The Inquirer Vol V No. 5 by DVC Inquirer

A bounty of boughs

inquirer

Take a walk through the diverse forest of DVC. See Page 7. Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

Volume V, No 5

Fred Wood appointed new 4CD Chancellor ERIN SMITH Managing editor ALBERTO CHANG Staff member

A fantastical demonstration of horticultural technology is to debut on campus soon. In just a few years, Diablo Valley College will become home to its very own student-managed vertical farm; an agricultural triple threat that will serve as an organic food provider, a research facility, and a prestigious reason for attendance. The idea sprouted in early 2016 when two of the college’s student-run organizations—the horticulture club and the chemistry club—were contemplating possible collaborations. With innovation in mind, they asked a question that would kickstart an ambitious project: Why not go to where the future of agriculture is? Though by name they counter common sense, vertical farms are anything but unfeasible. And, as of late, we are seeing a progressive shift from traditional farms to them. In general, the same set of ingenious steps make them all work: Farmed fish consume intank algae, fish waste is then produced, nitrates from waste mix with the water, and nitrated water is utilized for outside-plant and in-tank algae fertilization. This

Graphic illustration by COOPER MEAD

Aquaponics is a closed loop irrigation system that uses fish to provide waste for microbes and worms to turn into nutrients for plants. cyclical system, called aquaponics, allows for crops to be readily grown in stacks instead of on horizontal plots of soil. And, depending on their designs, “farmscrapers” can reach heights of dozens of feet. The chief reason to get excited about them, says Chemistry Club Public Relations Officer, Chelsey

Froh, is their ability to revolutionize how we get our greens. If you want to give it a term, call it “urban farming.” Because vertical farms take up diminutive spaces, they can be practically built within any urban area of high-population density. Consequently, distances between consumers and their food sources

are radically curtailed, yielding two wonderful outcomes: Eating organic is made easier and environmentally unfriendly methods of cargo transportation are seriously reduced. One purpose of the campus’s forthcoming vertical farm will be Continued on Page 2

New details emerge surrounding board trustee death KAYLA ROBINSON Copy editor

John Nejedly, a Contra Costa Community College District trustee, was pronounced dead after he was found shirtless and unresponsive in his New Orleans, Hilton Riverside hotel room on Oct. 9. A security supervisor reported finding his body with blood and bodily fluids visibly running down his mouth and chin. The officers confiscated a clear plastic bag containing a gram of white powdery substance from the bathroom sink, $300 in cash, a woman’s bra and cell phone. The untimely death of John Nejedly remains “unclassified” according to the NOLA police department’s incident report. Jason Melancon, a Coroner’s Office spokesperson said,

“We won’t have a final cause of death for Mr. Nejedly until toxicology testing is completed.” There are many questions that still circulate this case that will not be further investigated until the coroner’s report is finalized, which could take up to “6-8 weeks” according to a NOLA public information officer. Mr. Nejedly, 52, was the longest serving board member with a total of 22 years on the Community College Board. Leading up to his death, Nejedly had attended an annual convention of the Association of Community College Trustees from Oct. 5-8 in New Orleans, LA. A memorial service was held for the former trustee on Oct. 27 in Livermore, CA. Courtesy of CONTRA COSTA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT

Contact KAYLA ROBINSON at KRobinson@DVCInquirer.com

On Nov. 4 in Martinez a special meeting was held to determine the newly appointed Chancellor of the Contra Costa Community College District, Dr. Fred Wood was appointed to the position. Having just served at Minnesota University of Crookston as a faculty member he left to take care of family in Northern California, he is now welcomed into the CCCCD. Most notably, Dr. Wood has come full circle as he began his college career right here at Diablo Valley College, “Community college was a big deal for me,” he said during an open forum at DVC. “My experience at DVC was life changing. The faculty and staff nurtured me and gave me the confidence I needed to succeed. They advised me not only about the next courses to take, but where might be the best place for me to transfer,” he continued in a response via email. “If DVC had not been here, I would have never gone to college,” he said. This statement holds a lot of bearing and rings true for a lot of students currently attending DVC. One of Wood’s most unique qualities is his attention to the students themselves. The position of Chancellor holds a lot of responsibilities, a lot of which deal with faculty and staff. But what about the 1,019,640 students it’s meant to help? Dr. Wood worked at UC Davis for 26 years and helped establish a cohesive relationship between the students and faculty. He focused on marginalized students. He helped build the new Student Community Center at the heart of the campus which now houses the LGBT Center along with a number of other critically important student centers. He’s also known for acknowledging non-traditional students such as online only students, and social injustice issues as he assisted with Cal Grants. “I would be here. Talking with you. Talking with faculty, talking with students,” Wood said in regards to what he would do as Chancellor. Continued on Page 2

news

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

calendar Friday, November 11 Gymnasium, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. DVC Women’s Volleyball vs San Joaquin Delta Tuesday, November 15 Academic Senate Council Community Conference Center, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 16 Performing Arts Center, 11:00 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Equity Speakers Series: Brian Copeland’s “The Waiting Period” Wednesday, November 30 Performing Arts Center, 8 p.m. Jazzin’ November Friday, December 2 Performing Arts Center, 8 p.m. Symphonic Band

police beat

DVC alum is new district leader Continued from Page 1 His attention to the students welfare is paramount as he wants to work with k-12 schools to get community college to be a first choice rather than an alternative and close the achievement gap. “I am a good listener and learner, which I think are essential for a new chancellor. It is about the students, and each employee of the District has a contribution to make. I need to learn from them, and listen to their ideas on how we can increase the success of our students,” he said in regards to student success. He’s also innovating as far as funding is concerned. State, local, and partnerships with surrounding businesses are a big part of his fundraising plan. “We have to recognize the state can’t be the only one reliable. We need to be innovative. We need to be thinking of the next step,” he said. This task is not an easy one, “You got to be on them and build those relationships,” he said in reference to dealing with the state. His concern with not neglecting students without advantages was prevalent throughout the forum, “For many students the staff make a strong connection. We need to be thoughtful with each other and build trust. If you don’t have trust. Game over,” he said. This place just doesn’t run off of the staff over all, it’s the students that make this a community and give us the ability to celebrate our uniqueness.

