The Advocate - Feb. 3, 2010

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

Earthquake devastates

Worldwide efforts aim to help Haiti

SINCE 1950 8 PAGES, ONE COPY FREE

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spotlight ◆ page 7

campus beat ◆ page 5

campus beat ◆ page 6

District raises parking fees

Music enthusiasts compete karaoke style

Citations

Sing along get-together

VOL. 94, NO. 12 THE WEEKLY STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.

Student killed in Richmond

Joyful helper dies at 69

By Holly Pablo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Retired aide remembered as kind spirit

No arrests have been made in the murder of 19-year-old Kyle Bratton, a Contra Costa College student, musician and youth leader, police officials say.

Richmond Police Department (RPD) Lt. Mark Gagan said that on Dec. 14, Bratton was with his girlfriend on the intersection of South 17th Street and Virginia Avenue in the Coronado District of Richmond when an unknown assailant approached and shot Bratton in the back at approximately 10:36 a.m.

“As the suspects passed Kyle, they stared at him, looking him up and down,” Gagan said.

“One of them turned around and opened fire at a very close range.

There was very little or no verbal action before the attack.”

Of various witnesses, a nurse immediately stopped and administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation on Bratton before paramedics arrived, Gagan said.

Bratton was lifted by helicopter to John Muir Medical

By Asia Camagong ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Emma C. HendersonPayton, a retired West Contra Costa Unified School District transition program instructional assistant, died at her home in Richmond of cardiopulmonary arrest and other underlying causes Jan. 5 at the age of 69.

Alongside having a gastrectomy caused by a bleeding ulcer, Payton battled lifethreatening health conditions such as refractory peptic ulcer disease, chronic kidney disease and malabsorption syndrome, according to her death certificate.

“She always made it through. She was a cat with nine lives,” transition program instructor Sally Emeson said. “(Payton) went way past when any doctor thought she’d live.”

Payton, known throughout Contra Costa College as “Granny,” spent 25 years on campus in the transition program aiding disabled students from 18 to 22 years of age before retiring in 2006.

“She became sort of a fixture here,” Emeson said.

Emeson, who worked alongside Payton since 1973, recalls the “loving strictness” Payton emitted when interacting with students, faculty and staff on campus.

“When (Payton) moved through this campus, no matter who she interacted with, she sort of lit up their life for a moment, (because they) recognized that somebody else cared,” she said.

Living up to the nickname Granny, Payton was unafraid to bring sense into the lives of misbehaving students, often fondly remembered for berating those wearing their pants too low, Emeson said.

“It was a strictness that went along with a twinkle in her eye and a smile,” she ■ SEE PAYTON: Page 4

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM

edit orial Harmful apathy

To many, the continuous crime in Richmond is almost believed to be an every day part of life. But the more unsurprised we become of the negative headlines, the more we unwittingly accept that violent acts are normal occurrences.

page A2

■ SEE BRATTON: Page 5

Cars stolen, burglarized ERIK VERDUZCO / THE ADVOCATE

Reservations required — Students spill out of the classroom and listen in from the hallway during math professor Ted Tanaka’s Intermediate Algebra course in H-3 Thursday.

Like many classes, the demand exceeds the supply.

Number of units enrolled at 4.6 percent higher than same time last year

TRYING TO FIT IN

By Lamar James NEWS EDITOR

Students at Contra Costa College are beginning to feel the increasing pressure of rising enrollment, as course capacities are stretched thinner and thinner and in some cases exceeded by more than just a few spots.

“This school is super crowded, and it is beginning to stress me out,” student Merily Valera said.

After a two-year hiatus from school, Valera did not anticipate returning to an understaffed, overcrowded community college. Like many others in the wake of

the economic downturn, she has come back to school to sharpen her job skills.

Senior Dean of Research and Planning Timothy Clow said at present time, the college’s full-time equivalent students are at 3,389 compared to last year’s figure of 3,240. The number of units enrolled in by students is at a 4.6 percent increase, while the number of sections has been cut.

“So what this means is more students are taking more units,” Dr. Clow said.

This causes the need for more course offerings so students can obtain necessary units. But if courses are unavailable, then students will be forced to go find those units at a different college.

■ SEE ENROLLMENT: Page 4

By Lamar James NEWS EDITOR

One vehicle was stolen and another burglarized on campus grounds on Jan. 26, police officials say.

Police Services Sgt. Jose Oliveira said that this marks the first car to be stolen this semester. It was a red 1989 Honda Civic, taken between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

This was approximately the same time the other car was burglarized in the lot across from the armory. The make of the vehicle remains undisclosed because a report has yet to be filed, Oliveira said.

There are no suspects or leads in either case, but officials are attempting to get everything settled, Sgt. Ryan Huddleston said.

“We are working on patrolling the campus,” Huddleston said. “We have police aides patrolling numerous areas of the campus.”

Huddleston said there is a police aide in the upper area, one in the lower area, and there is one called Rover who patrols all over the campus. When the manpower is there, they can ■ SEE CARS: Page 4

Carter plans changes in football program

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Man for the job — Coach Alonzo Carter runs drills with his prospective football team during a class at Comet Stadium Monday. Carter hopes to build relationships and bond with his players during his tenure as the football coach.

Last season’s gloomy and overcast onewin finish is put to the past as the football team looks ahead to a brighter future with the hiring of new coach Alonzo Carter.

Athletic Director John Wade made the move to hire the former Berkeley High School and McClymonds High School football coach after the Comets could only manage a single victory last season under the leadership of previous head coach Dave Johnson, who was let go after the serving of his one-year coaching internship.

“We were in a transition period and he’s (Johnson) been here (coaching) as an assistant for 25 years,” Wade said. “He had a shot to lead the team as a head coach and after the season was over, we had the opportunity to hire Carter.”

Wade knew that Carter was the man for the job, as in order to being a football coach, one must have to lead by a positive example and motivate others to achieve their own personal goals in life.

“You have different things (required) in being a coach. You have to change people’s lives, make sure someone is conducting themselves correctly, to have stability and to give the students a positive model to look up to,” Wade said. “Coach Carter is a model of good behavior.”

Being a positive model is something ■ SEE CARTER: Page 4

CMYK

Coach eyes stability after single-win finish

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

2 THE ADVOCATE Quotable “The press is really like a canary in a mine: When the press is suppressed, it’s a clue to other terrible things that might happen.”

Anthony Lewis columnist, 2000 Holly Pablo editor-in-chief Sam Attal associate editor Asia Camagong associate editor Alec Surmani associate editor Cassandra Juniel spotlight editor Diana Reyes Lauren Shiraishi opinion editors Dariush Azmoudeh Malcolm Lastra sports editors Lamar James news editor Brent Bainto social media editor Erik Verduzco photo editor Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Lissette Alvarez Mairat Assefa Alison Calais Tristin Cooper Hilberth Diaz Ibarra Cassidy Gooding Xautia Gray Kristina Plaza Marjorie Riformo Christian Soto Alexandra Waite Staff photographers Crystal Joy Bis Kevin Chourarath George Morin Joe Phutiyotin Raul Reyes Michael Sue Desmond Sylva Roman Young Staff illustrators James Heck Cody McFarland Joel Ode Honors ACP National Newspaper Pacemaker Award 1990, 1994, 1997,1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 CNPA Better Newspaper Contest 1st Place Award 1970, 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 JACC Pacesetter Award 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 Member Associated Collegiate Press California Newspaper Publishers Association Journalism Association of Community Colleges How to reach us Phone: 510.235.7800 ext. 4315 Fax: 510.235.NEWS E-mail: advocate@ contracosta.edu or letters.advocate@ gmail.com Editorial policy Columns and editorial cartoons are the opinion of individual writers and artists and not that of The Advocate. Editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board, which is made up of student editors.

OPINION

l WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010 VOL. 94, NO. 12 ●

Editorial Inferiority complex Negative mindset only reinforces poor image

‘O

h, it’s just another day in Richmond.”

Apathetic statements like this are often heard in response to shootings, rapes and other violent crimes that occur in our community.

With every negative headline that we encounter, we become even less surprised that once again, crime has happened in the city.

This acceptance, however, results in the desensitizing of residents to these various tragedies. Just because crime happens often does not mean that each occurrence is any less significant.

When we cease to respond, we cease to care about these victims. It should not be tolerated or accepted, however, when people say this sort of thing.

It is by passively sitting on the sidelines that we unconsciously choose to ignore the problem. By sitting back and doing nothing, we contribute to the ongoing circle of violence.

It is like putting a Band-Aid over an ugly scab. It may cover it up, but it is not going to make it heal.

The problem cannot be entirely blamed on the place; the problem also lies within the people. Our silence makes us equally guilty as those committing the crime.

Despite communitywide efforts, including after-school programs and youth empowerment groups, many still seem negative about the prospect of these activities reducing the violence among young people.

But instead of brushing off the efforts of those in the program, we should commend participants for trying and be thankful of havens for local youth.

