The Advocate - March 2, 2011

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

Lunar year celebrated

San Francisco hosts Chinese New Year Parade

spotlight ◆ page 9

Legacy Dean retires after 25 years

CMYK

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

CMYK

gmorin.advocate@gmail.com

in brief

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

2 THE ADVOCATE Quotable “Media which are not free to criticize government, or that are not representative of the broad spectrum of society, are inherently limited in their capacity to support and bolster democracy.”

Cyril Ramaphosa South African newspaper executive 1997 Sam Attal editor-in-chief Dariush Azmoudeh associate editor Lamar James associate editor Cassidy Gooding opinion editor Malcolm Lastra sports editor Alexandra Waite news editor George Morin photo editor Jermaine Harrison circulation manager Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Christopher Clausen April Halog Hilberth Ibarra Jazmaine Mitchell Iris Jett Horace Jordan Angelina Rucobo Janit Saechao Jesslyn Sherrod Parris Washington Rodney Woodson Staff photographers Hanan Ayyad Qing Huang Saleene Jones Adam Oliver Yao Saetern Jesse Sutherland Christian Urrutia Roman Young Staff illustrators Jared Amdahl Faythe Del Rosario 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, 2010 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, MARCH 2, 2011

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011 VOL. 96, NO. 14 ●

Editorial Voices needed

Students, employees must fight higher fees

W

ith the finalization of Gov. Jerry Brown’s current budget proposal speeding toward California, higher education is facing a $1.4 billion cut. Community colleges will feel a $400 million burn.

If the tax extension Brown is requesting on sales taxes, income taxes and vehicle licensing fees is not put on the ballot for the special election in June, or if the extension simply does not pass, students enrolled in community colleges up and down the state will begin to be charged $66 per unit for tuition.

If Brown’s tax extension does pass, tuition will still rise, but only to $36 per unit.

As students, our biggest enemy right now is our apathy to tuition hikes and fee increases.

Sixty-six dollars per unit, which translates to an approximate 154 percent increase, means that to be a full time student taking 12 units, one will be paying $792 a semester instead of the current $312 tuition cost. If a student wants to meet the 60-unit transfer requirement in two years by taking exactly 15 units each semester, each term will cost approximately $1,000 in tuition alone.

Confronted with these facts, the general reaction from many students seems to be a disgruntled groan and sigh instead of the outrage and offense that would be more appropriate.

In this troubled economy, raising taxes usually raises the hackles of taxpayers even higher. But if such an expense is not spread across the entire state, a giant load will be plopped onto the shoulders of community college students already grappling with money troubles. These are the same students who need an education to help shape a stronger workforce and economy in a time when California needs just that.

Academic Senate President Richard Akers spoke simply when he said that if the extensions don’t pass, “It’ll keep the poor out of college.”

“We (CCC) are dealing with a struggling economic demographic,” Dr. Akers said. The local community and other areas made up of ethnic minority groups will be hit hardest by a fee increase of this magnitude.

We as students need to snap out of our content stupor and start working to change the situation.

Faculty need to force those in their classes to start facing reality and attempting to do something to better it.

Whether it is writing letters to legislators to get the tax extension on the ballot or participating in the “March in March” protest on March 14 in Sacramento students need to take action.

Unless of course there is a horde of students who enjoy working two jobs while juggling bills just to pay for their spot in a classroom and a place to live.

FAYTHE DEL ROSARIO / THE ADVOCATE

■ Relationships

Gold-digging proves timeless, admirable

E

ver since I was a little girl, my mother always told me to marry first for money and second for love.

Now that I’m older and see that she did neither, I know she was kidding.

However, the idea has remained in the back of my mind as a good one.

In high school, I was voted “Mostly Likely to Marry a Millionaire,” and I used to dream up grand schemes to place myself in the perfect position to meet and persuade a wealthy man into making me his wife.

I’m sure many readers are rolling their eyes at me after that statement, but I really don’t see any problem with being a gold digger.

In earlier times, young girls had whole teams of people who taught them how to be “marriage material,” just so they could land a man with a nobler name or bigger estate than their family.

They squeezed themselves into corsets, painted bird droppings on their faces, took classes in manners and became intellectuals just for the sake of attracting and carrying on witty banter with gentleman suitors.

“Gold digging,” or the practice of finding interest only in a man’s material assets and trying to entrap him into marrying you in order to obtain them, is something that has been going on for centuries. So I’ve always found it silly and confusing that women hear so much static for it today.

A few months ago, however, I learned that I’m not as ruthless as other gold dig-

On the other, though, I asked myself if I was really so shallow as to let physical attraction get in the way of something that could be so fun.

On the third hand that came out of nowhere, I wongers out there. dered if I was really such One Tuesday night dura gold digger that I was ing the summer of 2010, going to look past the lack Jonah Hill, an actor best of chemistry just because of remembered for his roles money. in “Superbad” and I wrestled with “Get Him to the the ordeal for awhile In the end, Greek,” gave me his before deciding that phone number and I’m really not that those asked me to call hungry for a sugar him. Completely daddy. I stopped texwomen bewildered, I stuck ting him and I’m sure the little note he had he’s over it. shyly handed me in In the end, those out there a drawer and didn’t women out there look at it for weeks. suckering suckering rich guys Until the gold diginto handing over ger inside me reared cash should be rich guys their her greedy head, of applauded. course.

It’s hard work into I texted him and getting someone to marry you, not to sparked a monthmention how stresslong correspondence handing ful divorces can be. during which he told Especially if you’re me he wanted to over not attracted to the take me on shopping man whose bank sprees and romantic cash account you’ve set vacations to Palm your sights on.

Springs or Hawaii. should be As for me, my He even wanted mother’s words are to throw me a crazy 21st birthday party applauded. still echoing in some recess of my brain. in Los Angeles, all in I’m going to be optimistic, return for a few picture mesthough, and hope that when sages of myself.

I’ve become rich myself, At this point, the angel I’ll marry for both love and on my shoulder stopped me money all at once. short.

Caught in a moral dilemCassidy Gooding is ma, I weighed my options. the opinion editor of The On the one hand, I wasn’t attracted to the man in ques- Advocate. Contact her at cgooding.advocate@gmail. tion, so I wanted to just tell com. him no and forget it.

cassidygooding

CampusComment

What do you think of a potential $40 per unit tuition increase?

“That sucks. They should take into consideration the area, the people. Some people can barely afford it.”

“Well, if it helps the recession, it has to be done. We can’t expect everything to be the same price. Maybe a $20 increase, not $40.”

Hector Ortiz film

“That will be bad because I don’t get financial aid. All the money will come out of pocket.”

Jaime Sahagun

Jerame McElroy culinary arts

radiology

“(The proposal) is absolutely ridiculous. We (Richmond community members) don’t make that much money as it is. Registration will go down.”

Tito Cano culinary arts

FAYTHE DEL ROSARIO & JESSE SUTHERLAND / THE ADVOCATE

“It’s still not that bad.

A bunch of people are getting financial aid anyway.”

“I think even though there is a budget deficit, it kind of sucks.

But, somehow we have to make the money.”

Herrick Hernandez nursing

Selena Hao nursing

FORUM ■ homelessness

faythedelrosario

Online game teaches life’s hardships

A

website called www. playspent.org was recently created for the Urban Ministries of Durham.

It is an Adobe Flash game that informs the player of the hardships that many Americans are facing due to a troubled economy.

The game starts off telling the player that UMD helps 6,000 people every year. It is an organization in North Carolina that helps the homeless and those who are risk of homelessness.

It asks players to prove that they do not need help and to take a challenge. The game continues on and tells them to imagine that they are one of the 14 million people who are unemployed, that they lost their home and all they have left is a mere $1,000.

A fellow colleague of mine said with much confidence that he lasted this long without $1,000 and that it is not difficult at all. Funny thing though, he did not reflect upon the fact that he doesn’t pay rent, gas, unexpected emergency expenses or any of the bills in his household.

It would be easy for anyone who has parents taking care of financial business.

Homelessness has risen in recent years. It is becoming so bad that in 2010, San Francisco voted for Proposition L, which does not allow sitting and lying down on public sidewalks between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

While it is nice that a simple web-browser game informs people about this epidemic, people should not have disregarded the idea that it can happen to them in the first place.

Not everyone who becomes homeless is a crazy crack-head begging for spare change. Many of us scoff, avoid and rudely talk about homeless people; we often do not remember that these people once had normal lives and jobs like the rest of us.

The few who do realize this sometimes act overly sympathetic and may cause someone homeless to feel anger and embarrassment, because the only thing he or she has left is his or her pride and would not want to ask for help in the first place.

While the game can take a few minutes to play, some people may still not grasp the idea that it can be real.

Personally, when I played the game, I realized that I also took what I had for granted sometimes.

It is bizarre that I felt some realization from this, and I am ashamed for it because I personally know how it is to not have a home, and see my parents face the consequences of having no money and the inability to pay bills monthly.

I have been homeless on three different occasions while growing up, and it is a terrible predicament.

While some people have it easier than others, whether it is by a small margin or because a wealthy father backs them, people should look beyond their money and see that someday it might not be there.

It is good that this game enlightens some about real issues, but hopefully the main message is that sometimes, life is really hard and it gets cold with limited supplies.

Faythe Del Rosario is a staff illustrator for The Advocate. Contact her at frosario.advocate@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

3

■ Parenting

O

Early drinks avoid alcoholism

ut of American teenagers aged 12 to 14 who report drinking alcohol, nearly 30 percent were given the booze by their parents or other adult relatives, according to new statistics released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

This seemingly high percentage may come off as negative to many Americans, but allowing teenagers to drink in moderation under parental supervision is a step in the right direction.

