OPINION ON 2
Erin Marie Fritz / Tempest
T
How important is travel to education? an opinion piece
“Moon Over Buffalo” opens at Solano
George Hay, played by Randal Chun, hugs Charlotte Hay, played by Mary Salvani, during a dramatic play-within-a-play scene. The play runs through April 12. See page 4 for more details.
The Fourty-Four’s bring blues to local Sacramento club FEATURES ON 5
Falcons softball sweep against Contra Costa in a double header match
TEMPEST Protest lodged over voting procedure in student election John Glidden Staff Writer jglidden@solanotempest.net
Top Solano Community College student leaders were informed March 25 that “possible improprieties” may have occurred with the spring student elections. A voting system in which the student government advisor double checks voters’ names for eligibility “takes away the right to a secret ballot,” said Lorenzo Hays-Phillips, alumni advisor for the ASSC and Inter-club Council, in a letter submitted to the ASSC student body president on March 25. “At this point, I fully recommend that due to improper procedure, making it impossible to accurately and honestly check for any SCC student’s status that the 2014-15 ASSC student election be
• APRIL 2 - APRIL 22, 2014 • VOL. 30, NO. 12 • FAIRFIELD, CA • www.solanotempest.net •
void,” Hays-Phillips wrote. The Associated Students of Solano College are holding their elections this week. Students voting during all of Monday and early parts of Tuesday were required to sign their respective names on a blank paper, while also providing a student identification number. This procedure is in contrast from past student elections when voters signed their names next to their printed names on a student list provided to the election committee by the SCC admissions office. This student list usually included the names of all students enrolled at SCC past a certain point in the semester. “Due to communication errors, we weren’t able to get the list on time,” said Jose Ballesteros, interim-director of Student Development, before the Hays-Phillips
Election committee mulls over meaning of six units John Glidden Staff Writer jglidden@solanotempest.net
On March 25, Naser Baig, a candidate for Associated Students of Solano College student trustee, informed the Solano Community College student election committee that he may not be able to maintain the six units required for candidates. Baig said that when he filed for candidacy he was enrolled in 11 units but due to a chronic illness he may not be able to stay in six units. Baig sought answers from the election committee on whether he would be allowed to continue his candidacy or would he be disqualified from the elections should he drop below six units before the end of the current semester. At the heart of the matter is
SPORTS ON 8
Article I, section 1 (B) of the SCC student government bylaws, which state “Executive officers shall be enrolled at Solano Community College (SCC) in a minimum of 6 units at the time of filing to run for office, or at the time of their appointment, and for the duration of the time they serve in their respective office.” “The way I’m looking at the bylaws, I did fulfill the requirements,” said Baig during the committee meeting. The student election committee discussed the item briefly and agreed to discuss at their next meeting a possible written authorization allowing Baig to stay in the election. SCC district governing board policy 1009 states “An election shall be held in the Spring Semester so that the office (of student trustee) is filled by the second board meeting of May.”
letter was submitted. As a way to prevent student voter fraud, the election committee numbered the ballots and empowered Ballesteros to double check the names submitted on the blank sheets and determine if these individuals are eligible student voters. If a voter is deemed to not be eligible to cast a ballot, then Ballesteros will remove that corresponding ballot from the cast ballot list. “There is that element of the loss of a secret ballot,” Ballesteros said. “The ASSC advisor will be the only one to double check.” David Brannen, a Community Service Officer and former chair of the ASSC election committee agreed with Hays-Phillip’s letter. “The election committee looks to have botched another electoral process,” said Brannen in refer-
John Glidden / Tempest
A poster asking students to “Vote 4 Office” is displayed on the door to the ASSC meeting room. Controversy regarding the voting policy for 2014 elections led many students to decline to vote. ence to the voiding of the 2012 spring election results. Brannen highlighted three different ways the ASSC election committee allegedly disenfranchised student voters at SCC during the
voting week: the loss of a secret ballot, SCC students receiving an e-mail from the ASSC election committee during the first day of voting, instead of prior to the 8SEE PROTEST, PAGE 06
Program burns new educational path for disadvantaged students Addi Simmons Staff Writer lsimmons@solanotempest.net
The African American Male Trailblazers Program at Solano College is one of the school’s many programs that support academic success. AT&T funds this program and uses these funds to provide resources for services and support that will help students. Karen McCord, Professor of Psychology and Ethnic Studies, as well as the main coordinator for the AA Male Trailblazer’s, said programs like these are necessary to ensure the success of students that might not have the means otherwise to accomplish their goals. “This program is important because African American males have a very low success rate. It is important to provide resources
