thecollegian Friday, Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
INSIDE
One free copy
Delta intent on putting smokers out by justin tristano ju.tristano@gmail.com
Symphony adds new style to performance Page 5
Mustangs stand strong against American River Page 7
Right and wrong way to say you care for Valentine's Page 4
UPCOMING Last day to drop without a "W" coming soon on Feb. 9 Softball plays against Taft College Feb. 11, cost is $6 for general admission
FIND US
Delta College students have noticed new signs posted informing them about an upcoming policy change aimed to make the campus a healthier environment. After July 14, Delta will officially be a "TobaccoFree" campus. Students, faculty and staff will be fined $33 to $100, depending on the number of offenses commited. "The use of any tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited everywhere on District property. This includes District vehicles, leased vehicles for college use, buildings, basements, roof tops, hallways, offices, individual offices, athletic facilities, pathways, grass areas, trees, orchards, vineyards, fields, bus stops, roadways, parking lots, and inside parked vehicles on campus," according to a news release sent out to the campus. Delta College is also defining smoking as “engaging in an act that generates smoke, such as possessing a lighted pipe; a lighted hookah pipe; PHOTO BY JUSTIN TRISTANO operating an electronic cigarette; a lighted cigar; a NO BUTTS ALLOWED: Delta student Chris Staggs enjoys a cigarette in the Shima 1 lighted cigarette of any kind; or lighting or igniting a pipe, a hookah pipe, a cigar, or a cigarette parking lot on Feb. 5. Behind him, the smoking ban sign looms. of any kind." "There are two types of smokers, the ones who are considerate In 2001 Delta passed a ban that moved smokers to the grass beof others and clean up, and ones who just don't care," said Delta hind Shima. Student Joshua Johasky. In 2008 and 2009 Delta recorded a large increase in the amount Once everything was put together, Delta decided it would be best of smokers at that area. Due to the increase there was also an into remove smoking from campus completely. The proposed change crease in complaints regarding crime and health concerns. was presented to the board during a November meeting last year, In 2010, Delta updated the policy to move any smokers to the allowing students and staff to comment. parking lot. The policy was talked about and considered until it was passed A Health and Safety committee attempted to find parts of Delta’s on Dec 17. campus to develop into designated smoking zones. "We are just waiting for a year to see if the ban actually effects Some areas were chosen to develop them to fit with ADA regulaanything on campus," said Delta student Alexander Williams. tions, but the cost would be high. Delta is currently sending email reminders about the policy, postSeveral of the locations were also too close to foot traffic. The ing signs and intent on creating smoke free pamphlets and fliers. project was then abandoned. "We lost this battle so we are going to wait and see what happens. Smoking related issues continued to rise on campus. In 2015 if the crime rate goes up or doesn't change than we will Several smokers moved out to the hill in the Cunningham 1 parkfight it. If it does go down than we will accept it," said Johasky. ing lot and the smoke would drift into the child development cenThe biggest concern of most smokers on campus is where they ter. will go now and how long it will be before the local businesses ban Delta began to research alternatives and found that they could them from the premises if they all start gathering at them. attach a fee along with the policy.
Board of Trustees elects new president by heidi sharp
news@deltacollegian.net
The Delta College Board of Trustees has elected board member Taj M. Khan as its president for the 2013-14 year. A long time Lodi resident retired engineer and community activist, Khan will serve out one year as president of the Board of Trustees. First appointed to the board in 2009, Khan assumed his duties immediately following the Dec. 17 meeting.
Workers clear out Cunningham in preparation for demolition by chris howze
news@deltacollegian.net
The new Science and Math Building is now open with classes beginning there this semester. That also means students might have noticed the Cunningham Building has been gated off. The second-floor breezeway connecting Shima to Cunningham is blocked off by fences and benches. Parking lots near Cunningham are blocked off for construction equipment. It's finally time to begin the tear down of Cunnigham, but what does that entail
and what does it mean for the rest of the campus? Stacy Pinola, facilities planner/environmental health manager, said the process of demolition will take place over four phases. Once the building was ready for inhabitants the first phase was moving offices and classes over. Phase two is moving all the furniture out of Cunningham for surplus or redistribution throughout campus. Phase three will be the removal of hazardous materials with the final phase being the full tear down of Cunningham
continued on PAGE 8
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opinion
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
THE BATTLE FOR BREATHING ROOM
Collegian editors butt heads over campus policy change making Delta College smoke free in July by heidi sharp whsharp@yahoo.com
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oes smoking cause over 400,000 deaths per year? Yes. Do smokers die significantly earlier than non-smokers? Yes. Do I smoke? No. But do all those facts give me or anyone else the right to tell someone not to smoke — absolutely not. This is essentially what this ban does. Being a pregnant woman, one would think that I would be for this ban. I am, CON totally however, totally against it. The majority of Delta's smokers convene in a small area of the campus. Should I wish to avoid the smoke, I can simply walk around the area in question. These smokers are not within 20 feet of a working window or door of the campus, and there are plenty of other places for nonsmoking students to walk through to avoid the smoke and smell. Just because you do not like the smell of something, does not mean you have the right to ban it. Stockton and Lodi residents drive by dairy farms every day, and do not like the smells from those, but does that necessarily mean they need to be banned from where they are? No! Because of this new ordinance, nonsmokers would be required to walk all the way off campus, past the parking lots, to the sidewalk in order to have a smoke. For some students, there simply isn’t enough time to achieve this and enjoy their cigarette break between some classes.