FRANK GUITRON/ The Inquirer

Fred Wood takes part in the chancellor debates in the Diablo Room at DVC, on Oct. 31. That being said, he stated that he doesn’t want the staff to feel invisible or overshadowed by faculty, “I think it’s important for advancement from within, he said.” Being able to progress while in their current position was a great concern from classified staff, and he wants the staff to feel they have advancement opportunities. Wood highlighted his availability and willingness to get involved to understand the core issues, both faculty and student related, “I’m

very accessible. To do this job you have to get out on the campuses,” he said. His enthusiasm continued, “Good leadership is serving leadership.” He believes a good leader serves their people, and is not above them, and that is an important quality in a Chancellor, especially when they believe, “The heart of what we do is from the inspiration from the Contact ERIN SMITH at ESmith@DVCInquirer.com

Farm project offers research chances

Monday, October 31 Lot 3 Student reported that her vehicle was damaged in the parking lot. There are no witnesses.

Lot 9 A non-student reported that their rental car was stolen while in the parking lot. No witnesses or suspects.

DVC Engineering Technology Classroom Student had money stolen from their wallet. No witnesses.

Life and Health Science Student had their bicycle stolen from the southern bike rack.

Continued from Page 1

even likely that “The project will act as a platform to conduct reto make it easier for students to search that can be published.” eat organic, genuinely unaltered In elaborating for Gilardy, Horfoods, all while knowing that that ticulture Club President, Peter many less greenhouse gasses were Swenson, adds that, because reemitted in the delivery process. search is a collaborative endeavor, And it is even possible that, as it could very often culminate in Chemistry Club President, Devin co-authored publishings between Virassammy, says, a consortium professors and students. The realwith the Culinary Arts Department ization of such a prospect would could be made. If such an associa- distinguish the college as a research tion was set up, Diablo Valley Col- institution and positively add to lege would be made nonpareil by its renowned reputation of being a its incorporation of home-grown, top transfer school. But right now, environmentally as with any“The project will act as a thing bound friendly produce into its cafeteria. for success, the platform to conduct The other enfocus is strongresearch.” visioned upshot ly on the nuts is the educationand bolts. “The ~Ryan Gilardy al potential. ultimate goal Chemistry club treasurer The farm will of this projbe built in the ect is to build Horticulture Department’s green- a functional, sustainable vertical house where, upon completion, it farm,” says Virassammy. And bewill serve as a research facility for cause the farm is totally studentstudents to engage in scientific ex- overseen, there is as much ongoploration. According to Chemistry ing, in-progress planning as there Club Treasurer, Ryan Gilardy, it is is excitement.

THE INQUIRER Diablo Valley College 321 Golf Club Road, ATC-103 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 The Inquirer is published Thursdays during the school year by the Diablo Valley College journalism students. Unsigned articles appearing on the opinions page are editorials and reflect a two-thirds majority opinion of the editorial staff. Signed columns and cartoons are the opinions of the writer or artist and not necessarily those of The Inquirer, Diablo Valley College or Contra Costa Community College District.

ALBERTO CHANG / The Inquirer

Devin Virassammy and Peter Swenson talk with interested students about DVC’s vertical farm proposal. Technicalities like how to implement an irrigation system, how to filter fish-killing chloramines from the water, and, adorably, what fish to farm, are all undergoing thoughtful consideration. So far, there have been a few consistently dedicating their time to the construction of the eco-friendly setting, including the club rep-

Contact ALBERTO CHANG at AChang@DVCInquirer.com

Staff

Editorial Board EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PRINT EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR NEWS EDITOR OPINIONS EDITOR COPY EDITORS

resentatives mentioned above. In their own words, however, “Any student attending DVC is allowed to join the Vertical Farm Project.” All it takes is some intellectual investment and a desire for a better world.

Marcel Scott Cooper Mead Erin Smith Chelsey Schallig Dominique Smith Jeannette Chiappone Frank Guitron Kayla Robinson

STAFF WRITERS Nina Cestaro, Mirna Aboukhali, Nagisa Tsukada, Will Nevin, Julia Muskevich, Nikki Moylan, Vielle Arcani-, Alberto Chang, Glenna Herbert INSTRUCTIONAL LAB COORDINATOR Julius Rea ADVISER Mary Mazzocco

• Phone: 925.969.2543 • Email: inquirer@dvc.edu • Website: www.dvcinquirer.com • Printed five times per semester •

News

Community leaders and Faculty discuss election

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

NIKKI MOYLAN Staff member

Professors of Diablo Valley College, alongside leaders of various community groups, came together to inform students about election issues, both local and national. Students in some of the presenters' classes came to gain more information in their political science studies. Only six percent of Americans see the media today as a positive influence on the election, and 69 percent of people report being stressed from what they hear on the news. The moderator was a DVC professor, Dr. Amer Araim, along with several of his colleagues. "This is a unique occasion to determine the future of our country," Araim said on the election. "We are meeting in the process to learn about it, so we must keep our opinions civilized today." Mickey Huff of Project Censored reported that one in five Americans have no confidence in the way the election is being handled. "There are key issues that should be presented to the public but the media is focusing on trivial things," said Huff. Project Censored also works to bring attention to news stories that would not normally be seen by the mainstream media. "You're likely going to have trouble gaining traction in

Professors Amir Araim and Mickey Huff discuss the election on Oct. 26. your interests if you don't support a freedom of press," Huff said. Dr. Jeremy Cloward spoke positively of Senator Bernie Sanders and claimed that he "was a good part of election news." "Our country hasn't seen someone like that since Eugene V. Debs," Cloward said. He also spoke about free education and the funds necessary for it, an over-funded military and the fact that the United States is a first-world country without universal healthcare, all problems that need to be addressed by the candidates. "They say that the poor fight the wars, and I definitely think that's true," said Cloward.

