The Advocate 3-29

WEDNESDAY l 3.29.17 OUR 67TH YEAR CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE SAN PABLO, CALIF.

ASU PLANS TO AMEND PROGRAM Examining five years of the Student Activity Fee

The graph below shows the dollar amount each district college has accumulated since the implementation of the $5 Student Activity Fee in 2012. The fee is charged to each student each term upon registration for classes.

Grant for Support to stay dormant as ASU treasurer pushes for simpler process

BY Lorenzo Morotti ASSOCIATE EDITOR

lmorotti.theadvocate@gmail.com

Community funds events:

19%

Contra Costa College $379,000

The $5 Student Activity Fee (SAF) was passed by the district Governing Board in 2011.

Students began paying the $5 fee at the start of the 2012 spring semester. Since the 2012 spring semester, students have been able to waive the fee.

The ASU created the Grant for Support program in 2013.

Since the SAF was enacted five years ago, CCC has had an active Grant for Support program for only two years.

At CCC, 15 percent of the SAF is allocated to the Inter-Club Council for all club activities.

25% Los Medanos College $486,000

56%

Diablo Valley College $1.1 million

District total: $1.96 million

SOURCE: CONTRA COSTA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT

PLEA DELAYED, I-80 SUSPECTS FACE MURDER INVESTIGATION

Associated Student Union Treasurer Arius Robinson said he plans to redesign the ASU’s grant program at Contra Costa College after nearly two semesters of the program being inactive.

“The way the Grant for Support is set up now is not as efficient as it could be,” Robinson said. “I want to make the Grant for Support more streamlined.

“Because students pay into it through the Student Activity Fee, they should be able to go to the ASU anytime and ask for funding.”

The current structure of the Grant for Support program, funded by the $5 Student Activity Fee (SAF) that is charged to each student upon registering each semester, offers up to 10 applicants up to $2,500 if approved by the ASU Board.

Robinson said over the upcoming months he plans to push for changing the name of the program from Grant for Support, eliminating the submittal window and implementing a “drop-in” methodology to speed up the process.

He said after the two-week submission window closed in the past, it could take weeks for the internal Finance Committee to review the application and call the applicant to present to the ASU Board.

While the grant program will still pull from the SAF funds to fund student events, trips and other expenses not funded through the college’s operating budget, he said not having to allocate nearly a quarter of ASU expense to the Grant for Support opens up more funds for events.

Student Life Coordinator Joel Nickelson-Shanks said he supports whichever direction the ASU Board decides to go, but the responsibility of getting the discussion started is Robinson’s as ASU treasurer.

“There needed to be a conversation about the term ‘Grant for Support’,” Nickelson-Shanks said.

“Getting rid of that term might stop the same faculty members returning to ask for free money essentially.”

He said Robinson and other ASU executives have the potential to create safeguards that prevent the possibility that a department could abuse the program and be granted funds they may not need.

Robinson said he has yet to work out the exact request limits with ASU President Safi Ward-Davis or anyone else on the ASU Board, but pressure from students, professors and department chairpersons SEE ASU, PAGE A3

INFOGRAPHIC BY LORENZO MOROTTI AND MARCI SUELA / THE ADVOCATE

‘Two Sisters, a Piano’ play reviewed

Teenage accomplices await judge’s decision to be tried as adults

BY Efrain Valdez

PAGE A6

SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

evaldez.theadvocate@gmail.com

The driver of the vehicle involved in the freeway shooting that killed former Contra Costa College student Demarcus Doss on March 9 was arraigned at the Superior Courthouse in Richmond Thursday.

Elliot Johnhenry Johnson, 24, had the option to give a plea to his murder and attempted murder charges, but his attorney asked the court to delay his plea until April 11.

The two 17-yearold suspects, one of Johnson whom is believed to be the shooter, are still waiting approval from a judge to be charged as adults.

So far, they both are facing murder charges and the suspected shooter is facing charges with enhancements for use of a firearm.

Johnson and the two underage suspects were following Doss and his friend “Jo,” both also 24 years old, while driving in traffic on eastbound Interstate 80 between the Macdonald and San Pablo Avenue exits in Richmond on March 9.

At about 3:30 p.m., the vehicle regisSEE DOSS, PAGE A3

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COLLEGE SEALS 30-SECOND ADVERTISEMENT AT CENTURY 16 PAGE A4

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Group endorses religious inclusivity

BY Michael Santone

Interfaith prayer space aims to promote religious

Highlight reel of basketball camp

activities, ease stress

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

msantone.theadvocate@gmail.com

Right now, the only place for Muslim students at Contra Costa College to find the solitude to pray is behind the stacks of books that line the back of the Library and Learning Resource Center.

But Muslim Student Association President Rayah Alammari is looking to change that with an Interfaith Meditation Room.

Proposed to Dean of Student Services Vicki Ferguson by Alammari on March 10, the Interfaith Meditation Room

PAGE A8 INSTAGRAM: @cccadvocate

would provide a quiet and peaceful haven for students of all spiritual backgrounds to pray, meditate or just relax in between classes.

Ferguson, who was excited by the idea, brought the proposal to the CCC Operations Council on March 13 and then to the College Council on March 20.

Both committees were receptive to the idea and thrilled to establish such a room for students.

The urban community that CCC provides for has these “nuggets of diversity,” Ferguson said. “If we are able to provide a space for these students, we are

ABOVE: A Muslim student prays behind the bookshelves in the Library on March 20.

The Muslim Student Association is coordinating efforts to create a designated space for prayer.

SEE INTERFAITH, PAGE A3

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Quotable “Freedom is a precious thing, and the inalienable birthright of all who travel this earth.”

Paul Rodeson, actor, writer 1953 Roxana Amparo editor-in-chief Marci Suela art director Lorenzo Morotti Michael Santone associate editors Benjamin Bassham Anthony Kinney news editors Robert Clinton sports editor opinion editor Xavier Johnson scene editor Dylan Collier assistant scene editor Reggie Santini spotlight editor Denis Perez Cody Casares photo editors Efrain Valdez Yesenia Melara social media editors Tashi Wangchuck multimedia editor Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Advocate Staff Sean Austin Madison Burfield Jose Chavez Dahn Bey Karla Juarez Jaleel Perry Julian Robinson Valeria Garcia Jshania Owens Kyle Pierce-Turley Isaac Resendiz Matthew Robinson Jessica Suico Carlos Suarez Desmond Sylva Honors ACP National Newspaper Pacemaker Award 1990, 1994, 1997,1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2015 CNPA Better Newspaper Contest 1st Place Award 1970, 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2013 JACC Pacesetter Award 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Member

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Journalism Association of Community Colleges How to reach us Phone: 510.215.3852 Fax: 510.235.NEWS Email: accentadvocate@ 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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29, 2017 VOL. 104, NO. 18

WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM

●

EDITORIAL ENDORSING LIFE, SPIRIT

Campus should create quiet, safe prayer room for all

P

romoting religious or spiritual freedoms on a college campus is a subject of contention during this politically unstable era, only because these terms are misunderstood.

Religion is a cultural institution that is taught, but we are all born with a sense of spirituality and that can be expressed in many ways.

The Muslim Student Association (MSA) at Contra Costa College is discussing the possibility of converting an unused room on campus into a place of worship for students regardless of their faith. “(The Interfaith Meditation Room) would provide a convenient and respectful environment for religious and spiritual expression,” MSA President Rayah Alammari said. “And (the room) would bring together people of different faiths to promote learning.”

The Interfaith Meditation Room would help many students achieve their academic goals by providing a place on campus for reflection or introspection to recharge their drive to graduate or transfer.

Naturally, questions like “shouldn’t public schools keep education and religion separate?” and “if it is all inclusive would you allow ‘pagans’ or Satanists to worship?” come from a place of concern, but miss the point.

The meditation room is not a class.

Proposed to CCC Dean of Student Services Vicki Ferguson by Alammari on March 10, the Interfaith Meditation Room should provide a quiet and peaceful haven for students of all spiritual backgrounds to pray, meditate or just relax between classes.

Ferguson, who was excited by the idea, said she discussed the proposal at the CCC Operations Council meeting on March 13 and then at the College Council meeting on March 20.

Both shared governance committees were receptive to the idea of establishing such a space for students.

“It is not promoting one religion over another,” Ferguson said. “Students could be in there doing yoga or reading a book.”

Unfortunately, people tend to interpret religion in a political context and fixate on conflicts between belief systems.

But all forms of religion and spirituality are created to deal with one common truth — everything that is born must die.

Many people fail to realize that religion is more than a connection to a specific higher being — it is a spiritual drive to overcome the challenges of life and cope with our mortality.

Humans are spiritual beings — storytellers. We are programmed to rationalize our existence and the various forms of spirituality that have facilitated this drive for millions of years.

Even when faced with this harsh truth, many people cannot distinguish where religion ends and spirituality begins.

Or, if a room that explains the difference even belongs on a college campus.

If the college wants to support creating an interfaith community on campus, the MSA should create a marketing campaign that clearly represents the inclusive nature of the space.

Muslim, Catholic, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Jew, Satanist, agnostic or atheist all need to have a place on campus to feel supported and grow. We need a place where we can rationalize life.

MARCI SUELA / THE ADVOCATE

■ SOCIAL JUSTICE

I

Misuse of term ‘woke’ pushes need to unite

n these turbulent times that we live in, many believe the end result of becoming an agent against systematic oppression requires little more than wearing the label of ally and topping it off with the proclamation of being “woke.”

Make no mistake, like many things deemed cool in America, “woke” is not an invention of the liberal left, it’s a black thing.

But this time, it’s something you can understand.

Being “woke” isn’t only for black people, despite the term being coined by neo-soulstress Erykah Badu in her song “Master Teacher” in 2008.

It was then introduced into mainstream households by activist actor Jessie Williams of ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy.”

The term has metastasized in music from rappers with messages of education and activism who were labeled “conscious,” like Public Enemy or Killer Mike.

Being considered “white and ‘woke’” is more than just occasional privilege checking or standing against blatant unconstitutional injustices.

Being “woke” is a course of action.

It is not just a label you can readily give yourself. It has to be earned.

The problem for white people is that there is no clear way to turn down advantages that were never asked for and that people can’t readily reject. However, the first step begins with acknowledgment.

In that same vein, being an ally isn’t your current

robertclinton

advancement of marginalized people.

By accepting the notion of allyship, the fate of racial equality is taken out of the hands of the people who stand to benefit the most from balancing the system.

Some believe this may not be a worst case scenario because, as history shows, there is greater strength in numbers.

In the negative, allyship also ensures that this unjust system, for the time being, must remain intact because without it, what measure would be used to determine the higher social standing that affords a person the title of “ally” to begin with.

Weaponized information and fake news requires potential allies to educate themselves about the history of the oppression they claim to oppose.

It’s also important to recognize the ways those systems translate into modern problems.

The people whose allies claim to fight beside them are not their personal Google and are not obligated to re-tell history lessons people may have slept through because, at the time, they didn’t seem important.

Becoming and remaining “woke” is worn by many like a badge of honor, but if the current definition is to be against the historic system of racism and white supremacy, how did President Trump get elected.

status, it has to be an action that you are consistently engaged in, but hopefully with, some member of a marginalized community.

The fight for equality is a constant struggle and true allyship can be nearly impossible if, when the odds seem insurmountable, a comfortable cove of privilege awaits those who Being “woke” choose to take a is a course timeout.

And of action. remember, past perIt’s not a formance does not label you can equate to a pass for readily give current shortcom- yourself. It ings. has to be Just because earned. a person retweeted a couple of posts against police brutality or marched in opposition of current immigration policies, does not mean that they are granted eternal allyship.

Many can’t fathom what a privilege it is to be able to opt out of the daily minutiae of societal bigotry if it’s an inconvenience or if it’s just Rob Clinton is the opinnot what you’re into that ion editor of The Advocate. day.

Contact him at @Rclinton3 Some feel the very idea of on Twitter allyship is detrimental to the

CAMPUS COMMENT

Do you think district employees should be drug tested? Why?

“If you can tell something is affecting their work, then yes. But if they are able to keep work separated then it should be OK.” Delmus James automotive

DENIS PEREZ/THE ADVOCATE

“Yes. When white-collar workers are affected by drugs it is not reflected as badly (on them) than it is on the low-income population.”

Brenda Beltran nursing

“Of course, because they set the example for their district and their students.”

Benjamin Doherty economics

“Yes. By doing drugs and becoming unconcentrated, tweakers jeopardize their main focus to work for the future.”

Sergio Corona sociology

“No. I feel if you are doing your job correctly then what you do outside of (work) is OK.”

“Yes. If you want students to be safe, then the faculty must be safe.”

Melissa Murino

Jackie Ortiz

engineering

business

campus beat

WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 3.29.2017 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE

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NEWSLINE ASU | Grant funded by fee may be ‘streamlined’ SHOWCASE

ASU TO HOST ART SHOW, AWARD PRIZE The Associated Student Union will host an Art Showcase today from 4-7 p.m., open to all students, in the Fireside Hall.

The top three student pieces will receive $150 scholarships.

Light refreshments will be served.

Students interested in participating can contact asucccvpc@contracosta.edu or bring submissions to SA-109.

MENTAL HEALTH

FILM, DISCUSSION ON MENTAL HEALTH Contra Costa College’s PsyR Students Committee will host its 2017 PsyR Spring Conference Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the San Pablo Community Center.

The conference will consist of short films, discussions and a workshop titled, Movies For Mental Health, presented by Art With Impact.

Movies For Mental Health is a workshop on college and university campuses that focuses on empowering young adults, educators, health professionals and community members to gain a better understanding of mental health within their community.

Art With Impact is a progressive arts-centered, social engagement organization based in San Francisco that works collectively with artists and filmmakers.

The event is free.

Contact health and human services professor Mary Johnson at mjohnson@contracosta.edu.

