Delta Collegiate Feb. 16, 2023 Edition

FEATURE

Page 8

Black History Month

• The history of Black History Month

• Local Black owned businesses

• How you can celebrate this month

• MLK event in Saginaw

3

OPINION

Page 18

Kamala Harris for president?

As a political science student and as a fellow South Asian American, I feel so proud when I see Harris on the stage representing us as a country and representing people like me.

The time for police reform is long overdue! Overhaul training to stop police brutality.

17

3 dead and 5 hospitalized in MSU shooting, gunman dead

EAST LANSING – On Feb. 13, at 8:18 p.m. a call was made from Michigan State University campus to the authorities that there was an active shooter on campus. A shelter-in-place was immediately put into effect, meaning everyone had to take refuge inside a safe space until the authorities said it was all clear. Three fatalities were confirmed and five others were transported to the hospital for life-threatening injuries.

Alexandria Verner a junior from Clawson, sophomore Brian Fraser from Grosse Pointe, and junior Arielle Anderson from Grosse Pointe were identified as those who passed. All five victims who were transported to the hospital remain in critical condition.

From the first call that there was a shooter on campus until the gunman was found, students and citizens in the area called in tips and assisted law enforcement. Many shared photos and videos from the scene they could see, where flashing lights lit up the blocks from police and emergency vehicles and students

ran across the lawn in fear. Many videos of what looked to be the shooter stalking around campus were posted online. For hours the shooting was the second trending topic on Twitter, before moving to the first.

The shootings were confirmed to have occurred in Berkey Hall resulting in two of the fatalities, and in the Union building where the third fatality happened.

The suspect was captured on the security cameras on campus at about 11:00 p.m. The photo of the suspect was released at 11:18 p.m. and by 11:35 p.m. officers located the suspect after someone called in a tip that they had seen the gunman. The gunman was found deceased from a self-inflicted wound at an off-campus location. He was identified as 43-year-old Dwayne McRae who had no apparent connections with MSU.

The community displayed a great example of working together to use “See Something, Say Something” to assist the police in finding the gunman.

TikTok may soon be banned everywhere in the US

A bill proposed by Sen. Marco Rubio in the Senate would ban anyone from using TikTok in the United States.

The bill, known as the “ANTI-SOCIAL CCP Act,” would ”protect Americans by blocking and prohibiting all transactions from any social media company in, or under the influence of, China, Russia, and several other foreign countries of concern,” according to Rubio’s website.

A companion bill was introduced into the House of Representatives by Rep. Mike Gallagher and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi.

This is not the first time the U.S. would prohibit TikTok in some way. On Dec. 29, President Biden signed into law the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, which included a clause that banned the popular app from being used on government devices. Exceptions were included for those who obtain proper authorization.

The reasoning for the ban was threats to national security. Officials were concerned the Chinese government may be collecting personal information of American

civilians for use in intelligence gathering or to spread disinformation and disorder.

Delta College students had mixed reactions towards the rationale.

“I mean, I could see how it could happen,” said student Jeremiah Iseler. “But I don’t see how it could be the main reason that they’d want it.

“I believe it, because people put

everything out there,” said Zoe Bender, another student. She later continued, “I mean there’s definitely some things that go on it [the app] that shouldn’t be allowed but I think it is a helpful community platform. There’s some videos, like I’m really into the cooking videos, so I use those at home.”

The idea of TikTok being used as a helpful place was shared by other students

In the event of an active shooter remember

to run, hide, and fight

Run: If it is safe to do so, run away from the shooter as quickly as possible. Encourage others to come with you, but do not wait for anyone who is hesitant.

Hide: If you cannot escape, hide in a secure location, such as a locked classroom or office. Turn off the lights and silence your phone. Use large items to hide behind and barricade the door with any available furniture.

Fight: If the shooter enters your location and there is no way to escape or hide, be prepared to fight back. Use any object as a weapon and aim for the shooter’s head or eyes. If you are with others, work together to stop the threat.

as well. Talitha Martin said she uses TikTok a lot, both for fun and for educational purposes.

Time use varied wildly on the service. Some, like Iseler, had dropped it entirely, citing the amount of time it took up in a day. Others were closer to Bender, who said she spent up to four hours scrolling.

As for reactions to the proposed full ban’s potential passing, many were simply indifferent to the idea.

“I can’t say I’m either way,” Iseler said. “Not really against it, not really for it.”

Similarly, while Martin said she did not support a full ban, she “probably wouldn’t care.”

Everyone did have strong opinions on one matter though; all believed that, should TikTok be banned, a new app would simply replace the niche it had filled.

Bender gave a simple answer saying, “Oh, yeah.”

“You already got YouTube and Instagram and everything else,” Iseler said. “All have their own versions of TikTok.”

Noah Brasseur

ticktok soon to be banned?; photo credit: adobe stock

Courtney Elisech

Misty Barron

Noah Brasseur brings you bite-sized news highlights

Hello! My name is Noah, and this is the News Corner! I've always had a long-standing interest in politics and current events, and a strong belief that everyone should have at least a basic set of facts for the issues of today. It's an honor and a pleasure to be able to write about and share the facts for those very issues! I hope everyone who reads will come away with just a bit more knowledge than they had before- and an appetite to dig deeper into the story.

Next up on the block, a more international scale.

The Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has canceled a trip to China following a spying incident.

The United States is alleging that a Chinese spy balloon has been drifting over the country for the past few days, in what the government called a violation of U.S. sovereignty.

China, for their part, says it was a civilian aircraft, and regretted causing such a stir. According to their statement, the balloon was meant for scientific studies and meteorology.

The balloon was shot down over Myrtle

First up, an update on the federal government

The Treasury Department of the United States is currently using “extraordinary measures” to prevent the U.S. from defaulting on its debt, which means they are shuffling when and where they spend government money.

The measures are expected to keep the government from defaulting (meaning, failing to pay back debts) until sometime in the summer.

This has occurred because the United States has his its debt ceiling. The debt ceiling is a line, set by Congress, which sets the maximum amount of money the federal government can loan at a time.

Nobody is quite sure what would happen if the United States were to default, as it has never happened intentionally.

There is speculation among economists there would be an economic catastrophe, but this is, of course, speculation.

The problem has been dealt with in the past by simply raising the debt ceiling. Why not do that again?

Simply put, a group of Republicans in the House of Representatives have decided to make a stand on the issue. They say government spending has gone wildly out of control, and refuse to pass any act that would raise the ceiling without a complementary act that would reduce spending.

If that sounds familiar, you wouldn’t be wrong- a similar standoff occurred in 2011.

Beach, South Carolina by the U.S. on Feb. 5.

The event comes on the heels of the Philippines announcing they would begin accepting a larger military presence from the U.S. on their islands, likely in a bid to deter Chinese aggression.

The entire affair is seen as somewhat a blow to normalizing relations between the China and the United States. Both nations have had an interest in returning to a healthier partnership after a rocky recent past, which included trade wars and shifting blame for the COVID pandemic.

And finally, one last bit of international news

The United States recently had a bit of a policy reversal by announcing they would be sending tanks to Ukraine’s army.

The U.S. is expended to send somewhere around 30 Abrams tanks to the Ukrainian army, a move that has long been asked for by proponents of their cause.

The government had previously refused to send the vehicles overseas, saying it would be too aggressive a move. Russia said it was a red line for them, and would be met with retaliation should the transfer happen.

So what changed?

Poland, a staunch supporter of the defense of Ukraine, had been aggravating to send their own tank supply to their neighbors.

However, their vehicles are made in Germany, and would require German approval for them to send their tanks.

Germany made it clear they would only send their tank supply if the U.S. sent some. So the U.S. did.

soldiers on tanks; photo credit: adobe stock

LOCAL

Zehnder’s Snowfest draws in large crowds despite the mild winter

Kathryn Nickell

FRANKENMUTH – Zehnder’s Snowfest celebrated its 32nd year of winter fun for everyone from Jan. 25 to 29 this year. It was a great turn out for this annual event.