NIKKI MOYLAN/ The Inquirer

Students from DVC clubs also spoke to inform students about their organizations and their interest in helping the community. Representatives from clubs such as the DVC Model UN and the DVC Muslim Student association talked to their peers about what their clubs accomplish and how they inform members and others about the issues in the election. Ballot issues were discussed by Gwen Watson, co-chair of the Social Justice Alliance. "Make sure to cast your vote on Tuesday, November 8th and I wish you the best of luck in making your choices," Watson concluded. Contact NIKKI MOYLAN at NMoylan@DVCInquirer.com

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opinions

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

Hilary emails up for debate

he New York Police De- timely indictments against Clinpartment Special Victims ton, NYPD will go public with Bureau have gathered the damaging emails that are now enough new information to pres- in the hands of FBI Director James sure the FBI to open an investiga- Comey and many FBI field offices." tion which can only be described XM Radio host Alex Marlow as a plot coming straight from a suggests on his radio program that "House of Cards" episode. NYPD detectives who are in posWhile New session of these York Attorney copies might not Preet Bharara want their idenwas investigattity known for seing Anthony curity reasons. Weiner sexting If one docua 17-year old ment is found nude pictures, to have classified Bharara unState Department covered emails material within which opened Weiner's "life inan investigation surance" folder, into the Clinton someone who Foundation as does not have well as reopenclearance for clasWILL NEVIN ing a joint FBI sified material, is Staff member investigation evidence of gross on the Hillary negligence and Clinton private server investigation. breaks multiple federal laws. Attorney Bharara sent a warExecutive Order 13526 and Title rant for Weiner's devices in early 18 U.S. Code § 793 paragraph (f ) October which uncovered a folder both explain how sharing classified within his laptop labeled "Life in- documents outside of secure means surance," Bharara explained in a is unlawful and anyone convicted press statement sent to multiple can face ten years in prison. media outlets. Section 1236.22 of the 2009 A few things are clear; the FBI Federal Records Act states, "agenreopened Clinton's private email cies that allow employees to send server investigation after the NYPD and receive official electronic mail uncovered new evidence pertain- messages using a system not opering to Clinton, placing hundreds of ated by the agency must ensure that thousands of emails under federal Federal records sent or received on protection and jurisdiction. such systems are preserved in the NYPD detectives and a NYPD appropriate agency record keeping Chief, the department’s highest system." rank under Commissioner, said MSNBC's Lawrence O'Donnell anonymously that "if the FBI and has said that, "Hillary Clinton’s sysJustice Department fail to garner tem was designed to defy Freedom

of Information Act requests, which is designed to defy the law." On October 30th Bret Baier, a political anchor for Fox News, tweeted out, "two sources say Weiner is cooperating w/ FBI- & co-owned laptop. Also NY FBI had info for a few weeks - pressure was building." Baier stated on Nov. 3, "we’ve learned that her server had been hacked and a 99% accuracy that it had been hacked by at least five foreign intelligence agencies, and they believe things have been taken from that." Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security Michael McCaul said on “Fox and Friends” Nov. 3, that Clinton had several devices containing classified or sensitivie material. He said that some of the material contained covert operations information. McCaul went on to say that James Comey, director of the FBI, told Congress that foreign governments had access to Clinton’s server. “In my opinion, frankly, it's treason," McCaul said. In my opinion the only way Hillary escapes an indictment suggestion from the FBI is either through a pardon by Obama or Trump losing the election. Either way, history will be made on Nov. 8 - the first presidential candidate ever to have their charity organization be under a criminal FBI investigation during a presidential election.

Contact WILL NEVIN at WNevin@DVCInquirer.com

Illustration by WES LEY IHEZUE

Science in crisis: good to be skeptical

he veracity of scientific research is in full crisis right, there should be lots of blind alleys and endless barking potentially paradigm-blasting proposition. mode. up the wrong trees. You get to the lab and test out your baby. It's not that investigators with an inclination That's a good thing, right? And well....some of the results are betfor test tubes and statistics are fudging results to keep grant But shouldn't findings be replicated “Part of the problem is ter than the rest. funds flowing, although there are always a few of those in before they make their way into print It's like discovering your lover's flaws the isolation in which and somehow those quirks make them any group. and calcify in the conNo, it's that the prime tenant of sciensciousness of scientists scientists operate, lead- even more captivating. tific method is falling on its face. A high and the public? Perhaps if you just focus on the parts ing to a disquieting that work and just not worry too much number of studies are not being repliPart of the problem, cated. which "Nature" points lack of communication about the parts that really suck... Well, Let me be clear. out, is that there isn't a you get the picture. between them.” I am not one of those "science is a leftconsensus on what reYou publish a beautiful paper. wing conspiracy" people. producibility actually But it's just a tad delusional. Quite the contrary. means. Someone else runs your experiment Science is my religion of choice. How close to the original results must a and sees nothing but warts. I prefer my faith to be grounded in study be to be considered replicated? Alas, love is blind. what actually is versus beliefs in what can Close enough for horseshoes or prePart of the problem is that whether the study was sucnever be known or proved. cisely the same or no cigar? cessfully replicated or not, journal editors are loathe to print Besides, what actually IS never fails to Part of the problem is the isolation in retreads of old research. fill me with a sense of awe and wonder. which scientists operate, leading to a disAhem. "Nature?" Kinda like religion. quieting lack of communication between So the original work stands, whether or not it should. JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE Back to science in crisis. them. The solution to this crisis in science is to acknowledge the Copy editor Researchers just can't seem to replicate Even "Nature" recognized this. problem and the survey by "Nature" has certainly done that. other's studies with consistent success. For example, one guy fails to replicate Until the issues underlying the irreproducibility of reAnd it's not for lack of trying. another's research but doesn't drop him a line saying, "Hey, search are ironed out, perhaps it's best to take every study In a survey of 1,576 scientists conducted by "Nature" tried to come up with your recombinant DNA results but with a whopping dose of skepticism. magazine, one of the most-cited scientific research journals man, I got something completely different." Because it looks as though some of it really could dead in the world, "more than 70% of researchers have tried and Just a little hashing out of methodology might uncover wrong. failed to reproduce another scientist's experiments, and more where one or the other missed the mark. than half have failed to reproduce their own experiments." A retry, possibly a successful one, might ensue. "Nature" came up with some possible reasons why. Part of the problem is love. My interpretation of their findings are as follows: Yeah, scientists have feelings. Contact JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE at JChiappone@DVCInquirer.com Part of the problem is, if scientific method is being done You dream up this theorem, a really elegant little gem, a

