The Advocate 9-30

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

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WEDNESDAY l 9.30.15 OUR 66TH YEAR CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE SAN PABLO, CALIF.

Bookstore Bus Transfer Center

Surveillance spots: There are several locations around campus where cameras are displayed but do not have any signage attached to them. These locations include the Bus Transfer Center, Library, Student Services Center, Bookstore, Early Learning Center, Applied Arts Building, Buildings and Grounds, and the Computer Technology Center.

Legend

Red: Areas where surveillance cameras are located.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE

POLICY VIOLATIONS BRING CAMERAS INTO FOCUS District fails to notify students without signage

BY Christian Urrutia EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

currutia.theadvocate@gmail.com

SEE CAMERAS, PAGE 3

Lynch visits Richmond, gives community hope Attorney General’s national tour aims to restore relations

FOOTBALL TEAM CONTINUES STREAK

police, community

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

currutia.theadvocate@gmail.com

R

ICHMOND — U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch visited the Civic Center Plaza on Friday to meet with community and school leaders, the Richmond Police Department and other Contra Costa County officials as part of national tour focusing on improving community policing relations.

Lynch met with officers from Richmond PD, female law enforcement chiefs and local youth to hold a closed session round-table discussion with representatives from communi-

ty organizations and schools to address problems and concerns facing their town.

Her nationwide tour consists of six cities: Cincinnati, Ohio; Birmingham, Alabama; Seattle, Washington; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and East Haven, Connecticut. She said traveling to these cities is geared toward highlighting positive police practices and restoring trust between communities and police officers.

“I’ve been looking at many issues facing us,” Lynch said.

“And I think, frankly, none are more important than police and community relations in this day SEE LYNCH, PAGE 3

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between

BY Christian Urrutia

PHOTOS BY CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE

TOP: (Left) U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California Brian Stretch and U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch listen to commumity members during her visit on Friday at the Civic Center Auditorium.

ABOVE: Juile Perez, mother of Richard “Pedie” Perez stands in protest over the unlawful death of her son during the U.S. Attorney General’s visit on Friday.

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The districtwide policy and procedure for security camera operations is months closer to being enacted, despite potential liability issues for current video monitoring throughout Contra Costa College due to the lack of proper signage for cameras displayed.

Drafted reports of the policy and procedure were disclosed during the Sept. 1 District Governance Council meeting and will be sent forward for final review by various employee groups such as faculty management and classified staff before being submitted to the Chancellor’s Cabinet and the Governing Board, district Chief Facilities Planner Ray Pyle said.

Currently, many of the cameras at CCC are ignoring the requirement that signs be posted notifying people that they are being recorded.

Early childhood education Bianca Miranda said, “I think the school should be allowed to have cameras anywhere and they shouldn’t have to tell people that they’re there.”

A research report conducted by the National Institute of Justice for the U.S. Department of Justice cites, “Signage

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Quotable “I make an earnest plea to my profession to seek ways of reporting the positive. In a sense I guess I am only saying that we should tell it like it is, and it is often better than we say it is” Howard K. Smith commentator, ABC News 1971 Christian Urrutia editor-in-chief Roxana Amparo Lorenzo Morotti associate editors Robert Clinton sports editor Mike Thomas scene editor Jose Jimenez spotlight editor Cody Casares photo editor Marci Suela editorial cartoonist Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Asma Alkrizy Benjamin Bassham Brian Boyle Joseph Bennett Keno Greene Xavier Johnson Magali Mercado Jason Sykes Mark Wassberg Larry Wickett Staff photographers Jordan Khoo Denis Perez Staff designers Jared Amdahl Honors ACP National Newspaper Pacemaker Award 1990, 1994, 1997,1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2011 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 Associated Collegiate Press California Newspaper Publishers Association Journalism Association of Community Colleges How to reach us Phone: 510.215.3852 Fax: 510.235.NEWS Email: accent.advocate@ gmail.com Editorial policy Columns and editorial cartoons are the opinion of individual writers and artists and not that of The Advocate. Editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board, which is made up of student editors.

opinion

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 30, 2015 VOL. 103, NO. 4

WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM

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EDITORIAL INITIATIVE LIKELY TO FAIL Past performance shapes idea of future success rate of plan

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he Associated Students Union is preparing to launch its Grant for Support program for the third time.

If history tells us anything, it is that the Grant for Support program is likely to be a failure.

The $5 student activity fee collected from every student at the beginning of each semester is funding the Grant for Support program.

Former ASU president Antone Agnitsch, who served for the 2014-15 year, said the program was abused by faculty members in order to fund their extra credit projects when he decided to cancel the program.

Under former ASU president Ysrael Condori, who served for the 2013-14 year, the ASU managed to create a $20,000 debt when it failed to turn in the proper paperwork necessary to even make its payments.

When the ASU accrued its $20,000 debt with the college, Business Services Supervisor Nick Dimitri said in the Oct. 1, 2014 issue of The Advocate, “I talked to Student Life and I talked to Dean (of Student Services Vicki) Ferguson, but it (ASU payment information) never came.”

The Grant for Support program has a history of being bogged down by a lack of training of the ASU, or even worse, a disconnect between the ASU Board and student needs.

This semester, the ASU plans to utilize $25,000 of the student money to fund its Grant for Support program. The ASU also plans to hold a workshop to educate itself on proper meeting procedure, but this means it is launching a program which is costing students $25,000 without proper training.

The ASU also has a history of having pathetically low student attendance at its meetings. With little communication between the board and the student body, it is arrogant to believe it could be representing student interests.

While the ASU is attempting to rectify the problems it have faced in the past, such as attempting to use social media to advertise, and limiting the amount people can receive with the grant, the Grant for Support is still likely to be a massive headache and another failure.

The combined storm of student apathy, lack of training and a history of improper oversight should signal to the student body that the student activity fee and the Grant for Support program are unfounded.

The Grant for Support has had some positive outcomes in the past. It was used to host an African drumming event during February 2014, it was used to rent buses for the football team and was even used to feed the homeless.

But despite the few instances where the student activity fee and the Grant for Support have been a benefit to students, it has had little effect in helping the majority of students on campus. Every semester the fee is collected, and brings very little to the students who fund the ASU with it.

The Advocate has taken the stance before that the student activity fee is a disservice to the student body at Contra Costa College, and if the ASU wished to show true leadership, it would take steps to abolish the $5 student activity fee.

MARCI SUELA / THE ADVOCATE

■ INJUSTICE

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Unjust ruling leaves young life in limbo

he law must submit to the demands of justice. To reverse that is wrong. What made me start thinking about this was the arrest of 18-yearold Texan Justin Carter on Feb. 14, 2013 for “terroristic threats.” It is an absurd case that is dragging on.

He made this sarcastic reply to an On my insult on Facebook.

“I’m fucked behalf, in the head society has alright. I think I’ma hurt an shoot up a kindergarten innocent, and watch the blood of who is the innocent being punrain down and eat the ished for beating heart of one something of them,” followed by that was “LOL” and “J/K.” not a crime.

Some lackwit saw this over the top comment, ignored all sense and alerted the authorities. The authorities took the case to a judge. The judge issued a warrant for his arrest and so on.

It is almost unbelievable that every time this judiciary bowel movement passed through someone’s brain it failed to trigger a single neuron.

The judge set the bond for Carter’s release at a ludicrous $500,000 and if convicted he faces up to ten years in prison. The conditions of his bail leave him under house arrest,

not justice.

A criminal is still human and worthy of protection, no matter the crime. There are two things that make the abuse of our fellow humans ethically tolerable.

