THE RANGER
A forum of free voices serving San Antonio College since 1926
Vol. 84 Issue 20
Single copies free
April 9, 2010
Fight club BANNER DELAYS 7 MUSICAL MEMORIAL 12 CHINA BOUND 15
The Ranger
2 • April 9, 2010
Officials Chancellor: Dr. Bruce H. Leslie 201 W. Sheridan, Bldg. B, San Antonio, TX 78204-1429 Work: 485-0020 Fax: 208-8149 E-mail: bleslie@alamo.edu District 1: Dr. Bernard Weiner 929 Manor Drive, Ste. 7, San Antonio, TX 78228 Work: 735-9151 E-mail: bweinermd@satx.rr.com District 2: Denver McClendon 3811 Willowwood Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78219 Work: 281-9141 E-mail: denvermcclendon@satx.rr.com District 3: Anna U. Bustamante 511 Ware Blvd., San Antonio TX 78221 Work: 882-1603 Fax: 927-4557 E-mail: abustamante20@alamo.edu District 4: Marcelo S. Casillas 115 Wainwright, San Antonio, TX 78211 Home: 922-6815 Fax: 923-3167 E-mail: mcasillas19@alamo.edu District 5: Roberto Zárate 4103 Buffalo Bayou, San Antonio, TX 78251 E-mail: rzarate11@alamo.edu District 6: Dr. Gene Sprague 14722 Iron Horse Way, Helotes, TX 78023 Work: 567-5544 Fax: 520-9185 E-mail: sprague@uthscsa.edu District 7: Blakely Latham Fernandez 755 E. Mulberry, Suite 200, San Antonio, TX 78212 Phone: 244-8879 E-mail: bfernandez35@alamo.edu District 8: Gary Beitzel 15403 Forest Mist, San Antonio, TX 78232 Home: 496-5857 E-mail: gbeitzel@alamo.edu District 9: James A. Rindfuss 109 Laburnum, San Antonio, TX 78209 Home: 828-4630 Work: 375-2555 Home Fax: 832-8292 Office Fax: 375-0301 E-mail: jrindfuss@alamo.edu
Presidents San Antonio College, Dr. Robert E. Zeigler 486-0959, rzeigler@alamo.edu Northeast Lakeview College, Dr. Eric Reno 486-5484, ereno@alamo.edu Northwest Vista College, Dr. Jacqueline Claunch 486-4900, jclaunch@alamo.edu Palo Alto College, Dr. Ana M. “Cha” Guzman 486-3960, aguzman@alamo.edu St. Philip’s College, Dr. Adena W. Loston 486-2900, aloston@alamo.edu
The Ranger Editor Laura Garcia Managing Editor Zahra Farah News Editor Vanessa M. Sanchez Calendar Editor Riley Stephens Photographers Tyler K. Cleveland Rennie Murrell Alison Wadley Photo Team Scott Aranda, Scott J. Bajeck, Jennifer Charo, Sarah Janes, James Lazo, Marisa N. Montano, Julysa Sosa, Robert Stofa Illustrator Juan Carlos Campos Staff Writers Ximena Victoria Alvarez, Jacob Beltran, Michelle E. Gaitan, Joshua Sanchez Guerrero, Steffany Gutierrez, John P. Kline, Alexandria Maxwell, Melody Mendoza, Celeste J. Nentwig, Victoria G. Ortiz, Amanda M. Rios, Brandy A. Santos, Reagan White Production Manager Jason B. Hogan Web Editor D.A. James ©2010 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, the student newspaper at San Antonio College, is a laboratory project of the journalism classes in the Department of Media Communications, published Fridays except during summer, holidays and examinations. News contributions accepted by telephone (486-1773), by fax (486-1789), by e-mail (sacranger@alamo.edu) or at the editorial office (Room 212 Loftin Student Center). Advertising rates available upon request by phone (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, the Texas Community College Journalism Association and the Associated Press.
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, e-mailed to sac-ranger@alamo. edu or faxed to 486-1789. Letters must be signed and must include the writer’s printed name, classification, major, Social Security number or college identification number and telephone number. For more information, call 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.
The Ranger • Vol. 84 • Issue 20
April 9, 2010 • 3
The RangeR
A forum of free voices serving San Antonio College since 1926
2 Policies and officials 4 Blotter 5 News
Students receive harassing texts
By Vanessa M. Sanchez Photo by Brandy A. Santos
14 Calendar 15 Apply for passport now
for summer study abroad By Reagan White
16 Library shooter’s trial
Online @ theranger.org People slideshow Boxing video
Student reports assault, drug use in Moody
set for June
Trustees get laptops
6 People
17 Suicide prevention
Trustees advocate increased funding at Washington conference
By Vanessa M. Sanchez
7 Mock Banner registration Photos and story by Zahra Farah
8 Faculty Senate takes on cheating By Zahra Farah
9 Summer college for kids By Steffany Gutierrez
Financial aid award By Melody Mendoza
10 Supporters cite Hoy’s experience
Story and photos by Laura Garcia
11 English professor hosts Ingraham event Story by Zahra Farah Photos by Laura Garcia
By Melody Mendoza Photo by Rennie Murrell
training planned
By Brandy A. Santos Illustration by Juan Carlos Campos
18 Editorials
Student’s death impacts spring gala
Cartoon Let student speak, Cafeteria cleans up, Letter to the editor: Chancellor claims misquote
SGA goes to conference
20 Scholarship advice
Fair offers free financial services
21 Candler recalled as college legend, influence
NVC student performs in Miley Cyrus movie
By Steffany Gutierrez
By Laura Garcia Photos by Julysa Sosa
22 Red Cross consultant
promotes volunteering
NLC dedicates facilities in librarian’s memory Zeigler speaks to high school students
EEO Editorial Complete Blotter
By Alexandria Maxwell
12 Premiere
OLLU Literary Fest By Reagan White
Fiesta FunFest By Riley Stephens
FredStock music festival By Jacob Beltran
Voiceless find expression in artist’s work By Brandy A. Santos Photo by Robert Stofa
Meet the DJ
23 Boxing event today
Story by Riley Stephens and Tyler K. Cleveland Cover photo by Tyler K. Cleveland
24 PAC’s strong men By Melody Mendoza Photos by Scott J. Bajek
www.theranger.org
Next week is the last print issue. Go to www.theranger.org for news and information.
4 • April 9, 2010
San Antonio College March 22 — An officer reported graffiti on the McAllister Fine Arts. March 26 — An officer from another agency lost his radio and baton. March 27 — An individual reported he was involved in a hit and run. Driver of second vehicle fled the scene and failed to render aid. March 29 — An individual reported a vehicle with keys in the ignition. All found to be OK. An individual reported a personal vehicle being burglarized and battery being taken. No suspects. April 1 — An individual reported smoking on campus. Upon search of area, no smokers located. April 2 — An officer reported a
Blotter
The Ranger
vehicle operating with an expired inspection decal. Upon further inspection, vehicle operator found to be in possession of a controlled substance.
ed damage to their vehicle in Lot 2. No further information.
Palo Alto College
March 30 — An individual reported a hit-and-run vehicle accident.
March 24 — An individual reported burglary of a vehicle in Lot 11. No suspects located. March 25 — An individual reported someone struck their vehicle in Lot 1 and did not leave any information. March 29 — An individual reported his personal vehicle had been stolen off campus, which was reported to SAPD. The vehicle contained two district keys.
An individual reported stolen district sign. No suspects.
An individual reported two males looking into vehicles. Males not located.
March 23 — An individual reported an assault that occurred between two males. March 25 — An individual reported a female on campus who was crying. All found to be OK. March 30 — An individual reported a female yelling at her over driving issues. Female departed area. March 31 — An officer assisted another agency with serving two warrants. No further incident.
April 1 — An officer assisted another agency to serve a subpeona. No further information.
www.theranger.org Southwest Campus
Visit our Web site for complete blotter.
St. Philip’s College
April 1 — An individual reported missing district property. No further action taken.
