The Inquirer Vol V No. 4 by DVC Inquirer

'Hairspray' lights it up

inquirer Volume V, No 4

DVC’s thespians sparkle on stage. See Page #6. Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

'I Believe in voting with your conscience'

Ralph Nader refers to his book “Breaking Through Power” in a speech to DVC students on October 18 in the Diablo Room.

KAYLA ROBINSON / The Inquirer

Ex-presidential candidate Ralph Nader speaks to overflow crowd at DVC KAYLA ROBINSON Staff member

Over 357 students, staff, parents, and press gathered in the Diablo room at Diablo Valley College all with one purpose, to hear from political activist Ralph Nader. “I want to show how the community colleges of California, all 125 of them, can be real power machines,” said Ralph Nader, in his opening remarks. In attendance on October 18, at about 3 p.m., a reported 197 students, staff, parents and press crowded in the Diablo room while 160 others, remained in the food court overflow seating area. “I’m here because I have an assignment for a class,” said Salam Molina, a current DVC student. “To sum up everything he said, it was basically power to the people...” she continues, “we all have to come together to know what we’re doing, so that we can use that power.”

Coming together in unity was one of the “I believe in voting with your conscience. ways Nader lead his speech on how to make If you don’t vote with your conscience and the community colleges of California a pow- you vote for the least worst [candidate], er structure. you lose all bargaining power…” Nader Currently in California there are 113 said, urging students to go out and vote, community colleges. “if we want to design According to the US this country different, “As young people it’s Census Bureau, young I wouldn’t put that adult voters between much power in conreally important that the ages of 18 through gress or the President.” we strive for success, 24 have consistently When asked how voted at lower rates hearing Ralph Nader’s not just for ourselves, than all other age speech will influence but for everyone to groups in every presitheir vote this coming dential election since Election Day, Vanessa make a difference.” 1962. West, a current DVC With Nov. 8th student said, “I actu~Vanessa West quickly approaching, ally learned a lot...I DVC Student some students and a completely underfew parents lined up stand when he says at the conclusion of we should support the Nader’s speech for a few questions regarding green party because there are so many politithis year’s Election Day. cal aspects that are represented there that are Copyright © 2016 The Inquirer - www.dvcinquirer.com

from both sides. But ultimately, I side more with Hillary so it hasn’t influenced much. As young people it’s really important that we strive for success not just for ourselves but for everyone, to make a difference.” As the questions concluded, one student came forth inquiring of the importance of even voting in this election. Nader responded, “It’s important to vote because the constitution puts such power in the hands of the President. First they can block a lot of things, they can veto or tell congress, their allies, not to pass, and pull medicare for all, for example. That can lead to what’s called the bully pulpit.” Nader continued, “Congress is surrendering its duties under the constitution and giving it to the President… so therefore it’s very important.” Contact KAYLA ROBISNON at KRobinson@DVCInquirer.com

NEWS

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

calendar Friday, October 28 DVC Women’s Softball vs Napa College Softball Field, 12 - 4 p.m. DVC Women’s Soccer vs Sacramento City Soccer Field, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Saturday, October 29 DVC Women’s Water Polo vs Sierra College Pool, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 1 DVC Women’s Soccer vs San Joaquin Delta Soccer Field, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 2 DVC Women’s Volleyball vs Modesto Junior College Gymnasium, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Thursday, November 3 Big 8 Conference Tournament Men’s Water Polo Pool, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, November 4 Big 8 Conference Tournament Women’s Water Polo Pool, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

police beat Wednesday, October 12 Performing Arts Center Petty Theft - Bicycle stolen from the back patio bike rack. Ongoing investigation. Thursday, October 13 DVC Bookstore Shoplift - Staff catch student stealing multiple drinks. Cited and released. Wednesday, October 19 Men’s Locker Room Petty Theft - Stolen wallet from unattended jeans. Ongoing investigation. Thursday, October 20 Life & Health Science Building Medical Response - Student had a seizure and fainted. Transported to John Muir in Walnut Creek. Thursday, October 20 DVC Cafeteria Sexual Battery - Student reports one month ago a classmate touched her without consent.

Music majors make perfect harmony NIKKI MOYLAN Staff member

Music majors of Diablo Valley College took the stage in the first required recital of the semester, singing and playing their hearts out to songs from different eras. While stage fright is a common challenge for performers, none of the majors appeared to experience it Tuesday afternoon as their peers in the audience took notes. Students performed oldest pieces to newest. Before performing, each student gave a brief history of either the piece they were performing or about the composer. Corinne Kelly, who sang “Have You Seen but a White Lily Grow?” stated that “One of my favorite performers, Sting, has covered this song before.” A series of music is given for the students to work on, such as piano students are required to learn a piece of music from every musical era. Performance pieces are decided between the individual and teacher they work with. Liza Pevzner, who played a piece from Bach, said her first semester she performed solo, and that this recital was her first time accompanying. “When I’m accompanying someone, working with them is one of my favorite parts,” she said. “That feeling of relief after playing a piece is my favorite part of performing solo. Pieces can take a long time to learn, so I feel accom-

NIKKI MOYLAN / The Inquirer

Chelsea Calderon and Paul York perform at the music majors’ recital 2016. plished when I finish it.” Music professor Bruce Cook says that the recital, which has been performing at DVC since the creation of the music 100 class 25 years ago, is crucial to helping musicians. It helps students who are transferring to four-year institutions prepare for auditions and advancing in the performing world. All students must audition for this class, and seats are limited to only 30 spots.

