Vol. 91 No. 6 - Oct. 18, 2019

Indigenous Day observed

‘Joker’ brings the hype

Mustangs vs. Solano

Indigenous Day was celebrated Oct. 14 by many different clubs a part of LatinX — page 3

Review of the movie the “Joker” which has brought controversy to the public — page 4

Los Medanos College fought against Solano College and suffered its first loss — page 6

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F.Y.I. Important Dates October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month Oct. 25

Fall Harvest Halloween festival

Oct. 31

Wear your costume to school on Thursday for Halloween

LMCAS meeting Los Medanos College Assosiated Students will meet Monday, Oct. 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Room CC1-114. If you are interested in voicing any concerns about campus, or are looking to hear what your student government is planning for the upcoming semester, then attend this meeting which is open to all students.

API club recruiting

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Rumor proved untrue

By JORDYN TOSCANO @jordyn.toscano

Students and staff at the Los Medanos College campus in Pittsburg went on lockdown due to threat of a potential active shooter on campus, Wed. Oct. 9th at 9:43 p.m.

The LMC Police Services and Contra Costa Community College District began receiving inquiries about a potential armed gunman on campus “approximately one hour before the lockdown occurred,” according to District Police Chief Ed Carney.

After receiving various calls about the rumor of an active shooter on campus, Officer Carney and Lieutenant Wehrmeister decided to send out a message through regroup and issue a lockdown at LMC until the area was cleared.

“I received a phone call from Lieutenant Wehrmeister at exactly 9:28 asking for a public regroup text for shelter in place or lockdown to be sent out. I should mention at the time there was no indication of any type of criminal activity,”

Spencer Batute • Experience

A police officer ready to draw his side arm walks into the College Complex in response to the incident. said Carney.

At approximately 9:35 p.m., a message about a shelter in place was initiated within the police communication system. The message was sent out to the public at 9:43 p.m. after Carney approved it, informing students that police were searching the area and there were no indication of

shots fired.

Even prior to the official order to shelter in place, the Pittsburg Police Department had six armed officers on campus searching the area for any potential threats.

“The Pittsburg Police were on campus when I got the phone call at 9:28. They were on location within several

minutes, around 9:25,” said Carney.

The lockdown was lifted at 10:07 p.m. after six Pittsburg Police Officers, two District Police Officers and various Student Police Aides cleared the area.

At 11:57 p.m. on the night of the lockdown, Jennifer Adams, Senior Executive to

the President of LMC, sent out a Press Release summarizing the nature of the situation.

Although Adams was not on campus at the time of the event, she received a call from President Bob Kratochvil explaining what he had heard.

“I was at home. Bob contacted me for the Press Release See TIME, page 5

Cars get a charge High fees and long delays

Charges for charging LMC

Parking fee 42 cents/kWh After 4 hours $4 per hour

McDonalds

By SPENCER BATUTE

LMC needs volunteers

Haunted campus

L M C E X P E R I E N C E . C O M

Police respond to threat

Asian Pacific Islanders Club is looking to recruit members. The club meets every other Monday from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Library, Room L-106. All are welcome. Anyone interested in learning more about the Asian Pacific culture can join or attend meetings. For other information or questions email sierra21abel@gmail.com

Los Medanos College Transfer and Career Services needs volunteers for Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 21 and 22. Come join and help the Transfer Center with events and get a great networking opportunity for yourself to more than 55 schools.

To register, go to losmedanos.edu/transferday/ or stop by the desk on the fourth floor of the Student Services Center or call (925) 473-7444 for more information.

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@batutie_

Krys Shahin • Experience

Political science professor Ryan Hiscocks giving a lesson.

Political impact

Current events taught in classes

By KRYS SHAHIN @Krysshah

Los Medanos College is a cross section of the larger community, and the current political climate is having an impact on campus.

While there is a difference of opinion on whether the onslaught of breaking news results in more or less engagement, many students and teachers find themselves talking about current events in classes ranging from speech and communication to history and political science.

“Politics have become, to me, more of a prominent thing with Donald Trump as president and everything. I think it’s a good thing politics are being talked about in class because more people should be aware of what’s going on in the country they’re living in,” said student Javier Briseno, who is currently taking Speech 120: Argumentation and Debate.

Instructors who teach topics associated with politics in some fashion See CLASS, page 5

A Halloween fundraising haunted house, 6 Days After, is happening on campus Oct. 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. It will be located in Parking Lot C. The fee for entry to the haunted house is $5. For more information, contact Student Life by email at studentlife@losmedanos. edu

The electric vehicle charging stations in Parking Lot A of the Los Medanos College Pittsburg campus, which were originally expected to be completed within the first few weeks of school, are now expected to become operable before the end of October or November.

Although the construction of the charging stations in Lot A finished in September, PG&E has experienced delays the development of the infrastructure in a nearby community.

At one point, the delays were expected to extend as far ahead as February 2020. These delays occurred when workers from PG&E thought they didn’t have the parts required to complete the stations, and would have had to order them directly made for the E.V. stations.

However, the February delay was significantly reduced after PG&E was able to find the required parts.

The stations are now expected to become fully operable before the end of October or November, or the end of the fall semester at the latest.

Free parking Blink members 49 cents Blink guests 59 cents

Civic Center

Free parking Free first 2 hrs $1.50/hr

Somersville Mall

Free parking Free 2 hr max

Krys Shahin • Experience

Source: PlugShare and CCCC District

At this point in time, PG&E is waiting on one last transformer to finish their infrastructure work.

“I think it was expected,” said Russ Holt, Buildings & Grounds Manager, in regards to the wait.

As a result of the 18 new charging stations, faculty and metered spots in Parking Lot A were also displaced, leaving faculty upset about the shortage of staff See PAY, page 5

Oakley walks out of darkness Fundraiser to prevent suicide

By ADRIANA IVANOFF Staff Writer

Adriana Ivanoff • Experience

Volunteers raising money and awareness for suicide.

The feeling of losing someone to suicide is impossible to shake. The immense guilt and ultimate sadness you feel from your loved ones early end eats away at you, but they are not entirely gone. They live on through your memories so that you can finish their walk for them, even if they believed they couldn’t go on anymore.

The Oakley Walk, a sister

event to the Out of the Darkness suicide prevention walk held in San Fransisco last month, took place at Cypress Grove Park in Oakley, Calif.

Oct. 12 at 9 a.m. Participants gathered at the park for a three kilometer walk in support of raising awareness for mental health and to join the effort to raise funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

There were multiple booths and organizations that banded together to show support for the event and the participants attending. The overall goal

was to spread mental health awareness and education in many schools, and provide funding for psychiatrists or classes that would educate students. The walk, now run

by Benjamin Estes, also set the goal to raise $45,000 to prevent suicide.

