The Advocate - Dec. 8, 2010

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

Comets fall short of goals

Campus athletics evaluated, graded

scene ◆ page A6

Flopped Comedy acts prove impotent

CMYK

sports ◆ page A7

campus beat ◆ page A5

Students sell jewelry, pottery Transition Program holds successful showcase

VOL. 95, NO. 11

SINCE 1950 16 PAGES, ONE COPY FREE

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 ACCENTADVOCATE.COM

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

Hearing persists into 4th week

KEEN EYES

Defendants, witnesses give testimonies

By Cassandra Juniel SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE

Dissecting the details — Long-time English professor Fritz Pointer will retire at the end of the semester to pursue his plans to travel the world and study different cultures. He has taught various subjects at the college for 22 years.

SCHOLAR STEPS DOWN

By Sam Attal

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A scholar can never quench a thirst for education and exploration. An activist cannot “When stop trying to help solve you’re takthe issues ing a class that plague the world. A with Fritz renaissance Pointer, man cannot teach a classyou’re room full of dazed, apa- getting a thetic zom- universitybies. An advocate for read- level educaing and edution.” cation cannot stand it when Ptah Mitchell, some choose former student to indulge in meaningless activities rather than in the words of a book.

English professor Fritz Pointer fits all of these personas and has put up with the wait long enough.

He will be leaving it all behind him.

After serving the college for 22 years, Pointer, now 67 years old, is planning to travel the world, spend time with his family, write and pursue a more pleasing life in

his retirement.

“I’m retiring because it’s time for me,” Pointer said. “I’ve had a wonderful career.”

A dedicated instructor Pointer’s colleagues consider him as one of the best teachers on campus and see his void as a misfortune to students who want to gain the most out of their classes.

“He is a wonderful man and a terrific scholar,” sociology professor J. Vern Cromartie said.

“When he leaves, Contra Costa College will suffer a great loss.”

Pointer is known for pushing his students to think critically about mainstream topics, current events and popular viewpoints.

“He’s a traditional instructor,” English department coChairwoman Joy Eichner-Lynch said. “He’ll challenge you. Most students don’t get that he looks at education as the one safe place where they can think outside of the box.”

Students often complain about Pointer’s curriculum and his outspoken nature, but his colleagues see that as one of the best traits about his teaching style.

“Good teachers piss students off. He wouldn’t be doing his job if he wasn’t,” Eichner-Lynch said. “In the old days, there were

Pointer’s recommended reads “The Souls of Black Folk” by W. E. B. Dubois

“A People’s History of the United States” by Howard Zinn

“Black Skin, White Masks”

by Frantz Fanon

“Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe

“The Communist Manifesto”

by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels

“The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Alex Haley and Malcolm X

■ SEE POINTER: Page 4

MARTINEZ — Friday marked the 12th day of preliminary hearings in the case of a gang rape of a 16-year old girl that took place on the Richmond High School campus last fall.

The hearing began Nov. 15, was expected to go on for three weeks, but is now going into its fourth week, taking place at the Contra Costa County Superior Court in Martinez, presided over by Judge Gregory M. Caskey.

The remaining five witnesses to be called on Monday will be other police officers who participated in interviews with the suspects upon their arrests and/or arrived at the scene of the crime, as well as officials from the crime lab.

The defendants in the case are Cody Smith, 16, Ari Morales, 17, Marcelles Peter, 18, John Crane, 43, Manuel Ortega, 20, Jose Montano, 19 and Elvis Torrentes, 23.

Three suspects who were juveniles at the time of the crime – Smith, Morales and Peter – have been charged as adults.

“I believe the judge should rule that the case go to trial, however, the minors should be tried as young adults – they are not adults. I feel the district is as much at fault as the suspects; no public party should be without security,” third-year health and human services department student Linda Blevins said.

The incident occurred Oct. 24, 2009 while a homecoming dance was taking place in the gymnasium.

The victim, a student at Richmond High School, was plied with alcohol, then raped, sometimes with a foreign object, beaten, urinated on, photographed with cell phone cameras and robbed by a group of males in a courtyard over a period of two and a half hours, according to police.

■ SEE RAPE: Page 4

Warm sentiments, meals dished out RICHMOND — In the spirit of the holiday season, students and members of the Contra Costa College health and human services department offered their helping hands to the Bay Area Rescue Mission to prepare meals serving more than 300 residents and the general public on Nov. 23.

Those who served meals to a community of people for the first time said they felt joyful to be able

to help.

“I’m so excited. This is my first time doing this,” department Chairwoman Aminta Mickles said.

“It’s what we do; it’s who we are. We give a kind word and provide all of the love and support that we can.”

Of the approximately 40 students enrolled in department’s classes, many came out to assist in helping the needy, Mickles said. Graduates also assisted with the duties.

“This is my first time serving,” student Michael Connolly said.

“I’m loving it – the inspirational ■ SEE MISSION: Page 4

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

SPOTLIGHT EDITOR

Age is minor

Two of the defendants facing trial for raping a 16-year-old Richmond girl weren’t legally adults when they did it. But a year hardly deserves leniency.

page 2 in brief ✔ The hearing for the case of the rape of a 16-year-old girl that occurred Oct. 24, 2009 at Richmond High School began Nov. 15, presided over

by Judge Gregory M. Caskey. ✔ Seven male suspects have been apprehended and questioned so far. ✔ Two of the seven who allegedly raped, beat and robbed the girl were under age at the time of the incident.

Charity chow — Health and human services department student Michael Connolly (left) places food onto plates held by J. R. Hovan at the Bay Area Rescue Mission on Nov. 23.

QING HUANG / THE ADVOCATE

CMYK

By Cassandra Juniel

edit orial

CMYK

A2 THE ADVOCATE Quotable “Isn’t it up to journalists to wrestle with what is in the public interest, not necessarily what is of interest?”

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 VOL. 95, NO. 11 ●

Editorial Grown-up sentence

Tom Selleck actor 1997 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 Jermaine Harrison circulation manager Paul DeBolt faculty adviser Staff writers Hilberth Ibarra Natalie Estrada Cary Gooding April Halog Cheuk Ko 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, DEC. 8, 2010

Being tried as minors does not serve justice

M

ore than a year has passed since the abhorrent and now infamous incident on Richmond High School’s campus where a 16-yearold girl was brutally raped by a number of young men.

And now the preliminary hearing taking place in Martinez is entering its fourth week of calling witnesses and presenting evidence in the case.

Glossing over the embarrassing fact that the defense attorneys are proposing the case not even go to trial, what makes very little logical sense is that two of the seven suspects, Cody Smith and Ari Morales, are hoping to be tried as minors.

As they were aged 16 and 17, respectively, at the time of the incident, it is obviously true that they were not legally adults, but the crime they’ve allegedly committed is certainly not one to be taken so lightly due solely to that fact.

The defense attorneys for the two cite “peer pressure” as a reason for their alleged involvement, and the traditional sentiment behind lesser sentences for younger defendants is that those who haven’t yet reached maturity have more of a chance to change their ways through rehabilitation. However, exceptions to this rule, as with all rules, have been made in the past.

With the nature of these allegations, if the defendants are all tried as adults, the six who allegedly physically participated in the act of rape could face sentences of life in prison. If Smith and Morales are tried as minors, however, even if convicted their sentences would be much less severe.

What makes this fact so strange is that Marcelles Peter, another of the defendants, is 18 years old. If these three suspects are found guilty of the same crime (the charges include forcing a variety of foreign objects inside of a dangerously intoxicated young woman before taking turns urinating on her naked body) why should a measly year or two grant those lucky enough to be younger a less stringent punishment?

A mere month could conceivably be all that separates Peter and Morales in age.

That month is meaningless in a case like this.

Smith and Morales should go to trial, with the rest of the defendants, as adults.

They should face the consequences of their alleged “adult” actions.

If all of the evidence is presented, their stories are told and the jury decides they are not guilty, so be it. But the idea of giving them a lighter sentence because of their ages is simply wrong.

If the facts presented in the case end up incriminating them beyond a reasonable doubt, it’s only right that they should receive the maximum punishment. If you’re old enough to rape somebody, you’re old enough to be punished as an adult.

FAYTHE DEL ROSARIO / THE ADVOCATE

■ Love

Disney princesses sell fallacies, break hearts

I

have long accepted that I’ll never meet a unicorn.

I don’t still entertain fancies about sprouting wings or being saved from this poor, provincial town and trotting off into the sunset. But I’ve only recently realized that my childhood idols were lying to me about love, too.

Snow White and Sleeping Beauty tried instilling a sense in me that being worth saving meant you were worth loving, and that I should therefore find myself in some plight to fluff a guy’s ego enough that he’ll want me around forever.

Jasmine made it seem like all I needed was a pretty face and swiveling hips to seal the deal.

Ariel committed the cardinal sin of feminism by changing her physical makeup to be with her prince who was so gullible he fell under the spell of a crazy witch.

Obviously, over the years a girl learns that singing into wishing wells and falling into 100-year slumbers isn’t really that attractive, but the thought that true love conquers all is one that’s been very hard for me to shake.

I think perhaps the biggest slap in the face from these girls is the one Belle has left smarting hotly on my cheek.

Of all the classic Disney stories, hers is the one that has reverberated with me forever. She was a bookworm with a yearning for adventure that always saw the best in people. She met a beast that at first was so mean, coarse and unrefined that he had no qualms about nearly killing her father, and she ended up

cassidygooding

continue with her life after facing what seemed like disgust from Shang. But even he returned to her in the end, creating this cycle that has made gaggles of girls believe that as long as we have these feelings and stay true to them, the men we danced with once upon a dream will always come through.

This is a fallacy that aches juxtaposed with reality, and I’ll be the first to admit I’ve been much too willing to follow Belle’s lead, coming out with unrequited feelings and a stinging loss of innocence.

Part of me is determined to stay positive, to rename my prize for rotten judgment as a trophy of experience and move on with my life. I’m young, after all, and there’s plenty of time to find that key to heaven Cinderella sang about.

But the other part of me can’t quite forgive Belle for making it look so easy. All she had to do was fall in love, and poof! She had a ready-made prince with servants and a castle.

But maybe all these stories are really supposed to do is show girls the sort of happy endings we deserve, and to instruct us to wait out all the frogs and narcissistic jerks until we find someone really worth it all. So I suppose I shouldn’t be too terribly bitter, because that optimistic part of me is still convinced that someday my prince will come.

agreeing to be his prisoner in return for her dad’s freedom.

Then, by being open-minded about her captor while holding true to her own beliefs and beauty, she changed him into a prince. By no other force than love, he transformed for her and they lived happily ever after.

So I wonder, a decade later, how my generation is supposed to feel when we are shown that this idea is so false, so silly that it will someday break our hearts.

Our mothers and our peers may tell us to be realistic; that boy’s never going to change, no matter how much he says he will. How do we know whom to believe, then, when Belle and even the new Princess Tiana convey to us that love can turn a beast into a prince or a playboy into a gentleman?

Furthermore, Belle, Tiana and their princess pals never taught me how to deal with rejection or heartbreak.

When Ariel’s man found a new girl, she simply gave up and cried until she was rallied by the realization that he was under a spell.

When Thumbelina thought Prince Cornelius had abandoned her, she agreed to marry a mole whom she ultiCassidy Gooding is opinmately left at the altar for the aforementioned fairy prince. ion editor of The Advocate.

Contact her at cgooding.

Mulan, probably the best example, actually decided to advocate@gmail.com.

CampusComment

How do you define the holidays?

“Family, cold weather and joy define the holidays for me.”

Aashni Patel undecided

“The things that define the holidays for me are spending time with family and time off from school.” chemistry

“Family, friends and food are what define the holidays for me.”

“When everyone gets together and has fun is what defines the holidays for me.”

Darryl Andrews Ashley Schauer

Angela Votto

ROY CHAN / THE ADVOCATE

“Corporate moguls that push their products as gifts are what define the holidays for me.” liberal arts

business management

“The one thing that defines the holidays for me is fun.”

Gagan Deol

Kisione Lula

health and human services

nursing

FORUM ■ Rights

adamoliver

Controversial suicide aid proves fair

I

t was in 1776 with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence that the right to life was declared basic and unalienable for all members of this nation.

Just emerging from beneath British tyranny, colonial politicians and citizens sought to safeguard the rights of the individual through the declaration, therein implying that no one need the permission of any other to live.

So, what about death?

Should citizens be given the right to decide their own end?

Because of moral, religious and humanitarian controversy, this is no simple question.

Though there’s no purging the sin of self-murder in God’s eyes, proponents of assisted suicide argue that it should be a fundamental right for all patients seeking the procedure, and that it could thwart a great portion of the macabre end-of-life scenarios many endure.

About a year and a half back, the grandfather of a very close friend of mine, who had been suffering from cancer for years, shot himself in the head with a rifle in his Reno home.

This morbid scene sent shockwaves through the entire family, leaving all wondering what triggered the abrupt and unforeseen action.

Without a physician-assisted suicide program available in Nevada, my friend’s grandpa had no way out, except to stomach the pain and confusion he would inevitably cause his loved ones by ending the suffering that made his life unlivable.

By outlawing and stigmatizing assisted suicide, we are depriving these terminal patients of the dignity and emotional resolution that every human being should be entitled to on their dying day.

Prohibiting the secure passing of a sentient patient for arbitrary and prejudiced reasons only obstructs the emotional closure of all parties involved, and demonstrates how far buried beneath religious dogma America is.

Disregarding the plight of evangelicals and other religious extremists, there is very little logical basis for denying an individual this right, whether in the final stages of terminal cancer or suffering from some mental disorder.

To decide whether assisted suicide is permissible, one must consider whether it is ever right to take a life.

Once this is established, it is clear that, in the consideration of suicide, there is no person more capable of deciding between the positive and negative aspects of their life than the individual considering the procedure.

If the patient is able to make decisions and feels there is more pain than happiness ahead of him or her, then the usual reason against killing — that it deprives the goods that life will bring — is not applicable.

When the average citizen is faced with a future so bleak and fruitless that it incites considerations of suicide, who is anyone to speculate or obstruct that decision?

If one values individual liberty, then it should naturally follow that they support the patient’s right to physician-assisted suicide.

Adam Oliver is a staff photographer for The Advocate.

Contact him at aoliver. advocate@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

A3

■ Safety

A

‘Rape-aXe’ proves risky to all

few months ago at the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, 30,000 anti-rape condoms were distributed.

The device goes by the name of Rape-aXe. It was created to give women a chance to escape from her rapist while barb hooks become attached to a man’s penis after he has forced himself upon her. These hooks are supposed to latch on tight, causing excruciating pain.

The only way these barbs can be taken off is surgically, which would mean that the attacker would have to go to a doctor. After the attacker seeks medical attention, the doctor would contact authorities and the law would handle him accordingly.

The concept of the anti-rape condom sounds good, but should have just remained a concept.

These condoms can be easily manipulated in favor of women, cause a false sense of safety and may incriminate a man in an unjust manner.

faythedelrosario Critics have scrutinized the toothed device because it might cause women to manifest psychological trauma.

Some people are mentally unsound, and if given the opportunity, a few women can use this as a sort of torture device.

