The Inquirer Vol V No. 2 by DVC Inquirer

soccer team reigns supreme

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Vikings continue their undefeated run. See Page 8. Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

Volume V, No 2

Big changes in the bay ecosystem JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE Staff member

Sunlight glittered on the Bay as Berkeley resident, Lyrinda Snyderman, and her friends paddled their kayaks to Angel Island on a calm, clear July morning. The breeze was light and salty. Circling seabirds shrieked and dove above the tideline near Treasure Island. Snyderman noticed odd, dark triangles bobbing for a moment beneath the whirling birds, then vanishing from sight. Tug boats, she thought. Then one of her friends yelled, “I think I see whales.” Snyderman quickly flipped her camera to zoom. For the next 50 minutes, she and her friends had a front row seat to the remarkable spectacle of humpback whales lungefeeding in the San Francisco Bay. The unprecedented appearance of healthy humpbacks feeding in the Bay is a sign of complex shifts in climate and ocean ecology, marine biologist believe. Changes in atmospheric conditions and water temperature, along with water quality, ultimately effect where sea life lives and thrives. “We tend to focus on the megafauna be-

cause we can see them, but it’s important to focus on the little things, too,” says Dr. Jonathan Stern, a marine biologist with San Francisco State University. “There have been these huge schools of anchovies right off shore...and as the tides move in and out of San Francisco Bay, so do the anchovies.” The humpbacks, in turn, follow their favorite food into the Bay. Up until this year, Stern says, there were “plenty of food resources for them further offshore, out towards the Farallon Islands.” Dr. Ellen Hines, associate director of The Romberg Tiburon Research Center, says colder, oxygen and nutrient-rich waters from deeper in the ocean is where the food chains thrive. In a process called upwelling, the deeper, colder waters rise as Northerly winds along the California coast move warmer surface water away from the shore, she says. “More food chains are enabled because in this colder upwelling of water... there’s more life.” Hines adds, “The upwelling used to be relatively seasonal and predictive.” However, a persistent ridge of high pressure parked over the North Pacific and North America several years ago. This high

Courtesy of LYRINDA SNYDERMAN

Three whales breach while feeding on schools of krill in the San Francisco Bay, indicating a resurgence of local marine life. pressure ridge is thought to have contributed to the rise of a large mass of warmer than normal surface ocean temperature. “The theory is that the upwelling is closer and closer to shore, restricted by this higher

ocean temperature. So what is happening is that these animals are coming closer and closer to shore in search of food in the coldContinued on Page 3

College Now gives highschoolers a headstart Left to right: Meranda Broder, Rosa Amendariz, Mandy Ganz, Stephanie Alves, Taylor Harrison.

CHELSEY SCHALLIG News editor

Mt. Diablo Unified School District high school students have the opportunity to earn college credits when enrolled in the College Now program offered at Diablo Valley College. MDUSD leaders went to DVC to start a dual enrollment program after California approved the Assembly Bill 288-College and Career Access Pathways in 2015. It allows Contra Costa Community College District to form partnership agreements with local school districts to give access to concurrent enrollment opportunities for high school students. “College Now gives students the opportunity to achieve high school and college academic success which gives them the chance to explore and pursue career aspirations,” says Rosa Armendáriz, DVC Interim Dean of Student Engagement. The College Now program started fall 2016 for eleventh-grade students and will become available to both twelfth and eleventhgrade students for the 2017-18 school year. This program gives high school students the chance to

CHELSEY SCHALLIG / The Inquirer

prepare themselves for future college experiences in an academically-challenging environment. College Now has a diverse background of students whose needs are not being met by the comprehensive high school.

“The main focus of this program is to encourage success academically,” says Mandy Ganz, MDUSD Counselor. The first part of their day consists of English, U.S history and advisory taught by MDUSD teachers

and additional DVC courses with other community college students. Counseling 120 is a requirement for those who are enrolled which is taught by Taylor Harrison, DVC Counselor.

