CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B campus beat ◆ page 3
Saved
CMYK
‘Fast Five’ continues ride
Grant funds dental program
Fifth action installment entertains audiences
CMYK
scene ◆ page 8
sports ◆ pages 7
Athletics hosts feast Crab feed helps raise funds for department
VOL. 96, NO. 20
SINCE 1950 8 PAGES, ONE COPY FREE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM
THE STUDENT VOICE OF CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE, SAN PABLO, CALIF.
Nursing slots reduced
BIN LADEN KILLED
Will al-Qaeda, terrorists seek ‘retaliation’ against the United States?
By Sam Attal
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
sattal.advocate@gmail.com
Those who have seats in the college’s nursing program know just how lucky they are. Students who wish to enroll in the high-demand program must meet minimum GPA requirements and pass certain classes before they can actually apply. And even though the hundreds of students who fill out applications each year meet the requirements, only a select few are accepted into the program through the random lottery system in place. For the fall, it’s even going to be harder to get in as the small number of slots has been slashed more than half. The numbers have dropped from 65 slots from fall 2010 to just 32 filled for this upcoming fall. “I feel terrible that there are students who want to come into the profession and we can only serve 32 of them,” nursing department Chairwoman Cheri Etheredge said. The decision to cut the number of slots is not based on funding for students, but the salaries of the department’s faculty. Etheredge said the decision came after college officials announced
edit orial The college must find alternatives
In order to save the nursing program from experiencing more cuts, college administrators need to seek other options for funding, such as grants. One of the best in the Bay Area, the college’s nursing program cannot afford to lose faculty and openings for students.
page 2
■ SEE NURSING: Page 3
Soccer athlete murdered Student falls victim in local shooting, dies By Adam Oliver NEWS EDITOR
aoliver.advocate@gmail.com PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE
By the numbers:
2,998
deaths on Sept. 11
By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR
U
awaite.advocate@gmail.com
pon hearing the news of United States forces killing Osama bin Laden in a raid on Sunday evening in Pakistan, most Contra Costa College students did not feel happiness, but were left questioning the safety of the country and what will happen next. While acknowledging bin Laden’s death brought closure to many of his victim’s families, CCC students shared the belief that it will not end terrorism altogether and that the violence will only escalate. “(His death) won’t stop terrorism. Terrorism isn’t one person; it’s a movement against imperialism,” political science major Mehdi Tasbihi said. “The two sides need to sit down and talk with each
other in order to work it out.” Fear of retaliation Computer science major Francia Garcia said when she found out bin Laden had been killed, she immediately felt scared that al Qaeda would retaliate. Cultural Anthropology professor Jayne Smithson said, “His death will stall terrorism for a while, but retaliation will hap■ SEE BIN LADEN: Page 3
1,549
U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan
nine
years spent hunting bin Laden Source: U.S. Central Command
■ SEE MANRIQUEZ: Page 3
CMYK
Students, faculty react to killing of leader behind Sept. 11 attacks
Stepping outside of a friend’s house to answer a phone call, a Contra Costa College soccer player was killed when a hail of gunfire erupted in his direction on the night of April 8. Andrew “Andy” Manriquez, 19, was competing in a FIFA soccer video game tournament with friends in a detached bedroom on the 1400 block of Dunn Avenue in Richmond just moments before. “He got a phone call from somebody and that’s when it happened,” said longtime friend Cassius Botelho, who was with Manriquez that night. “I was there until his last breath.” Around 10:30 p.m., a pair of gunmen heading northbound on 15th Street toward Dunn Avenue began firing on the residence and two cars in front, hitting Manriquez
Manriquez Manriquez played as a midfielder for the men’s soccer team last fall. He studied astronomy and art. He was gunned down in front of his friend’s house in Richmond when he stepped out to answer a phone call on April 8. Police and family say he was not the intended target. For obituary see page 4
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.”
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011 VOL. 96, NO. 20 ●
Editorial Slicing chances
Robert H. Jackson U.S. Supreme Court Justice 1943 Sam Attal editor-in-chief George Morin art director Dariush Azmoudeh online editor Lamar James associate editor Cassidy Gooding opinion editor Malcolm Lastra sports editor Hilberth Ibarra Adam Oliver Alexandra Waite news editors Jermaine Harrison circulation manager Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Christopher Clausen April Halog Iris Jett Horace Jordan Angelina Rucobo Janit Saechao Jesslyn Sherrod Rodney Woodson Staff photographers 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, 2011 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, MAY 4, 2011
Nursing enrollment needs to be re-stitched
F
or many years, one of the most sought after nursing programs by students in the Bay Area has been Contra Costa College’s. The program has been one of, if not the, most prestigious programs offered in the area due to its quality and affordability, nursing department Chairwoman Cheri Etheredge said. Despite the program’s popularity and success, it too has suffered from the current budget crisis as college officials made the decision to slash enrollment for the program in early April. Up until last fall, the program accepted 65 students. Now the chances of being admitted to the program are even more slim as the program is down to 32 slots. Before students can even be considered for admission, they must complete a certain number of prerequisite classes, and have maintained a certain GPA. Getting accepted into the program is no easy task either as hundreds of students who apply fulfill the requirements, yet are limited by the small number of available slots that are filled through a random lottery system. It gets tougher because the program’s faculty will be reduced from 10 to five professors as its full-time staff retire over time until May 2012. Their positions are not being filled, thus further reducing student slots so the program still maintains a state-mandated facultyto-student ratio. These cuts stand as an injustice to the program, prospective and current students and, ultimately, the community the college serves. The college must find alternatives to alleviate the budget predicament rather than slashing away at one of its most successful and beneficial programs. Finding ways to fund the program, such as obtaining grants, could possibly save the nursing program from having to cut seats from its classrooms. For example, the dental assisting program, which was recently threatened by cuts last month, was able to stay afloat for another year after fighting and receiving a grant. If administrators must cut, then they must not do so without looking at all of the other possibilities for funding. The program is preparing future nurses who will potentially improve the overall health of citizens in general and, specifically, in the East Bay. By not replacing full-time faculty when they retire, it will not only hurt the quality of instruction, but also the hospitals that rely on CCC’s well-trained students to fill job openings. If this negative trend continues and students are hurt as more and more faculty decide to retire, CCC will no longer be able serve its community as it has for decades by training students to become well-educated nurses.
JON RUNNING / THE ADVOCATE
■ Gaming
Network shutdown highlights inferiority
S
ince April 20, an entire faction of diehard gamers have been without their bread and butter. PlayStation 3’s online network was completely shut down in one of the largest data breaches in history, orchestrated by stillunknown culprits. Credit-card numbers, personal information and “Call of Duty” practice have thus been threatened for two weeks, spawning doubt about the reliability of Sony’s platform, while users have experienced and exhibited a mix of astonishment, embarrassment and devastation to their online social lives. All these things would have been avoided if they had pledged their loyalty to Microsoft’s Xbox 360. Since the rivalry began with PS3’s launch in November of 2006, the Xbox 360 has remained the superior console. When it first hit the market, Sony’s upgrade from the muchloved PlayStation 2 cost twice as much as Microsoft’s ever had, boasting bloated innovations like cuttingedge graphics and a Blu-Ray player built in that only a few games or disks could really implement at the time. The most useful features of the PS3, including high definition compatibility, live-streaming from Netflix accounts and music services are all offered on the 360. In addition, Sony fans were struck hard blows when soon after the launch of their brand-new console, games that were traditionally only offered through Sony platforms, like additions to
swirled about the two networks. While Microsoft users argue the pluses of a faster, more reliable service, Sony players have their one tired rebuttal, repeating over and over that their online network, though inferior, is at the Final Fantasy franchise, least free. were also released through This two-week shutdown Microsoft. of PSN, though, has finally Even newer innovations, tipped the scales of the dispute. The personal informalike motion-based gaming through the Xbox Kinect and tion of 77 million users has been in danger and Sony has PlayStation Move have left Microsoft the reigning king. lost monetary amounts that some peg in the billions. Despite all these things, There has been speculahowever, the largest discreption that the crash is actuancy between the two consoles has always been within ally an attempt to move PS3 users to subscribe to the new the online networks. PlayStation Plus Network, For about $50 a year, an which can be bought like Xbox 360 owner can also Live and promises perks and be a Gold Member of Xbox more security. Other rumors Live, granting them access blame the Internet group to the Marketplace, communication with their friend Anonymous for the hack, citing Sony’s persecution of list, Netflix streaming, Last. another hacker in 2010 as FM music streaming and of reason for their revenge. course online game-play. In an e-mail sent out over PlayStation’s Network (PSN), offers similar features the weekend, representatives from Sony promised users for no charge. However, the nature of the service, riddled that some services would be backed up “sometime within with slow download speeds the next two weeks.” Netflix and known for its lags and is now running for many random disconnects, hardly consoles, and online gamemakes up for the fact that it play is supposedly next. is free. However, at this point, Also, as just anyone with it looks like PS3 nerds will a console also has access have to brave the outside to online gameplay, finding world for at least another few serious opponents or teamdays, fending off the rather mates while playing multiloud gloating from the wily player titles is much more Microsoft ring. difficult than on the 360, Either that or convert. which matches players with people of similar skill-levels Cassidy Gooding is opinwho have paid for a competition they are obviously more ion editor of The Advocate. Contact her at cgooding. invested in. advocate@gmail.com. For years, debate has
cassidygooding
CampusComment
What is your reaction to the death of Osama bin Laden?