A woman may lure a man by seduction; giving him the idea that it is justified to have sexual intercourse.

Then, the barbs would become attached and leave the guy wincing in unbelievable agony. Ironically, in this scenario, the man becomes the victim.

If women solely rely on Rape-aXe for their safety, then they may have a whole lot more coming to them.

If a man does try to rape a woman, and the thorns suc-

cessfully stick onto him, it is more than probable that he will be angry enough to antagonize his victim to another level.

The condom can be worn comfortably for 24 hours, and women are able to go about their day with it inside them. For instance, what if a girl named Sally has been wearing this condom. She puts it on in the morning because she is anticipating a huge party that evening, and wants to feel confident enough that she will not be taken advantage of. The social gathering, in her opinion, is amazing.

As the night continues on, she becomes heavily inebriated by the amount of alcohol she consumes. Sally finds Andrew, a guy who is mutually attracted to her. The two of them hit it off and go back to his place.

She is too drunk to remember to take out the condom when they agreed to get intimate. Unaware, Andrew advances and suddenly he starts screaming.

Andrew goes to the doctor to have the spikes removed.

The medical practitioner calls the law enforcement, and Andrew is wrongfully apprehended by the police for interrogation.

The barbs are not intended to cause major physical damage. They leave scars to cause the man to remember his crime and for future women in his life to see.

It is probably safe to say that women who know about these anti-rape condoms would not continue a relationship with any man if she has seen these scars on him.

Not only would the scars cause any male to remember what has happened, but the physical label of “rapist” would also be on his body.

Rape-aXe, while it may be appropriate to those who believe it is a precautionary apparatus, can be a danger to women and men alike.

Faythe Del Rosario is a staff illustrator for The Advocate. Contact her at frosario.advocate@gmail.com.

POISONOUS protein Corn-fed cattle degrade health of humans, earth

By Cody McFarland SCENE EDITOR

B

y attempting to be more economical with the way beef is produced, the United States has managed to become far less ecological.

Feeding cows corn may be the fastest way possible to get them as fat as possible, but it is also proven to be unhealthy for both cow and consumer.

Raising cattle the way they were naturally intended to live — in a pasture eating grass — provides ranchers a healthier, leaner overall product, while also providing consumers with more vitamin E, beta-carotene and cancer-fighting fatty acids.

Before considering the benefits humans receive in choosing grass-fed over grain-fed beef, consider the positive impact it has on the livestock.

Ruminant animals, such as cattle, sheep, buffalo and goats are unique because of their special digestive systems, which convert otherwise unusable plant cellulose into nutritious food and fiber.

By regurgitating and re-chewing the grass they graze on, cows further break down plant matter and stimulate diges-

tion throughout the course of their six stomachs in a process known as “ruminating.”

Unfortunately for commercial ranchers, a beef calf will not grow from a birth weight of 80 pounds to 1,200 pounds in little more than a year on grass alone. It takes enormous quantities of corn, protein supplements, antibiotics and growth hormones to be given to them at feedlots where they hardly exercise.

The transition is so disturbing to the digestive system that it may kill the animal if not done gradually and supported by continuous antibiotics.

American author, journalist and activist Michael Pollan writes about his experience with feedlot cattle in a 2002 article of New York Times Magazine.

According to Pollan, a corn diet turns the neutral pH of a rumen unnaturally acidic, giving feedlot cattle acidosis and contributing to further ailments.

“The condition can lead to diarrhea, ulcers, bloat, liver disease and a general weakening of the immune system that leaves the animal vulnerable to everything from pneumonia to feedlot polio,” he said.

Because cows’ intestinal tracts become far more acidic, the conditions favor the growth of pathogenic E. coli bacteria. First isolated in the 1980s, this pathogen is now found in the intestines of most U.S. feedlot cattle.

Pollan warns, “The

digestive tract of the modern feedlot cow is closer in acidity to our own, and in this new, man-made environment, acid-resistant strains of E. coli have developed that can survive our stomach acids — and go on to kill us.”

But for all the times we eat commercial beef and don’t die, we pack on extra, unnecessary calories and fat.

Grass-fed beef is not only lower in overall fat and artery-clogging saturated fat, but it has the added advantage of providing more omega-3 fatty acids.

These crucial healthy fats are most plentiful in flaxseeds and fish, but are also found in walnuts, soybeans and meat from animals that have grazed on omega-3 rich grass.

When cattle are taken off grass, however, and shipped to a feedlot to be plumped on grain, they immediately begin losing omega-3s stored in their tissues. As a consequence, the meat from feedlot animals typically contains only 15-50 percent as many omega-3s as that from grass-fed livestock.

In addition, meat from pastured cattle is up to four times higher in vitamin E and contains many conjugated linoleic acids, good fats associated with lowering cancer risks.

Aside from these nutritional advantages, pasturing beef is also less polluting. As a result of eating their intended diets, the animals’ droppings act as a natural fertilizer and provide nutrients for the next cycle of crops. In feedlots and other factory farms, however, the animals’ waste builds up and becomes a source of water and air pollution.

Allowing cows to roam and graze grassy fields instead of confining them to feedlots that stuff them with corn is inarguably better for the cow and human bodies. As for which one actually tastes better, now that is up to the consumer.

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

CODY MCFARLAND / THE ADVOCATE

A4 THE ADVOCATE accent advocate ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Twitter

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

Newsline ■ COMEDY

Stand-up show in Knox The CCC drama department will put on its final Stand Up Comedy Show tonight at the Knox Center from 7 to 9 p.m.

The event is open to the public and general admission is $5. For more information, visit the drama department’s website at cccdrama.homestead.com.

■ WORKSHOPS

Scholarship help offered The Financial Aid Office is hosting a series of workshops to help students learn how to apply for the $8,000 Kennedy-King Scholarship for transferring students.

All workshops will be held in SSC-104. The application workshops will be held on Thursday and Dec. 16 at 11 a.m.

The essay writing workshops will be held on Friday and Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. For more information, contact Lizette Ponthier at 510-2357800, ext. 4253.

■ BOOKSTORE

Textbook buyback

The Bookstore will be buying back textbooks from Monday to Dec. 17.

Students can receive up to 50 percent of the original book sale price, and all funds will be distributed in cash. Photo identification will be required in order to receive payments.

CrimeWatch Monday, Nov. 15: An officer responded to a non-injury traffic incident.

A student reported that a faculty member bumped his shoulder on purpose.

Thursday, Nov. 18: A subject was stopped for a traffic stop and it was determined he was an unlicensed driver. The subject was cited.

A staff member reported a suspicious person on campus.

An instructor reported a laptop stolen from the Library.

Blood was located on the ground in front of the PS Building.

Friday, Nov. 19: A disabled student requested medical attention for difficulty breathing.

A student reported her parking permit stolen.

Sunday, Nov. 21: A student injured her ankle while playing basketball in the gym.

An AC Transit bus driver complained of rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure while driving his bus.

Monday, Nov. 22: A theft was reported.

Saturday, Nov. 27: A warrant arrest was made.

Monday, Nov 29: A victim reported the theft of his laptop in the library.

Wednesday, Dec. 1: A subject was contacted for shooting at turkeys with an air soft gun.

— Alexandra Waite

CAMPUS BEAT

l WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010

Pointer | Long-time professor takes final bow ■ FROM: Page A1

no Critical Thinking classes because every class made you think. Nobody challenges anyone in this country anymore.”

Pointer said he forces students to think about the topics and issues that are affecting them even when they are unwilling to learn.

“I do believe in maintaining academic standards,” Pointer said.

Former Contra Costa College student Ptah Mitchell began taking Pointer’s classes in the early ’90s.

“I really didn’t have any motivation to go to college,” Mitchell, a former Richmond resident, said.

“Coming from the hood, I didn’t really think I was going to become anything.”

Mitchell began taking his classes more seriously once he enrolled in Pointer’s class.

“Stepping inside of that class and seeing a black intellectual inspired me,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell, who continued on to San Francisco State, said Pointer inspired him to become a teacher and a writer through his hard work ethic. He said he remembers having to rewrite English papers over and over until he got them to a professional level.

“He wasn’t just settling for any old type of work. He was looking for top-notch quality work,” Mitchell said. “When you’re taking a class with Fritz Pointer, you’re getting a university-level education.”

Mitchell also credits Pointer for teaching him how to think critically about current events.

“He’s teaching you not only how to write but also how to think,” Mitchell said. “If you’re not ready to think, you shouldn’t take Frtiz’s class.”

English department co-Chairman John Gregorian said Pointer is always trying to help students understand why dealing with issues is important.

“He holds a high standard and that’s just what we need,” Gregorian said. “He’s very receptive to trying new things in the classroom.”

African-American studies department chairwoman Carolyn Hodge said although students may not realize it, Pointer’s attitude toward education is only for their benefit.

“He loves students who take on challenge,” Hodge said. “He wants to stimulate discussion.”

Friendly colleague To those who work alongside him in the lower floor of the Liberal Arts Building, Pointer is one of most highly-respected faculty members at the college.

“He’s so intelligent and I love listening to his thoughts,” Hodge said. “(After) talking to him, I always feel

smarter.” vices by meeting in students’ homes Cromartie considers Pointer to be to read African-American literature. more than just a co-worker. “I see He also helped establish a Northern Fritz as a big brother,” he said. “I’m California chapter of the Black very thankful for his friendship.”

Panther Party.

Other instructors often look up He then went to Creighton to Pointer for teaching ideas and University in Omaha, Neb. on a activities. basketball scholarship along with his “He’s inspiring because his mind cousin Paul Silas who later became is always working,” Eichner-Lynch an NBA champion and a coach. Both said. “He is creative and imagina- Pointer and Silas were chosen as Alltive— he’s open.”

American players during their time Cromartie and Pointer often meet at Creighton. for lunch on and During college, off campus to he faced a difficult “(Pointer is) a tradidiscuss teaching time passing freshpractices and tional instructor. He’ll man English. new curriculum. to take challenge you. Most two“I had “He’s one of full years my best friends students don’t get that of English 1A,” and I look to said. he looks at education Pointer him for leader“Ironically, I ended ship and guidas the one safe place up majoring in ance,” Cromartie where they can think English.” said. “He’s really He eventually influenced me in outside of the box.” earned bachelor’s terms of trying degrees in English to draw out the and sociology.

Joy Eichner-Lynch, potential of stuHe soon came English department co-chairwoman dents.” back to the East Others know Bay and began Pointer as a smooth talker with a teaching at Merritt College in the non-serious side displayed outside of late 1960s. the classroom.

It was here where Pointer faced “Fritz has a jovial side — he has some problems with his viewpoints a great laugh,” Gregorian said. “It’s that would lead to physical pain for always fun to see him.” the rest of his life.

Liberal Arts Division Dean Helen During a lecture, Pointer began Kalkstein said she got to know speaking against the violent ways Pointer’s fun side when he started of the Black Panther Party. Some telling jokes around the copying Black Panther members were in the machine when they met nearly 20 classroom and were not happy with years ago. his non-violent approach to social “He’s just a pleasure to be with,” problems.

Kalkstein said. “He’s very warm, “I’m an advocate for education, caring, entertaining, hardworking open-mindedness and peace,” he and funny.” said.

Hodge said she can look to Pointer Pointer was later assaulted by six if anything is bothering her or if she Black Panther members and was put just needs new ideas. out of work for a whole year. To this “If there was anything that was day he faces permanent back pain going on, I could go to his office,” and spasms.

Hodge said. “What’s stimulating for Through his experiences, some professors is talking to each other.” regard Pointer as an asset to AfricanAmerican history.

Making history, setting standards “He is one of the most profound Born to ministers Elton and people in African-American history,” Sarah Pointer, Fritz grew up with Mitchell said. “He was one of the Christianity all around him. He dudes that was there. He is a pure began challenging religion at an intellectual.” early age and is now an atheist.

He eventually received his masHe often discusses religion in his ter’s degree in African history in 1971 English classes. and a master’s degree in African lit“(Atheism is) the only logical erature in 1979 from the University and rational position for an educated of Wisconsin-Madison. person to take,” he said. “There’s no need for supernatural intervention. Fueled by literature I’m not even doubtful — there’s no Pointer had his book “A Passion supreme deity.” to Liberate” published in 2002 as a Pointer attended McClymonds literary biographical tribute to South High School in Oakland where he African novelist Alex La Guma. saw the need for black studies cours- Since then, he has been working on a es and a black student union. He second book based on mythical epic later came back to the same com- stories. It will compare the myths of munity to help establish such ser- West Africa with those of the rest of

Rape | Case outlined ■ FROM: Page A1

Approximately 25 family members and friends of the defendants have continued to attend the hearing; however, not one of them wished to comment to The Advocate.

As many as 20 witnesses are believed to have been aware of the attack, but for more than two hours no one notified the police.

According to the 11th witness, Detective Eric Smith, defendant Cody Smith allegedly extended an invitation to the victim to drink brandy with him and his friends. The girl had known Smith since the seventh grade and both attended the same biology class.

Various paraphernalia was found at the scene, including an empty bottle of brandy, as testified to by crime scene investigator officer Joanna Grizetti.

As the hearing began, Richmond police officer Todd Kaiser, the first witness to testify, said while holding back tears that he found the 16-year old victim the night of the assault slung half-naked over a bench, bloodied and vomiting.

“She was clammy, I thought she was dead. I went up and shook her and she moaned a little bit,” Kaiser said.

Another key witness testifying in the hearing thus far was Anamaree Rea, who is a licensed nurse and sexual assault response team coordinator at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center.

Rea provided details of the girl’s story told through their interview, as well as described her cuts, bruises and swelling on her body from the pictures she’d taken and brought to the hearing as evidence.

The testimony of Rea is critical in that the victim claims to remember very little about the evening other than someone holding the bottle of brandy up so that she was forced to keep drinking, according to Rea’s testimony.

Defense attorneys have suggested during the hearing that the girl was not assaulted during the incident. They have implied in their questioning that the girl voluntarily got drunk and initially flirted with some of the defendants.

The defense attorneys also suggested

that the sex was consensual and that the girl herself caused her injuries.

“The wounds to her foot might have been caused by ill-fitting shoes,” suggested attorney Jack Funk.

Additionally, attorney Ernesto Castillo (attorney for co-defendant Ari Morales) suggested that the trauma to her head might have been caused by a drunken fall.

According to police testimony earlier in the hearing given by investigator Ken Greco, he said the girl said she did not engage in any sexual activity before blacking out from drinking alcohol. The girl was quoted as saying, “If anyone would have tried something, I would have said no.”

Smith testified Thursday that codefendant Jose Montano was identified from a photo lineup as the first person to have sex with the girl. Ortega, the first to be arrested, according to Smith’s interview with Salvador Rodriguez previously, “grabbed a hold of the girl’s breast and rose up her dress.”

Rodriguez was arrested in 2009, interrogated for approximately six hours over two days, yet was later released without charges, police have said.

Smith also testified that defendant Ortega had encouraged a crowd of young men to attack the girl.

All seven, except for Torrentes, face charges that call for life in prison on allegations they physically participated in the rape. Torrentes himself could get up to 26 years in prison because he is charged with aiding the act of rape.

