 24 years old with an increase of 32.9 percent. Voters aged 18 to 20, 25 to 29, and 30 to 39 also had increases of over 20 percent. Students over the age of 40 saw the lowest percentage of growth at 17 percent. When asked about what has caused this change in PVCCs students voting habits Assistant Professor of Political Science and Civic Engagement Coordinator Connie Jorgensen said that it was due to the Civic Engagements voter outreach. Jorgensen also believes students get more involved when they see their peers involved and excited. The nonpartisan voting guide created by the collaboration between the Forum and Jorgensens political science students has also helped. Jorgensen said its objective is to try to make the election visible. Its only at 50 percent, added Jorgensen, insinuating that the rate could get even higher. When voting, there is always a chance the candidate you voted for could lose by a substantial amount. Some may wonder if their vote even matters in situations like this. On this subject Jorgensen said, Even if you lose you made a statement. Jorgensen also described an instance where one vote would have made all the difference in Virginia when the 2018 Virginia House of Delegates election was tied, and the winning candidate was decided by pulling a candidates name from a bowl. Hannah Thacker, Chad Mitchell, and Gretl King, Photography by Cody Clark Page 4 PVCC Offers Mentorship Program Aleena Haidari, staff writer Coming to college and pursuing higher education is a rewarding milestone to each student, but it can also be overwhelming. Many students, who graduate high school and seek higher education, can be overwhelmed by the complex system of education and the transition from high school to college. The Mentorship Program was officially established two years ago, which provides guidance and assistance to newly graduated high school students. Thanks to the faculty and staff at PVCC, who are generous to volunteer their time to mentor the newly high school graduates. In the 2018-2019 academic year, there were 60 PVCC faculty members who were matched to 120 students. Each mentor was paired with two mentees to share their experiences and help them grow as a person. Since this program has no specific guidelines of how mentors should assist students, assistance and mentorship varies from one pair to another. For instance, some of the mentors have taught their mentees how to drive and some have helped them to grow in their career while others have helped them academically. These examples demonstrate that mentorship varies from one pair to another and mentors mainly focus to accommodate their mentees needs. When asked about the guidelines and requirements of having a mentor, David Lerman, director of Student Success and Retention and coordinator for Mentorship Program, said that it is contingent upon the allocation of next years college budget. If the Mentorship Program receives funding for next year, they would match newly graduated high school, who intend to attend PVCC, over the Summer to be prepared for the Fall Semester. Therefore, when they start their first year at PVCC, each pair of students would already be matched with a mentor to make their transition easy, said Lerman. When asked about the significance and benefits of this program in their life, similar sentiments resonated among the mentees. For instance, Elizabeth Phan, who was a first year student at PVCC and had benefited from this program said, My mentor is Dr. Tamara Whyte, and she has been extremely helpful both academically and socially. Although I was nervous at first because I had never done mentorship before, but we instantly connected and had a lot in common. She also helped me to come out of my comfort zone by getting involved in clubs and on campus. This program has helped me grow as a person and has provided the essential tools to be successful. Similarly, Waheda Haidari, who was a first year PVCC student and utilized this program nodded in agreement. She said, My mentor has been a great help in my academic accomplishments and success at PVCC. Since my mentor is fluent in German, he has helped me tremendously with my German class. He has also been very helpful in regards to finding me internships and connecting me to people so I can build up my network. Later, Lerman added that this mentorship mutually benefits students and the faculty to expand their knowledge of each other. For instance, when students reminisce back to their college career and people who have helped them grow as a person, mentors are certainly mentioned. Mentors can have a tremendous impact on their students lives and help them be successful and overcome any constraints. This engagement with students in a non-academic environment also helps professors to learn more about their students and share their experience on a personal level. These engagements help both parties to develop deeper understandings of each other and mutually benefit. In the academic year 2019-2020, the mentorship program has changed their criteria and number of students they mentor. For instance, in the past two years, they were mentoring 120 students; whereas now it has reduced to 25 students. All of these mentees are enrolled as full-time students who are working on campus or are in the process of finding jobs. This is a new variation to the program which aims to help students both academically and socially. Page 5 Panther Pantry Feeds Hungry Students Ari Oxford, staff writer Food insecurity is an issue that many students face, so PVCC has tried to help alleviate this concern for PVCC students and their families. In M103, next to the Student Financial Resource Centre (SFRC), is the PVCC Panther Pantry. According to the PVCC website, the pantrys mission is The pursuit of knowledge is fueled by nutritious meals. Our mission is to ensure access to free, nutritious food for students that are needy and underserved. The pantry has snacks, basic ingredients like canned beans and fruit, and almost ready-to-eat meals like ramen. The pantry also addresses the issue of students not being able to afford nice clothes for interviews, so it also has shoes, button -down shirts, ties, blouses, and more. However, you cannot just walk in. The door to the pantry is locked, so you have to go next door to the SFRC and sign-in for access. Also, be aware that each household will only be allowed access twice a month. According to the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness, 48 percent of respondents reported food insecurity in the previous 30 days, including 22 percent with very low levels of food security that qualify them as hungry. The Panther Pantry hours of operation: Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday: 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Panther Pantry. Photography courtesy of PVCC Marketing Office Page 6 A New Perspective on the Constitution Cody Clark, assistant editor To celebrate Constitution Day, PVCCs One Book group invited Adeola Ogunkeyede and Jennifer Kwon to host a discussion about the Constitution. Kwon was unable to make it to the event as she needed to represent a client at the last minute. It was left to Ogunkeyede to discuss how she and her colleague use the Constitution and how it could be improved. Ogunkeyede earned her B.A. from Duke University in 2003 and her J.D. from Tulane University Law School in 2008. During her time at Tulane, she was a member of the Criminal Law Clinic, president of the Public Interest Law Foundation, and coordinator of the Street Law Program. Upon graduating from Tulane, she received several awards commending her work with the university and community. At the beginning of the brief lecture, Ogunkeyede said, I have a vantage point on the Constitution from the vantage point of a practitioner. During her time as a public defender and as the Legal Director of the Civil Rights and Racial Justice Program at the Legal Aid Justice Center (LAJC), Ogunkeyede saw the Constitution used by all parties involved in her cases. It was just as much a tool of justice as it was a tool for oppression. It was said that the Constitution makes many promises of quality. However, in its current form it still needs improvement according to Ogunkeyede The Constitution is not the only aspect of America that needs to evolve. American society and its values must also change before we will see improvement. Ogunkeyede used the Statue of Liberty as an example. While in public education the common teaching about the statue is that it was a welcoming beacon of hope for immigrants coming to the United States. While in reality there are many Americans who believe the statue of liberty is Teaching lessons about America that can be applied in their own countries, said Ogunkeyede. Another example used by Ogunkeyede was the current immigration policy at the Mexican border where children and adults are separated. Ogunkeyede related this process to slavery and how families of slaves were broken up. Constitution Day was the first of many One Book collaborations events. Information on upcoming events can be found at https:// libguides.pvcc.edu/thenewjimcrow/events. Legal Director Adeola Ogunkeyede. Photography by Cody Clark Page 7 The panel having a discussion on openings in the medical field. Photography by Matthew Minecci PVCC Hosts Local Medical Professionals Matthew Minecci, staff writer On Thursday, Sept. 26 at PVCC, a large gathering of hopeful students gathered together to hear from medical professionals. These three professionals, Camilla Washington, a clinical education team coordinator; Sarah Sutherden, a billing and coding manager; and Susan Kasbadi, a diagnostic medical sonographer, were interviewed by Andre Luck, the career supervisor at PVCC. Primarily talking about opportunities in the medical field, the speakers had an attentive audience, as well as an interactive one, receiving several interesting questions and giving in depth answers. When asked about the number of job openings in her field, Washington stated, quality over quantity in nursing. There were worries that automation may remove some of the job opportunities available, but it was also pointed out by the board that hopefully this automation will bring more jobs to places like coding work. If you were hoping to go into the medical field, there were a few things talked about during the meeting that you should know. First and foremost, the age requirements for the job is 18 years old. In addition, the workplace has a strict no tobacco policy, so smokers either need to quit or need not apply. If you were wondering how to apply for a particular job, simply go to the human resource website at UVA and search for whatever it is you are looking for. While internships are not available with the ultrasound community, its is a fast growing profession, that allows you to shadow a professional to learn more about the work they do. In addition, the billing and coding wing has internships available to choose from. Finally, clinical rotations at PVCC are required, so sign up for those now if you haven't already. Page 8 NASA Assistant Director Returns to PVCC Ari Oxford, staff writer Rick Davis, PVCC alumnus and assistant director of science and exploration at NASA, spoke to an Intro to Engineering class, at 10 a.m. in M833, and the broader PVCC community, at noon in M229, in two talks on Sept. 23 to over 45 community members. Davis started his first talk with how he went to UVA and got a bachelors of history, but after getting some post-college experience, he came back to PVCC to build foundational skills in math and engineering. He then went back to UVA to study aerospace engineering. He went on the talk about his early career teaching astronauts at NASA, his three and a half years working in Russia with our international partners in space exploration. Davis talked about how his joint background in history and engineering led him to his current position. In his presentation, Davis spoke about paradigms. He pointed out how Mars may look like Jorden but it is much more comparable to the peak of K2, in the Himalayas. He talked about how, as humans, we have gone on many exploratory missions that took three years, but a mission to Mars would be unlike any other. He addressed the challenges presented by Mars, such as weather that we cannot yet predict and high levels of radiation in space and on the Martian surface. He talked about how people on the frontiers of our extraterrestrial exploration need privacy, comfort, relaxation, and compatible crewmates to handle the extreme stress of such unfamiliar environments. Davis advised the students in the audience to screw schedule. He said to take as much time to complete a degree because taking time to work and make connections is more valuable than entering the workforce with a degree more quickly. He advised students to ask for 45 minutes. He suggested creating a list of interesting people in the area which you are interested in working, researching them so you have worthwhile questions to ask, then ask them for 45 minutes to talk. He said that those 45 minutes often turn into an hour and a half, but if you ask for an hour of someones time they will typically turn you down. He said to end those conversations with two questions; what else should I do? and who else should I talk to? Rick Davis speaks in M229 at PVCC. Photography by Ari Oxford Page 9 CRU Club Carnival Feeds PVCC Elizabeth Phan, staff writer Buttery popcorn, Chick-fil-A, and refreshing sodas were enjoyed at Cru Clubs Carnival. The event was held on the student terrace behind the Bolick Student Center on Sept. 18 from 1-4 p.m. The Cru Club, PVCCs Cru Christian Fellowship, hosted a wonderful event of games and food for the PVCC community. Groups of students lined up to grab their fresh popcorn and played cornhole. The Cru Club is passionate about sharing the joy of Jesus Christ and hopes to connect more people to him. According to the UVA Cru Clubs website, their mission is to educate curious minds about who Jesus Christ is. Jeff Simpson, a team leader for the Cru Club, said he hopes that students find community and the opportunity to connect with each other during difficult times during the school year. Cru is a non-profit organization that depends on funding from the community. The donations will go to student scholarships, outreaches, and supplies for ministry events. You can find their donation page at https://cruatuva.com/give/. In the future, Cru Club will be hosting a variety of events. Cru Club will be at the UVA Chapel from 8-9 p.m. and will host mens and womens bible studies several days during the week. The Cru Club meets every week on Wednesday in Room M835 at noon. Members of the Cru Club can expect uplifting prayer, a stronger connection with God, and music. On Sept. 27-29, Cru Club invited the community to gather together for their fall retreat where they establish a weekend of faith in hope to strengthen their relationship with God and each other. On their website, you can find more information on carpooling to church. They offer rides to Portico, Charlottesville Community Church, First Baptist on Park Street, Trinity Presbyterian, and Jefferson Park Baptist. To stay connected and up to date on other events, follow Cru Club on Instagram @pvcc_cru and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ cruatpvcc. Students enjoy a game of corn hole. Photography by Elizabeth Phan Page 10 The Beauty of Japanese Calligraphy Elizabeth Phan, staff writer A professional calligrapher taught PVCC students and faculty traditional Japanese calligraphy on Aug. 29 in the North Mall Meeting Room. Tons of curious students filled the room to watch as she performed calligraphy on traditional rice paper as tall as the ceiling. Japanese language students of Noriko Donahue edged closer to the artist to get a closer look. Calligraphy, also known as shodo or shuji, is a form of artistic handwriting of the Japanese language. It is considered to be difficult and beautiful. Calligraphy is done with a special bamboo brush dipped in ink. The paper used for calligraphy is also very Students at work. Photography by Elizabeth Phan important. It is made to prevent the ink from spilling over or smudging. to teach students how to do Japanese calligraphy. Students and faculty were able to practice five Each individual student was able to work with times and pick their favorite one to enter into a her one on one for an insightful experience. The competition. Whoever had the best handwriting, Japan club will hold similar events like this in the won a prize. future. The top three calligraphers from the group According to the Japan clubs bio on the won expensive Japanese figurines. The rest of the Piedmont website, they hope to bring Japanese group were able to pick a different prize. Two culture to Piedmont Virginia Community College Japanese students brought with them Japanese, by incorporating Japanese games, food, and anime designed folders and figurines for everyone tradition. You can contact Lydia Simmers, the to take home for free as their prize. Japan Club president, at Noriko Donahue, the Japanese professor at lcs2849@email.vccs.edu for any questions about PVCC, invited all her students and anyone joining Japan club. interested in Japanese calligraphy, to watch the Or you can contact Noriko Donahue event. The professional calligrapher lives in Japan at ndonahue@pvcc.edu for more information on and had flown all the way down to Charlottesville similar events in the future. Calligraphy Participants. Photography by Elizabeth Phan Page 11 Club Day Fall 2019 BSA Club. Photography by Cody Clark LGBT Club. Photography by Cody Clark Board Game Club. Photography by Deadra Miller Horticulture Club. Cru @ PVCC. Photography by Cody Clark Creative Writing Club. Photography by Cody Clark French Club. Photography by Cody Clark Dance Club. Photography by Cody Clark Page 12 History Club. Photography by Cody Clark Engineering Club. Photography by Cody Clark International Club. Photography by Deadra Miller German Club. Photography by Cody Clark Japan Club. Photography by Cody Clark Latin Club. Photography by Cody Clark PSLT Photography by Cody Clark Math Club. Photography by Cody Clark Page 13 Celebrating Pride 2019 in Charlottesville Abi Brand, staff writer Saturday, Sept. 14, Charlottesville concluded its eighth annual weeklong Pride festival celebrating the local LGBT+ community. Following the 50 year anniversary of the historical and revolutionary Stonewall riots, Charlottesville hosted yet another amazing week of fun and celebration and wrapped it all up with the Pride festival on Saturday. Included at the festival were booths filled by non-profit organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union, Planned Parenthood, and countless more. Caroline Weschler, a former PVCC student, went to Charlottesville Pride for the second year in a row. Weschler said, Pride just makes me really happy because everyone at pride is happy together, and I love that theres an event where we can all celebrate being gay and not be scared. The Pride Festival was held at the Sprint Pavilion on the Downtown Mall. Many children and adults attended Charlottesville Pride, most wearing bright, rainbow colors to represent the most common symbol of the LGBT community. Throughout the day, multiple performances took place on the Sprint Pavilion stage. From drag queens to local bands, the festival had enough to keep patrons entertained all day. Mia Smith, a current student and president of the LGBT club at PVCC, said, Pride to me means a collection of beautiful and bright people from all over my community. It means being in a family, being able to look at others faces and seeing myself in them. It's about feeling right and safe. Its about turning our struggles into a celebration of how amazing we are. Charlottesvilles annual Pride helps bring together people from all walks of life and recognize what makes every resident of Charlottesville so special. Banner at the entrance of Pride. Photography by Abi Brand Page 14 Latin America visits Charlottesville IX Art Park From above, at the Cville Sabroso event, attendees watch the Mexican Mariachi performance. Photography by Veronica Reyes Veronica Reyes, staff writer Latino representation sparkled in all the bold colors and flavors of various Hispanic cultures at the IX Art Park in Charlottesville on Saturday, Sept. 21. Dancers, bands, vendors, and Latino community members gathered together for an afternoon of dancing, eating, and unity over the special, individual cultural facets from the 33 countries of Latin America. As visitors entered with free admission to the event, an overwhelming amount of food trucks and vendors surrounded them. Attendees could find anything from tacos to traditional woven and leather goods. Standing there, guests were surrounded by individuals from all over Charlottesville, Central Virginia, and Latin America collectively enjoying the dancing performances and music. After 6 p.m., the sonorous, rich tone, unique to the romantic trumpet sounds a mariachi band, soared across the crowd. The butterfly effects of bold pink, green, orange, and yellow skirts from a Mexican group of dancers created a teeming atmosphere of awe and excitement from the cultural performance. One spectator noted, The entire event reminds me of Olvera Street in Los Angeles, a historic district dominated by Mexican culture. Another attendee stated, It felt like a block party. Very intimate and fun! Mexico was not the only country featured in the line of events. From 12-9 p.m., the schedule included performances from countries such as Guatemala, Colombia, and Bolivia. The Bolivian dance group Salay Tukuypaj wowed the crowd with their brilliant pink and cobalt blue garb. At 7 p.m., there was a parade of flags which showed onlookers which nations attendees were from and resulted in nationalistic cheers. From 7:30-9 p.m., the band named La Mquina de El Salvador, dominated the event as the pink and orange sunset on one of the last days of summer reflected on the shine of the guitars and microphones of the group. From there, the entire event was wrapped up in a final party where men, women, and children could enjoy the infectious rhythms of cumbia (a music style originating from Colombia) and several other classic music styles that originate from the streets of Latin American islands. The entire event appeared to have hundreds of participants and attendees. The hard-working vendors, performers, crew, and law enforcement developed another exciting and fun LatinAmerican festival for its seventh year. Next year, mark your calendars to attend what may become a much more popular staple of summer events in Charlottesville. For great authentic food, music, and goods, Cville Sabroso was a special way to wrap up the summer for Spanish communities and Central Virginia alike. Page 15 Gentlemen, Start Your Engines in Richmond Deadra Miller, online editor the American flag. At the beginning of every Richmond race, two to three parachutists jump in Sept. 21, 2019, was the second race of the with different flags attached to them. Right after Monster Energy Series Racing playoffs. This race they land, the National Anthem is performed by a solidifies 16 drivers positions in the playoffs. small band or sung by a musical artist. After the These drivers are from all over the United States; prayer is said, the most famous words in the second place holder in the playoffs is local to NASCAR are said by someone that is chosen Virginia. (11) Denny Hamlin, who drives for prior to the race date, Gentlemen, start your FedEx, is from Chesterfield, Virginia. The drivers engines. After those words are spoken the roar of in the playoffs are (18) Kyle Busch, (11) Denny the cars the roar of the engines blanketed the Hamlin, (19) Martin Truex Jr., (22) Joey Logano, track. (4) Kevin Harvick, (2) Brad Keslowski, (9) Chase Once all of the pre-race festivities are Elliott, (1) Kurt Busch (older brother to Kyle concluded, fans wait for the equipment to be Busch), (42) Kyle Larson, (88) Alex Bowman, broken down so that the cars can drive on the (20) Erik Jones, (12) Ryan Blaney, (24) William track. This includes the stage used for driver Byron, (10) Aric Almirola, (14) Clint Boyer, and introductions, and the vehicles used to display the (6) Ryan Newman. drivers to the spectators. Since this was the All of these drivers were top 16 drivers for the Federated Auto Parts 400 and Toyota is a major season that began in February and ends in sponsor in NASCAR, Toyota Tundras were used November. Their season leaves the winter months to transport the drivers around the track. for them to practice and improve their vehicles to This race is 400 laps around a mile and a half meet the requirements that are always changing. oval track which makes this track a short track The children and significant others of the drivers within the Monster Energy Series. Although there spend their days at the track as well. The teams are 400 laps in this race, my family and I ended make accommodations for the families by way of up leaving at lap 340 to beat the rush to get out of hearing protection because the cars are so loud. there. By the time we made it to our vehicle, The night of the race had beautiful weather, Martin Truex Jr. had won the race, which kept and fans could smell the exhaust coming off of him in the playoff standings. the cars and the stench of the fireworks that were As of Sept. 29, the Monster Energy Series set off when a professional parachutist brought in had just finished race three of the playoffs which was held in Concord, North Carolina, at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The standings have been brought down to 12 from 16 and the three races that will continue with 12 drivers are Dover, Delaware; Talladega, Alabama; and Kansas City, Kansas. Altogether, there are 12 races in the playoffs in the racing community. After Delaware, Alabama, and Kansas they go to Martinsville, Virginia, Fort Worth, Texas, for the AAA Texas 500 and ISM Raceway (formerly known as Phoenix Speedway) with eight top drivers. Finally, the series is down to four of the top 16 drivers at HomesteadMiami Speedway for the final race of the season, naming the 2019 Monster Driver Joey Logano #22. Photography by Deadra Miller Energy Cup Series winner. Page 16 Bang! Offers Cville a New Cultural Tradition Samuel Huff, staff writer the incredible convenience of a short 3-5 minute walk from the historic downtown mall, Just five years ago, if you had asked the making it the perfect option to be followed by typical American to point you in the direction a live show at the Jefferson Theatre, a movie at of an eccentric tapas restaurant, you would the Violet Crown Cinema, or an afternoon have probably gotten a puzzled glare. walk to experience the heart of However, over the last couple of years, tapas, Charlottesvilles unique culture. which are snack sized portions of ethnic From the incredibly tender short-rib ravioli cuisine, have become a cultural phenomenon. to the sweet potato gnocchi complete with Everyone is talking about this unique dining curry sauce and kale, the Asian-fusion menu is experience and Charlottesville has the perfect sure to ruin any other restaurant for you the place for you to get in on the exciting trend. following week. The expert bartender utilizes Resting just off the the flavors of rum, downtown mall, at 213 bourbon, tequila, 2nd Street Southwest, is and vodka, Bang!, Charlottesvilles blended with a unique tapas experience. variety of other While there is little to no exciting flavors, to designated parking, the craft over twenty Water Street parking exclusive martinis garage and the metered that will propel lot directly in front of the you to elite, restaurant serve as socialite status, adequate substitutes. right there at the As you approach the bar. Photo Courtesy of Taylor Liken renovated two story The incredible house from the street, tapas, which rotate your senses immediately become seasonally and typically range from $8 - $15 overwhelmed. Taking in the romantic per entree, matched with stylish martinis may ambiance of the hedge-trimmed patio becomes result in a higher bill than you would typically difficult as the enticing aromas lure you to the set aside for a night out, but the quality of the hostess who greets you with a friendly smile. food and service, will leave you more than The bottom floor flows with a strategic satisfied and ready to plan your next visit. For placement of tables and walkways while the a less pricey dining experience, however, much smaller upper floor maintains a more Bang! offers generous happy hour discounts casual vibe complete with low chairs and Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays from 5:30coffee tables perfect for first dates or one-on- 6:30 p.m. one meetings. With vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free The friendly staff will guide you through options, Bang! is a standout choice for any the menu and explain that each item you order group that you want to exclaim with joy. With is crafted to be shared by the table. The staff tapas exploding onto the scene and gaining a also ensures that your tapas experience is reputation for being a hip new trend, Bang! is authentic by bringing out each ordered item as proving to central Virginia that they are here to it is readily available. outlive the newest fad and provide If you are, in fact, planning a night out for Charlottesville with a special kind of dining you and that special someone, search no more. experience for a long time to come, and they The romantic atmosphere is outdone only by openly invite you to come be a part of the fun. Page 17 A Meat Lovers and Patriots Dream Matthew Minecci, staff writer In the town of Charlottesville, lies a restaurant that caters to not only those that enjoy America, but also enjoy one of its greatest exports, meat. The atmosphere is bright with that industrial look that so many restaurants seem to go for these days. Unlike other restaurants though, to spice things up, they have pictures of American heroes, large amounts of American military items, and most of all American flags everywhere. This is a restaurant that heavily leans towards the more patriotic folks in this great land. Stars and stripes are not the only thing they serve here. Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and finally 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, most people come here looking for their main draw, the delicious meat they serve. As the name suggests, they primarily serve barbeque items, and almost all of them are meat, although the fries in particular are notably good. Most of the prices range from $6 to $10, although the ribs can get up to $20 if you order 10 of them. The service is fast, and you can easily look into the kitchen over the front counter, where you can see cooks hard at work. Once a customer is served their food, it is up to them to put sauce on their meal if desired. Mission BBQ has a variety of bottles at each table where you can put as much sauce on your food as you like, with the added benefit of being able to quickly and easily control not only the amount, but the type. To top it off, they have staff that visit you at your table to ask if everything is up to standard, which is always nice. So in summary, the food is fast and hot, the condiments have variety and are easily accessible, and if you have ever been in the military, or are even just really patriotic, you will love the atmosphere. If youre a lover of meat, I would definitely recommend you check out Mission BBQ, as it is a paradise for the good old American country folks. You can find it at 3912 Lenox Ave, Charlottesville. It is open every day. Photography by Matthew Minecci Page 18 Perk Up Shines in the Eyes of Students Anandhu Shaji, staff writer Before you walk in through the front doors of the South Entrance at PVCC, your nose will be met by the smell of delicious food. Where is it coming from? Well it is from the campus restaurant Perk Up. I had the opportunity to try their burger with fries. There are few words to describe the experience. The burger with fresh lettuce, green pickles, melted cheddar cheese was a celebration of flavors in the mouth. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. If you are not a meat person, there is no need to worry. We have salads, veggie burgers, veggie wraps and much more for the vegetarians,'' said the friendly and smart staff member at Perk Up. Perk Up also has a coffee stand outside their doors where they brew many selections of fresh and tasty coffee. So if you want to get a nice cup of coffee in the morning or before class, then the Perk Up coffee stand is the place to go. Compared to many of the restaurants around Charlottesville, Perk Up is affordable for the students at PVCC. The burger with fries came out to $10. Overall, Perk Up is worth trying. Perk Up is open Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hidden Gem in the Heart of Cville: Pho Elizabeth Phan, staff writer Thai Cuisine & Noodle House may have some of the best Thai dishes, but what might surprise you is that they also take pride in serving traditional Vietnamese Pho. It might be a little confusing that a Thai restaurant is serving Pho, but trust me when I say that my father would be so upset to know that I loved it. Since Oct. 24, 2014, Thai Cuisine & Noodle House has been serving up traditional and authentic Thai and Vietnamese food. Located at 2005 Commonwealth Dr. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday at 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and then re-open again at 5-9 p.m.. Unfortunately, they close on Mondays. Many locals swarmed in for a relaxing and laid back dinner. Its walls decorated with local art, and across the restaurant, a football game played above the bar as the chef prepared my dinner. Pho, a Vietnamese favorite, is a noodle soup dish made from beef broth. It is served with a huge serving of Banh Pho, which is made out of rice, thinly sliced beef, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. The Pho was reasonably priced at $8.50 for a small portion or $10.50 for a larger portion. Be careful, though, because the small is still a very large helping. The soup was warm and savory and reminded me of home. Thai Cuisine & Noodle House serves up a four-page menu of gluten-free and dairy-free options. And if you are lactose intolerant like me, youll be glad to know that they have dairy free dessert options that are just as good as their Pho. Thai Cuisine & Noodle House left a wonderful first impression with very kind staff and welcoming owners. The open-style kitchen left me feeling excited about my dessert. Even Ivan Rekosh of ZoKoLo agrees that Thai Cuisine & Noodle House deserves the full rating for their dish. The Charlottesville 29 rated it as one of the best dishes to have been eaten back in 2016. If you are a Charlottesville local, Thai Cuisine & Noodle House is a must for any special occasion or night out with friends. Be sure to try out the chefs specials and be surprised at how delicious Thai and Vietnamese Cuisine can be. Page 19 Crozet Pizza Still Open After 42 Years Karli Turner, Staff Writer still contains the original room, still much unchanged from when Mr. and Mrs. Crum owned A man, grumpy and tapping his foot, waits in the business. line at Crozet Pizza. Impatiently, he leans into his The business is now the whole bottom half of wifes ear and whispers, We came all the way the cute red building; having taken the extra space from California for this. It better be good. from the video and bookstores that used to sit Minutes later, a friendly host greets them and sits next door. Crozet Pizza, which is located at the them by a window for a scenic view of downtown four-way intersection on Three Notched Road, Crozet. now has a bar and more, much needed, seating. Crozet Pizza was established in 1977 by the Behind the bar, Crozet Pizza also holds an event owners at the time, Bob and Karen Crum. room that is perfect for hosting large parties or Originally, the small, one-room pizza shop only events. Though the original menu can still be had five tables, and anyone who wanted one of found in the original building, the menu has these delicious pies, even those living hundreds of greatly expanded over the last few years. Added miles away from the establishment, had to call to the menu are a wide variety of salads, fries and/ days in advance to make reservations. Also, back or loaded fries ($10), burgers and sandwiches then, Mr. Crum made each pie himself using both ($10-$12), calzones ($14), and wings ($11), as him and his wifes secret recipes for their special well as many other options. dough and pizza sauce. Hours later, the now happy man and his wife In 2004, Bob and Karen Crum sold their thank their waiter for the excellent service. Then, business to their daughter Colleen Alexander and like so many before them, they exclaim, This is her husband Mike. Today, Crozet Pizza is very the best pizza Ive ever had! With bellies full, different from what it used to be. No longer is they head towards the door. pizza the only item on the menu, nor is it the To the left of the door to the original room, small one-room pizza shop it once was; though it there are pictures hanging on the wall. These pictures are of people not only from all over the U.S., but also from all over the world who have visited this pizza shop for the unique pizza options and flavors. Since so many people have come from all over to try this pizza, who is to say that it is not the best pizza in the world? Want to check out Crozet Pizza for yourself? Crozet Pizza is open every day of the week except on Tuesdays, starting Crozet Pizza. Photography by Karli Turner at 11:30 am. Page 20 Timberwood Tap House is Not Half Bad Photography by Dylan Cox Dylan Cox, staff writer A quintessentially quintessential American restaurant, Timberwood Tap House makes for a surprisingly good dinner. Upon entering the restaurant, one cannot help but assume that this is just another typical franchise with nothing special to offer. The dinner menu offers clich sounding dishes such as the Clint Eastwood or Al Capone burger. Such names disheartened me, thinking that I had stumbled into another Chilis or TGI Fridays. I couldnt have been more wrong. Dinner starts at 4 p.m., and the menu is surprisingly small. I ordered a sweet tea and the Goat Cheese Custard for an appetizer. The service was polite, quick to serve, and the crowd was sizable which boded well. Once I was served the appetizer, I was surprised that it didnt look or taste like something from those other carbon-copy chains. Since I was dead set on writing a negative review, I inspected that dip and found nothing wrong. In fact, I practically inhaled the dish and lusted terribly for another bite. For the entre, I wanted something that would punch me in the face, something that would be so bad that I would have to ask for my money back. I ordered the Chuck Norris burger which came with mushrooms, onions, swiss cheese, pickles, coleslaw, and all the typical dressings. Though I cannot stand red onions, I was disappointed that my taste buds fell in love with this burger. It was greased to perfection and assaulted my mouth in all the right ways. Though I did not buy the Steak Frites or New York strip, because I am a poor college student, I was delighted with my outing, only having spent around thirty dollars. If you are a masochist like me, looking for a complete disappointment, dont go here. You will keep coming back and keep tipping generously. Timberwood Tap House is located at 245 Merchant Walk Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22902. They are open every day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., except Sunday where they open at 10 a.m.. Page 21 Local Restaurant Firefly welcomes Everyone Ari Oxford, staff writer If you are looking for a new place to take the family or some friends for dinner, consider Firefly. Besides the benefits of supporting a small, local business, it is also a casual and inclusive environment. Firefly has pool, foosball, pinball, and plenty of board and card games to keep kids or adults entertained. Besides the games, they also have a bar and sit down dining. Their menu boasts lots of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at a typical dinner price. They also do all of their frying in sunflower seed oil, so if anyone in your party has peanut allergies, they have plenty of safe options. Firefly also has several alcoholic and nonalcoholic drink options. Bar late Sunday night. Photograph by Ari Oxford Just be aware that if you order food, you might get more than you can eat, and it would be a shame to miss out on and delicious. the almost completely gluten-free dessert menu. Some other fun facts: Firefly is Cville Pride Though, I highly suggest ordering food because certified as a Safe Space, so the staff is trained on everyone at my table said that the food was hot how to make sure everyone is safe and comfortable; they are a certified Green Restaurant; they have a gender-neutral bathroom with a changing table; they are also breastfeeding friendly; and they have a few comfy couches for those who just want to hang out. So, if you are looking for a new place to try, Firefly might be the perfect place. Hours: Monday Thursday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday Saturday: 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Family planning at the pool table. Photograph by Ari Oxford Address: 1304 East Market St Charlottesville, Virginia 22902 Page 22 The Jefferson: Current Music in an Old Setting Abi Brand, staff writer Located on the downtown mall, The Jefferson Theatre serves as an emblem for Charlottesvilles cool downtown culture. Once a vivacious movie theatre, this concert and event venue now holds some of the most diverse bands to come to Charlottesville. The Jefferson holds all music genres, from rap and country, reggae and rock. The venue is a smaller size, which allows fans to get a more intimate experience with the bands. Ticket prices are extremely affordable, and the acoustics throughout the venue are great. With seating up and downstairs and a wheelchair lift, the Jefferson is accessible for everyone. Sloped flooring makes anywhere in the theatre a great seat. The interior of the theatre still has remains of its original features, giving an old time feel to any show. The adjacent taco restaurant, Cinema Taco, allows you to grab some food before the show without leaving the venue. A few weeks ago, I was able to catch Wallows and Remo Drive at the theatre. The show was absolutely incredible and full of energy. There wasnt a body in the venue that wasnt bouncing up and down. After the show, I was able to talk to Sam Becht, drummer of Remo Drive, who said how impressed he was with Charlottesville. Charlottesville had this culture this culture and vibe I never knew existed there! Way more character than I expected! When asked if there was anything notable about the Jefferson, Sam said, The venue is maybe the tallest one Ive ever played in...super high ceiling! Knowing that Sam is a professional musician, I was curious what he thought of the acoustics of the Jefferson. It had great sound! Sam said. Some current upcoming shows at the Jefferson include: Oct. 26: Mason Ramsey Oct. 28: Of Montreal w/ Locate S,1 Nov. 2: Carbon Leaf w/ Will Overman Nov. 3: Alejandro Arnada is Scarypoolparty Nov. 4: Hippo Campus w/ The Greeting Committee Wallows performing a sold-out show at the Jefferson Theater on Sept. 6, 2019 Photography by Abi Brand Page 23 Classifieds Dont miss these upcoming free One Book Program Events Jim Hingeley on mass incarceration and criminal justice reform Oct. 10, 12:30-1:45 p.m. North Mall Meeting Room Documentary: Color Line of Scrimmage Oct. 16, noon, M229 Film showing: Thirteenth Nov. 13, 12-2 p.m. North Mall Meeting Room Students attending these events will be entered in a raffle for a free class. Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editor Cody Clark Online Editors Jessica Adkins Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Abi Brand Cody Clark Dylan Cox Aleena Haidari Samuel Huff Deadra Miller Matthew Minecci Ari Oxford Elizabeth Phan Veronica Reyes Anandhu Shaji Karli Turner Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com September 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College Andrew Renshaw Selected as Dean of Student Services Deadra Miller, online editor Dr. Andrew Renshaw, a UVA Graduate and previous dean of business, mathematics and technologies, is now the new dean of student services at PVCC as of June 1. Renshaw brings a unique skill set to the Student Services office from his previous experiences in student services and an interim academic dean here at PVCC. These past experiences help him to understand the importance of collaboration with other areas of the college, PVCCs Director of Advising and Transfer Kemper Steele said. Renshaws role is to work with students that have circumstances that the other advisors cannot work out without the extra help. Renshaw had to go through a rigorous hiring procedure to receive this position; he was not spared from this process. Read more about PVCCs clubs inside pages 6-17 Renshaw shared some tips that can be used by PVCC students. After a student applies to PVCC, they are given a general block schedule based upon answers that were given in the application. If the student chooses to keep that predetermined schedule or change it depends on that specific student. Student Services professionals are there to guide the student into a program that best fits their interests. Full-time students are more likely to succeed with this predetermined schedule. If a student wants their parents involved with their school schedule, they need to sign a FERPA form. Renshaw has smoothly transitioned into the new role as the dean of students quite well. He has a great eye for improving efficiency with processes that are done within the division without losing sight of student success, Steele said. See Renshaw on page 4 In This Issue Photo courtesy of Andrew Renshaw. PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 EAB Navigate -pg. 4 One Book -pg. 5 Club Info -pgs. 6-17 Memorial -pg. 18 Reviews -pg. 19 Classifieds -pg. 20 DATES TO REMEMBER Club Day * Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Main Building Smart Start To College * Sept. 12, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Writing Center Classroom One Mic Stand * Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Black Box Theatre Gallery Exhibition Opening * Sept. 13, 5-7 p.m., Dickinson Art Gallery In-form: Contemporary Improvisation * Sept. 13, 6-7 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Adeola Ogunkeyede Constitutional Day / One Book Speaker * Sept. 16, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Get Up! Get Movin! Get Involved! * Sept. 17, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Writing Center Classroom Financial Aid Workshop * Sept. 18, 4:30-5:30 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Free Movie Friday: Amazing Grace * Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Theatre Theatre Of the Oppressed Lab * Sept. 21, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dickinson Black Box Theatre Tom Teasley: The Adventures of Prince Achmed^ Sept. 22, 3-4:30 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Theatre NASA: Humans-to-Mars Discussion * Sept. 23, 12-1 p.m., Auditorium M229 One Book Speaker: Understanding and Coping with Stereotype Threat * Sept. 25, 12-1 p.m., Auditorium M229 *Free Event ^Student Vouchers Available Editors Note Jessica Adkins, online editor The first year of college can be a very stressful time in ones life. That was definitely the case for me. I was up to my neck in work and felt like I had no escape. It was not halfway through the semester, and I had already stopped going to classes because my mental health was deteriorating quickly. During that period of time, I found the Journalism I class. I figured I had a small interest in becoming a journalist so why not take a class that would help me figure out if I actually enjoyed it or not. When I began taking the course, I figured I would not be writing as much as I would be listening to lectures about how to write a proper article. I was completely mistaken. Within the first week of class, I was already writing an article. Now, I have always enjoyed writing, but this class was almost an escape from my chaotic first year. I could have been in the grumpiest of moods and as soon as I walked through that door, I was happy. It was my safe space. I would recommend taking Journalism or joining The Forum club to anyone who has an interest in writing about what happens in the community, whether it be school or local. Even if you are not sure if you want to go into the field of journalism, the class is definitely worth taking. If you find that the class times do not coincide with your schedule, be sure to sign up for emails about when The Forum Club meets. The Journalism class, English 121, starts on Sept. 10 from 2-3:45 p.m. in room D106 in the Dickinson Building. For more information about The Forum Club or the Journalism course, contact Dr. Tamara Whyte at twhyte@pvcc.edu. Page 2 Student Government Association News Page 3 Renshaw, continued from page 1 Renshaw is flourishing in his new position, and he is having fun while doing so. Working with a wide range of students keeps him up to date with the changes that come with the programs PVCC provides. If there are any questions with admissions or advising, please go and schedule an appointment with the front desk staff by calling (434) 9616581 or stop by the Admissions and Advising office in the main building on campus. Finding Your Way with EAB Navigate Veronica Reyes, staff writer attendance record in order to be more involved throughout the entirety of the course. They can PVCC is avidly looking for ways to bring also view reminders about important class academic success and organization to improve enrollment and drop information every semester. student life. You may have noticed the Navigate Lerman explains, As we progress, students Student link on your MyPVCC Dashboard or will be able to use features that will allow them to have already received messages from faculty plan courses semester by semester in advance. through EAB Navigate. The feature about student majors allows students However, EAB Navigate is so much more to investigate more information about what kinds than a message board; Navigate is a new VCCS of careers are possible with their major. tool being used to gear students towards academic EAB Navigate is all about giving students readiness throughout the semester. more access and will readily prepare them for Spearheading the utilization of EAB Navigate future course selections. This new tool in is Director of Student Success and Retention MyPVCC will be essential to helping students David Lerman. He said right now Navigate is better understand their major and degree being rolled out in phases across the VCCS and requirements as they progress through PVCC. also at PVCC so different features are being Imagine not having to review SIS and the course turned on as we have them ready for requirement documents all at once when planning implementation. out your classes for next semester. While students Students can continue to expect messages sent can still depend on the hardworking advising by faculty about their course progress and department, EAB Navigate will give students across Virginia insight into their major and even the prospects ahead. Go ahead and take a look at your profile on Navigate just to see how simple and easy course planning will be. Soon enough, students will also be able to review course materials and textbooks as well as make appointments and meetings with faculties. EAB Navigate is soon to make student life at PVCC easier as a new platform that organizes all the facets of academic progress and planning. Learn about it now to be well-equipped for the future A Screenshot of EAB Navigate Student. changes coming soon. Page 4 The One Book and The New Jim Crow Cody Clark, assistant editor the right to vote and employment discrimination are now acceptable as long as someone is labeled a felon. The first One Book event of the semester will be A Common Cause: Unifying Advocacy Efforts Beyond the Constitution. The event will be a talk given by Adeola Ogunkeyede and Jennifer Kwon from the Legal Justice Aid Center and is currently scheduled for Sept. 16 at 12-1 p.m. in room M229. More events are planned later this semester including a movie night organized by the Black Student Alliance. Learn more at www.pvcc.edu/ student-services/library/one-book-program. Community engagement has always been a top priority for PVCC, and the One Book program does just that. Each spring, students vote for that following falls one book. This past spring, students had the choice of So Youve Been Publicly Shamed, Radium Girls: The Dark Story of Americas Shining Women, and, the winner, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. Previous One Book winners include Breaking Night: Homeless to Harvard, The Circle, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Sixth Extinction, and Hidden Figures. Each book in the One Book program is meant to bring the community together to talk about the themes and issues discussed in the book. Director of Library Services Crystal Newell said, The One Book Program at Piedmont Virginia Community College is an institution-wide initiative whose goal is to bring together students, faculty, staff, and members of the community to read the same book and take part in activities inspired by the text. Once a book has been chosen, it is left to the community to further explore it. This year, PVCC gave out 750 free copies of the book. Professors have the option of including the book as a part of their courses and clubs work to host events at PVCC. The current one book, The New Jim Crow, discusses how there is still racial discrimination in the United States today. Even though it is socially unacceptable to discriminate against someone based on race, the criminal justice system bypasses this by labeling people as felons. With the label of felon, all forms of The New Jim Crow. Photography by Cody Clark discrimination such as denial of Page 5 PVCC Student Club Information Adult Student Life Club The Anime Club welcomes anyone interested in Japanese animation, comics and music. The group focuses on new animations, while leaving room for the classics. They meet on Fridays from 3-5 p.m. in M155. For more information, contact club advisor Noriko Donahue, ndonahue@pvcc.edu. The mission of the PVCC Adult Student Life Club is to provide support and engagement opportunities that appeal to PVCC adult students. The PVCC Adult Student Life Club provides a forum for adult students to meet as peers, plan activities and gain resources meaningful to their life goals. The PVCC Adult Student Life Club addresses issues relevant to adult students, including how to juggle work, family and college. For more information, contact McCalahan, dmcclanahan@pvcc.edu. Art Club/Film Series Denise American Sign Language Club (ASLC) A linguistics and culture club focusing on the Deaf world, particularly the use of ASL. The club works to expand its members knowledge, and vocabulary, through the usage of ASL during meetings, as well as hosting guest speakers. Beginners are welcome, as are fluent signers. Deaf and Hard of Hearing students are especially encouraged to join. For more information, contact the club adviser, Susan Hannifan shannifan@pvcc.edu. Anime Club The Art Clubs mission is to support student artists by sponsoring fun, art-oriented events. The club sponsors a variety of art-related events like the annual Day of the Dead Candy-Thon (on Halloween), the Film Series, artists workshops and so much more. The first Free Movie Friday of the semester will be Amazing Grace on Sept 20th at 7:30 p.m. in the Dickinson Auditorium. For more information, contact Faculty Adviser Beryl Solla (bsolla@pvcc.edu Page 6 Board Game Club The Board Game Club at PVCC meets every Tuesday afternoon from 3-6 p.m. on the third floor of the Dickinson Building. Members play a wide variety of games ranging from card games to more involved games such as war games and beyond. Contact Faculty Adviser Bruce Glassco at bglassco@pvcc.edu for more information. Brony Club Black Student Alliance BSA members work together to cultivate leadership, stimulate cultural and educational awareness and contribute service to the College community, the local African-American community and the larger multicultural community and society. The organization welcomes participation by all who support this mission. For more information, please contact the Faculty Adviser, Justin Wert (jwert@pvcc.edu). PVCCs Brony Club is for those who share a common interest in the show My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. Club members try to exemplify the characteristics of a good person that the series encourages: honesty, generosity, compassion, optimism, devotion and leadership. Each meeting focuses on one of these characteristics, and members join in activities once a week including watching the show, enjoying fan content, fundraisers and service projects. They strive to show that this club can make a mark at PVCC. Their goal is to be a place for people to feel like they belong with no Page 7 judgment. The club meets each Monday from 12:00 to 12:45 in room M155. For more information, contact the club Advisor Michael Ferero, mferero@pvcc.edu. Creative Writing Club (Writers Unite) For more information, please contact club adviser Andr Luck (aluck@pvcc.edu). Creative Writing Club allows your imagination to roam freely through the stroke of a pen, surrounded by those who share an interest in writing. Every year, the club produces the schools literary magazine The Fall Line, the 600word horror story contest and a day of fun activities for The National Day on Writing. Anyone can come to our meetings. We do some writing, talk about writing, and encourage writing among ourselves. It is a place where people can learn about creative writinglow stakes and friendly, said Jennifer Koster, the adviser. The club meeting time will be set after the colleges Club Day. For more information, contact Jenny Koster at jkoster@pvcc.edu. Cru (Christian Fellowship) Cru is a Christian group at PVCC that welcomes all students. They are focused on building a strong, inclusive community, providing opportunities to grow in the knowledge of the Bible and God, as well as building the faith of members and non-members alike. Cru offers retreats, conferences, Bible studies, and other social events to help connect students to the community. They meet during College Hour (121) in room M835 every Wednesday. Cybersecurity Club The Cybersecurity Club at Piedmont Virginia Community College is a faculty led student organization that promotes cybersecurity through education and outreach programs within the local community. The Cybersecurity Clubs main purpose is to provide students who are interested in cybersecurity the opportunity to increase their knowledge, demonstrate their skills, and advance their careers. Meeting twice a month, members of the Cybersecurity Club discuss and practice hands-on advanced topics to develop career-building experience in network security, digital forensics, system penetration testing, and secure application programming. Community outreach events will allow Cybersecurity Club members to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through informational presentations, publishing research articles, assisting in upgrading and repairing computers, and providing local businesses with computer, networking, and cybersecurity consulting services. We will meet the first and third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in room M173. For more information, contact Seweryniak (rseweryniak@pvcc.edu). Richard Page 8 Dance Club The PVCC Dance Club is a fun way for the PVCC community to enjoy all forms of dance with no experience necessary just a love of moving! This club provides students with many dance opportunities throughout the year, including free technique classes, choreography, performance opportunities, and much more! For more information, contact Faculty Adviser Brad Stoller, bstoller@pvcc.edu. Drama Club in making, creating, or working on interesting projects. Students will have the opportunity to learn many valuable skills while working on interesting projects and participating in a social environment of like-minded students. The Forum The Forum, PVCCs newspaper, provides a voice for the student body. The Forum offers students the opportunity to report their news and share their ideas while also learning the fundamentals of journalistic experience. Faculty Adviser Tamara Whyte said, We welcome any level of commitment or skill. The Forum meets once a month at varied times depending on student scheduling. The first meeting is Wednesday, Sept. 18, from noon to 12:45 in M174. Website: www.piedmontforum.