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e student publication of the San Jacinto College DistrictVol. 24, No. 10 April 21, 2014

SAN JACINTO TIMES

Spring forward: Applausecloses Central’s dance season

Jeannie Peng-Armao San Jacinto College Marketing, Public Relations, and Government Affairs Department

Boardokays

tuitionhike

The San Jacinto College Boardof Trustees approved a tuitionincrease set to take effect at thebeginning of the fall semester.The decision was made at theMarch 31 Board meeting. According to a released state-ment, the College said the in-crease aims to help the schoolsystem provide the best possibleexperience for current andprospective students. “To ensure your degree or cer-tificate from San Jacinto Col-lege remains valuable,” therelease stated, “we must initiateprograms that will help our stu-dents successfully complete andmove on to a university or intothe workforce.” This fall, in-district studentswill see a $6 increase per credithour, resident out-of-district stu-dents $5 and non-resident stu-dents will see an $8 increase inrates. Additionally, the Board ap-proved internal and external feesfor exams related to Credit forPrior Learning (CPL) and an in-crease in the exemption for dualcredit and early college highschool students from 55% to70%. Chancellor Dr. Brenda Hellyersaid, in an email distributed toCollege employees, the dualcredit exemption hopes tostrengthen the College’s com-mitment “to partner with our in-dependent school districts toinstill a college-going cultureand mindset early in the educa-tion process.” The College’s statement indi-cated the rise in tuition rates willnot affect San Jac’s status as oneof the more economical optionsfor higher learning in theGreater Houston area. “It is important for students toknow that San Jacinto Collegetuition and fees,” the statementnoted, “remain lower than themajority of community collegesacross the State of Texas and inthe Gulf Coast region. San Jac-into College continues to be oneof the best values for your edu-cation.” This is the first tuition hikesince 2012. - Bradley Croman contributedto this report

Small blaze erupts on North campus A fire broke out duringthe morning hours ofApril 2 in the Northwestcorner of the San JacintoCollege North CampusVocational TechnologyWelding building. Despite initial reportsthe building was “en-gulfed in flames,” thefire was relatively small,North campus InterimProvost Bill Raffettosaid. No one was in-jured, and damage wasminimal in the short-lived blaze. According to Raffetto,the fire resulted from amalfunction in a largeportable fan. A studentwalking by the buildingsaw flames in the win-dow and alerted first re-sponders. Shortly afterthe fire was extin-guished, crews were on-

scene to assess, clean up,and repair the damage. “Most of the damage isfrom smoke and [fire-fighters’] water,” Raf-fetto said. “[Firstresponders] were herevery quickly to put thefire out…. They did afantastic job.” An SJC Alert, distrib-uted at approximately 7a.m., indicated classeson North campus wouldbe suspended until noonthat day. Shortly there-after, a second Alert an-nounced the fire wasextinguished and every-one should report toNorth campus as regu-larly scheduled. Classes resumed in thewelding building April7.

- Bradley CromanBradley Croman San Jacinto Times

Contrary to initial reports, the April 2 fire caused minimal damage.

Jordan Fuller performs a split leap during rehearsals for the spring dance show.

All SJCcampusesto attendone grad ceremony

Randi CrowderStaff Writer

For the first time, all three SanJacinto College campuses willparticipate in a single graduationceremony at NRG (formerly Re-liant) Stadium. In the past, each campus hostedits own commencement activi-ties at different venues holdingtwo separate ceremonies for stu-dents receiving either academicdegrees or technical certificates. Joanna Zimmermann, StudentServices Interim Vice President,said the purpose of this collabo-ration was to provide a largervenue for graduates and atten-dees. “Over the last several years,San Jacinto College has beenoutgrowing the facilities wherewe have held commencementceremonies,” Zimmermannsaid. “Outgrowing our com-mencement ceremony space is agreat problem to have. Becauseof this, the College felt it wasthe right time to begin lookingat combining the ceremoniesinto one.” At previous ceremonies, thenumber of guests allowed to at-tend was limited, South CampusDean of Enrollment ServicesKerry Mix said. “Commencement is the mosttime that we can show studentswe appreciate the time, energy,and effort they have given intheir academic studies,” Mixsaid. “In the past we’ve had totell students you can only bringthree to five guests and we wantto be able to say that whoeveryou want to come to com-mencement to see you shouldn’tbe limited.” Last year, for the first time inthe College’s history, more than5,000 students graduated fromSan Jac, Zimmermann said. “This shows that we are grad-uating more students each year,and we wanted to make sure thateach student’s family has an op-portunity to see them walkacross the stage and receivetheir college diploma,” Zimmer-mann said.

See Graduation on Page 4

South library nears completion San Jac expands RN program Brandon PeñaStaff Writer

The Parker Williams Library atSan Jacinto College South Cam-pus is nearing completion of ren-ovations that will give the facilityan updated look. South campus Reference Librar-ian Jane Stimpson said the reno-vations began May, 2013. “They’re really close to beingdone. Right now, it looks like allthey’re doing is mostly cosmeticwork,” Stimpson said. Along with the addition of brightand colorful design elements,Stimpson said the library ex-panded in several ways. “One of the great things is nowwe have more study rooms,”Stimpson said. “Previously wehad about, maybe, seven studyrooms and they were really small.Most of them could only fit about

one or two people.” Now, Stimpson said the libraryhas about a dozen study roomsthat can accommodate up to sixpeople, in addition to new spacesdedicated to student instruction. “One of the things I’m happiestabout is we have a new libraryclassroom,” Stimpson said. According to Stimpson, the oldclassroom used for teaching stu-dents how to conduct researchwas just a room with chairs. “But now we have this nice newroom,” Stimpson said. “It hascomputers for everybody. There’slots of natural light in it, so it’s areally nice classroom space.” Moreover, South campus LibraryDirector Richard McKay said theupdates should accommodate stu-dents’ needs into the foreseeablefuture. “We’re already seeing lots morestudents in the building than we

did before the renovation,”McKay said. “The project was acomplete success, and I couldn’tbe happier with the results.” However, South campus’s libraryis not the only one undergoing amakeover. “Central had a much more ex-tensive renovation than we did,”Stimpson said. “We have stayedin this building while it’s beenrenovated. The Central campushad to move totally out of theirbuilding.” Central campus’s Lee Davis Li-brary was relocated to the secondfloor of the Frels Building duringconstruction. Head of Public Services for LeeDavis Library John Brower said,“The renovation is almost com-plete. We anticipate reopening onJune 2.”

