The Advocate - Sept. 22, 2010

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

campus beat ◆ page 8

CMYK

sports ◆ pages 6-7

Season previewed

Bridging the gap

College to fix imbalance

Teams anticipate success under new coaches

scene ◆ page 12

Reaching gamers

Latest ‘Halo’ wows fans

VOL. 95, NO. 4

SINCE 1950

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM

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

12 PAGES, ONE COPY FREE

Pending bill guarantees admission Transfer

By Sam Attal

degree

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

creates

A bill guaranteeing transfer students admission to the California State University system is waiting to be signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

If signed into law, the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act, or Senate Bill 1440, would

path into CSU

implement a transfer degree available at California community colleges, United Faculty President Jeffrey Michels said.

The degree would ensure students a spot in the CSU system with junior status.

“This creates a path that way more of our students will take,” Michels said.

SB1440 is expected to be signed by Schwarzenegger

District budget proposed

in the upcoming weeks and would go into effect in fall 2011, Olgalilia Ramirez, director for government relations at the California State Student Association, said.

Many community colleges have the Transfer Admission Guarantee in place with individual schools in the CSU system, however, the transfer degree would be universal among any

school in the system.

The degree would require 18 units in a major of interest. Classes required include those on the CSU General Education Transfer Worksheet and the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC), but students will have a better understanding of what they need to take, Ramirez said.

“IGETC and CSU Transfer requirements vary from campus to campus and are confusing to students,” Ramirez said.

The focus of SB1440 is to get students in and out of school as quickly as possible without being puzzled about what classes they must take, she said.

“Students get caught up in ■ SEE SB1440: Page 4

SNAZZY SOUL

New allocation model puts strain on college

By Cody McFarland SCENE EDITOR

As the district depletes reserves to finance operations well into the second month of the semester, the state has yet to replace question marks with dollar signs as the education budget remains undeclared.

A tentative proposal delineated by the best educated guesses of the Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board has been implemented, accompanied by a new allocation model.

The 2010-11 Adoption Budget totals $480,029,103 to be distributed under allocation model SB 361 “We’re working to Contra C o s t a under a cap. Even College, if we could bring Diablo Va l l e y in more students, College, we would not get L o s Medanos the funding to College and serve them.” the district office in Frank Hernandez, Martinez. senior dean of students Though the district has voted this to be its hypothetical budget, the state has yet to pass any legislation on the topic, leaving room for possible cuts to occur whenever a state education budget is finally adopted.

“We aren’t anticipating severe cuts, but do predict serving more students than are being funded,” District Director of Fiscal Services Judy Breza said. “We want to provide as many open seats for (potential students) as we can.”

This year, CCC has been cast into the middle of what Senior Dean of Students Frank Hernandez calls “the perfect financial storm,” combining factors of potential cuts ■ SEE BUDGET: Page 4

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

In the rhythm — Constinance bass player Bobby Reed performs during Richmond Main Street’s second annual Spirit & Soul Festival on Sunday. Many musicians performed at the event and promoted togetherness among Richmond residents and members of the community.

THE RICHMOND SPIRIT

By Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER

RICHMOND – Music, food, wine and dancing are four things that help put a positive spirit back in the heart of Richmond.

The Richmond Main Street Non-profit Organization had its second annual Spirit & Soul Festival Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

The founder of Richmond Main Street, Amanda Elliott, says that her organization’s mission is to “revitalize Downtown Richmond” and the Spirit & Soul Festival fundraiser was intended to bring the people of

Richmond together for a positive cause.

“The whole point (of the festival) is to bring people downtown and to revitalize downtown Richmond,” Elliott said.

Richmond Main Street is located on Macdonald Avenue, and the organization will be having other events to make a change in the community and rebuild Main Street. They are planning to have at least four events every year, and they want to have these events in the middle of the city to spread awareness.

The festival took place in a garden on the corner of Macdonald Avenue and Harbour

Way. Richmond Mayor Gayle McLaughlin said that positive events such as Spirit & Soul are happening more and more in the city, and that she is very involved with Richmond Main Street.

McLaughlin says that she often coordinates with Elliott in various events and that she was there to “share a good time with the community.” “(The festival is held) to make people feel like Richmond is their city. It’s their place,” McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin works with Elliott in other events, such as their monthly health awareness demonstration meetings held the

first Friday of every month in Harbour Way Park.

Contra Costa College President McKinley Williams and his gospel music group, Constinance, performed in front of the crowd.

“We don’t perform much, but we’re doing this for Amanda to support the Richmond Main Street Project,” Williams said.

The festival is a great activity and “Richmond needs these events,” he said. He also said that he fully supports and is involved with the Richmond Main Street Organization.

Program Coordinator Anyka Barber said that the Spirit & ■ SEE FESTIVAL: Page 4

Culinary kiosk extends options

Snack time — Culinary arts student Melanie White serves food to student Kimberly Jones at the new Three Seasons Switch kiosk in the AA Building on Monday.

Switch offers a variety of foods in its lengthy hours of operation throughout the week.

By Natalie Estrada STAFF WRITER

CMYK

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Students and college employees now have an alternative to Subway and the Bookstore when searching for food.

The culinary arts department has opened a kiosk in the Applied Arts Building across from the Three Seasons Restaurant to provide fresh food made by students.

The booth, named Switch, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Food is also served on Fridays from 8:30

a.m. to 1 p.m.

“It’s really helpful to have something like this to come to and eat,” student and customer Kim Cabrera said. The kiosk offers various choices of food and drinks such as sandwiches, salads, lumpia, coffee, pastries and fresh juice. Just like the Three Seasons Restaurant, Switch only accepts cash and offers most food for under $2.

“The kiosk will not be replacing the Express Café (located inside the Three Seasons Restaurant), it’s more like another option,” culinary arts student Melanie White said.

■ SEE SWITCH: Page 4

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

2 THE ADVOCATE Quotable “I think censors do what only psychotics do. They confuse illusion with reality.”

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 VOL. 95, NO. 4 ●

Editorial Reporters censored

David Cronenberg motion picture director 1992 Sam Attal editor-in-chief Dariush Azmoudeh associate editor Lamar James associate editor Cassidy Gooding opinion editor Cassandra Juniel spotlight editor Malcolm Lastra sports editor Alexandra Waite news editor Cody McFarland scene editor George Morin photo editor Christian Soto assistant photo editor Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Hilberth Ibarra Natalie Estrada Cary Gooding April Halog Jermaine Harrison David Kelley III Cheuk Ko Lina Lam Janit Saechao Rodney Woodson Staff photographers Qing Huang Adam Oliver Staff illustrators Roy Chan Joel Ode Faythe Del Rosario Honors ACP National Newspaper Pacemaker Award 1990, 1994, 1997,1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 CNPA Better Newspaper Contest 1st Place Award 1970, 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 JACC Pacesetter Award 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Member Associated Collegiate Press California Newspaper Publishers Association Journalism Association of Community Colleges How to reach us Phone: 510.235.7800 ext. 4315 Fax: 510.235.NEWS E-mail: advocate@ contracosta.edu or letters.advocate@ gmail.com Editorial policy Columns and editorial cartoons are the opinion of individual writers and artists and not that of The Advocate. Editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board, which is made up of student editors.

OPINION

l WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010

Southwestern College violates rights

T

he administration at a Southern California community college has denied its students the opportunity to publish a newspaper just before a controversial Governing Board election is scheduled to happen.

After countless stories and editorials were published about Southwestern College’s budget problems, accreditation issues, section cuts and employee practices, Southwestern College Sun editors were told last week they are to cease publication indefinitely until an agreement is reached between the paper and campus administrators.

The news came to the paper’s Editorial Board and staff after campus officials dusted off a district policy stating that The Sun must bid and sign a contract with the cheapest printer in the area.

The policy has not been enforced for more than 20 years, as The Sun works with multiple printers to produce its issues in case one is backed up. It produces 10-12 issues each year with an average cost of $3,200 per issue.

In an e-mail sent to the paper’s Faculty Advisor Max Branscomb, his division dean threatened that if the staff printed the paper with college funds, he would face ramifications for insubordination.

Consequences included suspension with the chance of being fired.

“There have been a lot of attempts to slow our production,” The Sun’s Editorin-Chief Diana Inocencio said.

This is not the first time Inocencio and her staff have faced obstacles with the college administration.

Inocencio said reporters have been forced to try and contact an apathetic public information officer for any issues that involve administration instead of directly asking officials themselves.

The officials simply ignore the reporters and refer them back to the public information officer. “(Southwestern College’s administration is) basically standing in the way of someone’s learning experience,” The Sun’s senior staff writer Lyndsay Winkley said.

The college’s choice to deny the students the right to publish information on the upcoming election is a form of prior restraint. The paper should not be directed by the people it reports on, but rather the students who produce it.

Although the college’s policy is a valid legal agreement, it was obviously not important enough to use over the past two decades. This policy needs to be voided soon.

Since the college administration will not let any of the budget go toward the production of the paper, The Sun is scrambling to collect donations from their local community members to print the semester’s first issue.

The Advocate commends the staff of The Sun for its effort to continue serving its readers.

ROY CHAN / THE ADVOCATE

■ Sports

Idolizing athletes halts goals, potentials

F

ebruary 2002 – Super Bowl XXXVI is blaring over the big screen at my friend’s house. The shouts of middle-aged men leaping about and spilling their beers are audible over the commotion of the game, even from the street outside. The Rams are favored over the Patriots, yet New England leads.

None of this matters to me.

The only thought that occupies my mind is that I’m standing behind the line of scrimmage, anticipating the snap, waiting for the ball to take flight and find safe passage into my arms and into the end zone.

I make the catch. I make the touchdown. My fourman team manages to run in a two-point conversion and win the game. As if synced, the confusion of groans and cheers from both the kids on the street and the adults indoors fill the evening air.

Both games had come to an end, though the feelings of sportsmanship and camaraderie elating the children on the street stand unparalleled by those of the men inside. Somehow, our victory seemed much more tangible.

I was 11 then and am nearly 20 now, but I still could not care less about the Patriots’ unexpected win, nor that their quarterback Tom Brady was named Super Bowl MVP. As illegitimate as our eight-man game may have been, what really mattered to me, and what remains most important to this day, is that I was playing.

I simply cannot comprehend how people get so

players easily make double or triple those amounts.

For example, basketball icon LeBron James made $15,779,912 playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2009-10 season. Of course, James is highly skilled and worked up and competian incredible athlete, yet tive over a game they aren’t that’s still quite the price for actively participating in. entertainment.

Sure, it’s always fun to Whether your favorite cheer for your local big team wins or loses, you go leaguers and school sports on in life ultimately unafteams and the Super Bowl fected. You may be a little is an American tradition. bummed that certain players My problem lies within the were lacking in performance, grossly commercialized but it wasn’t your career sports entertainment industry on the line. Likewise, you that segues into hero-worachieved nothing for the ship and results in fans livteam as well. It’s easy being ing vicariously through their competitive when you aren’t sports idols instead of getting held accountable. active themselves.

Well, sports fans, I am Though sports are a thriv- holding you accountable. ing source of entertainment Quit obsessing over the with much media promiathletes you aren’t. You nence, they offer very little shouldn’t care about who stimulation to this spectator. has the best stats; rather, you The real entertainment, I should be your own hero feel, comes from physically scoring your own points. partaking in a game, not Playing in a local league watching one. or even with friends in your My biggest pet peeve is free time is more rewardhearing, “We did it!” after a ing. Your nook on the couch game. Let me ask you, how won’t miss you, I promise. did you help the team win?

If you practiced and Getting off your butt to scrimmaged as much as you cheer when someone on the watched whatever sport you team scores is hardly ground like, you would become a for inclusion. Yes, you’ve better athlete. You may not been adequately entertained, be in the major leagues, but but to no one except the your love for the game is over-paid athletes’ benefit. what truly counts.

On average each year, basI’d choose the field over ketball players make $5 mil- the couch any day. I hope lion, baseball players make you’d do the same. $2.8 million and football Cody McFarland is the players make $1.75 million. scene editor of The Advocate.

These salaries fall in the middle-class of athletes and, Contact him at cmcfarland. though some make less, star advocate@gmail.com.

codymcfarland

CampusComment

What do you think of the new Switch snack bar in the AA Building?

