The Ranger Oct. 11, 2013

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Serving San Antonio College since 1926

A forum of free voices

Volume 88 Issue 5 • Oct. 11, 2013

210-486-1773 • Single copies free

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Heads up Watergate journalists pair up at Trinity Best known for their investigative reporting of the Watergate break-in that led to the resignation of a president, journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, are speaking at Trinity University’s Distinguished Lecture Series.

The lecture is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29 in Laurie Auditorium.

The lecture is free but requires a ticket for admission. Tickets are available 10 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday at the Laurie Auditorium box office at the university beginning Oct. 21. There is a limit of two tickets per person.

On June 17, 1972, a breakin occurred at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in the Watergate complex in Washington, D.C. President Richard Nixon attempted to cover up the event and his administration’s involvement. When evidence mounted confirming his involvement in a cover-up, Nixon resigned from his presidency Aug. 9, 1974.

“Woodward and Bernstein were known as pioneering journalists whose dogged pursuit of the truth inspired an entire generation of investigative journalists. Their work changed the relationships of presidents and journalists forever,” Sharon Jones Schweitzer, assistant vice president for external relations at the university said.

For more information, visit www. trinity.edu or call 210-999-8406.

Cassandra M. Rodriguez

Celebrate freedom of speech during Chalk Day In appreciation of the right to free speech guaranteed in the First Amendment as part of National Newspaper Week, this college will celebrate with Chalk Day from noon-2 p.m. today.

Grab a piece of chalk and make your mark on the brick walkways of the mall between Loftin Student Center and chemistry and geology.

The college community is welcome to use the walkways — but not the sides of buildings — as their canvas and write or draw what they wish to express.

Although profanity is protected under the First Amendment, its use on walkways is not encouraged. As an institution of higher education, vocabularies are expected to be richer.

The free event is sponsored by this college’s student chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists and The Ranger staff.

For more information, call The Ranger newsroom at 210-486-1773.

Katherine Garcia

Robert Trejo, founder of Zoomagination, shows off Sienna, a two-toed sloth — among the slowest animals on Earth — during SACtacular Oct. 4. Marie Sullins

Exotic animals, food and live music highlight blockparty SACtacular block party celebrates the college’s role in the community.

By Patricia McGlamory

pmcglamory@student.alamo.edu

Remember growing up with family block parties, the smell of popcorn and cozying up to a good movie?

SACtacular, a free evening of family fun, invited the college community and neighbors to do just that Oct 4.

Plans are already in the making for next year, Dr. Alice Johnson, dean of learning resources, said today.

Live music by Colao filled the air in the mall, while a mother danced with her young daughter and an array of people relaxed in chairs or stopped

to rest along the stone walls.

Families stopped to pose for photos in front of lowrider cars and enjoy treats sold by about 10 student clubs.

The evening ended with a free movie, “Despicable Me 2,” in the Fiesta Room of Loftin Student Center, drawing a crowd leaving standing room only in a room designed for a maximum capacity of 218 people.

SACtacular is the second block party this college has thrown.

The first celebrated the college’s 85th anniversary in 2011and drew an estimated crowd of 800 to 1,000.

This year, SACtacular drew an estimated crowd of 2,000, Martha Castro, learning resources secretary, said Wednesday.

The event was open to the public in the mall and

‘West Side Story’ actress to discuss Hispanic heritage Moreno to reflect on her accomplishments and role promoting diabetes awareness.

By T. L. Hupfer

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Award-winning, groundbreaking, record-setting actress Rita Moreno will lecture as the last event of Hispanic Heritage Month at this college at 7 p.m.

Thursday in the auditorium of McAllister Fine Arts Center.

A free screening of the 1961 film “West Side Story” starring Moreno will be open to the public at 7 p.m. Monday in McAllister on the auditorium’s new big screen.

Moreno’s career started in her teen years when she first appeared in “A Medal for Benny” in 1945. She is best known from her roles in the Broadway and movie versions of “West Side Story,” the PBS children’s series “The Electric Company” and the television series “Oz.”

She is the first and only Hispanic actress to receive an Oscar, an Emmy, a Grammy, a Golden Globe and a Tony.

She is the national spokesperson for The Heart of Diabetes, a program developed by the American Heart Association. She travels nationwide educating audiences about diabetes and its high risk in the Hispanic population.

Diabetes became a big issue for her when she lost her mother and sister-in-law to complications from Type 2 diabetes.

Moreno has been the face for Hispanic heritage since she became a household name.

Her roles have opened doors for minorities and she has proved time and again that her

See MORENO Page 4

along the brick walkway between Nail Technical and Chance Academic centers.

The purpose of SACtacular is outreach, President Robert Zeigler said Sept. 25, calling it a “neighborhood event” to celebrate good relationships.

The event allows the college to invite the community “to see what we’ve got and what we’re doing,” Johnson said Sept. 16.

Zyanya Wilke brought her family of four to the block party for a fun evening. Wilke, who lives near SeaWorld San Antonio on the city’s Northwest Side, said she heard of SACtacular through a friend employed at this college.

She said her family would come to this event again because, “there are not a lot of family activities in town,” so when there is something fun and

See BLOCK, Page 4

College revamps developmental classes

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

This college will introduce a combined reading and writing course in the spring for students to transition from developmental to college-level classes.

Students will be able to take one class, INRW 0420, Integrated Reading and Writing, instead of up to two developmental English classes and three developmental reading classes.

This is part of the district’s revamping of developmental education in reading and writing, and math.

Incoming students will be divided into AlamoReady for those testing at grades nine through 12, and AlamoPrep for students testing at eighth grade and below, according to a presentation by Dr. Lisa Alcorta, director of developmental education and academic success, to the board of trustees Aug. 13.

Along with the INRW course, developmental math will undergo changes starting in summer 2014.

The Texas Success Initiative assessment test will be administered to decide who needs the developmental class.

Aug. 26, the TSI assessment replaced Accuplacer, Texas Higher Education Assessment, Compass and Asset tests.

“I am optimistic,” English Chair Mike Burton said. “However, the wrinkle is that every student who tests below a college level must take an English refresher — “eight hours for students who test in the upper level and 16 hours for students who test in the lower level.”

Burton said the problem is most students are unaware this is mandatory and that they must take it a semester before they enroll in the INRW class. Burton said students come in ready to take the INRW and must wait a semester to allow them time to first take the refresher.

In the refresher, students will spend eight to 16 hours in the English lab with a full-time or adjunct professor. The refresher is free and there is no textbook.

The TSI assessment test will place students in the appropriate course or refresher based on its results.

If students test at a college-level, they will be able to enroll in ENGL 1301, English Composition 1. Students scoring between grades nine-12 will be required to take the eight-hour refresher course.

The course will be offered MondayThursday for two hours each day, or Saturday with four hours in the morning

See DEVELOPMENTAL, Page 4

People

2 • Oct. 11, 2013

www.theranger.org/people

NVC game ‘Time Glitch’ wins third in Captivate competition Student-designed 3D game features a female scientist time traveler.

By Jahna Lacey

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

“Time Glitch,” a 3D, third-person shooter adventure video game created by 15 students at Northwest Vista College, won third place in the student media competition at the Captivate Conference Oct. 6 in the Palmer Center in Austin.

“Time Glitch” features a female scientist, Professor Alexis Stunden, who works as a product tester for a company called Chrono Co. that makes time-manipulating devices such as time machines.

Stunden is working on and testing a product called a time gun. The protagonist tests the time gun prototype and decides it is too dangerous to use so she scraps the project.

Just as the protagonist makes her decision, time gets disrupted and tangled in a paradox in which ancient creatures, such as dinosaurs, and

robots from the future exist simultaneously.

As chaos ensues, Stunden must fix the contraption to repair time.

“Half of the competition was our product and the other half was to market our product,” 3-D animation sophomore Victoria Sertich said.

The competitors were judged on how well they worked as a team at their booth and the outreach methods used to advertise their product. Time Glitch was available to play at the booth.

Game production sophomore Sarah Richmond said students carpooled to Austin every day during the conference to staff the booth. “We had to promote our game and work as a team to get the highest scoring game at the competition in order to win the grand prize of $5,000, the honor of winning and, of course, the

bullet point on our résumés, saying ‘Captivate Conference winner.’”

The first place winner received $5,000, second place received $2,500, and third place received $1,000.

During the Electronic Entertainment Expo College Game Competition June 11-13 in Los Angeles, NVC students were among five finalists to be recognized as best student talent in video game development.

The other universities to compete at E3 were Brigham Young University, Savannah College of Art and Design, University of Chicago and University of Wisconsin-Stout.

The NVC students in the E3 competition were 3-D animation sophomores Sertich, Joe Guerra, Paul Scofield, Amber Gregerson, Rachel Ward, Laurencio Baland, Cori Cunningham, and

Kyle Reynolds; game production sophomores Richmond, Selinda Garcia, Chris Hathaway and Willie Corona; and gaming program sophomores Preston Elmore and John Priest.

“The E3 convention was great,” Sertich said.

“It was such a surprise that our project would take us this far. It was unreal. We had our own booth next to the other finalists. People from around the world would come and play our game and they liked it.”

Sertich said “Time Glitch” was made for a one-semester game simulation class. She said because of the E3 deadline, she and her classmates had to finish the game three weeks earlier than the class deadline.

