Bus fare riles students
3Lynn wraps up the semester
OPINION ON 7
3On pointe with Benicia ballet SPORTS ON 4
A&E ON 5
TEMPEST
THE
FAIRFIELD, CALIF. www.solanotempest.net
VOL. 29, NO. 7
THE VOICE OF SOLANO COLLEGE
DEC. 5, 2012 - FEB. 5, 2013
SCC community honors life of late math professor A large crowd turns out to honor the memory of Charlene Snow Carlo Marzan Staff Writer
“Remember my mom through learning, teaching, doing math, pigs, and being the best that you can be.”
cmarzan@solanotempest.net
Tim Hosford/Tempest
Boone Fletcher Ernst, one of Charlene Snow’s sons, addresses a large crowd at Snow’s campus memorial in the back-half of the cafeteria on Nov. 30
A standing-room only group of Solano College students, faculty, and staff came to celebrate the life of math professor Charlene Snow in the back-half of the cafeteria on Friday Nov. 30. Snow died on Oct. 17 after a brief illness. “Charlene was Charlene regardless of where she was,” said Jowel Laguerre, superintendent/president of Solano Community College, to a crowd of about 100. “We love her and she will forever be a part of Solano Community College.” “Truly great friends are hard to find, but they are impossible to forget,” said Mary Francis, Snow’s best friend. Snow’s three sons each paid respect to their mother. Boone Ernst said he would always remember his mother for being proud of everything and everyone; teachers, students, family and friends. Noah Ernst said he will never forget that it was his mother who taught him that it is through the hurt that we get better. “You can’t get better unless you do what hurts and push yourself,” Noah Ernst said.
-- Boone Fletcher-Ernst “Remember my mom through learning, teaching, doing math, pigs, and being the best that you can be,” said Boone Fletcher-Ernst. Fletcher-Ernst said that pigs were Snow’s favorite animal, and in a light-hearted tribute, he scattered a collection of stuffed pig toys on the stage. Lucas Ernst said he would never forget the times he spent playing hockey with his mother and the fact that she was the biggest fan of his music. He paid tribute to her by performing some of his music that she loved. “She believed in me all the way,” Lucas Enrst said.
Taking the world by microphone Student turns love of sports into aspirations of a dream job Meg Currier Staff Writer mcurrier@solanotempest.net
There are only a few that can rise to the challenge of the competitive world of sports broadcasting and among them is a student named Chelsey Williams. At the age of 20 and continuing her third semester at Solano, Williams is at the top of her broadcasting class, speech 75. She was raised with a family of sports fanatics, and watching and learning sports facts is a hobby she has developed. Her love of football created a passion that drove her to stop sitting on the sidelines and start becoming the center of a real game. So, when Professor Greg Poff told his sports broadcast-
ing class they would experience hands-on field work and would be covering all Solano Community College sports, Williams knew it would become an opportunity to excel. Not only does the class do all the broadcasting for Solano sports but it also does local high school sports around the Solano area. “There was not enough sports this semester at Solano due to budget cuts, so the students have to gain field work where they can, the high schools were the only option,” Williams said. “Poff has told us that it takes 100 sports broadcasts to be recognized professionally.” Poff also believes hands-on field work is the best way for students to learn, and very few community colleges offer real-life training with intensity like this kind.
MORE ONLINE AT WWW.SOLANOTEMPEST.NET - Vallejo Center open late during finals
Meg Currier/Tempest
8SEE WILLIAMS, PAGE 2
Chelsey Williams
QUOTE OF THE WEEK “If the world comes to an end, I want to be in Cincinnati. Everything comes there ten years later.” - Mark Twain
2
NEWS
Sportscaster hopes to work for ESPN in the future
THE TEMPEST n DEC. 5. 2012 - FEB. 5, 2013
Campus parking lots receive new coats of paint
7 WILLIAMS: FROM PAGE 1
Even with a great professor the broadcasting world is one that requires a lot of hard work and quick thinking. Williams knows how hard it is to memorize plays, names of players, rules of each game all while staying involved in her other classes at Solano. Williams plans to transfer to Fresno State University, says Williams. She plans to continue in the broadcasting program and acquire more resources through the bigger city connections, Williams syas. Her future dream job would be to work with ESPN and host college football games. “She is an outstanding student,” Poff Said. “She is an energetic woman, and always eager to take on an assignment,”said Poff. “She has what it takes to get to a higher level in this field. She has a tremendous drive and the ability to outwork everyone will lead her
“She has a tremendous drive and the ability to outwork everyone.” -- Greg Poff to success in her future career.” “She’s very driven and dedicated to her work, said Williams’ brother. She's one that's motivated to get the job done. I'd call her a ‘clutch performer.’ Some people say we’re almost like twins.” Those that surround Williams are clearly in awe of her talent and are willing to stand behind her quest for big time fame. Keep an eye out Solano we may be seeing Miss Chelsey Williams live in action soon, whether it’s television or radio, this woman has the means to climb all the way to the top.
Recycling big hit on campus Sharman Bruni Online Editor sbruni@solanotempest.net
Recycling is important to many people. For the sustainability committee at Solano Community College, it’s their primary goal. Working with the recycling club and clean and green committee on campus, the committee was able to sponsor the first official Earth Day on campus last April and is already planning for the next Earth Day. “We have a comprehensive program,” Professor Sandra Diehl said. “We replaced all our giant 90 gallon totes with 60 gallon totes. We’re looking to get recycling containers on each and every campus. We’re putting recycling centers in the 1400, 400, and 100 buildings.” The committee’s goal for recycling containers is to place them in the areas where the most foot traffic occurs in order to maximize efforts. The committee plans to convert garbage cans into recycling containers as well as collaborate with the recycling club on campus in efforts to make Solano greener. Although recycling club co-president Joseph Zapantis is no longer at Solano, Alex Miller has taken over and continues in his efforts to bring awareness about recycling and green living. “We are slowly going to be convert-
ing some of the stone trash bins into recycling bins,” wrote the club in an email to The Tempest. “Eventually there will be less trash cans and more recycling bins. The bins are being repainted blue to resemble the blue toters, and recycling related artwork will be displaced around the sides of the bins to let everyone know that those bins are for recycling.” Collaborating with the recycling club, the sustainability committee also plans to enter in RecycleMania (http://recyclemaniacs.org/) again. “It was our first attempt,” Diehl said, speaking of RecyleMania. “We only did bottles and cans from the recycling club. This year we have Solano Garbage with us. We’re going to compete at a different category this year. The recycling club is accepting new members and applicants can email sccrecycle@gmail.com to learn more.
Ben Gogna/Tempest
Don Pederson uses a new painting machine to re-paint the parking lines in lot 6 on the main campus. Solano was able to purchase the machine for just under $15,000. All of the parking lots have been restriped.
News Briefs Kaiser school accepting applications The Kaiser Permanente School of Health Sciences is currently accepting applications for the 2013 school year in the following subject areas: echocardiography, general sonography and nuclear medicine. For more information: www.kpsahs.com or call at 1(800) 299-0077.