CRIMEWATCH

Continued from Page 1 asking when the Grant for Support program will return is growing.

“It’s been brought up at ASU meetings by (Ward-Davis) and professors or students I see around campus who know about the program,” Robinson said. “We want to have it active, but because the Student Activity Fee funds the program, anything we approve has to be specifically used to help the most students possible and not cliques.”

Even though the Grant for Support program has been inactive for three out of the five years since the SAF was enacted in 2012, Ward-Davis said the ASU’s operating budget is funded through the $5 fee.

She said ASU events, Inter Club Council activities, scholarships and requests from programs or departments to purchase instructional equipment, pay for — are expenses that have been funded through the Grant for Support.

Without the Grant for Support active, the ASU still funded $14,071 to pay for a stockpile of backpacks, portfolios, graduation folders, pens and other student needs to hand out at small or

“We don’t have a formula or any other way of allocating (the Student Activity Fee).”

— Jonah Nicholas,

large campus events, $500 for food and drinks for Hispanic Serving Institute-Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Cafés and various scholarships, to name a few.

Ward-Davis said the Finance Committee has yet to hold an official meeting due to Robinson’s schedule as a Middle College High School student.

She said even though it is his area, she “dropped the ball” as president for not making sure Robinson and other members joined the committee that responsible for suggestions as to which applicants should get what, when and how to the ASU Board.

Ward-Davis said any of these proposals will not be implemented until the Finance Committee convenes and the ASU Board discusses the changes and approves them at a public meeting.

Five years after the fee was

enacted in 2012 spring s e m e s t e r, District Chief Financial Officer Jonah Nicholas said the $5 Student Ward-Davis Activity Fee has raised nearly $2 million districtwide.

Students at CCC have paid $379,000, Los Medanos College SAF fees contributed $486,000 and Diablo Valley College covers the $1.1 million remainder Nicholas said.

According to the ASU’s account details provided by CCC’s Business Office, the ASU has spent $329,457 of SAF funds to have a balance of about $50,000 this semester.

“It’s really quite simple,” Nicholas said. “Students who register have the fee put on their account for the fall or spring semesters — the fee is not charged during the summer session.

“They can opt out of the fee by filling out a form (at the Financial Aid Office).”

He said each student pays one fee to their home college making the funds specific to a campus.

“We don’t have a formula or any other way of allocating (the Student Activity Fee),” Nicholas said. “It is simply by who registers at which college.”

Former ASU President Ysreal Condori, 2013-14 said he also supports whichever decision the ASU Board makes, but agrees with Robinson that the process took a lot of time and resources.

“Processing the Grant for Support applicants was tedious work,” Condori said. “And I agree.

“There were conflicts during the process and it was hard for us to be sure if the department that was asking for money was really underfunded, or if they were using the money for something else.”

Former interim Student Life Coordinator Kelly Ramos said when she was the ASU adviser as the SAF created discourse on campus.

“We suggested that we start a grant as a response to that uproar and not just fund supplies to promote student success but to support student life,” Ramos said.

“If the Grant for Support could have a goal it would be to fund the campus as a whole — and the SAF was the seed money to make that discussion a reality.”

DOSS | Defense attorney delays trial until April Continued from Page 1

one struck him in the front of the head.

Doss was pronounced dead at John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek about 24 hours after tered in Johnson’s name pulled up next to the the shooting. car driven by Doss.

“Jo” was taken to Alta Bates Hospital in When the occupants of the car began shoot- Berkeley where she was treated for a gunshot ing at his vehicle, Doss used his body to shield wound to her hand. his friend from the bullets.

The three assailants fled the scene and were According to the California Highway Patrol, arrested 30 minutes after the shooting in the two bullets struck Doss in the upper body and Iron Triangle neighborhood of Richmond.

The CHP gave credit to the Richmond Police Department and witnesses at the scene who gave them vital information, like descriptions of the vehicle and its license plate number, for the quick arrests of the suspects.

Johnson is being held at the West Contra Costa County Detention Facility in Richmond and the two 17-year-olds are being held at the Contra Costa County Juvenile Hall in Martinez.

INTERFAITH | Lack of worship space spurs action

Monday, March 6: A student complained of chest pain in the Music Building. An ambulance responded and took her to the hospital.

A staff member reported damage to an office door in the Biological Sciences Building. The door had pry marks and the latch plate was damaged.

A staff member complained of chest pain in the General Education Building. An ambulance responded and took her to the hospital.

Tuesday, March 7: A tree branch fell and damaged a vehicle in Lot 5.

Wednesday, March 8: Officers responded to a verbal argument between a student and her boyfriend. The student didn’t want prosecution. The case was forwarded to the dean of students for a student conduct referral.

A student reported seeing a male throw a purse underneath a car parked in the child care parking lot before fleeing the scene.

A female reported that her purse was stolen from her vehicle.

Thursday, March 9: Officers received a report of an unknown suspect vandalizing the men’s restroom in the Student Dining Hall.

Friday, March 10: A female student was injured while at dance practice. She was taken to the hospital by her parents.

Monday, March 13: Officers received a report of an unknown suspect scratching a student’s vehicle parked in Lot 1.

A student became ill while in class and was taken to county hospital for treatment.

Tuesday, March 14: Officers received a report of a theft occurring in the Applied Arts Building.

— Anthony Kinney — The Contra Costa Community College District is committed to equal opportunity in educational programs, employment, and campus life. The District does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, marital status, national origin, parental status, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status in any access to and treatment in College programs, activities, and application for employment.

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

A group of Muslim students pray in the Library on March 20 during one of the five times they are asked to pray each day. The Muslim Student Association is coordinating efforts to create a designated space on campus for prayer.

Continued from Page 1 living up to our mission.”

For students who follow the teachings of Islam, offering prayer five times a day is essential.

With two of these prayers, Dhuhr, the noon prayer and Asr, the afternoon prayer coinciding with the average time classes are available, a space like the Interfaith Meditation Room would be insurmountable, compensating for the crowded, confined murmurs of students in the Library.

The idea was first discussed during an MSA meeting and mutually agreed upon by its members as beneficial for all students as well as future family and friends who will attend CCC. There are many students on campus who follow different religious and spiritual practices including Hinduism, Judaism and Buddhism that would be able to utilize the space, Alammari said. “(The Interfaith Meditation Room) would provide a convenient and respectful environment for religious and spiritual expression and bring together people of different faiths to promote learning.”

“(The Interfaith Meditation Room) would provide a convenient and respectful environment for religious and spiritual expression.”

— Rayah Alammari,

Although the name, Interfaith, gives off a quasi-connotation of religious practice on campus, the idea of the space is to integrate those who need a few minutes to themselves in a silenced ambiance.

“It’s not promoting one religion over another,” Ferguson said.

“Students could be in there doing yoga or reading a book.”

Free of judgment and free of persecution, the space would be open to everyone no matter their beliefs or followings as long as while occupying the space they are respectful and kind.

Muslims have been portrayed in a poor light for decades now, Alammari said, as she demonstrated the use of a compass to find the direction of Mecca in which to pray toward.

“I wouldn’t want to walk into a room and someone tell me I’m not welcome because of my religious belief,” she said, “That won’t happen to anyone in the Interfaith Meditation Room.”

Radiology major Salma Alsharay has also found slight solace behind the stacks of books in the Library.

Alsharay, who is an English tutor in the Skills Center, has tried to get her spiritual boost in a variety of different places.

When in the break room, she’s interrupted by peers who are unaware of what she is doing.

Even the Library, which seems to be the most popular and efficient place, lacks cleanliness and requires a prayer rug that invites curious students.

“With the Interfaith Meditation Room, people will know you are doing something important and won’t bother you,” she said.

These little breaks in the day are my time to rest and reflect and I’m sure students of different faiths feel the same way, Alsharay said.

As of right now, there are only tips and suggestions for a space to house the room.

With parts of the campus in transition for remodel, the rest

editorial

of the semester will be devoted to finding the Endorsing perfect space, Ferguson said. life, spirit The space wouldn’t need The Advocate to be in any discusses the specific build- benefits of ing or location an Interfaith on campus, as Meditation long as it can accommodate Room and more than 10 common misstudents at a conceptions. time.

It would be modeled as a PAGE A2 learning center with pillows for meditation, mats for yoga and praying, as well as a bookshelf for different kinds of literature and informative pamphlets.

An Interfaith Meditation Room would be joining an array of other spaces that CCC has developed and dedicated to its students over the past couple of months including the lactation room, LGBTQ+ Safe Zones, a food pantry and showers.

These spaces aim to connect and care for the diverse student body that CCC serves.

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WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 3.29.2017 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE

campusbeat

SLEUTHS INSPECT FAKE CRIME ASU organizes ‘Murder Mystery,’ names top gumshoe

BY Denis Perez PHOTO EDITOR

dperez.theadvocate@gmail.com

A fictional murder and mystery attracted students who tried to figure out who killed Jose in the Campus Center Plaza during a event organized by the Associated Student Union on Thursday ASU Senator Jackie Ortiz said the “Murder Mystery” event’s main purpose was just for students to participate and have fun.

Ortiz said the interactive event was a way to challenge students while getting them to interact with each other during their free time on campus.

Ortiz A S U Director of Public Relations Francis Samson said the event started at the Campus Center Plaza where students got their passport.

Participants who completed the passport by visiting the four booths set up at nearby buildings and guessed who murdered Jose were able to trade it for pizza.

Liberal arts major Aleema Tahir said it was fun playing the game and it gave her an opportunity to use skills that she accumulated in school.

Tahir said she took a forensics class in high school and this reminded her of that experience and how challenging solving a crime — even a fictional one — could be.

She said taking an English 1A class also prepared her to take notes on everything that she saw at each table and said she enjoyed thinking everything out.

“I don’t care about the prizes, but I’m focused on just enjoying the event because I am on campus all day. Events like this bring joy and excitement to the normal school day.”

Michael Murray, ASU “I don’t senator, said the second care about table, set the prizes, but up outside the Student I’m focused S e r v i c e on just enjoyCenter, was where people ing the event could read because I am a speech of on campus all the statement and see day. Events a picture of like this bring the murder joy and exciteweapon.

E a c h ment to the booth contained a dif- normal school ferent piece day. of evidence — Aleema Tahir, that helped liberal arts major students come to a conclusion as to who was the fictional murderer, Murray said.

“The student could ask me questions and they would be answered without spoiling anything,” he said.

Ortiz said the third table in the Amphitheater was a display of pictures of the suspects and the fourth and final table held transcripts of interviews with suspects from police interrogations.

Ortiz said participants finished by going around to the booths to bring the passport back to the first table and write who the killer was on the blank backside of the passport.

She said the participants had to include their name, their cell phone number, the time of the murder and the name of the suspect, with a quick description of the player’s reasoning for their conclusion.

The student to correctly guess the murderer first was awarded a Kindle Fire e-reader the next day.

The four runner-ups received a $25 Amazon gift card.

Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics major Sheejal Luitel said he saw the event as a way to promote the ASU. Luitel said the campus should be a place where scholars are able to unite to promote student life and increase awareness about the ASU.

ASU Senator Michael Murray (center) paints ASU Vice President of Club affairs Jose Arbelo’s shirt red as ASU Vice President Alexander Walker Griffin (left) pretends to cry during the “Murder Mystery” event at the Student Center Plaza on Thursday.

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Marketing to bolster outreach, enrollment

BY Anthony Kinney NEWS EDITOR

akinney.theadvocate@gmail.com

The Century Richmond Hilltop 16 movie theater will present a Contra Costa College promotional ad in between film trailers, starting in April, to raise the community’s awareness and increase enrollment.

Just in time for spring break and summer dates, the 30-second ad will run before select films from April to the end of the May, concluding in June, then will begin showing again in July until the end of August.

Dean of Enrollment Services Dennis Franco said the idea behind the advertisement aims to heighten the community’s awareness of the college and the enrollment process while highlighting the degrees and courses the campus offers, such as Career Technical Education (CTE) certifications.

“We offer some of the best programs in the area, but the community doesn’t necessarily know, so this is a way to help people understand that better,” Franco said.

He said CCC is nestled in an area that’s not easily seen from any freeway or main thoroughfare, so it’s great to promote the college at Century 16 to remind the community there’s a premier community college in their backyard.

“Believe it or not — not everyone in the community knows there’s a college here,” Franco said. “We want to heighten the profile of the college so the community knows they don’t have to go far for a good education.”

CCC’s Marketing and Media Design

“Believe it or not — not everyone in the community knows there’s a college here.”

— Denis Franco, dean of enrollment services

Director Brandy Howard said, “Seventy plus percent of young people between the ages of 18-24 are moviegoers, so we know this is a good way to reach our target population.”

According to Franco, the promotional ad will provide a general overview of the college, its courses and a step-by-step visual guide of the “three steps to success” enrollment process; taking the assessment test, attending orientation and building an educational plan.

Franco said the ad will also display the newly constructed campus buildings.

“For a long time, the campus was somewhat fragmented because of construction,” he said.

“But now the campus has a more cohesive feel to it and we want to let the people know that’s happening.”

Political science major Talia Padilla said running an advertisement at Century 16 is a great way to promote the college among young folks because the movies are such a popular spot for families to spend their downtime.

“Many parents bring their kids to the theaters, so promoting the concept of college there will increase the probability of those kids becoming college students. It will affect them on a subconscious level at the very minimum,” Padilla said. “It’s a good way to reach out.”

The Cinemark-operated Century Hilltop 16

Theater opened its doors in September 2001.

The 16-screen multiplex enjoys the advantage of being the only commercial theater of its size in the area.

Howard said running the ad will cost the college $9,800, a favorable deal for the college when all details are considered.

The cost includes the advertisement’s development and the showing of the ad for four months, in addition to advertising on the theater’s mobile app and a CCC digital lobby display at the Century Hilltop Theater.

