The Collegian - Published April 7, 2023

GLOZELL BRINGS HUMOR TO CAMPUS

BY ARIANNA JUÁREZ Editor-in-Chief

Social media powerhouse GloZell, best known for her neon green lipstick and viral YouTube videos, brought comedy and conversation to Delta’s Tillie Lewis Theatre on March 30.

The discussion panel was put on by the Women’s History Month Committee, the Cultural Awareness Program, and Delta College Digital Media to commemorate and celebrate the accomplishments of women in the community.

GloZell has a unique tie to the Delta College campus — Dr. Monique Fortunato, Associate Professor of Biological Anthropology at Delta — is her cousinin-law.

During the panel moderated by Mass Communication/Journalism Professor Tara Cuslidge-Staiano and Digital Media Professor Adriana Brogger, the social media powerhouse gave Delta students a look into her world as an influencer.

After graduating from the University of Florida, the aspiring comedian moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams of stardom.

Eager to learn the trade, she became a mainstay in the audience of the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

GloZell said she attended more than 600 screenings of the show, and cites Leno’s professionalism and work ethic as inspirational to her during her own journey to stardom.

The comedian and content creator first came into the public eye in the late 2000s after posting videos on YouTube.

She became widely known for her song-parodies and comedy videos, and gained nation-wide recognition when actor Elijah Wood mentioned her vlog-style videos during an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Her iconic take on the cinnamon challenge

See GLOZELL,page 8

Class offerings continue to grow at World of Wonders in Lodi

Partnership with science museum opens up educational opportunities for North County residents

BY VANESSA GOMEZ Staff Writer

This summer will be the second time Delta College will be offering classes at the World of Wonders museum in Lodi.

The partnership officially began in the Fall 2022, and having classes in the museum continues Delta College’s push into having classes in the North County.

“Having college classes in the North County is creating a lot of conversation, and it’s all been beneficial.” said Sally Snyde, president of the World of Wonders museum.

Delta College will be expanding what is available in the museum to more than just classes. General support services like admissions and financial aid help will become available in the museum. More specialized help, like in-person tutoring and immigration help is only available on campus.

“It’s a good way for folks to ask questions and get in-person help without having to drive to the Stockton campus,” said Alex Breitler, director of Marketing and Communications.

This will not be the first attempt for Delta College to expand into North County.

There was originally meant to be a campus established in Galt, when the Delta College board of trustees agreed to purchase a plot of land in the town that borders the Sacramento and San Joaquin county lines. A campus was never built there due to the discovery of a protected species on the land and the land was eventually sold in November 2022.

In 2019, during the attempt to establish a Galt campus, Delta’s then-President Kathy Hart began talking with Snyde to establish night classes at the museum.

“There was an empty building on the museum that is separate from the main part of the museum,” said

Snyde. “The outside of the building is very well-lit, and the parking is free, which makes it a safe place to have night classes.”

The classes are being held in a 1700 square foot building that is separate from the main building of the museum, so students can learn and not be interrupted by museum-goers.

The museum was co-founded by Snyde to help the Lodi community learn more about math and science.

“It’s a museum for people of all ages to learn and discover new things,” said Snyde. “It’s not just for children.

Though this partnership is not permanent, it will likely continue into the next coming semesters.

“Delta College has been working with the high school students in Lodi, and they are able to take college classes in the town they live in, without having to commute,” said Snyde. “It’s important that we have this opportunity in North County.”

Social media maven GloZell visited Delta College on Mar. 30.

Mass communications professor Tara Cuslidge-Staiano (far left) and digital media professor Adriana Brogger (far right) moderated the panel. GloZell shared her social media journey as well as tips and tricks to gain an online audience.

PHOTOS BY DUANE SANDERS

VIEW HIGHLIGHTS

View a video from Delta College’s Digital Media program showcasing highlights from the event at bit.ly/glozellhighlights

illness of depression creates loud echoes on body, mind

BY NICHOLAS MICHELSEN Entertainment Editor

Wakeup at noon. Gasp for air in a sigh of relief.

Relish the first few moments of consciousness in gratitude that you didn’t die in your sleep, and realize this feeling is fleeting as the sudden dread of another day of existence follows suit.

Lay in bed for another hour in the dark silence.

Boot your computer and stare at the screen that stares back into your tender soul. Keep the curtains drawn so that not even God himself may see the ugliness inside of your spaceship on its collision course downward into Hell.

Depression is the loneliest sense of isolation, no matter how many people you surround yourself with.

The American Psychiatry Association describes depression as “a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act.”

As medically accurate as this vague statement is, I feel it misses the spirit of the bigger picture.

I often feel trapped inside of a white room made of bone, gazing outward into the world watching the people pass by and the body I inhabit reacts to these moments accordingly. It is the imposter and I am it’s captivated parasite.

I am the faceless entity viewing reruns of the past choices that have been attributed to me, that have humiliated me. In here I am alone and haunted by the whisper of my demons laughing at the echoes of my past.

Waves of hyper-control and mania followed by days and weeks of disassociation in an alien-land. Depression feels like being a stranger in familiar

places and being home-sick for a home that I have never visited. Maybe I was never invited-in to begin with.

Comedian, character-actor, director and writer Jim Carrey speaks out about his own struggle with depression in an interview with Outstanding Screenplays.

