WEDNESDAY l 2.13.19 OUR 69TH YEAR
CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE SAN PABLO, CALIF.
LEFT: Members (left to right) Nino-Angelo Lastimoso, Matthew Chamberlain, Natasha Singer, Joseph Saeteurn, Laura Karst and Jesse Chao make up Contra Costa College’s JAZZ-ology.
In perfect harmony DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE
JAZZ-ology one of six groups recognized nationally to perform at convention By Jose Arebalo scene editor
jarebalo.theadvocate@gmail.com
Beautiful horizons continue to shine ever more clear for the award-winning musical group from Contra Costa College following their performance for a national audience of fellow musicians. JAZZ-ology was one of six groups selected to perform at the National Convention of Jazz Educators on the weekend of Jan. 10-12. The group was previously passed over after requesting to perform at the event and was ecstatic to be chosen this year for the convention in Reno, Nevada.
The convention is iconic within the music education community. “Everyone feels like a family when they walk in here,” alto/tenor one Joseph Saeteurn said. Part of their success comes from being an ensemble of six. Other educational musical groups are usually made up of more than 10 people. In JAZZ-ology, “There’s a sense of intimacy which lets us bear our souls,” Saeteurn Austin said. Having a smaller group has allowed the ensemble to perform more diverse musical
WARD I: John Marquez is the secretary of the CCCCD Governing Board. As a student at Contra Costa College, Marquez co-founded La Raza studies department with former CCC professor Al Zuniga in 1970. He has also served numerous terms on the Richmond City Council starting in 1985.
pieces. Performances at the national convention usually follow a certain kind of mold. Jazz-ology got to share a unique product from a Bay Area institution. The musical selections available to the team are intrinsically more diverse. Pieces that JAZZology perform come from the eclectic Bay Area jazz influences all around them. With a tighter unit and fresher music, the ensemble deserved to be shared on a national stage. JAZZ-ology traveled out with five faculty members and six students and took the stage with two accompanists at the performance. JAZZ-OLOGY, PAGE 3
WARD III: Becca Barrett was elected to the CCCCD Governing Board in November 2018. Barrett is a Concord School District graduate and a Diablo Valley College alumnus. She graduated from UCLA with WARD II: bachelor of arts degree in political science. Vicki Gordon is the president of the CCCCD WARD IV: Andy Li was Governing WARD V: Greg Enholm elected to his seat in Board. Gordon is was elected to the November 2018. Li is the a Diablo CCCCD Governing first Chinese-American Valley Board in to serve on the CCCCD College November Governing Board. He alum2015. owns a health care nus. information technology firm.
Ward III
Perseverance through adversity fuels competitor PAGE 8
Ward I
Ward V
Ward II
Contra STUDENT TRUSTEE: Jocelyn Villalobos, Costa County a first-generation college student, is the CCCCD’s student representative on the Governing Board. Villalobos is a nursing major at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg and has served in the Associated Students Union at LMC.
Ward IV
Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE SOURCE: 4CD.EDU
DISTRICT BOARD SEES RENEWAL
Appetizer showdown takes place in Aqua Terra PAGE 6 FACEBOOK: /accentadvocate
November election fills vacant positions, gives voice to students By Michael Santone
n “Both of them are well-informed. They read their materials, which is very important for board members. They ask good questions and have excellent suggestions.”
— John Marquez, secretary
editor-in-chief
msantone.theadvocate@gmail.com
The Contra Costa Community College Governing Board is once again operating at full capacity after two new trustees won the 2018 California primary election this past November. Front runners Rebecca Barrett, elected to serve Ward III and Vice President Andy Li, elected to serve Ward IV were both sworn in INSTAGRAM: @cccadvocate
for three-year terms at the Dec. 12 Governing Board meeting. “I’ll be quite honest with you. I’m very impressed with both Barrett and Li,” board Secretary John Marquez said. “Both of them are well-informed. They read their materials, which is very important for board members. They ask TWITTER: @accentadvocate
good questions and have excellent suggestions.” Marquez said prior to running for trustee, Barrett and Li were attending meetings, so they were already well-informed and had an understanding of the processes and policies. “By the time they filed, they both had opponents, but Barrett and Li were better prepared, in my opinion,” he said. “Once they got elected and sworn in, it was clear to me that the voters made the right choices.” Back in March, the Governing Board was unexpectedly left with a vacant seat after the resignation of then president Tim Farley. Aside from Student Trustee Jocelyn Villalobos, the board was left with only four members to serve five wards of Contra Costa SEE BOARD MEMBERS, PAGE 3
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SNAPCHAT: @cccadv0cate
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Associated Collegiate Press California Newspaper Publishers Association Journalism Association of Community Colleges How to reach us Phone: 510.215.3852 Fax: 510.235.NEWS Email: accent.advocate@ gmail.com Editorial policy Columns and editorial cartoons are the opinion of individual writers and artists and not that of The Advocate. Editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board, which is made up of student editors.