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/PVCCForum The Drama Club is for students interested in any aspect of theatre, including film. Drama club fosters interest in live theatre through cosponsorship of major theatre productions and through production of smaller theatre offerings, as well as by encouraging participation of students both as audience members and performers/ technicians. Twitter: @PVCCForum Instagram: PVCCForum For more information, contact Faculty Adviser Brad Stoller, bstoller@pvcc.edu. Engineering/Makers Club The PVCC Makers Club is designed to gather PVCC students of any degree who are interested Page 9 French Club Graphics Club The Graphics Club hosts the Graphics Club Hour, where they invite speakers, hold workshops, present movies, and work in creative teams on special, real-world projects. The Graphics Club is geared for CSC Graphic Design Program students, but is open to all students interested in or experienced in all things related to design. For more information on the Graphics club, contact the Faculty Adviser, Aaron Miller, Amiller@pvcc.edu. HOPE @ PIEDMONT The French Club is dedicated to bringing about a greater appreciation for the French language and culture. To this end, the main mission of the club is to aid students in their learning of French, as well as to provide an environment for them to enjoy different aspects of French culture. No prior knowledge of French is needed, and native speakers are encouraged to join. For information about the French Club, contact the Faculty Adviser Kris Swanson (kswanson@pvcc.edu). German Club The purpose of German Club is to promote knowledge of and interest in German language, history and culture and to provide a relaxed setting where students can pursue this interest. Members can engage in various activities such as watching German movies, practicing their speaking skills in German, playing German board games, etc. In addition, they usually organize one or two events each semester. For more information. Contact the faculty adviser, Patricia Jassmann, pjassmann@pvcc.edu Need a listening ear? Hope is a team of student volunteers dedicated to helping other students experiencing any kind of emotional problems. Recognizing that students often feel most comfortable talking with friends about life issues, the Peer Mentors receive extensive training on how to help other students. They are not therapists, but act as friends who are knowledgeable about the kinds of emotional issues affecting students and campus resources. e to make a difference at PVCC by giving hope to students We want to show them there is *hope* and options just outside of the classroom. Our Page 10 focus is to educate and empower students, while also providing a safe place to come and be supported! Our Mission is clear: to provide hope, knowledge, and support for every student who needs it; and to be a light to anyone standing in the darkness. For today, for tomorrow, for the future, we are HOPE @ PIEDMONT! International Club For more information, contact Jackie Fisher at jfisher@pvcc.edu Horticulture & Environmental Club The International club is a service and social club designed to bring together PVCC students from other countries with the PVCC community. The international club hosts many events, including potlucks, picnics, bowling excursions, trips and more. For more information, contact the faculty adviser, Irina Timchenko, itimchenko@pvcc.edu. In 2007, PVCCs Horticulture & Environmental Club was formed to provide students and community members with an organic garden to learn about environmentally-sound horticulture and sustainable practices. Their current project is an organic garden for use as a practical learning platform for environmentally-sound horticulture. The founding of an organic vegetable garden encourages more interest for other students, faculty, staff and the community to learn and put in practice environmentally-healthy horticulture. The excess food that is produced by the garden will find its way into the local food stream of the hungry in the community. As a club they are also interested in encouraging sustainable practices both on our campus and the Colleges service region. More information can be found on their website: http://pvcchorticulture.wordpress.com Email adviser David Lerman, dlerman@pvcc.edu, for further information. Investment Club The Investment Club is one of the oldest clubs on PVCCs campus. Its mission is to help students improve their knowledge of the economy and Page 8 market of our country. Visit their website: www.facebook.com/pvccinvestmentclub. For more information, contact the Faculty Adviser: Mahmood Moghimzadeh, mmoghimzadeh@pvcc.edu. Page 11 Japan Club LGBTQA Club The Japan Club aims to bring a piece of Japanese culture to PVCC by playing Japanese games, by indulging in some Japanese food, by providing insight into Japanese society and tradition, and by bringing people who are interested in Japan together. On top of all this, we might, just maybe, have a little bit of fun along the way! They meet on Tuesday, 4:30pm-5:30pm at M174 (every other week). The LGBTQA club works to foster a sense of community between all PVCC students and to increase awareness of the lives and issues faced by people with diverse sexualities and gender identities. They participate in outreach to the LGBTQA community at large and work to create a safe atmosphere with PVCC and surrounding communities. For more information about the Japan club, contact the club Adviser, Noriko Donahue at ndonahue@pvcc.edu. Contact faculty advisers Barbara bheyl@pvcc.edu, and Renee reves@pvcc.edu for more information. K-Club Math Club (Mu Alpha Theta) Heyl, Eves, The K-Club serves as a gathering place for those appreciating Korean culture. The club fosters a welcoming environment through shared interest in K-pop, Korean films, and the like. The club hosts numerous events, including K-Club Day and participates in others such as International Foods Day. For more information, contact the club advisor, Todd Platts, tplatts@pvcc.edu Latter-day Saints Fellowship The goal of the Latter-day Saints (LDS) Club is to seek gospel understanding in a scholarly setting and search for the light that comes from becoming acquainted with the lessons of the scriptures. The club endeavors to share the peace that is experienced during the study of scriptures. For more information, contact the club adviser, Andrew Renshaw at renshaw@pvcc.edu. The Math Club at PVCC is for those who enjoy math and want to share that fun with others. The club hosts math-inspired events at PVCC and explores the fun side of math during club meetings. The Math Club contains PVCCs Chapter of Mu Alpha Theta (), a subset of the club which is the mathematics honor society. Members of the honor society are eligible to wear s graduation honor cords. Page 12 For more information, contact club advisers Karen Overman (koverman@pvcc.edu) and Justin Storer (jstorer@pvcc.edu). Music Club The Music Club is a place where people who share a love for music gather together to play music in jam sessions at The Maxwell Theater (Black Box) in the Dickinson building or just to discuss their appreciation of all types of music. Each school year concludes with a student concert which invites all Music Club members and students involved in applied lessons to perform for the PVCC community. For more information, contact club adviser Dr. Brianne Little, blittle@pvcc.edu. Pagans and Wiccans Society (PAWS) walks, assistance to local and national victims of natural disasters, environmental activism and many other service initiatives. Academic standards must be met to be eligible for membership. At the beginning of Fall and Spring semester, the names of eligible students are submitted to PTK National Headquarters. PTK then invites students to join and issues them a unique code via email that can be used to complete online registration at ptk.org. More information is available on the club website: https://www.pvcc.edu/academics/honorsprograms/phi-theta-kappa. Faculty Advisers: brobinson@pvcc.edu kdecker@pvcc.edu. Bruce Robinson, and Kit Decker, Piedmont Student Launch Team The Pagans and Wiccans Society (PAWS) seeks to be a safe space for those of non-Abrahamic religions within the Piedmont community. Meetings are casual and open to everyone so long as they are respectful. For more information, please contact club adviser Colum Lecky, cleckey@pvcc.edu People Empowering People (PEP) Club The People Empowering People (PEP) Club serves as a voice for all students in eliminating barriers of perceptions, ignorance, attitude and any other barrier which people with disabilities encounter. We shall do this by raising awareness and providing education about disabilities and disability issues. For more information, contact the club adviser Susan Hannifan, shannifan@pvcc.edu. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the leading international honor society for two-year colleges. PVCCs chapter is officially named Alpha Epsilon Tau. An integral component of PVCC's PTK chapter is community service through participation in toy and food drives, charity The Piedmont Student Launch Team was created to bring together a diverse group of PVCC students who share the desire to build insanely high-powered rockets and compete in NASAs Student Launch Initiative. The club provides a unique opportunity for interesting social interaction, combined with personal and career development, all while having a great time building rockets! Faculty Adviser: ygoddard@pvcc.edu Yana Goddard, Website: http://www.piedmontlaunch.org/ Page 13 Piedmont Rotaract Club The Piedmont Rotaract Club is a service club that is part of the Rotary International network of professionals working together. The club meets on Wednesdays from 12-1 p.m. in room 175. Rotaract Club members will: Plan and lead community service projects Develop leadership skills through networking with local Rotary Club members Interact with service-minded people Make new friends and have fun! Club Adviser: mrushfinn@pvcc.edu Miriam among students, and enrich students social experiences through club sponsored events for the student body. We connect with the community through holding fundraisers, social activities, volunteering, donating our time and efforts, and much more! If you have any questions, feel free to contact our advisor, Dr. Michael Rahilly, mrahilly@pvcc.edu Radiography Club Rushfinn Pottery Club The Pottery Club offers a creative outlet for students enrolled in the ceramics courses and those who love art. In this club, students have the opportunity to hone their skills with pottery clay and make them manifest in works of art. This artisan club nurtures the skills already gained and develops those yet to be mastered. The Pottery Club meets in the Dickinson building. For more information on the Pottery Club, contact Tom Clarkson at tclarkson@pvcc.edu. Psychology Club The Radiography Club at PVCC strives to maintain the highest level of excellence in their clinical and didactic curriculums as well as providing the utmost quality in patient care. The Radiography Club of Piedmont Virginia Community College will become a network of Radiography students assisting each other to ensure success in their future careers. It is their mission to perform at the highest ethical and professional standards set forth by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Code of Ethics. Through their actions, they will increase awareness of the Radiography field to Piedmont Virginia Community College as well as the community at large. For more information on this club and the radiography program, contact Faculty Adviser nwinkler@pvcc.edu. Nicole Winkler at Science Club The PVCC Psychology Club is a student run organization that seeks to expand students knowledge of all things related to psychology. The goal of the club is to increase understanding in the field of psychology, facilitate interaction The PVCC Science Club aims to promote science in our community by sharing how science applies to the real world, celebrating the creative nature of science, and making science more accessible and inclusive. All are welcome. The Science Club Page 14 meets the first Monday of each month at noon in K130 (the conference room on the first floor of the Keats Science Building). For more information, contact Faculty Adviser Anne Allison at aallison@pvcc.edu. Sonography Club Smash Club PVCC's Smash Club is for those who share a common interest in the video game Super Smash Bros. Club members meet to play and discuss the video game in a friendly and supportive environment where one can test their skills and make new friends. Each meeting focuses has several games that are up and running and can be played. We strive to have a competitive yet friendly area where folks can meet and play. For more information, contact club advisor Michael Ferero, mferero@pvcc.edu. SNAP Club (Student Nurse Association at PVCC) The Student Nurse Association at PVCC (SNAP) is an organization created by PVCC student nurses. They strive to support nursing students on their journey and promote an atmosphere of professional collaboration and academic excellence. They host orientation sessions for onboarding students, promote events that outreach to the community and work to boost morale of students. Through SNAP, nursing students can build an encouraging network between themselves and also serve others. The Sonography Clubs mission is to increase awareness of our field in the community at large and the college community. It is the clubs purpose to mentor fellow students and to encourage professional development and ethics with the common goal of providing quality patient care and imaging. Staff Adviser Lisa Burrington describes a typical Sonography Club meeting: Students may determine how they will raise funds and plan for that. In the past, students have arranged tutoring meetings and have arranged to have guest speakers. For more information, contact club Adviser Lisa Burrington at lburrington@pvcc.edu. Spanish Club (Club de Espaol) Page 15 administration. SGA represents the rights, interests, and concerns of the student body to college officials while promoting an effective communication network between students, faculty, and staff. As a council for student ideas and concerns, the SGA works in conjunction with the College to improve student quality of life by planning, supporting, and running several student events. The SGA also encourages the establishment of new clubs. Learn more about the SGA on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pvccstudentgov The Spanish Club meets on a weekly basis to chat in Spanish, share food and music, watch films, play games such as loteria or Manzanas con manzanas, hear occasional presentations, make crafts such as papel picado or cascarones, meet visitors from other countries, and organize club events such as visits to local restaurants, the Casa Bolvar at U.Va., or a local salsa class. Students of all levels from novices to native speakers are welcome to attend. Student Veterans of America To learn more, contact the Faculty Advisers Kit Decker (kdecker@pvcc.edu) or Jorge GrajalesDiaz (jgrajalesdiaz@pvcc.edu). Student Government Association (SGA) Student Veterans of America provides students who are veterans or active service members and their families with the resources, support and advocacy needed to meet their education and career goals while at PVCC and following graduation. The organization participates in and organizes projects, events and activities and provides a social group to help veterans transition to life on campus and PVCC Student Government Association members in the community. For more information about SVA club, please contact club Adviser Jackie Fisher at jfisher@pvcc.edu. Ultimate Frisbee Club The Student Government Association (SGA) of Piedmont Virginia Community College is the primary organization for representing the interests of all students to the faculty, staff, and Led by team Captain Noah Borgerson, the Ultimate Frisbee Club meets on Fridays at 2 p.m. The Ultimate Frisbee Club is one of the longest Page 16 running sports clubs currently on campus, if not the longest. Staff adviser, John Gulley had much to say about the club, including reports of heaven shining its light down upon club members, perhaps explaining the clubs lasting appeal. If youre interested in joining, look up and join the PVCC Ultimate Facebook site, said Gulley. The club is co-ed. All are welcome. leading a vegan lifestyle and its positive effects on the environment, health, and animal welfare. Members volunteer at animal sanctuaries, take tours of vegan and vegetarian-run businesses, host restaurant outings and movie screenings, and engage in activism in and around the PVCC campus community. For more information, contact Elsa Spencer at espencer@pvcc.edu. Volunteer Club Contact Club Adviser jgulley@pvcc.edu. John Gulley at Vegan Club Interested in helping out the local community or making the campus a better place? Join the Volunteer Club. Specific activities will be determined by the members of the club and can range from on campus functions (charity drives) to off campus initiatives (community events). For more information, contact Faculty Adviser Todd Platts at tplatts@pvcc.edu. Women in STEM Club Veganism is a way of living that seeks to exclude, as far as possible and practical, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing and any other purpose. - The Vegan Society The Vegan Club at PVCC is for anyone interested in veganism! The club explores the benefits of The Women in STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) Club provides social support and STEM-focused discussion and activities for students interested in STEM fields. The club has collaborated with other student clubs to sponsor discussions about career pathways in STEM. For more information, contact the faculty adviser: Joanna Vondrasek at jvondrasek@pvcc.edu. Page 17 Palmyra Post Office Dedicated to Fallen Sailor Deadra Miller, online editor This past spring, on March 23, the Palmyra Post Office was renamed the U.S. Navy Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby Post Office thanks to a bill passed by Rep. Tom Garrett and signed by President Donald Trump on July 24, 2017. On June 17, 2017, Fluvanna native Gunners Mate Seaman Dakota Rigsby was aboard the USS Fitzgerald in the Sea of Japan when a devastating accident occurred. Seven sailors of different ranks were killed during a collision with a Filipino cargo ship. Rigsbys parents influenced his decision to serve his country. His father is a U.S. Army veteran and his mother has deep ties with Lake Monticello Rescue Squad. Rigsby played football, became a firefighter, and signed his contract for enlistment into the U.S. Navy all before graduating high school in Fluvanna County. After graduation, Rigsby went to boot camp in Chicago, Illinois at age 18 and shipped off to his first duty station aboard the USS Fitzgerald in the Sea of Japan a year later. The collision that ended Rigsbys career and life happened on June 17, 2017. The Fitzgerald Plaque outside post office. Photography by Deadra Miller Artwork commemorating fallen sailors. Photography by Deadra Miller was conducting routine exercises within the Sea of Japan. Rigsby was one of the seven sailors who were killed when the Fitzgerald collided with a Filipino cargo ship. Later that day, a chaplain with the U.S. Navy told Dakotas mother, Shawn Rigsby, the devastating news. Dakota Rigsbys remains were flown home from Japan with full honors. On July 1, 2017, Rigsby was laid to rest at Zion United Methodist Church in Zions Crossroads with attendance limited to only military personnel and close family. The Patriot Guard Riders (a group of men and women who help escort a fallen military and first responders remains) attended a memorial service that was held at Fluvanna County High School. Rigsby was not forgotten by the community. Although Rep. Garrett was not able to attend the service, officials from his office brought a personal note and two American flags that were flown over the House of Representatives to present them to Rigsbys mother at the service. Outside of Fluvanna High School during the service, ladder trucks from Goochland, Crozet, Hollymead and his home station of Lake Monticello had the traffic circle hung with American flags in honor of Rigsby. Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors Chairman Mike Sheridan, who taught and coached Rigsby, called the wide support a fitting tribute to a young man who gave his life in the service for our country. Here we are, coming out for this young man. Sheridan said, And I want to thank all of them. Page 18 LEGO Blocks take over Lewis Ginter Jessica Adkins, online editor guests ran and played. During the summer, Lewis Ginter has a small water park in the garden to give a place for parents to rest while their children play and cool off. Further through the maze of winding paths, a small display is just a short walk from the conservatory. The display consists of a picture board where children and adults can poke their heads through the hole and pose as an adult doing yard work posing with a child that is helping out. After a long journey through the blossoming gardens, people can go into the conservatory for the annual butterfly exhibit. In the exhibit, people can walk around and interact with hundreds to thousands of butterflies while learning interesting facts about the different species and why they are important to nature. I was thinking it was going to be another poorly done LEGO exhibit but it was actually really amazing. I found it very interesting how they tied all of the LEGO displays into one another, said Andrew Payne. The word LEGO is not something that comes to mind when thinking about a garden. However, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden pulled it off. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of Richmond, Virginia, lies 50 acres of scenic garden views. In these gardens, not only can one find delicate flowers and busy bugs but also all sorts of life made out of LEGO blocks. However, the display only lasts through Sept. 22. This is the first year that Lewis Ginter has put on this display. The people who put on the display are not sure if they will be doing it next year. Alongside the winding walkways, people can find various species of flowers, shrubberies, and trees. With every new plant that is spotted, there is a small sign stating what type it is. As people walk further through the gardens, they are greeted by the refreshing mists that radiate from a few ponds that almost surround a secluded building, Robins Tea House. The pond directly in front of the tea house is home to many species of small fish and has a path that people can walk out on and feed the fish. A lifelike LEGO mother duck and her ducklings walk along the edge of the pond. Next stop on the LEGO map was the Bloemendaal house which was tucked back into the shaded woods. As children ran up and down the gravel walkways, they were greeted by a huge garter snake and tiny mouse which were both made out of LEGO blocks. Joyous laughter floated from the childrens garden, LEGO mother duck with ducklings in tow. Photography by Jessica Adkins where the youngest Page 19 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editor Cody Clark Online Editors Jessica Adkins Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Abigail Brand Cody Clark Dylan Cox Karli Turner Aleena Haidari Sam Huff Deadra Miller Matthew Minecci Ari Oxford Elizabeth Phan Veronica Reyes Anandhu Shaji Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions.  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com Summer 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College Khizr Khan to Send Off PVCCs 2019 Graduates Callan Shore, assistant editor On May 16, the 46th class of PVCC students will cross the stage at John Paul Jones Arena and receive their diplomas, but what makes their ceremony unique is the speaker who will be featured. We are honored to have Khizr Khan as our commencement speaker this yearwe look forward to hearing about Mr. Khans life and experiences in his message to our graduates, PVCC President Dr. Frank Friedman said in a press release. Khan follows in the steps of PVCCs 2018 speaker Justin Fairfax, Virginias lieutenant governor, and PVCCs 2017 speaker Rasheda Ali-Walsh, daughter of Muhammad Ali. Khizr Khan was born in Pakistan and emigrated to America in 1980. He went on to Spring Fling Fun pages 16-17 study at Harvard Law School and the University of Missouri Law School. Khan has been both revered and despised for his activism against religious and minority based discrimination. Khan made national headlines in 2016 when he spoke at the Democratic National Convention and criticized President Trump for his proposed Muslim ban. His son, Captain Humayun Khan, was killed in the Iraq war in 2004 and received the Gold Star and Purple Heart awards for his service. Khan said, Hillary Clinton was right when she called my son the best of America. If it was up to Donald Trump, he never would have been in America. Since 2016, Khan has continued to advocate for equity for Muslims and other marginalized communities; he has written two books, An American Family and This is Our Constitution; See Graduation Speaker on page 4 In This Issue Photo Courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Elections -pgs. 6-7 Egg Hunt -pgs. 14-15 Classes -pgs. 18-21 Profile Reviews Classifieds -pg. 25 -pgs. 30-31 -pg. 32 DATES TO REMEMBER SGAs De-stress Week April 29May 2 Main Building, North Mall Meeting Room Science Symposium May 3 , 11 a.m. 5p.m. Main Building, North Mall Meeting Room PVCC Graduation May 16, 6 p.m. John Paul Jones Arena Last day for to register to vote in June 11 Primary May 20 FAFSA Super Saturday May 25, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Main Building M154 Memorial Day May 27 No classes Full Summer and Five Week Classes Begin May 28 Last Day to Apply for Absentee Ballot Via Mail, Fax or Online June 4 Last Day to Apply in Person for an Absentee Ballot June 8 Primary Election Day June 11 First Five Week Classes End July 1 Second Five Week Classes Begin July 2 Independence Day July 4 No classes Summer Classes End Aug. 6 Blood Donations Save Lives Bryn Dotson, assistant editor Nervous and calm faces lined the walls of the North Mall Meeting Room on PVCCs main campus on Tuesday, April 2. Students and faculty were invited to sign up online and donate blood for the American Red Cross. People young and old sat in chairs that flanked the room, waiting to be called up to give their donation. Some of them sat perfectly still, seemingly unphased, while others fidgeted. This is my first time donating blood, said PVCC student Ana Doder with a nervous smile, But Im doing it to give back. According to the Red Crosss website, the Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. One donation of blood can potentially save up to three people, according to the Red Crosss website. Bernadette Jay, the external communications manager for American Red Cross, said, Its always refreshing and a full circle reminder of our lifesaving and humanitarian missions. PVCCs generous donors provided 25 pints of blood, according to Administrative Assistant Rebecca Hill. To learn more about the American Red Cross and donating blood to the community, check out the American Red Crosss website https:// www.redcrossblood.org/. PVCC will be hosting another blood drive event on June 25. More information will be provided closer to the date. We are impacting lives and helping patients to celebrate another day with their loved ones, Jay said. Page 2 Student Government Association News Alexandra Keniston, Public Relations SGA had an event on April 23, which was the Annual Spring Fling. It was a successful event with over 400 people in attendance, taking place from 4-7 p.m. For the second event, De-stress Week is the theme. This will take place from April 29 to May 2. The whole event will have a coloring art table going on throughout the day. On May 1, there will be a water balloon fight from 12:30-1:30 p.m. The last day of de-stress week, May 2, there will have a watermelon and lemonade table set up from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. SGA Officers of Spring 2019. Photo Courtesy of Shawn Anderson Former PVCC Science Club President Returns Samantha Aldridge, staff writer On April 24, Taylor Wright, who works for the biotech company MRIGlobal, talked to students about his career and gave advice about transitioning from PVCC to a four -year school. Wright prepared a thorough presentation about his job without getting into deep details because of the secrecy of his position. MRIGlobal is an independent organization performing contract research for government and industry. Wright graduated from James Madison University with a degree in biology. His advice to students going into their freshman year of undergraduate studies was helpful considering the amount of students in the auditorium planned to attend a four-year university after PVCC. Students were not the only ones who showed up to Wrights talk. PVCC President Dr. Frank Friedman and Dr. Anne Allison were also there to ask questions as well. Friedman said, One of the questions I see a lot in students is when will we use this material in the real world? Wright nodded in agreement and went said, The math never goes away. I use it everyday. He further explained the importance of taking chemistry and microbiology but also completely understanding the material to its core. Understanding the math in microbiology and organisms in general is vital. he says. Wright then went in to talking about the succes in undergrad. He suggested joining a research lab, specializing ones major, using specific apps that make college easier, and looking to professors as advisors. I used my professors as advisors because they seemed to know what classes I needed to continue my career, Wright said. His professors would tell him which ones he should take based on the quality of teaching. Anne Allison added, It is very important to know these professors so they can give you great recommendations for applying to jobs. The students in the auditorium all nodded in agreement. Wright was asked about job search which he answered explaining how he applied everywhere. He used Indeed.com and applied to many places, but MRIGlobal was the only one to give him a call back. He said, I struggled finding a good fit for him but is grateful he was able to be a part of MRIGlobal. If anyone is interested in speaking with Taylor Wright about his experience in college or have any questions email Anne Allison at aallison@pvcc.edu. Page 3 Graduation, continued from page 1 and he and his wife, Ghazala, have moved to Charlottesville. Spring 2019 PVCC graduate Tania Nuevo said, I believe Khizr Khans story and life experiences resemble many of Americans who immigrated to the United States and who have been naturalized, becoming US citizens. People like him came to America looking for better opportunities for themselves and their families, and it looks like, through his personal and professional achievements, his efforts and hard work paid off. Khizr Khan is one of many inspiring people who show us that if you do put your mind, time and energy to fulfilling your goals and dreams, you will succeed. PVCCs 2019 Spring Graduation will be May 16 at 6 p.m. Applications for Summer 2019 graduation are due June 15, and applications for Fall 2019 graduation are due October 15. Academic Awards Celebrate PVCC Students Cody Clark, staff writer welcome and introduction. Fifty-four students received academic awards from the three The 15th annual Academic and Leadership academic divisions at the college. After the Awards Convocation was held at the Dickinson academic awards, Assistant Professor of Main Stage on April 18. The purpose of the Engineering and Electronics Hunter Moore gave convocation is to recognize students for the convocation address. outstanding achievements in academics, Moore stated he was excited to speak at the volunteerism, and leadership. The ceremony also event and that every year it gets harder to narrow acknowledged scholarship recipients. down his nominees. He said, Here at the The auditorium was packed. The crowd community college I have the luxury of teaching radiated excitement as everyone waited the start to a group of people who genuinely want to better of the ceremony. The stage had seats where many themselves. faculty and staff waited to give awards to their The awards for leadership followed with a students. total of 19 recipients across the clubs at PVCC. PVCC President Dr. Frank Friedman Many of the awards are named by faculty welcomed everyone to the awards ceremony and members that sponsor them for the semester. said, The students we recognize here today are Online Editor Deadra Miller won the leadership not only the best of PVCCs 7,500 students but award for her work with The Forum. they are among the best college students youre The final awards focused on individual gonna find anywhere, two-year college or four- achievement and service. Alana Bittner won the year college. Blue Ridge Mountains Rotary Club Travel Friedman continued by saying he had high Scholarship to Argentina as part of PVCCs hopes for the future with it being in the capable exchange program. Phi Theta Kappa celebrated hands of these student who two students: Henry McLane are going to be recognized. was named to the PTK AllHe said, Now, each of these Virginia Academic Team, students has a story behind and Elena Cantwell was their success. For many its named PTK Top Ten Allbeen a story of overcoming Virginia Academic Team and obstacles, maybe financial, the Coca-Cola Academic social, academic. Many Team Silver Scholar. Kibiriti needed a second chance, or a Majuto won the PVCC Board third chance, to be Community Service Award. successful. The Distinguished Student The academic awards Award was presented to SGA Friedman and Keniston followed Friedmans President Sophia Keniston. Page 4 The Art of Relaxing and Retreating Bryn Dotson, assistant editor Tucked away in the trailers behind the main building, next to the patio, is a hidden refuge. The walls are a deep burnt orange and the carpets are bright and soft against the dark flooring. Large upholstered chairs occupy the corners of the main room, their dark brown fabric complementing the vibrant green plants that inhabit the wooden tables. Salt lamps are on every table, giving the room an amber glow. This quiet and quaint area is the Retreat Room. PVCC student Lima Mohammad planted the seed for the importance of having a room like the Retreat Room. The idea to create such a space began when Mohammad realized that she and other students needed a more spiritual place to pray. For me, since I was in school, I wasnt able to pray properly, Mohammad explained. I would pray in the girls locker room, which wasnt a spiritual place or a clean place. Mohammad decided to go to PVCCs president, Frank Friedman, directly to ask about creating a safe space for students to both pray and unwind. Photography by Bryn Dotson Friedman was really happy about it. Since Mary Baldwin had moved out, there was a space that we could use. He rebuilt everything. We were all really excited and amazed because he had really done an amazing job, Mohammad said, grinning ear to ear. According to PVCCs Facebook page, the Retreat Room opened on March 20 and consists of three rooms for contemplation, reflection, meditation, introspection, and spiritual renewal. There is a sign-in sheet to the right of the door when students walk in for those who would like to reserve one of the two rooms. The quiet study rooms are sizeable and include their own tables, salt lamps, and chairs. The Retreat Room is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Its for all students. Its for anyone who wants to come in and pray or anyone who just needs a really quiet place to get away from all of the stress, Mohammad said. Page 5 Dates to Know for the Delegate Primaries Deadra Miller, online editor Every year in Virginia is an election year. This year in particular the offices that are being voted on are members of Virginia House of Delegates (57th District) and three members of the Charlottesville City Council. The primary to determine who will be on the ballot will be held on June 11. The deadlines for voter registration are as follows: May 20 is the last day to register to vote in the primary; June 4 is the last day to apply for an absentee ballot (mail, fax and online); June 8 is the last day to apply for an absentee ballot in person (check out the local registrar for hours); and June 11 is primary election day. Five democratic candidates are running for three spots within the Charlottesville City Council. This specific election will be narrowing that number of five to three candidates. The candidates are Lloyd Snook, Sena Magill, Brian Pinkston, F. Bob Fenwick Jr. and Michael Payne; all of these candidates are a part of the Democratic Party, according to NBC 29. In addition, there are two candidates running for the House of Delegates in Charlottesville. Throughout the year, Virginia Democracy Fellows Jordan Roberts, Hannah Thacker, and Chad Mitchell have worked to register voters at PVCC. These fellows and Assistant Professor of Political Science Connie Jorgensen have made Voter Registration easy. For this election, awareness of candidacy and registration is in the forefront of their minds. As previously mentioned awareness is key for the Virginia Primaries, but the fall elections have a bigger impact. Jorgensen said, Thacker, Roberts and Mitchell are developing voter outreach for the Fall 2019 semester, these students efforts are funded by the Campus Vote Project. The tables that show up around every election are manned by one or all three of these students, and they are looking for more help manning these; to get more information on volunteering with the help of the Fellows please contact Jorgensen at cjorgensen@pvcc.edu. Photo Courtesy of Hannah Thacker Page 6 Scottsville Board of Supervisors Candidate Visit Tiana Sigala, staff writer On April 25, PVCC hosted Donna Price, candidate for the Scottsville Board of Supervisors. Price came to PVCC in collaboration with Assistant Professor of Political Science Connie Jorgensen to speak to classes about her motivation to run for public office and her desire to impress that motivation on to students. Price, a military lawyer for 25 years and a civilian lawyer for many years following, took care to detail the inequalities she witnessed which gave rise to her motivation to work in law. When she was young and surrounded by fellow Roman Catholics, it took John F. Kennedys presidential campaign to first grasp the religious discrimination that pervaded our country. Price grew up in a small town in Louisiana, and felt a slight culture shift upon moving to Atlanta. Everyone knew their place, she said of her small town, as opposed to Atlanta, where signage in public spaces was required to remind black citizens of their supposed subserviency, she took notice of the strong racial discrimination that lay teeming in the backbone of our country. That just struck me as wrong. It was legally permissible, she said, framing the word permissible in air quotes, but it was morally wrong. Price developed views on gender discrimination while serving in the Navy, describing a combat exclusionary rule which barred women from being able to serve in combat -related areas. This struck a chord, as Price served in the Navy as a transgender woman, presenting as a man. She said, Had the Navy found out I was transgender while I was serving, I would have been separated and the basis would have been sexual perversion, despite never having done anything overt, or wrong. Prices strong sense of justice expands to issues such as affordable housing. She spoke of Scottsville tenderly, describing its small-town feel and the lasting rural quality the town has maintained. She displayed an encyclopedic knowledge of the towns existing zoning laws while describing changes she would like to make in order to bring more families rather than large developments to Scottsville. If you want a live town or city, you have to have people living there, she said, If we can increase the residential density in Scottsville, thats going to bring more people, more restaurants and shops. Her aim is to support growth in the town and to bring in development and investment that would bolster the existing culture, not diminish it. As a politician, Price stresses her commitment to progressive policy over party. Though running as a Democrat, she said, I am much more aligned philosophically with the firebrands, AOC, and some of the newcomers. The voters of Scottsville are primarily Republican, but Price believes in her connection with constituents, and she described friendships she has made in Scottsville and her commitment to local enterprise. Ive made great connections and friendships down in Scottsville. I buy my books at Baines, not at Amazon, she said, If you want local businesses, you have to support local business. Price presents issues such as thriving local business, affordable housing, and the support of continued rurality in her town as partisan issues, as interests of the residents of Scottsville that rise above party lines. Another issue Price considers non-partisan is that of representation. I truly believe in inclusiveness and diversity, she said, solemnly, if every member of the deciding body comes from the exact same background, then youre going to get answers that works perfectly for that group and doesnt do anything for other groups. Price expressed her belief in the value of representation beyond representative democracy. She hopes that her campaign, successful or not, can serve as representation for those she describes as other. She referred to herself as other, as well as people who do not enjoy the privilege of seeing themselves mirrored in roles such as politics, in the real world or in media. To Price, being able to place oneself in such roles is pivotal, and she hopes that her candidacy might serve as the representation necessary to convince others that they have a place in politics. I had to spend thirty years of my adult professional life hidden, and I dont anymore, she said, Whether I win or lose, this is my way to make the world a better place. Page 7 International Food Festival at PVCC Elizabeth Phan, staff writer On Wednesday, April 3, the International Food Festival was held in the North Mall Meeting room from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to fundraise for Clowns Without Borders. The entire event supported the low waste and zero plastic movement by supplying eco-friendly utensils. The festival featured food from restaurants such as Bavarian Chef, Maru served by K-Club (Korean Club), Cactus, and Himalayan Fusion, all of which supported authentic local restaurants. Various PVCC clubs also came to support the cause and provided dishes such as Japanese Club with sushi, homemade crepes from the French club, favorite home dishes from the International Club, Black Student Alliance with their popular classic American favorites, and the Pulsera Project where the Spanish club sold hand woven bracelets from Central American artisans. The organizer for the International Food Festival, Kit Decker, hopes that students and faculty at PVCC can enjoy a vibrant campus full of diversity and appreciation of different cultures and cuisine. I love that half a dozen different student clubs will be represented and put a lot of energy and effort into the event, he said. He wants students to learn to try something new and learn to love what other cultures have to share. Decker explains that the student and faculty at PVCC use this opportunity to understand the rich, cosmopolitan community that flourishes in Charlottesville. See how different traditions, cultures, and tastes can fuse into a greater whole. To remember that the world is vast and needs to be explored by willing, curious, adaptable, compassionate minds, said Decker. Spanish Club Fundraiser Success Ella Chin, guest writer Amarro cinco colores . . . Her two young children by her side, Nazarena, an artist from the city of Masaya, Nicaragua, chooses five spools of colorful thread and begins weaving them into an intricate braid. She talks while she tucks and twists the thread, explaining that she has been making pulseras-bracelets--for four years now and that she can make twenty to twenty-five dollars a day. She is grateful to have a job that enables her to take care of her children, and when she is finished with her pulseras, she delicately places Photo courtesy of Ella Chin their ends to the flame of a candle to set the wax that keeps their tips from coming undone. Nazarena is just one of over 200 artists whose pulseras were featured at the PVCC Spanish Club's April fundraiser for The Pulsera Project, an organization that supports communities throughout Nicaragua and Guatemala. Despite their natural beauty and rich cultural histories, Nicaragua and Guatemala are faced with high poverty rates, and The Pulsera Project helps artisans like Nazarena to support their families and provides them with educational opportunities, scholarships, and health assistance. The complex designs and bold colors of each pulsera represent the heritage of the artist who made it, and the fundraiser brought attention to not only The Pulsera Projects mission but also the beautiful artistic traditions of Latin America. The Pulsera Project and all the families it helps support rely on school sales to raise money, and between April 1st and 15th, the Spanish Club's sale raised over $700 by selling tiful pulseras and bolsitas (purses) to PVCC faculty, staff, and students. Muchas gracias to all who helped us in our efforts to make the world a more colorful place! Page 8 Municipal Separate Storm Water Sewer Systems Rebecca S. Parkhill, guest writer What is an MS4 Permit? Municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) is defined as a conveyance or system of conveyances otherwise known as a municipal separate storm sewer system, including roads with drainage systems, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, manmade channels, or storm drains. Discharges from municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4) are regulated under the Virginia Stormwater Management Act, the Virginia Stormwater Management Program (VSMP) Permit regulations, and the Clean Water Act as point source discharges. The College's storm water discharges are regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality via a MS4 (Small Municipal Separate Storm Water Sewer Systems) Permit. As part of the permit responsibilities, PVCC must submit an MS4 Annual Report to the Department of Environmental Quality to show that we are meeting our established BMP's (Best Management Practices). PVCC's MS4 plan and annual report are submitted in accordance with 9VAC25-890-30 and 9VAC25-890-40 as part of the registration statement for permit coverage to discharge stormwater to surface waters of the Commonwealth of Virginia consistent with the VAR04 General Permit, effective July 1, 2013. Why do I care about MS4? Did you know that by the year 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish and that nearly every seabird in the world has eaten plastic, according to The Washington Post. The goal of PVCCs Stormwater Management Program is to ensure that stormwater generated on the Colleges campus does not adversely affect surface or groundwater on campus or downstream. Moores Creek runs through PVCC to the Rivanna River, eventually reaching the Chesapeake Bay. Any illicit discharge activity on campus, such as a motor oil spills or plastics and trash left on campus grounds, will impact these important waterways. Just Google plastics in the ocean. What you find should disturb you. Images courtesy of Rebecca S. Parkhill Page 9 Photography by Callan Shore Dance Showcase Draws Tears and Cheers Callan Shore, assistant editor The PVCC Dance Club Spring Showcase, entitled Everyones a Little Crazy, began with slight technical difficulties but turned into a captivating piece of professional art that left the audience screaming. The Dance Club is a place for all dancers, whether they have taken years of dance classes, like member Kaili Brannan, or have never stepped foot in a dance studio, like member Gareth Wittig. The club is run by Rainah Gregory, a PVCC student who will be attending UVA in the fall. Dancers Sofia Smith and Kaili Brannan help Gregory by choreographing dances and organizing meetings. Gregory said, I was accepted to transfer to UVA. Its bittersweet. I hope to be involved somehow whether that is choreographing a dance or helping to market the club. My fellow officers this past semester Sofia Smith and Kaili Brannan will be taking over. On April 25, months of hard work culminated in the Spring Dance Club Showcase. The show began at 7:30 p.m., but the team began to trickle into the backstage room of the Black Box Theater at PVCC at 4 p.m. Dancers steamed their costumes and giggled. At 6 p.m., all club members, including stage managers, followed Gregorys lead in a small stretch and workout session. Gregory yelled motivational sayings until all dancers had completed 100 crunches. At 7, family and friends of the performers, as well as a few PVCC students, found their seats. The show started 10 minutes late, but once the loud music and energized movements began, any complaints from the crowd were silenced. The showcase featured 10 dances, which were all choreographed by Gregory and other dance club members. The dances that created the most deafening cheers from the audience were a theatrical dance set to the song Stacys Mom and an intense, technical dance set to Bellyache and Bury a Friend, songs by Billie Eilish. Gregory said, When it comes to choreography I get a lot of inspiration from classes I have taken or works I have seen. Some moves come naturally whereas other moves I have to plan out... In this past showcase the pieces I choreographed were songs that when I heard them I immediately pictured it in my head! This can be really fun and scary (since I dont want to forget what Im envisioning!) Ive loved working with Sofia and Kaili, their choreography is awesome and collaborating with them was super fun! Im excited to see what they do next! After the show, family and friends mingled with the dancers and devoured a cake with Why be moody when you can shake your booty spelled in icing across the top. Stage Manager John Banks beamed and repeated, That was just so good! In order to join Dance Club in the Fall, contact Rainah Gregory, Kaili Brannan, or Sofia Smith. Dance Club meets 12-1 p.m. every Wednesday. Page 10 The Mona Lisa Comes to Life Cody Clark, staff writer On Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m. The Core Ensemble performed Equally Divine: The Real Story of the Mona Lisa at PVCC Black Box Theatre. The Core Ensemble is a musical group whose performances highlight social justice issues and Americas diverse cultures. In Equally Divine: The Real Story of the Mona Lisa, there were three musicians; one cellist, one pianist, and one percussionist. The music complimented the performance of the lone actor on the stage, Kevin Paley. The musicians and Kevin Paley, who played Mona Lisa, take their positions on stage. Paley was dressed in a silky black coat and wore a wig. Paley announced the Mona Lisa has been stolen from the Louvre and the culprit is nowhere to be found. The French police are baffled, and the public mourns the loss of a painting that no one cared about until after it was stolen. Its human nature to not appreciate what we have until its gone, said Paley. The play began with the three musicians playing Trio in Memoriam to set the tone. The Mona Lisa described her current predicament. While talking directly to the audience, she described how she was trapped in a trunk that was tucked away in a closet. To pass the time, she recalled her time at the Louvre, where she went largely unappreciated by those that visited the museum. In the second scene, the Mona Lisa goes over her origins. The Mona Lisa was painted by Leonardo Da Vinci for Francesco del Giocondo. The model would be Francescos wife, Lisa. Mona Lisa recounted an interaction between Lisa, Da Vinci, and Sala, Da Vincis apprentice. Paley constantly shifted tones in his voice and changed his posture to allow for the audience to easily follow which character was talking. It was revealed that while Lisa del Giocondo was the subject of the Mona Lisa painting, it was Salas smile that was used as the basis for the Mona Lisas smile. After holding the Mona Lisa captive for two years, Vincenzo Peruggia, the man responsible for crime, was caught in Italy. The Mona Lisa recounted her delight at seeing the light of day again. She soon returned to the Louvre and was enjoying the public's new found appreciation for her. To end the night, Paley said that in an ideal society, we are all equally divine and no one makes a fuss about it. Photography by Cody Clark Page 11 The Forum Club Investigates the Newseum Jessica Adkins, assistant editor In the midst of peak cherry blossom season, Washington, D.C., was a bustling city full of tourists. Among the groups of people was PVCCs The Forum Club. On Saturday April 6, The Forum Club left bright and early to start their journey to Washington to visit the Newseum. The Newseum is a museum located on the corner of C Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., offering guests to experience what it is like to be in the journalism field. With six levels of exhibits, there was a lot to do and explore. The lowest level consists of the cafe, the Berlin Wall exhibit, and the FBI exhibit. In the Berlin Wall exhibit, there is an area where a person can actually touch a piece of the wall. In the middle of the Berlin exhibit stands one of the watchtowers from the war named Checkpoint Charlie. The FBI exhibit shows some of Americas most publicized crimes. When enter the exhibit, one might notice the Nissan Pathfinder that was used in the 2010 Times Square car bombing. Further into the FBI exhibit sat the Unabomber's cabin. There was an eerie feeling coming from the small wooden structure that once stood alone in the middle of the tree-filled wilderness. The Pulitzer Prize photography exhibit is on level one of the museum, along with two gift shops. Among the prize-winning pictures was a picture from the tragic events that took place in Charlottesville on Aug. 12, 2017. While standing and looking at the pictures, it was hard not to cry. The ethics center and the interactive newsroom are on level two. In the ethics center, visitors can use interactive kiosks to answer what they would do in a tough journalism setting. If a group of people wanted to try test their ethics, there was an interactive game that people could compete against each other. In the interactive newsroom, visitors can stand in front of a camera and teleprompter, read a selected script into a microphone, and be recorded. A few cubicles down from the fast-paced recording studio were news desks that people could sit at and have their picture taken as if they were about to go on air. Level three includes the journalism memorial which featured all names of journalists who have been killed in the line of work. One of the other exhibits was the Bloomberg Internet, TV, and Radio Gallery. This exhibit shows the evolution of internet, TV, and radio broadcasting. Level four consisted of the 9/11 journalism exhibit which had an entire wall full of headlines from 9/11 and the days that followed. In a little room located in the corner of the exhibit, people could sit and watch a short documentary about the events of 9/11. Down the corridor from the 9/11 exhibit was the civil rights exhibit. I enjoyed seeing all the different headlines about the same events that happened on 9/11, said Forum Club member Deadra Miller. On level five, there was an entire exhibit dedicated to sharing historical newspaper front pages. These dated back to the 1400s. Behind the exhibit was the Newseums 100-foot-wide video screen that showed a video about LGBTQ+ and civil rights which correlated with the LGBTQ+ exhibit that was one floor above. Sitting outside of the historic newsroom was a replica of the Gutenberg Press. On the top floor was the Greenspun terrace where they were actually filming a news segment that featured the U.S. Capitol building in the background. When a person came in from the terrace, they were greeted front pages from newspapers around the U.S. and the world. The LGBTQ+ exhibit that showed how the LGBTQ+ civil rights evolved over the years was also located on the top floor. Miller said, It was a great experience, and I would love to go back again. I learned a lot about different types of journalism but had fun while doing it. Page 12 Writers Unite to Express Creativity Rachel Lemley, staff writer For students wanting to enhance their use of language and expand their creativity, the Creative Writing Club at PVCC, also known as Writers Unite, is an opportunity. Writers Unite is where authors or students who enjoy writing come together and share their writing. Normally the members meet and have a few minutes of writing time, then get the chance to read and critique each other's work. The Creative Writing Club offers PVCC students a place to exercise their creativity and collaborate and converse with their fellow writers. We share and discuss original pieces, respond to prompts during "free write" time, host contests and events, and participate in editing, compiling, and formatting the annual literary magazine, said Ella Chin, one of the presidents of the club. She and Wyatt Ernst are copresidents who work together to run meetings with the faculty adviser of Writers Unite and Professor of English Jennifer Koster. They also edit and publish the literary magazine The Fall Line, which compiles student pieces of writing and art. Anyone can submit their work to the magazine for the chance to be Photo Courtesy of Professor Jennifer Koster published in it. Students can submit a maximum of ten pages of writing, either fiction or Writers Unite helps students access their more nonfiction, for review. The pieces are chosen on creative side and practice the important skills of March 31, and the magazine is published by April language and imagination. The club also gives 30. Dates may vary. The Writers Unite page students the opportunity to be published and have under the section of clubs on the PVCC website a supportive community where they can grow in has all the information and guidelines on how to knowledge and experience. submit a literary work to the magazine. Members meet every second and fourth One of the club's big goals is to promote Monday from 12-1 p.m. in room M627, the writing and reading at PVCC, and we hope that Writing Center classroom, and everyone is invited we can also encourage people to express their to join. creativity and to use the power of language to If students are interested, they can either share their thoughts and things that are important attend a meeting or contact the co-president Ella Chin at efc2793@email.vccs.edu for more details. to them, Chin said. Page 13 PVCC Hosts Annual Easter Egg Hunt Jessica Adkins, assistant editor Saturday, April 20, was a beautiful, sunny Spring day. It was perfect weather to host PVCCs annual Easter Egg hunt. The Volunteer Club collaborated with The Forum Club to organize the Easter Egg Hunt. The activities at the event included coloring, board games, face painting, pictures with Pouncer the Panther, and the Easter egg hunt itself, which then led to the raffle for prizes. There were two egg hunts for two different age groups. The first group was for 4 years old and under and the second group was for children older than 4. People started showing up at 9:45 a.m., even though the egg hunt for the younger kids did not start until 10:30 a.m. For the raffle, instead of putting candy in the Easter eggs, each egg contained at least one raffle ticket that would be used in the raffling of the prizes. There was even a golden egg that had many tickets in it to better a persons chances of winning a great prize. If a person did not win anything from the raffle, they did not leave empty-handed. Everyone who did not receive a raffle prize got a bag of candy. There were also separate candy bags for children with nut allergies. Todd Platts said, Putting tickets in the eggs was a mistake. Next time there will be no more tickets than prizes. Next years prizes will be name brand because that is what the kids seem to like. Along with prizes, the volunteers handed out free concessions. After hunting for Easter Eggs, children had the choice to enjoy snacks and juice, but many were too excited to see if they had won any of the prizes. PVCCs mascot Pouncer the Panther mingled and posed outside on the Patio or inside with the board games and coloring pages. There were many photo opportunities with the terrifyingly cute feline. The indoor activities included a Play-Doh table, several tables with coloring pages for kids to color, and various games such as large checkers and giant Jenga. Many of the younger kids were inside coloring while the older kids were outside playing yard games. Platts said, I think one of the neat things is the fact that it attracts a diverse crowd of people. Its kind of rare that kids like that can get together for something because they often live apart. Pouncer the Panther poses shows off the prizes. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 14 Children hunting for eggs. Photo courtesy of Amanda Key Photo courtesy of Amanda Key Tristan Miller poses with Pouncer. Photography by Deadra Miller Zaylie Reaves in Bunny Ears. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 15 Spring Fling Attracts Large Crowd Samantha Aldridge staff writer On April 23, PVCC students and the community gathered outside to attend the schools annual Spring Fling. The weather was in the high 80s setting a beautiful scene for the events happening. Bouncy houses, mechanical bulls, and great music all helped create positive vibes for Spring Fling 2019. As the DJ played, people danced while laughter filled the air. The DJ played great songs perfect for small children and the students, People danced all around while small laughs and talk filled the air. The DJ said, What is spring fling without a little bit of dancing? While some people watched the festivities and ate food, others took part in the activities. Near the lawn area people played volleyball and soccer. Upon entering the Spring Fling, the Student Government Association (SGA) required waivers to participate in the activities. The waiver itself was not long, making it easy to get straight to the fun. Attendees had the option of putting their name into a raffle for PVCC merchandise and gift cards. Photography by Samantha Aldridge I walked past multiple corn hole boards, people playing various games and the big velcro wall. The owner of the velcro wall said, I saw a twelve-year-old flip upside down onto the wall and I even got a picture of it. I was not lucky enough to see someone upside down on the velcro wall but I got to see my friends and peers attempt to get stuck to the sticky wall. The bull threw students left and right. The mechanical bull operator asked, Do you want the easy setting or the hard setting? The choice made by the students decided how fast and hard they would fall off the bull. I saw many students who were confident they could stay on there the longest get thrown off in two seconds. The mechanical bull definitely humbled some people that day. Overall, Spring Fling 2019 was a big success. Students, faculty, and the community all came together on a beautiful Tuesday evening to enjoy the activities offered by PVCC. SGA President Sophia Keniston even mentioned, this has been the best turnout for an event in 2019. Page 16 Page 17 Learning, Composing and Painting: ART 241 Rachel Lemley, staff writer you must know how to draw, assess color and light, assess the qualities of various paints and PVCC has many classes that go beyond the mediums, mix colors and apply them in a variety general education subjects and offer students a of textures and consistencies, choose appropriate chance to learn extraordinary skills. Painting I, or materials, supports, media and tools. You must Art 241, is a course worth four credits and is know about design and principles of visual given in Fall, Spring and Summer. Painting I lets communication, the history of painting and people to use their creativity and imagination, important painters. You must be able to solve while also learning a problems, and have good new, fascinating time management. Above hobby. The class is all you must paint and taught by Aaron develop a feel for the brush Miller, Assistant and find excitement in the Professor of Graphic process, Miller said. Design and After signing up for knowledgeable artist. Painting I, there is a short In Painting I, I do list of supplies students teach the basics: should get a few basic tints Composition, of paint, nice brushes, and Observational Tools, canvasses. Throughout the Value & Light-Tone semester, students will use relationships, Paint these tools to make art and Qualities, Markpractice the professional making, Color Mixing/ techniques that are Theory. However, the introduced in the course. excitement in the At the end of each process to me is the semester, I have every most important part. student bring in every Everyone intuitively homework painting from Photography by Rachel Lemley understands different the class, and we do a big parts, and has trouble with other parts. So in my final critique. Practicing painting can seem slow class we spend as much time as possible in front and tedious, but seeing three months of work and of the canvas, and through individual feedback progress is always great. Each student tends to and critiques I try to help each student figure out improve in different areas, and make different what the most important skill to develop is, said discoveries over the semester, but seeing their Miller. own progression I hope imparts a confidence and Even though the class is considered a lecture, excitement about continuing to paint and most of the time is spent on painting with the improve, Miller concluded. methods shown. Students get in a circle with their There are no requirements before taking paints and canvases to create their own renditions Painting I, and the students do not have to be of scenes or still-lives. experienced at painting to join. As long as Further into the semester, students are given students are willing to learn and use their more freedom in assignments and are able to paint creativity, anyone can excel in this course and self portraits, landscapes, or interesting objects develop a new talent. There is also a Painting II found around the house. Students also get to learn course that helps developing artists improve on the science behind making new paint colors and their talents. using brush strokes to make their art jump off the Once the course is over, students take home canvas. their paintings. Painting I meets every Monday Painting is a skill that takes time to develop. from 1-5 p.m. in room 118 at the Dickinson That is because it is really many skills. To paint building and lasts 16 weeks. Page 18 Drawing 1 Offered in the Fall for Students Samantha Aldridge , staff writer A normal class day generally does critique and then drawing right after. Sometimes there is a small lecture but never long enough to keep students from drawing. Miller also likes to play music while students draw which sets the mood for relaxing class time. If anyone is interested in signing up for Drawing I, the best suggestion is to sign up fast. The class is a requirement for some programs and may fill up quickly. Overall, this class is a great way to escape core classes, work on drawing skills, and meet new people. Getting that little gratification from making that tiny bit of progress hopefully gets students to take the next step and make the next little bit of progress, Miller said. Drawing I, or Art 121, is a class full of aspiring artists and students who want to get away from their core classes by drawing. After a recent interview with Aaron Miller, I was able to find out more information about his Drawing I (22495) class offered in the fall semester of 2019. I took this class last fall and had a great experience. I asked Miller about his plans for the class and why other students at PVCC should take this course. The class switches from different mediums throughout the semester. Miller went from teaching about graphite and charcoal, to pen and ink, which means a lot of drawing. Miller added, It is a fun class to teach and it is a lot more straightforward compared to painting. He says his class spends plenty of time drawing to help students improve as much as possible throughout the semester. I think its hard not to make progress in that class if you are spending that much time drawing, Miller said. He also mentions that if students are going into any form of communications then drawing can be useful for them. Once inside Dickinson, one can either take the stairs or the elevator to reach the classroom. Filled with easels and marks on the floor from previous students, the classroom is welcoming to any skill level of drawing. My friends enjoyed the class along with myself. Every week we looked forward to seeing new projects up on the wall for critique. Critique was bittersweet. Whether someone had a great drawing or not, we were able to see our progress and compare our work to Photography by Samantha Aldridge others. Page 19 PSY 200 Offers Relief in Stressful World Francesca Black, staff writer with stress. One student provided a moment of levity when the professor asked the class if anyone felt extra stressed out today for any reason, and she answered, Not yet. Overall, this class is informative and engaging. PSY-200 is offered in summer session as a 7-week class Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 1 - 3:10 p.m. in M247 or G211 as well as in the fall Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 1111:50 a.m. in M158. Community Colleges offer a multitude of classes with different perspectives on what it is to be human. One immense and important discipline is psychology. Principles of Psychology, PSY 200, with Associate Professor of Psychology Dr. Michael Rahilly gives an informative overview of the vast social science. The class utilizes interactive tools such as PowerPoint, online video, and lecture to talk about various topics. The focus of the class on April 15 was stress and coping. Dr. Rahilly discussed how the research has changed to now incorporate not only what stress is but also how happiness can be achieved through coping. In the class, Dr. Rahilly said, When studying coping, studying happiness, you know what to do to avoid stress. He illuminated the definition of stress with real life examples such as, that bing on your phone is a little stressor every time, while distinguishing between good and bad stressors. The lecture wove through these real-life examples with research to ignite discussion. Students seemed engaged as we made a list of uncontrollable stressors, including the recent tornado warning from Sunday evening. I asked Rahilly why studying psychology, particularly stress, was important. He answered, It's useful in understanding the bigger Dr. Michael Rahilly. Photography by Francesca Black. picture with how to cope Page 20 GOL 105 Available this Summer and Fall Cody Clark, staff writer Physical Geology (GOL-105) is a four-credit course that fulfills the science with a laboratory requirement for those that need it. GOL 105 teaches students about the Earths processes and how they form the natural wonders around us today. The class is offered in the summer and fall. During the fall semester, however, there are several more options available for the course. Classes can be scheduled for three times a week, twice a week, and once a week. There is also a choice between three different faculty members: Stephen Aaron Cross, Janie Vinson, and Kathryn St. Clair. In the summer, there are two options available, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 9:30-10:45 a.m. and Tuesday 11 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Both summer classes are taught by Adjunct Instructor of Geology Kathryn St. Clair. While some science courses can be more intimidating due to the amount of math possibly required, Geology is one of the least mathintensive science courses PVCC offers. That is not the only reason to take this course though, as St. Clair said, Geology is a science, and while it may not be as math intensive as other sciences, math is the language of science. But geology is the explanation of all that surrounds us. Its the beautiful science of our planet. There is another geology class available at PVCC, Historical Geology (GOL 106). Although it is not required to take GOL 105 before GOL 106, some students may find it easier to take physical before historical. St. Clair said, My Instructor Kathryn St. Clair. Photography by Cody Clark personal belief is that the concepts in Physical (mineralogy, rock types, rock processes) help students understand the more difficult sleuthing as it were of Historical Geology. This could be important for students interested in the field of geology because knowing how the processes create an ophiolite complex that you then point to and say this is how we know there was an ancient subduction zone here, this helps in the geologic understanding of the region. Jonathan Kenney, a student who took GOL 105, said, The thing I liked the most about the Physical Geology class was getting to study volcanoes and volcanic activity, and how it all worked. When asked if he would recommended the class, he said, I would definitely recommend it, students will get to learn about what makes up our world in a thorough manner, and it's a good accompaniment to Historical Geology Class. Photography by Cody Clark Geology. Page 21 The Balalaika Society Serenades PVCC Cody Clark, staff writer The Washington Balalaika Society (WBS) performed at PVCC on Sunday, March 31. The WBS was founded in 1988 and is comprised of local musicians who play the music of Russia, Ukraine and Eastern Europe on traditional Russian folk instruments. Although seated like a traditional orchestra and directed by a conductor, that is where the similarities end. What makes this orchestra unique is how the instruments are utilized to make their music. The balalaika is a guitar-like instrument with a three-sided body. These were situated on the front middle and front right of the stage. The domra, another guitar-like instrument, has a rounded body. These were on the left of the stage. The balalaika and domra can vary in size. The wind section in the back. It held instruments that most people are more familiar with, such as the flute, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon. The bayan, an accordion-like instrument, was in the back, and finally, the gusli was in the center of the stage just in front of the conductor. The gusli is similar to an autoharp in concept but looks like a table with piano keys controlled by the left hand and strings controlled by the right. The orchestra members came on stage wearing glistening red outfits with gold accents. The men wore tunics with gold striping travelling down the left side of the torso with a gold cord wrapped around the waist. The women wore dresses with white sleeves and collars with the rest of the dress mimicking their male counterparts. Before the performance, Peter Kleeman introduced the orchestra and shared a few words with the audience saying they would play a mixture of classic, folk, modern, and some surprises. The WBS started the performance with the Military March and the Balalaika Waltz. Olga Orlovskaya, a soprano opera singer, came on stage to sing two songs with the orchestra. After Orlovskaya left the stage, Aaron Mott, one of the orchestras Balalaika soloists, led Play, My Bagpipes. The orchestra then played a medley of Russian music before Peter Omelchenko, a Domra soloist, took center stage. Omelchenko led Russian Dance from Swan Lake, Csardas, and Flight of the Bumblebee. At the end of Omelchenkos songs, the audience stood and applauded before Omelchenko returned to his position with the rest Domra players. Two more songs were played before Orlovskaya returned to the stage to perform Silva and My Lips Kiss so Warmly. After Orlovskaya left the stage, Andrei Saveleiv, the Balalaika Concertmaster, took center stage to lead two songs, I Met You and Hungarian Rhapsody #2. The orchestra performed Time to Say Goodbye to close the event. Orlovskaya joined the orchestra on stage for this final performance. As the song ended, the crowd rose from their seats and applauded. Kleeman gave a few closing words and said, This is something that binds us all together. The WBS website, www.balalaika.org, has information on upcoming performances and the history of the society. Photography courtesy of Balalaika Society Page 22 VA Opera Gives PVCC a Backstage Pass Francesca Black, staff writer On Thursday, April 25, the Virginia Opera took the stage at PVCC for a workshop in the V. Earl Dickinson Building. The workshop titled What does it take to be an opera singer? demonstrated the hardships and joys of life on the stage. A grand piano sat in the middle of the dimly lit stage as the audience filed in. Statewide Director of Education and Outreach with the Virginia Opera, Cecelia Schieve, moderated the event. Her enthusiasm for opera as an art form translated to the stage as she gave detailed information on the subject. Schieve said, We are thrilled to have this level of artist with us today. Schieve introduced the artists from the Virginia Operas Herndon Foundation Emerging Artists Program, providing details about their individual styles and skill sets while examining how these added to their performances. The workshop began with each artist singing a chosen piece with the accompaniment of the pianist, Johanna Kvam. The featured soprano, Symone Harcum, sang an Italian piece while the featured tenor, Logan Z. Webber, sang a German piece, and the baritone, Joseph Mazzara, another Italian piece. The three then shifted styles between such duet performances as Agony from Into the Woods and Tonight from West Side Story. Harcum sang Summertime from Porgy and Bess by George Gershwin. Before her performance, Harcum set up the songs setting, saying, Shes singing about a more beautiful place in hopes that her child can see better times. Schieve spoke of all these style adaptations as part of the job of being an opera singer. Schieve said, You have to find that internal mechanism to bring the scene to life. She also went into the various musical terms as the performers continued. Schieve said, Symones voice has a lovely color to it; in music, this is called tambour which adds a lot to the piece. Photography by Francesca Black She also stressed the fact that the artists have to sing and act simultaneously, saying, The most important thing is that they know the meaning of the words. This is so the artists can adapt their movement, expression, and voice accordingly. The events turn out showed PVCCs appreciation for the arts. The performances were followed by an interactive Q & A session, illuminating the intricacies that go into making the art form a reality. Kvam discussed her trajectory as a pianist indicating that it all changed when she found out that it's possible to get a degree in collaborative. The artists also gave advice on life as a performer. They urged the importance of being involved in the community. Webber said, Keep networking as much as possible. They advised that the job took a lot of hard work and flexibility as a specific gig might take them across the country for varying amounts of time. Mazzara stressed the pressures saying, That five minutes can dictate whether you get a job or not. He continued with, It wouldnt be opera if it wasnt hard. When an audience member asked if they were nervous to perform today, Harcum replied with laughter, Oh yeah, I think so, I definitely forgot a word. Page 23 Reframing Procrastination for Success Tiana Sigala, staff writer Director of Academic Support Services Todd Parks and Director of Student Success and Retention David Lerman sat in a small room off of the Writing Center, ready with several piping hot pizzas and ice-cold sodas, to welcome students for a candid conversation about procrastination. They gathered to discuss right and wrong ways to procrastinate, as well as some changes of perspective regarding the subject. In Procrastination: How the Pros do it, the hosts acknowledged a general David Lerman and Todd Parks. Photography by Tiana Sigala negativity surrounding procrastination and spoke of their desire to change any negative connotations. procrastinating. If you have genuinely started it, Rather than giving tips on how to avoid and you work on it in your mind and go back to it, procrastinating, the workshop focused on thats percolation, and it can accomplish a lot of reframing it. Lerman posits that when things, Lerman said. This perspective shift procrastination is viewed as something closer to a allows a student to start their projects with intent personality trait rather than a negative action, one to percolate and feel less guilt or stress over not can more easily manage their tendencies toward having it done by a certain time. it. He moved on to strategies to improve focus If you think its not just a bad habit, then you and productivity, including the one every person can learn to work with it. It just takes time, he of the modern age has heard, put your phone said. away. About 300 minutes, Lerman said, thats Speaking with students at PVCC, the word how long college students say theyre on their procrastination quickly summons up pejoratives phone each day. Think about all the time you such as lazy or unmotivated. Even objectively could get back if you just put it away. He high-achieving students such as Elizabeth suggested incremental separation from your Valtierra, a full-time student and activist who mobile device starting with 15 or 20 minutes, and currently holds multiple internship positions, building from there. nurses negative views of her own habit of He went on with some more common procrastinating. strategies, such as to-do lists, which by his own She said, For me, it sometimes feels like Im admission are not very exciting and unmotivated, but there are times where you try to groundbreaking in the way of focus strategies. work and theres really no creativity to stem off To-do lists sound really dry. Theyre not sexy, of. he joked, but they work. To Lerman, this is less the act of Procrastination could use some rebranding, procrastination and more the act of percolation. and the Student Success Office and the Academic He reasoned, if you begin a project and leave it Support Services department are ready to help alone for a period of time, the topic stays on your students shed negative ideas and work efficiently mind and you are working on it whether despite labels. While workshops for the 2019 intentional or not. Spring semester have ended, more workshop If youve started something, youre not just information can be found at pvcc.edu/workshops. Page 24 Piedmont Profile: Who is Addie Smith? Deadra Miller, online editor When anyone walks into the south entrance of PVCC they see Addie Smith, the receptionist responding to the many phone calls received there. As a military wife, she has traveled the world, retired, raised four children, and watched each of them walk through PVCC at one point in time. Smith was also a beauty queen in her younger days. Smith was voted Mrs. Laurel Maryland in 1957 by fellow military wives on Fort Meade Army Base. At that time, Smiths husband was an E-9 (Sergeant Major) in the United States Army. After she won the title, her husband received orders to report to Fort Gordon, Georgia, his new duty station. While in Georgia, Smith attended dental school and graduated with a dental assistant title associated with the Red Cross. Smith has also traveled the world; she has been to France, Germany, Belgium, England and Italy. Traveling to these countries would not have been possible without the help of her husband Sgt. Major James Edward Smith. Right before Smiths husband retired out of the Army, he was selected for the Warrant Officer list (a promotion list for Warrant Officer across all branches of the military,) but he Addie Smith Beauty Queen. Photos courtesy of Addie Smith Addie Smith being pinned at graduation chose retirement in 1968. After retirement, J. Smith and his family moved to Charlottesville so he could attend UVA for Radiology; he then received his degree and worked under the supervision of Dr. Keats. While J. Smith was working at and attending UVA, Mrs. Smith was working at K-Mart. She worked there until 1996 as a front end manager, payroll manager, and human resources manager. Now, Smith watches her grandchildren and great grandchildren walk the halls of PVCC. One of Smiths granddaughters will be graduating this spring with honors and went to Orlando, Florida, with Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) a few weeks ago. Her motivation is seeing all of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren attend PVCC. She is a family woman that will help every one of them without a second thought. Please stop by greet Addie Smith or have a small chat with her; one may learn something about the older generation. Page 25 PVCC Instills Job-Hunting Fundamentals Tiana Sigala, staff writer moving on to what they do for fun and, if the conversation has gone well thus far, get to the heart of why they approached this person. At events such as a Chamber of Commerce meeting or a convention, this allows a job-seeker to make valuable contacts in a small amount of time that can be built upon at a later date. Another important tip is for everyone to know their worth as they head into the job market. Unemployment is low in Charlottesville, and what Im hearing is employers telling me they simply cannot fill positions, said Davis. According to Davis, this atmosphere should encourage applicants to negotiate the salary rather than accept whichever job offer they receive first. Applicants are encouraged to research the salary of comparable positions on websites like glassdoor.com, or even LinkedIn, in order to be better prepared to begin negotiations. If the desired salary cannot be reached at hiring, applicants can ask about performance reviews and chances for salary raises at that time. Additionally, job-seekers can negotiate benefits such as parking spaces or time off. Davis offers resources such as resumebuilding packets and slides on networking and negotiating by email or request and can be reached at madavis@pvcc.edu. A small group of students congregated in an unused classroom on Wednesday, April 17, to discuss some basic yet important factors of entering the job market: networking and negotiating a salary. Job and Internship Coordinator Gigi Davis led a talk in which she urged students to network and make friends in their prospective industries. The workshop touched on many different facets of job-hunting skills, such as finding the right position for students through informational interviews. An informational interview is when a person asks for a 30-45 minute interview with a person in a career they would like to be in. Its great to do informational interviews, and for those who haven't heard of these before, it basically means talking to someone about what they do, how they like what they do and how they got to that position, Davis said. By conducting this form of interview, a job-seeker stands to build a connection with someone in the industry, as well as to get a sense of whether this job is what they want. Davis encourages students to see the potential for growth and connection in people everywhere, from co-workers to those in prospective positions, even PVCC faculty. Davis said, A lot of times people see this type of networking as using people, but ultimately at some point down the road you will be able to reciprocate and act as a resource to those who have helped you. Focus on networking brought up the idea of cold talking, such as using the technique FORM. FORM is an acrostic that stands for family, occupation, recreation, and message. In order to have a friendly conversation with someone upon first meeting them, a person might begin by introducing themselves and talking about their family, Kibiriti Majuto and Gigi Davis. Photography by Tiana Sigala asking what this person does, Page 26 Violet Crown Provides Perk of the Industry Francesca Black, staff writer The city of Charlottesville ranks 14th on the list of cities with most restaurants per capita in the U.S. according to the Huffington Post. This means a lot of people need to work in those restaurants. Restaurant work usually consists of long hours catering to customers looking to have a good time. For those that work late nights, the Violet Crown on the Downtown Mall provides one perk in the form of Industry Night. Every Monday night at 10 p.m., Violet Crown Theater offers a free movie, usually a new release, to anyone with a valid food service pay stub. The movie on Monday, April 1, was The Beach Bum, directed by Harmony Korine. The movie has an all-star cast, including Matthew McConaughey, Zac Efron, Snoop Dogg, Jonah Hill, and Isla Fisher. The crowd cheered as the theater darkened. One movie goer, Daniel, a server at Now and Zen, said, Industry Night brings a real sense of camaraderie to the evening, and is something we usually dont get to do because of work. Moviegoers choose their seating options before the movie starts, allowing for groups to reserve seating. The cozy theater was peppered with laughter throughout the movie. Violet Crown offers draft beer ($6-10) and wine ($6-10) as well as a full menu until 10:30 p.m. including hand-cut fries ($6) and avocado spring rolls ($8). Another server, Tasha, from The Continental Divide, said, Sometimes all of us go right after work, and we have a great time. Chowing Down on Chocolate and Art Bryn Dotson, assistant editor Faculty, staff, students, and visitors swarmed around a variety of pieces of art with chocolates and ice-cream cups in hand. The once lifeless walls came alive in the V. Earl Dickinson building on Friday, April 19, in honor of the Annual Student Exhibition and Seventh Annual Chocolate Chow Down. Inside the building, people handed out small cards to explain more about the artwork and the chow down. Despite the rain that day, the hallways were stuffed with people, and it was hard to navigate through them to see the artwork. The chocolate was almost completely gone by 5:30 p.m. but by that time, the parking lot had thinned out and there were a significant number of parking spots remaining for those coming later in the evening for the Free Movie Friday event, Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse. I had only ever heard about this event through Piedmont students, said Claire Mills, a student from the University of East Anglia. This years art included a variety of mediums from printmaking, painting, drawing, graphic design, digital photography, art history, ceramics, and more. Each piece of artwork on display was unique from the others and had a variety of colors, textures, styles, and emotions. I think it is a great idea to showcase young artists work. I am also not one to say no to artwork and chocolate, Mills said. Photography by Bryn Dotson Page 27 Changing the Way Prosecutors Prosecute Teddie Frock, staff writer On April 6, Indivisible Charlottesville hosted a panel of law enforcement professionals to discuss the power of prosecutors and focus on ways of eliminating mass incarceration and diversion of children away from the criminal justice system. Indivisible, a group formed in the aftermath of the 2016 election, supports localities in taking actions to teach and implement Civic education regarding Federal and State legislative issues. They also support voter registration and endorse candidates for office. The panel included Joe Platania, Charlottesvilles commonwealth attorney; Liz Murtagh, public attorney for Charlottesville and Albemarle; Jim Hingeley, co-director of the Criminal Defense Clinic; Monica Robinson, president of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham branch of the NAACP; and Diane McNeel, chairperson of the NAACP education committee, Charlottesville, Albemarle. Prosecutors have tremendous influence regarding cases in the criminal justice system. They have the power to decide if charged individuals will be taken to court. It is the job of the defense attorney to communicate with the Commonwealth Attorney about the person who is charged and what the circumstances are in each case. This approach helps them to see defendants not just as a perpetrator or criminal, but as a person. Platania said, Just because we have a hammer, not everything is a nail. Juvenile offenders and those with mental health and substance abuse issues can be diverted away from incarceration to programs that help them address underlying issues. The court can give offenders the opportunity to participate in the programs as an alternative to going to jail, or in some cases, to eliminate having a criminal record that will follow them throughout their lives. Drug court is a rehabilitative and behavioral program available to those with substance abuse issues. Clients are followed and held accountable by the court for the period of time needed to recover and embark on a productive path. The mental health docket allows people with mental health or psychiatric issues to work with health professionals to treat and manage underlying issues. Clients can receive the support to make positive healthy changes, and at the same time, receive treatment. Some juvenile courts have programs that reach out to schools and work with them to find ways to not bring children into the system. The panelists and audience discussed issues of disparity in the system that contributes to arrests and incarceration of minorities and children. Platania was questioned about the need to hire African-American students to work in the Commonwealth Attorney office. is office has initiated an internship program for AfricanAmerican students. The panelists encouraged citizens to influence prosecutors to work on changing laws that do more harm than good to communities, such as mandatory minimum sentence guidelines and discriminatory mass incarceration. Panelists also encouraged parental and citizen involvement with children in schools, as a way to help young people to grow up to be productive and successful adults. Plantanias efforts include the implementation of a mental health treatment court as an alternative to incarceration. He has also introduced the concept of community prosecution. Community prosecution involves using the prosecutors office to solve problems, improve public safety and the lives of citizens. According to Platania on his role as prosecutor, Youre there to develop relationships, I am a big believer in relationships and pre-existing relationships as a way to solve problems. Page 28 Understanding Islam, Seeking the Face of God Photo Courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations Teddie Frock, staff writer On April 16, the PVCC Religion 230 class hosted guest speaker Dr. Aliaa Khdir to speak about Islam beliefs. The title of her talk, Believers Quest to See the Face of God in Ones Self as Well as in Creation, was open to the PVCC community. She said, The believers quest is to seek the face of God. She said that seeking the face of God helps Muslims in seeking peace and meaning in their religion and their lives. Khidr is a speech language pathologist and retired physician who is affiliated with UVA. She is also a public speaker on speech pathologies, disorders and treatment. At PVCC, Khidr first had students connect in small groups to discuss their own interpretations of what the face of God means to them. This provided everyone with the opportunity to introduce themselves and speak to each other about their knowledge and interpretations of Islamic beliefs. Khidr then presented a powerpoint highlighting some of the tenets of Islam. The Quran is the book of signs, said Khidr. Muslims believe that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad between the years of 609 and 632 B.C. In the Quran, the first command from God to Muhammad was to read. Muhammad could not read, but he learned that to read means to understand and seek the signs. Signs are arrows that help to seek and understand God. Allah means God, Salah means prayer, and divine worship means a connection to God. If there is not a connection, then Salah is a ritual. The perspective of God is that he is everywhere, said Khdir. For those interested in learning more about Islam, they can go to the website https:// www.receivingnur.org/. Dr. Khidr can also be contacted through email at alliahkhidr@gmail.com. Page 29 Enjoy Delicious Offerings at Now And Zen Francesca Black, staff writer Good, inexpensive sushi is hard to come by in small towns such as Charlottesville. However, tucked into 2nd Street right off the Downtown Mall sits Now and Zen. With its cozy atmosphere, sunny dining room, and delicious food, Now and Zen is an amazing place to dine. The luscious smell of soy sauce and fresh fish hits first, followed by a mixture of sesame and tempura. The food flows out of the kitchen whenever it is ready as Japanese culture does not follow the common course system of appetizer, entree, and dessert. The menu is broken down into soups, salads, homemade dumplings, small plate, noodles/entrees, and various sushi combinations including the popular BIG Rolls!!!. Almost all of the options pair well with each other. The house-made dumplings are delicate and tender, brimming with either vegetable or local pork filling and served with an aromatic sauce ($8 -11). Soups include traditional miso ($3.50) or the Photography by Francesca Black special blue crab miso ($5.50), which comes with a blue crab shell for added flavor and amusement. The smaller plates are delightful, with the popular Grilled Black Cod ($12) or Octopus Tempura ($12). Another lure to Now and Zen is the portion size. While the more delicate small plates amused the palate, the larger entrees, noodle dishes, and big sushi rolls drove home the dinner. Dishes such as Gyudon ($13), beef and rice bowl, and the Katsu Curry ($18), curry with breaded pork, left us stuffed and satisfied. The big rolls entertained with decorative plating. The Volcano Roll ($15), filled with cucumber and avocado, topped with fresh tuna, and speckled with flying fish roe and spicy mayo, was exciting and delicious. Now and Zen offers a full sushi selection, ranging from the basic California roll ($5.50) to sea urchin roe with quail egg ($10), allowing diners to sample all the flavors of Japan. Open everyday from 5 - 9 p.m. except Friday and Saturday, 5 - 10 p.m., Now and Zen is a satisfying experience that will not break the bank. Page 30 Bake My Day At The Pie Chest Rachel Lemley, staff writer In the heart of downtown Charlottesville lies a hidden gem - delicious pie. The Pie Chest is a local bakery in an alleyway off the downtown mall. The Pie Chest was established by Will Richey, who helped to revive downtown by opening the Whiskey Jar and The Alley Light. The Pie Chest has been serving happiness ever since its opening in 2015. Baker Rachel Pennington uses her grandmas recipes to bring back memories of childhood.. On the Pie Chest website, http://thepiechestcville.com, she says that she strives to recreate the tastes, smells, and feels of being right at home. I found out about The Pie Chest about a year after I moved to Charlottesville in 2015. My father showed it to me for breakfast, and from that moment, I was hooked. From then on, I made a point of taking my friends from out of town to it, or anyone who just hadnt heard about it yet, said Curtis Gill, a food connoisseur and expert on downtown life. All of the pies are made from scratch, whether they are sweet or savory, and kept in nice display cases. In the childhood of Will Richey, however, pies were kept in pie safes, or as Richey calls them, pie chests, which is how he named his store. Pie is not the only thing at this store. They also sell delicious coffee, breakfast biscuits, rolls, bars, and a variety of cookies. Walking in the store, guests are instantly greeted with the joyful voices of the bakers and the mouth-watering aroma of freshly baked pastries. Light fills the brightly colored caf and lands like a spotlight on the array of dessert and dinner pies. The people are friendly, and the shop gives off a rustic and welcoming feel. Once the pie is bought ($5-$10), the guests can choose to sit around one of the quaint wooden tables either in the restaurant or on their little porch outside. Unfortunately, The Pie Chest can get busy, so seating is limited. The menu for the day and shop itself are difficult to find given their change of pie each day, but the effort it takes to get there is worth the new tastes and environment. Eating the pie is its own experience. The crust is flaky and golden brown, while the inside is warm, soft, and filled with flavor. Some of their popular dessert pies are the s'mores pie, which is a chocolate pie wrapped in graham cracker crust and covered in melted marshmallow, or the cinnamon crumble apple, which is a sweet pie baked to a crisp, filled with sugary apples and topped with cinnamon crumbs. The Pie Chest is not only a dessert place. Some of their favorite pies are their special dinner pies. Their pot and hand pies are made with a thick crust and baked around many fillings, such as chicken, bacon, and roasted garlic, or spring vegetables, or southern pulled-pork barbeque. It doesnt matter what time of day you visit; for breakfast and lunch they have savory hand and pot pie, and they have a wide selection of dessert pies to try after dinner on weekends. They also have amazing coffee to boot. It is just another iconic spot in our Charlottesville community, Gill said. The Pie Chest is open at the downtown mall on 119 4th Street at 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hazelnut and Lime Pie. Photography by Rachel Lemley Page 31 Classifieds Want to Make the News? Introduction to Journalism ENG 121 Fall Semester 2019 Late start, 12-week course Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2 to 3:45 p.m. Get published and create a portfolio of your work! The course is an approved transfer elective in many degree programs Email Dr. Tamara Whyte for more details: twhyte@pvcc.edu Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Jessica Adkins Bryn Dotson Callan Shore Online Editor Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Samantha Aldridge Liberty Anderson Francesca Black Cody Clark Bryn Dotson Teddie Frock Kaytlynne Gentry Aleena Haidari Kylie Hoffman Rachel Lemley Deadra Miller Elizabeth Phan Callan Shore Tiana Sigala Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com April 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College Volunteer Club Easter Egg Hunt page 3 Student Financial Resource Center Opens at PVCC Aleena Haidari, staff writer The Student Financial Resource Center is established to accommodate PVCC students needs and assist them with their finances. The Student Financial Resource Center had a grand opening March 28 from 12-2 p.m.. It is open to all PVCC members. The mission of this resource center is to educate, connect, and help PVCC students navigate the resources available to them. The resource center provides numerous resources that students are encouraged to utilize, and it is located in M103. To fulfill their primary mission of educating students about financial literacy, this resource center will have workshops and literacy sessions to assist students with their budgets. They also connect students to PVCC resources and community benefits such as SNAP, TANF, WIC, and energy assistance for car gas. In order to thoroughly assist students with these resources, they help students by applying to the aforementioned benefits. They also help eligible students apply for FAFSA and other forms of aid. If students are not eligible for FAFSA, PVCC offers Scholarships, which are great resources that assist students in applying and paying for school. While the Student Financial Resource Center assists students with financial hardships through the Hudson Foundation and other aids, their primary mission is to educate students about resources that reduce their dependence on benefits. This helps students to be financially literate and independent. Amanda Key, the Financial Resource Center See Financial Center on page 4 In This Issue Grand Opening of the SFRC on March 28. Photo by Callan Shore PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Job Fair - pg. 8 Clubs Theatre -pgs. 13 Animals -pgs. 20-23 Reviews -pgs. 25=27 Classifieds -pgs. 10-11 -pg. 20 DATES TO REMEMBER International Food Festival April 3, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bolick Student Center Women in STEAM Workshop * April 3, 12 -1p.m. Main Building Auditorium M229 PVCC Theatre Presents: Time of My Life April 4, 5, 6, 7:30 p.m., April 7, 2:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Maxwell Theatre Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony * April 9, 4:30 p.m. Main Building East Patio One Mic Stand * April 11, 7 - 9 p.m. Dickinson Building Maxwell Theatre Core Ensemble Performance ^ April 13, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Main Stage Theatre Awards Ceremony and Convocation * April 18, 4 - 5 p.m. Dickinson Building Main Stage Theatre Spring Fling * April 19, 4 - 7 p.m. Dickinson Parking Lot 7th Annual Chocolate Chow Down * April 19, 5-7 p.m. Dickinson Galleries Free Movie Friday: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse * April 19, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Main Stage Theatre PVCC Community Easter Egg Hunt * April 20, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. East Patio and Lawn Virginias Flower the Dogwood Francesca Black, staff writer Charlottesville heats up in the spring with events left and right. The Charlottesville Dogwood Festival is one vital event that celebrates the state flower as well as Virginia in the spring. The festival is broken up into different parts including the Dogwood Carnival, held at McIntire Park. The Dogwood Festival began in the 1950s and stands as one of the longest running Charlottesville events. The carnival portion of the festival runs from April 11 - 28. This includes various stands for food such as caramel apples, funnel cakes, and burgers. There are also multiple rides for all ages including the zipper and the Ferris wheel. T.D. Layman, from the Dogwood Board of Directors, said, The carnival has been a staple of the Dogwood Festival since the beginning 70 years ago. The number of rides we have has increased since the early years and the rides are more thrilling. On April 12, the carnival will light up with the Festivals Firework show. The hours are Monday - Friday 5:30 -10:30 p.m., Saturday 1-11 p.m., and, Sunday 1- 8:30 p.m. Layman added, The most popular part of the carnival is Armband Night. The armband allows you to ride all of the rides, all night long for $20. Armband nights are Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, excluding April 11. On all other nights, a sheet of tickets will be $20 and single tickets will be $1. John McCutheon: Renaissance Man ^ April 27, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Main Stage Theatre * Free Event ^ Student Vouchers Available Photo courtesy of Dogwood Foundation Page 2 Student Government Association News Sophia Keniston, SGA president On March 19, SGA had elections for the Fall 2019 Semester. The new officers are as follows: President Jacob Laxton:, Events Officer Karen Garcia-Rivera, and Executive Senator Rainah Gregory. The remaining open positions will be voted on in Fall 2019. The Spring Fling is coming up on April 19. This event will be in conjunction with the 7th Annual Chocolate Chow Down, and Free Movie Fridays showing of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. The Spring Fling is open to the community and faculty of PVCC. During the event, there will be food trucks, a live band, and an opportunity to take pictures with Spider-Man. Many of PVCCs clubs have a chance to advertise their club during this time as well. Come to celebrate our graduates and the incoming students with this event. Volunteer Club Hosts Free Easter Egg Hunt Samantha Aldridge, staff writer picture for the flier. The only way the event will be completely The Volunteer Club met on March 6 at 12 successful is with the help of volunteers from the p.m. in the main building to discuss the upcoming community and students. The reason we need free Easter egg hunt at PVCC. All five attendees volunteers for this event is because of the labor talked about ideas involving the upcoming egg involved with setting up and running the event. In hunt. They mentioned having face painting, egg the past, they have had over 100 children come to races, and even raffles. hunt for eggs or hang around the campus to do The club guarantees the event is free other activities. Having this many children including concessions. The club spoke about requires supervision. various decorations and The Volunteer Club activities for children to meets every other participate in during the Wednesday. The attendees event. Ideas included Jenga, planned future endeavors chalk, and board games for involving the club. In the inside. past, the club has featured Eventually, they talked movies only to have few about promoting the event people attended, so they with fliers and a picture mentioned promoting the incorporating an Easter egg egg hunt in advance to basket with Pouncer advertise it as soon as (PVCCs mascot). Acting possible. fast, I went to Admissions The club members and Advising Center and wanted to expand asked about someone attendance by putting up dressing up in the costume so fliers and finding other we could quickly get the shot avenues of promotion. they needed. The staff then If anyone is interested told me that I could dress up in volunteering for the in the costume if I wanted to. event contact Todd Platts Photo Courtesy of Todd Platts So I did, and we got the tplatts@pvcc.edu. Page 3 Financial Center, continued from page 1 coordinator, is dedicated to fully supporting and helping students throughout their schooling at PVCC. Though the center did not officially open until March 28, Key has already helped many students who have sought assistance. Key said, I highly encourage all students at PVCC to reach out and seek help and support one another. Key also hopes that students will contribute by volunteering in the clothing stock and food pantry. The Student Financial Resource Center provides pop-up shop clothes for students to prepare for their job interviews. In addition, they provide food from the Pantry to students who lack access to nutrients and sustenance. The Student Financial Resource Center is always seeking volunteers to help out with their clothing stock and food pantry. If anyone is interested in helping their fellow students, reach out to Amanda Key in room M131 or by email at akey@pvcc.edu. There are many resources available at PVCC and in the community that strive to help students be successful, but students must always initiate by seeking assistance. Take Advantage of PVCC Job Search Resources Tiana Sigala, staff writer Thursday, March 19 was the Drop-In Job-Win and LinkedIn Photobooth event in the Bolick Student Center, which offered free, noappointment necessary resume help and LinkedIn Profile Photos. LinkedIn, which is steadily becoming an important resource in the job market, does not have the reputation as a solid source of professional connection that it should among students, according to Job and Internship Coordinator Gigi Davis. Most students dont think theyre ready for LinkedIn, or they think that they are not professional enough, Davis said, but it is a tool for students to make themselves appear professional. For those who are unfamiliar with LinkedIn, it is an online resume that doubles as a social media account. Members are able to list their professional and educational information, as well as interests and experiences, and to connect with other professionals. Though LinkedIn can serve as a medium to invite job offers directly, or to spark interest in employers, Davis says there are students who still consider LinkedIn a social media account their parents might be on. Dismissing the site this way could potentially hurt job seekers. Davis said, Ive actually had companies say that if an applicant isnt on LinkedIn, it could hurt their candidacy. For those intimidated by creating a resume, PVCC has plenty of resources to help get students on the right foot. The Career Services office has an extensive sample resume packet, available by email to those who would like some help getting a resume started. Career Services also offers resume counseling and mock interviews at events like the Drop-In Job-Win or by appointment. These events offer help with questions one may have about a resume, or what students might do to strengthen theirs and help to alleviate anxiety about job interviews by critiquing mock interview performances. There are plenty of Career Services events to look forward to, such as PVCC Workforce Services Health Care Programs Info Session on April 2, 5 - 6:30 p.m., or the Now What? Summer or Full-time Job Search Workshop on April 10, 12-1 p.m. The next Drop-In Job-Win is April 2, from 46 p.m. in the Bolick Student Center. For more information on Career Services or to set up appointments, contact Gigi Davis madavis@pvcc.edu, or Andr Luck aluck@pvcc.edu. Page 4 PVCC Receives Award for Civic Engagement Callan Shore, assistant editor For Americans, voting is a right that had to be fought for, and it is a privilege that is not available in all countries. However, voting is still inaccessible or unimportant to many Americans. According to The Atlantic, 49.3 percent of eligible voters and 31 percent of voters under 29 showed up to vote in the 2018 Midterm Elections. To counter voter inactivity, Connie Jorgensen, Assistant Professor of Political Science, appoints PVCC students to hold events and educate fellow students on voting. For each major election, a group of political science and journalism students creates a bipartisan voter guide which lays out each candidates positions on important issues. Jorgensen has also helped students to organize non-partisan voter drives and mock-debates with students acting as real candidates. Additionally, in 2018, two congressional candidates, Leslie Cockburn and Denver Riggleman, came to debate in PVCCs Dickinson building. Jorgensen said, PVCC is part of a nationwide study, and we are still waiting on the results from 2018 on how many students registered to vote. Due to Jorgensen and students work to encourage young voters, the Campus Vote Project and NASPA (Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education) recently awarded PVCC with the title Voter Friendly Campus. PVCC will hold this title until 2020. The Voter Friendly Campus Initiative is dedicated to enhancing civic engagement and is led by both the Campus Vote Project and NASPA. The Voter Friendly Campus title has not only been awarded to community colleges, but every kind of college, from four-year to private. Liberty University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and James Madison University are among the other Virginia schools that were designated voter friendly for the 2019-2020 school year. Jorgensen