Warm Clothing donations wanted
Plant sale has swags The horticulture club is holding a holiday plant sale with festivities and refreshments Dec. 6, 7 and 8 in the 1000 building. The sale includes handmade fresh green wreaths and swags, house plants, landscape plants and much more. Hours are Dec. 6, 8 a.m-8 p.m., Dec. 7, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Dec. 8, a.m.- 2 p.m. Proceeds provide scholarships, reference materials and equipment to SCC horticulture students.
Vets selling Krispy Kreme Doughnuts ASSC student government is holding a warm clothing drive through Dec 7, 2012. Donations of clean and gently used jackets, clothes, etc. will be donated to the Christian Help Center of Vallejo, Fisher House of Travis Air Force Base, and Opportunity House of Vacaville. Donation boxes are located at SCC’s Fairfield campus, as well as the Vallejo and Vacaville Centers. For more information, contact Mostafa.ghous@solano.edu or 707-864-7823.
Holiday Sock Drive Financial Aid has partnered with Mission Solano in an effort to keep toes warm and cozy this holiday season. Give the gift of happy feet this holiday by donating new socks to Mission Solano. All sizes are needed: men, women, children (newborn - preteen). Donate now through Dec 18, into barrels located in the financial aid office, building 400.
The SCC Student Veteran Organization is selling Krispy Kreme donuts and Starbucks coffee Fri. Dec 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the cafeteria.
P.U.R.E Fundraiser Solano Community College is hosting a Fundraiser for P.U.R.E (Positive, Unity, Resources and Education) Youth Group, a non-profit organization that helps youth to build character and relationships, learn coping skills and develop self-reliance. The fundraiser includes dinner, a raffle, entertainment, and vendor booths for a ticket price of $30 per person. The event is Dec. 15, 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in bldg. 1400. For more information contact: Denita Pickens-Jones (707) 470-6903 or denitapjones@yahoo.com www.pureyouthgroup.com
Briefs compiled by Virgil Talton. Staff Writer, vtalton@solanotempest.net
NEWS 3
THE TEMPEST n DEC. 5, 2012 - FEB. 5, 2013
Local Johnny Cash tribute band ready for first performance Ben Gogna Sports Editor bgogna@solanotempest.net
Vacaville — Beth Hood, player of the bass guitar, was tuning her instrument before the band started their practice. She was trying to find the E chord because she said, “It’s off.” There are five members in the Rock n’ Roll Ruby’s, Hood (former Tempest staff member) at bass, DeeDee Rowdy at rhythm guitar and lead singer, Kyree Lerret at lead guitar, Shannon Bush on washboard and Adriana Skullz on drums. The Rockin Roll Ruby’s started as an idea on a road trip to a Primer Nationals’ car show in Ventura, California to support their husbands in a Jim Rowdy Show. After years of putting up with having musicians for husbands (the good and the bad) they jokingly said, “Man, we should start our own band.” It was brought up in conversation throughout the years, but never came to fruition although it was always a dream that was shared. In May of 2012, it seemed like everyone was in the right place when Hood brought up the idea of starting a band. Things happened quickly from that point, Hood, Rowdy and Skullz met for the first practice and decided on a Johnny Cash Tribute band. “We needed a lead guitarist and called on our friend Kyree Lerret,” said Rowdy. “Shannon Bush joined shortly after on the washboard and The Rock N’ Roll Ruby’s were born.” “The easy part was over and then the hard part followed. Learning how to play the actual instruments, said Rowdy. “Luckily we all have a passion for music and our lives revolved around it for so many years that we picked it up fairly quickly. Not to mention the sweet simplicity of Johnny’s music was a great choice for us novice musicians.” Shannon Bush chose the washboard because of the simplicity and ease of the in
Submitted Photo
The Rock n’ Roll Ruby’s, from left to right (Bush, Lerret, Rowdy, Hood, Skullz). strument. The rest of the band also thought it would be a nice addition to the band. The band practices at Bush’s home and they are always welcoming feedback, support & advice whenever there is need. For Bush, she loves music and feels that there is nothing better than jamming with four amazingly talented girls who are like family. Kyree Lerret gave an intimidating stare as she said, “[Cash’s] Cocaine Blues reaches the crowds emotions.” This song was on key and true to Cash’s sound but with a feminine touch. Lerret is 23 years old and was born in Wichita, Kansas, but raised in Vacaville, California. She currently works for Benefit Cosmetics and is persuing an interior architect major at Sacramento State University. “When DeeDee first called me to play in the band, I wasn’t sure I could do it,” said Lerret. “We really want to stay true to the songs and how they were originally played.” The band wants to keep tradition with
“We really want to stay true to the songs and how they were originally played.” -- Kyree Lerret
opening with Folsom Prison Blues and ending the night with Cocaine Blues. The band is also working on combining songs with the same rhythm to be different, but they’re biggest agreement is to keep tradition. “This band was something fun for us girls to do. We’ve put our hearts in this and for me, I never thought playing music would mean as much to me as it does now,” said Lerret.
Lerret feels that it’s one of the most satisfying things she’s ever done. “I think we can all relate to being in relationships with men and standing on the side lines supporting their music, and now its our turn, and we are stoked.” Lerret had her small moments of solo performances and successfully eased through them moments with smiles. There were times she would miss a note, but the band would keep going letting her try and correct herself again until she got it right. Playing the upright bass guitar is Beth Hood, 29, previous staff writer for the Tempest. Hood is a mother of a skateboarding four-year-old boy, and is also a tattoo artist, currently working at Philthy Clean Tattoo Studio at 1703 University Ave in Berkeley, Calif. Adriana Powles, the drummer for the band is an east bay native. She’s been married for 10 years and has a sassy eight-year-old daughter. She enjoys family, friends, live music, playing the drums, make-up, tattoos, rock and roll, vintage car shows, high heels and red lipstick. She is currently working to obtain her esthetics license. Some of the songs were altered to fit the voice of Rowdy because they can’t look at a key the same way that Johnny Cash would sing and because they are women, they still want to sound cute. The band has played house parties and band practices. Their first gig is coming up in February of 2013 in Concord. It will be at a location on Monument Blvd. at the Red Hat. So far, the band has gained attention. The band was a guest on “The Skulls Show” a rock n’ roll radio show on Nov. 12, 2012. “We played a couple of acoustic songs and interviewed. From that we booked our first show at the Red Hat on Feb. 2013,” said Rowdy. “We have put in a lot of hours on our own and together at practice and are finally about ready for a performance,” said Rowdy.