“It’s about time. I’ve been anticipating the death of Osama since the fourth grade. The real question is: Is it a hoax?”
“I’m kind of worried. Now we don’t know what’s going to happen with their (al-Qaeda) leader being terminated.”
“I think that it closes a chapter, but it also opens new possibilities for who is going to take his place.”
psychology
Steven Lockhart kinsiology
FAYTHE DELROSARIO AND JESSE SUTHERLAND / THE ADVOCATE
Johnathan Kidwell engineering
“I’m glad he’s out of the picture now. I hope there won’t be any repercussions from terrorists because of it.”
“About time. It’s kind of old news because nothing has been done in so long.” Darrel Joseph
Hector Ortiz Cody O’Neal
“I’m fine with it.”
film
Gerald Johnson microbiology
graphic arts
CAMPUS BEAT accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE
Receive breaking news and updates by following The Advocate’s Twitter account, AccentAdvocate.
Newsline ■ ROCKIN’
Knox to host performance The drama department will present “Rockin’ at Richmond High 1966” today, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9:30 p.m. in the Knox Center. The showcase depicts the history, music, and what makes Contra Costa County what it is today. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $5 for children under 10 and $8 for students and seniors. For more information, call 510235-7800, ext. 4274.
■ FESTIVAL
Cinco de Mayo celebrated
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE
Program temporarily saved Grant provides funds, extra year for dental classes
said. “We’re just truly happy to be able to provide our community with a quality program.” Many current and prospective students expressed joy after hearing of the grant’s approval Friday. “We’re very happy the program By Sam Attal is going on for one more year,” EDITOR-IN-CHIEF dental assisting student Takima sattal.advocate@gmail.com Davis said. “The dental program The dental assisting program provides really good skills and has been temporarily saved — by knowledge when you go out looka $302,000 grant — from being ing for jobs. You’ll have all your suspended indefinitely beginning basic needs.” spring 2012. Student Sierra Gonzales said Thanks to the grant provided by she felt devastated when she heard the Department of Labor and the that the program was shutting Unity Council down because it is much cheaper of Alameda, the “It’s a blessing. It’s program, which and more qualiwas set to be a good experience to fied than private terminated to proprietary have it open and it’s and help the college schools in the area. save money at going to help in the a time when it “I was disaplong run to fulfill my pointed because faces a $4 million cut, will dreams to become a I had my applisurvive another cation ready. dental assistant. My I was really year and is currently accepting wish has come true.” bummed out,” Gonzales said. new students She said for the summer, Shaima Davis, dental assistafter she heard student that the grant ing department Chairwoman Sandra Everhart money was approved for the dental assisting program, her interest in said. “When I found out I was not the program sparked once again. only happy that the program would She will be enrolling in the sumbe continuing but it would be with- mer. out the college supporting it,” she “I was definitely excited
The La Raza studies department and Puente Club are hosting the CCC celebration of Cinco de Mayo in the Recreation Room from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m. on Thursday. All are welcome to join the Latin community on campus and attend this historical celebration of victory. For more information, contact ■ FROM: Page 1 the ASU office at 510-235-7800, pen. (The U.S. has) to prepare for those retaliatory attempts.” ext. 4237. Psychology department Chairwoman Mickelle Arnold said she was also frightened when thinking ■ LITERATURE about how bin Laden’s many followers and loved ones will react. “It’s very disturbing, the thought of how he is still a threat now,” Arnold said. Student Ricky McCloud said he The Annual Booksale of the was unsure whether to worry about CCC Friends of the Library will retaliation efforts by terrorist groups, be held May 10-12 in the Library/ but the country should not turn its Learning Resources Building on back on it. campus. The FOL member’s only sale The next step will be on Tuesday from noon to After learning of bin Laden’s death, 6 p.m. The public sale begins on several students asked themselves what May 11 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and was to come. continues on May 12 from 9 a.m. Automotive collision repair major to 2 p.m. Mike Bledsoe said he thought the For more information, contact outcome of the raid was a success, Judith Flum at 510-235-7800, ext. and that now the U.S. should bring the 4445. troops home to finally be with their families. However, most students are not as optimistic about an end to the war. ■ SPEECH Some saw the raid as a catalyst that will fuel more fighting in the Middle East. “The war on terrorism will never end. In the past 10 years, it has only begun,” Tasbihi said. The speech department will host Social science department its Intramural Speech Tournament Chairman Manu Ampim agreed the in LA-100 on May 12 from 3 to attack against bin Laden will prolong the war, as it has given the U.S. more 6 p.m. For more information, contact confidence and overall moral to conConnie Anderson at 510-235-7800, tinue invading. ext. 4544. “(The U.S.’s goal) is to go after more terrorists, but they have bred more terrorists seeking revenge. It’ll be interesting to see what happens next,” he said. Student Alena Duplishev said now that bin Laden’s dead, Americans Saturday, April 2: should move forward with their lives A non-injury traffic collision and not live in the past. occurred and caused damage to subject’s vehicle and college prop- The cost of war erty in Lot 2. According to a Congressional Research Service report for Congress, Monday, April 4: the combined spending for the Iraq and An intoxicated male was con- Afghanistan wars came out to $165 tacted on Mission Bell Drive and billion in 2010 with estimates at $168 transported to the hospital. billion for 2011.
