5-17-12 by DVC Inquirer

Farewell and good luck on your finals! May your education at DVC transcend your life experience. Page 5

The

INQUIRER S tudent V oi ce

D iablo Val ley C ol le g e

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

www.TheInquirerOnline.com

Puente provides results Lorena Rojas Staff writer

Getting into a university can be complicated for some students. However, these students have a resource at DVC to help them. “Puente” is a program that helps them to follow a career and many of the students today show their success leading important projects. Patrick Leong started the program at DVC in 1997 after several months of training at the University of California at Berkeley. This program helped the Latino students to develop leadership skills and when they graduate they come back to help others. In this way Puente helps to encourage the Latino community to have a higher level of education. Puente is a “one -year, pre- transfer

program” said Leong. It is for all the Latino students that meet the eligibility criteria. For those able to follow all the steps of the three components of the program which are: English 118 and 122, counseling and work with the mentors. Leong said that success of the program can be counted through “hundreds of students that using ‘Puente’ have transferred to diverse universities.” He pointed particularly to Arturo Castillo, a DVC student who used “Puente” and now is the project director of La Clínica; a health organization in the Bay Area. María Reyes, a student who through Puente was able to get in to San Diego University, now has come back to the community with an education program for the Monument neighborhood.

“I heard of Puente through a friend… I was struggling with my English class, I felt that I did not have the right level to go forward” said Angel Silva, a DVC business administration student from El Salvador. He wanted to be part of the program and then met with a counselor at the counseling department and she led him until he got in the program. How does one get in to Punte? Silva started meeting with a counselor, Silvia Delgado. Second, he filed an application form in the Internet and attended a group workshop to learn the general procedures of the program. Although, Silva only attended the program

Theft hits art department

PUENTE, Page 2

HAKEEM MONTES Managing editor

An unusual spike of reported theft in the art department has left students and staff perplexed and suspicious. Three laptops have allegedly been stolen from the art department studios between April 24 and May 7. Other items reported stolen

during this same time period include wallets, an iPod, a purse and an iPhone. Two of the three laptops reported stolen belonged to art instructors Karl McDade and Jane Fisher. The common theme in the cases of THEFT, Page 2

What do you know about Islam? BRIAN DONOVAN Editor in chief

PABLO CABALLERO/ The Inquirer

Dr. Araim explained Islam to DVC students at a conference on May 10.

ASDVC needs adviser AIDAN HERRICK Puzzles and Games editor

As the semester draws to a close, the thoughts of many students turn to the summer. For the ASDVC and the Student Life Office staff, their thoughts rest on who will become the new advisor in the fall. With current advisor Yvonne Canada returning full time to the counseling center in the fall, and budget cuts eliminating the Dean of Student Life position, which he’s held for nearly a decade, many have begun to wonder who will step up to the task of advising the ASDVC. “The position is extremely important as a support to student leaders and their right to participate in campus governance. They also advocate

for students’ interests with the district governing board and with the state community college system and the

“The position is extremely important to student leaders and their right to participate in campus governance” ~Bill Oye Dean of Student Life

legislature,” says Oye. “The advisor helps ASDVC set goals and to supports them in their work to achieve

those goals.” One of the benefits of being ASDVC advisor is a reduced workload. The position offers a release time as high as 60 percent, which would free up a great deal of time for the faculty member that takes up the post. “We have many faculty members on campus who serve as club advisors, and this might be a similar experience for those successful advisors,” Oye added. Though a handful of faculty members have said that they may be interested, the Student Life Office has yet to receive any official letters of interest, the deadline for which is at the end of business day Thursday the 17th. Contact AIDAN HERRICK at Aherrick@TheInquirerOnline. com

Library hours extended for finals MILLIE MCCORD Staff writer

Starting May 14, the DVC library extended its operating hours by an hour every day this week and Monday and Tuesday during finals week. The hours are now 8a.m.-10p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8a.m.-5p.m. on Friday. The hours are extended for this fall

Curious students and faculty alike gathered last Thursday at the Student Union building to listen to DVC professor Dr. Araim speak about a religion which roughly one-fifth of the world’s population follow. Araim’s experience goes beyond academics as he was an Iraqi diplomat to the U.N., is currently President of the Islamic Community Outreach of California, member of the Executive Committee of the Interfaith Council of Contra Costa Coutny and former Secretary of the United Nations Special Com-

consent of the people.” Araim criticized American foreign policy by bringing up how over one million Iraqi children died as a result of U.N. imposed sanctions spearheaded by the U.S. “Lift sanctions against children and impose them on the dictator,” he emphasized. He also stated that the U.S. stance on Israel doesn’t help with peace. “Unless the U.S. helps to resolve the Israeli/ Palestinian conflict, there will continue to be problems between the middle east and the U.S.” ISLAM, Page 2

Fee hikes this summer HAKEEM MONTES Managing editor

Come summer of 2012, the California Community College per unit fee will increase to the all time high of $46 per unit. According to Article 9, Section 5 of the California State Constitution, “The Legislature shall provide for a system of common schools by which a free school shall be kept up and supported in each district…” Since a free K-14 public education system is guaranteed for all California residents, community colleges districts are not allowed to charge tuition for their educational services. The money which is paid for community colleges is technically classified as a “fee” rather than as tuition. Due to Proposition 13

passing in California in 1978, which limited the amount of funding made available to public schools from property taxation and the precipitating

“Summer semester of 2012 will mark a new era where students will shoulder the largest amount of per unit cost in the entire history of California Community Colleges.”

event of a recession, the first fee was imposed upon community college students in 1984. Fees have been continually raised since then except between 1996 – 2003 when it decreased from $13 per unit to $11 per unit. The most drastic increase in fees occurred in 2012 when the per unit fee increased to $36 per unit. Summer semester of 2012 will mark a new era where students will shoulder the largest amount of per unit cost in the entire history of California Community Colleges.