“High School students have access to college-level coursework and the chance to provide them with opportunities to engage in a college-level course,” says Armendariz. Students who want to apply must show a high level of motivation and maturity, and be ready for an academic experience. Applicants must have a history of satisfactory attendance and behavior to qualify for the new program. There is a total of 30 students who were accepted for the fall 2016 program. “DVC gains from this program because it adds to the diversity and experience on campus. Those enrolled in regular DVC courses contribute to and learn from the college environment,” says Armendariz. Contact CHELSEY SCHALLIG at CSchallig@DVCInquirer.com

news

Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

Round 1 opens up in Sunvalley NIKKI MOYLAN Staff member

Round 1, an arcade-type entertainment chain that is expanding into new locations has recently opened in Sunvalley Mall. The Japanese company now has six locations in California and is sure to attract large crowds in tandem with the opening of the mall's new food court. The entertainment center is the first location in the East Bay, with 52,000 square feet of activities for any age, ranging from pool, ping pong, and even a bowling alley. It is a family friendly spot, and is very busy on the weekends, with loud and blaring music and colorful lights creating an exciting atmosphere similar to the games section at a carnival. "We're covering a lot of demographics here," said manager Joe Snyder. "Weekends are flooded with people here, but weekdays are not so bad." Round 1 also features a bar, and serves "pub-grub" like burgers and wings. Visitors can also enjoy several arcade games, and there is a large selection dedicated to games originally only featured in Japan. Snyder considers the games to be the "money-maker," as fighting and music games, along with the Japanese style cranes are popular with visitors. One of the unique features of these games is that players are able to save their progress on a card so they can keep

coming back to play. This whole new level of gaming also features 10 different games on one machine, thanks to a new system and servers from Japan. Gamers win tickets that can be used in the prize store, where prizes range from small toys to electronics. Another popular attraction at Round 1 are the Japanese photo booths, where people can decorate their photos with stamps and decorations. Diablo Valley College students Devin Livasco and Jovan Tjahyadikarth, both 19, had been to Sunvalley Mall several times and noticed the construction going on. Once Round 1 opened, they visited two days in a row, experiencing the arcade, bowling alley, and playing ping pong. Both have recommended the place to friends, and believe it has "good, normal prices." For example, an hour of karaoke will cost 1-6 people $7. Club memberships are also offered, giving discounts the more a member visits. During the evening, there are age restrictions in place due to the bar serving alcohol, with only 18 and over after 10 p.m., and 21 and over after midnight unless accompanied by someone 25 or older. Round 1 is open Monday - Saturday 10 a.m.- 2 a.m., Sundays 10 a.m. - 12 a.m. and is open on all major holidays. NIKKI MOYLAN/ The Inquirer

Contact NIKKI MOYLAN at NMoylan@DVCInquirer.com

Round 1 is now open in Sunvalley Mall.

ASDVC chooses new Inter-Club Council chair CHELSEA SCHALLIG Staff member

Associated Students of Diablo Valley College held their first meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 6 from 2-4 p.m in the Student Union to nominate candidates for the Inter Club Council chair. President Bowen Liu started off by welcoming everyone to the first meeting.

“ICC meetings are held weekly...” ~Andrew Soegiharto Former Inter Club Council chair

Vice President of Legislative Affairs Andrew Soegiharto talked CHELSEA SCHALLIG / The Inquirer about the Student Senate for California Community Colleges region meeting which will be held Namita Verma, John Michaelson, Chris Liu, and Allen He attending their first meeting on Sept. 16 from 2-5 p.m. Jacob on Tuesday, Sept. 6 in the Student Union Building to nominate candidates for the Inter Ngai, Director of Activities dis- Club Council chair. cussed how he's planning to bring "I volunteer with the league of for students to register to vote," ment by removing $1,500 and inback the Fall Halloween event. serting $3,733. When the public forum opened women voters and the league of says Shostrom. Todd Farr, an advisor, reviewed "Total funds request is $1,500 Marian Shostrom, Librarian at women voters is a non-partisan, DVC, encouraged students to reg- non-organization that advocates an item from last year on the Ar- that's going to be paid by ASDister and vote on Tuesday, Sept. 27 civic engagement. We are partici- chitecture department's fund re- VC," says Farr. Environmental affairs officer, on campus for national voter reg- pating in national voter registra- quest. tion day and we will have a table They are seeking reimburse- Sejin Han introduced his comistration day.

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.