Allowing children to consume alcohol under their supervision does not mean parents should provide it in large amounts.

The importance of parents implementing a plan to allow their children to drink small amounts of alcohol at a young age is grounded in the idea that the child will begin to not see it as a forbidden act punishable by their parents, and will be less likely to fantasize about doing it behind their backs.

When parents give off the

problems when they begin drinking early, Hyde is wrong in assuming that early drinkers are more prone to develop such problems.

Most alcohol laws in the United States were enacted before the country began trying to construct a zero-tolerimpression that even though ance and total-abstinence culture for teenagers, which drinking can result in bad didn’t begin until the 90s. consequences if done in In the 80s, underage excess, it is ultimately just drinking rose and prevenanother activity, then perhaps teenagers would not put tion efforts directed toward as much effort into acquiring children focused on school alcohol because it would not programs that taught the dangers of drinking. Despite seem as rebellious. the good intentions of the However, along with the educational programs, they recently published statistics failed to make a difference. taken from the National Keeping children and Household Surveys on Drug teenagers ignorant about Use and Health came a alcohol, and going to such statement from SAMHSA large measures to prevent administrator Pamela Hyde who said, “People who begin them from having it in their possession, only perpetuates drinking alcohol before the age of 15 are six times more their desire to access and likely than those who start at abuse it.

In a 2004 study conducted age 21 and older to develop by the National Institute of alcohol problems.”

Health that examined data While there is a possibilfrom more than 6,000 people ity of some young people in the U.S., teens who drank developing alcohol-related

alexandrawaite

with their parents were half as likely to have consumed alcohol in the previous month and one-third less likely to binge drink, compared to teens who drank without parental approval.

Research has also shown that countries such as Italy, Spain and France, which view drinking alcohol as a family-oriented activity, have fewer problems with teen binge drinking and adult alcoholism. On the other hand, countries like the United Kingdom and Ireland, which either demonize alcohol or glorify it, have the same problems as the U.S. with teenagers abusing it.

The risk of teenagers harming themselves while exploring the effects of alcohol can vastly decrease if parents simply introduce it early in moderation and do their best to minimize society’s fixation with it.

Alexandra Waite is the news editor of The Advocate.

Contact her at awaite. advocate@gmail.com.

Southpaw pride Left-handed population faces discrimination

By Adam Oliver STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

aoliver.advocate@gmail.com

A

constant reminder of just how hazardous I can be to myself, and one of the great demises of my social and physical welfare, is my hapless clumsiness.

I spill stuff, break things and injure myself with remarkable frequency, and there’s very little I can realistically do about it.

But I like to think of it, at least partially, as a consequence of the condition of my breed.

Subordinated by modern society, the lefthander has no choice but to, however begrudgingly, adapt to the right man’s world.

We sit in desks, drive cars, use tools and practically everything designed intentionally for the righthanded and suffer the aggravating consequences.

Attempting to write without smearing the ink beyond recognition or use power tools without losing a limb present just a couple of the disadvantages even we lefties take for granted.

And even though past studies suggesting that the left-handed die nearly 10 years sooner are now seen as exaggerations, we are still more prone to accident and consequent death.

But much to our chagrin, there exist very few rational solutions to the left-hander’s dilemma.

Should we flaunt our defiance by cleaning out the local southpaw

store, striking for proper work equipment or sporting a lefty foam finger on Aug. 13, National Lefthander’s Day? Doing that would just leave me broke and feeling foolish.

Moreover, there will always be products and companies that cannot or will not cater to the left-handed minority. So what’s a self-aware southpaw to do?

Though difficult, we must strive to embrace our imposed ambidexterity while not forgetting the evolutionary significance of our kind.

In a time when handedness was less a functional issue than a spiritual one, left-handers still faced a genetic predisposition to lower life expectancy and a gaggle of psychological disorders.

And such conditions, coupled with the incessant social stigma of lefthandedness, would logically imply that lefties should have found their way out of the gene pool long ago.

Yet, archaeological evidence suggests that lefties have remained a roughly stable population for thousands of years and throughout all cultures.

Luckily for us, our abnormality happens also to be our salvation.

Within the seclusion of the Amazon rain forest exists an indigenous tribe dominated by warfare and plunder.

In contrast to the U.S. national homicide rate of roughly 0.06 deaths per 1,000 inhabitants per year, the Yanomamo tribe has a homicide rate of four per 1,000 residents, nearly seven times greater.

Entrenched in a near constant state of warfare with neighboring tribes, the Yanomamo culture praises excellence in battle and the people even arrange

marriages based on the performance of their respective ancestral warriors.

The Yanomamo intentionally bred warriors, and in effect, lefties too.

Not so coincidentally, the Yanomamo possess just over double the global average population of lefthanders, roughly 23 percent of their population.

In Yanomamo society, the tactical advantages of attacking from the unexpected left propelled the southpaw population into evolutionary dominance.

Used to fighting their own kind, right-handers have difficulty interpreting the direction of the movements and actions of the southpaw, but not vice versa.

And regardless of the flagrant societal bias seen today, lefthanders retain this advantage in battle, boxing, tennis and most other activities involving direct confrontation.

Additionally, our left-handedness means we more frequently employ the right hemisphere of our brains, responsible for intuitive, creative and deductive — or general to specific — thinking.

This right brain dominance allows lefties to excel in areas that benefit from the ability to see holistically and to envision the final product and work backward to a solution.

It’s no wonder five of the last seven U.S. presidents, Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton and countless brilliant artists all shared this holistic perspective, as well as, of course, the klutziness and combat advantage.

And though we have our downfalls, I think I speak for the majority of my kind when I say this: I’d sooner chop off my right arm than convert and abandon my southpaw roots.

JARED AMDAHL / THE ADVOCATE

4 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011

accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

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Newsline ■ DRAMA

‘Cinderella’ performed The drama department will present the play “Cinderella” today, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the Knox Center at 8 p.m. A matinee performance is scheduled for Sunday at 4 p.m.

Admission for the general public is $15 and $10 for students and seniors. Admission for children under 10 years old is $5.

■ HONOR

Women’s history celebrated Contra Costa College and the West Contra Costa Branch of the American Association of University Women will host the 11th Annual National Women’s History Month Celebration on March 24 at 7 p.m. in the Knox Center.

The event will acknowledge women throughout the service area for their community contributions and advocacy.

■ PERFORMANCE

Speech, drama to be showcased The speech and drama departments will present the annual “Speech & Drama Night” on April 7 in the Knox Center at 7 p.m.

For more information, contact speech department Chairwoman Connie Anderson at 510-235-7800, ext. 4533.

■ GOSPEL

Choir to perform concert in Knox The Contra Costa College Gospel Choir will perform a concert on April 9 in the Knox Center at 7 p.m. The choir will render traditional gospel and non-traditional contemporary gospel under the direction of Denise Hunter and is open to the public.

For more information, contact the music department at 510-2357800, ext. 4276.

CrimeWatch Monday, Feb. 14: A female non-student was assaulted by two unknown females at the bus stop. The victim received minor injuries and no prosecution was desired.

CAMPUS BEAT

District seeks to fill void Applications begin for Ward 5 position

By Lamar James ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ljames.advocate@gmail.com

The Governing Board is accepting applications from the public to fill the seat of recently deceased member Jess Reyes.

Reyes, who passed away Jan. 31 after being struck with pneumonia, served on the Governing Board representing Ward 5 which serves Los Medanos College, and the cities of Antioch, Pittsburg, Oakley, Brentwood, Bay Point, Bethel Island and Knightsen.

“We hope whoever applies has knowledge of the area,” Ward 3 Trustee Sheila Grilli said. Grilli said there was a special meeting held Feb. 17, and the members of the Governing Board chose to try and fill the vacancy as soon as possible.

The Governing Board had two options in filling the seat of Reyes.

One option was to hold a special elec-

tion that would have cost $380,000, or a provisional appointment where applicants will be reviewed by two Governing Board members and chosen based on their qualifications.

She said the kind of person that they are looking for is “someone who has a sense of the area and Los Medanos College, someone who may have had a background in education and someone who is willing to learn.”

She said the Governing Board members chose to go with the provisional appointment because it was less costly in a time when money is scarce. She said the election process may have been lengthy and pricey, so they chose the provisional appointment.

Ward 1 Trustee John Márquez said it was a pleasure serving with Reyes.

Márquez said Reyes was actively involved in meetings and engaged in topics relating to the district.

“In my experience in filling a vacancy you are looking for someone to get the job done,” he said.

Márquez also said the person who is chosen for this position should be willing to jump right in and be willing to learn new things fast.

Correction In the article “Zumba fever grips class on campus” on the front page of the Feb. 16 issue, there is one correction.

It states the Zumba class is “on a trial and if enough people get interested, it might continue as a credited class.”

The class will never be credited.

It is a fee based offering.

The Advocate regrets the error.

Reyes The position of Ward 5 trustee has been vacant since Jess Reyes died of pneumonia on Jan. 31.

The district is currently taking applications from the public to fill the position on the Governing Board.

Tuition | Fees may see $40 hike Bond ■ FROM: Page 1

said if California voters turn down tax extensions on the June special election ballot, the approximately 154 percent fee increase to $66 a unit will deny many lower income communities and ethnic minorities from attending college.

“If you look at the populations that will be mostly affected by it, they will be of color,” Williams said. “It demeans the population in our area that is struggling with poverty and other issues. It may be racist.”

Lawmakers may also deny the tax extensions a spot on the ballot or simply not allow the special election to happen at all, in which case Brown has proposed doubling the state’s cuts to $25 billion, Boilard said.