said, We are wide open to suggestions for the next election, and we would love to get more clubs and classes involved. In order to get involved with PVCCs effort to get out the vote, email Connie Jorgensen at cjorgensen@pvcc.edu. To learn more about the Voter Friendly Campus initiative, visit www.voterfriendlycampus.org. Students with Connie Jorgensen at the Get Out the Vote Party. Photo courtesy of Connie Jorgensen Page 5 What You Need to Know About Canvas Liberty Anderson, staff writer The Courses tab is an easy way to get from one course to another. Users can also customize PVCC is switching to Canvas this summer, no this to display selected courses, but it will default more Blackboard. It can be a little unnerving to to an All Courses option. When in a course, there learn a whole new system for classes. But we can is the Home option, which is the same as the relax; it is a lot easier than we think. This welcome page for the course. Then there are tabs for Announcements, semester I had the pleasure of being apart of a pilot program using Canvas, so I have learned Modules, Syllabus, Discussions, and Grades. The Announcements are collapsed, making it easy to how it works throughout this spring semester. There are a lot of new features in Canvas, go through and find past announcements when starting with the notifications. Students can pick needed. Next is Modules, a simple way to go and choose which notifications they receive and from week to week. Canvas automatically checks they can select a different email to receive them, off the items that students open in the module. The syllabus has its own tab, making it easy to even if it is not the school email. Settings allow Canvas to access other web tools already in use, find at any moment. In addition, the syllabus tab like Google Drive. Students can go to one place also has a weekly schedule, course summary, and access all of their files. Students can also assignments, and how the class is weighted. write their own biography and add links in Discussions are organized by which board was Profile. All of these features are under Account most recently posted on. One big change from Blackboard is that in each discussion board when on the left side bar. The dashboard is where all courses can be students post the threads are not collapsed. accessed. It has specialized buttons to go directly Students can either scroll down through the to the discussion board, announcements, or the discussion, search for a specific author of the course mainpage for the selected course. Inside post, or click the up arrow to collapse threads. In Grades, students can choose to organize by each course is Home, which takes the user to the welcome page, syllabus, or modules. At the due date, module, or title. After displaying the bottom of the welcome page are links to the To grades, it gives the weighted total and then shows Do list and Recent Feedback. Everything that is how your class grade is weighted. It is possible to due the current week will appear in the To Do list. show all details, which will display the grading All graded assignments will be in Recent criteria for every assignment. Finally, the Calendar displays month by Feedback. month each assignment on the day it is due, color coded by class; the colors are customizable. You can also add personal events to the calendar, making it easy to use for everyday life. The next three are Inbox, Arc, and Help. The Inbox is for sending a message to one of your professors through Canvas. Arc is where instructors can share videos with the class, and students can do the same. Help is where answers to things that do not make The homepage for an ENG 243 course in Canvas sense can be found. Page 6 25th Annual Run for Life 5k Photo courtesy of Zeta Tau Alpha at UVA Run for Life 5k Rachel Lemley, staff writer For 24 years, the students at UVA have joined to race against the threat of breast cancer. People of all ages and areas of life come out to walk for loved ones who were diagnosed or lost their lives to breast cancer. This year on April 6 at 8:30 a.m., the Zeta Tau Alpha sisters are arranging the event, and it already has more than 100 participants. Every dollar goes to the UVA Breast Cancer Center and the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation, which both work towards the research and education of breast cancer treatments. I started running in elementary school when I did a cancer awareness walk, and I have been doing charity walks ever since. I dont do them for the competition; I do it for the cause. said Kelsey Crow, a PVCC student who does the runs and donates to the causes whenever she has can. This 25th Annual Run for Life 5k is held in honor of Paxson MacDonald, who passed away Oct. 7, 2014, due to a brain tumor. She played a big part in the creation of the charity run and in the community as a role model. This run is also in honor of the victims of cancer because breast cancer affects one out of every eight women. There are usually an average of 1,000 participants each year, combining the community of both Charlottesville and UVA. Last years run raised over $30,000 for the cause, using 40 percent in the ZTA foundation and giving 60 percent to the UVA Breast Care Center. Crow said, Make sure to pick the causes based on what you like. Also make sure to stay hydrated and motivated. Keep high energy, but dont let the competition consume you because this is for charity. If you feel discouraged or tired, remember who and what youre running for. Anybody can do these; you dont have to be extremely active. There is a race packet and t-shirt pickup on April 5 at the Whispering Hall and April 6 at Westminster Presbyterian Hall. The registration for the run will be held April 6 at 8:30 a.m. in the center of UVA in a field by McCormick rd. The 5k run will begin at 10 a.m. Everyone is encouraged to sign up (for $20) to participate and support those who are suffering from breast cancer. Page 7 PVCC Hosts 35th Annual Job Fair Deadra Miller, online editor Wednesday, March 27 the Bolick Student Center was bustling with 74 different employers looking for fresh faces to fill their ranks with. Career seekers hoping to find a job ranged in age from high schoolers to middle-aged adults. PVCCs Career Services had one employer come all the way from White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, Greenbrier Sporting Club. Many of the other employers came from around the Charlottesville area. Some employers included two local jails, Central Virginia Regional Jail and Albemarle Charlottesville Regional Jail both of these jails were looking for guards to train for shift. There were three police departmentsAlbemarle County, Chesterfield, and Virginia State Police looking for applicants for more than one position. Four separate media outlets, three of which were radio and one that was geared more towards sales, attended. As far as employers geared toward sales, Prime Communications/AT&T was looking to get an individual starting in sales, with opportunity for movement and promotion within the company. Beth Miller, recruiter for Prime Communications/AT&T, said, We promote within the company, but as you prove what qualifications that you have there is room to grow and move up. She also mentioned that they offer special discounts for veterans. The other three media-oriented employers were Monticello Media, National Radio Astronomy Observatory, and Charlottesville Radio Group. Charlottesville Radio Group was advertising a radio-a-thon for the UVA Childrens Hospital. Educational opportunities included Albemarle County LEAD (Learning, Engineering, Access, and Design) and Averett University. Albemarle County LEAD was looking for potential employees and Averett was looking for new students after graduation. Gigi Davis, M.Ed. job and internship coordinator said, With 2 percent unemployment in Charlottesville, Career Services was uncertain on how many citizens from the community would take advantage of the opportunity. It is rewarding to know that at least 250 seekers participated with more PVCC students than ever inquiring about employment. Career Services here at PVCC continue to send emails out to the student body and post upcoming events on their Facebook page. For more information, email Gigi Davis at madavis@pvcc.edu or Andre Luck at aluck@pvcc.edu. Photo courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations Page 8 Clown Brings Tears and Joy to PVCC Bryn Dotson, assistant editor Tim Cunningham, assistant professor of nursing at UVA and clown for Clowns Without Borders, breezed through PVCCs main building auditorium on Wednesday, March 6. He smiled broadly at the people sitting in the crowd and spoke to them with enthusiastic arm and hand motions. The atmosphere was comfortable and informal, allowing for those in the audience to mingle and interact with one another. Cunningham cleared his throat gently, and the audience settled, watching him intently. He happily described his role at UVA, explaining that his passion for helping people encouraged him to pursue nursing. Cunningham then switched the projector screen from blank to a large picture of a clown. The audience shuffled in their seats. Some of them laughed; some of them stared with expressions of discomfort. After explaining his role as a clown for Clowns Without Borders, Cunningham grinned widely. Ive told people that Im a clown before, and Ive literally seen them go gray in the face, He said, laughing good -naturedly. To begin his presentation, Cunningham asked the audience to find a partner. After everyone had paired up, they performed a variety of different laughing exercises. The first was a counting game that left the room spluttering and giggling. The second was a name introduction game that resulted in hysterical laughter from Cunningham and from the people playing. Through powerful and touching stories of tragedy, Cunningham explained the mission of Clowns Without Borders. This volunteer-run organization reaches out to communities that have been devastated and according to their website, offers joy and laughter to relieve the suffering of all persons, especially children, who live in areas of crisis, including refugee camps, conflict zones, and territories in situations of emergencies. Tears streamed down rosy cheeks as the audience listened to the impact that Clowns Without Borders has made on the world. Sniffles Photography by Bryn Dotson gave way to giggles as Cunningham tactfully displayed a bright red clown nose on the screen. This is our passport, he said, pointing at the display. We have found that wearing the red nose makes us more welcome in situations that would otherwise cause tension. Cunningham ended his presentation by stressing the importance of resilience and laughter in times of struggle. After he had finished, the audience swarmed to him as he began packing his bag. He gracefully answered all of the questions he was asked. He encouraged the room to visit the Clowns Without Borders website at https:// clownswithoutborders.org/. So long as you are breathing, you are able to laugh, Cunningham concluded. Page 9 Phi Theta Kappa Students Achieve Greatness PTK officers: VP of Communications Henry McLane, VP of Scholarship Katie Rabon, VP of Fellowship Virginia Gett, President Elena Cantwell, VP of Records Melissa Stacy, and VP of Service Nicholas Griffin. Photo courtesy of Bruce Robinson. Rachel Lemley, staff writer Phi Theta Kappa has been a leading international honors society in two-year colleges for many years. Their current chapter in PVCC is Alpha Epsilon Tau, which helps students get connected to their communities by public services like helping victims of natural disasters, toy and food drives, charity walks, and environmental activism. This chapter also creates initiatives and goals for the students while letting them take part of the leadership in PTK. What motivated me to be Vice President of Fellowship was that I wanted to be more involved with PTK by having an officer position, said the Vice President of Fellowship Gigi Gett. PTK offers a variety of positions like president, vice president of communications, or vice president of service, that allow students to learn and take charge of the honors society. It also gives access to scholarships, conventions, and seminars, as well as the ability to socialize with others and be part of a supporting, achieving group of peers. Additionally, joining will open many opportunities socially and academically. PTK helps students achieve academic success because not only are scholarships and trips offered, but also it is something great to add to your college applications or resume, Gett said. PTK invites all eligible students at the beginning of Fall and Spring semesters, where they then pay an enrollment fee ($80) and officially join the Alpha Epsilon Tau chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. The students who have not yet been invited are also encouraged to fill out an application form. To be eligible, members or applicants who have 12 to 30 credit hours must be full-time students and have a minimum GPA of 3.5. For those with more than 30 credit hours, they must be full-time students and have a minimum GPA of 3.25. For more information on Phi Theta Kappa or a membership application, visit the Honors Programs page under Academics and click Phi Theta Kappa. The club meets usually on the 20th of every month in room M251 and there is also going to be a 40th induction ceremony of Phi Theta Kappa for the new 96 students joining the chapter. The guest speaker is the Professor of Communications from the Humanities, Fine Arts & Social Division, Dr. Laurie Thurneck. This ceremony will be held on Tuesday, April 9 at 4:30 p.m. and all are invited to join this occasion. Page 10 A Super Smashing Club on Campus Cody Clark, staff writer The club meets every Friday from 2-4 p.m. in room M173. On March 8, the Smash club hosted its first solos tournament, while a duos tournament was hosted on March 21. Both tournaments were open to the public. The atmosphere at the club changed and everyone was focused on their respective matches. However, the usual friendly atmosphere remained and everyone was respectful to one another. One of the duos tournament champions, Damien Pierson, said, Overall, I loved the challenges that the other players brought with them. Made the games more fun and they also helped me improve as a player. Smash club offers a place for those who enjoy the Super Smash Brothers games together, regardless of experience. For those unfamiliar with the franchise, Super Smash Brothers is a long-standing game series that is beloved by fans old and new. The first game in the series, Super Smash Brothers, commonly referred to as Smash 64, was released in 1999 for the Nintendo 64. The sequel to Smash 64, Super Smash Brothers Melee, was released in 2001 for the Nintendo GameCube. Melee was more popular and developed a competitive scene that still has a large following to this day. Fast forward to Dec. 7, 2018, when Nintendo released the most recent Super Smash Brothers game, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate. The Nintendo Switch is a game console that can be used as a hand-held or can be placed in its dock and played as a more traditional console on a TV. The Smash Club uses Super Smash Brothers Ultimate at club meetings. At club meetings there are at least two Nintendo Switches set up for Super Smash Brothers Ultimate. Most Switches are used for casual games with four or more players, while at least one Switch is used for more competitive one-on-one matches. The club president, Alexander Krecek, described their weekly meetings, Its a friendly atmosphere, and were all learning the game Tournament finalists. Photography by Cody Clark together. Page 11 Photography by Teddie Frock Lessons in History and Rhythm Teddie Frock, staff writer On March 7, the sight and sounds of the World Beat Workshop ushered PVCC students into the world of the history and progression of Latin and African music and style. World Beat instructors offered lessons in rhythm worldwide. A large map of the world is used to track this music throughout the world. As Africans experienced cultural and generational displacement, their music and culture traveled with them. While their culture merged with others, the beats and rhythm changed and progressed. Member of UVAs faculty jazz ensemble, Robert Josp, and workshop partner Kevin Davis used drums and percussion instruments through the clave, an instrument as well as a specific rhythm, which allows students to experience the music. The audience was encouraged to participate by using some of the instruments provided and through clapping, dance, and song. The World Beat Workshop began in 1992 and continues through the present with tourist grants from the Virginia Commission of the Arts and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Thousands of students each year are able to experience innovative music at the workshops. The workshops are adaptive, offering a range of young childrens classes to adult classes in college and other settings. Josp is a lifelong musician, artist, and educator with extensive experience in his craft. He has worked with artists and bands all over the world and has released multiple CDs of his music. He joined UVA as a music instructor and is currently a member of the faculty. He is also a member of UVAs Free Bridge Quintet. In addition, he leads several bands, such as Robert Josp Express and Inner Rhythm Quartet, and they play in multiple venues. According to Josps web page, he states, Music has been my source of inspiration for decades. Playing drums brings me happiness every day. If you are interested in learning more about the World Beat Workshop or experiencing the music of his bands, you can find more information at https://www.robertjospe.com/, and on Facebook. Page 12 PVCC Arts Roasts Queen Elizabeth I Tiana Sigala, staff writer On Saturday, March 23 the Dickinson buildings Maxwell Black Box Theatre was filled to the brim with excited community members, there to enjoy PVCCs production of Dario Fos play Elizabeth: Almost by Chance a Woman. The play revolves around Queen Elizabeth I who, in the midst of political upheaval, eagerly awaits her lover the Earl of Essex, who is involved in a coup against her regime. The play takes place primarily in the queens boudoir, where she takes visitors and advisers such as Egerton (played by Professor Kit Decker) or Dame Grosslady (played by three separate actors: Anthony Madison, Connor Campbell, and Vincent Madison), and hilarity ensues. The play is, according to director Brad Stoller, a riot, a mess, an uncontrollable stampede of pure FUN. He asserted that one cannot attempt to get ahold on the play, they should just let it wash over them. This is in part because of the plays use of Grammelot, an onomatopoeic, satirical language used by the cross-dressing Dame Grosslady. Grammelot often mimics or takes rhythm from other languages, giving the impression of meaning more than directly expressing any. Stoller said meaning will not come from the brain, but more settle across you as the play goes on. Its really madcap code-switching, said Professor of Spanish Kit Decker, Its a taunt of words. You can pick out a few and others dont mean anything, but theres sense hidden in there if you can pick it out. This play came to life with an exhaustive effort from actors and production, with rehearsals taking place five days a week, sometimes twice a day. The result was a perfectly choreographed, lively play. The titular character was played by Marie Lotter, and her performance as a monarch with nary a finger on reality was raucous and exciting. Her abuse of characters Martha (Callie Bandy), Dame Grosslady, and Egerton was surprisingly funny to watch. The characters were enveloping and kept eyes bounding across the small stage here and there as the energetic cast made use of every square foot of space, sometimes edging into the audience. PVCC will feature performances of Time of My Life, the story of an unraveling family written by Alan Ayckbourn, on April 4-6 at 7:30 p.m, and April 7 at 2:30 p.m in the Maxwell Black Box Theatre. For more information or to purchase tickets visit the Fine Arts & Performance section of the PVCC website. Photo courtesy of Brad Stoller Page 13 Jessica Salfia and Lynn Waltz Speak at VFOTB Jessica Adkins, assistant editor On Friday, March 22, in the heart of City Council, the Labor Unions and Strikes panel for the Virginia Festival of the Book took place. This was one of the main locations for many VFOTB events. The members of the audience varied in age, but everyone was there for one reason and that was to learn more about authors Jessica Salfia and Lynn Waltz and their books having to do with labor unions and strikes. Lynn Waltz is the author of Hog Wild, a book about the battle for workers rights at the largest slaughterhouse, as written on the cover of her book. She has been nominated two times for the Pulitzer Prize and is a journalist. Waltz mentioned that the book takes place at Smithfield Slaughterhouse in Tarheel, North Carolina. While talking about her book, Waltz said, Labor and the middle class cannot exist without congressional litigation. Jessica Salfia is one of the co-authors of the book 55 Strong. She is also the president of West Virginia Council of Teachers of English, a high school English teacher, and helps run the WVCTE blog. The book shares personal experiences from the West Virginia Teacher Strike of 2018. According to Salfia, striking in West Virginia was illegal in 2016. The reason for the strike in 2018 was the erosion of pay, said Salfia. This meant that teachers pay was being cut by a sufficient amount. Salfia went on to describe the work environment as being, overcrowded and underfunded. Teachers in West Virginia went as far as even holding what Salfia described as, fed up Fridays. As the session ended, audience members were welcomed to buy a book from each author and had the opportunity to get the book signed and speak with the authors. The authors were open to talking about anything relating to books, their lives, and their professions. Eric Riback, Jessica Salfia, and Lynn Waltz begin their panel. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 14 Exploring the Presidential Dress Code Cody Clark, staff writer At the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies on March 24 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Gaye Wilson spoke about her book Jefferson on Display. During her discussion, she described the content in the book and how many of the principals can be seen in politicians today. Wilson summarized her book as, Jefferson in the public arena. She began by talking about how George Washington established the dress code for presidents that came after him. Many people across the United States saw a highly circulated print of the Lansdowne painting of Washington, which would engrain what was seen as the presidential dress code for years to come. Wilson reviewed how this precedent set by Washington contrasts with some politicians today. For example, Jeb Bush would go to rallies in a shirt with rolled sleeves and no tie or jacket. This was so he may connect better with his audience and show he was independent. However, as Vanessa Friedman said, After all, Americans tend to like their presidents to look, well, presidential. And that most often involves a suit. They like them to display respect for the office. And that most often involves a suit. Wilson did reveal one exception Jefferson made to the presidential dress code. In painting of Jefferson, that was commissioned toward the end of his presidency, he wears a fur lined cape that is utilitarian in appearance. The reasons for Jeffersons appearance are somewhat unknown, but it is speculated that it could have a connection to the Lewis and Clark expedition. Jefferson could also be trying to show his more casual side to the public. Similar to how some modern politicians have tried to dress more casually to relate to voters. Conversations About God and Improv Teddie Frock, staff writer On March 27, Charlottesvilles Festival of the Book event, God, Improv and the Art of Living with author Rev. MaryAnn McKibbon Dana took place at the First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. Dana, a Presbyterian minister and mother of three, studied theatre in college and became interested in how people can use improvisation in their lives to help problem solve, create, communicate or resolve the present issues that we face as humans. According to Dana, Life is always handing us things that we couldnt have planned for, so we have to learn to make the best of those circumstances. I have found that the tools of improv, of improv comedy, give us some really surprising ways to do that. In the interactive session, Dana encouraged the audience to participate and express their thoughts about using the techniques to look at situations in a different perspective by using principles of improvisation. Dana talked about several situations that she encountered as a pastor. Improv has allowed her to help them, by encouraging conversations and problem solving during the best and the worst of lifes journey. Those who encounter illness and situations with their children, family and friends are faced with hard decisions and choices for everyone involved. Acknowledgement and acceptance of reality allows them to move in the most positive and productive way possible. She encourages the use of the concept of yes, and. Yes, this is happening, and this is how I can create the best path forward. As Dana explored the art of improv, she found that there are tremendous learnings to be gained from this practice listening to each other, of taking risks, of putting our ideas out there, and also just playing with each other, we dont play enough in our culture. I have found it to be life giving. Page 15 Festival of the Book: Women and War Deadra Miller, online editor Friday, March 22, the Virginia Festival of the Book was in full swing with events all over downtown Charlottesville. In the depths of the city council chambers citizens from all over the U.S. filled seats and listened to a session entitled Women and War: Untold Stories. Heath Lee, author of The League of Wives: The Untold Story of the Women who Took on the U.S. Government to Bring Their Husbands Home, spoke in person, and author Eileen Rivers, who wrote the book Beyond the Call: Three Women on the Front Lines in Afghanistan, joined us via skype. Cliff Haury was the moderator and is a professor emeritus of history at PVCC. Haury started off the session explaining some statistics having to do with past wars such at the Vietnam War. Haury said, 11,028 of the people that served in Vietnam were women, 58,000 listed were KIA (Killed In Action), 585 were POWs (Prisoners Of War) and of the 585 POWs 26 were named. Then he explained how the selective service was deemed unconstitutional in February 2019. Since Rivers came to the conference via Skype, Haury decided to start the questions off with her answering them. Rivers is currently a USA Today editor and a former Washington Post editor. Also, Rivers was a linguist in the U.S. Army who translated Arabic and Spanish for the U.S. Government. Rivers said, I wrote about women who served specifically in Afghanistan, but the stories of these women also stemmed from a battle in 2004 that took place in Ar Ramadi, Iraq when females started to get tasked to all male units to help handle the Arabic females during the elections. One story is of a woman Marine that got invited by Michelle Obama for a State of the Union address to make a point to congress that women suffer in the same manners as men do when it comes to PTSD and TBIs [Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries]. Another story within the book is about one more woman Marine that was pregnant and suffered from PTSD. Her command did not want to believe her when she informed them of the situation. They believed that she was having a stressful pregnancy, not PTSD. Marine Veteran Liz Carlin was the inspiration for Rivers to write about these womens stories. With this book, Rivers hopes to show that women, no matter the branch of service, suffer from many different diagnoses when they return from overseas. In the book Rivers discussed that Veterans Affairs and commands do not want to accept this fact and in turn these women are facing horrible consequences. Women get put into a bad position mentally and physically for being in the military to begin with, and now that women are allowed to enter into combat jobs men are making the situation worse for them. Heath Lee is a Museum Curator and the author of The League of Wives, a fictional book about different women who had to face the government to get tasks accomplished and to live a happy life with their families after the war had ended. Lee also sold the book to Reese Witherspoon to hopefully make it into a movie showing the world what these women went through. Lee has an exhibit at the Virginia Museum of War and Culture currently on display. Eileen Rivers speaking at VAFOB via Skype. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 16 UVA Alumni Reminisce and Read Callan Shore, assistant editor The Virginia Festival of the Book lives in many homes throughout its week-long existence, but one of the most popular locations for book fest events is the UVA bookstore. On Friday morning, March 22, the UVA bookstore parking lot was brimming with action. Lines of cars streamed out of the garage door looking to find a parking spot, and people waited to pay at the meter, shivering and complaining. A woman said to her daughter, You should consider studying systems; you would learn how to solve unnecessary situations like this. The UVA Creative Alumni Reading event was hosted by the UVA Department of Creative Writing and took place on the upper level of the UVA bookstore. It was free to the public, as were the steaming bagels and cheese spreads. UVA Alumni Laura Eve Engel, Libby Burton, James McLaughlin, and Valencia Robin read excerpts from their most recent works of poetry and creative writing. Libby Burton, my cousin, took the wooden podium first and introduced herself by thanking her parents and two of her teachers, Lisa Russ Spaar and Debra Nystrom, who sat in the audience. Her poetry book Soft Volcano focuses on sex, death, and the small human moments in between. Soft Volcano was selected by Ross Gay as the winner of the 2017 Saturnalia Books Poetry Prize. Laura Eve Engel followed after Burton and revealed that she and Burton were undergraduate students together at UVA. Engels book Things that Go is based around a biblical story, but expands out to discuss topics such as ISIS and the American West in a poetic voice. Publishers Weekly called Things That Go a nimble, philosophical debut. Engel also thanked her teachers who sat in the folding chairs in front of her, and they beamed at their accomplished alumnus. James McLaughlin was third to read, and he Laura Eve Engel reads Things That Go. Photography by Callan Shore began by saying, The gestation period for my book was longer than everyone else here. I started working on this book in the 90s, and I published it last year. McLaughlins Bearskin strayed from the other featured works because it is a novel, as opposed to a collection of short works. Bearskin is about the intersection of life and unfiltered nature. McLaughlin was named one of 4 Writers to Watch This Summer by the New York Times in May 2018. The final reader was Valencia Robin. Robin is the author of Ridiculous Light, a book of poems. Robin is also a painter and created her own cover art for the book. She is the winner of Persea Books 2018 Lexi Rudnitsky First Book Prize in Poetry. Page 17 Richmond Ballet Mesmerizes Audience Bryn Dotson, assistant editor singing an intense opera piece, bringing the dancers to life. They moved elegantly with one The parking lot outside of the Dickinson another in correspondence with the music, theater was packed and bustling. The theater was synchronized in every moment and timed overflowing with sound and chatter as everyone perfectly. settled into their seats. People sat together tightly The audience was silent, all of them looking with their arms often touching due to how intently down at the stage with wide eyes. The populated it was. They were all gathered to opera music used throughout the performance was witness Richmond Ballets dancers perform for graceful and haunting, fitting the dancers as they the evening. moved in erratic The audience but controlled seemed to grow movements all impatient as time over the stage. ticked by. The Many times, the show was meant dancers broke off to begin at 7:30 into couples and p.m. but the danced to their heavy red stage own songs. When curtain did not a dancing duet show any signs of was on stage, the movement. It was music shifted to not until nearly something softer 7:45 p.m. when and sweeter. two men walked Despite Image 0595 - Dancers of Richmond Ballet in Requiem by out to introduce knowing when a Nicole Haskins. Richmond Ballet 2018. the show. Harry dance had ended, All Rights Reserved. Photo by Sarah Ferguson. Stillerman, vice there was little president of room for institutional advancement and development at applause. As soon as one song ended, another PVCC, spoke first. Please enjoy the show and began. An uproar of applause erupted as soon as we hope that you will come again and come intermission began. Intermission lasted around often, he said. 15 minutes, allowing for bathroom breaks even He introduced Val Thompson, a news director with a line. from CBS19, who concluded their short The second and final act began without a introduction by saying, It is so important to be in hitch. As the dancers moved gracefully over the awe now and again. stage, their faces were pinched with The men exited the stage and made their way concentration. Some of them kept a straight face back behind the curtain. The lights in the theater throughout the whole performance while others dimmed, shrouding the audience in near-darkness. smiled happily when they landed a pose. A white spotlight illuminated the burgundy Once the performance wrapped up, the crowd curtain, growing brighter and brighter until the burst into clapping and cheering. The dancers curtain split open and revealed the dancers sitting received a standing ovation and bowed with giant on their knees with their backs to the audience. smiles lighting up their faces. The stage was decorated simply, with exposed For information on upcoming shows, visit lightbulbs hanging at varying lengths from the Richmond Ballets website at https:// ceiling, casting a dark amber glow over the www.richmondballet.com/. dancers. The room remained silent like everyone Madison Light, a student at Albemarle High was holding their breaths. School, said, It really was mesmerizing. If I Abruptly, a deep voice came over the could watch that all day and all night, I absolutely speakers. A man with a rich, smooth voice began would! Page 18 Bert Kreischer Amuses Washington, D.C. Cody Clark, staff writer The theatre was dark and the light was on focused on the stage where Bert Kreischer stood. He said, When I was 22, I got involved with the Russian mafia; heres how it happened. The crowd roared in response. Many in the crowd had already heard the story before, but not live from the Machine himself. Kreischer grew up in Tampa, Florida. His rise to fame began when he was featured in the Rolling Stone article while he was attending Florida State. He would then go on to do stand up comedy and appear in television shows. He has become well known for taking his shirt off during performances, much of his material handles some controversial subjects, and his humor can be crude. On March 16, Kreischer was at the Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C., as apart of his Body Shots tour. The doors opened at 9:30 p.m., and the show started at 10:30 p.m. The opener, Shane Torres, was positively The Lincoln Theatre. Photography by Cody Clark Bert on stage. Photography by Lillian Miller received by the crowd, and according to my friend, Lillian Miller, who frequents comedy shows, Its not often that the opener is actually funny. Once Torres left the stage, and Kreischer came on, the stage the crowd got excited with many screaming The Machine! Kreischer came on to the stage with jeans, a shirt, and a fedora. The shirt was promptly removed as he began to talk about how he would prepare material for a barista at Starbucks. Later Kreischer told the story of how he got his first gun then lost it. Next was the story of his daughters going through puberty and getting their first periods. Kreischer then told the story of his dad talking to an owl while high on marijuana. After that was the much anticipated story of how Kreischer joined the Russian mafia and robbed a train. Finally, the night ended with a story about how Tracy Morgan got out of paying a bill by starting a bar fight. The crowd applauded as Kreischer finished his last story. My friend, Lillian Miller, had this say, I thought that he was very unique mixture of family, life, and party life that allows him to relate to a very wide audience. He also isnt afraid to laugh at himself. Page 19 Callan Shore rides in the Coliseum at the Virginia Horse Center. Photography by Callan Shore Virginia Horse Show Season Kicks Off Callan Shore, assistant editor It is 5 a.m., and the pitch-black air carries a tense energy, but the barn is already bustling with action. Little girls in braids shake their ponies awake, and trainers begin the feeding process. This is life on the A-rated horse show circuit. Horse shows require hard work and commitment, but trainer Will Brown said, Until youre relying on this sport for a living, you dont have to be perfect; it is okay to make mistakes. Under the United States Equestrian Federation, horse shows range from C-rated to Arated. C-rated shows are often known as local shows and are the least competitive, whereas Arated shows have higher stakes. The horse show season typically begins around February and ends in August, but there are shows scattered throughout the off-season as well. The Lexington Spring Welcome Show at the Virginia Horse Center kicks of the Virginia show season every year. This year, the show took place March 1-4. A typical day at an A-rated show, such as Lexington, begins with schooling. To school means to exercise a horse prior to showing them and is a necessary exercise for all competitors. However, the window of time to school before the show begins is very small, which results in the schooling ring being crowded. Horses pin their ears back as they pass each other, and riders yell heads up as they fly over jumps. After schooling, riders typically untack their horses and spray their saddle area with alcohol to dry the sweat. The Lexington showgrounds are complete with eight barns, 600 acres, nine show rings, and a coliseum that seats 4,000. The riders who jump three foot three inches or higher compete in the coliseum. For a team who have never showed under the bright lights and vaulted ceilings of the coliseum before, it can be intimidating. Anxiety when showing is a common obstacle for riders, especially because horses are receptive and can reciprocate human feelings. Competing every weekend, working hard every day and perhaps sacrificing a social life can result in you becoming obsessed about reaching a certain place or achieving certain results. You get caught up in every day work and forget why you started riding in the first place, said Annette Paterakis in an article on noellefloyd.com. In order to find out about upcoming shows and events at the Virginia Horse Center, visit https://vahorsecenter.org/. Page 20 National Zoo Charms an Ordinary Day Francesca Black, staff writer Living in Central Virginia offers a multitude of options for day trips. A few hours in any direction lands you by the ocean, in the mountains, or, in my case this week, the big city: the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C. The Smithsonian Institute provides free museums and parks including the vast National Zoo in the heart of D.C. The sprawling park focuses on education and conservation efforts, while allowing visitors to experience animals from around the world. Since the multiple entrances are integrated into the city, the park feels like a secret garden. The weather was beautiful, and the animals active. The zoo is broken up into sections based on each continent, which made the experience fluid. The American Trail dipped down into the California sea lion exhibit, while the reptile house boasted a massive komodo dragon. The zoologists give informative demonstrations throughout the day such as the North American river otter feeding and the Ruppells griffon vulture information session. The vulture handler surprised listeners by saying, Vultures can digest a number of harmful pathogens including anthrax and the plague. In Panda. Photography by Francesca Black the Amazonia exhibit, guests walk through an open air greenhouse with exotic birds and sloths in the canopy. The giant panda was a major attraction. The huge bears sat right in front of the glass and tore into their bamboo. If you are looking for a cheap, informative, and entertaining day trip, the National Zoo is a great destination. Asian Elephant. Photography by Francesca Black Page 21 Connecting Pets and Owners for 150 Years Rachel Lemley, staff writer For many years, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has provided homes and care to animals without a family or home. This organization has been running since 1866 to prevent wrongful treatment of pets throughout the U.S. and expanded into a large international operation, opening care centers across the globe for a variety of furry friends. The SPCA in Charlottesville has been a staple of the community, allowing families to gain new members and people to meet lifelong companions. Even if adopting is not an option for some, the Charlottesville SPCA keeps their doors open for those who simply want some playtime with their favorite animals. Our main goals are for the pets to know whats happening and for them to not be confused, and not be scared, and for them to be as comfortable as possible while they are here. And Photography by Rachel Lemley to eventually find a home that suits them, said Alissa Smith, a cat specialist who has worked for nine years at the CSPCA. Smith helps with cat communication, behavior, and training not only for the animals but for their caretakers. She even makes special binders containing biographical pages for the cats, showing their likes, dislikes, hobbies, and pasts. A major part of her job is pairing cats with owners that they will be comfortable with and bringing out the best in their personalities because each cat is different. She also makes sure that the situation and transition for the cats go as smoothly as possible, taking care of the especially stressed out cats and being there for those with rough pasts. She provides home visits which are helpful to teach owners how to let their new pets acclimate to new environments. The CSPCA creates a calm environment for the dogs and cats after all they have been through. Soft music plays through the speakers, toys litter the floor, and a soft blanket covers the floor of each cage. All animals are given food that agrees with their specific diets and plenty of cuddles and playtime. It has many rooms depending on the type of animal and their personalities. The dogs stay on one side of the building with a play area and walking trail, while the cats are separated depending on their behaviors and ages. The pets are placed with whomever they have bonded with, or who they feel the most comfortable with. This means pairs like brothers and sisters are never separated. If the animals have anxiety or stress, then they have their own area to be able to slowly come to terms with their situation. There was one cat who was an owner surrender, so she was in the basement in a room for cats who are difficult, and she had been screaming and was irritable and very upset. I sat at the front of the cage with her and just kind of got in the moment with her. I told her I was really sorry for what happened and that she wasnt alone and she would get through it. I closed my eyes and when I opened them she was at the front of the cage rubbing her face against the bars. From then on, you could touch her. Once she was acknowledged for what she was feeling, she could shake it off and move on, Smith said. Page 22 Local Food Thrives in Free Union Photo courtesy of Lauren Read Francesca Black, staff writer The terms free range and organic suffer some serious misuse these days. The USDA and National Organic Program (NOP) provide broad definitions of these terms, allowing for a lot of what actually goes on to be muddled. However, local farms such as Free Union Grass Farm provide clarity. Local food, which is defined as food grown within 100 miles of retail, helps the community navigate the many answers to whats for dinner. Lauren Read, manager of Free Union Grass Farm, along with many other local farmers, is passionate about putting out products that taste great without sacrificing sustainability. The lush landscape and fertile soil raises happy animals. The differences between small farms and the industrial farms that dominate U.S. food production are very important to recognize when choosing what to eat. Read said, In small farming operations, especially those that are committed to sustainable farming practices, you are more connected to the land because your product is dependent upon the natural elements -- sun, air, dirt, and water -- to grow and thrive. She expanded, while holding a chicken, You get the satisfaction of knowing that the meat came from an animal that was doing all the things its biologically meant to -- be under the sun, exercise, eat the food its body is able to digest. Everything has more character, and it is made obvious when you sink your teeth into that meal. Read explained about the lasting effects of the local food movement as well, saying, The quality of the food that comes from small farms is why the small farm movement has continued to grow, and is proving to be not just a passing fad. In Charlottesville and in much of Virginia, local food is alive and well. Free Union Grass Farm raises cows, ducks, chickens, geese, and pigs that they then sell as product such as whole chicken and breakfast sausage. In addition to many Charlottesville restaurants, Free Union Grass Farm products can be purchased through the downtown City Market, held Saturday mornings starting April 6, or directly from the farm during farm stand hours, Fridays from 1-6 p.m. These purchases allow the local food systems to continue and to grow. Read added, Local businesses are good for the local economy because they keep money in the community. Page 23 Exploring Abandoned Houses for Fun Samantha Aldridge, staff writer getting in contact with asbestos, falling debris, and other harmful toxins. These places are There has been a heavy rise in urban and rural typically rotting considering the fact that they exploration throughout the world because of the have had very little care and maintenance done to mere curiosity for a fresh shot of something them after their owners leave. unusual. Everyday my timeline on Instagram is Plashal said, Originally I was worried about full of posts from explorers searching high and unfriendly property owners until I quickly learned low for the newest abandoned attractions. I how friendly and accommodating Virginia recently spoke with two urban explorers that have landowners are. Now, its the structural integrity ventured across miles of Virginia to see these of the places I enter, potential toxicity of the places. Taylor Parker and John Plashal regularly interiors, and being careful exploring rural areas explore abandoned places and document their during hunting season. experiences on Instagram. Something many explorers experience are This exploring involves photographing, some forms of vandalism in the abandoned entering, and examining places. Many explorers the contents and structure despise vandalism of abandoned places. because of the damage it People all over the world does. When asked about have created a community vandalism Parker said, of interested individuals in Vandalism is the most this peculiar activity. disrespectful thing you According to Plashal, can do to an old home. explorer and writer, he These places are full finds these places by aerial of history and memories maps and interviewing and its a shame to see locals. The action of that people dont care exploring is liberating for about that. I always people with the thrill of respect the properties being surrounded in the and try to get permission unknown. Now people from the owners. have made livings by Plashal also hates creating content vandalism and incorporating abandoned mentioned that Virginia Abandoned Home. places with videos, thankfully does not have Photo courtesy of Taylor Parker photography, and much vandalism in explaining the history abandoned homes. behind them. People are fascinated by it. Overall, explorers venturing into abandoned Wanting to know the inspiration behind why houses will continue to gain attention as time people enjoy doing this, I asked explorer Parker. goes. Houses and places will continue to become He said, Whenever I find an abandoned home I abandoned because of the sad reality Plashal wonder what life was like for the families that addressed at the end of our interview saying, lived there. These homes are full of history and Elderly parents die, estates, inheritance and wills memories. Thats why I document them because get messy with siblings. Relationships get ruined. one day they wont be there anymore. Old places Lawyers get involved. The place goes into are usually full of items left behind by families probate. that tell stories to the people visiting. Sometimes These explorers will continue to investigate people find old pictures, articles, and even the history and document their findings until there clothing from the previous owners that add to the is nothing left. Anyone can follow their journey mystery of the place. on Instagram @johnplashalphoto and Explorers entering run down buildings risk @explorewithtaylor. Page 24 Escaping Reality in the Escape Room Rachel Lemley, staff writer The Charlottesville Downtown Mall has a good variety of things to do, and one good way to spend a day is locked in a room. Escape Rooms are fun ways to use the mind while going through thrilling or chilling tasks. The Cville Escape Room has many different kinds of rooms involving puzzles and clues for all ages. Some of the themes include Jack the Rippers London, Archaeologists Adventure, Sherlock: Moriartys Revenge, Conspiracy X, and Paris: Le Chat et la Souris. Every few weeks, the Escape Room will bring back a retired theme for one day, and the one that my friends and I ended up attending ($25 per person) was that of the Mad Scientist. We ascended a long, steep staircase and were shown into a large office room with posters that had deformed versions of inspirational quotes. After a short wait, two people in lab coats came in to explain what to expect, what to do, and how to play the game. We were ushered into a shadowfilled room, where the door was shut immediately behind us and we waited in the pitch dark. A few seconds in, some flickering fluorescent lights came on, exposing the disturbing contents of the quarters. The walls were covered with diagrams and maps of the human body, most of which were splattered in fake blood, and shelves of imitation bones and skulls were placed around the area. The floor was decked with an array of lock boxes and in the middle of the room was a body on a steel table half draped in a sheet. After surveying our situation, one that we have never been in before, we collected a first clue and started the attempt to get out. The clues ranged from creepy poems to vague warnings of what would happen if our time ran out. There were about 30 different clue cards, all matching to boxes that had either key holes or pass codes. The first card said, Look at the mind in a different light. We found a black light lamp and traveled around each of the skulls, finally finding one word on the inside of one of the heads, Safe. We typed the word and one of the boxes finally clicked open to reveal three unattached arms, all wearing watches with different times, which we put in to unlock yet another box. This one had a crumpled up note with a few words circled in bright red. Following much speculation, our group split up so we could find the final key before time ran out. About half an hour later, a drawer inside the desk of the scientist was open and the last key lay inside. With only minutes to spare, one of us rushed to the glass box on the wall that held a large button that would finally let us out. Pictures were taken, then our group left, feeling different, smarter, and free. The Escape Room is open on Friday 5-9 p.m. and both Saturday and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with many different rooms for all kinds of interests. Photography by Rachel Lemley Page 25 Amicis Italian Bistro Serves Scottsville Teddie Frock, staff writer Amicis means friends in Italian. This is the philosophy that is used by Sal Mini, Alex and Joe Lentini in their family business that includes three restaurants. Sal is Alexs father and runs Sals Restaurant in Fork Union. Alexs husband Joe runs Pinos Restaurant in Dillwyn. When Alex and Joe married nine years ago, they opened Amicis in Scottsville which incorporated Alexs vision of Italian restaurant dining. The family is from Sicily, where many of their extended family still live. The menu is varied, and all of the main dishes are freshly made per order. The tomato sauce and pizza dough are Sals original recipes. Diners can choose from antipasti (appetizers), soups, salads, classic Italian main dishes, pizza, subs, calzones, strombolis and many Italian desserts. There is also a kids menu, as well as American-style burgers. Customers can make their decisions while sipping on a glass of vino from the choice of wines they offer, Jenny, a long- time waitress at the restaurant said, No one leaves without taking home leftovers as the portions are so large. As this reporter can attest, the food is delicious For example, Penne Puttanesca is Diced roma tomatoes, black olives, mushrooms, capers, garlic and basil simmered with olive oil and served tossed over penne pasta. The cost for this dish served with salad and house made bread knots is $12.95. The aroma of Italian cooking and beautiful presentation of the dishes gives diners a true Italian experience. Customers will also enjoy the Italian Bistro atmosphere with outside tables, as well as a tastefully decorated, art- filled interior that makes them feel as though they have truly entered Little Italy. Amicis lives up to its name with their warm and friendly atmosphere with staff, and their small family business origins. It is a great place to visit and no one will leave hungry. Consider coming to Scottsville for a great dine in or take out experience, while enjoying the many activities that Scottsville has to offer. As Grandma says, Chi mangia bene, mangia mediteraneo! Eat well, eat Mediterranean! Amicis friendly staff. Photography by Teddie Frock Page 26 Little Star Fires up Delicious Food Francesca Black, staff writer In the ever-evolving Charlottesville food scene, creating a restaurant with a unique vision is rare. Little Star does just that. This new gem on W. Main Street serves up Spanish and Mexican inspired dishes with bold direction. At the center of the experience sits the wood fired grill. The grill smoke permeates many of the dishes which range from small plates to a few entree size portions. These strong flavors, along with the beautiful tile and wood fixtures adorned with plants and flowers, create a feeling of home. We started with the Jamn Ibrico ($16), a luscious cured ham that crowns the kitchen window, along with the lemony fried squid ($12) and escalivada ($10), a subtle dish of marinated vegetables. The beef tartar ($14) shone with grilled cactus and pillowy parmesan, dotted with mustard seeds and served with grilled bread. A spicy finish came in the form of pork spare ribs ($16), smothered in a citrusy, chili pepper sauce that everyone at the table wanted Pork Spare Ribs. Photography by Francesca Black more of. Little Star also has an extensive, dynamic Overall, with its play on subtlety and wine and cocktail list. I had a glass of La intensity, texture and acid, Little Star shines. Cuadrilla ($14), one of the several wines offered Although pricey, this place is definitely an by the glass, and it paired perfectly with the experience rather than just simply dinner. The acidic, buzzing flavors. The service felt smooth restaurant is open at 5 p.m. everyday except and the staff were knowledgeable as well as Sunday. personable. This place is worth every penny. Page 27 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Jessica Adkins Bryn Dotson Callan Shore Online Editor Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Samantha Aldridge Liberty Anderson Francesca Black Cody Clark Bryn Dotson Teddie Frock Kaytlynne Gentry Aleena Haidari Kylie Hoffman Rachel Lemley Deadra Miller Elizabeth Phan Callan Shore Tiana Sigala Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com March 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College UVA President James Ryan Honored at PVCC Jessica Adkins, assistant editor On Wednesday, Jan. 30, UVAs President James E. Ryan gave a speech to faculty and staff in PVCCs North Mall Meeting Room. The large glass-walled room was filled with faculty members congregating while eating hor d'oeuvres. The weather outside was cold and windy which led to the brief power outage. President Ryan arrived shortly after the power outage and began mingling with attendees. The ceremony began by PVCCs President Frank Friedman introducing President Ryan. He described the 30-year partnership between UVA and PVCC through transfers, grants, and scholarships. President Friedman also mentioned that PVCC is no longer the number one school of transfers to UVA; Northern Virginia Community Preview the VA Festival of the Book on page 12 College is now number one. After introducing President Ryan, President Friedman gave him gifts on behalf of PVCCs faculty and staff. The first one was a running t-shirt because President Ryan used to run while attending Yale University. He also gave him a PVCC office chair. After receiving the gifts, President Ryan began speaking to the audience. He started by speaking about the partnership between UVA and PVCC then went into a background of where he came from. President Ryan was a first generation college student who attended Yale University as an undergraduate. He then went to study law at UVAs School of Law. After graduating top of his class, Ryan became the dean of Harvards Graduate School of Education. After serving as dean, President Ryan was then sworn in as See President on page 4 In This Issue Photo Courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Tax Help -pg. 6 Activism -pgs. 10-11 Arts -pgs. 12-17 Volunteers Sports Classifieds -pg. 20-21 -pgs. 22-23 -pg. 20 DATES TO REMEMBER Clowns Without Borders * March 6, 12-1 p.m. Main Building M229 World Beat Workshop * March 7, 12:30-1:30p.m. Dickinson Main Stage Theatre Spring Break * March 11-15 Theatre of the Oppressed Workshop * March 11, 10 a.m.