The Advocate - March 16, 2011

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

Bookstore saves money

Rental program proves successful

sports ◆ page 7

CMYK

campus beat ◆ page 5

scene ◆ page 8

Sluggish Softball team cancels games

Coffee shop comforts Catahoula revitalizes beverage experience

VOL. 96, NO. 16

SINCE 1950 8 PAGES, ONE COPY FREE

THE WEEKLY STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM

Tax plan attains support Fee proposition awaits senate agreements

By Adam Oliver NEWS EDITOR

aoliver.advocate@gmail.com

Bound in the partisan purgatory of Sacramento lawmakers’ collective bargaining, Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed tax extension package and the June special election ballot on which it is to appear continue to await their final judgment.

Brown’s proposition to offset the $26.6 billion state deficit by extending for five years the current vehiincome “Without cle, and sales taxes may the tax may not extension or even find more than its way into the hands 400,000 of voters.

H av i n g students missed will be a selfimposed pushed deadline out of the March 10, is (commu- Brown cur rently nity col- e n g a g e d talks lege) sys- in with five tem. That’s Republican tors approxi- stoe n a commately the p r o m i s e order to entire CSU in allow the system.” tax extension onto the ballot to Alex Pader, be decided president of the State Senate by the peofor California ple.

Community A n d Colleges as a consequence, California’s higher education institutions, among other programs and services, are anticipating what could be “cataclysmic” reductions if lawmakers or voters turn the proposition down.

At the Contra Costa Community College District, the already $10.2 million cut to the 2011-12 fiscal year could be amplified to the tune of $15.8 million if the initiative fails or never reaches the ballot.

“We’re really on the margin when it comes to trying to fund what we do right now,” Contra ■ SEE EXTENSION: Page 4

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Marching in solidarity — Cal State-Channel Islands student Jonathan Neira (center) and Cal State-Chico student Nathan Brandy (right) march alongside each other during the March in March rally in Sacramento on Monday. About 2,000 students attended.

edit orial Let voters decide

Politicians need to allow Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed tax measure that would help alleviate the stress of budget cuts to education to appear on the special election ballot in June.

page 2

Students march to state Capitol, demand voting opportunity

By Sam Attal

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

sattal.advocate@gmail.com

SACRAMENTO — Even heavy rainfall did not stop college and university students from gathering at the state Capitol Monday morning to yell and scream at lawmakers to pass a decisive initiative.

About 2,000 students from up-anddown the state gathered for the annual March in March rally in front of the state Legislature at 11 a.m. They showed support for a tax extension proposal that may save higher education systems from fee hikes in the upcoming fiscal year.

“Our demands are clear and direct,” said Alex Pader, president of the State Senate for California Community Colleges. “Stop the hike of tuition.”

The tax extension proposal is Gov. Jerry Brown’s plan to alleviate the state’s growing $26.6 billion budget deficit. The pro-

posal asks Californians to continue paying the same rates for income and sales taxes and the vehicle license fee as opposed to a scheduled decrease on July 1.

If state senators decide to let a tax extension initiative be voted upon in a statewide special election in June, and if it passes, only $12.5 billion will be cut from service and operational reserves of statefunded entities including educational institutions. All public two-year and four-year institutions statewide are currently facing a combined $1.4 billion cut.

“We need this initiative to help fund our future (through higher education),” Pader

said. “We must let people vote.”

District United Faculty President Jeffrey Michels spoke on the steps of the Capitol and said tax extensions are key to helping societies thrive.

“Taxes fund your schools (and) your communities,” he said.

Michels said Republicans in the legislature do not want to extend tax rates because of personal interests.

“It’s the corporate taxes they’re trying to (hold back),” he said.

During the march, Democratic lawmakers supported students and said if the tax extension initiative is not put on the ballot, or is voted down, education will take a cut that would hurt every Californian’s future.

“Public education is not just a want, but a need for this state,” Assemblyman Marty Block (D-San Diego) said. “We have people in this building that won’t let us vote; ■ SEE RALLY: Page 4

Arts appreciated, talents performed

By Hilberth Ibarra STAFF WRITER

hibarra.advocate@gmail.com

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Concentrated aggression — Students of the Soulistic martial arts team perform for the audience at the Contra Costa Martial Arts, Music and Dance-fest on March 11.

SAN PABLO — In any community, being able to showcase talented youth singing, dancing and competing with their hobbies is a positive way to appreciate the arts.

The Contra Costa Martial Arts, Music and Dance-Fest took place at Walter T. Helms Middle School in San Pablo on Friday.

Contra Costa College sociology major James Solis said, “The theme (of the event) was taking the art of the street

into the studio and onto the stage and to promote discipline, good values, character and education of the arts.”

The event headliner was the martial arts showcase, in which multiple groups of students from a variety of disciplines staged jumps and kicks in the school’s auditorium.

Special moves and unison drills, along with individual presentations of martial arts maneuvers and tricks from a total of about 50 students entertained the audience.

This event was produced and directed by Solis and the Helms Project Focus After-School Program and hosted

by Affiliated Martial Arts Promoters Association (AMAPA).

“Through what we do, we help to promote responsibility, leadership and ■ SEE SHOWCASE: Page 4

CMYK

Students showcase abilities on stage

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

2 THE ADVOCATE Quotable “One’s right to life, liberty, and property, to free speech, a free press, freedom of worship and assembly, and other fundamental rights may not be submitted to vote; they depend on the outcome of no elections.”

Robert H. Jackson U.S. Supreme Court justice 1943 Sam Attal editor-in-chief George Morin art director Dariush Azmoudeh associate editor

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011 VOL. 96, NO. 16 ●

Editorial Wrong hands Citizens need opportunity to vote

Lamar James associate editor Cassidy Gooding opinion editor Malcolm Lastra sports editor Adam Oliver Alexandra Waite news editors Jermaine Harrison circulation manager Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Christopher Clausen April Halog Hilberth Ibarra Iris Jett Horace Jordan Angelina Rucobo Janit Saechao Jesslyn Sherrod Parris Washington Rodney Woodson Staff photographers Hanan Ayyad Qing Huang Jesse Sutherland Christian Urrutia Roman Young Staff illustrators Jared Amdahl Faythe Del Rosario Jon Running 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 16, 2011

F

or months, California’s budget has been in limbo and higher education throughout the state is being threatened by further gashes.

The current predictions are that tuition will rise, staffing will reduce and even financial aid and student services may lose some of their funding.

In short, when the budget is finalized in June, colleges are going to have to keep crunching away at already lean resources.

The only form of relief higher education can hope for is Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed tax extension on vehicle licensing fees and income and sales taxes.