opinion
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 13, 2019 VOL. 108, NO. 12
WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM
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EDITORIAL
MISSING THE MESSAGE
Students deserve information system that actually informs
T
he mission statement for any upstanding institute of higher learning should be to provide the greatest opportunity for student success, and at Contra Costa College every endeavor seems to be cultivated to suit that purpose. However, far too often, hard work and administrative planning falls short of its intended outcome and the services slated to assist students in need of support are underused or completely overlooked. The disconnect between students and the services crafted to offer them support has been cavernous and the problem shows no sign of improving any time soon. This past Wednesday, over 30 Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) met with CCC students in Campus Center Plaza to offer on-the-spot college acceptance, pathways to have admittance fees waived and to offer scholarships to students interested in the HBCU experience. Despite the opportunities that were made available, many students had no idea the event was even happening. This isn’t an isolated incident or a reflection on the counselors who organized the event; there is a constant logjam of information that fails to make its way to students. This campus offers a wealth of services to combat societal ills and educational constraints but what good do they do if nobody knows they exist? Something has to change. Few students know there is a free breakfast program on campus or that the $20 calculator in the Bookstore ($12 at Target) can be borrowed for the semester, free of charge through the book and calculator loan program. Many of the programs that offer free tools to navigate college, live and eventually die on the campus website contracosta.edu. What would have been the turnout for the HBCU event if a text blast was sent to students outlining the numerous opportunities that were made available? Clearly, word of mouth and flyers posted around campus are not enough. Last Monday, a campuswide text was sent to students warning of hazardous waste removal from the boiler room in the PAC. Most students don’t even know where that is. Technology to effectively get out information exists — it’s just not being used properly. No text was sent urging students to be alert when parking their cars following a car theft near the Bus Transfer Center Jan. 30. Many administrators work tirelessly to fill the service void some students, who come from marginalized communities, face — only to have those events sparsely attended. It’s a breeding ground for administrative apathy and gives the impression that students aren’t interested in on-campus activities. But students are more than willing to attend events. In fact when word does get out, workshops, forums and the monthly holiday celebrations are robust. This was evident at last semester’s “Southern Origins: Classical African Civilizations” presentation, where students lined the stairways of GE-225 filling the room to beyond capacity. Using the text system to offer reminders to students on campus of important events, like the approaching March 20 Job Fair, is not difficult. To the contrary, it’s the easiest way to ensure students receive information and a text is infinitely more reliable than communicating InSite email.
CINDY PANTOJA / THE ADVOCATE
■ FOREIGN POLICY
Boycotting Israel constitutional, a right
I
n 2018, 29 Republican and 14 Democratic U.S. senators wanted to make it illegal for businesses and business owners to boycott Israel through an unconstitutional bill, Senate Bill 720, that violates the First Amendment. Because the unrest between Palestine and Israel is known worldwide, blatant human rights atrocities have raised concerns among many watchdog organizations. The bill was introduced in 2017 and failed, but interest in it resurfaced in recent days following tweets by freshman (congresswoman) Rep. Ilhan Omar that referenced Israeli lobbyists and their financial influence. Because of recent attacks against Palestinians, there is a need for people on the outside of the conflict to show solidarity with Palestine. However, this doesn’t equate to anti-semitism. Surprisingly, S. 720 shows that U.S. senators have aligned themselves with Israel even if they are violating human rights. They also aim to suppress anyone who says otherwise. Fortunately, this bill cannot target non-profit institutions or organizations. Instead, the focus is on citizens with businesses that wish to join anti-Israel political movements. The punishment for violating S. 720 Israel AntiBoycott Act would be a minimum civil penalty of $250,000 and a maximum
Fining businesses a large sum of money doesn’t enhance the right of a citizen to petition for change or support their right to grow a boycott movement through exercising freedom of speech. Even more, the political ideals of Israel are founded fine of $1 million. on religious beliefs. The Violators would also occupation of Palestine by receive 20 years in prison, Israel is (from Israel’s peraccording to American spective) is a prophesied Civil Liberties Union. The penalties may deter and God-given event in the Torah and in the Bible. an investor from reportIt’s obvious that the ing any impropriety that majority of American polmay occur iticians have a bias toward when The evangelical religions founddoing busied on the Bible. ness with punishGenesis, chapter 12 Israel. in the Old Testament, The ment for describes Abram as being First picked as the servant who violating Amendwould build up Israel. ment God tells Abram that he S. 720 should will make him into a great a would be protect nation (Israel) and those business who bless him will be a minimum owner that would blessed. And those who dishonor want to civil him will be cursed. terminate This biblical passage is penalty of dealings why many Republican, and with Israel some Democratic, poli$250,000. because ticians agree with S. 720 of human and are more than happy rights violations. to take away the rights of The First Amendment their constituents. protects freedoms of For the U.S. government speech, the press, assembly to suppress any politiof persons and the right to cal movement because petition for policy change. of religious advocacy is It also says government a contradiction of the cannot act to benefit any Establishment Clause in single religion, but must the First Amendment. allow private citizens to practice their religion of choice freely. Denis Perez is the creative For some people, under director for The Advocate. S. 720, the right to petition Contact him at dperez.theadthe government would vocate@gmail.com become non-existent.
denisperez
CAMPUS COMMENT
Do you think a physical education class should be a requirement to graduate from Contra Costa College?
“In a way, yes, because it can motivate people to stay healthy.” Raymond Kreger undecided
“No, because we already have all these other required classes and it would just add more stress to people.”
“Considering the obesity rate in America, I feel it could be good for people’s health.” Jennifer Lilana
Roshawntaa Cunningham early childhood development
social justice
“I have mixed feelings about it, but I feel it should be someone’s choice to take P.E. classes instead of it being a requirement.”
“No, because most people don’t want to take a P.E. class or are not majoring in anything related to P.E.”
Brianna Dixon
sociology
nursing JESSICA SUICO, JANET LIRA GONZALEZ / THE ADVOCATE
Esperanza Reyes
“Working out and physical activity can be a stress reliever for some, but it should be a choice not a requirement” Linda Huerta sociology
campus beat
WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 2.13.19 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE
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NEWSLINE JAZZ-OLOGY | Group continues prestigious run FUNDRAISER
JEWLERY AND ACCESSORIES SALE Contra Costa College Friends of the Library invite you to shop their Valentine Boutique today from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. in the Library and Learning Resource Center. Browse an assortment of preowned jewelry and accessories, in which all proceeds with benefit the collections of CCC Library. For more information contact Darris Crear at 510-215-4891 or by email at dcrear@contracosta.edu
CULTURE
AFRICAN HERITAGE MONTH SHOWCASED In honor of African Heritage Month, the annual community celebration of enlightenment and entertainment will take place today in the Knox Center at 6 p.m. Come out and enjoy an evening filled with education, music and poetry as faculty, staff and students perform and present. For more information contact Joel Nickelson-Shanks by email at jshanks@contracosta.edu or professor Carolyn Hodge at 510-2154934.
