.org
the
ranger Serving San Antonio College since 1926
An independent forum of free voices
Volume 89 Issue 4 • Oct. 6, 2014
210-486-1773 • Single copies free
@therangerSAC
/readtheranger
/therangervideo
Chancellor blames Texas Legislature for degree change Only new students will receive generic diplomas. By Bleah B. Patterson
bpatterson13@student.alamo.edu
Strutting auditions
Pre-med biology sophomore Maryssa Ramon walks the runway at model auditions Wednesday in the Fiesta Room of Loftin. More than 15 students showed up for open auditions to participate
According to the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, during the 83rd legislative session in 2013, House Bill 489 guaranteed the right to be accompanied by a trained service animal in all public places. The person may also take a service animal on public transportation without paying a second fare. If a person’s disability is not visible, an authority figure can only ask if the animal is required because the person has a disability and what task or work the animal is trained to perform. Delia De Luna, student success senior generalist, who works in disABILITY support services at this campus, said according to Alamo Colleges policy, students may, but are not required to, show documentation to the college. De Luna said, “We prefer and strongly suggest the individual come through our
Students, faculty and administrators are trying to understand the move to generic degrees as the situation evolves, and it is the Texas Legislature that is to blame, Chancellor Bruce Leslie said. To resolve districtwide confusion, students enrolled at any of the Alamo Colleges before this semester will not be affected by the degree change and their concentrations will be printed onto their diplomas, Leslie said Tuesday. Students who choose to graduate using the degree plan with the catalog year they started will have their concentrations on their diplomas and transcripts, he said. Students If we take anything who began fall from our offices 2014, or begin and make it any semester public before after, will not we’ve finished the have a concenprocess, some tration specipeople assume it’s fied on their finalized, but often diploma unless it’s far from it. further changes Bruce Leslie are made. “We’re tryChancellor ing to figure out how to make this work, too,” Leslie said. “It’s constantly changing, and we’re working with the statewide system the best we can.” In April the president and vice chancellor’s committee, PVC, chose to remove concentrations, or major specifications, from Associate of Arts and Associate of Science diplomas after a recommendation by the accrediting agency liaisons here and at Northeast Lakeview, St. Philip’s and Northwest Vista colleges. Northeast Lakeview is in the process of accreditation. The other three Alamo Colleges are approaching reaffirmation. Jo-Carol Fabianke, vice chancellor of academic success, sent an email Sept. 19 to employees districtwide with an update about the degree change. “Students that enrolled prior to the fall 2014 term may choose whether or not to seek the A.A. or A.S. under a previous catalog with a field of study on the transcript,” Fabianke wrote. It was the word “transcript” and the omission of the word “diploma” in the email that led to President Mike Flores of Palo Alto College and Dr. Robert Vela, president of this college to contradict each other in interviews. Leslie said confusion happens when faculty and students do not understand the evolution of a process evolving from the conception of an idea to the final product. “If we take anything from our offices and make it public before we’ve finished the process, some people assume it’s finalized, but often it’s far from it,” Leslie said. In response to discussions among college accreditation liaisons, college Presidents and vice chancellors, Leslie sent a letter seeking clarification last week to a representative at the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. He said he does not expect to hear back from the agency until next week because a lot of the administrators are in a conference. He said everyone has put more emphasis on what will be written “on a piece of paper,” instead
See SERVICE, Page 9
See LEGISLATURE, Page 9
as models, designers, hair stylists and makeup artists in a Nov. 19 fashion show. After auditions, practice will be once a week until the show. The event was sponsored by student life. Ayesa Hinojosa
Service dog helps PTSD, anxiety While not required, a student can register with disABILITY support services. By Nathalie Mora
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
English freshman Lacey Haugse’s dog Chance is more than just a pet. Chance helps Haugse deal with the anxiety and depression of post-traumatic stress disorder. Chance knows deep pressure therapy, which is similar to a hug. When Haugse is having an anxiety attack, Chance hops on her lap and adds pressure on her chest. “He helps me with mobility, helps me up stairs and helps me up when I’m on the floor,” Haugse said. Extreme bullying in high school triggered English freshman Lacey Haugse enjoys the day the beginnings of PTSD. with her service dog, Chance, Thursday west of “One time, a girl spilled milk on my Moody. Chance, a Labrador retriever mix, can head, then ‘Got Milk?’ was part of my name.” sense when Lacey’s heart rate increases and ease Haugse said. her anxiety. Milena Arias Her psychiatrist recommended she get a service dog. can help soothe a person’s anxiety. “I’ve had this feeling like something He said when there are triggers present wasn’t complete,” Haugse said. “I had been for her anxiety or panic attacks, the dog will looking for other ways sense it and try to comfort to cope with my anxiety, the individual. He is just there depression and PTSD.” Brandenburg said overand that’s what I She said she noticed coming PTSD is hard and like, the constant an immediate change in having a service dog does reminder of ‘it’s her anxiety levels after not guarantee the patient OK; it’s going to be adopting Chance and will overcome it, but having training with him. one certainly helps. OK.’ “I had a sense of Haugse and Chance are Lacey Haugse belonging,” Haugse said. living proof. English freshman “He is just there and “If my heart rate goes that’s what I like, the conabove 110, he starts lookstant reminder of ‘it’s OK; it’s going to be OK,” ing at me and I will know that my heart rate she said. has to go down,” Haugse said. Counselor James Brandenburg said ani“Even just being around him makes me mals are very calming and a dog’s presence feel so much better,” Haugse stressed.
’’
Service animal etiquette English freshman Lacey Haugse stressed the importance of service dog etiquette and respect for the dog’s job. “There’s a certain etiquette that you have to maintain. You don’t look at the dog, you don’t speak to the dog and, especially, you don’t pet the dog.” Most service dogs will have, even though not required, a vest “working dog, do not pet” or simply “service dog.” Haugse said it does not bother her, but it makes her uncomfortable to be stopped every five minutes. That alone could trigger an anxiety attack. “He has a job to do and his job is to focus on me and my well being,” Haugse said.
’’
SAConnected
2 • Oct. 6, 2014
www.theranger.org/calendar
Adopt-a-tree
Alexis Martinez adopts an Arizona Cypress tree from San Antonio Forest Partnership Sept. 28 at Síclovía. Síclovía is a semiannual city initiative that closed Broadway, Alamo and Nolan streets to vehicular traffic and promoted healthy living, physical activity and environmental knowledge. R.T. Gonzalez
GED Above: Stephanie Reyes, 26, organizes her binder as Crystal Moreno, 25, gets help with geometry from Zita Solis, SAC/SAISD transitional instructor, Sept. 15 in the empowerment center. The GED to college transition program combines the GED with college prep courses. The program is also a finalist for THECB Star award. Neven Jones
Tryouts Left: Biology sophomore Rey Esquivel puts up a contested layup past kinesiology sophomore Cody Hastings in a scrimmage during basketball tryouts Thursday in Gym 2 of Candler. The Rangers women’s first basketball games will be at 6 p.m. followed by the men’s first basketball game at 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in Gym 1 of Candler. E. David Guel
Good eats
Joseph Ramirez, business administration sophomore, carries boxes of yogurt donated by the Food Bank Wednesday at the food pantry in Lot 1. The food pantry helped more than 142 clients on their last visit Sept. 3. They will return to campus Oct. 30. Ayesa Hinojosa
TODAY TUES WED THUR SAC Transfer: Texas A&M University-San Antonio 9 a.m.-noon on first floor of Chance. Continues through Friday. Call 210-486-0342.