First, is preventing the banned from using the criminals in question from Internet and forbidden to committing future crimes. live with anyone under 18 This can occur by physyears of age. ically preventing crime Without being convicted through imprisonment, by of anything, or even being making them afraid of retcharged with a credible ribution or by killing them. crime, his life has been Second, is by making an shattered. How did the law example of them so that go so wrong? Let’s take this others will be deterred back to basics. from crime.

Dictionary definitions If this seems harsh, that’s are not much use here. because it is. Justice is a Languages take shape from fearsome thing and that is their use. The literal mean- why it has to be so carefuling of justice is “the admin- ly controlled, which brings istration of the law.” me to my last point.

This definition is wrong.

Whenever an injustice is A law is not justified simcommitted by your society ply because it is the law. you, yes you, personally The inhuman crimes of get a portion of the blame. authoritarian regimes are That is why cases like often legal. Administering Justin Carter’s are so offenthe law does not equate to sive to me. When a cop justice. It must be the law shoots an innocent it is bad that conforms to the ideals enough, but that’s just a of justice, not the other moment’s stupidity. This is way around. premeditated stupidity.

My first and only On my behalf, sociassumption here is that ety has hurt an innocent, suffering is bad and should who is being punished for be minimized. something that was not Criminal justice is a crime. The injustice of therefore an odd thing. We it stings and burns and I have tasked a portion of hate it, especially as there our society with causing is little I can do about it. us suffering hoping that Adding my name to a petiit will save us from future tion does not absolve me of suffering. my share of the blame.

Does hurting the criminal help those who have Benjamin Bassham is a been harmed? Is it because staff writer of The Advocate. they enjoy seeing their Contact him at bbassham. enemy in pain? Revenge is theadvocate@gmail.com.

benjaminbassham

CAMPUS COMMENT

Does your professor’s enthusiasm have an impact on your learning experience?

“Yes, when they come with no zeal what’s the point of being there. If they do not care we will not care.

“No, if I am passionate about the subject then it should not matter.”

Ivan Herrera

Anareli Bedolla

business

undecided

“Yes. I like to be engaged in my classes. When the professors are enthusiastic, you grasp the context quicker.”

Eric Martin health science

XAVIER JOHNSON AND DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE

“Yes. I want my professors to at least make it seem like they take it seriously and are passionate.”

“Yes. The energy goes to the students. When they are engaging you connect with the content more. ”

Shakirah Higgs

Jeremy Buban

criminal justice

engineering

“No, most professors I have had are not enthusiastic. It is not an issue.”

Diana Aguilar undecided

campusbeat Follow The Advocate

3

Bus stop brawl breeds worry

BY Christian Urrutia EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

currutia.theadvocate@gmail.com

Receive breaking campus news and sports updates by following The Advocate on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can find a digital copy of this paper on Issuu. twitter.com/accentadvocate facebook.com/accentadvocate instagram.com/cccadvocate issuu.com/the_advocate

WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 9.30.2015 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE

A battery involving a minor and three involved parties occurred on Sept. 12 at the Bus Transfer Center and a video of the incident was posted on Facebook immediately after.

The assault took place around 6 p.m. after one of the involved parties arrived at the Bus Transfer Center and became confrontational upon seeing the victim.

Police Services Corporal Tom Holt said the victim is a 17-year-old female who decided not to press charges or seek prosecution following the incident.

“Victim and involved party were both juvenile females and

another involved party started to videotape the fight once it began,” Holt said.

The involved party and other two members of the group are not considered a suspect or suspects due to the victim’s decision to not prosecute those involved or namely the assaulter, Holt said.

The victim sustained minor injuries including a swelled-up small bump on her forehead and soreness to a couple of her fingers, according to officer Charles Hankins who filed the incident report.

“She didn’t want any medical attention, just to see about taking the video down from Facebook,” Hankins said.

Holt said the victim arrived at the Bus Transfer Center and was sitting down with another female at

a station bench when the assailant prompted her to an altercation.

According to Holt, the assailant said discriminatory remarks regarding race out loud and proceeded to argue with the victim before striking her. He said the victim took the comment as directed toward her since they were close in proximity.

The assailant was gesturing at the victim before having her hands pushed away from the victim’s face which, in turn, she pulled the victim’s hair.

“She then started to punch her (head) and the bus driver yelled something toward the fight and all three individuals ran down Mission Bell Drive,” Holt said.

Gateway to College Manager Karl Debro confirmed the victim is a student of the program.

“But this (incident) falls under (West Contra Costa Unified School District) jurisdiction,” Debro said.

He refused to comment further on the matter citing privacy conduct regarding minors on school grounds.

Hankins and Holt both speculated that the involved group was from Richmond High but any further investigation is unlikely.

Hankins said the victim found out about the video after being shown a screenshot.

He said the incident is about minute in length and at the 30-second marker, it shows the gist of the fight.

Facebook’s data policy regarding legal requests states it may access, preserve or share your information in response to a legal request if it is required to do so by state law.

CAMERAS | Lack of signage violates state law View us online on your mobile device.

Newsline FILM SERIES

SCREENING AIMS TO RAISE AWARENESS The Library and the Disabled Students Programs and Services are sponsoring a film event on “Fixed: The Science/Fiction of Human Enhancement” as part of a disability awareness series in LLRC-107, tomorrow at 11:15 a.m. The documentary focuses on the drive to be “better than human” and the radical technological innovations that may take people to the next level.

CrimeWatch Thursday, Sept. 17: A student and a non-student had a verbal argument while on campus. No crime was committed while on campus. The non-student was asked to leave campus and the student was escorted to class.

Thursday, Sept. 17: A verbal argument occurred on campus. No crime was committed. The involved parties were gone upon Police Services arrival.

Monday, Sept. 21: An officer responded to a report of a hit and run property damage.

Monday, Sept. 21: An officer received a report regarding a student misconduct issue. The student and instructor was contacted.

Tuesday, Sept. 22: An officer conducted a pedestrian stop and it was determined the subject had a warrant for his arrest.

The subject was arrested afterward Wednesday, Sept. 23: A staff member reported his vehicle was vandalized from an unknown suspect while parked in Lot 8.

Correction In the Sept. 23 issue of The Advocate on page 2, in the editorial, “Carpooling Crisis,” 15 students can sign up for the program is incorrect.

There are only 11 spots available for students, not 15.

The Advocate regrets this error.

— 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.

Continued from Page 1 can be an important legal component in the use of video cameras in schools.”

District Board Policy 5037 states that in order to enhance security, deter crime, and protect property and the safety of members of the campus and public, CCCCD has determined that the use of video monitoring, recording or other visual digital recording equipment may prevent losses and aid in the law enforcement activities of district Police Services.

The Advocate reported on Oct. 22, 2014, that the district approved cameras to be placed at both entrances of the college and the exterior of the Early Learning Center.

Pyle said, “They would be placed in positions where cars would be photographed and at the vehicular entrances of the school and the exterior entrances at the Early Learning Center.”

There are an indefinite amount of cameras on campus, which contain no signage.

The locations, which have cameras setup, are— the Bus Transfer Center, Student Services Center, Buildings and Grounds,

LYNCH | Tours

Computer Technology Center, Applied Arts Building, the Bookstore, Early Learning Center and the Library, Police Services Corporal Tom Holt said.

Within the adoption of the new procedure all locations with security cameras will have signs displayed that provide reasonable notification of the presence of security cameras.

Further notification requirements state that at a minimum this must include primary building entrances. The placement of the signs and the text on the signs will be subject to the review and approval of the district police chief.

Another requirement would be that conspicuous public signage must be displayed at all camera locations or the entrance to a single facility, except at emergency or investigative locations.