“It is really good, convenient and affordable.”

“I haven’t even heard about it.”

“(It’s a) great way to grab food on the run.”

“(The food) wasn’t very good.”

Dora Chacon

Bill Eichen

Daniel De Los Santos

Alec Meckier

undecided

humanities

graphic design

psychology

“I think (opening the kiosk) was a good idea.”

“I don’t like how they don’t take debit or credit cards, but I do like their food.”

Nicole Koyunagi MCHS

Evan Conyers nursing

ROY CHAN / THE ADVOCATE

FORUM ■ Harassment

cassandrajuniel

Bullying hurts beyond playground

M

any of us in our youth, and some older, experienced times when someone has approached us with insults – about clothing, character or whatever may seem different to the perpetrator. This practice is known as bullying.

There is nothing right about it and it happens regularly to victims who have done nothing to deserve it.

Bullying affects many teenagers across America, and is not limited to only young people. However, it is the teens that you normally hear about. Kids who may either be jealous of others or just troublemakers will go to extremes to get the attention of their victims by spitting, throwing items and even sometimes pulling hair, calling names and hitting them.

Many bullying incidents go unreported for fear of intensified bodily harm. What some bullies may not know is that actions such as this cause mental anguish, depression and even suicide.

A 13-year-old girl hanged herself after she fell victim to a cyber-bullying campaign that was orchestrated by the mother of one of her classmates. She (the mother) pretended to be a young, goodlooking boy named “Josh.”

Megan Meyers had been corresponding with “Josh Evans” for over six weeks.

Suddenly, the relationship ended by Josh saying he heard she was cruel. The next day, Megan committed suicide. She had been suffering from depression.

Just recently, a father in Florida boarded his daughter’s school bus, threatening the kids who caused problems for his daughter. Surveillance video from the bus shows the man using profane language and telling the kids on the bus that he would be back if they messed with his daughter.

It was told on “Good Morning America” that there were young boys who had been bullying the man’s daughter since the time she began attending the school, accused of tossing condoms at her and pulling her hair.

She has cerebral palsy.

The father was arrested, charged with disorderly conduct and interruption of a school function. The Sheriff’s Department commented that he did not contact school officials, or their office to complain and it was felt that he could have caused bodily harm to those who threatened his daughter.

Lastly, a 14-year-old mixed race girl was the victim of racist bullying by a 15-year-old, BNP supporter (British National Party), who repeatedly insulted her with racist remarks for six months.

The girl, who is a mix of white and African American, was called names such as “coon”, “nigger” and “gorilla.” She became so upset that she attempted to commit suicide with an overdose of pills.

Bullying, in no matter what form it occurs, is obviously more serious than many believe it to be and can cause devastating, long-lasting effects. Therefore, if you or someone you know is bullying, think twice before the act is committed. You may very well end up saving someone’s life.

Cassandra Juniel is the spotlight editor of The Advocate. Contact her at cjuniel.advocate@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

3

■ Privacy

R

Racy texts unsafe to sender

ecently I have been watching a bunch of repeats of one of my favorite shows: “Law and Order: Special Victims Unit.”

A particular episode that grabbed my attention depicted a girl getting beaten by her boyfriend for texting another guy a naked picture of herself. This is an extreme example of sexting gone wrong.

Now, I shouldn’t take the episode too seriously, since it is a fictional television show; however, cases similar to this are by no means uncommon.

“Sexting” is the sending of sexually explicit messages or pictures via text messaging. As shocking as it sounds, it is a widespread practice these days. While many adults do it, the act is most common among young adults and teenagers.

In 2008, The National

aprilhalog Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy sponsored a survey of more than 1,000 teenagers and young adults, in which the participants were split into groups according to age and questioned about sexting.

Twenty percent of the teenage group, ranging from ages 13 to 19, admitted to electronically sending nude or semi-nude pictures of themselves to someone else.

Meanwhile, in the young adult group, where age ranged from 20 to 26, 33 percent admitted to doing the same.

Many view sexting as a way to spice up a relationship or a way to get the attention of an admirer, but what seems like an innocent gesture can lead to a lot of trouble. With the advancement of social networking and the Internet, it takes less than a minute to upload your pictures or relay a message from your friends.

Before you know it, your message or picture could be put up on the Internet for all to see. Not only would your friends see, but your family, mere acquaintances and total strangers would, too. It is not assured, but there is a likely chance of someone taking your nude photo and posting it on adult websites.

Once people see your naked photo, you will be viewed differently. You might receive an unfavorable reputation, and friends may turn

away from you because of it. Also, that sort of publicity can lead to unwanted sexual advances, made especially disturbing if from total strangers.

Imagine someone knowing your face and body intimately, and yet you’ve never met that person in your life.

Creepy, isn’t it?

Whatever your view on sexting is, it is not going away anytime soon. If you do it, just remember to be smart about it. Remember that very few things on the Internet are private anymore.

If you insist on sexting, be aware of the risks involved and make sure you completely trust the person getting these messages.

April Halog is a staff writer for The Advocate.

Contact her at ahalog. advocate@gmail.com.

MailBag Transfer Reception coverage gets student thinking about future Editor: I enjoyed reading the article “End-ofyear reception honors transfers” (May 19) because I, too, plan to transfer to a four-year university from Contra Costa College. I think it was a good touch to include wise words from CCC alumni, which were truthful and informative about the move from community college to university.

The comment by Victoria ChavezCasias is nerve-wracking to think about because she describes the change as being “like coming from elementary school right into college.” ChavezCasias’ statement is helpful for all transfer students because it is always better to have a good idea of what to expect.

That way, we can start preparing early.

I was also interested in how the Senior Dean of Students Frank Hernandez called out to all the students in the audience and told them they needed to return and help out in any way possible. I see a lot of students, specifically at CCC, who are working

towards a degree solely to pursue higher paying jobs. According to Hernandez, though, the knowledge and experience that we gain from the universities should be used to help out our society.

Overall, this article is captivating and a motivating force for me to stay on my path to become more knowledgeable. I feel that all students can and will play a big role in shaping the next generation of society, so it is important that we use our skills to help others in the long run.

Sebastian Barahona, student

Sex for Sale

Regulated prostitution aids economy

By Cassidy Gooding

S

OPINION EDITOR

ex sells.

Everyone’s heard it, and there are those spending tons of money proving it. Whether you are watching television, reading a magazine or simply walking down the street, you are being constantly bombarded with sexual imagery. Big money companies have learned that using sex is the best way to reach their hands into your pants to get at just what they all want - your money.

Axe does it to sell deodorant; Carl’s Jr. uses it for selling burgers.

In fact, mostly everything, from Nike to Swiffer, has sex cleverly (or sometimes not so cleverly) disguised in their advertising. So, naturally, all the lewd conduct begs the question: since we know sex sells, why not sell sex?

The projected gap between the revenue California will bring in this year and annual expenditures is currently falling around $14 billion. Last year’s defect was $6.3 billion. People everywhere are making cuts in their everyday lives - taking measures to save money as the state is scrambling desperately to bring in more money.

Prostitutes, also known as escorts, call girls, streetwalkers and countless other names, can potentially make quite a bit of money. There are those that “turn tricks” many days a week, charging $100 to $250 a customer, and others with wealthier markets that can pull $2,000 in a single night.

Other than a percentage paid to their pimp, or other form of third party that sets them up with their clientele (a service that, for independents, does not exist at all), a prostitute keeps all of her income.

With tax rates as they are this year in California, a prostitute could owe anywhere from $60,000-$100,000 in income tax alone. A small dent in our deficit per worker, but help nonetheless in the bigger picture. If prostitution is legalized and recognized as a legitimate profession, California could have much to gain. Prostitution is hap-

pening regardless, so why not profit from it? Instead, every time a sex worker is arrested for illicit business, it costs the state $2,000 in police processing and legal fees, further widening the fissure of our debt.

Aside from the money, though, are other reasons to legalize prostitution. If legalized and regulated, abusive clients and pimps would be eliminated from the process.

Patrons and prostitutes would both be screened for sexually transmitted diseases, which could help cap the rampant rise of them (which went up 53 percent from 1997 to 2007) all around the country.

California is widely known as one of the most progressive states in the country. San Francisco is a haven city for immigrants; Richmond is the largest city in the country with a Green Party mayor; the option to legalize marijuana is coming up on November’s ballot. So why are we still slaves to the antiquated puritanical values set out almost 400 years ago?

Craigslist, the online community for classified advertisements, was coerced into removing the “adult services” section from the website two weeks ago, after a longlived argument that the section facilitated human trafficking and illegal conduct.

The website’s CEOs, though not planning

on reinstating the section, have commented that removing it will just force traffickers to less visible places.

Levis uses half-naked women to sell jeans, and Victoria’s Secret ads are obviously pretty risqué. Children who are too young to even access Craigslist are inundated with sexual imagery constantly, and people barely bat an eyelash. The bottom line is that California is broke, and the stigma against prostitution is something we should have been past decades ago.

It’s the oldest profession in the world, and inevitably going on no matter what the law may be.

Comcast hints at turtle sex to sell high-speed Internet, but a man or woman can’t offer sexual services legally. People can go out and buy something as ridiculous as a blanket with sleeves, or a segway vehicle, but Mr. Lonely can’t purchase himself a companion for a night.

Sex sells, and selling sex would be a very lucrative business.

Contact Cassidy Gooding at cgooding.advocate@gmail.com.

JOEL ODE / THE ADVOCATE

4 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010

accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Twitter

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

Newsline ■ INTERNET HELP

Workshop builds skills

The Library and Learning Resournce Center will host a workshop focused on improving Web searching skills today from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The workshop is meant to teach Internet users about different search engines, how to use them and how to check for the accuracy of their results.

■ DEBATE

Panel argues ‘snitching’ A debate on “snitching” will take place in the Fireside Room today from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Richmond Mayor Gayle McLaughlin is one of the invited panelists who willdiscuss personal integrity and values during this free event.

■ POWERPOINT

Lesson gives introduction Students seeking help to understand the basics of PowerPoint slideshows are invited to the Introduction to PowerPoint workshop in the Library and Learning Resource Center on Monday from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The creation, editing and sequencing of slideshows will be explained.

■ CAREER FAIR

Information provided The ASU will team up with the Rotary Club to present a career fair in the Fireside Room on Sept. 29 in two sessions – the first from noon to 2 p.m. and second from 4 to 6 p.m.

The event will provide information to students planning for their future.

CrimeWatch Monday, Sept. 13 A suspect was contacted for a vehicle violation and was found to be in possession of a replica firearm, powder cocaine and crystal methamphetamine. The suspect was transported to Martinez Detention Facility.

Tuesday, Sept. 14 A victim reported that his vehicle was broken into while parked on campus.

Thursday, Sept. 16 A victim reported that his vehicle was vandalized while parked on campus.

CAMPUS BEAT

SB1440 | Curriculum promises junior status ■ FROM: Page 1

the bureaucracy and spend more time (in school) than they intend (to),” Ramirez said. “It’s important that we not only get students into school, but also out.”

The degree does not guarantee admission into a CSU of a student’s choice, it only provides a clear route for those who wish to get into a four-year institution, Academic Senate President Richard Akers said.

Students will be accepted on a firstcome-first-serve basis and spaces are limited.

“You’re not going to have people caught in the junior college system for an extra semester or year,” Dr. Akers said.

The degree would also be a useful will be chosen. alternative for students who attend “In my 30 years in education, I’ve communever seen nity college a major without change “It’s important that we not an idea of this,” only get students into school, like what they CCC Vice want to President but also out.”

C a r o l major in, he said.

Maga said.

Olgalilia Ramirez, “For the “I’m wondirector of government relations for the California State Student Association students dering how that don’t it’s going to know what get implethey’re going into, I’d (recommend) mented. It’s going to take a while to get it ironed out.” a transfer degree,” he said.

Many are looking forward to the Akers agreed.

“Once (SB1440) is passed, the bill passing, yet some wonder how the classes required for the degree institutions have to change the way

they do business,” he said. “There’s a lot of matriculation that will happen.”

Akers also said that some students might be discouraged from taking classes to receive an associate degree in favor of the transfer degree, if SB1440 is passed. Departments may need to adapt their programs to match the simplicity of the transfer degree’s pathway.

