SAN JACINTO TIMES Vol. 24, No. 6
Black History Month e student publication of the San Jacinto College District
February 17, 2014
San Jacinto College pays tribute
National Archives/MCT
Wide-angle view shows marchers along the National Mall at the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument during the Civil Rights March on Washington, August 28, 1963.
National Archives/MCT
Martin Luther King, Jr. speaks during the Civil Rights March on Washington, August 28, 1963.
North campus panel discussion asks, ‘Are the struggles the same?’
Marlena Payne Staff Writer
San Jacinto College North Campus’s Men of Honor group will sponsor a student panel to discuss racial discrimination of the Civil Rights Movement and how it impacts male minority students today. The panel will discuss the question “Are the Struggles the Same?” “We decided that a panel discussion made up of
students discussing their view of racial discrimination today might be interesting and provide for a lively discussion,” Ronald Hopkins, Director of Men of Honor said. He further added the main goal of the panel is to get students thinking about how things have changed, or remained the same. According to Hopkins, Men of Honor was founded by faculty, staff and administrators to increase retention, instill persistence, and motivate men of color to graduate while supporting the mission and
Job Fair features healthcare industry employers
Randi Crowder Staff Writer
San Jacinto College’s North Campus Career Services and the Healthcare Pathways Grant will host a Health Science Job Fair on Thursday, Feb. 20. Job seekers can speak with employers from different health care areas including hospitals, home health care, optometrists, long-term care facilities, EMT services, and more. Beginning at 11 a.m., employers will have individual tables set up inside of Allied Health Science Building Atrium. The Healthcare Pathways Grant is a U.S. Department of Labor healthcare occupations training grant. Grant Training Coordinator Nancy Martin said the grant’s interest in the job fair is to train around 1,000 students over a three-year period and to have them all employed by the grant’s end date, June 20, 2014. “We hope for all of the job seekers to have an opportunity to one: find employment; two: see what is available in the job market; and, three: obtain valuable experience in speaking, discussing the job market and
values of the San Jacinto College District. “We help them try to understand,” Hopkins said, “how study skills and time and personal management is important in order to have success in college. We also help them understand issues related to money management, manners and etiquette and dressing for success just to name a few.” Additionally, Hopkins said students benefit from mentoring relationships with deans, professors, advisors and staff throughout all of the campuses.
North campus professor Dr. Lamar McWaine said, “I consider it an honor to be in a position to be able to serve as a mentor. I didn’t know anything about college when I started, but I was fortunate to find mentors on campus that provided sound advice and would make strong suggestions if they saw me doing something that I could do better.” The discussion panel will meet Feb. 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Welcome Center on the North campus. More Black History Month events on pages 4 & 5
International Festival celebrates cultural diversity
interviewing with employers in the area,” Martin said. North Campus Career and Employment Coordinator Dinorah Ramos said students will learn the importance of how body language, wearing proper attire, and firm hand-shakes continue to be the upmost skills needed to land a job. “Get connected with real people,” Ramos said. “In an era where social networking is controlling the way we communicate, the job fair will provide an opportunity for face to face interactions.” Martin said that job seekers who plan on attending the Health Science Job Fair should bring resumes and dress professionally. “Plan, prepare and prioritize,” Ramos said. “Prepare a plan of action. Plan the time you will spend visiting with employers and bring plenty of resumes.” Martin said San Jac South and Central campuses hosted their own successful Health Science Job Fairs during fall 2013. “The outcome of job fairs is typically pretty good,” Martin said. “Student participation has been excellent in the past.”
Krystina Salazar Staff Writer
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students will celebrate the first International Festival at the San Jacinto College Central Campus. Members from the ESOL program will join together Monday, Feb. 24 in the atrium of the Student Center beginning at 11 a.m. to mix and mingle between classes. “There will be music, crafts, displays, food, traditional clothing, and demonstrations,” said event coordinator Rayna Shaunfield. Among the festivities, participants plan to showcase several ethnic traditions from different heritages. “I believe that as we learn more about other cultures, we enhance our view of the world, appreciate the diversity, and recognize the commonalities of all humankind,” Shaunfield said.
According to the Office of Enrollment Services, thousands of international students have already made San Jac their school of choice for pursuing higher education while focusing on everyday vocal and college preparatory needs. “I’m pretty surprised to hear that our college is so widely known by international students,” student Ashley Trevino said. The competitive platform is offered to both resident and non-resident students who want to improve their English language skills. “I think the program is good because it gives students the opportunity to feel more confident and acknowledged,” Trevino said. The organization plans on representing a multitude of countries around the globe this year including, “Viet Nam, China, Thailand, Palestine, Colombia, El Salvador, Bolivia, the Philippines, Mexico, and Czechoslovakia,” said Shaunfield. “Let’s celebrate our cultural diversity! Our ESOL students are excited about sharing their heritage and customs.”