To help keep cuts at a minimum, Brown wants to offer voters a chance to extend the current rates for sales and income taxes and the state vehicle license fee, all which are due to expire in 2012.

Williams said the dramatic fee increase proposal comes at a time when higher education is at a high demand due to the worsening economy.

“We’re trying to solve our budget problem by making it more difficult for our students to attend college,” he said. “That will undoubtedly cause students to enroll in (fewer) classes or not enroll in classes at all.”

Some students say that the proposal presents problems with maintaining a strong society and a thriving workforce.

“How are we going to advance in life?” 31-year-old nursing student Denise Guzman asked. “Even the middle class can’t afford $66 a unit.”

Guzman, who is unemployed and depends on her husband’s salary to pay for living expenses and her tuition, said she can hardly pay everything off.

“A lot of the time I have to skip

a bill to pay for school,” she said. “I don’t think that’s right.”

Madison said if tuition fees go up, students will have to reconsider whether education is a high priority.

“It’s going to become a matter of if you have the money or if you don’t,” Madison said. “It’s about survival.”

Communications student Chelsea Brown said she already faces hardships getting through school and paying rent, utilities and various other bills even though she works multiple jobs.

“It’s hard to manage three parttime jobs and five classes,” Brown said.

Although Brown, 26, said she would not completely drop out of school, she would be forced to rebuild her educational plan and delay her goals. “(Tuition increases are) going to affect the number of classes I take,” Brown said. “It’s a factor for when I can transfer.”

Even younger students who are listed as dependants under their parents say that higher tuition fees would force them to figure out ways to spend less or bring in more income.

“I would probably have to get another job and take (fewer) classes,” 20-year-old nursing student Aileen Martinez said. Martinez said she not only pays her own tuition costs, but she also helps her parents pay for groceries and other bills.

District Vice Chancellor of Administration Services Kindred Murillo said there is some hope to keep the cost of education low. If the majority of Californians vote in favor of the tax extension, community college students will most likely see a smaller tuition increase from $26 to $36 per unit.

However, in 2009, Proposition 1A presented a similar offer to Californians but was turned down by 65 percent of voters.

“As a community college system, we’ve been supporting a small fee increase over the years so it doesn’t hit students so hard,” Murillo said. “The idea is that if we raise fees, we don’t have to reduce as much.”

However, college Vice President Carol Maga said there is no way to predict what amount students will have to pay for tuition in the fall semester.

“It’s very uncertain; every time we turn around, there’s a new (LAO) report,” Maga said. “Who knows what’s ever going to happen?”

College employees and students both agree that if they want to prevent such increases and cuts to education, they must organize and protest across the state.

“If you are in a position where you are continuing to get beat up, you either get up and leave or you start to fight back,” Williams said.

“If you’re willing to be docile, your circumstances will be controlled by others. If students are going to make a difference on how these policies are thrust down upon them, they need to get politically active.”

Associated Students Union President Joseph Camacho said students need to band together and express their feelings about fee hikes to state officials.

“It takes a whole movement,” Camacho said. “Students don’t realize the power that one voice has and the power that many voices have.”

Camacho urges community college students to work alongside students from the University of California and California State University systems whose institutions face a $500 million budget cut each.

The ASU is working with student advocacy groups in the state to urge students to attend the “March in March” protest on March 14 at the Capitol in Sacramento.

Padilla | Statue project funded

Tuesday, Feb. 15: A student refused to leave class for being loud and disruptive. The student left when police arrived.

■ FROM: Page 1 man to go to for anything you needed.”

Wednesday, Feb. 16: Donations for the Padilla sculpture began on All A student was arrested for College Day, held at the college on Aug. 12, 2010, domestic violence when he slapped Hanson said. his wife and made threats with After the fund opened, the committee, comprised of a hammer in the Early Learning Dr. Akers, Clow, interim Natural, Social and Applied Center.

Science Dean Leverett Smith, and Student Services and Instructional Support Coordinator Mercy Pono Thursday, Feb. 17: originally hoped to collect the necessary funds by the A student was contacted end of the fall semester. for shoplifitng a book at the “We’re proud of pulling it all together. This project Bookstore. was the combination of classified faculty, staff and volunteers. A lot of people came together to get this Monday, Feb. 21: up together and running,” Akers said.

A student reported herself and The statue and plaque will be formed of bronze, her husband being harassed by her which according to Akers is the traditional medium husband’s former girlfriend.

— Alexandra Waite

He said the new Governing Board member will hold office until the next scheduled election on Nov. 6. If the new member would like to keep the seat, he or she must run for re-election.

The board that will review the applicants was appointed by the Governing Board and will be made up of Ward 2 Trustee Tomi Van de Brooke and Grilli.

Grilli said the two board members will review the applicants and choose whom they think is best qualified.

She said the board will meet on March 7 to review the applicants and by March 9 a new Governing Board member will be selected.

“This is a very concise process and after two days of reviewing, we will have a new board member,” Grilli said.

“The new member will sit on the seat as Governing Board member at the next scheduled meeting, which will be held March 23.”

Grilli also said that Reyes was a good man who was actively involved at board meetings.

“He cared a lot about his area and his school, Los Medanos, and we hope the new board member shares the same enthusiasm he did for his job.”

for outdoor sculptures. Fine arts professor Jaijun Lu has been chosen to fashion the memorial piece and has begun to work on the sculpture since the necessary $7,500 has been collected.

The molding for the pedestal is to be made by professional sculptor and college maintenance worker Perry Rossoukhi, and isn’t covered by the funding, Akers said.

An unveiling of the sculpture is scheduled to happen during the spring semester of 2012. It will be placed by the side of the Student Services Center in front of the Peace Grove, which commemorates students who have lost their lives to violence, Clow said.

“Being able to work together to achieve something so great, while we’re in such hard times, shows something about this college and how important Martin Padilla was. He will always be missed,” Clow said.

■ FROM: Page 1

lives of students,” he said.

Williams said that he hopes the bond measure will help the college elevate the facilities and technology to be on par with the college’s student success and quality of education.

“We’re doing an excellent job serving in the worst conditions,” he said. “We have a lot of needs here.”

Márquez agreed.

“I know as a previous professor that there is a dire need to renovate buildings at CCC,” he said.

Seismic retrofitting (CCC sits on the Hayward Fault), accessibility for disabled students and the construction of new campus facilities are the main aims of the bond measure, Williams said.

The funds provided by the bond would be used primarily for the construction of a more centralized and unified campus.

Under the Facilities Master Plan, the Student Activities Building will be demolished and reconstructed to incorporate the administrative offices and the Three Seasons, and a new building will take the place of the Humanities Building.

After, the more unified Science and Allied Health Building will take the place of the Liberal Arts Building, fitted with “up-to-date labs that are Internet connected,” Williams said.

In addition to erecting new buildings, the bond money will also be used to better the conditions of current buildings and make them more earthquake resistant and handicap accessible.

“Contra Costa is the only (district) college that sits on a fault, and we want to make sure that our students, faculty and staff are protected,” Márquez said.

Williams said, “We are seeing more disabled students at CCC and it’s imperative that we have a more accessible campus.”

While the fate of the June special election will not be known until sometime in March, Williams said that he sees no reason why the Governing Board should not approve the bond.

Given the results of the West County voter poll, Márquez said the Governing Board is supportive of the measure.

If the Governing Board approves the bond, the district will have to file the measure with the election office, and if the special election is secured, Márquez and Governing Board President John Nejedly will oversee the campaign, he said.

Additionally, if the bond is passed by voters, a bond oversight committee made up of West County residents will be assigned to make sure that funds are being spent appropriately, Williams said.

“There’s total accountability,” he said.

DeTorres | Professor takes rest to recover ■ FROM: Page 1

friend of mine,” Bell said.

Though he initially expected to substitute for a few weeks, Bell and the rest of the faculty standing in for DeTorres were asked to stay possibly through the semester, as DeTorres’ condition did not suggest he would return soon.

Despite the surprise extra section, Bell said he is used to adapting to change.

“The biggest problem, really, was getting the students caught up. Mostly, they just had to get used to the new style of teaching,” he said.

Most students, however, are acclimating

well, according to Smith.

“Since I made the initial introductions between the substitute professors and their classes and equipped them with the different syllabi, it’s been in their hands,” he said. “I’m glad it’s gone very smoothly; (the business department) is a good group of people and (DeTorres) obviously had a good rapport within the department.”

DeTorres, who was manager of the EOPS program for a few years before becoming a full-time business professor in 2009 and being appointed business department chairman in

2010, said he wants to return to CCC soon.

“I hope that sometime in the near future I’ll be able to get back in the swing of things,” he said. “But meanwhile. I’m just going to try and keep my energy level high and watch my diet.”

Besides not being able to walk the halls of CCC and teach his classes, DeTorres said what he misses most since his hospitalization is the freedom of eating sugary junk foods.

Smith said that he and the rest of the staff are hoping for a speedy recovery for DeTorres, whom he described as a “very pleasant guy to work with.”

Author visits CCC, gives autographs Lam presents personal novel excerpts, tales

By Christopher Clausen STAFF WRITER

cclausen.advocate@gmail.com

An author promoted his works and read excerpts from his new book to students and college employees to provide them with information on Asian culture on Feb. 23.

Andrew Lam sold copies of his book “East Eats West,” and signed autographs in the college Bookstore.

Lam, began speaking at approximately 9:50 a.m. to an auditorium of teachers and students in LA100.

Lam spoke about various subjects, ranging from how he came to live in the United States as a child, to how Asian culture is greatly influencing American society.

