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SPORTS
l WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2011
WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE
Football
Women’s basketball
DEFENSIVE END
GUARD
‘Hot head’ grows into true leader By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR
mlastra.advocate@gmail.com
People with positive attitudes tend to build strong connections with others and get ahead in life, while those who possess poor character traits are more than likely to have limited opportunities. However, people with character flaws can eventually change their ways through maturation, motivation and self discipline. For sophomore Comet defensive end and The Advocate’s Male Athlete of the Year Niko Aumua, that developing character has been something he experienced in his two years at Contra Costa College — going from a shorttempered athlete in 2009 to a mature and humble player in 2010 with the help “I knew of football coach Alonzo Carter. (Aumua) “I was a hot head back in the would be able day,” Aumua said. to dominate on “I never had a defense, but coach who really cared about me and he exceeded what I did on and everyone’s off the field.” The 22-year-old expectations of San Jose native came to CCC in him.” 2009 after taking a year off after graduAlonzo Carter, ating from Alameda football coach High School in 2008, where he played wide receiver. While Aumua possessed talent from the receiver position with his tall 6 foot 6 inch frame, he failed to gain any recognition at CCC from four-year colleges due to his poor on-the-field behavior. In fact, during his freshman season at CCC he was suspended for the remainder of the year by coaches when he was involved in a physical altercation with an opposing player from Hartnell College. “I remember me and the other player exchanged some words and he challenged me to a fight,” Aumua said. “I refused to back down from it and the fight resulted in the cops coming onto the field and escorting me from the game.” Aumua said that part of the blame for his bad behavior was the fact that the team was generally undisciplined and was experiencing a frustrating year, finishing 1-9. Things began to change for Aumua upon the arrival of Carter, the former Berkeley and McClymonds high school football coach who motivated the athlete to change his conduct. “(Prior to coaching the Comets) I knew Niko was a wild guy, but I told him to reconcile his issues with (Athletic Director) John Wade,” Carter said. “His bad attitude needed to be fixed because he couldn’t continue to head in that direction.” Another change Carter presented to
Height: Position: Year: High School: Home Town:
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keep a smile on your face. That’s why I keep her in my circle.” After a loss to Laney College in the first game of conference play, the Comets ran off four straight wins. But after breaking her nose in a 66-64 overtime loss at Los Medanos By Rodney Woodson College, Capoot had to sit out the next game STAFF WRITER and watch her team lose by 20 points to rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com Solano Community College. The women’s basketball team’s pre-sea“It really was tough not being able to get son schedule was rough during 2010-11. out there and play when I was hurt,” she said. The squad struggled and only managed to The hardest part about being sidelined and win four out of 14 games, including a 56- reduced to cheerleading was watching her point beat down at the hands of highly-rated team lose. “We win as a team and we lose as a team,” Fullerton College. However, Contra Costa College turned she said. Jefferson said, “Without her we weren’t things around at the start of conference play and finished with a Bay Valley Conference where we needed to be as a team. Once a team record of 9-3, good enough for second place builds together it’s hard to play well when in the conference, just one game out of first someone is missing and she is one of our best players.” and a 13-14 overall record. DeBolt said, ”When she was hurt we were The turnabout was due in large part to the improved quality of play from 20-year-old a different team. She was a good, all around, freshman guard, and The Advocate’s 2010-11 solid player and a good worker. We lost both games with her out of the lineup.” Female Athlete of the Year, Jamie Capoot. Capoot was the starting point guard and “When I heard that I was the Female Athlete of the Year I was surprised,” Capoot when she went down, the squad had trouble said. “There are great athletes here at CCC. It advancing the ball up the court. With her gone CCC particularly struggled against a fullfeels good to be recognized. I feel honored.” court-press defense and Her hard work during the ball over often. practice paid dividends in “(Capoot) works hard turned Capoot said she is more games as she led the team in points and assists, as in practice and plays comfortable playing shooting guard or small forward, well as being second on hard in games conbut the point guard position the team in rebounds and steals. She was named to stantly. She makes the is nothing new to her. At Will C. Wood High the All-BVC First Team. “She is a fascinating team want to play hard School in Vacaville she player,” Comet forward and just watching her was a varsity level starter at point guard for four years. Monay Ray said. “She She was the Monticello works hard in practice encourages me to bring and plays hard in games my ‘A’ game and com- Empire League MVP in her sophomore year and constantly. She makes the pete.” she also earned All-League team want to play hard and honors throughout high just watching her encourMonay Ray, school. ages me to bring my “A” women’s basketball team forward Playing point guard at game and compete.” the junior college level was Comet forward Allessandra Jefferson said, “I really look up a bit difficult for her in the beginning, but she to her skills and game-play.” She also said that said she became more comfortable with it as she has known Capoot for three years and that the season progressed. Basketball has been a part of Capoot’s life she is a very determined, hard working person since she was a young girl. who never gives up. “I’ve been playing basketball since I was Capoot’s play is not only held in high opinabout 9 years old when I played for the ion by teammates but by her coach as well. CCC women’s basketball coach Paul Vacaville Vengeance,” Capoot said. The Vacaville Vengeance is a girl’s basDeBolt said, “She was our glue. She held us together at both ends of the court. She han- ketball program that operates out of Solano dled the opponents’ pressure, ran our offense County. Capoot said, “I’ve grown up with basketand did a great job defensively.” On the court, the 5-foot-10-inch guard ball, I love the intensity involved with it and I is well respected for her determination and love the pace of the game.” Capoot said before coming to CCC she skills, in and off the court she is adored by went to Solano Community College for one her peers for her enjoyable personality. “She is a ‘ride-or-die’ teammate and year where she didn’t play basketball for the friend,” Ray said as she laughed about her first time since she was a child. “I felt like a different person when I didn’t comment. “She is a very funny and reasonable person. I enjoy being around her. She’s play basketball. It took a mental and physical toll on me. Not playing made me realize how a cool friend.” Jefferson said, “She’s goofy and fun to be much love I have for the game.” In regards to her future, Capoot said she around. She is the type of person who makes you want to be around her because she will plans on transferring to a four-year college as long as she is close to her family and attending a good college. As for basketball, Capoot said she will play for as long as she can.
Freshman helps spirit, encourages teammates
Profile
Profile
6 feet 6 inches Defensive lineman Sophomore Alameda High School San Jose
Height: Position: Year: High School: Home Town:
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Respected Comet holds season intact
Aumua was his playing position, moving him to the other side of the ball placing by him at defensive end. Aumua took the coach’s challenge head on and became a gym rat over the summer, bulking up his muscle for his new position. “I coached against Niko when I was at Berkeley and he was at Alameda,” Carter said. “(Although he was a good receiver) he was tough on us on the defensive side of the ball too and I wanted him to get back to that same level of aggression he had (on defense).” Responsibility began to set in for Aumua as he was also named a team captain. “I knew this year wouldn’t be a bad one,” Aumua said. “We (as a team) erased our past and looked at the season as a rebirth of the CCC football program.” Aumua responded well at his defensive end position and the other roles Carter placed on him as he was consistently all over the field rushing opposing quarterbacks, catching touchdown passes as a receiver, chasing down kick returners on special teams and even hiking the ball to the punter. “I knew he would be able to dominate on defense, but he exceeded everyone’s expectations of him,” Carter said. “He does so much and is a very versatile player.” The sophomore finished the year leading the team in tackles (63), interceptions (three), sacks (12) and fumble recoveries (two). His sack total and tackles for losses (25) led the Bay Valley Conference. “He was our best defensive lineman but he still worked hard like the rest of the team,” freshman defensive lineman Floyd Pellom said. “He always set a good example for us.” Through his hard work Aumua was named Bay Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year and the BVC First Defensive Team. Despite all his success on the field, Aumua’s biggest reward came in the form a full ride athletic scholarship to Washington State University. “Before this year I never had a Division I school come to any of my practices,” Aumua said. “When Carter came to CCC he made football a reality to me.” Aumua was described by teammates as an inspiration and a humble person. “He was the most laid back captain, but he always came through when we needed him, whether it be catching a touchdown pass or hiking the ball,” freshman kicker Jose Munguia said. “He wasn’t the type to put us freshman players through first-year hazing like most sophomores would.” Other players agreed. “He was older than most of us but he never caused a scene when the team got out of line,” freshman defensive back Alonzo Cudjo said. “He was a cool teammate to have.” While Aumua has his hopes set on reaching the NFL some day, he said the greatest accomplishment he achieved at CCC was his maturity as a player and person. “(Niko) is a great kid. He bought into my program and followed the script,” Carter said. “If he stays on course, things will work out for him.”