because I can get back on track,” Gonzales said. “I was really happy that they found the money.” Davis said her sister Shaima was “ecstatic” to hear that she had another chance at becoming a dental assistant through Contra Costa College. Shaima said, “When my sister got involved in the program she inspired me to get involved in it (as well). “It’s a blessing. It’s a good experience to have it open and it’s going to help in the long run to fulfill my dreams to become a dental assistant. My wish has come true.” Everhart said she now has to reach all the students who expressed interest in the program but were turned away earlier when it seemed that the program was nearing an end. “We’re in a recruiting frenzy to get a full class by June 13,” she said Everhart said the $302,000 grant funds not only cover the program’s operating budget, but the upgrades necessary to keep the equipment on par with the industry standards set by dental offices. “I wanted to make sure that the equipment would hold up for another year,” Everhart said. The grant will help the program meet infection and control guidelines with the addition of new operator, assistant and patient chairs as well as new dental carts
Bin Laden | Killed
Booksale to be held in Library
Tournament open to students
CrimeWatch
“(His death) won’t stop terrorism. Terrorism isn’t one person; it’s a movement against imperialism. The two sides need to sit down and talk with each other in order to work it out.” Mehdi Tasbihi,
political sciences major
Ampim said billions of dollars are currently going toward the war effort, which is money that could be put into education and other areas of the struggling U.S. economy. Tasbihi said, “(The war is) a moneymaking machine. They charge taxpayers and then buy bombs. Osama was a useless asset.” Ampim said the increase in gas prices is also a result of the unrest in the Middle East. “While the U.S. economy is still in terrible shape, we’re still fighting,” he said. A recurring pattern Ampim said history illuminates why people do what they do. And that is why predicting what the U.S. will do in this situation is not hard. “It’s the same policy the U.S. has instituted for more than 150 years,” he said. “A policy of cowboys, to go in and shoot ’em up. I don’t think it will ever stop.” Smithson said the American concept of justice is based on the assignment and punishment of guilt, and what the killing of bin Laden means in that perspective is that justice has been served. “He believed in his mission, yet he had horrific consequences from the rest of the world,” she said. Ampim said this “shoot ’em up” mentality has been going on since the 1890s, and what is happening right now in the Middle East is U.S. imperialism.
and lights. Student Darlicia Ross said the addition of new equipment makes her feel confident about being fully prepared for a dental assisting job after she graduates. “The (current) equipment is working fine but it’s good to have updated equipment,” Ross said. “In dental offices, the equipment is more updated so when I get a job we’ll be familiar with the equipment in the office.” Everhart said although the grant will last for only another year, it gives her time to find more funding. “That gives us another program cycle so we can find more external funding,” she said. “It gave us momentum.” Vice President Carol Maga said although she is happy to hear that the program has another year of operation, there is a big chance that further funding may not be available. Maga said, “I think it will be back to being close to being put on suspension until our funding improves. I wish that wasn’t the case, but that’s reality.” Maga said the students who will be enrolling in the program need to take their chances seriously. “Students who come into the program this summer need to make sure they finish this year,” she said.
Manriquez ■ FROM: Page 1
through a wrought-iron fence, and missing a few individuals who had just arrived, Richmond Police Detective Eric Haupt said. Manriquez was pronounced dead at the scene. Police, family and friends all agree that the bullet that struck Manriquez was most likely not meant for him. “It wasn’t intentionally for him. He wasn’t that kind of person,” Botelho said. “He was in the wrong place at the wrong time; that’s just how it is.” After another shooting last weekend at the same residence, detectives suspect it was the house or neighborhood being targeted and not Manriquez. “We do not believe the person who was struck was specifically targeted,” Lt. Mark Gagan said. “We have had prior contact at that house but we’re not sure of the motive.” However, the investigation is still progressing, Haupt said, and the homicide “is definitely a case that can be solved.” Detectives are continuing to investigate strong leads in the homicide Manriquez, a San Pablo resident and De Anza High School graduate, was taking astronomy and art appreciation classes among his spring semester course load at CCC. He also played midfielder on the men’s soccer team last fall. “He was bright-eyed, he paid attention. I felt him as a positive presence,” astronomy professor Jon Celesia said. “Here’s a young man who was really growing and really dedicated to his education and life. It’s very sad.” Art Appreciation professor Mark Leavitt said his class was stunned by the news of Manriquez’s passing. “We had five minutes of silence, and a few tears were shed. He was giving a very worthy try, and it was dou-
bly tragic,” he said. ”I think (the students) were sad because he was such a young forwardmoving kid.” Men’s soccer coach Rudy Zeller said, “It was a totally senseless and cynical “He was act. He was a wondera brightful young eyed, he man, full of energy and paid attenlife.” Z e l l e r tion. I felt said that him as a in wake of positive Manriquez’s death, his presence. teammates Here’s have collaborated a young to fundraise for the fam- man who ily and have committed was really the coming growing season to their slain and really teammate. dedicated “(Playing soccer) is to his eduwhat he cation and loved to do, life. It’s and that’s what he very sad.” would want us to do,” Jon Celesia, B o t e l h o astronomy professaid. sor Outside of his own education, Manriquez coached a mixed-level soccer team at Bayview Elementary School in San Pablo, where he taught and inspired children in his passion. His team composed a video slideshow memorializing him and sang a song in his remembrance service, Manriquez’s brother Santiago Manriquez, Jr. said. “Right now they don’t feel like playing soccer anymore because he was the best coach,” he said.
Wednesday, April 6.: A victim reported her tire flat and a note on the windshield stating why.
Nursing | Student opportunities minimized
Thursday, April 7: A victim reported her bag stolen out of her locker in the AA Building.
■ FROM: Page 1
Saturday, April 9: An individual was injured on the football field and transported to the hospital for further treatment. Thursday, April 21: A subject was stopped on a traffic stop and it was determined he was driving with a suspended license. The subject was cited and released.
3
earlier this semester that the district cannot afford to replace nursing faculty members who are retiring or have retired. By the end of spring 2012, the number of full-time faculty members will drop from its usual 10 to only five. Nursing program Director Maryanne WernerMcCullough, who plans to retire in May 2012, said her position is the only one being filled back in with a full-time hire. State law requires that to run a nursing program, institutions must have a full-time director to remain accredited. In order to maintain stable classroom environments and meet standards set by the state, the reduction in faculty resulted in the reduction of open student slots to balance the ratio. “We’re juggling to maintain quality,” WernerMcCullough said. “It’s going to be very tight next year.”
Thursday, April 28: A female student fell while in the Student Dining Room. — Alexandra Waite Roadblock Students who weren’t picked this year felt the burn. Student Christina Rathavongsa said she feels
like the slot reduction is a huge roadblock in the way of her life plans. “It’s puts a block on my education and now I have to wait,” she said. “There’s nothing else for me to do. She said she favors Contra Costa College’s nursing program over the other schools not only because of its proximity and cost, but also the quality of education provided. “The program’s really good at Contra Costa (College),” Rathavongsa said. Still, she is considering other schools if she continues to be rejected in the lottery. “It makes me feel like it’s wasting a bit of my time,” Rathavongsa said.
“If they cared that much, they would make something happen, but instead they’re just too comfortable and they don’t want to do anything about it,” she said. “It’s ridiculous that we don’t have the funds to have more students.” Etheredge said the program’s future is in the hands of administrators who are very careful about where they spend. “At this point the administration doesn’t want to replace anybody,” Etheredge said.
A proud faculty Historically, when CCC’s nursing students have taken their state board exams, they pass with scores in the high 90s, Etheredge said. “We provide a wonderful education for our ‘Cutting the best’ students,” Etheredge said. “They come out very Student Melody Saechao said there has to be well prepared.” another way to fund teachers, such as through She said knowing that the program is being hurt is “devastating” for the faculty as well. grants that the college might receive. “They’re cutting the best,” Saechao said. “It’s just a very sad time. We’ve worked “We need teachers like that.” together for a really long time,” Etheredge said. She said she thinks college administrators “We’ve built up this program to be very well are apathetic in how they make cuts. respected. It’s sad to see what’s happened to it.”
