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... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com December 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College Angela Nebel Presents Discovery at Geology Society of America Convention Elise Hansen, Staff Writer PVCC student Angela Nebel joined nearly 5,000 students and professionals who presented original research at this years Geological Society of America (GSA) convention. Nebels presentation, The Anatomy of a Rock Slide, documented her discovery of 500-million-year-old fossils near Sherando Lake, located outside of Waynesboro. Nebel was one of the few community college students at the conference. Roughly 60 percent of presenters were professionals in the field, often scholars with Ph.Ds or years of professional experience. The remaining presenters were students, primarily graduate students or undergraduates at four-year institutions. Convention attendees hailed from 58 different countries. Specialties ranged from Planetary Geology to Nebels own group, Geomorphology and Quaternary Geology. Almost everybody involved in geology was there, Nebel said. The people there, I want my story to encourage more students; they can reach these levels, Nebel said. they were presenting amazing, amazing stuff. Nebel discovered the fossils almost by accident. She was collecting samples near Sherando Lake for a supervised study course in geology and noticed a number of fossilized worm burrows partially exposed by erosion. She recognized the formation and brought samples back to PVCC for further study. The fossils date back to the Cambrian Era, about 500 million years ago. While this fossil formation See Nebel on page 4 In This Issue Rocky Horror at PVCC, Photography by Kelly Wilmer PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Mental Health -pg. 6 Scholarships -pg. 9 Rocky Horror -pg. 10 Club News Comics -pg. 14-15 -pg. 18 DATES TO REMEMBER California Roll and Teriyaki Burger Dec. 1, 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room The Rocky Horror Show Dec. 3-5, 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium Fall 2015 Classes End Dec. 11 Let There Be Light Dec. 11, 6-9 p.m., Dickinson Building Exam Week Dec. 12-18 Winter Break Dec. 19-Jan. 11 Payment due date for Spring classes Jan. 5, 4 p.m. Spring 2016 Classes Begin Jan. 11 Free Movie Friday Jan. 15, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium Lesoles Dance Project: Dancing Through South Africa Jan. 16, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Building Fourth Fridays Improv Jan. 22, 6-8 p.m., Dickinson Building Martin Luther King Day holiday Jan. 18 Theatre of the Oppressed Workshop Feb. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Dickinson Building Spring Break Feb. 29 - Mar. 4 PVCC Students Make the Evening News NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer The Nelsonite petition project, initiated by Professor Lawrence Tiezzi, is gaining momentum. Three of the students petitioning for the Nelsonite to become Virginias official state rock met with a reporter from Newsplex Channel 19 on Thursday, Oct. 29, Michelle Stanislause, Owen Krug and Teshawna Quarles. The reporter heard about us from someone in the community and contacted the college to do a story, Stanislause wrote in an email. The guy that was here for the Heritage or Hate speech, he signed our petition and he was interested by it, Quarles said. Many of PVCCs staff and students have already supported the Nelsonite petition with their signatures. According to Quarles, the number of signatures is in the ballpark of 400. There has not been an official count yet, but Stanislause said that the group intends to collect more signatures. As the petitioning process continues, the group has moved on to the legal aspects of getting the Nelsonite to be recognized as Virginias state rock. Stanislause mentioned that their group has an appointment with a senator of Nelson County to ask him to sponsor their bill. They will have more details after Nov. 11. According to Quales, the group cannot disclose the name of the senator until the process is further along. Page 2 Student Government Association News Fellow PVCC Students! From the SGA, we want to congratulate everyone on surviving the Fall Semester! As the temperature starts to drop, so does the motivation, usually. Fortunately, the members of the SGA this year have been working extra hard to make sure we are doing the best job we can to serve our students in the most appropriate manner. Now, here are a few dates that everyone should be keeping in mind! Nov. 30-Dec. 10: Student Appreciation Night Tables set out in all of the buildings on Campus with Dunkin Donuts and coffee, ALL FOR FREE. We understand exams are stressful, that is why we are helping to make it a little better. So look out for the SGA tables and make sure to come over! December 1, 12 to 4 p.m.: Campus Cleanup The SGA along with any clubs willing to help can participate with us keeping our campus beautiful! Some of the PVCC students that attended the VCCS Leadership Conference Nov. 6-8 Now to end of the semester: SGA Help Desk If you have not yet noticed, the SGA now has a help desk set up once a week in each building. If there are any questions, comments, concerns, or ideas, we would love to hear feedback from everyone! Also, if you are interested in joining the SGA, you can do so right at the table and get in on the great action! I hope everyone enjoyed Spring Fling and Casino Night which were sponsored by the SGA. We certainly put forth a lot of effort and feel it has been a successful semester. We are currently working on our first ever Talent Show for the spring. Make sure to keep up with us for further announcements. Camron Perry SGA President cfp2258@email.vccs.edu You can find the SGA office near the student terrace; look for the new sign Page 3 Angela Nebel, continued from page 1 is common in other parts of Virginia, no one had ever recorded it at Sherando Lake. Nebel presented her research to other geology students at PVCC. Her professor, Lawrence Tiezzi, encouraged her to submit her abstract to the GSA to see if she could present her work at its annual convention. When I saw [it was accepted], I couldnt believe it! she said. Nebel showed her poster at the convention in Baltimore in an enormous room next to hundreds of other students and geologists. While there, she had the opportunity to speak with other geologists and learn about their research. As she scrolls through pictures of the conference, her voice becomes more animated and she leans in, pointing out her favorite presentations. The most interesting projects for me were the Planetary Geology ones, she said. Look, you can see the projects are about Mars, Venus, she points out the listings in the schedule of events she received at the conference. Nebels interest in geology began five years ago in her native country of Chile. An 8.8 earthquake rocked the nation in 2010. The earthquake and the resulting tsunami were responsible for over 500 deaths and the destruction of an estimated 400,000 homes, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica. As the country reeled in the wake of the tragedy, Nebel began to ask questions. She began to explore the tectonic forces that could cause such widespread destruction. The more she learned, the more her fascination grew. Her studies eventually led her to China and Tibet, where she saw the Himalayas up close. I realized, wow, this is real, this is really big, she said. After that, she was hooked. Although she had graduated from high school years before, she received her GED to jump-start her journey back into education. She was contacted by a PVCC recruiter who introduced her to the opportunities for study at PVCC. Nebel packed her things and prepared to be a student in the U.S. At first, being a non-native English speaker at a U.S. college was an immense challenge. While her reading and speaking skills quickly improved, she discovered that writing in another language was difficult. That was my biggest barrier as an ESL student, she said. However, she persevered, and now plans to graduate PVCC in 2016, then transfer to James Madison University to continue her study of geology. Ultimately, she would like to practice geology professionally in the United States. She is currently applying for citizenship to make this final dream a reality. She shook her head in amazement as she reviewed the places her path is taking her: from Chile to PVCC, then on to JMU and beyond. This is the mountain Im climbing now, she said. As for her experience at the GSA, she hopes it will inspire other PVCC students to dream big and work toward their goals. I want my story to encourage more students; they can reach these levels, she said. Maybe next year we can send another student to the conference! Photography courtesy of Angela Nebel Page 4 Commit to Leadership at PVCC Antonia Florence, Staff Writer The crowd in the ballroom erupted into a roar of Commit! Commit! The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Student Leadership Conference, held in historic Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center, was attended by a delegation representing each community college in the state of Virginia. \ This years theme, The Power of You, represented the fact that each of us has the ability to grow in a leadership capacity, but it takes commitment. Heather Sorrell, associate director of enrollment management and student support for the VCCS, definitely committed to making this years conference a lively, educational engagement. After Friday nights dinner, the rest of the evening was filled with motivational entertainment by our lively emcee, Stan Pearson, II. Music blared, accompanied intermittently with spontaneous dance episodes by conference participants. Pearson is an engaging author, energetic speaker, and motivational comedian. His shows are entertaining, educational and interactive from beginning to end. His charisma, sense of humor and ability to connect with his audience engages the most disconnected participant. Afterward, a lively meet and greet social was held well into the evening. Saturday morning started at dawn with an incredible breakfast. Our keynote speaker, Isa Adney, is a writer, TV host and inspirational speaker. Her groundbreaking book Community College Success: How to Finish with Friends, Scholarships, Internships, and the Career of Your Dreams is a comprehensive narrative about networking strategies specifically targeted at first generation and community college students. Adney also writes regularly for The Huffington Post. Her trailblazing speaking engagements have been hosted by various community-based agencies, community colleges, universities, nonprofits, and corporations. She hosted a questionand-answer session afterward. The day was filled with concurrent hour-long sessions geared toward fostering each students leadership potential. Many of these sessions were led by Virginias community college personnel who exhibited creativity within their presentations, while other sessions were presented by industry leaders and experts in their field. There were so many interesting topics to choose from in such a limited amount of time. Read about them by visiting our website www.piedmontforum.com where you will find this information along with many more articles. Participants had a difficult time choosing which four sessions to attend. Perhaps next years schedule will allow for participation in more sessions. After a brief decompression time and dinner on our own, some chose to participate in a community service project for Stop Hunger Now! We assembled meal bags consisting of rice, dehydrated vegetables, dried texturized vegetable protein (TVP), and a packet of vitamins. These individual meal bags, which feed six people, will be dispensed to developing nations and distributed to schoolgirls to take home to their families. This is the only reason why many of the girls are sent to school in a country where the education of females is not supported. Other activities that went into the night were Corn Hole, casino games, balloon art, a crazy photo booth, Nguzo Saba African American Drum & Dance, a caricature artist, and an ice cream social. It was hard crawling out of our warm comfortable beds Sunday morning. Breakfast was accompanied with closing remarks and a reminder from our energetic emcee to commit to our leadership. The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves, said Ray Kroc. If this has piqued your interest and you want to participate next year, it is possible. Get involved in a PVCC club or organization. Take the initiative in a leadership capacity. This could be your story next year. Challenge yourself. Page 5 Community Concerns: Mental Health Joe Fowler, Staff Writer Several local mental health professionals spoke about the state of mental health treatment during September and October in a series of interviews and email exchanges. They told stories of both struggle and hope. Though statistics and research have their place in the discussion, the most compelling depiction of the current state of mental health care seems to stem from the experience of the afflicted and those who treat them. Most of the professionals interviewed work, or have worked, at Region 10 Community Services Board (Region 10 CSB), a recovery center for those who suffer from mental health and substance abuse issues. Both former employees and clients of the CSB spoke of their experiences in other areas involving mental health and the treatment of mental illness. One of the first matters discussed pertained to the availability of treatment. Dr. Amber Yoder, a psychiatrist with Region 10 CSB, said, Sometimes folks are not receiving treatment because its challenging for them to access it for one reason or another, which is frustrating. However, Yoder said that she thought ease of access was improving overall. Yoder pointed out the development of a program that grants free psychiatric care to inmates just leaving incarceration while they fall under supervision from the department of probation and parole. Yet Yoder maintains that there is always room for improvement. Ryan Senator, a mental health counseling resident at Region 10, agrees with Yoder on the problems involving ease of access but seemed far less excited about court ordered programs. Senator pointed out that some of Region 10s services stem from the agencys involvement with organizations such as Probation and Parole and drug court. One of the main problems with clients seeking treatment from legal sources is that theres nothing to inspire them to keep receiving treatment, he said, speaking of the frequency with which court-ordered cases lapse back into negative behaviors upon their discharge from Region 10. Dr. Ruel Tyer, who has a Ph.D in counseling, talked more directly about the services at Region 10. Tyer once worked as a counselor at Region 10 before starting his own practice over a year ago. Tyer explained that Region 10 receives little of its funding from the government but instead relies on contracts with entities such as social security and drug court. Region 10s partners request certain services, and Region 10 adheres to the requests in order to make their budget. Tyer said that Region 10s services are still based in part on personal assessments of client needs and not solely on the basis of institutions that have less understanding of the client on a personal level. When describing his work in the private sector, Tyer explained that services are based solely on client needs. His funding comes from clients, rather than a salary like the one he received when working for Region 10. Both Tyer and Yoder spoke of their struggles as mental health professionals. Along with some of the challenges already discussed, Yoder spoke of clients who lose touch with the treatment community, saying, Sometimes folks lack the insight needed to stay in treatment, which can be common with mental illness and addiction, and fall out of touch. Tyer spoke of more of the frustrations associated with working at Region 10. According to Tyer, the CSB refers clients to therapy and generally with a 10 - 12 session limit based on policy that is more geared for acute care rather than ongoing treatment. The practice often leaves the therapist with the dilemma of providing the best possible care in a limited amount of time. Tyer also addressed the over-prescribing of psychotropic medications by Primary Care Physicians (PCPs). He detailed the case of a Page 6 Mental Health, Continued person who had lost a family member. The individuals PCP diagnosed the patient with depression and prescribed anti-depressant medication. The individual became a client under Tyers care. Tyer explained that the PCP had not administered an assessment for clinical depression. Tyer did. The client met little of the criteria for clinical depression and certainly not enough to warrant anti-depressant medication. Tyer suggested therapy and grief counseling over a medication that could alter the clients brain chemistry. Both doctors spoke of their successes in a more intangible sense than their struggles. Success is dependent on the client sitting across from me, said Tyer. I cant take credit. Yoder echoed this statement, saying, I enjoy being able to develop a relationship with the people I work with and to see them get better. Tyer mentioned a statistic confirming Yoders sentiment, saying that 40 to 60 percent of success is based on the relationship with the client. Yoder also spoke of another struggle in treating mental illness. People dont always get better, for a myriad of reasons. Sometimes folks have chronic illness and the job becomes helping them live with the illness in the best way possible. One such individual, Max Eshleman, spoke about his experience with mental illness. Eshlemans diagnosis is bipolar with schizoaffective disorder. Eshleman is both a client of Region 10 and a former employee. He described his symptoms as Mood swings, bouts of depression, severe anxiety and agitation and aggression when symptoms were bad. He first sought treatment in 1994 in Philadelphia. It took a couple years in and out of psych wards to really gain any stability. Eshleman moved to Virginia in 1994 and received treatment from Region 10 almost immediately by moving in with his sister and using her address to establish residency in the service area. It was much easier to get in then. Theyre just overwhelmed now. Region 10 also granted Eshleman employment at a dual recovery center, where he worked for years until he had an extremely bad flare up of his illness that led to a violent encounter with another employee at the center. After losing his position, Eshleman continued receiving treatment at Region 10. Among the services Region 10 has provided him, Eshleman lists housing assistance, general case management and counseling. It took several years to receive treatment in increments, Eshleman said. Though he reports having depressive episodes every couple of weeks, Eshleman describes himself as high functioning, easy to get along with, well-adjusted and satisfied, though his next episode is more a fact than a possibility. Susan Hannifan, PVCCs Disability Services Counselor, spoke on the treatment of the mentally ill as well. Though she gladly serves as an advocate for students with mental health troubles, the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) does not provide counseling centers, nor does it provide psychological services for its students. However, Hannifan explained that the VCCS is considering these services in light of the increase in school shootings nationwide. My main caseload are students with hearing disabilities and mental health problems, she said. Outside of advocacy, Hannifan stated that her job is to educate the staff that these cases exist whether or not the student displays obvious signs of mental illness. Though there appears to be a great deal of hope about the future of mental health care, there still seems to be a great deal of challenges to overcome before that hope becomes a reality. The stories of professionals and sufferers alike can explain much about mental illness in general. One of those voices spoke out more directly than the others about the biggest challenge facing mental health treatment on a local, state and nationwide level. Dr. Tyer stated his perspective: The government doesnt view mental health issues as a big enough problem to put money into. Page 7 Thank You, All Who Have Served Our Country Owen Krug, Staff Writer The Veterans Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 11, went as most celebrations do: there was food, drinks and mingling. The event started at 12 p.m. in the North Mall meeting room and lasted several hours. Veterans from PVCC and veterans from the community attended. Jason Corral, the local director for Concerned Vets For America (CVA), gave a speech on being a veteran and what it means to be a veteran integrated into the community. After the speech, the veterans were able to walk around, meet other veterans and learn about upcoming events and opportunities in the community and through PVCC. Nate Thomas, the president of the Veterans Club, feels this interaction with other veterans is the most important part of Veterans Day. Everybody on Veterans Day says thank you for serving, but the ability to sit down with someone and share each other's stories allows you to really connect with someone and makes the whole day much more personable, he said. After the food trays are empty and the drinks are dry, what is a veterans celebration all about? Throughout the year, holidays come and go. They have names such as Labor Day, Memorial Day or Veterans Day, but do people really understand what they are honoring? When thinking of Memorial Day, spring weather, grills and entertainment are what usually come to mind, because that's what it represents culturally for our society. It is imperative to take a step back and realize Memorial Day is dedicated to those men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice to the country. While the traditions of picnicking, enjoying friends and family are important, it is equally important to take a moment to recognize why that day is special. Veterans Day falls into a very similar category. In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice came into effect between the Allied nations and Germany, officially ending World War I. It is for that reason we celebrate Veterans Day on Nov. 11th: it marks the end of one of the bloodiest conflicts in world history. Unlike Memorial Day, on Veterans Day, people have an opportunity to thank those in person who have served. These men and women have made incredible sacrifices, but thankfully they were able to come home. Not only does Nov. 11 mark a day where citizens can thank and honor veterans, it is also a day that other veterans can spend time with each other. Patrick Fritz, the president of Phi Theta Kappa, a PVCC student and a veteran, thinks that to be with other veterans is much like being with family. There is a certain level of understanding that is expressed without words; it is felt. The movement behind these holidays must never be forgotten. To lose their purpose in a sea of hot dogs, hamburgers and warm weather does these men and women a disservice. The next time Veterans Day comes around, remember there is much more to be grateful for. Whether it is a handshake or a hug, Nov. 11 is an opportunity to look a veteran in the eyes and say thank youthank you for everything you have done for me and my country. Page 8 138 Scholarship Awards Celebrated for 2015 Arif Michael Vega, Staff Writer The scholarship program at PVCC is both robust and generous, and the call for more students to take advantage of it rings loud. There were 156 guests at PVCCs main building Friday, Nov. 13. The crowd, comprised of scholarship recipients and local philanthropists, came together for an early Thanksgiving. They gathered to meet each other, converse and better understand the relationship between education and philanthropy. They also came together to honor the scholars and donors that work to weave a strong future for our community. There is a deficit to be addressed, and that deficit is in student participation. Felicia Davis is one recipient of the awards celebrated that night. With only two hundred students having completed the application process, competition was slim, she says. Out of that, this year, we had around 138 recipients. Her advice for the timid among potential applicants is simple. Apply anyway. If you have the chance, why not? Another scholar, Annette Cashaw, received three awards. This was her second application, and she encourages everyone to keep up applications throughout their college career. You never gain anything by doing nothing, she said. Scholarships are granted to students with a variety of backgrounds. Homeschoolers, those with strong academic performance, minorities, low income and people in certain programs of Photography by Arif Michael Vega study are all examples. The donors, too, are diverse. The local Chamber of Commerce, businesses both international and local, individuals and families were all represented. Student ambassador Kathryn Morris earned awards through the Bast family scholarship for her high GPA. Any resident of the Charlottesville -Albemarle area is eligible to apply. Some scholars gave speeches at the event; many spoke of improving as individuals, families. and communities. Some were new to public speaking but still spoke with aplomb at the podium. Cashaw refers to her performance as calm on the outside, but like a little volcano inside. Others spoke of the benefits the whole community gains by investing in our neighbors education. Among them was president of the PVCC Educational Foundation and genealogist Robert Capon. By show of hands, Capon celebrated the diversity of attendees, including veterans, immigrants and other disadvantaged groups. Capon used his own familys history to illustrate the path from an illiterate ancestry to his position at PVCC. La Cucina Classica provided catering. Social Justice from the Tandem Friends School Arif Michael Vega, Staff Writer The downtown freedom wall was well-utilized on Sunday, Nov. 15. Students of the Tandem Friends Council and the Charlottesville Center for Peace and Justice prepared a memorial, consisting of 262 blank notebooks, to bring awareness to school violence. Each notebook was labelled with the name of a student killed since the Columbine High School incident of 1999. The notebooks were to be donated to students in Costa Rica when the exhibit was finished. Two stewards awaited curious onlookers to answer questions about the event. Several handpainted signs portrayed the frustration felt by the students involved, and the freedom wall hosted the thoughts of other participants. Page 9 PVCC Takes on The Rocky Horror Show Kelly Wilmer, Staff Writer approval, of course. I got the presidents approval, which was quite interesting because Since he was young, Brad Stoller has been a actually the dean said, Ill pass this by him, but I fan of the cult classic movie The Rocky Horror doubt youre going to get approval for this show, Picture Show. I go way back with this show, and the answer I got back was I love this show said Stoller, I took my first date when I was from Frank Friedman, said Stoller. thirteen years old. It had just come out, and I had The play and the movie are both notoriously no idea what it wasI took her to the local known for their sexually explicit content. Its movie theater to what I thought was a horror film, very risqu, raunchy you might say, said Stoller. I learned differently. However, no matter how risqu or raunchy the The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a film scenes are, they will not be cut from this adaptation of Richard OBriens play The Rocky production of The Rocky Horror Show. Horror Show. Now, Piedmont Virginia You gotta do Rocky Horror one way, said Community College is taking on OBriens play Krug, you cant do an edited version of Rocky with Brad Stoller as the director. Horror, thats for sure. The director has only Since September, made one cut, which was PVCCs theater a minor line from the department and members character Rocky that he of the Charlottesville felt did not tie in well community have been with the play. With the working on the exception of one line, the production of The Rocky cast will be sticking to Horror Show. Its a the original script. huge undertaking, first of Piedmonts all how well known it is, production will be whenever youre doing a similar to the movie. play that people know the According to Stoller, lines to, its real tough, its pretty close to the said Owen Krug, PVCC movie. The main student and stage differences are that there manager of the play. is an extra song for Brad, But Stoller believed that Eddie is not eaten PVCC was ready for this for dinner as he is in the huge undertaking. In movie, and other than addition to being the that, I personally have director, Stoller is also made the narrator a more the adjunct coordinator of integral part of the theatre productions at show. PVCC. This means he Because of this decides which plays the similarity, every actor in theater department will the PVCC production produce every fall and has seen the movie. They spring. That is, with have studied the ways school president, Dr. the actors have Frank Friedmans interpreted their Photography by Kelly Wilmer Page 10 characters in The Rocky Horror Picture Show and have drawn inspiration from them. However, the cast of The Rocky Horror Show is in no way trying to mimic the movie. Instead, each actor has created his or her own version of their roles. Our Frank n Furter is definitely giving his own taste, said Krug, Dont go there expecting to see Tim Curry because youre going to see Darien Tinsley. The Charlottesville community has been involved in the production of Rocky Horror; it has not been exclusive to just faculty and students. Five of the eighteen actors in the play are Photography by Kelly Wilmer community members not affiliated with PVCC. Acting is not the only way the community Horror Show. This entails the use of props has been involved. There will be a live band (audience members must bring their own props); performing the musical numbers in the play. We singing along with the cast and shouting will also have a live professional band. Its all musicians be encouraged. Were not encouraging people from town who love this show and wanted to be to be quiet, its not that kind of a show. That in it, said Stoller. would be against the whole feeling of it, said The Shenandoah Fringe Festival has become Stoller, They [the audience] should expect a fun involved as well. They will be hosting a costume froth of a show. contest during the intermission of each showing Join the fun by getting your ticket today. of The Rocky Horror Show. There will be a $3 Tickets are being sold for $10 but are free to entrance fee; proceeds will go to the live band. students with a voucher. Vouchers can be Entrees will have a chance to win over $300 in obtained at the welcome desk and should be prizes. All the prizes are donations by local presented at the box office to receive your free organizations including Live Arts, Charlottesville ticket. Pride, Impulse and The Shenandoah Fringe According to PVCCs website, showings for Festival. The Rocky Horror Show will be from Dec. 3-5 at The audience is going to be included in the 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m. The show will play as well by being allowed to participate in take place on campus in The Earl Dickinson typical cult traditions involved with The Rocky Theater. Page 11 One Book Trivia Contest Winners On Nov. 18, PVCC held a trivia contest as the closing event for the Fall 2015 One Book Project. Three teams of students answered Jeopardy-style questions about The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks for a chance to win prizes. The prizes included a free 3-credit class, a Kindle Fire HDX 16G, and gift certificates to the PVCC bookstore. The team The Over-Writers (Alissa Bush, Ethan Bush, and Grayson Katzenbach) won first place. The Tye-Dyed Chickens (Ethan Ryan, Laura Moore, and Catie Harris) came in second, and The Lone Ranger (Anne Auker) came in third. Alissa Bush, Ethan Bush and Grayson Katzenbach Ethan Ryan, Laura Moore and Catie Harris Anne Auker Internship Programs at PVCC Claudia Cruz, Staff Writer mentioned, working as an intern is a great practice to get ready for the real world. As for Internship week was a big event for students at speaker Pother, he was an intern for NASA Piedmont Virginia Community College. They working on spaceships during the summer. He had informative meetings throughout the week said, because he had to move to another city he from Nov. 3. to Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in had to do it over the summer, but some of the Bolick Student Center. The internship event his coworkers commute from their homes. was for students who want to learn about the Internship opportunities are available to all internship opportunities for the spring and students who are interested. Visit their office the summer semester. Career Services in room M129. Choby mentioned During the event, speakers Doug Fargo, that there are paid internships. Also, working as Linda Andery, Tylor Davis, Mark Pother, an intern helps students to earn credits and letters Mathew C. Shifflett, and Alex Hollis gave of recommendations for future four-year information about their universities. experience as interns and the The Career Services benefits of being an intern. Office welcomes any They were all in internships further questions; they have with different jobs. all types of internships like Hollis started at Albemarle accounting, Baking as an intern four years communications, digital ago, and with time she became media, graphic design, and a current employee. Hollis more. Photography by Caroline Morris Page 12 How to have an adventure NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer On Nov. 11, David G. Tatman offered a view on adventures that people seldom consider. After giving the definition of the word adventure from the Oxford English Dictionary, he gave his own definition of the word: A journey there and back again that entails some risks. Tatmans lecture How to Have an Adventure was an exhaustive guide to properly preparing for and executing an adventure in a way that minimizes unnecessary risks. Tratman gave simple tips on how to begin an adventure; the first step was to dream. He said magazines with lots of pictures area good place to start. Tatman went on to outline the necessary preparations and precautions that are relevant for any destination someone would choose for an adventure. He covered a wide range of topics including what kind of clothes to pack, learning wilderness first aid, building up physical strength, tools for communicating in places where English is not spoken, the importance of having at least two passports, and how to find out which immunizations are needed for certain locations. Many of those who attended were surprised to learn that an American citizen can have more than one passport. Tatman also touched on how and why to choose the proper companion(s) for a trip. Tatman also brought in a variety of items that he said are useful, especially if your adventure is mostly outdoors or in rural areas. He had many handkerchiefs; two of them had knot tying instructions from the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts on them and one had basic wilderness first aid instructions on it. Tatman passed around compact survival books and what he called Pointy-talkies, a sort of brochure, published by Kwikpoint, with pictures which are used for communication between people who do not speak the same language. You dont have to speak the language; just point to it, said Tatman. Tatman gave information about several resources that are useful in planning and preparing for a trip. He mentioned helpful websites and an insurance company that specializes in international emergency coverage that includes flights to the nearest hospital from remote areas. When somebody on an adventure tells you hang on, you better hang on. Tatman said before taking a rope from his bag. To demonstrate the importance of having upperbody strength, Tatman asked for volunteers. Associate Professor Colum Leckey volunteered Associate Professor Jorge Grajales-Diaz. Tatman pulled a chair over to Grajales-Diaz and told him to sit down as he handed him one end of the rope. Tatman gave the other end to Leckey and two other gentlemen who volunteered, and then he told them to pull Grajales-Diaz across the floor with the rope. Although the chair was not suited for sliding easily across the carpeted floor and Grajales-Diaz was pulled right out of the chair, Tatmans point was clear. Tatman covered nearly every area you could think of concerning travel and having the optimum experience. He gave lots of detailed, indepth information in a simple and engaging way. The audience gave Tatman a hearty applause at the conclusion of his lecture and, no doubt, everyone left with valuable information and a different perspective on adventures to consider. Page 13 Writers Unite: Creative Writing Club at PVCC Kelly Wilmer, Staff Writer Writers gather at PVCCs Writing Center classroom M627 located in the Writing Center, every other Monday at 3 p.m. For over ten years, Creative Writing Club, also known as Writers Unite, has been active in the PVCC community. We host the Fall Line, the 3-Minute Horror Story contest, the National Day on Writing Event, and we bring in guest speakers periodically, said Annette Cashatt, Copresident of the club. Creative Writing Club is an informal, supportive environment for learning about experiencing and creating contemporary creative writing-poetry, fiction and non-fiction, according to PVCCs website. All meetings are open to PVCC students who would like to join. The club is advised by Professor of English Jennifer A. Koster. Koster holds an MFA in creative writing and is also the coordinator for the Writing Center. Co-presidents Annette Cashatt and Russell Wright lead the meetings. Cashatt described a typical meeting for Writers Unite: Often there are a few prompts that members can choose to use if they desire to and we spend about 10-15 minutes writing. Then people may read their writing aloud if they like. Next, we typically discuss either club related tasks or general topics about writing. Something unique about Creative Writing Club is that it runs the schools literary magazine, The Fall Line. The Fall Line was introduced to Piedmont six years ago and releases an issue once a year every April. It may be confusing to some why a magazine released in April is called The Fall Line. The name is geographical term meaning a narrow zone that marks the geological boundary between an upland region and a plain, distinguished by the occurrence of falls and rapids where rivers and streams cross it, according to the Spring 2015 issue. The magazine receives quite a few submissions. On average, 40 entries, and we take about one-third of those--thus far, said Annette Cashatt on Club Day photography by Tamara Whyte Koster. Writers work accepted in The Fall Line will go to print and online. We print 350 copies per year, and the college has a pdf of each issue on the PVCC website under Publications, said Koster. Writers Unite allows writers to cultivate their skills. I believe being able to speak to other people about ideas and issues pertinent to writing allows me to grow in my own understanding of the craft. Just taking the time out to simply write a little bit helps me grow, said Cashatt. Recently, co-president of Writers Unite, Russell Wright, self-published a novel, Shadow Strike Birth of a Vigilante. He says that Creative Writing Club helped him with his novel. Participating in the creative writing club helped make me a better writer and that is reflected in my novel. Some the members of the club graciously read a sample chapter from the book and gave me useful feedback, said Wright. The next club meeting will be held Monday Dec. 7 at 3 p.m. Page 14 Adult Student Life Club Meets the President NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer On Nov. 5, PVCC President Frank Friedman met with members of the Adult Student Life Club (ASL) to discuss, well, anything they wanted. Nothing is off limits, said Denise McClanahan, PVCCs Outreach Manager, as she introduced Friedman. McClanahan is the staff advisor for the ASL Club and she arranged the Q&A for adult students to have the opportunity to address issues that concern them and make recommendations. Instead of addressing the students standing up, Friedman pulled up a chair and invited the students to have a conversation with him. He wore a friendly smile as he relaxed into his chair and asked everyone to introduce themselves. Every student there was over the age of 25 and many of them had full-time jobs and children. As part of their introductions, they mentioned their fields of study and goals for life after PVCC. The students brought up several topics including the nursing program, course evaluations and online classes. There was even a complaint that there is nowhere on campus to buy aspirin or Band-Aids. Friedman addressed each concern with practical suggestions and explanations. Whenever recommendations were made, he welcomed them and said they were good ideas. We want to be the best we can and were always searching for ideas to be better, Friedman said. Most of the members present that evening had been out of school for many years before attending PVCC. The club caters to students over the age of 25 and offers them opportunities to interact with others who can relate to their situation. According to McClanahan, the ASL Club is student driven. She says that she tries to arrange meetings that the students will enjoy and that she always wants to know what the students want to do. The club was launched in June of this year, and the Nov. 5 meeting was its sixth one. The student contact for the ASL Club, Gina Edwards, said For a community college with so many adults in the program, [McClanahan] has put together so many awesome programs.She is very open to ideas. I really wanted to start this club when I first started [at PVCC], but I had to wait until I became the manager, so it came to fruition in June, McClanahan explained. Its been a really good way to add kind of a benefit value for the adults that are coming to school here; they really need a place to connect. So that was the whole point of this club. Because they are students who also have their own families and full-time jobs, it is rare for all the members to meet at once; only eight were able to attend that evening. McClanahan said, Weve had over 50 people come here at least one time. Students in the ASL Club have already enjoyed a social, a presentation from Todd Parks about time management and a presentation from Bill Pratt about financial planning. The Adult Student Life Club has a unique schedule that works around the availability of its members to attend. McClanahan said that the next meeting will not be until Jan. 2016 because many of the students will be focusing their time on final exams. The club usually meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Page 15 A Night Not of Color but of Culture Krista C. Petzold, Staff Writer We all have heartbeats; we all breathe air and look to the same sky. On Nov. 14, PVCC brought different forms of humanity together on one stage. Red Crooked Sky performed for the public and showed representations of many different Native American tribes, including Cherokee, Sioux, Meherrin, Shoshone, Haliwa Saponi, Pamunkey, Micmac, Seneca, Monacan, Comanche and Menominee. As these representatives of their tribes danced and sang together, it became clear that even though they came from different parts of the U.S., they all danced under one sun and sang under the same moon. They have different cultures, but the culture of mankind beats in each of their hearts. The show began the same way that many Native Americans believe all life did in the beginning, with the single heartbeat that began the world. Circular dance motions represented a circle of life that had no beginning and no end. The song and dance selections evoked the everlasting themes such as human emotion, rising and setting of times, different animals, hunting and gathering along with the basic needs for survival. Music and dance proved to be the universal language that engaged everyone. One highlight of the show was the hoop dance. A man came on stage with multiple hoops and through his dance evoked the rising and setting sun and the birds that soar in the sky and the butterflies that herald the spring. Throughout the performance, people applauded the mans storytelling. At the end of the night, the men and women of the tribes introduced themselves and the tribe they represented. They answered questions about their lives and their cultures. They spoke about how many Native American languages have been lost or are slowly dying out and how it is important to teach the young children of the tribe the languages. Because Native American cultures are so steeped in oral tradition, the loss of a language would be a massive hit to the tribe and its culture. Some of the people spoke about how they are bringing the languages back by having elders teach the children in schools. One question regarded living on reservations. The audience learned that the largest Native American tribe that is alive and well is the Navaho tribe. The viewers also learned that many other tribes are having a much harder time keeping their cultures alive. One purpose of Red Crooked Sky is to perform and educate the public about the lives of Native Americans and see the world through their eyes. The final question for the night was, Which term do you prefer to be called: Native American or Indian? The respondents had different opinions, but many said that if you call them by any name but mean it in a positive light they are not offended. However, this varies from person to person. Overall, the night was the perfect mix of education and entertainment. Very few experiences could have come close to being under the spell of the Red Crooked Sky. People had the opportunity to look beyond skin color or where we are from and realize that underneath we all have a heartbeat. We all have the human culture in our blood. Page 16 Caring for Virginias Creatures Krista C. Petzold, Staff Writer Caring for Creatures is not only home to dogs but is also to over a hundred feline friends. One As the holiday season approaches, people of these is a male cat, Gabriel, who was found as gather around friends, family, food, gifts and a scared stray back in Feb. 2008. After spending holiday cheer. Not far away, a team of heroes for some time being shy, he has become sweet and animal kind work throughout the holidays and loving but still quiet and polite. If he wants your dedicate their time helping those less fortunate. attention, he will come over and give a light and Caring for Creatures (CFC) is the first no-kill loving head-butt while he purrs. After animal rescue in central Virginia and is located in spending so long overcoming his shyness, Fluvanna County. CFC Gabriel is ready for a receives no funding through special someone to give local or state government but him a chance to be the survives solely on the perfect lap kitty. donations of individuals and Gabriel, Chilly, and fundraising activities. CFC Cosmo are just three of over began its mission of being a 200 animals that are waiting safe place for animals in 1988. for their forever homes. If It is currently home to over you cannot adopt, there are 200 animals. Staff and many other ways of helping volunteers give homeless these wonderful animals animals nutritious food, warm this holiday season. Like Photographs Courtesy of CFC shelter, clean water, fun toys, Caring for Creatures on proper veterinary care and lots Facebook to learn more of love and compassion. Every animal that comes about how to help these pets or visit the CFC through CFC is treated as an individual and cared website, www.caringforcreatures.org, where you for according to its needs. can donate and find information on sponsoring Some of the animals at the rescue include one (or more) of the centers pets. Caring for Cosmo, a black lab who arrived at CFC when his Creatures has also posted its holiday wish list elderly people could no longer care for him. under the You Can Help tab. There is no gift Cosmo has been at CFC for about four years and too small or unappreciated within the walls of is a favorite among staff and volunteers. A black Caring for Creatures. beauty with some greying wisdom hairs on his You can also always choose to donate your face, this man loves car rides and being a time by becoming one of the many amazing companion to anyone who will give him a volunteers that Caring for Creatures is so chance. After four holiday seasons with CFC, thankful for. As a volunteer, one can help with Cosmo is ready to find a home of his own. socialization of animals, playing with and One dog who has come a long way is light- walking the dogs, or help with the day-to-day colored hound named Chilly. He was a skinny tasks of dishes or laundry. There are also many stray who seemed to be scared of everything that other ways to moved. He was the definition of shy guy, but help. with some loving hands, gentle voices, yummy This holiday roast beef treats, and time to heal from his past, season, please Chilly has become a buddy for anyone he meets. consider helping a Chilly is a lovebug and no longer hides in his less fortunate house when a visitor comes by his pen. Chilly is animal in your proof of what time and love can heal. community. Page 17 Review: Maharaja Indian Buffet Claudia Cruz, Staff Writer Charlottesville has more than 44 restaurants. It offers a wide range of local restaurants, from fine dining to casual dining. I had the pleasure of going to Maharaja to try their Indian buffet, offered from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Maharaja is a nice place, well decorated with lanterns, colorful settings, and a beautiful patio to eat outside. Their food is reasonably priced; for lunch there is a buffet, and dinner is served a la carte. On this journey, I tried the lunch buffet. They have more than 10 different dishes with a salad bar, rice, nan, a soup of the day and dessert. I tried the Vegetable Pakoras, which have onions, potatoes, and jalapeno fritters, along with rice and nan to top my lunch. There was also Dal Saag, a dish made with lentils and spinach cooked in a light cream sauce; tikka masala, marinated and grilled in a clay oven, in a creamy tomato masala sauce; and Bhuna, cooked with onions and bell peppers in a light masala sauce. Their salad bar is full of healthy choices with sauces for nan dipping, like yogurt cucumber sauce. Soup of the day is always offered as part of Maharajas Indian Cuisine. Usually, they prepare Dal Soup made with yellow lentils. Their dessert section has delicious options like Kheer, which is rice pudding. I chose mango lassi for a sweet yogurt treat. Maharaja was a great experience. The manager of Maharaja said they give a stamp for every visit someone makes to the restaurant. When a person gets seven stamps, they get a free buffet lunch. The food is prepared by a chef who is from India but has also worked as a chef in Orlando, Florida. Page 18 Riddles Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer Angels, stars, and holly leaves, Sleighs and bells, christmas trees, All these symbols of christmas cheer, Leaving only crumbs as they disappear. A single point with branches four, Cold and clear and brightly white, A guiding light still shining bright, Leading three from shore to shore. What once was liquid, now is stone, Clear as glass, and hard as bone. Gold and silver, bronze and brass, Hold a tone none can surpass, Locked high above they call to the town, Of sadness and joy, or a change of the crown. Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 19 Classifieds Looking for Spring classes? Consider these: SOC 210Survey of Physical and Cultural Anthropology. Why are humans the way we are? From the human body to human behavior, anthropology will take you on a journey across time and space to answer this question and more. ENG 121Introduction to Journalism. Interested in seeing your work in The Forum? ENG 121 offers students a chance to learn about journalistic writing and get their work in print. Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information or visit our website : www.piedmontforum.com 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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Managing Editor Antonia Florence Assistant Editor Elise Hansen Staff Writers/Copyeditors Annette Cashatt Riley Clark Melanie Couzzo Claudia Cruz Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Joe Fowler Elise Hansen Owen Krug Gina Leah Bridgette Lively NiaIfe Mukasa Krista C. Petzold Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Arif Michael Vega Kelly Wilmer Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Caroline Morris Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com November 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College The Faces of Charlottesvilles Homelessness Dilemma Owen Krug, Staff Writer Rachel Mayos hands were shaking slightly as she rested against a concrete wall outside of Zocolo. Last March, she and her husband were evicted from their home, and with nowhere else to go, moved to the streets. Mayo stays in Charlottesville because she feels it is the easiest place to be homeless. Everybody takes care of each other, said Mayo about the homeless population in the city. Unfortunately, she is not an anomaly, and this is the reality for many other men and women living on the streets of Charlottesville today. Housing instability currently threatens the lives of nearly 400 Charlottesville residents. According to the Haven, a center for the homeless in Charlottesville, there are an estimated 185 homeless people living on the streets today, 107 who have been placed into stable housing and another 106 at risk of losing their homes. The director of the Haven, Stephen Hitchcock, said there are two types of intervention for the homeless, temporary shelters and permanent housing. Temporary shelters, such as the People come to Charlottesville to get help. Robert Heisten Salvation Army, offer communal rooms with showers and warm beds. Unfortunately, these shelters are often overcrowded, restrictive and inaccessible to many. Possibly the greatest issue is that shelters treat the symptom of homelessness, but never reach the source. Hitchcock feels the solution to homelessness is housing. The goal is to get people off the streets permanently and programs such as Rapid ReHousing are trying to See Homelessness on page 4 In This Issue Photograph courtesy of Jenny Koster. PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Free Speech Week -pg. 7 Casnio Night Profile Comics Classifieds -pgs. 12-13 -pg. 21 -pgs. 22-23 -pg.24 DATES TO REMEMBER Internship Week Activities Nov. 2-5, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. North Mall Meeting Room Veterans Day Celebration Nov. 11, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. North Mall Meeting Room How to Have an Adventure by David Tatman Nov. 11, 12-1 p.m. Main Building, M229 One Mic Stand Nov. 12, 7 p.m. Dickinson Building Veterans Story Theatre Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Red Crooked Sky Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building RAD Bake Sale Nov. 17, 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Bolick Student Center PVCC Education & Career Resources Fair for Adult Learners Nov. 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bolick Student Center One Book Trivia Contest Nov. 18, 11:50 a.m. - 1 p.m. North Mall Meeting Room Gallery Exhibit Opening Reception Nov. 20, 5-7 p.m. Free Movie Friday, Mistress America Nov. 20, 7 p.m. Dickinson Building RAD Bake Sale Nov. 26, 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Bolick Student Center PVCC Chorus Fall Concert Nov. 27, 3 p.m. Dickinson Building Rocky Horror Show Dec. 3-5, 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Inside this Issue Antonia Florence, Editor It has certainly been a busy month here at PVCC. Annette Cashatt rode along with Officer Sheridan of the Albemarle County Police Department. During their four-hour ride-along, they discussed what it takes to become a member of the law enforcement community. Find out how Henrietta Lacks' cells changed the face of modern medicine. Joseph Fowler writes about connecting with The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by participating in a DNA extraction exercise which celebrated this semesters One Book Project. If you are looking for a place to grab a quick bite while you peruse the internet, Antonia Florence reviewed a restaurant less than two miles off campus. Fowler covered the Free Speech Mobile Monument. Politics Professor Connie Jorgensen explained that donations to the Thomas Jefferson Center funded the monument, costing the school nothing. Our freedom was free. Claudia Cruz reports how PVCC stacked up in the region for supporting Toys for Tots. The Salvation Army has been instrumental in making Christmas mornings a happy memory for disadvantaged children. In case you have not heard, class registration is open for spring semester. Take this opportunity to secure your first choice. This may be a great time to look at your degree progression and make an appointment with an advisor to ascertain continued success. Remember, you are in control of your destiny. Page 2 Student Government Association News My name is Forrest Patrick. I am serving as the Director of Public Relations for PVCCs Student Government Association. My job is to work with the SGA to help get the word out about what we are doing. I have been working closely with the director of events and director of student voice to help spread the news about the SGA. We recently had our annual Casino Night event. You may have seen the posters around campus. It was a ton of fun, and if you missed it, do not worry. We are going to have more events coming up soon that you will be able to attend. We understand that everyone has something going on and cannot always be involved, so we want to work with the student body to hear what you have on your mind. The public relations department will be putting out fliers letting everyone know the dates of our meetings and events. We will also be doing student polling soon to see exactly what the students want done. SGA Director of Public We look forward Relations to hearing from you. Forrest Patrick Remember to check for fliers on the SGA Board for updates. The meetings are open to the general public. Feel free to stop by or leave a comment in the suggestion box near the entrance of the 100 wing. Chester Leaps in and Stands Out Kelly Wilmer, Staff Writer The Charlottesville Municipal band rung in their 93rd season on Sunday Oct. 18 at their seventh annual fall concert. The concert was held in the theater of the V. Earl Dickinson building at PVCC. The theater almost reached its maximum capacity as it was flooded with people from the Charlottesville community coming in by the busload. Attendees were eager to watch the 80plus volunteer members of the band perform for this event. Stephen R. Layman, conductor of the Charlottesville Municipal band, and guest conductor William Posey, JMU School of Music staff member, led the band through 11 different compositions. One composition, conducted by Layman, stood out from the rest: Chester Leaps In by composer Steven Bryant. Layman introduced the piece by telling the audience it was a rendition of the revolutionary war anthem Chester, by William Billings. A short excerpt from the anthem was then played over the speakers in the Dickinson theater so audience members could hear the original. After it was played, Layman stated, I can bet you have never heard Chester like this. The audience then heard trumpets howling out of tune and string instruments violently whaling sharp notes throughout the piece. Confusion seemed to be painted on every face until normalcy returned with Opening Night On Broadway by Michael Brown. According to Bryants website, Chester Leaps In is intended as a humorous, cartoonish piece, constructed from the juxtaposition of two divergent musical ideas: a chromatic, angular melodic motive, repeatedly interrupted by the harmonic simplicity of William Billings wellknown hymn tune, Chester. Layman said he chose the piece To shake them [The Charlottesville Municipal Band] up a bit, to wake them up mentally. He later went on to explain that the piece was far different than what the band usually plays, and it was to get them out of their comfort zone into something new. Page 3 Homelessness, continued from page 1 accomplish this. Since April 2015, the program has placed 50 individuals into permanent homes. The screening process assesses applicants based on their medical vulnerability and assigns them a risk level according to the severity of their condition. In the end, the more vulnerable people are, the more opportunities they have for help. Despite its many successes, hundreds of men and women are left on the street because they are not a high enough risk. Robert Heisten, 45, of Luray, VA, has been homeless for 21 months and applied for housing numerous times. When asked why he came to Charlottesville, Heisten said, People come to Charlottesville to get help. Charlottesville is widely recognized for its efforts to improve the living conditions of the homeless. The city offers a host of opportunities, and at its epicenter, is the Haven. The Haven is not an overnight shelter. It is considered a Low Barrier Day Shelter, meaning they do not screen for drugs or breathalyze people coming in, which is a practice that deters many homeless from staying in shelters. The Haven offers services such as shower and laundry facilities, internet access, and a place to store belongings and receive mail. It also serves Photography by Owen Krug as the hub for many of the homeless programs and services in the Charlottesville area. Organizations such as the Thomas Jefferson Area Coalition for the Homeless (TJAC) have offices in the building. TJAC provides many crucial services, one of which is the Annual Point and Time Count. This survey provides the statistical facts of homelessness in Charlottesville. Educational level is one statistic collected by TJAC to determine demographics of the homeless population. According to TJAC, approximately 24% do not have a high school education, 30% have a high school diploma or GED, 34% have some college experience, and 12% have a bachelor's degree or more. James, a 58 year-old Charlottesville native, has a bachelor's degree in Social Sciences from the University of Albany and has his own apartment. When asked why he sits on street corners asking for money, James said, I love meeting people. Walking by James, one would never know his actual situation. That is true for many homeless seen on sidewalks, at intersections or on the Downtown Mall. The homeless situation in Charlottesville is a serious issue and requires a tremendous amount of work to alleviate. Thankfully, there are many men and women who dedicate their lives to the improvement of those living on the streets. One such individual is Hitchcock. Hitchcock knows the homeless situation in Charlottesville as well as any. Though faced with a herculean task, he remains optimistic. Hitchcock said, Cville feels like it has a large homeless situation because its visible, but, in reality, 185 is a number we can handle. Page 4 Do You Know Your Rights? Joe Fowler, Staff Writer Non-partisanship reigned supreme on Oct. 5 as Radio IQ host Doug Smith, vice president of the Montpelier Foundation, and Professor Stuart Harris celebrated a belated Constitution Day with students and faculty of PVCC. Smith and Harris gave a highly informative and interactive presentation while addressing everything from freedom of expression during the Vietnam War to the power the Supreme Court currently possesses to pass laws with only five votes during times of congressional gridlock. In an interview several days before the event, Assistant Professor Connie Jorgensen spoke about the event and its importance to the student body. How many people have actually read the Constitution? she asked, emphasizing the need for greater awareness of the Constitution and its role in American life. About 28 percent of Americans have read the Constitution according to a nationwide survey conducted by the Center for the Constitution in 2010. Enter Constitution Day, a holiday celebrated on Sept. 17 of each year to commemorate the creation of the Constitution on the same day in 1787. Federal law mandates that all public education systems acknowledge Constitution Day. However, given the often-humorous approach of Smith and Harris, the event hardly felt like a requirement. Students, faculty and the speakers shared in several moments of laughter even while discussing various academic points. The first of such points explained why James Madison, often called the Father of the Constitution, saw the need for the Constitution over the pre-existing Articles of Confederation, something often taught in a more mundane fashion in American History classes. Perhaps the best part of the Constitution Day celebration was audience participation. Smith and Harris invited audience members to participate in various quizzes involving the Constitution and the case law behind it. The speakers awarded participants prizes ranging from pocket versions of the Constitution to key chains and t-shirts related to their radio show, The Weekly Constitutional, which airs on Radio IQ at 5 p.m. on Sundays. None other than Frank Friedman, the PVCC president, took part in one of the quizzes. Given three possible answers to choose from in a scenario where constitutional law was in question, President Friedman gave what Stuart and Smith called the best possible answer. After calling for a round of applause for President Friedman, the speakers revealed the correct answer to the audience. The answer was, I dont know. Stuart then explained that sometimes a hard and fast rule proves elusive. Several of these cases still float through various levels of the judicial system. The Constitution Day speakers event demonstrated the importance of the Constitution to all Americans, which fulfilled a desire that Jorgensen emphasized in her interview. Its great for students to learn about what the Constitution means and what it means to them. Students who want to learn more can access the Constitution for free with apps on both Android and Apple operating systems. Page 5 Stop Whispering Joe Fowler, Staff Writer A monument in tribute to free speech week stood in the parking lot of our school from Oct. 19 through Oct. 23. The writing on the wall said many things throughout the week. Arguably the most important fact about the monument consisted of the fact that someone wrote on the wall every day. Connie Jorgensen, assistant professor of political science, explained how the mobile monument idea started in an email exchange. The Executive Director of the Charlottesvillebased Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression, Josh Wheeler and I were having coffee one day about a different topic and the idea of having the Mobile Monument on campus came up, and we started making plans, she said. Jorgensen explained that donations to the Thomas Jefferson Center funded the monument, costing the school nothing. Our freedom was free. Students wrote on the outside of the monument. On the inside, posters stating various statistics on the first amendment hung on the walls. One poster contained a startling fact. The poster explained the various rights granted by the first amendment. Photography by Joe Fowler Sadly, awareness of one right in particular appeared far lower than the other rights, that of the people to petition the government. According to a poster inside the monument, the right to petition is the least understood aspect of our first amendment rights. When asked about the right of the people to Photography by Joe Fowler petition, Jorgensen said, Individuals can make change - I've seen it. Unfortunately, because of apathy, a feeling of impotence, laziness, or some other reason, too many Americans don't take advantage of our rights. This harsh truth does not apply to the whole of America. One website in particular, change.org, makes starting petitions easier than ever. The sign-up process on the site consists of entering ones name, an email address and a password. During free speech week, students could see this process in action simply by walking past the student center where several students petitioned for the naming of a state rock in Virginia. For information on what qualifies as a violation of first amendment rights, tjcenter.org has an entertaining awards section called The Jefferson Muzzles. The Thomas Jefferson Center hands out these awards each year to those who have violated the first amendment rights of citizens. Sadly, not every tyrant wins an award, but the site does explain why: there are too many of them. Though many dare to infringe upon our rights, Jorgensen stated that she believed our leaders hear us, but because of problems with the system, our voices are not as loud. One solution to this dilemma is for citizens to speak up more often. The first amendment grants citizens freedom of speech on a daily basis. Americans can speak just as loudly any day of the year. Page 6 Petition to Make Nelsonite the State Rock NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer Forty-five states in America have an official state rock; Virginia is not one of them. Professor Larry Tiezzi thinks it is time to change that. Tiezzi teaches Honors Historical Geology and according to one of his students, Teshawna Quarles, Tiezzi decided to work with Assistant Professor Connie Jorgensen to petition to make the Nelson rock Virginias official state rock. A few students from Tiezzis honors class, including Quarles and some from Jorgensens political science class are involved in this project. The rock they are petitioning for is the Nelsonite, named for Nelson County, VA. The petition efforts started the week of Oct. 19. It started in the testing center and moved to a table in the Bolick Center. Many students did not know what the project is about and what a Nelsonite rock is, so Quarles was happy shed light on the subject: What is the Nelsonite? Its a rock that has some historical significance to Virginia. It used to be mined for titanium. Its type locality is Nelson County, Virginia. What does type locality mean? Basically its where the rock is originally found. What does the rock look like? Its a black and white speckled rock. It looks really pretty. Why is there a push for naming the Nelson Rock as the state rock for VA? Its supported by the Virginia State Geologists. Our state, Virginia, is one of five states that has no state rock. Why is it important to you that VA has a state rock? I just love the idea that there is a rock out there called Nelsonite which is in an area that people outside of Virginia and Nelson County know of. Who is involved with this project? Theres our two professors, Jorgensen and Tiezzi. Four students from the geology side and four students from the political science side. We called ourselves Students for Nelsonite. How many signatures are you aiming for? Were aiming for 2600. Free Speech Week at PVCC Kelly Wilmer, Staff Writer To kick off free speech week at Piedmont Virginia Community College, Connie Jorgensen, assistant professor of political science, booked Joshua Wheeler to give his speech Heritage or Hate: Free Speech and the Confederate Flag in room 229 on Monday, Oct. 19. Wheeler is the executive director of The Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression. According to the centers website, The Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression is a unique organization devoted solely to the defense of free expression in all its formsSince its founding in 1990, the Center has fulfilled its mission through a wide range of programs in education and the arts, and active participation in judicial and legislative matters involving free expression. Jorgensen said, I invited Mr. Wheeler to speak because of the important work they do at The Thomas Jefferson Center. Free speech is the most important civil liberty we have and I think its important that students are exposed to discussions about the issue. He explained what the first amendment meant and how it related to the Confederate Flag and the controversy over the connotation of the flag. He argued that the flag was both a sign of heritage and hate. However, the government does not have a right to tell the people they cannot fly the flag because it is a right granted to the people through the first amendment--even though some people find the flag offensive and racist. Theres a difference in saying you ought not say something and saying you cant say it, Wheeler said. The speech lasted 45 minutes, with 15 minutes for questions from the audience at the end. Page 7 Travel Opportunities at PVCC Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Immerse yourself in beauty, history and adventure. PVCC is partnering with Educational First College Tours to offer an amazing 11-day trip to Spain this spring. Join Professor Grajales Daz to discover the Moorish wonders of Andaluca, the architecture of Barcelona, the mediaeval city of Toledo and the fascinating modern Madrid. They will tour Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Costa del Sol, Seville, Madrid, and Toledo, along with two options, Lisbon and Morocco. The trips itinerary includes both guided and walking tours of Spains oldest cathedrals and palaces, historic neighborhoods, famous landmarks and more. The cost is $3,115 per person, and it includes round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, on-tour transportation, regional -style meals and more. For more information, email Jorge Grajales Daz, professor of Spanish. Jgrajalesdiaz@pvcc.edu A 12-day tour to Japan will be departing May 20, 2016. PVCCs Instructor of Japanese, Noriko Donahue will lead this tour through Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka. There will be an exploration of Japans unique blend of tradition and modernity from ancient temples and shrines to contemporary pop culture and innovative businesses. The cost is $4,949 per person, and the trip is open to anyone including students, faculty, staff and the public. For more information about this tour, please reference www.efcollegestudytours.com trip #1786178UJ or contact Professor Donohue, ndonahue@pvcc.edu. Remember to keep your eyes open for these and other travel opportunities being offered through PVCC and its affiliates. Advertising posters will be displayed throughout campus. These trips are great upcoming holiday seasonal and graduation gift ideas. Payment plans are available. Page 8 Humane Perspective On Iran Nuclear Deal NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer Slideshow photos of majestic scenery marked the introduction to the lecture on Iran and the Middle East given Oct. 14. Professor William Harrop opened with a story about a missionary who traveled to Iran during a revolutionary period in the countrys history. Immediately, it was apparent that this lecture would not follow the tenor of stereotypes about Iran. The diversity of the country is so extraordinary...Just as Iran is tremendously varied in its physical experience, its perhaps not unlike the United States in being so widely varied in its experience, Harrop said. The theme of the lecture was a unique blend of humanitarianism and politics. Harrop studied Iran for more than 30 years and co-authored the book The Iranians: Persian, Islam and the Struggle for the Soul of the Nation. Though the topic was the Iran Nuclear Deal, the emphasis was on recognizing the need for better relations between the U.S. and Iran. He used political history from both sides to support the idea that the Iran Nuclear Deal is a positive accomplishment with potential to at least ease tensions between the two countries. The presentation was stimulating, and Harrop had an attentive audience. Harrop passionately addressed issues that most news agencies have avoided discussing. He encouraged the audience to consider Iran as a nation of individuals rather than a government to be treated with utmost suspicion. He did not negate historical facts, such as the hostage crisis of 1979, upon which the American governments suspicions are justly founded, but he included that bit of history that provides Iran with grounds for distrusting the U.S. One example Harrop mentioned was U.S. and British intelligence agencies interfering with the Iranian government to maintain their control over Irans oil market. Here, Harrop accomplished an amazing feat. With a full scope of facts, the perspective is taken beyond the Iranian government to the individuals who have more in common with Americans than many may have guessed. He pointed out the fact that Iran, like the U.S., is the result of many revolutions, a peoples desire for a better life and fair government The auditorium was nearly full with a mixture of students, staff and guests. Doubtless, many present had heard about the Iran Nuclear Deal, and were eager to learn the implications it might have. A few present, however, had only a vague idea on the subject and alternative motives for attending. One student admitted, I went only because of the extra credit. Bridget Klauer did not follow the development of the deal but said she was interested in it after attending the lecture. I had no idea what it entailed, about nuclear weapons, she said. After attending the lecture, Klauer now intends to learn more about Iran and U.S. relations. Assistant Professor Connie Jorgensen said she thought Harrop did a great job: It was nice to hear someone give an explanation that provided a lot of context. Jorgensen admitted that she had not thought about how much Americans have in common with Iranians, thats something I learned...we have more in common than we have differences. Others were not as optimistic. Spanish Professor Christopher Decker reflects this view. When asked if the lecture left him hopeful of peaceful relations between the U.S. and Iran, he wrote Not immediately; there were slightly sinister implications that Syria is drawing everyone into a global confrontation in response to an email. Decker did go on to write that the deal was a major step forward. This lecture highlighted PVCCs commitment to providing its students with opportunities to learn more about the world on a geopolitical level. Thus students are equipped to offer useful insight and practical resolutions when addressing issues on a local level. Lectures like Harrops encourage students to learn all the facts and be willing to look at issues from different perspectives. With these skills, PVCC produces better thinkers for a better world. Page 9 Riding Along with Albemarle County Police Annette Cashatt, Staff Writer If you are not inspired after spending time with Officer Sheridan, then you are not paying attention. Officer Sheridan has been a police officer for five years. He started in the Gang and Narcotics Division and then moved into patrolling with the Albemarle County Police Department. But one thing he has not moved away from is his passion for law enforcement. "I find a weakness and strengthen it. I don't let it be a weakness for long," Sheridan explained to me during our four hour ride-along. That is only one piece of advice he offered to PVCC students interested in a career within law enforcement. The day we started our ridealong was on the eve of Hurricane Joaquin. While the skies poured down rain and Photography by submerged some Annette Cashatt Charlottesville parking lots underneath a steady funnel of water, a small fleet of officers was out in force to assist with numerous car accidents. Silence was often broken by the buzzing of the radio, dispatching still other officers to respond to burglar alarms, domestic disputes, or any variety of incidents. Sheridan has plenty of wisdom to share with PVCC students interested in a career in law enforcement. He says that students should not get trapped into believing that education is all they need to get a foot in the door. The necessary education is only the minimum that a police department looks for. Volunteer work in the community, assisting with the reserve police force, and doing ride-alongs on a regular basis are all good ways to build up your resume. During his time in college, Sheridan would go to bookstores and read case-laws, volunteer to coach sports, and keep up-to-date on trends in law enforcement. When he moved into patrol work, he took extra classes on how to best patrol and took steps to strengthen his writing skills so he could excel. PVCC students can take note of this when they consider the many career avenues that exist within law enforcement. For instance, those who work the radio to dispatch each call are also an incremental facet of law enforcement. Sheridan explained that dispatchers must multi-task and juggle several different tasks concurrently. For instance, they have to respond to officers requests for information while simultaneously receive calls from the public, send out patrol requests, and give directions. That is just one part of the law enforcement team; other avenues PVCC students can pursue include various types of detectives, the FBI, drug enforcement, and more. One thing Albemarle County has done to promote safety and relationships between the community and officers is utilize geopolicing. Geopolicing breaks the areas police officers work into sectors. Then patrol officers, like Sheridan, patrol their specific sectors. This allows them to build relationships over time with the citizens in their sectors, leading to stronger ties within the community and a better crime-prevention rate. Police work may be rewarding, but is also dangerous. Contrary to that community spirit at the core of police work is the number of officer deaths. According to the non-profit Officer's Down Memorial, there have been 98 officer deaths this year. The sacrifices officers make should be acknowledged while considering this profession. The message is clear: do not become complacent but be passionate if you pursue this (or any) career. At its core, policing is essentially caring for humanity and making a positive mark on the world; apathy ruins that compassion. This is the realization I discovered while talking to Officer Sheridan and witnessing him and his fellow officers work together to help citizens throughout the storm. Page 10 Cville Rallies Highlight Climate Change Arif Michael Vega, Staff Writer County pipeline was heavily criticized. These protests come at a time of Around 200 concerned citizens rallied in environmental crisis. Climate change is downtown Charlottesville to discuss climate accelerating beyond human involvement, change on Oct. 14. Protesters carried no according to Dr. Phillip Rasch, chief scientist for pipeline signs. Handheld wind turbines spun Climate Science at Pacific Northwest National above the crowd signaling support of renewable Labs, a Department Of Energy laboratory. Rasch energy. Speakers from environmental groups speaks on a multitude of issues that accelerate such as Wild Virginia and 350.org, as well as climate change, including melting snow, forest UVA professors fires, gasified and other methane and pest community migration. members, told Rasch stories and talked acknowledges a about the minority of climate economics change deniers of two relevant to their to four percent. His concerns. laboratory takes them The event, seriously and coordinated by explores their theories Hannah Wiegard with the same vigor of Appalachian as any others. Voices, was held In the end, he in tandem with a argues that the global call to evidence for human action influence affecting commemorating climate change is the massive 2014 overwhelming. marches in New Besides, he argues, York and around You can probably the globe. The get in your car and rallies also come not wear a seatbelt in anticipation of and drive around and the 2015 global be safe. But you summit on wouldnt. climate change in An after-party was Paris this winter. held at Firefly, on Photography by Arif Michael Vega Among the Meade Avenue, later other cities in the evening. involved in the Organizers and action that day were New York City, Seattle, protesters met to socialize and network for future Miami and Denver. Protested issues were the use actions. Tentative plans emerged for actions of fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil. coinciding with the Paris summit and the Emphasis was on increasing investment in environmental group Sierra Clubs actions both renewable energy. In Charlottesville, the Nelson inside and outside the official proceedings. Page 11 PVCC Wins with Casino Night Elise Hansen, Staff Writer Cheshire cats, Jedi knights, wood spirits, and the undead roamed the halls of PVCCs Main Building on the evening of Oct. 23. Some played blackjack or Texas Holdem, others munched on free wings and mini Snickers bars, still others took group photos and chatted over the pulsing beat of top-hits music. The occasion that brought such creatures from their usual haunts? PVCCs sixth annual Casino Night, sponsored by the Student Government Association. Card tables were the focal point of the evening. Students received $60,000 in fake cash upon arrival that they could exchange for poker chips at the game tables. Blackjack was a popular choice; the eight professional-grade tables were filled almost all night. Other students tried their luck at Texas Holdem, Roulette, and Craps. My favorite game is the roulette, said student Megan Landis at the event. The zombie prom queen was enthusiastic about the evening: Its a lot of fun. I think Im coming back next year. Students also enjoyed an oxygen bar, which featured different vials of scents that could be mixed and matched to taste, and a group photo area to capture memories of a fun night. Costume choices ranged from low-key cowgirls to elaborate dead maid get-ups, Disney witches, sports heroes, and 20s flappers. At the end of the evening, three were singled out for an award. A fireman, a woodland spirit, and a Jedi knight each received a prize for their creativity. Caroline Morns, winner of the second-place prize, had draped herself in a flowing woodland spirit gown that she made herself. I had deer antlers laying around, and I wanted to do something with them, she explained. So she made them part of a headpiece that was wound through with a garland of leaves. The evening culminated in a raffle. Students bought tickets with their winnings from the card tables, then waited eagerly in for the prizes to be announced. A buzz of anticipation filled the room Page 12 as SGA Vice President Nina Matkava spun the golden cage of tickets to select the winning participants. Numerous lucky winners emerged with prizes. Many local restaurants had been generous with their donations, providing gift cards that ranged from $10 to $25. Other prizes included headphone sets and a community grab bag with tea, books, and other souvenirs from the area. The longawaited grand prizes were Kindle Fire HDs, which went to Donnie Wilson, dressed as a football player, and Patrick Cottrell, who sported a cowboy get-up. Overall, the evening was a great success, said SGA President Camron Perry. Personally, he said, the Halloween decorations that peered from every wall and corner were a highlight. [It] was honestly the best experience to see the transformation that was created by the SGA. The whole event ran smoothly thanks to numerous hours of planning and collaboration among SGA officers and members, student clubs and volunteers. It was a really valuable effort from all the members, said Perry. The teamwork was greata lot of friendships were made from working on the event. Eve Nicholson, attired as a 20s flapper, agreed that the evening was one to appreciate and remember. Id come back, she said. Photography by Caroline Morris Page 13 A Tale of Immortal Cells Joe Fowler, Staff Writer Approximately a dozen students participated in a DNA extraction event on Thursday, Oct. 1 in the Betty Sue Jessup Library. The event was part the One Book Project. This semesters One Book selection, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, speaks of an anomaly regarding the cells of Henrietta Lacks, a woman who died of cervical cancer in 1951. The irregularity consisted of her cells, along with her DNA, replicating and thriving for decades after her death. Henrietta Lacks' cells changed the face of modern medicine and will continue to improve our knowledge of medicine and to provide therapies and cures for many conditions that plague the human race. This fact is amazing in itself, but the book goes beyond this to reveal a human dimension that is both poignant and inspiring, said Laura Skinner, the PVCC Reference and Instruction Librarian. Skinner played a key role in organizing the DNA extraction event to celebrate this semesters One Book Project. Laura Bowden, a reference employee in the library, explained the extraction process with both a verbal walkthrough, a handout and a video from PBS. Bowden explained the process and the lab precautions, after which Skinner, Bowden and Students left with stands of their DNA Photography by Joe Fowler Students looking for stands of their DNA Photography by Joe Fowler Assistant Professor of English Tamara Whyte handed out vinyl gloves and goggles for the students. Bowden explained the importance of the safety gear. She followed the precautions by also stating, Some of the materials will go in your mouths. That particular material wound up being salt water. Bowden expressly warned against drinking any of the isopropyl alcohol. The riskier materials came into play after the DNA had left the bodies. Part of the process involved soap, rubbing alcohol and food coloring after the DNA extraction. Students extracted the initial DNA by swishing salt water in their mouths for a minute and then spitting it out into cups. The other materials proved useful in separating the actual DNA strands from the salt water solution. Skinner, Whyte and Bowden walked students through the entire process in a light-hearted manner that echoed the overall feel of the event. The entire process took around an hour, but with such warm atmosphere, few of the participants appeared to be in any hurry to leave. This highly anticipated event lasted well into another hour. Students left with DNA in hand and smiles on their faces. Page 14 Art and Activism at Kluge-Ruhe Arif Michael Vega, Staff Writer The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia was largely empty on Oct. 22. Most of the staff was travelling, leaving a skeleton crew of PVCC faculty and alumni to staff the facility. Visitors were greeted by PVCC student Angela Bell, who directed them to appropriate galleries and assured them that no one would get lost in the maze of interconnecting rooms and halls. Activism seems to be a recurring theme at the museum on Pantops Mountain. The works are offered to western cultures in order to shed light on the complexity of an oppressed indigenous culture. I think, particularly the young artists, they are trying to really establish their identity, and they are trying to be a voice for their people, said PVCC professor and Kluge-Ruhe Museum Educator Fenella Belle. As for the intention of the institution, she said, The mission is to bring awareness about Australian aboriginal art and culture. Several galleries and installations were on display to the public. Art and Country is a collection from various artists that explores the depth of aboriginal spirituality and connection to ancestral lands. Where the water moves, where it rests is a collection from Djambawe Marawili, AM, an aboriginal artist-activist who ran a series of successful campaigns for aboriginal rights in Australia. Marawilis work will be on display through Dec. 20. Art and Country will remain until the summer of 2016. Marawili will be visiting Charlottesville Oct. 24 to Nov. 6 to give a series of talks on aboriginal art and culture in order to shed light on indigenous issues. Museum director Margo Smith will be receiving the prestigious Order of Australia award during the visit. Belle described the award: They very rarely give it to a non-Australian. You are being honored for your contribution to Australian society. The paintings and photographs throughout the building represent a series of stories relating events that shaped the world as we know it. A pantheon comprised of crocodiles, serpents and other animals considered the ancestors of the aboriginal people warn youths of unsafe practices, places and intentions. These ceremonial stories, generally drawn in sand, cave walls and eucalyptus bark are largely temporary. Patterns are passed down through generations by practice, with elders training the youth as they mature. The more permanent cave paintings are considered sacred spaces and are largely unavailable to the uninitiated. Some paintings are considered taboo for different groups, such as men or women. These traditional works are censored by the artist before being made available to outside culture. The Kluge-Ruhe is easily accessible by both car and public transportation. Other installations and activities include contemporary aboriginal installations, video interviews, inspirational art prompts, pan-global indigenous collaborations and a library of indigenous studies. In the summers, the Kluge-Ruhe hosts monthly picnics on the western lawn. Page 15 Toys for Tots Celebrates PVCC Claudia Cruz, Staff Writer This year has been a successful year for Toys for Tots. Piedmont Virginia Community College was nominated second in the region out of 125 communities. The Student Government Association (SGA), Veterans Club, and Black Student Association got together to collect and distribute toys for children in need for Christmas this year. The U.S. Marines gave the school an award on Oct. 14. The Toys for Tots Foundation wanted to thank PVCC clubs and students on 67th annual Toys for Tots campaign for all the toys and joy that children in central Virginia will have on Christmas. The event was held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and started with an award ceremony honoring the local Toys for Tots Coordinator, Angie Jefferson. Jefferson made our community the number one elected for this campaign out of 125 communities in Region 2. The award was given as an Annual SGA/ Community Service Award. Then the Toys for Tots coordinator gave the Veterans Club boxes to proceed collecting toys for this years campaign here at PVCC. Toys for Tots only accepts unwrapped toys for children. At the award ceremony, the BSA served free food for Healthy Food Day in the North Meeting room. They provided chicken stir fry; they had rice and stir fry veggies, burgers, and sweet tea. The BSA President Ralph Brown said, There is free food for as many students and guests that come through until it is all gone. Photography by Claudia Cruz First Run, Last Resort? NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer Want a meal that will keep you and your wallet healthy? First Run may not be the first place to consider. Yes, there are a variety of salads and wraps offered in PVCCs caf, but the prices hardly seem worth it. I was a little surprised to learn that a salad from First Run is about $6, especially when there are better salads in Charlottesville for less. To be fair, First Run is a simple college caf attempting to cater to the various taste buds of hungry students in the most convenient way possible. That convenience, however, can cost more than students desire to pay, especially if they want healthier options. For those who prefer a healthy meal at a reasonable price, there are quite a few options, depending on how far you want to go. Wendys offers a plethora of satisfying salads starting at $3.99. With choices between half-sized and whole salads, you do not have to purchase more salad than you need. If Wendys does not tempt your taste buds, Trader Joes could be your health food paradise. There is a lot to choose from, but the salads alone will give you much to consider. According to Bryan, a Trader Joes employee, there are about twenty-five salads to choose from. For $3.99 (plus tax), you can get the spicy Thai-style pasta salad with chicken breast, the lemon chicken and arugula salad with Israeli couscous, or the meatless edamame and kale salad just to name a few. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you actually have time and gas for, but it is nice to at least know there are better, cheaper options. Page 16 E-Cigarettes: The New Debate Joe Fowler, Staff Writer E-cigarettes, or vapes, arrived on the market in 2004, bringing with them a new aspect of the debate on the addictive nature of nicotine and nicotine products. While opponents maintain that many of the same issues arise with or without the same amount of chemicals, proponents of vapes speak highly of a smoke free alternative to cigarettes. I felt vapes were a lot healthier than inhaling thousands of chemicals in cigarette smoke, said Chris Dumitru, who switched from traditional cigarettes to vapes over a year ago. Initially, he wanted to switch to lower the cost of his nicotine addiction and cease smelling like smoke. Dimitru reported having an increase in endurance while playing sports, He attributes this to inhaling vapor over the arguably unhealthier cigarette smoke. A recent article from WebMD written by R. Morgan Griffin and reviewed by Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, agrees with some of Dumitrus reasoning. The article contains the perspective of Michael Siegel, MD, who researches methods of tobacco control, according to his profile at the Boston University School of Health. Siegel concedes that ecigarettes sound a bit better than smoking traditional Photography by Elise Hansen cigarettes, and at one point he compared ecigarettes to heroin addicts using methadone for detox. The WebMD article also presents the views of vape opponents. One of the more popular arguments against e-cigarettes focuses on how the trend could offset attempts to promote smoking cessation or the idea of not smoking at all. Perhaps the strongest arguments for federal regulation consists of the fact that e-cigarette flavors range from tobacco to candy flavors, which appeal to children. They are also practically odorless. This presents the problem of children using e-cigarettes without their parents noticing. Dimitru seemed displeased when presented with this argument. All the shops I go to in Charlottesville always card me, he said. He did concede that not every shop shares the same degree of responsibility. More arguments exist on both side of the debate. In the decade since e-cigarettes first became available to the public, clear lines have been drawn by both proponents and opponents of the devices. Though the line appears clear, the answers are not. Experts are still conducting research on longterm effects on the users, the environment and secondhand vapor exposure. No one truly knows at this time whether the benefits outweigh the risks. Page 17 The Charlottesville City Market Kelly Wilmer, Staff Writer Photography by Kelly Wilmer Over 4,000 locals gather every Saturday to the community event known as the City Market. When attending the market, people are greeted with the smiles of fellow citizens and local vendors. They can grab a cup of coffee at the Mudhouse stand while mingling with friends and neighbors on a nice Saturday morning. Vendors are more than happy to tell customers what their products are composed of. Stacy Miller, local business owner of Good Phyte Foods, tells her customers that she uses local produce and organic seeds in her yummy treats. Her products are healthy alternatives to cookies and candy bars. People can also talk to the farmers at their produce stands and ask them about the growing process. City local Sophie Dupont goes to the market for this exact reason. Dupont stated, I can ask the farmer what he does to the produce; that way, she knows exactly what shes buying. The City Market has over 100 vendors. At the market, people can find more than just food: there are arts, crafts, music and more, all from businesses and artists within the community. City Market Co-Manager Stephanie AndereggMaloy said When you buy here, you build our community. The City Market is located in downtown Charlottesville at the corner of Water Street and 2nd Street. It runs on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon from the spring through the fall, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in November and December. Page 18 Foxs Caf Serves Delicious Pie Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Foxs Caf sits at the corner of 403 Avon Street and Levy Avenue in Belmont. It is less than two miles from campus. For years, I drove past it without ever giving it any thought. Last spring, I witnessed an older couple drive into Foxs empty parking lot and arduously disembark. Midway through the process, a chipper waitress came outside, greeted them, and assured them that they were not too late for lunch. After the couple refused her help, they gave the waitress their order, and she went back inside. They soon followed. They arrived at closing time, yet they were welcomed. This fall, I met the owners daughter, Lyndsey. Once again, my interest in the caf was piqued. I have never been an adventurous eater nor trusting when it comes to kitchen hygiene, so I asked several people for their opinion of the caf, They all had favorable comments, and most mentioned the homemade pies. I was ready to try Foxs Caf. Approaching the door, I inhaled deeply but never caught that greasy-spoon odor which usually hangs thick in the air, just the aroma of breakfast foods. I was greeted with cheerful good mornings from the staff. The floor and open kitchen were clean and orderly. I chose a corner table where I had a view of the L-shaped dining area. At the counter, a few regular patrons were finishing breakfast. Two of the stools had plaques on their backs where their late occupants names had been inscribed. And, of course, foxes of all kinds were everywhere. My dining companion started her morning with a large glass of orange juice and then opted for the special of creamed chipped beef on toast and eggs. She was surprised that it was so meaty and tender. This earned two thumbs up. I tried a slice of two pies. Their coconut pie with a twist surprised me. The crust was light, flakey and golden. The creamy custard with its fresh coconut left me wondering if we use the same recipe. It was presented with a top layer of golden brown meringue. I am not fond of meringue but found it to be a nice accompaniment to the custard. The freshly peeled and sliced apples held their shape nicely as they baked in a crust that absorbed their flavor. This was not a sweet, juicy pie but more like Photography by the ones our Antonia Florence grandmothers might have made from scratch. It was yummy. The prices are reasonable. Along with our meals, we each had bottomless hot coffee which was surprisingly good. Each of our orders were six dollars and change plus tip. What a bargain. The owner, Diane Fox, explained that the caf was started in 1995 when her daughter, Lyndsey, was only three years old. She would play and take her naps near the kitchen area. Business went on as usual. The building was built in the early 60s and opened as The Burger House. It was one of three that the Templeton brothers owned in the city at that time. My second visit yielded the same warm welcome, cleanliness and fast, personable service. My house salad was fresh, crisp and ample enough to be a meal. It contained a variety of lettuces, along with tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Cheese was on the side. My dessert was a piece of apple pie which sported a lovely flakey crust with juicy apples tumbling from under it. The pie was awesome with coffee. My cost for lunch was close to $7. Their menu is chocked full of offerings such as pork chops, pulled pork barbeque, or hamburger steak with two sides, or a Chef salad for approximately $6. There are many hot and cold sandwiches to choose from that range $2-$4. Hours are Monday Thursday 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Friday 6 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Saturday 6 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Page 19 Free Movie Friday: The End of the Tour Elise Hansen, Staff Writer As the lights came on in Dickinson Theater and the credits began to roll, Free Movie Friday audience members turned to each other, eager to discuss the last hour and a half. Jason Segel was really impressive, noted one moviegoer. I hope he gets nominated for an award. [The movies] thoughts on fame apply to so much more than just art and writing books, observed another. My main takeaway was the futility of the current American mindset, which relies on accomplishment and fame for happiness, said attendee Eve Ruotsinja. The film that generated such earnest dialogue? The End of the Tour, a recent drama by director James Ponsoldt. The film stars Jason Segel and Jesse Eisenberg; Segel plays author David Foster Wallace and Eisenberg portrays David Lipsky, a Rolling Stone reporter and aspiring author himself. The film chronicles a time shortly after the publication of Wallaces famous book, Infinite Jest. Lipsky plans to write an article about Wallace for Rolling Stone, and the two embark on a five-day interview at the end of Wallaces book tour. The two men grow close over the course of their time together. They both seek truth, but each also has an agenda, discussing ambition, fame, happiness, and Big Macs. They reveal certain facets of their character and keep others hidden. I liked the cast and the subject matter, said Beryl Solla, art professor and faculty sponsor of the Art Club. Being a creative person can be challenging in a lot of ways. Often people expect success or fame to solve their problems and of course it doesnt. That level of fame is complicated and adds its own problems. I also liked the complex relationship between the two characters. The End of the Tour screening was preceded by three short films from the University of Virginias Community Credit Union. The animated clips were intended to help educate students about personal finance by providing information about credit scores, budgeting and identity theft in a light-hearted and entertaining format. The next Free Movie Friday, scheduled for Nov. 20, will feature Mistress America, a comedy about the adventures of two young women in New York City. From Wounded Knee to Boarding Schools Arif Michael Vega, Staff Writer Dennis Banks came to PVCC on Oct. 26 to speak on his life and actions with the American Indian Movement. Topics ranged from homesteading to the 1973 Siege of Wounded Knee to life at compulsory boarding schools for Native Americans. While waiting for Banks to arrive, local speakers provided stories, speeches and a Q&A for the audience. When Banks arrived, students were encouraged to put away cell phones and notebooks and instead listen from the heart. You will hear what you need to hear, said his sister, Sheila, and you will remember when you need to remember, perhaps a month or even a year from now. Banks is a decorated activist, the co-founder of the American Indian Movement as well as the author of Its a Good Day to Die, an autobiography. Page 20 Piedmont Profile: Krystal Green Elise Hansen, Staff Writer Krystal Green is the driving force behind PVCCs new Pharmacy Technician program: she is the programs director and an associate professor who teaches many of its courses. There are so many different avenues in the Pharmacy Technician field, Green exclaims. She would know; she has tried many of them herself. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, Green worked at Walgreens to experience the retail side of the profession. She then shifted to hospital work at Chippenham Hospital, and later, to the nuclear pharmacy services at Cardinal Health. She also has experience in pharmacy education: she started a Pharmacy Technician program at Virginia College and is now drawing upon that experience to build a similar program here at PVCC. She has ambitious plans for the Pharmacy Technician program and speaks passionately of the opportunities it can provide for students. This is an exciting time to get into the field, she insists. Especially with the evolution of the technical field, the sky is the limit, particularly when it comes to education. She hopes that the Pharmacy Technician program will expose students to as many aspects of the field as possible, while also training them in universal skills such as sterilization techniques and dosage calculations. According to Green, pharmacy education is both practical and rewarding. We want to make sure that what students learn in the classroom, they can do in their jobs, Green explains. Thus, much of the training caters to the roles available at nearby hospitals, and many of the classes are hands-on labs. At the same time, even with a skill like mathematics, I try to let [students] know how critical it is, but also how rewarding it can be. Much like Greens experience of the profession itself, pharmacy education is a challenge, but a rewarding one with a real impact on the people it serves. This combination of technical savvy and relational skills extends to Greens personal life as well. Although she faces a busy work schedule, she also loves travel, trying new restaurants, playing with her dog, Mena, and spending time with people. Be it family, friends, oranyone, really, she said, you learn so much from interacting with other people. Those are the things that are really priceless. Virginia Film Festival Begins Nov. 5 Krista Petzold, Staff Writer The 28th VA Film Festival will be consuming movie lovers of the Charlottesville area from Nov. 5 to Nov. 8. The showcase will feature over 20 new films that will include documentaries, family movies, independent films, and many films about political and cultural change. Tickets are on sale now and have been since Oct. 2. Also people can order tickets over the phone by calling (434) 924-3376, or come by during Monday to Friday from noon to 5 p.m. Ticket prices range between $10-$15. The 28th VA Film Festival is getting ready for another fantastic year and hopes that everyone will take part in the magic of cinema and all the hard work that goes into creating films that start off as hits and soon enough become beloved classics for all to enjoy. Find more information at virginiafilmfestival.org Page 21 Riddles Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer Hard as bone, The winter solid, Coldest winters heart and soul. The start of an act, the third in a play, So try center stage, and that is all I will say. Name a thing, A creature lies still, And sings of cups of hot tea. The rise of dawn, the birth of day, The first to die and the start of decay, The close of a wound, the last thing to mend, The beginning of death and the end of the end. I am the second of the Graces, And the first of all the Races, Over and over, I will close the year, Yet I am kind for I always end fear. Moonlight hard and mirror bright, Lasting past the death of night. Bright as diamond, loud as thunder, Never stills; a thing of wonder. Many fight but in the end, The soldier to the grave they send, Yet their touch can also mend, Despite this few see in them a friend. Page 22 The Horror Story Contest winner Annette Couch-Jareb read her story at the Candy-thon and Horry Story Read-a-thon on Oct. 28. Photographs courtesy of Jenny Koster. Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 23 Classifieds Sock Drive for the Homeless Nov. 3 - Nov. 20 The Forum is sponsoring a sock drive to help warm the feet of the homeless this winter. We hope to collect as many pairs of new socks as possible! Socks will be delivered to The Haven at the conclusion of the drive to be distributed to those who need them. Please bring new socks and place them in the cardboard boxes on top of the blue Forum boxes in the Main Building. The drive will begin the first week of November and will conclude on Nov. 20, right before Thanksgiving break. Thank you so much for your participation! Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information or visit our website : www.piedmontforum.com 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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Managing Editor Antonia Florence Assistant Editor Elise Hansen Staff Writers/Copyeditors Annette Cashatt Melanie Couzzo Claudia Cruz Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Joe Fowler Owen Krug Gina Leah Bridgette Lively NiaIfe Mukasa Krista C. Petzold Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Arif Michael Vega Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Kelly Wilmer Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Caroline Morris Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com October 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College Virginia Living Ranks Piedmonts Science, Math and Technology Program as One of the Best Kelly Wilmer, Staff Writer To locals, PVCC has always been known as a great school. Now Piedmont is receiving state-wide recognition for its Science, Math and Technology Program. Virginia Livings October issue ranked the top high schools, two-year and four-year colleges in the state in the fields of Science, Math and Technology; Arts and Humanities; Fine and Visual Arts; and Athletics. Piedmont was selected as one of the top two-year colleges in the field of Science, Math and Technology. According to NBC 29, After a thorough review of Photography by Zack Beamer each schools programs and accomplishments Virginia Livings editors selected schools that have instituted new programs or recently begun capital improvements aimed at strengthening students experiences in and beyond the classroom. Piedmont has recently launched new Career Studies Certificates programs that include: Cybersecurity, Central Service Technician, Pharmacy Technician and Craft Beer Brewing, which caught V irginia Livings attention for being the only program of its kind in the state. Adam Hastings, Dean of Business, Math and Technology responded to the article: It is not a matter of setting ourselves apart [from other schools]; rather, we work to have the best program that we can put into place for our students. We want to see our students successful as they learn at PVCC, when they transfer to a four-year institution, and when they apply their learning on the job Ultimately, it is great to be noticed for the tremendous work being done by our students, our faculty and staff, and our community and business partners. In This Issue PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 Gallery Opening -pg. 4 International Travel -pg. 6 PVCC Social Lockn Festival -pg. 11 Piedmont Profile -pg. 13 Comics -pgs. 8-9 -pgs. 14-15 DATES TO REMEMBER From the Editor Antonia Florence, Editor Extract Your Own DNA Oct. 1, 3-5 p.m., Library Classroom, Main Building Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra Oct. 4, 3 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium Constitution Day Speaker Oct. 5, Noon, North Mall Meeting Room, Main Building Fall Break Oct. 8 and 9 Lecture: Iran and the Middle East Oct. 14, 12-1 p.m., M229, Main Building Free Movie Friday: The End of the Tour Oct. 16, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium Charlottesville Municipal Band Oct. 18, 3:30 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium Comedy Writing Workshop Oct. 23, 1-4 p.m., Dickinson Building Fourth Fridays Improv Oct. 23, 6-8 p.m., Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building Casino Night Oct. 23, 7 p.m., Main Building Documentary: The Way of All Flesh Oct. 27, 5:30-7 p.m., Library, Main Building Speaker: Dr. Lundy Pentz Oct. 28, 11:50 a.m.-12:50 p.m., M229, Main Building One Mic Stand Nov. 12, 7 p.m., Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building Veterans Story Theatre Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m., Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building As we step outside, we notice the air holds a hint of seasonal change. The days express their confusion, one sharply brisk followed by the arid confines of the next. The trees are still clinging to their quivering cloaks, waiting for their annual kaleidoscope of colors to emerge. Sugar maples, dogwoods, birches, lindens and gingkoes stand by, waiting to begin the show. Acorns litter the ground while the squirrels dance in their drunken delirium caused by irresponsible consumption of the acorn meats. They will only be able to find half of what they stashed for the cold snowy nights, when they sit by their fireplace, drinking maple-bark mugs of hot cocoa. We teeter precariously, being careful not to lose our footing. We feel the unmistakable jab of that one acorn as it impales the sole of our shoe. Yes, that acorn. The one that would not smoosh flat as we make our way along the sidewalks and through student parking. Gourds of orange, yellow, white and every shade of green are emerging, languishing on the steps, decks and porches of homes. Sometimes they enjoy the company of corn shuck fodders, bales of hay and scarecrows. This brings back memories of carving Jack-o-lanterns. Pressing the slimy pith knotted with seeds, oozing through our fingers as we squeeze it. So, in all of this seasons glory, do not forget to linger a bit, inhale deeply the earthy smell of the air and appreciate natures autumn. And as always, remember whatever you do, wherever you go, you are in control of your own destiny. Page 2 Student Government Association News Have you ever thought studying hard and having fun can go together? If not, you are going to experience it this year at Piedmont. Just keep up with us, and we are going to make this academic year enjoyable for you. For those who do not know me, my name is Nina Matkava. I serve as the Vice President of the Student Government association at Piedmont Virginia Community College. We are working hard to make the environment around us even better each year, not only for students but for faculty and stuff as well. The Student Government was established to be the voice of the students. It is an association of the students, by the students, for the students! The Student Government Association strives to make your college life easier, friendlier and more enjoyable. The SGA is an excellent place for students to develop leadership skills. Join us; prove to yourself that you are the true leader. SGA Vice President Nina Matkava I would like to mention some important dates for this semester: Our next general meeting October 6th, in North Mall Meeting room, at 7 a.m. Casino Night! Are you ready to have fun and win some prizes like new iPods, spa, massage, and many other gift cards? Then mark your calendar on October 23, at 7 p.m. and come enjoy this magical night with your friends and other PVCC students. Dress up and win prize for the best costume! We cannot wait to see you there! We are looking forward to working with you guys, and trying our best to make this year most memorable for you, because YOU are the ones who matter the most! Pratt Presents to Adult Student Life Club Gina Leah, Staff Writer On Sept. 8, 2015, Professor Bill Pratt addressed the Adult Student Life club as part of their ongoing speaker series arranged by Staff Advisor, Denise McClanahan. Pratts informative presentation, Financial Planning Stretching Dollars without Bouncing Checks, takes the stress out of financial planning and does not have to be all about bar graphs and pie charts. It is as simple as developing financial goals, knowing where your money goes, managing your budget, and monitoring and reviewing your finances. He spoke of the high value of financial literacy, the differences in mind-set regarding money between wealthy and not-so-wealthy, and pointed out that lack of communication regarding financial goals is the number one reason for divorce. Using acronyms, Pratt outlined how to create SMART money goals; pointed out that LIFE happens and is often the cause of not meeting financial goals; and urged everyone to SPEND wisely. Finally, he reviewed a simple budgeting process, and spoke of various spending and saving plans to help track cash flow. You can learn more at www.TheMoneyProfessors.com or take one of Pratts classes. Page 3 PVCC Gallery Hosts Opening Reception Elise Hansen, Staff Writer The PVCC Gallery debuted two new exhibits at its opening reception on Sept. 18. The exhibits, Gallery Dreams and Lost and Found, drew a steady crowd throughout the evening as students, friends, family, and other art enthusiasts paced the halls, exclaiming over the pieces. Gallery Dreams, displayed in the South Gallery, is a companion piece to Yard Dreams, the weekend-long outdoor art event that sprinkled Belmont yards with works by local artists. As the indoor counterpart to Yard Dreams, Gallery Dreams allows artists to explore the role of location and context in a piece. James Yates, curator of the Yard Dreams event, helped set the tone for the exhibit with his work Thought Bubbles, which draws the viewer in and invites him to contemplate the nature of art and the human experience. In the North Gallery, Lost and Found showcases the work of two local artists, Deborah Rose Guterbock and Terri Long. I am really pleased with how well these two artists works go together, said Gallery Director and PVCC Art Professor Beryl Solla. Both artists, she explains, use a similar palate in their pieces, draw inspiration from nature and use found art as a medium. Or, as Long put it, We both like to use feathers. Long said Green Marble by Terri she Long frequently Photography by Elise Handraws inspiration from old books. She is fascinated by the moment of throwing away and enjoys the Discard by Terri Long opportunity Photography by Elise Hansen OwlSpirit House By Deborah Rose Guterbock Photography by Elise Hansen to honor objects one last time. Many of her pieces are collages that feature old textbooks, encyclopedias, and vintage Readers Digest books. Guterbocks displayed work includes several richly-colored paintings that combine unexpected features: a toad with a velvet coat or a fox with an Elizabethan-era lace collar. Other pieces are three-dimensional displays of found art. In her piece Owl Spirit House, an owl stares unblinkingly at the audience; eggshells, beaded jewelry, and a timepiece surround it, and all are arranged inside a vintage carrying case that houses the work. When asked about the themes of this piece, Guterberg responded that one of her goals was to create a piece that would encapsulate the essence of owl and exhibit it with great reverence. Overall, Solla said the response to the event was very positive: people were jazzed by the artwork and they loved the food. Its always a festive environment in the gallerypeople stayed well past closing time. Both Gallery Dreams and Lost and Found will remain on display in the Dickinson building until Nov. 4. Page 4 At Ease, Soldier: PVCC Veterans Initiative Melanie Couzzo, Staff Writer Their stories are all unique. Their backgrounds, ethnicities, races, ages, genders, branches of the armed forces, and lengths of service vary. The resulting effects of their service in the military is something they all share in common. The Talking Service Initiative, a reading and discussion group for veterans, is a place where these effects, but especially reintegration into civilian life, are shared and discussed openly. The group is reading The Great Books Foundations anthology Standing Down: From Warrior To Civilian, a collection of works involving service, war, and returning home. The readings include selections from great works, speeches, letters, essays, poems and personal accounts from soldiers both old and new. These stories provide varied examples of how the effects of military life have been impacting personnel throughout the ages. Over a four-week period the group will read 44 selections that are used as facilitators to encourage open discussion among the attending veterans of their personal experiences. Though it is advertised as available only to veterans, Dr. Cliff Haury, the initiatives facilitator and Dean of Humanities, Fine Arts and Social Sciences at PVCC, would like to encourage civilians, along with student veterans, to participate in the initiative in the future, stating that Students have made significant contributions on the ethics of war. He also said, Its an appropriate venue for students to hear the real life experiences of veterans and learn from them. As a Vietnam veteran, Haury has personal experience with the difficulties of reintegrating into civilian life. He believes that the civilian world has become largely disconnected from the enlisted world, and that this disconnect is making the transition from enlisted to civilian life even more difficult for veterans coming home from service. Participating in this discussion group, listening to the stories, and witnessing the connections through mutual understanding is an awe inspiring thing. Haury hopes someday to build a connection between veterans and civilians. Building understanding in the civilian population into their struggle could lead to an easier integration for veterans. If you are interested in joining in the reading or the discussion group, the Talking Service Initiative is being held Wednesdays Sept. 16, Oct. 7, Oct. 28 and Nov. 18, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. in the Jessup Library at PVCC Main Campus. Seating is limited, so registration is required. To register, call Dr. Cliff Haury at 434-961-5380 or send an email to chaury@pvcc.edu. For more information, visit www.pvcc.edu/talking-service. Yard Dreams Exhibit Enchants Belmont Arif Michael Vega, Staff Writer Yard Dreams, the outdoor art exhibit in Belmont, showcased a variety of creative works by local artists. Curator James Yates and Professor Beryl Solla organized the event as well as its indoor counterpart, Gallery Dreams. The works were diverse: in one location, a trail of crabapples beckoned guests onward from a tapestry to a series of hanging sculptures, some woven into trees and foliage, and a bizarre alien suspension garden, whose photographic companion appears in the Dickinson building. Down the street, a small open-gated yard ensconced a sheltered board game, Brownie Roulette. The official rules encouraged players to make a wager: a random item from their pockets against the prize, a vinyl crest imbued with the brownies strongest protection magic. There were many other exhibits, including a collection of glass birds drifting in the wind; a large miniature pipeline, complete with protest; a collection of winged bunnies by event coordinator Beryl Solla, and a collection of toothbrushes growing in a yard. Read the full article at piedmontforum.com. Page 5 International Travel: What a Trip Antonia Florence, Editor If you could go anywhere in the world, how would you prepare? Attending travel forums is a great place to start. On Sept. 21, PVCCs Zack Beamer and David Lerman presented on their respective trips to Argentina and the Netherlands this past summer. Beamer, Instructor of Mathematics, took part in an exchange program offered through PVCC and the Otto Krause Technical School. He was the third PVCC instructor to take part in it, and the first professor outside of the Spanish department. The school is a co-educational, public secondary trade school located in the San Telmo section of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Argentina is about four times the size of Texas. Buenos Aires has 13 million inhabitants, and according to Beamer, [It] is home to some of the most beautiful architecture. While at La Recoleta Cemetery, Beamer visited the current resting place of Eva Peron (Evita). Her remains have been Photography by Zack Beamer moved many times due to the threat of robbers and have even been buried under an alias. One of the most beautiful places he visited was Iguazu Falls which lies on Argentina's border with Brazil. It consists of 275 falls over 1.67 miles, reaches the height of 269 feet and ranks third in the world for the average flow of water. Lerman, Coordinator of Student Success, participated in the Virginia Community College Systems exchange program. He visited the Netherlands, where Dutch is the native language. The Netherlands is one of the most densely populated countries and is roughly twice the size of New Jersey. Amsterdam boasts a population of 1.5 million and possesses more than 60 miles of canals. Lerman took part in an immersion program connected with Noorderpoort College in the municipality of Groningen. This is a multifaceted regional technical Photography by David Lerman school. Klaas Heeres, whom PVCC hosted in October 2014, was Beamers host. Some of Lermans time was spent taking in the architecture, noticing the homes with their beautiful yards, and touring five-thousand-yearold burial sites where the stones had to be transported a vast distance. He visited Greece, where he saw the Acropolis cloaked in moonlight. He also visited the Samerian Gorge, a National Park of Greece on the island of Crete, where he spent time hiking its many trails and taking in the scenery. PVCC is offering several international travel opportunities for its students. Professor Decker, Spanish instructor, will be leading a trip during spring break to the Yucatn Peninsula of Mexico. This area comprises a significant portion of ancient Maya Lowlands. Arrangements are incomplete at this time. Professor Grajales-Diaz, who also teaches Spanish, is leading a trip through Spain leaving May 18, 2016, lasting 11 days. The arrangements for this trip are complete and can be seen on fliers posted in the hallways or on PVCCs website. Faculty are planning two additional trips. Professor Swanson is organizing a trip to France and Instructor Noriko Donahue a trip to Japan. As more information becomes available on all these exciting trips, it will be posted on the schools website under the Academic tab titled International Education. Page 6 The Later the Better? NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer The academic calendar for Piedmont Virginia Community College has a new attitude. This year, the Fall 2015 registration is extended to the end of September, with some classes starting as late as Nov.9. Among the credited classes that are still being offered are classes in Information technology, sociology, history, English and math. The classes range from four to twelve weeks in length and many of them offer credits that will transfer to other colleges. The extended add-drop period gives students the advantage of test-driving their schedules and tweaking them to meet personal needs. The late-starting classes also provide a convenient option for those who do not have the need or desire to spend 16 weeks in school when 12 or fewer will do. The only setback to late registration is the delayed disbursement of funds to those who were awarded financial aid. Vanessa, a representative for the 24-hour student financial aid services, said ... financial aid disbursement is being held until the add and drop period has ended for all of the courses which you are registered in. Those who decide to register for later classes can expect that their refund will come later than others even if they are enrolled in classes that began in August. Delayed refund disbursements aside, late class registration is full of advantages. A complete list of available classes and the add/ drop periods can be found on the PVCC website. PVCC Rocks the Vote NiaIfe Mukasa, Staff Writer Over a hundred students registered during register-to-vote week according to political science Professor Connie Jorgensen. Professor Jorgensen organized the voting registration event that spanned from Sept. 21-24. I am very passionate about registering to vote and the;n voting. Everyone should vote, Jorgensen wrote in an e-mail. Using a new registration tool called TurboVote, 182 students registered during the week-long event. TurboVote helps with new and updating registration as well as helping voters obtain an absentee ballot and vote by mail. With TurboVote you can also sign up to get email and text messages reminding you of upcoming elections and where to find your voting location, Jorgensen wrote. It seems no avenue was left untried to make registration opportunities available to students. Though the main part of the event was held in the Bolick Center, students were also able to register in class, online through Blackboard, or through an email sent out by PVCC President Frank Friedman. Given the number of students enrolled at PVCC and the effort put into the event, few students seem to be interested in voting. Jorgensen voiced her concerns, It may seem like your vote doesnt count, but if you decide not show up youve given up any chance you have of making a difference. Jorgensens passion is making quite an impact on students. She believes that everyone elses vote has greater power when others choose not to vote. When asked what she would say to someone who does not think voting matters, Jorgensen replied, Change doesnt occur overnight, it takes time. Too often I hear I voted once and my candidate lost. Well, you need to keep at it! On Tuesday, Nov. 3, elections will be held for the State Senate, House of Delegates and local offices. To register, visit pvcc.turbovote.org and the site will walk you through the registration process. To learn which candidates are running, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website: sbe.virginia.gov . All students are highly encouraged to participate in the coming elections. Page 7 Welcome Back Social Krista C. Petzold, Staff Writer Sept. 9 brought sunshine, free food, volleyball, and a dunking tank to PVCCs main campus.The Welcome Back Social kicked off another great semester for students, faculty and staff. The free food was fantastic and a nice way for people to talk and meet one another outside of class. This relaxed setting has become an anticipated tradition for returning students and a nice way to break the ice for new students. The Welcome Back Social also involved games like volleyball and Ping-Pong. For students who either wanted to get dunked or dunk someone else in some refreshing water, the dunk tank provided great fun for observers and dunking victims alike. Prizes were even awarded throughout the day. The most common prize seemed to be a $10 gift card to The Mermaid Express Coffee Cafe in the main building. The 2015 Welcome Back Social was a great experience and a nice break from the daily routine of school work and classes. Welcome back students and good luck with the fall semester! Photography by Krista C. Petzold Page 8 Page 9 Free Movie Friday: Inside Out Gina Leah, Staff Writer It was a full house at the showing of Inside Out on Sept. 18. The audience was a mix of ages ranging from children to grandparents, and everyone was looking forward to an evening of entertainment. The first in PVCCs 2015-2016 Free Movie Fridays series, the evening started with a short film by Jacob Chang-Rascle, The W orld is Amazing. This short, a Timelapse Short Film, was created and directed by Chang-Rascle, who also composed the music that accompanied beautiful time-lapse images of nature. It was a breathtaking and soothing start to the evening. Inside Out is an animated film from DisneyPixar directed by Peter Docter and Ronaldo del Carmen. The film is about an 11-year-old girl, Riley. Specifically, it is about Rileys core emotions Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust and Anger which help Riley navigate through life. Riley grows up as an only child of two loving parents in the Midwest. Joy is her prevailing emotion through this time, and most of her memories are joyful. Trouble starts when the family has to move to San Francisco for her fathers business. At first, with Joys help, Riley tries to make the best of things. But during a struggle between Sadness and Joy, Rileys core memories are lost, leading to emptiness for Riley. Joy and Sadness leave Disgust, Anger and Fear in charge while they search for the core memories and try to bring them back before all of Rileys foundational memories are lost to the Memory Dump. During the journey, Joy begins to understand the necessity of Sadness in Rileys memories in order for Riley to create new, joyful, memories in her new home, her old memories have to be tinged with a little bit of Sadness. A family with four children ranging in ages from 7 to 16 agreed to talk about their feelings about the film. Their reactions to the movie ran the same gamut as the emotions portrayed in the film. The 16-year-old boy liked it and thought it was a true portrayal, the 14-year-old girl thought it was repetitive, the 10-year-old boy did not like it, and the 7-year-old girl thought it was scary and sad. My 21-year-old daughter thought it was brilliant. A follow up a few days later showed that they were pointing out each others emotions throughout the day: Youre Anger!, Youre Sad, Youre showing Disgust, and so on. Their mom liked that the movie opened the door for them recognize emotions in each other, and even to pinpoint what caused some of the emotions. Dr. Michael Rahilly held a short question and answer session after the show to discuss the many meanings portrayed in the film, and agreed to an interview later in the week. Rahilly said that, From a psychologists point of view, the movie uses a lot of fields understanding of emotions and thoughts. Really using them in a very accurate way. What made [the movie] effective from a developmental psychologists point of view is that it shows the development of emotional capacity. Rileys memories were changing because she was passing through the developmental process that happens in middle childhood, that you can only feel one emotion at a time. The most important concept in this movie for children and adults, according to Rahilly, is recognizing emotions and their roles; keeping emotions as an important aspect of life. The movie showed the primary emotions. Everyone has the capacity to feel them and understand them. They show up in the first year of life. The next are secondary emotions that are basically the same emotions but directed toward the self. For instance, Pride would be Joy about the Self. Inside Out will be released on Digital HD on Oct. 13 and Blu-Ray on Nov. 3. The next Free Movie Friday feature will be The End of the Tour on Oct. 16. Page 10 The Lockness Monster Joseph Fowler, Staff Writer Twenty-five thousand rabid music fans descended upon Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, VA, when Lockn, a force of nature and annual music festival, arrived in a wash of rain, floods and tornadoes, the Daily Progress reported. \ Lockn arrived on Thursday, September 10. Even Lockn proved ill-prepared to handle Lockn, prompting a postponement of festivities until the next day. Three days of festivities promptly followed. We got there around 5:30 Friday morning and set up camp, said Lockn veteran and local nurse Gary Mahoney. Everything got put off until Friday because of the weather on Thursday. Mahoney went on to add that concert goers endured torrential downpours of glow sticks and hula hoops along with twelve hours a day of constant noise due to the twin stages of the main venue which allowed for no downtime in between sets. Mahoney also said that despite their dire circumstances, attendees reacted well to acts like Bob Weir, a former member of the Grateful Dead; Robert Plant, former member of Led Zeppelin; and festival-circuit mainstays such as Widespread Panic and The String Cheese Incident. I was never really into the Grateful Dead that much, but I really enjoyed the Widespread Panic sets. They played on Saturday and Sunday nights. I also really appreciated the chance to see Robert Plant, because Ill probably never have that chance again, said Mahoney. After taking a moment to pause and reflect, Mahoney changed the subject. There was a sign up at the venue entrance warning people that they were being recorded, he revealed. Mahoney also pointed out the presence of a surveillance drone flying over the concert venue, though he never presented any connection between the sign and the drone as an alternate theory. Photography by Gary Mahoney The sign at the venue entrance said that the purpose of recording was for promotional purposes, Mahoney stated but then went on to add that he noticed less public officials on the ground than in previous years, implying that perhaps the drone somehow influenced a safer environment overall. There were less medical emergencies on the ground than in the past, and less arrests and other apparent activity by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Mahoney added. On the subject of alcohol, Mahoney mentioned the presence of several vendors selling local micro brews. His focus shifted to the festivals effect on local business as a whole. Mahoney provided a photograph and pointed out a giant tent dubbed local with vendors ranging from Sticks Kebob Shop to The Pie Guy. Lockn 2015 stormed upon Arrington. A festival of love, common interest, music and safe fun emerged afterwards along with a boost to the local economy, good vibes and fond memories. Page 11 Giving Back Made Fun And Easy Melanie Couzzo, Staff Writer Many people want to do good for their communities or for other places around the world but find themselves lacking the time, energy, or money to do so. Giving back can become an afterthought, something to get to someday when we have all of those things to spare. Well, with the modern-day conveniences of the internet and cellphones, someday has arrived. With these technological advances, giving back has never been more simple, fun, or free. The level of involvement to these new charitable opportunities varies. Some require a one-time sign-up or a daily task, while others require you to review works or play games. Many link directly to your daily routine without any inconvenience to you beyond the initial sign-up. With so many ways to make a www.kroger.com/ difference, finding communityrewards the right one for you may be the smile.amazon.com biggest investment you www.goodsearch.com have to make. The simplest way thehungersite.greater to give is through good.com everyday activities such as freerice.com grocery shopping. Kroger www.care2.com/clickCommunity to-donate/ Rewards will donate a portion www.charitymiles.org of every purchase to local www.kiva.org fundraisers when you swipe your www.zidisha.org plus card. Amazonsmile and Goodsearch.com Quick Links function similarly: just select a charity youd like to contribute to, and a portion of every purchase afterwards is donated to that charity. You can change your selection at any time, so feel free to spread the love. Daily donations can be made at The Hunger Site and Freerice.com without registration; since they are ad sponsored, your clicks provide the money to charity. The Hunger Site gives you the option of donating to any of ten different causes with a simple click. Freerice.com gathers donations through a trivia game with different categories of questions to answer. Each correct answer provides rice to the World Food Programme. For a big impact without the daily time commitment, Kiva.org and Zidisha.org are microlending sites where you provide a small loan to people from around the world that will be paid back to you within a set time frame. You may then choose to loan that money to another cause or to simply get your money back. For those who want to be more directly involved, Care2.com is a simple and effective way to access petitions for a wide range of causes, from animal welfare to civil rights. It also allows you to start a petition of your own. Apps are also a fun and easy way to donate. With Charity Miles, you simply download the app, select a charity, and for every mile you bike, run or walk, money is donated to your selected charity. The Give Work iPhone app has a unique approach: companies crowdsource simple jobs through Samasource, a global data sourcing company that trains refugees in different skills. These trained refugees are given the jobs, and you, through the Give Work app, double-check their work to ensure its accuracy and quality. With so many options available, its easy to give back in a way that fits your lifestyle and income bracket. You can make a difference, do good, and still have the time, energy, and money to do all of those other things life requires you to do. You may just feel better about it. Page 12 Piedmont Profile: Todd Platts Elise Hansen, Staff Writer determined to keep his courses fresh and bring new ideas into his classroom. He is creating new lectures, experimenting with different teaching techniques, and putting together a library of videos as a resource for his classes. He also wants to help develop textbooks that are more affordable for students and expand PVCCs course offerings in sociology. One of the initiatives he is most passionate about is his goal to re-start the Volunteer Club at PVCC. He urges anyone who is interested to contact him about volunteer opportunities with the club. He is also helping develop a grant in hopes of bringing a poverty simulation experience to PVCC campus, which would help students understand some of the issues surrounding poverty and the experiences of people who are in poverty. In short, Platts is a man with a lot of plans for his time at PVCC, and he hopes that this will be the first of many years in which those plans will come to life Dr. Todd Platts has an unusual claim to fame: he is the first to publish academic research on the sociology of zombies. The zombie professor, as some are starting to know him, hopes to inspire students to learn more about sociology and to gain a greater appreciation for what social science does. Many students think that sociology is just people talking about their opinions, he explains, but, actually, it requires a lot of rigor and data. Sociology is a science, he insists, and sociologists consider themselves scientists. His own work is a good example of this. While he chose an unconventional topic to study, his methods of researching and his indepth analysis ultimately earned him his Ph.D. from the University of Missouri. Even now, he is writing a paper that is a statistical analysis of zombie film production over time, and he is coauthoring a paper about slasher films that he will present in Denmark this winter. He also has a forthcoming book chapter charting the evolution of the zombie in popular culture. This is Platts first year teaching at PVCC, and his voice brims with enthusiasm as he discusses his many plans for enriching the PVCC community. He is no stranger to teaching he has taught at the University of Missouri, Moberly Area Community College, Harrisburg Area Community College and the University of Southern Todd Platts in his office. Photography by Antonia Florence Mississippibut he is Page 13 Riddles Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer A round silver coin, Someone tossed up high. Round and full, shining. On indigo velvet rests In a chill tempest, bitter. Carven visage, a Fiery elemental, Held in its confines. Lighting the night on the day, That the dead come among us. No Luck Chuck by Bridgette Lively Scarlett, umber, gold, Sinuous and black, So many vibrant hues, warm, A shadow drenched in moonlight, First flora, then fire. Silently pads. Fallen in their thousands, Mighty hunter, causing fright, Crumbling underfoot, brittle. Crossing his path sours ones luck. Find more riddles on piedmontforum.com Page 14 Interesting Facts: Halloween Bridgette Lively, Staff Writer Halloween can be a fun or horrifying holiday. That really depends if you get tricked or treated. Here are some Halloween Facts I found: Source: www.randomhistory.com The first jack o-lanterns were actually made of turnips Samhainophobia is the fear of Halloween Halloween is the second highest grossing commercial holiday after Christmas The owl is a popular Halloween image. In medieval Europe, owls were thought to be witches, and to hear an owls call meant someone was about to die Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 15 Classifieds Dont miss the One Book Project Events this month Documentary The Way of All Flesh Oct. 27, 5:30-7 p.m. Library, Main Building Speaker: Dr. Lundy Pentz Oct. 28, 11:50 a.m.