“These recitals are unique in presenting a wide variety of music, from jazz ensembles, piano, pop and classical voice, and even world music instruments like the Persian tar. Students that successfully audition and are admitted to the class do their best to represent the music department,” said Cook. The recital is a part of many performances put on by the DVC Music Department throughout the semester, with some collabora-

tions with local high school music programs. Professor Cook also encourages students to check out two unique performances in November: a performance by progressive metal band The Element, and a Persian classical music concert. Tickets to these events can be bought in advance through the music department’s website or at the door. Contact NIKKI MOYLAN at NMoylan@DVCInquirer.com

New chemistry program means good news for science students ALBERTO CHANG Staff Member

The world just got a little bit easier for non-science majors at Diablo Valley College. Moving forward, traditional science courses will no longer be their sole option to satisfy the physical science requirement. By opting for chemistry 106 or chemistry 107, they will be able to focus more on what they came here to study and less on what they did not. As every student learns in their first semester, whether one is a science major or not, one requirement for transferring to a four-year university is a successful attempt in a physical science course. Unbeknownst to many, though, is the fact that the popularly recommended classes for satisfaction are, in terms of content, largely unnecessary for non-science majors. Recognizing this, DVC is bringing back chemistry 106 and introduc-

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.

ing chemistry 107. Each has their own distinct perks but both share the same goal: save students time. With chemistry 106, students are given an alternative to the slightly more technical chemistry 108. In fact, it is specifically designed for those seeking to complete the physical science requirement without the extra profundity. Unlike its counterpart, says DVC chemistry professor Claudia Hein, “It does not try to prepare students for other chemistry courses; just to present them with a general study of chemistry.” After 15 years of offering it onand-off due to budget limitations, the chemistry department expects that it will finally be available to students on a consistent basis and that, just as professor Hein hopes, it will be taken advantage of by all who can benefit. The other component of this good news, chemistry 107, will al-

ALBERTO CHANG / The Inquirer

Students in chemestry class work on a lab. low students in the technical field of nursing to more swiftly reach their goals. Not long ago, many nursing programs revamped their physical science requirement. Instead of one year, they decided, one semester of chemistry will suffice. Ever since, chemistry 108 has been accepted in place of both

Contact ALBERTO CHANG at AChang@DVCInquirer.com

Staff

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

chemistry 108 and 109. A noticed handicap, however, was that this change permitted students keen on checking off this requirement quickly to skip the nursing-relevant topics that chemistry 109 would have equipped them with.

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

STAFF WRITERS Nina Cestaro, Mirna Aboukhalil, Nagisa Tsukada, Will Nevin, Julia Muskevich, Nikki Moylan, 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

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

The anthropology department has casts of every homo sapien skull thoughout evolution to help teach their classes.

JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE/ The Inquirer

Classes offer tools to thrive

JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE Staff member

Quick. What do you have in common with a homo sapien who lived 20,000 years ago? If you answered that you both share the same genome, you’re right! And if you said you both are exquisitely well-adapted to live 20,000 years ago, give yourself bonus points. Unfortunately for you, humans haven’t evolved fast enough to keep pace with the rapid-fire changes in industrial societies. “Our ancestors evolved to do things one way and modern human culture and technology have put us in a very different set of circumstances,” says Dr. Steven Johnson, DVC anthropology instructor.

Professor Chris Mercer, Johnson’s colleague in the anthropology department says, “Our culture is in a state of severe maladaptation. Not only is it bad for our physical selves but for our emotional selves,” and also perceived the quality of life issues.

“Our culture is in a state of severe maladaptation. ~DR. STEVEN JOHNSON Anthropology instructor

That’s where the new Institute of Practical Evolutionary Anthropology at DVC comes in. Students use the new IPEA curriculum as a vehicle to creatively design their lives and social structures to be in alignment with

what they were evolved to do. The goal is for students to feel empowered and invested in designing happy and meaningful lives, Mercer says. The IPEA curriculum integrates the fields of genomics and evolutionary developmental biology with traditional cultural and paleoanthropology to form an exciting amalgam of the latest scientific thought and a practical new lens through which students can examine their world. “What are we evolved to do?” is the key question posed to students, Mercer says. One answer is “we evolved to be persistence hunters: high-energy machines,” constantly walking, running and tracking over long distances. The physical demands of the 21st century consist largely of sitting for long hours in

front of a screen. Add to the mix a blitz of refined sugars, not even known to humans until recently, and an epidemic of diseases of modern life arise obesity, diabetes 2 and heart disease. There are emotional consequences to our modern environments as well, Mercer says. “We evolved to live in very small groups of 20-50 persons who you get to know intimately throughout your life.” “There is a tremendous amount of social stress and anxiety produced when group size and dynamics get above a certain proportion.” Social groups are getting larger and more disconnected. Mercer says, it’s important to re-establish small groups in our own neighborhoods. Contact JEANNETTE CHIAPPONE at JChiappone@DVCInquirer.com

news

CHELSEY SCHALLIG News editor

Diablo Valley College is offering a new program for students to complete a few more units and to meet requirements for their transfer or general education coursework. December Start Cyber session provides classes that will satisfy DVC GE, CSU GE, or IGETC requirements. There are a couple of classes that are high in demand for students in the program. The three-week classes will be held from Dec. 14 to Jan. 14. “Students who take on the challenge of completing a class in three weeks requires a major commitment from students, but if they are prepared and in a position to put in the time and do the work, they can move closer to their goals,” wrote Rachel Westlake, Vice President of Instruction. December Start Cyber session is a pilot program and if suc-

cessful will be offered next year. Other community colleges in the state have started to offer a similar program that has been successful. Some classes available are Introduction to Business, History of Prehistoric and Ancient Art, and Introduction to the Administration of Justice. “Our December Start Cyber session is a logical opportunity for students to move closer to their degree, certificate, or transfer goals faster,” wrote Westlake. Students can appreciate the opportunity to transfer out of DVC quickier if they can focus their attention for a short period of time on one particular subject. To learn more about the courses, go to the online class schedule from the DVC website and select “December Start Cyber session” in the “Course type” drop-down menu to see all the available courses. Contact CHELSEY SCHALLIG at CSchallig@DVCInquirer.com

DON’T SCRATCH THE SURFACE.

