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The LGBT community has a new cheer: “Love wins.” Page 4
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Same-sex marriage a dream come true
Serving San Antonio College since 1926 Volume 90 Issue 5 • Oct. 12, 2015
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Alamo Colleges extends copyright to student works SACSCOC addresses copyright need for accreditation. By Cynthia M. Herrera
cherrera151@@student.alamo.edu
Procedure C. 1.8.1 states that student work created in class for course requirements is owned by the student; however, the district has a nonexclusive, irrevocable, royalty-free license over students’ work. On Sept. 22, Procedure C.1.8.1, Intellectual Property, was amended to expand from employees’ work to include student work. This means district has the right to display or perform student work in exhibition or performances listed in the course syllabus. The district may quote excerpts
from it for district publicity purposes. The district owns all rights to student work attached to district property or unclaimed by students and removed within six months after the course the work was created in or after an exhibition on district property. Eddie Cruz, district ethics and compliance officer, said changes were made without notifying the board because it is a procedure not a policy. “Policies go to the board, procedure is basically how we’re going to implement the policy, and usually it doesn’t go to the board … the board doesn’t want to see it,” Cruz said. “The whole idea is it goes to the administra-
tors. Those who are responsible for it hadn’t really been an issue, but you go over it … the board doesn’t want to know we need to meet the accredisee how we do business as long as we tation requirements so basically put follow policy.” in something about General counstudents.” ... One of the sel Ross Laughead It was changed things that we said the Southern need to do is show to add students and Association of acknowledge their how students can Colleges and Schools rights, Laughead said. create things and Commission on Under U.S. copyright it really belongs to Colleges is behind law, anything creyou, the student. the change. ated, written, drawn, Jo-Carol Fabianke, photographed etc. “SACACCs pointvice chancellor of ed out that under is copyrighted autoacademic success their standards, matically. you’re supposed to Jo-Carol Fabianke, have clear policies about intellec- vice chancellor of academic success, tual property, including that related said the procedure is meant to proto students,” he said. “That practice tect students’ rights to their work
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done in class. “That procedure has been in place for a long time, so one of the things that we need to do is show how students can create things and it really belongs to you, the student. So the piece that we added in there is to cover that,” Fabianke said. She said students can do what they like with work they create. The college gains no profit from students’ work if sold. Employees who create work during work hours on campus equipment must negotiate with the institution about rights to sell their work. Fabianke said college presidents are reviewing procedure for their input.
National Night Out unites police, students, ’hood District police reach out to the community to encourage safety and prevention. By Kyle R. Cotton
kcotton11@student.alamo.edu
Amid recent crime reports, students discussing some of their bad experiences at Tobin Lofts and a neighborhood hostage situation the morning of Oct. 6; the Alamo College police department hosted its first National Night Out event. The event, for the college and Tobin Lofts community, was on West Evergreen Street between North Main Avenue and Howard Street. National Night Out was established in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch to promote partnerships between the police and community and camaraderie among neighbors to make the community safer. This was one of 600 National Night Out events across San Antonio, President Robert Vela said. About 200 people showed up at the event; the music was loud as people lined up for food provided by Luther’s Cafe and district police.
A mariachi band was on hand, competing with the loudspeakers to entertain the crowd. Jose Martinez, business freshman and Tobin Lofts resident, said, “It’s pretty cool. This is the first time I’ve seen something like this.” Martinez hadn’t read the recent crime stories but said, “I heard things, before I moved in, like, it wasn’t safe, but I haven’t seen anything.” Deputy Chief Joe Pabon, who helped coordinate the event, said, “This is for the community. This gives them the opportunity to get to know each other and their local police. “In an environment like this, you’ll see people tell us things we should be aware of,” Pabon said. Police can be intimidating for some people. “Feel free to talk to them. They don’t bite, and if they do, they’ve had their rabies shots,” police Chief Don Adams said. Business sophomore Deron Taylor said, “It’s nice of
Students, faculty, Alamo Colleges police officers and community members mariachi Los Galleros Oct. 6 during this college’s first National Night Out hosted by the Alamo Colleges police department on West Evergreen and North Main. About 250 attendees had free food, raspas and drinks at the block party promoting community-building against crime. Watch the video online at theranger.org. E. David Guel them to put on an event like this. It shows me a different insight on them. “It’s nice to see how friendly they are, and knowing that they are just a couple of blocks away makes me feel safe,” he said.
Taylor, a resident of Tobin Lofts for two years, said the complex is gated, the front doors have double locks and the staff in the leasing office is very receptive. Melissa Aguillon, a spokesperson for Tobin Lofts, said
general manager Nick Leto was talking with residents at the event one-on-one to address any concerns. “We want to make sure our residents feel as safe as possible,” Aguillon said. Pabon said he was happy
with the turnout but wants it to be much bigger. “We’ve only filled up half the block this year. Next year, I want to fill the whole block.” For nonemergencies, call 210-485-0099, or 210-4850911 for emergencies.
Oregon Community College shooting reminder of campus dangers Alamo Colleges Safety Plan is ready to be implemented when needed. By Giselle Guadron sac-ranger@alamo.edu
If you checked ACES email or were on campus last week, you are probably aware of a safety drill and test of the Alamo Colleges Alert Notification System Oct. 1 at this college. Later that day, at Oregon Umpqua Community College, nine people were killed and nine injured when a gunman entered a classroom with multiple weapons and began firing. At this college it was just a drill, but what if it was a situation similar to Umpqua? What do you do? Safety experts say, first, you must stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. “Stay vigilant. I notice a lot of students looking down at their phones and texting,” Deputy Chief Joe Pabon said. “If you hear a noise like a gunshot, don’t hesitate. Call somebody and tell
someone that you hear gunshots.” Make sure you let the 911 operator know every detail of what you see and hear. If you are in a classroom, Pabon advises blocking the door with whatever is available, so that no one can get in. “Wait for police to come before you unblock the entry,” he added. Next time you walk into a classroom, pay attention to the wall by the door. Hanging there you will see a safety plan and evacuation routes. The safety plan has scenarios ranging from a fire to an active shooter. Familiarize yourself with the safety plan because in an emergency situation, knowing what to do can help save your life. There is an emergency plan in effect for all Alamo College campuses. Mike Legg, director of enterprise risk management, said, “Each college has their own specific plan, but they are all very similar.”