For more information about the Captivate Conference, visit http://captivateconference. com/compete/student-multimedia-projectcompetition/.

For more information on game development at Northwest Vista, visit www.alamo.edu/nvc/ academics/departments/game-developmentprogramming/.

Johnathan Tenorio prays with Ashley Johnson from Metro Fire Missions Base Wednesday in the mall south of Gonzales Hall. Members of the mission prayed for the concerns of students who stopped by their table.

Monica Lamadrid

Music Coordinator Alice Gomez plays drums at the music department’s Latin Jazz Combo performance Tuesday in McAllister auditorium. The set included “Sabor,” “Jungle Fever,” “Homecookin’” and “Batman” in the spirit of Halloween. A faculty recital is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in McAllister. Call 210-486-0255. Casey Alcala

Engineering sophomore Santana Montoya and psychology freshman Emily Flores-Gonzalez, members of the Asian Pop Society, slowly emerge from the floor while performing the dance “Fashion Monster”

in the dance studio in Candler. Behind the pair are business administration freshman Josh Williams and art freshman TyTanisha Zacharie.

Marina Garcia Choir director Cindy Sanchez sings “Awake, Sweet Love” while music students play the guitar Wednesday in the music hall annex on the Bennett Estate. They are rehearsing for “Music of the Renaissance” at 1 p.m. today in the auditorium of McAllister. Raquel Estrada

News

www.theranger.org/news

Oct. 11, 2013 • 3

Zeigler addresses tutoring cuts, stagnant salaries

By Emily Rodriguez

erodriguez734@student.alamo.edu

A delay in available funds led to a shortage of tutors at the beginning of this semester, President Robert Zeigler said during an open forum Wednesday in Loftin Student Center.

Zeigler and the college Executive team answered questions from the crowd and email. Students and employees asked for ways disability access will be improved, reasons behind a shortage of tutors and lab hours and the lack of a cost-of-living raise for employees.

The BioSpot, the writing center, math lab and the fourth floor of Moody have reduced services because of a lack of staff. “We were in the process in getting tutors hired so they would be ready for the beginning of the semester,” he said. “It’s not that we didn’t have funding, but the funding coming to us was slower as it has been to come to pass.”

He referred to district releasing funds in the 2013-14 budget. Zeigler said budget constraints affect the

number of tutors and how long labs can stay open.

The crowd applauded a question of why faculty and staff have not received a pay raise while administrators get a raise every year.

“The basic premise of the question is wrong,” Zeigler said. “Raises, when there is a raise, are for faculty, staff and administrators. Everyone gets the same raise; we don’t get more. If it is a percentage raise, faculty are on a different pay scale. I have never gotten a raise when other people haven’t.”

His response garnered groans and eye rolls from the crowd of about 40.

Another questioned how the district can afford leadership training, but not a raise. Zeigler said he wants a cost-of-living raise, but decreases in state funding has prevented it. He said tuition has gone up to make up the deficit, but to keep classes affordable, tuition has to stay low.

“I don’t know that it has been several years that staff have seen a raise, but I’m sympathetic to the con-

cern,” he said. “Something you need to remember about pay raises is that it is not a one-time cost. The cost for training is usually a one-time cost.”

Questions were raised about the functionality of the ACES information portal and Canvas learning management system that have prevented students from accessing course materials or online classes.

“It is a new system and we are experiencing some growing pains with it,” Dr. Robert Vela, vice president for student and academic success, said. “Once we get through the first round of this, we are expecting that every course throughout the college will have a much easier way to access the work whether (students) are here or away.”

On another topic, Zeigler said parking decals are no longer being mailed. Ticketing began Oct. 2 and those who were waiting on the permit had their parking tickets waived.

Students who have not received a permit can pick it up in the business office; faculty must go to the police

office at this college.

In another area, long processing times in veterans affairs was a concern Zeigler addressed. Paperwork for benefits is backed up to July, so benefits may wait until December.

Vela attributed the delay to the doubling of veterans here and the Oct. 1 government shutdown. The VA office is seeking an additional employee and has applied for a grant to hire a full-time counselor. Overtime pay is available with Veterans Affairs certification.

On another topic, administrators in construction meetings have been identifying ways to make campus more accessible, Zeigler said.

The district is taking bids for a canopy over a ramp at the southwest corner of Moody Learning Center.

Adding canopies to connect all buildings has been discussed. “You could go from building to building as opposed to the interior of the college,” Vela said. “There’s a study being done to see what that would look like and how much that would cost.”

Dr. Robert Zeigler says everyone needs to be wise enough to appreciate the history of the college and accept the pluses and minuses. Marie Sullins Other concerns are uneven and raised sidewalks, which impede mobility. Zeigler said drought has caused shifting in the ground. Problem areas should be reported to David Mrizek, vice president of college services.

Students report problems with Alamo cash cards

Ready for the future?

President says SGA is not a watchdog.

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Many students have had problems with the Alamo cash card this fall, psychology sophomore April Weaver said Monday at the Student Government Association meeting.

Weaver said she knows students who never received a refund before classes started, and one woman who received hers two weeks ago.

“I don’t have my books on time because I’m waiting on the cash card,” she said.

James “Tank” Lowe, music business sopho-

transcript be sent to the University of Texas at San Antonio, the university has not received it.

He requested it be sent the week of Aug. 26, but after returning to the business office the week of Sept.

30, he was told there was no record of his request.

Three meetings in a row included students expressing frustration about issues SGA is unable to impact.

Hubbard said a college administrator will attend the next meeting Oct. 14 to speak about transferring, advising and ordering transcripts.

Public relations sophomore Rene Orozco said he doesn’t think it is SGA’s job

to fix the problems; SGA is a tool for voicing opinion.

“We’re not the ones getting salaries for doing their jobs,” Orozco said. “What I’m seeing here is an issue with employees who need to start doing their job … there is lack of communication, lack of technical support.”

Hubbard said, “SGA is not a watchdog group; it’s not supposed to be a watchdog group.”

Orozco said, “We can only talk so much. After that, there needs to be some form of escalation.”

The next SGA meeting will be at noon Monday in the craft room of Loftin Student Center.

study

Study groups require focus Study groups offer better understanding of course material.

By Cory D. Hill

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

A study group can improve a student’s grade and overall understanding of class material when conducted properly.

Dehlia Wallis, student development coordinator, said “We all have different learning styles and for some people what happens in the classroom isn’t always the teaching style that best matches up with their learning style.”

Learning styles are broken up into three main categories.

Auditory learners retain information better through listening to explanations as opposed to reading them.

Visual learners grasp information through things

like diagrams, charts, graphs and reading.

Kinesthetic learners prefer to use a “hands-on” approach.

Activities and writing things down are preferred over sitting still in a classroom.

“So in a study group, the students can help enhance everyone’s individual learning style,” Wallis said. “In class, you can’t slow down all the time for one or two students.

Study groups move at the pace of the students in the study group.”

There are also potential negative aspects to study groups.

Wallis said to have an effective study group, participants must have self-discipline to stay on task.

“The negative aspect could be not staying on topic, but there are ways around that.”

By Kathya Anguiano The transfer and career center invites students to a transfer fair 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday in the Fiesta Room of Loftin Student Center.

More than 30 universities are providing admissions, degree and financial information at the event, including the University of Texas at San Antonio, University of Texas at Austin, University of the Incarnate Word, Texas Tech University and Texas State University.

Others include Texas A&M University-College Station, Texas A&M University-San Antonio, St. Mary’s University, Our Lady of the Lake University, Angelo Sate University, University of Houston, and University of Texas Health Science Center School of Nursing.

Wallis suggests roles be assigned to members of the study group to help set and keep on track with the group’s goals.

“You’re our leader today or timekeeper, you know. If we are not on to the next problem in 15 minutes, bring us together,” Wallis said.

“Sometimes, that helps cause we’re all people. We like to get together and it’s easy to wander off.”

Wallis said people in study groups tend to have higher test grades and usually have better attendance.

“They check and know what is going on with each other a little bit better. It’s really nice, and they help each other out.”

For more information on study groups, call Wallis 210486-0776 or email dstrong2@ alamo.edu.

Door prizes will be offered including portfolios, jump drives, T-shirts, cups and other donated items.

Counselor Rosa Maria Gonzalez encourages students to take notes or get a business card from their desired university representative and contact them later to schedule an appointment for more information.

The transfer fair is an opportunity for students to see which universities offer which majors and learn about admissions requirements, scholarships and housing information, she said.

For more information, call the transfer center at 210-4860864. Or visit the website http:// w w w. a l a m o. e d u / m a i n w i d e . aspx?id=9543.

Boundaries reduce stress

living

By T.L. Hupfer

more, explained a problem he encountered. “Their help line is misleading and doesn’t answer questions, and then tells people to hang up,” he said.

Alamo Colleges began using the card in summer 2012.

Since then, student refunds have been distributed through the card or direct deposit.

SGA President Andrew Hubbard, business administration freshman, said he will ask college administrators before taking the concerns to district officials.

CJ Riley, international business management sophomore, said that a month after requesting his

More than 30 universities will attend transfer fair.

By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Stress is on the rise for many students this time of year because of midterms.

Student development Professor Suzanna Borawski said it is common for students to be stressed during important exam periods.

Stress is the body’s automatic response to physical and mental demands placed on it.

Borawski said moderate levels of stress might improve performance and efficiency.

