Drama ready to play
Back into the groove
Stangs beat Pirates
The Los Medanos College drama department is gearing up for four productions this season — page 4
Music prepares for a variety of concerts set to be performed throughout this semester — page 4
The Los Medanos College baseball team picked up its first win with a final score of 10-0 — page 5
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District becomes sanctuary
February is Black History Month Feb. 5
Last day to drop full-term classes without a “W”
March 1
Last day to apply for Spring 2017 graduations
Looking for senators LMCAS is looking for students who would like to become a senator. Weekly meetings are Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. in L-106. The deadline for applications is on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 3 p.m. in the Office of Student Life, but students are welcome to submit their applications earlier. For additional information contact John Nguyen at knguyen@ losmedanos.edu.
LMC offering up discussion Every first Thurday of the month, Student Life will hold “A Place to Talk” where students can express their thoughts and feelings about topics concerning today’s society. Last month’s topic was the inaugruation. The meetings are open to the whole LMC community and will be held in the Student Life Office.
Experience • Beatriz Hernandez
LMCAS President Israel Castro Cortez speaks at the governing board meeting Dec. 14. when the sanctuary district issue first arose.
Board moves to protect marginalized students By BEATRIZ HERNANDEZ
bhernandez@lmcexperience.com
The Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board voted unanimously to grant the district sanctuary status at a special meeting held at the Diablo Valley College Performing Arts Center Wednesday, Jan. 11. In response to the Trump Administration’s targeting of undocumented immigrants, Muslims and the LGBTQ+ community talks of creating a “sanctuary” at all three colleges first began with a petition sent online, gaining over 700 signatures. At the Dec. 14 governing board meeting, a packed room of students, staff, faculty and community members filled the room in support. “The call to be a sanctuary is more than just words, it is a call for a stance. What we are asking the governing board to do is to take an active stance, a pledge that you will do everything in your power to defend our most vulnerable students and to advocate for them in every way that you legally
Protest erupts amidst controversial decision By SARAH GONZALES
sgonzales@lmcexperience.com
Safe Space program a go LMC will be holding Safe Space trainings twice a semester for faculty, staff and students so they are better educated on how to deal with issues facing the LGBTQ. In addition to these workshops, the program will encourage the LMC community to mark their classrooms, backbacpacks, etc. to indicate they support the LGBTQ community.
Sign up for short term Short term classes are still available. Check online for class availability and waitlist information. For a full list of short term classes visit losmedanos. edu/shortterm.
“I truly believe that the Contra Costa Community College District is a leader in providing students with the necessary resources to be successful in their academic career,” said Castro Cortez. “Our intentions to create an atmosphere of community does not end with offering academic tutoring, it extends to ensuring that our students feel valued and safe.” Tears filled the eyes of speakers and attendees alike as people shared their stories. “I work with little kids and it came to the moment where after the election kids would come up to me Experience • Beatriz Hernandez telling me they were scared,” said Marisol Contreras a Middle College student at Contra Costa College CCC student Marisol Contreras urges the board to grant the district sanctuary status. who works at METAS, a group offering mentoring, tutoring and counseling to Latinx students. “There and politically possibly can,” said DVC Sociology are children, there are families there are so many Professor Andrew Barlow. people that need this [sanctuary].” Students such as LMCAS President Israel Castro As a member of the community, Mariela Cuellar Cortez also took the time to express their support chose to speak at the event as a parent of METAS as well. See SAFE, page 6
Peaceful protesters occupied the outside quad in front of Los Medanos College’s Student Services building Jan. 23 at 12 p.m. The protesters were there for an Anti-Inaugural demonstration in response to President Donald Trump’s recent move into the White House. The protest was organized by a new student organization on campus called California Association of Woke Students (CAWS), and self-proclaimed ‘watchdog’ of the LMC campus. “‘Woke’ just means to be aware of the political, economic and social climate of our country, so what I meant by ‘We’re going to be the watchdog on campus’ is simply, we’re going to be open minded
and aware of the things that this [Trump’s] administration does,” explained CAWS member Al-Ameen Ishola. “We are going to do everything within our power and our resources to make everyone else aware too. Awareness is the first step to prevention to legislation that we’re not a fan of.” LMC student and CAWS President Marcelo Clark, had initially planned the protest. “I wanted to show students that we’re in solidarity with them. And we’re not going to be silent about [Trump’s] administration,” said Clark, “I’ve seen that there’s been protests almost every day and I knew that students here might want to participate something similar on campus.” Experience • Chris Ruiz Clark went through great lengths to set up the anti-inaugural demonstration, having Student Al-Ameen Ishola at See WOKE, page 6
Anti-Inaugural demonstration.
Country reacts to Trump presidency By PERRY CONTINENTE
pcontinente@lmcexperience.com
Millions gathered in cities around the world to protest Donald Trump, and many others very publicly regretted their support of the controversial candidate, following his inauguration and the myriad of controversial political decisions The president made in its wake. Following his unforeseen victory against Hillary Clinton in November, Americans were left wondering exactly how much of his radical policies about healthcare, immigration, and Islam would be implemented, however, 11 days after the inauguration, signs point to sweeping changes
“As long as Trump keeps doing things this extreme, protest is not going to stop.”
— Dave Zimny
from the new president. Already the new president is also polling a 45 percent disapproval rating according to Gallup, a full 20 percentage points higher than the previous record for a new president, George W. Bush at 25 percent. Protests have cropped up in
airports around the country after Trump’s Friday executive order banning all immigration from seven predominantly Islamic countries including Iran, Iraq and Yemen. With many immigrants being detained in the airports to be sent back, people decried the ‘Muslim Ban.’
In response to Trumps prolife stance, approximately five million of women and men gathered in cities around the countr y, marched in protest of the new POTUS. One million alone marched in Washington DC, far outstripping Trump’s inaugural attendance of 250,000 to 650,000 according to Politifact. With so many radical decisions coming out of the Trump administration so fast, and such swift responses from protesters, there seems to be no end in sight for political unrest in this increasingly divided country. “As long as Trump keeps doing things this extreme, See REACT, page 6
LMC to respect names
New roster option offered By ADRIA WATSON
awatson@lmcexperience.com
This semester the Contra Costa Community College District implemented a preferred name policy beneficial for all students, but designed with problems in mind that transgender individuals have had to face The policy, which applies to all district colleges, including Los Medanos College, requires a simple preferred name request form — that has to be filled out at the admissions counter. Transgender student Stephanie Lutz said this policy could not have come at a more perfect time because she has been trying to save money since last year to get her name legally changed. “I was just really excited because [the policy] was coming in before classes started this semester so roll was super easy,” said Lutz. “I went into my math class and on the roll sheet it said Stephanie and I didn’t have to fuss about all my classmates knowing my bir th name — and in that class we put groups together randomly based off the roll so my name is constantly on the See NAME page 6
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“Dream radically. Act purposefully.”