March 29 — An individual report-
Northwest Vista College
Northeast Lakeview College
March 23 — An individual reported a suspicious male in the commons building. Suspect located in the library. Everything found to be OK.
The Ranger
April 9, 2010 • 5
Students blame faculty for harassment Brandy A. Santos
By Vanessa M. sanchez Two radio-television-film sophomores made a police report to the district police department Wednesday afternoon saying they were being harassed by another classmate. The students, one male and one female, said they went to the police after nothing was done to solve the issue when they brought it to the attention of their teacher, Professor John Onderdonk, and Markene Bennett, coordinator of radio-television-broadcasting in the media communications department. They also approached department Chair Marianne Odom. When asked about the incident, Odom said “I cannot discuss it because of a privacy issue.” The students have asked to remain unidentified. Both disabled, the students said they have been verbally harassed since the semester began. The male student used to use a cane to walk; the female student also said she was disabled. When questioned about the harassment Monday, Onderdonk said, “I can’t comment on that; there’re privacy issues.” The male student reported to district police that he received numerous text messages from one of his classmates, who is described as a black male, about 6 feet tall with green eyes. He said some texts contained racial slurs while others stated, “I know where you live.” The two students said their harasser received their phone numbers from a contact list made for students to communicate while collaborating on a group project. The male student also informed officers he was assaulted by the classmate March 18 outside of Longwith Radio-Television-Film Building and said he is tired of being harassed. He has filed assault charges with SAPD but also expects the college to address the problem, he said. The female student said she is being verbally attacked. She said she is continually disrupted during class by verbal slurs about her weight. The male student said he was told by Onderdonk that his harasser has had a tough life and that he and the female student are old enough to be mature about the situation and ignore their fellow student, however, the student said, “I don’t think it should be tolerated.” He said he discussed the matter several
Corporal Guillermo Perez and Officer Henry Rodriguez read a violent and explicit text that was sent to a student from a classmate. Campus police were called April 1 to Loftin Student Center to investigate a formal inquiry. times with Onderdonk and Bennett and was told to simply ignore the student harassing him. The male student said he followed the rules, but the harassment continued. The female student said she spoke with the harassing classmate while in tears, asking him to please stop bothering her. They shared a hug and he apologized, but the harassment soon returned, she said. The male and female student said they continue to be harassed in class while other students either laugh or roll their eyes at the situation. The female student said, “Even though we’re
going to the administrators, nothing’s being done as of yet.” However this student being harassed has had his hips replaced from injuries when he was in the military. The student said his harasser is about 20 years old, which drove him to ask: “When’s old enough, enough to know better?” The female student said that when she finally had enough and spoke up for herself, asking her harasser to be quiet during class, Onderdonk threatened to throw her out for disturbing the class. She said it was sad that Onderdonk responded as he did. When contacted Monday morning, Bennett said she had no comment. “I really feel uncomfortable talking about it,” she said. Under the student code of conduct in the student handbook is the nonacademic grievance policy, which states, “This concern could include misconduct or a condition the student believes to be unfair, inequitable, discriminatory, or a hindrance to the student’s educational progress.” If a matter cannot be settled through an instructor, these concerns should be brought to the attention of Manuel Flores, director of enrollment management. Flores’ office is in Room 209 of Fletcher Administration Center. He can be reached at 486-0325 or mflores1@ alamo.edu.
Student reports assault, drugs in Moody By Vanessa M. sanchez
Burger looked back to see if the male had listened to him, he saw him gripPsychology sophomore ping hard the wrist of the girl Matthew Burger said he walked with him, he said. into Moody Learning Center at Burger said he went to the noon Thursday to find a male reserve desk to ask the first with his apparent girlfriend, person he saw, Librarian Tom as the male tried to physically Bahlinger, to contact DPS. assault the female. Bahlinger called immediately www.theranger.org Burger said Tuesday the and was told someone had Go online for an extended female tried taking the escalacalled about the assault and an version of this story. tor down from the second to officer already was on the way. the first floor, but the male hit Burger then tried to find the her arm, grabbed her wrist, then pulled her students so he went into the men’s restroom to take the escalators up. on the third floor and found two other young Burger said he told the male to quit. As men snorting cocaine off the sink, he said.
6 • April 9, 2010
People
The Ranger Tyler K. Cleveland
Tribute:
Music sophomore Hannah Carothers tapes a letter written in memory of Jasmayne “Jasz” McCullough during a vigil Monday at West Dewey and Belknap. Carothers said she used to wrestle with McCullough, a student in the Gateway-to-College program at this college, and she wanted a rematch after losing to McCullough in their last and final round. See story on The Ranger Online.
Tyler K. Cleveland
Tyler K. Cleveland
Support: Liberal arts sophomore Maxine Dickinson and members of the Gay and Lesbian Association at this college demonstrate with students of other universities at Our Lady of the Lake University Saturday. Members of Westboro Baptist Church did not show up to protest a play performed about Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old homosexual who was beaten and left on the side of the road Oct. 6, 1998. He died four days later. Scott Aranda
Winner: Janet Lozano, executive assistant secretary to the college president and Employee of the Month for April, receives a document from Jasmine Gonzales, education sophomore and work-study clerk, April 7 in the president’s office in Fletcher. When Lozano was asked about her experience, she said, “I love it! Especially when you have a great boss. It makes it even better!”
Right there: Massage therapist Dora Foley works on liberal arts freshman Mike Smith during the health fair Wednesday in Gym 2 of Candler.
The Ranger
April 9, 2010 • 7
Students participate in mock Banner registration Success was hit-or-miss for first district trial of Banner Student Services registration software. Story and photo by Zahra Farah About 40 students from student development classes attended the district’s first mock Banner registration Tuesday morning in the career center on the first level of Moody. Banner is the new registration system students will be using April 26 for fall 2010 registration. Registration was moved from April 19 to April 26 because departments needed more time to input class schedules and classroom room numbers into Banner Student Services, and give more training to faculty and staff. These were the first test run of students to register through the new system, so Banner consultants could catch glitches before actual registration. Angie Guillen, Northwest Vista College records and reports coordinator who currently works at the center for student information at Pat Booker Road, conducted the mock registration and directed students to register for classes. First, students had to use their PALS user name as their login username to register and their password was the first two letters of their last name, the two-digit number of the month they were born, two-digit day they were born and two-digit year they were born. This is where some students began to see trouble. Education freshman Cassandra Libhart could not log into Banner with her PALS username. “I’m kind of frustrated because it won’t let me in. No one told me why I can’t log in,” she said. Libhart could not continue and watched her neighbor register for classes. Some students faced challenges while others smoothly continued into the system. Early childhood studies freshmen Crystal Mosqueda said Banner seems the same as the other system (Passport.) Next, students selected classes they would take in the fall. A student must be sure they register for classes at the college they will attend because Banner lists every college in the district that teaches a particular course. Business management freshman Jaun Wong said he could not find three different remedial math classes and hopes these complications are fixed for the future. “We’re here to break the system as much as we can, and
Crystal Mosqueda, early childhood studies freshman, asks Angie Guillen, records and reports coordinator at Northwest Vista College, for assistance in a mock Banner registration Tuesday at the career center. Students participated in a mock Banner registration so consultants could catch glitches before it goes live April 26. try to deal with things that already should have been dealt with.” Students who did not have complications and could register for their classes smoothly found the system easy, while other students who had holds on their application formed a line around Ezequiel Terrazas, Banner consultant from district’s central offices. Only two people knew how to move holds at the mock registration. The majority of counselors who had observed still did not have the knowledge or the authority to do so. David Rodriguez, counselor and Banner super user, said, “It’s a massive undertaking. We have to figure out and rethink the way we do business with students. There are going to be mistakes, but we still ask for cooperation from students.”
Jennifer Alvizo, counselor and super Banner user, said, “There are so many questions. It’s going to take time and persistence, but we have to take a step back and breathe.” Letty Rashid, transfer center adviser and former University of Texas at San Antonio adviser, said when she began working at UTSA in 2004, she went through a week of Banner training to understand the system. When she arrived, Banner was already implemented at UTSA. She said Banner trainers were able to tell her everything she needed to advise students. “If we don’t have access to Banner, it’s going to be a challenge to advise students,” she said, She said right now she does not have access to Banner, but she will be grateful to have access to start getting more familiar with the system.