opinions

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec 13, 2016

Editorial

Wi-fi on campus ready for an update

or the past few months, it seems like the Wi-Fi at Diablo Valley College is inconsistent at best. Even with the campus computers having a direct connection to the Internet, it is still subject to moments of latency due to the constant online traffic. The constant disconnection and inability to connect at times can make using the Internet challenging for both students and teachers. Teachers can potentially be interrupted while streaming videos that help students better understand their subject matter, in addition to other Internet-based teaching materials that could cripple their intended course lesson. Students, on the other hand, face the challenge of potentially not being able to use the internet that is paid for by their tuition. This could be even more upsetting to students that don’t receive financial aid and are paying out of their own pocket. What causes students to get kicked off the server randomly or not even be able to connect at all is the amount of bandwidth available to the students around campus. Faculty have their own Wi-Fi, but the issue with bandwidth is that if several people are tapping into it, the Megabits per second, or MBPS, has a finite amount that can be used at once. Picture several people trying to use the same water fountain at the same time. The water can only

spout out a certain amount of water based on that pressure. Surveying the campus, the Wi-Fi would disconnect and force the user to sign in again, have to wait for the loading screen, then get authenticated and wait a bit more for the authentication to process. When the connection was established, the signal would start off initially strong, but would over time lose its connection and at certain times force the user off, despite not moving around campus. Moreover, other members of the Inquirer staff noted that they couldn’t even get onto the Wi-Fi. The authentication screen wouldn’t even load, or would say that it had “timed out” with an error message. While this may seem like a minor issue, some students may not have Wi-Fi available to them except at DVC. This could leave students at the mercy of computer availability in the library and computer labs. However, things may be looking up, as IT manager Percy Roper commented, “we are aware of some inconsistencies and work to get the issue resolved.” ~Fall 2016 Editorial board

Letters to the editor

DVC lacks diverse input Managing GPA is stressful

s a student at- white students being able to campus with programs and tending Diablo communicate with a profes- groups such as Umoja and Valley College, I sor more than other ethnici- Puente. see many people on cam- ties. But the problem is, these pus with different ethprograms do not help al“I believe that DVC leviate racial bias as they nic backgrounds in my classes. But the experi- does demonstrate bias set a divide of ethnicity ence that I have had at on the campus. DVC does not speak for based on race, and ethAccording to a study all DVC students. nicity when in a class done at Missouri State I believe that DVC University, creating setting.” does demonstrate bias training programs, based on race, and ethevents, support opportunicity when in a class setnities, diverse recruiting, ting. Based on research from According to the Univer- and diversity scholarships all DVC and other colleges, sity of Rhode Island, minor- construct a campus that is white students communi- ity students worry about devoid from any discriminacate more with their profes- how they will be perceived. tion. sors in class than AfricanAs a result, this makes DVC should implement American students. the professor believe that these types of methods to The results of the School minority students are less eradicate the racial bias Climate Questionnaire capable of learning than the and discrimination in classdone at DVC showed that white students who speak rooms. 45.2% white students speak without fear. the most in the class. DVC has shown some This suggests that there is support to help minorities ~ Mabaljit Panesar a racial bias in the class with feel more comfortable on DVC Student

oday this generation of school- 85 percent describe daily stress in college ing has been known as one of the in 2009, a five percent uptick from the 80 most stressful environments for percent reported in 2008,” stated in “A Stustudents to be in. dent's Guide To Balancing Stress” by Ryan All the classes, the reading, the writing, Gleason in July 28, 2016. the studying , and homeStudents get so worked “This also prepares work. up for the grades they get It becomes very importheir classes that they students in their career in tant for students to have aren’t actually trying to choice for after col- learn the material, inhigh GPAs. This also prepares it's more important lege, since college is the stead students in their career on passing the test. building block for a choice for after college, Having a high GPA since college is the buildwithout understanding good job and career.” the actual material won't ing block for a good job and career. help the students in their In today's world, a college education is a careers. must if you want to get a decent job or start Schools need to push more for the stua career. dents to understand the information being The process of college and performing to taught instead of what the grade is at the end such a high level is so stressful for college of the semester. students. The students will realize that they don't It all comes down to competing for the know how to do anything at the job because grades, which will then lead to a career field. they were always too focused on the grade. “...57 percent of students fear they won’t find a job after graduating. ~ Mikaela Walsh “When it comes to overall stress levels, DVC Student

The

Buzz

What kind of music do you listen to when you’re studying and why? Interviewed by: Melanie Calimlim Photographed by: Erin Smith

Matisse Williams, 19, business administration

Wesley Tan, 19, computer science

Stephanie Langner, 26, English

Quinn Thornton, 21, art history

“Hip-hop, rap and R&B, and I might throw in old school slow jams.”

“Pop, I just listen to random songs on Pandora..”

“I don’t listen to music at all, it’s distracting.”

“I generally listen to math rock because it isn’t as lyrical.”

Opinions

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

Take classes that interest you even if they are not major specific.

