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Issue 12 • Friday, April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

INSIDE

JH

TOP RANKED MUSTANGS TAKE ON PORTS

Delta falls 11-2 to minor league team in exhibition game at Banner Island By Robert Juarez deltacollegian@gmail.com

Pillow Talk: Spring season of second chances PAGE 3

LEARNING EXPERIENCE: Top, Infielder Nelson Muniz slides safely into third. Left, Delta Mustangs watch teammates first at bats.

Professors went to Delta, community colleges PAGE 5

PHOTOS BY ZACHARIAH MERCESSPINDLER

Deceased celebrities attain iconic status PAGE 7

UPCOMING ASDC End of the Year Luau April 16, 12:30-1:30 p.m. @ quad Baseball vs. Cosumnes River April 21, 2:30 p.m. Nick Cecchetti Field

FIND US

On April 8, the Delta College Mustangs trekked to Banner Island Ballpark to take on the Stockton Ports for a friendly exhibition game. “It feels good, it’s kind of like a dream come true,” said Mustangs outfielder Nate Easley on playing at a professional ballpark. Infielder Nelson Muniz agreed. “This is what everyone is aiming for, to play at a professional level and for us to have this opportunity is amazing,” he said. The Mustangs took the field with a 27-0 record. The team is currently top in the country, but on Wednesday the team was humbled. The Ports offense had success early and often putting a three spot on the board in the first inning. The minor league team would go on to win 11-2 in seven innings. “They have to go to class everyday, we get to wake up and play baseball, and we’re getting paid to do it, even though the score was a little lopsided, they were still battling and their pitchers looked good,” said by Ports first baseman John Nogowski. Outfielder Ryan Smith was a bright spot for the Mustangs going 3/3 with a double and two RBI’s. “It felt good, I was seeing the ball real good tonight, I found a lot of fastballs so I jumped on them early,” said Smith.

Delta, Pacific police unite Open campus causes concern By Robert Juarez deltacollegian@gmail.com

Delta College Police Department was quick to help friends in need after the University of Pacific lost Sergeant Aaron Bouscal to a year-long fight with Leukemia. Bouscal passed away on March 12 at the age of 35. A memorial service for him was held on March 29. To lend a helping hand, Delta Police provided two officers to patrol the campus while members of the department attended Bouscal’s memorial. “It's like a family member that calls you, and asks can you help me because so and so passes away, you’d be there to comfort them,” said Sgt. Bob DiPiero of Delta police,. DiPiero was one of three Delta police officers who attended the memorial service and described a close relationship between the two campus

police departments, which are located less than a mile down Pacific Avenue from one another. “They had a loss [and] they needed help, it was not even a question. It was a ‘we’re doing it, here we come.’ I know darn well that if we lost someone on our end, we would have the same support,” said DiPiero. Although Bouscal lived a short life, it was an honorable and courageous life as he served four years in the army and fought in Iraq where he was awarded a Good Conduct medal. In 2005, he became an officer for the Stockton Police Department before transferring to the University of Pacific Department of Public Safety in 2006. He became a sergeant in 2013. He is survived by his wife Corrina, mother, and two brothers.

By Vorani Khoonsrivong deltacollegian@gmail.com

With recent construction making Delta College a more open campus, there are concerns about security and safety. “Delta College has always been a relatively closed campus. Gates have secured the perimeter for decades,” said Delta Police Officer Jim Bock. The removal of the Locke gate, along with the completion of the Science & Mathematics building and its tentative integration of the adjacent plaza are areas that have Delta police and faculty questioning safety. “The general concern is that more crime will occur if the buildings and quad are not able to be secured,” said Bock. Despite concerns from police, there hasn’t been any significant increase of reported

suspicious activity in open areas. “The Science and Math Building has only generated one report of a suspicious circumstance since January 1, 2015,” said Bock. Student Diana Lon hasn’t noticed suspicious activity with the recent additions and said an open campus will benefit students and faculty. “We need more [areas] to sit in. It’s always crowded,” said Diana Lon. Student Kahlil Pearson agreed, but also believes an open campus will attract potential students to Delta. “We might get weird people but at the same time, we might get more people [to attend classes],” said Pearson. Safety is the number one concern for students, faculty,

See OPEN, Page 8

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opinion

Issue 12 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

THE COLLEGIAN SPRING 2015 PRODUCTION STAFF EDITOR IN CHIEF Jermaine Davis NEWS EDITORS Alexis Bustamante Vorani Khoonsrivong OPINION EDITOR Richard Reyes ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Zachariah Merces-Spindler SPORTS EDITOR Robert Juarez PHOTOS COURTESY OF AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF THE RECORD

BUILDING TRADITION: Left, Stockton Arena under construction. Right, the original painting of the ice for the hockey team.