-12:50 p.m. M229, Main Building Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information or visit our website : www.piedmontforum.com 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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Managing Editor Antonia Florence Assistant Editor Elise Hansen Staff Writers/Copyeditors Annette Cashatt Melanie Couzzo Claudia Cruz Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Joseph Fowler Elise Hansen Gina Leah Bridgette Lively NiaIfe Mukasa Krista C. Petzold Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Arif Michael Vega Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Kelly Wilmer Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Caroline Morris Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com September 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College Found Art in PVCCs Betty Sue Jessup Library Antonia Florence, Editor Imagine the mixture of curiosity and apprehension you feel as you see an open book with illustrations literally popping from its pages. Attached to it is a note. Your heart quickens with excitement as you realize it is the work of a generous gifted artist who leaves it for its finder to cherish, with one request: You can keep me, trade me, gift me or leave me for the next fabulous individual to find. I hope I have made your day! And please consider arting it forward by creating another anonymous art piece and leaving it for someone to find. Your mind flashes back, remembering the news blurbs about the Anonymous Art Gift Project in other places, towns and cities. With trembling hands and a quick pace, you carefully transport it to share with your co-workers, and the rest of Piedmont Virginia Community Colleges inhabitants. Avie Thacker, Technical Services Supervisor for PVCCs Betty Sue Jessup Library, felt just this way. She was making her rounds through the library one recent afternoon, Look inside for descriptions and contact information for PVCC clubs. and as she walked past the study carrels, the characters leaping off its pages caught her eye. She found an altered book created from a 1943 publication. Tales of a Russian Grandmother was written by Frances Carpenter and illustrated by Ivan Bilibine. The library is working with Art Professor Beryl Solla to have the delicate piece of work conserved and mounted for display in the library for all to enjoy. Display arrangements have not been completed. In This Issue Photography by Antonia Florence PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA Update -pg. 3 One Book -pg. 4 Club Details Comics Interesting Facts -pg. 15 Classifieds -pg.16 -pgs. 5-13 -pgs. 14-15 DATES TO REMEMBER Mark Nizer Comedy Act Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. Dickinson Building Bill Pratt on Financial Planning Sept. 8, 6:30-8 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Open Auditions for Rocky Horror Show Sept. 8-10, 5-8 p.m., Dickinson Building Welcome Back Social Sept. 9, Main Building, One Mic Stand Sept. 10, 7 p.m., Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building One Book Blood Drive Sept. 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room YARD DREAMS Sept. 18-20 , Belmont Neighborhood Gallery Exhibit Opening Reception Sept. 18, 5-7 p.m., Dickinson Building Free Movie Friday: Inside Out Sept 18, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium National Register to Vote Day Sept. 22, Bolick Student Center Fourth Fridays Improv The Forum Welcomes You Antonia Florence, Editor Welcome to PVCCs The Forum. This is a monthly student-run publication guided by our faculty advisor, Dr. Tamara Whyte. It is our mission to highlight campus life, news and events. The excitement on campus points to one thing, the beginning of a new semester. There seem to be an abundance of new students sporting excited smiles, wide open eyes, and craning necks looking for familiar faces. This issue is dedicated to PVCCs club offerings. We have highlighted more than 40; which one interests you? They do not all meet at the same time, so choose a few. On your way to class, take the time to read the bulletin boards. The same notices are not posted on each one. Are you looking for a job or textbook, need a tutor or want to participate in a study or community function? It just may be there. Remember, whatever you do, wherever you go, you are in control of your own destiny. Sept. 25, 6-8 p.m., Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building Extract Your Own DNA Oct. 1, 3-5 p.m., Library Classroom, Main Building ...PVCCs Oct. 4, 3 p.m., Dickinson Auditorium is looking for YOU to join. Constitution Day Speaker EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. HAVE FUN. Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra Oct. 5, Noon, North Mall Meeting Room, Main Building Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information Page 2 Student Government Association News On behalf of your Student Government Association, I would like to welcome each of you for the Fall semester. For those who do not know me personally, my name is Camron Perry. I serve as the president of the Student Government association here at Piedmont. Our Executive board and Student Government are always working hard to create an even better environment for the student body. Our mission statement is to protect and improve the rights, opportunities, and quality of life of every student here at Piedmont Virginia Community College. We strive to address input from as many of you as possible and we could not do what we do if it was not for each and every student. At-large members report issues to the SGA who then passes on that information directly to the college administration. You can also help by becoming an SGA club representative in any of the fifty plus clubs that are offered here at PVCC. If you missed our help desk that was set up in the Student Center with school maps to find your classes and SGA pamphlets, no worries! You can always keep up with everything we do on our Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/PVCCstudentgov and on our board in the Student Center. I would like to add a couple of dates that everyone should be marking on their calendars for the semester: Fall Club Day September 2. Sign up for any of the wide variety of clubs including Student Government Association! Welcome Back Social September 9. We will have a dunk tank, music, food, etc. Thank you all for your hard work and good luck to each of you this semester. We are blessed to serve our student body; we love and we are very excited to have you back on campus. We cannot wait to experience another semester with you here at PVCC. Student Government Association "Let Your Voice Be Heard" sga@pvcc.edu Camron Perry SGA President cfp2258@email.vccs.edu SGA President Camron Perry Photography courtesy of SGA Page 3 PVCC Reads The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks Annette Cashatt, Staff Writer In today's world of selfie-sticks and 24/7 access to social media, it is hard to imagine a person who has interacted with millions of lives yet only has a few pictures of her own. That it took between five and six decades for her to gain noticeable recognition for her enormous contributions to science and medicine is almost as shocking as her life story. We can thank author Rebecca Skloot for shedding light on Henrietta's life and her miraculous cells in the 2010 book The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Photography by Elise Hansen Not to give away any spoilers, but Skloot brings up concepts of medical ethics, race, poverty, family, religion, profiteering, and raw human nature. Perhaps it was this powerful subject matter which led to the book being voted number one in the One Book Project. Last semester, students had the option of voting for their favorite One Book from a selection of titles. This is the second annual One Book Project, and it is hosted by PVCC's Betty Sue Jessup library. PVCC librarian Laura Skinner said, I love it. I adore it. It's fascinating and multi-layered. Skinner said that the book received a landslide number of votes. Last year's One Book, Breaking Night, a memoir by Liz Murray, was also popular. Several events and contests centered on Breaking Night were hosted by the library to promote literature and writing. This semester, the library plans to host a variety of events related to The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Some of the planned events are as follows: One Book Launch on Club Day, Sept. 2. Fr ee copies of the One Book will be passed out. Blood Drive on Sept. 16. The fir st 10 students to donate blood in Henr iettas name will receive a free tote bag. Extract Your Own DNA on October 1. 10 students will have a chance to extr act their own DNA and take it home with them in a vial, as well as receive a free tote bag. Essay Contest Announcement on October 12. Details of the essay contest will be emailed. Screening of the documentary The W ay of the Flesh on October 27. This movie explores Henriettas cells and her story. Dr. Lundy Pentz will present a lecture on October 28 in the auditorium. Dr. Pentz is a retired biology professor from Mary Baldwin College and received his PhD from Johns Hopkins. Closing Event: One Book Trivia Game on November 18. Five teams of thr ee students will participate in a Jeopardy-style game of trivia on the One Book. As these events approach, more details will be emailed to the student body. The book is an exciting choice, voted on by students, and has the premise to become an incredible One Book Project. For more information, visit: www.pvcc.edu/onebook Page 4 Club information Adult Student Life Club Karen Riordan, Staff Writer Art Club Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer Are you a PVCC student who is 25 years or older? Then check out PVCCs newest club Adult Student Life Club. This club focuses on providing engagement opportunities for adult students to address the challenges they may face. If you are an adult who has enrolled in college for the first time, or if you are going back to school, then there is a place for you in the Adult Student Life Club. Student contact: Gina Edwards, gle235@email.vccs.edu. Staff contact Denise McClanahan, dmcclanahan@pvcc.edu. The Art Club at Piedmont Virginia Community College is a fun, art-oriented club with many annual events. The Art Club sponsors the annual Day of the Dead Candy-Thon, the Film Series, artist workshops, college visits and much more! Student contact: Aubrey Tomlin, atomlin8755@email.vccs.edu. Faculty advisor: Beryl Solla, bsolla@pvcc.edu. All Living Creatures Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer BSA members work together to cultivate leadership, stimulate cultural and educational awareness and contribute service to the College community PVCC. The club meets every Wednesday at 12 noon in the main building M175. Faculty advisor: Justin Wert, Jwert@pvcc.edu. Here at PVCC we have an array of various clubs. If you are an animal lover, then All Living Creatures is for you. Their goal is to educate people about different animals. Staff advisor: Frances Rees, frees@pvcc.edu Black Student Alliance Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer Board Game Club Photography by Samantha Prentiss Members of the Board Game Club learn and play games from around the world such as simple German family games to collectable card games to complex historical war games. This club meets Tuesdays on the third floor of Dickinson from 3 to 6:30 or 7. Feel free to drop in for an hour or two during that time. Faculty advisor: Bruce Glassco, bglassco@pvcc.edu. Anime Club The Anime Club is for people with an interest in anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture media. The clubs goal is to make everyone feel welcome, while sharing common interests. They meet Fridays in M155 between 3-5 PM. Contact: Kayla Paschall, kdp2460@email.vccs.edu. Photography by Samantha Prentiss Page 5 The Book Club Karen Riordan, Staff Writer Want to expand your mind? Interested in meeting new people within a community of readers? Excited to learn about different cultures and new ideas? Come to a Book Club meeting. The president of the Book Club, Alexis Williams said, We choose a book to read, and we meet the first Monday of every month at noon and discuss it. For more information, contact Crystal Newell, cnewell@pvcc.edu or Alexis Williams, anw23435@email.vccs.edu. finance. They frequently invite business professionals and entrepreneurs to speak at PVCC so that students can learn from the experiences of seasoned professionals. The Business Club also strives to foster a more educated, professional community, with an emphasis on professional etiquette and deportment. Contact Business Club founder and President Scott Cast, sac2689@email.vccs.edu for more information. Chess Club Learn the game of chess, play the game of chess, develop skills for the game of chess. For more information contact staff advisor: Charlie Huffman, chuffman@pvcc.edu, Student Contacts: Hunter Hough (Co-President), hbh215@email.vccs.edu Abel Pors (CoPresident), aep22252@email.vccs.edu. Photography by Samantha Prentiss Brony Club Jackie Layton, Staff Writer The Brony Club shares a common interest in the show My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. Club members exemplify honesty, generosity, compassion, optimism, devotion and leadership. Members participate in activities once a week, focusing on these characteristics and include watching the show, enjoying fan content, fundraisers, and service projects. The clubs goal is to be a place for people to feel like they belong, with no judgment. Faculty advisor: Wendi Dass, wdass@pvcc.edu Business Club Katya Beisel, Staff Writer The Business Club has three goals: leadership development, entrepreneurship, and personal Christian Student Fellowship (CSF) Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer The CSF or Christian Fellowship Club meets on a weekly basis to discuss excerpts from the Bible, pray, and engage with others who share a common interest in biblical studies and fellowship. CSF meets on Wednesdays during College Hour, The group is open to all students interested in fellowship and Biblical studies. For more information contact student Contact/President: Cory Coogan, ccc21218@email.vccs.edu Staff advisor: Andre Luck, aluck@pvcc.edu. Creative Writing Club Karen Riordan, Staff Writer Consider joining the Creative Writing Club. In the fall, the group focuses on their own writing in a relaxed atmosphere. This includes a weekly freePage 6 writing period with optional prompts and sharing. In the spring, the club works on publishing the student literary magazine, The Fall Line. The first club meeting is Wed, Sept. 9 at 3 p.m. in the Writing Center Lab (M627). After that, the club will meet every other Monday at 2 pm. For more information, contact co-presidents, Annette Cashatt (alc2711@email.vccs.edu) and Russell Wright (rlw2897@email.vccs.edu). The faculty advisor is Jennifer Koster, jkoster@pvcc.edu. Film Making Club The mission of the Film Making Club is to bring together students who are interested in film and filmmaking in order to encourage and provide support and guidance for student filmmaking interests and activities. Faculty advisor: Kay Bethea, kbethea@pvcc.edu. The Film Series The Film Series presents a variety of films including current and visually interesting films. For more information contact faculty advisor: Beryl Solla bsolla@pvcc.edu. The Forum Karen Riordan, Staff Writer Photography by Samantha Prentiss 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 clubs provides students with many dance opportunities throughout the year, including FREE technique classes, choreography and performance opportunities, and much more! Staff advisor: Anne Megibow, amegibow@pvcc.edu student contact: Kai Filippucci, kcf283@email.vccs.edu. Engineering and Technology Club The PVCC Engineering and Technology Club is designed to gather PVCC engineering students for social and career-oriented purposes. Student contact: Mark Potter, President, mpotter5001@email.vccs.edu. Staff advisor: Hunter Moore, hmoore@pvcc.edu. The Forum, which is the student newspaper is on the cutting edge of the latest news and information on campus. There is something for everyone to do including writing articles, taking photographs, copy editing, and creating the layout. Discover how you can make writing more fun and rewarding. The Forum meets monthly. The first club meeting will be on Sept. 8, 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., room M-160. For more information, contact club President Antonia Florence at aflorence0004@email.vccs.edu or faculty advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte at twhyte@pvcc.edu. French Culture Club Katya Beisel, Staff Writer Dedicated to the promotion of French language and culture, PVCCs French Culture Club seeks to give students a space to enjoy the language and culture of France. While no language skills are required, native-speakers are encouraged to join the club. For more information contact the student contact: Tulio Vitale (President): tbv272@email.vccs.edu or faculty advisor: Kris Swanson, kswanson@pvcc.edu. Page 7 Gender Equality Club workshops, and movies. The club is intended for those students who are in the Graphic Design Program but is open to all students interested in or experienced in all things related to design. Student contact: Aubrey Tomlin atomlin8755@email.vccs.edu. Faculty advisor: Aaron Miller Amiller@pvcc.edu. Horticulture & Environmental Club Jackie Layton, Staff Writer Photography by Samantha Prentiss Our mission is to promote gender equality by educating the PVCC community about gender inequality and providing a forum to discuss issues related to gender. Gender equality does not imply that all people experience and express gender identity in the same way, but that all people should have equal rights and be treated with the same respect. For more information and details about this club please contact Connie Jorgensen, cjorgensen@pvcc.edu. German Club Jackie Layton, Staff Writer The German Club promotes knowledge of and interest in German language, history and culture and provides a relaxed setting. Members engage in various activities such as watching German movies, practicing their German speaking skills, playing German board games, and organizing parties periodically, such as Oktoberfest and Karneval/Fasching. Contact staff advisor Patricia Jassmann, pjassman@pvcc.edu for more details. Graphics Club Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer The Graphics Club at PVCC hosts the Graphics Club Hour where the students can engage in many activities that revolve around the graphic world. The club annually hosts guest speakers, Started in 2007, PVCCs Horticulture & Environmental Club was formed to provide students and community members with an organic garden to learn about environmentally-sound Photography by Jackie Layton horticulture and sustainable practices. Each year, produce from the garden is donated to local food banks in central Virginia. Club member and natural science major Fletcher Gore said, I like how our garden is making a difference and how it was created for us. One of the 2015 goal is to have all eight garden beds filled with vegetable plants. Information is available on the Horticulture & Environment club page, Facebook page and blog. Contact co-advisors David Lerman (dlerman@pvcc.edu) or Jennifer Scott (jscott@pvcc.edu) for further information. International Club Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer The International Clubs main mission is to welcome PVCC students from other countries and make them feel like they are not alone. The International Club hosts various activities throughout the year, like bake sales and a salsa dance party. Student contact: Jonathon Languasco, jbl27@email.vccs.edu. Faculty advisors: Irina Timchenko, itimchenko@pvcc.edu and Jorge Grajales-Diaz, jgrajalesdiaz@pvcc.edu. Page 8 Photography by Samantha Prentiss Investment Club The Investment Club is one of the oldest clubs on PVCCs campus. Its mission is to educate and improve its members' knowledge of investing in the markets as well as foster a deeper understanding of business. Brandon Zeman, president of the club, can be reached at blz220@email.vccs.edu. Japanese Club Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer The Japanese Club focuses on expanding knowledge of Japanese culture and language at PVCC. Meetings occur once or twice weekly, usually on Tuesdays and Thursdays before the Japanese class. Noriko Donahue, the staff advisor, hopes her students learn more about Japanese culture through activities such as cooking, learning Japanese card games and much more. Some of the most popular activities that happen throughout the year are the visits to the Japanese garden to enjoy a nice cup of tea and also going to a karaoke night once a year. And yes, everything is strictly Japanese! Contact Ruihong Sun at rs25968@email.vccs.edu for more information. Latter-day Saints Club Jackie Layton, Staff Writer The purpose of the Latter-day Saints Club is to increase gospel understanding through the scriptures. Latter-day Saints seek to create goodwill among people of all religious beliefs, political persuasions, and of every race who desire to preserve and protect religious freedom. The protection of conscience is a vital ingredient, said Dallin H. Oaks, an American attorney, jurist, author, and religious leader in a recent address entitled Challenges to Religious Freedom, because it helps people from a wide spectrum of beliefs feel assured that their deepest concerns and values are respected and protected As we work together to protect religious freedom...We should love all people, be good listeners, and show concern for the sincere beliefs of others. All are invited to come and experience the peace that comes from being acquainted with the scriptures. The club will meet Tuesdays at 12:10 p.m. at PVCC. The room will be announced at a later time. Contact advisor Andrew Renshaw (renshaw@pvcc.edu) for more information. Photo provided by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. LGBTQA Club Katya Beisel, Staff Writer The LGBTQA group seeks to raise awareness of the issues faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning people and allies. Outreach and inclusion are top priorities for the Photography by LGBTQA club, Samantha Prentiss which seeks to foster a community of acceptance and tolerance regardless of sexual orientation or gender. Events sponsored by the LGBTQA club include the Ask-a-Queer booth, which centers on opening dialogue between queer students and their curious straight or cisgender peers, and answering sensitive questions without fear of judgement or offending. Contact Eddie Edwards at eme2730@email.vccs.edu for more information. Page 9 LIFE (Life is For Everyone) Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer Music Club Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer The mission of the LIFE club is to promote the value of human life. The clubs goal is to teach and educate about fetal development and abortion realities. This club represents the unborn who are in danger of losing their lives. For more information about this club, contact staff advisors Nicole Winkler (nwinkler@pvcc.edu) and Kemper Steele (ksteele@pvcc.edu), or club president Robert Palmer at rmp2140@email.vccs.edu. The Music Club is dedicated to promoting an organization where students interested in both musical performance and music listening can engage in making music, open discussion and sharing musical interests. The club meets weekly in the Maxwell Box Theatre. Contact Mike Baize (mbaize6274@email.vccs.edu) or Jacob Brumback (jrb264345@email.vccs.edu) for more information. Masquers Club (Theatre) Jackie Layton, Staff Writer The Masquers Club is organized and directed exclusively by students interested in any aspect of theatre, including film. The Masquers are actively involved in major theatre productions and production of smaller theatrical events. Participation of students both as audience members and performers/technicians is encouraged. Contact staff advisor Brad Stoller (bstoller@pvcc.edu) for more information. Native American Student Union Katya Beisel, Staff Writer A new addition to the array of clubs offered at PVCC, the Native American Student Union (NASU) is dedicated to raising awareness of Native American peoples and the issues they face. The union gives students who are interested in native cultures or are native themselves a place to meet like-minded students. We have a mix of native and non-native students who all share a common interest in the culture and public education around the culture, said club member Emily Kate Gillespe. The NASU participated in the 2015 International Food Festival, and spreads information about area indigenous events, including Virginia pow wows. According to Gillespe, the NASU is planning a trip to Cahokia mounds an important pre-Columbian cultural and spiritual site of Mississippian cultures next year. Mu Alpha Theta Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer Mu Alpha Theta is PVCCs chapter of the mathematics honor society. The Mu Alpha Theta club awards students with scholarships and access to mathematical conventions. Members are able to wear honor cords at graduation. Mu Alpha Theta meets at the main campus in room M811. For more information contact Diane Valade dvalade@pvcc.edu or the chapter contact at MAT@pvcc.edu. Photography by Samantha Prentiss Page 10 Outdoor Club The Outdoor Club at PVCC serves to promote knowledge of our local area's excellent natural areas through adventures and exploration. While exploring these places and getting together, we will build teamwork skills, learn camping and survival techniques, view natural habitats, exercise, make new friends, and have fun! Staff advisor John Gulley can be reached at jgulley@pvcc.edu. Photography courtesy of PEP Club People Empowering People (PEP) Club Katya Beisel, Staff Writer The People Empowering People Club, or PEP Club, seeks to lessen the barriers, misconceptions, and prejudice that disabled people often face. Every spring, they host a wheelchair basketball game between the Charlottesville Cardinals and PVCC students. They seek to educate and raise awareness for the disabled and serve as a voice for students with physical, intellectual, mental, and other less visible disabilities. Faculty supervisor Susan Hannifan said, When we have events on campus, whether its wheelchair basketball or a motivational speaker who has struggled with learning disabilities, it is always inspiring to see what these people have overcome and how they are giving back to our community. PEP club welcomes all PVCC students. Contact TaNisha Kinney at tsk2438@email.vccs.edu for more information. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Katya Beisel, Staff Writer Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the national honor society for two-year colleges, and PVCCs chapter is active in our community. It organizes frequent fundraisers, attends a regional conference in the fall, and creates college-wide projects. An application to join PTK can be found on their webpage, along with the requirements for membership. However, all meetings are open to non-member students, and provisional memberships are available for curious, undecided students and those who do not meet eligibility requirements. PVCCs Phi Theta Kappa chapter prides itself on its Five Star Status, which recognizes a chapters excellence. According to chapter president Brandon Zeman, [PVCCs] chapter focuses on fundraising throughout the year . . . students should be on the lookout for fundraisers organized by PTK. To learn more, contact Zeman at blz220@email.vccs.edu. Political Club The Political Club provides a safe place for people to debate current international and national issues and to encourage students to get involved in College policy and disband political animosity. Staff Advisor Connie Jorgensen can be reached at cjorgenson@pvcc.edu. Pottery Club Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer The Pottery Club is a fun club where students are able to create masterpieces out of pottery clay. The Pottery Club is an artisan club designed to help develop and nurture skills. The pottery club is offered to ceramics students and art-loving students. The pottery club meets in the Art building/Dickinson building. To learn more about the pottery club contact Tom Clarkson at tclarkson@pvcc.edu. Page 11 Radiography Club Ryan Winkler, Staff Writer The PVCC Radiography Club is reserved for PVCC students who have been accepted into the radiography program. The club will be holding elections for the junior class at the beginning of the summer semester. Primarily, the Radiography Club fundraises for a yearly conference. The current president, Chuck Kovacik, can be reached at clk2974@email.vccs.edu. Science Club Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer If you are a lover of science, then this is for you. The Science Club here at Piedmont has a goal of promoting science and showing that it does apply to everyday life. Their other mission is to make science less exclusive within our community and get people involved so they can see that they are able to observe natural wonders too. To learn more, contact Taylor Wright at tlw23806@email.vccs.edu. The Soccer Club Karen Riordan, Staff Writer You do not have to be Christiano Ronaldo to join the PVCC Soccer Club. The purpose of the club is to promote the game of soccer, interact with peers, stay fit, and develop good sportsmanship skills. While the participants may not make it to 2018 World Cup, they will surely have fun. They hope to win some games too. The Soccer Club plays in the regular season organized by SOCA (Soccer Organization of Charlottesville Albemarle). The club meets on Fridays at 11 a.m. at "the park" of UVA, located next to the Law School. They also practice on the field between Carrs Hill and the UVA tennis courts during the week. Edwing Alicandu, captain of the Soccer Club said, This fall, I will be recruiting players, both men and women, for the team that will play on the winter and spring leagues. Alicandu also said that he hopes to organize some friendly games against other community colleges so that we might have a chance to see the PVCC Bears play against other community college teams.For more information, contact student manager and captain of the program, Edwing Alicandu at eja2215@email.vccs.edu or Faculty Advisor Steve McNerney at smcnerney@pvcc.edu. Sonography Club Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer The Sonography Clubs mission is to mentor students and help them in the professional and the business world. Summer Halls says, I always see posters of the sonography club, and they are always doing good deeds Photography by around PVCC, even Samantha Prentiss if its doing bake sales and helping students with certain work ethics. This type of club I would recommend others to join. For more information about this club, contact Lisa Burrington at lburrington@pvcc.edu. El Club de Espaol! Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer Or Spanish Club, as it is formally known, is a growing community at Piedmont. The Spanish Club seeks to promote the Spanish culture and language throughout our college. The club meets weekly; students of all levels are welcome to attend. The club organizers make it possible for students who attend to hear occasional presentations, engage in arts and crafts using the typical piata paper--paper picado. The club also organizes visits to the Casa Bolivar at the University of Virginia and to the downtown salsa classes. To learn more, contact student leaders Alexander Urp (axu2db@virginia.edu) and Brigith Bautista (bnb23473@email.vccs.edu). Page 12 Student Government Association (SGA) Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer Tennis Club Karen Riordan, Staff Writer The SGA is the main student-run organization. Their goal is to represent the student body and make going to Piedmont a great experience. SGA holds numerous events throughout the school year, like fall Halloween mixer, or the Spring Fling. They hold councilstyle meetings so everyone is able to voice their opinions at the meetings. They are focused on the well-being of the students. Contact SGA President Camron Perry at cfp2258@email.vccs.edu to learn more about getting involved! Looking for a sport that makes you work up a sweat while having fun? Then join the Tennis Club. Playing tennis has many benefits - physical, social, and emotional. Whether you are a first timer or have been playing tennis since you were young, come check out PVCCs Tennis Club. Game, set, match come play with us. For more information contact Tom Cude at tec2453@email.vccs.edu. Ultimate Frisbee Club Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer Here at Piedmont we have numerous athletic clubs, like the Ultimate Frisbee Club. They all meet up and just have a good time and play Frisbee, usually on Fridays. They also compete in various tournaments. To learn more, contact Kyle Sherrill at ks21504@email.vccs.edu. Photography by Samantha Prentiss Student Veterans of America Katya Beisel, Staff Writer Given that PVCC was recently ranked a top college for military service members and their families, it is no surprise that PVCC has a chapter of Student Veterans of America. The group is open to former service members as well as their spouses and eligible family members. According to chapter Vice President Victor Salas, the SVA serves as a community and support network for student veterans and their family members. A key focus of the group is aiding veterans in making the transition into campus life and the PVCC community. The SVA regularly hosts cookouts for the group. Contact staff advisor Jackie Fisher at jfisher@pvcc.edu for more information. Photography by Samantha Prentiss Virginia 21 Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer The Virginia 21 club is a group of students that advocates supporting the younger generation in the political world. Their main goals are to keep college affordable, increase job prospects after graduation, and engage young people in politics. To get involved, contact Xavier Roberts at fxr28@email.vccs.edu. Page 13 Riddle Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer I am the crimson shade of blooming lycoris, The fading glimmer of a coals light, And as golden as a sun beams kiss. I am the verdant glimmering of an emerald, bright, The cerulean oceans washing tropical beaches clean, The lapis shade of the sky on a moonlit night. I am in the petals of the violets that dwell in the shade, A rare, but natural sight am I I shimmer brightly, and then I fade. Find more riddles on piedmontforum.com No Luck Chuck by Bridgette Lively Page 14 Interesting Facts: 100 Years Ago, 1915 Bridgette Lively, Staff Writer It can be fascinating to think back to years past and what was the big news of time. Here are some interesting things I found about this time a hundred years ago. Source: www.onthisday.com June 27Temperature reaches 100F (38C) in Fort Yukon, Alaska (the state record) October 37.8 earthquake shakes Pleasant Valley, Nevada October 9Woodrow Wilson becomes the first US president to attend the World Series October 12Ford Motor Company under Henry Ford manufactures its one millionth Model T automobile Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 15 Classifieds National Register to Vote Day, September 22 Register to vote with TurboVote! PVCC is expanding National Register to Vote Day to a weeklong, all-out effort to register as many students, faculty, and staff as possible. On November 3, Virginians will go to the polls to elect House of Delegate members, State Senators, and local officials. Then, March 1 is Presidential Primary day in Virginia. You cant vote if you are not registered. This year PVCC is using an online registration tool called TurboVote. By registering this way, you can receive text messages and emails that remind you of upcoming elections and provide information about your voting location. In order to get you registered, some faculty will be registering students in class, the TurboVote link will be available the PVCC Facebook page, and registration stations will be available in the Bolick Student Center. Democracy is Not a Spectator Sport! Register to vote! Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information or visit our website : www.piedmontforum.com 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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Managing Editor Antonia Florence Assistant Editor Elise Hansen Photography Editor Samantha Prentiss Staff Writers/Copyeditors Katya Beisel Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Devan Kaufman Jackie Layton Bridgette Lively Aerial Perkins-Goode Karen Riordan Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Ryan Winkler Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Caroline Morris Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com Summer 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College Anne Holton to speak at PVCC Commencement Ceremony Michael Urpi, Staff Writer Piedmont Virginia Community College has announced its speaker for the 2015 commencement ceremony. Anne Holton, Virginias Secretary of Education, will be the honored guest for PVCCs 42nd commencement at John Paul Jones Arena on Thursday, May 14 at 6 p.m. Anne Holton is an esteemed member of Governor Terry McAuliffes administration. Holton graduated from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University and earned a law degree from Harvard Law School. Holton has received numerous honors in her time of service including the Annie E. Casey Foundations Life Award of Distinction and the Richmond YWCA Outstanding Woman in Law award in 2006. She is a great advocate for youth education, serving on the Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation Board from 2010-2012 and on the Voices for Virginia Children Board from 2010-2013. In addition to her advocacy for education, Holton was Miss Spring Fling? See pages 10-11 involved in foster-care reforms during her husband Virginia Senator Tim Kaines tenure as governor. Her work in fostercare led to the For Keeps: Families for All Virginia Teens program, which was designed to help older foster children find permanent and strong families to grow up in. Holton, a former Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court judge, is working hard with Governor McAuliffe to reform Virginias public school system and expand preschool programs along with an overhaul of the standardized testing system. In This Issue Photography by Samantha Prentiss PVCC Events -pg. 2 Club News -pgs. 4-5 Local Events -pgs. 6-7 One Book Winners -pg. 9 Reviews Piedmont Profile Fun pgs. 12-13 -pg. 17 -pgs. 18-19 DATES TO REMEMBER Dedication of the Keats Science Building April 30, 4:30-5:30 p.m. PVCC Graphic Con 2015 May 1, 5-7 p.m., Bridge Progressive Art Initiative PVCC Spring Dance Concert May 1 & 2, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Debut of The Fall Line May 4, noon, North Mall Meeting Room Final Exams May 511 Radiography Program Pinning Ceremony May 12, 6 p.m., Dickinson Nurses Pinning Ceremony May 14, 1-3 p.m., John Paul Jones Arena PVCC Graduation May 14, 6 p.m., John Paul Jones Arena PVCC Soccer Club soccer game May 26, 11 a.m., Monticello High School First session of summer classes start May 26 Adult Student Life Club Reception June 18, 6 7:30 p.m., North Mall Meeting Room Second session of summer classes start June 30 Fall classes start August 20 Book Swap/ Donation Event May 5 through 11 It is the end of the semester, and we are all ready for a break from studying. But before we head out the school door, maybe we should be asking ourselves, Do I have the textbooks I need for next semesters classes, or Do I really want to keep these text books for the classes I just completed? If you are asking yourself either or both of these questions, come to the SGA Book Swap/Donation event. The SGA Book Swap/Donation is finals week, May 5 through 11. Monday through Friday, SGA member will volunteer to man an information table in the North Mall Meeting Room from noon to 1 p.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.. SGA members will assist students interested in swapping or donating their text books. We all feel the pinch in our wallets when it comes time to purchase textbooks for classes. Why not participate in a student-tostudent event where you can swap or donate textbooks and give your wallet a break? ...PVCCs is looking for YOU to join. EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. HAVE FUN. Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information Page 2 Chocolate Chow Down and Gallery Exhibit Katya Beisel, Staff Writer PVCC student artists unveiled their work at the opening of the Annual Student Exhibition on April 24. The event coincided with PVCCs Seventh Annual Chocolate Chow Down, preparations for which had Professor Beryl Solla in Dickinsons small catering kitchen as early as nine a.m. The exhibit features the work of many PVCC students, and the body of the collection includes paintings, prints, sculpture, and I think were gonna need a bigger pocket. ceramics. As beautiful as the Photography by Katya Beisel works are, some of the artists found their creations difficult to achieve. of art, such as painting, drawing, or sculpture, the I had never used water-based ink before, artist has complete control over the piece. said artist Erin Concepcion, and the indirect Exhibiting her work is a first for Concepcion, form of printing was frustrating. who originally intended to study nursing before Concepcion was unaccustomed to printing, taking an art class with Professor Fenella Belle in which is an indirect art form, meaning that there order to fulfill her humanities elective. The foray is another medium in this case a plate into art led her to switch her major to liberal arts. between the artist and her canvas. In direct forms Concepcion was not the only artist who experienced a first that evening. Art and Education double major Ashley Bell also had work featured in the exhibit. While not her first show, this years exhibition marked the first time Bell has sold a piece of her artwork. However, the selling of students work was not the primary goal of the event. According to Erin Concepcion, exhibiting students work gives them a chance to be featured and not just graded. Seeing other people appreciate your effort is important. The exhibition of student artwork will be open until early September 2015 Photography by Katya Beisel during Dickinsons usual hours. Page 3 PVCC Students Win D-League Championship Katya Beisel, Staff Writer After a close game, a team of PVCC students won the local D-League basketball championships on Sunday, April 12. In the first minutes of the game, spectator and PVCC student Treshawne Henderson summed up the players attitude: the boys in red want it. At that point, PVCC led 8-0. They quickly lost the lead and ended the first half trailing their opponents at 25-27. However, the PVCC players returned from halftime quicker, sharper, and more driven than ever. Despite numerous fouls on both sides, their speed, teamwork, and heart spurred them on to regain the lead in the second half after a third tie at 31 even. When the final buzzer sounded, the board read 47 for the home team and 54 for PVCC. After the game, the teams coach Larry Sandridge said, [the boys] played their hearts out. The father of player Aaron Sandridge, Coach Sandridge described the team as, a bunch of great, young guys. Currently, it is unclear if the team will return to the D-League next season. The Forum Takes The D.C. Newseum Katya Beisel, Staff Writer On Saturday, April 11, members of PVCCs The Forum participated in the student papers first club trip since Dr. Tamara Whyte became the groups faculty sponsor last semester. The group visited Washington D.C.s Newseum, which is dedicated to the history, nature, and future of journalism and media. The Newseum featured numerous and varied exhibits both permanent and temporary. The temporary exhibits ranged from New York Heralds coverage of President Lincolns assassination, to a gallery of great and historic books such as Miltons A reopagitica and Mary Wollstonecrafts A V indication of the Rights of Women. Coincidentally, the Newseum stands upon the same spot as the National Hotel, where John Wilkes Booth spent the night before assassinating President Lincoln at Fords Theatre. The permanent exhibits are more poignant and at times heartbreaking, such as the Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery and the Journalists Memorial, the former of which honors the tremendous suffering and tragedy reported in the news. Forum Staff on top floor of Newseum Photography by Tamara Whyte The Journalists Memorial is a moving and enduring tribute to the men and women who have lost their lives reporting the news and informing the public. Ways to become active in The Forum include submitting articles to Dr. Tamara Whyte (twhyte@pvvc.edu) for publication as a guest writer, joining The Forum club as a writer, photographer, or editor, or signing up for ENG 121 Introduction to Journalism I in the Fall 2015 semester. Page 4 Clubs get Their Hands Dirty for Earth Day Jackie Layton, Staff Writer What do you get when you add dirt, plants, water, 20 energetic people, sun, wind, and pizza? Earth Day 2015 at PVCCs organic garden hosted by the Horticulture and Environmental Club. This years spring planting was a fun mix of students, staff, faculty, and even a few community members excited about getting the garden season off to a good start. Club member and natural science major Fletcher Gore said, I like how our garden is Volunteers planted the seedlings. making a Photography by Jackie Layton difference and how it was created for us. He said he was formed to provide students and community plans to come and members with an organic garden to learn about work during the environmentally-sound horticulture and summer along sustainable practices. Each year, produce from the with other club garden is donated to local food banks in central members. Virginia. Casey Chen, Though a few community groups also The seedlings were ready. acting vice volunteer time to maintain the garden, help from Photography by president of the students and other groups is especially needed in Jackie Layton club, said, I the summer months. really enjoy Anyone interested in working in the garden working in the garden. She has been a club (summer or fall) should contact Lerman to member for two semesters and plans to continue. schedule (dlerman@pvcc.edu). There were plenty of gardening gloves and tools available for everyone to use. After the seedlings were planted, club members watered the garden. Soaker hoses (hoses with many holes) were laid out carefully for later watering. Horticulture and Environmental Club advisor David Lerman enthusiastically answered questions and guided the group as they worked. He said he hopes to have all eight garden beds full this season. He and several club members planted a tree along the inside fencing. Started in 2007, PVCCs Planting a tree. Photography by Jackie Layton Horticulture & Environmental Club Page 5 15oth Anniversary of Gen. Lees Surrender Michael Urpi, Staff Writer Appomattox, Virginia, celebrated the 150th anniversary of General Lees surrender to General Grant from April 9-12. The site was home to numerous events. I was there on Sunday, April 12th to experience the reenactment of the Confederate soldiers stacking and surrendering their arms to the Union soldiers. The procession started with a group of Union soldiers marching through the Appomattox site until they reached a dirt road where they proceeded to form a line of soldiers facing the dirt road in front of them. A group of Confederate Soldiers came from the opposite direction and formed a line facing the Union soldiers. The commanding officers called out an order, and the Confederate soldiers began to stack their guns together in piles. Afterward, they removed other items they had on them such as their canteens and satchels and placed them on top of the arms they. One of the Confederate commanders shouted another command, prompting the soldiers to form a new line and march along. Once the Confederate soldiers were out of sight, the Union soldiers followed suit and marched away from the stacking area. There were many other activities at Appomattox in addition to the reenactment. Park rangers stood by telling stories of the Civil War and describing how the two famous generals, General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army and General Ulysses S. Grant of the Union Army, came together and reached the terms of surrender. Volunteers dressed up as either Confederate or Union soldiers and interacted with visitors. A band of Union soldiers played classic songs from the war using Civil War instruments. It was a great place for people to relive an important moment in Civil War history. Photography by Michael Urpi Page 6 Charlottesville Municipal Band Karen Riordan, Staff Writer The principal oboe player walked onto center stage; all eyes were on the gentleman as he played the distinctive pitch of a Concert A . The stage came to life as the other musicians slowly joined in, tuning their instruments to the loan note, teasing the audience with a brilliant collective tone. The side curtain rustled and the crowds gaze shifted to the right. The conductor of The Charlottesville Municipal Band, Stephen Laymen, entered. PVCCs Dickinson Theatre was electric. The woodwind, percussion, brass, and string sections snapped to attention as Layman commanded the stage. With a whirl of the wand, the performers plunged into a spirited rendition of The Star Spangled Banner. The audience rose to its feet, singing with the instrumentalists quick, jazz-like tempo, clapping and cheering when the National Anthem came to an end. The Spring Concerts first selection was sensational. [Layman] always starts his concerts with the National Anthem, said Dori Hoffman-Latter, a retired special education teacher in the audience. Hoffman-Latter and her husband came to hear their friend, Frank Boone, a trombone player in the band. Its thrilling. We just love this group. They play the kind of music we like to hear. The second piece was Leonard Bernsteins Slava. The audience heard an unexpected sound midway through the piece. The musicians launched into a syncopated clapping beat with their hands. At the end, the instrumentalists paused and shouted, Slava! in unison. The crowd seemed to enjoy this surprise, smiling and clapping as well. Midway through the concert, the audience was delighted to hear guest player, Chris Hays. A junior at Charlottesville High School, Hays wowed the crowd with his performance of Concertante for Alto Saxophone & Band by Clare Grundman. Winner of the James W. Simmons Concerto Competition and Dr. Genevieve Murphy Scholarship, Hays brought the crowd to their feet again with a standing ovation. No doubt they were impressed with the young mans ability to play a five-minute piece from memory. Gary Foster, percussionist and guest conductor, engaged the audience in a lesson on percussion rhythms. We in the municipal band like to think the audience should learn something, Foster said with a laugh. He invited them to hold up their fingers and learn the paradiddles together. The beloved Eleanor Dickerson received special recognition as the Municipal Bands librarian, serving from 1959-2015 an impressive 56 years. Layman shared poignant words about Dickerson, presenting her with a gift. She, too, received a standing ovation for dedication to the citys band. The concert ended with John Philip Sousas Glory of the Yankee Navy. The piccolo, playing precisely one octave higher than the flute, could be heard over the roar of the band. When the selection ended, again, the crowd rose to its feet to show their appreciation. Layman said, I know its really pretty outside, but would you hang around if we played another Sousa march? The listeners were happy to oblige. As the theatre emptied, some walked up to the stage to thank the members of the band. Others gathered around the talented high school saxophone player, showing their appreciation for his gift of music. Loved it, said Hoffman-Latter, It was fun, lively, peppy, and energetic. I especially liked hearing the young boy play. Ill be back this summer. The 88-member community band has openings in its clarinet and trombone sections. Rehearsals are from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays. For more details go to www.cvilleband.org. For audition information, call: 295-9850. The next concert of the Charlottesville Municipal Band will be on June 2 at Charlottesvilles Paramount Theatre. Page 7 Wild Free Movie Friday at PVCC Karen Riordan, Staff Writer There was an air of camaraderie at Free Movie Friday. PVCCs Dickinson Theatre was packed. Almost every seat was taken, including those on the first row. The moviegoers, Charlottesville residents and fans of all ages, arrived early and seemed anxious to enjoy another free movie. The viewers were there to watch the true story of one woman who abandoned everything and made a trek across the Pacific Crest Trail. Twenty-two year-old Cheryl Strayed walked into the wild. Wild, a film directed by Jean-Marc Vallee, written by Nick Hornby, is based on Cheryl Strayeds 2012 book Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. The book was a #1 New York Times bestseller. The movie featured actress Reese Witherspoon, as Strayed, and Laura Dern, as Strayeds mother. Strayed was facing challenging events in her life, including the death of her beloved mother. Soon after her mothers death, Strayed went through a difficult divorce and began to rely on drugs and sex to cope with the pain; she felt as though she had lost everything. She decided to risk it all and walk over 1,000 miles. Wild tells the story of Strayeds daring quest to conquer the Pacific Crest Trail, a stretch of territory from the Mohave Desert to Washington State. Not only did Strayed attempt to walk the trail, but she also did it alone. John Brickman sat in the audience with his wife. I like rooting for the underdog. Whoever thought [Cheryl Strayed] would walk all the way across the coast? Not me, he said. Strayed encountered many obstacles along the way. An inexperienced hiker, Strayed struggled to manage the hardships of the great outdoors, such as wild animals, unruly fellow hikers, and boots a Photography by Kellyn Torres Moviegoers flock to Free Movie Fridays. Photography by Karen Riordan size too small. Emily Johnston, a 35-year-old schoolteacher, enjoyed the film. However, she said she liked the book much better. The movie didnt seem to follow the book too closely, she said, I felt like there was too much emphasis on the troubles in [Strayeds] past. There were too many flashbacks of drugs and sex. In true Hollywood fashion, the film attempted to lure its audience with drama. W ild featured a beautiful Reese Witherspoon, trying to appear dirty and disheveled. There were a few scenes in the movie that were farfetched. Midway through the movie, Strayed encountered a fox outside of her tent; this was at a time when Strayed was questioning her choice to make the trek. The fox appeared at the end of the movie as well, when Strayed reached her destination. The cinematography of the Pacific Crest Trail was breathtaking. If the attendance is anything like that at previous Free Movie Nights, moviegoers should arrive early to get a seat. Page 8 One Book Contest Winners Congratulations to the winners of the Spring One Book contests! The winners of the Spring 2015 One Book Essay Contest were: Grand prize winner: Karen Riordan 2nd prize winner: Brendan O'Toole 3rd prize winner: Annette Cashatt For the contest, students were asked to write about how the book Breaking Night changed their perceptions. Their essays can be read at www.pvcc.edu/onebook. First Place Winners: Cassidy Tinnell, Angela Nebel, and Gaelen Edwards On April 23, 4 teams of PVCC students competed in at Breaking Night trivia contest. The top three teams all won prizes. The first place prizes included a free three-credit class, a Kindle Fire, or a $100 Amazon gift card. Second Place Winners: Saronda Ross and Annnette Cashatt Look for more One Book activities in Fall 2015. Next years book is The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Third Place Winners: Kellyn Torres, Karen Riordan, and Kaitlyn Duvalois Page 9 Fun for All at PVCCs Spring Fling Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer As the end of the school year is approaching, PVCCs office of Student Affairs and the Student Government Association hosted a Spring Fling event for faculty, PVCC students, family and friends. The event took place outside of the Bolick Student Center where many games were set up for the students, families and faculty to participate in. The dunk tank, pingpong and live music by Susan Greenbaum were presented to all to enjoy the weather, each other and the tasty food that was from the Korner. Thomas Fortune says the events that PVCC has area great way for students to get to know each other and to enjoy themselves as they get ready to go into weeks of exams. He said, Everyone deserves to have a good time, relax and eat good food when getting ready for a big time part of the school year. I had a blast, and I hope next years Spring Fling event will be greater than this years Spring Fling, says Phillip Warrior. Photography by Samantha Prentiss Page 10 Page 11 Once in not Enough for PVCC Jackie Layton, Staff Writer Throbbing pain, overflowing soap bubbles, a cuddled infant, a sling for an injured shoulder. These were some of the scenes portrayed by the talented troupe of 16 actors of Once is not Enough to a full house in the Maxwell Black Box Theatre Friday, April 3. As the actors introduced themselves in pairs to the audience, interacting with each other through dance moves, they captured the immediate trust of those who would share their life stories with them. Throughout the evening, the troupe mentored by Brad Stoller, PVCCs Coordinator of Theatre Productions, spontaneously acted on his every cue, moving stage props, using different dance moves such as ballet to act out an army scene and scarfs to represent many of the scenes. Stoller questioned the story tellers from the Tell Us Chair positioned on the side of the stage, asking about the people who were part of the story and key points. He then asked them to choose actors from the troupe to play the part of each person in the story, who remarkably brought out the emotions that each storyteller wanted to express. A woman, named Leslie, shared her experience as an 8-year-old Girl Scout at camp. She said she did not have a lot of friends. She remembered eating smores and singing songs. She told of making a friend with another girl who was nice to her and who had a lot of friends. Leslie said there were strict rules about bedtime that they had to have a flashlight and a buddy to go to the outhouse during the night. She said she woke up that night but was too embarrassed to tell anyone; so she went out by Photography by Jackie Layton herself and Photography by Jackie Layton forgot her flashlight. Then, she got lost in the woods and spent a cold, fearful night in an abandoned tent. When she awoke in the morning, she found her way back to camp, but no one even noticed she had been gone. To play her part, Leslie chose a surprising actor from the troupe a stout, football-player type young man who remarkably acted out all the feelings of an 8-yearold girl. The enchanting part of the story unfolded when Stoller said, You get three wishes at the end of the story. How would you have liked it to turn out? He explained that this is where deep healing occurs from what could have been. Leslies three choices were played out perfectly to everyones delight. Following the performance, it was obvious that the audience and the performers enjoyed the evening from the smiles on everyones faces. A Charlottesville resident said she had never been to improv, but loved it and marveled how the troupe was ready to do anything. Darlene Sacco, an actor from the troupe, said, I have performed in theatre before, but this was my first time doing improv and I love it. Stoller shared how much he enjoyed working with the cast, . . . and how generous they were with each other in the process of sharing their own stories and taking on this challenge to perform totally improvisational for the school. Playback theatre is a healing form of art performed in more than 75 countries around the world. It is based on finding the heart of a story through music, movement, fabric, and voice. It is performed in venues such as prisons, nursing homes, differently-abled communities and other public settings. Page 12 Review: Ernie G Comedy Night Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer As part of Latino Week at the University of Virginia (April 10), the Latino Student Alliance invited speaker Ernie G, a Latino empowerment comedian from Los Angeles. I have seen Ernie twice before today, and like always his shows have been filled with emotion, brilliance and empowerment. Ernie G truly moves and inspires the audience. After all, that is what he promises to do in every show. He encourages Latino youths to chase after their dreams and love themselves, no matter how bad their situation is. With his humorous anecdotes from his early life to his current situation, Ernie G focuses on bringing out the best part of his listeners. Though the crowd at the University of Virginia was different than others that he has encountered in his previous shows, by the end of the night he got a laugh from everyone in the auditorium. Near the end of his show he gives a brief anecdote of how he found his path to a better life. He said, "I got arrested for drunk drivingI lost my job and didnt have any money I was sitting on the floor and I was holding trash, I hit rock bottom. I called to the hospital, checking up on to my tia (aunt). I said can I come visit you? She said qudate con tu mama. (Stay with your mom) Ill never stop regretting I never went to see my aunt. Why? The next day my cousin called. She was dead. It was just after her death that Ernie G decided to go back to college, finish his studies and become a beautiful educated person because, after all, if it is to be it was up to him alone to decide his fate and become a better person and change the negative connotation that sometimes comes with being a Latino. Review: One Mic Stand Ryan Winkler, Staff Writer The latest edition of PVCCs One Mic Stand gathered a diverse group of talents, including students as well as other members of the Charlottesville community. With comedians, singers, musicians, a novelist, and even a hip-hop artist, it was a pleasant array of different acts. The night began with two comedy acts, the first talking about why people enjoy music so much. The second poked fun at old age from an 80-year-old point of view. The latter involved an in-depth description of the so-called Super Senior Olympics to the great amusement of other performers of the night and the audience alike. A spoken word performance followed the two comedy acts. It was a moving piece about a womans struggle with changing from a life of hedonism and crime to a life of responsibility and motherhood. Her emotionally-charged performance garnered a raucous round of applause upon completion. The next act involved a young author reading two excerpts from his novel. Both excerpts happened to be dream sequences from the mind of a criminal. After the novelist, a man recited some of his personal writing, which were mainly influenced by his late fathers teachings to him about life. The first piece involved what his father taught him about being a man. The second piece involved the speakers experience with posttraumatic stress from military service. He said that The Things They Carried by Tim OBrien was a major influence in this writing. Both were emotional, well written, and well received by the audience. Wrapping things up, there was a poem/spoken word performance, a hip-hop artists performance of a few verses of his work, several singers and a guitarist, and finally another comedian. Most notably of these was the guitarist and songwriter, who performed two original songs, to a great response from the audience. Page 13 Wake-Up Call in Environmental Biology Class Jackie Layton, Staff Writer Ground and water contamination by chemicals, plastics that do not biodegrade causing death of sea animals and birds, and dwindling water resources were among the troubling conditions recently discussed in PVCCs Environmental Biology class. Thousands of waterways all over the U.S. have been affected, requiring expensive, large scale clean-up efforts. Some sites are so massive that it will take many years to complete. When asked what stood out about the class, one student majoring in business said, It has been a wake-up call. I didnt know the pollution was this bad. Other students agreed with him. Some said it was depressing, but said they were glad to be aware of it. Getting a grasp of the facts presented left many feeling powerless to know what they could do about it. Student Charity Anderson enjoyed being able to go outdoors for some of their labs. She said, We toured the wastewater plant when there was snow on the ground. She also said she liked the interesting articles and documentaries that were presented in class. Another student, a psychology major, said she liked the hands on approach of the class. Someone else said she liked playing with bugs. As part of a recent lab, students tested water from PVCCs streams and ponds for organisms, pH, temperature, and water flow to determine if water quality had changed from prior testing. They found a number of different organisms (biodiversity), which means that the water has enough oxygen and the right pH to support more organisms than the few species that withstand extreme conditions. In another lab, students buried manmade items in the PVCC garden area to see how well they will break down by the end of the semester. Though environmental issues might seem out of our control at times, there are companies and individuals who are making a difference. Solar Energy Industries Association says that many U.S. companies are choosing to install solar energy systems. They said, Walmart, Kohls, Students perform a group test. Photography by Jackie Layton. Costco, Apple, IKEA and more have embraced solar energy. Collectively, the 25 companies with the most solar capacity in the U.S. now have 1,110 systems totaling 569 megawatts (MW), generating enough electricity to power more than 115,000 homes. This means reduced carbon emissions, which reduces greenhouse gases and global warming. Solar energy systems have dropped in price by as much as 80 per cent since 2008, making them much more affordable for homeowners. Jennifer Scott, professor of Bio 107 Environmental Biology and general biology courses at PVCC, sees the environmental biology course as an ever-changing curriculum that strives to present relevant, current and local environmental issues. She said, Climate change, species extinction and water resource management are underlying topics that will always be covered in the course, however, specific topics such as the Atlantic Coast pipeline change from semester to semester. Scott is co-advisor of the Horticulture and Environmental club on campus and serves on the Sustainability committee. She received a B.S. degree in Biology and M.S. degree in Aquatic Ecology from Virginia Tech. Page 14 Why We Still Need Feminism Annette Cashatt, Staff Writer Feminism is the new F word. Or at least that is how it can feel. The connotations behind the term feminism can be ambiguous at times, but it has increasingly become out of vogue to call oneself a feminist. However, PVCC's Gender Equality Club shed light on the origin of this word during its April 6 open lecture: Why Every Month is Women's History Month. It was the second meeting hosted by the Gender Equality Club and featured speaker Dr. Jennifer Toms, Assistant Professor of History at PVCC. A large group of people filled most of the seats at the lecture and many sampled the pizza offered by the Gender Equality Club. As the last few people straggled in, Dr. Toms took to the podium. She did not disappoint; after some jokes, she launched into the complex background behind the women of Americas past as well as the history of American feminism. According to Toms, feminism can be defined as the struggle for equal rights of both men and women; recognition that structural inequalities exist; and that these structural inequalities can and should be corrected. To understand Toms' definition even further, feminism benefits both men and women by encouraging the destruction of all gender stereotypes. Feminism recognizes that social constrictions exist throughout society that pressure both men and women into confined, even painful roles. Mary Wollstonecraft, Judith Murray, and Olympe de Gouges were some of the early feminists who worked to level that playing field. Dr. Toms took the lecture room on an exploration of these womens triumphs and struggles, as well as other early feminists not listed in this article. For example, in a time that it was unheard of to have a female writer, playwright, and activist, Olympe de Gouges defied societys expectations. In response to Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, she wrote Declaration of the Rights of Woman and the Female Citizen in in 1791. Her efforts to fight discrimination and sexism were rewarded by way of execution via the guillotine. After the lecture, I asked Dr. Toms what she was hoping would come from the discussion and she explained, I am hoping that the talk will inspire students at PVCC to take my course Women in American History (HIS 127) this Fall. She continued, So we get a good enrollment and I can continue to offer this important course at the college. I am hoping that those who attended will be inspired to think broadly and historically about feminism, knowledge, and powerthis message I had that what we study, write about and teach in history classrooms matters because it demonstrates that those topics, those human beings mattered and continue to matter. Toms speech was inspirational and encouraged the audience to think both critically about feminism and the power of knowledge. I had a second question for Dr. Toms: what are one or two things she hoped people will understand about feminism? She said, I really want people to understand that the womens rights movement of the 19th century and 20th century feminism has always really been about extending human rights to all women equivalent to those historically exercised by a rather limited range of men. She said, Feminism is really about moving human societies around the globe towards full gender equalitythe equal exercise and protection of peoples human rights. It just happens that historically female people have and continue to be disadvantaged and at times outright oppressed by various forms of structural sexism...Structural sexism is a thing feminism wishes to end. Thomas concluded, We need feminism. Page 15 Leadership for Women at PVCC Jackie Layton, Staff Writer Building upon strengths and overcoming fears were among the topics discussed at the introductory event Lean In PVCC for staff and faculty members on April 9. Based on Sheryl Sanburgs book Lean In, the group is intended for those interested in developing leadership skills and reaching their full potential. A feeling of acceptance and openness permitted the sharing of thoughtful life experiences as three questions were addressed in the hour-long discussion. First, attendees were asked to tell a story about accomplishments that helped them become who they are. Second, they were asked to talk about women who had influenced their lives. Lastly, they were asked to think about what leadership quality they would like to possess and then share it at the next meeting. The meetings will be held monthly. For more information, contact Erin F. Hughey-Commers (ehughey-commers@pvcc.edu). Sheryl Sanberg is an American technology executive, activist, and author. She is the chief operating officer of Facebook. The overwhelming response to her 2010 TEDTalk on the ways women are held back (and the way they hold themselves back) was the inspiration for the book Lean InWomen, Work and the Will to Lead. Sanberg shares personal stories and offers practical advice to help women achieve their goals. The book challenges us to think about what women can do and to work together to create a more equal world for women and men. Faculty Recital Showcases Talented Department Antonia Florence, Staff Writer After flowing down a waterfall of steps, I sat in anticipation. The Piedmont Virginia Community College Facility Music Recital was about to begin on the V. Earl Dickinson Buildings main stage. Previously postponed due to inclement weather, it was held March 29, a sunny Sunday afternoon. Marco Escobar, PVCCs violin, viola and cello instructor, was the first to appear on stage. He played his violin with finesse, grace and urgency. His style took the listener to the brink of ecstasy and then gently back to reality. Dr. Arnold Popkin, a retired dentist who performs regularly in the area, provided piano accompaniment on the glistening black Baby Grand piano. Ruth Ann Bishop, voice and piano professor at PVCC, had four vocal selections, which were about different types of love. She was accompanied by Gina Tuck, guest performer, who exuded confidence. David Wilson is PVCCs saxophone, clarinet and flute instructor. I felt quiet contentment as the first notes emanated from his sax. His second selection had our heads bobbing in time. Dr. Kay Bethea, Professor of Theater and Music at PVCC, played the piano with fluid movement and apparent joy which projected nicely through her chosen melodies. Melody Z. Day, one of two voice instructors at PVCC, sang with her entire body. She allows the character she portrays to take over her expressive face, enriching her performance. Even though most of her selections were not in English, she left little doubt of the story she told. Gina Tucks piano accompaniment formed a great duet with Days voice. We were then treated to Dr. Bethea and Bishop once again, who played four-handed pieces, sitting side-by-side at the same piano. They certainly increased the excitement. The recital closed with a trio consisting of Tuck at the piano, Bishop finally unleashing her voice and belting out, Love is where you Find it along with Days clear voice and expressive face. This was a great hour and half spent enjoying the talents some of our PVCC faculty possess. Page 16 Piedmont Profiles: Michael Rahilly Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Dr. Michael Rahilly, Assistant Professor of Psychology, became a faculty member at Piedmont Virginia Community College last fall. After teaching at community colleges, state colleges and universities, Dr. Rahilly has found he prefers teaching at the community college level, where there is a diverse student population. He has always had a real love of learning and discovery and enjoys nurturing and inspiring students who wish to immerse themselves in education. Dr. Rahilly initially attended Virginia Techs engineering program but changed his major after taking a general psychology course. He found that he enjoys working closely with people and helping them realize positive outcomes. After receiving his doctorates degree from UC-Davis, he stayed in California for approximately 14 years where he worked in the clinical field. He then moved to the southwest corner of Utah, near Zion National Park, where he resumed teaching. When one has an informal conversation with a psychologist or psychiatrist, many of us wonder if we are being analyzed as we speak. Dr. Rahilly says he does not do this anymore, because he found it exhausting and it interfered with real life. You just want to relate to them as a person. His face lit up and his voice projected passion when asked if he still gets excited about teaching. He said, I am particularly looking forward to this weeks developmental psych class, where we are talking about morality and aggression. We start with this moral dilemma, and I ask students to think about it, write down how they would act. It gets a lot of people engaged, a little Dr. Rahilly joined PVCC last fall controversy is always good." "It's nice to witness one individuals' perception of the world versus another's" and engage in broad minded thinking. Dr. Rahilly enjoys PVCC students for their ability to reason outside of the box and being able to address critical thinking questions. He summed it up by saying, Seeing students become energized in class is really rewarding. Thinking back through his academic travels, one of Dr. Rahilly's favorite places is the northern California and Oregon coastal region. However, he is happy to be back in Virginia where he can pursue one of his hobbies gardening. With his wifes ranching background and his childrens natural interests, gardening is a family event. He is looking forward to starting his vegetable plants and choosing which fruit trees he will be planting. Page 17 Riddles Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer I hold all colors and yet am clear, I can summon hope, and banish fear. Bright as diamonds, loud as thunder, Never stills a thing of wonder. Iron roof glass walls, Burns and burns, yet never falls. Vast stretches of sand, A boat come ashore from sea, A silvery tree All joined by one strand The thing that defines from others No Luck Chuck by Bridgette Lively Interesting Facts: The Human Body Bridgette Lively, Staff Writer Your nose can remember 50,000 different smells. The human body and how it functions is fascinating. New things continue to be discovered. A pair of feet have 500,000 sweat glands and can produce more than a pint of sweat a day The following interesting facts about the body are The human head is one-quarter of our total from www.howstuffworks.com. length at birth, but only one-eighth our total Similar to fingerprints, everyone has a unique length by the time we reach adulthood. tongue print. Page 18 Shakespeares Cyphers Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer 19-8-1-12-12 20-15 1 9 3-15-13-16-1-18-5 19-21-13-13-5-18-19 19-15-14-14-5-20 20-8-5-5 4-1-25 5-9-7-8-20-5-5-14 Hint: 3 = C and D = 4 Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 19 Classifieds Looking for Fall classes? Consider these: SSC 210 - Women in Society. It will consider the role gender plays in America. Because the course covers three disciplines (English, Sociology, and Political Science) students will read about and discuss various issues related to gender and politics, the social construction of gender, and women as writers of their own literature. The course transfers as a social sciences credit. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff Assistant Editors Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley SOC 210Survey of Physical and Cultural Anthropology. Why are humans the way we are? From the human body to human behaviors, anthropology will take you on a journey across time and space to answer this question and more. Photography Editor Samantha Prentiss ENG 121Introduction to Journalism. Inter ested in seeing your work in The Forum? ENG 121 offers students a chance to learn about journalistic writing and get their work in print. This 12week class will start in September. Staff Writers/Copyeditors Katya Beisel Zachary Carter Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Devan Kaufman Jackie Layton Bridgette Lively Michael McGrew Jordan Orme Aerial Perkins-Goode Karen Riordan Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Ryan Winkler Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to PVCCs Contact us at theforum@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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Marketing Scott Cast Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com April 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College Grand Opening of PVCC Branch of the UVA Credit Union Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer No one has handed me a pig before, said President Frank Freidman at the UVA Community Credit Union opening. Piedmont recently opened a credit union branch, and the students and staff could not be anymore excited. On Monday, March 16, the Bolick Student Center was packed full of important people just waiting for the ribbon cutting. Rebecca Cartwell, vice president of PVCCs community relations, was exuberant about having a credit union at Piedmont, We are really excited to have the credit union here at Piedmont. One thing weve seen during the recession [was] a lot of adults needed guidance in the financial area of life. At the credit union opening, Piedmont welcomed three How does Title IX impact you? See page 3 individuals: Delegate David Toscano, Delegate Steve Landis, and Scott Leake who represented Representative Robert Hurt. Delegate Landis mentioned that he lived on the other side of the mountain, but Piedmont is one of his favorite places on this side. Having a community credit facility at Piedmont will help students with the financial guidance that is so desperately needed. College can be expensive; students should learn to budget accordingly for the coming years. In This Issue Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Photography by Samantha Prentiss PVCC Events -pg. 2 Student IDs -pg. 5 Culture Series -pg. 6 Festival of the Book pg.8-9 Horticulture Club -pg. 12 Piedmont Profile -pg. 13 Fun -pgs. 14-15 DATES TO REMEMBER John McCutchen Performance March 28, 7:30 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building PVCC Music Faculty Recital March 29, 3 pm , Main Stage, Dickinson Building International Food Fest March 30, 11:30 am to 1 pm, North Hall Meeting Room Campus Clean Up March 31, 11 am to 1 pm, Main Campus Meet and Greet Lunch April 1, 11:50 am, Bolick Center, Main Building Once is Not Enough April 2,3,4, 7:30 pm, and April 4, 2:30 pm, Dickinson Building One Mic Stand April 9, 7 pm, Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building Film Screening and discussion: Fiji Mermaid April 10, 7-9 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building Charlottesville Municipal Band April 12, 3:30 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building Academic and Leadership Awards April 16, 4 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building Free Movie Friday, Selma April 17, 7:30 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building PVCC Student Music Recital April 21, 5 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building Spring Fling April 22, 11 am to 3 pm, East/Student Terrace, Main Building Super Pi Day Celebration Idette Charlie, Staff Writer The Super Pi Day event was for young math students from surrounding schools. It occurred at PVCC on 3/14/15. This date corresponds with the first digits of it number represented by pi. This event was a geek math time, said Diane Valade, assistant professor of mathematics. The math club sponsored Super Pi Day as a fun time for creativity and imagination. Super Pi Day was special because students got a chance to show off and find another side of themselves in applying math. According to Valade, the objective was for students to think outside the box, to explore, and to challenge themselves to use math as a fun and creative skill. PVCCs math club hosted Super Pi Day to involve students creatively and draw them in a new direction. The chance to use math skills in problem solving is exciting and provides students with a real world challenge. The event showed math can be fun. But more importantly, it presented math as something more than an interest or skill. Events like Super Pi Day open avenues to discover and explore ways to utilize math outside of the classroom. Gallery Exhibit Opening Reception April 24, 5-7 pm, Dickinson Building Improv Night April 24, 7:30 pm, Maxwell Theatre, Dickinson Building PVCC Chorus Spring Concert April 26, 3 pm, Main Stage, Dickinson Building Ping-Pong Tournament April 29. Turn in registration by April 5 ...PVCCs is looking for YOU to join. EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. HAVE FUN. Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information Page 2 Title IX at PVCC: What you should know Jackie Layton, Staff Writer complaints filed with the college. Students or prospective students who believe they have With four more schools added to now more witnessed or experienced discriminatory than 100 colleges and universities under conditions or discriminatory acts inclusive of investigation for the handling of sexual violence sexual misconduct, sexual violence, or sexual reports, students might be wondering where harassment should report their concerns to Atkins PVCC stands on being prepared to handle these in person (Room 810-A) or email and other types of incidents on campus. (jatkins@pvcc.edu) or by phone (434.961.6567). PVCC President Frank Friedman leads and Title IX policy options are presented to the manages 5,500 students and 182 person reporting an incident at the full-time faculty and staff. PVCCs first meeting. Subsequent meetings Human Resources Manager, may include referrals to Jennifer Atkins says, President community services as necessary. Friedman takes everyones safety Use of alcohol or drugs should very seriously and is a strong not deter reporting of an incident. supporter of Title IX. All staff Though PVCC does not condone and faculty have been trained in underage drinking, the colleges Title IX during convocation in primary focus will be on the January 2015. More training and reported allegation, not on alcohol guidelines will be available by July and drug violations. 2015 and legislative changes are Title IX policies include being closely followed. How it will specific guidelines about what to be taught to all PVCC students is do immediately if anyone has also being addressed. experienced sexual violence, Title IX is as important to domestic violence, dating violence PVCCs campus as it is to every or stalking. Writing down U.S. college campus. Its purpose is all details or telling someone as to create an environment where soon as possible and not destroying members of all genders can learn any physical or electronic evidence and participate in activities without are among the important discrimination or harassment. recommendations listed. Anyone Found on PVCCs website under who wants to be proactive and College Policies, Title IX prohibits prepared for incidents such as discrimination, harassment, sexual these should become familiar with assault, domestic violence, dating all the procedures listed under violence, stalking, and retaliation section M. Sexual and Domestic Photography by and outlines procedures for how Violence Procedures. Jackie Layton these types of allegations are Though PVCC is smaller than reported and investigated. larger colleges, it has an exemplary Atkins, PVCCs Title IX coordinator, wants annual security report on its website under students to know that these types of incidents can Department of Public Safety and Campus Police. be reported to her verbally or, preferably, in Faculty, students and staff are encouraged to sign writing via an online form on PVCCs up for Text and Email alerts on the college website. The Title IX Coordinator along with the website. Putting Campus Police contact numbers Title IX committee is responsible for overseeing in cell phones is a wise choice. Office: the prompt, fair and impartial investigation of 434.961.5319 and Officer: 434.981.6362. Page 3 The Writing CenterNot just for Writing Karen Riordan, Staff Writer Writing Center is a great tool for ESL students. Even for me, the English language is confusing. There, theyre, or their? Having trouble So if youre learning it for the first time, having a knowing which spelling is correct? Write it right - tutor to walk you through it would be helpful. stop by the PVCCs Writing Center to find out La Fleur said that the Writing Center is which spelling is correct. Someone will have an available to students for most all subjects. We answer. even get science students here to review lab The Writing Center is cozy and quiet. There reports, she said. are five round tables with pencils in the center of There are a few exceptions. PVCC student each, just waiting to be used. The atmosphere is Charles Yoder came by to get help. Yoder is in calm. Sunlight shines through the large windows. his third semester at Piedmont, planning to Room M617 is an optimal learning environment transfer to UVA to get a degree in Video Game for those willing to take a chance. Design. Yoder is taking Mahmood PVCCs Writing Center is a useful resource for Moghinzadehs Macroeconomics class. students who wish to discuss ideas, strengthen I love [Moghinzadeh], hes awesome, said their writing skills, and communicate their ideas Yoder, But sometimes Im like, what are you clearly to others. The Writing Center is helpful for talking about? all stages of the writing process, from writing a La Fleur checked her tutoring list and then first draft to proofreading to discussing an referred Yoder to The First Quadrant Math instructors comments. Center. The First Quadrant provides one-on-one The Writing Center has helped many students, assistance in business, math, sciences, and such as Mehri Kami and Abdolghafoor technology. La Fleur also said that there is a great Ghoochaghi, a married couple from Iran. When online tutoring option called Smarthinking. they walked into the center, Therese La Fleur, a Smarthinking is accessible through Blackboard receptionist at the and is available to Writing Center at students - virtually PVCC, greeted the at all hours. students with a warm The Writing smile. How can I Center is a valuable help you? she asked. resource for students Kami and at PVCC. There is no Ghoochaghi have cost, as the fee is been in the United covered in the States for students tuition. approximately 18 Cheerful, happy months. The couple faces, like La Fleur, asks La Fleur if she are there to help can help them find students find the help tutors for their they need for ESL12.01 class. success. Sure, said La La Fleur said, Fleur. She searched There are people her list of tutors and who come in here said, Youll be frequently, but were working with Arty. always happy to see Tutor Arty works with Kalene Caliendo La Fleur said the new faces. Photography by Karen Riordan Page 4 ID Safety for PVCC Students Karen Riordan , Staff Writer To ID or not to ID? Thats the question. For PVCC students, the answer is yes. Its a requirement for faculty, staff, and students to get an ID, said PVCC Police Chief Shawn Harrison, We need to be able to readily identify who is here. According to Harrison, the main purpose for having an identification card is for the safety and security of the campus. She said that since PVCC is an open campus, anyone can come and use the facilities. Non-students are able to use the library, meet friends, park in the parking lot, and even shower on campus. Community colleges are meant to be used by the community. For these reasons, PVCCs Police Department needs to be aware of who is walking around campus. The police are looking out for troublemakers, including people selling drugs. When people wear their IDs, it shows they are supposed to be there. Harrison said, Since 9/11, people want to know whos around them now. I want to know, Are you supposed to be here? It is a chilling reality that college campuses around the country are dealing with the aftermath of 9/11 and its impact on security issues. Its not getting better, its getting worse, said Harrison in regard to safety-related concerns, We have to be proactive instead of reactive. Harrison asked, What is the first thing you do when you go to a conference or a meeting? You put on a nametag. When you get a job in the real world, everyone wears an ID. It shouldnt be different on a college campus. It keeps the dust down, said Harrison. Harrison also said that in the event of a catastrophe, it would be important to know who was on campus. That way, security would be able to work with the police, hospital, or other emergency responders in making identifications and in getting help quickly. Is there a penalty for not having an ID? No. But as Harrison said, If you dont have your ID on you in the event of an emergency, thats your Photography by Karen Riordan penalty, not mine. Do you students need to have their IDs visible? At this point, according to Harrison, it is not required. However, she said there are conversations about that issue going on now. Harrison speculated that within the next year, it will be mandated. Yes, we may be leaning towards students, faculty and staff wearing IDs visible at all times, said Harrison, It is not a policy yet, but an act of encouragement on my part. With PVCC being an open campus, as are all community colleges, it is hard to identify visitors from the PVCC community. A student ID also can be used to receive discounts at local stores, to obtain parking