— Brittany Packnett
Lilly Ramierz
Cameron Toth
GUEST COLUMNIST
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Lessons to be learned abroad
Get yourself a worthy mate
One of my biggest accomplishments was deciding to continue my academic journey at the young age of 30. It was an internal struggle I dealt with for some time. Everything changed one day when I came to realize that age was only a number. My age did not define my capacities, or my willpower to return to school. Traditionally, people finish high school and go straight to a four-year university, a community college or a technical school. Instead I packed my bags, got my passport and headed abroad to a relatively new country. With college tuitions skyrocketing to new heights, travelling is quickly becoming an option for our youth today in age. Yet there is also strong pressure for high school graduates to continue their education, due to the high levels of competitiveness in the real world. However, what happens to those students who have yet to select the profession they would like to pursue? Education is definitely an essential characteristic in life. You learn from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep. Learning is a non-stop cycle and should be explored outside the classroom, while walking through the streets, working in an office, reading a novel, listening to music and speaking with others about general topics in life. Learning occurs whenever, and more importantly, wherever. Leaving the social bubble of your hometown turns each day of your life into a classroom, and each person you get to know a teacher. The biggest problem is the pressure students feel to graduate and receive their Bachelors of Arts degree. A diploma will give them additional purpose and a head start in finding a promising job that will not only allow them to be successful, but also offer stability. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg all have something in common — they did not receive a diploma at a university. Nonetheless they are all successful individuals who have influenced many. Ever y individual is without a doubt different, and ultimately it is up to the individual to know if school is the correct path to walk down. It is not about skipping school and education, it is about exploring options, interacting with experts from different fields and giving themselves time and space to discover their true passions in life. Every once in awhile students will be afraid to explore the real world, so they decide to do the expected, which is college after high school. Despite the fact that taking a risk like travelling is never easy, it is beyond rewarding. Your everyday becomes a classroom setting, constantly learning and managing this amazing experience of being abroad. I am in favor of travelling, as it serves as an enriching learning experience, offering individuals growth and life-long learning lessons. School will always be waiting for those who decided to take a different route. Most definitely it is essential to understand that age is just a number, it does not define who you are. We are constantly learning, whether we are in a classroom learning from professors and textbooks or travelling and learning things you could only gain by being there in the flesh. For those individuals who have yet to decide on what they would like to pursue, remember travelling — across America or the world — is unquestionably a positive learning experience.
You’re passing your ex on the way to class, staring at them hoping laser beams will shoot out of your eyes almost killing them. You think of all the snarky, rude comments you can make about them and their new partner. Moving on is a difficult process, maybe not for some people, but it’s possible for everyone as long as you realize there are greater opportunities ahead. Moving on is a feeling of freedom, you can be selfish, and live a little without restrictions from another person. It’s a weight off your shoulders, like you lost 30 pounds and you finally met your goal weight on the scale. Moving on is like finding the last candy bar in the pantry before the rest of your family takes it. Ladies and gentlemen, it is time to pick up the pieces your significant other threw on the ground and move on together. Love is something people crave, not only for the attention, but also for the title of girlfriend or boyfriend. The title, for some reason, is one of the most important things when it comes to being in a relationship. Yes. I’ll admit, I love being in a relationship, but it comes with its hardships. We are under attack by the love bug as individuals! Cupid has shot his arrow at all of us! Everyone duck and cover! Every day seems like Valentine’s Day for people in relationships. You see the girls walking around flaunting their flowers or bears all day at school. People, it’s a montha-versary not a wedding proposal. During this time, it’s hard to ignore the fact that it’s not happening for you any longer. Yeah, that’s harsh, but true. Be strong, keep your head up and don’t be bitter. Don’t give your ex the satisfaction of seeing you well up with tears on your anniversary. Prove to them that you don’t need them. Take yourself on a date. Go to Starbucks and get the biggest coffee there is, get a book, go to McDonald’s, go be with friends, watch old movies and laugh. Lastly, cry as much as you want, but when you’re finished, make sure you never cry for the same reason again. What do you do when your ex has already moved on the day everything happened? You dress up nice, you flaunt your new outfit and, if you so please, walk by them to show what they lost. There is a probability that they will tell you that they want you back– don’t believe it. Stick with your gut and don’t fall for their tricks again. Being lead on by your ex is sometimes easy if you still have feelings for them, so anything they say or do can convince you that they want you back. No one knows why people do this because there is an preposterously long list of reasons. It could be that the new person they were talking to told them they didn’t really want them, or they just want you back because they can’t get anyone else. If this happens, think about it, think about all the situations that have happened, good and bad. Do you think you could go through it all over again? Can your heart take one more beating? Have the emotional wounds turned to scar tissue or are they still tender? These are essential questions to ask yourself before taking someone who has hurt you back into your life. I know it’s hard to walk away from someone and keep away from them completely. You need to stop making excuses for why you need to talk to that person and be friends with them, stop doubting that you’ll never find a “better” person and focus on making yourself happy. You need to start believing in yourself, and thinking positively. You don’t have to completely forget about the person because they taught you something– you can do better.