Thanks to the assistance of snow-making machines, recent Michigan mild weather temperatures couldn’t put a damper on the spirits of event organizers, participants, or guests.

Visitors bundled up to enjoy the snow and ice sculpture contests, horse carriage rides, ice skating, fireworks, and warming tents filled with refreshments, exhibit booths, and live entertainment. The children’s play area offered a free petting zoo, a merry-go-round, pony rides, and carnival games.

Sponsored ice sculptures from local businesses, state universities, and national brands lined the streets of Frankenmuth for families to observe while strolling through the festival.

Guests had the opportunity to enjoy two snow sculpting contests, an adult and a high school competition. The snow sculptures featured a variety of different themes, shapes and designs.

Even though Snowfest only lasts through the weekend, these snow sculptures could last many more weeks, weather permitting.

Scan the QR code to see more Snowfest photos and video online!

Onnie Stone

ice scUlptUres lined sidewalks along main street at the frankenmUth snowfest, Jan. 28, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

groUps of people look at ice scUlptUres next to frankenmUth’s ice rink at the frankenmUth snowfest, Jan. 28, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

a girl approaches the snow scUlptUres featUred at the frankenmUth snowfest, Jan. 28, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

high school stUdents scUlpt snow blocks, Jan. 26, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

Fake school shooting reports across Michigan

La’Niya Jones

building, some even including a caller with a heavy accent stating the name of the school.

The caller said they were a teacher and that a student had shot another student and even gave out fake room numbers of where the accident occurred. Ann Arbor police were also receiving calls about a fake shooting taking place at Huron High School.

Saginaw Township schools were placed in “secure mode,” meaning that no one was able to come in or out of the school until the end of the day. This was a precaution due to a situation happening at Nouvel High School connected to the fake shooting reports.

The fake reports that occurred on Tuesday are called “swatting,” defined as the action of making a prank call to emergency services to bring a large group of officials to one location.

The potential charges and sentences someone can face in Michigan are listed as follows:

Communicating a threat of terrorism leads to a 20-year felony.

Calling in a bomb threat leads to a 4-year felony.

Malicious use of a telecommunications device leads to a 6-month misdemeanor.

Threatening violence against a school employee or student leads to a 1-year misdemeanor.

People found guilty can face fines up to $50,000 with prison or jail time on top of that.

On Tuesday, Feb. 7, multiple Michigan school districts were on high alert after receiving fake school shooting reports.

That morning, Okemos High School in Meridian Township received an unknown call saying there was an active shooter in the building. The local police quickly went to the school and saw no signs of an active shooter.

They later sent out a message to the public saying that everyone in the building was safe and that the building was secure. Michigan State Police stated that many schools reported getting fake calls of “active shooting” in the school

On the night of Feb. 7, Attorney General Dana Nessel released a statement about the swatting accidents. General Nessel wants to inform parents, kids, and everyone about the seriousness of threats and what charges someone could face. Threats of violence raise fear and can result in serious injuries or deaths.

Fake threat reports are terrible for everyone involved; investigations are still taking place on what exactly happened and who is responsible.

Michigan was not the only state to be hit with fake shooting reports throughout the week; California and Vermont schools were also subject to the fake callings. These fake calls have made people pay more attention to school safety and communication protocols. Many schools are still recovering from the Tuesday incident that left many families, students, and staff shaken.

Swatting can also lead to other charges listed below:

A false report of a crime leads to a 93-day misdemeanor.

A false report resulting in physical injury leads to a 5-year felony.

A false report resulting in serious bodily impairment leads to a 10-year felony.

A false report resulting in a death leads to a 15year felony.

A purrfectly good time at Midland County Pit Stop’s Cat & Kitten Café

Kathryn Nickell

MIDLAND – Midland County Pit Stop’s first Cat & Kitten Café of 2023 took place at Stranded Yarn and Coffee on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023, from noon to 2 p.m.

Guests were able to attend for free to visit, hold and play with adoptable cats and kittens. Adoption applications were provided on-site. Trooper, a recent rescue and foster dog, also attended the event with his owner, Mia Behm. Trooper was brought into Animal Medical Center in Midland last October after his owner chained him to a tractor and pulled him down a paved country road. He was heartworm positive, extremely emaciated, and his paw pads were raw.

“He had to stay at the Medical Center for two weeks,” Behm explained. “Then he went into foster and was adopted.”

Trooper has made a full recovery and is a great example of the work that Midland County Pit Stop provides to animals in need in the community.

Midland County Pit Stop is a nonprofit that focuses on rescue, adoption, re-homing and providing temporary foster for pets in need. They have placed nearly 500 pets in homes since 2019.

Midland County Pit Stop plans on having Cat & Kitten Café events quarterly. To make sure you don’t miss the next one, or to donate or view their current adoptable pets, visit their website, follow them on Facebook, or call/text.

cUstomers visit kittens at midland's pit stop feb. 4, 2023; photo credit kathryn nickell

police officer oUtside by shcool bUs; photo: adobe stock

CAMPUS LIFE

Lt. Gov. Gilchrist visits to celebrate 2 years of the Reconnect Scholarship

Misty Barron

UNIVERSITY CENTER – On Thursday, Feb. 2, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist visited Delta College to mark the two year anniversary of the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship program.

During his tour, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist met with students taking part in trade programs by visiting the welding and computer numerical control labs. He used this opportunity to discuss with both students and instructors their experiences with the Michigan Reconnect scholarship. Many students shared their appreciation for being able to return to school thanks to the programs and shared their positive experiences.

Gilchrist opened a round-table discussion for students by saying he and Gov. Whitmer created the scholarships so Michiganders can “have the future you want and pathways to it.”

Currently, the Reconnect scholarship is only available to residents who are over 25. Gilchirst spoke of plans to lower the age to 21. He also discussed the scholarship program's recent expansion to include wrap-around services to cover extra costs older students face when returning to college.

“The hardest part of school should be in the classroom,” added Delta College President Michael Gavin, before inviting participants to further share their stories and opinions.

Students raised concerns about a lack of promotion for the program, issues with dual enrollment options, and difficulties with scheduling. They also noted that many

young people are unaware of the program. In response, Gilchrist encouraged them to share their experiences with the scholarship program to spread awareness.

“You telling your story is way more compelling than anything I can do,” Gilchrist shared.

What is the Michigan Reconnect Program?

Michigan Reconnect is a tuition-free scholarship program designed to support adults over 25 years old who want to pursue higher education. The scholarship covers the cost of an associate degree or a skills certificate that is eligible for Pell Grants at Michigan's community colleges.

The program aims to provide access to higher education, enhance skills and support career growth in high-demand fields for Michigan residents.

The scholarship is part of Gov. Whitmer’s SixtyBy30 goal, which aims to increase the number of Michigan adults with an associate degree or certification to 60% by 2030. The program has increased that number to 50% in only two years.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be at least 25 years old when you apply

• Have lived in Michigan for a year or more

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent

• Have not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelor’s)

gov. gilchrist speaks with Jim proctor, delta college’s associate professor of welding, as well as stUdents in delta’s welding lab, delta college main campUs, feb. 2, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

lt. gov. gilchrist (left) sits with delta college president michael gavin (right) to discUss how to better serve stUdents, delta college main campUs, feb. 2, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

michigan reconnect and fUtUre for frontliners stUdents pose with lt. gov. gilchrist and delta college president michael gavin feb. 2, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

New mascot coming and students are neutral, alumni upset

Noah Brasseur

Delta College students seemed largely uninterested in Delta’s pivot away from the Pioneers mascot and name, while alumni expressed frustration with the change.

“Honestly, I’m kind of indifferent about it,” said Willem Short, a current Delta student. “Whatever they choose is probably going to be smart.”