SAC Transfer: Our Lady of the Lake University 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on first floor of Chance. Call 210-4860342.
NLC Event: Oktoberfest “Vender” Day 10 a.m-2 p.m. with live German accordion music and vendor booths in mall of student commons welcome center. Call 210-486-5404.
Event: Pumpkin Patch 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal School, 1416 Texas 1604 Loop. Open Tuesday-Sunday and continues through Oct. 31. For weekend times, call 210-441-9980.
SAC Event: Catholic Student Association club membership drive 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in mall. Continues through Tuesday. Call 210-7363752. PAC Event: Entrepreneur Leadership Series: “How to Run a Business” with Joseph Palumbo noon-1 p.m. in Room 143 of Ozuna. RSVP by 9 a.m. Call 210-4863131. SAC Meeting: Student Government noon in craft room of Loftin. Email kelliot3@student. alamo.edu. See story online.
SAC Lecture: Hot potato Tuesday “Homelessness Around The World” by The Rev. Lorenza Smith 12:15 p.m. at United Methodist Campus Ministry, 102 Belknap. Call 210-733-1441. SAC Event: San Antonio chapter of Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education “Legacy of Leadership” reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Room 120 of visual arts. http:// www.alamo.edu/sac/ HHM14/. NLC Film: “The Loving Story” documentary with discussion to follow 6-9 p.m. in performing arts center. Email tmendoza17@ alamo.edu.
SAC Transfer: Texas State University 9:3011:30 a.m. on first floor of Chance. Call 210-486-0342. SAC Event: “Latinos in Architecture” presentations 10:50 a.m.12:05 p.m. in Room 218 of nursing complex SAC Lecture: Flavia Viana of Southwest Research Institute 1:302:45 p.m. in Room 204 of Chance. Visit http:// www.alamo.edu/sac/ HHM14/.
Alex
and
ra N
elip a SAC Contest: Halloween pumpkin decorating contest 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in craft room of Loftin. Winner announced at costume contest Oct. 30. Call 210-486-0126.
SAC Event: Free HIV testing 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 150 of Loftin. Call 210-486-0158. SPC Event: Sixth annual Best Tasting Salsa Contest 11 a.m.1 p.m. in Heritage Room of campus center. Call 210-486-2318.
SAC Event: Inspirational professor award dedication ceremony by Phi Theta Kappa 9:30 a.m. in faculty lounge. Email klorine2@alamo. edu or call 210-2689522. SAC Event: Meet the Majors 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-4860340. SAC Event: Mass and meal 12:15 p.m. at Catholic Student Center, 312 W. Courtland. Call 210-736-3752. SAC Event: Dodge ball tournament 3 p.m. in Gym1 of Candler. Email jgillen24@student.alamo. edu. SAC Play: “Bach at Leipzig” directed by Ronnie Watson and sponsored by the fine arts department 7:30 p.m. in theater of McCreless. Continues 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10-11 and 16-18; 2:30 p.m. Oct. 12 and 19. Admission $5 with Alamo Colleges ID; $8 senior citizens, military and other colleges; $10 general admission. Call 210-486-0255.
FRI
SAT MON UPCOMING
SAC Meeting: Onstage Drama Club 2 p.m. in theater of McCreless. Continues Fridays. Call 210-4860491.
SAC Event: Alamo Colleges Student Leadership Symposium 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in auditorium of McAllister. Call 210-486-0125.
PAC Event: Dodge ball tournament 3-5 p.m. at campus recreation center with signup by Oct. 9. Call 210486-3805.
SPC Conference: Women Breaking Through conference 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in Building 1 of Southwest Campus for young women Grades 8-12. Register online http://www. alamo.edu/spc/wbtc/. Call 210-486-7123.
Event: “Ransom Island” book launch 6-8 p.m. at The Twig Book Shop, 306 Pearl Pkwy. Call 210-826-6411. Film: “High Noon” sponsored by Travis Park Movies by Moonlight fall series presents “High Noon” 7 p.m. at Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. Cocktails, jazz and paint lessons. Visit www.slabcinema.com or call 210-207-3914. Concert: Colony House and Knox Hamilton with Hydra Melody 8 p.m. at Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 E. Grayson. Tickets $10 and up. Call 210-2232830.
SUN Event: GUSTO Challenge 5K/12K/13M 8-11:30 a.m. O.P. Schnabel Park Trails, 9606 Bandera, benefiting the San Antonio Food Bank. Registration fees vary. Register online at http://www. carrerathon.com/webpages.asp?wpid=16 or call 210-764-9900. Event: St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church annual festival 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church, 102 Lorenz. Food booths, silent auction and raffle. Call 210-824-1743.
Observance: Columbus Day. SAC Event: GED practice test 8 a.m. at empowerment center, 703 Howard St. Offered to the first 10 people to sign in. Continues Mondays. Call 210486-0455. PAC Event: Texas A&M University-San Antonio 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Room 101 of student center. Call 210-486-3131. SAC Event: Karaoke 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.
Oct. 14 SAC Event: Belly dancing lessons with Samantha Davis 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-4860125. Oct. 15 NLC Event: Career Fair 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in mall of student commons with résumé review and mock interviews 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 125 of student commons. Call 210-4865612. Oct. 17 SAC Film: “Guardians of the Galaxy” part of SACtacular 8-10 p.m. in mall. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome. Call 210-485-0126. Oct. 18
PAC Event: Opening ceremony to inaugural Native American/ Hispanic Heritage Month noon-1:30 p.m. in the courtyard. Call 210-486-3125.
Event: “Intimate Sessions IV” featuring Azul Barrientos and Mama Cuca Morales de Barrientos 8 p.m. at Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, 922 San Pedro. $5. Call 210228-0201.
SAC Meeting: Society of Women Engineers noon in the MESA Center Room 204 of Chance. Open to all Students. Continues Mondays. Call 210485-0085.
SAC Deadline: President’s holiday card design competition 4 p.m. in President’s Office, Room 323 of Fletcher. Entry forms available in Room 323 of Fletcher. Grand prize $500 scholarship. Call 210-486-0956.
Oct. 22
!
For coverage in SAConnected, call 210-486-1773 or e-mail sac-ranger@alamo.edu two weeks in advance.