The 2010 Bay Valley Conference Defensive MVP showed his versatility this season and helped renew the football program into a threat in the BVC. Aumua led the Comets in sacks with 12, tied for first on the team with one defensive touchdown, was fourth on the squad with three interceptions and he also led the team with 25 tackles for loss. Aumua had three fumble recoveries, five passes defensed, caught three offensive touchdowns and earned All-BVC First Team honors.
SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE
Proud stance — Defensive end Niko Aumua and point guard Jamie Capoot have been named as The Advocate’s Athletes of the Year for their superior game play during the 2010-11 year. Aumua will transfer to Washington State University while Capoot is looking forward to her sophomore season with the Comets.
FOOTBALL
H ONORABLE M ENTIONS
Kenneth Henry
Jeffery Anderson
Forward
Quarterback
The freshman striker was able to establish himself as an important member of the men’s soccer team in 2010. Henry improved his game after coach Nikki Ferguson took over the team with the leave of absence by coach Rudy Zeller. Henry displayed his solid dribbling skills and quickness to slash through the field to connect on goals.
The freshman quarterback was a sparkplug for the football team as he was named to the BVC’s Offensive First Team. Anderson led the Comet offense throwing for 18 touchdowns and more than 2,000 yards for the year. Anderson hopes he can continue his contributions to help take his team to a bowl game next season.
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NIKO AUMUA
Team captain tackles, fixes attitude problem
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MEN’S BASKETBALL
Bobby Ward Guard
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Ward finished first on the team in scoring and managed to record two 30-point games. His best performance of the season was the season finale against College of Marin in the Gymnasium. The sophomore guard scored a season high 32 points and his clutch 3-point shooting helped to seal the Marin win in double overtime.
5 feet 10 inches Guard Freshman Will C. Wood High School Vacaville
Capoot scored a season high 22 points in two games this season. Her most impressive game statistically was against Mendocino College when she dominated on both ends of the floor totaling 22 points, 11 assists, 16 rebounds (14 defensive) and four steals. This was one of the two triple-double games she had this season, both of them against Mendocino. In the other triple-double game she finished with 12 points, 11 assists, four steals and a season-high of 21 rebounds. She was named to the All-BVC First Team.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
BASEBALL
Monay Ray
Chris Lovejoy
Ray managed to hold her own for the women’s basketball team as she led the Comets and the BVC in rebounds (11.4) per game. The sophomore forward, who transferred from Ohlone College, finished fourth on the team in scoring (10.8 per game). Ray provided veteran leadership to her young teammates and was named First Team All-BVC.
The freshman pitcher showed his durability during the season pitching a total of 98 innings, second most in the Bay Valley Conference. While Lovejoy was inconsistent in some games as evidenced by his 6-6 record and 3.77 ERA (earned run average), he managed to make First Team All-BVC.
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PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
B8 THE ADVOCATE
l WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2011
SCENE
God of thunder makes solid debut
take the throne of Asgard, which leads to Thor’s banishment to Earth. Loki lives in the shadow of his older brother and deals with an identity criBy Dariush Azmoudeh sis that makes him believe he ONLINE EDITOR dazmoudeh.advocate@gmail.com is less accepted by his father. By his actions in the movie Stories that chronicle the he is attempting to be underorigins of comic book charstood and accepted. acters are either made or The characters and stobroken when that character ryline play well to the hand makes the transition to the of the director, Kenneth big screen. With Thor’s movie Branagh, who is known for debut, the Marvel character his works in acting and directmakes a thunderous entrance ing Shakespearean pieces. on a well-adapted storyline. The theme of the movie, one The vibe from watching brother attempting to take the “Thor” can easily be comthrone of the other, ties well pared to the first “Iron Man” into Branagh’s strengths. movie as both characters are Despite the fact that the sent into a personal evolution origin story of Thor in the to understand what it takes to movie differs from the original be a hero. comic book, the storyline is What is seen in both movkept simple and direct. In the ies is the powerful, arrogant, comics, Thor is cast down to main character thrown into Earth, without any memory, a situation that makes them into the pre-existing body of powerless. But it is in this Donald Blake, and it is only situation that the character when he touches Mjolnir that learns the true meaning of his he regains his memory and power and uses it in a nonpower. selfish way to help another. The visual effects in the Chris Hemsworth plays the movie are great. They capture god of thunder, Thor, who the feel of Asgard, showing is banished to Earth from it is a kingdom of a mystiAsgard after nearly becoming cal realm. And the Asgardian king. He then provokes a war costuming looks great as well, with the Frost Giants in retali- playing well to the theme of ation for them invading his the world. kingdom. There is a lot of action in Anthony Hopkins plays the film, with the first fight Odin, the king of between Thor and the Asgard and the father moviereview Frost Giants being the of Thor and Loki. He best. The other fights banishes Thor for are good, but audience attacking the Frost members are left feeling Giants against his they don’t live up to the orders. “Thor” opener. On Earth, Thor ★★★★★ The only problems Starring: Chris meets Jane Foster, with the movie are that Hemsworth, played Natalie Natalie Portman, Thor wears his helmet Anthony Hopkins Portman, who helps only once in the entire by: him get accustomed to Directed Kenneth Branagh movie, and Foster Earth and tries to help Genre: Action appears too giddy him get powers and at times when she is his hammer, Mjolnir. around Thor. The antagonist of The movie does a good the film is Loki, the younger job of introducing the charbrother of Thor, who is played acter, as well as including by Tom Hiddleston. Loki, S.H.I.E.L.D., without overknown as the Norse god of shadowing the main character. mischief, lives up to his title When S.H.I.E.L.D. appeared and arranges a in “Iron Man 2” last year, it plan to took some of the story away from the main character, but in “Thor” they were used better as an obstacle for Thor. Thor may not be as popular as some of the other characters who have been portrayed on the big screen, like Spiderman or the X-Men, but the outcome of this movie will boost the character’s popularity, similar to the way Iron Man’s frame rose after his movie. And, of course, the movie ties into the Avengers, as Thor is one of the key members. When the Destroyer arrives on Earth, a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent asks, “Is it one of Stark’s?” referring to Tony Stark from Iron Man. When discussing gamma radiation, Dr. Erik Selvig suggests he should send an e-mail to a doctor he knows has dealt with it, referring to Dr. Bruce Banner who is the Hulk. Also, the S.H.I.E.L.D. agent who chooses a bow and arrow over a gun to use to stop Thor is Hawkeye. Fans should stay around for the after-credits scene to see the one-eyed Samuel Jackson character, Nick Fury. With “Thor” following a great formula, the attention now turns to “First Avenger” to finish the summer on a good note for Marvel.
PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE
7
Football Preview | 2010
Schedule Sept. 11 vs. Monterey Peninsula 32-18 W Sept. 17 at Diablo Valley 27-20 L Saturday vs. Los Medanos 1 p.m. Oct. 2 at Mendocino 1 p.m. Oct. 9 vs. Gavilan 1 p.m. Oct. 16 vs. Redwoods 1 p.m. Oct. 23 at American River 1 p.m. Oct. 30 vs. Solano 1 p.m. Nov. 6 at Shasta 5 p.m. Nov. 13 at Yuba 1 p.m.
