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Volume 88 Issue 7 • Oct. 25, 2013

210-486-1773 • Single copies free

Heads up Graduation application due by Thursday Students planning to graduate in December must submit an application by Thursday. To begin the process, log on to ACES and look for the link under the Student tab. Before applying, students must complete a degree audit with an adviser or counselor. The counselor or adviser can provide the required graduation packet. Liberal arts majors should visit the counseling center on the first floor of Moody Learning Center, but students with a specific major should consult a faculty adviser in the major department. The college conducts a commencement ceremony in May only, but fall graduates are welcome to participate. Degrees will be mailed at the end of the semester once verification has been completed. For more information, call 210486-0200.

Retention incentive nets Leslie $60K lump, $15K annually By Carlos Ferrand

cferrand@student.alamo.edu

Chancellor Bruce Leslie is expecting a retention incentive of $60,000 by Oct. 31 for remaining with the Alamo Colleges for the four years of a contract that ended Aug. 31. A retention payment of $15,000 a year is part of Leslie’s contract effective Sept. 1, 2009, through Aug. 31, but was not paid until the terms of the contract were met. In addition, a new contract includes an annual increase of $15,000 as an incentive exclusive of any additional increases. The old contract included an annual base salary of $313,663, but by fall 2012, the base salary had

increased to $343,475. That increase will vary based on current market. included a 7 percent pay raise. In a special board retreat July 13, His current pay under a new Linda Boyer-Owen, associate vice three-year contract effective Sept. chancellor of human resources and 1 through Aug. 31, 2016, includes organizational development, prea base salary of sented salary rec$358,475 through ommendations for See the Dec. 31, 2013. fiscal year 2014. chancellor’s District 9 trustee To keep employcontracts at James Rindfuss said ees average salary the $15,000 increase www.theranger.org within the top three is the retention among eight large incentive payment Texas community rolled into his base salary. Trustees colleges, a 4.8 percent increase was anticipate Leslie’s salary will increase recommended for full-time faculty Jan. 1 by $10,774 to $369,229 as the and an estimated 3.7 percent for fullresult of a districtwide pay raise. time and part-time administrators. Rindfuss said districtwide raises The board of trustees will meet

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Electronic cigarettes enjoy ambiguous classification. By Paula Christine Schuler and Katherine Garcia sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Tobin Lofts grand opening today

Katherine Garcia

Nov. 9 in a special retreat meeting to determine salary increases. No time or location has been determined. Mario Muñiz, director of district public relations, said retention payments are common among executives. “It’s an investment in our administration’s future,” he said. The retention agreement is in place to retain the services of the chancellor so that the district can avoid the time and expense of searching for a new chancellor. The process could cost more than $100,000. District 5 trustee Roberto Zárate said the bonus is a reflection of the board’s satisfaction in Leslie’s performance. “He has done a great job.”

On campus ‘vaping’ may attract smoking ticket

Emily Rodriguez

Today, members of the community will have an opportunity to tour Tobin Lofts, part of which is the first student housing on this campus. An opening ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m. at the pool in the interior of Tobin Lofts property at 1415 N. Main Ave. In addition to college and district officials, Mayor Julian Castro will be attending. Tobin Lofts is the result of a public-private partnership between this college and The NRP Group LLC. The college provided land that was formerly three student parking lots in exchange for student access to a parking garage at Tobin Lofts. After remarks and a ribbon-cutting, guests will be taken on tours of the four-story apartment building. Tobin Lofts features a pool, recreation room, gym and tanning room and has 201 beds available for lease. Occupancy is 191 students at this college and 75 students at other colleges. They live in configurations of one-, two- and four-bedroom apartments. Although students may share an apartment, they sign individual leases. For more information, call 210254-9160. Go online at theranger.org to read more about Tobin Lofts.

/readtheranger

Paramedics and campus police wheel a gurney to an ambulance after a student lost consciousness Tuesday outside the student success center. Emergency phones that connect

directly to district police are located throughout campus to report emergencies or call 210-222-0911. For non-emergencies, call 210-485-0099. Emily Rodriguez

Finally, Moody fourth floor opens By Henry M. Martinez Jr. sac-ranger@alamo.edu

After half a semester, the fourth floor of Moody Learning Center opened Oct. 18. Librarian Eileen Oliver said Tuesday that even though the fourth floor was completed at the beginning of the semester, lack of staff prevented it from being used. Oliver said student employees and library staff are working in shifts to keep the floor running. Still, the fourth floor of the library is open only 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. The fourth floor contains a study hall, cubicle-style desks for students to study individually and five study rooms. The only books on this floor are

in the special rare books collection, named the McAllister Collection. Reference Librarian Celita DeArmond described these books as “irreplaceable” and “one of a kind.” The collection consists of books Walter McAllister Sr., former mayor and founder of this district, collected throughout his life. There is also a small stage that can be used for performances to the left of the entrance. DeArmond said the library hopes to hold poetry readings and similar events in that space. She said these events will likely take place in the afternoon because the fourth floor of the library should remain quiet for most of the day. Computers are available on the fifth floor in the mega lab and the

student learning assistance center on the seventh floor. Before renovation, the fourth floor held paper periodicals, reserve materials and special collections. Now the periodicals can be found online, and reserves are located on the second floor. David Mrizek, vice president of college services, said the renovation started about four months ago and the fourth floor was the last floor to be done. Mrizek said a rough estimate of how much the fourth floor cost to renovate is about $2.25 million. Renovation cost for the building was about $18 million. For more information, call 210486-0554 or visit www.alamo.edu/ sac/library/.

Electronic cigarette users may attract the attention of campus police. That may come as a surprise to vapers, who do not equate vapors with smoke. Human resources sophomore Mary Cole said she was not sure what the e-cigarette policy is, but she heard of a student stopped by police for “vaping” and given a warning. “I know somebody in my class that ‘vapes’ during class — an older woman — but, I don’t know if the professor sees her do it.” Police Deputy Chief Joe Pabon said e-cigarettes emit smoke and this is a smoke-free campus. Emma Mendiola, dean of student affairs, said there is no specific policy on e-cigarettes, a nicotine-delivery system former smokers use. The smoking policy in the student handbook does not specifically mention e-cigarettes in its electronic devices or smoking policies. “Irrespective of what you smoke, it is covered,” student conduct officer Manuel Flores said. Student conduct officer Tracy Floyd said the policy is in the process of being updated, but that takes time. She said the devices are included under the district’s tobacco policy because they can present a disruption in the classroom. Page 30 of the student handbook, only mentions “all electronic communication devices.” The smoking policy on Page 35 states, “All of the Alamo Colleges are designated smoke-free. Smoking and/or using tobacco products is prohibited in all classrooms, laboratories, offices, conference rooms, hallways, parking lots, and all other rooms in all buildings of the Alamo Colleges and on all property that is owned by the Alamo Colleges.” Students may be confused. “I understand their option to say no,” Cole said, noting the lack of butt litter that distinguishes vaping from tobacco smoking. “In reality, it’s not what they think it is. It’s not messy.”


2 • Oct. 25, 2013

People

Math sophomores Bryan Davila-Mendez, left, and Knovie Warren and psychology sophomore Chris Marcet audition in the Fiesta Room of Loftin Monday for the SAC’s Got Talent show 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the same location Nov. 6. Thirteen acts were selected. For coverage of auditions Monday and Tuesday, go online to www.theranger.org. Robbin Cresswell

www.theranger.org/people

Actress, singer and dancer Rita Moreno, whose role in “West Side Story” launched her career, tells stories from her book “Rita Moreno: A Memoir” at “An Evening with Rita Moreno,” Oct. 17 in McAllister. For her stories about growing up Latina, visit www.theranger.org. Kirsten Simpson

Right: Music freshman Tyler McCardle practices his classical Cordoba guitar while he waits Tuesday afternoon for the shuttle to parking at the Playland lot on North Alamo. A shuttle leaves every 15 minutes from West Dewey Place near Fletcher. McCardle carries his guitar with him at all times on campus. “I have been self-taught for four years. Guitar 1 is my first time with a music instructor,” he said. Celeste Christy

Above: Communication design sophomore Rachel Schwelzer works on a style of fall fashion in Richard Arredondo’s Basic Illustration class in the visual arts center Monday. Using fall fashion as inspiration, Schwelzer sketches her own design. Hosanna Diaz

Right: Biology sophomore Marie Heidbrink, left, and English sophomore Joshua Smith spot for Joshua Baylon during a bench press test in weight training class in Candler Monday. Baylon lifted 90 pounds. Weight training keeps students physically and mentally prepared, coach Ronny Culpepper said. Classes are every day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in Room 121 of Candler. Robbin Cresswell