Christian club welcomes Academic Success Center set to students of all beliefs
open soon on the main campus
Ashley Ching Opinion Editor aching@solanotempest.net
John Glidden News Editor jglidden@solanotempest.net
In the very near future, students at Solano Community College will have the opportunity to visit the Academic Success Center on the main campus. The ASC will assist students through the registration and enrollment processes, provide tutoring, supplemental instruction, and offer workshops, according to a PowerPoint assembled by ASC coordinator Diane White. White is also a professor of history at Solano College. “We will be "open," meaning serve as the location for, all success workshops that will begin in January and run through May 2013,” said White in an e-mail. “Over the summer, we hope to have the ASC open on a
regular basis as a place for students to come and get information about enrollment, counseling, financial aid, registration, etc...We also plan to have computers and printers available for students to download and print registration, enrollment and other kinds of forms as well.” Currently, the ASC does not have a location on the main campus but White hopes that the recent passage of Measure Q will allow for the construction of a building dedicated solely to the ASC. Measure Q is the $348 million bond which the voters of Solano County approved with 62 percent approval rating. “We would like to be very centrally located on the campus so that we serve as the academic focal point for the college and be easily ac-
cessible to students, faculty, and all members of the campus and community,” said White in the same e-mail. Presently, an ASC taskforce representing various academic and student service areas on campus has been constituted to handle the creation of the ASC. The task force has targeted the 100 building as the locale for the ASC during the spring and summer semesters. The ASC task force has also sought to add ASCs to the Vallejo and Vacaville centers, says White. “Dr. Laguerre has been very supportive,” said White in the same e-mail. “Melissa Reeve, our Basic Skills Coordinator, has been very important to this project, as her knowledge and understanding of students various needs has been invaluable in our planning.”
At the mention of religion, it can be expected for many students to grow quiet and squirm with feelings of discomfort. This is not the case for Brandon Aquinde, a nursing student who took a year off from SCC to attend vocational school. “A lot changed in me spiritually,” said Aquinde. He explained that at SCC, he was “by himself spiritually.” At his vocational school, however, he felt closer with his classmates, because they shared a common faith. This experience has led Aquinde to start his own Christian club at SCC and become one of the faces of Christian Adults in Action (CAIA). Aquinde runs CAIA with co-leader, Amanda Gearhart. Gearhart says that she goes to church several times a week to practice her faith. “God can’t be put in a box,” Gearhart said, “He should go everywhere with you.” For this reason, CAIA is hoping to have a stronger presence on campus. It’s a place where people can come together with people of similar interests. In CAIA meetings, members first engage in small talk. Then, meetings proceed with prayer and
Scripture readings. At this time, members share how each of their experiences relate to the Bible. Outside of meetings, CAIA does not plan on organizing any major events this semester. However, the club does plan on doing community service over the holiday season. CAIA offers a welcome space for any Solano student, Christian or non-Christian. “Everyone can learn from experiences, whether or not an individual has faith in a deity,” Aquinde said. “That is really the essence of the club -- to grow together in a community.” The Christian Club meets on Mondays at 12p.m. and Fridays at 1p.m. in room1427 on the main campus. For more information, contact co-leader, Amanda Gearheart at agearhart15@gmail.com.
Ben Gogna/Tempest
Brandon Aquinde and Amanda Gearhart reading stories within the Bible mid-day at Solano College on Dec. 3.
4
THE TEMPEST
Nutcracker director Margaret Kenrick teaches dancers of all ages.
THE TEMPEST n DEC. 5 - FEB. 5, 2013
ON
pointe
Tim Hosford/Tempest
Evan Johnston warms up before the first preformance of The Nutcracker at the Solano Community College Theatre on Nov 24, 2012.
Benicia ballet school director runs performances with aplomb Timothy Hosford Staff photographer thosford@solanotempest.net
Final rehearsal of the Nutcracker looks like chaos, everyone is running in different directions, but it all works like a well-oiled machine. Everything falls into place perfectly. This is director Margaret Kenrick’s fourth year directing The Nutcracker. Kenrick has been directing for 18 years and has been with the Benicia Ballet School for 22 years. This is their 22nd year doing The Nutcracker and second year with SCC. Kenrick is on the board of directors and has been a big part of the Benicia Ballet School (BBS) for many years. The BBS is a non-profit ballet and theatre school for all ages. “We have everyone from three years old into their 70s,” Kenrick said. “So no child, as they say, gets left behind, and anyone can join, as well as everyone gets to perform.”
“We have everyone from three years old into their 70s,” --Margaret Kenrick “The big thing I learned from my favorite director is to create the dance for the dancers, not push the dancers into a dance,” Kenrick said.
Tim Hosford/Tempest
Students from the Benicia Ballet school practice before the show.
Kenrick says that her parents have come to every ballet performance for the last 16 years, sometimes driving eight hours to see it. Valero, which has a refinery in Benicia, donated a grant of $12,000. “We were so surprised, it was so exciting because no one has ever donated that much,” Kenrick said. The BBS will be doing a performance of sleeping beauty with SCC in the Spring of 2013. Tim Hosford/Tempest
Anais Leal stretches out before a performance.
COFFEE BREAK 5
THE TEMPEST nDEC. 5 2012-FEB. 5 2013
Big and tall: Where are you? By Ryan Tucker Staff Writer Rtucker@solanotempest.net
Shopping for new clothes isn’t as easy as you may think. Price and personal taste go a long way when deciding what to buy, but what about size? You know … length and waist size. For the average person, this isn’t much of a problem, however if you are a big or tall guy this could be huge. No pun intended. Let’s use the Solano mall as a shopping example. Some of my favorite stores to shop at are Guess, Forever 21, American Eagle and Pac Sun. Wait … did you make the connection? Yes, they are all notorious for not catering to the big or tall man. It’s like they don’t even care. The largest size you can find in these stores are about 36-38” waist, and 33-34” length. So what’s a big guy to do? Well, more on that later. For now, let’s go straight to the source. I found two guys that fit the
description of big and tall. Josh P. Woods works in security and is majoring in Sports Medicine. Donald Young is 38 years old and stands at 6 feet, six inches. He says he’s always been a foot taller than all of his friends. I wanted to better understand the everyday struggle of the big and tall man and to also see if their struggles were similar in any way. I asked them both the same questions in an open interview. TEMPEST: What is it like to be a big or tall guy? Is it hard to find clothes you like in your size? JOSH: You know, it’s funny. I actually own a pair of Rocawear shorts that are a 36-inch waist and fit me fine. I also have a pair of Rocawear pants that are a 38-inch waist and they fit really snug. It’s hard to find balance and consistency when you’re a big guy. DONALD: Yes, it can be difficult finding clothes since all of the cool stuff are in smaller sizes.
From my experience, big and tall clothes seem to lack variety. It’s like they want to lump us all in one unified look.
JOSH: I always like to stay with a new pair of Nike dunks. Also, I like to wear pants in a wide variety of colors.
TEMPEST: Most stores at the Mall cater to people of a smaller size. Do you ever feel pressured to buy clothing that’s outside of your comfort zone in order to stay fashionable?
DONALD: I like s--t with bling. I’m tall, so that means a whole lot of material. It’s crucial to come correct or it can look bad quick.
JOSH: Yes, all the time. It’s hard to even find regular shirts, especially V-necks or fashionable hoodies. DONALD: Yes, because I want to look cool, so I always have to buy clothes that don’t always fit. I either have to sag, if the pants are too short, or wear them high if they’re too long. Basically, when you’re big or tall, you have to get used to compromising. TEMPEST: Okay, so you’re big and tall. That doesn’t mean you can’t make a fashion statement, right? Tell us what you like to rock.