Franco said because the ad will highlight the college’s “three steps to success” enrollment process, the funding for the ad was provided by the Student Success and Support Program.

The program, which is bonded with a California categorical budget, allows its finances to go toward advertising and promotion of the college.

“We’re being creative and utilizing the funding we get from the state in appropriate ways to let people know, ‘yes we’re here and here are the steps necessary to be successful in college,’” he said.

Howard said the Hilltop theater ad will assist CCC’s email marketing system, which is the college’s primary way of reaching out to current students and students who have applied to the college but are not yet enrolled.

She said the college is experimenting with mobile app advertising also.

“We want to remind the community how much of a ‘gem’ we are,” Howard said.

Initial report misjudges costs Knox Center’s structural damage exceeds $10,000

BY Benjamin Bassham NEWS EDITOR

bbassham.theadvocate@gmail.com

Repairs to the Knox Center, after a drunk driver crashed into it, are scheduled to begin in two to three weeks, but at four times the predicted expense.

“It is a very high priority for us, so we’re pushing forward very quickly,” district Facilities Planner Ray Pyle said.

The Feb. 15 crash struck the corner of the women’s rest room, at the front of the theater.

Initially, the damage was thought to be mostly cosmetic and easily repaired. The wall was cracked and pitted outside, the mirrors, soap dispensers and some drywall were knocked off inside.

Buildings and Grounds Manager Bruce King said, “I had a contractor that did a real quick report.” The estimated price was $5,700, but the contractor didn’t open the wall to check inside.

The driver, Jesse Alexander Hix Dunning, didn’t have any insurance, which is bad news for everyone involved.

Business Services Director Mariles Magalong said, “We (Contra Costa College) have our own insurance, but we have a $10,000 deductible, so we have to pay for the first $10,000.”

King said, “We thought that if we did the landscaping ourselves, then it would be under the $10,000 deductible.” If it were, the college’s insurance would remain unused.

A week later, King brought help to inspect the damage in greater detail. King said the professional carpenter was concerned because it’s an area that’s sensitive.

Magalong said King and his staff peeled the

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Drama professor Kathryn McCharty looks at the tarp covered crash site for the first time outside of the Knox Center on Monday.

wall open and found that structural beams had been damaged. She said, “When Bruce saw the structural damage, he said, ‘I think that’s going to be more than $10,000.’”

King said one beam had been shoved an inch off its foundation and cracks were found going several ways in the structure. King said it’s “just enough to make us nervous.”

Extra bracing was added to the structure to keep it secure while waiting for repairs.

King said, “We were lucky it didn’t hit pipes or electrical (wiring). We didn’t have to shut off power, water or gas. It didn’t affect utilities for the building at all. It’s just some (boards) that need to be replaced.”

The damaged rest room still remains open for use, supports and all.

The project was turned it over to Critical Solutions, CCC’s construction consultants, King said.

Pyle said bids were sought from three contractors, who inspected the site, and CCC selected the lowest price offered.

Magalong said she heard from Critical Solutions the cost would be about $27,000, Pyle estimated $20,000 and King said his best guess is $20-$25,000.

Pyle said the purchase requisition has been approved, and it’ll take about a week to sort out the insurance.

King said he doesn’t expect delays because there are no specialized parts to order, just stucco, sheet rock, two-by-fours, two-by-sixes and mirrors.

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Rapper Drake released his new album “More Life” on March 18. Drake experiments with British sounds in this 21-song playlist.

SPECIAL TO/ THE ADVOCATE

PLAYLIST RELEASE UNDERWHELMS

By Xavier Johnson SCENE EDITOR

xjohnson.theadvocate@gmail.com

T

he biggest hip-hop artist alive, Drake, is back again with a new full-length project that has a little something musically for fans of any period of Drake’s long career, but ultimately feels like a disjointed and overly long release of B-sides.

“More Life” is a 21-song playlist released on March 18 to great fanfare.

In a show of how big Drake is, this project achieved a record-breaking 61.3 million streams in a single day on Spotify.

This is remarkable considering the main single released from this project is “Fake Love,” which wasn’t nearly as big as “Hotline Bling,” “Controlla” or “One Dance” from Drake’s last album “Views.”

Clearly this new release was highly anticipated, but did it live up to the hype?

No, but it’s a fine little release that’ll be forgotten in a month with the exception of a few songs.

Drake marketed this as a “playlist” which seems like a marketing tactic to explain away a sub-par release.

A stand-out theme throughout “More Life” is the strong influence of British hip-hop culture.

Drake has been experimenting with

Caribbean and African sounds and slang for over a year to good success.

On this release, Drake adds the British influence from patois used in London, taking musically from grime, a style of hip-hop native to Britain, and featuring several up-and-coming British artists.

Drake uses his platform to introduce British artists Skepta, Jorja, Sampha and Giggs to a global audience and allows each artist to shine.

Sampha and Skepta each get their own song to show their skills.

Giggs and Jorja get the chance to mix their styles with Drake, and in each case they complement each other.

The standout track is Sampha’s “4422.” Sampha’s emotional singing melds with the slow, spacious beat to create a song to get lost in.

The tracks with these artists are good because they have something to prove.

This project is a big opportunity for them to get name recognition. And they all came with solid performances.

Now Drake doesn’t just feature a bunch of British artists and take a back seat. This is his playlist, after all. Drake delivers a mix of songs that bounces around sonically.

He has tracks that are reminiscent of Drake from 2011 and 2013, as well as the current, heavily Caribbeaninfluenced style.

His poor efforts on the album come from songs like “Madiba Riddum” and “Blem,” that sound just like Drake’s recent output of dancehall-influenced tracks. They sound like throwaways from the “Hotline Bling” and “Controlla” recording sessions.

The first 11 songs of the project are rocky. Musically they bounce all over the ALBUM place and give the projREVIEW ect a lack of cohesion “More Life” that ends up being Artist: Drake unappealing. There Genre: Hip-hop isn’t much that sticks Label: OVO on first listen.

Sound Also, the threeRelease Date: March 18 song run of “Get it Together,” “Madiba Riddum” and “Blem” is absolutely painful to get through — three straight tracks of uninspired Drake dancehall? How enticing.

One huge bright spot in the average first 11 songs, however, is “Passionfruit.”

Drake’s voice nestles right into the soothing beat with nice driving percussion and a catchy melody. This is Drake at his best.

“More Life” hits its groove in its latter half. Each of the last 11 tracks has its own feel and sounds more like carefully crafted songs than B-sides and letting talented British artists do their thing.

This second half is reminiscent of the classic Drake R&B and hip-hop styles he hasn’t revisited in a while.

“Can’t Have Everything” sounds like it could fit right in on “Take Care,” with the heavy beat and Drake’s consistent recognizable flow. “Teenage Fever” is a fun little track about his current relationship with his teenage celebrity crush Jennifer Lopez. The closing track, “Do Not Disturb,” is a deeply personal rap song with no hook that can be found on every Drake album.

Drake also brings in some of his big name features for the end of the album to some mixed results. “Sacrifices” has two solid features from 2 Chainz and a surprisingly coherent Young Thug.

Kanye West pops in with a nice feature on “Glow” as well.

Then there’s “Portland” featuring Quavo, of Migos fame, and Travis Scott. This song is fine, but sounds like a throwaway Migos mixtape track.

“Ice Melts,” featuring Young Thug, just sounds like a shameless attempt to copy the popular track “Broccoli” by D.R.A.M. Ultimately, this project is filled with cool ideas that don’t amount to anything memorable. There are some good songs that have about a week of replay value. There’s even a great song in “Passionfruit.” However, as a full project it’s disappointing.

Cheaper options overshadow cuisine Aqua

By Anthony Kinney

Terra

akinney.theadvocate@gmail.com

Grill forgotten, but viable, option for dine-in ambiance

NEWS EDITOR

F

or on-campus dining, students usually rely on Brix and Pronto to satiate their hunger and Aqua Terra Grill is forgotten when discussing dining options.

The sit-down restaurant operated by the culinary arts department is located in SA-130 and is open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday every week.

During my visit to Aqua Terra Grill, the customer service at a base FOOD level was so good REVIEW I almost forget “Aqua Terra the staff members Grill” were students.

Cuisine: But, under closer American examination it Where: SA-130 became evident Price Range: there was a lack of $ attention paid to the details.

I arrived at the restaurant 15 minutes after its opening time to see the “closed” sign still sitting in the window.

Disheartened, I opened the front door and asked the hostess at the front desk, “Are you guys open?”

With a look of shock on her face she replied, “Of course,” as she frantically pulled the sign from the window. She then showed me to the bar where I sat down and was greeted by my waitress.

The charming setting was striking. The soft jazz playing through

the restaurant’s speakers complemented the natural lighting and dark wood tables to create a soothing and friendly ambiance. My waitress made my lunch experience lighthearted and entertaining with her pleasant conversation and quick, accurate service. I sat down with my iced tea and perused the menu.

The restaurant’s short list of entrées was disappointing, but the available options are reasonably priced. And although limited, the menu embraces a variety of cuisine ranging from black tiger prawns and sautéed shrimp to rigatoni and chicken cakes. It doesn’t hurt that nothing is priced over $7.

I decided on the $7 New York steak cooked medium-rare with fingerling potatoes. The wait time for my steak was roughly 10 minutes. Not bad, considering the rush of customers the restaurant was experiencing. The staff was able to handle the rush well and still get food out at a reasonable time. This is necessary for hungry students who want to eat lunch before class.

Once my meal arrived I cut into my steak and was pleased to see the red-pink center expected from a medium-rare steak. I was impressed with how good the tender and well-seasoned steak tasted.

No steak sauce was needed, nor was any offered. The fingerling potatoes, however, were overcooked and unappealing.

I was offered dessert at the tail end of my lunch. There’s an astonishing assortment of delicious

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Culinary arts major Carissa Garcia pours a chocolate mix into a cone the Aqua Terra Grill kitchen area on Tuesday.

dishes on the dessert menu. The options included strawberry cake, blueberry cheesecake, lemon ginger pie and a salted caramel brownie topped with vanilla ice cream.

Culinary arts students studying commercial baking make the desserts.

I decided on the orange chocolate cake layered with white frosting and sprinkled with finely minced orange shavings. The orange chocolate cake was deliciously moist and possessed a refreshing hint of orange that made my palate backflip.

Although the waiting staff was attentive and well trained, they appeared to lack attention to detail

when it comes to the “smaller things” incorporated with restaurant customer service. I had to ask for utensils for the dessert I ordered.

While paying my inexpensive $11 bill, I witnessed another customer hastily opening her carry out bag to check her order only to realize she was missing utensils. The staff was apologetic and promptly fixed their mistake.

Despite these small shortcomings, the food and overall dining experience was enjoyable. Aqua Terra Grill deserves to be thought of as a viable dining option alongside Pronto and Brix when students are deciding where to eat.

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Unleashed

MOVIES

New Releases: “Ghost in the Shell” (PG13)

Piano tuner Victor Manuel (right) played

by Sean Teal, flashes a light into a piano as Sofia Celia, played

by Jelaine Maestas, and Maria Celia, played by Akilah Kamau, watch during a performance of “Two Sisters and a Piano” in the Knox Center on Thursday.

“The Boss Baby” (PG) “Life” (R) “Power Rangers” (PG-13)

BLU-RAYS

Intimacy fortifies play DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

New releases: “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (PG13) “Patriots Day” (R) “Why Him?” (R) “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (PG-13)

MUSIC

New releases: Mastodon: “Emperor of Sand” Freddie Gibbs: “You Only Live 2wice” Body Count: “Bloodlust” Kendrick Lamar: “The Heart Part 4”

By Xavier Johnson SCENE EDITOR

xjohnson.theadvocate@gmail.com

A

wonderful, well-performed and intimate play opened up the latter half of the drama department’s 201617 theater season.

“Two Sisters and a Piano,” written by Cuban playwright Nilo Cruz and directed by drama professor Tara Blau, is a great play with strong acting and good attention to detail as the set, sound, and video elements make it easy to buy into the world and invest in its characters.

The play takes place in a small apartment in early 1990s Havana, Cuba during the Pan-American Games. A married writer, Maria Celia, played by Akilah Kamau, and her younger pianist sister Sofia, played by Jelaine Maestas, are under house arrest after serving two years in prison for Maria’s politically charged writing.

Two outsiders enter into the sisters’ lives during the play. The first is Lieutenant Portuondo,

Miscast struggle to show character depth, personality

New releases: “Persona 5” (M) “MLB: The Show 17” (E) “Rain World” (NR) “Vikings: Wolves of Midgard” (M)

Editor’s note: This column lists popular new (and upcoming) releases for the week.

— Xavier Johnson

that are noticeable due to the close proximity. A glance or small touch told a lot about who their characters are and what emotions they are going through at that moment.

Unfortunately, some of these great non-verbal acting moments are lost and hurt PLAY the emotional REVIEW impact of certain “Two Sisters and scenes because a Piano” several times their backs would be Director: Tara Blau facing the audiWhere: Knox ence. It didn’t Center seem intentional, When: March just poor posi16-18, 23-25 tioning on stage.

The natural interactions aren’t just between the sisters, but the moments Kamau and Maestas have interacting with Teal and Loza are enthralling. The short moments Maestas and Teal have together are lighthearted and cute, but even during these lighthearted moments there is an overlaying sense of dread. Usually that dread comes from Lt. Portuondo enter-

ing the Celia home.

Lt. Portuondo’s presence in every scene is a reminder of the situation the sisters are in. He steps into their home like it’s his place. He represents the oppressive regime that led to the Celia sisters’ imprisonment.

Loza portrays his character confidently and creates tension throughout all of his interactions.

The moments when he asserts himself or becomes angry, the whole mood shifts and becomes uncomfortable. There are a lot of moments that Loza sounds stiff in the delivery of his lines but it’s a small issue made up by his overall strong presence.