In the morning of the event alone, more than $35,000 was raised. At the end of the event, a total of $38,504 was raised for AFSP. The event raised money from selling wristbands that by color indicated how you See WALK, page 5

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Perspectives

FRIDAY,

OCT.

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2019

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“Two roads diverged in a wood and I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the diffrence.”

— Robert Frost

Hilary Hectrick

Katie Loughran

HILL’S LINES

KATIE’S CATCH

Fear disasters, they’re coming

Ignorance isn’t bliss politically

Natural disasters are everywhere. With wildfires, floods and earthquakes happening at the drop of a hat, we need to be prepared.

The earthquake that happened 10:35 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 14 has me thinking, “Am I prepared?”

We should all have a plan. We are never guaranteed that there won’t be a natural disaster where we live. Take the fire in Paradise, CA for instance. A whole city was wiped away due to a lack of preparation.

PG&E could not protect their equipment from sparking, and causing a fire from trees on private property could’t be trimmed.

Now PG&E must shut off electricity when there is high wind because people refuse to take precautions by making sure their trees aren’t touching power lines. Being ready for a wildfire includes maintenance.

According to readyforwildfire.org, there is a pre-evacuation checklist that states the following procedures for inside your home: “Shut all windows and doors, leaving them unlocked; remove flammable window shades, curtains and close metal shutters; remove lightweight cur tains; move flammable furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors; shut off gas at the meter, turn off pilot lights; leave your lights on so firefighters can see your house under smoky conditions; [and] shut off the air conditioning.”

Outside the home, there are precautions to take as well. Gather up all flammable items and bring them inside your home, put your emergency kit inside your vehicle, locate your propane tank and shut it off and leave your exterior lights on so firefighters can see your house. The complete list can also be found at readyforfire.org.

Floods are another disaster that might strike at any time, especially when there is a lot of rain. According to cdc.gov, if you live in a flood-prone area, it is advised to have a friend or relative out of state that can be a family contact if anyone gets separated. It is also advised to inform local authorities of any disabled, bedridden or elderly people so that emergency personnel know who needs help evacuating.

Another thing to be aware of is your community’s evacuation routes, shelter locations, warning signals, and emergency plans. Floods aren’t limited to geographical locations such as New Orleans. They can happen anywhere where irrigation is slow, such as a flat road, areas near a river or lake, or in front of houses where there is debris clogging the sewers and storm drains. For sewers, and storm drains, you can check them often for leaves and twigs and if they seem obstructed, call the city for help clearing them.

In the Bay area, we are more prone to earthquakes than any other disaster. Earthquakes can happen suddenly, so it’s good to know what to do if one strikes. The easiest thing to remember is to drop, cover. When you drop, get on your hands and knees.

When you cover, try to get under a table or desk. If one isn’t nearby, stay away from windows. Protect your head and neck. If you’re under a surface, hold on and protect your head and neck.

If you’re driving during an earthquake, pull over. If you’re outside, get away from buildings and stay outside. If you’re inside, stay there. The earthquake may be followed by aftershocks. After wards, make sure you’re not hurt, then access your building for damage. If you find damage, get out of the building. If you’re trapped, shield your mouth and nose from dust and try to get help by sending a text or make noise by banging on a wall.

There will be another natural disaster. We may not know when, but being prepared may be what it takes to save our lives.

They say ignorance is bliss, but that doesn’t apply to political ignorance. It’s easy to think that it is bliss, because remaining uninformed and ignoring the unpleasantries of those in power may allow you to focus on yourself.

You can create a bubble in which you can’t be harmed with scary information from the government. That bubble has to pop.

It won’t remain intact when you’re affected by those who lead our country.

The leadership of our country has been in the control of an individual that has created far more harm than good throughout his term. Donald Trump promised to make America great again, and now more than ever, it’s clear that this statement was just another one of his empty promises. He continues to take actions that make America an unsafe, unfair, and hateful place to be.

Now, the question is — What are we going to do about it?

If you aren’t familiar with some of the red flags Donald Trump had raised earlier in his term, allow me to provide a few: he bragged about using his celebrity status to, allegedly, sexually assault women, he claimed past presidents didn’t make calls to the families of fallen soldiers, he threw paper towels at hurricane victims, and he recently made it easier for people with mental illnesses to buy guns after rolling back restrictions that had originally made it more difficult for them to do so. Among the many listed above, the red flags may have just come back to bite him and the rest of our country in a major way.

Trump ran his campaign as a champion of gun rights, but does that make him blind to the need for more sensible gun regulations?

Yes, it absolutely does. This was made abundantly clear as the ridiculous number of mass shootings that have taken place under him has garnered little response from the President other than his hollow thoughts and prayers.

No one wants to live in a place where the constant possibility of a random mass shooting lingers in the air, but this is the reality for every American citizen today.

As the idea of sensible gun regulations have joined the other hard-to-swallow truths that Trump refers to as Fake News, it seems that the Republican lawmakers and legislators have forgotten the one thing so many of these shootings have in common: people who shouldn’t be allowed within 100 yards of a gun are acquiring them with ease and using them in an unsafe and reckless nature. The worst part is it only seems to be getting easier for these types of people to purchase weapons as Trump continues to reduce restrictions.

In an article written by Robert J. Spitzer, he compares America’s gun control history to our current situation with gun control and asks a critical question about how high gun violence toxicity levels must reach until it hits a critical tipping point that’ll open the eyes of those who see no problem with gun control.

The issues concerning our country’s safety from gun violence should already be enough to make any uninformed citizens skeptical about the person currently in charge.

We cannot stand idly by and witness the downfall of our country without a fight.

Together, we can change the things that need to be changed. Together, we’ll be the ones to make America great. Perhaps for the first time.

Although I have a car, I choose to use it only when absolutely necessary. I believe the future of this planet rests almost completely in the hands of man and the decisions we make. Although the benefits to my health are obvious, they aren’t why I ride. I ride because I love it, and all that matters in this life is finding what you love.

Emanuel Bravo • Experience

Editorial

Do not condone violence

In a time where we can see drastically graphic images, even by accident, on social media or watch movies with just a little too much violence integrated into them, we typically do not expect the President of the United States to entertain such content.

Recently, an edited video clip from 2014’s already controversial “Kingsman: The Secret Service” depicting politician’s faces and news organizations logos over the original scene, was created online and allegedly shown at a conference at Trump National Doral Miami.

We must chastise this behavior and these types of “jokes,” for they can be truly detrimental or perhaps inspire some with crude ideas.

The level of violence and aggression among society has increased drastically over the past few years, due in huge part to the media. Putting themselves in constant danger, journalists around the world are experiencing this violence first hand in order to inform their audience about what’s happening around the world.

In addition to being hunted, there are bombs being delivered right to politician’s doorsteps, shootings occurring in newsrooms and much more.