News District officials gear up for EDUC 1300 discussion www.theranger.org/news
Oct. 6, 2014 • 3
Trustees charged Bruce Leslie with implementing EDUC 1300 into the core. By Bleah B. Patterson
bpatterson13@student.alamo.edu
EDUC 1300, a course based on “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey and FranklinCovey’s principle-centered leadership, is being considered once again for the core curriculum. Chancellor Bruce Leslie answered questions about the district’s plans to implement the course during a Sept. 17 Faculty Senate meeting. At the beginning of this semester, the district’s board of trustees included trying to implement the course into Leslie’s charge, an outline of goals and expectations to the chancellor from the trustees. Specifically, he was charged with continuing to “reduce or eliminate programs (and) courses no longer necessary or effective. To explore the integration of the course EDUC 1300 into the core programming.” In the spring, district officials made the decision to add EDUC 1300 to the core curriculum in place of a humanities requirement. In
the process, they bypassed district-designated policies for curriculum planning. The events left students and faculty feeling alienated and administrators defensive. “It’s something that we thought would really benefit students,” Leslie said. “We put out some feelers initially, but we had to make a decision to meet the (Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board) deadlines, which we got pushed back. No one was responding, so I made a decision,” he said. Ultimately, it was a decision that bypassed college and district curriculum committees and, even though it was approved by the district board of trustees, spurred investigation from the regional accrediting agency that threatened the reaffirmation of Northwest Vista, St. Philip’s and this college. In April, Leslie chose not to pursue the course until the colleges were able to decide for themselves whether or not they wanted the course implemented. “Two humanities courses aren’t really the best idea for students. This course would have really benefited them,” Leslie said. “The state department doesn’t necessitate the second humanities. So I began working with
the data and made my decision. The faculty fought it, so we decided not to continue the course of action and open up the dialog faculty wanted.” On Wednesday, Jo-Carol Fabianke, vice chancellor of academic success, said she knows the Presidents and Vice Chancellor Committee, or PVC, will be talking about the course again soon, but she does not know when. “There has been no planning this term, but on (Sept. 26) we had representatives from FranklinCovey come and talk to us about some new materials they’re developing. We’ve gone ahead and made those materials available to faculty to use for any course, not just EDUC 1300, as supplementary material,” she said. Fabianke explained the goal from the beginning has been to integrate the leadership principles of “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” into the entire curriculum, and administrators still believe requiring students to take EDUC 1300 is the best way to do that. Leslie said he wants to review data from the 88 sections of EDUC 1300 being offered this semester districtwide. He plans to make a decision for next fall in the spring. Neil Lewis, humanities professor at
Northwest Vista, supported students who fought against the course in the spring and said he is worried if administrators bypass policies again, the outcome will be the same. “It’s troubling,” he said. Lewis wants to make sure Leslie, the board and vice chancellors understand there are certain policies that need to be followed and the Alamo Colleges Curriculum Committee, which has faculty and administrators among its members, is consulted. “They’re the experts,” Lewis said. “Let the experts figure out where this course can best go, or if it should even go. We don’t want to risk the reaccreditation of our colleges by not following the rules.” District 8 trustee Clint Kingsbery said he voted against the charges to the chancellor because he did not agree with them. However, he is hopeful. “The charges had a lot of give and take. My thought on it is, as long as it fits through the proper process without any work around, then the issues with EDUC 1300 will hopefully be worked out. There are a number of opportunities for faculty and students to provide input if the process proceeds as it should,” he said.
Chalking it up to free speech Event encourages chalk graffiti expression.
their First Amendment rights, said journalism Instructor Irene Abrego. The department and the Society By Amanda K. Tetens of Professional Journalists student sac-ranger@alamo.edu chapter sponsor the annual event, The Ranger’s annual Chalk Day which corresponds with National is 10 a.m.-noon today, giving particNewspaper Week. ipants the chance to celebrate free Students can write or draw what speech by scribbling, drawing and they think and feel – poetry, quotes, writing with chalk on sketches, song lyrics the mall walkway. – as long as it is kept No writing In March 2004, Gil clean. on the walls Castillo, former assisAbrego said she and keep all tant director of student recognizes the irony of expressions to life, caught students policing language at a the mall. drawing with chalk free speech event, but Irene Abrego on the brick walkshe has a reason. journalism Instructor ways west of Moody “This is a college, Learning Center. and I think everyone’s He was upset; not about the artvocabulary should be good enough so work, but that they did not ask for they can say what they mean without permission. relying on vulgarity or obscenities,” Little did Castillo know, he was Abrego said. inspiring a tradition at this college by One other guideline is no writing asking the students to stop what they on the walls and keep all expressions were up to. to the mall. This was the birth of Chalk Day. Abrego, who has a sign in her office Castillo’s actions inspired The reading, “Chalk is cheap, free speech Ranger to write an editorial announcisn’t,” said everyone is welcome to ing Chalk Day for students to express participate.
’’
A student draws with chalk on the walkway between Loftin and the chemistry and geology building in October 2013 at The Ranger’s Chalk Day to celebrate free speech. The Ranger hosts Chalk Day 10 a.m.-noon today in the mall. Chalk is provided by The Ranger. File.
Shot records Beginning Sept. 15, the meningitis immunization records collection is going to be outsourced to Magnus Health, the same company used by Texas A&M UniversitySan Antonio to decrease the lines at the business and Alexandra Nelipa admissions and records offices, Ortega said. Magnus enables students to submit a record and pay a $10 fee through the postal service, by fax or online.
M.J. Callahan
Tables replacing desks in classrooms Replacement takes time and change is limited to renovations. By Cassandra M. Rodriguez sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Tables and chairs, not desks, in classrooms is the district standard, but not every college has been alloted the budget to meet that standard. “The direction that the district is going is providing tables and chairs where possible in classrooms,” said David Mrizek, vice president of college services at this college. Classrooms have to sustain an average number of students for it to occur, Mrizek said. “This has caused some difficulties in buildings like the Chance where the classrooms are small and putting tables and chairs would reduce the capacity dramatically, but we have been doing that
in buildings and rooms where possible,” he said. “Tables are probably better because they have more space and feel more connected as a group,” Travis Doyle, radio-television-film sophomore, said. “I believe Northeast Lakeview College is all tables and chairs because it’s new and I think every room at Northwest Vista College is all tables and chairs,” said John Strybos, associate vice chancellor of facilities. “A lot of the older buildings, we haven’t gotten to, so they are going to have desks,” Strybos said, adding as the colleges have opportunities to renovate buildings, tables and chairs will replace desks. “I don’t know that it’s a requirement or a policy because it’s more like a practice,” he said. “It’s the best practice we should be doing.”
He said part of it is how the physique of students has changed over time and it is easier for housekeeping to clean around tables compared to desks, which also will save money. “For the majority of the student population, the tables and chairs work better than desks,” he said. “It’s about providing a more effective learning environment for students.” Strybos said having tables and chairs in all rooms is funding constrained. “I have zero budget to buy furniture so if it is my job to buy the furniture, it’s not going to happen,” he said. “The exceptions are when we need total renovations in some of our buildings like the Moody Learning Center here at this college,” he said. “In general, case by case, building by building, room by room, we’re trying to put tables and chairs in all the rooms and there is no set deadline,” Strybos said.
News
4 • Oct. 6, 2014
www.theranger.org/news
Alamo Colleges may offer bachelor’s degrees American Sign Language and fire science are potential programs. By Katherine Garcia
kgarcia203@student.alamo.edu
Raul Moreno signals to Thomas Eccleston of Texas Towing to stop a flatbed truck Tuesday at EcoCentro. The repurposed container came from district offices on Pat Booker Road, and will be used for experimental projects related to hydroponic gardening and storage. The container will be modified with windows, doors and a green roof made of plants that will drape along the sides, EcoCentro Director Steven Lewis said. Read more about Saturday’s Solar Fest online. Neven Jones
Headquarter proposals to be discussed Oct. 14 By Katherine Garcia
kgarcia203@student.alamo.edu
Two proposals have been submitted for a $131 million central district headquarters at 222 N. Alamo St., the former site of Playland Amusement Park, John Strybos, associate vice chancellor of facilities, said. The proposals will be discussed at 6 p.m. Oct. 14 by the Building, Grounds and Sites Committee of the board. The Ranger reported March 21 the original request for bids said a partnership would involve a public-private agreement or an “offer to exchange qualifying existing property.” The proposals fall under a leaseexchange property agreement, Strybos said. Properties the district had available for exchange include offices on West Houston Street, Killen Center on West Sheridan and the Northeast Center on Pat Booker Road. The district also owns land west of
Interstate 10 at the Kendall County line purchased for a sixth college. The original request for bids was a “competitive request for proposals,” so information on the proposals can’t be made public until they are responded to, said Ross Laughead, the district’s general counsel. The request stated the building would have 146,166 assignable square feet for offices and 224,870 gross square feet for hallways, mechanical spaces and restrooms. Office dimensions range from 64 square feet to the chancellor’s 2,795 assignable square feet in 4,300 gross square feet, including a private restroom and shower. About 30 potential developers attended a conference regarding a request for bids April 3. The site was originally purchased for $4.131 million July 18, 2008, and was used as extra parking for students at this college until fall 2012.