The sound and video elements contribute positively to the overall atmosphere. Cuban music played in between scenes is just a nice addition to add to the mood.

Another nice addition is the use of video to open the first and second acts establishing the historical context of the time in which the play is set.

‘UNINSPIRED’ ACTING, WRITING MAR SERIES actors

GAMES

played by Diego Loza, a Cuban military officer who enters into the sisters’ home and gains an interest in Maria. The second is Victor Manuel, played by Sean Teal, a piano tuner who appears in act one and has a short relationship with Sofia.

There was audience seating available on the stage and it was a smart decision to allow it. Being so close to the actors allows the subtle moments to truly shine in a way that might not be appreciated from the back of the house. The closeness also gives the feeling of being in the apartment with the Celia sisters.

This show’s strength is how the actors interact with one another.

The chemistry between Kamau and Maestas is the best part of the show. Each of their interactions are natural. There are moments throughout that felt just like two sisters arguing or laughing and the audience is just peeking into someone’s real life.

Kamau and Maestas had great, small, non-verbal communications

By Reggie Santini SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

rsantini.theadvocate@gmail.com

M

arvel’s latest Netflix series, “Iron Fist,” is a fun but flawed addition to its great lineup of TV shows.

The show focuses on the story of Daniel “Danny” Rand, the son of a billionaire businessman. Danny is taken to a monastery known as K’un-Lun, where he learns martial arts and how to use the power of the Iron Fist, taught to him by K’un-Lun monks. He returns to New York after 15 years to resume his life and continue the mission the monks gave him.

The audience spends most of the series watching TV REVIEW another “Iron Fist” superheroorigin story Starring: Finn with nothing Jones, Jessica really new Henwick, Rosario added. The Dawson Network: Netflix show’s bigRating: TV-MA gest problems Genre: Action come from its title character. The show struggles to give Danny any real personality and character development, leaving the audience not caring about the fate of its lead character.

Finn Jones is miscast as the lead actor. Despite his great acting abilities, he is

SPECIAL TO / THE ADVOCATE

Marvel’s “Iron Fist” premiered on Netflix on March 17 with a full season of 13 episodes available on launch day.

not able to pull off Iron Fist’s trademark skills and martial arts expertise. The fight scenes feel staged and slow compared to those of real martial arts films. Jones can deliver great emotional scenes, but the writing is not consistent with the character. It is an injustice to Jones’ acting ability to have him play a character so poorly developed by the writers.

Harold Meachum, the series’ foe, is equally under-written and badly developed. The character spends the majority of the show scheming and plotting

as typical evil businessmen do.

When he finally sets his plan in motion it is jarring how extreme his actions are. David Wenham’s portrayal of Harold comes off as bored and uninspired.

Jessica Henwick’s portrayal of Colleen Wing is the series’ standout performance.

Henwick’s fighting skills and fantastic acting make her a more interesting character than Iron Fist himself.

Rosario Dawson’s Claire Temple often seems like she is placed into the show to serve as the hero’s medic and link

to the Defenders (Marvel’s upcoming superhero mashup). Nevertheless her scenes are strong and emotional.

If you are expecting this to live up to Marvel’s “Daredevil,” “Luke Cage” or “Jessica Jones” you will be disappointed.

“Iron Fist” is not perfect, but if you can sit through the slow start and some cheesy fight scenes, it is an enjoyable part of the Marvel universe.

The show gets enormously better after the first three, episodes as we see a greater amount of fan service and more stylized scenes.

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■ OFF THE RECORD

efrainvaldez

NFL OWNERS VOTE REMOVES RAIDERS FROM OAKLAND

R

ipping out the heart and torching the soul of Raider fans in the East Bay, the NFL owners voted on Monday to approve the relocation of the Oakland Raiders to Las Vegas.

Mark Davis and the other 31 NFL owners voted 31-1 to take away one of the most historic football teams in professional sports from Oakland, the city that housed the Raiders for two stints totally 44 years.

The county of Alameda and the city of Oakland declined to raise taxes on their local citizenry, mostly lower income folks.

Oakland, however, did offer $200 million in one of the first stadium plans that the city tried to get done.

Davis failed to even think about searching for private financing for a football stadium in Oakland. He easily found investors in Las Vegas, like casino mogul Sheldon Adelson, Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase.

Davis claims that he has explored every option in Oakland. He has only tried to extort the city and its residents of money that could go toward things that matter like failing infrastructure, police, schools and an increasing homeless problem.

This break-up between team and city makes it seem like Oakland got the worst part of the deal, but did they really?

Las Vegas and Nevada taxpayers statewide will be paying the $750 million tab that Davis and the Nevada State Legislature have agreed upon.

In fact, Oakland and the East Bay are the real winners in this move of greed by Davis and company. Even though this break-up brings pain to fans around the region, it encourages struggling cities like Oakland to stand up against the greed of NFL owners.

It shows that Oakland, led

by Mayor Libby Schaff, is done dealing with the stupidity that Davis has brought to the table, in effect blackmailing city officials and residents.

Also, this shows that the city is only serious in keeping teams that are willing to invest in the community.

The Oakland A’s have been a prime example of wanting to invest in Oakland. The organization has embraced the rich culture and history that the city offers.

Davis’ obsession with Las Vegas, and the public funds that would be at his disposal there, was the determining factor in the relocation. If Davis put half of that effort into staying in Oakland, the Raiders would be staying in the East Bay. The Raiders traded the sixth largest TV market in the country for Las Vegas’ 40th ranked size. After all the lights and glamour are gone, the city, state, Davis and his investors will get a taste of the classic Las Vegas hangover.

The fan base that Las Vegas offers will not be as resilient as that in Oakland, the billion-dollar stadium will be empty and the Nevada taxpayers will be stuck with the bill. Viva Las Vegas.

Efrain Valdez is the social media editor of The Advocate.

Contact him at evaldez.theadvocate@gmail.com.

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Comet pitcher Zuleyma Garcia-Higareda slides into home plate during the Comets’ 16-2 loss against the Los Medanos College Mustangs at the Softball Field in the first game of a doubleheader on March 14. The Comets lost the second game 16-2 as well.

Mustangs rout Comets, home team quieted in doubleheader

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

The softball team made its season debut in a doubleheader at home, but failed to make the event a memorable one, failing to convert its effort to runs and eventually losing a pair of 16-2 games against Los Medanos College March 14 at the Softball Field.

With only three sophomores on the squad, this game was the first college level competition most of the Comets (0-2 in the Bay Valley Conference) ever faced.

The team did not have any non-Bay Valley Conference games this season because of the uncertainty surrounding the prospect of beginning a season with only four teams in the BVC. “I saw some assertiveness from some of our veteran players. There were sparks of positivity,” coach Karolyn Gubbine said. “Despite the outcome, the team kept a good attitude late in the game.”

The team returns to the field to continue its rebuilding process Thursday in a doubleheader against Yuba College at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Pitching is expected to be hit-or-miss for Contra Costa College this season as no player on the roster has pitched before — on this level or at any other time in their playing careers.

“I’ve never played pitcher or first base so it motivated me a little more,” sophomore first baseman Zuleyma Garcia-Higareda said. “I’ve

“I saw some assertiveness from some of our veteran players.

There were sparks of positivity.”

— Karolyn Gubbine, Comet softball coach

always played shortstop, so coach (Gubbine) putting me in a position that I wasn’t used to made me push a little harder.”

Dierra Mize, all-BVC point guard for the CCC women’s basketball team, provided the most memorable highlight for either team on the field.

In the bottom of the first inning, Mize made solid contact with a pitch that netted the shortstop a single. After taking second base on an overthrow, she ignited her jets and motored around third and into home.

“Despite all of the obstacles we had to deal with to get the league together, I think we did pretty well,” Gubbine said.

Freshman Hulita Latu started the first game at pitcher for the Comets and despite showing some jitters, the freshman seemed up to the challenge of shouldering the responsibility of pitching in the BVC. The Mustangs (2-4 overall and 2-2 in the BVC) led by a four-hit effort from shortstop Alexandria Tellez, exploited Latu’s inexperience in the first inning, notching a whopping 10 runs to start the game.

CCC lost its first game of the season after five innings 16-2.

The Comets, still rebuilding from last year’s zero-win season, MUSTANG seemed more comfortable in the second game than in seasons past.

Despite the team’s lack of experience, only five errors in total were committed by Comet COMETS players in both games.

Mize was not the only player to get the 15 or so CCC fans in attendance to their feet.

In the second game, after being called out on an attempt to steal third base in the fourth inning, Comet freshman Desirae Armstrong challenged the left fielder’s arm after a shallow blooper to left field was hit by center fielder Victoria Lopez.

As the fielder caught the ball, Armstrong tagged third, then began her sprint toward home.

Her slide began before the ball hit the LMC catcher’s glove and as the Mustang tagged Armstrong’s sliding leg, her foot was already resting safely on home plate.

CCC lost the second game of the doubleheader by the same score of 16-2.

“Today felt great. The first game I was scared of course, but I loved it,” Armstrong said. “I thought that I wouldn’t get a hit and that I’d strike out. But it was fun.”

16 2

TOURNAMENT AIDS HERO’S FAMILY Freeway

BY Robert Clinton

shooting

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

victim sacrifices life to save friend, community mourns

SPORTS EDITOR

In recognition of the selfless act of heroism committed March 10 by Demarcus Doss, family and friends gathered to participate in the “Demarcus the Hero” basketball tournament March 18 in the Gymnasium.

Doss, a former Contra Costa College student, was shot three times on eastbound Interstate 80 between the Macdonald and San Pablo avenue exits March 9.

During the shooting, Doss used his body to shield his female passenger from further harm, sacrificing himself in the process.

The 24-year-old was pronounced dead the following day at John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek.

“I’m not surprised by his last act at all. He knew there was the possibility of dying,but without any time to decide at all he did the heroic thing,” Doss’ brother Kellis Love Jr. said. “We want the media and the community to know that he was a good man. If they didn’t know already, (judging by the turnout) they do now.”

Love, who played basketball for the Comets in 2007-08, knew there was a lot of support for the family in the athletic department and reached out to hold the tournament at CCC after being given the idea for the event by his younger sister, Shanyla Love.

Men’s basketball coach Miguel Johnson said, “(Kellis) is a former player of mine and called me with the idea. I was more than happy to oblige in any way that I could.”

just four days, backs everything everyone says up about him being a special person.”

The event brought together generations of community members, Love Sr. — Sudan Ameer Williams, from children barely rapper IAMSU large enough to hold a ball, to musical artists familiar to the area, but more Fliers began to circulate on Tuesday importantly familiar with Doss. of that week announcing the tourna“It’s always important to come ment. The entry fee was $100 per team, together, but this time it’s for a really sad and by tipoff 10 teams had registered to reason,” rapper and Doss’ friend Sudan play. Tickets for spectators were $5 at Ameer Williams, known as IAMSU, the door and nothing at the snack bar said. “I really just wanted to come here was more than $3. to pay my respects and to keep it lit for People filled the gym for the event. the family.”

The limited seating left players and As the number of teams playing spectators sitting or standing around in the tournament dwindled to two, the court, with a clear view of the action. the main rims were lowered in the Players of all shapes and sizes played Gymnasium and the championship two full court games simultaneously, game was played on the regulation colcomplete with referees, cheering fans lege court. In the end, nobody knew the and all of the things that make up a true name of the team that won, however, tournament. everyone knew the cause that every The support of friends and family participant played for. remembering Doss’ positive influence After the championship trophies served to dispel the label of “gang vio- were awarded, it was one of the players lence” used by local news media outlets on the winning team, Jamari Devertevil, at the time of the shooting. who made one of the best suggestions “The outpouring of love from family, of the day. friends and the community that are all “We just needed to get out here and here does my heart good to see that he run for him for him (Doss). It was such touched so many people,” Doss’ father, a sad situation. We really should do this Kellis Love Sr., said. “I haven’t taken every year.” it all in yet. I’m full of love right now, Love Jr. agreed. “He passed away on but love is an action word. The amount my birthday, March 10. I think it would of support that came together here, in be good to do this every year.”

“It’s always important to come together, but this time it’s for a really sad reason.

I really just wanted to come here to pay my respects and to keep it lit for the family.

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focus

FUTURE NORCAL PLAYERS TESTED Photos by: Denis Perez FOR

MORE PHOTOS, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM

High school basketball players run to their stations during the NorCal Future basketball camp to begin their day in the Gymnasium on Sunday.

ABOVE: Capital Christian High School (Sacramento) freshman Kendell Madayag goes up for a lay up during the NorCal Future basketball camp in the Gymnasium on Sunday.

Bishop O’Dowd High School (Oakland) freshman Ryzon Norris (left) dives for the ball as another player fights him for it during the NorCal Future basketball camp in the Gymnasium on Sunday.

Immanuel High School (Reedley) freshman Gavin Lloyd dunks the ball during the NorCal Future basketball camp event in the Gymnasium on Sunday.

High school freshmen basketball players go one-on-one during the NorCal Future basketball camp in the Gymnasium on Sunday.

B SECTION WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM

spotlight

“ I am forced to value my life in a way that some people never have the opportunity to — really reflecting on (our) own morality.”

Michael Peterson, senior administrative assistant

LEFT: Senior Administrative Assistant Michael Peterson will be riding his bicycle from San Francisco to Los Angeles from June 4-10 for the Ride for Life event to raise funds for AIDS awareness.

Living through adversity breeds motivation, drive DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Turning point moment presents chance to create change

BY Roxana Amparo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ramparo.theadvocate@gmail.com

Denial, grief, bargaining, depression.

These are stages that occur when a person is confronted with a life-threatening illness.

Acceptance, strength, courage, perseverance.

These happen when that person accepts the reality of their condition and usually results in the admiration of others.