THEATER
OPENING WEEKEND FOR COMEDIC PLAY “Humble Boy,” a play about beekeeping and astrophysics, opens at Contra Costa Civic Theater in El Cerrito Friday. The play follows 35-year-old Cambridge astrophysicist Felix Humble, who finds himself forced to return back home to the English countryside after his father, a teacher and amateur beekeeper’s sudden death. Filled with heartbreak and wit, “Humble Boy” deals with the larger questions of the universe and smaller questions of family dynamics. The play is running each Friday, Saturday and Sunday through March 10.
ART
EXHIBIT FEATURES BLACK LIVING
The 23rd Annual Art of Living Black presents an exhibition of over 100 works at the Richmond Art Center at 2540 Barrett Avenue. Co-founded by the late Jan HartSchuyers and the late Rae Louise Hayward, the Art of Living Black exhibit is the longest running event of its kind in the Bay Area to feature artists of African descent. The exhibition will conclude March 8, and is open TuesdaySaturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information contact the Richmond Art Center at 510620-6772.
CRIMEWATCH Thursday, Feb. 7 An alarm was reported going off at 5:07 p.m. in the Library and Learning Resource Center.
— The Contra Costa Community College District is committed to equal opportunity in educational programs, employment, and campus life. The District does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, marital status, national origin, parental status, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status in any access to and treatment in College programs, activities, and application for employment.
Continued from Page 1 The JEN conference is the first foray into the professional music scene for many students. It’s an event that has caught the attention of serious names within the industry and JAZZ-ology didn’t buckle under the pressure. Instead, they gave a strong 50-minute performance showing their peers all their hard work and gained experience. The group’s success has earned the praise of the entire music department. JAZZ-ology has become one of their proudest accomplishments. Even while earning such high accolades, their achievements seem to lack some much due praise from the campus community. The performance at the national convention was a solid showing, proving to other institutions that they are just as well-equipped as big name universities. The program is now considered a great model of musical education and is revered by other students and schools. Besides having to practice and hone their craft to such high standards, their travels do not come for free. The team is in charge of its own fundraising as well. “We work hard throughout the year fundraising towards our goals,” lead soprano Natasha Singer said. It is a task that the music faculty is entirely aware is intensely difficult. The staff aids their students in actually raising large funds and this last year they did more than a great job. “Fundraising definitely gives us more creative control,” Singer said. The experience has provided a learning opportunity for the members. Their experience in the group is the same that would be garnered by other professional musical groups as well. They also get to perform some commissioned instrumental jazz arrangements. Pieces like those are what enabled the performers stand out from the more traditional Choral ensembles. Being selected as one of six groups for the national conference shows just how much talent Contra Costa College has in house. The music department has taken part in creating something quite special. Even within the national pool, Jazz-ology stands out as a special exception. “The campus could notice us more,” baritone Jesse Chao said when asked whether the community is aware enough of their achievements. Jazz-ology is a nationally accomplished vocal group coming out of a community college outshining some groups from four-year universities. For such a high achieving, even remarkable track record the campus at large is yet to recognize them as such. When the group performed at All College Day, it was the first chance many faculty and staff had to listen to their melodies. For some people it was their first time hearing of us, Singer said. Adventures still await the team as they continue sharing their musical pieces. Their next destination lands them in a tour across the Atlantic Ocean into Europe. JAZZ-ology will be sharing their talents across continents this year. The Ensemble will be performing in France from June 1-13. JAZZ-ology will be performing in Paris, Grenoble, Chambéry and La Chapelle
“
The Voices of JAZZ-ology Joseph Saeteurn Vocal Position: Alto, Tenor One
“It brings a sense of joy and comfort to be able to do what I love.”
Nino-Angelo Lastimosa Vocal Position: Tenor Two, Baritone “A lot of polishing and musicianship goes into our preparation.”
Natasha Singer
Vocal Position: Lead Soprano
“We’re looking forward to touring in France this semester.”
Matthew Chamberlain
Vocal Position: Baritone
Laura Karst Vocal Position: Second Soprano, Alto “It really feels like winning a Grammy.”
Jesse Chao Vocal Position: Bass “Being a part of JEN is a big deal. Hopefully this will open more doors for us.” ILLUSTRATION BY DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE
du Mont du Chat. The team is excited to explore France and to perform for a whole new crowd. “(We will be) spending 13 days in June doing seven gigs,” Chao said. Under the guidance of music department Chairperson Stephanie Austin, the ensemble will bring some of the most exceptional vocal jazz. Looking forward to their trip, JAZZ-ology is getting ample time to prep before their big overseas mini-tour. The spring semester has a few performances
scheduled state side as well. By the time their trip in France comes around, JAZZ-ology will be in peak condition. On March 2, JAZZ-ology will be performing at the Columbia Vocal Jazz Festival in Sonora. Their next performance will take place on May 17 at the group’s CD release and Jazz Vocal Gala in the John and Jean Knox Center for the Performing Arts. Their last scheduled performance for this semester will be during Jazz Voice at La Strada Italian Restaurant in San Pablo.
BOARD MEMBERS | New trustees eager to lend voice LEFT: Rebecca Barrett gets sworn in as Governing Board Trustee of Ward III during the Dec. 12 Governing Board meeting.
Continued from Page 1 County. “There would be times when more than one board member might be absent and it put a lot of pressure on the remaining board members and staff,” Marquez said. “It feels great to have a full board again because. Speaking for myself, I can relax, I don’t feel pressured. I feel like I can take my time and be more prepared to better serve the district.” Andy Li was born and raised in China and is one of the first board members of Asian-American descent. “I have always had a passion to help students, but after having my two kids, I realized I really need to do something to help students and use that passion,” Li said. “Right now, it’s more about learning for me — this is not an easy job.” Li said it feels very different being vice president than being a guest because now he has a voice and an opinion on agenda items. “Community college is a great pathway for students. I’m ready to get involved in the discussions and make suggestions,” he said. “I’m trying to understand all the information, but I do realize that the funding formula is a top priority for all of us. I hope I can help with that.” Rebecca Barrett is a native of Concord and a proud product of local public schools and the CCCCD. Barrett attended Diablo Valley College before transferring to UCLA where she earned a bach-
SPECIAL TO / THE ADVOCATE
n “Trustee Barrett is not afraid, she’s very student oriented and ready to tackle any challenge — she kicks butt.”