The Ranger
8 • April 9, 2010
Faculty Senate discusses student integrity, syllabuses By Zahra Farah Faculty Senate discussed a proposed procedure for handling incidents of cheating or plagiarizing at Wednesday’s meeting. Political science Professor Christy Woodward-Kaupert promoted a clear academic integrity disciplinary process that would outline procedures to respond to academic dishonesty. Woodward-Kaupert said there is no way for a faculty member to know if an incident is a student’s first offense or the seriousness of a previous offense. Some offenses are not severe because students are unaware that they are plagiarizing, she said. In 2008, a district committee under the direction of the vice chancellors of academic success and student success sent a proposal for review by Faculty Senates from each college. This senate’s policy committee questioned students and staff on a committee that judges students and the need for faculty members to know how many offenses a student has com-
mitted. The senate committee recommended Hunt questioned the schedule for compliance that only faculty be involved because of privacy with a state mandate to include additional issues but that a professor should know about information and availability of course syllaprevious offenses to prevent continual cheatbuses. Texas Gov. Rick Perry signed a bill into ing. law in June that requires the sylWoodward-Kaupert said labus from each course, the faculty Thursday that the issue of acamember’s curriculum vitae and demic integrity discipline is being student evaluation summaries be discussed again. The senate’s recposted online by fall. ommendations have not been The law also requires that this included. information be no more than three www.theranger.org The proposed procedures will clicks away from the instructor’s or Go online for an extended be given to college vice presidents institution’s Web page. version of this story. of academic affairs next week and In a phone interview Thursday, will be considered by each college’s executive Hunt said district officials said they would make committee. Then faculty senates will get to sugthe templates for the syllabuses. gest revisions, she said. He said Dr. Robert Aguero, vice chancellor “I absolutely support a clear and compre- for academic success, said it would be done by hensible procedure to be put in place, but I spring break. would hate to see faculty not included so we The senate has not seen the new template. cannot put in our best discretion,” WoodwardNeither Aguero nor Jo-Carol Fabianke, associate Kaupert said Thursday. vice chancellor for academic partnerships and In other business, Faculty Senate Chair Jeff initiatives, were available Thursday.
Save the date! The Ranger’s Spring Source Awards and Ice Cream Social 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 20 Second floor of Loftin, outside balcony
For more info, call 486-1765
The Ranger
April 9, 2010 • 9
Hands-on summer program give kids a step up Reading, writing and mathematics challenge young students’ problem-solving abilities. By Steffany Gutierrez The College for Kids program here each summer is designed for third-graders through middle school students who want to get a head start on the next year or for those who have fallen behind and desire to catch up. This enrichment program offers unique hands-on learning in various subjects such as writing, reading, mathematics, science, computer applications and drawing. Courses are separated into two groups: elementary and middle school students. The writing course focuses on creative writing, from short journals to essays, among other things. The reading course focuses on reading comprehension skills, such as producing summaries and using context, while the science and math courses cover various topics, such as hands-on experiments and problem-solving, respectively. In the computer application course, elementary students have fun learning about
dinosaurs, space and the rain forest, while middle school students can learn basic Microsoft programs, such as Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. The drawing and painting course focuses on basic painting and drawing techniques as well as observation skills. While the program does not fulfill any missing credits, students receive supplemental training to advance learning and school success. This program is beneficial for the students in that it exposes them to the college environment while strengthening skills. Upon completion of a course, students receive a certificate of completion and the courses are listed on their transcripts. Registration begins May 1 on campus and continues 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday in Room D403 of the CE Annex, 309 W. Dewey Place. Orientation will be 6 p.m.-7 p.m. June 10 in the visual arts center. The first session is June 14-July 2 and the second session is July 12-30. Students can enroll in up to three courses in each session for a full day with early drop-off and late pick-up for $396. Anelia Luna, program manager, said, “It’s
College for Kids Registration begins May 1 continuing Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in Room D403 of the CE Annex, 309 W. Dewey Place. The program has existed for the past 26 Yvonne Freckmann years for students to learn to maximize their skills. Students receive a certificate of completion at the end of the program. For more information, contact program manager Anelia Luna at 486-0413 or e-mail aluna@alamo.edu or visit www.alamo. edu/sac/ce/cfk/index.html/.
very helpful for kids in order to catch up, or stay ahead, and at the same time, it’s fun. This program lets students explore the college campus and college life.”
Scholarships deducted from finacial aid, awards Awards determined by status and finances. By Melody Mendoza Students on financial aid may not benefit financially from applying for scholarships, even when they are selected to receive an award. Once a student’s financial aid package is determined, the student’s award is docked for the amount of scholarship funds the college receives in that student’s name. Although students are encouraged to apply for scholarships, being awarded may not equal a net gain.
Each year, students fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid application to determine their estimated family contribution, federal financial aid and student budget. The amount of money in a student’s budget is divided into two categories, Tom Campos, director of student financial services at this college, said. A student is either dependent or independent. An independent student is 24 years old and older. Dependent students are younger than 24, but are divided into two categories: those who live at home with their parents and those who live without their parents. Independent students usually
get the most money because this determination is initially based on living expense, Campos said. After a student’s budget is determined, external grants and aid cannot exceed that budget, Rose Carreon-Muñoz, senior director of financial services, said. If a student is awarded a scholarship or receives need-based aid that exceeds the budget, reductions will be made to the student’s aid in an equal amount. Although students might find this unfair, the college is given only a certain amount of money to distribute to students. “Federal and state programs were not made to support a person, but instead to help pay the
cost of college,” Campos said. If student aid is near exceeding the budget, the financial services office will contact the student. Students can fill out a special circumstance form to offset the budget. Campos gave an example of a 22-year-old student who lives with a grandparent. In this case, a special circumstance would be considered because this student may not be able to get his parents’ income information to fill out the FAFSA application, Campos said. For more information, call 486-0600 or go to the financial aid office in Room 101 of Fletcher Administration Center.