4 THE ADVOCATE
l WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011
Midfielder served as role model
CAMPUS BEAT
By Adam Oliver NEWS EDITOR
aoliver.advocate@gmail.com
Andrew Manriquez, a Contra Costa College sophomore and Comet midfielder, had a youthful vigor and a passion for soccer he couldn’t keep to himself. SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE Outside of his own education, Manriquez taught and Always remembered — Andrew Manriquez’s family members have set up a memorial in their living room coached a league soccer team at Bayview Elementary School at their San Pablo home. Manriquez was shot and killed outside of a friend’s house in Richmond. in San Pablo where he amused, inspired and was adored by his players. But when the news touched down that their coach would by a lot of people, he touched a lot of people,” said Botelho, he said. “At times when it’s quiet, I just think about him and never be coming back, Manriquez’s players were stunned a fellow Comet midfielder who grew up playing with start crying.” into near disbelief. The sport that they so loved now seemed Manriquez. Like many CCC student-athletes, Manriquez was in the unappealing. Men’s soccer coach Rudy Zeller said Manriquez was a process of fully acclimating himself to college and was “He would always make them laugh, and now they don’t “wonderful young man” as well as a respectful and commit- showing acute progress. want to play soccer because he isn’t going to be their coach ted player. “He was still really figuring out what he was doing, “He was there full of life Thursday, and Friday night he but he had the right attitude. It’s a real shame,” astronomy anymore,” brother Santiago Manriquez Jr. said. Manriquez was struck down by gunfire in Richmond on was no longer with us,” men’s soccer coach Rudy Zeller department Chairman Jon Celesia said. said. “It was a totally senseless and cynical act.” April 8. He was 19. “He was giving a very worthy try and it was tragic,” said “He was a very good example for the kids of the commuFrancisco Navarro, who played midfielder alongside Mark Leavitt, Manriquez’s Art Appreciation teacher. “I think nity,” said Manriquez’s mother, Juana Hueto, choking back Manriquez, said, “When I found out, I couldn’t believe it. (the students) were sad because it was such a young forwardtears. “He liked helping kids a lot, they would tell him he was I said, ‘It can’t be him. It can’t be him.’ He wasn’t a person moving kid.” a good person, a good friend.” who went out looking for trouble.” Manriquez’s mother said he planned on transferring to a Though many described him as mellow and reserved, In memorializing Manriquez’s death, the team has vowed four-year university and aspired to play soccer professionManriquez’s bright personality and sense of humor made him to play hard for him in the coming season, Botelho said. ally, maybe for Mexican soccer team Monarcas Morelia. If “That’s what he loved to do and that’s what he would want that didn’t work out, she said, he wanted to be an automotive an easily likable guy, and a friend of many. “He would be serious, but he would like to make people us to do,” he said. mechanic. laugh, especially the kids,” Hueto said. “He had lots of Botelho added that Manriquez’s friends continue to talk Manriquez was born in Los Angeles and moved with friends from everywhere.” about him every day, and that his legacy will endure through family to San Pablo at the age of 8. He attended Lake Longtime friend Cassius Botelho agreed. memory. Elementary School, Helms Middle School and graduated “He had a great sense of humor, he never let an awkward Botelho encouraged grievers to “remember the good from De Anza High School in 2009. He then enrolled at moment pass by,” he said. memories you had with him and Andy will live on through CCC. Throughout the community, Manriquez’s violent death that.” Manriquez is survived by his mother Juana Hueto, his has sparked anger and outrage, leaving many at a loss for an Manriquez’s brother Santiago remembered him as a pro- father Santiago Manriquez, his brothers, Santiago Manriquez tective, caring brother and expressed a similar sentiment. explanation. Jr. and Eric Hueto, his uncle Pablo Hueto and his girlfriend “A lot of people couldn’t understand. He was just loved “I don’t feel like he’s gone. I feel like he’s still with me,” of nine months Karen Cabrera.
Organ to sing a new tune under senate Faculty elects new Academic Senate president
“I’ve decided to become a salmon. I’m going to swim up stream as far as I can to find out as much as I can.”
By Cassidy Gooding OPINION EDITOR
cgooding.advocate@gmail.com
Bowing to health problems, Academic Senate President Richard Akers will entrust his post this summer to music department Chairman Wayne Organ. On April 13, after what was described as a “whirlwind emergency election,” Organ was announced as the successor to the remainder of Dr. Akers’ presidency. Of the 62 faculty votes cast, Organ won with 32 against Matriculation Coordinator Kenyetta Tribble’s 30. At Organ’s subsequent appointment, Tribble will serve as his Vice President on the Academic Senate. “I’ve decided to become a salmon,” Organ said of the surprise change in position. “I’m going to swim up the stream as far as I can to find out as much as I can.” After Akers broke the news that he was taking a three-year leave of absence in April for medical reasons, Organ was nominated, along with a few other faculty members, to take his place. Organ said that his plan originally was to take a year as an Academic Senate senator to learn about all the different processes and responsibilities. “I’m really interested in finding out the big picture,” he said. “I’ve spent 15 years as the (chairman) of
Wayne Organ,
music department chairman
GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE
Harmonic transition — Music department Chairman Wayne Organ was elected to succeed current Academic Senate President Richard Akers. His term will begin July 1. the music department, so I understand the challenge of teaching faculty. I think it’s time to find out how this translates to the macro level; at the college level, or the state level.” As the Academic Senate president, Organ will sit on committees as the head of the faculty constituency within the Contra Costa Community College District, Akers said. “To be the Academic Senate president is to be the voice of the faculty,” he said. The Academic Senate president also sits on the hiring committees for several
administration positions within the colleges. Organ, however, sees this new position as a chance to make more opportunities for students. “As a teacher, I’m part of a student’s dream,” he described. “(The faculty) has to take that seriously. It is above all our jobs to make the things we have trouble understanding understandable to our students.” Organ expressed that even though he will not be teaching any classes during his two-year term as president, he will continue the education of the private music students
he already made a commitment to. One such student, Daniel Ruiz, admitted having mixed feelings about Organ’s shift. “I was sad when he told me he wasn’t going to be teaching regular classes,” he said. He said he is relieved that Organ will meet with him once a week. However, Ruiz also expects Organ to do well in his new post. “Mr. Organ is cool at everything he does,” he said. “When he’s doing something, he does it right and to the best of his ability.” The rest of the music department is cheering Organ on, as well.
Professor Stephanie Austin thinks he will be a good voice for the rest of the faculty. “I feel that (Organ) will work to serve the college and the faculty’s needs,” she said. “He is a creative thinker and will look for creative solutions.” Dr. Austin also said that the music department is already deciding on faculty substitutes for the classes he usually instructs. As his duties in the music department will be filled by other professors, Organ looks forward to tackling tough issues the state is facing. “These are weird and challenging times,” he said. “But in extraordinary times, there are extraordinary opportunities for change.” Akers is also optimistic about Organ’s term. “One of Wayne’s greatest aspects as president will be his long-standing stage and performing presence,” he said. “His confidence will serve him well as a representative, and the tight budget issues (the district is facing) will be no problem for a musician. Musicians have to count well.”
Community cultures showcased, enjoyed By George Morin ART DIRECTOR
gmorin.advocate@gmail.com
The sounds of many different cultural styles of music rang out from the Fireside Room during the Cultural Appreciation Day held Thursday afternoon. The event drew about 35 students, who were given the option of going to tables that represented various cultures. Muslim Student Union Vice President Nehayah Alnajar said the overall goal of the event was to inform students about the diverse cultures and ethnicities that are on the campus. Black Student Union President Ericka Greene said, “We want to shed some light on the clubs; students see our club events or hear our club names, but do they truly know what we have to offer? “This event is important to inform stu-
dents about what we offer.” The overall collaboration of the MSU and the BSU made the event possible. Greene said the MSU got the groups together to get the event together. Different countries were displayed in the event. Such foreign lands included Yemen, Arabia, Mexico, some African countries and the Pacific Islands. Many tables had lavish garments for sale or other artifacts from their particular countries. The La Raza student union had an altar displaying artifacts ranging from a head of corn, authentic mortar bowls, sacred flowers and a range of sacred statues. Many club members were excited for the event coming together. Puente Club President Matthew Hernandez said, “(This event) really gives us a chance to show a part of our culture and heritage.”
GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE
Cultural awareness — Puente Club President Matthew Hernandez (left) speaks with Muslim Student Union Vice president Nehayah Alnajar (right) during the Cultural Appreciation day on Thursday. Several groups brought different styles of food to the event. One of the dishes was a Cassava cake that is a traditional dessert from the Pacific Islands. “It’s great to see all these clubs out together, working together for a common
goal of common awareness of cultures,” Amber Muhammad, a club member from the Pacific Islanders Club, said. “This event also gives the different groups a chance to gain earnings for their clubs. All the groups get to keep their earnings from the event.”