decals, and to purchase discounted bus passes. IDs are used in the library as well. Chief Harrison said, Im not sure if you have noticed, but the library is requesting a student ID to check out books. It is a security measure only. Students can have their ID cards made at the Department of Public Safety & Campus Police (Main Building, room M218), located next to the entrance to the library. The cost is covered through student activities fees. In order to receive a card, students need to bring two things: a copy of a current class schedule and a valid form of ID, including a current drivers license, passport, military/ government ID, birth certificate, social security card, or voter registration card Page 5 Bridging Culture Lecture Series Katya Beisel, Staff Writer PVCC students and faculty welcomed Ray Garman as the latest speaker in the Bridging Culture series. A well establish entrepreneur, inventor, he holds a Guinness World Record, several technology patents, and is currently working on another book. However, Garmans experience in post-conflict Vietnam and Cambodia was the subject of his lecture. In Vietnam, political turmoil erupted due to growing discontent, leading to the creation of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945; decades of isolation followed. According to Garman, in the 1970s, just as Vietnam was opening up to foreign interaction and trade, the Khmer Rouge slaughtered over two million Cambodians in a period now remembered as the Cambodian Genocide. In detailing his experiences in the region, formerly Garman realized that using the threat of violence to encourage a predicted reaction in people is not always effective. He emphasized an appreciation of identity and dignity as well as abandoning our preconceptions and assumptions about other people and cultures. And that idea of otherness was the heart of Garmans message about his experiences in conflict-torn Vietnam and Cambodia. According to Garman, this us vs. them mentality is an affront to dignity in its oversimplification of the differences between humans. Humanity is diverse, and the world is enriched by that diversity of culture, ideas, and beliefs. To Garman, using those differences to divide humanity into two distinct categories is to vilify those who are different from us, and to degrade their inborn dignity beholden to them as people. Separating humanity into these two groups, as Garman pointed out, also contributes to atrocities such as the Cambodian Genocide. Garman also championed the younger generation, which he believes has the power to bridge preconceptions and forge a human community and to transform not transition the world. International Culture Speaker Ryan Winkler, Staff Writer Professor Sadhan Kumar Ghosh, head of the Mechanical Engineering Department at Jadavpur University in Kolkata, India, visited our International Club here at PVCC. Ghosh comes from West Bengal, one of the 29 states of India. He presented a lot of interesting information about Indian culture and his personal history. Ghosh helped found the UK/India Educational Research Initiative, which started in 2006, and serves to enhance the educational ties between the two countries. Ghosh particularly stressed the geography, number of Nobel Prize winners, and the fact that India is a secular country with numerous religions. The secularity of India is one of the major driving factors behind her successes and progress. India has numerous notable Nobel Prize winners. The most pertinent are Mother Teresa for peace, CV Raman for Physics, Amartya Sen for Economics, Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar for Physics, and Venkratraman Ramakrishnaan for Chemistry. Ghosh delved into the cultural facets of India, which include eating and marriage traditions. There are many marriage ceremonies in traditional Indian culture and most weddings take place over the course of three days before the bride and groom are officially married. As for traditional eating habits, most Indian meals are eaten either sitting on the floor or on low cushions or chairs, and most food is eaten with bare hands. Professor Ghosh is clearly one of the proudest Indians. Page 6 Divisions Own Perform at Monticello HS Katya Beisel, Staff Writer military. Military band concerts also provide The Second Marine recruiting Division Band dwarfed opportunities, as the audience at a March evidenced by the table 17 concert at nearby set up outside the Monticello High School. auditorium. The majority of attendees However, Sgt. were former military Daimont, a former service members and their High School musician, relatives. However, the says that the concerts men and women of the fulfill an even better Divisions Own Marine purpose. This is kind Corps Band were of a treat for us and a undeterred by poor chance to get out into turnout and even midthe community and concert microphone show these young high malfunctions. -school musicians that The set list was robust there are opportunities and varied, featuring to become classics such as Sousas professional Stars and Stripes musicians. Forever and John The band loaded up Williams Evening at Gunnery Sargent Shannon L. Farquha back onto their bus Photography by Katya Beisel Pops as well as jazz and within the hour and rock arrangements headed back to performed by smaller Richmond for the ensembles within the band. Near the end of the night. After finishing their tour of select high concert, to honor their fellow service members schools within Virginia, they will return to their and their families, the Marines performed a posting at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. medley of the official songs of all five armed service branches and invited audience members to stand and be recognized when they heard their song. We were kind of bummed, said Gunnery Sergeant Shannon L. Farquhar after the concert, but we played for the people who came. According to Marketing and Public Affairs Representative Sergeant Aaron Daimont, these concerts serve an even greater purpose. Like the other nine USMC bands, the Divisions Own fulfill a number of important roles in the Marine Corps. Their concerts create a venue for community outreach beyond military bases and Sargent Morales, Poolee Davis, Staff Sargent civilian communities with strong ties to the Moran Photography by Katya Beisel Page 7 Perfectly Imperfect: Modern Families in Novels Karen Riordan, Staff Writer You can write a thriller about the Jones family passing Cinnamon Toast Crunch on a school day, said author Erika Raskin at the Virginia Festival of the Book. Raskin, Martha Woodriff and Sonja Yoerg, were the keynote speakers at the lecture entitled Perfectly Imperfect: Novelists on the Modern Family. Sixty men and women hunkered close together within the rows of books at Charlottesvilles Barnes & Noble to listen. The first author to speak was Erika Raskin, who talked about her passion of watching modern families on reality TV. Families are the mother load of Woodriff and Raskin fiction, she said. Photo by Karen Riordan The listeners laughed along with Raskin as she read the beginning of her novel Close, a story about parenting, reality TV, and family. Close was a USA Best Book Award Finalist. The next speaker, Martha Woodriff, began her talk on a poignant note. Im interested in how our notion of family changes as we change. How do I figure out life? she said, I experience one damn thing after another. This comment drew a hearty laugh from the crowd. A native of Virginia, Woodriff once worked on Charlottesvilles downtown mall at Marthas Caf. She went on to work in a coffee shop at Sweet Briar Colleges bookstore. It inspired Small Blessings, a story of a small-town college professor, the woman he meets, and the family he never knew he had. Sonja Yoerg was the final author to share her debut novel, House Broken, a story about a veterinarian who struggles to care for her aging alcoholic mother, as well as her two teenaged children. Yoerg talked about the challenges modern families face in todays world. After the talk, the crowd swarmed the authors, asking questions and getting books signed. Shakespeares Dental Care Jackie Layton, Staff Writer How did William Shakespeare take care of his teeth? A crowd of interested onlookers at Charlottesvilles Barnes & Noble attended the Virginia Festival of the Book event: Natural Health Remedies and the Science Behind Them. Authors Barbara Grogan (500 Time-tested Home Remedies and the Science Behind Them) and Leslie Alexander (Dental Herbalism: Natural Therapies for the Mouth) shared highlights from their books. In the book 500 Time-tested Home Remedies and the Science Behind Them, Grogan outlined six pillars of health. Even though good health is largely influenced by the food we eat, Grogan said that health is not all about food; the six pillars all work together. She reviewed how the remedies were written in simple, practical steps, explaining how to use the remedy with the science referenced in the back of the book. Highlights of Grogans book included vitamin D, which is absorbed into the skin when exposed to sunlight. Fifteen (15) minutes daily without sunscreen provides all the vitamin D the body needs. Studies in the book show how garlic fights infection and how avocado is a healthy fat that benefits the skin and the brain. Of particular interest is the research on fermented foods, such as yogurt and sourdough bread and the beneficial bacteria they contain that crowds out harmful bacteria throughout the body and improves digestive problems and allergies. Page 8 Hippies, Grizzlies, Betsy RossOh My! Katya Beisel, Staff Writer Cotton gins are not drinks, Betsy Ross was a fraud, the Wright Brothers were not the first to fly, and Mark Twain thought bicycles were death traps. These were just a few of the revelations conferred upon the audience at the Virginia Festival of the Books Adventures in History presentation on March 21. The event featured authors Carter Seaton and Tim Groves, both of whom specialize in historical non-fiction. Seaton spoke about her book Hippie Homesteaders: A rts, Crafts, Music, and Living on the Land in West Virginia as well as the extensive research the book entailed. Hippie Homesteaders centers on the 60s and 70s neo-pioneers who settled in West Virginia in an attempt to disconnect from a world they were growing increasingly disenchanted with. Tim Groves, author of A Grizzly in the Mail and other Adventures in American History spent two decades working at museums, where he cultivated a love for history and its many uncanny footnotes, which are often glossed over or stricken from history books. Despite the enthusiasm and humor that dominated the event, Groves questions were not limited to trivial queries Carter Seaton and Tim Groves like, Photograph by Katya Beisel What kind of packer was Charles Lindbergh? Who owns history? Groves asked, And can oral traditions be primary sources? According to Groves, the tired notion of memorizing important dates and the places and names that go with them is part of the reason that many students dislike and remain uninterested in the subject. Groves suggests utilizing the primary sources available including oral traditions to reinvigorate history education with fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Shakespeares Dental Care Contd In Dental Herbalism: Natural Therapies for the Mouth, Alexander spoke of how inflammation in the mouth is a significant contributor to dental problems and listed anti-inflammatory herbs such as calendula and thyme. Pine and orange peel, high in vitamin C, reduce inflammation as well. These herbs with the herb yarrow, which reduces bleeding, are combined in a mouth rinse that Alexander developed. Salt water rinses were also recommended for their healing properties. Artist Michael Solsotka, an attendee and an avid listener of The Peoples Pharmacy on NPR, said, I was impressed with the speakers willingness to spend time sharing their knowledge and experience with us and how great the book festival is. Grogan, former editor-in-chief of National Geographic Books, co-authored the book 500 Time-tested Home Remedies and the Science Behind Them with Barbara H. Seeber, editor for National Geographic Books, and Linda B. White, M.D., a specialist in integrative medicine and herbal therapies. Grogan was instrumental in developing NGBs health-line, including Natures Medicine, Body: The Complete Human, Brainworks, and the Peoples Pharmacy Quick & Handy Home Remedies. Alexander, a medical herbalist and former research scientist, and Linda A. Straub-Bruce, a registered dental hygienist and member of the American Dental Hygienists Association, coauthored the book, Dental Herbalism: Natural Therapies for the Mouth. Page 9 Zzaam: Korean Fusion Cuisine Katya Beisel, Staff Writer A relatively new addition to Charlottesvilles restaurant scene, Zzaam! Fresh Korean Grill delivers swift service, quality food, and a unique blend of flavors. Zzaam! is unique among area eateries and offers an abundance of flavor from its location on 1232 Emmett Street North. Zzaam! allows customers to personalize their order in four easy steps by their choice of meat, as well as adding an egg for extra protein, followed by four to five toppings and one of fifteen sauces, all of which are made in-house What sets Zzaam! apart from other speedy Photography by Katya Beisel service eateries is the freshness of the food. According to owner Sam Gang, everything served at Zzaam! is freshly made on the premises. Nothing is frozen. We dont even have a microwave back there, Gang said. The establishment prides itself on the health of its faire, as well as affordability and quick service. In short, Zzaam! functions with the lightning speed of a fast-food joint, but forgoes the greasy pre-frozen meals commonly found on the menus of other eateries, while infusing the Barracks Road shopping community with some much needed culinary color. Were kind of a new concept, Gang said. He described the restaurants style as more of a Korean fusion than purely Korean food, which commonly features flavors that American palettes are not generally accustomed to like garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. Instead, the menu features simple Korean favorites like Bibimbap (rice bowl), Guk-su (noodles), Kimchi (spicy marinated cabbage), and Mandoo (vegetable dumplings), alongside more recognizable foods, such as soft-shell tacos, sliders, a burger, and crab pancakes. Double the Dumplings Ryan Winkler, Staff Writer Charlottesvilles downtown mall has been home to a delicious dumpling restaurant Marco and Lucas for many years now. Due to their success on the downtown mall, they have opened a location on the UVA corner, opening up a whole new market for the company. However, as of this past January, Marco and Lucas is facing competition for the dumpling lovers of Charlottesville from a new addition to the UVA corner, Got Dumplings. Marco and Lucas is a Charlottesville classic, offering a few simple Asian dishes such as dumplings, noodles, salads, and pork buns for very reasonable prices, and offers a unique sweet, sour, and slightly spicy sauce that comes with the dumplings, and is available per request with any of their other items. Each order of dumplings is only available with a pork filling, and it is sure to please the pickiest of eaters. Got Dumplings offers meal deals, which include either one or two sides to any order of dumplings for around $6.50 to $8.00. Compared to Marco and Lucas the dumplings here are slightly larger, yet not nearly as crisp, and are served with a less complex sweet and sour sauce. Otherwise, the menus are fairly similar, with options of noodles, salads, and several other items. In comparison, Marco and Lucas takes the cake in almost every regard. From, quality of dumplings, and overall vibe, it is a much better choice. Page 10 Sport Clubs Fill the Void in Athletic Programs Katya Beisel, Staff Writer Few members of PVCCs Ultimate Frisbee club braved the blustery weather on Friday, January 30, to meet and play together on the athletic field. Powerful, and frequent gusts of wind prevented the use of Frisbees for most of the practice. However, the group quickly substituted discs with a football, determined to get the most of the practice regardless of the objectionable conditions, which included a muddy field and temperatures in the low forties. Their determination to participate in student athletics is something of a necessity for PVCCs sports-oriented students, who have no other recourse for college athletics than sport clubs. The Ultimate Frisbee club, led by student Calvin Biesecker, is one of a handful of athletic clubs at PVCC. Other clubs include tennis, ping pong, soccer, dance, and unicycling (the last of which is also led by Calvin Biesecker). These clubs provide students with an opportunity to engage in physical activities within the PVCC community something typically derived from organized school-affiliated athletic programs, which PVCC lacks. The absence of organized athletics at PVCC is a drawback for some students, some of whom feel that the school lacks viable options for athletic students. I moved here from New York, and ultimate Frisbee was basically the only [sport] offered. It was that or do nothing said Corey Fullers, a member of PVCCs Ultimate Frisbee club. Other students believe that having organized sport programs would be a boon to PVCC, such as Business Administration and Accounting student John Wiggins, 21, who stated, Having legitimate teams would probably make people want to come here more. As appealing as the idea of PVCC athletics might be to some students, many recognize the practical hindrances to the creation of an athletics program here at PVCC. Firstly, the college would have to join the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), as other schools within PVCC Ultimate Frisbee Club Photography by Katya Beisel the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) have. Of course, the maintenance of facilities and equipment as well as transportation would incur added costs. Among the students who understand the absence of athletic programs is Liberal Arts major and Ultimate Frisbee club member Taylor Santiago, 22, who said, It would be sweet to have programs, but not cost effective. However, a more substantial reason to maintain clubs over athletic programs exists. As former Forum writer Jessica Bowman pointed out in a February 2012 article on the prospect of athletic programs at PVCC, competitive athletic teams are inherently discriminatory. Colleges want to field teams populated with the best players available. Naturally, with teams come try outs and the elimination of less skilled athletes. Alternatively, clubs are open to everyone, thus encouraging the culture of diversity that makes PVCC a unique and welcoming school. Thankfully, PVCC more than makes up for its lack of organized athletic programs with the extensive facilities available to students and faculty. The Fitness Center, located in M173, contains a variety of machines from stationary bikes to treadmills, as well as free weights. The campus also has outdoor athletic facilities, including tennis courts, a softball diamond and adjacent athletic field, a scenic cross-country path and a basketball court. All of these facilities are available for students to use. Information about recreational sports and activities can be found on the bulletin boards in the Bolick Student Center. Page 11 Your PVCC Garden Needs You Jackie Layton, Staff Writer Recently planted seeds will soon sprout in preparation for the annual Spring Planting planned for April 22 in PVCCs garden. Photography by It will require Jackie Layton many helping hands. Horticulture and Environmental Club advisor David Lerman hopes students will know that the garden is for them. He said, Perhaps between classes or during breaks they could visit or work in the garden to clear their heads, reduce stress and breathe some fresh air. Started in 2007, PVCCs Horticulture & Environmental Club was formed to provide students and community members with an organic garden to learn about environmentallysound horticulture and sustainable practices. Each year produce from the garden is donated to local food banks in the Central Virginia community. Because the number of students is significantly reduced during the summer, maintenance is especially needed when the plants are growing and producing the most. Anyone who remains local and helps maintain the garden gets to take home some of the harvest because it is so abundant. What better way is there to get fresh, organic produce and vitamin C in exchange for a little physical energy? Photography by Jackie Layton Vice President Jonathan Dean of the Horticulture & Environment Club said, Our garden continues to grow every year, with both members of the Horticulture & Environment Club and volunteers from the community working to keep it looking great. Several groups from UVA and local businesses have volunteered their time throughout the years to help with weeding, planting, harvesting, and general maintenance. Recent additions to the garden are the result of projects from several student groups. In the spring of 2014, students from PVCC chose the garden as the site for their SciTE scholarship project. A roof was built over the existing water tank to collect rainwater and a solar panel was installed on the roof of the shed to power the system that keeps the beds watered automatically. In the fall of 2014, volunteers from UVA's APO service fraternity raised over $4,000 and brought about one hundred workers to build the new hoop houses, as well as tackling many other maintenance projects. Hoop houses are the modified Ashaped wire Photography by Jackie Layton frames lined up in the garden, which will be wrapped with plastic to extend the growing season. Even with all this help, much of the harvest is lost every year. Let us make sure none of it ever goes to waste again. The garden needs us. The community needs our garden. We can be part of the solution to restore balance to our food and to the environment. More information is available on the Horticulture & Environment club page, Facebook page and blog. To volunteer in PVCCs gardens, email dlerman@pvcc.edu or call 434.961.5430. Page 12 Piedmont Profiles: Jennifer Hudson Antonia Florence, Staff Writer There are approximately 29 distance learning bachelors degree programs offered by ODU: Business, Communication and Writing, Criminal Justice, Engineering and Technology, and Health Sciences and Nursing. They are all accessible through WebEx from the comfort of your home if you have high-speed internet capability, PVCC and its satellite locations. If a student thinks this may be a great way to fly under the radar and receive their degree easily, think again. Distance learning students attend classes in a visible and interactive manner. Through webcam and microphone, the student is a contributing participant of the class while it is in session. For the most part, distance learning is live instructed, and not the same as taking an online class. It takes a committed, disciplined and determined student to succeed via distance learning. For more information about this exciting opportunity: http://dl.odu.edu/pvcc , Jennifer Hudsons email: jhudson@odu.edu , Phone 434961-5417, and their office in room K101. Have you ever thought of earning your bachelors degree from Old Dominion University but do not relish the thought of living on or near their campus in Norfolk? ODU has had a distance learning center on Piedmont Virginia Community Colleges campus since 1994. Jennifer Hudson, Community and Student Success Director for Old Dominion University, will help facilitate your transition from PVCC to ODU. Her office and ODUs student service access rooms are in the lower level of the Keats Science building. ODU has staff on-site at PVCC to aid students with enrollment, academic advising, student success coaching and proctoring. Hudson stressed that when a student comes to her office with a variety of questions and concerns, she can take care of everything from her desk. There is no need to visit multiple divisions. Hudson also stressed the importance of early coordination between PVCC and ODU to optimize academic planning. A students first semester at PVCC is not too soon. ODU distance learning offers very few freshman and sophomore level courses so it is important to successfully complete these first through PVCC. Taking non-transferable classes is a waste of time and money, but it is never too late to get on track. If you complete a transferable associates degree through PVCC, have at least a 2.5 GPA and fill out our letter of intent then we will automatically accept you as long as you have met these requirements, said Director Jennifer Hudson Hudson. Photography by Antonia Florence Page 13 Riddles Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer It is held first in hearts, Second in homes, At the start of peace, And lastly deep in your bones. The end of Death, the death of youth, Then comes the lie that kills the truth. In Asia this one stone is chief, The stone as green as the fresh tea leaf. From this stone many gods are made, In all the hues of the forest glade. Comic by Bridgette Lively Shakespeares Cyphers Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer Here are a couple hints: and W I Page 14 N S H C B R K H F Y T W I U N I K Z W J O F G U O F F O X H P N S E Y D B B S H F J F N D N T H X M T W D R X E G K T U O I Z S I S C J Q E B R S L W N C Y R I O L C J M L O E R W A J H A F T R Z O J L A T N E D P N R G F U I V H I E Q P Z X R O H B B A M N T B M P I P F D C S E U C N E R T Q I U Q C B P T F I I U K D G H T A I L T S T D D C I S N C T A N L E S N O E I C U L T U R E E L A L K G P Y C N C R R H K O O B K S F V T R G X Q H A O W X G O U P S P R I N G I O G I R L H B A Q R S K Z C S H X P D O Y U N Q E R A E P S E K A H S O V I I N C D R X W R W L J Z S Q R Q F Y R K Q V J S I F Find the following words from this months issue above: BETSY CULTURE HIPPIES ROSS BOOK DENTAL HUDSON SHAKESPEARE BRANCH DUMPLINGS IDENTIFICATION SPORTS CONCERT FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL SPRING CREDIT GARDEN KOREAN WRITING Page 15 Classifieds PIEDMONT VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff Do You Want to Make a Difference? Piedmont Virginia Community College invites applications for full and part-time faculty and staff positions. Day and evening shifts are available at all locations. Detailed job descriptions, position requirements and application procedures are available at: http://www.pvcc.edu/human_resources/ employment/ Piedmont Virginia Community College is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer and actively seeks applications from women and minority candidates. Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to PVCCs Contact us at theforum@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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Assistant Editors Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Photography Editor Samantha Prentiss Marketing Scott Cast Staff Writers/Copyeditors Katya Beisel Zachary Carter Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Devan Kaufman Jackie Layton Bridgette Lively Michael McGrew Jordan Orme Aerial Perkins-Goode Karen Riordan Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Ryan Winkler Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com March 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College PVCC students reach National Science Foundations semifinals Katya Beisel, Staff Writer Three PVCC students advance to the semifinals of the National Science Foundations Community College Innovation Challenge after their proposal to use protists to better assess the quality of water in the Rivanna watershed survived the preliminary round of the contest. Under the guidance of Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Anne Allison an in partnership with Charlottesvilles StreamWatch, students Maya Fraser-Butler, Candice Tomlinson and Stephen Hazen attempt to In This Issue PVCC Events -pg. 2 Gender Issues -pg. 5 Visiting Professor -pg. 6 Reviews -pg. 8-9 Club News -pg. 12 Piedmont Profile -pg. 13 Fun address the poor quality of Rivannas waterways. Fraser-Butler, Tomlinson and Hazen are students of PVCCs Associates of Science program. The local non-profit StreamWatch, the students community partner, monitors the quality of water in the Rivanna River watershed. According to StreamWatchs reports, the quality of our local water varies across the regions many streams and creeks, but is generally poor. However, the watershed supports a variety of diverse organisms and populations, from the most basic unicellular bacteria to those pesky deer we frequently encounter on the roads. Peer Mentors and SLAs Wanted. See page 4 Generally, we do not tend to think of miniscule organisms in our water as a good thing. However, Fraser-Butler, Tomlinson and Hazen believe that these tiny life forms might be the key to a better means of quantitatively measuring the quality of water in the Rivanna watershed and effectively combating pollution. They believe that their low-tech and simple solution would be cost effective and easy to maintain with minimal training involved. Most importantly, they believe in the viability and potential efficacy of their solution to Charlottesvilles poor water quality. -pgs. 14-15 Snow on PVCC campus. Photography by Samantha Prentiss DATES TO REMEMBER Super Pi Day Celebration March 14, 1 pm, M229 and North Hall Meeting Room UVA Credit Union Branch Grand Opening March 16, Noon, Bolick Student Center East Meets West Speaker Series: Workforce Development and entrepreneurship in India March 18, 12-1 pm, M229 Virginia Festival of the Book March 18-22 all over Charlottesville. Free Movie Friday, Wild March 20, 7:30 pm, Dickinson Building East Meets West Speaker Series: Maps and Missionaries March 23, 12-1 pm, M229 Womens History Month Lecture March 23, 12-1 pm, North Mall Meeting Room East Meets West Speaker Series: The Road to Everest is Not Paved March 27, 12-1 pm, M229 Fourth Fridays Improv March 27, 6-8 pm, Dickinson Building The Odyssey of the Soul March 27, 7:30 pm, Dickinson Building John McCutcheon March 28, 7:30pm, Dickinson Building PVCC Music Faculty Recital March 29, 3 pm, Dickinson Building International Food Fest March 30, 11:30 am to 1 pm, North Hall Meeting Room Attend 2 or more East Meets West Speaker events to get tickets! Fine Arts And Performances Quamia Dennis, Staff Writer PVCC offers many programs for the public, so they are able to stay active in the PVCC community. On February 28, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Geri Sauls will be offering a Tap Dance Master Class for $10 for non-PVCC students and free for all enrolled students. The tap dancing performances will teach others the unique style of dance with making it into your own. This event is hosted by the PVCC student dance club. If you have the passion of dancing, then this event is made for you to come out to join others in the auditorium of Dickinson Building.. Every fourth Friday, PVCC also hosts improv night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Black Box. When attending improv, you are able to practice improvisation skills, play games and interact with other students. It is free to attend improv is and no skills are required or necessary to partake in this event. If you are a student who is energetic, like to act, get along well with others, then improv is a great activity for you to be involved in. It is very exciting and has a lot to look forward to. ...PVCCs is looking for YOU to join. EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. HAVE FUN. Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information Page 2 Homeless to Harvard: One Book Movie Screening Karen Riordan, Staff Writer The moviegoers were mesmerized - still, quiet, and fully engaged. PVCC students, faculty, and staff gathered in the Jessup library to view the Lifetime Movie Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story. This event was part of the college-wide reading initiative called the One Book project. This years One Book features New York Times Bestseller Breaking Night by Liz Murray. The One Book project is designed to encourage the college community to read one common book and participate in discussions and related reading programs throughout the academic year. The film was a part of this venture. Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story portrays the real-life story of Liz Murrays turbulent childhood in the Bronx, raised by parents who were addicted to drugs. While Murray was loved, she was also neglected. At 15, she found herself homeless. Overcoming monumental challenges, Murray ultimately graduated from Harvard. At the films conclusion, the lights were turned up and everyone sat quietly for a moment. A time of reflection seemed appropriate. There were a few murmurs of wow. PVCCs librarian, Laura Skinner, engaged the participants in a discussion. While the group was small five women and two men they seemed interested in sharing their thoughts. A majority of the dialogue was spent comparing the book and the film. Viewer Linda Hitt, accounting professor at PVCC, read the book and saw the movie. The book addressed more of the day-to-day details of Liz Murrays life, said Hitt, I liked the movie too. It will help us to be more empathetic. Hitt suggested that it would be a good idea for the students to follow up on the movie in some way. Lynd Smethurst is an adult career coach at PVCCs Virginia Workforce Center. She thought the film was tastefully produced; Murrays story has some delicate themes. The movie was powerful, said Smethurst, I work with some people who come from dysfunctional backgrounds. This was a good reminder to me not to judge others. It helped me to better understand where theyre coming from. Carol Larson, director of Financial Aid, was in attendance and said that although she had not quite finished the book, she preferred the book to the film. Skinner seemed pleased with the turnout for the film. She has been impressed with the participation in this years One Book project. Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to read Liz Murrays Breaking Night. Skinner announced that the book the students selected for the 2015-16 One Book is The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Smoot. This is a true story about Henrietta Lacks, a poor black tobacco farmer, whose cancer cells (HeLa) were taken without her knowledge, to be used as tools in medicine. These cells are still used today. The One Book project has enhanced the PVCC community with many opportunities for enrichment, including the screening of Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story, there is something for everyone to learn and to share. Page 3 Peer Mentors and SLAs Wanted Katya Beisel, Staff Writer PVCCs Division of Student Services is looking for Peer Mentors and Student Learning Assistance (SLA) facilitators for next semester. Peer Mentors attend an assigned SDV 100 or SDV 101 class, where they model exemplary student behavior and help students transition into life at PVCC. SLA facilitators meet with students and help them with coursework from classes that the facilitators have already taken and passed with an A or B. These classes have high failure/ dropout rates and include BIO 141, ECO 201 and 202, MTH 163 and 173, and SOC 200. Accepted applicants will receive a semester stipend $250 and $700 respectively as well as a letter documenting their contributions to PVCC. Both programs provide PVCC students with opportunities for valuable work experience, particularly for students who aspire to become educators. All accepted applicants for either program must attend a training session prior to the start of the semester and attend all meetings of their assigned class. I love being an SLA facilitator for ECO 201. It is the most fun I have at school all week, said Christian Adams, who enjoys helping her fellow students learn and master the difficult concepts of Macroeconomics. Her advice to students thinking about applying for the SLA program is, Apply if you are interested in the subject and want to help other people learn . . . if you like a particular subject and can get excited about helping Todd Parks and Therese La Fleur in the Writing Center Photography by Katya Beisel someone else learn you should absolutely become and SLA facilitator and think of the money as a bonus. I was very pleasantly surprised at how easily if fit into my schedule, said Peer Mentor and SGA Executive Senator Catherine Tatman. Each Semester it became easier and easier. Interviews are required for finalists of both programs. Peer Mentors must also pass a background check and are encouraged to submit an unofficial transcript along with their application. Applications are due by Friday, March 20, and interested students should see Coordinator of Academic Support Services Todd Parks in his office in M617C for more information. Mr. Parks office is located within PVCCs Writing Center. Piedmont Parking Crackdown Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer With classes in session for just a month, PVCCs Public Safety Department is cracking down on parking violations. I should know, I have gotten two parking warnings. Our parking lots here at PVCC are like the Hunger Games. Parking at school is hit or a miss. Between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., the parking lot is desolate. But, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. you are pretty much stuck in the Dickinson lot. You might want to leave 10 minutes earlier in the morning to save yourself the agony of being late to class. Police Chief Shawn Harrison is implementing new safety guidelines. If you have not noticed, new emergency phone systems have been installed in the parking lots. This should make PVCC a safer environment for students and staff. Page 4 Gender Issues Around the World Parisa Haghtalab, Guest Writer As an Iranian woman who lived in the Middle East and the USA, I have so much to say about gender equality. I have seen two sides of this world, and they are not so different from each other. Contrary to what you see in the media, Iran is not like Saudi Arabia or Afghanistan. Iranian women do have voices, and for the majority of the population, it is acceptable for women to be educated. In comparison to women of other countries, Iranian women are not tamed by the expectations of the Middle East. For example, a few years before I left the country, the government started to arrest women for not covering themselves properly in public. Many women were arrested and sent to unknown places, or raped by jailors. Fear was everywhere, but many women still did not wear the veil, which is called Chador in Farsi. They just became more aware of the police on the streets. I was part of that rebellion. Sometimes my clothes were short and tight, something that I could go to jail for, but I was not going to lose the minimum freedom I could have. Neither were many other women. My parents have two daughters and one son. I never felt that they underestimated me as a female. They were never easier on me because I was a girl. They wanted their kids to be independent and strong. My parents are modern people, but living in a place where traditional expectations still impacted peoples daily lives was almost impossible for me. It made me struggle with my identity because of my lack of freedom. I couldnt imagine myself marrying and having kids without pursuing my dreams first. The traditional expectations were chains around my neck that choked me. It made me hate my gender, and I wanted to be a boy. I tried to act and dress like a boy. I even bought my shoes from the mens section of stores. The shoes were big, but they gave me the power to be a rebel. They made me feel like I could do anything I wanted. I wanted to be a boy because I believed women were weak. I had no idea that a woman could be strong. At that time, I did not realize that humans are not all the same and that its okay to have different interests and beliefs. I thought that girls should act a certain way. That was what I was taught by my society. I was a square trying to fit into a circles place. After I came to the USA, my struggle continued. At first, it seemed to me that I could express myself freely, but later I realized that it would not be so easy. In the USA, I realized that gender equality was not only a womens issue. Here, it also targets many men as well. A friend of mine who truly understands women and their feelings is labeled as gay in the USA. In Iran, kissing on the cheek represents respect and love between men, but in the USA its different. I have seen so many guys suffer and stop dreaming about their passions just because their goals were not masculine enough. Even in the USA, I have to follow certain expectations of femininity. But in reality, not all girls are interested in the same things. People have a tendency to label each other without realizing that people have more than one interest and varied experiences. I have seen two sides of this world, and I have realized that some gender expectations limit peoples freedom of choice and ignore their individuality in both countries. My question is, why it should happen? Why should we set certain expectations in the name of gender, as if everyone is the same? There is no such thing as complete masculinity or complete femininity and everyone falls somewhere on the spectrum between the two extremes. Unfortunately, gender issues are still an important topic everywhere. What I have realized is that they only adopt different faces. Gender inequality still exists. Some of these issues may be less noticeable than others. Identifying the roots of the problem requires careful scrutiny of cultures and society. Page 5 From South to South Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer Last month, Piedmont faculty members took part in welcoming Paola Galussia from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Galussia will join us for several weeks as an exchanged faculty member. Currently, Paola lives in La Boca, a picturesque barrio (neighborhood) easily walkable and with plenty of entertainment. This is Paolas first time abroad. The introduction began with a PowerPoint presentation where Paola, from Otto Krause Technical School, presented herself as a girl who has come from the southernmost part of Argentina to the southern neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, capital of the Republic of Argentina. Her Journey from Ushuaia to Otto Krause depicts her experiences, the differences in both cities and how they affected her life. At the age of 18, Paola moved to Buenos Aires to begin university studies, where a former professor first introduced her to Krause. Little did she know that in a few years time she would be working there as an English teacher. The technical school, offers a six year program, which consists of the first two years as high school level work and the third through sixth years as college academic work. The school integrates its students through various forms of education. One peculiar method was the fact that the students receive lessons not just from one teacher but two. While one teaches, the other sometimes grades or controls the students. To Photography by make things entertaining, Kellyn Torres they use storytelling to engage the students. Some other projects that are at work at Krause include field trips for those who are above the age of 16. Most recently the students visited the National Theater, Immigration Museum, Book and Spanish language museums. Among others tutoring, school magazine and interdisciplinary projects, sports and plays bring students together and form the school. Krause has a strong bond with Piedmont Virginia Community College; both send students and professors to learn and expand their horizons. Paola will begin exploring Piedmont next week, visiting a number of classes. She says she is beyond excited to begin this new experience and is terribly pleased to be in the United States, which is completely different from the movies and from everything else she expected it to be. A Workshop in Contemporary Dance Training Idette Charlie, Staff Writer Piedmont Virginia Community College held a free contemporary dance workshop January 24 for all dance levels. A workshop is a chance to explore and provide extra training. The contemporary dance workshop gave time to refine techniques. Faith Levine, the instructor, said, Feel free, find yourself, modify. This workshop brought dancers of all levels together for a unique time to learn. Levine gave instructions on various techniques which came alive when she said, Dance for the next hour and a half. Take a walk around the space. The dance floor became magical as the students followed their instructor. You could hear Levines instructions: walk, and count 1, 2, 3 then swirl, Keep the body straight, draw it, 8 up and 8 down, back knee into the chest. They became a team of student dancers in sequential movement. Contemporary dance is about using the body in relation to the floor. Levine instructs, Now our bones and muscles can go down to the floor, connect your bottom, butt and hip. The teaching comes alive. At that moment, the floor, gravity and the dancers bodies became one. Page 6 A Class Grows at Piedmont Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Landscape Plant Materials is a class which fits into the Horticulture curriculum. It fosters growth, not just of the mind but plants. Anyone can plop a plant in the ground. It takes knowledge to properly place a plant in suitably amended soil while giving consideration to the proper requirements of sun, shade, water, room for growth and proper pruning techniques. Trees, shrubs, flowers, ornamental grasses, ground covers, vines, ferns, mosses, and even cacti are all plants. This is a class for the lover of fresh air. Much of the education is garnered outside during field trips to nurseries, orchards, vineyards, gardens, arboretums and the campus fields and woods. Are you aware of the plant diversification right here on campus? The trees we pass as we traipse to Keats and Dickinson are nothing compared to what awaits us at the north end of campus. There are lovely private nooks and benches to sit on as we study the wide variety of plants provided by PVCC. Do you know what a Deodar Cedar looks like? Probably not what you have in mind. Have you ever seen a deciduous cedar? It drops its needles in the fall and looks dead during winter, regaining its green cloak in the spring. We drive by it each time we climb the hill on College Drive. The class meets in the Keats Science Building. Instructor, Nathan Miller received his Bachelors/ Concentration, Art and Environmental Studies from Bridgewater College and Masters, Landscape Architecture from Clemson University. Hot Yoga: Practice Does Not Make Perfect Karen Riordan, Staff Writer Practice does not always make perfect. And in this case, it is not supposed to. At least not for the people at Hot Yoga Charlottesville. The scene in the studio is shocking. The men and women, barely clad, are dripping with sweat, as well they should be. It is a steamy 105 degrees. The group moves in unison, breathes in unison, and relaxes in unison. Not a word is spoken for the entire hour and a half session, except for those of the leader, who gently directs the yogis to stretch in unimaginable ways. Twentysix postures, to be exact. Lizzie Clark, owner of downtowns Hot Yoga Charlottesville, explained the importance of practicing, as opposed to working out. Of course, this is a cardiovascular workout, but there's so much more, she says, We come into each situation with a belief set and a perspective on words and labels. So often, workout implies you are busting your tail - come hell or high water, no pain no gain. We call this a practice to lessen the ego's hold on our physical movements. Erin OHare has been practicing Hot Yoga for years. Photography by She says, Now, I Karen Riordan am content . . . Every day I seek out another piece of myself and am proud to share this practice with fellow yogis." Clark goes on to say, There is no practice that was better than another; even if it feels that way sometimes. You will receive what your body is teaching you that day. Sometimes it is a lesson in humility while other days it is a lesson in the limitlessness of your potential. When leaving the yoga practice, the participants quietly slip out of the room, their bodies, towels, and mats soaked in sweat. There are no high fives and cheers of we did it. Instead, there seems to be an air of humility, humbleness, and gratitude. Page 7 Review: She Wants Pretty - The Ha-Rang!