Volleyball team wins bc_rip The Renegade Rip Annual Comic Con to against WLA college @bc_rip @bc_rip showcase guest artist Sports, Page 8 www.therip.com Features, Page 3 The Renegade Rip

Vol. 89 ∙ No. 6 Bakersfield College Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Kern Kiwanis Club opens 'Reading Oasis' at the Friendship House Community Center

By Lizette Chavez as a child in 1957 and later ended Editor-in-Chief up working closely with Kiwanis in 1994. The Kern Kiwanis Club in “Friendship House is my partnership with the Friendship heart, because it is really where . K Yoll Kn..van is House Community Center held I received my start. … This proj- a ribbon cutting event for a new ect is very special to me also, 'II ,• I community Reading Oasis on when I was a kid we used to have Nov. 8. The event was held to a tutorial project here, … when celebrate the opening of a small children are exposed to books, library for children and their par- the more books they have access ents. to, even better than economics Lois Hannible, Community in the home, books play a ma- Action Partnership of Kern jor role in students becoming (CAPK) Friendship House Pro- highly educated. Economics is gram Manager, spoke first at the not the leading factor as most of event before introducing past us think.” president of Kiwanis Club of After the speakers’ speeches, Kern Fred Kittredge, who then the audience was asked to leave addressed the audience. Kit- their seats and walk toward the tredge shared some of the mo- Reading Oasis in order to wit- ments that led to the opening of ness the ribbon cutting. the Reading Oasis like the grants Hannible, Kittredge and Ward and help received and given by cut the ribbon together and then Kiwanis club members who opened the Reading Oasis and ranged from architects, educa- encouraged those attending to go tors, and community leaders. inside and view the room as well Kittredge said, “[It has been] as helping themselves to refresh- just a little over two years, since ments. the day that we started and today The Oasis Room was stocked we’re going to cut the ribbon, with new books with the help of open the door and be able to ac- Scholastic and new computers to tually see it and present it to our help local children with home- friends. We are so proud. Thank work. The computers will also you.” be used for an evening class for The final speaker was Fuchsia local parents to help introduce LIZETTE CHAVEZ / THE RIP Ward, a member of the Kiwanis them to new technology and to Greg Mudge, Fuchsia Ward , John Wagner, Lois Hannible, Callen Fondatzi, and Shirley Ventura smile and pose with Club of Kern and the Friendship help give them the resources to some of the new books available at the new "Reading Oasis" and lab at the Friendship House Community Center in House Advisory Board, who her- help their children with school partnership with the Kern Kiwanis Club on Nov. 8, as guest were invited to look around the new books and computers self attended Friendship House work. available to children and their families, in hopes to encourage reading to elevate education in Southwest Bakersfield. Veteran's Day festival is Student Health Center held on and of campus helps with healthcare By Megan Fenwick has also been present on the resources,” said Ray Purcell, By Ambria King Social Media Editor Delano Campus on Wednes- the director of the Student Photo Editor days since Nov. 1 and will con- Health Center, regarding the The Bakersfield College tinue to be available through center’s effort to assist stu- Bakersfield College celebrated Student Health Center will be Jan. 31 as well. dents in signing up for Covered Veteran’s Day with a week of having an Omni Family Health Although the national dead- California, the health insurance festivities, including the unveil- table available on campus to line for open enrollment for marketplace for the state. “So ing of plans for the new Veterans help students sign up during health care is Dec. 15, open in establishing that bridge, from Resource Center (VRC) on Nov. open enrollment for Medi-Cal enrollment for Californian resi- campus services to community 8 and Vet Fest on Nov 9. The Ba- and Covered California. An dents is extended to Jan. 31. services, then we broaden the kersfield Veteran’s Day parade enrollment specialist has been However, for coverage on Jan. base of what a student can re- was also held in Downtown Ba- available in the Campus Cen- 1 to kick in, the deadline is still quire. In order for them to ac- kersfield on Nov 11. ter Quad on Wednesdays since Dec. 15. For those who sign up cess that, they have to either The plans for the new VRC Oct. 25 and will continue to be after that date, coverage will not qualify for Covered California were revealed at a ceremony held on campus on select Wednes- kick in until February or March. or Medi-Cal.” in front of the Language Arts days through the end of Janu- “Our ongoing effort is to To qualify for Medi-cal, building. The ceremony includ- ary. An enrollment specialist bridge campus to community Please see ACA, Page 7 ed a speech by Lee Caldwell, a Bakersfield College student who is also a veteran. He shared how important having the current vet- eran’s lounge has been to his col- lege experience and expressed Bakersfeld City Council bans pot his excitement in regards to the new VRC. The following day, Bakers- By Ambria King passed an ordinance which ed cannabis. They are also able field College held Vet Fest from Photo Editor bans any commercial marijuana to grow up to six plants and The results of a vote held by 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event hosted business from operating within possess the marijuana produced the Bakersfield City Council on a number of speakers, includ- AMBRIA KING / THE RIP the city. by those plants. Oct. 11 have banned the opera- ing Cristian Gutierrez, the cur- Local Bakersfield residents march dressed as American The ordinance was passed As of Nov. 1, more than 120 tion of marijuana shops within rent president of the Vet Club. revolutionaries during the downtown Vet's Day Parade. with a vote of 5-1, with Coun- marijuana dispensaries operate Bakersfield city limits. Gutierrez spoke about all of the cilman Willie Rivera giving the within the limits of Kern Coun- Despite the passing of Propo- resources that Bakersfield Col- military veteran. who have served. “There’s just only vote in opposition of the ty. After the Oct. 11 ban was sition 64, which legalized the lege offers for vets, such as pri- Serrato served for a period of a brother and sisterhood that we ban. passed, 20 shops were closed possession and use of mari- ority registration and access to a 8 years, from ’83 to ’91 and said share… We have familiar experi- Bakersfield residents aged in Bakersfield, with 10 of those juana in the state of California computer lab and those who can that despite her years of service, ences. We understand each other. 21 and over will still be able to closures occurring after a mass and takes effect on Jan. 1 2018, assist with registration. she often isn’t recognized as be- I think that we go to each other possess up to one ounce of mar- sweep was performed by the Bakersfield city officials have Local Band, Vanity Avenue, ing a veteran unless she is wear- first when we need something. ijuana or 8 grams of concentrat- Please see Marijuana, Page 7 provided entertainment for the ing her dog tags or dressed in a There’s a lot of really young event; performing covers of pop- manner that makes it obvious. people on campus, and we [vets] ular alternative and rock hits. “I’ve been a veteran for quite have similar life experience,” ONLINE Vet fest gave BC students and a while… but you pretty much said Serrato. faculty a chance to gather to- have to point it out. Even if That sentiment was expressed Answer the Renegade Rip’s Poll online gether and celebrate the service I’m wearing something that has by a majority of the vets who and sacrifice provided by mili- ‘Army’ written on it, people just spoke at vet fest. They expressed tary veterans, many of which are think that I’m a spouse… they how pivotal having a center spe- Do you think student parking should be free also BC students. Diane Serrato, don’t look at me as somebody cifically designated to veterans for Bakersfeld College students? a current BC student shared her who served,” said Serrato. was for their college experience. experience as an Army vet and Despite being out of the Army On Nov. 11 Bakersfield held www.therip.com expressed the issues she’s faced since 1991, Serrato still prefers its annual Veteran’s Day parade spending her time with others that are unique to being a female Please see Vet Fest Page 7 NEWS Page 2 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Kern County assembly members oppose gas tax and increased registration fees signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown

By Melissa Puryear taxes are deposited into the Road fornians how and to what extent Reporter Maintenance and Rehabilitation we should invest on our roads, I Account. This law will remain could not in ‘good conscience’ Governor Jerry Brown signed active until 2027. to my heart and to the families I the tax at the pump and car fees Two local assembly members, represent, vote for a life-altering bill, known as SB1 Transporta- Democrat Rudy Salas and Re- measure that does not at least ask tion Act, which was approved publican Vince Fong of Bakers- them to weigh-in.” by the Legislature back in early field, who represent the State’s Carl Demaio, a former San April of this year. The taxes and 32nd and 34th assembly dis- Diego City Councilman and the fees will pay for $5.9 billion in tricts, respectively, which com- Chairman of the Reform Califor- ailing roads, transportation, and prise most of Kern County, were nia initiative, is also opposed to bridges infrastructure. The bill vocal about their opposition to the gas tax bill and it is why he went into effect on Nov. 1. There the gas tax, on the grounds that has proposed the Reform Cali- is an effort underway to disman- the taxes for the transportation fornia initiative to rescind the tle the bill and place the gas tax infrastructure were paid in years gas tax law. He began a signa- issue before the voters on Nov. 6, past, but those taxes earmarked ture collection for a petition to 2018, although the repeal initia- for California roads and trans- reverse the bill. tive is currently unofficial, pend- portation infrastructure, were di- He said, “They [politicians] ing signatures. verted to pay non-transportation promise to fix the pot holes, but The gas tax law and vehicle infrastructure costs. the reality is that the money is registration fee increases have Both said that residents in the never used on what they say they faced opposition along the way, valley have to drive farther to will allot it to … They use this as as Californians are already en- work and that the valley doesn’t window dress, finding problems cumbered with some of the high- have a mass transportation sys- like potholes and roads to raise est gas taxes in the nation. A poll tem like other areas in California. more money for their spending.” taken by UC Berkley’s Institute Due to this lack of transportation Demaio also believes that the of Governmental Studies found reliance, those in the valley are bill should never have been intro- that when the gas tax issue was going to pay even more. duced or passed in the first place, originally introduced, 63 percent Assembly members Salas and especially without the consent of of those respondents opposed a Fong contend that if the taxes the voters. The Reform Califor- gas tax increase, while 74 per- during those years had been ap- nia initiative will allow the voters cent of respondents opposed the plied appropriately, there would to vote for or against the gas tax. higher vehicle registration fees, be no need for the current gas tax The gas-up realities for the yet it became law. bill. This means that struggling working-class, and those who Before the gas tax law was families could face a greater fi- live on a shoestring budget ac- implemented on Nov. 1, a pre- nancial burden of driving their cording to Demaio, will look existing law provided that the personal vehicles, with no op- like this for Californians, “The transportation, roads, and bridg- tions to alleviate the high cost of more you spend on the road the es infrastructure were funded in this forced-transportation alter- more you are going to be taxed. various ways. This included fuel native and that’s a problem, ac- If you gas up once a week with a excise taxes, commercial weight cording to Salas and Fong. vehicle that has a 20-gallon gas fees, local transactions and use Fong said that “Californians tank, then you’re paying $300 a taxes, and federal funds. The will see less of their hard earned year. This amount will double or Department of the California money going towards things that triple if you gas up twice a week Highway Patrol, which fell un- matter to them such as saving and so on.” der the transportation portion of for their kids’ college education, Daina Valdovines, a Bakers- the former bill, received its reve- retirement, or buying a home. field resident, whose sister is a nues from the excess runoff each Even essentials such as food, en- Bakersfield College student, op- month, collected from vehicle ergy, and housing will be more poses the gas tax hike and will registration fees at the Depart- expensive as businesses pass on vote for the repeal should it make ment of Motor Vehicles. costs to consumers.” it on the ballot next fall. “There The law states that motorists Fong said that SB1 “is a should be another way to pay for will pay $0.12 per gallon in- continuation of the failed ac- the roads. I don’t work, my hus- crease in fuel taxes, 50 percent countability measures that were band’s the only one that works. of a $0.20 per gallon increase present in the existing law.” We have three children and two in the diesel excise tax, with an He also said that there are no cars, so with gas going up, that’s inflation adjustment, and a Ve- new processes that have been MELISSA PURYEAR / THE RIP a big deal for us,” she said. hicle License Fee between $25 written into the new law which Daina Valdovines, a Bakersfield resident, fills up her gas tank at a Fastrip gas station. Without a chance at a reversal, and $175, depending upon the means that there is no way of California will face ever increas- value of the vehicle, to take ef- preventing the “existing practice In fact, already 30 percent of change the status quo- it is busi- ty” to transportation funding, but ing gas taxes as inflation rises fect on Jan. 1, 2018. For zero- of diverting money away from the taxes generated, will come ness as usual,” said Fong. the AB 496 went unsupported by because politicians sculpted a emission vehicles (2020 and transportation funds into the directly off the top and will not Fong introduced AB 496 ear- Sacramento leadership. bill that would take inflation later) a $100 fee will be imposed general fund,” and away from re- be applied towards repair of lier this year to reestablish the In an earlier statement this into account and raise taxes ac- and take effect on July 1, 2020. pairing roads, as is in the design roads, based on the new rules guarantee that there would be year, Salas said, “Because SB 1 cordingly throughout the next 10 The revenue received from these of this new law. within this law. “SB1 does not “transparency and accountabili- imposes rather than asks Cali- years. UberEATS arrives in Bakersfeld Sexual harrassment

By Melissa Puryear made getting around Bakersfield Reporter easy and reliable at the push of guidance from DeVos a button, is coming to make get- UberEATS, a newly emerg- ting great food in Bakersfield as ing restaurant delivery service, easy as requesting a ride,” Sed- launched by Uber, the same ride- lak said. sharing service shuttling people The UberEATS app will allow likely won’t afect BC to and from places around the the consumer to rate their food city, brought the food delivery and the delivery service, and also By Megan Fenwick ing BC is under question six, concept to the Bakersfield mar- provide an optional tip after de- Social Media Editor which dictates that details such ket on Nov. 13. livery. as, “the identities of the parties Ordering food could not be Some of the restaurants con- Betsy DeVos, the United States involved, the specific section of easier, and is at the touch of a sumers will be able to choose Secretary of Education, with- the code of conduct allegedly button, according to Stephanie from are Deli Delicious, Fresco drew an Obama-era Dear Col- violated, the precise conduct al- Sedlak, a communications man- Mexican Grill, Knife & Fork league letter on Sept. 22 which legedly constituting the potential ager for UberEATS. Bakersfield Bistro and more. outlined guidance for how col- violation, and the date and loca- residents need only to download Evan Aguilar, the Marketing lege campuses should investigate tion of the alleged incident” be the UberEATS app or order from Director for Fresco Mexican accusations of sexual harassment provided to the accused party as the UberEATS website online, Grill, one of the restaurants who and assault. The Department of well as the complainant. and then choose from more partnered with UberEATS, said Education also released a Q&A “The Title 5 regulations do than 25 local restaurants avail- that the main reason they chose to give colleges and universities not require that the [districts] able. Consumers are charged a UberEATS was based upon cus- new guidance on how to hadle provide this level of notice to standard “booking fee” of $5.99 tomer query. “Our customers such reports. respondents. Some investiga- along with the cost of the food. have been asking us if we could However, Christopher Hines, tors fear that this requirement But, according to Sedlak, “there deliver for years now, but it’s not General Counsel for the Kern will interfere with their ability are zero hidden fees.” quite feasible for us to have a de- Community College District, to conduct an effective investiga- According to Sedlak, one of livery person on staff when our says that this change will likely tion and that it could lead to re- the unique advantages to Uber- average ticket price is less than not affect Bakersfield College’s taliation against, or intimidation EATS is the ability to “track $10. UberEATS changes that by investigative process. “The with- of, witnesses. It should also be your order through every step of handling the delivery for us and drawal of the Dear Colleague noted that if federal regulations the process live, ensuring you are in turn allowing us to serve more Letter should not have an im- are passed which are consistent getting what you want, delivered customers.” mediate impact on California with the new OCR guidance then at Uber speed.” Aguilar also said that they Community Colleges for the they could have the effect of pre- She said that what makes their were excited about partnering most part,” said Hines. “The pro- empting the Title 5 regulations,” food delivery service different for the rollout in the Bakersfield cedure for investigating sexual said Hines. from standard restaurant deliv- market. He said that with Uber- GOOGLE IMAGES harassment, including sexual as- As it currently stands, the ery services is UberEATS’ reli- EATS it allows them to offer ease sault, for California Community guidance released by the Depart- ability and convenience, and the and convenience to their custom- pick it up at the front door.” more than one restaurant, there Colleges is found in Title 5 of the ment of Education is not law and advantages of offering late night ers. “Now with UberEATS, our Consumers can choose as would be an additional $5.99 California Code of Regulations.” therefore KCCD will continue food and willingness to deliver customers will be able to order a many dishes as they want from charge for each restaurant and According to Hines, the only to adhere to state law when han- meals to longer distances. “The Signature Burrito (steak, shrimp, a restaurant, but if they wish each order would be assigned aspect of the new guidance that dling accusations of assault and same technology company that bacon & more) from bed and to have food delivered from to separate delivery drivers. he anticipates potentially affect- harassment. FEATURES Page 3 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Beard competition held to help children ‘Gamers are not dead’ Video Game Culture: From a veteran’s perspective