Cpl. Marisa Saccio gives a demonstration in 2013 of blocking doors in case a shooter tries to go in a classroom in Room 208 of the nursing complex. File Another tool to keep everyone on campus safe is the notification. “Our Connect 5 system sends out communication by email, voicemail and text message,” said Mario Muñiz, director of district public relations. In ACES, information can be updated as
needed. Muñiz recommends that everyone “update your information at least once a semester.” The Umpqua Community College shooting is a sad reminder of the violence of mass shootings in schools, colleges and businesses around the nation. To keep campuses safe, take all emergency drills seriously. “We want all people to be prepared in the small window, if it does happen,” Legg said. Visit www.alamo.edu/emergency/ for more information on Emergency Notification Information. For more information on the Alamo Colleges Police Department and for a PDF of the emergency plan, visit www.alamo.edu/district/ police/. For more information on the Alamo Alert Notification System, visit www.alamo.edu/ alert/.
SAConnected
2 • Oct. 12, 2015
Hanging out Paralegal studies freshman Aaron Carrizales and nursing sophomore David Matalon, center, study and chat in hammocks in the grass east of Candler. They are members of the Hammock Club, which meets 12:15-1 p.m. Monday and 9:3010:30 a.m. Thursday by Candler. Matalon said the club encourages students to slow down and establish long-term friendships. He wants the club to “reach the SAC community one hammock at a time.” E. David Guel
www.theranger.org/calendar
‘How-to’ Business management freshman Nathan Delgado shows biology pre-professional sophomore Megan Cuda how to do a card trick Oct. 1 in the lobby of McAllister. Delgado and Cuda are from speech Professor Jolinda Ramsey’s public speaking class that gave “how-to” demonstrations to passersby for a class assignment of practicing speech skills while interacting with students. Hillary E. Ratcliff
Writing center
Donate
International business sophomore Shawn Ramsey writes a literary criticism essay Tuesday in the writing center of Gonzales. The center helps students understand writing assignments, develop essays and create résumés. Hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday. It is closed Friday. E. David Guel
today tues
SAC Transfer: DeVry University 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Our Lady of the Lake University 11 a.m.-1 p.m. first floor of Chance. Call 210-486-1500. SAC Meeting: Student Government Association noon in craft room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125 SAC Meeting: Campus Activities Board 2 p.m. employee lounge of Loftin. Call 210589-3845. PAC Event: Heritage Month opening ceremony and indigenous blessing noon-1:30 p.m. courtyard. Call 210-486-3125. PAC Transfer: Texas A&M University-San Antonio noon-4 p.m. Room 101 student center. Call 210-486-3131. PAC Event: Intramural soccer officials training 4-6 p.m. continues through Wednesday soccer field. Call 210-4863880. PAC Event: Meet and greet with Vice President Gilbert Becerra 5-6 p.m. Room 130 Student Center. Call 210-4863882. Event: Stephen J. Patterson on “The Lost Way: How Two Forgotten Gospels are Rewriting the Story of Christian Origins” 7-8:30 p.m. Chapman auditorium, Trinity University. Call 210-999-8426.
SAC Transfer: UT Health Science Center-San Antonio, 9 a.m.- noon first floor of Moody, UTSA 9 a.m.-noon first floor of Chance and 1-4 p.m. first floor of Moody, and Texas A&M-San Antonio 2-6 p.m. first floor of Moody. Call 210-486-1500. NVC Event: Chicana historian, Antoñia Castañeda 9:30 a.m. Lago Vista in Cypress. Call 210-486-4682. SAC Meeting: NonTraditional Student Club 12:301:30 p.m. Empowerment Center. Call 210-815-4014. SAC Meeting: Cheshyre Cheese Club 1:30 p.m. Room 203 of Gonzales. Call 210486-1436. SAC Meeting: Campus Crusade for Christ 1:45-2:45 p.m. Room 002 of Chance. Call 210-486-1233. SAC Film: “McFarland, USA” 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Fiesta Room of Loftin. Continues Thursday with actor Ramiro Rodriguez 6:30-8 p.m. McAllister auditorium. Call 210-486-0125. PAC Event: Cosmetology open house 6-8 p.m. Room 221 of San Jacinto. Call 210486-3179.
wed
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fri
SAC Event: Free online tutoring with writing center 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays 6-10 p.m. Call 210-486-1433.
SAC Transfer: Texas State University 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. first floor of Loftin, University of Incarnate Word 1-3 p.m. first floor of Chance. Call 210-486-1500.
PAC Film: “Selena” 9 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. “La Bamba” 11:15 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. student center. Call 210-4863125.
SAC Transfer: Our Lady of the Lake (by appointment) and Texas A&M-San Antonio 9 a.m.-noon first floor of Moody, UT Health Science CenterSan Antonio 11 a.m.-3 p.m. first floor of nursing complex, Schreiner University 1-3 p.m. first floor of Chance. Call 210486-1500. PAC Transfer: University of the Incarnate Word 9 a.m.noon Room 101 of student center. Call 210-486-3131. SAC Meeting: Future Teachers Organization 12:30 p.m. Room 108 Gonzales. Call 210-627-1491. SAC Meeting: Club Amar 1:45 p.m. craft room of Loftin. Call 210-290-0865 SAC Meeting: Psychology Club 2 p.m. Room 623 of Moody. Call 210-773-8306. SAC Meeting: Students for Environmental Awareness 2 p.m. EcoCentro. Call 210-5630447. SAC Meeting: GALA 3-4:30 p.m. in employee lounge Loftin. Call 210-326-7274.