“I don’t feel that the minors should be tried as adults. I feel they may have been peer pressured,” health and human services department student Christopher Matted said.

On Thursday, Judge Caskey expressed his concerns over the numerous inconsistencies in the testimonies of the defendants. He will rule at the end of the hearing as to whether the prosecution has enough evidence to bring some or all of the boys and men to trial on the charges.

Contact Cassandra Juniel at cjuniel.advocate@gmail.com.

the world.

Mitchell, who is now a novelist and teacher himself, said that he sees Pointer just as influential as earlier African-American writers.

“He’s right up there,” Mitchell said. “People like Fritz continue that legacy on.”

One of those writers Mitchell thought of was James Baldwin who Pointer met and spent a day with in 1982.

“That day was the highlight of my life,” Pointer said.

As much as he wishes his students of the current generation would pick up books more often, Pointer said he is coming to accept that books are not popular anymore.

“I’m really mentally frustrated with the level of education and preparation of students who come to college,” he said. “They don’t see the value in reading.”

Pointer said that earlier generations of students would take advantage of much the literary works the world has to offer, unlike many of his recent students.

“Fritz wants students to develop a love for books,” Cromartie said. “He loves books; he’s always reading.”

He attributes the apathetic attitude of students part of the reason why he has become less excited about teaching. He has wanted to teach an African-American literature class which has failed through the years to meet enough enrollments to survive.

“It’s not the faculty’s fault; you have to look at the product we get,” he said. “These students don’t give a shit so I’ve been relegated to teaching white English.”

Always learning something new While his apathetic students are ignoring their education, Pointer plans to pursue his own further with his wife, Liziwe, through traveling.

“I’m tired of teaching,” he said.

“We want to see the world before we leave the world,” he said.

After retirement, Pointer plans to explore South Africa, Argentina, China, Venezuela and Brazil.

He plans to give himself more personal time to write and appreciate more literary work. He wants to spend more time with his children Shegun Toure, 44, Nandi Toure, 40, Somori, 32, and Thiyane. 28.

Pointer said he will miss his colleagues and friends that he has made over the years of teaching at the college.

Although he said he does miss the energy that once came from teaching and challenging students, Pointer will be gaining more energy from learning and challenging himself.

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

Mission | Rescue all of their certificates,” Carey ■ FROM: Page A1 Kachurka said. music in the background is great.

She is currently working I would love to do this again – even tomorrow, if necessary,” toward a bachelor’s degree as an addiction specialist and said that Connolly said.

The students were given all of the classes taken benefit assignments that included pre- what she does at the mission.

M a n y paring food, desire to volsetting up “The blessing is the unteer at the tables and yet serving meals people that are being mission, typically miss to guests. Their participation helped and the joy vol- out on the provided help unteers have in serv- opportunity.

However, one not only for student was that night but ing.” glad to finalalso for the ly be able to remainder of Dave Kachurka, the week.

Bay Area Rescue Mission director of volun- assist. teer services “ I ’ v e Director always wantof Volunteer ed to do this Services Dave Kachurka said that groups from and never got a chance,” stuall over the United States come to dent Beverly Mann said. “When the Bay Area Rescue Mission to I heard about our group coming, provide their volunteer services. I got excited that I was going to “We have had groups coming be able to volunteer here.”

Not only were the volunteers from Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Iowa — colleges and excited to serve, but the guests other organizations,” Kachurka were grateful for the meals.

“The gift that the mission said. “They volunteer during spring breaks, summers and for brings to the community is exquisite and outstanding,” guest the holidays.

“The thrill I have is that there Lajuana Decheur said. “To bring are volunteers that come here joy and a smile – give to each to help that get to live out their person a sense of personal value passions. Some folks see people in the love served through the being helped. The blessing is food helps to bring hope on what the people that are being helped the season is about. It is a blessand the joy volunteers have in ing and I am grateful.”

President and CEO John serving.”

The Contra Costa College Anderson said that the mission is baseball team, under the direc- an organization that offers such tion of coach Marvin Webb, vol- things as food, shelter, warm unteers each year and was on showers and fresh, clean clothes.

It provides a gospel message schedule to help at the mission of eternal hope for the soul, the next evening.

There were many testimonials GED preparation for the mind, given by residents and those who job skills training in a variety of have gone through the programs areas and counseling for parents as well as anger and financial offered at the mission.

“I went through all of the management classes. classes through (the health and Contact Cassandra Juniel at human services department) and received my associate degree and cjuniel.advocate@gmail.com.

CAMPUS BEAT

Student drama, speeches shown

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

A5

TALK SHOW

Department presents spoken word in Knox

His speech was about a young boy who started to get in trouble at an early age, and it became a cycle for him. Harris said the boy kept getting in to trouble and then began to live a life of crime, and in the end succumbed to gunshot wounds.

By Lamar James “I chose to do this speech because I am ASSOCIATE EDITOR very passionate about today’s youth, and Showcasing talent through speech, video violence is something we are confronted and drama, Speech, Drama and Video Night with,” he said.

Mark Stroud, a student who was once proved to be one of the highlight events of the semester. Entertaining a packed crowd on the Speech and Debate Team but has in the Knox Center, students displayed skill graduated the program was asked to come and hard work Nov. 18 through impromptu back to help as an assistant coach. Stroud speeches, an argumentative debate and a host performed an impromptu speech and was given three topics to speak of other excerpts. on. He had a time limit to “This was an awesome “In my opinion, write the speech and deliver night, and the students did a it all while the audience was the spoken word wonderful job,” said Connie Anderson, speech departis one of the most watching. ”In my opinion, the ment chairwoman.

Anderson said the stupowerful tools we spoken word is one of the most powerful tools we dents put a lot of effort into have.” have,” Stroud said. “Being their performing and that it on stage, you’re nervous showed on the stage.

Mark Stroud, at first, but being on the “Many of these students student Speech and Debate Team are from the beginning teaches you skills to help classes and it is actually their first time performing speeches for this overcome the nerves.”

Stroud added, “One of the topics that I large of an audience,” she said. “The hard work they have put into this has really chose to speak on was courage, and this is shown, this just shows the depth of courage what this program is all about. This program will give you the courage to do anything, and talent we have here at the college.”

Anderson also said she was “wowed” and once you have accomplished something with the performances she saw and that that you are afraid of, you feel like you can she was really happy the students enjoyed do anything.”

Professor Rachel Dwiggins-Beeler said, themselves.

“This is a hurdle they have to climb over. “This was an event to showcase the range Some of these students come to class as of talent and the abilities of the students, beginners and have already reached this level and to show that by joining the Speech and of delivery. That shows dedication and hard Debate Team you can do things you probably thought you never could.” work,” she said.

She said the students and the program are Students performed serious to funny speeches and at times even got the crowd really excellent and that she is happy to be a involved. After performing a powerful part of it. “I have seen some amazing things speech, student Lamar Harris said he was since I have had the chance to work with nervous at the beginning of his speech, but this program, and the work of the students always continues to floor me,” Dwigginsgot comfortable.

“It was really nerve-wracking at first, but Beeler said. the tone of the speech was very serious, so Contact Lamar James at ljames.

I had to overcome that and say the speech,” advocate@gmail.com.

Harris said.

LAMAR JAMES / THE ADVOCATE

Smiling sensation — Student Maria Rubio introduces the next speaker at the Speech, Drama, and Video Night in the Knox Center on Nov. 18.

Transition students sell pottery, jewelry

By Cassandra Juniel and Alexandra Waite STAFF WRITERS

In anticipation of the holidays, a group of students are practicing their entrepreneurial skills to sell various items in a Jewelry and Pottery Sale.

The Transition Program, which helps mentally challenged students under the West Contra Costa Unified School District, began selling its handmade wear, as well as special donated items in the Three Seasons Restaurant and the Switch Café Dec. 1 and will continue through Dec. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

This year, besides selling their handmade jewelry and cards, they received a generous donation of pottery from Allen Perlof, a volunteer worker of the college’s art department, transition program teacher Linda Chavez said.

Proceeds from the holiday sale will allow students to go on study trips, community shopping trips ADVERTISEMENT

and outings, thus developing their social skills.

The program had also intended to use the funds to purchase a holiday buffet meal at the Three Seasons Restaurant, until Perlof surprised the students and teachers by providing them with a Three Seasons Thanksgiving meal.

“This is the first time on behalf of the Transition Program that Perlof has participated. He first donated pottery to the program in 2009 as an act of kindness. He discovered that the students were going to use them to raise money for the culinary.

“He realized his good deed and became even more gracious with additional donations this year,” Sally Emeson, transition program teacher said.

“My reward is to see the smiles on the faces of the students and to hear their thanks for the items I gave them,” Perlof said.

Specific funds from the sale will still go to another Three Seasons banquet, but the teachers have not yet decided whether it will be in the

winter or spring.

“The Transition Program of Chavez said, “The majority of WCCUSD was established 30 students don’t come from families years ago and is the continuation that can give money to them. I of age appropriate services for specame up with the idea (of selling cial education students, ages 18-22 jewelry and pottery) so students years. It is designed to facilitate feel like they are gaining profit for successful transition to adult livthemselves.” ing. Transition, She said so “Selling is an art. You for my students, far, the sale has means transition been a success. from school life have to see the cus“It really adult life,” tomer, smile and ask to teaches stuEmerson said. dents to work To prepare if they need help. It as a team,” she the students to gets students out and have good sellsaid. “It’s totally a student driven ing skills, they it’s good for them.” project.” are being taught T h e how to interact Linda Chavez, Transition with customers, transition program teacher Program group staff and stuconsists of 22 dents, receiving students whose homeroom location instruction in math and learning is at CCC, and who are under the how to package the products for the instruction of Emeson and Chavez, customer, Emeson said. along with additional workers One three-year student is grateinstructing in a variety of areas ful for the donations and looks within the program. forward to the Three Seasons banThere are also two interpreters quet. available for deaf students.

“We like the items very much

and the gentleman was nice for doing this. We can sell the pottery so that we can go to the banquet luncheon. It was really appreciated,” three-year student Daniel Lloyd Massey said.

Students are encouraged to learn skills in buying and selling, thus the purpose of this event being named as an “Entrepreneur Project.” Students are stressed to become entrepreneurs.

“I think we have a good chance of selling items because it’s very nice pottery,” two-year student Stone Chandler said.

The sale lets the college community become acquainted with transition students and staff, and allows students and faculty to buy reasonably priced gifts, Emeson said.

“Selling is an art. You have to see the customer, smile and ask if they need help,” Chavez said. “It gets students out and it’s good for them.”

Contact The Advocate at letters.advocate@gmail.com.

Early Learning Center festival nets funds, gathers smiles

By Janit Saechao STAFF WRITER

The Fall Harvest Festival was held Nov. 20 at the Early Learning Center.

This festival marked the beginning of an annual event for the ELC. It was organized and hosted by the parents and families of the young students attending the Early Learning Center.

This event was organized in efforts to raise money for the ELC. Marva Lyons, director of the ELC, said, “The idea for this event originated from our parental advisory group. We wanted to come up with ideas to raise money for our children here.”

She said because of the budget cuts, it was necessary to think of an alternative to fund the Early Learning Center.

Lyons said all proceeds from the festival are going toward spring field trips to places such as the San Francisco Exploratorium and the San Francisco Zoo. They will also provide supplies for the children attending the ELC. The festival offered a variety of activities for both parents and children.

All activities were paid for in tickets. $1 was enough for one ticket whereas $20 was enough for 25 tickets.

Children exchanged tickets for games and prizes while parents were able to use tickets toward a turkey raffle. Food like hotdogs, cupcakes and nachos were also sold for tickets.

There were different booths set up around the halls and rooms of the Early Learning Center for children.

Student volunteers and parents ran games such as bowling and beanbag tosses.

Activities also included face painting, Henna, and Christmas stocking decorating.

Volunteer Elaine Dach, who is the grandmother of two children attending the ELC, was in charge of face painting.

Dach said, “There is a lot to be learned here. Before this festival, I didn’t know what Henna was. Now I do. It’s nice because the children can be exposed to different cultures.”

For parents, a silent auction was held throughout the Fall Harvest Festival.

A few items featured were children’s

toys, bike helmets and jewelry. There were also gift baskets for children that included school supplies and baskets for adults with an assortment of wine or teas.

Besides this, things such as gift cards, movie tickets and zoo passes were being put up for auction.

Lyons said, “All of these silent auction items were donated to us. I think it’s great that we are even able to auction off a month’s worth of music lessons to one of our children.”

Teresa Leung, parent coordinator of the Fall Harvest Festival and mother of three children who previously attended the ELC, said the event was essential to the center.

“The community is big. A lot of parents don’t realize this school is here.

Making the community aware that this wonderful facility is here is important,” Leung said.

“Being able to raise money and fund our school at the same time makes the event better.”

Contact Janit Saechao at jsaechao. advocate@gmail.com.

A6 THE ADVOCATE Unleashed

Movies

This week: “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” (PG) “The Tourist” (PG-13) “The Company Men” (R) “The Fighter” (R)

DVDs

This week: “Inception” (PG-13) “Shrek Forever After” (PG) “The Year of Getting to Know Us” (R) “Fox 75th Anniversary Collection” (NR)

CDs

New releases: Deadmau5: “4x4=12” Daft Punk: “TRON : Legacy Soundtrack” Redman: “Reggie” T.I.: “No Mercy” Plain White T’s: “Wonders of the Younger”

Games

New releases: World of Warcraft: Cataclysm (PC - T) TRON: Evolution (All Platforms - T) Duke Nukem Trilogy: Critical Mass (DS - T) SBK X: Superbike World Championship (PS3, XBOX360, PC - E10+) Editor’s note: This column lists popular new (and upcoming) releases for the week.

l WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010

SCENE

Play orients Knox Center ‘Guadalupe’ unites, promotes diversity

By Hilberth Ibarra STAFF WRITER

The performance “Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe” featured at the Knox Center from Dec. 1 through 4 successfully brought the community together.

CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE The play was written and Holy spirit — The little girl (Karyme Martin) listens to Juan Diego (Rex Marin) as he speaks about the Virgin directed by drama department de Guadalupe during “Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe” in the Knox Center on Dec 1.

Chairman Clay David with the intention of giving the Richmond on a journey to show her the oriit appear very real. the message of the play was so and San Pablo Latino communigin of the Virgin de Guadalupe.

For someone fluent in Spanish, universal and clear that they were ties a gift for the holidays, as well As she goes from place to place, the language was very clear and able to understand the heart of the as to highlight the importance she learns about the history of easy to understand. The education- performance. of diversity and bring people Mexico, from the Nahua, Toltec al content was impressive. From Anya De Paoli, a non-Spanish together. and Aztec civilizations, the little girl to Saint Juan Diego, speaker, said, “I thought it was an “(There) is nothing in to the Spanish conquest the actors with principle roles excellent play although it was in the Latino community for playreview and the significance of the were very passionate about their Spanish. The storyline was one the holidays and I wanted Virgin de Guadalupe. performances. that everyone would be able to to do a play about the At the end of the jourThe script seemed to be a little understand. I wouldn’t change Virgin de Guadalupe,” ney, she is led back to the slow moving, despite the fact anything. I wouldn’t even convert David said. “It is about church where the statues that the play was barely 30 minit to English. I thought it was great coming together.”

