Issue 03, Volume 51

Nov. 9, 2016

www.thegrcurrent.com

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thecurrent the student newspaper of green river college

Aart Boer | The Current

currentcampus

currenta&e

currentopinion

Look at the election from a student’s eyes

Celebrating Smoothies

The Current discuses the presidential election

Look at the machine that sold 10,000 smoothies at GRC.

Editors speak out about concerns of the election.

Learn the story of an international student during this election year.

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Melanie Bell| Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Event Calendar Nov

Veterans Day

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Campus closed

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Volunteer Fair

Annie Chan | The Current

Club start-ups follow successful club fair By: Annie Chan Staff Writer The fall club fair was held on October 27 as both new and returning clubs prepared for their first meetings.

Thirty-four clubs were at the club fair last fall with an estimation of around 275 students participating.

This year, there is a record number of clubs in terms of forms. Forty two clubs turned in their start-up forms and participated in the fair this quarter.

Booths were set up in the Gator Hall inside of the Student Union building. Both new and returning clubs and organizations were given the chance to explain what they are about. Free games and snacks were provided by club members to further engage with students.

Clubs serve as platforms for students to home their skills and share their creativity with one another.

Each individual club raised that awareness while they promoted students to become members of

of their group.

This event is “incredibly exciting,” according to Melissa Archuleta, the program coordinator for student life. Members tend to get cre-

“By joining clubs, I can make new friends and be involved in my college.”

- Masha Hoffman

ative with cool posters and small demonstrations when presenting their club.

“Our main goal for the club fair is to really raise awareness that we do have clubs and there are places for students to express themselves,” Archuleta said. “A lot of students have some really good interests so let’s get out there and see what other students share those interests and start a group.”

More than 500 students were involved in clubs last year. The number is expected to increase

since this year started. Archuleta is looking forward to work with all the students in the clubs and organizations this year.

“Clubs give students a commitment to the college,” Archuleta said. “We are a majority commuter college so clubs are a way to build a greater community and a greater appreciation for attending Green River. They give students something to look forward to other than just attending classes and that makes a difference.”

Clubs have been ratified and started up the first week of November. Members of clubs spent a lot of time preparing posters and arranging meeting rooms in October.

Students have been looking forward to seeing what clubs they could potentially join that share their interests.

“I have classes spread out throughout the day so it would be good to know if there are clubs I could be a part of during my breaks,” Masha Hoffman, a second-year transfer student said. “By joining clubs, I can make new

friends and be involved in my college,” Hoffman said.

Returning clubs present included both the Asian and Latino Student Unions, SMILE Club, Forestry Club, TOMS Clubs and First Nations.

New clubs students introduced to the student body included Chess Club, Volleyball Club, and the Writing Club. Both The Current and the Student Government were also in attendance Students are still free to start up clubs even after ratified clubs have started the first week of November.

Archuleta accepts club start-up forms throughout the fall and winter quarters. New clubs will have a chance to participate in the second club fair during the winter quarter.

For a complete list of clubs and organizations with their locations and meeting times, students can go to the Student Life Office, which is located on the second floor of the Student Union building.

Any students that is wishing to start a club can also obtain more information and pick up their startup forms at the Student Life Office.

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Film Screening: Undocumented @ Student Union 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Free

Intro to Fencing @ Sign up online: greenriver.edu/ campus-life 12:45 - 6:00 pm $20/$35

Thanksgiving

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Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead

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Annie Chan | The Current

@ bus circle 11:30 am - 2:00 pm Free Event

@Bless PAC 7:30 PM Free /$5/$10

Fiddler on the Roof @ wPA 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm $10/$12

campus Transgender spokesperson visits Green River thecurrent

Melanie Bell| Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

By: Amethyst Mcknight Staff Writer Geena Rocero is a transgender model who advocates for transgender equality. She is the founder of Gender Proud, an organization for transgender rights. They advocate for policies and produce media about gender-transforming.

They have won several awards for their work. As a result of Geena’s work, she has had the opportunity to travel all around the world.

Rocero spoke in the Student Union building at Green River College on Nov. 3, 2016 from 7 to 8 p.m.

Rocero spoke about the Philippine history/culture of transgender people.

“I’m standing here as a proud transgender woman of color. It took me a long time to get to this point to say.

It’s important to figure out the identity in which I figure out the world, and how the world identifies with me”, she said.

When I was 7 years old, I was

“People started screaming. People were screaming ‘You were born a man.

You are a man’...”

- Geena Rocero

watching a transgender beauty pageant. I remember the women started coming and introducing themselves, and I remember this one particular woman, I felt a con-

nection with her... I felt at that age, I could be just like her, maybe I am her, maybe who she is, is me...

This lady ended up winning... the next thing I know bottles were being thrown at her, chairs were everywhere. People started screaming. People were screaming ‘You were born a man. You are a man’...

At that young age I knew that I was a girl... Little did I know that this beauty pageant would become my life... I joined a pageant and won 2nd runner up. It felt so good to be recognized as the person that you are. As a young transgender girl that I am. My first job was a transgender beauty model,” Rocero said.

Geena was born and raised in the Philippines. Every day, when she was walking home from school, men would drive past her and would describe her as a boy. They would often refer to her by the Ta-

alog word for the “F” word. After this, she realized people’s ignorance couldn’t be her reality.

In 2005, Rocero was a model in New York City, but she never disclosed that she was a transgender because during that time, transgender models weren’t accepted. She hid her true self, which caused her a lot of physical, mental, and emotional stress. After a decade, she realized that she needed to come out and free herself from the fake identity she had created.