MIRNA ABOUKHALIL/ The Inquirer

A guide to finding a major you’re stoked on

hat do you want to be when you grow up? But while I was listening to an Alan Watts lecture he asked This is a question that we the most interesting question, “What have been asked over and would you like to do if money was not over again since we were younger. an object.” But here we are in college, and what I went ahead and took this to our seemed so far in the future is right in front DVC students to asked that same quesof our faces. tion to see if they are pursuing what they We gain this stress in which we need to have passions in. pick something to do for the rest of our The first person that I approached was lives but we also have to enjoy it. named, Jerome Roant, he is a kinesiolOnce wanting to be painters, actors, ogy major, but if money was no object he and dancers, now want to be nurses, engiwould be a dancer. neers, and run businesses. Another girl, Kayla Broussard, that Making me ask, what made us detour I had approached is currently studying from our original dreams? clinical health sciences and quickly anMIRNA ABOUKHALIL Then I realized it was MONEY. swered that she'd be a makeup artist. Staff member People believe they can't make a living I asked about a dozen more people and off of there original dreams and talents so none of them were doing what they truly they just forget about them. wanted to do, but instead ignoring it.

That is the problem, if you have a passion for anything then you should embrace it. I am not trying to say drop your major, but instead build on your passion and never loose sight of it because if you do then life will end up being a dull journey. It might be hard because some of us are so focused on getting out of DVC, but take classes that interest you even if they are not major specific. Expand on your interests because if you become the best at any of your passions I guarantee that you will be able to use it as either a side career or a full career. So I challenge you to go and pick one class in the DVC catalog for the upcoming spring semester, that will allow you to embrace your passions and interests and choose what you REALLY want to be when you grew up.

Contact MIRNA ABOUKHALIL At MAboukhalil@DVCInquirer.com

Beautiful people are treated better than others

ife is better if you’re beautiful. ter than unattractive people. Sadly, it’s not a “finding-your-inner-chakras” Yet it happens every day, and we don’t do anything about spiritual kind of beauty that makes life a breeze. it. It’s being physically attractive that can significantly aid in This idea seems contrary to popular thought, but Cathyour success in a number of ways. erine Hakim, a professor of sociology at the London School A number of scientists and psycholoof Economics, suggests that professional gists have proved that being physically atwomen can and should use their beautractive comes with countless advantages. ty, sex appeal, charm, and fitness to get These advantages can range from having ahead in work. an easier time finding a job, getting paid Personally, it’s unbearably unnerving more, all the way to making more friends to think that my physical attractiveness and climbing higher on the social ladder. could literally shape my success in life. According to an article published by However, some women do use their sex "Psychology Today," Dr. Gordon Patzer, appeal to get where they want. researcher and writer studying the power It appears unfair that attractive women and perplexity of physical attractiveness have a paramount advantage and can use said, “Good-looking men and women are it to manipulate people to get what they generally regarded to be more talented, want. But in a competitive business enkind, honest and intelligent than their less vironment, corruption and manipulation attractive counterparts.” are not foreign in the corporate world. GLENNA HERBERT Humans are hardwired to respond If attractiveness really is a vital conStaff member more favorably to attractiveness. tributor to success, what happens if you Dr. Patzer has conducted controlled aren’t attractive? studies which have shown that people are more willing to Daniel Hamermesh, author of, "Beauty Pays: Why Atgo out of their way to help attractive people, mainly because tractive People Are More Successful," argues that unattractthey want to be accepted by other good looking people. ive individuals are at a social “disadvantage,” in the same way Ethically speaking, this would be a gross violation of hu- of those who are physically disabled or lacking intelligence. man rights if attractive people were treated significantly betBeauty has always been said to be in the eye of the be-

holder, and although it is a beloved, long-standing belief, it is quite far from the truth. Most people actually see beauty in the same way: symmetry of facial features. This way of viewing beauty isn’t a conscious choice. As humans, our brains are more attracted to symmetry and view a symmetrical face as more pleasing than one that is asymmetrical. More often than not, the world rewards beauty. I have personally seen this in action when I was pulled over for speeding and managed to talk my way out of getting a ticket. An extensive study conducted by Northwestern University on the correlation between attractiveness and cosmetics found that attractive people are perceived as more likable and trustworthy than their unattractive counterparts. I now wonder, if the officer thought I was unattractive, would I have gotten a ticket? In no way is being able to evade the law because of looks ethical. Yet physical attractiveness has so much power in our culture. I think that culturally, our obsession with attractiveness is perpetuated by our biased media coverage of “beautiful” people which is a hilariously poor representation of our population.

Contact GLENNA HERBERT at GHerbert@DVCInquirer.com

features

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

Trees N Of DVC

Major carbon stores essential for local ecology

Story by: Jeannette Chiappone Photos by: Alberto Chang

ext time you're heading to class, look around. Chances are you're walking near the gentle canopy of one of the 600 trees on campus. Each and every tree in high-traffic areas of Diablo Valley College has been inventoried and marked by species, location, health, and structural integrity. Each one plays an important role in an enormous natural ecology that extends well into the surrounding community."Trees are hubs for a myriad of life forms," said Torrey Young, an arborist hired by DVC to conduct the inventory. "The trunks of trees and their branches provide habitat for birds and mammals while buffering winds and rainfall. Their leaves and fruits feed other creatures while providing building supplies for the homes of others. Through endless symbiotic relationships they provide a framework for support and nutrition for other plant life." Even the manner in which trees decay is part of an intricate interconnection of life, Young says. "Their falling leaves and twigs protect the soil surface and reduce erosion while sheltering a myriad of organisms. They interact in the soil with fungi and insects and they contribute to soil development in the decay of their shed parts." The campus tree survey was conducted when safety concerns became a critical issue, John Nahlen, DVC vice president of business and administrative services says. In 2014, "we had a couple of pretty heavy rains and lost two or three trees that fell over. We lost one really nice, large tree over by the library, one by the old counseling center. Then we lost at least one, maybe two, by the music building." Young and his company, Dryad, which is the name