Short said that while he was not sure what a Lumbercat was, it “sounds kind of cool.” His confusion is not unfounded. A Google search returns no result for a “lumbercat” beyond video game characters and a small band’s Instagram account.

Molly Wahl, another student, said she had not wanted to see the change, but she was not “mad that it’s being changed.” She preferred the white-tailed deer as the new mascot.

Precious Fields, a member of the women’s basketball team, did not know which one she wanted to vote for. As she was read the list of the four finalists, her face scrunched up.

“I can’t really see none of them,” Fields shared. “Because I’m used to being a Delta Pioneer.”

One of the provided reasons for the name change came from Leanne Govitz, Delta College’s Director of Marketing and Public Information.

“Throughout the years, student-athletes and other groups have wanted to create a mascot,” Govitz said in a recent interview. “One that isn’t tied to local colonization or

Faces around campus

lumbering nor gender specific.”

The students’ reactions to the sentiment Govitz shared were mixed.

“Other than colonization, yeah,” Short said. “I feel like pioneer isn’t very gender

specific, personally, because I feel like men and women can both be pioneers.”

“I’m not sure… I mean, I can see where she’s coming from,” Wahl said.

“I mean, that’s cool, but,” Fields started,

before continuing, “We see nothing wrong with it.”

While student reactions ranged from indifference to hesitation, a much stronger outcry came from Delta alumni. Sydney Hollis, who graduated in 2020, sent an email to the Collegiate expressing her dismay at the change.

“I somewhat understand the sentiment in the name change… but by definition a pioneer is ‘a person to develop or be the first to use or apply (a new method, area of knowledge, or activity),’” she wrote.

“Furthermore, as a community college with its main focus on expanding the minds of its students, rather than profit or sports, (something I take much pride in as an alumni) Delta really does not need a physical mascot.”

Collin Weber, another alum, expressed a similar sentiment.

“In my world, the word pioneer is the first to do something. Sure, it can be a colonization, however, it can also be anything that the person wants it to be,” he wrote. “You frequently hear the word pioneer used to describe something. I.e. ‘They were the pioneers of that industry.’ A pioneer industry is any industry that adds value. I believe Delta College Pioneers are just that. They are adding value to the community. Personally, I believe that Pioneers are incredibly fitting for what the goal of the college is.”

Onnie Stone

delta women's basketball team celebrates men's victory feb. 4, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

The Delta Beat is a bi-weekly news segment created by students, for students that reports both on and off-campus.

Civil rights activist joins MLK celebration in Saginaw

Brasseur

SAGINAW - The Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Celebration was observed Jan. 18 at Saginaw Valley State University with a turn out.

Almost every seat at the event was filled. The crowd that gathered was passionate as they offered up multiple standing ovations throughout the proceedings. The night included an award ceremony, an in-depth discussion with civil rights activist Bakari Sellers, and a small musical performance by Grammy Award-winner Pastor Marvin L. Winans.

Delta College, keynote speaker Bakari Sellers engaged in a dialogue onstage with SVSU’s John Kaczynski.

Sellers, who made history as the youngest state representative in the nation at the time of his election, offered commentary cycled between being humorous and serious, discussing a range of topics that varied from his time in office to reflecting on Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life.

“Mom said she’d vote for me,” Sellers said, throwing the crowd into a fit of laughter. “Dad said he’d think about it.”

At one point, a cellphone rang during his talk. He said he didn’t mind being interrupted, though, because he “had stock in Verizon.”

It was not just a comedy routine. Sellers spoke about contemporary American life and what MLK means to the country.

18 awards given out in total, 15 scholarships to high school students from various local schools, and three Drum Major awards.

“Recipients of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award,” read a text from the provided brochure. selflessly perform daily acts of service that make their respective communities- and the world- a better place.”

After the awards, including a small video that was prepared with help from

“We have whitewashed the way we talk about Martin Luther King,” he said. “Nobody actually teaches who he is. We make it seem like he was some docile individual when he was actually a radical revolutionary.”

Sellers continued with a reference that many will understand.

“I remind people that Dr. King was not liked,” he said. And later continued, “At no point in Donald Trump’s entire life did his approval rating get as low as Dr. Martin Luther King’s approval rating in that time.”

Sellers also had insights into the United States’ record on civil rights, and what it’s taken to get to a more equitable society.

“You don’t have the Fair Housing Act but for the assassination of Dr. King. You don’t get that legislation unless King is assassinated,” Sellers said. “We don’t take the confederate flag down in South Carolina unless nine people are killed in a church. You don’t have a conversation about the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act if George Floyd isn’t murdered in the

street and we all see it.”

“We have made a lot of progress in this country, but the cost of that progress is unnerving,” he said. “The cost has not decreased and that’s the troublesome part of where we are.”

Still, despite his criticisms of modern America, Sellers maintains hope for a better future.

“Nothing about this country is irredeemable,” he shared. “We just need to reimagine what she looks like.”

Ten ways you can celebrate Black History month

1. Read books and watch documentaries about Black history and the contributions of Black individuals to society.

2. Attend a Black History Month event or celebration in your community.

3. Visit a museum or exhibit dedicated to Black history and culture.

4. Listen to Black music, such as jazz, blues, hip hop, and soul, and learn about the history and significance of these genres.

5. Learn about and celebrate Black inventors, scientists, artists, and leaders.

6. Support Black-owned businesses and cultural organizations.

7. Cook and enjoy traditional Black cuisine.

8. Watch a film or play about Black history and culture.

9. Participate in a community service project that supports Black communities and organizations.

10. Educate yourself and others about ongoing issues affecting the Black community, such as racial justice and equality, and take action to support progress in these areas.

Noah

“We have whitewashed the way we talk about Martin Luther King,” -Sellers

president of svsU, welcomes

photo credit onnie stone

svsU’s execUtive director of governmental and commUnity affairs, mr. John kacZynski (left), converses with aUthor, activist, and attorney bakari sellers (right) Jan. 18, 2023; photo credit onnie stone

The history behind Black History Month

Noah Brasseur

As most Americans know, Black History Month spans the entire length of February. It is a celebration of Black people’s triumphs and accomplishments throughout American history. What may be less clear to some, however, are the details. Why February? When did it start being celebrated? Who started it?

In truth, Black History Month was not originally conceived as a several-week event, but just one. Known as Negro History Week, it was celebrated in the middle of February. This period was chosen in honor of the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, on Feb. 12, and Frederick Douglas, on Feb. 14.

Both of these dates already been days of rejoice and reflection for Black Americans before Negro History Week was established, which was likely another reason why it was chosen.

The man who chose the period and the name was named Carter G. Woodson. He was inspired to start the project in 1915, the 50-year anniversary of the end of slavery. In Chicago, an event was held to commemorate the successes of the Black community in the years since.

It would prompt Woodson to create a week that would celebrate and promote Black science and history. He left Chicago to help create the ASNLH-the Association for the Study of Negro Life-with four other individuals.

This organization first used their connections to achieve their goals. In 1920, Woodson was urging other Black organizations to join in their goal of promoting Black science and history. By 1924, this had resulted in the creation of the Negro History and Literature weeklater known as Negro Achievement Week but this was not enough to satisfy Woodson.

He decided his organization, the ASNLH, would need

Celebrate Black History Month by visiting some of these locally Black Owned Businesses

Eagle’s Vision LLC

Looking for a photographer or videographer? Try out Eagle’s Vision, a Saginaw-based photography and videography business. They do things ranging from solo shoots to family photos to big events. They can meet outside of Saginaw too. For more information, visit their website, eaglesvisionllc.com or contact Eaglesvisionllc@gmail.com.

Katy’s Kards

Plan to throw an amazing event or celebrate something special? Stop by Katy’s Kards at 1200 Court Street in Saginaw. They sell an amazing array of balloons, candles, and cards, and can even help decorate your event. Visit their website, www.katyskards.com/ to shop or book an event, or call (989) 759-9293.