He read four passages: the

Award list Contra Costa College’s Speech and Debate Team competed in the Northern California Forensics Association Championship from Feb. 11-13 at Santa Rosa Junior College.

The team won Gold in the category of Overall Sweepstakes in the Limited Entry College Division.

Team member Margarita Romo-Romo won Silver in the category of Novice Persuasive Speaking.

Team member Ashley Schauer won Gold in the category of Novice Programmed Oral Interpretation.

Team members Ashley Schauer and Devin Gamble won Bronze in the category of Novice Parliamentary Debate.

first two from his first book titled “Perfume Dreams.” The next two were from his new book, the one he was promoting, “East Eats West.”

The first excerpt was a story about him burning his family’s pictures, except for a few that his brother had taken with him to college.

The next excerpt was a story about accents and how a strong foreign accent can hinder one’s ability to become successful in American society. However, Lam also said that with perseverance, even a strong accent cannot stop the ambitious.

The excerpt after that, the first one he read from “East Eats West,” was about a teacher he had worked under in America. He said the teacher was a great friend to him.

The final piece he read was an emotional one about karaoke, and how he and his family had a sort of a strong bonding moment while singing at a birthday party.

After the readings, Lam went over to the college Bookstore where he signed copies of both “Perfume Dreams” and “East Eats West.”

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ROMAN YOUNG / THE ADVOCATE

Inspiring with words — UC Berkeley alumni and author Andrew Lam signs one of his books for ESL professor Elizabeth Xiezopolski in the college Bookstore on Feb. 23.

Lam has been writing for about 20 years. Aside from being a novelist, he is also a journalist and an editor of the online news service New America Media.

This is not his first time speaking at CCC. He also spoke about five years ago to promote his first book, “Perfume Dreams.”

“I want to promote with different schools,” Lam said, in hopes that many will consider using his books for ESL classes.

Though “his books are a little advanced,” ESL teacher Elisabeth Xiezopolski said, she has used some of his pieces to bring up discussions in her class.

Janis Walsh, the manager of the Bookstore and part of the Friends of the Library, said that she would love to bring more authors to CCC. She would, however, like to put more of an emphasis on faculty members who are also authors.

Walsh met Lam five years ago, when he first came to the college.

Lam was not always a writer.

He started out at UC Berkeley as a biochemistry major.

His peers and professors said that he was such a good writer, though, that it was recommended he rethink his major and consider majoring in creative writing.

Lam will be speaking at several other places in March to promote his book, just as he did at CCC.

Group wins at championship Speech team sweeps, defeats competition

By Faythe Del Rosario STAFF ILLUSTRATOR

frosario.advocate@gmail.com

The Contra Costa College Speech and Debate Team participated in the Northern California Forensics Association Championship Feb. 11-13 at Santa Rosa Junior College, bringing home several awards.

The awards won included the Gold in Overall Sweepstakes in the Limited Entry Community College Division.

Coach and speech professor Marie Arcidiacono said, “The team has been preparing all year, but a few weeks ago is when the team went into tournament mode.”

The Speech and Debate Team competed against both two-year and four-year schools including Diablo Valley College, UC Berkeley and San Francisco State University.

Coach Nicholas Vontex Chin, a former CCC Speech and Debate Team member, said, “(The team) researched the knowledge for current events. These are people who

are genuinely concerned.”

After the last event, which Some of the topics, like immigra- marks Schauer’s seventh tournation, green energy and California’s ment, she said that winning isn’t budget were researched and debat- everything. ed by participants during the tour“I can honestly say that I never nament, he said. went to a tournament without winMountain top removal mining ning, except state,” Schauer said.

The team constantly supports is a big issue that not many people know about, said Middle College and gives each other feedback. The High School student Margarita group is very close to each other, Romo-Romo. she said.

Mining comS p e e c h blow department panies “(The Speech and off the tops of C h a i r wo m a n mountains to o n n i e Debate Team) keeps CAnderson gather coal and said, it is not good, getting better and bet- “The team she said. getting ter, and that’s what’s keeps R o m o better and better, good about this pro- and that’s what’s Romo won good about this Silver in Novice gram.”

Persuasive program.”

Speaking on The NCFA Connie Anderson, the subject. The Championship speech department chairwoman third-semester tournament had team member a grading scale had extensively looked for infor- that allocated points from zero mation about this method of min- to 25 on several different aspects ing. It took about a month or so to that included the speaker’s actual speech, delivery skill, organization research the subject, she said.

Liberal arts majorAshley Schauer and transition from one point to won Gold in Novice Programmed the next.

Individual speakers in perOral Interpretation and also Bronze in Novice Parliamentary Debate suasive, extemporaneous and with her partner, psychology major impromptu categories were also Devin Gamble. ranked among the other partici-

pants and those in the top 10 to 15 percent go to the final rounds, Anderson said.

She said that judging in Oral Interpretation of Literature and Parliamentary Debate have a few differences that the judges are also looking at.

Those who participate in Oral Interpretation of Literature are evaluated by their selection of material, how successful it is in surrounding a theme and how the material is presented.

In debate, students compete in six rounds and did not know if they were in agreement with the resolution or in opposition of it until just prior to the competition.

During the debate portion of the championship, those participating were given 20 minutes to prepare and speak with other group members and coaches to create a strong presentation.

“At state, they won’t be able to do that,” Anderson said. “The state competition will be the toughest, especially because there are more teams and colleges in Southern California.”

The team’s next competition, the California Community College Forensic Association Championship, is in Woodland Hills from March 16-20.

Gathering educates, informs new students Fireside Room hosts First Year Experience

By Jesslyn Sherrod STAFF WRITER

jsherrod.advocate@gmail.com

Some students who needed help and were unfamiliar with the services offered by the college were given an opportunity to speak with those in positions to help.

First-year students lined up early outside the Fireside Room on Feb. 16 in order to attend the First Year Experience Convocation from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This event was organized and held as an effort to help first-year students at Contra Costa College receive the resources they need in order to have a successful college experience.

Staff and organizers were busy bringing out extra chairs and helping students sign in for the large turnout.

“I’m looking for information on tutoring for some of my classes,” first-year student Lemont Brown said.

Funded through Basic Skills, FYE may be offered in the fall and spring or just once a year, with usually different approaches and attempts to get students involved.

“The responsibility of coordinating FYE this year was given to Student Life Coordinator Kelly Ramos and myself,” EOPS Care Manager Vicki Ferguson said.

Students were welcomed by college President McKinley Williams, Vice President Carol Maga, Senior Dean of Students Frank

Hernandez and Associated Student Union President Joseph Camacho, all of whom encouraged students to utilize the resources given and to ask questions.

Those who attended also had the chance to hear from representatives from Admissions & Records, financial aid and scholarships, EOPS, Disabled Students Programs and Services, counseling, Transfer/Career Center, CalWORKs, job placement, international students, student life, the Bookstore, Police Services and even FYE counselor Lorena Gonzalez.

After the panel, students were able to engage with the different departments and pick up more material on services available to them. Representatives answered many questions after panel.

“Financial aid counselors are your guide to successfully completing your financial aid process,” financial aid assistant Dezelle McCray said. One of the most popular questions was how to fill out the FAFSA. “There is a lab we provide to assist them with the process,” McCray said.

The event also held a graduation fashion show, which featured students dressed in the official cap and gown of an associate, bachelor, master’s, or doctorate degree.

Also, prizes were raffled off at various times during the event, such as T-shirts, flash drives and books. Many students were able to walk away with more knowledge than they came with.

“I came for more information on anyROMAN YOUNG / THE ADVOCATE thing new I needed to know,” first-year stu- Open arms — Counseling department Chairwoman Norma Valdez-Jimenez dent Laurie Rogers said. “I feel that this was speaks at the First Year Experience Convocation held in the Fireside Room on very helpful and informative.”

Feb. 16.

6 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011

FOCU

Lion pride — A Mills High School lion dancer performs in front of judges at the Chinese New Year Parade on Kearny Street in San Francisco on Feb. 19. Many performers, including this one, danced through the parade under heavy rainfall.

A FESTIVAL O

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Spinning with grace — A dancer performs with 25 hula hoops at the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on Feb. 19.

Festive faces — Performers show off their masks and wave to the crowd of spectators that swarm th performers made their way through the wet streets of San Francisco to celebrate and display traditiona

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOC

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH. 2, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

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GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

OF HERITAGE

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

swarm the streets surrounding the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on Feb. 19. Many traditional Chinese heritage.

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

High view — Shoppers watch the Chinese New Year Parade from the top floors of the Union Square Macy’s store in San Francisco on Feb. 19.

Cold wait — Spectators stand through the rain on Market Street in San Francisco as they wait for the Chinese New Year Parade to begin on Feb. 19. Rain and light showers continued to fall throughout most of the event, forcing some performers to wear clear ponchos over their costumes.

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

/ THE ADVOCATE

Smiles and cheers — Students of the Chinese School of Alamo smile and clap their hands while they perform in the Chinese New Year Parade on Kearny Street in San Francisco on Feb. 19. Many young children performed as part of different local schools in the parade.

8 THE ADVOCATE

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CAMPUS BEAT

Television station faces elimination Funds, interest in program fade

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

mlastra.advocate@gmail.com

Due to the budget crisis the college and the district is currently facing, the Contra Costa Educational Television station is subject to being cut from Contra Costa College.

CCETV, formerly known as the KCCC and located in AA-117, has been in existence for more than 25 years.

“It’s going to be difficult (to keep CCETV around),” President McKinley Williams said. “Money is tight right now, our equipment (for CCETV) is old and we have no money to update it.”