This ban even includes e-cigarettes! The e-cigarettes produce no toxic chemicals, and leave behind no butt! They are the least harmful cigarette in existence, and no one should be complaining about them. The only person who is affected by the e-cigarettes is the person smoking them, unless the school is attempting to encourage, (or force) people to quit by passing this rule. In short, they can no longer smoke. How dare the school government strip away the right of a student? It is preposterous and needs to be repealed immediately. It is on the student whether or not she decides to quit. It is not the responsibility of the school to make that happen. We are in college, not day care. I propose that a designated smoking area be created, well away from the main area of campus, but close enough that someone can have their smoke on their break. How about the grassy area as one walks onto the campus from the Shima 1 parking lot — right where they used to be? If they were far enough from open windows and doors at that time, then they are far away enough from the fresh air intake towers. They did not bother anyone. They were not obnoxious or rude. Also, as I walked by every single day, I felt they were far enough away that I didn’t feel my rights to not smoke being infringed upon. Sometimes, a cigarette is the last reprieve a smoker has during their busy, hectic day; why take that from them?
by kenneth huntley news@deltacollegian.net
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elta College’s Board of Trustees recently passed an ordinance that strengthens the no-smoking policy on campus. According to the Delta College Police website, AP/BP 3570 is a new law instituting the campus as no-smoking zone, including popular light up spots in campus parking lots. As of July 14, water pipes and electronic cigarettes will not be allowed as well. PRO "Smoking" means engaging in an act that generates smoke and/ or vapors, such as possessing a lighted pipe; a lighted hookah pipe; operating an electronic cigarette; a lighted cigar; a lighted cigarette of any kind; or lighting or igniting a pipe, a hookah pipe, a cigar, or a cigarette of any kind," according to the ordinance. I agree with the Board of Trustees’ decision to extend to law so that smoking on campus is banned completely, whether it’s near buildings or a parking lot. The plume of smoke non-smoking students and staff travel through from the bus stop in Shima 1 parking lot makes my breathing a bit labored and hurts my chest. I understand that the smokers have created a small area to smoke in, but the smoke still moves towards the bus shelter and path of travel to the campus. I’m also hearing the argument of allowing ashtrays on campus from both Delta College staff and students. But let me take you to a time when I previously attended the college back from 2002 to 2006.
That’s back when there were designated smoking areas on campus. People wouldn’t just smoke at said areas. This included sitting in front of the fresh air intake towers, which have clear no-smoking signs attached. Staff and students would smoke in front of the towers. Many times I would see students smoking in the quad. It bothered me that people just didn’t care about the health of others. Smoking near the fresh air in-take towers was allowing smoke to enter the buildings’ ventilation systems, compromising air circulation. The Delta College Police were lenient and gave staff and students a plethora of chances to use the designated smoking areas, trying to keep peace. Due to the thoughtlessness of a few people, the campus officials have taken a firm stand on smoking on campus. The latest question I heard from the smokers in Shima 1 parking lot: "What about the disabled smokers. Where are they going to smoke?" They will have to follow the same rules. They will have to travel off campus. I can say that I am looking forward to July 14, when the law goes into full effect. For once it will be peace on my asthma. I won’t have to hold my breath to avoid cigarette smoke while walking from the bus. It will also bring beauty back to the campus: no more cigarette butts scattered all over the campus shrubbery and trees. Nor will there be butts on the asphalt. Smokers will be fuming but the new law will bring a breath of fresh air to the Delta College campus — literally.
THE COLLEGIAN — SPRING 2014 Editor/feature editor Chris Howze News editor Justin Tristano Sports editor Jermaine Davis Copy/entertainment editor Kenneth Huntley Opinion editor Heidi Sharp
Staff Alexis Bustamante Eric Carranza Monica Gomez Sonya Herrera Michael Johnson Robert Juarez Santana Juache Orlando Jose Seth Lowman Eleanor Mafi Sean Mendoza Sean Reilly Richard Reyes Diane Rivera Adviser Tara Cuslidge-Staiano
Advertising The Collegian offers display advertising at competitive rates. Call (209) 954-5156 or email deltacollegian@gmail.com for more information. Letters to the editor Letters raising issues and opinions not represented by the newspaper are encouraged, but should not be taken as a reflection of the opinions of the staff or adviser. Editorial Unsigned editorials reflect the position of the entire Collegian staff.