“I don’t exist, so uh- they’re all characters I played,” Carrey continues. “I played the guy that was free from concern so that people that watched me would be free from concern,” he says, describing his own personae.

When I was a child I assumed I woke-up in a world alone and depression was an entity with malicious intent. As I grew older and found other perspectives, I have learned this is not the case at all.

Malice would attribute something of higher complex thought: Planning and deceiving with a purpose.

“The difference between depression and sadness is; sadness is just from happenstance. Whatever happened or didn’t happen for you, or grief or whatever it is. And depression is your body saying, ‘f**k you, I don’t want to be this character anymore. I don’t want to hold up this avatar that you’ve created in the world. It’s too much for me,’” Jim Carrey explains regarding the mechanisms of depression.

Depression itself is so cold, that it is indifferent to us entirely. It is an unconscious mind-worm. A strange phenomenon that co-exists with the human experience. Depression is not a demon, because even a demon feels justified in its wrath against all things righteous.

No, depression just is, and it hurts constantly. It is an invisible aliment that plagues its hosts into more serious illnesses.

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.

Heather Bradford works as a counselor at Delta within the Counseling and Special Services Division.

When asked about the depression, Bradford explains as follows:

“Depression is an illness that is silent, because no one can really see it.”

She compares this illness to injuries like broken bones, abrasions, lacerations, etc…

“It’s something that’s an illness that you can’t really see. You can only really see the symptoms of it,” Bradford explains.

The term “depression” is often interchangeably misused in a variety of ways to describe sadness, grief and other extreme emotions.

“It is a term a lot of people tend to use very loosely to describe a very wide spectrum of emotions. Same thing with anxiety, that’s a diagnosable, clinical disorder,” Bradford said.

Additionally, there are assessments that can be done in private or with a counselor.

Bradford encourages students to reach out.

“There are ways to do a self assessment. That’s just a guideline that a person would use to then have a way to know [if they] need to talk to someone,” Bradford explained.

“Someone can be depressed for a period of time but because they haven’t talked about it, they haven’t really expressed it to anyone because of the stigma behind it or maybe they feel ashamed, or they’re feeling that if [they] talk about it, no one will really get it. They’ll just tell [the affected person] to get over it or it’s

all in [their] head. Unfortunately there’s a lot of stigma around mental health conditions including depression,” Bradford said, encouraging people and students in need to reach out.

The counseling department at Delta can not only make assessments, but can also offer counseling and help connect students to resources such as therapy on campus and/or within the community.

“All of the counselors at Delta College are masters trained counselors. We are not therapists, but we have a basic ability to do personal counseling,” Bradford said.

As for myself, I have been diagnosed with moderate to severe depression, chronic anxiety, and PTSD.

Whether you are someone that has been diagnosed, is seeking a diagnosis or have general grief; if you need help please reach out to someone.

The greatest lie my depression has ever told to me was; “I do not exist.” After all, how can anyone seek help for an injury that is completely fabricated?

For more information you can reach out to the counseling department at: (209) 954-5151

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self harm or happens to be in crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or dial 911.

At your darkest moment you are not alone, and neither am I.

Someone loves you even when you feel unloved. Be kind to yourself, and please take care.

‘Silent’

4/20 celebrated as a stoner’s holiday

BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN Photo Editor

It’sa day when stoners - and others - give themselves permission to get high. It’s not acknowledged as a Federal holiday, but it’s a cause for celebration for many who love marijuana. How did it start?

Who really knows, but it is celebrated yearly. Friends get together and smoke for hours.

A 2016 Time article “Here’s the Real Reason We Associate 420 With Weed,” included different origin theories as to how the commemorative day started.

The Time Theories include:

• “Some say “420” is code among police officers for ‘marijuana smoking in progress.’”

• “One goes as far as to cite Bob Dylan’s song ‘Rainy Day Women #12 & 35’ because 12 multiplied by 35 equals 420.’”

• The most credible story traces 4/20 to Marin County, Calif. In 1971, five students at San Rafael High School would meet at 4:20 p.m. by the campus’ statue of chemist Louis Pasteur to partake. They chose that specific time because extracurricular activities had usually ended by then. This group — Steve Capper, Dave Reddix, Jeffrey Noel, Larry Schwartz, and Mark Gravich — became known as the ‘Waldos’ because they met at a wall. They would say ‘420’ to each other as code for marijuana.”

There are even certain places known nationally where people gather together and smoke, such as San Francisco’s Sharon Meadows area in Golden Gate Park, also known as Hippie Hill. On April 20, you can literally see clouds of smoke and hear music playing while they’re at the park.

Smoking weed is not all puff and pass.

There are potential dangers in lighting up, including laced marijuana that includes other dangerous substances such as PCP or fentanyl.

“Marijuana laced with PCP causes a wide range of symp-

toms including severe hallucinations, impaired coordination, slurred speech, aggressive or violent behavior, disorientation, paranoia and seizures. If too much is smoked, the person can fall into a coma and die,” according to 12 Keys, a rehab-therapy program focused on addiction.

Fentanyl is not just a danger for marijuana smokers. It can cause major damage.

“Fentanyl-laced marijuana is especially dangerous because it enters the brain faster than typical medical applications via a patch or lozenge. Clammy skin slowed heartbeat, seizures, and severe drowsiness are all signs of a fentanyl overdose. If you suspect that some one has accidentally smoked fentanyl-laced marijuana, get them to a hospital immediately. Too much fentanyl can actually stop the heart and brain functions, and it’s easy to overdose on it when it’s mixed with marijuana.”