Last season by the numbers Overall record 1-9 Conference record 0-4 Conference finish fifth
Coach Carter hopes to erase squad’s ugly past, program expecting positive change By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR
With a new coach, a strong recruiting class and a newfound hunger to win, the Contra Costa College football team looks eager to change its reputation and improve on last season’s 1-9 record. Alonzo Carter enters his first season as coach with hopes of changing the reputation of the football program and moving his players on to four-year colleges. “My biggest goal is for 95 percent of my sophomores to graduate this (upcoming) spring,” Carter said. “I’m trying to move these kids to four-year schools, and if I can mesh the winning with that it would be good.” The former McClymonds and Berkeley high school coach took over the Comets coaching position in January, replacing interim coach David Johnson. When first coming to CCC, Carter said he wanted to reshape, rejuvenate and put life back into a football program that has not claimed first place in the Bay Valley Conference for 10 years. “I want to shake off last season’s skeletons and try to move this team forward,” Carter said. “I’m selling these kids a new Comet football era and I’m challenging them to create a new history.” History is something that the Comets want to move on from after suffering a gloomy 2009 season when they managed only one win. CCC was blown out in nearly every game last year as it struggled to establish any offensive control, forcing the defense to stay on the field for the majority of the games. “Last year wasn’t the best of times,” sophomore linebacker Josh Richardson said. “Obviously we had a bad record but (we didn’t play as) a team. Everybody played as individuals.” Chemistry and discipline also played huge factors in CCC’s one-win season last year as many players seemed apathetic toward their responsibilities, as was witnessed by players giving up during several games when trailing by a large margin. “I knew it would be a tough challenge to come here to change the team,” Carter said. “One of the advantages I have is that I was going to school here while last
Assistant coaches
season’s football team would be practicing so I got to see the team’s work ethic and practice preparation before I actually got the job.” Carter hit the offseason well by reeling in several freshmen recruits and bringing back many sophomore players to help deliver a winning spirit to the squad. “I have three players who played on the 0-10 team (in 2008) who want to come out and win,” Carter said. “All the sophomores have accepted the challenge I offered them in changing this program and have embraced the freshman well.” Players see the change that Carter has brought to the Comets as they are excited on what the season holds for them. “Coach McDermott and coach Johnson did not demand perfection from us and gave us (little) discipline. Everything was chaotic,” sophomore linebacker Noah Coogler (who played in the 0-10 season in 2008) said. “With coach Carter, he actually demands perfection and discipline from us and he also is strict on us during practice.” “He definitely changed the work ethic of this team,” freshman defensive back Alonzo Cudjo said. “We have to play hard and stay hungry if we want to win.” The Comets responded well to Carter’s demands as they won their first game of the season 32-18 against Monterey Peninsula College on Sept. 11. Many players on the young squad said that their main goal is to win the BVC championship and make it to a bowl game. “If we can compete at a high level, we can play more than 10 games this year,” freshman quarterback Jeffery Anderson said. “I feel that once we are at our apex we will be unstoppable.” Despite losing Friday’s game against Diablo Valley College 27-20, the Comets continue to have their heads held high and look to improve during the course of the season. “Anything can happen in a season so you have to be prepared for any challenge,” Carter said. “Every team wants to be undefeated but I just want to win the conference and be in the hunt for a bowl game.” Contact Malcolm Lastra at mlastra. advocate@gmail.com.
Key players
Freshman quarterback displays leadership and throwing power as he begins his CCC career.
Coogler
The sophomore former receiver brings size and speed to his new position at defensive end.
Anderson
Aumua
Green First-year running back brings toughness and power to the Comets’ running game.
Coach Alonzo Carter enters his first year as coach of the Comets with hopes of changing the program’s losing reputation. Carter brings a winning mentality to CCC and he led the Comets to their first win in their season opener.
Coogler brings solid tackling and ball hawking skills to the Comets as a firstyear defensive back.
George Pye Keith Higgins Ondine Kilker Marcus Webb
Damon Nails Charles Smith Alfonzo Tucker Jason Walton
Carter
CCC looks forward to new beginnings
Coach’s profile
Vince Bordelon Anthony Jackson Scott Glicsberg Courtney Anderson
Roster 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 34 35 38 40 41 42 44 45 46 47 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 58 59 61 62 69 79 80 81 82 83 85 86 88 90 91 93 94 95 98 99
Najee Lovett wide receiver freshman Jordan Morrow wide receiver freshman Demarion Keyes quarterback sophomore Cameron Fuller defensive back sophomore Kenneth Green wide receiver sophomore Cloridion Kennedy defensive back freshman Devin Brown defensive back freshman Keenan Coogler defensive back freshman Isaac Goins wide receiver freshman Anthony Harrold-Taylor defensive back freshman Noah Coogler linebacker sophomore Kyle Tobler kicker/quarterback freshman Kevin Aguirre wide receiver freshman Anthony Beaver defensive back freshman James Zeigler defensive back sophomore Jeffery Anderson quarterback freshman Antoine Williams wide receiver freshman Niko Aumua defensive end sophomore Quntarius Moultrie defensive back freshman Jovontae Johnson defensive back freshman Arthur Boado linebacker freshman William Hartfield- Peoples running back sophomore Keon Burden fullback sophomore Sherard Allen running back sophomore Carl Yates running back freshman Leroy Green running back freshman Phillip Henderson defensive back freshman Keith Bryant running back sophomore Adrian Pyles defensive back freshman Jamier Malone linebacker freshman Tate Mustin running back freshman Anthony Arguello linebacker freshman James Hines running back freshman Ori Onn kicker/punter freshman Alonzo Cudjo defensive back freshman Javarri Fifer defensive back freshman Donald Hogan linebacker sophomore Emmanuel Reed running back sophomore Reggie Glover tight end freshman Stephon Cox-Gilmore linebacker sophomore Jonathan Shipley linebacker freshman Marcelo Magdaleno-Medina linebacker sophomore Hudari Murray Jr. offensive line freshman Adewale Kehinde linebacker sophomore Antoine Perkins defensive line freshman Mark Alvarado offensive line freshman Marcus McClarty offensive line freshman Jerry Smith defensive end freshman Floyd Pellom defensive line freshman Husani Burton linebacker freshman Lloyd Pellom offensive line freshman Edgar Vega offensive line sophomore Juan Hernandez offensive line sophomore Justin Morrow defensive line sophomore DeAndre Ward offensive line freshman Kevin Hal tight end freshman Michael Glover wide receiver freshman Tyler Thomas wide receiver freshman Jose Munguia kicker freshman Jeffery Deavers tight end freshman Octavius Jackson linebacker freshman Kenyon Walden offensive line freshman Michael Montgomery defensive line sophomore Alexander Hamilton defensive end freshman Carlos Garcia-Navarrete defensive line freshman Chukwueb Denchukwu defensive line sophomore Jamaal White defensive line sophomore Kameuren Spencer defensive line freshman Cardelleous Snell defensive line freshman
A12 THE ADVOCATE
l WEDNESDAY, OCT. 27, 2010
SCENE
Pain presents comedy Slapstick style laughs continue to entertain