“Gamers” are not dead. Several articles written by video game journalism websites were posted in late August 2014 and early Sep- tember 2014 stating that gam- ers are not part of a culture and that they are all angry. In an article written by Leigh Alexander from gama- MELISSA PURYEAR / THE RIP sutra.com, Alexander writes, “’Game culture’ as we know One contestant in the Business Beard category presents his opponents beard. it is kind of embarrassing – it’s not even culture. It’s buy- By Melissa Puryear Stuff, Tawnee Shelton, said the and was convinced she could ing things, spackling over Reporter idea to sponsor The Beard Bash create a formula for her husband, memes and in-jokes repeat- came from having attended beard and that’s how the Shelton’s edly, and it’s getting mad on Men with handle-bar whis- competitions for years. She said, company was born. Tawnee the internet.” kers, business beards and women “We go to a lot of beard competi- Shelton began advertising it on- Several other articles fol- in crafted (fake) beards traveled tions. We wanted to have a beard line as That Beard Stuff because lowed the one written by from Southern California and competition with a purpose.” she couldn’t think of a name for Gamasutra. Kotaku, Polygon, Northern California, to Bakers- Ty Shelton, Tawnee Shelton’s it. Ty Shelton said he received a The Daily Beast, Financial field, to compete for clout and husband, said the reason they phone call at work one day when MELISSA PURYEAR / THE RIP First Place winner Clark Skinner, tries to wow the judges Post, Buzzfeed, VG247, Ars wooden plaques, and all for a chose the non-profit organiza- his wife put the product online Technica, Vice, Destructoid, good cause, to raise money and tion B.A.C.A. to receive 100 and he said the name she gave it and excite the audience for Natural Mustache category. The Guardian, and Rock awareness for Bikers Against percent of the proceeds was that, interim, “just felt right,” so they Paper Shotgun all said how Child Abuse B.A.C.A. at the “They are very near and dear to kept it. and chin hair can’t connect to place, overall. Gamers Beard Bash on Nov. 11 at Pro- our hearts. We are honored and The Beard Bash showcased sideburns), Partial beard (broken Winners each received a and the hibition in Rosedale. humbled to do what we do. In women in crafted beards in a line from temple to temple or no wooden engraved plaque. culture of That Beard Stuff, a local com- putting on a beard competition category dubbed “Whiskerinas.” mustache) , Business beard (full Three judges, John Banks, gaming is pany that provides men’s beard [with B.A.C.A. as the recipient] There was a crochet beard with beard under 2 inches), Natural Nate Johnson and Rob Juker dying due grooming and mustache care there was no other organization adornments hanging from it, beard over and under 12 inches determined the winners in each to them line products, sponsored the in mind except them.” and a beard that almost looked (must have unbroken line from category. spreading beard competition for the non- That Beard Stuff, a 4-year-old real on one woman with an unlit temple to temple and no styl- Angry Brians, a local Celtic hate across profit. All proceeds raised at company, was destined to be, ac- cigarette dangling from her lips. ing aids for mustache), Styled rock band, featured guitarist and the inter- Brandon the event were donated for the cording to Ty Shelton. His wife There was a colorful beard on a beard over and under 12 inches mandolin player Rich Cheney, net. Cowan services that the organization of did not like how “wiry” his beard woman in a unicorn onesie with a (no styling aids allowed for mus- Valerie Byrnes on bagpipes, The peo- biker advocates for child victims felt, so she told him to shave it. tail and a bushy beard you might tache), Freestyle (anything goes) Douglas Kirk on bass, and Wal- ple that wrote these articles of abuse provide. Bowza, a lo- He refused. They began looking expect to see on Santa Claus. with the category to close out ter Baldwin on drums and per- do not know what gamers are. cal chapter member and board for products online that would There were 11 men beard cate- the competition named Best in cussion. They even featured a There has always been a member, said that his organiza- solve the problem. There weren’t gories with firm rules so that par- Show. Best in Show was where new female vocalist. narrative that has been being tion provides round-the-clock many products dedicated to ticipants would not have unfair the number 1 finalists went beard There was plenty of food, pushed onto video games. protection, and accompaniment beard groomers, and those prod- hair advantage. They were Natu- to beard, beard to stash, or stash raffle prizes, and music to keep First there was the scare of to court hearings so children feel ucts that were available, were ral Mustache (no styling aids al- to stash against each other and people occupied through the whether or not video games empowered and safe. expensive. lowed), Styled mustache (styling the man or woman whose hair 5-hour event, which raised, at cause violence. Then there The founder of That Beard Tawnee Shelton was “crafty” aids allowed), Goatee (mustache was deemed the best, won first night’s close, over $1,200. was the scare of video games causing misogyny. Gamers do not care about your identity politics. Gamers care about video games. The only thing that mat- ‘The Book of Liz’ makes BC students laugh ters is whether or not a video game is good. If the game is bad, no amount of catering to By Jenny Brito job that Liz had been doing her the audience is going to sell Reporter whole life. Feeling frustrated, Liz decid- the game. The Empty Space Theater pre- ed to leave her home. The play People need to understand miered its latest play, “The Book focuses on life outside of a re- that video games are not real; of Liz,” on Nov. 10 at 8 p.m. ligious community, and how it video games are an art form. “The Book of Liz” lasted 80 impacted Sister Liz. No sane person will kill minutes without intermissions, On her adventures, she met people because they kill peo- yet time seemed to fly by for au- Oxana, portrayed by actress An- ple in a video game. No sane dience members who could not gela Poncetta, who helped her person will hate a political stop laughing at the story of Sis- find a job as a waitress. movement or a gender be- ter Elizabeth Donderstock. Liz then worked as a waitress cause they can kill women on Sister Liz, played by Kristina and was eventually promoted to a television screen. Saldana, makes the cheese balls a manager position. However, Yes, women die in video that sustain the existence of her becoming a manager would re- games. Yes, players can have religious community, Cluster- quire that she wear a short skirt, sex with women in video haven. which went against her religion. games. Yes, players can hire Saldana managed to keep the She is then faced with a dif- female prostitutes in “Grand audience delighted with her por- ficult decision: should she sac- Theft Auto: V” and then kill trayal of a girl who is both scared rifice her values so that she them to get their money back. yet adventurous at times. can succeed in her new home? No, this does not make me Sister Liz began to feel un- Would things change if she went hate women or think of them appreciated after Reverent back home? as an object. Tollhouse, portrayed by Steve These questions are hilarious- I have grown up playing Evans, brought another man to ly answered as the play develops. video games from before I the community and claimed that Written by Amy and David can remember. I do remem- he could do a better job without Sedaris, and directed by Michael ber playing “The Legend of all the bickering of Liz. Brother Pawloski, “The Book of Liz” JENNY BRITO / THE RIP Zelda: Ocarina of Time” and Nathaniel Brightbee, played by will be playing at the Empty Sister Liz, played by Kristina Saldana, is informed that she will have to wear short skirts playing as a man to save a Paul Sosa, soon took over the Space until Nov. 18. in order to become a manager. woman. I do remember play- ing “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas” as a kid and killing prostitutes to get my money back. As a gamer, I do not care Bakersfeld’s Comic-Con will have collectables and art about what you look like. I do not care if a video game de- By Alexandra Apatiga towards the Bakersfield Rescue first convention, Wyatt has gath- munity and the fans of comic kept this event going,” said Wy- picts the gender that you are Reporter Mission Food Drive, and mul- ered support and sponsors from books have given us,” said Wyatt. att. “Without their feedback and as an object. tiple costume contests for con- the Bakersfield community and To show his gratitude, Wyatt support, I never would’ve imag- I do not care if the video The Kern County Fair testants over and under 16 years the event has grown to nearly explained, he has made every ef- ined Bakersfield Comic-Con game kills your gender in a Grounds will be hosting the 10th of age. There will also be various 5,000 attendees as of last year. fort to keep Bakersfield Comic- getting as big as it is today.” video game. All I care about Annual Bakersfield Comic-Con Q&A panels and autograph sign- “Before I started this, there Con local and as affordable as For the 10th Annual Bakers- is if the game is fun. I could for a two-day weekend conven- ings with special guests like Lisa were smaller comic book con- possible, while still inviting fa- field Comic-Con, special limited not care any less about how tion on Nov. 18 and Nov. 19 to Loring, who played the origi- ventions in town, but none of mous guest stars and artists and edition pins will be handed out a woman dresses in a video celebrate comic books, cosplay, nal Wednesday Addams from them were very involved with expanding the convention to new opening day, along with Bakers- game. art, games, and other popular en- “The Addams Family,” cartoon the community as a whole” said heights. field Comic-Con t-shirts, and a These journalists say that tertainment platforms. legend Sergio Aragones, C. An- Wyatt, “I knew I could do better, According to Wyatt the trick Fantasy Convention which will women get targeted on the in- Attendees can expect vendors drew Nelson, who is best known with all the experience I’ve gath- to creating a successful conven- be held right outside the ware- ternet in video games. While and artists from across Bakers- for his portrayal as Darth Vader ered over the years, and as a local tion is finding a balance between house buildings. that is true, it is missing out field to be selling their wares, from the “Star Wars” franchise, resident I felt it was only right to quality and quantity. “What you Admission to the Bakersfield the fact that the internet is a such as Silver Wolf Comics and Pat Priest, who will be mak- try and make a better Comic- don’t want to do is hold a con- Comic-Con starts at $8 for a one- disgusting place full of anon- & Collectables and The Gam- ing her final convention appear- Con where everyone could par- vention the first year, and then day pass Saturday or Sunday, ymous people harassing ev- ing Spot, as well as various fan ance at Bakersfield Comic-Con. ticipate and get excited about,” immediately double the size and $15 for a two-day weekend. eryone. groups and organizations such as The Bakersfield Comic-Con said Wyatt. of it the next year, that will put For children under 15 years old, They target the things that Bakersfield R2 Builders, the Star made its first appearance at the Wyatt has earned the support too much strain and expectation a one-day pass for either day is will hurt you the most. They Wars 501st, and CSUB Campus Double Tree by Hilton hotel and of local stores such as Paladins for future events that you can’t only $5 and $8 for a two-day target your race, gender, age, Gamers. was organized by Bakersfield Game Castle and Man Bites Dog meet” said Wyatt. pass, with children under 8 years and anything else that could Other events that will be hap- resident Steve Wyatt. With near- Emporium, as well as comic After nearly 10 years of host- old getting in for free. There is make you mad. pening throughout the weekend ly 43 years of experience in the book and gaming stores across ing Bakersfield Comic-Con, also a parking fee for $5. Gaming is not for every- include a mini renaissance fair comic book industry, organizing Bakersfield in promoting the Wyatt explained that he will con- Bakersfield Comic-Con be- one, and if you can get hurt by Fantasy Convention, featuring and attending comic book con- convention. tinue to give his supporters and gins Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. For more what kind of clothes charac- The Horsemen of Judgements ventions, Wyatt’s first Bakers- “The only reason we’ve grown the city a fun and memorable information of the convention ters in video games are wear- Keep, the 8th annual charity field Comic-Con brought out to the size we are at now is be- experience. and events, go to bakersfield- ing, then you should just not raffle with all proceeds going nearly 400 people. But since the cause of all the support the com- “It’s really the fans who’ve comiccon.com. play that game. FEATURES Page 4 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Kern Energy Festival educates

CHRISTINA BENAVIDES / THE RIP Bakersfield College representatives for the STEM department interact with children at CHRISTINA BENAVIDAS / THE RIP the Bakersfield Energy Festival. Taft College offering children attending the event to play a bowling game.