— Jocelyn Villalobos, student trustee
elor of arts degree in political science. Student Trustee Villalobos said Barrett is very approachable and is planning to attend Associated Students Union meetings at Los Medanos (Pittsburg), Diablo Valley (Pleasant Hill) and Contra Costa colleges, the three colleges in the district.
“She wants the students to get familiar with her face and be able to ask her questions,” Villalobos said. “Trustee Barrett is not afraid, she’s very student oriented and ready to tackle any challenge — she kicks butt.” Along with being involved in some of the largest education policy changes in California history as part of the leadership team in the state’s Department of Education, Barrett also led the team that implemented the “Gold Ribbon Schools” awards system that rewards schools for high test scores. Marquez said Barrett has worked for the state Legislature and for people in Congress, so she’s familiar with the politics that
surround the Governing Board trustee position. “Barrett is very sharp. She has worked along the California educational system for some time and knows her way around it,” Marquez said. “She brings with her an immense background of knowledge. I’m really looking forward to working with her and Vice President Li.” Aside from being a Governing Board trustee, Barrett is also a mentor to Diablo Valley College students. She works to cultivate leadership among the youth. Currently Barrett works as a consultant, advising individuals and organizations on how to get better involved in the community.
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campusbeat
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(LEFT) Colleen Smallfield (left) helps nursing major Maria Caroache (right) at the tax preparation workshop at the Transfer/ Career Center Friday.
Tax season made easy through Sparkpoint WEST / THE ADVOCATE
By Jessica Suico news editor
jsuico.theadvocate@gmail.com
The Career/Transfer Center hosted a free tax assistance workshop to help students and faculty file their taxes and get any information they need about taxes and how to file prior to the April 15 deadline. The Friday workshop was put on by Sparkpoint, United Way Bay Area and the Earn It! Keep It! Save It! (EKS) organization. They helped six students navigate the filing process. To register for an appointment people in need of assistance are directed to www. tinyurl.com/FreeTaxHelp-ccc to begin the process. There are still four more sessions of tax preparation service that will be held on campus. More help sessions are scheduled for Feb. 22, March 8 and 22, and April 5, each
n “You don’t need to be a stu-
dent to get assistance. This is open to people in the community.” —Bill Bankhead, Sparkpoint coordinator
from 1- 3 p.m. in the Career/Transfer Center. Earn It! Keep It! Save It! coordinator Colleen Smallfield said, “This is a pilot for this workshop. Myself, Sparkpoint, United Ways and Contra Costa College talked about having a workshop on campus for students to be able to file their taxes for free and get any help they need.” Earn It! Keep It! Save It! has over 200 sites in the Bay Area where people can receive help completing their tax forms. There are about 3,000 IRS certified tax volunteers that go to these cites, Smallfield said. If those who need help filing their taxes
made $64,000 or less last year, these workshops are perfect help for them, according to a press release given to Sparkpoint coordinator Bill Bankhead. It states that in 2018 3,000 EKS volunteers helped file more than 78,000 federal and state tax returns bringing more than $81 million in federal tax refunds to local Bay Area communities. Since 2003, volunteers have facilitated more than half a billion dollars in refunds to Bay Area households. Bankhead said, “(former dean of students) Vicki Ferguson and (Dean of Students) Dennis Franco were the people to first pitch this idea to me last year. Franco worked really hard with me, to get this workshop finalized to have on campus.” Bankhead said he would like students and faculty to get the tax refunds they deserve. He also hopes to highlight Sparkpoint on campus, as well as to the community.
“You don’t need to be a student to get this assistance. This is also open to people in the community,” Bankhead said. UWBA fights for stability and equal opportunity for residents in eight Bay Area counties. It takes an innovative, holistic approach to ending the cycle of poverty through advocacy and programs that support all ages. They do this by providing free access to family support, financial and career coaching, job opportunities and basic needs. Health and human services major Adriana Desousa said, “This workshop is very good for students because we don’t have a lot of financial resources to be able to afford to pay a professional to file our taxes.” Smallfield said, “It feels good to help people in a stressful situation because, tax season and filing taxes can be stressful. I like to be able to bring solutions to people’s problems.”
ENROLLMENT REMAINS FLAT DESPITE EARLY GROWTH By Xavier Johnson web editor
xjohnson.theadvocate@gmail.com
As of the beginning of spring 2019, semester enrollment has experienced a 6.3 percent increase in Full Time Equivalent Student (FTES). However, as of Monday, the increase has flattened to a 1.8 percent increase according to the spring 2019 Admissions and Records enrollment report. Through the first 14 days of the semester, the 1.8 percent increase highlights a drop in enrollment over the same period of time
compared to last year. The Full Time Equivalent Student (FTES) is based on the total number of units students enroll in divided by 15 units. One student enrolling in 15 units represents one FTES. “There are drops in enrollment from the first day of school. We are now about 100 students over what we were at the same time last year,” Frost Admissions and Records
Director Catherine Frost said. The total headcount for the start of the spring 2019 semester is 6,923 compared to 6,445 at the start of spring 2018. According to the enrollment report, the head count number is a 7.4 percent increase or 478 students. As of Monday, the headcount has experienced a similar flattening, similar to the FTES count. The difference from spring 2018 and spring 2019 was reduced to only 109 — which is a difference of 1.5 percent. FTES is one of the primary factors that determines college funding. Currently, 70
percent of the budget is funded through FTES. The other 30 percent is funded through enrollment of low-income students and the Student Success Initiative which is based on associate degree completion, 18+ unit certificates, transfer level math and English completion within one year and regional living wage attainment. Contra Costa College’s flat enrollment reflects a districtwide trend. According to the enrollment report through 14 days, the spring 2019 12,977 FTES is a flat -.3 percent difference from 13,013 from spring 2018.
fundraiser offers valentine dinner Five course meal, glass of wine fills evening of romance By Kyle Grant advocate staff
kgrant.theadvocate@gmail.com
ILLUSTRATION BY CINDY PANTOJA/ THE ADVOCATE
Couples still on the lookout for a reasonable dinner for Valentine’s Day, complete with soft music and romance-inspired ambiance, look no further. Contra Costa College’s culinary arts department will be holding its annual Valentine’s Day dinner Thursday, featuring delicious courses all prepared by culinary department students.