Contra Costa College music student and Richmond Youth Student Empowerment (RYSE) Center regular Kyle Bratton was a friendly 19-yearold with big dreams, yet he was killed in cold blood by an unknown perpetrator on Dec. 14 as he walked down a Richmond street with his girlfriend.

Regretfully, Bratton is not the first CCC student lost to senseless violence.

While there is no single solution, the first step is acknowledging that an attitude change is necessary.

People witness crime and look the other way, because they think it is not their business. They only care when they are directly affected; when the victim is a family member or a friend.

But every victim is someone’s mother, father, sister or brother.

People may feel apathetic because they feel hopeless, but making negative statements about the city only reinforces what everybody already believes, that the positives in Richmond will never outweigh the negatives.

Nothing in a community happens in isolation. We need to start caring, because when something happens to our neighbors, we are all affected.

JOEL ODE/ THE ADVOCATE

■ Dreams

Subconscious unlocks an ‘alternate world’

L

ucid dreaming. It’s a term originated by Dutch psychiatrist Frederik van Eeden that is also a concept that’s foreign to many, especially to those who are not able to grasp the essence of dreaming in itself.

By “dreaming,” I am referring to the string of imaginary transactions and thoughts that occur while sleeping.

According to a book

by Celia Elizabeth Green titled “Lucid Dreaming: The Paradox of Consciousness During Sleep,” “Lucid dreams are those in which a person becomes aware that he is dreaming. As he realizes this the character of the dream continues to be in a lucid dream.”

Ideally, one who experiences a lucid dream, in simpler terms, is one who is aware that he or she is dreaming while still dreaming.

My first experience with lucid dreaming took place at the very early age of 9 while I found myself running for my life through a war field as I was trying to avoid being hit by a missile.

Suddenly, my eyes locked eyes with a stranger in my dream, when I realized that I was, indeed, dreaming.

I looked at this stranger and noticed fright in his eyes and I said “No, it’s not as bad as it seems. We are both dreaming and before you know it, this whole experience will be over.”

What exactly happened after I had this exchange of words with a figure who could have possibly been a

dianareyes representation of the side of myself who was experiencing fear, is slightly obscure after all these years. I do, however, recall the moment in which I woke I find myself up and clearly trying to recall saw a cannonball whether I took coming my way. part in a As I began to open my specific eyes, the silhousituation or ette of the can- if it was my nonball became subconscious. more vivid and before I knew it, I was staring directly at a balloon that happened to be right in front of my bed.

Of course, at that age, the concept of lucid dreaming was nameless to me. That is, until the vividness of my dreams recurred and the experiences became more and more familiar. My father explained to me that not a lot of people experience those dreams and those who do are not always aware of the distinctive traits of the phenomenon.

Yet, while most people cannot always recall their

dreams, I sometimes have a hard time distinguishing the apparent line that separates reality from a dream.

I am aware of it now, but in certain situations, my dreams are so eloquent that I find myself trying to recall whether I took part in a specific situation or if it was my subconscious who experienced the occurrence.

Predominantly, the simple act of being able to recall my dreams has been mindexpanding. I can’t always decipher the very meaning of each dream, but the ability to experience life in an “alternate world” is an experience in itself.

Sleeping phenomena hold a significant amount of interest for me. Ever since I realized that my dreams were deeper than what I originally imagined, I began recording them in a journal.

In a sense, I became so enthralled by the concept of dreams, as far as lucid dreams, sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations.

From the knowledge I have gained from talking to others about my experiences I have learned that topics such as these can be disturbing to many, especially to those who have had similar experiences but not much understanding on the situation.

For me, however, I take advantage of being able to get deeper into the slumber of unconsciousness.

Diana Reyes is an opinion editor of The Advocate.

Contact her at dreyes. advocate@gmail.com.

CampusComment

How did you react to the earthquake in Haiti?

“When I did find out about it, I felt the people in Haiti were treated unfairly by being called looters for trying to help their families survive.”

“I was shocked and terrified about what happened. I really want to donate but I’ve been busy.”

Megan Falk Michelle Southichack

Skye Elvin undecided

“I was sad that that happened but I don’t have any money. I can’t even buy my books.”

business management

accounting

“I had no idea about it until I saw Time magazine. I felt distraught and that very same day I donated a lot of clothes, I guess onefourth of my wardrobe.”

Rodolfo Orellana MCHS

“I didn’t really do much, I just felt bad for the people. For our freshman class, we collected money and we thought of ways to use the money and one of the ways was to help Haiti.”

Earl Briones radiology

CRYSTAL JOY BIS / THE ADVOCATE

“When I saw the images, I was in shock at how bad it really was.

The images were what impacted me the most.”

Ruby Esparza MCHS

FORUM ■ Relationships

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

3

■ Process

Ends overshadow means’ value brentbainto

Ambiguous relationships deflate spirits

I

t is peculiar how much the possibility of even a prospective romantic relationship can often be left on a whim.

And it happens much more than people even care to realize because of how shamefully unspoken the situation of being led on is.

Perpetually prevalent, the classic case of being used as the unconditionally caring person slowly deteriorates the merit usually obtained in the very interactions of what is confided between friends.

In fact, in most situations, it starts as just friends.

Friends who get to know every aspect of each other before making the versed, often hesitant jump to go further is not always clear cut and simple. As baby steps toward what could progress, the most passive party starts to realize just how arduous and needlessly difficult their affair will progressively get.

In another scenario, a heartbroken individual seeks to find the supplement of what once was, or what just never happened. This catches the attention of a curiously caring companion who, at the very least, only cares enough to make the other happy by carefully attempting to transcend sympathy to empathy and provide the shoulder to lean on.

From whatever circumstance, the product never attains the sought clarity.

What does not seem to be discussed is how impossible and bleak the companion will get when a mockery is made of emotions. The friend dare not fall in love with the other, but inadvertently it does happen. Almost naturally, a game is established wherein a test of loyalty is conducted.

A false sense of power is to be had, and in most if not all cases, the game is not even apparent enough to the key (and only) player. Little droplets of hope bead off the hands of who try to catch them. The eager hands do not fight, not for control of a game, but more so to dissolve it in hopes that a greater grasp can be reached.

With the bounds of adoration, turned ridicule, a forever gaping question of self-worth is constantly asked, as an insatiable thirst is more noticeably discernible.

After however long, the same comforting efforts come to no avail. The confidant grows dissatisfied with himself or herself and an exacerbating cycle of self-deprecation follows.

They dare not speak out due to fear of judgment and a lack of their own understanding about being wrapped around someone’s finger.

When confronted of the ignorance, guilty parties tend to flee from the truth.

There is no game when emotions are objectified.

Dependency is only natural, but for whatever reason, we look toward an emotional blanket to serve as an outlet for our deficiencies.

When momentarily thrown shreds of hope appear, no matter how thin, we will grab what we can to weave confidence and affirmation that there is a bond founded on love, while having efforts finally acknowledged and our truths shouted louder than our entertained uncertainty.

Brent Bainto is social media editor of The Advocate.

Contact him at bbainto. advocate@gmail.com.

T

hough obviously said in jest and beckoning only the types of replies delivered in an equally facetious manner, his words triggered the fake placeholder laugh.

I needed a momentary diversion while I replayed the countless scenarios where I glazed over the supposed axiom.

“You can’t argue with results.”

The reel slows. The blur of retrospect becomes the morning fog of Fremont.

Floating up, the exchange is made. The ball leaves my fingertips and slams into the backboard just as the mist blankets my exposed hands and face.

Acting out the script, I can still feel the damp skin as I wipe the sweat from my forehead with a hand coated in gritty dirt with not a thought of acne.

A nylon ring triggers

the world follows.

“Are you OK, man?”

My skin is dry. I The process, look up at the rippling to them summer sky. Like held the Pavlovian reactions of being the accomplishment. The dance perfect disbegins. tance from utmost “What are you doing?” a magnifyDancing, of course. Surely, ing glass, importance, he must be shyly asking for I can feel tips on how to make such an his conthe result of amazing shot or how to folcentrated low the rhythm. stare. I tell which was him what “Your form was all he wants to wrong.” nearly My dad cannot possibly be hear.

He walks objecting to one of the clearest forms of success imagin- ahead of irrelevant. able. I say that it went in. My me and begins talking to another dad explains why that is no friend, his mouth still moving way to live one’s life. inaudibly from my perspecBefore I can stop them, tive as he periodically looks those familiar words escape my lips’ capture. back.

He shakes his head, and This time the blur only

alecsurmani

forms borders around my visual frame. Peripheral fuzz reminds me of reading about societies before the invention of social classes, their languages built on verbs, actions, and not nouns, categorization.

The process, properly performed by those with the ability and willingness to listen for its message, to them held the utmost importance, the result of which was nearly irrelevant.

I think about my recent outcomes.

Then I wonder if they matter as long as I enjoyed what led up to them.

I laugh at how I used to make fun of people who took things too seriously.

“Wait up!”

Alec Surmani is an associate editor of The Advocate.

Contact him at asurmani. advocate@gmail.com.

Faces of feminism Iconic movement broad, diverse, still pertinent

earnings, while women who work as customer service representatives earn 93.6 percent of men’s earnings.