THUNDEROUS GOODBYE: A DECADE OF MEMORIES By Richard Reyes deltacollegian@gmail.com

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n April 11, Stockton will say goodbye to a franchise that has given fans a fantastic time for 10 years. In January, the Stockton Thunder was sold to the National Hockey League’s Calgary Flames in a move that sends the team to Glen Falls, New York. Calgary’s American Hockey League team (AHL), the Adirondack Flames, will move here and become the Stockton Heat. With the move approaching, the question is, does anyone really care? Some central valley residents have questioned the move to bring hockey to Stockton since day one. Some believe instead of bringing out-of-country talent, why not keep it all american? Yet, some who have voiced those comments and questions are sometimes the same people who take free tickets to a game, or go with friends because there is “nothing to do in Stockton.” I will not lie, I was one of those people that who asked: “Why hockey?” I was a fan, but not a follower. I played the usual hockey games on the Nintendo and Sega, but I turned off most of the rules. I didn’t know that the hockey world was going to awaken my closed mind. The first Thunder game I went to was in January 2010. It was a “Teddy Bear Toss” game. A friend had tickets. The game ended in a 0-0 tie and went into a shoot-out. After a couple of shoot-out rounds, the Thunder fell 1-0 to the Victoria Salmon Kings. I still have the ticket to that game. Not impressed, I didn’t go back until 2013. Another friend invited me to games. I went because, there was nothing else to do in Stockton. This isn’t about me or my connections with the team, staff and fans. This is about a team who brought a city together. That helped start relationships that blossomed into fami-

lies and future engagements. That had Stockton three games away from being a professional sports team championship city. But so many people don’t know how it even began. Let’s take a trip down Memory Lane, shall we? It started when Michael Reinsdorf purchased the team and relocated them from New Jersey, to its present home at Stockton Arena, which was then under construction. In February 2005, tickets were put on sale for the inaugural season. Sixhundred fans lined up early. On May 11, the team introduced the first head coach in franchise history, Chris Cichocki. Two weeks later, the franchise was finally given a name after a contest where an 11-year old tracy girl submitted the winning name. On Oct. 22, 2005, Stockton made history at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, as Stockton’s hockey teamed played its first game. Even though it was a crushing 4-3 defeat to the Fresno Falcons, the team showed early promise. The Thunder’s first win as a franchise was on Nov. 5, 2005, against the San Diego Gulls in a 4-3 overtime victory. Stephan Slonina engraved his name in the record books by scoring the gamewinning goal. On Dec. 10, the team opened up Stockton Arena’s doors for the first time. In front of 10,117 screaming fans, the Thunder blanked the Phoenix RoadRunners 4-0. The team missed the playoffs the first year, but did win the attendance title for the first time by defeating five-time consecutive champions, the Florida Everblades with a final tally of 228,364 fans in 36 home games. The team made its first trip to the playoffs, falling in the first round to eventual Kelly Cup champions the Idaho Steelhead in six games. Though they did not win in the playoffs, the team did repeat as attendance champions.

Prior to the 2008-09 season, Stockton Arena was awarded the ECHL’s All-Star game. The Thunder qualified for the playoffs, but fell in a seven game series to the Las Vegas Wranglers. During this time broadcaster Mike Benton planted himself as the voice of the Thunder. The Thunder finally got a first playoff win the following season by knocking out rival Ontario Reign. In 2013 the team finally captured the franchise first ever Western Conference Championship in five games over the Idaho Steelheads. Benton considers game five to be the most exciting game has broadcasted for the team. “This town had yet to experience the championship stage and going out to the rink that night, I couldn’t get it out of my head how spectacular it would be to see 5-6,000 fans go stupid crazy by seeing their team clinch a berth in the Kelly Cup finals,” he said in a Facebook interview. There’s a lot of history here. And I’m now part of it. For the past two years, I’ve been a media intern for the Stockton Thunder. Rather than just seeing the Thunder as “something to do” on a bored day in town, I see it as a family. Any time I’m at the arena I see family members, as opposed to just fans. I’ve built close relationships with entire arena sections. I have edited a video for a friend proposing to his future wife during the Valentine’s Day game. This team is a part of me as much as it is Stockton. There’s not one time in the past ten years, that fans have entered Stockton Arena, and for three hours, whether they cheered for the home or visiting team, took a picture with the team mascot “Thor,” or met a friendly face, when they didn’t enjoy the experience. We’ve been Thunderstruck, my friends. And while a team may remain, the Thunder is moving on, leaving us with a decade of amazing memories.

FEATURE/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITORS Megan Maxey Midori Morita SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Orlando Jose SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Eric Carranza Sean Mendoza Santana Juache Brian Ratto STAFF WRITERS Frank Allen David Arnold Katherine Grey Armel Henderson

Kayla Hernandez Daisy Lopez Kellen Medina Kristen Riedel

ADVISER Tara Cuslidge-Staiano ADVERTISING The Collegian offers display advertising at competitive rates. Contact us at (209) 954-5156 or deltacollegian@gmail.com. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters raising issues and opinions are encouraged, but shouldn’t be taken as a reflection of the opinions of the staff. EDITORIAL Unsigned editorials reflect the position of the entire Collegian staff. Comments, letters and editorials with a byline represent the opinion of the writer. This paper doesn’t endorse or represent the opinions of the adviser, the Mass Communication department, the Fine Arts Division, the printer or Delta College administration. MISSION STATEMENT The Collegian is a student run First Amendment newspaper that prides itself on a commitment to the students of San Joaquin Delta College while maintaining independence. We reinvigorate the credo that the newspaper speaks for the students, checks abuses of power and stands vigilant in the protection of democracy and free speech.