Above: James “Hot Mustard” Velten, radio-televisionbroadcasting graduate and host of “The Sauce,” broadcasts his 1,001st show Wednesday on KSYM 90.1 FM in Longwith. Velten launched “The Sauce,” which airs 7 a.m.-9 a.m. weekdays, May 11, 2009. Regular segments feature Dr. Robert Zeigler, president of the college; the Student Government Association; and a representative of The Ranger. For story, visit www.theranger.org. Daniel Arguelles


News Crime rate is slightly down, but theft is constant www.theranger.org/news

Oct. 25, 2013 • 3

Thefts topped crimes at this college in 2010 and 2011. By Katherine Garcia

kgarcia203@student.alamo.edu

Theft on this campus increased, according to the 2013 Clery Annual Security Report that covers crime statistics 2010-2012 at this college, St. Philip’s, Palo Alto and Northwest Vista colleges. Northeast Lakeview College does not have a separate report because it is not accredited, police Chief Don Adams said. Crimes at Northeast Lakeview are counted in the “Non-Campus” section

for this college. “On Campus” includes this campus and Tobin Lofts while “NonCampus” includes Main and San Pedro avenues and “Public Property” refers to San Pedro Springs Park. There were 144 instances of theftlarceny in 2012 compared to 92 in 2011. Also 29 instances of vandalism, 15 drug violations, 12 burglaries, seven instances of intimidation and six motor vehicle thefts as compared to zero instances of each in 2011. There were six instances of simple assault, triple that in 2011. Off-campus, the incidence of theftlarceny decreased from 21 to 13 in 2012,

along with a decrease in vandalism from 20 to 12 during the same period. Three instances of burglary occurred in 2012 while zero occurred in 2011. Adams said, “Intimidation is to unlawfully place another person in reasonable fear or bodily harm through the use of threatening words and or other conduct but without displaying a weapon or subjecting victim to actual physical attack.” Simple assault is an unlawful physical attack causes minor bodily harm but in which a person doesn’t display a weapon, Adams said. There were 213 instances of crime on

this campus in 2012, and there have been 181 instances of crime on this campus from Jan. 1 to Wednesday Sgt. Marisa Saccio said via email Wednesday. Theft at 90 incidents tops the list this year. In the same time span last year were 187 crimes but only two thefts. Adams agreed there has been a decrease in property crime and an increase in theft. He attributed the decrease in crime this year to several factors, including people being more aware about safeguarding their property and officers’ increased visibility on campus.

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To view report, go to www.alamo. edu/district/ police/ and click on “Clery Annual Report” under “Important Links.”

4 finalists in NLC search

After 266 years, can the Constitution improve?

By Katherine Garcia

A professor elaborates on his call for a new U.S. Constitution.

kgarcia203@student.alamo.edu

Two of four finalists in the Northeast Lakeview president search will be available for questions in open forums at the college Monday and Tuesday. The other two will visit the college the following week. The open forums are 4 p.m.-5 p.m. at the performing arts center at 1201 Kitty Hawk Road. Dr. Rebecca Riley, vice president for instruction at Lone Star CollegeKingwood, will appear Monday. Riley, at Lone Star College since 1993, has worked as an art adjunct, visual arts program coordinator, associate dean of arts and humanities, and interim vice president of student success. She earned a doctorate in higher education leadership at Sam Houston State University. Dr. Ryan Carstens, associate provost of education and community partnerships at Salt Lake Community College, will visit Tuesday. Carstens has served at Oklahoma State University, University of Houston-Victoria, Central Arizona College, Yavapai College in Arizona, El Centro College in Dallas, Rio Salado College in Arizona, Eastern Idaho Technical College, and the Lone Star College System. As associate provost, he established the educational initiatives department to support accelerated learning and e-learning.

Carsten said he was interested in getting back to Texas and “Northeast Lakeview has wonderful potential as a new college.” Dr. Feleccia Moore-Davis, vice president of instruction and student learning at Lone Star College since 2003, will visit the college Nov. 12. She has worked at Fayetteville Technical Community College in North Carolina, Houston Community College Central Campus and the University of Houston. In that post, she has implemented student success courses through the college’s Achieve the Dream initiative. Dr. Craig T. Follins, president of Olive-Harvey Community College in Chicago, will visit Northeast Lakeview Nov. 13. He has worked at colleges in Victoria and Houston before becoming president of Chicago Community College in 2011, where he fulfilled his vision to develop a veterans service center and a wellness center. Follins earned a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to the open forum, the candidates will breakfast with outgoing president, Dr. Eric Reno, and Chancellor Bruce Leslie; then interview with the chancellor; have lunch with the executive team; tour campus and interview with the search committee.

By Cory D. Hill

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

The Constitution’s preamble begins with three words, “We the People,” but it was not till the introduction of the Bill of Rights that any individual rights of the people were mentioned. Sept. 17 marked the 226th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, the oldest written constitution in the world today. No country has kept the same document as long as the United States. Khaligh Political science Professor Asslan Khaligh said Oct. 9 in an interview that he is unsure if keeping a constitution for 226 years is a good idea. Khaligh said the addition of amendments, such as the Bill of Rights, is good but when the “main ingredients” of the articles in the Constitution are read, human rights and personal liberties are lacking. “Even though the document is good, the issue of individual rights or human rights is still up in the air,” he said. “The contradiction is that on one hand, we emphasize anything new in this country, but for some reason we

hold on to the old documents.” Khaligh asks people to look at the Constitution as a whole before the 27 amendments were added. The first 10, the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1789. “If you look at the U.S Constitution, people are still considered three-fifths and so forth,” Khaligh said, referring to the value the founders placed on slaves. Khaligh says that the Canadian Constitution and Swiss Constitution emphasize human beings and individuals, not the government. “When you read the Swiss and Canadian constitutions, it forces the government to listen to the people because what the main ingredients in those constitutions are the declaration of human rights all over. That’s not true in the United States.” Khaligh said the Constitution does not stop debates on basic human right issues such as sexual orientation, gender and race. “We are still talking basics in this country,” he said. “The Constitution does not really give us the answers on how to manage our government properly and at the same time (the) rights of the people are still questioned,” Khaligh said. He referred to the passage of a nondiscrimination ordinance Sept.

23 by the San Antonio City Council as an example of ways the Constitution does not address human rights. He said if the Constitution actually prescribed human rights for everyone, there would be no need for a local ordinance. “This should be the last thing government should be getting involved in. If the text was more clear, it would not be an issue.” Khaligh recommends the nation convene a constitutional convention to produce a new one. “I am not saying the Constitution is bad, but the blueprint is not complete,” he said. “It needs lots of work. Personally, I think we should have a constitutional convention and write a new one.” Talking about the government shutdown, Khaligh said the Constitution does not provide the people with any remedies or alternatives because the founders planned a government “of the people, by the people, for the people.” “(The founders thought) that ultimately the politicians will implement things that people want,” Khaligh said. “This is not the case.” He referred to disagreements between Congress and the president on raising the debt ceiling. “A democracy means inclusion, compromise, negotiation and toleration. None of this is happening in our government and when you look at the Constitution, we’re helpless.”

By Kathya Anguiano sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Students planning to attend a public Texas university, whether it’s straight out of high school or transferring, may face requirements that differ from the requirements for applying to any of the Alamo Colleges. Most universities require an application fee, according to Texas Tech University, Texas A&M University, Texas State University, University of New Mexico and Northwood University representatives at a transfer fair at this college Oct. 16. Application fees range from $20 to $75. Other universities may not charge a fee to apply, such as Northwood University with campuses in Cedar Hill; Midland, Mich.; and West Palm Beach, Fla.

living

study

Check for differing requirements Having sex? Get tested between universities, colleges STDs can make great sex the worst kind.

“Some universities may waive the application fees or have a different admission process depending on the completed credit hours of the applicant, Jessica Foreman, Texas State admissions counselor, said. The fee is $75. Most universities require a high school transcript and SAT/ ACT scores and college transcript if there are less than 29 to 24 credit hours and a minimum of a 2.0 to 2.5 grade-point average. “It is important for students to start planning early for these kind of things because scholarship deadlines do sometimes come sooner than admissions, plus it gives you a perfect way to figure out finances and adjust your budget to figure out how are you going to pay for admissions,” Counselor Rosa Maria Gonzalez said. In regard to the requirements

for universities all over the country, Alamo Colleges’ core process differs in many ways. According to the Alamo Colleges website, after completing the admission application at www.applytexas.org, students are required to log in to their Alamo Colleges Education Services (ACES) account at aces.alamo. edu to view the “Start Here” tab for next registration steps and to complete the required MyMAP modules are completed Official high school transcripts must be submitted along with proof of receiving a bacterial meningitis vaccination or booster dose during the five-year period prior to the enrollment. If required, students must take the TSI (Texas Success Initiative) Assessment Test and tuition payment must be made online.

