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F.Y.I. Important Dates April is National PoetryMonth April 26 Last day to withdraw from full-term classes with a “W“ on your transcript. May 24 Finals week, check when your exams are schedualed. May 24 Last day of instruction and graduation.
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Brentwood upgrade set back Completion of science lab delayed a year By JOSEPH DELANO Staff Writer
The Brentwood Center’s new Biology/Physics lab, which was slated to open in 2013, has been delayed because the property that is to be used is on land leased from Brentwood. “The lab project was originally projected to be completed this Summer for the Fall 2013 semester,” said Director, Title II HSI STEM Grant Ryan Pedersen but, “we encountered an issue concerning the construction of a college facility on property that is leased from the city of Brentwood… it has caused a delay in the project.” The lab is now expected to
be open in either Spring or Fall of 2014 pending approval from the Division of the State Architect. The DSA is the government entity that oversees the construction of K-12 schools as well as community colleges. The lab is being funded by a $4.25 million HSI Grant that was awarded to LMC in 2011. The grant, entitled STEM Transfer Velocidad, was awarded to LMC in 2011 as part of the Hispanic Serving Institution Grant program, and focuses on Science, technology, engineering and Mathematics. To qualify for an HSI grant, at least a 25 percent of an institution’s student body must
be Hispanic. LMC crossed that mark in 2005, said Rosa Armendariz, project director for the HSI grant, adding that LMC’s enrollment is now 32 percent Hispanic. The goal of the STEM grant is to improve the transfer rate of students at LMC. “There is not the capability for a full lab experience currently at the Brentwood campus, said Pedersen. By building the lab, LMC can offer additional Biology courses — including: BIOSC-020 Principles of Biology: Cellular Processes, and BIOSC-021 Principles of Biology: Organismal — at the Brentwood Campus,
said Jancy Rickman, co-chair of the Science Department. Offering these classes will allow students to complete the Biological Science degree requirements without having to commute to Pittsburg. The lab will be constructed at the current location in Brentwood. There will also be a need for the college to lease more space on location for the expansion. “We are very excited,” said Professor of Biological Sciences Sharon Wellbrook, adding that Danielle Liubicich, also co-chair of the science depar tment and professor of Biological See LAB, page 6
“We encountered an issue concerning the construction of a college facility on property that is leased from the city.” — Ryan Pederson
Honors Social Committee is hosting LMC’s Minuteto-Win-It competition. The competition is based of the game show and will consist of various games in which two-person teams will compete for the grand prize of two Schwinn Mountain bikes. The first-runner up team will receive two Razor scooters. All participants will receive other free goodies. Proceeds of the event will go toward the Veteran’s Campaign Scholarship Foundation. Early team registration costs $6 per team and is due Friday, April 26. On-site registration will be $10 per team. Form more information contact Byron Montilla 522-1921
Writing competition LMC’s 13th annual Outstanding Writing Contest will take place Monday, April 29 by 5 p.m. in the Center for Academic Support. LMC Students are eligible for this contest. The winner of the grand prize will receive a $50 gift certificate and the President’s parking space for one week. Category prizes include $25 gift certificates. For more details students can go to the CO-300.
Get creative with Anime Cosplay and prop workshops will be hosted by Anime Unlimited on Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 pm in MA-204. Those interested in cosplay or in creating props are encouraged to attend this workshop. There will be tons of tips and ideas on how to begin the making of your character. For more information contact Sketch Choice or Stephen Charlton 727-7802.
Students adapt to confusion By TAMARA L. SEWARD Staff Writer
Spring semester star ted with a little more bang than some students bargained for. As they tried to enter the College Complex building from the front quad they were greeted with barriers and an orange sign with a black arrow pointing to the right saying, “Detour Access to College Complex.” Ernesto Ramirez, Capitol Projects Manager, suggests students become familiar with routes around the construction. “Our hope is the noisiest part of construction will be done while nobody is on campus being disturbed.” said Senior Dean of Students, Gail Newman. The focus of the construction is remodeling of portions of the third and fourth floors in the College Complex with the final goal of creating a one-stop Student Services Center. All services except Student Life will
be housed in the new center. “A computer kiosk will be in the middle of the room with staff on hand to help future students enroll at LMC,” Newman said. According to Dr. Kevin Horan, LMC’s vice president, “The remodel project included numerous enhancements to make the offices and services accessible to students.” The new center will house services in such a way they will work together as they should. For example, registration will be situated near financial aid, The Welcome Center near Counseling so entering students can speak with a counselor about what classes they should take. “The new center will be more logically arranged for more convenience to students and faculty,” Newman said. “We envision a Success Center with transfer, career, and counseling all in one.” Currently services such
Construction workers work together to remodel the interier of the former admissions and records, and nursing areas on the third floor.
as financial aid, counseling, and registration are scattered across campus during construction. Students certainly get their exercise as they sprint around campus trying not to be late for class. Ramirez thinks that the first two to three weeks students were learning the new routes around the construction, but have since adapted well. Newman described the shuffling of staff and offices around campus for the construction project as using creativity while still attempting to keep as much convenience as possible to students and faculty.
“When dealing with renovations there are always unforeseen issues that arise we have to deal with but nothing that is affecting students.” Ramirez said, “We know that the new Student Services Center will be well worth the impact to the students during construction.” When construction is complete the outside of the College Complex building will match the exteriors of the new math, science and library buildings. “The current Student Ser vices remodel phase of the project, not including the constr uction costs related to temporary swing space for
See ADAPT, page 6
Library upholds privacy
Success ceremony Students who are receiving a scholarship or transferring to a 4-year college are invited to participate and to be honored at the Student Success Ceremony. The event will take place Friday May 10 at 3 p.m. in the Recital Hall. To RSVP go to www.losmedanos./ edu/success. For more information contact Ashley Adams at 4392181 Ext: 3266 or email aadams@losmedanos. edu.