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opinion

Issue 12 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

America still battling gun control problem By Kellen Medina deltacollegian@gmail.com

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n March 17, seven people were shot in the 700 block of North Madison Street in Stockton. The gunmen fired off more than 80 rounds from a passing vehicle, according to media reports. The drive-by shooting left three of the seven victims dead. “It freaks me out, I don’t want to be one of the random people who gets shot,” Delta College student Cassie Grismore said when asked about the shooting. America has a long history with guns, but with recent gun-related headlines, the control of firearms is an issue that needs to be addressed. Are the current gun laws enough? Are they effective? California is known for having some of the strictest gun laws in the country. To legally purchase a firearm a person must 18-years old, or 21-years old for handguns, mentally stable and never convicted of any felonies to submit an application. Then a purchaser must wait 10 days before the gun is released. However, there’s still a problem with gun violence in this society. People are still killing and dying. Gun control advocates argue more needs to be done. We should have more restrictions and regulations. Gun rights advocates argue more restrictions and regulations do nothing solve the problem. Criminals will still find a way to get their hands on guns. Perhaps both sides can be right. We obviously need to do something to fix this problem, but no matter what we do, bad people will still do bad things. Our focus needs to shift from the gun to the gunman. Nowadays it’s not just criminals who are unnecessary shooting people, cops are as well. On Aug. 9, 2014, Officer Darren Wilson fired 12 shots at Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Brown was hit by six of those bullets and died at the scene. Early morning on Jan. 1, 2009, Officer Johannes Mehserle shot Oscar Grant III in Oakland. Grant was laying face down and handcuffed when Mehserle fired the fatal shot into his back.

PILLOW TALK 101 With Jermaine Davis

Sometimes goodbye is a second chance PHOTO BY KELLEN MEDINA

In both situations officers fired at and killed unarmed civilians. We need to find a way to reach out those individuals pulling the trigger and taking innocent lives. These individuals must be taught how to solve problems without violence. Because many confrontations are caused by misunderstandings, communication tactics can help calm the situation before it gets out of hand. Being able to express your side of the argument can facilitate a nonviolent ending. It’s also important to try and understand the other person’s point of view. A better understanding can help you keep control of the situation, preventing it from escalating. We have to teach people to value and respect life, and promote a sense of community. The Second Amendment states: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Our founding fathers knew how essential the gun was in the creation of our nation, and believed that it was just as important for our future. Unfortunately, that future becomes a lot shorter when bullets are flying through the air.

People make videos instead of helping those in need By Eric Carranza

deltacollegian@gmail.com

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orldStarHipHop is a website for the entertainment side of news. For the most part it’s about what celebrities are up to now good or bad. The site also has a bad reputation. The bad rep stems from the site allowing distribution of fights to be posted on its site by users. But let’s not act like it’s just WorldStar that does this. Let’s not forget the pioneer of this. That’s the everyday site called YouTube. Before WorldStar and all other viral video sites, it’s where most people would go to find a video everyone is talking about. For most YouTube is still the site to go to find video’s that are even WorldStar created. So where is the line drawn when you stumble across a video that seems flat-out not acceptable? For starters people can think twice about what they are about to post and how that can affect someone’s life. It’s just like when people say think twice before you

send that tweet. Because just like a tweet: once it’s up it’s more likely going to stay up, even if you delete it there are those who get a copy and that will forever exist. This is a different time. It’s the technology era. So why is it that there are those that get the joy out of recording people fighting or doing a crime instead of doing something that will be impactful and helpful. Everyone has to draw their own line somewhere, for me it’s bullying. As I did my research on this topic I stumbled across a video called the Bully Experiment where this guy wants to see what people would do if he was to pretend to be a bully. Sadly in the video there’s a particular scene where there’s a student right in front of the bullying and instead of doing anything helpful he pulls out his phone and starts to recording. These types of videos are all over the web. So ask yourself the next time you record anything that is not helpful to someone and only harmful or disturbing: Is the 15 minutes of fame worth it?