NVC Event: Anthony Flores poetry slam 11 a.m. at Cypress. Call 210-486-4682. SAC Event: Pumpkin decorating contest 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Fiesta Room of Loftin. Prizes for top three pumpkins. Call 210-486-0125.
sat
SAC Meeting: Asian Pop Society meeting 2-5 p.m. craft room of Loftin. Call 210-4526185.
SAC Event: Feria De Educacíon festival 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Candler gym. Call 210486-0948. PAC Event: World premiere dance performance and panel discussion on Indigenous identity with Isaac Cárdenas, Jesse Borrego and Dr. Carmen Tafolla 8-10:15 p.m. performing arts center. Call 210-486-3125.
SAC Event: 7-on-7 flag football 3:30 p.m. Olmos Park. Call 210-486-0125. SAC Event: Actor Ramiro Rodriguez of “McFarland, USA” 6:30-8 p.m. McAllister auditorium. Call 210-4860125.
sun
Event: 3rd San Antonio Photo Tournament 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Dominion Country Club. Ages 12 and up. Bring DSLR camera. Call 210-681-8552. PAC Event: Halloween story and craft time 3-6 p.m. first floor of Ozuna. Call 210-486-3570. File
mon
PAC Transfer: Troy University and Our Lady of the Lake University 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Room 101 in student center. Call 210-4863131.
SAC Event: 3-on-3 mini volleyball tournaments noon-2 p.m. in Candler gym. $5 per person per tournament. Call 210-486-0129
SAC Event: Fashion show practice 2-4 p.m. Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-486-0125.
SAC Performance: “The Servant of Two Masters” 7:30 p.m. through Saturday McCreless theater. Alamo Colleges/ high school ID $5, other colleges, seniors and military $8 and general admission $10. Call 210-486-0255.
Belinda Calderon, communication assistant for the Alamo Colleges Foundation, helps Valerie Salazar, cashier at the Starbucks at this college, choose an organization to donate to as part of Alamo Colleges Employees Giving Back Tuesday in the Fiesta Room of Loftin. Salazar gave to the Alamo Colleges Foundation Fund. Employees can donate online until Oct. 30 by visiting alamo.edu/employees-givingback/ and by following the stepby-step instructions and clicking on “Login to United Way.” Katherine Garcia
PAC Event: Generations FCU: “Buying a Vehicle” 11 a.m.-noon Room 130 of student center. Call 210-486-3882. Film: “Foreigners in Their Own Land” 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Vista Room Suite 402, Central Academic Building, Texas A&M-San Antonio. Call 210784-1500. SAC Event: “SAC’s Got Talent” tryouts 2-4 p.m. Fiesta Room of Loftin. Call 210-4860125. PAC Event: “Peril and Promise” documentary 2-3:30 p.m. Room 217 of Ozuna. Call 210-486-3557 Event: Harpsichord recital featuring Christina Scott Edelen 7:30 p.m. Treadaway Recital Hall, St. Mary’s University. Call 210-436-3421.
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For coverage in SAConnected, call 210-486-1773 or e-mail sac-ranger@alamo.edu two weeks in advance. Visit theranger.org for more upcoming events.
News
www.theranger.org/news
Oct. 12, 2015 • 3
Registration for spring peace officer classes to begin Academy starts training police cadets and begins enrollment in October. By E. David Guel
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
The Law Enforcement Training Academy at this college, in its 41st year of operation, began peace officer training Sept. 28 and continues through Dec. 10. Spring enrollment begins Oct. 12 and closes Jan 8. This semester, classes are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends at the Law Enforcement Training Center. Administrative assistant Michelle Contreras said the academy graduates more than 280 cadets each year. According to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement website, Texas has 106 law enforcement academies, and two are in San Antonio — the San Antonio Police Academy and Law Enforcement Training Academy. “Our graduation rate is about 98 percent,” Contreras said. The academy’s graduates go on to work for law enforcement agencies in Texas, such as the San Antonio Police Department and Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. Licensed by the commission, the 11-month training is separated into four 11-week phases
and a total of 688 hours of classroom training. Phases 1-4 cover history of policing, professionalism and ethics, Texas Penal Code, criminal justice system, criminal investigation, civil rights, domestic violence, tactical training, use of force and on-duty driving. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen of 21 years of age with a high school diploma, General Educational Development or two years of active-duty military service. Required documents include a Texas driver’s license, proof of citizenship and proof of bacterial meningitis vaccination. According to the academy application, peace officer hopefuls must first create a student profile at www.alamo.edu, create an ACES log-in, take the Accuplacer reading exam and submit a Fingerprint Applicant Service of Texas fingerprint receipt as part of a background check. Applicants with a Class A or B conviction in the last 10 years are not considered. Accuplacer exams cost $10 and are administered in Room 112 of Fletcher Administration Center on a walk-in basis. The reading exam can be waived with a transcript or a college degree.
Law enforcement trainee Shanon Wright is handcuffed by Instructor Bobby McMillan in a handcuffing exercise during Private Security Training at the law enforcement training center. File Completion of training allows cadets to register for the state’s basic peace officer licensing exam. Phase 1 and 2 are $500 each, Phase 3 is $600 and Phase 4 is $525. Financial aid is available through the Texas Public Education Grant for
those who qualify. TPEG applicants must be Texas residents, non-residents or foreign students, show financial need and register for the Selective Service, unless exempt. For more information, call academy director Frank W. Francis, at 210-486-1337.