Comments, letters and editorials with a byline represent the opinion of the writer, solely. This paper does not endorse or represent the opinions of the adviser, the mass communication department, the Fine Arts Division, the printer or San Joaquin Delta College administration.
Mission statement The Collegian is a student run First Amendment newspaper that prides itself on its commitment to the students of San Joaquin Delta College while maintaining its independence of any outside influence. The Collegian will reinvigorate the credo that the newspaper speaks for the students, checks abuses of power and stands vigilant in the protection of democracy and free speech.
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opinion
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
Writer urges 'morons' to slow down in campus parking lots by kenneth huntley news@deltacollegian.net
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isten up Delta College staff and students driving motorized vehicles to campus: It’s time to review the Department of Motor Vehicles handbook again. If you’re speeding because you are running late, leave home earlier. To the ones guilty of going 20 mph over the speed limit near the child development center: will you please think of the children? Staff and students who use mobility devices such as wheelchairs also bring their height down to about the four-foot level. Speeding makes it harder to see these individuals. Slow down you morons. Distractions are another concern. Is that cell phone super glued to your head? Hey you, yes you, the one texting and gaming. Candy Crush can wait. You’re on level 85? Give it a break. Put the phone down and drive.
Stop signs on campus are meant to stop vehicles before proceeding further. That means a complete stop. If you want a California roll, get yourself some sushi. To the tailgaters: There’s a bumper sticker that compares you to hemorrhoids. Perhaps following the suggestion of said bumper sticker would do you some good. Delta College has a bus stop on campus for San Joaquin RTD and Medical Transport Vehicles. These buses need room. They are a lot bigger than your Nissan. Park in a stall and wait for your passenger instead of lingering near the bus zone. Also: Automakers install turn signals on all vehicles. It’s been standard for many years. So let’s start using them before you make a turn, people. Turn down that radio, no one wants to feel the beat of Miley Cyrus' "Wrecking Ball" or the Kanye West's "Bound 2." If your vehicle is a diesel, turn it
off. Nobody wants to breath those emissions in. You guys are the reason for the no idling laws in California. To the ones who park in the handicap parking stalls without a placard: You better have a disability. Having to go like a racehorse isn’t a disability … unless you have ridiculously small kidneys and have medical proof. To the ones who keep circling the C-1 and L-1 parking lots not once but multiple times, trying to find a parking spot. Throw in the white towel. There are many other parking lots on campus and many other places to park. That walking might do you some good too. Speaking of walking, if you have to walk far to get to class, you might want to adjust your pants so they don't trip you. If you don’t have time to get a handbook from the DMV, let someone throw one at your head. Perhaps the shock absorption from the book will educate you to not be a moron on the road.
On January 28, Obama gave his State of the Union Address. He touched upon many topics including equal pay for women, the Affordable Care Act and the threat of chemical weapons in Syria. During his address, there was no mention of anything related to the farm bill and SNAP cuts. He only urged businesses to pay employees more and said he is pushing Congress to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour. Realistically, the only way to cut down on the cost of SNAP is to get people off the program by raising the minimum wage so they can lead more independent lives. A study done by the Center for Poverty at the University of Kentucky found low-wage jobs with SNAP supplement is more common for the working poor, according to another Huffington Post article, published on Jan. 27 titled "The New Face of Food Stamps: Working-Age Americans." The study found that more than 50 percent of people participating in the SNAP program are between the ages 18-59. In regards to education, 28 percent of households receiving SNAP are headed by a person with some college training — up 8 percent since the 1980s. People with four-year college
degrees make up 7 percent, up from 3 percent. People with only a high school diploma make up the majority at 37 percent, up 9 percent. High school dropouts only make up 28 percent of SNAP-receiving households, half of that in the 1980s. The only largely unchanged statistic since the 1980s is that an unemployed person heads 53 percent of SNAP households. From these statistics we can gather that at least half the citizens on SNAP are employed. Many are even pursuing higher education. "Those at the top have never done better. But average wages have barely budged. Inequality has deepened. Upward mobility has stalled. Massive shifts in technology and global competition had eliminated a lot of good, middle-class jobs, and weakened the economic foundations that families depend on," said Obama in his State of the Union Address. The problem isn’t the people, the problem is the system. In order for these problems to be fixed, working Americans need to stay in school to further their education. And minimum wage needs to be raised for the average Americans to be able to support themselves and their families.