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t this stage in life we’ve all had bad experiences with people we care about that has led to us severing ties and going separate ways. People choose to cut ties with friendships and relationships all the time, and when you think back on it it’s mostly over something petty such as an argument, disagreement, hearsay or an assumption. Some people in this world are stern, and won’t entertain the thought of giving anyone a second chance to make a first impression. The real dilemma when it comes to cutting someone off, is determining whether or not that person deserves another chance. But first you may want to weigh out the positives and negatives of the reconciliation. Does bringing this person back into your life benefit you at all, or will your decision come back to haunt you. There are some things that are impossible for people to overlook. For example, getting caught cheating is hard for people to forgive and allow someone a second chance at losing trust along with breaking their heart. On the flipside, if you distance yourself from someone because of a rumor you’ve heard, you might be willing to give them a second chance once you hear their side. . The people we have in our lives are there for a good reason. Not everyone is going to make the cut, so go with your gut. If you’re unsure about the possibility of someone changing their ways, don’t put yourself through the drama of dealing with them. Life’s too short to keep wishy-washy people around you. Friendships seem to be more repairable than relationships. A friendship that has been developed over years can mean more to someone than a brief relationship gone askew. The percentage of relationships on their second chance can’t have a high success rate, due to just about every couple that I know of that’s tried to rekindle the flame failed miserably. The fact of the matter is, not everyone deserves a second chance to be in your life after screwing up multiple times. Anyone that’s currently in your life needs to appreciate the position they’re in and respect you. If not, their parking space in your life should be immediately revoked and never reissued.

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feature

Issue 12 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

Collegian seeking sources The Collegian is seeking students to participate as sources in a story about being caregivers to older parents and relatives. We’re looking for people who are caregivers or have gone through a process preparing for an elder family member’s future. Contact the staff at deltacollegian@gmail.com.

Locals give back to community

#TRENDING: Humans of New York

Residents in Stockton are stepping up, others taking notice By Sean Mendoza deltacollegian@gmail.com

Stockton has been labeled one of the most dangerous cities in America due to its high crime rates. From gang violence to theft crimes Stockton has seen it all. But with all the unfortunate things happening, there have been some individuals that shine a light to the city with continuous involvement with the community. Former Delta college student Justin Thongtirak and resident Matt Beckwith have been a couple of Stockton residents that have helped the community. Thongtirak was a volunteer coach for Marshall elementary school’s basketball team from 2010-2012. He attended Marshall as a youth. “I went to school at Marshall back in the day and the head coach asked me if I wanted to volunteer and coach the 5th and 6th grade basketball team in 2010, so I gladly accepted because of my love for the sport and helping kids out,” Thongtirak said. He said he volunteers because he loves to give back. “Helping the kids, teaching them a game they can learn to live, love and to influence into their lives is a big reward in itself, and there’s no money needed for that,” he said. Thongtirak attended Delta College in 2012, then grad-

uated in 2014 with a degree in law enforcement. Beckwith is a board member for the San Joaquin Bicycle Coalition and is also involved in the organizing committee for the upcoming Stockton Earth Day festival. Beckwith is an individual who keeps himself busy with the city, and his position as a member of the board for the San Joaquin Bicycle Coalition has given him opportunities. “The Bicycle Coalition has given me a chance to support cycling events and advocacy throughout the county,” said Beckwith. Beckwith and his family also volunteers to help out with the California Rays. The California Rays are a local beep baseball team for visually impaired adults to play baseball. Beckwith also started Podcast Stockton six years ago. “It’s a podcast all about the positives in Stockton, we are currently working on our 100th episode,” said Beckwith. With all the crimes occurring in Stockton, there truly are hidden gems in the city, Thongtirak and Beckwith hope that there’ll more people that will get involved in the community to make a change.

By Midori Morita and Megan Maxey deltacollegian@gmail.com

This Facebook page has taken off in the past year. Starting in November of 2010, Brandon Stanton left his job in France and began photographing people around New York City. Today, the Facebook page has more than 12 million “likes” and has attracted global attention. In 2013, Stanton even published a 400page book comprised of the pictures and stories he’s collected. Recently, Stanton was able to raise $1.4 million through his page to help Mott Hall Bridges Academy with field trips and school supplies. Stanton’s only intention was to take pictures, but along the way he started getting personal stories and has now collected nearly 5,000 pictures and quotes. His efforts have everyone from all across the globe talking about humanity.

Students reflect on grades so far after midterms end on campus By Frank Allen

deltacollegian@gmail.com

Midterm season is done for Delta College students. In the week following Spring Break, students are starting to get back midterms to see how well they did. Midterms usually count for half of a student’s grade. This is a good enough reason to badger teachers on how well you did. Students announced what happened when they got back their grades, and how they felt on how well they

did, on their midterms. Anthony Maning did very well on his midterms. He got Bs or higher when given back his midterms. “I did well on my midterms, but I could’ve done better, but it is what it is,” he said. On the other hand, some students will kill for those grades. Randy Ua hasn’t received his midterms back yet. However, he feels really confident on how he did. “My psychology midterm is the only midterm I

had for all my classes. And I believe I did very well. I mean, a midterm is only a test on what you have been studying for the whole semester right?” he said. Aaron Kumar, who previously announced he doesn’t study for midterms, said that he passed all of his. Most aren’t as lucky as Kumar. Students wish they could pass without studying. Now that midterms are done students are starting to relax, or rather, already preparing for finals come up.