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

Marcel Scott Cooper Mead Erin Smith Chelsey Schallig Dominique Smith

mittee and how he plans to make changes to the DVC campus. "Last semester we worked on the carpool program, but right now I would rather work on cleaning the campus and I am open to ideas on how to do that," says Han. Andrew Soegiharto, previous Inter Club Council chair, introduced his committee about ICC because the chair was vacant. The board nominated Karren Suryajaya, Jennifer Landers, Victor Liu, Tain Hong, and Steffi Widjaja for the ICC chair. Namita Sharona Verma,Vice President of Executive Affairs, approved the five candidates who accepted his or her nomination for the new ICC chair. "ICC meetings are held weekly and it provides a forum for clubs to discuss upcoming ideas and events," says Soegiharto. Namita Sharona Verma, Vice President of Executive Affairs, approved the five candidates who accepted his or her nomination for the new ICC chair. Jennifer Landers is now the ICC new officer.

Contact CHELSEA SCHALLIG at CSchallig@DVCInquirer.com

Staff STAFF WRITERS Nina Cestaro, Jeannette Chiappone, Mirna Aboukhalil, Nagisa Tsukada, Will Nevin, Julia Muskevich, Nikki Moylan, Frank Guitron, Mia Blake, 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 &features Thursday, Spet. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

San Fransico Bay sees oceanic incursion of whales Continued from Page 1 “As more animals come closer to shore, they’re in danger of ship collisions and...crab traps, which are what they really get entangled in.” The Greater Farallons Marine Sanctuary estimates between 7,500 and 9,000 large ships transit the Golden Gate each year and the shipping channels cut right through marine habitats. There is evidence that lowfrequency noise from ships can be a stressor to whales, Dr. Maya Yamato, a Diablo Valley College marine biologist says. Research shows that whales in the Northern Hemisphere have changed the frequency at which they communicate over the last thirty years. This could possibly be an adaptation to the constant din of ships in their habitat. Fortunately, there are glimmers of progress in the protection of

marine life and their habitats, and improvement in Bay water quality. Marine biologist Dr. Jonathan Stern says, “Around the year 2000, the Bay started to become cleaner and more productive” thanks to decades of conservation legislation beginning to pay off. “In 2008, I followed a large school of porpoises inside the Bay, mothers and calves just cavorting around, and that was really surprising,” says Stern. “Now, we see porpoises in the Bay every day. They actually come in with the tides and go out with the outgoing tides” following the small fish they feed on. As many as 700 individual harbor porpoises have made their way into the Bay, Stern says, many of whom make their homes around the Farallon Islands. Great White Sharks are also now regular guests inside the Gate. When the humpbacks hung out in the Golden Gate straits this

Film club brings stories to life ERIN SMITH Managing editor

If you’ve ever thought of creating a film of your own, but didn’t have the resources available to turn your dreams into a reality, there lies an answer for you right here on campus. Every Thursday in room 112 of the Advanced Technology Center building, the Diablo Valley College Film Club meets to discuss, critique, and plan the making of student produced films. “The goal of the film club is to bring film makers together. There are a lot of pre-existing film makers on the DVC campus and they’re trying to make films on their own, and we’re trying to bring those people together,” said Tony Alfaro, broadcasting major and president of the film club. The club is a casual space for novice film makers to showcase there work and meet other like minded individuals. Members have the unique opportunity to show off projects they have directed, produced, or acted in and get some honest feed back. “It offers me a way to meet new people so I get a lot of networking, and people to help out with my films,” said Emile Caton, a film major. He and fellow member Sam Lund are currently working on a short film for the Berkeley Horror Film Festival which takes place Oct. 22. Procrastination is no stranger to college students and treasurer Jeff Ng commented on how motivating the club can be to get projects completed, “You know your peers are going to watch it,

it gives you incentive to finish.” The meetings themselves are a huge help in getting any film idea off the ground and into the production phase. Alfaro has an almost innate ability to help coordinate individuals into teams of directors, producers, and assistants and leaves no detail uncovered. Fire extinguishers and first-aid kits can come in handy on set. The business of film making is so heavily associated with Hollywood, it’s hard for some to believe there is a pulse within the Bay Area film making community. Alfaro relayed how often he’s heard actors or actresses complain about not finding any work with producers or directors and vice versa. The film club is a remedy to this problem, “Not many people realize that there is a strong film community in the Bay Area.” Film making is ultimately storytelling, and if you have a story to tell the film club can serve as a catapult to getting it on screen. “If you have a passion for something then just go for it. Even something as small as joining a club, I say go for it,” said Jonothan Villegas a film club member, actor and velociraptor builder. Tell your story and it could be presented at the Aspiring Minds Film Festival which takes place at the end of every semester in the forum. “It’s a great way to see your stuff on the big screen,” said Alfaro, and there’s nothing quite as satisfying than seeing your ideas come to life. Contact ERIN SMITH at ESmith@DVCInquirer.com