See Library on Page 4

Robert Harris Jr.Staff Writer

San Jacinto College North Cam-pus will begin a new ADN-RNprogram in the fall semester as anextension of Central campus’s ex-isting program. ADN-RN, an acronym for Asso-ciate Degree Nursing-RegisteredNursing, is a program offeringgraduates entry into the nursingprofession as a Registered Nurse. Vocational Nursing DepartmentDirector Rhonda Bell said, “TheNorth Campus has never had anADN-RN Program. We have hadthe Vocational Nursing Programsince 1974.” Furthermore, she said the pro-gram will help alleviate the nurs-ing shortage in the area whileproviding “quality care for a di-verse population.” The commu-nity voiced an interest in creating

such a program several years agoand San Jac worked to get itgoing, Bell added. “Once the various approvals

(were given) by the Texas Boardof Nursing, The Texas Higher Ed-ucation Coordinating Board, andour Board of Trustees,” she said,“the program leaders began to fi-nalize the information and planfor the implementation.” Meanwhile, Bell said the pro-gram encourages students pursu-ing a nursing career to, “succeedwith perseverance, purpose, andpassion.” “We believe that success is pos-sible with perseverance; the abil-ity to keep going even when thegoing gets tough,” Bell said. “Asense of purpose: nursing is a no-table profession whereby we havea positive effect on so many peo-ple…. Passion is what we love todo, so we continue to press for ex-

cellence.” Moreover, Bell said the additionof the program offers health sci-ence students more educationaland career options. “The students, who are currentlyenrolled in a degree plan for nurs-ing and are completing the pre-requisites, will now have theopportunity to apply to the RNprogram and continue their edu-cation at San Jac,” Bell said. Serita Dickey, Dean of NaturalSciences, said the program will bethe “crown jewel” of North cam-pus’s health science offerings. “I am so excited for our commu-nity and future students to be ableto meet their educational and ca-reer goals by attending the NorthCampus.” “I cannot wait for the first classto be accepted and seated,”Dickey said. “It will be a veryemotional day for me.”

Opinion/CommentaryApril 21, 2014 San Jacinto Times Page 2

The San Jacinto Times is publishedfive times a semester by the journalismstudents at San Jacinto College Central,8060 Spencer Highway, Pasadena, TX77505. Opinions expressed herein are those ofthe writer and not necessarily those ofthe staff, its adviser, the administrationor the Board of Regents.The Times encourages letters to theeditor. Letters must be in good taste, ac-curate, free from libel, malice or personalcontroversy. Letters must be limited to200 words in length. Letters submitted

without the author’s signature will not beaccepted. The staff reserves the right toedit the letters for accuracy without alter-ing the general meaning.Letters can be e-mailed to Hellen.Pa-padacos@sjcd.edu. Letters must includename and phone number for verification.The digital edition of the Times is avail-able at http://issuu.com/sanjacintotimes.Advertising space is available for $5.00per column inch. Special rates are avail-able. For news tips and information onadvertising, contact the Times at 281-478-2752.

PRODUCTION MANAGERSara Quintana

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFAlexis DavlinSan Jacinto

TimesSan Jacinto College Student Publications

DEPARTMENT EDITORSEfren DiosdadoKeili Harrison

Giovann Rosales

STAFF WRITERSBradley CromanRandi CrowderRobert Harris Jr.Osiris HernandezSavannah JacksonStephanie JonesHannah KingMichael LeedyBrandon PeñaKrystina SalazarRachel SmithEmily Wolfe

ADVISER Hellen Papadacos

CIRCULATION MANAGERMax Estudillo

PAGE DESIGNERSSara Quintana

ADVERTISINGSara Quintana

Ef goes ‘round town: Ra Sushi still a place to dress and impress

Efren Diosdado Department Editor

Having a hard time finding a placeto take your date where the food isjust as good as the atmosphere? RASushi is the place to go. From the moment you pull up,

you’re greeted by complimentaryvalet parking. You walk in thefoyer and a staircase takes you tothe second floor where the actualrestaurant is. Walking up the stairs,you are welcomed by an orientalpainting and contemporary decorwith a strong black and red themeresonating through the wholeplace. The restaurant consists of threesections, the sushi bar, the dine-insection, and an open bar. Whereyou decide to sit depends on thetype of date you’re looking to have. If you want to have a nice lunch,I recommend dining in, but ifyou’re looking to enjoy a fewdrinks and socialize for a while,then I recommend sitting in the bar

area. One of the reasons I like RA is thewide variety of sushi they offer.Their menu consists of traditionalsushi dishes as well as their ownsignature dishes. I recently went with a date and weenjoyed ourselves. As an appetizerwe ordered their signature lobsterspring rolls; a lightly fried mix oflobster, mango, cream cheese, andmild peppers wrapped in wontonpaper. They are served with mangosauce and are very delicious. Then came the Viva Las VegasRoll; a lightly tempura-batteredkani kama crab and cream cheesemixture rolled in rice and seaweed,topped with spicy tuna, kani kamacrab mix and sliced lotus root, and

finished with a sweet eel sauce andspinach tempura bits. For dessert we had fried bananawith Kahlua, a chocolate-stuffedfried banana with Kahlua caramelsauce and chocolate gelato. The food was delicious but, unfor-tunately, the service was mediocrethis time. I would also recommend avoidingweekend evenings when the wait-ing list can get a little backed up.The last time I went on a weekend,I waited for an hour and a half. All in all, I would say you will getout of the experience what mostpeople are looking for on a date; anice looking restaurant to impressyour companion with the quality offood to match.