Contact HAKEEM MONTES at hmontes@TheInquirerOnline. com

Timeline of per unit tuition costs

semester as well but not summer semester. A portion of $50,000 made by the DVC book center was allocated to ASDVC, which ASDVC then gave the library for the purpose of extending hours. Contact MILLIE MCCORD at mmccord@TheInquirerOnline.com

mittees against Apartheid and on Decolonization. Araim started with an Arabic prayer of peace before starting the discussion. He went over topics ranging from the fundamentals of Islam, what it means to be a Muslim American today, to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, which he “holds close to his heart.” “There is no contradiction between Islam and democracy,” exclaimed Araim as he was debunking Islamic stereotypes promoted by corporate media. “Islam supports such kind of conduct in the community and society. No one can rule the people without the

1984 $5

Spr. 1993 1991 $10 $6

Fall 1993 $13

1999 $12

2000 $11

2003 $18

2004 $26

2006 $20

2009 $26

2011 $36

Information from EdSource and California Community Colleges Chancellor’s office

• NEWS 1, 2 • SPORTS 3, 4 • OPINIONS 5,6 • EDITORIAL 5 • ARTS & FEATURES 7,8 • CAMPUS BUZZ 5 • CALENDER 2 • POLICE BEAT 2 • STAFF INFORMATION 5 •

2012 $46

News

CALENDAR April 20-May 22 Library exhibit - DVC Printmaking Current Mon-Thur 8 a.m. - 9 p.m Fri 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sat 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Library

Thursday, May 17 Saint Mary’s College visits DVC 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Career, Employment, and Transfer Center

Friday, May 18-20 Drama Production: Tartuffe 8:00 p.m. Arena Theater

Saturday, May 19 Final Exams Begin

Monday, May 20 Registration begins for new and returning students

Tuesday, May 21 CSU East Bay visits DVC 9:40 a.m - 1:00 p.m. Career, Employment, and Transfer Center

Friday, May 25 Graduation Day 7 p.m. Viking Stadium Moved to gymnasium if rain is an issue Emeritus College 21st Birthday Dinner 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Norseman Restaurant

Monday, May 28 Memorial Day

Monday, June 18 Summer Classes Begin

Wednesday, July 4 Independence Day

Friday, August 17 Fall Classes Begin

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

ISLAM From Page 1

Araim, towards the end of the discussion, brought the international scale to perspective. “The global south is suffering because the lack of cooperation,” he said. “The international economic system isn’t working.” When finished speaking, Araim took questions from attendees. Drama professor Ed Trujillo asked Araim, “Islamic communities have insulated themselves in England, France and Germany. How do we integrate them and stop that from happening here?” Dr. Ariam answered by stating that Mohammed emphasized the importance of the neighbor and explained

THEFT From Page 1

the stolen items was that they were left unattended. As art instructor Fisher explained, “People are always on the move in the Art Department,” which makes it difficult to constantly monitor ones personal property. Contra Costa Community College Police Detective Tom Holt is responsible for investigating cases of stolen property at our college. In a phone interview, Holt said, “There are no leads in the case and there is no follow up at this time.” The recent rise of thefts in the Art Department has contributed to creating an uncomfortable academic en-

“Culture is having a great impact on people everywhere in the world.” ~Dr. Araim

that it is culture which causes the isolation. “Culture is having a great impact on people everywhere in the world,” said Araim. “Prophet Muhammed warned of tribalism, we should not commit ourselves to the interests of tribes.” After questions were answered, Middle Eastern food was served and people visited vironment. As only registered art students are allowed to be in the studios during instruction, classmates and staff are becoming suspicious of each other. In reaction to the recent thefts, students and staff in the Art Department have raised awareness in an attempt to discourage any further incidents. Art studio aid and biology major Joseph Horvort proclaims, “People are definitely watching their stuff more often.” Fine arts major Nicolette Coffin explains how she felt when an unidentified person went inside of her backpack and removed her wallet. Coffin says, “You feel violated and pissed off because

each other. Yama Rahimi, a Muslim business accounting student brought up the similarities between his religion and Christianity. “If they [Christians] read the Quran, they will find that 90 percent of it is similar to what Jesus said,” Rahimi states. He mentions that Jesus is quoted 25 times in the Quran, the same amount as Mohammed was. “It’s your character that makes the person, that’s what Islam teaches.” Dr. Araim has just recently published a book titled “Understanding Islam: 50 questions,” which is now available online on Amazon and at the DVC Bookstore. Contact BRIAN DONOVAN at bdonovan@TheInquirerOnline. com

PUENTE From Page 1

general procedures of the program. Although Silva only attended the program one semester he said, he is now ready to go back during the fall of 2012 because Puente is going to help him to gain the leadership skills he needs to be successful. Silva’s mentor is drama professor Ed Trujillo, whom is also the adviser of the Latino Student Alliance at DVC. “A mentor does not necessarily need to be a professor,” said Silva. “It can also be a business person, counselor or any successful person who can advice the student about his or her specific project.” Some students have never heard about Puente, like Jorge Acosta, who attended

you can’t do anything about it. I was really not even that far away.” Art Department chair, Michele Krup, states, “It’s creepy; It’s a violation. I want my students to feel safe when they are in the classroom.” In an effort to stave off further thefts on campus, Krup and Fisher have sent out emails to faculty and staff strongly encouraging them and their students to watch their possessions more closely. Anyone who has information regarding any of the missing items is encouraged to contact college police Detective Tom Holt at tholt@dvc. edu. Contact HAKEEM MONTES hmontes@theInquirerOnline. com

ESL and now English classes. Acosta said he has been in different orientation programs to help his senior daughter to find the right way to get in the university but hadn’t heard about this program. Acosta said what students need is a one-on-one orientation but “not only general information… what’s needed is help about how to do all the procedures to get admitted and where we can do them.” Leong said Puente works individually with each student’s needs. “The mentor gives them an academic guidance,” said Leong. Silva also states, “If I hadn’t attended Puente, I wouldn’t go forward as I am now.” Contact LORENA ROJAS at lrojas@TheInquirerOnline. com.