Buildings and Grounds Manager Bruce King said, “None of the cameras have signage except for shipping and receiving within (buildings and grounds).”

Once approved, one installation and camera request procedure lists that individual departments, programs, or campus organizations installing video security equipment shall sub-

mit a written request to their appropriate dean or manager describing the proposed location of security devices, justifying the installation, and identifying the funding source or sources for purchase and ongoing maintenance.

Police Services monitors the three cameras at the Bus Transfer Center and the six at Student Services Center but are currently undergoing relay feed issues, disabling Police Services from viewing footage.

Technology Systems Manager James Eyestone said the DVR for those cameras needs some attention and is currently working on correcting the problem.

Eyestone said generally speaking cameras are placed at cash handling locations and the biggest problem with multiple cameras setup is that there is no centralized network in which data recorded from these devices could be reviewed.

“The real problem with these different systems is for Police Services because whatever system you have, you may need to relay to the district level in case of an event of a crime and each system has different interfaces,” Eyestone said.

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Continued from Page 1 and age.

“I’m really here to highlight the work that is being done in different communities around the country.”

Richmond Mayor Tom Butt said, “This is about community policing and public safety and at the end of the day, successful community policing is an important part of building trust in the community.”

Butt also said, “It’s every citizen out there in Richmond who has made (community policing) work and we’re proud to share the successes we’ve had with other people, but we solicit their successes with us for their advice and solicit all the help we can get — so thank you Attorney General (Lynch) for (coming to Richmond).”

Richmond Police Chief Chris Magnus said that the city has struggled with a lot of challenges including poverty and a lack of social and economic resources, but has persevered with “great amounts of pride and determination and a willingness to try new things — the people around this room are a testament to that fact.”

Magnus added that building trust is an ongoing process and it is not simply a destination one arrives at.

“Relationships take many years to form and they are fragile,” he said. “And that trust that sustains them can be easily, easily broken.”

He also said how hard it is to maintain energy and focus when people are dealing with everyday challenges in Richmond.

Lynch said, “What I’ve seen across the country is when all these (community) groups come together and decide to break down their barriers and create a new direction to change not only what’s possible but (also) what happens.”

She said that the reflection of community policing that people may have an idea of often comes down to what is being caught on tape, but those incidents reflect years and generations of negative interaction and mistrust that come together in “flash-point situations” and turn into conflagrations.

She added this happens when there is no way of, or mechanism, for the people involved to handle cases and the subsequent emotions and the history that go into so various (conflicting) situations.

Protesters against police brutality, organized

by The Oscar Grant Committee Against Police Brutality and State Repression and the family of Richard “Pedie” Perez, who was unarmed when Richmond Police Officer Wallace Jensen shot and killed him during an arrest on Sept. 14, 2014, rallied outside City Hall.

The family has filed a federal lawsuit and an appeal last year following Perez’s death, but was immediately dismissed by Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office.

His father, Rick Perez, was quoted in the press packet released by the committee as saying, “I just want flat out justice, if the facts are that the cop did what I think he did, well we don’t need cops like that.”

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WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 9.30.2015 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE

Grant is back for clubs, organizations $5 student

BY Lorenzo Morotti

activity fee

lmorotti.theadvocate@gmail.com

funds Grant for Support, offers up to $2,500

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Associated Student Union will be reviewing Grant for Support applications starting Friday until Oct. 16 for the first time since the 2013 spring semester.

Contra Costa College programs, departments and clubs will be able to apply for additional funding of up to $2,500 for campus events or purchases that will benefit a large percentage of students.

“The deadline to submit applications for review is by (noon) on Oct. 16,” ASU Director of Training and Recruitment Luanna Waters said.

Student Life Coordinator Ericka Greene said the ASU Board will only be approving 10 applications for the fall semester.

As of press time Tuesday, there are seven members in the ASU. All, but one, hold executive positions.

Waters said upon submitting the

application at the Student Life and ASU Offices in AA-109, it will take about two weeks to process through the Finance Committee and bring it up for ASU Board discussion.

“Any Grant for Support application that is approved must be done to benefit students,” Greene said to the ASU Board during its meeting on Sept. 9.

“And it better be — the money is coming from the students.”

The $5 student activity fee that is charged to students at the beginning of every semester funds the Grant for Support.

ASU Treasurer, and Internal Finance Committee Chairperson Jun Chen said the total budget of the Grant for Support for the fall 2015 semester has been set at $25,000.

ASU Vice President of Club Affairs and Inter-Club Council President Safi Ward-Davis said this budget is $10,000 less than what was offered the last time the ASU had the Grant for Support operational.

“The ASU will only review reasonable requests, and even then we may approve or deny — but we will make sure the process is clear on both ends.”

—

, ASU vice president

Ward-Davis said because of where the monies are being funneled from, applying for a Grant for Support should be a program’s “last option” after fundraising and using institutional funds.

She said, “Last year (the Grant for Support) was not open because former (ASU) president Antone (Agnitsch) wanted to re-word the applications because only certain departments were utilizing the funds, and the rest were unclear with the process.”

“The ASU will only review reasonable requests, and even then we may approve or deny — but we will make

sure the process is clear on both ends.”

Ward-Davis said, “We need everyone to realize that this is student activity fee money.”

“It’s what students pay the $5 for, so we have to be fiscally responsible with our decisions and make sure they benefit as many students as possible.”

Greene agrees with Ward-Davis when she said, “If you ask for $2,500 it doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed to get that much. Any applicant has to bring proof that the ASU is not the first place they came to ask for more funding.”

Chen said she met with Business Office’s Senior Accountant Clerk Jacqueline Lopez to ensure that the revisions to the Grant for Support Application are in compliance with the Finance Code on Sept. 18, which was the third read according to ASU’s minutes.

The ASU meets weekly on Thursdays in LA-204 at 2:15 p.m.

PICK UP OPTION FILLS SERVICE VOID AT LUNCH

BY Magali Mercado STAFF WRITER

mmercado.theadvocate@gmail.com

CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE

Student trustee finds strength in past, optimism for future ABOVE: Contra Costa Community College Student Trustee Gary Walker is committed to making sure students feel properly represented. Walker attends Los Medanos College.

BY Jose Jimenez SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

jjimenez.theadvocate@gmail.com

He is your Contra Costa Community College District (CCCCD) student trustee and his job is to represent the voices of student organizations on various topics to the Governing Board.

Gary Simeon Walker said he is “humbled” to represent all district students this year as the district student trustee.

When he lost his mother, Vicki Walker, when he was 5 years old to cancer, he lost a special connection but still keeps the spirit of her living through him each and every day.

Walker earned two associate degrees at Los Medanos College — one in behavior and social sciences and the other in arts and humanities.

Currently, he is taking his last course to earn a certificate in Spanish because he feels that being able to speak, read and write in Spanish is necessary to remain competitive in the job market today.

“I grew up in a small town in upstate New York and I remem-

ber ‘coming out of the closet’ my junior year of high school in 1994.

That was when I felt most comfortable to present myself to the world as my true being.”

Walker said he is an advocate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) group — QIA (Queer, Intersex and Asexual) and supports their goals.

But he said his number one priority this academic year is to make sure all Contra Costa College students feel properly represented.

“I will chair the Student Trustee Advisory Council meeting once a month at the District Office which will give the student presidents of the Associated Student Unions (districtwide) an opportunity to inform me on how every respected college student voice feels about topics on the Governing Board agenda.”

In fact, CCC Senior Executive Assistant Michael Peterson said Walker will be an advocate for all students on campus to have their “voices heard.”

“I see him having a positive engagement with the entire board and I absolutely agree with his

future decisions as student trustee,” Peterson said.

The process to become the student trustee is the same year after year, Walker said.