The Alamo Colleges is considering offering bachelor’s degrees in fire science and American Sign Language at this college, Jo-Carol Fabianke, vice chancellor of student success, said in a phone interview Wednesday. According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, three community colleges in Texas currently offer bachelor’s degrees: Brazosport College in Lake Jackson, South Texas College in McAllen and Midland College in Midland. All institutions started by offering a Bachelor of Applied Technology and major in technology management in 2004, and Brazosport offered a major in computer technology. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board recommended to the Texas Legislature during the 83rd legislative session that more community colleges be allowed to offer bachelor’s degrees after researching the benefits the degrees have on the local workforce. The bill was passed June 14. Fabianke said the Alamo Colleges has expressed a desire to the state to offer programs such as fire science and American Sign Language, both of which are offered at this college. Students may take core classes at other colleges and then finish the degree at this college.
Research Volunteers Needed Researchers at the UT Health Science Center need:
Healthy volunteers ages 18 to 29 who have a parent with or without a history of an alcohol or drug problem Qualified participants will be compensated for their time
Call (210) 567-0793 to learn more about the study and to see if you qualify
www.pptrust.org
• Seven San Antonio Locations
96
years providing women, men, and young people with the education, information, of clients at or below 150% and services needed to make of the federal poverty level. responsible choices about sex of all health services and reproduction. are contraceptive. are age 8 in 10 clients 20 and older.
76%
34%
900,000 clients served by
Planned Parenthood-supported partners in 10 developing countries.
activists, supporters, and donors.
estimated number
584,000
6 million+ 3/4
of clients receive services to prevent unintended pregnancies.
of unintended pregnancies averted by contraceptive services each year.
3%
ONLY
in male clients 105% increase from 2000 to 2010.
of all services are abortion services
The Alamo Colleges can offer a regional workforce needs in Texas four-year degree in an area where a to determine the regions of the state workforce need is determined and that would benefit from authorizano other colleges in the area offer tion of baccalaureate degree prothe degree. grams in the field of nursing and the A lot of planning is required to field of applied life sciences at public offer the degrees, including making community colleges.” sure of the teaching qualifications “The board (of trustees) current professors need to be able approved a legislative priority that to teach classstates the es for bachdevelopment The Alamo Colleges elor’s degrees, process by will be ready to offer Fabianke said. which coltestimony if needed Several years leges who in favor of a four-year ago, Chancellor d e m o n s t ra t e degree at the Alamo Bruce Leslie need can offer Colleges. contacted other degrees to stuLeo Zuniga, dents,” said Alamo Colleges vice chancellor of and state offiLeo Zuniga, communications for the district cials to explore vice chancelthe opportulor of community, she said. nications for the district. Fabianke said the possibility was According to the legislative sesnot feasible in the past because of a sion summary, the district would lack of support for the initiative, but have to cancel any articulation the student success committee of agreements after five years of the board of trustees discussed the approval. This means if this colissue Aug. 12. lege were to offer fire science or The presentation can be found American Sign Language bachelor’s in the district website in the agendegrees, courses for those programs da, “Attachment: THECB Success can’t be transferred to a four-year Point Implementation to Success college because the degree would Council 7/8/14.” be offered here instead. More extensive plans of action According to Senate Bill from the regular board meeting 215, the Texas Higher Education can be found online at the disCoordinating Board must approve trict’s website, in agendas under all baccalaureate degree proposals “E. Presentation on 2015 Legislative except engineering degrees. Agenda” of “11. Chancellor’s “The Alamo Colleges will be Report.” ready to offer testimony if needed According to the 83rd Texas in favor of a four-year degree at the Legislature summary, the proposed Alamo Colleges,” said Leo Zuniga, Senate Bill 414 requires the coordivice chancellor of communications nating board to “conduct a study of for the district.
’’
www.theranger.org/news
Oct. 6, 2014 • 5
WILL YOU SURVIVE THE CURSE?
A CURSE IS SPREADING
$30
AFTER 7 PM
To redeem, enter promo code CURSED at HOWLOSCREAM.COM/TX Offer valid through October 31, 2014. Restrictions apply. See website for details.
MK080414-12 College Newspaper - SAC v2
© 2014 SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
SURVIVE A NIGHT FULL OF UNDEAD BEINGS AND PARANORMAL TERRORS THROUGH ALL 12 TERRIFYING ATTRACTIONS AND YOU JUST MIGHT SURVIVE THE CURSE.
Prem
6 • www.theranger.org/premiere
Illustrations by Ansley Lewis
LGBT community welcomes all
Trevor Project aims to help LGBT youth
Open dialogue necessary for understanding sexual equality.
An Academy Award-winning short film inspires suicide prevention resources.
By Juan Anthony Rodriguez
By Adriana Ruiz
The lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community has always sought to bring public attention to issues involving sexual orientation, sexual identity and gender identity, an Esperanza Peace and Justice Center staff member named Sacred said Sept. 29. Sexuality, once defined as simply gay or straight, has grown to include lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, Sacred said. Moreover, those definitions now go beyond sexual preference to include gender identity, or a person’s identification as man or woman, she said. Queer, which was once used as a derogatory term, “has been reclaimed to empower and identify people who do not conform to gender-specific identities,” Sacred said. The LGBT community has unofficially added the letters “IQQAA” – for intersex, questioning, queer, asexual and ally – to its acronym, according to www.algbtical.org. Intersex, previously known as “hermaphrodite,” is defined as someone whose chromosomes, hormonal profiles and anatomy do not conform to expected configurations of typical male or female bodies. Questioning refers to a person’s uncertainty about his or her sexual orientation or gender identity, accompanied by a period of self-exploration, according to www.algbtical.org. Asexuality is the absence of desire and sexual interest in males or females, a lifelong void of sexual attraction. An ally is anyone who supports and honors sexual and gender diversity, and acts to challenge homophobic, heterosexist and transphobic remarks or behaviors. “Including all people and not excluding anyone is the focus of a GLBT activist,” Sacred said.