Summer, Stern said he observed ships coming to nearly a complete stop to allow the whales wide berth. Because of the number of animals, that was a lot of rerouting. “I would go out at the Marin Headlands between the Golden Gate and Land’s End. We would see 40 humpbacks at a time... spread out in groups just lunge feeding and this was for weeks at a time,” Stern says. It’s good to know that even if marine mammals are taken off the Endangered Species List, they’re still protected by the Marine Mammals Protection Act (MMPA), he says. Mary Jane Schramm of The Greater Farallons Marine Sanctuary says the MMPA recommends whale watchers stay at least 300 ft. away. This includes windsurfers, kite boarders and boaters and is for the public’s safety as well as the whale’s.

Courtesy of LYRINDA SNYDERMAN

Whales in the bay is evidence of adverse climate impact. “Stress from multiple non-lethal disturbances is also harmful, as (the whales) could be ‘spooked’ into heading...up the Sacramento River... There, death awaits if they don’t get back to the ocean,” Shramm says. When recalling her experience kayaking near the humpbacks,

police beat

Lyrinda Snyderman says, “To be in a small boat next to a whale, you really are sharing that environment with them. “It was a privilege to be allowed into their lives.” Contact JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE at JChiappone@DVCInquirer.com

calendar

Friday, September 30 Wednesday, September 14 Career Quest - Network with Local Business Leaders. Lot 8 Community Conference Center BFL CCC or CCR, 10 Car was towed after receiving 5 or more parking tick- a.m. – 2 p.m. ets. They had 26 citations. Free event and breakfast provided. Dick Callahan, (the voice of the Oakland A’s) is the keynote speaker. Thursday, September 22 Cafeteria DVC Football - San Joaquin Delta at DVC Vikings Non-student had multiple knives and drug parapher- Viking Stadium, 7 – 10 p.m. nalia on person. Advertisement

features

Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

Horticulture club sits outside during club day trying to recruit new members. The club meets every Friday afternoon.

GLENNA HERBERT / The Inquirer

Horticulture club’s ingenious idea: the crop swap ALBERTO CHANG Staff member

Every Friday afternoon, right before the meeting begins, Diablo Valley College's horticulture club members participate in an activity that has become a notable success. According to various members, it is even one of the things that they principally look forward to every week. The crop swap, one of the club's most clever ideas to get students interested in the art of garden cultivation, is exactly what it sounds like: every student swaps the crop they cared for during the previous week, for another one that is ready to be nurtured by novel hands. From jade, to aloe vera, to tomato, the range of plants handled is truly broad.

Also, as if honing your inner botanist was not cool enough, “The crop swap allows people to be creative and literally bring anything they could possibly want to swap for,” said current member and ICC officer Gregory Arganda. Eggs, canned goods, and even kelp are in circulation. Having begun just last fall semester, it is still a fairly new addition to the club’s list of recreational activities, and news of the crop swap has yet to reach more students' ears. But, for the students it has reached, it is a great benefit. Club President Peter Swenson shared his thoughts on why the pre-meeting exchanges have been so successful, "They bring people together." Further elaborating on the appeal of the service, Swenson says, “It gives our members who have spent a lot of time and

DVC instructor joins live comic book demonstration

called, "How to be Perfect." The unique aspect of this poem was that while this all pertains to a A fist full of sharpies, an easel sense of perfection in life each with paper, and the charming at- line is independent. These independent lines atmosphere of a small comic book shop were all Jason Novak needed tracted Novak to the poem, because he could to help prodifferent mote his new “You have to pull the draw things for each book, "How story elements and separate line. to Be Perfect: "You have to An Illustrated have them occur pull the story Guide." simultaneously.” elements and Escapist have them ocComics at 3090 cur simultaneClaremont Av~JASON NOVAK ously," Novak enue in Berkesaid about ley, hosted the book signing on Saturday the drawing single panel comics. While Bessie discussed the ori24th. Diablo Valley College's very gins of cartoons, Novak continuown Adam Bessie — English ously drew on the easel, working teacher and non-fiction comic as a complimentary commentary. Bessie described cartoons and writer — joined his friend for the signing, while discussing their comics as "taking abstract ideas and literalizing them." own experiences with comics. They also speculated that what The original poem was a 99 line poem written by Ron Padgett makes comics and cartoons so FRANK GUITRON Staff member