# Kellyn Torres, Staff Writer The Ha-Rang!# have been described as anything from metal to organ garage, and have defied everyone with their new EP. She Wants Pretty showcases how this band is not looking to be categorized. Almost anybody would have a tough job trying! In an ineffectual world, this band shows its uniqueness, literally. The EP opener introduces us to an unconventional theme of Cocaine Deloreans. Marty Mcelys boyish wonder teleports the listener to a time of nostalgia, yet the overall timbre creates a futuristic vibe. Thrilling organs and meticulous drums accompanied by Shanes charismatic vocals make Delorean Girls a thrilling opener. Then comes the marvelous title track, She Wants Pretty. First off, were fooled by a melodic, solid riff, then suddenly the Ha-Rang!# catapults us into a reverie of electro-organs and what one could ostensibly identify as horror pop. Shane OGallagher, leader of The HaRang!#, uses crazily chaotic vocals joined with a hypnotizing riff to transport us in a journey through time and space, never to return. But we do return, eventually. The Ha-Rang!# abruptly leaves us with a candid Woo-Hoo! It is agreed the song does deserve to be celebrated. Hookers in the Wind is next and has the potential to be the best drinking song I have heard in a while. Harmonious melodies tie in with whimsical guitars to generate a fantastic hook, raising the stakes for the rest of the EP. Shane reminds us that Life is Short and we bask with him in this knowledge as we enjoy the remainder right up until the very last echoing cymbal. A cascade of riffs amount to a long intro into the next song, aptly named Pigeon Kick! Shane adopts vocal eeriness, droning melodies and urgent drums creating a sinister timbre. Suddenly, hit by a crescendo of meaty licks and strident pace, we are thrown into a surging tempo. This change surprises the listener, reminding us that the Ha-Rang!# are far from predictable. EP closer Murder Most Depraved reinforces the bands gambit of horror pop. Durge drums and tidal wave coals make this tune slightly more alarming. Yet again, frontman #wulfbaby (Shane) reminds us of the value of humor with this opening line, Im gonna let you in on a little secret / Not every day is a good day for a picnic. All of these tracks set a great tone for the future of the band. Watch out for the Ha-Rang! #, it would definitely be hard to ignore them. Review: Bella Morte Patricia Vaughan, Guest Writer Attention all music lovers - If you like a variety of music ranging from Goth to Metal, you should check out local Charlottesville band, Bella Morte. The gothic band was formed in 1996 by Andy Deane and Gopal Metro. There are currently four members, lead singer Andy Deane, lead guitarist Tony Lechmanski, bass guitarist Marshall Camden and drummer Jordan Marchini. Their music blends elements of metal, alternative, deathrock, and sythpop. In Italian, Bella Morte means beautiful death, and lead singer Andy Deane says that the name was chosen to suggest that beauty can be found in tragedy, This theme in each of their albums. The band, currently signed with Metropolis Records, just released it new album, Exorcisms. You can find them playing at the Jefferson Theater, on Charlottesvilles Downtown Mall, or at events like Mysticon. What I love most about these guys is that they are so down-to-earth. Fans can meet the band after the show, take pictures with the guys or even ask them to autograph band merchandise. If you like these guys, check out The Secret Storm and Ships in the Night, both of which are local bands. Page 8 Review: One Mic Stand Patrick Fritz, Guest Writer Piedmont Virginia Community College presented the One Mic Stand February 12 in the Maxwell Theater. The amazing talents of PVCCs students and faculty were on display to a full house. Acts ranged from soulful, original songs to an exciting and brash excerpt from a novel-in-progress, by up and coming author, Charles Dunn. Brilliant standup comedy and stunning dramatic and comedic monologues were also on the agenda. These highlighted the diverse talent of the students. The evening would not have been complete without the heartfelt poetry and spoken word performers that stirred the soul and delighted the mind. Sam Holland, a second semester student at PVCC, opened the evening with a mellifluous acoustic rendition of three original compositions. The mature and melodic crooning of love and loss was in stark contrast to his youthful appearance. His rich, soothing timbre accompanied by the beautifully arranged and refined acoustic strumming evoked raw emotion with every chord. With the dim lighting in the dark room and Sams smoky vocals, the only thing missing was two fingers of peaty Scotch whisky. Charlie Benz, an up and coming improvisational actor and comedian, charmed the crowd with his comedic debut. His unique brand of physical stand up mixed with a blend of humorous self-deprecation reminiscent of a young Jerry Seinfeld. The school will be seeing much more of Charlies performance skills in the PVCC Spring improvisational production of Once is Not Enough. Joe Taglavore performed two congenial apostrophic monologues that ran the spectrum from a dark and brooding conversation with his girlfriend to a sidesplitting dialogue between two roommates. Taglavore showed his amazing range, poise, and humor on stage that captivated the audience and showcased his comedic talent and flair for the dramatic. Matthew Newton left the crowd wordless as he presented his unique blend of comedic styling with a colorful monologue of a family holiday meal featuring his stone-faced uncle and quick to anger grandmother. Poets and spoken word artists led the gathered crowd on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. From the battered tenement buildings of Chicago into the idealism of the Freedom Summer and then back into the depths of American domestic and foreign turmoil of the 60s and early 70s. In another selection, the theme of family and of a father/daughter relationship were woven eloquently throughout with conflicting emotions, yet obvious love. Another exceptionally gifted author provided a look into the rich and diverse culture of the American south, amazingly delivered through two short stories that captivated and thrilled the audience. The rich descriptions of the virtues and qualities of good cornbread; to the artery clogging, but well worth the heart attack, fried chicken and southern sweet tea which was amusingly pronounced the origin of diabetes which brought to life the smells and sounds of the uniquely southern dining experience. In his second piece, he vividly described the internal turmoil that defines the beginning stages of a budding romantic relationship and the ability of bad coffee and Coltrane to create feelings of amity. The author then steered us into the conflicting emotions of making the decision to continue the casual relationship or develop it into something more. This One Mic Stand was a testament to the wide ranging and diverse talents of the Piedmont Virginia Community College students and faculty being flawlessly executed and conducted by Professor Julia Kudravetz. One Mic Stand will return to the Maxwell Theater on April 9. Be sure to mark your calendar. Page 9 Jasons Deli: People, Food and Choice Jackie Layton, Staff Writer Number three on Forbes 12 Best Franchises to Own for 2014, Jasons Deli is quickly becoming a number one choice for many health-conscious consumers. The restaurant ranked number one in annual sales in QSR magazines 2008 Top Ten list of restaurants with under 300 locations. Headquartered in Beaumont, Texas, Jasons Deli is a fast-casual, high volume, deli-style restaurant chain, providing fresh food and premium, more natural ingredients. It was the first major restaurant to ban artificial trans fats in the U.S., and the first to eliminate high fructose corn syrup. Those with energy, drive and the will to lead may want to consider the company for their core values: 1) Great Place to Work, 2) Highest Personal Standards, 3) Out of this World Service, 4) Highest Quality Food and 5) A Healthy, Growing Company. If management is a future goal, the company says that being a leader is only part of the equation. They look for employees who are nurturers, encouragers - people who love people. Founder Joe Tortorice, Jr. believes in making investments in employees and treating them like family. The companys Leadership Institute offers free classes in money matters, ethics, marriage, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence, which has received rave reviews because of its effect on home and work life. In addition, a non-profit foundation helps employees in crisis. Photography by Jackie Layton Photography by Jackie Layton The FoodFresh, Natural, Variety Jasons Deli was the number one consumers choice for Availability of Healthy Options among fast-casual restaurants for the 2014 Chain Restaurant Consumers Choice Awards conducted by Technomic research and consulting firm. Tony Bridges, one of four managers at the Charlottesville franchise quoted one of their tag lines, If you cant read an ingredient, it shouldnt be there. There is no high fructose corn syrup, MSG [an additive in most commercial ranch dressing] and no trans fats. Four new menu items are added per year and the soups are made in house. In addition to a salad bar with organic choices and deli sandwiches with whole grain options, main course items, soups, pastas, breakfast items, desserts, and a childrens menu are offered. The company began getting rid of trans fats from its menu eight years before the FDA ban; forty-seven ingredients were converted over five years. In April 2005, Trans Fat Freedom was declared at every Jasons Deli - 137 locations at that time. Three years later, high fructose corn syrup was eliminated - and more recently MSG and artificial colors. Gluten-free items have also been added. Perhaps PVCCs dining area might be a perfect spot for a scaled-down version of Jasons Deli, which is being tested in other areas and on college campuses. Page 10 Dining Options Around PVCC Campus Jordan Orme, Staff Writer When PVCC students, faculty, and staff need a revitalizing meal, there are various dining options for them in and around the campus. Many flock to the food and beverage dispensers within the college, while others stray from campus to seek more variety. Conveniently placed throughout PVCC, there are vending machines provided with snacks for people in a hurry. Inside the main building, the Mermaid Express and First Run Cafe are the colleges primary food and beverage suppliers. Each of them have dedicated staff members working to solve a never ending hunger crisis. The Mermaid Express is right outside the library. Current staff member, Melissa Herero said, I've worked here on and off for about four years. We sell granola and pastries that are from Albemarle Baking Company. They are really delicious. We also have great natural smoothies that our customers seem to really love. Try the white chocolate mocha, or the green tea smoothies. Naturally, First Run Cafe ends up with more business than Mermaid Express because of its size and variety. Staff member Patricia Johnson said, Everyone loves the fries. Patricia has been a staff member there for four years now, and she claims that First Run offers healthy options. Good things are said about First Run, but it also has its share of complaints. PVCC student Tan Armstrong said, I never eat there because the food seems processed and chemically enriched. If I was desperate for some food, I would go for their yogurt. And their Healthy Choices do not seem healthy in my opinion. Nobody there knew where the vegetables came from when I asked. But most of all, it is just too expensive for a college student. Other students like Abraham Washington defend the cafe: The First Run Cafe is pretty good. I mostly get the same thing, but whenever I try out something new there, it turns out to be good. It has awesome drink options, and it's also a good place to meet people. Plus, I don't feel like going somewhere else to eat. Why would I? First Run has good people. There are also other businesses and local restaurants just a few miles from the college. There are six different and easy-to-find eateries that are happy to serve those who come to them from PVCC. In the shopping center beyond Monticello High School, there is an Italian restaurant called Pizza Bella. It draws in customers with its zesty aroma and humble employees. When asked about their most popular dishes, staff member Aurela Fazliu said, I would recommend any of our pastas. We also offer daily specials for those who are interested. When in the mood for something sweet, just go about six stores to the right of Pizza Bella to enjoy some of Bloop's Frozen Yogurt. They stay pretty busy due to its successful management and jovial atmosphere. The inside of the store smells like a fruit basket, and its so colorful. They also offer waffle cones and frosty customized milkshakes. Upon arrival, be prepared to smile. Some of the PVCC family is employed at Bloop. Sara Smith said, Most customers usually go for the chocolate or vanilla, but I would recommend our cake batter. It's excellent. Also, all of our fruit toppings are fresh, never frozen. On the way there, take note of both the Subway and the Hong Kong restaurants for other options in the future. Across the road from Bloop, there is an Exxon gas station filled with delicious surprises. Inside, there is a energizing Mudhouse Coffee shop and a popular deli. The employees welcome their customers with small talk and laughter. All the sandwiches in their deli are named after towns in Virginia. When their manager Robert Wingfield is asked which sandwich is the best, he says, Try the Farmville or the Earlysville. They are both ordered the most. The amount of business the Exxon attracts is a clue for satisfaction. PVCC does have a few options that are convenient, but they do not have to be the only options. Explore the outskirts of the college and try something new. Page 11 Mu Alpha Theta Induction Ceremony Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer As snow fell outside, inside PVCC new Mu Alpha Theta members were inducted. The ceremony took place on Monday, February 16. Mu Alpha Theta welcomed ten new members. PVCC President Frank Friedman made an appearance and delivered a short but sweet speech congratulating the new members. Mu Alpha Theta is a mathematics honor society, specifically aimed at community college students. I had the pleasure of sitting in on the induction ceremony, and was able to listen to the speeches. Math is something thats always interested me, Im dyslexic so watching my sisters be better at English and things like that, I felt like I didnt Photography by Kaitlyn Duvalois belong, I felt like math could be my own talent, says Ilia Kowalzick, a newly inducted Mu Alpha Theta member. ts great that here at Piedmont we have a society that has an interest for everyone, whether it be mathematics or different cultures. Board Game Club Audrey Waldrop, Staff Writer of excitement. You never know what kind of games you will play, or when a lost and forgotten rule will reappear and change the entire game. The Board Game Club is about expressing your interests and meeting other people who like to play games and have interests that are common to Every Tuesday in the third floor of the Dickinson Building from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., you can discover the endless joys of playing board games. If you like to spend long hours playing new and exciting board games, the Board Game Club is for you. yours. Players of the board games are never Some games can be long, and others can be cutthroat or blood thirsty and always enjoy short. It all depends on the kind of people, what teaching others how to play new games. Over the kind of games are available to play, and the course of the game, you can have heated number of students discussions about feminism or playing. The head of the kinds of sandwiches you like this wonderful group of to eat. students is Bruce Games usually have some Glassco, a professor of portion of cooperation; the English here at players can teach you trust and Piedmont. Glassco is an respect. But they also teach you avid game player and how to accept inevitable defeat has even designed and and how to do so with an air of published games. grace. So please come visit and When you turn the walk away feeling that you are a Photography by Antonia Florence corner, there is a sense part of something bigger. Page 12 Piedmont Profiles: Bruce Robinson Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Bruce Robinson holds the positions of Associate Professor and program coordinator for Information Technology. Currently, he teaches Information Literacy, Advanced Computer Applications and Integration and Office Administration. When he hears PVCC, his immediate reaction is, Hey, I teach there! Im always excited to talk about PVCC to anybody willing to listen. With the exception of eleven months, he has worked at PVCC for the past thirty-six years. Anyone who knows Robinson would have a mental picture of his pencil thin mustache drawn tight across his face, following his wide smile and sparkling eyes. While in high school, he would hear his classmates talk of going to college and felt it was out of his reach. He did not have any role models who had gone to college, in fact, no one in his family had ever graduated from high school! He wanted to be like his friends who were excited about going to college. The first thing young Robinson did was enroll in college prep courses. His determination mounted to sit for his SAT. When he found out there was a fee to take the test, his hopes were dashed. Being one of seven children meant there was no money in his family for nonessentials. He remembers asking his grandmother for the fee, and she gladly obliged. His entire journey seems to have been a blur: ....all I ever concentrated on, was working on getting to college, staying in college, graduating from college and getting employed. In 1978, those dreams were realized! Robinson did not come here as an instructor. He earned his bachelors degree in Business Administration from Saint Pauls College and became one of PVCCs three accountants. He received his first opportunity to teach a class in 1986 when the division chairman of Business and Technologies asked him if he would be interested in teaching a Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet class. Bruce Robinson at his desk Photography by Antonia Florence My first day (of teaching) was exciting because I was doing something that I never thought I would be doing The idea that I was a teacher was almost too exciting to bear! Shortly, he was given the opportunity to expand his teaching career by qualifying as a full-time instructor for PVCC. He attended James Madison Universitys MBA program and then Virginia State University, with a Masters of Education in Business Education. He has been teaching fulltime at PVCC since 1992. The quality of academic expectation at PVCC is a step above all the others, according to Robinson. I've visited a number of community colleges in the VCCS to actually compare our courses with theirs and I come away knowing that what we do here is superior! This doesn't mean that they are not doing what is expected; we simply step up our game in our desire to create not just a smarter student, but to create a well-rounded college experience. Robinson likes the way some students have come to realize the seriousness of their college education by gauging their instructors requirements concerning timely assignment submissions, class response and attentiveness and the consequences of procrastination. As an instructor, Robinson wants, to build experiences which allows our students to maximize their potential once they've completed their stay at PVCC. Page 13 Comic by Bridgette Lively Shakespeares Cyphers Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer XXII XXV XVII XXI XII XXV XIV II XXV III XXIV XXV XIII Riddles Brennan Tanner, Staff Writer Whistle, howl, roar, and moan, Chilling all down to the bone, Window panes I shake and rattle, And with me this month you shall battle. IX XXVI VII XXI XII XXIII II Crown of green, coat of brown, With a soundless bark all around. IV XV VI III XV XIII XXIII XXV XXI XIII XXI XII Goddess of this Persephone be, Here are a few hints: Of budding flower, and leafing tree, XVII=w XXI=a Of melting snow making rivers flow, Of wild winds that howl and blow Page 14 Interesting Facts: Saint Patricks Day Bridgette Lively, Staff Writer St. Patricks Day was first celebrated in the United States of America in the 1700s when Irish immigrants held the first St. Patricks Day parade in New York City. www.huffingtonpost.com Wearing green originated from St. Patrick wearing the Irish flag while teaching Catholicism. According to legend, green is worn to be invisible to leprechauns who will pinch you if they see you. www.huffingtonpost.com Saint Patricks Day originated as a Catholic holiday. In present day, it is a fun holiday celebrated by many people even those without a religious connection to the holiday. St. Patrick was not Irish. He was born around 390 A.D. in Britain. www.nationalgeograhic.com Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 15 Classifieds March Contest! Find the Shamrocks inside this issue and email the locations to theforum@pvcc.edu for an entry to win this handmade scarf. Winner chosen 3/16. FRENCH/ITALIAN/SPANISH tutoring at $10/hr. Email at eef4w@virginia.edu *BA French at UVA, 4.0 at PVCC in Italian and Spanish Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to PVCCs Contact us at theforum@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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff Assistant Editors Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Photography Editor Samantha Prentiss Marketing Scott Cast Staff Writers/Copyeditors Katya Beisel Zachary Carter Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Devan Kaufman Jackie Layton Bridgette Lively Michael McGrew Jordan Orme Aerial Perkins-Goode Karen Riordan Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Ryan Winkler Comic Artists Bridgette Lively Andie Meddaugh Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com February 2015 Piedmont Virginia Community College PVCC: Theres an App for That Zachary Carter, Staff Writer Cell phones are popular tools to maintain communication and access updated information. Resources are at your fingertips with little effort. PVCC has taken advantage of these portable machines by releasing its own application for both iPhone and Android, allowing students access to maps, news, library and social media accounts. The PVCC app features a sleek, simplistic design making it straight forward. PVCCs page is covered in what In This Issue PVCC Events -pg. 2 SGA News -pg. 3 Restaurant Reviews -pg. 4 Gallery Opening -pg. 5 PVCC Safety -pg. 8 Piedmont Profile -pg. 9 Fun Classifieds resembles mini-apps within the app, linking important information which would otherwise be scattered across the Internet, or not on the Internet at all. These miniapps include maps, events, Twitter, and even a category that links to Blackboard which allows you see class updates and alerts. You will be notified within moments of a teacher posting a message or grade. An interactive map of each PVCC campus and building lets you zoom with a pinch and search for specific locations. It is easy to stay updated with school closings, events, sign up for text alerts using the Miss Club Day? See highlights on pages 6 and 7 emergency category or communicate directly with a librarian using the librarys online resources. PVCC student Kylie Hall says, My favorite part of the app is being able to use Blackboard. The VCCS app is downloadable on the App and Google Play Stores. The app asks the user to choose their school, which will then be saved. Its the students responsibility to keep up with PVCC and their academics and this app makes it just a little bit easier. -pgs. 10-11 -pg. 12 Some of the 38,000 books in the PVCC library -Photo by Katya Beisel DATES TO REMEMBER Auditions Jackie Layton, Staff Writer One Mic Stand February 12, 7 pm, Maxwell Theater, Dickinson Building Free Movie Friday, Bird Man February 20, 7:30pm, Dickinson Building The Odyssey of Soul February 21, 7:30pm, Dickinson Building PVCC Music Faculty Recital February 22, 3 pm, Dickinson Main Stage Fourth Fridays Improv February 27, 6-8 pm, Dickinson Building Tap Dance Master Class, Geri Sauls February 28, noon-2 pm, Dickinson Main Stage Ballet Master Class, Malcom Burn March 3, 7:30-9 pm, Dickinson Main Stage Richmond Ballet March 4, 7:30pm, Dickinson Building Free Movie Friday, Wild March 20, 7:30pm, Dickinson Building The audition for Once is Not Enough, PVCCs spring musical production, was like living and breathing a trailer before a major movie premiere. If you have never watched or participated in improv, you will not want to miss the fun, upcoming spontaneous performances of the actors, musicians and dancers in the cast. Using invited audience members meaningful life stories, the cast will recreate and playback their experiences through acting, sounds, singing, dancing and music. When asked what she wanted other students to know about acting and participating in the production, one PVCC student who was auditioning told of how she loved everything about it and being able to be herself. The performance will be directed by Brad Stoller who has been teaching and directing improvisational theatre and dance for over 25 years. He has an MFA in playwriting from UVA and is the winner of the several playwrights awards. He teaches at UVA and PVCC in the theatre and dance programs. Join the fun on April 2, 3, 4, 7:30 p.m. or April 4, 2:30 p.m. in PVCCs Black Box Theatre and see and feel how improvisation at its best can energize and invigorate you. ...PVCCs is looking for YOU to join. Make a move into the Board Game Club Photography by Bridgette Lively EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. HAVE FUN. Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information Page 2 Student Government Association News Greetings, students! My name is Heeyun (Jason) Joo, the President of the Student Government Organization at PVCC. I am excited to work with the Forum to reach out more students here at PVCC and letting you know that we are here for you. Let me briefly introduce the SGA. Our Mission Statement: 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 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. One of the best ways to do it is involvement, and events are good way to bring students involvement. Events from the Fall Semester: Campus Clean Up Besides these events, we also had Help Desk at the beginning of fall semester to help students if they had any questions around the campus and Night Students Appreciation where we offered coffee and donuts for those who take classes at night. How to become a part of the SGA: There are two ways to join the SGA. You can become a club rep from the club you already participate in. You can submit an application. Once you become a part of the SGA, you have three departments to choose from and work with: The Events Department: This depar tment organizes and runs SGAhosted social events across the campus and the community. Casino Night and the Meet & Greet, among many other events, are run by the Events Department. The Public Relations Department: This department develops and maintains SGA media, outreach, administration specific polling, and appreciation processes. Welcome Back Social The Student Voice Department: This department maintains the Student Voice Initiative, edits proposals, prepares project proposals for submission to the college administration. Casino Night If you have questions about our departments, about the SGA, or your concerns and suggestions you would like to share with the SGA, please email us at sga@pvcc.edu. Thank you! Page 3 Restoration: Eat This Food Ryan Winkler, Staff Writer Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the ninth hole of a championship golf course sits one of the newer restaurants in the Crozet area. Specializing in what can only be described as fine comfort food, the name Restoration could not be more fitting. Upon entering, there is an instant feeling of relaxation from the mellow lights, large windows, and French doors that give the entire dining room a sense of openness and friendliness. Everything on the menu seems appetizing. From a super done up meatloaf, to scallops, to shrimp and grits, and to the prize of the entire menu, the hanger steak, everything appears to be delicious. In this case, however, one of the best burgers in the greater Charlottesville area, the Royale, is the subject. Start with USDA Grade A 100% grass fed beef on a lightly buttered and toasted bun, add house-made bacon jam and tomato relish, then finally top it off with a slice of American or cheddar cheese, and you have some serious burger bliss. With a side of house cut French or sweet potato fries, its hard to go wrong with this American classic. If a burger is not exactly up your alley, perhaps starting with a kale Caesar salad is the way to go. With perfectly fresh kale, soft croutons, homemade Caesar dressing, and a parmesan crisp, this salad is the real deal. Moving forward, the Roasted Chicken might be preferable. With herb butter, Brussels sprouts and bacon, and mashed potatoes, it is another undoubtedly delicious choice. Perhaps you are just stopping in for a drink after a round of golf. With a solid variety of local beers on tap, as well as a full liquor bar, this place can fix up anything you might want. After all, if the beer selection is too minimal, there are several breweries right down the road in Nelson County. At the end of any day, Restoration is a good call. The experience harkens back to the very name of the place in every way, and it is a place that cannot be recommended enough. With stellar service and a friendly atmosphere, it is sure to satisfy the pickiest diners. Best Buffet for Your Buck Michael McGrew, Staff Writer For Chinese food in Charlottesville, where can the consumer go for choice, portion size, and affordability? While there are a few answers to this, the answer today is East Garden Buffet on Pantops. With friendly waitresses, a clean environment and a diverse assortment of foods, students big on hunger and light on wallets can get their fill for a reasonable price. The lunch buffet rests at just over $7 before tax and the dinner price is $9. Like many establishments, they put out some of their more costly options in the evening. East Garden hosts the standard assortment of Chinese food such as General Tso, Wonton soup, Lo Mein, Dumplings, and the list goes on. East Garden has items that will both please fans of the more obscure, such as frog legs, and fans of Japanese treats like sushi. The teriyaki eel is fabulous. The waitresses are friendly and courteous. They check in with you often to make sure things are going well. As buffet staff really only have to take empty plates away and check beverage levels, the standard for tipping drastically changes as you receive little service. The staff at East Garden, however, do not disappoint. Not once I have to deal with empty plates for longer than it took me to set my chopsticks down. The food is not the most amazing thing, but when looking at buffets, food may not be the most important standard. Buffets should be measured by the quality of food and affordability. In both of these standards East Garden passes. The food is good enough to want to come back and cheap enough to not hurt financially. Page 4 New Art Exhibits in Dickinson Katya Beisel, Staff Writer As an icy rain and wintery chill descended on the evening of Friday, January 23, Piedmont Virginia Community Colleges V. Earl Dickinson building emanated warmth and welcome as two separate exhibits opened in its galleries. Curated by PVCC faculty members Beryl Solla and Fenella Belle respectively, A Necessary Fiction and Summer of Love opened amidst a jovial atmosphere, replete with conversation, food, and music. A Necessary Fiction features the work of Kim Boggs and Michael Fitts and was curated by Beryl Solla, who is a professor of art at PVCC. While Boggs and Fitts each utilize different materials and styles, their shared focus on alternative materials unite the distinct and individual pieces of the exhibit. Boggs creates assemblage art, meaning that she uses found objects to form multi-dimensional pieces while Fitts works centered on photorealistic paint renderings of mundane objects on metal. However, A Necessary Fiction serves a greater purpose than to provide mere decoration. We link everything to our classes. Its very much a student-centered event, Solla said when asked how the exhibits impacted PVCC students. Boggs and Fitts work will give Sollas students vibrant and diverse references as they study assemblage and learn from Fitts, who is a Photography by Katya Beisel Photography by Katya Beisel local artist and will lecture in Sollas class. Summer of Love possessed a much more relaxed and liberated atmosphere to A Necessary Fictions more textured style. Adjunct professor Fenella Belle curated the exhibit, which features the work of artists Sheila Metcalf-Tobin, Leslie Wilkes, Amy Helfand, and Michael Miller, whose psychedelically vibrant paintings inspired the collections name. Belle shares a personal connection with the artists featured in the exhibit, which she began conceptualizing over a year and a half ago; they studied together at the Art Institute of Chicago. While the works featured in this exhibit are as unique and diverse as the artists behind them, the theme that unifies them is bold, effervescent color and individual aesthetic. Theres something that everyone can find to enjoy and I hope everyone goes home and gets inspired to make art and buy art, said Belle in an interview. Thanks to the dedication and effort of professors Solla and Belle, PVCC students, faculty, and community members now have access to not one but two professionally compiled and curated exhibits replete with fantastic pieces from talented artists. So, next time you find yourself a few minutes early to an art class or need to kill time before meeting with a professor, take a moment to appreciate the stunning array of art assembled in the North and South Galleries as well as the work that brought them here. The exhibits will be open to view until April 1. Page 5 Spring into Club Day Audrey Waldrop, Staff Writer Pep Club Club Day is an exciting event on the PVCC Campus every Fall and Spring Semester. It is the perfect chance to explore the many clubs that PVCC has to offer. Here, the possibilities are endless. Whether you are into Engineering, or Business, or looking for a club that will teach you to play new board games, PVCC has a club for you, and if they do not have one, you can always start a new one. You can express your interest in Journalism with The Forum or learn to ride a unicycle. There are so many clubs that even I could not help but join several. But, have no fear if you can not make a meeting there are other ways to stay involved mainly with club events. Yes, you can learn to ride a unicycle! The unicycle club teaches new members how to ride unicycles as part of the club. You can also join the Native American Student Union and learn about Native Americans. All of these clubs are dedicated to making the Piedmont and surrounding Charlottesville area a better place and somewhere that you can relax. We have clubs that explore the outdoors or that let you experience the joy of investing. Club Day is an endless wonder of the clubs we have, and you will probably find several that spark your interest. Do not fret about missing this semesters Club Day: which was the 21st of January. There will be another in the fall semester with a date to be announced. You can also explore the clubs through the various club events on campus and through The Forum. Brony Club Japanese Club and Anime Club Phi Theta Kappa Sonography Club Page 6 Business Club Investment Club Want to see more? Visit our website for pictures of other clubs and PVCC students. Student Veterans Association LGBTQA Club Horticulture Club Black Student Alliance Photography by Samantha Prentiss and Bridgette Lively International Club Page 7 PVCC Safety Presentation: Stalking Awareness Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Piedmont Virginia Community Colleges Police Chief, Shawn Harrison, presented Stalking: Increase Your Awareness January 28 in the main building auditorium. Stalking is a repeated course of conduct specifically directed, which would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. This behavior could include unwanted calls, texts, emails, posting information or spreading rumors about the victim on the internet, in a public place or by word of mouth, leaving unwanted items, presents or flowers, or following, spying, showing up at the same place or waiting at places for the victim. These methods are in addition to cyberstalking such as digital cameras, recording devices and GPS. The U.S. Department of Justice has compiled staggering statistics supporting the severity of this crime: 25 percent of females and 32 percent of males are being stalked by someone they know, 11 percent of victims are stalked for five years or more, and 54 percent of female victims reported their stalkers to authorities before being killed. Seventy-nine percent of female domestic abuse victims reported being stalked during their timeframe of abuse. Chief Harrison also addressed personal safety plans which includes keeping your cell phone charged in case you need to summon help, be aware of your surroundings and who may always seem to be present. Let someone know where you are going, with whom, and when you will return. If you feel like you are being consistently observed, are aware of the same situation occurring in different places or receive contacts through electronic modes, you may be a victim of stalking. If this is the case, it is important to keep a stalking incident log which will detail date, time, type of incident, any witnesses, and to whom you reported it. It is also imperative you keep any electronic contacts, notes, gifts, etc. for evidence. The bottom line is to document and report stalking incidents to the police. Real Issues with Public Safety Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer I have lived in the Charlottesville area for my 19 years of life. I am now a college student, and though I may sound ridiculous, but my age terrifies me. In the past six years, five females have gone missing from this area. UVA is going through a major federal investigation due to unreported rapes. In 2014, a high-profile fraternity was accused of a drunken group rape. I am not saying everyone is bad, but I am saying I shouldnt have to carry mace with me, and I definitely should not be terrified to walk to my car after my evening classes. I get out of class at 8:50 p.m., and I make sure my dial pad is out on my cell phone just in case. I believe that our safety standards are dropping; we look at rape as something that can just be brushed off. As a 19 year-old, I am frightened by what could happen to me on a Saturday evening when Im walking to my car. I go to concerts. I have friends that go to UVA. Why are we so okay with forgetting about abduction and sexual misconduct? Why are we so okay with blaming the female that has been abducted, raped, or killed? I spoke with a current Piedmont student, Morgan Shepherd. When I brought up being alone and walking to her car, she said that doesnt frighten me as much, as being alone leaving a party, but yeah, sometimes if its dark out and Im alone, I get nervous. I dont know what is out there. Why should females be scared to walk alone? Why should a girl be afraid to leave somewhere by themselves? Society is so focused on the blame game that we dont stop and say to ourselves, Maybe Im a part of the problem. We become so focused on what the next hot topic is that we forget that locally we may have a safety problem; we may have a problem with our lack of judgment. Page 8 Piedmont Profiles: Kay Bethea Antonia Florence, Staff Writer Professor of Theater and Music Kay Bethea has taught 15-20 different courses since her first year at Piedmont Virginia Community College in 1982. She currently teaches two acting classes, two fundamentals classes and an online music appreciation class. When asked how she would like to be addressed by her students, she replied, It really doesnt matter, but I do not use my title of doctor because I dont want to be on a plane and be asked to do a tracheotomy. Due to the wonderful rapport she builds with her students, inevitably, they end up calling her by her first name, which is fine with her. She grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and earned her bachelor and master degrees from Louisiana State University (LSU). With an immediate sparkle lighting her eyes, she is very proud to claim LSU as my alma mater. Bethea always wanted to do something in music or theater, or both. She is a trained pianist. She got into education by accident. While working on her masters degree at LSU, an instructor there received a call from Kansas State University looking for a piano instructor due to an unexpected influx of music students. Soon she was on her way to Kansas. Betheas route to PVCC has been interesting. She rattled off with infectious excitement, This is the sixth state, ninth city and fifth teaching institution: Kansas, South Carolina, a short time in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Arkansas, and Florida. She has enjoyed living in each place. Having always taught at four year colleges or graduate schools, this is her first time teaching in a community college. We talked about the expansion of PVCCs campus to four buildings. She feels it has lost some of its sense of community, despite activities aimed at bringing people together. There are still instructors who do not know each other as well as they would like. However, she is thankful and proud of the V. Earl Dickinson Building which is only a short Photography by Antonia Florence eight-minute walk from the main building. When asked what part of her program she feels needs to be expanded, she emphatically responded the instrumental portion of the music program. With such quality music programs in the area high schools, there is a real need to accommodate the local population. Kay Bethea has been an integral part of PVCC for many years. She is a self-proclaimed incessant coffee drinker who longs for a Bring your dog to work day. Her love for her pets, a Siberian husky and three indoor cats is apparent. In her spare time, she eagerly attends plays and concerts, whether it be at home or in New York. She invites all of the PVCC community to the Music Faculty Recital, 3:00 p.m., Main Stage Theater in Dickinson Building Sunday, February 22. Page 9 Fourth Fridays Improv Workshop Aerial Perkins-Goode, Staff Writer Fourth Fridays Improv workshop started off with a bang, eeek, and a bading. Located in The Black Box Theatre in the Dickinson Building at Piedmont Virginia Community College. Brad Stoller, the improv workshop instructor, prepares by taking off his shoes and stretching. The more you try to think of something to do the longer it takes for it to show. Thats what improv is really about, seeing if something can come from the I dont know, said Brad. Improv, short for improvisation, is a form of live theatre in which the plot, characters, and dialogue of a game, scene, or story are made up in the moment. I was able to sit down and talk with a workshop attendee named Roland. He is new to the Word Search How many words related to this issue can you find below? Charlottesville community and as an actor, Roland is involved in theatre. When asked what improv was to him, he said improv is fun, exciting and spontaneous. If you dont like where a scene is going you can take it in a new direction. You have to think on your feet. When asked what keeps him interested in improv, he replied, I am an actor and improv is just another tool in my toolbox. After observing the first half of the workshop, I was amazed. I realized that improv is not just verbal communication. It is nonverbal as well. The feelings and emotions conveyed by nonverbal gestures and sound effects help tell a story capturing the essence of spontaneity. I decided to put the pen and paper down and participate in the last half of the workshop and was completely surprised at how natural improv is. Improv is for everyone. Riddles Brennan Tanner, staff writer Worn on our sleeves, or hidden away, G T J E S W C C P N A E A Q Z N L A secret place where T S J R F T D I O U V O E M U P C our hopes and dreams lay. K Y U U Z N U S L E L Y H Y P O R L Y N T H O N D N B T C T U L Z E A promise, a token, a circle unbroken, X M H L J I Z T E E U G E A I B K A symbol of love that need not be spoken. G P Q U K E S A F N K P B Z R W B A A T C C E P A P K T C O Q Y S E L N I I I Y S R R P E R Z P E Q I Entrancing Arctic filigree, L D W T E L L A B Q S V M P G V C Made on a scale too small to see, E B G R T M O U G R O U N D H O G R D Q O Q J F O R U M G F K S P H But if touched by you or me, Fades into the mists of memory. Y E Y H T T J U F N R F X O L I L Page 10 Interesting Facts: Everyday Things Bridgette Lively, Staff Writer Our days are filled with a variety of things that we see and do. Some of these things in everyday life contain interesting facts about their origins and uses. ATM pins were originally intended to have six digit codes, but have four because thats how many the inventors wife said she could rememberSource: www.bbc.com A man named John Harris has tasted samples of 200 million gallons of ice cream. His taste buds are insured for one million dollars. Source: www.worldmag.com A Chinese millionaire began selling cans of fresh air for 80 cents in response to the worsening air pollution. He made over six million dollars in ten months. Source: www.huffingtonpost.com According to American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, in 2007, Out of the 9.3 million personalized plates on the roads of America, about one in ten are in Virginia Source: www.huffingtonpost.com Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 11 Classifieds WANTED: Photographic Evidence of this groundhog. Last Seen around PVCC Campus If spotted, take a picture and share it with The Forum on social media or via email by 2/12/15. For each picture you share (up to 8), you get an entry into the drawing on 2/13 for one of three XL Hershey chocolate bars. REWARD: XL Chocolate Bar. FRENCH/ITALIAN/SPANISH tutoring at $10/hr. Email at eef4w@virginia.edu *BA French at UVA, 4.0 at PVCC in Italian and Spanish Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to PVCCs Contact us at theforum@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 pvccforum2014@gmail.com with any questions. Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr. Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@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: theforum@pvcc.edu The Forum Staff Assistant Editors Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Photography Editor Samantha Prentiss Marketing Scott Cast Staff Writers/Copyeditors Katya Beisel Zachary Carter Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Kaitlyn Duvalois Antonia Florence Jessica Hackley Devan Kaufman Jackie Layton Bridgette Lively Michael McGrew Jordan Orme Aerial Perkins-Goode Karen Riordan Brennan Tanner Kellyn Torres Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Ryan Winkler Comic Artist Andie Meddaugh Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com December 2014 Piedmont Virginia Community College Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer As the holidays begin to rapidly approach, families all over Virginia are looking for that extra spark of holiday fun. There are numerous events planned like holiday tours at Monticello to Caring Santa. The holiday season is all about giving back, and CVille is the place to do it. The Toy Lift will be on December 5 from 7 a.m.