In his recent State of the Union address, President Obama expressed a commitment “to crack down on violations of equal pay laws — so that women get equal pay for an equal day’s work.” Until then, women and

By Lauren Shiraishi men are not yet fully equals in the OPINION EDITOR workplace.

One of the more obvious results eminism; it is one of the most of feminism is the passage of the taboo “F” words in the dictionNineteenth Amendment, which was ary. ratified in 1920.

Until it was passed, According to Merriam-Webster women had been denied the right to Online, the definition of feminism is vote.

If feminism did not exist, we the theory of the political, economic would be without the rights many of and social equality of the sexes. Yet us in this country take for granted. somewhere along the line, its meanWomen would not be allowed ing was misinterpreted, and feminism access to birth control and aborbecame a dirty word with a negative tion, which could end up resulting in connotation. thousands of unwanted children and Men and women alike often botched or fatal back-alley abortions. (wrongly) peg feminists as crazed, Furthermore, women would not be angry man-haters who reject all traces allowed to get a divorce or file for of femininity, when in reality, femisexual harassment. nism has very little to do with one’s The portrayal of females by the “feminine” qualities. media, however, only reinforces the While it is true that some feminists argument that there is still a need for are lesbians, feminism has nothing to feminism.

Media have played their do with one’s sexual orientation. Both role in the vilification of feminism lesbians and straight women can be — also known as post-feminism backconsidered feminists. lash.

Feminism is about women taking Movies in the ’80s, such as “Fatal steps toward social change and taking Attraction,” portrayed career women whatever path they want to follow in as an enemy to society; they have life, whether it is becoming the CEO neglected their duties as good wives of a large company, a doctor searching and mothers by choosing to work. for the cure to breast cancer or even a Modern films continue to draw housewife. negative attention to women as well, While it can very easily be argued particularly in action films, where that opting to become a stay-at-home they are almost always saved by men. mom is not a “real” occupation, the beauty of feminism is that it offers the “Chick flicks” also do women little justice, as the power of choice. There is a difference between staying in the home because one chooses to, as opposed to being forced into doing so.

Unfortunately, there are still many women who shy away from even being associated with the word “feminism.” Some young women may be hesitant to refer to themselves as feminists because they fear the negative labels they may be pinned with.

In this society, there exists a stigma that if a woman is assertive, she is a bitch. It is unfortunate when women do not consider themselves feminists, particularly when it is because of feminism that we have the rights we do.

Another reason why women may not associate themselves with feminism is because they simply believe there is no longer a reason for it.

They may argue that women have all the rights they need and that equality between the sexes has been achieved.

While it is true that we have made progress toward closing this gap, it remains that women are paid less than men, even if they are both doing the exact same job.

A fact sheet released by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research in April 2009 concludes that women earn smaller salaries than men in many jobs, even within occupations more commonly held by women.

These jobs include teachers, secretaries and nurses. Female retail sales managers earn 71.2 percent of men’s

F

underlying message is that women need to be in a relationship in order to find happiness.

Both triggering and resulting from the American society’s obsession with sex is the pornography industry, in which women cease to be human beings and become sexual objects. By allowing themselves to be put in such degrading situations, women radiate the message that they are weak and submissive, and this may encourage men to think using violence against them is justified. Until this attitude is changed, men and women will never be truly perceived as equals.

Just as beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, the face of feminism is broad and diverse. Almost anyone can be a feminist, from the average college girl to the major businesswoman.

Feminists are willing to stand up for issues that matter to them, ranging from achieving pay parity to putting a stop to domestic violence.

There have been plenty of women in our society who have successfully fought to make a difference in the world, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Eleanor Roosevelt, Dolores Huerta and Rosa Parks. On the other hand, men who perceive women as equal partners can be considered feminists as well.

Feminists strive for equality among all people, not just women. They believe that everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, race or sexual orientation, deserve equal rights.

Who could argue with that?

Contact Lauren Shiraishi at lshiraishi.advocate@gmail.com.

CODY MCFARLAND/THE ADVOCATE

4 THE ADVOCATE

CAMPUS BEAT

l WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010

accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

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Receive breaking news and updates by following The Advocate’s Twitter account, AccentAdvocate.

Newsline ■ TRUSTEE

District seeks candidates Contra Costa College will be selecting a student trustee to serve the Governing Board for the 2010-11 academic year.

A meeting will be held today from noon to 1 p.m. in the ASU chambers discussing requirements.

For more information, contact the ASU office at 510-235-5279.

■ CULINARY

Cooks ready surf and turf The culinary arts department is hosting a Surf and Turf Cook-Off Thursday in the Three Seasons Restaurant from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is a $5 cover charge.

Guests will be able to vote for their favorite choice of chicken and crab recipes, and a winner will be selected.

■ WORKSHOP

Scholarships explained The scholarship office is hosting a personal statement workshop in the Fireside Room today from 2:30-4 p.m.

English professor Barbara McClain will coach students on writing persuasive essays effective for scholarship applications.

■ CLUBS

Event marks black history The African-American studies department and the Black Student Union (BSU) will be celebrating the annual African American History event Feb. 11 from 7-9 p.m.

For more information, contact the BSU at 510-2357800, ext. 4237.

CrimeWatch Sunday, Dec. 13 A robbery was reported.

Tuesday, Dec. 15 A staff member reported the theft of money from her office.

Saturday, Jan. 9 A student’s vehicle was burglarized while in class.

The case is under investigation.

Friday, Jan. 15 An officer responded to a medical report of a female who fell down the stairs in the Knox Center.

Saturday, Jan. 16 Subject was stopped for a traffic violation, and it was determined that his driver’s license was suspended.

Subject was cited for a suspended license, vehicle registration requirements and evidence of financial responsibility.

Tuesday, Jan. 19 Subject was stopped for a traffic violation, and it was determined his driver’s license was suspended.

Subject was cited for a suspended license, possession of marijuana, evidence of financial responsibility and stoplight violation.

— James Heck

Section cuts spark competition Spring offerings down 10 percent

By Cody McFarland STAFF ILLUSTRATOR

As 2010 begins, the statewide budget crisis ushers in a new semester full of academic competition among students as a direct result of section cuts.

Active course sections have been reduced by 10 percent at Contra Costa College since last spring due to budget cuts, resulting in reduced access to classes for students, Vice President Carol Maga said.

“There are far more students than the college can serve,” she said.

“There are more full-time equivalent students than the state can fund, and it is affecting all colleges throughout California.”

The 91-section difference from spring 2009 is forcing students to be

more competitive in registering early to obtain desired courses, as well as in earning higher marks in order to rank above other students, Senior Dean of Research and Planning Timothy Clow said.

“The economy has driven students to enroll early,” he said. “There has been an 11 percent increase in students enrolling early since last spring.”

Teachers are taking over their class maximums to accommodate for the masses of students attempting to take their courses, Maga said.

Students are now faced with concerns for class availability, especially those with day jobs in need of night classes and the quality of teaching in overcrowded classrooms, Maga said.

They are at a higher risk to fall behind or have their questions overlooked and unanswered, she said.

Many students that hoped to show up the first week and get classes are not having any success and are find-

ing that options are severely limited, Maga said.

“I find the class situation very annoying,” student Faythe Del Rosario said. “All the classes I wanted were full and had full waitlists.

Now I’m taking classes that are still good for transferring, but they’re not the classes I wanted.”

Student Kyle Armstrong, on the other hand, had absolutely no problem registering for sections because of priority registration. He was able to apply about a month before those without priority, he said.

Now that the semester has started, however, Armstrong has noticed overcrowding in his classes, made apparent by the many students that stand in the back of his economics class since no desks are available, he said.

Decision-making regarding which sections to cut was put in the hands of department chairpersons and division deans, Maga said. They have strategically made cuts to have the

least amount of impact on students, while maintaining the integrity of program continuity, she said.

Accordingly, cuts were avoided in specialized programs so that students can finish their degrees with the required specific courses, Maga said.

The budget cuts have affected more than just sections, however, with the college seeing cuts for assessments, counseling and student services, including EOPS and DSPS, Maga said.

Counselors in the Student Services Center are losing hours of availability due to the budget cuts, rendering the recent addition to the campus less effective than initially intended.

“I waited over an hour to see a counselor, but had to leave for class before I could be seen,” Del Rosario said.

Contact Cody McFarland at cmcfarland.advocate@gmail.com.

Payton | Life of ‘patience and love’ ■ FROM: Page 1

said.

With a bottomless desire to help others, Payton spent years as a teaching assistant for the special education community at schools in Richmond and Kensington.

She also worked as a nurse’s aide in multiple convalescent establishments in 1971.

“She was just a giver,” said Tom Kinnard, CCC physical education professor emeritus. “(She was) always giving for those kids and anybody she knew.”

Kinnard met Payton in the ’80s after a few of her students from the transition program enrolled in a fitness class he taught.

Having little experience working in special education, Kinnard was impressed by the “patience and love” Payton devoted to her students, he said.

“She had a special way with those kids, and those kids just loved her to death,” Kinnard said. “I’ve never seen another aide as good as her before and since she left.”