Aid cuts reignite minimum wage debate by santana juache news@deltacollegian.net
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ast November, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamp program, was cut by $5 billion, according to a Huffington Post article published on Jan. 31 titled "Food Stamp Cuts so Devastating Even Walmart is Too Expensive." The cut came around the holidays, affecting 47 million Americans, including veterans, who depend on the extra aid, according to the article. This year, a farm bill cutting another $800 million from the program cleared the House of Representatives 251-166, according to an article from The Washington Post dated Jan. 29 titled "Farm Bill Passes House After Years of Disagreement." SNAP covers one in seven Americans and currently costs around $80 billion. The $800 million cut is only 1 percent of that. Republicans wanted it to be cut by 5 percent, or $4 billion. The cut is so that legislation can continue to subsidize crops for our nation’s farmers. This will only go into effect if it’s also approved by the Senate and then approved by the President Barack Obama. Obama is expected to pass it.
two little lines pregnant with heidi sharp
Online classes offer benefits to pregnant students
Heidi Sharp, 22, is a part-time Delta College student and part-time barista at your favorite coffee shop. She married her high school sweetheart, Wesley, in 2012. The same year, the couple purchased their first home in Stockton. They've been parents to three fish, two cats and dog. Now, thanks to two little lines on a pregnancy test, the Sharp's are expanding in July.
I
have never been pregnant before, so my experiences everyday with this "condition" bring new surprises. Like an aching back. Or sciatic nerve pain. I am, however, going to share a magical tool that I discovered while thinking about all the walking that is required at Delta College. Online Classes. They are done at your leisure, and as long as the assignment is in before the deadline, there is no being late to class. There are no uncomfortable chairs to sit in, or hope you fit in! Also, dealing with changes in a pregnant body (sometimes embarrassing) can be dealt with in the privacy of one's own home. The best part is the frequent bathroom breaks, which must be taken in (yikes) bathrooms at Delta. Even though the bathrooms have been renovated, it is still not your own bathroom. I suppose online classes could be a benefit to anyone who is uncomfortable, for any reason, in a school setting. For pregnant women especially, however, at least some online classes are a must to avoid those swelling feet! I realize that pregnant women should be exercising, but walking between classes, sometimes upstairs, and getting all sweaty during school doesn't sound like good exercise to me. The good news is that Delta offers many online classes in different fields. Obviously certain classes can't be taken online, such as lab classes for science. Almost all my business classes, which are very popular, are offered online at one point or another. Every online classes I have "attended" has been well-structured and easy to follow. The teachers are helpful and offer office hours if one really needs to meet. Personally, I will avoid campus as much as possible if I have the option! I consider it a blessing to have such technology at my disposal to make being a pregnant student much easier.
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feature
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
RIGHT & WRONG WAYS TO SHOW YOU CARE ON
VALENTINE'S DAY by chris howze
news@deltacollegian.net
It’s February and for most people that means Valentine’s Day is on the mind. Part of me wants to chastise the creation of what I consider a fake holiday made up for candy companies to use of the bulk supply of chocolate left over from Halloween and Christmas. Another part of me remembers I’ve been with the same woman for five years and while I try my best every day to show her how much I love her, this day is as good as any other to exclaim your love for one
another. The problem is that it seems everyone goes on autopilot on Valentine’s Day, especially with big box stores filled with heart-shaped boxes before the New Year even begins. It’s formulaic almost: Buy candy. Get her a shiny necklace. Lull the masses into a consumerist stupor. I don’t feel that way, though. Valentine’s Day should require thought, or at least a game plan and knowledge of what’s right and wrong to give to your love. Because I am such a giving person, here’s a guide to making it through next Friday’s holiday without missteps.
FOOD & DINING DO
DON'T
Plan a date at your favorite restaurant. It Score another victory for apathy and buy the heartdoesn’t have to be a fancy place, but that would shaped pizza at Papa Murphy’s. earn some bonus points. It never actually looks like a heart. And it’s called the Go someplace you like to go, somewhere you "Heartbaker," which doesn’t exactly elicit warm and fuzzy can look at each other while waiting for your feelings for the love of your life. meal and just talk. A good, solid talk is a vastly underappreciated facet of any solid relationship.
MUSIC DO Make a new playlist on your love’s iPod. Or compile a playlist and burn a
CD. If you do either, remember the important part: THINK about what the songs you chose actually mean. Don’t just hit "add to playlist" because something has a catchy hook or a slow beat. Remember you are utilizing someone else’s poetry to express how you feel about this particular person. Don’t be the person playing "Every Breath You Take" by The Police at a wedding, the song is about stalking.