Keili HarrisonDepartment Editor

For a split second, the Earth (cityof Houston) stood still. The starsaligned and placed their goodgraces upon the fallen city. In thatspecial moment, everything wasjust, and Houstonians’ minds wereat peace. The Houston Astros were, by

some miracle, undefeated. A few days after Major LeagueBaseball’s Opening Day, the starsmoved about the universe to theirrespective sites bringing the unde-sired, but not unexpected, sense ofloss back to the defeated town. Professional sports in Houston arenotorious for raising the hopes oftheir beloved fans, then painstak-ingly crushing championshipdreams. For example, the Texanskicked off the 2013 season with a2-0 record. Critics raved about theiroverpowering defense and how itcould pave the way for playoffs,and ultimately, the Super Bowl. However, losses began to build upas the 2-14 Texans slowly (butsurely) ripped the roused red, win-ning white and boisterous blue outof the fans’ hearts. The Astros, like the Texans, were

not known for a winning record,rather as their League’s worst team. During the 2013 season, the Astroscompeted in 162 games, 51 ofwhich they were victorious. Thisranked as the most losses for anyMLB team since 2004. However, on Opening Day, 2014,the playing field proved even as theAstros battled the New York Yan-kees. Coming off three-straight 100loss seasons, the Houston team setout to prove they were more thanjust a “has been” franchise trying toswing a bat. The Astros beat theYankees in the three game series 2-1. Upon that victory, excitement forthe 2014 season flew through theretractable roof. Yes, the HoustonAstros won a series; something thatcannot be frequently verbalized. To be an Astros fan, a little fun has

to be made here and there to makethe dreadful season ahead not so…well, dreadful. Even Mattress Mac is betting

against the home team! The GalleryFurniture owner promised the first500 customers, spending $6300 ormore at his store, a full refund if theAstros win 63 games this season.That’s a mere 10 more would-bewins than last season’s recordbreaker. Can it be done? The 500 cus-

tomers sure hope so. But when tak-ing into account the fact that theAstros haven’t won more than 63games since 2010, it seems highlyunlikely. Despite my obvious skepticism, Ibid good luck to the Astros… andto the wide-eyed believers blowing$6300 of their hard earned cash foran improbable outcome.

With the hot summer rolling in and classes sim-mering down at San Jacinto College, studentscouldn’t be more excited. Everyone is thinking of finally having a breakmaking it hard to think about continuing schoolthrough the summer months. So why do it? A few students at South campus had excellentadvice regarding the importance of taking sum-mer classes; as do I being a current San Jac stu-dent myself. My first year in school was a struggle and thefollowing summer, I didn’t register for classes asa few of my friends did. This past summer, I tooka chance by taking Biology I and II in the sum-mer sessions for 10 weeks. I know… Crazy! But I passed both with As. Itwas tough I will admit, but I couldn’t have beenhappier when it was over and done with. When you take classes during the regular se-mester, you have more days to slack off and for-get the information that you learned just a fewdays earlier. Most of the classes we take are twodays a week. For me, there is way too much timein between each meeting and I either forget theinformation, or put off doing the work. Summer classes usually meet four times a weekwith more hours of class every day. This doesn’tsound fun for summer, but it will help you grad-uate sooner. Surprisingly, some students said theyare more likely to pass a summer class than aclass during the regular semester. San Jac student Micah Askins said summer

classes are much easier than regular semesterclasses. “I will never have an empty summer until I

graduate,” Askins said. “Summer classes are eas-ier and I find it a waste of my time by not takingthem and getting ahead. Why would anyone wantto stay in school longer than they have to?” Fellow student, Martin Adjovu, said up untilnow, he was afraid to take summer classes but heregistered for the 2014 sessions ready to take onthe challenge. “I am a little worried about the summer

classes,” Adjovu said, “but from what I hear, it’sbetter to take them during that time because it’squick and it will be less to take during the regularsemester.” Summer classes might be intimidating, but ifyou really stick with it and stay organized youwill not regret it. I never thought I would passboth biology classes during the summer sessionsbecause I dropped one of them during the long16-week semester. But shorter summer courseshelp students retain information and stay on topof their studies because they attend class daily. It’s up to each individual as to whether or not totake advantage of summer and get ahead.Doesn’t everyone want to get out of school asfast as possible?

Alexis DavlinEditor-in-chief

Keili’s Korner : Mattress Mac calling on Astros to ‘save you money’

Davlin’s tips:summer

classes key to fast track

Giovann RosalesDepartment Editor

I raised my glass of wine in theair and repeated after the paintinginstructor, “I am an artist. I ambeautiful!” I signed up for a painting class atPinot’s Palette.

I walked in lacking confidence. Ihave always been terrible at draw-ing and painting. My illustrationsof people look like the drawing ofa five-year-old. I draw sticks forarms and legs, circles for heads,squares for the male body, and tri-angles for the female body. I was very uneasy at the thoughtof painting, but with the instruc-tor’s words of encouragement, Igained assurance. I dipped mypaintbrush in the color palette, andaway I painted! Pinot’s Palette (previously knownas Pinot and Picasso) started withone location in the Montrose areaof Houston in 2009. Since then,they have expanded coast to coastand now operate six locations inHouston.

Pinot’s Palette is no ordinarypainting class. Participants are en-couraged to bring along wine andsnacks. Their goal is teach paintingwhile students enjoy a good time. According to their website, thecompany’s mission “is to bringfine art to the masses in a fun way,and to teach our painters the magicof creating their own masterpieces!So come paint. Drink. Have Fun.” I was able to convince my Satur-day night barhopping cousin totrade in her six-inch stilettos for asix-inch paintbrush. Karen Perezwas happy with her first experi-ence at Pinot’s Palette. “I loved it,” she said. “I was

thinking ‘paint and wine soundboring’ but I had so much fun, andI am going to sign up for another

class. I don’t mind doing this in-stead of going out all the time. It’sdifferent and I still get to have mywine.” For three hours my ears rang withthe sounds of music and laughter;the crisp taste of wine refreshedmy mouth; my fingers were ac-quainted with paintbrushes and myeyes were enamored with the fu-sion of colors that brought to lifeJapanese Moonlight. I painted, drank wine, and had somuch fun. For a moment, I evenfelt like I could be as great as PabloPicasso! I certainly am no Picasso,but I left Pinot’s Palette with anewly found affection for painting. Most importantly, I left remindingmyself, “I am an artist. I am beau-tiful!”