Student group plans march to protest domestic violence Community is encouraged to take action against abuse. By Roberto Martinez sac-ranger@alamo.edu
The Non-traditional Students Club will sponsor a march Oct. 21 promoting the Clothesline Project to spread awareness of domestic violence. The Clothesline Project is a program that started in Cape Cod, Mass., in October 1990 to address the issue of violence against women. The project provides a way for women affected by violence to express themselves and serves as an educational tool for the public. The purpose of the group is to encourage victims and those who know victims of domestic violence to decorate shirts with empowering messages and display them on clotheslines, according to clotheslineproject.org. Club adviser Maria Jimenez, an academic adviser in the
Dental hygiene sophomore Stephanie Contreras leads a chant of “speak up!” in a march against domestic abuse Oct. 15, 2014. File Empowerment Center, said she brought the Clothesline Project here in 2011 after nursing student Kristine Meza, 25, was killed in a domestic violence incident. Meza was killed by her former boyfriend Feb. 11, 2011, as she was attempting to leave for work, accord-
ing to a Feb. 15, 2012, article on mysanantonio.com, the website of the San Antonio Express-News. Nicholas Maldonado, 29, committed suicide moments after shooting Meza. The article reported that family members were aware of Maldonado’s
threats, but they were still shocked that Meza was killed. The club will provide shirts to decorate 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 19 and Oct. 20 in the mall on the west side of Moody Learning Center. Paralegal studies sophomore Catherine Alexander, president of the Non-traditional Students Club, is helping to plan the events and invites the public to join the cause. “We’ll provide the shirts and the crafts supplies to decorate the shirts,” Alexander said. The march will be at noon Oct. 21 beginning at the Empowerment Center and ending at Loftin Student Center. Club members will call attention to child abuse during this march by ringing a gong every three seconds to symbolize the fact a child is abused every three seconds in the U.S. The club will hang the shirts above the stairs in Loftin, and club members will share testimonials and answer questions.
Jane Shafer, community services supervisor with the San Antonio Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, said Wednesday in a phone interview San Antonio had 10,599 family violence reports in 2014. In 2014, the Texas Council on Family Violence reported there were 132 deaths of women in Texas attributed to domestic violence. Bexar County reported five deaths last year. Shafer encourages members of the community to volunteer with the police department’s Family Assistance Crisis Team, which provides support to victims of domestic violence at a substation. “If you see or hear something, say something,” Shafer said. “Especially when it comes to children because they are more prone to repeating violent behavior. And we have to end the cycle of violence because we all pay as a society in the long run.” Call the Family Assistance Crisis Team at 210-207-2305.
New Texas gun laws allow open carry on campus Law for community colleges takes effect fall 2017. By Melissa Luna
mluna132@alamo.edu
Chancellor Bruce Leslie announced he is preparing to form “a task force” to assist the district in maintaining gun control on campus. His remarks came at the student dialogue and listening forum Sept. 16. at this college. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed House Bill 910 on June 13, which allows Texas residents with concealed handgun licenses to openly carry handguns in hip or shoulder holsters. Later that day, Abbott also signed State Bill 11, a campuscarry law that states “public institutions of higher education may not circumvent the
intent of the act by imposing administrative bans and sanctions on CHLs (concealed handgun licensees) on their campuses.” The new campus-carry law will affect Alamo Colleges campuses beginning August 2017. Universities must comply beginning in fall 2016. “The board has taken positive action to express their opposition to it,” Leslie said. “Most of us senior leaders in higher education are opposed to the legislation.” In May 2013, trustees passed a resolution prohibiting concealed carry in the district. On June 14, 2013, Texas Gov. Rick Perry signed State Bill 1907, which states that an
institution of higher education may not adopt or enforce any regulation or prohibit the storage or transportation of a firearm or ammunition in a locked motor vehicle by a student who holds a license to carry. The law went into effect Sept. 1, 2013, and allowed students to lawfully possess a firearm or ammunition on a street or driveway located on the campus of an institution or in a parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area on the campus of an institution. District general counsel Ross Laughead will chair the 23-member task force. Each college will have a minimum of three representatives, including a student government representative and
faculty representative. puses, after consulting with Trustees’ biggest concern students, faculty and staff. with open carry on campus is Institutions must take the presence of unique student into account the nature of populations, which include the student population, any young children and high school safety considerations and the students, Laughead said in a uniqueness of the campus Sept. 21 phone environment. interview. “I want to Most of us “Gun-carr y get your voice senior leaders in people won higher education so that we can in Austin,” try to fine tune are opposed to Laughead said. — to the extent the legislation. “We still need we can — to Bruce Leslie, try to ensure to comply with chancellor the law, which the greatest means talking safety for our about gun lockers and stuff family as possible,” Leslie told like that.” students. State Bill 11 will allow Currently, students with higher education institutions concealed handgun licenses to establish rules or regulacan leave handguns in their tions prohibiting the carrying vehicles, preferably out of sight. of weapons on parts of camConcealed handgun
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licensees must still abide by Texas Penal Code 46 regarding places where carrying of a handgun by license holders is unlawful. Examples are amusement parks, an established place of religious worship and businesses that derive 51 percent or more of income from the sale or service of alcoholic beverages. It also includes businesses with properly posted signs prohibiting it. State Rep. Larry Phillips, R-Sherman, is the author of House Bill 910, and state Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, is the author of State Bill 11. House Bill 910 will take effect Jan. 1, which will make Texas the 45th state to allow open carry in public.