Despite the difference in body types, it seems that both Josh and Donald share many of the same problems when it comes to shopping for clothes. Don’t worry big guys, there is still light at the end of this tunnel. That light is the internet! I urge you to visit these sites if you meet the big and tall challenge: •casualmale.com/Big&Tall, • RochesterClothing.com/Big&Tall, • shoesxl.com, and • torrebigandtall.com
They offer casual, formal, dress and even work styles. They also give you access to popular brands in extended sizes you would never find in a store. Watch for sales,
Josh P. Woods and you can shop all from the comfort of your own home. Lastly, if you’re a big guy and don’t yet know what your style is, I would recommend finding someone famous that matches your body type to help give you an instant blueprint of what works for you. Just remember to experiment, but stay true to your personal style. As always, never blend in, always stand out and stay swaggy Solano!
Advice for wrapping up the semester I it’s been boring and I just want him to take me out, anywhere would be good. These four walls are driving me crazy. Any ideas?
n final remembrance of our time here at Lynn’s Cafe, I would like to thank all my readers for their letters and support with my column. Through the good times and the bad times we’ve laid out the truth for all to read. I hope to leave you with more knowledge and a deeper connection to your fellow classmates. You will not be forgotten, Solano students. Thank you. -Meg Currier from Lynn’s Cafe Dear Lynn: Finals are coming up! Helppppp -Guy of Little Words Dear Guy of Little Words: Well that was a short letter but it did make me giggle for a minute. This is, however, a serious subject and must be addressed accordingly. Calm down man! Just grab a paper bag and breathe into it like they do in the movies. I do this when I’m on a plane, because I have a serious flying phobia. I understand the stress of finals because I’ve been going to college
since 2001. Finals are like second nature to me now, but this has made me a genius at navigating the system. Study, study, study ... but don’t forget to take breaks, and use a calming technique. Try video games, working on your car, or going to the movies during breaks. Most importantly, watch your sleep, you need to maintain a healthy sleep cycle for retaining information from the entire semester. Don’t go overboard on the coffee, everything in moderation works. Dear Lynn: My boyfriend always wants to hangout around the house. I’m very busy so I do get tired sometimes and don’t mind staying in. But lately
Sign up for Journalism classes for Spring 2012 -Introduction to Feature and Magazine writing 10:00 am - 10:50 am MWF Room 1626 CRN 10288 -Introduction to Mass Communication 9:30 am - 10:45 am TR Room 1860 CRN 10290 -Publications Lab (Be a part of The Tempest staff) 12:00 pm - 1:50 pm MWF Room 1861 Laboratory/Studio/Activity CRN 10289 or 11441
-Cabin Fever Dear Cabin Fever: This guy seems like a homebody if you ask me. He might not like the crowds or he may be hiding the fact that he is low on funds to take you out. Sometimes men don’t want to appear vulnerable, and they don’t want to let their women down. He might want to take you but these things could be holding him back. Let him know nicely that you enjoy having alone time with him but that seeing friends and being outdoors would be a fun endeavor too. If worse comes to worse and he still doesn’t get it, you really should just let him know you will be taking yourself out or make plans with a female friend. I bet he will miss you so much that next time he will rise to the occasion to take you out into the sunshine. Dear Lynn:
Don’t know how I’m going to afford Christmas this year. I have a tall plant in my house, can I just decorate it like a Christmas tree? LoL Whatcha think? I’m so broke this year. : ( -Christmas Slums Dear Christmas Slums: That sounds like a great idea, and a very creative one. When you’re low on funds it’s good to invent your own homemade solution. With today’s economy I’m sure that more people are looking for ways to cut spending costs for the holidays. I also think that non-traditional ways of doing the holidays can be refreshing. Who says you can’t change the rules of Christmas? You should be able to celebrate differently than the masses if you choose. Thank you for writing in to me, you just gave me a great idea for my house. I’m thinking Christmas cactus! Why not? Lynn’s cafe is written by Meg Currier, email her at mcurrier@solanotempest.net
6
THE TEMPEST n DEC. 5 - FEB. 5, 2013
OPINION Scams to start-ups: a job seeker’s journey I slammed my alarm clock and dragged myself out of bed. It was 10am on yet another Monday, and I still had no reason to get up. Grade school, middle school, high school, college. What was it all for? Where were the jobs? I plopped myself in front of the computer and decided to begin By Ashley Ching my search. Craigslist was my first Opinion Editor stop. With a degree in social sciaching@solanotempest.net ence, I customized a handful of resumes. New York City, Seattle, Business was good, but by the and other metropolitan areas end of the school year, it began would be bombarded with the to slow down. I began to wonder five applications I sent daily. I’d make sure the job market would what I would do with my time, when suddenly, a single thought validate entered my mind, completely my existence. revolutionizing my job search. I refreshed my Facebook again Internships. and again, Sure, I had waiting for a “What could be slaved in a response from thankless, my dream combetter than unpaid internpany. Finally, I sitting in my ship before, but started seeing time would results. E-mails pajamas making this be different. I flooded my inbank?” took the time box. Voicemail to explore all flooded my cell the options on phone. EmployInternships.com, and I checked ers wanted me! the boxes for “Paid” and “TeleI had my choice of three commuting.” What could be promising opportunities, but I better than sitting in my pajamas knew what I wanted. It was the making bank? marketing I responded to at least a dozen campaign against childhood obesity, located conveniently in San opportunities, when one e-mail Francisco. My employee parking showed up in my inbox. The biopharmaceutical consulting spot was practically ready. company, Delta Project ManageThe career and location ment, had expressed an interest, seemed perfect until a knot of and I would be their first interdoubt began to develop in my viewee on Monday morning. mind. How credible was this “How was your day?” two job, really? I raced to Glassdoor. principals asked. “Excellent,” I com and flew my fingers across gushed. “Recently I visited my the keyboard. The website relocal park and recruited seven viewed companies from employnew piano students.” I began ees’ perspectives and revealed my shameless tirade of just how what I had most feared. This soI could prove value to their called dream job was a scheme. company. A door-to-door. A scam. Delta called a week later with I was inconsolable for days. “Wait, are you actually crying?” outstanding news. Officially, thankfully, luckily, an employer my friend asked. “You didn’t had called me their own. In lose a boyfriend, you lost a job. four months I would grow from It’s just work.” He was right. Forget answering a paid intern to a member of personnel. to a boss. I would be my own. The job search was a long I started my own business and journey, but finally, I had offered piano lessons, tutoring reached its destination. and even life coaching.
Digon3/Wikipedia
San Francisco is a popular spot for new college graduates looking for a job.
