The Collegian -- Published Feb. 21, 2014 by The Collegian

thecollegian Issue 9 • Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

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INSIDE

Challenges of preparing for transfer Page 4

NEW, LONGER BUSES DEBUT IN STOCKTON Vehicles now running down Pacific Avenue corridor, serving students

by sonya herrera news@deltacollegian.net

Preview to the Academy Awards Page 6

Lady Mustangs start off season strong Page 7

UPCOMING Softball vs. Napa Valley College Feb. 22, admission is $6 Self Defense Workshop on Feb. 24, @ 2:30 p.m. in Budd 210

FIND US

San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD) debuted the first of its six new articulated Express buses on Tuesday to serve increasing ridership along Route 40. The longer buses provide more space, a relief to riders who had to stand during Route 40's busiest hours. RTD's Manager of Service Development Nate Knodt said the change was a necessary response to increased use of the 40 Express route. Knodt said between fiscal years 2011 and 2013, Route 40's "average daily ridership on a weekday jumped from about 2,700 to about 4,800." The Stockton route runs from Hammer Lane to RTD’s

Downtown Transit Center from 5:40 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays. Riders were pleased upon hearing of the development. However, many Delta students questioned the effects of the bus articulation. Ashlee Liebig worried RTD will increase its fare rates as a result of the expenditure. "They are always complaining that they don't have enough money," said Liebig. "So how do they have enough money to PHOTOS BY SONYA HERRERA make these buses?" NO NEED TO STAND: Stockton gets larger buses for the 40 Route to According to RTD spokes- make room for the extra passengers. man Paul Rapp, 88 percent of the articulation cost was Each bus extension costs ap- a 40-foot bus," said Rapp. "It's funded by the Congestion and proximately $1 million. How- still one bus driver." Mitigation Air Quality Im- ever, Rapp said the buses' operaKnodt agrees the decision to provement Program; the rest tional costs remain low. articulate was fiscally sound. was paid for by funds collected "It doesn't cost any more to "You're probably getting through California’s Proposi- run a 60-foot bus—well, in thecontinued on PAGE 8 tion 1B. ory, as far as labor costs—than

Scattered waste leaves campus unsightly by alexis bustamante news@deltacollegian.net

Litter is all over campus. We all see it. But what does Delta College do to fix the problem? Groundskeepers on the Delta campus have a tough job. 21 custodians are tasked with picking up after 19,000 students, staff and faculty. Their jobs involve: sweeping sidewalks, mowing lawns, raking leaves, picking up litter, helping with maintenance, tending to the vegetation, including hedges and flowers according to the college website. The work is nonstop. Even though the groundskeepers are responsible for many jobs, recent developments in the past couple years has hampered the abilities of the current groundskeepers to match the needs of an ever-growing college. "We used to have 28 custo-

dians then a retirement program came and many retired, [which] left the custodial team with 20 and I just recently hired one so now we have 21 custodians to maintain all of the campus including the new buildings," said Salvador Rodriguez custodial manager. Even though the school is retiring more groundskeepers than hiring new ones students' own personal responsibilities should be accounted for as well. "We're in college we need to be accountable and clean up after ourselves. Our campus is very unique by the way it is built," said student Patrice Burke. Although trash is a problem there can be simple solutions to the littering problems at Delta. Trash isn’t a fun subject but many colleges across the United States and Canada are in competition to help raise awareness of recycling such as RecycleMania. RecycleMania is "a friendly

competition and benchmarking tool for college and university recycling programs to promote waste reduction activities to their campus communities." During an eight-week period each spring, colleges report the amount of recycling and trash collected each week and are ranked in various categories based on who recycles the most on a per capita basis, as well as which schools have the best recycling rate as a percentage of total waste and which schools generate the least amount of combined trash and recycling, according to the RecycleMania website. Winning schools receive an award made out of recyclable materials, and win the right to host that category’s special traveling trophy for the coming year. "It would be good to have Delta nice and clean, the competition sounds fun," said Student Angel Mariano.

PHOTO BY ALEXIS BUSTAMANTE

CLEANING UP AFTER DELTA: Refuse sits in the grass, abandoned and left for the facilities.

opinion

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

EDITORIAL

Reasons to be proud to attend Delta College

hy is it as Delta College students we tend to feel ashamed that we go here? "I just go to Delta," we apologize. We’ve all been guilty of that self-imposed shame. But why do the students view Delta under such a negative lens? Sure, there may be those here that simply take advantage of the campus; people who meander taking courses that could be deemed easy in order to help get their financial aid, but we could argue other establishments also have people willing to take advantage of a good thing. Community Colleges have a stigma. "They’re not a real college," or "It’s just high school with smoking sections," are classic put downs, though soon the latter will no longer be true. It’s as if the culture surrounding us thinks you’re automatically a loser once enrolled. We shouldn’t look at Delta this way.