“I knew I was transgender when I was 5 years old,” Rocero said. She decided to come out to the public on a TED talk video. The video went viral.

After the TED talk, Rocero was invited back to her homeland.

2 years ago, she went back to the Philippines and it was one of her proudest moments.

Discovered by fashion photographer in Manhattan (age 21)

Comes out as transgender during a TED Talk (2014)

Timeline of Rocero’s career:

Started participating in beauty pageants (age 15)

Immigrated to San Francisco, California (age 17)

GRC Crime Blotter 10/26 4 pm Holman Library

Saftey dispatch reported that a student was yelling and creating a possible risk. Student threw paper and started yelling racial slurs.

The student was asked to leave the campus but continued his violence toward the officer.

10/26 12:15 pm Parking Lot

Student entered the admin building and claimed he was the victim of a hit and run in parking lot P6.

10/26 8:35 pm West Campus

Student complained of severe back pain and wasn’t able to stand. Campus Safety and the fire department was called to check over the student.

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She was invited to speak in front of the House of Congress. When she was there, a security officer told her that she had to go to the men’s side. Although she was the guest of honor, she was still disrespected.

Transgender women of color make $10,000 dollars a year, and have a life expectancy of 30 years old.

Transgender women are made fun of in the national media. Bathroom policies are debated constantly, an argument that is triggering for many transgender people. These are just a handful of the ways trans people are oppressed.

Rocero recalls, “There was a very particular moment when I spoke in India. After my talk, a woman came up to me and asked me ‘what was the advantage of being transgender?’ I told her, ‘You know what, despite all of those pains and journey, not knowing who was going to love me or was the world going to love me...not knowing if I am ever going to be successful...Despite all of that, I think the advantage is I have compassion for the world.”

Rocero has gone on to work in digital media and has even starred in an episode of ‘I am Cait,’ Caitlynn Jenner’s reality show.

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Melanie Bell| Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Ohaka offers a diverse clothing line to student body By: Matt Caras Staff Writer As midterms come to an end, we are left dazed and confused, looking for something to bring us out from the midterm haze.

Charles Ohaka, a local fashion vendor, visited campus from the second through the fifth week of the fall quarter.

His merchandise ranges from jackets, sweaters, ponchos, Rasta hats, to many different types of jewelry. He sells a variety of clothing that is suited for both summer and winter weather.

Initially a chemical processor, Ohaka immigrated from Aba, a city in the southeastern region of Nigeria. He came to Seattle as a student when he was 18 years old. After earning his microbiology degree at the University of Washington, he worked for Boeing, handling dangerous chemicals and metals.

Now, as he inches closer to retirement, Ohaka continues to sell clothes. Ohaka has had a booth at Green River for 6 years with students and faculty that continually buy his merchandise.

While his experience here is

pleasant overall, he did not emerge unscathed. “When I had a booth inside the old cafeteria, an old lady stole one of my jackets but I didn’t say anything,” Ohaka recalled. “A couple weeks later I saw her with the jacket and I confronted her but I decided to let it go.”

Although Ohaka has already left for his next college visit (Pierce College), he hopes to come back to campus throughout the Green River school year. He plans to keep his stock fresh and updated by ordering new clothes through vendors who have business connections in India, Nigeria, and Peru.

In the summer, he sells dashikis.

They are unisex, embroidered shirts that are loose-fitting with vibrant and colorful tribal patterns. These shirts are not only comfortable, but they are also a cultural garment from West Africa and have three different formal versions that are typically worn during celebrations and weddings.

Ohaka also sells women’s clothing and clothing from African culture.

Fashion is one of Ohaka’s gifts and he enjoys spreading his love for it by providing a diverse selection.

“My sister-in-law introduced me

to the business of selling women’s fashion,” said Ohaka. “She sold woman’s jewelry, necklaces, and scarfs. I helped her with her business, assisting her in any way I could. Now, she does various events, seminars, and conventions.”

He now attends various street fairs and festivals in Washington.

Some of his favorite venues are the Winthrop and the Mount Baker Blues Festivals.

“One time at the Winthrop blues festival, a group of women tried some of my dresses after cooling off in the river, they were naked.”

Ohaka said. “At first, I was hesitant, but it grew on me. They said ‘I don’t mind if you look.’ It was a very 60’s mentality. Free spirited.”

Ohaka has many recurring customers as he visits these festivals.

Some of the venues he visits are more intimate, while others were largely populated and exclusive to the Washington area, like Bumbershoot and Hempfest.

Ohaka enjoys venturing out to the many colleges and festivals in this area and hopes to see some familiar Gator faces as he makes his rounds visiting us again through out the school year.

Matt Caras | The Current

Matt Caras | The Current

International Youth Foundation helps international students achieve goals By: Kirara Nagatsuka Staff Writer The International Youth Foundation (IYF) is a global foundation that travels all over the world to provide students with opportunities that they may not have otherwise. Members of the organization visit many different countries such as Mozambique, Tanzania, and Argentina.

In some instances, IYF members provide clothing, education retail training, and gamification so that these students can go on to lead successful lives.

However, a part of becoming successful is overcoming obstacles. In this instance, overcoming feelings

that may stand in the way of that.

The IYF attempted to reach the students attending Green River College by holding a series of mind lectures on campus. Mind lectures reach out to students and give them a chance to understand what they are feeling.