-8 p.m., at Fashion Square Mall. Also this year at Fashion Square Mall, they are holding an event called Caring Santa; if your child or a child you know has special needs and wants their picture taken with Santa, this is a great opportunity. Reservations are required; for more information call 973-9332. If you are interested in Christmas lights, the Annual Lighting of The Lawn will be held on Thursday, December 4 at 7 p.m.; the event is free. On December 12, here at PVCC, Let There Be Light, an outdoor art exhibit, is being held from 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; this event is also free. If you have four-legged friends, you can take them to Fashion Square on December 14 and get their picture taken with Santa. This will be held from 6pm-8pm. UVA Community Credit Union coming to PVCC! See Credit Union, page 11 A Christmas Carol will be shown at The Paramount Theater, on Tuesday, December 9. This live show starts at 7:30 p.m.; tickets start at $19.50. Monticello is offering nightly holiday tours; this is a unique opportunity to see how Christmas was celebrated in Jeffersons time. For more details call 984-9822. These festivities are a great way to get excited for the upcoming holidays. In This Issue North Entrance Changing Seasons. Photography by Jessica Hackley. PVCC Events -pg.2 Speak to an Advisor -pg.3 Information Course -pg.4 Campus Safety -pg.5 Holiday Articles -pg.6 Crossword Puzzle -pg.8 Comic -pg.9 Veterans Day -pg.10 UVA Credit Union -pg.11 DATES TO REMEMBER Helping the Haven December 3, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., North Hall Meeting Room kNOw Homelessness December 3, 2 p.m., North Hall Meeting Room PVCC Dance and Theatre present Karate Tango December 5 & 6, 7:30 p.m., December 7, 2:30 p.m., Dickinson PVCC Student Pottery Sale December 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Dickinson Radiography Club Bake Sale December 11, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Bolick Student Center Let There Be Light December 12, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., Around Dickinson Final Exams December 15 - December 19 Winter Break December 20 - January 12 Free Movie Friday, Gone Girl January 16, 7:30 p.m., Dickinson Iraq: The Inside Scoop By Idette Charlie, Staff Writer Colonel Jaafar Mohammed Ridah Ainusawi provided fresh insight on U.S. and Iraqi relations. He said, I want the United States to help Iraqi People. The talk gave details about the Iraqi soldiers house arrest. He was under house arrest because he was a Christian, The details about the house arrest came from his son. His son explained that the soldier used a butt of a gun to hit his face and then left him down on the floor. He discussed the dangers ISIS poses. Colonel Jaafer said the country is torn. The talk was a part of the not to miss guest speaker series. This series offers students new perspectives and awareness of broader issues. The lectures are held in the main building auditorium (M229). The guest speaker series is a must to go to. Two RAD Club Members at the November Bake Sale. Photograph by Jessica Hackley. Page 2 Speak to Your Transfer Advisor Early and Often Abby Arnold, PhD, Guest Columnist If you are considering transferring to a four year college after graduating from PVCC, one of the most important things you can do while at PVCC is to meet with your transfer advisor early and often. In fact, you should speak to advisors from a few different colleges to get a sense of what programs and options are out there for you. There are many different programs and opportunities available for a transfer student and most of them either have offices on the PVCC campus or come here regularly; chances are, by meeting with a few different college advisors you will find the program that serves your goals and needs. If you know what you want to do, such as if you have your heart set on being an engineer, or an elementary school teacher, or a business major or have any other higher education goal, the transfer advisor can help you to maximize your time and minimize your expense. In this way, when you earn your PVCC degree, you will be already on your way to complete the requirements of your four year program. Whether you know what college or university you want to attend, or are not sure if a four year degree is right for you, there are numerous advantages for you to meet early, and regularly, with a transfer advisor. A transfer advisor can help you pick electives that will count not only for your PVCC degree, but also for specific requirements in the transfer college therefore saving you time and money. Transfer advisors have a great deal of experience with the commitments required of adult students and can help you navigate the multiple demands of life, school, employment, and family. We can connect you to the appropriate financial aid office to help with your long-term budgeting. Perhaps most importantly, a transfer advisor can be a consistent, long-term support and resource for you, someone who knows your goals and is committed to helping you achieve them. Abby Arnold, PhD, is a transfer advisor and adjunct professor at Mary Baldwin College and the UVA BIS program. Some of the transfer advisors available to you: PVCC: Kristin Greer PVCC Admissions and Advising Center. 434-961-6564 kgreer@pvcc.edu Mary Baldwin College Adult Degree Program: Abby Arnold PVCC room M300A (above the student commons). 434-961-5421 asarnold@mbc.edu ODU: Jennifer Hudson PVCC Kluge Moses Science Center room K101. 434-961-5417 pvcc@odu.edu UVA Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies: Joy Sabol UVA Zehmer Hall 1-800-346-3882 SCPSadmissions@viginia.edu Veterans Day Observance with Brian Pace, Jackie Fisher, Ralph Brown Sr., and Ralph Brown Jr. Photography by Jessica Hackley Page 3 Chart Your Information Course Michael McGrew, Staff Writer One course available at PVCC is easily accessible and should be a mandatory class as early as middle school. Information Literacy is a course available to PVCC students that focuses on research, validating sources of information, and the common platform for both students and employees: Microsoft Office. How exactly is a course for college students appropriate for preteen children? The simple answer is the content does not require advanced knowledge of other subjects. There is no need for higher math or science. The English skills required have been acquired by most young students by sixth through eighth grade. The most important thing, however, is what they could get from it. We live in a world with an unprecedented level of information available. It is estimated by Karl Fisch, Director of Technology at Arapahoe High School in Colorado, that a weeks worth of New York Times contained more information than a person in the 18th century was likely to come across in a lifetime. Consider this newspaper is a single source of print journalism. Compared to the vast sea of information that is the internet and you can see humanity has reached a deluge with unprecedented access to the quantities of information. The reality then becomes obvious. With so many sources of information how can anyone be certain they are getting quality information? This is incredibly important in a time where people lacking any scientific credentials are convincing citizens to avoid medically sound procedures, politicians make claims their histories and beliefs dont back up, or when anyone is trying to claim something is a sound choice. This is where Information Literacy comes in. Beyond simply teaching its attendees how to use software platforms or the fundamental concepts of how technologies interact, students in this course will learn the steps to inspect the veracity of information. How to separate the wheat of empirical evidence from the chaff of pseudoscientific mongrels. Admittedly the bulk of the class involves learning software platforms, this is still a worthwhile thing to learn. Even if a student only comes to learn how to verify information sources, learning to use programs that are invaluable to school and business can hardly seem like a foolish way to spend time. The class is taught by George Williams, who has 37 years of experience in technology related fields. His experience includes managing computer systems for UVA and IT work for the commonwealth itself. When asked what he thought was the most important thing for students to take from the class, he remarked, For students to be comfortable finding reliable information and to be aware of the current and dangerous security threats online. The class will be offered on campus in spring semester 2015 in M834 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 3:15 PM. Students using PVCC Computer Lab. Photograph by Samantha Prentiss. Page 4 Daylight Saving Time Raising Concerns Jackie Morris, Staff Writer Fall has set in and Daylight Savings time is in full effect. PVCC students who take evening and night classes have growing concerns for one particular area: the parking lot. There needs to be more lighting in the parking lot, says PVCC student Katie Safely and perhaps more agree. Many changes have been happening for the Department of Public Safety and Campus police such as gaining a new police chief and new protocols. Chief Shawn Harrison wants to help everyone, even though the department is short staffed. If one wants to feel safer and would feel safer to be escorted to their cars at night, then the department will be there to help. Harrison suggests calling the office and asking for assistance; someone will walk with you to your vehicle or they will follow you with the campus police car to make sure nothing happens. With these new protocols, Chief Harrison says, Part of me is changing the mindset [of PVCC] from security to department of Public Safety. As the department can do their part to help the students, Chief Harrison has a way for students to help the department: "I'm going to use a clich that's out there in the world; if you see something, say something. Harrison expresses that Piedmont is a community, and as a police chief, she is available to help however students can help as well by reporting incidents or suspicious activity. As far as spreading more awareness on campus, Chief Harrison has started presentations that help students learn more about different situations; for example, a few weeks ago there was a presentation about domestic violence and there Twilight on campus. Photograph by Samantha Prentiss will be more presentations to come. Harrison says, Those presentations are a part of my protocol, although you all dont show up . . . that wont stop me from having them. If there are any questions, comments, or concerns for Chief Harrison, the best way to contact her would be through her email (sharrison@pvcc.edu), and though she may be busy around campus Harrison assures she always responds. North Entrance of PVCC. Photograph by Jessica Hackley. Page 5 Everyone Should Have Happy Holidays Zachary Carter, Staff Writer The holiday season brings fun times with family and special gifts for friends. However, it wont be as jolly of a time for some Charlottesville lowincome locals this year due to rising costs for healthy food. There are ways that the community can help these low income families. The Loaves and Fishes food shelter is a local corporation and one of the largest direct distributors of food assistance to low-income families in Charlottesville. A program called Feeding Americas Map: the Meal Gap project estimates 17,500 people in Charlottesville and Albemarle are food insecure, or suffer from lack of access to affordable, nutritious food. The shelter accepts food donations, and the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank accepts money donations. Special items such as diapers, baby food, and powder formula are also needed. Volunteer times are Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays; Thursday evenings 6:00-8:30, Wednesday afternoons 1:30-4:00pm, and Saturdays mornings 9:30am-1pm. Margaret McNett Burruss, Executive Director of Loaves and Fishes says, November is our busiest month every year, we expect this month we'll serve 2,100 or more families. Loaves and Fishes encourage the community this season to brighten the lives of those who are struggling to have a happy holiday. Become a PVCC Angel This holiday season, Phi Theta Kappa has partnered with the Salvation Army of Charlottesville to host an Angel Tree on the PVCC campus. Located near the South Entrance, the tree is fully decorated with paper angel ornaments, each one devoted to a local child. These cards provide details about the children and their Christmas wishes. In order to participate: choose an angel, pick out a gift for that special child, and leave it under the tree by Friday, December 12th. Spread the joy of giving this year! Photography by Samantha Prentiss Page 6 What is Your Wish for the New Year? Annette Cashatt and Samantha Prentiss, Staff Writers Photographs by Samantha Prentiss Rosie Guerra, PVCC student: She wishes to be successful and happy. Kenyatta Follet, PVCC student: I just want to be happy, to travel, and meet new people. Im trying to successfully transfer to UVA. I have one semester (Spring 2015) left to transfer to UVA, and after a year at UVA, Ill be able to apply to medical school where my journey to become a physician will start. - Alaha Abdul Jamil, PVCC student. That I pass Anatomy and Physiology, and get accepted to the nursing program. - Tabatha Rush, PVCC student. Addie Smith, PVCC staff: I wish all the troops were home, health and wealth and a very merry Christmas and happy holidays. "To continue to encourage others toward a healthy lifestyle filled with exercise and a healthy diet, while continuing to work on my own health and fitness goals." - Amy Floyd, Testing Center Proctor Jennifer Gaydon, PVCC staff: She wishes for world peace and Scott. "I'm hoping to inspire the children I teach." Malcolm Hughes, PVCC student. Antonio Washington, PVCC student: I want me and my kids to be happy and continue my road to success. Page 7 Riddles Crossword Puzzle Read and Learn Brennan Tanner, staff writer Answers? Piedmontforum.com Cities we level, mountains we crumble, we cause the earth to crack and crumble; across the earth we rush and roar and underneath we rumble. Of fates and furies, sisters Graeae, Of sailing ships that led the way, Of pyramids cross desert sands, The total worth, of Sea, Sky, and Land. *Hint* Read this article @ Piedmontforum.com Page 8 Interesting Facts About Famous People Bridgette Lively, staff writer Bob Barker is a karate expert and trained with Chuck Norris for eight years. Source: www.sun-sentinel.com Brian May, lead guitarist of Queen has a PhD in Astrophysics. He co-authored two scientific research papers while in Queen. Source: http://astro.ic.ac.uk/bmay/home Tina Fey graduated in the class 1992 from the University of Virginia with a bachelors degree in Fine Arts. Source: www.virginia.edu The journey of every human life is nothing less than extraordinary. However, there is something intriguing about the lives of the rich and famous both past and present. Here are some facts you may not have known: In China, the tallest female basketball player and the countrys tallest man were encouraged to get married. Their son is Yao Ming. Source: www.dicovermagazine.com Happy Holidays! Try not to get your head stuck in a turkey. Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 9 Thank Your Everyday Heroes Jessica Hackley, Staff Writer To me, Veterans Day is a time for me to consciously think about the effect that the military has on this country; how so many give their lives to serve and protect America; how not only my family, but so many others know at least one person who has served, is serving, or will serve; and how reintegrating into civilian society can be more tough than service itself. On Tuesday, November 11, 2014 between the hours of noon and 1 p.m., Veterans, students, and employees alike gathered to observe Veterans Day. The event began with a presentation of colors by the UVA Color Guard. The Pledge of Allegiance was then heard, followed by the National Anthem sung by Andrew Renshaw. Pastor Harold L. Bare, Sr., Ph.D., from the Covenant Church then held an Invocation. Albemarle Pipes and Drums then played a beautiful military tribute with bagpipes before a message from the President, Frank Friedman. Other voices of veterans were then heard about honoring the service provided by veterans, as well as issues that veterans are currently facing such as homelessness. A brunch buffet table was provided with crisp fruits and vegetables. Chef Ralph Brown Sr., Army veteran and PVCC alumni, provided tasty, fresh made omelettes. After the celebration of Veterans, a few key proprietors stayed to clean up after the event, and I asked them what veterans Jackie Fisher, Brian Pace, and day meant Sherrod Fisher. Photography by to them. Albemarle Pipes and Drums. Photograph by Jessica Hackley. Sherrod Fisher, a retired chief petty officer of the United States Navy, shared his thoughts about the day: Today marks the day of remembrance and celebration for those who served and those who continue to serve this great nation...Veterans Day allowed me to connect with past and present friends, and establish new relationships with many who share a common bond of service to our country. SVO President, Brian Pacet, said, Today was about honoring our service members and those veterans who attend PVCC, who have selfishlessly given their time and lives in defense of our nation. Their honor, courage, and commitment is a testament to Americas freedom and insurance of the future for our Constitution. With their inspiring truths, I end on the Student Veterans of America advisor, Jackie Fisher, and her empowering words, Our gathering is just one small spark in the flame of pride that burns across the nation...we can honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in freedom. Jessica Hackley. Page 10 Financial Fortitude Jessica Hackley, Staff Writer If someone were to ask what demographic is most aware of financial issues, most would answer college students, especially community college students. There are always more bills to pay, more things to take care of, and those dreaded student loans. Banks that are only out for themselves, charging monthly fees or needing a minimum account balance, can make students feel weary and jaded when needing to manage their money and keep up with their lives. This is where the University of Virginia Community Credit Union (UVA CCU) comes in. UVA CCU offers many reasonable loans, credit balance transfers, and low minimum balances or even no minimum for the interest checking account. Even the savings account is called a personal share savings. What is important to know about this name is that it represents the share of the credit union that the account holder has. This further means that a credit union operates differently from a bank; UVA CCU is a non-profit, member-owned, financial cooperative. Some other differences are those who are members at credit unions are able to vote in electing board members; a CUs focus is really on member savings, and dividends are paid back to the member. In the entire history of the United States, taxpayer dollars have never been used to bail out a CU, and no credit union member has ever lost money in a CU protected by the fund (104th Congressional Record). Interestingly, CUs are not FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) insured, but they are insured by the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration). Fortunately, the NCUA also has the backing of the full faith and credit of the US Government and accounts are insured up to $250,000 just as the FDIC accounts are. Enough financial jargon for now; what is so great about the UVA CCU in plain English?. They are coming to PVCC. A community driven, student run branch will be opening up at our very own community college. The starting location will be across from the vending machines, the second door on the left, in the 600 wing of the main building which is to the right just past the Bolick Student Center. One of the greatest benefits is that they take financial literacy seriously and offer free counseling to members; therefore, if you feel as if you would like to better manage your money or learn your options for investing, then make a trip to the UVA CCU as soon as they open to gain your financial fortitude with free knowledge. Estimated arrival for the UVA CCU at PVCC is in January. It has also been said that there will be promotional fun events that you will not want to miss. If you have any questions feel free to check out the www.uvacreditunion.org website. Writer? Photographer? Artist? Editor?... ...PVCCs is looking for YOU to Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information or visit our website www.piedmont forum.com EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. HAVE FUN. Donate food, supplies, or toys at these locations around campus. Photographs by Jessica Hackley Page 11 Classifieds Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@pvcc.edu www.piedmontforum.com PIEDMONT VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE The Forum offers classified space to the PVCC community free of charge. Please send announcements along with full name, email, and phone number to: theforum@pvcc.edu Do You Want to Make a Difference? The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Assistant Editors Piedmont Virginia Community College invites applications for full and part-time faculty and staff positions. Day and evening shifts are available at all locations. Detailed job descriptions, position requirements and application procedures are available at: http://www.pvcc.edu/human_resources/ employment/ Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to PVCCs Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information or visit our website www.piedmontforum.com 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 theforum@pvcc.edu with any questions. Annette Cashatt Jessica Hackley Photography Editor Jessica Hackley Samantha Prentiss Social Media Coordinators Winston Garnett Jessica Hackley Staff Writers/Copyeditors Zachary Carter Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Austin Ellis Winston Garnett Jessica Hackley Brigette Lively Fitz Irving Jr Devan Kaufman Michael McGrew Jackie Morris Brennan Tanner Andre Thompson Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Comic Artist Andie Meddaugh Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...

... Read more at: Piedmontforum.com November 2014 Piedmont Virginia Community College the best Casino Night weve had. Alexis Williams, Staff Writer Halloween is a tradition rich with costumes, candy, fear, and the imagery of the dead everywhere. But where exactly does Halloween come from? Samhain, (October 31st November 1st) in mediaeval Ireland, was a festival celebrated to mark the Celtic new year, which started on November 1st. Not only did it symbolize the end of the summer harvest, but also the beginning of the long, cold, dark months of winter. Families would lead their livestock to shelter, count their food, and make sure they had enough supplies to last through winter. Samhain was considered to be liminal, where the threshold between the living and spirit world was the thinnest, and the dead were able to mingle closely with the living. The Celts believed Samhain to be the time where all the souls of the people who died in the past year embarked on their journey to the spirit world. Since the Celts associated winter with great death, -Steve McNerney See Casino Night on page 5 Samhain was celebrated with bonfires, animal and food sacrifices, and large gatherings in order to pay respects to dead ancestors and help guide lost spirits on their travels, while simultaneously keeping them away from the living. Of course, all fun must come See Halloween on page 9 In This Issue Casino Night Decorations. Photography by Jessica Hackley. PVCC Events -pg.2 Ava Pippin Interview -pg.3 Carters Mountain -pg.4 Casino Night -pg.5 Cville City Market -pg.6 Crossword Puzzle -pg.8 Club news/events -pg.11 Classifieds -pg.12 DATES TO REMEMBER Spring 2015 Registration Opens New Police Chief Idette Charlie, Staff Writer The Public Safety and Campus Police departments are being rebranded. Piedmont Virginia Community College Roundtable on Gender Equality has hired a new police chief, Shawn November 3rd 12 pm. Harrison. Harrison is bright and friendly. She One Book Essay Contest Deadline likes Columbian roast coffee, November 7th, 5pm occasionally with hazelnut cream. These small details are what help make up the One Mic Stand new police chiefs warming personality. November 13,th 7 pm With a cup of coffee, we discussed the outline of the campus police kNOw Homelessness departments rebranding. November 19th, 11:30 am to 5:30 pm Harrison is extremely qualified. She holds both a bachelors and a masters Gallery Exhibit Opening Reception degree and is professionally certified in November 21st, 5-7pm Maryland, while on her way to becoming Virginia certified. She said Free Movie Friday: Boyhood that the new campus police perspective November 21st, 7:30 pm is about giving a service that is open to the community and a safe learning PVCC Chorus Fall Concert environment. November 23rd, 3 pm Harrison also says that changes such as school identification badges, changing Thanksgiving Break the security personnel uniforms, and November 25-29 th more visibility of officers, will make the community safer; having a pro-active approach to campus security will also be a priority. The uniforms purpose is to immediately identify public safety officers. Joseph remarked that he sees his work as a public service to PVCC. Any public service ought to be community organized oriented to safe learning environment, said Joseph. Creating a safe learning environment is a key feature of the rebranding. Harrison recommends all students get their school identification made and wear it around campus. She hopes these new procedures and activities will help bring respect for all members of the campus community Casino Night Costume Contest Winners: Manija Azizi, Timothy Votaw, and Eddie Gerald. Jesus came in with compassionate leadership, and first place and the Cry Babies were the runner ups. Photography by Jessica Hackley promote open communication Current Students, October 27th-November 23rd Page 2 Interview with Ava Pippin Winston Garnett, Staff Writer I had the pleasure of interviewing Ava Pippin. She was recently added as the president of the College Board. Pippin has been a family friend of mine for years. Pippen is a big part of PVCC. We are lucky to have her on the board, and getting to know her has been a great pleasure. She answered the following questions during our interview. What direction do you see PVCC going? My hope would be that Piedmont Virginia Community College turns its attention to the career and technical educational programs, either expanding what there are in place or developing new certificate programs. In doing this, I believe that Piedmont would better serve the communities my fellow board members and I represent. What does it feel like being a member of the College Board at PVCC? I had the pleasure of knowing and working with a number of my predecessors and also becoming well acquainted with Piedmont Virginia Community College administration and staff and a legislative aid to the Delegate Vivian Earl Dickinson for whom the Piedmont Virginia Community College theater is named. While teaching in the Louisa County Public Schools, I was the site coordinator for Piedmont Virginia Community College classes as well being a parttime instructor. Finally, I have been a student at Piedmont Virginia Community College for the renewing of my teaching certificate and also just for fun when I retired from teaching. Piedmont Virginia Community College has been a part of my professional and personal life, and I was honored to have been appointed to the Board of Supervisors. How do budget cuts affect PVCC? The budget cuts are continuous but not unusual.What is important for Piedmont Virginia Community College is to give each and every student a quality education at an affordable price. All community colleges should remain inexpensive and give the average student a great education at a low cost. Piedmont, like our fellow community colleges, will need to be creative but reasonable and sensible looking at the locations in deciding where and what cuts can be made without losing credibility or sight of our own Campus hangout spot. Photograph by Samantha Prentiss Page 3 Mountains of Apples Devin Kaufman, Staff Writer The original plan was to meet up with my friend at Carters mountain on Saturday, since it was supposed to be sunny and in the 60s. It turns out that a good portion of Charlottesville had the same idea. In the end, the trip happened on an overcast, windy, October day. Basically a guarantee that there would not be any lines. After a 15 minute drive up the curvy narrow two lane road, vineyards came into view. Following the view of the vineyards, I was hit with my surroundings. The differing colors of leaves, the rolling hills, the hospital and the University of Virginia in the distance add up to a pretty Rows of Apple Cider Doughnuts. incredible scene. Even the dreariness of the day could not take away its beauty. The hype surrounding the apple cider doughnuts is accurate. Coated in raw sugar with a hint of apple, it was something even a nondoughnut lover like me could enjoy. My only wish was that they would have been warmed. The apple cider was the kind that does not burn your throat when swallowed. Its super sweet without any added sugar. With two of our goals accomplished, it was time to pick apples. Luckily for me, my friend had been up to Carters mountain plenty of times, so she knew how it all worked. The barn is set up like an open building with bins of Mocking Apples. Photograph by Jessica apples in the front in case apple picking is not your thing. After asking for a bag, we viewed the board by the cash register that lists apple types. We then got a map of where the different varieties of apples are located. Both of us decided to go with Jonagolds. The rows between the apple trees are paved with red dirt and hay so dont wear those adorable fall boots you just bought. Upon entering the Jonagold section, all of the apples are just out of reach. Perfect specimens of apples hung in the boughs mocking us. I do not recommend trying to climb the trees or shake the branches. Instead, keep walking down and there are plenty of apples within arms reach for easy picking. Apples are my favorite fruit, and honey crisp is by far my favorite kind. Jonagolds have never been on my favorite list. My logic has been forever changed because that was one of the best apples I have ever tasted. It was crispy, sweet, cold, and fresh off the tree. At only $1.59 per pound, it is affordable comparative to the two, three, or four Scenery. Photograph by Jessica Hackley Page 4 Casino Night Kills It Annette Cashatt, Staff Writer extra money to play with. No alcohol or drugs were allowed, and security was present. According to the head of the SGA Event Committee, Jonathan Dean,: It'sone of the largest events at the school. It gives students a chance to socialize with each other outside of class, which is important because PVCC is a non -residential school and students often don't have any opportunity to interact with each other outside of the classroom. The event certainly had socializing and a strong vibe of energy. It also drew quite a few partygoers; the tally of how many attended is Do you feel lucky? Then you should have been at Casino Night this past Friday. According to the Student Government Associations (SGA) advisor, Steve McNerney, it is the best Casino Night weve had. This marks the sixth time the SGA has hosted the popular affair, drawing in students, staff and community members. The event was on October 24 and operated from 7 to 11 p.m. in the Bolick Student Center. Casino Night featured blackjack, Texas hold em, craps and roulette tables. An oxygen bar, catered food and music completed the night perfectly. Highlights of the night involved a costume contest and raffle prizes. The top prizes were two iPad See more pictures Minis won by Ashley London and from the articles @ Hamrah Hedayati. There were also a Piedmontforum.com range of gift certificates and merchandise. All prizes other than the iPads were donated by local businesses, students and faculty. The event was completely free, and no actual money was used. Instead, partygoers received a stack of fake bills on arrival, which they could exchange for poker chips and buy raffle tickets with. If you had a costume, brought your student ID, named an PVCC President Frank Friedman tries his hand at SGA executive board member or dealing blackjack. Photograph by Jessica Hackley volunteered to deal cards, then you received PVCC Safety Presentations Audrey Waldrop, Staff Writer On Wednesday, October 22nd, PVCCs Police Chief Shawn Harrison presented A Conversation about Personal Safety. The session was informative and gave tips that are useful to staff and students alike. This presentation is the beginning to a large array of plans to teach students and faculty how to be safe. In the upcoming weeks there will be sessions on domestic violence, stalking, and other topics about what you can do to protect yourself. PVCC is also looking into self-defense classes for faculty and students as well as bringing the NRAs Refuse to be a Victim Seminar to our campus. Also in planning stages is an active shooter drill for the Spring semester. Our Department of Public Safety and Police department is asking students to begin filing incident reports. To file an incident report go to the PVCC homepage, Quick links, and under the College Info heading click Report an Incident. Future sessions will be recorded and the Safety department is hoping to post them on the Page 5 Not Just For Farmers Anymore: The CVILLE City Market Photography by Jessica Hackley Jessica Hackley, Staff Writer On Saturday mornings between the hours of 7 am and noon, the Water Street parking lot becomes a bustling market, the Charlottesville City Market to be exact. Local vendors with all types of products line the rows where cars normally reside, and the lot crowds with people jumping at the chance to taste the delicious samples, buy the health conscious products, or eat the scrumptious food. The market always has a lively atmosphere and represents the culture of Charlottesville, said Scott Cast, a fellow PVCC student and market-goer. The culture of Charlottesville is indeed characterized by the City Market. Petfriendly, green, health conscious, and delicious foods are all things that I have come to associate with Charlottesville during my stay here, and all of those facets are easily found at the City Market. Vendors focused on health conscious products that were organic, free-range, unprocessed, and home grown or made. Multiple stalls had juices that were made from only the necessary ingredients; such as, Carib --an exotic juice company--the starfruit and passion fruit juices were especially tasty, or Wenger Grapes -a company that not only offered Concord and Niagara slipskin table grapes, but also juices and wine grapes. I personally preferred the white seedless, the best way to describe the taste is a burst of pure grape juice that overtakes your mouth. Other vendors also provided health conscious choices. Greenheart Granola offered handmade batches of organic, preservative free, and gluten free granola. The crunch was excellent and the accompanying raw almond milk was very refreshing. Jam According to Daniel boasts of one pound of local fruit in every jar, no pectin added, and they honestly let you sample any flavor. Interestingly, most vendors also have a comprehensive knowledge of their products and provide samples of the food as they discuss its benefits; some examples of this include the Everona Dairy vendor, who discussed the sheep cheeses that they had available and allowed me to try a sample of multiple varieties. The Everona Piedmont was delightful to the senses and was the first cheese they had produced; the FreshStart cheese was a mozzarella style and with a full Hungry Hill Farm Live Beehive. Photography by flavor and bouncy texture.It was the only fresh Jessica Hackley cheese she had available to try at the time, though the website says that they also provide a pressed ricotta as another fresh selection and many more varieties of aged cheeses. The stone ground corn tortilla stand had samples of fresh quesadillas available, and the vendor offered information about their fresh taste. Hungry Hill Farm offered various knowledge on their bees and honey to Page 6 Market Continued supplement the live beehive they had set up as well as their samples and selection of products. And last but not least, I would recommend a visit to the Great Harvest Bread Company stall in order to grab a taste of the spinach feta for our savory lovers or the cinnamon chip to satisfy a sweet tooth; they will also provide knowledge on their gluten-free varieties. There were also handmade jewelry and other items. The Clockwitch offered handmade steampunk earrings, rings, and charms that are all made out of recycled materials, Inedible Jewelry offered tiny earrings, necklaces, and charms made to look exactly like the food they were representing, and another vendor even offered candles made inside of unexpected holders, such as a martini glass. Food vendors were also a thriving sector of the city market. Through all the food variety to choose from, I had lunch at Pearl Island. They offered a delicious sampling of Caribbean foods and I chose to sample the cajun rice, the sous poulet chicken, the veggie creole beans, and the tostones with lemon aioli. The tostones were crunchy and the aioli supplemented them nicely, but the real deal breaker was the chicken that literally melted in my mouth and was succulent beyond description. I definitely recommend a stop at this stand. On an even more positive note, they take credit cards. Payment at the City Market is made fairly simple. Most of the vendors accept credit or debit cards, along with cash--those that only accept cash will also take tokens. Tokens are available at the Market Central information stand and can be used for vendors to redeem cash. The information stand will only take a debit card as payment for the tokens, so just a credit card will not allow you to sample all of the stands. If you like farmers markets too (or in this case city markets) then give them a chance; they have many scheduled slots in the Water street parking lot. Saturdays April through October, the hours will stay the same of 7 am to Noon; however, November 30th through December 21st, the hours will become 8 am-1 pm, and the Market will be renamed the Holiday Markets. Wednesdays, May through September, Farmers in the Park will Chef Ralph Brown, Ralph Brown Jr, Lindsay Ohen and David Blackmon Photograph by Samantha Prentiss. Eating Healthy, Cooking Healthy Jackie Morris, Staff Writer The Bolick Center was filled with beautiful aromas on Monday, October 20th. The Black Student Alliance club at PVCC arranged a signature event to get your taste buds involved and your mind activated with the joy of cooking. Chef Robert Brown Sr., PVCC alumni, was the master behind the demo, demonstrating the making of an omelet. The theme was breakfast, the most important meal of the day. Brown said People tend to think that breakfast is hard. They skip breakfast because its hard to do. This statement relates to college students well, in that they usually sleep away breakfast time as a result of late night studying. Brown assured that breakfast can be easy, If you prep the food at night, it will be easier to cook in the morning because everything is already ready. He emphasized the importance of fresh fruits and fresh vegetables incorporated into meals, Im here to teach people how to eat healthy. Vice President of the BSA, David, explained the importance of this event, Most of us [BSA Members] grew up around their grandmothers cooking. We were around their cooking which usually involved the grits, the fried foods this event helps the healthy campaign; to provide a healthy alternative for foods for BSA and the community. From the look of the faces of those 7 who received their omelets, the public Page agreed that healthy food can also be tasty. Crossword Puzzle Read and Learn Want more? Piedmontforum.com Kevin Spacey Speaks at UVA By Kaitlyn Duvalois, Staff Writer Buzzing college students, long lines, and nosebleed seats surrounded Kevin Spacey, this year at the UVA President Speaker Series. Spacey opened up with a slam at the Hokies and a clich how I became famous story. But, Spacey, as expected, did pull House of Cards, his popular Netflix original series, into his speech, which was Photograph Courtesy of Marshall Bronfin from The Cavalier Daily Page 8 Halloween Continued to an end. Christian missionaries eventually made their way to Ireland and after unsuccessfully trying to do away with Celtic tradition, they sought to transform it. Instead of benevolent souls, the missionaries tried to convince the Celts that the spirits they were paying respect to were evil and demonic. It did not work. They then changed the Celts new year, November 1st,to All Saints Day and tried to get them to worship saints instead. That also did not work. The Celts continued with their worship and merriment, and reclaimed All Saints Day as All Hallows Day. But, it was on the night before All Hallows Day, on All Hallows Evening (or Hallow Een), that the Celts continued to celebrate the end of the harvest and their dead. As more and more of the Irish immigrated to America, so did the ways of Samhain. Many different European ethnic groups and Native American beliefs and traditions contributed to a more Americanized Hallow Een. Soon, history became legend, legend became myth, and Hallow Eens pagan background slowly faded and meshed into what has become one of the biggest secular holidays in the world. Check out some fun Halloween facts: During Samhain, people would also dress up to confuse evil spirits into mistaking them for other spirits. This is where costumes come from. About two billion dollars is spent on Halloween candy annually. Chocolate is a Halloween favorite, and about ninety million pounds of it is made during Halloween week. An intense fear of Halloween is called Samhainophobia. The first Jack oLanterns were first made from turnips, and came from the legend of Stingy Jack. People carved Comic by Andie Meddaugh Page 9 Inside the Brony Club at PVCC Michael McGrew, Staff Writer One might wonder what goes on in a room full of adults watching a cartoon with a targeted demographic of girls ages 8-12. Surprising, while one might suspect a group of socially awkward individuals uncomfortable with their societally expected roles, you instead find a diverse group of people talking about how to better others lives. In the hour long meeting, a 22-minute cartoon of My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic was watched; the entire rest of the meeting was dedicated to what charity work the group could focus on. Volunteering to take care of a highway (which requires a two-year commitment from any group that signs up), events to raise money for local homeless shelters, and even donating to local animal shelters were discussed. There was even concern raised to make sure to only donate supplies needed to the animal shelter to ensure there was no chance any monetary donations are used to fund euthanasia of animals, an unfortunate but sadly frequent outcome for overcrowded shelters. They eventually agreed to work for the homeless shelter; raising money as well as making packed lunches for the less fortunate. We wanted to create a place for everyone who didnt feel like there was a club for them, said Ben Gump, one of the leaders of the club. The leaders hoped that it could be more than just people who were enthusiasts of the show also called Bronies a combination of bro and pony.. Originally brony specifically meant a male fan of My Little Pony, specially the fourth generation of the show. The term Pegasister, a combination of Pegasus and Sister, was originally used for female fans, but is largely underused currently with female fans simply self-identifying as bronies. When asked to describe themselves, Ben Gump simply smirked and stated, Were the island of misfit toys, and I want to be a dentist. The show focuses on the adventures of six mares, called the mane six by fans. In each episode, a character or characters have to deal with a conflict and how it relates to their friendship with Photograph by Samantha Prentiss others. Despite the targeted age group the show was made for, it includes a lot of pop-culture references only older views would ever pick up on, such as references to Gone with the W ind. The developer and producer of the show, Lauren Faust, who has worked on others animations such as Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends or Powerpuff girls, stated her goal was a girls cartoon that wasnt bad and offered there was no wrong way to be a girl. Clearly that philosophy of character design has resulted in a cast strong enough to attract a fan base of adults to a cartoon aimed at a much younger audience. It is, however, not all sunshine and pastel colored equines for the club. They admit when they first started they had to deal with suspicion of their group. We had to prove we werent being shady, that we werent a bunch of child molesters, one member of the group revealed, wishing to remain anonymous. When we first started, we Page 10 Club Classifieds/Events Write and Win Veterans Event Annual Writers Unite 3Minute Horror Story Contest! If you missed it, check it out next year! The top 3 entrants receive a certificate. First place receives a fabulous Halloween Care Winner Annette Cashatt. Photograph by Jennifer Koster Artist? Editor?... Writer? Photographer? ...PVCCs is looking for YOU to Location: PVCC Main Campus Time: During College Hour (12:00pm-1:00pm) Date: Tuesday, November 11 This event will celebrate Veterans Day. At 12 noon, it will begin with A Marching of the Colors by the UVA Colorguard and be followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, Star Spangled Banner, Moment of Silence, and Military Tribute. After the welcome occurs there will be a brunch buffet from 12:35pm-12:50pm before the Keynote and SVA President speak. Take the Student Survey: Win Prizes Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information EXPLORE. WRITE. GAIN EXPERI- Student Roundtable on Gender Equality Location: Main Building in the Auditorium ( Room 229) Time : During College Hour (12:00pm-1:00pm) Date: Monday November 3rd This event is open to all interested PVCC students. This event is a student roundtable. Focused discussing topics related to gender equality, gender equality issues, and how gender equality and gender bias Photograph by Jessica Hackley Page 11 Classifieds PIEDMONT VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Contact Us PVCC The Forum 501 College Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22902 theforum@pvcc.edu 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: theforum@pvcc.edu Do You Want to Make a Difference? The Forum Staff (Listed alphabetically) Piedmont Virginia Community College invites applications for full and part-time faculty and staff positions. Day and evening shifts are available at all locations. Detailed job descriptions, position requirements and application procedures are available at: http://www.pvcc.edu/human_resources/ employment/ Know of any Community Events, Announcements, or Advertisements youd like to list? Contribute and Submit to PVCCs Contact us at theforum@pvcc.edu for more information 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 theforum@pvcc.edu with any questions. Assistant Editors Annette Cashatt Jessica Hackley Photography Editor Samantha Prentiss Social Media Coordinators Winston Garnett Jessica Hackley Staff Writers/Copyeditors Zachary Carter Annette Cashatt Idette Charlie Quamia Dennis Austin Ellis Winston Garnett Jessica Hackley Fitz Irving Jr Devan Kaufman Michael McGrew Jackie Morris Audrey Waldrop Alexis Williams Comic Artist Andie Meddaugh Faculty Advisor Dr. Tamara Whyte  ...