He said the only change that would be different is that the position at the helm rotates between the three colleges in the district.

Last year’s trustee was from DVC, Ivan De Los Santos, and Walker said being enrolled at LMC helped in his election even though he ran uncontested.

“I believe Gary is an excellent student trustee and will be a great representative for our CCC students and throughout the district,” CCC Interim President Mojdeh Mehdizadeh said.

Walker said he wants to empower all students that belong to an underrepresented minority population to discover their confidence to speak out about their experiences, both good and bad, at their respective colleges.

“We all have a unique story which shapes our narratives and they all deserve a voice at the head of the table and I will work hard for the students to ensure they are all heard on the district level.”

The Three Seasons Restaurant now has an online pick up ordering service for all faculty and staff members at Contra Costa College.

“We are trying (online ordering service) this semester as a pilot to see if the pick up option works and how all this works out for us,” culinary arts department Chairperson Nader Sharkes said.

Culinary arts instructional assistant Wing “(A delivery Man Chau said faculty and staff who log into system) would be their insight portal and great. It’s about go under department options there is a CCC saving time and culinary arts section. many people would Here, Chau said, there is a menu and the pick up go for that since order form. it’s difficult to get She said along with a consistent menu, there around campus.” will be an additional — Lorena Cortez, senior menu that will list out administrative assistant specialty plates that vary from month to month.

She said orders will be sent to Sharkes or Chau and then to the kitchen, followed by a confirmation email to the person that made the order.

The online order and pick up system is an option for faculty members that are constantly busy and have short breaks. They can’t always come eat or have much time to wait around, with this they just pick it up, Chau said.

Senior Administrative Assistant Lorena Cortez said, “It definitely has a convenience factor, which is what we are all about now.”

Sharkes said so far the service was introduced to faculty only, but the possibility for students to use it is open.

“We are still working out the logistics of (online ordering and pick up service),” he said.

As for the culinary department implementing a delivery service system, it seems that could be an option but nothing has been worked out yet.

“If things go well then next semester it could be a possibility to deliver, but as of now we are low on hands, there are about 80 students in the culinary program it’s not enough for a delivery service.”

Cortez said whether the delivery service happens or not, the interest is there. “(A delivery system) would be great. It’s about saving time and many people would go for that since it’s difficult to get around campus,” she said.

Sharkes said the culinary department’s new service is going well so far. “(Computer Network Technician) Evren (Gurson) is helping us develop (a phone app) and make this service possible,” he said. “(Gurson) works with the tech side of all this — I expect it will work better in future.”

INCENTIVE BASED PROGRAM OFFERS ALTERNATE COMMUTE

BY Benjamin Bassham STAFF WRITER

bbassham.theadvocate@gmail.com

The Guaranteed Ride Home program provides commuter insurance for those who walk, bicycle, carpool or take public transport either to work, or now also to Contra Costa College.

The idea of the program, a part of 511 services, is that if someone who does not have their own transportation has an unexpected need to return home they have options.

Building and Grounds manager Bruce King said, “(511) is a nice little partner to have in our back pocket.”

511 has previously donated to pay for bike racks around campus,

and supports Bike to School day.

The hope here is that the safety net the program provides will make students more willing to use alternate transportation, reducing traffic and pollution.

This service, which is free to commuters who travel for work or college to Contra Costa County, requires participants to be pre-registered in the program and can be used up to six times yearly to reimburse for emergency travel expenses using taxi, rental car, app-based, or carshare travel.

“It could be useful — tragedy’s happen,” student John Sanchez said.

The service is to be used for reimbursement if you or an imme-

“Not all the programs are necessarily user friendly, but it’s not a bad deal if you need that ride.”

— Bruce King, building and grounds manager

diate family member suffers a medical emergency, if you are required by to perform unscheduled overtime, your carpool vehicle breaks down, or leaves early, or if there has been a break-in, a fire, or flood at your residence.

“Free transportation in an emergency — that’s pretty cool,” said student Tenzin Jay. GRH is not for errands, appointments, business travel, voluntary

overtime, or ambulance service.

The two things blocking commuters from benefiting from the program are the fact that no one has heard of it and the somewhat unreasonable bureaucratic barrier to entry.

Students intending to use the service must be 18 or older and be enrolled for at least 12 units at CCC, must not hold a single occupant vehicle parking permit, and must use alternative transport to school at least three times per week.

“I don’t think I would use (it), but I don’t know what’s going to happen,” psychology major Cecilia Hurtado said.

Register, pay for your ride,

request reimbursement within seven days. Tips to the driver are not reimbursed. Price limits apply for type of transport, and by times used.

Participants must register once every three years.

“Not all the programs are necessarily user friendly, but it’s not a bad deal if you need that ride,” King said.

Everyone would benefit if the red tape were trimmed back, but in the mean time, if you have the patience to sign up, the program could save you the price of a taxi across town.

For additional details visit 511contracosta.org.

campus beat

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“Berkeley is obviously a very big campus, but for the 25 people who did donate blood at CCC we are extremely

thankful.” —

5

FURNITURE VENDORS VIE FOR SUPPORT

Hanna Malak, account manager for the American Red Cross

Campus Center project seeks input for desks, chairs

BY Brian Boyle STAFF WRITER

bboyle.theadvocate@gmail.com

CODY CASARES / THE ADVOCATE

Communications major Perla Juarez gets her blood drawn by an American Red Cross assistant in the Recreation Room during the Red Cross Blood Drive on Sept. 23.

Annual blood drive exceeds expectation

Red Cross visits campus, turnout rivals four-year universities

BY Jose Jimenez SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

jjimenez.theadvocate@gmail.com

The annual Blood Drive was held in collaboration with the American Red Cross on Sept. 23, inside AA-117.

The Recreation Room (AA117) was filled with gurneys, needles, soothing jazz music from a Red Cross team member’s mobile devices and Contra Costa College students willing to donate blood.

The Blood Drive was scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but after a two-hour delay due to technical difficulties with their medical equipment, students finally got their chance to give their blood.

Perla Juarez, a communications major in her third semester, said she decided to give blood because it could save a life.

“The very first time I (gave blood) was in high school,” Juarez said. “I was very scared but the American Red Cross people have a way of talking to people and calming us down — plus, it’s for a good cause.”

She admitted to having some experience when giving blood and she said that on a scale of one to 10, the overall pain was a two.

“The pinch might be a seven, but after that it is all OK,” she said.

Juarez said she made an appointment long ago in anticipation for the event, but the Red Cross was also accepting walk-ins from anyone who met its height, weight and medical history qualifications.

Heather Banuelos, a Middle

“The very first time I (gave blood) was in high school. I was scared but the American Red Cross people have a way of talking to people and calming us down — plus, it’s for a good cause. — Perla Juarez, communications major

College student, said she was walking by the Recreation Room to pick up her free lunch when she heard Red Cross staff members telling other students that they were accepting walk-ins, but they had to come back later after they finished with their scheduled appointments.

Banuelos decided to wait and said she changed her plans for the entire day because she understands the importance of giving blood.

“It’s easy and I think everyone on campus should do it, and would do it if they knew they could save a life,” she said.

Account Manager and Donor Representative for the American Red Cross in the Northern California Region Hanna Malak said they received at total of 25 units of blood by and plan another visit to CCC very soon.

Malak said the 25 units of blood represents a great turnout for the event on campus given that universities with higher enrollment and headcount, such as UC Berkeley,

do 200 units of blood every month.

“Berkeley is obviously a very big campus, but for the 25 people who did donate blood at CCC we are extremely thankful. We couldn’t have asked for anything more given the small space we had to operate in,” Malak said. “We definitely want to come back very soon and hopefully in a bigger venue.”