Giovann’s quest for mind cultivation: painting at Pinot’s offers alternative to night out

Visit our new website!www.SanJacTimes.com

Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/SanJacintoTimes

Bradley CromanStaff Writer

After 9/11, anti-Islamic hate crimes roseover 1600 percent in the United States.Once among the least reported victims ofsuch violence, according to the FBI, Mus-lims are now the second-most targetedgroup in religion-based incidents follow-ing anti-Semitic crimes.

Social justice comedi-enne Negin Farsadshared her plan to com-bat negative stereo-types associated withMuslims in “FightingIslamophobia & WhatHave You with Com-edy: Notes from anIconless American,”presented April 7 at theMarie SpenceFlickinger Fine ArtsCenter at San JacintoCollege South Campus. Farsad’s presentation

was equal parts com-edy and inspiration,using humor and per-sonal anecdotes todrive home the mes-sage that the time hascome to change theway Americans thinkabout Muslims and theMiddle East. She encouraged atten-dees to step outsidetheir comfort zones andmake small gestures ofhumanity towardsthose from differentbackgrounds. “It’s the small ges-

tures that will do somuch,” Farsad said. "Ifwe can make thosesmall gestures on an in-dividual level, we can

make a large community impact." The comedienne did not hold much back.She candidly discussed growing up, herfamily, and her dating life. Farsad said she believes sharing personalstories with others is how bridges can bebuilt between cultures. “People need to hear your stories and an-ecdotes. That’s how people will learn

about your culture… And comedy can bea tool,” Farsad said. She also discussed her recent film projecttitled “The Muslims Are Coming!” In themovie, Farsad, alongside a troupe of fel-low Muslim comedians, tours the heart-land of America performing stand-upshows and interacting with Middle Amer-ican communities. In the film, the cast gave small town

Americans the opportunity to “Ask aMuslim,” and even “Hug a Muslim,” in aneffort to open dialogue between peoplefrom different backgrounds, and clear theair regarding the misconceptions Ameri-cans have about Muslims. The event was hosted by the South cam-pus Lyceum Committee. Larry Gainor, South campus Reference

Librarian and Committee member, recom-mended Farsad as a speaker. “[She uses]substantive comedy to entertain [and] gether message across,” Gainor said. Fellow Committee member Doug Greensaid they were excited to bring Farsad inbecause, “her show is very topical… Itconcerns a lot of people. [And] being a co-median, she draws a lot of people in.” San Jac student, Jose Guzman, said he

“loved the show,” and added aboutFarsad, “She was concise and extremelyfunny.” Dual credit student Islam Mizyed agreedwith Guzman, and added he appreciatedthe way Farsad, “spoke her mind, and en-couraged others to be open minded.” Recently named one of The Huffington

Post’s 50 Funniest Women, Farsad has en-joyed a meteoric rise with her specialbrand of social justice comedy. Her otherfeature works include “The Israeli-Pales-tinian Conflict: A Romantic Comedy,”“Bootleg Islam,” and, “Nerdcore Rising.”She also recently released a series ofvideos investigating the banking industry,including off-shore banking, bankerbonuses, and JPMorgan President andCEO Jamie Dimon.

Lifestyle & EntertainmentApril 21, 2014 San Jacinto Times Page 3

Hannah KingStaff Writer

San Jacinto College Central Cam-pus’s dance department is presentingApplause, this year’s annual springshow featuring the talents of 75 stu-dent participants. Department Chair for Physical Edu-cation and Dance Sandi Morgan saidthe spring show has been a part of SanJac for 35 years. It showcases thedance program and the work studentsand faculty put in during the semester. San Jac alumna and adjunct dance

instructor Taylor Reyna said she hasperformed in past shows but is cur-rently serving a third term as theshow’s director. According to Reyna,the show’s finale is a number choreo-graphed to Lady Gaga’s song “Ap-plause.” “I love the song, the rhythm, the

tempo, and everything. I just had toname the whole show Applause,”Reyna said. Furthermore, Reyna said the song

lyrics echo the sentiment of perform-ers and dancers. “Applause speaks true to every per-former’s passion,” she said. “You’reon stage. You literally are living tohear praise, the applause, the grati-tude, and people being proud of whatyou’re doing. They can’t verbalize itso they have to applaud.” In addition to performing, Reyna

said the show gives students an op-portunity to choreograph. Freshmanstudent choreographer Juanita Alaniscreated a jazzy burlesque-type num-ber to Beyonce’s “Who Run theWorld." “I’m very excited for the show be-

cause this would be the very firstthing that I actually choreographedwith my name on it and that’s what I

really want to do with my life,” Ala-nis said. “It’s an awesome opportu-nity and if students want to do it, thenthey should definitely take advantageof it. It’s a good way to show your po-tential, and to learn and grow.” The show takes all semester to put

together. Reyna said students and fac-ulty work “from the first day of classin January, until show time on the lastday.” “I’m excited for the show; always

excited. I’ve never been the nervouskind. I’m excited because I used to bethe performer, and now I’m the direc-tor. So it’s neat to see it from a differ-ent perspective,” Reyna said. In addition, Reyna choreographed ahip-hop dance to “Ain’t Nobody GotTime for That” by Blush. “The firsttime I heard it on the radio I juststarted shaking my body, and I knewinstantly that I had to choreograph toit. So, I’m really excited to see thatone,” she said. Meanwhile, Reyna said as the per-

formance date approaches, studentsare becoming more and more excited. “You can see it in their faces, and

you can tell that they’re dedicated.They come to practices outside ofclass time, which is really what it’s allabout,” Reyna said. In addition to showcasing their loveof dance, Reyna said it’s a good wayto end the school year. “Why not put on a spring show?”