CCETV is an educational cable access television station that broadcasts material for telecourses, or video-based classes, to help aid students.

Neither of CCC’s sister schools, Los Medanos College or Diablo Valley College, has an educational broadcast station.

Students can watch the broadcasts via Comcast or AT&T, and also have the ability to watch an educational program that goes with their telecourse in AA-117.

“We are a service-based department and there are two pieces to it: the production and the broadcast,” CCC Technology Systems Manager James Eyestone said.

“What is required is that we work on the broadcast, set up telecourses and the rest of the scheduling, such as what is going to be played and when.”

The studio for CCETV is open

“We’re faced with the dilemma of figuring out how to keep CCETV, so we may convert its courses to the Internet.”

McKinley Williams, president

all day for students to come in and watch programming segments for their classes.

Currently, Eyestone is in charge of CCETV along with Computer Center technician Bernadette Green. They both took over the work after former video production engineer Barry Benioff was forced to retire due to the budget cuts in July 2010.

“The television station was moved under the technology department after Benioff retired,” Eyestone said. “The college has chosen not to reopen that position (that Benioff once had), so we took over it.”

Along with the college’s budget problems and the rising popularity of Internet use, CCETV could be converted to make the videos accessible via the Internet.

“It costs the college to maintain courses (such as) CCETV,” Williams said. “We’re faced with the dilemma of figuring out how to keep CCETV, so we may convert its courses (to online).”

Eyestone said that CCETV basically runs itself, as the college puts little resources into its operation and the studio has outdated equipment.

However, since the program runs itself through its studio, there

are hardly any problems it faces in getting out programming, other than a power outage or satellite malfunction.

Eyestone “There were a couple of times where CCETV was down, but that was only because of a satellite change,” Green said. “If that is the case we have to do some reprogramming.”

Due to CCETV operating on its own without much attention of staff members, it is a favorite to be cut since it is hardly used. The classroom is generally empty despite the studio being open throughout the course of the day.

“Given our budget situation and without devoting staff, time and resources, we may have to cut it back,” Williams said.

Rabbits celebrated for new lunar year San Francisco parade rings in culture, hares

By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR

awaite.advocate@gmail.com

SAN FRANCISCO — Writhing dragons lit up the streets and triggered excitement from onlookers as they slithered among other attractions during the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on Feb. 19.

Despite the cold and rainy conditions, thousands of people ventured out equipped with umbrellas and ponchos to watch the festive floats and performances celebrate the Lunar New Year.

“I like the cultural activity (of the parade).

It enriches peoples’ lives,” Santa Cruz resident Mary Liu said.

The parade brought in the Year of the Hare accordingly with a recurring theme of rabbits incorporated into many of the

festivities.

Virginia resident Terral Bolton said one of her favorite attractions in the parade was a martial arts group who performed with numb chucks resembling carrots.

Bolton said, “I’m very glad the parade is still going strong. It was wonderful.”

Vibrantly colored lion dancers, musical performances with a heavy emphasis on percussion and floats carrying distinguished figures such as Miss Chinatown U.S.A. and various politicians entertained the masses.

One of the crowd favorites was the 250foot golden dragon that made its appearance at the end of the parade, preceded by a string of deafening firecrackers.

“It was awesome. We were inside the last dragon,” San Juan Bautista resident Margo Abengano Cloutier said. “We touched all the tails on it so we’re going to have super luck this year.”

Cloutier, an attendee of the parade for more than 15 years, said the floats were beautiful, as were the dresses worn by the

Muindi voluntarily resigns her position as vice chancellor

SAM ATTAL/ THE ADVOCATE

Happy hopping — Bunny dancers perform in front of the crowd at the Chinese New Year Parade held on Kearny Street in San Francisco on Feb. 19. women upon them, though she felt sorry they had to endure the cold weather in that attire.

Liu said this was her second parade, but last year’s paled in comparison.

“I liked it so much I told my husband I have to come back every year. I want to live longer just so I could come every year. It was so good,” she said.

The parade began at 5:15 p.m. at Second

and Market streets, and ended roughly two and a half hours later at Kearny and Jackson streets.

UC Santa Cruz student Maryna Sedoryk said the parade was longer than she anticipated, but she planned ahead and brought a trash bag to sit on and help her stay dry.

“It’s been pouring all day and it’s really chilly out here, but we’re still here,” Sedoryk said.

ADVERTISEMENT

By Lamar James

Murillo said the district will not be refilling the position because it is less costly to split the posiAfter being hired for the posi- tion between two people who are tion of associate vice chancel- already working than to hire somelor and chief financial officer in one new.

“Instead of rehiring someone to October 2009 to handle finances when the district was facing a $16 do the job, the responsibilities she million deficit for the fiscal years had will be split between myself of 2009-10 and 2010-11, Serena and (director of fiscal services) Muindi has resigned from the dis- Judy Breza.”

Murillo said although the new trict.

Muindi was hired for the posi- task will add pressure and a heavition of associate vice chancellor er workload, her and Garza will do and chief financial officer after the their best to tackle the job.

“These are tough times, and in position was vacated in 2009.

The position was granted an tough times you have to pick up annual salary of $160,000 and and tackle issues. We are prepared required calculating the monies to do the job. It may be tough but we are willing and the allocato do it.” tion of funds to “It is a sad time in Benjamin the college dissaid, “(Muindi) trict. the district.

We miss has not been Chancellor (Muindi’s) services with us that Helen Benjamin long. She was said Muindi’s and skills. hired in October, position was of and started in great importance Kindred Murillo, April.” to the district. vice chancellor of administrative services U n i t e d She said F a c u l t y Muindi took on the duties of the position and per- President Jeffrey Michels said he was on the hiring committee when formed them well. “(However), she found another Muindi was hired and that the proposition and would prefer that to cess took two interviews.

“I remember we wanted to pick this one,” Dr. Benjamin said.

Muindi was hired after an exten- the person we felt had the best sive search for someone who could qualifications for the job,” he said.

He said it was an honor to have perform the job and tasks included at the time when the budget was Muindi work for the district.

“She was really good at the job, tight.

District Vice Chancellor of and she was doing most of the data Administrative Services Kindred work,” he said.

Benjamin said the district is sad Murillo said the exact reason Muindi resigned cannot be dis- that Muindi is leaving. “We will closed because it is a personnel really miss her,” she said.

Muindi was very serious about matter.

She said the district is in the her job and performed the job process of doing some reductions really well, but would rather take the other position. because of the budget crisis.

Murillo said Muindi provided “It is easier to not fill a vacant position than it is to lay someone great services to the college, and that she will feel the effects of her off,” Dr. Murillo said.

She also said that in a time resignation.

“It is a sad time in the district. when the district is doing reductions, Muindi’s resignation will We will miss her services and help, because it was a voluntarily skills. It is always a hard time when we lose someone,” she said. resignation instead of a layoff.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ljames.advocate@gmail.com

Muindi After being hired in October of 2009 as associate vice chancellor and chief financial officer of the Contra Costa Community College District, Serena Muindi resigned her post after a very short term.

Chancellor Helen Benjamin and Vice Chancellor Kindred Murillo say her position will not be filled.

Instead, her responsibilities will be split between Dr. Murillo and Director of Fiscal Services Judy Breza.

BOOKBYTE.COM/CCC

Hernandez takes a bow, exits college Dean retires from post, leaves lengthy tenure

By Sam Attal

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

sattal.advocate@gmail.com

Through his tenure, Frank Hernandez has developed what he calls a “love affair” with Contra Costa College.

He has worked at the college for nearly 25 years, built many ties in the educational system throughout the state and has deep roots in the local community.

Even before Hernandez began working at CCC he sought to come back to the campus where he once attended classes so he could provide students with the experience, culture and knowledge he obtained while growing up in Richmond.

But in a time when budget cuts to higher education are causing cutbacks and layoffs, the 64-yearold has chosen to step down from his position as senior dean of students and go into retirement before he has his heart broken.

His last day on the job was Monday.

“I spent a long time trying to build things here,” Hernandez said.

“It is difficult for me to be here to dismantle what I have built.”

Many of Hernandez’s colleagues say that he has brought a strong sense of identity to CCC through his rich background in education and cultural studies.

“He’s been a fixture at this college,” Vice President Carol Maga said. “I learned a lot from him about the culture of the college.”

Hernandez has served many positions on campus that helped him understand what matters to students, President McKinley Williams said.

“Our community college is better because of his long tenure,” Williams said. “He’s a very passionate man (and) he’s always been a strong supporter of students.

Williams and Hernandez have known each other for many years.

Their friendship goes back to when they played basketball together for Richmond High School in the

1960s.

Although Williams says that Hernandez can barely make a jump shot nowadays, he agrees that Hernandez has always been competitive and challenging by nature, both on and off the basketball court. These traits show in his everyday talks to help motivate students to finish college.

“He has some pretty high standards,” Williams said.

Hernandez attributes his stern characteristics to his father, Frank Hernandez Sr. His father, a World War II veteran, held strict expectations over him throughout his youth.

“He was a disciplinarian — he expected a lot from his family,” Hernandez said. “I never thought I’d be like him, yet I’ve grown up to be just like him.”

Although Hernandez holds stern and high expectations for those pursuing education, he was not always the role model student.

Hernandez is an only child who was born into a low-income family. Neither of his parents obtained high school diplomas.

Hernandez said he had a tough time getting above average grades.

“I came here as a student who followed his friends and didn’t have a vision,” he said. “It was the athletic field that made me confident.”

Hernandez would often be found on playgrounds and makeshift sports fields.

“I was able to express myself on the field, and really in the street,” he said.