it off, tasers and cow prods hanging from the ceiling. By Dariush Azmoudeh The movie ASSOCIATE EDITOR also contains With the return of Johnny Knoxville, Bam scenes that would Margera, Steve-O and the warning to not per- make one lose his or her appetite. Steve-O form the stunts done in the movie, the audiusually is the go-to-guy for ence members prepared themselves for the these stunts, such as the “Portadventures of “Jackass 3D.” a-Potty Bungee,” or when he Returning to the big screen, the third had to drink fellow “Jackass” installment of the “Jackass” movies makes member Preston Lacy’s sweat, audiences cringe, gag and laugh through an which causes half of the audience to hour and a half ride of stunt after ridiculous gag and Steve-O himself to throw stunt. up. In the entire film, Steve-O Going into the theaters, viewers know probably throws up at what they are getting themmoviereview least five times. selves into when they decide to Steve-O also see “Jackass 3D.” They are not appears in “Beehive expecting a storyline or charTetherball” with acter development, but a movie Dave England to go see, enjoy with friends “Jackass 3D” where the two basiand talk about for weeks to ★★★★★ cally play tetherball come. Starring: Johnny with a beehive. In an attempt to go bigKnoxville, Bam Margera, Steve-O One classic ger, the movie is filmed in by: Jeff moment is when 3D, which through the glasses Directed Tremaine Chris Pontius dressprovided gives the film a high Genre: Comedy es up as a gorilla to quality look with objects flyscare Margera’s paring toward the camera. ents, Phil and April. Unfortunately, it seems Another sequence includes like the movie relies too much on 3D and high-speed cameras for its opening and clos- “Jackass” member Jason Acuña, better known as “Wee Man” for his dwarfism, geting sequences, as everything is done in slow motion. In comparison to the previous movie ting into an all-dwarf bar fight that includes dwarf policemen coming in to break up the openings — the giant shopping cart going downhill in the first movie and the stampede fight, followed by dwarf paramedics carrying someone out in a stretcher. of bulls through the suburbs in the second The ending credits give a nice touch to the movie — this movie has the weakest one. movie, showing the history of “Jackass” and Other than the opening and closing sequences, the rest of the movie does not rely the memories the cast had together with the much on 3D, and after a while viewers forget song “Memories” by Weezer playing in the background. they are watching in 3D. It is great to see the “Jackass” cast back One of the more memorable clips involves together after not seeing them since late 2007 “Jackass” member Ryan Dunn re-enacting a in the straight-to-DVD release of “Jackass classic Maxell tape commercial behind a jet with its turbine blowing wind at high speeds 2.5.” For those who are familiar with the origiin his direction. nal show on MTV, the other movies, or even Eventually, the high winds blow him the spin-offs, the cast has grown on viewers off his chair, but that is a warm up as the over the 10 years that the “Jackass” crew has “Jackass” crew begins to throw tomatoes, existed. footballs and shoes in front of the turbine, Throughout those years, “Jackass” has making the items fly at high speeds toward other members of the cast. One of them tries grown into the culture of the American youth with their crazy antics and pranks done to open an umbrella behind the jet before on the show, making us all laugh at their getting blown away. expense. Another segment of the movie includes the cast running through an obstacle course Contact Dariush Azmoudeh at dazmoudeh. in a hallway with tires placed to run across, advocate@gmail.com. pieces of wood to climb over and to finish
PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
C8 THE ADVOCATE
l WEDNESDAY, MAY 19, 2010
SPORTS
FIFA World Cup: South Africa 2010 By Dariush Azmoudeh SPORTS EDITOR
With time narrowing down, soon the eyes of the world will be set on South Africa as 32 teams fight for the FIFA World Cup, as well as global bragging rights for the next four years. The World Cup is not merely a soccer tournament, however. It is a global spectacle that unites fans of all nations to cheer for their country, turning the players in the tournaments into national icons. And if those players triumph in their quest for the Cup, they will become heroes or even legends in their country. Countries bloom with the colors of their nations, as fans wear whatever they can to show their patriotism as the tournament draws closer. Sometimes, the streets are drowned with colors of the flag. Certain countries even largely cease work on game days, just so their people can get to a television to cheer for their team. The 2010 World Cup will kick off on June 11 at 7 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time, when host country South Africa plays against Mexico in Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg. Four years ago, the world saw the tournament hosted by Germany, where the home team was one of the favorites to win but fell in the semi-finals to Italy. Italy eventually won the Cup against France in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium. This left the Italian team celebrating in the middle of the field as confetti rained down, with captain Fabio Cannavaro clutching the world’s most prestigious trophy in his hands, not only for his team, but also for his country. The game was one to remember for not only being a nailbiter that went down to penalty kicks, but for one of the most shocking moments in sports history as well. French attacking midfielder Zinedine Zidane headbutted Italian defender Marco Materazzi in the chest, which escalated when Materazzi insulted Zidane. The action sent off Zidane on a red card during extra time, and it proved costly, as France was left without its captain for the remainder of the defeat.
From Germany to South Africa, this and Pelé, this year Brazil’s greatest strength is its defense. World Cup will mark the first time With Internazionale’s duo that the tournament is being of goalkeeper Julio Cesar, played in Africa. defender Lucio, and It was only eight Roma’s defender Juan years ago in 2002, playing in the back that the World Cup field, its defense has was held in the conproven to be tough tinent of Asia for during the qualithe first time, with fiers, as it allowed Japan and South Korea taking the only 11 goals in honor of co-host18 games. Spain is anothing the cup. The World Cup er team to watch out for. dates back to 1930, when the first tourAfter winning the UEFA EURO 2008, nament was held in Uruguay, where only the Spaniards rose 13 teams participated, to No. 1 in the FIFA and the tournament ranking for 17 out of was won by the host the 22 months since then. country. Since then, the World In addition, the team swept through qualifiCup has been held every four years, except for the 1942 and cation without losing one game. 1946 editions of the tournaSpain’s offense is led by ment, which were not held due to World War II. David Villa and Fernando A total of 18 World Cup Torres, two forwards who tournaments have been played, know how to get the ball to with the only team to particithe back of the net. pate in every one of them being With Brazil and Spain Brazil. being some of the favorites Brazil’s history at the World to win the World Cup, one Cup has been a glorious one team that cannot be excluded that exemplifies the country’s is the defending champion pride in the sport. Italy. In addition to participatOne of the key returning ing in every World Cup held, players to the Italian team is the country holds the record goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. for most championships, five, In 2006, he only allowed and holds many other World only two goals in the entire Cup records. tournament. Brazil was also the first But one question to win three championremains: Is Italy the ships and thus awarded same team it was in the Jules Rimet Trophy 2006? for being the first team The road to the to accomplish such a World Cup has not task. been easy for many While Brazil has teams, players and always been known for coaches, as many saw its strong offense as well as legendtheir dreams shatter. ary goalscorers such as Ronaldo, Romario More than 200 teams fought for a spot to
get into the World Cup, with qualifications beginning as early as August 2007. To get to the World Cup, teams need to put their best 11 on the field during qualification or it could cost them. Being on the same team, players must work as a team while still competing with their teammates for the chance to be in the final 23-man roster that travels to the World Cup. While playing a qualifying match, a team must play as perfectly as it can, because one mistake can be costly. The closer a team gets to qualifying, the tougher it is. Ireland, for instance, probably had one of the hardest defeats to France during a twoleg playoff for a spot to the World Cup. In the second game, Ireland was able to net the goal to tie the series and send it into extra time. During extra time, however, French striker Theirry Henry prevented a ball from going out of bounds by using his hand. He crossed the ball to William Gallas, who headed the ball into the goal, which eventually gave France the win and spot in the World Cup. Right after the goal, the Irish team ran up to the referee to signal him about the handball, which he did not see. After the game, Henry admitted that he used his hand to handle the ball. Ireland filed a complaint to FIFA, asking to replay the match and then asking to be allowed to the Cup as the 33rd team, but it was denied both times. Similarly, many dreams to compete in the World Cup have been shattered due to injuries. Players such as England’s David Beckham and the United States’ Charlie Davies unfortunately will be sidelined from the tournament. The World Cup always brings emotion, excitement and passion to players and fans. But it also brings surprises, where underdogs rise up and surprise millions around the globe, as seen by Turkey and South Korea in 2002. In the end, no matter who wins, it will surely be a month to remember for fans all over the world. Contact Dariush Azmoudeh at dazmoudeh.advocate@gmail.com.