Malak said individuals who donated blood on Wednesday have to wait 56 days to give blood again.

A short wait, he said, but enough time to set up something bigger on the CCC campus in the near future.

Students who heard from it through “word of mouth” were thankful while others like Maritza Azamar, an English major, was lucky enough to see the Red Cross van parked in front of the AA Building as she was leaving campus.

“I’m doing it out of my free will,” Azamar said. “But the campus should have done more to promote this event because I suffer from social anxiety and couldn’t ask people where this blood drive was taking place.”

Juarez agreed and said she wished CCC made a bigger deal out of this event like they did with the dental cleaning event for which she said she received all types of notifications through her email.

“Maybe CCC should have put something on the Internet or on the school website,” she said.

The Blood Drive was sponsored

by CCC’s Office of Student Life.

College administrators hosted a demo for potential furniture to furnish the Campus Center and Classroom buildings being constructed on campus, on Monday in GA-40.

A committee of administration, faculty, staff and two student ambassadors viewed the demos from four different vendors, which showcased the furniture that will fill the new classrooms, staff and faculty offices and recreation areas in the new buildings.

Each vendor had 12 minutes to explain the benefits of their product line and then five minutes to answer questions.

Contra Costa Community College District senior buyer Ben Cayabyab urged the faculty present to choose durable equipment that would really work for them.

“In some demos I have jumped up and down on chairs,” Cayabyab said. “One vendor claimed I couldn’t break his chair, so I picked it up and smashed in on the ground.”

The four vendors each showcased their chairs and tables, and did their best to differentiate their products from their competitors.

“I told the vendors not to include price,” Cayabyab said. “I want the decision to be based on utility, comfort and reliability and not price.”

Steelcase was the first vendor, and spent the bulk of their presentation time demonstrating the utility of their Node Chair.

The Node Chair is a pod shaped desk and chair combo. It allows students to not only adjust what side of the desk they write on, but also allows them to swivel in a complete circle to listen to classmates or follow the professor as they walk around the room. The chair is also on wheels, allowing students to easily move the chair around to bunch up for group work or to circle around the room for presentations. The chair also has a storage area beneath it large enough for a backpack.

Steelcase’s design is likely to be at Contra Costa College whether they are chosen as the vendor or not. Two of the other vendors presented chairs virtually identical to the Node Chair, and the faculty present were seemed very excited about the Node Chair.

Student ambassador Andrew Almacen said, “I hate that (Node Chair). It’s uncomfortable, the desk is small and it’s completely impractical.”

Student ambassador Almas Amjad agreed.

Amjad said that the actual size of the desk was extremely important to students. She said it was important to be able to fit a notebook and a book or binder on the desk at the same time, which seemed like an impractical use of the limited space the Node Chair — type desks provided.

English professor Jeffrey Michels said he particularly like the sturdiness of the Node Chair. He made this declaration shortly after up-ending the Node Chair-esque design presented by Allsteel.

Accessibility was also one of the major selling points for Steelcase’s Node Chair.

“I’m a big fellow, but I fit pretty easily in that chair,” Dr. Michels said. “Now, there are bigger fellows, but I think they’ll still fit.”

KI Furnishings presented the only desk and chair combo that was not designed like the Node Chair. The chair features a pyramidal base that could hold binders, notebooks and even included cup holders. Michels stood on one side of the desk with his whole weight and was unable to tip it.

KI also presented office equipment that excited fine and media arts professor Bonnie Holt. The KI faculty office storage solutions allows for one to access the above the desk storage whether they are seated or standing.

TRANSFER EVENT AIMS TO INFORM, RELIEVE STRESS

BY ASMA ALKRIZY STAFF WRITER

aalkrizy.theadvocate@gmail.com

The Transfer Day event at the Liberal Arts Building patio will provide students with information about scholarship opportunities, transfer requirements, college majors and other additional information that may interest students.

The annual event will be on Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Transfer Day is a “free for all” event, which opens the doors for Contra Costa College students to meet with visiting admission representatives from different fouryear colleges and universities and ask questions about their transfer plans.

In addition, Transfer Day offers a valuable chance for students who are indecisive about their major or unsure where they plan to transfer and to explore more career choices.

“We have outreach officers from different colleges and universities come to our campus to recruit students,” counselor Luci Castruita said. “And I’m not saying recruit as in military recruit, that’s another thing. I’m talking about encour-

“We have outreach officers from different colleges and universities come to our campus to recruit students.”

— Luci Castruita, counselor

aging students to apply. That’s the purpose of Transfer Day.” The event is also geared for students who are applying for fall 2016. As Transfer Student Application deadlines are getting near, students have the opportunity to ask representatives any questions about their application process.

Admission representatives assist students in their transferring plan struggles by steering them at the right path and rectifying errors students sometimes make before transfer deadlines.

By asking questions, taking notes and visiting other tables, students will learn more about other colleges and universities they may have not considered an option

before.

“I always encourage students who are unsure about what university they plan to transfer to attend Transfer Day,” Castruita said.

“Even if they’re sure, Transfer Day will introduce them to many other colleges and universities they may as well be interested in applying for.”

Welcome/Transfer Center coordinator and counselor Andrea Phillips organized the Transfer Day event, and will be contacting the representatives before they visit campus.

The coordinators give an overview about their programs and campus life.

“Our student ambassadors help spread the Transfer Day information through fliers,” she said. “I try to get students involved in this event because it’ll help them consider what steps to take in their academic career.”

“We’ll put up balloons and greet students coming to the event,” student ambassador Almas Amjad said.

“I encourage students to not be shy and ask as many questions.

FILE PHOTO / THE ADVOCATE

Brad Horton, a UC Davis counselor talks about transferring during the Transfer Day event in front of the LA Building on Oct. 7, 2014.

If you look at the bigger picture, Transfer Day promotes student success. It’ll give students a great insight about where they’ll be going in the future,” she said.

“As student ambassadors, one of our responsibilities is helping Andrea Phillips organize Transfer Day,” student ambassador and chemical engineering major Hiba Syed said. “We work behind the scenes. We’ll be hanging fliers to reach for more students. We’ll also

assist all the representatives that will be coming (to inform), and giving them refreshments when needed.”

The culinary arts department will serve continental breakfast for the representatives. However, the refreshments will be served before the actual event starts. “We’ll be serving fruits, juice, coffee, tea, and these kinds of refreshments,” culinary arts instructional assistant Wing Man Chau said.

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Senate shifts pace, leadership position Instructor still finds time to teach, represent faculty issues while adjusting to role

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

In keeping with the theme of change on campus this year, new Academic Senate President Beth Goehring takes her seat at the helm of the committee after being elected to follow two-term president Wayne Organ.

Goehring, kinesiology professor and longtime Academic Senate member, began her term May 1 and already has a to-do list planned. Some items suggested by her predecessor, Organ.

“I’ve inherited a few different issues,” Goehring said. “One of them is equivalency in terms of hiring.”

The president is tasked with writing the manual on the process of getting equivalency so instructors, departments and divisions will know how the process is supposed to be uniformly done.

As president, Organ wrote Contra Costa College’s Accreditation Report introduction and much of its contents.

Goehring also began exploring requests of including plus or minus

signs when grading from some of the district science instructors and weighing the benefits it may or may not have on students.

“She (Goehring) really has the ability to see things from the students’ point of view and how it affects the classroom,” Classified Senate President and Student Life Coordinator Erika Greene said. “I really enjoy working with her. She asks good questions and represents her constituency well in meetings.”

For the former CCC volleyball coach and athletic instructor, it has always been about the students.

