Barefoot Corban students swaying their hips to music in Schimmel Hall–thought this would never happen? Well it did.
Once last semester and on, March 29, the Pacific Islander’s Club and guests met for an afternoon of hula-dancing instruction. Because hula-dancing focuses on hip movements, everyone watched in disbelief as one of the dance teacher shook her hips in a Shakira-esque manner. Her hips didn’t lie. The imitators looked around and laughed knowing they would never be able to move their hips like that.
Club president, Anthony Martin, said he brought the Pacific Islander’s Club to Corban after being involved with one at Chemeketa Community College. The club embraces the diversity of the different cultures of Hawaii, Philippines, Marshall Islands and Polynesia and seeks to share it with others. Karen Ramos said, “’No brownness is required to be part of our club’ is even written in our constitution.” Martin also stressed that fact. “It is educational and fun for everyone,” he said.
This club has been operating all year and sponsored several events each semester, such as volleyball, a potluck, movie night and craft day. At their most recent event on March 29, Pasefika, a club of dancers, came to Schimmel Hall to teach members and others traditional Polynesian dancing.
Along with Anthony Martin, officers include Karen Ramos, Vice President; Genesis Acuna, Treasurer; Abel Orbistondo, Ministries; Jessica Baughman, Media/Communications.
In order to be a club, Martin said they are required to have three activities a year and an employee overseer, Heidi Stowman. Stowman showed up for their afternoon of hula-dancing. Required to take off her tall black boots, her long pink and yellow striped socks with her professional black skirt brought forth giggles from the other dancers. But she enjoyed herself she said.
A typical event usually has about 30-35 people attending. Martin said eventually they would like to do a mission trip to the Philippines. For the time being, however, their next event will be an appearance at the ASB sponsored club carnival.
On Thursday, April 14, in the Gym overflow lot, the Pacific Islander’s Club along with other clubs will be present. Their booth will offer island-style food made by New Hope church. Club members themselves will make lumpia which is a Filipino version of egg rolls, and Pasefika will be performing a hula-dance. Jessica Baughman will be shooting pictures for students at their island-themed photo booth.