By Cory D. Hill

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Sex produces health benefits but also possible health risks. Having sex without the use of proper precaution has the potential for undesired side effects, one of them being sexually transmitted diseases. Studies by the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found sex can promote good health. Having sex twice a week or more, which is considered a good sex life, lowers risk of heart attack by half. Studies have provided evidence that a good sex life can improve the immune system, mental health and pain relief and even help with healthier skin. Jesse Ortegon, health program organizer and counselor for the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, advises everyone who is sexually active to be tested at least every three to six months. Those who have sex with multiple

partners are encouraged to get tested more often. “Texas is ranked No. 1 in syphilis cases, San Antonio especially,” Ortegon said. “The best way to protect against STDs is the use of condoms and education.” If students have questions or want an STD screening, they can call or go to Room 104 at the health district at 332 W. Commerce St. All information and discussions are confidential. The clinic takes walk-ins only. “If it is your first time coming in, don’t be discouraged about the amount of people waiting,” Ortegon said, “They are all here for different reasons.” The clinic tests for multiple STDs, starting at $15 for a screening. “If someone does not have the money, we will still see them. We do not deny any type of patient,” Ortegon said. For more information on safe sex tips and where to get tested, students can call 210-207-8330 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday.


News

4 • Oct. 25, 2013

www.theranger.org/news

Jobs for English majors Dr. Adelina S. Silva, vice chancellor of student success, introduces the myAlamoCareer.org, a virtual career center, at the regular board meeting Tuesday. The virtual center is for individuals seeking information such as availability, potential employment or simply knowledge of their chosen career path. Casey Alcala

By Bleah B. Patterson sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Board votes unanimously to continue $105k contract A new virtual career center boasts a link to degree plans for career suggestions. By Carlos Ferrand

cferrand@student.alamo.edu

The Alamo Colleges’ board of trustees voted 7-0 to renew its contract for an estimated $105,000 with investment advisory firm, First Southwest Asset Management Inc. during its regular board meeting Tuesday in Killen Center, 201 W. Sheridan. Trustees Joe Alderte Jr. and Denver McClendon were not at the meeting. First Southwest has provided consultation and evaluation of investment opportunities for the district since 2008. The contract guarantees First Southwest $40,000 with up to $65,000 more if additional services are required for bond proceeds based on a $500 million portfolio. According to district Treasurer Tracy

Bedwell, no major bond proceeds are expected. In fiscal year 2013, the district earned between $100,000 and $200,000 on investment opportunities. In other news, Dr. Adelina S. Silva, vice chancellor of student success, presented a video featuring Chancellor Bruce Leslie and Patrick Newman, executive director for Workforce Solutions Alamo, showcasing myAlamoCareer.org launched Sept. 17. Created by the Alamo Colleges and Workforce Solutions Alamo, myAlamoCareer.org is a virtual career center that allows users to browse a 3-D world and interact with multiple education, career and employment options. Users can log in and visit several virtual floors to access information on career paths, available employment and direct links to the Alamo Colleges. “It will link degree plans that we offer to careers that are available in the com-

Must register bikes By Riley Stephens

rstephens20@alamo.edu

Students registering a bicycle through the Alamo Colleges police will remain registered even after they leave the Alamo Colleges. The registration is information to locate the owner if it is lost or stolen at any of the colleges. Deputy Chief Joe Pabon said when a bicycle is registered, a photo is taken and the serial number is recorded, which helps in an investigation. In calendar year 2012, 57 bicycles were registered across the five Alamo Colleges, and since January, only 10 have been registered. In 2012, 22 bicycles were stolen from the Alamo Colleges and since January, only 14. Chief Don Adams said, “A large number of bicycles are taken to pawn shops, and that is where we sometimes go to track down stolen bikes.” Pabon said, “There were seven bicycles recovered in 2012, and three bicycles have been recovered this year.” He continued, “I encourage everybody who rides a bicycle on this campus to register their bicycle no matter if it cost $10 or $10,000.” Alamo Colleges parking rules and regulations state bicycles are prohibited from pedestrian walkways or sidewalks, except for the police bike patrol. Adams said police will not ticket for riding a bike on campus despite the rule, saying some rules “need to be revised.” Adams said he has noticed the number of students riding bicycles here has increased since spring 2012. “This rule was set up by the board of trustees, and it needs to get a second look at it,” he said. Adams said he wants students to be aware of where bicycles are parked and purchase a lock that cannot be easily broken. “These thieves know what

Read the guest viewpoint ‘Bikes need to be secured, not registered’ at www.theranger.org.

Lock it up

Students should use two locks when parking bikes on campus, a bicycle shop sales associate recommended. “You want two locks, and don’t place them in the same location,” said C.T. Thalkens of Alamo Bike Shop, 1016 N. Flores. “You want to make the bike look like too much trouble to steal,” he said, adding cable locks are too easy to cut. He recommends a U-lock through the back wheel securing it to the chain and another U-lock through the chain and rack. Thalkens said box store locks are weak and easily broken. “Most locks around $30 are not secure. The locks at $60 are great.” He called ABUS the best brand and recommended Kryptonite U-locks and armored cable.

they’re doing and have plenty of practice,” Adams said. “They have all the tools at their disposal.” He said it is important, when using a cable-style lock, to wrap the lock repeatedly around the bike to be sure the bicycle is securely fastened to a pole or bike rack. The registration form is available through a link on alamo.edu.

munity,” Leslie said, “It is a very, very powerful tool.” In other news, the Alamo Colleges’ board of trustees unanimously approved a two-plus-two career pathway affiliate agreement between St. Philip’s College and the University of Houston. The agreement calls for the university to offer upper-division courses on the St. Philip’s campus to allow students working on a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management to stay in the city. The first upper-division courses are expected in spring. According to sachamber.org, the hospitality industry in San Antonio brought in $12 billion in 2011. St. Philip’s offers associate of applied science degrees in hotel management, hospitality management, restaurant management, culinary arts, and baking and pastry arts. For more information on the agreement, call 210-486-2317.

It is often assumed English majors intend to become teachers after graduation. However, a degree in English can be a great segue into many careers, English Chair Mike Burton said. English degrees offer an “incredibly good foundational education” Burton said, one that builds on critical thinking skills and a valuable historical perspective. The reading and writing required for English majors instill a love of learning and understanding more advanced language. Such reading and writing is a link to history that adds context not only to complex books or English major readings but also to situations in a person’s daily life, Burton said. Skills gained in English classes, such as literature, composition and literature criticism, lead to highly successful law students, journalism students, future political leaders and business leaders, Burton said. Editor, copywriter, public relations, marketing, anthropology and linguistics researcher are all among career options for English

majors, English Professor Jane Focht-Hansen said. Focht-Hansen even suggests that philosophy and English degrees are a great pair. Many English undergraduates go into philosophy. Burton said, “Liberal arts degrees like English show that you are dedicated and persistent. Employers want thinkers.” Burton said students who leave a junior college with an Associate of Arts in English are liable to have great success finding jobs with the experience an English degree provides. English degrees are “ideal for changing landscapes,” Burton said. “People who go into limited technological programs hit a dead end.” Employers in every field are impressed by students’ ability to comprehend language and grammar,” FochtHansen said. English majors should not panic when they hear that predictable question “So you’re going to be a teacher?” Instead students should research options before heading to an adviser to change majors. An English degree can be a great key for unlocking a career in multiple fields.


News

www.theranger.org/news

STEM majors do original research MESA Center tutors are available to help students create proposals for summer 2014. By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Five groups presented Summer Undergraduate Research projects Sept. 17 at the Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement, or MESA, Center. The Summer Undergraduate Research Program at this college is unique because it gives students the opportunity to do original research. “Most of the time original research isn’t being done until you are in graduate school,” said Analisa Garza, coordinator for the MESA Center. Engineering Coordinator Dan G. Dimitriu said in other community college research programs, students typically go to four-year institutions and observe graduate students instead of conducting their own research. “They might wash dishes or clean lab equipment, but it’s not research,” Dimitriu said. Dimitriu believes it is important for students to be involved in their own projects from start to finish so he started the Undergraduate Research Program at this college in 2010. The program got its funding from a NASA Curriculum Improvement Partnership Award for Integration of Research, or CIPAIR, grant. This college was awarded with the University of Texas San Antonio. Dimitriu put together a group of advisers with various STEM degrees to assist students.

