The Collegian - Published March 25, 2022 by The Collegian

Hellen Heels kicks off Crystals don’t Women’s History Month deserve hate

The Collegian ENTERTAINMENT, PAGE 6

Issue 8 • Friday, March 25, 2022 •

OPINION, PAGE 3

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UKRAINE INVASION SENDS GAS PRICES SOARING Local gas prices spike to If nearly $6 per gallon it has not already been after Russian attack inconvenient-

ly noticeable, gas prices have soared these past BY ANI GUTIERREZ couple months. Entertainment Editor A main component to this ordeal is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This invasion has been a tragic start to the beginning of 2022 for many people across the globe. With the invasions beginning towards the end of the month of February, many Ukrainian citizens have been dealing with fleeing to safety, finding food, warmth, a place to sleep and, most importantly, staying alive. According to the United Nations tracker, one that continuously updates the number of statistics pertaining to the invasion, as of March 19 over 3.5 million refugees have fled Ukraine to neighboring countries. More than 900 civilians have died. While Ukrainians are facing a dreadful and deadly war with Russian armed forces, it has also caused a bit of an economic backlash on American citizens as well. Since the start of the invasion, gas prices have been fluctuating in the U.S., with the prices reaching an all time high in the country this month. According to data provided from AAA, the updated average price of gas in San Joaquin County as of March 22 is $5.69. Comparing this to the average of around a month ago where it was approximately $4.60 and even cheaper, this has started to hurt the pockets of many. Questions on everyone’s mind, now might be ‘What is causing these prices to rise?’ or ‘How does the rise in gas prices even relate to the Russian invasions of Ukraine?’ It reflects on oil. Crude oil is known to be one of the biggest determiners for gas prices since it is refined to make gasoline. Russia happens to be one of the top three oil producers in the world, providing approximately 10 percent of the global supply of oil, as stated by Clifford Krauss, writer for the New York Times, in the ar-

ticle ‘Russian Oil Not Worth the Trouble, Some Traders Conclude’ published March 1 of this year. The other two top oil producers would be the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. Patrick De Haan, the head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said in a statement that the U.S., as well as the European Union, have put sanctions on Russia since the start of the invasion. Sanctions have created difficulties for Russia's ability to sell crude oil. Since the country is one of the biggest energy suppliers, this has made the oil prices skyrocket. Americans across the country have been facing fluctuating, high fuel prices. For Delta students in particular, commuting to school has become more of a hassle. “As a student whose income is very limited, it's hard,” said student Steven Watan. “I'm on the swim team so pretty much every day I drive to Delta just for practice. I also deliver pizzas and now that gas prices are through the roof I'm now spending fifty-ish dollars for a full tank, where two years ago it cost me around 25-30 bucks.” Although this is deemed as an inconvenience to U.S. citizen’s bank accounts, paying the high price of gas has been less of a concern for some. “It appears to me that the basic American response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine places us on the right side of history,” said Wesley Swanson, history professor at Delta. Swanson said he is more relieved for his family's safety than he is distressed about the rising gas prices. “As Russia is waging an unjustified, vicious war upon a peaceful neighbor and the only cost to us is an inconvenient rise in the cost of fuel and other commodities, I am minimally concerned about these costs. I am simply thankful that my children are not subject to daily bombardment.” Despite a number of citizens struggling with paying soaring fuel prices, some have also decided to do what they can to help with this war. “My personal response has been to donate to the International Rescue Gas prices Committee (formerly the Interat the 76 on national Rescue Committee of March Lane. the Red Cross) because they PHOTO BY are very active in relieving JAHDAI the suffering of the peoSPIKES ple of Ukraine,” said Swanson.

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Graduation returns to Stockton Arena BY ARIANA MALLERY News Editor

Graduation. It’s a joyous occasion where students can finally reap the benefits of all their hard work, sleepless nights studying and thousands of dollars by walking across a stage for ten seconds in front of thousands of people. For many students who worked hard for years, walking across the stage feels like the finish line at the end of a marathon through the desert. “It’s been a long journey,” said student Delainey Bright, who plans to walk at the upcoming commencement ceremony with an associate in communications for transfer. “I’m excited for what the future has in store for me.” The San Joaquin Delta College’s 87th Annual Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2022 is planned to be held at the Stockton Arena on May 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. Expectations for the 2022 commencement are high after the disaster that was the initial 2021 graduation ceremony, which was marred by technical glitches. The event was live streamed on May 15, 2021, but was stopped before it ended when a student’s name kept repeating, ruining other student’s moments. A second name later joined in a chorus, rendering the event unintelligible. Beyond the technical glitches, one student who graduated said she hated the remote nature of the event. “My family wasn’t there and I didn’t feel