Reyna asked. “I mean, if you look atthe school and final exams, this is justhow dance performers take our finalexam, per say, in the college realm ofit.”

Applause will be performed April24, and 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Slo-comb Auditorium. Admission is a $5donation to the dance scholarshipfund.

Dance Dept endsyear with Applause

Comedienne brings laughter, social justice campaign to South campus

Bradley Croman San Jacinto TimesNegin Farsad uses laughter to combat stereotypes.

From the cover & moreApril 21, 2014 San Jacinto Times Page 4

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Where fast-tracking career goals lines up with

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• Students can transfer anytime• Financial aid and scholarships• Flexible one-course-per-month class schedule• 120 online degree programs

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11:09 AM

Final Exam ScheduleSpring 2014

16-week classesCLASSES THAT

MEETEXAM DAY EXAM TIME

7:00 a.m. MWF8:05 a.m. MWF9:10 a.m. MWF10:15 a.m. MWF11:20 a.m. MWF12:25 p.m. MWF1:30 p.m. MWF2:35 p.m. MWF3:40 p.m. MWF

7:00 a.m. TR8:35 a.m. TR10:10 a.m. TR11:45 a.m. TR1:20 p.m. TR2:55 p.m. TR4:30 p.m. TR6:00 p.m. TR6:30 p.m. TR7:35 p.m. TR8:05 p.m. TR

7:00 a.m. MW8:35 a.m. MW10:10 a.m. MW11:45 a.m. MW1:20 p.m. MW2:55 p.m. MW4:30 p.m. MW6:00 p.m. MW6:30 p.m. MW7:35 p.m. MW8:05 p.m. MW

Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7

Thursday, May 8 Tuesday, May 6 Thursday, May 8 Tuesday, May 6 Thursday, May 8 Tuesday, May 6 Thursday, May 8 Tuesday, May 6 Tuesday, May 6 Thursday, May 8Thursday, May 8

Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Monday, May 5 Monday, May 5 Wednesday, May 7Wednesday, May 7

7:00 - 9:00 a.m.8:05 - 10:05 a.m.9:10 - 11:10 a.m.10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.11:20 a.m. - 1:20 p.m.12:25 - 2:25 p.m.1:30 - 3:30 p.m.2:35 - 4:35 p.m.3:40 - 5:40 p.m.

7:00 - 9:00 a.m.8:35 - 10:35 a.m.10:10 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.11:45 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.1:20 - 3:20 p.m.2:55 - 4:55 p.m.4:30 - 6:30 p.m.6:00 - 8:00 p.m.6:30 - 8:30 p.m.7:35 - 9:35 p.m.8:00 - 10:00 p.m.

7:00 - 9:00 a.m.8:35 - 10:35 a.m.10:10 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.11:45 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.1:20 - 3:20 p.m.2:55 - 4:55 p.m.4:30 - 6:30 p.m.6:00 - 8:00 p.m.6:30 - 8:30 p.m.7:35 - 9:35 p.m.8:00 - 10:00 p.m.

“This is a great accomplishment, and somethingthat we know our students’ families are proud of.” Central campus Dean of Enrollment Services

Kevin McKisson said he expects a greater partici-pant turn-out than in the past. “With all three campuses participating and the en-ergy that we all bring to the event it should be thebiggest event of the year,” McKisson said. “I be-lieve it showcases the entire college and the vastnumber of programs that we offer. It also supportsthe fact that we are one college.” Enrollment services at each campus have a differ-ent role in the organization of the ceremony, Mixsaid. “People thought that enrollment services wouldn’t

want to put such a big task together, but we’re re-ally, really excited about it,” Mix said. “Everyonehas been very positive about putting it together.” Mix said bringing all three campuses together for

one commencement will allow graduation to bemore ceremonious and will promote a better feeland a greater atmosphere. “A single commencement ceremony for San Jac-

into College brings the College community to-gether for a brief period of time to celebrate thesuccesses of our students,” Zimmermann said.“The commencement ceremony is really all aboutcelebrating our students, and I am looking forwardto seeing them all earn their certificate or degree.” Going forward, combined ceremonies will be heldfor both May and December commencements, Mixsaid.

Spring commencement for the San Jacinto Col-lege District is scheduled for Saturday, May 10 at2 pm.

GraduationContinued from Page 1

Meanwhile, Jan Crenshaw,the director for North cam-pus’s Edwin E. Lehr Librarysaid their facility will not berenovated because they arescheduled to receive a brandnew building. “This building was built on

top of an aquifer and is very,very slowly breaking up,”Crenshaw said. “It was de-cided that it would be wiserto build a new, smaller build-ing instead.”

Crenshaw said the newbuilding will be located atthe juncture between theNorth campus WelcomeCenter and the BrightwellTechnical building. “The College’s Board has

just approved the plan for thebuilding and the rest of theyear will be dedicated to de-termining the interior, fur-nishings, and the maximumcost,” Crenshaw said. “Theresult of this work will be

submitted to the Board forapproval in either Febru-ary or March, 2015.” In addition to wrapping

up the renovations, theParker William’s Librarystaff is set to partner, for thesecond year, with Southcampus’s Office of StudentLife and First Year Experi-ence for a Finals Week event. South campus First Year

Experience CoordinatorHolly Williams said BLASTOff! To Finals began, “…asa way to help promotehealthy study habits for stu-dents preparing for finalexams.” This year, Williams said,

BLAST stands for “Buttons,Lollipops, Activities,Snacks, and Touch.” DuringFinals Week, students cancreate buttons, participate instress-relieving activities,and snack on candy andchips, Williams said.

BLAST Off! To Finals willtake place daily from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m., April 28 throughMay 1, in the ParkerWilliams Library.