Prem
4 • www.theranger.org/premiere
Same-sex marriage a dream come true for couple By Cynthia M. Herrera
cherrera151@student.alamo.edu
File
After dating more than four years, Monica Alvarado and Leigh Young began talking in early June about getting married — not knowing that just weeks later, the Supreme Court would legalize same-sex marriage across the nation. Marriage makes them feel equal to other couples, Young said. “You can say ‘wife,’ not ‘my partner,’” they said simultaneously. “Because it’s like no one uses that term except for gay people, you know,” Young said. “Who says that? Except like for a business partner, so it’s like I don’t necessarily want to use that; I would rather say wife. And now there is no argument about that, that it’s real.” The couple has four cats, two cars and a newly minted marriage license. “Even though that document will legitimize our relationship, it doesn’t make us love each other more than we did, but I do feel like it’s a difference,” Young said. Alvarado, a 29-year-old software designer, is the former president of Northeast Lakeview College’s Outloud, now the Gay-Straight Alliance. Young, 39, is an engineer at an automotive manufacturing facility in San Antonio. They wed Sept. 19 at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Thirty guests attended the wedding, conducted by a justice of the peace. They would like to honeymoon in Canada so they can visit Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seattle. Alvarado went to Virginia to attend Hollins University 2004-2006. She then came back to San Antonio to study business at Northeast Lakeview College 2008-2010. She transferred to the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2011 and graduated in 2013 with a bach-
elor’s degree in information systems. Young graduated from the University of Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in engineering. They met on the online dating site OkCupid and dated for 4 1/2 years, discussing their life plans before getting engaged. Although they said they agreed to get married, Young admitted she was the one who popped the question. They went ring-shopping afterward. “We both went to the jewelry store,” Young said. “To pick up the rings,” they said together. “It wasn’t a surprise. It was a joint asking each other to marry,” Young said. “And me asking ‘are the rings ready yet? Where are the rings? They said three weeks,’” Alvarado said, laughing. They said being married feels the same yet different. “It feels the same, we still love each other and we still live together and we still include each other on neutralized decisions,” Alvarado said. Because of their age gap, the experience they had in coming out was different. Alvarado said she came out in high school, Young said she came out after college. “Mine was later and I think that’s probably common for people my age,” Young said. “Like people didn’t come out in high school at my age, and I didn’t really come out till after college. I feel like you can tell the difference in the ages of people or kind of guess on when they came out. It’s starting a lot younger now, and it’s better accepted.” Young said people who are gay should let friends and family know, if they haven’t already because it makes it easier. She also said they should feel comfortable in their environment. “I think it’s hard the longer you wait,” she said. “Do it earlier than later. It does get harder.” The couple said they had planned to marry in Denver before the Supreme Court ruling June 26. The 14th Amend-
Campus, gay bars share avenue Bartender says the strip is attracting a younger crowd. By Wally Perez
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
This college has been a neighbor to gay and lesbian clubs for many years. These 21-and-over clubs are located on North Main Avenue, known as the “Strip,” and range from dance clubs to Irish pubs. “Over the course of 20 years, the strip has expanded and become a home to gay bars, creating a ‘gay-borhood’ like other cities such as Austin or Dallas,” Pegasus bartender Jordan Sanchez said. Sanchez has worked there 10 years. “Since I started working here, the biggest change other than the development of the area, has been the crowd,” Sanchez said. “The bar seems to attract a younger crowd now.” Nowadays phone applications like Grindr, a dating app for gay men, or similar websites have somewhat taken over the experience of meeting people at clubs, he said. “People would rather talk to someone online than in person, which doesn’t just apply to the gay community,” Sanchez said. Sanchez said he hopes to start a college night in the next few weeks on Wednesdays. The Silver Dollar Saloon, 1812 N. Main Ave.,
promotes itself as a gay cowboy club. The club features line dancing, two-stepping and drag queens. Country and Tejano music are played every night, with karaoke on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The saloon will host a talent night Oct. 13. The saloon is open 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Visit www.facebook.com/pages/silver-dollarsaloon/111759552196004. The dance club Heat, 1500 N. Main Ave., is open 9 p.m.-3 a.m. — or later most nights — Wednesday-Saturday. The club features midnight shows that range from drag performances to strip shows and themed music nights. Visit www.heatsa.com. Sparky’s Pub is an old English-style pub, billed as a “gay-rish” pub on its website, with daily drink specials as well as a café and wine bar. Pool tables and dartboards are also available. Located at 1416 N. Main Ave., the café is open daily for lunch at 11 a.m., while the pub is open from 3 p.m.-2 a.m. every day. Visit www.sparkyspub.com. Pegasus opened in 1994. The club offers seven areas and theme bars ranging from country to sports, as well as karaoke and video bars, where guests can request music. Pegasus is at 1402 N. Main Ave. and is open from 2 p.m.-2 a.m. daily. Visit www.pegasussanantonio.com.
ment to the U.S. Constitution now requires all states to issue licenses for same-sex couples and acknowledge them as married. Alvarado and Young were at work that day and said friends passed them the news. “People were excited,” Young said. “I mean everyone at this point has friends who are gay or family members who are gay, and I think that the majority of people are happy.” They said they have not encountered any discrimination because they are gay. “We never had any issues,” Young said. “I guess we’re lucky because obviously a lot of people do now. Even though it’s legal to get married, that still doesn’t mean that everyone is welcoming with open arms, but we luckily have not had any issues while we’ve been together.” Alvarado said the only problem they had before marriage was adding each other’s name to car titles to get a discount on car insurance. “We couldn’t consider ourselves married since we couldn’t even get married,” Alvarado said. “Like there’s no way we could be like, ‘Oh, we’re married; we can do this.’” They said they did not have any problems from county clerks on the Friday they went to get their marriage license. “There didn’t seem to be any reservation or anything like that from the clerks in the office,” Young said. As the couple sat on the couch in their home, their front neighbor’s children were playing and yelling outside. The couple agreed simultaneously they did not want to have any children. “It’s not for us; we have so many cats,” Alvarado said, chuckling. Young pointed her chin toward the window. “You see those kids that are over there?” she said. “We can see them, they’ll start fighting and crying here soon. … And then the parents will just be like ‘uhhh’.” Alvarado stroked a black cat that lay across their laps on the couch. “That’s good enough,” Alvarado said.