If the measure is placed on the special election ballot in June and passed, the money collected will help balance the $26.6 billion deficit California faces.

This will in turn lessen the reductions higher education systems will be required to take.

The current projection is a $1.4 billion reduction to higher education.

The University of California and California State University systems will each be docked $500 million for fiscal year 2011-12. Community colleges will feel the force of a $400 million blow.

Obviously, the alleviation Brown’s tax measure would provide would help education remain more affordable and effective. Such a proposal needs to be placed on the ballot and it needs to pass.

Students need to be proactive and plan to continue participating in marches, writing letters and make sure this measure is passed. We can no longer watch lackadaisically as fees rise and classes and services decrease.

A bigger problem, however, is that GOP members of the state legislature do not believe these tax extensions are in California’s best interests. Republicans and Democrats are currently in a standoff, arguing about how wise it would be to let voters decide this issue.

Last we checked, this is not the 18th century, and politicians no longer have to worry about the unwashed and illiterate masses making bad decisions that will negatively affect the population’s general well-being.

Lawmakers who are not affected by such proposed cuts made to education may just be protecting their own checkbooks. However, they have no reason to say that they know what is in the best interest of the public — voters do.

The public can make its own decision and figure out if education is worth funding through its own pocket. Instead of the big heads in Sacramento, communities should be able to choose if education is a priority.

The legislature needs to agree to allow the tax measure to be present on the ballot so those affected by taxes and cuts can make decisions.

JON RUNNING / THE ADVOCATE

■ Ecosystem

Environmental worries overreacted

W

hile working at a retail store, one of the common expressions I hear when asking someone whether they want a plastic bag or not for their purchased items is, “No thanks, keep it. Save the environment,” or something.

This bothers me, because it is perhaps one of the most ignorant statements about the Earth’s self-sustainability.

While global warming is undoubtedly considered a monumental issue facing today’s society and discussion revolving around climate change is gaining more attention in global politics, the regular misconception that people make about nature is that the environment needs humanity for it to maintain and survive, whereas in actuality, it is the complete opposite.

Human beings need nature in order to live, prosper and continue the existence of our species.

Biodiversity, which is defined as the variation of life forms within a given ecosystem, is the foundation of all life on Earth.

Human societies cannot provide for themselves the essential services provided by nature and healthy ecosystems.

Among these services are stable climates, clean air, fresh water, insect populations that pollinate food crops, healthy soils and sources of pharmaceuticals for human health.

According to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, an international synthesis by more than 1,000 of the world’s

tial harm that can be done by humans, late comedian George Carlin said it best in one of his stand-ups.

“The planet has been through a lot worse than us.

Been through all kinds of things worse than us.

“Been through earthleading biological scientists that analyzes the state of the quakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics, continental drift, Earth’s ecosystems in the solar flares, sun spots, magpast 50 years, humans have netic storms, the magnetic changed ecosystems more reversal of the poles, hunrapidly and extensively than dreds of thousands of years in any comparable period of bombardment by comets of time in human history, largely to meet rapidly grow- and asteroids and meteors, worldwide floods, tidal ing demands for food, fresh water, timber, fiber and fuel. waves, worldwide fires, erosion, cosmic rays, recurring These changes have ice ages... and we think some resulted in a substantial and largely irreversible loss in the plastic bags and some aluminum cans are going to make diversity of life on earth. a difference?

But despite the damage “The planet isn’t going that has occurred to earth’s anywhere. WE ARE!” biodiversity, in turn threatEarth doesn’t care whether ening the life balance of all you turn off your air condiliving things on the planet, tioner, refrigerator and televiits longevity is more than sion set. securely rooted in the comIt doesn’t notice when you ing future.

From the start of our little turn down your thermostat and drive a hybrid car. blue planet in the solar sysThe notion of trying to tem, to the current conditions save our environment only of the world today, to the applies to improving the long lasting certainty of its advancement into the future, biodiversity surrounding us, Earth’s overall sustainability so that we can have a suscan be measured within geo- tainable future and possibly stick around for a little while logical time. longer.

And through geological Otherwise, the “save the time, this planet has shown that it would take a lot more environment” mindset is just another myth flooding our than a complex and intelculture. ligent species to inflict any serious damage to this old Christian Urrutia is a planet we call our home. staff photographer for The Nonetheless, damaging Advocate. Contact him at the earth is precisely what’s concerning a lot of people at currutia.advocate@gmail. com. the moment.

Addressing any poten-

christianurrutia

CampusComment

What can students do to fight the budget cuts?

“They should stomp to the Capitol and complain to the government.”

Jericho Cabanayan MCHS

“Well, students can be proactive, and do marches and protest.

The government can see that the budget cuts are affecting a lot of people.”

“(The students) can start by marching. They can also write letters, and that’s what they can do. Basically, to notify the people in charge.”

“I don’t have any complaints concerning the budget cuts because I got into all my classes, and they (the students) should figure out how to solve the problem.”

Gerardo Lozano

Angelita Mireles

Sang Phan

undecided

FAYTHE DEL ROSARIO AND JESSE SUTHERLAND / THE ADVOCATE

photography art

chemistry

“(The students) can make it known that they don’t appreciate the budgets cuts. People go to community college because they can’t afford four-year schools.”

Harleen Kaur undecided

“(Students) can protest.

They should also get more people to join the protests.”

Quamisha Hardy

early childhood education

FORUM ■ Respect

georgemorin

Remembering customers draws pride

W

orking at the local burger restaurant in your hometown can bring about a lot more than the average day of serving burgers and fries.

In my many years as an employee to the system of what would be called the food establishment, I have learned many useful life skills, and some not so useful skills, for my everyday life.

One of the more helpful skills I have gained is an appreciation for the act of communication between strangers. Those not so useful include having the ability to operate and maintain a commercial deep fryer or the ability to know when people want a refill on their Diet Pepsi.

Outside of the mundane responsibilities and duties of the workplace, I never found myself to be open or even have the courage to confront and engage a stranger in conversation. The act seemed almost haunting. If there was no topic or similarity, I never fathomed how conversation could be achieved with such people.

While walking through the grocery store with some friends awhile back, the glimpse of a familiar face came into view. Past the oranges and strawberries was a person I only remembered seeing at work.

Immediately, I experienced feelings of nervousness and uncertainty about what was to come next. Should I hide behind the pumpkins, or just make a dart for the exit of the grocery store in hopes no one saw this strange Asian man running for his life? Instead, I turned around and hoped that would be the end of this predicament.

Once I had escaped, I walked down the frozen food section of the grocery store feeling relieved. But the solace was only temporary.

Despite my tricky getaway, the familiar face suddenly appeared walking down the same aisle staring right at me.