What are some steps that you should take when it comes to smoking safely on 4/20?

First off, safety is important, particularly when fentanyl contamination is a consideration.

Buy your marijuana from a legal cannabis dispensary. You can also buy from someone you know and trust, but know that it’s never a guarantee an independent supplier meets the same health and safety regulations as a regulated seller. I personally go to a trusted dispensary to purchase my marijuana because I know that it’s safer to purchase from there.

Also smoke with people that you know and trust and if your friends buy the weed make sure that they know the person. 4/20 is not a date to be making friends with people who may not be friends.

Most importantly: Think safety when you toke.

Traditional landscaping may harm biodiversity

BY DYLAN JAEKEL Feature Editor

Welove our lawns to be prim and proper; cutting our grass short, trimming bushes and trees to our desired shape, and planting flowers and plants that are not native to the area. The problem with this landscaping that we have become accustomed to is that we may be harming the native biodiversity in the area.

“Unfortunately, most of the landscaping plants available in nurseries are alien species from other countries. These exotic plants not only sever the food web, but many have become invasive pests, out-competing native species and degrading habitat in remaining natural areas,” says the website of the National Audubon Society, which aims to preserve birds and their habitats.

Native grass and lawns are more sustainable. These grasses require less water than grasses such as centipe-

degrass or bermudagrass, which are common grasses used for lawns.

“Every year across the country, lawns consume nearly 3 trillion gallons of water a year, 200 million gallons of gas (for all that mowing), and 70 million pounds of pesticides,” according to a 2016 article by the National Resource Defense Council, an international environmental advocacy non-profit based in the United States.

Native California biodiversity is resilient to harsh weather. Plants such as the California goldfield, miniature lupine, and blue field gilia are all drought tolerant and can be found growing in Stockton. Plants such as the California wildrose, the common meadowfoam, and the California buttercup, which can also all be found in Stockton, can survive in moisture levels that range from low to high. The Calscape website provides a tool to see which plants are native to the Stockton area and what conditions they can grow in.

Native grasses do not need the same maintenance; they can be left to grow

long, require less watering and add to your garden’s native biodiversity.

Native biodiversity requires fewer pesticides and chemicals. “Lawns and the ubiquitous bark-mulched landscapes are notorious for requiring profuse amounts of artificial fertilizers and synthetic chemical pesticides and herbicides,” says the National Audubon Society. “The traditional suburban lawn, on average, has 10 times more chemical pesticides per acre than farmland. By choosing native plants for your landscaping, you are not only helping wildlife, but you are creating a healthier place for yourself, your family, and your community.”

Manicured lawns drive away local pollinators. Pollinators include bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, beetles and mosquitoes. Pollinators are essential to the environment because their work helps plants, fruits and flowers to grow, prevents soil erosion and contributes to clean air.

“Three-fourths of the world’s flowering plants and about 35 percent of the world’s food crops depend on ani-

Android owners judged for ‘green bubbles’

BY JADA PORTILLO Opinion Editor

Myfirst phone was a Samsung Galaxy S3, which was easily identified as an Android considering the camera was in the middle of the phone.

Being an Android owner for more than six years, I’ve learned to go through bullying from iPhone users and learn to accept my Android, though I’d rather not talk about what kind of phone I have.

Having a Samsung Galaxy S21 has made it easier for me to hide the fact I have an Android since the cameras at the back look similar to an iPhone from afar, making me less of a target for anti-Android comments.

An article from the Wall Street Journal in January 2022, discusses Android users being left out for being a green bubble.

“Apple’s iMessage plays a significant role in the lives of young smartphone users and their parents, according to data and interviews with a dozen of these people,” Tim Haggins from Wall Street Journal wrote. “Teens and college students said they dread

the ostracism that comes with a green text. The social pressure is palpable, with some reporting being ostracized or singled out after switching away from iPhones.”

The green bubble is for SMS messages, basically how Apple tells an iPhone user they are texting a non-iPhone user.

To help with the divide between blue and green bubbles, in August of 2022, Android launched the hashtag #GetTheMessage to bring attention to Apple about getting rid of the green bubble.

Android users then took to Twitter using the hashtag and tagging Apple with the same message: ‘stop breaking my texting experience,’ while linking the campaign.

Besides the green bubble, Android users hoped Apple would switch to the modern industry standard, RCS, which helps both parties communicate better according to the Android campaign. Regarding the campaign, Apple didn’t listen to Android users.

Though in October 2021, Apple has made FaceTime more accessible to Android users by having a link sent from the iPhone user.

“With so many people around you having top

mal pollinators to reproduce. That’s one out of every three bites of food you eat. More than 3,500 species of native bees help increase crop yields,” according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Manicured lawns contain little native biodiversity to attract pollinators, and insecticides applied to lawns drive them away.

Those who may be considering planting native plants in their gardens may be worried about the amount of their level of maintenance and work, can rest assured that native plants are easier to grow. Native plants are adapted to an area’s weather, water and soil conditions, which means they are more prepared for changes. Native plants are also noninvasive, meaning they will not negatively affect other native plants. There are many benefits of having a biodiverse garden or lawn for individuals and for the environment. The planting of native biodiversity helps to protect our local environment now and in the future.

of the line iPhones and you were to have any other brand of smartphone and then all of those many people talk about their phones, you would feel like the wallflower of the party,” Justin Ver Panopio said, mentioning Android users may have a fear of missing out and iPhone fuels this.