CAMPUS BEAT
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE
5
Reception honors retired employees
COMMEMORATION
College celebrates longtime workers By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR
“I want to keep my mind active. Even though I’m retiring I don’t want to literally retire.”
awaite.advocate@gmail.com
SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE
Packing it in — Retired Buildings and Grounds worker Louis Dildy walks to the podium during the Annual Retirement Celebration and Staff Reunion at the Mira Vista Country Club in El Cerrito on Sunday.
EL CERRITO — College employees feasted and drank in celebration of their colleagues’ retirement at the Annual Retirement Celebration and Staff Reunion on Sunday at the Mira Vista Country Club. The reception served to acknowledge the accomplishments of the retirees throughout their time at Contra Costa College and give thanks through speeches, live entertainment and various other festivities. “It was good to meet each other again, and share feelings and experiences,” former College Skills coordinator David McCoard, who was one of the retirees honored, said. “I got to hear more about the people retiring than I knew about them before.” Guitar professor Ron Galen and his Laney/Contra Costa Guitar Ensemble played to the crowd at the beginning of the event as employees mingled and ate various dishes provided by the country club. Six out of 11 retirees were in attendance. President McKinley Williams conducted a tribute for each of the retirees present, as he described their impact on the college before calling them up to give a brief speech of their own. “I think that the (retirees’) speeches were really heartfelt and extremely genuine,” Williams said. “It is retirees like them that make us a premier community college.” In her speech, nursing professor Roberta Hoffman said she had no idea of the amount of gratitude she would feel to be a part of the CCC community when she first began working at the college. College video production engineer Barry Benioff was also grateful for everyone who helped him at the college, especially students. In his speech, he said, “Every time I had to roll in a lot of equipment, a student would
Fritz Pointer,
English professor and retiree
always hold the door open for me. Now it is time for us to hold the door open for them.” During the reception, a baby photo contest and retirees’ favorite song contest took place, and the winners of the contests were announced at the end of the tribute. Those who either correctly identified the most retirees by their baby photo or matched each retiree to their favorite song won a bottle of wine and a surprise gift. All retirees received a gift bag, a permanent CCC parking pass and a free lunch at The Three Seasons Restaurant. Although former web administrator Roger Polk has been retired for about 10 months, he thought the reception was a nice way to formally wrap up his relationship with the college and say his goodbyes to former employees. All the retirees agreed they intend to stay busy throughout their retirement by traveling, volunteer work, working a part-time job or staying physically active. “I want to keep my mind active,” English professor and retiree Fritz Pointer said. “Even though I’m retiring, I don’t want to literally retire.” He looks forward to traveling, spending time with family, reading and writing in hopes of publishing. On top of that, he plans to continue teaching a critical thinking class and an African film class part-time at CCC. “I want to challenge students to think critically, and to question authority, religion and leaders,” he said. Grounds worker Louis Dildy said he plans to spend his retirement taking it easy and being with his daughters and granddaughters. He also wants to do volunteer work with the youth.
Students confused by e-mail changes Unawareness leaves accounts unused, ignored By Hilberth Ibarra NEWS EDITOR
hibarra.advocate@gmail.com
The new student e-mail accounts provide many benefits to students. However, the accounts have continued to cause confusion for students who are unaware of their existence and how to use them. The Contra Costa College Community District Office and Microsoft joined forces to create student e-mails in an effort to improve communication on college campuses between administration, instructors and college students. “A lot of our students did not have e-mail addresses. It was our goal to figure out how to communicate with our students,” Senior Dean of Students Vicki Ferguson said.
In the old way of communicating with students, the Admissions and Records Office would ask students to provide their personal email accounts when they filled out their college application. However, Director of Admissions and Records Michael Aldaco said at least half of the students on campus have not supplied a personal e-mail account during that process. “One of the major benefits of the new student e-mails is that they will make sure every student will have a place to receive critical information,” Aldaco said. Besides this basic benefit, the new student e-mails will come with additional technological advantages. According to information posted on InSite Portal, students can save 25 gigabytes of information on SkyDrive and have access to Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel, along with other programs through the InSite Portal. Students can choose to get text alerts sent to their phones when
“I feel overwhelmed by the e-mails already, and feel overwhelmed by yet another e-mail account.” Rosemary McKenna, nursing
they receive a new e-mail message to their student e-mail, and if they prefer to use their existing personal e-mail they can forward their InSite e-mails to their personal e-mail account. For this feature, there is a link on the InSite Portal to an instructional YouTube video. A change that is important to be aware of is that the student emails, which originally ended with @comets.contracosta.edu, will now end with @insite.4cd.edu. Therefore, the e-mail will be the first initial of the first name, last name and the last three digits
of a student’s ID number, followed by @insite.4cd.edu. “Though initially the District Office liked the idea of giving students a campus identity by including the mascot of each campus as part of the student e-mails, students complained because many attend various campuses across Contra Costa County,” Aldaco said. Despite the many benefits the e-mails offer students, several students are still unable to adapt to the change. Many students said they feel overwhelmed by the idea of yet another e-mail account. “I haven’t had time to deal with it yet. It is just one more thing to deal with,” nursing major Rosemary McKenna said. “I feel overwhelmed by the e-mails already, and feel overwhelmed by yet another e-mail account.” Some students are still unaware of the existence of these new accounts due to the lack of advertising and information around campus.
“If the people don’t know about it, there is no way that the program can be successful,” student Dwayne Johnson said. “(They should) have fliers, workshops, meetings or conferences to let people know (about the changes).” Students also criticize the fact that the e-mails were implemented in the middle of a semester instead of the beginning. “It seems a little inconvenient that they would try to do it in the middle of the school year,” Johnson said. Student Zyrus Dahm said, “I think it would be better to implement it at the beginning of school so you can tie it into registration.” Aldaco said. “In addition to the e-mail you also have the portal and more instructors are using the portal. They are setting up a portal page for their class that has assignments, a calendar and deadlines that are coming up. “So it is important that students know how to access the portal to get this information.”
Food & Wine event raises money for trip By Hilberth Ibarra NEWS EDITOR
hibarra.advocate@gmail.com
The Fourth Annual Food & Wine Event took place on April 10 in the Gymnasium with the goal to raise money for scholarships to send six to eight culinary arts students to Italy. After raising the amount of $30,000, at least six students will be able to go abroad to Parma, Italy for an international culinary experience. “I think we reached our goal to raise funds to send six to eight students to Italy this year,” culinary arts department Chairman Nader Sharkes said. “We will guarantee at least six students to study abroad.” This is the fourth year that Sharkes has organized the event at Contra Costa College. The past two years, the fundraiser raised money to send students to China. Before coming to teach at CCC, Sharkes worked at Diablo Valley College, where he put on similar events. “This is Chef Nader’s project. As an instructor he wants to give culinary students an opportunity to go abroad to learn and have culinary experiences abroad,” culinary arts major Erlinda Vance said. “This is the fourth
year that he has done this at CCC, but he did it before at DVC and once he moved here, he continued doing it.” Ten culinary arts students applied to receive the scholarships. Instructional assistant Christina Gauthier said that the students were challenged to go out into the community and get donations and bring participants to the event. They earned points and these points determine who will receive the scholarships. The event featured 39 restaurants and 32 wineries from around the Bay Area. The food was an eclectic mix from Italian, Thai and Mexican to seafood, sausages and tofu. During the event, there was a cake raffle. Tickets were $5 each and a winner was announced every 15 minutes. There was also an auction led by auctioneer John Pereira that sold various items, including Giants tickets and U.S. Open tickets, as well as chef jackets and chef uniforms, tequila and restaurant certificates. After the auction ended, people continued to enjoy the event, tasting the variety of food and wines being offered. “Everyone is having a good time,” attendee Pam Wheeler said. The event was more than a fundraiser; it also brought the community together and
CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE
Serving smiles — Student Elizabeth Reilys receives a glass of wine from culinary arts student Matthew Riformo at the Food and Wine Event on April 10. created good publicity for CCC, Vance said. For the culinary arts students, it was also a chance to gain experience and practice interacting with the public. “As a student of the culinary arts department, you gain experience and you are able to talk to people and get them to donate thousands of dollars for the students,” Vance said. Sharkes was extremely proud of his stu-
dents. “I think our students did an outstanding job and I was extremely proud of them. They really stepped up and were the professionals I expected them to be. That was really the highlight of the day,” he said. One criticism of the event was that there was not enough seating for all who attended and since there were a lot of senior citizens, this was a slight inconvenience.