BRINGING THE PARTY BACK: New Asparagus Festival to debut at fairgrounds By David Arnold

deltacollegian@gmail.com

The Stockton Asparagus Festival was created in 1986 to promote asparagus. The festival offered local merchants and food vendors a place to sell goods, with a chunk of money going toward local charities. The annual event drew crowds of more than 80,000 people in its run. The original home of the festival was at the Oak Grove Regional Park in North Stockton. The festival relocated to the Weber Point area in 2003. In 2014 the festival was cancelled due to Stockton’s bankruptcy, but thanks to private promoter, the Noceti Group, the party lives on. The Noceti Group is responsible for resurrecting and expanding the Stockton 99 Speedway and announced involvement in keeping the festival last year.

This year, the event will be held at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, April 17-19, 2015. “The reason for the move to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds [is] it had all the amenities that the Asparagus Festival was looking for including parking, on-site kitchen and plenty of places to sit and eat,” said Heather Parejko, advisor committee for the festival. There will be plenty of activities at this year’s festival including a family friendly carnival, craft fair, asparagus parade and a health wellness fair. Local radio station KWIN will have a pass the microphone event for those wanting a chance to work at their station. Other entertainment will include a hypnotist, local singers, bands and tribute bands. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for college students, seniors and military personnel (with valid identification). Children under 5 are free.

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Issue 10 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

PROFESSORS TAKE ROAD LESS TRAVELED By Megan Maxey deltacollegian@gmail.com

The path to success can have a variety of twists and turns. As community college students, we have all taken a non-traditional approach to education. The cliché of a college experience would be something involving moving out right after high school, living in a dorm, and attending extravagant as well as outrageous social events most weekends. What we live every day at Delta is far from any typical college experience. But this is not a bad thing. Attending a community college can provide benefits and often leads to success. Like all of us, many of the professors on Delta’s campus attended junior colleges at the beginnings of their academic journeys. “One huge benefit was the money I save by attending a community college. I figured out that I saved over $26,000 by attending community college first instead of going straight to a University of California school,” said Professor Beck Plaza. Monetary savings is an obvious benefit, but it does not stand alone. “At a community college, you can easily develop relationships with your professors and class-

mates. It’s much more challenging to get to know your professors at four-year universities,” said Professor Tamir Sukkary who attended American River College before finishing his education and then becoming a professor of political science at Delta College. Junior colleges, especially Delta, are intended to ensure student success. Taking the same course with smaller class sizes for less money is a step towards a bright future. It is important to know that student success greatly depends on how the student applies him or herself. Community college offers many opportunities, but it is ultimately up to student to utilize those opportunities. “Budget your time with care. Fill in a weekly calendar of classes, work, study time, family, etc… Try to communicate often and cordially with your instructors; we are so glad to help you succeed!” advises Dr. June Gilliam, who currently instructs at Delta and attended Sacramento City College. Considering the number of professors instructing at Delta who have attended Delta or another community college, it is obvious that community college can be a viable step towards success.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MIDORI MORITA AND MEGAN MAXEY

Delta College opens doors for students, professors alike

By Midori Morita

deltacollegian@gmail.com

We all know professors who help us on our path to higher education, but what about the path some of these professors have taken?

Many of Delta’s instructors walked this campus and got

What made you want to come back and teach here at Delta? Cabrera: “One of my professional goals is to be a culinary instructor and when I was asked to apply for the position, I thought that it is the perfect opportunity to do so. Delta has also been a part of my life since I migrated here in the U.S. I’ve been a student, a Teacher’s Assistant and now an Instructor.” Bagnasco: “I love the Delta College campus, students, teachers and staff. I had such an awesome experience when I was there and couldn’t wait to get back and help students at the college where my college career started.” Wardell: “I was asked to help out after a full time accounting teacher was injured and was not able to complete the semester in 1998. I had been a CPA in Stockton since shortly after graduating from Fullerton and knew that if I ever had the chance I wanted to teach at Delta and give back a little of the opportunity that was given to me as a student at Delta.” Hislop: “Delta was the best institution I experienced with quality instructors and I wanted to be a part of that after starting as an adjunct at MJC.”

their education the same way students here do today.

Four educators shared stories via email interview to show students that you can do what you love, no matter where you start. Chris Wardell currently teaches accounting and graduated from Delta in 1971, he has been teaching here for 16 years.

Dr. Stacey Bagnasco is currently a counselor and

Do you have a fond (or not so fond) memory from Delta? A funny or prominent experience that has stuck with you? Cabrera: “The most memorable ones would be the extra curricular activities (scholarship dinner, fundraising dinners, competitions) that gave me a glimpse of what it is like in the real world. It gave me an opportunity not only to hone my skills but to network with industry professionals. This is a practice that I incorporate in the classes that I teach.” Bagnasco: “The UC was much harder than the community college. The CSU was much easier than Delta. UOP was the same as Delta based on my experience and my majors. The social experience was so much richer than any of the colleges I attended at Cal.” Wardell: “The freedom from expectations and the opportunity to start over with students my age allowed me to take classes I wanted to take and explore ideas I was interested in. Earning my AA was a validation of my ability to succeed as a student and a proud moment for me and my family.” Hislop: “I was a student athlete and a member of a championship water polo team in [1968] under the legendary Bill Antillia.”

teaches guidance courses. She graduated in 1992. Kevin Gergaedt E. Cabrera teaches commercial food preparations and safety and sanitation. He graduated in 2007 and has been teaching for five years. Jeffery Hislop is the lead administration of justice professor and graduated in 1970. He has been teaching for 33 years.