The first national 24-hour suicide prevention hotline for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth, The Trevor Project, provides counseling, resources and education for young people who are contemplating suicide. According to the project’s website, its vision is “a future where the possibilities, opportunities and dreams are the same for all youth, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.” The Trevor Project was inspired by a character in the Academy Award-winning short film Trevor, the story of a 13-year-old boy contemplating suicide after being shunned by classmates because of his sexual orientation. Wes Nemenz, senior education manager at The Trevor Project, said the 24-hour crisis hotline started in 1998 on the day HBO premiered the short film. He said counselors received many phone calls the first day and now answer between 35,000 and 36,000 calls per year. Nemenz said the hotline started during a time when lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community issues were acknowledged. In addition, The Trevor Project offers online resources such as TrevorChat, an instant messaging service; TrevorText, a text messaging service; Ask Trevor, a question and answer service; and TrevorSpace, a social networking site. Nemenz said the project works with counselors who are trained to listen to those struggling with sexual orientation. “Our approach is to listen and be that safe person that they may lack in their lives,”
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
aruiz168@student.alamo.edu
Nemenz said. He said the best way to help someone contemplating suicide is to sit down and express concern for their well-being. He said although it is tough and scary asking someone if they are planning to kill themselves, it may be the best way to start helping them. “Be that friend who is not afraid to ask that question,” Nemenz said. “Intervene in someone’s life and then be able to connect them to a resource.” Someone contemplating suicide is likely to
exhibit red flags, such as feeling unimportant, trapped and hopeless. Other signs include chronic drug and alcohol use, according to The Trevor Project website. Nemenz said the biggest red flag would be if someone has planned a “where, when and how.” He said if someone has a detailed plan or put a lot of time, effort and detail into their plan, it is time to intervene. The Trevor Project also offers resources, such as the Coming Out as You constellation, a printable star-shaped guide on the personal pros and cons of coming out. The constellation asks users to list their support network, the environment into which they are coming out and their sexual orientation or interests. It also offers self-care to stay healthy and resources to help cope with coming out. Nemenz described the constellation as “a pocket-sized resource that can help you navigate your own coming-out experience in a safe, thoughtful way.” He said coming out can be confusing, especially for youth, but the constellation can help narrow all of the external noise and get to the bigger picture. For more information, visit www.thetrevorproject.org The 24-hour suicide prevention hotline is 1-866-488-7386.
miere
Oct. 6, 2014 • 7
Staying in the closet robbed PAC graduate of meeting new people The Human Rights Campaign offers resources to people who need help coming out. By Pam Paz
ppaz2@student.alamo.edu
People have different preferences: chocolate to vanilla, rock music to country and day to night. Ronda Calvillo, who earned an associate of art from Palo Alto College in 2002 and a bachelor of art in psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2006, prefers women to men. At 5-years old she realized she was attracted to the same sex, but knew it
was not socially accepted. A physical education teacher at Calvillo’s Catholic school saw her kissing girls at recess and called her mother because she was concerned, she said during an interview Sept. 28. “My mom had a talk with me, sat me down and told me what the teacher said, and I said, ‘I did, we were playing,’ but I knew by the look on her face, by her tone, that she though it wasn’t right,” said Calvillo, a 35-year -old operations manager for the local retailer HEB. Calvillo told her twin sister about her sexuality for the first time when she was 13 years old. Though her twin kept her secret, Calvillo said the stress of hiding her sexuality was difficult during high school. “I put up fronts, had boyfriends and went on dates just so my friends wouldn’t speculate,” she said. It was not until 1999 when she was 19 that she came out to her family. She said she felt a sense of relief when she told them because they were supportive and she was finally able to introduce girlfriends to her family. However, she still hid it from her friends, causing her anxiety. “I had a lot of anxiety because I was dating women and hiding it,” Calvillo said. There was an unspoken rule between
Ronda Calvillo, PAC and University of Texas at San Antonio graduate, told her coming-out story at Dave and Busters Sept. 28. Calvillo hid her sexual orientation from her family until the age of 19, but did not fully come out to friends until she was 25. Pam Paz her and the women she dated that she would keep it a secret. “I would make it known that I wasn’t out, and so the women I’d date were forced back in the closet, even though they were already out,” she said. “That was depressing in itself because it never worked out.” Calvillo said if someone asked about girlfriends, she became defensive. “People have this stigma about gay people … that we don’t have any stan-
dards and we’ll chase anyone,” she said. When she finally came out at 25, she said,“It was like being cured of cancer, I think at some point, I just allowed people to assume I was gay because I was who I was, and it became the norm.” She said “being in the closet” robbed her of opportunities and fear kept her from being happy. “It’s like I didn’t develop my wings till I jumped,” she said. Though social norms are changing,
it’s still difficult for some to accept difficulties, Calvillo said. Calvillo said young people often seek her advice on coming out. She said the experience of coming out gets gradually better and easier, but people should only do it when they are ready. “I would never encourage anyone to come out until they are ready,” she said. Suppressing sexual orientation can lead to losing who you are, she said. The Human Rights Campaign, is the largest national civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. The organization represents a force of more than 1.5 million members and supporters nationwide — all committed to making HRC’s vision a reality, according to their website. Calvillo said people who identify as gay or lesbian should feel encouraged by how far the gay community has come in recent years. Though gay marriage is still not legal in Texas, Calvillo said she feels optimistic about the future. She said she wants her future family to have the same health, retirement , and death benefits, for example, as straight families. Her biggest regret is denying herself happiness, wasting time by hiding who she was and not giving herself the opportunity to find the right person. “Here I am at 35, and I’m still single,” she said. Though she is not in a relationship, she said if the right person came along, she would be willing to take a chance. Visit www.hrc.org/campaigns/coming-out-center.
Coming Out Week: “Out and About at San Antonio College” Fair: Coming Out week opening festival 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in the mall. Participating organizations include GetEQUAL Texas, Beat AIDS Foundation of San Antonio, San Antonio AIDS Foundation, Project H.O.T., Equal Rights for Veterans, Wells Fargo and this college’s GALA.
Movie: Introduction of documentary film “Bridegroom: A Love Story, Unequaled” by Shane Bitney Crone 6:30 p.m. in McAllister auditorium. Question-and-answer session will follow the film.
Discussion: “HIV 101” by Ezekiel Gonzalez of the Beat AIDS Foundation of San Antonio 10:50 a.m.-12:05 p.m. in Room 201 of chemistry and biology building. Gonzalez will discuss HIV prevention and awareness, as well as living with the virus.
Game: “Drag Queen Bingo” noon-1:30 p.m. in the craft room of Loftin Student Center.
Workshop: “From Drab to Drag: How To Be A Drag Queen” in the craft room of Loftin Student Center. Drag queens will demonstrate their techniques on applying makeup.
Discussion: History lecture on “Gays in America” by history Professor Jonathan Lee. Lee will discuss LGBT history, with a focus in legal rights 1:40 p.m.-2:55 p.m. in Room 201 of chemistry and geology building.
Discussion: Ann Margaret Trujillo, associate director for the inclusion and community engagement center at the University of Texas at San Antonio, will introduce UTSA’s Safe Zone training initiative, which creates supportive workplace and academic environments for the LGBT community. Discussion at 10 a.m. in the Honors Academy, Room 122 of Chance Academic Center.