President McKinley Williams agreed, noting Payton’s engaging spirit and selflessness.

“The way she worked with her students, (you could see) she was a caring, sensitive woman,” he said. “That kind of spirit is what we need when you’re working with students who are challenged one way or another.”

A memorial service was

held on Jan. 13 at the Pilgrim productions.

“Even though it was just Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond, where her, she was able to go to dozens filled the room, everything and it was all right,” Lea said.

Emeson said.

Years later Payton met her “There wasn’t anyone that didn’t know her,” she said. second husband, Willie Lee “The people (at the memo- Payton Jr., and together they rial) were just a little fraction continued building the founof who (Payton) influenced.” dation of a loving family.

“She was just loving and Born on Aug. 17, 1940 in Thomasville, N.C. to James very helpful to everyone,” Franklin and Minnie Mae granddaughter Kyieira Lea said. “She Henderson, contributed a Payton was the fifth of 10 “When (Payton) lot to (many) peoples’ children. moved through lives.”

A f t e r Outside of graduating this campus, no work, Payton from Church matter who she was an active Street School in 1958, interacted with, member of her church Payton moved she sort of lit up and served with her older on the usher sister to New their life for a board. She Jersey, where she met and moment, (because was also a married the they) recognized member of the Order of late William Kersey before that somebody else the Eastern they moved Star, a relicared.” gious organito Richmond, zation.

Calif. and Sally Emeson, Branching had two chiltransition program instructor from her insadren, Kerry and Kim. tiable appetite After their divorce around for helping others, Payton 1978, however, Payton took enjoyed cooking and would on the responsibility as a always host Sunday dinners, single parent, balancing two Kyieira said. jobs to support herself and Whether making her trademark, original yeast her children.

Daughter Kim Lea said rolls or whole holiday dinners that despite constantly work- for Christmas, Thanksgiving, ing, Payton still made it a Easter and even St. Patrick’s priority to attend all of their Day, Payton embedded spirit school functions such as art into her cooking, she said. shows, concerts and drama “She found joy in seeing

Cars

to it that other people were OK, people she loved and even sometimes people she hardly knew,” Kyieira said.

“She liked to make people smile.”

It was not until later that Payton’s son had a stroke and brain surgery in 2007 that left one side of his body paralyzed.

Consequently, Payton, without question, decided to spend her final years taking care of her son.

“Ever since he had his stroke, she had been taking care of him,” Kim said.

“It’s what she did until she couldn’t do it anymore.”

Since Payton’s death, Emeson has created an Emma Payton memorial account at Mechanics Bank collecting donations to help continue and support her son.

Emeson said, “Throughout these years, she cared for him day and night until she couldn’t. She fought like an incredible solider for her son to make sure he was cared for.”

Payton is survived by her husband, son, daughter, four grandchildren, three step grandchildren, five brothers, four sisters, nieces, nephews and adopted family members.

Kinnard said, “The world lost a fantastic human being.”

Contact Asia Camagong at acamagong. advocate@gmail.com.

Carter | Coach tackles off season ■ FROM: Page 1

Carter has been used to portraying in his 11 years as a head football coach, leading both of his high school football squads to a combined record of 82-42-3, winning several league titles and sending a total of 27 players from both high schools to D-I (division one) colleges.

“The challenge of winning and losing isn’t a factor with me,” Carter said. “My thing about being a coach is having the students move on to the next level to be accepted into four-year colleges.”

Carter’s main goal for the football

team is making sure that players are going to class, maintaining their grades and staying physically fit.

“A big plus I have from other coaches is that I actually went to CCC and came back to the school to receive my A.A. degree last semester, so I have a better connection with the players,” Carter said. “I have to change people’s negative outlook on Contra Costa and create a positive one.”

Carter is looking forward to the upcoming season, expecting about 100 athletes coming in to CCC to play football, with the addition of several players from last season returning to the team.

“I feel good about being here and the team is pretty excited about the upcoming season,” Carter said. “We’re not going to be taking the back seat to other schools such as Laney College and Diablo Valley College.”

Wade said Carter was by far the best candidate for the job, and the athletic department is glad to have him.

“Carter has been very successful and his maturation to get the players to the next level is what he brings to the table as a coach,” he said.

Contact Malcolm Lastra at mlastra.advocate@gmail.com.

■ FROM: Page 1

cover all parts of the campus, but unfortunately they cannot be everywhere at once all the time.

“We are working together to have things like this not happen,” Huddleston said.

“Our officers take pride in what we do, and want to do the best we can to ensure safety on campus.”

Car thefts are down from last spring, Oliveira said, so he does not believe a ring or group of people are responsible for the spring semester’s recent automotive theft and burglary.

“I remember when my car was stolen from up by the Physical Sciences Building, and it was one of the worst feelings I ever experienced,” former student Brooke Locklin said.

When she was a student at Contra Costa College, Locklin and two of her friends were walking back to her car when she discovered it missing, along with all of her belongings.

Locklin’s vehicle was found, but was not in working condition.

She said she had to buy a new car and the situation turned out to be a hassle for her.

Oliveira said students need to take extra precautions and consider anti-theft devices, such as alarms, wheel locks, not leaving any valuables in plain view and remembering to lock doors.

Locklin said she in fact does takes careful precautions, always checking her car doors to see if they are locked and turning on her alarm.

Officials have had other problems take place on campus, Oliveira said. They do not only focus on preventing car theft, but all crime at CCC. “The (Bus Transfer Center) is one of our main concerns, too,” Oliveira said.

This is because that is where a lot of the crime is generated, he said.

Contact Lamar James at ljames.advocate@gmail. com.

Enrollment | Less resources, more students ■ FROM: Page 1

“This is a real difficult time for a lot of people,” Valera said. “And I understand the need to learn new skills, but the sizes of the classrooms are ridiculous.”

While the college wants to accommodate every student, “it is harder to better meet the needs of students with full enrollment,” Senior Dean of Students Frank Hernandez said.

There is a lack of funds to provide tools to better enrich the student learning environment.

Hernandez said that CCC gets a certain amount of money for students who are taking a full load of units. If the college goes over the number of students it gets paid for, then it will not receive all the money, he said.

The college will then have to pay for the extra students, Hernandez said. This leaves the college in a deficit.

California’s budget deficit has department been very busy in trying impacted college campuses all to assist students efficiently, but is understaffed with 10 around, said Christina full-time counselors, Rathavongsa, a student who works at “This is always a two part-time counselors, one general the EOPS informacrunch time for and one EOPS. tion desk. She said that fewer people “We are seeing a us. Working on number were accepted for the of problems EOPS program. fewer hours, less occurring with stuNow there is a dents,” Baylis-Payne deadlock, mean- staff and cuts, we said. ing the program will are really trying to She said the classnot be accepting es are so full, students any more students. make students the who really need classRathavongsa said es to graduate are not first priority.” this is really stressing getting them because some students out, they have reached Ollie Baylis-Payne, but most are undercapacity. counselor standable.

Also, Baylis-Payne The budget cuts said the counseling and full enrollment has had a major department is trying to help students impact on the counseling depart- as best it can, but it can only do so ment. Counselor Ollie Baylis-Payne much with the little resources it has. said that not only has the counseling “This has really been an over-

whelming time for all of us, but we will continue to serve students and give them the advice they need to get by and advance on to the next level of education,” Baylis-Payne said.

Admissions and Records Director Michael Aldaco said this is the busiest time of the semester.

“This is always a crunch time for us. Working on fewer hours, less staff and cuts, we are really trying to make students the first priority,” he said.

Baylis-Payne said the college is experiencing a ripple effect of the economy. ”It is a really bad time right now, but we have to continue to help students and continue to do our jobs, so that students can continue to be successful.”

Contact Lamar James at ljames. advocate@gmail.com.

CAMPUS BEAT

Sociable youth led with passion Dedicated performer had ‘genuine heart’

By Holly Pablo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Sandra Doane and Zaydoc Bratton, III. Their great-aunt, Barbara Bratton, raised the twins in Richmond. Growing up, they were ushers at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church and raised to be devout Christians, attending every week and traveling for state and national conventions.

Education was important to Bratton. He attended Washington Elementary, Helms Middle and received his diploma from Richmond High School, his brother Corey Bratton said.

Long-time friend Michara Johnson said Bratton pushed himself to do what he had to do and get things done.

“He was a straight-A student and people would always come to him, asking for life advice,” she said.

He was very loving and thoughtful, Johnson said, and always did the best that he could to help his family and friends.

Bratton was not the type of person that associated with the wrong crowd or got into trouble, his brother said.

“He was very sociable. Everywhere he went, he could make friends,” Corey said.

Bratton is survived by his parents, seven brothers and seven sisters.

On Feb. 14, Bratton’s favorite holiday, Valentine’s Day, RYSE is hosting an event from 3-6 p.m. to celebrate his life. Leaders Opposing Violence through Entertainment, also known as LOVE, will feature Bratton’s recorded work.

“He always had a smile on his face. That will definitely be missed,” RYSE operations assistant Jenabi Pareja said.