My freshman year of high school was my prime year for wanting an iPhone since the comments from my peers finally caught up to me. Relationships and potential bonds all were severed just because of the phone I had.

Though for some I became an exception, AKA the only Android friend they would have.

During a recent experience, someone commented on the fact I have an Android around their iPhone friends, later on that evening I found out they had an Android. Could it be that they were ashamed of their phone so they made a comment about mine? I’ll never know.

Missing out on certain apps, liking a message and confetti on a screen, the pressure of having an iPhone resurfaces every now and then.

“Apple is just too big a name to look away from,” Panopio said.

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN

County Pride Center offers gender-affirming garments

BY DYLAN JAEKEL Feature Editor

For transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals, having access to gender-affirming garments is an important necessity. These garments can provide relief, security and safety to those who need them.

These garments can often be considered life-changing and life-saving care to many individuals.

It can also be considered a part of gender-affirming care.

“Gender-affirming care, sometimes referred to as transition-related care, is life-saving healthcare for transgender people of all ages,” notes the Human Rights Campaign. “It is not a single category of services but instead is a range of services, including mental health care, medical care, and social services.”

The San Joaquin Pride Center launched its gender-affirming garment program in February.

“The gender-affirming garment program is a program meant to provide transgender, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming, and other gender-diverse individuals with affirming garments that are safe and reliable. These garments include chest binders, breast forms, packers, and tucking underwear,” said James Patnaude, San Joaquin Pride Center’s Transgender Service Specialist and creator of the program.

Patnaude defines chest binders, tucking underwear, packers, and breast forms as the following:

• Chest binders are garments that are intended to compress breast tis-

sue (called “binding”) in order to create a flatter, more masculine appearance.

• Gaffs or tucking underwear are garments meant to help minimize the appearance of a crotch bulge (called 'tucking') and can help transfeminine women or anyone with a penis who is looking to achieve a smoother, more affirming appearance of their

pelvic area.

• Packers are a prosthetic or other object placed inside someone's pants to create a bulge and achieve the look and feel of having a penis.

• Breast forms are prosthetic breasts that some transfeminine and gender non-conforming folks choose to wear underneath their day-today clothing.

“Having access to safe and

affirming garments is incredibly important to assist a trans or gender-diverse individual with aligning their body with their gender identity. Having safe garments such as chest binders and tucking underwear not only promotes better mental well-being in our trans and gender-diverse community, it also helps prevent physical injuries,” said Patnaude. Often when individuals don’t have access to gender-affirming garments, they may use other products that aren’t intended for this use, which can have adverse effects.

“Because these garments can be expensive and therefore inaccessible to many with lower incomes, some trans individuals will resort to using duct tape, ace wrap, or even glue to tuck or bind, which can cause serious injuries to their skin,

ribs, lungs, and genitals that can sometimes be permanent,” said Patnaude.

Individuals of all ages may apply to the gender-affirming garment program to receive garments, but how they may apply does differ by age.

All applicants must live in the Central Valley.

For those 13 and under, a parent or guardian must apply for you. Those 14-18 may apply on their own. Those over 18 may apply if they experience financial hardship, are unable to afford a garment, or cannot obtain a garment themselves. For those wanting to donate to the program, monetary donations are accepted via PayPal. Check or cash donations may be dropped off in person or mailed to the San Joaquin Pride Center.

Delta hosts event celebrating Iranian New Year in Dawn Mabalon Forum

BY GRACIELA GABRIEL Senior Staff Writer

Nowruz is the Persian New Year, which translates to “new day.”

The celebration begins the first day of spring during the spring equinox, which takes place from March 20-21

This year Delta’s College student empowerment cultural and equity committee hosted an event for Nowruz on Monday, March 23 in the Dawn Mabalon Forum Monday.

This celebration generally includes gatherings with family and friends, food, dancing, singing and poems. The campus celebration included a guest speaker.

Adjunct Professor Tannaz Tabatabaei, was the speaker for the event.

The event was a presentation about how Nowruz Persian New Year is celebrated.

Nowruz is celebrated for 13 days. “We start the celebration with hugging and congratulating each other no matter the time. We send beautiful postcards to each other and the card includes omen and poems. For me the celebration started during work time,” said Tabatabaei.

Nowruz is celebrated in Iran and some parts of central Asia. The earliest origins of this celebration lie in Zoroastrianism that originated in what is now modern day-Iran for almost 3500 years.

Before Nowruz occurs some people start to deep clean the entire house to receive guests and also a fresh start.

“I don’t think people realize how Nowruz is a big celebration back home in Iran. Schools, stores and jobs are closed during Nowruz. Nowruz is as

big as a Christmas celebration, that is why I think it’s so important for people to know how and why we celebrate it” said Tabatabaei.

The first day of the celebration of Nowruz takes place inside home as people are prepared to receive guests with sweets and fruits.

Those who celebrate go around and visit family members and friends.

They also set up a Haft-seen table. The table includes seven items, since seven is considered a lucky number. The items all start with the letter “S” in Persian and they symbolize spring and renewal.