When Contra Costa College Senior Executive Assistant to the President Michael Peterson was diagnosed with HIV, 10 years ago this month, he faced an uncer-

tain present and future.

“It was very frightening because I was afraid of how I would be treated by society, and by other gay people,” Peterson said.

The stigma toward people living with HIV can awaken insecurities and bring shame.

Peterson said he was afraid he would never be able to date again and afraid that when his family found out the truth they wouldn’t know how to help him.

“I was afraid I would be shunned,” he said. “I kept it secret from (family) for a good seven years, then I finally told my parents. I just recently told my siblings after 10 years of keeping it a secret.”

When telling his family, he said it was

like “coming out” all over again.

But with a fundraising goal of $10,000 that will go toward funding HIV/AIDS research, education to help reduce the rate of infections and medication for people with the virus who cannot afford it, Peterson found the vehicle with which he could share the news with his family.

“I was going to send my fundraising announcement to the whole world, and I wanted to give them a heads up,” he said.

The AIDS Lifecycle is a 545-mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles from June 4-10 that more than 3,000 SEE PETERSON, PAGE B2

PUENTE LEADER SHEDS HIS ‘COMFORT ZONE’ Preconceived notions of isolated lifestyle fractured by progress

“It’s a cliche, but DACA actually saved my life.”

Oscar Martinez, DACA student

BY Roxana Amparo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ramparo.theadvocate@gmail.com

CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

Economics major Oscar Martinez’s undocumented status inspires him to surpass the limitations of being a first generation student to educate himself and his community.

Taking the initiative to break down perceptions carried with being undocumented has motivated him to give back to the community in which he grew up.

Contra Costa College economics major Oscar Martinez is a first-generation student, mentor, coach and friend.

“Seeing a lot of students engaging and having a passion for what they are learning gave me motivation to step out of my comfort zone,” Martinez said.

With the many student leaders and club presidents that come from different backgrounds here at CCC, Martinez said he likes to do things that contribute to the community.

English professor Elvia OrnelasGarcia said Martinez excelled in the Puente Project classes (English 14A and English 142B) back in 2015.

“He is already fulfilling the Puente Project mission,” she said.

SEE MARTINEZ, PAGE B2

Policies against immigrants hurt locals

HILLTOP MALL UP FOR NEW UPGRADES

Crab Feed provides good times, tasty food

Immigration policies in the Trump administration are examined with the effect they have locally.

Community shopping plaza has been around since 1976 and is up for a massive facelift.

Hundreds of pounds of crab were served in the Gymnasium in a fundraising event Saturday.

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MSA president promotes club unity

BY Robert Clinton

Group aims to dispel modern myths about global religion

OPINION EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

Following the club’s formation in the spring of 2015, the Muslim Student Alliance (MSA) remains an active force on campus working toward improving the community and dispelling any negative stigma surrounding the Muslim community.

The club’s president, Rayah Khaled, continues to uphold the initial focus of the group despite this being her first semester at the helm of the organization.

“The overall goal of the MSA is to create a sense of community between both Muslims and non-Muslims on campus and to divest any misconceptions there are on campus about Islam and Muslims,” Khaled said.

“As for how we decide what direction the club progresses in, we try to keep in mind what we can do to help all students in any way regardless of beliefs as well as give back to our community.”

As its president, Khaled has set her own bar to measure the club’s success and effectiveness.

“My goal is to keep the MSA as active as possible and to bring many people together and to mutually agree on ways we can help, teach and give back not only to our school, but to other individuals as well,” she said.

The MSA is an inclusive club and allows members of all kinds to join their ranks to help educate and spread awareness across the campus.

Non-Muslim members of the club feel at home in the group and think that being associated with the group is a positive influence on themselves and for others who may think the MSA is a segregated community.

In this era of weaponized information, fake news and alternative facts, these members exemplify the true nature of the club and its purpose.

Nursing major Sarabjot Kaur is one of the non-Muslim members of the club

CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

Muslim Student Association President Rayah Khaled designates tasks to members during their club meeting in the Student Administration Building on March 22. Khaled’s approach for the club is to be active on campus.

“We are not monsters. We are normal people like everyone else.”

— Asma Alkrizy, English major

and joined out of a sense of kinship with some of her friends who are MSA affiliates.

“I want to learn more about their religion and what they put up with. I have a lot of Muslim friends and I can relate to them being from India,” Kaur said.

“There are a lot of Muslims in India and I find their culture beautiful. The MSA feels like family because we connect.”

Kaur also hopes her association with the MSA will encourage others to overcome perceived notions and personal barriers that prevent them from strengthening bonds with students from different cultures on campus.

“If I’m a part of it, it may give others the courage to learn about each other’s cultures,” she said.

The club’s strategy of inclusiveness was put into action this semester when Khaled proposed the creation of an interfaith observance space to allow students from any religion a quiet space to meditate, pray or observe spiritual or cultural doctrines in peace.

A quiet corner of this type is not yet available on campus.

As of now, Muslim students find

solace for prayer in the back of the Library and Resource Learning Center.

The efforts of the MSA could provide a benefit to all students on campus while having a lasting effect toward dispelling common misconceptions about the religion and the students who practice it — even as politicians and pundits continue to present the religion as some global scourge.

“We are not monsters. We are normal people like everyone else,” English major Asma Alkrizy said.

“The MSA exists to help people understand the misconceptions of Islam and the ways all religions can be friendly to each other — ultimately strengthening the bonds between those religions,” she said.

PETERSON | Obstacles provide an opportunity for personal growth Continued from Page B1 cyclists will participate in to raise funds for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBT Center.

Peterson said his cycling fundraiser is personal for him. It helped his own sanity and allowed him to accept himself as he is.

“When I first was diagnosed, I thought I was going to die — and die alone,” he said.

At 27, Peterson found out he had Kaposi’s sarcoma, a cancer that causes lesions in the skin. His immune system weakened and his CD4 (a type of white blood cell that fights infection) count was 57. A count below 200 means a person is living with HIV. Peterson said with the help of his physician, Dr. Miriam Cameron, he was able to recover and has been taking medication to fight the virus and stay alive.

“If I don’t take my medication every day, I will die. I cannot skip a dose,” he said. “I have extra doses in my desk. I have extra doses in my truck — (I have them) everywhere I go.”

The fact that others with HIV need the

same medication, and that it may not be affordable or accessible to them, has driven Peterson to take action.

“That’s why I do this ride. To help other people who are experiencing what I have experienced.”

He said he needed to ride for his own therapeutic help. “It’s helped me release a lot of the shame I felt about having my disease.”

Peterson said living with HIV has given him a “deeper” appreciation for other people who suffer from the condition.

“It’s almost a blessing in disguise,” he said.

“I am forced to value my life in a way that some people never have the opportunity to — really reflecting on (our) own morality.”

The initial reaction of people finding out about Peterson’s condition is shock because they haven’t met someone who is HIV positive before, he said.

Foundation Development Officer Sara Marcellino said she found out during a conversation she had with Peterson. She works in an office across from Peterson’s desk inside SA-201 and outside of the President’s Office, and is able to see him on a daily basis.

“It was very frightening because I was afraid of how I would be treated by society, and by other gay people.”

— Michael Peterson, senior executive assistant

“My feeling when I found out was pride.

He is taking steps to live a full life as anyone with (HIV) can today,” Marcellino said.

She said she was proud of Peterson when he decided to be a part of the Lifecycle fundraiser and supports his cause and that he believes it is his mission to be serving the students of this college.

President Mojdeh Mehdizadeh said Peterson is “highly” professional and a dedicated member of the college and his HIV status does not affect the work he does.

“When Michael shared his HIV status, I felt honored that he trusted me with the information. And on a personal level, I felt love and compassion toward him,”

Mehdizadeh said.

Marcellino said working with Peterson brings her joy. “He is smart. He is funny.

Michael is really compassionate and such a heartfelt person.”

Peterson said when he found out he was HIV positive he became “cynical” about life.

He was forced into adulthood.

But he said he felt it was necessary to be upfront about his status with the people he dated. “I’ve had people who told me ‘I don’t date someone who is HIV positive’,” he said.

“Testing (for the condition) is so necessary,” he said.

With medical advances, Peterson said, he has gone from taking eight pills a day to just two in the morning for the last five years. He has a lot more energy and is probably the healthiest he’s ever been.

“Once I was so secretive about it. Now I don’t care who knows because I will never allow the stigma to prevent me from living.

I will never allow myself to be judged for it.

Awareness destroys fear.”

To support Peterson’s ride, visit http:// www.tofighthiv.org/goto/Spud_Peterson.

MARTINEZ | Personal story exposes hardships of immigration Continued from Page B1 The goal of the project is to produce students who will return to their communities and give back.

“He is a great example to other students who face challenges of being first generation and AB540 (qualified undocumented student paying in-state tuition) students,” Ornelas-Garcia said. “Especially in these political times.”

Martinez immigrated to the United States from Chimalhuán, Mexico in 2002 when he was 5 years old.

“I used my cousin’s birth certificate. We were both around the same age,” Martinez said.

He said he remembers seeing pictures of cracked walls and floors while living in Mexico.

“We were very poor,” he said.

“My mom’s family, her brothers and two sisters, lived in one small house. There were more than 20 people living there,” he said.

“I remember wearing wornout clothes. They told me we were always eating beans and tortillas.”

After arriving in Richmond in 2002, Martinez lived with his grandmother Trinidad, who took care of him while his mom was still in Mexico.

Since he was a child it was instilled in him to not share his undocumented status with anyone.

“My grandmother would always tell me ‘don’t say where you are from. Just say you are from Richmond, born in Richmond,’” Martinez said. “I have always been told to be careful and to hide my status.”

From an early age, Martinez said he understood that being undocumented meant he was “not allowed to be here, legally.”

“My grandmother instilled within me that fear of being undocumented. Even though it was for my own protection,” he said. “ I was always scared to do anything.”

The fear of being deported created barriers for Martinez.

But back in June 2012, when President Obama’s executive order Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was enacted, qualifying undocumented students were protected from deportation and granted a renewable 2-year work permit.

Martinez was attending Richmond High School at the time of DACA. “DACA gave me hope. It gave me the motivation to go to college,” he said.

Throughout his life, Martinez

“My grandmother instilled within me the fear of being undocumented.

Even though it was for my own protection, I was scared to do anything.

— Oscar Martinez, DACA student

heard family members and others talk about how undocumented students are not “equipped” to go to college because they cannot receive financial aid.

“It’s a cliche, but DACA actually saved my life,” he said.

Seeing other DACA beneficiaries made Martinez realize he too could share his story and inspire people.

Psychology major Enrique Duarte said he began to see changes in Martinez around the time of President Donald Trump’s election.

“I saw him really come out of his shell,” he said. “He is a DACA student and this really affected him emotionally.”

Duarte and Martinez met in the Puente Club, a branch from the Puente Project, with student leaders who promote education through university trips and family-like support systems.

Martinez is treasurer of the Puente Club and said he enjoys managing money raised through fundraising events.

La Raza studies professor Agustin Palacios said Martinez is aware of what is going on and how the government affects him and community, he said.

Palacios is Martinez’s mentor who was assigned to him back in 2015 when he was part of the Puente Project.

“He keeps me grounded. I know that my work, or my job as a teacher or mentor, is part of a larger struggle,” Palacios said. “It reminds me of the bigger picture.”

Invested in his studies and taking 12 units, Martinez is also a writing tutor at his alma mater Lavonya DeJean Middle School as part of the WriterCoach Connection.

The goal of the WCC is to raise writing proficiency, develop critical thinking and build academic confidence.

When he started back in November, he was able to form connections with students on a deeper level.

“I really enjoy working there because I worked with ELD students,” Martinez said.

“I talk to them about their status and how I am undocumented too.

I motivate them and tell them they can get better at schoolwork. They just have to try really hard.”

WriterCoach Connection site coordinator at Lovonya Dejean Middle School Riti Dhesi said the WCC is “very lucky” to have him as a coach.

“He is very sensitive to students in the way he works,” she said.

WriterCoach Connection recruitment coordinator June Pangelinan said Martinez realizes students need to see people who look like them in their school.” “(Students) know that a young man, such as Oscar, would have a better sense of what their lives must be like, navigating the challenges of being a middle school student and a young person in Richmond,” Pangelinan said.

Martinez said everything he does is for his parents.

“Knowing that their whole life was work and hard labor, I wanted to be that role model from them so they can see their accomplishments through me,” he said.

Martinez said the most damaging thing for an undocumented person is to be afraid.

“Don’t be afraid, — nor apologetic. You are put through circumstances in life that you cannot control,” he said.

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‘Outsider’ destroys label Scholar conquers stereotypes, achieves educational goals

BY Michael Santone ASSOCIATE EDITOR

msantone.theadvocate@gmail.com

Growing up as a woman of color in a new country with a culture that differs from your own can be a struggle on many levels.

But for Middle College High School senior Andrea Webb, these adversities of cliched stereotypes and childhood misunderstanding have propelled her forward to become an academic scholar and visionary.

Set to graduate from MCHS in June and to receive a liberal arts degree in math and science from Contra Costa College in May, she has participated in an illustrious list of extracurricular activities and positioned herself in the top 10 of her graduating class of 53 students.

Through consistent ambition, dedication and hours of application, Webb single-handedly got herself accepted to her dream educational institute, Amherst College in Massachusetts.

“I am fueled by the knowledge that I have no option but to succeed,” she said, “Every success I receive has to be earned.”

For Webb, this was a reality instilled and understood at a very young age.

She was born in Maiduguri, Nigeria, to intellectual parents whose desire for their daughter’s education was paramount.

In 2000, when she was one year old, Webb’s parents made the decision to move to the United States where the quality of public education was more stable.

“Both of my parents went to college,” she said, “My mother wanted my sister and I to receive a better education than she did.”