of a mythical forest nymph, inventoried 260 individual trees in DVC's high-traffic areas. Sadly, a number of them needed to be removed because their structural integrity was compromised and they posed a safety risk. Still, 600-700 healthy trees remain on DVC's campus, Young says. Nahlen says the last few years of drought have not impacted DVC vegetation because "our landscaping is on recycled water." But issues with the irrigation system are a challenge. "A number of our irrigation control boxes have copper wire in them. We've had vandals that break in and steal the wire. Some of our irrigation systems are old, hard to maintain. We're trying to work some projects in to replace them." So far, the trees have withstood the spotty irrigation. Young says, "In the absence of human management, many species thrive for hundreds and even thousands of years. Trees are extremely responsive to conditions and develop in a manner most conducive to thriving in a given environment." Each tree on campus can potentially take in 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, according to the Arbor Environmental Alliance, and an acre of forest can sequester as much as 100 metric tons of carbon dioxide over time. And of course, green vegetation on land and in the oceans makes 95 percent of all the oxygen on Earth. Breathe that in. Look around next time you're heading to class. Gaze up and just notice the 600 magnificent trees quietly sustaining life and providing beauty around you as you go on your way. Contact JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE At JChiappone@DVCInquirer.com

Several of the 46 species of trees on campus

features

‘Team Lab’ brings 3D art to the bay

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

CHELSEY SCHALLIG News Editor

The renowned Japanese art collective, teamLab, is recognized for challenging and expanding the digital art makCHELSEY SCHALLIG / The Inquirer ing practice. Pace Art + Technology presents Living Digital Nora Nimir snaps a photo of the Crystal Universe at Pace Gallery. Space and Future Parks in Menlo Park. The large-scale installation invites participants of all ages other works including “Flowers and People, Cannot be The interactions cause a change in the artwork and previto immerse visually in the morphing beauty of the 20 digital Controlled but Live Together- a Whole Year Per Hour” will ous visual states can never be replicated because what you see works. Participants are encouraged to partake in the digital be shown in North America for the first time. will never be repeated again in the future. playground and to explore the intellectual concepts of these “Light Sculpture of Flames” accumulated light points to Toshiyuki Inoko from teamLab says, “We are honored to technologists at work. create a sculptural body. “Black Waves in Infinity” creates share some of our most recently created artworks and hope The viewer becomes a part of the artwork a movement of water that the universality of their themes creatively, play, exploration, itself. is simulated in a computer- immersion, life, and fluidity will seep into the broader con“The teamLab exhibition is a momentous three-dimensional science. “The teamLab exhibition is generated one for Pace’s newly formed Art + Technolspace. We are particularly excited to debut several of these works ogy program. The water is expressed as in Silicon Valley, one of the indisputable heartlands for ina momentous one for Pace’s The content and ambitious scale of the a continuous body after cal- novation, bold thinking, and risk-taking.” show, and teamLab’s practice is emblematic newly formed Art + Technol- culating the interactions of Pace Art + Technology presents Living Digital Space and of Pace’s longstanding commitment to experhundreds of thousands of Future Parks is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11a.m ogy program,” imentation and the growing nexus between particles. to 7 p.m. and located at 300 El Camino Real, Menlo Park art and technology,” wrote Marc Glimcher, The interaction of viewers CA 94025. ~Marc Glimcher who runs the influential Pace Gallery. with “Flowers and People, Manager of Pace Gallery TeamLab believes that digital art can creCannot be Controlled but ate new relationships between people. These Live Together — a Whole interactive works are powerful and several of the works in Year Per Hour” causes the flowers to shed their petals all at Contact CHELSEY SCHALLIG the show including “Light Sculpture of Flames and Black once or to come life and blossom again. The work is at CSchallig@DVCInquirer.com Waves in Infinity” will enjoy their international debut while rendered in real-time by a computer program.

‘Saint Pablo’ converts Oracle crowd DOMINIQUE SMITH Opinions editor

A person doesn’t have to be a fan of Kanye West to enjoy this show, but you may leave feeling like one of his followers. The arena was dimly lit as a heavy fog hung among the crowd as Kanye West began to perform on a floating stage above a crowd of roaring fans. He doesn’t want to be seen as he symbolically makes it clear, he’s on a different level of greatness than everyone else in the arena. During “The Saint Pablo Tour,” West can be perceived as a “spiritual” overseer. It feels as if he’s preaching to the masses, rather than rapping to the crowd. While simultaneously motivating and energizing the crowd, he fuels the audience with prosperity, faith, hope and an unadulterated understanding of life. As West recited his lyrics, from

his earlier works to most recent songs, it seems as though he’s transferring his “holiness” to those who recite along with him, cleansing everyone of their doubts with creativity. It’s sounds strange - and kind of cult-ish - but that’s because it was. You won’t understand until you go to the show. “The Saint Pablo Tour,” experience resembled Sunday morning church. Through his music and influence, he was able to congregate everyone at the show. It was obvious by the looks on all of the people’s faces, that during his two long hour set, they were being fed long-lasting energy by him. Through music, he was encouraging them to persevere through their hardships and become great. This is both good and bad because, “No one man should have all that power.”, As Kanye himself has put it in his song “Power.”

This is ironic because in this particular song he insinuates that nobody should hold so great a power than anyone else. Yet in life, and at his shows, it is clear that he knows he holds more power than the average person. And he alone chooses how and when he shares it. For many, music is their form of religion, Kanye’s fans look up to him as a leader; he is a creative genius. And for those who attend “The Saint Pablo Tour,” they may agree as well that Kanye is a pastor. The Northern California tour dates are: Nov. 17 at SAP Center in San Jose and Nov. 19 and Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. Tickets are still available on Ticketmaster and start at $26. DOMINIQUE SMITH/ The Inquirer Contact DOMINIQUE SMITH at DSmith@DVCInquirer.com

Kanye West brings “The Saint Pablo Tour” to the Oracle Arena in Oakland. The people standing in general admission will enjoy the show directly below the floating stage.

sports

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13 2016

VIELLE ARCANI/ The Inquirer

DVC’s Ale Gonzalez playing against Modesto Junior College at home on Oct. 25.