This items are:

• Sabzeh (sprouts) which represents rebirth.

• Samanu (sweet pudding) represents fertility.

• Serkeh (vinegar) represents patience.

• Seeb (apple) represents beauty.

• Seer (garlic) represents good health.

• Sekeh (coins) represents prosperity.

• Sonbol (hyacinth) represents spring.

A tradition that can’t be missed is a gold fish which symbolizes “movement of life.”

They also eat fish which is a symbol of wellness, prosperity and health, according to Tabatabaei.

Some families in Iran give children paper money and if they keep it that will bring them good luck in their life.

Another thing they do for the festival is on the last Wednesday they jump over a fire and repeat affirmations like

“may sickness and negative burn this fire.” It is also considered a sacred symbol. This activity takes place on the last day of Wednesday during the 13 day celebration.

Tabatabaei said it has been harder to do some of these things than back in Iran.

“I think last Wednesday, jumping on fire is one of the things us Iranis in

the U.S. can’t do much, over there it’s such a big celebration that everywhere is closed and still do it, however, today some places in Iran are also prohibited to jump on fire. Also due to work I try to celebrate those 13 days but it can get complicated but it is a tradition I am passing on to my son,” said Tabatabaei.

SAN JOAQUIN PRIDE CENTER

The San Joaquin Pride Center is located at 937 N. Yosemite St., Stockton, 95203. Its Facebook page is facebook.com/sjpridecenter For more information on the gender-affirming program or to apply, visit cutt.ly/garmentapp

Donations to the Pride Center are accepted through PayPal at paypal.me/sjpridecenter

FINDING A CAMPUS ZEN PLACE

BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN Photo Editor

Stress comes with being a college student, particularly with the pressure of getting assignments in on time, not understanding assignments, or not

getting the grade you wanted on an assignment or in a class.

It’s predictable that you might need a “woosah” moment to yourself.

But where on campus can you find a moment of peace and get yourself together?

Delta College has a few quiet places on campus to take a mental break that busy students don’t seem to notice, or pass by without considering the option to sit and have a second of clarity.

The Demonstration Garden on the North side of Burke Bradley Drive also has an area with chairs and tables where visitors can sit and eat, do homework or listen to your music in peace. You can also look at all the plants and veggies that are growing in that area. The location is sometimes so quiet it doesn’t feel like you’re on campus.

“It’s very pretty and serene, and very private and allows you to take a moment and be with nature,” said Dr. Heather Maloy of the spot.

in the heart of campus also offers a soothing place where you can sit and look at the fish in the water. While others pass by you don’t notice how busy the quad is and it make it feel as if you’re somewhere else.

Inside Danner Hall is “the box.” It’s located in the middle of Danner Hall, but it’s actually an outdoor space. I found that it’s peaceful and it cancels out the sound of everyone, an oasis in the middle of the chaos of campus.

Observing Ramadan with Delta’s Active Minds

BY ANDREA RIVERA Staff Writer

Muslims worldwide will be celebrating the ninth month in the Islamic calendar better known as Ramadan from March 22 to April 20.

On March 22 an Active Minds meeting took place with a focus on Ramadan. It was stated in a powerpoint slide shared during the meeting that, “the members of the faith believe that during Ramadan the gates of heaven are open and the gates of hell are closed.” During this time they observe a strict daily fast for a month until sunset. They’re not allowed to eat or drink, this includes water, during these times.

However, some are exempt from this practice which include pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, women on their menstrual cycle, elderly, travelers, those who may be physically or mentally incapable of fasting and children (who are encouraged after they hit puberty to try to fast when they can).

Delta College student Deeba Saeed

and presenter in the meeting, said that while she was growing up and in school, explaining to the other kids why she was celebrating Ramadan was hard.

“100 percent yes! Most kids were understanding, but since we were so young at the time a lot of them would peer pressure other Muslims to drink water because ‘no one can see me’ but in reality God could,” she said “It would get annoying having to repeatedly say not even water but over time I feel like the generations knew more about Islam and why we do things the way we do.”

The meeting also taught the attendees that Ramadan isn’t just about fasting. It’s a time for the Muslim community to focus on peace, tranquility, curing, goodness, forgiving, mercy, attain paradise, to give back and increase in charity and center the Quran.

“The vibes. Once Ramadan starts the environment is much more peaceful,” said Delta College student and presenter Maahirah Khan of her fa-

vorite part of Ramadan “As it is a time to reduce earthly distractions, so you can clearly focus on your relationship with God. When I am closest to my religion, that is when I feel the happiest.”

Ramadan is also the month that Muslims increase worship and spiritual development. Daily prayers are performed five times within the day and a special prayer called Taraweeh Prayer is only offered during this month.

The Taraweeh Prayer involves reading long portions of the Quran, as well as performing many units of prayers or Rakahs (cycles of movement involved in Islamic prayer). It is only prayed at night and approximately takes an hour or more to complete.

For the younger generations in the Muslim community, finding a safe place to perform prayers throughout the day is difficult.

“It's not necessarily hard to find places to pray, but most of the time they aren't comfortable,” said Saeed about growing up to now at Delta “For

example when we are out shopping, we either have to pray in a super tight corner, or in a fitting room which aren’t the best places. Although, if there is a Muslim owner of a shop they will most likely have a prayer room or spots for people to pray which is nice.”