Monica Alvarado, former Northeast Lakevie Leigh Young, pose after their wedding Sept. 1 Alvarado plans to legally change her last nam
Leigh Young, left, and Monica Alvarado w 19 at the San Antonio Botanical Garden afte years. Alvarado is a former Northeast Lakevie president of Outloud, a gay and lesbian advo
miere
were legally married Sept. er being together for 4 1/2 ew student, where she was ocacy group. Melissa Luna
Coming Out Week celebrates marriage equality By Tress-Marie Landa sac-ranger@alamo.edu
A year ago this week, international studies Professor, Jonathan Lee, predicted marriage would soon be legal for gays and lesbians in the U.S. “I never thought I’d have the right to be married,” he said during his “Gays in America” lecture for this college’s 2014 Coming Out Week. “I still don’t, but I will soon.” He was right. Today, as he prepares for this year’s Coming Out Week Oct. 12-16, Lee reflects on a sea change over the summer. The Supreme Court on June 26 ruled 5-4 in favor of same-sex marriage. “During last year’s events, I told the audience that I would be getting married before this year’s Coming Out Week,” Lee said. “And we did, in July.” With a timely theme of marriage equality, this week’s events will include an opening ceremony by Dr. Jothany Blackwood, vice president of academic success, at 10 a.m. Monday in the mall. Dr. Vicky Elias, sociology professor at Texas A&M University–San Antonio, will give the presentation “How Did This Happen? Deconstructing Change in What We Call Marriage” 10:50 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. Tuesday in Room 122 of Chance Academic Center. Elias will discuss today’s different types of families and the changes of gender roles in society, she said. “A lot of people are shocked at how different families are today, with same-sex marriage and young people deciding not to get married, the high divorce rate,” Elias said. Today’s society must accept that families are no longer just a biologically related mother, father and children. “What is family?” she said, “(It) is a question that every generation is forced to face,
forced to answer. Children will answer differently than their parents. Their children will answer differently than them. What we call family is ever changing. It is a broader definition now. It is who we take care of, who we share our memories with; it is not just blood related.” “People assume that what they have experienced in their own family is normal,” she said. “And what I hope to show is that is not a safe assumption.” The presentation will conclude with a luncheon 12:10 p.m. to 1 p.m. in Room 122 of Chance. A screening of the documentary “Valentine Road” will be 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday in Room 101 of Longwith Radio, Television, and Film Building. The documentary focuses on eighth-grader Larry King, murdered by a classmate for being gay. A Q-&-A with LGBT activists will follow the film. Drag Bingo will bring local performers from the Main Avenue strip and other areas 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday in the Fiesta Room of Loftin Student Center. A speaker from BEAT AIDS Thursday will help students understand how to practice safe sex, prevent sexu-
ally transmitted diseases and learn to cope with diseases such as HIV. The time and place will be announced on display monitors around the campus or at www.alamo. edu/sac. Ann Margaret Trujillo, associate director of the Center for Inclusion and Community Engagement the University of Texas at San Antonio, will discuss the ways to create a better workplace or academic environment that encourages equality and supports the LGBT community. The event known as “Ally Training” will take place from 11 a.m. to noon Friday in Room 122 of Chance. Lee, a keynote speaker at past Coming Out Weeks, said, “In my experience, what has been most beneficial for our college’s LGBT population has been the leadership provided by our administration, both past and present. Dr. Robert Zeigler (former president of this college) was a great champion for us.” Attending these events can be helpful even for those who are not homosexual, he said. People who have a family member or friend who might be struggling with their sexuality or coming out to their peers can learn from participating during Coming Out Week. “These events let those struggling know they are not alone. Everyone comes out at their own time and pace and everyone should be allowed to tell their story when they are ready,” Lee said. “My husband and I both came out at different times and in different manners to our families.” Lee described his reflections soon after the historic same-sex marriage ruling. “When the Supreme Courts overturned the ban on same-sex marriage last summer, I walked through the grocery store later that day and looked at all the little children who are never going to understand what it was like when we as a society denied marriage equality to a few and just how much society has changed since Anita Bryant’s crusade against LGBT in the ’70s when I was a little boy.” For more information, call Lee at 210486-1097 or email jlee@alamo.edu. elipa
After the Supreme Court’s ruling on same-sex marriage this year, the LGBT community has a new cheer: ‘Love wins.’
Illustrati on by Ale xandra N
ew student, and her wife, 19 at the Botanical Garden. me to Young. Courtesy
Oct. 12, 2015 • 5
News
6 • Oct. 12, 2015
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ranger Editor Cynthia M. Herrera
Managing Editor Melissa Luna Assistant Managing Editor – News Kyle R. Cotton Assistant Managing Editor – Features Richard Montemayor Calendar Editor Alyssa Zapata Staff Writers Cassi Armstrong, Matthew Cuevas, Alejandro Diaz, Ryan A. Flournoy, V.G. Garlisi, Giselle Guadron, Ty-Eshia Johnson, Robert Limon, Tress-Marie Landa, Roberto Martinez, Hannah Norman, Courtney R. Kaiser, Wally Perez, Maritza Ramirez, Evelyn Reyes, Gabriela Rodriguez, Kyle Sanders Photographers Daniel Carde, E. David Guel, Danielle Kelly Photo Team Tiffany Anne Bermea, April Dawn Genao, Katelynn Alexa Garcia, Derrick Patron, Hillary E. Ratcliff Illustrators Juan Carlos Campos, Alexandra Nelipa Production Manager Katherine Garcia Copy Editor Carlos Ferrand Distribution Manager Shelly Delgado ©2015 by The Ranger staff, San Antonio College, 1819 N. Main Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212-3941. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. The Ranger news outlets, which serve the Alamo Community College District, are laboratory projects of journalism classes in the Department of Media Communications at San Antonio College. The Ranger is published Mondays except during summer, holidays and examinations. The Ranger Online is available at www.theranger. org. News contributions accepted by telephone (210-486-1773), by fax (210-486-9292), by email (sac-ranger@alamo.edu) or at the editorial office (Room 212 of Loftin Student Center). Advertising rates available by phone 210-4861765 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 emailed to sac-ranger@alamo.edu. Letters also may be brought to the newspaper office in Room 212 of Loftin Student Center, mailed to The Ranger, Department of Media Communications, San Antonio College, 1819 N. Main Ave., San Antonio TX 78212-3941 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.