Photos by Irvin Trigueros
By CHARLES POWELL Staff Writer
Photo by Irvin Trigueros
Robert McCune uses Library computers Wednesday to print out his homwork.
The Los Medanos College Library acts as a depository of knowledge storing a host of printed words and offering visitors seats on the information super highway. What it does not retain is a lot of information on its patrons according to Technical Services Librarian Christine Park and only share what they have with the person involved. In an age of “big data” where a visit to a website can prompt tailored advertising during a later web search and every car driven across the golden gate bridge has its license plate photographed, Park said the library’s own record keeping system is purposefully designed, so records are only kept on what is currently being borrowed. She explained even if someone wanted to know what they checked
out in the past the staff would not be able to tell them because once an item is returned it is cleared from the system. Park added the staff also does not monitor what is being looked up digitally so patron privacy is maintained on the computers allowing for the free search of information on them as well. She said the one limitation material accessed does have to be accordance with the Contra Costa Community College District Board Policy 5030, which requires users respect the rights of others and they observe all pertinent laws. Many of those who make use of the library’s resources are probably unaware of the pains taken to keep what they learn about confidential. For some, like LMC student Kenzie McMillan, it See BOOKS, page 6
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“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” — Henry David Thoreau
Madeline Henderson
Dishan Jones
MAD MAXX
GHOST WRITER
Gun violence still hurting us
Close but yet still so far
When I heard about the Boston bombing, I started to think about this song that came out in the 70s called “What’s going on.” The song was written and sung by the late great Marvin Gaye. The song spoke of what was happening in the era of the 70s. We had the Vietnam war, racial riots, the beginning of the homeless situations and the shooting incidents of two great Afro-American civil-rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Medgar Evers. There was violence but not as bad as it is now. A person did not hear about a lot of gun violence or bombings where there is a crowd of people together to watch an event that is going on. I don’t feel comfortable about going to places or events that could attract someone who is not in their right mind and decides to kill a few innocent people. It is terrible to be a person in the wrong place at the wrong time. The year of 2012 there was 66 mass murders throughout the country. The worst mass murder incident was the Sandy Hook Elementary school where the lives of 21 precious little five and six year olds were killed and seven teachers lost their lives too. It was a sad story and when ever I think about what happen at that school it still brings tears to my eyes because they were so young and was just starting school and now they will never know what it is to have an education because of gun violence. President Obama was very disappointed about the bill involving stricter background checks on people purchasing guns did not pass. The parents of the children were hurt to think that there were people that were not concerned about the lives of children and others. I also was upset about the verdict because this means if a person is dismissed from their job and they are angry about it so they go and buy a gun that same day and returns to their job and kills people who are completely innocent. I hope that those who had voted against the measure to have stricter gun laws to understand that they could have helped to prevent a gun from being in the hands of the wrong person. It seems strange for a person to wake up one day and decide to kill a person or multiple people at a mall, a school, or a store and a church. Yes even at church, the one place where many believe that they may seek refuge from the ugliness of our society for a peace of mind has been tainted by gun violence. I read about a couple of situations at churches. A man walked in a church up to the pulpit where a preacher was speaking and shot him in front of his congregation and another incident where a man shot his estranged wife as she was getting out of the car to go into church. Now this is what makes a person wonder what is going on in our society. The one place we thought of being safe along with our homes is no longer respected as being holy. The home invasions are becoming violent now too where we are not even safe in our homes. I have been watching the program Investigated Discovery on television where it shows real cases of gun violence. Some of the cases I try to analyze why the person used a gun to solve their situation. I feel when a person points a gun at someone it is like they control the situation and it is up to them if the person lives or dies. It is like a power trip that gives them a high. Some situations you have no choice especially when comes to protecting your life. The hardest tragedy a family has to face is a loss of a loved one to gun violence. It is a tragedy that will take a long time to overcome. It is really hard for a family to not know who harmed their loved one and to not understand why. But because of the gun laws remaining as they are, if we don’t try to change them there will be many more innocent people dying from gun violence.
My life changed for the better in 2010 when I decided to go back to school to pursue a degree in recording arts. Both nervous and excited, I took a step that led me on an academic and social odyssey that I’ll never forget. Well, now here I am quickly advancing towards the end of my journey at Los Medanos College. I’ve followed my educational plan, completed my courses for my major, and kept up with the frequent meetings between my counselor and I. And, up until this point, I’d believed that I was on the path to completing my general ed requirements necessary for graduation. However, after filling out my application for graduation in the middle of March, surprisingly, I was denied. Apparently, if a student is on the IGETC path, there exists a stipulation requiring that student have at least three units of a foreign language in order to graduate. I, of course, was not aware of this or I would have complied two semesters ago. Apparently, even with our relentless examination of my transcripts and my IGETC requirements, my counselor and I never noticed this. And, even if it would’ve came up in one of our sessions, we would have both felt secure knowing that I’d taken two semesters of Swahili at Fresno City College in 1997. Well, unfortunately for me, IGETC didn’t approve Swahili for their program until 2007 rendering those two semesters futile to my scholastic progress. Therefore, I was forced to file for petition to walk and register for a foreign language in the summer session. But you have to wonder, how does an institution advocating for successful transfers and graduates allow such a debacle and who exactly is to blame? Furthermore, how many other students are experiencing the same or similar circumstances? Just as any other student whose put in the proper amount of work, time, energy, and effort I’m ready to move on to the next level. Of course, I’ve been on my journey for the better half of three years, so one summer session won’t kill me. Besides, summer school is only six weeks right? Wrong. The principle matter is that this inconvenience is as irritating as a mosquito or fly hovering over your ear during a good dream. It’s annoying and I perceive this as another minor obstacle or, even more so, a bothersome distraction. I’ve become accustomed to all types of hindrances and diversions and recently I’ve realized not to deal with them but ignore them and move forward, which is how I plan to proceed. So, as a precaution, with no financial assistance because I’ve already applied for it through the UC system, I’ve scheduled my class for summer session and filed all the necessary papers. I’m currently awaiting the decision on my petition to walk and informing my family members that nothing is set in stone, quite yet. But what is even more disturbing is that my Swahili units may not be acceptable for transfer to the UC system. It’s a bit unnerving knowing that this type of situation can occur, has occurred, and probably will occur again. I propose we continue to encourage our LMC advisors to keep up the good work, but also, stay well informed and informative so as to help prevent, or at least limit, these types of situations from occurring to future projected graduates and transfer students. And, more importantly, just a few words to the wise: all students should be aware and stay fully informed about their academic status and progress because, as I’ve come to understand, no one will accept the responsibility if you happen to come up short, by no fault of your own, towards the end of your journey. They’ll simply say, “it’s out of their hands and there nothing we can do.” So take initiative and safeguard your scholastic success!