HAKEEM MONTES / The Inquirer

Yvette Rodriguez paints ceramic art as classmate Katarina Bagherian retrieves lunch from her own backpack. Advertisment

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

Sports

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

Vikings fight until very last pitch scoring began in the fourth inning with Devin Alexander and Matt Burks hitting back-toback triples. Ryan Kochan would knock Burks in from third with a sacrifice fly to make the The Vikings fought and clawed their way game 2-0. through the CCCAA baseball playoffs, but it The hardest hit ball came from the most was not enough to secure a spot in the state unlikely candidate in the eighth inning. Matt championships, with the Vikings dropping to Burks reached on an error and was bunted San Mateo 5-2 in the second game of a dou- over to second base. Then, the Viking’s secbleheader. ond baseman Eddie Aguayo put a charge The Vikings lost to San Mateo in the first into a ball that was a mere foot from escapround of the CCCAA Super Regionals on ing the park over the left field wall, but instead Friday, May 11, dropping them to the loser’s bounced off the wall for an RBI double. The bracket of the tournament. In order to ad- score was 4-0. vance they had to win a doubleheader on Sat“I was just trying to get a run in for my team, urday, with Ohlone being the first game and the but got lucky and hit one hard,” said a modest winner of San Mateo - Cosumnes Aguayo. “I haven’t hit a home run as their second opponent. “When you all year, that’s not really my style, Head coach Steve Ward was so if it did end up going out it optimistic to start the day. “We’re get as far as we would have been an accident.” just trying to fight our way out did, it means The Vikings would rally and get of the losers bracket,” said Ward. Aguayo home, making the final it was a great “That’s the challenge you face score 5-0. when you lose early. It’s a tall orseason.” Spirits were high looking forder, but we’re almost there.” ward to the next game against San “Almost there” is the key Mateo, but the scheduling may ~STEVE WARD phrase, as the Vikings played Head Baseball Coach have proved to be a factor that well in the first half of the day. ended up working against the ViThe Vikings matched up against kings. While DVC finished their Ohlone and beat them handily 5-0. game against Ohlone, San Mateo was still in Starting pitcher Alex Palsha’s curve ball the third inning against Consumnes, meaning was biting hard, leaving the Ohlone offense the Vikings would have to wait a few hours for off balance and guessing. He threw a two-hit their opponent to be ready. Then the Vikings complete game shutout, striking out nine and had to travel from Cañada College in Redretiring 17 batters in a row to finish the game. wood City to San Mateo College to play on a “I just concentrated on getting that first different field. pitch strike and it really payed off,” said Palsha. Needless to say, the momentum that the Vi“My curve ball was my best pitch going and I kings rode through game one of the doublejust worked off that.” header was not there for the second. It wasn’t the same for Ohlone’s pitcher, with Starting pitcher Blake Fassler was not his DVC hitting balls hard all over the field. The usual self, giving up five runs through five inTOM RIZZA Sports Editor

TOM RIZZA / The Inquirer

The Vikings slap high fives and say “good game” as their season ended on Saturday, May 12, 2012. nings. Ben Brown stepped in for the final four innings and pitched shutout ball, but the five runs was just too much for the Vikings offense to overcome. The Vikings rallied and scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth, but it was too little, too late. “I thought we hit the ball the best in that game,” said Ward of his offense in the game against San Mateo. “We hit the ball hard, but right at the fielders. It’s like the old coach’s saying ‘we got baseballed.’ It’s tough but that’s the way it goes.” The Vikings finished the season with high personal honors, however. Shortstop Aaron

Hernandez was selected MVP of the Big 8 conference. Pitcher Nick Pasquale, first baseman Devin Alexander and second baseman Eddie Aguayo made All-League First Team. Utility man Ryan Kochan made All-League Second Team and outfielder Matt Burks made honorable mention. “We had a good team, and a very good season considering the obstacles we faced,” said Ward. “We continued to play hard. When you get as far as we did, it means it was a great season.” Contact TOM RIZZA at trizza@TheInquirerOnline.com

Swimming and diving adds to legacy with 435 points to DVC’s 431.5 points, the closest margin in state meet history. Overall, the women finished in second place and the men in seventh place. DVC’s swim and dive team had a As another swim and dive season truly eventful season, one that people comes to an end there is the inevitacould argue is one of the team’s best ble loss of some sophomores. While in its history. their departures will be saddening, The team concluded the regular seatheir futures are very bright. Several son with an unblemished record while of members of the team have received taking first place in three of the four swimming scholarships to four year invitationals they attended. They finuniversities including Nick Garrett goished a mere second in the other ining to Mesa State, Scott West going to vitational. Biola University, Lisa Boozer going to The team also produced 20 AllCSU East Bay, Courtney Leonard and Americans, a women’s All-League Brigitte Braun reuniting at Chapman MVP in Taylor Henry and a women’s University and Cody John and Andrew Coach of the Year in Rick Millington. Bond becoming teammates at UniA great regular season was followed versity of the Pacific. Others, while up with a successful postseason, where ALEX BRENDEL/ The Inquirer not on scholarships, will be transferthe team took part in the inaugural The DVC swimming and diving team put together another valiant effort. The women were ring, with Antonio Silva heading to Big 8 conference championship meet. UCLA and Robert Graves attendjust 3 points away from the highest score at the CCCAA state championship on April 28, 2012 The DVC women etched their names ing UC Berkeley to pursue a strong in the record books by becoming the Yoder won the 50 meter breaststroke with the the 100 meter and 200 meter butterfly. education. The pedigree of the DVC conference’s first title holders. The men also second fastest time in state history and Lisa But it was the final relay that was by far the swimming and diving team is clearly evident in performed well, finishing second in the cham- Boozer took home the 100 meter breaststroke most dramatic. DVC held the lead in the 40 these transfers. pionship. with the fifth fastest time in state history. yard relay for the majority of the competition, The DVC swim and dive team works toward The state championship was witness to While no records were threatened, the men but it managed it slip away in the waning sec- adding to the history of DVC athletics as well more accomplishments, and some heartbreak, have no reason to hang their heads. The men’s onds. “The meet went down to the last relay. as setting up its members for success in their for the swim and dive team. team finished fourth in the 800 meter relay. We were ahead for 395 of the 400 meters, and future endeavors. They do a great job at both. The women’s team won both medley relays Lee Ward finished fourth in the 200 meter for the last five yards we just got out-touched,” at 200 and 400 meters, respectively. Individu- individual medley and fifth in the 200 meter said coach Millington. Contact GABE AGURCIA at ally, the team saw two of its members become freestyle. And Nick Garrett took fifth in both Orange Coast College took the state title gagurcia@TheInquirerOnline.com state champions, in record times at that. Shaila GABE AGURCIA Staff writer

Leaping into the record books HAKEEM MONTES Managing Editor

Double State qualifying and Big 8 conference Co-MVP, Khyia Slone transcends gravitational limits with style and grace as she progresses to the state track and field competition. Slone is currently ranked third in the state in the triple jump and sixth in the state in long jump. Slone was voted as a Co-MVP at the most recent Big 8 conference along with an athlete from Sacramento City College for her stellar overall performance. DVC Head Track Coach Shelly Pierson says about Slone, “She is an amazingly talented athlete…She could be an Olympic athlete if she puts her mind to it.” Pierson explains that Slone is being “recruited from colleges of all levels…Division 1, 2 and 3 along with NAIA [National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes].” Pierson suggested Slone would continue at DVC for one more year before moving on to a four-year college team so she may

be better prepared. When asked about what drives her, Slone reveals it is her family which gives her the motivation. Slone says, “My mother and sisters specifically. Both of my sisters had babies at a young age and can’t really do sports anymore.”