But shouldering the workload that comes with the presidency offers little time for classroom instruction and is opposed to the reasons some began careers in teaching.

“The college president (Mojdeh Mehdizadeh) has been wonderful and allows me to keep my fingers in the food chain,” Goehring said. “She’s allowing me to teach some online classes so I can be available during the day to represent the faculty.”

“She’s (Goehring) definitely a fixture in our department. She is a wealth of knowledge and experience.”

— Miguel Johnson, kinesiology department co-chairperson

Kinesiology is one of the largest departments on campus with few full time instructors to teach courses.

“She’s (Goehring) definitely a fixture in our department. She is a wealth of knowledge and experience,” kinesiology co-chairperson Miguel Johnson said.

“Myself and Sandra Everhart can handle the day-to-day activities.”

For the in-person classes, part-time instructors were hired to cover the time Goehring taught actively and academically so there is not that much of a workload to shift.

Goehring used to dedicate equal time to her in-person and online classes. Now, the professor only teaches online but is in touch constantly and

believes in keeping students engaged no matter the medium.

In response to a question about a recent research project the professor woke up early to produce a 10-minute instructional video to show the student what was expected and then embed the video into the online course providing clarity for those who may face similar questions.

“She (Goehring) makes herself available to us all of the time,” kinesiology major and Black Student Union (BSU) President De Andre Russell said. “Even with her new responsibilities she is still thorough.”

Those snap reactionary methods of teaching will allow Goehring to remain in an instructional capacity while assuming the duties of president, which consist of a lot of meetings.

Academic Senate meetings are held, then concerns are brought back to constituencies and discussed in division meetings. Larger issues are discussed in the senate and then discussions points are handed down to divisions.

PRESTIGIOUS HONOR DEFINES WORK, LOYALTY

BY Jose Jimenez SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

jjimenez.theadvocate@gmail.com

California Community College Classified Employee of the Year Kelly Ramos was given the award by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors in Sacramento shortly after the 2015 spring semester.

Ramos was one of four individuals in California to win the award, but she will not succumb to fame in the spotlight.

“I was so used to coming to this campus as a child at a very young age that I really saw this place as my home,” she said.

Her college indeed because Ramos, 31, received the classified district employer award as CCC’s minority students retention specialist, solidifying her title as employee of the year.

Ramos said she essentially grew up on campus throughout her entire childhood and plans on giving her three children, Gracie, Joey and Ricky all the support they can handle just like she received from her dad, administration of justice department Chairperson Ramos Rick Ramos, who always brought her to CCC as a little girl.

And hopefully one day, she said she can enjoy watching her three children experience the same educational foundation she received when she graduated from CCC back in 2002.

Ramos said everything she learned at the college created the path that ultimately led to her attending Cal State-East Bay and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in human development.

The start of her journey to where she is now is driven through her passion for the educational system, and seeing young people strive for a better future.

“I never saw myself as the most popular,” Ramos said. “I don’t like to work in a silo, and I love to collaborate with people,” she said.

“For example, if I see someone struggling with their academics, or have an issue with something that I can help with, then I will help them to the best that I can. My leadership skills are more valuable when I can teach someone else my experiences so they can build on whatever they are working on and take it to the next level.”

She said her dedication stems from all the mentors she had the privilege to work with over the years such as Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) grants and METAS Program Manager Mayra Padilla, Dean of Student Services Vicki Ferguson and Financial Aid Assistant Patricia Herrera.

CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE

College conference provides information, pathway to success ABOVE: Cal StateChico student Dilan Pedraza gives firsthand advice to high school students about his pathway to college at the Getting Ready for College Conference at the Richmond Memorial Convention Center on Saturday.

BY Roxana Amparo ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ramparo.theadvocate@gmail.com

RICHMOND — The Getting Ready for College Conference informed parents and students through workshops, presentations and a panel of college students from campuses statewide on Saturday at the Richmond Memorial Convention Center.

“The conference serves to give students background information and what it is they need for the next step,” West Contra Costa Unified School District Superintendent Bruce Harter said.

During the conference, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., students and parents gathered in the auditorium.

Later, parents had the chance to attend either a Spanish or English informative workshop that provided them with answers regarding college. High school and middle school students sat through presentations about transferring

led by students who are already in college.

WCCUSD Board member Randall Enos said parents have to be part of the process.

“It is what makes the conference have a bigger impact on student success,” he said.

Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Richmond Billy Zeier said events like these are imperative to get students’ parents involved in their transition into higher education.

He said the annual event focuses on providing information for those parents who have students in the process of moving on to a university. Through the workshops they can get acquainted with what really goes on in college and how to get there.

Middle school and high school students received first-hand advice from college students from Chico State, Brown University, Contra Costa College and others at the

student-led panels.

Apart from the direct help from students already in college, one workshop was based on informing students on the different programs and extracurricular activities they can engage in to be a well-rounded freshman in college.

UC Berkeley Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) adviser Devan McFadden said what makes a student “well-rounded” is having different extra curricular activities such as participating in clubs, volunteering within the community or helping out at home.

Harter said some students have to work harder to succeed.

Ed-Fund College Access Coordinator Veli Waller said information about how to transfer to college needs to be shared in order for students to thrive, but first generation college students often don’t have access to valuable resources.

ACCOUNT CLERK EARNS AWARD FOR EXCEPTIONAL WORK Accolade given annually highlights assistance, guidance

BY Cody Casares PHOTO EDITOR

ccasares.theadvocate@gmail.com

This year, the Frank Hernandez Service Award has been given to Contra Costa College’s Senior Account Clerk Jacqueline Lopez from the business services department.

The award is given annually to the faculty or staff member who helped the students succeed with their goals.

“Students constantly see the staff around the college, but do not see what the staff does for the college as a whole in the background. This award brings some recognition for their hard work,” Student Life Coordinator Erika Greene said.

Associated Student Union Board members determine the recipient of the award and announce the winner at All College Day each August.

“It’s not about who is your favorite.

There needs to be examples of going above and beyond,” Greene said.

Senior Administrative Secretary Maritza Guerrero said Lopez has shown examples of why she is deserving. When the biology department needed a new fridge to store perishables, Lopez made it her job to find the best choice and talked to an array of vendors.

In the end, the biology department spent much less than originally anticipated, Guerrero said.

Lopez also helped the ASU tighten up on its finance procedures, allowing it to get things done in a timely manner making sure that everyone was on the same page, Greene said.

“I had no idea I was going to get the award,” Lopez said.

When ASU President Nakari Syon was on stage at All College Day announcing the winner, he began listing off jobs that seemed similar to the ones she had done for the ASU. “I still thought it was someone else,” she said.

“I was very happy that she won. She is an extremely helpful, dedicated and

approachable person,” Guerrero said.

“I hear nothing but compliments from people who go to see her.”

Lopez is no stranger to going above and beyond in the workplace. Prior to her days working as senior account clerk at CCC she moved to Southern California where she worked as a cashier at one of MiraCosta College’s three bookstores, she said.

She was promoted to supervisor when the existing supervisor was out on maternity leave.

During her time at the college bookstore she created new protocol for the shipping and receiving of everything as well as maximized the space available in the small store.

Lopez has contributed to CCC prior to her position as business department senior account clerk as well.

Moving from Southern California, Lopez returned to the East Bay where she started work at Admissions and Records on campus, she said. She

worked there for two years. “I wanted to quit,” Lopez said, “I was working two jobs: three days at Admissions and Records and three days at AAA.” While working in Admissions and Records, Lopez applied for the human resources position in the business department and although she failed to meet the qualifications to get the job she made an impression.

Lopez was hired as senior account clerk after a conversation with Business Services Supervisor Nick Dimitri during her lunch break, Lopez said.