“Nuesta Senora kiss her good-bye and utes long.

Though the production in Spanish.”

The play lasted approxde Guadalupe” remind her that they will started a little later than scheduled, Similarly, Rolando and imately half an hour and ★★★★★ always look after her. Then everything else ran smoothly and Jonathon Argueta, father and son, Venue: Knox was performed in all Center one by one, the saints was well organized. respectively, and other Spanish Spanish.

Directed by: Clay turn back into statues just One thing that was rather innospeakers in the crowd also enjoyed The cast was made David before her mother comes vative was that after the play the the play. up of a diverse group of Open Until: Closed to get her. audience was invited to come up The father and son agreed, the actors from many differAs soon as people onto the stage and interact with costumes and scenery were great, ent ethnicities. walked into the Knox the cast. the acting was good, the Spanish The performance cenCenter, they were greeted They could talk and take picwas well spoken and the story was tered on a 3-year-old girl tures with the girl and the saints, very devoted. who did not know the story of the with colonial Mexican music and a warm “Buenas Noches.” providing a nice end to the perforThe entire performance, though Virgin de Guadalupe. One night, This allowed the audience to mance that brought the commushort, went very well, yet the she decides to stay and pray in her get into the mood of the play nity together. message of the play was the most church after mass. before it even began.

Along with the diversity of important part of the night.

As she begins her prayers, one The set, scenery and props the cast, the audience was also “It’s not about making money, of the statues in the church, Saint were exceptional. They looked so extremely diverse. There were it’s about coming together, about Juan Diego, comes to life and realistic that they made the Knox people of all different ethnicities, diversity and how important it is,” introduces her to the other saints at the church, including Saint Ines, Center feel like a Catholic church. cultural and religious backgrounds David said.

The costumes and make-up and ages.

Saint Teresa, Saint Francisco de Contact Hilberth Ibarra at hibarra.

Many members of the audience Asis and Saint Miguel Archangel. designed by professor David also advocate@gmail.com. helped to set the scene and make could not speak Spanish, however, Saint Juan Diego invites her

Comedy routines fizzle on stage Student humorists lack originality, fail to entertain crowd

By George Morin PHOTO EDITOR

POINT RICHMOND — It would have been nice to be able to say, “At least the food was good.”

However, when The Boilerhouse Restaurant took more than 45 minutes to serve a single order of garlic fries, it made a few pathetic and unprepared comedy acts much harder to sit through.

Students from the college’s drama department and other students who signed up performed what they considered to be short comedy acts in front of their family and friends at the Stand Up Comedy Show held at The Boilerhouse in the barren financial district of Point Richmond on Nov. 23.

Disregarding the extreme rudeeventreview ness of workers and bartenders scurrying around trying to help the audience, a few “Stand Up people seemed to Comedy Show” enjoy the comedy ★★★★★ acts, even though Headliner: Stand the majority Up Comedy Show lacked originality. Where: The Those just try- Boilerhouse Restaurant, Point ing to enjoy their Richmond meals shook their heads with looks of shock and disappointment.

The restaurant’s ambiance was very pleasing, but the extremely slow service to even be seen and helped for simply a glass of water was unreasonable. Some

CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE

Jokester — Contra Costa College student Cardellous Snell performs his comedy act during the Stand Up Comedy Show at the Boilerhouse in Point Richmond on Nov. 23.

tables were covered with crumbs and smear marks from previous patrons, but were not taken care of until about 30 minutes into the show. And that was not the worst of it.

The corny jokes and acts in the beginning of the event were almost unheard due to technical problems and the large groups of families conversing with one another rather than paying atten-

tion to the stage.

Some of the performers struggled on stage and, even with the crowd’s support, many to make an exit before their time elapsed.

This may be due to a lack of experience in performing in front of a crowd, but it also shows a huge lack of preparation.

The night was full of corny and recycled jokes, one after another.

“You have less of a shot of me

making a shot than Shaq making a free throw,” student Jashawn Fields said in his act.

“I’m as serious for your daughter as I am about my other two girlfriends,” student Manuel Santoyo said.

The comedians were nothing out of the ordinary and not very engaging to the audience. This event, although not very good as a comedy show, was a good way to get students out and in front of a crowd to get better at doing stand up.

Drama department chairman Clay David did a great job at promoting the event. It was exciting to see groups from the college working together with local businesses.

Though not very engaging or entertaining, the effort to get a bunch of the student body and locals together to enjoy one anothers’ companies was a success.

One of the last performers, Gaspar Bernal, gave a glimmer of hope that comedy was a part of the comedy night.

His off-hand jokes between awkward silences filled with his mellow guitar work reminded me of a similar comedic style

by Demitri Martin on Comedy Central.

His routine was the only thing that helped me enjoy my night while waiting 30 minutes for a glass of water.

There will be another Stand Up Comedy Show held tonight at the John and Jean Knox Center on campus, featuring many of the same performers. General admission is $5.

Hopefully this night will include some laughs.

Contact George Morin at gmorin. advocate@gmail.com.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

Squad struggles in Comet Classic they were able to attempt many second chance points SPORTS EDITOR as the Comets were absent rebounding. They were often If there was any desire to caught gazing at a loose ball score displayed by the wom- instead of reacting for the en’s basketball team this defensive rebound. past weekend, it would have “We weren’t crashing greatly improved its chances the boards,” Comet forward to at least win a consolation Monay Ray said. “We let trophy.

DVC outScoreBoard This season’s rebound us.”

Comet Classic, CCC conhowever was a Vikings 72 tinued to stay disaster for the Comets 62 aggressive on squad as it came the offensive up empty hand- Comets 77 side of the ball ed in the tour- T-Birds 36 as it used solid nament held in ball movement the gymnasium to confuse Gladiators 72 Dec. 2-4.

DVC’s defense.

P o o r Comets 38 By the end rebounding, of the first half c o o r d i n a t i o n Next game: the Comets problems, slow Thursdayheld a 38-26 defensive cov- Saturday tournalead over the erage and non- ment at Santa Vikings. sensical shoot- Rosa Junior The second ing held Contra College, times to half, however, Costa College be determined was a complete to only one vicmeltdown for tory in the tourthe Comets ney, that coming as the defense against a five-player squad. looked slow to close out on The team fell 72-62 to DVC’s perimeter shooters.

Diablo Valley College in the They again failed to grab opening round, beat Merritt defensive rebounds as the College 77-36 in the second Vikings received a majority and was dominated 72-38 by of their points from second Chabot College in the con- chances. solation-deciding match.

“We got too comfort“We are horrible on able coming into the second defense,” coach Paul DeBolt half,” guard Jamie Capoot said. “It’s as poor of a defen- said. “DVC was on its toes sive effort (the team) has put and we just sat back.” up in a long time.”

CCC’s offense looked Contra Costa College (1- lost as many of the players 5) opened up well defensive- were standing too close to ly in the first half against the each other instead of spreadVikings (4-0) as the Comet ing out. Its uncoordinated guards jumped DVC’s pass- offensive plays led to traveling lanes, nabbing steals and ing calls and poor passes. scoring on fastbreak points.

Despite a 23-point effort Despite poor shooting by guard Shay Mendes, sevdisplayed by the Vikings eral turnovers from dropped

By Malcolm Lastra

balls in the post and the constant lack of rebounding solidified the victory for DVC. “We must have had at least 20 rebounds in our hands that we let go,” DeBolt said. “We also have an inability to execute the offense or understand the offense. When someone gets the ball they just shoot it.”

Against Merritt (0-2), the Comets took advantage of the lack of players and led 41-15 at halftime.

CCC played aggressive offensively as it was able to get to the free throw line 22 times which helped seal a 77-36 victory, marking the team’s first win of the year.

In the final match for the consolation trophy, the Comets repeated the same mistakes as Chabot College exploited CCC’s defensive weaknesses as they were able to nail shots from the baseline which the Comet squad often left open.

The Comets had trouble grabbing rebounds as the Gladiators outrebounded the team 32 to 14.

Chabot led 38-21 at halftime.

Defensively, the squad was again slow as Chabot players were often open for perimeter shots, capitalizing on second chance points and attacking the Comets interior defense, getting to the free throw line.

“You don’t win big games if you cannot stop people defensively,” DeBolt said.

“There were about seven or eight possessions where Chabot was just toying with us.”

Inconsistent shooting continued to haunt CCC as players would shoot random

A7

SAM ATTAL/ THE ADVOCATE

Holding on — Comet center Chaz Ross-Reed (left) struggles to grasp the ball away from Chabot College forward Jarita Riley during the consolation round of the 17th Annual Comet Classic women’s basketball tournament Saturday. shots instead of moving the ball around, trying to establish any offensive plays.

The poor shooting enabled the Comets to score only 17 points in the second half as the Gladiators won 72-38.

After the game, Ray was presented an All-Tourney trophy for her efforts.

DeBolt said that he was proud of Ray’s consistency throughout the tourna-

ment primarily her work on the rebounds on which the Comets struggled.

“Monay is going to get better and she is our only consistent rebounder,” he said. “She currently leads our team in rebounds.”

The Comets look to improve as they will take part in the Santa Rosa Junior College Tournament Thursday through Saturday.

“I think this group lacks

true competitive desire,” DeBolt said. “When things go bad, instead of digging in and fighting, we continue to go with the flow. It’s a sign of inexperience. We have to get a better understanding of how to react to the adversity that naturally occurs during a game.”

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

TEAMS FALL SHY OF SEASON’S EXPECTATIONS C+ MEN’S

FOOTBALL

After finishing last year with only one win, the Comets entered the 2010-11 football season aiming to end their losing ways and revitalize the program under new coach Alonzo Carter.

Despite missing the playoffs, CCC finished the season 4-6 overall, 2-2 in the Bay Valley Conference, its best record since 2005.

The young Comet squad that was filled with mostly freshmen, began the season on a good note winning the first game against Monterey Peninsula College, something that CCC hasn’t accomplished since 2006.

During the season, CCC relied heavily on its defense, which was anchored by sophomore defensive end Niko Aumua, who finished the year as the BVC Defensive Most Valuable Player.

The Comets’ defense allowed an average of 24 points to the opposing team per game, nabbing 29 total sacks, 16 interceptions and 19 fumbles.

At times CCC struggled in establishing its offense as the offensive line allowed the quarterback to be either sacked or hurried into making poor throws.

Both the passing and running games were at times absent early in the season as the CCC running backs were always stopped for short gains and the wide receivers were inconsistent in catching the ball.

Chemistry also played a factor early in the season since many of the players were new to playing with each other, which would create confusion in trying to make a play.

Carter would often have to continue to motivate his players to stay positive in games as frustrations sometimes flared amongst the Comets, thus causing them to receive penalties.

As the season progressed, CCC’s chemistry improved, primarily in the passing game as quarterback Jeffery Anderson began to gel with receivers Jordan Morrow and Najee Lovett, who became his main targets.

Despite the offensive flaws, the Comets would continue to compete against opposing teams as they lost the majority of their games by 10 points or a single touchdown.

Along with improving their record, the Comets had a total of eight players make the All-BVC offense and defensive teams respectively.

The future will be bright for CCC if it can continue its defensive mentality, return several players along with creating a consistent offensive attack.

— Malcolm Lastra

WOMEN’S

SOCCER

D

The Contra Costa College women’s soccer team ended its season without a single victory, finishing the season in last place in the Bay Valley Conference.

The Comets’ record was 0-9-1 in the Bay Valley Conference and 0-16-1 overall.

CCC scored a mere six goals. In contrast, they had 81 goals scored against them.

Despite the negative numbers, the Comets had some positive moments throughout the season. The numbers do not tell the whole story. Many of the players were not only freshmen, but had never played competitive soccer before this season.

As a team, they were able to score some goals, tie a game and put together some good plays on the pitch.

They may not have won a single game, but there was much improvement from the beginning of the season to the end. This season was a growing season, one in which the team gained valuable experience.

Coach Nikki Ferguson gives the team credit for showing up and giving their best effort for the entire game, regardless of the result. They always kept a good attitude, played with heart and never quit.

— Hilberth Ibarra

SOCCER

C+

Another year has gone by as the Comets men’s soccer team falls short of a conference title and a playoff spot.

For the 2010 season, the Comets deserve a C+ because while having a decent conference record, their overall record did not look too good with 10 losses in 20 games. In addition, while the team did not play badly, there was not really anything spectacular about their play either.

The Comets were able to muster up a 6-4-2 Bay Valley Conference record with a 710-3 overall record. With that record, CCC earned 20 conference points, which placed the team in third place in its conference behind Yuba College and Merritt College.

The Comets began the season with a 6-0 win over College of the Redwoods on Sept.

4 at home. Unfortunately, that strong start did not last as the team lost four of its next five games.

A big change in the Comets’ season occurred when Nikki Ferguson took over as the team’s coach when Rudy Zeller took a leave of absence after five games. Though the coaching change did not affect the team’s performance, the players became more attackminded with Ferguson’s style of play.

Before conference play began, the Comets’ record was 1-4-1, but they were able get it together and went undefeated at home in conference games.

CCC’s offense scored 29 goals but its defense allowed 31 for the year.

While the Comets did not have a single player that stood out from the rest, the team had a good array of quality players on both sides of the field. With most of those players being freshmen, CCC looks like it might have a better season next year.

— Dariush Azmoudeh

VOLLEYBALL CAfter the sudden departure of former volleyball coach Azure’D Nunley during the offseason and the last minute re-hiring of Zachary Shrieve, Contra Costa College’s 2010 women’s volleyball season was off to a rocky start.

Expectations were already low due to last year’s 1-15 conference record and the Comets’ last place Bay Valley Conference finish.

This year, the team was under the tutelage of Shrieve and benefited from the on-court leadership and solid play from hitters Lynn Iosua, Melanie Raquel and setter Jazmine Mendoza.

Though they were short in stature they played tough and “scrappy,” as coach Shrieve would often say throughout the season.

The squad finished the season with a 4-12 record, which isn’t bad considering the recent history of the team; only being able to win three games in the last four years.

The Comets managed to string a couple of victories together before losing a tough conference match against Los Medanos College mid-season - a game that the team only managed to win the first set.

Shrieve has received good praise from his players and with a team of all freshmen he has managed to turn this once laughable squad into possible future Bay Valley Conference contenders.

— Rodney Woodson

Box scores Women’s basketball (Dec. 2) Diablo Valley College (72) Allen 7-13 3-7 25, Giles 0-0 1-2 1, Moore 9-21 1-2 21, Dehghan 2-4 0-0 4, Pillors 5-10 1-4 11, Newsome 3-9 4-5 10. Totals 2650 10-20 72.

Contra Costa College (62) Sullen 6-12 2-4 14, Capoot 4-9 4-6 12, Ross-Reed 3-9 1-2 7, Ray 0-7 0-0 0, Jefferson 0-0 0-0 0, Coss 2-5 0-0 6, Mendes 9-15 1-1 23. Totals 24-57 8-13 62.

Three-point goals Diablo Valley — Allen 3, Moore 2. Contra Costa — Mendes 3, Coss 2.

Fouled out Diablo Valley — none. Contra Costa — none.