Editorial
Cartoon by Karl Compton
Free speech for everyone
T
he Experience staff is a firm believer in the First Amendment, the right of the press, of free speech, the right to peacefully assemble and the freedom of religion. We support and encourage public dialogue especially when it pertains to controversial social issues. Controversy should lead to conversation and ultimately acceptance of each other. The free exchange of ideas generates new thought that allows for growth, understanding and respect for points of view that we, as individuals, may not necessarily believe or agree with. We hope to be that platform for such ideas to be expressed freely without fear or ridicule and to carry the conversations that act as catalysts for change. Freedom of speech is a powerful tool and should be exercised with responsibility and respect. We do ask those who wish to write the Experience to limit letters to 300 to 400 words. If you would like to submit a column, it should be 600 to 700 words and be submitted with a photo of you. As a staff we decided to run the letter to the editor below in its entirety because we feel it is well written and supported by factual information we deemed important for our readers to know and ponder over.
Letter to the editor
Same-sex couples deserve equality DEAR EDITOR: As a practice, I do not respond to student editorials in the Experience, whether or not I agree with the opinions expressed. Freedom of speech is precious to me, as is the freedom to worship the God of one’s understanding. However, I will not remain silent about what I consider to be a distorted discussion of laws addressing same-sex marriage. I have a definite stake in the outcome of the current Supreme Court cases: I am in a 14-year relationship with a woman I love very much, and with whom I have entered into a meaningful long-term relationship that includes the raising of two children. We have tried to obtain marriage equality not once but twice: we were married by the city and county of San Francisco on Feb. 13, 2004 (which was struck down by the later that same year), and then we were state married by the city of Oakland on July 14, 2008. Therefore, we are one of the roughly 18,000 LGBTQ couples whose marriage is legally recognized by the state of California. I am not asking for anyone’s permission or approval of my relationship. I do not care what any member of any denomination of Christianity believes about the morality of my marriage. (Though I am curious, Mr. Chico – are you Episcopalian? Methodist? Catholic? Baptist? There are many denominations of Christianity, some of which are more enlightened about civil and legal equality than others). To compare my marriage, in any way, to rape and violence is ugly, offensive, and obviously inaccurate. My desire to marry and have the same legal recognition for my relationship as you might claim for your own is NOT the same as the “urge” to commit acts of violence. (And I urge you to really study the history of rape and sexual assault so you can move beyond your simplistic analysis of those crimes.) The United States is a secular nation, a nation that from its inception has attempted to maintain a separation of church (ANY church) and state. I am proud of that principle, as it entitles people of different religious beliefs and practices equal rights under the law. It guarantees that those who govern us cannot claim, “God told me so” as a valid reason to pass laws upon the citizenry. As a tax-paying citizen of these United States, I am entitled to the same legal and civil rights as any other member of this country, regardless of my
Voices
personal religious beliefs, or lack of the same. Within your chosen church, same-sex marriage may be a question of morality. Your choice to remain within a denomination that holds that view is your personal choice. Within the legislative bodies of this state and nation, however, same-sex marriage is not, and should not be, a religious issue. It is an issue of the denial of civil and legal equality for thousands of people across the country, in terms of the legal, financial, and civil privileges afforded by the government to those who can claim that term. Why is that important? Here are just a few of the many legal and financial benefits denied to LGBTQ people when our marriages are not validated by Federal law as marriages: Social Security benefits: Surviving spouse and surviving parent benefits are denied to gay and lesbian Americans because they cannot marry. Therefore, a lesbian couple that contributes the same amount to Social Security over their lifetime as a married heterosexual couple would receive drastically unequal benefits. Taxation: According to the HRC: “as of 1997 there were 179 tax provisions that took marital status into account.” That’s 179 different ways in which my family will either pay more in taxes, or receive fewer tax benefits due to the failure of the federal government to recognize my marriage. Some of the more onerous tax inequities involve the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Head of Household status provisions in federal tax law. Estate Tax is another large issue. In fact, it is the central issue of the case against DOMA. Taxation of retirement savings is another issue in which LGBTQ people face legal and financial inequity. Health and medical care: The Federal Family and Medical Leave Act would not cover my family since the federal government does not legally recognize our marriage. In addition, federal employees who have domestic partners are not covered under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). The Federal government is this country’s largest employer, and that employer currently discriminates against a significant group of its employees. In addition, under federal law, employers can opt out of providing COBRA benefits to domestic partners. Immigration law: American citizens in See EQUAL, page 6
LOS MEDANOS COLLEGE
Experience
Have you ever felt unsafe on campus? C
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“Were it left for me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” — Thomas Jefferson
Editor-in-Chief.................... PETER COSTANZA Perspectives Editor........... VANESSA FLORES
“Only at night I feel unsafe. Because, its usually prime time for people to get attacked.”