Time to honor the first responders
The 9/11 Memorial in New York City
Remembering patriot day
ter was burning and approached collapse, firefighters and police officers entered the buildings to rescue those trapped inside. Nearly four hundred of these first responders did not make it out To mark the tenth anniversary alive. These fallen firefighters and of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, police officers gave their I traveled to lives to save thousands Manhattan and others.” stood with my The number 343 has fellow Ameribecome sacrosanct in the cans as we stood parlance of fire departblocks away from ments and associated with ground zero. first responders because it The general represents the number of public could not New York City firefightget closer to the ers who died on 9/11. In somber rememBy John Glidden addition, 72 law enforcebrance being News Editor ment officers were killed held at the new jglidden@solanotemon 9/11 – making it the 9/11 Memorial. pest.net deadliest day in American law enforcement history, On my last day according to National Law in New York Enforcement Officers Memorial City, I was able to secure a pass to the 9/11 Memorial. I am woefully Fund website. unable to describe my feelings Currently, Congress is mulling while standing in the memorial. over a national first responders apIt is cliché but you have to be preciation day to take place in late there to really experience the full September. I applaud the idea force and magnitude of 9/11 and of such a day; however, the date the lives lost that fateful day. is wrong. The date of September The one thing I do remember 11 should be feeling was the sense of sadmade a fedness that no national holiday or eral holiday to event celebrates the courage and honor the first fortitude of first responders like responders of firefighters, police officers, ambuthis nation. lance workers. Sept. 11 is The following statement dated also known Sept. 11, 2006 is found on Conas patriot day. gressman Wally Herger’s website. While this Herger represents the CA 2nd District (portion of Siskiyou, Trin- distinction ity, Shasta, Tehama, Butte, Glenn, may inspire pride in other Colusa, Yuba, Sutter, and Yolo Americans – I counties). find it quite “Even as the World Trade Cen-
John Glidden/Tempest
lacking. It seems inadequate to use an omnibus term for such an important day. I wish I could buttress my argument with a special term to describe the first responders who gave their lives that day. I can’t; the term ‘heroes’ seems lacking, too insignificant to describe the actions of these individuals. While they are indeed heroes they were much more: fathers, husbands, uncles, sons, mothers, sisters, wives. They gave their lives while performing their duties. It’s time that we honor the first responders of this nation. Not with an obscure date in September but on a day which demonstrated the fortitude, and courage of these responders. So the next time you are driving and you have to pull over because a fire engine has its lights and siren on, remember, before you get annoyed, these individuals are doing good. They are out to save lives. That is always a good thing. Now it’s time we honor these individuals.
John Glidden/Tempest
The lives of 343 firefighters are honored in this memorial.
OPINION 7
THE TEMPEST n DEC. 5 - FEB. 5, 2013
Fear and loathing on Route 7 The 85 rumbles past me as it drives into the sunset. It’s a beautiful machine. Sleek and pearly white, it is about a story and a half tall. She’s fast for her size. She can make it from campus to the Solano mall in ten minutes, but alas, that quick trip is denied me. Solano County Transit, in its infinite wisdom, has decided to raise the fare from $1.75 to $5 within Fairfield (a move that has been described by a classmate and fellow bus rider Carissa Demasi as “Bull----”).
packed to the gills with middle schoolers. There wasn’t a single place to sit down, and I had to stand in the back, holding on for dear life to keep from crashing down on the swarms of humans.
BySam Zaghloul Features Editor szaghloul@solanotempest.net
So, I switched to an alternate bus -- the Route 7. It’s a half hour from the campus to the mall, and the thing passed through Green Valley middle school beforehand. When I finally boarded, it was
Tim Hosford/Tempest
The bus fare from SCC to the Solano mall now costs $5.
“I had to walk home with my hand shaped like a crab claw. ” With each stop, three people boarded, forcing me farther and farther into the back, the scent of adolescents and angst filling my nostrils. I remember seeing a few kids punching and threatening each other, and I couldn’t tell whether they were playing or seriously trying to hurt each other. After half an hour of being surrounded by screeching children who would drop n-bombs like they were going out of style, I finally managed to get home. My hands had been gripping the pole for so long, that I couldn’t ungrasp them. I had to walk home with my hand shaped like a crab claw. The next day, only five people got on the 85. It looked… lonely.
campus calendar Wed. Dec. 5
Mon. Dec. 10
SCC Choirs 7:30 p.m. 1200 building
SCC Jazz & Steel Drum Band 7p.m. 1200 Building
Mental Health First Aid 9a.m. - 1p.m. Aldea 470 Chadbourne Rd., Fairfield Toastmasters public speaking club Weekly, Wed. 12p.m. Solano County Health Dept. 275 Beck Ave, Fairfield Contact: (510) 484-4513
Thur. Dec. 6
SCC Veterans’ Brown Bag Lunch 12p.m. 600 Building Community Services Foundation meeting 12p.m. Fairfield Community Center 1000 Kentucky Street, Fairfield Contact: (707) 428-7466
Tue. Dec . 11- Mon. Dec. 17 SCC final exams Thur. Dec. 13 SCC priority registration
Sat. Dec. 15 - Sun. Jan 6* Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Jingle Bell Rock dance show 3:30p.m., 5:30p.m. *Closed Dec. 24 & 25
Sat. Dec. 15
Elegance Dinner Fundraiser 5p.m. SCC Cafeteria
Fri. Dec. 7
Krispy Kreme Fundraiser 8:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. 1400 Lobby Solano Film Fest - Free 7p.m. Suisun Harbor Theater 720 Main Street, Suisun City
Vivaldi’s Gloria & The Many Mood of Christmas #1 Solano Choral Society w/ Solano Symphony 8 p.m. 1200 Building
campus conversation
Do you think the world is going to end on Dec. 21, 2012?
“Nothing is going to happen on Dec. 21,2012”.
“I think the Mayans interpreted the calendar wrong. I don’t believe that the world is going to end.”
“Why would it? Designed to cause controversy and panic among the people. Also to prey on people’s fear.”
“Don’t believe it because they have announced multiple times that the world is going to end and nothing happened.”
“The word has been around for a long time. Therefore, I highly doubt it’s going anywhere anytime soon.”
-Kayla Diaz, 19 Undecided
-Laura Maciel, 18 Biology
-Jim Bennett, 59 Administration
-Lauren Sunga, 20 Media Communications
-Elizabeth Franco, 18, Nursing
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
Larry Ragland editor-in-chief staff writers: Ashley Ching Meg Currier Patrick Finnigan Carlo Marzan Max Shepherd Ryan Tucker Virgil Talton in memory of Jordan Rosario
news editor: John Glidden opinion editor: Ashley Ching sports editor: Ben Gogna features editor: Sam Zaghloul online editor: Sharman Bruni photo editor: Bradley Mossman
staff photographers: Jessica Martinez Tim Hosford *
*
*
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
8
THE TEMPEST n DEC 5 - FEB. 5, 2013
SPORTS Washington has set a goal to play for Xavier University Ben Gogna Sports editor bgogna@solanotempest.net
With an aspiration to play volleyball for Xavier University of Louisiana, coached by Christabell Hamilton, Pilar Washington, a second year student at Solano Community College and 2nd team all league in her freshman year is currently a dominating force. Her position of middle hitter/blocker playing under coach Darla Williams is where she plays and where she leads her team in the league with 59 blocks in conference. High school is where Washington started with her athletic dreams and goals with volleyball even though her first sport was soccer. Washington has played volleyball since her sophomore year for Hercules Middle High School in 2009. It was there she made 2nd team all league in her senior year leading the Titans to the playoffs. Washington’s dream now is to play through college at XULA. Her goal is to show head coach Christabell Hamilton that she has what it takes and deserves a chance to prove her worth and
A CLOSER LOOK Pilar Washington set a new school record with 11 blocks in the match against Napa on October 26. The previous record was 10 blocks set in 1999. that she can be a helpful asset to the Gold Nuggets. Currently, Washington plays under coach Williams for the Falcons and one of her other assets she contributes to the team is, “Getting it done,” Washington said. Every time Washington substitutes into a game, she thinks to herself, “Have to get this point. We need to change the score.” Washington says, “When coach says do something, do it.” “We are a goofy team which teams tend not to take us seriously,” Washington said. The Falcons have bonded well, sometimes too emotionally, which has affected previous games. The love between the girls is strong
and it shows. Washington states, “For being an all freshman team, we did pretty good last year and I believe we did even better this year.” Most all the team has been playing together for the second consecutive year. Solano entered playoffs, but lost in the first round to Feather River on Nov. 20.