TACHE SJC students to attend Fort Worth conference
Stephanie Jones Staff Writer
Five faculty and seven student members of the Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education (TACHE) San Jacinto College Student Chapter will at-
tend the 39th Annual TACHE Conference taking place in Fort Worth Feb. 19 to 22. Both TACHE and the Conference aim to promote shared success and prosperity among Hispanics through higher education. Saul Zarco, Co-Representative
of TACHE Gulf Coast Region said students attending the conference can expect to find a number of available resources. “There will be student conference sessions, as well as networking opportunities with students from various Texas community colleges and univer-
sities,” Zarco said. Furthermore, Adviser Dina Castillo said, “One of the topics that the TACHE-SJC Student Chapter students will be attending is Latino/a: Fraternities and Sororities Impact on College Retention and Graduation.” The Conference will feature sev-
eral notable speakers that support the organization’s objectives including Betsy Price, Mayor of Fort Worth, and Raymund Paredes, Commissioner of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. “TACHE SJC Student Group’s goal,” Zarco said, “is to foster an
understanding of the importance of higher education for advancement in one’s chosen profession.” As a result, Castillo said, “TACHE offers the opportunity for students to become leaders in their community and within their families as well.”
San Jacinto Times
February 17, 2014
Opinion/Commentary
Page 2
Ef goes ‘round town: Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack
Efren Diosdado Department Editor
Recommending a new place to eat is always a difficult thing to do, but not when recommending a place like Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack. Despite the fact that it’s a hole in the wall that gets no respect from the City (judging by the number of highways built around it), nothing has stopped Bubba’s from staying in business. This
diamond in the rough is a local favorite that never seems to disappoint. Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack is famous for their buffalo meat burgers. They have served buffalo burgers for over 25 years and were once the only place in Houston selling buffalo meat. It’s one of the few places still selling buffalo burgers, but it’s the best out of all the others. The buffalo burger at Bubba’s is hands down the juiciest burger I’ve ever had. When my friend told me about it, he not only recommended it he vehemently vouched for it. He swore on his life. He bet everything he had that that burger, was the most delicious thing he has ever eaten. After trying it, I must say I vouch for it, as well. This burger did not disappoint from the first bite to the last. Since my first visit, I have upped my dosage to the double buffalo. Buffalo meat is not only delicious, but it’s also nutritious. Buffalo is leaner
than turkey and chicken. Compared to beef, it has 70% less fat, 50% fewer calories, 50% less cholesterol, and 30% more protein. Also, according to Bubba’s Burger Shack website, their buffalo meat is 100% natural meaning – grass-fed and not injected with any man-made chemicals or additives. It’s a good place for all the muscle bulkers trying to get their protein intake. Although it’s the best burger in the city, it’s not pricey at all. It’s affordable for any college student barely getting by. A buffalo burger, a drink, and a bag of chips will run you about $10. It beats Jack in the Box’s munchie meal, and you don’t have to wait until 9 pm to buy it. If you’re not quite ready to try the buffalo burger, there are other great items on the menu like the quarter pound hot dog, regular cheeseburgers, chiliburgers, buffalo steak sandwiches and more.
Courtesy of Hellen Papadacos
The deceiving shack sits quietly among Galleria highrises.
There’s not much to see when you pull up to it; just a toll road, a freeway, and a bunch of cars driving past you. It’s hard not to be judgmental when you first drive into the parking lot, but
Keili’s Korner: knocked-up Norwood
Keili Harrison
Department Editor
Turmoil surrounds the Texans’ turf, and no I’m not referring to their 214 train wreck of a season. This Houston havoc involves a busty blonde claiming to have an All-Star’s bun in the oven. Brittany
Norwood, 20, of Houston broke the news to TMZ reps of her pregnancy with Texans’ running back, Arian Foster. Mind you, Foster is married with two kids. Shocking, I know. Norwood further claimed Foster and his brother pressured her into aborting the pregnancy. Her attorney filed a restraining order against both brothers, as well as a civil suit for monetary damages (for the emotional distress of carrying the baby of an NFL superstar, I would assume). In a titillating twist, audio clips released to the press feature a phone conversation between the two in which Norwood tells Foster she never made the above accusations. To curve it right back, the beaming baby mama and her mother spoke
with KHOU after the audio was released. They both stood by the initial story claiming Foster pressured Norwood for an abortion. Due to the questionable variations of Ms. Norwood’s story, critics are calling her behavior an attempt to make Foster her meal ticket. “I feel as though she may have been trying to get pregnant. Am I allowed to say that on the air?” a skeptical Sports Radio 610 listener said during a call-in show. After a photo of Norwood in a gold digger Halloween costume went public, Houstonians jumped to take the side of their beloved running back. Foster is not denying the child is his, but it is rumored he is preparing a countersuit against Norwood for defaming his name in a quest for
money. Although in the public’s view, the baby mama beauty seems to be in this for the cash, she claims it was love that brought the couple together. Whether it was a sought-out scheme, an act of true love, or simply an accident, Foster should have respected his marriage and furthermore, he should have expected there would be consequences. With any luck, the two will get their heads on, and their stories, straight, and a baby Foster boy will enter this world under peaceful circumstances; as we all hope (yeah right, we love the juice). The former lovers are scheduled to meet in court Feb. 24 to discuss Norwood’s civil suit, but until then, the judge has ordered the pair to refrain from seeing each other.