In March, the Collegian reported on a student who is working to start a Muslim Student Association and identify a safe prayer space on campus.

After Ramadan, the Eid al-Fitr, a three-day holiday begins.

Eid stands for “feast” or “festival” in Arabic. The first day of Eid most of the Muslim community will attend mosques and offer Eid prayer. Afterwards they gather with family and friends and celebrate with huge feasts, gifts, games, new clothes and more.

“It's time to connect or reconnect with God,” said Khan as an explanation for people who do not observe Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr “One who is observing any of the activities should show respect as you would to any other religions.”

The area behind the DeRicco Student Services Building includes the Elizabeth Humbargar Tolerance Garden. The very Zen garden escape offers a place to gather yourself while you sit with plants. It’s a perfect zone to take deep breaths and listen to relaxing music.

The Koi pond

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA GOODMAN

JUDGING MOVIES BY THE TITLE

Ignorant film reviews based solely on my ridiculously fast and loose first impressions

BY NICHOLAS MICHELSEN Entertainment Editor

They say don’t judge a book by its cover, but who has time to read every single book?

In fact, I haven’t read more than a single paragraph in any book since 1997 when I threw ‘Cat In The Hat’ by Dr. Suess against the wall and said “Make it a movie or I ain’t buyin’ it!”

My words have since come back to haunt me with the fall of Blockbuster and the rise of corporate streaming services.

Gone are the days of uniform boxes in white, with blue trim and large bold fonts over a yellow logo.

I only have time to watch hours of 30 second clips at a time these days! So I say, judge every movie by its poster.

If you disagree with any of these reviews, please understand that all of my findings are backed by the latest science performed nightly in my bedroom, alone with a bottle of Sailor Jerry.

You cannot argue with the facts.

READ MORE

For more ‘Ignorant Reviews’ head over to The Collegian website for the full article and more! Visit deltacollegian.net

EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE

I rented this while drunk in a Motel 6. It was not the kind of movie I wanted, but it turned out to be the movie I needed. I found the other thing I was looking for afterwards.

CREED III

To be honest, there are so many Assassin’s Creed video games at this point I lost track. I doubt the movies will get me interested at this point.

PLANE

I mean, what do you want me to say? It’s another Gerald Butler action film. I could make a pun about how plain this idea is, but the title does that for me. Have not seen this. I am willing to bet it’s worthy of the score: 1.5/5

COCAINE BEAR

What’s better than nature? Nature on drugs. Boom. Nature Accelerated; which sounds like a tagline for Monster Energy Organic series.

MEGAN

Karen’s daughter seeks revenge on Starbucks for the incorrect execution of her Upside Skinny Caramel Macchiato? Sounds scary. No, it wasn’t about that. It’s about a creepy doll doing creepy dances and some murder gets mixed in. Unintentionally funny!

Chris Rock showcases ‘Selective Outage’ in new Netflix special

BY NICHOLAS MICHELSEN Entertainment Editor

On March 4, Chris Rock dropped his latest onehour special with Netflix, “Selective Outrage.”

The star comedian steps onto the stage dressed in a pristine white outfit with his sleeves rolled up, slick but casual-cool, and up to the microphone with the ferocity of a hell-fire southern preacher.

With the energy and hunger of his younger self, Rock taps into his youthful rage, the Chris we knew from 27 years ago. I’m talking about peak-Rock in his prime at the release of ‘Bring Da Pain’ in 1996. Rock lampoons mod ern culture and young people while pointing out the absurdities of an attention-seeking society.

With heavy undertones of social commentary, Rock calls out hypocrisy in the current social zeit geist.

In his new special, Rock is opinionated, stubborn, raw, a bit offen sive and unapologetic.

Love or hate this ap proach, the best art in his tory has always been thought provoking.

A societal mirror.

If you are willing to listen to someone you may very well disagree with, I think you may just see the writ er’s brilliance in the use of metaphors, and the hilarity within the absurdist performance itself.

Chris Rock brings material that appears to be well thought-out, well-written and carefully executed. From the U.S. involvement with Ukraine, the polarization of both Republican and the Democratic parties and being a father of girls, Rock’s thoughts and ideas pour into his act.

“Ukraine is united and America is divided,” Rock stated in his banter before concluding his point.

“If the Russians came here right now, half of the country would go; ‘Let’s hear ‘em out’,” said Rock, followed by laughter.

Finally toward the end, near the last nine minutes,

cheated on. Everybody in here; been cheated on. None of us have ever been interviewed by the person that cheated on us, on television! None of us!” Rock exclaimed before executing a hilarious punchline to drive home his point.

Comedy is subjective, so it will not be for everyone. Whether you take offense to some of the premises, his commentary, or genuinely don’t have the same sense of humor, I still believe “Selective Outrage” was a successful performance by a master craftsman.

Love him or hate him, his talent and skill as an entertainer shines through his bright pearly smile and his fresh white-fit.

The polar opposite of his black attire worn in ‘96, it feels like nothing was unintentional and here we have come full circle.

“Opioids are not the biggest addiction in America. No. Not even close, man. The biggest addiction in America is attention.” — Chris Rock, ‘Selective Outrage’, Netflix (2023).