When stress is seen as a positive force rather than a negative one, some stress can be a positive, Borawski said.

“This is my body’s natural response to a challenge and my body is preparing for it,” she said. “That adrenaline that’s being released is giving me that energy to face whatever challenge I need to face.”

Too much stress, however, can cause an unproductive anxiety level.

Being able to identify the source of stress can help minimize its effect.

Work, school, finances or relationships can cause stress, she said.

Deep breathing helps calm people psychologically and physiologically, thus reducing

stress levels, Borawski said.

It is also important to have a good support network, such as friends, family, peers, professors and tutors.

It is important to know when to ask for help, she said.

Because many students have family responsibilities in addition to schoolwork, setting personal boundaries can help reduce stress.

Students should be able to say “no” to family and friends when they need to study.

Borawski said, “It’s OK to say no and set those good boundaries.”

Another way to reduce stress is through exercise because physical movement helps release adrenaline, and meditation or prayer will help focus the mind.

“Finding a hobby that enriches your soul and makes you happy can also help to recharge those batteries,” Borawski said.

But if one’s stress is chronic and causing anxiety, mood swings or depression, it needs to be addressed by a professional.

This college offers students free counseling sessions. Set appointments in the Balditt Counseling Complex on the first floor of Moody Learning Center.

News

4 • Oct. 11, 2013

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Support specialist emphasizes room for improvement SLAC lab offers tutors, computers and test proctoring.

By Justin Rodriguez sac-ranger@alamo.edu

The newly remodeled student learning assistance center on the seventh floor of Moody Learning Center needs more tutors and longer tutoring sessions, say students and some workers there.

Known as the SLAC lab, it provides computers, tutoring and testing services.

The SLAC lab has about 200 computers, and 69 computers are in an open area available for students on a walk-in basis.

Student success specialist Lisa Bermes said there is a shortage of tutors available for subjects such as psychology, math, chemistry, government, accounting and history.

There are seven tutors in the lab, but distance-learning specialist Gerald Manahan says an eighth is starting next week.

The number of tutors available ranged from 24-30, but over the past four or five years, the total has twice been cut in half. No positions are open for tutors, he said.

Bermes said there is a large array of subjects to cover, tutors are limited and sessions are not as long as they

should be.

“We need more time,” she said.

Tutoring sessions in the SLAC lab are 30 minutes for most students and one hour for students registered with disability support services.

“Students don’t have to make an appointment, but it is recommended because the tutors could all be booked,” Manahan said.

Kinesiology sophomore Dean Nwokey said he frequents the lab to do homework and check email.

“It’s a lot about being in class,” Nwokey said.

Nwokey said he previously visited math labs in McCreless and could walk in with no appointment and “never had to worry about not having enough time.”

Nwokey said he doubts 30 minutes is long enough, recommending at least three sessions.

Teachers stress tutoring and getting help toward midterms and the end of the semester, especially in the science classes, Nwokey added.

Marketing sophomore Olga Balderas believes some of the labs may be overbooked, and, therefore, cannot accommodate students in the best way possible.

Balderas said she came to the SLAC lab because she did not get enough help in the English writing lab in Room 118 of Gonzales Hall on

Dental assisting sophomores Lynn Thi Huynh and Duyen Nguyen help each other write research papers in the SLAC lab on the seventh floor of Moody. Marina Garcia the topic she was writing about.

“We all need help,” Balderas said.

Hiring extra tutors during midterms or finals is another idea Balderas suggested.

In addition to hiring more tutors, Balderas stressed, “The teachers should be willing to help the students.”

Balderas has considered hiring an outside tutor to meet her schedule and homework requirements.

Bermes noted that while students must have an appointment, the sessions are not long enough to adequately receive tutoring and tips in the lab.

She said a lot of services are get-

ting left out.

Tutors are generally required to have A’s and B’s to be qualified in subjects they can tutor, Bermes said.

Students who want to become tutors can go online and apply through the district’s PeopleLink program.

Manahan says that most tutors are students who have finished classes at this college and have transferred to other colleges or universities.

Tutors are paid for a 19-hour week.

Recently, the lab has hired four new work-stud students to help with the front desk, answering questions and proctoring tests.

Manahan says they are still waiting on a couple of them to be cleared to start work.

“Services here benefit every student, whether they have a 2.0 or a 4.0 GPA,” Bermes said.

Test proctoring services are available 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. MondayThursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday.

Computer services at the SLAC lab are offered 8 a.m.-8 p.m. MondayThursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, call the SLAC lab at 210-486-0165.

Michael Peters contributed to this story.

Mega lab offers multiple systems, platforms Lab has 57 virtual desktops, 35 PCs, 21 Mac computers and three iPads available for use.

By Henry M. Martinez Jr. sac-ranger@alamo.edu

While the student mega lab, or mega lab, offers an assortment of student ready computer equipment, what it lacks is labor.

Two part-time workers assist lab Coordinator Melinda Lopez.

The lab has 57 virtual desktops, 35 PCs, 21 Mac computers and three iPads. Virtual desktops are systems connected to a server rather

DEVELOPMENTAL from Page 1 and four hours in the afternoon.

Students scoring grade eight or below will be required to take a 16-hour refresher.

The schedule will be the same as it is for the eight-hour refresher course but over two weeks instead of one.

Upon completion of those hours, students are evaluated and the professor will decide whether the student is ready for ENGL 1301, INRW 0420 or INRW 0305.

A student who tests slightly below college-ready can be placed in an ENGL 1301 “readyset-go course,” Burton said.

The ready-set-go program, begun in spring 2012, is the same as a regular ENGL 1301, but is a four-hour course instead of three.

Burton said students scoring slightly below college-ready benefit from the extra hour in class because the continued work in a classroom is better than trying to complete all their writing assignments outside of class.

Burton said 90 percent of students taking the ready-set-go program pass ENGL 1301.

than an individual computer system.

Lopez said the center gets about 200 or more students throughout the day.

She said there have been several times when she is greeted in the morning with a line ready for her to open the doors.

Lopez said she has even gotten to a point that when she enters the elevator in Moody with a student, she can simply ask, “Mega lab?”

The student almost certainly nods.

The lab is an open access computer lab with PC and Mac workstations and outlets so students can bring personal devices and use the space.

This new developmental system combining reading and writing is designed to save a student time and money, he said.

In the first two weeks of this semester, nearly 100 students each week took the new TSI. Seventy percent of these students tested below college level in English and reading, he said.

The TSI assessment tests students in a similar manner as the Accuplacer. The English faculty consider the TSI to be an updated version of the Accuplacer.

Burton said the refresher is a way of weeding out students who simply are not good at testing and saving them time.

The problem, he said, is many students are up to par with college-level classes, but they get lost in the technical side of testing.

While this is not a foolproof system, the English and reading department has high hopes that it will help better place students where they belong, he said.

For more information, call the English and reading department at 210-486-0950.

Carlos Ferrand contributed to the story.

Architecture sophomore Benjamin Locher said, “They have Macs. It’s awesome.”

Locher said that when he goes, it’s usually for study groups and homework. “I usually go with at least two people but usually end up with like three or four,” he said.

To use the equipment, students must have a Banner ID. Upon walking in, students see two “log-in” stations in the form of iPads where they enter a Banner ID. Then the student can choose a workstation.

Since the virtual desktops aren’t connected to an individual system, this doesn’t allow peo-

ple to save work to the desktop.

This means students need their own flash drive to save work.

Printing is 10 cents for black and white copies and 50 cents for color copies.

The lab also can help with online course support, admission and registration and multimedia software support.

No food or drinks are allowed in the lab.

The mega lab is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday in Room 502 of Moody Learning Center.

For more information, call 210-486-0160 or visit http://www.alamo.edu/sac/megacomputerlab/.

MORENO from Page 1

Business administration sophomore Damaris Garcia and her 7-year-old sister, Wanda Perez, race in the bungee jump at SACtacular Oct. 4. Ana Cano

BLOCK from Page 1 clean, we like to come to it. “I see a lot of people from the community, not the school.”

Art freshman Ann Marie Rivas, who attended with four family members, said the event was “lively” and a lot of fun. Rivas said her nephew played in the basketball area. She visited the ceramic egg crafts area, food booths and cafeteria.

Lisa Black is a student development instructor and adviser for Odyssey of the Mind student club.

She said members feel privileged

to be a club and she talks to the students about “how important it is to show respect and support our school” and to represent San Antonio College. “Not everybody gets to come to college, and not everybody gets to do these things,” Black said.

Black and eight students from Odyssey of the Mind sold pickles and chopped cucumbers at the block party. This is the first time the members of the Odyssey of the Mind club has done a food event like this, Black said. “I think they learned a lot, and it is just good for them to engage.”

ethnicity will not stop her. She has appeared in more than 30 television shows and 50 films.

Moreno will receive the 2013 Life Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild for her career and humanitarian accomplishments. This will be presented live on networks TNT and TBS at 7 p.m. Jan. 18 at the 20th annual SAG awards show.

She also became a New York Times bestselling author with her autobiography, “Rita Moreno: A Memoir,” published in March. The book will be for sale in the lobby before the show.

At “An Evening with Rita Moreno,” she will discuss her Hispanic heritage, her book and her career and ways she has over come obstacles involving her ethnicity.

Theater Coordinator Paula Rodriguez said Moreno speaking at this college is exciting.

“She’s a living legend; she’s one of the best. She’s worked with everybody, and everybody’s worked with her.”