Kyle Bratton, a Contra Costa College student, community youth leader and dedicated musician and performer, also known as “Lil’ Twin,” died on Dec. 14 at the age of 19.

Just four days before he was killed, Bratton was recording an original song in the studio at the Richmond Youth Student Empowerment (RYSE) Center in Richmond, a youth facility he helped design.

As part of the original Leadership Team, not only did Bratton encourage the walls to be painted his favorite color, purple, but he also wrote the RYSE theme song.

“Music and writing seemed natural to him,” RYSE Media Arts Program Coordinator Fred Thomas said. “He had the genuine heart and passion for it, especially on stage.”

The Richmond resident was walking on South 17th Street and Virginia Avenue at approximately 10:36 a.m. with his girlfriend when an unidentified man approached and shot Bratton in the back, Richmond Police Detective Avon Dobie said.

Bratton was airlifted to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek and died of gunshot wounds at 2 p.m., Dobie said.

Thomas said, “He was a youth growing up in this community, yet he was not of this community. He had larger goals and musical aspirations.”

Contact Holly Pablo Bratton was born on March 23, 1990 in San Francisco after a twin brother, Corey, to advocate@gmail.com.

at

hpablo.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

5

Bratton | Murdered ■ FROM: Page A1

Bratton

Contra Costa College student Kyle Bratton, 19, a community leader and dedicated musician and performer, died on Dec. 14.

Known also as “Lil’ Twin,” Bratton was revered for his “genuine heart and passion.”

While walking on South 17th Street and Virginia Avenue with his girlfriend, an unidentified man approached and shot Bratton in the back. He was airlifted to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek and died of gunshot wounds just hours later.

Center in Walnut Creek and pronounced dead at 2 p.m., RPD Detective Avon Dobie said.

The suspects were described by witnesses as two AfricanAmerican males in their late teens to early 20s, both wearing blue jeans. One person was wearing a red shirt and a black jacket, and the other was wearing a dark brown coat, a hooded sweater and a beanie over his head.

They were last seen fleeing the scene on foot, running south on South 17th St toward Florida Avenue, Gagan said, and though the proximity of the crime was searched, detectives were unable to locate any suspects.

Dobie said that police detectives are investigating leads, but cannot disclose details about the case.

Corey Bratton, Kyle Bratton’s twin brother, said that prior to the incident, Kyle and his girlfriend stopped by Corey’s girlfriend’s house in hopes of finding him.

After finding that his brother was not there, Kyle and his girlfriend stopped to chat with Corey’s girlfriend’s family about a bike that Kyle gave to his brother’s girlfriend’s son.

They left shortly thereafter on foot and no more than a few minutes later, Kyle was shot less than a block away, Corey said.

“He wasn’t the type to be in trouble and if he was in some trouble, he would have let me know,” Corey said. “He was always the type to keep the peace.”

Bratton was pursuing a degree in music, and hoped to become a

“He wasn’t the type to be in trouble and if he was in some trouble, he would let me know. He was always the type to keep the peace.”

Corey Bratton,

Kyle Bratton’s brother

producer one day, Corey said.

As Bratton was a volunteer and regular at Richmond’s RYSE Center, a youth and adult leadership partnership that aims to stop the violence in the community, Gagan agreed.

“This murder sent shockwaves through the community,” Gagan said.

Hundreds of people attended the funeral at Antioch Baptist Church in Richmond, he said, fully dressed in purple, Bratton’s favorite color.

He was the 47th homicide victim of 2009, Gagan said.

Gagan said that the department is offering a $10,000 reward for anyone who is willing to come forward with information leading to an arrest for this unsolved case.

Those with information can contact Dobie at 510-831-3053 or call the anonymous tip line at 510-232-8477.

Contact Holly Pablo at hpablo.advocate@gmail.com.

Event salutes history, present When Senior Dean of Instruction Frank Hernandez recruited 17-yearEDITOR-IN-CHIEF old Padilla as he visited Richmond High School, she could not speak Though the college faces many English very well and was also pregchallenges in the midst of the state nant. budget crisis, scarce resources will Coming to college was difficult, not prevent the school from serving Padilla said, but she had a natural the community as it has for the past talent for math that was recognized 60 years. by the faculty members she encoun“This is a new year with new tered. beginnings,” ASU President Kristina In turn, they encouraged her to Bautista said. “We’re bringing all stretch her originally planned visions that we have to of a business manoffer. It’s another agement certifichance to make a “This is the place that cate into the field difference.” made me who I am of sciences.

As part of All A member today.”

College Day, a of the Center welcoming profor Science Dr. Myra Padilla, gram held at the Excellence, she Stanford Research Center beginning of each received nine out neuropsychologist semester, faculty, of the 28 scholarstaff and student ships she applied government leaders met on Jan. 21 for and attended UC Davis for a in LA-100 to reflect on Contra Costa bachelor’s degree and received her College’s history and celebrate the doctorate from UC Berkeley. present.

“Someone saw that I had potenPresident McKinley Williams tial,” Padilla said, as she urged the presented a timeline via Microsoft teachers, faculty and staff to conPowerPoint that focused on nota- tinue reaching out to students. “Just ble events in the college’s history, (offer) a smile. It’s really about each such as Dr. Martin Luther King of you.”

Jr.’s speech in the Gymnasium in Williams said, “Working here is February 1964. not a job. It is a passion.

Also, it featured the hiring dates “We change lives, one student at of employees, many of which attend- a time,” he said. “They are products ed CCC, and several alumni success of this institution, and we are proud stories, including updates to their of them.” lives after leaving the college.

Williams said the college’s 60th Dr. Myra Padilla, a neuropsy- year marks the beginning of somechologist at the Stanford Research thing larger, and he is looking forCenter, was present to retrace her ward to a great semester. steps to the crowd.

Contact Holly Pablo at hpablo.

“This was really a safe haven for me,” Padilla said. “This is the place advocate@gmail.com. that made me who I am today.”

By Holly Pablo

DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE

Imparting advice — Speech and Debate Team member Mahak Hassan explains at All College Day on Jan. 20 in LA-100 how much she values going to Contra Costa College despite original plans to go to UC Berkeley or Stanford. The event honored the college’s history.

District approves changes in parking policy Permit, ticket fee hike to start fall semester

By Alexandra Waite STAFF WRITER

A district proposal to increase the cost of parking permits and citation fees as a means to gain more revenue for Police Services was approved by the Governing Board on Dec. 9.

Although the increase for parking permits will not go into effect until the fall semester, the new cost of citation fees, raised from $35 to $40, are in effect as of Jan. 1, Police Services Sgt. Jose Oliveira said.

Once the plan goes into effect, semester permits will rise from $35 to $40 and daily permits will rise from $2 to $3. “(The fee increase) equates to a $10 a year increase for students who park on campus,” Police Services Chief Charles Gibson

books,” biological sciences major Sharde said.

Oliveira said the revenue from the fee Malone said. “I had to save up just to buy increase would go toward restoring and this semester’s permit.”

Before the price of term-length permits improving parking lots and police aide salacan go up, an online service must be set up ries.

“Over the last couple years, we had to cut for students to purchase their permit online and receive them in the student police aide hours mail, Oliveira said. by 45 percent,” Oliveira Gibson told The said. “Fewer hours means “I don’t think (the Advocate last December a decrease in patrolling the parking lots, walking stu- increase) is fair when that by making permits available to students, dents to cars, driving stuyou think about the more long lines of students purdents to classes and opencost of tuition and chasing permits and texting classrooms.”

The cuts also decrease books at the beginning of books.” the ability of students to the semester can be allevihave off-campus jobs, he ated.

Sharde Malone, The parking machines said. biological sciences major must have a credit ATM Some students are worfeature installed before the ried about how they will manage their money when the parking fee daily permit charge can increase, Oliveira increase goes into effect. said.

“I don’t think (the increase) is fair when “One of the reasons we raised the fees you think about the cost of tuition and was so we could put up online permits and

be able to accommodate students with credit cards,” Gibson said.

No future increases are expected now that the college has reached the maximum amount to charge for parking, Oliveira said.

Malone said she will still drive to school after the fee increase, but it would not be good for her financially.

“I wish they would lower the prices,” she said.

Oliveira said the state played a big role in the citation fee increase by changing its surcharge from $1.50 to $4.50 per citation.

The district parking fees were last increased on Jan. 17, 2003.

“Chabot College and Ohlone College are the only community colleges in the Bay Area who are not charging the maximum amount for parking,” he said.

The price of semester permits during the summer will remain $20.

Contact Alexandra Waite at awaite. advocate@gmail.com.

6 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010

CAMPUS BEAT

Serenading sounds raise funds for club Karaoke earns EOPS money

By Lamar James NEWS EDITOR

DESMOND SYLVA / THE ADVOCATE

Up close — Students Lauren Banayat and Dennis McCollins sing together at the karaoke event in the Recreation Room Friday.

Songs of towering recording artists in the music industry such as Keith Sweat, the Dixie Chicks and Jewel boomed from the Recreation Room Friday. Though the real celebrities were not headlining at the college, their karaoke counterparts lit up the stage.