A New York based organization, the Committee to Protect Journalists found that at least 34 journalists were targeted and killed for their work in a conclusive study completed on Dec. 14, 2018.

The current political climate is far too fragile for videos like this to be spread around.

These kinds of “memes” or jokes should not be tolerated and should be chastised, such as comedian Kathy Griffin’s controversial 2017 photoshoot where she was depicted holding Trump’s decapitated head.

This is behavior that must not be encouraged or tolerated, regardless of your political stance and especially when someone in such an influential position like our President is the one sharing them.

It is our duty as a democratic republic to check the attitudes, and actions, of those in positions of power and maintain a mature level of respect for those whose opinions differ from our own.

Entertainment robs us of a full life Society has turned reality into a fantasy. As easier for individuals throughout the world to electronics and the media continue to take connect, but it has created a large disconnect. over each generation more and more, it makes For example, these days at family events you people see things that are happening in the real would see the older generation sitting around world through a television screen. The more talking and having a drink, and you would see this happens, it makes the people viewing the the younger generation not socializing, but on their phones. content disconnect from We have become the actual world. so desensitized that The things that peoif the same thing was ple consume through announced on all news television screens lead sources simultaneousthem to automatically believe what’s being ly at this moment, it seen is entertainment, would just look as if they SPORTY BOY rather than a serious planned to coordinate news event or situation. their social media pagPeople believe that bees.The kids today are cause it’s on TV there’s no way it could really being brainwashed with entertainment as if happen. Nearly everything that’s seen on TV that’s the providing and satisfactory factor in is viewed as fake or unrealistic. Then, when life, but there’s more to life.

Social media has blinded ever yone to things occur and is portrayed on the news, the truth, because social media only shows viewers don’t feel affected.

Phones have also contributed in destroying popularity in what’s trending. Yet, when the world in ways that can never be changed. something serious in the world happens it gets People interact with each other differently overlooked by the same media. It has blinded than how they did when phones and social people, confusing them between what’s real media didn’t exist. Electronics have made it and what’s not.

Joseph Johnson

Reader Opinion Policy The Experience welcomes Letters to the Editor and Guest Columns. All members of the Los Medanos College community — students, faculty and staff — are encouraged to write.

If you are interested in expressing your opinions on campus, national or world issues, bring your submissions to room CC3-301 and put them in the Perspectives Editor’s mailbox or mail them to Experience c/o Los Medanos College, 2700 E Leland Road, Pittsburg, CA 94565. You may also send them electronically through the Experience online newsite lmcexperience.com.

Letters and columns must be typed, signed and include a phone number for verification. They may be edited for clarity, content taste and length at the editor’s discretion.

Voices

LOS MEDANOS COLLEGE

Your reaction to the earthquake?

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Experience L M C e x p e r i e n c e . c o m

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Member California Newspaper Publishers Association

“Oh, it’s an earthquake.”

— Daniel Farley

“I thought I was dizzy for a moment.”

— Evelyn Leon

“I was laying on my bed at the time and I thought someone sat at the end of it.”

“I was on a boat and the wind blew. The earthquake felt like the waves.”

— Matthew Edman

— Toby Jennings

“I honestly thought someone was breaking into my house.”

— Yareli Jaquez

“I was wondering who was shaking my couch.”

— Alex Garcia

“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 .......................... KRYS SHAHIN Perspectives Editors........ ADRIANA IVANOFF and DANTE HARROLD Campus Editors ................ HILLARY HETRICK . and CHARLES REED Features Editors.................KATIE LOUGHRAN and SPENCER BATUTE Sports Editors ...........................ERICK AMAYA and JOSEPH JOHNSON News Editor .............................. KRYS SHAHIN Photo Editor ......................... HAZEL RECINOS Video Editor ...................... KELLY WILLLIAMS The LMC Experience is published Fridays by students in the Journalism Program. The newspaper serves both 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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Campus Newswatch Transfer week events

FRIDAY,

OCT.

18,

2019

3

“And the sun took a step back, the leaves lulled themselves to sleep and autumn was awakened.”

— Raquel Franco

Live Shop is certified

Los Medanos College Transfer and Career Center is offering this year’s transfer day event. It will be held Tuesday, Oct. 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Indoor Quad. A selection of colleges will set up tables to introduce some of their offered courses and other information about their schools.

For more information on weekly events go to losmedanos.edu/transferday/ or stop by the desk on the fourth floor of the Student Services Center or call (925) 473-7444.

Monday, Oct. 21 n Everything you didn’t know that you need to know about transfer from 3 to 4 p.m. in SS4-412 n Design Your Life: Life planning for career and transfer 4 to 5 p.m. in SS4-412 Tuesday, Oct. 22 n What is the difference? CSU, UC, Private, HBCU, (Transfer Panel) 9:35 to 11 a.m. in the Recital Hall n Transfer Day 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Indoor Quad. n Stanford Medical School-Everything you ever wanted to know about medical school 2 to 3 p.m. in the MESA Center n UCLA Honors transfer workshop 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in SS4-412 Wednesday, Oct.23 n Internship research and Prep 3 to 4 p.m. in SS4-412 n Kinesiology workshop 4 to 5 p.m. in SS4-412 Thursday, Oct. 24 n Application lab (UC/CSU) 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Assessment Center n CSU East Bay nursing: How to get ready for transfer 2 to 3:30 p.m. in CC3-361 n Personal insight questions workshop 3 to 4 p.m. in SS4-412

Automotive Instructor Stan Gozzi teaches his students how to diagnose issues in a diesel engine.

Upcoming university tours

By JORDYN TOSCANO

The Transfer and Career Center is announcing upcoming University tours. RSVP ASAP for these tours to reserve your place. For more information go to the website at www.losmedanos.edu/transfer/campustours.aspx.

If you’re interested in touring Sonoma State University (SSU) you’re in luck. A free tour is coming up soon. Fri day, Nov. 8 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Seats limited RSVP, ASAP. You must complete the entire online form in order to register for this event go to www.losmedans.edu/tranfer/ campustours.aspx. Also coming up on Friday, Nov. 22 is a chance to tour Mills College.

Jordyn Toscano • Experience

Gearing it right at LMC auto repair @jordyn.toscano

The Automotive Technology Program at Los Medanos College has involved students in their interactive Live Shop since the early 1980s.

The Live Shop is a cer tified auto shop in the state of California in which students enrolled in automotive classes have the opportunity to work on real cars for customers.

“We keep work orders. By law we have to do that because we’re a licensed actual shop in the state of California,” said automotive instructor Phil Torres.

Although students undergo instruction about car repair and more in their automotive classes, the Live Shop provides them with an opportunity to practice those skills on real cars with genuine issues.

