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Chinese New Year
Locals celebrate year of the tiger
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focus ◆ page 8
sports ◆ page 7
scene ◆ page 6
Baseball Multiple errors spark 9-4 loss
Hypnotic catharsis Cox bears soul in intimate show
VOL. 94, NO. 15
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WEDNESDAY, MAR. 3, 2010 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM
THE WEEKLY STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.
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Group seeks unity, roots
Senator offices vacant
FIRST ROUND KNOCKOUT
ASU board recruiting candidates to fill seats
By Lauren Shiraishi
By Lissette Alvarez
OPINION EDITOR
STAFF WRITER
Among the many benefits of attending community college is that it provides students an opportunity to network with peers and professors, learn more about themselves or prepare for transfer to a four-year university. The Umoja Learning Village, a recently implemented program at Contra Costa College, accomplishes all three. The program, whose name is based off the Swahili word for “unity,” aims to bring students together to achieve both personal and academic success. Similar to the way the Puente Program is geared toward those with Hispanic roots, the target audience of Umoja is African-Americans, AfricanAmerican studies department Chairwoman Carolyn Hodge said. “College can be very isolating, particularly if you don’t always have a lot of friends,” she said. “Students need a support group going through college, whether it’s through a department or a group of teachers.” Chapters of the Umoja Learning Village have been established at other colleges throughout the state, including CCC’s sister campuses Diablo Valley College and Los Medanos College. While discussions to bring Umoja to CCC initially began in 2007, the program officially made its debut in fall 2009. Between 2007 and 2008, a committee was formed to decide which classes and activities would be most beneficial. Among the committee members were Umoja coordinator and physical education professor Andrea Philips and Matriculation Coordinator Kenyetta Tribble. Sponsors of Umoja include the English and African-American studies departments. As with other campussponsored programs, students must fill out an application and attend an orientation prior to becoming a
Due to vacancies in its executive ranks, the ASU is currently recruiting for senator positions. The senator positions that have not yet been filled include Program for Adult College Education (PACE)/Weekend College, veterans affairs, re-entry adult learners, students with disabilities, athletics and non-resident and English as a second language (ESL) students, ASU President Kristina Bautista said. To apply for one of the vacant senator positions, students can contact the Student Life Center on campus at 510-235-7800, ext. 4237. The ASU is looking for candidates who can identify with their constituents and be dedicated to representing student constituent groups properly, Bautista said. Joseph Camacho was one such individual. ■ SEE ASU: Page 3
SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE
Drowning in disappointment — Comet sophomore guards Zenaia Hunt (left) and Lakesha Montgomery shed tears after Contra Costa College was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs following a last-minute 71-67 loss to Ohlone College in Fremont Friday.
LAST-MINUTE MISERY
Comets struggle to hold lead, fall to Ohlone after costly turnover ends playoff
■ SEE UMOJA: Page 3
run
season. The game opened up dry for both teams, SPORTS EDITOR as they had trouble maintaining offensive rebounds and making baskets. The FREMONT — Defensive struggles Renegades, however, were able to strike first throughout the game proved to be costly, as with a 3-point shot. the women’s basketball team was defeated “It was difficult to make baskets,” Comet by Ohlone College in the guard Savannah Stewart semi-final round of the said. “We weren’t NorCal Regional playoffs rebounding the ball “I feel we should here on Friday. well and our aggreshave won the game. siveness did not match Contra Costa College (19-10 overall, 11-5 in the (Ohlone’s).” However, we had a Bay Valley Conference) The Comets strugdefensive collapse in gled to score early, missfailed to maintain its defensive intensity late in ing their first five shot the end.” the game, falling to Ohlone attempts before finally (19-8 overall, 12-0 in the scoring when guard Paul DeBolt, Coast South Conference) Alana Aquino made two women’s basketball coach in a 71-67 result. free throws five minutes “We had some lapses,” into the game. Comet coach Paul DeBolt said. “We did not “We were overanxious, and we tried to do do what we had to do on defense to contain everything in a rush,” Comet guard Zenaia Ohlone.” Hunt said. CCC went 11-7 on away games this ■ SEE LOSS: Page 8 By Malcolm Lastra
Dialogue improving District plans in brief text message In the notifications ✔event of By Cassandra Juniel SPOTLIGHT EDITOR
Though each college often has its own individual method of communicating to students, faculty and staff in the case of an emergency, it is becoming more common to use short message service (SMS) text messaging as a source. Contra Costa College is one such place. “The text message and email emergency notification capability will be supplemental to, and integrated with, our existing communications systems,” district Emergency Services Coordinator Teddy Terstegge said. “We have a number of methods we use to alert people to emergencies on our campus, includ■ SEE TEXTING: Page 3
a major emergency, students will be notified via SMS and e-mail alerts. ✔ To be used by CCC and sister colleges in the district, the system is currently in the final stages of testing. ✔ Under 4CD, the same company as the audible alert system in place.
Athletic safety stirs concern for students Precautionary training planned
Averting injuries
By Alexandra Waite
page 2
As concern over athletic safety rises due to recent physically harmful incidents in the district and other places, the athletic department is in the process of improving its preventative safety measures. All of the coaches and teachers in the department either have or
■ SEE SAFETY: Page 3
MICHAEL SUE / THE ADVOCATE
Handling the players — Athletic trainer Brian Powelson (left) checks the pain in Comet shortstop Peter Fredzess-Lucas’s elbow on Monday in the training room.
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B
Student athletes need to take more precaution before playing sports.
STAFF WRITER
will receive training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid training through Red Cross, Athletic Director John Wade said. Athletic trainer Brian Powelson said he is personally required to handle any injuries during athletic events and can provide crutches, ice packs, tape and slings, along with other basic first aid necessities. “Anything for acute injuries,” Powelson said. “Having someone there to take care of that is definitely a plus.”
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edit orial
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2 THE ADVOCATE Quotable “Journalists who disregard normal moral sense in pursuit of a story give our profession a bad name.” James Taranto, editor www.opinionjournal.com, 2001 Holly Pablo editor-in-chief Sam Attal associate editor Asia Camagong associate editor Alec Surmani associate editor Cassandra Juniel spotlight editor Diana Reyes Lauren Shiraishi opinion editors Dariush Azmoudeh Malcolm Lastra sports editors Lamar James news editor Brent Bainto social media editor Erik Verduzco photo editor Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Lissette Alvarez Mairat Assefa Alison Calais Tristin Cooper Tanisha Frazier Hilberth Diaz Ibarra Cassidy Gooding Marjorie Riformo Alexandra Waite Luis Zuniga Staff photographers Kevin Chourarath George Morin Joe Phutiyotin Raul Reyes Ricardo Sanchez Christian Soto Michael Sue Desmond Sylva Roman Young Staff illustrators James Heck Cody McFarland Joel Ode Honors ACP National Newspaper Pacemaker Award 1990, 1994, 1997,1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 CNPA Better Newspaper Contest 1st Place Award 1970, 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 JACC Pacesetter Award 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 Member Associated Collegiate Press California Newspaper Publishers Association Journalism Association of Community Colleges How to reach us Phone: 510.235.7800 ext. 4315 Fax: 510.235.NEWS E-mail: advocate@ contracosta.edu or letters.advocate@ gmail.com Editorial policy Columns and editorial cartoons are the opinion of individual writers and artists and not that of The Advocate. Editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board, which is made up of student editors.