Giovann’s quest for mind cultivation: learning to leave lasting impressions
Giovann Rosales Department Editor
Social media serves as a platform for individuals to portray their everyday lives. Long before the arrival of social
media, artists of the nineteenth century succeeded in portraying everyday life in their paintings. This movement in art is called Impressionism. The Houston Museum of Fine Arts (HMFA) is showcasing works from that movement as part of The Age of Impressionism exhibit. The exhibition features over seventy works of art including works from some of the era’s most famous artist such as Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and Camille Pissarro. I visited the exhibition and was very impressed with the line-up. I convinced one of my San Jac classmates to attend, as well. Lori Rodriguez is a part-time student with a full-time job. Work and
school take up most of her time, and during her free time, she enjoys relaxing at home. Her boyfriend is an artist, so she does not have much exposure to art other than what she sees at home. She enjoyed the exhibit even though it was quite different from the art she is accustomed to. “I’m not an artsy kind of girl,” Rodriguez said, “but I have to admit that I really enjoyed the exhibit. My boyfriend is an aspiring artist, and I love his work. This was very different art than what I am used to seeing at home. It was very educational, and I felt relaxed just sitting there analyzing the painting that was in front of me. I think I am going to make a trip to the museum a habit.” I appreciated her reaction because
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most young adults are consumed by television and social media. Each medium can be educational, but sometimes it is good to stray away from both and stimulate our minds through the fine arts. Students have a special admission price of $15.50 on weekends and $12.50 on weekdays. A valid school I.D. must be presented in order to receive the discounted price. The exhibit will be on display through March 23, so if you have some free time, try and make your way to the HMFA. Your visit will be an educational experience that offers great material for dinner conversations. If nothing else, it will leave your dining companions with a great impression.
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ADVISER
Hellen Papadacos
PRODUCTION MANAGER Sara Quintana
ADVERTISING Sara Quintana
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexis Davlin
DEPARTMENT EDITORS Efren Diosdado Keili Harrison Giovann Rosales
PAGE DESIGNERS Sara Quintana
CIRCULATION MANAGER Max Estudillo
STAFF WRITERS Bradley Croman Randi Crowder Robert Harris
Osiris Hernandez
Savannah Jackson Stephanie Jones Hannah King
Michael Leedy
Marlena Payne Brandon Peña
Krystina Salizar Rachel Smith Emily Wolfe
The San Jacinto Times is published five times a semester by the journalism students at San Jacinto College Central, 8060 Spencer Highway, Pasadena, TX 77505. Opinions expressed herein are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the staff, its adviser, the administration or the Board of Regents. The Times encourages letters to the editor. Letters must be in good taste, accurate, free from libel, malice or personal controversy. Letters must be limited to 200 words in length. Letters submitted
the food speaks for itself. I kind of enjoy sitting outside and watching the cars drive by. Most of them probably don’t know what they’re missing.
Davlin’s tips: ‘Resolutionaries’ overflow gym
Alexis Davlin Editor-in-chief
Resolutionaries. That’s what I call all the fitness newbies that roll into the gym every January with the latest shoes and workout clothes only to be gone by February. Why does this happen to Resolutionaries? How do we keep up the drive that was so fierce on Jan. 1? I have worked as a Healthy Living Assistant for six years at a fitness facility. My role is to give people a routine and a healthier way of living. So, I see this flood of people each and every year. Resolutionaries come in with willing hearts and so much enthusiasm they can’t even think straight. Erica Barber, a member at the fitness facility says she used to be a Resolutionary until she found a new trick to keep her going. “I would always make these crazy resolutions on losing weight and getting more fit,” Barber says. “I always burned myself out. These past two years I discovered taking classes and making friends made me more accountable for going.” Some can work out alone and hold themselves accountable, but I see that members work out more efficiently and more often when they have a friend to work out with. It makes it more fun and competitive instead of just going to a machine and making up workouts to get through it. Central campus student Ashley Narvaez says she finally asked for help instead of doing it alone and risking failure for another year. “I was too embarrassed to ask someone,” Narvaez says, “or admit that I needed help, but I spoke with a girl in my class that seemed pretty nice and could always be seen running on campus. She gave me what I needed to go on my journey to a healthier lifestyle.” The key is don't be afraid to ask questions and talk to people. You either want a healthier lifestyle or not. There are people out there that will help you and guide you to your goals. So take that leap of faith. Make a resolution this year not to be a Resolutionary. Make your pledge a lifestyle.
without the author’s signature will not be accepted. The staff reserves the right to edit the letters for accuracy without altering the general meaning. Letters can be e-mailed to Hellen.Papadacos@sjcd.edu. Letters must include name and phone number for verification. The digital edition of the Times is available at http://issuu.com/sanjacintotimes. Advertising space is available for $5.00 per column inch. Special rates are available. For news tips and information on advertising, contact the Times at 281478-2752.
February 17, 2014
San Jacinto Times
Page 3
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Top Brass comes together for music concert
San Jac music professor Dr. Karen Marston will perform with the group, under the artistic direction of Stefan Sanders. According to Marston, the small chamber ensemble will play music of all styles ranging from classical traditional transcription overtures by Giuseppe Verdi, to an arrangement by Pop Star Bjork and Sten Kenton Tunes. “There will be things on the program that appeal to everyone,” Marston said. “General music enthusiasts will find a really wide variety of styles to listen to. The program moves pretty quickly in between styles so if you don’t like something the next selection will be different.” Furthermore, the artists will work with San Jac music students during their stay here as part of their educational outreach efforts. “Chamber Music is a really great opportunity for kids to learn about music. It’s mobile. We can go anywhere and so were able to match educational outreach mission with a performance mission,” Marston said. Additionally, Marston said her goal for this concert, as for every other performance, is to captivate the audience. “I mean, I always like when I’m finished performing,” she said, “that everybody in the whole room, the audience and the musicians are all very excited and very engaged in what’s Photo Courtesy of Resonance Brass Choir going on.” The Resonance Brass Choir will perform at Corbin Recital Marston said, she feels this concert is Hall March 1. one that will appeal to a wide range of musical tastes. “It’s not just for the brass players,” she said, Osiris Hernandez “it’s not just for people who already listen to Staff Writer classical music. It’s so that anyone could find something that they enjoy.” The Resonance Brass Choir will perform in the Recognized artists from across Texas will come to San Jacinto College Central Campus on Jan Corbin Recital Hall on Central campus March 1 as a stop on the Resonance Brass Choir March 1 at 7 p.m. There is no charge for admission. Concert Series.