“You get to work on actual cars [in the shop]. People come in and get really dirty

Workshops of self-improvement coming soon. Come join us and learn effective strategies for improving your overall sense of wellness.

This event will be hosted by Keenan Rondini a marriage and Family therapist trainee and supervised by Francis Love LMFT#27149. Both held from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30p.m. drop ins are welcome. n Oct. 24 in CC2-225-Senses Exploration: Use your 5 senses to explore the world around you. n Oct. 31 in SS4-412-Minfulness: Get Grounded, practice breathing, meditation, learn to calm yourself in the moment.

Food Pantry Cooking Demonstrations coming up this month and one more in November. Are you looking for ideas on how you might be more creative with the food you pick up at the LMC Food Pantry? Please come join us and learn suggestions and learn how. For more information, email the LMC food pantry at lmcfoodpantry@ losmedanos.edu or call (925) 473-7558.

Both demonstrations will be in the Library in L-109.

One will be Tuesday, Oct. 29 from noon to 1:30 p.m. The next demonstration will be Wednesday, November 20 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

ICC council meeting

Interclub Council (ICC) meets Monday Nov. 4 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in room CC2-225. Offering the representation of the clubs here at LMC that offer such things as recreation and entertainment events, and other opportunities to get involved, not only on campus but in the community, as well as time to socialize with other students. For more information contact ICC Advisor: Teresea Archaga at the Student Life Center or call at (925) 473-7554 or stop by the student life office.

Free online tutoring

Focusing on online videos allowing the student to study at your own pace. Dr. Scott offers a fun alternative to learning Math and Science by covering mental training and strategies to help understand the material. Tutoring services available for pre-algebra, and basic chemistry.

Save time and money and discover the art of learning.

Visit learnwithdrscott.com.

Fall concert Oct. 29

There is a fall concert coming this month Tuesday, Oct. 29 in the LMC Recital Hall 720. Professor Silvester Carl Henderson is conducting “The ‘Hegelian’ of Urban Performing Arts and Higher Education: The Worldwide Benefit.” It will Feature the LMC Chamber Chorale and Gospel Choirs with special guest performance by Dr. Phillip Harris and special guest speaker David Chong.

Tickets are $5 except children under four are free. For information call (925) 473-7805 or (925) 565-6107 or email at shenderson@losmedanos.edu.

What’s lost may be found

Los Medanos College’s lost and found has numerous items found on campus. If you have lost an item, check with Police Services, which is located on Level One. Inquiries must be made in person.

Apply for transfer now

Applications for transfer are now accepted. If you need help with college essays, applications and more come to Transfer and Career Center fourth floor Student Services Center. For more information got to www.losmedanos. edu/transfer or call (925) 473-7444.

— Compiled by Charles Reed

See AUTO, page 5

Student Dixon begins cheer club

Wellness workshops

Food pantry demos Oct.-Nov.

and mess up their $200 shoes, because they don’t realize you actually work on real cars,” said student Hector Olivares.

While the automotive students are the ones working on customer cars, there is always an instructor present to ensure that no issues arise. Because the Live Shop is student-oriented, repairs may take longer to complete than a typical auto shop. Regardless, the pricing at the

By KATIE LOUGHRAN @ Katie__Loughran

Charles Reed • Experience

Karen Mcbride informs a student about resources.

Indigenous Day event builds community

By CHARLES REED Staff Writer

The Indigenous Day event in the Los Medanos College Indoor Quad was a success. The event took place on Tuesday Oct. 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and featured various booths with food and free information.

The event turnout was high, as students came looking for insightful information from those that ran the event. Along

with food and information, there was great music and socialization between students involved or passing by the festivities.

Various clubs set up booths to raise awareness for undocumented students and various resources available for them. These tables also offered services such legal advice regarding immigration, See DAY, page 5

Ever wanted to get involved with cheer at Los Medanos College? You never could have before, but with LMC’s very first cheer club, you can—all because of Ashlie Dixon and friends.

The idea of creating a cheer club was thought up by the group of friends when they found out that there wasn’t any form of cheer team or pep squad on the LMC campus.

“We got the idea when we realized the school didn’t have a cheer team, so we were like, ‘why not start one,’” said Dixon.

Growing up, Dixon’s interest in cheering became apparent as she watched her sisters cheer from time to time. Dixon herself even got to participate in some cheering at different

family sporting events.

The club will be run by her and her friends, with Dixon taking on the role of club president and cheer captain.

“My role [will include] running our practices and meetings,” said Dixon, “I’ll be making sure that, before we of ficially start, we have everything we need to succeed.”

The club’s focus at the moment is about getting a group together and having fun cheering on LMC’s athletes, as opposed to competing by entering the club into local or national cheer competitions.

LMC Cheer currently has four members, and they plan on having meetings at least four times a week in the future.

They’re also planning on holding fundraisers once the See CHEER, page 5

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Features Marquee Ceramics to hold fundraiser

FRIDAY,

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“Journalism is the first draft of history.”

— Philip L. Graham

Play gets LMC hyped

The Art Department will hold a ceramics fundraiser Tuesday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Transfer Day. Their table will be near the ceramics area and all funds raised will help students purchase clay and other supplies.

Fall choral concert Oct. 29

The LMC Music Choral Division will host the Fall Choral Adventure Concert, conducted

by Professor Silvester Carl Henderson. The concert features the LMC Chamber Chorale and Gospel Choirs, with special guest performer Dr. Phillip Harris as operatic baritone, and special guest speaker David Chong, an LMC and Music Department alumnus. The show, titled “The ‘Hegelian’ of Urban Performing Arts & Higher Education: The Worldwide Benefit,” premiers in the Recital Hall Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5, and children under four years old get in free.

New show opens in Art Gallery

The Art Gallery’s next exhibit, titled “Abstract Alchemy,” opened Thursday, Oct. 17. The show features abstract art from seven artists, focusing on themes about the environment, society, and the general times. The gallery is located in the Library. Public is welcome and the event is free.

The exhibit will run Monday through Thursday 12:30 to 6 p.m. until Dec. 17.

Halloween event raises funds

The Office of Student Life and Shenanigans will hold a Halloween fundraising event in the Main College Complex (CC) Friday, Oct. 25. A zombie-themed haunted house will be open on the first two floors of the CC, and clubs will table on the third floor. Various activities, including face painting, costume contests and trick-or-treating will be offered. Half of the proceeds will go to Shenanigans to help fund productions, and the other half will go to the LMC Food Pantry.

The event will run from 5 to 8 p.m. Admission: $5.

California Theatre events

Here are upcoming events at the Pittsburg California Theatre. n Saturday, Oct. 19 — The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Show starts at 10 p.m. Tickets range from $14 to $17. n Sunday, Oct. 20 — WookyWooky Not-So-Spooky Little Ones Halloween Party. Show runs from 2 to 3 p.m. Admission: $5 per person, and children under 2 years old are free. n Louis Prima Jr. & The Witnesses. Show starts at 4 p.m.