The event is sponsored by the Fine Arts and Cultural Events Series and is free to the public. The auditorium will open at 6:30 p.m. Seats are available on a firstcome, first-served basis.

For more information, call 210-486-0901.

News ‘7 Habits’ focuses on an individual’s development www.theranger.org/news

Oct. 11, 2013 • 5

By Carlos Ferrand

cferrand@student.alamo.edu

The Alamo Colleges’ mission is to have every employee and eventually all students trained in the “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”.

During a phone interview Oct. 3, Chancellor Bruce Leslie said the skills students can acquire from “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” training will benefit them as students and as employees.

Stephen R. Covey published his self-help book in 1989, and stephencovey.com states more than 25 million copies have been sold.

“7 Habits” has been translated into 40 different languages, and in 2002 Forbes magazine listed the book as one of the top 10 most influential management books ever.

Stephen R. Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” is a seven-week program.

According to the book, after seven weeks the habits will become entrenched. Each week

participants focus on a different habit.

The first three habits deal with personal development and helping individuals.

Darryl Nettles, associate director for student success at Northwest Vista College, said people need to have their own house in order.

Nettles supports the book and facilitates a fourhour seminar for students using “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective College Students” model.

It is essential to complete the first three habits before moving on, he said. “If you don’t help yourself, how can you help others?”

Habits 4-6, focus on relationship development and how to be more effective as leaders.

The book highlights the importance of health and its role in being effective.

Nettles said that Habit 7 is the most important because it makes the prior habits possible.

“You are the most important person in your life,” he said.

Nettles said the information in the book truly helps individuals with relationship and personal development.

Leslie said the goal for students will be to understand the material and then live it.

In August, the Alamo Colleges paid $689,000 for the intellectual rights of “7 Habits.”

Habit 1 Be proactive Take responsibility by being proactive rather than reactive.

Habit 2 Begin with the end in mind Create things twice, first in the mind, then in the real world. Mental creations will be followed by physical.

Habit 3 Put first things first Create a balanced schedule. Do not over extend yourself. Realize saying “no” is important when setting priorities.

Habit 4 Think win-win Look at life not just as a competition, but as a cooperative victory.

Habit 5 Seek first to understand, then to be understood Listen to understand, instead of listening to reply.

Habit 6 Synergize Be open-minded and include every team member’s experiences to create solutions.

Habit 7 Sharpen the Saw Focus on physical, mental, spiritual and social health.

Board to vote on $105K investment consultant renewal

By Carlos Ferrand

cferrand@student.alamo.edu

The Audit, Budget and Finance Committee of the Alamo Colleges board of trustees on Tuesday recommended awarding an estimated $105,000 renewal contract to an investment advisory firm, First Southwest Asset Management Inc. The recommendation goes to the full board at 6 p.m. Oct. 22 in Room 101 of Killen Center, 201 W. Sheridan.

First Southwest became the district’s investment adviser since 2008, providing consultation and evaluation of investment opportunities of surplus operating funds.

The current portfolio is about $150 million. There are no changes from the previous contract.

First Southwest is a diversified investment bank headquartered in Dallas. The contract guarantees First Southwest a flat fee of $40,000 with up to $65,000 more if consulting services are required for bond proceeds based on a $500 million portfolio.

Because the investment amount would increase, the firm would need to increase its services. In a Wednesday phone interview, district Treasurer Tracey Bedwell said no major bond proceeds are expected.

Alamo Colleges earned $100,000-

$200,000 on investment opportunities in fiscal year 2013, she said.

Diane Snyder, vice chancellor for finance and administration, said, “They have been doing a great job for us. We did go test the market and we are coming back recommending that we re-engage.”

The purchase and contract administration department advertised for competitive sealed proposals in the San Antonio Express-News and La Prensa and sent out 120 notices to potential bidders.

Nine bids were received and three were disqualified for not providing verification of registration with the

Vice Chancellor Diane Snyder recommends renewal with First Southwest Asset Management Inc. Daniel Arguelles Texas State Securities Board.

Of the nine bids, First Southwest’s bid of $105,000 was the second lowest behind Patterson Capital

Management’s bid of $76,000.

The highest bid was $460,000 from Wells Capital Management.

First Southwest was ranked No.1 overall because of quality of service.

Barclays Capital, Citigroup Global Markets and Wells Fargo Securities are three of 30 approved brokers that First Southwest uses when investing.

According to the minute order, First Southwest services include “the execution of securities purchases and sales, reporting and reviewing of Alamo Colleges investment policies and procedures for compliance with the public funds investment act governed by Texas Government code.”

Ne

6 • www.theranger.org/premiere

Texas HB2 will make abortions scarce, create h

By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Mara Posada, director of communications for Planned Parenthood Trust of South Texas, said most of their clients are trying to avoid unintended pregnancies and stay healthy.

Posada spoke at this college Sept.

24 as part of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Posada said because 71 percent of Planned Parenthood’s patients in San Antonio are Hispanic, most marketing is geared toward them.

Planned Parenthood began in 1939 as the Maternal Health Center.

The name changed in 1944 to Planned Parenthood.

Planned Parenthood, which served 5,240 patients in 1953, was open to women of all economic classes, races and ethnic backgrounds, something unusual for the time.

In 1973, Roe v. Wade was upheld and abortion was legalized, leading to protests, bombings and violence at abortion clinics in the 1990s.

The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act was passed in 1994 to protect women from being blocked from entering clinics.

Planned Parenthood of Texas now oversees eight clinics: six in San Antonio, one in Harlingen and one in Brownsville, serving 27,000 patients annually.

Protests continued to the present.

Planned Parenthood spreads awareness to lawmakers of the widespread support for access to all health care, family planning and the right to reproductive choices.

Pro-abortion rights advocates protest HB2 as anti-abortion supporters pass them in the Capitol in Austin July 12. AccuNet/AP In 2011, Texas Senate Bill 16 was passed, requiring women to be shown a sonogram of the fetus 24 hours before an abortion. The heartbeat must be made audible if there is one present, Posada said.

Planned Parenthood always provides sonograms because it determines the baby’s gestational age, Posada said.

Planned Parenthood does not agree with Texas House Bill 2, passed in July because it attacks abortion care, Posada said.

Three parts of Texas HB2 go into effect Oct. 29: abortions are banned at 20 weeks, physicians who provide abortions will need hospital privileges within 30 miles and off-label use of drugs will be prohibited.

According to WebMD, off-label use is medication being used in a manner not specified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Planned Parenthood does not agree with the hospital privileges requirement either, Posada said.

On the surface, it seems important

for doctors to have hospital privileges, she said.

Doctors get hospital privileges if they admit a certain number of patients every year to that hospital.

Abortion is a simple, safe procedure, Posada said. Physicians do not regularly admit people to hospitals because there aren’t many complications.

If the hospital is affiliated with a religious organization, the hospital may not grant privileges to doctors who perform abortions.

Posada said the Texas Hospital Association is also against Texas HB2 because they don’t think it’s necessary for physicians to have hospital privileges.

Posada thinks the bill is not making abortions safer.

“Instead of really making it safer, they’re just making it more difficult for health planners to be able to provide this care,” she said.

Planned Parenthood filed a lawsuit Sept. 27 against two provisions of the bill: the FDA requirements and hospital privileges.

Effective September 2014, all abortions, including medication abortion, must take place at ambulatory surgical centers. Posada said there is no need for an abortion to be performed in an ambulatory surgical center in the first trimester.

The percentage of women who abort after the first trimester in Texas is about 1 percent.

There already is a law in place that requires the procedure be done in an ambulatory surgical center after the first trimester, she said.

It is costly for centers to become an ambulatory surgical center because those are required to have hallways of a certain width, a janitor’s closet and patient rooms that are a certain size, she said.

An ambulatory surgical center is in between a clinic and a hospital.

The number of abortion providers has sharply declined in the past 10 years, in large part, because of laws like this, Posada said.

Anti-

W to g Anto this fina T tion beca igna P be a care B from

Clinics to expand services Planned Parenthood is known as an abortion provider, but it also offers preventive health care.

By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Planned Parenthood is beginning to offer wellness and preventive care.

Mara Posada, director of communications for Planned Parenthood Trust of South Texas, spoke at this college Sept. 24 during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Women had little control over their fertility before the birth control pill was made legal to married women in the 1960s.

Within the first five years of the pill’s availability, one in four married women under the age of 45 used the pill, Posada said.

President Richard Nixon enacted the Title 10 Family Planning Grant in 1970 to help lowincome women gain access to annual exams, Pap tests and clinical breast exams.

The bill had wide bipartisan support when it passed, Posada said.

“When you think about now how polarized and politicized sometimes even family planning can be, it’s a tragedy because just 40 years ago it was very much a bipartisan effort to get family planning funded in the U.S.,” Posada said.

Many Planned Parenthood clinics focus only on preventive care. All clinics provide annual exams for women, male sexual exams, birth control, pregnancy testing and sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment.

The Stop Cervical Cancer program was created because Planned Parenthood discovered women do not follow up with a physician if they receive an abnormal Pap result.

For many, seeing another doctor is an economic hardship.

The program allows women to receive followup care at Planned Parenthood and includes colposcopies.