-1p.m. Dickinson Building D202 Richmond Ballet ^ March 13, Dickinson Main Stage Theatre Third Fridays Improv* March 15, 6-7 p.m., Maxwell Theatre (Black Box) Free Movie Friday: On the Basis of Sex * March 15, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Auditorium Drop-In Job-Win LinkedIn Photo Booth * March 19, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Bolick Student Center Human Library * March 20, 12-1:30 p.m. Betty Sue Jessup Library Classroom Elizabeth: Almost by Chance a Woman ^ March 21,22,23, 7:30-9:30 p.m., March 24, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Dickinson Building D 202 PVCCs 35 Annual Job Fair 2019* March 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Main Building Bolick Student Center and North Mall Meeting Room Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra^ March 31, 3-5 p.m. Dickinson Building Main Stage * Free Event ^ Student Vouchers Available Creating Art for Valentines Day Teddie Frock, staff writer On Valentines Day, local artist Patricia Leavitt provided time and space in the Dickinson Art Building for students and faculty to create a valentine to express their love in an artistic way. At the back hall of the Dickinson Arts Building, Leavitt appeared with a multitude of art supplies ready to be transformed into an expression of love. There were three large tables, filled with color texture, paper, paint, glitter, and other art mediums. Throughout the year, Leavitt collects supplies that any budding and willing artist could use to create a personal and unique valentine for their loved ones. The art project was available to anyone interested. Through active interaction, Leavitt encouraged the artists to search through all the mediums and choose what spoke to them. The space was warm, inviting, and fun for all who participated. During the creation of the art, there was space for conversation and verbal expression of thoughts. After finishing, everyone left with a creative and unexpected gift. Leavitt presents the Valentine workshops yearly at various venues in the community. She considers this to be a calling. It is an expression of love for me to do this for the community and provide time and space for a creative, permissive activity, Leavitt said. She encourages everyone to think about expressing their love in more than just a traditional sense. Next year she is sure to be found somewhere around Charlottesville, expressing love with art and inviting you to come and enjoy the experience. Page 2 Student Government Association News Sophia Keniston, SGA president The SGA is planning a family friendly Spring Fling for Friday April 19, 4-7 p.m. in the Dickinson Building Parking Lot aligning with the Chocolate Chow Down in the South Gallery of Dickenson Building and preceding the Free Movie Friday of Spider-Man: Into the SpiderVerse. Students, faculty, staff, and their families are invited. Possible activities include face painting, and a dunk tank. There will be various PVCC clubs on hand interacting with the PVCC community that attends. During the month of February, the SGA accepted five new members into its ranks. SGA is accepting candidate bids for President, Vice President, Secretary, Events Officer, Public Relations Officer, and Student Voice Representative. The election for these positions will be held March 19 and candidates must be a current SGA member to run for one of these offices. SGA would like to thank the student body for the amounting interest in the Sexual Education Week festivities. SGA Supports Sex Education at PVCC Jessica Adkins, assistant editor PVCCs SGA partnered with Charlottesville Health Department to inform PVCCs community about sexual education and why it is important to know the facts that are related. Sex Education week took place Feb. 12 through Feb. 14. The first day of sex education week featured a representative from the Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA). SARA had a table set up in the Bolick Center and were answering questions. The second day of sex education week included a game of Jeopardy to test ones knowledge. PVCC student Tyrik Hawkins was surprised to find out he knew more than he thought he knew due to prior sex education classes taken in Greene County Public Schools. On the last day of sex education week, representatives from the Charlottesville Health Department came to PVCC to give a seminar on all topics related to sex. They were originally going to set up and give the talk in PVCCs auditorium in the Main Building but decided to just set up tables in PVCCs Bolick Center to access a larger audience. The technique worked as more people were interested in what was happening. One particular aspect that seemed to catch peoples eye was the free condom selection. The Charlottesville Health Department had various types and brands of condoms that were free to take. This could be beneficial for people who are not comfortable with going out and spending money on things like this, said Tyrik Hawkins. They had selections of condoms ranging from typical pre-lubed condoms to glow in the dark condoms. If a person is allergic to latex, they can contact Charlottesville Health Department for access to free non-latex condoms. Another aspect that caught peoples attention was the fact that the Charlottesville Health Department offers free, on-site testing for various sexually transmitted diseases. For more information regarding sexual health, please contact a local health department at (434) 9726200. Photo Courtesy of Jan Newcomb Page 3 President, continued from page 1 UVAs ninth president. After talking about his background, President Ryan spoke about PVCCs faculty and staff. President Ryan said, PVCC plays an [important] role in our community. He then went on to speak about the connections between UVA and PVCC and how staff from UVA teach at PVCC and how staff from PVCC teach at UVA. I dont think a four-year college degree is for everyone, but those who are persistent should be able to, President Ryan said as he spoke about the multiple pathways to a four year degree. He ended his speech by thanking PVCC staff for the continued partnership with UVA. Photo Courtesy of PVCC Marketing & Media Relations Evening PVCC Lockdown Drill Bryn Dotson, assistant editor Campus was quiet at 6:55 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 18. Some students mingled in small groups outside of Perk Up cafe, a few focused on their screens in the Bolick center, and others hastily walked to class. In the library, it was silent. The second PVCC lockdown drill of the day was just about to happen. While students clicked away on their keyboards and scribbled with their pencils, the librarians prepared the library for the drill. All of the students in the library stay pretty composed, one of the librarians explained, motioning at the quiet room. Its just business as usual here. As 7 p.m. approached, the energy in the room remained the same. The librarians flanked the opposing sides of the library, locking doors and turning off lights as they went. One student tried to leave but realized they were locked in; another rushed from a study room into the main room. The librarians nestled into their chairs and waited. After a few minutes, a sharp alarm sounded over the speakers and every cell phone and computer in the room chimed. The first text message came in stating, DRILL-LOCKDOWN immediately. Stay in a secure location until further notice. Disregard alarms. Following directly after was the message that there were gunshots heard and an active shooter on campus. The monitors of the schools computers first went blank, then displayed the message WARNING in red and ACTIVE SCHOOL SHOOTER ON CAMPUS in bright yellow letters. Many peoples faces scrunched as they stared at the words displayed on the screens, and others frantically grabbed their phones. As soon as the drill began, it was over. The alarms ceased, screens returned to their original state, and students settled back into their chairs. Hissing whispers circulated through the room as students began packing up. A couple of students inquired about the nature of the drill; others asked if the active shooter message was intentional. Vice President of Finance and Administrative Services Kim McManus explained that an error had been made when sending out the drill messages. The active shooter message went out instead of the planned drill message. Thanks to our social media team, we were able to quickly respond to peoples concerns, McManus said. That said, we do empathize with the people that were scared or frightened. The morning drill was carried out without a hitch. Page 4 PVCC ranked No. 1 Military Friendly College Jessica Adkins, assistant editor PVCC has been given the honorable award from Victory Media of being rated No. 1 in Military Friendly schools amongst small community colleges for the 2019-20 school year. Military students make up approximately 10 percent of PVCCs enrollment. PVCCs Military and Veterans Adviser Jacquelyn Fisher said in a press release, We are honored to be recognized as a Military Friendly designated school. As a Navy veteran and PVCC alumna, I can truly say that it is a team effort that involves commitment from our dedicated administrators, faculty, staff, and community partners. Our campus-community connections are key as we work together to ensure the entire spectrum of military students has the resources and support needed to successfully navigate their way through college and develop career pathways. We are proud to offer comprehensive services including admissions, academic advising, tutoring, coaching, financial counseling disability services, and career counseling, said Fisher. PVCC offers a wide range of benefits for veterans and their families, such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill, commonly known as Chapter 33, Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30), and Dependent Educational Assistance (DEA or Chapter 35). Along with Fisher, a team of Veterans Affairs work study students help PVCC students through these processes. According to the press release, Now in its 10th year, the Military Friendly Schools list seeks to provide a comprehensive guide for veterans and their families using data sources from federal agencies and proprietary survey information from participating organizations. Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey completed by the school. Students needing help can go to M132 to speak to Fisher or her assistants. Students can find more information on https://www.pvcc.edu/ admissions/steps-to-enrollment/veteran. The May issue of G.I. Jobs magazine will include the 2019-2020 Military Friendly Schools list. Visit militaryfriendly.com for more details. PVCCs Military Friendly Award. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 5 AARP Foundation Offers Free Tax Assistance Teddie Frock, staff writer Free tax assistance will be available at the PVCC main campus starting Feb. 2 until April 13 every Friday and Saturday from 9-11 a.m. The deadline for filing taxes this year is April 15. The AARP Foundation provides tax assistance through the IRS Vita program. Individuals or families that make less than $58,000 per year are eligible for assistance. This is a walk-in service that is available to the general public as well as PVCC students. Volunteers are trained to assist the public in completing their taxes. PVCC provides space and computers. They will e-file state and federal taxes and can complete paper forms for those who need them. Bill ONeil coordinates the PVCC site and Ebin Morrows coordinates the district which includes the sites at PVCC, The Center, Northside, Nelson, and Fluvanna Libraries. We usually assist about 30-40 people each day and approximately 85 percent of the clients are returning from the previous year, said Site Director ONeil. The staff is available to anyone who has a tax question. There are changes to the 2018 tax laws that the staff can explain. To prepare to meet with the AARP Foundation staff, bring all income information including W-2s, 1099 forms for Social Security and other income, a photo ID and an SSN card number. Also bring previous year taxes and checking or savings account information if needed, to have direct deposits of refunds deposited to your account. If you plan to take itemized deductions, bring a 1098 form that shows interest paid on mortgages, health insurance expenses, and the forms that show day care, educational expenses, and interest. If you have any questions about taxes, even if you do not meet the criteria, do not hesitate to ask an AARP tax aide. Understanding PVCCs Honors Program Samantha Aldridge, staff writer The PVCC honors program is an immersive program that prepares its students for transfer and overall educational gains. Honors Program Coordinator Ann Marie Plunkett said, The most important thing to note about the honors program is that it provides interactive, smaller size classrooms for like-minded students. The program allows students to develop communication, the ability to work in teams,, and to learn hands-on skills. The requirement to be accepted into the program must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 or students who wish to take an honors course without being in the program must meet the prerequisites to enroll in that course. Some students confuse the honors society and the honors program, but they are different. The honors society highlights involvement with Phi Theta Kappa while the honors program only entails taking honors courses. Students affiliated with the program are generally applying competitively to other schools, want to take advantage of all learning opportunities at PVCC, or want to receive an honors diploma. The honors program includes benefits such as having separate scholarship opportunities specifically for honors students. The students participate in extracurricular activities that include leadership development which may qualify them for other unique scholarships. Members also receive assistance and support with internships and transferring. The group of honors students is vastly diverse in age, with the youngest students being around 14 and the oldest in their 50s. The program allows volunteer activities. One of the recent activities the honors students did involved helping The International Rescue Committee receive clothing donations for Charlottesville refugees. The classes offered are typically core classes and count toward an associate degree. The classes can be accessed on the PVCC website. If anyone has questions regarding the program contact Dr. Ann Marie Plunkett through her email aplunkett@pvcc.edu. Page 6 Student Success Day Turns to be Resourceful Deadra Miller, online editor On Feb. 26, students milled about the Bolick Student Center perusing the tables featuring services available to PVCC students. PVCCs mascot Pouncer prowled through the crowd with pizza boxes encouraging students to check out all the booths. David Lerman, director of student success and retention, with the help of the other Student Success Advisors, Kristen Holt and Kendra Powell, organized another Student Success Day with new activities such as a vision board and story writing table. Lerman said, This semesters Student Success Day was designed more like a student resource fair. The workshops that were offered last semester were cut due to a strenuous review process that gets conducted after every student success event. In addition to the free pizza and class credits given by certain professors, there were many resources available to students. One of the tables at the fair was a voter registration table run by students in Assistant Professor of Political Science Connie Jorgensens political sciences classes. Chad Mitchell helped two PVCC students register at the booth. They said having tables like these make it easier to register and requested that the table appear at events like this in the future. Financial Aid hosted another table, which included a game. Students could spin the wheel to randomly select a question. Financial Aid Administrative Assistant Sherry Dudley would then ask the question, and if they got it correct, the student would win a prize. Prizes included a PVCC hoodie, PVCC cinch sack, PVCC t-shirt, and gift certificates. Lydia Wood, work study for financial aid was also asking questions of the students who came to the table. Pouncer continued his rounds throughout the Student Success Day posing for pictures. At one point, Pouncer stopped by the Writing Centers table and added to a story they were creating with the help of students. Each student that stopped by the table was invited to write the next sentence of the story. The story was titled An Unusual Day at PVCC. To read the story, please check out the Writing Centers Facebook page. Many tables spanning from UVA Credit Union to Disability Services were present at Student Success Day. Even Virginia State Trooper Recruitment Officer Brad Crews was present during this event. He had his recruitment table set up speaking with different students about joining the state police. Crews was excited to see the different resources available to PVCC students. Finally, Amanda Key, coordinator of the student financial resource center, had a table set up with a survey of what students would like to see available at PVCC. Key said, Fill out the Google doc survey with as many options as you would like to see enacted at PVCC, and it will be taken into consideration. Students who completed the survey had the option to enter a raffle for a candy gift basket. Pouncer poses with Jonathan Renshaw Photography by Deadra Miller Page 7 Providing Educational Opportunities in Prisons Deadra Miller, online editor Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has agreements with local VCCS (Virginia Community College System) schools that help turn Virginias offenders into productive citizens. Currently nine PVCC faculty members go to Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women (FCCW) and Buckingham Correctional Centers (BKCC) to teach classes towards an Associate General Studies Degree. Dr. Todd Platts, assistant professor of sociology, teaches SOC 200 and 215 at FCCW. Although he is not teaching there this semester, he hopes to go back and teach this upcoming summer semester. Platts class subject matter in these classes is about key problems in todays society such as family issues, domestic violence, and other life defining material. As Platts teaches this material, he has to be cautious in how it is presented so that it does not trigger an offenders past experiences. Platts says his policy is to make accommodations on a case by case basis in either setting, college or prison. Dr. Ben Sloan, professor of English, has more of a defined background within this specific setting of teaching. Beginning in North Carolina Department of Corrections (NCDOC) in conjunction with Shaw University of Raleigh, N.C., Sloan was asked to work with men and women that are incarcerated within NCDOC, specifically in the Raleigh area. When Sloan moved to Virginia, he was asked yet again to educate students that are part of VADOCs prison population, at FCCW and BKCC. He primarily teaches English courses such as ENG 111, 112, Creative Writing, American Literature, World Literature, and at times he will teach SDV 100. He taught for one calendar year at BKCC and has been teaching numerous semesters at FCCW since 2011. Sloan is currently teaching ENG 112 and Creative Writing at FCCW. Sloan has experience teaching both men and women, which not everyone has the opportunity to do because of the strict regulations that are required to teach in either population. Sloan said, Men are more formal to teach than women are. Director of Student Success and Retention David Lerman, has also taught within VADOC. Educating offenders at FCCW, Lerman has taught SDV courses within this facility. He also has helped with registering students from BKCC and FCCW. He helps the prospective students learn what life outside of the facility would be like. Lerman said the classwork that comes out of FCCW is of excellent quality, and that if he has had to make any changes to his class it was because FCCW does not have the proper internet resources needed for the projects. Lisa Shifflett, administrative assistant to Dr. John Donnelly, may not teach a subject like English, but she still provides crucial support for the registration process of the offenders. Her knowledge of the registration process, and the offenders access to study materials and books makes it so that offenders can get the education they seek by attending classes while incarcerated. Shifflett hopes to teach SDV 100 at FCCW in the summer of 2019. With the help of Doris Buffet and the Sunshine Scholarship, Shifflett helps lay groundwork for the female offenders to realize that they have more to offer in life than what they have contributed in the past. PVCC is the only VCCS college that works with FCCW and the Page 8 Sunshine Scholarship. The Sunshine Scholarship is awarded to about 20 women who meet the requirements of the application. With the help of this scholarship and their families, offenders achieve a goal of getting a higher education. Vice President for Instruction & Student Services Dr. John Donnelly oversees the program that educates offenders within BKCC and FCCW. Donnelly is very passionate about educating offenders, not only in FCCW and BKCC but in Coffeewood Correctional Center (CFCC) as well. In 2003, before he came to PVCC, Donnelly worked at Germanna Community College as an assistant dean. While there, he was asked to teach offenders at CFCC so that they could acquire a degree in either Business Administration or General Studies. This instance got Donnelly started with this opportunity of teaching within VADOC. While PVCC only offers a General Studies degree, different VCCS schools offer other degree possibilities, Germanna offers a Business degree. Donnelly said, The opportunity that PVCC offers is transferable to any of the 15 guaranteed admissions four-year universities. The offenders are given the exact same opportunity as traditional students. Many other programs available to offenders only teach them trade skills; the opportunity to receive a General Studies Degree provides a stable track for participants that get released. We (PVCC) offer the released offenders to come back so that they can finish their degree and have a stable life when they get out, said Donnelly. Donnelly displays a massive passion for this work; he describes his interactions with the offenders as enlightening and rewarding. Donnelly and the previously mentioned faculty do not do this work alone; it takes a village to help the less fortunate get a worthwhile education. The women sell themselves short on selfbelief, and my role as their instructor is not to judge them for their past but to encourage them to push through the tough times, said Donnelly. To find more information on PVCCs work with VADOC prisons, please email lshifflett@pvcc.edu to make an appointment with Donnelly. PVCC Partners with TJACE Program Teddie Frock, staff writer The Thomas Jefferson Adult Career Education (TJACE) program, which was previously administered by Charlottesville High School, has now partnered with PVCC. TJACE offers adult learners a pathway to obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, through education and mentoring. Now students can use the many resources available at PVCC. TJACE serves approximately 700 students per year, and has the capacity to serve even more. According to program director, Carol Coffy, There are 20,000 individuals in the Charlottesville and surrounding areas that are lacking high school credentials. This program offers anyone over the age of 18 a clear pathway to obtaining high school credentials, as well as help to find the right jobs for them, once they are finished. The program is headquartered at the IX building in Charlottesville and it serves the counties of Charlottesville, Albemarle, Fluvanna, Green, and Nelson. They offer classes in multiple locations and employ 36 instructors. TJACE also has a close relationship with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Charlottesville, and offers classes and tutoring to those learning English as a second language (ESL). In addition, they offer workforce assistance, resources, and programs to identify and obtain credentials in several areas such as cooking and other skilled trades. The Curriculum focuses on learning and improving math, reading, social studies and writing skills. The class times vary because students complete the requirements at their own pace. If interested in this program, or know anyone who is, contact TJACE at 961-5461 or drop by their office at 935-A Second St., SE Charlottesville, Va. 22902 in the IX building. Page 9 German Club Provides Sweets and Suffragettes Callan Shore, assistant editor the right to vote. As reported by the Brooklyn Museum Just days out from International Womens website, German suffragette Clara Zetkin may not Day (March 8), it is time to talk womens be as well-known as American suffragettes like suffrage. PVCCs German Club hosted an event Susan B. Anthony, but she was a co-creator of on Feb. 25 to discuss the womens suffrage International Womens Day. movements in the U.S. and Germany. The German Clubs PowerPoint presentation In the North Mall Meeting Room, the core consisted of two slides filled with research about members of German club gave a PowerPoint the two countries womens suffrage movements. presentation and then served as speakers on a The presenters compared and contrasted the panel. With the original motivations help of their for the movements, Faculty Advisor the supporters and Patricia adversaries, and Jassmann, the how the laws were members served changed. hot coffee and an If a woman in assortment of Germany snuck into cookies. The a political meeting turnout was low, and was discovered, but the presenters the meeting and did not lose everything confidence. discussed there was When picking considered ruined, a topic for their said Canning. upcoming panel, According to The the members of Local, a German German Club newspaper, German unanimously women gained the voted to cover right to vote in the suffrage 1919, and American movements. women followed Though none of closely behind in the club members 1920. are fluent in German Club German, they member Melissa German Club at presentation each have Stacy said, One Photography by Callan Shore enough of a grasp difference between the on the language to German and American practice it and play German games during Club movements was that the German suffragettes meetings. focused on legislative change from the beginning, The club is not centered around practicing whereas American suffragettes started by German; its more about the culture, said protesting. German club member Sarah Canning. The German Club at PVCC meets every The German womens suffragettes faced Monday. In order to join, students should email many of the same challenges as American Patricia Jassmann at pjassmann@pvcc.edu or call suffragettes, and they achieved the right to vote her at (434) 296-0500. sooner, yet member Payton Peins said, Most Prospective members can also find out people probably dont even know that this year is information about the club from a student the 100 anniversary of German women gaining member. Page 10 Controversy Weakens the Womens March Callan Shore, assistant editor In January, the Womens March celebrated its third anniversary, but not everyone was offering their congratulations. The leaders of the Womens March represent many diverse groups, but recently there has been speculation of anti-Semitism at the groups core. The first objections from the public began when Womens March co-chair Tamika Mallory attended a Louis Farrakhan event in 2015. As Jennifer Wright wrote in the Harpers Bazaar article Should You Attend the Womens March? Louis Farrakhan is the leader of Nation of Islam, a group that is openly anti-Semitic and antiLGBTQIA+. Additionally, according to New York Times article Womens March Roiled by Accusations of Anti-Semitism, another co-chair Vanessa Wruble asserted that she faced anti-Semitic comments from Tamika Mallory and Carmen Perez (another co-chair). Although some sources have said this did not happen, there are also many who have confirmed Wrubles account. The Womens March, as a group, and Mallory, as an individual, have issued short responses to the controversy. In 2017 and 2018, Charlottesville was one of many towns to organize a small march in solidarity with the Washington march. In 2017, organizers set a schedule complete with training in bystander intervention, a small march around IX Art Park, guided meditation, and speakers. In 2018, the local march was less organized but expanded to the Sprint Pavilion on the Downtown Mall. This January, however, there was no march in Charlottesville. Many other Womens marches around the country were canceled this year as well in areas like Cincinnati, Chicago, and California. The D.C. march also saw a large decrease in attendance. This is not the first time the Womens March has been called problematic, though. From the beginning, it has been criticized for both copying the Million Women March that was led by black women in 1997 and focusing on white womens concerns over others. It has also been called out for excluding women with pro-life views. People hold signs for Charlottesville March Photography by Callan Shore Charlottesville native Jamila Pitre said, I attended the D.C. Womens March in 2017 and 2018, and I found it to be an experience of optimism and compassion. However, as I became aware of allegations of antisemitism and criticisms of cis-normative themes, I made the decision to forego the march this year. In the face of the challenges were currently confronting, such as the horrific act of terrorism and antisemitism in Pittsburgh and the trans-military ban, I feel that advocating for intersectional feminism is of the highest importance. In Vox article Anti-Semitism concerns leave the future of the Womens March in doubt, Anna North cited that powerful figures, including the woman who first sparked the idea for the Womens March, have called for Mallory, Perez, Bob Bland, and Linda Sarsour to step down as leaders of the Womens March. As for the perspective of women who attended the marches in D.C. and NYC this year, the consensus of popular activists Nadya Okamoto and Deja Foxx was that it was not inclusive, the crowd lacked diversity, and the calls-to-action were vague and not inspirational. Page 11 Virginia Festival of the Book Turns a New Page Callan Shore, assistant editor Every March book lovers leave their screens behind to step into the world of their favorite stories. For the past 24 years, thousands have flocked to Albemarle County for the Virginia Festival of the Book. Each year, the attendance reaches around 20,000, and the attendees come from over 30 different states. This year, the festival will last from March 20 to 24. The events of this years festival range from book signings to talks such as Embracing Power: Women and the Supernatural and Contemporary Appalachia in Fiction. Libraries, schools, bookstores, and theatres across Charlottesville will serve as venues for the events. Local partners include Over the Moon Bookstore, New Dominion Bookshop, PVCC Community Garden, and Cville Coffee. Additionally, most of the people who work to put the events together are volunteers from the community. There will be more than 250 events, and the majority are free. Most events are first come, first serve, but there are a handful that require tickets. The Festival schedule features more than 130 public programs that are free to attend and focus on everything from award-winning nonfiction to poetry and graphic novels. So, you can explore the schedule in advance and build your dream itinerary or you can just wake up on one of the days of the Festival and decide to attend a program that's nearby, said Assistant Director of the Virginia Center for the Book Sarah Lawson. Every year, the festival has a unique surprise. For example, in 2017, 100 authors visited local schools. One of my favorite aspects of the Festival is the element of the unexpected available in each program. We plan and schedule books around particular topics, yet the authors often use the discussion to explore fascinating connections among the books. You can join that discussion in the moment by offering questions, and continue it by reading the books afterwards, said Jane B. Kulow, director of the Virginia Center for the Book. This year, the surprise is that actor and director Emilio Estevez will hold a screening of his movie The Public. The movie is about a group of homeless people in Cincinnati who clash with Police over a lack shelter in harsh weather. This event costs $15 and will be at the Paramount Theatre on March 22 at 7 p.m. Published poet Libby Burton said, I was really honored and excited to be asked to read at the Festival this year, as I remember being an undergraduate at the University [of Virginia] and watching amazing poets read there, like Lucie Brock-Broido, and thinking, Wow, what if I could read my work as a published poet here someday. It took a while, but now I will finally have the chance. Burton will be reading from her book of poems Soft Volcano on March 22 at the UVA bookstore. She said, I am really excited to be reading alongside my friend, and an amazing poet, and UVA alumnus, Laura Eve Engel. According to the festivals website, the best advice for attendees is to say hello to that author whose work you admire, and be sure to let them know just how much you loved their most recent book. To find further information on the Virginia Festival of the Book, visit www.vabook.org. If you are a professional and wish to submit work for consideration, submissions for 2020 will open in June 2019. Page 12 Romance Flourishes at the Paramount Theater Francesca Black, staff writer The Paramount Theater in downtown Charlottesville hosts many events throughout the year. These events include opera, ballet, and musical theater as well as the screening of classic holiday themed films. This year for Valentines Day, the Paramount screened the cult classic True Romance, written by Quentin Tarantino. As one of the oldest theaters in Charlottesville, opened in 1931, the Paramount lends a timeless feel as you enter the large doors into the high ceilinged hall. The theater seats 1100 including the balcony, which prompts an even more magical experience. The film, from 1993, is about Clarence (Christian Slater), a man who falls in love with Alabama (Patricia Arquette), a call girl. Drama ensues when the two get married and go on the run from her old contacts. Watching old movies surrounded by the classic architecture makes it all the more romantic. The themed films provide the community an inexpensive way to celebrate with $7 dollar tickets and refreshments between $4-$9. The theater offers draft beer ($6) and popcorn ($4), to name a few items. With romantic lighting and the special cocktail named the good night kiss ($9), this was a great Valentines Day event. Photography by Francesca Black Get the Megaticket for Summer Concerts Kylie Hoffman, staff writer throughout the whole summer, starting in May with Chris Young and ending in September with Imagine spending eight different nights of Jason Aldean. summer 2019 at a different concert for a low There are a variety of seating options, but the price. Singing, dancing and enjoying a night of cheapest way to go are the lawn seats. Lawn seats great music by some of the hottest country singers cost $250 for all eight tickets, about $31.25 per for the year. performance. Tickets for a single concert will be Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Va, is an outdoor way more expensive than that. music venue that has hosted some of the best Last year, my sister decided she wanted to go concerts I have ever seen. For at least the past to some of the concerts after the mega tickets three years I have been attending concerts there, were sold out. I spent $46 for this single concert and they have ticket, not been my absolute including the rest favorite. of the fees. This year, Tickets closer to Jiffy Lube is the stage are more selling Country expensive, but Megatickets, with there are the megaticket definitely many attendees getting options. to attend eight All tickets are concerts that are now available at spread Megaticket.com. Photography by Kylie Hoffman Page 13 Local Digital Art Showcased at PVCC Samantha Aldridge, staff writer PVCC recently hosted an art show that featured local digital pieces from a variety of artists. In the Dickinson buildings North Gallery, there is immersive imagery from John Grant while in the South Gallery multiple photographers displayed portrait images with different style choices. The North Gallery featured "Skyward" by John Grant, a piece with various flowers of vibrant colors and a consistent sky background in every picture. Beryl Solla discussed the inspiration of the North Gallery. She described wanting to have a brightly colored display to brighten up the dull months of winter. Luckily, Grants goal of creating a bit of a psychic oasis fit Sollas requirements. Grant recently placed in two categories of Londons Kew Gardens International Garden Photographer of the Year competition and his works are found in many major public collections including the National Institute of Health, the Federal Reserve Board, the permanent collection of Capital One bank, and many other private collections. The South Gallery was filled with beautiful portraits from local photographers, featuring familiar places in Charlottesville, friendly faces of nearby residents, and even illustrations. The diversity of Look Out: A Collection of Community Portraits was very clear in the various frames. Featured were Charlottesville artists z Amos, Aaron Farrington, Jae Johnson, Greg Antrim Kelly, Jess Pino, Sanjay Suchak, and Guillermo Ubilla. Many black and white but some in color created a great contrast between the two types of photos featured in the gallery. Overall, this wonderful show displayed two different types of digital art by local talented individuals. The art is still visible for the students and public. Spectators only had positive things to say about the event, and everyone should see this exhibit for themselves. Solla said on the quality of the art, It has to be great work because students are looking at it. I dont want it to be junk. Photography by Samantha Aldridge Page 14 Page 15 The Cultural Hub of Free Movie Fridays Tiana Sigala, staff writer The Dickinson auditorium was in full swing 45 minutes before the showing, and the activity would only pick up. Groups congregated around entryways, pairs located and called out to each other from opposing doors, couples warmly greeted friends and sat together. The demographic was strikingly dissimilar to the students you might see wandering the halls, as families filed in to claim seats, and elderly folk convened for conversation. Its a great spot to meet friends, said retired electrician Joe Clendaniel, who tries as often as he can to catch Free Movie Fridays with his bowling buddies. As we spoke, Clendaniel was patted on the shoulder and greeted more than once by passersby. All these folks know me this is a great place to get together, he said with a laugh, and he wasnt alone in meeting friends here. Calls of I thought I heard your voice and fancy seeing you here! were common in these pre-movie moments. Free Movie Fridays are a monthly PVCC event during which a recently-released film, one not yet available for home view, is available for free to students and the community alike. Community, it would seem, is key in these Free Movie Fridays. Beryl Solla, chair of visual & performing arts at PVCC, carefully curates these movies through a criterion of timeliness, critical success, and positive messages. Further, Solla has shown a proclivity for films with cultural significance, focusing on sharing films by or about members of historically disenfranchised groups. Solla said, It seems to me that educators are responsible for sharing ALL the information. It's not our job to pick and choose- it's our job to give students all the information that is available. Art is one of the best ways to do that. Green Book does not break from this pattern. The movie follows the true story of Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali), a renowned pianist, and Tony Vallelonga (Viggo Mortensen), in the forming of an unlikely friendship through a concert tour around the deep south in a time of strong racial animus. The storyline deals with themes of racism, homophobia, solidarity, and identity crises. Through choosing movies that highlight diverse stories and backgrounds, such as Green Book, Solla hopes to share works featuring groups whose art has been historically overlooked. It's great for students of color because they are finally being represented by mainstream media and it's great for white students because they are not always informed of the cultural/ political/economic/scientific contributions made by people of color, says Solla. Some of her previous Free Movie Night choices include such representative films as Hidden Figures, Black Panther, and Loving. Of her dedication to sharing such meaningful stories, Solla said, Art has always been used to share ideas and culture. Now we have more people telling their stories and we all need to listen. Indeed, the crowd listened. The theatre was animated, with viewers laughing and even gasping in unison. Green Book, while more a feel-good film than others that involve similar, dense themes, certainly had an effect on PVCCs audience. By movies end, the viewers were perceptibly subdued; some visibly weepy. As the lights came on and everyone filed toward the doors an affable chattiness returned. Though she was still dabbing at the corner of her eyes with a cloth napkin when approached, Queens transplant Deb Blum left in good spirits, joking, Those accents were better than some I ever heard in the Bronx! Free Movie Fridays will continue showcasing significant and diverse films for the Charlottesville community with On the Basis of Sex in March, a biopic about our first female Supreme Court Justice, Ruth Bader-Ginsburg. Often, the movies are paired with other PVCC arts events. In April, the Oscar-winning SpiderMan: Into the Spider-Verse is showing, featuring an other-dimensional Spiderman, Afro-Latino Miles Morales. The event is paired with the Annual Student Exhibition & Seventh Annual Chocolate Chow Down which showcases student art and delicious chocolate. Catch the next Free Movie Friday, On the Basis of Sex, March 15, at 7:30 pm, in the Dickinson Auditorium. Page 16 PVCC Features a Self-taught Potter Deadra Miller, online editor Feb. 16 through 17, Professor of Art Tom Clarkson sponsored a pottery workshop at PVCC. Potter Tom Bauman of Indiana came for two days to give tips on how he glazes and makes his pottery. Bauman started off the workshop with some history about how he started his work in pottery. He built his kilns from the ground up not once but twice, learning from his mistakes every time that another one burned down. Bauman started his career in pottery work with a Ceramics 1 class similar to what PVCC offers. He attended Indiana University and is a Hoosier by school association, starting school with a basketball opportunity. Bauman went on to explain his works of art with the help of a slide show that featured pictures of his works. He started with his first piece, in 1985, then moved to more recent works that he has sold or produced. During the slide show, he said that he has been featured in Functional Pottery, a publication Photography by Deadra Miller that endorses pottery with a purpose. He then shifted topics and started talking about throwing (when the potter places clay on the wheel to form) pottery; he admits that he often wondered what he was doing but that he began to fall in love with this craft. This workshop was advertised by word of mouth. In the art world, this is just as good as publicly announcing it. At the workshop, there was a wide age range of people from middle schoolers to senior citizens. Bauman said, It is better to work over the piece rather than beside the piece, while he threw his second pitcher. During the workshop, he threw two pitchers: one in his specific way to make the lip and begin a handle on it, a second pitcher focusing more on making the pitcher easier to pour, and a covered casserole dish the casserole dish being thrown then the lid second. He emphasized the specifics of using a caliper (a type of measurement tool) to measure the diameter of the dish to match with the lid. While he was demonstrating the use of a caliper in pottery making, he endorsed some specific events and companies that would be useful to the recreational potter. He talked about events in Floyd County Virginia and all around the United States. One event, the Clay Olympics is where potters compete in events like tallest pot, blindfolded throwing, widest bowl, and reverse wheel. The awards are given in the same manner as the Olympics every four years, but the Clay Olympics are held annually. Tom Clarkson teaches Ceramics 153 and Ceramics 154. For more information email Clarkson at tclarkson@pvcc.edu. Page 17 Having Great Expectations for PVCC Rachel Lemley, staff writer There is even advising about financial literacy to teach students how to budget and make important Over 500 children in Virginia Foster Care age financial decisions. out of the system and face challenges like living As they get into the program and start on their own without support from any family. working the program, a lot of the students anxiety The Great Expectations program takes on these is less because theyve had more problems and attempts to help students find accomplishments. Their sense of belonging is academic success and employment in enjoyable, more powerful and they feel like they can do family-sustaining environments. something. Their self esteem is higher. My The Great Expectations Program was founded ultimate goal is for all of our students to be self in 2009, and over 300 people from PVCC have sufficient, said the lead advisor of the program enrolled. The LaTisha Jackson, initiative is not who has worked in only to provide social services for guidance for over 20 years. former foster I dont look at care youth, but success as how also to help many people them with graduate, I look at financial aid, success in how admissions, many people are and big career better off now than or academic when they came into decisions. The the program. More main purpose than anything I want of the program them to find is to give these themselves and so, if college we look at it from students the the standpoint of support they them looking at need, through themselves and counseling or finding their next coaching, to steps, I would say overcome any we have an 100 barriers they percent success Photo Courtesy of PVCC Marketing and Media Relations may have from rate, Jackson their past. concludes. To be eligible for this program, students must Through guidance and aid, most of these have current or past affiliation with the Virginia children who come from rough or unstable foster care system, be adopted from the system backgrounds are given the opportunity to fulfill after their thirteenth birthday, or be a special- their dreams and achieve higher education. The needs adoption. advisors also counsel with foster students who are Once accepted, the student will have access to in highschool, students in four-year schools, and different kinds of financial aid, like the Tuition those who are out of college. Great Expectations Grant for Foster Youth or the Scholarships for hopes to see at least half of the foster youth at Foster Kids. The Great Expectations mentor PVCC earn a degree and go on to a better future. program is also a way to open doorways to More information on the program can be accessed success by having a trusted and positive role at https://www.pvcc.edu/student-services/greatmodel help the student each step of the way. expectations. Page 18 Celebrating a Night at the Rotunda Rachel Lemley, staff writer tables arranged at the center of the room. We ate an exquisite meal of lasagna, garlic On Thursday evening of Feb. 7, college breadsticks, steamed vegetables, salad, and students and professors alike gathered in the biscuits covered in chocolate, while meeting the dome room of the Rotunda for a night of other people at our table and discussing our conversation and dining, but instead received an majors. important lesson on the power of media. Andrews came to the podium and instantly The Rotunda at UVA has annual meetings that began telling us of his background in journalism, are part of their Second Year Dinner Series, and the strong effects that they have had on his which allow second-year students to mingle with life. He then went on to show us how to evaluate each other, celebrate their accomplishments, and news sources and how they can cause ignorance feel fancy while hearing others speak about their in the world if we do not have a good basis of the passions. knowledge. The dinner held with the theme of Living a He ended with a clip from Saturday Night Better Story to introduce Wyatt Andrews, an Live that parodied politics and his opinion that Emmy awardmedia controls winning CBS News much of how we National react to the world. Correspondent and His speech, despite professor in the causing some Department of controversy, was Media Studies at informative and UVA. helped the students At 6:30 p.m., we in questioning how climbed the steps of well they know not the gorgeous only the media, but Rotunda and arrived themselves. in its warmly-lit The Rotunda has halls. We traveled many events and up the red and dinners that are brightly-patterned free to go to and staircases, and large are educational. doors opened to The dinner series is reveal the main a program done room, a spacious annually and area with ionic people of all ages columns lining the can attend, helping giant dome to make them make the top of the connections within building. the world. The bright lights To get more and golden information about decorations the upcoming reflected lightly off events and learning the shine of the more about the wood floors. The different programs waiters took our can be coats and seated us accessed through The Halls of the Rotunda. Photo by Rachel Lemley at one of the many the UVA website. Page 19 SDONA: Searching with a Purpose Bryn Dotson, assistant editor (HRD) dogs. Dotson works specifically with Human Muddy paws sink into the earth, and damp Remains Detection dogs, which are trained to noses press against the dewy grass. Handlers hunt down the scent of a missing individual who follow their agile companions loyally, trailing has passed away and needs to be located. alongside them as they continue their ceaseless We train dogs to find human remains, which hunt. Whether it be in the dark hours of a may or may not be buried. We can have cases as newborn morning or under the hot gaze of the intense as homicide and suicide, Dotson said in midday sun, the dogs and their handlers are an even tone. searching. These dogs spend extensive amounts of time They are not hunting for a deer, a squirrel, a searching for cadavers, which can be placed in a rabbit. They are looking for a missing person. It broad range of climates, temperatures, and takes specialized weather. Even in large training to track a bodies of water, Water humans scent, HRD dogs are able to training most people find a scent and guide do not have access to. rescuers and handlers to That is where Search a specific area. Dog Organization of According to the North America National Missing and (SDONA) comes in. Unidentified Persons SDONA is a System (NamUs), over donation-based 600,000 individuals go organization that missing in the United trains and prepares States every year. dogs and their owners There are the not-so to search for missing -good parts. The hardest persons and rescue times are when you see them. According to families that have SDONAs website, its indefinitely lost a loved mission is one. It is a hard place to Dog searching through rubble straightforward: To be and a hard thing to Photo courtesy of SDONA develop and nurture a witness, Dotson program grounded in science-based functional explained, his tone dipping slightly. training where K9 handlers and their dogs can But this is why we do it. It is the best feeling train, test, and challenge themselves to the highest when you do a good job. It is an emotional level possible. journey through and through, Dotson said as he It is rewarding when you as a dog handler smiled. find someone who has been missing, said Bill Because of the experience he has, Dotson has Dotson, who trains with SDONA. Dotson has spoken at many seminars on the importance and worked with SDONA, as well as many other practice of search and rescue. teams and organizations, for many years. He has Its my job and my passion, which can often also aided the Federal Emergency Management be a challenging balance to strike. It allows for Agency. me to travel, as well as experience different Dotson explained that SDONA teaches cultures and be immersed. We search with a different dogs for different tasks. These can purpose. Its what we love to do, Dotson include disaster dogs, which are trained to find concluded. living humans in the aftermath of a disaster, area search dogs, which are able to find human scent Authors note: Bill Dotson is Bryn Dotsons through the wind, and Human Remains Detection grandfather. Page 20 Working for Others, the Life of a Volunteer Rachel Lemley, staff writer The fluorescent lights act as an artificial heaven and the bright sky reflects warmly off the bed sheets and shining floor. Everything is a clean, cotton color and carries the faint scent of lemons, but despite the welcoming atmosphere of the hospice, most people admitted here do not end up leaving. This hospice is one of the places that Emily Han, a UVA student and volunteer, works at, along with the Acute Pediatrics unit at the UVA hospital and Hospice of the Piedmont. She spends most of her time throughout the weeks traveling back and forth from hospitals to school with little time for herself, studying biology, anatomy, and chemistry to better understand the priorities of her job and because of her long-term interest in the subjects. However, the struggle of balancing her time does not compare to the challenges she faces on a daily basis as a hospital volunteer. Han speaks of witnessing the last moments of a terminally-ill, elderly woman. I didnt think it would affect me since I didnt know her that well. I went into her room, and I just held her hand. And her breathing just slowed down and got slower and slower and just stopped. That was the first time I directly dealt with death. It really didnt hit me until a few minutes afterward and I started crying a lot. But also Im glad that I was there because at least she was at peace and wasn't alone and she had someone with her in her final moments. She says, recalling her first experience with death. Hans insight into the Pediatrics unit gives her the ability to see many children and patients get better throughout their time. She is able to hold and provide care to lonely or sick children during their treatment and up until they are released to live normal lives. Unfortunately, working in the hospice proves much more challenging. Hospice patients are people who are already diagnosed with a terminal illness, and they know it. Theyve decided or are not able to undergo any more treatments and are just prepared to let life take its natural course. With hospice, it is hard because you know all of the patients are moving toward death. My role is to just sit down and talk Photography by Rachel Lemley with them and comfort them. Sometimes I sit with a patient and we dont say anything, but I hold their hand. said Han. Despite the emotional trauma and hardships she faces, this job offers fulfillment in the knowledge that she made a child happy or gave peace to a person in their last moments. She has had many encounters with heartbreak and death, but understands that good can come out of the effect she has on people. Im very aware of what I can and cannot do, Han says. Theres one girl who has been in the hospital since she was born, and since I started volunteering there because something was wrong with her respiratory tract. Ive been watching her grow up. Sometimes I get to help the occupational therapist, and I just remember the first time she had a weird grip and could only use one hand. A month ago, the therapist was there again and she could hold things normally now and pass things from one hand to the other. Just being able to see the patients get better makes me happy for them. These jobs have allowed her to have first-hand experiences into the personal and medical lives of others. They have made her mature into a person skilled in hospital and patient care, however sometimes the most important kind of care to give is ones sympathy. Many times a patient just needs someone to talk to or take their mind off of the stress. Han sacrifices not only her time, but her peace of mind for the wellbeing of other people. She wants to eventually have a full-time job in the medical field because of her desire to learn and help others. Page 21 79-73 Falcons Heated Win Over Knights Fuqua and Buckingham players face off. Photography by Samantha Aldridge Samantha Aldridge, staff writer The Fuqua Falcons, from Prince Edward County, traveled into the Buckingham Knights territory Wed. Jan. 30. Already met with friendly competition, Fuqua fans came to Buckingham High wearing camouflage outfits to mock the section of southern students. The student body heard the rumors about the mockery and showed up proudly in their green and gold colors in support of the team. Upon arriving, the gym was full of students and families from both schools. Everyone could not miss the section full of the Fuqua students in their camouflage attire. When The Knights walked in, multiple students looked the Fuqua fan section up and down before coming together onto the court. One Buckingham student, Natalie, mentioned a slight joke about the camo clothing saying, At least we dont have to see them. The bleachers in the gym were nearly full. After the game began, Buckingham came in strong. There were multiple 