Rebounds Diablo Valley 31 (Dehghan 11), Contra Costa 24 (Ray 6, RossReed 6).

Women’s basketball (Dec. 4) Chabot College (72) Davis 4-10 2-3 11, Dupart 0-3 0-0 0, Gipson 6-16 2-2 19, Bell 6-9 3-4 15, Caines 3-6 4-6 10, Riley 2-4 0-0 4, Tavake 0-1 0-0 0, Oglesby 6-7 1-1 13. Totals 27-63 13-17 72.

Contra Costa College (38) Sullen 3-6 0-3 7, Capoot 3-12 0-0 7, Ross-Reed 1-3 0-0 2, Ray 410 3-4 11, Jefferson 0-2 0-0 0, Coss 0-1 0-0 0, Mendes 1-6 4-6 7, Rucobo 1-6 1-2 4. Totals 13-46 8-15 38.

Three-point goals Chabot — Gipson 3, Davis 1. Contra Costa — Sullen 1, Capoot 1, Mendes 1.

Fouled out Chabot — none. Contra Costa — none.

Rebounds Chabot 32 (Gipson 8, Riley 8), Contra Costa 14 (Ray 4, Rucobo 4).

A8 THE ADVOCATE

SPORTS

l WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010

Shoddy play mars squad in tournament Team displays sluggish skill set

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Nowhere to go — Comet forward Cameron Cash looks for a way to make a shot against San Jose City College guard Fabian Sebastian at Diablo Valley College on Nov. 26.

Comet fall athletes deserve recognition S

chool spirit is often measured by W’s from school sports teams and expressed through participation and attendance at sporting events.

Before the fall sports season, the overall opinion from fellow students about Contra Costa College’s fall athletics was pretty much the same across the board…

People thought they were terrible.

Looking at last year’s fall sports records, I understand why the Comets were put down and often ridiculed.

With the exception of the men’s soccer team, fall sports were dismal last fall as the teams combined for 27 conference losses.

This season was a little bit different. Yes, there are plenty of losses and there is still room for improvement, but the Comets are gaining some ground in the win percentage column.

In a season where CCC had a new football coach, the women’s soccer coach performed double duty (also coaching the men’s soccer team) and the volleyball coach was hired just two weeks before the first game, you would be inclined to believe that the fall sports would get worse. But reality has been quite the contrary.

The football team, now coached by Alonzo Carter, finished 4-6 — an improvement of three wins. After coach Rudy Zeller’s sudden departure six weeks into

rodneywoodson the season, the men’s soccer team’s overall record stood at 1-4-1.

The Comets finished 710-3 after coach Nikki Ferguson assumed the position as coach. In the sports world, coaching changes are a roll of the dice.

For the men’s soccer team to have the record they did, despite the complications that came with a coaching change during a season, speaks a lot about the character, talent and professionalism of not only the coach but the players as well.

Volleyball coach Zachary Shrieve began his second tenure with the Comets this season.

His task was to improve a team whose conference record was 1-15 last year. At the close of this season the Comets conference record stands at 4-12, a slight improvement from last year.

But here are some things to consider: the coach’s late hiring, a team full of freshmen, a few volleyball newcomers and a team that for the most part was vertically challenged in a sport where height is an advantage.

As for women’s soccer, technically, they

got worse by half a game from last year.

Yet, overall our teams have shown improvement, and improvement deserves approval.

Here’s approval for those who are representing as Comets, for those who bang heads on gridirons, dive to dig balls on volleyball courts and endure 7 a.m. practices before school.

Here’s to those who gave it their all for 90 minutes running up and down a soccer field despite coaching issues, shin kicks, controversial calls and losing records.

This was the best fall sports season that CCC has had over the past few years. Are we destined for championship glory in the near future?

Who knows? I’m not Ms. Cleo, I can’t tell the future. But we are better.

Is it because of coaching or personnel changes?

Maybe.

But I do know I will be there to see the athletic improvement as it transpires, and hopefully you will, too. A majority of sports spectators tend to look at win-loss records to decide which bandwagon is the best to hop onto. I’ve never seen this many Giants fans in my entire life.

It’s time we change the sports world by leading a bandwagon starring our very own Comets.

Rodney Woodson is a staff writer for The Advocate. Contact him at rwoodson.advocate @gmail.com.

from forward Cameron Cash, who finished the game with 20 points.

“They (SJCC) played off of me and my shots were falling,” Cash said.

The Comets played better offenBy Rodney Woodson STAFF WRITER sively in the second half, scoring 37 points, but the first half deficit The Comets (0-3) lost two games proved to be too great for the Comets by the scores of 88-62 against to overcome.

San Jose City College and 74-49 The second game against Sierra against Sierra College because of a College was almost identical to their struggling offense and their oppo- loss against SJCC. Sierra’s defense nents’ tough defense at the Chevron was intense, forcing the Comets to Invitational men’s basketball tourna- commit 28 turnovers. ment on Nov. 26 and 27 at Diablo “Sierra had more size,” Johnson Valley College. said. “They Contra Costa College had a lot of ScoreBoard played its first game on Nov. length on the 26 against SJCC (3-4) scoring perimeter that Jaguars 88 on only 18 of 64 shots from affected our Comets 62 the field. shots.”

“We weren’t ready for the Ward said press,” CCC guard Bobby the Comets Wolverines 74 Ward said. SJCC’s full court were getting Comets 49 press stifled the Comets on the shots they inbound plays making it tough wanted offenNext game: for the Comets to push the ball sively, but Friday at San up the court. were unable Jose’, 5:30 p.m.

The Comets trailed at halfto knock them time 43-25. Coach Miguel down.

Johnson said the team needed S i e r r a ’s to attack the middle and try to get team roster consisted of seven playto the free throw line 20 to 25 times ers who were at least 6-3, includa game. ing 6-10 center Casey Arent. “We “We wanted to try to score in (CCC) couldn’t stop their big man,” the most efficient way possible,” Ward said. “They were unstoppable Johnson said. “(We needed to) be inside.” aggressive and try to keep the other During the game coach Johnson team in foul trouble so we can play made adjustments defensively by against their (reserves).” switching to a full court press. The Aside from facing a stifling full change helped to bring the Comets court press defense, Johnson said the to within 11 points of the Wolverines Comets put themselves in a bad posi- but were not able to continue the tion by not being disciplined and not strong effort. sticking to the game plan.

Cash said the team has to get a Because of disciplinary issues better understanding of the offense that took place before the tourna- and the defense. ment, Johnson said the team was The home team, Diablo Valley short handed, which meant a few College, won the tournament by team members were forced not only defeating Merritt College 58-46 in to play out of position, but also to the championship game. play more minutes than usual.

Contact Rodney Woodson at Though CCC struggled offensively, they did have a good contribution rwoodson.advocate@gmail.com.

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CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

CMYK

SPOTLIGHT

CMYK

SECTION

B

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010

Campus to offer textbook rentals

FOREVER CONNECTED

Spotlight Index:

Festive seasonal ideas given

Bookstore adopts alternative method

Charities, food, gifts suggested ◆ pages B4-B5

By Adam Oliver STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

through the system from entry level to the very top,” Academic Senate President Richard Akers said. “And through that process he was

Due to the forced frugality of many students resulting in a declining number of book sales, the Bookstore will be adding a rental program beginning with the spring semester to provide students with another, more economical, option.

Already facing stiff competition from corporate book chains and Amazon, the Bookstore created the rental program both to cut steep textbook costs and hopefully attract a great deal of student renters.

“Publishers have intentionally pushed themselves off the market,” Bookstore manager Janis Walsh said. “We’re the intermediaries, we’re not the villains. If anything, we have to think of creative ways to maintain our presence.”

The cost “Publishers have for rental of intentionally any book will be roughly pushed themselves half the cost off the market. of purchasing either the new We’re the interor used copy.

And considmediaries, we’re ering that book buy- not the villains. If back pays up anything, we have to 50 percent of the origi- to think of creative nal cost, rent- ways to maintain ing the book our presence.” instead of purchasing it Janis Walsh, to eventually Bookstore manager resell seems logical, book buyer Darris Crear said.

“Instead of getting the money back at the end of the semester, you’re just not paying as much up front,” Crear said.

“As an alumnus of the college I think it’s a great idea, I would go for it,” said Barbara Miles, mother to current theater student Irena Miles.

“It’s certainly more competitive,” ASU Vice President Rodney Wilson said. “I’m glad to see the Bookstore’s responding to the environment.”

Without having to pay as much money at the beginning, students will more likely be able to purchase their books on time or even register for more classes.

“This will help them get the book right at the beginning when they need it so that they’re prepared,” Crear said.

Though not all books will be available for rent, the Bookstore hopes to have as large of a selection as possible.

“We’re going to try and rent as much as we can,” Crear said. “There will be a list of books for rental.”

To rent, students will pick up a used or new copy of any rentable book from the

■ SEE GORDON: Page B2

■ SEE BOOKSTORE: Page B2

Winter movies previewed Snowy season flicks enthrall pages B7 ◆

CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE

Leaving a legacy — Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board President Anthony Gordon retired on Friday after spending more than 40 years with the district.

First half astounds audiences ‘Potter’ storyline foreshadowed ◆ page B8

NEW DIRECTIONS

Gordon leaves District Board role, plans for family time, easy

New club promotes culture Students plan for future events page B6 ◆

living

By Adam Oliver STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

It was nearly half a century ago while browsing a list of job opportunities while at Tuskegee Institute that Dr. Anthony Gordon stumbled upon an opening “at some college in San Pablo called Contra Costa.”

Dr. Gordon had no aspirations of teaching as a career goal and had actually planned on becoming a businessman, but decidedly applied for the vacant slot anyway.

While on his third year of active duty for the U.S. Army in 1964, Gordon received an invitation from then-president Ray Dondero to visit

Contra Costa College and potentially teach automotive mechanics.

Shortly after requesting a release from active duty, he returned to the states to pursue the opportunity in California and was happily hired. Little did he know that this college and the career of teaching, would be his itinerary to success.

From his humble beginnings teaching automotives and remedial math some 45 years ago, Gordon retired Friday from one of the most influential positions in the Contra Costa Community College District — Governing Board president.

“He is just someone who really worked his way

“(Gordon) held students to a standard and made them responsible.

Compassionate yet consistent, those are the qualities I hope to emulate.”

Frank Hernandez ,

senior dean of students

Religious beliefs, customs unveiled Outdoor session draws audience

and God will be able to show us the truth in seeking him. The purpose to life is to serve God and this can only come by obeying his laws.

Prophets were sent to give these laws to us men, to have the choice to

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW B

Márquez takes district position ◆ page B3

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

Only the facts — Speaker Mohammed Alwai speaks to students about the history of Islam and the Muslim tradition at the Islam Unveiled event held at the Amphitheater on Nov. 23. accept God. So in no way is Islam a demanding religion to others outside of the religion. You come to Islam because you wish to, not because you are made to,” Alawi said.

■ SEE ISLAM: Page B2

CMYK

Alumnus, educator selected

The event attracted a crowd of around 20 people. When the speakers moved from inside the Fireside Room to outside in the Amphitheater, more students were attracted to the event.

By George Morin PHOTO EDITOR ASU director Kelly Ramos made the decision to move the event outThe truths and misconceptions of side to attract more students. “It Islam were brought out in the open will give the club a better chance at at the Islam Unveiled forum in the being able to promote their ideas and Fireside Room on Nov. 23. awareness of their club,” she said.

The Muslim Student Union The event began with speaker (MSU) hosted the event in an effort Mohammed Alawi discussing the to promote information and help basics of the Islam religion and its answer questions that students may practices. have about Islam and Muslim tradi“We must start with the basics of tions.

Islam. The many misconceptions are “We want to clarify any miscon- pointless to discuss, because in realceptions about Islam and its practices ity they hold no truth,” he said. and give an opportunity for students He followed with more informaand non-Muslims to ask questions tion, focusing on the beliefs and ideabout Islam and Muslims,” MSU als of the religion. president Nagla Alammari said.

“We should use our whole self

CMYK

B2 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, DEC 8, 2010

SPOTLIGHT

Gordon | Mentor continues advising after retirement being shot,” Gordon said, “They ■ FROM: Page B1 didn’t do the gun thing then.” always a humanist.”

After taking a short hiatus to Gordon’s tenure at CCC includes teaching multiple fields of study, earn his doctorate in counseling and operating the mobile counseling cen- psychology from UC Berkeley in ter, serving as a full-time counselor, 1971, Gordon became a full-time head of his division, psychology counselor working in the Humanities department chairman and, lastly, as Building.

Throughout his 10 years as a an emeritus professor. counselor, Chosen Gordon

by Dondero in 1968 to “(Gordon) is just someone who i n f l u enced and launch the mobile coun- really worked his way through navigated seling centhe system from entry level countless students ter, Gordon would drive to the very top. And through t h r o u g h to a revamped that process he was always a CCC four-year mobile home humanist.” c o l l eg e s , throughout including Richmond the recently and San Richard Akers, Academic Senate president re-elected Pablo, counmayor of seling stuSan Pablo, dents “in their neighborhood (and) talking to them Genoveva Garcia Calloway, he said.

When he became a full-time proabout their issues,” Gordon said.

He would park the mobile home fessor of psychology in 1980, he in front of centers such as the North quickly gained the reputation as a Richmond Neighborhood House tough, “no nonsense” teacher.

“He held students to a stanand a few of the community centers previously located on Bissell dard and made them responsible,” Avenue, where he would encourage Hernandez said. “Compassionate yet individuals to pursue higher educa- consistent, those are the qualities I tion through their local community hope to emulate.”

Apart from faculty duties, Gordon college.

“He certainly took the message also served less formally as a mentor of CCC to the community,” Senior for both students and faculty alike.

“He was just a real mentor by his Dean of Students Frank Hernandez actions,” Dr. Akers said. “One of the said.

While working in the mobile reasons I stepped up to leadership counseling center, Gordon even had and responsibility was because that to chase down and tackle an assailant was the way I was mentored.”

Highly educated himself, Gordon who robbed a woman of her purse, for which he succeeded and received inspired students to achieve academically and to continue their education much appreciation.

“In those days you could chase a as a route to success, CCC President guy down without worrying about McKinley Williams said.

“If there is an equalizer, education is the best road to quality and justice,” Hernandez said. “Tony believed in that. He was one of the individuals that I learned from.”

After working as an emeritus professor for six years after retiring from full-time teaching, Gordon continued his service to the district by running unopposed for the Governing Board.

Taking the next step in his career of progression, Gordon was a serious and dedicated member and a strong board president, Williams said.

“It’s not easy being a board chair.

He gave good advice and was pretty much on his toes the whole term,” Governing Board Trustee Sheila Grilli said.

“I’m one of the people who read every word of the board report,” Gordon said. “It is one of the high points of my life. I really enjoyed my work on the board.”

However, before beginning his extensive service to the college and district, Gordon was born and raised just over 2,000 miles away in Monroe, La. After graduating from high school, Gordon attended Tuskegee University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical industries in 1960. Nearly four decades later, Gordon was awarded the consummate honor of Tuskegee national alumni of 1999.

Gordon was notified to report for active duty in June 1961, a time of racial prejudice only a dozen years after Truman integrated the military in 1948, he said.