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Around CampusApril 21, 2014 San Jacinto Times Page 5

8 DAYS A WEEK8 DAYS A WEEK

Monday, April 21• Tennis Club Meeting, 2:30 p.m., Tennis Courts

• Mixed Martial Arts Meeting, 8:30 p.m., Gym

Tuesday, April 22• Student Bible Fellowship, 12 p.m., S6.196

• Anime Club Meeting, 2 p.m., S10.214

• Game Enterprise Guild, 3:30 p.m., S8.1062

• ESOL Meeting, 4 p.m., S8.1006

• ProMusica Meeting, 4:15 p.m., S15.115

• Student Awards Ceremony, 6 p.m., S11.250

Wednesday, April 23• Earth Day Event, 9 a.m. & 4:30 p.m., Student

Center Atrium

• PBL Meeting, 1:30 p.m., S8.2014

• Gay-Straight Alliance Meeting, 2:30 p.m., S7.246

• Anime Club Meeting, 3 p.m., S10.214

• Coyote Future Teacher’s Club Meeting, 3 p.m.,

S6.196

• Writer’s Block Meeting, 3:30 p.m., S9.214

• Movie Night, 5:30 p.m., S1.115

Thursday, April 24• Game Enterprise Guild, 3:30 p.m., S8.1062

Friday, April 25• Mixed Martial Arts Meeting, 10 a.m., Gym

Saturday, April 26• NTHS Garage Sale, 8 a.m., Parking Lot 9A

Sunday, April 27• No Scheduled Activities

Monday, April 21• Psychology Club Meeting, 12 p.m., C3.209

Tuesday, April 22• SVA Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Student Center 212 A/B

• Yoga Club Master Class, 1:20 p.m., Anders Gym

• MaPhix Meeting, 1:30 p.m., C20.3-331

• Blood Drive, 9 a.m., Student Center, Lounge A

Wednesday, April 23• Get Lit, 9 a.m., Student Center

• Blood Drive, 9 a.m., Student Center, Lounge A

Thursday, April 24• Gay-Straight Alliance Meeting, 3 p.m.,

Raven Café

• Webb Society Speaker, 8 a.m., Ballroom

• Creative Writers Meeting, 1:30 p.m., C4.216

Friday, April 25• SGA Meeting, 11:30 a.m., C1.155

• TACHE Dance, 7 p.m., Ballroom

Saturday, April 26• Gaming Society Meeting, 10 a.m., C14 Lobby

Sunday, April 27• No Scheduled Activities

Monday, April 21• SGA Meeting, 3:30 p.m., N12.215

Tuesday, April 22• Men of Honor Meeting, 12 p.m., N10.128

• SJCN Jazz Band Performance, 7:30 p.m., N1.103

Wednesday, April 23• Ladies of Integrity Meeting, 12 p.m., N6.108

Thursday, April 24• New Student Orientation, 8:30 a.m., N1.103

• Anime Club Meeting, 2 p.m., N9.140

• New Student Orientation, 5:30 p.m., N1.103

Friday, April 25• Gay-Straight Alliance Meeting, 12 p.m., N13.208

• Math & Engineering Club Meeting, 1:30 p.m.,

N8.201

Saturday, April 26• No Scheduled Activities

Sunday, April 27• No Scheduled Activities

N o r t h

S o u t h

C e n t r a l

8 DAYS A WEEK8 DAYS A WEEK

Monday, April 28• Tennis Club Meeting, 2:30 p.m., Tennis Courts

• Mixed Martial Arts Meeting, 8:30 p.m., Gym

Tuesday, April 29• Student Bible Fellowship, 12 p.m., S6.196

• Anime Club Meeting, 2 p.m., S10.214

• Game Enterprise Guild, 3:30 p.m., S8.1062

• ProMusica Meeting, 4:15 p.m., S15.115

Wednesday, April 30• SPTA Meeting, 11 a.m., S1.217

• Gay-Straight Alliance Meeting, 2:30 p.m., S7.246

• Anime Club Meeting, 3 p.m., S10.214

• PBL Meeting, 3 p.m., S8.2014

• Writer’s Block Meeting, 3:30 p.m., S9.214

Thursday, May 1• African American Association Meeting, 12 p.m.,

S11.111

• Student Veterans Association Meeting,

2:30 p.m., S8.2066

• Game Enterprise Guild, 3:30 p.m., S8.1062

• 17 and Under Tennis Club Meeting, 3:30 p.m.,

Tennis Courts

Friday, May 2• Mixed Martial Arts Meeting, 10 a.m., Gym

• Auto Body Club Meeting, 11 a.m., S14.102B

• Phi Theta Kappa Meeting, 1 p.m., S8.1010

Saturday, May 3• No Scheduled Activities

Sunday, May 4• No Scheduled Activities

Monday, April 28• Psychology Club Meeting, 12 p.m., C3.209

• Surgical Tech Fundraiser, 1 p.m., Student Center

Tuesday, April 29• MaPhix Meeting, 1:30 p.m., C20.3-331

Wednesday, April 30• Student Veterans Association Meeting,

3:30 p.m., Student Center 212 A/B

• Student Awards Ceremony, 6 p.m.,

Student Center Ballroom

Thursday, May 1• Gay-Straight Alliance Meeting, 3 p.m.,

Raven Café

Friday, May 2• Relay for Life, 7 p.m., Campus Track

Saturday, May 3• Gaming Society Meeting, 10 a.m., Student

Center

Sunday, May 4• No Scheduled Activities

Monday, April 28• No Scheduled Activities

Tuesday, April 29• Houston Fire Department Employment

Recruiter, 11 a.m., N12 Lobby

• Men of Honor Meeting, 12 p.m., N10.128

• Psychology Club Meeting, 2 p.m., N7.164

Wednesday, April 30• Psychology Club Meeting, 2 p.m., N7.164

Thursday, May 1• Webb Society Meeting, 1 p.m., N7.164

Friday, May 2• Math & Engineering Club Meeting, 1:30 p.m.,

N8.201

Saturday, May 3• No Scheduled Activities

Sunday, May 4• No Scheduled Activities

N o r t h

S o u t h

C e n t r a l

Emily WolfeStaff Writer

History Professor MarcusTurner is leading this year’sevents celebrating Texas HistoryMonth at San Jacinto CollegeCentral Campus. “I think every state takes pride

in its history and I think, particu-larly, Texans take pride in theirhistory,” Turner said. Texas History Month kicks off