MORE ONLINE AT WWW.SOLANOTEMPEST.NET Facebook: The good, the bad, and the ugly, an opinion piece
and support that will enable them to achieve their academic goals.” McCord said. McCord said the goal of the program is to support African American males, however, the program is open to all who want to participate. “This year we have a student, Jordan Coffey, who has the goal of becoming a dentist. He identified a mentor dentist in Roseville but did not have resources for gas to get there on a weekly basis. We were able to provide him with a gas card so that he could maintain this valuable intern position,” McCord said. Jordan M. Coffey, biology major, was offered this internship with the president of the California Dental Association. “After the first few weeks I
noticed the expense of the internship taking its toll on my student budget; therefore, I searched through out campus for funding. The only department who offered solid support was the Trailblazer’s program,” Coffey said. Coffey believes there is typically a lack of assistance for African American male scholars. “For the past two years at Solano I have found myself to be the only African American male in my three scientific courses,” Coffey said. “Programs like this are pioneering a paradigm shift in fields supporting and uniting students to pursue their interests despite the lack of identifiable support they may find in the classroom.” Earl Taylor, business major, is another participant in the AA Male 8SEE AAMTP, PAGE 06
QUOTE OF THE WEEK “If voting changed anything, they’d make it illegal.” - Emma Goldman
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THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2- APRIL 22, 2014
OPINION
America takes voting process for granted
campus calendar
April 3 Sonoma State University Liberal Studies info session 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Vacaville Center Dr. SSEX 11 a.m. -3 p.m Vacaville “Phonies: The Art of the Cell Phone” exhibit, Herger Gallery, 1300 building
Peace Summit: “Dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline” 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Back half of cafeteria
April 28May 2 Solano DAZE/Multi-Cultural Week
April 9
May 3
Financial aid workshop 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. Vallejo Center, room 129
Career Education Fair Explore new career choices, hands on demonstrations, meet faculty, alumni, and business partners 10 a.m. -3 p.m. main campus
April 10 Outreach health services, nurse visits Vacaville center, room 104
May 8
April 14-18
Bike to Work/School Day
Spring break-campus closed
May 14-20
April 21
Final exams
Priority registration begins for summer/fall
May 20 Last day of Spring 2014
April 22 SCC’s 44th annual Earth Day Club information tables, vendors. Theme is “sustainability” 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Outside the 1400 building, weather permitting
May 21 Commencement ceremony
correction In the March 19 print edition, in the story “SCC to host Battle of the Bands” on page one, Solano Battle of the Bands organizer Rodolfo Rangel’s email mail address is is incorrect. Correct email:723rangel@gmail.com. In the March 19 print edition, in the story “Choreographer adds diversity to dance” on page four, Ginger Caine’s name was misspelled.
We are hiring! Calling all writers, photographers, editors, carttoonist! Be a part of The Tempest. Register for journalism 59 or 60.
Why Americans should appreciate their comparatively peaceful elections
After I migrated to the United States in the early ’80s, it dawned on me that many Americans take their political freedoms for granted.
“Who are you voting for, PNP or JLP?” “I don’t know, I can’t decide.” “You must decide!” “Okay, I will say PNP.” That was the wrong answer: the gunshot ripped through his skull. He was 18 years old.
This is not the case in many Third World countries. In countries like Jamaica, This was a scene I witnessed in Jamaica in for example, the voting process can be bought the ’70s. It is still part of Jamaica’s political climate and sold. The ruling party is generally the today. Jamaica is governed by two parties: the dgraham@ party with the most money and military influJamaica Labor Party and the Peoples National Party. solanotempest.net ence. The sad fact is that Jamaican society has learned to “Voting is just a standard process in live with the killings, even considering it an integral part of America,”said Martin Quints, 25, a history major at their culture. I went to school through tear-gas and bottle Solano College. I don’t affiliate myself with any party. It throwing during election time. To me this was, indeed, just depends on what the politician says they are going to do a way of life. for our country,” he said. By Deborah Graham online editor
After I migrated to the United States in the early ’80s, it dawned on me that many Americans take their political freedoms for granted. They are not in a country where someone can just walk up to you and kill you because you have a different political platform. The fact is you would die quicker for the color of your skin in America then your political affiliation. In this nation the ability to cast a ballot is considered a fundamental freedom that protects the other essential rights that Americans hold dear. The freedom to vote and choose your party affiliation is how Americans, regardless of economic status, maintain the power to hold their elected representatives accountable for the decisions that impact -their lives. You don’t face death, though, when you choose to be a Democrat or Republican.