Experience • Joey Fajardo
Editorial
Keep obstructing evil
P
resident Donald Trump’s aversion to people darker than white had been both heavily chronicled and criticized for the 18 months prior to his entering the Oval Office, becoming the most powerful person in the world. However, in just his first twelve days of becoming president, he’s signed a number of executive orders, many of which are extremely questionable. One of the most controversial orders bans Muslims from seven countries from across North Africa and the Middle East from travelling to the United States. These countries — Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Yemen, Libya and Iran — have been apparently been selected with little rhyme or reason, as the Cato Institute pointed out that no American has been killed in an act of terrorism by a citizen of these countries on American soil in over 30 years. The United States has also been bombing five of the countires, and backing Saudi Arabia as they wreak havoc on Yemen. One might think this ban is based not on functional security solutions, but on racist crowd-pleasing. Another executive order has revoked funding from sanctuary cities, so called because they have refused to hold people in prison due to their immigration status. Many sanctuary cities and college campuses nationwide have refused to honor this order, choosing instead to protect their people and students. California leaders have been outspoken about their disapproval. Governor Jerry Brown said despite federal law being able to overrule state law, California will use whatever protective measures he can to protect immigrants. Many UCs and CSUs have also shown their support by making their campuses safe spaces for undocumented students. Closer to home, students, staff, faculty and community members within the Contra Costa Community College District signed a petition last December to make the local community colleges sanctuary campuses for immigrant students. The support for the petition has been plentiful, and we couldn’t be prouder of the people who helped make it happen. Los Medanos College community members have been particularly spirited, holding anti-Trump administration rallies and DACA forums to educate people on what to do if and when Trump’s immigration order affects students and their loved ones. Though we’ve taken steps in the right direction along with many other colleges nationwide, we’ve got a lot work to do. It is essential that we continue to both protest and organize in large numbers and pressure our elected officials on local, state and federal levels to resist President Trump’s xenophobic, racist and inhumane policies. While Gov. Brown has been a brave leader leader of the opposition so far, our federal officials have let us down. Offering empty platitudes, Sen. Dianne Feinstein has, like many Democratic senators other than Kirsten Gillibrand, offered precious little resistance to Trump’s cabinet appointments, rubber-stamping some of the most ghoulish choices in recent memory, a darkly impressive feat. As Californians, Americans and most importantly human beings, we must show our politicians that these policies of hatred and violence are not to be compromised with. There shall be no middle ground. There’s a troubling notion that — because Democrats complained when Republicans obstructed President Obama — it would be hypocritical and, worse, rude to obstruct Pres. Trump. This thinking shows that some Democratic officials see politics as a game, a system of gentleman’s rules that need to be followed. Pres. Trump has torn these norms up, and to continue to follow them guarantees misery and death. Officials like Sen. Feinstein and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi face virtually zero challenge from Republican opponents and therefore have no reason not to oppose the Trump administration at every turn. If they don’t take seriously Pres. Trump’s promises to rapidly expand and further empower America’s racist institutions and policies, we the people should make it known that we will back primary opponents who will. Now is no time for politeness. Public pressure does work. Sen. Feinstein announced Feb. 2 that she would be voting against Betsy DeVos, pyramid schemer and nominee for Secretary of Education. She said her office received over 95,000 phone calls, emails and letters opposing DeVos. In historian Rick Perlstein’s book “Nixonland,” he chronicles the decline of the Civil Rights Era, notably the Housing Rights Act of 1966, torpedoed by the same Northern senators who had enthusiastically voted for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. They were bombarded by racist consituents. It’s time we use our collective muscle to force politicains to do the right thing.
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
If you were president, what would be your first executive order? 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
“Help improve homelessness; establish more programs to help the homeless off the street, as well as make programs for veterans.” — Alex Rivera
“To put more funding toward students, children and families who can’t afford the little things, like education.” — Anthony McDougle
“Make a better system of welfare and financial aid, seeing as how I’m a student.” — Jordan Kim
“Allocate more funding toward education for people who can’t afford it.” — Chris Orduna
“I’d make college free.” — Gabe Taylor
“Free tuition and better health care.” — Mellissa Govan
Editors-in-Chief ...........BEATRIZ HERNANDEZ and KIMBERLY STELLY Managing Editor.....................ADRIA WATSON Perspectives Editor.........TYLER MORTIMORE Campus Editor ......................TERESA GAINES Features Editor ................SARAH GONZALES Sports Editor ....................... GARRETT BELME Graphics Editor..................LISSETTE URBINA 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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“The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit.”
— Moliere
Newswatch Save us from eucalyptus
LMC goes to UC Davis
Students interested in attending UC Davis will have a chance to explore the UC Davis campus on Friday, Feb. 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the Transfer Academy. You will be able to explore majors that match your career goals, plan your strategy for transferring to a four-year university, learn about financial aid, undergraduate research and prepare for a graduate or professional degree. For more information, visit the Transfer & Career Services located at the Student Services Center, Upper Level (SS4).
Employment help is available
Students who are interested in work should check out LMC’s College Central Network database. Any employer that connects with LMC is directed to post in this database. If you are interested in helping youth learn and believe that a positive academic mentor is important for them, join the Homework Club team. All that’s required is a basic understanding of 8th grade-level concepts. To learn more and apply for this position, log onto CCN and search for ID number Volunteer Crisis Line Counselor (job id 4636373), Child Activities Provider (job id 4636375) or Speaker’s Bureau Advocate (job id 4636377).
Learn your rights
If you have questions regarding President Donald Trump’s executive order banning immigration from certain countries, the Transfer & Career Center offers an FAQ information packet. The center is located on the Upper Level (SS4) of the Student Services Center.
Career assistance offered
Students who need help figuring out their career path can talk to Career Counselor Kristen Freeman. Schedule an appointment by calling 473-7444. Freeman is available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Experience • Christian Ruiz
The lake path near the Student Life building was shut down Monday after discovery of a hazardous tree branch that appeared to be at risk of falling onto the path. Building and Grounds Manager Russell Holt sent an email informing LMC employees the situation was being taken care of by construction crew members.
Debate shows ‘Steel’
Experience Japan for 10 days
Education First College Study Tours is going to Japan for 10 days to experience business and culture. Dates are tentatively set for May 28 – June 6, 2017. It is open to Students and Community Members. Enroll by Feb. 5 before prices increase! For more information you may visit their Facebook page at fb.me/EFJapanSpring17 or Call EF College Study Tours: 877-485-4184, Tour Number: 1825677CR.
By GARRETT BELME
gbelme@lmcexperience.com
Build for success
Los Medanos encourages students to check the Construction/Capital Projects website. It offers updates and information about current and upcoming projects at both the Pittsburg and Brentwood locations. The projects listed include the new Brentwood Center, Physical Education Complex, Campus Safety Center, Little Theater roof replacement and College Complex second floor renovation.
Counselors ready to assist
Looking to make an educational plan, or review your current one? LMC offers general counseling at both campuses. Drop-in hours are offered weekly. Students must have a student ID number and a photo ID to meet with a counselor. Appointments at Pittsburg can be made in person, by calling the Counseling Department at 473-7449, or by visiting losmedanos.edu/counseling and clicking on the Make an Appointment link. Appointments at the Brentwood Center can be made in person, or by calling 513-1625.
Daily cancellations online
The LMC website offers a daily class cancellation page for students to see if their class has been canceled. For the list of daily cancellations, visit www.losmedanos.edu/ classcancel. The LMC Experience Facebook page also posts class cancellations as well as other campus updates. Visit www. facebook.com/lmcexperience.
HBCU campus tours available
Students and staff will be traveling by airplane departing from the Oakland Airport on Sunday, April 9 and returning on Sat. April 15 to historically black colleges and universities on the east coast. The tour application is available on the LMC website.
Apply for LMC Scholarships
LMC Scholarships are open for the 2017-2018 academic year. The deadline to submit your completed online application is Friday, Feb. 10 at 11:59 p.m. Application workshops and scholarship essay workshops are available. For a list of dates, times and locations visit the Scholarship page on the LMC website under “Workshops.”
Get your updates on the ‘Go’
With Ellucian Go, Students can now check their class schedules, regster, manage education plans, manage waitlists and more through this app. Ellucian Go is available to download for iPhone and Android phones. Once the app is downloaded, students have to search for “Los Medanos College” and then continue logging in using their Insite ID and password. — compiled from press releases and staff reports
Experience • Jose Pantoja
Alejandra Pantoja (left) grabs a free shirt from Student Life Coordinator John Nguyen during Welcome Week at the Brentwood Center.