Women’s rights advocate Margaret Sanger, left, and her sister, Ethel Byrne, are shown in court in January 1917. Sanger was charged with maintaining a “public nuisance” after opening the first birth-control clinic in the United States in Brooklyn, N.Y. AccuNet/AP According to the Mayo Clinic website, a colposcopy is a procedure to closely examine a women’s cervix, vagina and vulva for signs of disease.

Planned Parenthood works with partners such as Methodist Healthcare Ministries that provide funding for the colposcopy procedure because it is expensive, Posada said. Last year, 400 women underwent this medical procedure done at Planned Parenthood, Posada said.

In underserved communities in the U.S., such as Latina communities, cervical cancer is high, Posada said. Many women who have cervical cancer have not been screened, Posada said.

Last year, Planned Parenthood provided more than 5,000 Pap tests for cervical cancer.

For many women, coming to Planned Parenthood is the only time they have a regular checkup, Posada said.

It is also the only time many patients have

blood sugar and iron levels checked and get hypertension under control, Posada said.

Many see Planned Parenthood as their primary care provider, Posada said. Planned Parenthood recently hired a primary care physician and will be offering more primary care services, such as treatment for allergies.

The Pilot Primary Care Project should be available by the end of this year at Planned Parenthood Southeast Family Planning, 2346 E. Southcross Blvd.

More than 93 percent of Planned Parenthood’s clients are female, 6.79 percent are male, 71 percent are Latino, 21 percent are white, 5 percent are black, and 3 percent are listed as unknown.

The majority of clients are between 17-34 years old and women in their reproductive years.

In 2012, three of 10 Latinos did not have health insurance.

Planned Parenthood supports the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare, and believes it is important to Latinos because it will help them get insurance coverage, she said.

Posada hopes the new law will encourage people to seek preventive care and not wait to see a doctor.

Posada said the ACA would provide preventive care without co-pays, including well-women exams, Pap tests and prenatal services.

People with pre-existing conditions will be covered under the ACA. Women also will be able to obtain contraception, such as birth control pills, without paying a co-pay, she said.

Depending on income and co-pay, preventive care can be costly.

Posada said the law would help reduce some of the disparities in the Latino community because they will not have to wait to receive preventive care.

For more information, visit http://www. plannedparenthood.org/south-texas.

State senators, from left, Sylvia R. Garcia, D-Houston West, D-Dallas; Kirk Watson, D-Austin; and John W rights advocates to show they voted against HB2. Acc

Lawsuit challen The FDA requires too high a dosage for medication abortions, provider says.

By Neven Jones

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Planned Parenthood Trust of South Texas opposes two of three parts of a new law that goes into effect Oct. 29 and has filed a lawsuit claiming that restricting the use of offlabel drugs and requiring physicians to have hospital privileges are unnecessary, an executive with the organization told a class at this college Sept. 24.

Mara Posada, director of communications for Planned Parenthood Trust of South Texas explained the rea-

soning 27 aga Court, Texas H Thr effect at 20 abortio within drugs Pla restric the req Wh the m Admin Posada Som

ews

Oct. 11, 2013 • 7

hardships, provider says

By Priscilla Galarza sac-ranger@alamo.edu

-abortion supporter Katherine Aguilar holds a crucifix and prays in the Capitol rotunda in Austin July 12. AccuNet/AP

Women will have to travel further get abortion services in either San onio or Dallas. For some women, s is a big deal and many times a ancial hardship, she said.

The law also will eliminate aborn facilities in the Rio Grande Valley ause the providers are not desated ambulatory surgical centers.

Posada believes everyone should able to make his or her own healthe decisions.

Before Roe v. Wade, women died m self-induced abortions, she said.

Some women are getting “fleamarket” abortions, Posada said, referring to women taking pills sold at flea markets. Sometimes women take the pills and think they had an abortion, although it has not happened completely or safely.

Planned Parenthood clinics have private philanthropy funds that are used to help women who cannot afford an abortion.

The Lilith Fund for Reproductive Equality, based in Austin, helps women who cannot afford an abor-

tion. They verify income, and women pay using a sliding scale fee based on income.

Planned Parenthood also has a program called Proper Attire, which promotes safe sex.

The campaign was started through Planned Parenthood Federation of America, its parent organization and works with designers and artists to design condom packages.

For more information visit http:// www.plannedparenthood.org/southtexas/

g behind the lawsuit filed Sept. ainst the state of Texas in Federal , challenging two provisions of House Bill 2. ree parts of Texas HB 2 go into Oct. 29: abortions are banned weeks, physicians who provide ons will need hospital privileges n 30 miles, and off-label use of will be prohibited, Posada said. anned Parenthood opposes the ction of off-label use of drugs and quirement for hospital privileges. hen a new drug is introduced to market, the U.S. Food and Drug nistration approves the dosage, a said. metimes physicians find patients

On Tuesday Sept. 24, one of two significant federal grants was awarded to the early childhood studies center here.

Eligible students will benefit from the $313,469 grant, which has been received annually for four years from the U.S. Education Department, totaling more than $1 million.

The grant will benefit students by expanding the number of students and their children who can enter the program and keeping child care subsidized.

This is the fourth time it has been awarded to the center.

This grant invests in the futures of three beneficiaries: the community, the child and the parents.

Society gains a new productive member who contributes their expertise and education to better a community.

Parents receive the peace of mind that comes with good quality child care and the opportunity to achieve a higher education without limits.

The grant enhances children’s lives because of their parents’ productivity and education during early development; however, the early childhood studies center is not like any other daycare.

They not only care for students’ children, but the institution actually funds diapers and formula.

Nursing freshman Chloe Gonzales, 19, is an example of students who uses the center.

She drops off her 10-month-old daughter, Mila, at 7:45 a.m.

Gonzales graduated from Edison High School in 2012 and faces the challenges of keeping her daughter healthy and happy while pursuing a career and future.

She is enrolled in the nursing program.

Child care is one of the most expensive areas of raising a child.

Gonzales said not only is her child being cared for, but she is actually learning more. “She is crawling more and more, and she didn’t do that before.”

Gonzales displayed confidence in the facility and its ability to care for the most precious part of her life.

“I trust them,” she said. “With no one to watch her while I go to class, it is convenient to be in the same vicinity as Mila.”

This grant helps Gonzales everyday and these awards mean the early childhood studies center now has the ability to help 16 more students this semester and 10 next summer.

Fine arts sophomore Amanda Mansolo donates blood for the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center Sept. 4 in the mall. Raquel Estrada

They want your blood

n; Wendy Davis, D-Fort Worth; Royce Whitmire, D-Houston, greet abortion cuNet/AP

nges care

Early childhood studies center awarded more than $1 million

A campus blood drive is scheduled for Oct. 28-31.

Alyssa Travino, center, of Edinburg wears a birth control bill box costume during a Planned Parenthood rally March 7 on the steps of the Capitol in Austin. AccuNet/AP

By Cassandra M. Rodriguez

need less of the drug after it’s been on the market for a while; however, they can’t prescribe less because it would be considered off-label use, Posada said.

This happened with the drug Mifeprex used for medication abortions.

Physicians are now over-prescribing this medication and being forced to practice outdated medicine, Posada said.

Medication abortion can be done until nine weeks of pregnancy, she said.

It is less intrusive than having to go to the clinic and have the medical procedure done.

“The proponents of the bill were very much adamant that this was about the health and safety of women,” Posada said.

“When you get into the details of it, that’s not really the case.”

For more information visit http:// www.plannedparenthood.org/southtexas/.

Students at this college helped donate 93 units of blood to the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center during the first blood drive of the semester.

The center depends on donors to help them carry enough supply to serve the needs throughout the community and the 67 hospitals it supplies.

The center does not have a daily quota to meet for donations, but they do have a goal of 128 units for the next blood drive on campus.

Another blood drive is scheduled Oct. 28-31 at this college. Students can donate between 9 a.m.3:30 p.m.

Donors will receive a T-shirt, physical, a snack and drink.

Mara Posada, director of community relations for Planned Parenthood, explains March 8, 2012, ways certain laws invade women’s rights to privacy in abortion procedures. File

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

Donors also will be entered in a chance to win one of three Family Four packs to Fiesta Texas, which includes the current and next season free admission and parking.

Included is a Gold Pass, allowing 15 minutes early admission and a coupon to bring a guest.

Banish the thought that a donation will not make a difference, because “75 percent of blood collected goes to patients with ongoing treatments such as chemotherapy,” said Eric Maldonado, corporate communications specialist for the center.

Donations also go to patients for organ or tissue transplant and trauma victims, he said.

The center honored San Antonio resident and outstanding donor Marcos Perez III for achieving a blood donation milestone.

Perez reached the 80-gallon mark over 27

years of helping to save lives. Perez was awarded a plaque and celebrated with a party at the center to show appreciation.

Prospective donors have to be 16 and need to weigh at least 120 pounds and have parental consent to donate.

Those aged 17 and up need to weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. All donors should be in good general health, show a valid form of identification and eat a good meal before donating.

The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center urges those who think they cannot donate to let the medical staff make the determination. Those afflicted with diabetes or high cholesterol may still be able to donate.

For more information, call the office of student life at 210-486-0125 or go to Room 250 of Loftin Student Center.

SAConnected

8 • Oct. 11, 2013

www.theranger.org/calendar

Holiday card contest carries $500 scholarship Entries should reflect uniqueness of this college, coordinator says.

By M.J. Callahan

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

For more than 15 years, the president’s holiday card design scholarship competition has been offering students a chance to get a little extra money for the holidays.