OPINION
l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
WEDNESDAY, MARCH. 3, 2010 VOL. 94, NO. 15 ●
Editorial Improving athletics Better safety measures needed for team sports
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henever a player collapses on the field, court or diamond, there is a moment of fear while waiting for them to rise to their feet. As fellow athletes show their respect by kneeling down and praying for the well-being of their teammate or opponent, the major question on everyone’s mind is whether or not the person is seriously injured. Currently, there are no state laws regulating athletic safety in California community colleges. Decidedly so, those who play sports are presumed to know the risks when trying out for a spot on the team. Yet, there is still haziness as to who is truly responsible for ensuring that the players are in viable shape to land the victory. In addition to conditioning with the prospective team members, it is necessary for all players to pass a physical examination before tryouts to show that they are healthy enough to participate in the strenuous sporting activities. At Contra Costa College, the athletic safety precautions seem to rest on the shoulders of athletic trainer Brian Powelson. Throughout the entire year, he is the chief facilitator, ensuring that the players receive proper care. Whenever there is a game on campus, Powelson is sitting on the sidelines, ready to assist when a player is substituted out due to pain, or if a referee signals that a player needs to be attended to on the field. Off the field, there is almost always a line of players waiting to be seen in the training room. While he has built relationships with the students and has become the go-to person for sports-related maladies, it is impossible for one person to handle the full responsibility for the students’ health, especially when multiple games and practices happen simultaneously. Though the presumptuous solution would suggest that more athletic trainers are needed to address potential injuries, trainers cannot alleviate serious health risks, such as undiagnosed cardiac conditions. For example, during separate incidences at El Cerrito High School and El Sobrante’s Calvary Christian School last month, two high school athletes collapsed while competing in basketball, resulting in the death of one player. If these students were required to take a proper electrocardiography (EKG) scan prior to participating, maybe these injuries could have been prevented. As an EKG scan is recommended yearly but not required, students must take it upon themselves to seek these preventative measures. Young athletes may think that they can withstand just about anything that comes their way, but to be truly prepared for the game, they need to put more consideration into their personal safety.
JAMES HECK / THE ADVOCATE
■ Motivation
Imperfect role models a source of guidance
H
ow many of us as young children have found ourselves chanting the line “I want to be just like…when I grow up…” over and over again to our friends and family in our footie pajamas? Even as adults, we still have that one person we put on a pedestal. Role models are people who know who they are and are not afraid to be themselves. They encourage and inspire people who need a good example of the paths they decide to take in life. Role models can be anyone positive or negative in your life. During my teenybopper days, my role model was Britney Spears. She had it all — beauty, fame and fortune. I used to leave the house in pigtails every day after the “Hit Me Baby One More Time” video came out. I wanted to look and be exactly like her, because I thought she was perfect. Growing up, I slowly began to realize that role models are not always perfect. They do not need to have the perfect body or the latest trends, and they certainly do not have to have fame or glory. It is what they brought to the table that made them role models to begin with. My role models at the moment are Salma Hayek and America Ferrera. I have enjoyed watching their shows and films for a couple years now. I love the fact that they are not the stereotypical thin, over-the-top Hollywood starlets we are so accustomed to.
its questionable behavior on the ice during its victory celebration. The players were caught drinking champagne and smoking cigars. One of the players, MariePhilip Poulin, was not old enough to legally drink in They seem like the kind of British Columbia, where women I would talk to every the drinking age is 19. The day. Unlike other successful team regrets that its gold actresses, both women still medal celebration may have remain grounded and have caused the international and not let their fame get in the Canadian Olympic commitway of being who they are. tees any embarrassment and Tiger Woods, one of the apologized for it. most successful golfers of A lot of people were our time, was the ideal role appalled by their behavmodel. ior, especially the Olympic He had won countless community. It felt that their championships and achieved behavior was racy and unlady-like. I would not conthree Grand Slam wins. done their behavior, but I Woods also had a picturwould not consider them bad esque family life. There was not a man alive role models. After the story broke out, who did not want be in his people paid more attention golf shoes. to their partying habits than But all of sudden, he lost their victory. all his endorsement deals Despite their bad judgbecause of his indiscretions. ment, I still consider those He is no longer considered on the Canadian women’s the “wholesome family hockey team great role modman.” els for young girls. The public seems to These young women have forgotten all about his worked so hard to get to accomplishments and are where they are at and to have focused more on the misthem being brought down takes he has made. He may have failed in his like this is just disappointing. It is really up to an indipersonal life, but professionally Woods is still a success. vidual to decide what path he or she should take. Society is still stuck on We do not necessarily the “cookie-cutter” image of have to follow in our role what a role should be. It is almost as if they are pressur- model’s footsteps. They are ing them to be perfect all the simply there to motivate and time. If a role model makes a guide us. mistake, it is blasphemy. Lissette Alvarez is a staff The Canadian women’s writer for The Advocate. hockey team, which won the Olympic gold medal last Contact her at lalvarez. advocate@gmail.com. week, was scrutinized for
lissettealvarez
CampusComment
How often do you eat at the Three Seasons Restaurant?
“Last year I went all the time, but I haven’t gone this semester. But I can’t wait to go, the food is really good.” Ashlee Dye undecided
LAMAR JAMES / THE ADVOCATE
“I don’t ever go. I don’t like how the food tastes.”
“I go probably three to four times a month. They have good food.”
Chanteria Conley
Charmain Calhoun-King
administration of justice
business management
“I used to go all the time, every morning for breakfast, but I haven’t been at all this semester.” Lashara Johnson psychology
“I never had any money to go, so I haven’t gone yet.”
“I haven’t had time to do (eat there) with a full load and football practice.”
Sarah Nicholls communications
Tevita Feao
sports medicine
CAMPUS BEAT accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE
Receive breaking news and updates by following The Advocate’s Twitter account, AccentAdvocate.
Newsline ■ WORKSHOPS
Event seeks free money EOPS will be holding a workshop geared toward helping students complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Thursday from 57 p.m. in the assessment center. All students are encouraged and welcome to attend.
■ DRAMA
Richmond turns magical The drama department has produced an adaptation of “The Wiz.” The opening night of the musical on Thursday starts with a gala dinner at 6 p.m. in the Three Seasons Restaurant. Dinner and show tickets are $35. The production will run for four nights, Thursday through Sunday. Tickets are $10 for general admission and the performance starts at 8 p.m. in the Knox Center.
■ FUNDRAISER
Library sale needs help The Friends of the Library is requesting donations of books, music and videos for a fundraiser sale scheduled for May 10-13 in the Library and Learning Resource Center. Donations can be dropped off at the circulation desk from March 1 through April 30.
■ FYE
Group to talk relationships The ASU is hosting a Students Living Well workshop today about relationship violence. The event will be held from 12:30-2 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Guests include Rev. Andre Shumake Sr. and Jovanka Beckles.
CrimeWatch Thursday, Feb. 18 A victim reported that he parked his vehicle on campus and upon his return, the left side of his vehicle was damaged. Unknown suspects broke into a victim’s vehicle on Castro Street and took personal items. Friday, Feb. 19 An officer responded to a medical report in the Applied Arts Building. Vandalism was reported in the Library and Learning Resource Center. Saturday, Feb. 20 A suspect was arrested for public intoxication. Tuesday, Feb. 23 Unknown suspects vandalized the women’s rest room in the Applied Arts Building. Two male suspects were arrested for drinking on campus.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE
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Texting | Key to announcing safety hazards ing telephone ‘trees,’ blast emails, an alert bulletin page on our district Web site, person-to-person and our 4CD Alert System.” Currently, CCC uses the 4CD Alert System established in 2009, which utilizes audible alert sirens to alert the public to a life-threatening hazard or other local emergencies. The new text messaging system soon to be used will be with the same company, 4CD, and is currently in place, with a roll out to come soon, Terstegge said. “It is in its final stage of testing,” he said. “We are still making changes and will be continuing to make them over the next few weeks as we prepare for a full release of the system to the public.” It is a districtwide system that will be used by CCC and its sister colleges. Some students who use text messaging believe in its
use as a means of emergency communication. “I send and receive lots of text messages and feel that text messaging students in an emergency is a great idea. People will be informed all around the campus,” Middle College High School student Briana Partee said. According to www.txtlaunchpad.com, one company that offers service to businesses for mass text messaging, said that 84 percent of Americans keep their cell phones turned on and with them 24 hours per day and that 94 percent of text messages are opened and read immediately. With many schools and colleges being subjected to random shootings on their campuses over the past several years, a key to any communication at any institution is to be prepared, Police Services Chief Charles Gibson said. “Our plan is to be pre-
ASU
Umoja | African-American studies
■ FROM: Page 1
■ FROM: Page 1
He was the senator for veterans affairs and the founding president of the Veterans Club. Camacho is now the ASU vice president of clubs, elected for his extensive experience and organizational skills. “Joseph has a knack (for) bringing people together and is very organized,” former Vice President of Clubs Henry Parker said. “The board nominated people who can get the group working for a common goal.” Camacho said he tries to make sure the events run smoothly and that the clubs have the resources they need. He has attended events concerning the ASU, learning how to hold meetings and familiarizing himself with the requirements to run campus events. “I sat in an (Inter-Club Council) meeting and learned how to run meetings,” Camacho said, “and to see how each (ASU) position is dependent on each other.” One of his goals is to have the ASU branch out to faculty members, possibly drafting resolutions with faculty assistance. The new vice president of ambassadors, Rochanda Burton, was able to earn her role by having a 3.0 grade point average and for acting as a senator last semester, she said. Burton is currently searching for new ambassadors. She decided to take the opportunity this semester to become a vice president for the ASU because she wanted to make a noticeable difference on campus before she transfers to a university, Burton said. Pedro Araujo was elected to be the organization’s parliamentarian, because he is detail-oriented and was able to learn and ensure procedures during meetings, he said. Araujo showed a lot of initiative and was very successful at carrying out his responsibilities, Bautista said. As for treasurer, the ASU board needed someone who had the motivation and interest to handle the finances, she said. Robin Lopez, who is also a member of the Center for Science Excellence program, was able to fill that position, since he was comfortable with dealing with subjects like mathematics and finances. This semester, the expanding crop of new leaders are trying a fresh process of communicating with campus clubs and faculty advisers through e-mail or any other possible way they can to get their message across to a large number of people in a speedy and efficient manner, Lopez said.