energy learning how to grow their plants in their backyards a place where they can exchange their crops and get a sense of value from their hard work.” Not only has the club sprouted an educational activity that is effectively engaging students, but it has also begun a well-received campaign of rewarding them for their hard work and instilling a deep care for the environment. The crop swap is not reserved for horticulture club members only. According to Swenson, “It is open to the campus and we would love to see it grow and become a feature here at DVC.” Contact ALBERTO CHANG at AChang@DVCInquirer.com

appealing to people is that it is a returning point of accessibility for the audience. This helps make tougher political commentaries and concepts easier to digest and understand. Bessie and Novak think the key to making an excellent cartoon comes down to a blend of humor coupled with a dose of realism to illustrate a point in a digestible way for a wider audience. Novak also mentioned that to get more attention to the art and get people to think, makes his subjects contort their bodies in unnatural gestures. Novak went to art school after the age of 25, which he theorized made him already close to his maximum potential. He credits this to what helped shape his unique art style. "Learning to draw was an 'alien' experience," Novak said. Contact FRANK GUITRON at FGuitron@DVCInquirer.com

Courtesy of KONSTANITINOS KALOFONOS

Bessie and Novak show a demonstration of cartooning.

features

Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

MIRNA ABOUKHALIL/ The Inquirer

From pointed lace heels, to graphic t shirts and university apparel, Goodwill in Pleasant Hill was fully equipped with today’s fashion trends.

Thrifting saves money, while providing hip look DOMINIQUE SMITH MIRNA ABOUKHALIL Staff members

Dominique Smith, ventured out to second hand stores in the East Bay to find cheaper alternatives of this season's hottest trends. ummer is officially over, but Goodwill, Pleasant Hill people don't seem to be too Goodwill is a goldmine of this sad. seasons trends. Punk styled graphic Retro trends are making their tees are very big right now and debut back into fashion and we've present throughout the store. got a lot to You can also choose from. find many of “The clothing might Fall 2016 the retro brand fashion is behave been a bit out tee shirts such ing described as Adidas and there, but it did have a as sporty, edgy, Puma. There’s a punk and loose nice selection of books large shoe colyet fitted. lection for both to snuggle up too.” Athletic men and wombrands like en consisting Puma, Adidas, of, men's comNike and Champion are back in bat boots, sneakers and loafers, style and we've got several trend and women’s platform heels, over setting celebrities to base our out- the knee boots and clogs, that will fits off of. make you think GOALS. Be sure You might convince yourself to check Facebook for sales. that you can, but let's be real, you Salvation Army, Pleasant Hill can't afford to buy name brands In most clothing stores the men's like YEEZY Season or Fenty x section is scarce, but surprisingly Puma. Salvation Army has a wider selecBut it's still hard to accept the tion of men's attire than women's. fact that Kanye and Rihanna are The over-sized sweater and disselling standard, yet tasteful, tees tressed denim look made a promiand sweaters for more than $50; nent appearance throughout the their cheapest items start at $350. place. Inquirer Staff member, Mirna A sporty windbreaker look and Aboukhalil, and Opinions Editor, many cashmere styled cardigans

can also be found. Several calf length snakeskin boots and heels were also available, albeit on the small side-in the 6 to 7.5 range. Savers, Dublin If you’ve ever walked into a superstore, like Costco, and dreamed of there being a thrift store just as big, Savers is your paradise. It’s definitely the place to go if you have a couple of hours to kill. The store is about twice as big as a Forever 21 and it has many bold fashion statements. Since October is right around the corner you can find reasonably priced wigs, props, and full costumes. Out of the Closet, Oakland MIRNA ABOUKHALIL / The Inquirer This store is a bit smaller, but has This brown washed denim jacket is paired with brown more authentic vintage garb. leather Chelsea boots for Women. The clothing might have been This entire a bit out there, but it did have a look was nice selection of books to snuggle found at up too. Goodwill Some of the profits go towards in Pleasant free testing for HIV and STD’s. Hill for less Most of us stay glued to social than $20; $4 media, and high fashion is conMen’s boot, stantly in our face, it can be really $12 Bomber hard not to give in and buy over priced clothing. jacket and But it's time we take advantage $3 Adidas of the affordable alternatives. t-shirt. Contact DOMINIQUE SMITH at DSmith@DVCInquirer.com

opinions

Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

NIKKI MOYLAN / The Inquirer

Dominique Smith demonstrates how to protect oneself properally with pepper spray. Dominique believes pepper spray is a neccesity to carry around.