Tickets range from $37 to $47.

— compiled from press releases and staff reports

Anthony Martinez • Experience

Kayla Martinez (left), William Thompson (center) and Jason Wolcott (right) strike a pose during a rehearsal of ‘Hype Man.’

Audiences get down to rhythm and beat

By DANTE HARROLD Staff Writer

The student-produced play “Hype Man,” which debuted at the Los Medanos College Little Theatre Thursday, Oct. 10, proved to be a resounding success. The play was written by Idris Goodwin and is directed

by Terrance Ivory.

The story of “Hype Man” features three friends in the hip-hop industry dealing with various social injustices that plague society such as racism, sexism, police brutality and cultural appropriation.

In the story, Verb, an African-American hype man played by William Thompson, and Peep, a

REVIEW

female DJ played by Kayla Martinez, come into conflict with Pinnacle, a white-rappper they work under played by Jason Wolcott, when they try to be more politically and socially active, especially in regards to their music.

The story features three characters and how they confront how their sex, race and class shape how society views them and what potential drawbacks and privileges could be their result.

The story feels true to life and no one is really demonized. The characters felt entirely human in the way that racism or sexism is displayed by each character, albeit condemnable, in such a way that makes clear that the characters aren’t

monsters for their flaws. The chemistry between the actors is plentiful – one could truly believe that the actors on stage had been friends for years.

The performance got off to a bit of a rocky start because, initially, things were a little awkward.

Nothing majorly wrong, just a few fumbled lines from an actor here or there.

As the play progressed, the performances only became better and the audience was clearly enthralled to the story. But, overall, the best performance came from Thompson. He was charismatic in his performance, his movements were exuberant and excited, and, overall, very

See HYPE, page 5

Music classes hit the note

Get in the right key for credit

By SPENCER BATUTE @batutie_

While the Los Medanos College Music Department is widely recognized for its prestige, it also maintains popularity among students for its broad array of introductory music classes.

This semester, the Music Department is offering classes such as Basic Music, College Chorus, Class Voice, Chamber Chorale, Gospel Choir, Jazz & Vocal Techniques and Basic Keyboard Skills to all students who might want to cultivate their musical talent, music major or not.

Joshua Reed, 21, is taking Jazz & Vocal Techniques to develop his singing voice and to expand his vocal register. Reed says he likes to sing in groups.

“It’s a little hard, but you just have to get into it,” Reed said. “And you have to be comfortable.”

Bona Nsiala, who works a day job as a plumber and takes Heating,

Ventilation, and Air Conditioning and other appliance classes at LMC, decided to pick up music to heal himself. Nsiala is enrolled in Jazz & Vocal Techniques and Basic and Intermediate Guitar.

Although Nsiala has been playing guitar for ten years, he wanted to improve his techniques under the guidance of a teacher.

Nsiala has also always wanted to write music for others, “noticed it benefits my soul.”

Nsiala practices 30 to 40 hours per week, and can often be found in one of the many Music Labs, which offers students private rooms to play while earning a half unit for logging their hours spent.

“I think people need help through melody and song. Just one melody can heal billions of souls,” Nsiala said.

Lucas Walker, music major for transfer, has been practicing music since he was ten years old.

“It came naturally to me, really.

REVIEW CREW

Warner Bros. Pictures

‘Joker’ Movie Summary: “Joker,” directed by Todd Phillips, released Oct. 4. Arthur Fleck, played by Joaquin Phoenix, is a loner desperate to make connections with an oppressive world. As his traumatic past and misfortune eat away at his psyche, Fleck descends further into his madness on his spiral into the iconic character, the Joker. The movie runs for two hours and two minutes and is rated R.

Spencer Batute • Experience

Music student Lucas Walker plays the piano in a Music Lab. As time goes on, it becomes your life,” he said.

Walker spends most of his time practicing in the Music Labs, and is looking to take advantage of the music classes, to learn more about the technicalities in the recording and mixing process.

Music professor Sylvester Henderson oversees the vocal, choral and piano area of the Music Department.

“Music helps you to see the world contextually and in a larger scope,” said Henderson. “It serves

as an equitable pathway into higher education.”

The Music Department comprises Choral and Vocal Studies, led by professor Henderson; Concert Band, led by professor Luis Zuniga; MIDI, led by professor Kyle Chuah; Jazz Studies, led by professor Michael Zilber; Music Laboratories, led by Aaron Nakaji; and Piano programs.

The Music Department will hold numerous events this semester, beginning with the Fall Choral Adventure Concert Oct. 29 in the Recital Hall.

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Ariell says: Joker represents society

Kelly says: This is an untapped genre

Arthur Fleck takes you on a journey through his mental illness and physical abuse which led him to become the Joker.

Specifically, I really enjoyed the movie because Joaquin Phoenix, the actor who played the Joker, was excellent and mostly surreal. As if he were the character, you were able to see the depth of how mental illness was portrayed.

If that was not enough, Fleck was also physically abused outside of his home by co-workers and random people who thought of him as a low life. All he wanted to do was make people happy.

Other dark secrets arise and lead Fleck to become the Joker. Though he was praised by the lower class for his rebellion against the wicked rich, they had failed to read further into the Joker’s true identity as he became more sinister.

I felt bad for the man because, in reality, society tends to treat people like him and those with mental illness as a joke.

After watching this movie, I would absolutely give the “Joker” a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. Joaquin Pheonix was the best Joker that I’ve seen. I highly suggest that everyone go check out this movie.

— Ariell-Alsoomse Calbert

Coming into “Joker”, I had no idea the eruption of emotions that I would face, especially that harshly.

Most movies don’t deal with this untapped genre of emotional hardship and mental health.

I appreciate their attempt at representing mental health, especially with the lack of representation in Hollywood, but it was too much of a slap in the face for someone facing these real life problems.

When mental health issues are addressed, the audience is thrown off in regards to the character with those issues.

“Joker” doesn’t properly relay information to the public regarding mental health issues, especially for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder who had to walk out of the theater with tears in their eyes. Joker was “no laughing matter,” as it showed issues that anyone can face.

The movie defined Joker as someone who has gone through extremes of mental health, but it needed more of his background that led up to the story of how he got there and his future had no connection.

Overall, “Joker” is a start of an intense discourse, but is also emotionally dangerous for those who could relate in many ways.

— Kelly Williams

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Kailey Lewis scored a 40 yard blast to make it 7-0 in the second half, Jazmin Alanis would play provider for Lewis’ first goal of the season.