Wednesday, Feb. 24 An officer responded to a medical report. A victim reported that his vehicle was broken into on Contact Lissette campus. Alvarez at lalvarez. advocate@gmail.com. —Alexandra Waite
■ FROM: Page 1
pared should a situation come about,” he said. “According to The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, codified at 20 USC 1092 (f) J, we are required to have a system in place.” Originally known as the “Campus Security Act,” the landmark federal law requires colleges and universities across the United States to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. The act was established by the parents of 19-year-old Jeanne Ann Clery, who was raped and murdered while sleeping in her residence hall on April 5, 1986. Students had not been informed about 38 violent crimes on their daughter’s campus in the three years before her murder. One college utilizing another system by “AlertU,” is Napa Valley College. They
member of Umoja. Once enrolled, they meet with a counselor twice during the semester to establish and ensure they keep up with their individual Student Educational Plans, Tribble said. She is a believer in the potential of learning communities, due to study conclusions that students do better when they take classes as a group and receive support from staff members. The program’s curriculum focuses on two subjects: English and psychology, which are taught by Philips and English professor Wendall Douglas. These courses are what Philips referred to as the “gatekeepers” to transfer and obtaining an associate degree. First-semester Umoja students take English 139 and Psychology of Individual and Group Behavior, and those in their second semester take English 142B and Cultural and Ethnicity in Social Psychology. Unlike traditional English classes, the literature used in the Umoja courses all have an African-American focus to make the material more relatable and relevant to students, Tribble said. They also become familiar with the history and learn phrases in Swahili, she said.
deployed their system in July 2007, Police Chief Ken Arnold said, and in April 2009, had the opportunity to use it. “We learned that preparing to meet the thuggish realities of today’s world pays off,” Arnold said. Two men robbed an individual outside the West America Bank, located near the Napa campus. Witnesses reported seeing the suspect leave the area in a white sport utility vehicle, which was observed entering the campus. Witnesses reported seeing one of the suspects exiting the vehicle and walking toward the campus, Arnold said. While the officers were going building-to-building, emergency e-mails and text messages were sent to staff and students, informing them of what was going on. “Faculty and staff responded well to the lock-
down of the campus,” Arnold said. He said the downside to a system like this is that it is an “opt-in” system, meaning people have to sign up. Their average sign-up rate is only 10-30 percent of student population, Arnold said. Individuals who do not use text messaging often, however, still appreciate the idea of being contacted through text messaging in the case of an emergency because of its accelerated transmission. “I think it would be great, as I have an emergency alert system for my home, (and) it would be good to have one here at the school,” MCHS instructor Steve Hoffman said. “I do not use text messaging a lot, but I know this notification will get information out quicker.” Contact Cassandra Juniel at cjuniel.advocate@gmail. com.
As a result of taking the same class- Natural, Social and Applied Sciences es together, students develop a sense of Division Dean Terence Elliott and camaraderie and college President closeness to their McKinley Williams. “We would love to Umoja peers. “I want students “You get to to realize that edusee all students be know each other cation is one of the more successful. (To most important things through group and class work, and in their lives, and that you learn that we accomplish this), they they should strive to be all make a differ- need to have the right the best that they can ence in the comWilliams said. skills and motivation be,”Elliott munity,” student said he conLiz Smith said. “I and that’s why we’re siders himself to be a “village elder” and is don’t even think here.” about the (acaalways ready to prodemic) benefits.” vide those in Umoja Keeping the with words of encourgoal of student agement and support. “We would love success in mind, the staff and facto see all students ulty members be more successinvolved with the ful,” Elliott said. “(To accomplish this), they Umoja Learning Village serve as need to have the right mentors for the skills and motivation Terence Elliott, students, Tribble and that’s why we’re Natural, Social, and Applied Sciences Division dean said. here.” Guest speakC o n t a c t ers have included influential African-American leaders Lauren Shiraishi at lshiraishi. throughout the community, including advocate@gmail.com.
Safety | Lacking ‘proper treatment’ ■ FROM: Page 1
There have been so many injuries among districts, even deaths, and the school has to step back and ask itself, “Are we really prepared?” Athletic Equipment Manager Benny Barnes said. There are no real laws for athletic safety in community colleges, but all the schools have an athletic trainer, Wade said. Physical education professor Jim Ulversoy puts on CPR and first aid training seminars for coaches and teachers. “I have (trained) most of the coaches,” Ulversoy said. “I have two more coaches I need to train within the next couple weeks for spring.” CPR requires doing chest compressions to push blood from the heart to the brain. If the blood is not pushed to the brain soon enough, the individual could acquire brain damage and die. “As far as being prepared, we hope to know the players’ medical history, including their pre-existing conditions,” Wade said. “A lot of times we don’t know about their condition. That’s when medical emergencies happen.” Ulversoy said he thinks every year athletes should have an electrocardiography (EKG) scan, which would show if they had a heart problem. Some people go through life without knowing they have heart problems until something happens, like the players that collapsed in the high school districts, he said. Student-athletes believe conditioning and stretching before a game are the best ways to safely prepare. “All you can really do is stretch and don’t do anything too quickly,” softball player Tori Takahashi said. “We
have a really good trainer, The campus should know and we’re all comfortable the training room is the only going to medical him.” station Barnes “Here, if athletes get an the colsaid many lege has, injury, they take time he times the said. cause of off. They don’t get the Wade major injusaid the ries stems proper treatment, then c o l l eg e from ath- play and get hurt even has a lot letes not of safety worse.” receiving m e a proper sures in Benny Barnes, treatment. place, athletic equipment manager “ I t ’s however, such a big such as difference from four-year a full-time trainer, campus schools with trainers every- police and Doctors Medical where,” Barnes said. “Here, Center being close. if athletes get an injury, they During football games, take time off. They don’t the college has an ambulance get the proper treatment, and doctor on-site. For other then play and get hurt even sports games, they would worse.” only be on call in case of an ADVERTISEMENT
emergency, Powelson said. “For away games, I will travel with football, but when other teams travel, the athletic trainer at that school would take care of those injuries,” he said. In the event of a heartrelated injury, an automated external defibrillator (AED), located in the Gym Annex Building, could be used to administer a shock to start the heart. The AED has never been used, but all physical education instructors have been taught to use it, Barnes said. Wade said, “It can be taken to the Fitness Center or out on the fields on a dayto-day basis, if needed.” Contact Alexandra Waite at awaite.advocate@gmail.