The face came closer and closer until it was about two feet away from me. The person connected to the face was an older woman who would come in for breakfast on the weekends.

The nice woman said, “Hello, how are you doing today George?”

I was shocked. The only things, I remembered about this woman were that she liked to order chicken-fried steak and eggs for breakfast and on occasion enjoyed corn beef and hash.

To me, she was just another regular of the restaurant, and to her, I was probably nothing too out of the ordinary. But she at least cared enough to remember my name.

Since that day a couple years back, I decided to try my best to remember the names of the many customers who regularly frequent my work place.

I’m not doing it for tips or a sense of gratification, but in hopes that they can take away from the experience what I did; in hopes that someday we will all be able to go beyond the confines of what we consider safe or simply taking the ability to appreciate and recognize the people living in the world around us.

George Morin is art director of The Advocate.

Contact him at gmorin. advocate@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

3

■ Complaining

Public whining annoys all

W

e live in a society where people can and will speak their minds whenever they feel the need to.

The sad truth is, though, that not everyone cares.

Too often I go into a store and someone has to argue with the cashier.

It is the cashier’s fault every time the customer is unhappy. And it is the cashier’s responsibility to cater to the whiny customer’s every whim.

Most of the time, the issue can simply be resolved if the customer would shut his or her mouth and just listen.

Instead, the customer goes on and on about how the store is treating customers unfairly or how they are racist or what have you.

Is this employee being racist or unfair?

Probably not.

People just like to draw attention to themselves, expecting some free handouts or whatever.

An even more relatable situation is in the classroom.

the professor (unintentional antagonist) in the classroom (the stage) in front of the entire class (audience) attempting to fix his or her issue (the plot) and end with some sort of student protest (applause or praise, I think.)

Unless that student is right, and usually he or she Tough teachers are not is not, the rest of the stuhard to come by in most of dents in the classroom will today’s schools. With the increasingly popular website, feel multiple things: www.ratemyprofessor.com, 1. Irritated that this person tough teachers are easier to has the nerve to make poor avoid. use of class time.

There is always that one 2. Entertained because person who loves to argue they hate that class anyway. with the professor.

3. Sleepy. These students If they cannot get on the will proceed to go back to professor’s good side, the sleep at this point. professor is racist, sexist or a Essentially, no one wants mean old jerk. to hear people whine and Too often I have been in complain about simple the classroom with a stuthings that could be settled at dent who believes he or she a different time in a different deserved a better grade on a place.

And then there are the test. I am pretty sure these people have convinced them- people who, upon meeting selves that they are perform- them, seem nice and optiers and their classmates are mistic.

But the instant you find adoring fans.

The student (lead actor/ them on Facebook or Tumblr, actress) decides to call out that all changes.

christopherclausen

Lost

Daylight saving dangerous, silly, proves outdated

By Cassidy Gooding OPINION EDITOR

cgooding.advocate@gmail.com

A

few days ago, most of the continental U.S. awoke groggily to alarms that should have been going off an hour later to find that it was way too dark to rise and shine. Yes, in the wee hours of Sunday morning, daylight saving time struck again, stealing 60 minutes of Americans’ lives.

The idea to turn our clocks an hour forward on an arbitrary date nearing the spring season was first suggested by the otherwise genius Benjamin Franklin in 1784. During World War I, Germany was the first to officially introduce it. America soon followed suit. In 1918, the first daylight saving time law was passed that was uniform across the nation.

When the war was over, this law was repealed, and the option to play with time was left in the hands of local governments. This power remained at a local level until a national imposition of “daylight saving” was used to conserve energy during World War II. The second nationally consistent leap forward was also revoked, however, soon after the war ended in 1945.

Predictably, during the 1950s and 60s, chaos reigned while local governments toyed with their tickers according to individual whims.

One year, 23 different pairs of daylight saving time start and end dates were used in Iowa alone. Many industries, especially those concerning transportation between time zones, found the capricious inconsistency quite costly.

Today, though states are not mandated to enforce daylight saving time changes, the U.S. government has asked that any state that does choose to keep humoring the antiquated tradition adhere to the

Their status updates, blogs, posts, notes and every word they write is basically a cry for help.

It is one thing when a really optimistic people are going through rough times and they just want someone to talk to. It is something totally different when an optimistic person posts every single negative thought for the entire world to see.

It is not cool. It is annoying.

If you really have that many issues, then why in the world would you pretend that everything is OK, only to say it to your entire world via the Internet later?

People will listen if you say the right things, in the right way. People will help you if you ask for it correctly. Do not assume that everyone can relate to you or that everyone feels the same way you do.

Christopher Clausen is a staff writer for The Advocate.

Contact him at cclausen. advocate@gmail.com.

in time

same schedule. Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. on the second Sunday in March and ends at the same time on the first Sunday in November.

Forty-eight of the states still find this practice necessary. Arizona and Hawaii, on the other hand, have done away with the silly concept.

Considering the enormous leaps and bounds we have made technologically, we no longer need to “save daylight” to in turn conserve candle wax.

Dark roads are not as dangerous as they once were and the general public no longer wakes up at the crack of dawn to hop on their horses and work on their farms all day.

Making already tired and cranky college students wake up an hour earlier every day for the majority of the year is not even cutting back on electricity costs.

In a study conducted by scientists at UC Santa Barbara, energy usage was monitored in different counties in Indiana over a three-year period.

Their study ultimately found that in the counties that once held year-round standard time but switched to follow daylight saving time changes dur-

ing the time period ended up using way more energy than before. In fact, daylight saving time had the state of Indiana spending an average of $8.6 million more a year, projected as mostly air-conditioning costs.

There is also strong evidence that suggests a spike in the severity of automobile accidents and a dip in general productivity during the days following time shifts while people are still adjusting.

Regardless of all this, though, remains the fact that the ability to simply move the hands of nearly every clock in the nation backward and forward in unison is just weird. Where are the conservationists of moonlight to decry this practice? Where are the admirers of consistency or the friends of sleeping in at least until the birds are chirping? They can’t all fit in the confines of Hawaii and Arizona.

At the very least, one would expect more than a few sensible citizens to stand up and protest having to fiddle with car and microwave clocks every few months.

JARED AMDAHL / THE ADVOCATE

4 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011

accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Extension | Tax proposition delayed ■ FROM: Page 1

Twitter

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

Newsline ■ EXHIBIT

‘Animalia’ art show presented The art department is presenting the exhibit “Animalia” by department Chairman Eric Sanchez, Monday-Friday in the Eddie Rhodes Gallery, A-5, until March 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Animalia” features images of domesticated animals that are fused with human beings. Exhibitions are free and open to the public.