For ward Anissa Gomez tallied her 12th goal of the season, adding room for her to remain as the top goal scorer in the BVC. “She also leads with her work rate. She wants the ball every play but that’s what you want from you top goal scorer.” said Sullivan.

LMC’s shoutout ended in the 84th minute, when Merritt College found the back of the net for their only goal of the match.

The Mustangs return home on Friday, Oct. 18 when they face the Mendocino College Eagles.

parking spaces.

As it stands, the plan to return the faculty spots is to restripe the student parking spaces in the aisle adjacent to the charging stations, and implement 30-minute parking spots instead of the previously metered spots.

“It’s an important project for the campus, so we really support it,” said Carlos Montoya, Vice President of Business & Administrative Services.

The $0.42/kWh cost of charging has also raised some concerns in the community.

Nursing student John Barnaby said the prices are on the high side. Barnaby, who owns a Tesla, can charge for free at

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and I believe that one of the officers contacted Bob and brought him up to speed on what was happening on campus,” said Adams.

While President Kratochvil was not on campus at the time of the shelter in place, he immediately contacted the chancellor’s office and Adams once he became aware of the situation on campus.

“Chief Carney gave me a call and told me what report had been given to them. I then called the chancellor’s office to let the board members know. I contacted Jennifer and drafted a correspondence to be put in the Press Release,” said LMC President Bob Kratochvil.

Fortunately LMC Police Services, Contra Costa Community College District Police Department and the Pittsburg Police Department have all confirmed that the potential of an active shooter on campus was a false rumor, as stated in the Press Release.

“Even though we didn’t hear shots fired, it was imperative that we still conducted a safety search of the entire campus,” said Lieutenant Chad Wehrmeister of the CCCCD Police Department. “We have only determined that the perpetrator was an unidentified male.

The situation is still under investigation.”

Students and staf f have expressed their gratitude for the open public communication by police at the time of the incident.

“I appreciate getting the notice about what happened last Wednesday,” said Julie O’Brien, Nursing Program

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were af fected by suicide; white was for parents who had lost a child, red was for a signifigant other, gold was for a parent, orange was for a sibling, purple represented the death of a friend, silver represented the suicidal loss of the military and all first responders, green was for the survivors, blue signifyied a general support, and teal was a person who was close to a survivor. Other merchandise included T-shirts and water bottles that had in bold letters the word ‘HOPE.’ Every participant had been deeply affected by different circumstances, which brought them to this event.

Talisha Tolliver, who spoke with teary eyes, described the suicide of a student two weeks after their graduation and how she felt the loss directly through seeing the parents a year later, imagining them struggle through the aftermath

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club is officially set up.

“Once we get our members together, we will be holding fundraisers to help us with funds for uniforms and then, when the time comes, transpor tation to away games,” said Dixon.

Dixon mentioned that they’re hoping to have about 15 members in total. Unofficial tryouts and signups for LMC Cheer will be held during the first week of November.

Any and all are welcome to sign up, regardless of one’s

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many places nearby.

“During the recent PG&E power outage last week I was able to charge through ChargePoint my Tesla Model 3 for two hours at $0 for 10 kWh at John Muir Walnut Creek Medical Center,” said Barnaby.

Even when charging at a Tesla Supercharger, which charges with Level 3 circuitry, Barnaby can charge for $0.28/ kWh — two-thirds of the price at LMC. At its current price, Barnaby wouldn’t charge at LMC “unless it was an emergency.”

After four hours, users will be charged $4 per hour on campus. Comparing this rate to nearby charging stations, it is significantly more expensive. Users can charge for

TIMELINE OF EVENTS Approximately one hour before lockdown: LMC Police Services, 4cd PD and Pittsburg PD began receiving calls about rumor of an armed gunman on campus.

9:25 p.m.: Six armed Pittsburg Police Officers arrived on campus to conduct a search and clearing of every building.

9:28 p.m.: Lieutenant Wehrmeister called Officer Carney to request that a public regroup text be sent out to the public about the situation.

9:35 p.m.: A message was drafted within the police communication system to be sent out to the public over regroup text.

9:40 p.m.: Officer Carney approved the message initiated in the police communication system.

9:43 p.m.: A public regroup text in sent out, informing the public of a shelter in place at LMC. 10:07 p.m.: The lockdown is lifted, students are escorted back to their cars and another text is sent out through regroup.

10:34 p.m.: The LMC Experience posted a story about the shelter in place that occurred on their website 11:57 p.m.: Jennifer Adams sent a Press Release out to faculty regarding the situation.

No time given Lieutenant Wehrmeister was called by an on duty police officer at LMC and informed of the rumor (before 9:28). Armed officers, DVC Police Lieutenant Ryan Huddleston and LMC Lieutenant Chad Wehrmeister, reported to the call from their homes and accompanied the six armed Pittsburg Police Officers in the search and clearing of campus.

Chief Carney contacted President Bob Kratochvil and informed him of the situation on campus. Kratochvil called the chancellor’s office and Senior Executive to the President, Jennnifer Adams, to alert them about the shelter in place.

Kratochvil and Adams drafted a correspondence to be published in the Press Release.

Professor and founder of the Mass Casualty Training Program at LMC. While some students appreciate the messages that were sent out, others had hoped for more information about the event at the time of its occurrence.

“It was truly an eye opening event for everyone and hopefully a wake call to our officials to speak up about this crucial incident even if noth-

of losing their beloved child.

This was her second time being at a suicide prevention event, as her first was in Southern California. She knew she was in the place she needed to be, standing for suicide provention.

This event brought many people together like those that endure, those that have lost and those who have struggled with suicide themselves.

“I struggle and have lost people to suicide,” said first year attendee Leighanne Bovet.

Benjamin Estes a first year cordinator for the event, reminiced how he, in his high school years alone, had talked twenty people out of suicide based on his association to suicide prevention that made people feel more comfortable when approaching him.

Before becoming the lead coordinator, after the prior coordinator had moved, Estes has been a registration worker for the past four years. history with cheer or dance. “[Sign ups are open to] anyone who wants to support our school and our teams,” said Dixon.

LMC Cheer will be one of the many other clubs on campus with a booth at the upcoming LMC Halloween fundraiser night on Oct. 25th.

The fundraiser will also feature a haunted house put on by the school in the Center for Academic Support.

“Everyone should come have a good time and help out your school clubs. It will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Parking Lot C,” said Dixon.

ing happened,” said student Esperanza Rojas, founder of Active Shooter Awareness Week. “I had hoped for the campus police or at least the president of the school to have made a statement about it.”

Although the event is still under investigation, Campus Police Services and the CCCCDPD are working to find out more information about the unidentified perpetrator and situation as a whole.

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entertaining to watch on their own. Thompson handled the emotional beats of the play ver y well. You could truly believe that he’s a dissatisfied young black man who wants to change the system and feel his rage and sorrow.