We should realize the amazing opportunities this campus allows students. We’re all unique. We can’t compare our successes and failures with one another. Many of us didn’t know what we wanted to do with our lives when high school ended. Some didn’t have the grades to get scholarships that paid for everything. A campus such as Delta allows us to figure out who we want to be. It gives us a chance to explore. It's pretty inexpensive, especially compared to traditional four-year colleges. If you’re at a four-year college with tuition and loans, you can be locked into one thing, then end up finding out you hate it. A student can risk going further in debt trying to figure out what he or she wants to do. The 1990s pop tune "Everybody's Free (to wear Sunscreen)" sums it up best: "Don’t be ashamed if you don’t know

what you want to do with your life." Why? Because, as the song continues, "some of the most interesting people" don't know at 22 what they want to do with their lives. Some, at 40, still don't. Some have said Delta is a continuation school, a place for lost souls, failed seekers, former criminals and older folk looking to continue the education never finished. There's no problem with that. There is something commendable about a campus that allows individuals to try and make a change. We need to feel proud that we are here at Delta, not ashamed. No matter what, we have continued on with our education in hopes of bettering our futures. We may have to be juggling jobs and school at the expense of less than stellar paychecks and little to no social life. But we must remember what it’s all for.

Popular song sends innapropriate messages to listeners by santana juache news@deltacollegian.net

lmost everyone has heard Beyonce’s new song featuring Jay-Z called “Drunk in Love.” By now, you are probably sick of it. According to the Billboard Hot 100, it dropped from No. 1 to position No. 8 recently. In the lyrics, Beyonce is professing her sexual desire for Jay-Z, her husband, after a night of drinking. She says he can’t keep his eyes off “her fatty”, and that they woke up on the kitchen floor, which is revealing enough, until Jay-Z comes in with his lines. You can’t miss the next part. It’s loud and clear. But you can miss the reference if you aren’t familiar

with it. "I’m Ike Turner. Baby, know I don’t play. Now, eat the cake, Anna Mae. Say, eat the cake Anna Mae," raps Jay-Z. Ike and Tina Turner were a musical duo back in the 1960s, with a turbulent marriage to put it lightly. Anna Mae Bullock is Tina Turner’s real name. The line is referencing a scene from the movie about Tina Turner’s life, called "What’s Love Got to Do with It?" In the scene, Ike and Tina are at a restaurant with some friends. Two children approach Tina for her autograph. They do not approach Ike. He becomes extremely jealous, and says they should celebrate "their" success. He has the waitress bring over a cake. Ike cuts a piece and offers it to Tina, saying, "Come

on, Anna Mae." She refuses. He continues to insist, and when she yet again refuses, he smashes the cake onto her face and smothers her in it, cooing: "Eat the cake." It’s one of the most traumatizing scenes in an already hard film to watch. Tina Turner is physically abused and utterly humiliated. It’s important to know what we are listening to and be able to think critically about what is being presented before us. It is used as a metaphor in Beyonce’s song: it is tasteless, and out of place. It takes a pretty enjoyable song and with one line it derails itself. Art is meant to be a platform for self-expression, but when it hurts other people, it’s not okay. It is an insult to all domestic violence victims.

THE COLLEGIAN — SPRING 2014 Editor/feature editor Chris Howze News editor Justin Tristano Sports editor Jermaine Davis Copy/entertainment editor Kenneth Huntley Opinion editor Heidi Sharp

Staff Alexis Bustamante Eric Carranza Monica Gomez Sonya Herrera Michael Johnson Robert Juarez Santana Juache Orlando Jose Seth Lowman Eleanor Mafi Sean Mendoza Sean Reilly Richard Reyes Diane Rivera Adviser Tara Cuslidge-Staiano

Advertising The Collegian offers display advertising at competitive rates. Call (209) 954-5156 or email deltacollegian@gmail.com for more information. Letters to the editor Letters raising issues and opinions not represented by the newspaper are encouraged, but should not be taken as a reflection of the opinions of the staff or adviser. Editorial Unsigned editorials reflect the position of the entire Collegian staff.

Comments, letters and editorials with a byline represent the opinion of the writer, solely. This paper does not endorse or represent the opinions of the adviser, the mass communication department, the Fine Arts Division, the printer or San Joaquin Delta College administration.

Mission statement The Collegian is a student run First Amendment newspaper that prides itself on its commitment to the students of San Joaquin Delta College while maintaining its independence of any outside influence. The Collegian will reinvigorate the credo that the newspaper speaks for the students, checks abuses of power and stands vigilant in the protection of democracy and free speech.

opinion

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

Bathrooms in Calif. made unisex

two little lines

Law passed by Gov. Jerry Brown progresses trasngender rights by robert juarez news@deltacollegian.net

ue to a new law known as AB1266 passed by Gov. Jerry Brown last August, transgender students in public schools are now allowed to use whatever restroom they see fit. Once the clock struck midnight and the New Year began, children and teenagers who identify themselves as the opposite sex were given permission to use these bathrooms. The new law also makes sex-segregated sports teams co-ed. Young men who believe they would be more comfortable playing softball rather than baseball because of the dip in testosterone are free to do so. The U.S. Government is hoping this will raise comfort and lower bullying for transgender students. "Now, every transgender student in California will be able to get up in the morning knowing that when they go to school as their authentic self they will have the same fair chance at success as their teammates," said by