All women should carry pepper spray

hether you believe in evolution or not, humans, monkeys and apes have a lot in common. Monkeys and apes maintain their day to day safety by traveling in communities. More eyes typically result in less danger. If one single baboon were to wander off and walk the African Savanna alone, its chances of being someone's dinner would increase tremendously. Like a solitary baboon, humans are much more prone to being assaulted when alone. Baboons have two very long and sharp canines to defend themselves against predators. Humans, however, typically only have their strength.

Assault and rape are not exclusive to women, but as listed on a fact sheet by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center , 91 percent of victims in the U.S. are women. As a strong, independent woman, I'd like to think that if I were ever attacked, by anyone, I'd be able to defend myself. But then again, I'm often aggressively approached by men. Usually they're just trying to get my number or flirt with me, but one day I stopped to think about it and I realized, anyone of those men could have hurt me if they really wanted to. Personally, I'm not your average, ditsy, likely to die, "I'm going to go downstairs to see who it is", scary

movie chick.

DOMINIQUE SMITH Opinions editor

So a year ago, when I came to the realization that my strength

alone may not be enough to protect myself against a man, much heavier, taller and stronger than me; I decided not to wait for something bad to happen. What did I do?I bought pepper spray and I'm not afraid to use it. I feel a lot safer with it and I think it'd be a smart idea for all women to carry. It's of course not guaranteed to protect a person against assault, but I believe it's still worth it to have. My pepper spray is attached to my car key chain, and I typically hold it when I feel unsafe, especially if I'm walking to and from somewhere at night. According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, every 109 seconds, an American is

New UC application creates unneeded stress on students

Fall: It's the time of year in which you towards their intended major to prepare. hear the leaves crunch on the bottom of Each of the four prompts allocate 350 your shoes, all of the sweaters come out, words.The new system has many pros and and everyone starts cramming to get their cons. The pros include that through havapplications done. ing a variety of prompts to choose from, The University of someone can choose California applicaone that can express tion for Fall 2017 has themselves the most. opened up and stuAlso since there's four different items that are dents can start submittalked about, the UC ting their applications system sees students to their dream schools as more well-rounded from November 1st to candidates. November 30th. The cons of this new The UC system insystem are that when troduced one major students start writing change in the applithe essays they come to cation process: They realize that 350 words implemented the Peris too short of a word sonal Insight QuesMIRNA ABOUKALIL count to get into any tions to replace the Staff member depth of what they personal statements. The Personal Insight have done in their life. Questions consist of Making it more four prompts that you choose out of eight challenging to express why they'd be the given. For transfer students one of these best candidate for a university. prompts are mandatory and it is the one Some of these questions include that talks about what a student has done "What would you say is your greatest tal-

sexually assaulted. Most locations of assault happen near the victims home, in a public place, or in a parking lot or garage.Unfortunately, women are common targets, so it's very important that we do what we can to protect ourselves. In the words of Beyonce, "Okay, ladies, now lets get in formation". Whether it's buying pepper spray, having your phone in hand with 911 on speed dial, or having a trust worthy person escort you to and from your car at night. Don't allow yourself to be easy prey. Pepper spray can be purchased at Dick's Sporting Goods, Target, Walmart and on Amazon. Contact DOMINIQUE SMITH at DSmith@DVCInquirer.com

ent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?"This question baffles me, because it's too narrow and is targeting a specific person. The prompts become a problem when all the questions start to target certain types of people. If you do not fall under that demographic you end up being unable to write a powerful essay. I for one have not accumulated a talent throughout my college career, much less my life, so it makes it harder to answer. Another challenge that is faced is the fact that this is a new system. As a result, theres a bit less guidance, mostly because no one knows what to expect. We're basically the guinea pigs of the new system. Some of us who are more concise, and to the point, will love it. But the people who take a bit longer to get to the point will struggle. Either way, it is happening and we will get through this one together. Happy applying.