BREAK THE GROUND.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR SPRING 2017 STAY ON TRACK.

GRADUATE AND START YOUR CAREER ON TIME. • Small classes, personal attention • $2,000 Diablo Valley College transfer award • $14,000 Honors at Entrance Scholarships RSVP for the November 12 Fall Preview Day at smcadmit.com

Saint Mary’s College of California transfer@stmarys-ca.edu

The

New winter classes speed up transfers

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

(800) 800-4SMC

INQUIRER

Come join the Inquirer staff next semester by enrolling in JRNAL-125 Journalism major? Take JRNAL-120 and JRNAL-126

news &features Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

CHELSEY SCHALLIG / The Inquirer

ASDVC members discuss fall activities during the Oct. 11 meeting.

Food pantry and Fall Fest ASDVC projects CHELSEY SCHALLIG Staff member

Associated Students of Diablo Valley College held a meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 11 from 2-4 p.m in the Student Union to discuss installing a food pantry on campus and possible fall activities.Bowen (Chris) Liu announced that there will be a fall festival this semester and discussed new ideas with ASDVC members. "We want new fall activities for students, maybe a concert or a fall luncheon. We need ideas that are possible to have on campus so students can interact with each other," says Liu.

Another possible idea was to start a bus shuttle program to transport students from DVC to the San Ramon campus during weekdays. "The idea is possible, but the funding is going to cost too much. I contacted Ruby Horta of planning for Concord and she outlined an approximate budget and it's something, I think we can't do" says Jacob Ngai, activities coordinator. Andrew Soegiharto, Vice President of Legislative Affairs, discussed opening up a food pantry and water bottle fillings stations on campus. "I want low-income students to have access to high protein foods," says Soegiharto.

Soegiharto noted that creating a club to raise awareness and funds for the pantry would take too long. He contacted Circle K, a convenience store company, and the pre-nursing society at DVC. "I contacted clubs that revolve around health to see if they want to participate and help us. Funds and storage space still need to be discussed," says Soegiharto. Students who are interested in the food pantry and want to help out should talk to Andrew Soegiharto at the next ASDVC meeting which is held every Tuesday. Contact CHELSEY SCHALLIG at CSchallig@DVCInquirer.com

EA and Blizzard stifle creativity dollar company, to continue creating content for DotA 2 in 2013. Almost every First Person Shooter game in the early 2000’s included a map editor. Battlefield and Halo 2-3 have some of the most iconic modes still being played today. Blizzard games being released today, like Overwatch and Hearthstone, do not follow their previous format that made their games legendary, offering unlimited free creative content in the form of map editors. Companies today are more interested in locking new content behind Random Number Generator, RNG, loot boxes and card packs than investing in a map editor which has the potential to spin off another game or an entirely new genre. Why allow users to create free content which turns a game into a timeless classic being played for decades when companies can hide new content behind paid doors and release a sequel on a yearly basis?

LEARN TODAY. CHANGE TOMORROW.

PROGRAMS IN: MANAGEMENT | TEACHING | NURSING Call to make an advising appointment today pleasantoncampus@usfca.edu or (925) 867-2711 usfca.edu/pleasanton

6120 Stoneridge Mall Rd., Ste. 150, Pleasanton, CA Contact WILL NEVIN at WNevin@DVCInquirer.com

P L E A S A N TO N

ing custom maps within another game. For instance, Blizzard games Once upon a time in a CRT WarCraft III and StarCraft are famonitor gaming industry long mous for their detailed map ediago there were two companies, tor which have propelled an entire Electronic Arts, and Blizzard, who genre, Multiple Online Battlefield developed some of the most icon- Arena, MOBA. ic games in history: “The Sims”, League of Legends and DotA 2 “Battlefield”, both have de“StarCraft”, rived huge in“Blizzard games being released “Warcraft” I-III today, like Overwatch and Hearth- spirations from and “Diablo” I a custom mode stone, do not follow their previto II. Warous format that made their games within To this day, Craft III and legendary...” these video StarCraft called games have left Defense of the a permanent Ancients. mark within Developers the industry and they were all de- Steve “Guinsoo” Feak and Steve veloped before 2003. “Pendragon” Mescon from the One reason these games have original DotA map “DotA Allbeen incredibly influential is the stars” teamed up in 2006 to form ability for users to create their own Riot Games and developed League game modes within a map editor of Legends. The lead developer of for free, a feature which allows any- the items for DotA Allstars is nickone to create their own map, game named IceFrog and is notorious for settings, and even new mechanics creating content within hundreds for other players to play online. of character skills in an extremely Sounds simple and rudimen- balanced game. tary, however, multi-million dollar Many developers of the original companies and reputable develop- DotA mode, including IceFrog, ers started their beginnings creat- were hired by Valve, a multi-billion WILL NEVIN Staff member

University of San Francisco

CHANGE THE WORLD FROM HE RE

features

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

The “Hairspray” cast waves to the audience during their final bow just after singing, “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”

‘Hairspray’ sparkles onstage NINA CESTARO Staff member

he musical “Hairspray” came to life at Diablo Valley College on opening night, Oct. 21. Lisa Drummond directed this musical version of “Hairspray,” written by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. With a formidable 32 actor cast and a dozen crew members working backstage, this is one of the largest musicals recently produced by the DVC drama department. Costume designer Tara Maginnis’ rainbow-assorted cotton circle skirts, full-length, golden, silk pajamas, complete with capes, lined with feathers, and period suits displays an artistic touch. Link Larkin, played by Camron Mahaney, and the talented Dominic Tracy, playing show host, looked especially charming, dancing and singing on stage in bright and bold suits.