Masen Davis, Executive Director of Transgender Law Center. The main purpose of this law is to give transgender students a sense of freedom. They won’t be kept from doing what they feel is right. Obviously there are a lot of people criticizing Brown for allowing this law to pass. Conservatives across the state are outraged this bill was even thought of. "This radical bill warps the gender expectations of children by forcing all California public schools to permit biological boys in girls restrooms, showers, clubs and on girls sports teams and biological girls in boys restrooms, showers, clubs and sports teams,” said by Randy Thompson of savecalifornia.com. “This is insanity." Opponents of the new law went as far as starting a petition known as "Privacy for All Students – Stop AB1266." If successful the petition will put

the law in the November 2014 ballot to give the citizens a chance to decide whether the law will go into place. "This is a predictable move by fringe groups that oppose all proequality measures and that historically have lacked the capacity to successfully execute similar efforts," said by executive director of Equality California John O’Connor when responding to the petition. O’Connor countered by starting a website known as supportallstudents.org, the site includes resources to better understand the lifestyles of transgender students. The resources include personal stories and recent news. This bill has brought happiness among the transgender society and has given government a sense of progress. However, with all great decisions, comes great criticism. This move has also given the rest of the public a sense of intrusion. This law will test just how far along we are at connecting the heterosexual and homosexual people. This can be a big step in our process of becoming one community rather than two.

from having to use a public restroom. The urinals in the restroom aren’t to dispose of paper towels, toilet paper or garbage. Use the garbage cans so the floor doesn’t get wet. Men, this is a serious one: have you heard of flushing after you’re done? I don’t care if you don’t want to touch the handle of the toilet, kick it with your shoe if you have to. It’s called respect. And hey you, yeah you—the one who didn’t wash his hands after using the restroom: I hope you aren’t serving food, getting ready or working with clay in the ceramics class. That’s nasty, wash your hands. The restrooms are freshly renovated, they have soap in the soap dispensers now. Now that we’re over the cleanliness rules of the restroom, it’s time to talk etiquette.

While using the restroom, don’t communicate with each other. It’s a simple "Fight Club" style rule. Don’t talk to each other while using the restroom. Men are there to do something, finish what they are doing and leave. This rule also applies to talking on the phone. I don’t think the person on the other end of the line is going to appreciate hearing you relieve yourself, especially if it’s your spouse, family or boss. That phone call can wait, just turn the phone to vibrate. Do your business and leave. As I said, Delta College just spent millions of dollars renovating the restrooms, the best we can do is follow the mens’ unspoken rules to keep a restroom cleaned. You wouldn’t live in such filth in your own home would you?

Editor gives clear instructions on proper men's bathroom etiquette on campus by kenneth huntley news@deltacollegian.net

kay guys, its time to have a man-to-man talk. Scratch that, its time to get

real. There have always been unspoken golden rules of the restroom. These rules have gone ignored long enough at Delta College. First, the cleanliness. Come on, I know we’re not as clean as our female counterparts, but men, we should be ashamed for being slobs. Delta spent millions renovating the restrooms. I’m talking to the guys who are too lazy to lift the toilet seat lids up. Take some tissue and lift the seat up. Other men don’t want to accidentally sit on a wet toilet seat after downing a Danner Hall burrito. We’re already under enough stress

pregnant with heidi sharp

Mood swings inconvenient, but can be used to advantage

Heidi Sharp, 22, is a part-time Delta College student and part-time barista. She married her high school sweetheart, Wesley, in 2012. The same year, the couple purchased their first home in Stockton. Now, thanks to two little lines on a pregnancy test, the Sharp's are expanding in July. ne of the most common stigmas about pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, are the mood swings. I’ve already experienced one. I had a great, peaceful night with my husband watching Netflix on the couch. Then, out of nowhere, I psyched myself into this crying fit about a hypothetical and unlikely situation. I was sobbing things that didn't make sense to my husband. Poor guy, right? Some days I feel wonderful, and have a blast of energy and motivation to do everything. On those days I could likely build the entire Empire State Building by myself. Other days, I am a slug who hates life and everything in it. I want to hide in my bed with my cat and never see the light of day. But in real life, we have to cope and deal with our problems and make it work. The best solution to this problem that I have found for pregnant women (and women in general I suppose) is to use your "up days" to your absolute fullest. Have a major project that needs to be done? Or do you need to get to those once-aweek chores? Get them done. I don't even care if they aren't on your "scheduled day of the week" to do them. Vacuuming is supposed to be on Wednesday but its Monday? I don't care! Do it now, because on Wednesday, when you feel like being a sloth all day long, it will not get done. When your hormones are working in your favor-use them to the full potential! Throw on an episode of TLC's "Hoarders: Buried Alive." I have found that watching this show, and using the feature on Netflix where it simply plays through the entire season without having to do anything, really motivates me to clean my entire house when I feel so inclined. Seeing those messy houses makes me want to go throw something away! So when you end up in a slump (trust me it will happen), more things will already be done. Knowing things are already done may help you feel a bit less stressed and overwhelmed while in the slump.