“Not really, depends on what time it is and where I am at on campus.” — Bryan Calderon
— Ariana Benitez
"Not really because I’m aware of my surroundings and not that many people here at LMC are friendly."
“I feel pretty safe on campus I don’t feel any sense of danger here at LMC.” — Daniel Kalmbach
“No I have never felt unsafe here at LMC but, mostly because I take day classes.” — Sara Meza
— Sherilyn Ylagan C h e ck
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“I don’t really feel unsafe. I stick to areas I already know with friendly people.” — Eric Cabral
Campus Editors ................... KELLIE McCOWN and TERESA DATAR Features Editor....................BRENDAN CROSS Sports Editor ................ DAKOTAH ZABROSKI Photo Editor ....................... IRVIN TRIGUEROS Web Editor.................................. JESUS CHICO Graphics Editor......................KARL COMPTON Video Editor................................. ERIC MARTIN The LMC Experience is published Fridays by the journalism program. The newspaper serves as a laboratory for journalism classes and as a First Amendment forum for campus communication. Opinions expressed in the Experience are solely those of the students and do not represent the views of the college.
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“It’s not the honor you take with you, but the heritage you leave behind.” — Branch Rickey
Newswatch LMC ♥ Africa Students present at Stanford The 6th Annual Honors Research Symposium will be hosted at Stanford University this year on Saturday, May 4. Students from the LMC Honors program will be presenting their research alongside with other students from Northern California community colleges. Registration for the symposium is now open and the deadline for registration is Friday, April 12. Registration fee is $25. The link for registration can be found on www.losmedanos.edu/honors/research. For more information, contact Honors Directors Jennifer Saito or Jeannine Stein.
Advisors to be awarded Hosted by the LMC Interclub Club Council, this year’s Advisor Appreciation Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 8 from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. All clubs are encouraged to participate and join planning committees for the event. This is an opportunity to recognize and thank club advisors for their efforts and support. For more information on how to get involved, contact Student Life Coordinator Ashley Adams or ICC Chair Teresa Datar.
Students show off their art
Students will be able to see their own art on display at the Los Medanos College Art Show being held from April 30 through May 16 in the Los Medano College Art Gallery located inside of the library. To be qualified to enter the art show, the work must have been completed during the current school year, June 1, 2012 to April 25, 2013. A reception will be held on May 9 from 4 p.m. to 7.
Raquel Collemane, (front left) Juliana Andrews, (center) and Brandi Bonner (right) dance the traditional congolist sensual dance while Tacuma King passes on the traditions of African drum playing to a young audience member at the UMOJA Scholars I ♥ Africa Celebration. The celebration held Friday, April 12 included history presentations on East, South, West, and North and Central Africa, performances of cultral song and dance, as wells as authentic African prepared food that included a history of it’s orgins. Photos by Ashling Doherty
Photo by Irvin Trigueros
MESA tutor Brian Berdiago goes over biochemistry concepts with Nazera Fazli.
MESA seeks students
The Mathematics, Engineering, Science and Achievement Program (MESA) is looking for students who are interested in graduating with degrees in science, engineering, and other math-based fields. MESA provides students with academic support, workshops and study sessions, tutors, transfer assistance, and scholarship opportunities, as well as possible internships with major companies like AT&T. Please contact Carol Hernandez in the Science Building, Room 211, or at 925-439-2181, ext. 3437.
DSPS looking for tutors The Disabled Students Program & Services (DSPS) is in need of volunteer writers and tutors. Student volunteers can receive perks such as early class registration. Those interested with extra time to spare are highly encouraged to share their time and talents with DSPS. For more information please contact Jenifer Garcia or the DSPS Center 925- 439-2181, ext 3133.
Students write for prizes Students will have until 5 p.m. Monday, April 29 to submit their entries into the annual Los Medanos College Outstanding Writing Contest. Categories are creative writing, expository, and arument and analysis writing. Any essay that was used during the Spring 2013 semester is elegible for submittence into the compitition. Winners will be annoiunced during the Stellar Awards Ceremony. To submit, students should remove their names and class information and attach an index card with their name, student ID, phone number, email, and what class the essay was for and send their submission to the Center for Academic Support.
Summer registration started
Students interested in taking classes over the summer are now able to register online through their student WebAdvisor. The Summer session runs for 6 weeks from June 17 to July 25. While not all classes offered during the fall and spring semesters are available during the summer, a majority of classes offered are CSU and UC transferable. For more information, log onto the LMC website at losmedanocollege.edu.
Sistah’s invite students to club
If you are intrigued with books by African American authors, deep discussions, eating out, networking, movies, smooth jazz events, helping the community, and traveling with good girlfriends, join the Sistah 2 Sistah Girlfriends Book Club. Meetings are on the fourth Saturday of each month. For more information about dates and locations, log-on to www.meetup.com/sistah-2-sistah-girlfriends-book-club or on facebook at www.facebook.com/sistah.reading
How to get news published
If you have an idea for a news or feature story, or would like to annouce a campus event in the Experience, please send your information to Editor In Chief Peter Costanza, LMC Journalism, 2700 E Leland Road, Pittsburg, or email it to pcostanza25@gmail.com. You can also drop it by in the Journalism Lab, Room CC3-301. Please make sure to give about two weeks lead time for items to be published. — compiled from press releases and staff reports
Puente brings students together Program builds friendships and offers support By ALEX DE SANTIAGO Staff Writer
“We stick together like a family,” Puente club member Brea Martinez said during LMC’S annual Club Day event held earlier this semester. Club members were nothing but smiles as they explained how their group focuses on both education at LMC as well as understanding the hardships in the Latino community, and works to send students out determined and ready to inspire change.