Contact MIRNA ABOUKALIL at MAboukalil@DVCInquirer.com

Courtesy of ZAHRA ABOUKHALIL

UC Berekely, Zahira Aboukhalil celebrates graduating.

opinions

Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

Editorial

The push for free college textbooks The school publishing industry has held a duopoly for far too long now — raising the prices of books beyond the point of something college students shouldn’t have to pay for. Pearson Public Limited Company and McGraw Hill are the two power houses of the publishing industry. Senate bill-1052 and Senate bill-1053 have been signed this month by Governor Jerry Brown, allowing an online source for free college textbooks — a step in the right direction with regards to breaking up the two major publishers. The bills allow for students to access hundreds of online textbooks — none of which will likely be used by teachers — but the initiative has high hopes that some students and teachers will begin using the online source for their curriculum. We at the Inquirer believe that these bills are fantastic, and hope it will start the fall of unreasonable book prices. However, we also believe that it’s the responsibility of the college to do something about inflated book prices. By schools continuing to do business with publishing companies like McGraw Hill and Pearson PLC — schools only shackle students budgets — creating hungry, homeless, and hopeless stu-

dents. Students can now pay as much as $300 on a textbook, enough to feed a person for three months. Senate bill-1052 and 1053 have come under criticism because they allegedly don’t provide students with the best online textbooks.

Perhaps they don’t, but at least this resource will be free and not make students decide between eating and studying. Diablo Valley College should embrace initiatives like Senate bill-1052 and 1053 and ask their teachers to teach from the online

database of free curriculum that will be provided. Catherine Agnost, head of the English Department, thinks that, “The standards of learning are separate from the textbooks, we can use textbooks to meet the standards.” And teachers should

embrace this same mentality to help fight the Pearson PLC and McGraw Hill duopoly. Our school, and our students, would be better off without the expensive constraints that these publishing companies put on our education.

Letter to the editor Online dating should be taken seriously Should I swipe left or right? Should I slide into their DMs? On social media, it’s normal for the average person to want to pursue a relationship through the digital world. Apps like SnapChat and Tinder have become the gateway for online dating. According to Bustle, an online lifestyle blog, online dating is the second most popular way to meet someone new. Online dating can be a fun and convenient way to find someone. When feelings spark and butterflies flutter, many couples choose to further their

relationship outside of the social media world and it can only go North or South from there. It’s important to do your homework on someone before actually risking it and meeting them in person. Usually, this is done by browsing and stalking their social media profiles until you’re confident they’re not an ax murderer. Otherwise, you could lead to mis-identity, which is often known as “catfishing.” Being catfished is not fun when you actually thought there was potential. Referencing Pew Research Center, online

dating has increased in adults under the age of 25 and adults in their late 50s and 60s.

“When you finally meet someone you can thank Instagram or Tinder, because without the internet – would you even know if he/she was standing right next to you.” With technology taking over, the process of

online dating is completely normal. From those surveyed on Bustle, 22% have actually confessed to meeting their partner online. Don’t be ashamed from your experience, embrace it. The digital world can surprise you. When you finally meet the one, you can thank Instagram or Tinder, because without the internet — would you ever know if he/she was standing right next to you? — Daisee Mae Abad DVC student

The

Buzz

What would get you to attend more DVC events? Interviewed by: Alberto Chang Photographed by: Nikki Moylan

Isabelle Tiscareno, 18 Undeclared

Dalton Thebeau, 18 Undeclared

Mikaela Roberts, 21 Biology

“More advertisements about these events.”

“More advertising and putting them out there.”

“If I didn’t have to spend all my time studying.”

Leo Luo, 28 Computer Science

“The school has to coordinate convenient times. Maybe have teachers give out extra creditpoints for it.”

sports

Thursday, Sept. 29 - Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

Water polo break winning streak, fall to Sierra NINA CESTARO Staff member

NIKKI MOYLAN / The Inquirer

Shane Morris, left, leaves the field with Damarius Muchisan, middle, and Sam Allan, right, in game against Sequoias.