feature

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

Transferring brings challenges, stresses for students by seth lowman news@deltacollegian.net

"Was I accepted?" "How will I pay for all of this?" "Will I adapt to the new campus?" These are among the plethora of questions transfer students moving onto to a fouryear college ask themselves on a regular basis. The transfer process can be a stressful one, but there is help. Especially here on campus. Delta College has a variety of different workshops and guidance classes to better prepare students for their transfer journey to a four-year college. One of the counselors on campus who teaches these workshops is Dr. Stacy Robles Bagnasco. "All the students who enroll in the guidance classes, there always like 'I wish I would have taken this when I first came,'" said Bagnasco. Bagnasco makes it her duty to guide students, who might be confused about transferring or career goals, into a sufficient plan. Kelly Alcayde, a current Delta student who plans to transfer to Sacramento State University, says she has concerns about her units transferring over to her new school. Despite her concerns, Alcayde has a tool to guide her transferable units in the right direction. "I constantly check Assist.org and Sac State's catalog too because I'm paranoid that my classes won't transfer," said Alcayde. For those who don’t know, Assist. org is a great tool for students to keep up to date on the classes that will transfer over to their future university. Transferable units are just one of the many potential problems that students

face when they start to think about moving onto a four-year. The cloud that looms over most students is the expenditures they will have to endure if they want to transfer to a four-year. Delta student Simone Mingua-Lopstain has thought about the financial aspect of transferring. "I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ll have to pay loans," said MinguaLopstain.

open and will remain open until the March deadline. So with an application sent and tuition attended for, how will students make the transition from a community college to a university? Once she transfers, MinguaLopstain agrees that "it's good to be well-rounded" as she plans to network and score internships to better her chances for careers in her desired field. Mingua-Lopstain brings up a valid point. We live in a society where it’s not so much of what you know, but more so of who you know. Bagnasco offers this advice. "I just want students that come here to just really take advantage of all the opportunities," she said. "I’m always shocked on how many of them aren’t volunteering or doing internships. I think one of the biggest mistakes students make when they transfer and they get their four year degree and they can’t find a job. They’re back in my office asking me for help." Even at the community college level, it would be wise to take up an internship to gain that little extra knowledge for your dream career. Internships give you an edge other students might not have when looking for jobs. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CHRIS HOWZE Network with professionals and always stay connected with This conclusion isn't abnormal. these contacts to further your chances It’s very normal to have to take out of success in your desired field. student loans," said Bagnasco. Staying connected is essential, espeAccording to CNNMoney, the cially with your counselor. graduating class of 2013 were hit with Your counselor will be your key to an average of $26,000 in debt due to stay on track throughout the entire government loans. transfer process and will be open to anFor students whose financial needs swer questions. can’t be satisfied with loans, financial They are on campus to help and aid and Cal Grant are great ways to guide you out of Delta into the next make a dent in your costs. destination of your scholarly journey. Applications for these aids are now

GAME OVER: Latest phone game craze removed from app stores by creator by sean mendoza news@deltacollegian.net

From "Angry Birds" to "Candy Crush," there are game apps that people all over the world download on their phone and use to pass time. These games easily turned into an addiction to some, the latest addiction was "Flappy Bird." The game was created by a Vietnamese video game developer named Dong Nguyen. It quickly became one of the top free games in the Apple store and Google Play. As fast as the popularity of the game rose, Nguyen had to deal with consequences and issues. "Flappy Bird" became such an addictive and talked about game, it produced a lot of rumors around the world, including one about the creator committing suicide. A website called "Huzlers" reported the game's creator was found dead in his apartment in New York City.

Nguyen lives in Vietnam. The news went viral on Facebook and Twitter and had everyone in shock. The report was later confirmed as a hoax. Nguyen was alive and well. The game was downloaded everyday by iPhone or Android users and was reportedly earning Nguyen $50,000 a day just from advertising, according to ign.com Delta student Troy Watts got addicted to the point that it consumed his days. “Flappy Bird was such a hard game that it had you pumped up just to get at least 10 points,” he said. The game put Nguyen in the spotlight but he claims the success and the consequences coming along were overwhelming. Nguyen said it made his life stressful. Nintendo sued him for supposedly using assets from the Super Mario series. Nguyen also received death threats on social networking sites for creating the addicting game. Nguyen agreed that the game he created had be-

come terribly addicting, which led to him pulling from all the app stores on the market It can no longer be downloaded. “It’s a game that will never end, once you beat your high score, you don’t feel that it’s good enough and you just keep going and going,” said Delta student Karli Barnes. The games absence has left a hole that is being filled as I write with Flappy Bird knock offs of all sorts with such "creative" titles as Jumpy Bee, Clumsy Bird and Ironpants. The original Flappy Bird is still available to users who downloaded it but have yet to delete since the deactivation. Some more daring users have begun selling their used phones with Flappy Bird still downloaded on it for ridiculous sums of money. One iPhone 5c was on Ebay with a Buy it Now option of $40,000. Maybe it's best the addiction was nipped in the bud before “It got out of hand.”