■ JAZZ

Singers perform at local eatery Jazz Singers and Jazzanova of the music department will perform at La Strada in San Pablo on Monday from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

The Italian restaurant will charge a $10 cover charge at the door to benefit the music department.

For reservations, call La Strada at (510) 237-9047.

CAMPUS BEAT

Costa College President McKinley Williams said. “Every dollar is significant. It would be a severe entrenchment we would have to undergo.”

If Brown were to call for an all-cuts budget without the funding provided by the tax package, the state could bear the brunt of the entire $26.6 billion deficit, rather than only the unconditional $12.5 billion reduction.

Alex Pader, president of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges, said, “Without the tax extension more than 400,000 students will be pushed out of the (community college) system. That’s approximately the entire CSU system.”

And as CCC has an average enrollment of around 10,000 students, “consider that (to be) 40 of your campuses closing,” he said.

However, the 400,000 students projected to be denied access to community colleges could be minimized to 150,000 if the extensions are passed, Pader said.

But while it seems likely that the taxes will make it onto the ballot, it is not as likely that they will be voted in, Vice Chancellor of Administration Services Kindred Murillo said.

In 2009, California’s Proposition 1A, which would have extended essentially the same taxes, was denied by 65.4 per-

“I just can’t believe we would raise our fees like that, it is a little too much for students It doesn’t coincide with out value of education in California.”

Kindred Murillo,

district vice chancellor of administration services

cent of voters. However, urgent times may move some to bite the bullet for education’s sake, Williams said.

Murillo said, “A lot of people in Northern California get it. There’s a heavy value of education here. (But) there are some people who just don’t want taxes, bottom line.”

Adding to the mess, lost revenues from the failed extensions would necessitate the slashing of staff, course offerings, services and some “heavy duty programs,” she said.

With more than 90 percent of the college’s budget locked up in personnel, it will be impossible to avoid significant staffing reductions, both with and without the tax extensions, Williams said.

General student services would also be greatly affected.

“It’s really a cataclysmic level of budget reduction for a district our size. How far can you cut and still have a college with viable resources?” he asked.

The district may also consider implementing furloughs if “right sized” staffing and operational reductions do not meet the necessary budget reductions, Murillo said.

To garner a projected $170 million if the extensions aren’t passed, the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) has suggested a 154 percent fee increase from $26 to $66 per unit.

Though a $10 tuition increase can be expected, it is unlikely that the state will enact such a drastic fee ($66 per unit) hike, Murillo said.

“I just can’t believe we would raise our fees like that. It is a little too much for students. It doesn’t coincide with our value of education in California,” she said.

Another suggestion issued by the LAO to provide $250 million in revenues would apply a 90-unit cap on taxpayersubsidized credits.

“We want the classes that any community wants, but when we have to choose between someone who has taken the same yoga class for 10 years and someone coming straight out of high school, we have to prioritize those students,” Pader said.

in brief w Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposition is under Republican senators’ review to be allowed on June’s special election ballot. w If Brown’s tax measure fails to reach the ballot, students will suffer from increased fees resulting in about 400,000 students being denied access to attend community colleges. w Faculty and staff will be affected severely as some jobs will be reduced, regardless if the tax measure passes.

Rally ■ FROM: Page 1

that’s un-American.”

After students, employees and supporters heard more information, they began shouting even louder outside the Capitol to urge Republican lawmakers to agree with Democrats and let the initiative on the ballot.

They began yelling at lawmak■ EXPERIMENT ers in the building to “let the people vote.”

CSU faculty representative Lillian Diaz said student support played a huge role in making the march successful.

“Anyone who says students are The Center for Science Excellence will host a lecture by apathetic needs to see where we are Dr. David Brown of the Lawrence today,” she said.

The rally participants began Livermore National Lab Friday in their march to the Capitol nearly PS-132 at 2 p.m.

Dr. Brown will attempt to re-ana- 1.5 miles away at the California lyze and illustrate E. Rutherford’s Automobile Museum. As they 100-year-old Geiger-Mardsen swarmed through the streets of experiment, which marks the dis- Sacramento waving colorful signs, covery of the atomic nucleus and they let residents, pedestrians and the founding of nuclear physics. drivers know for what they were fighting.

“The students, united, will never be divided,” and “They say cut back, we say fight back,” echoed through the streets as education ■ ST. PATRICK’S DAY advocates and students screamed the rhymes vigorously during the march.

Pader said students must come together and fight for higher education more often.

The Three Seasons Restaurant “This is about the students will host a St. Patrick’s Day Buffet across the state gathering as one,” Thursday in AA-239 from 11 a.m. he said. to 1:30 p.m.

Contra Costa College students Foods served will include agreed, saying that community colcorned beef, shepherd’s pie, potato pancakes and soda bread. Students will be charged $10 at the door.

CSE hosts science lecture

Restaurant serves buffet

CrimeWatch Friday, March 4: Two students were involved in a fight on campus.

Tuesday, March 8: An officer responded to a report of a female who fell on the Students Services Center access road. The student was transported to the hospital via American Medical Response.

Wednesday, March 9: A student reported being followed by a subject in the Student Activities Building. The subject was found to be a student and received a conduct referral.

Thursday, March 10: Unknown suspects broke into the auto shop in the Automotive Tech Building and took two Palm Pilot devices.

A subject was stopped for a traffic violation and it was determined he was an unlicensed driver. The subject was cited for being an unlicensed driver and other violations.

The vehicle was not towed and the subject was released at the scene.

Friday, March 11: Unknown suspects took several belongings from a victim’s locker in the Women’s Locker Room. The case is suspended.

— Alexandra Waite

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

A time to listen — District United Faculty President Jeffrey Michels speaks to the crowd about the importance of education during the March in March rally in Sacramento on Monday. lege students must work aside their peers at four-year institutions.

“It’s important for our students to fight (as well),” said CCC student Jose Rivera, who attended the rally alongside 74 other CCC students. “We’re proud of our students to be here.”

Although many students came out optimistic about their voices being heard, student advocates said one march is not enough.

President of the California State Student Association Christopher Chavez said, “We may not win tonight, we may not win tomorrow,

but we will win.”

However, Chavez said more students need to demonstrate support for the movement if they want to see reform.

“If you’re not willing to fight for yourselves,” he asked, “what will you fight for?”

Showcase | Students entertain community

■ FROM: Page 1

really teach kids that if they have some dream and some passion to go out and do it, and go all out,” Solis said. “If you can dream it, you can do it. That’s what this event was all about.”

Project Focus is an after-school program at Helms Middle School and Lake Elementary School.

The program brings young people together to produce events and promotes discipline, good values and character through education and the arts.