The advisers help students but cannot get involved in the research. The students come up with their own projects, then research, develop and test the projects over a 10-week period. Students are compensated $7.33 per hour, with a maximum of $1,100. They are expected to work on their projects for 10–15 hours per week and are paid for 150 hours of work upon completion and submission of their final report. Students do not receive college credit for their work; Garza would like to see that change. One group of students created an electrical subsystem for a solar panel electrical cart. The goal of the project was to research, design, test and assemble all the electrical components required for a solar-powered vehicle to function. A future undergraduate research team will design the chassis for the solar-powered electrical cart that will use their electrical components. The team who worked on this project consisted of mechanical engineering sophomores Juan De Luna and Andres Favela and civil engineering sophomores Celeste Trujillo and Esteban Riojas. The students worked with a $1,000 budget and had to find their own vendors. Riojas recommends students start finding an approved vendor early. “You want to get an approved

vendor right away so you can right away start the project,” Riojas said. The second group focused on geological sciences. Geology sophomores Robert Salinas and William Ingraham worked on this project with Reuben Uribe, a junior at Colorado School of Mines. The goal of their research was to study the correlation between topsoil and vegetation to determine the parent rock because the current tools being used to do so are expensive and intrusive. They looked for outcrops to study at parks, roadsides and a friend’s property. Garza said the team is looking into publishing their research in an undergraduate publication. The third group studied atmospheric entry with one-axis control at NASA. The goal is to further develop an emergency protocol for reentry issues when returning from space missions. The team consisted of Erica Zeelenberg, engineering and mathematics sophomore, engineering sophomores Jaysiel Garcia, Marisol Ordaz, Jacob Prado and Alexander Rivera. A second NASA team also presented Sept. 17. Their team studied water bending in microgravity. The objective is to investigate what happens when a stream of water is intersected by sound or sine waves in microgravity. The team members were: mathematics sophomore Thaddeus Brickley and engineering sophomores Darcy Stephens,

Emma Garcia, Vernon Lymus and Sarah Ihle. Former biology student Emily Gallios also presented on her team’s behalf since she was unable to present last summer. Her team studied a recirculated water-cooled photovoltaic solar module. Student researchers are encouraged to look at previous research and continue where others left off or come up with their own idea. Garza would love to see students in STEM disciplines work together. “Maybe a biologist with a physicist and an engineer. They could do really cool environmental type research,” Garza said. All STEM opportunities are announced on the MESA OrgSync page, which currently has 274 members. Garza recommends students interested in the Summer Undergraduate Research Project start early. The summer projects are announced in the spring. If students know they will be here in the spring, she suggests they start thinking of an idea, and get three to four students together so in the spring it will be easier to create a proposal. The students can ask any of the tutors at the MESA Center for help in filling out the proposals. Proposal guidelines can be found at http://www.alamo.edu/ sac/MESA/ under the student resources tab. This is free and open to STEM students. For more information, call Garza at 210-486-0085.

Oct. 25, 2013 • 5

Student teams to ride NASA’s ‘vomit comet’ By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Two research teams from this college’s Summer Undergraduate Research Program were accepted to the NASA Microgravity Project at the same time, Dr. Dan G. Dimitriu, engineering coordinator, said. The teams are scheduled to go to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to test their projects in simulated microgravity Nov. 8-15. They were scheduled to go Nov. 1-9, but the partial government shutdown Oct. 1-17 delayed the projects. NASA is still working with the contractor who supplies the planes so the flight dates are not yet solidified, Ashle Harris, public affairs specialist at NASA Johnson Space Center, said. The groups are to report to Ellington Field in Houston Nov. 8, Jerry O’Connor, physics, engineering and architecture chair, said. O’Connor and Dimitriu, who each oversee a team, will accompany the students and be alternate fliers, O’Connor said. Dimitriu’s team’s craft will follow a parabolic arc over the Gulf of Mexico to achieve near weightlessness. The students will experience 2g’s, or twice their body weight as they fly. Half of the team will fly while the other half is ground support and then they will switch, Dimitriu said. The students need one day of training at NASA before riding the “vomit comet,” Dimitriu said. The two groups presented their projects, along with three other groups Sept. 17 in the Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement Center. Dimitriu’s group researched atmospheric entry with one-axis control. The group consisted of Erica Zeelenberg, engineering and mathematics sophomore and engineering sophomores Jaysiel Garcia, Marisol Ordaz, Jacob Prado and Alexander Rivera. The second group researched water bending, vibration-induced sine waves in a fluid system. The team consisted of mathematics sophomore Thaddeus Brickley, and engineering sophomores Darcy Stephens, Emma Garcia, Vernon Lymus, and Sarah Ihle. Dimitriu declined to give The Ranger information on the status of the students’ progress. For more information, call 210-486-0085.

Office helps online students with technical issues By Christopher A. Hernandez sac-ranger@alamo.edu

The office of technology services offers web services and assistance for students taking courses online. Most students enrolled in online classes are working or have other responsibilities, Usha Venkat, director of information technology, said. “Taking online classes provides an atmosphere where the student can learn on their own time,” she said. Venkat said sharing emails with instructors and downloading assignments over the web means some files may become corrupted or

infect the main server. She said the help desk staff can assist in She said services like a 24-hour help desk, most technology-related issues, such as basic virus and spyware removal, wireless network computing problems, software and hardware setups and equipment loans issues, and password recovery. help students with some of the “When attending classes Check ACES e-mail online, having the necessary technical difficulties of taking link to an IT system equipment can be expensive,” online classes. performance The help desk is in Room she said, adding equipment 710 of Moody Learning Center. survey due Nov. 15. loans are available for actively Hours of operation on site are enrolled students at the col8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday- Friday. lege, and faculty and staff. The service center’s help desk serves students Venkat said the service center requires two and is the most used resource among informa- forms of valid photo identification. Acceptable tion technology services, Venkat said. forms of identification include a current stu-

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dent ID, driver’s license, state or military ID. Employees are required to bring a district ID. Venkat said the service center only allows equipment to be loaned for a maximum of two weeks, and all technology equipment loans are on a first-come, first-served basis. Overnight reservations can be made 8 a.m.5 p.m. in Room 710 of Moody Learning Center. The office of technology services is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday- Friday. For assistance, call the help desk at 210486-0777. For more information about OTS, call 210486-0030.


6 • www.theranger.org/premiere

It’s a spooky tradition By Carlos Ferrand

cferrand@student.alamo.edu

Halloween is one night of the year it is socially acceptable to go door to door asking for handouts. Not only is it perfectly acceptable to ask strangers for candy, people are encouraged to dress like ghouls, ghosts or goblins while doing it. Halloween did not start off as the commercial family-friendly night it is today. Its beginnings are connected to the change of seasons and interactions between the living and the dead. According to the Library of Congress website at loc.gov, the origins of Halloween date back some 2,000 years with an ancient Celtic festival celebrating the turn of seasons known as Samhain. The Celts believed Nov. 1 marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter, and affiliated death with this time of year because at the end of the harvest, the fields were stripped bare, the weather grew cold and days grew shorter. According to the History Channel’s history. com, Celts believed the boundary between the living and the dead blurred Oct. 31, allowing the dead to return to this plane. Out of fear of returning spirits, people would leave food and wine outside the front doors to satisfy the spirits and keep them from entering. If they had to leave their homes, people wore masks to confuse spirits into believing that they, too, were spirits of the dead returned to Earth. Today, costumes continue to play a major role in Halloween, but instead of tricking spirits, costumes are used to win contests or creep people out. Americans spend $2.5 billion on costumes and

decorations each year, making Halloween the second most commercial holiday after Christmas. That is no accident because according to loc. gov, the Samhain festival was the largest Celtic holiday of the year. As Christianity spread, the church sought to eliminate festivals celebrating pagan observations. On Samhain, the Celts built large bonfires, lighting the way for spirits in their journey to the afterlife, which they believed would keep the living safe. To end the pagan practice, Pope Gregory III moved the Christian feast honoring martyrs, known as All Hallows, or All Saints, from May 13 to Nov. 1. Oct. 31 became All Hallows Eve and, eventually, morphed into Halloween. According to history.com, trick-or-treating may date back to All Souls Day in England. Later, the Catholic Church established All Soul’s Day to honor the dead on Nov. 2, the day after Samhain. During All Souls Day, the poor went door to door promising to pray for dead family members in exchange for pastries called “soul cakes.” Vandalism and pranks could be avoided, it was believed, if households offered treats to children. The folklore of Halloween and Samhain were not popular in the strict Protestant colonies of early America. In 1846, the traditions of Samhain and Halloween set roots in America with the help of a wave of Irish immigrants fleeing a potato famine. By the late 1800s, Halloween started to transform from a night of spirits and ghosts into a neighborhood get-together. Halloween was celebrated by people of all ages, but according to history.com, community

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leaders and newspapers encouraged people to remove anything “frightening” and “g r o t e s q u e” from their celebrations. As a result, many of the superstitions and religious connections have been discarded from the holiday. By the 1950s, Halloween was widely celebrated across the United States, and the focus shifted to children, and the popularity of trick-or-treating returned. Today, trick-or-treating is a cornerstone of Halloween in this country. According to history.com, 72 percent of adult Americans hand out candy at Halloween, spending $3.5 billion across the country on sweet treats. In total, Americans spend about $6 billion on Halloween. The traditions of Samhain have traveled and evolved over time to become the familyfriendly holiday Halloween is today. So when the doorbell rings, and a group of small monsters chanting “trick-or-treat” casts a shadow on your doorway, you should probably have some treats for them because you never know who is under those masks.