Monster comedy comes alive on San Jac Central’s stage
The San Jacinto College Central Campus Department of Theatre and Film will raise its curtain for the debut performance of “Young Frankenstein” Feb. 19. The production is a retelling of Mel Brooks’ 1974 classic comedy film of the same name. According to the play’s director Ralph Ehntholt, the story is relatively the same, but there are some new features. “It was a great film that the young people like,” Ehntholt said. “And now they’ve added music to it which adds to the humor of it. It’s a comedy following the classic horror movie style, à la ‘Dracula’, ‘Frankenstein’; the original where there’s nothing grizzly shown, but the sense of danger is always there.” Sophomore Sandra Meza believes the shows produced by the College’s theater company play a significant role in students’ lives. “It’s what most societies are based on,” Meza said. “I think there is a lot to learn from theater. A lot of the tragedies relate to people.”
Photo Courtesy of San Jacinto College Department of Theatre & Film
Production on “Young Frankenstein” began last school year with a brainstorming session in late spring of Photo Courtesy of San Jacinto College 2013. The deDepartment of Theatre & Film signs were due Theater veteran Ralph Ehntholt at the end of the year, and directs horror classic at SJC.
the actors were cast at the beginning of this semester. Even though the weather has proved a problem for production, Ehntholt remains optimistic about the show and assures that the show’s run dates with not be affected. “We’ve had the freezes… We’ve lost about five nights of rehearsals,” Ehntholt said. “We’re going to end up with a great show no matter what.” “Young Frankenstein” will run Feb. 19 through Feb. 23 in Slocomb Auditorium. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. for the Sunday, Feb. 23 matinee. Box office information is available at (281) 476-1828.
EOI
Around Campus
San Jacinto Times
Competition showcases San Jac Talent Savannah Jackson Staff Writer
The Student Government Association (SGA) of San Jacinto College Central Campus is hosting the second annual San Jac’s Got Talent competition on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 7:00 P.M. in the ballroom of the William M. Newton Student Center. The contest will showcase the talents of students from all three campuses who were selected from auditions held Feb. 5. The panel of judges will include a student, a faculty member, and local professional singer Arabella Jones. SGA Central campus President Jay Banisham said the proceeds from the event will benefit a good cause. “As far as tickets go,” Banisham said, “anyone is welcome to come. We are going to make it a donation event and all proceeds will go to the Aids Walk Foundation.” Contest winners will receive first, second, and third prize trophies. Student Deidre Nash said she is excited about the show. “I will most definitely attend to support my fellow students,” Nash said. Fellow Lara Nell said she did not know about the talent competition, but now plans on attending. “I’m glad you told me about the event,” Nell said, “I would love to go to that.” Meanwhile, the SGA hopes many students will get involved and attend. “We really hope that the students of San Jac will come and show their support,” Banisham said, “not only for this great foundation, but also their school.”
Central’s ThinkFast Trivia game spotlights Black History Month
Michael Leedy Staff Writer
ThinkFast Interactive Audience-Response Trivia is in its third year at San Jacinto College Central Campus and will take the opportunity to feature content based on Black history in honor of Black History Month for their February game. The first round of the two-round game starts at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 25 in the Student Center. Student Life Coordinator Amanda Rose
said this event has multiple objectives. “It is to benefit students and educate them,” Rose said. “It brings awareness to Black History Month and informs the students while letting them have fun.” Student Stewart Wynegar said this particular trivia game is “a valuable opportunity.” “It’s a chance to not only learn a very unique part of American history,” Wynegar said, “but to learn more about myself in the process.” The event is open to all San Jac students. Participants can compete individually or on a team.
Page 4
Coffee: helps or hurts?
Giovann Rosales Department Editor
Anyone walking into a classroom, whether it is morning or evening, will usually see beverages sitting on desktops. Among the most common is coffee. Many students drink coffee to help them stay awake. However, drinking too much coffee to keep from dozing off in class can be harmful and contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle. According to Mark Hyman, a practicing physician and blogger on www.huffingtonpost.com, coffee is very harmful. “It is addictive. It requires you to drink more and more to get the same ‘high’ and eventually is needed just to feel ‘normal’. Headaches, exhaustion and other biological signs of withdrawal put it clearly in the camp of addictive drugs… It stimulates the release of dopamine, which helps us focus, pay attention and remember. But it depletes those neurotransmitters over time and loses its effectiveness,” Hyman said. San Jacinto College student Victoria Tovar attends classes at night because she works during the day. She said she knows coffee is not the healthy way to go, but it helps her muster energy for her three hour class. “I usually stop by McDonald’s and buy a cup of coffee. I know that once I put the creamer and sugar in my coffee it becomes unhealthy, but it really, really helps me stay awake during my three hour course. I work all day, and by the time I get off of work, I’m drained. Coffee gives me energy for just the right amount of time. I guess I could find a healthier alternative,” Tovar said.