AMAPA is a non-profit organization that hosts events throughout the year and uses the proceeds of these events to fund children’s programs like the Contra Costa Martial Arts, Music, and Dance-Fest.

The Contra Costa Martial Arts, Music, and Dance-Fest is a talent production and awards ceremony.

The main goal of hosting the event was to allow students to organize and operate a community event while teaching responsibility and developing youth leadership.

The event attracted more than 300 people, including participants in various disciplines. The performers came from all over the Bay Area and from different schools, including Helms Middle School and Richmond High School.

Youth performers also came from martial arts and gymnastics academies to participate in the event.

The event presented a diverse range of performances, including martial arts demonstrations, dancing, singing and music. At one point, Solis’ 77-year-old grandmother came on stage and dem-

This gesture was a perfect example of the purpose of this event. “There are no losers. Everyone was a winner,” Solis said.

This event also succeeded in bringing the community together, from the mayor of San Pablo, Paul Morris, to San Pablo Police Chief Walt Schuld, as well as residents from Richmond, San Pablo and other cities in the Bay Area. The crowd was as diverse as the participants.

“Any community that is bringing people together in this type of event for the purpose of kids, making them feel great about themselves, whatever level they’re at, is great,” said Kim Emory, mother of MacKensi Emory, a participant at the event.

The event was also able to highlight the talent of the youth in the community.

Richard Ines, a performer and senior of Middle College High School, said, “I really think it is a great idea, for example, to show people that there is talent, especially in this community. When you GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE have local people perform in a local Fierce demonstration — MacKensi Emory performs in front of event, it opens people’s eyes.” the crowd at Walter T. Helms Middle School on March 11.

This was exactly what Solis and the youth who organized the event onstrated how she could perform these performances, and Freeman were attempting to accomplish.

20 sit-ups. dedicated his performance to the Solis said he is already thinking Another highlight of the night tsunami victims in Japan. The two about the next event and how these was the talent competition. Laticia youths were competing for the events can continue to have a posiSpears and Kalin Freeman, both chance to win a $500 scholarship. tive impact on the community. from Richmond High School, per- In the end, due to a generous dona“We are going to expand formed in this segment. tion, they each won $500 for their into more schools and show the Spears sang a song and played performances.

Richmond and San Pablo commuguitar and Freeman played the sax“Project Focus raised $500 for nities that these youths are someophone with back-up guitar and our winner, and then AMAPA was body and they will go somewhere,” drums. kind enough to donate another $500 he said.

The audience really got into for the other winner,” Solis said.

CAMPUS BEAT

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

5

Students remain in dark over new e-mail accounts

By Hilberth Ibarra

to a class. All but a few of his students did not receive his e-mail and showed up to class anyway.

A lack of marketing and getting general The same thing happened the followinformation out about the new college e- ing day, Feb. 17, with an additional three mail system, implemented in February, is classes. leaving students in the dark and unable to “I had six classes that I could not get in communicate with their professors. touch with,” Ampim said. “Altogether that’s New Contra Costa College student e-mail 260 students who I could not communicate accounts have been set up and are ready to with; who did not get the message that I was use with the goal of making communication not going to make it and they all came. easier between students and professors.

“They had just changed the system the However, most students aren’t even aware day before and I didn’t know anything about that they have the college e-mail address. it,” he said.

The student e-mail was been made posOut of his 260 students, only a few sible by live@edu, a program created by received his e-mail because they were part Microsoft. The accounts are available to of the pilot run of the project.

The fact that students were sent an estudents through a link on the college’s WebAdvisor site. mail to inform them of the changes did not The system replaced existing student help administrators reach the student body and effectively advertise, e-mail addresses that some students say. students had provided to Biological sciences the college themselves, “The timing was really with new e-mail addressand criminal justice major es that use a student’s off. It would have been Miranda Clagglette said, WebAdvisor user name “They sent an e-mail, but great for it to start about the students (the first initial of a stuin the (fall or) sum- what dent’s first name, followed who do not even check by his or her last name their e-mails? Some stumer when it was a dents are computer illitand the last three digits of the students’ ID number), little slower, instead of erate. I feel the way they followed by @comets. marketed it to the stuFebruary.” contracosta.edu. dents was not the best.”

The idea for student Another major inconVicki Ferguson, e-mails has been in the venience is the timing of interim senior dean of students works for years. the switch, as changes “A lot of our students occurred in the middle of did not have e-mail addresses,” Interim a semester, as minor kinks were still being Senior Dean of Students Vicki Ferguson worked out and as the attention of students said. “It was our goal to figure out how to and faculty were on other things. communicate with our students. About three “The timing was really off,” Ferguson years ago we thought we should try e-mail.” said. “It would have been great for it to start With the help of live@edu, the college in the (fall or) summer when it was a little was able to make the idea into a reality creat- slower, instead of February.” ing the new system.

College administrators are aware of the Though the idea was plausible, the real- inconvenience caused by the new system, ity of adopting a new campus-wide e-mail but they are optimistic about its benefits. system has been an inconvenience for pro- They are working on solutions to get the fessors and students alike. word out to students and educate them on Social sciences department Chairman how to use the new student e-mails.

Ferguson said, “What really needs to hapManu Ampim tried to communicate with three of his classes Feb. 16, a day after the pen is more marketing and communication, launch of the new student e-mails, to let as well as workshops on how to operate this them know he would not be able to make it new system.”

STAFF WRITER

hibarra.advocate@gmail.com

QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE

Chord control — Contra Costa College music department student Joaquin Navas plays a musical piece on his guitar during the Instrumental Concert Showcase held in the Knox Center on Sunday night.

School hosts drive to help save lives ASU event motivates CCC to donate blood

By Faythe Del Rosario

“I feel it (donating blood) is an easy way to help others without giving too much. It’s only a little blood.”

STAFF ILLUSTRATOR

frosario.advocate@gmail.com

A Blood Drive was held on March 9 at Contra Costa College and with every pint of blood donated that day, up to three lives could be saved.

The event was sponsored by the ASU and was held in the Student Life Center from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Blood Centers of the Pacific provided the staff and supplies needed for the Blood Drive. There was no cost to the campus or ASU. The event had a positive conclusion.

There were many people coming in to contribute, with the majority of the individuals being students from Middle College High School.

“A good handful of donators are my peers and I wish I was one of them,” said MCHS student and ASU intern Grace Belan.

She was not able to donate because she did not get the parental consent that is necessary for those who are 16 years of age or under.

A significant reason why the ratio of college students to high school students donat-

Jeffery Haight, MCHS student

ing was so low was because of the timing of the event.