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Child care center promotes open spots despite full capacity Spots open if parents don’t meet state qualifications. By V.G. Garlisi
Though this college’s child care center is full, it still accepts applications. Meanwhile, the public relations department’s weekly e-newsletters continued to promote “open spots” at the center until Sept. 24. Applicants go on a waiting list, which currently has 10 students on it. Kerry-Ann Nnamani, a computer engineering freshman, said she was unaware of the waiting list when she applied nearly three weeks ago. “I’m a single parent of two and I don’t have anyone to help out, and with my daughter being so young, I’m scared to put her in day care,” Nnamani said. “My son didn’t start day care until he was able to talk so he could tell me if someone hit him.” Teresa Robledo, an early childhood teacher at the early childhood center, said the program accepts applications all year even if they are full. “We don’t have openings, but we continue to accept applications,” Robledo said. “Some parents drop because they cannot meet the requirements for the program, so we have a waiting list of student parents who are qualified.” According to the application, students must complete five requirements to be considered for the reduced weekly rate of $25-$35. They must attend parenting workshops, volunteer four hours each semester at the center, be enrolled in a minimum of nine credit hours, have parent-teacher conferences and have a GPA higher than 2.0. The requirements are part of the Child Care Access Means Parents in School Program administered by the U.S. Department of Education. According to Norma Padilla, student generalist in early childhood studies, the grant is based on
income. “We do an income tax assessment to determine if the student can receive the $25-$35 a week rate,” Padilla said. “We also have off-campus services since we are so full. Parents can take their children into these accredited institutions for our reduced rate.” Padilla said students are disappointed when they are not able to secure a spot for their child. A Sept. 24 e-newsletter from this college’s PR office announced: “We currently have spots open at our Child Care Education Center on W. Ashby for SAC students!” The PR newsletter publishes the ad because the program accepts applications past its space availability, PR coordinator Lindsay Campbell said. The Oct. 1 PR newsletter did not include the child care item. Students who have children can apply to the Early Childhood Care and Education Assistance program or the Early Head Start program. The early childhood studies program has 53 openings per semester for the children of incoming students at this college as well as 32 openings in the Early Head Start program. All are currently full, and 18 children are in the off-campus service. With the exception of a few students in the program, most parents are able to take advantage of the reduced weekly rate, Robledo said. The full rate is $179 for a preschool child ages 3-5 to $191 for infants and toddlers up to age 3. The price difference is based on the amount of care required per child. Dr. Ellen Marshall, chair of early childhood studies, said younger children require around-the-clock supervision, changing tables and accessories as well as designated areas for the infants to rest. Marshall said the center had to reduce its expenditures in 2009
VIEWPOINT
Don’t hide yourself with family, friends
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Education freshman Amber Auclair holds the car door open for her son Brett, 3, while leaving day care Sept. 30 at the early childhood center. Alice, 5, came along to pick up her brother in his first semester of day care. E. David Guel because of the high cost of caring for infants. The original estimated cost of the program was $800,000 to $900,000, Alamo Colleges District 9 trustee James Rindfuss said in an Oct. 16, 2009, Ranger story. As a result, the early childhood center partnered with a federally funded program called Early Head Start. The program’s aim is to provide children ages 0-3 with a stable environment where they can learn and be nurtured while away from home. “We decided to partner with the Early Head Start program so that they could use our building and we would reduce our cost,” Marshall said. “They also strictly cater to SAC students, so that is a win-win for those on this campus.” Mirka Cardona, an early childhood studies freshman, takes advantage of her major’s programs while she attends this college full time. She brings her 6-month-old daughter to the Early Head Start
Coming out is scary but needs to be done for peace of mind. It was my first year in high school when I began to think, “What if I’m gay?” A lot of my friends were in the process of getting girlViewpoint friends, walking around holdby Evelyn ing hands with other girls and Reyes telling people they were gay. Some of them really were. sac-ranger@ alamo.edu Others seemed to be going through a phase, experimenting almost because it was the “in” thing to do. I was afraid because deep down inside, I knew my feelings were real. Once I announced them to the world, there was no turning back. I kept thinking, “What is going to happen if I tell my family?” “What if they disown me?” The stress of not knowing how they might react was completely visible. I was tired because I was sleeping no more than four hours a night, and I would eat maybe once a day. I knew who I was, but I was terrified to come out and talk about it to anyone — until I met someone who made me feel good about myself. This girl was able to talk to me and let me know that not only was I not crazy for having feelings for another girl, but most important, it was natural and perfectly safe. I met Jasmine by accident. She was on the
junior varsity girls basketball team and was a sophomore when I was a freshman. She didn’t even know me when she stood up to my first girlfriend, another basketball player who was cheating on me. Jasmine ultimately became my first real girlfriend, and I even brought her home and introduced her to my mother. My mother was angry when I brought Jasmine home. She yelled at me, “Why don’t you just come out and say it?” I was stunned. This was the first time I had brought my girlfriend home, but I had hinted to my mom that I might be bisexual. Months before, I had gone to my mother and said, “You know those feelings you have for a boy? What if you have those feelings for a girl? What does that make you?” So my mom had a hunch. Still, by the time I brought my girlfriend home, this was how my mother reacted. Without thinking, I told her, “Fine mom, I’m a lesbian.” After this conversation, my mother and I became very distant for almost two years. I wasn’t able to take part in normal teen things like sweet 16 or quinceañera because my mom was really religious. Sleepovers were out of the question because she didn’t want me sleep-
program. “It definitely makes everything easier,” Cardona said. “I find them more trustworthy, and communication is so great between teachers and parents, which I appreciate.” Cardona is one of 85 students who take advantage of the program, but student parents on the waiting list must find alternative means for child care such as private day care services or relatives willing to look after the child. Padilla said students must apply early, as soon as they enroll at this college, to secure a spot. “We start accepting applications during open scheduling every semester,” Padilla said. “I recommend getting them in as soon as possible, because it takes at least three weeks to process applications.” For more information, call 210486-0500 or 210-486-0526.
ing with other girls. My dad took the news quite well, and while my mother and I became more and more distant, my father and I grew much closer. My mother and I weren’t able to repair our relationship until I had a horrible breakup my junior year in high school. I was very depressed and began losing myself, which included cutting. Finally, my mom had enough and took me to a hospital to get help. After I was released from the hospital, my mother was there, making sure I was taking my medication on time and taking me to my doctor’s appointments. Soon I was able to sleep and eat normally. It took some time, but I was able to get my life back. It’s been at least 10 years since I finally came out to my family, but in the end everything worked out for the better. My current girlfriend, Jennifer, now lives with my mother, brother and me. My mother even worries when Jennifer doesn’t come home. It’s even funnier to hear my mom tell me she made a special dinner for Jennifer because she knows how picky Jennifer can be. Living together isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. In fact, we’re just like any other family where we all work to get things done and take care of one another. I am happy I was able to get this out in the open, and I am proud to call myself a lesbian.