DON'T Slap together some playlist with songs you have construed as romantic and not do any research. Just because songs such as Pearl Jam’s "Black" sound pleasant, mellow and romantic, doesn’t mean they actually are. Listen to the lyrics. If you don’t understand the lyrics, use Google to filter them out better. Maybe the reason so many relationships fail in this world are coalescent with a lack of paying any attention to the lyrics of the songs you share.
GOING OUT OR STAYING IN DO
DON'T
When it comes to movies I think you have one of two viable options, but the key to both is make it a special occasion. You can go out and see a new movie in the local theater, though usually early in February the cinemas are filled with a collection of bad films. The other is stay at home and have a pajama-clad movie night complete with plenty of popcorn, ice cream and snuggling. If you share hobbies, make sure you take advantage of them no matter how benign, trivial or nerdy you think they may be. From personal experience there is something fun about challenging each other to a six-on-six Pokemon battle, or seeing who’s better at "Magic: The Gathering."
Just pass up the opportunity to do something as simple as sitting down and both enjoying something together. Even worse is you taking the reins and making the night about what you want to watch without asking your significant other their opinion. Just because you like "Night of the Living Dead" doesn’t mean they will. Actually, if you think that’s an appropriate move for Valentine’s Day, you may need more tips than I can provide.
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feature
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
Stockton Symphony impresses audience with electric violinist by alexis bustamante news@deltacollegian.net
Tracy Silverman's performance, with the support of the Stockton Symphony, at the Atherton Auditorium was exhilarating. Silverman, the world's first concert electric violinist, headlined the “Symphony in the Groove” event. Peter Jaffe, music director and conductor of the Stockton Symphony, said the purpose of the event was to explore the use of various grooves found in different compositions of music. “A groove,” Jaffe said, “it’s all about patterns, setting up patterns that repeat over and over again, in a beautifully hypnotic way.” Silverman gave a rendition of Kenji Bunch’s composition of “Embrace.” With an electrical twist, Silverman masterfully mixed unorthodox finger picking with classic violin bow strumming during the unique piece. Silverman's violin sounded like a rough electrical guitar at first, while he was finger picking, but it would digress back to a smooth violin sound as he would strum with a bow. Silverman's performance was enhanced by the use of a pedal board for his violin, which he used to record and play back a loop in real time. This gave the effect of multiple electrical violinists playing alongside him. Silverman and the Stockton Symphony weren’t the only ones performing during the event, the crowd joined in by clapping and chanting when signaled by Jaffe during specific motions of the performance. After Silverman finished his concert, the Stockton Symphony gave enjoyable renditions of Rossini Overture to William Tell theme song to “The Lone Ranger,” J.S Bach’s “Little” Fugue in G Minor, Falla “The Miller's Dance and Final Dance from “The Three-Cornered Hat.” As Jaffe closed the concert, he reminded the patrons that the Stockton Symphony always welcomes new guests. Jaffe said he hopes to see concertgoers attend future events.
ON THE SIGNAL HUNT
Campus offers good, bad spots to link into wireless networks for student use by sean reilly
news@deltacollegian.net
Finding a decent WiFi signal on the Delta College campus is easier said than done. Depending on who your provider is, there are parts of campus where students have trouble even getting a signal for calls and texts. The bad: parts of lower Danner Hall, Shima, Budd, Holt and Locke. The good: Lower Danner Hall, Goleman Library and the new Science & Mathematics Building. Some students say the speed is good on campus. David Leca, a student, said there should be a campuswide strong signal so students can use tablets or computers to access ebooks in classrooms. Tareka McClellan, a member of ASBG and student trustee on the Board of Education, said there are good sig-
nals in library, the new Science & Mathematics Building and the ASBG office. McClellan said students have a hard time accessing class schedule to get a student ID. The subject has come up at past board meetings. Jeff Sears from the Data Center on campus said the access points on most the campus are outdated. Sears said the campus is looking to bring an outside company in to update access the access points. Student James Yax uses the network, but James Yax, said he has a hard time student using wi-fi in the mobility center where he works on campus. "I always have tried to get it in but it never seems to work for me," Yax said. Student Anai Arteaga said she use the network only when she knows it will work for her. "I use it in the library because I know that's the place to use student WiFi," Artega said.
"... it never seems to work for me."
IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE: Top, the Stockton Symphony stood as the audience applauded. Right, an image of the flier that was advertising Tracy Silverman's Facebook page and email adddress. TOP PHOTO BY ALEXIS BUSTAMANTE, RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY ART
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entertainment
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
African American films bring culture to theaters
by michael johnson news@deltacollegian.net
Time and time again, Hollywood has come up short when it comes to maintaining diverse story lines and cast members. Films featuring prominent African American leads are rarely part of the mainstream movie scene. However, Tinsel Town has seen a series of releases in the past year that emphasize African American plots. These films include "12 Years a Slave," "Fruitvale Station" and Lee Daniel’s "The Butler." Films such as these started a trend becoming known as "Hollywood’s African American film renaissance." These were just a few of the compelling Black stories that hit the Box Office in late 2013. Why such notoriety now? Some believe having a Black president in the White House has made people more open to seeing African Americans on the big screen.