From Oct. 25 to Oct. 29, the IYF held a few mind lectures at the Rutkowski Learning Center.

Christy Vee, an international student from Vietnam, attended the lecture on Friday Oct. 28 said, “I want to know more about forgiveness, and if it is possible to do it (forgive) or not.”

Vee attended the lectures twice and was greatly influenced by them. She learned about these

lectures when the IYF set up an information kiosk outside of the Mel Lindbloom Student Union.

This way of advertising interested many students and convinced them to attend.

During their advertising campaign outside of the student union building, they got around 400 sign ups. People were interested in the organization, and wanted to get involved.

At the mind lectures, Nathan Kim, a guest speaker, spoke of his experience as a child and described his childhood in Korea.

Since the IYF is an international foundation, Sooah Park, a translator that is a member of the IYF attended. Kim spoke in Korean, and Park translated, but nothing was

lost. Kim’s strong way of speaking moved the audience members.

“We want to reach out to the students who are going through pain and make them have strong heart,” Park said, after the lecture.

IYF is trying to establish a club in the college so that all voices can be heard. They already have clubs at different universities, including the University of Washington.

The club would continue their series of mind lectures to reach out to students that are having trouble understanding what they are feeling and would help them overcome anything troublesome. They would like to introduce volunteers around campus, as well as offer lessons in Korean for those interested.

The lecture started with a cheerful dance number performed by IYF volunteer students. The dance left audience members in a good mood and waiting for more.

On the last day of the mind lecture series, about 50 people were in attendance. Over the course of four days, around 200 people attended the lectures.

Many students were from University of Washington, and some were from this college. “We want to change students,” said Park.

After each lecture, the International Youth Foundation provided treats, which made the people prompted students to gather and talk about their thoughts on the lecture and how it helped them.

Melanie Bell| Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

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The top social media and music apps among GRC students By: Colton Popp Guest Writer

Aart Boer | The Current

There is about two million apps among the app stores of different smartphone companies. The choice is not an easy one to make, like choosing an outfit for a cold autumn day. The dilemma for ten Green River students: choosing their favorite apps of the two million available in both Apple and Google’s app stores.

Whichever smartphone these students had, whether it was the newest version or an older version of Samsung’s Galaxy S or Apple’s iPhone, there were some pretty clear winners for their favorite apps.

The top five apps among these students, as they gathered in the courtyard with a group of their friends or by themselves, were mostly social media apps mixed in with video/picture sharing and music streaming apps, consisting of Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Spotify.

Of the ten students interviewed, eight of them said they used Instagram and Snapchat, seven chose Facebook, three chose YouTube and two chose Spotify.

Though five apps are listed, the fifth spot was tied with two students giving answers such as Twitter, I-Funny, Facebook Messenger and e-mail. Spotify places fifth on the list as the result of other students listing similar music sharing apps like Pandora, Shazam and Trending as their favorites.

Kenny Sheedy, 20, an engineering major, uses Snapchat. “It’s fascinating to know what people are up to in their daily lives,” Sheedy said.

It seems clear that most of these students enjoy their apps, as most of them were

using their phones during their break in the courtyard, whether they were having some alone time or with their friends.

The question that arises from these results is why did students choose to list these apps as their favorites? For some students, social media apps are a way for them to stay connected to people, such as friends or acquaintances.

Chris Salinas, 19, a computer science major at the college, uses Facebook most of the time because of the easy access it provides for him into his friends’ lives.

“I’m always logged in and all my friends use it,” says Salinas, of Kent.

As for other students, these apps are popular because of their accessibility. Everyone knows that all of these apps are available at the tap of a finger.

The average smartphone user has more than 20 apps on their device, per a study conducted by the Pew Research Center. Lilly Lewis, 19, a student at Green River, has 27 apps, and uses Trending, a music streaming app, the most.

“I like to listen to a lot of music, and it’s free,” says Lewis, of Auburn.

Whether you’re looking for something to pass the time in between classes, or looking for stress relief, apps can be the perfect escape. The best part is that many of them are free, which bodes well for students paying for tuition, and they can be accessed with a touch of an icon, all on a device that fits in your pocket.

Whichever app you like, be it Facebook, Snapchat or both, there are many to choose from that cater to your needs and satisfy your interests. All you’ll need is a smartphone and some time to kill.

International student and family in legal limbo amid election By: Cameron Braun Staff Writer Yadira Ventura, 19, is an undocumented Mexican American student, potentially one of many here at Green River pursuing her education and future alongside everyone else.

The issue of immigration in the United States seems to be one of the driving forces in this presidential election.

It becomes all too easy when listening and participating in these debates to forget that undocumented immigrants are human beings first and foremost. They aren’t all criminals or rapists. In fact, many of them like Ventura are seeking refuge from violence.

Ventura was 3 years old when she was brought to California by a friend of her mother, using the ID of the friend’s daughter. Ventura lived with her aunt for six months before her mother had was able to join her.

Ventura and her mother were the victims of a violently abusive father and husband, along with the rest of his family. He attempted to follow Ventura and her mother into

the United States, but was caught and deported. He still threatens the two of them to this day.

When Ventura was 10, she and her mother moved to Washington state, where she continued her ed-

“People shouldn’t be ashamed of who they are or where they come from, because on the inside we really are all the same…”

- Yadira Ventura

ucation through to her high school graduation, and then to Green River College.

During her time in elementary school, Ventura was often verbally abused by students because of her accent, skin tone, and Mexican heritage. Other students would often talk down on her as being “just another illegal Mexican.”