The Cupid’s Season Dinner will be held in Aqua Terra Grill from 5-8 p.m. The meal includes five courses and comes with a complimentary glass of wine. For those who enjoy more than one glass and wish to bring their own bottles, there’s also no corkage charge. According to culinary arts department Chairperson Nader Sharkes, there have already been around 60 reservations made. Sharkes said that proceeds from the event will be used toward paying for necessities within the culinary departments. It also assists with the department’s scholarship fund and its study abroad trip to Italy. Tickets are $35 per person and each meal will include a serving of each of the courses, starting with a big-eye tuna avocado roll and a lobster miso shot.
Rounding out the roster of foods will be the main entree, a prime fillet mignon and roasted bocconi in Romesco sauce. For dessert, patrons will be treated to a delectable triple chocolate cake with a tasty raspberry sauce, along with their choice of hot or cold tea, or coffee. Culinary instructional assistant Angel Chau said, “We know it may be difficult for some students to find affordable dinners for Valentine’s Day. So we hope people take advantage of this opportunity for a fine dining, five course meal at an affordable price.” Science major Justine Carino said she and her boyfriend usually spends a lot on dates so the price is no issue and the food sounds good. The experiences they gain from working Aqua Terra events usually end up mirroring professional workplace environments and help prepare the students for real careers on kitchen staffs.
campusbeat
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WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 2.13.2019 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE
I’ve already seen other veterans utilize her to get help with their educational plans and everything else.” — Zachary Frappier, veteran
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ENROLLMENT MANAGMENT ACADEMY TO HELP ADMIN Program set to analyze, improve scheduling process By Jose Arebalo scene editor
jarebalo.theadvocate@gmail.com
EFRAIN VALDEZ / THE ADVOCATE
TeJae Dunnivant is the college’s new veterans’ coordinator this semester after the position remained vacant for nearly a year.
Veterans’ coordinator brings experience, hope Position filled after nearly a year of being vacant By Efrain Valdez sports editor
evaldez.theadvocate@gmail.com
After a prolonged period without a veterans’ outreach coordinator, Contra Costa College hired TeJae Dunnivant to fill that void at the start of the 2019 spring semester. The position was open for nearly a year after Dedan Kimathi Ji Jaga resigned as the coordinator last spring. This hire comes as a relief to the student-veterans on campus who were hoping that someone with a military and mental health background like Dunnivant would be brought in. After a year that saw campus veterans coming together and pleading to the administration for the support they had been promised in the past, the hire is a welcomed move. “It feels like this is the work that I’m meant to do,” Dunnivant said. “One veteran here explained to me that he was very happy that I was able to walk
him over to get one of his questions answered. He said that he would have never waited in that line at Admissions and Records. For veterans, it’s a different situation (than for a typical student),” she said. In the short time that she has been here, the veterans have noticed positive changes taking place in the Veterans Resource Center. Dean of Student Services Dennis Franco said that in short time Dunnivant has been here he has enjoyed working with her. “We thought somebody like her was going to be perfect for the position, she has already asked the right things when asking questions about the job,” he said. CCC Veterans Club member Zachary Frappier said even though he hasn’t spoken to Dunnivant much yet, he is glad that she is a person who can relate to veteran concerns. Frappier said that he always sees Dunnivant around the VRC and that having her presence there is something that has been missed. “I’ve already seen other veterans utilize her to get help with their educational plans and everything else,” Frappier said. “She is super approachable.” Frappier said that he’s has seen
Dunnivant in and around the VRC and making her presence known within the veteran populous at CCC. “It’s good knowing that you have someone here who is actually in their office, communicating with us and who understands our needs regarding transferring to a four-year university,” he said. Dunnivant is not necessarily new to this campus, as she did outreach for UC Berkeley on campus in the past. “I was the outreach person for UC Berkeley, so I had a chance to visit this campus a couple of times,” she said. Dunnivant said that she originally applied for a different position on campus, which she did not end up getting. However, navigating the process led her to apply for the open coordinator’s spot. Dunnivant said she is more experienced with veterans affairs because of her experience at the community college she attended. “I started working with the student veterans at my community college. Then, when I went to UC Berkeley, it was automatic that I was going to be working with the student veterans there.”
An outside team of enrollment consultants focusing on strategic management is helping campus administrators plan for next semester and also the larger goal of increasing student success. Contra Costa College was accepted as one of 15 schools to participate in the program after submitting a proposal to the Strategic Enrollment Management Academy. “As a college, we want to offer a robust schedule of classes to ensure our students are able to get the courses that they need and complete their educational goals,” CCC President Katrina VanderWoude said. “It’s important that the right mix of classes is offered to help students stay on track.” Dr. VanderWoude is not the Kincade only administrator on campus who is passionate about helping students. Interim Vice President of Student Affairs Susan Kincade said, “We as an administration want to make the process as easy as possible for students. “Enrollment management is multidimensional and involves so Anderson much more than schedules.” Success in this aspect of college planning means providing proper instruction and services to students. Kincade said ensuring that all services and classes a student needs are offered is part of the administration’s responsibility. So far, services have been readily made available to students as they were needed. Research needs to be done on the numbers of students, staff, classroom sizes and declared educational tracks for administrators to make an informed decision, she said. Interim Vice President of Student Services Carsbia Anderson said, “I think that the program has created great discussions.” He said getting people to talk about enrollment management was one of the motivating factors toward joining the academy. At any point, the primary focus of campus administrators is to ensure that services are given to students, something Anderson said is entirely covered. “When the Student Services Building was down (due to a power outage), the staff made pop-up shops to continue helping students,” he said. Campus faculty and staff have continuously given their best efforts to support the student community. From the very beginning of the semester, the Welcome Center in the SC Center has been very busy, Anderson said.