See GRADUATION, page 8

Board split on recent mask mandate vote BY JAHDAI SPIKES Editor-in-Chief

Following Governor Newsom’s removal of the mask mandate for most indoor settings on March 1, the statewide mandate was removed from K-12 schools on March 11. Delta College’s mask mandate remains in place following a vote at the March 15 board of trustees meeting. The board tied 3-3, with one abstention, meaning the vote failed to pass. Prior to the vote, Delta’s Covid-19 Task Force presented information on the campus’ vaccination status, as well as data on infections among students and staff. As part of the presentation, the task force requested the board remove the school’s mask mandate. Dr. Lonita Cordova, Delta’s vice president of student services, pointed to challenges with enforcement as a reason for removing the mandate. “Some challenges that we've had on campus is the enforcement of mask wearing indoors is becoming extremely difficult [for] personnel who work at Atherton events and athletic events are having difficulty of holding district mandated protocols,'' said Cordova. Trustee Elizabeth Blanchard made her frustrations with not being back on campus clear. “I think we've had enough excuses. It’s time for us as trustees to work full time, back in-person. Administrators should come, if not 70

See MASKS, page 8

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2 OPINION 032522

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CRYSTALS GOOD FOR OPEN MINDED BY JAHDAI SPIKES

Editor in Chief

rystals are used as an alternative healing method, and they come in countless shapes and sizes. The effects that these crystals possess also vary widely, with some even being said to have healing properties. Amethyst, a very popular crystal, it’s dark, purple and often used to help with anxiety and sleep. But does that glistening purple rock actually have the capacity to act as a sleep aid, or is it just a hunk of rock? The use of crystals, incense or anything else in the realm of spirituality is often looked down upon by those who don’t partake in it themselves. Their opinions aren’t invalid necessarily, it is somewhat hard to believe that a shiny colorful rock could change your life in any way. But these people are missing a key detail — that it doesn’t matter if it truly works or not. The power of crystals is not what it could possibly do, but rather it shows the user has the desire to fix that area in their life. For example, if someone wanted to use crystals to be more focused, they would get a fluorite crystal because it is known to be the best crystal to increase focus. After getting that crystal they have to cleanse it of negative energy and charge it with positive energy, often by meditating with it or just leaving it in the sunlight. This is often the step that causes people to lose interest in crystals, because to those who know nothing about spirituality all this positive and negative energy talk starts to get overwhelming. But only after the user has gone through the steps to make sure the crystal is charged and ready, does it work. Whether or not the process actually did anything within the crystal is of no importance because the user thinks it did. And because the user now believes that this crystal that they keep around their neck will make them more focused, it will. Crystals can be used for every aspect of one’s life, whether it be helping manage symptoms of depression or anxiety, or just in a broader more spiritual sense. Marcus Epps, an employee at the White Willow Wellness Center, a crystal shop in Tracy, said “It’s just kind of like any other belief, people use all different kinds of tools and ways to get to their level of Nirvana.” So placebo or not, crystals have shown time and time again to have a positive effect on those who truly invest time and energy into them just like any other religion or practice.

Crystals on display at White Willow Wellness Center in Tracy. PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITE WILLOW WELLNESS CENTER

The Collegian The Collegian is the student newspaper of San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, Calif. The paper is published six times a semester. As a First Amendment newspaper we pride ourselves on a commitment to the students of 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.

The Collegian is a member of the California Newspaper Publisher’s Association and the Journalism Association of Community Colleges.

EDITORS JAHDAI SPIKES Editor in Chief

ARIANA MALLERY News

JASON DIEZ

STAFF GAVIN CARDOZA GRACIELA GABRIEL CHRISTINA GOODMAN MELLY LEWIS ANNABEL LOCK

MULTIMEDIA TECH MATTHEW WILSON

ADVISER TARA CUSLIDGE-STAIANO

Opinion

ANI GUTIERREZ Entertainment

DAVID VICTOR Sports

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shima 203/204, (209) 954-5156 or deltacollegian@gmail.com For information about advertising, letters to the editor and editorial standards visit deltacollegian.net

3 OPINION 032522

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Students optimistic as state lifts mandate BY ANI GUTIERREZ