4 THE ADVOCATE
l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
CAMPUS BEAT
Group demands end to violence Panelists fed up, say ‘enough is enough’ By Asia Camagong ASSOCIATE EDITOR
As violence continues to rear its ugly head within the city of Richmond, some in the community are fed up and putting their foot down, crying out that enough is enough. The ASU hosted a Fireside Chat, titled “Richmond Church Shooting: Enough is Enough,” in the Fireside Room on Feb. 23 to discuss individual and organizational efforts for violence prevention in response to the brutality emerging in the community. “It takes a community to show that the consciousness of Richmond is a consciousness of peace,” Mayor Gayle McLaughlin said in a speech at the event. After the discussion, a tree was planted in the campus Peace Grove in memory of Kyle Bratton, a Contra Costa College student who was shot and killed on Dec. 14 in Richmond. “(The event) was building a bridge with the community and trying to help come to a solution on trying to help the community stop the violence,” ASU President Kristina Bautista said. Various attendants were present, including guest panelists McLaughlin, Student Life Director Jennifer Ounjian, Richmond City Councilman Nat Bates, early childhood education department Chairwoman Intisar Shareef and Richmond Improvement Association President Andre Shumake Sr. The chat, organized by Student Life Center Event Coordinator Henry Parker, touched upon seeking organizations to better unify the community. “If we all do something, then we can turn this cycle of violence around,” sociology department Chairman J. Vern Cromartie said. Outreach programs and support services available throughout the city as well as on the college campus were brought to light, showing more ways to become civically involved. At the panel, Ounjian voiced the benefits of participating in campus services such as the Puente Program, Center for Science Excellence, Black Student Union and cam-
pus counseling sessions to better provide students a sense of support and purpose. Cromartie said, “The time has come for us to link these programs at the college to people in the community who are vulnerable.” With representatives from different agencies such as the Richmond Youth Student Empowerment (RYSE) Center and the Richmond Youth Academy in the room, attendants were also present to introduce local support groups readily available to help. Olajuwon Thornton, entertainment director for the Bay Area Stop Hating Movement, spoke about how the Richmond Youth Academy (RYA) aims to teach young adults the pathways toward community service, self-discipline and academic achievement. “(Youth) want the help and they want the love,” Thornton said. “(We’ve got to) show them there’s more to life than just standing in the corner and that (they) can achieve this (if they) just go for it.” He also discussed the importance of people stepping outside of their environment as a means of building better character. Parker said, “People have to get outside their safety and comfort zone, and (they) have to get out and really get involved.” On top of seeking involvement and participation within the community to stop violence, the seminar touched bases with the preventative measure of conditioning oneself by way of changing behavior and undergoing grief counseling. Dr. Shareef stressed the importance of stopping violence within the household, encouraging a change in monitoring one’s thoughts to produce positive feelings. Parker said, “A lot of people see (violence) in their homes and (when they) don’t see a person calming down, (it consequently) goes from bad to worse in an instant.” Rev. Shumake agreed, adding that grief counseling will allow community members to learn ways to deal with anger and rage, two factors leading to territorial and regional violence in the city. Cromartie said, “You may not be the change in the world, but you can change yourself.” Parker said the plans to organize the seminar branched from two recent shootings occurring in Richmond, one of which resulted in the death of a pregnant woman shot in her car while in the Iron Triangle
GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE
Counting the ways — Rev. Andre Shumake Sr., Richmond Improvement Association president, names off different ways to stop violence in the community at the Fireside Chat held in the Fireside Room on Feb. 23. neighborhood on Feb. 10. The second occurrence, which the seminar was named after, happened on Feb. 14 after three men opened fire during a service at the New Gethsemane Church of God in Christ. “We live in a very violent society,” Cromartie said. “(We could) turn this around by helping people discover their true self consciousness.” A follow-up chat about violence in relationships will be held today in the Fireside
Room from 12:30-2 p.m., Parker said. “(It’s good to) get youths early in order to plan out better futures for them,” Richmond Police Commissioner volunteer Glenn Stephenson said. “It’s important that even though not everyone came, that they can spread (this information) to those that didn’t.” Contact Asia Camagong at acamagong. advocate@gmail.com
Report reveals improvements, struggles By Alexandra Waite STAFF WRITER
With the spring semester under way, the second draft of a report that calculates the educational effectiveness of community colleges shows improvements in almost all areas for Contra Costa College. The January/February 2010 draft of the Accountability Reporting for the Community Colleges (ARCC) is the last draft of the report before the final version is released later this month and includes data for the peer college groups. “I was afraid about the (ARCC) before we received the results, because our resources had been
cut,” Senior Dean of Research Timothy Clow said. “When I got the report, I was pleased.” One of the most notable increases is the rise in English as a second language (ESL) improvement rates, moving up nearly 10 percent in 2008-09 from the previous year. Along with the ESL improvement rate, the student progress and achievement rate rose from 47.5 percent in 2007-08 to 48.3 percent in the next year. In the report, peer grouping refers to classifying and comparing community colleges that resemble each other in performance indicators, such as student progress and achievement rate, persistence rate, and percent of students who earned ADVERTISEMENT
at least 30 units. This college would not be grouped with large colleges, but with urban areas with similar economic histories, Dr. Clow said. President McKinley Williams said that for CCC’s peer group, it is in the middle or upper half. “We are doing pretty good compared to other colleges,” he said. The 2010 report contains figures from the 2008-09 academic year, and the final version of the report will include each college’s self-assessment. The only areas in which CCC was below average in its peer group were improvement rates for credit basic skills courses by almost 2 percent. “Because the (ARCC) is so gen-
eral, it doesn’t specifically explain why we’re low, so we have to go in and analyze the reasons behind it,” Williams said. Clow said the general idea is that CCC continues to improve, even with a reduction in resource, and that there is a huge level of commitment at this campus. The percent of first-time students who earned at least 30 units went from 67.3 percent in 2007-08 to 69.5 percent the following year. “We’ve made progress,” Vice President Carol Maga said. “It’s nice to feel like we’re accomplishing things.” The ARCC was created in 2004 to meet a legislative requirement established in Assembly Bill 1417.
Maga said, “They want to report students’ general success. (The ARCC figures) measure our basic goals.” The other side of the ARCC data is the reasons behind the numbers. They are not always low because students are doing poorly, but also because of financial reasons, Williams said. Clow said that some say community colleges are only doing well because of the economy, but he thinks it is also because they are engaging students more. “There’s always a bottom line,” Clow said. “That’s what this is.” Contact Alexandra Waite at awaite.advocate@gmail.com
Commission grants total accreditation By Asia Camagong ASSOCIATE EDITOR
After submitting a follow-up report in October 2009, the college has been granted full accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC). As a result, courses at Contra Costa College will continue to be transferable to four-year universities. “Accreditation means (being allowed) to offer credit that meets certain standards so students can have the ability to transfer,” Vice President Carol Maga said. In order to receive full accreditation, the college must meet certain standards made by the commission regarding student learning programs, support services, resources and leadership and governance. “If you don’t get your accreditation, people question if you have an institution that is up to a standard,” President McKinley Williams said.