“Areas of study will get in line with the 60-unit formula, because if they don’t, students will take the more efficient route (with the transfer degree),” Akers said.

Contact Sam Attal at sattal. advocate@gmail.com.

Festival | Community congregates, celebrates ■ FROM: Page 1

Soul Festival was inspired to promote change and highlight the good things that are happening in Richmond.

The gala was catered by culinary arts department Chairman Nader Sharkes and the CCC culinary art students. Sharkes said that it was “great to be out in the community, putting a good presence out there.”

The menu had many different selections including anti-pasta, salami with cheese, chicken empanadas and wine.

The stone walkway was artfully decorated with the word “Welcome” spread out in front of the gates. The $40 admission proceeds will go to support local Richmond businesses and other Richmond Main Street programs, such as their youth program and their Clean and Safe Initiative.

Volunteer and Richmond resident Amira Hayes said she joined the production of this event because it is a “good opportunity to serve the community” and that she knew she would have a lot of fun. Along the entrance walkway, there were boutiques offering items such as clay sculptures, or chair massages from a certified massage therapist.

The classic blues and gospel music was played for the

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

Come together — Stars of Glory members Elane Foster (left) and June Skillman sing gospel music during Richmond Main Street’s second annual Spirit & Soul Festival on Sunday. The event featured many performances from local artists and was held to bring the city of Richmond together, attendees who sat in the dining space at tables, or those who mingled in the garden.

City of Richmond employee John Scott said it is important to have local

gatherings in the community. He said he had fun and enjoyed the food, garden, an d wonderful music.

Community member Lajuana Decatur says the

festival is classy, vibrant and tastefully representative of the changes that this event is bringing.

People danced on the wooden dance floor in front

of the large mural that depicted a happy community.

Contact Rodney Woodson at rwoodson. advocate@gmail.com.

Budget | ‘Urban factor’ not taken into account ■ FROM: Page 1

to categorical funds, compliance with the main operating budget under the new allocation system and the stress of taking up new initiatives, such as leveling the achievement gap.

The new model allocates only the revenues each college generates based on the number of Full-Time Equivalent Students (FTES) in attendance. An allocation system based solely on FTES ultimately translates to “smaller schools get less and larger schools get more,” Hernandez said.

“The new formula creates tremendous hardship on the college,” President McKinley Williams said.

“This year, it’s not going to be business as usual. We may not be able to maintain our past success.”

The president has set the goal to serve 6,346 FTES, the exact number the state is anticipated to fund according to the new budget proposal.

“We’re working under a cap,” Hernandez said. “Even if we could bring in more students, we would not get the funding to serve them.”

Two prospective solutions

are cutting costs or increasing revenues. Ideally, it is the college’s goal to accomplish both without removing sections or staff, Director of Business Services Mariles Magalog said.

The district has been talking to colleges and studying “historical financial examples” to further refine the monetary assumptions outlined in the budget report, Breza said. The assumptions are subject to alteration after an official budget has been signed.

“When the state budget is finally adopted, we will have the opportunity to make revisions throughout the year,” Breza said.

In the worst-case scenario, the college would be forced to make mid-year cuts, Williams said, something that he and the rest of administration are very reluctant to do.

There may be a window of opportunity to see the budget passed in early October, though it seems more probable that a budget will not be declared until the state election in November, Kindred Murillo, vice chancellor of districtwide administrative

services, said.

In the meantime, the district has been getting by on reserves; however, the $28 million that were saved are projected to last only two months, she said.

One flaw of the proposal, Hernandez said, lies in the district office and districtwide assessments, which claim $6.7 million of the college’s funds. The money allocated to the office and the districtwide services they provide to the colleges totals $33.7 million, which would not be a problem if CCC had a main operating budget larger than $29.8 million.

“We’ve been put in a situation where we cannot pick and choose,” he said. “We’re given services they think we need to the tune of $6.7 million.”

According to Murillo, the services provided through the district assessments are cheaper on a centralized basis and would prove more costly for each college to have individual systems. Such services include information technology, human resources and Police Services.

In the assessment, the district attempts to be consistent

and fair to all colleges and students, she said. However, underlying factors unique to certain schools are not taken into account.

Hernandez said that the new budget proposal assumes all students entering are on the same academic level, which is not the case, being that the college serves many under-prepared students as a direct result of an “urban factor.”

Getting new students “up to speed” would require more support systems, but, since the proposal does not acknowledge this factor, the college does not have the funding to do so, he said.

“Our student population is the most at risk and the most challenging to work with,” Magalog said. “Students in the area are the least prepared to tackle college.”

West County is home to a demographically diverse student population, she said, in which many families do not speak English as their original language and have never had a family member go to college.

West County also has the highest crime rate and lowest high school test scores in

the county, she said. As well, the city of San Pablo has the lowest per capita income.

“The college has to spend more time, energy and resources on outreach,” Magalog said. “We then have to help the newly acquired students because they are not quite ready for college.”

Other problems facing CCC students may include working full-time to pay bills, raising a child, or even merely getting to the campus, as they have to travel through “bad neighborhoods” in an area with a high crime rate, she said.

Community colleges pressed to find other mechanisms for receiving funding are encouraged to petition for more grants, Murillo said.

The college administration has been given an account of district expenses and the allocation of funds necessary for operation under the assessment. The information is currently undergoing analysis to ensure that the college will get the most out of its funds, Williams said.

Contact Cody McFarland at cmcfarland. advocate@gmail.com.

— Cassidy Gooding

Correction

Switch | Snack bar offers quick concessions

In the “Newsline” section on page three of the Sept.

15 issue, there is one correction.

It states that the Career Information Day on Sept. 29 welcomes students who are looking for jobs.

The representatives that will be in attendance from the Rotary Club are not hiring or recruiting for jobs.

The event is providing information only.

The Advocate regrets this error.

“They both have different time schedules since the Express Café is only open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and both provide different menus.”

Culinary arts Chairman Nader Sharkes said he came up with the idea and the name when he saw the college switchboard being removed from the kiosk’s current area in August. Since the Three Seasons Restaurant is closed Mondays and Fridays,

■ FROM: Page 1

Switch is an additional way to have the food available for those in need of a meal.

“I didn’t want this place to go to waste and collect dust,” Sharkes said. Oftentimes Express Café customers would interrupt his lectures given during class time in the restaurant.

He instantly thought about asking to use the booth to offer food outside of the restaurant’s normal hours. He was given approval and started working with Buildings

and Grounds Manager Bruce King to remodel the area.

Switch was running by the first week of September.

Culinary arts student Paulette Barns said Switch was a smart idea for those stuck on campus all day.

“My classmates and I used to not be able to get any food because we don’t have much time in between classes,” student Dora Chacon said.

“This is going to be a good thing since it’s right here in (the AA) building.”

Chairs and tables are located around the area to give students and staff a place to eat and chat. “I just wanted to give it a little bit of an atmosphere,” Sharkes said.

With more people acknowledging that Switch is open and spreading the word, business has started to see a steady rise, Barns said.

Contact Natalie Estrada at nestrada. advocate@gmail.com.

A closer look Switch updates its menu daily. Coffee and tea are served everyday. It is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 3 to 6 p.m.

Hours of operation on Friday are 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

CAMPUS BEAT

Comics induce laughs

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

5

IN THE MOMENT

Student stand-up act enthralls audience

By Hilberth Ibarra STAFF WRITER

Laughs, jokes and lots of comedy were the ingredients that were mixed together to create the Stand Up Comedy Show on Friday night in the John and Jean Knox Performing Arts Center.

A total of seven student comedians participated with the shared goal of making the almost 200 people in the audience laugh and have a good time.

The audience was diverse, including children and their parents, as well as high school and college students. The comedians presented all different types of comedy, including improvisation, monologues and one-liners, to entertain the audience.

The audience had different reactions.

What was funny for one person was not necessarily funny to the next. However, there was something for everybody and there was one common factor — laughter.

Spectator Sam Soto said, “It’s my first time. It was good and I enjoyed it. I had a few laughs. I like the stand up, they had some good guys in there, some good jokes, some good one-liners.”

Miranda Romero, another member of the audience, agreed that the show was very funny and that the comedians had good jokes and a lot of energy.

Even though the show ran for just over an hour, it took months of hard work and preparation. Drama professor Kathryn McCarty

LAMAR JAMES / THE ADVOCATE

Acting it out — Students Kelvin Machekano (left) and Gaspar Bernal play a comedic improvisational acting game called “freeze” on Friday in the Knox Center. Student comedians played and acted in a variety of games and skits. explained that it is not just getting up in front of an audience and telling a joke, but that the students had to write their material, edit it, memorize it and practice it until they could deliver the jokes flawlessly. Comedian Gaspar Bernal agreed and added, “I spent months preparing.”

To McCarty, the organizer of the event, the Stand Up Comedy Show is about more than just jokes; it is about making an impact.

“Comedy is the key to changing lives — it’s all about gaining perspective and knowing that you are going to make it through. It’s about taking life’s problems and changing the perspective because you can either let those things get you down or you can figure out how to get past them,” she said.

McCarty maintains an open invitation for anyone who wants to participate. All a student needs to do is sign-up for Drama 230,

which is an open-ended class, before being able to participate in the next performance in November. According to the participators this semester, it may be the most fun you will ever have.

As Bernal said, “I love it. It is my favorite thing in the whole semester.”

Contact Hilberth Ibarra at advocate@gmail.com.

hibarra.

Evaluation process receives refinement New forms help faculty improve

By Sam Attal

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

After outdated criteria were used to assess district faculty members for the past 17 years, a new evaluation system and questionnaire have modified the Contra Costa Community College District employee evaluation process.

On July 1, the United Faculty (UF), the union that represents the district’s faculty members, introduced a set of updated forms to its faculty evaluation process, UF President Jeffrey Michels said.

The forms consist of peer evaluations and separate evaluations filled out by students to give feedback to the college about its

employees’ performances.

“The whole idea is to get good feedback from your colleagues and students so you can become a better teacher,” Michels said. “(The forms are) not wildly (different) but we think they’re better.”

The results from the forms are used in the decisions made to rehire part-time faculty members who are evaluated in their first, fourth and seventh semesters as well as every sixth semester thereafter.

The assessment also applies to probationary faculty members who are seeking to establish tenure.

Tenured faculty members, who are evaluated less often than part-time or probationary members, also go through the process every three years to assure that they are providing quality performance for the college, Liberal Arts Division Dean Helen Kalkstein said.

“Any organization needs to

evaluate itself to make sure it is meeting standards (and) to provide support if something is lacking,” she said.

Though the forms have been used for quite some time, they presented confusing questions and an awkward rating system, as they have not been updated in 17 years, Michels said.

For example, the older forms questioned students if their instructors began class on time, but gave the option to answer with a rating system asking how much they agreed. These types of questions require answers such as “rarely” or “always” rather than a qualitative rating system that the district used before, UF Vice President Glenn Appell said.

“We were very unhappy with the (old) process,” he said.

Appell said the forms presented a number of “stupid” questions as

well.

He said he also questioned why the highest overall rating a faculty member could receive was “exceeds standards” when the standards were not even outlined.

The new forms ask some of the same questions as before, only rewording them to be easily understood, Kalkstein said. When creating the new forms, UF and faculty members worked together to create simpler questions with ESL students and those lacking English skills in mind, Kalkstein said.

“Everybody really cared that these new evaluations helped provide feedback to faculty,” she said.

“Students will have a better understanding of what they are asked.”

Faculty members in noninstructional positions also had their forms remodeled, Michels said. Non-instructional faculty have peers that evaluate members

in the workplace.

The whole process of changing the evaluation forms was introduced in 2008 when Michels and the other UF board members began working alongside faculty members to create a better set of questions and a new rating system. “(The old evaluation system) was helpful to us over the years.

It’s just better now,” Kalkstein said.

“I felt it was time for some change.

We should always be looking back and fixing things.”

After two years of collaboration, negotiation between the district and UF and some collective bargaining, the changes were finally agreed on, Michels said.

“The whole evaluation process was complicated,” he said. “The new forms are way clearer.”

Contact Sam Attal at sattal. advocate@gmail.com.

Meeting raises awareness for threatened native owls

By Lamar James ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Awareness was brought to the Center for Science Excellence on Friday, increasing attention to the decreasing numbers in the population of burrowing owls in the Bay Area.

The lecture was facilitated by the founder and director of the Burrowing Owl Conservation Network Scott Artis in PS-113, and illustrated the dangers the burrowing owl population of the Bay Area are up against due to land development and other man-made dangers the small animals face.

“This issue came to me from watching and observing the burrowing owl,” Artis said. “So many owls are being displaced from their homes and are literally suffering to death because their ecosystem is being disputed due to new land development throughout the Bay Area.”

Artis said there is a large burrowing owl population in Antioch and, because large corporations are buying the land and building on it, the burrowing owls are forced to find other homes and means of food. This is only the beginning, and developers know they are destroying ecosystems and are going far to cover up the damage they have caused, Artis said.

He said, “They are hiding the burrows so that the owls will not come back to the same area.”

For many people, these small animals have come to be known as pests, but like any other thing in society, they

serve a purpose and are very peaceful in observation, Artis said.

“They are taking extreme measures to make sure that the owls will not come back, and in many places they have not even started work, but the owls are still being pushed away from their homes,” Artis said.

Artis said the owl population declined by 50 percent from the 1980s to 1993, and since 1993, the owl population has declined another 23 percent.

He said with those numbers, it will not be long before the burrowing owl will be placed on the endangered species list.

“If we continue to let this go on, our great-grandchildren may not get the chance to experience the burrowing owl,” Artis said.

Artis said he has contacted the Department of Fish and Game, but has gotten little feedback from the organization that was created to fight for causes identical to the one he is advocating for.

Artis said since the burrowing owls are being displaced, they will find other places to gather shelter and food.

“We are seeing that since the burrowing owls no longer have fields to live in, they are moving closer to residential areas, and we can see why some would say they are becoming somewhat of a pest.”

Artis said scientists are studying the effects the displacing has had on the owls’ behavior.

“There is no drastic change in behavior. The only thing we are seeing is when the owls go to migrate, a large

number (of them are) not returning,” he said.

He said he has noticed the burrowing owls that are in more rural habitats are less human-friendly, but the owls that are in residential areas will be more accepting to human interaction.

Artis said, “A human can get within 30 feet to the owls that are in a more natural habitat, but you can come within 5 feet of a burrowing owl in a residential area before it flies away.”

“This is all volunteer work for (Artis). He has a regular job in addition to this,” Burrowing Owl Conservation Network member Nancy Thorn said.

Thorn said we all have to do our part to keep the animals alive for generations to come.

She said, “We have to get more people interested in the sciences so that people will know how to deal with problems such as this one.”

Thorn said the information that was shared in the presentation might be the information needed to spark an idea to help preserve the habitat and the lives of the burrowing owls who call the Bay Area their home.

Student Kristen Bunting said she has seen burrowing owls and would like “a better sense” of what they are facing, along with solutions to the suffering that they have endured throughout the process of land development.

“This sheds a new light on the burrowing owls and the things they face on a day-to-day basis,” Bunting said.

Contact Lamar James at ljames. advocate@gmail.com.

LAMAR JAMES / THE ADVOCATE

Giving a hoot — Scott Artis, founder and director of the Burrowing Owl Conservation Network, speaks to students about what they can do to help the local burrowing owl population during a Center for Science Excellence seminar in PS-132 on Friday.

6 THE ADVOCATE

SPORTS

l WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010

Volleyball Preview | 2010

New volleyball squad seeks to change losing reputation

PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE

Team enters season on clean slate with a new coach and a group of new players

Coach profile

Shrieve

Coach Zachary Shrieve was hired on Aug. 16 to lead Contra Costa College’s volleyball program. He previously coached the team for two seasons in 1997 and 1998, leading the Comets to a 13-22 record. Now, he looks to turn the program around with a group of new players.

Roster 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 13 14 22

Taletia Williams Lynn Iosua Lai Saechao Jackie Saephanh Melanie Raquel Claudia Sanchez Lyai Saeteurn Jazmine Mendoza Shayla Farinas Rachael Atienza Anamaria Velasquez

middle blocker outside hitter outside hitter outside hitter outside hitter outside hitter outside hitter setter setter middle blocker middle blocker

freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman freshman

Last season by the numbers Overall record 1-15 Conference record 1-15 Conference finish ninth

Key games

Contra Costa College

VS.

College of Alameda

By Dariush Azmoudeh ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Contra Costa College volleyball team prepares for a fresh start with an all freshmen squad under the instruction of one of the college’s past coaches.

After former coach Azure’D Nunley left the volleyball program over the summer, Zachary Shrieve returned to the college to command the team he previously led a 13-22 overall record as volleyball coach.

The returning volleyball coach used the phrase “happiness is scrappiness,” to describe the theme and approach that the Comets will take this season.

“We need to pass, scrap and communicate. We need to be that team that goes for every ball,” Shrieve said.

The team’s strength resides in the ability of its players to be “scrappy,” Shrieve said, a term used to describe their determination to fight for every ball, not allowing it to hit the ground. This style of playing from the floor will counteract with the team’s lack of height, he said.

“We’re not big,” Shrieve said. “We have got to work from the floor.”

The team’s two tallest players stand at 5 feet 6 inches, with a majority of them at 5 feet 3 inches or shorter.

The team looks to use the 6-2 offense, a strategy in which there are six hitters and two setters, with a perimeter defense spread in the back.

The Comets’ offseason did not include much practice, which only began when Shrieve was hired in mid-August. The team also had to take a week off due to the floor in the Gymnasium being refinished.

Shrieve said that he feels the team’s conditioning is “still getting there.”

Despite the lack of practice, outside hitter Melanie Raquel said that the team’s training has been running smoothly.

“So far, so good,” she said. “We’re doing pretty well, despite there was no training during the summer and not much in the fall.”

Raquel is one of the team’s most experienced players, having played volleyball since the fifth grade, as well as on her high school varsity team.

“We have a few experienced players,” Shayla Farinas, Comet setter said.

“Hopefully the experienced players will help the newcomers and make it easier (for them).”

The squad totals 11 players, all of whom are freshmen varying from little to much experience.

“We’re going to work hard and get better,” Shrieve said. “My goal is for each girl to individually improve and get better as a team.”

First time player and Comet middle blocker Rachael Atienza said she joined the team because of a teammate and just simply wants to have fun. She said that everyone on the team has been getting along quite well.

“We don’t get mad,” she said. “We encourage each other.”

The Comets have already played two scrimmages, against College of Marin and College of the Redwoods, and their first Bay Valley Conference game was a loss against Napa Valley College Friday night.

The Comets’ current record is 0-1 overall and in the BVC. “(Our goal is) to play together, hopefully win a few games and not be the losing squad that people expect us to be,” Farinas said.

The team’s defense has shown improvement compared to the previous year, but the Comets still need to improve on their offensive ability.

“We need to improve in our passing and serving. We need to pass very well in order to compete,” Shrieve said.

He said the team’s offense will depend on how well they can pass, which will help them get the ball to the middle for the quick set up and take advantage of the opponents’ lack of blocking.

“We definitely need to improve on our communication, but that comes with bonding as the weeks goes by,” Raquel said.

Communication has been a reoccurring problem for the volleyball team, especially last year when its record stood at 1-15, both overall and in the BVC. Shrieve said their communication is getting better, along with their teamwork.

“We’re going to play really hard and improve from the first day to the last,” he said.

Contact Dariush Azmoudeh dazmoudeh.advocate@gmail.com.

Sept. 17 vs. Napa Valley 25-13, 25-9, 25-19 L Today vs. Laney 6 p.m.

Friday vs. Alameda 6 p.m.

Bye Oct. 1 vs. Marin 6 p.m.

Oct. 6 vs. Solano 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 8 at Mendocino 6 p.m.

Oct. 13 at Yuba 6 p.m.

Oct. 15 vs. Los Medanos 6 p.m.

Oct. 20 at Napa Valley 6 p.m.

Oct. 22 at Laney 6 p.m.

Oct. 27 vs. Alameda 6 p.m.

Bye Nov. 3 at Marin 6 p.m.

Nov. 5 at Solano 6 p.m.

Nov. 10 vs. Mendocino 6 p.m.

Nov. 12 vs. Yuba 6 p.m.

Nov. 16 at Los Medanos 6 p.m.

at

Key players

Outside hitter Melanie Raquel brings experience as well as spunkiness to the Comets.

Freshman Mendoza seeks to bring high energy and chemistry to the young CCC squad.

Farinas

Mendoza

With the ability to block, freshman Lynn Iosua looks to have a successful season for CCC.

Raquel

Iosua

Home: Friday, Oct. 27, 6 p.m.

Despite posting losing records over the past four seasons, the Comets have enjoyed some success against the Cougars as they defeated the College of Alameda three times in four meetings during the 2008 and 2009 seasons. CCC hopes to sweep the series against the Cougars this season.

Schedule

Setter Shayla Farinas brings leadership to the squad as a former Comet basketball player.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

7

Football Preview | 2010

Schedule Sept. 11 vs. Monterey Peninsula 32-18 W Sept. 17 at Diablo Valley 27-20 L Saturday vs. Los Medanos 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Mendocino 1 p.m.

Oct. 9 vs. Gavilan 1 p.m.

Oct. 16 vs. Redwoods 1 p.m.

Oct. 23 at American River 1 p.m.

Oct. 30 vs. Solano 1 p.m.

Nov. 6 at Shasta 5 p.m.

Nov. 13 at Yuba 1 p.m.

Last season by the numbers Overall record 1-9 Conference record 0-4 Conference finish fifth

Coach Carter hopes to erase squad’s ugly past, program expecting positive change

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

With a new coach, a strong recruiting class and a newfound hunger to win, the Contra Costa College football team looks eager to change its reputation and improve on last season’s 1-9 record.

Alonzo Carter enters his first season as coach with hopes of changing the reputation of the football program and moving his players on to four-year colleges.

“My biggest goal is for 95 percent of my sophomores to graduate this (upcoming) spring,” Carter said. “I’m trying to move these kids to four-year schools, and if I can mesh the winning with that it would be good.”

The former McClymonds and Berkeley high school coach took over the Comets coaching position in January, replacing interim coach David Johnson.

When first coming to CCC, Carter said he wanted to reshape, rejuvenate and put life back into a football program that has not claimed first place in the Bay Valley Conference for 10 years.

“I want to shake off last season’s skeletons and try to move this team forward,” Carter said. “I’m selling these kids a new Comet football era and I’m challenging them to create a new history.”

History is something that the Comets want to move on from after suffering a gloomy 2009 season when they managed only one win.

CCC was blown out in nearly every game last year as it struggled to establish any offensive control, forcing the defense to stay on the field for the majority of the games.

“Last year wasn’t the best of times,” sophomore linebacker Josh Richardson said. “Obviously we had a bad record but (we didn’t play as) a team. Everybody played as individuals.”

Chemistry and discipline also played huge factors in CCC’s one-win season last year as many players seemed apathetic toward their responsibilities, as was witnessed by players giving up during several games when trailing by a large margin.

“I knew it would be a tough challenge to come here to change the team,” Carter said. “One of the advantages I have is that I was going to school here while last

Assistant coaches

season’s football team would be practicing so I got to see the team’s work ethic and practice preparation before I actually got the job.”

Carter hit the offseason well by reeling in several freshmen recruits and bringing back many sophomore players to help deliver a winning spirit to the squad.

“I have three players who played on the 0-10 team (in 2008) who want to come out and win,” Carter said. “All the sophomores have accepted the challenge I offered them in changing this program and have embraced the freshman well.”

Players see the change that Carter has brought to the Comets as they are excited on what the season holds for them.

“Coach McDermott and coach Johnson did not demand perfection from us and gave us (little) discipline. Everything was chaotic,” sophomore linebacker Noah Coogler (who played in the 0-10 season in 2008) said. “With coach Carter, he actually demands perfection and discipline from us and he also is strict on us during practice.”

“He definitely changed the work ethic of this team,” freshman defensive back Alonzo Cudjo said. “We have to play hard and stay hungry if we want to win.”

The Comets responded well to Carter’s demands as they won their first game of the season 32-18 against Monterey Peninsula College on Sept. 11.

Many players on the young squad said that their main goal is to win the BVC championship and make it to a bowl game.