Alani’s Fashion Boutique

What about trendy one of kind women’s clothing? Visit Alani’s Fashion Boutique located at 3341 South Linden Road in Flint. They sell a range of clothes, from party dresses to two-piece sets to jumpsuits, and they have so much more to offer. For more information, check out their website, www. alanisfashionboutique.com/ or call (989) 443-3279.

Big O’s Burgers and BBQ

Want a new BBQ place in Saginaw? Check out Big O’s Burgers and BBQ at 4072 Bay Road or 205 South Washington. They also just opened a new location in Midland at 111 West Wackerly. Check out their delicious menu on their website, big-o-burgers-bbq.square.site or call (989) 401-0221.

to be the ones to take charge. Woodson designated the first Negro History Week to be set in February 1926.

The project was a near instant hit. The ‘20s were a time of growing racial pride as Black veterans celebrated their successes in battle. Additionally, the group were becoming less tolerant of their secondclass status. These factors combined to make a celebration of Blackness a sensation.

Woodson and his group worked to meet the demand, providing lesson plans for schools to teach history, books written by Black authors, scripts for plays to reenact great moments.

By the 1930s, the movement had spread across the nations. Mayors began recognizing the week officially, and more progressively minded whites created the National Brotherhood Week, intended to be a companion celebration for interracial progress. The shift away from “Week” and towards “Month” was not marked by any official declaration. Rather, it was a natural outgrowth of the established principles. As early as the 1940s, Blacks started celebrating the entire month of February.

It was not until the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s that the replacement would accelerate. However, only a decade later in 1976, the ASNLH officially rebranded Negro History Week to Black History Month. The same year, President Gerald Ford became the first to officially recognize the month.

Since then, every U.S. president has endorsed the project and its theme. The theme for 2023 is “Black Resistance”, and it explores how the Black population stood against continued adversity over the centuries.

Tees Plentiful Salad

Want a new place to eat out, then try Tees Plentiful Salads located at 300 E 1st Street in Flint. They have a wide range of salads, from a garden salad to a taco salad. Check out their website, teesplentifulsalads.commenus for the full menu, and call (810) 766-3705 or email info@teesplentifulsalads.com for more information.

Goodboy Clothing

If you are interested in adding more style to your wardrobe, check out Goodboy Clothing at 601 South Saginaw Street in Flint. They sell sunglasses, hats, t-shirts, hoodies, and much more. Check out their website,goodboyclothing.myshopify. com and call (877) 778-4329 for more information.

Royalty Boutique

Want some new trendy outfits? Check out Royalty Boutique at 3514 State Street in Saginaw. For more information, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/ people/Royalty-Boutique or call (989) 327-5757.

See the full list online

La’Niya Jones

Q&A with men's basketball coach, Vincent Turner

Vincent Turner is the head coach of the Delta College Men’s Basketball team. This will be his second season at Delta. He is very dedicated and passionate about helping young students find their footing not only in basketball but also in the real world. Turner is originally from Detroit, where he played basketball and graduated from Martin Luther King High School. From there he went to Austin Peay State University and played for Lake Kelly.

Is there anything you have taken from your own experience playing basketball into your coaching?

Something I take with me is that I got as far as I did because I was willing to give up what I wanted now for what I wanted most. And most kids fail because they're not willing to give up what they want now for what they want most.

What did you do before coaching at Delta?

I started as a volunteer strength and conditioning coach while completing my degree after I got done playing basketball. After I got my degree, I got a job as the head basketball coach at Frederick Douglass High School. After a couple of years there, I got an assistant coaching job at Wayne County Community College. From there, I got the head coaching job at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. After a contract dispute, I got the head coaching job at Northwest High School in Tennessee. After that, I moved to Texas and taught criminal justice for a year before getting this job.

What made you interested in coaching?

Honestly, my love for the game I love the game of basketball. It helps me connect and help young people and help them realize their dream to get to where I wanted to get, and where I wasn’t able to get. If I can help one or two people surpass where I got, then I have done something right. Basically, you’re touching young people’s lives, helping them through basketball, and preparing them to be better adults.

Do you have any goals for this season or the team?

This season, I would really like to win our conference. I think we could win now that we have everybody back eligible. I think that winning the conference is a realistic goal.

How would you describe the relationship of the team?

If I’m being honest and truthful, I think our team is young and immature but very talented.

How has the season been for the team?

It was rocky at the beginning because we were missing a lot of players, but once we got our players back, we have been competing and playing at a pretty high level.

Do you have any advice for anybody inspiring to be an athlete or a coach?

My advice would be to do something that you love to do. Because if you're doing something you love it's never like work. If you dream and are inspired to be an athlete or a coach, don’t let anything stand in your way.

What are you looking for in a basketball player for the team?

I’m looking for people who are willing to be part of the team aspect of a family and who are disciplined and willing to give up the me for the we. And understand that being a star in their role is better than trying to be the star of everyone's role

Is there anything else you would like to say to Delta or the community about yourself, the team, or anything in general?

I would like the community and the people of Delta to know that we are a pretty good basketball team and that it's worth coming out to support the team. I would really like to see more people at the games because we put up a pretty good brand of basketball, it's exciting, the players are excited, and it just builds the brand of Delta.

La’Niya Jones

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headshot of coach vincent tUrner

Q&A with coach Ryvon Covile from the men’s basketball team

Ryvon Covile is the associate head coach of Delta’s men’s basketball team. This will be his second year coaching at Delta. He is very dedicated and uses his experience to help push young people in the right direction, not just in basketball but also in the real world. Originally from Detroit, coach Covile played basketball professionally until he retired when he was 31. As a professional in the NBA he played with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, and the Seattle Supersonics.

Is there anything you have taken from your own experience playing basketball into your coaching?

Everything. I was third in the nation in rebounding and went to Portsmouth, a top senior camp, and got an invite to a pre-draft camp. I tell people all the time, don’t get ready; stay ready. Playing overseas and professionally, I was able to reach a level of maturity. I take everything I’ve been through and how I was coached over there and use it to help these guys. My job is to take what I’ve learned and give it back to someone else.

What did you do before coaching at Delta?

I graduated from Detroit Mercy in 2007. I was in the NBA draft that year and did well, but I failed the physical at the pre-draft camp. I ended up signing that summer with the Cavaliers and what was then the Seattle Supersonics. I ended up going overseas my first year, to Israel and Spain. I came back and signed with the Detroit Pistons. I ended up living in Europe and playing in Europe and Asia for the next nine years. After that, I moved to Texas, where I coached a girls' basketball team. I moved back to Michigan and started working for Delta.

What made you interested in coaching?

I originally didn’t want to coach. When I was done playing basketball, I didn’t want to do the typical athlete thing. “Hey you should be a coach now.” So, I took some time to figure it out. My daughter wanted to play, so I went to her practice one day, and I have been coaching ever since.

Do you have any goals for this season or the team?

My goals are similar for these guys. I want these guys to experience things I experienced. The big goal is to make these men grow up. To me, it's bigger than basketball; we just use basketball as a reference to make these guys understand the severity of adulthood. You know, growing up and being responsible a lot of times can cause fights because kids are stuck in their ways and want to do what they want to do. It’s a tug of war sometimes, but the ultimate goal is to get these guys to grow up and to leave here being responsible and able to take care of themselves and their families one day.

How would you describe the relationship of the team?

The team is very young. We have about seven or eight guys right out of high school, so a lot of 18-year-olds doing 18-year-old things. I tell these guys all the time to either change their dreams or change their habits. Once you're in-college, players are a lot older, and it’s a big culture shock for these kids. But it’s a growing curve they have to go over.

How has the season been for the team?

The season started off pretty rocky, we had a few injuries. Our all-conference player couldn’t play until January. It took a toll on us early, but a lot of guys got some good playing time and experience under their belt. Now things are changing drastically for the better.

Do you have any advice for anybody inspiring to be an athlete or a coach?