Other bright moments in the play were masterfully delivered by Seaweed, Penny’s love interest, played by Myles Brown, and Motormouth Maybelle, played by Toniea Hawkins. “I never thought I’d play such a pivotal role in a play and it was an honor. Even from the early stages, Lisa Drummond is really there for you to grow as an actor,” said actor Scottie Tsubota. Claudia Lascelles, a patron said, “I came because my friend’s son is in it. I can see how much hard work that they put into the production.” Dionne expressed what she thought the real message is, “This play is really about acceptance, self-acceptance and acceptance of others.” Miguel Cabrera, DVC music major and patron said, “I usually don’t like contemporary musicals but this one I love, the acting is superb.”

Photos by ALBERTO CHANG / The Inquirer

Ashley Dionne as Tracy Turnblad steals center stage.

Contact NINA CESTARO at NCestaro@DVCInquirer.com

Curtain call for “Hairspray” cast.

Penny, played by Amanda Neiman about to be freed by her love, Myles Brown, aka Seaweed.

features

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016 Mark Messenger creates a piece depicting a hungry skeletal man dressed as a decorated. soldier.

MESSENGER'S S DRONE VILLAINS

poons with dried grass, a shopping cart made of twigs, jewelry; it seems that art can take many forms. Diablo Valley College hosted its Faculty Art Gallery on October 10th and is open to the public. While all the pieces have their merit, there was one piece that seemed so multi-faceted that it needs its own review. Mark Messenger's piece "I dreamt drone villains" is one you could circle for several hours and still feel like you have only scratched the surface. The fascinating aspect of this ceramic masterpiece, is the core central message of humanity becoming more mechanized. Starting with the top of this ceramic masterpiece is a heart stuffed inside a gear. This can signify photos by Frank Guitron how humanity itself is part of the machine. Easily

unmistakable, this could be the thesis or “heart” of what this piece is trying to say. “Designing peace with vengeance” was written on the bottom. This can be viewed as a potential commentary of being controlled, with a blatant reference that our imagined peace that we strive to create is born of bloodshed. Overall, this piece has heavy themes of loss of identity, capitalism, and war profiteering. A piece definitely worth checking out in person if you can. The Faculty Art Gallery is going on until October 27th at the DVC Art Gallery from 11- 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11- 3 p.m. Friday. Contact FRANK GUITRON at FGuitron@DVCInquirer.com

Left, this piece is about Messenger’s role in the corporate machine, and at the heart of it is humanity itself.

Messenger’s “I dreamt drone villains” has heavy themes of loss of identity, capitalism and war profiteering.

features

‘Black Mirror’ reflects tech and society

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

FRANK GUITRON Staff member

“Black Mirror” is a popular anthology series picked up by Netflix, focusing on science fiction themes that beg the question: should we allow technology to have such a dominant role in our lives? Originally a British show, this new third season, the first since Netflix took over, seems to fit right in with its sibling seasons. The first episode, “Nosedive,” explores the constant need of approval that social media has ingrained into modern society. Using cellphones to rate people based on encounters breeds a sense of superficial peace among the people. Using a point system to rank people’s social status, this number can dictate who is given opportunities and who is socially ostracized. In short, if you get under a certain number, people will actively mistreat you and avoid you. This episode intuitively grasps the desperation and anxiety that social platforms create while making commentary on whether the sacrifices are truly worth it. “Nosedive” reveals another theme, that of the government allowing people to police themselves and give civil consequences after they have felt slighted. The episode asks whether sacrificing genuine happiness for government implemented “unity” is truly the answer.

Courtesy of DAVID DETTMANN/NETFLIX

Bryce Dallas Howard stars in the “Black Mirror” episode ‘Nosedive.’ Dystopic in nature by the end, “Nosedive” is truly worth a watch. The second episode entitled “Playtest” examines another form of technology, the cellphone-related world of virtual reality and escapism. The question of perceived reality and what is the true simulation, a common theme in sci-fi, is masterfully crafted as the protagonist finds himself part of a virtual reality game test run that identifies and exposes his fears. After an implant is put into the subject, his fears begin to appear and, although frightened, he is aware they are a construct. The story intensifies to the point where he cannot discern reality from the fabrications and he looses all sense of identity. This episode aptly shows fear in its brutal, raw form and

how, in the end, we are responsible for our own turmoil. The other episodes involve several traditional themes in sci-fi. For example, the final episode, “Hated in the Nation,” depicts a potential solution for the mass extinction of bees through technological replication of the dearly departed. The end of the episode shows that some solutions can also breed problems. The beauty of the “Black Mirror” anthology series is that you can watch any episode you feel like, out of order, and you don’t have to worry about continuity. If you haven’t checked this show out or want to watch the latest season, you can. It is now available to stream on Netflix.

Black people want to feel supported DOMINIQUE SMITH Opinions editor

I wonder how many people still don't understand why "Black Lives Matter". I also wonder how many of those people made it out to see director, writer and producer Nate Parker's version of "The Birth of a Nation." Nat Turner's Rebellion, on which "Birth of a Nation" is based, was an actual historical event. If you haven't taken any African American history, you may not have known this. In 1831, Turner, born a slave, gathered about 40 other slaves to join him in a rebellion against the slave owners of the south with the hopes of freeing himself and his people. Turner's rebellion and Parker's version of "Birth of a Nation" are significant because even in 2016 African American people are still struggling to be seen as equals, specifically to white people and law enforcement. I'll be honest. The movie was more focused on the slavery aspect of history rather than the actual slave rebellion. And

of course, because it's a movie, it was fabricated a bit, so seeing the movie won't be equivalent to reading a primary source about the actual rebellion. But the point I'm trying to get across is that it's vital and appreciated among the black community when non-black people show interest in learning about African American history. Even if it means going to the movies to see an African American history-related film. Unarguably, black people have been oppressed, are still being oppressed and live in a system that was not created for people of color to succeed in. So when other races do more than acknowledge that we went through and still go through hell, it means the world. If Americans knew more about African American history, other than slavery, maybe there would be more empathetic people in this country. Maybe people would better understand why there's mass incarceration of black men, why "Black Lives Matter" and why many black people are angry. Parker's "Birth of a Nation" was filled