Office supervisor Deborah Harrison and student life secretary Mary Schlabig scramble to win musical chairs Monday at the staff Halloween costume party. Ana Cano

‘Warhammer’ costume wins staff contest By Adriana Ruiz

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Pirates, hippies and witches showed up Monday at Koehler Cultural Center for the Staff Council Halloween costume party, an event for all staff members to enjoy food, games and fun. The historic mansion was decorated inside and out by Staff Council members. The gates leading to the entrance were covered in spiderwebs, plastic human limbs were scattered on the grounds, and guests were greeted at the door by fog produced with dry ice. Orange and purple lights created a spooky atmosphere and spiderwebs covered the grand piano and fireplace. Guests helped themselves to a Halloweenthemed food buffet of mini pizzas, chips and dip, hot wings and mini sliders, along with water and punch. Ten guests participated in a costume con-

Staff Council members Ruben Lopez and Isabel Castaneda hang an electric spider. Marie Sullins test judged by enrollment specialist Henry Castillo and Counselor Roland Garza. The grand prize winner of a Vivitar digital camera was OTS technician Nestor Rivera, who showed up dressed as Adeptus Mechanicus, a character from the game “Warhammer 40,000.” Rivera’s costume made heads turn as he

walked into the dining room. He stood about 6 foot 8 inches wearing platform boots covered by a long burgundy cloak. He wore a gas mask that lit up with the touch of a button and he held an ax. “I wanted to stand out in the crowd,” Rivera said. He built the costume himself, excluding the cloak, which cost between $200-$250. He said he travels to anime conventions in Texas to compete in costume contests. Second place winner was Kim-Briana Lorine, Student Government Association treasurer and writing center tutor, who was dressed as a werewolf and won a mini flashlight. Third place winner was Juan Zamora, computer support technician who dressed as a pirate and won a mouse pad. About 35 guests trickled in, but the night was filled with laughs and staff members grouped together to take pictures on the front steps of Koehler.

Staff members stayed after the party to take down decorations, put food away and clean up. Staff Council President Helen Torres said the main goal of the event was to create friendships and fellowship in a fun environment. “We all respected the area and we all stayed and helped clean and I think that is fellowship,” said Torres.


miere

Oct. 25, 2013 • 7

Be safe this Halloween while trick-or-treating By Riley Stephens

rstephens20@student.alamo.edu

Halloween is the one night of the year that parents help their children transform into monsters then go off into the night in search of treats. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 41.1 million potential trick-or-treaters in 2012 were children ages 5 to 14. Deputy Chief Joe Pabon of the district police department said most neighborhoods have trickor-treating 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Sometimes parents like to join their children in trick-or treating to make it a family event. “Every year, we’re themed as a family. The first year we were animals. I was a bunny. My husband was a mouse and my son was a puppy,” nursing sophomore Kalena Gutierrez said. This year, they will dress up as characters from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. “I will dress up as April O’Neil. My son is trying to decide between Michelangelo who is cool,

and Donatello who is smart,” Gutierrez said. Pabon said bright colored-costumes are recommended because they can easily be seen from a distance. Gutierrez said she makes the costumes by hand and most of the costumes are based on television reruns. Pabon said the No. 1 thing is “never let your kids go out trick-or-treating by themselves.” Education sophomore Eva Alvarado said she has two daughters ages 15 and 20 who still trickor-treat. “We all dress up and we all go trick-or-treating door to door. I’ve always enjoyed it since I was little,” Alvarado said. Pabon said when going out trick-or-treating, carry a flashlight and go only to houses that are lit. Pabon said if parents are new to their neighborhood and looking for safe places to trick-or-treat, they should get in touch with their local churches, fire departments or police departments to see where they can go. Business management freshman Natalie Luna said her son is going to celebrate his first Halloween with his cousins. “My favorite Halloween memory was going house to house trick-or-treating with my brother and sister,” Luna said. Pabon said parents should check all the candy before it gets eaten and pay close attention to any homemade candy. “If it is not made by someone you know, then I would throw it away,” Pabon said. Pabon’s advice for young adults and college age kids is to have a designated driver and don’t leave your drinks unattended.

Worst Halloween treat ever received Most common of 50 students surveyed

10. Tootsie Rolls 9. carrots 8. Milk Duds 7. Double Bubble 6. pretzels 5. pencils 4. raisins 3. candy corn 2. dental supplies 1. apples

Sound Off What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child and why? “I personally don’t understand Halloween. I have lived in the United States for two years and I don’t know if Halloween is traditional or religious.” Banan Ali, chemistry sophomore “All my life, I loved the theme that Tim Burton provides for his movies. So one year I dressed up as the ‘Corpse Bride.’ I rolled in the mud to get the right color.” Kyla Barcenas, criminal law sophomore “For Halloween, I dressed up in a handmade Michael Jackson costume. I love his music to this day and the values they represent.” Dewawne Griggs II, computer information systems sophomore “The one costume that influenced me the most was dressing up as an astronaut. I always had an interest in astrophysics, and I saw myself working at NASA in the future.” Sergio Loero, chemistry and physics sophomore “I dressed up as “Scream” without the mask. I was on roller skates so I created the illusion of myself floating.” Corin Mutschler, biology sophomore “As a kid, I had a passion for fashion. So I dressed up as a 1930s gangster. I love the suit, tie and the shoes.” Christopher Perez, criminal justice freshmen “The one costume that I remember the most is being a pregnant nun. I wanted people to notice the irony.” Daniel Pekarsky, architecture sophomore “I would dress up as Sailor Moon because as a child I watched every episode.” Alexis Rocha, environmental architecture and engineering sophomore “As a child, I loved dressing up as a dinosaur. I collected toys, movies and anything that seems prehistoric.” Nickalus Weatherington, psychology freshmen

“As a child, I always watched Aladdin. But instead of dressing up like a princess I preferred to dress as a genie. I just fell in love with the magic.” Rebecca Ytuarte, nursing sophomore Illustrations by Alexandra Nelipa


SAConnected

8 • Oct. 25, 2013

www.theranger.org/calendar

Roaring ’20s ball to collect donations for charity By T. L. Hupfer

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Don’t put that flapper dress or pinstripe suit away after Halloween. The Student Government Association is teaming up with the nonprofit organization Our Father’s Kingdom Services to host a Roaring 20s themed charity ball. The ball is at 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Nov. 1 at Koehler Cultural Center. This is SGA’S first charity ball, and the organization hopes to make it an annual event, SGA President Andrew Hubbard said. The ball will consist of dancing and music from a DJ who will play a mixture of jazz and current popular hits. “A lot of ‘Great Gatsby,’” said Maura Callahan, SGA parliamentarian and communications sophomore. The 1920s were a time of great economic growth in the United States, Canada, France and the United Kingdom. The automobile, movie, radio and chemical industries were booming as well as Hollywood, New York City, Chicago, Paris and London. Students are encouraged to wear Roaring ‘20s costumes. Loose knee-length dresses and short bobbed

hair with a flapper headdress were the look for Loving Hearts, Single Parents supports singlewomen while men dressed in striped suits and top parent households by teaching them skills to bethats and had a bit of mystery behind their step. ter function. Callahan said SGA chose Our Father’s Kingdom Visiting Hearts Outreach program helps people Services because it is a well-roundwith special needs and physical dised organization that helps everyabilities. They also help victims of Go online one no matter the circumstance domestic violence and assist veterfor more much like this college welcomes ans. information on everyone. SGA is selling tickets in advance, Monday’s SGA Proceeds will be donated to the which are available at the SGA office meeting. organization, which helps anyone in Room 260B of Loftin Student in need of food, clothing, hygiene Center. products and support. Their goal Only 200 tickets are available. is to prevent socioeconomic crises caused by the Any tickets remaining from advance tickets sales psychological barriers of extreme poverty. will be available at the door. They distribute donations to individuals and Students of this college can get a ticket by families at the Our Father’s Kingdom Services donating three items. Other students have a $5 Storehouse at 3201 Cherry Ridge St. The organiza- admission fee along with a minimum of three tion has three programs: Helping Emergencies, donated items. Loving People; Loving Hearts, Single Parents; and Acceptable items include canned goods, gently Visiting Hearts Outreach. used bed linens and clothes, and hygiene products. Helping Emergencies, Loving People offers servicFor more information, call Callahan, SGA pares to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week. liamentarian, at 210-486-0133.