With a slight accent due to the Nigerian Pidgin dialect spoken at home, the benevolent and studious Webb began attending Collins Elementary School in Pinole.

It was there where she encountered teasing and racism by classmates because of her skin color and accent with the mixture of English and English Pidgin words she used.

“It was easy to be an outsider,” she said.

“It made me really shy for the majority of my life.”

Worried that the clash of two distinct languages would be confusing, Webb’s parents decided to shield her from the Nigerian dialects she had grown to know.

“I was only spoken to in English and I wasn’t shown certain Nigerian things,” she said, “It became so hard to find value and pride in my culture.”

By the age of 9, Webb had practically read every book in the kid’s section at the Pinole Public Library.

But her true source of education and inspiration came from her father, who, with a Ph.D. in anthropology, introduced her to an array of scholastic material.

“I learned a lot of words and concepts

CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

Middle College High School senior Andrea Webb will graduate in May with a liberal arts degree in math and science. Webb is ranked in the top 10 in her class of 56 and plans to study political science and film at Amherst College in Massachusetts.

“I am fueled by the knowledge that I have no option but to succeed. Every success I receive has to be earned.”

— Andrea Webb, Middle College High School

from him,” she said. “I grew up wanting to be smarter than him.”

Webb, although soft spoken throughout most of her childhood, began to break out of her shell in high school.

Best friend and fellow classmate Malea Reeves, who is majoring in political law, said Webb has such high intellect and quick-wittedness that sometimes it’s hard to keep up with her. “(Webb) is the kind of person that anyone could go to for help with any problem,” Reeves said, “She’s accepting of everyone’s strengths and weaknesses.”

Webb found a voice and passion in politics during her junior year while serving in California’s Youth and Government program as vice president and National Issues commission chairperson.

During her time as vice president, Webb helped write the delegation bill, which was to allow undocumented immigrants who pay

taxes the right to vote.

“I know how terrifying it can be to be an immigrant, documented or not,” she said, “I want to be that outlet to help people.”

While commission chairperson, she wrote a proposal that would have the Department of Labor give bonuses to companies that hire disabled workers.

Being in a mostly male-dominated career field and looked down upon by her male peers only motivated Webb to achieve more.

“I realize that politics is still very much a man’s game,” she said. “I will just have to work twice as hard.”

As founder and president of the CCC Democratic Society, Webb brought together faculty and students in open discussions on the fading truths that surround the realities of what is going on with education, inequalities and minorities in the local West Contra Costa County communities.

Political science department Chairperson Vanna Gonzales said, “Webb is a born leader in the sense that she is assertive but not domineering.”

Gonzales said she was really a pleasure to have in class and very analytical, and that showed in the papers she wrote.

Webb also participated in the Black Student Union and Community Organizing and Political Action club on campus, was

assistant stage manager for the CCC production of “Wonder of the World,” and was a certified African-American Student of Honor for the West Contra Costa Unified School District for three years.

CCC adjunct professor Tara Blau said during the drama department production she remembers Webb always having a smile on her face.

“She was great with the other students and with the adults, though she was one of the youngest ones there.”

Come this fall, Webb will be across the country majoring in political science and film and media studies at the private liberal arts college, Amherst.

“This is my dream school and I decided on it a long time ago,” she said. “To think that I got accepted to it all by myself is surreal.” She has also been awarded an academic scholarship.

Webb is looking forward to college life, but will continue raising the issues that fuel her passion.

She wants to contribute and help maintain the authenticity of news, especially with its current state.

As a woman leading the charge, Webb sees her future filled with obstacles, but that’s typical of those like her who shape the world through change.

Community run promotes health Native American organizations aim to spread wellness

”Fighting the high risk of diabetes in indigenous communities is the main reason for this event.”

Camacho Tahnee,

BY Denis Perez

event staff

PHOTO EDITOR

dperez.theadvocate@gmail.com

OAKLAND — Healthy living advocates took part in 5- or 10-kilometer runs around Lake Merritt to promote community health and wellness here on Saturday.

The theme for this year’s annual “Running is My High” event focused on moving forward together as a community through being active and using running as a form of meditation.

Mountain View resident Paul Medarang said the event is a spirit run.

“Running is a prayer,” Medarang said.

The event has been going on for over 20 years and advocates turn out for the event every year to promote health awareness among people of all ages.

Medarang said they run to pray for necessities like clean water, peace and community unity.

He said, “There is a tradition here.”

People who participate in the run are givers, activists, protesters and people who care for their community’s wellness, he said.

They are here to give off good energy and receive some back, Medarang said.

There were 300 registered runners and an estimated 500 people

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Hundreds of people participated in the annual Running Is My High event to promote the health and wellness of the community in Lake Merritt in downtown Oakland, Calif. on Saturday.

total who engaged in this act of solidarity for community wellness.

San Francisco resident Sherlin Benally said the event reinforces the steps he takes toward moving forward in life.

Benally said when he runs it is a euphoric feeling. He said the natural high he feels while running allows him to envision every step he runs as a prayer for the future.

Benally said that running has been his niche for 20 months while

recovering from crystal methamphetamine addiction.

The message of moving forward has always been a key component of the event since its inception.

Volunteer staff person Camacho Tahnee said, “Fighting the high risk of diabetes in indigenous communities is one of the main reasons this event was created and now this event allows for the community to teach its younger generations to be active.”

Tahnee said it is important to teach the youth to move forward through intergenerational events like these.

She said her participation in the run marks 10 years of discovering the joys of running through community involvement.

She said she has always seen how complete families come out to participate.

Sang Mendy, a Hercules resident, said he brought his wife and

three kids to participate because he wants to show support for people not only becoming aware of their health, but taking steps to become healthy.

“I work at a hospital,” Mendy said. “So it is a privilege for me to help promote healthy living.”

He said in the present political climate, in which the healthcare system has become a problem, it is necessary to share these types of events with family and friends.

“I shared this stuff on Facebook and told all my friends about it,” he said.

The “Running is My High” event stretched from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lunch was served to participants and prizes were given out to the top three finishers in all the different categories.

There was a bouncy house and face painting for children.

The event also allowed for community outreach and promotion of other resources for the community.

Event organizer Anthony Taulo said community organizations contacted him prior to the event to set up booths for the event.

Taulo said it is important that people know where to go if they need a support group.

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Immigrants face scrutiny, hostility

immigr

White House to redefine unjust travel ban, prepares to hire 5,000 border patrol officers

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

In an attempt to make good on his campaign promises to secure America’s southern border with Mexico and restrict the free passage of Muslims across any U.S. boundaries, President Donald Trump uses executive orders to make his vision of America our reality.

Trump began his presidency by releasing a barrage of executive orders, many of which aimed to shift immigration policies to better fit his concept of a greater America.

On Jan. 25, just five days after his presidential inauguration, the president signed his 12th executive order titled “Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements.”

Trump used current laws to serve as the scaffolding for his restructured policy.

According to the order, listed on whitehouse.gov, existing laws cited in the legislation were the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) (INA), the Secure Fence Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-367) (Secure Fence Act), and the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant

Responsibility Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-208 Div. C).

The order highlighted details in current immigration laws that the incoming administration felt were too passive and needed bolstering.

Enhanced immigration policies are not only meant for states along the southern border. In addition to hiring 5,000 border patrol agents, new Federal-State Agreements have been reached to cast a wider net over America.

It gives state and local law enforcement agencies the authority to perform the functions of an immigration officer in the interior of the United States to the maximum extent permitted by law.

The order also clears a financial pathway to pay for construction of a southern border wall.

Trump was less successful on his second attempt at curbing immigration. He announced the Executive Order Protecting The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States on Jan. 27. The order restricted travel into the U.S. by foreign nationals from seven nations from the Middle East and Africa — Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Moments into its implementation, the order garnered national outrage as members of the seven majority-Muslim nations were systematically detained at American airports, most with valid temporary visas. Public outcry forced the president to rescind the order with a promise to quickly present a revised version of the ban.

The president presented his second “travel ban” March 6 in an order under the same name. The new version omits Iraq from the list and allows people who obtained visas before Jan. 27 to enter the country. Hours before it was implemented March 16, a federal judge blocked it.

Despite the attempt to orchestrate a selective international immigration enforcement, families continue to be torn apart by domestic immigration policies that have not attracted the same level of legal support.

Bi-partisan bill seeks to set workers rights

BY Denis Perez PHOTO EDITOR

dperez.theadvocate@gmail.com

With no clear plans for the 750,000 undocumented youths registered with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), supporters call for legal actions to push for an immigration pathway to permanent citizenship.

The indefinite pathway for DACA applicants prompted Republican South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham and Democratic Illinois Senator Dick Durbin to reintroduce a piece of legislation to protect DACA recipients.

Contra Costa College Dean of Institutional Efficiency and Equity Mayra Padilla said there needs to be a greater push toward making DACA a law.

She said the Bar Removal of Individuals who Dream and Grow our Economy (BRIDGE) Act would make DACA a federal law.

According to Dr. Padilla, DACA

recipients would receive an immigrant status that grants three years — unlike the two offered by DACA — of conditional amnesty.

This would allow people to have a Social Security number, identification cards, access to education and qualifications for special immigrant statuses.

Padilla said the BRIDGE Act is a step in the right direction toward the goal of a direct path for legalization.

“The best way to defend DACA is to fight for it in the legal system,” she said.

President Obama’s executive order on immigration has not been directly addressed by the Trump administration, despite controversial detentions of DACA students that generated enhanced enforcement rumors across the U.S. Shioni Akimoto, immigration attorney, said she is advising people to renew existing registrations but cautioned applicants not to apply

for DACA for the first time because of the “risk of coming out” and sharing information including, the applicants’ date and point of entry into the United States.

Still, she said, many have continued to come to apply for the first time despite the inherent risks.

CCC engineering major Yesenia Rodriguez said the reality is that DACA can be stopped at any time.

She said there needs to be optimism that it will continue to exist as an opportunity for her to attain higher education. Her goal is that the program will elevate her to a high paying job with a chance to help her community.

Ending the program would slow the opportunity for the success of undocumented youth.

The cancellation of the DACA would also cost the U.S. gross domestic product, GDP, a $433.4 billion reduction over the following 10 years, according to the Center for American Progress.

LORENZO MOROTTI / THE ADVOCATE

SANCTUARY RESOLUTION ‘ARMS’ DISTRICT EMPLOYEES Community denies federal agents access to campus

BY Roxana Amparo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ramparo.theadvocate@gmail.com

Since the November Presidential election, Contra Costa College employees have voiced their concern and confusion about their personal rights and their responsibilities to students if, and when, federal agents on campus confront them.

When the Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board granted sanctuary status to Contra Costa, Los Medanos and Diablo Valley colleges on Jan. 11, the resolution document listed guidelines to reaffirm support for, and protection of, its undocumented students and those from marginalized communities.

Now, moving forward, five statements from the original resolution were selected by the Chancellor’s Cabinet, a districtwide committee that includes representatives from each college and the District Office, to calm the fears and clarify the role of employees in case they are confronted with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

agents in the course of their work.

Chancellor Fred Wood sent out a districtwide email March 13 to notify all district employees they must immediately notify and refer any request made by any federal immigration enforcement authorities to their immediate manager.

CCC President Mojdeh Mehdizadeh said if confronted by a federal agent who requests information regarding an undocumented student or any student, employees must pass on the information to a manager who will notify her and she will notify Dr. Wood. “(Employees) can feel empowered. And you can feel knowledgeable to be able to provide some level of understanding (to students),” Mehdizadeh said.

She said the resolution will “arm” employees with information on how to address the questions they have if confronted with a situation on campus involving ICE. Five “be it resolved” statements were chosen, from the Jan. 11 Resolution No. 1-S, by the districtwide committee that wrote the resolution to clarify the role Contra Costa Community College District employees have if experiencing or witnessing an action with an ICE agent.

The “be it resolved” statements in the resolution state that district employees, including Police

“We welcome everyone, regardless of any immigration status.”

Fred Wood,

district chancellor

Services, shall not participate in any immigration enforcement efforts of federal authorities; district police will not detain or arrest any individual solely on their undocumented status; and the district will not release any personal student information without a judicial warrant, subpoena or court order, unless authorized by the student or required by law.

Wood said the district’s goal is to support students and employees at its three college campuses, its two centers (San Ramon and Brentwood) and at the District Office in Martinez.

“We welcome everyone, regardless of any immigration status,” Wood said.

He said the district wants employees to feel supported if they come face-to-face with an ICE agent.

Although there has not been any ICE or Homeland Security activity at any district facility, district Executive Vice Chancellor of Administrative Services Eugene Huff said he cannot speculate on

what might happen in the future.

CCC Dean of Institutional Effectiveness and Equity Mayra Padilla said, during the Counseling Collaborative event in the Fireside Hall on March 22, professional development activities will be created for faculty and staff to attend to ensure that everyone is on the same page if a situation where ICE did come to campus occurred.

“We are going to make sure that our policies and procedures are aligned with what we said we were going to do in the (sanctuary) resolution,” Dr. Padilla said.

Padilla is part of the districtwide ad-hoc committee that created the original resolution document.

When the original drafting of the resolution was passed and approved on Jan. 11, during a special board meeting at Diablo Valley College in the Performing Arts Center, nine “be it resolved” statements were included.

On Jan. 25, the district approved a title revision to Resolution No. 1-S. “Reaffirming Support for Contra Costa Community College District Students and Employees in Defense of Diversity and Inclusion in the Contra Costa Community College District.”

CCC Dean of Student Services Vicki Ferguson said her role in any situation involving ICE agents would be the same as any employee

in the district.

“As President Mehdizadeh stated in College Council (on March 9), if we are approached

by ICE agents, our policy is Wood to refer them to Chancellor Wood,” Ferguson said.

Mehdizadeh said, “Just because someone is in uniform doesn’t mean we must comply.”