“It’s great because you take English 90 and 100 with the same course Instructor,” Puente President Daniela Martinez said during an interview as she briefly explained the advantages of being a member of the Puente program and how it can positively affect your success at LMC. The Puente Club is affiliated with the Puente program in which all Puente students take consecutive English classes with the same instructor. Martinez added that staying
with the same teacher benefits students so when a new semester of English starts they don’t have to worry about a change in instructional methods and can instead focus on learning new material. Puente now has 30 club members but they plan to keep growing. Teachers and classes are discussed at regular meetings,” held Tuesdays at 9 a.m. in Room CC2-222 said Martinez, adding that the main purposes are support. “The club’s main purpose
AGS active on campus
healthy
By NAILAH THOMPSON Staff Writer
Alpha Gamma Sigma, or AGS as it is often called, is LMC’s active Chapter of the California Community College Scholastic Honor Society. Its name is derived from the first letter of the Greek words, Arete, meaning excellence, Gnosis, meaning knowledge, and Sophrosyne, meaning wisdom, which makes a connection with the motto “add to good character, Knowledge and Judgment.” The purpose of AGS is to “foster, promote and recognize outstanding scholarship, encourage and provide opportunities for participation in community service activities, to recognize students attaining high scholastic records, make students more conscious of the advantage of high scholarship and to bring together students attaining high scholastic records for their mutual benefit”, according to its articles of incorporation. Alpha Gamma Sigma is currently involved in individual volunteer work at Loaves & Fishes- Feeding the hungry in Concord, tax help in Pittsburg, and selling items at LMC in a fundraising effort to benefit AGS. Vice president Kelsey Ballesteros encourages volunteering inside and outside the campus. See AGS, page 6
is to educate students academically as well as prepping them to inspire change in their community,” said Counselor Elizabeth Abril who explained the relationship between the Puente Club and the Puente Program. “The Puente Club is open to all students who are interested in networking with other student leaders on campus. Students are encouraged to be active, participating in both on campus and off campus community events,” she said. See PUENTE, page 6
lifestyles
Stay Fit - Safely!
HELPING YOU thrive
By William Lide, MD
P
laying sports, exercising and physical activities are great for your health, but they can lead to injuries if done incorrectly or if you push yourself too hard.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just starting to exercise here are some tips to help you ward off injuries: • • • • •
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Warm up: Stretch your arms and legs or take a light jog to loosen up your muscles. Warm muscles are less susceptible to strains, pulls and other injuries. Slow and steady: If you haven’t been exercising regularly, start out slow and gradually increase the frequency, duration and level of activity. Stay hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after your activity (especially on warm days) to ward off dehydration. Get into gear: Wear protective pads, mouth guards, helmets, gloves, and other equipment, if necessary. Also, protect your skin with sunscreen. “No pain, no gain?” Forget it: Pain is your body’s way of saying stop or slow down. If you experience pain or discomfort (more than the usual soreness after a workout) that doesn’t disappear after the activity, talk with your doctor. Mix it up: Varying your routine will reduce boredom, increase your skill level, and improve flexibility. Doing the same activity repeatedly increases the risk of an “overuse” injury.
Remember to consult your doctor before starting a new sport or exercise routine. For more information on sports and fitness injuries, go to the Kaiser Permanente Web site at www.kp.org/fitness. This article is proudly sponsored by Kaiser Permanente. William Lide, MD is a Physician Site Leader for tha Pleasanton Medical Offices.
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Laugh like a sailor
— Terrence Mann
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Music events
The Los Medanos College Music Department offers various performances. Some performers will be students, faculty and visiting performers. Many concerts are free or low cost, and are held in the Recital Hall. For more information, call 439-2181 ext. 3218. n Monday, April 29, 7:30-9 p.m. — LMC Guitar Conert. Admission is free. n Saturday, May 4, 7-10 p.m. — LMC Gospel Celebration Concert. Admission: At door $17, in advance $15 n Thursday, May 9, 7:30-9 p.m. — LMC String Ensemble Concert, Free admission
New play entertains By RATTANA KIM Staff Writer
As audience members strolled into the Little Theater, chatter fought with the upbeat music playing in the background. The opening night of The Cripple of Inishmaan, written by Martin McDonagh and directed by Reid Davis, was minutes away from captivating the audience. The lights dimmed and the music faded as fast as the audience’s murmurs. They were allowed a few last moments to soak up the sensational scenery before the actors stole the focus. The set was beautifully crafted and designed, in shades of blue and brown. The story takes place off the west coast of Ireland on Inishmaan in the Aran Islands, so the stage
“Movies will make you famous; Television will make you rich; But theater will make you good.”
Art show Photo by Irvin Trigueros
Mario Castillo scolds a shocked Claudia Vasquez during opening night of the new LMC performance of “The Cripple of Inishmaan” in the Little Theater. was cleverly designed to resemble an island. The floor between the set and front row was covered in a layer of sand with the bow of ship peeking out. The set on stage resembled a saloon with dark wooden floors and jars stacked on the shelves behind the counter. The play focuses on the Stor y of Cripple Billy, played by Konnor
Heredia, and opens with a scene of sisterly bickering between Kate and Eileen, played by Marina Ketchum and Miranda Ketchum. Fits of giggles and chuckles already started to erupt over the bickering, but the laughter did not end there. JohnnyPateenMike, played by Claudia Vasquez, stole nearly every scene she appeared in. From exuber-
ant entrances and over-exaggerated body language to his immense love for himself, laughter from the audience never ceased. “It’s one of those plays that you’re not sure if you should laugh,” Vasquez said, explaining that the witty jokes and dark humor dealt with sensitive issues, such as the mocking Cripple See PLAY, page 6
Goes above and ‘Beyond’ By BRENDAN CROSS Staff Writer
“The Place Beyond The Pines” is a drama directed by Derek Cianfrance, who previously directed “Blue Valentine,” t h a t stars Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, and Eva Mendes. This movie, from start to finish, is definitely the best film I’ve seen in a long while.