Many of the newest students are here with “Passport to College” and could not go to their four years because this program was free, do you have any advice that could help get them through the next couple semesters? Cabrera: “My best advice is to get the most out of your education. Do not be afraid to ask for volunteer opportunities and be aggressive and make sure that your education is preparing you to be a valuable candidate in the job market today.” Bagnasco: “Get super involved! There are so many fun activities to do at Delta College. It is such a great way to meet new people, realize your major and develop new skills. I know that a lot of students have to work and I worked part time, too, but try to get involved.” Wardell: “They need to recognize that they have the opportunity to explore all kinds of options. Student activities and clubs, academic interests and possible career options are all available to be examined.” Hislop: “Hang in there and complete your AA.”

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entertainment

Issue 12 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

A fast end to a furious star

By Daisy Lopez

deltacollegian@gmail.com

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PHOTO COURTESY EPK.TV

PAUL WALKER

he seventh movie of the Fast and Furious series, “Furious 7,” hit theaters April 3. Fans have experienced mixed emotions as this will be Paul Walker’s, the face of the fast franchise, last film after his sudden passing in 2013. As a fan, it hurts to know Walker isn’t with us anymore. It’s similar to the deaths of Heath Ledger or Selena. All three suffered a different cause of death, and all had films released after they passed away. Heath Ledger was remarkable as the Joker in “The Dark Knight”. “The Dark Knight” was released a few months after he passed away. The way Ledger transformed himself to become the Joker entranced millions. It is a film he will forever be remembered in which he won a Golden

Globe and Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2009. Jennifer Lopez played the singer in the biopic “Selena” based on Selena’s life and her journey to becoming a Tejano singer leading up to her tragic death, and it was a major hit. The movie made Selena well known in the United States. “Furious 7” made $143.6 million its opening weekend, according to Yahoo News. It became the highest grossing film in the Fast and the Furious franchise. These stars had a fan base before their deaths. It poses the questions: why does huge artistic success follow a celebrities death, and why the deaths have such an impact on art. One of the reasons is that a lot of fans see this as a way to say goodbye and show support. “Paul Walker’s character grew on me

because he was such a great actor. Not only in the Fast and Furious movies but all the movies I've seen him in,” said moviegoer Vincent Lopez, who saw “Furious 7” in Manteca this weekend. Celebrity deaths somehow attract people to want to watch or hear the dead star’s work more. “After watching this one I [want to] go back and watch them all. It had my heart pounding throughout the whole movie. It was so action packed. The tribute to Paul was touching and made me cry,” said moviegoer Angie Gomez, who had never watched a single Fast and Furious movie before seeing “Furious 7.”

ILLUSTRATION BY MIDORI MORITA

30-year jinx lifted after HBO documentary series links crack By Kellen Medina deltacollegian@gmail.com

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recent HBO mini series called, The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst, has discovered new evidence in the 2000 murder case of Susan Berman. The new evidence has led to the arrest of Durst, and charged for the crime. The visually striking series uses a variety of footage to dig deep into the life of Durst, as well as the three deaths he has been linked to. This is a rare occasion where a TV show has had immediate effect on the outside world. It all started with the 1982 disappearance of Kathie Durst, Robert’s wife. Conflicting statements and marital problems led to the husband becoming a prime suspect. However, he was never charged with her murder. Eighteen years later on Christmas Eve in 2000, Robert Durst’s longtime friend Berman was found murdered in her Los Angeles home. Durst became a suspect after it was revealed New York State Police were planning on questioning her about the 1982 disappearance of his wife. A year later Durst was arrested and charged with the

murder and dismemberment of his neighbor, Morris Black. He was acquitted, claiming the murder was selfdefense. The evidence that led to Durst’s recent arrest was a letter he had written Berman. The letter shared similar handwriting and spelling to one police received informing them of Berman’s murder. The evidence was uncovered in the fifth episode of “The Jinx,” which aired March 8. Durst was arrested March 14, a day before the sixth and final episode aired on HBO. In the final episode, Director Andrew Jarecki confronts Durst about the letter. Durst denies writing the letter, but admits to the similarities. Shortly after, Jarecki ends the interview. Durst then goes to the restroom with his microphone still on. While in the restroom he was recorded saying:

“What the hell did I do? Killed them all, of course.” People have since questioned Jarecki about the timeline. Most concerns are about when he shared his information with police and whether or not his decision was a ploy to get higher ratings. Jarecki insisted he gave the police the information months before the airing of the show. He maintains he has been fully cooperative with investigators, and by the end of the series his only goal was to get justice. Durst was in possession of a .38 revolver and five ounces of marijuana during his recent arrest. He is currently being detained in Louisiana for gun and drug charges. Now that he is 71 and has health issues, it seems time is running out for the alleged murderer. If convicted, these charges alone can lead to him spending the rest of his life behind bars. In California, prosecutors eagerly await the chance to convict him with the murder charges of Berman. In a recent interview, Jarecki was asked if at any point he felt Durst was innocent. “It was just that we didn’t know that he was guilty. The truth is, our opinion now is that he’s guilty,” he said.