Contact FRANK GUITRON at FGuitron@DVCInquirer.com

Graphic illustration by FOX SEARCHLIGHT

Writer, director and producer Nate Parker stars in “Birth of a Nation.” with powerful scenes and imagery. It was especially tearjerking because of the subtle ways it reminds the viewer of injustices still prevalent today. Not long before the Oct. 7 release of the film, reports of a past rape trial surfaced involving Parker and co-writer, Jean Celestin. According to Parker, who addressed the trial in a recent interview with "Variety," the rape charges against him were dropped. However, Celestin was found guilty and sentenced.

Rape is not something that should be taken lightly. It's much too common in our society. It's not okay and I don't condone it whatsoever. But I will say this, I don't think Parker or Celestin's past is a viable reason for the movie to be overshadowed. It's not fair and comes off as if African American history is not as important. Contact DOMINIQUE SMITH at DSmith@DVCInquirer.com

opinions

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

Editorial

Prop 51: Does it really help schools?

iablo Valley College has already greatly benefited from Measure E, an Educational Facilities Bond that specifically aided the Contra Costa Community College District. With a needed approval rate of 55 percent, this bond came out with a 57.6 percent approval rate in favor of the bond according to Ballotpedia.org. This granted us a soon-to-be newly renovated art complex, welcoming complex, faculty offices, as well as sports facilities, the details of which have previously been reported by The Inquirer. Proposition 51 now comes into play as the 2016 election grows nearer. This bond, although under the radar when compared to Prop. 64, the marijuana initiative, is just as important. Proposition 51 would allocate $9 billion to community schools statewide. The operative word here being "statewide." There's no denying California is one of, if not the most, expensive state to live in and construction is known to be an expensive endeavor. So just how far could $9 billion go to benefit DVC? What portion of that would we even see? Considering this bond takes all community schools — K through 12, and community colleges — into play, that $9 billion immediately gets dwindled down to $2 billion.

Graphic illustration by STEVEN STATON

Community colleges vye for the money prop 51 will yield. That $2 billion is then held up between the 113 community colleges of California, who then have to bid among themselves

in regards to who has the most pressing, well-thought-out and needed projects. When attempting to get to the bottom of

something, one can usually rely on the old adage "follow the money," and it's no surprise that our own Gov. Jerry Brown stated, "I am against the developers' $9-billion bond. “It's a blunderbuss effort that promotes sprawl and squanders money that would be far better spent in low-income communities." Furthermore, Ballotpedia.org highlighted that although this is the first education bond on the ballot in 10 years, it's the first ever to be an initiative, meaning it was not brought on by the Legislature. While at face value this bond might seem like a good idea — fix up local, community schools — it merely patches up what is a much bigger underlying issue of how poorly bond measure money is allocated in California. And at the end of the day it benefits, in this instance, big developers, taxes the common individual, and does little to help low-income communities truly in need. It's also easy to forget that bonds eventually must be paid back, with interest. A $9 billion bond at 5 percent interest allocated over a 5 year period, and then paid back over 30 years, will leave the state paying $15.75 billion in interest. So if you don't like the idea of robbing Peter (the taxpayer) to pay Paul (big time developers) vote no on Proposition 51. ~Fall 2016 Editorial Board

Letter to the editor

We need to start looking in a new direction

he existing Brentwood Center is costing $68,000 a month and its location is not suitable as it sits in a high density retail establishment. The new center is planned to be completed and open approximately Sep 2020 to support student needs in a 17 acre environment in the Trilogy/Marsh Creek Road Location. I support the Governing Board's decision to go ahead with the center as part of a phased plan for enrollment with the first phase planned to support forecasted enrollment with a future phase to increase capacity as enrollment increases. The initial facilities that are being constructed will provide what is required for the existing student population which is not expected to reach capacity for many years, at which point the 2nd phase of the project will be reviewed for additional construction. This is a SMART approach as it ensures that the costs are aligned with the needs of students when it opens. Mr. Enholm who was an instructor at DeVry and Heald, two failed for-profit institution, four years ago ran on the platform opposing the 17 acre campus and advocated for a 110 acre campus. He voted for the Brentwood Center as part of the Governing Board recommendation and helped in its bond passage, but continues to pursue a bigger campus even though

no location is available and a bigger campus is not approved by the Community College Board. There were discussions early on to move from the planned Trilogy and Marsh Creek Road location, however a feasibility study concluded there is no reasonable alternative to the original site, and the governing board voted 4-1 not to move the site, which it had already purchased. BART had urged possibly moving the site to Highway4 and Mokelume Trail, however, the BART Board had made no official decision to pursue property for a future eBART station near the intersection of Highway 4 and the Mokelumne Trail. We have no secured land for a site near an e-Bart. It would take an additional 3 or 4 years and cost an additional $750,000 or more in site-selection processing expenses alone. The move would also need to be approved by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors or the district could risk losing $1.1 million per year in current revenue. The existing construction of a planned facility at the 17 Acre center is estimated at this time to be $43.6 Million dollars. The costs to move to a 110 Acre campus would be astronomical in comparison with the taxpayers footing the bill for this increase, with no current basis for its usage based on enrollment needs. Mr. Enholm's delaying tactics in stalling the construction has already cost the district thousands of dollars. Mr.