REVIEW
Photo courtesy of Rottentomatoes
Luke,played by Ryan Gosling, sits atop a motorcycle in his latest movie, “The Place Beyond The Pines.”
The story is not necessarily the most original, as it starts off with the average bad guy getting caught up in recklessness, but the way it tells the story is fascinating. Ryan Gosling, who plays Luke, is a troubled motorcyclist working at amusements parks around the country for money. He meets up with Eva Mendes, who plays Romina, with whom he had a past fling. He soon learns that
he has a child and decides to stay in town to take care of him. He eventually runs into some trouble and finds himself at the hands of rookie police officer Avery, played by Bradley Cooper. This movie is essentially divided into three, the first part deals with Luke’s story, then Avery’s story, then their respective children’s story as it all goes full circle and See PINES, page 6
The LMC Student Art Show will be open from Tuesday, April 30 to Thursday, May 16. The reception will be on Thursday May 2 from 4-6 p.m. All artwork is due the week prior during the 12:30-2:30 p.m. galler y hours, 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, and Wednesday, April 17. No work will be accepted after 6 p.m. on April 17.
Movies Just Released n “Pain & Gain” Unrated, Genre:
Action, Adventure
n “At Any Price” Rated R, Genre:
Drama n “The Big Wedding” Rated R, Genre: Comedy
Coming Soon
n “Iron Man 3” Rated PG-13, Genre: Action, Adventure, SciFi, Fantasy n “The Iceman” Rated R, Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Drama — Compiled by Brendan Cross
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2013
5
“You’ll never get ahead of anyone as long as you try to get even with him.”
— Lou Holtz
Stangs slide into fourth place
Photo by Irvin Trigueros
Jimmy Gardner (6) slides into second base against Yuba shortstop Michael Frantz in an attempt to break up a double play in Tuesday afternoon’s 7-6 loss.
After winning eight straight team goes on 3-6 bender By BRENDAN CROSS Staff Writer
The baseball season is winding down as the Mustangs looked to make their playoff push Tuesday in a home game against Yuba College but lost 7-6. Los Medanos College remains tied for fourth place in the Bay Valley division, but are still just a game out of being in second with
one to play. The scoring started immediately for Yuba as they touched up LMC starter James Cain for four runs in the first by way of six hits with all the runs being scored in the mist of a two-out rally. Cain settled in and fired three scoreless innings afterward, as LMC put up five runs on the board in the
third on Yuba starter Tim Zucco highlighted by a two-run single off the bat of Kelly Starnes. Yuba and LMC traded single runs in the fifth, but Yuba was able to tack on another two in the sixth giving them a lead they would not relinquish. Although Zucco was hit around early in the game, he also settled down and pitched a scoreless rest of the game
as he went the distance for his fourth win of the season. LMC Head Coach Anthony D’Albora talked about Cain’s rough inning. “I don’t think he necessarily made bad pitches, he had a lot of good pitches that were hit along with some tough infield hops. It was just one of those things where he couldn’t catch a break in the inning. He kept us in it for as
long as he could,” said D’Albora. In response to a playoff situation, D’Albora said, “We’re fighting for our lives a little bit, we’ve got to win and hope that somebody tells us that we get to keep playing next week.” The Mustangs must win their last game, and hope the teams above them in the standings all lose for a playoff chance.
42’s legacy lives on The impression that Jackie Robinson left particular, had major qualms with pursuing on the game of baseball is unprecedented. the talents of a black player, but, teams like The MLB every year celebrates his 1947 the Brooklyn Dodgers, were more open to breaking of the color barrier by wearing the idea and even scouted Negro leagues jerseys all with the number 42 on it. His players as possible players. Branch Rickey lore has even hit the big screen this year, was the Dodgers general manager and had as “42” was just released in theaters. interest in Robinson. He made an offer to Robinson was born January 31, 1919 in Robinson for what was about $600 a month, Cairo, Georgia as the youngest of five. He as Robinson was told to just turn the other attended John Muir High School and later cheek and look away at all the hatred and attended Pasadena Junior racism he would face. College where he was Later in 1945, Ricky a four-sport star, playeventually did sign the ing basketball, football, contract, and was put on baseball and running a minor league team of track. He graduated from the Dodgers, the MonPLAY BALL Pasadena in 1939 and treal Royals. The Negro went on to UCLA where leagues had a lot of talent he continued his complete dominance in the in players like Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, four aforementioned sports. 1942 saw a bit and Larry Doby. Paige is of course famous of change of pace from for Robinson as he for pitching a Major League game at the was drafted into the military. He stayed in age of 59 while Josh Gibson was one of the military until being discharged late in the best players in Negro league history, 1944 after serving as an army athletics coach. hitting about 800 home runs in the span of In 1945, the Kansas City Monarchs of- his career. The exact number of how many fered Robinson a contract offer to play in he hit is not known and he never did play in the Negro Leagues. He was disappointed the Major Leagues. Larry Doby was a very with the leagues lack of cohesion and respectable Major League player as he hit overall disorganization. He went on to try over .280 and over 250 home runs in his out for several major league teams, but race career, mostly with the Cleveland Indians. essentially prevented him from actually There was strife amongst some of the Negro See 42, page 6 making a big league club. The Red Sox, in
Brendan Cross
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Photo by Irvin Trigueros
Los Medanos College’s Tabitha Ostolaza (21) gets ready to make solid contact from a pitch delivered by Yuba’s Rachel Quinn in game two of a double-header last Thursday. The Mustangs lost both games, 7-0 and 4-1. LMC played against Mendocino Tuesday, also losing both games 9-3 and 9-6 as they finished the season with a 5-19 conference and 12-28 overall record.