Martin makes my point. Many people in America do not take the voting process or their rights as a serious representation of who they are. Take a look at recent events in Egypt, Venezuela, and the Ukraine, where politics and martial law go hand in hand. So in 2016 when you are casting your vote, pause and be thankful that when you’re out of that voting box, there are no armed guards outside, no military tanks guarding the white house, no family members having to relocate because of their political choice. You have only a sense of peace that your democratic freedom protects you in this great nation.
The importance of educational trips
During the summer of 2012, I embarked on a People To People educational trip to Australia. During that time I was immersed in an exciting learning experience. I had the chance to learn about the cultures, the foods, the history and government, and visit the landmarks. I have to say that there was some uneasiness; I was a bit shy around new acquaintances and of course I had the occasional homesick vibes.
By Jon Beserra staff writer
According to Educationnext.org, students who took an educational trip not only recalled information at a higher rate, but also developed a greater critical thinking ability than other students who didn’t take a trip. “Students come back transformed,” said Theresa Brunner, art instructor at Solano who was hosting an art history summer trip to Rome. “It broadens understanding and passion in their educational journey.”
jbesurra@ solanotempest.net
However, I found my Australian experience to be not only adventurous and uplifting, but also mind-opening. The trip broadened my perspective from our own boxed-in culture to a greater international awareness. This experience I will remember and look back on for the rest of my life.
Brunner said that as a result of low enrollment, the Rome trip was cancelled, and students who wanted to travel were denied their chance. She said she needed 15 students, and at the time of cancellation there were only nine. Ultimately I encourage others to travel on educational trips
SCC to celebrate Earth Day on campus 44th Anniversary Earth Day is a day designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment. Solano College will celebrate Earth Day with an event that will include many vendors. Weather permitting; it will take place outside the Student Union, 1400 Bldg. on
Tuesday, April 22, and from 10am to 2pm. Clubs are invited to come out and have a fundraiser or information table keeping with the theme of “sustainability.” Several clubs, including Campus Cats, are already planning to take part in this event.
OPINION 3
THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2 - APRIL 22, 2014
Student indifference looms over ASSC election Edior’s Note: Editorials are the opinion of The Tempest editorial board which is comprised of seven editors.
editorial
We at The Tempest believe the ASSC should revive their efforts in communicating with the student body
Inside the student center lobby of the Fairfield campus a taped half circle marks a boundary around the ASSC voting table. Election rules state that no student is allowed within the area unless they plan to vote . For the greater duration of voting week, it has been empty. Just like any other week within the student center, practically no voting has taken place. In fact, the actions within the student center’s taped boundary have been largely ignored. Many students on campus are unaware of the elections or figure voting on campus to be a purely symbolic act . “They’re running out of post ,” shrugged SCC student Dylan Youngers as he displayed a sentiment shared by many students. With all four candidates running without contention, many feel the election has ended before it began. “There is an option for write-in can didates,” said Jose Ballesteros, interim-director of Student Development. “Even though they are running out of post there is a yes or no option.” According to Ballesteros, there are two students who are maintaining write-in candidacies after failing to file for candidacy on time. Though this is the case, many students are unable to name any of these candidates, let alone those on the ballot. The only thing matching the student body’s lack of awareness is their
admitted indifference to the election. “People don’t care if there’s no reason for them to vote,” said SCC student Alex Gonzalez. “Most don’t care just because they do their school work and leave.” Yes, the elections have practically been decided due to low opposition and low turnout. But even so, much of the student body is largely unaware of the role of student government and its impact on campus. We at The Tempest believe the ASSC should revive their efforts in communicating with the student body to explain who they are, what they stand for and the effects of their decisions. Doing this may stimulate student interest in voting perhaps even future candidacy. As it now stands voter apathy reigns over the entire process. “There’s definitely a quite a bit of that” said Latifah Alexander, chair of the election committee and student trustee, concerning voter behavior. “The last few years there has not been a high turnout process,” said Ballesteros. “This
semester there is not going to be a very high turnout from the trends that I see.” Though this has been the case, we believe that by raising awareness of ASSC voting issues and their outcome, by campaigning for student perspective and opinion, the ASSC will create a student body relationship that motivates student participation with SSC’s concerns thus elevating student response to student government. Along with representing students on administrative issues and regional governing boards, the ASSC controls resources that can be directed toward student-led programs and projects.