By Christina Benavides expecting 5-6,000 attendees. also mentioned the importance 28, member of Kern Citizens school. nity, it is important for people Reporter In addition, there was a sec- of oil and gas. for Energy, spoke highly of their She also included that they here locally to be educated,” tion labelled “Kids Zone” that “Oil and gas is such an impor- work advocating energy in Kern have advocated for energy at Belle said. The second Kern Energy Fes- featured interactive activities for tant part of our community, thou- County. California State University of She also explained that it is tival (KEF), was held at the Kern children. The activities included; sands and thousands of people Bell mentioned that the non- Bakersfield and Bakersfield Col- important to educate our youth County Museum on Nov. 11. mobile learning units sponsored work in that industry, and our tax profit organization has been in lege in the past, and that it is because a lot of kids, and even The event happened 10 a.m. by Chevron, and a STEM zone is based mainly on oil and gas,” existence for four years, and important to talk about the topic college students are misinformed to 3 p.m. and admission was free (science, technology, engineer- Hathaway said. their main goal is to bring light within education. about the energy industry, and it to the public. Every two years, ing, and mathematics). He concluded that the purpose to the conversation of energy. “There is so much misinfor- affects our environment. the KEF takes place, according Hathaway explained that the of the day was to celebrate the Adding, that they also in- mation out there and I think be- All proceeds made at the KEF to Chairman of the Kern Energy event was created to bring en- industry and educate our locals. troduce energy in education cause Kern County has so much will go to educational charities. Foundation, Chad Hathaway. ergy and the community closer One energy related vendor, in schools, and recently had a gas production, and it is such a For more information on KEF Hathaway added that there were together, and to celebrate our en- Kern Citizens for Energy, was mobile oil field learning unit in driving factor in our economy, visit www.KernEnergyFestival. over 100 vendors that day and an ergy industry in Kern County. He invited to the KEF. Julie Bell, Arvin at Haven Drive middle and a huge part in our commu- com. Wind Wolves Preserve hosts a fundraiser that is titled ‘Child in the Wild’ to help education programs

By Melissa Puryear across the state of California that with a whole-wide range of pro- Attendees included, “com- Reporter have educational programs for gramming, as well as hands-on pany and corporate sponsors that children. service learning, and stem pro- provided financial contributions Wind Wolves Preserve, a Wind Wolves mission is “To gramming, overnight camping for the event, and the people who 93,337-acre non-profit nature preserve the beauty and biodi- experiences.” purchased tickets,” according to preserve, located near the Grape- versity of the earth and to pro- He said that hosting events Peppel, with many local spon- vine, hosted their 2nd annual vide programs so that children like these allow for children to sors who shared in the educa- fundraiser, “Child in the Wild,” may know the wonder and joy get an outdoor education with tional fundraising venture, such event on Nov. 4 from 6-8:30 p.m. of nature,” according to Land- an emphasis on curriculum that as Micoene Productions, Cali- The fall fundraiser cost $35 on Peppel, who is the preserve supports what students are learn- fornia Resources Corporation, and featured local speakers, Manager and Northern Conser- ing in the classroom. Chevron, Kaiser Permanente, some of whom represented a va- vation Director for the Wildland They have recently added bi- Vulcan Materials, and WRA, riety of school districts in Kern Conservancy. lingual programing to “better Inc. The WildlandsConser vacy · Wind Wolves Preserve County, food, drinks and enter- According to Peppel, “Child address the variety of demo- Pepple mentioned that there tainment. in the Wild” will fund the “11 graphics that use the preserve,” were many more sponsors and "Chifc[ in tlie 'Wifti'' The event brought in funding different programs of which Peppel said. contributors to the event, such for the outdoor educational pro- teach common core curricu- As far as financial goals that as Bakersfield Museum of Art, Annual l=all l=undraiser suppo rtin g Ou td oor !::ducalion gram that Wind Wolves offers. lum, national science standards the program anticipated to meet CSUB, The Garlic Company and MELISSA PURYEAR / THE RIP They host up to 10,000 Kern ... ethno-body Native American from the fundraiser, they expect- Panera Bread, Jennifer Williams County students annually and culture, geography and the solar ed around $30,000 to $50,000, Photography and Two Galz Pho- Left – Melissa Dabulamanzi (Education Director) and is a part of 15 current preserves system, evolution and diversity, according to Peppel. tography. right – Landon Peppel (Director of Wind Wolves) posing. Renegade Struggles: Christiana Livingston

We all have a struggle, and every person has a different story. Each issue of The Rip will fea- ture a student overcoming certain struggles to gain an education and better their life.

By Christopher Cocay kersfield, Oakland had a perfect she’s not really good with doing Reporter weather, it’s like 75 everyday all her homework, she always wait day, all year.” until last minute to do all of her Christiana Livingston, 22, Livingston loves to read books, homework. grew up in a religious family draw, read poems and listen to “I usually do homework the where she was home-schooled, music. She said that she wants to day before it’s due or sometimes and now she is a major in Eng- be a writer someday. That’s why in class. I am a procrastinator. I lish at Bakersfield College. she’s majoring in English. Her always think of other things that Livingston is the oldest of five favorite book is “IT” written by I could be doing, and I also work children. She was born in Oak- Stephen King. better under pressure, so some- CHRISTOPHER COCAY / THE RIP land, and her family is part of a She also plans on double ma- times I wait purposely until the Christiana Livingston reads the novel “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the ministry where they talked about joring in English and History. last minute, so that I could do Universe” written by Benjamin Alire Saenz. Christianity on the streets of San She said “I love History because better, but, I know that if I actu- Francisco and Berkeley. it studies about everything that ally applied myself, I’ll probably one that everyone looks up to, getting older and still living in with her problems by being She said her family lived in a happened, it shows how people do better a lot than I am doing and your parents sometimes use my parent’s house, it’s difficult. content with wherever she is ministry house for nine years. have always been funny and vio- even though I do pretty good in you as a guinea pig, they test But with friends, I didn’t really right now whenever she has a They moved to Bakersfield lent, and horrible. History is real- my classes anyway. I know how things on you like you can’t do have a lot of struggles, but when problem. when she was 10. ly really funny, and really really to be stable with my classes, but other things, and you have to I was in high school, I didn’t “When I have a problem, I’ll She said “I don’t like that it’s violent and sad, and there’s so I don’t really know how to do my wait till you get old to do some- have a lot of friends. It’s not be- think that it’s not that a big of so hot, and I don’t like how the many secrets that we don’t know best,” said Livingston. thing, and the younger kids are cause I was home-schooled, it’s a problem, sometimes, I ignore air is bad here in Bakersfield, about, and it’s really cool to see She also mentioned about allowed to do the things you because I wasn’t really being my problems until I don’t think but I’ve met some really good how everything is connected.” her struggles with family and aren’t allowed to do, so it’s kind friendly, and I was really shy,” of it as a problem anymore, or people and they have some really When asked about her strug- friends, “Being the oldest child of hard to deal with that, with she said. sometimes, I try to resolve it the cool stories here. But unlike Ba- gles with school, Livingston said is difficult because you’re the all the expectations, and as I’m Livingston said she deals best way I can,” she said. CAMPUS Page 5 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Make new BC Performing Arts will sugar rules