In a coaching aspect, I tell coaches all the time that no one cares what you know until they know you care about it. In my opinion your not coaching basic things your coaching the mentality. They know that you care about them and that you'll do anything for them. On the athletic aspect, I highly recommend kids in athletics because it creates character, teaches you how to work as a team, teaches conflict resolution skills, and teaches you communication skills. Any team sport requires players to be selfless and understand who they’re dealing with.

What are you looking for in a basketball player for the team?

My ideal player is a player who understands their strengths and weaknesses and is willing to get better. I love tough-nosed players and players with high IQs. Players that can think and talk at the same time. Someone who can play the game without necessarily having a ball in their hands. The ball will stop bouncing, and you must be able to take the lessons you've learned and use that towards something else. A big thing is using your athletic platform in a positive way.

Is there anything else you would like to say to Delta or the community about yourself, the team, or anything in general?

I love Saginaw, and I thank Julian Taylor for giving me the opportunity back in 2013 or 2014. I want to thank the community for sticking by us through our rough times and good times. Things were rough starting off, but we understand that we need the community's support and our fan base. Our games are exciting, and most teams’ colleges don’t have that kind of fan turnout. Keep pushing for Delta athletics, and it will get us to that national championship one day.

La’Niya Jones

headshot of coach ryvon covile

photo of coach ryvon covile and a player from the team

Delta's Basketball Teams play Bay College Jan. 28

UNIVERSITY CENTER – Delta College basketball teams and Bay College tipped off for back-to-back matchups on Jan. 28 between the men's and women's teams. The men's team came up just short with a loss while the women's team blew out Bay College completely.

Delta’s women's team was led by sophomore Catarina Juarez who dropped 27 points. Catarina has been a leader for the team all season, always chanting “D up” to her teammates when she is on the sidelines along with plenty of other leadership characteristics.

Coach Sabra Wimberly describes her athletes on the court as “scrappy” and the team ended with 17 steals total throughout the game.

Right from tip-off, Delta scored first and never let Bay College get a

sniff at the lead, continuously adding points until the final score of 55-91.

A player to keep an eye on the rest of the season is sophomore forward TaNyla Anthony Billups. Her presence down low is nothing that will get recognition on the stat sheet, but her sheer rim protection forces opposing teams to take more outside shots. Defending these outside shots are Delta’s three super-athletic sophomore guards. Destiny Harrison, Desiree Jackson, and Mya Williams. These three have combined for 119 steals so far this semester making Delta one of the top defensive teams in the conference.

Delta College’s men's basketball team versus Bay College on Jan. 28 was a nail-biter until the end. Delta led until halftime, but afterward, Bay College pulled out and maintained a

comfortable 10-point lead for the rest of the game, for a final score of 90-100 in favor of Bay College.

After the game, Coach Vincent Turner described the loss as disappointing and said the team needs to polish up their fundamentals and finishing but looks to carry this energy onto the next game.

Sophomore Travis Pourciau was the leading scorer for the Pioneers with 28 points. It didn’t seem like Bay College had anyone who could match up with his height or length. Pourciau, number 21, is Delta’s big man. He is very reliable down-lowgrabbing double-digit rebounds and points nearly every game. As the great basketball player Kawhii Lenord once said, “board man gets paid.”

Vincent Khan Onnie Stone

men's and women's basketball teams playing bay college, Jan 28; photo credits onnie stone

men's basketball teams playing bay college, Jan 28; photo credits onnie stone

Delta Sweeps Alpena, Pioneers basketball program looking promising

Vincent Khan Onnie Stone

UNIVERSITY CENTER – Delta College’s men's and women's basketball teams both were victorious against Alpena Community College on Feb. 4. The men's team finished with a score of 86-79, and the women's team of 70-60.

The women's team was a borderline blowout as usual. Eight of their 11 wins have a winning margin of 10 points or more. The team sits fourth in their division and looks to finish the season strong to punch their ticket into the playoffs.

First-year coach Sabra Wimberly has cultivated a culture where she wants athletes with great posture who work hard, lead, and have a high motor.

There were 22 steals by the Pioneers on defense. Sophomore Destiny Harrison was the star of the game, one steal shy of a tripledouble which is no easy feat in the game. Even more impressive about the stat line is that she achieved her triple-double with steals, rebounds, and points, instead of with assists, points, and rebounds.

Delta College's men's basketball team continues to grow and evolve throughout the season. After their win against Alpena Community College on Feb. 4 they sit at a record of 6-13.

As the clock hit zero, coach Vincent Turner described the win with words like “perseverance” and “scrappy.” Turner's heavy character coaching style helped the team grab the lead four minutes into the game and keep the lead throughout the whole game. This win marks Delta’s second pair of back-to-back wins this season.

Sophomore Jacob Carlson was the one who gave the Pioneers the lead early with his 3-point shot only four minutes into the game. Carlson is averaging 38% from 3 point this season which is on par to what a top 50 player in the NBA would average for 3-pointers.

Throughout the first half, sophomore star Jermaine Lawrence got into foul trouble early and it resulted in him being benched for the majority of the first half. His athletic presence was missed but was brought back in the second half where he returned to the game bringing back the “dog” mentality to the team with two monster dunks keeping the momentum on Delta’s side.

Freshman guard Markel Martin is the one who sealed the deal for the Pioneers with his two clutch free throws with five seconds left in the game which solidified the win before the clock struck zero.

men's and women's basketball teams playing alpena; photo credits: onnie stone

'The Last of Us': A loyal and powerful adaptation

Misty Barron

Hollywood has a dismal history when bringing video games to life. Many have fallen short in capturing the essence of an original story or ignored its source all together. So, when HBO announced its plans to turn one of gamers' most beloved games into a series, fans were skeptical.

'The Last of Us' was developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was released in June 2013 for the PlayStation 3 and later remastered for the PlayStation 4 in July 2014.

The game is known for its mature themes, emotional storytelling, and intense gameplay. It has received widespread critical acclaim, winning numerous awards for its graphics, sound design, and overall quality.

Those are very big shoes for any production to fill. Thankfully, HBO’s 'The Last of US' has proven to be a triumph of adaptation, capturing the heart and soul of the original game’s story, and delving even deeper into its horrific world.

Premiering Jan. 15, the first episode follows the game almost step-by-step. We're introduced to the main character, Joel, as he contends with the first moments of a strange outbreak that quickly turns into a zombie-like apocalypse. But the monsters in 'The Last of Us' aren't typical zombies. They're "the infected" - people

ravaged by the Cordyceps fungus, which takes over the bodies and minds of insects in the real world.

In a 20-year time jump, we're reintroduced to an older and more cynical Joel. Changed by the things he's had to do to survive, we find him in a world devastated by the fungus and ruled by the dictatorship of FEDRA (based on the real-life FEMA). We learn he's now a smuggler and confined to one of the many quarantine zones throughout the US. In time, he meets Ellie, a teen who must be escorted across the country.

HBO's casting is nothing short of brilliant. Pedro Pascal delivers a raw and haunted portrayal of Joel, who has been affected by grief and buried his emotions beneath a hardened exterior. Despite this, Pascal's sensitive and soulful acting allows for a gradual transformation of Joel throughout the series. Bella Ramsey, who gained recognition as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, shines in the role, dominating every scene she's in. Her portrayal of Ellie is filled with charm and confidence, making her a perfect counterpart to Joel's reserved demeanor.

'The Last of Us' is a tour de force that stays true to the game's themes of survival and love while adding more depth to the universe. The world-building is outstanding, with precise attention to

detail in recreating the game's signature environments and creatures. The music is exceptional and enhances the mood and tone of the show, adding an emotional depth to its powerful scenes. The writers have made bold storytelling choices that are sure to spark discussions and debates among fans.

This is more than just a series for fans of the game. It's a captivating and beautifully made series that will grip you from start to

finish. The show is a triumph of adaptation, delivering a faithful and raw retelling of one of the most beloved stories in video game history.