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Although elected officials are nonvoting members of the ASSC, a lack of student participation in campaigning and voting means elected officials and appointed members are not actually a true representation of SCC students or their desires. It also perpetuates indifference. “I think what needs to happen to increase voter turnout is to communicate to the students how their vote is going to impact their future,” said Ballesteros. “Candidates can put out more info on what they want to work on and what is something they can provide.” Last week Lorenzo Hayes-Phillips, alumni advisor for the ASSC, claimed “possible improprieties” within last week’s election recommending the 2014-15 ASSC student election be void. With the possibility of an added week of the election process, perhaps it would be the opportune time for the ASSC to heed Ballesteros’ advice.
tempest@solano.edu Include full name, and contact information (for verification purposes) and be advised that letters may be edited and/or shortened for length.
ON THE WEB Check our website for more letters at: Solanotempest.net
campus conversation reporter: Naama Aguulo Rios photos: Jon Beserra
“Have you voted for student elections? Why or why not?”
“I didn’t vote for the student elections... I stay here from nine to one or two so I really don’t hear anything about it going on.”
“I have not actually heard much about it ... granted that I spend most of my time in the Language Arts part of the campus.”
“I did, because I was really bored and I was wandering around and they said come vote and I said okay. “
“Well I haven’t voted for students elections because I didn’t know there were student’s elections.”
“No, not yet. I just found out about them a few days ago.”
-Cheryl Gonzales Nutrition
-Robin Murray Theater & French
-Creedence Dergie, Mechatronics
-Zeresh Muyama, Psychology
-Nathan Skolnik Photography
The Tempest is published by Solano College students. Opinions expressed in the paper are those of the individual writers and artists, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the college’s governing board, the administration, the faculty and staff, or the Associated Students of Solano College. Readers may take up to five copies of The Tempest free. Additional copies may be purchased for 25 cents. Member: California College Media Association • Journalism Association of Community Colleges • California Newspaper Publishers Association • Associated Collegiate Press
TEMPEST
THE
THE VOICE OF SOLANO COLLEGE
Christine Butler editor-in-chief
staff photographers: staff writers: Naama Angulo Rios Justin Johnson Leslie Rivera Addi Simmons Jon Beserra copy editor: John Glidden
news editor: Dagmar Kuta opinion editor: Ruben Rangel sports editor: Carlo Marzan features editor: Mitchel Bobo online editor: Deborah Graham photo editor: Dagmar Kuta
Naama Angulo Rios Andro Palting Steve Reczkowski Erin Fritz *
*
*
faculty adviser: Samanda Dorger
contact us: It is Tempest policy to correct any errors in the paper. Please contact us if you spot one. To get in touch with us: phone: (707) 864-7000, ext. 4361 e-mail: tempest@solano.edu postal address: SCC, Room 1861 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield, California 94534
4
THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2 - APRIL 22, 2014
FEATURES
theater
“Moon Over Buffalo” SCC Theater company runs rampant in shenanigan-riddled romp
Erin Fritz/Tespest
(From left to right) Richard played by actor St. Ives Gamble , George Hay played by actor Randal Chun, Charlotte Hay played by actress Mary Salvani, Rosalind played by actress Stephanie Hambright, Paul played by actor Henry Swanson and last Ethel played by actress Krystique Bright in Moon Over Buffalo. Steve Reczkowski Staff Writer sreczkowski@solanotempest.net
The Solano College theater department offers up a fun comedy of errors with its production of “Moon Over Buffalo” directed by Carla Spindt. Chock full of classic slapstick and misunderstandings reminiscent of the 1980s sitcom Three’s Company (I may be dating myself here…) abound along with cartoonesque chases through the set’s many slamming doors à la Scooby-Doo. A healthy combination of sight gags plus funny dialogue equals continuous laughter for theater goers. The play, set in 1953 Buffalo, NY, focuses on the zany antics of aging actor George Hay (Randal Chun) and his family theater troupe trying to stay together and relevant in an age of television and film. Just as his life starts falling apart, an acting opportunity arises for George from a
contemporary’s unfortunate accident, promising hope for his fame and relationship. A series of mishaps leads to a hilariously convoluted mashup scene of the troupe’s plays Private Lives and Cyrano de Bergerac. The set looks amazing. A very immersive environment of a theater green room that’s seen better days encompasses 95 percent of the scenes. The five doors, relied on heavily as props, give glimpses of environment beyond them when opened such as a gritty alleyway and a closet shelf stacked with striped hat boxes. Little details like that all around the set really sell the illusion of the space. The sword fight between George and his wife Charlotte (Mary Salvani), one of my favorite scenes, could stand some additional oomph, but achieves forgiveness through careful comedic choreography with monkey-in-the-middle meteorologist Howard (Ryan Gaskins). “Fight calls” are brief rehearsals of this type of stage combat prior to per-
forming. Dare I suggest a few more of these be run, along with some “kiss calls”? Some of the intimate moments could also use a little work. I caught the first live audience performance prior to the opening show. Some of the best lines were drowned out by laughter from the seats around me, speaking highly of the entertaining value of the work. The play, at its finest, will be a synergy between audience and actors. The actors were still finding some of their timing in this collaboration. Although, I nitpicked my way through this review, I enjoyed the show just as much as my cackling cohorts. As the show progresses, it will only get funnier. Go see it, now.