Enholm continues to advocate for a larger campus for Antioch, Oakley and Brentwood. However, those communities must be willing to pay an increase in taxes. A key reason Measure E passed was because there was something for every taxpayer. Mr. Enholm continues to advocate for a campus in Antioch and Oakley and stated in part that the reason he won his first election was that he went before those communities and told them he would help build a larger campus. However these communities were informed that Mr. Enholm did not have the authority of Board approval for such a statement. Mr. Enholm's desire to move the campus may be more in self-interest as these new campuses would be in Ward 5, which he presently represents. The planned Brentwood Center is located outside of his ward. Self-interest is never a reason to lobby for change that is not beneficial to the larger community, especially our students. We need fresh eyes, new ideas, and a leader who can bring people together in order to solve problems with practical ideas and future thinking. Vote wisely November 8th. ~Valerie Romero-Lopez DVC student

The

Buzz

How was it driving in the rain for you? Interviewed by: Alberto Chang Photographed by: Mia Blake

JAN HIZON, 23 Electrical technology

IDALIA ROCHIN, 19 Political science

AARON HUSTONE, 22 International relations

JEZREYL BANGIT, 18 Psychology

“Not that hard. I like the rain.”

“Kind of scary. I’m always cautious.”

“Helped me practice safer driving habits.”

“Scary. People actually speed here.”

opinions

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

Hidden sugars lurk in many foods and beverages.

DOMINIQUE SMITH / The Inquirer

Sugar tax promotes good health

We are addicted to sugar. Plain and simple, it's a subOver one-third of adults in the U.S. are obese; along with conscious obsession. Sugar is in our food, drinks, and even 17 percent of children and adolescents aged 2 to 19, accordbeauty products. In actuality, it's detrimental to our bodies. ing to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. San Francisco proposed a Sugary Drink Tax known as The U.S. has not been favorable to a sugar sales tax proProposition E which was later suppressed. posal. That is to say, most Americans disThe November 4, 2014 election ballot pute any regulations of a soda tax. But distributed a comprehensive statement to comparing our country's obesity rate demonstrate similarities between the cigwith other countries', maybe it's time to arette tax and soda tax: "Cigarette taxes reconsider. significantly reduced smoking; a soda tax Mexico and the United Kingdom have will reduce consumption of sodas and added a percent tax on sugar-sweetened other sugary beverages that are driving beverages as a considerable measure in the the diabetes epidemic." fight against child obesity. The Libertarian Party disagreed with In 2014, Mexico introduced a 10 perthe measure, believing that "High cigacent sales tax on sugared beverages. Withrette taxes have resulted in smuggling, in the first year, the sales of sugar-laced tax evasion, and violence, and jacking beverages had dropped by 12 percent. The up soda taxes will likewise have adverse sales tax has made a considerable impact consequences that legislators cannot anin the pervasiveness of obesity; resulting ticipate." in its decline of 0.7 percent in men and JULIA MUSKEVICH By all means, we are each given the 0.3 percent in women. Staff member right to freedom of speech, but I find this The influence of the sugar sales tax will preposterous. Where has it ever been extriumphantly promote a healthier lifestyle hibited that burglary, tax evasion, and violence was solely for Americans, seeing that Mexico's obesity rate has already the result of higher cigarette taxes? And in what world would begun to decline within its first year of utilization. unforeseen chaos stem from higher soda taxes? For one thing, sweetened drinks are unbelievably high in

sugar, averaging about nine teaspoons of sugar. As a matter of fact, people are more inclined to drink several cans of soda a day rather than devour an entire chocolate cake. Imagine consuming nine teaspoons of sugar in your mouth each time you took a sip of your drink. It's nauseating. And on top of that, most beverages don't present nutritional benefits, if that wasn't already apparent. On the contrary, spokesman for the CFBC, Roger Salzar, is certain that beverage taxes are not the solution to ending obesity and engaging in a healthy lifestyle; it won't make people healthier but it will have consequences on businesses and consumers. Although this may be superficially true, it indicates a different issue and in my opinion a much less important one. No, beverage taxes are not intended to put an end to obesity. No, a single tax on your soda will not result in a miraculously healthy lifestyle. Yes, it will take a toll on various businesses and consumers. But, the purpose of the sugar beverage tax is to raise awareness of what we are putting into our bodies and the consequences of consuming an overabundance of sugar.

Contact JULIA MUSKEVICH at JMuskevich@DVCInquirer.com

Gas pump labels can reduce fuel use

Predictions say there will be two billion drivers by year “The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has deter2030. This trajectory not only scares me, but prompts me mined that a typical passenger vehicle burning one gallon to wonder what can be done about climate change. Earlier of fuel produces on the average of twenty pounds of tailpipe this year, someone fueling up in Vancouver was the first cus- carbon dioxide,” which the EPA has determined is the pritomer to see a new label featuring a picture of an endangered mary greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. species wrapped on the hose. The latest studies on tobacco label have shown that there A similar law will be on the ballot in San Francisco in No- are far fewer smokers in the 15-20 age group. vember, according to Jamie Brooks from When you scare people you get their Our Horizon, an activist group in Oakattention. land. The current sponsor, San Francisco However that’s not the only way. Supervisor John Avalos, is likely to push San Francisco Public Health officials the bill through to the 9th Circuit Court have said that even a 1.9 degree rise in if he hears that at least four hundred peotemperature on the West Coast will cause ple express interest in supporting it. premature death for vulnerable populaWhat will they look like? The exact tions. wording isn’t settled yet, but here’s the I am for implementing any public gist of it. policy that makes people responsible and Every time you pump gas, you’re conwant to work for a zero emissions strategy tributing to air pollution and thereby, in in their home city. part, causing global warming. Attempts to change behavior should The label could show a photo of a polar also be accompanied by alternatives that bear, deer or penguin and say, “use of this make change seem appealing and posfuel leads to higher gas emissions for this sible. NINA CESTARO state and global warming which could put If you’d like to help and can’t stop drivStaff member 33% of our endangered animal species at ing because of the area’s poor infrastrucrisk for extinction.” ture that makes driving a necessity, well Scientists suggest that it will be necessary to cut average don’t give up. You can choose to carpool one day a week. carbon emissions 80 percent if we wish to stabilize the imYou can try public transportation when going into the pact of climate change. city. One supervisor is voitng for the new warning label. If he’s Carpool, drive efficiently and make sure to vote for the joined by other supervisors after his term ends is yet to be Light Rail proposition or Bart running on renewable energy seen. only when it comes up again.