“She could be an Olympic athlete if she puts her mind to it.” ~Shelly Pierson Track and Field Head Coach

Another interesting fact about Slone is she is always in style while running due to the wildly designed socks she chooses to wear and the colorful manicure she sports during practices and competitions, coach Pierson notes. As Slone was making her practice jumps during our interview, she broke her own personal long jump record by landing a 19 foot long jump. Slone’s previous personal

best was 18 feet six inches. DVC sprints and jumps coach Charlotte Sneed, who works directly with Slone, was ecstatic with the new personal record and has very high hopes for Slone. “She looks beautiful in the pit,” said a glowing Charlotte Sneed as she smoothed out the sand for another jump. Sneed said Slone wasn’t supposed to practice jumps that day, but she looks so good jumping her coach wanted to ensure that we saw her in her best form and simple drills don’t do her justice. Slone will be competing for DVC at the CCAAA State Track and Field Competition May 18 – 19 at Cerritos College in Norwalk. Khyia Slone leaves an impression of optimism, dedication and intent focus. In Slone, DVC track and field has an extraordinary competitor heading to state finals. She is a truly driven and vibrant athlete and an inspiration for all. Contact HAKEEM MONTES at hmontes@TheInquirerOnline.com

TOM RIZZA / The Inquirer

Khyia Slone walks on air as she prepares for the state championship on May 18-19, 2012.

Sports

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

Student Athlete Transfers of ‘12 Student Baseball

School

Nick Pasquale

North Carolina State University

Aaron Hernandez

Kansas University

Softball Alyssa Matoba

Dominican University

Devon Jamerson

Metro State, Colorado

Briana Zielinksi

CSU (undetermined)

Valerie Melville

CSU (undetermined)

Basketball (Men’s) Raphael Carter

University of Nevada

Brian Goins

Concordia University

Ronnie Baker

University of Alaska, Fairbanks

Daniel Zitani

Pacific University of Oregon

Basketball (Women’s) Diane Moore

University of Hawaii

Symone Pillors

Dominican University

Aliesha Coulter

Southern University of New Orleans or William Jessup College (undecided)

Swimming and Water Polo Courtney Leonard

Chapman University

Lisa Boozer

CSU East Bay

Brigitte Braun

Chapman University

Nick Garrett

Mesa University, Colorado

Andrew Bond

University of the Pacific

Robert Graves

UC Berkeley

Cody Johnson

University of the Pacific

Antonio Silva

UCLA

Scott West

Biola University

Nicole Meyer

CSU East Bay

Track and Cross Country Guillaume Hansel

UCLA

Violetta Alaiyan

UCLA

Tyler Malley

University of La Verne

Sara Ribeiro

Craig College Ministry

Nick Easton

ASU

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

The

Buzz

What are some unexpected lessons you have learned this semester?

MICHAEL STELZNER, 21 Philosophy

“The school clearly cares more about unnecessary vacations for themselves than upgrading our obsolete equipment.”

YASMIN CORDOVA, 21 English

“Really do your work before it is due, and not at the last minute.”

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

Editorial The true lessons of college As we approach the end of the semester, we should take a moment to reflect on the past and look to the future. What did you learn this semester? Where will you be next semester? The answers to the latter may cause excitement or doubt. Transition can often be frightening thanks to the uncertainty of it all. If you are transitioning, you aren’t alone. Almost all of the editorial staff at this paper won’t be with the paper next semester, and several of us are transferring to four year universities. However, even if you aren’t making a transition in your life right now, it is important to take control of what you can. You, as a student spend a lot of money and time to attend this college. Make the most out of it. Explore the many student clubs that we have on campus, attend DVC events and be an ac-

JOSEPH ALEXANDER, 20 General Education

“I learned how much time you need for school since high school is less regulated than college.” Interviewer & Photographer: Pablo Caballero

portunities to places where degrees can‘t reach. By taking control of your own destiny, you will head towards your goals. One thing you can do to assist in this is to think of any unex-

cord straight and take responsibility for what I have done as President. On April 26th, the executive committee of the ASDVC was scheduled to meet; however, we did not due to concerns raised: mainly that our meeting violated the Brown Act. Per the Brown Act, we have to

post special meeting agendas 24 hours in advance, which I as the President did for the meeting on the 26th. However, due to oversight on my and the Student Life Office’s part, we stamped the meeting agenda with the date April 26th, not April 25th, the date it was created and posted. The work-

ers in the Student Life Office can corroborate my claim. So, we could have still legally met, making the concerns brought up by the students present and by the Inquirer moot. So, as a student, I would want to see this corrected in the next Inquirer edition. I would want to see a retraction and public

apology on the front page. As a student, I can recognize that mistakes are made; as individuals, we must all take responsibility for our actions and our mistakes. K Kanghee Kim, President, Associated Students of DVC

Opinions

Foreign students need community support

YUNHEE ROH Advertising manager

“If you have an open mind, things will open up and opportunities will come.”

tive member of the community college experience. By making the right friends and connections on campus, you will only enrich your educational experience and expand your op-

We’re not here to give you a false sense of hope or a bleak Graphic Illustration by JACK DILLON picture, but just to tell you that pected lessons you learned while what you experience in college at DVC. These aren’t obvious is more valuable than the money lessons like algebraic processes you’ll earn from a degree. or historical facts for that easy A, but instead things that you can apply to other fields, such

ASDVC head sets record straight

WILL CONABLE, 29 English

AMANDA WADE, 24 Undeclared

as critical thinking, professionalism, self-discipline or just simply your life. These are the true lessons of college, ones that go far beyond job prospects. In fact, it’s very likely that you won’t get a job within your major. Researchers from Northeastern University in Boston estimate that in 2011, about 760,000 of the 2 million employed young graduates with bachelor’s degrees were working in jobs that only require a high school degree. In addition, another 700,000 graduates under 25 were unemployed.