Last year’s grand prize winner Kathryn Ramirez, education sophomore, received the $500 scholarship with her card of snowmen caroling.

Robin Collett, project coordinator and assistant to the president, gave insight into what the committee is look for in the winning design.

“We like to see something that reflects something about SAC, more then just a holiday image,” she said.

The judging committee includes President Robert Zeigler; Dr. Robert Vela, vice president of academic and student success, and Vanessa Torres, director of public relations.

Collett encourages students to be

creative. “In the past, we have had the planetarium, we have had the Chance building, the Koehler house one year — all different scenes of SAC.” The card is used as an invitation to the president’s holiday gathering Dec. 6 in Koehler Cultural Center.

Every year, the college has the gathering on the first Friday of December to thank employees for their hard work during the year.

The scholarship will be presented at the event. The recipient will receive design credit on the card while Alamo Colleges will retain exclusive reproduction rights.

Collett said only about 20 entries are usually submitted so students’ chances of winning are high.

The competition is open to all students at this college. The card must be 5 inches by 7 inches and the design must be suitable for color printing. Die cuts, foil stamping and embossed effects are not allowed.

Entries should be finished and applicable to digital or offset printing.

Entries may be mounted on any

By Patricia McGlamory

pmcglamory@student.alamo.edu

SAC Event: Karaoke 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.

SAC Performance: Faculty recital sponsored by the fine arts 7:30 p.m. in McAllister auditorium. Call 210-486-0255.

Oct. 22 SAC Meeting: Adjunct Faculty Council 5:30 p.m. in Room 209 of Loftin. Call 210486-0347.

Last year’s winning card by Kathryn Ramirez. File size matte board or in a manila envelope.

Computer-generated entries must be saved to a flash drive, zip disk or CD along with all fonts and links.

The file format should be Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, PageMaker or Quick Xpress for PC or Mac. Entries must be turned in by 4 p.m.

Oct. 18. The entry form is available in

the president’s suite in Room 323 of Fletcher Administration Center.

The winner will be notified by telephone or ACES email by Oct. 23.

After the winning entry is selected, the student must present the design in a format ready for printing.

For more information, call Collett 210-486-0956 or email: mcollett@ alamo.edu.

Main Avenue and Jefferson Street.

Organizers expect to draw more than 20,000 people.

This year’s Chalk It Up features artists Jordan Henry, Matthew Eric Mendez, Lili Dyer, Kevin Rayhons, Antonia Richardson, Tommy Hopkins, Amanda Claire Miller, Pedro Luera, Jessica Garcia and Nemo & Hannah.

Chalk It Up is sponsored by Artpace, an art center promoting the importance of art education.

Artist, collector and businesswoman Linda Pace founded Artpace, and the center opened in 1995, providing artists with an environment encouraging experimentation and growth, according to the center’s website.

For more information, visit www.artpace.org/ chalk-it-up/.

Email deputy director Mary Heathcott at mheathcott@artpace.org, or call 210-212-4900.

Artpace is at 445 N. Main Ave.

Today Weekend Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Artpace invites the public to grab a piece of chalk and let imaginations run wild at the 10th annual Chalk It Up festival.

The festival is 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday on historic downtown Houston Street between North

SAC Deadline: Intercollegiate fall retreat Nov. 8-10 sponsored by Catholic Student Association.

Continues through Nov. 1. Call 210-736-3752.

SAC Transfer: Texas A&M University-San Antonio advising 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in transfer center in Room 107 of Moody. Continues Wednesday and Friday.

Call 210-486-0864.

SAC Event: Wacky 3-D Photos 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0128.

Saturday

Exhibit: Something Lost art exhibit 1 p.m.5 p.m. in Art Gallery of Dicke/Smith Building, One Trinity Place.

Continues TuesdaySaturday. Call 210999-782.

Event: Garden by Moonlight 7 p.m.11 p.m. at Botanical Garden, 555 Funston.

Bring lawn chairs or blanket. Tickets are $20 at the door and $15 online at sabot.org, Starbucks, the Garden Gift Shop and H-E-B. Call 210-829-5360.

SAC Event: Mass and Meal sponsored

by Catholic Student Association 12:15 p.m. 312 W. Courtland.

Continues Fridays. Call 210-736-9306.

Trinity Event: Body Awareness Performance 8 p.m. at Stieren Theatre, One Trinity Place.

Call 210-486-8515.

Event: Art party featuring Marcus Aurelius

by KRTU Jazz 91.7 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones. Free with Alamo Colleges ID card.

Call 210-978-8100.

Event: Jazz Day at the Witte 3 p.m.-6 p.m. at Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. Included with general admission. Visit www.wittemuseum.org.

SAC Movie: “The Conjuring” 7:30 p.m. in mall. Free for SAC students and staff. $1 general admission. Call 210-486-0125.

Sunday

Reminder: Columbus Day and Día de la Raza observances

SAC Transfer: Texas A&M University-San Antonio advising 9 a.m.-noon in transfer center on first floor of Chance. Call 210-4860864.

SAC Event: Spa Day hosted by Psychology Club 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in Fiesta Room of Loftin.

Massage station, paraffin waxing and ambient music. Call 210-4860125 or email chernandez@alamo.edu.

SAC Event: Defining Leadership 2 p.m.-3 p.m. in Room 150 of Loftin. Call 210-4860157.

NLC Event: Leadership and Success Talk with Keven Bracy video broadcast “Chasing Greatness and Leading the Way” 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m. in Room 201 of student commons. Call 210486-5404.

Event: Solar Fest 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Maverick Park, 1000 Broadway. Enter to win one of two solar photovaltaic systems.

Call 210-354-0236.

Oct. 21

Chalk it all up to art on city streets Enjoy a free, family-friendly day at the 10th annual festival.

Oct. 19

SAC Lecture: Hot Potato presentation “Does Equal Really Mean Equal: GLBT Issues” by Richard Farias. 12:15 p.m. in Methodist Student Center.

Continues Tuesdays. Visit www. saumcm.org.

SAC Meeting: CRU, formerly Campus Crusade for Christ, 1:45 p.m. in Room 004 of Chance.

Continues Tuesdays. Call 210-486-1233.

SPC Event: Competitive Edge Workshop by Phi Theta Kappa helping students enhance communication, professional etiquette and critical thinking 4:30-5:15 p.m. in Room 108 in learning resource center. Call 210-486-2199.

NLC Video: Leadership and Success broadcast “The Greatness in You” 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m. in Room 201 of student commons. Call 210-4865404.

Event: Chess 6 p.m.– 7:45 p.m. at San Pedro Branch Library, 1315 San Pedro. Continues Tuesdays. Visit www. mysapl.org/calendar. aspx?id=san#/?i=3.

Volunteer: Weed Wednesday at Hardberger Park 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Help pull weeds and plant native plants.

Continues Wednesdays.

Call 210-201-3292 or email wendy.leonard@ sanantonio.gov.

SAC Meeting: Staff Council 9 a.m.-10 a.m. in Room 120 of visual arts. Continues first and third Wednesdays.

Call 210-486-0393.

NLC Event: Health and Wellness Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the student commons opportunity mall. Blood pressure checks, glucose screenings, flu shots.

Call 210-486-5404.

SAC Event: Bible study and lunch 1:15 p.m. in Methodist Student Center. Continues Wednesdays.

Visit www.saumcm.org.

NVC Performance: “Marisol” drama production at Palmetto Theater. $3 for students.

Continues through Oct. 26. Visit www. alamo.edu/nvc/ academics/pca/.

Event: Noche Azul de Esperanza: Mujeres en la Canción at the Esperanza Center at 8 p.m., 922 San Pedro. $5 donation. Call 210228-0201 or visit www. esperanzacenter.org.

SPC Celebration: 2013 Homecoming 6 p.m.-11 p.m. in atrium of center for health professions. Registration at door required for free admission. Call 210-486-2887 or visit www.alamo.edu/spc.

SAC Event: Open Mic Coffee Night 6:30 p.m.9:30 p.m. in Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.

SPC Celebration: Homecoming pep rally sponsored by student life 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in MLK courtyard. Call 210-486-2135.

SAC Event: SAC Trivia Contest 1 p.m.-2 p.m. in game room of Loftin. Call 210-4860125.

Illustrations by Alexandra Nelipa

Oct. 24 SAC Performance: Faculty recital sponsored by fine arts 7:30 p.m. in McAllister.

Call 210-486-0255.

SPC Lecture: Wil Haygood, author of “The Butler,” part of President’s Lecture Series 11 a.m. in Watson. Call 210-486-2670.

Oct. 26 SAC Event: Heart Walk 5K sponsored by student life and the Wellness Team 8:30 a.m. at Wolff Stadium. Call 210-486-0158 Event: San Antonio Founders Day to celebrate founding of San Antonio 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Alamo. Call 210-525-6905 or visit www.sanantoniofoundersday.org.

Oct. 31 Reminder: Halloween SAC Deadline: Submit photos of loved ones in uniform to be posted in Loftin display windows in honor of Veterans Day. Call 210486-0128 or email chernandez@alamo.edu.

Nov. 2 SAC Event: Día De Los Muertos night run sponsored by student life 5 p.m.-7 p.m. in McAllister Park Pavillion 2. $5 admission.

Call 210-486-0125 or sac-studentlife@ alamo.edu.