Unlike other streaming services, HBO has taken a different approach with the release of the first season of 'The Last of Us'. Instead of releasing all episodes at once, viewers can catch a new episode every Sunday at 9 p.m.

Saginaw’s Temple Theatre glows with Grammy-winning Jason Isbell and The 400

Emily Doyle - Student Submission

SAGINAW – Southern rocker and Americana icon, Jason Isbell, dazzled in the historic and often under appreciated venue at the Temple Theatre on Jan. 29.

Jason Isbell does not have a fan base with a clever name, like Beyonce’s “Beyhive” or Taylor Swift’s “Swifties”. He does not sell out stadiums, is not trending on TikTok, and does not show up on the weekly Top 40.

What Isbell does have, though, is four Grammy awards and a long, arduous history as an American roots musician; both as a member of the Drive-By Truckers and as a solo artist.

Isbell and his band, the 400 Unit, brought that talent to Saginaw with a stellar show at the historic Temple Theatre. The Temple Theatre is a local gem originally built in 1926 and refurbished in 2002. It is a 1750-seat, gold-and-maroon beauty whose aesthetic is enough to impress. Around the corner from the area’s newer, larger Dow

Event Center, the Temple Theatre does not always receive the attention it deserves.

After an impressive, if mellow, opening performance by folk musician and West African native Peter One, Isbell and the 400 Unit kicked their set off with “24 Frames.” Every audience member seemed to know all the words to the song.

The set continued with hits and deeper cuts from Isbell’s solo work, his work with the 400 Unit, and a few throwbacks to his days with the Drive-By Truckers.

More casual fans recognized the autobiographical ballad “Cover Me Up”, which gained mainstream country music popularity in recent years via a cover by Morgan Wallen. Regardless of fans’ individual knowledge of Isbell’s discography, it was a rollicking, flawless show. Seriously, Isbell may be one of the few artists who actually sounds better live than in recordings.

The 400 Unit includes Sadler Vader on

guitar, Jimbo Hart on bass, Derry DeBorja on the keyboard, and Chad Gamble playing drums. As talented as they are the venue made this show what it was. The acoustics in the theatre lent themselves to the incredible playing; personally, I can’t say I’ve been to another show that sounded this good.

Those familiar with Isbell’s history might know of the ups and downs he has faced in his career and personal life. Isbell’s struggles with alcoholism and getting sober led to his exit from the Drive-By Truckers, the dissolution of his first marriage, and ultimately, to where he is now.

He is an acclaimed artist whose work is respected across genres, who is remarried to his uber-talented band mate and mother of his child, Amanda Shires, and who has worked with the likes of Willie Nelson and the late David Crosby.

Isbell’s journey as a normal guy from a working-class family in Muscle Shoals,

Unit

Alabama, and his struggle for success, contentment, and satisfaction, are present in his music, and surely resonated with his fans in Saginaw.

When he sang about swearing off “that stuff, forever this time” in “Cover Me Up”, the crowd cheered and not for the words, really, but for him. When he lamented the loss of empathy in society and asked “Am I the last of my kind?” in “Last of My Kind”, the audience’s responses of “No!” and “We are with you!” could be heard clearly.

It only made sense for Jason Isbell to bring his music full of life’s struggles and triumphs, big and small, to the Temple Theatre in Saginaw. A better venue could not have been found, and a better crowd could not have been had. Isbell’s artistry goes beyond just the writing, or just the playing – though he’s incredibly talented in both. His true artistry lies in how he uses those avenues to connect with all normal people in places like Saginaw, Michigan.

pedro pascal and bella ramsey in the last of Us'; photo credit: hbo

We're proud to announce Poe's Corner, a new addition to the Delta Collegiate. Each month we'll share writing from students and staff. This month, enjoy a poem inspired by the Netflix series 'You'.

As beautiful as “You”

By La’Niya Jones

Well, hello there. It seems we meet again, Yet this time your chestnut hair is pulled up in an elegant bun, Instead of laying down your shoulders in a jungle of curls. You're wearing a flowy blue dress, Something that catches the eye But not too much. You're trying to blend in.

You seem to be waiting for someone As you pace in front of the oak bookshelf for the twelfth time. Looking up and stopping whenever you hear the jingle of the door, And every time I see a glimmer of hope in your forest green eyes, Only for them to dye out when it's not who you're looking for.

Instantly, your eyes flicker to your hands, Which have somehow found their way to your necklace.

It must have sentimental value based on the way you're holding it. The gem is cradled in your hand like it's made of glass.

A small smile tugs at the corners of your pin-

Your red lips, interesting choice You must be feeling bold today, Though no matter, you still look radiant.

If only I could make you smile.

(Inhale)

Oh no, your face suddenly morphs into disappointment.

A soft sigh escaping the gap between your lips.

Who made you feel this way?

All I need is a name, and the rest is history.

You quickly drop the necklace back down on your soft, bare skin And turn my way. And for a moment I felt like the entire world stopped.

I now see every freckle on your face,

‘Velma’ season one review

Jack Kroll - Student Submission

HBO Max recently released an original adult animated TV series called “Velma.” The first season consists of ten twenty-minute episodes. 'Velma' is another incarnation of the beloved “Scooby-Doo” series and has received plenty of media attention following its release.

'Velma' covers the story of how Daphne, Fred, Velma, and Norville, otherwise known as Shaggy, formed the famous mystery-solving group. The show mainly surrounds Velma in high school in the fictional town of Crystal Cove working to solve the mysteries behind her missing mother and murders that occur throughout the show.

'Velma' has been met with plenty of negative reviews following its release, but what makes the show displeasing to many viewers? 'Velma' falls victim to several issues including following the same tropes the show mocks such as having a poorly developed main character, and poorly conveying good messages and themes, making 'Velma' unappealing to watch.

“Velma's” first blunder is that the show frequently mocks tired plot elements that are then incorporated into the show. The writers often make jokes about typical young adult tropes, such as the overused love triangle trope. However, much of 'Velma' consists of the same tropes that the show mocks. For example, while the writers mock the "love triangle" situation prominent in many young

If you're interested in submitting your writing for publication, please contact deltacollegiate@gmail.com

Connecting and trying to map out a story.

With your checks dusted a rosy pink, You look like an angel Even in this terrible lighting.

Heck, you probably sound like an angel. I fear that if I ever heard your voice, I wouldn’t be able to get enough of it. It would consume me whole, Leaving me gasping for air.

Sadly, just as quickly as you turned my way, you turned back around. Playing hard to get, I see No matter I’ll bite. Patience is key when it comes to something As beautiful as you.

Who exactly are you waiting for?

Ah, it seems like the universe wants me to know, As the door jingles open. And suddenly, without warning, you break out of your bubble. You smile so brightly that I’m afraid I may go blind.

You quickly walk to the door, almost tripping on your own feet. Who could make you this happy? And without warning a leather arm wraps around your waist

Hosting you up and spinning you around.

How dare he put his hands on you? Glancing him over, I can tell he isn’t perfect for you. He dresses like a slob and, from here, I can tell he reeks of beer. You whisper something to him, and he just nods and types away on his phone. And for a second, I see your face starting to dim.

You deserve someone put together, Someone who smells like old books, Someone who pays attention to you. No worries; he is just a pawn Who doesn’t know how to treat a queen.

And once I’m done with him, he’ll know You're mine.

character that the viewers can relate to, the writers keep her flawed personality. This contributes to the unenjoyable experience of the series by making the character with the most screen time the least likable.

adult romance stories, they then construct a love triangle between characters in the show. This makes the show feel too self-aware, making certain moments of the show unenjoyable.

“Velma’s” second mistake arises because the writers poorly develop Velma’s character. Velma could be defined as judgmental, self-conscious, and manipulative. Dialogue between Velma and other characters blatantly vocalizes these flaws for comedic effect, but the writers do nothing with Velma’s personality.