"Obama is used as a catalyst for Black America’s success," said Harvey Weinstein in an interview via The Wrap’s website. Another factor may be the friction caused by the not guilty verdict of George Zimmerman in the Trevon Martin murder trial. This may have brought to the attention of all Americans that social and racial injustices still exist today. Movies such as "Fruitvale Station," which illustrated the murder of a young Black man at the hands of a white cop in Oakland, may have opened the lines of communication, which allow writers to inform the world about the African-American experience in America. People want familiarity and won’t pay to see story lines they don’t understand or can’t identify with. The overall goal is to make telling stories more clear for a general audience. Hollywood had seen an increase of films featuring African American characters and themes in the past.
Films such as "Boyz 'N' The Hood," "Waiting to Exhale," "Malcolm X" and a handful of other films received nationwide recognition in the 1990s. We saw it even earlier with the so-called "blacksploitation" film era in the 1970s when such films as "Let’s Do it Again," "Coffy" and "Cooley High" portrayed urban life on the big screen, which was unseen at that time. "It should have happened a long time ago-but it’s finally happening now," said Weinstein in The Wrap interview. Gil Robertson, co-founder of the African-American Film Critic Association told CNN: "I think the American attitude has changed with regards to going to see films that perhaps feature all black cast that tell black stories." For the past 40 years, Hollywood has seen the "trend" of black cinema but that devastating flame would constantly burn out. Hopefully, this recent boom will be more than just a flash in the pan.
RTV moves into new broadcast realm by diane rivera
news@deltacollegian.net
Delta College’s Radio and Television Department (RTV) is seeing changes: a new format for its news station and a push toward receiving FCC licensing to broadcast beyond campus. The changes allow better opportunities for the program and its students. Many programs across the country are doing the same, but not many of them are at two-year schools. "I believe our students would be in a better position to be more competitive when applying to four year universities, internships or entry level jobs in the broadcasting industry," said Adriana Brogger, RTV professor. Also, not all students desire to work in news, some want to be filmmakers, directors or work in radio. Other improvements include a new logo and branding as well as a revamped virtual set. "The new News Production style will be more professional than anything they have done in the past," said Rod Villagomez, radio production professor. The news program focuses on hyperlocal campus news or news that impacts the whole college community. "The new news format is one that mirrors industry standard for example PHOTOS COURTESY OF RTV our newscast was created to be visually appealing, informative and look like NEW ERA: Melinda Morco and Seth Lowman anchor the revamped DCTV something the viewer may see on a na- Newscast, top. Gaby Muro reports on a new campus technology, bottom. tional news network," said Brogger. The department is also working to secure FCC Licensing so the news program would be- know by the end of the semester for a fall opening, but come an actual broadcasting program in addition to be- we realize that it’s not in our hands," said Villagomez. RTV had an FCC license in the 1990s but they uning used for instructional purposes. fortunately lost it and it was a huge blow to the departThe program would be a commercial station. ment. The application to the FCC was accepted. Now proOnce licensing is reinstated, the program would be gram directors are waiting for permission from the FCC able to offer students the opportunity to work in a proto move on to stage two, which will be the construction fessional environment. phase that will include testing equipment and broadcast "We’re excited for the new semester. There are lots of capabilities. returning students who are ready to do big things," said "We are hoping to find out soon but we would like to Villagomez.
REVIEW
'Ride Along' drives to give audiences slapstick humor by eric carranza news@deltacollegian.net
"Men In Black," "Bad Boys" and "Rush Hour" make room for this winter’s big action duo movie hit – "Ride Along." Movies similar to the ones listed are part of a trend where two very different personas are paired up on the screen. "Ride Along" is no different as it keeps the trend of opposite actors attracting to become a big money maker. The movie captured the No. 1 Box Office spot for three straight weeks. "Ride Along" also broke January records with an amazing $41.6 million over a weekend, according to Box Office Mojo. The movie has put its pitch into possibly being the best movie in 2014. And the year has just begun – that says a lot. Then again is anyone really surprised this movie would be this great? We are talking about Kevin Hart, who is considered to be the funniest man alive, arguably being paired with rap-artistturned-movie-star Ice Cube. Ice Cube also has a trend himself when it comes to a movie success formula. He is typically the hardheaded one in movies where he works with a loud outspoken actor, such as Mike Epps or Chris Tucker from the series of "Friday" movies. One memorable scene was when Hart pretended to be the drug lord of a gang in the city knowing that the gang never seen their boss. They just knew him by Omar. Hart's character walks in on a trade and says he’s Omar when one of the gang members questions him. Being a short man, he gets mad and shoots him in the leg. He then chides the gang member by asking how tall he was. When you talk about the story you have to appreciate how they came up with a unique one. With that said, it's hard to believe anyone with the mean face and attitude that Ice Cube brings could have been put into that role with the same moneymaking results. Then again no one has the resume or persona that Ice Cube possesses. "Ride Along" is easily, but arguably the best movie so far this year.