Wolcott’s performance was a close second in terms of quality. His character’s expressed reluctance to get involved with political or social activism felt totally genuine. Watching the performance, you grow irritated by his character’s persistent apathy and whining about his friends wanting to be activists instead of focusing on problems that are specific to him but in a good way. It gives a realism to the story.

Wolcott truly captures the tone with centrists, especially white centrists tend to have, in regards to racism or sexism. That those problems aren’t really major issues in society, especially in parts of society they function in. It’s a self-centered attitude and Wolcott’s portrayal of that sort of attitude is dead-on.

Martine’s performance was also splendid. You could truly feel the frustrations her character expresses about being a woman in the hip-hop industry.

The music used during the play, while simple, was utilized fairly effectively. The audience applauded strongly at the ending of the play which featured a call to action.

Per formances of “Hype Man” will continue on through Oct. 21 at LMC Little Theatre.

For tickets and more information, visit www.losmedanos. edu/drama/productions.aspx.

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Follow the LMC Experience online at lmcexperience.com

free at the Somersville Towne Center at Sonic Drive-In, and for less at other ChargePoint stations throughout Pittsburg.

Neither Holt nor Montoya, however, believe the costs are as high as they are specifically in order to capitalize unfairly on users.

The charging costs are still being assessed by the District Governing Council, and apply to all schools in the Contra Costa Community College District.

The electric vehicle charging stations took over staff parking spots.

Experience • Krys Shahin

AUTO

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LMC Live Shop is inexpensive compared to regular shops.

“We charge 25% of the industry pricing or less, which is very reasonable,” said automotive instructor Stan Gozzi.

Los Medanos offers a level of automotive training to students unmatched by any other school in Northern California.

Currently partnered with big name brands such as Chrysler, Subaru, Ford and Audi, students get the opportunity to train with professional-grade tools in the shop. These tools, that usually cost thousands of dollars, are supplied to students for free due to the partnerships LMC has made over the years.

“The average mechanics toolbox includes $120,000 worth of gear. The toolbox itself is $10,000. And when you work at a dealership you’re expected to show up with your own toolbox,” said student Rich K. Not only are the tools necessary for training costly, but the training itself is very expensive.

Basic training to complete Level 0 requirements for the typical automotive employee costs a minimum of $30,000.

LMC offers Level 0, and Level 1, training for free so students can begin working at a dealership or auto shop as soon as they graduate.

“We’re trying to offer students the opportunity to knock out their Level 0, Level 1, so they can accelerate and get a little better pay. So they can jump right into work their first day,” said Torres.

For the past year, the automotive program at LMC has been working tirelessly to acquire their national accreditation through the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

This accreditation will provide the LMC Automotive Technology Program with further opportunities and donations to their Live Shop.

Students currently have the ability to achieve their ASU Technician Certification, which is supposed to give that individual national recognition for their work. That means that the student can travel anywhere in the United States and work as a certified technician. NATEF is a larger scale version of ASU and is a national recognition for the school.

“The NATEF is a lot of paperwork, a lot of administrative, a lot of busy work. During the Final Review [for NATEF], which is all we have left, a group of tradespeople come and check it [the shop] out and give us the okay,” said Gozzi.

After the auto shop is certified, they expect new resources and partnerships to arise.

Students in the automotive program, whether they plan on becoming an auto technician or are a hobbyist, have a level of opportunity that most programs do not. The automotive program is currently offering 15 different courses regarding various topics, and allow students to participate in the Live Shop if they so choose.

“I conceptualize more than I actually work on stuff, and it takes me longer to work on things because I’m working with one hand. But you learn by doing,” said student Stefan Ahrendt. “Necessity is the mother of invention. You should take an interest in something you depend on every day, so why not learn something about your car.”

Instr uctors who teach topics associated with politics in some fashion also think students should be aware and engaged.

“I include current events into the curriculum because it’s important for students to have an understanding of what is going on around them, locally, nationally, and internationally, so that they can make informed decisions about how they’re going to live their lives,” said Argumentation and Debate instructor Zach Feere.

“I discuss issues such as the abysmally low turnout rates often seen in local elections, and as a consequence, the potential for even a small number of votes to sway the outcome of a race,” he added.

“My hope is that these types of talks will encourage students to become more interested in politics.”

Some instructors believe that American citizens have a duty to vote and ensure democracy works as the founding fathers intended.

But, “lots of students don’t know that history,” said History professor Josh Bearden, who added that he sometimes also includes issues involving “immigration which comes in waves and cycles.”

Bearden said he mentions Trump’s anti-immigration rhetoric because, “it provides students with context to understand history.”

He also acknowledged that politics and social issues can sometimes create tensions which is one reason some “teachers seem to be hesitant to jump into controversial material.”

But for others, it is an es-

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wellness program (on campus counseling) information and a representative from Contra Costa Public Defender’s office.

Sean Kearns, a representative of Eleventh District Assembly member Jim Frazier, spoke out for services such as internships.

Kearns was also facilitating communication with some organizations such as the Department of Motor Vehicles, Depar tment of Consumer Affairs and Cal Vet for certain Veteran Affairs.

“I want to thank Los Medanos College for providing this platform, this is a great opportunity for students who are undocumented, and advocates for students that are undocumented,” said Kearns.

One of the organizers, Mahlieli Bothi, the Administrative Assistant for the Equality Office had very positive feedback in regards to this event.

Bothi points out some of the advantages and services we offer at LMC, such as raising awareness for the various cultures enrolled in courses at LMC. Bothi said that he believes “building a community for LMC is important to gain support within our community as a whole.”

Representative Karen Mcbride for Stand Together CoCo (Contra Costa)/ Bay Area Community Resources (BACR) gave ver y positive praise to the event and its coordinators as well.

“Adriana Nieto-Morales and myself were at today’s event

sential part of what they teach.

“My job is to make students know how the government works,” said political science instructor Ryan Hiscocks. “I would feel remiss in my duties if I didn’t.”

“You have to understand voting,” he added. “it’s an expression of responsibility, an expression of a value to our history, an expression of respecting those who fight and lose their lives for our safety.”

Political Science colleague Milton Clarke acknowledged that it is important to talk about current political events but added that it takes time out of other key course topics.

“With a class like this, we are forced to deal with the fundamentals according to our course outline,” he said. “I feel like I had to talk about the impeachment… The problem is that there’s always going to be something timely to talk about.”

Feere said the Trump administration is certainly drawing the attention of the public.

While he acknowledged “the reasons and motivations for that attention, of course, vary widely from person to person,” those differences make for rich debate.

Although Argumentation and Debate student Denisse Soria admitted, “I personally don’t like politics at all,” she agrees with classmate Briseno about the need to engage with the topic.

“I do think it’s important to talk about in class because we have to know about it,” she said.