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Student Activity Fee Committee approves two outings By Katherine Garcia kgarcia203@alamo.edu

must have a 2.0 GPA or higher and be registered in at least six semester hours at this college. Rodriguez sent in the rosters Oct. 8, and the committee approved the trips via an email vote. Emma Mendiola, dean of student services, said voting via proxy, or email in this case, was acceptable because committee members still weighed in. Nine women and 10 men from each team are attending both games. Rodriguez, and computer science Professor Steve Ochoa are the advisers for the games.

The men’s and women’s basketball teams of this college were cut because of lack of funding in spring 2011, so the teams had to apply as a club. Richard Farias, director of student life, who led the meeting in Mendiola’s absence, discussed a possible $121,319 project to divide the craft room into three smaller sections: desks for clubs, a conference room and a meeting area. Farias will present a proposal for the next meeting with a finalized budget, Farias said. Call student life at 210-486-0125.

Today Weekend Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Requests for funding by the Student Activity Fee Committee must be received six weeks before an event and two weeks before a monthly meeting. The next meeting to decide on proposals is 3 p.m. Nov. 7 in the employee lounge of Loftin Student Center. Student organizations and clubs can apply online at https://orgsync. com/25432/files/155992/show. In the Oct. 3 meeting, the Student Activity Fee Committee discussed

two requests totaling $2,252.21 for men’s and women’s basketball teams. The teams applied for two trips to play out-of-town games. They requested $1,178.87 for a shared charter bus to travel to Uvalde for an Oct. 16 game, and $1,073.34 for a shared charter bus for the Oct. 30 game in Victoria. The events were tabled at the meeting because a list of team rosters or advisers was not provided, said Jacob-Aiden Martinez, coordinator of student success. Students who qualify for funding

SAC Transfer: Texas A&M University-San Antonio advising 9 a.m.4 p.m. in transfer center in Room 107 of Moody. Continues Tuesday. Call 210-486-0864. SAC Event: Olympicstyle boxing by student life 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in mall. Call 210-4860125.

SAC Event: Mass and Meal sponsored by Catholic Student Association 12:15 p.m. at 312 W. Courtland. Continues Fridays. Call 210-736-9306. SAC Event: Pingpong tournament 2 p.m.4 p.m. in game room of Loftin. Continues Fridays. Call 210-4860131. Trinity Event: “The Mini” student art exhibition 5 p.m.-7 p.m. in Room 110, Art Gallery of Dicke-Smith building. Continues through Nov. 1. 210-999-8406.

SAC Deadline: Last chance to submit news tips to The Ranger for last two fall publications. Continues through Nov. 8. Email sac-ranger@alamo.edu or call 210-486-1776.

Saturday

SAC Event: Heart Walk 5K sponsored by student life and the Wellness Team 8:30 a.m. Call 210-4860158.

Exhibit: Briscoe Western Art Museum Grand Opening 11 p.m.-4 p.m. at 210 W. Market. Continues Sunday. Visit briscoemuseum.org. Event: Third annual Dance with the Dead sponsored by Institute of Texan Cultures, 8:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. at 801 E. César E. Chávez. Come dressed as your favorite deceased Texan. Ages 21 and older. Tickets are $20 at the door, $16.90 in advance. Call 210458-2300. Sunday

Event: Boxer Boogie 3K/5K Run by Alamo Boxer Rescue 8:30 a.m. at McAllister Park. Adult registration is $30 in advance, $35 the day of. Child registration is $15 in advance, $20 the day of. Visit www. boxerboogierun.com.

SAC Transfer: Texas A&M University-San Antonio recruiting 9 a.m.-noon on first floor of Chance. Continues Thursday. Call 210486-0864.

SAC Transfer: Texas State University advising 2 p.m.-4 p.m. in transfer center in Room 107 of Moody. Continues Wednesday and Friday. Call 210-486-0864.

SAC Event: Blood drive sponsored by student life 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in the mall. Continues Tuesday and Thursday. Call 210-486-0128.

SAC Meeting: Cheshyre Cheese Club noon in writing center in Room 203 in Gonzales. Continues Tuesdays. Call 210-486-0668.

SAC Event: Belly dancing lessons sponsored by student life 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0128.

SAC Lecture: Hot Potato presentation “No Peace in the Middle East” by Professor Asslan Khaligh 12:15 p.m. in Methodist Student Center. Continues Tuesdays. Visit www.saumcm. org.

SAC Transfer: University of Incarnate Word transfer advising 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. on first floor of Chance. Continues Tuesday. Call 210-486-0864.

SAC Meeting: CRU 1:45 p.m. in Room 004 of Chance. Continues Tuesdays. Call 210486-1233.

Trinity Lecture: Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, journalists who uncovered the Watergate scandal, on “Inside the White House: From Nixon to Obama” 7:30 p.m. in Laurie Auditorium. Tickets are free, max two per person, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday in auditorium. Call 210-999-8406.

Reminder: Employee Development Day. No classes before 5 p.m. Volunteer: Weed Wednesday at Hardberger Park 8:30 a.m.10:30 a.m. Help pull weeds and plant native plants. Continues Wednesdays. Call 210-2013292 or email wendy. leonard@sanantonio.gov.

Event: “Zoo Boo” trick-or-treating 6 p.m.9 p.m. at San Antonio Zoo for families with children age 12 and younger. $6 before Oct. 30, $7 Oct. 30-31. Continues Thursday. Call 210-734-7184.

SAC Deadline: Submit photos of loved ones in uniform to be posted in Loftin display windows in observation of Veterans Day. Email chernandez@alamo. edu. SAC Event: Pumpkin Carving Contest 1 p.m.-2 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.

Reminder: Día De Los Muertos. Continues through Saturday.

SAC Deadline: Submit a nomination for Student of the Month for November by 5 p.m. in Room 309 of Fletcher. Visit www. alamo.edu/mainwide. aspx?id=17204.

SAC Event: Halloween costume contest 1 p.m.-2 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.

Event: Halloween at the McNay 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m., 6000 N. New Braunfels. Trickor-treating, tour of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” props and “Frankenweenie” showing. Visit www. mcnayart. org.

Illustrations by Alexandra Nelipa

Día De Los Muertos Nov. 1 Event: Día De Los Muertos kickoff with exhibits by local artists and Dead Art Walk 3 p.m.-9 p.m. at La Villita, 418 Villita. Exhibit continues Saturday. Visit www.muertosfest.com. Exhibit: Community Altares Exhibit by San Antonio Department of Culture at Día De Los Muertos celebration 6 p.m.-10 p.m. at Rinconcito De Esperanza, 816 S. Colorado. Continues through Nov. 8. Call 210-228-0201. Concert: Texas Tornados, Neon Indian, T-Bird and The Breaks and Blackbird Sing 6 p.m.-11 p.m. at the Arneson River Theater. Tickets $18. Visit www.muertosfest.com. Nov. 2 Event: Día De Los Muertos Celebration noon-6 p.m. at Market Square, 514 W. Commerce. Call 210-207-8605. Concert: La Santa Cecillia, Los Texmaniacs, Bombasta and more 1 p.m.-11 p.m. at Arneson River Theater. Tickets $13. Visit www.muertosfest.com. SAC Event: Día De Los Muertos night run sponsored by the office of student life 5 p.m.-7 p.m. in McAllister Park Pavillion 2. $5. Email sac-studentlife@alamo.edu.