Pulse
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Oct. 12, 2015 • 7
Breast cancer awareness highlighted at Ranger opener Women’s team will dispense candy for the Halloween game against Palo Alto Oct. 28. By Alyssa Zapata
azapata84@student.alamo.edu
The women’s basketball team will be raising money for Susan G. Komen San Antonio by donating money from the admission fee and sale of raffle tickets for gift cards during their season opener at the 6 p.m. home game Oct. 14 against Victoria College. The team won each game of their scrimmage matches Oct. 4 against Northwest Vista College, St. Edward’s University and Palo Alto College. Northwest Vista was a team they did not beat last year, head coach Haley Capestany said. Capestany, returning for her second year coaching here, said she chose to coach at this college because she thinks people usually don’t expect to see much talent from Alamo Colleges, but she can change that. Capestany said the program here is getting stronger, and Marisa Martinez, student success specialist, has helped provide equipment and works with the team to get things done in a timely manner. “In community colleges,
you get the kids that didn’t get a chance to go play at a four-year university, but a lot of them have the potential,” Capestany said. “So what I set out to do was help them get to the next level or give them that chance to play again and be a part of the team.” Capestany’s goal is to show that there is more to Alamo Colleges athletes than people see, and she is building the program by teaching each detail of basketball and breaking down plays to show them all options, she said. Capestany has coached summer leagues, Amateur Athletic Union teams and youth leagues. She was a point guard and played nationally with an AAU team, Texas A&M UniversityKingsville and the University of the Incarnate Word. Capestany teaches her team management skills, discipline, dedication and practice makes perfection. “Coach is tough on us, but I have respect for her because she knows what she is talking about,” said Cheyenne Baxa, team captain and kinesiology sophomore. “We did good in our scrim-
mage tournament, but we didn’t do great because we’re still building a relationship of trust since it is our first time playing together.” For tryouts this year, 40-50 players turned out, but the team was cut to 13 women. “The players this semester are amazing, and they have the will to win, great chemistry on the court, great respect and they work hard,” Capestany said. Capestany thinks the team’s chemistry will set them apart from their opponents. “During warmups before a game, they take it seriously and know it’s game time,” Capestany said. “I noticed other teams are very lazy in warmup, but not my team.” Destiny Solis, kinesiology freshman and first-time player for the Rangers, says the team performance is improving because as they recognize weaknesses, they work on it. “We have a great coach who is pushing us a lot, and our three returning players have welcomed us and help us improve,” Solis said. The team’s biggest opponent will be Victoria College, Capestany said. Solis said, “They better be ready for us ’cause we’re coming for them.” Baxa said, “I’m ready to go
Sports medicine freshman Donavan Merrill lobs a shot as St. Edward’s University blocks Nov. 5. File hard and win.” The women’s next game will be 6 p.m. Oct. 21 at Incarnate Word, and the team will hand out candy to fans for the Halloween game Oct. 28. “I just hope the school comes out and supports us,” Capestany said. “The girls work hard, and the support will help the momentum of the game because I know it did for me.” Call 210-486-0129. Communications sophomore Shannon Villanueva loses the ball after battling the defense of UIW Oct. 22. File
2015
vie or Mo Outdo t 8:45 pm a Starts
ACTIVITIES INCLUDE Departmental Showcase De Olympic-Style Boxing Outdoor Movie “Marvel’s ANT-MAN” Live Music by Pinata Protest Michael Jackson Impersonator Food Booths/Trucks Planetarium Shows Animal Show Game Zone Bungee Run Gladiator Joust Sumo Wrestling
Premiere
8 • Oct. 12, 2015
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Staff Council gears up for giving J.T. Brackenridge will benefit this year from the Christmas Angel Tree. By Richard Montemayor
rmontemayor15@student.alamo.edu
With the holiday season right around the corner, this college’s Staff Council is planning its giving for the holidays. On Oct. 2, members of Staff Council met to plan holiday season events. Jacob Martinez, director of student conduct at this college, emailed Jennifer Maestas, principal of J.T. Brackenridge Elementary School, for a list of names for the Angel Tree, he said. Martinez knows that the school has over 700 students. A concern that Martinez has is what if they run out of gifts
for the children? Dana Morris, senior multimedia specialist, suggested gift bags as a backup. Dee Dixon, senior multimedia specialist, suggested combining the Angel Tree and a turkey raffle event on a Friday in November. The council agreed and the combined event was set for 2:30-3:30 p.m. Nov. 13 in the Fiesta Room of Loftin Student Center. “We will start wrapping at 3:30-8 p.m. on Dec. 3, 4, 10 and 11 in Room 643 of Moody Learning Center with distribution the following week,” Dixon said. Students and faculty have until Dec. 3 to drop off their gifts, and anyone can volunteer for gift wrapping. They just need to contact Dixon, Martinez said. Call Dixon at 210-486-0598 or email ldixon4@alamo.edu.
In other news, fliers for the Christmas cubicle decorating contest will be distributed Nov. 1, Morris said. “That will give everyone a month, with judging starting on Dec. 1. That would give them plenty of time to think of an idea to decorate,” Morris said. This year’s awards for the decorating contest in the offices and group category include a pizza party for first place and cakes for secondplace. For individual entries in first-place, a gift basket and second-place, a stocking filled with goodies, she said. The next Staff Council meeting is at 2:30 p.m. Oct. 16 in the employee lounge of Loftin.