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sports
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
Mustangs trample Monterey by jermaine davis news@deltacollegian.net
The Delta College baseball season is now underway and from the look of things, it’s going to be an exciting one for the Mustangs. Since finishing third in Northern California last season, the Mustangs have been hard at work on the diamond. Head Coach Reed Peters enters his seventh season, with a team that has seen 70 players either move on to play at four-year schools or on professional baseball clubs. The team looks to improve on its record from a year ago by playing fundamentally sound baseball. “The depth of our pitching staff is valuable ... We have 12 pretty good pitchers,” said Peters. The Mustangs took the mound against Monterey Peninsula College in its second game of PHOTO BY JERMAINE DAVIS the season and dominated from the opening ON THE MOUND: Mustangs pitcher Matt Valencia on Jan. 31. pitch. Starting Pitcher sophomore Matt Valencia threw five scoreless innings, allowed two hits The big bang of the game came in the third inning and five strikeouts, which motivated the Mustang batters when sophomore First Baseman Wyatt Castro blasted a to put some runs on the board. solo home run over the fence in right field. The team did just that. “Honestly, the home run was indescribable ... It was Sophomore Infielder Conner Torres had a monster af- amazing, it’s the best feeling a baseball player could ever ternoon for the Mustangs with six RBIs, one stolen base have,” said Castro. and great defensive plays from his position at third base. Though conference play hasn’t started yet, the MusFellow sophomore Andrew Urbistondo also gave tangs are showing the competition how hungry the team an impressive performance with three hits, three runs is to eat its way into the post season this year. scored and three RBI’s, totaling nine RBI’s between the The Mustangs next game will be on Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. neighboring infielders. on campus at Nick Cecchetti Field.
Men’s basketball hold strong conference record by jermaine davis news@deltacollegian.net
Delta College men’s basketball, continues to improve its defense and ball handling skills as the team heads down the stretch of the regular season. The Mustangs are currently third in the Big 8 Conference with a record of 5-3 and have an overall record of 11-9. After ending last season with an Elite 8 appearance, the team is confident in its chances to reach that plateau once again. The Mustangs played against American River College on Jan. 28, executing a solid game plan to slow down ARC’s offensive attack. “We want to slow American River down as much as possible because they can push the ball PHOTO BY JERMAINE DAVIS up the court very quick,” said Head Coach Rich IN PLAY: Mustang Troy Anderson shots free throws on Jan. 28. Ressa. The Mustangs took control of the game early with raining three pointers, second chance points, reaching the free throw line and a powerful slam dunk by playing style of other teammates. “In the beginning we were having a rough time getsophomore Jarrel Green, which gave the Mustangs a comting acquainted with each other … We have a lot of players manding lead to end the first half 44-27. Delta continued to trample over ARC throughout the that have different roles but we’re getting back into the flow second half winning the team’s second game in a row, with again,” said sophomore Guard Alex Simmons. The team is galloping on a three-game winning streak the final score 69-52. “Our team was focused tonight. We paid attention to after defeating Sierra College in overtime 76-66 on Jan. 31. detail … Coach was right about the scouting report,” said Having players that can rotate, knowing where to be on the sophomore Nicolus Guzman, who led the team with 22 court at all times, is a key necessity for the Mustangs, which allows the team to stay fresh and energized. points. “This time of year most teams usually use an eight man With several new players on the team this season, there rotation but we’re doing just fine using 10,” said Ressa. have been difficulties with players getting familiar to the
Super Bowl blowout by sean mendoza news@deltacollegian.net
Super Bowl XLVIII was to be one of the most even match ups in the game’s history. The Feb. 2 game pitted the No. 1 ranked Denver Broncos offense against the No. 1 ranked Seattle Seahawks defense, putting teams leading in those areas on the same field in a bowl game since 2002. The weeks leading up to the big game were full of buildups such as the controversial postgame rant of Seattle star defensive back Richard Sherman after the Seahawks’ defeat of the San Francisco 49ers. Sherman was criticized by a high number of other NFL players and sports analysts for what he said during the postgame interview, claiming he’s the best at his position. The Broncos had an issue to take care of with the rumors going around that MVP quarterback Peyton Manning was going to call it quits after the Super Bowl, those rumors were shaken off eventually when Manning publicly stated he wants to play for as long as he can. The game’s