Health Advice: Practical tips for staying healthy

Although I grew up in another showcase Orwell’s ‘1984’ country, I was always somehow connected to America. My father used to travel to the United States By Alexandra Apatiga for business frequently, so I grew Reporter up hearing stories about his ad- ventures in America. Whenever The Bakersfield College Per- he came back from his trips, I forming Arts Department will be would stay awake just to see showcasing a play adaptation of what presents he brought me. George Orwell’s novel “1984,” Don’t get me wrong, I wanted to adapted by Robert Owens, Wil- see him too, but, secretly, it was ton E. Hall Jr. and William A. all about the candy. Miles Jr. and directed by BC the- The U.S. has many wonder- ater professor Kimberly Chin. ful things to offer, which is The play is set to hold shows why people all over the world from Wednesday Nov. 15 dream of coming here. For chil- through Saturday Nov. 18 and dren, however, the appeal of the will be performed in The Black United States is the unmeasur- Box Theatre in the Perform- able number of toys, candy and ing Arts Center (PAC 107). The Disney World. When I first came doors will open at 7 p.m. and to America, I was still a child at ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP the show will begin at 7:30 p.m., heart, so I went crazy every time with a matinee daytime showing BC student Chris Nisbett as O’brien and Andrew Beard as I entered a Walmart. There were of the play on Nov. 18 at 2 p.m. Winston Smith, act out a scene from Orwell’s “1984”. so many things to see, and, most The novel, which the play is importantly, so much candy to based on, was published in 1949 hope that audiences will see both will be performing in “1984” eat. and was written as a warning for Orwell’s original message, as include Chris Nisbett, a BC The- Needless to say, I gained humanity not to give into gov- well as the efforts of her actors in ater major and actor who has like a mil- ernment control. expressing that message. performed in several BC produc- lion pounds According to Chin, the world “The arts are powerful” said tions. thanks to the that the play is set in is a dys- Chin, “With theater, actors need Nisbett’s character O’Brien, variety of topian society ruled under a to- to be able to understand the mes- will serve as the main antagonist ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP sugar sourc- talitarian government, where all sage of the script and who their of the play. Andrew Beard and Carlie Wood rehearse a scene. es found in free-thought and will are sup- characters are when performing “It’s always stressful before this country. pressed and citizens are always for an audience. we go on stage because there Of course, under surveillance. “If my students aren’t able to comes a point during rehearsals the next one.” for general admission and $8 that isn’t the Chin explained that “1984,” understand who they are playing and setup where we just can’t Tickets for “1984” can be for students, faculty and staff, country’s while a work of fiction, can and why, then the overall mes- wait for the play to be over,” said purchased through Vallitix.com military, and seniors, no chil- fault, but my Jenny Brito easily be compared to our own sage loses its meaning.” Nisbett, “But once it’s all said or at the door the night of the dren under six years old will be own. I let world, and she expressed her Among Chin’s students who and done, you just can’t wait for play. Admission starts at $12 allowed entry. myself go every time I saw any colorfully-wrapped treasure on the shelves. Sweets brought back childhood memories of back home, and I craved those feel- ings. Most people have developed unhealthy eating habits based BC Professor Reggie on how certain foods make them feel. Sugar is number one when it comes to making people feel good, so their bodies crave it. In fact, there is a biological reason for this. First, sweets raise our blood sugar, which results in a quick Williams hosts fnal energy boost. However, the en- ergy boost is short-lived and fol- lowed by a crash, and then we need more. Second, sugar deliv- ers serotonin to our brain. Sero- tonin affects our mood, among other things, and it makes us feel happy. The positive feelings fade Gadfy Cafe session quickly, and we need more sugar to get the same effect. This can lead to a cycle of dependence that is very similar to other ad- dictions. Breaking free from our sugar- dependence is not easy, but it can be done. Understanding how of the Fall semester sugar affects our bodies might help us be more committed to eliminating it from our diet. Sugar makes us hungry, moody, sluggish, and fatter. It also leads to a myriad of health is- sues including diabetes and high cholesterol. Because of that, I in the Levan Center believe that quitting sugar is key to becoming healthier. By Brandon Cowan teaching those individuals right in the room, but frequently in the To eliminate sugar from our di- Web Editor from wrong. West we tend to think that way.” ets, we need to identify whether a Williams said that we fre- The topics that are held for product has sugar. When looking Hosted by Reggie Williams, a quently hear the saying “God, The Gadfly Café are open for at ingredients, be wary of these the Father.” He added, “Not all anyone interested to join. The philosophy professor, The Gad- MEGAN FENWICK / THE RIP terms: high fructose corn syrup, fly Café was held for the last cultures can see God in that way. next session is set to be held in malt sugar, or organic cane juice. time this fall semester on Nov. 8. There are different understand- the spring at the Levan Center Rob Parsons, a retired STEM professor, shares a story These are sugar sources. Also, The Gadfly Café was started ings of God that might well be for Humanities. about discussing climate change with a man at a bar. try to avoid artificial sweeten- by a Bakersfield College profes- ers. While they do not contain sor named Rene Trujillo. calories, they can increase your Held in The Levan Center for cravings for sugar and fat. Lastly, Humanities, The Gadfly Café of- increase your protein and fiber fers different topics and themes intake. These can help you expe- for students to discuss. This se- rience fewer cravings. mester, topics have ranged from Most importantly, you should wealth policies and progress to know that you have the power to robotics in everyday life. reset your sweet tooth. However, This time, Williams hosted it takes time and a lot of com- The Gadfly Café, and will con- mitment. My recommendation tinue to do so for the spring se- is that you focus on achieving mester. The topic for the Nov. 8 smaller goals. Baby steps can Gadfly Café was religion, pur- take you far, so begin by remov- pose, and values. ing at least one teaspoon of sugar Williams started off the dis- a day. Eventually, you will be cussion with the gathering of able to skip the sugary snacks students by asking the question for a week, then two weeks, and of how non-religious people get then a month. Something that morals and whether or not reli- helped me with the cravings was gion is a necessity or if it has be- replacing unhealthy snacks with come outdated. fruits; fruits also contain sugar Kari Tiger, 25, said that she but in fewer quantities. Whatever spent a majority of her child- you decide, be kind to yourself hood years in a church and said, and your body, and know that it “There’s definitely a purpose to is okay if you fall off the wagon. religion. There’s a service that When that happens, don’t beat provides a community and, in a yourself up over it, don’t let it sense, it brings people together.” MEGAN FENWICK / THE RIP send you spiraling out of control. One student brought up how if Get back up and try again; con- someone does not have parents, Bakersfield College student Kari Tiger, 25, and professor Reginald Williams laugh sistency will get you to where religion may be able to help in after Williams made a joke at the Gadfly Cafe event held in the Levan Center. you want to be. COMMENTARY Page 6 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017

Comic Con Review Renegade Events My frst time at the LA Comic Con News

By Karla Gutierrez Bakersfield College is now smoke-free, and people are Reporter no longer allowed to smoke tobacco on campus. Stan Lee Comic Con, also known as Los Angeles Comic Con, was held at the Los Ange- Campus Events les Convention Center Oct. 27 to 29. I’ve only been to the Bakers- Nov. 15: Open Enrollment of Medi-Cal and Covered Cali- field Comic Con, so I thought it would be interesting to go out- fornia in the Campus Center Quad from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. side of my Bakersfield bubble Nov. 15: Google for Internet Searching Workshop in L217 and go to this convention. Plus, at 2 p.m. some of my favorite people were Nov. 15: CalStateApply! Workshop in CSS 151 from 2-3 going to be there like Stan Lee p.m. and Pee-wee Herman; there were Nov. 15-18: George Orwell’s 1984 at the BC Black Box also going to be independent pro Theatre. Shows at 7:30 p.m. and a matinee on Nov. 18 at wrestlers like the Young Bucks 2 p.m. (Matt and Nick Jackson), Fale, Nov. 16: Finding Books and Ebooks Workshop at L217 at Tama Tonga, Tanga Roa, etc., 8:30 a.m. who I am a big fan of. Nov. 16: Counseling Outside the Box outside of the Cam- I thought it was going to be confusing on where everything pus Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. was, but that wasn’t the case at Nov. 16: BCSGA Workshop: How to Run an Effective all. They led people to where Meeting in CC5 at 2 p.m. they needed to go and had no- Nov. 16: “Dynamic Earth: Exploring Earth’s Climate En- ticeable signs for whatever the gine” at the BC Planetarium from 7:30-8:45 p.m. Tickets case may be. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ADRIAN GUTIERREZ are $8 for adults and $6 for seniors and children. I knew they were going to The Young Bucks and Karla Gutierrez pose for a photo at the Los Angeles Comic Con. Nov. 17: Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress have exclusive stuff like POP! Appeal Orientation in CSS 151 from 10-11 a.m. Vinyl, comic books, apparel, etc. coupons. actors like Sandy Fox who has creations. Nov. 17: Rape Aggression Defense Training Part 1 in the They were very organized with I got a bit lost on where the played various characters from The day ended with the wres- Firesode Room from 1:30-7:30 p.m. a line to get exclusive goodies. celebrities/artists were because shows like “The Simpsons,” tling panel that was held in the Nov. 18: Rape Aggression Defense Training Part 2 in the I saw really creative costumes they were hidden in the back of “Futurama,” etc. There was also main stage and that was awe- like King Boo from Mario, all the exhibitions, so I think they Susanne Blakeslee who played some because when does some- Fireside Room from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bendy from Bendy and the Ink should fix that next year. Other Wanda from “The Fairy Odd one get to see a person get put Nov. 20: CalStateApply! Workshop in CSS 151 from 10-