Aside from one incident in middle school, where a student heckled her in track for “running from the border patrol,” as she got older and moved into more diverse schools, she stopped being harassed in school as much.

Ventura sits in an interesting legal limbo that could change significantly following the results of this presidential election. She is currently being protected by her work permit.

Her work permit wasn’t easy to obtain, however. It required a lengthy, intensive application process after graduating from high school, and she had to get a lawyer and had to pay several hundred dollars in fees. Even then, a work permit is not the same as a work VISA, and is intended for individuals seeking citizenship.

Ventura has worked hard to get this far, and plans to continue working and hopefully transfer to the University of Idaho to study in law enforcement. She plans on one day working as a police profiler for the FBI, and double as a translator.

Along with her ambitious educational goals and career path, she eagerly awaits her the acceptance of her mother’s VISA, so that in three years, she can finally apply for full citizenship.

Ventura has spent most of her life in the United States, and aside from her documentation status, is an American.

She has grown up celebrating American holidays and following cultural norms that are both American and from her Mexican heritage. At the end of the day she proudly says, “I am an American citizen.”

Ventura said she thinks probably half of the Hispanic students at Green River may be in a position similar to hers, or at least know someone who is.

For the people in this nation, and for those at Green River in a similar situation as Ventura’s, she said, “People shouldn’t be ashamed of who they are or where they come from, because on the inside we really are all the same… be proud of your culture and who you are… and I am living proof that despite what some may argue, not every immigrant is a crimnal.”

The election could change the lives of countless immigrants and international students not only on campus but also throughout the world.

On the Green River campus there are 19,113 students in total, 2,291 international , and 1,720 hispanic students, though not all are in the same boat as Ventura, there are some among them.

“I am living proof

that despite what some may argue, not every immigrant is a crimnal.”

- Yadria Ventura

Student Demographics Total: 19,113 International: 2,291 Hispanic: 1,720

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M. Kienan Briscoe | A&E Editor a&e@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Milkshakes Bring All The Students To The Store Green River College Paper Tree Bookstore Sold its 10,000th Milkshake By: Mollie Clements Staff Writer

Upon the sale of the 10,000 milkshake, a lucky Green River College student was gifted by the bookstore with a hat, bag, sunglasses and a $25 gift card to the Paper Tree Bookstore.

In February, the bookstore decided to purchase a $13,000 milkshake machine. The manager, Gary Jones, stated that the F’reals have been a hit ever since. The milkshakes are very inexpensive for the students, costing only $3.49. In only nine months they have sold 10,000 milkshakes to GRC students, less than a year after the machine was purchased. In the first year of sales, Jones said that the bookstore has made $35,833 in total gross sales.

Since the bookstore had to move to the Student Union building, Jones explained that they wanted to have something different to grab student’s attention and decided that a milkshake machine would do the trick.

Upon buying this machine, the bookstore was not aware of how this machine would pop off with the students. Within the first shipment, milkshakes were completely sold out in only a couple days. It wasn’t until the bookstore had to emergency order milkshakes to restock that they realized they needed more freezers to keep enough in stock to meet demand.

The first freezer they bought wasn’t enough to keep supplying the customers. The bookstore ended up buying two freezers to stockpile milkshakes in order to keep from running out of shakes. The most cases of shakes they had to buy was 77 cases in a week, with 12 shakes in a case.

They currently have 11 flavors in stock. Out of this variety of flavors, the most popular are cookies & cream, chocolate and mint chocolate chip. They have sold 2,320 of cookies & cream, 1,144 of the chocolate and 1,130 of mint chocolate chip. Jones has stated that the chocolate flavor has been replaced by chocolate malt flavor which, he believes, should also be popular.

Amethyst McKnight, age 18, a GRC student, has had around seven of these delicious milkshakes so far. She tried cookies & cream while in the store with me. McKnight stated, “I’m going to get this from now on.” As she waited in line, she eagerly said, “I always want to buy two because one just isn’t enough!”

Jones stated that the most sales

made were in the months February, March and April, where 45-50 milkshakes were bought in a day.

Although he doesn’t understand why the milkshakes are this huge of a success, he continues to tell other colleges that the machine has

brought a huge amount of revenue to the bookstore. University of Oregon’s bookstore, Clark College in Spokane and Alvin Community College in Texas have also decided to purchase a F’real machine. Jones has reached across the states with

his milkshake success story.

Brennen Moe, a 19 year old GRC college student tried a chocolate flavor milkshake from the machine for the first time. Moe stated, “It’s pretty good,” as he continued to sip his shake. After finishing the shake,

he gave the critique that the flavor was surprisingly good considering it was not freshly made. In addition, he shared that he personally felt the price of the shake was exceptionally cheap for the quality of the shake.

“Built to Last” Album Review By: Riley Agnew Editor-in-Chief

The swedish heavy metal band Hammerfall released their new album “Built to Last” Nov 4.

The release marks the thirteenth studio album produced by the band in their 19 years of making music. Hammerfall took a journey back to their roots, linking the sounds of “Built to Last” with other iconic releases of theirs like “Glory to the Brave” and “Legacy of Kings”.

The album features fantasy based lyrics, heavy guitar riffs, and pounding drums.

The album brings a fresh anthem to add to the long list of powerful songs produced by the band with the release of “Hammer High”, a teaser song and pre-order bonus. “Hammer High” opens with an aggressive drum solo and soaring chorus that begs the listener to sing along.

