Students greet video arcade reopening with mixed reactions; ASVC benefits

By Stephanie Simonson and Nicole Porto

VCNC reporters

The Ventura College video arcade room, located near the cafeteria entrance, was re-opened Tuesday, Jan. 29. The room had been shut down for months due to re-wiring in the cafeteria.

Some students on campus are happy that the games are running again; others are not. "It gives me a good mental break," said Ron Edwards, a 37-year-old sophomore.

However, Amy Lanzarotta, a 19-year-old freshman, said, “I think it’s distracting because you go to school to learn not to go and play arcade games.”  Richard LaPaglia, student activities director, said the arcade room benefits students in a couple of ways. "It is a good income without a lot of maintenance, [and] provides a relaxing activity for students between classes,” LaPaglia said.

The arcade consists of 15 games such as Indiana Jones Pinball and Cruisin’ World 2. LaPaglia said that the arcade vendor, State Street Amusements, would accept any suggestions for new games as long as they are appropriate for school grounds.

Not only are the games a form of entertainment for students, they also help raise funds for the Associated Students of Ventura College. LaPaglia said that half of the money made from the arcade games goes to the ASVC for educational programs and the other half goes to State Street Amusements.