The Ranger
10 • April 9, 2010
Supporters cite Hoy’s experience for winning their vote Laura Garcia
Retired vice president kicks off his campaign for District 1 with an open house at his headquarters. By Laura Garcia Community members stopped by District 1 candidate Dr. Thomas Hoy’s campaign headquarters for an open house April 3. He is going up against St. Mary’s University student Tyler Ingraham; part-time college employee Rowland Martin and former San Antonio Councilman Joe Alderete Jr. for the District 1 trustee seat. The retired executive vice president from this college welcomed supporters at the door and discussed the coming election. Many who came by Hoy’s headquarters, located in Suite 111 at 1933 Fredericksburg Road, were already on board and confident of his qualifications. “He has the background and the knowledge,” registered nurse Gabriel Mendiola said. “His dedication to ACCD far outweighs any other candidates.” He said he’s known Hoy for more than 33 years and understands his integrity and devotion to the district. Mendiola was a student at St. Philip’s College in the LVN program when he first met Hoy. At that time, he said Hoy was a counselor for minority students and was a good friend. He explained that this election is important because it’s for a six-year term. Mendiola said his son, Jacob, will be going to college in the district in about six years and the decisions trustees are making now will affect future students. Jacob and his mother also attended the event. H. Pete Sosa, executive director of Tejas Recovery and Counseling Services Inc., met Hoy in 1972 and is in charge of volunteers for the campaign. Sosa said most are doing block walks and phone banks and estimates there are about 50 volunteers signed up. Inocencia Rey, secretary of a local League of United Latin American Citizens council, came by during the open house to turn in a phone bank list. “We’re friends and we believe; so we can walk,” she said. LULAC cannot endorse a candidate, but individual members can still participate in
Dr. Rudy Reyna, executive director of the prefreshman engineering program at University of Texas at San Antonio, and H. Pete Sosa, campaign chair of volunteers, speak Saturday with District 1 candidate Thomas Hoy during an open house. election campaigns, Sosa said. A former San Antonio College graduate and adjunct professor in substance abuse counseling, Sosa said he and Hoy decided after working together at the college that a chemical dependency program was needed on the deep West Side. Sosa said Hoy was a TRACS partner for 12 years. Hoy is still a consultant for drug abuse agencies across Texas and was coordinator of an institutional drug abuse prevention grant at this college in 1993-95. Hoy’s experience at this college includes being director of Title 3 and Title 5, Hispanicserving-institution grants; counselor and coordinator of the disability support services office for 11 years; student development professor; and coordinator of the college’s 75th anniversary commemoration in 2000. At this college and St. Philip’s College, Hoy was a counselor and coordinator of special services for disadvantaged students for eight years. Hoy was coordinator of the college developmental studies program at St. Philip’s College in 1981. Hoy retired from the district in 2006, and a year later, the college renamed a continuing education program, established in spring of 2003, the Thomas C. Hoy Leadership Institute. He sponsors scholarships for the institute. “Thomas is the right person for the job,” said Hoy’s wife, Cathy, at the open house. “I feel his input would be very valuable.” Opponent Ingraham’s campaign co-
managers, Robert Pohl, an English senior at University of Texas at San Antonio, and Jacob Segarra stopped by to introduce themselves. Pohl said, in a telephone interview Tuesday, they asked Hoy about his opinion on the chancellor’s goal of 50-50 ratio for full-time to parttime faculty. He said Hoy told them that he prefers to have 100 percent full-time faculty but knows that may not be possible and would support a 60-40 ratio. Also, Pohl said, they wanted to get a feel of how much money Hoy is putting into the campaign. Pohl asked Hoy if he would meet with Ingraham’s staff after the election, no matter who wins, to learn about his campaign strategies, and he agreed. Hoy said during the event that his goal is to run a fair campaign that’s positive. “I want to see that we can continue a high level of ethics on the board,” Hoy said. He added that one of his goals, if elected, is to promote training for low-income, hard-toemploy people. Hoy’s Web site said he wants to support higher education that creates innovative programs that will sustain high-paying jobs in the city. Also, he said he wants to provide more access to college, GED certification and technical training that leads to jobs that pay a livable wage. For more information, go to www.electhoy. com.
The Ranger
April 9, 2010 • 11 Laura Garcia
P.C. “Cricket” Ingraham, Emma Diaz, Tyler Ingraham, Kristy Hedgepeth and Jacob Segarra attend a fundraiser March 27 for Ingraham. About 50 people attended.
English professor hosts poetry, prose and politics By Zahra Farah More than 50 guests attended a poetry, prose and politics fundraiser in the home of English Professor Janice Clayton Saturday for Tyler Ingraham, candidate for District 1 on the Alamo Community College board of trustees. Ingraham is a former student of this college and political science junior at St. Mary’s University. He is seeking the open District 1 seat and faces competition from part-time college employee Rowland Martin; former City Councilman Joe V. Alderete Jr.; and Dr. Thomas Hoy, former executive vice president of this college. Guests discussed their opinions of the board and reasons they support Ingraham. They also recited original poetry and prose. Clayton and her husband, the Rev. Bert Clayton, played hosts for the event because she said it is important for people in college to have an interest in politics and desire to be involved. Janice Clayton, who has been working at this college for 40 years, said she was thrilled to see a former San Antonio College student run for the board because Ingraham, who is in the classroom everyday, understands the significance of teacher-to-student relationships. “I think it’s tremendously important for the
board to have input from a student,” Janice Clayton said. The Claytons met Ingraham when Bert Clayton was a pastor at United Methodist Church in Canyon Lake. Ingraham was part of the youth group. “We saw him grow up,” Janice Clayton said. Garry Partridge, English department adjunct coordinator, said he is primarily supporting Ingraham because he is a voice for change that realizes the status quo is not working. “The current administration/district is run by businessmen who are promoting a flawed business model,” Partridge said. “Tyler isn’t a businessmen. He understands education should focus on students and teachers.” If Ingraham is elected, Partridge said he hopes Ingraham is a voice of reason for the board and his focus relies primarily on students and secondarily on faculty. The current board’s only focus is on taxpayer votes, he said. “I understand the board isn’t solely responsible for these problems. It’s coming from state government, but current and previous decisions aren’t education friendly,” he said. English Professor Carol Reposa said she supports “Tyler because our current board seems to not know or care for student success. “They are interested in everything in the
world except the academic growth of our students,” Reposa said. “If it’s not for student growth, then why are we here?” Ingraham, who is running on the slogan “putting community back in Alamo Colleges,” discussed at the fundraiser a bigger push to make more adjunct faculty full-time professors. He said the dedication and time professors put into students go beyond what they are paid. By increasing pay, colleges can get the best and brightest teachers. Ingraham’s parents described how they felt when Ingraham told them he was running for the board. “I thought he was teasing me,” his mother P.C. “Cricket” Ingraham said. “To see him being taken seriously and having these desires are remarkable and amazing.” She said if her son is elected, she knows he will ask fellow board members what are the ground works, meaning he will ask what are the rules. P.C. “Cricket” Ingraham said her son is willing to do the research. Ingraham’s father, Richard Murray, said he is proud of his son and he hopes he is a benefit to the board instead of dead weight. Ingraham’s next event is a block walk from 10:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. April 24 at 1116 Lombrano St. For more information on Ingraham, go to www.runtylerrun.com.
Prem
12 • The Ranger
Meet the KSYM DJs What is your DJ name? On-air I go by Joeycules (Jo-EE-Kleez.) What’s your show and when does it air? I host the “Tsaturday Night Tsunami” Saturdays from 11 p.m.-1 a.m. What kind of music is on your show? Japanese. Everything on the show is J-rock, J-pop or any type of music from Japan. A lot of people into Anime and Japanese culture like the show. What is the funniest thing that has hapJoey Palacios pened while on air? During pledge drive this year, we broadcast on cable TV Channel 98, DJ DavO put on a Frankenstein mask and was dancing around the booth trying to get people to pledge. Classic college radio. What got you interested in radio? In 2006, while in a chat room, I was approached by an Internet radio station called Virtual Music Radio to be a DJ completely out of the blue. I quickly became part of a team of DJs from around the globe. I started looking into radio as a career and found out SAC had an RTF program and radio station. Now I’m KSYM’s program director. What underground/local band do you enjoy? Girl in a Coma. Also The Heroine, Dog Men Poets and local singer/songwriter Stefano. What would surprise people about you? That I used to be a culinary arts major at St. Philip’s and did a chef’s internship at Disney World in Florida. What is your favorite thing about being on air? It feels amazing to play music for the masses! The thing that I really enjoy the most is the interaction with the callers. What has been your favorite show moment? All the different bands I get to meet. That has to be the coolest thing about being a DJ. What new CD will listeners hear on your show? “Absolute” from Polysics. They are known for their New Wave “Devo-esque” style. A lot of their music sounds like it should be coming from another planet. Absolute covers some new ground that they haven’t since their first album, some straight alternative-sounding tracks without their signature electronic and synth sounds.