The follow-up report featured updates on recommended changes made by the commission team in its visit in October 2008, listing the development of a timeline for student learning outcomes (SLOs) and plans for a district allocation model, Williams said. According to the followup report, found on the CCC Web site, the SLO timeline will create a “cycle of development, assessment, evaluation and improvement” areas needing improvement for student learning as well as instructional effectiveness. Maga said by implementing the assessment now and locating the areas needing improvement, actions can be made by 2012. “(The commission) believes the only way (to check if) colleges are healthy is to do that by assessment,” Maga said. Another follow-up outlining the district allocation model is due Oct. 15, she said. The allocation model will outline the revenue divided
amongst all the colleges within the district, she said. “(It will) correlate with the way we are handling our budget and provide colleges with autonomy and management of their own funds,” Maga said. The district will be responsible over the model and will insert the update in each of the colleges’ followup reports. Colleges are visited by the ACCJC every six years and must undergo preparations for self-study assessments, as well as a visit from team members before the submission of a detailed follow-up report. “It’s always a huge amount of work,” Maga said. Yet, the college remains delighted by the product of their work. “It was a collaborative effort among the constituent groups,” Classified Senate President Mercy Pono said. Contact Asia Camagong at acamagong. advocate@gmail.com
CAMPUS BEAT
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE
Incentive urges early retirements Medical benefits set in agreement By Lauren Shiraishi OPINION EDITOR
As a way to cut down on costs, the district and United Faculty came to an agreement that provides eligible full-time employees with an incentive to retire early. The medical benefits for retiring employees are based on a point system, Vice Chancellor of Human Resources Gene Huff said. Points are awarded based on age and years of service to the district, he said. A 60-year-old employee with 20 years of service will have accumulated 80 points, which is equivalent to full benefits. The incentive can provide up to
six points for an employee, Huff said. Depending on how many points one has acquired, the district will pay for either part or all of the retiree’s medical benefits. If an employee has 80 points, they will receive full-benefit premium costs for life, Huff said. The incentive reduces the 10 years service requirement to seven years, he said. Members of the UF and the district negotiated and signed the agreement in December 2009. Employees were then given until Jan. 29 to turn in their retirement requests, Huff said. For 2010, five faculty members, seven classified employees and six management employees were approved districtwide. Under the conditions of the incentive, employees must retire
Union offers chance
between March 1 and June 30, we could potentially fill five of the vacancies at a lower cost, or not fill Huff said. One of the retirees is culinary them at all,” Huff said. arts instructional U n i t e d assistant Joyce Faculty President Edwards, who “If we have 10 vacant Jeffrey Michels the incentive has worked at positions, we could said Contra Costa is good, because College for 12 some get to retire potentially fill five years. She said and it also of the vacancies at a early, she is looking saves the district forward to retire- lower cost, or not fill some money. ment, although “On the other them at all.” she will miss the hand, we’re very students and her concerned about Gene Huff, fellow staffers losing full-timvice chancellor of human resources ers,” he said. on campus. He said the “It’s a mixed goal behind the incentive was to blessing.” generate retirements at the colThe district currently has a low leges and the district so some of the ratio of full- to part-time faculty, full-time paying positions would Dr. Michels said. As the qualifybecome vacant. ing employees for the retirement “If we have 10 vacant positions, incentive must be full-timers, their
5
retirements will further increase the gap. Still, the UF remains hopeful that more full-timers will eventually be hired to replace those who retire. “Just because the district may not replace (the full-timers) this year, doesn’t mean they won’t replace them next year,” Michels said. A similar incentive was offered in 2004, when the district was going through financial difficulty. “We’re all looking at budget reductions, and (the incentive) is one way of reduction,” Huff said. Michels agreed that the incentive was an easier way to vacate full-time positions without resorting to layoffs. Contact Lauren Shiraishi at lshiraishi.advocate@gmail.com.
Taxes boost school funds
MUTUAL BENEFIT
Deal broadens transfer options By Marjorie Riformo STAFF WRITER
With the financial deficits that public institutions nationwide are facing, students at all different levels are likely to seek alternatives and strong complements to their academic careers. Brandman University and Contra Costa College have joined together as a union to provide students the Early Advantage Partnership Agreement (EAPA) that enhances the transfer process between the two colleges with absolute support and ensured counseling, Brandman University Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Gary Brahm said, The private organization, previously known as Chapman University, held a meeting with CCC to sign a transfer agreement that will open quality opportunities to the community. The event took place at the Fireside Room on Feb. 9. The agreement resolves any complication in making transitions an easier process, CCC President McKinley Williams said. This agreement makes the transfer process easier if “students can get a head start on what it takes to get to the next level,” he said. Community college students who attained 12 transferable units with at least a 2.0 grade point average can sign an early-admission agreement with the non-profit institution. “We want to make sure that students can receive a quality education and all the help they need to be successful,” Brahm said. Brandman University campuses are located on military bases throughout California and Washington. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates, teaching credentials, extended education programs online and at campuses. CCC students will be able to enroll in the
By Lamar James NEWS EDITOR
CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE
Sealed with a promise — Contra Costa College President McKinley Williams (left) and Brandman University Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Gary Brahm come together to solidify an early-admission agreement for transfer students on Feb. 9 at the Fireside Room. program in the Counseling Office. Brahm explained that the university’s administration wants to focus on the tradition, values and importance of their students’ success, while at the same time having the flexibility of being responsive to their needs. Students will have access to features such as recommended services, counsel sessions, academic catalogs, educational strategy and transfer credit through their student portal, WebAdvisor, in addition to embodied career counseling while
attending a community college and taking transferable coursework, Brahm said. Once they have signed the agreement, Brandman will agree to track the students on how to integrate them through the program, Brahm said. CCC agreed to promote the transfer process and the early advantage program for the students as well, Williams said. “I’m hoping that when students come onto the Contra Costa College campus and make that
decision, that they are going to articulate to Brandman,” he said. “It will be as though they just stepped off one curb and onto the next.” Matriculation Coordinator Kenyetta Tribble agreed. “This agreement will give students the opportunity to transfer into a four-year college and also have a variety of options to dynamic education,” Tribble said. Contact Marjorie Riformo at mriformo.advocate@gmail.com.
Bill suggests diversion of oil money By Lauren Shiraishi OPINION EDITOR
With the persistent threats of budget cuts and reductions looming overhead, supporters of higher education are constantly on the search for new sources of funding. One possible source came in the form of an assembly bill. Although AB 656, created by Assemblyman Alberto Torrico (D-Newark), failed to receive the two-thirds vote necessary to be passed by the State Assembly on Jan. 21, it passed the Assembly Floor on Jan. 27. If passed, AB 656 would place a 12.5 percent severance tax on major oil companies. According to a fact sheet on AB 656, the revenue would be used to create the California Higher Education Endowment Corporation. “Education has to be a priority,” Torrico said. “We spend more money on prisons than colleges, which is unacceptable. We should be opening doors, not closing them.” Originally, the tax was set at 9.9 percent, and 60 percent of the revenue would be distributed to CSUs, while 30 percent would go to the UCs and 10 percent to community colleges. On Jan. 25, the tax was amended to 12.5
percent, dividing the revenue so that the CSUs would receive 50 percent, and 25 percent each would be allocated to UCs and community colleges. Still, many community college supporters were disappointed. “We’re pleased that the bill was introduced, but we wanted a higher percent (of the revenue),” Faculty Association of California Community Colleges Director Jonathan Lightman said. “We feel that (community college) students need at least 40 percent, because we have (a larger number of) students.” Currently, California is the only oil-producing state in the nation that lacks a natural gas severance tax. Contra Costa College economics professor Wendy Williams said she supports the idea of a severance tax. She compared AB 656 to a proposition on the 2006 ballot, which would have also placed a tax on oil companies. The revenue would have been used to fund alternative energy rather than higher education. Proposition 87 failed to pass, due to scare tactics from oil companies, Williams said. Supporters of AB 656, however, are continuing their search for alternative solutions. California Faculty Association communications specialist Brian Ferguson said, “We are
continuing to work with education supporters throughout California to find ways to better fund higher education.” Ferguson said that participation from those who would be directly affected, including students, faculty and staff, is also important. It is crucial that all three segments (community colleges, CSUs and UCs) work together, he said. District Student Trustee Christina Cannon is currently in the process of arranging for Torrico to speak to students at CCC on the importance of the bill. She also plans to have other representatives speak at Diablo Valley College and Los Medanos College, she said. “AB 656 is one of the few solutions I’ve heard of that will help us get out of the budget crisis,” Cannon said. In the meantime, adequate funding for higher education remains a problem. “We’re cutting even further from health care and social services,” Lightman said. “It’s beyond the point of reducing, at a point where we’re amputating.” Contact Lauren Shiraishi at lshiraishi. advocate@gmail.com.
Discounts on tax preparation will soon be available to anyone attending or working at the college, courtesy of Fiducial, a tax, bookkeeping, payroll and business-consulting firm. Navjeet Chahal, the owner of the tax preparation business, is an alumnus of Contra Costa College who came up with the idea. “(Chahal) stayed in touch with the college over the years. He always wanted to help,” Senior Fo u n d a t i o n Director Linda Cherry said. Chahal is teaming up with the college Chahal Foundation to The former raise money in Contra Costa the wake of a College budget deficit. student has He came up agreed to with the idea offer stuto charge a dis- dents and count and donate employees a the money that discounted would normal- price on tax ly be charged preparations. for services All proceeds to the college will benefit F o u n d a t i o n , the college. Cherry said. “I was looking for a place to do my taxes, but instead of going to pay all the money to someone else, I can go get a discount and help raise money to benefit the college,” student Johnathan Amey said. There are coupons hanging on bulletin boards all around campus that students can redeem for tax preparation discounts, Cherry said. Individuals can take the coupons to the Fiducial firm location at 3220 Blume Drive Suite 100 in Richmond and identify themselves as a CCC student, faculty or staff member in order to get the discount. Chahal graduated from CCC and transferred to UC Berkeley. Instead of deciding on Berkeley as the college he would give back to, he chose CCC as the beneficiary, Cherry said. Chahal said, “I wanted to give back to CCC because it really gave me a chance to reach my goal. Without CCC, I would not be in the position that I am in.” Amey said Chahal shows that someone in a great position can still have the compassion to help other people succeed. This is the kind of idea that other businesses should try to replicate, Cherry said. It could benefit the college and the community as a whole, she said. Chahal said he is looking forward to working with the college and its population. “Because I went to this college, I have a connection to the college, and thought no better way to help out than to use skills learned that would be beneficial in the long run,” he said. “We are hoping that students take advantage of this offer.” Contact Lamar James at ljames. advocate@gmail.com.