Two wins for Vikings soccer VIELLE ARCANI Staff member

against the Panthers. Cameron Chan scored in the 3rd minute of the game, Karla Ramos scored in the 8th minute of the game and Noelle Lemos scored in the 18th minute of Diablo Valley College soccer team won two home games the game. this week. They defeated Sacramento City Although the team is working on scorCollege 4-0 Oct. 28 and beat Modesto Juing earlier in the game and more often, it “After the 90th min- is always exciting to get last minute goals. nior College 1-0 on Oct.25. The Panthers went to face DVC on a ute 1-0 win Oct. 18 Megan Melara scored in the 90th minute 12 game losing streak. Their last win was of the game and DVC walked away with against Cosumnes Sept. 6 against De Anza College. a 4-0 win. After a 90th minute 1-0 win Oct.18 “We worked really hard,” freshman River college.” against Cosumnes River college, coach Megan Melara said. Cailin Mullins emphasized the need to Earlier in the week DVC beat Modesto score earlier in games. Junior College 1-0. DVC scored three times in the first half of the game The team was excited for a win, but they are always look-

Vikings lacrosse finds their mojo

ing to improve and get better. “We’ve got to put away more goals” Mullins said. The Vikings scored zero or one point in a third of the games they’ve played so far. “We definitely need to get those goals in the net,” goalkeeper Katie McLaughlin said. DVC accomplished what they set out to do against Sacramento City College on Oct. 28 scoring four times, but still would have liked to get more goals in the net, according to Mullins. The Vikings are first in their conference with a 13-1-4 overall record. Contact VIELLE ARCANI at VArcani@DVCInquirer.com

throughout the third and fourth quarters. The Vikings beat UC Santa Cruz 16-8. “We found our mojo. Every The Vikings beat UC Santa night we just try to get better and Cruz and St. Mary’s College over we try to translate that into the the weekend. games. We’re starting to get guys DVC went head to head with to show up consistently and play St. Mary’s College in Moraga on how we want them to play - it’s Nov. 6. translating onto the field,” head The Vikings got an early lead and were ahead 6-1 at the end coach Andrew Welch said. After losing their first four of the first quarter. They scored games of the season, the Vikings 6 times in each of the next two are starting to turn things around. quarters and were leading 18-6 at They have a the end of the good chance third. “They deserve it.” of finishing DVC beat this season St. Mary’s ~DAVIS LEHMAN strong if they College Gaels DVC assistant lacrosse coach keep up the 20-7 and now momentum have a two they’ve built game winthese last two games. ning streak. “For us (the coaches) it’s good The night before they beat St. to see the guys happy and in good Mary’s College, DVC defeated spirits,” assistant coach Davis UC Santa Cruz at home. This Lehman said. “We want them was only DVC’s second win of to rise above, to have them come the season, their first was on Oct. home with a win. They deserve 22 against CSU Chico. it. They’ve been working very, DVC got off to a fast start. very hard showing up to practice, They lead 5-1 at the end of the playing in the rain and playing in first quarter and 9-4 at halftime. the mud.” The Vikings had just as much energy in the second half of the Contact VIELLE ARCANI game as they did the first. DVC at VArcani@DVCInquirer.com continued to score consistently VIELLE ARCANI Staff member

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9/28/16 1:11 PM

sports

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

DVC’s football game against CCC Comets on Nov. 4.

VIELLE ARCANI/ The Inquirer

Vikings crash against Comets KAYLA ROBINSON Staff member

There was high energy this Friday night as the Diablo Valley College Vikings football team lost a battle against Contra Costa College. Fans gathered in the 64 degree weather on both sides adding to the hype, yelling out and cheering on the players. The night began with both teams eagerly seeking to get the first lead. In the first quarter Vikings' sophomore defensive back, Yamvo Teague, was injured and out for the remainder of the game, and Comets' sophomore cornerback, Arthur Hayes was disqualified from the game for illegal helmet contact. Closing out the first quarter, the Vi-

kings took a seven point lead. Tension rose on the field as both teams obtained a few penalty flags for false starts. While Vikings starting quarterback Jadon Brisendine is still out with an injury, the backup quarterback, Gary Chapeta sought to hold the team together offensively. "I gave it my all, I tried my ass off, I love this team and I never abandoned this team," Chapeta said. "We fought! We did well, we couldn't pull it all together in the end but we fought hard." For the majority of quarter two, the Vikings and the Comets were tied 7-7 until the Comets took the lead ending the quarter 20-7.

As the temperature dropped, the spirit of the fans from both teams remained high through the end of the game. "We made a lot of mistakes, some that we will fix in practice, but we showed a lot of heart in the end trying to come back. It was just a tough loss," said freshman running back Miles Harrison. In the end, the players took a knee as the clock ran down, with a final score of 20-28, a tough loss for the Vikings. "We gave it our all, we left it out on the field, that's what we try to do every game. We just need to play how we know we can play," said sophomore wide receiver Marquese Surrell. Contact KAYLA ROBINSON at KRobinson@DVCInquirer.com

Star player rises to expectations VIELLE ARCANI Staff member

Miles Harrision is an ambitious running back playing his first season with Diablo Valley College’s football team and has ran for 388 yards, 271 kick return yards and scored two touchdowns this fall. Football runs in Harrision's family and he has been exposed to the game since a young age. His dad played football and he is following in his footsteps. Harrision has a love for the game and thinks about football every day and is committed to being the best he can be. He practices at least four days a week and stays on top of his health and fitness partially by “putting the right stuff in my body.” He says his hands are a strength of his that sets him apart from other running backs. He has 16 receptions for 187 yards this season. One of the things he wants to improve on is to “get faster.” During the game, when he isn’t playing, you can find Harrision on the sidelines watching the game with a smile on his face while talking to his teammates. “I try my hardest to support my teammates,” Harrision said. Win or lose Harrision will “keep a smile on my face” and “stay positive.” One thing that stands out about Harrision is his ability to keep his composure in the toughest situations such as playing