It was not until he set foot into a psychology class taught by Bill Worley at CCC that he saw higher education as an opportunity worth pursuing.

The psychology class challenged Hernandez to find out more about himself.

“I could actually get a degree where I could learn about myself.”

Hernandez eventually received his associate degree in psychology and decided to transfer soon after.

Hernandez found himself in the midst of social revolution in the spring of 1969 while he attended San Francisco State University.

Students and advocacy groups were fighting for the right to teach ethnic studies classes all while the

SPOTLIGHT

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

9

COMET FOR LIFE

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

Deep passion — Frank Hernandez retired from his senior dean of students post on Monday after working various positions at the college for nearly 25 years. traditional education system was being challenged.

It was here where Hernandez said he found the new ideologies he wished to bring back to the Richmond area.

“It was important to demonstrate,” Hernandez said. “We had to do things that were outrageous.”

Hernandez received his bachelor’s degree in counseling from San Francisco State in 1969 and his master’s in 1972.

“I wanted to get back to CCC to bring back what I learned,” Hernandez said.

He soon began his teaching career in the mid-1980s.

Counseling department Chairwoman Norma Valdez-

Jimenez was just starting off at CCC and enrolled in Hernandez’s La Raza 113 class.

“He was not a very traditional teacher,” Valdez-Jimenez said.

“When you walked in the classroom you sat in a circle and learned about each other.”

In 1989, Hernandez started as assistant dean of instructional technology. His titles as a dean would change over the next few years until in 2004 he settled as the senior dean of students.

Even though Hernandez plans to come back to CCC to help support various projects including a community garden, many say they will miss his leadership over at student services.

“It’s going to be really weird to not see him here,” Valdez-Jimenez said. “He’s been the rock in student services. He’s done a lot to really bring us together as a team to give students what they deserve.”

Student Charity Ruth Edmondson said Hernandez is the reason she is still in school.

“When scared adults come in (to college) he showed me that he won’t let us walk out the door,” she said.

Hernandez said he wants to remind everyone that he is not deserting the campus and the community.

“My relationship with this campus is not going to end, it’s just going to change.”

Ferguson assumes interim position

By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR

awaite.advocate@gmail.com

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

With students in mind — Vicki Ferguson brings leadership and determination as she moves into the position of interim dean of students. She left her previous position of manager of EOPS Tuesday to assume her new duties.

Driven by immense dedication and a passion to help students in need, as she once was one, Vicki Ferguson has continuously moved up the ranks in student services during her eight years at Contra Costa College.

On Tuesday, Ferguson left her position as manager of EOPS and became the interim senior dean of students, a position that takes the place of senior dean of students until June 30.

“She’s going to do a good job,” former senior dean of students Frank Hernandez said.

“She’s been in a manager position in student services for five years and understands the needs of students as a counselor.”

Hernandez said he believes Ferguson’s experience counseling students and managing the EOPS budget has prepared her to take on the dean position.

President McKinley Williams said Ferguson has helped build up the EOPS program and that students who have been through the program have experienced success in transferring to four-year colleges.

“She has done an excellent job in her position. Her leadership in EOPS has really been exemplary,” Williams said.

EOPS Coordinator Kenneth Reynolds said Ferguson can handle stress well and motivates those around her to do things they thought they were not capable of doing.

“Vicki is very caring and supportive to students,” Reynolds said. “She’s a born leader; her dynamic ability to be creative is exceptional.”

Hernandez said, “She’ll keep (the position) alive and running. She is better at technology than I am. She can use that to twist the position in her own way.”

Ferguson began working at CCC in 2003 as a part-time counselor and adjunct professor, teaching Counseling 120 and Psychology 102. Three years later, she moved up to a full-time EOPS counselor position, and only a year after that she became manager of EOPS. “My career goal was to become a manager and to become a voice for students,” Ferguson said. “The opportunities presented

themselves.”

During her time as EOPS manager Ferguson oversaw the program, worked with the budget and wrote plans for the year to send to Sacramento to be approved.

The manager lobbies for EOPS at the state level and monitors the program to make sure it runs within the regulations of the state, Reynolds said.

Originally from Gadsden, Ala., Ferguson attended Jacksonville State University and later worked there as a counselor. After her time there, she moved “Vicki is very car- to Louisiana work with ing and supportive to low-income to students. She’s a first generation college born leader.” students through a Kenneth Reynolds, federal grant.

EOPS coordinator Wo r k i n g with educationally disadvantaged students developed into a passion of hers.

“I see myself in them,” Ferguson said.

“I was the youngest of seven children and the first to go to college. Having to navigate filling out all the applications, you know what you want to do, then you have all those obstacles and gates in the way.”

Prompted by a job offer for her husband, she moved to California in 2002. Nine years and two kids later, Ferguson had made California her home.

As Ferguson takes on the position of acting dean of students, EOPS counselor Ollie Baylis-Payne will be the manager of EOPS for the remainder of the spring semester.

“It was a smooth transition. She’s done it in the past, and is familiar with the coordinator position,” Ferguson said. “Everyone was cooperative. It’s important for student services to work as a unit, a team (of people) who support each other. Our mission is to help students.”

Reynolds said the disciplinary scale of a dean is larger than an EOPS manager’s because the dean must handle any issue regarding student services, but he has no doubt that Ferguson can handle it.

10 THE ADVOCATE Unleashed

Movies

This week: “Rango” (G) “The Adjustment Bureau” (PG13) “Take Me Home Tonight” (R) “Beastly” (PG-13) “I Saw The Devil” (UR)

DVDs

This week: “127 Hours” (R) “Black Swan” (R) “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part: 1” (PG-13) “Love and Other Drugs” (R) “Burlesque” (PG-13)

CDs

This week: Dropkick Murpheys: “Going Out Of Style” Go Radio: “Lucky Street” Forever The Sickest Kids: “Forever The Sickest Kids” Paper Cuts: “Fading Parade” Ron Sexsmith: “Long Player”

Games

This week: Beyond Good & Evil (XBOX 360) Dragon Age 2 (XBOX 360, PS3) Call Of Duty: Black Ops — First Strike (PS3) Pokemon Black Version (DS) Editor’s note: This column lists popular new (and upcoming) releases for the week.

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011

SCENE

Showcase lacks rich jocularity

By Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER

rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com

Walking into the BoilerHouse Restaurant in Richmond for the Contra Costa College StandUp Comedy Show, what stood out most was that the house was packed.

About 30 minutes after the show’s 7 p.m. start time, the almost inaudible master of ceremonies finally introduced the first student performer, presented by the CCC drama department.

Student Jonah Miranda’s opening joke about “Call of Duty: Black Ops” and how much he plays it was un-funny. The start to an almost uneventful evening had begun. After a few more minutes of almost complete silence, Miranda told the audience about how he carries grenades at bars that earned him a few laughs as his time on stage came to an end.

Next up was Cardellous Snell and his loud and energetic brand of comedy. He told the crowd about eventreview his woman problems, describing the age-old story of how women are always finding something to complain about.

After a few chuckles behind “Stand-Up that joke, he serenaded the Comedy Show” room with his very own rendi★★★★★ tion of “It’s a Small World” Headliner: Jose Lopez while explaining his trip to Where: Disneyland.

BoilerHouse He kept the crowd’s attenRestaurant tion, but then lost it while he talked about a trip to the movies when he was the third wheel and he rambled on and on. It got to the point where the joke stopped being funny and started being annoying.

The comedy style of Eddie Horalek was next and he entertained the crowd throughout his set. Though his jokes weren’t hysterically funny, they all got laughs, especially when he joked about his friend’s mother. The joke itself was pretty funny but the funniest part of it was the impersonations of his friend and his friend’s mom.

Kevin Hayes made some laughable jokes about being a rapper and interacting with other rappers. The rapper names he came up with, “Water Bottle, Water Bottle” and “Young Bambi,” were quite funny, mostly because they were believable.

Often times, friends are the butt of a joke among comedians, and Sarah Piane’s friend Aundrea and her man problems were the sub-

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

Joking around — Student Jose Lopez performs during the Stand-Up Comedy Show at the BoilerHouse Restaurant in Richmond on Feb. 17. Most of the routines lacked originality and received few laughs or applause from audience members.

ject of about half of her act, and Piane wasn’t half bad.

Gaspar Bernal wasn’t funny until he grabbed his guitar and started to sing out random jokes.

One was about how hard it is for him to meet women at parties. He said the parties he normally frequents are family reunions.

Jose Lopez said that his uncle was arrested

for driving while naked. He then revealed to us that his uncle drove a school bus. Lopez was last on the list of mostly sub-par comics, but he was by far the funniest. He mentioned seeing a girl who was so huge that her “tramp stamp” was more like a “tramp mural.” He then mentioned that the overweight girl was his mother.

Overall, this show was no laughing matter.

Capcom hits hard with new game

By April Halog STAFF WRITER

ahalog.advocate@gmail.com

“Marvel vs. Capcom 3” is the long-awaited sequel to one of the best fighting games in history.

This three versus three fighter pits some of the best characters from the Marvel universe and the Capcom universe against each other.

Each side contains 18 characters, bringing the total of characters to 36, though four of them are locked when you start the game.

This roster seems small compared to “Marvel vs. Capcom 2’s” massive 56 character roster.

Fans of the previous games will be happy to know, though, that characters like Sentinel, Captain America and Wolverine are still in the game, while some fans will be disappointed that some favorites like Mega Man, Gambit and Cable didn’t make the cut.

The smaller number of characters is compensated by some newer characters who are either similar in move-set to previous characters, while some newer characters, like Dante from the “Devil May Cry” series, come with their own unique move-set.