Dimitri became aware of Lopez’s potential through her application the previous year for the human resources position.

“He told me that the senior account clerk was leaving and that I had a week to train. I was super excited and I took it. I rapidly put in my application for it,” Lopez said. “It’s a great spot for me.”

“It’s a tough job, but she handles it with style and class,” Dimitri said.

sports FOOTBALL TEAM SEALS ROAD WIN AT MERCED

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I still had hope when we were down 2-1, but once (LTCC) put in the third goal with only three minutes left to play it was tough. But we never gave up — it was just too hard to come back.” — Bryan Vega, Comet striker

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

MERCED — The Comet football team extended its winning streak to 13 games, including six wins on the road, with a 33-28 victory at Merced College (2-2) on Saturday.

Traveling to the Central Valley and facing off against one of the top prospects at cornerback in the state, Merced’s Devron Davis, would be a daunting task for any freshman quarterback.

But Contra Costa College’s play caller Cameron Burston (15 for 20 passing for 200 COMETS yards and four touchdowns) led his team through hostile territory.

“Our quarterback play has been exceptional this year,” Comet coach Alonzo Carter said. “Cam (Burston) BLUE DEVILS is first in the state in completion percentage and seventh in touchdowns with 12 — he hasn’t thrown an interception all season.”

Tension was high throughout the game and both teams were warned to stop trash talking and roughhousing after the whistle.

High intensity play returns to San Pablo on Saturday when Los Medanos College challenges the sanctity of the Comet’s Homecoming Game 6 p.m. at Comet Stadium.

The Blue Devils lived up to their name, earning two separate personal fouls for ripping off CCC players’ helmets.

The Comets owned the action on the field early.

First by forcing an opening drive punt for Merced, which was highlighted by a monstrous sack by CCC linebacker Toddrick Gaines for a 6-yard loss.

“They tried blocking me,” Gaines said. “But when they saw me coming around the edge they couldn’t stop me.”

Energized by Gaines’ bone jarring shot, CCC’s offense made its way toward the Blue Devils’s end zone. It marched 85 yards in 15 plays before receiver Sterling Taylor ultimately crossed the goal line after catching a 6-yard pass from Burston.

The Comets led 7-0 with 7:11 minutes remaining in the first quarter. Rather than appear shaken by the way CCC’s offense had its way with them, Merced players seemed eager for the chance to answer the blow they had taken.

Before the Comet players were done celebrating the score, Blue Devil kick returner Jeffery Richardson was at midfield, slipping tackles en route to a 94-yard touchdown return. CCC led 7-6 after the failed Merced kick.

The Comets, aware that Davis was lurking in the backfield, balanced the offense with a healthy dose of running game. The seven-play drive only featured two passes, a 14-yard first down to receiver Tyrone Morgan and a 25-yard touchdown to Burston’s new security blanket — receiver Frank Stephens.

Stephens was selected as the American Division Offensive Player of the Week last week and already has 20 receptions for 454 yards and six touchdowns this season.

At the end of the first quarter CCC led 14-6. With the first score, before the grins could be removed from the Comet faces, the Devils were poised to score. This time by way of a 79-yard touchdown pass by Merced quarterback Sincere Jones to a dashing Richardson.

The Blue Devils tied the score at 14-14 with a two-point conversion. After punting on the following possession, CCC held Merced to a 46-yard field goal attempt — and blocked it.

With the game tied, and seven minutes to go before halftime, both teams exchanged punts on their following possessions.

At halftime the Comets led at 20-14.

In the second half, the CCC defense opened the floodgates and spilled the Blue Devil’s desire to win all over the ground. All they could muster was a late 3-yard rushing touchdown to bring the score to its final count of Contra Costa College with 33 and Merced College with 28.

33 28

CHRISTIAN URRUTIA / THE ADVOCATE

Comets cede late set-piece goal, lose against Coyotes Men’s

BY Lorenzo Morotti

soccer

lmorotti.theadvocate@gmail.com

team tied for second place in conference after home loss

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The men’s soccer team ceded a late goal off a Lake Tahoe Community College corner kick on Friday at the Soccer Field and now faces consecutive losses going into conference play.

The Comets (4-3-1 overall in the Bay Valley Conference) finished their preseason tied in second place with Yuba College, and Mendocino College with eight points out of eight games played, after falling 1-0 to the Rams at City College of San Francisco on Sept. 22.

CCC will play its first conference game against Yuba on Tuesday possibly without leading goal scorer Pedro Rodriguez after injuring his foot early in Friday’s game against LTCC. Rodriguez is in second place in statewide standings according to cccaasports. org with eight goals scored in non-conference play.

Every goal in the Comets’ 3-1 defeat against the Coyotes (6-3-1 overall) came off a set-piece play, which is when a play is stopped for a foul, out of bounds, and results in a free kick, corner kick, penalty kick or throw-in.

“I still had hope when we were down 2-1, but once (LTCC) put in the third goal with only three minutes left to play it was tough,” Comet striker Byran Vega said.

“But we never gave up — it was just too hard to come back.”

During the Coyotes’ third corner at 87 minutes, center defensive back Miguel Prieto cleaned up center attacking midfielder Jerrel Cato’s loose cross into the box from the corner flag, but not before it bounced off centerback Danny Culverwell’s head to redirect the ball toward the far post to seal the win.

“We have to stay more attached to each other,” Comet defensive fullback Davis Okonkwo said. “We lost sight of each oth-

er’s position and the play.”

Lake Tahoe coach Ben Wade said the Comets defense was solid throughout transitional play, but it was more the condition of the field that was worked against them.

“It was a good game,” Wade said. “A back and forth battle between two playoff teams. I just hope CCC puts more money into fixing up the field by the next time we come out.”

Comet coach Nikki Ferguson said because of the unevenness of the Soccer Field home games are usually determined in the air. “We didn’t win a single ball in the air in the first half,” Ferguson said. “We did a little better in the second.”

The Coyotes scored on two of their three corner kicks and were awarded a penalty kick three minutes into the second half.

CCC’s lone goal at minute 57; however, spurred a heated physical battle for possession of the midfield as it trailed 2-1.

Comet striker Missel Hernandez used his head to knock in a loose ball after it rebounded off the leg of Coyote goalkeeper Victor Andrades.

Comet striker Byran Santos assisted Hernandez’s goal. Santos had the initial touch off a corner kick from right field that Andrades somehow managed to read and reach at the far post.

Goals from Culverwell and Cato at minutes 12 and 47 rounded off LTCC’s set piece team-hat trick.

While CCC’s overall possession and pressure improved in the second half, attacking plays rarely produced scoring opportunities and the Comets relied on half chances to accumulate its four shots on goal while Lake Tahoe finished with 10.

Comet goalkeeper Eduardo Escamilla finished the game with seven saves.

“It was a tale of two halves that we plan to learn from,” Ferguson said. “But I’m excited about our playoff chances compared with last season considering we had to go against a tougher quality of non-conference competitors.”

ABOVE: Coyote midfielder Daniel Valdez (left) shields Comet striker Bryan Vega (right) from the ball during Contra Costa College’s 3-1 loss to Lake Tahoe Community College on Friday at the Soccer Field.

COYOTES

3

COMETS

1

SOCCER SEASON TEETERS ON THE BRINK OF CANCELLATION Team struggles with small roster, injuries FALCONS

6 0

COMETS

BY Robert Clinton SPORTS EDITOR

rclinton.theadvocate@gmail.com

The women’s soccer team took the field for the first time this season fielding seven players and giving up six goals before ultimately forfeiting the game against Folsom Lake College (4-1-1 overall and 3-0 in the Bay Valley Conference) due to an in-game injury on Sept.