VIELLE ARCANI/ The Inquirer

Miles Harrision is one of the standout players on the football team. catch up and battling the clock at the end of the fourth quarter like he did at home against San Francisco on Oct. 14. DVC was down 49-0 with no way to win, but Harrision still gave it his all and scored the only touchdown of the night with 1:14 left on the clock. Harrision is an asset to his team and they support him as much as he supports them. “I love miles,” quarter back Gary Chapeta said. “Great running back.” Harrision has many positive things to say about his teammates and the same

can be said about him. “I love Miles Harrision ,” running back Desmond Nisby said. “We are like thunder and lighting. Great player.” The end of the football season is near, but you can expect to see Harrision in the future. A goal of his is to transfer to a university and continue to play there. “I’m already thinking about next year,” Harrision said. Contact VIELLE ARCANI at VArcani@DVCInquirer.com

Bay Area sports this week, and some insight on games to come The bad news for 49er fans is their team won't be making any playoff push this year; no historic turn around, nothing of the sort. The 49ers are a mess that need to fix their problems in the off season. In a post game interview, after a loss against the Saints, Colin Kaepernick said, "There were a few different plays here and there, it’s a different ballgame." It's hard to be positive when your team has lost seven in a row. The last 49er win was back in mid September. Since then the 49ers have set a new NFL record for allowing 100 or more rushing yards a game. The record is now at seven games and this 49ers defense is now historically bad. In a mix of emotions the San Jose Sharks started off their season hot and in the month of October the Sharks were 6-3, but have since fallen into a November slump by losing their last three games. In the last Stanley Cup rematch the Sharks were blanked by the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-0. The San Jose Sharks have yet to find an answer for the speed the Pens bring to the game. There's still a lot of season left. Especially for GEOFFREY WESEMAN the Warriors Staff member who are currently second in the Pacific Division. This Warriors team is different than years past and on paper they should be killing every team they play, but too many scorers and not enough big men to hit the boards may hurt the Warriors in the long run. Another problem the Warriors face is being a one dimensional team. Stephen Curry definitely faces this problem because the three-point shot won't always work and that was seen against the Los Angeles Lakers. When talking of Curry's performance, former NBA basketball player Bruce Bowen said, "I understand that's part of his game, but you need to go to the basket when things aren't working for you." The Warriors still remain a top team in the NBA, but need to find more to work with as they prove they are beatable. Right now I don't think the Raiders think they can be beat. The Raiders have won their last three games including the big win against the Denver Broncos. The Raiders have proved they are the real deal with this win. After the game ESPN NFL Analyst Ryan Clark said, "They found ways to score points, but also, they did very well defensively stopping the Denver Broncos from being able to run the ball." Wrapping up the 2016 sports year will be an exciting one for all Bay Area sports fans, unless you bleed red and gold.

Contact GEOFFREY WESEMAN at GWeseman@DVCInquirer.com

sports

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2016

Winter sports recap VIELLE ARCANI Staff member

The end of the season is near for many of Diablo Valley College's sports teams while others still have many games ahead of them. VIELLE ARCANI / The Inquirer DVC women’s soccer team tied twice this week. A home game against San Joa- Cheerleaders from Team Pink cheer for DVC Vikings on sidelines of football game on Nove. 4. quin Delta on Nov. 1 resulted in a 1-1 tie. 1-1 was also the final score at an away Nov. 3 and Nov. 4. a 4-1 record then hit a slump and have lost and broke their four game winning streak game against Sierra College on Nov. 4. DVC won their first game 64-54 vs. Cothree of their last four games. on Nov. 4 against American River in the Big Vanessa Ruvalcaba and Noelle Lemos both lumbia and lost their second game 65-53 vs. DVC is now 5-4 overall and 1-3 in their 8 Conference Tournament. scored for DVC this week. Butte. They will play the Shasta Tournament conference. Their final game of the season DVC's lacrosse team beat UC Santa Cruz Their last regular season home game will next on Nov. 18 at 2 p.m. in Redding, CA. will be at College of San Mateo on Nov. 12 16-8 at home on Nov. 5. This was only be Nov. 8 at 3 p.m. against American River. at 1 p.m. DVC's second win this fall. Their first home playoff game will be on The men's water polo team won two of They have lost five of the eight games “The Vikings started off the Nov. 19. their three games this week. they've played this season. The Vikings volleyball team lost 3-0 at season with a 4-1 record They beat Santa Rosa 18-6 in the Big 8 The team worked well vs UC Santa Cruz home against Modesto Junior College on Conference Tournament and Sierra 10-6 in and built up a lot of momentum. then hit a slump and have Nov. 2. the Big 8 Conference Tournament SemiIf they continue to look as good as they DVC is now on a three game losing streak lost rthree of their last four Final on Nov. 3. did in their last game they can have a promand sixth in the Big 8 conference with a 5-8 They lost 13-11 against San Joaquin Delising end to their season. games.” conference record and a 9-11 overall record. ta in the Big 8 Conference Tournament Their next home game is on Nov. 10 at Their last home game of the season will be Championship Game on Nov. 5. 7:30 p.m. against San Jose State University. on Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m. against San Joaquin DVC’s football team lost their last home Their next match is against Santa Rosa in Delta. The men’s basketball team played twice game of the season 28-20 on Nov. 4 against the NorCal Regional Tournament on Nov. 11 at 3:40 p.m. at Las Posits College. Contact VIELLE ARCANI at this week in the Las Positas Tournament on Contra Costa College at home. VArcani@DVCInquirer.com The Vikings started off the season with The women's water polo team lost 9-6 Advertisement

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sports

Thursday, Nov. 10 - Wednesday, Dec. 13 2016

Football flops as season comes to an end

Photos by VIELLE ARCANI/ The Inquirer

Above: Gary Chapeta hands off the ball to running back Desmond Nisby.

Clockwise from the left: Prominence Akubuo-Onwuemeka points out to his teamates. Quarterback Gary Chapeta sets up a pass during the game on Nov. 4 against Contra Costa College. Desmond Nisby and teammate celebrate a touchdown in the endzone.