Upcoming Nov. 3 Reminder: End of daylight saving time. Set clocks back one hour. Event: Run with a Mission 5K benefiting Hope for the Future Catholic schools scholarship program 7:30 a.m. Prices vary. Call 210-734-1907 or email julie.seguin@archsa.org. Register at www.hopeforfuture.org. Nov. 5 Event: “Teacher Tuesdays: Teaching and Learning Inquiry” 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at Institute of Texan Cultures, 801 E. César E. Chávez. Free. Open to all K-12 educators to earn 2 CPE credits. Call 210-458-2300 or visit www.texancultures.com/events/. Nov. 10 Event: UTSA doctoral candidate Mario Longoria on “The 201st Fighter Squadron: Mexico Joins the Fight in World War II” 2 p.m.-4 p.m. at Institute of Texan Cultures, 801 E. César E. Chávez. Call 210-458-2300. Nov. 11 SAC Event: Veterans Day Celebration 8:30 a.m. in faculty and staff lounge in Loftin, followed by mini parade at 11 a.m. in mall. Wear red, white and blue. Call 210-4860128 or email chernandez@alamo.edu.

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For coverage in SAConnected, call 210-486-1773 or e-mail sac-ranger@alamo.edu two weeks in advance.


www.theranger.org/editorial

Oct. 25, 2013 • 9

.org

the

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Editorial

Editor Carlos Ferrand Managing Editor Emily Rodriguez News Editor Katherine Garcia Pulse Editor Michael Peters Opinion Editor Paula Christine Schuler Calendar Editor Katrina Dela Cruz Staff Writers Kathya Anguiano, M.J. Callahan, Priscilla Galarza, Christopher A. Hernandez, Cory D. Hill, T. L. Hupfer, Neven Jones, Jahna Lacey, Henry M. Martinez Jr., Bleah B. Patterson, Cassandra M. Rodriguez, Justin Rodriguez, Lorena R. Rivera, Adriana Ruiz, Diana M. Sanchez Photo Editor Monica Lamadrid Photographers Casey Alcala, Daniel Arguelles, Raquel Estrada Photo Team Ana Victoria Cano, Daniel Carde, Celeste Christy, Robbin Cresswell, Hosanna Diaz, Marina Garcia, Osita Omesiete, Kirsten Simpson, Marie Sullins Illustrator Alexandra Nelipa Production Manager Mandy Derfler Multimedia Editor Riley Stephens Advertising Manager Patricia McGlamory Circulation Manager Albert Zuniga Alexandra Nelipa

©2013 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 Fridays 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.

MetaMedia

Making a ‘free’ press When it comes to smart business, advertising is a two-way street. Local and national businesses benefit by marketing their products and services and spreading their messages to consumers. In turn, consumers can learn about products or services through advertisements. According to Missouri Press News, consumers look to newspaper advertising as the most relied on source for advertising. The “newspaper has staying power” with a weekly newspaper reader who keeps it around for just over four days. The paper is read by more than one person in a household. With advertising, businesses can reach target audiences and increase sales and product awareness. Publication expenses can be costly. Overhead includes staff wages, office space, equipment, utilities and cost of printing and distribution. To offset some — or all — of

these expenses, publications rely on advertising revenue. “That’s why the reading public pays so little for its newspaper,” states an article from the Parliament of Canada, “The Role of Advertising in Newspapers.” More than 85 percent of newspaper advertising is bought by local advertisers, according to Professional Advertising, and newspapers get the largest share of advertising revenue in the country. Businesses consider the newspaper’s circulation, demographics, frequency of publication and geographic coverage when determining where to place ads. Advertisers choose a newspaper that reaches the largest target audience possible at the lowest cost possible. Advertising revenue for The Ranger is similarly used to help pay for printing expenses and equipment. When a publication can cover expenses through advertising, it can best serve its reading public — in this case, the Alamo Colleges.

Refreshers offer savings: money, time, frustration Registration opened Monday for refresher courses to prepare for new integrated reading and writing developmental courses for English beginning in the spring semester. The college is offering two levels of the integrated courses: INRW 0420, for students who test at ninth through 12th grades and INRW 0305, for students who test at eighth grade and below. The scores earned on the Texas Success Initiative assessment test determine placement level in developmental classes. Students can register for a refresher course immediately after completing the test. The refresher is free, does not require a textbook, and is 16 hours for students who test at eighth grade and below and eight hours for those who test at ninth through 12th grade-level. Students who test below college level are under an additional requirement of enrolling in a refresher course a full semester before they plan to enroll in either of the develop-

mental courses. Emails will be sent to students as a reminder of refresher course dates and times. Visit the English, reading and education department in Room 123 of Gonzales Hall. As of Oct. 21, only one student had taken advantage of the opportunity to enroll in the first section at this college, which was to have begun Monday. Only five students registered across the district. Clearly, the new offering is in need of some promotion. One hundred students were expected in the first week, but the class had to be canceled Monday because of low enrollment. The next course will open Nov. 4 so there is little reason to postpone signing up. Waiting until the last moment can prevent registration for spring English courses. Based on enrollment in English and reading developmental courses, that means quite a few of us.

Is it really any different? When people come onto this campus, they are greeted by signs that read, “San Antonio College is a smoke-free campus.” A smoke-free campus is intended to protect the health of students, employees and visitors. But don’t be surprised if you see puffs of smoke wafting through the air around campus. Those puffs are not smoke exhaled by users of traditional tobacco cigarettes but a mist of vapors created by electronic cigarettes. Because e-cigarettes are promoted as a healthier alternative to smoking tobacco, it is becoming more common to see “vapers” puffing outdoors and, worse, inside buildings. According to the Food and Drug Administration at fda.gov, “Electronic cigarettes are not emission-free” and “contain volatile organic substances, including propylene glycol, flavors and nicotine.” Just because “vaping,” a term coined by e-cigarette users to describe inhaling vapors, is someone’s alternative to smoking tobacco doesn’t mean that it needs to be everyone

else’s alternative to secondhand smoke. Little is known about the side effects of the still relatively new e-cigarettes. The emission may be a mist, but it should be treated like smoke and follow the same rules. When they were still tobacco smokers, “vapers” could not use tobacco products indoors so why would anyone think “vaping” should be allowed? Beyond the dangers of secondhand smoke, it is simply not cool to make others share your habit. Some of the flavors for e-cigarettes create strong smells once vaporized. Just because you like the taste or smell of French toast doesn’t mean everyone else does, and it certainly doesn’t make it OK to fill a room with the odor because you need a hit of nicotine. Easing off a nicotine habit is why most vapers picked up the habit in the first place, so use a little self-control and courteously wait until you are clear of others for your next puff. What is OK in your home is often not OK in public. This is a college, not a hookah bar.

Correction In “NVC game ‘Time Glitch’ wins third in Captivate competition” in the Oct. 11 issue, 3-D animation sophomore Anthony Ortiz’s name was missing from the Northwest Vista College game creation team.


News

10 • Oct. 25, 2013

www.theranger.org/news

Methodist director chooses ministry, teaching over pharmacy career The Rev. Johnny Silva found his passion through campus ministry. By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO The University of Texas at San Antonio is your first choice for a top tier education. UTSA provides you a world of ideas, diversity and culture with more than 140 undergraduate and graduate degree options.

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SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINES Phi Theta Kappa

Nov. 1 2013 JAA Scholarship

Nov. 25, 2013

The director of the United Methodist Student Movement, the Rev. Johnny Silva, almost became a pharmacist. Silva was accepted to three pharmacy schools in Texas and was all set to go until he found his passion in campus ministry. He looked at pharmacy school because it was something his parents approved of. His sister dated a pharmacist and suggested the career to Silva. Because he liked science, he decided to pursue it. Silva was introduced to campus ministry during his last year at the University of Texas at San Antonio where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology May 2004. At UTSA, Silva joined a church youth group for college students. Silva There he met a great group of friends and his future wife. With the youth group, Silva toured eight of 13 United Methodist seminaries in the U.S. He also sat in on classes and talked with students. Through this experience, he started to visualize a future in seminary. It became clear that a career as a pharmacist was not for him, he said. Silva said he could go to pharmacy school and finish or he could study theology and enjoy himself as he studied. In 2004, Silva took on a leadership role at UTSA where he was co-program director of the United Methodist Student Movement at the main campus. The only office space for United Methodist Student Movement is at this college even though they serve several campuses. He also started a new ministry at the downtown campus of UTSA. Silva graduated from the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas in 2009 with a master’s in divinity. While he was in seminary, he served as youth director of First United Methodist Church of Garland, First United Methodist Church of Fort Worth, and Emmanuel

Presbyterian Church in Bedford. Before coming back to San Antonio, Silva served as the associate pastor at First United Methodist Church in Corpus Christi for three years. His current job keeps him busy because he travels to three campuses that are part of San Antonio United Methodist Campus Ministries. He travels to Trinity and UTSA. Silva is at this college all day Tuesday and Wednesday, and Thursday and Friday mornings. Silva has some new things planned for the Methodist Student Movement and some things he’d like to keep. Bible Study, Inspirational Movies and Hot Potato presentations will continue. “There is a lot of really good stuff that is going to continue from the last couple of years, and then some stuff I’d like to get back to,” Silva said. Silva would like to bring back local, national and international mission trips. In the past, he went on mission trips to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, England and Scotland. Silva has been in youth ministry for eight years, and a majority of that time was spent at SMU in Dallas. In seminary, he learned to see both sides of an issue and argue both sides. Silva said listening to different viewpoints helped him think beyond himself and deepened his understanding of other points of views. He said instead of the churches begging the students to come, campus ministry meets the students where they are, so the students can be themselves and feel welcome. “You don’t have to act differently; you don’t have to dress differently or whatever to be in conversation with me. The thing that unites us is that I have a love for my neighbor, and you’re my neighbor, and I’m coming to meet you,” Silva said. Silva has been the director at this college since July 1. The former director, the Rev. John Feagins, moved to La Trinidad United Methodist Church in San Antonio. For more information, call Silva at 210733-1441.