The title song, “Built to Last”, is a fantastic culmination of the musical talents present in the band and their years of working together. It’s a song to draw in new fans and to make old fans nostalgic of old albums.

Overall, the album shows that Hammerfall are still producing stellar music, but whether or not another album will be released is something to wait and see.

a&e Doctor Strange Is A Mind-Bending Experience M. Kienan Briscoe | A&E Editor a&e@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

By: M. Kienan Briscoe A&E Editor

Doctor Strange, Marvel Studio’s fourteenth Cinematic Universe film, based on the superhero of the same name, opened November 4, bringing in over $300 million in the box office.

Despite its success, Green River students may still be wondering if the film is worth the time and money and the answer is undeniably: yes.

The film follows surgeon Stephan Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) who, after a car accident, is left with damaged hands and no job or direction.

Desperate for rejuvenation, he pursues a more spiritual path at a Nepali monastery, learning that the universe is much stranger than he ever thought.

Marvel Studios needs little more

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than deploying familiar characters and stamping their logo on a project in order to sell movie tickets.

However, after 14 films in, they still manage to create quality, original, and engrossing reimaginings of old comic book heroes.

Yes, there is still a formulaic outline to the film’s overall narrative that we see in many Hollywood-style movies. However, Doctor Strange does not attempt to brush this tradition under the rug, instead, it flaunts it like a dancer submitting to music. And in a way, this unabashed confidence somehow allows you to forget you’ve seen it all before.

But apart from the structure of the narrative, the film is jam-packed with witty humor, outstanding visuals, and even philosophic precepts that make you want to meditate more and realign your chakras.

The director Scott Derickson’s controversial decision to cast Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One, who in the comic is an elderly Tibetan man, and his derivative nods at Christopher Nolan’s Inception are well justified. For one, Derrickson believed casting a Tibetan would infringe on Chinese ticket sales, a large market. As Nolan credited the

original Doctor Strange comics as an influence to his film Inception, it was completely understandable Derrickson would return the credit in his cinematography.

Doctor Strange is an instant hit, with both comic book readers and newcomers alike, tending to a wide variety of movie-goers and leaving an experience that is enjoyable

for a diverse audience. Apart from maybe stylistic and content disfavors, the film is still worth seeing it on the big screen, equipped with 3Dglasses and a large popcorn.

Image courtesy of Marvel Studios

The Espial Journal: Years of Student Creativity A Collection of Student Art Since The 1960’s Gets New Additions Each year students are inspired by different things depending on what’s going on around them at the time and these thoughts Few students on campus know and feelings are turned into the about the Espial Literary and compilation of work that becomes Art Journal. The journal is made the journal. by the students, for the students Every Spring Quarter, the and holds memories of them in students are tasked with finding its pages. a quote that they agree on to The Espial Literary and Art Jourbecome the theme of that year’s nal is a journal that has existed at journal.

This quote stated at the Green River Community College beginning of the journal helps since the 1960’s. During those decide what kind of art and times, it was almost exclusively a literature will be presented in the literary journal. book as well In 2002, it was as what the reborn as our cur“Seeing the look on student’s overall design rent Espial journal. faces when they see and feel the will be.

Espial means to take The jourprinted Espial journal...is the notice of something, nal is split or discover it. This best part about teaching this between idea is captured combined course” - Trysteen Tran two courses in the journal as a on campus. medium through The English 239, and the Art 150 which students can discover what classes. inspires them and realize their The English 239 class is primarily opportunities. Espial may have responsible for the editing done not always been the name of the in the journal as well as supplying journal, but it has always been most of the literary aspects. student driven.

Gilmartin is the English 239 The purpose of the Espial Literinstructor, but she calls herself ary and Art Journal is to archive more of an advisor. Gilmartin says student creativity, according to students have complete control Espial instructor Sarah Dillon of what goes in the journal. She Gilmartin. “The journal docuand her coworker, Trysteen Tran, ments our history in a different only teach them the fundamentals way by showing the emotional before handing over the reins. work of students at the college,” Tran is the instructor of the Art said Gilmartin.

By: Deadra Johnson Staff Writer

150 class which handles the visual aspects of the journal such as the cover and provides art. They teach in the same classroom. According to Tran, they had almost 30 students combined last year with 13 of them being English students.

The class begins with team-building exercises. “This is done through the students getting together and making lists of aspects they liked and disliked from prior journals to use as a resource,” said Gilmartin.

The instructors only help the students organize their ideas before they go through numerous votes to decide what ends up in the journal.

The classes only have Spring Quarter to complete everything, so sticking to their deadlines is critical. The courses take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. during Spring quarter.

Both instructors are dedicated to helping students realize their creative abilities. “I’m interested in inspiring students to make amazing things. I’m driven by how I’m able to create opportunities for them that change the world,” Gilmartin said.

Tran says that she views creating the journal as a way for students to leave their mark on GRC while sustaining the journal’s legacy. The 2017 issue will mark her third year

working as the Espial instructor.

“Seeing the look on student’s faces when they see and feel the printed Espial journal for the first time is the best part about teaching this combined course”, Tran stated.

However, what goes in the journal isn’t just up to the students in the class. Any student, alumni, or faculty member can submit articles for consideration. You don’t have to be in the class to participate and you don’t have to be a current student either. The deadline for consideration is March 17, 2017.

The Espial Literary and Arts Journal is a documentation of GRC’s creative history as a campus. With students coming and going every year it’s in a constant state of variety. But GRC’s journal doesn’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon.