Musical performance enthusiasts joined for an evening of fun to celebrate the EOPS Club’s Karaoke Celebration Night.

EOPS Club Vice President Dionne Short said karaoke is a great way to come together to have fun.

“This all started from the Christmahanakwanzaka celebration from last semester,” she said. “There was a karaoke disc jockey playing, and we thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be fun if we could do this on a regular basis?’”

She said the idea was not farfetched or far from a reality, so the club planned the event for this semester, finally coming to fruition last week.

“We are also fundraising for the EOPS scholarship, so that we will be able to present it to someone this year,” Short said. “We can now come together for a good cause and have a good time doing (it).”

Student Lauren Banayat enjoyed the night with her fiancé, student Dennis McCollins.

“Karaoke is really awesome, and I love to sing,” Banayat said.

McCollins said that singing karaoke is about having fun, relaxing and spending quality time together.

“I enjoy hearing (Banayat) sing. She has a wonderful voice,” he said. “From time to time, I don’t mind getting up there and performing a song or two.”

Banayat ended up winning the favor of the event’s judges and taking first place in the competition.

San Pablo City Council member Paul Morris also joined students, ASU members and EOPS counselors for a night of joyfully inspired singing.

“I love to visit the college every time I am here. I just feel at home,” Morris said. “I have many good friends here, and it is just an awesome place to be.”

Morris said he used to fre-

quently visit karaoke clubs to sing a tune or two, but with him being so busy he could no longer go.

He said that he was not only there to sing karaoke, but also wanted to support the young adult education and the positive things that were going on in the city.

“I really have a vested interested in the youth and the activities of the youth. That is one of my top priorities,” Morris said. “This is a small, but powerful group, and it is good to see students support the EOPS Club. So anything I can do to show that same support is really my pleasure.”

EOPS Club President De’zell McCray, who was awarded second place by the judges, said it was good to see the people come out and participate, but he would have liked to see more participation among the students from Contra Costa College.

If the club was to take better advantage of advertisements, he said the next one will be better.

McCray agreed.

“This was a small but powerful group, but it still shows that we can rally together, and raise funds for a greater cause,” he said.

Contact Lamar James at ljames.advocate@gmail.com.

Enriquez case lacking strong leads Carlson Boulevard in Richmond on July 27. Enriquez had picked up VillaSPOTLIGHT EDITOR Zarco and best friend Sean Desrek Moore from their place of employment There have been five homicides in Albany, dropping Moore off at his in the city of Richmond to date in home minutes before the incident, Sgt. 2010, following in the wake of 47 Lee Hendricson of the investigating last year, according to the Richmond team said.

Police Department. There is one case, Unknown assailants shot multiple however, that is of particular interest to rounds of gunfire at their car, hitting many at Contra Costa College. both victims, Hendricson said. VillaFormer student Leticia Enriquez, 28, Zarco died at the scene and Enriquez along with her fiancé Juan Villa-Zarco, was pronounced dead at the hospital, 25, were shot to death while driving he said. northbound, coming to a stoplight at To date, however, little progress has the corner of South 47th Street and been made toward finding the shooter,

By Cassandra Juniel

Hendricson said.

“As we’re doing as much as possible to solve, not only this case but many others, there has not been enough solid information to pursue making any arrests,” he said. “We have followed up on several potential leads, but none have provided anything concrete with which to work in this case.”

He did, however, note plans to continue the department’s investigation.

It was just last spring that Enriquez began attending CCC, participating in the East Bay Career Advancement Academy program, majoring in automotive technology.

“Enriquez changed her major to become a teacher to the young people in Mexico and was to have begun this field in the fall of 2009,” Moore said.

A reward continues to be offered for anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of person or persons responsible.

The public is encouraged to leave information anonymously on the 24hour Crime Tip hotline at 510-232TIPS (8477).

Contact Cassandra Juniel at cjuniel.advocate@gmail.com.

Enriquez

Contra Costa College student Leticia Enriquez, 28, was shot and killed on July 27 in Richmond.

The case has no leads.

MOORE NAMED DEAN

By Cassandra Juniel SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

Excitement is high and arms are open wide for one individual ready to backfill the interim senior dean of instruction position vacated by Dr. Donna Floyd.

“She can definitely handle this position,” said Dr. Timothy Clow, senior dean of resources and planning.

Long-time Contra Costa College employee Jeanette Moore now fills the administrative position, effective Jan. 11. She replaces Floyd, who moved on to serve as interim vice president of student services for Diablo Valley College on Dec. 1. Both Moore and Floyd’s interim positions are through June 30, 2010.

“I became acquainted with Jeanette when I started working for CCC in 1985, while I worked in matriculation. It was at this time that we began a working relationship and became good friends,” Clow said. “She is a living resource and I am thrilled to have her back as my colleague.”

Some of the responsibilities Moore will continue to do include the overseeing of Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs), scheduling for classes, Title V compliance and the

day-to-day responsibilities for the general flow of instruction, as well as assistance to division deans who report to her. A key area is to be involved with all communications related to instruction.

From admitting students to evaluating and awarding degrees in her past, Moore gives direction in the catalog and schedule area, with people presently in the position.

Eighty percent of her position is interim senior dean of instruction, and 20 percent is dedicated to catalog and scheduling, she said.

With 31 years of CCC experience, Moore brings to the position significant knowledge from the area of admissions and records, where she began her CCC career as an assistant at three different levels, then to supervisor, manager and then retiring as dean of enrollment services in April 2004.

“I am delighted to have Jeanette here. She brings a wealth of experience to our district, as well as our college,” Vice President Carol Maga said. “She brings extensive knowledge of scheduling, as well as how classes are managed in Datatel (an operating system) to the college, as well as exemplifies excellent people skills.”

After two months of retirement in 2004, Moore was called to work in such positions as interim and

part-time positions at Compton College, Solano Community College and DVC, as well as a consultant for Kaiser School of Allied Health Sciences.

“I was also called back to CCC to work in the Admission and Records Office for approximately three months, as the position had been open for two years,” Moore said.

Moore is known to also carry a unique working and teaching style to those that work for her that cause day-to-day operations to run smoothly, similar to that of Floyd.

“Moore has so far begun each work day fully ready to identify and negotiate barriers to effective department operations, being consistently available to faculty, students and staff and answering complex questions with clear explanations and directives,” administrative employee Anasa Tatum said. “I am excited about having an opportunity to work with and learn from Mrs. Moore. I have already learned a great deal from her about how the instruction office tasks I am responsible for support the broader campus. Mrs. Moore’s teaching style is very effective,” she said.

Of the projects most enjoyed throughout, Moore noted the task of troubleshooting.

“If I can find a problem, I enjoy

ERIK VERDUZCO / THE ADVOCATE

Filling the void — New interim Senior Dean of Instruction Jeanette Moore sorts through the mounds of paperwork in her office in AA-203 Monday. resolving it through troubleshoot- the work I am to do, providing the ing. I enjoy it, as well as research best service that I can.” with Datatel — determining what Contact Cassandra Juniel at the problem is and how we fix it,” Moore said. “As long as I am in the cjuniel.advocate@gmail.com. position, I want to be dedicated to

Community celebrates ‘King’ of civil rights

By Diana Reyes OPINION EDITOR

The diversity among the audience present at the Knox Center on Jan. 16 was a remarkable asset to the celebration of the 81st birthday of the late Martin Luther King Jr. Helen Kalkstein, dean of the Communication, Liberal Arts, Skills and Services Division, said King visited Contra Costa College and spoke here on Feb. 14, 1964.

The celebration held a variety of activities, including dances and musical performances from local schools and speeches from community officials such as Richmond Mayor Gayle McLaughlin, founder of the event district Governing Board President

Anthony Gordon and Contra Costa County District I Supervisor John Gioia, who has attended the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday celebration for over 10 years. “(It is) a great event and you will leave inspired,” Gioia said. “I thank Contra Costa College and President McKinley Williams.

“We must accept finite disappointment,” Gioia quoted King. “But never lose infinite hope.”

He associated King’s words with the current economical crisis. He spoke about the energy and hope the city of Richmond possessed and the importance of not settling with the current status.

McLaughlin described a peace march she attended at MLK Park where young children marched and “shared their hopes and dreams.” It was the joy of a generation that

will not be held back, she said.

“This event is always a great time to celebrate Martin Luther King and say, ‘Thank you, Martin Luther King,’” she said.

The celebration initiated with a brief moment of silence from sociology department Chairman J. Vern Cromartie, honoring the lives of those affected by the earthquake in Haiti.

Students from the Speech and Debate Team discussed segregation, lynching and racial prejudice.

They emphasized the importance of “pulling out a seat or two to make sure everyone has a seat at the table of brotherhood.”

Also, the celebration hosted a number of entertainment acts. Among those was a musical act headed by Middle College High School students and led by instructor Israel

Sims who also performed with the students.

Vista High School also performed a number conducted by Sims.

Additionally, the Salesian High School band performed a song by the late Bob Marley, titled “Is This Love?”

The Contra Costa College Gospel Choir, with its performance of the song “We Shall Overcome,” served as the closing act.

Other performances were also showcased by the Wilson Elementary Lady Tigers Cheerleading Team, the Richmond College Prep Charter School and El Cerrito High School Dancers and a dance performance by the Mexican Folklorico instructed by Sergio Nicolas.

Contact Diana Reyes advocate@gmail.com.

at

dreyes.

SPOTLIGHT

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

Country gathers for relief efforts Volunteers aid disaster in Haiti

By Cassandra Juniel SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

If there was ever a time that America has come together to lend a helping hand, it is now.

This time has come as a result of a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck southern Haiti on Jan. 12 and was centered approximately 10 miles southwest of Portau-Prince, according to the United States Geological Survey report. It is said to be the most powerful to hit Haiti in a century.

The quake knocked down buildings and power lines and inflicting what its ambassador to the United States called “a catastrophe for the Western Hemisphere’s poorest nation.”

John Wade, Contra Costa College athletic director and presi-

dent of the African American Staff Association said those not familiar with Haiti cannot even envision the living conditions there.

“They have no clean water, no food or hygiene items and no matter how fast relief efforts are coming in, that is still not enough,” he said. “Prior to the earthquake, poverty was so prevalent that they lived on salaries of $1 an hour. The disaster has made it even worse.”

The Pan American Health Organization, a group coordinating the health sector response, offered a preliminary estimate of 200,000 dead, of which 28 of them were Americans, according to the U.S. State Department on Jan. 19.

Organizations, such as the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Salvation Army, Red Cross, World Vision and Feed the Children, have been known to be the leaders in relief efforts during major disasters.

The Red Cross is cooperating with a number of businesses to

raise funds for Haiti disaster relief.

Bank of America and Walgreen’s are two of the many companies working with the American Red Cross.

Walgreen’s, for example has donated money, as well as lent their support and assistance in relief efforts in a number of ways.

“Walgreen’s has donated six semi-trailers worth of bottled water, medical supplies, hygiene products and non-perishable foods through the University of Miami Global Institute for Community Health and Development,” said Robert Eifinger, an employee of the Walgreen’s Illinois media relation department. “In addition, $100,000 has been donated to the American Red Cross and employee donations of $50,000 were also matched by the company.”

In addition to the company and employee donations through Walgreen’s, customers have participated through their store registers.

“Our customers’ compassion

and generosity are being felt at each of our store registers across the country,” Walgreen’s President and Chief Executive Officer Greg Wasson said. “Walgreen’s stores have collected more than $1 million for the American Red Cross Haiti Relief and Development Fund.”

As donations are coming into Haiti from all over the world, there is a sense of gratification from others as to the multitude of support being offered.

“It is encouraging to see so many people coming forward to assist Haiti. Being the poor country that they are and from the way they have suffered through this disaster, (Haiti) will require a tremendous amount of resources to get back to normal,” CCC President McKinley Williams said. “It is very good to see the level of support from countries all over the world.”

Looking at Haiti relief efforts close to home, CCC is making its own plans.

“We are trying to coordinate

efforts through a few groups on campus and we are very proud that our students and the African American Staff Association are interested in stepping up to assist in relief efforts,” Williams said.

The Associated Students Union, with Community and Educational Partnership Liaison Michele Jackson and Wade, have been given the charge to establish relief efforts on behalf of CCC. “I believe the group is excited to be helpful. It gives others motivation — they are pretty excited about this project,” Wade said. “The African American Staff Association would like to work with students and (Middle College High School) to come up with relief efforts for Haiti. We are the support people and whatever they decide — whether it is money, clothing, food, hygiene items — we will be behind them.”

Contact Cassandra Juniel at cjuniel.advocate@gmail.com.

College courses open off campus Center offers more classes in Hercules

By Asia Camagong ASSOCIATE EDITOR

For students struggling to deal with the obstacle of coming to the Contra Costa College campus, the beginning of the spring semester is offering the opportunity for school to come closer to them.

With the intent to alleviate the troubles of commuting to the college, the city of Hercules and CCC introduced a new off-campus learning center on Jan. 26 for students seeking more chances to earn college cred-

it courses for the 2010 calendar year.

“This is our way of making our education series more accountable and constant,” CCC President McKinley Williams said.

Taking into account the success of the El Cerrito offcampus center that opened last spring semester, the college looks to accommodate residents in the Hercules area with a convenient learning space, Outreach Coordinator Mercy Pono said.

“For those students who have some problems getting to campus, (the advantage is) it’s easier to take a class that’s down the street from their home,” she said.

After nearly a year of planning, city and college officials agreed to provide course sections for English ADVERTISEMENT

1A, Spanish 110, Math 164 and Speech 120 held during the evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays from times ranging from 6 until 10 p.m.

The courses, conducted in the Hercules Public Library and adjacent Eden Senior Housing buildings, are taught by CCC instructors, giving students the same quality education as though they were on campus, Pono said.

Within the first week, many of the classes were full, she said.

In addition to meeting student needs by satisfying general education requirements, the courses also appeal to community interest, Pono said.

With the successful opening of the off-campus center, she said plans to continue

for next year have not yet been set, but may be in the works depending on the collaborative efforts between Hercules city officials and the college.

“We haven’t started talking about next year, but I would not be surprised if it continued,” Pono said.

Though negotiations between Hercules and CCC began at the beginning of last year, the cutback in the college budget threatened the existence of the center.

The Hercules mayor and the city council, however, made the decision to fund the services, agreeing to spend $4,000 per class to cover the salaries of the CCC instructors as well as providing the educational facilities, Hercules City Manager Nelson Oliva said.

“It’s wonderful to know that the leaders of the city of Hercules value education and are providing their residents an opportunity to take classes in their own backyard,” Pono said.

Utilizing the Hercules facilities, she said students are taught in classrooms built with new computers and Internet access, providing better quality for more learning.

“It’s a beautiful location and would be a great location for (residents),” she said.

In addition to making education more accessible to students, Oliva said establishing a satellite location will familiarize community members with the college and “enhance education opportunities.”

“What really promptADVERTISEMENT

7

Outreach The off-campus Hercules center offers students the chance to take college credit courses for the spring semester. The classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in the Hercules Public Library and Eden Senior Housing buildings. ed us is that (the Hercules Center) would be a benefit to the community and to the college so that the college expands its outreach and service delivery,” he said.

Contact Asia Camagong at acamagong. advocate@gmail.com.

8 THE ADVOCATE

SPORTS

l WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3, 2010

Comet defense contains Mustangs

her presence known, attacking the post and racking up three blocks in the first half.

CCC maintained its aggressive offense with the combination of guard Kenyanna “K.K.” Martin and Hunt scoring on several jump shots, attacking the basket and getting to the foul line.

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR Defensively, the squad did not allow LMC to take the lead and Solid defense, aggressive offense contained its best perimeter shooter, and overall teamwork proved to be Antonette Capili, who went 1-4 in 3the ingredients for a victory, as the point attempts in the first half. women’s basketball team defeated The Comets led the Mustangs at Los Medanos College at home in a halftime 33-27 with Hunt and Martin 72-60 result Friday. combining for 27 of their 33 points.

The Comets (15-8 overall, 7-4 in “K.K. was aggressive on offense the Bay Valley Conference) used its and Zenaia Hunt is doing it all for the aggressive defense to frustrate the team,” assistant coach Mike Hughes Mustangs (9-12 overall, 4-6 in the said. “(Hunt) sets an aggressive tone BVC), causing them for the team.” to create several turnCCC continued its overs that Contra Costa intensity on both ends ScoreBoard College capitalized on. of the ball in the secComets 72 “We already beat ond half, as it limited them once (this year) the LMC offense and Mustangs 60 so our game plan was was able to get to the to try and take them free throw line.

Next game: out of their comThe Comets were Friday at Laney, fort zone and disrupt able to get to the free 7 p.m. them,” Comet coach throw line 22 times Paul DeBolt said. “We compared to LMC’s did a good job defennine. sively, and this was a The Comets took the game in a game we needed to win”.

72-60 finish, with Martin leading all CCC goes on the road and looks scorers with 29 points. for a third consecutive win against This season so far, CCC is 3-2 conference leader Laney College when playing at home.

(18-5 overall, 10-1 in the BVC) “We did a good job this game, Friday at 7 p.m. in Oakland. and we all played our roles,” guard The beginning of the first half Savannah Stewart said. “Hopefully opened pretty slow for the Comets as we can keep up the intensity, stick to the Mustangs struck the scoreboard the coaches’ game plan and continue first scoring on two consecutive bas- to play hard.” kets.

“We look to K.K. for offense and CCC answered back, however, defensively we do our part,” forward with an intense half court trapping Shanyla Love said. “Zenaia Hunt is defensive scheme, frustrating LMC our best defensive player.” and creating several steals that led CCC looks toward teamwork and to scoring on offensive possessions, players accepting their individual including three 3-pointers from roles on the team to carry it throughguard Zenaia Hunt. out the remainder of the season and “I didn’t really have an offensive into the playoffs. game plan going into the game,” “We have four losses in our conHunt said. “I just allowed my defense ference, but we still have a good to set the tone for my offense.” chance to make the playoffs,” The Mustangs continued to stay DeBolt said. “We’re just going to within reach of the Comets, scor- take games one at a time.” ing on 3-point shots from guards Khyiera Slone and Stephanie Daily.