6 THE ADVOCATE Unleashed
Movies
l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
SCENE
Vocal ‘Wiz’ a model of courage King’s mantra based on love By Holly Pablo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
This week: “Alice in Wonderland” (PG) “Brooklyn’ Finest” (R)
DVDs
New releases: “Where the Wild Things Are” (PG) “2012” (PG-13) “Ponyo” (G) “Gentlemen Broncos” (PG-13) “The Private Lives of Pippa Lee” (R)
CDs
Starring as the Cowardly Lion in the drama department’s adaptation of “The Wiz,” Dawaun King embodies the very courage that his character seeks during the trip to Oz. Whether the 27-year-old is at school, church, working with disabled students or spending time with family, King’s niche of selfless dedication to making others happy brings light to even the darkest of days. He will showcase the product of his recent undertaking, stage performing, as the King of the Jungle in “The Wiz” today through Sunday in the Knox Center at 8 p.m. “My general outlook on life is love, confidence and hope,” King said. “I try to give what I have to the world, to people I know and the people I meet.” Fittingly, King is currently in the process of finishing the prerequisites needed for Contra Costa College’s nursing program. His motivation for this career was born in 2008, after King nursed his father back to health from cancer. Almost simultaneously, his wife was diagnosed with mild gestational diabetes while pregnant with their daughter, Dorinda Karen King. Charmaine Calhoun-King said that in the face of those challenging moments, her husband displayed bravery and
RICARDO SANCHEZ / THE ADVOCATE
Lionhearted — Student Dawaun King practices his role as the Cowardly Lion in the Contra Costa College adaptation of “The Wiz” Thursday in the Knox Center. The production will make its premiere today in the same venue at 8 p.m. good faith in the way that he remained calm and continued being the encouraging person that everyone adores. The Richmond resident is employed full-time by the West Contra Costa Unified School District as a behavioral specialist and instructional aide at De Anza High School. He primarily cares for a student who has muscle dystrophy, helping him navigate and write assignments. Using comedy as his form of connecting with others, King
keeps a lighthearted attitude, always joking around and making people laugh. His funny personality will serve him well in this week’s drama production, CalhounKing said. Despite not having performed on stage since playing Audrey II in “The Little Shop of Horrors” at Richmond High School in 2000, King is very enthusiastic about his role. “When I decided to audition, I didn’t expect such a big role,” he said. “It’s an awesome
experience. It is coming along very nicely.” Along with acting and dancing, King will be performing songs for the crowd, including an individual number titled “Mean Ol’ Lion.” “He really was meant to play the role,” drama department Chairman and Director Clay David said. “It’s really nice to see a man not afraid to show an emotional side, having the courage to face life.” David said that King’s supContact Holly Pablo at portive inclinations, such as hpablo.advocate@gmail.com.
Painter exhibits abstract art New releases: Rogue Wave: “Permalight” Josh Wolf: “Jet Lag” Peter Gabriel: “Scratch My Back” Jamie Foxx: “Body” These New Puritans: “Hidden” Groove Armada: “Black Light” Jamie Cullum: “The Pursuit” Little Boots: “Hands”
Games
New releases: “Battlefield: Bad Company 2” (PS3/ XBOX360 — M) “Sonic Classic Collection” (DS — E) “Dante’s Inferno” (PSP — M) “MLB 10: The Show” (PS3/PSP — E) Editor’s note: This column lists popular new (and upcoming) releases for the week.
‘Meaningful symbols’ showcased in gallery By Alison Calais STAFF WRITER
According to Anne Austin, her 45 years of painting can be simplified into one all-encompassing representation — breaking patterns of habitual tendency with the absence of pattern entirely. Austin’s art gallery showing is being held in the Rhodes Gallery until March 19 and showcases 25 pieces of art in total, including 12 paintings and 13 screens. “It’s a wonderful show and it was wonderfully presented. The vibrancy of the paint and brush strokes (stood out to me),” digital photography professor Kevine Levine said. Austin’s art is primarily abstract, she said, featuring meaningful symbols such as
a bird or butterfly. “I thought my son, who passed away, may have been reincarnated as a fly, and that crept into my work,” Austin said of her painting “Small Fly.” Art professor Donna Fenstermaker said she liked the exhibit. “I just love showing the work of a midcareer artist,” she said. Student Rubi Juarez said the exhibit was “inspiring.” Austin graduated with a bachelor’s degree of fine arts and teaching credential from the California College of Art in Oakland. Since graduating, she has served as curator for the San Pablo Arts Gallery, taught at a children’s art studio in Alameda and led workshops focused on drawing, mosaics, cartoneria (Mexican papier-mâché) and Tibetan Thangka painting, Austin said. Though drawn to painting at a young age, she started painting seriously around age 15. Austin describes her art as “abstract
traveling as far as Antioch to give fellow cast members rides to and from rehearsal, is special to the production. It is a blessing for a teacher to see a group of such talent getting along and become a tight-knit family, he said. Tiffany Gaines, who is playing the good witch Glinda, said that of the short amount of time that she has known King, she can see that he is a very generous and kind person. “He always has a smile on his face, and I’ve never heard him say a negative thing, always positive,” Gaines said. “I can see that he’s a spiritual person.” Growing up with his two sisters in their mother’s singleparent home, King said that when life was tough, faith and God kept his family together. Currently, King serves as president and only man in his church’s Praise and Worship Team, Calhoun-King said, which aims to get the congregation excited during service. Children of all ages are naturally attracted to King. Whether they know him through church or family and friends, King easily builds strong relationships with them and treats them as if they were his own kids, Calhoun-King said. “He’s a happy-go-lucky person and always on the go. I’m the worrywart, but he has enough faith for the both of us,” she said. “There’s nothing that he can’t do. I don’t think he ever gets tired.”
and textural, with many uses of symbolism.” She draws much of her inspiration from her devout practice of Buddhism. Austin’s method for naming her art pieces, however, varies. Sometimes she names it after the first thing she thinks of while looking at the finished product, Austin said. For example, two abstract paintings bear the monikers “Left of Stereo” and “Right of Stereo,” which was where the paintings were placed in her studio, she said. Other times, her naming process is more personal, as in the case of her piece “Rough Road Ahead.” It is a screen painting with large blocks of color paying homage to movies of the 1960s, Austin said. “The best advice I can give a young artist is ‘do it because you have to,’” Austin said. “Art is like a drug for me. The worst way to create is to do it for the money.” Contact Alison Calais at acalais. advocate@gmail.com.
Patterns Who: Artist Anne Austin What: Abstract paintings presenting random concepts When: Monday through Friday Where: Rhodes Gallery in the Art Building Why: The exhibit allows visitors to gain insight and motivation from the work of a local artist. Gaining inspiration from her practice of Buddhism, Austin produces images of thoughtful content and symbolism.