feature

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

Delta's Manteca Farm offers hands-on experience for students by monica gomez news@deltacollegian.net

Delta College’s Manteca farm benefits students in many ways. However, there is a possibility it will be sold and relocated, which could also benefit the college. The farm provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience. If sold, Delta could use the money for maintenance projects around campus. The academic uses of the farm are important to professors. Three professors use the farm for courses. "The current status is that we use it for animal science courses, Ben Beam has a number of things going on, Todd Burnett uses it in his plant 10 course and a lab or two and I use it in my soils class," said Professor David Dodson. Delta students benefit from the experience and the learning atmosphere of the farm. Dodson said he doesn’t think the farm should be sold. "Well I don’t think we should unless we have a place an opportunity to do everything we’re doing in Manteca closer ... convenient, easy, especially for the students then fine sell it," he said. On the other hand, the Manteca Farm would bring in a lot of money for Delta in the long run. Students also agree that the Manteca

Farm is very beneficial. "I think it’s important because it helps us get a hands on experience of what we’re learning in class," said Delta student, and member of the Plant 14 class, Jasmine Granados. Delta would be able to use the money to do maintenance and a number of other projects. Jim Burkhard, the Manteca Farm manager of 13 years, offered more insight. Burkhard knows the ins and outs of the farm. "This is animal science and plant science together this is 160 acre facility, we have the almond trees here, the 40 acres of vineyards our the pastures behind here, we have our alfalfa here and our animal science unit here we have our sheep, swine, horses so it’s fairly large," said Burkhard. This facility has many different uses. Burkhard said the property is planned for surplus. If no one wants the property, it will go to an auction setting. If it does not sell at auction, Delta will retain the farm, he said. The Manteca Farm has benefits whether it stays or goes. No decisions on the future of the property have yet been made. Everyone seems to have a strong opinion about the farm. "No, I don’t think they should sell it bePHOTOS BY MONICA GOMEZ cause it’s very useful property and it would be hard to find another property with the same GETTING THEIR HANDS DIRTY: Dodson's Plant 14 class working hard, top. Animals benefits and quality," said Granados. on the farm include chickens, right, and a horse named "Red," left.

MAN ON THE STREET

What did you do for Valentine's Day?

"My boyfriend got me macaroons and we went to an art show." — Gaby Pena

"I went out and got my kid’s Valentine’s gifts and gave them to them the next day when I saw them." — Robert Duran

— compiled by richard reyes

"Bought my girlfriend Melanie, a teddy bear and chocolate, which I ate half of and then took her out to watch 'Ride Along.'" — Johnny Shultz

"My date cancelled on me because of work, so I just stayed home and watched movies on Netflix." — David Lazano

HELP FUND RTV'S MULTIMEDIAFEST CELEBRATION

The Radio/Television Department at Delta College is seeking donations to raise $2,000 for its annual presentation of MultimediaFest, which showcases the program's students. This year's festival will feature a guest appearence by Marsha Posner Williams, known for her work as a producer of The Golden Girls, and Rick Page, Camera Operator on Golden Globe winning show Brooklyn Nine-Nine. To contribute to MultimediaFest, contact Radio/Television Professors Adriana Brogger at abrogger@ deltacollege.edu or Rod Villagomez at rvillagomez@deltacollege.edu

entertainment

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

Competing for 'Best Picture'

Year's top films compete for coveted gold statue by seth lowman news@deltacollegian.net

Forrest Gump. Titanic. The Godfather. What do these films have in common - other than being landmarks in motion picture history? All have won “Best Picture” at The Academy Awards. With the show less than a month away, the race for the night’s most coveted award is on! All of the films listed below are worthy contenders to receive the award, but like 2003's "Best Picture”" said: "One ring to rule them all." In this case, the ring would be “movie.” So which movie will "rule them all?" No one knows quite yet, but here’s a look at each nominee and their odds of snatching the award. 12 YEARS A SLAVE This is a serious contender for winning the award. It has already won “Best Drama” at the Golden Globes. And aside from that, there aren’t many reasons why it wouldn’t win. It’s already being deemed a "classic" by film critics. AMERICAN HUSTLE This had one of the best ensemble casts from a film in the last year. And all of its players delivered fun and exciting performances to watch. The film’s tone is too similar to last year’s winner "Argo," so The Academy might want to shake things up this year. Aside from "Gravity," "Hustle" garnered the most nominations. Don’t count this film out. CAPTAIN PHILLIPS This was an enthralling film that was carried by Tom Hanks' amazing performance as Richard Phillips. This film has deserved its place among the other nominees, but I would not say this has a strong chance of winning. Too many pirates out in the sea for this film to reach its prized destination. DALLAS BUYERS CLUB A deeply emotional film that provided both Jared Leto and Matthew McConaughey their best performances. This film will most likely squash the competition in the acting categories, but I can’t see this film taking away the award. GRAVITY This gripping space adventure will most likely dominate in the technical categories, already securing a couple awards under its galactic belt. But winning "Best Picture" is another story ... because well, more story is what this film might have needed to be worthy. HER This unique love story between a man and his computer makes "Her" stick out like a sore thumb among the rest of the nominees. Despite its "dark horse" status, the film’s beautiful cinematography and script makes this film a worthy contender to win.