Machine, Teen Titans crew, etc. than that, I did get to meet the Parents.” And one I actually got through a table at a Comic Con. 11 a.m. During the time as well, Stan people I went for. I made long meet is Greg Baldwin who has It was insane. People there that Nov. 20: Transgender Day of Rememberance in the Fire- Lee was actually doing a Q&A conversation with all them and voiced characters from “Avatar: don’t watch wrestling probably side Room from 12-1 p.m. on the main stage. they were super nice. The line I The Last Airbender,” “Star Wars: thought it was weird or someone Nov. 20: Latinos Unidos Por Educacion StudOrg Meeting I finally got to the front of the had to wait the longest in was for Clone Wars,” “Samurai Jack,” should be calling 911 because in CC5 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. line and bought glow in the dark the Young Bucks because they and my personal favorite Frank there was a fight. Everyone was Nov. 20: Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress POP! Vinyl Ahsoka from “Star were probably the draw for the Fontaine from “BioShock.” safe at the end because they are Appeal Orientation in CSS 151 from 4-5 p.m. Wars Rebels”, Funko The Joker wrestling part of the convention. The cool part about Comic professionals, after all. Nov. 21: My UC Application and Personal Insight Ques- (Martha Wayne) Hot Topic Ex- It was definitely worth the wait. Cons are that people get to show- I definitely recommend any- tions Workshop in CSS 151 from 12-1 p.m. clusive, and a limited Stan Lee When waiting to meet the case their cosplays. I saw Rick one to go to one of these con- Comic Con t-shirt. I was a smart Young Bucks, I was on the look- and Morty, Samuri Jack, Bat- ventions to get their minds off of Nov. 21: Outreach Orientation in Forum 101 from 5-7 thinker knowing that I was go- out to see where else I could go man, etc. and they won prizes for things and just have fun. p.m. ing to be sucked into purchas- since their panel wasn’t until later it too. Other people got to show Nov. 22: Classes starting at 5:30 p.m. and after will not ing exclusive stuff, so I brought that day. There was a lot of voice how they made some of their be held. ***** Nov. 22: Counseling Outside the Box outside of the Cam- pus Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Concert Review Nov. 23-25: Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 27: BCSGA Legislative Affairs Power Lunch in the Fireside Room from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 27: Individual “Drop-in” Application Review in CSS Bruno Mars performance has ‘no comparison’ 45 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 27: 3D Printing Workshop in L160 from 3-5 p.m. By Jenny Brito than in the recorded versions. Nov. 27: Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Reporter He also performed songs from Appeal Orientation in CSS 151 from 4-5 p.m. his previous albums including Nov. 28: Individual “Drop-in” Application Review in CSS “Treasure,” “Just The Way You 45 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The first time I listened to Are,” and “When I Was Your Nov. 29: Open web registration begins for spring 2018. “Nothing on You,” by Bruno Man.” The last song was a par- Nov. 29: Open Enrollment of Medi-Cal and Covered Cali- Mars, I knew I would be a life- ticularly emotional one, and the fornia in the Campus Center Quad from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. long fan. In addition to his voice singer had to pause several times Nov. 29: BCSGA Workhop: How to Run an Effective that has no comparison, his to regain composure. This made Meeting in CC5 at 3 p.m. moves remind me of Michael the performance much more Nov. 29: Individual “Drop-in” Application Review in CSS Jackson. So, when my friend powerful. asked me if I wanted to go to his It is difficult to decide what 45 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. concert, I didn’t think twice. was more impressive, the music Dec. 2-8: Final exams. On Nov. 2, I traveled to Fresno or the dancing. Mars is an excel- Dec. 9: Fall session ends. for the 24K Magic World Tour. lent dancer, which was evidenced The show was scheduled for 8 by how he smoothly glided Of Campus Events p.m. at the Save Mart Center. To across the stage. His best friends be honest, I did not expect much and bandmates, the Hooligans, Nov. 10-18: “The Book of Liz” at the Empty Space at 8 from the venue considering that also helped make the show much p.m. it is Fresno, but I was wrong. Its more energetic. They danced, Nov. 10-12,17,18: “Suicide Incorporated” at the Empty location makes it an excellent jumped, and interacted with the GOOGLE IMAGES Space at 11 p.m. except for a 6 p.m. showing on Nov. 12. choice, there is plenty of park- audience often. Nov. 18,19: Bakersfield Comic Con 10th Anniversary at ing, and it can hold up to 16,000 As for the production of the the Kern County Fair Grounds from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on people. for those who wanted to grab and her voice was delightful. She show, Mars and his team have Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Mars had canceled a concert in a bite, and alcoholic beverages sounded like a younger version no comparison. They wowed Denver earlier in the week due to ranged from beers to frozen mar- of Rihanna, with song lyrics that the public with brightly colored Nov. 19: Kern County Tamale Fest at Stramler Park from a sinus infection, and I was wor- garitas. I bought a pina colada seemed to appeal to a more di- visuals and moving stage ele- 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adult tickets are $20 and kids ages 3-12 ried that he would cancel again. and headed to the merchandise verse audience. She played about ments. There were firecrackers, are $15. I realized that a thousand others booth. They were selling post- ten songs, which made many of pyrotechnics, strobe lights, and Nov. 23: Visalia Race Against Hunger 5k & 2 Mile Walk/ would be disappointed as well ers, CDs, jackets, shirts, jerseys, us a bit impatient. People wanted laser effects synchronized to the Run in Downtown Visalia from 8-11 a.m. after I arrived at the location and and even underwear with Bruno to see Bruno Mars, and it was beats. The whole thing felt like a Nov. 25: Condors Teddy Bear Toss at Rabobank Arena at saw the long lines hours before Mars’ face on them. Although taking longer than expected. huge music video, and the audi- 7 p.m. the event started. everything was beautiful, it was At 9:30 p.m., Mars hit the ence was loving it. Nov. 29: Grand Opening of Cafe Rio Mexican Grill’s Waiting in line was an expe- a bit too expensive for a broke stage, starting off the show The encore of Mars’ “Uptown new location at 200 Coffee Road at 10:30 a.m. First 300 rience itself. People of all ages college student like myself. The with “24K Magic,” one of the Funk” concluded the show, and people recieve a free meal. were in attendance, which was cheapest t-shirt was $40, and it nine songs off his latest album. the audience was showered with a pleasant surprise considering was not anything special, but, People were ecstatic, and it was gold confetti. Soon after, people my own age. They danced to yes, I bought it. hard to focus on him with all the seemed to forget that merchan- music played by a local radio After spending money on a t- screaming and singing going on dise was expensive and fought station and anxiously waited shirt that I will probably never around me. each other to purchase whatever to get in. Doors opened at 6:30 wear, I went inside and quickly Mars sang everything off his was left that would remind them p.m., which gave everyone about found my seat. The stadium was “24K Magic” album. He sang of that magical night. an hour and a half to mingle and a bit empty, but that changed beautifully despite having been Compiled by Megan Fenwick spend money. once the opening act began. Jor- ill in recent days, and his voice Social Media Editor There were plenty of options ja Smith opened for Bruno Mars, was much better and stronger *****