HBCU CARAVAN COMES TO CAMPUS CENTER PLAZA Representatives waive n “This event is very important. It gives students an opportunity application fees, accept for exposure to HBCUs. This event is an awesome way for students students on the spot to see their options.”
By Jessica Suico
— Natasha Lockett, counselor
news editor
jsuico.theadvocate@gmail.com
Beats, information and love carried through Campus Center Plaza Feb. 6 to showcase the unique culture and educational opportunities Historically Black Colleges and Universities offer students at the HBCU Caravan event. Over 25 HBCU representatives from all over the country attended this event, which gave students the chance to meet with college representatives and fill out applications. More importantly, many of the schools were accepting students on the spot and offering scholarships. African-American studies major Elisha Patterson said, “I applied to Hampton University, Spelman College, Alabama State University and Virginia State University. I hope to get accepted to all of them, so I can make a choice on where exactly to go.” Patterson came to the HBCU Caravan event because she wanted to see the opportunities offered by the colleges she applied to and to help her decide on a school to attend. Patterson got a lot of the resources and information she needed while at the event. “I am very happy to see this caravan here on campus and all the hard work it took to have the opportunity here for myself and other students,” she said. Film major Terra Wilson said, “HBCUs
are different from other colleges. It’s nice to have a comfortable welcoming place for my people.” To Wilson, the programs, sororities and the huge homecoming celebrations really stand out when compared to other colleges. Wilson has already been accepted to Texas State University and also applied to Dillard University and Howard University. Wilson said, “There are a lot of stereotypes placed on black people and I think most people fail to realize that a lot of us are knowledgeable and powerful. Not all of my people are gang bangers or drug addicts. We have a lot to offer people and society. “I feel people don’t realize that HBCUs aren’t just for black people. They are for all people of color,” Wilson said. Mills College of Oakland took part in the event and had a table out during the caravan. Academic advisers Mario Astro and Karen Ponce from Mills were also there to get information and knowledge about HBCUs and the caravan for their students. “We are here to recruit students and to provide information about our college and the programs we offer,” Astro said. Ponce said, “We have some of our students from Mills College here getting information about the HBCUs.” Contra Costa College counselor Natasha Lockett said, “This event is very important.
MICHAEL SANTONE / THE ADVOCATE
Two students discuss the application and transfer process with Benedict College representative during the HBCU Caravan at the Campus Center Plaza on Feb. 6.
It gives the students exposure to HBCUs. Unfortunately, in California we don’t have any HBCUs. This event is an awesome way for the students to see their options.” “This event brings awareness about HBCUs and black culture. It shows that there are amazing opportunities for my cul-
ture and it’s a great feeling to have these opportunities,” Patterson said. Many HBCUs have a partnership with the state, which allows them to do caravans at certain schools and colleges, giving students in California exposure to schools that many of them would not otherwise consider.
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focus
WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 2.13.2019 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE
Appetizer cook-off satisfies
(LEFT) Food was served in a buffet style lineup featuring appetizers created by culinary teams during the Iron Chef: Appetizer Battle in the Aqua Terra Grill Thursday.
Photos by: Marshique West For
more photos, please visit our website: www.cccadvocate.com
Culinary arts majors (left to right) Karandeep Rekhi, Alanna Covell, Donnie Cooper, and Heather Banvelos celebrate their team’s victory during the Iron Chef: Appetizer Battle in the Aqua Terra Grill Thursday.
San Pablo residents eat the competitors’ dishes in the Aqua Terra Grill at the Iron Chef: Appetizer Battle Thursday.
Culinary arts major Antonietta Austin prepares patties for chicken sliders during the Iron Chef: Appetizer Battle in the Aqua Terra Grill Thursday.
(RIGHT) Culinary arts major Mariah Padilla prepares mini savory galettes at Thursday’s cooking competition at the Aqua Terra Grill.
sports
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COMETS SOAR IN OVERTIME
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■ OFF THE RECORD
joelumanzor
SPORTS MENTALITY SHIFTS AS FREE MARKET THRIVES
I
XAVIER JOHNSON / THE ADVOCATE
Comet guard Isaiah Attles drives baseline past Eagle forward Bymnet Tecle during the Comets’ 97-92 double overtime victory on Friday in the Gymnasium.
Squad outlasts Eagles in double overtime thriller By Joel Umanzor sports editor
jumanzor.theadvocate@gmail.com
The men’s basketball team (1114 overall and 7-6 in the Bay Valley Conference) outlasted the Mendocino Eagles (15-9 overall and 6-6 in the BVC) in double overtime to win a critical conference matchup 97-92 on Friday night in the Gymnasium. The Comets strung together their second win in a row and first win at home in almost a month in a thriller against a scrappy Eagle squad that pushed the game beyond regulation. Mendocino College and CCC both came into the game vying for playoff positioning going into this final stretch of the BVC play. “I tip my hat to Mendo. They
played a hell of a game,” Comet coach Miguel Johnson said. “We had a lot of miscues and mental lapses, but when we needed a play we got it done.” The Comets owned the tiebreaker from the team’s win at Mendocino early in January making the game intense and significant toward maintaining pace in conference. After leading by three points at halftime, the Comets came out of the locker room flat and played unusually sloppy defense to open the half allowing Mendocino to hit their first two three pointers. The defensive lapse set the tone for what would be a close game down the stretch. Critical shots made by freshman guard Elijah Canales kept the Comets within striking distance throughout the second half. He and the other freshman players have had increased roles within the team as of late. Johnson said, “You know we got some freshman in there during big games down the stretch and
sometimes the moment might be a little too big for them, but we are learning.” The Comets focus will be tested again in conference play tonight at 6 p.m. when they travel to play Napa Valley College (3-9). Canales said, “The coaching staff wants me to space the floor and defend.” Although they had the extra guard help, the Comets didn’t make putting the game away any easier on themselves. COMETS After a back and forth second half, the Comets found themselves EAGLES down two points without the ball with mere seconds remaining. This following a missed layup by guard Evan Thompson forced CCC to foul the Eagles to stop the clock with 13.5 seconds to play. Mendocino made one of two
97 92
shots and led by three points, but gave the Comets one last opportunity to extend the game. After a missed shot, Thompson was fouled on a 3-point attempt and was sent to the free throw line with 2.6 seconds remaining in the game. Thompson said, “Before I went to the free throw line my team just told me that they trusted me. They also wanted me to know that I was going to take it to overtime, so we could win.” Thompson hit on all three free throw attempts to tie the game at 76 and force overtime. The Eagles wouldn’t go away and kept pace with the scoring of guard Isaiah Attles early in the 5-minute overtime period to force a second overtime. The Comets outlasted the Eagles in the second overtime by making layups and hitting free throws when intentionally fouled. The Eagles failing strategy extended the Comet lead to five points.