intensity started off quickly when Denver lost a turnover that led to a safety which shifted the momentum Seattle’s way to begin the game. The Seahawks never looked back, putting the high-powered Broncos defense on check for the first quarter. After the safety, Seattle managed to kick two field goals. The first quarter ended with the Seahawks leading 8-0. During the second quarter Seattle’s Marshawn Lynch ran in a touchdown to put the Hawks up 15-0. When the Broncos offense seemed to get some rhythm going, Manning’s pass was intercepted by linebacker Malcolm Smith and returned for a touchdown. The play put the Seahawks on a commanding lead 22-0 going into halftime. The second half started off with a bang and wiped away any thoughts of a tale of two halves. Seahawks’ wide receiver Percy Harvin returned the kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown and the Seahawks hold on to a 29-0 score. Another drive had the Broncos looking like as if the team was ready to make a comeback. That stopped when receiver Demaryius Thomas fumbled and the Hawks recovered. Seattle scored when quarterback Russell Wilson threw a touchdown to Jermaine Kearse, put the team up 36-0. Denver managed to score one touchdown the rest of the game as the Seahawks dominated with a 43-8 final score. The team proved why its the No. 1 ranked defense in the NFL. Smith earned the Super Bowl’s Most Valuable Player trophy, quarterback Russell Wilson threw for 206 yards and two touchdowns and defensive back Sherman was carted off the field with an apparent ankle injury. The Super Bowl win marks the first in Seahawks franchise history.
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news
Issue 8 • Feb. 7, 2014 • deltacollegian.net
Delta English professor honored with Susan B. Anthony Award for work in creative arts by the collegian news@deltacollegian.net
PHOTO BY CHRIS HOWZE
CLEARING OLD FOR THE NEW: A worker clears out bookshelves and other objects from classrooms in the Cunningham Building. The beginning process of demolition is now in progress.
Delta College English Professor Paula Sheil is one of eight local woman being honored this year with the Susan B. Anthony Awards. Sheil will receive the award for her work in the creative arts. "The Susan B. Anthony Women of Achievement Awards to honor women who have excelled in their chosen category, and have, through their dedica-
tion, talent and untiring efforts, raised the status of humankind in San Joaquin County," according to the sponsoring organization. Sheil was nominated for the award for her body of work, which involves chairing the Marian Jacobs Literary Forum and founding Tuleburg Press. Sheil was also selected as a Distinguished Faculty Member by Delta College's Academic Senate for the 2012-13 school year.
CULINARY ARTS SELLS DELICIOUS TREATS
REMOVAL IN PREPARATION: Campus prepares for demolition of Cunningham
GET YOUR PASTRIES: Culinary Arts students sell pastries and coffee on Thursday, Jan. 30 in Lower Danner Hall. Goods are sold at reasonable prices to students, staff and faculty on Thursdays.
continued from PAGE 1 that will leave an open quad area with new grass, trees and pathways in its place. The phase three timeline begins in mid February. It is expected to take three to four months to remove asbestos, bulbs and hydraulic oils. During the removal Stockton Environmental, Inc., a local environmental consulting firm,
will oversee the demolition activities. The company will do daily monitoring surrounding air quality. The final teardown will be finished by the fall semester. The new pathway in it’s place will link the Science and Math Building to the DeRicco Student Center and to the rest of the campus.
PHOTO BY CHRIS HOWZE
Free jazz concert to be held in Atherton Auditorium on Saturday news@deltacollegian.net
Delta College is holding a free hour-long jazz concert at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 7. The concert is presented by the award-wining jazz REACH Metta Quintet and the University of the Pacific-based Brubreck Institute Jazz Quintet. The event will be held in the Atherton Auditorium. The concert is free and open to all families.
This concert is put on by the Delta Center for the Arts Concerts for Kids program and The Brubeck Institute. The concert will be an immersive and interactive musical experience that will promote musical education. Tickets can be reserved through the Delta College Box Office now through Feb. 7. There is a six ticket limit per person. For more information call (209) 954-5110.
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© 2014 National University 13818
by the collegian
The 39th annual Susan B. Anthony Awards banquet will held at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Stockton Golf and Country Club, 3800 W. Country Club Blvd. The award has previously honored mayors, business owners, arts activists, teachers and journalists. Reservations are $45. The deadline to make reservations is Feb. 8 for those wishing to attend. For more information, contact Bev Blum at (209) 4775970.
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Learn more at nu.edu/transfer
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