Bill Hogan/Chicago Tribune/MCT
Experts warn favorite pick-me-up is ‘addictive.’
There are healthier alternatives that will provide students the boost of energy they need to stay awake during class. One is to reduce the consumption of coffee. Coffee becomes harmful when it contributes to elevated levels of caffeine intake. According to Dr. Michael J. Brues, a clinical psychologists and blogger on www.huffingtonpost.com, the recommended amount of coffee is no more than 24oz. a day. “Don’t kid yourself about how much coffee you’re really drinking. Some coffee places sell 16, 20, 24, or even 28-ounce ‘cups’ of coffee. With one of these beverages, you can meet or exceed the recommended maximum daily amounts of caffeine. The National Sleep Foundation recommends no more than three 8ounce cups of coffee per day,” Breus said. Tovar said she did not know her coffee intake was well above the recommended amount. “I drink about two 16 ounces of coffee a day. That’s twice as much as the recommended amount. So it sounds like I just need to reduce the amount of
coffee I consume,” Tovar said. Another alternative is green tea. If energy is what’s needed, green tea has the answer. According to Ashley Walton’s article ‘Homemade Drinks for a Natural Energy Boost’ published on www.livestrong.com, green tea combined with other ingredients is a natural energy booster. “Green tea gives a natural caffeine boost, but the additions of pomegranate juice and chia seeds both pack antioxidants and nutrients that will also rev the body's engines,” the article states. Green tea has many health benefits. It contains catechins, an antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of strokes, heart failure, cancer and diabetes. It also helps with weight loss and prevents tooth decay. In light of all the potential benefits, San Jac student Brittany Harris said she is a green tea convert. “I turned to drinking green tea,” Harris said, “because I knew it was better than drinking coffee. I only drink green tea in the morning or if I feel like I need a pick-me-up.”
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8 DAYS A WEEK North
Monday, February 17
• BHM Panel: Are the Struggles the same as before?, 12 p.m., N6.108
San Jacinto Times
Techie Geo professor entertains like rock star
Tuesday, February 18 • College Community Day - No Classes Held
Wednesday, February 19 • No Scheduled Activities
Thursday, February 20 • Temple University Transfer Recruiter, 9 a.m., N12 Lobby • Health Science Career Fair, 11 a.m., N17 Lobby • Saakumu Dance Troupe, 11:30 a.m., N12.200 • Webb Society Meeting, 1 p.m., N7.164
Friday, February 21 • 3rd Annual Symposium on GerontologyGeriatrics Awareness and Education, 7:30 a.m., N1.103 • Math & Engineering Club Meeting, 1:30 p.m., N8.201
Saturday, February 22 • 3rd Annual Symposium on GerontologyGeriatrics Awareness and Education, 8 a.m., N1.103
Sunday, February 23
Central
• Financial Aid Sunday, 2 p.m., N6,104
Monday, February 17 • Psychology Club Meeting, 12 p.m., C3.209
Tuesday, February 18 • College Community Day - No Classes Held
Wednesday, February 19 • Saakumu Dance Troupe, 11:30 a.m., Student Center, Lounge A • Student Veterans of America Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Student Center 212 A/B • Psi Beta Bake Sale, 5 p.m., Tech Building
Thursday, February 20 • GSA Meeting, 3 p.m., Raven Cafe’
Friday, February 21 • SGA Meeting, 11:30 a.m., C1.155 • Phi Theta Kappa Meeting, 2 p.m., C1.238
Saturday, February 22 • Gaming Society Meeting, 10 a.m., Student Center
Sunday, February 23
South
• No Scheduled Activities
Monday, February 17 • Tennis Club Meeting, 2:30 p.m., Tennis Courts • Mixed Martial Arts Meeting, 8:30 p.m., Gym
Tuesday, February 18 • College Community Day - No Classes Held
Wednesday, February 19 • Think Fast Event, 10 a.m., Student Center Atrium • Anime Club Meeting, 3 p.m., S12.234 • Writer’s Block Meeting, 3:30 p.m., S9.214
Thursday, February 20 • SGA Meeting, 2:30 p.m., S6.152 • Student Veterans of America Meeting, 2:30 p.m., S8.2066 • 17 and Under Tennis Club Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Tennis Courts
Friday, February 21 • Mixed Martial Arts Meeting, 10 a.m., Gym • Auto Body Club Meeting, 11 a.m., S14.102B • Phi Theta Kappa Meeting, 1 p.m., S8.1010
Saturday, February 22 • No Scheduled Activities
Sunday, February 23 • No Scheduled Activities
Photo Courtesy of John-Franklin Dzuryak
John-Franklin Dzuryak poses on the rocks at Matthiessen State Park in Illinois.