3- point shots made mostly by Jalen Chambers, junior. After the first quarter, the Falcons led with a score of 18-14. The quarter went by fast, and the fans yelled back and forth at each other. Not only was the game itself heating up, but so was the tension between the fans and referees. With loud complaints coming from both sides of the gym towards the referees and their calls. The second quarter had the same pace as the first, but consisted of more time-outs and fouls between both teams. The Falcons led the second quarter with the score being 28 26. Before half time arrived, the Fuqua fan section mocked the Buckingham cheerleaders which resulted in loud banter from across both sides of the gym. The cheerleaders started tossing free miniature basketballs into the crowd during half time. People then flowed out of the gym and the people who were standing went up to steal seats. The last two quarters were the most stressful for both teams. With time running out and the score close, the entire gym was on their toes watching every second tick by. Eventually the back and forth abruptly stopped and the scoreboard showed 79-73. Buckingham Knights fans left with their heads low while the Falcons heads were held high. Chambers led the score for the Knights with 23 points while Drew Osburn led for the Falcons with 20 points. Page 22 Lions Hang to Clinch District Win Kylie Hoffman, staff writer The Louisa County Lions have already won the regular season Jefferson District title. Can they win the district tournament as well? Home court advantage, stands packed with Lions fans and seniors wanting this win more than ever. On Feb. 12, 2019, the Louisa County Lions took on the Albemarle Patriots for the third time this season, but this time for the big title. Not only have the Lions not won this title since 1995, but the last time they won this title, Head Coach Robert Shelton was a senior at LCHS. The game started with Albemarle receiving the tip off. With Albemarle missing their chance to score the first shot of the game, Louisa senior, Chris Shelton, got the ball and scored the first shot of the game for the Lions. At the end of the first quarter the Lions were up 11-4. Going back and forth in the first half, the Lions held the Patriots 21-15. Going to a basketball game in the den is one of my favorite things, said Louisa resident, Cassie Duerson. The atmosphere put off by the fans and the student section is one of the best feelings there is. Into the second half, Louisa was up by nine with 5:40 to go in the third quarter, but Albemarle soon came back to tie the game 33-33 in the late third. Back and forth the Patriots and Lions went, trading buckets trying to get the win. Lions up 48-46 with 20 seconds to play, the Patriots got the ball and Sophomore Josh Morses 3-pointer didnt fall. Not only did the Lions win the regular season district championship, but the Lions won the district tournament as well. At the end of the night, junior Jarett Hunter had 14 points as well as making eight of the nine free throw attempts. Shelton scored 12 with six of those in the first quarter; followed by junior Isaac Haywood scoring nine points going 3-for-4 at the line. This win for Louisa was a long haul. It was a long time coming for these boys. It didnt start this game or this year, these kids have been playing together for a long time, since middle school, Robert Shelton said in an interview with Scrimmage Play. He said, Theyve played against each other, theyve played with each other. Weve had our ups and downs as a program and as a team and they overcame that adversity and Im proud of them, they worked hard for this moment and they deserve this moment. Photography by Kylie Hoffman Page 23 Farmers Market Brightens Winter Blues Francesca Black, staff writer The market for local food in Charlottesville abounds with options to experience Virginias horticultural bounty. A crucial source comes to residents as the City Market, where local farmers, artisans, and vendors showcase their talents. In the winter months, January to March, the market is staged at the IX Art Park. Although minimal compared to its seasonal counterpart held near the Downtown Mall, the Winter Market still proves vital. On entering the Market, tucked behind Three Notchd Brewing Company and the new North American Sake Brewery, a large tent, helpful for the cold mornings, holds a plethora of food and crafts from around central Virginia. Farms such as Agriberry offer seasonal fruit, while Free Union Grass Farm offers fresh, local duck, chicken, beef and pork products. Bakery options are also available for morning snacks or take away, including the vegan, glutenfree Moon Maidens Delights or the regionally sourced Little Hat Creek Farm which, along with bread and pastry, also offers vegetables. Carpe Donut, a popular food truck at the market, provides hot coffee of cider ($2.50) and local cider donuts ($2/$10 for a half dozen). For pet lovers, Zeuss Gourmet offers locally made dog treats. If it gets too cold, the two breweries, Three Notchd and North American Sake, are open as well. The colorful murals and play areas make this a kid-friendly event. All and all, the Winter Market, IX Art Park, 522 2nd Street SE, offers a wide variety of local food, produce, and other Virginia culinary products to make the winter a little bit warmer. Photography by Francesca Black Page 24 Low Vintage Sells a Look into the Past Callan Shore, assistant editor millennials about sustainable fashion. Buying a recycled item from Low feels more special Nestled on a side street of the Downtown than buying something new because that item Mall, Low Vintage offers a unique shopping has a history and will help the environment. experience. The ambience is dark with low The one downfall to shopping at Low is the ceilings, as the store is underground, but upon high prices. A sweater may cost anywhere entering, customers will be greeted with a from $8 to $30, depending on its vintage plethora of colorful prints and a cheerful value, and that same sweater would likely be cashier. $5 at Goodwill; it would simply require a Charlottesville harder search. has many However, Low Goodwill stores always has a with a large sale rack outside selection of styles, the entrance. but there are few Low is more vintage stores. customer Low Vintage fills friendly and the void well with thoughtful than a wide selection other thrift or of clothes, vintage stores. records, and Every item is antique dishes. organized into Low Vintage sets its respective itself apart from category, and others with its they are selection of selective about pristine wedding the items they dresses and sell. For childrens clothes, example, all of as well as its vast the jewelry at collection of Low is hand cowboy boots. made by women Thrifting has designers from become across the South Photography by Callan Shore increasingly of the U.S. popular among Additionally, millennials, but is vintage on the same track? most of the clothing is made of linen and other Vintage stores sell items that were specially eco-friendly materials. The dressing rooms are picked out and usually have some type of large with have multiple mirrors, and there is value, whereas thrift stores are more likely to even an area for children to play while their accept all donated items. Additionally, vintage parents shop. items typically follow a specific style, whereas If you want to see what Low Vintage has to thrift items are more diverse in style. offer, look for the circular blue sign on 5th St Despite the older styles that they sell, SE. Their hours are Sunday through Thursday Lows consumer base is young. This is likely 12-6 p.m., Friday 12-9 p.m., and Saturday 10 due to the broadening awareness among a.m. to 9 p.m. Page 25 Wines and Weddings at Keswick Vineyard Cody Clark, staff writer Keswick Vineyards is eight miles off of Interstate 64. The first grapes were planted in 2000 and the first vintage was bottled in 2002. The vineyard has a tasting room and an area that can be used for private parties. Weddings are the most common private event held at the vineyard. The venue can hold up to 200 people. Reservations should be made one year in advance. The property has beautiful grounds, which includes a pond that is home to a black swan, whites swans, geese, and ducks. Inside the tasting room, you will be greeted by one of sommeliers who are knowledgeable with all the wines. Wine tastings cost $6 per person. The vineyard has 16 wines to choose from; however, only ten are available for tasting. The tasting room provides bar stools for the customers to use while tasting or drinking purchased wine. There is also a large outdoor patio, part of which is screened in, to drink purchased wine. The winery also hosts several musical artists throughout the year. The wines are made from Keswick grown grapes whenever possible; however, sometimes grapes need to be imported from other vineyards throughout Virginia, California, and Washington state. Grapes are usually only outsourced if problems arise, such as an early frost or excessive rainfall. Though I was unable to taste the wine myself, I brought my mother with me. She has been to many wineries before, including Napa Valley, and tasted hundreds of wines. She tasted all of the available wines and said, I drink sparkling wine and red wine only. However, when tasting wine, I do sample all wines offered. I generally end up disappointed with the white and rose wines. At the Keswick winery, for the first time, I actually enjoyed and even purchased the chardonnay and rose wine. I found all of the offered wines enjoyable. Keswick Vineyards also offers a special rewards club. The two most popular levels are silver and gold. Silver membership costs $75 every month and members will get three bottles of wine a month and a 20 percent discount on other wines. Gold membership costs $50 a month and members will get two bottles of wine a month and a 25 percent discount on other wines. All members get free tastings. Club members will be invited to special club events, such as the Consensus Blending Party, where club members group into teams to create their own wine. The Keswick Vineyard is a great place for wine lovers and the memberships are well worth their price. The grounds are beautiful and even if you do not enjoy the wine there are special events open for all. The tasting room is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday. Photography by Cody Clark. Area outside the tasting room. Page 26 Light Up Your Night with Firefly Tiana Sigala, staff writer Need to feed your inner-child? Then the Woolen Mills area has a treat for you with Charlottesvilles own, one-of-a-kind Firefly. Firefly, while filled to the brim and bursting with a warm, playful ambience, is more than just a place to eat, drink, or play. This hybrid restaurant, arcade, and bar is the concept of its original owner Mark Weber. Weber had dreamed of one day owning a barcade-style restaurant, and his diagnosis with late-stage cancer is what pushed him to make this dream a reality. I realized that my clock may be running out, and I bought this place so I can have the experience, and share it with other people, Weber told Cville Weekly in 2014. A photo of the departed owner hangs in a place of honor above the bar. The restaurant is now owned and operated by his girlfriend, Melissa Meece, who keeps the dream going in tribute to Weber. It's kind of this bright light in the darkness, like a firefly. But also really it's about kind of the, this light that's going to continue on, that's going to live on. I mean this is his legacy, Meece said to NBC29. The industrial warehouse features soaring ceilings and bright natural light. Seating is plenty and varied, but the star of the dining room is the corner arcade area, which features Ms. Pacman, Galaga and Tekken cabinet-style games, as well as skee-ball and pinball machines. The fun does not end there though, as the dining room also features a pool table, and adjacent to the bar is a shelf full of board and card games. The restaurant also features dog-friendly patio seating that is, as long you are okay with your pup being featured on the restaurants Instagram. The fare is American, focusing on local and organic. Firefly is registered as a Green Restaurant with the Virginia Green program and Meece is dedicated to sourcing local, sustainable products to minimize their environmental impact. According to their website, We strive to reduce our impact on the environment by conserving energy, water, paper goods, and generally making conscious decisions about our sourcing. A chalkboard in the building notifies customers that scraps are donated as compost to a local farm. The menu features ample vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, such as the famous, local No-Bull burger ($13) served with house-made vegan pesto or a tangy Sweet -Chili Tofu Sandwich ($12), dressed with a slaw. Either can be served with a side of sweet potato fries or tater tots. Alternative diet options are carefully thought out and excellently executed, and the restaurant prides itself on having a menu that is at least 50% vegetarian, according to the website. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are clearly labeled on the menu, and the soup of day is always vegan. The restaurant serves local Boylan Sodas and has a revolving tap of local ciders and ales. As a restaurant alone, Firefly is a stand out in Charlottesvilles crowded foodie-scene; however, having taken into account its story and mission, Firefly is a jewel not to be missed. Take your friends, take your family, take your neighbors kids and get on out to Firefly on 1304 E Market Street for a night of video games, pool and delicious, carefully sourced food and drinks. Firefly is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11-12 a.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sundays. Photography by Tiana Sigala Page 27 Classifieds Choose the next One Book Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Jessica Adkins Bryn Dotson Callan Shore The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of Americas Shining Women by Kate Moore The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander So Youve Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson Vote online on Blackboard or scan this QR code Voting ends March 25 Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Online Editor Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Samantha Aldridge Liberty Anderson Francesca Black Cody Clark Bryn Dotson Teddie Frock Kaytlynne Gentry Kylie Hoffman Rachel Lemley Deadra Miller Elizabeth Phan Callan Shore Tiana Sigala Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com February 2019 Piedmont Virginia Community College Celebrating Frank Friedmans 20-year Commitment to PVCC Callan Shore, assistant editor Most students know that Frank Friedman is the president of PVCC, but they may not know that he has been leading the college for 20 years and juggles many other responsibilities as well. As a result of his hard work and the 42 years he has spent in community colleges, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges recently delivered the 2018 Carol Luthman Meritorious Service Award to President Friedman. He received this award due to his dedication to not only PVCC, but also for the years he spent on college accreditation boards and as the executive vice president of Austin Community College in Texas. At PVCC, he is responsible for over 100 faculty and staff, an average of 5,500 Looking for a club? Check out pages 10-11 students, and about 24 million dollars. Friedman is also responsible to the governor of Virginia. Its a diverse job; obviously I dont handle everything, but ultimately, Im responsible, said Friedman. On a daily basis, his main role is to take PVCC to the external community, often in order to get funding, and also to take ideas back to PVCC. The governor will tell me what he needs, or UVA will say they need more people in one department, and then well make changes based on that feedback, said Friedman. President Friedman has also been acknowledged by Whos Who in American Education, a dictionary of notable U.S. educators and is a Phi Beta Kappa scholar. Despite these accolades, he said he was surprised to win the See Friedman on page 4 In This Issue PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Classes Civic Engagement Theatre Career Reviews Classifieds -pgs. 6-7 -pg. 9 -pgs. 12-13 -pg. 15 -pgs. 16-19 -pg. 20 President Frank Friedman poses with the school mascot, Pouncer. DATES TO REMEMBER 12-Week Classes Begin Feb. 4 Drop-In Job-Win LinkedIn Photo Booth * Feb. 5, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Bolick Student Center Club Day * Feb. 6, Bolick Student Center Transfer Application Help Sessions * Feb. 7,12,14,19,21, and 26, 2-5 p.m. M823 Sexual Education Week * Feb. 12-14, Main Building One Mic Stand * Feb. 14, 7 p.m., Maxwell Theatre (Black Box) Gallery Exhibition Opening Reception * Feb. 15, 5 - 7 p.m. Dickinson Galleries Third Fridays Improv * Feb. 15, 6-7 p.m., Maxwell Theatre (Black Box) Free Movie Friday: Green Book * Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Auditorium Reclaiming Our Civil Society * Feb. 16, All Day in Bolick Student Center, M229 and North Mall Meeting Room Ezibu Muntu ^ Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Main Stage 10-Week Classes Begin Feb. 18 Easy Career Networking with Employers * (STEM) Feb. 21, 3-5 p.m. Bolick Student Center PVCC Scholarship Application Closure March 1, Midnight * Free Event ^ Student Vouchers Available Editors Note Deadra Miller, online editor While I was growing up, I was more involved with my hands-on creativity than reading and making my own imaginative reality. I was not the smartest student in school. Being in five different school districts throughout my formative years of school was not helpful. I put my focus into my music and multiple instruments. After realizing I did not want to be in the Presidents Own Band, I decided to take the path of communications and work with the VHF radios. Eleven months after my first son was born, I got out of the Marines and came to Virginia. It was not my plan to move here, but it is what I had to do now that I was a mother. So I worked with the Virginia Department of Corrections for eight years. After working there, coming to college was finally an option. At 31 years old, I was not the typical college student; I was a fulltime mother to two boys, working full time and taking classes in the evenings. After my first semester of night classes, I realized I could not work full time and continue my classes, so I started day time classes and eventually ended up taking ENG 121 and writing for The Forum. Writing for The Forum and making the friendships that I have was not in my plans for my college career, but I actually love doing this. Now I am 33 and almost graduated with a General Studies Degree, and it is all because I finally stepped out of my comfort zone. I have come to acquire a taste of being more than a working mother that attends school. Page 2 Student Government Association News Alexandra director Keniston, SGA public relations Welcome back students and staff for a new year at PVCC. So far this semester, SGA has some upcoming events we hope many students will participate in. To begin this semester off right, SGA will be hosting two big events and seven smaller events. The two big events will be the Spring Fling and a Sexual Education Week in the Bolick Student Center. During the Sexual Education Week, the SGA will have events Feb. 12-14. Some of the things we will be sponsoring include a Jeopardy-style game with various assorted prizes and having Planned Parenthood come in and talk about the services they offer. For the Spring Fling, we will be having it later on in April, and it will lead up to the Free Movie Friday. The SGA plans to have a DJ, human jousting and free food at the Spring Fling. For the smaller events, we will plan to partner with some of the clubs at PVCC to bring awareness to the variety of clubs and organizations that we have on campus. There are talks about a new building being added to campus. Until Feb. 5, SGA will be taking suggestions as to what the student body wants in the new building. If you want to be heard, please place a Photography by Rainah Gregory suggestion in the suggestion box in the Bolick Student Center. To keep up with SGA news, you can follow us on Facebook @pvccstudentgov. As always, students who are interested in joining the SGA can apply by filling out this online application https://tinyurl.com/y7357jox. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 3 Friedman, continued from page 1 Carol Luthman Award. After working at Austin Community College, he felt ready for presidency and moved to Virginia to work at PVCC. He said, PVCC is special mainly because of the outstanding faculty and staff and their commitment to excellence. Friedman can understand and relate to students better because of his own college career. After earning a bachelors degree from Muhlenberg College, he went on to get a masters degree in experimental psychology from Purdue University. Friedman says he originally wanted to teach, but he fell in love with the open and accepting nature of Community Colleges, so he decided to work in administration. President Frank Friedman holding his award. Photography by Callan Shore Page 4 Apply Now for PVCC Scholarships Deadra Miller, online editor Silvia Dowell, the scholarship & alumni association coordinator at PVCC states, The scholarship application process closes March 1. Dowell is in charge of posting and coordinating over 150 scholarships that are available to PVCC students. A grand total of $365,343 in scholarships was given away last calendar year to students. Scholarships range from $500 to $5000. Dowell has many tips on how to correctly submit an application for any and all of the scholarships that are offered. Dowell said, Correctly construct the essays that are requested on the scholarships that you are applying for and carefully contemplate and request a faculty member willing to write a recommendation for you. These two tips are the dependent upon the scholarships that are applied for. When applying, applicants need to use their PVCC email address so when the scholarship system reviews the many applications, the approvals can be sent to the correct person. As the scholarships are perused, please pay attention to every detail listed because even the smallest oversight can disqualify one from receiving the scholarship that is being applied for. For example, some scholarships are program-ofstudy specific, career-specific, and age-specific. A lot of factors are taken into consideration when looking at candidates for the massive scholarships that are listed. Some of the more specific scholarships offered are for county high school graduates, newly naturalized citizens, students that have been in the foster care program, and military veterans. The website will close the application process on March 1 for those to be awarded in the fall of this year. The recipients of the scholarships will be notified via email before the fall semester. If there are any difficulties with the application, please email Dowell directly at sdowell@pvcc.edu, call her at 434.961.5204 or stop by her office M210 which is in the 200 wing of the main building on campus. You can learn more on PVCCs website at https://www.pvcc.edu/institutional-advancement/ donors/giving-opportunities/scholarships. Donors Contribute to the Future of PVCC Shawn Kochhar, assistant editor People and businesses from our community give money and other gifts in order to help pay for the PVCC community as a whole. In 1982, the Piedmont Virginia Community Educational Foundation was created to gather donations for PVCC. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization ran by a board of directors from the community. There are many ways to donate and the donations are tax deductible. Donations are given in cash, pledges, securities, life insurance and through gifting of property which can range from school books to real estate. Companies in the community also give donations such as Walmart, through the Walmart Community Grants program. In December 2018, Walmart gave the foundation a $5,000 grant for the Greene County Early College Scholars Program, which was created in 2013 to give scholarships for students from William Monroe High School to attend PVCCs Early College Program. In this program, students earn a degree at PVCC while getting their high school diploma. This helps students to save money while getting a degree. We are thrilled to support the Greene County Early College Scholars Program. By investing in these students future, our community benefits in tangible ways. said Krissy Lester, the human resources manager of the Walmart Distribution Center in Zions Crossroads and a PVCC Educational Foundation board member. The easiest way to donate is with cash, which is tax deductible in the year that the donation is made. You can use a credit card online or you can give a check to the office at 501 College Drive, Charlottesville, VA. There are employers who will match your donation as well. If you would like to get more info on how to donate, contact the PVCC Educational Foundation Office at 434-961-5203 or email the Executive Director Harry Stillerman at hstillerman@pvcc.edu. Page 5 A group of Otto Krause students visiting PVCC. Photo courtesy of PVCC Marketing and Media Relations PVCC Offers International Exchange Program Callan Shore, assistant editor The community of PVCC does not end in Charlottesville because PVCC offers experiences all around the world. One of those experiences is the exchange program with Otto Krause, a secondary school in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Each year for over 25 years the Blue Ridge Rotary Club has funded a PVCC student to visit Argentina. Additionally, students from Otto Krause are able to be a temporary student at PVCC. This years exchange student is Ernesto Braeiro. When PVCC students visit Buenos Aires, they live with a local family and attend classes at Otto Krause for six weeks. This exchange typically happens in June, but the application process starts months earlier. The only requirements for candidates to apply are that they are enrolled at PVCC, are between 18 and 21 years old, and have completed Spanish 202 or the equivalent. Additionally, low application numbers show that few students even know about this program. However, this is not only an opportunity available to students. Since 2013, faculty have also engaged in the exchange. Faculty member Fabian Blanco from Otto Krause is currently visiting PVCC for two weeks. Blanco teaches science in Argentina, and despite English being his second language, he recently gave a public talk at PVCC called Things About Science They Didnt Teach You in School. Blanco said, PVCC is different than Otto Krause in many ways, for example, students at Otto Krause cannot choose their schedule. The community has welcomed Blanco and PVCC professors are even hosting him at their houses. One of his hosts, Professor of English and Writing Center Coordinator Jennifer Koster, visited Otto Krause for two weeks last year. On her trip, she attended English, literature, and history classes and visited the schools Laboratorio de Lenguas, which was inspired by PVCCs Writing Center and mainly helps students with English. The faculty at OK made me [and my family] feel very welcome. We learned a lot about the Argentine educational system, as well as the history and culture of Argentina, said Koster. In order to apply to the student exchange program, go to the PVCC website, https:// www.pvcc.edu/, or contact Chair of Humanities & Social Sciences Kit Decker. Page 6 Late-Start Classes: What You Should Know Jessica Adkins, assistant editor Late-start classes are a hidden treasure at PVCC that some people may not know about. If someone misses the sign-up deadline and wants to take a certain class, they do not have to wait until Summer to take that class. There are certain classes during the semester that start later than others. Students have until Feb. 12 to register for 10-week classes. I made the realization of late-start classes my first fall semester at PVCC when I signed up for ENG 121 introduction to journalism I. I made the same realization when I signed up for a sociology class. Since it started later in the semester, it had its pros and cons. Late-start classes are not necessarily longer in instruction time than regular start classes. While the class is in a shorter time frame, as far as weeks are concerned, students are still in class for the same amount of time as a 16-week course. If a student is new to the college, they may not know about late-start classes and could easily sign up for one. Thinking it is a regular class, the student could try to show up to the assigned room that the class is held in and find out that it does not start for another month. PVCC offers a wide variety of late-start classes for those who are busy during the first month of school or just enjoy taking shorter classes. PVCC offers late-start categories in both General Studies and Liberal Arts degrees. Meet with an advisor in Admissions and Advising to learn more about late-start classes. Page 7 Climate Forum Shares Green Solutions The Green Grannies entertain the crowd. Photography by Deadra Miller Deadra Miller, online editor On Jan. 24, PVCC hosted the Community Climate Forum in conjunction with CVille 100 Climate Coalition to discuss the reduction of carbon emissions throughout Albemarle County and Charlottesville. Four different speakers were present to discuss their diverse solutions to the growing problem. The first speaker was PVCC Biology Lab Manager Jennifer Scott. Scott spoke about how the polar ice caps are melting minute by minute. She pointed out that there are many cities across the United States that have made commitments to using 100 percent renewable electricity. She then posed the question to the audience, when will Charlottesville become 100 percent renewable electricity? The two closest areas in Virginia that are committed are Blacksburg, Virginia and Floyd County Virginia. Right now only 40 percent of the United States, which adds up to 16 states, have formed a climate alliance within their state. Scott also pointed out that the United States cannot withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement until after the 2020 Presidential Election. Amory Fischer of Community Housing Partners (CHP) advertised a Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) that helps lowerincome families improve energy efficiency within their homes. Locally, WAP has a service zone that covers most of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Sean Farber of Charlottesville Renewable Energy Alliance (REA) and Sun Tribe Solar spoke about how the REA was working with nine companies to help Charlottesville transition into solely using solar energy. Charlottesville is trying to complete four phases within a three-year time frame. These phases are confirming that the Charlottesville community will be helping reduce the use of fossil fuels, which the city has completed; taking inventory of Charlottesvilles greenhouse gasses, which is also completed; trying to meet their target of reducing a majority of Charlottesvilles greenhouse gas emissions by June 2019; and enacting their plan of going totally solar in and around Charlottesville by June 2020. Fischer produced a call to action for Charlottesville to follow by attending the next City Council meeting that is being held on Friday, Feb. 1. The final speaker was Adjunct English Instructor Lisa Glassco. The main idea of her speech was going green by eating. Glassco presented numerous facts about saving trees, oxygen, and soil by eating vegetarian. She also said that there are over 50 celebrities past and present that have converted to eating vegetarian. Contrary to some popular views, eating vegetarian saves more than just cattle; it saves trees, breathable oxygen, and even our natural resources. In between each of the speakers were the Green Grannies, a group of older women that provide entertainment and education at the same time with song. They sang songs that were promoting solar energy usage and many other ways to save the natural resources available on Earth. For more information about any of these companies or sources please visit CVille 100s website https://www.cvilleclimate.org/ or contact any one of the panelists via their respective companies. Page 8 Reclaiming Civil Society Through Dialogue Bryn Dotson, assistant editor In 2016, the country was plagued by extreme political division. The presidential election resulted in a severe crack in the countrys unity. In 2017, while the immediate aftermath of the election had subsided, the country was left with a visible scar. PVCCs annual Civic Leadership Conference has been designed to help mend those wounds and create a safe, respectful space to educate and engage students on politics. Also to emphasize the importance of getting involved and having their voices heard. This years event, which is specifically focused on the students reclaiming students civil society, is especially important. Gen-Z and millennials are going to rule the world, said Assistant Professor of Political Science Connie Jorgensen. In this political climate, the baby boomers are handing off the political baton to the younger generations; being educated on issues is critical for survival. Jorgensen highlighted the significance of the conference, saying that it can be a helpful way to solve bad political situations and wicked problems. During the event, there will be many opportunities for students to use their voices, including a Deliberative Dialogue session. Jorgensen explained that students facilitate dialogues that allow them to express their thoughts and positions on specific topics. She strongly encourages students to make an appearance: Students who have attended one or more of these events have only given us positive feedback. There are five different panels throughout the event that cover an array of topics. These panels include debates on the electoral college, discussing if media is a foe rather than a friend, social activism, and more. Throughout the day, there will be question and answer sessions for students to continuously engage in. The conference will be held in the Bolick Student Center in the Main Building on Feb. 16 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The registration is free of charge and opens next week. The school will offer breakfast and lunch. Jorgensen stresses that students who are interested in attending should sign up early, as there are only 100 spots available. For more information, keep an eye out for the updated website page for 2019s conference. Questions or concerns? Contact Jorgensen at cjorgensen@pvcc.edu. Register and tell your friends to come, said Jorgensen. Photo Courtesy of PVCC Office of Marketing and Media Relations Page 9 Student Organizations at PVCC Adult Student Life Club Adviser Denise McCalahan, dmccalahan@pvcc.edu American Sign Language Club Adviser Susan Hannifan, shannifan@pvcc.edu Anime Club Adviser Noriko Donahue, ndonahue@pvcc.edu Art/Film Series Adviser Beryl Solla, bsolla@pvcc.edu Black Student Alliance Adviser Justin Wert, jwert@pvcc.edu Board Game Club Adviser Bruce Glassco, bglassco@pvcc.edu Book Club Adviser Crystal Newell, cnewell@pvcc.edu Brony Club Adviser Michael Ferero, mferero@pvcc.edu Chess Club Creative Writing Club Adviser Jennifer Koster, jkoster@pvcc.edu Engineering/Makers Club Adviser Hunter Moore, hmoore@pvcc.edu French Club Adviser Kris Swanson, kswanson@pvcc.edu Gender Equality Club Adviser Connie Jorgensen, cjorgensen@pvcc.edu German Club Adviser Patricia Jassmann, pjassmann@pvcc.edu Graphics Club Adviser Aaron Miller, amiller@pvcc.edu Homeschool Club HOPE@Piedmont Adviser HopeAtPiedmont@gmail.com Horticulture & Environmental Club Co-advisers David Lerman, dlerman@pvcc.edu, or Jennifer Scott, jscott@pvcc.edu International Club Adviser Irina Timchenko, itimchenko@pvcc.edu CRU Adviser Andr Luck , aluck@pvcc.edu Investment Club Adviser: Mahmood Moghimzadeh, mmoghimzadeh@pvcc.edu Cybersecurity Club Adviser Richard Seweryniak, rseweryniak@pvcc.edu Japan Club Adviser Noriko Donahue ndonahue@pvcc.edu Dance Club Adviser Michelle Cooper, mcooper@pvcc.edu Latter-Day Saints Adviser Andrew Renshaw, arenshaw@pvcc.edu Earth Guardians Adviser pvcc.earth.crew@gmail.com LGBTQA Advisers Barbara Heyl, bheyl@pvcc.edu, Dr. Jessica Kingsley jkingsley@pvcc.edu Page 10 Student Organizations at PVCC contd Math Club (Mu Alpha Theta) Advisers Karen Overman koverman@pvcc.edu, and Justin Storer jstorer@pvcc.edu Music Club Adviser Brianne Little, blittle@pvcc.edu Pagans & Wiccans (PAW) Adviser Colum Lecky, cleckey@pvcc.edu People Empowering People (PEP) Adviser Susan Hannifan, shannifan@pvcc.edu Phi Theta Kappa Advisers Bruce Robinson, brobinson@pvcc.edu, and Kit Decker, kdecker@pvcc.edu Student Government Association (SGA) Adviser Shawn Anderson sanderson@pvcc.edu Student Launch Team Adviser Yana Goddard, ygoddard@pvcc.edu Student Nurses Association of Piedmont (SNAP) Student Veterans of America (SVA) Adviser Jacquelyn Fisher, jfisher@pvcc.edu The Forum Adviser Tamara Whyte, twhyte@pvcc.edu VA 21 Adviser Connie Jorgensen, jorgensen@pvcc.edu Pottery Club Adviser Tom Clarkson, tclarkson@pvcc.edu Vegan Club Adviser Elsa Spencer, espencer@pvcc.edu Psychology Club Adviser Michael Rahilly, mrahilly@pvcc.edu Ultimate Frisbee Club Adviser John Gulley, jgulley@pvcc.edu PVCC Volunteer Club Adviser Todd Platts, tplatts@pvcc.edu Read more about each club on our website. Scan this code to go there now: Radiography Club Adviser Nicole Winkler, nwinkler@pvcc.edu Rotoract Club Adviser Miriam Rushfinn, mrushfinn@pvcc.edu Science Club Adviser Anne Allison, aallison@pvcc.edu Sonography Club Adviser Lisa Burrington, lburrington@pvcc.edu Spanish Club (Club de Espaol) Advisers Kit Decker, kdecker@pvcc.edu, and Jorge Grajales-Diaz, jgrajalesdiaz@pvcc.edu Page 11 Photo courtesy of PVCC Fine Arts & Performances Improvising The World of Improv Madison Weikle, staff writer Improv at its heart is the art of making the other person look good on stage. It is saying Yes to everything that your partner and the environment gives you and then adding an and. Its filling in the context for the audience and your partner by hinting at Who What Where and When in every scene in some way so that each moment is filled with awe of possibilities and also grounded in the moment, said Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts Brad Stoller. Stoller has been leading the Third Friday Improv Series at PVCC for five years. Workshops take place from 6-7 p.m. every third Friday of the month in the Dickinson Black Box Theatre. Stoller says it is all about working in the moment, no matter where, or when the moment is. It might be five hundred years ago in Shakespeare world with an aging queen barging into your bedroom to demand human sacrifice for the slanders you have written about her, or just a dog and his child playing frisbee on the beach while mom and dad fight over what to have for dinner, said Stoller. Third Friday Night Improv is open to everyone, students and non-students alike. Stoller said there is a variety of people who show up; there is not one type of person who does improv. I direct these improvisations with whoever shows up. I get senior citizens and middle schoolers. The retired professors and the dropouts. They all want to learn to play again because almost universally we have lost that ability to drop our particular mortal coil and grasp desperately to those things we know than fly to adventures we know not of, said Stoller. The next workshop will take place on Friday Feb. 22, 2019, from 6-7 p.m. in the Dickinson Black Box Theatre on PVCCs Main Campus. Stoller said, Take a risk and ask for more. Youll be surprised by how often the universe says yes back to you. Page 12 Preview: Having the Time of My Life Madison Weikle, staff writer adjustments to the play. Staples said, One change we are introducing in this production is to make it somewhat more accessible to current audiences, is to make the character of Maureen, written as a lower-class exuberant and flamboyant female hairdresser, looked down on by the middle -class Stratton family, into Maur, an ambiguously androgynous glam goth hairdresser, looked down on by the middle-class Stratton family. I believe that non-standard gender identity as a, mistaken, reason for disdaining someone should be very recognizable, and often relatable, to current audiences. The performance will take place April 4-6 from 7:30-9 p.m. and April 7 at 2:30-4 p.m., and will star Alex Citron as Gerry Stratton, Shelley Cole as Laura Stratton, Bob Abbott as Glyn Stratton, Rain Eguiguren as Stephanie Stratton, Corey Darnellas Maur, and Shane Rose as Calvinu. Staples said, The main reason I like volunteering for PVCC Theatre is that PVCC Theatre approaches student theatre in a way I havent seen before in Charlottesville. The goal is to involve as many students as possible in every production, while at the same time crafting the experience to expose them to real-world production processes, to give them the opportunity to work closely with non-student performers and technical staff, and to create a performance that draws people from the community at large based on the performance quality. Time Of My Life is about many things, all at the same time. A tightly-knit, somewhat insular family doing the things that a family is supposed to do, despite the stresses engendered by their interpersonal relationships, said Director Chip Staples. Staples is directing PVCCs Spring Production Time of My Life by Alan Ayckbourn. Time Of My Life will be his first directing experience. Staples said, I've been working with PVCC Theatre in many capacities for the past few years, including as performer, stage manager, and assistant director. When we were discussing the Spring, 2019 plays, Brad Stoller (PVCC Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts) invited me to direct one of them. I had already been thinking that I was ready to direct a play, so the opportunity came at the perfect time for me. Unlike previous PVCC performances, Staples is not looking for a community impact. He says, I think Time Of My Life is a play that will have more of an impact on individuals rather than the community at large. It doesnt touch on large issues like West Side Story or Cabaret but rather on individual self-knowledge, close, but not necessarily healthy, interpersonal relationships, and the ways in which an insular group, such as a family, can unintentionally damage itself and its members while believing itself to be supportive. A glamourous performance is not Staples goal, he said he is working towards building each character and helping them create a life story. He said, I see this play as having a very closed, even claustrophobic feel to it, and I want to convey that through the set, the performance, and the character interactions. He said he hopes to work towards an intimate setting through the relationships between characters and minimal movement of set and actors. Working on the relationships between characters is one thing, but Staples is hoping to create individual connections with the audience as well. To accomplish this, he has decided to make his own Photo courtesy of PVCC Fine Arts & Performances Page 13 Photography by Madison Weikle Pet Away Stress with Marley the Dog Liberty Anderson, staff writer Throughout the semester, PVCC has events to de-stress its students. The student government association in conjunction with the student success office plans most of the destress events. The college knows that anxiety and stress are major factors in a students life. Its okay to reach out, said David Lerman, director of student success and retention. Keep in mind throughout the semester that there are caring and compassionate people available to help you. For the past three semesters, PVCC has brought in a certified therapy dog named Marley. Marley, a Bernese mountain dog, is a part of Love on a Leash, a nonprofit that allows pet therapy owners and their animals to engage the community. Marley goes to the Johnson and Cale elementary schools as well as PVCC throughout the year. According to Lerman, last time Marley came to PVCC, There was a flood of students, sitting on the floor. They left with smiles on their faces, said Amanda Urban, Marleys owner. Taking time to sit back and pet a dog is a great way to relax and take a break. Throughout the semester, remember to take a break. Remember the resources available to you: Coaching, counseling, and de-stress activities. PVCC cares about the well-being of its students. Students simply need to reach out. Page 14 Entrepreneurs Talk Trade Tips and Internships Shawn Kochhar, assistant editor prospects. They are looking for hard working individuals that are open to learn new things, and have a fresh outlook on the world. This was also an opportunity for these employers to explain what they are searching for within their companies and search for interns who can help them continue to grow their company. An internship, most times unpaid, is a great way to develop skills in that field or into other fields student may be going into. When asked about internships, Matthew Gibson said If you are civically engaged and you are passionate about helping society, you can also go out and do volunteer work. Follow your gift; your gift will make room for you, said Lorenzo Dickenson. On Jan. 24, students and staff gathered in the North Mall Meeting Room to hear from three entrepreneurs who each own their own companies. They were business owners in the arts and humanities field. It was an opportunity for attendees to learn about how these entrepreneurs started their businesses, about their ideals and how they excel at what they do. It was also a way for students to learn about what employers are looking for in employees and interns as well as way for the employers to branch out to the community and answer questions from possible prospects. Andre Luck, career services manager at PVCC, hosted the meeting. The panelists that attended were Lorenzo Dickenson, filmmaker and social media marketer of Maupintown Media; Emily Morrison, cofounder and executive director of The Front Porch; and Matthew Gibson, executive director of Virginia Humanities. This event was a great way for students to learn about the mindset of employers who are looking to hire, the type of positions they Left to right Gibson, Luck, Morrison, and Dickenson. are looking for, and the attitudes they seek in Photography by Shawn Kochhar Workforce Services Offers Variety of Options Jamie Blake, staff writer When deciding what one wants to do with their life, there are many paths to take and options to choose from. It can feel overwhelming going back to school for so long, because it is not for everyone. The thought of trying to go through the process might not appeal to everyone, which is why most community colleges, like PVCC, offer a work services program. Workforce Services at PVCC offers a variety of options for people who are looking to go into a certain field that requires industrial training. PVCC offers Nursing programs, CDL Training, and Business classes for individuals seeking work without the drawn out process of a degree. The Dean of Workforce Services Valerie Palamountain has been monumental to PVCCs success and the successful members of society. Health and wellness courses offered at PVCC have lead to careers in hospitals for students. The CDL program generates about 150-200 certifications each year. Workforce services offers courses here on campus to kids who are in grades first through tenth to further their education in arts and STEM. This program has opened many doors for these young kids and approximately 40 percent of the kids in these programs continue college at PVCC, said Valerie. Workforce Services offers a wide variety of opportunities for the Charlottesville community. If you want to seek options besides a degree, check out Workforce Services located in the Stultz Center, the first building on the right as you turn onto College Drive. Page 15 Leslie Odom Jr. Shares His Success Story at JPJ Rachel Lemley, staff writer better sight. If you wanted the best and closest seating, be prepared to wait in long lines and be Leslie Odom Jr. had once said, The path to slightly uncomfortable in the fold out chairs at the moments of greatness in your life will be paved, front. in part, with your spectacular failures, At 2 p.m. After some uplifting and upbeat songs from on Jan. 19, over a thousand UVA students and the musical groups of Black Voices Gospel Choir residents of Charlottesville gathered at the John and Under The Stairwell, Leslie Odom and UVA Paul Jones arena to hear author and actor Leslie president Jim Ryan took the stage to talk about Odom Jr. speak. Although he is known primarily life, failing, and working towards what you love. for his role as Aaron Burr in the Broadway hit Although I wish Odom would have spoken Hamilton, Odom came to Virginia to give advice, more about his experiences in Hamilton and taken speak about his life, and promote his additional time to offer advice, he did an excellent autobiography Failing Up. job of answering the questions thoroughly and Many people, including my friends and I, giving the audience many things to think about. stood out in the rain for two hours to be able to He gave his opinions on civil rights, raising his get his autograph; the first 50 people to buy his daughter, and finding a pathway in life. book ($20) were allowed to meet him. The wait At the end of the talk, despite all of us was long and exhausting, but it was worth it when assuming he would perform a song from we got to see him because Odom was kind and Hamilton, he sang something more classic. He is easy to talk to. very talented, and it was touching nonetheless. The venue itself was large, but the acoustics Afterward, those who were the first 50 to buy his were great, making for a great interview and book lined up excitedly to meet the star. experience. The smell of popcorn hung heavily in Even though we did not get much time with the air as we frantically shuffled through the Odom, it was uplifting to meet such an crowds of people to find a decent spot. inspirational individual, and he left a kind note in Distant conversations echoed across the open each of the books we purchased. His book, space. Seating varied from the rough metal seats Failing Up, was both informational and on the floor to the cushy theatre seats on the sides inspirational, and I enjoyed reading about all his of the arena that gradually rose to allow for a experiences, both good and bad. Overall, it was a memorable experience without too much waiting; however I wish that Leslie Odom Jr. had left additional time for talking and one or two Hamilton songs. The event was not expensive, since tickets were free, and the John Paul Jones arena, although crowded, was spacious and comfortable. The effort was definitely worth the experience. I encourage the reader to check out JPJ and Leslie Odoms autobiography Failing Up to decide for Photography by Rachel Lemley themselves. Page 16 Hollywood Starlet Dazzles Moviegoers Tiana Sigala, staff writer One of cinemas most dynamic figures has returned to the big screen for a limited time. Charlottesvilles Alamo Drafthouse Cinema has arranged an eight-week series of Mondays with Audrey; each week hosting an Audrey Hepburn film, bringing together cinephiles and film newbies alike to enjoy one of Hollywoods most beloved darlings. It can be difficult to review classic films, partly because there is not much to be said that has not been said already and partly because who could be so vain as to feel they have a new spin on such, beloved films. What does a millenial have to say about movies twice their age? While it seems integral to the culture of youth to criticize things of age, to consider them outdone, or write them off simply because of their age, this urge fails the collective mind when it comes to Hepburn movies. Herein lies the secret that makes this event a winner: there is something that never dies about these classic films. The jokes are still crisp and the wit is still cutting and clever. Hepburns beauty and mid-Atlantic elocution are timeless in their elegance. Moreover, the themes themselves have endured. To watch Princess Ann play out the battle between her role as a monarch and her desperate want to experience life free of this duty, is to recognize immediately ones own desire to live a life unencumbered by responsibility, weightless as a bird, or a gorgeous young dame on a vespa in Rome. To see Hepburns doe-eyes well up with tears upon watching her unrequited love dance with another is to feel for Sabrina, either in solidarity or in envy of a love so all encompassing as that of a young chauffeurs daughter for the playboy Larrabee. The struggle young Jo Stockton faces in living by her ideals and morals while the world around her demanded she be something she didnt believe in, to act as a pawn for an industry she didnt subscribe to, is something most young people must come to terms with a bit of familiarity, wrapped up in endearing dance numbers and fashion by Givenchy to boot. Beyond the inescapable presence and life of Audreys first few films, we would be remiss not to mention the care the host took to create ambience. Alamo Drafthouse Creative Director James Sanford spoke before and after the screenings to give some trivia and background, and to tie the production up in a neat bow, offering comical considerations as far as the rumor mill of the times, or actor squabbles. And if youre pleased with your service, please remember to tip your waiters, as theyve already had lucrative offers from the Larrabee estate, quipped Sanford before the Sabrina showing. This group address served to give the experience a personal and precious feeling, as though the theatre were not a room full of strangers come together to watch a movie, but instead a room of friends, come to laugh and enjoy a classic together. There is little to be said of the theatre itself that isnt derivative of some other review; the seats are comfy, and doubly so if you choose a row where the seats recline. The menu is large and somewhat varied, but rather expensive snacks run between $6 - 8.99, entrees between $9.90 - 13.90 and rather heavy. One could find, after having tried a few of the entrees, that the food is a bit too decadent, with use of oils and cheeses approaching greasy, and alternative diet options limited and ill-thought -out. Overall, the Alamo Drafthouse has hit a homerun with its decision to host Mondays with Audrey. In bringing back these fan favorites, the cinema allows fans young an old a chance to view the starlets pictures as they were meant to be seenin Technicolor and Dolby Digital sound. Alamo offers a look into Hepburns life her upbringing, shining moments, and her scandals in a cozy and inviting setting, with all the trappings of a high-quality if a bit indulgent theatre experience. Mondays with Audrey will run until February 25, featuring such titles as Wait Until Dark and Breakfast At Tiffanys, at the comparatively low price of $10 per ticket. Showtimes and tickets can be found on the Charlottesville Alamo Drafthouse Cinema website. Page 17 Delicious Sandwiches at Ivy Provisions Jamie Blake, staff writer Tucked off to the side of Ivy road, there is a quaint restaurant that the people of Charlottesville have grown to love. The menu is eclectic, serving different sandwiches, homemade sides and hot coffee. All the food is prepared fresh daily to give you the most for your money. If you drive too fast you will miss it. The restaurant is Ivy Provisions, and it is an absolute gem in the Charlottesville community. Ivy Provisions, or IVP, serves up the freshest sandwiches, for breakfast or lunch, and different salads and sides to go with them. They also accommodate people with a coffee bar, equipped to make all the coffee drinks. Their fridge is stocked full of homemade juices, craft beers, and different sodas. The experience of eating at IVP is one that will make you feel satisfied when you leave. The choices on their menu will make it hard for you to choose. Some of the options they offer are excellent breakfast sandwiches that come with something they like to call a souffle egg that you will not find anywhere else. The sandwiches are packed full of egg, meat, and cheese. They also have more sophisticated options, such as their sandwich the Cali Girl which has souffle egg, arugula, avocado, and herb cream cheese. All the breakfast sandwiches are served on homemade biscuits with prices ranging from $5-9. Their lunch options are just as great, if not better. The chicken shack ($10) is a crowd favorite with fried chicken, pimento cheese, smoked bacon, pickles, onion, and lettuce on a baguette. The lunch sandwiches range in price and all give you that homemade feel. I spoke to Seth Dusci, a customer at IVP, and he said, I always like to come here because I know I will be getting something good every time. I like to change what I am getting each time too because I know everything is good! Ivy Provisions is at 2206 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, and are open Monday-Saturday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Photography by Jaime Blake Page 18 Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at J-Petal Montana Mitchell, staff writer Starting with one store in Brooklyn, New York, J-Petal has become a popular Japanese crepe and Thai ice cream shop all over the East Coast. Now people in Charlottesville can enjoy it too. J-Petal specializes in fresh and healthy foods. They offer fresh fruit, meat, and vegetables in their crepes. Every option also includes gluten-free ingredients and rice flour. We say choosing J-Petal is choosing health because its true! says employee Megan. J-Petal is near the center of the Barracks Road Shopping Center. When first walking into the shop, people smell the sweet aroma of fruit and ice cream. Along with the sugary smells, J-Petal has an aesthetically pleasing look. Glowing neon lights, marble designed tile floors, and a giant art piece of angels and the moon are some of the dcor that makes J-Petal unique in design. Deciding what to order can be the hardest part. Choosing between their rolled ice cream, sweet crepes, savory crepes, light bulb drinks, and specialty drinks can be tricky. People can be overwhelmed with all of the pictures they provide of their yummy foods and drinks. After choosing Photography by Montana Mitchell Photography by Montana Mitchell what to order, people can also modify the dishes to be exactly what they want. Jessica Knight, a customer of J-Petal said, This is like a Chipotle of desserts and food. There is so much to choose from and so much to add to them. I chose the Matcha Chocolate Truffle. Just like this sweet crepe, every crepe they offer has some kind of fruit in them. The Matcha Chocolate Truffle ($8.75) consists of strawberries, bananas, homemade chocolate truffles, almonds, vanilla ice cream, whipped yogurt, matcha custard cream, and two chocolate Pocky sticks. Once the food is chosen, people get to watch the cooks make their food right in front of them. The techniques they use are performed like in a high-end Sakura Japanese restaurant. J-Petal serves their crepes in a metal stand so customers do not have to hold them while they eat. It is helpful and makes the crepe easier to observe, as they are beautiful. Aside from the appearance, they taste as good as they look. The crepes are soft, the fruit tastes fresh and the ice cream included tastes great. J-Petal is open seven days a week. 