Athletes and teams to watch during the tournament
Playing in his first World Cup, Luis Fabiano is Brazil’s go-to guy when a goal is needed. As well as a great goalscorer, he has proven to be clutch when needed. Since being called up to the national team by coach Dunga, he scored 19 goals in 21 games.
The Liverpool striker looks to compete with Spanish teammate David Villa to lead the team in scoring. Torres had knee surgery in April and has missed the rest of the English Premier League, but he looks to bounce back and fight for the scoring title.
The Argentine striker has been shown to be a powerful force while playing for his club team, Barcelona. He not only leads his team, but also the entire Spanish league, in goals scored with 34. He is the current FIFA World Player of the Year.
Leading the English attack, Rooney is prepared to tackle the 2010 World Cup following a poor performance in 2006. He played on an injured foot and went scoreless in the tournament. He led England during qualification with nine goals in 10 games.
South Africa, being the weakest team in the group, will try to use the advantage of being the home team to lead it through the Cup. While Mexico and Uruguay look to be equally matched, a game between them will define who will go on to the next round. France will face some challenges against the other teams but will likely advance. Predictions— 1st: France 2nd: Uruguay
Despite a fairly balanced group, Argentina is the team that sticks out as the strongest. With Messi and Tevez on offense, other teams will find it hard to keep Argentina from the goal. Nigeria, South Korea and Greece will battle with one another to get the second spot. South Korea’s experience might be enough to give the edge it needs to get to the next round. Predictions — 1st: Argentina 2nd: South Korea
Despite England missing David Beckham on its roster due to injury, it still has the fire power to not only get past the first round but to continue strongly. The United States will look to work on the momentum it gained in last summer’s Confederations Cup and a talented roster to take it into the competition’s second round. Predictions — 1st: England 2nd: United States
Ever since the last World Cup, Australia has shown that it’s a country that is about more than rugby. The team is playing in its second straight World Cup and has shown improvement since 2006. While Germany currently faces problems with inexperienced goalkeeping, its overall experience on the field can provide the power it needs in the tournament. Predictions — 1st: Germany 2nd: Australia
Passing through all its qualifying matches without losing a game, the Netherlands is poised to lead the group. Second place in the group looks to be a toss-up between the three other teams. On one end, Cameroon’s offense, led by Samuel Eto’o, might have what it takes to continue. But Japan and Denmark’s tactics should not be underestimated. Predictions — 1st: Netherlands 2nd: Cameroon
Defending champion Italy looks toward its defending and goalkeeping to shut down its opponents’ offense, but it might have a challenge when it faces Paraguay’s attacking power. Slovakia could prove to be a threat on offense as well. While New Zealand looks like a small team, it could be the surprise team in this World Cup. Predictions — 1st: Italy 2nd: Paraguay
This collective is known as this World Cup’s “Group of Death” with Brazil, Ivory Coast and Portugal. The underdog North Korea looks like it will make an early exit, while Brazil will be the team to qualify in first. Ivory Coast and Portugal will battle for the second spot in the group, beginning in the decisive opening match when the two teams play each other. Predictions — 1st: Brazil 2nd: Portugal
One of the favorites to win the tournament, Spain is set to breeze through the first round without much challenge. The other teams, however, will continue to put up a fight for the second spot. Honduras will not have enough fire power to get through, so it will end up being between Chile and Switzerland. And the Swiss defense will likely get it past Chile. Predictions — 1st: Spain 2nd: Switzerland PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
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Concerts set to rock stages Summer shows bring musical artists to the Bay Area Harmony Festival
Live 105’s BFD
Who: Primus, The Flaming Lips, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros and more. When: June 10-12 Where: Sonoma County Fairgrounds Price: $45-$340
Who: Linkin Park, Snoop Dogg, The Strokes, Cage the Elephant. When: June 5 Where: Shoreline Amphitheater Price: $57-$200
The Harmony Festival is an annual threeday lifestyle festival in Santa Rosa that celebrates the latest trends in health, music, arts, ecology and spirituality. The festival has been around for more than 30 years and appeals to the green lifestyle market. Other featured musical artists for the festival include G. Love & Special Sauce, Railroad Earth, Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, Soja, Ghostland Observatory, A. Skillz and Krishna Das Natacha Atlas. Ticket purchases range from daytime tickets costing $45 to VIP all-weekend tickets costing $340, which include VIP parking access, VIP camping access at the fairgrounds and limited stage access during the musical performances. —Alexandra Waite
BFD, one of radio station Live 105’s annual concerts, promises to begin the summer with a bang. Hosted by the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, the all-day festival features four stages with a total of 35 acts. The main stage, facing the lawn with limited purchasable seating, holds the main acts at the end of the day, but the gates open at 11 a.m. The Budlight Festival Stage will house attractions like Bad Religion, Neon Trees, The Airborne Toxic Event, Middle Class Rut and more. The party at the Subsonic Tent on the far side of the amphitheater will be spinning tracks with names such as Wolfgang Gartner, The Limousines, RAC, Party Ben and Jeffery Paradise. The final stage, called the Local Band Stage, will give bands from across the Bay Area, such as Beta State from San Jose and Finish Ticket from Alameda, a chance to play for the Live 105 crowd. The Local Band Contest Winner, voted by fans, will also be announced on this stage during the day. Lawn tickets range from $57 to $80, which will buy a spot on the large upper-level lawn that does not have any specified seating. Finding spots is a free-for-all, unless one shells out the cash ($100-$200) for the reserved seating in the lower level. —Cassidy Gooding
California Dreams Tour 2011 Who: Katy Perry When: Aug. 12 Where: HP Pavilion Price: $97-$1,000 California’s pop princess hits San Jose in August on her worldwide California Dreams Tour 2011. Katy Perry, whose style swings between rock and pop, is known for her eccentric outfits and flashy stage presence. Her California Dreams Tour will feature songs from her 2010 album Teenage Dream, which boasts such hits as “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream” and “Firework.” Far from her pop theme of today, Katy started her singing career as a gospel musician. Once she promised herself that she would either “make it” in the music business by the time she turned 25 or give up and go home, she switched up her methods and became more rock’n’roll. After her 2008 album, “One of the Boys,” which had such hits as “I Kissed a Girl” and “Hot and Cold,” made her a household name, she morphed into more of a pop feel. Recently married to actor Russell Brand, Katy Perry’s California Dream Tour 2011 started in Europe in February and will continue to Japan, Australia, New Zealand and North America. —Cassidy Gooding
Rolling Papers World Tour 2011 Who: Wiz Khalifa When: June 22 Where: Bill Graham Civic Auditorium Price: $35 Rapper Wiz Khalifa will be performing in San Francisco as part of his 27-stop Rolling Papers World Tour 2011 with opening hip-hop artists Big Sean and Chevy Woods. Khalifa released his first mixtape in 2005, which led to his first full-length album titled “Show and Prove” in 2006. That same year, he was declared an “artist to watch” in Rolling Stone magazine. His stage name derives from the Arabic word “khalifa,” meaning successor, and wisdom, which he shortened to “Wiz” when he was 15 years old. His musical influences include artists Camp Lo, The Notorious B.I.G., Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and Cam’ron. He is also the founder of the rap crew Taylor Gang, which includes friends Kev Tha Hustler, Ekko, Smallz Money and Gene Stovall. They based their name from the fact they always used to wear Chuck Taylor shoes. —Alexandra Waite