Late start on Gym renovation hinders original end goal By Efrain Valdez sports editor
evaldez.theadvocate@gmail.com
Over the winter break, the starting date for the Gymnasium renovations for the upcoming construction project was pushed until after the basketball season. Even though the Gymnasium project did not have a targeted starting date to begin with, most involved were aiming for the winter break period. However, the construction company only began work on the Tennis Courts and around the outside of the Gymnasium, which allowed both the men’s and women’s teams to play their home games on campus rather than the Richmond Auditorium. Both teams had arranged locations to practice during the Gymnasium closure. Athletic Director John Wade said that these kind of things happen during projects like this one. “We have a meeting with the construction guys on Wednesday (today after press time) and we should have an update,” he said. “I’m hoping we can start soon,” Wade said. The athletic department had been preparing for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams to play their current season’s games in the Richmond Auditorium. With the last minute change of plans, both coaches were happy that they could practice on campus but would have liked to play in a facility like the auditorium. Wade said that he would have enjoyed watching the teams play in a big, nice facility like the Richmond Auditorium. “It is easier playing at home; you are familiar with the baskets, court and the fans,” men’s basketball coach Miguel Johnson said. One of the few inconveniences that the coaches and players can face at times is having to take a longer walk to get to the locker rooms. Women’s basketball coach Vincent Shaw said that depending where the construction work is being done on a certain day it will dictate if his team has to take a longer walk to get
EFRAIN VALDEZ / THE ADVOCATE
A construction worker locks the fence surrounding the Gymnasium for renovations.
n “We have a meeting with the
construction guys on Wednesday and we should have an update.” — John Wade, athletic director
to the locker room. “It’s all about the whole picture. It’s just hard to see sometimes, especially with all the work going on,” Shaw said. Both coaches agree that the construction and the closure of the Gymnasium will affect recruiting in the offseason and that they will have to explain to recruits that this is good for the college. Johnson said recruiting would be one of the most affected areas during construction. “I think if you let the kids know, that we do have a place that we consider home and hopefully some of them praise the fact that
we’ll probably be playing the Richmond Auditorium,” he said. Shaw said that he hopes the planned facelift for the Gymnasium will be for the ultimate good of the college. In the April 17, 2018 edition of The Advocate, Contra Costa Community College District Facilities Planner Ray Pyle said that the project would add a lobby to both the Men’s and Women’s locker rooms and to the east side of the Gym, where the new main entrance (of the Gym) will be. Pyle also said that there will be a concession stand and a ticket booth there also. It is unclear if the project will be able to be finished in the planned 18-month span. “We’re just happy to be getting these upgrades for our college,” Wade said. Johnson said that the upcoming meetings would provide everybody with more details about the construction.
magine you are a prized employee who has excelled in every aspect of your industry. Imagine that you have been at one company since you entered this industry and are due for a new contract. Now imagine you have all these positives in your work experience to better negotiate a wage based on your abilities. In the world of the average citizen this is often a good position to find oneself, but in the area of professional sports it’s become a focal point of unmerited, illogical criticism by team ownership, the media and the common fan. Athletes in the professional sphere have always been held to the idea that they have some binding loyalty to the regions and cities which draft or develop them. A perfect example of this reaction was that of Cleveland Cavalier owner Dan Gilbert and the entire city of Cleveland when LeBron James chose to leave his place of employment in Ohio for the beaches of Miami. Gilbert said in a scathing open letter that James had committed a “shameful display of selfishness and betrayal.” But I thought the free market of capitalism dictated otherwise? We are in an economic system that has given the appearance that highly talented individuals are allowed free choice, but when the issue of high-priced athletes come about, the metaphorical goal post gets pushed farther away. In Major League Baseball, the most two prized free agents in this year’s class are still without a team. Both Manny Machado and Bryce Harper are watching from afar as pitchers and catchers report to spring training this week. Many criticize these players for forcing the issue in their compensation, but in all honesty, I can’t see how I would do anything different. Professional sports has grown exponentially since the early to mid 20th century and with the amount of money being generated by teams, the free market dictates players have the freedom to pick and choose their own landing spots. Athletes can’t even make these decisions without the wrath of the sports media raining down on them. Another example has been the drama within the National Basketball Association surrounding the free agency of players such as Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. Instead of focusing on a game in which the Warriors routed the Spurs 141-102, the media wanted to focus on free agency which irked Durant. “You know you don’t care about that,” Durant said regarding questions about the game in the post game conference. And we don’t. Unfortunately, for sports consumers in 2019, the sports conversation is usually less driven by fact and more by theories providing sensational coverage with little substance. Joel Umanzor is a sports editor for The Advocate. Contact him at jumanzor. theadvocate@gmail.com.
spotlight
WWW.CCCADVOCATE.COM 2.13.2019 l WEDNESDAY l THE ADVOCATE
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“ Passion fuels dreams “I’m just the kind of person that keeps going no matter what. I will keep trying something until I get it right.”
— Victoria Lopez, Comet guard
Comet guard struggles in new city, finds solace and pathway toward future accomplishments By Efrain Valdez sports editor
evaldez.theadvocate@gmail.com
JENNA HUSIC , DENIS PEREZ / THE ADVOCATE
Sophomore Victoria Lopez is finishing her final season as a women’s basketball player at Contra Costa College. As one of the longest-tenured players on the current team, she is one of the few players to be here for all three of coach Vince Shaw’s years as coach.