8 • Oct. 6, 2014
www.theranger.org/editorial
.org
the
ranger
Editorial
Editor Bleah B. Patterson News Editor M.J. Callahan Sections Editor Adriana Ruiz Calendar Editor Pam Paz Staff Writers Jose Arredondo, Anthony B. Botello, Dorothy P. Braziel, Ana Victoria Cano, Casey Levane Coggins, Ian Coleman, Kyle Cotton, R. Eguia, S.T. Fegins, Marina Garcia, Sarah Garrett, Tim Hernandez, Cynthia M. Herrera, M. A. Horta, R.T. Gonzalez, Shawntell Johnson, Deven Malone, Richard Montemayor, Nathalie Mora, Landon Penn, Cassandra M. Rodriguez, Juan Anthony Rodriguez, Lily Teran, Amanda K. Tetens, Jennifer M. Ytuarte Photo Editor Daniel Carde Photographers David Guel, Neven Jones Photo Team Milena Arias, Manuel Bautista, Anthony Carrizales, Christopher Hernandez, Javier Hernandez, Ayesa Hinojosa, Charis Kempen, Reynaldo Ruiz, Amy Staggs, Taylor Tribbey Illustrators Ansley Lewis, Alexandra Nelipa Production Manager Mandy Derfler Promotions Manager Katherine Garcia ©2014 by The Ranger staff, San Antonio College, 1300 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212-4299. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. The Ranger news outlets, which serve the Alamo Community College District, are laboratory projects of journalism classes in the Department of Media Communications at San Antonio College. The Ranger is published Mondays except during summer, holidays and examinations. The Ranger Online is available at www.theranger.org. News contributions accepted by telephone (210-486-1773), by fax (210-486-9292), by email (sac-ranger@alamo.edu) or at the editorial office (Room 212 of Loftin Student Center). Advertising rates available upon request by phone (210-486-1765) or as a download at www.theranger.org. The Ranger is a member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press and the Texas Community College Journalism Association. Guest Viewpoints: Faculty, staff, students and community members are welcome to contribute guest viewpoints of up to 450 words. Writers should focus on campus or current events in a critical, persuasive or interpretative style. All viewpoints must be published with a photo portrait of the writer. Letters Policy: The Ranger invites readers to share views by writing letters to the editor. Space limitations force the paper to limit letters to two double-spaced, typewritten pages. Letters will be edited for spelling, style, grammar, libel and length. Editors reserve the right to deny publication of any letter. Letters should be mailed to The Ranger, Department of Media Communications, San Antonio College, 1300 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio TX 78212-4299. Letters also may be brought to the newspaper office in Room 212 of Loftin Student Center, emailed to sac-ranger@alamo.edu or faxed to 210-486-9292. Letters must be signed and must include the printed name and telephone number. Students should include classification, major, campus and Banner ID. Employees should include title and telephone number. For more information, call 210-486-1773. Single Copy Policy: Members of the Alamo Community College District community are permitted one free copy per issue because of high production costs. Where available, additional copies may be purchased with prior approval for 50 cents each by contacting The Ranger business office. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single-copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and subject to college discipline.
LETTERS Student feels wronged by district Editor: Removing majors from our degrees is wrong and announcing it months prior with no student approval is disingenuous. It was a cowardly move by Dr. Robert Vela, and the chancellor, to wait until Sept. to announce a decision that was made in March. Did they factor in how many students would be affected by this decision? Perhaps because of all the controversy after the last big announcement, the standardized-Internet textbooks, they decided they would remove all transparency from this decision. I am pursuing a second Associate Degree not because I ‘m “watering down my degree,” as Dr. Vela states, but because I can’t afford univer-
sity and want to stay academically active while I’m saving. Had I known the opportunity of receiving a second degree would be removed without a warning, perhaps I would have chosen to work instead.
Matthew Reyna, RTVB Sophomore
Letters Policy:
The Ranger encourages readers to voice opinions by submitting letters to the editor. Letters should be emailed to sac-ranger@alamo.edu or submitted at theranger.org. Click “contact us,” then click “submit a letter.” Letters must include a printed name and telephone number. A student’s major, classification, campus, and Banner ID need to be included. Employees should include titles. Letters should not exceed two pages.
ONLINE NOW
Special board meeting to approve black box theater in Tobin
Alexandra Nelipa
Shopaholics anonymous? District officials claim they spend money on upgrades and remodels across the Alamo Colleges for the benefit of the students. However, are they being smart with our money? More than two years ago the district bought the land formerly home to Playland Park, however, it still stands empty. At this college, hallways lead nowhere and remodeled buildings are not staffed. The bookstore in Loftin Student Center could once be accessed from the south side of the building as well as the current north entrance. Now a hallway leads from a first floor exterior entrance to the basement that has been untouched for years, resulting in paint peeling off the walls. Access to San Pedro Avenue from West Dewey Street was closed during a campus overhaul years ago. The recently retired president once anticipated a small amphitheater there. Instead, cargo containers, one for each department, filled with old office furniture files, and other campus materials were stacked. The containers were slowly removed but seem to be returning. Instead of discarded furniture and equipment being auctioned off as in the past, it
is now just trashed. So much for the Alamo Colleges being green. The updated library in Moody has many rooms for students to study alone or in groups but not the budget to support the necessary staff. We keep expanding facilities but not the faculty to make them useful. Over the summer, the electricity gets turned off for cost savings. Custodial workers are forgotten, forced to work in the heat, and historic materials rot without proper climate control. Like the state of Texas, the Alamo Colleges excel in dubious categories. We can boast one of the highest paid administrations in Texas while employees, who hold sway on the nation’s future, live paycheck to paycheck. The college made a deal with Tobin Hill to give away student parking in a private-public partnership. Now that the project is almost complete, the district is preparing to pay $88,000 annually in rent for a welcome center — in a building built on college land — and $16,000 annually for use of a black box theater promised in the original design. Meanwhile, none of these expenditures really do much for students.
Stand up to be heard The board of trustees is supposed to be a champion of students’ best interests in response to administrative requests for action. Board members can’t do that if they don’t know what students need. Administration submits proposals to the board, but the board still has to vote before anything can be implemented. Should they decide a proposal is not in students’ best interest, they can vote against it. To help the board understand what should pass and what should go back to the drawing board, students should speak out about their wants, needs, complaints and compliments. Citizens-to-be-heard is a forum for people to address the board at the monthly regular and committee meetings before proposals are sent to vote. Participants wanting to address the board can sign up from 5-5:55 p.m. at a kiosk outside Room 101 at the district offices at 201 W. Sheridan. If trustees do not hear from anyone, the board can only act on their own beliefs or blindly follow administrators’ wishes.
Alternatively, when students or taxpayers do speak, the board needs to pay attention. They shouldn’t be checking texts, taking a break or holding a private conversation. Listening is their job. They aren’t even required to reply to comments in the citizens-to-be-heard portion of the meeting. The least they can do is listen. To come to an understanding of what students actually need versus what administrators think is best, students and board members need to have an active dialogue. Students and faculty spoke against the standardization of textbooks across the district and the addition of EDUC 1300, Learning Framework, to the core last semester. After multiple people spoke out against these issues, the board decided to halt the initiatives until a better solution was found. Get educated on what is happening around campus and within the district by following board minutes and news, then take concerns to the appropriate place. Students are more empowered than some would have us believe.
Opinion
www.theranger.org/opinion
Oct. 6, 2014 • 9
Drinking and driving – you can’t afford it How my ‘good night out’ cost me more than $10,000. I never knew a “good night out” on the town with friends could be so expensive. Viewpoint I was arrested and by Daniel charged with driving while Carde intoxicated May 10. dcarde@student. alamo.edu The previous week had been a blur of tragedy and anxiety, and I thought I deserved a fun escape. On May 4, I learned my friend, John Villafranco, drowned while saving his wife from a cold river after their kayak capsized April 21 in New York. Then, on May 6, my grandfather Benjamin Card succumbed to cancer. The following day, my stepfather, Evan Green, had a lump surgically removed from his right side. The oncologist was concerned it was a recurrence of renal cell carcinoma. He was right. Those were my reasons for doing what I did. They do not excuse my actions. I take full responsibility for the reckless and dangerous decision I made. After those three rough days, I decided I needed a night out with friends to do some-
thing enjoyable. A Friday-night punk rock show at Hi-Tones, followed by a trip to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 76 seemed like it would be a great morale booster. (Though I am a veteran, I am not a veteran of a foreign war.) Beer and Jameson shots flowed as my friends made toasts to my grandfather and my friend. The more I drank, though, the more the events of the week seemed to consume my mind. With food becoming the only other thing I could think about, I decided to grab a meal and then go home. I didn’t think about taking a cab or getting a ride with a sober driver as I normally would. As I pulled into the two-way, left-turn lane to enter McDonald’s, a car heading the opposite direction entered the lane as well. Our driver’s side front corner panels collided. I had been drinking; the other driver had not, so I was found at fault, arrested and charged with DWI. I only had liability insurance coverage, and my car was deemed a total loss. There went $3,000. I had to pay an impound fee and towing fee from when my undriveable car was towed to the impound lot and then home the next day. The fees cost around $250.