Entertainment Editor

he long-running mask mandate has finally been lifted, for the most part, in California. On Feb. 28 the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released a statement in regards to all Californians stating that from March 1 onward, masks are no longer required in most indoor public spaces. Some places where they are still required are in healthcare facilities, public transit instances, airports and emergency shelters. As for a majority of schools, a mask is no longer going to be required in the classroom. Instead, mask use is now a “strong recommendation.” At its March 15 meeting, the Delta College Board of Trustees was split three to three with one member abstaining, when posed with the mask mandate question. The vote upheld the mask mandate on campus for now. There’s no doubt that masks do prevent people from getting sick. According to the CDPH, masks will “help prevent both you and others from getting Covid-19.” I, too, can confidently say this because throughout the majority of the pandemic, I was masked-up everywhere I went. As a result, I never got Covid, even when others around me did. With this testimony standing behind masks, it now leaves one question to mind: Is this the safest time to begin to lift the mandate that we all thought would be never-ending? “I do think right now is a reasonable time to lift the mandate because more people are realizing they need the vaccine and less people are getting sick,” said Delta student, Christian Gonzalez. “It is at a state where it should be optional.” The Covid-19 vaccine plays a huge role in lifting this mandate. With pretty much every public setting now requiring proof of vaccine and now even the booster, this has assured our peace of mind, our safety, and led to the mask mandate no longer being as strict. It has also been attributed to the decline in covid-positive cases as well as hospitalization in individuals across the state. According to data published by the CDPH on Feb. 28, positive cases have declined by 66 percent and hospitalizations have declined by 48 percent since Feb. 14. As an in-person student and a restaurant employee surrounded by people all the time, knowing that a majority of the population has taken the safety measures to get vaccinated against Covid and its variants has brought me peace of mind to the fact that masks are no longer required to be worn. It is like a weight

being lifted off our shoulders (or should I say, lifted off our faces). Gonzalez agreed and is anticipating not having to wear a mask in most public settings anymore. “I am looking forward to not wearing masks since everything is a lot safer and more people have the vaccine so I can assure myself we are all safe,” Gonzalez said. Other Delta students agree, with the vaccine mandate, masks don’t need to be required anymore, but be more of a recommended option. Student Sabrina Ochoa believes masks don’t need to be required in small classes anymore because of this. “Seeing that now everyone needs to be vaccinated to take in-person classes, I really don’t think they are needed for a small class,” said Ochoa. “In college and university, if the class is small I don’t really see the need to continue to wear them. I understand if it’s a big class and there are a lot of people.” There are some instances, however, where students believe that the masks should continue to be worn. When it comes to younger students, Ochoa thinks that they’re less considerate when addressing the mask mandate, therefore getting sick and spreading the virus more so than older students. “I do believe anyone in school under college should keep their masks on in class. I know for the younger generation they are more likely to be exposed at times because they don’t take the mandate seriously,” said Ochoa. Another instance where the mask should be kept on, according to Gonzalez, would be in settings of large groups of people. “In large gatherings it should still be required because it will help reduce breathing in more germs from all those people,” said Gonzalez. Now that masks are a recommendation rather than a requirement in most public spaces, it is still important to take into consideration the people around you. Social distancing is still relevant and should continue to be practiced in public, especially when in a large gathering. It is, however, relieving not having to have a mask glued to our faces everywhere we go anymore. The vaccine adds support to the decision of people choosing not to wear them anymore. Personally, I have no problem hanging around others, with no mask, who are also vaccinated because it provides me with reassurance that they are healthy. However, Covid has still not completely vanished, so we should proceed with caution when attending places with no masks and proceeding through the pandemic.

Daylight savings beneficial to daily activities BY GRACIELA GABRIEL

Staff Writer

s daylight saving beneficial for you? It’s time to reset our clocks as daylight saving time began on March 13. Daylight savings has always started on the second Sunday of March. Some people argue we do not need daylight savings because it can be

exhausting due to lack of sleep from “springing” forward, or it can wreak havoc on day-to-day routines. I take great pleasure in it. Families can finally be more in touch with outdoors nature for longer hours too. For instance, on a lovely weekday or weekend, families can take walks at a park with friends or family members, or go to the beach and watch the

sun go down. It’s easy to feel more energetic after having a long day at work just because the sun is still out. So what can we do to prepare ourselves to be ready to catch sunset views and be sun-kissed longer? The first thing will be to remain positive, try to make a list of what you can accomplish during daylight saving time: go for a run after work, try to have a day-night or something you have been wanting to do outdoors. Another thing you can do to prepare yourself for daylight saving is set your clock first thing in the morning on Saturday or a week before, that way you cannot only mentally, but physically get ready for it. Also, you can indulge in starting healthier habits in your day-on-day routine. For example, eating healthier meals like adding more veggies into your meals as we also approach harvesting season. You can start an exercise plan and it can simply start with a run at the park. On March 15, daylight saving can become permanent year-round at the

beginning of Fall 2023 by Senate approval. However, the bill still needs to be approved by the House of Representatives. Not only has it become beneficial for us to enjoy the longer outdoors but it can also save us some money because it cuts back on consuming energy. I believe we do need daylight saving because it can promote safety and reduce crime. For example, the chances of more people being outdoors during daylight saving are higher because you feel safer when there are more people in an environment. Nonetheless, students should still practice safety by wearing a mask outdoor and keeping 6-feet away from one another. However, I know daylight saving can have its defects for the early birds, as it is still dark outside around 5 and 6 am. So, students who have responsibilities, like needing to go to work or school around that time, should stay precautions while driving or taking walks, as it is still dark outside. I find daylight saving beneficial for me because it makes me feel safer to be outdoors in the evening. For example, I live in Manteca, for that reason when I am in school past noon I know I don’t have to worry about feeling like it is too late to be in Stockton or simply outdoors even though it’s only 7 p.m. I also appreciate daylight saving because I can finally start taking a run outdoors after a long day at work and take a break from the gym treadmill.