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CORRECTIONS There where some errors in the breast cancer story published in the April 12 issue of the Experience. Here is the correct information: n Of the two scholarships one is for one person that is currently in treatment, and the other is for a survivor. n The event will take place at 7:30 a.m. and run until about 4 p.m. on October 12. n Ever yone will get a ticket for a drawing but those who wear a pink shirt will receive an extra ticket. n Clark never took statistics but she did pass Math 27 with an A. n You can also view the corrections on our web site by visiting http://lmcexperience.com/.
PINES From page 4
Photos by Irvin Trigueros
John Darrell Cua (above) fills out an application at the Art Institutes’ booth represented by Rudy Abalos. Carolyn Duong (right) goes over university fliers at the Transfer Center booth represented by LMC’s Elisa Castro during Spring Transfer Day, Thursday morning.
From page 1
the displaced offices during construction, is a $16.5 million project that is funded by the 2006 Local Facilities Bond (Measure A+),” said Horan. An estimated date of December 2014 is set for the completion of construction. But the new center won’t be fully furnished and ready for operations until Summer 2015.
AGS
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From page 3
The differences of the Puente Club and the Puente Program were explained between the two. “The Puente Program are for those students who wish to transfer to a fouryear college or university, who want to develop leadership and networking skills, and for those who are interested in exploring multicultural experiences,” she said. Applying to join is simple. “Puente is a really great special experience, I strongly recommend everyone to sign up,” said Martinez adding that interested students must take an assessment placement test, either at LMC or the Brentwood Center. If you are a graduating high school student you may take the assessment test in March and April, and need to be placed in an English 90 course to be eligible for the program.
Before acceptance students are required to attend an orientation, meet with a Puente counselor and complete a student profile. Both Puente member and coordinators are planning a Higher Education Conference May 11 for high school students as well as any LMC students. The program it is open to anyone who is interested and will include workshops and guest speakers from a variety of careers. It is open to anyone interested, and those who are interested could sign up for it with a Puente Counselor. Puente intends to encourage students to pursue educational goals and take use of resources offered. “Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in joining,” Abril said adding, “Its all about students educational success and readiness to inspire change.”
From page 1
From page 5
LAB
Sciences, will be posted at the Brentwood campus to teach the new courses. “With the departure of Liubicich from the main campus, the department will request a new hire to fill her spot,” said Rickman. Information on the STEM grant can be found at http:// www.losmedanos.edu/advance/GrantsManagement. asp, the Grant Management homepage of the Los Medanos College Website. Click on the link titled STEM Project Narrative. Any questions about the lab and/or the delay can be answered by Ryan Pedersen who can be reached at rpedersen@losmedanos.edu.
42
league players that Robinson should not have been the first one to make it in to the majors, as he was not the best player, according to Larry Doby. Robinson finally broke through to the majors in 1947, primarily playing first base. He received a lot of tension, due to his race, amongst teammates. Some Dodgers players never wanted to play alongside him on a team and there was really no middle ground. You either loved the fact that Robinson was playing the majors, or absolutely hated it. Throughout his career, he became one of baseball’s biggest stars, and paved the way for many more African American players, such as
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BOOKS From page 1
may not seem all that necessary because of the kind of information they would have is not likely to be damaging. To Park, the ef for ts to respect patron privacy is a vital part of what it means to librarians who operate under the American Library Association’s (ALA) Code of Ethics and observe a Library Bill of Rights. “It is just important because some people don’t have any other way to access information. If they can’t feel comfortable knowing it isn’t going to be broadcasted they might not feel free to look up things they need to or are interested in,” said Park. One example she gave is if someone needed to learn about something potentially sensitive like medical or legal issues with an assurance of confidentiality in the library they may not have any other way to learn about it. Robert Bruce, one of the student employee’s in the librar y, agrees with Park about it being important that borrowing information is only for patron’s themselves. “Its just if we did it would be an invasion of privacy. I don’t want people knowing what I’m reading,” said Bruce. According to LMC Political Science Professor Milton Clarke, the protection of privacy can be found multiple times in the United States Constitutional Bill of Rights from the second amendment’s right to keep a gun in the home to the fourth amendment’s prohibition against unreasonable search and seizure and the fifth amendment’s right against self-incrimination.
Park also looked to the fourth amendment to explain why law enforcement agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation would require a warrant to access what records are kept. For Clarke, the right to privacy can be abused by both the public and the government, creating a sort of tug of war between hating the potential for another terrorist attack versus law enforcement going too far along George Orwell’s 1985 novel concept of Big Brother. “What I would like to see is ordinary citizens like you or me who don’t have an axe to grind being involved,” said Clarke. Bruce saw privacy in the library record keeping being desirable because it helps avoid potentially awkward situations because if one person knew someone else had a book they needed they might try to track that person down to get it. For Park, patron privacy goes to the heart of what she sees as the mission of the LMC library. “We strive to impact the success of our students by providing academic information resources and also instruction and guidance on how to use those resources effectively and efficiently,” said Park. “Patron privacy supports it because it allows students to access the information and not feel anyone is going to judge them or use the information in any way against them.“ For additional views on librar y patron privacy visit Ilovelibraries.org/getinformed/privacy.