6 THE ADVOCATE
CAMPUS BEAT
l WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011
Enrollment program offers college flavor By Lamar James ASSOCIATE EDITOR
ljames.advocate@gmail.com
Students at Contra Costa College can have the chance to get a feel for university life while still attending a community college through the university concurrent enrollment program offered to them. The university concurrent enrollment program gives students a chance to take lower division courses while still enrolled at the community college level. “A lot of students have been successful through this program,” CCC counselor Luci Castruita said. “Many students have come back and told me how the program has helped them in some way.” She said the program helps in many ways. “Most students who have done the program come back and tell us how the experience has prepared them for the next level of education.” Castruita said other than the program exposing the students to campus life, the program also helps the students to get their foot in the door. “This is also a way to get into the university of your choice,” she said, “because you can put this on a resumé, which will help boost it.” Students can chose from California universities including institutions like UC Berkeley, Cal State-East CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE Spirited voice — Luther Wilson, a member of the musical Bay and Mills College. The program is limited to stugroup Praise Team, sings at the A Night of Gospel event held at dents who have an overall 2.4 GPA, have completed 20 transferable units and are full-time students at CCC. the Knox Center on April 9.
Castruita said that all of the campuses are offering students a chance to work on lower division classes, with the exception Cal State-East Bay, which will allow students to take upper division courses. Student Anthony Hoang said, “This will help me gain experience at a four-year university. I will be exposed to campus life and get a feel for what is to come.” He said he would also be able to shop around and see if the college he chooses to concurrently enroll at will ultimately be the college of his choice. “I will be able to weigh my likes and dislikes about a campus, and in all that will help me to eliminate some of my possible choices.” Student Daniel Contreras said the program will not only help him fulfill requirements for graduation, but also give him the extra push to completing that goal. “The college of my choice may see that I have already been a student there, which may help me (appear) worthy enough to go to there,” he said. Contreras also said the program will help him be above the rest in an already competitive world. Student Benedict Wilbrand said the program will give him a greater chance of transferring. “The classes and the program are free, so they will help me to save money so that I can go to a university.” For more information contact Castruita at 510-2357800 ext. 4218.
AGS members awarded scholarships All four CCC students merit cash winnings By Jesslyn Sherrod STAFF WRITER
jsherrod.advocate@gmail.com
Four members of the Alpha Gamma Sigma Honor Society of Contra Costa College won scholarships at the Alpha Gamma Sigma State Conference held in Ontario, Calif. April 1-3. The AGS, Alpha Upsilon, competed in the AGS State Conference
as each AGS chapter is allowed to nominate three students, but since CCC hosted the Northern Calif. Regional AGS Conference this academic year, Alpha Upsilon was permitted to nominate four students. Through the convention, AGS awards thousands of dollars in scholarships to members who excel in services and academics. “This year all four (CCC) nominees won scholarships. Many colleges had only one nominee win and we had all four,” said AGS adviser Maritza Vande Voorde. Students Christina Rathavongsa and Ruth Lopez were both win-
ners of the Ed Walsh Scholarship, while students Charmaine Seguro brought home the Kathleen D. Loly Scholarship and Angel Asante was awarded the Virginia Coffey Scholarship. “I’m happy to have won the Virginia Coffey Academic Scholarship,” Asante said. “I originally applied for the Kathleen D. Loly Scholarship, but only the top applications are considered for the Virginia Coffey Scholarship, so it is a very prestigious award.” The scholarship is an academic scholarship for those in high scholastic standing.This was Asante’s first time competing in the AGS
Advocate receives statewide praise Newspaper wins in brief group, individual awards, honors
w The
Advocate staff won a total of 22 awards at the Journalism Association of Community Colleges 2011 State Competition, held in Sacramento from April 7-9.
By Janit Saechao STAFF WRITER
jsaechao.advocate@gmail.com
The Advocate staff brought home 22 awards from the Journalism Association of Community Colleges (JACC) 2011 State Convention at the DoubleTree Hotel in Sacramento from April 79. JACC presented The Advocate with the Pacesetter, an award given w Among to a select few community college newspapers that demonstrate hard the group work and excellence. awards was In order to get a Pacesetter, the General schools must win a general excelExcellence lence award and gain points through Award for a other awards. community “Whether you write, draw or college newstake pictures, whatever it is that paper, as well you do as a part of the staff, it as the highfeels good to know that you had est honor, a something to do with (winning the Pacesetter. Pacesetter),” staff writer Rodney w Editor-inWoodson said. Paul DeBolt, The Advocate’s Chief Sam Attal won a total of 9 faculty adviser, said, “The students awards, includ- are focused on putting out a great ing recognition paper every week. They aren’t worried or focused on winning awards. in two of the In the process of that, excellence convention’s occurs.” on-the-spot Sports editor Malcolm Lastra competitions. said the awards reminded the staff members that their hard work has w Online paid off. Editor Dariush “It shows that what we’ve been Azmoudeh doing is not only important but received an good,” Lastra said. Honorable DeBolt said, “The Advocate has Mention in won the Pacesetter 14 of the 16 On-the-spot years they have been awarding it, Editorial but it’s always a big honor to win it. Cartoon. The real award is having the paper mean something to the campus.” w Opinion Along with the Pacesetter, Editor Cassidy Advocate students also won indiGooding won 4th Place in the vidual awards. Editor-in-chief Sam Attal said, Opinion Writing “Winning at the state level defiOn-the-spot nitely means a lot.” contest. Attal won a total of nine individual awards including 2nd Place
“The students are focused on putting out a great paper every week. They aren’t worried or focused on winning awards. In the process of that, excellence occurs.” Paul DeBolt,
faculty adviser of The Advocate
for On-the-spot News Judgment/ Layout and 4th Place Sports Photo. He said winning the on-the-spot awards reaffirmed his confidence. “Just knowing that I have the skill to do something that fast and make it that clean made me feel good.” Cassidy Gooding, opinion editor, won 4th Place in the On-thespot Opinion Writing competition. Dariush Azmoudeh, online editor, received an Honorable Mention for On-the-spot Editorial Cartoon. The annual State Convention offers a variety of workshops featuring professional journalists and others working in mass media. News Editor Alexandra Waite said, “It was really different (this year). There were more workshops and speakers. There were also journalists from the Los Angeles Times and other newspapers. They motivated students. It was interesting to hear from professionals,” Waite said. Associate Editor Lamar James said that it was a helpful and a learning experience. “I learned a lot. The workshops were very helpful in teaching us how to write stories. They showed us what we could bring to journalism through our interests, whether it’s music, photography or anything else.” he said. Lastra said he was excited to meet Marcus Thompson III, a Contra Costa Times beat writer for the Golden State Warriors. “I was glad to network with him,” Lastra said. “Hopefully, one day, I’ll fill his shoes.”