San Francisco Outside Lands Music & Art Festival Who: Muse, Phish, Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, Deadmau5, The Shins, MGMT and more When: Aug. 12-14 Where: Golden Gate Park Price: $200-$450 The San Francisco Outside Lands Music & Art Festival is an annual three-day festival that began in 2008, bringing music, food, wine and art to Golden Gate Park. The event is known to draw big crowds with more than 100,000 people attending last year’s festival. This year’s Outside Lands will showcase more than 50 musicians, such as Girl Talk, The Decemberists, John Fogerty, Erykah Badu, Beirut, The Roots and Arctic Monkeys. Other than music, the festival will provide a variety of food and wine. —Dariush Azmoudeh
Vans Warped Tour 2011 Who: 3OH!3, The Devil Wears Prada, Attack Attack!, A Day To Remember and more. When: July 2 Where: Shoreline Amphitheater Price: $45 The Warped Tour is an annual tour that has occurred every summer since 1995 and is primarily sponsored by Vans, the highly known skate shoe band. This July, the Shoreline Amphitheater is the seventh stop out of the 43 cities the tour is visiting. Popular groups like Simple Plan, Hellogoodbye, A Day to Remember, Reliant K, The Devil Wears Prada, Against Me! and many more will perform across the United States. Originally, the tour was created to showcase punk rock music, but now the genres are varied on the line-up. —Faythe Del Rosario
PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
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‘Hallows’ follows book, trio’s feats
raging in the magical world, as director David Yates dives right into the plot without stopping to baby the audience by reiterating anything from past movies. By Cassidy Gooding Therefore, one should definitely OPINION EDITOR take the opportunity to catch up with a Harry Potter movie maraIn the penultimate release of thon before making the trek and the staggering Harry Potter saga, shelling out the cash for a ticket. “Harry Potter and the Deathly For the avid movie fans who Hallows: Part 1,” longtime fans are strictly cinema-goers and of the series are taken on an have not read the books, “Deathly intense journey through parts of the magical world never glimpsed Hallows: Part 1” picks up right where “The Half-Blood before. Harry, Ron and Prince” left off. The moviereview Hermione, after facing first scene opens with a Lord Voldemort’s Death message from the new Eaters in a series of close Minister of Magic, Rufus calls, take off into the Scrimgeour, setting percountryside and forsake “Harry Potter fectly the dark mood that the comforts of Hogwarts. and the Deathly has crept over the wizardReleased Nov. 19, the Hallows: Part 1” ing world since Professor seventh installation of the ★★★★★ Dumbledore’s death and saga has already brought Starring: Daniel Voldemort’s subsequent in more than $300 milRadcliffe, Rupert rise to power. lion worldwide, cementing Grint, Emma Similar to the last two Harry Potter as one of the Watson Directed by: movies — “HBP” and most lucrative franchises David Yates “The Order of the Phoenix” in history. Genre: Fantasy — the coloring of the Newcomers deciding to scenes is muted and the jump on the bandwagon at overall feel is generally this last minute by flockominous. ing to theaters without any prior As for diehard fans of both knowledge have been somewhat the books and movies, “Part 1” lost in the fray of the new battle plays like a dream. A well crafted, almost totally true-to-the-book dream that makes two and a half hours fly by like a thestral. From the very beginning, however, those who know the story in and out will either squirm uncomfortably or chuckle derisively as Harry is introduced to characters he should have known for years, such as Mundungus Fletcher, Bill Weasley and Xenophilius Lovegood. Other than these and scattered minor discrepancies, the story unfolds exactly as author J. K. Rowling painted it on paper. After the first half hour, when Harry, Ron and Hermione escape from danger and begin their search for the items called horcruxes by camping out in
random locations throughout Europe, the movie becomes an intimate setting for just the audience and the trio. Extra characters are scant and unimportant, lending watchers much more isolated character development that’s only ever been glanced at in the films before. The constant fear, ebbing hope and mounting overwhelmed mania between the friends are palpable and contagious as each step forward seems just to unravel more puzzles to solve. For example, hearts go out to Harry’s stirring experience at his parent’s grave site in Godric’s Hollow, and the following scene with Bathilda Bagshot is so hauntingly chilling the only thing that would have made it better would have been 3-D effects. With the explosion of 3-D movies recently, coupled with the fact that the last 20 minutes of “OOTP” and first 20 of “HBP” could be viewed in the special effect, it’s very surprising Warner Brothers didn’t spring for more of the same with this release. One can only imagine how much more involved the audience would have been had it felt more like viewers were standing in the forests or the Malfoy Mansion or the Ministry of Magic. As it is, however, “The Deathly Hallows: Part 1” has captivated a plethora of viewers. After nine years of watching, it has become increasingly easy to root for Harry, Ron and Hermione, and as fans await the end of an era, the trio has become so familiar and endearing that many feel as though they’re watching their own friends on screen. “Part 1” ends at a sublime cliffhanger that has left millions of people with no choice but to hold their breath until July, when “Part 2” is released. Contact Cassidy Gooding at cgooding.advocate@gmail.com.
Next film to finish, thrill By Janit Saechao STAFF WRITER
in this first part of “The Deathly Hallows,” he only succeeds in eliminating one, making the current score three out of seven horcruxes down. The last and final movie of the Harry Potter series would logically consist of Harry completing his unfinished business with the help of Ron and Hermione. They will search for and destroy what’s left of the remaining horcruxes and Harry will ultimately fight the battle he’s been waiting for his entire life against Voldemort. After years of many casualties, mysteries and dangers, Harry will be able to overcome his fears and have the chance to defeat him. If successful, Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, along with the whole wizarding world, shall finally know peace. Harry will be able to let go of his past and move onto a better future. After all, it was much deserved and every story should have a happy ending.
After its first movie release in 2001, the Harry Potter series is finally coming to a close. With the release of “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 1,” part two is soon to follow with its release date set for July 15, 2011. While many say the part one of “The Deathly Hallows” is action packed, the second is expected to be even more exciting with the inclusion of the most epic battle in the saga’s history. In the recent release, Harry, Hermione and Ron journey to destroy the objects called horcruxes in which Lord Voldemort has placed pieces of his soul. In the process, they learn about the three fabled tems, known as the deathly hallows, which promise their owner immortality. Contact Janit Saechao at jsaechao. Harry, since the sixth installation of the series, has made it his goal to destroy all of the horcruxes, and advocate@gmail.com. PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
The seven horcruxes Slytherin’s Locket
The charmed locket once owned by Slytherin had to be stolen from Dolores Umbridge and worn by the trio for weeks before Ron finally defeated it with the sword of Gryffindor.
Hufflepuff’s Goblet
Glimpsed in book 6, Voldemort murdered a collector of treasures for the valuable goblet and created a horcrux out of it as a show of his devotion to power and the founders of Hogwarts.
Ravenclaw’s Diadem
Before his death, Dumbledore confided to Harry that Voldemort must have found and hidden something of Ravenclaw’s inside of Hogwarts.
Slytherin’s Ring
Dumbledore was seen wearing this ring before he was killed, and told Harry he had destroyed the soul inside. The ring’s whereabouts are now unknown.
Tom Riddle’s Diary In “The Chamber of Secrets,” the enchanted diary possessed Ginny Weasley before Harry impaled and mangled it with a basilisk fang.
?
The Seventh Horcrux
At the close of “Half-Blood Prince,” Harry is under the impression the final horcrux is something of Gryffindor’s. However, he has yet to find proof.
Nagini the Snake
Dumbledore presented the possibility that Nagini, Voldemort’s eerily intelligent and obedient pet snake, could be a host for one of the pieces of the Dark Lord’s soul.
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B campus beat ◆ page A5
Rest rooms
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Strong leader
New facility criticized
A close look at team captain
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‘Jackass’ reviewed Comedy film takes new 3D approach
VOL. 95, NO. 8 THE WEEKLY STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.