During court, I was ordered to get a portable in-home Breathalyzer unit for nine months. The Breathalyzer cost an initial $105 to rent, plus a $75-a-month recalibration charge and a $45 end-of-service fee. Add another $750 to my bill. I was required to attend a DWI live-victim impact panel where the father of a boy killed by a drunk driver spoke about the accident that took his son’s life. A man who survived being hit by a drunk driver also spoke about when he was hit and his long road to recovery. I also had to attend three days of DWI education classes and pay for a drug and alcohol evaluation. The total for classes, evaluation and impact panel cost about $120. Part of my retribution included 75 hours of community service. I could have made $750 had I been working instead of doing community service. I spent $150 to replace the cell phone I lost while being arrested. Pay phone calls in the Central Magistrate’s Office and the cost of bail totaled around $400. Court fees and probation fees totaled about $2,000. My driver’s license was suspended for six months, and if I want to reinstate it, I have to pay $3,120 over 36 months to the Texas
Department of Public Safety. The rather violent arrest by police chipped one of my front teeth. I don’t know how much it will cost to get it fixed. I was unable to go home to Salt Lake City, Utah, and work a job I had set up for the summer because the court ordered me to remain in Bexar County until December 2015. That is $4,800 in wages I didn’t earn. I recently went to visit my family back home in Utah, but I had to get a judge’s permission before I could go. Upon returning from Utah, I was ordered to do a drug and alcohol test at a cost of $20. Feel free to add $15,360 to the bill for what was supposed to be my “good night out.” If I could somehow place a monetary value on the embarrassment and regret from the incident, I would place the grand total as greater than $250,000. Had I killed someone, I wouldn’t be able to place a value on the night. I am very grateful I didn’t. Lesson learned and duly noted — never again. Editor’s note: The family name was misspelled as Carde when Benjamin Card entered the military. Family members choose the version they prefer.
Staff writer arrested after friend’s drugs found in car A cautionary tale of keeping the right company and not their belongings. I owe the state of Texas $800 for a bail bond, $400 for a misdemeanor Viewpoint marijuana posby R. Eguia session fine, and I sac-ranger@ alamo.edu paid $300 to recover my car from being impounded at my arrest. I am eager to find out what lawyer fees and court fees accumulate in the next couple of months as I hope to get the charges dismissed. My personal expenses do not compare however, to the amount that you will pay for my arrest. According to the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition, it costs taxpayers $120 to arrest and book one person in an urban Texas county, and then another $62.97 for each day that the individual is detained. Multiply these numbers by the 10 percent of total arrests in Texas for simple drug possession and taxpayers spend $378,820 every day on those arrested and incarcerated for drug possession, and that number is only increasing. I was driving to dance rehearsal on Wurzbach when I passed a brand
new model of police car. Passing the speed limit sign of 35, I glanced at my speedometer: 41. I was surprised when I saw the police car double back and turn the lights on in my direction. I pulled over to inquire but never received a speeding citation. What I did receive overwhelmed me. After presenting my insurance and identification, the officer said my car smelled like marijuana and asked me to get out of the vehicle. When I asked if he had a warrant, he replied that he did not need one because he had “probable cause.” He told me if I cooperated and gave him anything in the car, he would be much more lenient. Cooperatively, I presented a pipe and a teeny tiny nugget of marijuana that was left in my car’s console the day before by a friend I was on my way to meet. There was actually a substantial amount of my friends’ belongings in my car from weekend shenanigans that were in route to be returned to rightful owners at dance rehearsal. I assured him there was nothing else in the car.
The officer called for assistance and three officers responded, including a female officer who searched me. After almost an hour of officers checking every single article of clothing in my backseat, including weekend luggage and friends’ workout bags, the officer who pulled me over found a flashlight with marijuana inside it. As he was cuffing me, he told me I was under arrest for possession. I tried to explain that the flashlight he found was in someone else’s bag, and I was ignorant of the fact the flashlight was full of weed. He called me a liar and told to me to tell the judge. The backseat of the cruiser was really nice, not plastic like I had assumed. A computer monitor was positioned in the center console projecting a high contrast image of me sitting in handcuffs. As we headed downtown, the officer let me pick the radio station and was surprised when I requested the jazz station. Upon arrival, I was photographed, fingerprinted, and searched again in the middle of the magistrate’s office, surrounded by fearless, windowhumping men.
As the officer walked me over to the women’s holding cell, she assured me none of the women were felons. I crossed the threshold with peace signs and salutations toward my fellow jail friends, who were lying on the floor and sitting on the long single bench in the long single cell. Many were in for tickets and warrants and the rest, prostitution and shoplifting. As a first-time jailed person, I learned the process from my arresting officer and shared with other first-timers: wait about two hours and see the judge. Wait about another two hours to discuss bail bonds. Then wait until your bond is processed, which depending on the bond can take any where from two hours to one day. I was eligible for a personal recognizance bond, which you have to supply references for and then those references must be contacted for the bond to be processed. I was booked at 8:30 p.m. and released at 7:30 a.m. just in time for my 8 a.m. lecture at SAC. Sitting in class, it sunk in what had just happened. My boyfriend’s voice echoed in my mind, articulating all of the things
SERVICE from Page 1
LEGISLATURE from Page 1
office so we can have them on file and best accommodate them,” De Luna said. A confidential letter is sent to instructors so they are aware of the student’s disability and required accommodations. According to district policy, an emotional-support dog is not permitted on campus; however, the district does not require documentation and cannot ask the student for a proof of service animal certification. De Luna said that there is a fine line differentiating a service dog from an emotional-support dog. Most of the time you can tell
of the value of the education and the experience students will gain from their courses. “What we’re trying to do, ultimately, is reduce waste,” Leslie said, “wasted time and money.” “The issue is transferring. So many schools require different courses for a major. “We want to be flexible and allow students to take what they need for bachelor’s degrees. “We want them to graduate here, yes, but we ultimately want them to get a bachelor’s degree,” he said. Leslie said everything else is just semantics and policy. “If we were in California or Florida, then this might be different, easier,” he said. “But this is Texas and we have to work with that,” Leslie said. Leslie said the district’s legislative agendas for the 84th session beginning January 2015, which include aligning course numbers statewide at both community colleges
Chance gives English freshman Lacey Haugse a kiss. Milena Arias when a dog is trained because they are very well behaved and listen to commands, De Luna said.
I did wrong, including letting the cops search my car without a warrant. I could have locked my car and placed the keys on the vehicle and demanded a warrant, but I struggled to reason under the pressure of the cops. I could have cleaned my car out and left my friends’ belongings at home or refused to hold them at all. I don’t blame the owner of the flashlight or the paraphernalia left in my console, although I do wish they had disclosed the contraband. There is also the hovering thought of if this were to take place in a state only hours away, I would have walked away from the entire escapade. Despite the repercussions of the charges, I stand inspired. The decriminalization of marijuana is a relevant debate, that I am now personally invested in. Texas has the fourth highest incarceration rate and a large percentage is composed of nonviolent drug charges. The state can have my money, but they can’t have me. This experience has served as the best catalyst for my involvement in pushing the Texas Legislature to decriminalize marijuana.
and universities, will help solve this problem. “Right now we’re dealing with a lot of uncertainty, but our intent is to attain legislation creating a common core numbering system. “We presented it last session but were defeated. The bill will be refiled for this legislative session.” “But winning over the legislature is a much bigger issue,” Leslie said. The Academic Course Guide Manual regulated all of the community college course numbers in the state, but four-year universities do not have to regulate their. In the meantime, Leslie said, he is taking the work district officials have done with San Antonio Independent School District and creating similar relationships with four-year universities and a pathway from high school through college graduation and into the workforce. It might not be a perfect system, Leslie said, “but we’re doing everything we can to help students become successful and not waste their time or money.”