“When coach says do something, do it.” -- Pilar Washington
Washington wanted to share with her fellow team, “I freaking love you guys,” and “Thank you coach Williams for always letting me come into your office and talk and bother you. Thank you for making me the player I am today and always believing in me on and off the court.” Pilar Washington set a new school record with 11 blocks in the match against Napa on October 26. The previous record was 10 blocks set in 1999.
Ben Gogna/Tempest
Pilar Washington celebrates after scoring a point against College of the Siskiyous during the first game of the Solano-Falcon Classic on Sept. 12, 2012.
Solano loses 3-1 in the first round of the playoffs to #2 San Francisco Ben Gogna Sports editor bgogna@solanotempest.net
San Francisco — The #14 ranked Falcons (11-7-3, 9-1-2 BVC) were beaten by #2 Rams 3-1 in the first round of the 2012 Women’s Regional Brackets – North Region on Saturday November 17 in San Francisco. With the sky giving way from what had been rain for the past few hours, both teams were excited that the weather had shifted and there became a chance to play the first match of the playoffs. Solano’s head coach Jeff Cardinal was making the line up, both assistant coaches were leading the ladies through pregame drills and the goalie, Katie Wright was warming up taking practice shots at the net. When asked, coach Cardinal said, “Ready for Playoffs.” The Falcons pressured offensively
through the entire 90 minutes, having plenty of chances including multiple corner kicks, but was unable to complete, but three chances. Solano’s only goal came off a defender (own goal) during the first half. “We had plenty of drives, but we didn’t put the ball in goal,” coach Cardinal said. “Ball movement and scoring opportunities and set plays, we created plenty of those.” Cardinal said, “If we put those set plays away in the first half, it would have made a big difference.” The game had a lot of drives both ways and the play looked rough. A lot of bangs and crashes with City College of San Francisco driving down one side, crossing a pass to the middle and would attack. This method helped the Rams come back and take a 3 – 1 lead, eventually winning the game and moving on to the second round.
Tim Hosford/Tempest
City College of San Francisco’s Crystal Zeledon (third from right) puts teams third and final goal in the net past goal-keeper Katie Wright (far right) in the second half of the playoff game capping off the Falcons 3-1 loss in San Francisco on November 17.
SPORTS 9
THE TEMPEST n DEC. 5 - FEB. 5, 2012
Volleyball
Falcons volleyball goes 19-9 ending their season in the first round of the NCC playoffs The Solano Community College womens volleyball team finished 19-9 overall and 13-3 in league play. Going 11-4 in their last 15 games of the season, the Falcons lost to Feather River in the first round of the Northern California Conference playoffs on November 20 in three sets. The Falcons dominated and won both matches played against Contra Costa, Marin, Mendocino, Alameda, Los Medanos and Laney. Solano split matches with Napa and only lost both to Yuba College, the Bay Valley Conference leader. The lady Falcons were hopeful of advancing farther in the playoffs.
COMPLETE
YOUR DEGREE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO IN
PLEASANTON or
SACRAMENTO
Basketball Schedule
Men’s and Women’s Solano Falcons basketball schedule December 7-9
Men - Fri-Sun Women
Foothill Tourn. Solano Showdown
Foothill Solano
TBA TBA
December 14
Men
Skyline
Skyline
6:00 PM
December 18
Men
Reedly
Solano
6:00 PM
Dec 28-30
Women
Mike Gervasoni Mem. Cupertino
TBA
Bay Valley Conference January 2
Men Women
Yuba College Yuba College
Solano Solano
7:30 PM 5:30 PM
January 4
Men Women
Alameda College Alameda 7:00 PM Laney College Oakland 6:00 PM
January 8
Men Women
Napa College Napa College
Solano Solano
7:30 PM 5:30 PM
January 10
Men Women
Mendocino Mendocino
Solano Solano
7:30 PM 5:30 PM
January 12
Men Women
Los Medanos Los Medanos
Pittsburg 7:30 PM Pittsburg 5:30 PM
January 15
Men Women
Marin College Solano College of Marin Solano
January 17
Men Women
Merritt College Oakland 7:30 PM Merritt College Oakland 5:30 PM
January 23
Men Women
Contra Costa Contra Costa
Solano Solano
January 25
Men Women
Yuba College Yuba College
Marysville 7:30 PM Marysville 5:30 PM
January 30
Men Women
Alameda Laney College
Solano Solano
7:30 PM 5:30 PM
7:30 PM 5:30 PM
7:30 PM 5:30 PM
Tempest cartoonist takes fourth place in national competition Former Tempest cartoonist, Phil Temple has won fourth place in a national competition. Temple's 'Community College' board game, which appeared as a two-page spread in the May 9, 2012 issue beat out cartoons from student newspapers at four-year universities across the nation, including UCLA, University of Illinois, Loyola Marymount, University of Texas and Indiana University, in the Associated Collegiate Press 2012 national awards competition.
ACP is the oldest and largest national membership organization for college student journalists.