Local library wins grant
T HE C ALIFOR NIA G ENERAL E LECTION
2 0 1 0
By Sam Attal
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
By Cassidy Gooding OPINION EDITOR
■ SEE LIBRARY: Page A4
Campus officers dwindle Funding cut, safety services feel impact
‘LEAP’ fights for individual literacy tests The Literacy for Every Adult Project (LEAP) of the Richmond Public Library recently received a $400,000 grant to further their cause in the city of Richmond. LEAP was started in Richmond in 1984 with the overall goal of helping local individuals reach new levels of literacy based on personalized lesson plans, LEAP secretary Ora Lowe said. “LEAP has always hoped to achieve higher literacy levels for the people in Richmond,” Interim Director of Richmond Public Library Roger Pearson said. Though the program has been working with Richmond, El Sobrante and San Pablo citizens for the better part of three decades, LEAP only recently started implementing the Learner Web tool, a system with an emphasis on providing self-paced online learning coupled with personal tutor support. It is because of this venture with Learner Web that the LEAP program caught the eye of Portland State University, after an organization for computer literacy there applied to the Department of Commerce for a grant provided under the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program. “Portland State applied for the grant and then chose us and four other sites to get the funding to teach people how to use computers and familiarize them with the Internet,” LEAP Program Manager Sherry Drobner said. The first reason Richmond Library was chosen was the staff’s experience with Learner Web, the program that impressed the Department of Commerce. “Secondly, we were chosen because Richmond is a community where there is still a
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 27, 2010 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM
With new students coming in from various crimefilled high schools, the fall semester is always a tough one for those in charge of protecting the campus from illegal activities. And with a shortage of police officers available, concerns have been raised about how secure the college really is. Police Services Sgt. Jose Oliveira said due to budget cuts, not only has he seen the number of police aides dwindle in size compared to three years ago, but full-time police officers as well. “Our staff is doing a great job of doing more with less, but the fall always seems to be the busiest with the new
G OLDEN
edit orial An unfelt presence Increased crime and a decreased Police Services presence shatter the facade of students feeling safe on campus. Officers attempt to be seen, but their efforts fall short.
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O PPORTUNITY Vehicle hit again ■ SEE OFFICERS: Page A4
T
uesday is Election Day for California, where issues ranging from the environment, the budget, marijuana, health, education and who represents the state will be decided by citizens. In the B section of this week’s edition, The Advocate looks into the many state and local issues that appear on the ballot. After all, Contra Costa College is a large campus that serves many students of voting age from all different backgrounds and beliefs. These students, and even the ones who are not yet old enough to vote, should be familiar with the issues at hand.
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE BALLOT B2
Advice
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The Advocate Editorial Board has written a list of suggestions for state propositions
Debate Relevant issues
regarding the gubernatorial election are analyzed, discussed
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Facts
Information about health effects from marijuana, scientific issues described in detail
Car on campus stolen week after burglary By Adam Oliver STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
After her car was ransacked in Lot 10 on Oct. 8, student Brandy Wilson thought it would be less vulnerable to reoccurrence if parked across campus in Lot 4. But when she returned at 5 p.m. on Oct. 19 to the lot, the 1995 white Acura Legend she left there only six hours before was nowhere to be found. “First they break into it, then they steal it,” Wilson said. “I don’t understand how you can steal a whole car on campus in front of a policeman’s face. I can’t grasp it at all.” Contra Costa County sheriffs encountered the vehicle in an undisclosed area of El Sobrante at 2 a.m. on Oct. 20, just a few of hours after the vehicle was lifted from the college, Police Services officer Jon Caires
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
■ SEE STOLEN: Page A4
Miller makes campus campaign appearance By Cassidy Gooding OPINION EDITOR
GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE
Hands of power — Rep. George Miller talks about his plans and beliefs if reelected on Tuesday. He spoke to an audience in the Rec Room on Oct. 19.
Contra Costa College warmly welcomed Rep. George Miller (D-Martinez) to speak in the Recreation Room on Oct. 19 about the issues of the upcoming election. “Congressman Miller is a homeboy,” President McKinley Williams said. “A friend to CCC and our community.” Born in Richmond, George Miller graduated from San Francisco State University and UC Davis before becoming a member of
the House of Representatives in 1975. Since then, he’s been representing California’s 7th congressional district as “a leading advocate in Congress for today’s education and the environment,” Williams said. Once the president introduced Miller to the room full of students, faculty and district administrators, the Congressman took the stage amid raucous applause. “I like to do this; come speak at schools as an effort to update the public periodically,” Miller said. “To let you know what we’re trying to do (in Congress) that will directly impact your lives.” The congressman told the audience about his experiences in office and his plans for the future if he gets reelected on Nov. 2. ■ SEE MEETING: Page A4
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Congressman comes home to share ideas
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Saved
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‘Fast Five’ continues ride
Grant funds dental program
Fifth action installment entertains audiences
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scene ◆ page 8
sports ◆ pages 7
Athletics hosts feast Crab feed helps raise funds for department
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THE STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.
Nursing slots reduced
BIN LADEN KILLED
Will al-Qaeda, terrorists seek ‘retaliation’ against the United States?
By Sam Attal
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
sattal.advocate@gmail.com
Those who have seats in the college’s nursing program know just how lucky they are. Students who wish to enroll in the high-demand program must meet minimum GPA requirements and pass certain classes before they can actually apply. And even though the hundreds of students who fill out applications each year meet the requirements, only a select few are accepted into the program through the random lottery system in place. For the fall, it’s even going to be harder to get in as the small number of slots has been slashed more than half. The numbers have dropped from 65 slots from fall 2010 to just 32 filled for this upcoming fall. “I feel terrible that there are students who want to come into the profession and we can only serve 32 of them,” nursing department Chairwoman Cheri Etheredge said. The decision to cut the number of slots is not based on funding for students, but the salaries of the department’s faculty. Etheredge said the decision came after college officials announced
edit orial The college must find alternatives
In order to save the nursing program from experiencing more cuts, college administrators need to seek other options for funding, such as grants. One of the best in the Bay Area, the college’s nursing program cannot afford to lose faculty and openings for students.
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Soccer athlete murdered Student falls victim in local shooting, dies By Adam Oliver NEWS EDITOR
aoliver.advocate@gmail.com PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
By the numbers:
2,998
deaths on Sept. 11
By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR
U
awaite.advocate@gmail.com
pon hearing the news of United States forces killing Osama bin Laden in a raid on Sunday evening in Pakistan, most Contra Costa College students did not feel happiness, but were left questioning the safety of the country and what will happen next. While acknowledging bin Laden’s death brought closure to many of his victim’s families, CCC students shared the belief that it will not end terrorism altogether and that the violence will only escalate. “(His death) won’t stop terrorism. Terrorism isn’t one person; it’s a movement against imperialism,” political science major Mehdi Tasbihi said. “The two sides need to sit down and talk with each
other in order to work it out.” Fear of retaliation Computer science major Francia Garcia said when she found out bin Laden had been killed, she immediately felt scared that al Qaeda would retaliate. Cultural Anthropology professor Jayne Smithson said, “His death will stall terrorism for a while, but retaliation will hap■ SEE BIN LADEN: Page 3
1,549
U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan
nine
years spent hunting bin Laden Source: U.S. Central Command
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Students, faculty react to killing of leader behind Sept. 11 attacks
Stepping outside of a friend’s house to answer a phone call, a Contra Costa College soccer player was killed when a hail of gunfire erupted in his direction on the night of April 8. Andrew “Andy” Manriquez, 19, was competing in a FIFA soccer video game tournament with friends in a detached bedroom on the 1400 block of Dunn Avenue in Richmond just moments before. “He got a phone call from somebody and that’s when it happened,” said longtime friend Cassius Botelho, who was with Manriquez that night. “I was there until his last breath.” Around 10:30 p.m., a pair of gunmen heading northbound on 15th Street toward Dunn Avenue began firing on the residence and two cars in front, hitting Manriquez
Manriquez Manriquez played as a midfielder for the men’s soccer team last fall. He studied astronomy and art. He was gunned down in front of his friend’s house in Richmond when he stepped out to answer a phone call on April 8. Police and family say he was not the intended target. For obituary see page 4
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Lunar year celebrated
San Francisco hosts Chinese New Year Parade
spotlight ◆ page 9
Legacy Dean retires after 25 years
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focus ◆ pages 6-7
sports ◆ page 12
Comets warm up Baseball team seeks redemption this season
VOL. 96, NO. 14
SINCE 1950 12 PAGES, ONE COPY FREE
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM
THE WEEKLY STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.