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Page 19 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Jessica Adkins Bryn Dotson Shawn Kochhar Callan Shore Online Editor Deadra Miller Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Samantha Aldridge Liberty Anderson Francesca Black Jamie Blake Cody Clark Bryn Dotson Ryan Foresman Teddie Frock Kaytlynne Gentry Kylie Hoffman Shawn Kochhar Rachel Lemley Deadra Miller Montana Mitchell Charles Parziale III Elizabeth Phan Callan Shore Tiana Sigala Madison Weikle Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com December 2018 Piedmont Virginia Community College Find tips to decrease stress on pages 12-13 Brighten Your December at Let There Be Light Liberty Anderson, staff writer It is the sweetest thing in life, art and free food, said Beryl Solla, chair of visual and performing arts and professor of arts. Join PVCC on Friday Dec. 7 from 6-9 p.m. PVCCs 12th annual Let There Be Light. Let There Be Light is PVCCs biggest event and always becomes the focus of the college and the community. Hot chocolate, apple cider, and banana bread will be free to all. Upon arrival, attendees are provided a flashlight and a map. The event features lightbased temporary sculptures. The event brings the community together. According to Solla, attendees come from all around, and there is no doubt you will run into people you know from many areas of your life. Last year over 3,000 people came through in a three-hour time period. Thats a lot of hot chocolate, said Solla. According to Solla, It is the perfect event; it is magical. Solla said that the work for Let There Be Light is so overwhelming they sometimes doubt they can keep the tradition alive. But it is a part of the community and is always worth all of the work the college puts into it. Let There Be Light was meant to be a one time thing, but it became an instant tradition. Over 500 people came the first year, and it has grown every year since. From year to year every exhibit changes, always bigger and better to meet the communitys expectations. Other than the artists and exhibits, only logistics change to make the event run better each year. It is a college-wide event in every sense of Continued on page 4 In This Issue Photography by Ashtin Bowman, artist of the piece PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Safety -pg. 7 Classes Charity Science -pg. 17 Reviews -pgs. 18-23 Classifieds -pgs. 8-9 -pgs. 10-11 -pg. 24 DATES TO REMEMBER Gallery Exhibition * Nov. 30 - Jan. 30 PVCC Theatre presents As You Like It ^ Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2, 2:30 p.m. Dickinson Main Stage Annual Pottery Club Sale * Dec. 1, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Nicholas Day/End of Semester Party * Dec. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Bolick Student Center Stress Relief with Marley the Dog * Dec. 4, 1-3 p.m. Dec. 5, 12-2 p.m. Dec.6, 11a.m. to 1 p.m. North Mall Meeting Room Dance Club Showcase * Dec. 6, 7 p.m., Dickinson Main Stage Virginia Museum of Fine Arts on the Road * Dec. 7, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dickinson Parking Lot Let There Be Light * Dec. 7, 6-9 p.m., Dickinson Building and Grounds PVCC Holiday Chorus Concert * Dec. 9, 3 p.m. Dickinson Building Classes End Dec. 10 Final Examinations Dec.11-17 Classes begin Jan. 14, 2019 *Free Event ^Student Vouchers Available Be Heard with the PVCC Survey Liberty Anderson, staff writer Every semester, PVCC does a student satisfaction survey. The college seeks to improve upon itself, making important decisions based on the feedback received from the survey each semester. By completing the Student Survey, you are entered in a raffle for a chance to win a free three-credit course. The survey is created and administered by PVCC's Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness (IRPIE). An essential part of continuous improvement and measuring institutional effectiveness at the College is the assessment of college programs and services, said Jolene Hamm, director of IRPIE. The college wants to do its best to provide helpful and satisfactory tools for students. PVCC wants to know about your experiences as an individual student. Student services are provided to you so that you can do the best you can. PVCC wants you to return the favor by allowing them the tools and information to do the best that they can to help you. Your feedback is important to them. The survey allows the college insight from the student body themselves. Staff learn what they are doing well and what needs improvement. Students can be heard through the survey. The surveys are compiled, reviewed, considered, and eventually acted upon. Let your voice be heard and participate in improving the college as a whole. You can find the survey on Blackboard or go to www.pvcc.edu/ studentsurvey. The survey is open from Oct. 22 to Dec. 15. Page 2 Student Government Association News Sophia Keniston, SGA president The SGA will be hosting two large events to finish out the Fall semester. From Monday, Nov. 26 to Dec. 7, we will be hosting a Shoe Box Drive to collect numerous types of gifts for children at Ronald McDonald House. This list includes items such as shoe boxes to pack the gifts into, clothing items, accessories, personal care items, toys, personal notes, small musical instruments, small easy crafts and activities for the children to keep busy. The children range in age from 6 months to 13 years old. We will have an SGA members to collect donations from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and a donation box near the SGA podium under the 100-wing sign in the Bolick Student Center. Donations will be packed and distributed locally. The SGA is also hosting its bi-annual DeStress week. Days are to be determined. Photo courtesy of Ronald McDonald House Student Government Association Town Hall Ryan Foresman, staff writer The PVCC Town Hall meeting occurred Nov. 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It was run by PVCCs Student Government Association. Sophia Keniston, president of SGA, oversaw the town hall. It covered a wide array of topics that affect students. Security, buildings and grounds, and class diversity as well as social events and activities. The event felt under attended even though it was held in the auditorium there were at most 10 students present. Sophia Kenniston president of SGA remarked, How can we move forward without better presentation? Class diversity was brought up early in the Town Hall. PVCC students raised concerns about the lack of different career paths available, as well as a wider range of teaching styles. Students requested anything from more art-focused degrees to agriculture. Students suggested that by widening the scope of classes they could bring in people who otherwise would not attend a community college. Safety and security were an additional topic discussed. It was proposed that PVCC provide security patrols at either end of the basketball court as well as additional call boxes at either end of the path. It was requested that certain entry doors require key card access after certain hours. This would prevent non-students from having access to the building during hours when fewer faculty members are present. The final security topic was creating new ways for students to directly report sexual harassment. An off the wall suggestion was a Zen or nap room. This suggestion garnered some laughter but was otherwise taken seriously. It was proposed as a way to help students destress. This brought up the subject of workloads, some students thought classes focused too heavily on homework. Page 3 Let There Be Light, continued from page 1 the word, said Solla. Many professors help out and are passionate about the event, not just the art professors. Most of the outside help comes from the humanities and language professors, who help to feed the artists and prepare hot chocolate for the visitors. Preparation for Let There Be Light began back in June when they started to get commitments from artists. Artists are assigned an area, and they begin their sculpture design. Everything must be planned out and expectations must be met. In October, PVCC does inventory and they replace and repair anything that can no longer serve its purpose. They make sure they figure out all the logistics in time. Soon they will be purchasing the 53 gallons of apple cider and milk for hot chocolate, and 175 loaves of banana bread. Half of the year is spent in preparation Photo courtesy of Ashtin Bowman, artist of the piece for Let There Be Light, but regardless of how much preparation has been done, the rush on the final day is overwhelming. down their masterpieces in one day. They start making the food at 10 a.m., cutting It opens up art to the community, said Solla. loaves of bread around noon and setting candles This is what Let There Be Light means to her. out at 3 p.m. Come to PVCC on Friday, Dec. 7 from 6-9 p.m. As for the artists, they have to set up and take and find out what it means to you. Photo courtesy of Jeff Dobrow, artist of the piece Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Swider Page 4 Volunteer Opportunities in December Shawn Kochhar, staff writer from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Student volunteers can decide whether or not to dress as elves for the party. Students greet children at the door and facilitate activities such as face painting and decorating gingerbread cookies. The children can make cards using arts and craft supplies. There are also manicures for parents, and they are served a Christmas dinner with an ice cream sundae. It is funded mostly by local donations. The woman that runs the event collects donations from friends and people that live around Charlottesville. My favorite part about it all is that it is always heartwarming to help out a population that a lot of people forget about, said Dr. Platts. Most people when thinking of Christmas, think about helping people but tend to forget about kids who have incarcerated parents. The kids did nothing to have their parents put in jail, and its always nice to see the smiles on the kids faces because they are often forgotten about. In November, students met for the PVCC Volunteer Club to discuss upcoming events that they could volunteer for, led by Assistant Professor of Sociology Dr. Todd Platts. The first event was about helping with the Let There Be Light event, on Dec. 7, from 6-9 p.m. Volunteers are needed to put signs up in the Dickinson building, label exhibits, set up a lighted path, and help visiting artists set up their equipment. They also need students to help oversee certain areas of the show, which include handing out flashlights, maps and serving the food and drink A lot of help is needed to prepare for when they turn out all the lights on campus and begin the show. The tear down takes about an hour, so students can help anywhere from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Volunteers can come and go as they please and choose any time schedule they want. The second upcoming event that needs volunteers is a small nonprofit organization run out of a woman's house in the Charlottesville area called Santa Matters. It buys presents for children whose parents are in jail. They set up and throw a party at the Albemarle Regional Jail. Volunteers can meet on Dec. 9 at the persons house to wrap gifts and write tags on the gifts for the children and parents. The childrens ages range from 16 months to 18 years old. The Volunteer Club provides gifts for guardians as well as the kids, with different types of gifts for men and women. Volunteers create invitations for the kids, and call the guardians. The party is on the Dec. Last years Santa. Photo courtesy of Dr. Todd Platts 20 in the jail and runs Page 5 Young Voters Flood the Polls Callan Shore, staff writer make election day easy and straightforward. PVCC took part in this movement by Throughout history, it has disproportionately throwing a Get out to Vote Party and registering been the older generations who have turned out to students in the halls. Assistant Professor of vote on election days, especially for the midterm Political Science Connie Jorgensen was an elections. Younger people have tended to not influential figure in PVCC students turnout. make the effort to vote or to not understand the Jorgensen said, Unfortunately, we dont have the importance of voting. In the 2014 midterms, only tools to know exactly how many students PVCC 20 percent of people ages 18-29 voted, according students registered, but we estimate about 200. to the Center for Information and Research on It is unclear whether the social media Civic Learning and Engagement. movement was the catalyst, but a historic number On Nov. 6 of this year, halfway through of youth sent in absentee ballots or turned up to Trumps presidency, dozens of house, senate, and vote on Nov. 6. The Center for Information and gubernatorial seats were up for election. Research on Civic Learning and Engagement Activists of all ages, released polls showing knowing that this a 10 percent increase midterm election was in youth voting from especially crucial, the 2014 midterms. orchestrated campaigns This number is on social media to higher than ever encourage young people before. As shown by to show up at the polls. exit polls, 67 percent They made satirical of voters under 29 videos, such as one voted Democratic, where older people told contributing to the young voters that they Democratic takeover are unimportant, and of the House of Photography by Connie Jorgensen spread information to Representatives. Expressive Activity on Campus Jamie Blake, staff writer Virginia has passed a new law that requires public colleges and universities to draw up a policy about the freedom of speech, or expressive activity, on their grounds. PVCC stands behind the First Amendment and for expressive activity for students on campus and around the community. There is a link on PVCCs main page where you can learn more about the expressive activity policy that is being drawn up. The webpage states where it is acceptable to use expressive activity, how students or faculty can reserve spaces around campus, and where goods can be distributed. The webpage also includes helpful links, contact information if you want to learn more, and frequently asked questions. The main goal of the policy is to make guidelines for students and faculty of where they can express themselves and where they cannot. Expressive activity on campus includes meetings, speeches, performances and other events held on PVCC grounds. They also emphasize that they are still following the First Amendment and what that has always held true. The vice president for finance and administrative services of PVCC will be responsible for upholding the policy and following through with it. The vice president is also available with any questions the students or faculty has. If you would like more information on this topic, the policy is posted under college policies on the PVCC website: https://www.pvcc.edu/ about-us/college-policies/expressive-activity. Page 6 PVCC Safe Keeping You Safe Ryan Foresman, staff writer PVCC Safe is responsible for more than students may know. PVCC Safe encompasses all of the campus security and emergency response abilities. The university police department also falls under the umbrella of PVCC Safe. The campus police department has the equal authority of any other police department but focuses solely on the safety of PVCC and its student body. Many students do not know they prefer to counsel students over arresting or issuing a citation. The police department is also partly responsible for enforcing our schools new tobacco policy. The campus police are on call 24/7, and they will walk any student to their car if they feel uncomfortable walking alone, and are available if you have car trouble such as a flat tire, run out of gas, or need a battery jump. PVCC Safe also offers services for reporting stalking and sexual assault. Students can do this by going to PVCC Safes webpage and filling out a form in the sidebar. This opportunity opens the door for counseling resources students can be referred to. The office of the public safety is also one of the campus safe spaces. PVCC Safe is responsible for the daily emails students receive with helpful safety tips. These emails at times seem to be unnecessary, but in case of emergencies like weather events, fires, or active shooters, it alerts students as to the proper procedures to follow. The department of public safety can be found in the Main Building, Room M218 (at the West entrance). The office phone is 434-961-5319, the security officer cell phone is 434-981-6362, and the public safety officer or escort (24 hours a day) phone is 434-981-6362. How You can Help make PVCC a Safer Place Jessica Adkins, staff writer them to the form to be submitted to campus police. However, you do not need to give pictures PVCC students can anonymously take action to submit the report. At the end of the form, there if they need to report threats, crime, security or is a little area where the user must confirm that safety incidents on campus. However, many they are indeed not a robot. They can also select students do not realize that the service exists. To to be emailed a copy of the completed form. report, students or faculty can fill out the Incident PVCC officials are quick to respond and take Reporting Form on the PVCC Safe page of every incident report seriously. If there is an PVCCs website if they do not want to call the immediate threat, call 911 or PVCC campus campus police. police 434-981-6362. The form consists of various questions such When asked how the online form has as contact information, what type of incident they impacted the PVCC community, Security Officer are reporting, and a box that asks for a detailed Tavares Gray said it keeps us informed about description of what happened during the incident. whats going on around campus and crime has The incidents include many under the categories been down recently. This means that technology of academic integrity, classroom conduct, has the capability to make PVCC a safer place in concerning or threatening the future. behavior, general I think the online form misconduct, sexual is a good way to prevent violence/harassment, injury/ crime at school. I definitely illness, or security think it should be advertised incidents. more because the people If a student has who would use it the most evidence, such as pictures probably search it out, said or videos, they can attach PVCC student Mia Smith. Photography by Jessica Adkins Page 7 Humanities, a Class that Helps us Understand Charles Parziale, staff writer Humanities 201 (Survey of Western Culture I) is a class taught by David Berti, adjunct associate professor of humanities on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Three different faculty members will be teaching this course in the spring. Berti will teach a section of Humanities 201 in Spring 2019. It is a relaxed class where the students read classic literature and discuss how it relates to other books and humanity. Id recommend it because Mr. Berti is a cool teacher and the books are pretty neat, said Alexis Davidson, a student taking the course in Fall. The 201 Humanities class is a survey of western culture that will help students understand others through their languages, histories and cultures through the variety of stories and works of literature that the students will read and discuss in class. Students in this class build skills in reading and some writing. It helps students who seek to understand and interpret human experience from individuals to entire cultures. Engaging the students in the discovery of ancient classics to modern writings to ultimately help preserve them by making them understand their importance to civilization. The class does more than make students understand literature. It empowers and provokes them to think independently on how to make positive changes in their communities and the world, while they discover and reconstruct the knowledge that they acquire. Another thing students may not consider is that it can help them understand where we have come from, tracing the development of architecture from the classical columns of Greece to the reinforced steel skyscrapers of the modern age. The class is a place to feel comfortable in, to be able to discuss what some may be afraid to, such as politics and religion. It is also a good way to meet people in a class with a maximum amount of thirty students. Students are recommended to work together and participate in class discussions to help the students get to know one another. HUM 201 fulfills a requirement for humanities core course for the General Studies degree program, along with a few other majors. Working with Your Hands at PVCC Jamie Blake, staff writer There are many different classes people can take at PVCC that offer them a way into their future career path. There are also classes people can take that may be something they want to learn more about and have fun with it. The ART 153 beginner class and ART 154 advanced ceramics classes that PVCC offers are great classes to take for these options. The ceramics classes are taught by Tom Clarkson, who has been playing with clay for almost his whole life. He has his own studio at his home and creates different types of functional wear that people could use in their kitchen, or as a decorative piece in their home. The ART 153 class introduces the different techniques of clay and how many ways you can create something. There are several different projects throughout the semester in which each student must follow some simple rules, but also be as creative with it as possible. Kayla Harris, a current student in ART 153 class, said, I really took this class for the fun of it, but I have learned so much I am thinking of taking the advanced ceramics class next semester! In the ART-154 class, the techniques that the students learned in ceramics 1 are taken a level up. The students must complete projects with the techniques they have learned but add some new shapes and forms to them. The students need to make the pieces have different heights, textures and glazes to them. The ART 153 classes are offered on Wednesdays from 1-5 p.m. and Thursdays from 12:30-4:30 p.m. The advanced ceramics class is offered on Tuesdays from 6-10 p.m. The class is 4 credits and is taught in the Dickinson building. Page 8 Learning to Keep the World Informed Callan Shore, staff writer It is journalists duty to educate and inform the public. The media, specifically news publications, are one of the most important pieces of our democracy and have even been called the fourth branch of government. PVCC provides a direct path to becoming a journalist through The Forum and the Introduction to Journalism class, ENG 121. In Introduction to Journalism, students learn many media skills from the essential journalistic writing rules to how to layout a newspaper. Students also learn how to edit peer articles and cover community events. Students taking the class have the chance to have their articles published in the school newspaper, The Forum. Journalism student Montana Mitchell said, Journalism opened my mind to how journalism works in the real world, and gave me insight into how bias affects the news. Dr. Tamara Whyte, associate professor of English, teaches the class. Journalism 1 paves the way to further journalistic experience. After Journalism 1, students can take Journalism 2 or have an internship with Dr. Whyte. Journalism 1 helps students to improve their writing and Journalism students work on making this issue. Photography by Callan Shore express themselves at the college, said Dr. Whyte. Introduction to Journalism is a three-credit class on PVCCs main campus. It is an approved transfer elective in Liberal Arts and General Studies majors, as well as some others. The prerequisite for the class is ENG 111. Students who do not have time to take a class in journalism can join the Forum Club and be a staff writer. For the 2019 Spring semester, the class will take place in room M822 on Tuesdays and the Writing Center on Thursdays. The class runs from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. both days. Explore the Human Story in Anthropology Montana Mitchell, staff writer Ever had an interest in figuring out who you are and where you came from? If so, this Spring semesters SOC 210, Survey of Physical and Cultural Anthropology may interest you. SOC 210, a Social Sciences elective, will be taught online by Brian Robbins, an adjunct assistant professor of Sociology, who has been teaching forms of Anthropology since 2009. Anthropology is more than a trendy fashion brand. Anthropology is the study of humans in all times and places. This means that no matter your background, youre part of that great epic story called humanity. This is the story of you and how you came to be where and when you are. Anthropology is a class that applies to everyone, said Robbins. Choosing your schedule for the Spring semester can be challenging, but with SOC 210, you are learning more than typical information needed to pass the class. You are learning information about humanity itself. Anthropology is the story of every human that ever lived. It begins in the past and will end sometime in the future. Every aspect of life experienced. Every human is potential material for an anthropologist to study. So, ultimately, anthropology is the study of humans and it doesnt matter where you come from, what language you speak, or what you believe. This is your story. Lets see how your chapter fits into the ongoing epic that is humanity, said Robbins. Page 9 Dogs Deserve Better Fundraiser at Mezeh Charles Parziale, staff writer Mezeh Mediterranean Grill will be hosting a fundraiser for Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge on Dec. 5 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Forty percent of the proceeds of the evening go to the mission that helps neglected dogs chained outdoors in Central Virginia. At Mezeh, the food is made in house every day from all-natural fresh ingredients. They select ingredients meticulously to ensure that they do not contain additives, preservatives or any unnecessary sugars, salts or fat. Their main dishes are bowls of rice and pita with meat in them costing around $10, along with flatbread wraps around $9 and freshly baked pita pockets around $8. They also offer catering for events. Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge is a local chapter of Dogs Deserve Better Inc. This is a nonprofit organization dedicated to freeing chained and penned dogs. Their mission is to provide a better life for abused, neglected and abandoned canines. They have an entire team committed to helping dogs in the Central Virginia area. Getting a dog off the chain is something they take seriously each and every day to make it a reality for dogs. We strive to give dogs the best life we can, and sometimes that involves finding new homes where they can live inside as a cherished family member, according to their website. Also, they are working with local lawmakers to change the standard of living for outside dogs. Currently, it is legal to chain a dog outside regardless of weather conditions. It is their belief this is the one barrier to getting all dogs to the life they deserve. They also advocate and promote spaying and neutering dogs. They accept cash donations and supplies to build dog houses, though they also ask you to volunteer with them too. You can learn more at www.dogsdeservebetterblueridge.com. Mezeh Mediterranean Grill believes in giving back to the community with kindness and the spirit of generosity, according to their website. They want to spread as much love as possible to the neighborhoods according to their website. Photo courtesy of Mezeh Mediterranean Grill Page 10 PVCC Celebrates #GivingTuesday Ryan Foresman, staff writer According to NBC29, PVCC has more than 150 students each semester that require financial PVCC hosted Giving Tuesday on Nov. 27. aid. from 12-5 p.m. The idea behind Giving Tuesday The $7,500 that was raised by the Giving was to promote giving after the sales of Black Tuesday campaign will go towards student Friday and Cyber Monday. Pizza was given out as success initiatives. donations where received According to Vice President The money raised during of Institutional Advancement & Giving Tuesday will go towards Development Harry Stillerman, scholarships, the PVCC food Students and employees raised pantry, and the Kathy Hudson $1,083 for the Kathy Hudson emergency fund. The goal of the Student Emergency Fund. To event was to raise $25,000. Free celebrate this generosity, PVCC Panther pennants where President Friedman provided given to the first 100 students to matching funds this afternoon in donate. the amount of $1,083 to the Giving Tuesday marked Kathy Hudson Student their presence on Instagram Emergency Fund, bring our using the hashtag, Giving Tuesday total to Photography by #PVCCGivngTuesday. $8,583! Ryan Foresman Annual Thanks-4-Giving Dinner and Reception Shawn Kochhar, staff writer Every year, PVCC hosts a dinner for students, administrators, and donors to meet and have a reception. Scholarship & Alumni Association Coordinator Sylvia Dowell, who arranges the event, took over in 2010 when it was a lunch-in during school hours. In 2013, she changed it to a dinner at night to allow more donors and students to attend. The dinner and reception serve a few purposes: to thank the donors, to show how recipients were helped by the scholarships in the real world, and to showcase their talented students. In the past, they have had a quartet, a bluegrass band, gospel music, art students artwork, and a Piedmont Student Launch Team presentation that donors could walk around and ask about. We want to showcase the talent and intellect of the students to donors and active members of the community, said Dowell. The dinner normally takes place in the North Mall Meeting Room. However, this year it was in room 249, an advanced technology classroom. This classroom was used to show the donors some of the innovative creations that the students are working on. The reception was from 5-6 p.m. for donors and administrators only, and dinner was from 6-8 p.m. It was catered by the Blue Ridge Cafe from Ruckersville, a change from the usual menu consisting of traditional Thanksgiving dinner items. Recipients sat down with their donors to eat and talk about what they are doing and how they have been helped by the program. The school tries to have a combination of student and donor guest speakers. They give testimonials of their unique experiences since the students tend have different life stories. This showed the diversity of our student population. One of the donors said that they are invited to numerous dinners and events this time of year, but the scholarship dinner is their absolute favorite that they dont want to miss, said Dowell. An average of 150 students per year get scholarships, and 120-150 people attend the dinner. It always takes place two weeks before Thanksgiving Day. Page 11 Motivation to get Through Finals Montana Mitchell, staff writer As the end of the semester approaches, it can start to feel impossible to keep up with the snowstorm of school work. Studying becomes tedious, class readings become unbearable, and attending class feels like trying to run a marathon after barely running a mile. Students become low on energy and time, leaving them feeling unmotivated and tired. Despite these seemingly impossible-toovercome obstacles, there are many ways to get through the end-of-semester slump. For starters, making a set schedule of everything you need to do will help keep you organized. The end of the semester can make students feel as if they are running around with their heads cut off, especially without proper organization of everything they need to do. Making a schedule of what needs to be worked on will not only provide a set schedule, but also ensure that no assignments are forgotten. Missed assignments cause unnecessary stress and, if not realized in time, have the ability to lower grades. Paying attention in class is sometimes more than just being present. Being in class but being on your phone or falling asleep could cause you to fall off track. To prevent this, contributing to class discussion will not only keep you engaged but will also keep you up to date on everything that is happening, including assignments. When studying, figuring out what time of day works best for you is beneficial. A helpful piece of information to know is if you are a morning or night person. If you find yourself more awake and alert at night, studying at night could be more beneficial to you than studying in the morning. This works the same with being a morning person; if you find yourself more alert in the morning, studying in the morning could benefit you more than studying at night. Knowing your Share your completed Panther on social media @PVCCForum Page 12 Defeat your Test Anxiety continued... brain and when you process information best can be an incredibly helpful tool while powering through study season. Another way to stay motivated, especially with studying, is simply staying away from distractions. Social media is one of the biggest distractions people have. Scrolling endlessly through media like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat for hours at a time can be fun in the moment, but harmful to schoolwork in the long run. To prevent this, turning off your phone, putting it on airplane mode, or simply putting it in another room can help eliminate these tempting distractions. Another distraction can simply be other people. If you find yourself more present with the people around you, try isolating yourself from public settings. Keeping away from all distractions can help keep you motivated and undistracted. Let others know that for right now, you are focusing on school work. It may not seem like it in the moment, but going out with friends could impact your motivation to do school work. Missing that party may be the last thing you want to do, but remember what will impact your future the most. In three years, that party will not matter, but that bad grade might. Finally, and importantly, sleeping is crucial. Having enough sleep will not only help your alertness, but will also help with memory and learning. With enough sleep, you will find yourself no longer sleeping in class. You will have more energy, which increases motivation and increases your performance with studying. According to Healthy Sleep, the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Lowquality sleep and sleep deprivation also negatively impact mood, which has consequences for learning. Alterations in mood affect our ability to acquire new information and subsequently to remember that information. Although chronic sleep deprivation affects different individuals in a variety of ways (and the effects are not entirely known), it is clear that a good nights rest has a strong impact on learning and memory. Take a deep breath and hang in there. Finals season can be hard for everyone. Rest up, stay on top of schoolwork, and try to relax! Bryn Dotson, assistant editor In Preparation for the Exam Slow down. Make sure to carve out time for yourself to step away from the hustle and bustle. Take a bath, read a book, get a massage. Organize! Set out an hour to plan out your deadlines and test dates. Remember to unplug. Take a break from studying, from media, and be present. Go for a walk, meet up with a friend for coffee, meditate. Remember to ground yourself. Plan things to look forward to after the exam. A movie, a nice dinner, anything! The Day of the Exam Rub essential oils on your wrists before a test. Take a deep inhale. Youve got this! Make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep before an exam. Keep yourself aware and alert! Meditate before taking an exam. Meditate anywhere: at home, in bed, in your car. Listen to your favorite songs right before your test. Pump yourself up to succeed! Take a big breath. You know more than you think you do. Page 13 Finding Light in the Darkest of Times Montana Mitchell, staff writer I wanted to, but I wont. I choose to continue to live my life in the way As colder weather approaches, so does that God intended me to. I choose every day that seasonal depression. I am not one to open up and life is worth living, and it will never be my talk about the struggles I deal with, especially decision for when it ends. God has plans in line publicly. In fact, I try to shine positivity into the that not I, or anyone else, can see. That alone universe rather than the negativity my mental gives me hope on its own. illness portrays. The semicolon is a positive reminder for me I have been diagnosed with depression and that no matter what, I will always continue my anxiety since the age story. I will continue of fourteen and it has to live the life that been a constant battle was intended for me. of mine. Some days I Regardless of how have my highs, and low I may get, I will some days I have my always remember lows. It is a consistent that when I chose to battle of wondering if get this, I promised I actually have a place myself that along in the world and if my with this permanent life has any meaning tattoo comes a to it at all. I have days permanent decision where I feel alone, to keep living. even though I am Life has purpose, aware that I am not. and it is important for My thoughts not only I but consume me to the whoever else is point where I am reading this to incredibly quiet. I understand and never realize how know. I am more quiet I am until than my mental someone says illness makes me something about it. I believe. As are you. am always consumed If you or a loved in my own thoughts one is struggling with and forget that depression, please speaking is something never fear to reach I have not done. out to those around This past year of you. The National my life has tested me Suicide Prevention Photography by Montana Mitchell in ways that I can not Lifeline, which can even begin to explain. be reached at 1-800I have learned a lot and I have grown a lot, but in 273-8255, offers free emotional and confidential the midst of it all, I have been living with a support to anyone in need of it and are available mentality that those close to me may worry about. seven days a week, 24 hours a day. I recently felt inspired to get my first tattoo, a If calling the hotline is uncomfortable for you, semicolon. A semicolon is used when an author texting HOME to 741-741 will connect you with could have chosen to end their sentence, but a live and trained crisis counselor that will also chose not to. I chose this tattoo as a reminder; a offer emotional support in the form of texting reminder that I could choose to stop my life, I instead of calling. For more information, visit could choose to give up and end it all right now if https://www.crisistextline.org. Page 14 Virginias Epilepsy Epidemic Jamie Blake, staff writer In Virginia, the estimation of people living with epilepsy is 84,800. Dr. Nathan Fountain, neurologist at the University of Virginia, treats approximately 5,000 patients a year with epilepsy. He has been doing this since 1995, when he got his doctrine in medicine in Neurology and went on to become one of Virginias epilepsy specialists. Dr. Fountain graduated from the University of Iowa and then followed his dreams, to help people, by doing his residency at UVA. He continued by doing fellowships under the pioneers of epilepsy research, as he liked to call them, to then earn is MD in Neurology. Dr. Fountain has been in love with the brain and trying to understand what makes humans who they are. Dr. Fountain has achieved his goals with epilepsy through hard work and dedication and a lot of research to understand this disease. He has conducted clinical trials to understand what works best for patients who have different types of epilepsy. There are rare forms of epilepsy that are hard to treat and manage, and there are forms that can be controlled by medicine or require surgery to completely get rid of it. He has been a pioneer in getting the Food and Drug Administration to approve the use of cannabis for treating patients with epilepsy and after four years he has succeeded. He is currently working on a different solution, which he says, is less invasive than having to do surgery and will use ultrasound waves and the heat generated from the waves to remove the scarring on the brain that causes the patient to seize. This type of research is still very new, and he says he is having trouble getting people to be a part of the clinical trial, so he is not sure when this type of procedure will be available to patients. The type of work Dr. Fountain performs is monumental to the well-being of patients who suffer from epilepsy. If you have any other interest or questions about epilepsy, you should check out the epilepsy center at University of Virginia, which is located at 1215 Lee St. Photography by Jamie Blake Page 15 Photo Courtesy of Rainiah Gregory Unleashing Our Superhero Leaders Deadra Miller, online editor Unleashing ones super leader was the theme for 2018s Student Leadership Conference held at Founders Inn near Virginia Beach. This year revolved around figuring out our superhero identity and using it in leadership roles inside and outside of school. There were 28 different workshops that student leaders could attend taught by VCCS staff that came from all over the commonwealth with their respective colleges. There were sessions in the wide variety of determining your superhero identity to how to keep students in the club that you are in charge of. The students that attended the conference had to choose a session for one of the four time slots. I chose the art of mastering you: a self-leadership tool, superhero personality types, constructive communication with Legos, and the S.A.L.S.A. life with the master of ceremonies was Stanley Pearson. Salsa is an acronym for Support, Act, Learn, Strive, and Accept. All of these words tied into being a better leader with these traits helping you along the way. With 23 colleges across 40 different campuses spanning the commonwealth, some of the colleges had to travel a day early to make it to the opening events on Friday, Nov. 15. The keynote speakers during meals were James T. Robilotta, Joshua Fredenburg, Van Wilson and Millicent St. Claire. Robilotta spoke on Friday. He was charismatic and funny in explaining his role at the conference and promoted his book Leading Imperfectly. On Saturday morning, Fredenburg spoke about similar ideas to Robilotta. St. Claire, a life coach, was the speaker on Sunday morning and helped us understand that if we love ourselves, we can be a better leader. On Saturday night, the students split into their respective college groups for dinner. We returned to the Founders Inn for games and ice cream later that evening. Coordinator of Student Engagement and Student Life Shawn Anderson and Landon Hoffacker, a PVCC student, competed in a corn hole tournament and won against 22 other colleges. Sunday morning, all of the students and advisors met for the final meal of the conference. This conference was enlightening in ways that were unexpected. Individuals from various backgrounds were able to learn things about each other and how to interact without bias. Page 16 PVCC Alumnus and the Exploration of Mars Aleena Haidari, staff writer Have you ever wondered how would it be like to live in a different planet? Did you know that by 2033, human beings would be able to orbit Mars and return back to Earth within three years? If you are fascinated by the mysteries of space and interested in learning more about science, consider joining the Science Club. This club was established a year ago and has held numerous talks and events at PVCC. Professor of Biology Anne Allison, the faculty advisor for Science Club, said, This club was created to inspire students about their educational path, show them that there are myriads of jobs available in the science field, and motivate them to develop their own careers through experiences of the speakers. Science Club has invited many speakers including John Stewart, supervisor forensic examiner, DNA Unit, FBI; Tim Errington, director of metascience, Center for Open Science; and Rick Davis, who attended PVCC and currently works at NASA Headquarters as the assistant director for science and exploration in the Science Mission Directorate (SMD). According to his biography, he co-leads a joint SMD-HEOMD [Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate] study to begin the process of identifying potential human landing sites on Mars. He also had the opportunity to travel to Russia and work with the Russian scientists to develop new inventions in exploration of Mars. He spoke in the Science Career talks series last time and encouraged students to get internships in their fields of interest and take of advantage of other hands-on opportunities. He also advised that students should make the most out of their opportunities at PVCC and seek help in Math Center and their professors office hours. Davis discussed opportunities and jobs available for students who are interested in STEM and Science. For instance, STEM Takes Flight is an opportunity for community college students to take advantage of its resources to enhance their understanding of science and gain experience. This resource is an initiative that particularly provides opportunities such as internships and other hands-on experiences for community college students. If you are interested in Science and STEM, utilize resources available for you perhaps you might be next to explore Mars. You are Recycling that Wrong Montana Mitchell, staff writer Plastic bags are one of the most used items on this planet while also being one of the most toxic materials. Without proper disposal of plastic bags, they can be extremely harmful to the environment. Plastic bags take 10-1,000 years to decompose, and as they do, they slowly release toxic chemicals into the environment. To help prevent this, recycling is the best option. When recycling, it is important to know that recycling plastic bags with the average singlestream recycling bin actually causes more harm than good. Always use recycling bins specifically designed for plastic bags. When plastic bags are mixed with other recyclable items, they can become wet and dirty. This causes the plastic bags to become contaminated and it can contaminate all of the plastic recyclables, resulting in companies not being able to purchase the recyclables and being thrown away. To prevent this, always dispose of plastic bags at specifically designated collection spots, some being easily found at grocery stores. When plastic bags are properly disposed of, companies purchase and recycle them into durable items. To help spread awareness, on Monday, Nov. 5, PVCCs One Book Program held a Collegewide Recycle day. They encouraged students to bring plastic shopping bags to the main campus for proper disposal. Along with encouragement, they offered free reusable PVCC bags in exchange for the plastic bags students brought in. According to their website, Every bag counts because its one more piece of plastic that can be reduced, removed, reused, and recycled. Page 17 More than One Book: Discovering De-extinction Kaytlynne Gentry, staff writer The latest PVCC One Book, The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History, by Elizabeth Kolbert, a journalist and environmentalist, starts out focusing on amphibians and their introduction to a bacteria called Batrachochytrium dendrobatidisthe (BD) and how it was introduced/ spread by humans. In chapter two, the key theme is that earlier scientists did not accept the idea of extinction until the discovery of the mastodons molars. Throughout the book, each chapter has a different theme centered with the main idea, humans and a few natural causes are creating the sixth extinction. Chapter 13 covers the understanding of futurology, preserving animal DNA and piqued my curiosity of the efforts scientists are making to possibly bring back extinct animals. In one word De-extinction. Across the campus professors are working The Sixth Extinction into the course assignments, which led me to explore what books PVCCs library had about the topic of chapter 13. The PVCC library offers a variety of similar books such as How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-extinction, by Beth Shapiro, an American molecular biologist. How to Clone a Mammoth is not a how-to guide, but a review of all the processes necessary for de-extinction. Shapiro explains the process of de-extinction and how the cloned animals hoped to be resurrected will not be the same exact animals. Shapiro also acknowledges the fact that once an animal is extinct, it really is extinct forever. The next best thing is a man-made genetically modified version of the extinct animal. She also brings up the issues of where the animals will be in the wild, what can happen in those ecosystems, and what type of regulation these new animals will require. And if all else fails with de-extinction, there will be research and technologies learned that will help endangered species. Next, I found Resurrection Science: Conservation, De-extinction and the Precarious Future of Wild Things, by M. R. OConnor. OConnor covers the efforts taken today in animal conservation, the moral and ethical standpoints that scientists face with de-extinction. Also mentioned in The Sixth Extinction, OConnor highlights importance of cryobanks in the efforts to resurrect endangered and extinct species. She then leaves the readers with more questions than answers. Bring Back the King: The New Science of Deextinction, by Helen Pilcher, continues with the same concept. Pilcher jokingly suggests bringing back the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley. But the main focus is about the ability scientists have to bring extinct animals back to life. She highlights a process of cloning by using living animals DNA to resurrect their ancestors by altering the DNA with lost traits. She goes on to discuss many endangered and extinct animals and their probability of survival and the likelihood of bringing them back at all. Lastly, I read The Rise of the Necrofauna: The Science, Ethics, and Risks of De-Extinction, by Britt Wray. Wray has a B.S. in Biology and working towards a Ph.D. in Science Communication; she is currently a radio broadcaster and writer. Wray, unlike the other works mentioned, highlights the issues associated with de-extinction such as the legal, ethical, and environmental issues while also referencing the benefits that de-extinction will have on our ecosystems. She refers to other scientists and philosophers on their stands against de-extinction and to my surprise, they are against everything positive I have read so far. Resurrecting extinct animals such as the woolly mammoth and Tasmanian tiger would result in them living in captivity and used for research and our entertainment. Wray also raises the issue of last-chance tourism, the game of people making a profit from critically endangered species living in captivity and also raising the re-creation tourism profits that comes along with de-extinction, just like the films of Jurassic Park. To take a look further and open your mind to all sides of the de-extinction, check it out. The Rise Of the Necrofauna: The Science, Ethics, and Risks of De-Extinction is by far the most engaging book I have read from the theme of our PVCC One Book, and I highly suggest reading it! Check these books out in the zoology section at the Jessup Library. Resurrection Science QL 82. O26 2015, Bring Back the King QL 88. P54 2016, How to Clone Mammoth QL 88 .P549 2015 and The Rise of The Necrofauna QL 88 .W73 2017. Page 18 Crazy Rich Asians: PVCC Free Movie Friday Ryan Foresman, staff writer PVCC Free Movie Friday occurred Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. It featured the film Crazy Rich Asians. Students and community members filled the relatively large theatre in the Dickinson building. The movie night was hosted by PVCC s Student Art Club. Crazy Rich Asians is a romantic comedy directed by Jon M. Chu. The film explores the friction caused by partners who come from very different backgrounds. It follows a couple as they work through these issues throughout the film. According to the films description on PVCCs website, Crazy Rich Asians is the story of Chinese American economics professor Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), who travels to Singapore to attend a wedding with her boyfriend, Nick Young (Henry Golding). Rachel will be meeting Nick's family for the first time, and it turns out she's woefully unprepared. It is set and predominantly filmed in the South Pacific. The film had a set budget of $30 million. Its gross revenue to date was a $236 million according to Internet Movie Database. You can find the schedule for Free Movie Friday by going to PVCCs fine arts webpage. All their events are available to be attended by students. Many are free and some others offer free student vouchers. The next Free Movie Friday occurs Jan. 18, 2019; the movie has yet to be announced. Page 19 Dancing with the Stars in Harrisonburg Liberty Anderson, staff writer Picture this, team Loan glides down the dance floor with a classic I hate you, I love you dynamic in their Tango. Well executed, they show off the star, Corri Loan, and his new skills. The Tango is a classic way to shows both sides, the fights and romance involved in a working relationship. Ballroom dance is a social, formal, and rhythmic form of dance. Since it is often competitive, it has inspired hit TV shows like Dancing with the Stars. It has also inspired local events fundraisers like Dancing with the Stars of the Burg. Dancing with the Stars of the Burg was a fundraiser to support the Harrisonburg Rockingham Child Day Care Center. The final competition was held on Sunday, Sept. 11. This year the seven teams raised just over $100,000 combined for the Child Day Care Center. Throughout the past few months, teams have been raising money at various wineries and breweries, as well as preparing their dance routines. The teams competed for three trophies, the Mirror Ball, the Judges Award, and the Peoples Choice. The Mirror Ball is awarded to the team who raised the most money. The Judges Award goes to the team with the highest technical score, from the judges based on their routine. The Peoples Choice goes to the team with the most votes at the end of the night. This year for the first time ever one team got two trophies. Team Lokey won the Mirror Ball and the Judges Award. They scored a perfect 30 on their Cha Cha routine, and they raised the most money. Libbi Fitzgerald is the Pro on the team, and she has been on the winning team for six years. Team Loan won the Peoples choice for their Tango. I found out about Dancing with The Stars of the Burg because my sister Felicia Anderson has competed in it for the past two years. Harrisonburg has several ballroom dancing activities, clubs, and events. In comparison, Charlottesville has more. There is one ballroom dance studio in Harrisonburg, while there are three in Charlottesville. Smooth Sailing Ballroom is located on Hillsdale Dr., Terry Deans Blue Light Ballroom on Allied St., and Zabor Dance LLC on 2nd St. There is also a Swing club and various other opportunities to learn and compete in ballroom dance right down the road. Photo courtesy of Dan Emmerman Page 20 Photo courtesy of Mia Smith Review: In the Forest, She Grew Fangs Callan Shore, staff writer her classmates. The play is broken up into scenes of reality and the sinister worlds that exist inside The stage was dark and barren except for a Lucys head. few benches, and the actors were dressed in all When a new girl Jenny, played by Jenny black. But what appeared to be merely a simple Bottas, comes to town, Lucy becomes enamored production of an obscure play turned out to be an and begins to follow Jenny around. Each intense and insightful commentary on bullying. character, from Lucys nave grandmother to the Between Oct. 25 and Nov. 3, Gorilla Theatre star football player, has a disturbing secret, but Productions of Charlottesville put on 10 shows of eventually Lucys secrets become too much for In the Forest, She Grew Fangs, a play written by her to handle. Stephen Spotswood. Though there were few actors in the play, they The two-hour play is a horror-story version of brilliantly played multi-dimensional characters Little Red Riding and transformed the Hood based on realstage into a life problems. foreboding forest and troubled town. The However, in this story, the girl is not cast spans a variety of defenseless, and ages, but each actor there is a lot more was well cast for their blood. The main role. Despite the local character Lucy is level of this play, it played by Kendall was enthralling and Stewart, a radio frighteningly realistic. host for 106.1 The Those who want to Corner. Lucy is a attend or act in a teen in an isolated Gorilla Theatre Production, can visit town who is brutally bullied by their website. Photo courtesy of Mia Smith Page 21 Photography by Shawn Stevenson The Nook: A Cozy Place for Everyone Charles Parziale, staff writer After so many years, The Nook has become a nice place to stop and have a full breakfast or lunch. The Nook is at 415 E. Main street in Charlottesville on the downtown mall. Their specialty is breakfast served all day everyday throughout the week. Sitting down with friends, listening to songs from the 50s, having a plate filled with eggs cooked a little over easy and sausage links and a cup of coffee made a great breakfast, costing around $15. They have a lot on the menu including eggs, sausage, bacon, they even offer some crab cakes for breakfast. They have soups and salads too. If you are more interested in lunch, they offer hot and cold sandwiches as well. This gravy is just like the way my grandma makes it, said Alexis Davidson when she had eggs and biscuits and gravy for breakfast. While plenty of the staff are happy and chipper, towards the end of our breakfast our