Internet’s social culture beginning its traditions in language By Megan Maxey deltacollegian@gmail.com

H

ave you ever heard of “Alex from Target”? What comes to your mind when someone says “Much Doge”? How about the dress that seems to have no definitive color? Most people know what all of the above are and if you don’t, there’s no need to worry because all the answers you need are only a few clicks away. Every group of people has their own culture. From America to West Africa to Tokyo, all people value customs and traditions.

So, considering how many people spend their time online, it’d be safe to assume an online culture would form. In the past five years, an online culture has definitely emerged. Most people participate in social media websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr purely for convenience. “[Social media] is a very convenient way to communicate with people and organize events,” said college sophomore Natalie Potthoff. Others take to the Internet for solace. So many people have made careers for themselves, found life-long friends and

even discovered a culture they fit into all online. Social media websites have created a protocol and a common culture for those who regularly partake in it. It’s almost as if all of these people who are geographically separated have an infinite amount of inside jokes. Things that would normally be noticed by a small group of people now can become a worldwide phenomenon. Incidents like a fashionable monkey found wandering around in an IKEA store one day wearing a fur coat reached millions of people over Tumblr and Twitter. Other events have happened on social

media that had everyone talking. A recent debate disputed between millions online was one involving an oddly colored dress. Friendships were tested over whether a dress was white and gold or blue and black. (It’s white and gold.) The fact that many people saw this dress and argued with their peers about it shows how powerful the culture of social media really is. Social media users have a network of people who all know how to navigate and create throughout the many avenues of the web. Pop culture has a new face and it’s one that can only be accessed with Wi-Fi.

7

sports

Issue 12 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

Before season starts Giants, A’s battle for Bay bragging rights

PHOTO BY MIDORI MORITA

BAY BRIDGE SERIES: Giants shortstop Brandon Crawford winds up to take his hack.

By Midori Morita

deltacollegian@gmail.com

The steaming rivalry between the Oakland A’s and the San Francisco Giants is no secret. But what happens when you put both fans into one stadium? On April 2, the Giants started the annual three-game exhibition series against the A’s, a final tune-up before opening day. While nothing counted towards the standings, the energy in AT&T Park was nothing less than tense as bragging rights were on the line. With hundreds of Oakland fans entering through Giants territory, many fans were on edge. These two teams are right across the Bay from one another, so it’s not uncommon to see Giants fans mingling with A’s fans. The game started out with the batting line-up announcement and throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. The odds were not in the Giants favor that night as the A’s scored three runs within the first

SPORTS UPDATE

three innings. A’s fans chanted and stomped as the team continued to score run after run. Jake Peavy pitched until the top of the fourth where he was then replaced by Steven Okert. Okert was then replaced by Jeremy Affeldt, who went on to pitch a scoreless inning. “Let’s go A’s!” was chanted all over as if Giants fans weren’t even in San Francisco. The game ended 8 – 2 in favor of the A’s. The Oakland A’s had taken down the San Francisco Giants. This loss couldn’t keep the Giants down for long; over the next two games the Giants defeated the A’s and sent them back home to Oakland. The Giants enter the 2015 season with questions everywhere: an aging pitching staff, a less than stellar offense and injuries to key players including Outfielder Hunter Pence and Pitcher Matt Cain. However, the Giants have had questions about the team for each of the past five seasons, and in that time the team has won three World Series titles.

Kentucky falls short of perfect season By Zachariah Merces-Splinder deltacollegian@gmail.com

COACH K WINS AGAIN The infamous March Madness has now come to end. Wisconsin shocked the world by upsetting the undefeated Kentucky Wildcats but responded with a heartbreaking loss to the once again champions, the Duke Bluedevils. OPENING DAY Baseball season is officially underway. Some may have referred to it as Easter Sunday, but we all know it was really Opening Day for Amer-

ica’s pastime. The Chicago Cubs hosted the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field for the first time in 2015 and the first of a total 2,430 games to play until playoffs in the beautiful month of October. MUSTANGS ON A ROLL Delta College’s baseball team still remains undefeated. Currently ranked No. 1 in the nation, hopefully the team doesn’t follow the path Kentucky set. Ace pitcher Cameron Leeper has continued a brilliant season leading the state in strikeouts with 75 and second in wins with nine.