State Conference. Her scholarship is transfer-based, meaning it is awarded to students planning on transferring to a four-year institution. “I’m not sure where I’m going to go, but Berkeley is my first choice,” Asante said. The conference serves as more than just an award ceremony. It also serves as a way for members from each chapter to network and participate in academic-related workshops. “It is interesting to meet so many other students involved in community service and their education,” Lopez said. The Ed Walsh Scholarship is
awarded according to the community service performed and the number of hours dedicated. Some of the events that Lopez volunteered for were the CCC Club Rush, the Watershed Project: Coastal Clean-up, Urban Creek Council: Rheem Creek and others. Lopez, who served as president of the AGS two-year ago is now a volunteer coordinator. This is her second time attending an AGS conference. “This time it was different because there was a bigger turnout compared to the first time,” Lopez said. “It’s perfect to see so many students that want to participate.”
ADVERTISEMENT
���������������������� �����������������������������������������������������
������������������������������� ��������������������� ����������������������� ������������������������� �������������������������� ������������������������������ �������������������������������
�����������������������������������������������������������������
SPORTS
Squad defeats Eagles 16-8
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011 l THE ADVOCATE
7
STRONG FINISH
Offensive surge leads CCC over Laney in finale By Dariush Azmoudeh ONLINE EDITOR
dazmoudeh.advocate@gmail.com
Heading into the final stretch of the baseball season with a fivegame losing streak, the Comets finished their year on a positive note with a 16-8 victory over Laney College at home on Friday. An offensive surge by Contra Costa College, earning 20 hits, was a key factor to the victory that brought the Comets their 14th overall win. “What we could do well, we did today. We played great defense and hit the ball well. We executed the hit-and-run well,” Comet coach Marvin Webb said. “I don’t know what got them going. We’ve been waiting for a game like this all year. They played smart and hard. Every time we play Laney it feels like a rivalry.” The Comets end the season with a Bay Valley Conference record of 11-13 and an overall record of 14-22, an improvement from last year’s six-win finish. For sophomore players, it was the last time they would play in a Comet’s uniform. “It feels real good for us sophomores, because we want to go out with a W,” Comet shortstop Saul Rodriguez said. The game opened up with the Comets allowing the Eagles (15-9 BVC, 20-15 overall) to hit a triple on the first at bat followed by a
QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE
Ground grab — Comet pitcher Daryl Moret reaches out for a ground ball during Contra Costa College’s final home game against Laney College on Friday. CCC was able to seal a commanding 16-8 victory over the Eagles as the team used solid hitting. double that brought the runner on third base home to score. Laney ended the inning leading 2-0. The bottom of the first inning ended quickly for CCC as the team received three outs with no hits. The Comets’ first hit of the game was a home run that flew over the fence in right field off the bat of first baseman Trevon Prince in the second inning. Prince’s home run helped shift the momentum for CCC in the next inning. With the game tied 3-3 in the third inning, Prince was able to keep up the offensive intensity by getting three RBIs by hitting a triple with bases loaded that placed the Comets ahead 7-3.
“This is the most electric at bats “We had the big inning in the (we have had) this season,” Prince third and it kept following after said. “It definitely got the momen- that,” he said. “We haven’t had tum going. It takes that one hit to strong bats this year, but (this change the game.” game) showed what we could do.” In total for the day, In addition with Prince had three hits ScoreBoard the eight-run rally in with two runs scored and five RBIs. the third inning, the Comet startComets 16 Comets’ hitting gave them six runs in the ing pitcher Richie Eagles 8 Mendoza said he had fifth inning. Season over: trouble finding the Despite a small 14-22 overall, strike zone early in decline in effort in 11-13 in the the game before he the ninth inning, CCC settled down, but the BVC held the victory. team’s action in the “We got kind of third inning kept the relaxed. We kind of momentum going throughout the fell asleep at the end, but we had game. the perseverance and the heart to
finish the game,” Prince said. In their previous game, the Comets were defeated 9-5 in the third game of the first round of the BVC tournament to Solano Community College in Fairfield on Thursday. While Solano had a commanding 4-0 lead through six innings, CCC attempted a comeback, scoring five runs in the final two innings. Despite the late comeback, the squad’s early errors in the outfield hurt the team, preventing them from stealing the win. “We made too many mistakes dropping the ball in the outfield,” Webb said. “We can’t talk about being (a good team) until we prove it on the field.”
Team remains winless after final match By Malcolm Lastra
the season. “Our bats were too slow today and we let them get in our heads,” third baseman Throughout the season, the softball team Juanita Jackson said. “(Despite the loss), has faced adversity. Because I’m glad that we pushed through it couldn’t put enough players to finish the season and we did not give up.” on the field it had to cancel 15 preseason games and forfeit ScoreBoard In the first game, the Comets five conference games. responded well to the Storm’s The Comets also had nine Storm 13 four early runs in the first inning games called early due to the by bringing in two runs of their Comets 4 10-run mercy rule, including own. a game in their final doubleStorm 12 Despite the Comets’ attempt header of the season at home to rally back, NVC was able to Comets 0 against Napa Valley College on hold CCC to just two runs for the rest of the game and capitalized April 26, when the squad fell Season over: 13-4 and 12-0 to the Storm. 0-28 overall, on the squad’s errors. Sloppy fielding and the lack 0-24 in BVC. Entering the second game of of hitting that has plagued the the doubleheader, the Comets team all year yet again proved looked hopeful of snagging a win to get the best of Contra Costa College (0- as they held the Storm to only one run in the 28, 0-24 in the Bay Valley Conference) in first inning, led by pitcher Myeshia Ellison. the doubleheader. The Comets failed to get Storm pitcher Louie Knudson would that elusive victory, falling to the Storm (14- often catch the Comets off guard with her 15, 13-9 in the BVC) in both games to end fast pitching, managing only to give up one SPORTS EDITOR
mlastra.advocate@gmail.com
Comet hit in the game. “(Through this season), the opposing teams had good pitching and it always neutralizes our hitting,” coach Ed Miller said. “However, in the end, (the lack of hitting) results in the team needing more experience.” Things began to fall apart in the second inning for CCC as the Storm scored four runs after catcher Morgan Aiello blasted a double with bases loaded toward right field to bring in the NVC runners. The Comets’ downfall was due to the team’s inability to catch the ball. As a result, several of NVC’s hits were mishandled by the fielders. Another problem that hurt the young squad was the poor communication between Ellison and catcher Meagan Maile. This ended up with Maile dropping many of Ellison’s pitches, allowing the Storm to capitalize with stolen bases. CCC committed a total of 11 errors for the game, nine of which were shared between the catcher and the pitcher.
“We still have a new team; some of us are new to our positions,” Comet shortstop Jessica Miller said. “Defense was something we needed to improve on.” The defensive mistakes, along with the lack of hitting, haunted Miller the team throughout the remainder of the game; the Comets gave up a combined seven runs in the final three innings before the game was called off by the umpire per the mercy rule. While the team suffered its eighth conference game shutout and failed to gain a win for the season, Ed Miller and the squad kept their heads held high and were proud to complete the season. “I had a bunch of winners on this team, despite not being able to put some wins on the scoreboard. This team won in my heart,” Ed Miller said. “They worked hard from the
Crab feed raises funds for athletic department By Faythe Del Rosario STAFF ILLUSTRATOR
frosario.advocate@gmail.com
A large amount of crab served by student-athletes filled guests’ stomachs at the athletic department’s Crab Feed on Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Gymnasium. The feed was the eighth hosted by the athletic department over the past 10 years. Tickets were $35 and each ticket gave attendees a chance to win a door prize at the end of the event in a raffle. Athletic Director John Wade said the purpose of this event was to raise funds for the athletic department. “We need the money and we have a long way to go,” Wade said. Wade and his coaches have been informed about possible cuts to the athletic program for the 2011-12 fiscal year and the possibility of losing one of the men’s teams to help balance the college budget. Many student-athletes took part in the Crab Feed. Some were assigned to be ROMAN YOUNG / THE ADVOCATE servers while others prepared plates for Serving smiles — Student Johnathan Christian (left) serves pasta to Howard Rew the guests. “The athletes are great,” Stockton resi(right) during the athletic department Crab Feed in the Gymnasium on Saturday.
dent Mercy Dumo said. “They are very attentive to our needs; players from the baseball team helped us a lot.” A total of 16 people and companies donated to aid the Crab Feed, including the college’s culinary arts department, interim Dean of Students Vicki Ferguson and Acme Bread, a bakery located in Berkeley. In addition to the all-you-can-eat crab, pasta, salad and bread were also served to guests. For dessert, slices of apple pie were available to attendees. Bottles of wine and two gift baskets were up for bid at the silent auction during the feed. “As a community member and someone who uses the college Pool, I support the aquatics program at CCC,” student Malou Bayong said. “I think the athletic department is the most affected (by budget cuts) and not only does it affect the college, it affects the students and people surrounding the area as well. Without them what would some of us do for fitness?” Football linebacker Luis Vega said, “I didn’t expect so many people from the community to come and support us. In my opinion, the crab feed went great.”