‘Marginalized Voices’ take c By reagan White Storytellers and story-lovers will take over Our Lady of the Lake University for nine days to allow the little voices in society to be heard. This year’s OLLU literary festival has the theme “With/In/With/Out: Listening to Marginalized Voices.” From today through April 18, authors and others will share works that explore points of view normally left out of mainstream culture. “Literature challenges the status quo,” event coordinator Nan Cuba said. “It focuses on language. It questions or gives insight about the human condition. It’s challenging preconceived ideas. It’s introducing questions about the human experience.” Dorothy Allison will read from “Bastard Out of Carolina,” her novel
about working-class people in Appalachia, at 7 p.m. Wednesday in Thiry Auditorium. “I’ve seen her read,” Cuba said. “She’s a force. She’s like (the movie) ‘Avatar.’” Sandra Cisneros and Oscar Casares also will read from their works. Cisneros’ readings tend to be interactive and unpredictable, while Casares’ readings are more intimate, Cuba said. Cisneros, author of “The House on Mango Street,” will read at 1 p.m. today in Thiry Auditorium. Casares, author of “Amigoland,” will read at 7 p.m. April 15 in the UWAC Conference Room. “His stories come from a place of memory for him, being young and having his uncles tell him stories. It feels as though someone is really
sharing a story with y you could know,” Cub After the read members will have to ask the authors qu “I would love to ing writers would co enough to walk up to and ask a question. T all generous, kind, who hope that will said. Michael Anderso “Tales of the Und stories of historic e resistance, defeat an tory, at 7 p.m. Saturd Conference Room. “Some people cal word artist; some pe storyteller,” Cuba sa about anything, and
Fiesta FunFest Wednesday
Fre
By riley StephenS
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Students ready for Fiesta can get started early at FunFest 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday in the mall. The office of student life hosts the event every spring before the start of Fiesta, which this year runs April 15-25. Fiesta San Antonio started in 1891 with a parade in honor of the heroes of the 1936 battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto that ended Mexico’s control of Texas and marked the birth of a new nation. The annual event has grown to include more than 100 events over 11 days, with attendance up to 3.5 million and 100 local nonprofit member organizations. During FunFest, clubs will be selling food and drinks, ranging from 75 cents to $3.50. Proceeds support club activities. Among the clubs and their offerings are the Public Administration Club selling sodas; San Antonio Education
Partnership, sausage wraps; Gay and Lesbian Association, cascarones; Phi Theta Kappa, nachos; American Institute of Architecture Students, chicken fajitas; Methodist Student Center, catfish; Criminal Justice Club, pizza; Art Guild, fruit cups; Onstage Drama Club, paletas; Society of Women Engineers, brisket tacos; Mexican American Engineers and Scientists, beef fajitas; and Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science, corn in a cup. A caricature artist will be available for free, and student life will give away Fiesta pins. The band Amazing Echoes will perform 11 a.m.-1 p.m. “They’re very Fiesta-y,” Tyler Archer, assistant coordinator of student leadership and activities, said Monday. “This is the last festival of the semester for students and organizations,” she said. For more info, visit www.fiesta-sa.org. For more info on FunFest, call 486-0125.
Fredsto val to ben Business p.m. Thur Radio, Tele Weiss w fessor sinc business p dinator un After W Broadcast started by Music Bus one-year s students a The am determine The fes for the MU class taug tor and m media com Fredstock “We’re Weiss was
miere
April 9, 2010 • 13
center stage at literary fest
you about people ba said. dings, audience the opportunity uestions. think that aspirome and be bold o the microphone These writers are talented people happen,” Cuba
on will present derdog,” telling events featuring nd unlikely vicday in the UWAC
ll him a spokeneople call him a aid. “He can talk d he merges sub-
Courtesy
jects in very off ways. He comes up with odd kinds of connections that make an original point.” The festival was created 20 years ago to give the community a chance to appreciate literature, Cuba said. “I feel like these writers should be the rock stars of our culture,” she said. “I set that as my goal, to get as many people as I could to sit for free and be dazzled by stories and poems and ideas of the great thinkers of our society.” All events at the festival are free except Jean-Paul Sartre’s play “No Exit.” The play will be performed at 8 p.m. April 16 and 17; and 2 p.m. April 18 in Thiry Auditorium. General admission is $10; $5 for students at this college. For information, visit www.ollusa. edu/litfest.
By Brandy a. SantoS
edstock celebrates late professor
Beltran
ock, the first live music festinefit the Fred A. Weiss Music Scholarship, will be 1 p.m.-5 rsday in Lot 6 west of Longwith evision and Film Building. was a radio-television-film proce 1985 who began the music program and served as its coorntil his death in October 2008. Weiss’ death, the San Antonio ters Association, which also was Weiss, created the Fred A. Weiss siness Scholarship, which is a Fred A. Weiss scholarship for music business at this college. mount and distribution of the scholarship will be ed after funds have been raised from Fredstock. stival also was set up as part of the final project USB 2345, Live Music and Talent Management, ght by Donnie Meals, Fredstock event direcmusic business program coordinator in the mmunications department. He said he hopes will become an annual event. e looking forward to a great music event … Fred s a favorite professor and inspired hundreds of
Voiceless find expression in artist’s work
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RTVB students throughout his teaching career,” Meals said. The music festival opens at 9 a.m. with food concession stands selling fajitas, funnel cakes and beverages. Musical performances will be 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Other groups such as the Texas Music Coalition and Local 782, which are networking organizations for local musicians, also will be at the event. Performances lined up for the festival include local bands and artists Jeremy Dein, Hot Sauce, Gary Davenport and Gib Wharton. “Both artists recorded new CDs and are ready to jump back in the scene,” music business sophomore Marcus De Leon said Wednesday. Music performances by Davenport and Wharton will be broadcast live on student radio station KSYM 90.1 FM with Jim Beal, a music writer at the San Antonio ExpressNews, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. during the festival. KSYM disc jockeys will interview band members on air at 7 p.m. Monday during the “Live on KSYM” segment. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, including sponsorship recognition and contributions, call Meals at 486-1380.
As the crowd walked the UTSA gallery, reactions to the images upon the walls ranged from sadness and confusion to pain and, above all, sympathy. A showcase of artist Malaquias Montoya opened March 25. His work can be seen 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 p.m.4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through April 18 in the University of Texas at San Antonio art gallery at the main campus. Montoya’s inspiration is to inform and educate those exploited by racism, sexism and cultural oppression. Montoya collaborates with up-andcoming artists who share relevant issues, www.theranger.org such as globalization, Go online for photos of the war, capital punishopening reception and a longer version of the story. ment and giving a voice to the voiceless. “My personal views and thoughts on art with society were shaped by my being born into a silent and voiceless humanity,” Montoya said. Born in Albuquerque, N.M., and raised in San Joaquin, Calif., Montoya was one of six children born to parents who could neither read nor write Spanish or English. His family had to work as farm laborers. To survive with his rich background and history, Montoya found it necessary to express the hardship he found in classes on Chicano, Mexican and Central American cultures. He said it is his personal responsibility as a Chicano artist to reflect his political thinking of art as protest. Other artists have called Montoya’s art propaganda, which he said is fine because he considers all artwork propagandist in nature. After graduating from the University of California at Berkeley in 1969, Montoya found pop art and funk art mainstream and it didn’t exhibit individualism. From then on, Montoya decided that posters and murals would be his second form of voice. For information, call 458-4402.
Calendar
14 • April 9, 2010 For coverage call 486-1773 or e-mail sac-ranger@alamo.edu two weeks in advance.
Tuesday
p.m.–4 p.m. in Room 105 of the empowerment center. RSVP required. Call 486-0455.
SAC Transfer: Schreiner University 1 p.m.-3 p.m. on the first floor of Chance. Call 486-0869.
Today SAC Event: Virtual reality gaming 1 p.m.-3 p.m. in the Cyber Café of Loftin. Continues Fridays. Call 486-0125. NLC Meeting: Gay and Straight Alliance Club 1 p.m. in Room 208 of the student commons. Continues Tuesday. Call 4865234. SAC Transfer: Texas A&M San Antonio 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. on the first floor of Chance. Appointments from 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Call 486-0869. SAC Performance: “Amadeus” 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of McAllister. Free for district students and employees; $10 general admission; $8 all other students. Continues at 8 p.m. Saturday and at 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Call 486-0494. Saturday SAC Event: Racquetball tournament 9 a.m. racquetball courts in Candler. $5 donation. Call 486-1029. Sunday
Registration: begins.
Summer
The Ranger
April 30 SPC Event: Walk Across Texas 9 a.m.noon San Antonio Botanical Center. Call 486-2199.
registration
SAC Meeting: Astronomy Club 12:30 p.m.–1:30 p.m. in Room 142 of Chance. Call 486-0125. SAC Meeting: Campus Crusade for Christ 1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m. in the craft room of Loftin. Continues Tuesdays. Call 381-0991. SAC Meeting: Cheshyre Cheese Club 3:15 p.m. in Room 127 of Gonzales. Continues Wednesdays. Call 486-0125.