MARCEL SCOTT / The Inquirer

The Vancouver gas pump labels show endangered species.

When gasoline labels arrive — and they will arrive — it’s important that they offer hope and a view towards the preservation of our planet in the long term, along with a dose of fear to stimulate conversations about driving and its effects on endangered species.

Contact NINA CESTARO at NCestaro@DVCInquirer.com

sports

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

KAYLA ROBINSON / The Inquirer

The DVC Lacrosse club at practice on Oct.24.

Lacrosse rebuilds a once triumphant team KAYLA ROBINSON Staff member

In their 8th year since being established, the Diablo Valley College Lacrosse club find themselves in a upstream battle fighting against the current. "It's challenging because we don't recruit athletes, we can't pay for their education. We can only offer them an alternative to a university or state college, while they also receive college credits. Losing athletes is a loss for us as far as talent goes, but losing them is a good thing. It just means they went on to graduate the program and pursue higher education and to ultimately receive a 4 year degree whether they continue to play lacrosse or not." said assistant coach Davis Lehman. After the Vikings lacrosse club was established in 2008, by Terry Armstrong, they

have since become a model program for other community college's lacrosse clubs in California. A few of the coaches like to refer to Terry Armstrong as "the god-father" of the club, and attributes the success of the club to him. The team is now facing immense adversity while they rebuild what was once a triumphant team after a string of losses. "This is one of our younger years, meaning most of the experienced players that have been playing lacrosse have gone on to 4 year colleges," said Bret Rideau. This is his second year of playing lacrosse at Diablo Valley College. While there are over 200 lacrosse high school teams in California, DVC is currently one of three sanctioned clubs in the California Junior College Lacrosse Association (CJCLA).

Volleyball tied for fifth in Big 8

"We are rebuilding in the sense that you see stronger outcome in athletes that have been playing from season to season, we're slowly building that back up. A lot of the younger athletes have really stepped up, they show up to practice every day, and are constantly seeking to bring the team together as one rather than as individuals." said Lehman. The Vikings have a sports psychologist intern from John F. Kennedy University that helps with team building exercises that unify them as well as works with them one on one to give them strategies to improve as leaders. "In the end if it was all about winning [for everybody] anyone that plays sports, no one would play if losing was a thing. In other words, athletes continue to show up because they have a good time and we make it fun and they get to see that they're improving and that ultimately they're working towards

turning that streak of loses around." Lehman concluded. Off the field, the team participates and hosts events to also assist in keeping them unified. They host an annual pasta feed ceremony at the beginning of the season. They have a couple days worth of community service that they participate in with the city of Concord, where they offer manual labor to the community. This year on Saturday, November 12th, the Vikings will host an American Cancer Society Benefit game along with St. Mary's College raising funds and awareness in honor of Lauren McCullough, who was an AllAmerican swimmer at DVC.

Contact KAYLA ROBINSON at KRobinson@DVCInquirer.com

MIA BLAKE Staff member

The hawks tried to hang in there and scored a few times towards the end of the set, but still fell short. Diablo Valley College volley- The Vikings won the third set 25ball beat Cosumnes River College 11. Hawks 3-0 at home Oct. 21. “We all played together really DVC had a one game los- well,” sophomore Taylor Chow ing streak after a 3-1 loss against said. American River College on Oct. The hawks brought good energy 19 at home. to the room and reThe Vikings got “We all played mained positive and off to a strong start every time together really cheered scoring first in set they scored no matone and quickly ter how far behind well.” took a big lead. they were, but they The Hawks were struggled a lot and ~TAYLOR CHOW right behind for the DVC was able to use Defensive specialist short time and very that to their advanclose to catching tage. up with a score of 11-9, but DVC “We made sure we controlled took another big lead and ended everything on our side,” coach the set with a shot from Jade Lee. Jackie Ponciano-Babb said. DVC won the first set 25-18. Both teams had their moments The Hawks took the first lead in and many good saves, but DVC set two, but soon dug themselves bought a little more than their in a whole. competitor. CRC found themselves down “We had strong blocks and good 6-2 and took a timeout, but it passing,” freshman Careli Valdivia wasn’t long before DVC had more said. than triple their score. The Vikings are now 5-5 in their CRC’s next time out came only conference and are tied for 5th four scores later when they were place. DVC’s next home games down 17-6. DVC won the second are Oct. 26 at 6:30 p.m against set 25-11. Sacramento city, Nov. 2 at 6:30 DVC got off to another fast p.m against Modesto and Nov. 11 start beginning the third set and at 6:30 p.m against San Joaquin once again found themselves in a good position to win with four Contact MIA BLAKE at MBlake@DVCInquirer.com times CRC’s score. ADM_1612_BAC_Community_SFCCGuardsman_Oct12_6x7.5_r2_AM_0928.indd 2

9/28/16 1:11 PM

SPORTS

Thursday, Oct. 27 - Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016

Rough weekend for Bay Area football teams

MIA BLAKE / The Inquirer

Karla Ramos, Vanessa Ruvalcaba, Megan Melara and Chloe Lindemann, left to right, play against the Hawks.