Catering to B’wood Pizza and resource tables offered By JOSE PANTOJA Staff Writer
Hot pizza, student camaraderie and tabletops of free swag filled the narrow halls of Los Medanos College’s modest Brentwood Center campus during Welcome Week for this spring semester. Though not as encompassing as the established Pittsburg campus’ event, the Office of Student Life successfully organized the attendance of half a dozen student groups and resources at the Brentwood Campus from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday Jan. 25. Students
appeared tentative in approaching the numerous tables until they were coaxed in with free pens, highlighters and T-shirts at which point the Welcome Week spurred an upswing in students interacting with the various clubs and resources. The student services represented included Student Retention Services, Student Financial Aid, Disabled Students Program and Services as well as Student Life itself curated by Student Life Coordinator John Nguyen and Student Ambassador Micah Judah. “We are aware that there is
not a lot of representation of the Brentwood Campus and we are making an effort to cater to Brentwood students,” said Nguyen, Nguyen stressed the importance of LMC’s more than 30 clubs and organizations as a way for students to build both academic and social success. He concluded, “Welcome Week is intended for students to learn about the amazing resources we have on campus and we hope students create clubs and organizations.” By 11 a.m. most classes See WEEK, page 6
The Los Medanos College debate team took on other colleges in the 2017 Steeltown Invitational and while a team representing California State University Humboldt took home the championship, LMC stood their ground and performed at a high level the two-day event that took place on the LMC campus Jan. 28 -29. LMC debate team members either ranked high or won a litany of awards — none more prestigious than Top Community College Award, which was earned by Genaro Mauricio and Richard Stanfield. Mauricio and Stanfield advance all the way to the semifinals where they debated against teams from Cal Poly, Humboldt and U.C. Berkeley, but unfortunately were not able to advance further. The success of the dynamic duo was not limited to themselves as a team. Mauricio and Stanfield both ranked in the top 10 speakers for the tournament with Mauricio coming in just outside the top five in sixth place overall, and Stanfield rounding out the top 10 as he finished at 10. While Mauricio and Stanfield shined for LMC, the remainder
See TEAM, page 6
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Movies released
n “The Space Between Us” Rated PG13 Genre: Drama, Adventure, Sci-fi, Romance n “Rings” Rated PG-13 Genre: Drama, Horror n “The Lure” Rated NR Genre: Drama, Thriller, Horror, Comedy, Musical n “Don’t Knock Twice” Rated NR Genre: Horror n “Dark Night” Rated NR Genre: Drama
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“This world is but a canvas to our imagination.”
— Henry David Thoreau
Students prep for the stage
Campanil Theatre
n The Ultamite ABBA Concert, “Abbacadabra” will be showing Feb. 11 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Join the Abbacadabra group as they transport you back in time with 20 of the original group’s greatest hits such as “S.O.S.”, “Super Trooper” and “Dancing Queen”. Tickets will be $32 for adults, $30 for Seniors and $15 for youth. n The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra will be performing Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. The Orchesta is comprised of 45 musicians, primarily Contra Costra residents, ranging in ages from 15 to 94. The performance will also be featuring well-known Bay Area Lyric Colatura Soprano, Elzabeth Hunter Ashley during the Song portions of the program. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for elders and $7 for students. The El Campanil Theatre is located at 602 W Second St. in Antioch. For ticket sales and additional information visit elcampaniltheatre.com or call 925- 757-9500.
Experience • Christian Ruiz
“True Colors of Success” by Linda Rivera - Schexnayder.
LMC Art Gallery
Drop by the Los Medanos College Art Gallery for the annual LMC student art show that opened this week. The exhibit features art from students that spans various genres and mediums. The gallery will be open from 12:30-2:30 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday until the event ends on Feb. 28.
Multiple plays coming soon By JORDAN NEEL Staff Writer
Drama students and faculty are busily prepping for their upcoming plays this spring. With a healthy mix of different genre, directors and even show length, this season provides something for everyone. The lineup includes “Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train,” in late March, “Shapeless,” in April, “Death and Silence,” in early May and “New Play Festival,” in mid May. “Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train,” is written by Stephen Adly Guirgis. The play takes place in a prison on Rikers Island in New York and centers on prisoners Angel Cruz and Lucius Jenkins who face murder charges. Department Chair Nick Garcia said the play is a must see. “It’s an absolutely incredible show,” he said. “When I first read it, it’s like a combo of ‘Oz’ meets ‘Shawshank Redemption’ so it’s got heart, it’s got power, it’s funny, the characters are incredible and so you feel like you’ve experienced something special when you watch it.” “Death and Silence,” an original play written by Ariel Dunn and directed by Nick Garcia, takes place in a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies like the “The Walking Dead” but told in it’s own unique way.
Photos by Cathie Lawrence • Experience
Above left, students Jayden Nunley, Tyrelll Odom audition for upcoming play. Above, Sierra Butler recites her lines from script Jan. 26 in Little Theater. “It’s a really good script,” says Garcia. “It is written by an emerging artist from our school that has a lot of talent and I just feel really honored to be a part of the project.” “Shapeless,” directed by Du’Praiseja Smith and written by Sean Carthew, is a one-act satire about body image and eating disorders. Four actors attempt to put on a comedy play that deals with body size and shape. The story focuses on three women, each with different figures, who are mocked by Mike, a playwright. Smith said she wanted to direct, “because I haven’t seen any plays about body image and this play expands upon the idea.” While she is a bit nervous about her direc-
torial debut, Smith said, “I know it’s going to be stressful, but I know it’s going to be a fun project.” The annual “New Play Festival,” is a collaboration between drama and English. The Creative Writing class write original plays, Garcia picks the best ten and the Acting II class acts them out. Aside from plays, the Drama department sponsors “Shenanigans” an improv/theatre club. Club members improvise for five minutes on stage and perform their own scenarios. Club President Yasmine Rahimi, who was a part of the LMC production “Boeing Boeing”
Migos lacks ‘hype’
California Theatre
n Join the fun for a night of PreSuper Bowl comedy with the former host of BET’S hit show ‘RAP CITY’, Chris Thomas along with the Bay Area’s comedian Erik Awesome as host. Tickets will be $25 for adults, and $10 for students. n Dennis Rowe Entertainment presents “Port Chicago 50”, a story inspired by the true events from 1944. The show will guide audience memebers through a story about African American Sailors who were recruited by the United States Navy to work in a navy shipyard in Port Chicago, CA. where things take a turn for the worst. Performances will take place on Feb. 10 at 8 p.m., Feb 11 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. The last performance will take place on Feb. 12 at 4 p.m. Tickets are availble for $25. The California Theatre is located in Pittsburg at 351 Railroad Ave. For ticket sales and additional information call 925-427-1611.