15 at the Soccer Field.

Merely fielding a team was a victory of sorts for the Comets (0-1 in the BVC), showing how far behind its first step into the 2015 season was when compared to where FLC is in its season.

Its subsequent away game against Mendocino College on Friday was rescheduled, Comet striker Mary Sanchez said.

“We have to play three games in a week because we rescheduled,” Sanchez said. “We have to play back-toback games on Tuesday, Wednesday and then we play Los Medanos College (on the Soccer Field) on Friday (this week).”

Contra Costa College Athletic Director John Wade said, “I can’t decide whether to cancel the season or not. The rule says as long as you have at least seven players then you play.

“The women’s program is a work in progress; we

have to give them the opportunity,” Wade said. “But Folsom (Lake College’s) athletic director wasn’t happy about spending $1,000 to make the trip here and not getting in a full game. All I could say is that I didn’t make the rules.”

The lack of real time game action was a factor for CCC it showed a lack of crispness and in overall conditioning.

From the opening whistle, six Comets chased the ball as 10 opponents played keep away testing the Comets endurance, ultimately resulting in an open shot for the Falcons.

“It was the first game so you couldn’t go in with many expectations,” Comet coach Amanda Beckenhauer said. “After the first 15-20 minutes they got past the frustration of it and learned that it is going to take patience — your mindset has to change when you are only playing with seven players.”

Comet goalkeeper Dominique Trevino blocked the first three Falcon shots on goal, but after an ankle injury to striker Zoe Glover, Trevino was forced on to the field.

Due to playing with seven players, three fewer than a normal starting line up, Glover threw on an orange vest and simply switched positions with Trevino.

Seven minutes later, a FLC center attacking mid-

fielder challenged Trevino for possession, missed the ball and kicked her in the ankle.

She was unable to get up and was carried off the field by Glover and Athletic Trainer Mikel Jackson.

This forced the officials to end the game with the Comets fielding an insufficient number of players at 34 minutes, before halftime.

In total the Falcons attempted a whopping 12 shots on goal in the first 36 minutes of play. They were successful at the 2, 3, 6, 25, 27 and 31 minute marks with two FLC players Karina Torres and Andrea Martinez) falling just one goal short of a hat trick.

“After the first 10 minutes we got used to being back and defending so we just pushed back on defense,” Glover said. “When they saw that we were defending their shots, they started playing harder.”

For a solid 19 minutes CCC did not yield a point to the Falcons between the sixth and the 25th minute.

The Comets weighed the pros and cons of taking an aggressive offensive approach with the downfall being that it leaves the backside vulnerable.

FLC’s numbers advantage would leave Trevino helpless in the face of a flock of Falcons. At 20 minutes, it looked as though the game may be over as Glover lay on the field in pain, after Trevino’s injury play was halted.

8

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WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 9.30.2015 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE

‘PHANTOM PAIN’ CONCLUDES ADORED, ENTHRALLING SERIES

Eleventh installment of epic espionage action experience transcends expectations

the ability to scout ahead and eliminate anyone in her sights as Big Boss crawls ccasares.theadvocate@gmail.com through an enemy camp. etal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom D-Dog can smell nearby enemies and Pain,” is the most extensively resources. He even can wield a blade in detailed beautifully crafted his mouth and slash throats of unsusmasterpiece of a video game you will pecting enemies given the command. ever play.

Lastly, there is D-Horse; who provides a “The Phantom Pain,” is the latfast stealthy option to navigate the masest release from video game director sive world.

Hideo Kojima and Konami Digital The range of support roles does not Entertainment Inc. The video game stop at just buddies. Players also have a saga has spanned nearly a decade support squad that includes a helicopter. and continues to awe fans with The support squad is also in charge of action and storytelling that rivals extracting resources and captured eneanything on TV or Hollywood mies who are then persuaded to join Big movies.

Boss’ organization.

The game takes place in 1984, Kojima chose to alter some major after Big Boss wakes from a nineaspects that were prevalent in previous year coma after an attempted rescue “Metal Gear,” titles with the release of mission goes haywire and his helicopter the “Phantom Pain.” In previous games blows up with him on board. in the series Kojima has been known Big Boss is a decorated war hero for including numerous 20-plus-minute and leader of FOXHOUND; an elite cinematic cut-scenes explaining charachigh-tech special paramilitary task ters background in excruciating detail. force. Upon waking Big Boss Where and how they got where (Punished “Venom” Snake) they are in the universe and everyVIDEO seeks revenge alongside his thing in between.

GAME comrades Ocelot and Miller The exclusion of these plotREVIEW and begins to rebuild his filled segments in “The Phantom “Metal Gear military power. The events Pain” allows players the chance Solid V: The that occur take place before to craft their own story using the Phantom Pain” the previous titles with the mechanics of the game now that Director: Hideo storyline connecting back to the optional plot-heavy dialogue the first game to wrap up the Kojima is accessible from the map screen.

Genre: Actionentire Metal Gear series.

Instead of helplessly watching the adventure “The Phantom Pain,” at its Release Date: hero narrowly escape and board Sept. 1 core is a stealth-based action the helicopter, players can play the game with players sneaking scene out themselves. around enemy camps remainKojima chose to replace long ing undetected. But with that being said, time voice of Big Boss and (the origit does not mean when you are spotted inal) Solid Snake, David Hayter, with all you can do is run and hide.

Hollywood star Kiefer Sutherland to The controls are smooth and Big Boss provide a more believable script. has a wide array of weapons and skills The attention to detail in the game that allow players to stand their ground is astonishing. Knock over a bucket or like never before. bump a chair going through a room and There is also the option to use nearby enemies will hear it and come non-lethal tranquilizing and rubber to investigate. Enemies will even adapt rounds or resort to lethal lead. using varying tactics and body armor to Players also have a choice of one better defend against the player’s tactics buddy who deploy alongside Big infiltrating base after base.

Boss and can be given orders to “The Phantom Pain,” features a full perform specific roles to assist day-night cycle with an ever-changin whatever play style fits the ing environment as well. Weather can player. change from sunny and bright to zero D-Walker is a robot AI armed visibility from a sand storm or a pouring with a mini-gun and thunderstorm depending on the location several other in game. armaments.

The graphics engine (Fox Engine) Another is simply stunning. The game features option textures, scenery and sounds that truly available immerse the player into the “Metal to players Gear,” universe. is Quiet.

The small details that are littered Quiet is throughout the open-world make the a highly environment believable. The wild aniskilled mals set the scene perfectly along with sniper the vehicles, gear and even the music. who has Enemy camps can be found playing 80s-based musical hits like “The Man Who Sold The World,” by David Bowie to “Take on Me,” by A-ha. All of the different aspects of weather, sound, time of day, customizable gear and buddy options available to players makes becoming Big Boss too much fun.

By Cody Casares PHOTO EDITOR

‘M

Ocelot Big Boss’s number two, Ocelot is a clever, snarky and relentless gunslinger. He grew an obsession with Big Boss during Operation: Snake Eater. A member of FOXHOUND, Ocelot advises Big Boss in the field via radio.

Quiet An elite sniper, Quiet is originally deployed to eliminate Big Boss but she joins FOXHOUND after a sniper battle with Big Boss leaves her stunned and she is captured. Quiet possesses supernatural abilities.

Big Boss Big Boss is “the perfect soldier.” As leader of FOXHOUND he is a master at hand to hand CQC (Close Quarters Combat). Big Boss is a decorated war hero turned mercenary who dreams of a paramilitary nation (Outer Haven) free of political corruption.

Having almost been killed by Skullface he seeks revenge for himself and his comrades.