PLAY
EQUAL
Billy constantly received from the rest of the characters. But the laughs kept coming. From small chuckles to big belly laughs, the actors received a reaction for every joke. A few of the running gags included Bartley’s obsession with telescopes, Cripple Billy’s odd hobby of watching cows, and Helen’s love of smashing eggs. “It was magnificent,” said Deena Love, one of the audience members. “It feels likes you’re there with them. It’s just that good.” The acting performances were phenomenal. The actors all seemed comfortable with each other on stage, including the violent and emotional scenes. When Babbybobby, played by Mario Castillo, realized Cripple Billy had deceived him, he gave Cripple Billy a beating. Each actor made it seemed so natural and effortless as they emulsified their characters. Another audience favorite was Helen, played by Sonia Azizi. The irony in her comedy was the male actor’s fear of her aggressive, vain attitude. Whenever Helen’s brother Bar tley, played by Devin Williams, was on stage with her, he became the object of her humorous bullying tactics. Aside from getting the audience to laugh nearly every minute, the actors made use of every space of the set. Audience members were twisting and turning around in their seats every now and then throughout the play to see the actors around them. In a few scenes, JohnnyPateen drunkenly strolled down the theater stairs and ran back up. Babbybobby and JohnnyPateen, who were inches away from the front row seat engaged in a quick brawl in the sand with JohnnyPateen kicking dust toward the audience. Helen threw an egg toward the television screen in the audience, where Cripple Billy revealed himself before descending the stairs to the stage. When evening approached on the island shore, fog lights on either side of the stage covered the rest of the Little Theater. The production will continue its showings on April 26, 27, 29 at the Little Theater. Aye, if ye want a good ‘ole laugh, go see The Cripple of an Inishmaan.
same-sex relationships cannot petition for their partners to legally immigrate. This is a large area of financial and legal inequity that causes untold stress for LGBTQ couples and their children and other family members. Along with its noble principles, this country is founded on legal discrimination and hor rific practices car ried out in the belief that they were morally just. If your denomination has existed long enough in this country (more than the past 20 years or so), I suggest that you do some serious research. How did your denomination respond to the Civil Rights movement? To the Loving vs. Virginia case? If your denomination is old enough to have been around during the mid-1800s, what stand did it take on the emancipation of slaves? You may believe (and may be told) that your denomination’s stand on this issue is apolitical, but our country’s history is full of churches taking what we now consider to be heinous stands concerning civil rights issues. Read Dr. King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” and consider that all those churches he wrote to had opposed the nonviolent demonstrations being held in the South to gain legal equality. Religion is not apolitical in this country, and never has been. Your faith does not give you a free pass to insist on legal discrimination. The founding members of this nation ensured your freedom to worship as you wish. They also created a system in which discrimination can be legally ended. It has taken centuries for LGBTQ people to come to this point in history, and many people have suffered greatly so that this moment could happen. My marriage will gain the full legal recognition it deserves, and the full array of benefits that marriage ensures under the law. My children will no longer have to question whether or not our family will be invalidated again, by state or federal decree. This will happen. And hopefully, the time will also come when I will no longer have to explain why participation in a religious denomination (“Christian” or not) does not justify discrimination under the law. — Joellen Hiltbrand, English Instructor (and proud wife and mother)
is almost really three movies in one. The way it is shot is phenomenal, as was the supporting case, featuring Rose Byrne, Ray Liotta, and Ben Mendelsohn. If I had to pick a fault, it would be that the end drags on a bit. The third story, that deals with the children, did not need to be in the movie at all, as the crescendo was about half an hour before the credits actually rolled, but regardless, it did provide more closure to the back story. The movie, for the most part, successfully portrayed the idea of fate, and how your small actions can have an adverse effect so many years into the future. I would definitely recommend this movie to anyone, as long as you can handle some tough subject matter. From page 4
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“I would love to have more members for the community,” she said. AGS aims to give back to the community and help people get more involved by providing leadership development, academic support and community involvement. Alpha Gamma Sigma is more than a typical community college club, according to President Hilary Lee. “We make connections with our members, spend weekends together and become a family,” she said. AGS offers academic and volunteer scholarships once a year and all AGS students around California can enter. Requirements for club membership include $10 dues a semester, 20 hours of volunteer work each month, a 3.0 GPA for continuing students and 3.5 GPA for high school students,
and attend a minimum of three meetings, which are held Fridays, 11-noon in Library Room 109. The secret is being active for two semesters, keeping dues and volunteer work up to date, and then AGS permanently shows up on your transcripts and can be used as a professional reference. “Once you join, you’re in it for life,” said publicity director Gloria Duarte. AGS gives access to a lifetime of achievements, community service, networking, and a scholastic foundation to fall back on. If you are interested in Alpha Gamma Sigma, applications are available in The English Department from Tennille McEwen, the ESL Lab Coordinator. Or, you can email Lee at Hilary_lee@live.com or Ballesteros at Kelsey-Javi@yahoo.com.
Paige and Doby, to be signed by Major League teams. By the 1959, all teams in the majors had signed at least one black player. Robinson played a full 10 seasons in the MLB, compiling six all-star game appearances, a Rookie of the Year award, an MVP award, a batting title, and a World Series ring in the 1955 season. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962, just beating the minimum 75 percent of votes needed to get in with 77.5. Current Major League players spoke with passion about their respect for Robinson as a player and figure with mlb.com. New York Yankees center
fielder Curtis Granderson said: “42 has done amazing things for not only African Americans, which a lot of people think it’s just that, but for the overall globalization of the game.” Justin Upton, center fielder for the Atlanta Braves, said: “Every stadium you walk in, you see that 42 [it is a retired number for all Major League teams], you look at it and sometimes reflect back and say this is why I’m here. This is why me, as an African American ballplayer, can get the opportunity and form the relationships and be in the clubhouse and have friends that I have and play the game I love.”
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