Additionally, Bearden emphasized another important reason to include current events in the classroom: “Students see themselves in the material we are studying.” on behalf of Stand Together CoCo (Contra Costa)/ Bay Area Community Resources (BACR) to talk to students about our free immigration rapid response 24hr hotline.

This hotline is for immigrant individuals and families that have immigration questions and need to be connected to legal counsel or they or someone they know had interaction with ICE and need legal representation,” said Mcbride.

“Our hope was two things; to educate the students about the many free immigration resources available not only to them, but their friends and family, and to invite them to join our Local Leadership Council (LLC), giving the students the opportunity to help put community events together in East County for the immigrant community. We succeeded in both, having many students sign up for more information.”

Mcbride pointed out the response her table got after the event; “Though the turnout was a bit slow, we had many students; immigrant and non-immigrant alike- excited about these services, as well as being offered the opportunity to be part of a wonderful and exciting local events that will benefit many immigrants in Contra Costa County.” “[this event is] bringing diversity and culture to LMC,” said student Nathaly Borges.

Another student Giovanni Rospigliosi having heard about the event from his classmates said, “I appreciate the items from Peru and the horchata, because of my mexican and peruvian family origins.”

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“You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the further you get.”

— Michael Phelps

Mustangs blow out Merritt Soccer team wins 8-1

By JESUS CANO @Juice_Cano

Erick Amaya • Experience

Mariah Minhares, No. 7, battles for the ball against a Merritt College player.

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1st conference loss

LMC staff plays ball

Solano defeats Mustangs

By ERICK AMAYA Staff Writer

By JOSEPH JOHNSON @picassojoe

The Los Medanos College faculty and staf f set up a softball game for themselves in order to take a break from the challenging work environment they endure everyday to keep LMC a nice, safe and productive environment.

During the game, everyone was all smiles, excited to reminisce in the games played in their youth by participating in the staf f softball game.

Bringing out the competitive spirit within them, the game sparked an excitement that was seen all over their faces.

Two teams were put together, The A’s versus The Giants, and the atmosphere surrounding the softball field was nothing but positive.

Everyone was rooting each other on and heckling each other. If the objective to this softball game was to get the employees out of their shells and have a good time, the goal was reached and exceeded expectations. The game itself was exciting the whole way through, even though everyone were friends. You could tell from the beginning that both teams wanted to win, and both teams were playing with an edge to win those bragging rights.

Dr. Carlos Montoya, the Vice President of the Business and Administrative Services, hit two home-runs for the A’s team to start things off. Soon after, Andrew Murphy hit another home-run for the A’s.

After riding on a four-game winning streak, the Merritt College womens’ soccer team came into town with its confidence running through the roof.

On Friday afternoon when they took on Los Medanos College, it was a battle to see who took sole possession of first place. But within minutes, Merritt discovered what it was like to play tough opposition.

At the four minute mark, Marianna Giovanetti scored LMC’s first goal of the game, it was assisted by Isabel Dumapit and Nayeli Carbajal. It set the tone for the game, the Mustangs didn’t stop. What, on paper, seemed was going to be a neck and neck matchup ended in an 8-1 blowout win for LMC. LMC stands in first place in the Bay Valley Conference, with 18 points, and are undefeated in conference play, outscoring BVC opponents 36-2 during that span.

“Our team chemistry last couple of weeks has been coming together,” said head coach Zach Sullivan, “Some of the sequences are just stuff we couldn’t do last year. The movement of the ball and switching the field.”

The Mustangs took the field with confidence with the same strategy that’s led them to where they stand.

After Giovanetti’s goal, the goals kept coming naturally. For ward Nayeli Carbajal scored in the 14th minute to make it 2-0, Anissa Gomez would provide an assist. The former University of San Francisco commit Giovanetti scored her second goal of the game in the 30th to give LMC a 3-0 lead, Eryn Wheatley would be credited with an assist off of the goal.

Giovanetti set the brace setter among the team. Carbajal scored her second while Litzy Ramirez found the net twice right before the half ended to make it 6-0. Ramirez scored her brace in the span of six minutes, scoring in the 34th minute, and again in the 40th.

Erick Amaya • Experience

Staff member Erwin Cadena catches the ball during the staff softball game.

The Giants ended up making a comeback with a homerun of their own by Russell Holt, giving the Giants enough momentum to catch up to the A’s and get his team pumped up and involved.

The last inning of the play was a toss up, as both teams were tied at 15 to 15, with the A’s at bat, giving them an opportunity to win the game.

Steve Valencia ended up

winning the game for the A’s with a walkoff home run, and a player on the base ending the game at 17-15. “[It’s a] great team builder, ever yone knows ever yone, and everyone is out to have fun,” said Holt, captain of the A’s team.

“It’s always fun to see the competitive spirit and have fun at the same time,” said Bob Kratochvil, President of LMC.

The Los Medanos College Volleyball team suffered its first loss of Bay Valley Conference when they hosted Solano College on Wednesday, Oct. 16. The Mustangs loss came in straight sets.

Both teams entered the game undefeated in conference play at 6-0. This matchup would give the winner possession of first place in BVC standings.

From the beginning of the first set, the Mustangs struggled to take control of the match. LMC trailed Solano College for the entirety of the set. However, the Mustangs rallied to give the Falcons a fight. Outside hitter Emily Soblik led the team in points for set number one. The set would end 15-25 in favor of Solano College.

The second set would be the Mustangs’ best performance of Erick Amaya • Experience the night, losing only 19-25. The score was alternating between Jazlyn Avelino, No. 14, and Sophia Corini, No. 12, both teams for most of the set. block the ball.

To finish off the set the Falcons would take possession, scoring final set of the game, as the our errors on our side. But, the final six points needed to Mustangs could not win the work ethic wise and competwin set number two. During set to prolong the match. The ing we did really good,” said this set, LMC would take leads score for the set was 16-25, in middle hitter Sophia Corini. “It but would give them up to the favor of the Falcons. Soblik, was a really good match up on Falcons. again, led the team in points team, skill-wise. We had more “We made more er rors for set number three. hitting errors, more serving than they did, that’s for sure.

With the loss, the Mustangs’ errors than them, and that’s I thought we competed pretty BVC record went to 6-1, what it came down to.” well, they were just a little leaving Solano College as the The volleyball team returns better than us tonight. They only undefeated team in the home on Friday, Oct. 25 at had little better ball control, conference. LMC is in second 6 p.m. to face Napa Valley and less errors than we did. place, above Mendocino Col- College.

We got leads and weren’t able lege, who have a conference For more information on to sustain them” said head record of 5-2. the team, visit: https://www. coach Lou Panzella.

“I think we played really losmedanos.edu/volleyball/ The third set would be the good, we just have to minimize index.aspx.