Nov. 3 Reminder: End of daylight saving time.

Set clocks back one hour.

Event: Run with a Mission 5K benefiting Hope for the Future, a Catholic schools scholarship program, funded by the Friends of Christus Santa Rosa Foundation. Starts at 7:30 a.m. Prices vary. Call 210-7341907 or email julie.seguin@archsa.org.

Register at www.hopeforfuture.org.

Nov. 6 SAC Meeting: Faculty Senate 3 p.m. in Room 120 of visual arts. Call 210-486-0347.

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 210-486-0128.

!

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

www.theranger.org/editorial

Oct. 11, 2013 • 9

.org

the

ranger

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, Ian Flores, 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

Letters record history Yes, people read letters to the editor.

Submitting a letter to the editor gives readers a chance to influence other readers.

Letters persuade, vent, inform, illustrate and even influence coverage of news because editors read them and respond to questions, concerns and news tips.

Published letters influence the public by demonstrating a publication allows itself to be accountable to its readers, and letters chosen for publication may influence public opinion.

Readers can respond to gaps in the coverage of an issue or they can complain or praise.

Writing a letter exercises one of the most precious of American rights guaranteed by the Constitution, freedom of speech.

Some publications like The New York Times receive thousands of letters a week, while others receive far fewer.

Editors choose which letters to publish.

This newspaper welcomes letters from anyone.

They must be signed and include contact information.

In July 1897, 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon submitted to the New York Sun what has become the most requested and reprinted letter to the editor.

The letter was misplaced, so newsman Francis Pharcellus Church did not respond until Sept. 21, 1897.

Their dialogue was headlined “Is There a Santa Claus?”

Church had covered the Civil War, and it is speculated his poetic response was influenced by the carnage and destruction he witnessed in wartime.

For years following, readers requested a reprint.

At first the newspaper resisted, then acquiesced and reprinted it twice in 10 years, then more frequently thereafter.

It was most recently reprinted Dec. 21, 2012.

Refer to newseum.org/yesvirginia to read the letter in full.

First step is getting there The district’s website clearly states the first goal of the Alamo Colleges is “access”: “The Alamo Colleges provide a gateway to a quality higher education experience.”

Access, at its most basic, is the ability to get to a classroom, but for some, getting to the classroom is becoming a bigger challenge.

What does it say about the value this district places on this goal when an elevator between Gonzalez and McCreless halls is out of service and has been for more than five months?

What kind of message does it send when this district charges every one of its more than 50,000 students a $25 access fee — that’s in excess of $1.25 million — but a student has to lug her husband’s wheelchair up a flight of steps to get him to class?

It is not the students’ fault McCreless Hall flooded in May, so why are a select few being punished?

Making sure the elevators work and that wheelchair ramps aren’t too slick in rain is standard operating procedure, not a valueadded perk and certainly not an expense

requiring an extra fee.

When it’s wet, the aesthetically pleasing brick walkways become a slippery surface dangerous for everyone.

If district administrators and trustees can OK spending $1 million to train employees — who knows how much this will end up costing to train all students — in Stephen R. Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People,’” they better be willing to pay for safety.

If this cult of effectiveness is so great, why are examples of ineffectiveness in this district’s leadership so pervasive?

The first two values of this district’s strategic plan are “students first” and “respect for all.”

If the Alamo Colleges fail to provide even one student equal access, it has failed.

“Respect for all” used to be called diversity, which reminds us we all have something to contribute. When access is denied, everyone loses an opportunity for learning and growth.

The district needs to address the accessibility issues that exist and anticipate obstacles destined to develop in the future.

Labs vital, not ‘7 Habits’ The district will spend $689,000 over three years to fund training using Stephen R. Covey’s “ 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”

The program’s seven habits are designed to make students and employees more successful through personal development and leadership training.

The district has already spent $306,090 for Covey training for 2013.

How many tutors and work-study students would the $1 million approved for training, materials and intellectual property rights restore to serve our students in the English labs and writing center?

English lab hours were cut by two-thirds and the writing center lost all but two tutors.

How can students become better writers and critical thinkers without sufficient labs to help them master foundation skills?

Employees will be trained first, and students will be taught a similar course using “7 Habits of Highly Effective College Students” as soon as next fall in student development.

The current course, SDEV 0170, Student

Development, uses “On Course” by Skip Downing to teach college success skills, so why does the district need another program?

During a phone interview, Darryl Nettles, associate director for student success at Northwest Vista College, told The Ranger the lessons of the “7 Habits” program are common sense. He believes in the program and is a “7 Habits”trainer, but if the lessons are common sense, why change the curriculum?

Students need course content, critical thinking and reading skills, and study and research techniques. “7 Habits” doesn’t improve those.

You cannot seek higher grades, higher retention and higher graduation rates without providing the support required to achieve them.

Merriam-Webster defines common sense as “sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts.”

It seems district administrators and trustees could stand a dose of common sense. Our employees and students already have a pretty strong grasp on the situation.

Correction

Rosenauer’s description of late English Professor Raul S. Murguia should have read, “He was a very educated and very genteel scholar.”

In “Auld lang syne: In memory of campus memorials” in the Oct. 4 issue of the The Ranger, Dr. Johnnie

Opinion

10 • Oct. 11, 2013

Letter Keep literature as a curriculum choice Editor: I am a student here and I want to express my opinion on the learning framework courses mentioned in the Oct. 4 issue of this newspaper.

I understand the Alamo Colleges wants to shape students into educated professionals by requiring students to take courses that will lay down a strong foundation of learning to build upon.

As adults, after completing the required student development course, students should have the right to decide how they want to strengthen those skills essential to completing college, whether it is through a learning frameworks course or a literature course.

To me, it is like the government passing a law that requires citizens to go workout in a gym; but to fund the law, the government will take tax dollars and limit visits to parks and recreational areas.

Make it a choice, not a need, so the opportunity to become better students and learn to appreciate literature is not taken away.

When students become professionals, they will make those decisions that will decide how well they do in their career.

Give students the right to make responsible decisions with their education.

I finish my opinion with significant dialogue found in “The

www.theranger.org/opinion

Sound Off Cat’s Cradle” by Kurt Vonnegut: I turned to the Castle elder.

‘Sir, how does a man die when he’s deprived of the consolations of literature?’

‘In one of two ways,’ he said, ‘petrescence of the heart or atrophy of the nervous system.’

J’son Tillmon Journalism Sophomore

Fix system, save up money to fix elevator Editor: I am writing to you because I just finished reading your article “Elevators, doors need fixing” in the Oct. 4 issue.

If facilities superintendant David Ortega said there’s a delay in the system, I think they should get the system working properly so there wouldn’t be any more delays.

I understand that it costs money to get things like this fixed, but it can be done if that money is saved.

I wouldn’t feel safe in an elevator in which the inspection is out of date because anything can be wrong with it.

You just never know, for those who have to take the elevators.

I can just see the disappointment when someone in a wheelchair sees a sign that reads: “Preventive maintenance; back in service soon.”

All we can do is hope that all this is fixed very soon.

Robert Gallardo Film Production Sophomore

How much do you care about having health insurance and why?

“It helps more with the dentist or in case something happens, you’ll have it. Plus you have it with the family so you don’t have to worry. I think it’s important to have it.

Sophia Aguirre, nursing freshman “It’s important. Anything can happen to you at any time. It’s always good to have that safety net there to help you.” Gabriel Benavidez, kinesiology freshman “It would be something I care for. For the instance any accidents that may happen, there is something there to help me out.” Alec Brune, criminal justice freshman “It’s pretty important.

I used to have health care before when I worked for another company. With things like emergencies, when you don’t have money, they would take it from my check. It was not a lot and it came in handy.”

Manuel Boutista, radio-televisionbroadcasting sophomore

“Not very much at all because I’m always healthy.”

Sarah Dinsmore, biology freshman

“It is important. Yeah.

What if something happens to you — and you have the money for it. It’s there.”

Angelica Guerrero, biology freshman

“It’d be helpful to have health insurance, but it’s pretty expensive.

I don’t have health insurance right now, but it’d be helpful to have it.”

Martha Galvan, pharmacy technician, freshman

“I highly suggest everyone have health insurance.” Giovanni Medrano, music sophomore

“I think it’s really important because I’m always sick.” Nancy Guillef, liberal arts freshman “I care because a lot of things always happen. When I am sick, or my son is sick, we need insurance.

Insurance is really important because the expense of health care is really expensive.” Evangelina Garza, nursing freshman “I think it’s pretty important. What if you get hurt or sick or something? You don’t want to have to pay a full expense.” John Gonzalez, photography freshman

“I think it’s good to have health insurance in case we get injured.” Eric Miller, liberal arts freshman

“I really don’t care about having health insurance because I know that God’s going to protect me.” Vivian Mota, nursing freshman “I care about it pretty significantly ... it’s potentially necessary.

You never know what is going to happen.”

Kyle Rembisz, liberal arts sophomore

Pulse

www.theranger.org/pulse

Oct. 11, 2013 • 11

Samuel Cabrera, film and television production sophomore, and liberal arts freshman Jonathan Mendez spar during Boxing Club practice Monday in Candler. Emily Rodriguez

SAC Boxing Club battles to improve Boxing club prepares for Olympic-style event.