Feature
10 • Oct. 6, 2014
Freestyle dancer Arthur Jenkins performs a break dance routine without any music Sept. 28. “Even if there is no music, I can still hear a beat in my head,” he said.
Stephanie Padilla, cosplay actress, dressed as “Anna” from “Frozen,” sings along with Jack Williams, dressed as “Deadpool,” Sept. 27 during Alamo City Comic Con at
www.theranger.org/news
the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center. Williams called her over as he began Demi Lovato’s version of “Let It Go.” He coaxed her into singing while he gestured along.
Superheroes, mutants, Villains converge for comic con Story and photos by Christopher A. Hernandez sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Actors, artists and writers occupied downtown. Masked vigilantes and extraordinary people of superhuman strength were spotted roaming the streets of downtown this weekend. Superheroes graced the city Sept. 26-28 for the second Alamo City Comic Con, the city’s largest celebration of comic arts, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. People of all ages took the opportunity to dress up as their favorite comic characters, and meet and greet their favorite celebrities, voice actors, artists and writers. Stars of AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” Iron-E Singleton who portrays “T-Dog” and Scott Wilson who plays “Hershel,” were on hand posing for photos and signing autographs for $40. Singleton said seeing all the loyal fans gives him all the joy in the world. “To the college fans, I say stick with it,” Singleton said. “Never stop; love what you are doing because that is how you will succeed. With just a
STUDY By Dorothy P. Braziel
Computer technician Frank Labrada drove from Laredo Sept. 26 to buy an autograph from Marvel’s Stan Lee. little show of respect for yourself and others, you will go far.” Numerous vendors offered new and old comics, collectibles and toys, ranging from $5 to hundreds. The original “Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles” cast answered questions in a panel discussion. Fans lined up for photos with George Takei, Lt. Sulu from the original “Star Trek” series; Karan Ashley, the yellow Power Ranger; Clark Gregg, Marvel’s Agents of Shields’ Agent Coulson; and Ming Chen of AMC’s “Comic Book Men.” Fans also bid on quick draw
“Its a boy!” yells Robert Englund as “Freddy Krueger,” grabbing speech pathology sophomore Kristina Carnes’ baby bump Sept. 27. competitions between artists Sean Morales and Javier Avila. The winning picture of a zombie sold for $80. Attendees could chill in a gaming lounge or check out the cosplay, short for costume play, contest. The guest of honor was the modern marvel himself, Stan Lee, creator of Marvel Comics. Lee has created some of the world’s most iconic superheroes, mutants and vigilantes, such as “Wolverine” of X-Men and
Study sanctuaries
of-the-way areas to achieve maximum learning potential. The Student Mega Lab on the fifth When it’s time to hit the books, deciding floor offers Internet access, study stations where can make or break a study session. and an open computer lab. Distractions such as heavy traffic, loud On the seventh floor is the Student music, ringing cell phones and loud talking Learning Assistance Center, where can ruin some of the best study students have access to computareas, said reference Librarian ers and free tutoring. Celita DeArmond. On the fourth floor is an entire A few places around camarea devoted to studying. pus to achieve nirvana include “It’s important that students Moody Learning Center, Chance can go someplace where they garden and Bennett Music Hall. don’t have any distractions so Tucked away behind they can concentrate and Chance Academic Center is Illustration by Ansley Lewis think,” DeArmond said. a garden with trails leadThere is plenty of space ing to an open, lighted seatto crack open a book and delve deep ing area. The Bennett Music Hall at West into a study session without distractions. Dewey and Belknap places has a shaded “We’ve only had the area for less than a lawn with minimal traffic. year,” DeArmond said, noting there are no For students who require a little less other study areas on campus. nature and a lot more technology, Moody Dotted throughout Moody are mulLearning Center is a spot for quiet studying. tiple study spots. Librarians and aides can While the first floor is all hustle and help students find the perfect spot. bustle, multiple floors above feature outsac-ranger@alamo.edu
LIVING
“Captain America” of the Avengers. “I started this convention not because I’m a big comic fan, but I wanted to give people a better understanding of what pop culture or “geek culture” is all about,” said Alfredo “Apple” De La Fuente, CEO and founder of Alamo City Comic Con. He said last year more than 33,000 attended. “This year, we are prepared for 120,000 attendees, and we hope for a
bigger turnout next year.” Fox 29’s “Daytime at Nine” host Kimberly Crawford said it was exciting to interview the master of the Marvel universe and find out where his inspiration came from. “My advice for college students is to go and get into the trenches,” Crawford said. “Take the extra step, get an internship as soon as possible. That’s the only way you will find out how this business works.”
The morning brew
By M. A. Horta
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
The grinding of beans, the hiss of steam and the rich aroma of roasting coffee are all part of the coffee experience. Coffee is a desired stimulant immersed in people’s lives, especially in student lives. Sophomore Brandy Canizales said she drinks five cups of coffee a day. “I want to be awake during class,” she said. According to the National Coffee Association website, coffee sparks an invigorating kick to the central nervous system and decreases drowsiness and fatigue. If you are studying for an exam or working on homework, it can lengthen attention span and quickens reaction time. Coffee also can serve as
R.T. Gonzales a great accompaniment to socializing in between classes. Starbucks manager Lilly Elizardo said caffeine products are in high demand in Loftin Student Center. Elizardo said there are many caffeine choices in the cafeteria: coffee, energy drinks, tea and soft drinks, but java is popular. On average, 150 cups of coffee are sold, mostly between 7
a.m. and 2 p.m., she said. Coffee is also available at the Starbuck’s in Moody Cafe on the second floor of Moody Learning Center. But what to order? Coffee comes in three roasts, light, medium and dark, which are simplified descriptions for how long and at what temperature beans are roasted, creating what is known as a roast profile. For example, a lighter roast is roasted at a low temperature and for a shorter time than a medium or dark roast. Companies guard their roast recipes for many types of coffees, but not so secret is the key to espresso. The National Coffee Association said an espresso depends on a good blend of beans of particular origins.
www.theranger.org/news
Oct. 6, 2014 • 11
YOU’RE NOT AFRAID TO SET BIG GOALS, YOU KNOW THE VALUE OF HARD WORK, AND YOU NEVER BACK DOWN FROM A CHALLENGE. GO FURTHER AT WGU TEXAS. Finish your bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, IT, teaching, or healthcare (including nursing) at WGU Texas. At about $6,000 per year, our tuition is half the cost of other online schools! We are respected, recognized, and accredited. As a Texas community college or technical college graduate or employee, you receive a 5% tuition discount and are eligible for up to $2,000 in scholarships.
Learn more at texas.wgu.edu/finish
Education That Works for You
14-14-11664_TX_TexasCommunityCollegeAd-10x15.125_05Sep2014.indd 1
9/8/14 11:22 AM
12 • Oct. 6, 2014
www.theranger.org/news