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LOOKS TO SLAY BLOOM IN SPRING BY JASON DIEZ Opinion Editor

Spring fling? More like spring bling. As we approach Spring 2022 with a new set of ideas and a new fresh set of goals, navi-

gating the upcoming year with incorporation of viral trends and micro-trends, what’re the in’s and out’s of today’s trends?

SIMPLICITY AT ITS FINEST

With TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and so many more social media channels influencing everyone’s fashion taste; it’s best to stay true to basic foundations. With that said, what does it mean to be simple? It’s possible to interchangeably switch from solid-colored tees to button-ups to crewnecks, pairing it with solid-color trousers and simple slip-on shoes. The purpose of simplicity is to allow minimalism back into one’s life. Keeping the pieces that spark joy, while accentuating one’s style. “I have been wearing more minimal style tops and focusing on all type of accessories such as bags, jewelry, and shoes,” said Olivia Lee, a communication science and disorders major. Simplicity at its finest allows those who aren’t too fixated on fashion trends to tune into timeless outfits that wear a piece that either is bold or compliments an outfit. A perfect example is wearing a white shirt with jeans, then pairing the outfit with white chunky shoes and a canvas tan tote bag.

LIGHT ACADEMIA PREPPY

For those who’re fairly aware of Dark Academia, know the twin sister “Light Academia” that focuses on softer and brighter tones. This style allows individuals to shift the darker color tones onto brighter tones that bounce off the heat. Dark colors attract the heat while light colors repel the heat. This style is perfect for those who love to dress business casual without the necessity of overlaying from bulky blazers and heavy trench coats. A perfect outfit would be white silk pants paired with white-laced socks, covered with black loafers and loose beige blouse or button-up.

CRAZY BRIGHT PATTERNS ARE OUT OF SEASON

During quarantine, Shein produced pieces that showcased vibrant and colorful pieces. While they may have been cute at the time, it’s a sign that fast fashion pieces are an example of dying microtrends. Not only do they provide an inconvenience, but provide an inconvenience to the planet. “I think the ones that might die are like crazy bright patterns you see on Shein mauve the longer shorts too that we saw during quarantine,” said Rose Perez, a Geology major. These exaggerated patterns provide a tacky and yet cheaply made ensemble that’s better left on a costume rack.

Y2K FOREVER N EVER

One fashion trend that will never leave us is Y2K fashion. Fairly popularized by TikTok, it’s a fashion trend that involves a fusion blend of current trends with early Y2K clothes. “Y2K fashion has been coming into trend recently and along with that I believe flare jeans will also become popular,” said Olivia Lee. Although it’s a trend that’s best forgotten, it allows those who truly lived during that era to witness the younger generation appreciating certain pieces such as low-rise jeans and butterfly bedazzled shirts.

DARK COLORS ARE OUT OF SEASON

Spring is usually a sign of colorful and pastelish pieces, however there isn’t any room for moody and dark colors. Not only do they go against the status quota, but they only attract heat. “What’s not fashionable in spring, is dark and moody colors,” said Chinlonge Phou, a transfer student in chemistry. Dark colors would work to only exemplify the outfit if the main focus was brighter tones, however if the overall outfit is simply dark-colored and in the darker shades, it’ll give off the person just rolled out of bed and threw on whatever they could find.

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Cru 130 drag queens save brunch in Turlock BY JASON DIEZ Opinion Editor

Editor’s Note: A word used as slang to describe female genitalia is included in this story. It is part of the name of one of the drag performers covered in this piece. While the Collegian understands the word may offend some, the performer’s name is necessary to include as part of this piece, specifically in how it is part of the performer’s persona and identity. Nails. Hips. Heels. Everything you can imagine that embodied the Drag Brunch performance on March 20. Held at Cru 130 on 130 West Main Street, Turlock. Upon arrival, the sidewalk leading up to the venue had groups of people near the entrance. Cold and mildly windy, seating wasn’t until 11:15 a.m. because identification check-ins, transactions and seating were taking place at the same time. The venue was practically a long hallway, length-wise, that stretched from the stage and directly across the entrance. Several tables were placed amongst the walls to allow movement for the performers to have leverage across the venue. Later, the emcee warmed up the crowd. Gigi Banks, one of the main hostesses from Modesto, opens up the crowd with light witty humor that encourages quiet tables to be more loud and slight teases towards DJ Invisible, the DJ incharge of the entertainer’s music numbers. There was a lot of power play that took into consideration when emceeing a crowd. “I feel like confidence, I always fake it till you make it, that’s one of my motto’s, or confidence whether you gotta fake it. And just go out there and have a great time, while talking clearly. It’s important to command the room, while being the hostess,” said Banks, a Modesto Drag Queen. During Bank’s performance, the energy she exuded was bold and giving formidable tiger mom energy. What her performance stood out was that she gave off charismatic and confident body poses while moving along with the music choices. Although the songs were not any music I have heard of, they certainly complimented Banks’ attitude and stage presence. Next up was Ronnie Punani, a drag queen that’s based from Stockton. During her musical numbers, she executed their performance in a show-stopping way. From a Scooby-doo Velma outfit to an avant-garde stage costume that was embellished with silver diamonds and rainbow vinyl. The way they exuded and carried themselves was similar to celebrities performing at the Super Bowl with a whole-decked out dance choreography. From greeting their audience to doing

twirls and springs, they radiated star energy. After their performance, followed by Heroine, a drag queen who hails from Sacramento but had their career kickstarted in Oakland at first glance, their presence might appear daunting and ghostly; however, after witnessing their performance it broke down the assumptions. Heroine’s choreo involves fast-paced and sharp moves that elevates the ensemble they’re wearing. “You just have to enjoy what you do, and do it to have fun. And that’s the biggest misconception that many people have that they go into this going into pageants or going on to TV. Those are great roles to have, but overall, it’s just all about having fun and enjoying yourself. It’s about embracing a side that you can’t really express out too much. It’s been a taboo for so long, but now it’s being embraced and showcased and appreciated by many people,” said Heroine. Lastly, was Kurt Demone or GreasePaint, a trans non-binary entertainer that performs in both Burlesque and Drag. Burlesque is a type of performance that allows the entertainer to dance provocatively and perform comically. While watching Demone’s performance, they exuded a mesh between their two performances. The number’s Demone had performed were astonishing, they were able to deliver provocative dance moves while interacting with the audience. It was like a mutual exchange between the audience members and Demone. “The drag community has been very open and understanding of it which was really nice. When I do Burlesque they’re

Performers at Cru 130. Top photo from left to right: Ronnie Punani, Kurdt Demone, Gigi Banks and Heroine. Above: Ronnie Punani Right: Heroine PHOTO BY JASON DIEZ

a little bit educated on it. I haven’t experienced any negative feedback from it,” said Demone. To the left side was the brunch food items that were being served. The food items were catered by Cuts Steakhouse on 142 W. Main Street that had eggs, candied bacon, gravy spiced with numerous black peppers and herbs, potato chunks, chocolate chip cookies, and various fruits. However, upon my arrival, they were desecrated and barely had any leftovers for the rest of the attendees While watching their performance,

it felt like a testament that they’re untouchable and unattainable, that they’re a performer that is out of this world. Evidently in all of their performances, it was a show that despite the uphill battles they may undergo, they’re able to do what they love. Right after the performances, followed an after brunch-party that allows the audience members to take pictures with their drag queens. Allowing them to connect and network and simply have fun with their favorites.

Submission deadline for student art show April 4 BY ARIANA MALLERY News Editor

After two years of being held fully virtual, the annual Student Art Exhibition in the L. H. Horton Gallery will be held in person from April 28 to May 13. Call for entries for the 23rd Annual Student Art Exhibition are open now. The deadline for submissions 3 p.m. on April 4. All students who have been enrolled in at least one Delta College course for the Fall 2021 and/or Spring 2022 academic semesters are welcome and encouraged to apply. This year’s exhibition juror will be Faith J. McKinney, owner of the Faith J. McKinnie Gallery in Sacramento, which according to their website “champions underrepresented and marginalized queer artists and artists of color.” “It’s a great experience for the students,” said

graphic design professor Melanie Marshall. “I love the student show. I think the student show is the best show of the year.” There are seven art medium categories available, each with a $100 portfolio award. To qualify for the portfolio award each applicant must submit a minimum of two artwork entries in the same medium. The medium categories available are ceramics, drawing, graphic art, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. Students seeking portfolio awards should submit a minimum of three entries and a maximum of six. One portfolio award is available for each of the above categories. Four $50 Merritt awards are also available for general participants. Awards are sponsored by the Horton Art Gallery foundation and the Frank W. Clancy Memorial Fund. General guidelines and requirements can be read

through the “student art exhibition guidelines and requirements” PDF available on the Delta College website. A mat cutting workshop will be held on March 29 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for students who need mats to complete the framing of their pieces, according to the student art exhibition guidelines and requirements. When asked about the show being held in person, Marshall replied, “I’m so excited ... thrilled.” Participants will be notified of the artwork selection on April 8, and should have their selected artwork delivered to the gallery between April 11 and the 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and by appointment. A gallery reception and award ceremony will be held on April 28 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in person at the gallery. The exhibition will run from April 28 to May 13 in the Horton Gallery, located in Shima 144.

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‘FIT FOR A QUEEN’ SHOWCASES DRAG

Stockton drag queen Hellen Heels does a makeup tutorial during “Fit for a Queen” on March 4. The event was part of a campus celebration of Women’s History Month. The two-hour tutorial featured conversation, historical facts, and a gift card drawing. PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN

New Batman movie speaks to Gen Z-ers BY MELLY LEWIS Staff Writer

nother Batman movie has been released, titled “The Batman,” drawing mixed reactions. From complaints the movie is anti-police, to questions over whether Robert Pattinson even fits the role of the masked vigilante. The movie starts off simple, Batman being Batman, defeating criminals, albeit, in a violent manner. As the movie progresses, we find out way more about Batman, his identity and his past, which all comes full circle and he has to face these problems. The difference between this movie and the previous Batman movies is that here, Batman resorts to violence far more quickly. In this movie, he helps only one police officer, as the rest of the force is corrupt. The Riddler makes a return as well, but this time he is the main driving force of the events that take place. More specifically, he makes Batman discover that his parents aren’t what they seemed to be. “I didn’t think the movie would reference the source material, [Batman Comics] and I didn’t

think that they would portray the character so well,” said student Cameron Collins after seeing the movie. “I saw myself within [Bruce Wayne]. The way he was silent around people, the way he was awkward around the press, and even comically how he wore sunglasses indoors. Everything I saw was the actor portraying a man who went through emotional trauma at such a young age and having mental illnesses and disorders as an aftermath. That’s just something that movies just don’t do anymore,” said Collins. Interestingly enough, critics have acknowledged the fact that Robert Pattinson had portrayed Bruce Wayne in a different way than the rest, he made the character realistic. In previous movies, the Bruce Wayne character was shown off as a rich and wealthy man but never had any sort of mental illness associated with him. The character felt bland but with Pattinson’s performance, he realistically played the character well, so well that many people didn’t even know it was him. Another thing that makes this movie a must see is how it connects to Gen Z.

Even though this isn’t your normal childhood Batman, it references pop culture and goes on with this running gag that Bruce Wayne is a “depressed emo goth” that listens to hard rock bands like Nirvana and My Chemical Romance. Within the first 30 minutes of the movie, Bruce is listening to Nirvana and when his butler comes in to tell Bruce something important, he states “You’re not my father.” The movie is also an outlet for many people that identify as LBGTQ+. Actress Zoe Kravitz has stated herself that she played Catwoman as if the character was bisexual and the movie was to be made for the “Girls, gays, and theys.’’ Most of the actors of the movie have accepted the cult following that the film is gaining and have been open to adding more characters from the comics and giving them new personalities while still keeping their original charm. This is a brand new era for Batman and it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the movie shows a good amount representation within race, gender, and sexual orientation.

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Delta’s women’s basketball team poses with the CCCAA State Runner-Up plaque on March 13 in Lemoore. COURTESY PHOTO BY PAUL MUYSKENS

Lady Mustangs runner-up in women’s basketball CCCAA State Championship BY DAVID VICTOR Sports Editor

Delta’s women’s basketball team fell short of winning the CCCAA State Championship after falling to Big 8 Conference rival Sierra College on March 13 in what was a face-off between the two highest-ranked teams in the state. The Mustangs had beaten the Wolverines twice in the Big 8 play, but were unable to get a third win against Sierra in the most important game of the season. Delta Head Coach Gina Johnson said beating Sierra in consecutive games was no easy task, even if her team had the confidence of getting consecutive wins against the Wolverines in conference competition. “Even though our team approached the state championship game with every intention to bring home the victory, beating another good team three times in two months is a difficult task,” she said. “We were motivat-

ed and ready for the challenge, but psychologically it brings about other challenges.” The momentum was in the Wolverines’ favor thanks to a game-changing performance from Sierra’s Jesse Miller, who scored 33 points and was a headache for the Mustangs on the defensive. “A few of the challenges we faced were the physicality of the game and Sierra had an outstanding shooting day from one of their sophomores,” said Johnson. Both teams came into the state championship on winning streaks since the last time they faced each other on Feb. 15, with Delta (30-3) accumulating nine straight victories and Sierra College (28-3) picking up five wins in a row. Johnson’s team was trailing by 21 points at the end of the third quarter with Sierra up 65-44, a situation Delta never faced in the entire season. However, the Mustangs fought hard and weren’t going down easily. Delta significantly cut Sierra’s lead in the last minutes of the game, but was unable to muster

a comeback as the score finished 76-71 for the Wolverines. Despite the loss, Johnson is proud of her team for fighting every ball until the last minute. “Our team is very competitive and has not been in the position to be down by 20 points this past season. We were forced to full-court pressure on every possession to try and dig ourselves out of the deficit,” Johnson said. “I’m proud of our team for their heart, passion and teamwork to fight in the fourth quarter.” The Mustangs showcased their resilience during the tournament. Delta saw itself trailing by 17 points at the end of the first half against Irvine Valley College (26-3) and was able to come from behind to win 77-74 and advance to the state final.

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Softball struggles in battle for top Big 8 spots BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN Staff Writer

Delta’s softball team beat Reedley college in a non-league double-header on March 20 with the first game going 3-0 and the second game 9-1. In the first inning of game one, Nicole Gardner doubled on a ground ball to the left fielder Julianna Moreno. Danyelle Godoy, Cheyenne Washington and Nicole Gardner scored all the points needed in the bottom of the first inning. Throughout the rest of the innings Delta was able to maintain its lead over Reedley with the help of pitcher Madison Nelson. “We played well and were able to score early and keep the lead,” said Head Coach Jim Fisher. In the second game, Reedley scored one single run and Delta scored nine runs. In the bottom of the first inning, Mikaela Ferreira scored the first run followed by Godoy. The bottom of the second inning Ferreira scored again and in the follow-

ing innings, Myra Toledo and Mikayla Guarasico made it 4-1. In the bottom of the fourth inning, Delta maintained its lead. The team saw runs in by bringing it home with three runs by Toledo, Ferreia and Godoy scoring making it 9-1. It was a “much better offensive approach and coming from Sunday which is abnormal for a game,” said Fisher. A proud dad and fan had something to say about the game as well. “She played good defense and hit the ball really well. The offensive teams played well, I’m proud of the Lady Mustangs,” said Daniel Godoy about Danyelle. “Go Delta!” “I feel really good that day getting on the board early and having a good defense,” said pitcher Madison Nelson. Catcher Sydney Featherstone agreed. “I’m very happy. [The] energy was high for defense and offense was very productive,” said Featherstone. As of March 22, the Lady Mustangs Delta pitcher Madison Nelson throws a pitch against Reedley College on March 20 at the are currently 10-11 and in sixth place of Delta College campus in Stockton. PHOTO BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN the Big 8 Conference.

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State Senate bill would increase abortion care access providers BY ANNABEL LOCK Staff Writer

California Senate President Pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins recently introduced SB 1375, which can be a step towards providing early access to abortion care in California. Introduced on Feb. 18, SB 1375 would help strengthen abortion care in the state by allowing nurse practitioners who meet certain criteria to be able to practice without physician supervision. The bill would refine provisions already set in place by other bills passed back in 2013 which includes Assembly member Jim Wood’s AB 890 and Atkins’ own AB 154. AB 890 authorizes nurse practitioners who meet certain requirements to practice without physician supervision and defines eligibility for those who practice independently to include certification from a nationally-accredited certifying entity and completion of postgraduate transition to practice, which under AB 890 is set at three full-time years of practice while working under physician supervision. AB 154 authorizes a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant who completed a specified training program and achieved clinical competency to continue to perform abortions by aspiration techniques. For California, this can prove to be aid since there is a current shortage of health care professionals — which has been noted by the Senate — and the bill can be beneficial since it would expand access to safe abortion care. Not only will it help Californians but also people from afar seeking a safe haven due to their own home states' restrictions on abortions. There are 21 states with active abortion restrictive laws in place currently, according to the

Center for American Progress (CAP), a nonpartisan policy institute. Back in 2021, there were 561 introduced abortion restrictions which came from every state excluding three. Of the 561 introduced 97 of them were enacted into law as of August 2021, according to CAP. In early September 2021, Texas passed SB 8, which bans abortions after the six-week mark of pregnancy. This proves to be an issue since most women usually detect they’re pregnant around the 4-7 week mark of gestation. “As we see patients forced to seek abortion and reproductive health care in California because of hostile bans in their home states, this legislation will improve the network of available providers by ensuring that nurse practitioners can provide care, including abortion, in independent settings and increase access to these services throughout the state,” said President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California Jodi Hicks in a news release issued by Atkins. There is a variety of different abortion care organizations but one of the leading providers is Planned Parenthood. The organization is supportive of SB 1375. The bill is not without opposition. California Family Council published a release on March 14 saying the “bill is an attempt to increase profits for abortion providers and combat the growing pro-life movement.” It also noted that “Democrats are willing to put mothers in danger and prioritize abortion access over women’s safety in order to further their radical abortion agenda.” SB 1375 is currently before the Senate Committee on Business, Professions, and Economic Development.