Letters to the editor

In response to the Inquirer’s article published on May 3rd, 2012 titled “ASDVC Deletes Critics”, I have taken it upon myself to respond as a concerned student. Full disclosure: I am the President of the ASDVC. While the ASDVC is pursuing an official statement, I want to set the re-

“Both the uncertainty principle and Schrodinger’s Cat can apply to interpretations of American literature.”

Opinions

It has been a big issue in Korea that lots of young ambitious students who were going to prestigious universities in the United States like Harvard commit suicide. Unfortunately, international students from all over have been attempting suicide, not only just Korean students. The suicide rate among international students, especially those from Asia, has been increasing. According to a 2009 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the ninth leading cause of death among international students which is higher than the national average. According to the Jed Foundation, suicide is cited as the second leading cause of death on college campuses across the country, and Asian-Americans and Asian international students often make up a disproportionate number of total self-inflicted fatalities. At Cornell, 13 out of the 21 suicide victims between 1996

and 2006 were Asian-Americans, who at the time had made up 14 percent of the total student population. More recently, three Caltech students — all Asian or Asian-American — were found dead between May and July in individual cases that were all pronounced suicides. While all students face many difficulties, international students face additional academic and social challenges due to cultural adjustment, prejudice or discrimination, language difficulties, social or spiritual isolation, not being allowed to work outside the academic environment and no culturally appropriate physical and mental health services. Given that the demands for cultural adjustments frequently place international students at a greater risk for various psychological problems, it is important that sufficient and readily accessible mental health services be established for them. For example, it is hard to find specialized counselors for international students who are experts on international students’ academic goals and concerns, which is why the gap between American and international students is getting bigger and bigger. Also, it is hard to form a strong community between domestic and international students which

can help international students With a supportive campus with a smoother adjustment to network or community of interthe new environment. national students, students and The laneducators could guage barrier develop meaningful “In my between intercross-cultural expeexperience, I national sturiences. dents and naLack of crossfound it tive residents cultural experience also causes is the main bardifficult to some probrier for teachers become lems. In my and staff who have experience, I difficulty with unfriends with found it diffiderstanding foreign cult to become non-international students and their friends with students since I needs and issues. non-internaIndeed, solving this tional students couldn’t express problem will go a since I couldn’t way towards myself fully in long express myaddressing the English. This is mental and physical self fully in English. This of interone reason why problems is one reason national students. why internaOne thing that international tional students concerns me is that students tend to this figure on intertend to rely on people from rely on people national students is their own ethnot to be applied to from their own all of them. nicity. In addition, Just like there ethnicity. ” a prejudiced are many different belief that inkinds of American ternational stupeople, internadents are slow learners or trou- tional students are not all the blemakers because of their lack same. Even among them, there of English proficiency makes are many individuals or groups. the situation worse. This separa- In fact, not all international tion creates more prejudice and students are even Asian; some distrust while blocking access to come from Kenya, the United various suicide prevention ser- Arab Emirates or France. vices. However, because people are

Editorial Board

Staff

EDITOR IN CHIEF Brian Donovan MANAGING EDITOR Hakeem Montes ONLINE EDITOR Andrew O’Connor-Watts NEWS EDITOR Brian Donovan OPINIONS EDITOR John Kesler SPORTS EDITOR Tom Rizza ARTS & FEATURES EDITOR Christa Balingit PHOTO CHIEF Mike Alfieri ADVERTISING MANAGER Yunhee Roh PUZZLES & GAMES EDITOR Aidan Herrick COPY EDITORS Raneem Taleb-Agha, Tim Khousnoutdinov DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Alex Brendel

STAFF WRITERS Gabriel Agurcia, Pablo Caballero, Brandon Kersis, Millie McCord, Melissa Natividad, Chloe Quinones-Crosby, Lorena Rojas, Ashley Rose PHOTOGRAPHERS Sara Berkson, Karin Jensen DESIGNERS Kellyn Borst, Jack Dillon SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Danielle Barcena, Sean Wilkey INSTRUCTIONAL LAB COORDINATOR Ann Stenmark ADVISER Mary Mazzocco

perceived to represent the entire country they’re from, international students are often misunderstood. There are various backgrounds to them depending on their ethnicity, their level of education and so on. This is similar to how Americans can be characterized by several factors such as financial and educational backgrounds. In other words, there is a possibility that the international students in community colleges are less motivated than those in a prestigious university or viceversa, just like Americans. Americans should take note not to assume that international students from Korea or China are the same, nor should they assume that international students studying at Harvard or a community college are the same. While they have the same visa status, international students are very different from each other and so they should have specialized attention and care along with a greater understanding of who they are, where they come from and what all that means.

Contact YUNHEE ROH at yroh@TheInquirerOnline.com

THE INQUIRER Diablo Valley College 321 Golf Club Road, H-102 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 The Inquirer is published Thursday mornings during the school year by the journalism students of Diablo Valley College. All unsigned articles appearing on the opinions page are editorials and reflect a two-thirds majority opinion of the editorial staff. All signed columns and cartoons are the opinions of the writer or artists and not necessarily those of The Inquirer, Diablo Valley College or Contra Costa Community College District.

• Phone: 925.685.1230 ext. 2313 • Fax: 925.681.3045 • Email: inquirer@dvc.edu • Website: www.TheInquirerOnline.com • Printed Every Two Weeks •

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

Shootings show racist double standard

ANDREW Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNOR WATTS Online editor

Institutional racism is still alive and well in the American legal system. Former police officer Howard Morgan was driving home from work as a security guard in northern Chicago when he was pulled over by the CPD for going the wrong way down a oneway street. A gun battle ensued in which Morgan received 28 gunshots to the torso, seven in the front and 21 in the back. Miraculously, he survived. The officers who opened fire on Morgan claim Morgan was the one who initiated the shootout and charged him with discharging a firearm. Even though the jury found Morgan not guilty, that was not enough for the officers involved. First-degree murder charges were then brought against Morgan. This occurred in direct violation of the Constitution, specifically double jeopardy laws which make it illegal to charge someone with the same or similar crime after an acquittal or conviction. According to a Huffington Post article, the jury found Morgan guilty of attempted murder. However, Morganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s van was destroyed before conducting forensic analysis, Morgan was never