While still in the military, Gordon married his wife Myrna in 1962, who he had met at Tuskegee University.

Now retired, Gordon hopes to catch up on forgotten hobbies and

Islam | Forum enlightens could have attracted more He left the crowd with students, but this did not disthese words: “He (God) must courage her or the club.

“It’s difficult to attract show respect to all people, students the message to come to is based on these events. the human “I was able to As long as condition, learn a lot about one person is our identity is informed on our relationIslam and the the truths of ship with our Muslim tradiour religion, creator. This is something tions. (The event) then it was a success,” she we can all stand by. The presented a lot of said. was Islamic reliinformation to me able“I to learn gion is based on love and that I had no idea a lot about Islam and peace most of existed” the Muslim all.” traditions,” G r o u p Mario Calubaquib, student Maria prayer and student Calubaquib song ended said. the event. “(The event) presented a According to Muslim Student Union Vice President lot of information to me that Nehayah Aluajar, the event I had no idea existed.”

■ FROM: Page B1

The MSU hopes to have more of these awareness events in following semesters.

“We want the student body to know and be comfortable with the major diversity around this campus and how beautiful it truly is, so we’re going to continue to try to have these events,” Aluajar said.

Student reaction to the event seemed excited for future forums of its kind as well.

“It would be great to have more of these forums in the future. I can’t wait to see who the next speaker is. This one was very engaging and informative,” Calubaquib said.

will try not to keep too busy, he said.

“I’ve got to improve my golf game, my swing is terrible,” he said.

He will spend much more of his time with family, living with his wife, visiting his daughter Carole and 7-year-old granddaughter Megan in Phoenix, Ariz., and his son Anthony in Los Angeles.

Gordon will continue to be an active member of the Easter Hill United Methodist Church, and remain part of the Easter Hill Methodist men’s group where he continues to mentor youth.

Though retired, Gordon’s deeprooted connection to the college would seem nearly impossible to sever.

“I don’t think he’ll give up the total relationship with the college, it’ll just morph into something different,” Hernandez said.

And so it will. Gordon said he will enroll in the same aerobics class he’s taken the last 10 or 15 years and frequent the Fitness Center.

“As long as there’s an aerobics course and Fitness Center, I’ll be here at least two times a week,” he said.

He may even take some computer courses to better familiarize himself with technology and the Internet, and perhaps endeavor to tweet or use Facebook, Gordon said.

Wherever life in retirement may take him, the mark Gordon left on the college through the people he affected will continue to influence, Akers said.

“Dr. Gordon is just a part of the fabric of this institution forever,” Hernandez said.

The Gordon file Anthony Gordon received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical industries from Tuskegee University in Alabama in 1960 and his doctorate in counseling and psychology from UC Berkeley in 1971.

In 1964, Gordon leaves the U.S. Army and accepts a job in Contra Costa College to teach automotive mechanics.

At CCC, Gordon served as a teacher in multiple fields of study, operating the mobile counseling center, serving as a full-time counselor, head of his division, psychology department chairman and an emeritus professor.

Gordon is originally from Monroe, La. where he was born and raised.

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

Bookstore | Text rentals ■ FROM: Page B1

shelf and proceed to the register as in any other transaction, and then ask to rent it.

Though the payment for the rental may be made in cash, a bank card must be attached to the rented book to secure its return. When returned, the book must be in good condition with no moisture or water damage.

Though the Bookstore will not gener-

ate as much profit as it would from selling books, Walsh said it is a necessary change that will make a big difference for students.

“It’s going to bring down the gross revenue, but that is not our purpose,” Walsh said.

“We exist to provide a service for students.”

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

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$11,000 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS! Transfer Students with 15 credits or more are eligible

Contact George Morin at gmorin.advocate@gmail. com.

CLASSES YOU NEED,

Fall semester Final Exam Schedule Final examination week at Contra Costa College is Saturday through Dec. 19. All final exams must be given in accordance with the following schedule.

The first hour and first day of the week a class meets determines the time and date of the course’s final exam.

Example: If a class meets from 9:10-10:00 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, look at the first schedule below. The final will be on Dec. 15, from 9-11 a.m.

Classes which meet MWF, MW, MTWTh, Daily If class begins at: The final exam is on: 8:10/8:40 a.m.

Monday, 8-10 a.m.

9:10/9:40 a.m.

Dec. 15, 9-11 a.m.

10:10/10:40 a.m.

Monday, 10 a.m. to noon 11:10/11:40 a.m.

Dec. 15, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

12:10/12:40 p.m.

Monday, noon to 2 p.m.

1:10/1:40 p.m.

Dec. 15, 1-3 p.m.

2:10/2:40 p.m.

Monday, 2-4 p.m.

3:10/3:40 p.m.

Dec. 15, 3-5 p.m.

WHEN YOU NEED THEM. No Fee to Apply Online for Spring 2011

Classes which meet Tuesdays and Thursdays If class begins at: The final exam is on: 8:10/8:40 a.m.

Tuesday, 8-10 a.m.

9:10/9:40 a.m.

Dec. 16, 9-11 a.m.

10:10/10:40 a.m.

Tuesday, 10 a.m. to noon 11:10/11:40 a.m.

Dec. 16, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

12:10/12:40 p.m.

Tuesday, noon to 2 p.m.

1:10/1:40 p.m.

Dec. 16, 1-3 p.m.

2:10/2:40 p.m.

Tuesday, 2-4 p.m.

3:10/3:40 p.m.

Dec. 16, 3-5 p.m.

Classes that meet once a week will hold final exams during regular class hours.

Night classes Evening classes that meet after 4 p.m. will hold final exams during regular class hours.

Conflict resolution day Final exam times which conflict may be held on Dec. 17.

Note: If the Final Exam Schedule does not meet your needs, contact the division dean.

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SPOTLIGHT

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

Márquez to bring new strategies Strong leader to take seat on Ward 1 board

“It’s hard for a lot of people to brings things to fruitition, but you can darn well bet John will do what he says — he’s got integrity.”

By Cody McFarland SCENE EDITOR

Alumnus and former professor of Contra Costa College John E. Márquez is once again working with the college to lay out a better future for education. But this time it’s from the District Office in Martinez.

Márquez ran uncontested in the November election to secure a four-year term on the Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board representing Ward 1, which encompasses West County, spanning from Richmond and San Pablo to the Alameda County border in Albany.

With a combination of 41 years of volunteer and professional experience, Márquez is described by friends and colleagues as a well-rounded and adept educator, politician, rights activist and member of the community.

“John’s been at it a long time,” Senior Dean of Students Frank Hernandez said.

“Being elected to serve at the district marks a new turn in his career. I think he will bring the perspective of West County to the district board.”

Former state assemblyman Robert Campbell also considers Márquez a strong supporter of West County, adding that the county and college “really need an advocate like John.”

Márquez said he is currently seeking new ways to secure revenue for renovations and improved classroom quality.

“I intend to bring classroom experience to the board to make the college better for students,” he said. “I may sit on a board of five, but I want to see what I can do as an individual to represent Ward 1.”

Even with limited funds, Márquez is perfectly capable of operating at a grassroots level, Hernandez said.

“The fiscal uncertainty we’re experiencing is not going to get better and John will prove to be invaluable during these tough times,” he said.

“It’s hard for a lot of people to bring things to fruition, but you can darn well bet John will do what he says – he’s got integrity.”

Márquez was born on Sept. 24, 1939 in Taos County, N.M. The son of a migrant farm worker, he lived on his grandfather’s small farm before moving to Bishop, Calif. in 1955.

He joined the U.S. Army in 1957, where he served as a paratrooper in the infantry and Military Police Corps. In 1958, he

B3

Frank Hernandez,

senior dean of students

GEORGE MORIN / THE ADVOCATE

A man of integrity — Alumnus and former professor of Contra Costa College John E. Márquez secured a seat on the Contra Costa College District Governing Board representing Ward 1. He ran unopposed in the November election. served in Beirut, Lebanon, under hostile conditions and was awarded the American Expeditionary Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in August 1960.

Hernandez said he met Márquez at CCC

in the late 1960s, when Márquez was an ambitious re-entry student “very much a part of the student movement of the time.”

He reminisced about their activism in rallying Latino students to picket alongside

César Chávez and migrant farm workers during the grape and lettuce boycott in the early 1970s.

Before receiving an associate of arts degree from CCC in 1970, Márquez acted as a co-founder of the Latin American Student Union and of La Raza studies department.

“I worked with outreach groups to educate the community and recruit more Spanish students for the college,” he said.

He went on to receive a bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University in 1971.

The nighttime graduate courses Márquez attended at Cal State-Hayward and San Jose State University earned him a California Community College Teaching credential, qualifying him to teach Spanish, psychology, and ethnic studies.

He began teaching in La Raza studies department at CCC off and on, later becoming a part-time instructor in 1993. He taught political science and Spanish within the department until he retired last summer.

“John placed emphasis on the issues surrounding minority students in colleges throughout the state,” Campbell said. “He is very much involved with students because he’s willing to listen to them.”

Campbell has worked closely with Márquez in the past and considers him a close friend. The two have been in politics together off and on since 1975, Campbell said, when Márquez worked as a human relations specialist for the city of Richmond.

By 1985, Márquez was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Richmond City Council. For his first 14 years in office, Márquez was the first and only Latino to serve on the council, Campbell said.

Márquez was later elected to the Executive Board of the California Democratic Central Committee representing Congressmen George Miller and Campbell, and was also elected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1988 representing the 7th Congressional District.

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

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B4 THE ADVOCATE

SPOTL

l WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010

Charities give to less fortunate Family Support Services of the Bay Area

Sleep Train Mattress Centers

Family Support Services of the Bay Area provides support to parents and caregivers of vulnerable children. For the holiday season, it gives people the opportunity to participate in sponsoring a family.

The group’s goal is to be able to support parents and caregivers in creating a healthy and positive holiday experience for their children.

One way to help is by donating gift cards to places such as Wal-Mart, Target or Safeway, or giving public transportation passes. These are distributed by the organization to families.

There is also the option of sponsoring a family, being able to shop for each family member and fulfill their holiday wish list. This giving program is anonymous. To sponsor a family in the East Bay, contact Moana Newman at 510-834-2443, ext. 3034. To sponsor a — Cassandra Juniel family in San Francisco, contact Jayden Donahue at 415-861-4060, ext. 3012. Or for more information, log onto fssba-oak.org.

Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano — Janit Saechao The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano counties has been serving the community for 35 Children’s Hospital and Research Center, years. It provides food to more than 132,000 hungry Oakland people in need every month directly at community sites and through a network of 180 charitable agenChildren’s Hospital and Research Center, located cies. The Food Bank works to reduce food waste, at 747 52nd Street in Oakland, depends on donafeed hungry people and raise public awareness of tions of toys and supplies so that it can continue to issues related to food and hunger. You can conprovide activities for children and entertainment to tribute to a local food bank online. Donations are their patients. Patients range in age from newborns also accepted directly on location. A helping hand to teens. The hospital welcomes items for children is always appreciated and a variety of volunteerand is especially in need of items for teens and ing efforts are available for people of all ages. For babies. Contact Children’s Hospital Foundation at more information, you may call them at 1-800-870- 510-428-3814 to schedule a donation delivery. The FOOD. Nearest food bank locations are located at hospital’s foundation accepts in-kind donations at its 4010 Nelson Ave. in Concord and 1891 Woolner downtown Oakland offices at 2201 Broadway, Suite Ave., Suite 1, in Fairfield. Log on to its website at 600. Its website: www.childrenshospitaloakland.org/ www.foodbanksccs.org. join/join_other-donations.asp.

Sleep Train Secret Santa Toy Drive is going on now. Although the holidays should be a magical time for all children, nearly 80,000 California foster children are separated from their family and friends, making the holidays an especially difficult and lonely time. To help make a foster child’s holiday wish come true, bring a gift of new, unwrapped toys or games to any Sleep Train location and it will be matched with a foster child in need. Remember, foster children come in all sizes; age-appropriate gifts for infants, toddlers, youths and teens are needed.

You may also make a secure donation online and it will go directly to purchasing goods for foster children, or you can always drop off your donation to any store. The nearest Sleep Train Mattress Centers store is located at 3300-C Klose Way, Richmond.

For more information, the Richmond location can be contacted at 510-758-4582. Or, you may log on to www.sleeptrain.com/local-foster-kids.aspx.

— Cassandra Juniel

— Cassandra Juniel

The Family Giving Tree The Family Giving Tree grants the exact wishes of low-income children along with providing them with backpacks full of school supplies. Different businesses, companies and schools host Holiday Wish Drives for the cause, making the act of giving more convenient. While the organization itself is located in Milpitas, there are various locations throughout the Bay Area that are hosting drives.

Stop by and drop off school supplies in the bin.

Another way to help out through Family Giving Tree is to register to host a drive or for an opportunity to be more hands-on, Family Giving Tree also welcomes Holiday Warehouse Elves through the month of Dec. to sort, package and distribute gifts to children. Participating locations, company or volunteer registration and additional information can be found at familygivingtree.org.

— Janit Saechao

Dishing up holiday meals, festive feasts, celebratory treats Peking Duck

Chinese dumplings (Jiaozi) Ingredients: Jiaozi dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups cold water 1/4 teaspoon salt Filling: 1 cup ground pork or beef 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or dry sherry 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper, or to taste 3 tablespoons sesame oil 1/2 green onion, finely minced 1 1/2 cups finely shredded Napa cabbage 4 tablespoons shredded bamboo shoots 2 slices fresh ginger, finely minced 1 clove garlic, peeled and finely minced Preparation: Stir the salt into the flour. Slowly stir in the cold water, adding as much as is necessary to form a smooth dough.

Don’t add more water than is necessary. Knead the dough into a smooth ball. Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

While the dough is resting, prepare the filling ingredients. Add the soy sauce, salt, rice wine and white pepper to the meat, stirring in only one direction. Add the remaining ingredients, stirring in the same direction, and mix well.

To make the dumpling dough: knead the dough until it forms a smooth ball. Divide the dough into 60 pieces. Roll each piece out into a circle about 3 inches in diameter.

Place a small portion (about one level tablespoon) of the filling into the middle of each wrapper. Wet the edges of the dumpling with water. Fold the dough over the filling into a half moon shape and pinch the edges to seal.

Continue with the remainder of the dumplings.

To cook, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add half the dumplings, giving them a gentle stir so they don’t stick together. Bring the water to a boil, and add a half cup of cold water. Cover and repeat. When the dumplings come to a boil for a third time, they are ready. Drain and remove.

If desired, they can be pan-fried at this point.

—Roy Chan

Sweet Potato Pie

Ingredients: One 5 to 6 pound duck 8 cups water 1 slice ginger 1 scallion, cut into halves 3 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 tablespoon sherry 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch, dissolved in 3 tablespoons water Scallions for garnish Preparation: Clean duck. Wipe dry and tie string around neck.

Hang duck in cool, windy place for four hours.

Fill large wok with water. Bring to boil. Add ginger, scallion, honey, vinegar and sherry. Bring to boil.

Pour in dissolved cornstarch. Stir constantly.