SAC Event: Fall registration.
April 20
Event: Trans-Siberian Orchestra presents Beethoven’s Last Night 8 p.m. Municipal Auditorium. Visit www.ticketmaster.com or www.stonecityattractions.com or call 1-800-745-3000.
Ranger Event: Source Awards 2 p.m. on the balcony of Loftin. Call 486-1773.
May 1
SAC Deadline: Last day to withdraw for Flex 2.
SAC Event: Commencement 10 a.m. at Municipal Auditorium. Call 486-0122.
SAC Event: Multicultural Conference 6 p.m. in McAllister. Continues through April 22. Luncheon 12:15 p.m.-1:45 p.m. April 22 at Ciao Lavanderia in Olmos Park. Call 486-0663.
May 8 Event: Trustee election. Visit www.bexar. org/elections or call 335-8683. May 11
April 22 Wednesday SAC Transfer: University of the Incarnate Word 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the first floor of Chance. Call 486-0869. SAC Event: “Platica” noon-1 p.m. in Room 105 of the empowerment center. RSVP at 486-0455. SAC Meeting: Psychology Club 2 p.m.3 p.m. in Room 606 of Moody. Continues Wednesdays. Call 486-0125.
SAC Deadline: Last day to apply for spring graduation. Call 486-0122. SAC Event: Earth Day Festival 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the mall area. Call 486-0125.
PAC Event: PacFest 2010 11 a.m.-9 p.m. in the central courtyard. Call 4863125.
SAC Deadline: Maymester census date. Last day to drop without a recorded grade of W. May 14 SAC Event: Pep rally 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Candler gym. Call 486-0255. May 20 SAC Deadline: Last day to withdraw for Maymester.
April 23 May 29
Event: Flashy cars, classic cars, lowriders and live music 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Mateo Camargo Park sponsored by Central Cultural Aztlan. Call 432-1896.
April 15 Event: Fiesta San Antonio. Continues through April 25. Visit www.fiesta-sa.org or call 227-5191.
Monday SAC Transfer: University of Phoenix 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the first floor of Chance. Call 486-0869. SAC Deadline: Last day to withdraw for spring semester for a grade of W.
SAC Event: Scholastic Book Fair 9 a.m.2 p.m. in Loftin Student Center sponsored by Black Student Alliance. Continues April 16. Call 486-0125. Registration: Summer 2 registration.
SAC Closing: Battle of Flowers holiday. Weekend classes will meet. April 25
June 19 Event: “Numbers, Decoys and Objects” at the McNay 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Call 805-1768. April 26
Event: “The 20th Century: A View from the Middle East” by author Rashid Khalidi 7:30 p.m. in Laurie Auditorium at Trinity University. Call 999-8406.
SAC Concert: Choir recital at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of McAllister. Call 486-0494. April 17 SAC Event: Women’s relationship retreat 1
SAC Workshop: Overcoming math fear and failure workshop noon to 4 p.m. in Room 712 of Moody. Registration $35. RSVP in Room 712 of Moody or call 486-0183.
Event: Early voting for trustees. Visit http://www.bexar.org/elections/ or call 335-8683.
April 16 SAC Performance: Guitar ensemble 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of McAllister. Call 486-0494.
SAC Closing: College closed for Memorial Day. Continues through May 31.
Event: Writing workshop sponsored by Gemini Ink 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. the last Monday of every month. 513 S. Presa. Call 734-9673. SPC Event: Jazz band 7 p.m. in Watson. Call 486-2205.
Calendar Legend SAC: San Antonio College NVC: Northwest Vista College SPC: St. Philip’s College SWC: South West Campus PAC: Palo Alto College NLC: Northeast Lakeview College
The Ranger
Premiere
April 9, 2010 • 15
Apply for passport now for summer travel Study-abroad trips to China, Japan, Vietnam, Germany and Ireland. By Reagan White Students interested in participating in a study-abroad program this summer should obtain their passports now, Rocky Conrad, computer information systems chair, said. “Even when expedited, passports usually take three weeks to arrive,” he said. The CIS department is giving Alamo Community College District students the chance to earn credit for ITSC 1301, Introduction to Computer Literacy, in China this summer. CHIN 1411, Elementary Chinese 1, also is being offered for this study-abroad opportunity. Students may register for one or both. The Department of State Web site lists the normal processing time for a passport as four to six weeks. Expediting a passport will cost an extra $60 over the basic price of $45.
Students seeking a passport for the first time must apply in person. The application form is available online at http://travel.state.gov/ passport, and it can be taken to the nearest U.S. Post Office along with proof of citizenship and identification. “China is emerging as a growing economic force, and computers are an integral part of the economy around the world,” Conrad said. The cost for the China trip is about $4,500 per student, Conrad said, but some scholarships are available. Mark Hagen, district coordinator of international programs, said students who sign up for a study-abroad program will be given a scholarship application. “The scholarships are competitive, and the maximum we offer is $750,” Hagen said. “Students will need to submit letters of recommendation, an essay and background information.” Students have a small window of time to prepare for the trip because approval was just
granted by the department chairs, the dean, the vice president of academic affairs and the international programs department, he said. “It’s a four-level review process,” Hagen said. “It can take a couple of days to a couple of weeks.” Conrad said the courses were announced just before spring break. Students with passports or in the process of obtaining passports should sign up by the end of April because the five-week program begins in May, Conrad said. The departure date is not set. “That will depend on the airfare available at the time,” Hagen said. “We are tentatively looking at a departure of May 25 and a return of July 2.” Study-abroad trips this summer also will include geography classes in Vietnam, business classes in Germany, history and humanities classes in Ireland and Japanese classes in Japan. For more information on study-abroad programs, call Hagen at 485-0082.
16 • April 9, 2010
Godin trial now in June
The Ranger Rennie Murrell
By Melody Mendoza It’s been a year and a half since Alan Godin was charged with firstdegree murder in the shooting of fellow Northeast Lakeview College Librarian Donald “Devin” Zimmerman. Godin remains in custody at the Bexar County Detention Center in lieu of a $250,000 bond. Repeated court dates have been postponed, the latest to June 11 while Godin undergoes a psychiatric evaluation. His attorney, John Combery, said, “The state has the opportunity to evaluate Godin’s mental health issues,” and intends to use the psychiatric evidence in court. “He’s ill. He’s fair, but ill,” Combery said. “It’s a serious issue.” Combery declined to authorize a jailhouse interview with Godin. The Ranger reported that Godin, who lost a full-time position to Zimmerman at Northeast Lakeview College, shot Zimmerman on Oct. 13, 2008, at its former location in the Albertsons facility on Pat Booker Road. Godin, wearing sunglasses, entered the library, approached Zimmerman, donned ear protection and began firing, according to eyewitnesses. Zimmerman, who died at the scene, was the only injury. After the shooting, Godin sat down and set his gun down to wait for the authorities.
Northeast Lakeview College committee is studying landscaping possibilities for an area surrounding an oak tree outside the performing arts building in a dedication to Librarian Donald “Devin” Zimmerman who was shot and killed at the former site at 8300 Pat Booker Road. He has been in the Bexar County Detention Center since then. A pre-trial hearing is set for June 11 to discuss last-minute motions or other issues, Combery said. The trial is set for June 14 before Judge Raymond Angelini in the 187th Criminal District Court.