April 1 with Larry Spasic, direc-tor of the San Jacinto Museum,who will speak to Central campusstudents about the history of theSan Jacinto Monument. “If you grow up in this region,

especially this area, you probablymake a trip to the monument infourth grade or in seventh gradeTexas History [class],” Turnersaid. “It really fits into greaterconversations I have with myclasses about the nature of historyand how we choose to rememberhistorical events. It’s a very im-portant monument.” In addition, Texas State Univer-sity at San Marcos professor, Dr.Frank de la Teja, is scheduled to

speak April 14 at a presentationabout the Texas Revolution. “It was very important to show

the Tejano perspective of theRevolution, which often timesgets lost in the history of theState,” Turner said. “Tejanosfought and died at the Alamo. Te-janos fought at San Jacinto. Te-janos signed the [Texas]Declaration of Independence. Sowe felt like their story should betold.” Furthermore, Dwayne Jones, Di-rector of the Galveston HistoricalFoundation will speak April 24about the Great Storm of 1900. Texas History Month events willconclude with the San JacintoDay Festival. The Festival, whichincludes a battle reenactment, isan event for which many San Jacstudents from all three campusesvolunteer. Director of the Honors ProgramEddie Weller said, in addition toHonors students, other campusorganizations take part. Weller said, “… Members of theWalter Prescott Webb Society(history club on the three cam-puses), students involved with

service learning through their his-tory and government classes, andupper level Clear Horizon EarlyCollege High School (CHECHS)all participate.” Weller said while San Jac stu-

dents will not be involved in thereenactment, they “do nearlyeverything else needed for anevent attended by 15,000 - 20,000people.” “We do the set up on Friday be-fore the Saturday celebration,”Weller said, “and the tear downwhen it is completed. We staff thelarge children's craft area and thechildren's ‘bone dig.’ We run allthe information booths. We rideall of the busses used to bring thevisitors in and out of the park giv-ing them information about theevent.” Meanwhile, Turner said every

state should recognize and have“an understanding of the historyof that state or region.” “I just think that [it] just goes tothe nature of history, anyways;”Turner said, “why we study his-tory, who we are, how we gothere, where we go forward, howwe go forward.”

Texas History Monthcomes to Central campus

Michael LeedyStaff Writer

A group of San Jacinto College Honors Programstudents will travel to Paris May 11 for a six-nightstay in the City of Lights. Honors Program Coordinator of South campus

Dr. Katy Rudisill said Paris is the chosen destina-tion because it offers “a rich and unique culturaland historical experience.” According to Rudisill, the trip is nothing like anypackaged tour and will be a one of a kind experi-ence meant to immerse students in Parisian culture.Throughout the semester, the students met outsideof regular classes to study European history andprepare themselves for an in-depth understandingof the city and its people. Additionally, they arereading “Seven Ages of Paris” by Alistair Horne,a monograph of the history of Paris. Central campus Anthropology professor Dr.

Pamela Maack said, “I am excited to hear thatthere will be an international trip for students be-cause it broadens their knowledge of other cul-tures.” However, students will not be afforded typical

tourist comforts. The students will live as if theyare average Parisians for the duration of their stayeven using public transportation to get around thecity. Moreover, Rudisill said, by immersing students

in the host environment, they will connect to thehistory and the culture at a deeper and more per-sonal level. In addition, the spring semester Honors section

of Western Civilization II allows students to learnabout the art and museums they will be exposed toon their trip. “Through an intense amount of preparation in thecrafting of the course, and the dedication of thestudents to the program,” Rudisill said, “our ex-

pectation is that this will be an educational experi-ence unlike any other” The trip is sponsored by the Honors Program withpartial funding from the College, although individ-ual students pay for their own costs and enrollmentin the course. “All honors students in good academic standingwere encouraged to apply, but each applicationwent through a rigorous review process prior tobeing added to the trip,” Rudisill said. This is the Program’s first year to offer studentsa trip abroad but Rudisill said there are more tocome. “I believe future trips are in the works,” Rudisillsaid, “but the destinations and correspondingclasses will be varied.”

Honors students prepare forMay visit to City of Lights

Savannah JacksonStaff Writer

Over the years, the Get Lit eventhas evolved. When event organizer San Jac-

into College English professorWilliam Wolfe started working atCentral campus in 2008, Get Litwas small and aimed to get theword out about literature classes. Now, it is a large scale festivityand its purpose is to bring all de-partments and student organiza-tions together to have a greattime. Many professors and students

involved in the event dress up incostumes, Wolfe said. In earlieryears, attendees would dress upas their favorite literary charac-ters or authors. Now they wearcostumes according to the event’stheme. Last year, the theme was Shake-spearean literature and the eventenjoyed a great turnout. This

year’s theme is Mythology, Leg-ends, and Folklore. Wolfe said heis leaning toward dressing up asDionysus, the God of wine. The event will feature many ac-tivities happening at 15 differentbooths, Wolfe said. Several de-partments and organizations willparticipate including cosmetol-ogy, mathematics, chemistry, bi-ology, foreign language,developmental studies, and ofcourse, English. Furthermore, Wolfe said the cos-metology table’s theme is OnceUpon A Time where they willoffer hairstyling that resemblesfictional characters. Moreover, Chrysalis, the Centralcampus online magazine willhave a booth where Wolfe saidbudding poets can submit a poemthat will be shown on a projectorfor all attendees to see. Other participants include the

nursing department, which willshowcase nursing in literature at

their booth, Pandora’s Pub willoffer free food while the LivingArt booth by Wolfe will featureliving art presented by his stu-dents portraying Greek gods andgoddesses. Wolfe said he and other profes-sors weave this event into theircurriculum. His students partici-pate in the event as part of theirgrades. He added, he encourages stu-

dents from all campuses to attendand hopes students fill everysquare inch of the Student Center. "We're a two year college,”

Wolfe said, “and one of the thingsthat students seem to miss out onis some of the experiences thatstudents at larger universitiesoffer. We're trying to fill some ofthe gaps by offering this funevent." Get Lit will take place Wednes-day, April 23 between 10 a.m. to2 p.m. in the William M. Newtonbuilding.