The variety of character combinations is the real fun, and gamers will find themselves trying out different teams for weeks. There’s a promise of downloadable characters in the future, but only time will tell which fan favorites or new characters will join the ranks.

The game play is different this time around. Instead of the two kicks and two punches control scheme, the game now plays to a set of light, medium, heavy and special attacks. The special attack helps players launch their oppo-

SPECIAL TO / THE ADVOCATE

Ready to rumble— “Marvel vs. Capcom 3” brings in new characters, features and graphics to the classic fighting game franchise that promises to keep fans playing.

character’s move-set and teaches nent in the air. From there, they advanced techniques as you can ease into air combos or aerial team combos. gamereview progress.

Even though the game is “Akin to Street Fighter easy to pick up, it remains IV’s” ultra combos, the complex enough to keep hyper combos are very advanced players interested. flashy and serve as a A new gameplay mechanic great feast for the eyes.

“Marvel vs. called the “X Factor” emits a This change in conCapcom 3” red glow around your charactrols makes the game ★★★★★ Studio: Capcom ter and gives your character more accessible to Genre: fighting a temporary boost in attack, new players, but a bit MSRP: $59.99 defense and speed after hitfrustrating to seasoned ting all four attack buttons veterans since they are simultaneously. compelled to start from Depending on how many charthe ground up. acters are remaining in a team, X To help adjust to the new conFactor can last from 10 to 30 sectrol scheme, there is a mission onds. However, X Factor can be mode that helps players learn a

used only once, so use it wisely.

This new feature is a great new addition and a great way to make a comeback.

Another change is the graphics. This game does away with the animated sprites and goes with a more comic-book style, and with its flashy gameplay, there is a vibrancy and pop in color, which is lacking in most games. The characters are heavily detailed.

Despite the changes, the game is still fun and addicting. Though it cannot completely replace “Marvel vs. Capcom 2,” “Marvel vs. Capcom 3” is easily becoming one of the best fighting games of this generation.

SPORTS

■ students

hilberthibarra

CCC athletes serve positive role for area

W

hat is one of the first things you think about when you think of a college?

Is it the quality of the education? Some people think of academics and professors, but other people think of athletic programs.

Though some people do not value sports, it cannot be denied that a college’s sports program is, for many people, one of its defining factors.

What are the values that athletics bring to college campuses?

Sports teams bring value on many different levels; to individual athletes, to the campus communities and to the overall reputation of the school.

Student athletes must follow a strict code of conduct and academic standing. They must be full-time students and maintain a 2.0 minimum GPA. Their behavior on and off the field or court must demonstrate respect for their school, coach and even their teammates.

The Handbook and Code of Conduct for Contra Costa College Athletics says, as a student athlete you are “representing the Comets, yourself, your family and your community with pride,” as well as being a “representative of the college.”

Student-athletes have their class attendance monitored throughout each semester and are required to go to tutoring if their grades begin to slide.

They are pushed to stay on track academically while participating in the sports program.

Therefore, athletics contributes to individual students being responsible for their education and gives students extra support to succeed on and off the field.

The sports programs on college campuses contribute to a feeling of campus community. Students come together as fans and gather to watch games and support their teams.

It also brings the surrounding communities together on the college campus.

For example, athletes at Contra Costa College come from Richmond, San Pablo and other East Bay cities and therefore attract fans to come to the games from these communities and also around the rest of the Bay Area.

Finally, athletic programs contribute to the overall reputation of the college.

Prospective students trying to choose a school may look at the quality of a college’s athletic teams as one reason to choose one school over another.

Businesses on and around college campuses appreciate the added revenue brought by sports programs and their fans during games, which contributes to the positive reputation of the college.

Athletics are a major part of college campuses and contribute many valuable qualities.

At this time of economic crisis and continuing budget cuts, the athletic program at CCC may be at risk of losing one or more of its teams.

Hopefully the athletic department will continue to strive behind its hard work and success around the community.

Hilberth Ibarra is a staff writer for The Advocate.

Contact him at hibarra. advocate@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

11

Batting woes sting Comets Hitting proves useless as squad falls in shutout

By Horace Jordan STAFF WRITER

hjordan.advocate@gmail.com

The baseball team failed to establish any offensive rhythm as it took a 1-0 loss to Hartnell College on Thursday on the baseball field.

Contra Costa College (2-8) was held scoreless against the Panthers (3-7) as the Comets could not find any sync hitting the ball.

CCC will host Mendocino College on Thursday at 2 p.m. in a Bay Valley Conference clash.

“We’ve got to work on our hitting,” coach Marvin Webb said. “I mean guys think they can hit, but we need to work on our mechanics and guys just need to grow up.”

Panther outfielder Jordan Holler opened the game well for Hartnell after he hit a double off of Comet pitcher Chris Lovejoy. Holler managed to steal third base, which set up a Hartnell run after outfielder Manny Martinez hit a single to bring in Holler.

The Comets struggled to establish any consistent offense in the first inning as the squad made three quick outs.

Solid pitching proved to be the only thing going right for CCC as it prevented the Panthers from extending their lead, thus allowing the game to stay competitive.

“Just throwing strikes and letting them fly out kept us in the

QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE

Fast pitch — Comet pitcher Chris Lovejoy throws a pitch during the team’s 1-0 loss to Hartnell College on Thursday. game,” Lovejoy said.

The Comets eventually started to pick things up on the offensive end in the sixth inning after second basemen Michael Chambers recorded a base hit and stole second base. “(Hartnell’s) pitcher was throwing right over the plate with

curve balls and I was just able to hit some right up the middle,” Chambers said.

The offensive spark by Chambers was one of the only bright moments of the day for CCC as it reverted back to what doomed the team from the start of the game.

“We were swinging at (bad) pitches and getting ourselves out,” shortstop Saul Rodriguez said.

“We were off balanced and just didn’t stick to the game plan.”

Rodriguez, who earlier had recorded the Comets’ first hit of the game, gave CCC a chance to win the game as he led off with a base hit in the seventh inning. After the hit, third basemen Cameron Doorn continued the offensive surge with a base hit of his own.

With one out and two players on base, CCC was in position to put some runs on the scoreScoreBoard board, h o w Panthers 1 ever the Comets 0 Panthers Next game: were able to end the Thursday vs.

Mendocino, 2 s q u a d ’s p.m. chances after turning a double play, leaving the Comets empty handed in the inning.

“We had no offense, (Hartnell’s) pitcher threw good fast balls and also curve balls,” Webb said.

The Comets were faced with another chance to score in the eighth inning after catcher Carney Chamberlain hit a single to get on base.

Designated hitter Dorian Glover then hit a sacrifice bunt to help move Chamberlain on to second base. However, the Hartnell pitchers shut down the Comets once again, preserving the shutout victory and giving CCC its eighth loss of the season.

Alumni honored at event

By Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER

rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com

A proud baseball past and two of Contra Costa College’s most celebrated coaches were honored and remembered at the Baseball Alumni Recognition ceremony on Feb. 20 at the Knox Center.

The CCC baseball Hall of Fame inductees were 40-year coach (12 years at CCC) Larry Quirico and 30-year Comet coach Eugene Corr.

“This was an outstanding event and I enjoyed the heck out of it,” Quirico said. “Every time you’re honored it’s a special event, but it’s even better to be honored along with my former coach (Corr).”

Accepting the honor for his father was television writer and director Eugene Corr Jr. “I enjoyed this event very much,” Corr said.

“Coaches are a precious community resource.

There aren’t as many coaches today who know the game, and baseball requires good coaching.

Former CCC baseball player (2004-06) Noah Mitchell said, “I liked the event. It was good to see the old coaches, and it brought back some memories.”

The event began with introductory words from CCC Athletic Director John Wade II, followed by current Comet baseball coach Marvin Webb. Webb was a former player at the college under Corr, and he also was an assistant coach to Quirico.

Baseball (Feb. 24)

Totals

R 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

H 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0

Contra Costa College AB R Chambers 2b 4 0 Oda cf 4 0 Rodriguez ss 4 0 Price dh 4 0 Doorn 3b 3 0 Simmons lf 3 0 Chamberlain c 3 0 Glover dh 2 0 Hunter rf 3 0

RBI 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

30 1 4 1

Hartnell College Contra Costa College

H 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 0

RBI 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1

30 0 6 3 100 000

000 000

“Coach Corr set the foundation and the bar for great coaching at CCC,” Webb said. “This was a good event as it brought back a lot of memories. It was good to see the alumni. This was a great gathering.”

The first to be honored was Quirico. This was Quirico’s fourth Hall of Fame induction and he said that this induction was special to him because his heart lies with CCC. He also said that this event is important for present players so that they will know the legacy of the Comets.

“I haven’t regretted one minute of coaching in 40 years. If I could go back in time, I wouldn’t change a thing. This is the greatest profession going.”

Coach Corr was then honored. Before Corr Jr. spoke on behalf of his late father, coach Webb shared stories and anecdotes relating to the close relationship he had with his former coach.

“Coach Corr was my coach at CCC in 1971

and 1972 and he was also my mentor,” he said.

Corr Jr. said, “I grew up with baseball because my dad was a coach. I remember beating my father’s CCC team when I played for Merritt College.”

He said, “It’s all about bringing up the kids.

Sports and the arts are so important in that regard. Being a part of a team gives you a place where you can belong and work on your weaknesses. Sports are empowering to young people.”

Quirico said that Corr was already a legendary junior college coach when Quirico was a freshman in high school. He said that it was Corr who taught him the game of baseball.

The 2011 CCC baseball team was also in attendance. Freshman pitcher and first baseman Trevon Prince said, “It was a good event.