“If we can compete at a high level, we can play more than 10 games this year,” freshman quarterback Jeffery Anderson said. “I feel that once we are at our apex we will be unstoppable.”

Despite losing Friday’s game against Diablo Valley College 27-20, the Comets continue to have their heads held high and look to improve during the course of the season.

“Anything can happen in a season so you have to be prepared for any challenge,” Carter said. “Every team wants to be undefeated but I just want to win the conference and be in the hunt for a bowl game.”

Contact Malcolm Lastra at mlastra. advocate@gmail.com.

Key players

Freshman quarterback displays leadership and throwing power as he begins his CCC career.

Coogler

The sophomore former receiver brings size and speed to his new position at defensive end.

Anderson

Aumua

Green First-year running back brings toughness and power to the Comets’ running game.

Coach Alonzo Carter enters his first year as coach of the Comets with hopes of changing the program’s losing reputation. Carter brings a winning mentality to CCC and he led the Comets to their first win in their season opener.

Coogler brings solid tackling and ball hawking skills to the Comets as a firstyear defensive back.

George Pye Keith Higgins Ondine Kilker Marcus Webb

Damon Nails Charles Smith Alfonzo Tucker Jason Walton

Carter

CCC looks forward to new beginnings

Coach’s profile

Vince Bordelon Anthony Jackson Scott Glicsberg Courtney Anderson

Roster 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 34 35 38 40 41 42 44 45 46 47 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 58 59 61 62 69 79 80 81 82 83 85 86 88 90 91 93 94 95 98 99

Najee Lovett wide receiver freshman Jordan Morrow wide receiver freshman Demarion Keyes quarterback sophomore Cameron Fuller defensive back sophomore Kenneth Green wide receiver sophomore Cloridion Kennedy defensive back freshman Devin Brown defensive back freshman Keenan Coogler defensive back freshman Isaac Goins wide receiver freshman Anthony Harrold-Taylor defensive back freshman Noah Coogler linebacker sophomore Kyle Tobler kicker/quarterback freshman Kevin Aguirre wide receiver freshman Anthony Beaver defensive back freshman James Zeigler defensive back sophomore Jeffery Anderson quarterback freshman Antoine Williams wide receiver freshman Niko Aumua defensive end sophomore Quntarius Moultrie defensive back freshman Jovontae Johnson defensive back freshman Arthur Boado linebacker freshman William Hartfield- Peoples running back sophomore Keon Burden fullback sophomore Sherard Allen running back sophomore Carl Yates running back freshman Leroy Green running back freshman Phillip Henderson defensive back freshman Keith Bryant running back sophomore Adrian Pyles defensive back freshman Jamier Malone linebacker freshman Tate Mustin running back freshman Anthony Arguello linebacker freshman James Hines running back freshman Ori Onn kicker/punter freshman Alonzo Cudjo defensive back freshman Javarri Fifer defensive back freshman Donald Hogan linebacker sophomore Emmanuel Reed running back sophomore Reggie Glover tight end freshman Stephon Cox-Gilmore linebacker sophomore Jonathan Shipley linebacker freshman Marcelo Magdaleno-Medina linebacker sophomore Hudari Murray Jr. offensive line freshman Adewale Kehinde linebacker sophomore Antoine Perkins defensive line freshman Mark Alvarado offensive line freshman Marcus McClarty offensive line freshman Jerry Smith defensive end freshman Floyd Pellom defensive line freshman Husani Burton linebacker freshman Lloyd Pellom offensive line freshman Edgar Vega offensive line sophomore Juan Hernandez offensive line sophomore Justin Morrow defensive line sophomore DeAndre Ward offensive line freshman Kevin Hal tight end freshman Michael Glover wide receiver freshman Tyler Thomas wide receiver freshman Jose Munguia kicker freshman Jeffery Deavers tight end freshman Octavius Jackson linebacker freshman Kenyon Walden offensive line freshman Michael Montgomery defensive line sophomore Alexander Hamilton defensive end freshman Carlos Garcia-Navarrete defensive line freshman Chukwueb Denchukwu defensive line sophomore Jamaal White defensive line sophomore Kameuren Spencer defensive line freshman Cardelleous Snell defensive line freshman

8 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010

Speaker clarifies history

CAMPUS BEAT

Debater’s sister decries movie changes

By Faythe Del Rosario STAFF ILLUSTRATOR

Students and various members of the community filled most of the seats of LA100 during a showing of the documentary, “The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College” held on Thursday.

Eleanor Boswell-Raine, daughter of the late debater Hamilton Boswell, was the guest speaker at the occasion for the open forum.

Several students were at the event for extra credit for their speech classes.

The Great Debaters was an AfricanAmerican debate team from Wiley College in Marshall, Texas that won almost all of its debate battles during the 1930s. The group toured the country competing against other debate teams at the collegiate level.

This is not the first time the documentary has been played at the college. Speech department Chairwoman Connie Anderson has arranged this event with Assistant Director Julie La Brincha three times in the past three years.

The speech and debate team hosts several of these events on campus every year, Dr. Anderson said.

Some people were a bit confused because they believed the film was the motion picture that starred actor Denzel Washington that was produced in 2007.

The documentary talks about the lives of the debate team from Wiley College and what happened during their tours as a team.

LAMAR JAMES / THE ADVOCATE

A family affair — Eleanor Boswell-Raine, daughter of one of the students featured in “The Real Great Debaters” documentary, speaks about how powerful communication is after the presentation of the film in LA-100 on Thursday.

The Hollywood movie was historically incorrect so Boswell-Raine, family members of the original Wiley College debate team, and AMC Films believed that people should know the accurate nature of the debaters.

The documentary captures the essence of the debate team’s achievements and personality through several people speaking on the debaters’ behalves.

Boswell-Raine said, “When I saw the movie, I was in tears because I knew how they changed the story.” The guest speaker goes to these events telling the true story of the debaters because she believes it is beneficial to the students.

“I want young people to get a piece of

history that they wouldn’t get in textbooks,” she said.

“Eleanor brought the movie to us, so the real story of the Great Debaters would be told,” Anderson said. “It’s such a great message and we wanted everyone to know about it.”

During a question and answer session with the guest speaker, CCC alumnus Ray Muhammad said, “We have to protect African-American history.”

Students had a very positive experience watching the documentary.

Student Isis Hao said, “The most important thing I walked away with is that you can make something of yourself.”

Dr. Anderson said Hollywood films and television shows want to captivate viewers’ attention.

Those productions do not necessarily follow history, so people should dig around and research for facts and details if they want to know the truth for themselves, she said.

Hao said she understands that history is portrayed differently in film from taking a film appreciation class. “The film wasn’t surprisingly different. People shouldn’t go around thinking movies are literal because they’re not,” she said.

Contact Faythe Del Rosario at frosario. advocate@gmail.com.

Administration vows to close discrepancies Bridging gaps boosts success

By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR

At the beginning of the fall semester, the district made closing the college achievement gap a priority for the 2010-11 school year in an effort to boost students’ success.

“The college achievement gap is about giving everyone an equal chance,” Academic Senate President Richard Akers said. “(The college) is trying to eliminate bias and achieve greater equity for students across the board.”

Closing the college achievement gap involves looking at higher-level achievers and lower-level achievers from different subsets of the student population, Vice President Carol Maga said.

Contra Costa College currently has the smallest gap in college achievement out of the three schools in the district, and the main reason behind that is the college’s

diversity, Dr. Akers said.

President McKinley Williams said the college wants to narrow the gap in all areas, not just in the sphere of ethnicity, but also with gender and disciplines.

“We don’t want to allow certain groups to be successful; we want all groups to be successful, regardless of gender, age, discipline or ethnicity,” Williams said.

Before finding any concrete remedies, the college wants to extensively look over the data regarding each student group’s achievement level and understand the magnitude of the problem, Maga said.

The data collected includes retention rates, final grades, persistence, transfer statistics, degrees and certificates.

Senior Dean of Research and Planning Tim Clow said compared to other colleges, CCC is doing well, but there are still achievement gaps to address, and the college will have a more accurate look at those gaps by late October.

At the moment, the college is brainstorming ideas on how to close the gap, which include good learning support, comprehensive

student services, financial aid, tive. “(The college achievement gap) and programs like the Center for Science Excellence that develop has to do with equal access, and that is a part communities and “The college achievement of (the college’s) miscohorts to comfort and gap is about giving everyone sion statehelp stument,” Dr. an equal chance.” dents, Maga Clow said. said.

“Every stuRichard Akers, “ T h e dent should Academic Senate president feel welchanges (I make in this come. The office) are subtle, but important,” college has the responsibility to Akers said. “I take everything that provide an environment for suctouches my desk and ask, ‘how cess.”

CCC has an open door policy, does this affect the achievement gap?’” and if the college opens the door Scheduling is one example of for students and does not make change helping the gap. sure they leave with the ability to Akers said the smallest schedule obtain a job or attend a four-year change of a class could affect a university, then it is not doing a whole group of students, depend- satisfactory job, Williams said. ing on their personal schedules, Every college staffer needs to and making smarter decisions in extend a hand, make the campus a that process could provide other- comfortable place for learning, and wise disadvantaged students with create an atmosphere where stuthe classes they need. dents are not oppressed for being Using his approach, Akers said who they are, Clow said. staff could help close the achieve“Our service area is very diverse ment gap by modifying regular with many ethnicities, so we had to procedures with the gap in perspec- develop ways to assist our minori-

ties in order for them to stay in school,” Williams said.

Some programs already in place that help close the achievement gap are the Puente Program, which helps to assist Latin-Americans, and the Umoja Learning Village, which caters to African-Americans.

Williams said one possible solution for closing the gap would be developing a better orientation for students and creating a program similar to EOPS for all students.

Many students take classes without any help from a counselor and only listen to their friends, and then they find out they took classes they did not need, he said.

He added that developing a program modeled after EOPS could help students by mandating them to see a counselor, create an educational plan, and receive a proper referral to get help if they are having difficulty.

Maga said funding for such programs could come from a grant that focuses on a particular population of the college that needs help.

Contact Alexandra Waite at awaite.advocate@gmail.com.

‘Noodletools’ enlighten Bibliography questions answered for students

By Cary Gooding STAFF WRITER

professional office feel. The room was located in a sealed-off section of the Library, cutting out noise and the distraction of other people. Students often forget the resources CCC has to offer them, and these workshops serve as a reminder.

After the lecture, CCC student Eugene Gaines said he still needed a bit of help on how to work it, but would definitely be using Noodletools in the future. He had no idea CCC offered programs like this, especially ones free of charge. As soon as he figures out all the nooks and crannies of the software, he’s going to show his friends in need how to use it, too, he said.

Student Erick Chidichon hopes he is never in a situation where he would need to write a bibliography, but if he finds himself in need of one, he’s going to turn to Noodletools.

He said he was impressed by how simple the program made it, and if he ever has a friend struggling with a bibliography, he won’t hesitate to introduce him or her to Noodletools.

Flum said she was a user of Noodletools, which was created by other librarians. Unlike other programs, it was not created for profit, but just to help people out. She’s passionate about spreading the word about Noodletools, which she thinks is a great system, and doesn’t want the $300 subscription fee the college paid to go to waste.

There are plenty of other workshops like this one available in the future. The seminars cover subjects like using PowerPoint, using computers and the library website, searching online databases and others. A list of the workshops is available on the CCC website, www.contracosta.edu.

Students who have trouble writing bibliographies and creating effective note cards were thrown a life preserver in the form of a workshop hosted in the Library last week.

The helpful seminar, a segment called “Noodletools,” was held on Thursday.

The lecture was led by Judith Flum, a Contra Costa College librarian and user of Noodletools.

Noodletools is a program that helps track and organize resources and create more accurate works cited lists.

It has tools such as citation builder, note card creator and finalist creator. The program is a great help when writing bibliographies, and it turns a once arduous task into an easy process.

Access to Noodletools is available to all CCC students. All students have to do is sign up on campus, and it’s completely free.

Flum kept the lecture light and concise. She led the 18 students in attendance through the process of making a bibliography with Noodletools.

She demonstrated the simplicity of the program with her walk through and many examples of her own work. The workshop was easy to follow and Flum kept it interesting by sprinkling in jokes every now and then.

CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE The room the lecture was held in had excellent Using her noodle — Librarian Judy Flum talks to students on the imporaccommodations, including an up-to-date comtance of creating bibliographies during the “Noodletools” workshop in Contact Cary Gooding at csgooding. puter for each student who attended to use, and the Library and Learning Resource Center computer lab on Thursday. a big projection screen that gave the workshop a advocate@gmail.com.

CAMPUS BEAT

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

9

Library seminar trains students Workshop goes over Internet searching

LAMAR JAMES / THE ADVOCATE

Close observation — Student Guadalupe Gandara pays close attention to the Powerpoint presentation during the computer introduction workshop in the Library and Learning Resource Center on Sept. 15.

lion results, while a search in EBSCO gave only 101.

Kuo spoke of shady dealings between companies as a further admonition against using Google.

“If you see companies there, that is not a

By Cheuk Ko STAFF WRITER good sign. If they are on the first page, they paid Google,” he said. Kuo also spoke of the A Computer Comfort for Beginners difference between Internet domains and workshop was held Sept. 15 in the Library how some are more useful than others when and Learning Resource Center for students researching. seeking basic instruction in computer skills.

The workshop was designed to help The workshop was beginning students specifidirected by Librarian but also covered more “If you come across cally, Andrew Kuo for advanced topics such as the use EBSCO, a research strange or outrageous of cookies. based website hosted things (online), check Kuo said that the Library by the Library that stores information about the your sources.” allows students to find individual computer visits, and information to write that deleting or obstructing essays with. cookies erases helpful library Andrew Kuo, Librarian The site teaches information. students the process “Usually I get students of researching a paper needing basic, beginner help, with text and journal searches available, also such as trouble with the mouse or how the giving text citation information, “abstracts” browser works,” he said. and summaries of text. The site also has a More advanced skills are taught when picture search that can be very useful, Kuo students are accustomed to using a comsaid. puter, Kuo said.

The summaries also tell of the author’s “This workshop is for beginner computer authority or credibility. “If you can’t find users, but they were good, they participated,” the authority, don’t use it,” Kuo said. “If you he said. come across strange or outrageous things, “(The workshop) went well, they were check your sources.” library studies students, they were on task,” IPLZ.org is another good research tool in Kuo said. addition to the EBSCO website, Kuo said, More workshops on computer related as “it is useful because (the information) is topics will be hosted in the library throughalready validated by librarians.” out the semester.

Google, while useful for regular searches Contact Cheuk Ko at cko. is not always useful for research, Kuo said.

To give an example, he searched “cell advocate@gmail.com. phones” in Google, turning up over 7 mil-

Departments birth multimedia program Merge prepares for new markets

By Adam Oliver STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

The long anticipated endeavor to establish a multimedia program on campus is finally beginning to materialize with the merging of the media and communication arts program with the previous art department.

The synthesis of the two areas into the fine and media arts department came as a result of years of faculty deliberation and a need to prepare students for careers in the current multimedia job market.

“It’s the way to go in the 21st century,” Liberal Arts Division Dean Helen Kalkstein said. “We need to adapt to change and meet the needs of students.”

With the collision of different media in almost all careers in

the field, “people need to know how all the media interact” to best navigate and succeed in the work force, music department Chairman Wayne Organ said.

Once this knowledge is ascertained, students will proceed to take courses in the specialization of their interest, be it audio, video, graphics, animation or another.

The model for the prospective multimedia program, proposed by media and communication arts professor Ellen Seidler, illustrates a wheel composed of a central hub, or core classes to the program, with spokes branching out to different specialties.

The program would award district-based certificates to students in each specialty, with potential levels for the certificates based on the number of units taken and other criterion, Organ said.

There is thought of making these specialized courses just nine weeks long, allowing for an equal length five-semester year.

“We need to adapt to change and meet the needs of students.”

Helen Kalkstein,

Liberal Arts Division dean

This schedule would let instructors focus in on specific tasks and skills and would also accommodate the often erratic schedules held by many CCC students, he said.

Additionally, all specialized courses would be portfolio-based to provide students with work to distribute to potential employers and evidence of the skills gained in the course.

“In my experience, the certificates aren’t actually as valuable as what people produce,” Seidler said. “In the end, they are going to be judged on what they are able to create.”

However, the extent to which

students will be able to create new and exciting media will be determined greatly by their ability to understand and cooperate with others of different disciplines.

“We are designing a program to enhance collaboration,” Organ said. “We could pool resources, knowledge (and) expertise.”

The first video games were created by the collaborative effort of graphic artists, computer programmers and eventually audio engineers, so there is no telling what cutting edge new art forms could be developed by interdisciplinary cooperation, he continued.

In addition, how one chooses to present one’s body of work is becoming a more and more crucial component to success.

Instead of sending resumés, people are now sending companies links to their websites, a much more “dynamic and interactive” way of displaying one’s work, Seidler said.

A course outlining the essence

of multimedia will be offered in fall 2011 at which time all media and communication arts courses will be converted to media courses. Media 100, Multimedia Basics, will teach students how to communicate across media disciplines and use software such as Maya, Adobe Flash, and Garage Band.

Though many professors are optimistic about the success of the multimedia program, many challenges still lie ahead.

Whether or not the program would be economically feasible in the case of low to moderate enrollment is one of the concerns.

However, the cost of maintaining current technology and software would pose the greatest trouble without an external source of funding, Seidler said.

“I think we’re in a good position to actually get some (funding) if we play our cards right,” she said.

Contact Adam Oliver at aoliver.advocate@gmail.com.

ASU hosts open meet and greet

By George Morin PHOTO EDITOR

The Associated Student Union welcomingly opened the doors of the Fireside Room to students to get a chance to meet them more personally.

Roughly 30 people attended the Meet the ASU and Constitution Day held in the Fireside Room Thursday. The ASU senators began the event with introducing themselves and talking about what the ASU has to offer for students, as well as their individual responsibilities within the ASU. “This being the first time we have held such an event, it was successful for us, being able to fill all of the seats,” ASU President Joseph Camacho said.

ASU director Kelly Ramos said, “We want to give people the chance to meet their senators and be able to put faces to the names of their senators, instead of having faceless entities that you can’t associate with. We’re here for the students and they should know that we are here to help them and listen to any of their suggestions.”

Camacho said, “Our goal for these events is to connect with the students. We want the student body to know who we are and what we’re about, what we’re up to and the important topics that we are discussing at the time, and to keep them informed more than anything.”

Senators and faculty spoke on behalf of the ASU and the benefits of being involved with student government.

“Get involved. Advocacy is very important. You do have a voice, and you do

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Collaboration — ASU senator Devin Sutton (left) talks to student Frank Runninghorse about collaborating on events in the future at the Meet the ASU and Constitution Day in the Fireside Room on Thursday. The ASU plans to organize more events that will allow students and the public to examine the issues that affect them. have the right to use it,” Academic Senate President Richard Akers said.

“Everyone should know that they matter and that their voices are heard. We can come together and get some stuff done for this college,” Vice President of Ambassadors Angela Witside said.

A suggestion box was placed by the entrance of the room for students to write issues on a piece of paper and put it into the box. These would later be looked over by the ASU senators who will discuss them during their meetings, Camacho said.

Pocket Bill of Rights and Constitutions printed in Spanish were given out to students for them to keep. The items were given

out in accordance with Constitution Day to inform students about their rights as an American citizen, Ramos said.

Facebook and other social media sites have been recently used as a way to promote ASU events and ideas openly to the public.

Aside from publicity, the ASU profiles are also there for students to voice their opinions on how they feel about the ASU and events in a way to give feedback to the ASU. The ASU hopes that turning to these social media sites will help reach more people, Camacho said.

Advertisements for Meet the ASU and Constitution Day were put out on Facebook and by word of mouth by senators and

students. The event was also posted on the 2010 Fall Events Calendar that was posted around the campus by the ASU, according to Camacho.

“It’s hard for us to advertise these events with the lack of funds that we have,” he said.

“We can’t afford to make fliers and put them in every classroom. The majority of our ads are either through social media or by word of mouth.”

The ASU hopes to have more of these events. Upcoming events can be checked on www.facebook.com/ASUCCC. Contact George Morin at advocate@gmail.com.

gmorin.

10 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010

SPORTS

Leader inspires growth in athletes Carter serves as positive reinforcement

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

The art of coaching is one that is difficult to master, as a person must be able to take charge and lead others in a positive direction.

The attributes that make a good coach are the ability to be disciplined and stay in the right frame of mind, being responsible for others and a positive influence on players and trainees.

New Contra Costa College football coach Alonzo Carter fits the mold of a strong leader as he uses his “train hard” ethic to guide his players and understudies toward right paths in life.

“You have different things (required) in being a coach,” CCC Athletic Director John Wade told The Advocate when Carter was hired in January.

“You have to change people’s lives (and) make sure they are conducting themselves correctly. You have to have stability and give the students a positive model to look up to. Coach Carter is a model of good behavior.”

Responsibility came to the West Oakland native early when Carter was a single father at the age of 17. Fatherhood, having to work, attending college at Cal State-East Bay and playing football there kept him occupied.

“I didn’t receive a football scholarship when I graduated from McClymonds High,” Carter said. “I was a teenage dad working, going to school and playing football as I wanted to help raise my

SAM ATTAL/ THE ADVOCATE

Tough love — Coach Alonzo Carter provides discipline both on and off the field to help his players grow as individuals and teammates. Carter hopes to bring change to the football team’s attitude. son.”

Carter got his first taste of coaching in 1989 after dropping out of college when he pursued an opportunity to become the main choreographer for Bay Area rapper Stanley Burrell, better known as MC Hammer.

“Working with Hammer made me disciplined, as we had to stay in shape,” Carter said. “(Touring) was like a traveling business. I had to make sure all of the dancers knew their moves and were in attendance. It reminded me of being a coach.”

From touring to dance rehearsals, Carter was required to perfect the dance

moves to meet the high expectations of Hammer.

“My experience with Hammer was a blessing,” Carter said. “It helped me become the person I am today.”

Another experience Carter encountered that helped him become a successful coach was his training with All-Pro Oakland Raider cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha.

Carter met him during Asomugha’s freshman year at UC Berkeley where he trained him until he was drafted in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft. “(My friendship with Nnamdi) is a friendship I’ll

have for life,” Carter said. “I was with him when people hardly knew how to pronounce his name, so seeing him move on to the professional level and succeed is a blessing.”

Carter’s role in both MC Hammer’s and Nnamdi Asomugha’s lives is so significant that both superstars still keep in contact with their former trainer.

Carter’s experience as a leader and trainer helped him gain success as a football coach at both McClymonds and Berkeley high schools.

He led those football squads to a combined record of 8242-3, winning several league

the two previous seasons.

“Coach Carter brings a winning mentality to the team,” linebacker Noah Coogler said. “I can see where he wants us to succeed in the classroom and on the field as he demands excellence from us and we try our best to achieve that.”

Aside from coaching, Carter likes to spend time with his wife and six children, traveling to different places in the world, watching movies, attending live music and sporting events and playing cards with his friends.

Coming from West Oakland, Carter said that being raised in the neighborhood is the sole reason for his effectiveness among his current and former players.

“I’m from where these kids are from and I have been through a lot in my life. I never thought I would become a coach,” he said.

“These kids won’t get pity from me just based off what they have been through, because I believe that anything is possible in life.”

Former McClymonds player Pat Henderson said, “Coach Carter is animated but passionate at the same time as he cares a lot about the kids. He doesn’t care about wins. He makes sure everybody is on track with their lives after football.”

Carter hopes to continue his success coaching and training athletes to the next level in life at CCC. “Don’t expect miracles to happen over night, but Carter will change the face of Contra Costa by teaching these kids discipline,” Bordelon said.

“A lot of coaches don’t give him a lot of credit, but he is a great coach.”

titles and sending 27 players to Division I colleges.

“I’ve known Alonzo for more than 20 years,” Comet assistant football coach and friend Vince Bordelon said.

“He’s always been a caring person and he is about getting kids into college.”

Carter has been able to impact the Comet football team in a number of ways since arriving at CCC last semester.

Making players attend class and study, Carter has provided the positive influence that helped the team win its first game against Contact Malcolm Lastra Monterey Peninsula College, at mlastra.advocate@gmail. after going 0-10 and 1-9 in com.