Vikings topple the Giants 44-28 GEOFFERY WESEMAN Staff member

Diablo Valley College came out with the win against College of the Sequoias as Marques Surrell recorded three touchdown passes. After coming out to a slow start — allowing a 46 yard kick off return, followed by a short pass leading to a quick 54 yard touchdown by COS — the Vikings responded with a 47 yard field goal by Manny Lopez and a 17 yard passing touchdown from quarterback Jason Brisendine to Marques Surrell on the following drive to take the 10-7 lead. After a few failed drives leading to a punt by both teams, midway through the first quarter, the Giants' Sylvester Augustyn caught a touchdown pass for a 26 yard gain that lead to the advantage to go 14-10 over DVC. DVC was not able to respond after the score by the Gi-

ants and were forced to punt the ball away, but the DVC defense stood strong as they forced a quick three and out late in the first quarter to get the ball back. The first quarter ended with DVC up 17-14. As the second quarter started the Vikings' defense did not budge and remained strong for the rest of the first half allowing DVC to score three more times before the second quarter ended. Two passing touchdowns to Dylan Alves and Marques Surrell with a field goal by Manny Lopez throughout the quarter gave DVC the 34-14 lead by the time the first half was over. The first half offense slowed down in the second half of the game as the Giants' Thomas Wilson scored on a two yard run. DVC however remained in the lead. The third quarter ended with DVC still leading 34-21. The Giants started the scoring in the fourth quarter with a touchdown which

DVC soccer maintains near-perfect record by tying with Folsom KAYLA ROBINSON Staff member

cut DVC's lead to a touchdown. The Viking offense was able to respond well throughout the game as they marched down the field for a 28 yard field goal by Lopez, his third of the game, giving DVC the 37-28 lead. Halfway through the fourth quarter the Giants' Randy Gonzoles was carted off the field after an injury to his neck. One member of the training staff said Gonzales was responsive and able to move, but with the injury to his neck he was "sent to the hospital for precautionary measures." DVC followed the delay with a quick 59 yard touchdown pass to Marques Surrell for his third of the game to give DVC the 44-28 lead. The Vikings' kept their lead to the end of the game. Contact GEOFFERY WESEMAN at GWeseman@DVCInquirer.com

KAYLA ROBINSON / The Inquirer

Freshman Sabrina Debardeleben, center, at a home game versus Folsom Lake.

The undefeated Diablo Valley College soc- Vanessa Ruvalcaba who has scored five goals cer team is off to an amazing start this season this season. Teamwork is key for the Vikings. with a 7-0-1 record. “My team keeps me motivated,” freshmen “We've got a talented group Jessica Jaime said. of players, smart on the ball and “It was a battle.” Although they were chalthey created good scoring oplenged the defense played hard portunities," coach Cailin Muland their efforts paid off in the ~ZOE RAMER lins said after the team’s first win last home game on Tuesday Defender over Cabrillo. against Folsom Lake which reDvc has scored 20 times this sulted in a tie. season averaging 2.5 goals per games. The “It was a battle,” sophomore Zoe Ramer team has many weapons including lead scorer said.

The Vikings have a promising season ahead of them including six more home games. “We have more work to do and are working towards goals we haven’t achieved before,” coach Mullins said. The Viking’s next three games will be away and they plan to keep the winning streak going. The next home game will be Tuesday, Oct.4 at 3:30 p.m. Contact KAYLA ROBINSON at KRobinson@DVCInquirer.com

The Diablo Valley College Vikings were committed in their second home game this season, but lost in an astounding 13 to 5 match, which gave Sierra their eighth victory this season. Jamie Wanket, team captain said, “I felt like we played well overall from the beginning into the first quarter." When asked what changed in the teams’ playing after the first quarter Wanket replied, “It was our confidence, and the mentality wasn’t there.

“A good learning experience for us. In the first quarter we showed them how good we are. We talked to each other and have a lot to learn from this.” ~GRACIE BISHOP Goalie

We were as good as them and our heads just weren’t in it after they kept scoring in the 2nd quarter, it was like we hit a wall.” Coach Donny Mata said, “They started off well going into the first quarter. At some point they lost confidence, lost focus.” As of Thursday, Mata wants the team to review fundamentals of water polo and make it their priority to stay aggressive. He has high hopes for the tournament outcome. Gracie Bishop, goalie, viewed this last game as, “A good learning experience for us. In the first quarter we showed them how good we are. We talked to each other and have a lot to learn from this. The impact of this loss is that we now go into practice more focused, more open-minded.” Coach Millington said, “Ah, we can’t win every game, we’ll continue to practice hard.” The three players who scored points for Sierra Wednesday afternoon were: Carissa Johnston, attacker, number ten, who scored five goals. Megan Plank, number 9, who played utility and made three of thirteen goals, and Rebecka Robinson, two meter, who scored two goals. Contact NINA CESTARO at NCestaro@DVCInquirer.com