Velma continually exhibits her flaws throughout the show, and instead of developing her into a more likable

Lastly, 'Velma' poorly conveys the underlying messages of the show regarding the effects of negative stereotypes and the over-sexualization of women in American media. For example, the writers included many jokes that point out the over-sexualization of women in American media and culture. However, the writers and animators add numerous scenes and animations that are overtly sexualized, making 'Velma' feel contradictory to the messages it is trying to convey. The other messages and themes of the show also fall victim to this issue, leaving the viewer with a poorer experience overall.

While 'Velma' has plenty of issues that make the show unenjoyable for many audiences, some may find amusement in the show. The style of 'Velma' and the tropes of the story are similar to other teen dramas such as “Riverdale”, and fans of teen drama may find 'Velma' entertaining. However, for most audiences, 'Velma' will likely provide a displeasing viewing experience due to the show being too self-aware, having a flawed main character, and poorly communicating the show’s positive messages and themes.

The strange and incomplete history of Valentine's Day

the holiday.

One person named Valentine was said to be a priest who went against Emperor Claudius II. The emperor believed that single men were better soldiers than those who were married and had families. In his eyes, he wanted to give Rome better soldiers, so he passed a rule that outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine did not agree with that, and instead of following orders, he continued to marry young lovers in private. When the emperor found out, he ordered that Valentine be killed for his actions.

celebration of Lupercalia (February 13th15th) as the inspiration for Valentine’s Day.

Lupercalia was a celebration of fertility dedicated to the Roman god of agriculture, Faunus, and the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. The feast of Lupercalia was an interesting one, to say the least. It was said to be celebrated to purify the city and help promote health and fertility.

influences and bring more Christianity into the culture.

The interesting thing is that Valentine's Day did not get associated with love until around the Middle Ages. During this time, it was believed that February 14th was the start of mating season for birds in France and England.

Valentine's Day is the day of love for some and the day of despair for others. What is the real history behind this day of love? To be quite honest, the history of the holiday is a complete mystery, but there are many theories surrounding it.

Many celebrate Feb. 14 by sending chocolates, bears, notes, flowers, and much more to their loved ones. While others celebrate curled up on the couch with ice cream.

Let's first look at some people named Valentine who may have contributed to

Another theory is that Valentine was a prisoner who fell in love, as some say, with his jailer's daughter. Before his death, he sent the first “Valentine’s greeting” to the young woman that he fell in love with. To end his letter, he signed it “from your Valentine,” a phrase that is still used today.

Though it isn't clear who exactly Valentine was, he was still seen as someone heroic and sympathetic who would later represent a romantic figure. These stories lead many people to believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated as the anniversary of Valentine's death. Any holes left in the stories were filled by people over the years and molded into something that would be an inspiration for Valentine’s Day.

Other people look to the pagan

Roman priests were members of Luperci. They met at the Lupercal cave (the cave where Romulus and Remus grew up being taken care of by a she-wolf, or lupa) and sacrificed a goat for fertility and a dog for purification.

They took the goat hide and dipped it in the sacrificial blood, and with that, they gently hit women and crop fields. It was believed that its touch would make them more fertile in the year to come, and many Roman women embraced this. Another thing is that they had a lottery for love. Young women would put their name in an urn, and bachelors would choose a name and pair up with them for a year; many matches ended in marriage.

When Christianity swept over the Roman Empire, pagan events like Lupercalia were not acceptable, and many holidays were converted to fit Christian beliefs. Some people believe that Valentine’s Day was made to erase pagan

Cupid? A history on this symbol of love

La’Niya Jones

Cupid, the chubby angel baby with a diaper who goes around shooting people with arrows to make them fall in love, has been the big staple for February 14th. The perfect symbol of love and amazing mascot for Valentine’s Day but, who exactly is Cupid?

Cupid is known as the Roman god of love and is said to be the son of Mercury, the winged messenger of the gods, and Venus, the goddess of love.

Like many Roman gods and goddesses, Cupid is a counterpart to a Greek god, that god being Eros. Looks wise Eros is the complete opposite of Cupid. Eros was known for being the handsome god of love, represented by a young man instead of a chubby infant. Eros is first introduced by poet Hesiod around 700 B.C. in his poem “Theogony.”

In this piece, Hesiod says that Eros was one of the primordial gods, meaning that he came into existence without parents and

instead had Chaos (the emptiness of the universe) be his creator. The story of Eros’ creation has been twisted many times. The most common is that people started to believe that Eros’ mother was Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, with his potential fathers ranging from Zeus, king of the gods, to Ares, god of war, and to Hermes, messenger of the gods.

Personality-wise Eros was described as a bit of a trickster. He was seen as being playful and mischievous at times, but that could instantly switch if you got on his bad side. He would plan surprise attacks and toy with his victims, leaving them in a daze of passion and confusion. With his arrows, Eros was able to make anyone fall in love, something that is still seen in Cupid. His arrows could lead to a bliss of love or torture.

For a long time during the Archaic period of Greece, Eros was represented by a very strong and attractive man who

was alluring to many humans and gods. As time went on, he began to get younger and younger. In the Hellenistic period of Greece, Eros was morphed into a mischievous child, which played a role in the creation of the modern-day infant Cupid.

It is not clear exactly why Cupid went from a handsome young man to a curly-headed infant. It could be in relation to art during the Renaissance. During this time, putti (male babies or toddlers) were introduced in artwork; they were used to represent pure love and looked similar to angels. Cupid later took in some of their features to fit with the time period, and it has been like that since.

Cupid himself was not immune to love and ended up falling in love and marrying Psyche, the goddess of the soul, against Venus’s wishes. Venus was jealous of Psyche’s beauty, so she ordered her son to make her fall in love with a monster. That backfired, and instead Cupid took Psyche to a remote

The first recorded mention of Valentine’s Day as a day of love celebration came from poet Geoffrey Chaucer’s poem “Parlement of Foules,” written around 1375. The poem talks about birds meeting to choose their mates on St. Valentine's Day. The origins of why he wrote the poem are a bit blurry. He either took inspiration from how the day was celebrated or he added some fiction, which later inspired the day to connect with love.

The earliest Valentine’s Day greeting came in 1415 from the Duke of Orleans, Charles, to his wife Marie.

As the years passed, Valentine’s Day continued to evolve and morph into something sweet and beautiful.

Though the origin of the whole holiday is not picture-perfect, you are still able to see inspiration being pulled from many sources. The day of love has neither a true beginning nor a true ending. So, grab some chocolates, flowers, or candy, and prepare for this Valentine's Day

location to protect her from his mother, and they would meet in total darkness. Shortly, Cupid and Psyche started a relationship where Psyche couldn’t see Cupid’s face. One day Psyche let her curiosity win and lit a lamp, resulting in her seeing a glimpse of Cupid’s face; Cupid was angered and flew away. Psyche searched every inch of the world and even fell into the hands of Venus, who gave her difficult challenges. Seeing how determined Psyche was for their love, Cupid rescued her, and she was granted immortality by Jupiter.

Due to his connection with love, 19th century Victorians, known as the people who popularized Valentine’s Day, started using him as a holiday mascot. Cupid is now placed everywhere in correlation with the day of love. So, when arrows fly this Valentine's Day, know it’s all from your chubby baby friend Cupid.

La’Niya Jones

Why Kamala Harris should run in the

2024 Presidential election

Shibi Prabhakar - Student Submission

As the midterm elections ended, the next big race to focus on is the Presidential election in 2024. Everyone is wondering who it will be in 2024. I believe the best and most qualified candidate would be Vice President Kamala Harris.

As a political science student and as a fellow South Asian American, I feel so proud when I see Harris on the stage representing us as a country and representing people like me.