Efren Diosdado Department Editor
“GEOLOGY, it rocks,” reads the promotional poster featuring dinosaurs with lasers attached to their backs. That is just one example of the humor students get from Professor Dzuryak and his lectures. San Jacinto College North Campus Geology Professor JohnFranklin Dzuryak seems to be part of a new wave of professors that teach outside of the box. From his “techie” Apple Keynote lectures, to his Geology memes and “Bill Nye the Science Guy” video clips, his lectures are more rock star than rocks. Dzuryak said his passion for geology surfaced when he was young, and his parents took him West to see Yellowstone National Park. Amazed by geysers like Old Faithful, he began to wonder about them. In high school, he
took a geology class which he also found very interesting. “Geology rocks,” Dzuryak exclaimed when trying to explain why he enjoys the subject matter so much. He said if he wasn’t teaching today, he believes his master's degree in geology would have led him to work in the oil and gas industry. “Or maybe NASA,” Dzuryak added, “NASA seems like an interesting place to work”. Originally, when he was younger he wanted to become a Park Ranger but the fact that it is a part-time job changed his mind. “It seemed like fun interacting with people and working somewhere beautiful,” Dzuryak said. In addition to teaching, Dzuryak is involved with STEM days at San Jac. “It’s a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics program where basically I just get kids excited about science,” he said. “A lot of kids start out really
liking science and eventually they get scared of it. I try to get them to like it again.” Dzuryak enjoys making his lectures interesting by adding entertaining clips. “I think I’m a funny person,” he said.” “We’ve all sat through monotone lectures, so if there’s anything I can do to make it interesting or keep you awake, I do. I don’t want to be boring, I want to have fun too..” He said he enjoys his videos featuring Bill Nye because he feels that it’s a fun way to learn. “It’s like bringing in a celebrity that everyone knows and can relate to,” Dzuryak said. He also enjoys giving lectures on volcanoes. “Biology has frog dissecting, and we have volcanoes,” Dzuryak added. “I also like interacting and using the texting polls to get feedback from the students.” Texting polls are polls he sets up during his lecture and lets his students’ text in what they think the answer is; then they discuss the correct answer in class. Dzuryak’s lectures are set up on Apple Keynotes, and he sets up an answer key on his iPad. “I used to work at an Apple retail store outside of Chicago,” he said, “so I’m pretty tech savvy. I have all the Apple products.” This is Dzuryak’s second semester teaching at San Jac since moving from his hometown in Northern Illinois. He’s still warming up to Houston. “The summer is hotter than I’m used to,” Dzuryak said, “the winters are quite tolerable. The drivers are crazy, the people are friendly, and the BBQ is good.”
Fruitvale Station: tomorrow is never promised Brandon Peña Staff Writer
The shooting death of an unarmed 22-year-old man during the early morning hours of New Year’s Day 2009 by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) police in Oakland, California sparked national outrage. San Jacinto College North Campus Criminal Justice Professor Jermaine Johnson will examine the tragic death of Oscar Grant III through a film, and subsequent discussion on Wednesday, Feb. 26, as part of a series of events paying tribute to Black History Month. According to IMDb.com, the Ryan Coogler film, “Fruitvale Station,” brings to life the hours leading up to Grant’s untimely death as he “crosses paths with friends, enemies, family, and strangers.” North campus Event Coordinator and Black History Month Committee member Charlotte Jackson said the film and discussion are a way to explore certain social injustices. “Too often people end up in bad situations because of the friends they keep, as well as being held down by past mistakes.” Jackson said. “So often, convicted criminals serve their time, pay the
fees and yet society keeps a ’jacket’ on them, which prohibits them from moving on and becoming successful.” Jackson said Johnson was once a police officer in New Orleans and “has a heart bigger than Texas, (aimed) at helping to reach young people and guide them in the right direction to make healthy choices.” “Fruitvale Station” does not just tell the story of a young life taken too soon, but of a father who will not see his daughter grow up. Student Danielle Tran said it is a subject she sadly knows all too well. “That man had a daughter,” Tran said. “She has to grow up with no father, which is very hard ‘cause I had to do the same thing. My dad died when I was two.” Ultimately, Tran said she feels the film’s message, “Tomorrow isn’t promised,” is key and universal. “Anything can happen at any time, no matter what the situation is,” Tran said. “Fruitvale Station,” starring Michael B. Jordan, Melonie Diaz, and Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer, will be shown at noon in the Monument Room of the Student Center at North campus.
Saakumu Dance Troupe comes to San Jacinto College
Robert Harris Staff Writer
The Saakumu Dance Troupe will perform African dances at San Jacinto College North Campus as part of the campus’s tribute to Black History Month. The Troupe hails from Ghana, West Africa and is dedicated to introducing audiences to traditional and contemporary African dance and music. Student Life Coordinator Karyn Jones said this is the Troupe’s first appearance at the College. “The Saakumu Dance Troupe will be an event to see.” Jones said. “Each year in February, the Student Life Committee brings a
variety of events so this event will be a new event this year.” According to SaakumaDanceTroupe.com, the awardwinning ensemble performs across the United States by invitation as part of Black History Month celebrations. They also perform throughout Ghana and across the West African sub-region. North campus Event Coordinator Charlotte Jackson said the creative arts are very important in the context of Black History. “In order to celebrate Black History Month,” Jackson said, “we have to look at the wide variety of history that comes from many areas such as dance, music and
literature. (They) have all played a huge part in shaping the African American culture.” “Erin Lewis, Coordinator of Student Life at North campus, presents options to the committee so that we as a team, can bring a variety of events in February to help our students, employees, and community appreciate the history,” Jackson said. The Saakumu Dance Troupe will perform at North campus Thursday, Feb. 20 in the Monument Room of the Student Center at 11:30 a.m. They will also perform at Central campus Wednesday, Feb. 19 in the Student Center at 11:30 a.m.