Coach leaves for remainder of season Zeller takes leave for personal issues Zeller

Five games into the preseason, coach Zeller has decided to leave his coaching position for personal reasons. Due to his leave of absence, women’s soccer coach Nikki Ferguson will take over the men’s squad for the rest of the season.

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR

The men’s and women’s soccer teams at Contra Costa College’s will be sharing a coach for the rest of the season.

After 13 years of coaching the men’s soccer team, Rudy Zeller has decided to take a temporary leave of absence to focus on personal issues, leaving the women’s soccer coach Nikki Ferguson to fill the vacant position.

Zeller broke the news at a team meeting Friday after the Comets 0-0 tie against Chabot College, telling his players that he wouldn’t return to coach for the remainder of the season.

“He made the decision that it was time (to move forward),” Athletic Director John Wade said. “(His decision) wasn’t confirmed until after Friday’s game.”

With Zeller leaving, Wade decided

to give the position to Ferguson, who has been coaching the women’s team.

“At first I thought about naming one of Rudy’s assistant coaches to take the head coaching job,” Wade said.

“However, they had other commitments and couldn’t take on the task. So my next possible candidate for the job was (Ferguson).”

Zeller did not specifically tell anyone his reason for leaving, but said it was for personal issues he had to take care of.

“He is dealing with some personal issues and that is the extent of what I know of his leaving,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson, who enters his second year as the women’s soccer coach, was notified by Wade on Friday that he will be taking over as the new men’s soccer coach.

“It was a shock for the (men’s) team, as well as myself, but the team took it very well,” Ferguson said. “They were very receptive of me coming in and keeping this program moving forward.”

As of press time Zeller was not available for comment.

Under Zeller, CCC began the 2010 season with a record of 1-3-1.

Several players from the men’s soccer team were in disbelief when notified of Zeller’s exit.

“We were so used to having him around and following his direction,” freshman defender Steven Henry said.

“A lot of the guys are surprised that he left, but hopefully coach Ferguson can keep us going on the right path to winning games.”

Also, in Zeller’s absence, volleyball coach Zachary Shrieve will take over his tennis classes for the remainder of the fall semester.

Ferguson notified his women’s squad on Monday morning at practice that he would be coaching both the women’s and men’s soccer teams for the remainder of the season.

Due to Ferguson taking over two coaching positions, four games were rescheduled so that he could be available for both teams.

“My women’s team was OK with me coaching both teams,” Ferguson said. “They were mainly concerned whether it would conflict with any of

their games.”

Since being hired as the men’s soccer coach, Ferguson said that he has no intentions of changing up the team’s current style of play, but that he will utilize some of his own tactics.

“I’m going to be working with Rudy’s assistant coaches and sit down with them to look at the team’s direction,” Ferguson said. “I want them to be aware of my philosophies and have them gel without making a lot of changes.”

Despite having no experience coaching two teams at the college level, Ferguson said he looks forward to what the season brings and is ready to take on the challenge.

“Ultimately both (soccer) programs want to win and put ourselves in the best position to compete,” Ferguson said. “I’m excited about (coaching two teams). It’s going to be a lot of work, but it’s not something that can’t be done.”

Contact Malcolm Lastra at mlastra.advocate@gmail.com.

Team fails to utilize offense in 4-1 defeat two outstanding saves in the first half, she could not stop STAFF WRITER the Rams from scoring three goals. The first half ended Despite showing improve- with a comfortable advanment, the women’s soccer tage for the visitors. team lost 4-1 at a home game The Comets were not against City College of San willing to give up without Francisco on a fight. In the Sept. 15. second half, In the they came ScoreBoard first half of back and Rams 4 the game, played more coach Nikki competitively.

Comets 1 Ferguson Junco made wanted to use seven saves Next game: a stronger in the second Oct.1 at Marin, 3 defense than half, most of p.m. in previous which were games. from one“We tried on-one situato defend a tions, and only little more. We just wanted allowed one goal to be scored. to defend for 45 minutes The Comets were communiand not give up any goals,” cating better and motivating Ferguson said. one another, which increased Even though the goal- their competitiveness. keeper Magaly Junco made “The second half was

By Hilberth Ibarra

much better. We were talking, communicating,” Junco said.

As the Comets played diligently against the Rams, their best competitive efforts paid off when forward Vanessa Johnson found herself in a one-on-one situation with Rams’ goalkeeper Jhosselyn Alvarenga and placed the ball in the net.

At this point, the score was 3-1 for the Rams. The Comets’ hopes of equalizing the game were dashed when the Rams scored again, leaving the final score 4-1.

“We keep on improving and have decreased the amount of scoring on us,” Comet defender Teresa Jimenez said. “(In) the second half it was 1-1, and it was a pretty even game.”

Ferguson was also impressed with the team’s play in the second half.

CHRISTIAN SOTO/ THE ADVOCATE

Fighting for the goal — Defender Teresa Jimenez (left) tries to defend against Rams forward Alex Montano (right) at the soccer field on Sept. 15.

“Overall, I am very happy with our team. If you look at the second half, it was a draw,” he said.

The Comets hope to continue to work hard and improve. With each game

the team gains more “experience and learns how to position themselves on the field, motivate each other and work together as a team,” Junco said.

Ferguson said he believes

that improving their positioning will yield better results in future games.

Contact Hilberth Ibarra at hibarra.advocate@gmail. com.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

11

Comets’ defense holds tie CCC extends slump to four winless games

By Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER

Solid defensive play produced a shutout for the Comets against Chabot College on Friday at home, but offensive hesitation from the home team kept the game in a scoreless draw.

Comets’ defender Ryan Gordan, who was trailing on the play, ran from behind and deflected a first half shot by Chabot’s forward Anthony Monica. The previous action at the goal brought Comets’ goalkeeper Kevin Esquivel out of position, leaving a clear lane for a Chabot score, which would have been the difference in the game if not for Gordan.

The rest of the squad followed their teammate’s lead. They continued to play stout defense as Chabot kept up the offensive intensity.

The visitors managed to keep the Comets backed up defensively, yet a great physical defense held the Gladiators to only three shot attempts ScoreBoard in the first half.

But Chabot Comets 0 brought their Gladiators 0 defense as well, holding Contra Next game: Costa College to Friday vs. only one first half Marin, 4 p.m. shot attempt. The defensive struggle and rough play began to take a toll on the players late in the first half as Comet defender Alex Duenas

QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE

Clear it out — Defender Juan Acosta (left) clears the ball away from Chabot College striker Abrego Christian (middle) at the soccer field on Friday. The Comets battled to a 0-0 draw against the Gladiators. went to the turf with a minor knee injury.

He would later return to the game in the second half.

Gladiators’ defender Carlos Padilla knocked down CCC striker Daniel Ramirez while he was driving towards the goal.

Padilla was given a yellow card for the hard push and the linesman had to keep the two players apart from one another as tempers flared.

Comet coach Rudy Zeller said that they were coming into this game poised to break their losing streak. They were in a position to do so with the score even at the half.

“We’re playing better defense,” said

Comets’ defender Steven Henry. “We prepared hard this week.”

Their preparation was evident on the defensive end as the Comets only allowed five total shot attempts for the entire game.

Later in the second half, it looked as if Chabot began to show fatigue as the Comets kept them in a defensive position. The home crowd got excited a couple of times late in the game as the Comets were driving for what seemed to be sure goals.

But the two offside calls on those plays left the cheering section groaning with disappointment. The bitterness of the players was visible on their faces after a hard fought

game ended in a tie.

Zeller said the Comets played great as a team defensively, but offensively they need to “improve on striker play.” He added that the strikers need to work with the midfield to get a stronger push toward the goal.

“We’re holding the ball,” said Comets forward Kenneth Henry, referring to the hesitation he saw from his fellow Comets as they would drive toward the goal and squander scoring opportunities looking for perfect shots.

Contact Rodney Woodson at rwoodson. advocate@gmail.com.

Sluggish start results in tough loss Team edged by Vikings, 27-20

quarterback Joey Bradley on DVC’s second play of the game. A 16-yard touchdown by wide receiver Greg Wilson quickly followed.

Similar to last week’s game against Monterey Peninsula College,

By Malcolm Lastra SPORTS EDITOR the Comets offense began slow and looked scrambled as DVC’s intense PLEASANT HILL — In their pass rush overwhelmed the offensive meeting last season, Diablo Valley line and forced an interception.

College stomped Contra Costa Defensively, however, CCC College 64-15. rebounded and began to hurry the On Friday night, however, the Vikings quarterback into making Comets were able to stay competi- inaccurate throws, shutting down the tive against their rival, but offensive running game and forcing another struggles due to insufficient quarter- interception. back protection proved “Coming out here, to prevent enough big we wanted to make it an ScoreBoard plays to match the ugly game,” Carter said.

Vikings as CCC earned “DVC has one of the Vikings 27 its first loss of the seatop ranked offenses in Comets 20 son 27-20.

(Northern California), “We gave up too so we wanted to run the Next game: many big plays,” coach football and make sure Saturday vs. Los Alonzo Carter said. to play good defense.”

Medanos, 1 p.m.

“The Vikings are a CCC was able to good team. However, get its first points of if we would have minithe game on a onemized their big plays, yard touchdown run by we could have won the game.”

James Hines.

The Vikings (2-0 overall) set the Despite the penalties and offentone early by taking a 13-0 lead, as sive struggles, the Comets defense wide receiver Chase Danska scored was able to keep the game close, on a 77-yard touchdown pass from trailing the Vikings 13-6 at the half.

“Our offense simply wasn’t there early in the game,” quarterback Jeffery Anderson said. “At halftime, coach told us to not get down and beat ourselves up, and that we were still in the game.”

The Comets hope to establish their offense in their next game against Los Medanos College this Saturday at 1 p.m. in Comet Stadium.

After a DVC touchdown early in the second half, trailing 20-6, the Comets brought Carter’s halftime message into effect when they came out playing more fueled and explosive. The Comets offense began to wake up as Anderson found tight end Kevin Hal with a 86-yard touchdown pass.

However, DVC quickly responded on a 90-yard kick return touchdown by receiver Chris Mamon.

“It was a slow start, but once we got settled things started working for us,” defensive back Jovontae Johnson said. “The offense played good, but we have to punch opponents in the mouth early.”

CCC continued its defensive intensity, especially its pass rush in the second half, as the defensive line forced its second interception to Johnson who returned it 60 yards

for a touchdown, making the score 27-20.

“I just read the (DVC) quarterback and I was surprised that I actually got it,” Johnson said. “From there I made the right moves to get into the end zone.”

Despite the close score, the Comets still struggled to protect Anderson, as he was sacked four times in the fourth quarter, totaling six times for the game.

“I think one thing we have to do is to keep our quarterback mentally and physically focused,” assistant coach Marcus Mensah Webb said, “(Anderson) took a lot of punishment out there, but he does a good job at looking at films and trying to erase his mistakes.”

The Vikings held on for the 2720 victory after stripping the ball from the Comets’ offense on CCC’s last offensive drive.

“We were prepared well for this game, but each week we must continue to erase mental mistakes,” Anderson said. “I want people to stop putting down CCC as a program because I believe this may be our last loss.”

Contact Malcolm Lastra at mlastra.advocate@gmail.com.

Box scores Football (Sept. 17) Diablo Valley, Contra Costa Diablo Valley 13 0 14 0 — 27 CCC 6 0 7 7 — 20 First Quarter Diablo Valley — Danska 77 yd pass from Bradley (kick blocked) 13:55.

Diablo Valley — Wilson 16 yd pass from Bradley (Aliano kicked) 5:34.

CCC — Hines 1 yd run (kick blocked) 1:38.

Second Quarter No Score Third Quarter Diablo Valley — Ray 3 yd run (Aliano kick) 7:59.

CCC — Hal 86 yd pass from Anderson (Munguia kick) 6:53.

Diablo Valley — Mamon 90 yd kick return (Aliano kick) 6:36.

Fourth Quarter CCC — Johnson 60 yd interception return (Munguia kick) 11:26.