Showtimes: Evening performances (8 p.m.) April 4, 5, 11, 12 Afternoon performances (2 p.m.) April 5, 6, 12
Blues band rocks Addi Simmons Staff Writer asimmons@solanotempest.net
44s and Kirk Flecher performing at Torch Club in Sacramento on Thursday March 27, 2014. Addi Simmons/ Tempest
The Forty-Fours and Kirk Fletcher drew a large crowd for the tiny Blues club out of Sacramento called the Torch Club. The concert began with people slowly filing into the venue and sitting at the tables facing the stage waiting for the show to begin. As the band set up by plugging in their instruments and J.R. Lozano messed around on the drums, they lined up beer and whiskey shots on the floor of the stage and the dim light was focused onto the band. The show started off with singer Johnny Main whispering into the microphone “Let’s get down to business.” The music began loud and upbeat with the song “Dixie” which got several people on their feet and dancing instantly. The Forty Fours consist of singer and guitarist
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FEATURES 5
THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2 - APRIL 22, 2014
“Budapest” is a regal and rousing picture Mitchel Bobo Features editor mbobo@solanotempest.net
Wes Anderson’s latest film “The Grand Budapest Hotel” is a buttoned-up yet bouncing comedy brimming with visual flair. “The film’s stunning visuals will undoubtedly grab the attention of viewers, as each costume, character, and location exudes a level of refinement - to the point of standing as individual pieces of art. Ralph Fiennes as the film’s protagonist, Monsieur Gustave H., is a profound example of Anderson’s visual brilliance. Able to don a purple concierge suit in one scene and prison stripes in another, but all with an equal panache. The British actor is able to personify the film’s regality and charisma in an impeccable fashion. He also serves as a breath of fresh-air considering Anderson’s habit of sticking with actors from his previous works. Yet those falling into said category are not unwelcome or forced at all. The film continues Anderson’s cadence for comedic styling of a curt and dry nature, which fans have enjoyed since his
first film, “Bottle Rocket.” The visuals also represent an artistic continuity stemming from his previous works, as Anderson utilizes animations similar to those seen in “The Life Aquatic” and “The Fantastic Mr. Fox,” while the color canvas is reminiscent of “The Darjeeling Limited.” Certain detractors have criticized Anderson for operating solely in the realm of the upper-class, or what some have deemed as focusing on “white-people problems.” This film may serve as a retort to those in such camps, as a bulk of the picture’s story and humor seems to be propelled by scuffing the stuffiness expelled by the hoity toity sects of society. The film rolls along at a rambunctious rate, which only seems to supplement the punch-lines, yet this is not a film void of emotion or impact. Anderson is an auteur who excels in knowing when to floor the pedal and when to hit the brakes. Moments of sentimentality are made more poignant by deviating from the rest of the film’s hustle and bustle pace. “The Grand Budapest Hotel” is perhaps the greatest culmination of humor, story, and visual style from Anderson to date.
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Main, bassist Mike Hightower, drummer ano, and harmonica player Tex Nakamura, which sport long beards and two that wore es during the whole performance, despite dy dim light in the music venue.
rty-Fours hail from Los Angeles and in merican Blues News awarded them with the es band of the year. They’ve been touring since 2010 and have garnered a whole new on of first-time, young, blues-roots fans, g to their website.
etcher joined the Forty-Fours on stage at h Club to top off the night. Fletcher has ying guitar since age eight. He is a four-time usic Award nominee and has played with a f popular artists, including a four-year role uitarist of The Fabulous Thunderbirds. He sed three studio albums and is currently
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working on a live album and a fourth studio album, according to Fletcher’s website. As the lively Forty-Fours and impressive Kirk Fletcher teamed up on stage, sparks flew. You could almost feel the energy radiating off of them. They played together very well, and fluidly. Lozano and Hightower kept the rhythm of the band going by implementing their skills with incredible precision. If you’re a blues-rock fan, these guys are the real deal. They have some of the most original sounding, hard driving, blues bending material out there. They might not have a huge current fan base, but that will change. For the Forty-Fours, there’s nowhere to go from here but up. The 44s will be touring around southern California in the upcoming months, and Kirk Fletcher will be overseas touring in Europe.