Dr. Wood said this is an important issue, especially because there is a lot of uncertainty and anxiety from affected students and others in their families and communities.

“Thankfully, we have lawyers on speed dial,” he said.

District Director of Communication Relations Timothy Leong said, “I think we are feeling the stress that some of our students are having around this whole topic of immigration, deportation, Muslim registry, the LGBTQ population and some of the comments made (by President Donald Trump) about them.”

Mehdizadeh said the five resolution statements will ensure that students and employees are validated and protected, and that their private information is not disclosed to authorities.

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Businesses help families survive Local food, transport companies keep hiring undocumented workers

BY Reggie Santini SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

rsantini.theadvocate@gmail.com

RICHMOND — Despite high political tension nationwide over various proposed immigration policies, undocumented immigrant workers here are still working to provide for their families.

With the possibility of deportation looming one executive order away, some people are so afraid of being separated from their families that many refuse to speak about the subject.

“I know for a fact that there are many stores in the area that employ undocumented immigrants,” Bella Brazil Travel Agency owner Marcelo DeSouza said.

DeSouza said an owner’s major fear is that their business might get in trouble for saying they hire undocumented immigrants. Even though some workers might have some form of identification or a worker’s permit but are not yet fully documented.

“Especially if they have an open case for full legalization.”

According to a Pew Research report from 2008, undocumented immigrants make up 13 percent of the restaurant industry staff and cooks make up about 20 percent of undocumented workers.

La Fusion restaurant on 23rd Street in Richmond, between Hellings Avenue and Dunn Avenue, is owned by Carol Lopez.

Lopez said she immigrated to the United States from Mexico about 12 years ago to seek a better quality of life.

“I wanted to get away from all the violence and all the crime,” Lopez said.

After becoming a citizen through the naturalization process, she opened her restaurant to help her family.

She said her family investment yielded more than she imagined.

“We have been here for about two years,” she said. “In those two years this restaurant has helped my family’s financial stability immensely.“ Lopez said she hires undocumented workers, but currently only her family is working at the restaurant.

She said she hires undocumented workers who are visiting from other countries and only staying in the United States for a couple of months.

“There is no law that says I can’t hire someone who is undocumented,” Lopez said.

Despite the government providing

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Richmond resident Roseline Soza places a full tray of rice into the buffet line at La Fusion restaurant on 23rd Street in Richmond.

“That company would not exist if it weren’t for undocumented immigrants.”

— Felipa Baptista, Lyft driver

options like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM Act), not everyone fits into these programs.

Lopez said the members of the community who she met while working at her restaurant established beneficial relationships.

She said she purchases the fruits and vegetables that she uses at her restaurant at a local produce market.

This affiliated business is also owned by a family of immigrants.

“It’s like a circle,” Lopez said. “We all rely on each other to get by — especially during this time.”

She said immigrants living in the United States know they will not receive help from the government, but can rely on people in the community.

Corporations worth multi-billions of dollars also rely on undocumented workers to remain competitive in the market.

“When I first arrived in California I was working at this restaurant in San Francisco that hired undocumented people,” Lyft driver, based out of El Sobrante, Felipe Baptista said. “I was earning $9 an hour, plus tips, as a waiter.”

Baptista said when he heard about Lyft, a taxi company that processes orders through a mobile app, he applied for the AB 60 California driver’s license.

The AB 60 driver’s license does not require a Social Security number or proof of legal residence in order to apply for Lyft.

Baptista said he was worried about Lyft’s background check policy, but applied anyway using his Brazilian CPF number — which is equivalent to a Social Security number.

“Lyft will hire anyone,” Baptista said.

“People use fake socials, tax I.D. numbers, or whatever they have from their home country.”

In 2015, Lyft’s CEO John Zimmer said the company had about 100,000 drivers employed and were serving about 1 million

rides a week.

“That company would not exist if it weren’t for undocumented immigrants,” Baptista said. “Americans would not work as much as we do to earn so little without benefits.”

He said most Lyft drivers make around $1,000 a week based on commission per ride, but they have to pay for their own gas and car maintenance.

“I work 14-hour shifts to be able to earn enough to pay rent and survive.”

Baptista said drivers who work for Lyft or Uber in their home country do not have to inform the company if people leave their country of origin and begin working internationally.

They must present a driver’s license and proof of insurance in the state they are currently living in in order for the companies to activate them as a driver.

“Since I am technically an independent contractor, I was able to get a tax I.D.,” he said.

“I don’t know how these companies explain to the IRS the money they make, but I am trying to stay here — and you can bet that I am going to pay my taxes.”

Deportation fear stalls hope Trump’s executive orders ban, target immigrants rights

“I combat my fears by keeping my head low and trying my best to get good grades. What’s at stake is the future of my whole family.”

BY Micheal Santone ASSOCIATE EDITOR

msantone.theadvocate@gmail.com

Throughout the last year, the lives of undocumented students and their families have begun to fade into the shadows of obscurity and fear.

To meet his own campaign promises, Donald Trump has worked overtime, with no trepidation, to pass immigration policies that threaten the deportation of millions of people.

These tactics, which have instilled fear into the daily lives of those who make up the undocumented community, are sending shockwaves of paranoia through the Contra Costa College campus.

For nursing major Leamsi Amaya, who came into the United States too late to qualify for the Deferred Actions For Childhood Arrivals (DACA), these fears have become a reality.

Having witnessed her uncle being deported, Amaya has found herself worried and fearful that other members of her family, or even herself, will be next.

Amaya, who has two younger sisters born in the U.S., struggles with the fact that they could be left alone if anything were to happen to her family due to Trump’s immigration overhaul.

“We have no other family living in the U.S.,” she said, “My sisters would be left without anyone to care for them.”

This fear and worry of being stopped and deported at every

Leamsi Amaya, nursing major

DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

Nursing major Leamsi Amaya was interrogated for an hour in Chicago International Airport after presenting her high school ID for identification while going through security. Amaya feared showing her Mexican consular identification card and passport would get her deported to Mexico.

moment has forced Amaya to take a second look at her lifestyle and put together a plan to stay in school.

“I combat my fears by keeping my head low and trying my best to get good grades,” she said, “What’s at stake is the future of my whole family.”

Amaya and her family have been living in the United States for over 20 years. However, since the election, their mindset has completely changed.

Living in fear of attending school or allowing her parents or grandparents out of the house, has become Amaya’s new lifestyle, rooted in fear.

“I’m afraid to even let my parents go to work because I fear they won’t come home that night,” she said.

These are just some of the many effects caused by the generalization and exploitation of a community that now lives burdened by constant uncertainty.

“We are only here to give our families a better life,” Amaya said.

“It only takes a matter of time for ICE to be at one’s door step.”

And with the recent scares of ICE around the Bay Area, the heightened intensity of the situation has only escalated things to a eerie calm.

With CCC now labeling itself a sanctuary campus, the protection and privacy of its undocumented students is essential.

District Director of Police Safety and Emergency Services Ed Carney said while he understands concerns about the possibility of ICE targeting undocumented immigrants, students will be protected from federal intrusion while on campus.

Carney said that ensuring people on campus are safe is always a concern. Acting as the vanguard for students’ ability to exist freely on campus and get an education without fear of federal interference is also paramount.

“ICE considers educational, as well as religious institutions, to be ‘sensitive’ locations,” he said.

“These are areas they (immigration enforcement agents) want to avoid. You don’t typically see ICE agents come onto a college campus or religious institution to enforce immigration law — it’s against their policy.”

La Raza studies professor Agustin Palacios said that although CCC is a sanctuary campus, undocumented students are fearful that ICE will be standing outside the school to take them away.

“The fear is that their family will be deported and everything that they worked so hard for will be lost,” Dr. Palacios said. “They must show in every way they are responsible and good residents.”

If ICE were to ever come on campus, any attempt to acquire information about undocumented students would be meet with rejection.

Dean of Student Services Vicki Ferguson said this is because a student’s information is protected from federal request under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act. Although while on campus undocumented students have some protection, outside the sanctuary district there is uncertainty.

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Budget cuts hurt teams Coaches, players still fundraise to supply basic program needs not covered by college operations

BY Lorenzo Morotti ASSOCIATE EDITOR

lmorotti.theadvocate@gmail.com

Athletic departments at community colleges are faced with challenges that coaches and students who are, or have been, a part of these programs understand too well.

“In reality there is never enough money,” Contra Costa College Athletic Director John Wade said. “A definite budget is not the reality of athletics.”

Smaller colleges that are funded on an annual basis, based on student headcount by the Chancellor’s Office, face similar problems, Wade said.

“We have students joining our program and our coaches and staff want to support these students,” he said. “Yet we have to fundraise because the college doesn’t have enough to pay for operating expenses, let along trips to tournaments or conference games.”

Since the 1960s, CCC’s athletic department has a history of helping students bolster their academic drives during the first steps on their path to their career goals.

But when the college was faced with a 43 percent cut to its budget in 2003, it became a challenge to pay for basic needs when the athletic department’s operating budget was cut 37.5 percent.

The reduced operating budget, which pays for part-time coaches’ stipends, conference dues, and official’s fees and gas, forced coaches

and players to pay for expenses like uniforms, meal money, lodging, cleats or equipment out of their own pockets.

There are about 165 students who are enrolled in CCC’s eight athletic teams, according to the California Community College Athletic Association’s online rosters.

Student-athletes must have a full-time load of courses, 12 units, and maintain a 2.0 GPA to be eligible to play on a team.

Coaches and students, however, still have to fundraise for items no longer covered by the operating budget, 14 years after the 2003 budget cuts.

Merritt College Athletic Director Fred Brown said stringent budgets due to a recovering economy also hurt student-athletes in Oakland, who also have to cover these costs.

And for many students, being on a team isn’t a hobby — it’s a drive.

By pushing their physical limits, students are not just building muscle, but also relieving stress and learning to face challenges.

“I play football because I love it,” liberal arts major Amari Mount said as he served food at the annual Crab Feed fundraiser in the Gymnasium on Saturday.

“I’ve been playing since I was 5 years old,” Mount said. “It’s all passion on the field — you can hit somebody and not get in trouble. But I can use that passion to get an education and future employment.”

$29 MILLION ALLOCATED FOR REMODEL Project enters design phase, construction set to start in early 2019

BY Robert Clinton

“With the renovations happening, I’m sure we will be satisfied with what is going on and I’m sure they will address everything that needs to be done.”

SPORTS EDITOR

Miguel Johnson,

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

men’s basketball coach

Following the successful opening of the re-designed Campus Center, the second phase of construction now shifts to the athletic department and its dilapidated postWWII era structures that are in desperate need of attention.

Last August, the College Council at Contra Costa College, unanimously approved a $29 million budget to revitalize the Gym Annex, Gymnasium and both locker rooms using Measure E funds.

Measure E is a $450 million bond measure that was passed by Contra Costa County voters in 2014.

Contra Costa College Community College District Facilities Planner Ray Pyle said CCC was allocated $95 million in total.

District Project Manager P.J. Roach said the CCC PE/Kinesiology Complex renovation has completed the programming phase and is about to move into the schematic design phase.

He also said the scope of the project will consist of a complete renovation of the Gym Annex, Gymnasium, and the Men’s and Women’s locker rooms.

“There will also be a small addition to the Gymnasium that will include a lobby, new restrooms, a concession stand and a new classroom,” Roach said. “All buildings will receive updated mechanical and electrical systems, new roofs and new finishes (paint, flooring, ceilings).”

According to Roach, the complete design process, including obtaining state approval of the design, is expected to last into late 2018. Construction will start in early 2019 and, at this time, is estimated to take 16 months to complete.

“With the renovations happening I’m sure we will be satisfied with what is going on and I’m sure they will address everything that needs to be done,” Comet men’s basketball coach Miguel Johnson said. “I’m looking forward to it. My main concern is where classes will be held for sports teams during construction.”

Johnson said some community locations may be relocation options, like the soccer field at nearby Helms Junior High School or at sister college Diablo Valley, in Pleasant Hill.

“It’s going to be the most difficult part of the whole process, but it will be well worth it,” he said.

Although many expected the facilities to be completely rebuilt, like the upper-portion of the campus, a complete reconstruction in the same area is seismically impossible.

Months of soil testing to gauge the stability of the earth beneath the athletic facilities yielded inconclusive results.

Soil inspection places a building site into one of three zones.

Green zones mean the area is clear of fault activity, while red areas show fault traces and are unsafe to build on.

Most of the lower portion of the CCC campus, which contains the GA Building, falls into the uncertain yellow zone.

In those areas, trench workers have not found fault activity in the soil, but they have yet to dig deep enough to discover pre-holocene soil (soil that is 11,700 years old).

It was imperative that soil inspection find pre-holocene soil, which would have signaled an acceptable amount of seismic activity, allowing new construction.

CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

The Gymnasium is one of the buildings included in the scope of the PE/Kinesiology Complex Renovation Project, planned to start in 2019.

The Hayward Fault bisects the campus and runs very close to the soon-to-be construction zone.

Many in the athletic department are just happy the 16-month renovation plans are moving in a positive direction after accepting the reality that facilities will not be re-built, just refurbished.

CCC swim instructor Jim Ulversoy says athletic department staff have been present during discussions and have been able to make suggestions as to what changes will have the most positive effect for students.

“I’ve been able to voice my opinion in meetings and I have had input. I don’t know how much it counts,” Ulversoy said.

“Hopefully we will have room for lifeguards, a bigger staff room, an improved pool office and an equipment storage room.”

Ulversoy said another issue is deciding if Measure A funding will be used to resurface the pool deck and tennis courts. However, he

said that decision will have to be made at the district level.

The feeling that it has been too long since buildings in the athletic department have received the attention they deserve is unanimous.

Information on energy.gov, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, says renovation, retrofit and refurbishment of existing buildings represents an opportunity to upgrade the energy performance of commercial building assets.