NEBRASKA Director Alexander Payne is no stranger to the Academy Awards. And this film will go down as one of his best works, but competition is too stiff this time around. The photography is immaculate and it’s definitely one of the best-looking nominees, but it hasn’t garnered enough buzz to support a win. PHILOMENA Much like "Nebraska," this film hasn’t developed a strong presence in the media. It’s unfortunate to see such a touching and powerful film being swallowed whole by the rest of the competition, but hopefully its nomination will raise awareness for this underrated movie. THE WOLF OF WALL STREET Frenetic. Shocking. Obscene. These three characteristics make this film a great one, but they also take it to a place where the Academy would not typically wander to. Odds aren’t so great for this to win, but one can hope it will put an end to the "poor Leo" campaign when he snags the award for "Best Actor" FINAL OBSERVATIONS All of these movies have very distinct personalities, which make this year’s batch of nominees a varied bunch. Like always, with a ballot in my hand and my eyes glued to the screen, I will be battling my mother with our opposing predictions of who will take awards home that night. The 86th Academy Awards will take place March 2 and will be televised on ABC at 4 p.m.

Political drama is a hit by sonya herrera news@deltacollegian.net

ouse of Cards, a political drama starring Kevin Spacey, takes place in a universe where the U.S. House of Representatives Majority Whip employs sex, murder and blackmail in his absurdly twisted and highly implausible plot to achieve higher office. More importantly, it's a darn entertaining show. A Netflix original series, House of Cards was designed to attract and retain the widest possible audience. The quality of style and actors are the series' obvious attractions. Most scenes are depressingly indoors with characters either frowning beneath fluorescent bulbs or pacing gloomily through dimly-lit hallways and bedrooms. If not indoors, the characters are probably entering or exiting them, framed almost exclusively by overcast days or black empty nights. These settings lend the show's characters and dialogue a sense of soullessness and nonfulfillment. Viewers' only relief is an occasional evening run by the show's main characters, Frank and Claire Underwood. Spacey and Robin Wright portray the Majority Whip and his wife brilliantly. The character duo proves more resilient and alluring than any I've seen on television. This is owed largely to Wright's depiction of Claire. The character, looming above her husband before every dark turn, helps dismantle the myth that powerful females live within a separate ethical sphere than powerful men. Kate Mara and Michael Kelly, while cast in stock roles also offer more than what's typically expected. Spencer Kornhaber of the Atlantic identified Kelly's character Doug Stamper as "the most intimidating dude on the show." Within a drama starring a former depictor of Shakespeare's conniving monarch Richard III, that's saying something. Finally, as absurd and implausible as it is, House of Cards' plot is its least obvious, yet most effective asset. Characters' actions often improbable and self-detrimental, move in unpredictable directions. This is a long-proven formula for keeping viewers on the edge. Furthermore, one doesn’t have to be a Shakespeare fan to appreciate an unexpected alliance here or a dramatic downfall there, often for want of a simple nail. To re-word a well-known proverb, the horse that couldn’t find a nail for its shoe could not fight the battle; the loss of the battle caused the king to lose his kingdom. Whoever the next ruler is, you can expect him or her to keep nails in high supply — and to punish the heck out of that idiot horse. Welcome to the House of Cards' White House. People want to see and believe that neglected details, however small, can lead to the ruin of even powerful people like the Underwoods. This is the series' main draw, its reigning theme: the conquered do not remain conquered for long. That is why the series begins with Frank Underwood's loss of the Secretary of State nomination in the first episode. Some critics deride "H of C" for not accurately representing life on Capitol Hill. Joshua Braver of Politico wrote that the show is "a thrilling ride, but ultimately a disappointing betrayal of the viewer's trust." What Braver and others may not understand is that most television watchers aren't educated enough in political science to be insulted by the plot's implausibility. Works of art, however pandering to the tastes of popular culture, aren't (and shouldn't be) bound by any sense of responsibility toward audience. A work of art shouldn’t be required to teach people something that can be learned by observing reality. Nobody's betting political values or beliefs on an Internet drama. Not even Joe Biden.