To everyone on campus, Tran says, “The Espial course is like none other! It operates like a fun, interactive, all-hands-on-deck project that develops real-world skill sets, and it is completely run by students.”

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S U D O K U

Kartik Sarda | Web Editor web@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

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Last week’s games answers:

4

Generated Riddles: by http://www.opensky.ca/sudoku on Wed Nov 9 01:46:38 2016 GMT. Enjoy!

1. Mailbox 2. A grandfather, his son, and his grandson go fishing.

3. Skull 4. Charcoal 5. Keyhole

Scarmble:

spooky pumpkin treat ghost candy vampire skeleton ghoul creepy costume haunt scarecrow hayride blood goblin mummy scary scream

7

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2

Raghav Mandhana | Opinion Editor opinion@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

opinion

thecurrent

9

2016-2017

An International Perspective On US Politics

Editorial

This week marks the end of all the craziness, the point in which all of the absurdity, chaos, interminable stress and anxiety come to an end.

We’re talking, of course, of the presidential election. At the time this piece is published, the new president of the United States will have been elected, and whoever that ends up being, it is inarguable that the election season of 2016 has been the craziest.

Yet among attempting to defend two of the most unpopular candidates in U.S. history, in a college as diverse as Green River, we’re left wondering how exactly this circus has appeared from an outsider looking in.

Green River College consists of almost 2,000 international students who are not U.S. citizens and not registered voters. As a voter it is easy to get wrapped up in the propaganda of each of the candidates’ newest scandal, it is provocative to engage in arguments and debates on social media over how one candidate is truly the lesser of the two evils. It is stimulating to debate with your

parents over how you are voting for the other person. But really, of what interest is it to international students here in the college? How do the outcomes of this year’s election impact their lives? How will the elected candidate affect the foreign policies of their home country, if at all in any way?

JiYoung Hwang, an international student from South Korea, mentioned her family has made a sport of following the race, watching the debates, etc. because depending on who is elected in office determines a foreign policy that directly affects her and her family’s country.

“Koreans are interested in the benefit we will get such as both candidates’ policy for North Korea and China” Hwang said. “If American military keeps staying in Korea, Korea gets [a] better reputation for stock, investment and trading from other countries.” However important, it seems both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, respectively, are just as unpopular among international students as U.S. citizens.

“It is a losing game whichever

candidate wins,” Hwang continued.

“Unless Mickey Mouse wins.”

Yet while Korea may be directly affected by the decision of our country’s election, in a country such as India, which is a strong U.S. ally, that may not exactly be the case.

“I don’t think the election will affect the relations with India,” Kartik Sarda, an international student and web editor, said.

“I think they are both intelligent enough to know they need India for manufacturing. Plus a lot of major U.S. based multinational companies need Indian employees. I don’t think the results make much of a difference to Indians. It’s in the hands of congress rather than crazy individuals.”

“You guys are crazy!” Mariya Mubeen, another Indian international student said, referring to how worked up our nation has gotten.

Regardless who has taken office by deadline, and despite of what that means to our country, at least the election was as entertaining as the characters running.

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Mariya Mubeen Managing Editor Photographer Kartik Sarda Web Editor Ads Manager Melanie Bell Campus Editor

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Raghav Mandhana Opinion Editor

Aiman Ahmad Sports Editor

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Editorials reflect the opinions of the entire editing staff of the Current.

The Dimmer of Two Burning Dumpsters

hand, after ignoring a couple of investigations involving her e-mail scandal, can be considIt’s down to the wire – Don- ered more qualified than Trump ald Trump and former Secre- for president. Clinton served as senator for two terms and also tary of State Hillary Clinton are finally in their last days of as the secretary of state under President Barack Obama for competing for the presidenone term. tial position.

Trump, while he may have a This election has been the few things to offer to the counnastiest that this country has ever seen, with both candidates try, does not have the temperfocusing on condemning one an- ament or the correct attitude other rather than on issues that that a president needs to have.

During the entirety of the are important.

No matter who is elected, the campaign season, he has shown impatience, belittlement, abraUnited States is in for a rough siveness, and altogether inapfour years, but the electorate needs to choose the lesser of two propriate behavior.

One of the most notable evils. While Donald Trump may call himself a great businessman, differences is regarding the his policies only seem to benefit immigration crisis not only concerning Syrian immigrants him and his kind. Even though but surrounding countries like people subordinate to him will Mexico. Trump is notoriously receive some benefit, nothing known for his plan to build a remarkable is expected. wall at the border and make Hillary Clinton, on the other By: Melanie Bell Campus Editor

Editorial Policy

The Current is a public forum for student expression. Student editors make all content decisions without censorship or advanced approval. The opinions of these stories are those of the writers and the writers alone. If you have an opposing viewpiont feel free to write The Current a Letter to the Editor.

Mexico pay for it. Trump’s goal is to send millions back to Mexico and deny entry to the refugees coming in from Syria, calling them a Trojan horse.

His only explanation for this being “extreme vetting” left Americans clueless.

Clinton, however, has made a firm stance on helping immigrants in need but helping America at the same time. She does not want to deport those that have made a life here but instead wants to deport violent criminals and illegal residents, while mending the path to citizenship for non-US citizens.

One of Trump’s most unsavory qualities is his repetitive abusive behavior towards women. In early October, a video surfaced with Trump and access Hollywood host Billy Bush speaking lewdly of women. After this video came out, Trump gave an apology claiming that,

Theft Policy

that video did not fairly represent who he was and labeled it as “locker room talk.” However, there have been several other instances with Trump saying similar things about women in his life or work.