With the district renovation plan entering the design phase, and most of the structural problems getting addressed, the only thing left up for debate is which area of the department will receive attention first.

“Anywhere is a good place to start, and for what we’re getting things seem to be moving in the right direction,” Athletic Director John Wade said. “I don’t have any preference where the work begins — just that we start.”

Damage caused by use, adjacent Hayward Fault; at a glance Cracks and divots in the concrete on the Tennis Courts plague the playing area. Some of the cracks have weeds and grass growing out of them that can interfere with the ball and create a tripping hazard.

The concrete on the Pool deck area has been neglected to the point where it poses a serious safety risk. The cracks run the full length of the Pool and some run to the pool’s edge.

A dilapidated bench in the Women’s Locker Room shower is caked in rust and calcium deposits from the water. The tile on a few of the shower walls is discolored and peeling, showing the green boards underneath.

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Fundraiser unites family, friends Annual Crab Feed generates much-needed resources, relationships

BY Dylan Collier ASSISTANT SCENE EDITOR

dcollier.theadvocate@gmail.com

The annual Crab Feed was held in the Gymnasium on Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m., with student-athletes and coaches volunteering their time for the fundraising event.

People from all walks of life packed into the gym to enjoy good food and good conversation, while soft jazz slowly seeped through the speakers.

People filed in at 6 p.m., well before the posted 7 p.m. serving time, to get seats and chat with friends, family members and other guests.

Last year, the athletic department did not hold the much-anticipated community event, which heightened excitement for the steaming crustaceans.

The crowd was made up of coaches, school administrators, alumni, friends, students and athletes.

Retired government worker Howard Rew and his family came prepared with extra equipment on their table, such as a gas burner and pot to heat food.

“We bought this equipment years ago, and we bring it every year. The Crab Feed is the reason why we bought it all,” Rew said.

Rew said for the last Crab Feed, he brought a party of 12 people, but this year it was just he, his wife, his son and daughter, and a friend.

He said that he particularly enjoys the concept of it all. Even if he doesn’t eat any crab, it’s still fun for him because he’s supporting the cause.

“It’s all about meeting people, having fun, and helping the department raise money. It’s a family outing, and we’ve been coming for the last six or seven years,” Rew said.

Rew grew up in the area, and had a few relatives who went to Contra Costa College.

“A friend of mine works here, so it’s all interwoven, and comes around full circle,” he said.

The tables were set up with bibs, and people helped themselves to the pasta and salad that was being served along with the crab.

Retired court reporter for City Courts of San Francisco, Kent Gubbine, said he was glad he could support the CCC athletic department, and heard about the event through his daughter, softball coach Karolyn Gubbine.

“I like that it’s not overly crowded. It’s just a really nice evening,” Kent Gubbine said.

At 8:30 p.m. there was a raffle for two gift baskets, mainly comprised of baseball

CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

Liberal arts major Troy Hearne fills West Contra Costa Unified School District sixth grade teacher Verdell Simon-Tatum’s plate during the annual all you can eat Crab Feed event in the Gymnasium on Saturday. The fundraiser encourages attendees to feast on crabs, pasta and bread.

“You can’t really put a number on the amount of money you expect to make. You just set a goal for a certain amount of ticket sales and then try to meet that.”

— James Barnes, Comet defensive coordinator

memorabilia.

The tickets were $40 per person, and in addition to the check-in table at the front door, there was a separate table to purchase tickets for drinks, then the food table where guests dished up their pasta and salad, and finally the area with all the crab.

People didn’t even have to get up out of their seat to get more crab, because the volunteers waited on tables and restocked them with more of the main course, whenever they were low on crab.

Many reasons brought people to the feeding frenzy.

For Joan Petersen, she heard about it through Athletic Director John Wade, who is a good friend of her son’s.

“I’ve been coming for approximately three or four years, because I enjoy getting out of the house and not having to cook is always nice,” Petersen said.

Football defensive coordinator James Barnes said that all the money raised goes to the athletic program, helping out with various expenses such as team transportation, the overall team budget, equipment, costs for the referees and umpires, and everyday game-day staff.

Men’s basketball coach Miguel Johnson cooked the crab on burners set up just outside of the Gym until nearly 9 p.m.

Right next to Johnson, Karolyn Gubbine worked the drink booth where they had bottled water, sodas and wine available for guests.

Johnson said, “Most everyone in the ath-

letic department chips in their time and hours to help out, and it really takes the whole department for it to be successful. I’ve been cooking crab for this event for about eight years.”

Johnson said they had approximately 400 pounds of crab, so his hands were full with the task of cooking for most of the evening.

Barnes said, “You can’t really put a number on the amount of money you expect to make, you just set a goal for a certain amount of ticket sales, and then try to meet that.”

The athletic department ended up selling a total of 140 tickets for the evening.

Aside from being a social event for all those involved or interested in the athletic department, the Crab Feed is also a chance for the department to show gratitude to its donors.

The event is designed not only to provide a good time for its attendees. It allows for the community to come together with the college staff and students.

Camp spotlights talent, athleticism Basketball prospects from around state highlight unique skills

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

More than 70 high school basketball prospects from up and down California came to the Gymnasium to showcase their talent at the NorCal Future basketball camp on Sunday.

Whether it was the high-flying dunks, killer crossovers or smooth jumpers, these high school students showed off their skills to the scouts, media and anyone else in attendance.

This camp brought in strong competition to Contra Costa College and gave young players a chance to compete against a higher level of competition.

Camp coach John Darwin said the players get a feel for high intensity basketball from the camp.

“They must get to know what intensity feels like to make it to the next level,” he said.

For six hours (excluding an hour for lunch) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the high school players trained in different practice routines designed to allow them to showcase their skill sets.

Kelvin “KP” Potts, head coach of the camp, used a combination of motivational speeches and competitive drills to help the players sharpen their skills and show them to those in attendance..

“This camp is teaching players the fundamentals, teamwork and how to showcase yourself,” Potts said.

Potts was able to get a high level of DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE Capital Christian High School (Sacramento) freshman Kendell Mullson drives past intensity out of the young players and mainan opponent during the NorCal Future basketball camp in the Gymnasium on tained that strong competition throughout the camp.

Sunday.

“It’s an environment where everyone wants to compete, so you really have to come out and show your talent.”

Trey Jones,

high school basketball player

Prospects developed their skills and were given an opportunity to get recognition from many different coaches and scouts throughout the day.

When asked what the main benefit players receive by participating, Pott’s answer was clear. “Exposure.”

Prospect Kairee Griffin, a relative of Golden State Warriors forward Matt Barnes, came from Sacramento to attend the camp.

His father, Kiko Griffin, said it gives him an opportunity to be around basketball talent from all over Northern California.

“It’s good for him to see that there’s more than just Sacramento,” Griffin said.

Contra Costa College men’s basketball coach Miguel Johnson helped supervise the event.

Johnson said as a coach, it helps put a face on the basketball program at CCC. There is an opportunity to network with players, parents, high school coaches and recruiters.

Johnson said, “When it comes time to recruit, down the road, I am a familiar face.”

Players were able to improve their allaround play through the skills and competition stations.

They also attended defense and teamwork seminars. Athletes were then able to put these skills to work in a competitive 5-on-5 tournament.

“It’s an environment where everyone wants to compete so you really have to come out and show your talent,” camp attendee Trey Jones said.

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CAMPUS COMMENT How was your last experience at Hilltop Mall?

“I had a good experience shopping for a summer dress and the chain for the necklace I am wearing.”

Carleen Fuller

health and human services CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

Few shoppers browse through the nearly empty Hilltop Mall on March 17. The number of shoppers at Hilltop Mall has steadily declined as storefronts become vacant despite Richmond Mayor Tom Butt’s projection of future economic infusion.

Shoppers hopeful for mall remodel

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

For years, rumors have swirled surrounding the prospect that one of the East Bay’s most iconic shopping centers, Hilltop Mall, may follow a growing national trend and lower the security gates on its fading retail establishments for good.

In an attempt to dispel the uncertainty Richmond Mayor Tom Butt, who lists commencing a strategy to ensure a productive future for Hilltop Mall as one of his accomplishments on Tombutt.com, spoke about the future of the property in his 2017 state of the city address.

In his presentation the mayor said major mixed-use development is still a goal for the site and that Macy’s (one of the mall’s original retailers) is still invested in Richmond’s future.

“Stores come and go all of the time and if the mall was closing I would know about it,” Sports Affair Manager Dawn Sepulveda said.

“I’ve been here for 18 years.”

Sports Affair is the last remaining nonchain store at the mall.

“We are fixtures here,” she said. “Everyone knows Marty (Katz the store’s owner) takes care of the business and I handle everything in the store.”

The holding company marketing the sale, C-III Realty Services does not currently have the property listed for sale on its website.

This month, anchor chain, JCPenney listed its Hilltop location as one of the 138 stores it will be closing in a bid toward financial restructuring.

Built in 1976, Hilltop, like many other

“As time went by and all of the stores went away, now they have nothing. When they rebuild they should try to make it something special like it was.”

— Marisela Avila, business management major

malls across America, served dual purposes for its community.

Aside from offering hundreds of jobs for expanding suburban communities, these malls also offered one stop shopping opportunities with expansive parking and entertainment opportunities.

The blue collar city once supported by the Ford Motor Company, wartime shipyards and Standard Oil now Chevron, continued to increase its post-WWII era population giving the original land developer and Bay Area mall builder A. Alfred Taubman an idea.

On land that initially served as an oil tanker field for then Standard Oil, the developer constructed the 1.1 million sq. ft. shopping center anchored by Richmond department store staples Macy’s, JCPenney and Capwell’s.

The new site was just 4.2 miles from Macy’s downtown location on the corner of Macdonald Avenue and Harbor Way. Hilltop’s opening was rife with community excitement, from its movie theaters and ice skating rink, to its spiral walkway overlooking its then fully operational fountain.

As downtown Richmond’s retail opportunities diminished, Hilltop thrived. With nearly 150 shops like KB Toys, Radio Shack and retail giants like original tenant

History of Hilltop Mall

Capwell’s closes its doors

Hilltop Mall opens

Following its momentous opening, Hilltop Mall cements itself as the economy and the community continue to grow. Retail giant Macy’s acquires neighboring store Capwell’s which leaves a 150,000 sq. ft. void in marketable space that would remain for 11 years. Macy’s leaves its space and moves in to the space once occupied by Capwell’s. Residents believe it is the beginning of the mall’s decline.

A. Alfred Taubman purchases land used for oil storage tanks just 4.2 miles north of the bustling Richmond downtown area. The two largest department stores in the area, Macy’s and JCPenney, both move to the Hilltop Mall location. Capwell’s also occupies space in the 1.1 million sq. ft. retail establishment with over 100 stores. The Mall features a movie theater, restaurants and an ice skating rink.

1990s

After its founding in 1962 and slow paced domination of the American retail landscape, Wal-Mart finally makes its way into Richmond. Wal-Mart is the worlds largest company by revenue and its one-stopshopping motto nearly spells doom for all of the smaller stores in the mall. By blocking the upstairs entrance to the store it aesthetically blemishes what’s left of the fading memory of what Hilltop Mall used to be.

microbiology

“I don’t remember the last time I went there.”

Claudia Campos public health

“The last time I went was to get some Surf City.”

Sana Khan nursing

REGGIE SANTINI AND DENIS PEREZ/THE ADVOCATE

Movie theater closes The theater at Hilltop Mall, originally a four-screen theater owned by Pitt, is then bought by Cineplex Odeon and closed in 1997. Before the movie theater closes, the cinema becomes an eight-screen mix of blockbuster films shown upstairs and shows for $1 on the mall’s lower level. The lasting impression many area residents remember is the sign for the defunct theater that stood for over 20 years after it closed.

2000s

2007

Wal-Mart moves in

Kevin Rivera

1997

1996

1976

1970s

Capwell’s, area residents could have all of their needs met under one roof.

Capwell’s left the mall in 1996 after merging with Macy’s, a moment many in the community point to as the beginning of the mall’s decline.

Today, the once spouting fountain is just a placid pool, the ice rink disappeared in the late 80s and the last movie was shown at the location in 1997.

As Macy’s moved into the old Capwell’s building, the department store sized vacancy gave the mall the realistic feel of being a shell of its former self.

That 150,00 sq. ft. of commercial space would remain empty for 11 years until retail giant Wal-Mart joined the collection of stores in 2006.

“I think that it’s time to re-make the mall altogether,” Richmond resident and culinary arts major Erika Marks said. “I heard they were planning to develop it like Emeryville’s Bay Street so if it was something like that it would be good for our community.”

The disappearance of the American mall may be imminent as more anchor chain stores close signature locations across the country. Still the memory of what that first mall experience was like will be a tangible experience that is easy to return to.

“When I came here from El Salvador in 2004 and saw Hilltop I thought wow, I had never seen something like this and they had so many good things,” business management major Marisela Avila said.

“As time went by and all the stores went away, now they have nothing. When they rebuild it they should try to make it something special like it was.”

“It was depressing and poor.

I pray that the city comes together and throws money at is so it thrives.”

2011

Mall sees controversy

2010s 2012

County assumes management

On Christmas Eve 2011, Hilltop Mall draws the eyes of local reporters when shots are fired after shops run out of vintage Air Jordans. Large crowds become unruly at Bay Area malls, including Westfield Solano Mall in Fairfield and at the Bayfair Mall in San Leandro. The incident reignites fears that Richmond is returning to its status as 12th on the U.S. most dangerous cities list. area.

Contra Costa County Superior Court assumes management of the property at Hilltop due to the Simon Property Groups loan default. The property is foreclosed in June 2013 by U.S. Bank which oversaw the original purchase of the property in 2007. Currently, 24-Hour Fitness occupies the 37,000 sq. ft. space. It is the first full service gym to service the Hilltop