The Ranger
April 9, 2010 • 17
Suicide prevention training planned By Brandy a. SantoS In 2006, the Metropolitan Health District reported 149 suicides in San Antonio. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention found that between 25 percent and 50 percent of people who kill themselves had previously attempted suicide. Those who have made attempts are at higher risk for actually succeeding. For these reasons, Lisa V. Black, coordinator of Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, or ASIST, has opened training to the community and this campus. Black, who is also coordinator of student development here, is a master trainer with 10 years of experience in training community members, the military and school districts. Although the training was planned before a 15-year-old girl in Northhampton, Mass., hanged herself after being bullied online at school, this case has focused national attention on suicide. Six of her classmates are facing charges ranging from statutory rape to criminal harassment. Apparently, no one recognized the behaviors that signal suicide. ASIST prevention has been around for nearly 30 years and was started by a group of professionals in social work, psychiatry and psychology to develop training programs for caregivers, teachers and counselors. There are more than 2,500 trained and registered local suicide intervention instructors. ASIST trainers have provided first aid suicide intervention in more than 500,000 communities. Everyone feels down at times, and it’s normal to have feelings of sadness; however, when thoughts of suicide come up during stressful events, it should not considered a normal response, Black said. The ASIST Web page states that in a given week, one in 20 people have had serious thoughts about suicide. Dr. Dawn McFadden, student assistance
program counselor, said, “Some of the reasons for suicide are feelings of lost loved ones, having trouble finding solutions to problems. They feel they don’t deserve the time to get help.”
For more information call 486-0347 or e-mail SACASIST@ gmail.com or lblack12@alamo.edu. If someone is having suicidal thoughts, there are some ways to help, McFadden said. Take the threat seriously, don’t handle issues alone, talk to professionals and find a support group. According to an ASIST handbook, there is evidence that suicide prevention programs can reduce rates of suicide in public schools and the work place. With built-in internal support groups, employees have the opportunity to vent their concerns with a trained suicide intervention specialist. ASIST trainees develop a working knowledge of suicide preven-
tion and skills in talking to people considering suicide, in addition to more teaching tools. This empowers them to successfully deal with suicidal situations encountered among students or employees. Black is planning an upcoming ASIST class, a two-day event from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The date has not been set. The first day deals with understanding and expressing thoughts of suicide and how people react to the thought of suicide. The second day, the focus is on the ASIST program and participants practice the new skills and techniques on each other.
Juan Carlos Campos
18 • April 9, 2010
Editorial
The Ranger Juan Carlos Campos
Student should speak at next board meeting Tyler K. Cleveland
At the March 23 board meeting during the citizens-to-be-heard session, Kevin Abrams, deaf support specialist sophomore, tried to express to the board of trustees his experiences as a gay deaf student. Abrams had prepared remarks but was not granted permission to speak. District 2 trustee Denver McClendon explained the board can limit speakers to one per group. Abrams, who is a member of Gay and Lesbian Association, was not speaking on behalf of that group; he was providing insight to another group, those who are gay and deaf. Board policy states, “Delegations of five or more persons shall appoint one person to present their views before
Chancellor Bruce Leslie addresses the board during its meeting March 23 at Killen.
the board.” Sadly, McClendon dismissed Abrams before learning this. How could he? He never gave Abrams a chance. The citizens-to-beheard segment is a chance for members of the community to share concerns with their elected board representatives, but to
completely deny someone a chance to speak is frankly cold. During heavily attended sessions, it might be understandable that mistakes will be made and someone overlooked. What’s not understandable is denying someone the right to speak without even determining the
focus of the remarks. Dr. Gene Sprague, District 6 trustee, told The Ranger being deaf is already covered in the district’s anti-discrimination policy. True, but Abrams was there to discuss the travails of being deaf and gay. To deny him the chance to speak during a citizensto-be-heard session shows a lack of concern for public comment. Time obviously was not an issue because the board spends hours in executive session and during meetings they discuss travel and gas reimbursements and laptops, when they could have easily spared a few minutes to hear Abrams. It’s an opportunity for them to hear the concerns of their constituents. That is part of the job, too.
Opinion
The Ranger
Cleanup thanks
Letter
After collecting 24 demerits, Fresh Taste Foods invited The Ranger behind the cafeteria door. Everything now appears to be in compliance, an excellent example of solving a problem quickly. The same week the story was published, Frederick Danzoy, district manager of food services, called maintenance and arranged repairs such as fixing a broken sink. The cafeteria service, owned by Selrico Inc., purchased thermometers for coolers and added an ice scoop caddy, among other corrections. Wow. Little around here is handled so swiftly and thoroughly. Thank you. This type of ownership of the problem and expedition of the solution are commendable.
Reporting called inaccurate Editor: It was recently brought to my attention that the article by Ms. Laura Garcia, “Chancellor questions faculty’s honesty,” Feb. 26, contained the statement that I said that the Faculty Senate leaders “… admitted that they made it up,” when referring to the assertions articulated in the resolutions relating to the chancellor’s performance. I never stated that the Faculty Senate leaders admitted they made up the claims in the documents nor did I call the faculty “liars.” I’ve listened to the tapes of our Super Senate meeting conversation, and it is clear what I did say was that the documents produced were full of falsehoods. While the research and data proves that many of the assertions made turned out to be false, these were the rumors and stories being circulated at that time. With no explanation to the contrary, I have to believe that the faculty leadership was just conveying these forward. I feel it necessary to go on the record to correct
April 9, 2010 • 19
this reporting inaccuracy as it can only serve to artificially escalate any perceived divide between the administration and faculty leadership. As chancellor, I believe that this relationship is a cornerstone of effective shared governance and must be preserved and protected. Playing my part, I cannot condone headlines or story lines that misrepresent my words or actions. In the spirit of journalistic integrity, please address this issue in your next edition.
Dr. Bruce Leslie Chancellor Editor’s note: The Ranger stands by its reporting. The story does not quote the chancellor as using the term “liar.” The label is inferred by the chancellor’s statement that faculty leaders produced documents full of falsehoods and lies. He made this statement in a Feb. 24 brief telephone interview, during which he also said faculty leaders admitted they made up a series of untruths.
20 • April 9, 2010
News
The Ranger
Adviser: Start ahead, get free money By Steffany Gutierrez Sarah Padilla, scholarship specialist in student financial services on campus, presented students helpful information dealing with obtaining and completing scholarship applications, scholarship resources, requesting recommendation letters, writing essays, interviewing, staying organized and internships. “Start ahead, no matter where you are going,” she said. The information session in Loftin Student Center featured information on how to look and apply for scholarships. Web sites recommended include the Alamo Colleges Student Financial Services (ACSFS): www.alamo.edu/district/schships/main/sfs.htm, SAC scholarships at www. alamo.edu/sac/scholar and the women’s center/ programs and services for women and nontraditional students at www.alamo.edu/sac/wc/htm/ scholarshipinformation.htm. The session also included advice on requesting recommendation letters such as giving information to the recommenders on what you need
and why you are applying for the scholarship so it will be easier for them to complete the letter. She gave tips on effectively interviewing such as being prepared for open-ended questions and re-reading submitted applications and staying informed with current events, as this might be asked on interviews. Students learned the difference between internal and external scholarships, how internal scholarships are directly awarded to the institution the student is attending and how this money its calculated on the need factor. External scholarships are usually directed to the student only and often do not affect the money awarded through financial aid. The process includes obtaining the application, submitting it, requesting letters of recommendation, writing essays/personal statements and interviewing. The speaker explained that because sometimes students don’t take the time to apply for scholarships sometimes millions of dollars do not get distributed. “Scholarships are free money you don’t have to
pay back,” Padilla explained. Some people get discouraged because their GPA is not very high or they don’t have the best grades, but when applying for scholarships, other factors are considered such as the person’s desire to succeed and the steps being performed to get there. The committees reviewing the applications also look at the classes the applicant is taking or if they work, receive internships or perform community service. Padilla said sometimes students feel scholarships are not worth their time because it does take time to apply, and the process is not automatic as is the Pell Grant, which students can receive once they apply for financial aid with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid available at www.fafsa.ed.gov or at the financial services office. She added that it doesn’t matter if you don’t get a scholarship the first time you apply. The important thing is to “be persistent, and don’t give up.” For information or to set up an appointment, call Sarah A. Padilla, scholarship specialist, at 4860963 or email spadilla8@alamo.edu.