In an effort to defend himself, Trump said, “No one has more respect for women as I do,” in the second presidential debate.

This statement brought fourth laughter by the audience.

Trump’s economic policies, when analyzed by multiple political sources and newspapers were said to be able to set us back if there wasn’t extreme growth, while Clinton’s would generate wealth for the lower and middle classes.

Clearly, Clinton is the superior candidate. She may be far from perfect, but she definitely is the lesser of two evils and is the best choice to lead us into the future.

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10

2016-2017

opinion

thecurrent

Raghav Mandhana | Opinion Editor opinion@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

The Struggles of International Students at GRC By: Kartik Sarda Web Editor Every year, fall quarter brings with it the highest number of new students at Green River College. International students form a major part of it, providing the diversity that our college is known for. However, are they satisfied with their experience so far?

International Programs at GRC make sure that their international students have all the help they need to survive college. Even after their best efforts, there are a few things which trouble the new students.

Money is always an important factor in college education. In the United States, the average cost of tuition is around $30,000 per year, which is very high compared to other countries. On top of it, most of the grants, scholarships and financial aid programs are available only to domestic students. Although GRC has a comparatively lower tuition costs, living in Washington State is very expensive if you do not have a job.

“I’m little bit unhappy because it’s so costly here,” said Mesan Dows,

an international student from Saudi Arabia who joined GRC in Summer 2016. From basic needs like groceries to recreational and educational needs like books and electronics, daily necessities are very expensive for international students.

Another very important problem that they face is the language barrier. Most international students come to the U.S. for the first time with little or no background in English. Starting with low-level English classes sets them really back in their courses as Engl&101 is a prerequisite for many other subjects offered at GRC. Lacking good speaking skills makes it tough for new students to engage in conversations and become a part of the college community.

“Learning a different language is propbably the biggest problem for me,” Dows admitted.

When asked about the biggest problem he faces as an international student, Jonathan Santoso replied, “Food and transportation for sure! I was so used to having my grandma cook my meal. Now, I need to cook for myself! … Back in my home country, my family have cars that will help me to go from

one place to other place. However, in the US, I heavily rely on public transport like bus or I walk… walking to school while it is cold and pouring is not a good experience.”

Santoso is not the only one suffering due to limited transportation choices. Many international students do not have cars, so they tend to live near college or in CCA, which is very expensive. They also have to understand the bus routes and system. In most Asian countries, stores are not as far as they are in the U.S., making it inconvenient for students.

One issue, which fortunately is not a problem at GRC, is discrimination against international students, especially Asians. Racism is a big problem all over the United States which hurts international students deeply. However, GRC’s strict policies have made sure that their students remain protected from any provocative remarks about race, religion or gender.

“I think we [are] treated equally because GRC environment is so good,” said Dows.

“I feel that domestic and international students are always treated equally,” said Santoso about the

issue. “I personally like the environment at GRC immensely. The staff is nice, the faculty is kind, and the tutoring resources (like the Writing center and the Tutoring center) are helpful! I feel that the environment at GRC really supports students to excel in their education.”

There are other less significant problems, such as complex documentations and paperwork, privileges to domestic students in certain scholarships and admissions, adjustment to the new curriculum, weather and climate changes, homesickness, emotional support, etc. However, these problems are sometimes considered as part of the international experience.

So overall, is it worth studying in the U.S. rather than in their home country? Most of the times, it depends on the individual as there are too many variables to count for a general population. All we can do is point out the pros and cons and let the students decide for themselves about which side weighs more. Of course, it is not going to be as easy as staying in their home countries, but the new experience itself provides a very good learning curve for the students.

Aiman Ahmad | Sports Editor sports@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

sports

thecurrent

11 2016-2017

Photos by Annie Chan | The Current

A Comeback After Five Years By: Annie Chan Staff Writer

The women’s soccer team clinched their playoff spot for the 2016 season after winning 2-1 against Tacoma.

With the current record of 8-4-1, the Gators settled into third seed, trailing behind the Highline Thunderbirds and the Tacoma Titans.

The match against Tacoma was crucial. After losing 0-2 to Tacoma earlier in the season, the Gators persevered to win, making a comeback. The win was more than just a comeback, as it secured them a spot in the playoffs.

“It is the first time we made it in five years,” Grayce Kovarik, sophomore forward said.

“We beat the team that knocked us out of the playoffs last year so it was really cool.”

After scoring three goals against the Grays Harbor Chokers in late October, Kovarik broke the school record with 15 goals re-

corded for this season. The old record was 14 goals made in 1998.

Athletic director, Bob Kickner was not hesitant to comment on Kovarik’s accomplishment. “(Grayce) is outstanding and super hard-working,” Kickner said. “She has a knack for getting the ball to her feet at the right time.”

After 25 years of coaching, Coach Stu Snow believes that the work ethic was what really stood out for this particular season.

“Our training tees have the team motto for this year which is ‘one goal’,” Snow said. “That one goal means everything to us. It is not just a goal, but it is a personal goal and a team goal. It is an attitude. We concentrate on that one goal and this group’s first goal was to secure a place in the playoffs. That is what they have worked for this entire season.”

Teamwork really set the tone for the players this year as their “one goal”

continued to direct them. team to face the North The Gators were locked Idaho Cardinals. in one game at a time “It is a completely new throughout the season. experience for most of “Teamwork is a lot better these girls,” said Snow. this year,” Kovarik said.