tested for gun shot residue and the bullet-proof vest worn by one of the officers who allegedly took a bullet was never produced for the jury. Morganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney said it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;unconstitutionalâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;improperâ&#x20AC;? for Morgan to be tried again as it violates double jeopardy laws, something the second jury was not allowed to hear. There is a racial component to the story as Howard Morgan is black and the four officers who shot him are white. Morgan, 61, was found guilty in early April and faces 40 years in prison. Another incident of this nature occured in November 2011, with the murder of Marine veteran Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., 68, by police officers responding to a perceived medical emergency. According to the Huffington Post, medical alert system operators responded to a distress signal from Chamberlainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emergency pendant, which was accidentally triggered while he was asleep. After there was no initial response from Chamberlain, the police were notified, as is standard procedure. When Chamberlain awoke and police were outside his door, he responded making it clear he was not in danger and can be heard saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Please leave me alone. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m 68 with a heart condition, why are you doing this? Can you please leave me alone.â&#x20AC;? One of the officers allegedly yelled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give a fâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;k, n----r, open the door!â&#x20AC;? Audio and video recording

which has not been released to the public allegedly shows Chamberlain in only his underwear as officers break down the door. The officers then shot Chamberlain with a taser, a beanbag shotgun, and eventually twice in the chest with live ammo using the excuse that he had a knife and a hatchet. He died on the scene. Only after evidence surfaced showing that the officers â&#x20AC;&#x153;may have used racial epithetsâ&#x20AC;? was there any investigation into the veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s death. It was only at the beginning of April that the White Plains Police Department released the name of the officer who shot Chamberlain. It is uncertain as to whether or not the audio and video recordings will be permissible in the Grand Jury investigation of the shootings. There is a racial double standard when it comes to AfricanAmericans and the criminal justice system which places more value on the lives of affluent Caucasians than anyone not meeting those criteria. This double standard is one many of us would like to believe is no longer present since the days of the Civil Rights movements, but tragically, this is not the case. There are too many examples of similar incidents to name, but some of them include the murders of RaMarley Graham, Kendrec McDade, Jordan Miles and Alan Blueford in Oakland.

not as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;bookâ&#x20AC;? but instead as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the thing you pull off the shelf that has paper in it.â&#x20AC;? While Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spent the last 75 words whining, I would be lying if I said I would look back at my entire DVC experience fondly. But was it a good idea to come here? Hell yes. In the grand scheme of things, community college was a sound financial move for my family to make. During this semester, I took 13 units, which came out to $468 in tuition. I should note that I have no financial aid According to UC Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; website, the winter and spring quarters (which come out to be roughly a month longer than the spring semester at DVC) have an estimated tuition of $9,240. This is almost 20 times what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m paying now. Not only that but the quality of the professors between universities and DVC is almost moot. According to Rate My Professor (which Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll admit is really subjec-

tive and probably not indicative of objective quality), DVCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s average score for a professor is 3.37 out of 5. Another school with this average? UC Berkeley. UC Davis ranks barely any higher with a 3.4. Most of the professors Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taken classes with at DVC were extremely knowledgeable in their field of expertise and excellent at teaching. A lot of them were difficult but it was ultimately rewarding. In the end, I am sad that I missed out on some of the experiences you get at a university such as dorm life and the community that follows. Still, my academic experience was as good as it would have been in a university and was several thousand dollars cheaper. So donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be like me and dwell on the negative. Make something positive out of DVC.

Contact ANDREW Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNOR WATTS at aoconnorwatts@ TheInquirerOnline.com

A cheap but bumpy road

JOHN KESLER Opinions editor

DVC, like life, is what you make it. Sadly, I made it a misery. I started DVC immediately after high school and have spent three years here. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m transferring to UC Davis after this semester and many other students are leaving for wherever. However, many more are remaining here and us transfer students will be replaced in the fall by incoming freshmen. As for me, it hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been the best three years and I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say that I will miss all of it. For one, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been in a bad mood almost the entire time Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been here. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also heard some really stupid statements at DVC: a year ago I heard a student refer to a book

Contact JOHN KESLER at jkesler@TheInquirerOnline.com

Violence in prisons does not serve society CHRISTA BALINGIT Arts & Features editor

While people are often sent to jail for committing inhumane acts, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow the prison systems to treat inmates in an inhumane manner. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Village Voiceâ&#x20AC;? reported about out-of-control violence that was taking place at Rikers Island, which is New York Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main jail complex. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Voiceâ&#x20AC;? wrote that â&#x20AC;&#x153;violence at Rikers, which was not only condoned but also promoted hail officials in a disturbing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fight clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pitted inmates against one another.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Voiceâ&#x20AC;? wrote a similar story four years ago and was promised that the problem had stopped, only to find years later that it never went away. The practice is known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Program.â&#x20AC;? The Voice said that the Program allowed â&#x20AC;&#x153;guards to deputize inmates, often in a teen jail, and pitted them against one another in fights as a way to keep

order and extort them for phone, from their unhealthy lifestyle and food, and television privileges.â&#x20AC;? environment while hoping they These fights go past an inmate will come away from their senjumping another. These fights can tence a less violent person. contain an inmate getting beaten, This type of â&#x20AC;&#x153;fight clubâ&#x20AC;? that slashed or even killed. is happening in the prison makes According to â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Voice,â&#x20AC;? 18- sure no progress is made. year-old Christopher Robinson The idea that our prison guards was beaten to death by other teen not only stand by, but encourage, inmates while the guards looked inmates to participate in this kind the other way. of brutal fighting is apA lot of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Regardless of palling. At this point, the people can redifference between inact differently their crimes, the mates and prison guards to this story. idea of sending is a small one. Some will The inmates actually say that the in- prisoners to jail acted out in violence, mates are only becomes point- the prison guards just getting what watch and probe others less if they are to do it. they deserve, that sympathy These fights only living the same cause for people that the inmates to because harm to lifestyle inside come more violent and others should even smarter about how the walls as be limited. to go about it. Regardless Four years ago this they did on the of their crimes, incident was said to be outside.â&#x20AC;? the idea of solved. I really hope sending them that this time around it to jail becomes pointless if the is taken more seriously. inmates are living the same lifestyle inside the walls as they did on the outside. The idea of placing someone Contact CHRISTA BALINGIT at in jail is to not only remove them cbalingit@TheInquirerOnline. from society but to separate them com Advertisement

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Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