By JORDAN NEEL Staff Writer
Experience • Sarah Gonzales
Trumpeters Marcela Zaragoza, Tony Hendrix and Alicia Harris rehearse with LMC Jazz band instructor Steve Ernest during studio band practice Feb. 1 in the Recital Hall.
Performances to come
Music department seeks growth in program By SARAH GONZALES
sgonzales@lmcexperience.com
Photo Courtesy of Wherevent.com
A partner painting photo dipicting two birds on separate canvases.
Partner Painting
Join Starry Nite Studios at EJ Phair for a Partner Painting Valentines event. Bring a Partner to each paint a side of a canvas that can join together to form one large painting. Painting event takes place on Feb 12 at 11 p.m. to Feb 13 at 3 p.m. at the EJ Phair Brewing Company on 300 cumberland St. Pittsburg. For ticket information, visit the Starry Night Studios Partner Painting page on Faceboook.
DIVA Concert
One of the biggest and most successful concerts in the Phillipines- DIVA- will be visiting Pittsburg Highschool in the Creative Arts Building Feb. 19 at 6 p.m. Pittsburg Highschool is located on 2050 School St, Pittsburg. For Ticket Information, visit the DIVA concert Page on Facebook. — compiled from press releases and staff reports
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Los Medanos College’s music department will be featuring a number of performances from both the vocal and the instrumental group this Spring 2017 semester. Luis Zuniga, the resident concert band instructor at LMC, has shown great enthusiasm in exposing his students to more performances. “When I started here last semester, I didn’t know who I was going to get; I didn’t know who was going to show up for band and I didn’t know what the level was,” confessed Zuniga, “But very quickly, I learned that the level was very high and that we could do more than one performance this semester.” Zuniga has already began scheduling four different performances for his concert band. The earliest one is Feb. 10 at 9:45 a.m. in the LMC’s Recital Hall for
the Visual and Performing Arts Festival. “VAPA is like a career focus day activity, the focus being visual and performing arts, so dramatic arts, graphics, communication, journalism, music, recording arts and studio art are the majors that are going to be highlighted that day,” said Zuniga, “The only group performing however, is the concert band. We are going to showcase to the high school students in the area so they know we have a performing arts program.” The VAPA day event will be free and open to any students from nearby high schools including Deer Valley, Heritage, Liberty, Freedom and Pittsburg to attend. Following that, the LMC band has also been planning to host another two performances March 30 and April 1. Both concerts will start at 7:30 p.m. and will be located in the Recital Hall. See MUSIC, page 6
Atlanta trio Migos’ second studio album “Culture,” released Jan. 27 is a solid effort, but doesn’t show much growth compared to “Y.R.N. (Yung Rich Nation).” The hype behind this group has been at an alltime high as they have brought urban anthems from “Versace,” “Hannah Montana,” “Fight Night,” “Look at my dab” and “Pipe it up” just to name a few. Fans will be happy to hear they have not changed up their style or subject matter since “Y.R.N.” but even though some songs that are worth listening to, “Culture” still doesn’t offer anything different from the material they’ve created in the past. With this 13-track album members Quavo, Offset, and Takeoff make a hip-hop trap project that will definitely be played across clubs, parties and even on people’s car stereos. This new album gives them their first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with the catchy single “Bad and Boujee” featuring Lil Uzi Vert -- for
REVIEW
See MIGOS, page 6
‘Resident Evil’ regenerates By PERRY CONTINENTE Staff Writer
“Resident Evil 7: Biohazard” is a bold experiment — a brazen attempt to steer the franchise away from its action-heavy later entries and back to the horror that used to define it. While the game does stumble in its last few hours, the time leading up to this is so engaging, beautiful and terrifying that the slightly disappointing finale does little to detract from this fantastic game.
REVIEW
The game is centered on Ethan Winters — a man who receives a strange message from his wife three years after she went missing. Ethan quickly finds himself trapped in the house of the psychotic Baker family and must find his wife and escape. Each member of the villainous Baker family is distinct. From Jack’s relentless pursuit to Marguerite’s twisted covenant with insects, the Bakers make every moment tense. From the beginning it is clear that
Photo Courtesy of Playstation.com
See EVIL, page 6 Screenshot of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard gameplay.
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Mustangs scuttle the Jr. Pirates
— Jackie Joyner-Kersee
Hoops squad aiming high
LMC starts 1-0
Team is in 2nd place
By ANDREW GONZALEZ
agonzalez@lmcexperience.com
It’s about how you start, and how you finish. The saying is usually different, but the Los Medanos College Mustangs proved it true in their opening regular season game against the Modesto Jr. Pirates, earning the win 10-0. The Mustangs came fired up to play, evidenced by the pre-game huddle where every player jumped and yelled in excitement, pumping each other up before the first pitch. And when that first pitch came, they were locked in. Taking the pitching mound on the LMC home field was starter Llewelyn Stone, who struck out two batters in the first inning, quickly ending the Pirate’s at bat. Last year’s conference MVP Jonathan Allen picked up where he left off, hitting a single for LMC in the first at bat of the season for the team. His single was the spark that lit the fuse for the team’s offense. Two batters later, Allen found himself at third base after help from a bunt and Pirate miscue after the catcher was unable to secure a ball thrown his way. Riley Clear y then matched Allen’s single and drove him in to score, putting the Mustangs up 1-0. Back-to-back doubles by Antone Self and Gabe Taylor pressed the attack further, driving in two more runs for the Mustangs. The next batter grounded out to third, and the inning seemed all but over for the team as they were down to their last out. But the LMC batters learned to live on the words being echoed from their teammates in the dugout throughout the entirety of the game. “Be picky!” And so their patience, and their “pickiness” of the pitches, proved to be a key difference in the game, as they soon found themselves with the bases loaded. Deon White stepped up to bat, he saw his pitches, waited, and ultimately was walked driving in another run, before a pop-up ended the inning.
“Age is no barrier, it’s a limitation you put on your own mind.”
By AUSTIN HERRINGTON
aherrington@lmcexperience.com
Experience • Cathie Lawrence
Llewelyn Slone pitching against Modesto. The first inning that is, where the Mustangs went through all 9 batters, producing a 4-0 score in a flash. The game then slowed down significantly, as neither team was able to consistently string together hits and drive in runs. Modesto Jr. didn’t prove to be a threat until the fourth inning when they loaded the bases, but saw the opportunity go to waste after a grounder to third ended the inning. The Pirates were eager to swing their bats, as they repeatedly hit the ball deep, but not deep enough to where the Experience • Cathie Lawrence Mustang outfielders couldn’t make a play on the ball. LMC’s Jason Kreske makes it to first base thanks to a Modesto error. They could not find a rhythm to their swings, highlighted by the fact they had four batters or less in each inning except for that lone fourth inning. With the game still at 4-0, a Jose Vasquez single and a Jason Kreske double drove in one and two runs respectively, padding the lead to a comfortable 7-0. The Mustangs added two more in the bottom of the seventh, and another in the eighth, pushing their score to double digits. This score proved to last through the end of the ninth inning. It was a dominant performance by the Mustangs overall to begin their 2017 campaign, as they look to build on their second place finish last year in the Bay Valley Conference. For more information on LMC baseball team visit http:// Experience • Cathie Lawrence www.losmedanos.edu/baseball. Antone Self reaches down to tag out a Modesto player at third base.