‘Selective Outrage’ promo-photo of Chris Rock with a goat on stage.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX PRESS KIT

CHRIS ROCK

DELTA BASEBALL COMES UP SHORT

BY BRYAN RAMOS Sports Editor

The Delta baseball team played at home versus Folsom Lake on March 30. Delta gave it their all, but came up short.

In the first inning, Delta started off with their pitcher Conner Semone on the mound. Semone struck out three opponents in the first inning but that didn’t stop Folsom from scoring two runs. Delta started to pick up momentum after Dominic Rodriguez hit the ball far enough to let two of his teammates make it to home base and make it 2-2 towards the end of the first inning.

In the second inning, Delta fell behind again. Towards the

end of the inning, Delta was close to tying it but a foul ball hit by Grant McArthur got caught and left the Mustangs behind 5-4.

The third inning consisted of both teams fighting hard to get a point in but neither of the teams were able to and it ended up staying 0-0 for that inning, with Folsom still taking the lead 5-4 overall.

Delta had an excellent run in the fourth inning. Semone struck out three Folsom hitters in a row. Later in the inning, Delta managed to tie it up 5-5 after Cody Borraggine got out, which gave a chance for their teammate from third base to come home and it stayed like that for the inning.

Delta started off the fifth inning with Semone striking out three Folsom hitters in a row again. Delta eventually got three outs also and the fifth inning finishes scoreless.

Delta repeated the same thing in the sixth inning with Semone once again striking out three hitters in a row but also ended up being out three times which concluded another scoreless inning.

The action ratcheted up in intensity for the seventh inning. With Brenden O’Sullivan pitching and William Watson helping the outfield keep out two Folsom players, Delta took the advantage as Folsom failed to catch the ball. Dominic Rodriguez was

able to make two bases as it happened. Delta had the lead and were winning 6-5.

The eighth inning unfortunately hit Delta with a low blow. Individual mistakes made by Delta’s field players led to Folsom scoring 2 points

and fell behind 7-6.

Delta tried to give it their all in the ninth inning. Three strikeouts in a row against Delta sealed the game and lost 7-6 at home.

Softball team seek improvement after loss

BY ANDREA RIVERA Staff Writer

On April 4, Delta’s softball team lost to Sacramento City College Panthers 9-5.

Knowing the Panthers’ style from the previous game, sophomore Danyelle Godoy knew “coming out with mental toughness” was going to drive the team from inning to inning.

The Mustangs were off to a rocky start in the first inning after the Panthers scored one

point leading Mustangs coach Jim Fisher to call a timeout and tell his in-field team to “reset and relax.” Overall for sophomore pitcher Madison Nelson, it allowed her to, “just spin the ball and trust my defense.”

At the bottom of the first inning, freshman Caitlynn Campball started the Mustangs off with an electrifying hit down the third base line and stealing two bases. Sophomore Alle Perea hit the ball to left field allowing Campball to run home and score the Mus-

tangs’ first run.

Then came freshman Morgan Grupe with a swift walk to first base leaving Perea on second, followed by sophomore Dessa Zavala blasting the ball in the air right field and falling to the ground due to an error by the Panthers. With the bases full, sophomore Sydney Featherston swept in with a beautiful double to the center-left field, bringing in her three fellow teammates and ending the first inning 4-1 Mustangs. By the third inning, the

Panthers were able to jump back into the game with three runs tying the score 4-4.

“I just tell everybody, ‘Hey let’s just relax, take a breath and just look at each other and rely on each other,’” said Campball on how she helps buckle the team down from behind the plate as the team’s leading catcher and tense third inning.

The Mustangs paved more by the bottom of the fourth inning with Godoy hitting a clean single to left field. Freshman Cheyenne Torrez contin-

ued the streak hitting a successful single right by the Panthers’ shortstop. Campball with great veracity was able to drive Godoy in with a swift double to center field on another error made by the Panthers, ending the inning 5-4 Mustangs.

Slowly the winds shifted and energy from the Panthers escalated, allowing them to score in the last two innings and ending the game 9-5 Panthers. Although a loss the Mustangs saw much improvement as a team with a solid effort.

Left: Hitter Brenden O’Sullivan goes for a hit on the box. Bottom right: Pitcher William Watson goes for a pitch from the mound. Top right: The baseball team and staff walk on-field to form a huddle after their loss to Folsom Lake on March 30. PHOTOS BY BRYAN RAMOS

Left: Pitcher Madison Nelson goes for a pitch from the mound. Above: Hitter Sydney Featherson attempts to hit the ball from the home base PHOTOS BY ANDREA RIVERA

AAPI Heritage Month celebration hosted on campus

BY ZANIEL WALDO Staff Writer

The Faculty Caucus of Asian Pacific Equity hosted its Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration on April 1.

The event aimed to recognize and celebrate diversity in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander American communities to elevate voices, increase visibility and support students in pursuing cultural pride.

Matthew Romano, a performer of the Kababyan Club from Bear Creek High School, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s success and the opportunity to perform in front of a large crowd.

“I think it’s very significant to have Asian community performances and all these clubs from different parts of Stockton perform. I hope everyone that came to watch the shows learned more about all the different cultures that performed, and that staff put together these type of events more often as well because there’s a lot more clubs around Stockton and around all these schools that would like to perform in front of these large groups of people,” Romano said.

The AAPI Heritage Celebration is an event where students, families and community members are invited to learn about the various cultures through the art of dance.