Tax deadline looms on April 18 BY GRACIELA GABRIEL Staff Writer

As students come back from Spring Break, the deadline for filing taxes also approaches. This year’s tax season started Jan.1 and it ends on April 18, falling on a Monday. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the tax deadline was extended, last year until May 17. Students don’t have that option for 2022. This year regardless of residents who are still recuperating from the pandemic getting back on their feet by going back to their jobs or just trying to get back with their routines; this year the last day of filing taxes was not extended. For students who have not been able to get a hold of any tax form from Delta they can find information in “deltacol-

lege.edu” by hitting the search button and typing “1098-T Tuition Tax Credits.” Students can also now find any school tax forms in “MyDelta.” Students are able to click on the desired tax year form which will be under “1098-T Report Selection” and would be able to print for tax purposes. On the Delta College website under “How to Obtain Your 1098-T Form,” it states students who haven’t paid any school fees tuition, enrollment fee, or any previous related expenses year will not have a 1098-T available. For students who are full or parttime students or have full-time/parttime work and can’t meet deadlines to set a meeting with a tax attorney or tax preparer, the option to file it on their own on any smart device is available. Students who are comfortable doing their own taxes can now do so on di-

percent of the time, at least 65 percent of time and come back and work with students,” said Blanchard. Board members Catherine Mathis and Teresa Brown were the most vocal during the meeting, as they were both opposed to the lifting of the mask mandate. “This was the agreement that everybody had when they signed on…These were the rules that they knew about and I think we should adhere to them,” Brown said in favor of keeping the mandate. Mathis criticized the task force, specifically in her comments. “You know I mean I’ve been waiting for this report for some time that was a part of the report I wanted, and right now I'm not hearing what those data are,” Mathis said. Brown also questioned the makeup of the task force. “Who actually is on the Covid19 task force at Delta College?” Brown said. Cordova responded that 12 people were on the task force, before correcting herself to say there were 23 members.

The food pantry has reopened in its original location of Shima 101 after being relocated to an alternate location after flooding during the 2021/2022 winter break. PHOTO BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN

DELTA TAX HELP Delta sent emails to students email explaining steps to get their 1098-T forms. Those directions are: • Click on the Financial Account tile on the Student Homepage • Expand “Account Services” and click on view 1098-T • Click on the “Grant Consent” button • Read the agreements • Hit the “submit” button

rect-to-consumer products from TurboTax and H&R Block. Not to worry for those who feel intimidated in doing their taxes on their own, as these services also offer live customer, support agents who can help with the process. Apps like Turbo Tax or H&R Block occasionally offer to file taxes for free for first-time users. However, these apps do have a cost

MASKS: Mandate continues on campus continued from PAGE 1

FOOD PANTRY RETURNS HOME

Faculty members also spoke in favor of keeping the mandate, at least for some classes. Shenny Cruces, a ceramics instructor, spoke during public comment that some classes, such as labs, have different instruction requirements that present different environments when it comes to safety. “I’d like to request that masks remain in studio lab courses. In my courses, students sit across from each other at tables roughly 3 feet by 5 feet for two to three hour class sessions,” said Cruces. “Labs are very different environments than the typical lecture, where students are spending very prolonged periods of time together and there’s no room for social distancing.” Cruces said now is not the right time to remove the mandate, given the semester has already started. “Those students signed up for this semester with a list of protocols Delta was taking to make them feel safe enough to enroll in my hybrid course, knowing they would be spending prolonged periods of time with other students,” Cruces said. “To change directions mid-semester and right before the last day to withdraw with a W is a disservice to those students who feel vulnerable.”

fee. Students who file their taxes with Turbo Tax not only can they file tuition and fees but also course materials like books, supplies, and equipment. On the H&R Block website under “tuition and fees deduction” one of the first steps would be to communicate with the parent or guardian to confirm you are not anyone’s dependent on their taxes. This not only applies in H&R Block, as it is certain to apply when filing taxes. Full-time students can still be under someone dependent till the age of 24. In a poll on the San Joaquin Delta College Facebook group of more than 7,000 students, students were asked if they file their taxes this year on their own or with an attorney. In the poll, there were 41 voters and out of those voters, 24 voted that they file their taxes on their own and 17 said they file with a tax preparer.

GRADUATION: To be held in person on May 19 continued from PAGE 1 special,” said Robyn Jones, former Collegian staff member and 2021 San Joaquin Delta College graduate. “When the two names were repeated over and over on top of everyone’s name, I was lowkey mad.” After the mishaps at the virtual graduation mentioned by Jones, two in-person ceremonies were rescheduled for June 25 and June 26 for the classes of 2020 and 2021. “I was glad it didn’t happen to me but it was messed up for everyone else,” said Jones. “The fact they took forever to give us an in-person graduation … was disappointing.” With the ceremony set to be held in person, the technical issues faced last year are not likely to be a prominent concern. The only thing students will have to worry about is their family embarrassing them when their name is called. Most students can relate to the parting sentiments of Bright. “I’m a little nervous but ready to take the next step!” she said.