SPORTS MEDICINE
more teamwork Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional athlete, you deserve excellent care. Our talented team of sports medicine physicians, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists can help you stay on top of your game.* To learn more, visit kp.org/diablo.
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Los Medanos College men’s basketball is looking to continue their successful season, as they are currently 7-3 in conference and 10-9 overall in the standings. In second place behind the red hot Yuba College 49ers, the Mustangs still have plenty of time to make it to the playoffs this year. In 18 games, the Mustangs’ field goal percentage is 44 percent which currently puts them in fifth place in the Bay Valley Conference. They also have 13.3 assists and are currently tied with Marin College for second place behind Yuba. With six conference games remaining, the Mustangs hope to snag a playoff spot this season after falling short last year when they posted an overall 17-10 record and 7-4 in the conference. Guard Albert Walters is a second year Mustang and said he is driven more than ever before to make the playoffs. “It left a nasty taste in our mouth,” Walters said. “We only have three returners from last year but we explained how crucial each and every game is”. The Mustangs have not been in the playoffs since the 2009-2010 season and Walters said, “nobody expects us to ever make any noise and this is our chance to prove them wrong.” But to make the playoffs, the Mustangs have to continue their aggressive play in the remaining five games. The team defense is going to be crucial through the end of regular season. “We have multiple people who can score the ball but the key is making sure we lock in on defense and limit teams to one shot possession,” Walters said. But like every team, it takes the group as a whole to be great enough to be able to beat the opponents on the court. Guard Royce Henry believes that the strong point of the team comes from the unselfishness of each player and being able See BBALL, page 6
NFL fans suffer from greedy team owners
In the NFL, everything is always changing, sentence pains diehard fans of the franchise, except the New England Patriots. Their play but in the grand scheme of it all, many forget over the last 15 years has been unparalleled, the NFL is truly a business. as evidenced by their seven Super Bowl Teams will go where the money is, and Vegas appearances, by far the most by any team has millions to offer for a new stadium. But in that span. They are the strange outliers what pains me more, and I’m sure the fans of in the ever-inconsistent league, backed by San Diego and St. Louis as well, is these billion generations of fans who stuck by them in the dollar franchises’ expectations of funding to most dire of times. come from the communities that house them. Over time, divisions have changed; the way In November, the San Diego residents shot the game itself is played is different from that down a measure that would have pledged a of 20 years ago. And of whopping $1.1 billion in course, teams themselves public backing to fund have changed, not just the stadium. from winning to losing The wealthy businessfranchises, but disapmen in charge cannot peared from the football call upon the pockets of realm entirely. While the local taxpayers, some of ANDREW’S OPINION whom have no interest league has not seen a team diminish completely in in the team or attending over 20 years when both games, to save them from the Cleveland Browns and Houston Oilers paying out the millions they actually have left their cities and became new teams, that access to. On top of that, coming along with does not mean current fans may be safe from a new stadium is the likely skyrocketing of losing their teams. ticket prices for the new venue, leaving fans The Rams franchise relocated from St. Louis to pay more and more. to Los Angeles to start the 2016 season, and In a sense, it seems as if the owners would one month ago the Chargers announced their like to pay nothing and only sit back and move to LA as well, leaving San Diego behind. receive the profits. It is pure selfishness on Both St. Louis and San Diego now sit without the part of the owners to place a burden of a team, leaving millions of fans heartbroken. this magnitude on the public, when the cities The common denominator behind all of the and states that house the teams have more moves is the desire for a new stadium to play pressing issues than a football stadium. And in. These moves, as one can imagine, are not after all of this, the owners still expect the easy, cheap, or fun, and for the league, a bad support of their fans, or former fans for that look. And as rare as these moves are, a third matter, to continue supporting the team that team may be on the move as well. ripped out their hearts. If the reaction of the The Oakland Raiders are currently explor- San Diego residents is any indication, fans do ing relocation options, and Las Vegas is the not take the change easy. Many went to the frontrunner for the team to call home. That See NFL, page 6
Andrew Gonzalez
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EVIL From page 4
MIGOS From page 4
Web
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Capcom has shifted the focus which the trio should thank were in session and Judah back to horror. With moldy Donald Glover for singling took a moment from serving hallways and cramped crawl- them out Jan. 8 at the 74th pizza to hungry students to space, the twisted old house Golden Globe Awards when explain his involvement with is dripping with atmosphere. he claimed during his accep- Student Life. “The main function is to There is a palpable sense that tance speech for his show something is amiss in the “Atlanta” the single is “the enrich the experience of students attending Los Medanos ramshackle plantation. This best song ever.” is not a game afraid to build He called the group that College,” said Judah. “Simply tension. Almost as much time appeared on one episode of put, we are in charge of making is spent creeping through his show “the Black Beatles fun events.” A few extracurricular clubs claustrophobic halls and poking of this generation,” and since around basements as is spent then the single has had a 243 were also present: Rotaract in combat, whereas in the more percent increase in Spotify Club, Students with Abilities Coordinate to Help Each other recent games every problem streams. The hit single is a great (SACHE) and Reading and was to be tackled head on —and introduction to the group Education Advance Dreams with heavy artillery. “Resident Evil 7” instead for people who aren’t al- (READ) all represented by borrows from more contem- ready familiar with them. Reiko Kubota who serves as porary titles like “Amnesia” Songs like “T-Shirt,” “Big vice president of all three. and “Outlast.” Early sections on Big,” “Get Right Witcha” Kubota attracted several stufind you largely unable to and “Kelly Price,” featuring dents to sign-up for at least defend yourself against the Travis Scott, are the true one club with her warm and supernaturally strong Jack highlights of the album as they jovial personality and a sincere Baker, making stealth your best give the Migos new sounds sentiment on the importance of option in the opening house. and catchy hooks that will “supporting academic success That is not to say that combat be stuck in your head after by building social skills.” As the event wound down is out of the picture entirely. listening to it. However since there isn’t at noon a second wave of stuEthan makes use of a variety of firearms, from pistols and much progression in the al- dents exiting classes crowded shotguns to an improvised bum for the trio, that makes