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NEWS
THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2 - APRIL 22, 2014
ASSC accused of disenfranchising student voters 7 PROTEST, FROM PAGE 01
opening of the polls and the various polling hours at the Vallejo and Vacaville Centers, respectively. Joel Powell, SCC political science professor and former instructor with the student government, said that he has spoken to members of the ASSC about the possibility of voiding the election results. “I told them that if there are any questions about the legitimacy of the election results, then the results should be invalidated,” Powell said. “They (the ASSC student government) need to ensure the sanctity and trust of the students.” “If one student has a question about the results then the results should be invalidated,” Powell said. During the March 25 ASSC election committee meeting, Dulce Walton, a
member of the election committee, spoke to the committee about a person approaching the polls on Monday night who voiced her displeasure over the fact that students had to sign their respective names on a sheet of blank paper instead of the student list. “Well, we didn’t have the list,” said Latifah Alexander, chair of the election committee and student trustee at SCC, in response to Walton. In another part of the letter, HaysPhillips alleges that a current student candidate for office “was advising the election committee. This is a violation of the election code.” Hays-Phillips does not name the candidate. Alexander declined to comment regarding Hays-Phillips’ letter.
AAMT helps underprivileged students to succeed 7 AAMTP, FROM PAGE 01
Trailblazer’s program. He said programs like these are important, especially in our locale, considering the two state prisons in Solano County. “After being released from prison in 2010 and submitting approximately 100 employment applications and being turned down left and right, that’s when I realized that going to college was not an
option, it was a necessary requirement.” Taylor said. The African American Male Trailblazer’s program not only encourages minority students to create goals for themselves, but they help them keep them. “During my incarceration I realized that our young Black teens are missing positive role models in their households. Without positive male role models, our teen boys
are easily influenced into negative activities, which may result in their imprisonment or worse, death.” Taylor said. Programs such as the African American Male Trailblazers open up a world of possibilities for minority groups that, under a lot of circumstances, wouldn’t have been offered this type of assistance otherwise.
“Out of the Darkness” suicide awareness walk raises funds on SCC campus Deborah Graham Online Editor dgraham@solanotempest.net
Hundreds of walkers made their way around the perimeter of Solano Community College March 22 to assist in taking away the stigma of mental illness and suicide. Over 300 people participated in the second annual “Out of Darkness Walk”. The walk, hosted by the Solano County Office of Education and Solano Community College aspires to bring awareness of mental issues and their effects on society. Many people wore matching T-shirts to support the walk and commemorate loved ones that had passed away. “We thought we could help her but sadly there was nothing we could do,” Vacaville resident Jeremy Rayburn said about the recent death of his cousin, Ramona Bradbury. Rayburn and two of his other family members wore blue in honor of Bradbury. Bradbury, who took her life last June, was battling with cancer and suffering from depression. “We are still feeling the loss, but we know that supportive events like today put a face on mental illness. I am glad we had such a large turnout,” Rayburn said.
DJ Christian kept the crowd going by pumping up the volume and had the walkers doing popular line dances such as: “the wobble,” and “the cupid shuffle” around the course. Many people on the sidelines also blew bubbles and handed out water to motivate the walkers. Informational booths lined the course. Jeannette Goyetche, vice president of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and two others on her team, handed out brochures and other informational sources at their table. “This is our second year participating in the walk,” said Goyetche. “It is so important that people know there is help out there.” “Suicide is the number two cause of death for college kids,” said walk organizer Susan Labrecque, of the Solano County Office of Education. “Last year Solano County was the second most successful walk in the nation, raising more than $30,000, with over 800 participants,” Labrecque said. Donations will be accepted until June 30. For more information contact your local American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at afsp.org. Anyone who is in crisis may call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800273-8255.