Place duck in large strainer above larger bowl. Scoop boiling mixture over duck for about 10 minutes.

Hang duck again in cool, windy place for six hours until thoroughly dry.

Place duck breast-side-up on a greased rack in oven preheated to 350 degrees. Set a pan filled with 2 inches of water in bottom of oven (for drippings). Roast for 30 minutes.

Turn duck and roast for 30 minutes more. Turn breast-side-up again.

Roast 10 minutes more.

Use sharp knife to cut off crispy skin. Serve meat and skin immediately on a pre-warmed dish.

The duck is eaten hot with hoisin sauce rolled in Mandarin Crepes.

Garnish with scallion flowerets.

Serves four to six people.

—Roy Chan

Ingredients: 1 (1 pound) sweet potato 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup white sugar 1/2 cup milk 2 eggs 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 9-inch unbaked piecrust Preparation: Boil sweet potato for 30-35 minutes.

Let potato cool, and then remove skin. After removing skin, blend potato with beater.

Mix and stir in sugar, milk, butter and eggs.

Pour mixed batter into unbaked piecrust, bake at 350 degrees until the knife insert in the center becomes clean.

—Lamar James Mac and Cheese Ingredients: 1 8-oz. box of elbow macaroni, cooked and drained 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 2 cups milk Salt and pepper. to taste 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Boil macaroni noodles in pot with 2 cups of water.

Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan before adding flour. Stir floor constantly to remove lumps. Pour in the milk and cook until sauce has thickened, then add cheese and stir in until it is melted. Transfer noodles to baking pan, pour in sauce and bake for 20-35 minutes.

—Lamar James

LIGHT

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

B5

Gear to help prevent winter chills Coats, boots, hats provide warmth while keeping with good fashion sense Pea coats

Headgear

Pea coats are “in” for the season and they are basically a classic look that anyone can pull off. They are unisex, and it is suggested that everyone have at least one pea coat in the closet. Their humble size and the fact they are usually made out of wool makes them perfect for these chilly days. Originally, these coats came just in a navy-blue color and were worn only by men who were a part of European navies. Now, pea coats can be found in several different clothing stores, in all sorts of hues and various patterns. You can find them as inexpensive as $20. However, designer brands like Kenneth Cole can go up to about $150. The doublebreasted fronts to pea coats are not only unique to this particular jacket, but are also simplistic and stylish.

Headgear is very important in trying to stay warm for the winter. The average price of an authentic baseball cap, basketball or football hat is usually between $30 and $50, depending on its customization appearance. The price for a beanie cap is around $20. Some popular brands that will be in demand are Nautica, Sean John, Nike and many more. The earlier the purchase, the more satisfaction will be acquired for that special person this holiday season.

—Jermaine Harrison Hoodies Hoodies are a very popular asset to have, especially when it’s cold outside. A lot of students wear hoodies with the name of their college or their favorite team from a particular sport on the front. They may also wear a hoodie that matches the colors they are wearing. Hoodie prices range from $10 to $30, depending on what type it is or the type of store it’s at.

—Faythe Del Rosario Boots

Jeans are an important part of many people’s wardrobes.

Nowadays jeans have twists to their appearances, style or origin such as skinny jeans, baggy jeans or simply jeans of common interest. Some brands are Coogi, Apple Bottoms, Sean John and South Pole. Prices range for these items listed above from $50 to $100.

You can stomp into the holiday season with the latest thing to hit fashion. Boots are not only worn as protection and to ward away the icy ground from one’s feet, but they are also fashionable and come in all sorts of styles and colors.

There are combat boots (which have became popular again among young people), riding boots and the simple suede boots. People can wear boots with every outfit, although they look quite chic with a mini skirt or dress and a pair of sheer tights in a bold or neutral color. Boots can be found at any store, although quality could determine the price.

Boots made out of suede are usually much cheaper than boots made of real leather. They also come at different lengths; there are some that come up just above the ankle, and there are others that are just long enough that they hit just under one’s kneecap.

—Jermaine Harrison

—Faythe Del Rosario

—Jermaine Harrison Jeans

EASY GIFT IDEAS FOR CLUELESS SHOPPERS Mini Remote Control Cars

Headphones

Price: $9.99-$16.99 Where: Toys R Us, Big 5, Wal-Mart Who: Kids, potential future NASCAR drivers Why: For those who have younger siblings or children and don’t know what to surprise them with for Christmas at an affordable price, mini remote control cars can be the solution gift. Mini remote control (RC) cars have been a child favorite in recent years, so purchasing this gift for a kid would not be a mistake.

These small cars pack a lot of speed, as a child can spend several hours controlling their mini vehicle. Along with the car and remote control, batteries are typically included so one doesn’t have to spend an extra two to three dollars purchasing batteries. The only negative to this gift is the size of the car, as it can be stepped on if not careful.

— Malcolm Lastra

E.L.F Essential Gift Pack Price: $20 Where: eyeslipsface.com Who: Young women Why: This is a great gift to consider for any female friend, family member or girlfriend that enjoys applying makeup to further her beauty. E.L.F. (Eyes, Lips, Face) provides ladies with good quality makeup at reasonable prices. If you are the type of person who does not know what is what when it comes to beauty products, have no worries — the pack comes with various pre-selected items to keep your indecisive and unaware mind on top of the curve of giftgivers. This gift pack contains 13 pieces that can neatly fit into a gold colored makeup bag that is also provided. Some of the items that are included are two eye shadow pallets, lip-gloss, three small bottles of nail polish and three different brushes used to apply makeup to the eyes and face. At $20, you cannot go wrong with a gift as simple as makeup.

— Faythe Del Rosario

Snuggie Price: $9.99-$14.99 Where: Target, Walgreens Who: Pets, everyone

DVDs

Price: $3.99-$19.99 Where: Best Buy, Radioshack, Target Who: Anyone who likes music Why: ipods and MP3 players are becoming a necessity for people of all ages in today’s society. Because of the digital audio players’ rise in popularity, a reasonable gift to compliment the listening device would be a pair of headphones. Coming in different styles, such as earbuds and over-the-head headphones, one can find a set that fits more comfortable for them. The most popular brands for a higher price are Sony, Bose and Panasonic, but off-brand headphones for a cheaper price would also be suitable. A problem that headphones may have is their duration of sound as cheaper headphones become sound deprived more quickly than higher priced headphones.

— Malcolm Lastra

Price: $9.99-$19.99 Where: Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart Who: People with televisions and DVD players Why: DVDs are a good gift when it comes to someone who is difficult to get a gift for. All that needs to be known is the person’s favorite movie, actor or genre.

Some of this year’s hottest movies on DVD, like “Iron Man 2,” “Toy Story 3” and “Inception,” would make great gifts for this holiday season. Along with movies, TV series also make great DVD gifts. Just get the person’s favorite TV show on DVD and it will allow them to watch their favorite episodes of the season over and over again.

— Dariush Azmoudeh

Chia pet Price: $15-$20 Where: Wal-Mart, Amazon.com Who: Anyone, gardeners Why: A cheesy gift idea would be a Chia Pet, a clay pot shaped in the form of your favorite animal, president or cartoon character.

When you add seeds it grows “hair” made out of grass. Chia Pets are a great gift for a White Elephant event or as a gag gift. They are relatively inexpensive with most stores selling them for under $20. You can buy them online or in your local drug stores like Walgreens or home improvement stores, like The Home Depot.

They can be grown indoors all year round and make good projects for kids. They come in a variety of animals and characters, Chia Puppy, Chia Cat as well as Chia Scooby Doo, Chia Sponge Bob Squarepants and Chia Homer Simpson.

— Hilberth Ibarra

Why: It is a practical gift to give anyone for the winter holidays, and it may give the person a giggle when they unwrap it. Snuggies are fleece blankets with sleeves. While they are similar to a terry-cloth bathrobe, they are worn in the opposite way in the attempt to keep you warm while doing your favorite activities.

There are a lot of different patterns and colors you can choose from before making your purchase; for example, there are Snuggies in camouflage, leopard and tie-dye. There is a princess pattern for the young female child that may be your sister or niece. While the fabric is thin and the concept is somewhat goofy, the smiles that you will receive would be worth the few dollars you spent on it. These blankets come in all sorts of sizes and you can even find some for your small dog to keep them warm during the cold nights.

Why: Legos have always been a gift with which children can spend countless hours playing.

They can follow the instructions to build what is on the box or follow their imaginations and build something of their own. Legos are physically tiny building blocks, but they also serve as building blocks to a child’s imagination. Along with their own series, Lego also offers specialty themed toys from “Star Wars,” “Batman” and many more.

— Faythe Del Rosario

— Dariush Azmoudeh

Legos Price: $9.99-$19.99 Where: Target, Toys R Us Who: Kids

B6 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, DEC 8, 2010

Fleming exits with history of dedication

SPOTLIGHT

Retiree looks to continue giving

accepting its services, though since a few years ago, due to a budget downfall, the program has been declining in the number of its employees, Fleming said.

“Once we learn how to deal

By Alexandra Waite NEWS EDITOR with the disability, we learn how to accommodate (the student),” Thirty-one years ago, professor Steffes said. “We kind of level the and learning disabilities special- playing field. We don’t give them ist Peggy Fleming was the only an advantage over students.” employee working in the Disabled While working with students, Students Programs and Services Fleming found the biggest need Office. was funding the program to help “ ( T h e them transition. development then steered “She’ll be missed. theShe of DSPS) was program so it very exciting,” (Peggy) has been shifted to being heavFleming said. ily based on instruc“Community here the longest and tion. colleges had Fleming said she has all the knowljust started likes the diversity of edge about every- the students at CCC developing their (DSPS) thing. That is a big and the appreciation programs. they have for learnBefore, com- loss of knowledge.” ing. munity col“(Fleming) talks Richard Stollings, leges did not to students about instructional assistant have anything what type of classes for disabled to take. If they have students.” learning disabilities, She was there by herself for she tells them what they need to the first 10 years of the program, take to be successful. She also from 1979 to 1989, until a teaching teaches classes geared toward stuassistant was hired. dents with disabilities,” Steffes After three decades of hard said. work and dedication put into a Colleagues of Fleming view her program she brought to maturity, as professional and diligent, yet Fleming will retire at the end of laid back. this semester.

“She is an organized person,” Fleming began working at Steffes said. “Her students will Contra Costa College in 1979 miss her. She really does all that when she started teaching classes she can to help her students sucand assessing students’ learning ceed.” abilities.

Instructional assistant Richard “It was a one-person office Stollings said she is knowledgeback then,” alternative media spe- able, easy going, and concerned cialist Teresina Steffes said. “She about the welfare of the students. was all of DSPS.” “(Working with Peggy has DSPS is a program that pro- been) very rewarding, interesting vides services to help students with at times and helpful. We work learning, physical and psychologi- together very well. My job is to cal disabilities, and also increase assist her in any way possible,” their access to vocational and edu- Stollings said. cational programs and opportuniFleming plans on dedicating ties, Steffes said. the rest of her life to charity and Fleming said working in DSPS volunteer work. by herself was difficult, as she had She is currently joining the to spend a lot of time assessing Assistance League, which is a students and teaching, while hold- national non-profit volunteer orgaing the program together. nization where local chapters aim The program now has about to meet changing needs in their 1,200 students as a part of it and communities.

CHRISTIAN SOTO / THE ADVOCATE

Packing it up — Professor and learning disabilities specialist Peggy Fleming leaves Contra Costa College after 31 years of hard work and commitment.

Her most recent charity-related accomplishments include knitting 25 scarves for the Saint Anthony Foundation in San Francisco, which plans to collect 2,500 handmade scarves by Christmas and hand them out at a Christmas meal for the poor and homeless, and making pillowcases for Conkerr Cancer, a project that sends pillowcases to seriously ill children.

“I think that everyone should give back to the community,” Fleming said. “Now that I have

some extra time, I will do all the charity work I can.”

She will also continue to assist DSPS by giving $5,000 a year to the DSPS scholarship program.

There are a lot of disabled students who deserve the money and are trying hard to acclimate and succeed, she said.

Outside of charity work, her hobbies involve several forms of exercise such as hiking, walking, sewing, knitting and photography.

After retiring, Fleming hopes

to spend time traveling to different countries.

At the moment, she has her eyes set on Switzerland and visiting a relative she has never met before in Argentina.

“She’ll be missed,” Stollings said. “(Peggy) has been here the longest and has all the knowledge about everything. That is a big loss of knowledge.”

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

International club promotes culture, fun Foreign students plan to educate

Families making less than $35,000 for a family of four may obtain government assistance for fee wavers, but international students do not qualify no matter how little they make.

By Cheuk Ko STAFF WRITER Even so, Kawi, who lives with her aunt, says that it is not all disThe International Student Union heartening. “Sometimes my paris a new club on campus that gives ents send money from my country,” international students a place to she said. meet and chat about issues they The club raises money by sponface. soring events that showcase differA focal point of the club is how ent cultures. international students are educated, Vice President Daniela del Pinal accordsaid, “We do fun ing to club activities like eatP r e s i d e n t “Through this club, they ing international Rebecca foods and watch(international students) ing foreign films Yang. “ W e get the maximum amount and talking about are a club the different focused on of help out of this school’s places our interthe edustudents resources. By offering national cation of are from. We plan them scholarships, they events that show international students,” views; are getting the most out of different Yang said. how the world “Through views dance, their money.” this club, music, language they (interand food.”

Teresina Steffes, national Teaching culalternative media specialist students) tural relativity is get the not all the club maximum amount of help out of does; it also advocates on behalf of this school’s resources. By offering international students by changing them scholarships, they are getting the way domestic students view the most out of their money,” she the world. said.

“Educating our students about That’s good news for members, different cultures around the as it is mandatory that International world,” del Pinal said, is important students take 12 units per semester as it helps foreign students by helpat $214 per unit. ing them make new friends.

Paying around $3,000 for the The club is also meant for fall semester alone, Supreet Kawi, students born in another country does not qualify for a fee waiver, but with citizenship in the United as international students do not States, although American-born receive government assistance. students who are interested in parAt 14 units this semester, Kawi ticipating in the club are welcome is paying a little more than 10 times to join too. the amount that domestic students Anyone can join, as the club is are paying for the same education. not meant for international students And for some domestic students only. who qualify for financial aid, that According to Yang, “It’s a very same education may be free. inclusive club; we don’t discrimi-

nate.” Discrimination is what the club strives against. “We are here trying to eliminate racial prejudice and racism,” del Pinal said.

She cites that as the club’s ultimate objective.

The club meets every other Wednesday at around 2:30 p.m. in

the Student Activities Building.

The club helps bring people together, letting people meet others from a different background than they would generally not come across.

“It is about knowing the people we would normally miss; meeting ADVERTISEMENT

international students,” Yang said.

Supporting international students is the main focus of the club, she said.

Contact Cheuk Ko at cko. advocate@gmail.com.