sports

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

In the swing of things by jermaine davis news@deltacollegian.net

Delta College’s softball team is rounding the bases early and often, at the start of the 2014 season. The Lady Mustangs have the ability to cover ground in the outfield, show good range on the infield and remain discipline at the plate. Jim Fisher enters his seventh season as head coach. The team is looking forward to competing at a high level against the competition in the Big 8 Conference. On Feb. 13, Delta played against San Jose City College, in a close game that proved the Lady Mustangs are determined to finish games on a high note. The Lady Mustangs got on the scoreboard in the first inning with a base hit RBI double by freshmen Selena Gonzalez, bringing in fellow freshmen Kodee Johnson for the run. Starting pitcher Miranda Quesada managed to keep the San Jose hitters off balance for most of the entire seven innings she was on the mound. The freshmen maintained control of the game and the defense behind her made several athletic plays on the field. "I usually share the game with Tatiana Beilstein, so I was trying to work my hardest to stay in the game,” said Quesada. “I’m pretty confident in my team, I know they have my back and I have theirs." By the end of the third inning, Delta was in control of the game with a 2-1 lead. In the bottom of the sixth, sophomore Jaime Costa smacked a solo home run over the fence in left field that brought the crowd in attendance to their feet. "We knew playing against San Jose was going to be a tough game, so we came prepared to play," said Costa. San Jose made things interesting in the closing moments of the game. Krystal Brock hit a solo home run to start the seventh inning, which made the

PHOTO BY JERMAINE DAVIS

ON THE MOUND: Mustangs' pitcher Miranda Quesada during the Feb. 13 game.

score 3-2. Quesada, however, was able to withstand San Jose’s last attempt at making a comeback and pitched a complete game, striking out four batters in the process. The win over San Jose improved Delta’s record to 4-1. The team has since defeated Yuba and Butte College, bringing the Lady Mustangs overall record to six wins and one loss. Delta’s next game is at home, against Reedley College on Feb. 20 at 2 p.m.

Delta basketball teams packs house for annual event by richard reyes news@deltacollegian.net

Delta College students, staff, and fans gathered inside the Joe Blanchard Gym on Feb. 7, for the first “Pack the House” event of 2014. "It’s pretty cool, we all come out for one game and support each other for one game…. Shows our team pride," said Head Coach Gina Johnson. Several student athletes that play sports on Delta athletic teams, were on hand to support

COMMENTARY

the Lady Mustangs on route to a victory against Modesto Junior College. The team suffered a loss midway through the first half, when freshman Nishalina Buksh went down hard after having her leg rolled over by Adalyn Garza of Modesto. "I went after the loose ball and ended up getting my leg rolled and heard a pop. The trainers don’t think I tore any ligaments, we just have to wait and see how it feels," said Buksh. At halftime the Lady Mus-

tangs led the game 38-31. In the second half, the pace of the game picked up once the fans in attendance started to make their presence felt. Delta’s freshman Selena Moore scored 24 points, shooting 6-14 from behind the arc while Sophomore Nyaa Davis contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds. "I just owe it all to practice, long hours of practice and getting help from my teammates," said Moore. Adalyn Garza led the way for

MJC scoring 28 points, shooting 8-14 from the field. The Lady Mustangs shot 31 percent from the field and the team’s defensive rotations applied much pressure to MJC, which committed 22 turnovers. Delta’s team has a lot of gifted players with unbelievable talent, but there is always room for improvement. "We struggled getting rebounds and making dumb fouls. We didn’t play a complete game and what matters is we got the win, we just got to play better,"

said Johnson. The final score of the game was 74-56, moving Delta into a first place tie with Santa Rosa. Both teams have a conference record of 10-2. "Keep following the team because we have not played our best basketball, and with your support hopefully we peak during playoff time," Johnson added. The Lady Mustangs next game is Feb. 21, on the road against American River College.

Controversial Zimmerman set to fight

After 'not guilty' verdict social pariah to challenge unnamed opponent in Pay-Per-View match

by michael johnson news@deltacollegian.net

eorge Zimmerman has been a subject of controversy and animosity since he was arrested for the shooting death of Florida teenager Trayvon Martin. The not "guilty verdict" in the case only heightened the ill feelings toward the 30-year-old former neighborhood watchman. The feeling he got away with murder is a heated sentiment felt by many. So much hatred remains that European media mogul Alkiviades "Alki" Davis has put

together a celebrity-boxing match involving Zimmerman. Initially, Zimmerman was scheduled to fight Hip Hop artist DMX. The card was cancelled. The match was unable to take place because original fight promoter Damon Feldman backed out at the last minute because of ethics. What seemed to be an epic match, turned out to be a bad ideal once Feldman learned more about the case. "When I learned everything, it was so bad. I only heard the verdict," said Feldman in an interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer. "It

was better to move on." The controversy surrounding this match has people in a Catch 22. Many believe justice wasn’t served in the court of law and that something like a boxing match would serve as some type of punishment for Zimmerman’s actions. But is it OK to profit from the death of a black youth? Two million dollars in debt, Zimmerman told celebrity news website Radar Online the match was his idea. He said "before the altercation that led to Martin’s death, he was doing boxing-like train-

ing to lose some weight." A mutual friend put him in touch with promoter Feldman. Zimmerman seems accepting to all competitors. With DMX off of the card, Zimmerman has received challenges from not only celebrities, but also some non-famous contenders who are willing to step into the ring with him. The BlkSportsOnline account of Robert Littal retweeted someone who said: "I’ll fight him for free." Even some students here at Delta would love to go a few rounds with Zimmerman free of charge.