TRANSFER TO A DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM • Small Classes • Outstanding faculty with academic and real-world expertise • Degree options in Communication, Psychology, and Management
• Financial aid and scholarships available • Classes start in January and August LEARN MORE
www.usfca.edu/regions
CHANGE THE WORLD FROM HERE
san fr ancisco
s a n ta r o s a
san jose
sacr amento
pleasanton
10
THE TEMPEST nDEC. 5 2012-FEB. 5 2013
FEATURES Halo 4 delivers on all fronts By Larry Ragland Editor-in-chief Lraglan@solanotempest.net
Halo fans freaked out like grunts without a leader when they found out that Bungie was handing over the Halo franchise to another developer. Many thought that justice could not be done. They were wrong. The story picks up four years after the end of Halo 3. When the Master chief says “Wake me when you need me,” he means it, and he comes out of a good night’s sleep ready to snap some Sangheili mandibles. If you haven’t played the other games, don’t worry, the story is self-encapsulated. There is plenty of stuff to keep you more than satisfied Good thing this is the start of a trilogy. Visually, this is the best-looking console game on the market, regardless of platform. It is a testament to the art and technical teams working together to get the most out of the 360 this late in the console’s life cycle. Everything is gorgeous. The lighting, armor detail, particle affects, animations--dear God the animations!--they really went all out. When you see Captain Del Rio lose it, you’ll know what I mean. Plug that puppy up HDMI style and get to work because this is a beautiful game. And I hope you have a good home audio setup. Even more impressive than the graphics is the sound design. The new soundtrack gives the game that big-time Hollywood feel without straying too far from acceptable Halo music. To complement the sense of scale between the MC and the various foes he
will face the characters are built to size. Elites, Knights and Hunters are taller. The sound balances this out because instead of feeling overwhelmed by these menacing alien foes, you know you have a fighter yet from the freaking future strapped to your chest and you’re not afraid to show it. The chief’s heavy foot falls and motor actuators move with a muffled mechanical sound that promotes feelings of mass and weight while being a stealthy military killing machine. In layman’s terms you feel like the baddest man on the planet and you sound like it too. Gameplay still offers that core Halo feel but it’s tweaked in enough ways to make it different yet familiar. Your overall movement seems faster. You have Call of Duty-like perks but the object isn’t to stack them and overpower your enemies it’s to help you best adapt to the situation and help your team win. Your perks, as they were, won’t let you call in air support and the like but it will give you what you need when you need it. This helps maintain the balance in Halo. The single player will take you about seven or eight hours on normal to finish. The difficulty ramps up significantly for Heroic and Legendary. There are a bunch of new multiplayer editions and the really cool Spartan Ops mode that replaces Firefight. The format is the same but it’s story driven. Each week an ultra-high quality CGI cut scene continues the story of H4 six months after the ending of the game. Halo 4 is more than worth the money. Go buy it. Halo 4 is more than worth the money.
Microsoft/ Studio 343
“FDR: American Badass” a bit of a crude, spoof comedy, but funny By Maxwell Shepherd Staff Writer Mshephard@solanotempest.net
You could say this is a biopic about Franklin Delano Roosevelt fighting against the Axis powers during WWII and you wouldn’t really be lying, but it would probably be one of the most boring and misleading ways to describe this feature. Largely because you would be leaving out details of the plot like The Axis powers all being werewolves and FDR literally fighting them with wheelchair mounted weaponry. If you want to watch a straight-laced biopic about the famed former president you should run away from this movie as fast as you can. If you enjoy insanely nonsensical outrageous comedy with some gratuitous gore thrown in, then this is the movie for you.
A Common Thread films
No wonder he got four terms
This film manages to make its small budget work. It is filmed mostly on cheap and obviously staged sets, but the production design adds uniqueness and a cartoonish tone that helps amplify the humor of the film.
“FDR: American Badass” is a little bit crude spoof comedy in the vein of the Scary Movie franchise, and a little bit modern over-the-top exploitation you find in movies from the Grind House series of films (Planet Terror, Machete, Hobo With a Shotgun). It manages to make its small budget work. It is filmed mostly on cheap
The cast does contain a number of veteran characters actors who all seems to be having a lot of fun with the ridiculous dialog exchanges and scenarios. and obviously staged sets, but the production design adds uniqueness and a cartoonish tone that helps amplify the humor of the film. There are no big names, but the cast does contain a number of veteran characters actors who all seems to be having a lot of fun with the ridiculous dialog exchanges and scenarios. Barry Bostwick (of Rocky Horror Picture Show, Project Metal Beast and Spin City fame) stars as the titular character. I doubt you will find much in common between Bostwick’s version of FDR and the real thing, but the movie certainly isn’t striving for historical accuracy. Bostwick’s performance is outstanding. He steals every scene he is in, and is clearly relishing the absurd nature of the material. His turn as “The Delano” reminded me of Leslie Nelson in his prime, but
it reminded of Barry Bostwick is his prime more so. Also present are Ray Wise, as General Douglas “Dougie Mac”MaCarthur and Kevin Sorbo (Of Hercules: The Legendary Journeys) as a THC induced hallucination of Abraham Lincoln. Or maybe he was supposed to be Abraham Lincoln’s ghost? I’m not sure. Watch this movie, it’s funny.
FEATURES 11
THE TEMPEST nDEC. 5 2012-FEB. 5 2013
The WiiU Arrives By Patrick Finnigan Staff Writer pfinnigan@solanotempest.net
Nintendo has always been known as a sort of innovator in the video game market. Its first home console, the Nintendo Entertainment System was the console that saved the market from the Video Game Crash of 82, where it became a household name. Nintendo went on to produce the Nintendo 64, the first console that utilized 3D graphics, something that was only known in PC systems before then. And more recently, Nintendo developed the first console to utilize motion control, the Nintendo Wii. And now, Nintendo has released another creation that is bound to turn the market on its head again: The Wii U. The first thing people would notice about the Wii U is the controller, which sports a fairly large 6.2 inch high definition touchscreen. Using the screen is fairly easy, as it provides a very useful second view of the menu system and games, as well as providing the user with a large arrangement of options. It’s The Wii U also provides many services straight from the menu, such as a social networking system known as Miiverse, where players can chat and discuss Wii U games and get helpful tips from each other, a Web Browser, where users can go on the internet and surf the web or look up useful information about games, and Amazon Video, Netflix, and Hulu Plus apps that provide a wide range of video options, which really takes out the sting of the console not having DVD or BluRay support (although you might want to avoid the YouTube app, the browser version is much better). It shouldn’t matter, because this console is very powerful, sporting both IBM Power Architec-
ture-based multi-core processor and an AMD Radeon High Definition [3] with an eDRAM cache built onto the die. Needless to say, this system is packing some heat. I found that the controller was very nice in the hands, and the touchscreen was very responsive in both casual use and in gameplay, and the processing power of the Wii U was just as good as its competitors There are only a few minor problems with the console that I’ve seen, though. For one, the screen resolution is ill fitting to some TV sets, as
Batman Arkham City Armored edition: played on the Wii U
the image is somewhat too big for the screen, causing edge cutoff. As of publication I have not been able to figure out a solution to this problem, as it seems my TV wouldn’t allow me to change the settings. It might have something to do with the fact that I’m using an HDMI cord for my Wii U, but it’s a major bother regardless. Another gripe is that the controller can’t hold much of a charge. It’s a blessing to know that the controller has an independent charging cord, but this is a similar issue that Nintendo Nintendo’s latest handheld, the 3DS, The new Wii U console comes with its own screen. had. Hopefully it’s only a matter of time before there is a third-party battery upgrade available, but until then, owners will have to deal. To better understand the Wii U’s capabilities, I bought a copy of Batman: Arkham City Armored Edition THE GOOD: Amazing controller, beautiful graphics for the console. The game runs great THE BAD: TV screen size issues, controller battery on the Wii U, and the graphical life is subpar quality was amazing. Characters and THE UGLY: The harrowing feeling of whether or not environments look just as good here this system will be plagued with horribly licensed as they would on other consoles, games like the Wii. and the new controls that utilize the gamepad work swimmingly. Gadgets can be switched out on the fly and assigned to a certain button on the D pad, and be ready to go in no time. Intuitive controls for gadgets like the Remote Controlled Batarang and the Explosive Gel can be controlled by the gamepad’s gyroscopic and touchscreen controls, respectively.