‘Atlas’ tweaks contrasts By Alec Surmani ASSOCIATE EDITOR
There is something about certain people that makes nearly everything they do raise collective eyebrows. For these choice persons, even something as trivial as their trip to an antique store earlier in the day can be unexplainably captivating. Bradford Cox is one of these people. On the cover of his most recent album, “Logos,” Cox is shown naked from the waist up, his head a sphere of piercing white light. This image, coupled with the radiant arrangements, contrasted well with the songs’ often desolate lyrics and frail delivery. His performance at San Francisco’s Great American Music Hall Friday revealed a similar disparity. Playing under the name of his solo project, Atlas Sound, Cox sat shrouded in darkness with only shy lights outlining his shoulders and ski beanie, leaving the majority of his torso and face hidden throughout most of the
show. Sounds appeared to resonate from a seemingly hopeless abyss, his voice more like an upward call to those on the outer rim. Yet, the instant the last notes evaporated from the cozy two-story, Old West-themed venue and he began conversing with the audience, the torrent would stop. His jokes were funny, and his anecdotes about purchasing a novelty bat in a glass case were amusing. Most surprising, however, is just how well such shifts in atmosphere worked, to the point where the entire night simply felt like a warm experience connecting with a really laid-back and easygoing friend. The explanation for why the duality in Cox’s music is so appealing became apparent by the end of his encore set. This man is real. In an indie scene dominated by endless layers of calculated irony that everyone forgot what it means to be straightforward, lines like “we’ll die alone, together” tend to hit that much harder. He’s not afraid to have the “same dreams” as his
lover or admit that he is “waiting to be changed.” Part of the reason for this sense of unmitigated honesty can be attributed to Cox’s confession that he rarely writes down songs for the Atlas Sound project. He just plays them. Consequently, they feel as if they radiate directly from his eventreview being and thus command much greater “Atlas Sound power to Live” affect. ★★★★★ The only Headliner: Atlas filters Cox Sound permitted Where: The Great American Music Friday eveHall ning were the effects pedals at his feet. They turned the delicate vibrations of his acoustic guitar into warm, bulbous, hypnotic undulations that pushed the cool waves emitting from the smoke machine above him toward the crowd. Currents collided and everyone was sucked in. They were then able to see why the carefreeskipping-on-the-sidewalk organ riff and musings on growing up of single “Walkabout” were
SPECIAL TO / THE ADVOCATE
Good Vibrations — Bradford Cox, playing under the name Atlas Sound, put on a hypnotic, yet intimate set at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco Friday.
merely covering up its final refrain: “Forget the things you’ve left behind/ Through looking back you may go blind.” Such versatility rooted in unfailing individuality is what made the performance and the musician so enthralling. Cox not only finds
strength in the process of articulating where he has been, he helps to understand why, regardless of how the past is defined, it’s OK to be excited about the future. Contact Alec Surmani at asurmani.advocate@gmail. com.
SPORTS
tristincooper
Halfbacks unwanted due to age
H
ow old is too old to be a professional athlete these days? When are athletes at or past their prime? LaDainian Tomlinson of the San Diego Chargers and Brian Westbrook of the Philadelphia Eagles were recently released by their respective teams. They were told it was not about money or health. I think their teams believe they are too old. They do not think the two players have anything left in the tank or juice in their legs. They are wrong. Yes, both players struggled with injuries a year ago, but that is the game of football. Though, maybe it is different with running backs, since Brett Favre is 40, and he retires and comes back every year with the same old story. Peyton Manning is in his 30s and he just might be the greatest quarterback to ever play the game. Randy Moss And Terrell Owens are still going strong at the wide receiver position, and I could not even tell how old Jerry Rice was before he walked away. He is probably still playing pick-up games somewhere. So, what is it with running backs? Sure, they take a lot of hits when they carry the ball. But these days, pretty much every team runs three- or four-back systems, so if they are healthy, they would not take a lot of hits anyway. Look at Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton and Jerome Bettis. They were able to carry the load. Fred Taylor did not even reach his first Pro Bowl until he was already into his 30s. Why did LaDainian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook get cut? Tomlinson had at least 1,000 yards in all but one season and at least 10 touchdowns every year. Westbrook is in the top five in yards from scrimmage every year. Unfortunately, once teams think players are too old, they get thrown to the dumps. When it comes down to it, it is a combination of age and money with all the players. They can go on for years after their prime, but only as long as the greedy, money-hungry owners are willing to allow them to do so. It is up to all these older players to prove the owners wrong. Rookies do not win championships. If Tomlinson and Westbrook’s new teams get close to or even get to the Super Bowl next season, how will their old teams feel? It will only show that there is no point in teams going young, because those teams never win a lot of games. Tristin Cooper is a staff writer for The Advocate. Contact him at tcooper. advocate@gmail.com.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE
Errors doom squad
7
Costly mistakes burn team in loss By Dariush Azmoudeh SPORTS EDITOR
Missed throws, wild pitches, bad hops and various other mistakes defined the Comets’ 9-4 home loss against rival Diablo Valley College Monday. On defense, the Comets (38 overall, 0-0 in the Bay Valley ERIK VERDUZCO / THE ADVOCATE Conference) were not able to get a good grip on the ball throughout Imperfect — Comet right fielder Javan Williams misses the ball after second baseman Billy Bell the game and committed a total of slipped and fell trying to recover an overthrown pass to first base in their game against Diablo Valley four errors, which the Vikings (6-5 College at home Monday. Contra Costa College’s many defensive errors resulted in a 9-4 loss. overall, 0-0 in the Big 8 Conference) errors (we made),” Comet center- third. After scoring a run in the top of were able to capitalize on by scoring fielder Thomas Schwartz said. On the next play, the Comets the fifth, it was the Vikings’ turn to five unearned runs. While the first three innings were got a runner out at home, following allow CCC to score two unearned “We gave it to them,” well equalized between a bunt by DVC right fielder Mitch runs on an error, when DVC shortComet coach Marvin both teams, the fourth Petrak. A few plays later while try- stop Scott Harkin misfired a throw Webb said. “We just ScoreBoard inning was the turning ing to get a runner out at home, how- to first, which brought runners home gave them the game — point of the game. That ever, Tramble’s throw went past the from second and third base. bad plays, bad defense, Vikings 9 After the fifth inning, nothing was was where the Comets’ catcher and into the out-of-bounds not anticipating, no hus- Comets 4 defense began going area, which allowed two runs to good for the CCC offense, which tle, no fire. We just let downhill, by allowing score. Another error shortly after did not score again and only had two them have it their way.” three errors that gave allowed DVC to add an additional hits for the rest of the game. Next game: Contra Costa College Thursday at On defense, things got worse. DVC four unearned two runs, making the score 4-0. will begin conference Mendocino, The Comets allowed the Vikings “We’ve got to play hard, play runs. play with an away game 2:30 p.m. With a runner at sec- with heart,” second baseman Billy to score a run in each of the remainagainst Mendocino ond base, CCC’s first Bell said. “If we don’t play with ing four innings and get seven hits, College (5-4 overall, 0-0 error came when DVC heart, it will be a repeat of last totaling 11 for the day. in the BVC) Thursday. Its first home third baseman Justin Manci hit the year.” “We’ve just got to work harder, conference game will be against ball toward Comet third baseman Bell’s two-run home run in the get a little more hungrier and have Laney College (6-4 overall, 0-0 in Wesley Tramble, who prepared to bottom of the fourth shortened the heart,” Webb said. the BVC) Saturday at 1 p.m. glove it, but the ball took an awk- Vikings’ lead to 4-2 and helped “They weren’t any better than us, ward hop. CCC, however, was able keep the Comets’ fighting spirit up Contact Dariush Azmoudeh at we just gave away the game with the to keep the runners at first and for a while. dazmoudeh.advocate@gmail.com.