SCENE

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010 l THE ADVOCATE

Season welcomes hot flicks

B7

The Advocate previews upcoming movies for the 2010-11 winter season “The Green Hornet”

Genre: Superhero, Action Release Date: Jan. 14 Rating: NR Director: Michel Gondry Starring: Seth Rogen, Jay Chou, Cameron Diaz

Synopsis: Based on the classic radio program, “The Green Hornet” tells the story of Britt Reid (Seth Rogen), a spoiled playboy who has happily maintained a carefree and directionless life, but just so happens to be heir to Los Angeles’ largest newspaper fortune. After his father mysteriously dies, Britt meets and befriends company employee Kato (Jay Chou), who proves to be a highly resourceful martial arts expert. Together, the two men realize they have the means to do something meaningful for the first time in their lives — fight crime.

To gain insight to the local criminal scene, the duo pose as criminals themselves. Protecting the law by breaking it, Britt becomes the vigilante the Green Hornet, as he and Kato take to the streets. Using all of his ingenuity, Kato builds the ultimate superhero vehicle, an indestructible car complete with every weapon imaginable known only as Black Beauty.

With the help of Britt’s new secretary, Lenore Case (Cameron Diaz), the crime-fighters begin hunting down the man who controls LA’s gritty underworld – Benjamin Chudnofsky (Christoph Waltz).

However, if Chudnofsky and the gangs united under his power have any say, the Green Hornet will be swatted down once and for all.

“Yogi Bear”

“TRON: Legacy”

Synopsis: “Yogi Bear” is a live-action 3D film of the hit Hanna-Barbera cartoon series “The Yogi Bear Show.” Jellystone Park, the place where Yogi (Dan Aykroyd) and Boo Boo (Justin Timberlake) live, is on the verge of being shut down and sold by Mayor Brown (Andrew Daly), since it is no longer making him money. If nothing is done, families will no longer have a beautiful park to enjoy and Yogi and Boo Boo will lose their home. Yogi decides he has to prove to everyone “he is smarter than the average bear” and sets out to save Jellystone Park with Boo Boo and the help of Ranger Smith (TJ Miller).

Synopsis: “TRON: Legacy” is Disney’s sequel to its 1982 original, “TRON.” Twenty-seven-year-old Sam Flynn is troubled by the disappearance of his father, Kevin Flynn, who was once known as the world’s leading video game developer. When Sam receives a strange signal from his father’s abandoned arcade, he finds himself pulled into a digital world where his father has been trapped for the last 20 years. With the help of the fearless Quorra, Kevin and Sam must trek through the digital world in search of an exit, only to realize that the world Kevin created has become extremely dangerous, advanced beyond expectation and houses a brutal villain who will stop at nothing to prevent their escape. Electronic music duo Daft Punk will provide the film’s soundtrack and the film with be shown in Disney Digital 3D and IMAX 3D.

Genre: Comedy Release Date: Dec. 17 Rating: PG Director: Eric Brevig Starring: Dan Aykroyd, Justin Timberlake, Anna Faris

Genre: Science Fiction, Action Release Date: Dec. 17 Rating: PG Director: Joseph Kosinski Starring: Jeff Bridges, Olivia Wilde, Garrett Hedlund

“Gulliver’s Travels”

Genre: Adventure, Comedy Release Date: Dec. 22 Rating: PG Director: Rob Letterman Starring: Jack Black, Jason Segel, Emily Blunt

“The Eagle”

Genre: Action, Drama Release Date: Feb. 11 Rating: PG-13 Director: Kevin MacDonald Starring: Channing Tatum, Jaime Bell, Donald Sutherland Synopsis: Set in Second Century Britain, “The Eagle” follows young Roman centurion Marcus Aquila (Channing Tatum) as he sets out to solve the mystery of the missing Ninth Legion. The film is based in the year 135 A.D., 15 years since the Ninth Legion disappeared into the mountains of Scotland. Since his father was the commander of the legion, Marcus is determined to find out just what happened to them. This journey not only helps Marcus find peace with the memory of his father, but also restores the failing reputation his father brought upon his name. Crossing Hadrian’s Wall and taking a voyage through the treacherous High Lands of Caledonia won’t be easy, especially when his only partner is his British slave Esca (Jaime Bell). Along their journey, they confront the savage tribes of the land and attempt to gain back the lost legion’s golden emblem – the treasured Eagle of the North.

“The Mechanic”

Genre: Action Release Date: Jan. 28 Rating: R Director: Simon West Starring: Jason Statham, Donald Sutherland, Ben Foster

Synopsis: Lemuel Gulliver (Jack Black) is a big– talking mailroom clerk at a New York newspaper aspiring to become a travel writer. When he’s mistakenly assigned a travel piece on the Bermuda Triangle, he makes an effort to actually venture out of the city to write the article and hopefully get promoted out of the mailroom for it. A storm-tossed voyage lands him on the hidden island of Lilliput, home to a population of very tiny people called Lilliputians.

After a rocky beginning, the gargantuan Gulliver is declared a hero and becomes an inspiration to his new 6-inch friends. Through his experiences on the island, Gulliver comes to learn that it’s how big you are on the inside that counts.

ILLUSTRATION BY FAYTHE DEL ROSARIO / THE ADVOCATE

“Justin Bieber: Never Say Never” Genre: Documentary Release Date: Feb.11 Rating: NR Director: Jon Chu Starring: Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, Jaden Smith

Synopsis: This 3D documentary focuses on teen pop sensation Justin Bieber on his 2010 concert tour. The film shows fans exclusive footage from Synopsis: “The Mechanic” is a modern remake different performances nationwide, as well as give of the 1972 Charles Bronson film of the same name. them a closer look into Bieber’s life, beginning from Jason Statham plays Arthur Bishop, a mechanic the very start as a young child. Growing up, Bieber and elite assassin with a strict code and a talent was told he was never going to make it as a singer. for cleanly removing his targets. When his mentor Director Jon Chu displays this inspirational true and close friend Harry is murdered, Arthur makes story of an ordinary guy who followed his dreams it his mission to find out who is responsible and and made them a reality. kill them. Ben Foster plays Harry’s son Steve, who shares the same thirst for vengeance as Arthur and approaches him to teach him how to become a professional killer.

Genre: Drama, Western Release Date: Dec. 22 Rating: PG-13 Director: Joel & Ethan Coen Genre: Family Starring: Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin Release Date: Feb. 11 Rating: NR Synopsis: Following the murder of her father by Director: Kelly Asbury hired hand Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin), 14-year-old Starring: James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Maggie farm girl Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld) sets out Smith to find the toughest man she can to track down her father’s killer. Determined to bring Chaney to jusSynopsis: At a stand still while their owners are tice, she enlists the help of a trigger-happy, drunken home, the garden gnomes come to life when they U.S. Marshal named Reuben J. “Rooster” Cogburn leave. For as long as they can remember, the blue (Jeff Bridges). Against his wishes, she accompanies and red gnomes have been rival neighbors. Amidst him to pursue the criminal through hostile Indian the clashing of the two sides, Gnomeo, the brave territory. Another man on Chaney’s trail, a Texas and competitive gnome from the blue side, falls in Ranger named LeBoeuf (Matt Damon), joins the love with Juliet, the daughter of the leader of the two with intentions of arresting the culprit for the red side. She falls in love with Gnomeo, and the murder of a man in Texas. The trials the unlikely trio two secretly see each other with the help of certain face test each man and girl’s grit in Joel and Ethan friends, but will their love be strong enough to surCoen’s adaptation of Charles Portis’ original novel. vive their families’ rivalry?

“True Grit”

“Gnomeo and Juliet”

“Season of the Witch”

Genre: Supernatural, Action, Adventure Release Date: Jan. 7 Rating: PG-13 Director: Dominic Sena Starring: Nicolas Cage, Ron Perlman

Synopsis: Nicolas Cage stars as a heroic Crusader, along with his closest friend, played by Ron Perlman, who return home after decades of fighting. Upon returning home, they find out that their land was destroyed by the Black Plague. The church elders believe that a peasant girl is a witch and the cause of the damage. The two knights are ordered to take the girl to a remote monastery, where monks will perform a ritual to abolish the curse. The knights are joined by a priest, a grieving knight and a young man who dreams of becoming a knight. During the journey, the group must battle against the hostile wilderness filled with mystical creatures and a powerful evil force.

“The Dilemma”

Genre: Comedy, Drama Release Date: Jan. 14 Rating: PG-13 Director: Ron Howard Starring: Vince Vaughn, Kevin James, Winona Ryder, Jennifer Connelly Synopsis: “The Dilemma” is a story of how far you can bend a brotherly bond before it snaps.

Since college, confirmed bachelor Ronny (Vince Vaughn) and happily married Nick (Kevin James) have been through thick and thin. Now partners in an auto design firm, the two pals are vying to land a dream project that would launch their company.

With Ronny’s girlfriend, Beth (Jennifer Connelly), and Nick’s wife, Geneva (Winona Ryder), by their sides, they’re unbeatable. Ronny’s world is turned upside down when he inadvertently sees Geneva out with another man and makes it his mission to get answers. As the investigation dissolves, his world goes into comic mayhem and he finds out that Nick has a few secrets of his own. With the clock ticking and pressure mounting on the biggest presentation of their careers, Ronny must decide how and when he will reveal the truth to his best friend.

B8 THE ADVOCATE

l WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8, 2010

SCENE

‘Hallows’ follows book, trio’s feats

raging in the magical world, as director David Yates dives right into the plot without stopping to baby the audience by reiterating anything from past movies.

By Cassidy Gooding Therefore, one should definitely OPINION EDITOR take the opportunity to catch up with a Harry Potter movie maraIn the penultimate release of thon before making the trek and the staggering Harry Potter saga, shelling out the cash for a ticket.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly For the avid movie fans who Hallows: Part 1,” longtime fans are strictly cinema-goers and of the series are taken on an have not read the books, “Deathly intense journey through parts of the magical world never glimpsed Hallows: Part 1” picks up right where “The Half-Blood before. Harry, Ron and moviereview Prince” left off. The Hermione, after facing first scene opens with a Lord Voldemort’s Death message from the new Eaters in a series of close Minister of Magic, Rufus calls, take off into the Scrimgeour, setting percountryside and forsake “Harry Potter fectly the dark mood that the comforts of Hogwarts. and the Deathly has crept over the wizardReleased Nov. 19, the seventh installation of the Hallows: Part 1” ing world since Professor ★★★★★ Dumbledore’s death and saga has already brought Starring: Daniel Voldemort’s subsequent in more than $300 milRadcliffe, Rupert rise to power. lion worldwide, cementing Grint, Emma Similar to the last two Harry Potter as one of the Watson Directed by: movies — “HBP” and most lucrative franchises David Yates “The Order of the Phoenix” in history.

Genre: Fantasy — the coloring of the Newcomers deciding to scenes is muted and the jump on the bandwagon at overall feel is generally this last minute by flockominous. ing to theaters without any prior As for diehard fans of both knowledge have been somewhat the books and movies, “Part 1” lost in the fray of the new battle plays like a dream. A well crafted, almost totally true-to-the-book dream that makes two and a half hours fly by like a thestral.

From the very beginning, however, those who know the story in and out will either squirm uncomfortably or chuckle derisively as Harry is introduced to characters he should have known for years, such as Mundungus Fletcher, Bill Weasley and Xenophilius Lovegood. Other than these and scattered minor discrepancies, the story unfolds exactly as author J. K. Rowling painted it on paper.

After the first half hour, when Harry, Ron and Hermione escape from danger and begin their search for the items called horcruxes by camping out in

random locations throughout Europe, the movie becomes an intimate setting for just the audience and the trio.

Extra characters are scant and unimportant, lending watchers much more isolated character development that’s only ever been glanced at in the films before.

The constant fear, ebbing hope and mounting overwhelmed mania between the friends are palpable and contagious as each step forward seems just to unravel more puzzles to solve.

For example, hearts go out to Harry’s stirring experience at his parent’s grave site in Godric’s Hollow, and the following scene with Bathilda Bagshot is so hauntingly chilling the only thing that would have made it better would have been 3-D effects.

With the explosion of 3-D movies recently, coupled with the fact that the last 20 minutes of “OOTP” and first 20 of “HBP” could be viewed in the special effect, it’s very surprising Warner Brothers didn’t spring for more of the same with this release.

One can only imagine how much more involved the audience would have been had it felt more like viewers were standing in the forests or the Malfoy Mansion or the Ministry of Magic.

As it is, however, “The Deathly Hallows: Part 1” has captivated a plethora of viewers. After nine years of watching, it has become increasingly easy to root for Harry, Ron and Hermione, and as fans await the end of an era, the trio has become so familiar and endearing that many feel as though they’re watching their own friends on screen.

“Part 1” ends at a sublime cliffhanger that has left millions of people with no choice but to hold their breath until July, when “Part 2” is released.

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

Next film to finish, thrill

By Janit Saechao STAFF WRITER

in this first part of “The Deathly Hallows,” he only succeeds in eliminating one, making the current score three out of seven horcruxes down.

The last and final movie of the Harry Potter series would logically consist of Harry completing his unfinished business with the help of Ron and Hermione.

They will search for and destroy what’s left of the remaining horcruxes and Harry will ultimately fight the battle he’s been waiting for his entire life against Voldemort.

After years of many casualties, mysteries and dangers, Harry will be able to overcome his fears and have the chance to defeat him. If successful, Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, along with the whole wizarding world, shall finally know peace.

Harry will be able to let go of his past and move onto a better future. After all, it was much deserved and every story should have a happy ending.

After its first movie release in 2001, the Harry Potter series is finally coming to a close. With the release of “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 1,” part two is soon to follow with its release date set for July 15, 2011.

While many say the part one of “The Deathly Hallows” is action packed, the second is expected to be even more exciting with the inclusion of the most epic battle in the saga’s history.

In the recent release, Harry, Hermione and Ron journey to destroy the objects called horcruxes in which Lord Voldemort has placed pieces of his soul.

In the process, they learn about the three fabled tems, known as the deathly hallows, which promise their owner immortality.

Contact Janit Saechao at jsaechao.

Harry, since the sixth installation of the series, has made it his goal to destroy all of the horcruxes, and advocate@gmail.com.

PAGE DESIGN BY DARIUSH AZMOUDEH / THE ADVOCATE

The seven horcruxes Slytherin’s Locket

The charmed locket once owned

by Slytherin had to be stolen from Dolores Umbridge and worn by the trio for weeks before Ron finally defeated it with the sword of Gryffindor.

Hufflepuff’s Goblet

Glimpsed in book 6, Voldemort murdered a collector of treasures for the valuable goblet and created a horcrux out of it as a show of his devotion to power and the founders of Hogwarts.

Ravenclaw’s Diadem

Before his death, Dumbledore confided to Harry that Voldemort must have found and hidden something of Ravenclaw’s inside of Hogwarts.

Slytherin’s Ring

Dumbledore was seen wearing this ring before he was killed, and told Harry he had destroyed the soul inside. The ring’s whereabouts are now unknown.

Tom Riddle’s Diary In “The Chamber of Secrets,” the enchanted diary possessed Ginny Weasley before Harry impaled and mangled it with a basilisk fang.

?

The Seventh Horcrux

At the close of “Half-Blood Prince,” Harry is under the impression the final horcrux is something of Gryffindor’s. However, he has yet to find proof.

Nagini the Snake

Dumbledore presented the possibility that Nagini, Voldemort’s eerily intelligent and obedient pet snake, could be a host for one of the pieces of the Dark Lord’s soul.