The Renegade Rip Write The Rip Letters should not exceed 300 words, EDITORIAL BOARD STAFF must be accompanied by a signature and the letter writer’s identity must be verified. First place for newspaper in 2011, third place in The Rip reserves the right to edit 2013, 2014, 2015 for CNPA General Excellence Editor-in-Chief...... Lizette Chavez Reporters/photographers: Alexandra letters, however, writers will be given the opportunity to revise lengthy or Ninth place for newspaper in 2016 for national Web Editor...... Brandon Cowan Apatiga, Christina Benavides, Jenny unacceptable submissions. Best of Show contest by Associated Collegiate Press Social Media Editor...... Megan Fenwick Brito, Christopher Cocay, Karla If an organization submits a letter as a group, it must be signed by only one person, Second place nationally in 2016 for website Photo Editor...... 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CONTINUED Page 7 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Annual CSUB marathon runs well It doesn’t By Alexandra Apatiga to do the things they enjoy.” Reporter According to Madrigal, the defne me sense of community and level of California State University, organization made him feel wel- Bakersfield held its 2nd Annual comed and excited to compete in Mental Health: For mental Bakersfield Marathon, half mar- the marathon. wellness and awareness athon, half marathon relay, and “There are a lot of first time 5K on Nov. 12. The full 26.2- runners participating in the mar- Our struggles are not always mile marathon course stretched athon and Bakersfield has a great visible. I have a specific learning across Bakersfield, from the running community, I’m glad I disability that affects my mental Stockdale Financial District to can get the chance to meet and health and education. When you the Panorama Bluffs right across run with all these amazing com- are a community college student, from Bakersfield College, and petitors,” said Madrigal. “What normally your goal is to gradu- had the start and finish line on really makes marathons like the ate or transfer as soon as possi- CSUB campus. one in Bakersfield worth coming ble; however, this can be difficult The event began as the first to is the people you run with, al- when you are dealing with a ever marathon in Bakersfield ways pushing you and encourag- learning disability and battling back in 2016, with the initial idea ing you to go further.” mental health issues. being to raise funds for CSUB Runners throughout the day Learning disabilities are de- scholarships. However, the idea following the start of the mara- scribed as neurologically-based quickly turned into a full-fledged thon ended their race at Finisher processing problems, accord- town-wide marathon, with doz- Village at CSUB. Volunteers and ing to Learning Disabilities As- ens of sponsors like Chevron and various vendors and tents were sociation of America. There are Dignity Health, hundreds of vol- set up to congratulate the runners a variety of learning disabilities unteers, and runners from across with medals, water, and accom- that affect students, but there are the state, nation, and globe. modations for the finishers. some well-known terms that I Runners who came out to the The marathon continued into have found ignorant. event arrived as early as 4 a.m. the late evening, as the last of the All my life I have heard the to prepare for the marathon runners crossed the finish line. term “Special Ed” thrown around alone, with running partners, or Only hours following the mara- as a joke. Over time, I grew to with running teams. While many thon’s end, plans for next year’s be ashamed of having a learn- runners had a personal or even Bakersfield Marathon were al- ing disability. The term “Special ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP charitable goal in mind while ready underway. Ed” is referred to students who running the marathon, others had Charles Brown, co-founder of Men, women and children participants of the Second Annual Bakersfield Marathon are in Special Education, and it bigger plan. the Bakersfield Marathon, ex- begin their run of the marathon at CSUB, in order, to qualify for the Boston Marathon. is additional help in schools for The Bakersfield Marathon is plained that they plan to make students who recognized as a world class run- the next Annual Bakersfield have learning ning event by the USA Track Marathon bigger and better than disabilities. & Field, the national governing this year. As a child body here in the United States “Our board of directors, vol- in elementary that oversees all track and field, unteers, and staff are the real school, I did long-distance running, and race driving force for this event, with- not like the walking events in the United out them we would never be able RS FIELD feeling of be- States. Under the USATF, the to coordinate such as large-scale ing separated Bakersfield Marathon was rec- event,” said Brown. Along with ~\t N from my ognized as a Boston-qualifying the community involvement, classmates Christina marathon and participants had Brown says they are pushing to ~ DignityHealth when they the opportunity to qualify for the improve the marathon further CJ~Mercy & Memorial Hospital< did math. I Benavides 2019 Boston Marathon. than this year’s. had to leave Despite the many participates Brown also shared that the class to go to another classroom, running locally and internation- community’s involvement, while and this is where I spent time ally, with goals and aims far and at first hesitant, has grown im- with kids that dealt with similar in between, all were determined mensely. learning disabilities as me. with one mindset – to improve “The community sees the There was always some sort themselves and enjoy the mara- value of hosting a marathon in of comfort being around these thon. Bakersfield, because it brings people because they understood Benny Madrigal, a resident exposure to a city that would what I was going through. My of Madera, CA and a marathon otherwise never be in the mind other classmates? Not so much. runner, ran the Bakersfield Half of someone outside our com- I have vivid memories of kids Marathon and placed first overall munity,” said Brown, “And our whispering when I would have in the Men’s Division. A runner already existing running groups to leave during a math lesson. I with type 1 diabetes, Madri- here in Bakersfield really helped remember in Jr. High everyone gal is a member of Team Novo us in spreading the word out to knew where the classroom was Nordisk, an American global all- other places, that mixed with for students in Special Educa- diabetes sports team of cyclists, shifting views of a marathon in tion. Although, all my other triathletes, and runners that have Bakersfield helped us in holding classes were college prep cours- members participate in event this event.” es, I felt like I was not intelligent. across the world to educate, in- Brown, who he himself is a The looks people gave me as I spire, and empowers those af- participant in activities like the walked toward that classroom is fected by diabetes. Ironman Triathlon, says that run- not forgotten. For Madrigal, this marathon ning a marathon can be the most I have not fully accepted my was a way for him to improve his exciting and dreadful experience learning disability, but I do un- abilities and prepare for future anyone can experience. derstand it more than I did when marathons such as CIM or Cali- “The most difficult aspect of I was younger. A person with a fornia International Marathon, running over 20 miles is not the learning disability is not “stu- and raise awareness for diabetes. distance, but the mental doubt pid”. We are intelligent human “November is Diabetes one can get while running, ask- beings who have a lifelong con- Awareness Month and Nov. 14 is ing themselves things like, ‘Why ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP dition we cope with. World Diabetes Day” said Mad- did I even try?’” said Brown. My learning disability has rigal, “I felt I needed to win this “But once runners can push Bakersfield resident Austin Crist crosses the finish line and places third in the 5k race. made me feel upset numerous for all those affected with diabe- past that, and cross the finish times. Often it led to emotional tes like me and inspire others to line, those few moments after- parts because you were able even know you could do,” said field Marathon is planned to breakdowns, where I was angry push themselves and find ways wards are the most beautiful to achieve a goal you didn’t Brown. The 3rd Annual Bakers- take place on Nov. 18, 2018. at myself. It can be frustrat- ing learning subjects because it looks so easy for everyone else. I would hear the same thing from every math instructor I have ever ACA: Student Health Services helps BC VET FEST: Veterans celebrate had, “Just keep practicing” or “Go to tutoring to ask for help.” students apply for healthcare on campus Continued from Page 1 I recall going to tutoring for hours here at BC, I visited my professor during office hours, Continued from Page 1 in Downtown Bakersfield. the parade, along with drill I stayed up nights practicing, The parade began at 24th squads and color guards. and even took advantage of ac- which serves low income effectively cutting its promotion- the same process with many of Street and L street and in- The streets of downtown commodations DSPS (Disabled Californians, individuals and al budget by about 90 percent. the same choices. Kern County cluded floats from a number Bakersfield were lined with Students Programs and Services) families must earn less than 138 However, Purcell says that BC really hasn’t changed.” of different local businesses spectators young and old provided me. It took a toll on my percent of the federal poverty students should not worry too “I think a lot of students are re- and clubs. High school and who came to show their ap- depression and anxiety because level. much about their health care lying on a wing and a prayer, be- Junior High school marching preciation for those who have I felt like I was not intelligent Recent attempts by congress as it currently stands. “The Af- cause they’re relatively healthy bands also performed during served. enough.The frustration, learning to repeal and replace the Afford- fordable Care Act really has not people and it’s difficult to say, disabilities bring to students, like able Care Act have left many changed in any substantive way ‘if I’m healthy and I haven’t had me, is hard to manage, but it does uncertain about the future of since last year,” he said. “So the to access services, maybe I can not mean we are not able to over- their health care, and the United services that people signed up keep being lucky,’’ said Purcell. come obstacles. Although I’m States Centers for Medicare and for and became familiar with “Many students are a flat tire horrible at math, I have found Medicaid Services announced on during the 2016-17 plan year, away from having to drop out. Poll : Russian Collusion my strengths in writing. Aug. 31 that it would be reducing they’re going to get when they And in the same way, many stu- Those of us with learning dis- advertising for ACA enrollment sign up again. When they sign dents are an appendicitis away abilities are not abnormal, and from $100 million to $10 million, up again this year, it’s essentially from having to drop out.” many of us go on to have suc- cessful lives. There are plenty Do you think more members of of creative minds that have this condition. Daniel Radcliffe, well-known MARIJUANA: City Council closes local pot shops the Trump administration should for the “Harry Potter” series, struggled in school due to his Continued from Page 1 be indicted for allegedly colluding learning disability, according to GreatSchools. He is not the only Bakersfield Police Depart- Fifteen grams of cocaine, fire- dollars a year. with Russia? entertainer either, there are sev- ment. During the sweep, it was arms, and upward of $20,000 Nevertheless, the city coun- eral others, such as award-win- discovered that many of the dis- cash were also confiscated dur- cilmembers who voted for the ning director, Steven Spielberg, pensaries were stealing power ing the raids. ban claim that they are merely who was not diagnosed with from neighboring businesses It is estimated that enforcing representing the desires of their NO YES Dyslexia until he was 60. and were in violation of a num- the ordinance will cost anywhere constituents.While the major- You do not have to be famous ber of building codes. More than from $1.2 million to $2.7 mil- ity of Californians voted yes on (3) 33% (6) 67% to be successful. Anyone can 650 pounds of marijuana were lion dollars a year, while allow- Prop 64, allowing it to pass in have a learning disability. We confiscated during the sweep. ing shops to exist and taxing and last November’s elections, the might have to work twice as hard Eighteen arrests were made, in- regulating them would gain the majority of Kern County voters for what we want, but we are just cluding four for felony charges. county more than $30 million voted against it. like everyone else. SPORTS Page 8 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 BC Volleyball beats West LA 3-0

By Alexandra Apatiga loss will end their season. Sikes share her thoughts on win- Reporter “Tonight’s game demonstrated ning the final game before play- the team’s exceptional rhythm offs. The Bakersfield College vol- and focus that will be crucial go- “We all played unified as a leyball team will be going to the ing into the playoffs,” said Fer- team, the energy was high and Western State Conference after reira, “You could feel a sense of we were giving constantly to one a decisive win against West Los urgency because of the stakes another,” said Sikes. Angeles College Nov. 10, with a tonight and that urgency will be According to Sikes, going into solid victory 3-0. following us as we enter the con- the playoffs she and her team- The Renegades won all sets ference.” mates will have to prepare them- with ease, scoring 25-4 in the Ferreira says that the team’s selves mentally and continue in first set, 25-12 in the second, and seat in the conference bracket keeping their focus and rhythm 25-8 in the final set. will be revealed Nov. 16, as well in sync for the conference. Yet West LA was the Renegades as who they will be competing despite the stake they faced at final opponent keeping them be- against. Friday’s game and the chal- tween a share of the WSC-South As for Friday night’s game, lenges they are bound to face at Conference, making BC’s efforts the team was led by Alex Paris the conference, Sikes shared her to win all the more important, a and Rachel Hoover, with 14 and pride in her team coming so far. mindset that BC volleyball coach 10 kills respectively. Haley San- “I’ve seen every one of my Carl Ferreira and his team all chez followed suit with 13 digs. teammates grow and develop in shared. Altogether, the BC volleyball different ways and it make me According to Ferreira, now team had a hitting average of feel like a proud mom, watching that the BC volleyball team is set .470 percent, with 6 blocks, and them all come into their own.” to enter the WSC-South Confer- a total of 34 digs and 22 aces. ence 16-brakect, even a single BC Sophomore and Setter Ali

ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP Ali Sikes saves the volleyball from hitting the court, allowing the Bakersfield College Bakersfield College Volleyball player Alex Paris prepares to spike the volleyball, jumping Renegades to win a point for the play during the home game match against West LA. midair, on West Los Angeles College during a play. Horack is the most efcient in CA

By Karla Gutierrez Reporter

Bakersfield College volley- ball coach Carl Ferreira said that Brooke Horack is ranked the most efficient middle blocker in the state. Horack has been play- ing volleyball since the 6th grade and has been playing since. “When I was little, I did gym- nastics and that didn’t really work out, so my dad said ‘How about volleyball’ and I said ‘okay.’ I played club. I played in a club called BBC and did [Ba- kersfield Club] Jamba club my senior year.” Horack mentions that one of the challenges of playing vol- leyball is that it’s a mental sport. When playing or practicing, it’s important to have the right mind- set. “Coach Carl helps me with having that mindset,” Horack said. “His focus in volleyball is to make us be the best version of ourselves. [For example,] we meditate before every practice which eliminates distractions. He likes the relationships, so we work on relationship and really ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP serving each other. I think get- Brooke Horack readies herself for an upcoming play as team mate Alex Paris hits the ting your mindset before games ball over the net toward West Los Angeles College, where a West LA player tries to block ALEXANDRA APATIGA / THE RIP like saying you’re tired or say- at the home game on Nov. 10 inside the Bakerfield College gymnasium. Brooke Horack attempts to block the ball midair. ing maybe you’re thinking about some test. Like really what we the mental aspect of it. who helps them recover, which on what they need. It’s like a animals because for her they’re trying to focus on is volleyball When discussing what kind she mentions is really helpful. hundred zero game. If I’m do- like her therapy. She does want because that’s really what we of diet they have to have Horack “The schedule is we practice ing something for a teammate, to continue playing volleyball at control. We’re in that moment. said, “We don’t really have a every day from four o’clock to I’m not expected anything back. a four-year institution, but not So yeah, he really wants us to diet. Coach says that 80 percent seven o’clock in the afternoon, Normally with our team and how professionally because she wants focus on the moment.” of our diet should be good. So but I’m usually here at three we work, they are giving some- to focus on being a veterinarian. Horack stated that volleyball if you eat all day, healthy, then because I go to Mike for treat- thing back because that is how When talking about who in- practice is more of them work- it’s fine if you have ice cream at ment. Wednesday and Friday our team is. We are always just spired her the most, she said, “I ing as a team and working on the night. Mostly when we go out of are games at 6 p.m. We normally working together because that’s would say my parents and Carl. chemistry. She adds that being town with [Coach Ferreira], we have tournaments in the begin- how volleyball is. Like if you I didn’t know I wanted to play there for each other is important go to whole foods or stuff like ning of the season, but those al- want to be successful, we have to until Carl was like ‘you need because they are like a family. that.” ready passed,” said Horack. have good team chemistry.” to play’ in good way,” laughs Focusing on that is when, as she She comments that they work- When speaking on what she Horack is currently majoring Horack. “My parents, they al- mentions, they play the best be- out with Zack Peters, who is the has learned about teamwork in animal science. She says that ways wanted me to play. They cause they are not just playing as Director of Strength and Condi- she said, “It’s not about you or she has wanted to be a veteri- like watching me play. They go players, but as a unit. tioning, to strengthen their mus- it’s not about me. It’s about your narian since she was very little, to every single one of my games. KARLA GUTIERREZ / THE RIP Horack remarks that the most cles. Then they go to the assistant teammate and it’s about really and she loves animals. She al- They don’t miss a game, even if challenging part of volleyball is athletic trainer, Mike Medeiros, serving them and helping them ways seemed to want to helped it’s out of town they’ll go.” Brooke Horack smiles as she poses for a photograph. SPORTS Page 9 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 Bakersfeld College wrestling wins 25-18

MEGAN FENWICK / THE RIP BC freshman Jeremy Maas is lifted into the air by a West Hills College player during the wrestling match that took place at Bakersfield College on Nov. 2.

MEGAN FENWICK / THE RIP MEGAN FENWICK / THE RIP Nicolas Coria, a BC sophomore, pushes a West Hills College player to the ground. BC college freshman Emmett Kuntz holds a West Hills College player against the mat. RENEGADE ADVENTURE Page 10 The Renegade Rip www.therip.com Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 I had a cool time ice skating and falling at the Ice Center

By Christopher Cocay Reporter

I really love skating, I started skating when I was 7, I had my own roller skates and it took me a week to learn how to use the skating shoes as far I remem- ber. In January of 2017, I had a thought of wanting to skate again, then visited the place and I skated for the first time in 14 years, it was at Brimhall Rd. (Rollerama Roller Rinks) I started skating there every once a week. Just when I thought I was good at skating, I decided to ice skate, because I feel like a pro when us- ing roller skates. I thought it would be just as easy, but ice skating is ten times more difficult than using roller skates, it was my first time ice skating, I came in unprepared at Bakersfield Ice Sports Center. When I got at the ice skat- ing rink, I felt really cold, it was like I was inside a huge fridge, because I thought it was just a normal skating center. I did not bring any protection gear. I couldn’t move evenly when I was at the rink because I thought if I made a single wrong move, I would get hurt, plus, the skating shoes were kind of uncomfort- able because I wasn’t used to wearing those kind of shoes. I was so scared and excited at the same time because it was something new for me, some- MELISSA PURYEAR / THE RIP thing I’ve never done. When I Christopher Cocay smiles at the camera as he ties his shoelaces tighter after taking a fall when his rented ice skating shoes was a little kid, I used to watch loosened while ice skating on the local ice rink at the Bakersfield Ice Sports Center on Oct. 23. “Disney on Ice” shows, and the thing that pushed me to do ice skating was the “High School Musical on Ice”. I thought I could do the stunts that I saw on that ice show once I’m on the rink, but I couldn’t. I did not even want to move when I was on the rink. The thought of leaving crossed my mind, but I also remembered that I paid $11 just to do ice skating, so instead of thinking that it was too diffi- cult to skate on ice, I challenged myself to learn how to do it by taking step by steps. What I did was watch the other ice skaters and I imitated what they were doing. And when I felt that I was getting better, I pushed myself to be fast, and I ended up slipping on the floor, I was com- pletely shocked. I even felt a massive pain on my hands, not just that, my back got hurt. I realized that I did not tightened my shoe laces, so I took a break, tightened my laces, and went back to the rink as if I did not fall. Even though my feet were in pain, I continued skating, it was somewhat fun and scary at the same time. I spoke with one of the instructors of the ice center, and I asked them if I they teach ice skating lessons, and she said they do. I’m interested in taking ice skating classes because I want to be good at doing it, I want to be a professional ice skater like the people I see on TV or the “High School Musical On Ice” performers. MELISSA PURYEAR / THE RIP I took a lot of selfies using my front camera on my phone, and Christopher Cocay steadies himself with his hands as he crawls to the sidelines so he can get back on his feet after a fall I also bothered the other skaters resulting in his loose laces made him land painfully on his knees at the ice rink in the Bakersfield Ice Sports Center. to take pictures of me, I was that excited. I could not wait to show I took two ibuprofens and rest- my pictures to my friends and ed in my car for few minutes. It Christene Hayes, an ask them to skate with me in the was exhausting, but I really want ice skating instructor, future. to do it again. encourages and Around 3:10 p.m., the skat- It is something I recommend instructs Christopher ing rink turned slippery, I felt to people who love to skate, but I uncomfortable and did not want would first recommend, that they Cocay on how to better to skate anymore because I did should take classes before doing keep his balance, while not want to get hurt again, once it. on the ice. (left) is enough. When I got home, I was still I stopped staking, since the having body pain. The ibuprofen MELISSA PURYEAR place would close at 3:30 p.m. did not fully kick in. I checked THE RIP anyway. my phone and I looked at the I went to my car and my whole selfies that I took one by one, I Christopher Cocay body was in pain from the fall deleted the ugly shots of course gets steady on his feet that I suffered. I had a bad head- and I saved the decent ones. after a painful tumble ache because of the cold tem- I realized that I really had fun perature. even though I ended up getting on the ice that resulted I’m pretty sure it was brain hurt and having body pain, I lit- because of loose skates freeze. Like the kind you get erally took a lot of selfies which at the Bakersfield Ice from drinking a milkshake too I don’t usually do. And I plan on Sports Center. (right) fast, I couldn’t even notice my getting my own ice skates soon feet’s discomfort because of the so I do not have to rent shoes MELISSA PURYEAR whole body pain. when I go back. THE RIP