"This saddens me and makes me wonder what's in store for the future of our country," said Delta student Remy McAlister. "I would fight Zimmerman for in a heartbeat, then pray for him after." If Zimmerman supposedly was beaten so severe by 17-year old Martin that he had to use his firearm for self-defense, boxing a more skilled fighter may prove to be somewhat of a problem. With a new promoter in charge, the fight is set to go on March 1 from an undisclosed location. Viewers can watch the event online or Pay-Per-View.

news

Issue 9 • Feb. 21, 2014 • deltacollegian.net

Confusion across campus over similarities in acronyms by orlando jose

Students returning for the spring semester knew this campus like the back of their hand, but recent upgrades made it difficult for many students to get to class on time. Delta student Diana Murry was one of many lost students. "I just glanced at my class schedule and thought it read 'SHIMA' but in all actuality it read 'SCMA,'" said Murry. SCMA is the acronym for PHOTO BY ORLANDO JOSE the new Science & Math Building. FINDING A WAY: The sign posted in Shima indicates the direction of Staff, counselors and pro- the new Science and Math Building. fessors were also impacted. Professor Stephen Itay to SCMA is along the northern to go is part of the process. teaches anatomy in the new edge of campus, and you have Parking is also an issue worbuilding and has concerns to choose between walking rying people visiting on campus about the new changes on cam- through sprinklers in the morn- daily, with the SCMA parking pus. ing or along the street; neither lot being under construction. "At the beginning of the se- route has a pathway for pedes"The C-6 and C-5 parking mester I was notified by emails trians between the parking lot lot will not open until the defrom the college with recom- and the sidewalk," he added. molish phases of the Cunningmendations for parking in the The new Science and Math ham Building is completed, Shima lot for the new Science building is a great new asset to which is scheduled for Septemand Math building," said Itay. the college. ber/October later this year," "Unfortunately, the shortThough some students seem said Facilities Planner Stacy Piest route from the parking lot to get lost, figuring out where nola.

continued from PAGE 1

“I have two young kids.”

Students can transfer at any time Transfer scholarships are available One-course-per-month format 28 campuses plus online programs

Stockton Campus 3520 Brookside Road NU14_13818-46_CC_PrintAd_Stockton_SanJoaquin_6sq_k.indd 1

With the recent decline in clubs on campus, some clubs have had to adapt new policies on campus in order to survive. The clubs include Delta PSI, Club Feed and Anthropology Club who manage to keep active with campus activities as well as membership requirements. "We go to events monthly to make sure that we maintain our membership, we [also] go out to the community all year around," said Katelyn Sevilla Treasurer of Club Feed. According to Kourtney Stuthard, ICC Rep of Club Feed, these events include helping out at St. Mary’s Dining Hall, as well as a one in San Francisco. "Keeping everyone informed on what’s going on we are planning a big field trip and we do homeless project and always having a table out in the quad the club has been around since 2005 and if you don’t reach out you won’t get members," said Mark Smith President of Delta PSI. According to James Briones, the volunteering helps keep members up. "We are letting people know that we are on campus and we are an academic club, we promote the tutors on campus and we are letting the instructors know that we are available to help out. We try to promote other clubs equally and we are going to have a telelecture with an Archaeologist working on the Pompii site that was destroyed in ancient Roman times. We are planning a field trip to San Francisco to go on a walking tour guided by docents to learn history, and our advisor Dr. Scully-Linder is very active with the club," said Venus GiacoMottie President of Anthrophogy. Delta College has seen clubs come and go but only few have stayed around to maintain their club membership.

BUSES: Regional Transit District debuts articulated buses for route

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Learn more at nu.edu/transfer

by sean reilly

news@deltacollegian.net

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Clubs work to survive beyond the 'rush' period

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(855) 355-6288 1/24/14 11:15 AM

more value in seat capacity than you are paying extra for the size of the bus," said Knodt. The first in-service articulated bus departure took place at 9 a.m. from the Hammer Triangle bus stop on Lower Sacramento Road. Seasoned passengers, local government representatives and members of the media snapped photos and snacked on free treats as they watched two long buses PHOTO BY SONYA HERRERA head south. The bus’s maiden voyage was NEW RIDE: The front of a new, accompanied by local media larger bus for the 40 Route, fanfare. which stops in front of Delta on Knodt said the new buses Pacific Avenue. may someday serve other Express routes. "The 40 is going to get the articulated buses in the beginning, and then we'll see how the other route corridors develop," said Knodt. "If there was to be another corridor that would get them down the road, it would probably be the 43." Besides the longer buses, RTD will also increase Route 40's weekend frequency "from every 30 minutes to every 20 minutes" between 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., according to a Feb. 11 news release. Delta student Alton Henry thinks the increased bus lengths will help students economically. "It's really challenging to pay for a car now," said Henry. "All you've got to do to use the bus is get a bus pass, and you're all set."