Contact Malcolm Lastra at Center Keyontee White also made mlastra.advocate@gmail.com.

Chemistry proves strong in triumph, squad wins 72-60

Squad trips against LMC

Taking it to the rim — Comet guard Michael Brown attempts a shot while being closely guarded against Los Medanos College.

Contra Costa College was unable to keep up and took a home loss Friday 7559.

CCC unable to withstand rough gallop

ERIK VERDUZCO/ THE ADVOCATE

Box scores Women’s basketball (Jan. 29)

Three-point goals Los Medanos — Murray 4, Campbell 2, James 2. Contra Costa — LeGree 2, Kinney 2, Ward 1, Hamilton 1.

Fouled out Los Medanos — none. Contra Costa — none.

Contra Costa College (72) Hunt 7-14 2-7 20, Bridges 2-5 0-2 4, Martin 11-20 7-9 29, Aquino 2-7 2-2 8, Walker 1-3 1-2 3, Love 0-0 0-0 0, Gipson 0-1 0-0 0, Stewart 3-4 0-0 6, Sanders 0-1 0-0 0, Montgomery 0-2 0-0 0, Williams 1-1 0-0 2, Farinas 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 27-58 12-22 76.

Schedule

Three-point goals Los Medanos — Daily 2, Slone 2, Capili 2, Jackson 1.

Contra Costa — Hunt 4, Aquino 2.

Fouled out Los Medanos — Slone. Contra Costa — None.

Rebounds Los Medanos 11 (White 7), Contra Costa 13 (Martin 8).

Men’s basketball (Jan. 29) Los Medanos College (75) Simpson 6-9 1-3 13, Campbell 2-2 1-3 11, Murray 4-12 3-6 23, Hanspard 2-4 2-2 6, Douglas 5-6 2-4 12, Alamillo 2-3 00 4, Richardson 0-0 0-0 0, Evans 0-0 0-0 0, James 0-0 0-0 6, Brown 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 21-37 9-18 75.

forward Addonnis Leacock said. “We (have) to keep our heads up.”

Leacock was the team’s top scorer of the game with 13 points.

CCC looks to bounce back from the defeat in

By Dariush Azmoudeh SPORTS EDITOR their upcoming away game against College of Alameda The Comet men’s bas- (5-15 overall, 3-8 in the ketball team was unable to BVC) Friday at 7 p.m. When keep up with Los Medanos the Comets last faced the College on Friday, losing 75- Cougars, the Comets won 59 at home.

80-74 at home. Throughout Contra the first half, Costa College the Mustangs (10-12 overwere easily ScoreBoard all, 5-6 in the able to drive Mustangs 75 Bay Valley into the paint Conference) and either get Comets 59 fought hard in an easy shot or the first half, draw a foul.

Next game: trailing by nine The Comet Friday at at halftime, but offense found Alameda, LMC (16-6 some trouble, 7 p.m. overall, 9-1 in as the LMC the BVC) gave defense held a hard push in the team mainthe second half to throw the ly outside the 3-point line.

Comets off rhythm and seal CCC scored six 3-pointers in their fate. the game.

“We came out strong “We were outmanned. at first, but when we went (The Mustangs) shot the ball down, we gave up,” Comet well, and they had a lot of

6, Evdokimov 0-1 0-0 0, Mouton 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 17-32 7-11 59.

Los Medanos College (60) Markiewith 0-0 0-0 0, Jackson 1-2 0-0 3, Daily 3-8 1-2 9, Zerbini 0-0 0-0 0, Slone 4-8 0-0 10, Washington 4-8 0-0 8, Capili 4-14 5-5 15, Parra 2-3 0-0 4, White 5-12 1-2 11, Montecinos 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 23-56 7-9 60.

Contra Costa College (59) LeGree 1-5 0-0 8, Ward 0-1 0-0 3, Cash 1-2 0-0 2, Mo. Brown 3-4 0-1 6, Hamilton 2-3 6-8 13, Mi. Brown 2-4 0-0 4, Leacock 6-8 1-2 13, McCall 2-2 0-0 4, Kinney 0-1 0-0

ERIK VERDUZCO / THE ADVOCATE

Squeezing through the lane — Contra Costa College guard Kenyanna “K.K.” Martin leaps over the Los Medanos College defense for a shot at the hoop in the Gymnasium Friday. The Comets offense was able to claim the 72-60 home victory over the Mustangs.

Rebounds Los Medanos 22 (Douglas 15), Contra Costa 19 (Mi.Brown 4, Mo.Brown 4).

Bay Valley Conference Laney College Solano Community College Merritt College Contra Costa College Mendocino College Los Medanos College College of Marin Yuba College Napa Valley College

W 10 10 7 7 5 4 3 2 0

L 1 1 3 4 6 6 8 9 10

Overall W L 18 5 18 5 9 10 15 8 5 14 9 12 7 12 3 17 2 16

W 10 9 6 6 5 5 3 2 2

L 1 1 4 5 6 6 8 8 9

Overall W L 19 4 16 6 11 10 9 11 10 12 8 12 5 15 6 16 2 18

W 10 10 7 7 5 4 3 2 0

L 1 1 3 4 6 6 8 9 10

Overall W L 18 5 18 5 9 10 15 8 5 14 9 12 7 12 3 16 2 16

Men’s basketball Women’s basketball at Laney, Friday 7 p.m. vs. Mendocino, Tuesday 5:30 p.m. at Merritt, Feb. 11 5:30 p.m. vs. Napa, Feb. 17 5:30 p.m. vs. Yuba, Feb. 19 5:30 p.m.

Men’s basketball at Alameda, Friday 7 p.m. vs. Mendocino, Tuesday 7:30 p.m. at Merritt, Feb. 11 7:30 p.m. vs. Napa, Feb. 17 7:30 p.m. vs. Yuba, Feb. 19 7:30 p.m.

Baseball vs. American River, today 2 p.m. vs. Cañada, Friday 2 p.m. at Cañada, Tuesday 2 p.m. at Santa Rosa, Feb. 10 2 p.m. vs. Mission, Feb. 19 2 p.m. at Mission, Feb. 20 11 a.m. (Double Header) vs. Diablo Valley, Feb. 23 2 p.m. vs. Hartnell, Feb. 24 2 p.m. vs. Monterey, Feb. 26 2 p.m. at Hartnell, Feb. 27 1 p.m.

Bay Valley Conference Yuba College Los Medanos College Napa Valley College Solano Community College Contra Costa College Mendocino College College of Alameda Merritt College College of Marin

Women’s basketball

Bay Valley Conference Laney College Solano Community College Merritt College Contra Costa College Mendocino College Los Medanos College College of Marin Yuba College Napa Valley College

in an attempt to run out the clock.

“Our energy was down.

We played hard, but they were a good team. When (one) person is down, everyone is down,” Comet forward Thomas McCall said. “But we (have) to do what our coach tells us. That is, it’s in the past. We can’t change it, we should move forward.”

Mustang guard Tyree Murray was another player that the Comets had trouble containing, as he had 23 points and went 4-7 from 3point range.

This loss is the second in a row for the Comets and they currently sit in fifth place in the BVC. Johnson said the Comets need more consistency, more effort and strong leadership from someone on the team and not only when the team is doing well.

“We need someone to give us energy and a little spark,” he said.

Contact Dariush Azmoudeh at dazmoudeh. advocate@gmail.com.

Game of the Week

Standings Men’s soccer

second chance opportunities,” coach Miguel Johnson said. “I’m proud of our effort. We fought through some mental breakdowns.”

The biggest challenge for the Comets was dealing with Mustang center Corey Douglas, who proved to be an obstacle for CCC on both ends. Douglas had four blocks, 12 points and 15 rebounds, six of which were on the offensive side of the ball.

“We weren’t aggressive, we didn’t attack them like our coach told us to,” Comet guard Justin Hamilton said.

“We settled for a lot of jumpers.”

He also said that the team needed to play more defense and improve on its defensive rebounding.

Down by a score of 3728, the Comets entered the second half refreshed and ready to cut down the deficit, but 10 minutes into the half, CCC found itself behind 5937.

With five minutes left in the game, the Mustangs began to slow down the pace

Baseball Contra Costa College VS.

Cañada College When: Friday, 2 p.m.

Where: Baseball field Records: CCC, 0-0 overall.

Contra Costa College looks to open its baseball season with a victory over Cañada College in their second game. This week is the opening week for Comets baseball. They open today against American River College and take on Cañada College at the end of the week. CCC will try to start off fresh after last year’s rough season in which its record was 6-31 overall and 4-23 in the Bay Valley Conference. The Colts come off a strong 2009 season where they achieved a record of 29-12.

— Dariush Azmoudeh