Arts & Features

DVC graduate plans to return as a mentor

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

She became involved with the Puente program, which is open to all students but primarily helps Mexican American/Latino students transfer to four year universities. Joann Martinez entered DVC in 2008 as a high “The Puente program really helped me stay school dropout, a mother with three kids and no grounded,” Martinez said. “They helped me stay idea on how the college system worked. sane and really gave me support and encourageFour years later, Martinez is graduating from the ment.” University of San Francisco with a degree in OrgaShe also found solace in her teachers. nizational Behavior and Leadership. Dr. Barbara Hamm, who taught Martinez in an She transferred from DVC to USF in 2010, but English 116 course in 2009, helped Martinez tap still remembers the great help, encouragement and into her love for writing. inspiration she needed from the staff at DVC. “I would read novels in her class “When I was younger, I didn’t and something just sparked,” Marthink education was an option tinez said. “She helped remind me for me,” Martinez said. “No one how much I loved writing myself. in my family really emphasized I forgot the simple things that it. When I was younger, I strugbrought me joy and writing was gled with the whole concept of one of them.” school.” Hamm, who remembers MarHer mother overdosed on tinez clearly, said Martinez was a drugs when she was younger and model student. her father was in prison most of “If Joann missed class, you her life. knew the sky must have fallen,” Martinez dropped out of Hamm said. “I know she was havschool and had two kids by the ing car trouble at the time, but she time she was 18. did everything she could to make It wouldn’t be until her late sure she was in the classroom.” 20’s that Martinez would even Hamm also said it’s been three consider school. years since she’s taught Martinez It all started when she picked but she still hasn’t forgotten her. up a DVC catalog and began “Her discipline, drive and to read the description of the Courtesy of Joann Martinez determination was unbelievclasses. able,” Hamm said. “Joann was “I saw some of the classes so tender-hearted. You could they were offering,” Martinez said. “I see the ambition when you looked realized that a lot of the classes were at her. You knew she was going to things that I found interesting and I succeed.” thought I could do. At first I wanted Leslie Mills, Judy Walters, Dr. to be a dietician but then I became inBarbara Hamm and Maria Dorado terested in being a social worker and are just a few who helped Martinez counseling. I jumped so much while I turn her life around. was at DVC.” “All it took was for someone to Martinez started off ambitious, taksincerely and genuinely believe in ~Dr. Barbara Hamm ing 16 units her very first semester. me,” Martinez said. “These people “Finishing school was my dream,” did.” Martinez said. “I wanted to be an example for my Now that she is graduating from USF, Martinez kids. I wanted to show them that education is pos- plans to come back to DVC as a mentor in the sible if you really want it.” Puente program. During her second semester at DVC, Martinez “I owe my transferring to the Puente program,” found herself struggling. Martinez said. “I have always had almost everyBoth she and her husband had been laid off thing taken away from me. No one can take away from their jobs and she found herself having to my education.” move out of her home. The day after she graduates, Martinez also plans They spent a few days in their van until moving to write a book that documents her experiences. in with family members. Martinez recently sent Hamm a thank you e-mail During this time, Martinez continued to go to and a copy of her graduation announcement. school. “I felt so gratified,” Hamm said. “I felt imWhile Martinez was grateful to have a place to mensely gratified that my efforts have borne fruit stay, the family of five had to live in one room. and this person who had such odds to go against Martinez said that she would have to go outside didn’t let it stop her.” and study in her van just to be able to concentrate. While going through personal hardships, Martinez was able to find solace and encouragement Contact CHRISTA BALINGIT at school. at cbalingit@TheInquirerOnline.com

CHRISTA BALINGIT Arts & Features editor

“Her discipline, drive and determination was unbelievable.”

Courtesy of Mexican Summer Records

New album reminds that simple is “Best” JOHN KESLER Opinions editor

Sometimes the simplest things in life are the best. “The Only Place” by Best Coast is one of those things. The second album by Best Coast pairs duo Bethany Cosentino (who sings, plays guitar and writes the songs) and Bobb Bruno (who plays everything else) with producer Jon Brion. The results were successful. The cover of “The Only Place” features a grizzly bear hugging the state of California as though it were a surfboard. The only way it could be more Californian is if the bear had long hair and was saying “hella” while eating some In-N-Out. “Californian” is also a very fitting description for Best Coast’s music as it is sunny, lazy and very lighthearted. Cosentino affirms every stereotype of Californians with the title track, whose hook features the lines, “We’ve got the ocean, got the babes, got the sun, we’ve got the waves, this is the only place for me.” The prime appeal of the album is very simple: Cosentino is a strong writer capable of writing

songs of love and longing that are devoid of any sort of irony or schmaltz. Almost all of the songs are about being with someone or being without. While she doesn’t attempt anything with the lyrics beyond simple story-telling or descriptions of romance, they still work. “Up All Night,” the closer (and the only song to pass the four minute mark) features a lonely Cosentino singing, “I want to see you forever and ever” over a set of strings, the only non-guitar melody to appear on the album. “Up All Night” works because of how well Cosentino conveys the loneliness inherent in the lyrics through the instrumentation and word choice. Her vocals, while strong throughout, are also exceptional here. Cosentino’s vocal performance as well as the bright and twee guitar work back up the wide-eyed optimism present in the lyrics to the point where this album could have been conceived in 1962. Brion’s production is also one of the album’s strengths. Everything is extremely well recorded and mixed; Cosentino’s clear vocals are right in the fore-

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ground, thus taking away any sort of debate as to what she is singing about. At 35 minutes, “The Only Place” does not overstay its welcome at all. Most of the songs are shorter than average at around three minutes in length which fits the early 60s vibe of the album. If the album has any sort of flaw, its that most of the songs blend together into one 35 minute whole. Since every song is structurally the same (Cosentino singing over a guitar-led melody), nothing really stands out. I would easily recommend “The Only Place,” especially now since summer is coming. It proves that sometimes, you don’t need to be deep or edgy to produce good music.

Contact JOHN KESLER at jkesler@TheInquirerOnline. com

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Arts & Features

Thursday, May 17 - Friday, May 25, 2012

The Inquirer - Diablo Valley College

AIDAN HERRICK / The Inquirer

Chef Paul John Bernhardt, far left, is one of the two instructors in the culinary program. He has spent 20 years in the DVC kitchen teaching culinary students.