It was nice getting to know some of the old CCC guys.”

Following the event was a Comet baseball game against College of the Siskiyous.

SportShort

Box scores Hartnell College AB Holler rf 3 Martinez cf 3 Flores dh 4 Watase 1b 4 Sinclair 3b 4 Comilla ss 3 Uncangco 2b 4 Blackwell c 3 Rocamora lf 2

QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE

Reunion — Coach Marvin Webb (right) talks to former baseball coaches and players during the Baseball Alumni Recognition event on Feb. 20 at the Knox Center.

000 000

-

1 0

IP

H R ER BB SO

Hartnell College Carma (W)

9.0

5 0

0

0

7

Contra Costa College Lovejoy (L) Moret

7.0 2.0

4 1 0 0

1 0

3 0

2 1

Schedule Baseball vs. Mendocino, Thursday, 2 p.m. at Laney, Saturday, 1 p.m. vs. Yuba, Tuesday, 2 p.m. at Marin, March 10, 2 p.m. at Napa, March 12, 1 p.m. vs. Solano, March 15, 2 p.m.

Softball at San Joaquin Delta, Thursday, 12, 2 p.m. at Mission, Saturday, 12, 2 p.m. at Marin, March 15, 12, 2 p.m.

Fatigue hurts team during doubleheader After cancelling seven preseason games so far this season, the softball team finally made its home field debut only to be dominated in a doubleheader match against Santa Rosa Junior College, losing 16-1 and 11-1 on Feb. 22.

Despite the Comets (0-2) showing promise on the mound behind pitchers Maritza Reyna and Krissy Oshiro, the team’s lack of fundamentals was evident as players dropped fly balls, failed to snag ground balls, displayed poor throwing and failed to establish solid hitting leading to the Bear Cub (8-2) victories.

“The pitchers we pitched played better than what the score said,” coach Ed Miller said. “When you can’t catch fly balls or field ground balls, you give the opposing team more at bats, which limits our opportunities to get on base.”

In the first game against Santa Rosa, the Bear Cubs kept CCC on the defensive for the majority of the game, which eventually tired out its pitchers due to the squad’s inability to get Santa Rosa players out.

The Comets also struggled to get on base as they failed to hit the ball, which also contributed to the team’s fatigue. “(Our defense) couldn’t execute the fundamentals, which makes it hard for the pitchers,” Miller said. “ Instead of our pitchers resting up

(between innings), they’re still out on the field pitching since we couldn’t make the outs.”

The Comets only run came from freshman shortstop Myeisha Ellison after she stroked a base hit, stole second base and ran home after two Bear Cub wild pitches.

Santa Rosa eventually took the win in five innings after the game was called due to the mercy rule since the Comets were losing by at least 10 runs after four innings.

The second game of the doubleheader was similar to the first, as CCC continued to struggle with its fundamentals, which again led to its pitchers staying on the field more than desired.

The Comets improved their hitting, however, as they managed to get five hits and scored a run as Ellison was brought home on a double by Oshiro.

After scoring four runs in the first inning and CCC’s inability to score again, the Bear Cubs tacked on seven more runs and were able to win the game again due to the 10-run mercy rule.

“The game could have been worse than what it was,” Miller said. “Our pitchers pitched good games but our defense didn’t support them. If you give up extra hits the pitchers (will eventually) labor.”

— Malcolm Lastra

12 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011

SPORTS

Fresh squad sets grand goals

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE

Baseball team starts new season strong, confident

By Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER

rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com

The Contra Costa College baseball team has not enjoyed much success over the past few seasons.

Last year was no exception as the Comets finished the season in last place in the Bay Valley Conference with a 3-21 conference record (6-30 overall).

The team has only managed to win a total of 12 games over the last two seasons, and in that same two-year span, CCC has a BVC record of 7-44. Yet, despite a dreadful recent past, a positive attitude and hard work in the pre-season has the Comets optimistic about their chances in 2011.

Coach Marvin Webb and the Comets baseball team are expect-

ing to improve this season behind has an overall record of 2-8.

The Comets expect their defense their core of solid freshmen playto be the strong point of the team ers.

“Recruiting was much better this season, coupled with a solid than it’s been in the past,” Webb pitching crew.

Webb said, “Our defense is good said. “This year we made a concerted effort to go out and look and we have several left-handed for good students and ball players, pitchers who can pitch.”

The buzz and surprisingly coming from we were able to “We’re trying to get the team is that pick up some i n t e r n a t i o n a l all the way to the top; they are anticia sucplayers. I think we’re trying to get to pating cessful season this season is too. going to be one the playoffs and go shman thousand perto state. We’ve been thirdF r ebaseman cent better than last season.” working hard for that Cameron “CJ” Doorn said, “I Webb said and anything else is a intend to play that the pre-seahard every game son schedule failure.” and I’d like to was purposely get a high batmade tough Saul Rodriguez, ting average this to prepare his shortstop year. As a team players for a big we’re looking forward to getting conference season.

However, so far in pre-season to a state championship and we’re play it has been a bit rough for the fighting hard for that.”

Doorn joins the Comets hailing team as it started 0-3, and as of now

Webb

Key games

Contra Costa College

Coach profile

Schedule

Coach Marvin Webb enters this season with plenty of confidence and is poised to erase the memory last season’s 6-30 overall record (3-21 in the BVC) and finish the season with a playoff berth.

March 3 vs. Mendocino 2 p.m.

March 10 at Marin 2 p.m.

Roster

The Comets were outscored 52-10, including an 18-1 loss, in the four games against Laney College last season. With the first game against Laney fast approaching, it will be interesting to see if coach Webb and the Comets have improved enough to compete with a team that has clearly had their number in the recent past.

Last season by the numbers Overall record 6-30 Conference record 3-21 Conference finish eighth Returning players Daryle Moret Donnie Hogan

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 45 51

Michel Chambers Cory Oda Saul Rodriguez David Watkins Matthias Westfall Ryan Cowart Kyle Tobler Charles Lyte Aaron Oaks Sebastian Barahona Simeon Ham Carney Chamberlain Mitchell Francisco Dorian Glover Mario DeAnda Cameron Doorn Marcell Hunter Daryle Moret Chris Lovejoy Donnie Hogan Francisco Avilez Ricco Walker Joseph Airoldi Angelo Simmons James Martin Trevon Prince Richie Mendoza

infielder outfielder/pitcher infielder/pitcher pitcher pitcher catcher pitcher/infielder outfielder infielder catcher outfielder catcher pitcher outfielder outfielder infielder/catcher outfielder/pitcher pitcher pitcher outfielder pitcher outfielder infielder outfielder infielder/outfielder pitcher/infielder pitcher

March 12 at Napa 1 p.m.

freshman freshman sophomore freshman freshman sophomore sophomore freshman freshman sophomore sophomore freshman freshman sophomore freshman freshman freshman sophomore freshman sophomore freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman

March 15 vs. Solano 2 p.m.

March 17 at Los Medanos 2 p.m.

March 20 at Mendocino 1 p.m.

March 22 vs. Laney 2 p.m.

March 24 at Yuba 2 p.m.

March 26 vs. Marin 1 p.m.

March 29 vs. Napa 2 p.m.

March 31 at Solano 2 p.m.

April 2 vs. Los Medanos 1 p.m.

Key players

The left handed pitcher looks to lead a poised pitching crew that hopes to be a solid bullpen.

The sophomore infielder brings veteran leadership and a hard work ethic to CCC.

Doorn

Rodriguez

Lovejoy

Prince The freshman hopes to be a great contribution to a team that expects great things this season.

March 5 at Laney 1 p.m.

March 8 vs. Yuba 2 p.m.

Ivory Jones Shane Dowling

When: Away: March 5, 2 p.m.

April 7, 2 p.m.

Home: March 22, 2 p.m.

Saul Rodriguez Sebastian Barahona

“I expect us to be ranked close to the top by the time the (BVC) season starts,” Webb said. “I expect a lot out of us this year.”

Even with spirits high, the Comets still said they have some work to do and that they need improvement in some areas.

“We’ve got to get some execution down, hitting wise,” Doorn said.

Coach Webb said they needed better execution on fundamental plays.

“We’re making good plays, but we lost the game against Cañada (College) because we dropped two pop-ups at first base and one in left field that cost us the game. And we have to get more hits with men in scoring position.”

Rodriguez said, “I worked on my overall game this off season.

You can never be ‘good enough,’ as you get higher in levels you always have to improve your overall game.

Our team defense is pretty good but we need to get big hits when we have runners in scoring position.”

Assistant coaches

Laney College

VS.

from Australia, where he played semi-pro baseball.

Sophomore shortstop Saul Rodriguez said, “We’re trying to go all the way to the top. We’re trying to get to the playoffs and go to state. We’ve been working hard for that and anything else is a failure.”

Freshman pitcher and first baseman from Oakland High School Trevon Prince said, “College ball is much different than high school.

There’s more structure.”

He also said that he plans to have a big season, he wants to be a great contributor to the team, get good grades and strive for the best.

Prince’s goal for the season, he said, is simply, “the championship; we want to go to state.”

The Comets have set high goals for themselves this season; aiming for a state title, which has eluded them since they won the state crown in 1955.

This season Contra Costa College plans to raise the baseball program out of obscurity and reclaim Comet glory.

April 5 vs. Mendocino 2 p.m.

April 7 at Laney 2 p.m.

April 9 vs. Yuba 1 p.m.

Infielder Doorn hopes to bring a solid batting presence to the Comets this season.

April 12 at Marin 2 p.m.

April 14 at Napa 2 p.m.