Harris began her career as a prosecutor in the 90s and was a prosecutor in San Francisco by 2003. Elected attorney general of California in 2011. She then went on to be elected to the U.S. Senate in 2017 and, in 2020, was asked to be the vicepresidential candidate for Joe Biden’s presidential ticket.

Harris has been the first Black and South Asian woman in every office she has held.

I feel people have not realized all her accomplishments and the magnitude of her representation.

Harris has never been afraid to put her voice out there and be considered controversial. For example, when David Hill killed officer Isaac Espinoza, she stood up against the death penalty.

Plus she defended samesex marriage even when it was not considered a widespread political issue. Harris has also been a part of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), protecting and defending the rights of LGBTQ Americans.

When looking at her policy, she has significantly impacted the government on a local and national level. As an attorney general, she created the “Back on Track Program” to help

people with drug convictions to have a fresh start by earning their GED and participating in the community. This program has been an enormous success.

During the mortgage crisis, according to Reuters, Harris got $20 billion from big bank corporations for homeowners, which helped around 150,000 homeowners.

As a senator, according to ProPublica, Harris sponsored 52 bills from the 2017-2018 term and 80 bills in the 2019-2020 term, which is a total of 132 bills in four years tackling different political issues from LGBTQ equality, climate change, women's rights, and so much more. So, to anybody that says Harris has not done anything in the Senate, she has done plenty.

She is absolutely a force to be reckoned with. I still remember when she was questioning nowJustice Brett Kavanaugh during his confirmation hearings, asking him, “can you think of any laws that give the government the power to make decisions about the male body?” And Kavanaugh didn’t have an answer. That’s the Harris that I know and love.

Nowadays, people say they do not see much about her and do not know what she does as the vice president. The truth is that a person who follows her social media will know that she is meeting different world leaders and strengthening our country’s relationships with them.

During midterms, she traveled across the country to help endorse political candidates. I feel that racism and misogyny played a significant role in her media representation. I am not the only one to feel this way.

According to a “times up report,” adjectives describing Harris are more pessimistic. Over 36% of media coverage focused on her race rather than her professional accomplishments when she was just the VP candidate.

Many still feel that 2024 is far away, but the truth is that 2024 is fast approaching. We must look at the political possibilities. President Joe Biden is too old to run for office again and needs to put a fresh face on the party.

Also, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has not expressed interest in running for the 2024 election.

Then there is Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, who, in my opinion, needs more geopolitical experience to grasp our country’s needs better.

So, because of those reasons regarding different possible candidates, I feel that Harris is not only the most qualified person for 2024 but is the right person for the democratic ticket based on her political experience and the work she is continuing to do.

So don't count Harris out, folks.

vice president kamala harris ; photo credit: whitehoUse media Since

1961, the Delta Collegiate has been written and produced by Delta students for students without any input or oversight by administration. The paper does not represent the views of Delta College, its faculty, staff or administration. Stories are selected by the student staff members to bring reliable information and entertainment to our readers.

EDITORIAL

It is time for a makeover on law enforcement training

The staff of the Delta Collegiate call for a restructuring of the police training system as a means to end police brutality. With the recent killing of Tyre Nichols, who was brutally beaten during a traffic stop, it is clear that the current law enforcement system in the U.S. has fundamental flaws that must be addressed.

The consequences of ignoring the issue have been and continue to be demonstrably deadly.

A nonprofit organization called Mapping Police Violence is dedicated to tracking police killings. 2022 was the worst year in the past decade for deaths, a total of 1,192 people were slain. There were only 12 days out of the year had no recorded deaths by an officer.

Additionally, and frighteningly, Nichols’ story is not unique. Around 7% of deaths involving law enforcement began with a mere traffic stop.

Some may think that in all of these scenarios the police were justified in their use of force. That, in each case, the officer was helplessly trapped in a life-or-death situation. This is simply not true. In roughly a quarter of cases, the slain were attempting to flee in some manner from the police. Why did they not just comply? They would still be alive if they just followed the officer’s orders, right?

Consider the case of Adam Toledo, who was only 13 years old when he encountered an officer. Toledo had been carrying a weapon when he was commanded to show his hands. The boy dropped his gun, and put his hands up next to his head. He was shot and killed moments after.

Another example is Ryan Whitaker. He is a 40-year-old who had the police summoned to his apartment after a noise complaint. He answered the door with a gun. Upon realizing he was speaking with an officer he set the weapon aside and laid on the ground, hands empty. Whitaker was also shot and killed. Even when one complies, they have a very real chance that they may die, despite doing everything right.

And sometimes, the situation is completely out of the officers hands. Sometimes its just pure error on the part of the officer that costs a life.

Take, for instance, Daunte Wright. He was fatally shot after an encounter with the police who mistook their gun for a taser. Nothing could have changed this situation except a

change in training for law enforcement.

All of these examples indicates a certain degree of carelessness that seems to surround law enforcement, a certain recklessness that proves to be fatal to an unconscionable degree. In fact, the U.S. has the seventh highest police killing rate in the world, beating out countries such as Afghanistan.

Yes, a country that is run by the Taliban, with who we fought for two decades, has less police kills than the U.S.

The obvious objection there is that America has millions more people than Afghanistan. Of course the U.S. would have a higher rate because there is more officers, and more criminals too. Confrontations are just more likely.

complete their training.

Additionally, the U.K., who have a fatal encounter rate of only .5 per 10 million people (yes, you read that right, the decimal is meant to be there), train for around three years.

There are a couple other things that the U.K. does regarding its police that beat out the U.S.

For one, the British expect constant training. That means it is an expectation that the police will still be learning how to be better officers while they are already a law enforcement agent by attending classes. This is not expected in America.

The U.K. requires at least a college-level degree. America typically requires no more than a high school diploma.

It should be obvious that the training American officers get is terribly insufficient, to put it lightly. It is so bad, in fact, that the only countries that have a lower bar to joining the police is Iraq and Afghanistanand the latter has a lower death rate than the U.S. anyways!

Even dismissing the extremely poor training times and horribly lackluster requirements, the actual quality of the training the police receive is dismal as well.

Even still, if you take the police killing rate per capita (that is, how many people are killed by the police out of ten million people), the U.S. places far above comparable nations. The U.S. has a rate of about 28 out of 10 million people killed by the police. While Canada has under ten people.

A closer comparison would be Mexico, who have 30 people killed by the police. You know, the same police that have been said to have officers who are also part of a cartel? Not exactly the law enforcement group you would want to emulate.

So what exactly has gone wrong with American law enforcement?

Much of what is at play here comes down to a simple lack of training.

On average, an American officer spends about 21 weeks in training. For comparison, the average college semester takes about 16 weeks, only about a month less time.

Canadian officers, who as previously stated have a much lower rate in fatal police encounters, takes upwards of half a year to

Police are taught to be on constant vigilance as they fight for their lives in the most dangerous occupations outside the military. They are taught by people, who more often than one would want to believe, have ties to extremist groups. They are re told that reveling in the violence is acceptable because they’re the vanguard against criminal scum.

Some state governments do not even bother to review what courses officers are being enrolled in. In one such instance, New Jersey allowed a class to be taught by a former officer who had involved in an excessive force suit.

Another time, it was revealed that an approved training course that thousands of law enforcement agents had been through was using racist and homophobic slurs as part of the material.

These examples of inadequacies and downright unacceptable happenings that lead to police related killings are short compared to the many more out there. Police brutality must end, and in order for that to happen, the entire training system needs a complete overhaul.

Collegiate Staff

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The Delta Collegiate is an award-winning, student-run, multi-media news organization which strives to educate, entertain, and engage the Delta College community and beyond.

Heather Kittle heatherkittle@delta.edu Head of Video Productions

La'Niya Jones laniyajones@delta.edu Journalist

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Ruby Schwalm rubyschwalm@delta.edu Social Media Cooridnator

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Misty Barron mistybarron@delta.edu Page Editor

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Vincent Khan vincentkhan@delta.edu Multimedia Journalist

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