“College students are not able to stop by because this is a commuter school and they would often just go to class and then leave for work,” ASU Executive Vice President Rodney Wilson II said.

MCHS student Jeffery Haight said, “I feel it (donating blood) is an easy way to help others without giving too much. It’s only a little blood.”

The four nurses who were present took turns evaluating donor applications and giving small check-ups, preparing and tending to people donating.

The entire process takes approximately 45 minutes. However, the actual process of contributing blood takes from eight to 12 minutes.

Physical reactions after making a blood donation are often not serious and rare.

Donors are required to stay in the area for 15 minutes after giving blood.

ADAM OLIVER / THE ADVOCATE

Helping out — Nursing student Maria Castillo donates a pint of blood during the ASU hosted Blood Drive held on March 9 in the Student Life Center. Every pint donated could save up to three lives.

Many of the students stayed for the allotted time and replenished themselves with the snacks and beverages provided at the Blood Drive.

Not everyone is able to donate because restrictions may have prevented them from doing so. Not having enough iron in the blood is one example that would prevent a person from giving blood.

Recently, the Blood Centers of the Pacific has offered reward program to those who donate blood. It is to give incentive to give a pint or two.

“What we are trying to do is encourage people to donate,” Blood Centers of the Pacific account representative Joanne Alwine said.

People can get 100 points by making an

appointment at www.bloodheroes.com and will get an additional 100 points after the donation.

“I don’t think people are looking to get something out of it (donating). They do it out of the kindness in their hearts,” Wilson said.

Alwine said, “If people donated three times a year, we would not have a blood shortage.”

The next Blood Drive will be held in October, so those who donated on March 9 are able to donate again. It is intentionally being held during that time in the semester so people are able to donate three times during the year, Wilson said.

In order to get more people to donate at the upcoming drive, the event will end in the late afternoon, Alwine said.

Bookstore rental program saves money

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

mlastra.advocate@gmail.com

The Bookstore’s new textbook rental program on campus has boosted its own sales and saved students more than $40,000 in two months.

The rental program, which began in January, gives students the option to rent books rather than buy them. So far the Bookstore’s program has saved students a total of $41,499 as of March, according to its employees.

“The rental program helps students by (allowing) them to not spend as much money at the beginning of the semester,” textbook buyer Darris Crear said. “Hopefully the program will be permanent and we (the Bookstore) are hoping to expand it.”

The rental program is backed by publisher Nebraska Books Company, as its gives the Bookstore the difference of the money lost from renting books through them.

NBC then takes the rented book back to its warehouse and resells it to other schools or charities in need.

Beginning in the summer of 2010, the Bookstore began plans to relieve students’ financial stresses by providing a book rental option.

“On average we see people paying about $500 to $600 for 12 units (of books),” Bookstore Manager Janis Walsh said. “As of two weeks ago, we have saved students around $42,000 and moved about 1,400 books.”

Cashiers will ask patrons if they want to rent or buy the book as they are brought to the registers.

Walsh said there is also a new software program installed into the Bookstore’s computers, which asks students if they want to buy or rent the book.

The student must have a valid credit card and photo identification to rent the book and will be able to rent the book until the last day of class.

Creer said that the current rental program isn’t the first

such program. The Bookstore had previously offered limited rentals.

“We did limited rental before because the Bookstore had to pay for the books, which eventually cost us a lot of money,” he said. “In the end, everyone wins as the benefits saves the Bookstore and students money.”

The lowered book prices have helped at least two students deal with the on-going rise of student fees.

“I rented my books this year and I think it’s great,” criminal justice major Gilberto Gil said. “It has made school so much easier for me since it’s hard paying that much money for books, along with classes.”

While the rental program saves students money it will prevent a student from selling a book back to the Bookstore.

“Now when I rent the books I can’t sell it back,” nursing major Markeysha Johnson said. “I think (the rental program) is good for some people, but for some of us we can’t sell the books back.”

6 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011

FOCUS

Students joined together — (R to L) Cal State-Chico student Nathan Brandy, CSU-Channel Islands student Jonathan Neira and San Jose State student

Robert Landtrip march together at the March in March rally in Sacramento on Monday. More than 2,000 students were in attendance for the protest.

FIGHTING for a FUTURE photos by George Morin

Fists in the air — De Anza College students (L to R) Anna Hernandez and Fabilo Quiroz protest in front of the state Capitol on Monday.

Protesting with pride — Student Senate for California Community Colleges President Alex Pader leads the march to the Capitol at the March in March rally at Sacramento on Monday.

Passionate outrage — Foothill College student Etienne Bowie speaks to the crowd about budget cuts and how they affect students at the March in March rally in Sacramento on Monday.

On top of shoulders — A Sierra College student sits on another student’s shoulders while protesting budget cuts at the March in March rally in Sacramento on Monday.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE

7

Humble star earns state recognition

LEGENDARY FACE

Barnes receives Hall of Fame bid

By Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER

rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com

ADAM OLIVER / THE ADVOCATE

Greatness — Equipment manager Benny Barnes will be inducted into the California Community College Athletic Association Hall of Fame on March 30. The former CCC football player appeared in three Super Bowls for the Dallas Cowboys and two Rose Bowls with Stanford University.

When walking through the Gym Annex Building, one might see him performing his duties as the athletic equipment manager.

But Benny Barnes is more than his job description.

On March 30, Barnes will be inducted into the California Community College Athletic Association Hall of Fame for his hard work, dedication and success in the sports world.

The award ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. at the San Mateo Marriott Hotel.

“When I was told I was nominated it felt wonderful. I consider it a great honor,” Barnes said.

Born in Lufkin, Texas in 1951, his family moved to Richmond soon after. He was a star athlete at Kennedy High School and came to Contra Costa College where he was a two-sport (football and track) all-conference player.

After a year at CCC he transferred to Stanford University where his teams won two Rose Bowls. After receiving his bachelor’s degree at Stanford, he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys.

“He has all the credentials needed to be inducted into the Hall of Fame,” CCC President McKinley Williams said. “His example of hard work is something that all our students can learn from.”

Williams said he has known Barnes for many years.

“He’s always been a gentleman, a hard worker and a real team player,” Williams said.

At the age of 17, Barnes said he didn’t quite know what he wanted

to do, when Tom Kinnard, his middle and high school football coach, persuaded him to attend CCC. “I’m glad I came to CCC. This award has a lot of handprints on it and they belong to the people who guided me,” Barnes said. “They helped me get to Stanford and become a better student.”

In Dallas, he played 11 seasons as a starting defensive back, played in three Super Bowls and was a member of the 1977 World Champion Cowboys.

After his NFL career, Barnes moved back to Richmond.