through the halls and scooped flamethrower. The catch is for some of the cons on this up whatever freebies and pizza that remained. Though not that ammo is so scarce that project. A prime example is how a constant roar of students, every combat encounter makes players weigh their options the album starts out with the Brentwood Welcome Week carefully. Is it better to kill this opening track “Culture” featur- seemed a success in garnering mutated creature or should ing DJ Khaled. Khaled does student interaction. if the empty you slip past it and save your the usual, shouting his ad-libs tabletops were any indication. After the event, Judah refirepower for something even “They played themselves” as well as his own name, and that marked that though it was a more deadly? positive experience Brentwood While George Romero and gets old real quick. Even the verses from the Welcome Week may benefit David Cronenberg films inspired past games, “Resident members “Culture album from being scheduled closer Evil 7” draws from “The Texas coming soon” almost make it to noon in the future when Chainsaw Massacre” and “The seem like this was supposed more students are able to Evil Dead.” It exudes a cheesy, to be a free track released roam the halls. B-movie charm that stops the prior to the album. Toward the end of the game from being oppressively dark. Like the best of the album there are songs that 80s-era schlock films, it is — although they would be From page 3 equal parts horror and hilarity, appropriate to play for clubs balancing genuine terror with in Atlanta — seemed like of the Team — Amata Abatcha, campy excess without giving songs they would have made Gadai Buglac, Julio Campos, on their last album. audiences whiplash. Kyle Marshall and Randy That being said no one Utz — also turned in strong Further cementing its approach of marrying the old listens to Migos for any deep debating performances this with the new, there are tapes introspective lyrics on society, weekend. of literal “found footage” that you listen to them to have a After the tournament, LMC you can collect in the game to good time with their aggres- Debate Team Coach Marie experience past events from sive flows, hard hitting trap Arcidiacono assessed and another victim of the Baker’s beats, and catchy hooks that praised her squad. perspective. These derive inspi- may or may not have auto-tune “I think the team did very ration from modern films like being used in the making. well overall. Every team had While the group doesn’t noteworthy wins in preliminary “Grave Encounters” and “The Blair Witch Project.” Each tape exhibit much growth, the rounds and we did well in you find is distinct, providing album is cohesive in sound, Speaker awards… Our team a hint of what’s to come while has moments where it shines always stays positive and takes also drastically changing up and maybe their next album the feedback from their judges will have a different vibe — but to heart,” said Arcidiacono. the gameplay. One standout tape places I wouldn’t count on it. “Our LMC debaters always the hapless temporary protake what they learned in the tagonist in a sadistic trapped last round and improve for the room, providing one of the next round.” best puzzles in recent years. From page 1 Coach, Kasey Gardner, This is a game with personechoed Arcidiacono’s praise ality. In this age of cookie-cutter students. stating, “I’m pleased with the “We need to be strong, we way the team performed, they sandboxes and copy-paste first person shooters, it is a breath need to be united,” said Cuellar. did a great job debating their of fresh air to see a triple-A “Although I am a citizen now, I sides of the motion. I’d like to game in a stagnating franchise am an immigrant. I will be an see the tournament continue immigrant and I will support to grow.” reinvent itself. “Resident Evil 7’s” greatest any human being discriminated One of the more interesting strength is its ability to juggle against.” things to happen at the tournaFollowing the speakers, the ment was the amount of former disparate, seemingly opposite, gameplay styles and tones board gave their final thoughts. LMC students competing for “I felt what they were other schools, or coming back while still remaining cohesive and unique. And while its feeling,” said Trustee John to judge. One of which was 11th-hour switch to a more Márquez, expressing his LMC Alum Dennis Tekell, who action-oriented experience gratitude to all the people who now debates for UC Berkeley. is imperfect, “Resident Evil spoke up at the meeting. Tekell blazed past the other Trustee Timothy Farley debaters to take home the Top 7” still provides the best big budget horror game of the last echoed similar sentiments. Speaker award. “Let the people know that in 10 years and easily the best of Overall the LMC debate Contra Costa County they’re team did exceptionally well 2017 so far. safe,” said Farley. and will look to continue their In the weeks following the success in further tournaments. meeting an ad hoc committee For more information about was formed to create and the debate team or how to join From page 4 present the resolution at the visit losmedanos.edu/speech/ in December said, “I’m kind of next meeting. debate or email team coaches Although the Jan. 11 meeting Marie Arcidiacono at marcidlearning with everybody else on how all we want this club to had a smaller turnout, there iacono@losmedanos.edu or be and I really love the people were a handful of people who Kasey Gardner at kgardner@ who are in it. They’ve all kind chose to stand and speak. losmedanos.edu. “We are here in support in of became family to me.” She explained the impor- this resolution… our goal in tance of having a theatre club bringing forth the resolution because a lot people can’t take is to is to reaffirm the spirit of From page 5 the classes and they still want sanctuary within our district,” to be a part of theatre without said CCC HSI STEM Manager headquarters of the team after the academic pressure of Mayra Padilla. “While we the announcement, renouncing recognize the limitations of their support and leaving their mandatory participation. “It’s kind of a safe place for a the legal protections that can jerseys behind for the team to lot of us and I wanted to create be offered by the district, the deal with. After all, the team that for other people as well,” spirit of sanctuary is to make had spent all but one of its 57 she said. “Shenanigans is a students and employees who years of existence in San Diego. The NFL and its 32 franchisgreat way to get started into are threatened as included theatre. You can sit back and and safe as possible at a time es have moved into a new era of sports, one in which the top-tier watch and see if it’s something of real danger.” Not a single voice in opposi- players command hundred you want to do.” If you’re interested in join- tion was heard at this gathering. million dollar contracts, and The governing board unan- many more in eight figures. ing, stop by the Little Theater on the third floor of the College imously decided to pass the The required money is clearly not the issue; it will always be Complex. The first meeting resolution 6-0. “The freedom we all stand there. It is the greed of those will be scheduled soon. here to protect is freedom who look down from the top of of fear … what we saw last the NFL foodchain who cause month was fear,” said Farley. the messy endings to the loyal “I want this community to fan who has been through it all. If one day the owners begin know, as long as I am on this community college board and to see things from the perspecI have anything to do, I will tive of the fans, maybe things do everything in my power to will change. Or better said, the protect our students from fear.” team won’t change.