“They’ve never gone to “As sophomores, we really the playoffs, so they don’t want it because it is our know what they are getlast year playing and the ting into,” said Snow. “It is freshmen also really want a tournament and everyit for us.” thing that we have done is The last time Green River now wiped out. You start made it to playoffs was in out fresh and reestablish 2011 when they finished in new goals.” second north* in the quarThe NWAC playoff game terfinals. With a steady versus #2 seed North record this season, the Idaho from the East was Gators faced an accomlocated in Couer d’Alene, plishing new experience Idaho on November 2. heading into the playoffs.

Given that North Idaho’s “It doesn’t happen often,” record was 10-1-3, the GaKickner said. tors, being “This team the unfa“It is a big sense was very vored ones, of accomplishment. consistent had to travel They have achieved and they as #3 seed. something very few earned it.”

With three team have achieved” saves by RaThe last - Bob Kickner time Coach chel Fieser, Snow faced team captain a playoff game was also in and senior goalkeeper, 2011. This was his second and the perseverance of time taking his Gator team the team as a whole, the to the playoffs and he was Gators unfortunately still ready to take a whole new fell short.

Four of the Gators’ attempted goals were saved

by North Idaho’s Tiegan Horton. The first half was scoreless but the Gators ended up allowing three goals by the Cardinals in the second half, resulting in a 0-3 loss, an end to their playoff run.

Despite the loss, the Gators have accomplished their “one goal” and have also reached many accomplishments in the season.

“It is a big sense of accomplishment,” Kickner said. “They have achieved something very few teams have achieved.”

Players on the team described the team atmosphere as a good place to have been in. They felt that each one of them worked hard but also knew how to have fun.

Coach Snow pushed them hard because he really wanted to make that “one goal” happen for them.

sports Woman’s Basketball Hoping to Rid the Drought 12

thecurrent

Aiman Ahmad | Sports Editor sports@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

2016-2017

By: Matt Caras Staff Writer

Practicing since Oct. 10, the Gator’s women’s basketball team awaits the pre-season hoping to rid the 13-year drought of missing the post-season.

Bob Kickner did not hesitate to comment on the team’s fluidity thus far.

“Our practices have been highly spirited, very competitive and drama-free”, Kickner said, “If that continues, we should be a fun team to watch this year, ridding the 13 year playoff drought,” Kickner added.

Having the largest roster, most athletically built and uniquely talented group of athletes creates excitement for the Green River Athletics Department.

The team consisting of 15 members, has three returning sophomores; Alexis (Lexi) Gleason, Shalie Dahl and Lynsee Ferretto.

Gleason, the team lead-

er, played basketball for 13 years and thanks to the help of one of her best friends, she continued the sport which soon became her passion.

“We have a lot of fun together, we capitalize on our strengths and we fix our weaknesses”, Gleason said. “We’ll try our hardest to get rid of the connotation that Green River is not competitive.”

Although Danequa Brown played shortly for the Green River Team, she was granted medical hardship, giving her another chance to re-play her freshmen season.

She averaged about 16 points a game, making her a strong asset to the team.

“I feel determined. It was a minor set back but I’m ready to perform, making a good comeback,” said Brown.

Moreover, the team has 12 ambitious freshmen, ready to play. Two noted newcomers are Arianna

styles. Yakima’s fast-paced and quick scoring offense differed from Columbia Bible’s half court zone defensive strategy.

“Very productive weekend was able to play against three different styles and show that we can be competitive playing fast or slow,” said Kickner.

Improving quickness and skills correlates with practice and having fun.

Therefore, basketball is a “Our practices have game to practice not only as a team but sometimes been highly spirited, by yourself or with a small very competitive and group of players. drama-free.”

During practice, drilling - Bob Kickner fundamentals, focusing on plays, and scrimmaging against one another Last Saturday, Green River hosted a series of five are primarily focused.

Like any sports, awaregames lasting 20 minutes ness takes time. Therelong. Green River played fore, knowing where your three of the five games.

The three other competing teammates are to execute the play is key in strengthcolleges were Big Bend College (Oregon), Yakima ening the team’s coordinaCollege, and Columbia Bi- tion. In other words, team ble College (Canada). Each chemistry and strategy are team had different playing both important whether to Dougall, shooting guard from Alaska, and Peyton Dungan, the tallest player in the NWAC league.

Jeff Jackson, 12th season basketball announcer, commented on the team.

“I think the team looked good. We have a strong defense and offense. Also, we have the tallest player in the league, Peyton Dungan,” he said.

score the basket or retrieving rebounds.

Veronica Scherbina, freshman player said, “5-5 scrimmage, he’ll call plays for us to do such as ‘cash, motion play where the post moves block to block, able to retrieve rebound shooting ball into basket.”

Madeline Lanway, freshman player said, “Conditioning and shooting drills at my house helps get me into game shape.

When I go to the RAC, I’ll do line drills. Sprints help with transition plays and getting across the court quicker.”

As we got ready for our first pre-season games at Green River, we anticipate playing against Whatcom on Nov. 19 and Edmonds on Nov. 22 followed by the Thanksgiving Tournament in Oregon on Nov. 25 and the Everett Tournament on Dec. 9.

Photos by Joshua Tan | The Current

Gator Volleyball Went Against The Chokers

The Chokers, the volleyball team from Grays Harbor College triumph against our Gator’s volleyball team with a final score of 75 - 41.