22 • April 9, 2010
The Ranger
Red Cross consultant promotes volunteering By AlexAndriA MAxwell The American Red Cross acts as a bridge, delivering relief and volunteers after natural disasters, and offers caring citizens an opportunity to be part of a worldwide aid response, consultant Bill Sullivan said March 30. Red Cross consultant Sullivan discussed events that follow natural catastrophes at the March 30 Hot Potato forum in the Methodist Student Center. The forums are an opportunity for students to come together and discuss or debate personal viewpoints on important, or “hot potato,” issues, said the Rev. John Feagins, director of the Methodist Student Center. About 20 students heard Sullivan describe how the Red Cross works and received instructions on how to volunteer. Sullivan is a self-employed consultant who works with nonprofit and community organizations. His most recent project was setting up shelters in Dallas in the aftermath of Hurricanes
Katrina and Rita. Criminal justice sophomore Brittany Reed Sullivan described how he is directly said, “Just knowing that things occur out of involved in the logistics of nonprofit agencies nowhere, and there are people out there willgetting supplies and people out to disaster ing to work for free to help the situation — I areas. want to be that perDuring relief son.” efforts for Haiti, Reed said she had “Just knowing that … people there were 40 pallets no plans to volunteer out there willing to work for of blankets in a storbefore attending the free to help the situation — I age unit in Atlanta forum, but now that waiting to be distribshe knows how to join want to be that person.” uted to the needy. the process, she plans Brittany Reed Sullivan’s job was to. criminal justice sophomore to organize a way for Hot Potato forums those items and othare 12:15 p.m.ers to reach Haiti. 1:15 p.m. Tuesdays The organization was able to have the through April 27 in the Methodist Student pallets piggybacked onto a U.S. government Center, 102 Belknap Place. shipment of relief items that had extra space Forums are free and open to faculty, staff available. and students. Following each presentation, parSullivan encouraged students to volunteer. ticipants are offered a hot potato with all the He stressed that help is always needed and trimmings. wanted. For more information, call 733-1441.
Pulse
The Ranger
April 9, 2010 • 23
PAC students pull, press, flip way to strong man competition Scott J. Bajek
Truck pull is tons of fun for Strength Society. By Melody Mendoza Members of the Strength Society at Palo Alto College have been training in preparation for the fourth annual Strongest Man Competition on April 24. The competition is outside the convocation center and in the gym at the University of Texas at San Antonio on Loop 1604. In the strongest man competition, individuals compete in a variety of muscle-endurance obstacles. Kinesiology sophomore Adrian Frausto, 23, said the truck pull requires individuals to wear a harness connected to the bumper of a truck and pull it 60 yards. Kinesiology sophomore Jesus Lozano, 21, said, “I want to get the truck pull in under 24 seconds,” which was his time in last year’s competition. “I’m trying to break the record of 19 seconds.” The iron cross obstacle requires an individual to hold two 10-pound axes extended out like a cross for as long as they can, Coach Juan Aguilera explained.
Kinesiology sophomore Anthony Rodriguez dead lifts 315 pounds in the Palo Alto gym Wednesday training for an April 24 tournament.
The yoke squat means squatting 550 pounds as many times as possible in two minutes. Last year, Frausto set a record with 112 repetitions. Participants compete flipping 400-plus-pound tires on a course. There is a two-minute time limit.
Another contest is the bench press in which the participants vie for the highest number of repetitions at 225 pounds. They also participate in a fourman keg relay. The first contestant carries a 100-pound keg to a trailer. Each succeeding member carries a
heavier keg at weights of 120, 150 and 200 pounds each. Finally, they participate in a farmer walk, which requires carrying a 200-pound weight in each hand for 80 yards. For more information, call Aguilera at 486-3164.
24 in Olympic-style student boxing event today By Riley StevenS and tyleR K. Cleveland Four women and 20 male students have signed up for today’s boxing event at 11 a.m. in the mall, after 30 days training at two local gyms. Students have been divided into two teams: the red team training two hours daily at San Fernando Gym and the blue team at Luna’s Boxing 4 Fitness Community Center. Eight boxing officials from the South Texas Amateur Boxing Association will bring in the ring, set it up and tear it down. They also will provide headgear, gloves, tape and gauze, and a doctor for the weigh-in. Report time for the boxers is 8 a.m., and weigh-in is 9 a.m. The event starts at 11 a.m. The bouts will be three rounds, one minute each for
the women and two for the men. Education sophomore Nabel Hurtado said, “The experience has been good. It has taught me a lot about discipline. It has taught me how to be fast and aggressive.” Hurtado continued, “I’ve been getting a lot of stress out. I enjoy the workout, and I enjoy sweating. I’m excited; I’m not nervous at all.” Psychology sophomore Andrew Rohn said he had no boxing experience before he started training at the beginning of March. “The experience has been fun and tiring,” he said. “It ain’t easy to study when your whole body is aching.” Rohn quickly learned that throwing punches is only one part of being in the ring. “What I learned is that it hurts to get punched so you’ve got to move real fast, otherwise you’re going
to get punched a lot,” he said. “And you got to punch them harder than they punch you.” Rohn is anxious for his first match. “I feel that I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. I want to put on a show, and I want to give it all I got, and I have no regrets about it,” he said. “I hope it’s a good match and good event for everyone.” Not everyone is anticipating the event. Kinesiology Chair Bill Richardson said, “I feel like it’s kind of an odd offering. I just hope nobody gets hurt. It is a violent sport. It just seems kind of odd for student life to throw students into something like this.” He said in 35 years here, he does not recall any boxing activities. For more information, call student life activities specialist Carrie Hernandez at 486-0125.
24 • April 9, 2010
The Ranger Photos by Scott J. Bajek
Palo Alto business and kinesiology sophomore Steven Rocha pulls a 6,000-pound truck as he trains for an upcoming powerlifting event at UTSA. See related story on Page 23.
PAC program hopes to build next strongest man By Melody Mendoza Only a handful of people are up for flipping 600-pound tires or squatting 550 pounds more than 100 times just for fun. The Strength Society at Palo Alto College is one group which has endured painful workouts, yet has a passion for building strength. The society started in fall 2008 after weight training students began asking for tips on getting stronger, Juan Aguilera, coach and kinesiology instructor, said. “I saw a demand,” he said. “I have students coming from rural towns and who have a strong powerlifting background.” The Strength Society was formed for students to talk about strength and get ideas on how to get stronger, he explained. “I try to expose them to a variety of ways to get stronger, so they can find their niche or interest,” he said. The team participates in various workouts such as powerlifting, sports-specific training, strong-man lifting and old-time strong-man lifting. “I like more old-school lifting,” Aguilera said. “I have a stronger influence on the team in that area and show them lifts they might not find in books.”
improvements and keep going.” As if weight practice weren’t enough, business sophomore Steven Rocha, 23, swims at 7 a.m. “Going to the pool builds up stamina, helps me control my breathing and gives me muscle endurance,” he said. The team puts their hard work and training to the test at powerlifting meets and other comLiberal arts freshman Eric Ximenez of the Palo Alto powerpetitions, such as the fourth annual Strongest lifting team trains for a strong-man event at UTSA. Man Competition at UTSA April 24. During training, Aguilera said the most Training is the most critical thing when it important thing he does is show intensity. comes to building strength, so Aguilera focuses “I want them to be scared,” he said. “I want on periodization. them to feel like they’re standing at the edge of “For example, we might devote a cliff. I need them to get to that two weeks to bench, squat and spot.” deadlift, and then the next four He said this intensity builds the to six weeks, we do powerlifting,” tolerance the team needs to get Aguilera said. stronger. The team endures two-hour Powerlifting meets require difworkouts, five days a week, in ferent workouts than for events like www.theranger.org which they go through cardiovasthe strongest man competition. Go online for the complete version of the story and cular exercise, such as running Frausto said, “We go from musphoto slideshow. and muscle-building exercises, cle endurance to muscle strength.” like swinging kettle bells. Aguilera said that if the team is Kinesiology sophomore Adrian Frausto, 23, training for a powerlifting meet, they set up the said he’s addicted to it. environment like it would be at the actual meet, “You’d have to be a little crazy to keep com- so the lifters won’t get nervous when they go up ing back,” he said, “but I notice the gain and to attempt a lift.