Growing pains that come with becoming an adult can come in many different shapes and sizes. For some people, it takes a comfortable situation for them to succeed. But for others their best path to success could be to take the most difficult road. An argument can be made that people who encounter the harder road to success are the ones who become the most successful people. For Comet guard and third-year sophomore Victoria Lopez, taking the harder road is what brings her success on and off the court. Her dedication to the sport of basketball, her team and education, is shown by the simple fact that she has commuted between Contra Costa College and her hometown of Vacaville for the past three years. “The whole point of me coming to Richmond was to get away from a lot of people out where I grew up,” Lopez said. She took this opportunity to become more independent and learn what life is really about. Lopez spoke about how alone she felt at times by being away from her family because of her heavy schedule. Because of basketball practice, she has to take classes in the morning and evening. The sophomore believes this whole struggle was about growing into an adult. “I didn’t have my parents around the corner if I needed anything. I had to do everything on my own out here. Coming to Richmond and seeing how intense the environment is in this city, compared to where I’m from, was something that helped me grow up,” she said. Women’s basketball coach Vince Shaw said he has known Lopez since she was in high school so seeing her turn into the young woman she is today is refreshing. “It’s good to see them grow up like that. Even when she was a kid and had her ups and downs she always kept moving forward,” Shaw said. Lopez faced many ups and downs in life and on the court. She was cut from a team once, broke her leg and re-injured it.
“When I was out with my injury, I was able to see basketball from a different perspective,” she said. “I was starting to see what my coaches actually meant when they would coach me during games.” For Lopez, one of her biggest off-court difficulties was when she found out the day of her high school graduation that she may not have enough units to actually graduate. “I’m just that kind of person that just keeps going no matter what. I will keep trying something until I get it right. That’s just how I am,” she said. Now she plans on attending a four-year university in the 2019 fall semester to pursue a degree in criminal justice. Freshman teammate Dzeneta Husic said that she appreciates having Lopez because she has provided leadership. “During our game Shaw against Los Medanos College last week, she helped the team in the last few minutes by being confident enough to drive down the lane and help us get a bucket to win the game,” she said. Shaw said that he thinks her personal growth and leadership can be attributed to her work ethic. “It all kind of happened organically for her (Lopez). She just stepped up and took the role. I’m really proud of her,” he said. Lopez gives Shaw a ton of credit for helping her succeed. She credits him for bringing her to play at CCC and allowing her to grow as a player. “He knew how I needed to be coached and I felt comfortable playing for him,” she said. Husic said that Lopez has helped the freshman take on leadership roles. “She’s been someone that wants us to be more confident when taking our shots,” she said. Lopez said that CCC has been the place that allowed her to succeed. “I was able to learn that there are more things to life than being a part of drama. CCC made me stronger.”
Student government seeks rebranding By Cindy Pantoja opinion editor
cpantoja.theadvocate@gmail.com
The Associated Students Union (ASU) began the 2019 spring term with a new president who plans to have a new approach toward student success. The ASU is the student government run by students who represent the interests of students at Contra Costa College. It consists of two branches, the Executive Council (board of student-elected and appointed positions) and the Club Council (board of representatives from all the clubs on campus). Rebecca Hernandez was elected ASU president in December of 2018, after former ASU President Alex Walker-Griffin vacated his post. She ran against ASU Director of Public Relations Preston Akubuo-Onwuemeka during the 2018 election process. “My goal right now is primarily to get the ASU known on campus. That’s my biggest thing right now. I think that we have a lot of great resources and programs for our students, but a lot of them don’t know where they come from.” Hernandez said, “I think it is critical (for students) to be appreciated and respected on campus.” The ASU wants to make sure that everyone on campus knows about student clubs and that as a member of the Associated Students Union, students have the power to Hernandez make positive changes at Contra Costa College. ASU Executive Vice President Laciee Brown said, “Since ASU has a new president, we’ve had a lot of changes. We had an amazing president last semester (Walker-Griffin), but now we have a powerful woman at the forefront of our association who’s representing our organization extremely well. She’s making sure that student representation is on a lot of the committees.” The plan for the ASU this term is to bring more services and events to CCC. In an effort to be more accessible to students, the ASU will be running a rebranding campaign of nearly $16,000. This money will buy things such, table designs, business cards, hoodies and water bottles. “To run any successful business, you need to be able
n “My goal right now is primarily to get the ASU known on campus. That’s my biggest thing right now. I think that we have a lot of great resources and programs for our students.”
—Rebecca Hernandez, ASU president
to have these things to show that you are professional and to show that this is a real organization. If you visit any of our sister colleges, like Los Medanos College or DVC they have brochures, they have gear for their ASU clubs, you know. They have all these resources,” Hernandez said. “They have all these items that are needed in order to be noticed on campus. So, we’re going to get a design pop up for our events. We will be getting a 10-foot by 10-foot custom tent, two backdrop stands in order to be “noticeable” for students at any angle of the campus (during events). In their last meeting with President Katrina VanderWoude and administrators, the ASU advocated for student safety and the right to keep students informed of events that would affect their educational plan. “I feel like there’s a big barrier sometimes between students and professors and faculty because you know, they’re older they’ve already gone through school. Whereas with ASU, it’s student run, so they can come to students and talk to college peers. They can talk to us about things that they’re going through that we might be going through as well,” Hernandez said. During the spring semester, the ASU will continue to use their funding to benefit students. They plan to host motivational speakers and even talent from the Bay Area like Mistah F.A.B. “All these events on campus are mainly organized by the ASU. Our goal is to provide means for students like the Food Pantry, the free breakfasts and things like that,” AkubuoOnwuemeka said.
1. In December the ASU elected Rebecca Hernandez as the union’s newest president 2. The ASU consists of two branches, the Executive Council and Club Council 3. In an effort to boost visibility on campus the ASU will undergo a $16,000 rebranding campaign 4. The campaign is intended to raise awareness of events and services provided by the ASU