8 THE ADVOCATE
l WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2011
SCENE
Richmond’s past to be revisited By George Morin ART DIRECTOR
gmorin.advocate@gmail.com
While people in Berkeley were burning draft cards, the people of Richmond were being drafted into the Army to fight in the Vietnam War. Audiences will be sent back to Richmond High School in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement in 1966 in the drama department’s presentation of “Rockin’ at Richmond High 1966.” Written by drama department Chairman Clay David and directed by Kathryn McCarty, the play celebrates the city of Richmond and its residents with this theatrical gift to the community, which will premiere tonight in the Knox Center at 8 p.m. and will also run Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at the same time. “(The year) 1966 was a very “I would important time in history, espelike students cially in Richmond,” David said. was the year after the Watts to gain some “It Riots and before the decline of respect for the Black Panther movement. It was also the year Dr. Martin their elders Luther King Jr. was hit by a brick during a rally in the midst and the of the Civil Rights Movement. past, and I want to be able to shed some light and insight on this very to really important time of history.” appreciate This nostalgic showcase a litany of history, and under- depicts music, dance and memories of stand all the what makes West Contra Costa what it is today, David trials and County said. The play follows the lives of tribulations 14 seniors attending Richmond that their High School during 1966. The grandpar- issues of marriage, the Vietnam draft and their graduation ents went War become the main themes of the through for plot. The play is narrated by 71them.” year-old Odetta Jones, the first Bay Area disc jockey and a Clay David, former Richmond High School drama department counselor who worked there in chairman 1966. Jones leads the story by going through her life at the time and telling the stories of the 14 Richmond High students. “I would like students to gain some respect for their elders and the past, and to really appreciate and understand all the trials and tribulations that their grandparents went through for them. Especially the faculty of this college; there (are many) people who fought for
w Dance Jam
will be held in the Knox Center on May 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m.
By Dariush Azmoudeh ONLINE EDITOR
dazmoudeh.advocate@gmail.com
are $15 general admission, $10 for students and seniors.
w Tickets will be available at the college Bookstore and on the night of the event at the door.
the civil rights we have today,” David said. “I’m excited for our opening night,” student Kiki Drooh said. “We worked extremely hard to get this all together. It’s taken a lot out of us, but in the end it’s all worth it. It’s going to be a great show.” Tickets are $5 for children under 10, $8 for students and seniors and $10 for the general public. For students involved, the play has been more than your aver-
age drama performance. Student Layla Martinez said, “Being a part of this play has brought a lot to me. (The cast) has really been like one big family. They have been more than just a cast, they have been like a backbone for us all.” All costumes are designed by David and are based on high school fashions from 1966. For ticket information, call 510-235-7800, ext. 4274.
Dance Jam showcases choreography
in brief
w Ticket costs
GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE
With passion — Drama department Chairman Clay David explains one of the dance cues to his students during a rehearsal of “Rockin’ in Richmond High 1966” at the Knox Center on Monday.
Part of a Contra Costa College tradition, the annual Dance Jam event, will be held in the Knox Center on May 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and will bring audiences together to see dancers from several schools. “Dance Jam has been a long-standing tradition at CCC. It’s a dance event where we invite students from other colleges here to dance,” said Latanya Tigner, dance assembly coordinator and professor. “I was in it when I was a student here in 1986. The college has been
hosting it for more than 25 years.” Ticket costs are $15 for general admission, $10 for students and seniors, and are currently available at the college Bookstore and will be available at the door the nights of the event. Tigner, who is managing and producing Dance Jam, said that getting everything together is a team effort, including various dance instructors preparing students and crews working on the scenery for the stage. First-time Dance Jam performer Ronisha Gaines said, “I expect it to be exciting. I want (the audience) to appreciate the hard work we put in. We all worked together to put on a show.”
The event will showcase a variety of dances ranging from jazz, hip-hop, ballroom, tango, traditional African and Egyptian belly dance, Tigner said. One of the goals of the event is to show the community the different types of dances and to encourage people to take dancing classes to help the college. “It will bring more knowledge of the performance arts to the campus,” Tigner said. “Hopefully it will encourage and bring more people to sign up (for dancing) so these programs won’t get cut.” Dance Jam performer David Mumphray said he’s looking forward
to the audience having a good time. He wants them to see the hard work the performers have put into the event. “(The audience) should definitely open their eyes to what kind of dances are in our community,” he said. “Many students aren’t aware of the opportunity (of dancing at CCC). Hopefully it will get them wanting to join. I’m very happy to get the opportunity to train at this school and with Ms. Tigner.” Tigner said, “The audience can look forward to a really good time, excitement, movement, theatrical scenery and a lot of talent. They will be surprised with the level of talent on campus and in the community.”
‘Fast Five’ becomes new favorite By Faythe Del Rosario STAFF ILLUSTRATOR
frosario.advocate@gmail.com
“Fast Five,” the fifth installment in the “Fast and Furious” franchise, proved to be much better than some of its predecessors. The film is action-packed and features rough and slightly humorous straight-to-thepoint dialogue and pure aesmoviereview thetics that drew the audience to the franchise to begin with. This time around, however, director Justin Lin seems to place more emphasis on the “Fast Five” action rather than the cars. ★★★★★ The movie begins with Starring: Vin Dominic “Dom” Toretto, Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne played by Vin Diesel, being Johnson sent to prison with a 25-year Directed by: sentence, only to be aided in Justin Lin Where: escape by former FBI agent Everywhere and friend, Brian O’Connor, Genre: Action played by Paul Walker. The motion picture then takes place primarily in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Toretto, his sister and O’Connor work with five other people to pull off a grand heist worth $100 million in laundered money that is owned by a corrupt businessman, Hernan Reyes. Reyes is also a big drug dealer in Brazil
SPECIAL TO / THE ADVOCATE
Muscle men — (Left) Dominic “Dorn” Toretto (Vin Diesel) shares the big screen with Luke Hobbs (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) in the fifth and newest installment to the “Fast and Furious” franchise “Fast Five.”
who wants the original movie duo completely obliterated. Two of the other individuals involved in the heist include rappers Ludacris and Tyrese Gibson, both recurring characters from “2 Fast 2 Furious,” as the technical analyst and “smooth-talker,” respectively. Besides the drug lord, another obstacle the group must face is avoiding capture by Diplomatic Security Service agent Luke Hobbs, played by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who is on the hunt for O’Connor and Toretto for the crimes they have committed. However, when his teammates are killed by Reyes, he works with the heist team to bring Reyes down. The movie is more entertaining than the franchise’s third and fourth films because the feel of it seems to
mature in story direction rather than simply having guys driving fast automobiles. Yet, the integrity of the “Fast and Furious” franchise remains intact, as they still drive cars that people have been fans of since the first movie. The movie seems to emulate other films that had the same plot, by bringing in a group to become specialists in a risky heist. Audience members who have seen the movie have said that it reminds them of the 2003 film, “The Italian Job” and the 2001 film, “Ocean’s Eleven.” While this isn’t the worst of all of the five “Fast and Furious” films, it is becoming tiresome seeing the story stretched out longer than it should have been, which slowly kills the series.