“When I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would say Chet Kincaid,” Barnes said, referring to a character portrayed by Bill Cosby in a TV show that was on the air from 1969-71.

Kincaid was a PE teacher who returned to his high school to coach after a successful sports career.

“I have always wanted to help kids the way I was helped by others. When I came home from Dallas, I would always come to CCC and visit J.D. Banks, who at that time was the athletic equipment manager,” Barnes said.

Barnes said Banks, who played basketball at CCC in the 1950s before joining the Harlem Clowns and eventually returning to the college, would often cook for students who were hungry and was a shoulder they could lean on.

So it was no surprise when Barnes was hired to take over Banks’ position when he retired.

Barnes has been the equipment manager for 14 years at CCC and has earned respect and admiration from his colleagues.

Comet Athletic Director John Wade nominated Barnes for the CCCAA Hall of Fame. “(Barnes) could be doing something else but chose to give back,” Wade said. “He is an excellent employee, a great guy and a really good person.”

Comets continue to sacrifice games

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

mlastra.advocate@gmail.com

This year’s softball season has been, in a word, chaotic.

The Comets are having one of their toughest seasons under coach Ed Miller as the team has struggled to maintain enough players to field a team and has canceled 15 of its 19 preseason games, many of which were scheduled doubleheaders.

“It’s difficult when you are trying to build a team,” said Miller, now in his third season as the team’s coach. “This is a year where we have had a lot of adversity, but the team I have is working hard and they’re all still in school.”

Contra Costa College (0-4 overall) cancelled 15 preseason games because of rainy weather conditions and not having enough players to compete due to ineligibility.

Currently the Comets have 10 players who are eligible to play.

“With women’s sports, it takes a lot

to have a perfect team,” Athletic Director John Wade said. “In women’s sports, numbers dictate success along with injuries and discipline, so when you have a team of 10 players, injuries and disciplinary actions can (hurt) the team.”

Miller removed a player and had several others quit the team prior to the beginning of practice in January after members of his team were involved in a fight off campus.

Current players say they are still bothered by the altercation.

“We try not to let what goes on off the field affect us,” freshman infielder Jessica Miller said. “We are trying to do something positive.”

Adding to the distractions, the Comets have struggled to maintain a full squad, as several players failed to sign up for the required 12 units to stay on the team.

Another problem the team faces is the lack of experienced players as the majority of the team has little or no softball experience.

“The (players) I have out here may not be the best talent wise,” Miller said, “but they have good chemistry and that is what makes winners to me.”

Miller and players agree that the canceled games have given the Comets more time to practice together as the team continues to search for its identity. “(Canceling these games) gives us more time to practice,” Jessica Miller, no relation to her coach, said.

“It’s only preseason games, so (cancelling the games) is not really important,” Ed Miller said. “A lot of teams cancel (preseason games) because of weather conditions or being short of players.”

When a team cancels a game, it must make sure to notify the opposing squad otherwise the team could be fined by referees for a late forfeit.

“So far we haven’t been billed for any games that have been canceled,” Wade said.

“The referees can fine the school if the forfeit isn’t timely.”

The Comet game most recently canceled was against Mission College on March 5.

Miller’s short roster and coaching complications with Mission led to the umpires calling off the game.

After taking losses against Santa Rosa Junior College (twice), City College of San Francisco and San Joaquin Delta College, the Comets will have their hands full entering their third and fourth Bay Valley Conference games as they host Solano Community College (9-4-1) on Thursday at home. The team played a doubleheader at College of Marin after press time on Tuesday.

Despite the team’s lack of experience, several players are satisfied with just being on the team and able to compete.

“If the (less experienced) players weren’t playing, we wouldn’t have a team this year,” freshman shortstop Myeisha Ellison said.

Throughout the adversity the team has faced, Miller said he is proud of the 10 players he has as they show up to practice and put out a strong effort there and in games.

CCC loses to Mariners, offense fails to deliver

By Rodney Woodson

said of Friday’s loss. “We weren’t as good as we should have been. rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com We were dropping fly balls and we KENTFIELD — Despite scor- didn’t execute our fundamentals ing three runs in the sixth inning, correctly. The sun played a little Contra Costa College lost its first part in our defensive struggles.”

Marin finished conference game of the year 7-4 at the College the game with 12 hits of Marin on Friday.

ScoreBoard against CCC, includThe Comets (6-10 ing three doubles and overall, 4-1 Bay Valley Mariners 7 two triples.

Conference) came into “We came out flat,” Comets 4 the game riding a threecoach Marvin Webb game winning streak Next game: said. “We didn’t have due to solid pitching Thursday at the same energy we and strong defensive Los Medanos, had been playing with efforts. In Friday’s 2 p.m. the last three games game, however, CCC and it showed. We gave up seven runs to were nonchalant getthe Mariners (11-6 overall, 3-2 ting after ground balls and we BVC). missed a few flies.”

The Comets play their next After taking a one-run lead in game Thursday against Los the top of the first, CCC gave up Medanos College (5-11 overall, 3- two runs to the Mariners in the 2 BVC) at 2 p.m. in Pittsburg. bottom of the inning. Over the next “We weren’t getting to any of few innings the Mariners scored our (defensive) positions,” Comet five unanswered runs behind the third baseman Cameron Doorn solid hitting of outfielder Devon STAFF WRITER

Zenn.

In the top of the sixth inning, the Comets finally answered by scoring three runs.

“We showed a little hunger,” Comet first baseman Trevon Prince said. “We wanted it in that inning.

We were a little more aggressive at bat but you can’t just play hard for one inning, you have to play all nine.”

After cutting the lead to one run, 5-4, CCC continued its struggles, giving up two runs in the bottom-half of the inning.

During the final three innings CCC batters only managed to get one single and struck out five times.

“We didn’t swing the bat with any desire today,” Webb said.

Aside from the good at bats they had in the sixth inning, the Comets struggled at the plate as a total of 11 batters struck out.

“We need to swing at better pitches and take a better approach at the plate,” Doorn said.

QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE

On the mound — Comet Chris Lovejoy pitches during CCC’s 7-4 loss to College of Marin on Friday in Kentfield. The Comets dropped to 4-1 in conference play.

8 THE ADVOCATE Unleashed

Movies

This week: “Bill Cunningham New York” (PG) “Paul” (R) “The Lincoln Lawyer” (R) “Limitless” (PG-13) “The Music Never Stopped” (PG)

DVDs

This week: “Sharktopus” (PG) “The Switch” (PG-13) “Hemming way’s Garden of Eden” (PG) “A Shine Of Rainbows” (PG) “The Fighter” (R)

CDs

This week: The Dodos: “No Color” J. Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.): “Several Shades of Why” Rise Against: “Endgame” Smoking Popes: “This Is Only A Test”

l WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 2011

SCENE

Coffee shop brews fresh expectations Catahoula drinks attract customers

the environment and educates the coffee drinking community as to what good coffee is.”