Soccer win streak broken MIA BLAKE Staff member

The Diablo Valley College women’s soccer team lost their first game of the season 2-1 against Santa Rosa Junior College Bear Cubs on Oct. 14 and won the next game 1-0 against Cosumnes River College Hawks on Oct. 18. The Vikings were undefeated their first 13 games of the season and it came to an end at an away game in Santa Rosa. Amanda Galbraith scored twice for Santa Rosa in the 12th and 43rd minutes of the game giving them the lead. Noelle Lemos scored for DVC in the 36th minute of the game with an assist

from Cameron Chan, but the Vikings were not able to catch up and lost the game 2-1. The Vikings were home for their next game after their devastating loss to Santa Rosa to find their soccer field was not dry enough to play on. DVC and CRC took their battle to the Vikings football stadium. Playing on the football field challenged the players, “The ball ran more than it does on a grass field,” Midfielder Megan Melara said. “It was hard to get the through balls.” “It wasn’t the surface we prefer to be on, but we made it work at the end of the day,” coach Cailin Mullins said. The difficulty of playing on a different

surface was not enough to stop the Vikings. “Adaptability and flexibility” was a message passed on by coach Mullins to the team after the game. “It took us a while to be able to expose them,” coach Mullins said. The game remained scoreless until the very last minute. Karla Ramos scored in the 90th minute giving DVC a 1-0 win against CRC. “It was an intense game,” forward Karla Ramos said. “It felt good to win.” The Vikings tied their next game 0-0 at Folsom Lake College, Oct. 21. Contact MIA BLAKE at MBlake@DVCInquirer.com

MIA BLAKE / The Inquirer

Tight end Anatol Sklyar for a 16 yard pass completion against City College of San Francisco.

Big win after huge loss

GEOFFREY WESEMAN Staff member

Coming off of a huge loss at home, Diablo Valley College’s football team won an away game at De Anza College 44-20 on Oct.22. The Vikings had 85 yards rushing, 179 passing yards and three interceptions. DVC got off to a slow start and were down 10-3 going into halftime. The Vikings quickly found their rhythm in the second half of the game, scoring six times with one blocked extra point kick attempt. Running back Desmond Nisby rushed for 83 of the 85 net yards for the Vikings and scored three of the touchdowns. Wide receiver Marquese Surrell scored on a 61 yard pass from Jadon Brisendine. The Vikings defense was just as explosive

as their offense. Ryan Payne and Marcus De La Pena both scored on interception returns in the fourth quarter. In DVC’s loss to San Francisco, offense was minimal in the first quarter as SF's quarterback Lavell McCullers netted a long 77 yard run for a touchdown. When taking note of the struggles early, Coach Mike Darr of Diablo Valley said, "They got the big play they needed and got it rolling." Midway through the second quarter, the Vikings allowed a touchdown to Kevin Shaa of San Francisco City. San Francisco would score another time before the half was over. The Rams would get the ball to begin the second half already leading 21-0. On the first drive of the second half San Francisco would score on a 38 yard

rush by Lorenzo Logwood. Before the third quarter had ended, San Francisco would score to increase their lead to 35-0 keeping DVC scoreless going into the final quarter. DVC wide receiver, Marquese Surrell, remained positive as he said, "Never give up until zero is on the clock." DVC came away with a number of empty possessions — in a frustrating game — before they scored on a passing touchdown to Miles Harrison late in the game. On the sideline no. 38 Jeff Hansen yelled to Miles Harrison, "Take it to the house." The Vikings avoided being shutout and redeemed themselves in their latest win against De Anza College. Contact GEOFFREY WESEMAN at GWeseman@DVCInquirer.com

he San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders did not have pleasant Sunday afternoons. The 49ers lost to the Buffalo Bills 45-16. Colin Kaepernick performed well in his first start in coach Chip Kelly's eyes. ESPN staff writer Nick Wagoner reported coach Kelly said, "I don't think there's a lot of rust. I think there's some things, he’s not a guy that’s played seven straight games and is seeing things just like that." At the half, the 49ers were down by only a field goal until the Bills offense got on a roll. During the second half, the Bills offense ran wild over the 49ers defense. The 49ers could not stop Bills running back LeSean McCoy and the Bills offense. LeSean McCoy ran over the 49er defense as he posted 140 rushing yards and three touchdowns. If the 49ers want to succeed in the future they need to find a way to stop the run. San Francisco ranks last in defending the run and 28th in total defense. You simply can't win games if you can't defend. The same goes for the Oakland Raiders. No matter how high powered an offense is, defense is what wins games. The Oakland Raiders were beaten on all platforms on defense. The Kansas City Chiefs averaged 9.1 yards per pass and pummeled the Raiders on the ground with 183 yards rushing. Oakland's defense ranks GEOFFREY WESEMAN last in total deStaff member fense as they are torched by the pass. Oakland has allowed 1,876 yards through the air which is music to the ears of the opposing quarterback. In an interview regarding defense with ESPN Staff writer, Paul Gutierrez, Oakland defensive end and outside linebacker Khalil Mack said, "It's our job to respond."

“No matter how highpowered an offense is, defense is what wins games.”

If this Oakland team wants to continue to be a division leader and a possible playoff contender, they need to get the quarterback. The late Raiders general manager Al Davis said in an ESPN Films Presents, "Somewhere within the first five to ten plays of a game the other team's quarterback must go down, and he must go down hard." The Raiders and the 49ers will need to come out with some defensive pride and perform if they look to win.

Contact GEOFFREY WESEMAN at GWeseman@DVCInquirer.com