Abstract cellphone photo exhibit to open in Herger gallery Addi Simmons Staff Writer lsimmons@solano.edu
Solano’s Herger Gallery will be hosting an exhibition from April 3-May 13 called “Phonies: The Art of the Cell Phone”. The exhibit will feature around 100 photographs sent in by students, faculty, and staff of SCC. Speech professor and exhibition coordinator Janene Whitesell said the idea behind the exhibit is to make art less intimidating and more easily accessible for those with little to no experience with art, but who still want to be a part of it in some way. “There’s a kind of equality when it comes to cell phone photographs. Everyone has the capability of taking photographs and it doesn’t require fancy equipment, art supplies or knowledge of design,” Whitesell said. All entries for the exhibit were automatically accepted. Whitesell said the entrants so far include a variety of different students and staff and she is hoping that students that are majoring in other disciplines have also entered. The Herger Gallery has never seen an exhibition like this before. The closest it
came to something like this was a juried exhibition around 2009 that was open to all artists. But since the advertisement for the gallery went out to websites that listed exhibition opportunities, the target population was artists. What makes the Phonies exhibition different is that it will include art from any SCC member, not just artists. “The idea for this show came about by pondering the question, ‘what if...’. We wanted to make the gallery feel like it was a part of the college community. Many times, galleries feel somewhat intimidating to visitors. We wanted to see what kind of a response we got if everyone was invited and everyone was included,” Whitesell said. The pictures will fill up the walls of the Herger Gallery April 3 and the reception will be Monday, April 28 from 4:30 to 6pm in the Herger Gallery, room 1302. The images will be printed on photo quality paper and priced at $3 each. All proceeds will go the art department’s “Friends of Art” fund. Members of the SCC faculty will view the entries and one will be designated as “Best in Show”. The image deemed “Best in Show” will be printed out and displayed in a larger format alongside the other photographs.
Above: Speaker Kassy Plambeck and a fellow participant kick off the walk with an “Out of the Darkness” sign, leading the group of awareness activists to raise money for suicide awareness. Left: Encouraging posters made by the Children’s Program at SCC are displayed proudly alongside the route of the walk. Deborah Graham / Tempest
SCC student government rejects women’s history month recognition John Glidden student government senate nixed the idea. Staff Writer
jglidden@solanotempest.net
Addi Simmons / Dagmar Kuta / Tempest
Get inspired by abstract photos taken with cellphones at Herger gallery.
With a 4-4 tie senate vote, Gabriel Johnson, president of the Associated Students of Solano College student government, cast his tie-breaking vote in the negative, rejecting the proposal which would have allowed ASSC student government to recognize “prominent women on campus,” during women’s history month. Jose Ballesteros, interim director of Student Development, presented the item for consideration. The proposal would have allowed the ASSC to recognize prominent SCC women with certificates. Despite the budget not to exceed $200, the
“We have so many other ways to recognize people on campus, I’m worried that this will take away from them,” said Maria-Alejandra Jaramillo, student services senator. In opposition, Business Senator Joleena Lewis said that she supported the idea of recognizing women on campus. The student senate voted the first time resulting in a 4-4 tie. After a senator called for a division of the vote, with each senator voting after his/her name was called. Despite the second vote, the senate deadlocked at 4-4. After a few seconds of silence, as Johnson contemplated his vote, he sighed and voted “no.”
SPORTS 7
THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2 - 22, 2014
Solano runs away with win vs. Laney College Carlo Marzan Sports Editor cmarzan@solanotempest.net
The Solano Community College baseball team came out swinging with full force against Laney College March 25. Eddie the Eagle stood toe-to-toe with the Solano Falcons, but fell short during the last few innings and SCC flew by with a 10-5 win.
The SCC Falcons scored the first runs of the game when infielder Robert Contreras and utility player Nick Perez scored runs during the first inning. Laney eventually took the lead, scoring twice in the third inning and two more in the top of the fourth inning making the score 4-2. Infielder Tucker Bishop had a huge hit at the bat,
making it to second base and allowing outfielder Dareion Evans t to score, putting the score 4-3. “It was two strikes and all I was thinking about was hitting the ball in the middle” Evans said. Miscommunication on Laney’s part lead to balk, allowing SCC outfielder Andrew Harris to get to second base and infielder
Tucker Bishop to score off of Laney College’s misplay. By the end of the fourth inning, the score was 5-4 in Solano’s favor. “All we had to do was force our opponent to makes some bad plays and hope that we do the same when we play in their own field” said SCC head coach Scott Stover.
From then on, the Falcons took off and never looked back. Solano made great use of bunts, executing the technique to get their other players onto the bases. The Falcons were able to turn double plays on the defensive end, cutting off Laney’s scoring potential. “We hope to get better when we face them again” said Perez.