Page 5
Around Campus
8 DAYS A WEEK North
Monday, February 24 • No Scheduled Activities
Tuesday, February 25 • No Scheduled Activities
Wednesday, February 26 • Webb Society Bake Sale, 10 a.m., N12 Courtyard • BHM: “Fruitvale Station” Movie and Discussion, 12 p.m., N12.200
Thursday, February 27 • Ladies of Integrity Meeting, 12 p.m., N12.215 • FYE: So You Want a Scholarship?, 3 p.m., N6.108
Friday, February 28 • Food Pantry Distribution, 8 a.m., N12.101 • Math & Engineering Club Meeting, 1:30 p.m., N8.201
Saturday, March 1 • No Scheduled Activities
Sunday, March 2
Central
• No Scheduled Activities
Monday, February 24 • International Festival, 8 a.m., Student Center, Lounge A • Psychology Club Meeting, 12 p.m., C3.209
Tuesday, February 25 • TSEA Student Program, 3 p.m., C20.261/263 • SVA Meeting, 3:15 p.m., Student Center 212 A/B • Thinkfast Trivia Game Show, 11:30 a.m., Raven Cafe’
Wednesday, February 26 • Black History Month Closing Event, 9 a.m., Student Center Ballroom
Thursday, February 27 • San Jac’s Got Talent, 7 p.m., Student Center Ballroom
Friday, February 28 • SGA Meeting, 11:30 a.m., C1.155
Saturday, March 1 • Gaming Society Meeting, 10 a.m., Student Center
Sunday, March 2
South
• No Scheduled Activities
Monday, February 24 • Tennis Club Meeting, 2:30 p.m., Tennis Courts • MMA Meeting, 8:30 p.m., Gym
Tuesday, February 25 • Student Bible Fellowship Meeting, 12 p.m., S6.196 • Anime Club Meeting, 2 p.m., S12.234 • Game Enterprise Guild, 3:30 p.m., S8.1062 • 17 and Under Tennis Club Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Tennis Courts • ProMusica, 4:15 p.m., S15.115
Wednesday, February 26 • Anime Club Meeting, 3 p.m., S12.234 • Coyote Future Teacher’s Club Meeting, 3 p.m., S6.196 • Writer’s Block Meeting, 3:30 p.m., S9.214
Thursday, February 27 • Game Enterprise Guild, 3:30 p.m., S8.1062 • 17 and Under Tennis Club Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Tennis Courts • PTK Induction Ceremony, 6:30 p.m., S11.250
Friday, February 28 • MMA Meeting, 10 a.m., Gym
Saturday, March 1 • No Scheduled Activities
Sunday, March 2 • No Scheduled Activities
San Jacinto Times
February 17, 2014
Page 6
Sports & Fitness
Ravens ready to rock regionals
Jeannie Peng-Armao San Jacinto College Marketing Department
Livingston (front) lights up the court with 9 rebounds and 29 points against Odessa, helping his team achieve regional tournament qualification status.
Keili Harrison
Department Editor
New experiences can make even seasoned coaches nervous! Just like building a new home, a strong foundation must be in place before structuring the rest of an athletic team. In this case, a strong San Jacinto College Basketball tradition served as a solid base while Men’s Head Basketball Coach, Scott Gernander, took on the challenge of rebuilding his team. The 2012-2013 Men’s basketball team consisted of mostly sophomores who transferred from San Jac, leaving Gernander with quite a challenge. In a matter of months, he had to recruit an entirely new team of Ravens. “There is always some uncertainty when rebuilding a team,” Gernander said, “I think coaches feel a little more comfortable having returners. But, I was defi-
nitely optimistic about starting over and thought that some of our transfers we signed would help with the leadership that is usually provided by returners.” Despite trepidations, a brand new team in sharp jerseys took the court Nov. 1 in their season opener at home ending with an impressive Raven win against Lone Star College – Tomball. Furthermore, along with the new players came a fresh face on the coaching staff. Jeffrey Mailhot, a San Jac alumnus, obtained the assistant coaching position alongside Albert Talley who is in his second season with the San Jac basketball team. “He’s a great recruiter,” Gernander said of the newest hire. Prior to signing on at San Jac, Mailhot coached at Midland and Howard Colleges. The Howard College Hawks won a national championship under his leadership. He also had the opportunity
to recruit and coach now Dallas Maverick, Jae Crowder. “Since we (Mailhot and Gernander) played here over ten years ago, we both spoke of the possibility of working together down the line at San Jac, and when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped at it,” Mailhot said. Gernander also said he admires Mailhot’s passion for San Jac Basketball and knowledge of what it takes to be successful. The Ravens are currently 19-4, 9-2 in conference play. Three of their losses are to nationally ranked teams. “I felt that we would take a while to find our chemistry, and we had quite a few early tests in our non-conference schedule that made us better as a team,” Gernander said. And better they are. With just two conference losses, the Ravens are sitting at the top of the Conference, which, if continued, will lead to the regional tournament qualification. Because of a series of injuries and foul outs, last season’s team ended their run with just four court-ready players in the regional semi-finals. Since the home stretch is now in sight, the Ravens must stay at the top of the conference to secure their position at the Regional Tournament. With the player’s talent and an experienced coaching staff in place, Mailhot said the Ravens hope to continue their success in 2014 and “for another 30 years.” “I want to help my team go as far as possible,” Ravens freshman Anthony Livingston said. Six foot eight Livingston leads the team in rebounds and is a top scorer for the men’s team. When asked if nervous about the potential success of an entirely new team, Livingston confidently replied, “Nervous? Not at all.”