Professor wages war By Adriana Ruiz

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Requiring businesses to pay employees a minimum wage of $7.25 in Texas is not necessarily a bad thing, said economics Professor Susan Spencer, who drew a crowd of more than 20 students to a Hot Potato lecture Oct. 8 in the Methodist Student Center. Spencer used the topic “Minimum Wage War” to express her opinion on ethics in business, strikes, and the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare. The topic was originally scheduled to be “The Effects of Legalizing Marijuana” but was changed because of scheduling conflicts. Spencer said business owners have a right to make money and maximize profits. “It’s not just whatever is good for the worker; the entrepreneur has a right to make some money,” she said.

Spencer said the government requiring businesses to pay a minimum wage is not a bad thing and the current wage of $7.25 is not necessarily too low. Spencer talked to students about ethics and how big businesses take advantage of their employees. She shared with students an experience her daughter went through when working as a waitress. Spencer said that 20 years ago her daughter almost lost out on some money when a computer malfunction miscalculated employee earnings and management tried to get away with not paying employees the correct amount. Spencer said, it was wrong and she called the restaurant manager threatening to call the Texas Workforce Commission. “I told them we’re going to start with the Texas Workforce Commission and work up

from that,” Spencer said. When asked if she called the commission, Spencer said, “No, because they gave them their money back.” Spencer also touched on insurance companies and how they work. “Insurance companies need people who don’t need insurance to be paying into the pool so that pool will be there when you do need it in a catastrophe,” Spencer said. Spencer answered questions on Obamacare and said she does not believe the care act will crash, but she does believe it will need many modifications. Obamacare, or the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, was signed into law March 23, 2010, by President Barack Obama. The Supreme Court upheld the law June 20, 2012. It requires that all Americans have health insurance.


Pulse

11 • Oct. 25, 2013

www.theranger.org/pulse

Hasta la Vista, baby SAC loses to NVC 87-68, slips to 0-2. By Michael Peters

mpeters28@student.alamo.edu

The player charged into the lane and leapt high toward the hoop before he collided with an opposing player and fell to the floor. When he realized the officials called no foul, he slammed his hands onto the hardwood in frustration. The opposing team gathered the ball and stormed down the court before drawing a foul. This was the story of the night for business communication sophomore Andrew Butler and his Ranger teammates during Wednesday’s 87-68 loss versus the Northwest Vista Wildcats in Candler Physical Education Center. The Rangers held an early 14-9 lead before four straight turnovers led to the Wildcats taking a lead they would not relinquish. The Wildcats would go on a 26-3 run to take a 35-17 lead over the Rangers. The Rangers clawed back to within striking distance before losing momentum with mistakes. “Officiating was horrible,” said men’s basketball coach Matt Ramirez. “(I’m) not making excuses, but every time we’d get momentum, the refs would come up with something.” While officiating was a point of frustration for the Rangers,

Communication design sophomore Bea Garcia gets trapped against the sideline as she looks for an open teammate as Northwest Vista Lady Wildcats block her attempt Wednesday. Daniel Arguelles

Lady Rangers lose game late Art sophomore Devon Dickens soars above business sophomore Turundus Luckett as he attempts to score. Daniel Arguelles Ramirez was quick to point out costly turnovers and a loss of composure as major contributing factors to the result. The Rangers drop their second game in a row to start the season winless after last week’s 102-95 loss to the Southwest Texas Junior College Cowboys. The Wildcats have started 2-0 after defeating the St.

Philip’s Tigers 66-57 last week. Both Wildcat victories have come on the road. The Rangers will take on the Victoria College Pirates 8 p.m. Wednesday at VC sports center gym. The Wildcats face off against Southwest Texas Junior College 8 p.m. Wednesday at Huisache Hall.

Vista completes comeback, defeats Lady Rangers 51-47. By Michael Peters

mpeters28@student.alamo.edu

The home crowd was going wild; the Lady Rangers were in the midst of a 24-6 run, giving them a comfortable 12-point lead late in the first half. Northwest Vista was staring down the possibility of seeing the game slip away as they struggled to hit their stride. Then, in the closing seconds of the first half, Vista snatched momentum and, eventually, the victory 51-47 over the Lady Rangers Wednesday in Candler Physical Education Center. With just seconds remaining in the first half, kinesiology sophomore Leslie Rosales tossed up a long range 3-pointer that somehow found its way into the hoop as the buzzer sounded to end the first half. Rosales shrugged her

shoulders with her hands out like Michael Jordan in Game 1 of the 1992 NBA Finals as her teammates raced to greet her at center court. Visibly energized by the amazing shot; momentum had swung in favor of the Lady Wildcats. Down 27-18 at halftime, the Lady Wildcats took the momentum and turned it into a 35-33 lead. Momentum would swing again, this time in favor of the Lady Rangers as they took advantage of Vista turnovers to take a 38-35 lead. Down 47-46 with about one minute remaining in the game, accounting freshman Claire Renteria grabbed the offensive rebound after Vista missed consecutive free throws before dishing to criminal justice sophomore Josalyn Madrigal for a 3-pointer. Vista would add two free throws before game’s end. The loss dropped the Lady Rangers to 0-2 on the season

after last week’s 87-44 loss to Southwest Texas Junior College. The victory brought the Lady Wildcats’ record to 2-0 after last week’s 63-35 defeat of St. Philip’s. Communication design sophomore Bea Garcia and education sophomore Samantha Lopez battled to the end. Women’s basketball coach Forris Phillips was proud of his team’s effort and noted the vast improvement they made from their first performance of the season. “(It’s) a tough loss, but they fought hard and I’m proud of that,” Phillips said. “We made silly mental mistakes, but we’ll get it corrected one game at a time.” Up next for the Lady Rangers will be Victoria College 6 p.m. Wednesday at VC sports center gym. The Lady Wildcats will take on Southwest Texas Junior College 6 p.m. Wednesday at Huisache Hall.

Club runs boot camp Nov. 2 This year is the sixth run to benefit the Kinesiology Club and scholarships. By Lorena R. Rivera sac-ranger@alamo.edu

It’s time for the sixth annual SAC Boot Camp 5- and 10-mile run sponsored by the kinesiology department. The race starts 8 a.m. Nov. 2 at the Leon Creek Greenway Trailhead, behind the Drury Inn at Loop 1604 and Interstate 10 West. Proceeds from the race fund the Kinesiology Club and scholarship. Also, money raised from this event helps fund club members’ travel to the Texas Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance convention in December. The SAC Boot Camp has picked up several sponsors. Main Street Pizza & Pasta, Luby’s, and Academy Sports and Outdoors are just a few of the sponsors for this year’s race. The race is open to the public, but the

price has gone up. This year, the 10-miler was $35 for early registration and now is $40, and the 5-miler was $25 and now costs $30. Discounts are available to Alamo College students and active duty military and veterans. The 10-miler for students and military is $30. The 5-miler is $25. Military dependents are not eligible for the discount. Wellness Coordinator Chris Dillon says the race date change was to benefit area runners. “We moved the date of the race to be two weeks before the Rock and Roll Marathon, so that local marathon trainers can participate in the race to help with their training,” he said. Participants need to register by 11:59 p.m. today. Late registration is available with a $10 fee and the T-shirt will not be guaranteed. Participants can register online at active. com or in person at The Athlete’s Foot, 923 N. Loop 1604 E., or by calling Dillon at 210403-2413.


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