Solano Falcons Perez and infielder Robert Contreras scored twice and an RBI each, while Trever Faulkner, Brandon Mihelich and Ian Acosta had two RBI’s. Solano baseball’s next home game will be on Thursday, April 3 against Los Medanos College at 2 p.m.
Andro Palting/Tempest
Solano Falcon #2 David Fernandez slides back to second base before Laney #6 catches the ball from the pitcher at Solano Community Mar. 25, 2014.
Steve Reczkowski
Falcon Dareion Evans loses his lid while rounding second after pounding out a triple during Solano’s home game against Laney College, March 25, 2014. Solano defeated Laney 10-5.
SPORTS CALENDAR Thur. Apri 3, 2014 2 p.m. - Softball vs Cosumnes River at home 2 p.m. - Baseball vs Los Medanos College at home Sat. Apri 5, 2014 1 p.m. - Baseball vs Los Medanos College at Pitsburg Tues. Apri 8, 2014 1 p.m. - Softball vs Yuba College at Marysville 2 p.m. - Baseball vs Napa Valley College at home
Tues. Apri 15, 2014 1 p.m - Softball vs Napa College at Napa 2 p.m. - Baseball vs Yuba College at home Thur. Apri 17, 2014 1 p.m. - Softball vs Contra Costa College at San Pablo 2 p.m. - Baseball vs Yuba College at Marysville Fri. Apri 18, 2014 2 p.m. - Baseball vs Yuba College at home
Thurs. Apri 10, 2014 1 p.m. - Softball vs Mendocino College at Fairfield 2 p.m. - Baseball vs Napa Valley College at Napa
Tues. Apri 22, 2014 1 p.m. - Softball vs Los Medanos College at home 2 p.m. - Baseball vs College of Marin at Kentfield
Sat. Apri 12, 2014 1 p.m. - Baseball vs LNapa Valley College at home
Thur. Apri 24, 2014 2 p.m. - Baseball vs College of Marin at home Steve Reczkowski
FalconTyler Bishop slides into third uncontested during Solano’s home game against Laney College, March 25, 2014. Solano defeated Laney 10-5.
8
THE TEMPEST n APRIL 2 - 22, 2014
SPORTS
Double header sweep Solano Falcon’s softball team brush off competition
Carlo Marzan Sports Editor cmarzan@solanotempest.net
fielding the best defense in the State of California, SCC head coach Terri Pearson-Bloom still sees room for improvement.
The Solano Community College women’s softball team had a field day in their game against the Contra Costa Comets on March 26. It was another day at work for the Falcons as they mowed over the Comets, 11-2. SCC pitcher and first baseman Amber Takeda pitched for five innings of the first game of a double header, limiting the Comets to just two runs and walks along with three walks.
“We should not have let them score two runs, it should be a shutout. It wasn’t,” said Pearson-Bloom. “So we can get better there.”
Takeda along with SCC infielder Aleyna Benipayo each hit three-run homers while SCC infielder Jade Bacta added a solo homerun.
Even so, the miniscule errors of letting their opponents score on the part of Solano is outshined by the great plays they showed in game.
Benipayo was all over the field, covering the third base well on defense while stealing bases in the blink of an eye. Due to her style of play, Benipayo was named player of the week by California Community College Atheletics Association(CCCAA) .
“We had a couple home runs in the game; everybody is hitting the ball really strongly, a lot of doubles and triples, just great hitting performance” Pearson-Bloom said.
“It’s really good just to feel the ball hit the bat, it’s the best feeling in the world” said Bacta. “It was good; we all just came out to play today. It’s nice to see our defense finally do some work” said Benipayo. With the win in their pocket and
“We’re doing the things we need to do, we’re number one in the state right now , so we got to come out, everyday keep working hard so we stay where we deserve to be,” PearsonBloom added.
The Falcons won the second game of the double header, obliterating Contra Costa, 17-2. Solano continues to push their 16 win game streak as they are 23-2 overall and 9-0 for the conference. The Falcons next home softball game will be Thursday against Cosumnes River in a double header at 1:00 pm.
SCC swim team treads water at Invitational
Steve Reczkowski
Top: Falcon Aleyna Benipayo blasts the ball to first after stopping a grounder, March 25, 2014. Solano defeated Contra Costa in a double header 11-2 and 17-2 in Fairfield.
Steve Reczkowski
Falcon Alex Palting gasps some air while competing in the men’s 200 yard butterfly event during the 15th Annual Solano College Swim/Dive Invitational held on the main campus, March 29, 2014.
Andro Palting/Tempest
Solano Falcon Amber Takeda pitches the ball during the first inning at Solano Community Mar. 25, 2014.