Former Delta basketball star, coach Cozad inducted into Hall of Fame By Vorani Khoonsrivong deltacollegian@gmail.com

Former Delta College basketball player Michelle Cozad was inducted into the California Community College Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame on March 13. Cozad played for the Mustangs from 2001-03 under the direction of Coach Gina Johnson. During her time at Delta, Cozad was a member of championship teams at every level of competition. Her resume of achievements at Delta include Bay Area Conference MVP and advancing the Mustangs to the California State Final Four in 2002. She received the first Team All-State Honors and lead the team to a number four seed for the playoffs in 2003. Cozad currently holds Delta’s single game scoring record of 44 points, season record of 606 points and a career record of 1,328 points. Cozad also holds Delta’s record for the highest free throw percentage in one season at 84.6 percent. Prior to attending Delta College, Cozad graduated from St. Mary’s High School and also played for the school’s basketball team. Cozad transferred to Santa Clara University in 2003 and continued her success at the Division I level. Highlights from Cozad’s time at SCU include a West Coast Tournament MVP award and lead the team to an NCAA Tournament in 2005 and became the 15th member of SCU’s 1,000 Point Club and chosen as the West Coast Conference Player of the Week six times in 2006. Cozad returned to Delta in 2007-08 and was an assistant coach before beginning her career in Social Services as a Program Coordinator for adults with disabilities.

8

news

Issue 12 • April 10, 2015 • deltacollegian.net

PUBLIC WANTS DOORS REOPENED

Voters might decide library reinstatement in 2016 By Santana Juache deltacollegian@gmail.com

Stockton’s Fair Oaks Library, located on E. Main St, closed in 2010 during the city’s bankruptcy crisis. It was to be closed temporarily, but since then, Stockton has been trying to sell the property. Now residents and local literacy groups are fighting to restore the library to its original glory. “We have the money to reopen the Fair Oaks Library. We need our city council and city leaders to make clear where they stand on vital community resources, like our libraries,” said Dr. Mas’ood Cajee, chairperson of local literacy group, Strong Libraries = Strong Communities, in an email interview. With support for the cause rising, Stockton City Manager Kurt Wilson suspended the sale until further notice. According to a recent article from The Record, voters may be

left to make the decision in the June 2016 primary. Cajee, in an opinion piece for The Record, shared more valuable information. He writes by national and state standards, there should be one library branch for every 25, 000 residents. Stockton has a population of more than 300,000, and only has four public libraries. Based on this forumla, the city is short eight libraries. The Fair Oaks Library is located in Stockton’s eastside neighborhood, which consists of a mostly poor and minority population. The closest library for these residents is the Cesar Chavez Library in downtown Stockton. If one doesn’t own a vehicle, accessing other libraries can be difficult. Only one bus route goes out east (Route 83), and a round trip can take up to an hour.

GRAPHIC FROM FREEPIK.COM

Those trying to reopen the library hope with more people reading, more will pursue education, which will make for higher incomes. “I grew up poor, but my mother made sure we went to the library regularly. I learned at a young age to love learning through reading. It’s paid dividends for me in my academic endeavors and I graduated from a top tier university, USC this spring,” said Motecuzoma Patrick Sanchez in an online interview. Sanchez started the local literacy group Stockton Educational Movement in Language Literacy and Scholarships. “Libraries have been an important part of my life since I was a child. Libraries—for me and millions of people—are places of hope, study, reflection, discovery, creativity, quiet, and on and on,” said Cajee.

OPEN: New buildings, plaza alignment make area less secure than before continued from PAGE 1 staff and visitors, according to Bock. “We patrol the campus roadways, parking lots, pathways, buildings and common areas 24 hours a day, 7 days per week,” said Bock. In addition to patrolling, Delta police send personal safety messages through email and social media. They also offer crime alerts through the Emergency Notification System and provide public safety presentations by request. Despite resources, the police stress crime prevention as a community effort. “It's collaboration between the police department and the citizens we serve. While there

will always be crime and always be criminals out there who are looking for opportunity, this partnership will better strengthen the overall safety of every individual and the campus community as a whole,” said Bock. Students and faculty are encouraged to report any suspicious crime activity on campus anonymously through Tipsoft. Other ways one can file a report include using blue light phones scattered throughout the campus pathways. Elevators are equipped with call boxes for emergency purposes. Dial “Emergency” or “5000.” This also applies to any classroom or office phone.

SAFETY GUIDELINES FROM POLICE DEPARTMENT • • • • • • •

ALWAYS walk with a friend ALWAYS look up and keep your head moving UNPLUG your headphones, listen AVOID dimly lit areas AVOID wearing expensive jewelry, carrying large sums of cash SCREAM if you need help CALL POLICE if you are victim or witness a crime

Dreamt is the only word that ends in a-m-t. With 1,025,108 other words in the English language, what are the odds? One in 1,025,109, actually. Learn even more earning a bachelor’s degree at National University. Online. On campus. Non-profit. Don’t think you have time to learn something new? You just did. Stockton Campus 3520 Brookside Road (209) 475-1400

Keep learning at nu.edu/transfer © 2015 National University NU15_2465