Wii U
You play as the Caped Crusader after your alter ego, Bruce Wayne, was suddenly thrown into a prison city known as Arkham City, and it’s up to you to uncover the mysterious plot set forth by the city’s controller, Doctor Hugo Strange. The game takes you across the expansive city of Arkham City, fighting iconic villains such as the Joker, Two Face, and the Penguin, as well as meet up with allies like Cat Woman and Robin. The game throws many creative and challenging obstacles your way, whether its stealth-based missions where you pick off armed enemies one-by-one, going toe-to-toe with monstrous foes, or using your gadgets and with to solve mysteries, this game is packed with challenges, and with a plethora of special features and trophies, there is quite a bit to do.
Solano Choral Society holding two holiday concerts
The Wii U is yet another innovation in Nintendo’s history to create new ways to play games, and this console is no exception. Sure, it has a few flaws, but they are by no means game breakers, and they can be either fixed or be ignored all together. The price is a bit steep at $300 a pop, but it’s worth every penny to get a fine console such as this one.
The Solano Choral Society, in conjunction with the Solano Community Symphony, is holding two holiday concerts: Sat. Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. in the SCC Theater, and Sun. Dec. 16 at 3 p.m. at the Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre. The Solano Choral Society is directed by Kristy Juliano, and the symphony is directed by Semyon Lohss. Tickets are $15 students, $25 seniors/military, and $28 regular.
The SCC Film program: A journey-Part 3 By Maxwell Shepherd Staff Writer
Solano Film Fest
Mshepherd@solanotempest.net
Editor’s Note: this is the third part of Max Shepherd’s story about the film program. Read parts one and two at: solanotempest.net Cinema 016 yielded many interesting experiences and film projects. On the set of the short film “Human Root” I got to see a bunch of people dressed as zombies dancing like Michael Jackson. At one point I and a friend were forced to go on a late-night, illicit watermelon procurement mission. The watermelons were meant to be stand-ins for zombie heads in a film that never materialized called “AZDEF: The Anti-Zombie Defense and Engagement Force training video.” “Dopplebots” was about a robot doppelganger taking a robo-dump on somebody’s floor, and leaving his human counterpart to take the blame. “Pete: Wizard for Hire” followed a day in the life of Wizard
This semester’s film fest takes place on Friday, Dec. 7 at the Suisun Harbor Theater; beginning at 7 p.m. Admission is free. By Maxwell Shepherd staff writer mshepherd@ solanotempest.net
How often would you dress up as a wizard and pretend be drunk in a park filled with people who have no idea what the hell you’re doing or why? Pete, an alcoholic degenerate wizard for hire who uses his control over mystical forces to blow up a noisy dog, then goes on a day-long drug binge before passing out in a park. When we filmed Alden Tat-
um’s “3rd Floor,” I was privileged enough to bear witness to two people constructing an impromptu pants-wetting apparatus. How often would you get to film somebody pretending to be a robot pooping on the floor? Or watch zombies engage in an organized, choreographed, dance number? How often would you dress up as a wizard and pretend be drunk in a park filled with people who have no idea what the hell you’re doing or why? Or explain to a cop that, no, there wasn’t an accident, it’s just make-up. During my final semester I worked on my friend Tyler Manzo’s, final short film project “Sam Raymond and the Post Break up Zombie De-
pression.” It was on the set of this film that I met Steven Ng who, with Roberto Berrios, went on to found Room 121 Productions who I have been working with for this past year. Some people might think we’re chasing impossible dreams, but I’m sure people thought the same of Joe Carnahan, who went on to become a notable filmmaker after graduating from Solano College. “The Grey was directed by one of our own alumni,” Berrios said. “Little did I know this small college, in a town most can barely find in the map, could have such an impact on the world at large.” Today a framed poster of Carnahan’s film, Narc, hangs in SCC’s studio 121, reminding the students
to aim for goals that many might consider impossible. I am encouraged to find that there are still passionate young students who are starting out their film and television careers at Solano, such as current Cinema 016 student, Jeremy Grant. “I enjoy the program,” Grant said. It helps me with my projects and now I pay attention to shows better in respect to camera angles.” Jeremy started taking cinema classes shortly after I finished, and has encountered many of the same problems apparently all amateur filmmakers do. “There are times when I forget my batteries. Actors do not read scripts. In my opinion don’t work with a lot of people because schedules conflict a lot.” In Cinema 016 the students have the option of screening their short films in a theater in front of a crowd of people. This mini filmfest served as the finale for every semester in the film program. I haven’t been to the film fest since I finished cinema 016, but I remember it fondly.
12
THE TEMPEST nDEC 5 2012-FEB 5 2013
FEATURES A sense of
style By Ryan Tucker Staff writer rtucker@solanotempest.net.
Hey guys and gals.This is Ryan here with another fashion spotlight. I have to say, writing for The Tempest has been a great experience. I have had the pleasure of meeting really cool people who share in what I like to do. Also, I have had the pleasure of meeting lots of fellow students in articles and spotlights such as this one. I truthfully love fashion. It’s not just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. Looking good and sharing your creativity with the world is something I strive to do every day. So when I see that same kind of drive and swagger around the campus, it always brings a smile to my face. My latest spotlight can be seen strutting her style around campus in playful and creative outfits. She is unafraid of using a variety of colors in her style, and most importantly seems very confident in her own skin.
Ben Gogna/Tempest
Lauren Nolasco says she likes to experiment with colors and patterns. “Never be afraid to try different things you can always make something your own.”
--Lauren Nolasco SCC student
LAUREN: well … I like to wear tie-dye clothes and all denim.
LAUREN: My major is biology and I hope to transfer in the summer. In my spare time I enjoy music and art.
TEMPEST: Are there any fashion rules you never break?
TEMPEST: What does fashion mean to you?
TEMPEST: What’s the most recent trend that you like or dislike?
LAUREN: Fashion allows people to create their own style and personal identity.
LAUREN: Color block was pretty cool.
LAUREN: I just like to experiment with colors and patterns. I believe that anything that catches my eye is fair game.
Ben Gogna/Tempest
“Fashion allows people to create their own personal identity.”
TEMPEST: Tell us a little about yourself.
TEMPEST: Describe your personal style.
SCC biology major Lauren Nolasco says she likes vintage clothing.
FASHION Spotlight
LAUREN: Umm … probably not.
TEMPEST: Are there any items of clothing you wish men/women would wear more of or less of? LAUREN: I wish men and women would wear more professional clothing.
TEMPEST: Do you have any favorite designers or places to shop?
TEMPEST: If you could buy any one thing fashion related what would that be?
LAUREN: Not really. I just like vintage clothing.
LAUREN: A really nice colored purse.
TEMPEST: What’s the first thing that catches your eye in another person’s outfit?
TEMPEST: Any last words of encouragement for your fellow trend setters or Fashionistas.
LAUREN: How they mix and match colors, prints, and patterns to form an outfit.
LAUREN: Never be afraid to try different things you can always make something your own.
TEMPEST: Any fashion rules you break?