Get Lit getting bigger than ever

Alain Apaydin Abaca Press/KRTThe Eiffel Tower is one of the many sites students will visit in Paris.

Krystina SalazarStaff Writer

Red Nation fans flooded Toyota Center April 14 to watchHouston clinch the number four seed in the Western Con-ference during the sold-out San Jacinto College Campus

Recreation (Rec) Night at the Rockets. “You’re literally surrounded by fans, and they’re prettyloud; so it's fun to go,” San Jac student Jacob Castillo said. The victory resulted in a four-game season sweep againstTexas NBA rival team San Antonio Spurs with a final scoreof 104-98. “The Spurs have been a better team this season, so I’mglad we swept them.” Castillo said. “That’s big for us. Itshows that we can compete.” Houston’s victory secured home court advantage goinginto the first round of the NBA Playoffs. “We might need it, the team is pretty young, and for themto get together for the Playoffs, is more than just a regularseason game,” student Napoleon Soto said. Last semester, Campus Rec organized the same event forthe first time toward the beginning of the basketball season. “Students are always on a budget, so we’re trying to offerreduced tickets for them,” Campus Rec Staff AssistantMary Shelley said. According to the Shelley, demand for tickets significantlyincreased as the Rockets moved closer toward placing inthe Southwest Division. “This was definitely much more electric. There was moreon the line for this game,” Shelley said. In addition to pro-basketball, Campus Rec plans to offerdiscounted admission for select Dynamo and Astros games,as well. “It just made sense to approach them and see what kindof offer they could make us, and it was a pretty good deal.” “I got eight tickets for the Dynamo,” student Karim Mah-moud said. “If they have anything else to offer, I’ll bethere.” Meanwhile, San Jac students are snatching up the oppor-tunity to attend in person because local broadcasting is lim-ited. “I don’t have Comcast, so I usually will go to Buffalo WildWings or here on campus to watch at the Student Center,”Mahmoud said. Moreover, Shelley said attending a game is an opportunityfor an evening on the town. “Instead of just sitting down watching this stuff on TV orsaying ‘Hey, I’m bored, what is there to do?’…” Shelleysaid. “…Go out to Houston and make a night out of it!”

Sports & FitnessApril 21, 2014 San Jacinto Times Page 6

Keili HarrisonDepartment Editor

“And with the first pick, the Houston Tex-ans select…” A day of picking and choosing and swap-ping and trading is on its way; May 8 be-gins the 2014 National Football LeagueDraft. College players around the country willwait anxiously to hear their name called tothe podium of professionals. The first teamto approach the pedestal this year will beHouston’s home team, the Texans. “I guess you wouldn’t really say they were‘awarded’ the first pick,” San Jacinto Col-lege student Austin Homan said, “it's not anhonor to be last in the league.” The Texans, after initially showing poten-tial for a winning season, wrecked theirrecord with two wins and 14 losses clinch-ing the last place spot in the 2013 season.With such an achievement comes the pitypick from the NFL committee. Each season, the team with the lousiestrecord will receive first pick in the NFLdraft. Like Homan said, it is not quite anhonor but seemingly a Texan tradition, asthis will be their third number one picksince joining the NFL. Predictions have been made based on

heavy player analysis and position demandfor each professional team. “I believe the Texans will use their firstpick on Jadeveon Clowney,” RachelWarner said. “He’s not a quarterback buthe’s just too good to pass up.” Clowney is a six foot six defensive endout of South Carolina who, according toNFL player analysis is an “athletic marvelwith raw, explosive power and rare speedfor his size.” Three NFL media analysts, Daniel Jere-miah, Bucky Brooks and Charles Davis,agree with Warner in predicting the Texansfirst pick to be Clowney. However, others feel the Texans are inneed of a quarterback. That need was dis-played this season by numerous lacklusterperformances in that position.

The seventh-year Texan, Matt Schaub, be-came notoriously known for the “pick six”scenario. In multiple games, he threw apass that was intercepted (pick) and ran fora touchdown (six points). Texans fans grew so irritated with

Schaub’s continuous disappointing per-formances that they cheered when he suf-fered an on-field ankle injury. Jay Hedgeman did not partake in the

cheering of an injury, but does agree thatSchaub was not getting the job done. Tex-ans Head Coach, Bill O’Brien, must’ve hadmutual feelings; Schaub was traded to theOakland Raiders. “The Texans are in definite need of a quar-terback,” he said, “someone like JohnnyManziel.” Manziel, a quarterback from Texas A&M,is a high profile player since winning theHeisman trophy. His flashy on-field per-formance gained him nationwide popular-ity and even a level of celebrity status. Manziel is scheduled to visit the Texanslater this month and is also a top prospectin the draft with predictions showing anearly pickup. Pro Football Hall of Famer, Jerry Rice,told NFL Network selecting JohnnyManziel as their first pick is a “no-brainer.” “If he can just relax, stay in the pocket,deliver the ball down the field with accu-racy, and get the ball in the hands of hisplaymakers, I think it's a no-brainer for theHouston Texans to take this guy," Rice said. Critics will argue that along with

Manziel’s small frame and undisciplinedplay-calling, his off-field demeanor can bea hindrance to whichever football franchisecalls him. With the first pick in their possession, theTexans are at liberty to choose any player,based on their best instincts. The 2014 re-cruiting class runs deep with talent makingtheir decision a tough one. Whichever player is next welcomed toHouston, will not only wear the red, whiteand blue but will be expected to help turnthe Texans’ tragic year to just a glitch in asuccessful 2014 season.

Texans ‘honored’ with NFL No. 1 draft pick

George Bridges MCT CampusJames Harden (13) of the Houston Rockets shootsagainst Jeff Ayres of the San Antonio Spurs in the second half of the Rockets’ 104-98 victory on April 14in Houston.

Rec Night atthe Rockets has Houston fansseeing red