This coffee shop embraces the quality and practice put into brewBy George Morin ing a great cup of coffee. The cost ART DIRECTOR gmorin.advocate@gmail.com of a cup of coffee is a mere $2.

But elaborate drinks can cost up to $4. Catahoula is open from 7 The prospect of grabbing a cup a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through of coffee in the morning seems Friday and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. like an easy choice for most with Saturday and Sunday. franchises like Starbucks and The black, rich and comfortPeet’s Coffee. ing flavor of the coffee sits in the But those mouth and coats all its taste buds. foodreview seeking a One can say it is almost refreshunique and ing to come across a brew unique gratifying enough to not make you quiver brew of coffee by drinking it without cream or any day of the “Catahoula sugar. week should Coffee Company The strength of caffeine in and Roastery” try Catahoula Catahoula brews outweighs com★★★★★ Coffee petitors — it is definitely one Coffee Company and Cuisine: strong cup of coffee.

Where: 12472 Roastery at San Pablo Ave. The coffee house stands out 12472 San Richmond with its bright orange walls, Price Range: $2 Pablo Ave. in fences made of rock and its rigid - $4 Richmond. metal-worked Catahoula sign.

Beating the As customers enter the building, taste of most workers are quick to offer help. chain coffee The walls of the room are stocked shops, this quaint coffee house with giant bags of coffee beans waves goodbye to the monotony from Africa, South America and of Starbucks or Peet’s coffees and Indonesia. sets its sight on taste and uniqueThe coffee house offers an ness of brew and roast. intimate and relaxing atmosphere With its slogan “no char,” with its quiet, embracing music meaning that the coffee is not playing in the background. burnt or over roasted, it shows the The seats and tables are usually baristas take care of every cup full with regulars making their they’ve poured since it the shot daily pit stops to pick up coffee, opened in 2008. but one can also sit outside and “I’m just a simple man who fell enjoy a cup of coffee conversing in love with coffee and the roastwith the many patrons sitting and ing process,” Catahoula owner enjoy the outside air with their Timber Manhart said. “My goal brews. is to deliver quality coffee that Sitting behind the counter is a supports the farmers, sustains giant coffee roaster where, every

‘Port Entropy’ uses upbeat instrumentals in 4th album

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Morning ritual — Royal Import Coffee delivery man Rocky Archuleta enjoys a cup of coffee after delivering coffee beans to the Catahoula Coffee Company and Roastery in Richmond on March 11.

morning, the workers right in front of your eyes, roast many different coffee beans to their different perfections.

This is a sight to see compared to coffee at other shops that is just shipped and put in a coffee filter to be served.

This coffee house holds many signature house flavors. From the clever names of the many coffee brews ranging from the sweet taste of the “Lola,” “Ricky’s Buzz” and “Mokka” blends — all names inspired by the owner’s pet

dogs — to the strongly caffeinated and slightly bitter taste of the “Butkus” blend.

Even with its more elaborate drinks, it stands out from the mundane coffee shops, with its “Cubano” shots — a pressed espresso shot brewed at the bottom of a cup of coffee or latte to add an extra kick of caffeine and flavor.

To all coffee enthusiasts out there, this is a place to truly find what you have been looking for in a 16-ounce cup.

ADVERTISEMENT

$500

TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIP

To learn if you qualify call 800-746-0353.

By Faythe Del Rosario

on Feb. 15.

Tokumaru draws the lyrifrosario.advocate@gmail.com cal basis for his music from a dream journal he maintains Multi-instrumentalist almost daily.

Shugo Tokumaru’s fourth The 11th track on the album, “Port Entropy,” is a album, “Orange,” induces little jewel that shines, but it sounds creating an imaginaappears dull when compared to his previous tive and dream-like scene at a carnival on a sunny day. work. cdreview The song starts off with Being an avid collector a toy piano being played by Tokumaru. The delightful of more than and distinctive sound cre100 reguates something whimsical. lar and toy Listening to “Orange,” the instruments, “Port Entropy” ★★★★★ song does not only bring a Tokumaru Artist: Shugo colorful mental image, but incorporates Tokumaru it would sound perfect in an the use of Genre: Indie Pop these assorted immersible and fun video Label: Polyvinyl Records game. gadgets into Release Date: The majority of Tokumaru’s his songs.

Feb. 15 lyrics are sung in his native With such tongue, Japanese, but it is not an extensive selection, this necessary to know the language to listen to his work.

Japanese musician brings In one of the more preaudiences a unique perspective to experimental pop with dominantly vocalized songs on the album, “Laminate,” the strong folk and indie tendeninstruments render a melodic, cies.

“Port Entropy” contains 13 constant moving setting that slows down toward the end. tracks that can make almost anyone smile. Listening to the The way Tokumaru sings album takes one to a place of accompanies the instruments in an expressive approach. instant nostalgia — like this The emotion portrayed in album was meant to take the listener back to the good times this song will make the listener wonder what these lyrics of childhood.

The recordings take listen- translate to in English.

Overall, “Port Entropy” is ers on an upbeat and cheery worth a listen. Do not let the car ride set on cruise control. difference in language be the Although the album was deciding factor in whether to released in Japan almost a year ago, “Port Entropy” made listen to Tokumaru’s recordings or not. its debut in the United States STAFF WRITER

Telekenesis: “12 Desperate Straight Lines”

Games

This week: Homefront (PS3, XBOX 360, PC) Trackmania: Build to Race (Wii) Yakuza 4 (PS3) LEGO Star Wars III (DS) Shogun 2: Total War (PC) Editor’s note: This column lists popular new (and upcoming) releases for the week.

WE’LL NEVER PUT YOUR BUSINESS DEGREE DREAMS ON HOLD. Budget crunches may have other schools cutting courses, but Brandman is expanding.

We’re adding business classes to meet the increasing demand.

Brandman partners with community colleges to make transferring credits simple, and that can make earning your business degree a lot more affordable.

Call

800-746-0353

Click brandman.edu/business Follow us

WALNUT CREEK CAMPUS EARN YOUR BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN BUSINESS ON CAMPUS OR ONLINE. EMPHASES AVAILABLE IN: • Accounting • Entrepreneurship • Finance • General Business • Human Resources • Information Systems Management • Marketing • Organizational Communication • Organizational Leadership • Supply Chain Systems

TM

CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY SYSTEM Brandman University is a non-profit institution accredited by, and a member of, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).