Loss | Game slips away in final 16 seconds Renegades 31-24 in the first Two-time Bay Valley half, however, with Martin Conference Most Valuable and Ohlone guard Ganeaya Player Kenyanna “K.K.” Rogers leading their respecMartin had difficulties scor- tive teams with 10 points. The second half started ing early in the game, going 0-6 before making her first roughly for CCC, as it combasket of the game on a mitted three straight turnovers by overthrowing the transition layup. ball and getT h e ting picked off Renegades ScoreBoard by the Ohlone were able to defense. The attack CCC’s Renegades 71 Renegades struggling inteComets 67 were able to rior defense, capitalize on making several Season over: them and score layups, allow19-10 overall, seven coning Ohlone to 11-5 in the BVC secutive shots, remain on top including two for the majority 3-pointers of the first half. “One of our biggest from guard Jasmine Rubin, weaknesses is our interior giving them a 14-point lead. “We had a defensive defense, since we lost (forward) Kandy Stewart to a meltdown (coming into the torn (anterior cruciate liga- second half),” Stewart said. ment) in December,” DeBolt “We thought Ohlone could have blown us out.” said. The Comets as a team Despite being unable to contain Ohlone’s offense, the struggled to establish an Comets were able to stay in offensive game early in the game with Martin being the second half, as Martin able to spark up her offen- scored 11 of the team’s 12 sive intensity late in the first points. The Renegades, howhalf, nailing several tough ever, continued to answer layups and getting to the free back, keeping them up 13 points at 40-27. throw line three times. After a CCC timeout Although the Comets struggled in its defensive to stop the Renegades’ intensity, Ohlone’s defense momentum, the Comets committed a total of 10 team began to turn up their intenfouls in the first half com- sity on both ends of the court, making key stops on pared to CCC’s four. The Comets trailed the defense and spreading the ■ FROM: Page 1
Box scores
Totals
Women’s Basketball (Feb. 26 ) Ohlone College (71) Rubin 10-15 1-2 22, Valenzuela 4-6 0-0 9, Bonifacio 0-0 0-0 0, Encelan 0-0 0-0 0, Duenas 1-4 0-0 3, Rogers 6-12 5-9 19, Lajander 0-0 0-0 0, Conejero 0-0 0-0 0, Spain 1-3 1-2 3, McLaughlin 2-8 0-1 5, Torrecillas 0-0 0-0 0, Leftridge 5-6 0-0 10. Totals 29-54 7-14 71. Contra Costa College (67) Gipson 0-0 0-0 0, Sanders 0-0 0-0 0, Montgomery 2-5 0-1 5, Bridges 4-9 0-0 8, Stewart 1-4 7-9 9, Hunt 2-9 2-2 7, Aquino 0-4 4-4 4, Martin 9-21 10-13 28, Williams 0-0 0-0 0, Walker 2-3 0-0 4, Chaney 1-1 0-0 2, Farinas 0-0 0-0 0, Love 0-0 0-2 0. Totals 21-56 23-31 67. Three-point goals Ohlone — Rubin 3, Valenzuela 1, Duenas 1, McLaughlin 1. Contra Costa — Hunt 1, Montgomery 1.
Baseball (March 1) RBI 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1
Contra Costa College AB R Williams rf 4 1 Fredzess-Lucas ss 5 0 Schwartz cf 3 0 Tramble 3b 3 1 Bell 2b 3 1 Hogan lf 4 0 Morris 1b 4 0 Barahana c 4 0 Arnold dh 3 1
000 000
Contra Costa College Moret (L) Solano
IP
H R ER BB SO
7.0 2.0
8 7 3 2
3 1
2 1
4 1
Diablo Valley College Goonan (W) Rath Kochan Barber Chaves
4.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
5 2 0 0 1
2 0 0 0 0
1 2 0 1 0
0 0 0 0 1
H 2 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1
RBI 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0
411 220
111 000
2 2 0 0 0
-
points until the final seconds of the game. After an Ohlone timeout with 16 seconds remaining and CCC up 67-66, Rogers took advantage of the lack of interior defensive play of the Comets by splitting the defense and making a layup, giving the Renegades the one-point lead. The Comets then committed a costly turnover by throwing the ball right back to the Renegades after the
Bay Valley W L 15 1 15 1 11 5 9 7 7 9 6 10 6 10 3 13 0 16
Schedule Baseball at Mendocino, Thursday 2:30 p.m. vs. Laney, Saturday 1 p.m. Softball vs. Los Medanos, Thursday 1 p.m. (DH) at Delta, Saturday 10 a.m. (DH)
Overall W L 24 5 24 5 19 10 11 14 7 17 10 14 11 16 4 21 2 22
inbounds, and Ohlone was able to hold onto its lead and take the game in a 7167 result. The Comets had a total of 14 turnovers in the game. “I feel we should have won the game,” a disappointed DeBolt said. “However, we had a defensive collapse in the end.” Contact Malcolm Lastra at mlastra. advocate@gmail.com.
Game of the Week
9 4
Standings Laney College Solano Community College Contra Costa College Merritt College Mendocino College College of Marin Los Medanos College Yuba College Napa Valley College
JOE PHUTIYOTIN / THE ADVOCATE
Pure speed — Comet guard Aleah Bridges drives past Ohlone College forward Jayme Leftridge in the semi-final round of the North Regional playoffs Friday in Fremont. The Comets lost 71-67.
33 4 8 2
Diablo Valley College Contra Costa College
Bay Valley Conference
Rebounds Ohlone 15 (McLaughlin, Rogers 4), Contra Costa 36 (Martin 17).
Diablo Valley College AB R H Wold cf 4 1 1 Pelayo lf 5 0 1 Manci 3b 3 2 2 Petrak rf 5 2 1 Andrews 1b 3 1 1 Harkin ss 3 2 1 Espinoza dh 4 0 0 Cavestany c 3 0 0 Bourgien 2b 2 0 0 Cannon lf 2 0 2 Dominguez dh 1 0 0 Nuyten 2b 2 1 2
37 9 11 4
Women’s basketball
Fouled out Ohlone — None. Contra Costa — Hunt.
ball around among its players on offense. Offensively, CCC was able to go on an 18-4 run, led by free throw shots, key layups and two three-pointers by Hunt and guard Lakesha Montgomery, bringing CCC back to within three, trailing 48-45. “There is no such thing as 15-point baskets, so we had to make shots and get into a rhythm,” DeBolt said. “We came all the way back from the deficit, and the players made a great effort.” The Comets were able to gain the lead for the first time since early in the first half after a turnaround jump shot by Martin that made the score 49-48. CCC went back to its poor execution on the defensive end shortly afterward and again allowed the Renegades to attack the basket and confuse the interior defense by the point guard kicking the ball out to open shooters. “We rattled them defensively, got into a defensive rhythm,” DeBolt said. “However, we had trouble stopping them from scoring in the last few minutes.” Despite the lack of defense, the Comets were able to maintain their offensive intensity, answering back to Ohlone’s baskets, as both teams exchanged
Baseball Contra Costa College VS.
Laney College When: Saturday, 1 p.m. Where: Baseball field Records: CCC 3-8 overall, 0-0 in the BVC. Laney 6-4 overall, 0-0 in the BVC. Background: The Comets look to open their first home Bay Valley Conference game against the Eagles on Saturday. Out of the four meetings between the two teams last year, the Comets were only able to muster up one win at home, by the score of 2-0. Last season, Laney finished just above the Comets in the conference with an 8-19 BVC record. —Dariush Azmoudeh
8 THE ADVOCATE
FOCUS
l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
Staying close — Elizabeth Reimer and her two daughters, Amelia (left) and Isabel, stay close, as firecrackers explode in front of them at the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco Saturday.
Keeping in step — (Above) Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students from Galileo High School march down Market Street as part of San Francisco’s Chinese New Year Parade Saturday.
CHINESE NEW YEAR
2010 Story and photos by Erik Verduzco
O
ne of the most popular celebrations in the Bay Area took place in San Francisco Saturday. After two days of rain, the skies cleared just in time for the annual Chinese New Year Parade celebrating the year of the tiger. San Francisco began hosting the event in the 1860s as way to educate the community about the culture, and it is now one of the largest, if not the largest, Chinese New Year festivals in the country. Young and old gathered along the parade route to watch the spectacle, some staking out a spot hours before it began, ensuring a good viewing point. The parade took off around 5:30 p.m. on Market and 2nd Street and ended at about 9 p.m. about two miles up in the intersection of Kearny and Columbus in Chinatown.
Filled mostly with families and young people snapping photos, the crowd watched as colorful and tigerthemed floats cruised down the parade route accompanied by performers from different clubs and associations acting out traditional dances. As day turned into night, a crowd favorite started their march down the parade route. As firecrackers exploded, the White Crane Dragon and Lion Dance Association displayed “The Golden Dragon,” a 108-foot dragon operated by a team of 30 men. The showcase amazed the crowd, which screamed and photographed the dragon, collectively thrilled to be a part of the warm welcome to the New Year. Contact Erik Verduzco at everduzco.advocate@gmail.com.
Having a blast — A group of men hold the head of “The Golden Dragon” as it fires smoke during Saturday’s Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco.
Discipline, teamwork — Members of The White Crane Lion Dance Association display their dragon during San Francisco’s Chinese New Year Parade Saturday.
The association started as a dance and martial art school in Oakland, Calif. in 1971 and has since become one of the finest in North America.