Padilla EDUCATIONAL CRISIS Funding statue awaits gains election funds Pending bond to renovate CCC buildings
Memorial goal of $7,500 achieved at last
By Adam Oliver STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
By George Morin
aoliver.advocate@gmail.com
PHOTO EDITOR
A first-ever single college bond measure created by the district to modernize, renovate and construct new facilities at Contra Costa College may find its way on to the June special election ballot for West County voters, that is, if there is one. The $97 million bond awaiting approval by the Governing Board would fund the continuation of the college’s Facilities Master Plan if state lawmakers allow the special election and if voters approve of it, President McKinley Williams said. After casting a poll to test the success of the proposed measure, district Chief Facilities Planner Ray Pyle said that even though they are still in the beginning stages of processing the bond, “the majority of likely county voters approved of the idea.” “The taxpayers of West Contra Costa have always been supportive of education,” said John Márquez, the Governing Board member who proposed the idea. “Taxpayers want to step up to the plate and support CCC.” As the measure would effectively cost just around $20 per $100,000 in assessed property value, it is a very petty sacrifice to make for the benefit of the college, he said. “In the long run, it’s one of those sacrifices that you make. We can either support our college or drink more soda that year, that kind of thing,” Márquez said. Student Tony Rojas felt similarly. “That’s pretty cheap, they won’t even know it’s gone,” Rojas said. “Plus, it will benefit current and future students who want a better education.” Williams said a majority of the residents of West County have a relative or friend who attends or has attended CCC, and many realize the good the college does. “We have been a tremendous asset not only to the local economy but by changing the
The goal to honor a fallen staff member has finally been reached. The $7,500 for the Martin Padilla memorial statue was met on Jan. 10, senior executive assistant to the president Melody Hanson said. Martin Padilla, former evening Padilla and Saturday program monitor, was struck and killed while driving to the campus from his Pinole home in August 2008. Because of Padilla’s excellent service to the college community, a committee was formed to find a way to memorialize him. After proposing and vetoing a few different options, the committee, which consists of four members from separate campus constituencies, decided to have a statue of Padilla’s likeness placed in the plaza in front of the Student Services Center. Along with the bust of Padilla, the statue, an informational placard will be placed explaining why he’s remembered. “Martin Padilla was a man who stood for passion, commitment and dedication,” Senior Dean of Research and Planning Tim Clow said. Clow said Padilla was always there for the students and on campus well into the evenings. “The sculpture will be an everlasting tribute to that passion, commitment and dedication that Padilla stood for and the values that this college will remember to hold on to,” Dr. Clow said. “At night, a (big) number of students and staff are still very present on campus,” Academic Senate President Richard Akers said. “During the day management is responsible for all things that happen on campus. But at night Martin was the ■ SEE PADILLA: Page 4
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
Legislative Analyst’s Office proposes 154 percent statewide tuition increase
edit orial
By Sam Attal
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
sattal.advocate@gmail.com
Student Sherry Madison considered dropping out of school after she had a hard time paying her college tuition in addition to living expenses. Although the 55-year-old still manages to attend Contra Costa College, even after having the number of days she works a week cut from four to one, she, like many other students, receives no financial aid and faces a difficult time when deciding which bills to pay each month. “I’ve contemplated having to drop out of school to survive,” Madison said. Currently Madison pays $26 a unit to attend classes at CCC, but she may have to say goodbye to her dreams of higher education if tuition fees take a hike next semester. The Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) has recommended that tuition fees be raised to $66 a unit up and down the California community college system beginning in the fall semester.
Such an amount would force a student who currently pays $312 for 12 units to pay $792 for the same classes. The dollar-per-unit amount comes from multiple factors that the LAO has taken into account, including Gov. Jerry Brown’s 2011-12 budget proposal asking for a $12.5 billion cut statewide. Brown’s proposal requires higher education to take a $1.4 billion cut of which $400 million will come from the state’s community colleges, LAO Director of Higher Education Steve Boilard said. “That’s a pretty steep cut,” Boilard said. “You can’t cut $400 million (from community college budgets) without disrupting colleges. There’s just not that much waste or fat in the system.” CCC President McKinley Williams ■ SEE TUITION: Page 4
Urgent assembly
Students, employees from community colleges must band together alongside peers from University of California, California State University systems to oppose $1.4 billion educational cuts and potential fee hikes.
page 2
■ SEE BOND: Page 4
DeTorres recuperates at home Business professor rests after heart attack By Cassidy Gooding OPINION EDITOR
cgooding.advocate@gmail.com
Business department Chairman Joseph DeTorres was rushed to the hospital on Feb. 4 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Oakley. “My heart stopped a few times,” DeTorres said. “I wasn’t really in good shape, but the doctors were able to revive me.” DeTorres remained at the Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center until returning home on Feb. 21. Since then, he has been getting the rest his doctors recommend.
“I’ve just been resting (since I’ve been home) and doing some of the exercises my physical therapist showed me,” DeTorres said, “but nothing to excite me too much. I have to be careful not to raise my blood (pressure) level.” Though Contra Costa College faculty and staff were worried about his health after the attack, DeTorres’ hospitalization also left his classes hanging in the balance. As the only full-time business professor, six sections holding about 200 students were left without an instructor. When interim Natural, Social and Applied Sciences Division Dean Leverett Smith received the e-mail on Feb. 5 about DeTorres’ condition, he immediately sought to fill the holes left by the absence. “I was very impressed,” Dr. Smith said of the nine part-time business professors. “I sent an all-points bulletin to the department saying, ‘Here is the situation, (DeTorres) is in the
hospital and here are the sections we need to be covered.’” By the end of the day, he said, every class had a substitute, and only one session was sacrificed. “(The part-time professors) really stepped up to the plate,” he said. CCC student Don Aitchison agreed. “The transition (between professors) was smooth,” he said, describing how Smith introduced substitute professor Gary Bell to his Business 109 class as “tactful.” Aitchison continued to say that in his section at least, Bell “pretty much picked up where (DeTorres) left off.” Bell, who is also CEO of a credit union in Berkeley, picked up the extra section out of loyalty to DeTorres. “(I took the class) because (DeTorres) is a ■ SEE DETORRES: Page 4
w Contra
Costa College is requesting a bond of $97 million to put on June’s possible special election.
w The bond
money will charge West Contra Costa County residents an extra $20 per year per $100,000 in assessed property value.
w The bond
measure will help CCC elevate facilities and technology to be on par with student success and quality of education.
w The main
aims of the bond will be improving accessibility for disabled students, building campus facilities and seismically retrofitting existing structures.
w The bond,
if passed, will also create an oversight committee of residents to make sure the money is being spent appropriately.
w This bond
is the first ever of its kind to only be meant to affect one college in the district.
“I hope that sometime in the near future I’ll be able to get back in the swing of things. But meanwhile, I’m just going to try and keep my energy level high and watch my diet.”
Joseph DeTorres,
business department chairman
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in brief
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