Photo Courtesy of Hannah Hoffman
Sports Day encourages student activity
Central campus flag football participants pose for a team photo.
Rachel Smith Staff Writer
May the odds be ever in your favor. San Jacinto College is offering students a free way to get fit while having fun and making new friends. The College’s biannual Sports Day will take place on all three campuses Thursday, Feb. 27 where students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate on a team of any sport regardless of experience. The goal is to promote fitness and friendship with no added pressure; just friendly competition. Sports play begins at 8:00 a.m. and continues with tournaments throughout the day. Past events have drawn as many as 250 students. Campus Recreation (Rec) Staff Assistant Mary Shelley said, “It’s a way to get students involved, let them try something new.” Meanwhile, even seasoned athletes like basketball player Willie Magnum plan to participate in Sports Day. “I will definitely be attending Sports Day for the extra practice,” Magnum said, “and the opportunity to better my performance as a basketball player.” Student Monica Hughes said she did not realize the College offered opportunities for non-athletes to participate in a team sport activities. “I had no clue San Jac had a sports day,” Hughes said. “I thought in order to play a sport, you needed to try out. I’m really excited to go check it out.” Campus Rec offers a variety of sports including volleyball, flag football, soccer and many more to play on a weekly basis with no tryouts needed. Further information can be found at www.sanjac.edu/campus-rec. There is no charge for participation.
NFL season finishes; flag football begins Hannah King Staff Writer
Flag football season, sponsored by the Campus Recreation (Rec) Department at San Jacinto College, is finally here. Central campus Rec Director and Physical Education Instructor, Butch Sutton along with Staff Assistant Mary Shelley oversee Flag Football. “Flag football is a very popular event,” Sutton said, “that has students always asking about it. It has been around the central campus for 34 years.” Similarly, Shelley said she is happy to see the start of a new season. “Pretty much every semester,” Shelley said, “every event that we have is pretty exciting to be a part of
because you never know what kind of student is going to walk through the door, or what kind of day it’s going to be.” Meanwhile, Sutton said in addition to offering fun, flag football serves students in other ways. “You need an outlet from work and study,” Sutton said. ”You’ve got mental stress, emotional stress, and physical stress with school, work, and jobs. This is a great outlet for not only stress but healthy life styles.” Along with flag football, Campus Rec offers activities ranging from volleyball to kickball. The only requirement for participating in any activity is registering on the Campus Rec website sanjac.edu/campus-rec. Games are held every Monday at 3:00 p.m. from now until March 3.
FEATURE
Yoga pants trending on campus
Alexis Davlin Editor-in-chief
Yoga pants seem to be in style! All around San Jacinto College, it looks as they are the hot thing to wear during any season. Is this a trend, or do all these people really take yoga classes? I scoured the Central campus to figure out why students, and even faculty, wear these pants everywhere and all the time. Central campus yoga professor Dr. Patti J. Pierce stressed the fact that it is very important to wear the correct clothing when actually taking a yoga class. “Yoga postures require bending, twisting, reaching, stretching, lengthening, opening in all directions. It is imperative to have complete confidence in your clothing during all this activity,” Pierce said. Likewise, fellow student Jacie Pullig said yoga pants are a must when taking the class. “Yoga pants are great for the class,” Pullig said, “because it allows you to move in all directions without worrying about
pulling your pants up or adjusting your clothes while you’re trying to work out. No one wants to be constantly paranoid about their clothes moving in the wrong direction.” San Jac student LaPortia Hall said she didn’t try yoga pants until recently, but she can now see their value. “I love yoga, but when you have to pull up and move your pants around during the class, it not only slows you down it distracts you. After my first few days in my new yoga pants I could really focus and be more at ease,” Hall said. Fellow yoga student Illian Garcia said yoga pants are almost all she wears – even when she’s not in class. “I have been wearing yoga pants for a while now even before the class. It’s plain and simple. They are comfortable and very mobile no matter what workout you are doing,” Garcia said. Similarly, Pierce agreed they are popular because of the pure comfort. “Many Americans find yoga
pants to be quite comfortable for everyday wear as well….even if they are not participating in yoga,” Pierce said. Student Darian Reddington said she wears yoga pants to school because they are comfortable, but are a step up from pajamas. “I never like getting ready for school, so yoga pants allow me to at least look somewhat cute without trying hard. It also doesn’t hurt that they are super comfy,” Reddington said. Student and yoga pant skeptic Lauren Thomas said she doesn't wear yoga pants, but she won't rule them out either. “I never really thought I should wear them. They are not my style, but I might give them a try because I am one of those people always moving my pants up and down,” Thomas said. So, everyone has their own take on yoga pants, and it’s probably a good idea to wear them if you are actually taking a yoga class. If you happen to look down and you are one of the many wearing yoga pants, you are definitely on trend at San Jac.