Individual statistics Rushing — Diablo Valley — Bradley 4-10, Turner 15- 83, Callan 2-24, Calhoun 4-41, Ray 4-10. — CCC — Green 17-37, Hines 9-36, Allen 1- (-4), Morrow 1- (-8), Anderson 6- (-17).

Passing — Diablo Valley— Bradley 1629-2 177. — CCC — Anderson 5-19-2 146.

Receiving — Diablo Valley — Danska 5-100, Wilson 2-12, Turner 1-3, Callan 1- (-3), Glover 1-3, Walden 2-14, Moss 1- (-2), Van Brunt 2-26, Mamon 1-19. — CCC — Lovett 233, Morrow 2-37, Hines 1-0, Hal 1-86.

Missed field goals — Diablo Valley — None. — CCC — 1.

Record — Diablo Valley — 2-0 overall, 0-0 in NORCAL. — CCC — 1-1 overall, 0-0 in BVC.

Squad beaten in three sets “We were strong on our communication, scrappiness and our ability to keep balls alive,” Shrieve said. “We ASSOCIATE EDITOR need to get the passes to the setter, but passing is the hardest part of the game.”

The inability to kill the ball on offense prevented the The Comets had the most difficulty in the second set, Comets’ volleyball team from getting far in its season in which they were dominated by the Storm 25-9. CCC opener at home in a three set loss, by 25-13, 25-9 and allowed Napa Valley to achieve 11 consecutive points 25-19, to Napa Valley College on Friday. with Storm libero Meriha Wallace going on a serving While the Comet (0-1 in the Bay Valley Conference) rampage getting 11 service points. defense performed well by stopping the Storm (1-4 “We need to shake off our mistakes and play our overall, 1-0 in the BVC) offense at times and keeping game,” Comet outside hitter Melanie Raquel said. the ball alive to continue back-and-forth “(We) still need to work on defense and rallies, it was their errors in hitting and communication.”

ScoreBoard passing on offense that gave up most of CCC played its best during the third their points. set, despite the 25-19 loss, where they Storm def. Comets battled the Storm by getting necessary “We still need to work on our services 25-13, 25-9, 25-19 digs and key kills. and to push the passes (up) to the net,” Comets’ coach Zachary Shrieve said. “If “We had a lot of strong points, but we Next game: we can push our passing up to the net, we need to work on our service and passToday vs. Laney, could run our offense in the middle.” ing,” Iosua said.

The Comets hope to bounce back Their digs were their strength as the 6 p.m. from this loss and try to win their first Comets had 22 digs with Raquel leading game when they play Laney College the team with 10. today at 6 p.m. in the Gymnasium. “(Raquel) played real well, she’s our defensive wizBeing unable to score left Contra Costa College ard and gets everything off the floor,” Shrieve said. repeatedly defending against Napa Valley. Their trouble He also acknowledged solid performances from Iosua in killing is in not being able to hit the ball over the net and setters Shayla Farinas and Jazmine Mendozas. or hitting it out of bounds.

The first set, ending 25-13, included the Storm going “I think we did decent,” outside hitter Lynn Iosua on a seven-point run. Despite losing, the Comets did not said. “Napa is one of the top teams in our league. We give up on playing the game. started off well, but errors and errors and errors ruined “I think we did pretty well,” Shrieve said. “We played our momentum.” real hard and scrapped. I really like our effort.”

The Comets defense had trouble stopping Storm’s Contact Dariush Azmoudeh at dazmoudeh. setter Tiffany Molinar, who had seven kills for the advocate@gmail.com. game.

By Dariush Azmoudeh

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Out of reach — Comet setter Shayla Farinas misses after a dive for a ball during the second set against Napa Valley College in the Gymnasium on Friday.

12 THE ADVOCATE Unleashed

Movies

This week: “Howl” (NR) “Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole” (PG) “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps” (PG-13) “Buried” (R)

DVDs

This week: “Robin Hood” (PG-13) “Bored to Death: The Complete First Season” (R) “Modern Family: The Complete First Season” (NR)

CDs

New releases: Selena Gomez & The Scene: “A Year Without Rain” John Legend and The Roots: “Wake Up!” Maroon 5: “Hand All Over” The Roots: “Wake Up!”

Games

l WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2010

SCENE

Greed, power played on stage Performance shows business’ struggle to survive

production, it is no surprise the play is heavily embedded with business ideas and terminology.

As a person who is not versed in stock market and corporate jargon, several aspects of the plot proved to be hard to grasp and made it

By Alexandra Waite hard to remain attentive.

NEWS EDITOR That being said, the minute the POINT RICHMOND — Many plot reverted back to the relationships between the characters, my have conjured up interpretations interest quickly regenerated. as to why individuals can be so Actor Will Maier personified driven by greed and the promise the detestable and scheming busiof power. nessman so perfectly he made the In the Masquers Playhouse whole audience hate him.

Production of “Other playreview Yet, throughout the play People’s Money,” an obese the audience begins to see Wall Street stockholder Garfinkle in a new light in by the name of Lawrence response to the tactics of Garfinkle embodies one attorney Kate Sullivan. interpretation of a greed“Other People’s In the role of Sullivan, induced man.

Money” actress Bonnie Antonini The play, which runs ★★★★★ until Oct. 2, was written by Venue: Masquers commands the stage and uses her intelligence and Jerry Sterner in 1989 and Playhouse Directed by: gender to manipulate men directed by Robert Estes.

Robert Estes and come out ahead.

It takes place in the late Open Until: The chemistry between 1980s and tells the story of Oct. 2 Garfinkle and Sullivan is a small company that fights entertaining for the audiagainst Garfinkle’s corpoence, as the two bicker back and rate takeover. forth while maintaining a spark of Garfinkle, more commonly attraction for each other. known as “Larry the Liquidator,” The stage inside the playhouse targets the New England Wire and is of a small size, but the producCable company based in Rhode tion crew made good use of it.

Island, which he discovers is Half of the stage consists of a “worth more dead than alive.” cold, gray and minimalistic Wall The owner of the company, Andrew Jorgensen, makes it clear Street office. The remainder of the to Garfinkle that he will not stand stage is made up of a warm-toned, friendly, and quaint office with aside and watch his company get sold off like Garfinkle’s other vic- wooden furniture.

Jorgensen provides one intertims. Instead, he fights Garfinkle pretation of Garfinkle’s greedby enlisting the help of his secdriven personality toward the end retary and lover’s cutthroat Wall of the play in a plea to the compaStreet attorney daughter. ny’s stockholders to vote to make The battle that ensues between the company and Garfinkle is exe- Garfinkle sell his shares back. He claims Garfinkle “makes nothcuted admirably by the actors. ing and leaves nothing” and plays Based on the premise of the

SAM ATTAL / THE ADVOCATE

In a daze — Kate Sullivan (Bonnie Antonini) speaks to Lawrence Garfinkle (Will Maier) about the future during “Other People’s Money” at the Masquers Playhouse in Point Richmond on Sept. 4.

Monopoly with people’s lives.

He concludes, “Business is more than increasing stock, it’s a place where people make friends and dream their dreams.”

After Jorgensen’s uplifting and idealistic speech, Garfinkle offsets it with a realistic presentation about the previous speech being nothing more than a prayer for a company that was inevitably murdered by the market.

Garfinkle admits to Sullivan that he does not need money, but wants it because it provides unconditional acceptance. He jokes, “The only other things that

give that are dogs and donuts.”

The two-part ending is perhaps the best thing about the play. The first half is a twist that is somewhat of a happy ending. The second ending counteracts the first in its depressing nature.

Though it may not be the typical happy ending theatergoers often wish for, it comes off as refreshing and authentic.

Tickets can be purchased at www.masquers.org. For more information, call 510-232-3888.

Contact Alexandra Waite at awaite. advocate@gmail.com.

Newest addition to Halo series amazes ties and weapons. This is a drastic For those unfamiliar with the change from the game’s predecesgame, “Deathmatch” is where

By Cary Gooding sors, where you would have to one kills the opposing team with STAFF WRITER find different weapons in predewhatever weapons are found. In termined spots on the map.

“Halo: Reach” is a worthy addi- objective modes, a team The armor abilities has a set goal, such as cap- gamereview tion to the legendary Halo saga. include a jetpack, a health turing the opposing flag, From the marvelous campaign to shield, invincibility, holofighting for control of terthe vastly improved multiplayer graphic projections, sprintritories and planting bombs game play, “Reach” is leaving its ing and invisibility. These in bases. buyers in a state of amazement. new abilities provide a Thus, the objective “Halo: Reach” Its key additions from earlier refreshing twist to multi★★★★★ games demand a more games in the series are armor Studio: Bungie player and offer new ways abilities, improved graphics and a tactful style of play.

Genre: First of out-smarting and killing “Firefight” is more conew “invasion” game-type.

Person Shooter their enemies. operative. Players meet up MSRP: $59.99 Like all Halo games, there is a All these additions are online and take on hordes campaign, but like in the last two great, but for the die-hard of computer-controlled installments of Halo, “Reach’s” fans of the Halo series, one enemies in a fight for surmain draw is the multiplayer addition trumps them all. The pisvival. mode. The campaign, with its tol has been reverted to its former The biggest change to the varying difficulties, is fun but glory from the days of Halo 1. online multiplayer is the addition gets old quickly. The multiplayer All installments after the first of “load-outs” and armor abiliprovides players with endless Halo had a weak version of the ties. Before you enter any game, hours of entertainment with you choose a load-out, which will pistol, making it almost useless “Deathmatch,” objective gametypes, “Firefight,” and “Invasion.” start you with certain armor abili- and intended as a last resort when

ammunition for more capable weapons was low. After many user complaints, Bungie (the developing team of Halo) finally gave the pistol back its ability to rip heads from shoulders from across a map.

Also, a new game engine is used in this edition. This means better graphics and smoother online play. The improved graphics make the game look better, but more important to the multiplayer fans is the improved bullet accuracy. The satisfaction of a clean headshot with no complications is enough reason alone to buy the game for some.

Overall, the game is one of the best additions to Halo saga. It’s no wonder it made more than $200 million within its first 24 hours on shelves.

Contact Cary Gooding at csgooding.advocate@gmail.com.

‘Suns’ burns up charts New releases: F1 2010 (PS3, XBOX360, PC - E) Serious Sam HD: The Second Encounter (XBOX360 - M) Cladun: This is an RPG (PSP - E10+)

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

However, this album has more rapping by Mike Shinoda and disc jockeying by Joe

By Dariush Azmoudeh Hahn compared to the last album, “Minutes ASSOCIATE EDITOR to Midnight.”

The vocals also take on new sound, with In 2000, rock band Linkin Park released Shinoda singing along with vocalist Chester its first album, “Hybrid Theory,” which Bennington. The other members also sing explored elements of rock, rap, and elecin songs as the chorus. With that, the album tronic to redefine and revoprovides powerful vocals despite a lack of lutionize the sound of nucdreview screaming by Bennington. metal. Ten years have passed In total, “A Thousand Suns” has 15 and with the release of its tracks with nine songs and the rest interfourth album, “A Thousand ludes. The interlude between songs makes Suns,” the band continues to listening to the entire album a “journey.” experiment with new styles “A Thousand The album’s reception has been mixed of music.

Suns” since the release of its first single called In comparison to any★★★★★ thing done before by Linkin Artist: Linkin Park “The Catalyst.” The new and more synthPark, “A Thousand Suns” is Genre: Alternative based sound of the song has left fans dividLabel: Warner ed on the band’s new approach. a whole new direction. As a Brothers The one song that is closest to Linkin whole, this album provides Release Date: Sept. 14 Park’s old style is “Wretches and Kings,” the sounds that the band is which is the heaviest song and includes known for, such as rapping, rapping by Shinoda and the chorus sang by rock, and electronic, but each Bennington. song varies in style.

Though its old stuff was great, this album The overall rock sound has been turned takes a while to get used to. But like the down, no longer with the heavy guitars or drums from before, but with a calmer sound band members say, they are not trying to and slower tempo in most of the songs. The make the same album over and over again. drumming has differed with the experimenContact Dariush Azmoudeh at dazmoudeh. tation of different percussion instruments. advocate@gmail.com.

SPECIAL TO / THE ADVOCATE

Blackout — “A Thousand Suns,” the fourth album by rock band Linkin Park, has been a best-seller on iTunes since it’s release Sept. 14.