Culinary program offers mastery table for being one of the few community colleges with American Culinary Federation (ACF) certification, a very big deal in the culinary fered begin at 6:30 a.m., though it world. isn’t unusual for students and chefs ACF certification, according their to begin working as early as 5:30 website, means that DVC has “dema.m. onstrated skill, knowledge and proThe earliest class is purchasing fessionalism,” and “recognizes the and receiving, where students learn importance of high standards for how to buy and organize ingredi- food preparation.” ents. “It has high standards despite its They both hold classes through- community college limitations,” says out the day in the demonstration student Salem Zahiri, who has been room just off the side of the caf- in the program for over a year. eteria, one commanding the kitchen The bakery is relatively calm comwhile the other teaches. pared to the kitchen, and although Chef Paul’s lectures seamlessly it’s still crammed with students, evweave together stories from his eryone keeping furiously busy, the life, school and air seems a bit calmer. kitchen politics, Chef Chris is perhaps and lessons for “It’s more realis- the source of this tranquilculinary sur- tic, what we deal ity, as he goes about his vival. tasks with a whistle that with here.” His students he’s earned in his 22 years appreciate his at DVC. ~Julie Burk lessons. In the Norseman ResCulinary student These stutaurant next to the cafetedents are the ria, culinary students work ones that are hard to please and serve responsible for customers and learn how all the fresh food on campus. to manage and wait a restaurant The express line, the bakery, the professionally and effectively. Norseman Restauraunt and the outThe walls are lined with eager side grill are all a part of culinary students in white shirts and black classes, the food readily available for pants, waiting patiently for hungry purchase by all students being the customers. result. With a few exceptions, like the “I enjoy what I’m doing here. I relatively new rotating oven, equipenjoy what I do,” says student Vic- ment in the kitchen and the bakery tor Ilog, who has been in the pro- is behind the technological curve. gram for a year and hopes to be a Several students say that it prevegetable cook. pares them to deal better with proDVC’s culinary program is no-

AIDAN HERRICK Staff writer

Those hoping to enter the culinary program will find that they will learn more than just facts about food. In the mass of people that fill the kitchen, every DVC culinary student has a place and a task, performing with vigor and purpose and still talking to fellow students around them about food, school and life. Each student has a station they’ve been assigned to for the week, the orders being taped to the wall and nearly untranslatable by laymen. Each station is broken down into separate tasks, all of which a student is expected to perform and master by the time the week is up. The kitchen reacts and responds to “Chef Paul”, as his students call him, whose voice booms with authority from his 40-plus years of experience, 20 of which have been spent in the kitchens at DVC. DVC offers three different culinary certifications: culinary arts, baking and restaurant management, with nearly 250 culinary students currently enrolled and preparing what you eat. The kitchen is under the watchful eyes of Executive Chef Paul and Chef Brian, both eager to impart their knowledge. Chef Brian has been with the DVC program since 2002. The students move quickly and calmly, their minds impressively sharp for how early it is. The earliest culinary courses of-

AIDAN HERRICK / The Inquirer

Three culinary students cook on the outside grill, which was a feature added only two semesters ago for students. fessional kitchens after they graduate. “It’s more realistic, what we deal with here,” says Julie Burk, a student affectionately dubbed the ‘culinary mom’ for her years of experience and willingness to aid fellow students. “Cooking is a passion. You either love it, or you don’t,” says culinary program alumnus Christian Pulido, who is often invited back on campus for various events at DVC. At the end of the lunch rush, things begin to unwind, but they do not slow down. The race to build everything up has now transmuted into a race to tear it all down.

The outside grill (a feature for two semesters now) and the express line in the cafeteria both need to be torn down and stored, dozens of pans need to be washed, and everything must be in its proper place. By 2 p.m. the kitchen looks like no one was ever there. Later in the afternoon, a new wave of students will show up to repeat the process into the night. “It’s a way of making people happy,” said Jorden K. Graham, student and president of the culinary club. “Food has always been a part of me.” Contact AIDAN HERRICK at aherrick@TheInquirerOnline.com

Corn slaw: a must for Memorial Day weekend DANIELLE BARCENA Senior staff writer

Warm weather has finally started to consistently fill the days and it can only mean one thing – that barbecue season is right around the corner. An original side dish to share during barbecue season can really satisfy a warm weather appetite, which makes this upcoming Memorial Day the perfect time to revamp traditional coleslaw with corn slaw. Coleslaw is often served at picnics and barbecues and is usually made from cabbage covered in a creamy dressing. Corn slaw is fun because it is unexpected and corn may be more palatable to your guests and can make any barbecue meal more memorable. The “official” kick-off date for the barbecue season has become commonly associated with the Memorial Day holiday, speculatively because of a correlation with the end of the school year. Memorial Day “commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service,” according to the United State Department of Veteran Affairs website. Just as many holidays have become distanced from the ideals planted at their inception, a Memorial Day barbecue may seem to be a trite way to remember a veteran who has passed, but may actually be a helpful way to cope with grief. One task of the grieving process is to “find ways to remember,” according to the Federal Occupational Health website. They also suggest that talking with others and eating well can be helpful as well. What better way to get people talking than to impress them with a dish that they will never forget - corn slaw! This dish is an easy side to make that will satisfy the crowd with its complex tastes. Traditional coleslaw gets a boost with

a new take. Corn slaw is easy to make and keeps well in the refrigerator, so it can be made the night before a barbecue or potluck. A few useful tips can help you become a corn slaw master. First, it is important that the onion does not cook for too long or else it will lose the nice deep red-purple color that adds depth to the dish. Next, save yourself some cooling time by placing the baking sheet or plate in the freezer before you prep your ingredients so that it will be cold ahead of time. Third, the final mixing of all ingredients can be done in the Tupperware or serving dish you will be using instead of a mixing bowl, giving you one less dish to wash. Ingredients: 1 ¼ c corn; 1 c chopped cabbage; ½ c red bell pepper; 1/3 MIKE ALFIERI/ The Inquirer red onion; 1/3 c sour cream; ¼ c sugar; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp lime juice; salt, pepper, and chili powder to The corn slaw shown in its finished state is a great taste

accompaning side to any summer meal.

Directions: Over medium heat, warm a large, oiled frying pan Add frozen corn. If you are using fresh corn, then add after the peppers so that the corn will stay firm and will not have a chance to get soggy. Dice the red peppers and add to the pan. Let the peppers sizzle while you prep the onion. Dice the red onion and then add to the pan. Raise the heat to high and wait for the red onions to blacken, which will add some color and flavor for a nice barbecue-like effect. Transfer and spread out on a large plate or a baking sheet

to cool. Chop up the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl or in your Tupperware mix together chopped cabbage, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, sugar, chili powder, salt and pepper. Combine the cooled corn, pepper and onion to the cabbage mixture and enjoy!

Contact DANIELLE BARCENA at dbarcena@TheInquirerOnline.com