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NAME
MUSIC REACT From page 4
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the board every class.” Additionally, Lutz explained that her birth name feels like a weight she is dragging around with her no matter where she goes, but having the opportunity to use her preferred name at LMC “alleviates that stress of having to go back and correct [instructors] many times at the beginning of the semester.” Speech instructor Star Steers said that she has not had a student formally make a request to use their preferred name but makes it clear with her students at the start of every semester that she wants to use whatever name they’re most comfortable with. “I’ve stopped doing [gender specific] because I really do want to have an inclusive classroom and I want to make sure that everyone feels comfortable and that gender presentation is never something that folks feel stressed about in my class,” said Steers. “I’m really excited that the college switched over to preferred name usage. I think it’s a great way to support our students and it’s a really easy, painless way –– with minimal work involved for [instructors] –– to make everybody feel at home in the classroom and our school.” The policy has been a year in the makings. In reporting the “Saying the right name” story published in the Feb. 26, 2016 issue of the Experience, Director of Admissions & Records Robin Armour explained, at the time, that district IT would have to program a way for admissions to change the name information on a class roster. The process took time because it was necessary to test the change to see how it worked out before it was finalized. In addition, all district colleges must weigh in on new policies. “When we initiate a change district-wide, we have to have each college agree to everything. So, that’s why it takes so long sometimes to get something done,” said Armour adding that the district also had to research what documentation was needed from students regarding their birth name and preferred name. She explained that the last thing the district did was perfect the paperwork and get the procedure down for how each campus was going to do it and this semester, the district was finally ready to implement the new process. “Students have been asking for this for years but we didn’t have a process set in place and to be inclusive of everyone, which is our goal, we wanted to make sure we had everything detailed-out.” For more information or if you have questions about the new preferred name policy, stop by the Admissions & Records Office located in the Student Services Center, room SS-301. You may also email the office at lmcadmissions@ losmedanos.edu
Zuniga has been waiting to hear back from Concord High School, as he was interested in having the Concord band join the LMC band for the March 30 concert. The April 1 concert will also feature high school bands from the East Bay. Zuniga stated that one of his goals is to have the music program at LMC grow and hopes by exposing Bay Area high schools to the band would help him in doing so. “I think that we’re starting to make way in the sense that the program is starting to grow,” he said. “I’m hoping someday soon, we can have a 50 piece band and a 60 piece orchestra.” Zuniga has also made plans to have the LMC band play at San Francisco State University on May 11. “I know the band director there in San Francisco,” said Zuniga, “He actually came and worked with our band last semester. He invited us to go and do a concert with them out there since he liked the level of our group and how well we were playing.” Zuniga continued, “I think it will give the students a different perspective on how you’re going to do in the ‘real world’ when you leave LMC and become a professional musician because that’s as close to a professional level as you can be … I’m hoping that the students can get a different experience and play with a wellknown concert band — with San Francisco state. It will be an opportunity for individual growth as musicians as well,” Jazz Studio band instructor Steve Ernest has also expressed his desire to have his band perform outside of LMC. “As long as the band is good with it, we’re going to the Cal State East Bay Jazz Festival on April 8 and we’re going to perform there, get comments and meet some the other bands,” said Ernest, “I’ve got almost a full band this semester and I’m excited,” said Ernest. “I thought last semester turned out pretty well, I want to build on that and get the band to be event tighter, expressive and have these guys feel really good about what they’re doing.” Er nest had fur ther expressed his interest in future collaborative performances with other bands. “I’d also liked to do a couple joint shared concerts with the band director here at LMC,” said Ernest. “I’d also like contact any of the local groups here, either middle school or high school, about having a shared concert.” Vocal instructor Silvester Henderson shared that there will be a “Post Civil Rights & African American Music” event featuring Dr. James Lance Taylor from the University of San Francisco March 28 at 7:30 p.m. Following that, the 23rd Annual Gospel Community Celebration Concert will also be taking place May 6 at 7 p.m. Henderson added that there will be a speaker for the Academic Scholarship: “Music, the gateway into Higher Education” May 16 at 7 p.m. “We sponsor events with local ar tist, high schools, faith based organization, symphonic orchestras and bands, universities, noted celebrities, and local festivals,” continued Henderson, “Although we serve East County, our goal is to continue to validate our area as one of the finest music programs in the United States. One of our goals is create a Community Performing Art Performance Series.”
protest is not going to stop,” said professor of political science David Zimny. In response Trump tweeted “Watched protests yesterday but was under the impression that we just had an election! Why didn’t these people vote? Celebs hurt cause badly.” Trump later amended his previous stance on the protest, tweeting a more measured response. “Peaceful protests are a hallmark of our democracy. Even if I don’t always agree, I recognize the rights of people to express their views.” Given Trump’s blasé dismissal of protests it seems unlikely that protests will stop any time soon, there is another million-woman march planned for April already. “He has some tremendous mental problem,” said Zimny of Trumps response to the protests. He went on to say that his insecurities blind him to criticism. A prime example of Trump’s eerie ability to ignore bad news was his assertion that he “won a massive landslide victory” despite losing the popular vote by 2.5 million and barely carrying the Electoral College. Despite his nationalistic, far right political platform, many were unsure of his true political opinions. Prior to his ver y public feud with then president Barack Obama, Trump had radically different political leanings. Trump was a lifelong Democrat, and, notably, pro-choice. It wasn’t until his ver y public support of the birther movement and opposition to the Affordable Care Act, also known as ‘Obamacare’ that Trump shifted politically from a moderate democrat to the de-facto leader of the alt-right. Many have publicly regretted their decisions flooding twitter with messages of regret. User Brenda Miller tweets “I am ashamed that I ever voted for you.” These sorts of tweets are all too common with a twitter account “Trump Regrets” retweeting over 1200 such messages of regret.
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brought his own speaker, megaphone and made signs for the event. Clark continued, “We wanted to get involved and show that we’re not going to be silent.” More than 13 students joined the peaceful protest during the rainy afternoon, huddled together with signs and umbrellas. Many of the students were aware of the protests and marches that had broken out nationwide following the inauguration of President Trump and were happy to join in. “I didn’t get to [the Women’s March] go but I’m glad that there are people showing solidarity,” said protester Akila Briggs, “Trump administration has no place on this campus.” Clark also shared his own thoughts about the protests that occurred in other U.S. cities following Donald Trump’s inauguration. “I think it’s showing that a lot of people aren’t willing to continue to normalize white supremacy in this country,” said Clark. “There are still people out there who are willing to play the watchdog role,” stated Ishola.
BBALL From page 5
to play as one. “Once we play together, get each other person looks on offense, and lock in defensively, we’re a really tough team to beat,” Henry said. Starting off with a 3-8 record put a dent in the Mustang season. But they rallied and came together in their last stretch of games. “Our team chemistry has brought us a long way and it’s the reason why we have won 7 of our last 8 games to a current 11-9 record,” Henry said. A big win on Wednesday against Marin College 79-73, it brings them to a 12-9 overall record and second place behind Yuba College. Head Coach Derek Domenichelli said that they got the win, but characterized it as an “ugly win.” “We didn’t shoot the ball as well as we normally do, but we grinded it out and played tough defense,” he said. “What’s getting us over this hump this last month or month is our team chemistry,” Domenichelli said. The Mustangs’ next game will be Friday, Feb. 3 against Napa Valley College at 7:30 pm at LMC. — Johnathan Little also contributed to this report