waitress started to rush us. She asked if people were done while they still had their forks in their hand. The Nook was rebought and refurbished in 2007 using their original mahogany booths when the store was first opened in the early 1930s. Filling the walls were old fashioned pictures and posters with a style of the 50s. The Nook is a great place to go for breakfast anytime or a delicious lunch while out with friends. With the costs for all of their food and drink options being reasonable, they make themselves a desirable place to stop by. Their hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. MondayThursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Page 22 Brazos Tacos Review: A Taste of Texas Callan Shore, staff writer Nestled in the IX Art Park is Brazos Tacos, an upscale fast food restaurant that will change your perception of tacos. Brazos is in a simple but modern space with beautiful wood and nature-inspired details. Light fixtures made out of grapevines and brightly colored chairs add to the enchanting atmosphere. Brazos is the perfect place to bring your entire family because there are miniature chairs, kid-friendly tacos, and dog bowls. The tacos are made quickly so they can be taken to go, or they can be enjoyed as a more formal meal. The breakfast tacos are a favorite snack for the drive to work. Brazos is also a popular spot for UVA students and gets a lot of traffic for its slightly hidden location. Kaili Brannan, a frequent customer, said, Brazos is my go-to when Im super busy and dont want to compromise taste for speed. Owner Peter Griesar is a fan of Texas, and it shows. Each taco is inspired by Austin cuisine, and the restaurants logo is the outline of Texas. He opened Brazos as a pop up shop in IX art park in 2014 with a plan of opening up a store in Seattle, but Charlottesville loved his tacos too much to let them go. He decided to open up a Photography by Callan Shore Photography by Callan Shore permanent location in IX, and though he still has dreams of opening in Seattle, he wants to expand in Charlottesville first. Brazos offers over 30 different types of tacos, and if you have trouble deciding what to order, the Taco Bot 2000 may help. The Taco Bot 2000 is a small machine, created by Griesar, that suggests orders based on your preferences. All eaters from picky to adventurous, carnivore to vegetarian can find something at Brazos. Brazos is a short walk from the Downtown Mall, and it is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Page 23 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Bryn Dotson Madison Weikle Online Editor Deadra Miller Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Liberty Anderson Jamie Blake David Brown Callan Shore Bryn Dotson Ryan Foresman Kaytlynne Gentry Aleena Haidari Shafat Khan Shawn Kochhar Deadra Miller Montana Mitchell Charles Parziale III Elizabeth Phan Veronica Reyes James Tucker Madison Weikle Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com November 2018 Piedmont Virginia Community College Democracy Comes to PVCC: Congressional Debate Callan Shore, staff writer On the night of Oct. 9, campaign signs of many colors lined College Dr. and led visitors through PVCCs campus to the Dickinson building. The signs were promoting the congressional candidates for Virginias 5th District. Leslie Cockburn, a Democrat, and Denver Riggleman, a Republican, came to PVCC for one of three debates they will participate in before Election Day on Nov. 6. Before beginning, the cameraman reminded the audience to stay quiet because the first half of the debate was aired live on CBS19 News. For the first hour, a panel complete with PVCC student Elena Cantwell, PVCC President Frank Friedman, and a local journalist asked questions to which the candidates had 90 seconds to reply. Undercover Casino Night Exclusive pages 12-13 The candidates were asked questions on topics ranging from climate change to the legalization of marijuana. When asked about community college, Cockburn said she wants community college to be free, whereas Riggleman said he thinks there should be better loan options for community college students. Later when asked about healthcare, Riggleman said constitutionally, it is not a basic human right. Cockburn said there should be Medicare for all. She said, I believe health care is a basic human right. Despite much disagreement, the debaters had a few ideas in common. Both agreed that global warming is real. Whether you're a Republican or a Democrat, [it is undeniable] that there are climate change issues based on human activities, Continued on page 4 In This Issue Leslie Cockburn and Denver Riggleman. Photo by Callan Shore. PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Science Resources -pgs. 10-11 Arts -pgs. 14-15 UVA Sports Profiles Classifieds -pgs. 6-8 -pg. 20 -pgs. 22-23 -pg. 24 DATES TO REMEMBER We the Voters Bryn Dotson, assistant editor Family Space Exploration* Nov. 3, 12-3 p.m. PVCC Town Hall Meeting* Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Nov. 6, 7-8 p.m., Main Building Auditorium One Mic Stand* Nov. 8, 7 p.m., Dickinson Building Empty Bowls Fundraiser Nov. 10, 5-7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Commons Latin Ballet of Virginia , NuYoRican ^ Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Veteran's Day Nov. 11, All Day PVCC Science Career Talk (NASA)* Nov. 12, 12-12:50 p.m., Main Building Auditorium One Book Event: Conserving Virginias Native Bees by Dr. Tai Roulston* Nov. 13, 12:30 1:45 p.m., Main Building Auditorium Health Sciences Job Fair/ Employer Q&A * Nov. 14, 10 a.m. Third Fridays Improv * Nov. 16, 6-7 p.m. Dickinson Building Free Movie Friday * Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 21-23, All Day, No Classes Voter turnout for 2016s presidential election was an average of 59.7 percent, according to The Daily Dot. This means that only about 180 million out of 323 million people in the United States voted that year. While that might not seem like a big difference, it demonstrates that a large quantity of people do not cast their ballots. In todays political climate, it is especially important for people to have their voices, thoughts, and beliefs recognized. Voting is a crucial element of democracy, yet an alarming number of people opt not to vote. By voting, people are able to influence governmental decisions and ensure that their thoughts and opinions are expressed in decisionmaking. It is imperative that we, the people, use our right and privilege to vote. In this years midterm elections, as well as other upcoming elections, make your voice heard by voting. For information on where to go to vote and general voting information, visit www.usa.gov/election-day. To promote voting among PVCC students and staff, PVCC political science and journalism students have created a non-partisan voter guide with information on this elections candidates and amendments on the ballot: www.piedmontforum.com/2018/10/24/2 018-pvcc-non-partisan-voter-guide/ or scan the QR code below. PVCC Theatre presents As You Like It ^ Nov. 29Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 2, 2:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Gallery Exhibition Opening Reception * Nov. 30, 5-7 p.m. Dickinson Building *Free Event ^Student Vouchers Available Page 2 Student Government Association News The PVCC SGA is having a fantastic year so far. In September 2018, they went on their annual team-building retreat to Boar's Head Resort in Charlottesville. There, they elected student representatives to college-wide committees as well as new executive members, who are as follows: Vice-President: Letiticia Davis Secretary: Jan Newcomb Director of Student Voice: Jacob Laxton Executive Senator: Rainah Gregory The SGA has plans to expand their activism and involvement this Fall. In November/ December, they will be holding a Children's Shoe Box Drive, as well as assisting the Salvation Army in an undecided project. To benefit the PVCC community, they will be hosting a Town Hall event where students will have an opportunity to voice their suggestions and concerns regarding their experience at PVCC. All students are encouraged to participate in this event. The Town Halls will be held Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Nov. 6, 7-8 p.m. in the Main Building Auditorium (M229). The SGA is always accepting applications for new members. Interested parties should head to the Student Government Association page on the PVCC website to apply. Please direct all questions, suggestions, and concerns should be directed towards Shawn Anderson (sanderson@pvcc.edu) or Kelly Dixon (kdixon@pvcc.edu). Photograph courtesy of Sophia Keniston Page 3 Debate, continued from page 1 said Riggleman. They also agreed that marijuana should be taken off the Federal Controlled Substance List. On a lighter note, Cockburn said her favorite vacation spot is Ireland, and Riggleman said his was Scotland. A group of PVCC students asked all of the questions for the second half of the debate. One student asked the candidates how they plan to decrease rape and sexual assault in the community. Cockburn responded that there needs to be funding for rape kits and organizations that help survivors. Riggleman responded that females need to be educated on how to avoid sexual assault and need to report sexual assault right away, to which some of the audience protested with loud groans. Riggleman later clarified that he believes young men should also be educated further. PVCC Free Speech Day, Hans Spencer Ryan Foresman, staff writer Hawes Spencer was hosted by PVCC for free speech day; his talk was titled Free Speech, Does it deserve to exist after Aug 12th? He is also the author of the book Summer of Hate written in the 4 months after the August 11-12 Unite the Right rally. He asked hard questions about free speech, who deserves it and when. Though not a Charlottesville resident himself, he said, Charlottesville will be forever associated with racial animosity. Spencer addressed social medias impact on free speech in a way that attempted to be a middle ground between the right and left. He focused on how the right and left are given platforms on social media, and with that, the subsequent ban of hate groups on the right. This caused questions from students as to the allowances of left wing hate groups that are still given a platform. This was a question that students asked many times during the talk, and Spencer pointed out that there is no law or direct definition of hate speech. Spencer responded by giving an example from the past, the porn wars of the 1970s was an argument based around an undefinable construct that varied based on context; free speech, he said, is much the same. The student body in attendance was incredibly diverse in race, political views, and creed. They posed tough questions to Spencer. Many of these questions were two or three fired off rapid fire at the speaker. Spencer did his best to be quick on his feet and give answers the students looked for. Page 4 Ethyle Giuseppe, Friend of the Community Liberty Anderson, staff writer Ethyle Giuseppe was born 100 years ago at the bottom of the mountain on South River road in Stanardsville, on Sept. 27, 1918. She has been a generous contributor to her community and PVCC, providing scholarship money and meeting the needs of her community to the best of her ability. One day she needed a box to carry books from the library and was directed to the upper level of the Greene County Library. After seeing how the space was unfinished and wasted, she called the next day to see what she could do. Are you sober? was the reaction she received when she had called the county to fund the development of what is now the Eugene Giuseppe Center in Stanardsville, Virginia. She responded, I have never had a drink in my life. Ethyle prides herself on never having alcohol, cigarettes, or vaccines. She says everything that she has given to this county has been for the children of the community. She recognizes that parents cannot fund these sort of things because they must use the money to raise the children. With no children of her own, she has the capability to give what others cannot. She has donated to the William Monroe High School on several different occasions for things like a scoreboard in the gym and a greenhouse for agricultural education. She said these things are important to her because her husband was an educator and high school coach and she was a farmer as a young girl. She has also donated to the historical society and Greene county park, providing a basketball court and bathrooms. She said, Got to do this for the children. This is her constant motivation. She wants to be remembered for giving to the people, the county, the school, but most importantly the children. Ethyle has given over two million dollars to the county over the years. For her birthday, she received a call from PVCC, they asked if they could throw a party for her. They wanted to have an entrance fee. She said, not a penny. She would not have come if there was a charge to the guests. She donated more money that became scholarships at PVCC instead of charging people to come to her birthday party. She went to a total of three different birthday buffets: at her church, the historical society, and PVCC. At the event she told stories of her childhood, telling us about how as a child she would always have apple butter with her bread and biscuits. One day as a small child her mother had left her outside to lay in the sun. Her mother watched from the window in terror as she saw a large bear come and lick her babys face, after the apple butter. Frozen in fear for her child, she just prayed as the bear finished cleaning her face and walked back up the mountain. After Ethyle graduated high school, she had no way to go to college. When her uncle died while in the military her mother received a few hundred dollars. $100 was all it took to send Ethyle to college. She pursued architecture as a career until she was offered a job at UVA. When she worked for the UVA accounting department, she roomed with a woman named Gene. Genes cousin Eugene visited and talked with Ethyle all day. From then on, he began to visit more and more often. He was a football coach and school principal in Greene county. Most nights he would join Ethyle for supper. They wanted to marry, but with his football schedule, he did not have any free Saturdays. Eventually, he had one free Saturday, and so they were married. They were married for many years, and after he had retired they began to Cruise otherwise known as travelling. They went around the world twice together. She named the PVCC center in Greene after him because Giuseppe was too short and she wanted to honor his memory, not her own. Ethyle told me about how she has always loved rabbits; she would tell all of the farmers in the county to bring her rabbits if they ran over a nest with their tractors. Ethyle knew a lot about rabbits and how once they had been out of the nest the mother would abandon them. She told me she must have raised 50 rabbits from infancy to adulthood. Even now, she still has many rabbits that she raised living on the property. They were tame to the point of picking them up off the ground whenever she saw them. Ethyle is a strong believer in divine interventions and says she has not missed a Sunday in 60 years. She has no plan for the coming year: If I live another day Im happy, Im thankful. Page 5 Deliberative Dialogue Dives into Change Madison Weikle, assistant editor On Oct. 10, PVCC held the Climate Change Deliberative Dialogue. The conversation took place in the North Mall Meeting Room at 12 p.m.. Before the presentation began, every seat had been filled with students and faculty varying in age. Some volunteers had to bring in more chairs to accommodate the crowd. Professor of English and Writing Center Coordinator Jennifer Koster started off the event by setting a few ground rules and misconceptions about climate change. We search for strengths in another position, our goal here is to talk with other people who might have different positions, said Koster, Not one way is right. After introductions, Koster showed a brief video about the unpredictability of climate change. The video brought up that carbon dioxide is the reason for climate change and climate change is a national security concern. It also posed the questions what are we willing to do about climate change and what are we willing to risk? The crowd split up into four tables, each led by a group leader who encouraged and directed the conversation. Each group leader handed out a small packet with charts and ideas for dealing with climate change. It was the job of the group to weigh each option carefully and identify which option, or combination of options, they believed was best. While the packet provided a guide for discussion, many conversations ended up focusing less on the paperwork and more on collaborative thinking. This is more than just an environmental thing; its a social issue, said Ellen Burnett, student at PVCC, So many of these solutions start out seeming like good ideas, but then you look at how they affect lower income people or workers of large companies that contribute to carbon emissions, and it just doesnt seem plausible. Students were careful not to talk over each other and gave everyone a chance to speak. In the end, many groups developed their own ideas for dealing with climate change. PVCC student Torri McDaniel said, I like the idea of being innovative and creating our own solutions. Photography by Madison Weikle Page 6 Speaker Explores Geology in Virginia Jamie Blake, staff writer David Spears has been a geologist in the state of Virginia since 2009, and on Oct. 17 he came to PVCC to share his wealth of knowledge on the subject. Spears talked about how the government plays a crucial role in what happens after landslides, or any natural disaster, occur. He bounced between different landslides that have occurred in the United States to give the audience more information on how catastrophic these disasters can be. He showed us a variety of pictures in his slideshow that showed that the results of these disasters are devastating. He then moved on to what role the government plays in the aftermath of these disasters and what can be done to try and lessen effects. There are several problems that need to be addressed first, but the biggest one he emphasized was that the government does not truly believe in the science behind these natural disasters. Spears said this is the biggest problem because if the government does not believe in the science behind natural disasters, then they are less likely to do something to help. Spears was a great speaker on these matters and seems to care a lot about how they will affects the future of our country. Racing Extinction at PVCC Deadra Miller, online editor On Oct. 15, student activist Kibiriti Majuto gave a speech at the One Book event on Racing Extinction: Youth Movement for Climate Justice. Majuto is not just a student but an activist for Virginia-based organizations such as Virginia Student Environmental Coalition and others. Majuto has been in touch with different teenagers across the United States in regards to the pipeline projects and how they affect communities. Majuto mentioned how he supports and looks for more supporters to help with the Youth vs. Government case in Portland, Oregon on Oct. 29. Our Childrens Trust is involved, which is a group of 21 young Americans who fight their state or commonwealth about diverting resources or forcing the pipeline into their respective areas. After the talk, the situation with the case has changed. Majuto said, As of now, less than a week before the trial is scheduled to start in Federal District Court in Eugene, the Department of Justice asked the United States Supreme Court to circumvent the ordinary procedures of federal litigation and stop the constitutional case Juliana v. United States which is normally known as Youth V. Gov. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts granted a temporary stay and halted discovery until Wednesday to allow the plaintiffs to respond. I really do not know if the case will Student Activist Kibiriti Majuto shares his passion for activism. Photography by Deadra Miller continue. Majuto traveled to Washington D.C. to be a voice against building the pipeline in the United States and plans on attending next years rally. Majuto spoke about the clubs at PVCC that students can be a part of to help with saving the earth. One of these clubs is the Horticulture Club that David Lerman, director of student success and retention, is the advisor for. In promoting PVCC conservation clubs Majuto stated, There is grace in working with our hands. The Earth Guardians of PVCC, advised by Kristy Simpkins, she and Lerman work together to make events like Racing Extinction and Earth Day happen. If you are interested in joining any of these organizations, contact Lerman and Simpkins in the Student Success Office or Majuto at kibiriti@thisiszerohour.org. Page 7 Photography by Jessica Adkins Astronomer Reveals Her Path Through the Stars Jessica Adkins, staff writer On Tuesday, Oct. 22, Whitney Richardson gave an intriguing presentation on what it is like to be a telescope operator. Walking into room 210 in the Keats Science Building, one could see the energetic yet nervous blue-haired astronomer. On the opening slide of her presentation, she had a statement that said, Resume is 3 pages long. When asked if her resume was actually three pages long, she said, No, it is longer. The three pages consist of only the jobs I have done. Richardson grew up in Eastern Kentucky with five siblings. She had several jobs before she decided she wanted to work on telescopes. She worked at two movie theaters, was a tour guide for Lost River Cave, worked customer service at Shutterbug Photography studio, and was an electrical dispatcher for Bowling Green Municipal Utilities. While in high school, she was part of the Goldstone Apple Valley Radio Telescope Program, and it was while participating in that program that she decided she wanted to help fix telescopes. After high school, Richardson went to Western Kentucky University and was the first student to get an astronomy minor at WKU, she said. While working with telescopes, she also discovered a binary star system. Richardson has worked at many observatories. She worked as a telescope technician at Bell Observatory and had to get the telescope up and running after a lightning strike hit it. She worked on the one meter telescope at Fan Mountain for five years and was able to do so with soft grant money. While working at the Fan Mountain Telescope, she was able to collect data for the SIM satellite project which was canceled. After that, she worked at Mt. Graham Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope in New Mexico, which sizes at 1.8 meters. To keep the ground vibrations from messing up the readings, the telescope building actually floats on a pool of oil, according to Richardson. Richardson currently works as a fiscal technician for University of Virginia. Richardson was brought in by the Science Club to partake in the monthly Science Career Talk series that they host. The next talk will be Nov. 12. Page 8 Networking Event at PVCC Liberty Anderson, staff writer On Thursday, Oct. 18, PVCC held a career networking event. According to Career Services Manager Andre Luck, the goal is to connect students with employers and job opportunities. It is a great start to a professional life, learning new skills to help get a job in the future. This was the second time PVCC has held a career networking event. This time it was twice the size as it was in the Spring, according to Luck, becoming more successful and helping more students to improve their networking skills. We had 11 different employers visit, including: UVA Medical, Hantzmon Wiebel Accounting Firm, Hospice of the Piedmont, Goodwin William Staffing, PMA USA, Virginia Lube, Millennium Security, Mutual of Omaha, Murray Enterprises, JABA-Jefferson Area Board for Aging, and Service Corporation International. PVCC provided each employer with handouts for interview skills and how to improve a resume. These handouts were shared with the students looking to improve in that area. Most of these employers were looking to hire new employees. This event has been geared towards and was originally created for the business students, although everyone was welcome to come. Those who came brought their resume and had the equivalent of a job interview. Gaining practical interview experience in a learning environment. Before the event, students could set up an appointment with the employers they wished to meet with. If they did not sign up, they could still come, but they might have to wait before they could meet with anyone. When attendees met with someone, it was typically one on one or two on one. The employers were all more than happy to answer questions. Throughout the room, you could observe the professional boundaries between employers and students, shaking hands and not interrupting one another. While the room filled with conversation, it was still quiet. No one overpowered the room; it allowed everyone to have a quality conversation. Photography by Liberty Anderson Page 9 The Classroom to the Community Callan Shore, staff writer The clock ticks on and the students wonder how these lessons will ever be used in real life. Sitting in a classroom all day long may not be the most productive learning environment for every student. At PVCC, there are opportunities for experiential learning and real-world experience that can help break up the day. These opportunities are found through the service learning program, a resource for students to find volunteer opportunities in Charlottesville. Todd Platts, PVCCs service learning coordinator, said, Part of a liberal arts education is for students to become proactive members of their communities. Service learning facilitates this by putting students in contact with local organizations that serve the needs of the community. PVCC has formed strong connections with local organizations and makes finding volunteer opportunities simple for students. These organizations include the Boys and Girls Club, Buford Middle School, and the Adult Learning Center. There are service learning options that cater to many different interests. The service learning newsletter provides a detailed guide with service learning opportunities that correspond to each major. The newsletter conveys to art majors that they may improve in their field by teaching art, helping to promote local artists, and even contributing to art museums. Teachers at PVCC can introduce service learning into their curriculum or include it as extra credit, demonstrating how volunteer work is strongly encouraged at PVCC. There are even students who continue their volunteer position after the class obligation has ended. Connie Jorgensen, assistant professor of political science, and Kit Decker, professor of Spanish, are two teachers who have made an effort to bring service learning into their classes. The overall goals for the PVCC service learning program are to give students insight into new and different communities, to gain job skills, and to become competent at solving problems. More immediate goals for this year include increasing funding, student interest, and teacher involvement. Interested students can find links and contact information at the PVCC website under Service Learning. How to Get a Free Computer at PVCC Jessica Adkins, staff writer There is one program at PVCC that can cater to almost every student in need. That is the G.O.A.L program. The G.O.A.L program, based out of the Betty Sue Jessup Library, serves students by giving them a personal laptop to use each semester. When the program first started, it only had 30 computers to give out, and each semester the 30 computers went quickly. It was not until the 2018 school year that the program got 30 more laptops, bumping their total up to 60. So far this semester, they have issued 55 of the 60 laptops to students in need. While the program sounds amazing, there are specific qualifications that students must meet. A student must have completed their FAFSA and have an EFC of $3,000 or less. Each student that qualifies financially must be enrolled in six credits, and at least one class must be on campus. Every student who qualifies must apply each semester. Any new student applying to the program might have to wait because priority goes to students who were previously enrolled in the program. After filling requests from previous students, the library will distribute the remaining laptops to other qualifying students on a firstcome, first-served basis, according to the library website. All applications must be printed out and turned in in-person even if you completed an online version. For more information, visit PVCCs library website (https://www.pvcc.edu/student-services/ library/goal-program) or ask one of the resource librarians in person at the library. Page 10 Academic Coaching in a Nutshell Liberty Anderson, staff writer Academic coaching is giving students the skills that they need to succeed in college. Unlike tutoring, it is not focused on a single subject. Academic coaching focuses on the general skills students need to get through college and life, such as time management, note taking, priority management, and exam preparation. This free service is provided in the Writing Center at PVCC. With academic coaching, students meet with their coach once a week so they can get to know each other and individual struggles to best help the individual. Having a coach is a way to know the staff and have someone else on your side. Meeting each week helps to make it about personal struggles and goals. Academic coaching helps to build confidence. It gives students someone who will hold them accountable. Academic coaching is helpful because not only does it provide methods to reach your goals, these methods are constantly adjusted to be tailored to the students needs, according to Adjunct Instructor and Academic Coach Ruth Yoder. Students are more likely to reach their goals if they are constantly changing their approach to find the most effective way for them as an individual. Each coach knows what their students are working towards and what they have already tried, so that they can help them find the best way. The students have someone to listen and understand them and help them through their struggles. The student has their coach, to talk things through, to suggest solutions, and to help find better methods. The coaching will help students to improve if they strive to. The student will not achieve their goal unless they put in the effort to succeed. Students meet with their coaches in the Writing Center. You can stop by the Writing Center between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, or between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Fridays. You can also call 434-961-5499 to set up your first coaching session. Testing center essential to students success Charles Parziale III, staff writer The Testing Center, in the main building room M607, gives placement tests, distance-learning tests, make-up tests, and academic tests. The Testing Center also has a new policy that requires students to have a form of identification to present to the staff in order to take an exam. So make sure to brign a student ID or your driver's license when you go in for testing. The testing center is a secure environment with limited electronics, no phones or apple watches. Computers are monitored, and the center also has security cameras to ensure that students do not cheat. The testing center has always been in the same location, according to Proctor Amy Floyd. She has been working in the testing center for about 11 years. She and the rest of her coworkers are all former PVCC students. Floyd said that the staff in the testing center prioritize making the area as least stressful as possible. Walking into the testing center, all of the staff are casual and relaxed. Walking into the room and being greeted with a smile a simple question if you need any help creates a friendly environment. We try to make a very relaxed and comfortable environment, said Testing Specialist Rob McHenry. Some students may be intimidated by the staff or the testing center in general. This should not be the case. Students can ask for help finding the right things to study or direction to another tutoring program that PVCC offers. It is staffed Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10a.m. to 2p.m. You can contact them at 434-961-5320 or by email at testing@pvcc.edu. Page 11 SGA Casino Night: Shaken, Not Stirred Deadra Miller, online editor On the Friday before Halloween, SGA hosts PVCCs annual Casino Night. This years theme was Shaken Not Stirred, James Bond movies. Those who came to casino night dressed as James Bond characters received extra play money to use for gambling. Blackjack, roulette, and poker were the most popular games played. There were two craps tables. SGA President Sophia Keniston, SGA members, and Shawn Anderson coordinator of student engagement and student life, set up and ran the event. A costume contest was also held, where three members of PVCCs Anime Club won the first, second, and third. There was a wide array of costumes some dressed in 80s apparel and others as anime characters. Some professors, like Assistant Professor of Sociology Todd Platts, were dealers at tables along with SGA student volunteers. An oxygen bar, which had flavored oxygen you could try, was available for those who answered some trivia questions. Page 12 Photography by Deadra Miller Page 13 PVCC Panthers Prance in Dance Club Callan Shore, staff writer Whirling and jumping across stage, the members of PVCCs dance club spend every Wednesday afternoon choreographing and practicing new dances. The dance club is held in the auditorium of the Dickinson building and is run by skilled PVCC students. The club is built around acceptance and collaboration, so dance enthusiasts of all levels are welcome. The only requirement to join is to currently be enrolled at PVCC. Sofia Smith, one of the clubs leaders, said, I love this dance club because there is a lot of diversity and there are people of all different skill levels. Also, everyone is always eager to learn and improve. The dance club is based on experiential learning, so everyone gets a chance to learn how to dance, choreograph, and be a leader. Club member Kaili Brannan said, As a person who dances seriously outside of PVCC, I love this club because it gives me a chance to be creative and choreograph my own dances. Part of this experiential learning process are the various opportunities the club offers to its members throughout the year. These opportunities include masterclasses and showcases in which members show off the dances they helped to create. The club typically meets Wednesdays from 12-1 p.m., and they will hold a fall showcase on Nov. 6, 2018. Those who are interested in joining the club can email club leader Reina at rdg2436@email.vccs.edu. PVCC will also host several events over the next year with guest dancers such as the Latin Ballet of Virginia and the Richmond Ballet. Two dance club members pitching their new dance. Photography by Callan Shore Page 14 Third Fridays Improvisation Photograph courtesy of PVCC Marketing and Media Relations. Shawn Kochhar, staff writer I visited the Third Fridays Improv workshop in the V. Earl Dickinson Theater at PVCC on Oct. 19 to observe and take notes. Instead, I found myself thrust into an eye-opening learning experience. We did warm-ups and exercises that keep your mind sharp and make you think on your feet. Although the event focuses on improvisation in the theater, the lessons learned hold true to all aspects of life. Improvisation at its core is doing something unpracticed and unplanned. In our daily life, whether we are aware of it or not, we improvise. A conversation, the ways we move our body, any experimentation in our daily lives are all done spontaneously. A conversation is improvisation, said Brad Stoller, assistant professor of theatre arts, after our first exercise of having a simple chat at the beginning of the class. Being with feelings of nervousness and doing what we do consciously is a game, he added. The movements and sounds we make are all things we do simultaneously without thinking. This is improvisation, and on stage we can learn the freedom to separate and recombine them. The principles and exercises of improvisation are not only helpful to those who want to perform theater, but also for all people who want to learn about themselves and how our brains work. One of the main takeaways from this lesson, for me, is how we make decisions depending on what we think the outcome will be. On stage you are encouraged to make mistakes, to say something when you can think of nothing, to stop worrying so much about possible negative outcomes and just do. This is a great life lesson for those of us who may have trouble in our daily lives with speaking out or being overly timid about life decisions. To take part in this inspiring experience and learn about improvisation, contact Brad Stoller at 434-961-5246 or email bstoller@pvcc.edu. The next class takes place on Nov. 16. Page 15 Assistant Professor of Mathematics Irina Timchenko. Photography by Aleena Haidari Exploring World Cultures Locally Aleena Haidari, staff writer Cultural Day at PVCC is a celebration of diversity that is organized by the International Club. This event is held every year in the Fall semester to provide an opportunity for students to share their cultures with others. Daniela Carvalho, the president of the International Club, said, This event is held every year to present our cultures and traditions that are usually not talked about. Its important to showcase first-hand knowledge of our cultures to Photography by Aleena Haidari others. This educational yet fun event is comprised of many activities such as presentations, food, and music. Students go to a presentation while enjoying foods from those countries. This interaction leaves many interested in exploring interesting things they learned from the presentation. For instance, I went to the table for Mexico that had cookies dipped in Cajeta, a thickened caramel. I was awed by their delicious food. This instance is similar to all cultures present in the Cultural Day. As Barry Lopez, an American author and essayist once said, Diversity is not a characteristic of life, it is a condition that is necessary for life, like air and water. Diversity is not only differences in our distinct appearances, cultures, and religions but also the core values of human race to respect, value, and understand each others differences. Due to the advanced technologies and globalization, diversity has become even more prevalent in todays society. Therefore, interaction and communication with each other are the essential tools to help us maintain the core values of diversity: respect, value, and understanding. Page 16 PVCC Annual Wheelchair Basketball SGA President Sophia Keniston leads the charge for the ball. Photography by Deadra Miller Deadra Miller, online editor On Wednesday Oct. 17, the Charlottesville Cardinals came to PVCC to play a pick up game of basketball. The Cardinals are a wheelchair basketball team that travel all over the United States playing pick up and competitive games. The Cardinals have been ranked in the Sweet Sixteen of the NWBA for the past 13 years, finishing #16 in the nation in the 2015-16 season, according to their website. Many PVCC students played along with four players from the team. The team Captain Tom Vandever #44, coordinated with Susan Hannifan, PVCCs disability services counselor, to schedule the game. Vandever brought three more players with him to play against the students and staff that joined in. Their names and numbers are #32 Gino Wilson, #20 Eddie Wimbish, and #55 Brandon Rush. Everyone played exceptionally well. Kenyatta Folley (left) blocks Ashwin Pitt (right). Photography by Deadra Miller Page 17 Security Careers for the 21 century Ryan Foresman, staff writer Richard Seweryniak described PVCC CyberSecurity day, The event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. included expert speakers from the Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Governor, WillowTree, Bluestone Analytics, CounterFlow AI, Expel IO, transfer schools ODU and UVA, as well as student portfolio presentations. PVCC currently offers both an associates degree in Information Systems Technology with a specialization in Cybersecurity, requiring 66 credit hours and approximately four semesters to complete as well as a Career Studies Certificate in Cybersecurity, requiring 27 credit hours and approximately two semesters to complete. CyberSecurity day focused on the multiple things PVCC has to offer in terms of technology and its resources. It included speakers from Homeland Security, Willow Tree Apps, and PVCCs IT department. The first speakers were members of Homeland Security, and they presented an array of jobs that they offer in tech fields, everything from anti-terrorism work to internal IT work. They encourage students to use websites such as www.usajobs.gov to access government technology jobs. Next, there was a presentation on Old Photography by Dominion online, a Ryan Foresman place where PVCC graduates can further their education. One of the most interesting topics presented by ODU was the fact that online students can graduate on Old Dominions campus. PVCCs IT department also spoke. The topics discussed ranged from how to keep your personal information safe to the resources and jobs in IT. The resources they offer are useful to students whether it is working on a crashed computer or helping to recover lost documents. Willow Tree Apps, Bluestone Analytics, Counterflow AI, Crutchfield, and the Albemarle County Police Department, all spoke on career fields in cyber security. Learn Self Defense with Nicole Winker Charles Parziale III, staff writer Self defense is important in today's world. That's why on Nov. 8, Thursday 4-6:30 p.m. Nicole Winkler will be offering a self-defense class in the North Mall Meeting Room at PVCC. The instructor will be Nicole Winkler, program director and associate professor of radiology at PVCC. She has a black belt in Okinawan Kempo, which, like any other form of Karate, teaches a variety of defense techniques. In Okinawan Kempo, all techniques, blocks, hitting and joint locks derive from Kata and technical foundations. This system is for everyone regardless of strength, weight, size or age. These will be a hands-on option as well. Along with defense tactics, Winkler will offer some lessons in effective techniques in awareness to help attendees better understand certain areas and reduce risks of injury. This can help them understand certain surroundings in areas they may be unfamiliar with in cities and urban environments. As well as numerous other tips for awareness for travelling at night. It will also teach helpful body techniques on how to present yourself as more confident and understand others body language. One of the most helpful things a self-defense class can offer is self-confidence. To help you feel confident that you can defend yourself in a situation, as well as teaching you how to size up a situation and help you decide what you should or shouldnt do. A self-defense class can teach you ways to surprise your attacker and catch them off guard. The Radiology club and the HOPE club will be offering this event to anyone that is interested. There is a $20 pre-registration fee that can be made in the main office of the Keats Building or a $25 walk-in fee the day of the event. Page 18 PVCC Students Walk to End Alzheimers Deadra Miller, online editor supports families that have suffered loved ones living with dementia, caregivers to Alzheimers and dementia patients and loved ones lost to these horrible diseases. There are many ways to reach out and receive help for these diseases and the way to find help or donate is through www.alz.org. According to the website, 16.1 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimers or other dementias. Also Alzheimers is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. Students and adults from around the Charlottesville area walked 1.7 miles around IX Art Park in downtown Charlottesville on Oct. 20. PVCCs President Frank Friedman and his wife Sue Friedman coordinated and walked for this years event. Charlottesville Alzheimer's Association President and CEO Sue Friedman is the director for the Charlottesville area walk to end Alzheimers, and she with a team of other individuals put this walk together to help support the cause. The goal was to donate over $260,000 this year, and this walk alone raised $244,686.82. Over the years, millions of dollars have been donated to end Alzheimers. The Walk to End Alzheimers is one of the 600 walks happening across the United States this year. This disease is not recognized in individuals very easily like other diseases are and when it is finally recognized the outpour of support surpasses other causes. The Alzheimers Association also Frank Friedman and Deadra Miller after the Walk to end Alzheimers. Photography by Deadra Miller Team Aseracare posing for Charlottesville Walk to End Alzheimers. Photography by Deadra Miller Page 19 Cavaliers Wash Out the Hurricanes James Tucker, staff writer It took the University of Miami Hurricanes 57 minutes of hard-fought football to finally cross the goal line. A short run in by Malik Rosier brought a faint cheer from the Miami crowd that had amassed. There was no other joy to be had for the green and orange. The University of Virginias defense was stifling. After an uneventful first quarter the place was electrified by the high-flying antics of Juan Thornhill a safety on the Cavaliers. A wild interception that was returned sixty-two yards of pure, unabridged rumbling. Even the games officials could not escape this madness as one was nearly taken out by the unruly crew. This would set up a short touchdown run by Jordan Ellis putting the Wahoos up 10-0. The Hurricanes would not go quietly, however, putting up two quick back to back field goals. Hushing the forty-two thousand strong who had come to support the blue and orange. Halftime was not upon them yet though, so the Cavaliers fought their way back, scoring a field goal which gave them the momentum entering the half. As the teams took the field once again, it appeared as the momentum had shifted once again as the Hurricanes stormed down the field. This was all for not as the manic marauders would not be defeated. A turnover on downs at the twenty-yard line caused an uproar and once again the Cavaliers pushed the envelope. The Cavalier fans could be seen dancing during the stoppages, an unabashed display to ignite the crowd who braved the cold to cheer them on. Bryce Perkins, the quarterback of Virginia led them the rest of the way making wild runs to slowly run down the clock. Another interception by Juan Thornhill and it seemed as though the game was decided. The Hurricanes mounted one last assault scoring their only touchdown of the game. A questionable decision by the coaching staff to onside kick backfired on the Hurricanes and a wily returner took the ball deep into Miami territory. All three of Miamis timeouts were spent to stop the clock as they held Virginia, but a pair of costly personal fouls one being a late cheap shot caused the clock to run out on their hopes of a comeback. Chaos ensued as the faithful stormed the field to join their heroes who delivered them to victory. The final score was 16-13, bringing the Cavaliers record to four wins and two losses. It is looking like a wild season and, who knows, maybe the Cavalier fans will even see a bowl game at the end of the season. Marching band and the crowd storm the field after UVA defeated Miami. Photography by James Tucker Page 20 Review: A Friday Evening at Meriwether Jamie Blake, staff writer The end of week can mean many things for people. They either want to relax and stay home or enjoy a night out in one of the many places Charlottesville has to offer. Most people will be looking to head to their favorite winery or brewery and Charlottesville has captivated the local scene over the last 20+ years that there are so many to choose from. There is one place in particular that just opened a few months ago that offers you both wine and beer, plus a live show of local artists on the weekends. A local married couple opened Meriwether Springs, named after the famous Meriwether Lewis, five years ago only making wine and hosting events. The wine was such a huge success they were looking for other ventures. Then earlier this year, they transformed the winery into a brewery with a tasting room and a beer garden. It is the perfect Friday night location for anyone who lives in Charlottesville or who is just passing through. On Oct. 19, I visited the brewery and got to hear the Crozet Jam Band and their funky tunes. It was the ideal fall night, only slightly chilly with the warmth of a fire just a few feet from me. The twinkly lights that hang down from the tent make the atmosphere more relaxed and inviting, with the tunes from the band in the background. The Crozet Jam Band have been a local band playing all around Charlottesville and surrounding areas for two years. Their performance was one I will not forget because they encourage the audience to participate in their music and they have a binder with 170+ songs that you can choose from for them to play. The atmosphere of the music and the location of Meriwether will make you want to come back. Meriwether Springs is located in Ivy, Virginia and is open on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 12-8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 1210 p.m. Review: Monday Night Jam at The Local Montana Mitchell, staff writer Looking for your next Monday night adventure? Look no further because The Locals Monday Night Jam night has you covered. Walking into The Local on Monday nights is like a warm comforting hug with friendly faces and warm-toned lights. We live local and are also locally owned, according to The Locals website. On Monday nights, The Local has a Jam Night with an open mic for local talent that runs from 9-11 p.m. The Local offers a bar full of high -end wines and liquor, live music, and a warm supportive crowd. My friends and I had the fortune of discovering this lovely place last Monday night. We loved it so much that we returned this Monday, Oct. 23. Attracting young and old adults, The Local has a diverse crowd that anyone can connect with. From UVA students, to local members of the community, the community of Charlottesville comes together to support local artists, while also supporting the business hosting it. Everyone is welcoming and loving, which makes Charlottesvilles saying Virginia is For Lovers feel true. A woman who had a table next to us, who we had never met before, gave us insight on all of the local performers, and was just a delightful person to talk to. Just like her, almost everyone who attends The Local on Monday nights has a kind charisma to them. The event Jam Night is only held on the first floor, as The Local has two and does not have a stage for open-mic performers, but instead a big corner that they perform in. The Local on Monday nights is packed, and has very little seating. Even though you may have to stand the entire time, it is an experience that is worth it. Jam Night is a laid back event that really kicks off the week. The Local is located off of the Downtown mall at 824 Hinton Ave and is also open for dinner at 5 p.m. seven days a week. Page 21 Making Equality Fashionable in CVILLE Callan Shore, staff writer Charlottesville is a hub of activists and change-makers, but few have devoted their entire lives to human rights. Gwen Cassady, a Charlottesville resident and UVA alumna, has done just that. Cassadys eyes were first opened to injustice when she traveled the world in and after college. She said, Ive been very blessed to see a great deal on our planet and the most important takeaway was that there is a level of human suffering that the more privileged are not aware of. Cassady grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana, but came to Charlottesville to attend UVA for her undergrad years. She originally wanted to work on Wall Street, but after graduating, she decided that she wanted to travel the world and then get a masters degree in education instead. After traveling and Grad school at UVA, Cassady has settled in Charlottesville and in the last year started a nonprofit called Managing Love. One of the programs of Managing Love is a small business called the Super Sewing Shop which employs and supports refugee women. The idea for the shop first came to Cassady when she heard a local woman named Deb Jackson was collecting fabric and sewing machines and distributing them to refugee women. The two women met up and eventually came up with the idea of starting a refugee run clothing store. Cassady said she knew this shop was needed because refugee women in Charlottesville often do not get paid what they deserve. With Jacksons connections in the refugee community and Cassadys collection of unused clothes, they had a perfect plan. Cassady explained that helping the environment is an important issue to her, so she wanted to be environmentally conscious with the store. She decided that because 9 to 14 trillion tons of textile waste is generated each year in the US, the items for sale would simply be thrifted or upcycled versions of the clothes she already had. Upcycling clothing consists of altering and adding details to already-made clothing items. Cassady said, I was expecting three refugee women one morning in April, but while finishing a meeting, I saw multiple cars pulling up, and 25 or 30 refugees poured out. By August, Cassady opened the first pop-up of the Super Sewing Shop in Stonefield Shopping Center, four months after the idea originated. The future of the Super Sewing Shop will be online at EcoChic.Boutique, and once the shop is more profitable Cassady will pass it off to the refugee women who helped build it. Despite the extensive labor it took to create the Super Sewing Shop, Cassady is not slowing down. Her current endeavor is a documentary about Charlottesvilles homeless population. She has a special interest in this subject because she has been homeless four times in her life. Cassady explained, As a social entrepreneur, I always look at societal injustices and how I, as a single individual, can make this world a better place. Photography by Callan Shore Page 22 One of PVCCs Vice Presidents Montana Mitchell, staff writer Harry Stillerman is the vice president of institutional advancement and development for PVCC. He manages college fundraising, student scholarships, the PVCC Alumni association, as well as multiple departments on campus. With over 10 years of experience with fundraisers in community colleges, Stillerman brings a knowledgeable and friendly personality to PVCC. Stillerman lived the majority of his life in North Carolina before attending the University of Richmond for his bachelors degree. Once he graduated, he returned to his home state to pursue a career. While in North Carolina, Harry worked as the foundation director at GTCC, as well as the college relations director at Mitchell Community College. When he was given the opportunity to be the vice president of institutional advancement and development at PVCC, Stillerman, his wife, and his two children moved to Charlottesville. I really enjoy living here, Stillerman said, I really particularly enjoy Charlottesville and Albemarle county. I really like working at PVCC. Im struggling to feel like a true Virginian, but I like living here. I lived in North Carolina for 40 years, but were really happy here and my kids are thriving. We havent regretted our decision to move here, and I feel like were in a really good spot. We feel like this is home. Silvia Dowell, PVCCs Jane of all Trades Shawn Kochhar, staff writer When students want to keep in contact with PVCC after graduating or receive a scholarship, Silvia Dowell is the one to facilitate it. A renaissance woman, Dowell does it all. Dowell is the scholarship and alumni association coordinator at PVCC. She runs the scholarship program for the PVCC Educational Foundation which involves talking to prospective donors, stewarding donors and overseeing the selection process for the scholarships that get awarded. For instance, she is currently coordinating the annual Thanks-4-Giving scholarship dinner. She also stays in contact with alumni and keeps them engaged with PVCC. Dowell was born and raised in Crozet. She aspired to be a coach and teacher. After graduating from Western Albemarle High School, she attended Longwood University and PVCC. Then she started working in development and fundraising at UVA. She is also currently studying for her masters degree at Mary Baldwin. Dowell has been working at PVCC for eight years and has been a state employee for 28. She plans to keep working at PVCC as she finishes her masters degree. Dowell used to help with Boy Scout troop with her husband who was the Scout Master. She currently serves on the CATEC Foundation Board and was also named to the Parent Council at Longwood University. She has been a coach and president of a baseball league. Her love of coaching was influenced by her father who was a referee for 30 years and is now a director of scouting and recruitment for referees in the NFL. Her stepfather served in the Vietnam War which has also inspired her to work as the past President of American Legion Auxiliary #74, a group that supports people who have served in the military. Dowell is married and has a 23-year-old son that attends PVCC. They raise cows, miniature donkeys and rescue collies in their spare time. Page 23 Classifieds Contact Us The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 twhyte@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: twhyte@pvcc.edu. The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Bryn Dotson Madison Weikle Online Editor Deadra Miller Check us out on social media @PVCCForum The Forum is a voice for all students. Accordingly, materials published in The Forum, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the VCCS, Piedmont Virginia Community College, or any stakeholder thereof. The paper welcomes letters to the editor, guest columns, questions, photography or any other ideas or submissions one may have for the upcoming publications. Please contact twhyte@pvcc.edu with any questions. Staff Writers/Copyeditors Jessica Adkins Liberty Anderson Jamie Blake David Brown Callan Shore Bryn Dotson Ryan Foresman Kaytlynne Gentry Aleena Haidari Shafat Khan Shawn Kochhar Deadra Miller Montana Mitchell Charles Parziale III Elizabeth Phan Veronica Reyes James Tucker Madison Weikle Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...