By Michael Peters

mpeters28@student.alamo.edu

Under the watchful eye of Hector Ramos, decorated amateur boxer and coach of this college’s boxing club, 20 boxers worked tirelessly on conditioning, technique and movement Monday in Gym 1 of Candler Physical Education Center in preparation for an Olympic-style boxing event Oct. 25.

Ramos, coach of the club since Dec. 2011, traditionally starts practice one month before an event. But this semester, the club began practice Sept. 9 — two weeks ahead of schedule — to “see who really wants it.”

After stretching, the boxers ran laps, and shuffled in a proper stance, around the court perimeter. “Hands up, elbows in,” Ramos encouraged.

The club practiced 1-2 combinations during previous practices. The 1-2 combination is a jab and cross to establish distance and set up other punches. The jab is thrown with the front hand and the cross with the back hand.

“We’re working on uppercuts and hooks today,” Ramos said, excitedly rubbing his hands together. “We’re still going to punch each other, too.

That’s the fun part.”

Boxers lined up on the baseline to

Business freshman Roy Reyes jabs at graphic design freshman David Murillo Monday in Candler. Boxers sparred 30 seconds before moving on to other opponents. Emily Rodriguez

David Murillo and coach Hector Ramos demonstrate 1-2-3 combos. Emily Rodriguez move forward, and later backwards, while continuously throwing the 1-2 combination. “Keep moving all the way,” Ramos said. “Chin down.”

At one point, Ramos called for the boxers to freeze. He shoved each boxer’s shoulder to check their balance.

Five of the 20 boxers lost balance, so Ramos sent them back to begin again.

“Stay relaxed; let your hands go,” Ramos corrected. “Hands back to the face; your legs shouldn’t be touching.”

After a water break, the boxers lined up again to work on technique for throwing the 1-2 combination.

The coach shoved each boxer again, and this time, they were able to maintain balance. “Balls of your feet — not

your heels,” Ramos clarified.

Ramos demonstrated the 1-2-3 combination, which adds a hook.

Hooks, primarily used as power punches, are normally thrown after a set-up combination.

Ramos demonstrated where the punch should properly stop. “Some people have been taught to throw as hard as you can and come around, but that leaves your head and body open,” he said.

Next, Ramos went down the line, hands up in a guard position as the students practiced throwing the 1-2-3 combination. Noting three boxers stop momentarily, Ramos ordered them to do push-ups until he worked his way back down the line. “If I see you stopping, you go into push-up position,” he said. “Continue working. Do not stop.”

Ramos touched on strategy, saying an opponent can block a jab with hands in front of the face. The hook, though, will come around the guard and connect, which could force a boxer to shift the guard to the side, which opens up the front to jabs. In

the guard, the boxer keeps his arms up and legs bent to be able to quickly block body or head punches.

“Don’t throw the hook when the round starts,” he said. “A lot of people do it to get a knockout, but you’re not going to knock anybody out.”

Ramos then showed the proper uppercut technique, saying the “safest way” is from the guard stance.

He chose a student to demonstrate. “If someone throws a body shot, your arm is there, so come down and go right into the uppercut,” he said. “If I open up, I can get hit, so keep it safe and bend your legs.”

The boxers partnered for light sparring. “Stay on the line and go 50-60 percent speed and power,” Ramos instructed.

His boxing career includes 193 bouts, 156 victories, 51 by knockout and two years as USA Boxing’s No. 1 ranked light-welterweight.

Ramos donned his gloves. His first “victim” was communication design freshman David Murillo, who struggled with the coach’s reach but remained upbeat. “He has long arms

Gym shorts

Center offers food pantry

Basketball games

Church of Christ offers Bible study, recreation and services.

Wednesday Women’s: San Antonio at Southwest Texas Junior 6 p.m. at La Forge Hall and gymnasium.

Women’s: Northwest Vista at St. Philip’s 6 p.m. at health and fitness center.

Women’s: Lackland Air Force at Incarnate Word 6 p.m. at McDermott Center.

Men’s: San Antonio at Southwest Texas Junior 8 p.m. at La Forge Hall gymnasium.

Men’s: Northwest Vista at St. Philip’s 8 p.m. at health and fitness center.

Men’s: Northeast Lakeview at Incarnate Word 8 p.m. at McDermott Center.

Men’s: Victoria at St. Edward’s 8 p.m. at RCC Fitness Center and Gym.

Michael Peters

a place to come.”

This semester, the center is hosting a variety of events geared toward providing an outlet for

By Bleah B. Patterson students and a place where they feel comfortable. sac-ranger@alamo.edu The student center offers a men’s Bible study 1

The Church of Christ Student Center invites p.m.-2 p.m. Mondays and a women’s Bible study 1 students to bring their needs to the staff for help. p.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays. On Tuesdays, the center This semester, the center opened a food pan- schedules a Bible study for both male and female try to serve students in need of basic non-perish- students 7 p.m.-8 p.m. able items.

Life group studies are topical and are directed Students who present a stustudies of interest to particident ID at the center at 301 W. pants.

We don’t care Dewey Place can receive free The student center holds a about your religion, groceries on a monthly basis. free luncheon and devotional we just want to The center’s pantry does with video presentations at give students a not require students to provide 11:30 a.m. Fridays. proof of income.

They also provide language place to come.

The student ministry, programs with qualified tutors Curt Linge, across the street from Fletcher who are willing to help students center director Administration Center, is collearn English as a second lanlecting nonperishable food guage. donations to keep the pantry stocked.

The ministry will provide private counseling Anyone can drop off donations 10 a.m.-3 p.m. services by appointment.

— the center’s hours of operation — Monday In addition, the center offers students free through Friday at the center. printing, free Internet access and free use of com“We want students to know that we’re here for puters in study rooms. them,” Director Curt Linge said. “We don’t care For more information, call the center at 210about your religion; we just want to give students 736-6750.

’’

Biology freshman Paloma Nova and business freshman Roy Reyes throw combination punches in practice Monday. Emily Rodriguez and is very experienced, plus, you can’t move,” Murillo said. “In a ring, it’s easier because you can move.”

Ramos next took on mechanical engineering freshman Anthony Espinosa and kinesiology sophomore Katherine Bouldin. She competed and won her bout in the spring event.

Ramos’ long reach forced Bouldin to move quickly to avoid being peppered by jabs.

Next was more conditioning.

Boxers threw 10 punches and did four push-ups for a few minutes. Practice ended with flapjacks in which boxers lie flat on their backs and rapidly transition into push-up position.

“How do you feel?” Ramos asked rhetorically. “If you work out during the weekend, you’ll feel better.”

Practice is 4 p.m.-6 p.m. MondayFriday in the craft room of Loftin.

For more information, call the office of student life at 210-486-0125.

Walk Like MADD 5K funds aid to victims Lorena R. Rivera

sac-ranger@alamo.edu

In 2012, a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found San Antonio ranked No. 12 for the most binge drinkers.

Mostly individuals aged 18-24 admit to binge drinking or consuming on average nine drinks in one sitting.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving, one of the largest alcohol victim services organizations in the U.S., is a nonprofit organization on a mission to prevent underage drinking and stop drunk driving.

MADD is hosting a 5K walk, timed run and festival, Walk Like MADD. This is the nonprofit’s signature event to raise funds for victims and awareness about the consequences and effects of driving drunk.

The 5K walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Oct. 19 at the AT&T Center. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by an opening ceremony at 8:30 a.m.

The cost is $20 for adults, $15 for youth and $35 for the timed run.

To register or for more information. go to www. walklikemadd.com.

News

12 • Oct. 11, 2013

www.theranger.org/news

ASL study offers two career paths

By Justin Rodriguez sac-ranger@alamo.edu

The American Sign Language program revolves around a culture, not just a language. “One misconception (of the interpreters) is that the students are just helpers,� Jo Hilton, interpreting services manager, said.

The professors and students both benefit, Hilton said. “This semester, faculty appear to be more accepting of interpreters in the classroom ... because sometimes interpreters can be distracting,� she said.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board rates the ASL program and interpreter training at this college as exemplary.

“It (sign language) is becoming recognized as a language,� she said.

Students can pursue three degrees.

Two can be completed here and a bachelor of applied science can be continued at universities that offer ASL. The two degrees here are associate of applied science for sign language interpreters and an associate of applied science in ASL for deaf support specialists.

According to salaryexpert.com, the average salary for an ASL interpreter is $30,000 per year.

Interpreters must complete a 240hour internship, typically interning at local schools.

Deaf support specialists usu-

Why choose a career in respiratory care?

ally complete internships in school districts because of the experience gained, Hilton said.

Students interning at this college typically interpret for guest speakers or at the Methodist Student Center Hot Potato lecture each week. “Deaf people are just like you; they just can’t hear,� Secretary Ray Rodriguez said.

Interpreters stand in front of an audience and interpret wordfor-word. “It is important that the meaning and context of the words are interpreted down to the body and facial expression,� he said.

Students in the program use the Sorenson Video Relay Service, a system designed for video communica-

The American Sign Language glee club sings the national anthem during SACtacular Oct. 4 in the mall. Marie Sullins tion to help students interact with tutors and interpreters. “Making efforts to communicate matters to students,� he said.

Some students take sign language as a foreign language at first, but later become interpreters. “Some do

it because of their love for the language — the culture. Some have been influenced by a deaf person in their life,� Rodriguez said.

For more information, visit Room 114 of Nail Technical Center or call 210-486-1106.

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Respiratory care offers many career avenues.

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