Dustin Tsai, Associate Professor of Geography at Delta, was optimistic about the learning experience the event offered for attendees.

“I think that they learn that Asians are not a singular monolithic group, but we’re actually super diverse. Because oftentimes, it’s been happening for such a long time where at least in higher ed, they always talk about Asian students as one big block. My main takeaway is it shows you how even all the different Asian cultures are all quite different, and to really recognize that so we don’t view Asian students and Asian Americans as just a singular identity because they’re really not,” Tsai said.

Fifteen groups performed at the Tillie Lewis Theatre.

The Stockton Bukkyo Taiko group, Red Phoenix Rising Theater, The Punjabi Junction, Thien Quang Lion Dance Team, Bear Creek’s Kababyan and Hmong Clubs, Edison High School’s K-Pop Club, Lincoln Polynesian, Sac Mod-

ern, TOP FIVE, and Delta’s EPIC Dance Team, Japanese Chinese Korean Club, Kapwa Club, Vietnamese Club and Thai Lao Cambodian Club. Routines varied in style from traditional routines incorporating cultural music and dance to modern routines utilizing HipHop and K-Pop music and dancing styles.

Mafae Yunon-Belasco, Marketing Director of Filipino American National Historical Society and the emcee of the

celebration, conveyed the significance of celebration events like these for the community.

“Being part of the AAPI celebration here at Delta, it really allowed me to witness how amazing Asian American, Pacific Islanders who are also passionate about understanding their culture, their hometowns and expressing it in dance being creative and also music because I know that’s how they share the language of love through performance. The experience of

life learning from others is also a priority for me. Everybody is equal, everybody has something to teach you. And through events like these, it puts a highlight on that perspective. The big takeaway would be the enjoyment, the unity, and the youth being the leaders of today. For me, even if you don’t visit a country, through people, you’re already experiencing it. I love to see the diversity, and I think that’s the biggest celebration we’re doing here today.”

Associated Students fill vacant positions, look to May election

BY NICHOLAS MICHELSEN Entertainment Editor

For the first time since November, the Associated Students of Delta College (ASDC) is almost fully staffed. The ASDC board now has eight of 11 positions filled as of the end of March.

The vacancies were due to “a voluntary resignation with [the] previously appointed officers which was mutually agreed upon,” according to Director of Student Activities Shayla Walker.

“It was difficult. We had to scale some things back while still doing events and still advocating for students, with a limited staff.”

While positions are filled through

the end of the year, Spring elections for 2023-24 are set to be held May 3-4. Students can cast votes online. Election results are set to be announced the day after voting closes, May 5, on the Delta College website.

Applications for candidates are online at bit.ly/asdcelectionsS23. The linked page includes an orientation schedule for those interested in running to get more information. Students are encouraged to apply to any one of the eleven positions, including the roles of President and Vice President.

The deadline to apply is Monday, April 17 by 5 p.m.

Following the sudden loss of a majority of Delta’s student government

last November, the Office of Student Activities began sending emails to the entire student population calling for interested parties to apply in order to fill these vacancies mid-term. A late November email noted there were eight positions available.

The duties of the ASDC are important to campus life. Officers represent the student voice of campus.

Student body government is “responsible for providing student input on College decisions that impact students, including Campus facilities, District policies and procedures, Curriculum, Student equity, and the District budget,” according to the Associated Students of Delta College webpage.

College Hour showcases rhythm, art in the quad

Walker offered praise for the students who have stepped into the roles for the remainder of the year.

“I can’t give these students enough kudos for the work they were able to do, and my colleagues,” Walker said with.

When asked when the new slate of officers are expected to start their terms, Walker said that students begin training to fulfill the elected ASDC positions in June to ensure they are ready for the following semester.

These positions are held for a term of one year before the next Spring elections are held.

GLOZELL: Iconic social media influencer offers advice to audience

continued from PAGE 1

in 2012 opened a whole new world of social media influence for the star.

“I clearly did not know what I was doing,” she said about the viral video where she attempts to swallow an entire spoonful of cinnamon.

GloZell has maintained this curious and joyful attitude throughout her entire online career, opting for clean comedy videos that appeal to a wide audience.

“Let’s just laugh and do something silly,” said the creator about her joyful and fun videos.

Despite her massive success with pursuing clean and family-friendly comedy, the star said that the development of online trends and the evolving state of media has pushed her to make changes in her approach to content creation.

“You evolve, or you’re gone,” said GloZell about the move towards short-form video like TikTok in contrast to the traditional long-form videos that she first made on YouTube.

GOODMAN

“You have to adapt, and go with the flow, or get out,” she said.

The work is worth it to GloZell, who said she has created an inclusive community all while monetizing her content.

“Just like they needed me, I needed them,” GloZell said of her audience.

Delta hosted an event celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander heritage in the Tillie Lewis Theatre on April 1. The event featured Stockton Bukkyo Taiko Drumming, Lincoln’s Polynesian Club and Delta’s EPIC dance team, among others.

PHOTO BY ZANIEL WALDO

Top Left: Jeni Swerdlow and students participating at Drummm event. Top Right: Delta students attending the Drummm event for student hour. Bottom Right: Michelle Rivero, Shelby Smallwood, Samuel Gomez and Sophia Torrice is selling bowls from he art club for the student pantry during College Hour.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA